Et cetera : Book Review: The House at the end of Hope Street

The House at the end of Hope Street by Menna Van Praag

I read this quirky book in a weekend. It was quick and easy, but with some dark undertones. The first page caught my attention with some very descriptive language about a mysterious, shadowy house that people can only see if they need the house. And Alba needs the house. The older lady who answers the door has some very strict rules, including the one that states that a visitor can only stay for ninety-nine nights.

About half-way through this book, it occurred to me to wonder if the title of the book referred to "Hope Street" or "End of Hope" Street. Each person that finds herself at this house has strongly considered, or even attempted, suicide, thinking that there was no future for her.

When not-yet-twenty-year-old Alba arrives unexpectedly at the door, unsure of how or why she got there, there are two other occupants, also searching for answers. In addition, Peggy owns the house, left to her by a relative; Stella, a ghost who is nearly always sitting in the kitchen sink; and a myriad of photographs that talk, laugh, and interact with the others in the house.

This book is full of twists and turns, sudden revelations, and concludes with all of the characters happy with the outcome of their second chances. I wish I could revisit them in a few years to see if they were any happier than they were when they arrived at The House at the End of Hope Street. I read this book on the Libby app.

Happy reading!

~ Connie