“It starts as a low croon that rolls in with the tide, a sound so faint it might just be the wind blowing through the clapboard shutters, through the portholes of docked fishing boats, and into narrow cracks along sagging doorways. But after the first night, the harmony of voices becomes undeniable. An enchanting hymn sailing over the water’s surface, cool and soft and alluring. The Swan sisters have awakened.”
The Wicked Deep is a little book that packs a punch. It’s more than just a pretty cover. Ernshaw stole the show and I’ll be anticipating her next book which, if Instagram will tell you anything, she is working on right now.
I do have a few complaints. Some areas and story points leaves one unsatisfied. Though small in size, I feel like the biggest complaint, with me and the book club, was the male protagonist’s name. What boy, who lives close enough to sail regularly on Lake Washington, would be called Bo? I may be nit-picking here, but I live in Washington, and I really don’t think that anyone west of the Cascades would name their kid Bo in this day and age. Ok, rant over….
...Or is it?
The second major problem will need to be tiptoed around. I can’t go into detail because a huge portion of the story will be revealed. It’s a good way in, and I think you’ll know it when you hit it. Essentially, there is no foreshadowing of a huge reveal. I’m not saying that surprises aren’t great, I love them, but this specific surprise left a feeling of betrayal and gave the rest of the story a nasty taste. But maybe that was Ernshaw’s point? She wanted us to have those emotions.
Ignoring those two complaints though - I really hope you’re still with me - this story swept me away.
*no pun intended*
“Love is an enchantress - devious and wild. It sneaks up behind you, soft and gentle and quiet, just before it slits your throat.”
*just like this book sweeps you into its folds*
I didn’t want to put it down. It’s dark in all the right places. The backstory is well laid out at all the right times. The characters are very compelling. Their motivations strong and real. We see change and desire which drives the story forward. Even writing this review makes me want to dive in for another read. It’s the type of story that sticks with you even well after it’s over.
The real winner in the book is Ernshaw’s writing. Her word choice on even the tiniest parts lends to the well-crafted story and attention to detail on the descriptions. I think her decision of picking a location she knows well, Oregon, and using that was also a smart move. It gave her the ability to show the feelings of the Pacific Northwest in a clear and concise way. She just conveys what she wants with such depth that at times you’re drenched by the constant rain or feel the mist float in off the water.
All in all, I’m really glad I took the chance and purchased the book. Most of the time I’ll just borrow them and then decide. Goodreads rating of 4 stars.
Reading Challenge: 31/100.