Matt Renshaw returns from his daily run, opens the door of his cheap, rented apartment and discovers a life he does not recognise. His new girlfriend is flawless, he’s written a best selling novel, and, for the first time in his life, he has money in his bank account.
His dreams have come true. Yet Matt cannot shake his obsession with Katya, his love of a previous life. Embroiled in confusion, jealousy and the familiar darkness of binge drinking, Matt follows his heart, pursuing Katya and the torment she always brings.
Tantric Mountain is an interesting read. As a reader you stumble along in darkness for some time trying to figure out what is going on. Once you surrender to the mystery, it is gripping and hard to put down as you are overcome with the need to work it all out. It is an easy read, but it is not a book you can tune out from.
In between Matt’s journey, is a narration by Nikolas Remano, a man on a mission to track subversive bloggers. This component tripped me up to start with but it does all begin to make sense as the story evolves. Each character is fully formed and relatable, which makes you invest in the story.
The story has a cracking pace once it gets past the slow start. However, the gem is in the ending. The finale is one that you will not see coming. Hook does a stunning job at both resolving the mystery for the reader and leaving you ache for more.
Hook, a New Zealander, has crafted a very unique and interesting story in Tantric Mountain. A great adult novel that explores dark places with refreshing charm and vulnerability.
REVIEWER: Rebekah Fraser
Tantric Mountain, by B C Hook, is published by Dispersion, RRP $10.99.