This was a wonderful and powerful story. The author did an incredible job tackling all kinds of issues, from abusive relationships, grief and tragedy, addiction, and isolation.
Synopsis
Sonny Bates left South Carolina fifteen years ago and never looked back. Now she’s a successful Hollywood location scout who travels the world, finding perfect places for movie shoots. Home is wherever she lands, and between her busy schedule and dealing with her boss’s demands, she has little time to think about the past…until her latest gig lands her a stone’s throw from everything she left behind. Searching off the coast of Charleston for a scheduled site to film a key scene, Sonny wanders onto a private barrier island and encounters its reclusive owner, known by locals as the Monster of Indigo Isle. What she finds is a man more complex than the myth.
First Impression 3.5/5
The beginning was a bit slow as things were fleshed out, like the main character, Sonny’s, current stage of life, her job, and her lack of faith. I wondered when Sonny would finally meet this so-called recluse. But I couldn’t put the book down once things began to pick up! I also enjoyed Sonny’s job as a location scout and seeing all the details behind the scenes of movies and shows.
Character Development 4/5
Hudson and Sonny are characters you can’t help falling in love with as they battle their broken pasts and passion for each other. They both transformed as individuals, aided by their love for one another. We see them tackle that which they once bowed down to–whether isolation, fear, worldly pleasures, or lies of their lack of worth. Like the Prodigal Son, Indigo Isle takes you on a journey through the lives of Hudson and Sonny, where they step from brokenness and desperation into freedom.
World-Building 5/5
Having been to Charleston myself, it was fun to take a trip back through this book. Lowe is a wondrous painter of worlds, crafting a vibrant isle full of purples, reds, and splashes of light. Not only do we see the beauty of South Carolina, but Lowe weaves the promise of hope in God between the shattered scars of our main characters.
Emotions 4/5
Concerning the heavier topics discussed in Indigo Isle, tears were shed, and my heart was set on fire with frustration and grief. As Sonny and Hudson navigated through the rising waters of their own faults and shortcomings, there were many opportunities where joy took flight, as well as emotional turmoil when they fell.
Style 4/5
The story flowed like prose, and Lowe’s writing made reading effortless. Though the pace was stagnant at times, an underlying glimpse of hope and anticipation kept me reading and wanting to see the characters reconciled to God. I loved the incorporation of Scripture. Many books claiming to be Christian don’t always exude that, but the literal verses and storyline similar to The Prodigal Son were refreshing and beautiful. However, it did seem at times the characters were more praised and exalted than God.
Cleanliness 2.5/5
Now this is where things become a bit tricky.
With Sonny trapped in a toxic relationship, we see depictions of sexual abuse/assault. Though the scenes and past implications were vague and brief, they were still very much there and heartbreaking. Some scenes regarding sex and assault were too detailed and drawn out for me, leaving unwanted imagery in my mind. I found unnecessary sentences that were uncomfortable and too graphic. I understand the story represents a modern depiction of The Prodigal Son, and of course, the subjects handled would provide an arduous journey. But I thought the sexual content could’ve been avoided while still keeping true to the story’s moral. It’s one thing to mention sexual immorality or abuse, and a whole other thing to vividly craft a sex scene with the abusive partner in question, where the main character is drugged and we read her thoughts on what it felt like and how long it lasted. Again, I understand this is a common issue in today’s world, and it breaks my heart to know how little some people care about themselves and their bodies, or how often women are taken advantage of. But if an author claims their book is Christian, I believe some lines shouldn’t be crossed.
It wasn’t until days after I finished Indigo Isle that I remembered that scene and the unsettled weight in my stomach. This wasn’t even the only instance, just the most graphic. The details may have been somewhat subtle (it didn’t go into every single detail of the sexual act), but they were enough to paint an unwanted image. The reason, I’m sure, is that Lowe was depicting how lost and broken Sonny was. But, as someone who has struggled with their thoughts, this scene nearly turned me off to reading the book. I try to steer clear of all explicit content, including sex scenes–even ones involving an abusive relationship.
If these things are going to be included, then a trigger warning page should be available for people before they read. Also, I recognize that I’m more sensitive to some scenes and details than others. This review is based on personal convictions and observations.
Conclusion 5/5
Despite the above, Indigo Isle was impactful and kept me reading, emphasizing how no one is ever too far gone for God to save. Redemption, forgiveness, and worth are words I’d use to describe Indigo Isle! The ending was satisfying and all I hoped for, sharing the impact of turning back to Christ and showcasing the wonders of His love.
Final Rating: 3.5/5 stars
Recommended Age: 18+
Genres: fiction, romance, Christian, adult
TRIGGER WARNINGS
sexual assault, sexual abuse, abuse, addiction, grief, death
“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.” Luke 15:20b
Julia Rose Books 