As a survival story, this novel was well researched and written. I felt as though I was right there fighting along with this ragtag group of people (and dog). While it was a little unbelievable how much Natalia (a teenager) knew just from red cross training, and Wyatt (also a teen) seemingly having years worth of experience and expertise in wilderness training and medical knowledge, it was fascinating learning how they went about healing others and finding their path out. Natalia's past tragedy made her an unlikely expert. Her therapy created a way for her to help others within the group suffering from anxiety. However, her past with fire is at times a hindrance to her (when she freezes up) and sometimes a help (when she is able to use her knowledge of burns to determine the seriousness of the wound of another hiker). I liked this juxtaposition within her character, it made her more relatable and believable. Natalia and Wyatt work well together, helping each other to find their best solutions to each problem they face. They also help each other when they are feeling overwhelmed. Although, it seemed everything that could go wrong did in this scenario, which again was a little bit unbelievable. Just when you thought there might be a break something else derails the team or threatens them. And the foreshadowing is very purposeful, maybe too much so. The book was a very quick read, which keeps you on the edge of anticipation the whole time. The ending was a bit abrupt, but each plot point was well thought out and handled effectively. I was often surprised by the quick thinking, and how so many everyday items can be used in life saving situations. I also liked that each character had their own quirks and was able to help out in some way with their own knowledge or the items they brought along on the hike. As the book progresses you begin to see what Natalia experienced in the past and it was truly heartbreaking. I could understand her apprehension about surviving the fire and not breaking down completely, about the toddler that was stuck with them, and of having so many people rely on her red cross training and her in general. She has a hard time with herself, with all of the guilt, fear, and shame eating away at her self confidence and worth. It was interesting to see a survival story in which the main character comes out more healed from past trauma than experiencing new trauma. I liked that added benefit of this horrible situation for Natalia. If you are looking for a quick read with a likeable main character and interesting ways in which survival is achieved, then look no further.
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