Eight Hours and One Deadly Secret: Who Will Survive in 'Five Survive'?

I recently finished reading “Five Survive” by Holly Jackson, the author of “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder”. It is a psychological thriller filled with suspense. In short, it was a roller coaster ride. This book will surely keep you on your toes. Even now, when I am writing this review, I have goosebumps. It’s unlikely that you will pause reading, once you have started the book. Let me give you a brief about the plot. No worries, I won’t be spoiling your reading experience.

The premise of the story is quite slow as it describes 6 friends who are going on a road trip in an RV. Unfortunately their RV breaks down in a desolate place with no cell service. Initially dismissing it, they muster efforts to mend the vehicle. However a creeping uneasiness sets in as realization dawns upon them - THEY ARE NOT ALONE.

With a sniper holding them hostage, each of them has a dirty little secret to expel, that could likely be ‘the’ reason they’re under attack. The entire plot unfolds over the tense and suspenseful span of just 8 hours. Brimming with suspicion and fear they try to get to the bottom of who the target is. At times, doubts may creep in between them; however, at the end of the day, they stand united, bound together by the shared goal of outlasting the sniper's threat.

As the story reaches its crescendo, the harrowing reality emerges: one among them will not emerge from this ordeal alive.

This book is sure to keep you at the edge of your seat constantly wondering -

who is the sniper?

what is the darkest secret?

whose secret is it?

who will die?

will they ever get out alive?

One aspect I find particularly captivating about the book is its division into distinct chapters, each representing a specific moment in time. This structural choice adds an enticing layer to the reading experience—knowing that the narrative is bound to conclude within a finite number of hours, yet remaining completely unaware of the events that will unfold in the subsequent hours. For those in search of mystery, drama, and the thrill of unpredictability, I wholeheartedly recommend delving into this book. If feasible, immersing oneself in a single reading session can greatly amplify the overall impact and enjoyment of the journey.