What do you think?
Rate this book
The Game
To save their life, you have to play.*The #1 audio bestseller*‘Subversive and gripping’ S J Watson‘Dark, fiendish, riveting’ Janice Hallett‘Exciting and original’ Simon McCleave‘This year’s must-read thriller’ Adam Croft___Across the globe, five strangers receive a horrifying message from an unknown number.THE PERSON YOU LOVE MOST IS IN DANGER.To save them, each must play The Game – a sinister unknown entity that has a single there can only be one winner.IF YOU LOSE, YOUR LOVED ONE WILL DIE.But what is The Game – and why have they been chosen?There’s only one thing each of them knows for they’ll do anything to win…WELCOME TO THE GAME. YOU’VE JUST STARTED PLAYING .___A breakneck thriller filled with non-stop suspense, perfect for fans of Harlan Coben, Mark Dawson and Terry Hayes’ I Am Pilgrim .Readers love The ‘This was an absolute belter of a book !’‘ Wow! Can absolutely see this book being made into a film . . . The whole book pulled me in straight away and I couldn't put it down. Full of twists from start to finish , twists that I never saw coming!’‘Had me gripped . . . I couldn't breathe until I finished it ’‘This is one of the most original stories I've read for a while. Just read it! You won't regret it.’‘What an utterly terrifying thriller this was! It doesn’t get scarier than this…’‘Horrifyingly credible . . . This is a fast-paced, menacing and dark read. Grips from the off and doesn’t let go until that very last page.’‘This book was chilling and tense and will have you on the edge of your seat .’‘Unique, cinematic and fast-paced. Unputdownable and thrilling page-turner. Highly recommended.’‘I love a story that is a bit different and unique and this certainly was. A thought provoking story that chilled me to the bone . . . Will have you up all night. Such a cleverly written story ’‘Fast-paced, tense, atmospheric and so full of suspense . . . I didn’t know what to expect when . I couldn’t put this book down it was completely gripping.’‘From the first few pages the adrenaline rush never lets up .’
448 pages, Paperback
First published May 12, 2022
261 people are currently reading
6448 people want to read
About the author
Scott Kershaw
3 books55 followersScott Kershaw lives in Lincolnshire, in a Victorian cottage that was formerly ruled by mice. He likes the crackle of vinyl, the smell of paperbacks, the taste of a stiff drink and the view from a front row barrier. He’s getting too old and heavy for crowd-surfing, but that rarely stops him from trying. His first real love was cinema. His beagle, Darwin, is the one true king of dogs. As a child, Scott believed in monsters. Sometimes he still does. The Game is his debut thriller.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 630 reviews
June 15, 2022
3.5 stars, rounded up
I had a difficult time putting this one down, it has a Saw-like premise and everything centers around five people, seemingly randomly selected, who must participate in "The Game"--their loved one has been taken and the only way to save the person's life is to play The Game. Why these five? And can they complete the task?
There are some clunky parts to this book, although it's gripping and intriguing, there are some characters I didn't connect with and others I didn't really feel like I knew their overall motivation. When all is said and done in the end, there are a couple of loose threads not tied up, but I was fairly satisfied with the conclusion.
A warning: there are some definite triggers for people who have them. There is a dog death, which doesn't occur on page but the after-results are, and it is referred to a few other times throughout the book. Other triggers include
At the end, I thought this book was a little more melancholy than I was expecting, and although it is a captivating mystery to figure out what is going on, I did end up feeling pretty sad. Great premise and decent execution, if you're in the mood for an unusual book this one might hit the spot.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
I had a difficult time putting this one down, it has a Saw-like premise and everything centers around five people, seemingly randomly selected, who must participate in "The Game"--their loved one has been taken and the only way to save the person's life is to play The Game. Why these five? And can they complete the task?
There are some clunky parts to this book, although it's gripping and intriguing, there are some characters I didn't connect with and others I didn't really feel like I knew their overall motivation. When all is said and done in the end, there are a couple of loose threads not tied up, but I was fairly satisfied with the conclusion.
A warning: there are some definite triggers for people who have them. There is a dog death, which doesn't occur on page but the after-results are, and it is referred to a few other times throughout the book. Other triggers include
At the end, I thought this book was a little more melancholy than I was expecting, and although it is a captivating mystery to figure out what is going on, I did end up feeling pretty sad. Great premise and decent execution, if you're in the mood for an unusual book this one might hit the spot.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
May 30, 2022
Five random strangers receive a text message on their phone. Someone they love has been taken, and their life depends on if they can win The Game. The rules are simple: You can't tell no one and must follow the instructions given. There can only be one winner. If you lose your loved one dies. The timer starts NOW.
This was a wild ride. Soon as I think I have it all figured out, the book goes off in a different direction. I love books like that. Makes it harder for me, and I can enjoy an amazing reveal. Recommend!
This was a wild ride. Soon as I think I have it all figured out, the book goes off in a different direction. I love books like that. Makes it harder for me, and I can enjoy an amazing reveal. Recommend!
August 1, 2022
Yeah but no! This one sounded good in theory and it started off okay. But the longer it went on the less I was liking it. I couldn’t see the point to the story.
Five people are invited, well let’s not mince our words, forced to play this sick game that doesn’t make any sense. There can be only one winner. If they lose, the person they hold most dear will be killed. So they have to drop everything and head off into the unknown. They are being monitored and they are given time limits to achieve certain milestones. They have to work together but they also know they are competing against each other.
Once you realise what precipitated this whole train wreck you feel some sympathy but, at the same time, you think just maybe there could have been a better way achieve the same outcome. This is not about money or blackmail, no, it is purely about revenge. And yet the innocent are to be punished along with those perceived to be guilty which makes a mockery, in my mind, of any moral high ground the aggrieved person may have been claiming.
