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davinareads's reviews
844 reviews
Satellite Image by Michelle Berry
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
It's been a while where I've read a thriller and suspense kind of book and Satellite Image hit the spot.
Satellite Image by Michelle Berry comes out October 15, 2024 and I think if you're looking for a descriptive book that may make you a little jumpy when you go out into your own backyard in the middle of the night, then I highly recommend giving this a read.
From the start, it was a very strong opening. Michelle crafted a really detailed scene that I was able to picture everything clearly and from that moment on, I was hooked. I think it's an impressive skillset to be able to create such unease through words. When I let my dog out for his last potty break of the night, I did find myself encouraging him to come in faster so I could keep the darkness out 😂 extremely well written.
Because of how descriptive it is, I think it was successful in creating the suspense through the book. Every time a section ended, there was just enough for me keep up my interest. It made me want more. With this, the ending wrapped up nicely but I always feel like with thriller/suspense reads I'll never be fully satisfied but this came close.
Whenever I see those reactions to how a horror or thriller book can "scare" the reader, I think this would be a great example. With strong writing and details, this book managed to create a mental picture of events that made me feel nervous throughout the read. And when I did end up closing the book, that unease continued to follow me because that nervous feeling was memorable and applicable to my surroundings.
In summary, a great thriller and suspense read.
Satellite Image by Michelle Berry comes out October 15, 2024 and I think if you're looking for a descriptive book that may make you a little jumpy when you go out into your own backyard in the middle of the night, then I highly recommend giving this a read.
From the start, it was a very strong opening. Michelle crafted a really detailed scene that I was able to picture everything clearly and from that moment on, I was hooked. I think it's an impressive skillset to be able to create such unease through words. When I let my dog out for his last potty break of the night, I did find myself encouraging him to come in faster so I could keep the darkness out 😂 extremely well written.
Because of how descriptive it is, I think it was successful in creating the suspense through the book. Every time a section ended, there was just enough for me keep up my interest. It made me want more. With this, the ending wrapped up nicely but I always feel like with thriller/suspense reads I'll never be fully satisfied but this came close.
Whenever I see those reactions to how a horror or thriller book can "scare" the reader, I think this would be a great example. With strong writing and details, this book managed to create a mental picture of events that made me feel nervous throughout the read. And when I did end up closing the book, that unease continued to follow me because that nervous feeling was memorable and applicable to my surroundings.
In summary, a great thriller and suspense read.
Widow Fantasies by Hollay Ghadery
reflective
fast-paced
4.0
Widow Fantasies by Hollay Ghadery is a captivating collection of short stories that grabbed my attention right from the start. The first story hooked me instantly, making it impossible to put down—I ended up devouring the entire book in one sitting. Ghadery's writing style is incredibly engaging, and I found the pacing of the short stories just right. Each tale brings a unique perspective, showcasing a wonderful diversity of characters and experiences.
The stories blend humor and deep emotion seamlessly, delving into the lives of girls and women facing various obstacles. However, one minor struggle I had was keeping track of all the characters, especially when names were introduced quickly in some stories. This occasionally took away from the narrative flow, albeit only momentarily.
Overall, Widow Fantasies is a well-crafted collection that left me wanting more. Ghadery's ability to capture complex human experiences in such concise yet powerful narratives is truly commendable. It's a book I would enthusiastically recommend to anyone looking for compelling and thought-provoking short fiction.
The stories blend humor and deep emotion seamlessly, delving into the lives of girls and women facing various obstacles. However, one minor struggle I had was keeping track of all the characters, especially when names were introduced quickly in some stories. This occasionally took away from the narrative flow, albeit only momentarily.
Overall, Widow Fantasies is a well-crafted collection that left me wanting more. Ghadery's ability to capture complex human experiences in such concise yet powerful narratives is truly commendable. It's a book I would enthusiastically recommend to anyone looking for compelling and thought-provoking short fiction.
Sugaring Off by Fanny Britt
challenging
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0
I'm a strong believer that all books are someone's book and just because I didn't like it, doesn't make it a bad book.
