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The Boat
A young couple on the trip of a lifetime become trapped in a nightmare when they board a stranger's boat Johnny and his new bride Clem have arrived in Turkey for a year-long honeymoon. Young and blissfully happy, but poor, they are surviving on love, luck, and a spirit of adventure. So when a boat appears out of a raging storm, crewed by a bohemian couple who represent everything Johnny and Clem want to be, they do not think twice about stepping on board. But all is not as it seems. And when they finally open their eyes to the truth, the boat is in the middle of the vast open sea. With echoes of The Beach , this is a hypnotic, emotionally charged novel about two sweet young lovers who lose their innocence in paradise.
352 pages, Paperback
First published January 14, 2013
13 people are currently reading
591 people want to read
About the author
Clara Salaman
5 books11 followersClara Salaman is a novelist, screenwriter and actress. She is best known for her role as DS Clare Stanton in The Bill, for which she was nominated for Best Actress at the National Television Awards.
She was born in North London and raised in a cult.
She was born in North London and raised in a cult.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
January 20, 2016
The Blue, by Lucy Clarke, was one of the best stories that I read in 2015, & but three weeks into 2016 it is already clear that Clara Salaman’s The Boat will be in my top echelon this year. An extremely attractive couple of teenage newly-weds are enjoying a travelling honeymoon hitchhiking round the Med. Johnny a keen dingy sailor with some deepwater experience delivering yachts, & the 17 y/o Clemency (called ‘Clem’) are madly in love & surviving on pick up jobs, the latest of which in Turkey involved deep-sixing a lot of expensive & probably hot items that result in their being on the run from a bunch of plug uglies. Fortunately Johnny & Clem find their way onto a 30’ sailing yacht with the unlikely name Little Utopia, the floating home of an English family, Frank & Annie & their 5 y/o dtr Imogene (called ‘Smudge’).
As they cruise along the Turkish coast, life aboard the yacht appears idyllic. Frank & Annie are generous with food & (quite plentiful) drink, Smudge is an inquisitive & attractive child, & Johnny & Clem make themselves quite useful supplying nautical expertise Frank surprisingly lacks - he doesn’t even know how to sail! But it is not long before we start hearing ominous chords in the background. (Appropriately, when we first hear the voice of Annie, she’s singing ‘Bad Moon Rising’!) Tho’ the setting is contemporary, Frank sounds like he’s straight out of the Esalen Inst. or Tavistock Sq. ca. 1970 & it’s clear that Frank & Annie have what was then termed an ‘open marriage’. Slowly, tho’, as his jealousy mounts, Johnny discovers that worse, much worse,than adultery may be occurring aboard Little Utopia, but who is he to believe?
I most loved The Blue for the on-board relationships & moral issues & in the case of The Boat these are torqued even tighter. What was very close up in The Blue feels claustrophobic here & when Johnny senses an overwhelming impulse to get himself & Clem off that boat, the reader empathizes completely. Sometimes I simply had to turn off the audio - listening was too intense, esp. whilst trying to drive a car. As in The Blue, the question isn’t whether to notify ‘the Authorities’ as landsmen in civilised societies are supposed to do when something bad or criminal comes to notice. At sea it’s ‘What Authorities?’ as the author has Clem ask. Not much in way of police - not to mention child protective services - out in the Med off the Anatolian coast.
Readers will surely differ in their judgements on how Johnny finally deals with both what has been ongoing aboard Little Utopia & in his relationship with Clem. If you read my review of The Blue, you’ll not be surprised that I thought Johnny’s handling of matters involving Frank was absolutely dead-on right. Sometimes there is only one thing for a real sailor to do: Cast the legalisms over the side & then take care of business, whatever that may entail. (In another era I can imagine Johnny captaining an armed merchant brig off the Javanese coast like Tom Lingard in Conrad’s The Rescue.)
As for Johnny & Clem’s relationship, so often I wanted to shout ‘Please don’t do it. Don’t do that!’) @ both of them @ different times. but when each of them does something foolish or thoughtless, it is absolutely in character: Johnny, as fits a good sailor, too exacting, & Clem, as a very free spirit, too impulsive & giving.
Artistically there are some flaws; Lucy Clarke is a better sailor (at least within the covers of a book) than Clara Salaman. I cannot believe that Frank had only motored, never sailed, before. (I quite agree with Johnny about motors - once you turn on the engine the most graceful sailing yacht morphs hideously into the Hong Kong-Macao ferry - as I learnt spending a week crewing my brother’s father-in-law’s no-so-graceful motor sailer once upon a time, when I also broke another of my rules Johnny & Clem learnt the hard way, never crew for a skipper who knows less about sailing than you do!) Sometimes I wondered about the author’s nautical vocabulary. One ‘hoists’ or ‘raises’ sails - one doesn’t ‘put them up’ like overnight guests. Also yacht sails haven’t been made of canvas since synthetic fabrics were introduced in the 1950s.
Leon Williams narrated in what sounded to me like perfect Estuary dialect, which is precisely what these English characters ought to speak, & I loved listening for what linguists call non-rhoticity, intrusive-R, & L-vocalisation (to my North American ear, ‘saw’ sounded like ‘soar’ & ‘Fireball’ like ‘fibreboard’) But for some strange reason, Williams pronounced every nautical term with an over-exaggerated (I always thought that expression an illiterate pleonasm till now) emphasis on every syllable that you’d never hear from the mouth of any real sailor on either side the Atlantic, who’d pronounce ‘bowline’ to rhyme with ‘strollin’ & not ‘now fine’! Scarlett Mack was a much better narrator of The Blue & this book deserved her too.
All in all, whatever you make of the ending, The Boat is a superb sea adventure story & a very moving tragedy,
As they cruise along the Turkish coast, life aboard the yacht appears idyllic. Frank & Annie are generous with food & (quite plentiful) drink, Smudge is an inquisitive & attractive child, & Johnny & Clem make themselves quite useful supplying nautical expertise Frank surprisingly lacks - he doesn’t even know how to sail! But it is not long before we start hearing ominous chords in the background. (Appropriately, when we first hear the voice of Annie, she’s singing ‘Bad Moon Rising’!) Tho’ the setting is contemporary, Frank sounds like he’s straight out of the Esalen Inst. or Tavistock Sq. ca. 1970 & it’s clear that Frank & Annie have what was then termed an ‘open marriage’. Slowly, tho’, as his jealousy mounts, Johnny discovers that worse, much worse,than adultery may be occurring aboard Little Utopia, but who is he to believe?
