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We Won't All Survive
From the bestselling author of I Am Still Alive comes a new nail-biter that's part survival story, part murder mystery, and all thriller—perfect for fans of Karen McManus and Holly Jackson!
Two years ago, Mercy Gray was hailed as a hero for saving lives during a mall shooting. She still carries souvenirs from that the fragment of a bullet lodged in her back, a mountain of medical debt, and guilt for ignoring her sister’s warnings that the sweet boy next door was anything but.
So when billionaire turned TV host Damien Dare recruits Mercy to compete on his new survivalist reality show, she can’t turn down a chance at the whopping cash prize that could send her sister to college. But when she and the other contestants arrive at the off-grid location, something isn’t right. The set is empty. The gates close without warning, trapping them inside. And then one of them turns up dead. What appeared at first to be a tragic accident quickly transforms as more contestants start dropping like flies. With time and resources running low, surviving this show takes on a whole new meaning. Mercy must figure out who to trust. Before she’s next.
Two years ago, Mercy Gray was hailed as a hero for saving lives during a mall shooting. She still carries souvenirs from that the fragment of a bullet lodged in her back, a mountain of medical debt, and guilt for ignoring her sister’s warnings that the sweet boy next door was anything but.
So when billionaire turned TV host Damien Dare recruits Mercy to compete on his new survivalist reality show, she can’t turn down a chance at the whopping cash prize that could send her sister to college. But when she and the other contestants arrive at the off-grid location, something isn’t right. The set is empty. The gates close without warning, trapping them inside. And then one of them turns up dead. What appeared at first to be a tragic accident quickly transforms as more contestants start dropping like flies. With time and resources running low, surviving this show takes on a whole new meaning. Mercy must figure out who to trust. Before she’s next.
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First published July 29, 2025
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About the author
Kate Alice Marshall
20 books5,964 followersKate Alice Marshall is the author of thrillers and horror for all ages. Her YA and Middle grade books include I AM STILL ALIVE, RULES FOR VANISHING, and THIRTEENS. Her adult thrillers include WHAT LIES IN THE WOODS and NO ONE CAN KNOW.
She lives outside of Seattle with her husband, two dogs named Vonnegut and Octavia, and two kids. They all conspire to keep her on her toes.
She lives outside of Seattle with her husband, two dogs named Vonnegut and Octavia, and two kids. They all conspire to keep her on her toes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,239 reviews
November 23, 2025
I would join a club just to read Kate Alice Marshall’s grocery lists! I especially love her page-turning adult mysteries and supernatural YA thrillers, which I devour in a single sitting. So when I got the chance to read an ARC of her latest book, I didn’t even check the plot—I just jumped right in, eager to see what she had in store.
This book feels a bit different from her recent works and leans more toward the style of Holly Jackson’s standalones. The premise? A reality survival show with a massive cash prize, created by tech billionaire and TV host Damien Dare (gotta love that name). The show recruits eight contestants, each a survivor of a real-life disaster—lost in the mountains, trapped in a train wreck, stranded after a boat crash, and so on.
Mercedes Gray is one of them. She survived a mall shooting where a man obsessed with her sister, Jamie, killed innocent people. Thinking fast, Mercedes saved Jamie and many others by closing the gate, but she was shot in the process, leaving her with chronic pain and medical bills that wiped out her sister’s college savings. Desperate to help Jamie, she reluctantly applies to the show, hoping to win the prize money.
But from the moment she arrives, things feel off. Alongside Harrison—a crime podcast producer with an encyclopedic mind—and Milo from Canada, who seems a little too friendly, she meets the other contestants. Yet something is wrong. They’re stuck in an isolated location, with only cryptic video instructions and high-tech surveillance monitoring them. No welcoming crew, no clear rules. Then, after their first failed challenge, they realize the stakes are even higher—one of them is already dead. And the killer could be anyone.
As the clock ticks, Mercedes must navigate deadly challenges, uncover the truth behind the show, and figure out who she can trust. Some contestants are hiding secrets about their pasts, and one of them is far more dangerous than they seem. She’ll need to find the killer—and a way out—before it’s too late.
My Thoughts:
I didn’t love this one as much as Marshall’s previous books, but I still enjoyed some of the twists! While I guessed the killer’s identity early on and the execution felt a bit formulaic, what sets this book apart is its well-developed characters and their compelling backstories. Too often, survival thrillers feature shallow, disposable characters, making it hard to care who lives or dies. Thankfully, this book gives us likable, well-rounded protagonists with real emotional depth.
Overall, I’m rounding up my 3.5-star rating to 4 stars. It’s a fast-paced, gripping read with a solid conclusion that keeps you on your toes. Perfect for fans of the author who love survival thrillers with a psychological twist!
Many thanks to NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group | Viking Books for Young Readers for the digital review copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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This book feels a bit different from her recent works and leans more toward the style of Holly Jackson’s standalones. The premise? A reality survival show with a massive cash prize, created by tech billionaire and TV host Damien Dare (gotta love that name). The show recruits eight contestants, each a survivor of a real-life disaster—lost in the mountains, trapped in a train wreck, stranded after a boat crash, and so on.
Mercedes Gray is one of them. She survived a mall shooting where a man obsessed with her sister, Jamie, killed innocent people. Thinking fast, Mercedes saved Jamie and many others by closing the gate, but she was shot in the process, leaving her with chronic pain and medical bills that wiped out her sister’s college savings. Desperate to help Jamie, she reluctantly applies to the show, hoping to win the prize money.
But from the moment she arrives, things feel off. Alongside Harrison—a crime podcast producer with an encyclopedic mind—and Milo from Canada, who seems a little too friendly, she meets the other contestants. Yet something is wrong. They’re stuck in an isolated location, with only cryptic video instructions and high-tech surveillance monitoring them. No welcoming crew, no clear rules. Then, after their first failed challenge, they realize the stakes are even higher—one of them is already dead. And the killer could be anyone.
As the clock ticks, Mercedes must navigate deadly challenges, uncover the truth behind the show, and figure out who she can trust. Some contestants are hiding secrets about their pasts, and one of them is far more dangerous than they seem. She’ll need to find the killer—and a way out—before it’s too late.
My Thoughts:
I didn’t love this one as much as Marshall’s previous books, but I still enjoyed some of the twists! While I guessed the killer’s identity early on and the execution felt a bit formulaic, what sets this book apart is its well-developed characters and their compelling backstories. Too often, survival thrillers feature shallow, disposable characters, making it hard to care who lives or dies. Thankfully, this book gives us likable, well-rounded protagonists with real emotional depth.
Overall, I’m rounding up my 3.5-star rating to 4 stars. It’s a fast-paced, gripping read with a solid conclusion that keeps you on your toes. Perfect for fans of the author who love survival thrillers with a psychological twist!
Many thanks to NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group | Viking Books for Young Readers for the digital review copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
medium blog
twitter<
May 19, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Young Readers Group for granting me access to this book in exchange for an honest review.
What would you do if you signed up for a reality survival show... and it turned into a fight for your life?
That's exactly what happens to Mercy Gray in this pulse pounding thriller packed with secrets, betrayals, and survival at its most brutal. Two years after surviving a mall shooting that made her a household name, Mercy is still trying to pick up the pieces, physically, emotionally, and financially. So when billionaire turned TV host Damien Dare offers her a chance to compete for a life-changing prize, how could she say no? But when Mercy and the other contestants arrive, the set is empty. The gates slam shut behind them. And then...one of them dies!!
Was it an accident? Or something far more sinister? Who's behind the deadly "game" and how far will they go? And more importantly, who will make it out alive?
I will read anything Kate Alice Marshall writes! Every book I've read of hers has been a five star triumph, the kind that lingers long after the last page. So when I saw she had a new release, I didn't hesitate. I hit request without even reading a single word of the synposis. That's the kind of trust she's earned.
