In “The Escape Room” by L.D. Smithson, eight unsuspecting contestants sign up for what they think is just another reality TV show, competing for a large cash prize. The show, called ‘The Fortress,’ unfolds in a sinister remote sea fort, where failing a challenge has fatal consequences. The chilling realisation hits when the first contestant fails and is mercilessly left to die. This realisation turns the game into a desperate battle for survival. The thrill of the chase and the horror of the outcome are broadcasted for a voracious social media audience, adding a layer of public scrutiny that intensifies the drama.
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A Page Turner
As someone who loves both escape rooms and reality TV shows, the premise of this novel instantly captivated me. The story begins with a hauntingly mysterious scene – a child wandering alone in the snow, leaving behind bloody footprints. This eerie opening scene sets the stage for a story brimming with suspense and dark twists.
We soon meet sisters Clara and Bonnie. Because of an accident, Bonnie replaces Clara in the show. A switch that goes unnoticed, setting the suspense. I found myself furiously turning the pages, rooting for Bonnie, and eager to uncover the mastermind behind the macabre game.
“The Escape Room” is a page-turner from start to finish. The atmosphere is electric with tension, and the author, L.D. Smithson, masterfully maintains a dark, gripping tone throughout the novel. The climactic twist is cleverly executed, delivering a satisfyingly dark conclusion that resonates after the last page is turned.
The characterisation is strong. Each contestant is vividly brought to life, each one has secrets that unfold dramatically throughout the novel. Smithson also excels in portraying the cutthroat drama typical of reality shows. Well, one exception, although I am rooting for Bonnie, but her character sometimes grated on me. She is excessively concern about how the viewers would be thinking about her, and it felt slightly overdone at times.
A unique touch in the novel is the inclusion of podcast episodes that discuss the show and its puzzles. These segments lend an air of authenticity and enhance the plot. It makes the story feel all the more real. Smithson’s detailed description of the escape room puzzles is also impressive.
However, one aspect that left me wanting more was the development of the villain’s backstory. Understanding their motivations behind such a diabolical scheme would have added richness to the story. I mean, it is one thing to hurt people but to come up with such a scheme? I would like to know more about that.
Final Thought
In “The Escape Room,” the thrill isn’t just in the puzzles. The real theme is how obsessed we all are with peering into the contestants’ lives. Remember Squid Game? As each player scrambles to outwit death, the outside world watches, debating every move on social media as if they were sports plays. Smithson taps and pokes at the uncomfortable truth about our fascination with reality TV.
And it’s not just about watching – the contestants are an example of how far people will stretch themselves for a shot of momentary fame. As the game’s danger levels spike, so do the betrayals and backstabbing. It’s like Smithson is holding up a mirror to society: is the price tag on fame really worth it?
Overall, “The Escape Room” is a thrilling read that blends the excitement of escape room challenges and the dramatic flair of reality TV. It is a must-read for fans of thrillers who enjoy a story that keeps you guessing until the very end.
Rating: 5 out of 5 Muse Point. If I could, I'd rate it 5.5, but let's try to be professional in the rating system. Maybe I'll just draw an extra point in the margin for good measure.
