Four days. Two hikers. One killer.
The plot: Cousins Katie and Aster have always been close. Until last year. But Aster is hoping their 4-day backpacking trip among Utah's red rocks and slot canyons will help heal both Katie and their relationship. But their 49-mile hike in the desert brings some unexpected surprises: an illness, a storm, running low on water & food, an injury, and two strangers. Riley and Finn might be a perfectly nice couple, but something feels off. Katie is suspicious and fearful of Finn, Riley is acting nervous, and Aster isn't sure what to think. When Riley and Finn vanish into the desert night, Katie and Aster know they need to go for help. They just need to survive the last 23 miles.
My thoughts: It's no secret that I love hiking and wilderness survival stories, so I was immediately drawn to this book for that reason. Plus, it's set in the scenic red rock backcountry of Moab, Utah; and I always enjoy reading books that are set in my own home state. And I definitely had fun reading this one. It's fast, has good tension, builds suspense, and really immerses you in that isolated desert environment. Katie and Aster were relatable characters that I also liked. And I appreciated Katie's personal journey as she overcame her fears and past trauma to stand strong at the end. It's a solid 4-star adventure.
Happy Reading!
I think I might have read a book by this author a few years ago. This one sounds interesting and adding the setting would be a plus. Will keep it in mind. Have a good weekend, Lark!
ReplyDeleteIt'd be a great summer read! :D
DeleteThis sounds very intriguing! I'd love to visit Moab one of these days. It's so beautiful. Hope you have a wonderful weekend, Lark! :D
ReplyDeleteArches National Park, which is right outside of Moab, is one of my most favorite places. I love all that red rock! :D
DeleteOoh Natalie Richards. I liked the book by her I read. I'll have to add this one. I need to read more of her.
ReplyDeleteI want to read some more of her books now, too. :D
DeleteI like hiking but that kind of drama would freak me out if I were the one having to live it.
ReplyDeleteYeah, I don't want to hike with any suspected murderers! ;D
DeleteGreat review, Lark!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Cindy. :D
DeleteSounds like a good one!
ReplyDeleteIt really was. A fun summer read...even though we're months away from summer. ;D
DeleteI will look, this one up and its not only a wilderness adventure but a mystery. What happened to Riley and Finn?
ReplyDeleteThat question is what makes the ending so suspenseful!
DeleteThis sounds like an incredible read, especially for anyone who loves survival stories with a bit of suspense! The setting in Moab, Utah, really adds to the immersive experience, and it's great that the tension builds well throughout the story. Katie and Aster seem like well-developed characters, and I love that Katie's personal growth is woven into the adventure. The unknown element with Riley and Finn keeps the stakes high, and the desert environment just adds to the urgency. A solid 4-star review definitely makes me want to pick this one up!
ReplyDeleteIt's a good one!
DeleteI don't think I would do well on a hike that long, but that wouldn't stop me from enjoying reading about characters who do--and what a harrowing situation! This sounds like an intense novel. I am glad you enjoyed it!
ReplyDeleteI don't know how I'd do on a long hike either. I'm not super fond of dirt or sleeping on the ground. ;D But they're awfully fun to read about.
DeleteI hope it wasn't summertime as that could be a cooker. I like Moab - beautiful area and perfect setting for a thriller. 23 miles is pretty far to go in a short time.
ReplyDeleteMoab is a beautiful area. And they weren't hiking in the heat of summer, though the days still got pretty hot.
DeleteI’m glad you enjoyed it. Happy reading. Thinking of you my friend.
ReplyDeletewww.rsrue.blogspot.com
Thank you!!!
DeleteThis sounds great! I love wilderness stories too, and this seems like one I need to read!
ReplyDeleteIt's a very fun summer read kind of book. :D
DeleteIt is fun when it's a setting you're familiar with. I love a good survival type of story! This sounds exactly like something I'd love! :)
ReplyDeleteI love a good survival story, too. And this was fun. It'd be a good summer read...not too deep, fast-paced, and entertaining. :D
Delete