A review by bandysbooks
After the Fire by Will Hill

challenging dark emotional reflective sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

Moonbeam has recently escaped what was a bloody massacre on the compound of the cult she grew up in. She’s haunted not only by the deaths, but some deeply buried secrets as well. This book explores her experiences within the cult and her trauma after the cult has been broken up.

I liked how this book utilized flashbacks as the character narrating her story to her doctor. It flowed pretty well and was easy to keep track of. 

I also like how we see the progression of thoughts in Moonbeams mind as different things occur. She doesn’t wake up one morning and simply feel a certain way. She develops thoughts and feelings over periods of time. It made her come across as thoughtful instead of impulsive.

Also, this cult was so creepy! I know it was based off of the Branch Davidians and Waco Texas, but i thought the author did a good job of distinguishing the cult in his writing from its inspiration.  

All in all, an interesting and moving read. A bit predictable at points, but still good.
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