A review by questionablereads
The Merry Dredgers by Jeremy C. Shipp

adventurous dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

(ARC review) This is a great cult/horror story that truly had me on the edge of my seat. We follow the story of Phina as she tries to unravel the story behind her sister Eff’s unexpected coma. Through letters Phina learns that Eff has been living with a cult that currently resides in a once-abandoned amusement park. The amusement park is so creepy and fascinating, and an entire character on its own. The only way Phina believes she can learn the truth about her sister is if she joins said cult, which she does, and we are blessed with bizarre and off kilter members who are big on meditation and distance from the world around them. They operate much like a retreat, and create their own fun with singing, cooking and storytelling. As a reader, It’s hard not to form a bond with these loveable weirdos, even though they are all on the potential suspect list. Jeremey Shipp’s characters are so unique, yet all have a looming darkness within them, making this story such a macabre read. The book does deal with family trauma, and a deep desire for a connection to others. So while yes, it is a horror read, it’s also a journey about finding yourself and your people.