What do readers think of Smothermoss by Alisa Alering? Write your own review.

The story concept is intriguing but I could not picture the characters well. I define a good story by being able to clearly see the people as real people. I kept trying to picture the sisters, the mother and the older woman. Maybe they were left vague so each reader can weave their own description.I know Sheila was troubled and shackled by the rope either as a possible suicide attempt or a threat of imprisonment and death. I do like stories like this as I am a Stephen King fan and others of that genre but the story kept missing the mark. I would encourage the author to keep at it because I really kept hoping for …more more. Keep going!! You will do it and I will look for more from this author. (less)

Smothermoss by Alisa Alering is an eclectic novel set in the 1980s in Pennsylvania. I would categorize it as a spooky horror novel with magical/fantastical elements. I was often left confused as the reader is dropped into the story unaware of the overall situation; however, eventually, I was able to piece together enough information to follow the story. I think fans of non-gory horror novels would enjoy this novel, and it reminded me of some of the short stories in the anthology, Never Whistle at Night.

Normally I enjoy stories about the Appalchian region because my ancestors are from there.

I was aware that there would be supernatural elements to the plot but it was all a bit much.

While I'm willing to suspend belief to some degree I prefer some explanations.

I would recommend this novel to someone who enjoys the Gothic and off- beat.

As a woman born and raised in the heart of Appalachia, I had high hopes for this book, especially as it seemed to be about strong, special women and not the usual, the Appalachian drug epidemic. Alas, I was yet again let down. From the start, it seemed overly wordy and descriptive. The characters started out promising, but I ended up liking two, neither of which was a main character. As an Appalachian who overcame a very humble upbringing with amazing female role models, I was yet again disappointed by the overall theme, disjointedness and confusion of this novel. It could have been great, but fell flat for me.

I don't mind a strange book as long as it has interesting characters and a balanced plot. This has neither. Perhaps "rural gothic" is just not my thing-I did not care for The Waters either. The supernatural elements are confusing and the story slow and boring. Alisa Alering does have a way with words but a story revolving around the murder of two women should have been much more engaging.