Daisy Pearce’s novel, Something in the Walls, emerges as a compelling addition to the horror genre, intertwining psychological tension with elements of folklore and the supernatural. Set against the backdrop of a sweltering British heatwave, the narrative delves into themes of grief, trauma, and the unsettling mysteries lurking within a secluded village.
Plot Overview
The story centers on Mina, a newly qualified child psychologist struggling to find her footing in a field dominated by seasoned experts. Her days are monotonously spent enduring the oppressive heat and grappling with uncertainties surrounding her impending marriage to Oscar, a meticulous researcher. Mina’s sole respite is her participation in a local bereavement group, a space where she seeks solace following the tragic death of her younger brother years prior.
During one of these sessions, Mina encounters Sam Hunter, a journalist attending the group under the pretense of mourning his deceased wife. In reality, Sam is on the hunt for a sensational story to rejuvenate his career. He introduces Mina to the case of Alice, a teenager from the isolated village of Banathel, who claims to be haunted by a witch residing within the walls of her home. Intrigued and eager to apply her skills, Mina agrees to accompany Sam to Banathel, envisioning an opportunity to aid Alice and gain practical experience.
Upon their arrival, Mina and Sam are met with a community steeped in superstition and a deep-seated mistrust of outsiders. The villagers’ beliefs in witchcraft and their unconventional methods of addressing perceived evil present significant challenges to Mina’s attempts to diagnose and treat Alice’s condition. As Alice’s behavior grows increasingly erratic and disturbing, Mina is compelled to confront not only the enigmatic forces at play but also her own unresolved past.
Atmospheric Setting and Tone
Pearce masterfully crafts an atmosphere thick with tension and unease. The depiction of the relentless heatwave serves to amplify the sense of discomfort and claustrophobia experienced by the characters. The village of Banathel, with its insular community and archaic traditions, becomes a character in its own right, embodying the pervasive dread that permeates the narrative. This setting effectively mirrors the internal turmoil of the protagonists, blurring the lines between external threats and personal demons.
Character Development
Mina’s journey is at the heart of the novel, her character meticulously developed to reflect a blend of professional ambition and personal vulnerability. Her interactions with Alice not only serve to unravel the mystery at hand but also force Mina to confront her own grief and guilt associated with her brother’s death. Sam, though initially portrayed as opportunistic, reveals layers of complexity as his own motivations and past traumas come to light. Alice stands out as a particularly compelling figure; her portrayal oscillates between victim and conduit for malevolent forces, keeping both the characters and readers in a state of uncertainty regarding the true nature of the horrors she faces.
Themes and Symbolism
Something in the Walls delves deep into the exploration of grief and its manifestations. Mina’s unresolved sorrow over her brother’s demise parallels Alice’s torment, suggesting that unaddressed trauma can give rise to both psychological and supernatural disturbances. The novel also examines the impact of isolation—both physical, as seen in Banathel’s seclusion, and emotional, as experienced by the characters ensnared by their personal losses. Folklore and superstition are woven throughout the narrative, serving as both a source of fear and a lens through which the characters interpret their experiences.
Reception and Critique
The novel has garnered attention for its ability to evoke genuine fear and maintain suspense. Reviewers have lauded Pearce’s skill in creating a “harrowing and moving” tale, with scenes that linger in the reader’s mind long after the final page. The prose is described as “razor-edged,” effectively capturing the oppressive atmosphere and the characters’ escalating paranoia. However, some critiques point to a meandering middle section and an ending that, while intense, may not fully resolve all thematic threads introduced earlier in the story. Despite these minor reservations, the consensus acknowledges Pearce’s talent in delivering a chilling and thought-provoking narrative.
Conclusion
Something in the Walls stands as a testament to Daisy Pearce’s prowess in blending psychological depth with elements of traditional horror. The novel’s rich characterizations, atmospheric setting, and exploration of profound themes render it a noteworthy read for enthusiasts of the genre. It challenges readers to question the nature of reality, the weight of personal grief, and the extent to which folklore can shape and distort human experience.
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