834. "The Escape Room" by Megan Golden -- 4-Stars

The Escape Room by Megan Golden – 4 Stars

Publisher: St. Martin’s Press

ISBN: 9781250219657

I’m reviewing this to be honest with my opinion. I should only say I was glad I made it 90% to the point where it proved to have a great ending and explained the meaning for all the momentous number of words that I had previously read. Until then, I had a difficult time getting excited to delve back into the book. The plot was interesting in that instead of a story about escaping an inescapable elevator, it switches back and forth in time to detail each character’s personality, strengths, and weaknesses. One doesn’t have to read far to understand that the four in the elevator are a team of self-made elites who have no interest in anybody outside their club, or should I say “the Circle.” Unfortunately, understanding each character to that depth is not that important. My unconscious noticed this first and I started skimming page after page. However, at about 90%, or a little after, when the real storyline was revealed, the action was enthralling. If I could rate this book only on the ending, instead of the anticipated actionable, thrilling, nail-biter, page-turner as I expected, it surely would be a 5-Star. But, until then, I was generally bored and hugging just the 3-Star bar. I’m reminded that people have short memories and thus I should quickly write my review while the ending controlled my emotions. So, with that, I’ll settle on a 4-Star and hope the author in future books can consider continuous thrills and excitement throughout.

Reviewer: Rich, with Nancy’s input as well