Olivia Lewin's Hadley House is a captivating blend of fantasy, mystery, and psychological thriller that immerses readers in a world where the supernatural and the mundane collide in unexpected ways. The novel's premise is intriguing from the outset: a protagonist, down on her luck, inherits a dilapidated house in a decommissioned graveyard, only to find herself trapped in a time loop filled with danger and mystery. This setup provides fertile ground for exploring themes of identity, fear, and redemption.

At the heart of Hadley House is the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and resilience. Fired from her dream job and facing eviction, she is thrust into a situation that seems like a blessing but quickly turns into a nightmare. The house, a character in its own right, is both a prison and a puzzle, challenging her to confront her deepest fears and insecurities. The time loop mechanism adds a layer of complexity to her character development, as each reset forces her to reevaluate her strategies and relationships with the other inhabitants of the house.

The supporting characters are equally compelling, each bringing their own unique challenges and insights to the narrative. The oversized orc, the pixie-demon with an attitude, the partially-feral wolfman, the defective basilisk, and the ghost each represent different facets of societal rejection and misunderstood identities. Lewin skillfully uses these characters to explore the theme of what it means to be deemed "unsafe" or "defective" by society. Through their interactions with the protagonist, readers are invited to question the labels and prejudices that define our perceptions of others.

One of the most striking aspects of the novel is its exploration of fear and courage. The protagonist's terror of ghosts is a recurring motif that symbolizes her broader fears of the unknown and the uncontrollable. Her journey is not just about solving the mystery of the house and escaping the time loop, but also about confronting and overcoming her fears. This theme is universal and resonates deeply, as it speaks to the human experience of facing and overcoming personal demons.

The novel's structure, with its time loop mechanic, is reminiscent of works like Groundhog Day and Edge of Tomorrow, but Lewin adds her own unique twist by incorporating elements of fantasy and horror. The constant resetting of the day creates a sense of urgency and tension, as the protagonist races against time to solve the puzzles left by her uncle. This narrative device also allows for rich character development, as the protagonist's relationships with the other inhabitants evolve with each cycle.

Lewin's writing is both atmospheric and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the eerie and decaying Hadley House. The setting is almost a character in itself, with its creaking floors, shadowy corners, and the ever-present sense of something lurking just out of sight. The author's attention to detail and ability to create a palpable sense of place enhances the overall impact of the story, drawing readers into the world she has created.

In comparison to other works in the genre, Hadley House stands out for its unique blend of fantasy and psychological thriller elements. While it shares thematic similarities with Neil Gaiman's Neverwhere in its exploration of hidden worlds and marginalized characters, Lewin's novel is distinct in its focus on the internal struggles of its protagonist and the intricate puzzle-like nature of its plot. The combination of a supernatural setting with a deeply personal journey of self-discovery sets Hadley House apart as a compelling and thought-provoking read.

Overall, Hadley House is a masterful exploration of fear, identity, and redemption, wrapped in a gripping narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Olivia Lewin has crafted a story that is both entertaining and profound, inviting readers to reflect on their own perceptions and prejudices. The novel's blend of fantasy, mystery, and psychological depth makes it a standout addition to the genre, and a must-read for fans of stories that challenge and inspire.

In conclusion, Hadley House is a testament to the power of storytelling to illuminate the complexities of the human experience. Through its richly drawn characters, atmospheric setting, and intricate plot, the novel offers a compelling exploration of what it means to be human in a world that often fears and misunderstands difference. It is a story that will linger in the minds of readers long after the final page is turned, and one that deserves a place on the bookshelf of anyone who appreciates the transformative power of fiction.