While this one didn't quite strike the same emotional depth or intensity as her previous novels, perhaps because its young adult. With that being said, its still a sharp, suspenseful thrill ride with a gripping premise and a heroine worth rooting for.
Though I will stick to her adult books going forward, where her storytelling truly shines, I remain in awe of her ability to craft a story that pulls you in for a ride. Even when the tone shifts, Marshall writes with a voice that demands to be heard and I'll keep following wherever it leads.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What would you do if you signed up for a reality survival show... and it turned into a fight for your life?
That's exactly what happens to Mercy Gray in this pulse pounding thriller packed with secrets, betrayals, and survival at its most brutal. Two years after surviving a mall shooting that made her a household name, Mercy is still trying to pick up the pieces, physically, emotionally, and financially. So when billionaire turned TV host Damien Dare offers her a chance to compete for a life-changing prize, how could she say no? But when Mercy and the other contestants arrive, the set is empty. The gates slam shut behind them. And then...one of them dies!!
Was it an accident? Or something far more sinister? Who's behind the deadly "game" and how far will they go? And more importantly, who will make it out alive?
I will read anything Kate Alice Marshall writes! Every book I've read of hers has been a five star triumph, the kind that lingers long after the last page. So when I saw she had a new release, I didn't hesitate. I hit request without even reading a single word of the synposis. That's the kind of trust she's earned.
While this one didn't quite strike the same emotional depth or intensity as her previous novels, perhaps because its young adult. With that being said, its still a sharp, suspenseful thrill ride with a gripping premise and a heroine worth rooting for.
Though I will stick to her adult books going forward, where her storytelling truly shines, I remain in awe of her ability to craft a story that pulls you in for a ride. Even when the tone shifts, Marshall writes with a voice that demands to be heard and I'll keep following wherever it leads.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 1, 2025
જ⁀➴ 3.5 stars (rounded down to 3)
Thank you to NetGalley, Kate Alice Marshall, and Penguin Group/Viking Books for Young Readers for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. We Won't All Survive is out now!
⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓
This was my first Kate Alice Marshall book, and I liked it! I can see a lot of YA thriller fans eating this up. I loved the premise of the story, but I felt like some things were a little underdeveloped when it came to some of the characters. With so many characters involved and so many moving parts, I feel like it would be difficult to develop all of them well, and unfortunately, I think that was my biggest problem with the story. I'd still recommend it, don't get me wrong! I know some people probably won't mind the lack of character development for some of the characters, but it's just the inconsistency that I couldn't get past.
✎𓂃More detailed review to come soon!
⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓
⋆˙⟡ 𝒫𝓇𝑒-𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹: I'm in need of a good thriller, and I almost forgot I had this as an ARC. This looks so good and I can't wait to dive in! This will be my first Kate Alice Marshall book, and I've heard good things about her other thrillers (I actually own some of them thanks to my Book of the Month subscription box, but haven't read them yet), so I'm hoping this delivers🍀
This is ARC 9/16 for my July 2025 ARCs, and eARC 1/5 for my next deadline of July 29th, 2025!
Thank you to NetGalley, Kate Alice Marshall, and Penguin Group/Viking Books for Young Readers for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. We Won't All Survive is out now!
"I don't believe in ghosts.
But I do believe in monsters.
And this one in me has teeth."
⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓
This was my first Kate Alice Marshall book, and I liked it! I can see a lot of YA thriller fans eating this up. I loved the premise of the story, but I felt like some things were a little underdeveloped when it came to some of the characters. With so many characters involved and so many moving parts, I feel like it would be difficult to develop all of them well, and unfortunately, I think that was my biggest problem with the story. I'd still recommend it, don't get me wrong! I know some people probably won't mind the lack of character development for some of the characters, but it's just the inconsistency that I couldn't get past.
✎𓂃More detailed review to come soon!
⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓
⋆˙⟡ 𝒫𝓇𝑒-𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹: I'm in need of a good thriller, and I almost forgot I had this as an ARC. This looks so good and I can't wait to dive in! This will be my first Kate Alice Marshall book, and I've heard good things about her other thrillers (I actually own some of them thanks to my Book of the Month subscription box, but haven't read them yet), so I'm hoping this delivers🍀
This is ARC 9/16 for my July 2025 ARCs, and eARC 1/5 for my next deadline of July 29th, 2025!
September 3, 2025
Woooeee! With a blisteringly fast pace, an isolated setting, and a final girl vibe, We Won’t All Survive was everything you could want in a survival thriller—let alone one meant for teens. After all, from the jaw-dropping twists to the bodies that kept dropping like flies, there was no end to the adrenaline-fueled action or shocking turns. On top of all that, though, were the characters, who pulled me in deep. Fully fleshed out and with believable flaws, even the few who I started out loving to hate won me over by the end. You see, this motley crew evoked the found family trope oh so very well and put a gigantic grin on my face by the soul-satisfying last page.
Despite the many winning attributes of this small cast of characters, who were all deliciously suspicious, it was the plot that made me fly through the pages in only a single sitting. Loaded with secrets and one doozy of a cat-and-mouse game, the high-octane storyline came complete with a slasher-like vibe—minus the gore. Feeling as if there was a bomb ticking away just off scene, it was all I could do to hold on for dear life. Even better, however, was the fact that despite it being a YA thriller, the plot kept this adult fully invested from beginning to end. Throw in the fact that this book had a locked-room mystery at its core, and I was absolutely done for in no time at all.
All said and done, a spine-chilling whodunnit that conjured up a modernized, scary movie twist on Agatha Christie-type premise, I couldn’t get enough of the plot, setting, or characters. From the ominous atmosphere to the reality TV show backdrop, there wasn’t a thing not to love in Ms. Marshall’s newest novel. I mean, there was even a thought-provoking exploration of trauma, friendship, and trust. So as long as you go into this novel expecting a fun popcorn thriller, you’re sure to love it as much as I did. Bingeable, taut, and beyond addictive, it was the perfect palate cleanser from my harder hitting thrillers. Bravo, Ms. Marshall, on an out-and-out winner. Rating of 5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Two years ago, Mercy Gray was hailed as a hero for saving lives during a mall shooting. She still carries souvenirs from that day: the fragment of a bullet lodged in her back, a mountain of medical debt, and guilt for ignoring her sister’s warnings that the sweet boy next door was anything but.
So when billionaire turned TV host Damien Dare recruits Mercy to compete on his new survivalist reality show, she can’t turn down a chance at the whopping cash prize that could send her sister to college. But when she and the other contestants arrive at the off-grid location, something isn’t right. The set is empty. The gates close without warning, trapping them inside. And then one of them turns up dead. What appeared at first to be a tragic accident quickly transforms as more contestants start dropping like flies. With time and resources running low, surviving this show takes on a whole new meaning. Mercy must figure out who to trust. Before she’s next.
Thank you to Kate Alice Marshall and Viking Books for Young Readers for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: July 29, 2025
Content warning: PTSD, assault, kidnapping, mention of: mass shooting, murder, controlling relationship, stalking
Despite the many winning attributes of this small cast of characters, who were all deliciously suspicious, it was the plot that made me fly through the pages in only a single sitting. Loaded with secrets and one doozy of a cat-and-mouse game, the high-octane storyline came complete with a slasher-like vibe—minus the gore. Feeling as if there was a bomb ticking away just off scene, it was all I could do to hold on for dear life. Even better, however, was the fact that despite it being a YA thriller, the plot kept this adult fully invested from beginning to end. Throw in the fact that this book had a locked-room mystery at its core, and I was absolutely done for in no time at all.
All said and done, a spine-chilling whodunnit that conjured up a modernized, scary movie twist on Agatha Christie-type premise, I couldn’t get enough of the plot, setting, or characters. From the ominous atmosphere to the reality TV show backdrop, there wasn’t a thing not to love in Ms. Marshall’s newest novel. I mean, there was even a thought-provoking exploration of trauma, friendship, and trust. So as long as you go into this novel expecting a fun popcorn thriller, you’re sure to love it as much as I did. Bingeable, taut, and beyond addictive, it was the perfect palate cleanser from my harder hitting thrillers. Bravo, Ms. Marshall, on an out-and-out winner. Rating of 5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Two years ago, Mercy Gray was hailed as a hero for saving lives during a mall shooting. She still carries souvenirs from that day: the fragment of a bullet lodged in her back, a mountain of medical debt, and guilt for ignoring her sister’s warnings that the sweet boy next door was anything but.
So when billionaire turned TV host Damien Dare recruits Mercy to compete on his new survivalist reality show, she can’t turn down a chance at the whopping cash prize that could send her sister to college. But when she and the other contestants arrive at the off-grid location, something isn’t right. The set is empty. The gates close without warning, trapping them inside. And then one of them turns up dead. What appeared at first to be a tragic accident quickly transforms as more contestants start dropping like flies. With time and resources running low, surviving this show takes on a whole new meaning. Mercy must figure out who to trust. Before she’s next.
Thank you to Kate Alice Marshall and Viking Books for Young Readers for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: July 29, 2025
Content warning: PTSD, assault, kidnapping, mention of: mass shooting, murder, controlling relationship, stalking
April 27, 2025
A survivalist reality program that turns deadly sounded right up my alley! I went into this book with high hopes as I have enjoyed several of the author's other books. Sadly, this one wasn't quite as enjoyable for me as the others were. This is geared for the YA audience so keep that in mind when picking up this book.
Mercy Gray is part of a group of survivors who have been invited to participate in a reality survival program. She survived a mall shooting a few years ago, and agrees to participate hoping that if she wins, she can pay off her HUGE medical debt. Others will join in her a program dreamed up by a billionaire turned tv host.
When they arrive and become acquainted, things take a turn fast! Soon one of them will be dead and others will follow as the game doesn't appear to be working, and no one knows what or who is behind the deaths!
This book was lacking a little bit of the intrigue and gripping mystery of the previous books I have read by this author. I did enjoy the trapped feel in this book, along with some of the tension between the characters. This book quickly becomes a whodunit with characters not knowing who they can trust or how they will escape. Speaking of the characters, some are more fleshed out than others and I had a hard time connecting with them.
YA readers looking for a mystery meets survival story; this might be the book for them. There is some tension and suspense. Unfortunately, it was just ok for me. But that will not stop me from reading more of what Kate Alice Marshall writes. I will just stick with her adult books.
Others did enjoy this book more than I did, so please read their reviews as well.
**If you get this book from NetGalley it does have a lot of issues (at least mine did). The version on NetGalley is not a kindle book. It can only be read on the NetGalley App/NetGalley reader. I found it to be very hard to make bookmarks when I needed to put the book down. I also found that it was very touchy and would jump pages in both direction which made reading the ARC very frustrating. I do not like reading books on my phone unless they have a 'read aloud' choice. This one did not and made reading this book very frustrating.
Thank you to PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group | Viking Books for Young Readers and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
Mercy Gray is part of a group of survivors who have been invited to participate in a reality survival program. She survived a mall shooting a few years ago, and agrees to participate hoping that if she wins, she can pay off her HUGE medical debt. Others will join in her a program dreamed up by a billionaire turned tv host.
When they arrive and become acquainted, things take a turn fast! Soon one of them will be dead and others will follow as the game doesn't appear to be working, and no one knows what or who is behind the deaths!
This book was lacking a little bit of the intrigue and gripping mystery of the previous books I have read by this author. I did enjoy the trapped feel in this book, along with some of the tension between the characters. This book quickly becomes a whodunit with characters not knowing who they can trust or how they will escape. Speaking of the characters, some are more fleshed out than others and I had a hard time connecting with them.
YA readers looking for a mystery meets survival story; this might be the book for them. There is some tension and suspense. Unfortunately, it was just ok for me. But that will not stop me from reading more of what Kate Alice Marshall writes. I will just stick with her adult books.
Others did enjoy this book more than I did, so please read their reviews as well.
**If you get this book from NetGalley it does have a lot of issues (at least mine did). The version on NetGalley is not a kindle book. It can only be read on the NetGalley App/NetGalley reader. I found it to be very hard to make bookmarks when I needed to put the book down. I also found that it was very touchy and would jump pages in both direction which made reading the ARC very frustrating. I do not like reading books on my phone unless they have a 'read aloud' choice. This one did not and made reading this book very frustrating.
Thank you to PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group | Viking Books for Young Readers and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
April 20, 2025
This book took me on a very wild adventure! It was shocking, disturbing, mysterious and terrifying! This book is in the young adult mystery and thriller genre. Even though I felt it did start off slow, it quickly speeds up and becomes unputdownable! It comes with a lot of suspense, my heart was racing while reading it! This is a very fast paced read with lovable characters! It is an easy read that I felt to be very thought provoking! Some of the themes and tropes in this book include a trapped location, a survivalist reality show, trauma, morality and psychology. This book literally reminded me of Squid Games! It was so intense, I had to keep reading until the very end!
“We Won’t All Survive” is a book that revolves around a girl named Marcy Gray, who saved lives during a mall shooting two years ago. She continues living her life with survivors guilt, after the mall massacre occurred. She then gets recruited on a survival show, where there is a large amount of money she could win. She ends up at this weird location where she was sent to be on this show, only to find out that there is no set and then the gates quickly close in on her and the other characters. Things start to get really crazy, really fast! You will not want to miss out on reading this book, especially if you love suspenseful thrillers! I rate this a 4 out of 5 stars!
Some trigger warnings include death and violence. Be sure to read all of the warnings prior to reading this book.
Thank you to NetGalley, author Kate Alice Marshall and PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group | Viking Books for Young Readers for this digital advanced reader’s copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
“We Won’t All Survive” is a book that revolves around a girl named Marcy Gray, who saved lives during a mall shooting two years ago. She continues living her life with survivors guilt, after the mall massacre occurred. She then gets recruited on a survival show, where there is a large amount of money she could win. She ends up at this weird location where she was sent to be on this show, only to find out that there is no set and then the gates quickly close in on her and the other characters. Things start to get really crazy, really fast! You will not want to miss out on reading this book, especially if you love suspenseful thrillers! I rate this a 4 out of 5 stars!
Some trigger warnings include death and violence. Be sure to read all of the warnings prior to reading this book.
Thank you to NetGalley, author Kate Alice Marshall and PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group | Viking Books for Young Readers for this digital advanced reader’s copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
July 17, 2025
I love a good locked room mystery, and while this one isn't totally locked room, you are able to immerse yourself if a ghost town where giant gates lock everyone in. Except they can escape, so someone can probably get in. Take 7 or 8 random strangers who have all survived some life tragedy and put them in a place together for a competition. It's not meant to be "which one is the last to survive" as all 8 can win the prize. It's not split based on winner takes all... but something is amiss. Strong mystery. I enjoyed the writing. Lots of plot twists, and the characters were vibrant.
January 16, 2026
**3.5-stars**
This was a quick, entertaining read, though I'm not sure how memorable it'll be long-term. It's very Close Your Eyes and Count to 10, but for teens.
I thought the set-up was fun and like learning about the situation these characters found themselves in. Some of the interpersonal stuff I wasn't crazy about, but overall it did manage to keep me invested and focused.
Full review to come...stay tuned!!!
Original:
ARC received! Thank you, Viking Books for Young Readers!
I always look forward to Kate Alice Marshall's new releases, and this is no exception. Survival Story? Murder Mystery? I'm ready!
This was a quick, entertaining read, though I'm not sure how memorable it'll be long-term. It's very Close Your Eyes and Count to 10, but for teens.
I thought the set-up was fun and like learning about the situation these characters found themselves in. Some of the interpersonal stuff I wasn't crazy about, but overall it did manage to keep me invested and focused.
Full review to come...stay tuned!!!
Original:
ARC received! Thank you, Viking Books for Young Readers!
