The novel 'In the House of Memories' delves into the theme of silence in the Netherlands following World War II and the Holocaust, presenting a compelling subject matter that raises pertinent questions about memory and trauma. In her review for Dagens Nyheter, Johanna Käck highlights the classic narrative structure employed in the novel, which effectively sets the stage for exploring profound historical and personal experiences. However, despite its weighty themes, the review indicates that the storytelling does not resonate with vibrancy, leaving the reader with a sense of detachment.

Käck's critique centers on the characterization within the novel, particularly pointing out that the main character comes across as whiny, which detracts from the overall engagement with the narrative. The reviewer expresses disappointment in how the author has constructed the protagonist, suggesting that this portrayal diminishes the impact of the serious historical context that the novel aims to represent. While the significance of the subject matter is acknowledged, the execution appears to fall flat, as the emotional depth desired in such a poignant story is overshadowed by a lack of liveliness and dynamic character development.

In essence, while 'In the House of Memories' tackles an essential historical theme, the execution fails to evoke a strong emotional response, making it a challenging read for those hoping to connect deeply with the material. The review serves not only as an evaluation of the book but also as a commentary on the broader literary representation of historical trauma and memory, which can often struggle to convey the weight of its subject matter effectively.