A review by shinynewjb
No One Gets Out Alive by Adam L.G. Nevill

dark mysterious medium-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

5.0

 A young woman struggling against the gig economy and UK recession is forced to make choices which put her in a harrowing situation where a supernatural threat may be the least of her problems. The thing that makes this story absolutely terrifying is the fact that even though Stephanie must be one of the most resourceful horror protagonists ever put to page, her situation is still near impossible to escape. As always with Nevill's books, the combination of supernatural and eldritch horror is near perfection and provides some real chills right from the opening chapter. Thanks to the evocative prose, I could picture the grimy and run down Birmingham house with perfect clarity right down to the aged and peeling wallpaper and the filth encrusted carpets, adding to the feeling of desperation. The writing feels multisensory and the whole book is filled with sounds and smells which build the atmosphere immensely. There is violence and sexual violence here but none of it is written to titillate and Stephanie's character is not sexualised, which is refreshing to read in horror. The human villains are insidious and well crafted. Similar to Nevill's The Ritual, the book is split into two sections with the latter part growing the narrative whilst bringing the story to a satisfying conclusion. Highly recommended!