A review by stephs_cozycorner
Grave Matter by Karina Halle

dark mysterious tense medium-paced

4.5

What the heck did I just read ?!?!?

This is a gothic psychological thriller set in a secluded isolated lodge on an inlet of Vancouver Island.   

The lodge is home to the Madrona Foundation, a prestigious foundation working on Alzheimer’s research.  

Sidney Denik is an aspiring mycologist who goes to the island on a scholarship to work with some of the most brilliant scientists in the Madrona labs.  

Stranded on the island, shrouded in fog almost daily, and with no way of communicating with the outside world, Sydney starts to question everything and everyone around her, ghosts are lurking and strange things are happening. 

And Sidney can’t stop fantasizing about her professor (and doctor) on the island who she cannot trust.  The romantic tension and sexual chemistry between Syndney and Kincaid was the *chefs kiss*.   🌶️🌶️🥵

The island and the lodge were characters all on their own.    I had the chills and goosebumps reading and picturing this setting and the surroundings.    Halle did such a fantastic job of making you feel like you were there.  

I was captivated from beginning to end.   It’s been a long time since I read a book in one day.  That ending absolutely blindsided me, not once did I see that twist coming.   🤯

I am so thankful I had the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book with the ‘It’s (Most Likely) Spicy Book Club’ with @shes.booked and @novellybritt.    I am looking forward to our chat. 

Thank you so much @authorhalle for sending us a #gifted copy.  The cover is absolutely stunning and gorgeous in person 💜🩵