Self-Preservation | AstraDaemon

On an isolated island in the Philippines, it patiently waits. A mysterious terror lurks in the shadows, stalking the poor stranded souls who visit the island. When a group of four tourists find their vacation quickly turning into a nightmare, the terror taunts them and comes for them one by one. The sandy beach and crystal waters of the lagoon will run red with blood if they can't find a way off this savage island.

SAVAGE ISLAND by Brian Moreland pleasantly surprised me with the multiple layers of horror at play: a slumber party gone wrong, marriage to an abuser, sexual exploitation, a shipwreck, and a brutal battle for survival. With one man's final journal entry alluding to the deadly force occupying the mysterious island, the author sets a frightening tone for this shocking thriller.

The main POV belongs to Amy, happy to be reunited with her best friend Jasmine, but readers are also offered glimpses into the thoughts and feelings of the other characters. The story fluctuates between a creature feature and psychologcial terror, with Ted providing a dark twist to the future of the island's inhabitants. The imagery is vivid and detailed, compelling me to read this novella in one sitting. Moreland's jungle nightmare would make a great movie, and I highly recommend this book.

As always,

AstraDaemon