Scan barcode
loandbeholdx's review against another edition
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
5.0
This book was so intense, I had to force myself to put it down, as I wanted to savour it. I really could of devoured it in one sitting, though. It's fast paced, and it didn't take long for the creepy occurrences to start. The horror of this book focuses on Jamaican folklore, which was partly why I was so hooked reading this. It was really refreshing to read a plot based around a troupe that isn't very common in mainstream horror, and it also gave me a small insight into Jamaican culture itself. Not only is it well written, but its full of diversity and loveable characters. The horror itself was extremely suspenseful, terrifying, and constant throughout. We also explore grief in this book, and the way it can affect people. There's a lot I could say about this aspect, but I will keep it to myself for now as I don't want to give spoilers. Although this is a YA novel, it could be enjoyed by any horror lover, especially those who are wanting to broaden their horizons and delve into a cultures supernatural folklore that you may not be familiar with.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Grief, Death, Death of parent, Blood, and Panic attacks/disorders
billykmaguiree's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
After his father’s death, Tyrese Walker spends time in Jamaica, refusing to mourn. After Tyrese is targeted by the mysterious ‘Shadow Man’ he vows to find out why he is being targeted. Alongside his cousin (Marvin) and their friend Ellie, the three children vow to find out why Tyrese is being targeted.
Tyrese’s grief is explored in such a way that you can see how grief changes you. As Tyrese grows through the narrative, you can tell that grief has changed Tyrese. From initial refusal to come to terms with his father’s death to finally listening to the voicemail, Tyrese’s story is one that explores the highs and lows of grief. As Tyrese met the Shadow Man, he finally came to terms with the grief he had been feeling, thus banishing the enemy.
JP Rose’s writing style is phenomenal and has the perfect mixture of description, action and characterisation. You could clearly feel the journey that Tyrese has gone through from start to finish and this makes Tyrese’s actions a whole lot more believable than if he’d stayed static. The characters of Ellie and Marvin are excellent additions to the tale, Ellie serves as a reminder of the bond that Tyrese had with his father and Marvin contrasts the grief by continuously bringing up Tyrese’s father. With the ‘Shadow Man’ only going after those affected by death, Tyrese eventually comes to terms with his fathers’ death.
This is a stunning tale that could’ve easily been expanded for a second book in the same universe. Tyrese was an extremely loveable lead character and pairing this with Rose’s magnetic prose allows for a truly enjoyable read despite showcasing darker elements of life.
A huge thank you to the team at Andersen Press and Netgalley for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Grief and Panic attacks/disorders
More...