artsyfartsymama 's review for:

How to Survive a Horror Story by Mallory Arnold

4.75

dark mysterious tense fast-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

---

This was such a fun read, especially for spooky season! I'd describe the vibes as a clever baby made from Clue, Monster House, and Saw (if it was made of escape rooms). It's a literal locked-room mystery with a creative twist in that the host is already dead, and the guests are there for the will reading. I really liked how descriptive the writing was, and how there are POVs from each character to tell the story. I also liked the "short stories" in between chapters to give more details. The ending didn't hit as hard as the rest of the book, but I still enjoyed the conclusion. Definitely read this one if you get the chance! So. Good.

---

Content Warnings

Graphic: Alcoholism, Body horror, Cancer, Confinement, Death, Domestic abuse, Infidelity, Terminal illness, Blood, Murder, Fire/Fire injury, Injury/Injury detail