Episode 44: Neighbors
Summary: Howdy, neighbor! Join Holly and Devin today as they discuss a theme that catalyzes some of the most intense plotlines in both their wheelhouses; who is sexier and/or creepier than your neighbor? They agree that the tropes in both horror/thriller and romance stories featuring neighbors are some of their favorites. Stick around at the end for some *spoilers* on Holly’s book that blew Devin’s mind!
Topics Discussed:
The Dagger (3:57): Holly discussed The Last House on Needless Street by Catriona Ward, a horror novel following Ted Bannerman - the classic creepy neighbor. He lives alone with his cat, Olivia, in a dilapidated house at the end of a cul-de-sac. Visited by his daughter, Lauren, and with perspectives shifting between them, a neighbor Dee, and the cat Olivia (you read that right), this novel explores what it means to be a neighbor, and to know (or not) yours. Holly’s key takeaways were:
This novel examines the impact of traumatic events on individuals’ perceptions, behaviors, and mental well-being. Ward delves into how psychological trauma can distort memories and influence actions, including the nature of reality.
Much of what you can expect from this book is disturbing; the author taps into fears and anxieties of the characters and the reader to create an unsettling atmosphere and unshakeable sense of unease.
The unreliable narrators contribute to the suspense and ambiguity of the story; nothing in the book is what it seems - the reader is presented with perspectives that shift and befuddle.
The Heart (18:18): Devin discussed The Switch by Beth O’Leary, a novel that follows Leena Cotton and her 79-year-old grandmother, Eileen, as they switch houses for two months. After a panic attack and subsequent sabbatical from work, Leena needs a change of pace and is looking for a quieter life than her bustling experience in London. Eileen is newly single, about to turn eighty, and ready to mingle. Devin’s key takeaways were:
While this novel is definitely a romance (for both Leena and Eileen), we also witness important and equally transformative platonic and familial relationships; our protagonists redefine their relationship through the novel and come to a deeper understanding of each other as they live each other’s lives.
One of the main themes O’Leary teases out is self-discovery at any age; whether you’re about to be 30 or about to be 80, there is more to uncover about who you are, what you want, and where you want your life to go.
Unlike many romances, The Switch has octogenarian representation and intergenerational connections; as a reader we get to experience well-rounded characters in multiple generations who come together to grow and learn from each other.
Hot On the Shelf (36:17):
What’s Making Our Hearts Race (40:42):
Holly: Taylor Swift (Holly came out as a Swiftie)
Devin: Heartstopper Season 2
If you like what you hear, please tell your friends and rate and review us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so that we can find our perfect audience.
