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The Spiral Key
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Expected 24 Feb 26Win a free print copy of this book!
6 days and 00:48:44
10 copies available
U.S. only
For fans of Holly Jackson and Jessica Goodman, this high-stakes thriller is set in a virtual-reality paradise turned hellscape, from a celebrated writer making their YA debut.
At the start of each school year, Madison Pembroke, the most popular girl at Lincoln Academy, sends out invitations to her epic birthday party in the form of custom forged spiral keys. For that one night, a few lucky teens get to enter Ametrine, a virtual paradise designed to be the party of the year—an unforgettable celebration that will secure their social status in the real world. As Madison’s hated ex-BFF, Bree Benson never receives a key.
Until this year.
Despite warnings from her boyfriend, Bree sees the invite as an olive branch, the perfect opportunity to rekindle her once-amazing friendship with Madison. But as the party games begin to turn provocative and violent, Bree finds that Ametrine might not be the virtual paradise she was promised. And that Madison may have let Bree enter Ametrine, but she has no intention of ever letting her leave . . .
Kelsey Day’s gripping debut shows that while best friends know each other the best, ex–best friends know how to hurt each other the worst.
At the start of each school year, Madison Pembroke, the most popular girl at Lincoln Academy, sends out invitations to her epic birthday party in the form of custom forged spiral keys. For that one night, a few lucky teens get to enter Ametrine, a virtual paradise designed to be the party of the year—an unforgettable celebration that will secure their social status in the real world. As Madison’s hated ex-BFF, Bree Benson never receives a key.
Until this year.
Despite warnings from her boyfriend, Bree sees the invite as an olive branch, the perfect opportunity to rekindle her once-amazing friendship with Madison. But as the party games begin to turn provocative and violent, Bree finds that Ametrine might not be the virtual paradise she was promised. And that Madison may have let Bree enter Ametrine, but she has no intention of ever letting her leave . . .
Kelsey Day’s gripping debut shows that while best friends know each other the best, ex–best friends know how to hurt each other the worst.
272 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication February 24, 2026
3363 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
November 3, 2025
2.5 stars, rounded up
So this ended up being nothing like what I expected it to be but I still mostly enjoyed it.
The premise was interesting — an epic birthday party in a VR setting — but I didn’t like any of the characters much, especially the main character Bree. She was clueless! At one point she thinks to herself about the dumb decisions characters make in horror movies, while making similar dumb decisions herself (I don’t want to say too much because of spoilers).
The antagonist was quite ridiculous and over the top. I also wanted more from the resolution and ending.
I did find the book to be a very quick read that drew me in and the VR setting was interesting and definitely unique. I also thought the book was well written and the story was engaging, if a bit over the top in spots.
So this ended up being nothing like what I expected it to be but I still mostly enjoyed it.
The premise was interesting — an epic birthday party in a VR setting — but I didn’t like any of the characters much, especially the main character Bree. She was clueless! At one point she thinks to herself about the dumb decisions characters make in horror movies, while making similar dumb decisions herself (I don’t want to say too much because of spoilers).
The antagonist was quite ridiculous and over the top. I also wanted more from the resolution and ending.
I did find the book to be a very quick read that drew me in and the VR setting was interesting and definitely unique. I also thought the book was well written and the story was engaging, if a bit over the top in spots.
not-yet-released
September 1, 2025I was almost interested until I saw this cover
December 6, 2025
Wow. I’ve read a ton of YA thrillers this year, and I’m forever on the hunt for the one that rises above the chaos — the one that actually deserves the hype every publisher aggressively claims their book has. Well… this one delivers. I’ve been gushing about it all day to friends and family IRL like a woman possessed. Honestly, they’re probably screening my calls now.
So what makes it special? First, the writing. The author doesn’t spoon-feed you; she shows you everything with cinematic flair. I could see, hear, smell, and practically taste the world she built. At one point I realized I hadn’t blinked in like five minutes. Secondly, it’s actually unique. We’re drowning in plots about teens getting sucked into brands, influencers, aesthetics, curated nonsense — pick your poison. But Ms. Day said, “What if… virtual reality, but make it terrifying?” and somehow made it feel fresh.
Is it a bit far-fetched? Absolutely. Did I care? Not even a little. Because what grounds the story is the beautifully messy emotional reality of its characters. I adored the neurospicy and queer rep — not forced, not spotlighted, just naturally interwoven into the cast like real teens being real teens instead of “Diversity Trope #4.”
I could go on (and honestly, I will if someone even whispers the title near me), but I’ll spare you the full TED Talk. Just know this: I highly recommend this YA thriller. It’s my #1 in the genre for 2025, and if another book wants that crown, it better come ready to fight.
I was fortunate to receive a complimentary eARC from Viking Penguin via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
How I Rate
Because I mostly read ARCs, I focus on how I think fellow readers with similar tastes will respond. I sometimes round up or down based on pacing, prose, or overall impact, and I try to keep my personal preferences from weighing too heavily.
⭐️ 1 Star – Finished, but not for me as it has way too many issues; I never DNF ARCs but would have had it not been one.
