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Getaway
It was supposed to be the perfect week away... Imogen and Beck, two sisters who couldn't be more different, have been friends with Tilda since high school. Once inseparable, over two decades the women have grown apart. But after Imogen survives a traumatic attack, Beck suggests they all reunite to hike deep into the Grand Canyon’s backcountry. A week away, secluded in nature... surely it’s just what they need.
But as the terrain grows tougher, tensions from their shared past bubble up. And when supplies begin to disappear, it becomes clear secrets aren’t the only thing they’re being stalked by. As friendship and survival collide with an unspeakable evil, Getaway becomes another riveting thriller from a growing master of suspense and “a literary horror writer on the rise” (BookPage).
But as the terrain grows tougher, tensions from their shared past bubble up. And when supplies begin to disappear, it becomes clear secrets aren’t the only thing they’re being stalked by. As friendship and survival collide with an unspeakable evil, Getaway becomes another riveting thriller from a growing master of suspense and “a literary horror writer on the rise” (BookPage).
352 pages, Hardcover
First published August 17, 2021
176 people are currently reading
9568 people want to read
About the author
Zoje Stage
15 books2,775 followersZoje Stage is a USA Today and internationally bestselling author of psychological thrillers (Baby Teeth, Dear Hanna, Getaway), psychological horror (Wonderland, Mothered), and offbeat books of dark whimsy (My UnderSlumberBumbleBeast, The Girl Who Outgrew the World). She's been a "Book of the Week" author in People magazine, and a Bram Stoker award nominee. Her books have been named "best of the year" by Forbes Magazine, Library Journal, PopSugar, Barnes & Noble, Book Riot, BookPage, Bloody Disgusting, and more. She lives in Pittsburgh with her cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 518 reviews
July 4, 2021
2.5*
You know how sometimes everyone just loves an author? And though you’ve had a less than stellar previous experience you jump back in because you know for sure it will work this next time. A terminal case of FOMO.
Yes, that’s me!🙋🏻♀️. And as you guessed, I tried…I conquered…and no, it still didn’t work!😫
Imogen, Beck, and Tilda are about to embark on a hike of a lifetime down the Grand Canyon. Going in the off-season to ensure privacy (really didn’t know there was such a thing when it came to hiking in National Parks). A time to reflect on their lives and friendships and hopefully emerge from the canyon stronger.
Only they realize they are not alone on this trail. Their food and belongings have been rifled through. Items critical for their survival…missing.
Is it more unsettling not to know who’s responsible? Or come face to face with the culprit?
The storyline was painfully slow and the first half of the book consisted of everything you ever wanted to know about hiking/camping. (Not my cup of ☕️).
Once the hike finally started and we were moving forward (excuse the pun😜). I settled in for what I hoped was going to be a good ‘ole creepy read.
Unfortunately, my eyes started rolling🙄 and didn’t stop till the end. The premise sounded so good. I really thought I was going to have an edge of my seat thriller. But these women just made one bad mistake after another and I lost all interest in their “getaway”.
If this book is on your list, I hope it works out better for you.
A buddy read with Susanne
Posted to: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Thank you to NetGalley and Mulholland Books.
You know how sometimes everyone just loves an author? And though you’ve had a less than stellar previous experience you jump back in because you know for sure it will work this next time. A terminal case of FOMO.
Yes, that’s me!🙋🏻♀️. And as you guessed, I tried…I conquered…and no, it still didn’t work!😫
Imogen, Beck, and Tilda are about to embark on a hike of a lifetime down the Grand Canyon. Going in the off-season to ensure privacy (really didn’t know there was such a thing when it came to hiking in National Parks). A time to reflect on their lives and friendships and hopefully emerge from the canyon stronger.
Only they realize they are not alone on this trail. Their food and belongings have been rifled through. Items critical for their survival…missing.
Is it more unsettling not to know who’s responsible? Or come face to face with the culprit?
The storyline was painfully slow and the first half of the book consisted of everything you ever wanted to know about hiking/camping. (Not my cup of ☕️).
Once the hike finally started and we were moving forward (excuse the pun😜). I settled in for what I hoped was going to be a good ‘ole creepy read.
Unfortunately, my eyes started rolling🙄 and didn’t stop till the end. The premise sounded so good. I really thought I was going to have an edge of my seat thriller. But these women just made one bad mistake after another and I lost all interest in their “getaway”.
If this book is on your list, I hope it works out better for you.
A buddy read with Susanne
Posted to: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Thank you to NetGalley and Mulholland Books.
July 5, 2021
Review to be posted on blog: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
No Way, No Day.
I’m all for hiking (though I wouldn’t do it in this heat!) and I love the Grand Canyon, but the decisions made by Imogen, Beck, and Tilda in Zoje Stage’s “Getaway” had me scratching my head.
When sisters Imogen and Beck, and their friend Tilda go hiking through the Grand Canyon they expect that it will be a way for them to reconnect after growing apart. Little do they know that they are walking into a death trap, literally.
After a day of hiking, some of their supplies disappear. Then, they notice someone following them. Instead of hightailing it out of there, they decide to keep at it, and that my friends, is their first mistake.
If only I found this book to be gripping, but detailed descriptions about hiking took their toll page after page. Bad decisions thereafter, had me rolling my eyes and shaking my head. In the end, I simply decided that I was the wrong reader for this novel.
Another buddy read with Kaceey.
Thank you to NetGalley and Mulholland Books for the arc.
Published on Goodreads and Twitter
No Way, No Day.
I’m all for hiking (though I wouldn’t do it in this heat!) and I love the Grand Canyon, but the decisions made by Imogen, Beck, and Tilda in Zoje Stage’s “Getaway” had me scratching my head.
When sisters Imogen and Beck, and their friend Tilda go hiking through the Grand Canyon they expect that it will be a way for them to reconnect after growing apart. Little do they know that they are walking into a death trap, literally.
After a day of hiking, some of their supplies disappear. Then, they notice someone following them. Instead of hightailing it out of there, they decide to keep at it, and that my friends, is their first mistake.
If only I found this book to be gripping, but detailed descriptions about hiking took their toll page after page. Bad decisions thereafter, had me rolling my eyes and shaking my head. In the end, I simply decided that I was the wrong reader for this novel.
Another buddy read with Kaceey.
Thank you to NetGalley and Mulholland Books for the arc.
