Book Review: Final Girls by Riley Sager

Final Girls

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Final Girls 〰️

This is my second book by this author, and it will certainly not be the last. I've already ordered two more of Sager's books, and I'm pretty sure he's now going to be an insta-buy for me.

I absolutely love horror movies. Especially ones that include final girls. Halloween, Friday the 13th, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, to name a few. So, I picked up this book on the title alone. (And also because I've read The Last Time I Lied by the same author, which I also loved). While this book isn't anything like those classic horror movies, it still has that element of thriller, mystery and suspense.

We know Sager wants us to figure out what really happened to Quincy during the Pine Cottage incident. Sager tries to make us think Quincy herself was the real killer. But it's too obvious despite all the evidence pointing towards her for most of the read. Then, when we learn about Sam's true identity, the first twist, I was like, Oh my God! It was actually her the whole time! But nope! Sager pulls a fast one, and it was probably obvious to most readers, but it wasn't to me until a chapter or so before the big reveal of who actually committed the Pine Cottage killings. To say I was shocked was an understatement. Love that Tina, despite all her flaws, was actually pretty cool in the end and formed a bond with Quincy.

That being said, I love Sager's writing style. I also love how he breathes life into each character. And the twists! I'm a super big fan of Sager from now on. I think this author is one to watch out for.

Book Review: The Last Time I Lied by Riley Sager

The Last Time I Lied

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The Last Time I Lied 〰️

Two truths and a lie.

One: I loved this book from the very first page.

Two: I didn't see the twists coming (it might be obvious to some, but I'm usually pretty oblivious to these kinds of things).

Three: I wouldn't say I liked this book.

Which is the lie? Did you guess number three? Because it was number three.

I absolutely loved this book, from the three chapters in the second person POV (well written), the big reveal about the girl's disappearance (both sets!), and the writing style. I loved it all. When done correctly, I also love a good unreliable narrator, and Sager delivered on that front.

My only nitpick is the side plot about the asylum. I loved that side plot and thought it was super cool and creepy. But I feel like the ending to that plot was a bit of a letdown. I mean, sure, the girls were found there and it was a perfect murder place, but I don't know. I was expecting something more for some reason. Also, I would have liked to see Emma interact with the campers more. She barely did her job and I'm surprised she didn't get in trouble for that.

Besides that, the story had a very interesting premise that kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time I was reading. I never wanted to put the book down and I love that feeling. This book had everything I didn't know I needed in a book. Some mystery, a bit of horror, a bit of romance, great characters, and great writing.

I think I'll be checking more of Sager's books. As for this one? I highly recommend it.