Title: Getaway by Zoje Stage
Publisher: Mulholland Books
Genre: Contemporary, Thriller, Suspense
Length: 352 pages
Book Rating: B+
Complimentary Review Copy Provided by Publisher Through NetGalley
Summary:
n this terrifying novel from the bestselling “master of the psychological thriller” and author of Baby Teeth (Entertainment Weekly), three friends set off on a hike into the Grand Canyon—only to discover it’s not so easy to leave the world behind.
It was supposed to be the perfect week away . . .
Imogen and Beck, two sisters who couldn’t be more different, have been friends with Tilda since high school. Once inseparable, over two decades the women have grown apart. But after Imogen survives a traumatic attack, Beck suggests they all reunite to hike deep into the Grand Canyon’s backcountry. A week away, secluded in nature . . . surely it’s just what they need.
But as the terrain grows tougher, tensions from their shared past bubble up. And when supplies begin to disappear, it becomes clear secrets aren’t the only thing they’re being stalked by. As friendship and survival collide with an unspeakable evil, Getaway becomes another riveting thriller from a growing master of suspense and a “literary horror writer on the rise” (BookPage).
Review:
Getaway by Zoje Stage is a thrilling adventure set in the Grand Canyon.
Thirty-four-year-old author Imogen Blum has recently experienced a traumatic experience. In the aftermath, she is suffering from anxiety and she is unable to concentrate on writing. Her older sister Beck lives in Flagstaff and she suggests a hike into the Grand Canyon with their childhood friend Tilda Jimenez would be the prefect distraction. Although reluctant, Imogen’s fond memories of hiking with her family and sister persuade her to agree. While Imogen remains uncertain she is making the right decision, the three women soon set off on their weeklong hiking trip.
Initially, Imogen’s worries follow her on the trip. She also brings her resentment toward Tilda for something that happened when they were in college. However, the fresh air and physical activity soon begin working their magic on her. That is until someone steals some of their food. Stealing from fellow hikers is virtually unheard of, but they push aside their uneasiness. Then Imogen makes an even more troubling discovery. Unfortunately, Beck convinces her it is nothing to worry about so they do not mention it to Tilda. Imogen is not as relaxed their second night of camping and she has a valid reason to worry. But Beck’s explanation soothes her fears. The next day is fraught as Beck brings the issues between Tilda and Imogen into the open. She has high expectations the two friends will work through their differences.
Their arrival back at their camp sets the stage for the series of events they endure over the next few days. Their nerves are stretched to the limit and tempers flare as they are soon in a fight for their very survival. Their individual strengths and weaknesses guide their decision-making (for better or worse) as they try to save themselves from what could be a horrible fate.
Getaway is a fast-paced and engrossing thriller. The characters are well-developed with realistic life experiences. Vibrant descriptions bring the Grand Canyon vividly to life and highlight how the elements factor into the on-going struggle Imogen, Beck and Tilda are facing. With breathtaking twists and chilling turns, Zoje Stage brings this suspense-laden novel to an unexpected but completely satisfying conclusion.
