This book actually gets a 3.5 if I had the choice. This was the kind of book that draws you in and then makes you jump at noises while (and after) reading it. Author Liparulo does a great job describing the spooky house and the strange occurrences, and I love me a good, spooky story! Alas, what brought the score down was the direction it went and the fact it's part of a series. Booooo! It takes a strange, time-traveling, alternate universe, portal turn that just didn't make it as creepy anymore. So any sequel will be more sci-fi rather than horror. But I'm sure it'll be adventurous and suspenseful! Teens and tweens will enjoy this series if looking for an engaging read and something spooky.