Right away from the first proper scene I was hooked. The book starts off eerie, atmospheric, and chilling. I didn't want to know more, I almost needed it.
Unfortunately the best part of this book, I think, is the start. It starts off strong and creepy and well and truly draws you in. The atmosphere of the island is perfect, misty and creepy and full of whispers and secrets. Marshall does a great job setting the scene, scaring you but also exciting you about what's to come. Clearly, she knows how to write. But, despite my waiting with my breath held and pages flipped, the actual story didn't meet up to the hype of the beginning.
The plot sadly didn't match up to the writing. Nothing is explained in a satisfying way and not enough time is spent with characters either so you don't really feel connected to anyone even if you want to. The explanations felt contrived, the story just not enough for me. I don't know how to explain it. I know books require a suspension of belief but I want it to make sense within the story and for me it didn't. I would have liked more world-building or thought put into everything. Lots of TELLING was done but not enough showing either. I did really like the way the story was told in mixed media fashion and the "recordings" were some of the best parts. Here, less was told and more was seen and I liked that but ultimately it all just fell flat and I was bored.
I would still recommend the read especially for the atmosphere and unique story but I don't think I'd pick this up again.
Unfortunately the best part of this book, I think, is the start. It starts off strong and creepy and well and truly draws you in. The atmosphere of the island is perfect, misty and creepy and full of whispers and secrets. Marshall does a great job setting the scene, scaring you but also exciting you about what's to come. Clearly, she knows how to write. But, despite my waiting with my breath held and pages flipped, the actual story didn't meet up to the hype of the beginning.
The plot sadly didn't match up to the writing. Nothing is explained in a satisfying way and not enough time is spent with characters either so you don't really feel connected to anyone even if you want to. The explanations felt contrived, the story just not enough for me. I don't know how to explain it. I know books require a suspension of belief but I want it to make sense within the story and for me it didn't. I would have liked more world-building or thought put into everything. Lots of TELLING was done but not enough showing either. I did really like the way the story was told in mixed media fashion and the "recordings" were some of the best parts. Here, less was told and more was seen and I liked that but ultimately it all just fell flat and I was bored.
I would still recommend the read especially for the atmosphere and unique story but I don't think I'd pick this up again.