Helpful Score: 17
Abandon all expectations ye who enter here!!!
Is there a book that you possibly read 10, 15, maybe 20 years ago that is still ingrained in your memory today? When you think about the book, perhaps you won't be able to recall passages from the book; what most stands out in your memory is THE ENDING?
I picked up this book after reading the inside front pages that contained praises from renown sources. I mean, after all, would you read a book that got 5 stars from the Ridgemont High School Monthly, or some similar obscure media source? Neither would I. But this book had reputable names, and they all spoke about the ending. So I took the bait and began reading.
I was not disappointed; on the contrary, I was deeply affected by this book. I can honestly say, this book will still be a vivid memory 20 years from now, when I am recalling great books I have read. Yes, its that good.
The book begins with two federal marshals investigating the disappearance of a violent criminal from a high security hospital located on a remote island. To say any more about the plot would be to ruin the surprise that awaits the uninitiated.
I can say this: as the story progresses, the author throws in such a wicked twist and pulls out the rug from under you that you will be tempted to reread the entire book. Trying to guess what all the hype and acclaim is about is futile. Surrender yourself to this book and enjoy the ride.
Is there a book that you possibly read 10, 15, maybe 20 years ago that is still ingrained in your memory today? When you think about the book, perhaps you won't be able to recall passages from the book; what most stands out in your memory is THE ENDING?
I picked up this book after reading the inside front pages that contained praises from renown sources. I mean, after all, would you read a book that got 5 stars from the Ridgemont High School Monthly, or some similar obscure media source? Neither would I. But this book had reputable names, and they all spoke about the ending. So I took the bait and began reading.
I was not disappointed; on the contrary, I was deeply affected by this book. I can honestly say, this book will still be a vivid memory 20 years from now, when I am recalling great books I have read. Yes, its that good.
The book begins with two federal marshals investigating the disappearance of a violent criminal from a high security hospital located on a remote island. To say any more about the plot would be to ruin the surprise that awaits the uninitiated.
I can say this: as the story progresses, the author throws in such a wicked twist and pulls out the rug from under you that you will be tempted to reread the entire book. Trying to guess what all the hype and acclaim is about is futile. Surrender yourself to this book and enjoy the ride.
Helpful Score: 7
I absolutely loved this book! It keeps you guessing right to the end. It is a real page turner and you will not want to put the book down until you finish it!! I highly recommend it!!
Helpful Score: 5
"Insane men deny they are insane".
Great book, it took me a couple of tries to get into it. I have never read this author before, but once i was hooked, i couldn't put it down. It's a puzzle that when you think you have it solved, it adds more pieces. I don't want to give anything away, but nothing is what it seems in this book. And i hope the movie does it justice.
www.texasreader-stacy.blogspot.com
Great book, it took me a couple of tries to get into it. I have never read this author before, but once i was hooked, i couldn't put it down. It's a puzzle that when you think you have it solved, it adds more pieces. I don't want to give anything away, but nothing is what it seems in this book. And i hope the movie does it justice.
www.texasreader-stacy.blogspot.com
Helpful Score: 5
This is my first Lehane book. I have seen Mystic River and Gone Baby Gone and loved them both. Being from Boston, I enjoy reading and watching the work of fellow natives. Wow!! This book was great! I actually had to re-read the last two chapters!!! Just like Lehane to knock your socks off with a wrenching twist in the end!!! CANNOT wait for the movie due out in February '10!
Helpful Score: 3
A brilliant novel, in my opinion. After the success of 'Mystic River', I think a lot of people disregarded this novel as pop fiction. I'd just call it a hell of a read.
Helpful Score: 3
As much of a Lehane fan as I am, this is not my favorite book -- I thought it was too predictable.
Helpful Score: 2
From Dennis Lehane comes an unusual and disturbing story, more of a psychological thriller than Lehane's typical mysteries. Shutter Island is the story of U.S. Marshall Teddy Daniels and his new partner, Chuck. The two are sent to a maximum security asylum for the most violent patients on a remote island to recapture a missing patient. As it becomes clear that the patient could not have escaped without inside help, and no one on the island will give a straight answer, the mystery is far more complicated than either expected.
When Chuck disappears and Daniels begins to uncover secrets darker than anything he imagined, it seems that the two may never leave the island- and may never have been meant to.
