A Dive into Darkness: Review of Unspeakable Things by Jess Lourey
It’s funny how some books call out to you more than others, isn’t it? Unspeakable Things by Jess Lourey found its way into my hands not just because of its gripping premise but also due to the hint of nostalgia tied to its 1980s Minnesota setting. Having grown up in a small town surrounded by whispers and secrets, I was curious to see how Lourey would weave her tale of suspense, inspired by true events from her own hometown. And boy, it did not disappoint!
At its heart, Unspeakable Things follows Cassie McDowell, a perceptive twelve-year-old navigating the complexities of adolescence while her seemingly innocent world on a Minnesota farm slowly unravels. Lourey expertly sets the stage, drawing us into a community where childhood innocence collides with sinister realities. One chilling detail that resonates throughout the book is Cassie’s background—a loving but tumultuous home, where her parents entertain a parade of questionable guests. The complexity of Cassie’s life amplifies when local boys go missing and return significantly changed, prompting a cascade of fear, rumors, and the dark secrets lodged in every corner of Lilydale.
Lourey’s writing is undoubtedly one of the book’s highlights. The prose is lyrical yet stark, successfully capturing the innocence and confusion of childhood amidst chaos. Lines like, “I jumped so high that I left my skin behind,” showcase a perfect balance between childlike wonder and unsettling imagery. The emotional landscape is wrought with tension and foreboding, propelling us forward as we root for Cassie while also holding our breath—wondering what she might uncover.
However, it’s not all smooth sailing. Some readers may argue that the pacing feels uneven at times, with certain sections speeding ahead while others linger too long on atmospheric details. For me, the slow moments felt necessary; they built a sense of dread and a foreground for the underlying mysteries unfolding in Lilydale. Every subtle hint Cassie drops about her home life offers an unsettling provocation for the imagination—just enough to evoke shivers without explicit detail.
What left a particularly profound impression was the role of Cassie’s family dynamics. While the external threats in the town are alarming, it’s the internal monsters—symbolized by Cassie’s father—that make this story haunting on multiple levels. The juxtaposition of what lives underneath her own roof versus what lurks outside is chilling. Through Cassie’s eyes, we inherit a brilliant yet disturbing observation about the nature of fear and survival, echoes of which linger long after finishing the last page.
In conclusion, Unspeakable Things is a compelling read that straddles the line between psychological thriller and coming-of-age tale. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy a dark narrative that explores themes of innocence lost, family secrets, and the very nature of evil. While the epilogue may leave some questions in the air, it beautifully complements the enigmatic journey Lourey navigates, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions. I found myself not just immersed in the story but introspective afterward, reflecting on the different shades of darkness we live with, both in our communities and within ourselves.
If you’re looking for a book that keeps you on your toes while inviting deep personal reflection, Jess Lourey’s Unspeakable Things is undoubtedly a choice that should not be overlooked! Happy reading!