“The Four” is a dark and atmospheric journey that delves deep into the psyche of its characters and the environment that shapes them.
From the very first line, Keel sets the stage for a story that is as moody as it is atmospheric. The setting, a private and elite school, is more than just a setting; it’s a character. The ivy-covered walls and hallowed halls are steeped in secrets, and Keel uses vivid descriptions to bring this secluded world to life. The imagery is so powerful that you can almost feel the chill of the stone and the weight of the silence that pervades the grounds.
The narrative is tense, each chapter tightening the knot of suspense. Keel’s writing is a masterclass in building tension, with a sense of foreboding that is omnipresent. The relationships between the characters are messy and fraught with complexity. These are not the sanitized, idealized friendships of typical school tales; they are raw, messy, and real. Loyalty, guilt, and toxic relationships interlink, driving the characters to actions that are as shocking as they are inevitable.
There is no relief from the bleakness in “The Four.” It’s relentlessly dark, with a narrative that doesn’t shy away from the brutal realities of bullying, cruelty, elitism, and privilege. The story is addictive, pulling you into its depths even as you wish you could look away. Driven by Keel’s talent for creating a complex plot, you’re compelled to read on.
While “The Four” might be set in the sacred grounds of an educational institution, it’s more thriller than dark academia. The stakes are high, and the consequences are devastating. Keel explores themes of loyalty, guilt, and toxic friendship with masterful skill, ensuring that the novel is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling.
This is not a book for the faint of heart. The content is graphic, and the emotional impact is intense. The author does not hold back in depicting violence and the darker aspects of human nature. Readers should be aware of the potential triggers and approach this book with caution if they are sensitive to such content.
One of the most striking aspects of “The Four” is its exploration of vulnerability. It’s a poignant reminder of the impact our actions can have on others, particularly those who are still finding their way in the world.
Ellie Keel’s writing is nothing short of brilliant. She captures the essence of apprehension and tension with every word, beautiful and haunting.
“The Four” is an impressive, evocative novel that offers a stark look at the complexities of human relationships. It’s a journey worth taking, but one that must be approached with eyes wide open.
Thank you to Jonathan Ball Publishers for this ARC copy.
About the book: Fiction: The Four (jonathanball.co.za)
About the author: Ellie Keel – Curtis Brown