Lehane weaves plot, character and atmosphere together seamlessly. He creates the spooky, isolated atmosphere of the island so well you can see it when you close your eyes. The lead characters are sympathetic and engaging, the supplementary ones shifty and mysterious. And the plot is peppered with the kind of clues that you see only in retrospect. Conversations and events that you never thought would be significant become glaringly obvious and reasonable once all the mystery is revealed. And the mystery itself is haunting, unsettling and unforgettable.
When Chuck disappears and Daniels begins to uncover secrets darker than anything he imagined, it seems that the two may never leave the island- and may never have been meant to.
Lehane weaves plot, character and atmosphere together seamlessly. He creates the spooky, isolated atmosphere of the island so well you can see it when you close your eyes. The lead characters are sympathetic and engaging, the supplementary ones shifty and mysterious. And the plot is peppered with the kind of clues that you see only in retrospect. Conversations and events that you never thought would be significant become glaringly obvious and reasonable once all the mystery is revealed. And the mystery itself is haunting, unsettling and unforgettable.
Helpful Score: 2
What a ride this thriller provides: more twists than a vertical coaster! Fast pace, complex characters, and images that haunt you long after you've finished reading: I can highly recommend this one.
Helpful Score: 2
Fear, obsession, paranoia...Dennis Lehane's "Shutter Island" is the stuff nightmares are made of. It is noir psychological suspense at its finest.
An isolated island, a raging hurricane, a locked room, secret codes, a mental hospital, rumors of mysterious medical experiments frame the story.
An isolated island, a raging hurricane, a locked room, secret codes, a mental hospital, rumors of mysterious medical experiments frame the story.
Helpful Score: 2
This book was so much fun to read. All kinds of twists and turns, you didn't know who or what to believe! A quick read.
Helpful Score: 2
One of my most favorite books of all time. This book will blow you away. I don't want to give anything away but I will say it's murder investigation that starts at a prison on Shutter Island. You won't be able to stop reading so save it for a rainy Sunday or something. It is great!
Helpful Score: 2
This is a good story, well done, but having read the reviews I was a little disappointed. After all the talk about the twist, I guess I was looking for it and I could see where it was going (if not the specifics of how it would arrive there) early on. But if you picked it up knowing nothing, it is a very intense story and still a pretty riveting read.
Helpful Score: 1
Maybe I've read too many books with twists and turns, but this one wasn't surprising to me at all. I think the author telegraphed what he's going to do within the first 100 pages, I just waited for it to show up. Nice writing though, very atmospheric.
Helpful Score: 1
Great book! I kept trying to figure it out all the way through, and every time I thought that I had, there was another twist. This was my first book by this author, and I'll definitely be looking for more!
Helpful Score: 1
With the film approaching, I was interested in reading the book. This book is so visual! I found it difficult to put down, because of the many OMG moments that would occur. I was truly enthralled by the tale. From the scenes that I've seen in the trailer, it looks like the director lifted dialog straight from the book. That's a good thing, because of the witty remarks made by one particular character. These remarks helped lighted the mood of the story. Comic relief helps relieve the tension that builds. And.....the tension does build.
This book is a satisfying, scary read.
This book is a satisfying, scary read.
Helpful Score: 1
While this book started off a little slow, it really picked up steam and became a page turner about a quarter of the way through. I really enjoyed this book, and would highly recommend it!
Helpful Score: 1
A suspenseful thriller with mind-bending twists. The madness and deception is like a bad nightmare!!
Helpful Score: 1
A period piece of the 50's with quite a twist at the end.
Helpful Score: 1
While I'm not sure I think it rates the pages and pages of acclaim that were at the front of my copy or the most glowing of reviews already posted here, I did enjoy this book -- the first by Lehane that I have read. It was a well-crafted and compelling read -- I kept coming back to it eagerly whenever I had reading time during a few very busy days, and that in itself says a lot.
I do feel that when it comes to end-of-the-story developments there is sometimes a fine line between an effective twist and a cheap trick, and, to me, this story skated a little much in the direction of the latter -- but all-in-all, Lehane pulls it off and wraps up an exciting and satisfying read.
I do feel that when it comes to end-of-the-story developments there is sometimes a fine line between an effective twist and a cheap trick, and, to me, this story skated a little much in the direction of the latter -- but all-in-all, Lehane pulls it off and wraps up an exciting and satisfying read.
