Between Worlds: Navigating Eye of the Ouroboros

I am thankful to both NetGalley and the author for giving me the chance to read an advance copy of the upcoming novel “Eye of the Ouroboros”, which is scheduled to be published on April 15th, 2024. Add it to your tbr now!

Book description from the back cover

When guilt-stricken park ranger Theodora Buchanan gets too close to the truth of her sister Flora’s strange disappearance, the Federal Bureau of Reality intervenes to ensure that the otherworldly answers she finds never see the light of day…

The National Parks Service Search and Rescue Team knows better than anyone that the woods surrounding the insular town of Mill Creek, West Virginia have a habit of taking people and refusing to give them back. They also know that when you find a door in the woods, you don’t go through it for fear of never coming back again. But Theo's tenacity, and her proclivity for sticking her crooked nose where it doesn’t belong, has caught the attention of the Federal Bureau of Reality: those who stand sentinel at the gates of the Infinite Corridor, where endless hostile realities converge. When Theo steps boldly through a door in the woods, she learns just how far they're willing to go in order to keep all its secrets locked tight - even if that means silencing those who stumble upon them permanently.

My Review

Megan Bontrager’s “Eye of the Ouroboros” explores the complexities of relationships and the sacrifices we make for loved ones. Theo, the protagonist of this emotional journey, is a character who is flawlessly imperfect, leaving a lasting impact on readers with her struggles and triumphs.

What I loved about the book

Rich and Descriptive Writing

Megan Bontrager’s Eye of the Ouroboros takes you on a captivating journey through the interwoven web of relationships and reality. Bontrager’s writing is undeniably rich and descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the world within the pages.

Authentic Characters

Theo’s authenticity shines through, her struggles and flaws rendering her refreshingly human amidst the chaos. The characters in the narrative won my heart, especially the core group introduced later. The dynamic between the characters, from the troubled sister to the conspiracy theorist, was flawlessly shown, highlighting their stark differences.

Sapphic Representation and World-Building

The sapphic representation is a standout feature, adding layers of complexity to the narrative and enhancing the richness of the world-building. Bontrager skillfully blurs the lines between reality and the unknown, keeping you hooked until the final page.

What didn’t resonate with me

Slow Start and Pacing Issues

While the depth of character development is commendable, some readers may find themselves grappling with the pacing. The slow start, though crucial for character introduction and immersion, may test the patience of those seeking instant gratification. It’s not until chapter eight that the narrative truly gains momentum, which could deter some from continuing. I feel like the first half of the book was better paced than the last part.

Unresolved Plot Threads and Confusion

Where Eye of the Ouroboros falters is in the sheer scope of its plot. While ambitious in its execution, some may find the narrative threads too many and unresolved. The occasional confusion and rushed pacing detract from an otherwise immersive experience, with random elements disrupting the flow of the story.

If you enjoy flawed female characters, creepy forests, parallel realities, and action-packed horror, then you should definitely give this book a try.