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andyn5's review against another edition
4.0
This book was definitely not what I was expecting, and I say this in best possible good way.
It’s not a fast-paced story at all and still, I couldn’t stop reading. Andrew Murray has a great style of writing, and it made the story both engulfing and addictive. In the beginning, it seems like the usual thriller, where the main character is driven to a remote location and bodies start dropping. It’s not in the case with this book.
It seemed to me that the plot unraveled in the future, but no. With the consequences of climate change and the growing number of animal species going extinct, this setting doesn’t look that farfetched, with this overpopulated world and the people with money attempting to act like gods. This book slowly turns from realistic towards a dystopian ending, which I wasn’t expecting. It’s masterfully done.
In a near future where the world is turning lawless, Ben, a painter, journeys north to an island off the coast of Scotland in search of his fiancé after she breaks their engagement and disappears on the island. After an arduous journey there, Ben is introduced to an utopian society, where people live in villages, producing their own food, and thriving on sustainable energy. A safe haven away from the rest of the world, where its owner Sir John Pemberly rules single-handedly. However, Ben begins to slowly understand that there’s a horrid truth behind this apparently perfect society and that its owner has far bigger and more dangerous plans than creating paradise on Earth.
The idea for this plot was very well explored and described, and the characters were developed in-depth and given unique perspectives and personalities. Since Ben sets foot in the island, there was a growing sense of unease for me, and it slowly built up throughout the book.
The descriptions are incredible and detailed enough to having me stand on this island alongside Ben as he explores it. He’s a simple man, and his love (or obsession) with his ex-fiancé Cara, is his major driver. His relationship with Pemberly is complex and develops into something deeper as they progressively get closer.
Pemberly himself is a bit of a mystery and is very complex as a character. He rules this island where normal rules don’t apply, controlling every moving part in this supposed paradise. He sounded very much like a cult leader at some point in the story and it didn’t get any better.
My only critique is that I would have liked to see more action elements throughout the book and not just in the final chapters. The twist was a nice surprise, but it was the style of writing that kept me reading. I usually prefer something with a quicker pace.
Still, I would have to have a sequel to see what happens after that unexpected finale. I will definitely be reading other books from Murray.
Thank you Blackstone Publishing via Netgalley for the e-ARC!
It’s not a fast-paced story at all and still, I couldn’t stop reading. Andrew Murray has a great style of writing, and it made the story both engulfing and addictive. In the beginning, it seems like the usual thriller, where the main character is driven to a remote location and bodies start dropping. It’s not in the case with this book.
It seemed to me that the plot unraveled in the future, but no. With the consequences of climate change and the growing number of animal species going extinct, this setting doesn’t look that farfetched, with this overpopulated world and the people with money attempting to act like gods. This book slowly turns from realistic towards a dystopian ending, which I wasn’t expecting. It’s masterfully done.
In a near future where the world is turning lawless, Ben, a painter, journeys north to an island off the coast of Scotland in search of his fiancé after she breaks their engagement and disappears on the island. After an arduous journey there, Ben is introduced to an utopian society, where people live in villages, producing their own food, and thriving on sustainable energy. A safe haven away from the rest of the world, where its owner Sir John Pemberly rules single-handedly. However, Ben begins to slowly understand that there’s a horrid truth behind this apparently perfect society and that its owner has far bigger and more dangerous plans than creating paradise on Earth.
The idea for this plot was very well explored and described, and the characters were developed in-depth and given unique perspectives and personalities. Since Ben sets foot in the island, there was a growing sense of unease for me, and it slowly built up throughout the book.
The descriptions are incredible and detailed enough to having me stand on this island alongside Ben as he explores it. He’s a simple man, and his love (or obsession) with his ex-fiancé Cara, is his major driver. His relationship with Pemberly is complex and develops into something deeper as they progressively get closer.
Pemberly himself is a bit of a mystery and is very complex as a character. He rules this island where normal rules don’t apply, controlling every moving part in this supposed paradise. He sounded very much like a cult leader at some point in the story and it didn’t get any better.
My only critique is that I would have liked to see more action elements throughout the book and not just in the final chapters. The twist was a nice surprise, but it was the style of writing that kept me reading. I usually prefer something with a quicker pace.
Still, I would have to have a sequel to see what happens after that unexpected finale. I will definitely be reading other books from Murray.
Thank you Blackstone Publishing via Netgalley for the e-ARC!
jules_writes's review against another edition
4.0
It wasn’t what I expected but it was a good read. The ending felt a little rushed but I loved the big reveal and final twist. I would love a sequel.
carlg88's review against another edition
1.0
Not for me. Too much of a slow starter and I found it very difficult to engage with the characters.
ciarawh's review against another edition
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
beriboo's review against another edition
fast-paced
3.0
"The Sanctuary" by Andrew Hunter Murray presents a fascinating premise in a world besieged by environmental catastrophe. The author's skilful world-building and intricate attention to detail create an immersive setting that captivates the imagination. The ecological themes are thought-provoking, offering a timely reflection on our current global challenges.
However, while the concept is intriguing, the execution at times feels weighed down by an abundance of descriptive passages, slowing the pacing and detracting from the overall momentum of the narrative. The characters, though varied, might lack the depth needed to truly engage readers on an emotional level, making it challenging to fully invest in their journeys.
Despite these drawbacks, "The Sanctuary" remains a commendable read for those interested in speculative fiction that delves into environmental issues, but it might not fully satisfy readers seeking a more balanced blend of intricate world-building and character development.
However, while the concept is intriguing, the execution at times feels weighed down by an abundance of descriptive passages, slowing the pacing and detracting from the overall momentum of the narrative. The characters, though varied, might lack the depth needed to truly engage readers on an emotional level, making it challenging to fully invest in their journeys.
Despite these drawbacks, "The Sanctuary" remains a commendable read for those interested in speculative fiction that delves into environmental issues, but it might not fully satisfy readers seeking a more balanced blend of intricate world-building and character development.
metika's review against another edition
dark
mysterious
reflective
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Diverse cast of characters? No
3.0
aroberts1997's review against another edition
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
gregalexander3's review against another edition
challenging
dark
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0