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The Island
Jody, Ari, and Carla have won golden tickets to the summer’s hottest music festival, which promises to be full of glamour, mystique and lots of freebies. But upon arrival at the sun-drenched shores of a private Greek island among influencers and celebrities, the trio are dismayed to find the small festival site far from the beacon of music, art, and "immersive experiences" they were promised. Disappointed but not deterred, they vow to make the most of the trip. Then a shocking discovery on day three turns the festival into a nightmare, and they find themselves trapped on the island with no escape.
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 15, 2024
789 people are currently reading
663 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Goodwin
24 books775 followersAlso writing as Amy Cunningham (The Serial Killer's Party) and Amelia Wildwood (rom-com coming in summer 2026)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews
October 2, 2024
Excellent! Goodwin at her absolute best. Very Orginal and although it might seem OTT I believed in it. It was sinister and emotional, and I loved every single page.
August 25, 2024
i’d skip this one, and read ‘stranded’ by the author, that was actually a good thriller!
July 6, 2024
ARC for review. To be published August 15, 2024.
A book based on the ill-fated Fyre festival sounded like a great idea. And it still does. Not this one, though, because despite the description it really isn’t based on that festival at all, plus it’s poorly written and has such a ridiculous ending that everything that came before it doesn’t even matter.
If you care, Jodi,Ari and Carla are roommates who have won tickets to the music festival of the summer, set to take place on a Greek island. It’s going to be super exclusive, filled with influencers and celebrities (there are none of either of these, by the way, and once they arrive the girls don’t seem concerned by the fact that there aren’t any. The fact never comes up.). When they arrive it’s a bit different than advertised. Then things get worse.
So, as I said, the description doesn’t really match what happens in the book, and the book leaves a lot to be desired. You could have your easy-to-please teen read it if you want to warn her off music festivals, I guess. I’ll give it one star extra for that possible service as a PSA.
A book based on the ill-fated Fyre festival sounded like a great idea. And it still does. Not this one, though, because despite the description it really isn’t based on that festival at all, plus it’s poorly written and has such a ridiculous ending that everything that came before it doesn’t even matter.
If you care, Jodi,Ari and Carla are roommates who have won tickets to the music festival of the summer, set to take place on a Greek island. It’s going to be super exclusive, filled with influencers and celebrities (there are none of either of these, by the way, and once they arrive the girls don’t seem concerned by the fact that there aren’t any. The fact never comes up.). When they arrive it’s a bit different than advertised. Then things get worse.
So, as I said, the description doesn’t really match what happens in the book, and the book leaves a lot to be desired. You could have your easy-to-please teen read it if you want to warn her off music festivals, I guess. I’ll give it one star extra for that possible service as a PSA.
August 15, 2024
After fleeing from her violent ex-boyfriend, Jody is staying with Ari & Carla who she knows from a houseshare situation at university a couple of years ago. After a run-in with her ex, Jody has been letting her coursework & attendance slide & generally feeling down, so when they win tickets to a music festival on a private Greek island, it seems like the perfect antidote.
When they arrive though, things are not as advertised - instead of the luxury they were expecting, the beach is covered in broken concrete blocks & rubbish, the food & drink is low standard, & the whole venue smells of rotting food. Jody wants to go home although she is persuaded to stay by her friends, but as time passes, she begins to wonder if she can trust them, especially when her passport disappears & she's sure she glimpses her ex in the crowd.
Reviews seem quite split on this one but my rating sort of falls in the middle. It definitely wasn't quite as thrilling as the synopsis made it sound, in fact Jody's continuous doormat ways were a little irritating, but there was enough to keep me interested in reading on. It turned out to be a just- above-average thriller, with some good twists & turns, but the ending was a little unrealistic (& believe me, I'm underselling it here). There were good points though & as I have some of the author's other books, I will be giving them a read at some point. 3.5 stars (rounded up).
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Avon Books UK, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
When they arrive though, things are not as advertised - instead of the luxury they were expecting, the beach is covered in broken concrete blocks & rubbish, the food & drink is low standard, & the whole venue smells of rotting food. Jody wants to go home although she is persuaded to stay by her friends, but as time passes, she begins to wonder if she can trust them, especially when her passport disappears & she's sure she glimpses her ex in the crowd.
Reviews seem quite split on this one but my rating sort of falls in the middle. It definitely wasn't quite as thrilling as the synopsis made it sound, in fact Jody's continuous doormat ways were a little irritating, but there was enough to keep me interested in reading on. It turned out to be a just- above-average thriller, with some good twists & turns, but the ending was a little unrealistic (& believe me, I'm underselling it here). There were good points though & as I have some of the author's other books, I will be giving them a read at some point. 3.5 stars (rounded up).
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Avon Books UK, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
July 16, 2024
Definitely not my favourite Sarah Goodwin book. I was. looking forward to reading it but it’s very slow and repetitive.