Helpful Score: 1
Definitely one of my favorite Dennis Lahane books. I couldn't put it down!!
Helpful Score: 1
This suspenseful and finely written novel by Lehane is definitely a page turner with all sorts of plot twists and an unforgettable ending that seems almost dream like.
Nice to read something where the resolution is entirely unpredictable.
Excellent creepy storyline. I definitely encourage you to read it even if you don't like scary stories. I didn' want to see movie but I'm glad I read the book.
This book was excellent! Held my interest through the whole book and definitely kept me guessing. You wont see the ending coming, but after you read it, you will think you should have. Highly recommend
This book has soooo many twists and turns right from the begining that it leaves you wanting to *help* solve the crime, and is full of suspense, so much so that I couldn't put it down and read it in one sitting--the ending SHOCKED me like no other book ever has---and it WILL shock you too. A great author and an even GREATER story!
One of the best "twist" endings in quite a while!
I think what I liked most about the book is it takes place a few decades back, which makes all the surprises in the novel stand out even more. I can't explain more without giving too much away!
I think what I liked most about the book is it takes place a few decades back, which makes all the surprises in the novel stand out even more. I can't explain more without giving too much away!
One of the best mysteries I've ever read. You're sucked in at the beginning and not until the final pages do you realize you've been totally fooled. An excellent read!
an excellent mystery book that will stay with you long after you finish reading it. A noir tale that veers into some horrifying moments. A locked-door mystery to boot. I can't imagine the movie topping this one. Highly recommended.
With this book, you either love it or hate it. I prefer the Patrick & Angie books myself.
I usually don't read mystery/psychological thriller type books because I almost always figure out whats going ahead of time. This book was an exception for me. It kept me guessing until the end and I was engrossed in it! I finished reading it in two days (which isn't unusual for me--but the funny thing is, I really wanted to finish it in one. I made myself stop 2/3 of the way through it. I try to read one chapter a night, but this book wouldn't allow me to do that. Excellent writing, suspenseful and perfectly mapped out by the author. A MUST read!
I enjoyed this book quite a bit! It was well-written, with great characters (judging from the preview, I think that the movie has been well-cast). The plot held unpredictable twists and turns, but the ending was not quite what I was hoping for... I didn't hate it, but I didn't love it. Still, the book, overall, was a great read with a real atmosphere.
I read this book a while ago and enjoyed it immensely. Since learning that it is being made into a movie with Leonardo Dicaprio I decided to revisit the book and enjoyed reading it just as much even though I knew the outcome.
Dennis Lehane is a marvelous writer, and he has written a fascinating thriller, one that begs the reader to continue till the final page. In 1954, a convicted murderer who is lodged in a hospital for the criminally insane, escapes. Two US Marshalls are sent to "Shutter Island" to search and apprehend the patient who must be hidden on the grounds. The story includes plot twists, intriguing characters and Victorian architecture, and a storm reminiscent of "Key Largo." The story, to paraphrase Winston Churchill, "...is a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma...." I recommend this book to readers who love really well-crafted books regardless of genre.
After hearing about the movie being filmed down the street from me, I thought I would get Shutter Island and read it before I saw the movie (because I truly believe movies cannot capture all the details of the book).
When I started reading it, I literally could not put this book down, read it in 24 hours. After reading Mystic River I knew that there must be a twist involved and was looking for it as I was reading. Needless to say I was completely blown away at the end (just as I was with Mystic River). The story and writing is amazing and as another reviewer mentioned about wanting to reread it, I think I just might if only to look at everything from a different perspective. Definitely 5 stars and very highly recommended to anyone who was a fan of Mystic River. Just be prepared to want to finish it in 1 sitting.
When I started reading it, I literally could not put this book down, read it in 24 hours. After reading Mystic River I knew that there must be a twist involved and was looking for it as I was reading. Needless to say I was completely blown away at the end (just as I was with Mystic River). The story and writing is amazing and as another reviewer mentioned about wanting to reread it, I think I just might if only to look at everything from a different perspective. Definitely 5 stars and very highly recommended to anyone who was a fan of Mystic River. Just be prepared to want to finish it in 1 sitting.
Shutter Island is a well written thriller with a good combination of mystery, creepiness, puzzles, and plot twists. It started slow, and gradually picked up steam. About half way through I was so hooked I couldn't put it down (I actually had a notepad to work on the puzzles but I guess I'm probably just a dork). The ending is fairly successful(and somewhat inevitable) but not entirely satisfying to me. Overall, I find the Kenzie/Gennaro series to be a considerably more satisfying read.
