** I received an ARC for an honest review **
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Description
ORKNEY ISLANDS, 1797 – Agnes Tulloch feels a little cheated. This windswept place is not the island paradise her husband promised it to be when they wed. Now with four young children, she struggles to provide for her family while her husband grows increasingly distant.
When a stranger comes ashore to rent an abandoned cottage, Agnes and the other islanders are abuzz with curiosity. Who is this wealthy foreigner and why on earth would he come to Eynhallow? Her curiosity is soon replaced with vexation when her husband hires her out as cook and washerwoman, leaving Agnes with no say in the matter. Agnes begrudgingly befriends this aristocrat-in-exile; a mercurial scientist who toils night and day on some secret pursuit. Despite herself, she’s drawn to his dark, brooding charm. And who is this Byronic stranger sweeping Agnes off her feet? His name is Frankenstein and he’s come to this remote isle to fulfill a monstrous obligation.
Summary
I was delighted to read Eynhallow by Tim McGregor, a historical and gothic horror reimagining of the classic Frankenstein story.
Review
McGregor crafts a great atmospheric gothic horror novella revisiting the story of Mary Shelley’s classic Frankenstein but with a unique take on the tale.
The characters are compelling and the historical setting is well-rendered with the Orkney Islands landscape an embodiment of a character itself. The conclusion was really strong and perfectly executed. This might be short novel but there is so much packed into it and not a word or scene unwasted.
A well-written and perfectly executed addition to the gothic horror genre.
Conclusion
A highly recommend read for fans of atmospheric historical fiction, gothic horror, strong characters and a new twist on a classic story.
** This is my personal opinion and does not reflect any judging decisions **
Leanbh Pearson 