Published on Goodreads and Twitter
December 30, 2020
Though Advanced Reader Copies of this book haven't been printed yet, I can vouch for having read GETAWAY. ;-) Also, rumor has it the cover will be revealed on Jan. 21, 2021 -- stay tuned!
July 3, 2022
With a really slow start I had my doubts, but was pleasantly surprised. The synopsis really doesn't do this one justice. Get past the first few chapters and you get a thriller worth the effort😊
August 8, 2021
Welcome to the camping trip from H-E-Double Hockey sticks. The cover is a fabulous foil for this new release from Zoje Stage. The setting of the story enticed me to give this book a try. I have always loved reading about the Grand Canyon. Ten years ago I was able to visit the South Rim with family and the scope of it is just unfathomable. Stage tells us the story of three 30-ish young women who were fast friends in high school and college, but have since grown apart. This week of camping and hiking is going to be a reset, a reunion. Just one day in and they realize there could be another person who is not on the same page with trail etiquette. Much of the story shows how they deal with the unexpected setbacks and unimaginable events. Will they all three survive? How will their decisions affect their future relationships? Will these new traumas unlock some of the old, or pile on new baggage? I hover between "liked" and "really liked" and am willing to tip a bit toward the upper end. Just like Baby Teeth, you can be sure the book will stick with you when you are done.
Thank you to Mulholland Books and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Mulholland Books and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
September 8, 2021
Three women, friends since childhood, go on a week long trip thru the Grand Canyon. The trip is meant to mend relationships and heal wounds and it actually seems to be working. Until some of their food goes missing the first night. Until their camp is ransacked the next. Until they come face to face with the man responsible. What started as a challenging vacation quickly becomes a fight for survival. Do they have what it takes to get out of the Canyon alive?
This book really wasn't at all what I was expecting, mainly due to the blurb. With the horror author quote and "unspeakable evil," I thought I was going to get some kind of creature feature. Instead, it's really more of a fight for survival thriller. Horror and thriller are categories that overlap a bit, but they're still pretty easy to tell apart. This was clearly a thriller. Fortunately, I like thrillers too.
This was my first Zoje Stage book, but it won't be my last. I loved her writing style in this book. With some writers, every time you pick up the story, it takes a bit to sink into it. With this book, I was immediately immersed in the writing every time I went back.
I thought the characters were really well written and most of their decisions felt in character. There were definitely some bad decisions made by characters in this book, but they make sense in context...mostly. There's one choice that's a lot dumber than the others, but they had a reason for why they did it. It wasn't a great reason, but I'm sure they thought the pros would outweigh the cons (cue Morgan Freeman voiceover: "They thought wrong.").
The book is pretty heavy on details. I like that kind of thing, but know that a lot of other people don't. There's a lot of information about camping, hiking and the necessary supplies and the layout of the Grand Canyon. Since I'm clueless in that arena, it really helped me get into the story. If you know all of this stuff or don't care for the nitty gritty of a story, you're probably going to have a hard time getting thru the first part of this book.
This book really wasn't at all what I was expecting, mainly due to the blurb. With the horror author quote and "unspeakable evil," I thought I was going to get some kind of creature feature. Instead, it's really more of a fight for survival thriller. Horror and thriller are categories that overlap a bit, but they're still pretty easy to tell apart. This was clearly a thriller. Fortunately, I like thrillers too.
This was my first Zoje Stage book, but it won't be my last. I loved her writing style in this book. With some writers, every time you pick up the story, it takes a bit to sink into it. With this book, I was immediately immersed in the writing every time I went back.
I thought the characters were really well written and most of their decisions felt in character. There were definitely some bad decisions made by characters in this book, but they make sense in context...mostly. There's one choice that's a lot dumber than the others, but they had a reason for why they did it. It wasn't a great reason, but I'm sure they thought the pros would outweigh the cons (cue Morgan Freeman voiceover: "They thought wrong.").
The book is pretty heavy on details. I like that kind of thing, but know that a lot of other people don't. There's a lot of information about camping, hiking and the necessary supplies and the layout of the Grand Canyon. Since I'm clueless in that arena, it really helped me get into the story. If you know all of this stuff or don't care for the nitty gritty of a story, you're probably going to have a hard time getting thru the first part of this book.
June 15, 2021
Backpacking and hiking used to be big years ago. I heard about it but have never done. I’m excited to have read about it in this book. I have never visited the Grand Canyon so I’m in awe at the descriptions of the view. The hike at some part sounded scary. I wouldn’t want to be talked into going across “a window’s ledge” size where it fitted the width of a foot. It’s definitely a challenge hiking and backpacking. It’s neat to see what to bring to a backpacking trip and how life is reduced to just survival and basic living out there. I would love to do basic living for a week without worry. The story however, felt like a hike for me, slow going. I don’t agree with how Imogen do things especially with what happened to her in the past. I do like the discussions about life and how little mistakes lead to different paths. The discussion on the different kinds of smarts is good, like book smart vs observation skills.
This book started with a prologue recounted what Imogen, 34, Writer, went through as she headed to a synagogue the morning of the shooting like she normally did. She heard the shots rang out before she entered the building where later many of her friends got killed. Then the story began, with Imogen preparing to go backpacking in the Grand Canyon with her sister Beck, 36, General Practitioner and oldest friend Tilda, 36, Singer/Influencer/Writer. Beck planned the trip for them as a way to celebrate their 20 years friendship. It’s a chance for Imogen to get out of the house since the shooting. It’s also a chance for Imogen and Tilda to reconcile “the Thing” that caused their broken friendship. The hike at Hermit Trail is one that Imogen and Beck had experienced with their family when they were teenagers, however, it’s Tilda’s first time. There’s an epilogue at the end. The author has a small video of how this book originated from on her Twitter’s account.
Getaway was well written. Besides the hike back and forth, the murder was spur of the moment so it wasn’t so thrilling to read for me. I liked the diversity in this book. It’s good to bring to light about people judging people by their skin colors, hair colors, religion, and nationality. The automatic thinking that Tilda was Mexican and therefore was born in Mexico and speak Spanish should be corrected. My son was born in US and his only language is English so I would hate it if he has to explain that he wasn’t really Asian and he doesn’t speak another language. In this case, I understand Tilda’s character and I appreciate the author for bringing up this point. The friendship was good and I liked their attempts at fixing it.
xoxo, Jasmine at www.howusefulitis.wordpress.com for more details
Many thanks to Little, Brown for the opportunity to read and review. Please be assured that my opinions are honest.
