The Lesson by Cadwell Turnbull

The Lesson by Cadwell Turnbull

Available June 18, 2019

The Lesson is a dark and twisting novel about how those that are most powerful can so easily justify putting their desires ahead of those less powerful than them.  The island of St. Thomas has a long history of groups invading and conquering but none have been as deadly or feared as the Ynaa. Trading advanced technology and medicines for the right to live on St. Thomas, the Ynaa don’t see themselves as invaders.  Coming from a dangerous and war-torn world, the Ynaa want only to study the humans on the island and live amongst the people. But when the Ynaa officials excuse the violent and deadly outbursts of their fellow Ynaa, the humans have had enough. The human governments are unconcerned about the deaths of a few islanders, there has been far too many medical and engineering advancements to justify fighting against the Ynaa.  But there is evidence that the Ynaa have been on this earth for far longer than they claimed. Photographs and folktales of incredible strength and miracle cures are more common than people realize.

When another interaction with the Ynaa leads to the death of an islander, conflicts begin all over the island and no one is safe.  

Dark, gripping, and powerfully written, The Lesson is a page turning thriller of violence and hope.  I found it to be an interesting and engaging take on alien invasion. This is the first novel I’ve read about an alien invasion taking place on an island.  Usually it’s New York City or Los Angeles-some major American city. It was quite refreshing to have the setting as St. Thomas and to see the difference a place makes in how the characters interact with the opposing force.  

Highly enjoyed this one and I highly recommend it for anyone who loves a good sci-fi thriller.

Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read and review this title.  All opinions and mistakes are my own.

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