A good thriller that keeps you guessing with plot twists and turns.
This book is very atmospheric and contains some dark characters and an abundance of twists and turns.
WOW!! This book is absolutely fantastic!
I had no idea what the book was about when I picked it up - only that it had been made into a movie. So a few days ago, I had started and put down two other books, and then picked this one up. I didn't have high hopes, because I just was in a reading funk - and it grabbed me right away! I didn't get much reading done yesterday, but today, I just kept on going until I finished it.
In a nutshell- Teddy, a U.S. Marshall, lands on Shutter Island to help track down a patient who has escaped from the hospital there - a hospital for the criminally insane. He and his partner quickly realize that they are being lied to at every turn, and are determined to solve the mystery of the hospital, as well as the missing woman. At the same time, Teddy must also face some demons of his own past.
Lots of intrigue, a great mystery, and fascinating characters and setting - this book is a gripping page-turner.
I had no idea what the book was about when I picked it up - only that it had been made into a movie. So a few days ago, I had started and put down two other books, and then picked this one up. I didn't have high hopes, because I just was in a reading funk - and it grabbed me right away! I didn't get much reading done yesterday, but today, I just kept on going until I finished it.
In a nutshell- Teddy, a U.S. Marshall, lands on Shutter Island to help track down a patient who has escaped from the hospital there - a hospital for the criminally insane. He and his partner quickly realize that they are being lied to at every turn, and are determined to solve the mystery of the hospital, as well as the missing woman. At the same time, Teddy must also face some demons of his own past.
Lots of intrigue, a great mystery, and fascinating characters and setting - this book is a gripping page-turner.
Loved this book! Great plot line, and the story sucks you in.
I'd heard so much about this book, just had to read it. I agree that it was interesting, the forensic psychiatry etc, though not enough of that for my taste. (Not a criticism, just a comment on what I would have liked.) Well-plotted, a nice twist, that I'm sure some really astute folks would have picked up on as the clues were there. Author did a nice job. I think if I hadn't heard so much hype about it, the great ending, I wouldn't have been disappointed like I was. But worth a read if you like mysteries.
This is a wonderfully-written genre novel about the investigation of the disappearance of a criminally-insane woman from a mental hospital in the 1950s. Set on the fictional, but mysterious and chilling, Shutter Island, the novel explores the many secrets the island holds while Deputy Marshalls Teddy Daniels and Chuck Aule try to track Rachel Solando, the missing patient, down. What they slowly discover during their trek concerns experimental surgery and other unethical, unspeakable practices, but the characters are what truly drive the plot, more-so than the action itself. As a reader, one will find oneself digging through the clues and racing against time with the characters to try and solve the mystery before the end. The book grabs you and refuses to let you go until it's messed with your head in unforgettably shocking, and definitely chill-inducing, ways. Highly recommended, as is the splendid film version released in early 2010!
Thought this book was a real page turner. The story flew by and left you wondering what will happen next. However, that was until you got to the last couple of chapters of the book and then I was confused as to what was happening. I think I've got it all figured out now, but I really was not satisfied with the ending. I picked up this book in anticipation of the movie release in Feb. I'm interested in how they interpret the ending.
What a great book! Stay alert and on your toes while reading this book. Nothing is as it appears and you will find yourself flipping back pages to see if you missed something. Not a good bedtime book because it is impossible to put down about halfway through. You will love it.
A non-stop, thrilling ride of a story about US Marshals Teddy & Chuck who are sent to Shutter Island, a mental health facility for violent offenders. The Marshals are called in to investigate the mysterious disappearance of a female prisoner and are swept up in a chilling tale of deception, murder, retribution, and grief. I have read a lot of thrillers, but this one is by far the best I've read. There are so many twists and turns that will keep you guessing and up late at night reading this masterpiece!
Definitely a great summer read -- this book was hard to put down and left me mulling over the plot for many nights after reading it. Anyone who enjoys a great mystery or suspense would enjoy this book for sure. I haven't seen the film version yet, but I'm looking forward to seeing it now that I've read the novel. (Of course the books are always better than the film versions, in my opinion!)