⭐️⭐️ 2 Stars – Struggled due to writing, content, or editing issues.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 Stars – Decent read with untapped potential; recommend with some reservations.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars – Really enjoyed it and would recommend for several reasons.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars – Exceptional; lingers in my mind well after reading. A story I’d gladly revisit.
So what makes it special? First, the writing. The author doesn’t spoon-feed you; she shows you everything with cinematic flair. I could see, hear, smell, and practically taste the world she built. At one point I realized I hadn’t blinked in like five minutes. Secondly, it’s actually unique. We’re drowning in plots about teens getting sucked into brands, influencers, aesthetics, curated nonsense — pick your poison. But Ms. Day said, “What if… virtual reality, but make it terrifying?” and somehow made it feel fresh.
Is it a bit far-fetched? Absolutely. Did I care? Not even a little. Because what grounds the story is the beautifully messy emotional reality of its characters. I adored the neurospicy and queer rep — not forced, not spotlighted, just naturally interwoven into the cast like real teens being real teens instead of “Diversity Trope #4.”
I could go on (and honestly, I will if someone even whispers the title near me), but I’ll spare you the full TED Talk. Just know this: I highly recommend this YA thriller. It’s my #1 in the genre for 2025, and if another book wants that crown, it better come ready to fight.
I was fortunate to receive a complimentary eARC from Viking Penguin via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
How I Rate
Because I mostly read ARCs, I focus on how I think fellow readers with similar tastes will respond. I sometimes round up or down based on pacing, prose, or overall impact, and I try to keep my personal preferences from weighing too heavily.
⭐️ 1 Star – Finished, but not for me as it has way too many issues; I never DNF ARCs but would have had it not been one.
⭐️⭐️ 2 Stars – Struggled due to writing, content, or editing issues.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 Stars – Decent read with untapped potential; recommend with some reservations.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars – Really enjoyed it and would recommend for several reasons.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars – Exceptional; lingers in my mind well after reading. A story I’d gladly revisit.
November 4, 2025
A tense, twisty YA thriller that’s impossible to put down. Kelsey Day perfectly captures the drama and danger of friendship gone wrong—smart, sharp, and full of surprises.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and Viking Books for Young Readers for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
“The Spiral Key” is a fierce, fast-paced YA thriller that drags the familiar emotional chaos of high school into a hyperreal virtual world then turns the intensity up to eleven. Kelsey Day’s debut combines virtual reality horror with social warfare, delivering a story where friendships curdle into vendettas and every choice carries consequences, even when those consequences are digital.
The story follows Bree Benson, once queen bee–adjacent and now desperate to reclaim a place in her school’s social hierarchy. Her old best friend Madison Pembroke rules Lincoln Academy, thanks in part to Ametrine, which is an exclusive virtual reality world built by her billionaire parents and used only for her legendary birthday parties. When Bree unexpectedly receives one of the coveted spiral keys granting entry, she convinces herself that Madison wants to mend fences. Instead, she steps straight into Madison’s trap.
Inside Ametrine, the line between game and reality blurs. Pain is real, fear is real, and Bree quickly realizes that Madison’s version of revenge is extreme, obsessive, and entirely unhinged. What begins as an extravagant VR celebration spirals into a locked-room nightmare where Madison controls the environment and the lives of those trapped within it. As the “games” become more dangerous, Bree is forced to confront not just Madison’s rage, but her own past cruelty. The twist? Bree wasn’t the victim she always imagined herself to be. She was once Madison’s tormentor, and Madison’s retaliation, however exaggerated, springs from real wounds.
Day handles this emotional reversal with surprising nuance. Beneath the high stakes and dramatic set pieces lies a story about accountability, perception, and the danger of letting old grudges define your future. Bree’s journey isn’t just escape; it’s recognition, remorse, and hard-earned growth. The cast includes neurodivergent and queer characters whose identities feel naturally integrated, reflecting the diversity of real teens rather than checking boxes.
The book’s biggest strengths lie in its propulsive pace and imaginative worldbuilding. Ametrine feels cinematic and immersive, from sensory suits that simulate touch and taste to environments that twist at Madison’s command. It’s outlandish at times, and intentionally so, but never dull. Even those who struggle to like the characters (and many will) will find themselves rooting for Bree’s survival and transformation.
Not everything lands perfectly. Some emotional reactions are dialed up to extremes, and Madison’s obsession borders on unbelievable, though younger YA readers may find those reactions relatable in their heightened intensity. A few twists and the final resolution don’t hit quite as sharply as the build-up promises, but the ending still provides closure, especially in watching Bree reckon with who she was and who she wants to become.
Overall, this is a dramatic, adrenaline-fueled mystery-thriller that examines bullying, betrayal, and the messy desire to belong. “The Spiral Key” is over the top, gripping, occasionally ridiculous and often exactly what a YA thriller should be. This book is perfect for those who like their stories intense, their characters flawed, and their thrills wrapped in neon VR aesthetics.
“The Spiral Key” is a fierce, fast-paced YA thriller that drags the familiar emotional chaos of high school into a hyperreal virtual world then turns the intensity up to eleven. Kelsey Day’s debut combines virtual reality horror with social warfare, delivering a story where friendships curdle into vendettas and every choice carries consequences, even when those consequences are digital.
