A review by mylocalghxst
Eynhallow by Tim McGregor

dark emotional mysterious 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

4.75

It was fairly enjoyable, and I found myself caring for Agnes in a way that can only be found through a limited narrative through her eyes. I feel like no matter what was happening, I had a sense of dread with each sentence, even during the more exciting moments with Victor.

His character was pretty interesting given what little we got to learn of him. Part of me wishes there was more, but given what happens I’m not sure that anything more of him was needed. All in all, he acted exactly as he was described to be throughout the book, so you can’t really expect much more out of him. He was on the run from his creature, and that desire to flew wouldn’t leave simply because he made another (if anything it would grow).

The ending was both satisfying and not, but I think it again made sense for the book just like Victor’s actions did towards the end. I’m only unhappy due to the care I felt for Agnes, even if I knew what would become of her as I was reading. It is disheartening to see someone you followed over the course of nearly 200 pages be left alone with truly nothing for centuries to come. Of course, a selfish part of me wishes for some monstrous happily ever after in some capacity, or for Agnes to find peace, but I don’t think she would have found that even if the creature and Victor hadn’t turned her into what she became.

All in all, I have a lot of conflicting feelings about this book and how it played out, but it all was in a way that made sense, and that I’m mostly satisfied. Going into it blind feels like both a blessing and a curse, as some of my baseless expectations weren’t met, but the cluelessness really drove me to each next page.