This book started with a prologue recounted what Imogen, 34, Writer, went through as she headed to a synagogue the morning of the shooting like she normally did. She heard the shots rang out before she entered the building where later many of her friends got killed. Then the story began, with Imogen preparing to go backpacking in the Grand Canyon with her sister Beck, 36, General Practitioner and oldest friend Tilda, 36, Singer/Influencer/Writer. Beck planned the trip for them as a way to celebrate their 20 years friendship. It’s a chance for Imogen to get out of the house since the shooting. It’s also a chance for Imogen and Tilda to reconcile “the Thing” that caused their broken friendship. The hike at Hermit Trail is one that Imogen and Beck had experienced with their family when they were teenagers, however, it’s Tilda’s first time. There’s an epilogue at the end. The author has a small video of how this book originated from on her Twitter’s account.
Getaway was well written. Besides the hike back and forth, the murder was spur of the moment so it wasn’t so thrilling to read for me. I liked the diversity in this book. It’s good to bring to light about people judging people by their skin colors, hair colors, religion, and nationality. The automatic thinking that Tilda was Mexican and therefore was born in Mexico and speak Spanish should be corrected. My son was born in US and his only language is English so I would hate it if he has to explain that he wasn’t really Asian and he doesn’t speak another language. In this case, I understand Tilda’s character and I appreciate the author for bringing up this point. The friendship was good and I liked their attempts at fixing it.
xoxo, Jasmine at www.howusefulitis.wordpress.com for more details
Many thanks to Little, Brown for the opportunity to read and review. Please be assured that my opinions are honest.
September 15, 2021
I've decided that 2021 must be the year of comebacks for authors I've previously disliked, because It seems I'm on a roll!! After reading Stage's 2020 release, Wonderland, I had a horrible taste in my mouth and decided that perhaps she might have just been a 'One Book Wonder,' for me...however, I'm extremely excited to say that is definitely not the case! I absolutely loved Getaway!!
This novel starts off with a bang (literally), and doesn't let up until the very end. To say it was an edge-of-your-seat thriller might be an understatement, as I was not only at my seat's edge, but I found myself constantly biting my finger nails and even pulling out some hair during the most intense scenes! Keeping that in mind, I believe this would be the perfect book to adapt to the screen.
This is a story about sisters Imogen and Beck, and their lifelong friend Tilda, who after a horrible tragedy decide to put their everyday troubles behind them and go backpacking in the Grand Canyon's backcountry. Naturally past tensions simmer, leading to intermittent bickering and even a couple shouting matchings. To add to their troubles, their food supply has inexplicably dwindled overnight. Is one of them eating more than their share? Could it be an animal? Is there another camper they're unaware of? Is someone out there watching them while they sleep? When they finally get down to the bottom of what's been happening their vacation quickly transforms into a nightmare and they have to put their differences aside to fight for survival! There was a stifling sense of foreboding throughout, which captivated me! The atmospheric Grand Canyon, coupled with the sense of dread really did it for me, I was invested, and I really couldn't turn the pages fast enough! What a wonderful way to come back from a not so stellar second book (IMO)!
Although this wasn't exactly the most original plot, the execution was on point and I believe this read much better than both of Stage's previous works, and I will go so far as to say this is definitely her best novel yet! There are some very brutal/graphic/triggering scenes that might not be for everyone, so I would cautiously recommend this to my fellow thriller/suspense/action/horror fans out there. One thing I know for certain, if you read this alone and at night, this one WILL keep you up!! Now that she's back in my good graces, I simply can't wait to read Stage's next release!
This novel starts off with a bang (literally), and doesn't let up until the very end. To say it was an edge-of-your-seat thriller might be an understatement, as I was not only at my seat's edge, but I found myself constantly biting my finger nails and even pulling out some hair during the most intense scenes! Keeping that in mind, I believe this would be the perfect book to adapt to the screen.
This is a story about sisters Imogen and Beck, and their lifelong friend Tilda, who after a horrible tragedy decide to put their everyday troubles behind them and go backpacking in the Grand Canyon's backcountry. Naturally past tensions simmer, leading to intermittent bickering and even a couple shouting matchings. To add to their troubles, their food supply has inexplicably dwindled overnight. Is one of them eating more than their share? Could it be an animal? Is there another camper they're unaware of? Is someone out there watching them while they sleep? When they finally get down to the bottom of what's been happening their vacation quickly transforms into a nightmare and they have to put their differences aside to fight for survival! There was a stifling sense of foreboding throughout, which captivated me! The atmospheric Grand Canyon, coupled with the sense of dread really did it for me, I was invested, and I really couldn't turn the pages fast enough! What a wonderful way to come back from a not so stellar second book (IMO)!
Although this wasn't exactly the most original plot, the execution was on point and I believe this read much better than both of Stage's previous works, and I will go so far as to say this is definitely her best novel yet! There are some very brutal/graphic/triggering scenes that might not be for everyone, so I would cautiously recommend this to my fellow thriller/suspense/action/horror fans out there. One thing I know for certain, if you read this alone and at night, this one WILL keep you up!! Now that she's back in my good graces, I simply can't wait to read Stage's next release!
Read
August 23, 2021The Grand Canyon is a bucket list destination for many serious hikers, but few would choose it - picturesque as it may be - as the ideal place to kick the proverbial bucket. Yet the three central characters of Pittsburgh-based author Zoje Stage’s latest thriller, “Getaway,” stare that terrifying possibility in the face as a get-away-from-it-all girls’ trip turns life-threatening.
Read the rest of my review in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette!
Read the rest of my review in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette!
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January 9, 2022This is the story of two sisters and their friend who go backpacking in the Grand Canyon. Each woman brings with them some emotional baggage and trauma that they aren't communicating with each other. Some of this baggage is personal; secret. Some of it is past hurts and wrongs committed within the friend group. Along their journey, as they begin to "unpack" some of their feelings, they realize they might not be alone.