After a recent DNF I was determined to finish this but I can’t say I enjoyed it. It was a rather sordid, sad tale that may well be the sort of thing that goes on in the seedy recesses of the dark web but I have really had a gutful of stories about abuses of various kinds and I suppose my rating also reflects that. This was another library book and I’m hoping my next reads are a little more uplifting.
Five people are invited, well let’s not mince our words, forced to play this sick game that doesn’t make any sense. There can be only one winner. If they lose, the person they hold most dear will be killed. So they have to drop everything and head off into the unknown. They are being monitored and they are given time limits to achieve certain milestones. They have to work together but they also know they are competing against each other.
Once you realise what precipitated this whole train wreck you feel some sympathy but, at the same time, you think just maybe there could have been a better way achieve the same outcome. This is not about money or blackmail, no, it is purely about revenge. And yet the innocent are to be punished along with those perceived to be guilty which makes a mockery, in my mind, of any moral high ground the aggrieved person may have been claiming.
After a recent DNF I was determined to finish this but I can’t say I enjoyed it. It was a rather sordid, sad tale that may well be the sort of thing that goes on in the seedy recesses of the dark web but I have really had a gutful of stories about abuses of various kinds and I suppose my rating also reflects that. This was another library book and I’m hoping my next reads are a little more uplifting.
January 30, 2025
3.75⭐
Genre ~ thriller
Publication date ~ May 12, 2022
Publisher ~ Harper Collins
Est Page Count ~ 441
Audio length ~ 11 hours 37 minutes
Narrator ~ Ethan Kelly
POV ~ multiple
Featuring ~ debut, death of a dog, rape, sexual assault
There are 5 players ~ each live in a different location around the world.
Player 1 ~ Maggie ~ Minnesota ~ 9 year old son, Jackson, taken
Player 2 ~ Brett ~ NYC ~ 40 year old best friend, Craig, taken
Player 3 ~ Sarah ~ England~ 2 year old daughter, Hannah, taken
Player 4 ~ Noah ~ France ~ 25 year old, fiance, Sofia, taken
Player 5 ~ Linda ~ England ~ 17 year old daughter, Alyssa, taken
The alternating chapters really kept me on the edge of my seat and I just couldn't wait until The Game began. I was very interested in how it would all play out and to see how these characters were inevitably all connected. As an added bonus, halfway in we get chapters told by those taken that really kept the story flowing quickly.
As much as I was excited and intrigued for most of it, the ending was a bit lackluster. I don't know what I expected, but, meh, I wanted something else. It wasn't as neatly wrapped up as I would have liked.
Overall, this was gripping and intense at times and I'd definitely read this author again.
Side bar ~ so the author is from England, so I expect the different spelling of certain words. However, I think it would have been a nice added touch for him to write the English spelling when we were on the USA peoples chapters. IE ~ kerb ~ curb, favour ~ favor
Narration notes:
I did not listen to this one, but am just giving the above info for reference. With 5 different POV's I think this would be intense on audio, but there's only one narrator so that's a missed opportunity in my opinion.
*Many thanks to Sophia at Harper Collins 360 for sending me a paperback ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ X
Genre ~ thriller
Publication date ~ May 12, 2022
Publisher ~ Harper Collins
Est Page Count ~ 441
Audio length ~ 11 hours 37 minutes
Narrator ~ Ethan Kelly
POV ~ multiple
Featuring ~ debut, death of a dog, rape, sexual assault
There are 5 players ~ each live in a different location around the world.
Player 1 ~ Maggie ~ Minnesota ~ 9 year old son, Jackson, taken
Player 2 ~ Brett ~ NYC ~ 40 year old best friend, Craig, taken
Player 3 ~ Sarah ~ England~ 2 year old daughter, Hannah, taken
Player 4 ~ Noah ~ France ~ 25 year old, fiance, Sofia, taken
Player 5 ~ Linda ~ England ~ 17 year old daughter, Alyssa, taken
The alternating chapters really kept me on the edge of my seat and I just couldn't wait until The Game began. I was very interested in how it would all play out and to see how these characters were inevitably all connected. As an added bonus, halfway in we get chapters told by those taken that really kept the story flowing quickly.
As much as I was excited and intrigued for most of it, the ending was a bit lackluster. I don't know what I expected, but, meh, I wanted something else. It wasn't as neatly wrapped up as I would have liked.
Overall, this was gripping and intense at times and I'd definitely read this author again.
Side bar ~ so the author is from England, so I expect the different spelling of certain words. However, I think it would have been a nice added touch for him to write the English spelling when we were on the USA peoples chapters. IE ~ kerb ~ curb, favour ~ favor
Narration notes:
I did not listen to this one, but am just giving the above info for reference. With 5 different POV's I think this would be intense on audio, but there's only one narrator so that's a missed opportunity in my opinion.
*Many thanks to Sophia at Harper Collins 360 for sending me a paperback ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ X
July 21, 2022
The game for this debut novel says it all in the title. Someone close to you have been kidnapped and you have to play the game with 5 other people.
Gripping and thrilling it made for a good read. With POV's from all the characters you really live the story. I really liked it.
Gripping and thrilling it made for a good read. With POV's from all the characters you really live the story. I really liked it.
June 9, 2022
Well, I wasn’t planning on saying anything.
This was clearly a huge disappointment for me.
It was very promising, as started very well, but unfortunately it became a disaster.
There was nothing wrong with the writing or its structure, but the development of the storyline wasn’t well executed.
There are so many details missing.
