This stunning cover first caught my attention, and it captures the story perfectly.
If you’re looking for a dark read to sink your teeth into, this novel will easily satisfy that craving. Wil and Elwood couldn’t be more different. She’s hot-headed, stubborn, and impulsive. He’s quiet, obedient, and even-tempered. But they’ve been best friends since grade school up until recent events. Wil’s mom went missing a year ago, and she’s convinced Elwood’s cult family is responsible. Elwood maintains his family’s innocence and says they couldn’t possibly be involved in something so horrible. Until he learns his father and the congregation plan to sacrifice him in a ritual. Then, Wil is the only person Elwood can turn to for help.
With a dark, unnatural forest, a snowstorm that blankets the area, and the rundown motel where Wil and her father live, this novel is atmospheric in the best way. The Garden of Adam congregation (cult) and its pastor, Elwood’s father, wield a lot of power in this small community, and Wil and Elwood soon realize they can only rely on themselves and a few friends. Wil’s father is still grieving the disappearance of his wife and has turned to alcohol to cope with his problems, so that’s just another person they can’t count on. When Elwood experiences some strange occurences, he wonders if he’s hallucinating. He soon discovers something is growing inside him, and he shares an unusual bond with the forest. He and Wil have to figure out something fast because his father and the cult are coming for him. The ending isn’t what I’d expected, but it’s perfect.
A fast pace, paranormal elements, strong characterization, and unique plot make this an incredible debut novel. I’ll definitely be looking for future releases from this author. Another reviewer stated fans of Stranger Things would enjoy this book, and I agree.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
If you’re looking for a dark read to sink your teeth into, this novel will easily satisfy that craving. Wil and Elwood couldn’t be more different. She’s hot-headed, stubborn, and impulsive. He’s quiet, obedient, and even-tempered. But they’ve been best friends since grade school up until recent events. Wil’s mom went missing a year ago, and she’s convinced Elwood’s cult family is responsible. Elwood maintains his family’s innocence and says they couldn’t possibly be involved in something so horrible. Until he learns his father and the congregation plan to sacrifice him in a ritual. Then, Wil is the only person Elwood can turn to for help.
With a dark, unnatural forest, a snowstorm that blankets the area, and the rundown motel where Wil and her father live, this novel is atmospheric in the best way. The Garden of Adam congregation (cult) and its pastor, Elwood’s father, wield a lot of power in this small community, and Wil and Elwood soon realize they can only rely on themselves and a few friends. Wil’s father is still grieving the disappearance of his wife and has turned to alcohol to cope with his problems, so that’s just another person they can’t count on. When Elwood experiences some strange occurences, he wonders if he’s hallucinating. He soon discovers something is growing inside him, and he shares an unusual bond with the forest. He and Wil have to figure out something fast because his father and the cult are coming for him. The ending isn’t what I’d expected, but it’s perfect.
A fast pace, paranormal elements, strong characterization, and unique plot make this an incredible debut novel. I’ll definitely be looking for future releases from this author. Another reviewer stated fans of Stranger Things would enjoy this book, and I agree.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.