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A review by cosymidlifebooknook
The Island by Victoria Hislop
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
I read this book when it was first published in paperback, and it's remained in my top 10 favourite reads. I adore a book set in the Mediterranean especially when it's based on true historical events.
I adored the vivid portrayal of Crete, and Victoria Hislop's ability to transport me to the heart of the story. The characters felt like old friends, and the historical backdrop of Spinalonga gave a fascinating glimpse into a real place and time in history. The incredible attention to detail, both in the depiction of daily life on the island and in the medical references to curing the disease were fascinating. Despite the heartbreak woven into the fabric of the story, there was always an undercurrent of hope and resilience that left me feeling uplifted and inspired long after I turned the final page
I adored the vivid portrayal of Crete, and Victoria Hislop's ability to transport me to the heart of the story. The characters felt like old friends, and the historical backdrop of Spinalonga gave a fascinating glimpse into a real place and time in history. The incredible attention to detail, both in the depiction of daily life on the island and in the medical references to curing the disease were fascinating. Despite the heartbreak woven into the fabric of the story, there was always an undercurrent of hope and resilience that left me feeling uplifted and inspired long after I turned the final page