Reviewed by Leigha on
I. Loved. This. Book. It is atmospheric and creepy in all the right ways. Science and myth interweave together seamlessly to create a believable plot. While it initially focuses on Victoria, it quickly expands to include a large cast of complex, intriguing characters. The representation in this novel is marvelous. Several character are disabled, but they are never defined by their disability. A subtle and sweet romance blossoms between two women as the plot intensifies. The setting is absolutely fascinating. As soon as I finished the novel, I searched for more information on the Challenger Deep and Mariana Trench. I love books that inform while they entertain!
So why is it not five stars? The timeline seemed wonky. I hate trying to figure out why it's later in an earlier part of the novel, but magically earlier in the later part of the novel. I suspect it was a typo, but it pulled me out of the novel long enough to be annoying. Additionally, I thought the ending a little too convenient. All they had to do was turn on all the cruise ship lights, and the sirens disappeared? Not sure I buy it.
tl; dr An atmospheric and thrilling novel with complex characters and a surprisingly realistic plot guaranteed to keep you up at night and away from the water.
Reading updates
- Started reading
- 14 June, 2018: Finished reading
- 14 June, 2018: Reviewed