The Good House
A quick review of The Good House gives a sample of what the book covers.
Introduction
"The Good House" by Tananarive Due is a gripping horror novel that intertwines themes of family legacy, supernatural forces, and personal redemption. Set in a seemingly idyllic small town in Washington state, the story follows Angela Toussaint, a woman who returns to her family home two years after a tragic event that led to her son's death. As Angela unravels the dark secrets of her family's history and the house's malevolent power, she must confront her past and the ancient forces that threaten to destroy everything she holds dear.
Chapter 1: The House
Angela Toussaint returns to her grandmother’s house in Sacajawea, Washington, for the first time in two years. The house, known locally as "The Good House," has a reputation for bringing good luck, but Angela is haunted by the memory of her son Corey’s death there. Angela’s estranged husband Tariq and her friend Myles accompany her, hoping to support her as she confronts her past.
Chapter 2: The Past
Flashbacks reveal Angela's childhood summers spent with her grandmother, Marie Toussaint, who was known for her healing abilities and connection to the spiritual world. Marie had a deep understanding of Vodou, which she used to help the community, but she also warned Angela about the dangers of misusing such powers.
Chapter 3: Corey
The narrative shifts back to the tragic events two years prior. Angela had thrown a Fourth of July party at the Good House, during which Corey exhibited strange behavior and ultimately committed suicide in the basement. The incident shattered Angela’s life, leading to her separation from Tariq and a move away from Sacajawea.
Chapter 4: Unraveling
Angela begins to experience strange occurrences in the house, feeling an oppressive presence and hearing whispers in the night. She discovers old photographs and letters belonging to her grandmother, hinting at a dark secret tied to the family’s past and the house’s history.
Chapter 5: Secrets
Angela learns about her family’s connection to powerful Vodou spirits and the rituals Marie performed to protect the house. She finds a hidden room in the basement containing ritualistic items and an altar. The discovery suggests that Marie might have summoned something malevolent that still lingers.
Chapter 6: Reawakening
As Angela delves deeper into her grandmother’s past, she realizes that Marie had a falling out with her friend and spiritual mentor, Miss Mamie, over the use of dark magic. Marie had attempted to bind a powerful spirit, Legba, to protect her family, but the ritual went wrong, unleashing a malevolent force.
Chapter 7: The Neighbors
Angela’s presence in Sacajawea begins to stir up old memories and tensions among the townspeople. Some neighbors believe the Good House is cursed, while others remember Marie fondly. Angela meets with her old friend, Desiree, who warns her about the dangers of tampering with the supernatural.
Chapter 8: Tariq’s Doubts
Tariq grows increasingly skeptical of Angela’s investigation into the house’s history, believing she is being consumed by grief and guilt over Corey’s death. His doubts strain their already fragile relationship, but he remains by her side out of loyalty and concern.
Chapter 9: Hauntings
Supernatural events escalate, with Angela experiencing vivid nightmares and apparitions of Corey. Objects move on their own, and the house’s atmosphere becomes increasingly oppressive. Angela realizes she must confront the entity that has taken hold of the Good House.
Chapter 10: The Return
Angela decides to perform a cleansing ritual to rid the house of its dark presence. With the help of Desiree and Myles, she gathers the necessary materials and prepares for the ritual. Tariq reluctantly agrees to participate, hoping it will bring Angela peace.
Chapter 11: The Ritual
The cleansing ritual is intense and dangerous, with the entity resisting their efforts. Angela confronts the spirit of Legba, demanding it to leave her family in peace. The ritual culminates in a violent confrontation, with the house itself seeming to come alive.
Chapter 12: The Aftermath
The ritual leaves Angela physically and emotionally drained, but the oppressive presence in the house dissipates. She feels a sense of closure regarding Corey’s death, believing that his spirit can now rest. Tariq and Angela reconcile, finding solace in each other’s support.
Chapter 13: New Beginnings
Angela decides to stay in Sacajawea and renovate the Good House, hoping to transform it into a place of healing and community once again. She reconnects with her roots and begins to embrace her grandmother’s legacy, using her knowledge of Vodou to help others.
Chapter 14: The Legacy
The novel concludes with Angela hosting a gathering at the newly restored Good House, symbolizing a new beginning for her and the community. She reflects on the importance of understanding and respecting the past while forging a path forward, acknowledging the enduring strength of family and the power of redemption.
Conclusion
"The Good House" by Tananarive Due is a compelling blend of horror and family drama that explores the complexities of heritage, grief, and the supernatural. Through Angela’s journey, the novel delves into the dark corners of human experience and the enduring power of love and resilience. The story serves as a reminder of the importance of confronting one’s past to pave the way for a better future, all while keeping the reader on the edge of their seat with its chilling and suspenseful narrative.
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About the Creator
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