Readers describe "Maynard's House" as a novel that blurs genres, combining elements of psychological drama, horror, paranormal fantasy, and historical adventures. The story follows Austin, a Vietnam war veteran who inherits Maynard's house in rural Maine, leading to a tale filled with suspense, supernatural occurrences, and a sense of isolation. The writing style is praised for its poetic and imaginative metaphors that bring mundane details to life, creating a literary experience that keeps readers engaged and questioning the boundaries between reality and the supernatural.

Characters:

The characters, especially the protagonist Austin and the supporting cast, are well-developed, with genuine relationships that evoke a sense of tenderness amidst the humor.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style features cultural references and a tendency to be long-winded, reminiscent of Stephen King, but also incorporates genuine emotional depth.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot features a combination of comedy and horror elements, primarily focusing on a Vietnam veteran grappling with trauma and isolation after inheriting a haunted house, culminating in an abrupt twist.

Setting:

The setting is a snowbound, isolated house in rural Maine, which enhances the atmosphere of solitude and dread.

Pacing:

The pacing is often described as a slow burn, with initial little tension, leading up to a more intense climax towards the end, which may frustrate some readers.

The train aimed itself devotedly along, nudging snow from the beckoning rails while the vanishing point ahead kept retreating like a playful Lorelei. On straightaways the engine displayed a joyful con...

Notes:

The protagonist, Austin, is a Vietnam War veteran with PTSD.

Austin inherits a house in rural Maine from his deceased friend Maynard, who was killed in action.

The house is stocked with food and firewood, despite being vacant for two years.

The story combines elements of comedy, romance, and horror, often feeling like a slow burn until the end.

There are quirky, comic interactions between Austin and the colorful locals.

The novel includes creepy elements such as a witch tree and spooky noises at night.

Herman Raucher's writing style has been compared to that of Stephen King.

The novel raises unsettling themes involving the protagonist's attraction to a younger character, raising concerns about age dynamics in relationships.

The ending is described as unexpected and thought-provoking, leaving readers to question reality and the supernatural elements of the story.

'Maynard's House' blends various genres, including psychological drama and horror, making it a unique read.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Triggers/content warnings include sexual themes involving an underage character and depictions of trauma stemming from war.

From The Publisher:

"An unsettling experience. C]onfounding, touching and well-written." -THE NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW

Austin Fletcher, a disturbed young Vietnam War vet, is willed a small house deep in the woods of northern Maine. He comes to own it by the generosity of a brother-in-arms-a fellow soldier and confidante, Maynard Whittier, killed in action by a wayward mortar shell. The rugged landscape of Maine is an intoxicating blend of claustrophobic interiors and endless frozen wastelands. Little by little, the mysterious force in the house asserts itself until Austin isn't exactly sure what is in his mind and what is real. And just when our hero's had enough and is ready to quit the place, a blizzard arrives and the real haunting begins.

Ratings (2)

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Reader Stats (13):

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Maynard's House

Herman Raucher