The Sun Down Motel

If I had to describe this incredible whirlwind of a book in one word it would be intensely unsettling. I read most of it late at night, since that's when I have the most time to read after putting the kids to bed, and I was stressing and on edge the whole time, afraid something would jump out at me or break into the house. I have read other books that were suspenseful and really creepy in that way before to give me goosebumps but they paled in comparison. It was like a ghost story on crack and I absolutely loved it. I am only sad that it took me so long to finally get to this book because my TBR shelf is exploding at the moment. Only advise I have, try not to read it alone at night because even if you will get scared, you won't be able to stop reading this novel.

First of all, The Sun Down Motel is a story that follows dual timelines, that from the perspective of Viv, a woman who disappeared from her shift at the Sun Down Motel one night a long time ago, and the other one from the present day eyes of Carly- Viv's niece. Carly is determined to find out what happened to her aunt, no matter what, even if the motel and answers are a lot more than she bargained for. This plot was terrific and I loved that it had so many layers to it, just when I thought I had figured out one layer, I would realize that there are tons more where that came from. It was one of the most suspenseful novels I've ever read and the phrase “keeping you on the edge of your seat” really takes on a whole new level with this book and story. It's hard to put into words just how thrilling this book really is, read it for yourself to find out!

Secondly, the characterization was top notch. As I've mentioned in previous reviews of mine, I like complicated people doing messed up things for various dark and twisted reasons and this book delivered in that area like nothing else. We really got into the heads of the two main heroines of the story and even though they made a lot of questionable choices, it was hard not to like them because they were very relatable and bluntly put- human. No cookie cutter characters in this novel, no these people felt so real that it made my anxiety even worse because I was afraid right along with them as the novel unfolded.

Finally, the writing style is terrific. It's not overly simple with short sentences and overly simplistic vocabulary but it's also not too complicated to understand and follow along with the story either. I really grew to love St. James' writing style and will be diving into the other book I have by her very soon. She is definitely an auto-buy author for me now. And those dual timelines were really just masterfully done and it wasn't confusing whatsoever.

In conclusion, this book is a must read for all thriller lovers alike! It's hard for me to imagine someone not loving it since it delivered on such a high level for me and made me understand that I do love ghost stories, if they are done well. If you're looking for a thrilling rollercoaster of a novel that will keep your heart beating at an accelerated pace, this book is definitely for you. Highly recommend!