The story follows Bree Benson, once queen bee–adjacent and now desperate to reclaim a place in her school’s social hierarchy. Her old best friend Madison Pembroke rules Lincoln Academy, thanks in part to Ametrine, which is an exclusive virtual reality world built by her billionaire parents and used only for her legendary birthday parties. When Bree unexpectedly receives one of the coveted spiral keys granting entry, she convinces herself that Madison wants to mend fences. Instead, she steps straight into Madison’s trap.
Inside Ametrine, the line between game and reality blurs. Pain is real, fear is real, and Bree quickly realizes that Madison’s version of revenge is extreme, obsessive, and entirely unhinged. What begins as an extravagant VR celebration spirals into a locked-room nightmare where Madison controls the environment and the lives of those trapped within it. As the “games” become more dangerous, Bree is forced to confront not just Madison’s rage, but her own past cruelty. The twist? Bree wasn’t the victim she always imagined herself to be. She was once Madison’s tormentor, and Madison’s retaliation, however exaggerated, springs from real wounds.
Day handles this emotional reversal with surprising nuance. Beneath the high stakes and dramatic set pieces lies a story about accountability, perception, and the danger of letting old grudges define your future. Bree’s journey isn’t just escape; it’s recognition, remorse, and hard-earned growth. The cast includes neurodivergent and queer characters whose identities feel naturally integrated, reflecting the diversity of real teens rather than checking boxes.
The book’s biggest strengths lie in its propulsive pace and imaginative worldbuilding. Ametrine feels cinematic and immersive, from sensory suits that simulate touch and taste to environments that twist at Madison’s command. It’s outlandish at times, and intentionally so, but never dull. Even those who struggle to like the characters (and many will) will find themselves rooting for Bree’s survival and transformation.
Not everything lands perfectly. Some emotional reactions are dialed up to extremes, and Madison’s obsession borders on unbelievable, though younger YA readers may find those reactions relatable in their heightened intensity. A few twists and the final resolution don’t hit quite as sharply as the build-up promises, but the ending still provides closure, especially in watching Bree reckon with who she was and who she wants to become.
Overall, this is a dramatic, adrenaline-fueled mystery-thriller that examines bullying, betrayal, and the messy desire to belong. “The Spiral Key” is over the top, gripping, occasionally ridiculous and often exactly what a YA thriller should be. This book is perfect for those who like their stories intense, their characters flawed, and their thrills wrapped in neon VR aesthetics.
October 24, 2025
All opinions are my own! Thank you to NetGalley
Remember that old movie quote: “If you die in the game, you die in real life”? What if that quote had some truth to it?
Kelsey Day’s “The Spiral Key” takes that premise and twists it in her YA debut.
Madison Pembroke is the Queen Bee of Lincoln Academy. And in such fashion, she is notorious for her birthday parties, where your invitation, a custom spiral key, gives you entrance into Ametrine, a virtual reality world designed by Madison’s tech billionaire parents, solely used to host Madison’s uber exclusive birthday party.
Bree Benson, Madison’s ex-bff, has been branded as Public Enemy Number One since freshman year, and thus has never been a recipient of one of these coveted keys.
But when she finds one in her possession, with a note from Madison that she sees as an olive branch, Bree decides to go, with the hope of rekindling their former friendship.
When party games turn provocative, bordering on violent, Bree realizes that there was more to the invitation than she thought, and Madison’s olive branch was just a ploy to get her here. And while Bree was lucky enough to enter Ametrine…well, she’ll be even more lucky if Madison actually lets her leave.
A thriller/mystery with the setting of a virtual reality game? That immediately peaked my interest. The concept felt interesting enough to get me reading, and honestly? It kept me hooked through to the end. Day crafts a world that feels so real, so that the stakes feel like they’re equally real. Coupled with the way she designed the world and how the characters interact (specialized suits that allow them to experience things in the game, but also experience the feeling (like being touched, or eating, or even smelling).
The characters, primarily Madison and Bree, felt the most fleshed out, which makes sense, since this is their story. Day has captured the essence of a childhood friendship turned obsession, and how one moment can ruin it.
The side characters had their moments, and did feel like they were necessary to the story in different ways, so no one felt unimportant. I would have loved to hear more about the previous parties and what happened to the guests of those, especially Everly, Madison’s right hand girl and Bree’s ex frenemy.
This book was a quick read, and enjoyable. Definitely something to grab on a snowy day and allow yourself to get lost in Ametrine for a few hours too.
Remember that old movie quote: “If you die in the game, you die in real life”? What if that quote had some truth to it?
Kelsey Day’s “The Spiral Key” takes that premise and twists it in her YA debut.
Madison Pembroke is the Queen Bee of Lincoln Academy. And in such fashion, she is notorious for her birthday parties, where your invitation, a custom spiral key, gives you entrance into Ametrine, a virtual reality world designed by Madison’s tech billionaire parents, solely used to host Madison’s uber exclusive birthday party.
Bree Benson, Madison’s ex-bff, has been branded as Public Enemy Number One since freshman year, and thus has never been a recipient of one of these coveted keys.
But when she finds one in her possession, with a note from Madison that she sees as an olive branch, Bree decides to go, with the hope of rekindling their former friendship.
