This post was originally published at Novelicious.com and is now at WritingTipsOasis.com. WritingTipsOasis.com acquired Novelicious.com in June 2022.
Reviewed by Kelly Allen
When Willow is asked to take part in an underwater recovery dive at the place where her parents died many years ago, she cannot refuse the opportunity. When it comes to finally diving in, something tugs at her heart, but she faces her fears and goes underwater.
When the recovery is cancelled because the ship is too unstable, Willow is devastated. Then she is given something that makes her question her whole life and everything she ever knew about her parents.
Willow sets off on a trip to discover the truth about her parents, but sometimes secrets are best left alone…
I enjoyed reading this book for several reasons. The first is the whole topic of the beautifully described underwater forests. I was blown away by the beauty of the descriptions, the magical nature of the forests and how the three sisters feel about them. The writing really draws you into their world, their imaginations and their dreams.
Secondly, I loved the twists and turns of the story and the unpredictable nature of the storyline. I found that the pace of the book didn't really allow me to second-guess the storyline, and I really liked that because I don't really enjoy predictable plots!
The characters are all presented clearly, and I didn't feel confused by the layout of the book (it goes from the past to the present and back again without it jarring). I think the whole idea of secrets and lies is prominent in any life, and this particular story weaves a web of deceit in such a clever way, dropping in new discoveries effortlessly whilst causing shock to the reader.
I sometimes struggled with the dialogue – some of it seemed very flippant amongst the very serious nature of the story – but apart from those odd moments I really enjoyed the book.The secrets and lies that finally come to an abrupt end will leave readers emotional, but comforted by the final sentiment of the book. This would suit those rainy days, curled up in a window seat with a warm cup of tea and some tissues.
7/10