I think that the author tried too hard.
There are 60 chapters and mostly are short.
Although this is a fast read, it wasn’t gripping, at least not for me. I was bored throughout the book. Not once I was thrilled or emotionally engaged.
The characters are all unlikeable, except for one who I did feel some sympathy, especially because of her awful husband.
Anyways… at the end everything became too far-fetched.
The conclusion was really bad.
This was clearly a huge disappointment for me.
It was very promising, as started very well, but unfortunately it became a disaster.
There was nothing wrong with the writing or its structure, but the development of the storyline wasn’t well executed.
There are so many details missing.
I think that the author tried too hard.
There are 60 chapters and mostly are short.
Although this is a fast read, it wasn’t gripping, at least not for me. I was bored throughout the book. Not once I was thrilled or emotionally engaged.
The characters are all unlikeable, except for one who I did feel some sympathy, especially because of her awful husband.
Anyways… at the end everything became too far-fetched.
The conclusion was really bad.
June 28, 2023
The Game is absolutely a book which I can see being made into a movie or a Netflix series very soon. It reads as fast paced as if you are watching one of those, you are compelled to read on and it doesn’t feel like it’s over 400 pages long. Grips you right from the start!
The premise and build up are (in my opinion) better than the conclusion and what has brought the five “players” together to play this game of life and death. The initial twist and reveal of who is behind The Game felt good though.
The story really plays into the notion of what you put out on the internet never really goes away and how that reality affects the players.
Overall, it is well-written and a great first thriller effort by this author.
Five people from all corners of the globe are brought together in Northern England to play The Game; Maggie, Brett, Noah, Sarah, and Linda. There is also an enigmatic sixth player who appears to be behind the scenes at first.
But why have they all been summoned on one place to play this high-stakes game which could result in the death of somebody they love?
Everybody has their vice. Everybody has their flaws.
DEAR PLAYER, THE PERSON YOU LOVE MOST IS IN DANGER. TO SAVE THEM, YOU MUST PLAY THE GAME. THE RULES ARE: THERE CAN ONLY BE ONE WINNER. IF YOU LOSE, YOUR LOVED ONE WILL DIE. ALL PLAYERS ENTER ALONE. DO NOT SHARE THIS MESSAGE. DO NOT SEEK HELP. WELCOME TO THE GAME. YOU’VE JUST STARTED PLAYING.
3.5 Stars (rounded up to 4!)
The premise and build up are (in my opinion) better than the conclusion and what has brought the five “players” together to play this game of life and death. The initial twist and reveal of who is behind The Game felt good though.
The story really plays into the notion of what you put out on the internet never really goes away and how that reality affects the players.
Overall, it is well-written and a great first thriller effort by this author.
Five people from all corners of the globe are brought together in Northern England to play The Game; Maggie, Brett, Noah, Sarah, and Linda. There is also an enigmatic sixth player who appears to be behind the scenes at first.
But why have they all been summoned on one place to play this high-stakes game which could result in the death of somebody they love?
Everybody has their vice. Everybody has their flaws.
DEAR PLAYER, THE PERSON YOU LOVE MOST IS IN DANGER. TO SAVE THEM, YOU MUST PLAY THE GAME. THE RULES ARE: THERE CAN ONLY BE ONE WINNER. IF YOU LOSE, YOUR LOVED ONE WILL DIE. ALL PLAYERS ENTER ALONE. DO NOT SHARE THIS MESSAGE. DO NOT SEEK HELP. WELCOME TO THE GAME. YOU’VE JUST STARTED PLAYING.
3.5 Stars (rounded up to 4!)
May 11, 2022
Unfortunately my copy of this book must have been coated with super glue… because I just could not put it down! Gripped from the opening chapter, Kewshaw’s debut novel was a pacey thriller with an explosive ending.
Never mind that there are several characters, they are all contrasting enough that it is not difficult to identify the different ‘players’ of this game. I liked how the chapters are labelled according to the player number, even more so that the chapters move methodically through each participant, like you are watching them taking turns in a game. However, as the story develops, there are also some ‘pre-game’ episodes and I enjoyed how these added further depth to such an unusual plot.
Fear, adrenalin and desperation run throughout this story as the characters are powered by distressed energy to escape the game and protect their loved ones. Frequently, I found my heart was in my mouth because of the cliff-hangers that Kershaw often puts into the narrative, adding to the suspense of this read. Juxtaposing this, the feelings that the three mothers in particular experience, really captured the maternal emotions and I felt connected to them far more than Noah or Brett. I think this is because the writer really plays on the relationship a mother has with her child and the vulnerability that these women display merely intensified the helplessness they feel throughout the story.
As much as I tried, I could not fathom how this story would end. It was surprising until the very end and I was almost sad that the book finished. Addictive like a game itself, the atmosphere was tense and there were a few sickening, toe-curling moments in the story as well. I liked how the main characters are all so disparate, even down to where they come from, making it even harder to determine why the game has chosen these players and what connects them.
For a debut novel, this was suspenseful and breath-taking. It’s an impressive story from Kershaw and I am really excited to see what this author produces next. Highly recommended, this is a book you won’t want to miss and, quite honestly, would you want to lose your turn at the game?
With thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Never mind that there are several characters, they are all contrasting enough that it is not difficult to identify the different ‘players’ of this game. I liked how the chapters are labelled according to the player number, even more so that the chapters move methodically through each participant, like you are watching them taking turns in a game. However, as the story develops, there are also some ‘pre-game’ episodes and I enjoyed how these added further depth to such an unusual plot.
