Candy House by Kate Jonez

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Title: Candy House

Author: Kate Jonez

Genre: Horror, Dark Fantasy

Length: 335 pages

Published: 2013

Publisher: Evil Jester Press

Brief Synopsis: (Taken from Goodreads) A brilliant young scientist moves back home with his parents because his explosive temper has ruined his career. His neighbors, a family of witches, imps and demons, are charged with keeping science under control. They must, by using their debauched and twisted magic, stop Roland before he fulfills his destiny and makes a deadly discovery that will change the nature of humanity forever.

My Review:

I give this book a 4 out of 5. 

I received a free e-book copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. 

When I first started reading this, I wasn't 100% sure I was going to like it. It was confusing and seemed almost disjointed. I persevered, because A) I can't leave a book unfinished and B) I was truly interested in the story from the beginning despite my initial confusion. This is dark fantasy, bordering on horror, and definitely not for children or the faint of heart. 

Roland hits rock bottom and returns to live with his parents. He has this new scientific theory that he has published. He is denied the grant that he needs to do the research on his theory. Not much is mentioned of exactly what the theory is until probably about 75% into the book. As I stated before the book seemed disjointed, as you bounce from scene to scene, character to character, and only get small hints on exactly what is going on. Flashbacks are inserted in seemingly random places, but they help develop the intricate story of witches, imps, and demons whose duty it is to destroy scientists before they make their big discoveries. They use devious tricks, charms, and debauchery to halt these scientists in their tracks. 

Hesperia is the woman next door who is imprisoned in her home until she completes her punishment: to destroy three scientists. Roland is the third. Yet, Hesperia has her reasons for trying to save Roland. 

Julia is a troubled young woman who Roland's mother brings home as she is Julia's godmother. At the time, Julia seems like a random person just sort of thrown into the story. As time goes on, you begin to see how important she truly is.

None of the characters are 'good'. Roland's parents both seem quite a bit off-kilter and Roland, himself, has a dark side that comes out from time to time. 

The ending was perfect for a dark fantasy novel. I won't say too much more because I don't want to ruin it for anyone. I really did enjoy the story. The disjointedness that I sensed early on began to make sense. It was truly the perfect way to show Roland's descent into madness.

You can purchase Candy House through Amazon in either hard copy or Kindle format. 

Have you read Candy House? If so, leave a comment and let me know your thoughts! 

Please note: I was not compensated in any way for this review. It is strictly my opinion.