2.5 stars
The first book in the Nightmare Room Thrillogy follows April Powers and her participation in the Life Games. While she is playing these games, so it an evil spirit connected to the Salem Witch Trial, which feels like it is banking on a story that I have come across way too many times. I like the reality show-esque concept, but it is VERY inconsistent. This book definitely demonstrates Swiss cheese writing, for there are waaaayyyy too many holes. One such example is how April brings about how strict her parents are. The next moment, she is on her way to taking part without a single explanation to how her parents made the decision they did and then blow them off all together.
We definitely knew that things were going to be predictable, given their target audience, and the fact that April would be taking part, but the way in which April got in was so predictable that it was ridiculous.
This book has way too many flaws, but it is still intriguing and adventurous. I am not sure if I would be inclined to read two books, for I like the concept, but despise the execution.