Rory Miller thought her life was over when a serial killer set his sights on her and forced her into witness protection. But a fresh start on Juniper Landing Island was exactly what she and her family needed. For the first time in years she and her sister hang out at the beach, gossip about boys, and party together. She's also made friends with a local clique--including a magnetic and mysterious boy named Tristan.
But Rory's world is about to change again. Picturesque Juniper Landing isn't what it seems. The truth about the swirling fog that rolls in each morning, the bridge that leads to nowhere, and those beautiful locals who seem to watch Rory's every move is more terrifying than being hunted by Steven Nell. And all Rory ever wanted was the truth. Even if it means learning that she can never go home again. From the best-selling author of the Private and Privilege series comes the second novel in a heart-stopping trilogy about a girl who must pick up the pieces after the only life she's ever known ends. - goodreads.com
"Hereafter" picks up immediately where "Shadowlands" left off. Rory now has to learn to accept that she, her family, and all the inhabitants of Juniper Island are dead. However, Rory is one of a chosen few "lifers" who must escort the inhabitants to their final resting place, "The Light" or the dreaded "Shadowlands." I liked the fact that Brian kept the descriptions of "The Light" and "Shadowlands," and the reasons one would end up in either spot somewhat ambiguous. This allows the reader to interpret it in their own way based on their individual religion or belief system. I also appreciated that Rory didn't blindly accept the information she learned about herself and Juniper Island as truth. I loved that she continued to question the somewhat unbelievable circumstances she found herself in. As the story progresses, Rory must fight for her family against a foe stronger and more mysterious than any serial killer. Brian successfully keeps you guessing as to who or what is causing the disturbance in Juniper Island until the very last page, and as the novel closes on a cliffhanger, I am not convinced that the true culprit was revealed. This novel also reminds you to never take life for granted and has deeper more spiritual tone than Brian's other work.
I recommend "Hereafter" to anyone who loves a good mystery with a supernatural spin and of course to any fan of Kate Brian's!
As always I received no financial compensation for this review. Special thanks to Netgalley for providing me with an digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
