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Sundial

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'Sundial' by Catriona Ward is a complex horror novel that delves into themes of trauma, domestic abuse, and animal cruelty. The narrative is enthralling and addictive, with a dual timeline structure that keeps the reader fully immersed in the story. The book explores the nature of goodness, the impact of trauma, and the blurred lines between good and evil through a modern, horrifying, and scientific lens.

The story unfolds through a series of twists and turns, leading the reader through a mysterious and unnerving gothic tale. The characters are deep and dark, each with their own flaws and complexities, making them feel like real, living beings. Ward's writing style is unique, with visionary wordplay and a narrative that keeps readers guessing until the last chapter.

Characters:

The characters are deeply layered and morally complex, featuring strong female leads that navigate dark, multifaceted relationships.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is atmospheric and descriptive, creating an engaging and eerie experience that supports the complex narrative.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative is twisty, incorporating various surprising elements that may feel excessive or confusing to some, yet also enriches the exploration of its dark themes.

Setting:

The setting in the Mojave Desert enhances the story's unsettling tone, emphasizing isolation and contributing to the character's emotional journeys.

Pacing:

The pacing fluctuates throughout, starting strong but slowing down with extensive flashbacks, ultimately gaining momentum towards a gripping conclusion.

Notes:

Sundial is a psychological horror novel by Catriona Ward.
The book involves complex character dynamics, including mother-daughter and sister relationships.
Many readers found the plot twisty with several unexpected revelations.
Some of the book's themes include trauma, nature versus nurture, and the complexities of memory.
Readers noted the atmospheric setting of the Mojave Desert throughout the book.
The narrative style combines contemporary storytelling with flashbacks, making it non-linear and intricate.
Animal abuse is a significant plot point, which some readers found disturbing.
The book received mixed reviews, with some enjoying the unpredictability, while others felt frustrated by the pacing or complexity.
Catriona Ward is recognized for her unique ability to blend horror with deep psychological themes, creating compelling, flawed characters.
It engages with ideas of good and evil, questioning the influence of environment and upbringing on behavior.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Triggers for child abuse, animal abuse, domestic violence, and psychological trauma are present throughout the book.

From The Publisher:

"DO NOT MISS THIS BOOK. Authentically terrifying." -Stephen King

Sharp as a snakebite, Sundial is a gripping novel about the secrets we bury from the ones we love most, from Catriona Ward, the author of The Last House on Needless Street.

Rob has spent her life running from Sundial, the family's ranch deep in the Mojave Desert, and her childhood memories.

But she's worried about her daughter, Callie, who collects animal bones and whispers to imaginary friends. It reminds her of a darkness that runs in her family, and Rob knows it's time to return.

Callie is terrified of her mother. Rob digs holes in the backyard late at night, and tells disturbing stories about growing up on the ranch. Soon Callie begins to fear that only one of them will leave Sundial alive...

"This book will haunt you."-Alex Michaelides, New York Times bestselling author

"An unthinkable feat." -The New York Times Book Review

At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.

Ratings (16)

Loved It (10)
Liked It (4)
It Was OK (1)
Did Not Like (1)

Reader Stats (31):

Read It (16)
Want To Read (14)
Not Interested (1)

1 comment(s)

Loved It
1 month

Twisty good fun!

 
 
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