The Sanctuary by Andrew Hunter Murray

I was given an ARC of this book and found it to be intriguing.

This is a book about questions – most especially, the future of humans and life on Earth. Ben is an artist and loves Cara, his fiancée, but she leaves him to join an island, which is meant to be paradise for future generations.

Much of the story, for me, highlighted the inequality of human society – those not on the island are separated by the haves and have-nots, those in power (rich) taking everything they want, while the rest suffer poverty and hard work. Many of the situations reminded me of today’s world, where ‘riches’ are kept for the lucky few and how disgusting humans are because all they do is take – the richer they are, the more they take, regardless of the consequences.

In some ways, I agreed with John Pemberley’s point of view – saving all creatures /flora, living within our means – to stop ravaging the Earth, however...

Ben is determined to find out what has happened to Cara. His love for her is all-encompassing, as is his art. He’s a likeable character and I enjoyed his ‘journey’ trying to work out what was the truth – who to believe?

I liked the first-person narrative and the fast-paced writing style. I don’t give spoilers, but will say that this story is filled with mystery, salient points about humans, questions about what the future should bring, what is right, what is wrong and does childhood shape your adult thinking?

Some great twists, turns and surprises!

Thoroughly enjoyable and thought-provoking.

Highly recommended.