Written by Hugo Award-winning author Alix E. Harrow, Starling House is a Southern Gothic speculative fiction novel about Opal, an impoverished woman trying to escape her prejudiced hometown with her brother. She becomes a housekeeper at the enigmatic Starling House, grows close to its mysterious inhabitant, Arthur, and uncovers the house's deep secrets. The book examines themes of truth, power, and choice. This text features discussions of enslavement, sexual assault, suicide, self-harm, domestic abuse, racism, sexism, classism, anti-gay bias, alcohol abuse, and violence.

Starling House by Alix E. Harrow is broadly well-received for its vibrant storytelling and richly developed characters. Readers appreciate the compelling blend of modern themes and gothic elements. However, some critics feel the pacing is uneven and the plot can be predictable. Overall, it is a recommended read for fans of atmospheric fiction.

Fans of The Ten Thousand Doors of January and The House in the Cerulean Sea will revel in Alix E. Harrow's Starling House. Ideal for readers who cherish atmospheric settings, intricate plots, and strong, nuanced characters. If you love gothic tales with a modern twist, this book is for you.

Mysterious / Dark / Suspenseful / Emotional

Alix E. Harrow

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Starling House and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Starling House Summary and Study Guide

Background

Starling House Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-8

Starling House Chapters 1-8 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 9-15

Starling House Chapters 9-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 16-25

Starling House Chapters 16-25 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 26-Epilogue

Starling House Chapter 26-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Starling House Character Analysis

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Themes

Starling House Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Starling House Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Starling House Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Starling House Essay Topics

Starling House

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Starling House?

Reading Age

Book Details