Synopsis- A group of employees stay overnight at the ORSK furniture store to investigate strange acts of vandalism.
Author- Grady Hendrix
Published- 2014
Horrorstör by Grady Hendrix is a unique blend of horror and satire that takes readers on a twisted journey through the aisles of Orsk, a knockoff IKEA store. At first glance, the novel presents itself as a light-hearted parody of the popular Swedish furniture retailer, but as the story progresses, it quickly descends into a nightmarish tale of supernatural terror.
One of the novel’s strengths lies in its inventive premise. The setting of Orsk, with its maze-like layout and eerie atmosphere, serves as the perfect backdrop for the unfolding horror. Hendrix expertly combines elements of corporate culture with classic haunted house tropes, resulting in a story that is both entertaining and genuinely chilling.
The characters in “Horrorstör” are also well-crafted, albeit somewhat stereotypical. From the ambitious but naïve protagonist, Amy, to the cynical yet resourceful co-worker, Ruth, each character adds depth to the narrative and keeps readers engaged. However, some readers may find it difficult to fully invest in the characters due to their lack of development beyond their initial archetypes.
Where “Horrorstör” falters is in its pacing. While the novel starts strong with a sense of mounting tension, it loses momentum in the middle section, bogged down by repetitive scenes and predictable scares. Additionally, the climax feels rushed, leaving some plot threads unresolved and questions unanswered.
Despite these flaws, “Horrorstör” remains a compelling read for fans of horror and dark humour. Hendrix’s writing is sharp and witty, with clever nods to consumer culture and retail politics sprinkled throughout the narrative. The book’s format, designed to resemble an IKEA catalogue, adds an extra layer of immersion to the story and showcases the author’s attention to detail.
In conclusion, “Horrorstör” is a flawed but enjoyable novel that offers a fresh take on the haunted house genre. While it may not be a masterpiece, it succeeds in delivering thrills and laughs in equal measure, making it a worthwhile addition to any horror enthusiast’s bookshelf.
“Life doesn’t care what you want, other people don’t care what you want. All that matters is what you do.”
Grady Hendrix, Horrorstör
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