What better for Halloween than a horror novel about young girls isolated on an island off of Maine because of a disease breakout (the Tox) where not just the animals are morphing and becoming more violent, but so are the girls.
This book is dark, twisted, creepy, and deeply engaging. I caught my legs shaking with eager anticipation for what would happen next and I was always on the edge of my seat. I got big Maze Runner vibes from this book but it was far more satisfying and way more intriguing. A book about an all girl school with intense friendships, alliances, queer relationships, and honest portrayals of putting one’s self/needs before anyone else. This has opened me up to a completely new genre of YA, Queer Horror, and I am here for it.
I know this was touted as a Lord of the Flies remake, but I didn’t really get that vibe throughout the book. Maybe it’s because I picked up more Maze Runner vibes, but regardless, this book is wicked.
Rory Power did something amazing for me this year, she brought out a book that challenged a lot of stereotypes, that showed the complexities of love in all of its forms, and she made me realize that I actually enjoy reading horror novels, who knew? If you’re looking for something to give you a bit of a thrill, a bit of a chill, and leave you on the edge of your seat, Pick. This. Book. Up.