That's the case with Sugaring Off. Before I go in my rambling review, I do want to promote this story to the right audience because every book, especially books from indie authors, deserves a chance to be recognized and found by those who would love this story.
I think individuals who enjoy a book that explores the slow unraveling of a relationship in a unique third person view would find this to be a powerful read. We went from what was perceived as a strong and solid relationship to a quiet but noticeable downfall resulting in our main characters to act selfishly, discarding the effect it may have on others.
While that may be the generic theme of the book, I do feel like I may have missed out on the deeper meaning. As I like to say, it's too deep for my not too deep soul. So here's my personal thoughts on Sugaring Off.
What I liked from this book that it is well-written. It had a strong and captivating voice and tone that made this read enjoyable. From time to time, I don't mind mundane reads where it's a slow down paced. The synopsis was what attracted me to this read in the first place but unfortunately for me, it wasn’t what I was expecting.
While the presence of the writer is strong, there were too many run on sentences that was very long winded taking away from the book. From a story perspective, nothing really stood out to me as memorable.
The characters I couldn't get myself to like, especially Adam. Perhaps this was the authors intent as the layers of these individuals were striped off following the incident. However, I didn't really like them from the start so it didn't do anything for me.
As I reached the end, I was expecting some sort on conclusion but left the book feeling confused as I'm not certain what the ending is supposed to convey.
Overall, I can see Sugaring Off being successful for a certian set of readers. I'm just not one of them. I do still encourage you to check it out because again, it may be something that interests you.
That's the case with Sugaring Off. Before I go in my rambling review, I do want to promote this story to the right audience because every book, especially books from indie authors, deserves a chance to be recognized and found by those who would love this story.
I think individuals who enjoy a book that explores the slow unraveling of a relationship in a unique third person view would find this to be a powerful read. We went from what was perceived as a strong and solid relationship to a quiet but noticeable downfall resulting in our main characters to act selfishly, discarding the effect it may have on others.
While that may be the generic theme of the book, I do feel like I may have missed out on the deeper meaning. As I like to say, it's too deep for my not too deep soul. So here's my personal thoughts on Sugaring Off.
What I liked from this book that it is well-written. It had a strong and captivating voice and tone that made this read enjoyable. From time to time, I don't mind mundane reads where it's a slow down paced. The synopsis was what attracted me to this read in the first place but unfortunately for me, it wasn’t what I was expecting.
While the presence of the writer is strong, there were too many run on sentences that was very long winded taking away from the book. From a story perspective, nothing really stood out to me as memorable.
The characters I couldn't get myself to like, especially Adam. Perhaps this was the authors intent as the layers of these individuals were striped off following the incident. However, I didn't really like them from the start so it didn't do anything for me.
As I reached the end, I was expecting some sort on conclusion but left the book feeling confused as I'm not certain what the ending is supposed to convey.
Overall, I can see Sugaring Off being successful for a certian set of readers. I'm just not one of them. I do still encourage you to check it out because again, it may be something that interests you.
The Lost Story by Meg Shaffer
adventurous
emotional
funny
lighthearted
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
5.0
The only way I can describe this book is whimsical. It's a book for the ones who grew up with Narnia and forgot about it. Or as C.S. Lewis wrote it perfectly, "Some day you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again."
And people! Meg Shaffer has an uncanny ability to drag me back to this nostalgic time in my childhood where my parents and teachers would read books to me about kids running into wardrobes to end up in a magical world, flying out of the windows to fight pirates or simply clicking ruby red shoes three times to return to Kansas. The Lost Story gave me that childhood feeling again that I didn't know I missed until it was given to me.
If I was sticking to the typical way I review books, a star would have been dropped because the writing wasn't the strongest. In a weird way, the writing felt like when you’re laying in bed at night and making up scenarios with not the best dialogue but you don't really care because you got a plot to go through. The age of the characters and the dialogue felt off in a sense where it was almost childlike and kind of edging towards YA to the middle school range where the intended target audience is for adults.
