The first is that there were some issues with realistic relationship developments. I do have a couple of negatives unfortunately. We also see gruff characters learn to show their vulnerability, others learn to be tough in adversity, and so much more. He slowly is brought around to re-learn the wonders of the island. Jack starts off very clearly wishing to be a mainlander and to leave as quickly as possible.

The character development was wonderful also. We also get POVs from others in the community that allow us to gain a deeper understanding of their personal lives and we learn more about the division of the island overall. The worldbuilding of this community was done brilliantly through a combination of Jack’s memories and him learning about the community as it is now through brand new experiences. The writing style flowed beautifully and I enjoyed delving back into the world each day. I really enjoyed this book, it was so much fun and such a pleasure to read. And in this case it wasn’t! And in the acknowledgements Ross lists some of the sources she used for research, which I definitely loved! But usually with US authors attempting to write about other cultures, it tends to be pretty obviously bad. I am not the authority on whether this was authentic or not.

When he gets back he discovers that girls are going missing and no one knows who is taking them, but Jack doesn’t know how he can help.įirst up, I really wasn’t mad at how Ross portrayed Scotland! Now, grain of salt, I’m half Scottish (hi mum), from the South West of Scotland (most definitely not the northern isles), and I’ve never lived there. I’m glad I did because I ended up really enjoying this one! We follow a young man who is called back to his native island in Scotland by his clan leader to request his help, and he’s asked to bring his harp with him.

A river enchanted illumicrate