The Folly

I love Gemma Amor’s writing. Her descriptions are so on point, it’s easy to feel like you’re right there. And I especially liked the way Morgan was written. She’s a complicated character who has been through something extremely traumatic and has all sorts of conflicting feelings about it. The way she treated her father was realistic and everything she felt was laid bare, even when she had horrible thoughts. I appreciated that, as I feel that a lot of times, the main character of a story doesn’t have enough realistic flaws or negative thoughts in order to keep them as likable as possible, but I prefer a character that feels more true to life.

I enjoyed the setup of the mystery and the arrival of the stranger was truly unnerving. I have to admit that I didn’t like the ending at first as I felt it was too confusing. But I read through bits of it a second time and found that while I was still a little confused by a couple things, I liked it more than I did originally. Sometimes, even if I don’t get all the answers I want, the writing and the premise are just too good, and that’s the case for me with The Folly.

I’d like to thank both Datura Books and Netgalley, from whom I received an ARC of this book.

Book Review: The Folly by Gemma Amor

⭐⭐⭐ Stars

Summary: Morgan has spent the past six years campaigning for her father's release from prison, convinced of his innocence in her mother's murder. When her father is finally set free, they are forced to leave their home, which holds painful memories. Salvation comes in the form of an alluring offer to live in a mysterious granite tower known as “The Folly.” Initially idyllic, Morgan's newfound sanctuary takes a dark turn when a stranger arrives, resembling her deceased mother and wearing her clothes. This stranger's motives remain shrouded in mystery - are they seeking vengeance, connected to Morgan's mother's restless spirit, or simply deranged? Unfolding against a lonely Cornish backdrop, The Folly draws inspiration from The Lighthouse and Du Maurier's Rebecca, exploring themes of family drama and betrayal.

Review: The Folly excels in creating an immersive and atmospheric setting that transports readers to the hauntingly beautiful Cornish coastline. Amor's descriptive prose brings the granite tower to life, with its eerie ambiance and secrets waiting to be unraveled. The gothic elements are masterfully executed, adding a layer of intrigue to the narrative and evoking a sense of unease that keeps readers engaged throughout.

However, where The Folly falls slightly short is in its plot development. The story feels rushed at times, leaving readers craving a deeper exploration of the characters and their motivations. With a longer book length, Amor could have further fleshed out the intricate relationships and provided more nuanced insights into the characters' psyches. This would have added depth to the mystery and allowed readers to connect on a more emotional level.

That being said, The Folly remains an enjoyable and quick read. Despite its brevity, Amor manages to create well-rounded characters who elicit empathy and curiosity. Morgan's unwavering belief in her father's innocence and her desperate search for answers are relatable and keep the reader invested in her journey.

In conclusion, The Folly by Gemma Amor is an atmospheric gothic mystery that captivates with its haunting setting and dark examination of love, guilt, and betrayal. While the plot may have benefited from further development, it remains an enjoyable read for those seeking a quick escape into a world of mystery and intrigue.

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️