Day Drinkers - Book Review

"Day Drinkers" by Kitty Turner is a potent and gripping dark reality thriller, a genre known for its unflinching exploration of grim truths, that immediately captivates its audience. Its power begins even before the first page, with striking cover art that serves as an immediate hook for potential readers. This visual masterpiece features an unsettling collage of terrifying, perhaps even disturbing, images artfully juxtaposed against vibrant, serene tropical backdrops. This deliberate contrast cleverly hints at the deeper, unsettling themes within the narrative, promising a story where beauty often conceals a hidden darkness. As a compelling work of literary fiction, the novel skillfully weaves together intricate layers of mystery, escalating suspense, and profound conflict, consistently delivering on these powerful promises throughout its compelling pages.

The vibrant and colorful Caribbean culture of the island's native inhabitants stands in stark contrast to the invasive “get rich quick” mentality brought by wealthy and powerful outsiders. This clash of worlds has given rise to a corrupt underworld, where drug and human trafficking are slowly overtaking the island’s once-peaceful way of life. At the center of this conflict is Gemma, a young mixed-race woman whose identity ties her to both cultures. Struggling to find her place, she is torn between the traditions of her heritage and the wealthy and powerful outsiders.

Trying to find her path to her dreams, perhaps a way out of her difficult circumstances or a chance at true independence, she is unexpectedly lured into the multi-million dollar underworld. Her innate understanding of the sea, honed by years as a live-aboard sailor, soon plunges her into an unforgettable, perilous adventure alongside a motley crew: a jaded, drunken mariner, an eager yet naive boat boy, and a spiritual but surprisingly resilient yoga instructor. Departing from a secluded, private island known for its illicit 'forbidden pleasures,' she takes on the challenging role of crewing a sailing yacht. This voyage quickly devolves into a desperate struggle for survival, as they encounter a gauntlet of dangers including ruthless pirates, the raw fury of a Caribbean hurricane, and dangerous drug runners. Together, they endure terrifying close calls: facing gunfire, being violently cast into the turbulent sea, and ultimately, finding themselves shipwrecked and washing ashore on a remote beach in Cuba. Every harrowing moment, every calculated risk, is undertaken in pursuit of the vast, illicit wealth that promises to change their lives, albeit at an unimaginable cost.

The author's ten years as a live-aboard sailor and travel writer qualify her to authentically portray the vibrant culture of the Caribbean. She was intimately familiar with both the opulent casinos and nightclubs, and the rich traditions of local carnival customs. Her background in regional legends, mystical beings, and local superstitions adds depth and authentic atmosphere to the novel.

IIn addition to exploring the challenges of island life and an adventurous tale, Turner masterfully intertwines Gemma’s journey of self-discovery, her struggles, poor decisions, and her ultimate redemption. The story offers a thoughtful examination of its diverse characters while highlighting Gemma’s moral dilemma between taking illegal shortcuts and pursuing a better path. This engaging adventure will keep readers hooked until the final pages to uncover Gemma’s fate.