I don’t think Skein Island has the most intriguing premise of Aliya Whiteley’s novels, but it’s the only one that was available from the library and as I was hesitant to buy her books without a feel for her writing, I chose to read it first. And I must say, I’m quite conflicted. I love the prose a lot, and the built up of tension and mystery in the beginning is masterfully executed. But it all falls flat after that. 

Maybe I should explain the story briefly. Skein Island is sort of a resort where women come for a week to reflect on their lives and write their declarations – stories of their lives. ”That’s the point of the island, right? These stories, sealed up, like a time capsule. A record of what it means to be a woman.” Marianne receives an invitation after being taken advantage of by a man, and while on the island, begins to discover its history, which lead us into the realm of Greek myths. 

Usually I adore weird books, but this just wasn’t my type of weird. In addition, the climax is underwhelming to say the least. But I did adore the writing, hence the conflicted feelings. I’ve heard that Whiteley’s stories are all quite different though, so that gives me hope that the others might be more to my liking.