lauraorourke's profile picture

lauraorourke 's review for:

Something in the Water by Catherine Steadman
3.0
mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

This book was fine. The writing felt interesting right from the beginning. Steadman draws the reader in by breaking the fourth wall. The story is generally propelling. But there are big plot points that don't even get resolved for the reader, which feels a little lazy, honestly. I feel if there is going to be a plane found in the water and a thumb drive worth killing for, I feel like the author has to use her creativity to give the reader more information about those things.

In terms of theme, it feels like Steadman is examining what makes someone good or bad, how easy it is to make decisions that lead you down the wrong path, and perhaps how marriage and motherhood can limit a woman's freedom. That said, I'm not sure if the themes went as deep as I would have liked.

I didn't find the plot itself objectionable and enjoyed my time reading it; however, I really don't feel like there is much substance here.