I most loved The Blue for the on-board relationships & moral issues & in the case of The Boat these are torqued even tighter. What was very close up in The Blue feels claustrophobic here & when Johnny senses an overwhelming impulse to get himself & Clem off that boat, the reader empathizes completely. Sometimes I simply had to turn off the audio - listening was too intense, esp. whilst trying to drive a car. As in The Blue, the question isn’t whether to notify ‘the Authorities’ as landsmen in civilised societies are supposed to do when something bad or criminal comes to notice. At sea it’s ‘What Authorities?’ as the author has Clem ask. Not much in way of police - not to mention child protective services - out in the Med off the Anatolian coast.
Readers will surely differ in their judgements on how Johnny finally deals with both what has been ongoing aboard Little Utopia & in his relationship with Clem. If you read my review of The Blue, you’ll not be surprised that I thought Johnny’s handling of matters involving Frank was absolutely dead-on right. Sometimes there is only one thing for a real sailor to do: Cast the legalisms over the side & then take care of business, whatever that may entail. (In another era I can imagine Johnny captaining an armed merchant brig off the Javanese coast like Tom Lingard in Conrad’s The Rescue.)
As for Johnny & Clem’s relationship, so often I wanted to shout ‘Please don’t do it. Don’t do that!’) @ both of them @ different times. but when each of them does something foolish or thoughtless, it is absolutely in character: Johnny, as fits a good sailor, too exacting, & Clem, as a very free spirit, too impulsive & giving.
Artistically there are some flaws; Lucy Clarke is a better sailor (at least within the covers of a book) than Clara Salaman. I cannot believe that Frank had only motored, never sailed, before. (I quite agree with Johnny about motors - once you turn on the engine the most graceful sailing yacht morphs hideously into the Hong Kong-Macao ferry - as I learnt spending a week crewing my brother’s father-in-law’s no-so-graceful motor sailer once upon a time, when I also broke another of my rules Johnny & Clem learnt the hard way, never crew for a skipper who knows less about sailing than you do!) Sometimes I wondered about the author’s nautical vocabulary. One ‘hoists’ or ‘raises’ sails - one doesn’t ‘put them up’ like overnight guests. Also yacht sails haven’t been made of canvas since synthetic fabrics were introduced in the 1950s.
Leon Williams narrated in what sounded to me like perfect Estuary dialect, which is precisely what these English characters ought to speak, & I loved listening for what linguists call non-rhoticity, intrusive-R, & L-vocalisation (to my North American ear, ‘saw’ sounded like ‘soar’ & ‘Fireball’ like ‘fibreboard’) But for some strange reason, Williams pronounced every nautical term with an over-exaggerated (I always thought that expression an illiterate pleonasm till now) emphasis on every syllable that you’d never hear from the mouth of any real sailor on either side the Atlantic, who’d pronounce ‘bowline’ to rhyme with ‘strollin’ & not ‘now fine’! Scarlett Mack was a much better narrator of The Blue & this book deserved her too.
All in all, whatever you make of the ending, The Boat is a superb sea adventure story & a very moving tragedy,
February 4, 2014
Thank you kindly to Head of Zeus for the review copy.
They thought they had been rescued. They were wrong…
When a boat appears out of a raging storm, Johnny and his new bride Clem don’t think twice about stepping on board to take refuge, especially as it is crewed by a bohemian couple who represent everything they want to be. But all is not what it seems. And when they finally open their eyes to the truth, the boat is in the middle of the vast open sea…
The best word I can use to describe this particular novel is “haunting” – absolutely. I’m aware that it is based (not sure how loosely) on events from the authors life but during the reading of it I put that aside – trying to work out where fact leaves the story and fiction begins, or how much of a mix and match make up the world within, would be almost impossible and probably best left alone..
Johnny and Clem, newlyweds, are on their honeymoon – drifting from place to place working as they go, no particular plan in mind, they get themselves into a bit of trouble. Like a small miracle, Frank, Annie and their daughter Smudge take them in and offer them shelter…seemingly living the life that Clem and Johnny aspire to, they travel on together and a friendship develops. There is darkness just below the surface however and as things take a sinister turn, Johnny and Clem realise there is nowhere to run.
This is an intriguing tale to be sure and one that creeps up on you in unexpected ways. With a deft touch, Clara Salaman can take you from sunshine to rain in moments – a sudden look, a slight feeling, a seemingly innocent event, all building in your subconcious until, very much like Johnny and Clem, you realise that there is something very wrong here.
Some beautiful descriptive writing gives this one its haunting feel – and I loved the fact that the characters got right into your senses as well as your thoughts – I could almost feel the sea breeze along with Clem and sense the currents of the ocean along with Johnny. There is also a sense of wonder that goes along with the happier portions of the story that is quite exhilarating.
I was hooked by this one the entire journey. If I had one tiny bugbear, its that for me, the ending didnt quite hit me as I expected it would. That is purely subjective however and each reader will take their own thoughts and feelings away from this one. I would definitely recommend it, especially for those who like a book with great psychological insight into its characters and an authentic sense of place and time.
Happy Reading Folks!
They thought they had been rescued. They were wrong…
When a boat appears out of a raging storm, Johnny and his new bride Clem don’t think twice about stepping on board to take refuge, especially as it is crewed by a bohemian couple who represent everything they want to be. But all is not what it seems. And when they finally open their eyes to the truth, the boat is in the middle of the vast open sea…
The best word I can use to describe this particular novel is “haunting” – absolutely. I’m aware that it is based (not sure how loosely) on events from the authors life but during the reading of it I put that aside – trying to work out where fact leaves the story and fiction begins, or how much of a mix and match make up the world within, would be almost impossible and probably best left alone..
Johnny and Clem, newlyweds, are on their honeymoon – drifting from place to place working as they go, no particular plan in mind, they get themselves into a bit of trouble. Like a small miracle, Frank, Annie and their daughter Smudge take them in and offer them shelter…seemingly living the life that Clem and Johnny aspire to, they travel on together and a friendship develops. There is darkness just below the surface however and as things take a sinister turn, Johnny and Clem realise there is nowhere to run.
This is an intriguing tale to be sure and one that creeps up on you in unexpected ways. With a deft touch, Clara Salaman can take you from sunshine to rain in moments – a sudden look, a slight feeling, a seemingly innocent event, all building in your subconcious until, very much like Johnny and Clem, you realise that there is something very wrong here.
