The Ostermann House

Michael and Audrey Felton are university professors in Houston, Texas, who decide that a home in the country might just be the balm they need after living in the city. When they find the country home on acreage at a very low price, they jump at the opportunity to be the next owners. Here, the townspeople mostly keep to themselves, although a few find it necessary to share with Michael some of the strange happenings they have witnessed at his property over the years. Local cop Jack Rainey quickly befriends the Feltons, but changes his story too often, which creates doubt about the house and his credibility. Can they tolerate the home invasions and mysterious antics?

“The Ostermann House” and its land have a vivid past. Many locals share conflicting stories. The small town feel described by author J. R. Klein is very detailed.  He paints a colorful portrait, which allows readers to step directly into this story. The main characters are well drawn and the supporting cast lends to the intrigue. The mystery and suspense of what lies below the superficial layer of the house and land are drawn with great imagination. The conclusion may lend itself more to sci-fi (which is not the initial tone of the book), but will keep readers engaged to the end to find the truth. The finale is interesting and will have readers questioning Michael’s mental and emotional soundness. Unfortunately, they will also question the plausibility of the ending itself.  Possibly an epilogue, if added, could provide more substance and wrap the ending up nicely. 

Viola Robins