The New Couple in 5B

On the basis of experiences that can’t be understood otherwise, I do believe in paranormal phenomena. Given the typical fiction thrillers that are read and then reviewed in this blog, it’s clear that the reader must have some talent for setting aside reality testing, at least to some degree in order to enjoy the books we write about with such gusto. To make a book interesting and believable, there’s a line the author must ride between uncommon experiences of the characters and the unreality which would make a story preposterous. The authors that we review over and over again are the ones who understanding that distinction. 

The New Couple in 5B is the third book I’ve read and reviewed by Lisa Unger, and I’ve provided favorable reviews for Under My Skin and Confessions on the 7:45. There were certainly strong hints early in the book that the occult would be a part of this story, but I did not fully realize the extent that the occult was really the centerpiece for the author’s plot. It’s my opinion that Ms. Unger has crossed the line between reality and the preposterous. I found myself getting eager just to finish the book and not so excited about what the author would do with her characters.

 

If you’re more attracted to the occult content of his book than I am or if you have more of an ability to set aside all reasonable reality testing than I do, then I could recommend the story to you. However, I’m disappointed that I took the time to read it to the end.