When party games turn provocative, bordering on violent, Bree realizes that there was more to the invitation than she thought, and Madison’s olive branch was just a ploy to get her here. And while Bree was lucky enough to enter Ametrine…well, she’ll be even more lucky if Madison actually lets her leave.
A thriller/mystery with the setting of a virtual reality game? That immediately peaked my interest. The concept felt interesting enough to get me reading, and honestly? It kept me hooked through to the end. Day crafts a world that feels so real, so that the stakes feel like they’re equally real. Coupled with the way she designed the world and how the characters interact (specialized suits that allow them to experience things in the game, but also experience the feeling (like being touched, or eating, or even smelling).
The characters, primarily Madison and Bree, felt the most fleshed out, which makes sense, since this is their story. Day has captured the essence of a childhood friendship turned obsession, and how one moment can ruin it.
The side characters had their moments, and did feel like they were necessary to the story in different ways, so no one felt unimportant. I would have loved to hear more about the previous parties and what happened to the guests of those, especially Everly, Madison’s right hand girl and Bree’s ex frenemy.
This book was a quick read, and enjoyable. Definitely something to grab on a snowy day and allow yourself to get lost in Ametrine for a few hours too.
December 20, 2025
🕶️ ┊❝ forgive and forget? or at least forgive? ❞
PLOT
I really liked the virtual city the characters are taken into. It’s vivid and easy to picture, which made Ametrine feel immersive and unsettling. The party games were a good sort of tense, and the invitees' refusal to leave as things grew darker and more violent was a pretty realistic portrayal of peer pressure. The overall story--centered on a girl with billionaire parents being given full reign over a virtual world--felt a bit implausible, but I still enjoyed it despite that.
I would say the violence was a tad too intense for a YA book, though.
CHARACTERS
Bree: I liked that Bree wasn’t a typical YA protagonist. Her thought process was easy to understand, and her choices felt believable. I especially appreciated that she ultimately accepted her own responsibility in what happened instead of being framed as entirely blameless. I also really enjoyed her dynamic with her little brother, which made her feel more human.
Madison: I want to say that I feel sorry for her, but I don't. She felt overly villainous and a bit one-note. While I understood her motives, she took things far beyond what felt believable, and with either more restraint or deeper insight into how everything warped her, I might have felt differently.
Devin: Although he was more of a side character, I thought his relationship with Bree was sweet and I liked how they ended things off.
Other Partygoers: They were an interesting mix and, although a few of them annoyed me, I think they added a good amount of tension to the story. Everly and Vanessa stood out as highlights, as I liked that they weren't two-dimensional.
PLOT
I really liked the virtual city the characters are taken into. It’s vivid and easy to picture, which made Ametrine feel immersive and unsettling. The party games were a good sort of tense, and the invitees' refusal to leave as things grew darker and more violent was a pretty realistic portrayal of peer pressure. The overall story--centered on a girl with billionaire parents being given full reign over a virtual world--felt a bit implausible, but I still enjoyed it despite that.
I would say the violence was a tad too intense for a YA book, though.
CHARACTERS
Bree: I liked that Bree wasn’t a typical YA protagonist. Her thought process was easy to understand, and her choices felt believable. I especially appreciated that she ultimately accepted her own responsibility in what happened instead of being framed as entirely blameless. I also really enjoyed her dynamic with her little brother, which made her feel more human.
Madison: I want to say that I feel sorry for her, but I don't. She felt overly villainous and a bit one-note. While I understood her motives, she took things far beyond what felt believable, and with either more restraint or deeper insight into how everything warped her, I might have felt differently.
Devin: Although he was more of a side character, I thought his relationship with Bree was sweet and I liked how they ended things off.
Other Partygoers: They were an interesting mix and, although a few of them annoyed me, I think they added a good amount of tension to the story. Everly and Vanessa stood out as highlights, as I liked that they weren't two-dimensional.
November 3, 2025
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. As a reader, I recognize my personal bias: I believe I have aged out of the current themes and stylistic conventions dominating the Young Adult genre, which colored my reading experience of The Spiral Key.
Author Kelsey Day is clearly talented. Her short story, "Something Bright," showcased her ability to use introspective contemplation and a strong literary voice when exploring mental illness, demonstrating a depth I hoped to find in this novel.
However, the protagonist's voice in The Spiral Key often felt one-dimensional and constrained by familiar Young Adult tropes. Bree's core identity—consumed by a lost past and driven by perpetual anger and angst—made it difficult to connect with her journey. Her unique strength was an eloquent metaphorical moment: the desire to use collage to create a useful present out of a fragmented past, but this psychological nuance was sadly undercut by the surrounding action.
The antagonist, Madison, felt less like a complex character and more like an over-the-top, classic "mean girl" archetype elevated to the level of a cartoon villain within the virtual setting.
The novel's exploration of horror relies heavily on graphic sadism—watching others suffer humiliation, injury, and forced mutilation—rather than focusing on psychological terror. This type of virtual reality felt less like a contest for agency, as seen in classics like Ender's Game (1985) and Ready Player One (2011), and more like a space where the monsters are simply left in charge. The victory felt hollow, and the price exacted by the ending felt unsatisfying.