Not a book I would recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Not a book I would recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
September 28, 2024
Why on earth was the trigger warning at the end of the book lol
September 17, 2024
A thoroughly painful slog. So many spoilers ahead. The main character has an overbearing and emotionally abusive mother, and as the story opens, she has also just escaped from an abusive boyfriend, whom she has told no one the truth about. It was at this point I began to think, “girl…you have nationalized healthcare, are we seeking therapy or what?” “Or what” seems to be the answer as she agrees to a music festival trip in Greece with her housemates, despite (1) being so anxious and reactive that even her friends speaking her name in public makes her jump. Every. Single. Time. And (2) she hates travel, crowds, lack of privacy, and literally every thing about the trip - which also, she has no money for. Yeah! Let’s go! Turns out this music festival is a scam a la Fyre Fest. Pages upon pages of Jody constantly in fight or flight. This girl has never met a decision where she couldn’t make the absolute worst choice despite internal dialogue indicating she knew how stupid she was being. She trusts absolutely no one around her - except for this Eastern European dude she randomly meets at the festival who she immediately falls in love with and AGREES TO SLEEP IN HIS TENT AFTER LEAVING HER GIRLFRIENDS. SURPRISE! He’s the bad guy. Oh! Turns out Jody didn’t need therapy, she just needed to be chased down and threatened by music festival drug dealer guy. After fending off a knife attack - EVERYTHING IS NOW CLEAR! She knows exactly how to deal with her abusive ex and her crappy mom. Her anxiety is gone. Honestly, if I wasn’t behind on my goal to read 100 books by the end of the year I would have DNF’d this like 6 chapters in.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2024
My goodness this book was kind of annoying with the main character and just the decisions she made. I think the whole plot was really stupid and just was not believable. Also I wanted away from insta love hehehhehehe. Gosh I can’t believe this might be my last book of the year hehehhehe.
May 18, 2025
This story takes place at a large outdoor concert on an island. You can actually smell the rank garbage, smoke, and see drunken participants in the author’s descriptions. I felt dirty just reading it. While it read a bit slow, I could still relate to the characters in the book. The twist was a bit far fetched, but overall, it was an interesting book.
June 3, 2024
This is my second Sarah Goodwin thriller and it didn’t disappoint. A slow start to build tension, culminating in some big reveals.
After a bad break up Jody moves back in with her friends from university. Feeling pressured to succeed and make big life decisions she reluctantly joins her friends at a festival in Greece. She keeps thinking she sees her narcissistic ex boyfriend in the crowd, and then when a girl who looks like her goes missing, her anxiety kicks in. Who can Jody trust??
Suspenseful and atmospheric.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC
After a bad break up Jody moves back in with her friends from university. Feeling pressured to succeed and make big life decisions she reluctantly joins her friends at a festival in Greece. She keeps thinking she sees her narcissistic ex boyfriend in the crowd, and then when a girl who looks like her goes missing, her anxiety kicks in. Who can Jody trust??
Suspenseful and atmospheric.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC
July 19, 2025
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Really enjoyed this, but the ending was absolutely ridiculous I had to mark it down from four to three stars.
Really enjoyed this, but the ending was absolutely ridiculous I had to mark it down from four to three stars.
August 20, 2025
This book could not decide what it was about.
Loosely set in a Fyre Festival environment, this "thriller" (air quotes because I was not once thrilled) is told through the eyes of Jody, a young woman who recently left an abusive relationship, as she and friends travel to an island in Greece for a music festival that is not what it seems. The premise is promising, but there were way too many plot lines, every character is insufferable and the "twist" seems like it was picked out of a hat of thriller genre buzzwords.
I was beyond frustrated through the whole book, which is disappointing as I typically turn to Goodwin for a good, albeit mindless, thriller. There were zero redeeming qualities.
ROSE 🌹: N/A
I can't think of anything that I liked.
THORN 🗡️: COULDN'T DECIDE WHAT IT WAS, JODY'S ANXIETY, HORRIBLE PEOPLE
As I said, the narrative could just not figure itself out. The whole "disastrous" festival aspect, which seems like it would be the main plot point, doesn't really even become anything important until the end (and it's poorly explained/set up). It wanted to be a psychological thriller, a feminist awakening about women finding their power, a murder mystery and a heartwarming story about friends all in one, which would be fine if it was executed properly, but it was not.
Jody suffers from severe anxiety, and it impacts every aspect of her life. Since this is a first person POV, we get to see her spiraling out about every single thing that happens to her. If it was better written, perhaps this could have worked, but it just became super annoying. And I say this as a person with severe anxiety and some tendencies similar to hers.
In almost every single Goodwin book I've read, every single side character is an absolutely horrible person. Where are all of her protagonists finding these friends?? Not to sound like a broken record, but this might have worked except for the fact that her friends are given a redemption arc even though they are horrible to her for the majority of the book.
