A review by fiction_aficionado
Forsaken Island by Sharon Hinck

4.0

Forsaken Island, the second book in Sharon Hinck’s Dancing Realms series, takes readers into a lush but mysterious world that invites them to ponder the paradoxical relationship between joy and pain. Does a carefree life translate to ultimate happiness, or is true joy only able to be experienced when one also opens oneself to the possibility of pain? While this story is definitely pitched at a young adult audience, it’s a question that resonates with people of all ages, and I love that this series has broached some deep theological topics (legalism vs grace in Hidden Current, and joy vs pain in Forsaken Island) in a way that is accessible to young and old alike.

For Brantley and Carya, the journey is testing in ways beyond the physical. Are they willing to put their trust in a Maker whose ways they don’t always understand? And to heed His voice above their own reasoning? I found myself unable to anticipate what was coming throughout this story in much the same way as Brantley and Carya, which meant that I really entered into their experiences and emotions as they explored the forsaken island and sought to understand the people and their way of life. Hinck’s lyrical prose and uncomplicated yet immersive worldbuilding make this an enjoyable read for all ages.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.