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A review by katiedreads
White Smoke by Tiffany D. Jackson
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
I wasn't sure I was going to like this, young adult horror? But with the promotions mentioning The Haunting of Hill House meets Get Out I was interested. This was a 3.75 for me. The Haunting of Hill House I get that but the Get Out is less so (squinting yes I can see it, but that was actually the least successful part of this book). I think this had some great elements, the past drug use set the tone of distrust within the family and gave a basis for doubting and dismissing the main character. The past trauma added emotive undercurrents that made the family dynamic more strained but understandable. Mixed with moving, family conflict, money, and trust issues all put into a 'haunted house' it is a good base. I also think, the writing was great and the pacing good. But the bed bug issue just annoyed me, the creepy factor and atmosphere were there without the bed bugs and I think that should have been removed in editing, I understand the body horror issue TDJ was trying to add but it was too much. I think this was a case of TDJ had a great plot, characters, atmosphere but less is better than more. Also with a different ending, this could have been 4.5 stars. But still, worth your time I think most people would enjoy it.