BUD 🌷: ONE BAD EGG
I'm writing this off as an anomaly of Goodwin's books, and I still will be picking up more of her thrillers when I'm in the mood. I actually have one in my Kindle library right now.
Loosely set in a Fyre Festival environment, this "thriller" (air quotes because I was not once thrilled) is told through the eyes of Jody, a young woman who recently left an abusive relationship, as she and friends travel to an island in Greece for a music festival that is not what it seems. The premise is promising, but there were way too many plot lines, every character is insufferable and the "twist" seems like it was picked out of a hat of thriller genre buzzwords.
I was beyond frustrated through the whole book, which is disappointing as I typically turn to Goodwin for a good, albeit mindless, thriller. There were zero redeeming qualities.
ROSE 🌹: N/A
I can't think of anything that I liked.
THORN 🗡️: COULDN'T DECIDE WHAT IT WAS, JODY'S ANXIETY, HORRIBLE PEOPLE
As I said, the narrative could just not figure itself out. The whole "disastrous" festival aspect, which seems like it would be the main plot point, doesn't really even become anything important until the end (and it's poorly explained/set up). It wanted to be a psychological thriller, a feminist awakening about women finding their power, a murder mystery and a heartwarming story about friends all in one, which would be fine if it was executed properly, but it was not.
Jody suffers from severe anxiety, and it impacts every aspect of her life. Since this is a first person POV, we get to see her spiraling out about every single thing that happens to her. If it was better written, perhaps this could have worked, but it just became super annoying. And I say this as a person with severe anxiety and some tendencies similar to hers.
In almost every single Goodwin book I've read, every single side character is an absolutely horrible person. Where are all of her protagonists finding these friends?? Not to sound like a broken record, but this might have worked except for the fact that her friends are given a redemption arc even though they are horrible to her for the majority of the book.
BUD 🌷: ONE BAD EGG
I'm writing this off as an anomaly of Goodwin's books, and I still will be picking up more of her thrillers when I'm in the mood. I actually have one in my Kindle library right now.
July 10, 2025
I'm not quite sure how I feel about this one.... I know loads of other people have raved about it but it just felt a little 'meh' to me. The opening was really good, fast paced, full of drama and got me immediately hooked needing to find out how the situation had occurred and how it was going to pan out. Then we go back in time and things slow down a bit... this is fair enough as the author is trying to build the back picture of the characters and their relationships. but I think I would have preferred the pace to stay the same. This back story also makes you feel like the book is going to head in a certain direction - which you should never trust as of course the author wants to lead you down the wrong path!
As we got to the festival it just felt a bit off and weird to me, not that I've been to many festivals but it just felt a bit out of place, again very much the same reaction as the characters but it just made me feel that it wasn't very believable rather than thinking something was up if that makes sense. I did like how things progressed at the festival, there were definitely elements of drama and tension but I feel like it didn't quite live up to the opening chapter and then when the end came I was a bit like oh... ok.
It was OK and definitely had elements that were amazing but just not quite my cup of tea
As we got to the festival it just felt a bit off and weird to me, not that I've been to many festivals but it just felt a bit out of place, again very much the same reaction as the characters but it just made me feel that it wasn't very believable rather than thinking something was up if that makes sense. I did like how things progressed at the festival, there were definitely elements of drama and tension but I feel like it didn't quite live up to the opening chapter and then when the end came I was a bit like oh... ok.
It was OK and definitely had elements that were amazing but just not quite my cup of tea
August 7, 2024
I've always enjoyed Sarah Goodwin's books. She excels in creating difficult and sometimes dangerous situations for her characters and leaving the reader wondering how it will all play out. In The Island begins in the future, where Jodie, attending a music festival in Greece, is trying to escape from someone. She is pushing through crowds of people and then the unthinkable happens. A shout goes up that someone has been stabbed, creating havoc among the festival-goers, and knocking her to the ground.
On the surface, it seems Jodie is someone who wants to fit in. She’s quiet and introverted, seems unable to break away from her mother’s ‘wise warnings’, and tends to be bullied or put upon by others. Currently living with her old student friends Ari and Carla, she has just escaped from a relationship with her controlling and vicious boyfriend Nick. When Carla wins tickets for a festival on a Greek island, at first she is reluctant to go, but on further consideration feels putting a thousand miles between her and Nick might not be a bad thing.
Sadly, Lethe, the island where the festival is taking place, is not exactly the Mediterranean paradise they anticipated. The girls arrive with positive expectations but are soon faced with the fact that despite the music and party atmosphere, the island itself is full of broken concrete, yellow dust, and rotting rubbish. It will prove a testing time for Jodie, with some edge of the seat scenarios.
The Island is an entertaining read, although I have to say I didn’t enjoy it as much as some of her previous books - Stranded being my all time favourite.
I would like to thank Avon, the author and Netgalley for an ARC of The Island in exchange for an honest review.
