A review by marylannireads
The Dark of the Void by Aakash Gupte

adventurous dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

4.0

The summer after high school is supposed to be a time of freedom and exploration, and August and his friends intend to take advantage of their newfound independence with a three week trip to Ireland. Even before arriving, however, strange things begin happening to the six companions, and each new development sends their adventure in a more sinister direction. When fingers are pointed at the Americans for a crime they did not commit, they are forced to flee Dublin to follow the only lead they have that might be able to keep them safe. Every turn they take brings the companions closer to an uncertain future, and they must rely on their friendship with one another in order to survive. This first installment in the Stargazers series introduces readers to six newly graduated American students who are the focus of the narrative. Told in several parts, the novel incorporates multiple points of view, alternating between voices as the momentum of the story presses forward. A diverse cast of characters and a plethora of global locations give this novel a complex and dynamic foundation, and as soon as readers think they know what will happen next, the plot turns in a different direction. Strong language, occasional violence and peril, and discussion of mental health issues make the novel best suited to mature readers. What begins as a book with the feel of a teen horror movie quickly transitions into a story that is much more nuanced, incorporating a touch of the supernatural and archaeological secrets. While the novel is lengthy, the plot moves quickly enough to be engaging, and readers will look forward to the following installment. This is an enjoyable series starter that is well suited to mature new adult readers with an interest in immersive storytelling.