The Haunting of Hounds Hollow

Gr 4–6—Lucas Trainer isn't happy about his family leaving the city he loves to move to an inherited house in the country. His parents are excited and hope moving will help the serious lung condition that plagues Lucas. Upon arrival, the Trainers soon discover there isn't anything ordinary about the town of Hounds Hollow or their new home, Sweetwater Mansion. Filled with dusty rooms, secret passages, doors that lead nowhere, zombie-like construction workers, and strange scratching sounds, the house seems to have a life of its own. Along with two new friends, Bess and Lens, Lucas finds courage he didn't know he had and sets out to solve the mystery of the mansion and its surrounding woods. Realizing that his ancestor, Silas, is the key, Lucas delves into family history and uncovers some secrets and terrifying truths that affect his family and the greater community. Can he right the wrongs of the past and ensure everyone a safe and peaceful future? The first third of the book is somewhat slow moving, as readers are introduced to the major players and the stage is set for the otherworldly happenings to come. The rest of the book flies by, steadily building suspense and rewarding readers who stick with it. Truly creepy and quite scary in parts, the book is also about forging friendships, overcoming obstacles, and earning trust.