Fear, adrenalin and desperation run throughout this story as the characters are powered by distressed energy to escape the game and protect their loved ones. Frequently, I found my heart was in my mouth because of the cliff-hangers that Kershaw often puts into the narrative, adding to the suspense of this read. Juxtaposing this, the feelings that the three mothers in particular experience, really captured the maternal emotions and I felt connected to them far more than Noah or Brett. I think this is because the writer really plays on the relationship a mother has with her child and the vulnerability that these women display merely intensified the helplessness they feel throughout the story.
As much as I tried, I could not fathom how this story would end. It was surprising until the very end and I was almost sad that the book finished. Addictive like a game itself, the atmosphere was tense and there were a few sickening, toe-curling moments in the story as well. I liked how the main characters are all so disparate, even down to where they come from, making it even harder to determine why the game has chosen these players and what connects them.
For a debut novel, this was suspenseful and breath-taking. It’s an impressive story from Kershaw and I am really excited to see what this author produces next. Highly recommended, this is a book you won’t want to miss and, quite honestly, would you want to lose your turn at the game?
With thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 16, 2022
QUICK TAKE (**SPOILERS**): not sure why the male author thought this was a story that needed to be told, or that he was the person that should be telling it, but here we are. If you were looking for THE book that will hopefully deter thriller/suspense authors (in particular male authors) from using sexual assault against women as a story driver and catalyst for lazy plot twists, look no further.
February 24, 2022
I can’t believe this was the author’s debut book, it was that good. When I first read the premise, I thought the story was going to be kind of like the ‘Saw’ franchise.....”would you like to play a game!”, but it wasn’t anything like that. This was well written and a very intelligent read. Scott Kershaw immediately pulls you into the story, and all throughout, its a race against time for the ‘players’ to try to save their loved ones, culminating in an ending which I wasn’t expecting!! This is a very clever thriller, and I’m looking forward to reading more from Scott in the future. Thanks to Netgalley for sending me this ARC.
April 22, 2022
*www.onewomansbbr.wordpress.com
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
The Game by Scott Kershaw. (2022).
**Thank you to HarperCollins Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 2 March 2022**
Across the globe, five strangers receive a horrifying message from an unknown number: 'the person you love most is in danger; if you lose, your loved one will die; welcome to The Game. You've just started playing'. To save their loved ones they each must play The Game, a sinister unknown entity that apparently has only one winner and nobody knows what The Game is. None of them know why they have been chosen. There's only one thing they know for sure: they'll do anything to win...
This is a really entertaining modern thriller, and I think a great debut for the author. The storyline is a suspense-filled ride from beginning to end. Five people - Linda, Noah, Sarah, Maggie and Brett - from across the world all receive a text delivering the message that their loved one is in danger and will only be safe if they win The Game...they have no idea why they have been picked, or what The Game is. I thought the storyline was really clever, with quite a few twists meaning the resolution is not predictable; something I always appreciate in a well-written thriller!
Overall: I highly recommend this novel for anyone looking for a fast-paced and full of tension thriller.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
The Game by Scott Kershaw. (2022).
**Thank you to HarperCollins Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 2 March 2022**
Across the globe, five strangers receive a horrifying message from an unknown number: 'the person you love most is in danger; if you lose, your loved one will die; welcome to The Game. You've just started playing'. To save their loved ones they each must play The Game, a sinister unknown entity that apparently has only one winner and nobody knows what The Game is. None of them know why they have been chosen. There's only one thing they know for sure: they'll do anything to win...
This is a really entertaining modern thriller, and I think a great debut for the author. The storyline is a suspense-filled ride from beginning to end. Five people - Linda, Noah, Sarah, Maggie and Brett - from across the world all receive a text delivering the message that their loved one is in danger and will only be safe if they win The Game...they have no idea why they have been picked, or what The Game is. I thought the storyline was really clever, with quite a few twists meaning the resolution is not predictable; something I always appreciate in a well-written thriller!
Overall: I highly recommend this novel for anyone looking for a fast-paced and full of tension thriller.
January 30, 2025
4.5⭐️
This book was really good and I don’t even know how I stumbled across it. I read the synopsis and it very much gives the movie Saw vibes. This is not your gore-y run of the mill horror novel. I was actually shocked that some other reviews say they didn’t care for the second half of the book. This is a psychological thriller at its core, but it was also really heartbreaking. I was so into every moment of the book that I didn’t see the ending coming. It made me happy, scared, angry - all of the above! I love a book that I binge through, feel very satisfied with the conclusion, and feel like I haven’t read anything like it before. This book is all of that! Very underrated as I stumbled across it, but highly recommend.
This book was really good and I don’t even know how I stumbled across it. I read the synopsis and it very much gives the movie Saw vibes. This is not your gore-y run of the mill horror novel. I was actually shocked that some other reviews say they didn’t care for the second half of the book. This is a psychological thriller at its core, but it was also really heartbreaking. I was so into every moment of the book that I didn’t see the ending coming. It made me happy, scared, angry - all of the above! I love a book that I binge through, feel very satisfied with the conclusion, and feel like I haven’t read anything like it before. This book is all of that! Very underrated as I stumbled across it, but highly recommend.
February 10, 2025
This story has a good lesson, parents being responsible for their kids, if not, bad things will happen. One parent was a workaholic and often neglected her kid. One mom loved online bingo games and often locked herself in the bathroom to play while her kids napped. One mom went through teenage rebellion and ended with a kid at a young age. She knew the man who raped her was bad and she could have reported him to save the lives of the girls after her but she didn't. One man who knew this guy was bad news but didn't report him..