30% into the story and I was getting restless. A turn of events makes the story interesting again but quickly cools back down to a slow simmer. This story, in my opinion, never takes flight. It limps around on the ground and makes a lot of noise and flaps its wings but goddamn if it just doesn't roll over and give up. Full transparency: I skimmed through a lot of the last several chapters just to get a sense of what was happening so I could read the ending. I invested and read every word up until about 55% and by then, the frustration was settling in. I didn't quite connect with any of the women and I don't want to give anything away by discussing the catalyst for conflict so I'll just say, the additional element of surprise that could have been the stick of dynamite GETAWAY needed, turned out to be a dud. I wanted to love this because I enjoyed Stage's BABY TEETH so much, but I didn't and that's ok. I'll try again.
30% into the story and I was getting restless. A turn of events makes the story interesting again but quickly cools back down to a slow simmer. This story, in my opinion, never takes flight. It limps around on the ground and makes a lot of noise and flaps its wings but goddamn if it just doesn't roll over and give up. Full transparency: I skimmed through a lot of the last several chapters just to get a sense of what was happening so I could read the ending. I invested and read every word up until about 55% and by then, the frustration was settling in. I didn't quite connect with any of the women and I don't want to give anything away by discussing the catalyst for conflict so I'll just say, the additional element of surprise that could have been the stick of dynamite GETAWAY needed, turned out to be a dud. I wanted to love this because I enjoyed Stage's BABY TEETH so much, but I didn't and that's ok. I'll try again.
March 26, 2022
I finally quit. This gal sucks!
Done.
Done.
September 18, 2021
Zoje Stage’s “Baby Teeth” blew my mind, and I was addicted to the story from page one. When “Getaway” was released, I was just as excited to read it and went in with high expectations. Although it was definitely readable, “Getaway” was not at the level I expected.
Imogen, her sister Beck, and their friend Tilda embark on a bonding trip camping through the Grand Canyon, hoping to heal not only themselves, but their friendship as well. Imogen and Beck are experienced and active hikers (or at least they used to be), so all the girls are confident that their adventure will be a positive one. As the girls begin their endeavour, some of their food goes missing and on another night, their belongings are ransacked. Imogen is convinced they’re being followed, but the other girls brush it off. Then, the three girls meet Gale, an ex-convict who is on the run from the law and hiding in the Canyon. Imogen, Beck and Tilda now must fight for their lives, against more than the elements.
I’ve read a lot of “young females renew their friendship bonds over a hiking/camping trip” novels (“The Woods Are Always Watching” by Stephanie Perkins comes to mind, for one) lately, so it seems that this is going to be the start of a new trend. As a non-camper, non-hiker, completely-avoids-the-outside kind of person, novels like these can be enjoyable, even if I do get a little lost in the details. And “Getaway” has LOTS of details—in fact, the entire first half of the novel is an exhaustive and comprehensive list of the specifics regarding camping (prepping, packing) and the minute details of the Canyon trail. Although her descriptive settings are beautifully written, I was quickly bored.
The action comes on quickly in the latter half of the novel, and I finally became invested in the outcome. Due to the fact that the latter half of the novel had all of the entertainment I expected throughout the entirety of the novel, I felt unsatisfied. I wanted more Gale (his life story, the background) and more Imogen (her traumatic experiences are reduced to paragraphs mentioned in passing).
All of that being said, “Getaway” is a readable novel. Stage is a creative and talented writer, and her novel flows well. Her descriptive settings and broken characters create an atmospheric story, and Stage leaves a reader with thought-provoking, emotional life lessons. I enjoyed the characters in “Getaway”, and the ending was realistic and satisfying. I highly recommend going into “Getaway” without any expectations, and without drawing comparisons to “Baby Teeth”, and Stage delivers the camping/hostage novel that will appeal to a certain collection of readers.
Imogen, her sister Beck, and their friend Tilda embark on a bonding trip camping through the Grand Canyon, hoping to heal not only themselves, but their friendship as well. Imogen and Beck are experienced and active hikers (or at least they used to be), so all the girls are confident that their adventure will be a positive one. As the girls begin their endeavour, some of their food goes missing and on another night, their belongings are ransacked. Imogen is convinced they’re being followed, but the other girls brush it off. Then, the three girls meet Gale, an ex-convict who is on the run from the law and hiding in the Canyon. Imogen, Beck and Tilda now must fight for their lives, against more than the elements.
I’ve read a lot of “young females renew their friendship bonds over a hiking/camping trip” novels (“The Woods Are Always Watching” by Stephanie Perkins comes to mind, for one) lately, so it seems that this is going to be the start of a new trend. As a non-camper, non-hiker, completely-avoids-the-outside kind of person, novels like these can be enjoyable, even if I do get a little lost in the details. And “Getaway” has LOTS of details—in fact, the entire first half of the novel is an exhaustive and comprehensive list of the specifics regarding camping (prepping, packing) and the minute details of the Canyon trail. Although her descriptive settings are beautifully written, I was quickly bored.
The action comes on quickly in the latter half of the novel, and I finally became invested in the outcome. Due to the fact that the latter half of the novel had all of the entertainment I expected throughout the entirety of the novel, I felt unsatisfied. I wanted more Gale (his life story, the background) and more Imogen (her traumatic experiences are reduced to paragraphs mentioned in passing).
All of that being said, “Getaway” is a readable novel. Stage is a creative and talented writer, and her novel flows well. Her descriptive settings and broken characters create an atmospheric story, and Stage leaves a reader with thought-provoking, emotional life lessons. I enjoyed the characters in “Getaway”, and the ending was realistic and satisfying. I highly recommend going into “Getaway” without any expectations, and without drawing comparisons to “Baby Teeth”, and Stage delivers the camping/hostage novel that will appeal to a certain collection of readers.
March 26, 2021
Getaway is the third book by Zoje Stage that I have read, and it is by far my favorite. I loved the characters in this story - sisters Beck and Imogen, and their best friend from high school Tilda. Beck plans a camping trip in a remote part of the Grand Canyon - she has an motive - to bring out into the open "The thing" an event in their past that fractured their friendship and left them estranged. The trip starts well, but begins to get creepy as Imogen thinks that someone is following them. Imogen has some history with violent events - being present at the Synagogue shooting in Pittsburgh. She has become somewhat of a recluse, and hopes that this trip will give her the spark to revitalize her spirit. I don't want to give away too much of the plot - but Imogen's instincts are dead-on, and the three women are faced with a game of cat and mouse that could mean their lives. Full of suspense - and lots of nature and also discovery of the strength within. Really would give the book 4 1/2 stars if I could - the only thing I can find fault with is the "suspension of belief factor" that is frequently a problem for me in any suspense or thriller. Thank you to author Zoje Stage for a copy of the ARC!
