A rare gem! I found this novel incredibly human, with characters extremely vividly drawn. Their relationship to nature, the tremulous and traitorous sea, the elements connecting them to the natural and superstition world show an exceptional quality of the writing. I found extremely fascinating and angering the arrogance and self-importance of Thomas of the man of the clothes wanting to convert the inhabitants of the isle. With no practical knowledge of what their life is like, Thomas tried to force his religion onto the natives of the island, with no understanding of their culture and traditions. Can he reach his aim? Can he reach the people? Thomas has his own demons as well. Can he help himself? A beautiful, yet tragic portrait of human nature in a time when Enlightenment seemed to be the word....
Highly recommended!
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.

3.5 ⭐

Unsettling and claustrophobic, the setting of this small isolated island sets the tone well.
Whilst the inhabitants believe in their old ways, the new Reverand does not.
Throw in the mystery of a girl seemingly found out of nowhere, and it's all very intriguing.
The story picks up surprisingly towards the end.
Really good story.