Author Kelsey Day is clearly talented. Her short story, "Something Bright," showcased her ability to use introspective contemplation and a strong literary voice when exploring mental illness, demonstrating a depth I hoped to find in this novel.
However, the protagonist's voice in The Spiral Key often felt one-dimensional and constrained by familiar Young Adult tropes. Bree's core identity—consumed by a lost past and driven by perpetual anger and angst—made it difficult to connect with her journey. Her unique strength was an eloquent metaphorical moment: the desire to use collage to create a useful present out of a fragmented past, but this psychological nuance was sadly undercut by the surrounding action.
The antagonist, Madison, felt less like a complex character and more like an over-the-top, classic "mean girl" archetype elevated to the level of a cartoon villain within the virtual setting.
The novel's exploration of horror relies heavily on graphic sadism—watching others suffer humiliation, injury, and forced mutilation—rather than focusing on psychological terror. This type of virtual reality felt less like a contest for agency, as seen in classics like Ender's Game (1985) and Ready Player One (2011), and more like a space where the monsters are simply left in charge. The victory felt hollow, and the price exacted by the ending felt unsatisfying.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I read this book without having read the synopsis, which in retrospect was a good idea, as it prevented me from setting any expectations about the storyline. From the cover alone, I had assumed it would be a start YA thriller/murder mystery, so I was quite surprised by the overtones of virtual reality throughout the story. Nevertheless, the science fiction elements still felt realistic, which made the story more enjoyable for me.
As a whole, this book feels like it's strictly in the YA category, for better or for worse. Some of the drama/intrigue is very high school-oriented, so as someone in their twenties, the main conflict between Madison and Bree seemed a little... superficial and immature, to say the least. For most of the book, Madison read as almost a textbook villain, despite the author's attempt to make her seem multi-faceted. In comparison, Bree shows a great deal of growth and nuance in her actions. This dichotomy was a little confusing to me, and I wish the author took more time to really delve into the main characters' past friendship and the cause of its end. However, I should acknowledge that a factor in this could also be the length of the novel (around 270 pages); for the amount of topics that are covered, it's very short. I'm not sure if the length is for publishing reasons (e.g. maybe longer books are difficult to market, especially for debut novels?) or a choice by the author, but as a whole, the story felt rushed.
In any case, the overall message and vibe of the novel is great, especially for younger YA readers! Thank you to Net Galley and Penguin for the ARC!
*3.5 stars rounded up*
As a whole, this book feels like it's strictly in the YA category, for better or for worse. Some of the drama/intrigue is very high school-oriented, so as someone in their twenties, the main conflict between Madison and Bree seemed a little... superficial and immature, to say the least. For most of the book, Madison read as almost a textbook villain, despite the author's attempt to make her seem multi-faceted. In comparison, Bree shows a great deal of growth and nuance in her actions. This dichotomy was a little confusing to me, and I wish the author took more time to really delve into the main characters' past friendship and the cause of its end. However, I should acknowledge that a factor in this could also be the length of the novel (around 270 pages); for the amount of topics that are covered, it's very short. I'm not sure if the length is for publishing reasons (e.g. maybe longer books are difficult to market, especially for debut novels?) or a choice by the author, but as a whole, the story felt rushed.
In any case, the overall message and vibe of the novel is great, especially for younger YA readers! Thank you to Net Galley and Penguin for the ARC!
*3.5 stars rounded up*
November 7, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐
THE SPIRAL KEY by Kelsea Day (Feb 24, 2026)
Thank you Netgalley and Penguin Teen for the earc
Madison Pembroke's parties are the talk of the year. Everyone vyes for an invitation, for that spiral key. Her ex bff, Bree Benson has never received a key...until this year. Despite warnings, she sees this as a way to get back in with Madison, as an olive branch. The virtual reality party starts off as fun, then it turns dangerous...Madison doesn't plan to let Bree leave.
THE SPIRAL KEY is a locked room, YA thriller that takes place in the world of virtual reality. The premise is interesting and unique. I don't think I've read such a revenge forward story set in VR.
THE SPIRAL KEY is pretty short, which makes it a fast-paced read...and it's pretty easy to read. A lot happens, and I can honestly say there's never a dull moment as Bree works to survive.
I wasn't a fan of any of these characters. The obsession that Bree had with her ex best friend was a bit much. I didn't get it...why that was the focus when it had been so long since their fallout. Let's not forget Madison and her minions were insufferable. (I know they were supposed to be).
Despite my dislike of the characters, I did root for Bree. I wanted her to get out of that world, to survive.
I did like the way this ended up playing out after getting past the characters. THE SPIRAL KEY is über dramatic with everything that happened between Bree and Madison and every other character, terrifying because of what Madison brought to life with her party, and entertaining.
THE SPIRAL KEY by Kelsea Day (Feb 24, 2026)
Thank you Netgalley and Penguin Teen for the earc
Madison Pembroke's parties are the talk of the year. Everyone vyes for an invitation, for that spiral key. Her ex bff, Bree Benson has never received a key...until this year. Despite warnings, she sees this as a way to get back in with Madison, as an olive branch. The virtual reality party starts off as fun, then it turns dangerous...Madison doesn't plan to let Bree leave.
