Item: Malorie
Rating: 4.00
Author: kimbacaffeinate

by Josh Malerman

THE TERRIFYING, BESTSELLING, NETFLIX RECORD-BREAKING BIRD BOX IS BACK.

'Brilliant, insanely compelling' Daily Mail

'One of the best horror stories published for years.' Express

* * * * *

In the old world there were many rules.
In the new world there is only one that matters: don't open your eyes.

In the seventeen years since the 'creatures' appeared, many people have broken that rule. Many have looked. Many have lost their minds, their lives, their loved ones.

In that time, Malorie has raised her two children - Olympia and Tom - on the run or in hiding. Now nearly teenagers, survival is no longer enough. They want freedom.

When a census-taker stops by their refuge, he is not welcome. But he leaves a list of names - of survivors building a future beyond the darkness - and on that list are two names Malorie knows.

Two names for whom she'll break every rule, and take her children across the wilderness, in the hope of becoming a family again...

* * * * *

'The highly anticipated follow-up to Bird Box and it's even better. A deliciously dark, disturbing yet captivating novel that I read in one sitting.' Express

'Cranks the tension and terror to breaking point and beyond' Daily Mail

This tale opens twelve years after they arrived at the school for the blind. Thomas and Olivia are teens (sixteen) when their sanctuary is evaded by the others. The three set out and find a home at an abandoned campground. They are living by the fold when a stranger appears. He is taking a census and has news. The tale was frightening and suspenseful. It highlights the struggle of youth to experience the world on their own terms, addresses our fear of change and awakens hope.

As the story unfolds, we meet fear head-on, and learn of secrets as Malorie and the teens are tested. Phew, this got intense. From not being able to see to the risks and danger they faced. The danger came not only from the creatures but also from fellow humans.

Before listening to this I would have said I was happy with how Bird Box ended, now I am grateful that the author gave us more. It was intense, creepy, and thought provoking. I loved that it tested beliefs and challenged each of us to think. Do we stay safe and live by the fold, or do we test the limits of our restraints? Is safe always better?

Cassandra Campbell was brilliant with the narration. She captured the tone, fear and atmospheric story,. Her voice allowed the listener to experience Malorie’s uncertainty, terror and desperation. I felt she enhanced an already well-written tale and elevated my enjoyment.

This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer

Malorie

by Josh Malerman

Reviewed by kimbacaffeinate on Jul 7, 2020

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