Reviewed by Aimee
I absolutely adored Stuart Turton’s novel The Devil and the Dark Water for many many reasons, not the least of which is the amazing plot twists that lead to a truly shocking finale. After recommendations from multiple friends with similar reading interests, I decided that I just had to read this book, and boy am I glad I did! Another reviewer touted Turton’s novel as “genre-bending” and not only do I love that term, but I wholeheartedly agree with its use in this instance. Devil and Dark Water combines elements of Mystery, Historical Fiction, Science Fiction, and Fantasy for an unforgettable reading experience. The characters are well drawn out and interesting and the plot keeps the reader on their toes. I love the dynamic of having Samuel Pipps, who is a great detective, locked away as an accused prisoner and having to solve the mystery through his associate Hayes. The two are on a voyage back to Amsterdam from the East Indies for Sammy’s trial, along with a cast of interesting and mysterious fellow passengers. When strange occurrences begin early in the voyage, the crew is convinced that a curse is afoot, but is there more to the odd events than meets the eye? Sammy and Hayes will need to find out quickly if the ship is to make it to its destination. The setting for this novel is fantastic, and with so many twists and turns to explore you’ll never want to put it down! Turton’s first novel, The 7 ½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle is another great read, and I can’t wait to see what he comes up with next.
