So. This book was different from anything I’ve read before. In fact, this is not a book I would naturally gravitate towards. However, after talking with the author at a market and hearing her share a bit of her journey being a newer author, I had to support her. So, here is my review on The House in the Valley.
What it’s About
Okay. How to tell you without giving any spoilers. Let’s see. The House in the Valley is the very first book by Manitoba author, Nicholle Realle. It follows two characters. One is the daughter coping with her mother’s death and trying to move on in life. The other is the mother, whose story is told when her daughter finds her journal and reads it. Both POVs (points of view) are first person, which is different from most books I’ve read. In fact, the only one that comes to mind is American Sniper. However, this book is fiction and based on fictitious characters and destinations. The story also tackles some really hard things like mental illness, abuse, and more. Again, trying really hard not to give away spoilers.
What I Liked About The House in the Valley
The story was very well written, especially in the way that it tackled some of the topics. There were times I found myself feeling strongly for the characters, my heart breaking with theirs. In moments of joy, I was glad for them. It really is an incredible story. Nicholle did really well portraying the one character who was really struggling with mental issues, and making their journey believable. The characters were relatable, in some ways. Obviously, because I have not gone through most of what they have, I can’t relate completely. But there were certainly moments where I was like, “yup. That’s how I would react too.”
What I Disliked
This is tricky. Like I mentioned earlier, this isn’t normally a book that I would read. I bought it to support the author and help get her name out there. Because it isn’t my usual read, I didn’t enjoy reading it. There were times where I didn’t think one of the characters was getting enough story time, and the other story was dominating. However, that could have been the whole point. There were also some scenes of the sexual nature that I didn’t enjoy. For the most part, it was just personal preference that kept me from fully enjoying the book rather than the book itself, if that makes sense?
The House in the Valley Rating
Overall, I gave the book a 4 star rating. The House in the Valley is a great story and Nicholle did an incredible job telling it. It was just personal preference that kept me from giving this a 5 star. Would I recommend this book? Yes, but with some trigger warnings as it does talk about some really hard and dark things. Be prepared when you read to poke your head into places that you don’t want to be in. Let’s just say that physical abuse is not the worst thing that happens to people in this book. But, overall, a very well written book.
Next?
I am very excited to announce that I’m back in the Orphan X series and reading the second book now. I had it on hold as I really wanted to read The House in the Valley first and get this review out there. As I mentioned, I want to help this author get her name out there. This is her first book and I believe her second book is coming out near the end of summer. Will I read it? Possibly. One thing that I’m learning is local authors need to support one another. Even though I have not published, yet, I want that mindset. After all, I would want someone to help me out when I publish. You can find Nicholle’s book on Amazon and a few book stores. Sorry, I don’t have the names of those stores. Nicholle also attends some markets around Manitoba, so keep an eye out for her there. Now, I have my own books to work on, so I can publish. After all, anything can happen, but only if I try.