A game was created. To punish parents and those that knew the bad guy. They were chosen. They had to do what the message on their phone said to save their loved ones. Before the game, there were the other characters. They thought they were there for influencer opportunities. Because they were gamers. Playing games online with a subscription where others pay to watch them play. But it ended badly.
I was unclear of where the story was heading until the end.
The audiobook was good. The narrator sings.
Thank you HarperCollins 360 for the opportunity to read and review.
A game was created. To punish parents and those that knew the bad guy. They were chosen. They had to do what the message on their phone said to save their loved ones. Before the game, there were the other characters. They thought they were there for influencer opportunities. Because they were gamers. Playing games online with a subscription where others pay to watch them play. But it ended badly.
I was unclear of where the story was heading until the end.
The audiobook was good. The narrator sings.
Thank you HarperCollins 360 for the opportunity to read and review.
May 12, 2022
My thanks, to Harper 360, Scott Kershaw and Netgalley.
I had a blast reading this book! I liked slowly getting to know these "contestants."
Unfortunately, the finale ended up being a fart in a wet bag. It stunk! I just really didn't want to believe it. Not because I was appalled, but because it was "creative writing, 101."
Outlandish? No. Just really lame.
I had a blast reading this book! I liked slowly getting to know these "contestants."
Unfortunately, the finale ended up being a fart in a wet bag. It stunk! I just really didn't want to believe it. Not because I was appalled, but because it was "creative writing, 101."
Outlandish? No. Just really lame.
May 26, 2022
- Dear Player. The person you love most is in danger. To save them, you must play THE GAME. The rules are - there can only be one winner. If you lose, your loved one will die. All players enter alone. Do not share this message. Do not seek help - welcome to THE GAME -
Scott Kershaw is the debut author of this incredibly original thriller and if I hadn’t of read for myself this was his first novel, I truly wouldn’t have believed it. Superbly plotted, intriguing storyline, interesting characters and a nail-biting denouement that thoroughly shocked and I didn’t foresee, made this one of the most entertaining thrillers I’ve read in a long time.
There are various different threads and themes throughout, some quite sensitive but they are paramount to the development of the story. To state what they are would spoil it but when the pieces of the puzzle start to connect, you fully understand why the author incorporated such emotional scenes.
Mind boggling twists make this a masterful, suspense classic and although logistically and theoretically implausible, this story sends you on an unforgettable ride of entertainment.
With the possibility of an opening for a second book, I do hope the author writes another, I for one would queue up to be the first to buy it and I can happily recommend “The Game” to thriller readers.
#TheGame - 5 stars
Thank you to Alliya Bouyis and HQ Stories for inviting me on this blog tour and for my copy of the book in return for an honest opinion.
Scott Kershaw is the debut author of this incredibly original thriller and if I hadn’t of read for myself this was his first novel, I truly wouldn’t have believed it. Superbly plotted, intriguing storyline, interesting characters and a nail-biting denouement that thoroughly shocked and I didn’t foresee, made this one of the most entertaining thrillers I’ve read in a long time.
There are various different threads and themes throughout, some quite sensitive but they are paramount to the development of the story. To state what they are would spoil it but when the pieces of the puzzle start to connect, you fully understand why the author incorporated such emotional scenes.
Mind boggling twists make this a masterful, suspense classic and although logistically and theoretically implausible, this story sends you on an unforgettable ride of entertainment.
With the possibility of an opening for a second book, I do hope the author writes another, I for one would queue up to be the first to buy it and I can happily recommend “The Game” to thriller readers.
#TheGame - 5 stars
Thank you to Alliya Bouyis and HQ Stories for inviting me on this blog tour and for my copy of the book in return for an honest opinion.
May 15, 2022
Wishlist | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Ko-fi
A very big thank you to the team at HQ Stories, for sending me a copy of The Game by Scott Kershaw. Make sure you follow the other mentioned bloggers above for their reviews of this book. The Game is definitely one of those books that instantly grabs your attention.
Synopsis:
As soon as I read the synopsis, I wanted to know what this game is all about. We are introduced to five people, and someone they love goes missing and they receive a message to start playing the game. There can only be one winner and they cannot share this message or seek help from anyone. If they lose this game, their loved one will die.
My Thoughts:
The first half of the book feels like a prolonged introduction. There is a slight issue with pacing, due to us reading five chapters for five different characters, all having to do the same few tasks. For example – they need to buy a prepaid phone and come to a certain location.
Whilst this is great in terms of character building, and us understanding each character’s back story, at times it felt like a recycled content. Once the game officially starts, my reading experience improved significantly. There is a lot of tension and uneasy atmosphere that I quite enjoyed. We discover a lot of secrets about the players and see how each of them deals with the situation they are into.
Writing this review now, it’s extremely hard to not reveal anything. The big reveal was very unexpected, that’s all I will say! It took me by surprise still, even though I had my suspicions and picked up on a few clues along the way. The ending was dark and twisty and it was interesting to see the aftermath of everything. A lot of questions were raised regarding morality and taking responsibility of small decisions that may have a huge impact in the long run. There are definitely a lot of topics for discussion, and I can see this book being a great pick for a book club. It kept me glued from start to finish. The game aspect of the book satisfied me and the gripping ending was a masterpiece. Don’t miss this one out, despite its difficult beginning.
The Game is Scott Kershaw’s debut novel, although his writing doesn’t feel like a debut author’s writing. I will definitely keep Scott on my radar and look out for his next books.
A very big thank you to the team at HQ Stories, for sending me a copy of The Game by Scott Kershaw. Make sure you follow the other mentioned bloggers above for their reviews of this book. The Game is definitely one of those books that instantly grabs your attention.
