Published by Hodder and Stoughton
July 2022
Sasha and Harry move to an isolated valley in the country where they are one of the few families living there. They have barely settled in when they learn some very disturbing news about the valley from their neighbours. There are dark and dangerous times ahead for the couple as they accept and learn the ways of the land and the evil that lies within.
I absolutely loved the setting and it was easy to get lost in the idyllic scenery and country life. I enjoyed the ominous tone and slow creeping dread of what was to unfold. We learn about the history and lore of the land gradually through the point of view of both Sasha and Harry. The premise is certainly original with very creative story building. The evil that unfolds is chilling and breaks the mould in many ways, making it fresh and compelling.
There were aspects of this book that could have been better for me. I found the characters’ backstories to be overdone especially at the start and Harry’s flash backs didn’t seem to always drive the story. The dialogue felt unnatural in places and I also felt like information was being repeated too much. Bearing in mind this story was originally a Reddit thread, I understand why things might be a little out of sync in book form. I would have loved to see the plot developed more and a better paced ending.
Overall, it was an entertaining mix of horror, supernatural and folklore with a lot of intrigue and original ideas that is worth reading and experiencing yourself.
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