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Why I chose to read this book:
1. I like Emma Donoghue's writing style and really enjoyed reading her three earlier novels; and,
2. September 2022 was my self-declared "Historical Fiction Month".

Praises:
1. I love a strong character-driven novel! As I followed Prior Artt and two fellow monks, old Cormac and young Trian on their quest to found a monastery on a remote island devoid of other people (but a whole lot of birds!), I could understand the monks' initial unquestioning obedience which eventually led to exasperation, anger, depression, fear, and finally, mutiny. Even Prior Artt's ultimate decisions, though frustrating, were believable to his character;
2. the setting lends itself vividly to this story of survival. Occurring during the 7th century on the steep, bare island of Skellig Michael (of Star Wars fame as Luke Skywalker's hideaway), I was entranced by Cormac's cleverness in creating unique ways to make-do, and I felt Trian's deep appreciation of nature;
3. I was moved by the sentence on p. 34 ..."Trian wonders why men vie to amass possessions, when they can't even hold onto their own skin for longer than God allots; and,
4. as I was reading, my mind came up with several possible scenarios as to how this story could end, including the one the author chose. Actually, any one of them would have been satisfying to me!

Overall Thoughts:
I never doubted the unwavering observances and beliefs the two lower-order monks followed early on in this story, because that's just the way it was during that time period, but I do think the story's time frame was plausible when these men began questioning their circumstances. Many readers may have been turned off by this belief system, but as a practicing Catholic myself, I firmly believe something my local priest has stated, "We know that we do not put our faith in Christ's followers, but in Christ himself." This is something that all Christians should bear in mind!

Recommendation?
If you're looking to read a fast-paced, action-packed novel, look elsewhere. But if you appreciate a page-turner depicting the believable growth and/or downfall of characters living in a harsh environment, then give this book a look-see!