Violet
A quick review of Violet gives a sample of what the book covers.
Introduction
Violet by Scott Thomas is a gripping psychological horror novel that delves into themes of grief, trauma, and the haunting power of memory. The story follows Kris Barlow, a woman seeking solace in a familiar place after the devastating loss of her husband. Accompanied by her young daughter, Sadie, Kris returns to her childhood lake house in Kansas, hoping to find peace and healing. However, as they settle in, the sinister presence of an imaginary friend from Kris’s past begins to resurface, leading to chilling discoveries and a confrontation with buried secrets.

Chapter 1: Return to Lost Lake
Kris Barlow and her eight-year-old daughter, Sadie, travel to Lost Lake, a remote and idyllic location in Kansas where Kris spent her childhood summers. Kris hopes the lake house, left vacant since her mother’s death, will provide a fresh start after her husband's untimely death in a car accident. As they arrive, the familiar sights of the lake and surrounding woods evoke memories of Kris’s past, some comforting and others unsettling. Sadie is initially reluctant to stay, but Kris reassures her that this retreat will help them heal.
Chapter 2: An Eerie Welcome
The lake house is in disrepair, neglected after years of abandonment. While exploring the house, Kris discovers old photos and trinkets that remind her of summers spent with her childhood friend, Violet. Kris is surprised when Sadie mentions an imaginary friend she has made, echoing Kris’s own experience with Violet. The sense of nostalgia quickly turns eerie as Kris begins to experience strange occurrences in the house, from inexplicable noises to unsettling dreams.
Chapter 3: Violet's Influence
Kris grows increasingly disturbed by Sadie's obsession with her imaginary friend, who Sadie insists is named Violet. The imaginary friend becomes a dominating influence on Sadie’s behavior, causing concern for Kris. Kris’s memories of her relationship with Violet surface, bringing with them a sense of dread. She recalls how, as a child, Violet had been a comforting presence during her lonely summers at the lake, but also remembers the strange and sinister incidents that accompanied Violet’s presence.

Chapter 4: Haunting Memories
Kris’s unease deepens as she explores the surrounding woods and the lake, where she encounters familiar landmarks and memories of her past. She meets locals who remember her from childhood, and their cryptic remarks about her imaginary friend raise more questions. Kris becomes increasingly aware of a haunting presence in the house, as objects move on their own and Sadie’s behavior becomes more erratic. Kris’s dreams become vivid and disturbing, revealing fragments of her childhood that she had long suppressed.
Chapter 5: Unraveling the Past
Determined to uncover the truth about her childhood and Violet, Kris searches for answers in the town’s history and local folklore. She learns of tragic events linked to the lake and the house, discovering a pattern of disappearances and mysterious deaths. As Kris delves deeper, she realizes that Violet may be more than just a figment of her imagination and that her past is intricately connected to the dark history of Lost Lake.

Chapter 6: The Confrontation
As the influence of Violet grows stronger, Kris must confront her fears and protect Sadie from the malevolent force. She pieces together the fragmented memories of her childhood, recalling the terrifying events that led her to leave the lake all those years ago. The tension reaches a climax as Kris faces Violet in a chilling confrontation, uncovering the truth behind her imaginary friend and the horrors that have haunted her family for generations.
Chapter 7: The Truth Revealed
In the aftermath of the confrontation, Kris discovers the full extent of Violet's connection to her past and the lake house. The revelation forces Kris to confront her grief and trauma, acknowledging the unresolved issues that have plagued her for years. With newfound clarity, she takes decisive action to break the cycle of terror and free herself and Sadie from Violet's grip. Kris learns to embrace her memories, both good and bad and finds strength in facing her fears head-on.
Summary
Violet is a masterfully crafted psychological horror novel that weaves together elements of mystery, suspense, and supernatural terror. Through Kris’s journey, Scott Thomas explores the depths of human grief and the haunting power of memory. The novel captivates readers with its atmospheric setting, complex characters, and chilling narrative that keeps them on the edge of their seats. As Kris confronts her past and the malevolent force that has haunted her family, she ultimately finds redemption and healing, proving that the courage to face one’s fears is the key to overcoming them.
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Comments (2)
Awesome piece
Well written