Eynhallow by Tim McGregor
Raw Dog Screaming Press (February 2024)
178 pages; $17.19 paperback; $6.99 e-book
Reviewed by Chandra Claypool (Instagram) (TikTok)
Eynhallow is a beautiful gothic piece of horror literature taking place in the Orkney Islands way back in 1797. Our protagonist, Agnes, is a pleasure to get to know. She lives on a remote island and is in an abusive marriage, trying to get through the days and raise her kids the best that she can. Then one day a stranger comes and occupies a house that really is uninhabitable and here our story truly begins.
I went into this book with zero knowledge of what it was about. I just had scores of readers tell me this is a must read and they were all a thousand percent right. We get to follow along with Agnes and through her eyes, see what is happening within the small island. While a small population, even then she is somewhat ostracized so her circle is even smaller than you would imagine. McGregor gives us a gorgeous ambiance as the story turns ever so methodically as this stranger comes into play. This is one story you will not want to miss and my heart goes out to Agnes still.
If you’re looking for an amazing retelling of Frankenstein then look no further. Eynhallow is atmospherically gorgeous with beautiful prose that dances off the pages. This is perfect for those who love historical fiction mixed with horror that delves into monsters, isolation and curiosities that kill more than just the cat. Do yourself a favor and add this to your bookshelf and read it as soon as possible.
5 stars!
