- The Set Up -A long time ago, three families after making their fortunes came to South Carolina seeking land. They were each granted a parcel on Watson Island. However, the men awakened magic on the land. It resulted in two of the families, the Beaufort's and Watson's receiving abilities. The third family the Colesworth's inherited a cursed. These gifts/curses are passed down from generation to generations. The family’s history, pirates, voodoo and the present day story of Barrie and those on the island was fascinating.
- The Writing- Boone delivers a beautifully written Gothic Southern novel. She paints a picture of the island, its history and the characters who live there. Our story revolves around protagonist Barrie Watson. Barrie is seventeen and upon her mother’s death, she discovers she has family on Watson Island. Leaving her dying Uncle behind in San Francisco, she goes to live with her Aunt Pru. Here she learns about her family history and the ancient spirt who cursed them all long ago. The world is magical, eerie and the gifts are not exactly gifts but compulsions that will not be denied. It was riveting.
- Characters- Despite the rich details, the story itself is more character driven and Boone created delightfully fleshed out, quirky characters. Aunt Pru seems eccentric, but as we learn about her, we see what the island has done. Our protagonist Barrie is curious and tentative. Now free from her mother’s control she is determined to experience life. She wants to explore the island and unravel its secrets. Barrie is spirited and at times fearless. A young man named Eight acts as a guide for Barrie and their relationship develops into something deeper. Cassie, Barrie’s cousin fiends friendship and we soon learn she wants more from Barrie. The three families are intertwined from the beginning in scandal, drama, romance and feuds. Boone gave us all the scandalous details and I was drawn to it like a bee to nectar.
- Mystery- The overall mystery and suspense was presented to the reader with an unhurried pace with different storylines weaving slowly together. Ghosts, strange figures, unexplained happenings, strange pulls calling the characters to act all had me wanting to stay on Watson Island and uncover its secrets. The thread regarding a fire carrier was one of my favorites. The story should be read/listened to at a leisurely pace. Allowing reader to absorb every detail. Boone builds the story on little tid-bits creating ah-ha moments for the reader. I love how she allows the reader to make connects and discover things for themselves.
- Romance- The romance was wonderfully done. It reminded me of summer from the sun on my skin to the smell of cut grass. Boone allowed it develop from friendship, drawing it out with tender moments and laughter. It felt realistic and I basked in it. I loved that this young adult novel didn't succumb to any of the usual romantic tropes.
Audio provided by Tantor Media. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer