Holly Jackson's Five Survive is a gripping addition to the young adult crime thriller genre, a testament to her prowess in crafting suspenseful narratives that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Known for her best-selling Good Girl’s Guide to Murder trilogy, Jackson once again delivers a story that is both thrilling and thought-provoking, exploring themes of friendship, trust, and the dark secrets that can lurk beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary lives.

The premise of Five Survive is deceptively simple yet incredibly effective. The story unfolds over the course of eight harrowing hours, during which six friends find themselves trapped in an RV, targeted by a mysterious sniper. The setting—a broken-down RV in the middle of nowhere—serves as a claustrophobic backdrop that amplifies the tension and fear experienced by the characters. This confined space becomes a crucible where hidden truths are revealed, and the group's dynamics are tested to their limits.

Jackson excels in creating a palpable sense of dread and urgency. From the moment the RV's wheels are shot out, the narrative hurtles forward with relentless momentum. The pacing is masterful, with each chapter ending on a cliffhanger that compels the reader to keep turning the pages. The author skillfully balances action with introspection, allowing moments of high tension to be interspersed with quieter, more reflective scenes that delve into the characters' psyches.

At the heart of the story is Red, an eighteen-year-old whose perspective anchors the narrative. Red is a compelling protagonist, characterized by her resilience and resourcefulness. As the night unfolds, her internal struggles and vulnerabilities are laid bare, making her a relatable and sympathetic character. Jackson's portrayal of Red's emotional journey is nuanced and authentic, capturing the complexities of a young woman grappling with fear, guilt, and the weight of past decisions.

The supporting characters are equally well-drawn, each with their own distinct personalities and secrets. The dynamics within the group are intricately woven, with alliances shifting and tensions simmering beneath the surface. As the sniper's motives become clearer, the friends are forced to confront their own biases and assumptions about each other. This exploration of trust and betrayal adds depth to the narrative, elevating it beyond a simple survival story.

One of the most compelling aspects of Five Survive is its exploration of the theme of secrets and their destructive power. Each character harbors a secret, and as these are gradually revealed, the reader is invited to question the nature of truth and the lengths people will go to protect their own interests. Jackson deftly examines the moral ambiguities inherent in these situations, challenging readers to consider the consequences of deception and the possibility of redemption.

The sniper, though largely unseen, is a menacing presence throughout the novel. Jackson's decision to keep the antagonist shrouded in mystery heightens the suspense and allows the focus to remain on the psychological drama unfolding within the RV. The sniper's motivations, when finally revealed, are both shocking and thought-provoking, prompting readers to reflect on the broader societal issues that underpin the narrative.

In terms of style, Jackson's writing is crisp and evocative, with a keen eye for detail that brings the setting and characters to life. Her dialogue is sharp and realistic, capturing the nuances of teenage speech without resorting to clichés. The author's ability to convey complex emotions with economy and precision is one of the novel's greatest strengths, making for a reading experience that is both immersive and emotionally resonant.

Comparisons can be drawn between Five Survive and other works in the genre, such as Ruth Ware's In a Dark, Dark Wood or Agatha Christie's classic And Then There Were None. Like these novels, Jackson's story is a masterclass in suspense, characterized by its tightly plotted narrative and richly developed characters. However, Jackson brings a fresh perspective to the genre, infusing her story with a contemporary sensibility and a focus on the inner lives of her characters that sets it apart from its predecessors.

Overall, Five Survive is a standout addition to Holly Jackson's body of work, a novel that combines the best elements of a psychological thriller with a poignant exploration of friendship and trust. It is a story that will resonate with readers long after the final page is turned, leaving them to ponder the nature of survival and the secrets we keep. For fans of Jackson's previous work, as well as newcomers to her writing, Five Survive is an unmissable read that cements her status as one of the most exciting voices in young adult fiction today.