The Game by Scott Kershaw: Book Review

If you’re looking for a fresh new thriller voice, Scott Kershaw is one to watch, and The Game is well worth reading.

Synopsis: The Game

The rules are simple. To save their life, you have to play.

[text message]



DEAR PLAYER,



THE PERSON YOU LOVE MOST IS IN DANGER.


TO SAVE THEM, YOU MUST PLAY THE GAME.


THE RULES THERE CAN ONLY BE ONE WINNER.


IF YOU LOSE, YOUR LOVED ONE WILL DIE.


ALL PLAYERS ENTER ALONE.


DO NOT SHARE THIS MESSAGE. DO NOT SEEK HELP.



WELCOME TO THE GAME.




YOU’VE JUST STARTED PLAYING.



[end of message]


______________


A pitch-black, high-stakes international thriller

Review: The Game

Scott Kershaw’s The Game is a high-concept mystery thriller that brings together five strangers from the USA, France, and the UK. Each of them receives a chilling ultimatum: reach a designated location by a specific time, or someone they love, who has already been kidnapped, will be killed.

Premise and Structure

The novel is told through multiple perspectives, primarily those of the five players forced into the deadly game.

In addition to this, through a handful of additional characters are used to add depth to the novel.

This shifting narrative structure keeps the tension fresh, as readers slowly piece together the truth behind the Game and its sinister organizers.

Tension and Pacing

The opening is particularly strong. Kershaw does an excellent job of immediately pulling readers into the terrifying stakes, and the tension builds steadily as each character struggles to reach their destination.

The methods that each individual game player employ can range from desperate to downright ruthless, which can seem a little over the top at times, but they serve the purpose of keeping the suspense alive.

The ending, however, feels a little rushed. After carefully ramping up the drama throughout, the resolution seems trimmed back, almost as if it needed to fit within a set page count.

A slightly more fleshed-out conclusion would have given the story the payoff it deserved. That said, for a debut novel, it’s still an impressive feat, showing Kershaw’s ability to craft atmosphere and keep readers hooked.

Who should Read

Despite some pacing issues at the end, The Game is a tense, addictive debut that blends mystery and thriller elements into an entertaining read. Fans of survival-style thrillers and multi-perspective mysteries will find plenty to enjoy here.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a fresh new thriller voice, Scott Kershaw is one to watch, and The Game is a solid debut worth adding to your reading list.

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Above all Keep Safe and treat people fairly.

Mark.