Review by SapphireKerry -- Waves Break (on Unknown Shores)

SapphireKerry · Post by **SapphireKerry** » 04 Apr 2020, 14:36

[Following is a volunteer review of "Waves Break (on Unknown Shores)" by Barry Litherland.]

4 out of 4 stars

Share This Review

In Waves Break (on unknown shores) by Barry Litherland, Phil and his questionable friend Wayne are caught up in trouble. Phil has always questioned their friendship, especially since they watched their friend die as children. Wayne reconnects with another of their childhood friends Tina, and the three of them get wrapped up in an investigation into a break-in, with Wayne being the accused. While searching for a missing file and trying to free Wayne, Phil gets visited by many disagreeable characters, including Wayne's brother, whom they have all feared since childhood. The past begins to repeat itself and they all wonder what will happen.

A central theme of this book is the effects of child abuse and living with the horror of watching your friend die in front of you. The storyline and the excellent writing makes you feel for Phil and Wayne throughout the book, as well as fearing for them. Each page gripped me and made me feel as if I was there with them, wondering what would happen next. These themes are brought up throughout the whole book, and make you feel hopeful and hopeless at the same time, wanting to help.

This story is one of suspense and leaves you wanting to know more with every page. Every time you believe part of the mystery is solved, another mystery appears. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I enjoyed wondering what would happen on the next page, which encouraged me to keep reading. This is why I give this book 4 out of 4 stars.

I easily got lost within the book. The book is from Phil’s perspective and flips between adulthood and childhood, hinting towards what happened in the past, and giving you time to question and wonder what happened until it all slots into place. The book was well edited with no mistakes and flows well. The book is written simply which fits in with the plot and is easy to read, as well as being fast-paced. The characters are written genuinely and realistically.

Due to the excellent writing and suspense-filled pages, I recommend this book to any crime loving readers. A more mature audience would be suited due to the themes of abuse and violence. There is a fair amount of profanity as well, but this is all done in good taste and fits in with the story, adding emphasis to what is happening.

******
Waves Break (on Unknown Shores)
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

Bigwig1973 · Post by **Bigwig1973** » 24 Apr 2021, 22:19

I thought the mystery aspect of the book was so interesting! You are right in saying that every time a mystery seems solved, another pops up! Most mysteries, or at least traditional ones as far as I know, start with a crime and then someone tries to solve it. Not this one. After I read it and realized that, I also realized that it didn't annoy me that it wasn't organized traditionally. I think it is a very cool book! Nice review!