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A review by apthayer
Ashes by Iona Wayland
5.0
Disclaimer: This is an eARC review.
Iona Wayland's novel has two massive strengths, in my eyes.
First, the memoire-esque recalling of Angela's brother's life, his struggle with addiction, how it affected her, and how it drives the whole story was gripping. It read so genuine and thoughtful. I found myself really connecting with that through-line throughout the novel. I'm not usually a fan of people recalling memories or past events, but the way they were woven in with the emotional impact of them made it very compelling.
Second, Iona Wayland is able to create a wonderful atmosphere throughout the book. Without the use of purple prose or drowning me in descriptions, I was able to emotionally immerse myself in the forest and enjoyed the feeling of "being there" throughout the story.
I was also very excited to be reading a piece by another Latinx author. I'm always hunting for more and relish the opportunity to do so. Especially if they are horror or horror-adjacent.
I will say, I would have liked the book to be a little longer. I think with some extra space, the pacing could have been a little smoother in the beginning, and then I could have enjoyed a slower build of tension.
Iona Wayland's novel has two massive strengths, in my eyes.
First, the memoire-esque recalling of Angela's brother's life, his struggle with addiction, how it affected her, and how it drives the whole story was gripping. It read so genuine and thoughtful. I found myself really connecting with that through-line throughout the novel. I'm not usually a fan of people recalling memories or past events, but the way they were woven in with the emotional impact of them made it very compelling.
Second, Iona Wayland is able to create a wonderful atmosphere throughout the book. Without the use of purple prose or drowning me in descriptions, I was able to emotionally immerse myself in the forest and enjoyed the feeling of "being there" throughout the story.
I was also very excited to be reading a piece by another Latinx author. I'm always hunting for more and relish the opportunity to do so. Especially if they are horror or horror-adjacent.
I will say, I would have liked the book to be a little longer. I think with some extra space, the pacing could have been a little smoother in the beginning, and then I could have enjoyed a slower build of tension.