Some beautiful descriptive writing gives this one its haunting feel – and I loved the fact that the characters got right into your senses as well as your thoughts – I could almost feel the sea breeze along with Clem and sense the currents of the ocean along with Johnny. There is also a sense of wonder that goes along with the happier portions of the story that is quite exhilarating.
I was hooked by this one the entire journey. If I had one tiny bugbear, its that for me, the ending didnt quite hit me as I expected it would. That is purely subjective however and each reader will take their own thoughts and feelings away from this one. I would definitely recommend it, especially for those who like a book with great psychological insight into its characters and an authentic sense of place and time.
Happy Reading Folks!
January 8, 2014
Anyone who loved the brutal destruction of paradise found in The Beach, and in films like Dead Calm, this is the book for you. Young newlyweds find themselves in trouble in the Med, and seek safety on the Little Utopia, a boat which picks them up. Things are not as they seem, and events start to get out of hand, as the darkside of the idyll becomes clear. This is an excellent thriller, that works really well all the way through.
March 27, 2019
I came across this book at my local library and was intrigued.
I really enjoyed this book. The authors style held my attention and captivated me throughout the book. I liked her writing style and attention to detail. I am looking out for her other novel to read as i really enjoyed this book. The characters were interesting and the story draws you in wanting to learn more about Frank and Annie and leaves you repulsed yet unsure of them/their tale. Such a greatly weaved novel.
I really enjoyed this book. The authors style held my attention and captivated me throughout the book. I liked her writing style and attention to detail. I am looking out for her other novel to read as i really enjoyed this book. The characters were interesting and the story draws you in wanting to learn more about Frank and Annie and leaves you repulsed yet unsure of them/their tale. Such a greatly weaved novel.
January 29, 2023
Honestly can’t get into this book. I was trying to give it the benefit of the doubt but it’s not keeping me hooked at all. Not finishing this book.
April 22, 2015
My full review: https://kyrosmagica.wordpress.com/201...
The blurb on the back of the book didn’t quite do it justice: ‘This is a hypnotic, emotionally charged novel about two sweet young lovers who lose their innocence in paradise.” Ok, the hint was there in the ”lose their innocence in paradise,” but this just didn’t play out how I expected, it was far more raw, and gut-wrenchingly shocking, than I expected. So, be prepared, this novel tackles some very disturbing issues, and is most probably not for everyone.
What did I think?
Well at times my stomach twisted in a rather unpleasant way, particularly in the parts of the novel when it became apparent that the bohemian boat captain, and his wife were into some very deviant sexual tendencies. I was glad that Clara Salaman didn’t go into too much detail especially with regard to Frank and Annie’s young daughter Smudge. This would most certainly have turned me off the novel if she had.
This novel is even more shocking if you consider that it is based on the author’s true life. One doesn’t know exactly which parts of the novel are based on fact, but the knowledge that there is some truth in it makes the novel even more valid for me.
I appreciated the undercurrent of uncertainty that ran throughout the novel, right up until the final most disturbing revelations. It was a clever idea to set the story on a boat. The boat is named the “Little Utopia.” This seems like a contradiction in itself, utopia is thought of as an idyll, a delightful place rather than somewhere you find yourself unable to escape from. It’s a fantastic word combination of utopia suggesting the idyll, with little suggesting the claustrophobic aspect of the boat. In The Boat captivity is not enforced by human hand but largely by elemental forces, the wind died and the boat wasn’t going anywhere fast. When Johnny and Clem first see the boat’s name written on the transom they think it is “a heavenly place full of warmth and light and music.” In fact it is an interesting twist that Clem eventually finds her relationship with Johnny stifling, she yearns for the freedom that Frank and Annie represent, yet Frank and Annie are not what she expects, and in this she is naïve and somewhat childlike herself. Clem is prone to superstitious tendencies, and the owners of the boat don’t follow these precautions. This lack of respect for superstition acts as a warning that all will not bode well on this tiny, idyllic boat.
Of the two main protagonists: Johnny and Clem, I preferred Johnny, somehow I related to him more. At times I found Clem somewhat frustrating, and a little contradictory, I wanted to prod her and say,” What the heck!” But, this is most probably because she is the more naïve, and damaged of the two, due to her own father’s neglect, and makes the worst decisions because of this.
The majority of the narrative is set on board the boat, although there are some chapters interspersed within this “boat narrative,” that focus on Clem and Johnny individually to suggest aspects of their background and motivation for their actions. On the whole this worked quite well but I did sometimes feel as if these could be edited, and shortened a bit, for me the most successful chapters were those spent with Frank, Annie, and Smudge.
There is a birthday celebration for Smudge, and Johnny gives Smudge a hand-made spear. “I found a monster, Johnny!” she said.
So did I.
“Did you kill it with your spear?” he asked.
“No. I let it go.” Her eyelashes had matted together like a doll’s eyes; she looked so perfect and fragile. “Be the monster, Johnny. Be it!”
Of course Johnny pretends to be the monster but the real monster is lurking on board the boat, and as the story unfolds we are kept guessing until we find out who that person is.
The birthday celebration which should be a happy event acts as a pivotal point in the narrative, things begin to change. Annie does something so dreadful that Johnny feels he has to hide it from Smudge.
So a shocking read, not one for the faint-hearted. It is very well written, even though there are some typos which could have done with proof-reading.
Recommended for readers of Drama, Fiction, Mystery, Thriller, who like a thought-provoking book with a strong theme.
The blurb on the back of the book didn’t quite do it justice: ‘This is a hypnotic, emotionally charged novel about two sweet young lovers who lose their innocence in paradise.” Ok, the hint was there in the ”lose their innocence in paradise,” but this just didn’t play out how I expected, it was far more raw, and gut-wrenchingly shocking, than I expected. So, be prepared, this novel tackles some very disturbing issues, and is most probably not for everyone.
What did I think?
Well at times my stomach twisted in a rather unpleasant way, particularly in the parts of the novel when it became apparent that the bohemian boat captain, and his wife were into some very deviant sexual tendencies. I was glad that Clara Salaman didn’t go into too much detail especially with regard to Frank and Annie’s young daughter Smudge. This would most certainly have turned me off the novel if she had.
This novel is even more shocking if you consider that it is based on the author’s true life. One doesn’t know exactly which parts of the novel are based on fact, but the knowledge that there is some truth in it makes the novel even more valid for me.