I enjoyed this book, and would recomend it. I bought it, and two days later was finished. It really pulled me in. I was allways on the edge of my seat. It is definatly a phycheologic thriller. It got me thinking and very involved into solving this mystery. The only downside was, I think it should have been longer! It was a bit to fast paced, also the ending was good, but it could have been better. It was definatly worth a read and I enjoyed it so much!
I went into this without having read any of the reviews, and had no lofty expectations as I had never read any of D.Lehane's work,though I did see(& enjoy)the Mytic River movie. What a pleasant surprise this was! Definitely a page-turner with well defined characters & plot twists galore. Best read in awhile. Five stars
Absolutely fabuous book, total roller coaster ride. Very real and believable characters.
Great book! Suspenseful and exciting. I was blown away by the ending!
Excellent writing, tight plot, good background. I am definitely seeing the movie. Lehane is best when read, though. No movie can capture his details.
This was an interesting tale from Dennis Lehane. I was only familiar with Mystic River and Gone Baby Gone as films. This was his first novel that I read. I picked it up for $1 at a used book store. I could not put it down. The story is compelling and twisted. I cannot wait to see what DiCaprio and Scorsese can do with this source material.
Really mysterious - setting, characters, events - and an ending that you can't see coming!
I've read a lot of books and love books with lots of twists. The best ones are those that you don't see coming. Some authors are great at it; others... well you can figure out the twist just by the way they write. But this mind-blowing twist was so unexpected that I read the rest of the book with my jaw dropped. Great book; incredible character development. A must-read!
Shutter Island ... home of Ashecliff Hospital for the Criminally Insane. No one is going to escape Shutter Island unscathed ...because nothing at Ashecliff Hospital is what it seems.
Fabulous book! An interesting and unique story. Gripping. A definite page-turner.
Very exciting and thrilling book.
A real page-turning, taut pychological thriller that keeps you engrossed the whole way through. I would highly recommend it. I hope the movie is half as good.
Great book not so much horror more of a mystery.Keeps twisting in all of the right spots and the end will blow you away.
This is an awesome book. The ending is a big surprise and I recommend reading it. Will not let you down.
This book is good, but I just had to stop half way through it...it just creeped me out too much. Maybe you will get into it more than I did.
The story is intriguing,the action is bountiful and the end is quite a surprise. It's not as unputdownable as Gone Baby Gone,which I read in about three days, this took me somewhat longer to get into it but I like the characters and red herrings. The setting of the Criminal Asylum in the 50's didn't hurt either, in the end a pretty satisfying read.
Kept me interested from the start and has some nice twists.
Saw the movie first which was good. The book follows the story line with NO surprises or twists. If I hadn't seen the movie I'm sure I would have enjoyed the book more.
US Marshall Teddy Daniels has come to Shutter Island to investigate an escaped murderess from the Ashcliffe Hospital for the Criminally Insane. As the investigation deepens, so does the mystery. The closer Teddy and his partner get to the truth, the more they begin to believe they will never leave Shutter Island. A psychological thriller that takes you on a wild ride. Great read!
I always like to try and figure out were the author is going with his story but I didn't see this one coming...... A very surprise ending with a good story that keeps your interest. A US marshall is sent to Shutter Island, home of a hospital for the Criminally insand, to investigate the disappearance of a patiend. Muliple murderess Rachel Solando is loose somewhere on this remote and barren island, despite having been kept in a locked cell under constant surveillance.
While this boook departs from his usual police procedural, Lehane proves himself a master in this genre as well -- and a master at recreating the ambience of the post-Cold War era. Lehane's (relatively young)ear for dialogue puts me in mind of another master, Elmore Leonard, which -- given the age difference -- suggests that in years to come Lehane may surpass Leonard. Lehane's tight, economic style (a welcome change from authors who over-explain, thereby both insulting and annoying the reader) works particularly well in this book, keeping readers on their toes and expecting the unexpected. He even manages to use a somewhat trite device, a huge storm that conveniently strands everyone on the island, in a believable way. Another reviewer referred to "Shutter Island" as "un-put-downable," and I agree.
Avery quick paced and fascinating read. Lehane travels back in time to the early 1950s for this book, and it provides an interesting peek into the mindset of post ww2 vets as well as the treatment of mental health then, which was on the cusp of changing from lobotomies and locking people away, to pharmacology.
E twists and turns will keep you guessing until the last page, then thinking and guessing some more! Well worth a read.
