FINAL GIRLS Review

Final Girls - Riley Sager

Release Date: 07.11.17

 

I finished this novel in two sittings, over the span of five hours. This debut release from Riley Sager is a story that must be completed once begun — so don't start it on a school or work night!

 

To discuss much of the plot would spoil the story, and that's no good. So, I'll say this: Final Girls is the story of three girls (though we see the story through the perspective of only one, as is necessary), all lone survivors of gruesome massacres. They share a bond with one another, and it is from this bond horrific secrets and ties come to light. I would love to say more, really, but I can't. I don't want to risk spoiling anything.

 

Written in the vein of Gillian Flynn (though this is grittier and scarier than Flynn's stuff, I found) while being its own thing, this is a stunning ride — one on which the brakes stop working just after it begins. This author successfully pulled the rug out from under me no less than six times; every time I thought I knew the direction in which this grisly thriller was going, it galloped somewhere else entirely. I had to give in and give up, and put myself totally at this author's mercy. If it weren't for a dinner break, I would have read this book even faster.

 

A totally original and complex exploration of a hellish scenario, Final Girls might just be the best book I've read this year. I suspect it will become a runaway success upon release, and rightfully so.

 

Thanks to Netgalley and Penguin Group Dutton for the ARC, which was given in exchange for an honest review.