The Invisible Hotel: A Novel By Yeji Y. Ham

"The Invisible Hotel" is a chilling exploration of identity, memory, and the lingering trauma of war. Yewon, trapped in a decaying South Korean village, is haunted by dreams of a mysterious hotel filled with infinite keys and quiet terror. Amidst her family's struggles with loss and anxiety, Yewon's reality blurs as she navigates the complexities of her country's history.

The novel delves into the aftermath of the Korean War, where every house holds the bones of ancestors lost in the conflict. Yewon's brother serves near the North Korean border, her sister grapples with tragedy, and her mother's health deteriorates under the weight of anxiety. Amidst this turmoil, Yewon forms a bond with Ms. Han, a North Korean refugee, as she drives her to visit her imprisoned brother.

As Yewon's dreams become more intense, the line between reality and illusion fades, leading her to confront uncomfortable truths about her nation's heritage. Through Yewon's journey, the novel explores themes of collective memory, familial obligation, and the search for identity in a post-war society.

Written in the gothic tradition, "The Invisible Hotel" is a masterful blend of horror and literary fiction, gripping readers with its surreal atmosphere and haunting imagery. Kim Fu's praise of the novel as a "keep-the-lights-on masterwork of horror" underscores its ability to leave a lasting impression on its audience, haunting them long after the final page is turned. 📚❤️