A review by vkoka89
The Stalker by Sarah Alderson

4.0

4 solid stars!

Liam and Laura are newlyweds finally taking their postponed honeymoon on a remote island off the coast of Scotland. They have the whole island to themselves for seven days and it seems like the perfect romantic getaway. But Laura can't shake the feeling that she's being watched. She brushes it off thinking the tragic history of the island is just rattling her nerves but after a few strange occurrences, both Liam and Laura quickly realize they are not alone on the island and their romantic getaway turns into a struggle to survive.

This had me on the edge of my seat until the very last page! The setting was perfect and the general creep factor was just enough for me not to get bored. I enjoyed the storyline and trying to figure out who 'the stalker' is. I had one theory but once I reached the big reveal/twist, I was genuinely surprised and caught off guard. I had to stop and reread the last few pages. It was brilliant! There were some intense moments which I believe may be triggering to some readers but I'm not sure I can say what they are without hinting towards the ending of the story.

This would have been a 5 star read for me if it weren't for a couple of things. I feel like the pacing was a bit off, especially after the big twist. I understand the perspective had to shift but it just didn't match the tone of the first half of the story. Also, I will say that something was written before the reveal that I'm not sure if it was deliberate foreshadowing but I had brushed it off as a minor typo. But it did make me stop reading and backtrack for a moment. Nonetheless it was a fun and twisty ride and I look forward to reading more from this author.

Special thanks to Netgalley and Avon Books UK for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review. The Stalker is set to be published on July 8, 2021.