I received a copy of this book from the publisher Parliament House Press on Net Galley. To me this book is suitable for ages 13-16 or above if you are into these types of books. This was my first “horror” book I’ve read. It wasn’t really scary but it was definitely different. The book references Rachel resembling Winona Ryder in Beetlejuice and that reference followed me during the entire read. I feel like this book was inspired by Beetlejuice. Rachel seems like your average immature 16 year old girl that has been through tragedies that not many face at the ripe age of 16. She definitely has unresolved issues that are present throughout the book that are most noticeable with the way she treats and speaks with others. Based on the description of the book, while reading you will make inferences about what is going to happen. But I can tell you, you will be wrong. I was definitely wrong and was not expecting what happened. Give this book a read and see if you would like to visit Morgan House.

I’m not big on teen/young adult books anymore but there was something about the synopsis of this book that really pulled me in. In The Keeper of the Key we meet Rachel, a 16 year old who is being dragged out of her town to go live with her mom’s new boyfriend in a big creepy house. The thing is, it’s not just any house; Rachel hears, sees and feels paranormal entities that won’t leave her alone.
The writing felt very eery and magical at the same time. It was extremely easy to follow the story along, especially because the author keeps playing with the readers curiosity to find out what’s happening inside the house.
I feel like some readers might find Rachel a tad bit annoying but her way of thinking and doing things felt extremely real. The character resembles a real life teenage girl and i could feel my inner 16 year old relating to Rachel a lot.
The story in itself is very interesting. We learn more about the town, the people and the house as the book takes us on a spooky ride. I would’ve enjoyed it more if the horror aspect shined a bit more, some scenes felt a bit bland and repetitive, but i can understand the decision - after all, it’s meant to be read and enjoyed by teens too.
I definitely recommend The Keeper of the Key to gothic horror fans who want something a little tamer but still fun nonetheless.

Nicole Willson’s *The Keeper of the Key* is a masterful contemporary Gothic novel that blends supernatural elements with domestic horror, creating a suspenseful and chilling read that keeps you on edge. Following the success of her Bram Stoker Award-nominated *Tidepool*, Willson delivers a gripping narrative that dives deep into themes of trust, control, and the eerie unknown.

The story centers around sixteen-year-old Rachel, whose life is upended when her mother decides to move into Morgan House, an old and dilapidated mansion owned by her mother’s boyfriend, Geoff. The transition from her familiar life and friends to the isolation of St. Mary, Virginia, is a difficult adjustment for Rachel. Her reluctance is compounded by Geoff’s stringent rules, particularly his inexplicable prohibition against entering the basement.

Morgan House itself is a character in its own right—creepy and enigmatic, with a dark history that Rachel begins to uncover. The mansion’s sinister nature manifests in strange and terrifying ways, with Rachel experiencing nightmarish visions and being inexplicably drawn to the forbidden cellar. The haunting imagery and foreboding atmosphere created by Willson are particularly effective, enhancing the novel’s Gothic tone.

Rachel is a compelling protagonist, characterized by her bravery and determination. Her struggle to adapt to her new life, coupled with her growing curiosity about the house's dark secrets, drives the narrative forward. Willson crafts Rachel’s journey with depth and emotional resonance, making her confrontation with the supernatural elements of Morgan House both personal and poignant.

The tension in *The Keeper of the Key* is skillfully built, with each revelation adding layers to the mystery of the mansion and its connection to Rachel’s visions. The plot twists and turns in unexpected ways, maintaining a relentless pace that keeps readers eagerly turning pages. The tragic events that unfold further intensify the sense of dread, leading to a climax that is both surprising and satisfyingly eerie.

Willson’s writing is atmospheric and evocative, with a knack for creating vivid and unsettling imagery that lingers long after the book is closed. The juxtaposition of the mundane and the supernatural is handled with finesse, ensuring that the Gothic elements enhance rather than overshadow the emotional and psychological depth of the story.

*The Keeper of the Key* is a haunting and thought-provoking novel that will appeal to fans of Gothic horror and psychological suspense. Nicole Willson has crafted a narrative that is both chilling and engaging, with a fierce heroine and a chillingly atmospheric setting. This novel is a must-read for anyone who enjoys their horror with a side of deep emotional impact and a touch of the supernatural.

This book, which has a fantastic cover, is a great introduction for YA readers to the gothic horror/haunted house genre. Morgan House is super creepy and there are some great haunting scenes in this one. Also has a great lesson to just tell the freaking truth to people and don’t be a jerk, unlike all of the male characters in this book. Fast read, spooky fun.