December 30, 2021
“Idiots who go on vacations they are completely ill-equipped for” seems to be a new trend . . . and clearly one that I have not shied away from since I think I read three or four of them in 2021 alone. After reading Baby Teeth I definitely channel my inner Veruca any time I see Zoje Stage’s name come across my screen and I was lucky enough to get a publisher copy of this one. Sadly it completely missed the mark for me. Not only was it real slow as far as plotting went, but I don’t need to be bored to tears with details of each rock on the trail when I have signed up for a spine-tingling edge of your seat type of experience. And math is your friend. 3 vs. 1 should have ended this one before it even started. It didn’t take long for my opinion regarding what was going on with Imogen, Beck, and Tilda to be along the lines of . . . .
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
March 28, 2022
This is the worst book that I have actually finished in a long long time. I was a little bit hesitant about this book based off of the synopsis but I figured what the heck, I liked Baby Teeth a lot by Zoje Stage, why not give this one a shot. I own Wonderland by Stage too and now I'm really scared to read it.
Here's what I have to say about this book. If three grown, healthy and strong women manage to get abducted by one scrawny, injured man on the run, they deserve everything they get. I'm not even joking. The amount of times that I as rolling my eyes in this book I can't believe my optic nerves didn't just snap right off.
This book was trash, there was pretty much nothing believable whatsoever about it and in this scenario I COULD NOT suspend my disbelief that's really all I have to say.
Here's what I have to say about this book. If three grown, healthy and strong women manage to get abducted by one scrawny, injured man on the run, they deserve everything they get. I'm not even joking. The amount of times that I as rolling my eyes in this book I can't believe my optic nerves didn't just snap right off.
This book was trash, there was pretty much nothing believable whatsoever about it and in this scenario I COULD NOT suspend my disbelief that's really all I have to say.
December 28, 2022
The first thing I have to announce is the premise of this book - being on an adventure with my girls, hiking in a remote place and discovering *we’re not alone* is a terrifying idea to me. And as I read on, the idea became more of a nightmare.
The second thing is, when I was originally drawn to this book, the cover was so pretty - very appealing, even with the title ‘Getaway.’ Now, the covers red haze is ominous, though still pretty.
I loved Getaway from start to finish. As a casual hiker, and a thriller lover, this book was right down up my ally (I tried to think of a clever way to say that with “trail” or something but none of it worked lol). The writing, characters development, works building was all fantastic. In fact, I had to force myself to stop reading to be bothered with life (work, kids, sleep - all in the way!) because (avoiding all spoilers) I had to know what was going to happen. I was *stressed out* for our three heroines.
Getaway would make a great movie.
Last remark, a bit petty. I don’t get the a lot of the low reviews on this book. Did we read the same book? Getaway? By Zoje Stage? With the red Grand Canyon on the cover? Because the “did not finish” And one/two stars was not my experience at all!
The second thing is, when I was originally drawn to this book, the cover was so pretty - very appealing, even with the title ‘Getaway.’ Now, the covers red haze is ominous, though still pretty.
I loved Getaway from start to finish. As a casual hiker, and a thriller lover, this book was right down up my ally (I tried to think of a clever way to say that with “trail” or something but none of it worked lol). The writing, characters development, works building was all fantastic. In fact, I had to force myself to stop reading to be bothered with life (work, kids, sleep - all in the way!) because (avoiding all spoilers) I had to know what was going to happen. I was *stressed out* for our three heroines.
Getaway would make a great movie.
Last remark, a bit petty. I don’t get the a lot of the low reviews on this book. Did we read the same book? Getaway? By Zoje Stage? With the red Grand Canyon on the cover? Because the “did not finish” And one/two stars was not my experience at all!
January 21, 2022
120 pages in and I am officially bored to tears.
I am also officially done with Zoje Stage. Life is just too short....
2 Smile Erasing Stars
I am also officially done with Zoje Stage. Life is just too short....
2 Smile Erasing Stars
May 22, 2021
This was a page turner! An engrossing terrifying read, yet manageable amount of terror and suspense to keep you reading. I've never been backpacking, but can only imagine how hellish it could be to confront some kind of crazy in the middle of nowhere with minimal supplies. I love the characters in this book. The personal, interpersonal and physical journeys they traversed to survive such a nightmare was very satisfying.
Loved it, highly recommend, it's the perfect summer read!!
Loved it, highly recommend, it's the perfect summer read!!
October 14, 2021
So my expectations for this one weren't entirely met. Based on Zoje Stage's previous novels, I went into this book thinking it would be horror. I was expecting a creature feature 'The Descent' style plot, but this isn't horror. It's a survivalist thriller.
That's not to say this book isn't laced with real horror. The opening scene deals with Imogen witnessing a mass shooting at her synagogue. That scene really sets the tone for the rest of the book. Issues of ethnicity, race and sexual orientation are explored. Additionally, this book delves into PTSD and the pre-Me Too mentality on rape. There is some heavy content in this book, and it was handled very tactfully.
The Grand Canyon setting is stunning, and I enjoyed the hiking/nature segments very much. This book is a thriller, but it did something even horror stories can't do: It made me feel uncomfortable. It surpassed tension and dread and went straight for the jugular. I was so uncomfortable that, about halfway through, I actually considered not finishing it. Glad I did though because this story gave me a lot to think about.
That's not to say this book isn't laced with real horror. The opening scene deals with Imogen witnessing a mass shooting at her synagogue. That scene really sets the tone for the rest of the book. Issues of ethnicity, race and sexual orientation are explored. Additionally, this book delves into PTSD and the pre-Me Too mentality on rape. There is some heavy content in this book, and it was handled very tactfully.
The Grand Canyon setting is stunning, and I enjoyed the hiking/nature segments very much. This book is a thriller, but it did something even horror stories can't do: It made me feel uncomfortable. It surpassed tension and dread and went straight for the jugular. I was so uncomfortable that, about halfway through, I actually considered not finishing it. Glad I did though because this story gave me a lot to think about.
