Sirk TV Book Review: BLACK ROCK BAY [Thomas & Mercer]

The intention of psychological manipulation and texture depends on the people that are playing a game. Doing it on a well-to-do island where everyone knows everyone is a tricky procedure. While the set up and progression of most of its narrative seems to work, “Black Rock Bay” [Brianna Labuskes/Thomas & Mercer/363pgs] falters in the final pages simply because the viciousness and smartness of the antagonist is not realized or as satisfying as it should be. The book begins with Mia and Izzy, two detectives from Maine, going out to a secluded border island that is both a haven for the rich but also a home to locals. Mia left after she was a teenager because of her supposed role in the killings of her best friends. No one knows what really happened but the prologue speaks to altered perspective which may or may not be correct. Returning to the island is a contradiction in terms for Mia. No one really wants to say anything but they also want to protect their own. 2 of Mia's friends: Asher and Monroe become pawns unwittingly as does Cash, one of Mia's former loves. The book works best when it mixes in elements of misdirection. However the details, however distinct become a little misshapen. The actual settings is quite interesting and the elements of storms and lighthouses definitely bring a distinct flavor to the proceedings. Ultimately, the book is a story of betrayals between family, blood and beyond. But the resolute mechanics that the book spins even in regards to the character Lacey never feels undeniably formed. It feels like a distinct movie of the week, perhaps a Lifetime movie, a fun enough guilty pleasure but one that doesn't elevate itself beyond its primary goals. C

By Tim Wassberg