I selected this book based on its intriguing blurb, as it appeared to be the ideal thriller to complement the ongoing literary voyage I have embarked upon. The story was gripping and brooding, gradually unfolding and inviting deeper exploration of its shadows with each passing chapter. I was thoroughly impressed by the author’s mastery in crafting horror and thriller narratives. The vivid depiction of details, the carefully curated setting, and the raw emotions portrayed all contributed to an intense and gripping reading experience, as the characters confronted perilous situations and unearthed unsettling truths, while their companions observed from the sidelines.
At the halfway point of the book, there was a noticeable shift towards a religious tone, which was unexpected. Upon revisiting BookSirens, I discovered that it was categorized as a “Christian Thriller.” Despite my initial hesitation due to the association with supernatural elements, I ultimately chose to continue reading. While I may not be devout, I am a firm believer in the concepts of retribution and kindness.
I found great enjoyment in approximately 70% of the literary work, without revealing any crucial details. The initial 10% effectively paved the way towards the core of the story, while the remaining 20% consisted primarily of conversations among men in their twenties and could have been condensed.
From the perspective of someone who does not adhere to the Christian faith, this book can be interpreted as an allegory for living a life guided by karmic principles. Such principles should be embraced by all individuals, as they empower us to exhibit kindness, forgiveness, self-reflection, and the ability to rectify our mistakes.
Providing a star rating for this book is a challenging task. While I found it enjoyable, I did not find it exceptional; it evoked powerful emotions, yet also conveyed the messages that I personally live by on a daily basis. I commend the author for not promoting any specific religion in the book, as some tend to do. The writing itself was strong, although I do feel that the ending was somewhat prolonged and could have delved into more detail, considering the wealth of content within the book. Overall, I would assign a rating of 3.5 stars.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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