Welcome to my review of The Hunger by Alma Katsu!
Summary
Evil is invisible, and it is everywhere. Tamsen Donner must be a witch. That is the only way to explain the series of misfortunes that have plagued the wagon train known as the Donner Party. Depleted rations, bitter quarrels, and the mysterious death of a little boy have driven the pioneers to the brink of madness. They cannot escape the feeling that someone–or something–is stalking them.
Whether it was a curse from the beautiful Tamsen, the choice to follow a disastrous experimental route West, or just plain bad luck–the 90 men, women, and children of the Donner Party are at the brink of one of the deadliest and most disastrous western adventures in American history. While the ill-fated group struggles to survive in the treacherous mountain conditions–searing heat that turns the sand into bubbling stew; snows that freeze the oxen where they stand–evil begins to grow around them, and within them.
As members of the party begin to disappear, they must ask themselves “What if there is something waiting in the mountains? Something disturbing and diseased…and very hungry?” (This review is from Goodreads.)
Review
If you’re looking for a quick recommendation, yes, I would definitely recommend this book!
If you’re looking for a different take on the already creepy and true story of the Donner party, look no further than The Hunger. Katsu has a wonderful imagination and an amazing ability to bring history to life. Well, parts of history. Keep in mind, this is definitely not for the faint of heart. If you don’t like body horror, I wouldn’t recommend this book. Although it isn’t the goriest book I’ve read, it’s still pretty gory. And there is one scene near the beginning that stuck with me.
But it’s a great book to get the imagination working. It’s difficult not to read it and constantly wonder what’s stalking the Donner party? Turning everyone slowly crazy? It’s hard not to let your mind race with the possibilities. Which is why it was difficult to put it down. The only reason I gave it four stars is because it was a little confusing at times.
I’m not sure if it was my need to skim during the more intense, scary parts, or if it was the writing. But I was definitely confused at times and found myself going back over parts. Which took me out of the story and the experience. Overall, I would recommend this book to a busy mom. But only if you don’t mind body horror. It’s sure to keep you up at night, turning the pages!
Rating
Four out of five stars
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If you enjoyed my review of The Hunger by Alma Katsu, you might also like The Anomaly by Michael Rutger. Check out my review!
If you’re interested in purchasing The Hunger, here are some quick links to buy the book on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. And, if you’re interested to see what others think, here’s the link to the book on Goodreads.