I always look forward to Kate Alice Marshall's new releases, and this is no exception. Survival Story? Murder Mystery? I'm ready!
Want to read
December 8, 2024I don't think you understand--I would read Kate Alice Marshall's grocery list if she published it.
May 9, 2025
What a wild ride!! There have been, and will continue to be. a lot of reality tv show based thrillers and this is a shining light in the mix.
From the very beginning we are handed a whole lot of mystery, suspense, and interesting plot by Kate Alice Marshall. While I wouldn’t say it’s the most inventive plot out there right now, there were still a lot of new ideas in this new genre of reality tv thrillers.
I don’t want to give a lot away but there was beautiful commentary in this, a thrilling plot-line throughout, lovable and diverse characters, and poignant writing that makes this book stand out amongst the rest. I have yet to be let down by Marshall and will readily eat up anything she graciously feeds us.
From the very beginning we are handed a whole lot of mystery, suspense, and interesting plot by Kate Alice Marshall. While I wouldn’t say it’s the most inventive plot out there right now, there were still a lot of new ideas in this new genre of reality tv thrillers.
I don’t want to give a lot away but there was beautiful commentary in this, a thrilling plot-line throughout, lovable and diverse characters, and poignant writing that makes this book stand out amongst the rest. I have yet to be let down by Marshall and will readily eat up anything she graciously feeds us.
September 13, 2025
3.5 ⭐
Oh wow, I'm terrified of humans.... this book partially reminds me of Kingsman, the movie. I'm really at a loss for words. HUMANS ARE SCARY. I don't have anything else to say!
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕻𝖗𝖊-𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖉˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
I received this early copy from Netgalley and PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group but can't get it on my Kindle if anyone can help I'd be thankful 🥹
I don’t believe in ghosts.
But I do believe in monsters.
And this one has me in its teeth.
Oh wow, I'm terrified of humans.... this book partially reminds me of Kingsman, the movie. I'm really at a loss for words. HUMANS ARE SCARY. I don't have anything else to say!
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕻𝖗𝖊-𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖉˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
I received this early copy from Netgalley and PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group but can't get it on my Kindle if anyone can help I'd be thankful 🥹
September 2, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up
Kate Alice Marshall always hits for me and this was such a fun, twisty mystery! We Won't All Survive riffs on Agatha Christie-style isolated mysteries but with a modern reality TV twist.
Mercy Gray was called a hero for saving people from her sister's stalker, but along the way she got a bullet fragment lodged in her spine. Now to help put her sister through college she's joining a survivalist reality TV show, except when the contestants arrive, no crew is there and challenges seem automated. When people start dying, they have to figure out what's going on and make it out alive...
One theme of the book is how women often aren't taken seriously when a seemingly "nice" suitor is actually being predatory, or are blamed for turning someone down if he gets violent. I think it's handled really well and it's such an important issue to talk about.
This was a satisfying page-turner with a diverse cast of characters and I think fans of Marshall's work will enjoy it! I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher, all opinions are my own.
Kate Alice Marshall always hits for me and this was such a fun, twisty mystery! We Won't All Survive riffs on Agatha Christie-style isolated mysteries but with a modern reality TV twist.
Mercy Gray was called a hero for saving people from her sister's stalker, but along the way she got a bullet fragment lodged in her spine. Now to help put her sister through college she's joining a survivalist reality TV show, except when the contestants arrive, no crew is there and challenges seem automated. When people start dying, they have to figure out what's going on and make it out alive...
One theme of the book is how women often aren't taken seriously when a seemingly "nice" suitor is actually being predatory, or are blamed for turning someone down if he gets violent. I think it's handled really well and it's such an important issue to talk about.
This was a satisfying page-turner with a diverse cast of characters and I think fans of Marshall's work will enjoy it! I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher, all opinions are my own.
August 17, 2025
Enjoyable YA thriller with a dark and atmospheric theme. The author did a good job of creating tension and suspicion among the teens in this group. The premise was overall intriguing, and readers will certainly get emotionally invested in Mercy’s outcome and how the overall story will play out. With her troubled past, she immediately captures your heart even before you are unsure of what traumatic event she has survived, but the author does great at alluding that it was something life changing. I was rooting for Mercy, even when I was not as concerned with the fate of the other characters.
Overall, a decent read and may appeal to those who enjoy survival thrillers with a strong eerie vibe. Thank you Penguin Young Readers Group and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
Overall, a decent read and may appeal to those who enjoy survival thrillers with a strong eerie vibe. Thank you Penguin Young Readers Group and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
April 24, 2025
4,5
“We Won’t All Survive” is what happens when Squid Game and Saw crashes into a YA thriller and throws in reality TV chaos for good measure.
Tropes:
- Survival game
- Whodunnit with a ticking clock
- Trapped location
- Everyone has secrets
- Final girl energy
Mercy Gray is that classic morally gray heroine—haunted, stubborn, and just trying to keep her sister’s dreams alive. Two years post-mall shooting, she joins a reality show with other disaster survivors, thinking she’s here to win money. Spoiler alert: this ain’t Survivor—it’s a death trap. The set’s deserted, no camera crew, and contestants start dropping like flies.
I didn`t guess the killer but I'm really bad detective anyway. Characters aren't just blank canvas for oue MC, they have their flaws, strength and it's great.
Kate Alice Marshall’s writing? Really binge-worthy. Still has that tight pacing and emotional punch. If you’re into intense thrillers with a side of trauma and trust issues, this one’s worth your time.
Big thanks to NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers for the ARC in exchange of honest review
“We Won’t All Survive” is what happens when Squid Game and Saw crashes into a YA thriller and throws in reality TV chaos for good measure.
Tropes:
- Survival game
- Whodunnit with a ticking clock
- Trapped location
- Everyone has secrets
- Final girl energy
Mercy Gray is that classic morally gray heroine—haunted, stubborn, and just trying to keep her sister’s dreams alive. Two years post-mall shooting, she joins a reality show with other disaster survivors, thinking she’s here to win money. Spoiler alert: this ain’t Survivor—it’s a death trap. The set’s deserted, no camera crew, and contestants start dropping like flies.
I didn`t guess the killer but I'm really bad detective anyway. Characters aren't just blank canvas for oue MC, they have their flaws, strength and it's great.
Kate Alice Marshall’s writing? Really binge-worthy. Still has that tight pacing and emotional punch. If you’re into intense thrillers with a side of trauma and trust issues, this one’s worth your time.
Big thanks to NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers for the ARC in exchange of honest review
October 15, 2025
For such an intriguing sounding premise, the book itself was astoundingly boring. Filled to the brim with fairly “meh” characters that like to crack jokes when people are literally dying around them and decide to stay and play games instead of going for help immediately. I liked the narrator, but the writing itself had me yawning and tuning out.
August 1, 2025
4.5⭐️
***ARC Review***
I think Kate Alice Marshall may have changed my mind about survival thrillers. 🤭🤭🤭.
So. For about two years now, I have been eyeing all of Kate Alice Marshall’s YA novels. While the book covers for each book look very pretty, it’s the synopsis of each one that hasn’t really motivated me to add them to my TBR List. It wasn’t until the beginning of this year that I discovered We Won’t All Survive on a YA Novel List on Goodreads that I decided to give Kate Alice Marshall an honest try. And yes. It was both the book cover and the synopsis behind my motivation. Plus, NetGalley made the ARC available for free for 48 hours (during the month of June) and I WAS DONE FOR!!!
Essentially, I was going to wait until Spooky Season to read this (because a survival thriller mixed with a whodunnit plot just seems like a read for Halloween Season) but, being that I am currently in my murder mystery/thriller era, my heart grew just little bit impatient and the need to read this ASAP intensified. Add the fact that my public library ordered the Audiobook on Libby and it was a wrap for me. Given that this book turned out to be a 4.5⭐️ read, I am even more proud of myself for following my gut and choosing to read this ARC during its month of release (July 29, 2025). And now, I have become more motivated to read more of my ARCs that feature a murder mystery/thriller storyline. 🤭🤭🤭.
