Review: The Suffering by Rin Chupeco (L)

Synopsis: Seventeen-year-old Tark knows what it is to be powerless. But Okiku changed that. A restless spirit who ended life as a victim and started death as an avenger, she's groomed Tark to destroy the wicked. But when darkness pulls them deep into Aokigahara, known as Japan's suicide forest, Okiku's justice becomes blurred, and Tark is the one who will pay the price... (from the online description)

Review: Picking up about a year after The Girl From the Well, this is written from Tark’s point of view. We follow him as he settles into a life with Okiku as his ghost-companion. He is her “doll” and she is compelled to stay with him – or risk losing him to another spirit. As they work to balance their life together, Tark received word that one of the women who helped him in the previous book has gone missing. Feeling a debt, Tark embarks on a mission to save her.

But she is lost in the forest known for its darkness and death. Something old, something evil, lures people there and feeds on their suffering. To save his friend, Tark must travel into the heart of darkness. There, he will encounter not only that which might take his life, but Okiku’s existence as well.

With more action then the previous novel, this feels very much like a classic horror movie, but without the cheesy jump-scares. Seeped in Japanese lore and mystical magical arts, we learned a bit about Japanese ghost stories and what might make them come to life.

Complex characters, fast-paced action, and lots of creepy atmosphere creates a fun read, particularly for a dark and stormy night. Worth reading if you are looking for something a bit different than your regular YA. 

Bookmarks: 4 of 5

Awards: None

ISBN: 978-1-4926-2983-2
Year Published: 2015
Date Finished: 6-16-2018
Pages: 313