Reviews

Five stars for prose. The writing is absolutely beautiful, with vivid and unique imagery. Also five stars for well drawn and sympathetic characters, especially Father Bernard. This author knows his scripture! The story is atmospheric and suspenseful, but I found the end a tad ambiguous. I suppose I was expecting more of a surprise. I would recommend this book for readers who liked "Zone One" and want a quiet, thinking person's horror novel that doesn't thrill or scare as much as haunt you.

a_violentfemme's review against another edition

Go to review page

dark mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.25

This is definitely a slow burn but I surprisingly sped through it. I picked it up because I loved Hurley's Starve Acre and I can definitely see the seeds for that book sown in this one- interest to see his development as an author. The atmosphere building was exceptional and it the religious element felt increasingly ominous. I read the maority of this during a huge spring storm and it was the perfect time to read this book.
Only eating a 3.25 as I didn't particularly care for the ending and some questions were left unanswered for me but overall I enjoyed it!

Content Warnings