Synopsis:
As soon as I read the synopsis, I wanted to know what this game is all about. We are introduced to five people, and someone they love goes missing and they receive a message to start playing the game. There can only be one winner and they cannot share this message or seek help from anyone. If they lose this game, their loved one will die.
My Thoughts:
The first half of the book feels like a prolonged introduction. There is a slight issue with pacing, due to us reading five chapters for five different characters, all having to do the same few tasks. For example – they need to buy a prepaid phone and come to a certain location.
Whilst this is great in terms of character building, and us understanding each character’s back story, at times it felt like a recycled content. Once the game officially starts, my reading experience improved significantly. There is a lot of tension and uneasy atmosphere that I quite enjoyed. We discover a lot of secrets about the players and see how each of them deals with the situation they are into.
Writing this review now, it’s extremely hard to not reveal anything. The big reveal was very unexpected, that’s all I will say! It took me by surprise still, even though I had my suspicions and picked up on a few clues along the way. The ending was dark and twisty and it was interesting to see the aftermath of everything. A lot of questions were raised regarding morality and taking responsibility of small decisions that may have a huge impact in the long run. There are definitely a lot of topics for discussion, and I can see this book being a great pick for a book club. It kept me glued from start to finish. The game aspect of the book satisfied me and the gripping ending was a masterpiece. Don’t miss this one out, despite its difficult beginning.
The Game is Scott Kershaw’s debut novel, although his writing doesn’t feel like a debut author’s writing. I will definitely keep Scott on my radar and look out for his next books.
May 4, 2022
Think SAW ish and every film where a group of strangers are thrown together to save the lives of the one they love and you are there
The Game starts abruptly for all players and before they have time to really understand they are in a battle for literally everything they hold dear
Told in a John Marr’s style ie 5 characters who all have a chapter each ( reoccurring at first ) that ends on a cliffhanger it gives you time to get to know them all
I had for some reason looked up reviews before starting this ( rarely do ) and very mixed they are too and so wasn’t sure what to expect but for me it was a stunning debut, yes there are flaws, some trigger points for readers ( I skimmed over the ones wanted to ) and the plot at times especially towards the ending maybe did raise an eye but it was entertaining, well written and if you like this kind of thriller you will love it, I couldn’t help but think Netflix the whole way through it, a more ideal 8 parter could not be written….
Give it a try, I cant guarantee you will love it but for me it was an exciting and fast paced read
Without doubt an author with a great career ahead
9/10
5 Stars
The Game starts abruptly for all players and before they have time to really understand they are in a battle for literally everything they hold dear
Told in a John Marr’s style ie 5 characters who all have a chapter each ( reoccurring at first ) that ends on a cliffhanger it gives you time to get to know them all
I had for some reason looked up reviews before starting this ( rarely do ) and very mixed they are too and so wasn’t sure what to expect but for me it was a stunning debut, yes there are flaws, some trigger points for readers ( I skimmed over the ones wanted to ) and the plot at times especially towards the ending maybe did raise an eye but it was entertaining, well written and if you like this kind of thriller you will love it, I couldn’t help but think Netflix the whole way through it, a more ideal 8 parter could not be written….
Give it a try, I cant guarantee you will love it but for me it was an exciting and fast paced read
Without doubt an author with a great career ahead
9/10
5 Stars
April 5, 2022
Five strangers have received a text saying that they have been entered into a game. Failure to play and adhere to the rules will result in the death of someone they love.
The story is told by each player looking at their predicament and a little of their history.
A frightening tale that left me with a lot of unanswered questions.
Thank you to NetGalley and HQ for me e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
The story is told by each player looking at their predicament and a little of their history.
A frightening tale that left me with a lot of unanswered questions.
Thank you to NetGalley and HQ for me e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 26, 2022
3.5 rounded up to 4
November 2, 2022
I received this book from NetGalley and the publisher in return for an honest review. This review is based entirely on my own thoughts and feelings.
Overall rating : 3*
Writing skill : 4*
Plot: 2*
Pace: 3*
Characters: 3*
If I was reviewing the last 25% I'd be rating this 5*, what a great ending! But unfortunately the first half had me fairly bored. I thought 6 different story lines far too much, and as soon you were getting to grips with one part of the story it ended, and you were following another plot with different characters. However when the story lines came together and you were only following one or two stories it was far more enjoyable, and the climax was really, really good. Overall a good story with massive 'Saw' and 'Squid Game' vibes. Solid 3 stars.
Overall rating : 3*
Writing skill : 4*
Plot: 2*
Pace: 3*
Characters: 3*
If I was reviewing the last 25% I'd be rating this 5*, what a great ending! But unfortunately the first half had me fairly bored. I thought 6 different story lines far too much, and as soon you were getting to grips with one part of the story it ended, and you were following another plot with different characters. However when the story lines came together and you were only following one or two stories it was far more enjoyable, and the climax was really, really good. Overall a good story with massive 'Saw' and 'Squid Game' vibes. Solid 3 stars.
April 21, 2023
Oh boy. What happened there… I have to say that until 80% in I found The Game a compelling slow burn thriller and I couldn’t wait to get to the end to get all the answers! Unfortunately, this is a case of when a “twist” or ending makes or breaks a book and this one completely crumbled down. The action is almost nonexistent. So you’re left with a lot of background story about the characters for 2/3 of the book before the story really starts, which as it got me into the story from the very first chapter, I didn’t mind too much but I kept waiting for something to happen and it didn’t until the last 40 pages where it all spiralled down into nonsense. The ending was very convoluted and made no sense. I don’t even think this book should be called The Game. It seems like the title is all a marketing ploy and was added into the story as an afterthought rather than a comprehensive part of the story… Why is it the game? Unclear. What about the characters’ motivation? Flimsy at best but mostly nonsensical. Which brings me to the odd feeling that it gave me when reading from a POV of so many women, clearly written by a man. The thoughts and feelings felt very much like those of someone who never had to experience a period or childbirth. I’m sorry to say but at times it felt borderline misogynistic and the whole theme of the book revealed at the end left a sour taste in my mouth. I’m not sure that it is the place for a man to discuss women’s experience of sexual abuse and rape in so much detail and with such gruesomeness, just to fit a plot and a twist. There were a few too many violent and truly visceral moments that made me sick and deeply disturbed.
If there is one thing that I was really impressed by, it is the ability of the author to write characters that have a very distinct voice. Considering that we get 5 main POVs plus additional chapters from minor characters, I was fully expecting to start mixing them up and being unsure of which storyline belonged to which person. However, their very distinct narration made it really easy to follow and switch between perspectives, and I have to say that this is a very hard thing to do so I’m really impressed.
Another thing that really made me surprised was the ease with which it was written and how easy it was to get into and not wanting to put it down.
Overall, I don’t think that this is bad and I did enjoy it until the 80% mark but the ending really ruined it for me. It felt rushed as if the author realised there was a deadline and scribbled some ending just to finish the book which made no sense after following the whole story. Pieces were not matching, and the puzzle seemed to have mixed a few different boxes making it impossible to put it all together in one comprehensive picture…
If there is one thing that I was really impressed by, it is the ability of the author to write characters that have a very distinct voice. Considering that we get 5 main POVs plus additional chapters from minor characters, I was fully expecting to start mixing them up and being unsure of which storyline belonged to which person. However, their very distinct narration made it really easy to follow and switch between perspectives, and I have to say that this is a very hard thing to do so I’m really impressed.
Another thing that really made me surprised was the ease with which it was written and how easy it was to get into and not wanting to put it down.
Overall, I don’t think that this is bad and I did enjoy it until the 80% mark but the ending really ruined it for me. It felt rushed as if the author realised there was a deadline and scribbled some ending just to finish the book which made no sense after following the whole story. Pieces were not matching, and the puzzle seemed to have mixed a few different boxes making it impossible to put it all together in one comprehensive picture…
June 16, 2022
It's kinda twisty, it's kinda fun - why not!
Picked up this book as it sounded cool and a tad different from my usual books and boy it was - and it did not disappoint!
The plot and characters were interesting, the pacing fast and the storytelling unique.
I did feel somewhere after 60% in the pace dropped off the high speed and I had to skim a bit to keep myself interested and not abandon this book for a better one..
Overall, I was enjoying myself, except for the 'resolution' bit with Sarah's partner.. it just did not sit right with me at all and the ending(s) were tied up in an unsatisfactory manner. Maybe I missed some bits but - I didn't think the ending did the rest of the book justice to be fair.
Thank you for the ARC, NetGalley!
Picked up this book as it sounded cool and a tad different from my usual books and boy it was - and it did not disappoint!
The plot and characters were interesting, the pacing fast and the storytelling unique.
I did feel somewhere after 60% in the pace dropped off the high speed and I had to skim a bit to keep myself interested and not abandon this book for a better one..
Overall, I was enjoying myself, except for the 'resolution' bit with Sarah's partner.. it just did not sit right with me at all and the ending(s) were tied up in an unsatisfactory manner. Maybe I missed some bits but - I didn't think the ending did the rest of the book justice to be fair.
Thank you for the ARC, NetGalley!
April 12, 2023
Potpuno solidan triler,koji je možda mogao da dobije i ocjenu više ali mislim da je ovo potpuno ok. 😁
Svakako preporuka za razbribrigu.
Svakako preporuka za razbribrigu.
February 20, 2022
** IF YOU READ ANY BOOK THIS YEAR - MAKE SURE IT'S THIS ONE! **
"THERE CAN ONLY BE ONE WINNER.
AND IF YOU LOSE, YOUR LOVED ONE WILL DIE.
WELVOME TO THE GAME.
YOU'VE JUST STARTED PLAYING."
I've got to admit it, I was absolutely blown away by this one. I dont know if the fact that TV series like Squid Games are around at the moment but it definitely made it feel more prevalent.
It was completely believable and totally different to all other thrillers I have read. Unique is the only word for it.
This is a dual timeline of The Game and The Pre Game which are split throughout the book but in a clear distinct way that is easy to follow.
Five complete strangers from around the globe are thrown together to 'play' a game, all racing to save the one they love but there is only one winner! The rules aren't clear, they don't even know what the game entails or why they have been chosen but to save their loved ones, do they have a choice?
Not only are they racing against the clock, challenges are horrendous and dark with no end in sight.
We don't get to know the players intricately but what we do find out is more than enough and makes you relate to what they are fighting for and makes you care for the ones they might lose.
The way that the author so expertly weaves the two parts together was masterful. The twists and turns actually shocked me and the ending was nothing other but perfectly constructed.
It's fast paced, menacing, dark and full of intrigue and mystery - everything you need, want and more.
This is one of those books that makes you want to go to bed early just so you can pick it up again! I can easily see this as a TV series or movie, it would make one hell of a blockbuster!
I can't believe this is the writers debut novel, I cannot recommend it highly enough and now wait in anticipation to see what he throws at us next.
The biggest thanks to netgalley and HQ for the ARC.
"THERE CAN ONLY BE ONE WINNER.
AND IF YOU LOSE, YOUR LOVED ONE WILL DIE.
WELVOME TO THE GAME.
YOU'VE JUST STARTED PLAYING."
