Hemlock Island is a very suspenseful horror novel that moves at a fast pace. I was kept on my toes the entire time and second guessing what was going on.  The characters checking in with each helped me keep peace of mind.  The creep factor is definitely throughout the story without it being super gorey.  That said, you still get that.  I like you also get comedy also.  I do think there are some unrealistic elements in the miscommunications between friends and the resolution in the end.  I just think there could have been a better way to handle it.  Including the whole thing with Garrett.  It seemed like an excuse to add in a serious poignant subject.  However I did enjoy the story.  I will think twice about renting an airBNB on a remote island.