On the surface, it seems Jodie is someone who wants to fit in. She’s quiet and introverted, seems unable to break away from her mother’s ‘wise warnings’, and tends to be bullied or put upon by others. Currently living with her old student friends Ari and Carla, she has just escaped from a relationship with her controlling and vicious boyfriend Nick. When Carla wins tickets for a festival on a Greek island, at first she is reluctant to go, but on further consideration feels putting a thousand miles between her and Nick might not be a bad thing.
Sadly, Lethe, the island where the festival is taking place, is not exactly the Mediterranean paradise they anticipated. The girls arrive with positive expectations but are soon faced with the fact that despite the music and party atmosphere, the island itself is full of broken concrete, yellow dust, and rotting rubbish. It will prove a testing time for Jodie, with some edge of the seat scenarios.
The Island is an entertaining read, although I have to say I didn’t enjoy it as much as some of her previous books - Stranded being my all time favourite.
I would like to thank Avon, the author and Netgalley for an ARC of The Island in exchange for an honest review.
August 10, 2024
Jody and her two friends have won tickets to the Greek music festival everyone is talking about, which promises luxury and immersive experiences. Once there they are disappointed to find it is nothing like promised. Soon shocking events occur. Will they make it away from the festival?
I was intrigued to read this as it seemed a similar plot to real events which I found fascinating at the time and also trope I usually enjoy. I have read most of this author’s previous books, some I have liked more than others, but I especially loved Stranded. Although this was a (sort of) similar concept to Stranded, I didn’t find it as entertaining, likely because the sub plot seemed to take centre stage. The writing style wasn’t bad but I feel like it took quite a while for the plot to go anywhere and was slightly repetitive.
I enjoyed the setting and found the atmosphere described well. There was a sense of mystery, however due to the pace my interest wasn’t held. The ending was quite unbelievable and I’m not sure if it worked fully. I would definitely pick up another by this author as I know she can write fantastic thrillers. This would suit those looking for an easy holiday read. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
I was intrigued to read this as it seemed a similar plot to real events which I found fascinating at the time and also trope I usually enjoy. I have read most of this author’s previous books, some I have liked more than others, but I especially loved Stranded. Although this was a (sort of) similar concept to Stranded, I didn’t find it as entertaining, likely because the sub plot seemed to take centre stage. The writing style wasn’t bad but I feel like it took quite a while for the plot to go anywhere and was slightly repetitive.
I enjoyed the setting and found the atmosphere described well. There was a sense of mystery, however due to the pace my interest wasn’t held. The ending was quite unbelievable and I’m not sure if it worked fully. I would definitely pick up another by this author as I know she can write fantastic thrillers. This would suit those looking for an easy holiday read. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
September 15, 2024
Jody, Ari, and Carla have won tickets to a music festival. When they arrive they realise it isn't the glitzy festival they were expecting disappointed but determined to make the most of the trip they join the party. Then a shocking discovery on day three turns the festival into a nightmare, and they find themselves trapped on the island with no escape.
I am a big fan of Sarah Goodwin but this book just didn't quite hit for me the first 50% was quite boring and dragged on I almost DNF. The second half of the book did pick up and I was invested in the story. I did find this to be a creepy atmospheric read and even being at a festival surrounded by people I got the feeling I get from an isolated setting read. I will still definitely read anything else Sarah Goodwin writes even though this one was a bit of a let downfor me.
Thank you to Netgalley, Avon Books UK and Sarah Goodwin for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I am a big fan of Sarah Goodwin but this book just didn't quite hit for me the first 50% was quite boring and dragged on I almost DNF. The second half of the book did pick up and I was invested in the story. I did find this to be a creepy atmospheric read and even being at a festival surrounded by people I got the feeling I get from an isolated setting read. I will still definitely read anything else Sarah Goodwin writes even though this one was a bit of a let downfor me.
Thank you to Netgalley, Avon Books UK and Sarah Goodwin for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2024
2.5 rounded up. I love Sarah Goodwin and usually devour our books. This one just wasn't giving what I came to expect. The story is similar to the horrible Frye Festival, but that was the only interesting thing. I just felt lost when reading. The plot went completely off the rails to something so unexpected, and the MC was whiny and weak. I was really looking forward to this release, but this book let me down.
August 22, 2024
Slow start, rollicking and satisfying finish. Sarah is always good for a quick pull you in book. This one starts off a bit slow for me, but that could be bc I dislike large festivals. The main character in her books always has character flaws, almost always insecure. But that is what makes the endings so fun!
February 7, 2025
I wish I could give this negative stars.
June 22, 2025
3.5 stars
August 3, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of The Island by Sarah Goodwin.
I could not put this down!! Every time I thought there couldn’t be another cliffhanger, it came and smacked me in the face! I have read a couple of Sarah’s books before, The Yacht being my favourite, and this definitely was on a par.
I didn’t predict the ending, it was teased all the way through the book, but I wasn’t expecting the big climax.
Thoroughly enjoyed every page, a big 5/5 stars from me!
