Locke & Key (2008), Volume 2

December 10, 2009
The second volume of the horror/fantasy series by Hill (Heart-Shaped Box) continues the eerie, intriguing story established in the first volume, Welcome to Lovecraft. After the death of their father, the Locke children, along with their mother, move back to the traditional family home, Keyhouse, in Massachusetts. After a vengeful spirit is released from the Keyhouse well, the lives of the Locke family only get stranger. The youngest child, Bode, discovers a key that allows one to open literally the head and insert, as well as remove, memories, emotion, and knowledge at their will. The terrible repercussions of this power become apparent as Hill's deliciously slow-spun tale unfolds, aided by Rodriguez's rich, effortlessly flowing artwork. Verdict With weighty themes and scenes of violence, this is most appropriate for adults. However, it is necessary to read Welcome to Lovecraft first, or else readers will find themselves lost.-M. Brandon Robbins, Wayne Cty. P.L., Goldsboro, NC

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