A review by tsundoku_
Five Survive by Holly Jackson

challenging dark emotional mysterious sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

This is the type of book to leave me staring at the wall for the rest of the day after I finish it. I can't believe how well this book manipulated me. I never once expected any of those plot twists. Pretty much everything I have to say about this is a spoiler

First off Oliver is probably my least favorite character I've ever read in any book. I was so surprised he wasn't the one who was with the killer because he was so controlling. He tried to kill several of them. I never once expected Arthur and maybe that's because I know he never wanted any of that to happen. His letter at the end was sweet. Even though he was involved, he never wanted anyone to die or get hurt. If I was in his shoes I wouldn't know what to do either. I didn't really trust Maddy most of the book just because she seemed like Red was a burden to her. But after finding out what her and Oliver's mom did, I now understand why Maddy did the things she did. I didn't entirely trust Simon either but I mean he is an actor. I think Simon's character could have been developed a little bit more.

This fell short of my expectations after loving AGGGTM. However, I seriously can't wait until Holly Jackson releases another book because she's scarily good at making me think it could be any possible explanation besides the one it actually is. And then going back and seeing all the little clues I missed makes me appreciate it even more.