I could not put this down!! Every time I thought there couldn’t be another cliffhanger, it came and smacked me in the face! I have read a couple of Sarah’s books before, The Yacht being my favourite, and this definitely was on a par.
I didn’t predict the ending, it was teased all the way through the book, but I wasn’t expecting the big climax.
Thoroughly enjoyed every page, a big 5/5 stars from me!
September 26, 2025
I really wish I could give zero stars.
I struggled, folks, to even finish this one, and that "I can't stand this book" feeling kicked in by about 20% of the way through. The main character was SO annoying and dull. Yes, abusive boyfriends suck, but OMG, you're an adult. Pull yourself together, seek therapy, and move on. Yes, the guy was overbearing, and yes, he would grab your wrist and throw things, and yes, he wanted a friend to have a threesome. But taking that and building it into an OMG he is stalking me, and his friends are stalking me, and OMG I'm the center of the universe? Too. Much.
All of that is before even addressing this dumb festival. I'm guessing I'm showing my age, and there are festivals like this that are all the rage. Living in a tent shoulder to shoulder with thousands of other people and attending concerts all day and night doesn't seem remotely fun to me. But again...my age.
All that aside...if I were going on a dream vacation of any type and found out the moment I got there that the atmosphere, promised amenities, etc., weren't as advertised, I would leave instantly. I'd charge up credit card debt just to change my plane tickets or get a hotel room for a few days just to avoid that shattered dream vacation. Compound that reaction by ten if the place had no staff visible, smelled instantly of garbage, and presented a beach covered in rubbish and concrete. Good grief - do you need more warning signs that these few days will be awful?
The main character's obsession with her ex-boyfriend, her tendency to doubt everything, and her anxiety over every little thing were just exhausting. Her eventual "redemption" was obvious in coming and tedious in finally getting there. She was interesting for about 10% of the book. Honestly, her poor long-suffering friends!
I've read a lot of Sarah Goodwin's books, and I feel like they're becoming increasingly intolerable. It's unfortunate because she has really good premises, but the characters and story just don't live up to her plot ideas.
I struggled, folks, to even finish this one, and that "I can't stand this book" feeling kicked in by about 20% of the way through. The main character was SO annoying and dull. Yes, abusive boyfriends suck, but OMG, you're an adult. Pull yourself together, seek therapy, and move on. Yes, the guy was overbearing, and yes, he would grab your wrist and throw things, and yes, he wanted a friend to have a threesome. But taking that and building it into an OMG he is stalking me, and his friends are stalking me, and OMG I'm the center of the universe? Too. Much.
All of that is before even addressing this dumb festival. I'm guessing I'm showing my age, and there are festivals like this that are all the rage. Living in a tent shoulder to shoulder with thousands of other people and attending concerts all day and night doesn't seem remotely fun to me. But again...my age.
All that aside...if I were going on a dream vacation of any type and found out the moment I got there that the atmosphere, promised amenities, etc., weren't as advertised, I would leave instantly. I'd charge up credit card debt just to change my plane tickets or get a hotel room for a few days just to avoid that shattered dream vacation. Compound that reaction by ten if the place had no staff visible, smelled instantly of garbage, and presented a beach covered in rubbish and concrete. Good grief - do you need more warning signs that these few days will be awful?
The main character's obsession with her ex-boyfriend, her tendency to doubt everything, and her anxiety over every little thing were just exhausting. Her eventual "redemption" was obvious in coming and tedious in finally getting there. She was interesting for about 10% of the book. Honestly, her poor long-suffering friends!
I've read a lot of Sarah Goodwin's books, and I feel like they're becoming increasingly intolerable. It's unfortunate because she has really good premises, but the characters and story just don't live up to her plot ideas.
August 4, 2024
I am a fan of this authors previous books so when I saw she had a new release I jumped at the chance to read it.
The plot of this one definitely seems to be inspired by Fyre festival and some other infamous events and as a big festival goer, this added to my intrigue going in to this.
First off, I liked the setting in Greece and this did really add to the atmosphere throughout the whole book. The relationship between the three friends came across as real and to begin with, I liked them all.
We are following the POV of Jody, who is an unreliable narrator throughout the whole book. This is not my favourite plot device but I went with it.
I was invested right from the start and was interested in what was going to happen. As per usual with this author the writing style really drew me in and kept me reading chapter to chapter and it was all flowing well and it was a easy read.
However for most of the story it did feel like it was just the protagonist running around in circles being paranoid, with not a lot actually happening. This did begin to spoil my enjoyment as it began to feel a bit repetitive and my interest dipped.
Most of the plot happens in the last 20% of the book and by that time I was fed up and annoyed with the character of Jody.
I have to say that I wasn't a fan of how this all played out. It felt a bit ridiculous and I was left feeling disappointed by the ending.
This is not a bad book by any stretch of the imagination and I did enjoy the first half of it. It just didn't completely work for me.
