Strong works of gothic fiction are propelled along as much by plot — those surprising storylines and turns readers look forward to encountering — as by atmosphere and the creepy, weird vibes it can convey. Readers can often just enjoy being carried along for long stretches by vibes, and vibes alone.
Emily Carroll's new adult horror graphic novel, A Guest in the House, seamlessly achieves that atmospheric element. The mechanics of its plot are a bit more unsteady. But even though the book doesn't exactly land plot-wise, it's an impressively long and gorgeous volume that delivers an uncanny, wild ride.