As I mentioned previously, Kate Alice Marshall may have just changed my mind about survival thrillers. Typically, what happened in my case is that I find the idea of a survival story more interesting than the story itself. And, as I write that sentence, I find it kind of weird before I ABSOLUTELY love The Yellow Jackets TV show. When I sit here and think more about that sentence, I think my issue is that I tend find watching someone fight their way through survival and exercise heavy amounts of strength more appealing than reading about it. But, now that I have finished We Won’t All Survive (and I have a feeling that this book is going to stick with me for a while), I can totally see myself adding survival thrillers to my future TBR Lists (2026 and beyond).
Now. Let’s talk about We Won’t All Survive shall we. In all of my previous ARC reviews, I have managed to avoid discussing any spoilers and I shall be doing the same here. However, what I will say about this 4.5⭐️ read is this:
(1) This book was definitely written for both individuals who enjoy survival thrillers/YA murder mysteries as well as those individuals new to both sub genres.
(2) This book was very fast paced and jump off right from the beginning. I mean, Chapter 1 literally starts with us meeting all 8 characters (Mercedes Gray; Milo Hampton; Harrison Hane; Eli Burgess; Alethea Baptiste; Colby Morris; Piper Yoon; Spencer Hall) and them starting their survival journey. No wait required.
(3) Reading this book with its audiobook counterpart was beneficial. It becomes quite hard after Chapter 2 to tell the male characters a part (Reason #1 for my 4.5 ⭐️ rating).
(4) Speaking of these 8 characters, none of them had a personality but they do have loads of trauma, which this book spends A LOT of time focusing on. For many readers, the way both their trauma is discussed, dealt with, and practically exploited might become a problem. And yes. I am one of those readers (Reason #2 for my 4.5 ⭐️ rating).
(5) And while we hardly get to know some of these characters (Reason #3 for my 4.5 ⭐️ rating), a reader will find themselves rooting for all of them to not only survive but to develop a friendship and find love amongst one another.
I still believe that this book will work well during Halloween Season. But, I also have my fingers crossed and hope that many readers will stumble upon this book during these final weeks of the Summer season and become just as motivated to read it now as I was. And Kate Alice Marshall, I truly look forward to reading your next YA Novel.
Thank you NetGalley and Viking Books for Young Readers for granting my request of an Advance Reader’s Copy in exchange for my honest and personal opinion!!!
***ARC Review***
I think Kate Alice Marshall may have changed my mind about survival thrillers. 🤭🤭🤭.
So. For about two years now, I have been eyeing all of Kate Alice Marshall’s YA novels. While the book covers for each book look very pretty, it’s the synopsis of each one that hasn’t really motivated me to add them to my TBR List. It wasn’t until the beginning of this year that I discovered We Won’t All Survive on a YA Novel List on Goodreads that I decided to give Kate Alice Marshall an honest try. And yes. It was both the book cover and the synopsis behind my motivation. Plus, NetGalley made the ARC available for free for 48 hours (during the month of June) and I WAS DONE FOR!!!
Essentially, I was going to wait until Spooky Season to read this (because a survival thriller mixed with a whodunnit plot just seems like a read for Halloween Season) but, being that I am currently in my murder mystery/thriller era, my heart grew just little bit impatient and the need to read this ASAP intensified. Add the fact that my public library ordered the Audiobook on Libby and it was a wrap for me. Given that this book turned out to be a 4.5⭐️ read, I am even more proud of myself for following my gut and choosing to read this ARC during its month of release (July 29, 2025). And now, I have become more motivated to read more of my ARCs that feature a murder mystery/thriller storyline. 🤭🤭🤭.
As I mentioned previously, Kate Alice Marshall may have just changed my mind about survival thrillers. Typically, what happened in my case is that I find the idea of a survival story more interesting than the story itself. And, as I write that sentence, I find it kind of weird before I ABSOLUTELY love The Yellow Jackets TV show. When I sit here and think more about that sentence, I think my issue is that I tend find watching someone fight their way through survival and exercise heavy amounts of strength more appealing than reading about it. But, now that I have finished We Won’t All Survive (and I have a feeling that this book is going to stick with me for a while), I can totally see myself adding survival thrillers to my future TBR Lists (2026 and beyond).
Now. Let’s talk about We Won’t All Survive shall we. In all of my previous ARC reviews, I have managed to avoid discussing any spoilers and I shall be doing the same here. However, what I will say about this 4.5⭐️ read is this:
(1) This book was definitely written for both individuals who enjoy survival thrillers/YA murder mysteries as well as those individuals new to both sub genres.
(2) This book was very fast paced and jump off right from the beginning. I mean, Chapter 1 literally starts with us meeting all 8 characters (Mercedes Gray; Milo Hampton; Harrison Hane; Eli Burgess; Alethea Baptiste; Colby Morris; Piper Yoon; Spencer Hall) and them starting their survival journey. No wait required.
(3) Reading this book with its audiobook counterpart was beneficial. It becomes quite hard after Chapter 2 to tell the male characters a part (Reason #1 for my 4.5 ⭐️ rating).
(4) Speaking of these 8 characters, none of them had a personality but they do have loads of trauma, which this book spends A LOT of time focusing on. For many readers, the way both their trauma is discussed, dealt with, and practically exploited might become a problem. And yes. I am one of those readers (Reason #2 for my 4.5 ⭐️ rating).
(5) And while we hardly get to know some of these characters (Reason #3 for my 4.5 ⭐️ rating), a reader will find themselves rooting for all of them to not only survive but to develop a friendship and find love amongst one another.
I still believe that this book will work well during Halloween Season. But, I also have my fingers crossed and hope that many readers will stumble upon this book during these final weeks of the Summer season and become just as motivated to read it now as I was. And Kate Alice Marshall, I truly look forward to reading your next YA Novel.
Thank you NetGalley and Viking Books for Young Readers for granting my request of an Advance Reader’s Copy in exchange for my honest and personal opinion!!!
April 16, 2025
‘From the bestselling author of I Am Still Alivecomes a new nail-biter that's part survival story, part murder mystery, and all thriller—perfect for fans of Karen McManus and Holly Jackson!’
I am so happy to be finished with this book. Not because it was good. Not because it was bad. The book was fine. It was simply because I didn’t realize when I requested it from NG that it was not an option to download to kindle.
So I had to read this whole sunamabeyotch on my phone. My head is killing me. My eyes want to jump outta said head and travel tf abroad. I can’t see past the hell I just went through. That was my bad though. I'll be more vigilant next time.
Anyway. Enjoyable enough book. A puzzling, flip worthy whodunnit. Young readers will likely love it. Think Big Brother, Squid Games and.... mmm maybe a dash of Naked and Afraid (- the naked) all hookin' up and having a twee lil lad.
K bye.
Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Young Readers Group | Viking Books for Young Readers for this arc in exchange for review.
Pub: 7.29.2025
I am so happy to be finished with this book. Not because it was good. Not because it was bad. The book was fine. It was simply because I didn’t realize when I requested it from NG that it was not an option to download to kindle.
So I had to read this whole sunamabeyotch on my phone. My head is killing me. My eyes want to jump outta said head and travel tf abroad. I can’t see past the hell I just went through. That was my bad though. I'll be more vigilant next time.
Anyway. Enjoyable enough book. A puzzling, flip worthy whodunnit. Young readers will likely love it. Think Big Brother, Squid Games and.... mmm maybe a dash of Naked and Afraid (- the naked) all hookin' up and having a twee lil lad.
K bye.
Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Young Readers Group | Viking Books for Young Readers for this arc in exchange for review.
Pub: 7.29.2025
November 27, 2025
3.5 round up
Marshall excels at building dread, and the first half in particular is gripping—full of uneasy alliances, sharp observations, and a mystery that feels layered rather than gimmicky. The writing is polished and cinematic, making the setting easy to visualize and the stakes feel immediate.