I appreciated the undercurrent of uncertainty that ran throughout the novel, right up until the final most disturbing revelations. It was a clever idea to set the story on a boat. The boat is named the “Little Utopia.” This seems like a contradiction in itself, utopia is thought of as an idyll, a delightful place rather than somewhere you find yourself unable to escape from. It’s a fantastic word combination of utopia suggesting the idyll, with little suggesting the claustrophobic aspect of the boat. In The Boat captivity is not enforced by human hand but largely by elemental forces, the wind died and the boat wasn’t going anywhere fast. When Johnny and Clem first see the boat’s name written on the transom they think it is “a heavenly place full of warmth and light and music.” In fact it is an interesting twist that Clem eventually finds her relationship with Johnny stifling, she yearns for the freedom that Frank and Annie represent, yet Frank and Annie are not what she expects, and in this she is naïve and somewhat childlike herself. Clem is prone to superstitious tendencies, and the owners of the boat don’t follow these precautions. This lack of respect for superstition acts as a warning that all will not bode well on this tiny, idyllic boat.
Of the two main protagonists: Johnny and Clem, I preferred Johnny, somehow I related to him more. At times I found Clem somewhat frustrating, and a little contradictory, I wanted to prod her and say,” What the heck!” But, this is most probably because she is the more naïve, and damaged of the two, due to her own father’s neglect, and makes the worst decisions because of this.
The majority of the narrative is set on board the boat, although there are some chapters interspersed within this “boat narrative,” that focus on Clem and Johnny individually to suggest aspects of their background and motivation for their actions. On the whole this worked quite well but I did sometimes feel as if these could be edited, and shortened a bit, for me the most successful chapters were those spent with Frank, Annie, and Smudge.
There is a birthday celebration for Smudge, and Johnny gives Smudge a hand-made spear. “I found a monster, Johnny!” she said.
So did I.
“Did you kill it with your spear?” he asked.
“No. I let it go.” Her eyelashes had matted together like a doll’s eyes; she looked so perfect and fragile. “Be the monster, Johnny. Be it!”
Of course Johnny pretends to be the monster but the real monster is lurking on board the boat, and as the story unfolds we are kept guessing until we find out who that person is.
The birthday celebration which should be a happy event acts as a pivotal point in the narrative, things begin to change. Annie does something so dreadful that Johnny feels he has to hide it from Smudge.
So a shocking read, not one for the faint-hearted. It is very well written, even though there are some typos which could have done with proof-reading.
Recommended for readers of Drama, Fiction, Mystery, Thriller, who like a thought-provoking book with a strong theme.
December 5, 2013
I loved this book. I completely fell for the young honeymooning couple Jonny and Clem, who take a trip to Turkey when they are eighteen and feel like life is just one big adventure. Then they end up on a stranger's boat, and things don't turn out quite so well as they hoped... I wont spoiler the plot, but I will say that this was completely gripping - just when you think you've worked it out, there's another twist. It is also in a beautiful setting - the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Turkey - which really comes alive, you can feel the cool breeze and the oppressive heat. In some ways, this reminded me a bit of Alex Garland's 'The Beach', in that it's about a place that looks like paradise, but soon becomes something much darker. I'd recommend this to anyone.
February 11, 2020
3.5/4* - undecided
For a $3 book this was GOOD. The fact that this is a true story makes it both terribly sad and terrific. It was super flawed, lots of spelling mistakes etc and the cover looked like it was made in Microsoft office...but I enjoyed it tbh. The pacing was slow but steady and all though it took a while to get to the brunt of the story I still found that the read was enjoyable. I enjoyed the little bits of backstory and Clara Salaman really did well in creating and encapsulating the characters - especially the side characters (in particular smudge).
And the ending was profound.
For a $3 book this was GOOD. The fact that this is a true story makes it both terribly sad and terrific. It was super flawed, lots of spelling mistakes etc and the cover looked like it was made in Microsoft office...but I enjoyed it tbh. The pacing was slow but steady and all though it took a while to get to the brunt of the story I still found that the read was enjoyable. I enjoyed the little bits of backstory and Clara Salaman really did well in creating and encapsulating the characters - especially the side characters (in particular smudge).
And the ending was profound.
May 23, 2024
I don’t even know why I finished this book. It was slow and the storyline was confusing all the way through. I felt like all the infidelity and child abuse was just not needed. I hoped for a good book after reading the synopsis but honestly I was disappointed:(
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2021
I'm surprised more people haven't read this one. It's really well written, and like most "locked room" mysteries it's super tense. Apparently it's loosely based on a true story, at least the premise, with a bit of what the author WISHED had happened at the end. The characters were really lush. I appreciate that.
August 11, 2025
Well, I forced myself to finish it. I loved so much about the story and hated other things. Disturbing in some parts and revolting in others. It had a weak ending. Warning: pedophilia storyline
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2013
I’d like to thank Becci Sharpe from Head of Zeus for providing me with a review copy of this book. I was immediately intrigued by this book and I knew I’d like it from the first chapter. Based on some of the authors real-life experiences, The Boat is about newly weds Johnny and Clem who find themselves in some trouble whilst travelling in Turkey for their year long honeymoon. They have no money and no place to stay and when all hope seems to be lost, a boat appears out of a raging storm housing a bohemian couple, Frank and Annie, and their daughter and they welcome Johnny and Clem on-board with open arms. Johnny and Clem settle into life on the boat and begin to think of Frank and Annie as the kind of couple that they long to be but as days turn into weeks they start to realise that this couple aren’t as perfect as they’d originally thought and when secrets gets unravelled and tension begins to rise, Johnny and Clem realise that the boat is now way out in the open sea and there’s absolutely nowhere to run.
I was so unbelievably drawn into the unfamiliar world of this book – from the very first page. Head of Zeus had said that if you’re a fan of The Beach then you’ll love this and they are absolutely right. It starts with a quite intense chapter about a man who is in the process of committing suicide. You don’t know who this man is and the reasons behind his actions and 3/4 of the way through the book I still had no idea of the meaning behind that first chapter. I think that’s one of the main reasons I read the book so fast because I was so curious to find out what could have possibly gone so wrong to make a man contemplate suicide. After the initial chapter, the story focuses on Johnny and Clem’s journey. I have the upmost respect for Johnny and Clem – their passion and spirit of adventure. They live to travel, they want to see the world and not conform to the norms of society. Live life on their own terms and I think they stand for everything that most of us can only dream of. They were so likeable and I so hoped everything was going to turn out alright for the both of them. The emotions of the characters are described so well you somehow begin to feel how they must be feeling – well I did anyway. My mind was a bit all over the place at times, as must theirs have been and I literately had no idea what to expect. The tone of the book changed so dramatically throughout and it was like you didn’t finish the same book that you started. This compelling and completely shocking novel is anything but predictable and the author managed to shock me over and over again, right up until the very last page.