I point this out as the only thing that felt a bit odd to me but the crazy thing about this was, I didn't care. The story and the ideas was there and that took me on an incredible adventure where magic is still a thing.
From the prologue, I knew that this will be as an enjoyable read as Meg's first book The Wishing Game and I wasn't disappointed. The prologue gave me goosebumps from the start and the characters were easily loveable. I love the world of Shanandoah and the story created was light but filled with emotion.
Overall, if you're looking for a book that can bring you back to a sliver of your childhood, I'd recommend The Lost Story. Again, I would advise that the writing isn't the most solid but I think you'll find yourself in a fairytale where the writing didn't matter that much because you're enjoying the story.
And people! Meg Shaffer has an uncanny ability to drag me back to this nostalgic time in my childhood where my parents and teachers would read books to me about kids running into wardrobes to end up in a magical world, flying out of the windows to fight pirates or simply clicking ruby red shoes three times to return to Kansas. The Lost Story gave me that childhood feeling again that I didn't know I missed until it was given to me.
If I was sticking to the typical way I review books, a star would have been dropped because the writing wasn't the strongest. In a weird way, the writing felt like when you’re laying in bed at night and making up scenarios with not the best dialogue but you don't really care because you got a plot to go through. The age of the characters and the dialogue felt off in a sense where it was almost childlike and kind of edging towards YA to the middle school range where the intended target audience is for adults.
I point this out as the only thing that felt a bit odd to me but the crazy thing about this was, I didn't care. The story and the ideas was there and that took me on an incredible adventure where magic is still a thing.
From the prologue, I knew that this will be as an enjoyable read as Meg's first book The Wishing Game and I wasn't disappointed. The prologue gave me goosebumps from the start and the characters were easily loveable. I love the world of Shanandoah and the story created was light but filled with emotion.
Overall, if you're looking for a book that can bring you back to a sliver of your childhood, I'd recommend The Lost Story. Again, I would advise that the writing isn't the most solid but I think you'll find yourself in a fairytale where the writing didn't matter that much because you're enjoying the story.
The Name She Gave Me by Betty Culley
emotional
lighthearted
sad
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
5.0
The Name She Gave me is simply a beautiful YA contemporary book that made me sad and happy at the same time. I loved it.
Before you think of poems being complex to understand, this is not the case with this novel. I'm not sure what style of writing this is but it's essentially telling a full story in short poetry form and it was extremely well done.
I think it's a skill to tell such an emotional story in so little words and a great example that a short read can still leave an impact on the reader. In 400 pages, I felt joy, sadness, anger and the bittersweet moments for Rynn as she goes on her journey to find her birthmother which eventually leads her to discovering that she has a sister as well.
I loved how Betty managed to not only capture me emotionally, but I think she did a fantastic job in describing the endless summer vibe in a small country town. From the start, I knew this was going to be a good read but I wasn't expecting to love it this much.
If you're looking into a short novel, I highly recommend checking The Name She Gave Me. It can easily be read in a day or if you're like me, you'll take a slow down pace to get through it in a couple of days to appreciate every single word that made it in this novel.
Before you think of poems being complex to understand, this is not the case with this novel. I'm not sure what style of writing this is but it's essentially telling a full story in short poetry form and it was extremely well done.
I think it's a skill to tell such an emotional story in so little words and a great example that a short read can still leave an impact on the reader. In 400 pages, I felt joy, sadness, anger and the bittersweet moments for Rynn as she goes on her journey to find her birthmother which eventually leads her to discovering that she has a sister as well.
I loved how Betty managed to not only capture me emotionally, but I think she did a fantastic job in describing the endless summer vibe in a small country town. From the start, I knew this was going to be a good read but I wasn't expecting to love it this much.
If you're looking into a short novel, I highly recommend checking The Name She Gave Me. It can easily be read in a day or if you're like me, you'll take a slow down pace to get through it in a couple of days to appreciate every single word that made it in this novel.
Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
I think because of the previous books I've read - The Book Thief, We, the Drowned - I couldn’t find myself getting into this read because I landed myself in reading slump alley. This book's pacing and writing style wasn't strong enough to catch my attention to drag me out.
Middlesex is a 500 some page read that felt long for numerous reasons. One of them being the writing style. I couldn't get myself into it because it felt very dry and emotionless. It was easy to read, but it felt monotone in delivering its story.
Around 50 pages in, I wasn't sure if I wanted to countinue and perhaps that may have been my sign to stop. However, because this was a longer read and very highly rated by others, I decided to stick with it for a little while longer to the point where I was too many pages in to DNF it.
While the plot moved in a slow but relatively seamless timeline, I didn't see the need to jump back to the present from time to time with who Cal is now and what's he up to. There felt like there was no real need for it and I felt like it didn't add much to the book. The events that took place was written in a way that it was being told to me - in a style where it went "this happened and then this, and then this"- rathed than adding descriptions to make me feel like I was there with our main characters.
With all of this said, the thing that I liked most would be part 4 of this book. That is what I wanted but it was too short and too late having been the last part of the story. I felt like here was what I came. I think while it was good to include parts of the previous sections, I felt like they were too long and perhaps not everything was as relevant as it needed to be.
If you're looking for a book that spans three generations and has true girth and emotion, I would suggest checking out We, the Drowned over this. This comparison may not be overly fair considering We, The Drowned is an adventure book while this is more on the literature side. I just feel like We, The Drowned did a much better job at incorporating three generations of story into a cohesive and meaningful read over what was done here.
However, if you love the pacing and writing style of The Goldfinch (which I also didn't enjoy as much as others), this book may be for you. The pacing felt similar and it's a character based story as well.
Overall, this story wasn't for me because I didn't feel as emotional or invested in it as I have been with other books I've read so far this year.
Middlesex is a 500 some page read that felt long for numerous reasons. One of them being the writing style. I couldn't get myself into it because it felt very dry and emotionless. It was easy to read, but it felt monotone in delivering its story.
Around 50 pages in, I wasn't sure if I wanted to countinue and perhaps that may have been my sign to stop. However, because this was a longer read and very highly rated by others, I decided to stick with it for a little while longer to the point where I was too many pages in to DNF it.
While the plot moved in a slow but relatively seamless timeline, I didn't see the need to jump back to the present from time to time with who Cal is now and what's he up to. There felt like there was no real need for it and I felt like it didn't add much to the book. The events that took place was written in a way that it was being told to me - in a style where it went "this happened and then this, and then this"- rathed than adding descriptions to make me feel like I was there with our main characters.
With all of this said, the thing that I liked most would be part 4 of this book. That is what I wanted but it was too short and too late having been the last part of the story. I felt like here was what I came. I think while it was good to include parts of the previous sections, I felt like they were too long and perhaps not everything was as relevant as it needed to be.
If you're looking for a book that spans three generations and has true girth and emotion, I would suggest checking out We, the Drowned over this. This comparison may not be overly fair considering We, The Drowned is an adventure book while this is more on the literature side. I just feel like We, The Drowned did a much better job at incorporating three generations of story into a cohesive and meaningful read over what was done here.
However, if you love the pacing and writing style of The Goldfinch (which I also didn't enjoy as much as others), this book may be for you. The pacing felt similar and it's a character based story as well.
Overall, this story wasn't for me because I didn't feel as emotional or invested in it as I have been with other books I've read so far this year.
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
dark
emotional
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
The Book Thief has been sitting on my TBR for years. I was always interested in picking it up but never found myself doing it. I have so much regret for not reading it sooner.
The number of times I've heard that this book will make me cry did make me hesitant in picking it up because I didn't want to be disappointed. I didn't want to go in, expecting tears to only come out with dry eyes.
And once again, I was proven wrong because I cried nonstop all the way to end. It has been a while where a book made me ugly cry. I'm talking about snotty filled noes and tear stained glasses.
I wasn't sure what I was expecting but it certainly was not what I read. The first thing that took me by surprised was the narrator of this story is "death" and he tells us one of the most heart-wrenching stories about a little girl named Liesel - our Book Thief - during the rein of Hitler.
Through the whole book, it was me mumbling the quiest and saddest "ohs" and it kept building up. I loved every character in this book that at the end it hurts. "Death" gave so many warnings about the ending but it did nothing to prepare for the pain.
Markus Zusak knows how to write a book that punches you in the face. The slow build up and character development solidify the emotional build up that it is impossible for the reader to not feel anything.
An amazing story that was filled with childhood innocence, grief, love and the depressing and crippling times of war. If you're like me and have been thinking if you should pick this up, the answer is a solid and resounding yes. Prepare your tissues because you will cry.
The number of times I've heard that this book will make me cry did make me hesitant in picking it up because I didn't want to be disappointed. I didn't want to go in, expecting tears to only come out with dry eyes.
And once again, I was proven wrong because I cried nonstop all the way to end. It has been a while where a book made me ugly cry. I'm talking about snotty filled noes and tear stained glasses.
I wasn't sure what I was expecting but it certainly was not what I read. The first thing that took me by surprised was the narrator of this story is "death" and he tells us one of the most heart-wrenching stories about a little girl named Liesel - our Book Thief - during the rein of Hitler.
Through the whole book, it was me mumbling the quiest and saddest "ohs" and it kept building up. I loved every character in this book that at the end it hurts. "Death" gave so many warnings about the ending but it did nothing to prepare for the pain.
Markus Zusak knows how to write a book that punches you in the face. The slow build up and character development solidify the emotional build up that it is impossible for the reader to not feel anything.
An amazing story that was filled with childhood innocence, grief, love and the depressing and crippling times of war. If you're like me and have been thinking if you should pick this up, the answer is a solid and resounding yes. Prepare your tissues because you will cry.
The Widow's Crayon Box by Molly Peacock
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
4.0
I just finished reading The Widow's Crayon Box - Poems and I have to say, it's beautifully written.
The poetry is easy to understand, which is something I really appreciate. The way it flows from one event to the next makes the whole story clear and cohesive. I didn't struggle to figure out the meaning it was trying to convey and I think that itself, for a poetry book, is a success. It's the balance of having pretty words to form a stong story.
What struck me most was how well thought out the poems are. There are so many moments that felt quote-worthy, capturing deep emotions and experiences. The collection tells the story of Molly watching her husband pass away from cancer, her experience as his caretaker, and how she continues to live without him. This again, was all successful captured in this short poetry book.
Overall, it's a moving and accessible read that captures the complexity of grief and love with simplicity and grace in a small but powerful package. I highly recommend giving this a read.
The poetry is easy to understand, which is something I really appreciate. The way it flows from one event to the next makes the whole story clear and cohesive. I didn't struggle to figure out the meaning it was trying to convey and I think that itself, for a poetry book, is a success. It's the balance of having pretty words to form a stong story.
What struck me most was how well thought out the poems are. There are so many moments that felt quote-worthy, capturing deep emotions and experiences. The collection tells the story of Molly watching her husband pass away from cancer, her experience as his caretaker, and how she continues to live without him. This again, was all successful captured in this short poetry book.
Overall, it's a moving and accessible read that captures the complexity of grief and love with simplicity and grace in a small but powerful package. I highly recommend giving this a read.
Margo's Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Margo's Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe is a refreshing and modern take on the classic story of a young woman facing the challenges of adulthood and motherhood. In this humorous and touching novel, we follow Margo, a new mom struggling to make ends meet, as she navigates the ups and downs of being broke and trying to support her newborn son.
What really stood out to me about this book is how Rufi Thorpe takes a seemingly generic storyline and breathes new life into it with her unique twist. The characters are memorable, the ideas are fresh, and the entire story feels incredibly relevant to today's world. Margo is a character who feels very real, and her struggles are both relevant and heart-wrenching.
One of the strongest aspects of the book is its exploration of themes that are often overlooked in mainstream literature. The story delves into the philosophy of sex work, especially when the sex worker is a parent, and challenges societal perceptions in a way that feels both necessary and powerful. The messages in this book deserve to be heard far and wide.
I also can't praise the writing enough. It's sharp, engaging, and full of wit. The chemistry between Margo and her father, Jinx, is particularly endearing. Their relationship adds a layer of warmth and authenticity to the story that I absolutely loved.
Overall, Margo's Got Money Troubles is a well-written, thought-provoking, and incredibly enjoyable read. Rufi Thorpe has crafted a story that is both unique and timeless, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a book that will make you laugh, think, and maybe even shed a tear or two.
What really stood out to me about this book is how Rufi Thorpe takes a seemingly generic storyline and breathes new life into it with her unique twist. The characters are memorable, the ideas are fresh, and the entire story feels incredibly relevant to today's world. Margo is a character who feels very real, and her struggles are both relevant and heart-wrenching.
One of the strongest aspects of the book is its exploration of themes that are often overlooked in mainstream literature. The story delves into the philosophy of sex work, especially when the sex worker is a parent, and challenges societal perceptions in a way that feels both necessary and powerful. The messages in this book deserve to be heard far and wide.
I also can't praise the writing enough. It's sharp, engaging, and full of wit. The chemistry between Margo and her father, Jinx, is particularly endearing. Their relationship adds a layer of warmth and authenticity to the story that I absolutely loved.
Overall, Margo's Got Money Troubles is a well-written, thought-provoking, and incredibly enjoyable read. Rufi Thorpe has crafted a story that is both unique and timeless, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a book that will make you laugh, think, and maybe even shed a tear or two.
We, the Drowned by Carsten Jensen
adventurous
dark
emotional
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Finishing We, the Drowned felt like coming ashore after an epic, unforgettable journey. This book takes you on a whirlwind of sea adventures, spanning three generations of sailors and it was a story that is like no other. It was brutal hardship after brutal hardship starting from the early 1848s in Marstal, Denmark to the end of WWII.
The way Carsten Jensen writes, it's like each chapter is its own short story, yet they all come together to form this grand, cohesive narrative. Just when I thought things might slow down, the pace picked right back up, keeping me hooked and I found myself seasawing from a 4 star rating to a 5. Ultimately, I settled for a 4.5 star rating.
Describing why I loved this book is a bit tricky. It was more of an experience than just a read—something that I think fellow readers will truly understand. The characters are lovable, and their stories are rich and full. We explored their childhoods - from the beatings the teachers gave to the antics they get to among friends - and followed them to adulthood where they meet challenges of dealing with hierarchy, power and the war. It was a perfectly balanced book with an addicted storyline.
This book is the definition of bittersweet. The journey through three generations of sailors is filled with highs and lows, triumphs and tragedies. It had a constant flow that was maintained throughout this 700 page book and I found it to be an impressive story. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and if you love a good sea adventure with depth and heart, We, the Drowned is a must-read.
The way Carsten Jensen writes, it's like each chapter is its own short story, yet they all come together to form this grand, cohesive narrative. Just when I thought things might slow down, the pace picked right back up, keeping me hooked and I found myself seasawing from a 4 star rating to a 5. Ultimately, I settled for a 4.5 star rating.
Describing why I loved this book is a bit tricky. It was more of an experience than just a read—something that I think fellow readers will truly understand. The characters are lovable, and their stories are rich and full. We explored their childhoods - from the beatings the teachers gave to the antics they get to among friends - and followed them to adulthood where they meet challenges of dealing with hierarchy, power and the war. It was a perfectly balanced book with an addicted storyline.
This book is the definition of bittersweet. The journey through three generations of sailors is filled with highs and lows, triumphs and tragedies. It had a constant flow that was maintained throughout this 700 page book and I found it to be an impressive story. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and if you love a good sea adventure with depth and heart, We, the Drowned is a must-read.