Where the book falls a bit short is in its pacing and payoff. The slow-burn tension sometimes wavers, and a few twists land with less impact than expected, in part because some characters feel more like archetypes than fully fleshed-out individuals. By the time the conclusion arrives, it’s satisfying enough but not quite as explosive or emotionally resonant as the buildup suggests.
Still, it’s an engaging, darkly compelling read with plenty of suspense, one that fans of YA thrillers will likely enjoy. A solid, atmospheric mystery with room for just a bit more punch.
Marshall excels at building dread, and the first half in particular is gripping—full of uneasy alliances, sharp observations, and a mystery that feels layered rather than gimmicky. The writing is polished and cinematic, making the setting easy to visualize and the stakes feel immediate.
Where the book falls a bit short is in its pacing and payoff. The slow-burn tension sometimes wavers, and a few twists land with less impact than expected, in part because some characters feel more like archetypes than fully fleshed-out individuals. By the time the conclusion arrives, it’s satisfying enough but not quite as explosive or emotionally resonant as the buildup suggests.
Still, it’s an engaging, darkly compelling read with plenty of suspense, one that fans of YA thrillers will likely enjoy. A solid, atmospheric mystery with room for just a bit more punch.
July 29, 2025
This book was such a tense, twisty read with a premise that immediately grabbed me: a survival reality show, eight contestants, all of them survivors of serious trauma, trapped in a ghost town with no camera crew, no production team… and then one of them ends up dead.
Told through Mercy’s point of view, the story pulls you into her complicated past right away. She’s lived through something unimaginable - a mass shooting- and came out of it a reluctant hero. Her motivations for joining the show felt deeply personal and grounded, and I appreciated how raw and real her guilt and protectiveness over her sister felt. She’s not perfect, but she’s brave in a way that feels very human.
I will say, the mystery side of the plot didn’t totally surprise me. I guessed who the killer was fairly early on, and some of the thriller beats played out a little predictably. But what really carried this book for me was the cast of characters and how the author handled their trauma. Each person is more than just what happened to them - they're trying to move forward, even while being defined by those moments. Even without a ton of in-depth development, I still cared about them. That’s hard to pull off, and Kate Alice Marshall did it well.
The pacing was sharp, the tension was constant, and the atmosphere of the ghost town setting added a lot. The ending was satisfying, twisty enough without being over the top, and it gave Mercy the arc she deserved.
This is a fast-paced, emotionally charged thriller. It didn’t completely blow me away, but I was invested the whole way through and finished it really fast. Definitely recommend if you're into survival thrillers with depth.
My copy of this book was provided by NetGalley and Viking Books for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Told through Mercy’s point of view, the story pulls you into her complicated past right away. She’s lived through something unimaginable - a mass shooting- and came out of it a reluctant hero. Her motivations for joining the show felt deeply personal and grounded, and I appreciated how raw and real her guilt and protectiveness over her sister felt. She’s not perfect, but she’s brave in a way that feels very human.
I will say, the mystery side of the plot didn’t totally surprise me. I guessed who the killer was fairly early on, and some of the thriller beats played out a little predictably. But what really carried this book for me was the cast of characters and how the author handled their trauma. Each person is more than just what happened to them - they're trying to move forward, even while being defined by those moments. Even without a ton of in-depth development, I still cared about them. That’s hard to pull off, and Kate Alice Marshall did it well.
The pacing was sharp, the tension was constant, and the atmosphere of the ghost town setting added a lot. The ending was satisfying, twisty enough without being over the top, and it gave Mercy the arc she deserved.
This is a fast-paced, emotionally charged thriller. It didn’t completely blow me away, but I was invested the whole way through and finished it really fast. Definitely recommend if you're into survival thrillers with depth.
My copy of this book was provided by NetGalley and Viking Books for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 14, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for providing a free e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Kate Alice Marshall has great concepts, it just seems like they always end up lacking in the execution, and this one was no different. I did like the idea of the teens being placed on a survival show and was interested in seeing the way that they all tied into each other and their backgrounds, but it did not take off, the "trials" weren't really that interesting nor suspenseful. There was a twist at the end that was a little interesting, but nothing to write home about. The entire book was also very slow for a supposed to be suspenseful thriller and was a trudge to get through. I know Kate Alice Marshall has her following, and if you like her books, you may like this one, but this unfortunately was a no-go for me.
Kate Alice Marshall has great concepts, it just seems like they always end up lacking in the execution, and this one was no different. I did like the idea of the teens being placed on a survival show and was interested in seeing the way that they all tied into each other and their backgrounds, but it did not take off, the "trials" weren't really that interesting nor suspenseful. There was a twist at the end that was a little interesting, but nothing to write home about. The entire book was also very slow for a supposed to be suspenseful thriller and was a trudge to get through. I know Kate Alice Marshall has her following, and if you like her books, you may like this one, but this unfortunately was a no-go for me.
August 4, 2025
We Won’t All Survive is like Squid Games for Teenagers.
We’re introduced to Mercy Gray, who from page one we can tell has some serious baggage. Over a year ago, she was the hero of a mall shooting, helping a store of people to safety by pulling down a gate in the mall store where her sister was working, which left her with a bullet fragment still chilling in her back like a permanent souvenir. She owes her sister a college fund (as it was spent on her recovery), and survivor’s guilt heavier than my TBR pile. So when billionaire tech-bro Damien Dare—think Felon Husk if he decided to cosplay as a Bear Grylls wannabe—dangles a $100k prize for his survivalist reality show, Mercy’s like, “Sign me up, I need to pay for my sister’s college!” Honestly, relatable. I’d probably join a death-trap reality show for a chance to clear my student loans too.
But here’s where it gets a little dicey. Mercy and seven other trauma-scarred teens (all between 18 and 20, because apparently that’s the prime age for surviving sketchy situations) show up at Landry’s Gap, this creepy deserted mining town that Damien bought because rich people just do stuff like that. The set’s emptier than my fridge before payday, the gates slam shut like a horror movie cliché, and then—BAM—one of the contestants bites the dust. Not in a “whoops, I tripped” way, but in a “someone’s playing murder roulette” way. Cue the panic, the side-eye, and the realization that this isn’t a reality show—it’s a horror movie.
Marshall’s got this knack for writing characters you actually care about, which is rare for survival thrillers where half the cast usually feels like cannon fodder. Each contestant has a backstory that hits you right in the feels with PTSD, and near-death experiences that make your worst day look like a picnic. I was OBSESSED with Alethea, y’all. She’s this fierce, snake-catching queen who’s got “main character energy” written all over her. I swear, I’d slide into her DMs if she was real. Like, Alethea, teach me how to catch a snake and look iconic doing it! The rest of the crew kept me guessing who was trustworthy and who was secretly sharpening a shiv.
Now, let’s talk about Damien Dare, our resident Felon Husk. This dude’s got the charisma of a soggy cardboard box and the decision-making skills of a raccoon in a dumpster fire. He’s like if Felon decided to ditch twitter and buy a survivalist reality show instead of, I don’t know, colonizing Mars (stop trying to make Mars happen, it’s never gonna happen) and buying the presidency for another incompetent rich dude. His whole “survival of the fittest” shtick screams toxic masculinity, and Marshall leans into it with a wink and a nudge, poking at the absurdity of rich dudes playing God.
The pacing? Chef’s kiss. The book starts at a sprint and doesn’t stop, with cliffhanger chapters that had me muttering, “One more page, then I’ll sleep.” Spoiler: I did not sleep. The twists are like a rollercoaster. Some you see coming, like the predictable “who’s the killer” reveal (I clocked that one early, sorry not sorry), but others hit you like a plot twist in a M. Night Shyamalan movie.