I found some parts of this book very wise and philosophical and some of the conversations Johnny and Clem have with Frank and Annie on the boat really did open my eyes and leave me contemplating what they just said. Having said that, this book also covers some dark ground. It’s intense, disturbing and unsettling and the author definitely wasn’t afraid to be open and honest about some truly uncomfortable topics. The way this book is written focuses mainly on the emotions and feelings of the characters rather than the situation itself. The author did this fantastically and instead of just telling us the story she really makes you feel like you’re a part of it which, given the nature of this book, is both thrilling and scary. This tale of young love, adventure and excitement slowly grows into one of hatred, jealousy, and deceit. It was gripping, haunting and chilling and I had to keep reminding myself that it was based on true events. I know I’m probably never going to find out exactly what bits were true and what bits weren’t but I think there’s a part of me that would prefer not to know and leave it as a mystery – just like the deepest and darkest depths of the ocean.
Find all my reviews here: www.jennyinneverland.wordpress.com
I was so unbelievably drawn into the unfamiliar world of this book – from the very first page. Head of Zeus had said that if you’re a fan of The Beach then you’ll love this and they are absolutely right. It starts with a quite intense chapter about a man who is in the process of committing suicide. You don’t know who this man is and the reasons behind his actions and 3/4 of the way through the book I still had no idea of the meaning behind that first chapter. I think that’s one of the main reasons I read the book so fast because I was so curious to find out what could have possibly gone so wrong to make a man contemplate suicide. After the initial chapter, the story focuses on Johnny and Clem’s journey. I have the upmost respect for Johnny and Clem – their passion and spirit of adventure. They live to travel, they want to see the world and not conform to the norms of society. Live life on their own terms and I think they stand for everything that most of us can only dream of. They were so likeable and I so hoped everything was going to turn out alright for the both of them. The emotions of the characters are described so well you somehow begin to feel how they must be feeling – well I did anyway. My mind was a bit all over the place at times, as must theirs have been and I literately had no idea what to expect. The tone of the book changed so dramatically throughout and it was like you didn’t finish the same book that you started. This compelling and completely shocking novel is anything but predictable and the author managed to shock me over and over again, right up until the very last page.
I found some parts of this book very wise and philosophical and some of the conversations Johnny and Clem have with Frank and Annie on the boat really did open my eyes and leave me contemplating what they just said. Having said that, this book also covers some dark ground. It’s intense, disturbing and unsettling and the author definitely wasn’t afraid to be open and honest about some truly uncomfortable topics. The way this book is written focuses mainly on the emotions and feelings of the characters rather than the situation itself. The author did this fantastically and instead of just telling us the story she really makes you feel like you’re a part of it which, given the nature of this book, is both thrilling and scary. This tale of young love, adventure and excitement slowly grows into one of hatred, jealousy, and deceit. It was gripping, haunting and chilling and I had to keep reminding myself that it was based on true events. I know I’m probably never going to find out exactly what bits were true and what bits weren’t but I think there’s a part of me that would prefer not to know and leave it as a mystery – just like the deepest and darkest depths of the ocean.
Find all my reviews here: www.jennyinneverland.wordpress.com
June 28, 2018
I really had high hopes for this one. It was a five star read for much of the story to be honest
and it was for the most part. There was a thread throughout however that I found totally unnecessary and distasteful so it did ruin the book for me. It could have been great (and 85% of it was - the claustrophobia, the feeling of being alone on a boat in the middle of nowhere, life at sea, the promise of freedom, the characters wit their varied personalities and reasons for doing what they're doing)
Shockingly it is based on the author's real experiences (not sure to what extent) I just hope above all else that awful bit wasn't real.
and it was for the most part. There was a thread throughout however that I found totally unnecessary and distasteful so it did ruin the book for me. It could have been great (and 85% of it was - the claustrophobia, the feeling of being alone on a boat in the middle of nowhere, life at sea, the promise of freedom, the characters wit their varied personalities and reasons for doing what they're doing)
Shockingly it is based on the author's real experiences (not sure to what extent) I just hope above all else that awful bit wasn't real.
December 5, 2013
I received this book for free from GoodReads First Reads and when it arrived I was a little unsure as to whether I would enjoy it or not as it's not my usual cup of tea but I am trying to push the boundary's of what I read and the types of books I read so I jumped straight in. I must admit I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed reading it.
The author, Clara Salaman, is a new face for me and is a former actress who starred on The Bill on TV (DS Claire Stanton) among other things but don't let the fact that the author is a former actress turned author as she has a lovely touch with her writing and I personally will read more of her work if given the opportunity.
The book is set among the islands of the Med with Johnny and Clem on their honeymoon, they are a very, very couple married couple who do what most young couples do and that is to be too trusting and too carefree which leads to mistakes that can change lives. A series of unfortunate events leads them to a boat in the mist that seems like an escape from their current situation but leads to a series of events that will lead change them both forever.
At times the books touched on subjects that make it a little uncomfortable to read (especially at the moment with some of the similar things happening in the news, I won't say more as it would be a big spoiler!) but all in all it was a great and very thought provoking book. The two lead characters were easy to like which made you care about them and want happens to them as individuals and as a couple especially as you get a real sense of their relationship through a series of flashbacks that show the couples back-stories, both together and individually.
I also thought the very end of the book, the last couple of pages literally, was a bit surprising, just when you thought it was all over........ wow!
A lovely book, a great read and one to definitely recommend to anyone thinking of reading it, go for it!
This review can also be found on my new book review blog - http://gizzimomosbookplace.blogspot.c...
The author, Clara Salaman, is a new face for me and is a former actress who starred on The Bill on TV (DS Claire Stanton) among other things but don't let the fact that the author is a former actress turned author as she has a lovely touch with her writing and I personally will read more of her work if given the opportunity.
The book is set among the islands of the Med with Johnny and Clem on their honeymoon, they are a very, very couple married couple who do what most young couples do and that is to be too trusting and too carefree which leads to mistakes that can change lives. A series of unfortunate events leads them to a boat in the mist that seems like an escape from their current situation but leads to a series of events that will lead change them both forever.