THE SPIRAL KEY is a locked room, YA thriller that takes place in the world of virtual reality. The premise is interesting and unique. I don't think I've read such a revenge forward story set in VR.
THE SPIRAL KEY is pretty short, which makes it a fast-paced read...and it's pretty easy to read. A lot happens, and I can honestly say there's never a dull moment as Bree works to survive.
I wasn't a fan of any of these characters. The obsession that Bree had with her ex best friend was a bit much. I didn't get it...why that was the focus when it had been so long since their fallout. Let's not forget Madison and her minions were insufferable. (I know they were supposed to be).
Despite my dislike of the characters, I did root for Bree. I wanted her to get out of that world, to survive.
I did like the way this ended up playing out after getting past the characters. THE SPIRAL KEY is über dramatic with everything that happened between Bree and Madison and every other character, terrifying because of what Madison brought to life with her party, and entertaining.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Kelsey Day’s YA debut, The Spiral Key, is a high-octane thriller that feels like Black Mirror meets Mean Girls. The story follows Bree Benson, who is unexpectedly invited to Ametrine—an exclusive virtual-reality paradise hosted by her former best friend turned arch-nemesis, Madison Pembroke. While Bree hopes the "Spiral Key" invitation is a peace offering, she quickly realizes that Ametrine isn't a playground; it’s a digital cage. What follows is a brutal game of survival where the stakes are life and death, and the primary weapon is a shared history of secrets.
The core of this book isn't just the "death game" mechanics; it’s the emotional fallout of betrayal. Watching Bree navigate her desire for revenge versus her need for redemption was the highlight for me. Day captures the "social status is everything" mindset of high school perfectly. The characters often make impulsive, emotionally driven, and—at times—infuriating decisions. While their behavior can be frustrating, it feels authentic to their age and adds a layer of anxiety to the plot. You truly feel their desperation to belong and their fear of social extinction.
The book is a wild ride of twists and turns, though the resolution didn't quite hit as hard as the rest of the story for me. The climax is incredibly intense—a heart-pounding sequence that left me breathless—but the ending felt a bit rushed in comparison. After such a high-velocity build-up, it fell slightly flat, leaving me wishing for a punchier final reveal. Overall, The Spiral Key is a gripping exploration of how the people who know us best are the ones equipped to destroy us most effectively. It’s a fast-paced, imaginative thriller that I would definitely recommend to fans of Holly Jackson or Jessica Goodman.
The core of this book isn't just the "death game" mechanics; it’s the emotional fallout of betrayal. Watching Bree navigate her desire for revenge versus her need for redemption was the highlight for me. Day captures the "social status is everything" mindset of high school perfectly. The characters often make impulsive, emotionally driven, and—at times—infuriating decisions. While their behavior can be frustrating, it feels authentic to their age and adds a layer of anxiety to the plot. You truly feel their desperation to belong and their fear of social extinction.
The book is a wild ride of twists and turns, though the resolution didn't quite hit as hard as the rest of the story for me. The climax is incredibly intense—a heart-pounding sequence that left me breathless—but the ending felt a bit rushed in comparison. After such a high-velocity build-up, it fell slightly flat, leaving me wishing for a punchier final reveal. Overall, The Spiral Key is a gripping exploration of how the people who know us best are the ones equipped to destroy us most effectively. It’s a fast-paced, imaginative thriller that I would definitely recommend to fans of Holly Jackson or Jessica Goodman.
January 4, 2026
So this book is majority set in a VR setting, which may appeal to some readers, but for me was a little bit challenging. The concept being that the queen bee of the school has invited a select group of people who all desperately want to be there to be part of her birthday party in the virtual reality. One of the girls that she invites is her ex Bestie, who is questioning why all of a sudden she’s welcomed back into the fold. Well, that’s the premise for the book. There’s also a lot of commentary about the meanness of young people, especially middle school high school meanness. And how much we often talk about each other maybe in a way that we don’t think sounds awful, but is really hurtful to others. I think unfortunately girls are especially good at this more than men are in this book, certainly highlights that. However, there was a lot of violence in this book that felt a little bit like overkill to me and I wasn’t sure ever really resolved itself as necessary by the end of the book. I did really like the concept and the idea that the things people say about you can get under your skin and stay with you and that people should be more aware that they make people feel this way. I just didn’t like the way some of it played out.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a fast paced, YA thriller set in a virtual reality and the teenage drama ensues. This isn't always my favorite type of genre but once in a while the blurb will draw me in and this one definitely did. Elite birthday party in a virtual reality is something I haven't heard of or read before and it sounded great. The characters are flawed and unlikeable, the stakes are higher than they seem and the consequences are devastating. I found that parts of this book were a little over the top and the consequences didn't always match the actions but I really enjoyed reading this one. There are definitely elements of bullying so if that is something that triggers you I would not recommend this one. Otherwise, it's an entertaining and quick read.
This one states: For fans of Holly Jackson and Jessica Goodman and while I haven't read any of Jessica's work I have read Holly's and I would agree with this statement.
Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Young Readers Group | Viking Books for Young Readers for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This one states: For fans of Holly Jackson and Jessica Goodman and while I haven't read any of Jessica's work I have read Holly's and I would agree with this statement.
Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Young Readers Group | Viking Books for Young Readers for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 13, 2026
3.5/5 stars
I am a sucker for YA thrillers so I was instantly intrigued by this book. It was fast paced and unexpected. In some ways, it reminded me of the movie Nerve. I will also admit that there were some parts in this story that made me a bit uncomfortable and that I felt like could have been worded differently.
The Spiral Key is a thriller set in a virtual reality world and it gets unsettling pretty fast. There were times where I did not know what was going to happen next. I do want to note that the characters were not my favorites, and that includes Bree. However, I did appreciate the diversity among the characters.
The biggest issue for me was the ending. It didn’t really feel complete. I think we could have gotten more closure and more of a resolution. It did not answer all my questions which was a bit unfortunate.
Overall, this book was pleasantly good and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a fast paced thriller!
Thank you to Viking Books for allowing me to receive an ARC of The Spiral Key from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I am a sucker for YA thrillers so I was instantly intrigued by this book. It was fast paced and unexpected. In some ways, it reminded me of the movie Nerve. I will also admit that there were some parts in this story that made me a bit uncomfortable and that I felt like could have been worded differently.
The Spiral Key is a thriller set in a virtual reality world and it gets unsettling pretty fast. There were times where I did not know what was going to happen next. I do want to note that the characters were not my favorites, and that includes Bree. However, I did appreciate the diversity among the characters.
The biggest issue for me was the ending. It didn’t really feel complete. I think we could have gotten more closure and more of a resolution. It did not answer all my questions which was a bit unfortunate.
Overall, this book was pleasantly good and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a fast paced thriller!
Thank you to Viking Books for allowing me to receive an ARC of The Spiral Key from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Mean Girls meet holiday party turned terror in The Spiral Key by Kelsey Day. I'd not read any of Day's work before, but I read a fair amount of YA in search of books for my middle school students and I love mysteries, so this book seemed ideal. I can see my 8th graders enjoying this book. While it has some violence, the descriptions of it are not too graphic, and there was little to no sexual content (which helps me tread the delicate line between middle and high school).
Day created an interesting mixture of high school angst and AI / technology. The mega scary queen bee character in Madison was given a creative twist by her having her own VR world where she wields her power via chainsaw or knife or social demolishment. While some of the characters are typical high school tropes, Day provides some fun twists and surprises along the way.
Day created an interesting mixture of high school angst and AI / technology. The mega scary queen bee character in Madison was given a creative twist by her having her own VR world where she wields her power via chainsaw or knife or social demolishment. While some of the characters are typical high school tropes, Day provides some fun twists and surprises along the way.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Netgalley for the copy.
I had the best experience and from the beginning, it was giving mean girls and trying to fight for the spot to popularity. The difference was the main character was friends with the bully here and she could air out things that she never shared with the others. They did not know her how she knew her. But, really, it was like that for them both. I loved how the brother automatically knew something was going to go down between them, like she don't talk to you for years and you get an invitation like the math is not adding up. This was a mean girls turns good but, now all her secrets get aired out like the person she is now doesn't even matter. Someone always gotta be stuck in the past and jealous of the thrive you giving off now. I loved this even for a YA, I could see myself rereading this again.
I had the best experience and from the beginning, it was giving mean girls and trying to fight for the spot to popularity. The difference was the main character was friends with the bully here and she could air out things that she never shared with the others. They did not know her how she knew her. But, really, it was like that for them both. I loved how the brother automatically knew something was going to go down between them, like she don't talk to you for years and you get an invitation like the math is not adding up. This was a mean girls turns good but, now all her secrets get aired out like the person she is now doesn't even matter. Someone always gotta be stuck in the past and jealous of the thrive you giving off now. I loved this even for a YA, I could see myself rereading this again.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Spiral Key is a fast-paced YA thriller with strong sci-fi elements. While it was an entertaining and quick read, I found the only characters I was really rooting for were Petey and to a lesser extent Devin, as everyone else seemed too caught up in the mean girl, clique culture of fitting in at Lincoln Academy by sucking up to Madison Pembroke.
I enjoyed the story, writing style, and the idea of the VR birthday party, but couldn’t help but notice how reminiscent the virtual world of Ametrine felt of the holobands, V-World, and lawless New Cap City from the TV series Caprica. While this didn’t detract from my enjoyment, it did make the setting feel more familiar than surprising.
Thanks to NetGalley and Viking Penguin for the advance copy and opportunity to read this book early.
I enjoyed the story, writing style, and the idea of the VR birthday party, but couldn’t help but notice how reminiscent the virtual world of Ametrine felt of the holobands, V-World, and lawless New Cap City from the TV series Caprica. While this didn’t detract from my enjoyment, it did make the setting feel more familiar than surprising.
Thanks to NetGalley and Viking Penguin for the advance copy and opportunity to read this book early.
January 7, 2026
This was an okay book. I didn't really find myself connecting much with any of the characters at all, honestly especially Bree. Now if you know that girl hates you why the hell would you go into a world managed by her parents??? I'd say Bree was too trusting for someone who she seemed to hate so much in the start.
I do think that the idea of the virtual world, I thought that was cool and I do kind of wish we had something like that other then VR irl.
Otherwise this was a fairly quick read and did have some interesting twists and concepts!
Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin Young Readers Group for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
I do think that the idea of the virtual world, I thought that was cool and I do kind of wish we had something like that other then VR irl.
Otherwise this was a fairly quick read and did have some interesting twists and concepts!
Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin Young Readers Group for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
November 18, 2025
This is one of the most propulsive, addicting YA debuts that I've had the pleasure of getting my hands on! I genuinely could not put this book down (i took it to the bathroom with me multiple times). The world building/setting of the VR universe was so vivid and so thoughtfully done, with flowery but grounded prose. I was gasping at every plot twist, and connecting with each of the characters in their vulnerable moments. If you like thrillery genre bendy queer rep you should totally totally read this book!!!!
January 12, 2026
Sci-fi twist added to an insane amount of high school drama.
The FMC, Bree, is being ostracized by Madison, the queenbee of a fancy private school. And of course, they used to be besties until Bree's dad did something unforgivable.
I was definitely waiting for the other foot to fall for most of the book. And when it finally did, ooooh goodness it was satisfying. While YA, this story encourages readers to think about how they see themselves, how they're perceived and how actions have consequences. Questions about the use of AI, surveillance, technology, etc are at the forefront as well.
Overall, this was not only entertaining, it had a lot of food for thought.
Thank you Penguin Young Readers Group for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
The FMC, Bree, is being ostracized by Madison, the queenbee of a fancy private school. And of course, they used to be besties until Bree's dad did something unforgivable.
I was definitely waiting for the other foot to fall for most of the book. And when it finally did, ooooh goodness it was satisfying. While YA, this story encourages readers to think about how they see themselves, how they're perceived and how actions have consequences. Questions about the use of AI, surveillance, technology, etc are at the forefront as well.
Overall, this was not only entertaining, it had a lot of food for thought.
Thank you Penguin Young Readers Group for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you, Penguin Young Readers Group, for providing the copy of The Spiral Key by Kelsey Day. I love YA thrillers and this one is something special. I was captivated with the fun writing style from the beginning, and the story, while not entirely plausible, was gripping. Bree was a well-written main character, and it was easy to care about her. If you want a book you won’t be able to put down, try this one. This is a stunning debut! 5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The spiral key was honestly a big surprise to me. I wasn’t super drawn into the concept cause it seemed a bit more sci-fi than I usually go for, but once I got into it, the author did such a good job of making Ametrine truly feel like a nightmare. I only wish that we got to hear some of the consequences, especially for the more cruel characters we see. Over all, I would definitely recommend for anyone who wants a quick read and enjoys thrillers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really liked this. It’s a cool concept that fits perfectly into a modern world filled with AI and VR. One thing I found a little hard to believe was how “OMG she loves me again and did all this for me” Bree was when she got the invitation and started at the party. Her Spidey senses never tingled! I still devoured it, though, and would definitely read more from this author.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
January 3, 2026
I’d like to thank NetGalley for the chance to read an ARC of The Spiral Key by Kelsey Day.
This fast, entertaining YA thriller has a clever VR twist that kept me fully engaged. Bree’s journey is tense and suspenseful, and the VR world grows darker and creepier as the night goes on.
A few plot points were predictable, but the pacing and suspense make it an enjoyable read. I’d definitely be interested in reading more from Kelsey Day.
This fast, entertaining YA thriller has a clever VR twist that kept me fully engaged. Bree’s journey is tense and suspenseful, and the VR world grows darker and creepier as the night goes on.
A few plot points were predictable, but the pacing and suspense make it an enjoyable read. I’d definitely be interested in reading more from Kelsey Day.
November 5, 2025
I’m obsessed with Kelsey Day’s writing and the entire premise of this novel!! A twisty thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat, with interesting, three-dimensional characters and an emotional depth that blew me away. Highly, highly recommend if you’re a fan of thrillers, queer rep, horror, and/or friendship breakups. And sci-fi, too!! The VR world is super unique and compelling, I loved it!
November 28, 2025
I know puberty is rough but damn… none of the stuff in here justified the insane actions in this book. It was a quick read, but didn’t really work for me as I wasn’t rooting for any character. It also felt rushed at times.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I’ve always been a fan of YA thrillers and I’m always looking for one that is incredibly different and this one hit that mark.
A virtual reality world built around the real world that is used as a hit party but that’s when it all turns bad.
This thriller had all the elements you’d expect from a YA thriller and really hit the mark for me.
A virtual reality world built around the real world that is used as a hit party but that’s when it all turns bad.
This thriller had all the elements you’d expect from a YA thriller and really hit the mark for me.
November 5, 2025
Love love love this, I couldn't stop turning the pages and the writing was so good?? The twisty genre bendy thriller I never knew I needed?? Kelsey Day writes like a poet, not a single word goes to waste. I want to read everything they write.
Want to read
July 21, 2025"A high-stakes thriller is set in a virtual-reality paradise turned hellscape, from a celebrated writer making their YA debut"
November 3, 2025
3.8
Mostly fun, mildly grizley, super duper quick read. I wish it had been raining - and afternoon of drizzles and mild sociopathy would have been cozy.
Mostly fun, mildly grizley, super duper quick read. I wish it had been raining - and afternoon of drizzles and mild sociopathy would have been cozy.
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