August 29, 2021
This book relays the story of three women on a camping trip. Imogen, 34, witnessed a mass shooting several months ago and that made her become a recluse. Her older sister Beck, a doctor, decides to take Imogen on a backpacking trip in the Grand Canyon like they did when they were younger. Beck also invites Tilda who had been Imogen's best friend in school. Imogen and Tilda grew apart after an "incident". The first night at camp someone stole some of their food and that's just the start of their problems.
I haven't read a book by this author before, although I knew she had a big hit in Baby Teeth last year. The story contains lots of information on camping, campsites, equipment, backpacking, etc. I am not a fan of camping but I recognized much of the procedures because my husband camped a lot many years ago. If you like camping, you may enjoy this book more than I did.
I haven't read a book by this author before, although I knew she had a big hit in Baby Teeth last year. The story contains lots of information on camping, campsites, equipment, backpacking, etc. I am not a fan of camping but I recognized much of the procedures because my husband camped a lot many years ago. If you like camping, you may enjoy this book more than I did.
August 15, 2021
First off I just want to say thank you, thank you, thank you sooo much Zoje Stage for adding me to the list of people to receive an ARC of your book!!! I added my name but honestly did not think I would receive one! Imagine the surprise and joy when I opened my mailbox that day and opened the envelope!!! Let's just say there was maybe a little squeal and a happy dance!!!
I'm still gathering my thoughts and will post a longer review later!
I'm still gathering my thoughts and will post a longer review later!
September 3, 2021
Zoje Stage’s first two novels, BABY TEETH and WONDERLAND, pretty much could be categorized as pure horror. I am a huge fan of the genre, and she has quickly become one of its best new voices. This is what made my experience with GETAWAY so much fun; while there are horrific moments, this is a psychological thriller of the highest order. It’s a story that will get under your skin and keep you feeling uneasy right through to the dramatic ending.
The prologue belongs to Imogen and details the most traumatic moment of her life when she witnessed a shooting at a synagogue. This unthinkable experience has changed and shaped her life in many ways. She has turned her angst into a writing career and has been able to find some catharsis with it. To continue her personal and spiritual regrowth, Imogen agrees to join her sister Beck and their best friend Tilda for a ladies-only trip deep into the Grand Canyon --- the type of excursion that Imogen and Beck used to go on with their parents when they were younger.
The three women could not be more different. Beck is a doctor who has a partner at home; they are expecting their first child. Tilda was a child star, having appeared on an “American Idol”-type show, and she is embarking on writing the story of that near-famous experience. They prepare for this adventure for months, with Beck pulling the largest part of the planning load. The trip is also an attempt to rekindle their once-tight friendship with Tilda, who Imogen knows helped her fill a critical void and was instrumental in getting her through high school.
Beck holds the trio to a lot of small rituals, one of which includes leaving their cell phones in her vehicle as they are useless out in the wilds of the Grand Canyon. Their trek will take them through some dangerous and challenging parts of the Canyon, as well as many majestic locales. Still, there is obvious tension, especially between Imogen and Tilda. Imogen resents that her career as a serious writer has paled in comparison to the success of Tilda’s own biographical release.
The trip is not without its issues as they find their camp and tents ransacked during one of their daytime treks with some key items and a lot of food taken. It won’t be long before the culprit is revealed…and boy, what an impact this character will have on the tale. At no point will you feel good about the situation and most likely will turn each page in fearful anticipation of what might happen next. I will not spoil the fun in this review, but I will say that Imogen will step up and make a bold choice that will take the book to an entirely different level.
GETAWAY is not for the squeamish, and it turns out that Zoje Stage has been planning the book for a long time. In the Acknowledgements, she recalls a trip to the Grand Canyon with her family when she was young. At one point a strange backpacker came upon them. He just kept on walking, but Stage always wondered to herself: What would have happened if he had stopped at our camp and not left? Thankfully, we now have a fictional response to her long-burning question, and it makes for an unforgettable reading experience.
Reviewed by Ray Palen
The prologue belongs to Imogen and details the most traumatic moment of her life when she witnessed a shooting at a synagogue. This unthinkable experience has changed and shaped her life in many ways. She has turned her angst into a writing career and has been able to find some catharsis with it. To continue her personal and spiritual regrowth, Imogen agrees to join her sister Beck and their best friend Tilda for a ladies-only trip deep into the Grand Canyon --- the type of excursion that Imogen and Beck used to go on with their parents when they were younger.
The three women could not be more different. Beck is a doctor who has a partner at home; they are expecting their first child. Tilda was a child star, having appeared on an “American Idol”-type show, and she is embarking on writing the story of that near-famous experience. They prepare for this adventure for months, with Beck pulling the largest part of the planning load. The trip is also an attempt to rekindle their once-tight friendship with Tilda, who Imogen knows helped her fill a critical void and was instrumental in getting her through high school.
Beck holds the trio to a lot of small rituals, one of which includes leaving their cell phones in her vehicle as they are useless out in the wilds of the Grand Canyon. Their trek will take them through some dangerous and challenging parts of the Canyon, as well as many majestic locales. Still, there is obvious tension, especially between Imogen and Tilda. Imogen resents that her career as a serious writer has paled in comparison to the success of Tilda’s own biographical release.
The trip is not without its issues as they find their camp and tents ransacked during one of their daytime treks with some key items and a lot of food taken. It won’t be long before the culprit is revealed…and boy, what an impact this character will have on the tale. At no point will you feel good about the situation and most likely will turn each page in fearful anticipation of what might happen next. I will not spoil the fun in this review, but I will say that Imogen will step up and make a bold choice that will take the book to an entirely different level.
GETAWAY is not for the squeamish, and it turns out that Zoje Stage has been planning the book for a long time. In the Acknowledgements, she recalls a trip to the Grand Canyon with her family when she was young. At one point a strange backpacker came upon them. He just kept on walking, but Stage always wondered to herself: What would have happened if he had stopped at our camp and not left? Thankfully, we now have a fictional response to her long-burning question, and it makes for an unforgettable reading experience.
Reviewed by Ray Palen
March 23, 2021
No doubt in my mind that this book is 5 stars! What a journey! What a ride! I am already in serious book withdrawals and I just finished. I don’t think I can accurately put my feelings into this review.
I have said MANY times and will continue to say, I don’t know sometimes if a book just finds you at a right time or if it’s entirely that it’s just that good of a book. I think both. Books definitely hit you different depending on where and what you’ve just done or gone through. I think it also depends a lot on the genre and characters and writing. This genre is ME. Zoje’s writing is SUPERB. And the characters are REAL. I felt every page. I was in it 100%. I read fast and with a purpose.
I don’t even know what to say in regards to the plot. I don’t want to give ANYTHING away, so I guess I can’t say much! But it flowed beautifully. Highs and lows. Some funny moments, lots of heart pounding moments, and truthfully some soul searching and sad moments. Zoje put her heart into this one completely, her heart and her thoughts and I felt that. I felt that hard.
And let me say, not one part let me down. Built up perfectly and the ending was *chef’s kiss* where sometimes an ending can be a big ‘ol *fart noise*.
I DID start reading this a mere two days after visiting the Grand Canyon and having a nice photo shoot of the book for Zoje at the Grand Canyon. I think that affected me. I loved seeing the Grand Canyon and I love natural wonders of the world. The ONLY thing that would have made the experience of reading this book any better would have been to be camping in the Canyon in the locations in the book while reading it. BUT...I am NOT a camper lol so that’s a no go for me! I do love hiking but only for nice day trips.
DO go get this book on August 17th when it comes out! I know I will be securing a finished copy for my shelves and getting some as gifts for my family as well ❤️
I have said MANY times and will continue to say, I don’t know sometimes if a book just finds you at a right time or if it’s entirely that it’s just that good of a book. I think both. Books definitely hit you different depending on where and what you’ve just done or gone through. I think it also depends a lot on the genre and characters and writing. This genre is ME. Zoje’s writing is SUPERB. And the characters are REAL. I felt every page. I was in it 100%. I read fast and with a purpose.
I don’t even know what to say in regards to the plot. I don’t want to give ANYTHING away, so I guess I can’t say much! But it flowed beautifully. Highs and lows. Some funny moments, lots of heart pounding moments, and truthfully some soul searching and sad moments. Zoje put her heart into this one completely, her heart and her thoughts and I felt that. I felt that hard.
And let me say, not one part let me down. Built up perfectly and the ending was *chef’s kiss* where sometimes an ending can be a big ‘ol *fart noise*.
I DID start reading this a mere two days after visiting the Grand Canyon and having a nice photo shoot of the book for Zoje at the Grand Canyon. I think that affected me. I loved seeing the Grand Canyon and I love natural wonders of the world. The ONLY thing that would have made the experience of reading this book any better would have been to be camping in the Canyon in the locations in the book while reading it. BUT...I am NOT a camper lol so that’s a no go for me! I do love hiking but only for nice day trips.
DO go get this book on August 17th when it comes out! I know I will be securing a finished copy for my shelves and getting some as gifts for my family as well ❤️
September 7, 2022
DNF @ 45%
For some reason from the summary [or maybe that this got recommended to me from a horror website where most of the other books were very different than this] I thought that what was stalking them was like a supernatural creature or something and when it turned out to be a guy I pretty much lost all interest in this. I'm sure it will be perfectly enjoyable to people who like to read that kind of thing but it's just not my cup of tea and also I found the whole set up to be kind of unbelievable in a 'they cannot really be this stupid' kind of way.
Like you're telling me they guarded their food after some of it was stolen but just left the water tablets sitting around? And then they just stopped in the middle of the night and didn't even have someone stay up to keep guard after they got away the first time? And really three of them can't take on one guy after we're told over and over again how in shape they are? I know you have to suspend some disbelief in horror stories because if the characters aren't stupid then often nothing would ever happen but I was just so annoyed with them and that combined with really not liking the whole 'man stalking a group of women' storyline in general made me put this down.
For some reason from the summary [or maybe that this got recommended to me from a horror website where most of the other books were very different than this] I thought that what was stalking them was like a supernatural creature or something and when it turned out to be a guy I pretty much lost all interest in this. I'm sure it will be perfectly enjoyable to people who like to read that kind of thing but it's just not my cup of tea and also I found the whole set up to be kind of unbelievable in a 'they cannot really be this stupid' kind of way.
Like you're telling me they guarded their food after some of it was stolen but just left the water tablets sitting around? And then they just stopped in the middle of the night and didn't even have someone stay up to keep guard after they got away the first time? And really three of them can't take on one guy after we're told over and over again how in shape they are? I know you have to suspend some disbelief in horror stories because if the characters aren't stupid then often nothing would ever happen but I was just so annoyed with them and that combined with really not liking the whole 'man stalking a group of women' storyline in general made me put this down.
July 15, 2021
I received a free e-copy of Getaway by Zoje Stage from Goodreads for my honest review.
Three women reunite and go on a backpacking trip. Things go terribly wrong. They find themselves in some terrible situations that just keep getting worse. I enjoyed the characters in the book but I struggled connecting to the things that were happening.
Three women reunite and go on a backpacking trip. Things go terribly wrong. They find themselves in some terrible situations that just keep getting worse. I enjoyed the characters in the book but I struggled connecting to the things that were happening.
July 12, 2021
Thank you Goodreads for a copy of this book! Wow! What a scary story!! I loved it!
June 17, 2021
While Stage's previous novels were Horror, this falls firmly into Thriller territory. Sometimes the line between the two can be vague, and when there's no supernatural element it's even less clear, same for survival-stories which are often grouped into Horror, so I'll understand if others disagree with me. But I can see plenty of people who don't read Horror reading this.
I liked this just fine, perhaps the simplest review I've ever given. :) Survival stories are not my favorite subgenre, so there's that, and to me I liked the first half more than the second, since we got to dive so much deeper into the relationships between the characters. Beck and Imogen are sisters, Tilda was their third musketeer as teenagers. They haven't been close as adults for a few reasons, mostly due to a falling out during college that is vague early in the book. Their intense multiday hike through the Grand Canyon is organized by Beck as a way to get them back together and specifically to help Imogen, who's been unable to leave her home after PTSD from a shooting at her synagogue that happened just as she was about to step inside. There are a lot of undercurrents between the three of them and to be honest I was more interested in those than in what other bad things might happen on the trip. Which is probably more of a me problem than a book problem.
