"Five Survive" Book Review

August 8th, 2023

After completing the "A Good Girl's Guide to Murder" series, I was inspired to start a blog (as you can probably tell by the website name) and the third novel, "As Good as Dead" became one of my new favorite books. So, to say I was impressed is the understatement of the century.

Since her first series was a smash, I had a lot of faith in her, but I was also sad to see the series with characters I loved so much come to a finish. And, I was nervous that her next novel just wouldn't be the same.

While "Five Survive" is certainly different from Holly's debut series, it's different in a good way. It has a totally new vibe, that places four teens and two college kids in an extremely high-pressure situation. Rather than have someone on the outside looking in, this novel places these six friends at the center of the mystery.

Seeing the sides that come out of each character is eye-opening and, in some cases, angering (*cough cough* Oliver). Everyone's relationship towards eachother changes along the way, and the plot twists were SO unexpected, like I was genuinely shocked as I was reading. "Five Survive" is super fast paced with a shocking ending, but one that I very much liked. 

While I think the ending could possibly set up a sequel, I saw online that she's not heading in that direction. With that being said, I would love a quick lil epilogue. However, whatever direction Holly Jackson goes in next, I know I'll be a part of as a reader.

Finally, just wanted to say one more thing. I think Holly Jackson's specialty is mystery/thriller with a side of romance. I didn't know if there would be some romance going on in this novel like Pip and Ravi had in AGGGTM, but there was indeed a romance side plot. It was totally different from Pip and Ravi, but interesting and enjoyable in its own unique way.

With all that being said, I'd definitely recommend this novel to anyone and everyone who enjoyed AGGGTM or just likes mystery/thriller in general. I LOVED "Five Survive", and I can't wait to see what masterpiece Holly Jackson comes up with next.