Review of The Last Ferry Out by Andrea Bartz
When I first spotted The Last Ferry Out by Andrea Bartz, I was immediately drawn in by its premise: a desperate quest for truth wrapped in the enigmatic allure of a remote island. Having recently navigated the choppy waters of loss myself, Abby’s journey felt like one I could connect with deeply. The story promises intrigue, mystery, and a backdrop of compelling natural beauty, making it the perfect summer read for lovers of travel thrillers.
At the heart of the narrative is Abby, whose world has been upended by the tragic death of her fiancée, Eszter. The circumstances of Eszter’s demise—a sudden allergic reaction on a solo trip to Isla Colel—plunge Abby into a sea of questions and guilt. Why did this happen? How could a woman who had always taken such caution be caught off guard? My heart ached for Abby as she set out for the island in search of closure, not yet aware of the tangled web she would find.
Once on Isla Colel, Abby’s perception of paradise quickly shifts as the island’s haunting remnants of a recent hurricane become apparent. The dwindling population of quirky expats adds a layer of mystery; their seemingly cult-like attachment to the island raised my eyebrows and kept the tension simmering. I found Abby to be an incredibly relatable protagonist—brimming with determination and vulnerability. Her straightforwardness made her journey feel intimate; I couldn’t help but root for her as she confronted the islanders, desperately seeking the truth about Eszter.
Bartz’s writing style is both engaging and atmospheric. The descriptions of the island felt vivid and alive, pulling me right into Abby’s experience. At times, the narrative lulled slightly, leaving me craving a bit more momentum in the middle. However, the story quickly bounced back, culminating in a series of twists that left me breathless. Just when I thought I had a handle on the unfolding mysteries, another revelation would change everything—a hallmark of a great thriller.
I particularly enjoyed the interwoven perspectives, especially those from Eszter’s point of view. Her complexity as a character added depth to the story, making me rethink my assumptions. It was an enticing puzzle, as Eszter’s feelings and motives seemed layered and complicated—a stark contrast to Abby’s relentless pursuit for clarity. As the pages turned, I could feel the tension heightening, a storm brewing both in the literal and metaphorical sense.
The way the author utilized weather as a narrative device to heighten suspense was fantastic. Just when Abby thinks she might escape, nature’s fury draws her further into the island’s grip, reflecting her internal turmoil. This clever use of elements added an emotional punch that resonated with me deeply.
In conclusion, The Last Ferry Out is a captivating travel thriller that masterfully blends loss, mystery, and the raw beauty of an island setting. I walked away not just entertained but also reflective about the complexities of love and the depths we’ll go to find answers. If you enjoy stories rich in atmosphere, intriguing character dynamics, and suspenseful plots, then this book should definitely find a place on your TBR list. Whether you’re lounging by the beach or chilling at home, this read is bound to keep you guessing as the waves of truth crash around Abby—and perhaps even inspire some self-reflection along the way.
A heartfelt thanks to Ballantine Books for providing me a copy to read and review. Can’t wait to explore more from Andrea Bartz!
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