A review by michelles_book_nook
The Drowning Isle by Simon McCleave

challenging emotional mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

⚠️ CW: drug use, paedophilia, alcoholism, domestic abuse, murder, parental death and suicide ⚠️ If you love crime fiction reads then I highly recommend checking out Simon McCleave! When a teenage boy goes missing on a camping trip with his friends, the close-knit community of Anglesey is shaken. DI Laura Hart is brought in to lead the murder investigation and instantly feels the pressure, not least because her colleague’s son was the last to see the missing boy alive. Laura’s investigations force her to delve into the tangled web of relationships and personal lives of her own neighbours. The trail leads her to uncover a religious cult called The Fair Men, who locals say have a dark history and still hold their ceremonies on the island where the boys were camping. Amongst all the mysteries and lies, Laura is sure about one thing, the island will not give up the truth easily. This was such a great read that had me staying up late just to finish reading because I could not put it down and I was absolutely hooked until the very end when I was hit with the jaw dropping twist and finale. I've loved this series from the beginning and this one definitely didn't disappoint. I love how Simon McCleave weaves the current case of the book with the updates of DI Laura Hart's life and history regarding her deceased husband and past life in Manchester. Overall, I highly recommend this book and cannot wait for the next one!
Expand filter menu Content Warnings