Sanctuary : Book Review

Sanctuary by Jeffrey J. Mariotte is a mesmerizing and suspenseful novel that takes readers on a gripping journey filled with mystery and supernatural intrigue. Set in the quaint town of Oldfield, Arizona, the story revolves around the protagonist, Travis Cote, who is compelled to confront his dark past and unravel the ancient secrets that have long been buried in the town's foundations.

The narrative begins with Travis reluctantly returning to Oldfield to attend his mother's funeral, only to find himself enveloped in an eerie and unsettling atmosphere that permeates the town. As he delves deeper into the enigma of Oldfield, Travis stumbles upon a startling revelation: the town serves as a refuge not only for its human residents but also for supernatural beings seeking sanctuary and protection. This discovery sets off a chain of events that threatens the safety and sanity of everyone in Oldfield.

Mariotte expertly blends elements of horror, mystery, and fantasy, crafting a truly unique and enthralling tale. The pacing of the story is perfectly executed, gradually intensifying the tension and suspense with each new chapter. The author's descriptive writing style immerses readers in the haunting and mysterious world of Oldfield, allowing them to vividly visualize the eerie landscapes and dynamic characters.

The characters in Sanctuary are richly developed and relatable, each with their own compelling backstory. Travis undergoes a profound transformation throughout the course of the novel as he confronts his personal demons and embraces his true nature. The supporting cast contributes depth to the story, each harboring their own intriguing secrets and motives.

The novel explores thought-provoking themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the power of hidden truths. Mariotte effortlessly blends supernatural elements with raw human emotions, resulting in a story that is not only enthralling but also deeply resonant.

What are readers saying?

Jeffrey J. Mariotte's novel "Sanctuary" has received a range of reviews, with readers expressing both positive and negative feedback. The book follows the journey of Gabriel Torrent, a gunfighter seeking redemption in a small town that harbors dark secrets.

A number of reviewers praised Mariotte's writing style, commending his ability to create vivid imagery and develop realistic characters. They found the plot to be captivating, particularly with its Western setting that added depth to the story. The author's attention to historical details was also appreciated, as it added authenticity and immersed readers in the narrative.

However, there were readers who had criticisms of "Sanctuary." Some felt the pacing was slow, making it challenging to maintain engagement with the story. They found the plot predictable and the characters lacking depth, dampening their emotional connection to the novel. In addition, there were comments about Mariotte relying too heavily on clichés and stereotypes common in Western genre storytelling.

Despite the mixed feedback, many readers agreed that the book had a satisfying conclusion that tied up loose ends effectively. The resolution of the main story arcs was appreciated, as it provided a solid finale.

In addition to the story itself, several readers commended the quality of the audiobook narration by Scott Brick. They praised Brick's ability to bring the characters to life, enhancing the immersive experience of listening to the book.

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