E twists and turns will keep you guessing until the last page, then thinking and guessing some more! Well worth a read.
Great plot twists. Well drawn characters....couldn't put this book down. It's about 2 U.S. Marshalls assigned to find a missing inmate at "Shutter Island" which houses a hospital for the criminally insane. The Marshalls start suspecting some kind of plot involving psychosurgery as an experiment upon the inmates. Answers reveal themselves as the search goes on and the reader is left with as much as a mystery as the Marshalls themselves. The end result is a whopper! If looking for an excellent mystery/suspense thriller, this is it. I've never read Lehane before but he's now on my list of authors to read.
I never took so long to read a book. I had heard good reviews on it and having seen the movie Mystic River, I was sure I'd like one of his other books. It was difficult to get into and really had a hard time following it and then it just left you hanging at the end. Probably the least favorite book I've read in years.
This book reads very fast. It was a little slow getting started but the action was non stop after around 3 chapters. The story is in itself a paradox and at the end, the reader must decide what is really going on. While it isn't bloody and gory, some scenes are very intense and scarey. In comparison to other action novels, the profanity is minimal. After reading the book, I don't want to see the movie because I think it would be too much for me. I liked how the characters are drawn--enough to allow one come up with an image but not overly described. Information about the criminally insane made me want to google names to figure out how much was made up and how much was real. It also increased my curiosity as to how much human testing has been done on the mentally ill after WWII. I'm now reading one of Lehane's earlier books,"Mystic River." This one almost seems like a different writer because the style is so different. I do recommend Shutter Island.
This book is a great read and the ending is really different than most books of this genre. After having read the book, now I want to see the movie too. It's a book to remember.
I waited to watch the movie until after reading the book and I am glad that I did. The book was very well written and such a unique plot. This book was very hard to put down. The book was better than the movie. The only negatives, in my opinion, was the amount of language and one graphic sex scene. The book could have been better without these.
Interesting book. Strange book. But, I don't know.....
Now....this will sound like a rather strange suggestion, but I am going to say it anyway.
Read the last chapter first.
YES, that will spoil the surprise ending. And it certainly does have a surprise ending. But, if you are anything like me and the book "has to work" -by that I mean it HAS to have a plausible ending that "fits" with the story told up to that point, then, YES, read the last chapter first. Or, like me, you'll end up reading the entire book twice!
After I read the book the first time, I got to the last page and said. "WHAT?"
Despite, the "explanation" detailed by one of the main characters near the end of the book, I wasn't buying the ending. So....I went back and read the entire book again. I must have really missed something!
After the second reading, did I buy the ending any better? Well, maybe, but only a very little bit. The book has way too many convoluted twists and parts that just do not tie to the ultimate ending. And there are just too many things that happen in the book that don't work when considering the ending.
So read the last chater first and see if you think the book really does lead up to that ending.
Yes, the book is "good". But does it "work"? I'd have to say no.
I haven't seen the movie. I wonder if that "works" any better?
Now....this will sound like a rather strange suggestion, but I am going to say it anyway.
Read the last chapter first.
YES, that will spoil the surprise ending. And it certainly does have a surprise ending. But, if you are anything like me and the book "has to work" -by that I mean it HAS to have a plausible ending that "fits" with the story told up to that point, then, YES, read the last chapter first. Or, like me, you'll end up reading the entire book twice!
After I read the book the first time, I got to the last page and said. "WHAT?"
Despite, the "explanation" detailed by one of the main characters near the end of the book, I wasn't buying the ending. So....I went back and read the entire book again. I must have really missed something!
After the second reading, did I buy the ending any better? Well, maybe, but only a very little bit. The book has way too many convoluted twists and parts that just do not tie to the ultimate ending. And there are just too many things that happen in the book that don't work when considering the ending.
So read the last chater first and see if you think the book really does lead up to that ending.
Yes, the book is "good". But does it "work"? I'd have to say no.
I haven't seen the movie. I wonder if that "works" any better?
Great book ...fast read that I could not put down!!!
An interesting read and concept-on that I rate Lehane five stars, but I felt I was deceived somewhat and that brings it down a little. It is not what I would say read again and I often read over and over but I did pass it on to my cousin to read. It is worth reading for a different kind of read. I cannot say more or give it away.
Didn't know this was a book before it was a movie! I really liked the movie so I HAD to read the book! I love the idea of the story and how it throws twists and turns at you, and with the foreshadowing I had a pretty good idea of what was REALLY happening in the book, what an amazing idea for a story! Also, I really like how the movie follows the book closely, I didn't feel lost reading it after watching the film. Well written story!
Even though I had already seen the movie based on this book, it was well written enough to keep me reading to the end. The main characters- Teddy Daniels and Chuck Aule, are two federal marshals sent on a mission to a facility for the criminally insane. The story unfolds around their trip to the island on which the facility is located and their search for a missing patient and the truth. There are many twists and turns in the story, all wonderfully described by Mr. Lehane and you find yourself guessing to the very end. Good read!!
I loved this book! The ending almost devastated me though. A bit melodramatic of me, but I grew to love the main character. I can't wait to watch the movie now! It's definitely unique in plot and kept me guessing until the end.
this book was far better than the movie i could not put it down read it in one day!
This wasn't what I expected! I enjoyed the story but the writing left a bit to be desired. I was hoping it'd be more 'thrilling'. I haven't seen the movie, but I would like to. FYI...there is quite a bit of swearing (which is appropriate for the characters).
The year is 1954. Two United States Marshals - Edward 'Teddy' Daniels and his partner Chuck Aule - have recently arrived on a remote island located in Boston Harbor. Shutter Island is the home of an extraordinary, groundbreaking medical facility - Ashecliffe Hospital For the Criminally Insane - an asylum which offers only the most modern psychiatric treatments for its patients. The marshals have come to investigate the mysterious disappearance of one of Ashecliffe's most notorious patients - a severely mentally disturbed woman who has been accused of drowning her three young children.
Rachel Solando has been incarcerated for several years, yet she has somehow managed to escape from a locked and guarded cell. Despite keeping her under constant surveillance, the doctors are baffled by Rachel's sudden and inexplicable disappearance, and they are alarmed by the knowledge that a multiple murderess is now loose somewhere on the barren island. As a deadly hurricane bears down relentlessly on the island, Teddy and Chuck find themselves in the middle of one of the most bizarre cases of their careers.
Actually, everything about Ashecliffe Hospital seems bizarre. Hints of radical experimentation and covert government machinations have begun to taint the stellar reputation of Ashecliffe, adding darker, more sinister shades to an already peculiar case. Because the closer Teddy and Chuck come to the truth, the more they realize that nothing about Ashecliffe Hospital is remotely what it seems.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. In my opinion, it was a well-written, engrossing plot that kept me guessing right until the end. This was actually quite different from the typical story that I read, and I was intrigued to see how the story would eventually develop. I would certainly give this book an A+!
Rachel Solando has been incarcerated for several years, yet she has somehow managed to escape from a locked and guarded cell. Despite keeping her under constant surveillance, the doctors are baffled by Rachel's sudden and inexplicable disappearance, and they are alarmed by the knowledge that a multiple murderess is now loose somewhere on the barren island. As a deadly hurricane bears down relentlessly on the island, Teddy and Chuck find themselves in the middle of one of the most bizarre cases of their careers.
Actually, everything about Ashecliffe Hospital seems bizarre. Hints of radical experimentation and covert government machinations have begun to taint the stellar reputation of Ashecliffe, adding darker, more sinister shades to an already peculiar case. Because the closer Teddy and Chuck come to the truth, the more they realize that nothing about Ashecliffe Hospital is remotely what it seems.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. In my opinion, it was a well-written, engrossing plot that kept me guessing right until the end. This was actually quite different from the typical story that I read, and I was intrigued to see how the story would eventually develop. I would certainly give this book an A+!
The story was engagingly written, and yes, it took a left turn about 3/4 of the way through, but everything after that was pretty predictable. I don't care for stories that get me to invest in a character only to pull the rug out from under me near the end. It's maybe not a cheat, but it feels too much like sleight of hand. Blood and Circumstance by Frank Turner Hollen does something of the same thing, but he does it much better and without making me feel as though I've had a big joke played on me.
The book was good. I found it a little slow, but the twist at the end blew my mind!
I found this book to be somewhat disturbing in the final consensus. It was a good read and I did not want to put it down. Characters were quite interesting as well as the place of the novel. I would read more of Dennis Lehane novels. Very intriguing. This book was dark and had a great ending.