This is my least favourite book by this author but I would read her future releases.
Thanks to Avon Books for the ARC I received in exchange for an honest review
The plot of this one definitely seems to be inspired by Fyre festival and some other infamous events and as a big festival goer, this added to my intrigue going in to this.
First off, I liked the setting in Greece and this did really add to the atmosphere throughout the whole book. The relationship between the three friends came across as real and to begin with, I liked them all.
We are following the POV of Jody, who is an unreliable narrator throughout the whole book. This is not my favourite plot device but I went with it.
I was invested right from the start and was interested in what was going to happen. As per usual with this author the writing style really drew me in and kept me reading chapter to chapter and it was all flowing well and it was a easy read.
However for most of the story it did feel like it was just the protagonist running around in circles being paranoid, with not a lot actually happening. This did begin to spoil my enjoyment as it began to feel a bit repetitive and my interest dipped.
Most of the plot happens in the last 20% of the book and by that time I was fed up and annoyed with the character of Jody.
I have to say that I wasn't a fan of how this all played out. It felt a bit ridiculous and I was left feeling disappointed by the ending.
This is not a bad book by any stretch of the imagination and I did enjoy the first half of it. It just didn't completely work for me.
This is my least favourite book by this author but I would read her future releases.
Thanks to Avon Books for the ARC I received in exchange for an honest review
August 24, 2024
First things first: the author should have stuck with the original title “The Festival”
This book was really boring and predictable. The main character more than anything honestly seemed autistic (Asperger’s syndrome more specifically), which I don’t at all mind (being autistic myself). But besides that, she was exhausting to read and I got so incredibly annoyed the longer it went on. Her mother was also possibly one of the most toxic women I can think of existing with her “any man is better than no man”, “go out and be social, have friends, have the career I expect you to”, “did you just leave your grown up boyfriend to fend for himself for 4 days *gasp!*” just no. Hard no. So yeah, maybe the character isn’t autistic, maybe she’s just damaged as hell from such a toxic mother. Still, lots of the character’s personality traits seemed autistic.
The boyfriend was also toxic, but that was easy to figure out right from the start.
The friends also seemed toxic in the way that they continued trying to convince the main character she was crazy. What is it the kids say? They are not “girls girls”?
Overall this book was not very good. I like the authors other books, but this one definitely didn’t hit the spot. Or any spot. Sorry.
This book was really boring and predictable. The main character more than anything honestly seemed autistic (Asperger’s syndrome more specifically), which I don’t at all mind (being autistic myself). But besides that, she was exhausting to read and I got so incredibly annoyed the longer it went on. Her mother was also possibly one of the most toxic women I can think of existing with her “any man is better than no man”, “go out and be social, have friends, have the career I expect you to”, “did you just leave your grown up boyfriend to fend for himself for 4 days *gasp!*” just no. Hard no. So yeah, maybe the character isn’t autistic, maybe she’s just damaged as hell from such a toxic mother. Still, lots of the character’s personality traits seemed autistic.
The boyfriend was also toxic, but that was easy to figure out right from the start.
The friends also seemed toxic in the way that they continued trying to convince the main character she was crazy. What is it the kids say? They are not “girls girls”?
Overall this book was not very good. I like the authors other books, but this one definitely didn’t hit the spot. Or any spot. Sorry.
July 31, 2024
Rating: 3.4/5
"The Island" is the fourth novel I have ready by Sarah Goodwin and, overall, I think it is the best of them. Both the title and the official synopsis are a little misleading, however. Having read the acknowledgements section, it would seem that the book was originally planned to be entitled, "The Festival", which would have been more appropriate, I feel. It is also not clear from the marketing blurb that the underpinning theme of this novel is coercive control, in a variety of forms. In fairness to her, the author does forewarn readers that there may be triggers within the story and she directs you to her note at the end of the book for further details relating to this.
I have consistently found something appealing about Sarah Goodwin's novels, but I have also been frustrated by them. Each of the previous three books have started promisingly, before seeming rushed in the latter half. In "The Island" the author has made a decent job of addressing this and a more consistent standard is maintained throughout. There are a few convenient plot developments and behaviour that seems a little out of character, but it is generally within the boundaries of fictional acceptability. On the whole, Sarah Goodwin does manage to maintain the reader's interest and deliver a satisfying read with plenty of suspense. I still think there is better to come from this author, so I am sure I will be back for her next offering.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for supplying an ARC in return for an honest review.
"The Island" is the fourth novel I have ready by Sarah Goodwin and, overall, I think it is the best of them. Both the title and the official synopsis are a little misleading, however. Having read the acknowledgements section, it would seem that the book was originally planned to be entitled, "The Festival", which would have been more appropriate, I feel. It is also not clear from the marketing blurb that the underpinning theme of this novel is coercive control, in a variety of forms. In fairness to her, the author does forewarn readers that there may be triggers within the story and she directs you to her note at the end of the book for further details relating to this.
