SOLVED. Boy finds house where time has frozen, others living in house too, magical? [s]

[Alyssa]

I read this book when I was in 5th grade, so around 2003 to 2004. The main character was a boy, and I think he was around 10 to 14 years old.

I don't remember too much, but I think he gets angry with his parents and runs out of the house at night. I think something happens with the streetlights, and he finds this house. He goes in and there's an old lady, a young girl, and a butler living there, there may have also been a talking cat. He can't leave the property and basically time has frozen there. In the end he does leave, but it makes everyone in the house go to the age they're supposed to be, which depends on how long they've lived in the house. Magical things happen and it could be in an alternate/parallel universe.

I've been looking for this book forever, and I know I'm fuzzy on the details but if anyone knows which book I'm talking about please let me know! Thank you!

[Tab]

Do you remember anything about the cover?

any other fantasy elements, like witches, dragons, trolls, etc? Does most of the story take place in the house?

[Sue]

'The Thief Of Always' by Clive Barker?

[Shanna_redwind]

Here's the link The Thief of Always That was my thought too.

[Alyssa]

I'm so sorry for the late reply, I completely missed the email in my inbox. But yes, that's the book!!! I remember loving the book when I read it so I now have something to look forward to!

Thank you all so so much, I really appreciate it! The mystery has finally been solved haha

[Lobstergirl, au gratin]

Super popular book in this group, queried NINE times.