Adrift

Book Review: Adrift by M.A. Hunter

Rating: 3.5/5 stars

Adrift by M.A. Hunter is a thrilling locked-room mystery that takes readers on a suspenseful ride aboard a private yacht in the Balearics. With a group of old friends, a stag do, and a dark secret, this novel offers a fast-paced and entertaining read that will keep you hooked until the very end.

The story revolves around Pete and his friends who embark on a celebratory trip for Fergus' upcoming wedding. Expecting nothing more than a sun-soaked vacation filled with alcohol and laughter, they soon discover that their past is not so easily forgotten. As the events unfold, they find themselves entangled in a terrible incident from their university days that they have desperately tried to leave behind.

One of the strengths of Adrift lies in its atmospheric setting. The author skillfully captures the essence of being adrift at sea, creating a sense of isolation and vulnerability that adds to the tension of the story. Hunter's detailed descriptions transport readers to the yacht, making them feel like they are right there, experiencing the fear and uncertainty alongside the characters.

The plot of Adrift is gripping and keeps you guessing throughout the book. It is a classic locked-room mystery with a twist, as the characters are trapped on a yacht with no means of escape. This sense of confinement heightens the suspense and adds an extra layer of intrigue to the story. While the plot may be a little far-fetched at times, it doesn't detract from the overall enjoyment of the book.

However, one area where Adrift could have been improved is in the development of the backstory of the landlord. The character's motivations and actions needed to be fleshed out more in order to fully understand their role in the unfolding events. This lack of depth left some loose ends that could have added more depth and complexity to the story.

In terms of character development, the cast of Adrift is adequate but not particularly memorable. While each character brings their own quirks and personalities to the table, they lack a certain depth that would have made them truly engaging. Despite this, their interactions and dynamics create enough intrigue to keep readers invested in their fates.

The ending of Adrift may leave some readers slightly disappointed. It feels a bit anticlimactic compared to the tension built up throughout the book. However, it does tie up loose ends and provides closure to the central mystery. It could have benefited from a stronger resolution that matched the intensity of the story leading up to that point.

Overall, Adrift by M.A. Hunter is an enjoyable read that falls somewhere between three and four stars. It offers an engaging locked-room mystery set aboard a yacht in the Balearics, with fast-paced action and an atmospheric setting. While the plot may stretch believability at times and some characters lack depth, it is still a quick and easy read that will keep you entertained. If you enjoy suspenseful mysteries with an intriguing setting, Adrift is worth checking out. I look forward to exploring more books by this author in the future.

ARC Via NetGalley