I have consistently found something appealing about Sarah Goodwin's novels, but I have also been frustrated by them. Each of the previous three books have started promisingly, before seeming rushed in the latter half. In "The Island" the author has made a decent job of addressing this and a more consistent standard is maintained throughout. There are a few convenient plot developments and behaviour that seems a little out of character, but it is generally within the boundaries of fictional acceptability. On the whole, Sarah Goodwin does manage to maintain the reader's interest and deliver a satisfying read with plenty of suspense. I still think there is better to come from this author, so I am sure I will be back for her next offering.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for supplying an ARC in return for an honest review.
May 15, 2025
I'm a Goodwin fan, so I can't imagine rating her books under 3 stars unless it was complete shit. Although this book is my least favorite from her so far, I still liked it. They've turned Goodwin's survival thrillers into a series, and book #1 Stranded is a must-read. I'm rethinking my entire rating system for her books, and I'm going to switch my rating of Stranded to 5 stars. I haven't ever stopped thinking of that book, and it blew me away. So, definitely read that one.
"The Island" follows a group of girls as they travel to a music festival taking place at an island in Greece. Jody, Carla, and Ari won tickets and scrounge together money for plane tickets. They are in desperate need of a vacation, and this seems perfect. Jody admittedly isn't too excited, but she wants to escape her ex and try to enjoy herself the best she can. This adventure will turn into a nightmare for these girls, leading them in need to escape the dangers of the island.
The trigger warnings are at the end of this book because they will entirely give away the entire plot and twists. The author does give you the opportunity to read it, but warns it will be major spoilers. I thought the book was pretty tame in the spectrum of thrillers, and I wouldn't recommend reading the trigger warnings if you can help it.
This book isn't a must-read, but if you decide to read the entire series, it's decent, just definitely not the best one.
"The Island" follows a group of girls as they travel to a music festival taking place at an island in Greece. Jody, Carla, and Ari won tickets and scrounge together money for plane tickets. They are in desperate need of a vacation, and this seems perfect. Jody admittedly isn't too excited, but she wants to escape her ex and try to enjoy herself the best she can. This adventure will turn into a nightmare for these girls, leading them in need to escape the dangers of the island.
The trigger warnings are at the end of this book because they will entirely give away the entire plot and twists. The author does give you the opportunity to read it, but warns it will be major spoilers. I thought the book was pretty tame in the spectrum of thrillers, and I wouldn't recommend reading the trigger warnings if you can help it.
This book isn't a must-read, but if you decide to read the entire series, it's decent, just definitely not the best one.
May 24, 2024
The Island by Sarah Goodwin
Rating:4/5
Release Date: 15 August 2024
Jody, Ari, and Carla were ecstatic when they snagged golden tickets to the summer's most hyped music festival, boasting glamour, mystery, and a plethora of freebies. However, their excitement soon turned to dismay upon arriving at a secluded Greek island, surrounded by influencers and celebrities, only to find the festival site lacking the promised allure of music, art, and immersive experiences. Despite their disappointment, they resolved to salvage the trip.
Their determination wavered on day three when a startling revelation transformed the festival into a harrowing ordeal, leaving the trio stranded on the island with no way to escape.
I had no expectations when I picked up “The Island”, choosing it solely based on its cover and title. To my delight, it turned out to be one of those hidden gems that I thoroughly enjoyed.
“The Island” gripped me right from the start. I couldn't tear myself away and devoured it in just a few short hours. The eerie ambiance and suspense are crafted with such finesse, keeping you on edge throughout!
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Avon Books UK | Avon, and the author, Sarah Goodwin, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.
Rating:4/5
Release Date: 15 August 2024
Jody, Ari, and Carla were ecstatic when they snagged golden tickets to the summer's most hyped music festival, boasting glamour, mystery, and a plethora of freebies. However, their excitement soon turned to dismay upon arriving at a secluded Greek island, surrounded by influencers and celebrities, only to find the festival site lacking the promised allure of music, art, and immersive experiences. Despite their disappointment, they resolved to salvage the trip.
Their determination wavered on day three when a startling revelation transformed the festival into a harrowing ordeal, leaving the trio stranded on the island with no way to escape.
I had no expectations when I picked up “The Island”, choosing it solely based on its cover and title. To my delight, it turned out to be one of those hidden gems that I thoroughly enjoyed.
“The Island” gripped me right from the start. I couldn't tear myself away and devoured it in just a few short hours. The eerie ambiance and suspense are crafted with such finesse, keeping you on edge throughout!
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Avon Books UK | Avon, and the author, Sarah Goodwin, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.
May 30, 2024
Sarah Goodwin is one of those thriller writers who deserves every success. Her story Stranded remains one of my all time favourites, and this book The Island was also a really good read.
Jody, our protagonist, is hiding a lot of things, and battling anxiety and dysfunction as a result. After a bad breakup, she moves back in with her friends from university, Ari and Carla, but is unable to function normally. When her friends win tickets to a new music festival in Greece, Jody reluctantly joins them.