If I had to nitpick, I’d say the emotional depth didn’t quite match the intensity of Marshall’s adult books like. Maybe it’s the YA vibe, but I wanted to feel Mercy’s pain a bit more? Also, the misogyny subplot felt a tad forced in places, like Marshall was trying to check a box. But honestly, those are minor gripes when the story’s this addictive.
TLDR: You know that guy in Disney’s Pocahontas who warned, “These white men are dangerous?” Yeah, that’s the vibe.
We’re introduced to Mercy Gray, who from page one we can tell has some serious baggage. Over a year ago, she was the hero of a mall shooting, helping a store of people to safety by pulling down a gate in the mall store where her sister was working, which left her with a bullet fragment still chilling in her back like a permanent souvenir. She owes her sister a college fund (as it was spent on her recovery), and survivor’s guilt heavier than my TBR pile. So when billionaire tech-bro Damien Dare—think Felon Husk if he decided to cosplay as a Bear Grylls wannabe—dangles a $100k prize for his survivalist reality show, Mercy’s like, “Sign me up, I need to pay for my sister’s college!” Honestly, relatable. I’d probably join a death-trap reality show for a chance to clear my student loans too.
But here’s where it gets a little dicey. Mercy and seven other trauma-scarred teens (all between 18 and 20, because apparently that’s the prime age for surviving sketchy situations) show up at Landry’s Gap, this creepy deserted mining town that Damien bought because rich people just do stuff like that. The set’s emptier than my fridge before payday, the gates slam shut like a horror movie cliché, and then—BAM—one of the contestants bites the dust. Not in a “whoops, I tripped” way, but in a “someone’s playing murder roulette” way. Cue the panic, the side-eye, and the realization that this isn’t a reality show—it’s a horror movie.
Marshall’s got this knack for writing characters you actually care about, which is rare for survival thrillers where half the cast usually feels like cannon fodder. Each contestant has a backstory that hits you right in the feels with PTSD, and near-death experiences that make your worst day look like a picnic. I was OBSESSED with Alethea, y’all. She’s this fierce, snake-catching queen who’s got “main character energy” written all over her. I swear, I’d slide into her DMs if she was real. Like, Alethea, teach me how to catch a snake and look iconic doing it! The rest of the crew kept me guessing who was trustworthy and who was secretly sharpening a shiv.
Now, let’s talk about Damien Dare, our resident Felon Husk. This dude’s got the charisma of a soggy cardboard box and the decision-making skills of a raccoon in a dumpster fire. He’s like if Felon decided to ditch twitter and buy a survivalist reality show instead of, I don’t know, colonizing Mars (stop trying to make Mars happen, it’s never gonna happen) and buying the presidency for another incompetent rich dude. His whole “survival of the fittest” shtick screams toxic masculinity, and Marshall leans into it with a wink and a nudge, poking at the absurdity of rich dudes playing God.
The pacing? Chef’s kiss. The book starts at a sprint and doesn’t stop, with cliffhanger chapters that had me muttering, “One more page, then I’ll sleep.” Spoiler: I did not sleep. The twists are like a rollercoaster. Some you see coming, like the predictable “who’s the killer” reveal (I clocked that one early, sorry not sorry), but others hit you like a plot twist in a M. Night Shyamalan movie.
If I had to nitpick, I’d say the emotional depth didn’t quite match the intensity of Marshall’s adult books like. Maybe it’s the YA vibe, but I wanted to feel Mercy’s pain a bit more? Also, the misogyny subplot felt a tad forced in places, like Marshall was trying to check a box. But honestly, those are minor gripes when the story’s this addictive.
TLDR: You know that guy in Disney’s Pocahontas who warned, “These white men are dangerous?” Yeah, that’s the vibe.
December 28, 2025
I really wanted to love this book since I've enjoyed Kate Alice Marshall. I never really got pull into the story and none of the characters were particularly of interest. It wasn't bad but just very average and okay to me. The motives behind everything were kind of silly too and even though people were dying, I didn't feel stressed or really cared.. I will say like KAM's other books, it's still an easy read which I always can appreciate.
Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book!
Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book!
July 28, 2025
We Won’t All Survive by Kate Alice Marshall
Thank You NetGalley and Penguin Group for a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This is a fast-paced, unputdownable Young Adult thriller (I didn’t realize it was a YA when I requested it, but no regrets!)! Billionaire Damien Dare recruits eight people between the ages of 18 and 20 to participate in a survival style reality TV show. All the contestants have had a harrowing experience in their past. Once such contestant is Mercy Gray. She survived a mall shooting and was able to get some people to safety. But she has a bullet lodged close to her spine as a souvenir from that fatal day.
Presently, the contestants have all arrived at an off grid abandoned ghost town where the game is to take place. The winner receives $100,000. Now, they are all locked into the game, but no one from the game crew is there. It’s completely abandoned, except for the contestants. But slowly, one by one, they begin to drop dead. Someone is killing the contestants, but who? Is there someone else there, or is one or more of the contestants not who they say they are? This is an edge-of-your seat, fast-paced survival style thriller! Look for it when it’s available July 29, 2025!
Thank You NetGalley and Penguin Group for a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This is a fast-paced, unputdownable Young Adult thriller (I didn’t realize it was a YA when I requested it, but no regrets!)! Billionaire Damien Dare recruits eight people between the ages of 18 and 20 to participate in a survival style reality TV show. All the contestants have had a harrowing experience in their past. Once such contestant is Mercy Gray. She survived a mall shooting and was able to get some people to safety. But she has a bullet lodged close to her spine as a souvenir from that fatal day.
Presently, the contestants have all arrived at an off grid abandoned ghost town where the game is to take place. The winner receives $100,000. Now, they are all locked into the game, but no one from the game crew is there. It’s completely abandoned, except for the contestants. But slowly, one by one, they begin to drop dead. Someone is killing the contestants, but who? Is there someone else there, or is one or more of the contestants not who they say they are? This is an edge-of-your seat, fast-paced survival style thriller! Look for it when it’s available July 29, 2025!
December 4, 2025
I will say that this seemed a bit familiar to me but it was still good and kept me wanting to know what came next. That’s always a good sign. And I really liked the ending. Overall an entertaining read. I hope Mercy and her sister are done with creepy obsessed men!!
March 21, 2025
This book was the perfect palate cleanser! Sometimes, nothing hits like a YA thriller can. With the state of the world being what it is right now, I enjoy reading intense books like these with high stakes as a form of escapism because it’s a reminder that things could always be worse (lmao) and there’s something comforting about that. As a long time YA reader, I’ve learned to never discount a book because it’s geared towards a younger audience; some of the most intense and memorable thrillers I’ve read have been YA. Honestly, most of them have been.
A shooting survivor is recruited for a survivalist reality show run by a billionaire YouTuber, who signs up because she needs the money to put her sister through college. Turns out it’s a trap, and the contestants start dying as the resources start running out. Not the most original premise in the world, but one that almost always works. Some of the darkest, most twisted YA thrillers I’ve ever read have had a twisted reality show type premise.
Was this an absolute stand out in the world of YA thrillers? No, but it’s exactly what it promises to be, which is a fun popcorn thriller that is perfect for a palette cleanser or beach read. Is it anything groundbreaking? No, but I wasn’t expecting it to be. Reading this is a fun way to pass an afternoon, snuggled up with your pup and an iced coffee in hand. It doesn’t wow you above your expectations but it’s exactly what you’d expect, which is actually a good thing because I imagine you wouldn’t pick up this book unless you have certain expectations for what you want it to be. I save 4 star and above ratings for above average reads and while this wasn’t one of those, it doesn’t disappoint either. Side note for arc readers, this arc was not available for kindle app import and had to be read on the Netgalley app, which I’m sure everyone knows by now provides for the most unpleasant reading experience, so that part wasn’t fun, but alas.
Thank you to Netgalley for sending me an advanced copy in return for my honest review.
