A review by sarasbooks
Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane

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

5.0

It's summer 1954. U.S Marshal Teddy Daniels and his new partner, Chuck Aule come to Shutter Island for an investigation. Rachel Solando, a patient in Ashecliffe Hospital for the Criminally Insane has disappeared, despite being locked in a cell under constant surveillance. How did she escape the island without being seen? In her room, they discover a code that give them important clues. Nothing at Ashecliffe Hospital is what it seems, what shocking truths will be revealed?
Teddy is determined to succeed in this investigation but it's not the only thing in his mind. He recently lost his wife and doesn't seem to break free from his past. 

Before reading this book, I had already watched the movie adaptation several times. which is brilliant btw. So this story wasn't new to me. But let me tell you, it's one of my favorites. Not because it's a happy, light read. It's actually the opposite. But it's such a well crafted story, it's such a masterpiece and it makes me feel so much. It has the biggest twists ever. It contains so much detail, literally everything, every word has a meaning, a special reason for being written, which will only make total sense at the very end. It's like a puzzle that is slowly coming together. Some parts won't make much sense to the reader until the last pages. Just be patient please, it's so worth it. Please don't read any spoilers online!! The tone, the atmosphere is so distinctive. You won't want to stop reading.
Be aware that there are a lot of trigger warnings, some parts may be hard to go through. It's one of the saddest stories I have ever read and it holds such a special place in my heart. I constantly think about it. I feel so much for these characters.

I could write a whole essay on this book, it's one of my all time faves. Just read it, it will be like nothing you have ever experienced. Let me know if there's any other Dennis Lehane book you recommend, I want to read more from this amazing author.

(if you know the story, you'll understand why i decided to use water for this picture)
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