I've got to admit it, I was absolutely blown away by this one. I dont know if the fact that TV series like Squid Games are around at the moment but it definitely made it feel more prevalent.
It was completely believable and totally different to all other thrillers I have read. Unique is the only word for it.
This is a dual timeline of The Game and The Pre Game which are split throughout the book but in a clear distinct way that is easy to follow.
Five complete strangers from around the globe are thrown together to 'play' a game, all racing to save the one they love but there is only one winner! The rules aren't clear, they don't even know what the game entails or why they have been chosen but to save their loved ones, do they have a choice?
Not only are they racing against the clock, challenges are horrendous and dark with no end in sight.
We don't get to know the players intricately but what we do find out is more than enough and makes you relate to what they are fighting for and makes you care for the ones they might lose.
The way that the author so expertly weaves the two parts together was masterful. The twists and turns actually shocked me and the ending was nothing other but perfectly constructed.
It's fast paced, menacing, dark and full of intrigue and mystery - everything you need, want and more.
This is one of those books that makes you want to go to bed early just so you can pick it up again! I can easily see this as a TV series or movie, it would make one hell of a blockbuster!
I can't believe this is the writers debut novel, I cannot recommend it highly enough and now wait in anticipation to see what he throws at us next.
The biggest thanks to netgalley and HQ for the ARC.
June 11, 2022
Depressing and ugly plot
February 9, 2023
This is a book for good thriller movie. Till the last pages you really do not know what is all about. The good one!
August 10, 2022
I had such high hopes for this book! The concept was amazing but it really just fell flat for me
May 13, 2022
This book should have been so good. I loved The Players by Darren O’Sullivan which was released last year and I thought this would be a more international version of that. It was international, well to a certain extent, but that is where the comparison ends. Where The Players was a breath snatcher of a thriller this was a jumbled mess.
Short chapters flitting between the characters meant I never really took to one before it had jumped to the next. Not that I would have taken to them anyway as they are all pretty horrible. There’s a vein of every phobe running through this lot. Homophobe, fatphobe and the way that women are portrayed was just yuck.
As if keeping track of the five players wasn’t hard enough the author also throws in all their acquaintances too just to make keeping track of who was who even more difficult.
So we have players Brett, Noah, Sarah, Linda and Maggie. Why have they been chosen? They seemingly have nothing in common except they are all out to save their loved ones and there can only be one winner. Now this aspect I liked as it certainly raised the stakes and I was hoping it would also dwindle down the perspectives and make it easier to read. The chapters are short so the pace is fast but I personally felt this actually did the book a disservice as a character driven book needs to give the reader time to bond with them. It needs to find a middle ground.
The game itself took forever to get going with them taking way too many pages to even get to the location. Once it started and it was revealed why they were there, which to be fair was blatantly obvious in how they were written, I was by then hoping that most of them would meet a nasty death.
I know this is a debut and I have been pretty disparaging but this is only my opinion and to be fair it has good bones it just needs fleshing out and the skin ironing of it’s wrinkles. Some scenes were brutal and well written but after I had finished it I was left with plot holes, a few loose ends and the feeling that by the end even the author had given up playing.
Short chapters flitting between the characters meant I never really took to one before it had jumped to the next. Not that I would have taken to them anyway as they are all pretty horrible. There’s a vein of every phobe running through this lot. Homophobe, fatphobe and the way that women are portrayed was just yuck.
As if keeping track of the five players wasn’t hard enough the author also throws in all their acquaintances too just to make keeping track of who was who even more difficult.
So we have players Brett, Noah, Sarah, Linda and Maggie. Why have they been chosen? They seemingly have nothing in common except they are all out to save their loved ones and there can only be one winner. Now this aspect I liked as it certainly raised the stakes and I was hoping it would also dwindle down the perspectives and make it easier to read. The chapters are short so the pace is fast but I personally felt this actually did the book a disservice as a character driven book needs to give the reader time to bond with them. It needs to find a middle ground.
The game itself took forever to get going with them taking way too many pages to even get to the location. Once it started and it was revealed why they were there, which to be fair was blatantly obvious in how they were written, I was by then hoping that most of them would meet a nasty death.
I know this is a debut and I have been pretty disparaging but this is only my opinion and to be fair it has good bones it just needs fleshing out and the skin ironing of it’s wrinkles. Some scenes were brutal and well written but after I had finished it I was left with plot holes, a few loose ends and the feeling that by the end even the author had given up playing.
January 18, 2022
Five strangers find themselves in a dangerous pursuit to save their kidnapped loved ones. Welcome to the game, do not involve the police, obey the rules and try to win. Suspicion is on the rise, challenges dark and horrendous. The world can be cruel, and its cruelty is usually pointless. Who is behind this mortal game and why were they chosen to play?
I've read the book in one evening and been pleasantly surprised that the plot is believable, concise and different in comparison with the other "cookie-cutter" thrillers these days. It is unique, cinematic and fast-paced. The characters are very well developed, issues current, and I am looking forward to another book from Scott Kershaw.
Unputdownable and thrilling page-turner.
Highly recommended.
I've read the book in one evening and been pleasantly surprised that the plot is believable, concise and different in comparison with the other "cookie-cutter" thrillers these days. It is unique, cinematic and fast-paced. The characters are very well developed, issues current, and I am looking forward to another book from Scott Kershaw.
Unputdownable and thrilling page-turner.
Highly recommended.
June 1, 2022
I wish I could give this book more than five stars it was so brilliant. Once I started it I just couldn’t put it down. Exciting and very interesting I really didn’t know how this one was going to turn out and I was so surprised by the ending, I didn’t see that one coming. A brilliant read and I highly recommended this one. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 630 reviews