4 out of 5 stars.
I would like to thank Simon & Schuster (Australia) for providing me with a free ARC of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an open and honest review.
This book was a little different for me. It was general fiction that almost had the feeling of literary fiction to me as well as having that taste of intrigue and mystery I do so enjoy. Add to that the, for me, almost local feel and imagery that brought to life memories of my own and… wow, what a great read.
And I really must thank Simon & Schuster (Australia) again as they are one of the first major Australian publishers to take me on as a reviewer and boy was I not disappointed by the quality of read I was given! Don’t get me wrong Indie publishers I review for all the time! I love a lot of the stuff you let me read too… but to get my hands on something so well-written, Australian, set in the same state I live in and all in all just so engrossing – I really felt special getting to read this. Like someone had slipped the blue ribbon ice cream in the home brand labelled container again! 😉
‘Running against the tide’ started out like a bit of a home coming/ coming of age story and I did wonder what I was doing reading it – as it seemed so unlike my usual genre. And then the little tendrils of mystery started to unfurl and grab my attention. By the end of the book – and that fantastic red herring in the basket – wow! It literally was a page turner I could not, and would, not put down. I was reading it at the same time as I am meant to be reading one of my favourite authors… and HER book was put to one side so I could race to the finish to see what happened with ‘Running against the tide’.
And I was not disappointed. The story run its course, wrapped itself up nicely and ended well. None of that ‘I’ve reached my word limit so can just stop’ sorts of endings… no, ‘Running against the tide’ was indeed a quality read from start to finish and smoothly glided through, tidying up as it went and then ending with a smile and a wave goodbye to the reader. Loved it.
Would I recommend this book to others?
Yes I would. I can’t really express why, but this was just a great read. The South Australian link, the ocean living, the compelling characters and the mystery, thrill and even slight supernatural touch – It might not be my usual read, but it was amazing and seriously, if you like a good Australian based tale, you will love it too.
Would I buy this book for myself?
I would, despite it not being my usual sort of read. It was just… GOOD. And good enough I’d be proud to own a paper copy to show off to people and rave about if given the chance. It is just a compelling, addictive and well written story, what more can I say?
In summary: This book is great. Perfect pace, believable characters, fantastic setting and a good mix of finding oneself, mystery and just… life. Highly recommend it.
Until next time,
Janis.
Janis's Journal 