This multiple POV thriller is a SUPER SLOW burn with a lot of setup that makes it sometimes feel like literary fiction instead of a thriller. The last 1/3 of the book seriously picks up the pace and all of the pieces suddenly come all tumbling together. If the pacing and tension of this section extended to the full length, this would have easily been a 5-star read.

The writing is good, with just enough description to paint a picture, but not being overly flowery. It is in line with the setting an the atmosphere surrounding the characters. It shifts in tone appropriately for each of the six POVs, five characters plus narrator.

The majority of the characters are unlikable, at least in the beginning. The bride particularly was a bit insufferable. This is intentional, but I still found myself not loving her chapters because I found her to be so spoiled and entitled. There is some redemption that comes along the way for one or two of the characters, which I found satisfying. On top of that, there are A LOT of dysfunctional relationships. However, all of the characters are all very distinct and have strong individual personalities.

The setting is good--dark and creepy--making things have a nice gothic feel. I'm a sucker for a great gothic novel. This atmosphere was used to its advantage on a few occasions, but I honestly wouldn't have minded even more exploration of the house or the island. I found it very intriguing.

Though it wasn't what I was expecting, I enjoyed my read and liked the ending quite a bit. I do worry that the slow setup could cause some readers to bail for lack of action.