The Madman's Daughter by Megan Shepherd

For Review: Harper Voyager
Published: 11 April 2013

From Goodreads: London, 1894. Juliet Moreau has built a life for herself-working as a maid, attending church on Sundays, and trying not to think about the scandal that ruined her life. After all, no one ever proved the rumours about her father′s gruesome experiments. But when she learns her father is alive and continuing his work on a remote tropical island, she is determined to find out if the accusations were true.

Juliet is accompanied by the doctor′s handsome young assistant and an enigmatic castaway, who both attract Juliet for very different reasons. They travel to the island only to discover the depths of her father′s madness: he has created animals that have been vivisected to resemble, speak, and behave as humans. Worse, one of the creatures has turned violent and is killing the island′s inhabitants. Juliet knows she must end her father′s dangerous experiments and escape the island, even though her horror is mixed with her own scientific curiosity. As the island falls into chaos, she discovers the extent of her father′s genius-and madness-in her own blood.

This was a really gripping story. I found myself quickly immersed in the darkly delicious (and rather creepy!) story. I have to admit I have not read (nor was I familiar) with H G Wells' The Island of Dr. Moreau on which this is based - but I can tell you it definitely held my interest (and I just might have to check out the original classic!)

I really loved Megan Shepherd's style of writing - it still has a modern feel yet I also felt transported to a different time. And I loved the voice she gives Juliet. Getting into her head and seeing all the dark and grisly happenings from her point of view really made this story for me.

I loved Montgomery - I really like the history he has with Juliet and the way it's obviously from their first meeting that all the old feelings are still there. Edward was intriguing - I didn't liked him as much as Montgomery but I have to admit there is definitely something about him that holds your interest.

The island - and its inhabitants - give the story a very claustrophobic feel. And the science, although very much science fiction, is presented in a way that makes it very believable and real. The story is also very much a mystery - with Juliet trying to find out the truth -  I loved it.

I can't wait to find out how the story will proceed!

Make sure to stop by tomorrow - I have an interview with Megan Shepherd!