At times the books touched on subjects that make it a little uncomfortable to read (especially at the moment with some of the similar things happening in the news, I won't say more as it would be a big spoiler!) but all in all it was a great and very thought provoking book. The two lead characters were easy to like which made you care about them and want happens to them as individuals and as a couple especially as you get a real sense of their relationship through a series of flashbacks that show the couples back-stories, both together and individually.
I also thought the very end of the book, the last couple of pages literally, was a bit surprising, just when you thought it was all over........ wow!
A lovely book, a great read and one to definitely recommend to anyone thinking of reading it, go for it!
This review can also be found on my new book review blog - http://gizzimomosbookplace.blogspot.c...
September 8, 2016
The boat is Clara Salaman's second novel. This novel The Boat is so well written I was unable to put it down. The whole atmosphere makes you feel that you are really on the boat taking the journey with all of them. The story starts a bit in the past whern Clemmie eleven years old and Johnny fourteen both are in love with each other in the perfect blue skies of Cornwall. A few Years later they both meet up again getting married with taking a honeymoon. While Clem and Johnny are on their honey in Turkey they both run into trouble and are told to run as the police are after them. Frightened out of their minds they jump into a boat belonging to Frank and his wife Annie. Frank lets Clem and Johnny take the journey out to sea with him and his wife and daughter. Clem and Johnny think this is very kind of him and now they are safe the police will not find them. Of course Clem and Johnny thought their prayers were answered and that the had been rescued. But how wrong they were. I definitely recommend The Boat to al readers and book clubs.. .
January 18, 2014
The style of writing and the type of story that I absolutely love, incredible use of imagery without over-doing it; characters that you really like (and characters you loathe) and the style - going from present to past, works perfectly. It's like every single line has been thought about. It's an absolute thriller, not blood and gore, but psychological torture I thought nothing could beat 'The Magpies' but 'The Boat' is right up there with it. It gets extremely dark, totally disturbing, which is so hard to read at times, especially because you feel like you know the characters so well. You feel like you're there, feeling what they feel. I feel like I'll never do Clara Salaman justice whatever I say, so I'll just say get on board with the characters and tell me your hearts not hammering towards the end! The ending did not disappoint either! It's one where you're like 'Ah okay, no wait, hang on... no... is it?.... oh my god". I loved it.
March 26, 2015
At first, I didn't have very high hopes for this book. I found it quite slow at first and slightly hard to follow - in fact, I was near to giving up only a few chapters in. I'm so glad I persevered.
Newlyweds (somewhat dysfunctional ones at that) travelling to Turkey on their honey moon. After running into some unexpected trouble and needing to make a speedy escape, they end up being rescued by a family on "The Boat". We are then taken on a quietly disturbing journey across the ocean where things aren't what they originally seemed..
This was eerie and disturbing in places but captivating and addictive. Despite the slow start, I found myself shaking my head at parts and thinking "did that really just HAPPEN?".
The end of the book left me wondering what happened to the characters which was a shame. I think its down to the reader to decide. All in all, interesting and exciting. I recommend!
Newlyweds (somewhat dysfunctional ones at that) travelling to Turkey on their honey moon. After running into some unexpected trouble and needing to make a speedy escape, they end up being rescued by a family on "The Boat". We are then taken on a quietly disturbing journey across the ocean where things aren't what they originally seemed..
This was eerie and disturbing in places but captivating and addictive. Despite the slow start, I found myself shaking my head at parts and thinking "did that really just HAPPEN?".
The end of the book left me wondering what happened to the characters which was a shame. I think its down to the reader to decide. All in all, interesting and exciting. I recommend!
November 29, 2018
Frank and Annie are the type of people who give Amway presentations, and Johnny and Clem are the type of people who fall for it.
July 4, 2019
Strange, and deeply disturbing.
November 19, 2019
Very disturbing read. How your life can change in an instant.
Characters are well developed, but this book is a very slow build.
Too many loose ends. A sequel is needed.
Characters are well developed, but this book is a very slow build.
Too many loose ends. A sequel is needed.
February 10, 2020
Although I enjoyed this book and the suspense steadily built right to the end I found it hard to deal with the subject matter. It was disturbing. So I don’t know if I would recommend.
June 7, 2023
I love buying and reading these types of books.
Boats, yachts, historical events and books about the sea are generally excellent. If there are sequels in your series, I would love to read them.
The beauties of owning the books of important authors cannot be discussed. I'm looking forward to your new books.
For friends who want to read this book, I leave the importance of reading a book here. I wish good luck to the sellers and customers...
Top 10 benefits of reading for all ages:
1. Reading Exercises the Brain
As we read, we need to remember the different characters and settings of a particular story. Even if you enjoy reading a book in one sitting, you need to remember the details during the time you devote to reading the book. Therefore, reading is an exercise for your brain that improves memory function.
2. Reading Is a (free) Form of Entertainment
Did you know that most of the popular TV series and movies are based on books? So why not indulge in the original form of entertainment by immersing yourself in reading? Most importantly, it's free with your Markham Public Library card.
3. Reading Improves Concentration and Focus
We all agree that there can be no reading without focus, and we need to concentrate on every page we read to fully understand the story. In a world where gadgets only speed up and shorten our attention span, we must constantly practice concentration and focus. Reading is one of the few activities that requires your undivided attention, so it improves your ability to concentrate.
4. Reading Improves Literacy
Have you ever read a book where you come across a word you don't know? Books have the power to improve your vocabulary by introducing you to new words. The more you read, the more your vocabulary will improve as well as your ability to communicate effectively. Also, reading improves writing skills by helping the reader understand and learn different writing styles.
5. Reading Improves Sleep
By creating a bedtime routine that includes reading, you can signal to your body that it's time to sleep. Now more than ever, we rely on increased screen time to get through the day. That's why you put your phone away and pick up a book and tell your brain it's time to calm down. Also, since reading helps you relieve stress, reading right before bed helps calm your mind and anxiety and improve your sleep quality.
6. Reading Increases General Knowledge
Books are always full of fun and interesting facts. Whether we read fiction or non-fiction, books have the ability to provide us with information we might not otherwise know. Reading various topics can make you a more knowledgeable person and therefore improve your speaking skills.
