In the House of Night


Fiction - Mystery - Sleuth
430 Pages
Reviewed on 09/22/2020
Buy on Amazon

This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Free Book Program, which is open to all readers and is completely free. The author will provide you with a free copy of their book in exchange for an honest review. You and the author will discuss what sites you will post your review to and what kind of copy of the book you would like to receive (eBook, PDF, Word, paperback, etc.). To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email.

This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Review Exchange Program, which is open to all authors and is completely free. Simply put, you agree to provide an honest review an author's book in exchange for the author doing the same for you. What sites your reviews are posted on (B&N, Amazon, etc.) and whether you send digital (eBook, PDF, Word, etc.) or hard copies of your books to each other for review is up to you. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email, and be sure to describe your book or include a link to your Readers' Favorite review page or Amazon page.

This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Donation Program, which was created to help nonprofit and charitable organizations (schools, libraries, convalescent homes, soldier donation programs, etc.) by providing them with free books and to help authors garner more exposure for their work. This author is willing to donate free copies of their book in exchange for reviews (if circumstances allow) and the knowledge that their book is being read and enjoyed. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email. Be sure to tell the author who you are, what organization you are with, how many books you need, how they will be used, and the number of reviews, if any, you would be able to provide.

    Book Review

Reviewed by Tammy Ruggles for Readers' Favorite

In the House of Night by Donald Levin is an edgy mystery novel you won't want to miss. The seventh in the Martin Preuss investigator series, this novel delves into the murder of a mild-mannered history professor, but this is just the beginning of the twists, turns, and secrets that unfold around the investigation. Levin is a pro at crafting intriguing plots, memorable characters, and scenes that will keep you turning pages. Just when you think you know what's going to happen, the author throws you a curveball. This is a contemporary mystery with a classic feel. The story grows more suspenseful with each chapter, with threads of loneliness, family nostalgia, and antisemitism running through it.

Levin adds layers to his basic whodunit story, and there is much more to it than just a dry investigation. You'll find underlying themes of old wounds, redemption, and forgiveness. Another thing to like about this story is the relationship the main character, Preuss, has with a woman named Grace who offers intimacy and a listening ear. The dialogue between them is nice. Besides the investigation and personal relationship, you also enjoy the interesting settings Levin takes you through--from the streets of Detroit to a Buddhist temple. Preuss is a clever detective and an engaging character with traits we can relate to - parental issues, internal struggles, and a desire for justice and fairness. Levin is skilled at setting up the plot, building curiosity and suspense, creating memorable, original characters like Devonte and Toby, and following through to a satisfying conclusion. Once you get into the head of Martin Preuss, you feel like you know him on a first-name basis. In the House of Night by Donald Levin should be on every mystery fan's to-read list.