Review: TEN

Author: Gretchen McNeil
Edition: Balzer+Bray Paperback
Released: 18th September 2012
Series: No, standalone
Pages: 294 approx.
Links: Goodreads | Author's Website | Buy the book!

It was supposed to be the weekend of their lives—an exclusive house party on Henry Island. Best friends Meg and Minnie each have their reasons for being there (which involve T.J., the school’s most eligible bachelor) and look forward to three glorious days of boys, booze and fun-filled luxury.

But what they expect is definitely not what they get. Suddenly people are dying, and with a storm raging, the teens are cut off from the outside world. No electricity, no phones, no internet, and a ferry that isn’t scheduled to return for two days. As the deaths become more violent and the teens turn on each other, can Meg find the killer before more people die? Or is the killer closer to her than she could ever imagine?

TEN by Gretchen McNeil is in no way a perfect read, but if you're looking for something to creep you out whilst you're all snuggled up under your warm covers listening to a storm rage outside, you should read this book. It can certainly send a chill down your spine.

This book is very plot-driven. The mystery outshines the characters. I didn't mind this though, I really didn't feel much of anything toward any of the characters. Meg is a decent enough narrator and I liked her enough to continue reading from her perspective, but there was nothing special about her that made me love her. She proved to be smart - much smarter than I would have been in that type of situation! - and brave. I didn't like Minnie much, though. She was way too self-absorbed and whiny - never focusing on any problems that didn't revolve around her, as well as being cowardly. Of course I would have been terrified if people were being murdered, but I would have, at least, tried to put on a brave face. I attempted to feel sympathetic towards her but, after a while, I couldn't be bothered trying.

I also didn't feel much towards T.J. I didn't share the same attraction to him that Meg did but, at the same time, I wasn't really bothered by him. After it dawned on me he was the best we'd be getting, I managed to retain myself enough to just accept him and his clichéd premise. *ahem* Maybe I should point out the things I did like about the book before this becomes too much of a negative review. In pullet point form? Me think so.

• As I've already said, it is a very plot driven book. The mystery is ever so slightly addicting, you need to know who's behind the murders. It's like the murder detective shows you watch on TV - you can't flick the channel until you know the culprit.
• The storyline of TEN really is like a teen's scary movie. I could play the entire storyline out in my head in movie form. If not already, then I can totally see this becoming a movie. I'd go see it.
• I really couldn't see the twists coming. Hard as I tried - and I tried, a lot - I couldn't put two and two together.

Not the best book in the world, but I do say pick it up if you're in the mood for something different and creepy - something you won't be too picky about. I think everyone should try at least one creepy book in their lifetime! WARNING: Maybe avoid reading it when you're alone. In a country house. That already creaks and moans and has flickering lights.

Just a heads-up, y'know. Past experience and whatnot... ;P

THREE STARS FOR TEN!

Happy Reading,
Rachel xoxo