7. Reading Is Motivating
By reading books about heroes overcoming adversity, we are often encouraged to do the same. Whether it's a romance novel or a self-help book, the right book can motivate you to never give up and stay positive.
https://numberoneboats.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/seacraft-23-...
https://numberoneboats.com/seacraft-2...
https://theboatyacht.com/nordic-40-sa...
https://numberoneboats.com/nordic-40-...
Boats, yachts, historical events and books about the sea are generally excellent. If there are sequels in your series, I would love to read them.
The beauties of owning the books of important authors cannot be discussed. I'm looking forward to your new books.
For friends who want to read this book, I leave the importance of reading a book here. I wish good luck to the sellers and customers...
Top 10 benefits of reading for all ages:
1. Reading Exercises the Brain
As we read, we need to remember the different characters and settings of a particular story. Even if you enjoy reading a book in one sitting, you need to remember the details during the time you devote to reading the book. Therefore, reading is an exercise for your brain that improves memory function.
2. Reading Is a (free) Form of Entertainment
Did you know that most of the popular TV series and movies are based on books? So why not indulge in the original form of entertainment by immersing yourself in reading? Most importantly, it's free with your Markham Public Library card.
3. Reading Improves Concentration and Focus
We all agree that there can be no reading without focus, and we need to concentrate on every page we read to fully understand the story. In a world where gadgets only speed up and shorten our attention span, we must constantly practice concentration and focus. Reading is one of the few activities that requires your undivided attention, so it improves your ability to concentrate.
4. Reading Improves Literacy
Have you ever read a book where you come across a word you don't know? Books have the power to improve your vocabulary by introducing you to new words. The more you read, the more your vocabulary will improve as well as your ability to communicate effectively. Also, reading improves writing skills by helping the reader understand and learn different writing styles.
5. Reading Improves Sleep
By creating a bedtime routine that includes reading, you can signal to your body that it's time to sleep. Now more than ever, we rely on increased screen time to get through the day. That's why you put your phone away and pick up a book and tell your brain it's time to calm down. Also, since reading helps you relieve stress, reading right before bed helps calm your mind and anxiety and improve your sleep quality.
6. Reading Increases General Knowledge
Books are always full of fun and interesting facts. Whether we read fiction or non-fiction, books have the ability to provide us with information we might not otherwise know. Reading various topics can make you a more knowledgeable person and therefore improve your speaking skills.
7. Reading Is Motivating
By reading books about heroes overcoming adversity, we are often encouraged to do the same. Whether it's a romance novel or a self-help book, the right book can motivate you to never give up and stay positive.
https://numberoneboats.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/seacraft-23-...
https://numberoneboats.com/seacraft-2...
https://theboatyacht.com/nordic-40-sa...
https://numberoneboats.com/nordic-40-...
February 21, 2018
Wow, this is one strange book! I picked it up and thought it sounded intriguing but had absolutely no idea of the plot, which was probably a good thing or I might not have issued it! Started off a bit hard to follow and I very nearly didn't carry on after a few chapters. After having a sneaky peak on here to see if others liked it or not I continued on and before long I was extremely involved in one heck of a dark plot line and really didn't want to put it down! It is extremely well written, it is not often that a book can make me feel so involved in the story line and to just feel like you HAD to know how this sorry saga was going to resolve itself. Definitely weird, but a book I won't forget in a hurry. I only wish I knew what happened next ...!!!
August 7, 2021
Maybe only one other time have I been so captivated and entranced by the storytelling in a novel. The writing is exquisite, the characters completely organic. It's a true-love love story and written so you can feel each character's personal dilemmas as they progress through their relationships with the others in the group. It turns seriously dark and I felt, like they did, "can I hang on now that I know the truth?" So many emotions, great surprises and I wish for a sequel.
September 12, 2020
I found this book really exciting at the beginning but toward the end it got rather confusing. This was based on the Author's own experience she is also a novelist and actress. I could not work out what happened to Smudge at the end and did Frank and Clem run off together or not? Also I assume Johnny did survive after his drowning experience and what happened to Annie?
November 1, 2016
Originally posted on: http://houseoftheraven.blogspot.sg/
I can still vividly remember where I got Clara Salaman's The Boat from in the first place. It was a warehouse sale, and it had been going on for something like 3 days by the time I went in. I expected that I had to sift through a lot of unwanted books to get to the honey-pods, and I found it decently surprising that most of the books were actually good stuff. George R. R. Martin was there, and so was Robert Jordan.
Then I came to Clara Salaman's book. I saw the huge, silver-lined title. The ominous boat in the background. It looked pretty good to me. Fits the title and blurb at the back very well. Straightforward, but compelling. Did I mention the blurb? Yes, it gave me exactly what I wanted: The makings of a thriller, or even... I was thinking of horror. Back then, I figured that I need to read more than Stephen King and H. P. Lovecraft. And looking at Clara Salaman's book, I decided that I should take a chance with her. Here's the blurb, by the way:
"It was supposed to be the trip of a lifetime...
Johnny and his new bride Clem have arrived in Turkey for a year's honeymoon. Young, blissfully happy but poor, they are surviving on love, luck and a spirit of adventure.
So when a boat appears out of a raging storm, crewed by a bohemian couple who represent everything Johnny and Clem want to be, they do not think twice about stepping on board. But all is not as it seems. And when they finally open their eyes to the truth, the boat is in the middle of the vast open sea..."
Two young adults stuck on a boat with some VERY liberal-minded folks, isolated out at sea? I'm game! Gimme, gimme!
Except it wasn't all that it was cracked up to be.
My biggest gripe with the book is the painfully slow and unimpressive development and pacing. The thrill/horror isn't even a vague, constant throb, more like half-hearted spikes that wore off quickly, and even then, much of it can be attributed to its shocking subject matter, which I won't spoil for you. Important moments are ruined consistently by long-delayed reveals of the truth surrounding the boat and its occupants. Said important moments that act to move the plot are like calm waves on a sunny day. I'm not swept by them, nor moved in any way.
There isn't even a real sense of danger, and as a result, I don't fear for the characters - In fact, it's very hard to be afraid for the good guy (and girl) when their very survival is very much mandatory for a strand of the plot to function.
All this goes on for something like 75% of the book. That's way too much content dedicated to developing the plot, with much of it being wasted on the slow-burn that didn't exactly cook the meat. Normally, 25% would have done it, +/- 10%. I was nearly done with the book around the middle, but thankfully my reading stamina was better than that.