But the festival turns out to be an incredibly stressful experience for her - not least because she suspects that she has spotted her abusive boyfriend in the crowd. Is he stalking her?
And when a girl who looks very much like Jody goes goes missing, things starts to get even more frightening - to the point where Jody soon starts feeling unsure of whether she can trust anyone, including Ari and Carla...
Goodwin has delivered a suspenseful, exciting, atmospheric and entertaining read, that also manages to raise some underlying social issues - such as the pervasive nature of gender-based violence and exploitation. Well worth a read.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Jody, our protagonist, is hiding a lot of things, and battling anxiety and dysfunction as a result. After a bad breakup, she moves back in with her friends from university, Ari and Carla, but is unable to function normally. When her friends win tickets to a new music festival in Greece, Jody reluctantly joins them.
But the festival turns out to be an incredibly stressful experience for her - not least because she suspects that she has spotted her abusive boyfriend in the crowd. Is he stalking her?
And when a girl who looks very much like Jody goes goes missing, things starts to get even more frightening - to the point where Jody soon starts feeling unsure of whether she can trust anyone, including Ari and Carla...
Goodwin has delivered a suspenseful, exciting, atmospheric and entertaining read, that also manages to raise some underlying social issues - such as the pervasive nature of gender-based violence and exploitation. Well worth a read.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
June 23, 2024
I have read nearly every book by Sarah Goodwin. Everytime i am alerted of a new upcoming book i know i have to get my hands on it. Once again a great thriller read that will captivate and engross you in the reading process.
The Island follows Jodi who has moved in with her two flatmates Ari and Carla after her breakup with her abusive ex boyfriend. After winning tickets to an exclusive festival on a private greek island with promises of having the best summer. Jodi wants to stay at home where she knows she is safe but eventually embarks on the journey. The festival soon becomes clear all is not as it was described as but they try to make it still fun after all what could go wrong right?
The book starts off slow but quickly amps up the tension with twists and turns as we go alongside Jodi and learn about her past and trying to figure out who she can trust. This was a thrill entertaining read that has characters that you will root for and some not so much. The atmosphere was described in great detail, i was totally engrossed and enjoyed this book. Would definitely recommend
A big thank you to NetGalley, the publishers and Avon Books for the copy of this arc in exchange of my full honest review.
The Island follows Jodi who has moved in with her two flatmates Ari and Carla after her breakup with her abusive ex boyfriend. After winning tickets to an exclusive festival on a private greek island with promises of having the best summer. Jodi wants to stay at home where she knows she is safe but eventually embarks on the journey. The festival soon becomes clear all is not as it was described as but they try to make it still fun after all what could go wrong right?
The book starts off slow but quickly amps up the tension with twists and turns as we go alongside Jodi and learn about her past and trying to figure out who she can trust. This was a thrill entertaining read that has characters that you will root for and some not so much. The atmosphere was described in great detail, i was totally engrossed and enjoyed this book. Would definitely recommend
A big thank you to NetGalley, the publishers and Avon Books for the copy of this arc in exchange of my full honest review.
January 6, 2025
Girl Power!
At different times in our lives, we all fall victim to our own self-doubts. Unfortunately, outside forces - be it circumstance, bad timing or even other people and their baggage - can intensify a stumble into a full on crash and burn.
This was an entertaining story. It captured my attention and kept a solid pace throughout.
But what I found most interesting was what I like most about Sarah Goodwin's writing....it touches on deeper emotions and situations that many people face and endure as part of life. These situational events that she writes about are extreme - and that's what makes them a good read. But, she also leaves room in her story telling for you to take something away from it - something meaty and thought- provoking if you so choose to delve into it.
This story had some trigger warning - but these things are happening in our world and they do effect us. So, just maybe with some thought, we can be aware, not feel alone, find solace for our own struggles, grow stronger in accepting our personal shortcomings and have the strength to offer a helping hand to someone else.
This is how we can make the world a better place with small acts of kindness and compassion.
At different times in our lives, we all fall victim to our own self-doubts. Unfortunately, outside forces - be it circumstance, bad timing or even other people and their baggage - can intensify a stumble into a full on crash and burn.
This was an entertaining story. It captured my attention and kept a solid pace throughout.
But what I found most interesting was what I like most about Sarah Goodwin's writing....it touches on deeper emotions and situations that many people face and endure as part of life. These situational events that she writes about are extreme - and that's what makes them a good read. But, she also leaves room in her story telling for you to take something away from it - something meaty and thought- provoking if you so choose to delve into it.
This story had some trigger warning - but these things are happening in our world and they do effect us. So, just maybe with some thought, we can be aware, not feel alone, find solace for our own struggles, grow stronger in accepting our personal shortcomings and have the strength to offer a helping hand to someone else.
This is how we can make the world a better place with small acts of kindness and compassion.
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