Review of The Captive by Margaret C. Jones
Ah, The Captive. If there’s one book I had high hopes for, this was it. With whispers of Rosemary’s Baby and a tale that promised to intertwine horror with chilling family legacies, I was ready to dive into a narrative brimming with dark, devilish insanity. So, when I received an ARC of this intriguing story via NetGalley, my anticipation soared. I envisioned a plot saturated with fire, brimstone, and perhaps a devilish baby wreaking havoc—but what I got was quite another tale indeed.
Let’s start with the premise, which centers around a terrorist group known as the Nail, plotting to kidnap Adeline, the daughter of the sinister Wooslaw family. I appreciate the layered backstory that delves into the characters of Cam, Rosa, and Luke, three members determined to expose the true nature of their targets. However, instead of the gripping horror I craved, the narrative often meandered through discussions about the group’s plans and their personal histories. I found myself longing for the dark mythos surrounding the Wooslaws—after all, a family striking deals with the devil surely packs more punch than the ins and outs of a mediocre kidnapping scheme.
The dialogue felt off-kilter, lacking the raw authenticity that brings characters to life. While I understand that everyone has quirks, the way these characters conversed often felt scripted rather than natural. This disconnect made it hard for me to fully invest in their plights, especially when the most tantalizing character, Percy (the devil baby!), got sidelined. Frankly, for a child destined to send chills down our spines, his introduction and development felt lackluster. The moment of his birth happens off-screen, leaving readers a bit robbed of that initial horror.
Notably, the narrative turned captivating whenever Adeline discussed her parents’ abyssal pact with the devil—complete with bloodletting and sacrifices. Now that’s where I wanted more depth! Those moments displayed a sinister richness that could have flourished throughout the story. I craved the gritty details: How did this unholy pact begin? What did the Wooslaws sacrifice to obtain their power?
Instead, we get a romance that seems to sap the story of its intended tension. Adeline and Luke’s growing attachment felt unnecessary and showcased characters who weren’t all that likable. It’s a shame because with a premise like this, one would expect drama with sharp teeth, not the romantic subplot that felt tacked on at best.
In terms of writing style, Jones commands a straightforward narrative that, while accessible, sometimes lacks the lush prose that can elevate a dark story to chilling heights. The pacing feels uneven; thrill-seekers might find the build-up lacking in payoff. Instead of terror, we often drift into mundane conversations that detract from the overall suspense.
Ultimately, while there are flashes of brilliance in The Captive, it didn’t deliver the devilish chaos I anticipated. If you’re looking for a book that explores dark familial pacts and the supernatural with a touch of horror, you might find moments to enjoy. However, if you’re seeking a pulse-pounding read infused with relentless terror, you may need to look elsewhere. Perhaps Percy will have a more prominent role in a sequel—one can hope!
For those drawn to family drama with a dark twist, The Captive could provide a moderately engaging read, but be prepared: it may not have the demonic flair you expect.