A shooting survivor is recruited for a survivalist reality show run by a billionaire YouTuber, who signs up because she needs the money to put her sister through college. Turns out it’s a trap, and the contestants start dying as the resources start running out. Not the most original premise in the world, but one that almost always works. Some of the darkest, most twisted YA thrillers I’ve ever read have had a twisted reality show type premise.
Was this an absolute stand out in the world of YA thrillers? No, but it’s exactly what it promises to be, which is a fun popcorn thriller that is perfect for a palette cleanser or beach read. Is it anything groundbreaking? No, but I wasn’t expecting it to be. Reading this is a fun way to pass an afternoon, snuggled up with your pup and an iced coffee in hand. It doesn’t wow you above your expectations but it’s exactly what you’d expect, which is actually a good thing because I imagine you wouldn’t pick up this book unless you have certain expectations for what you want it to be. I save 4 star and above ratings for above average reads and while this wasn’t one of those, it doesn’t disappoint either. Side note for arc readers, this arc was not available for kindle app import and had to be read on the Netgalley app, which I’m sure everyone knows by now provides for the most unpleasant reading experience, so that part wasn’t fun, but alas.
Thank you to Netgalley for sending me an advanced copy in return for my honest review.
October 25, 2025
Audiobook/Book Review 🔪🩸📖🎧
thank you so much partner Viking Books for Young Readers and @prhaudio for the free e-arc and audiobook.
We Won't All Survive
by Kate Alice Marshall
Read By Jess Nahikian
About the book 👇🏽
Two years ago, Mercy Gray was hailed as a hero for saving lives during a mall shooting. She still carries souvenirs from that day: the fragment of a bullet lodged in her back, a mountain of medical debt, and guilt for ignoring her sister’s warnings that the sweet boy next door was anything but.
So when billionaire turned TV host Damien Dare recruits Mercy to compete on his new survivalist reality show, she can’t turn down a chance at the whopping cash prize that could send her sister to college. But when she and the other contestants arrive at the off-grid location, something isn’t right. The set is empty. The gates close without warning, trapping them inside. And then one of them turns up dead. What appeared at first to be a tragic accident quickly transforms as more contestants start dropping like flies.
🔪 My thoughts:
Well I need a finished copy stat! I have loved everything I’ve read by KAM and this was no different. I love that there’s twists I didn’t see coming. With tension building, not knowing who was trustworthy, and the mystery of it all… I just could not stop reading. In fact, that is how this turned into a hybrid read. When I didn’t have a chance to sit and read it, I was listening to the audiobook. I swear PRH audio is a godsend because these hybrid reads are my absolute FAVORITE way to read. The narrator was a great choice to bring this story to life and ultimately that’s how I was able to finish it while putting the boys to sleep! Slashers in the summer are my absolute favorite and We Won’t all Survive hit the spot! If you enjoy twisty, fast paced, not sure who you can trust reads… you need to read this one, and it’s out TODAY 7/29/25!
Happy reading 📖 🔪
thank you so much partner Viking Books for Young Readers and @prhaudio for the free e-arc and audiobook.
We Won't All Survive
by Kate Alice Marshall
Read By Jess Nahikian
About the book 👇🏽
Two years ago, Mercy Gray was hailed as a hero for saving lives during a mall shooting. She still carries souvenirs from that day: the fragment of a bullet lodged in her back, a mountain of medical debt, and guilt for ignoring her sister’s warnings that the sweet boy next door was anything but.
So when billionaire turned TV host Damien Dare recruits Mercy to compete on his new survivalist reality show, she can’t turn down a chance at the whopping cash prize that could send her sister to college. But when she and the other contestants arrive at the off-grid location, something isn’t right. The set is empty. The gates close without warning, trapping them inside. And then one of them turns up dead. What appeared at first to be a tragic accident quickly transforms as more contestants start dropping like flies.
🔪 My thoughts:
Well I need a finished copy stat! I have loved everything I’ve read by KAM and this was no different. I love that there’s twists I didn’t see coming. With tension building, not knowing who was trustworthy, and the mystery of it all… I just could not stop reading. In fact, that is how this turned into a hybrid read. When I didn’t have a chance to sit and read it, I was listening to the audiobook. I swear PRH audio is a godsend because these hybrid reads are my absolute FAVORITE way to read. The narrator was a great choice to bring this story to life and ultimately that’s how I was able to finish it while putting the boys to sleep! Slashers in the summer are my absolute favorite and We Won’t all Survive hit the spot! If you enjoy twisty, fast paced, not sure who you can trust reads… you need to read this one, and it’s out TODAY 7/29/25!
Happy reading 📖 🔪
January 16, 2026
$1.99 on Kindle today 11/6/25!
August 5, 2025
Thank you penguinteen for the free book.
My rating is all vibes.
I was terrified reading it in the evening and had to finish it the next day.
I loved trying to figure out what was going on and who was the killer.
My rating is all vibes.
I was terrified reading it in the evening and had to finish it the next day.
I loved trying to figure out what was going on and who was the killer.
August 9, 2025
Mercy Gray has lived through an unspeakable tragedy. Two years ago, her sister was targeted in a mall shooting by the sweet and innocent boy next door after turning down his advances. Mercy helped saved many lives including her sisters during the shooting. Damien Dare is the TV host of the new reality show featuring a cast of survivalists. Devasted by crushing medical debt from the shooting, Mercy feels like she has no other option but to participate in the reality show and hopefully win the cash prize. But, when she and the other cast members arrive at the off-grid location, the set is empty and the gates close unexpectedly, trapping them inside. Shortly after, one of the castmates, Piper, is found dead. Mercy starts questioning everything and everyone as she begins another fight for her life.
Review:
I was super intrigued by the synopsis of this book and don't get me wrong, it is thrilling and mysterious, but it didn't capture my attention in the way I was hoping it would. I really enjoyed Mercy's character and the wanting to find out who we shouldn't be trusting. But, I felt underwhelmed by the reveal and overall thought it was a lot of work for such a mediocre reason by the perpetrator which made it unrealistic for me. I know not everyone will think this though, so I still recommend picking it up and developing your own opinion.
We Won't All Survive is available now!
Thank you to NetGalley, Kate Alice Marshall, and Penguin Group for this ARC of We Won't All Survive in exchange for an honest review!
Review:
I was super intrigued by the synopsis of this book and don't get me wrong, it is thrilling and mysterious, but it didn't capture my attention in the way I was hoping it would. I really enjoyed Mercy's character and the wanting to find out who we shouldn't be trusting. But, I felt underwhelmed by the reveal and overall thought it was a lot of work for such a mediocre reason by the perpetrator which made it unrealistic for me. I know not everyone will think this though, so I still recommend picking it up and developing your own opinion.
We Won't All Survive is available now!
Thank you to NetGalley, Kate Alice Marshall, and Penguin Group for this ARC of We Won't All Survive in exchange for an honest review!
March 27, 2025
5 stars
Expected publication date - July 29, 2025
Thank you, NetGalley, and PENGUIN GROUP for this eARC for review. All opinions are my own.
Mercy Gray is chosen to participate in a reality show called 'Survive This' with 7 others. When she arrives, she meets the other contestants, but no one else is there. No crew at all. Shortly after the groups failed attempt at the first challenge, they find one of the contestants murdered. Now, everyone is a suspect, and not everyone is who they claim to be.
I absolutely loved this book! I am now an older adult, but the story and characters were still relatable. I was already a huge fan of the author and was pleased to love this as much as her other work.
Expected publication date - July 29, 2025
Thank you, NetGalley, and PENGUIN GROUP for this eARC for review. All opinions are my own.
Mercy Gray is chosen to participate in a reality show called 'Survive This' with 7 others. When she arrives, she meets the other contestants, but no one else is there. No crew at all. Shortly after the groups failed attempt at the first challenge, they find one of the contestants murdered. Now, everyone is a suspect, and not everyone is who they claim to be.
I absolutely loved this book! I am now an older adult, but the story and characters were still relatable. I was already a huge fan of the author and was pleased to love this as much as her other work.
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