"It’s showtime!"

Laura Fitzpatrick receives an invitation to a party, challenging her to break free from her shell if only to impress Maddie, her crush. However, a simple game of truth or dare pushes her to go to Plum Creek Carnival, feared by locals. No one would dare go there, believing the place haunted. Unbeknownst to her, the carnival is haunted, and run by a mysterious figure known simply as the Carnival Man. As she navigates the eerie attractions with the help of others, she must summon her courage to confront the unknown and find a way to escape the clutches of the Carnival Man.

A horror novel that treads familiar territory, following in the veins of Stephen King. It evokes memories of the Fear Street movies on Netflix, bringing in young, relatable characters with modern sensibilities. It was refreshing to see a character as shy and insecure as Laura grows into a strong and independent individual in the face of adversity.

The book maintains a brisk pace and never slows down, thanks to its smooth prose. The description used was sparse but enough to convey the character’s feelings and experiences without hindering the plot. This makes the story feel all the more real for those immersed in it.

The inclusion of in-between chapters showing news footage and messages through social media was an interesting choice. At first, there was confusion, but the chapters added a favor that these things were happening while giving perspective to those from the outside on what could have happened to those stuck at the Carnival. The notion that there could not be a possible way to escape was especially intense, making the reader constantly guess as to how they could survive and leave when the Carnival Man has a power beyond them.

The Carnival Man is quite horrifying. He could be lurking in a corner without you knowing, or even knowing he was there, all it takes is to run and hide. A character who takes pleasure in breaking his victims rather than dispatching them quickly. The concept is reminiscent of Pennywise the Clown from the novel IT but with a unique and engaging backstory.

The backstory added layers to the supernatural without going overboard. I would have loved to have seen more touches of the supernatural, but that might slow down the fear factor, something the author successfully avoided.

It was shocking to realize that this book falls under the YA demographic without knowing it, because the book contains some scenes of gore and violence, while also touching on suicidal thoughts and tendencies. Although the scenes mentioned are brief, they can leave a lot to the imagination. It was smart for the author Sarah to give a warning ahead of time since this is a serious subject that may not sit well with many.

The book is fast-paced, and engaging, with very likable characters and a threatening villain who delivers more surprises than expected, especially around the climax of the book when Laura and the others have to make the ultimate choice to succeed. It culminates in a highly satisfactory ending, completing a definitive journey from beginning to end. Things come full circle; no pun intended.

I’m sure you will have quite a ride, no pun intended. Actually yes, the pun was intended.

Enjoy the ride!