Haus of Furies

by Donnie Clark

The Fury family descends on Natchitoches, rolling into town in their purple hearse, Banshee. They have recently inherited the estate of their reclusive and enigmatic Uncle Edwin. It comprises a spidery Queen Anne mansion with a cemetery in the backyard. The Mom called Rose, her son Alex, a gay witch and daughter Agatha, a mechanical prodigy are keen to explore their new home. They come upon secret passageways, hidden rooms, arcane objects and well-worn ledgers filled with occult mysteries. They make their way into town as well, dipping a toe in the local dating pool and making new friends at Mama’s Tavern. Their innocent peccadilloes arouse the ire of Hazel, a kind elderly woman by day who harbors a dark past and centuries old grudges beneath her crisp linen blouses and pastel cardigans. But with the help of a friendly weredog and a little luck they band together to protect their home and defend true love culminating in a magickal street fight against ancient, malevolent forces.

248 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 23, 2024

About the author

I'm originally a smalltown boy from Bayou Country. As a gay witch, I ran screaming to the big city lights as soon as I could. Finding those somewhat lacking as well, I bought a castle on the outskirts of town. I reside there with my trusty Australian shepherd. It's only a little haunted and the roiling fog outside keeps me safe from prying eyes while I brew my potions and inscribe new spells on my scrolls with a cartoonishly large, violet feather quill. I love long walks in the graveyard, veils and shawls, the rain and mysterious men. You can find me on Instagram @kitchenwindowboy

Reviews

[Marquita Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book! It brings back the coziness of childhood stories such as those written by John Bellaire but with the edge of adulthood themes. As if Bellaire and the ladies of Steel Magnolias were friends! Highly recommend if you like a magical and adult edge with your coziness!

[Rosalinda Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so much fun! The dialog is snappy, witty, and entertaining. The way the Fury family talks to each other reminds me of an old comedy from the 1930s... But with magic! It really starts picking up around chapter 5 when they start meeting some of the locals and the antagonist gets formally introduced. So don't put it down! And don't be afraid to break out Google and look up any words you don't know, it'll really add to the story. I loved looking up the different architecture mentioned to get a good feel for the house. And as a Southern girl myself all the mentions of the plant life really painted a lovely picture that felt familiar. All the pop culture references made me feel like this could all be happening in my own backyard.
The climax was very engaging and, I must say, the monsters are quite creepy! The book left off with room for a sequel and I can't wait to see what happens next!

[Canuknot (Cyn) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who doesn’t love cheeky dialogue, 90’s pop culture, and magical adventure?! If you are looking for a fun read from a newer author, this is perfect for spooky season (which is all year long when your heart is goth 🖤🦇). This is fantastic Donnie, looking forward to whatever is next for you!

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magical and hilarious

This was a delightful story about an eccentric family, including a fabulous witch named Alex, and their adventures solving a tricky problem around their newly-inherited family mansion. So much FUN!!

[Julia T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Haus of Furies by author Donnie Clark:

Donnie Clark is a true wordsmith, painting a detailed portrait of each scene with the same flourish as Alexander himself. Each character embodies a distinct yet modern personality as flawlessly as if they are going to dance right off the page! Sweeping you up with the joking energy to shake up your mood (and your drink) and make you smile.
Even the secondary characters have their own individual voice, which is so important to truly immerse you in the story.
As a modern witch I have to say there was a delightfully refreshing atmosphere surrounding the character Alex. When was the last time you were reading fiction about witchcraft and were reminded you are out of an ingredient you keep forgetting to restock? Realistic witchcraft being threaded into a fictional story is SO important for readers who actually practice witchcraft in their daily lives. Having a gay main character with all the sass, flair, intelligence, and whimsy of Alexander is also a great breath of fresh air. Usually, the best character in a book is sidelined for quick one-liners because of their gayness. Having a MC like him brings us further out of the dark ages of literature where the gayness is relegated to being the bestie of the leading lady, if it’s there at all.

In terms of the spooky goodness, Clark does not disappoint. I won’t give spoilers, but he had my skin crawling in the very best way! I only wish I was able to visit the mansion myself.

This is an author I will never tire of reading and I can’t wait for more!

[Avalon Ash · Rating 5 out of 5]

Haus of Furies is an exceptional read that effortlessly draws you into its richly crafted world. The author’s storytelling is so smooth and engaging that it feels like slipping into a warm, inviting dream. Rarely have I encountered a book that captivates me from the very first page, reminiscent of the first time I picked up beloved series like Harry Potter or the True Blood novels.

The narrative flows seamlessly, making it easy to get fully immersed in the vivid and enchanting universe the author has created. The characters are well-developed, and the plot is both compelling and wonderfully paced. Every chapter leaves you wanting more, and I genuinely hope this becomes a series, as I am absolutely in love with this story.

If you’re looking for a book that will transport you to another world and keep you hooked until the very end, Haus of Furies is an absolute must-read.