666 Park Avenue – Garbriella Pierce

Sometimes books are therapeutic. Even if they are horrific tales (like the last few I’ve read) vs. positive overload. And sometimes they offer comfort in the sense that they often ring true (or ring back) what’s similar in us, letting us know we are not alone, and healing trauma through similar trauma. 

This is my theory for continuing with my ghost story binge.

666 Park Avenue was not as scary as the two previous novels I recently read, but in a way I related more to the main character, Jane, and her world, transformed from normal, happy, engaged and living in Paris, to haunted and dangerous because of her fiancé’s controlling and freakish family in New York, and a mother-in-law who’s a real witch (literally).  However, before arriving to New York, Jane discovers a secret about herself, from her Grandmother, and realises she’s not one to be pushed around by anyone, regardless of how powerful or rich, and that she is endowed with some magic of her own which others may try to steal.

The characters are all great in this novel. Malcolm is caring, kind, and handsome, and has every intention of doing right by Jane.  Their relationship is endearing and steamy! When Malcolm is away on various business trips, Jane finds out first-hand about his mother as she tries to take over the planning of Malcolm and Jane’s wedding without giving any regard to Jane’s wishes or ideas. When Jane stands her ground (finally, to avoid bursting at the seams – she’s not even allowed to pick out her own dress! {are you sure that doesn’t make you look fat, dear?!?}), things become spooky, and she realises she’s dealing with a dangerous force with an agenda of its own – one that doesn’t include her – one that wants to win at all costs!  Throughout it all, Jane meets a few friends and lively characters, and discovers also that love and magic can flow through her and anyone else with magic – not just Malcolm.  And Malcolm comes face to face with confronting his family and their spells or losing Jane forever.

A light, comical, little horrific and entertaining read. It will also be turned into a hit series on ABC.  For anyone who liked the movie Monster in Law, which was also very comical, this one might be good for you.