Eynhallow Review

I went on a search for a Frankenstein retelling for a post I’m doing later in the month. I stumbled upon Eynhallow and I’m so glad I did. Let’s get to my review.

Synopsis

ORKNEY ISLANDS, 1797 – Agnes Tulloch feels a little cheated. This windswept place is not the island paradise her husband promised it to be when they wed. Now with four young children, she struggles to provide for her family while her husband grows increasingly distant.

When a stranger comes ashore to rent an abandoned cottage, Agnes and the other islanders are abuzz with curiosity. Who is this wealthy foreigner and why on earth would he come to Eynhallow? Her curiosity is soon replaced with vexation when her husband hires her out as cook and washerwoman, leaving Agnes with no say in the matter. Agnes begrudgingly befriends this aristocrat-in-exile; a mercurial scientist who toils night and day on some secret pursuit. Despite herself, she’s drawn to his dark, brooding charm. And who is this Byronic stranger sweeping Agnes off her feet? His name is Frankenstein and he’s come to this remote isle to fulfill a monstrous obligation.

My Thoughts on Eynhallow

Eynhallow made me feel all of the emotions. It’s gritty, it’s gross, but more than anything it is heart-breaking. Actually, heart-shattering. I sobbed at parts of this story. That didn’t take away from the overwhelming horror and desperation that this story invokes though.

The atmosphere of this book was super interesting. It’s set on a desolate island where nothing changes, and everyone lives the same life. The story feels bleak and it only gets darker. If you’re a mother this might be a hard read for you due to several circumstances so keep that in mind.

Lastly, I loved the portrayal of Frankenstein. He feels very similar to the original. He seems fine at first and then his true side comes out. Honestly, I can’t say more than this because I don’t want to ruin anything. But I promise it takes a turn that changes everything. This is a perfect spooky season read, and I urge you to read it.

My Rating: 5/5

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