Then there's the editing. As a writer, I can understand that it's impossible to whack every grammar-mistake-mole in the book. Still, it's something that needs to be said. While the errors in the book isn't plentiful, they're noticeable. The book is saturated with enough errors that it gave me pause, but not enough to turn me off completely. I'm talking about something like one error for every eight to ten pages - Sounds infrequent, but it adds up.
All of this leads up to a crescendo in the story, which, again, is lacklustre. The antagonist is dispatched too easily for all the build-up about how he's an insurmountable killing machine. The eventual fate of the characters, including the protagonist, is hard to believe, especially considering the amount of control they have to just sail into the sunset, happily ever after - protagonists and supporting characters of other thrillers and stories of the horror genre aren't so lucky. Mine certainly wasn't (hehe hyuck-hyuck-hyuck!) In the end, it feels forced and convenient, written for the sake of having a bittersweet ending.
So, we're left with a book that doesn't work well as a thriller or horror, and ends poorly. Why read the book? Well, beyond the cover and the blurb, the other things done right on my book, I feel that the prose isn't a total loss. I think Clara Salaman is better off writing drama or tragedy, contemporary and literary stuff.
The characters are well written, with enough depth to sink The Little Utopia in. This goes even for the very minor characters who exists for a mere few pages. Similarly, Johnny and Clem's backstory is enjoyable, and their tragedies enough to dredge up a tear or two in my eyes. They feel as alive as some of my closer friends. The same goes for the their counterparts too, the so-called Bohemian Couple. They aren't your usual monsters. Just to be clear, they're humans, not actual monsters, by the way. That's about as much as I'll spoil for you.
Conclusion: Clara Salaman's The Boat suffers horribly when it comes to the plot, pacing, even the atmosphere, which isn't strong enough. However, it is redeemed by its characters, their development and backstory - Just far from enough to cover the 3rd degree burns inflicted by its highly-compromising shortcomings.
I can still vividly remember where I got Clara Salaman's The Boat from in the first place. It was a warehouse sale, and it had been going on for something like 3 days by the time I went in. I expected that I had to sift through a lot of unwanted books to get to the honey-pods, and I found it decently surprising that most of the books were actually good stuff. George R. R. Martin was there, and so was Robert Jordan.
Then I came to Clara Salaman's book. I saw the huge, silver-lined title. The ominous boat in the background. It looked pretty good to me. Fits the title and blurb at the back very well. Straightforward, but compelling. Did I mention the blurb? Yes, it gave me exactly what I wanted: The makings of a thriller, or even... I was thinking of horror. Back then, I figured that I need to read more than Stephen King and H. P. Lovecraft. And looking at Clara Salaman's book, I decided that I should take a chance with her. Here's the blurb, by the way:
"It was supposed to be the trip of a lifetime...
Johnny and his new bride Clem have arrived in Turkey for a year's honeymoon. Young, blissfully happy but poor, they are surviving on love, luck and a spirit of adventure.
So when a boat appears out of a raging storm, crewed by a bohemian couple who represent everything Johnny and Clem want to be, they do not think twice about stepping on board. But all is not as it seems. And when they finally open their eyes to the truth, the boat is in the middle of the vast open sea..."
Two young adults stuck on a boat with some VERY liberal-minded folks, isolated out at sea? I'm game! Gimme, gimme!
Except it wasn't all that it was cracked up to be.
My biggest gripe with the book is the painfully slow and unimpressive development and pacing. The thrill/horror isn't even a vague, constant throb, more like half-hearted spikes that wore off quickly, and even then, much of it can be attributed to its shocking subject matter, which I won't spoil for you. Important moments are ruined consistently by long-delayed reveals of the truth surrounding the boat and its occupants. Said important moments that act to move the plot are like calm waves on a sunny day. I'm not swept by them, nor moved in any way.
There isn't even a real sense of danger, and as a result, I don't fear for the characters - In fact, it's very hard to be afraid for the good guy (and girl) when their very survival is very much mandatory for a strand of the plot to function.
All this goes on for something like 75% of the book. That's way too much content dedicated to developing the plot, with much of it being wasted on the slow-burn that didn't exactly cook the meat. Normally, 25% would have done it, +/- 10%. I was nearly done with the book around the middle, but thankfully my reading stamina was better than that.
Then there's the editing. As a writer, I can understand that it's impossible to whack every grammar-mistake-mole in the book. Still, it's something that needs to be said. While the errors in the book isn't plentiful, they're noticeable. The book is saturated with enough errors that it gave me pause, but not enough to turn me off completely. I'm talking about something like one error for every eight to ten pages - Sounds infrequent, but it adds up.
All of this leads up to a crescendo in the story, which, again, is lacklustre. The antagonist is dispatched too easily for all the build-up about how he's an insurmountable killing machine. The eventual fate of the characters, including the protagonist, is hard to believe, especially considering the amount of control they have to just sail into the sunset, happily ever after - protagonists and supporting characters of other thrillers and stories of the horror genre aren't so lucky. Mine certainly wasn't (hehe hyuck-hyuck-hyuck!) In the end, it feels forced and convenient, written for the sake of having a bittersweet ending.
So, we're left with a book that doesn't work well as a thriller or horror, and ends poorly. Why read the book? Well, beyond the cover and the blurb, the other things done right on my book, I feel that the prose isn't a total loss. I think Clara Salaman is better off writing drama or tragedy, contemporary and literary stuff.
The characters are well written, with enough depth to sink The Little Utopia in. This goes even for the very minor characters who exists for a mere few pages. Similarly, Johnny and Clem's backstory is enjoyable, and their tragedies enough to dredge up a tear or two in my eyes. They feel as alive as some of my closer friends. The same goes for the their counterparts too, the so-called Bohemian Couple. They aren't your usual monsters. Just to be clear, they're humans, not actual monsters, by the way. That's about as much as I'll spoil for you.
Conclusion: Clara Salaman's The Boat suffers horribly when it comes to the plot, pacing, even the atmosphere, which isn't strong enough. However, it is redeemed by its characters, their development and backstory - Just far from enough to cover the 3rd degree burns inflicted by its highly-compromising shortcomings.
September 13, 2018
2.5 stars, really. Not what I expected, and weird and disturbing in a bad kind of way. There were good parts and bad parts and I mostly just kept reading so I could say I finished it.
August 7, 2020
Not a fan at all. Hard to follow. Boring.
February 18, 2022
Dark and tragic.
September 15, 2022
Other reviewers have said the ending detracts from the story. However, the story is largely based on factual events. Well executed and it was certainly engaging.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews