Who is this book for?
- Readers who enjoy slower-paced, character-driven stories with a focus on historical elements and social issues would likely appreciate this book.
- Fans of John Grisham's writing style and those interested in exploring themes of land ownership, corporate greed, and the legacy of slavery in the American South would find it engaging.
- People who enjoy books that blend multiple genres, including historical fiction, legal drama, and light mystery, would also be drawn to this novel.
- Additionally, those who have followed the Camino Island series and are invested in the recurring characters would likely enjoy revisiting this fictional world.
Who is unlikely to appreciate this book?
- Readers expecting a fast-paced, high-stakes legal thriller in Grisham's traditional style may be disappointed by the more leisurely pace and less intense plot of Camino Ghosts.
- Those who prefer complex, unpredictable storylines might find the plot too straightforward and predictable.
- Individuals who are experiencing fatigue from narratives centered around slavery and African American rights may not enjoy the heavy focus on these themes.
- Readers seeking intense suspense or dramatic twists would likely find the book lacking in excitement.
- Finally, those who are critical of what they perceive as 'woke' themes in literature may take issue with some of the book's content and messaging.
Things online reviewers enjoyed about this book
- Compelling plot that combines elements of literary and historical fiction, courtroom drama, and suspense
- Fascinating exploration of the history of Dark Isle and runaway slaves
- Well-developed and interesting characters, especially Lovely Jackson
- Strong courtroom scenes and legal battle aspects
- Captivating storytelling that keeps readers engaged
- Addresses important themes like corporate greed and land ownership rights
- Blends family drama, history, legal thriller and mystery genres effectively
- Provides insightful commentary on Florida's development frenzy and environmental issues
- Emotionally impactful ending that tugs at the heartstrings
- Excellent narration of the audiobook by Whoopi Goldberg
Things people didn't like as much about this book
- Slower paced and less suspenseful than Grisham's typical legal thrillers
- Predictable plot with an outcome that never feels truly in doubt
- Lacks the intensity and high stakes of Grisham's earlier works
- Some readers found it boring and struggled to finish
- Characters outside of Lovely Jackson felt underdeveloped to some
- Repetitive writing in parts
- Ending felt rushed or anticlimactic to some readers
- Not as strong as the previous books in the Camino Island series for some
- Some found the slavery/African American rights themes overdone
- A few readers felt it was written hastily and lacked depth