As for the plot itself, it is nicely done. Seeing things through Imogen's eyes is a smart way to go, she's the most paranoid of the group (although I admit she seems to agree to this trip a little too easily) and often relies on Beck to be the one to make things happen. Imogen's skittish worrying keeps things moving and makes any efforts or plans big plot developments with a lot of stakes. I do have some thoughts on the ending, which I didn't love, after a spoiler tag so as not to ruin the major plot which the jacket copy (shockingly) does not spoil.
For me this suffered a little in comparison to LOST CANYON by Nina Revoyr, an underread gem with a similar plot.
Major content warning here is for rape, which is a plot point a few times over and a theme that is returned to, though mostly off the page, including rape with threat of violence. Anti-semitic violence included, though mostly off page. Otherwise mostly a variety of mostly minor ethnic/racial/gender/sexuality slurs.
I liked this just fine, perhaps the simplest review I've ever given. :) Survival stories are not my favorite subgenre, so there's that, and to me I liked the first half more than the second, since we got to dive so much deeper into the relationships between the characters. Beck and Imogen are sisters, Tilda was their third musketeer as teenagers. They haven't been close as adults for a few reasons, mostly due to a falling out during college that is vague early in the book. Their intense multiday hike through the Grand Canyon is organized by Beck as a way to get them back together and specifically to help Imogen, who's been unable to leave her home after PTSD from a shooting at her synagogue that happened just as she was about to step inside. There are a lot of undercurrents between the three of them and to be honest I was more interested in those than in what other bad things might happen on the trip. Which is probably more of a me problem than a book problem.
As for the plot itself, it is nicely done. Seeing things through Imogen's eyes is a smart way to go, she's the most paranoid of the group (although I admit she seems to agree to this trip a little too easily) and often relies on Beck to be the one to make things happen. Imogen's skittish worrying keeps things moving and makes any efforts or plans big plot developments with a lot of stakes. I do have some thoughts on the ending, which I didn't love, after a spoiler tag so as not to ruin the major plot which the jacket copy (shockingly) does not spoil.
For me this suffered a little in comparison to LOST CANYON by Nina Revoyr, an underread gem with a similar plot.
Major content warning here is for rape, which is a plot point a few times over and a theme that is returned to, though mostly off the page, including rape with threat of violence. Anti-semitic violence included, though mostly off page. Otherwise mostly a variety of mostly minor ethnic/racial/gender/sexuality slurs.
September 1, 2021
Fantastic! Zoje Stage is so talented!
I always recommend 'Baby Teeth' to friends so I was excited to start the author's latest book. From the beginning I was thrilled to see that the main protagonist Imogen was Jewish! Yes! Imogen survived a mass shooting in Pittsburgh and understandably suffers from PTSD and survivors guilt. Added to that horrific event is another trauma that Imogen suffered as a college student which impacted the rest of her adult life.
Imogen's sister Beck organizes a camping trip in the Grand Canyon with their mutual friend Tilda. The women are experienced campers and this will not be an easy hiking trip. The author builds the tension perfectly right from the start, I was never sure what was going to happen but I knew it wasn't going to be pleasant.
Soon the group realizes someone is stalking them and ransacking their equipment and food. Since all of their supplies have been carefully planned in advance and rationed for the camping trip, this is a serious issue. But things really take a turn for the worse when they confront the thief. The women are in grave danger which grows more and more grim by the day. It seems that only their outdoor skills and their wits will save them. To give anything else away would be a spoiler, and really would do a disservice to this book. The group's differences and old grievances, which have been simmering for years, all come to the surface and threaten their survival.
The author ramps up the tension and the thrills right from the start. The wildly beautiful but treacherous terrain of the Grand Canyon is a constant threat. They are smart but their situation becomes dire very quickly and it seems they will not be able to outsmart the person who threatens them.
The ending completely surprised me and while I did not agree with it at first, after thinking about it for a few days, I totally agree with it. 'Getaway' is not only a wonderful thriller, it is also a story of friendship, family, love, and overcoming your past.
(Thanks to the publisher for providing an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.)
I always recommend 'Baby Teeth' to friends so I was excited to start the author's latest book. From the beginning I was thrilled to see that the main protagonist Imogen was Jewish! Yes! Imogen survived a mass shooting in Pittsburgh and understandably suffers from PTSD and survivors guilt. Added to that horrific event is another trauma that Imogen suffered as a college student which impacted the rest of her adult life.
Imogen's sister Beck organizes a camping trip in the Grand Canyon with their mutual friend Tilda. The women are experienced campers and this will not be an easy hiking trip. The author builds the tension perfectly right from the start, I was never sure what was going to happen but I knew it wasn't going to be pleasant.
Soon the group realizes someone is stalking them and ransacking their equipment and food. Since all of their supplies have been carefully planned in advance and rationed for the camping trip, this is a serious issue. But things really take a turn for the worse when they confront the thief. The women are in grave danger which grows more and more grim by the day. It seems that only their outdoor skills and their wits will save them. To give anything else away would be a spoiler, and really would do a disservice to this book. The group's differences and old grievances, which have been simmering for years, all come to the surface and threaten their survival.
The author ramps up the tension and the thrills right from the start. The wildly beautiful but treacherous terrain of the Grand Canyon is a constant threat. They are smart but their situation becomes dire very quickly and it seems they will not be able to outsmart the person who threatens them.
The ending completely surprised me and while I did not agree with it at first, after thinking about it for a few days, I totally agree with it. 'Getaway' is not only a wonderful thriller, it is also a story of friendship, family, love, and overcoming your past.
(Thanks to the publisher for providing an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.)
September 13, 2021
2.5 Stars. This is the first book I have read by Zoje Stage and I had such high expectations. The synopsis sounded incredible and just what I like in horror novels: an isolated setting and a stalker! Unfortunately, I was so let down by this novel. It was pretty slow in the beginning but when it did pick up pace, I was excited to see where it would go; however, soon the novel became repetitive and boring. There was too much detailed information about backpacking, the trails, and camping logistics and not enough focus on the interaction between the three women and their conflicts with one another. I found the character’s decisions pretty unbelievable at times and this book put me in a reading slump. The characters felt very one dimensional and I wanted to like them more to root for them but I found it difficult because of the writing style. I’m sad because the backstory could have been fleshed out so well but the execution lacked.
July 12, 2021
Kept me guessing while also teaching me a ton about canyon hiking. Like Zoje’s previous book Wonderland, I loved how the setting was practically its own character.
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