This book is geared towards pre-teens and teens who generally appreciate a fast-paced, suspense-driven story. The characters are realistic and likable, and the story is scary but not terrifying. I feel that the author worked to include romantic elements into the storyline and also the inclusion of a mental health storyline that young people can identify with. Since I am above the age range of the book, I found the story a bit predictable and would caution the author against writing a series of books that continue along the same storyline, unless written with different plot twists and circumstances. Overall, I think younger teens will appreciate this book and would probably reach for other titles by this author.

*THIS POST INCLUDES SPOILERS*

I was really not a fan of this one. The escape room idea was unique and clever, but poorly executed. The plot skipped around so quickly, making it confusing without the extra background and explanation. I couldn't stand Lexi, and her relationship with Tess was just...odd. I understand she's worried about her cousin and wants to prevent her having the same fate as Kelly, but it came across as weird and possessive. I think more context about Kelly and background of the characters would have really helped there. On that note, I really feel like more background and development for each character was needed - I found myself needed to flip back because I was confused only to find there wasn't detail or explanation to begin with. Zora felt like an afterthought that was just thrown into the mix; removing her from the story wouldn't have impacted the storyline at all. And don't get me started with Lexi and Beau's kiss - where on earth did that come from?!

I hate giving poor reviews as I can't imagine the effort it takes from start to finish, but this one wasn't it. I know it was marketed toward YA audiences, but I think even my 7th graders would have felt lost with this one. As someone who has struggled with depression for a good chunk of my life, that aspect of the story felt poorly research and over dramatized. Adding more character development and buildup between events would have given the choppy writing and storyline more flow. Thanks for the ARC in exchange for my review!