A review by cj_mo_2222
Only One Survives by Hannah Mary McKinnon

challenging dark emotional mysterious sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

If you are looking for a mystery/thriller that will truly surprise you, this is it. Vienna Taylor, from a poor background, and privileged Madison Pierce are unlikely best friends, but their love of music brought them together and keeps them bonded even when things get tough. They first form a duo and then add new members and become a very successful female rock/pop group. While on their way from New York City to the Catskills for an industry holiday party, they're in a car accident and become stranded in an abandoned cabin during a blizzard and not everyone will survive.

The main characters in this book are memorable and I enjoyed following their ups and downs. There is one person in Vienna's life that is such a one-dimensional villain, it was hard to take some of the things done seriously even though they were appalling. Some other things appear to be predictable, but I soon learned that appearances can be deceiving! 

Since the story involves a pop/rock band and has some multimedia elements (podcast transcripts, newspaper articles, social media comments), some readers have made comparisons to Daisy Jones and the Six, which is still on my #tbrlist. The cabin scenes have vibes that remind me of the TV series Yellowjackets, as you're wondering who will survive and what is really going on. Besides the current timeline dealing with the accident and the aftermath, there is a past timeline that talks about earlier events in Vienna and Madison's lives.I love being surprised and this twist is very unexpected but it also made me a little sad when the truth was revealed.  I can't say too much more without spoiling the shocking plot turn, but even the most seasoned thriller fan will do a double-take when it occurs. 

I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley, HTP Books, and MIRA. My review is voluntary and unbiased. 
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