It had some nice twists and turns I did not see coming. It's nice not to know the ending 2 chapters in.
An island for the insane. A marshall must try to solve a murder. Plot twist at the end. Very good.
An excellent book! Our book club is still talking about the ending!
This story concerns a US Marshall and the mentally ill.The answers come in the last few pages.
I thought this book started a bit slow and wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy it. Boy was I wrong!! It really surprised me and I thoroughly enjoyed it! A friend turned me on to Lehane and I love his books. I was interested in reading Mystic River because I liked the movie but his other books are even better. This one is definitely my favorite so far.
I requested this book for my permanent library. I have read it in the past and thought it was an excellent thriller. I can't wait to see the movie. I give this book five stars.
Great story telling, from the same author of "Mystic River".
loved this book couldn't put it down
This is one great psychological roller coaster of twists and turns. This one messed with my mind! Excellent writing down to the tiniest detail. A fantastically twisted ride. I'm interested to see how the movie compares.
The year is l954. U. S. Marshal Teddy Daniels and his new partner, Chuck Aule, have come to Shutter Island, home of Ashecliffe Hospital for the criminally insane, to investigate the disappearance of a patient. Multiple murderess Rachel Solando is loose somewhere on this remote and barren island, despite having been kept in a locked cell under constant surveillance. As a killer hurricane bears relentlessly down on them, a strange case takes on even darker, more sinister shades--with hints of radical experimentation, horrifying surgeries, and lethal countermoves made in the cause of a covert shadow war. No one is going to escape Shutter Island unscathed, because nothing at Ashecliffe Hospital is what it seems. But neither is Teddy Daniels.
Its twists and turns will have you questioning all the assumptions you made at the beginning of the story.
This book was a crazy suspensful ride. I couldn't put it down. DOn't blink in the last 40 pages you will miss the big twist. Now to see the movie.
Very well written and quite the story ending. Enjoyed it.
fun psychological thriller. My son saw the movie and was very enthusiastic about it, so I got this book and am so glad I did, even though this isn't usually a genre I typically read.
Exciting psychological suspense. This is my first Dennis Lehane novel and I was not disappointed.
This was a great read. Lots of good plot turns and unexpected ending. I highly recommend!
I LOVED this book! It's creepy and paranoid and very atmospheric. I've recommended it to all my friends, most of whom read and loved it too. If you haven't read it and like dark thrillers, you are in for a real treat.
Yikes--who's crazy now!!! This was a mind twister and if you sit down to start this book take the dog out first cuz it is hard to put down. Kinda makes you look at people and wonder how sane your neighbor is. Ending was not seen coming--love that!! Would like to have dinner with this author. Great intense read.
Held my interest throughout. Well written with a surpise at the end but looking back possibly should have seen it coming. It did keep me guessing for a while. Worth reading and will probably read another of LeHane's books in future.
starts out to be a very good thriller and turns out to be a GREAT thiller that grabs you and takes you to a surprising and chilling ending.
Twist. Turns. 360's and backtracking, this book has it all and more. Totally engrossing from the start, story is alive, engaging and makes your root for the good guys or so you think. This is one that will stay with you for a long time, making you think and rethink what you know is real. The ending is mind blowing. Well done.
Couldn't put this book down. Put this one on your list of books to read. Looking forward to reading more of Dennis Lehane's books.
Loved this book! Part thriller, part mind-bender, this is what good books should be! It's a real page turner, and is a great ride.
Suspenseful
This book flew by. I was entertained, and read a good chunk while missing the scenery on a gorgeous drive to New Mexico. I love stories about asylums so this was perfect! But I have to admit that I was disappointed by the ending. At one point I looked up from the book and wondered where the heck it was going. Then a few pages later I found out and groaned. In theory it's a great ending but since I've seen this ending done before it seemed almost cliche.
Excellent book with great surprise ending!
Excellent read.
This book is very good with a suprising twist at the end!!
Great summer read!
All I can say about this book is "WOW!" A good mystery story with a wild plot twist. Don't let anyone spoil the ending for you! Different from Lehane's "Mystic River", but terrific in its own way.
Intriguing story of psych prison.
wierd story keep you wondering
Read by my husband who is new to novel reading, but like this book.
I ENJOYED READING THIS BOOK.
First edition.
D-4 G-7 O-15 O-15
D-4 A-1 R-18 E-5
D-4 A-1 R-18 E-5
