If Something Happens to Me by Alex Finlay

*** Review ***

When we talk about thrillers of 2024 released up to now, Alex Finlay’s If Something Happens to Me emerges as a commanding presence, delivering a narrative that grips you from the outset and refuses to let go until the final page. With deft storytelling and an intricate plot, Finlay takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through a web of mystery, revenge, and redemption.

At the heart of the novel lies a haunting event from the past: the disappearance of Ryan Richardson’s girlfriend, Alison. The trauma of that night has lingered with Ryan for five agonizing years, shadowed by suspicion and the relentless scrutiny of the public eye. Finlay adeptly portrays Ryan’s struggle to move forward, weaving his journey with elements of grief, guilt, and a relentless pursuit of truth.

One of the novel’s most compelling aspects is its multi-perspective narrative. Through the eyes of various characters – from Ryan himself to a newly minted deputy sheriff named Poppy McGee – Finlay paints a rich tapestry of interconnected lives and motivations. Each perspective brings a fresh layer of complexity to the story, allowing readers to glimpse different facets of the mystery at hand.

Finlay’s skillful handling of pacing is another highlight of the novel. Short, brisk chapters propel the narrative forward with a sense of urgency, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with every turn of the page. The tension escalates steadily, fueled by a potent mix of bullying, abduction, murder, and revenge. Yet amid the pulse-pounding action, Finlay also provides moments of respite – poignant interludes that allow for introspection and emotional depth.

Central to the novel’s intrigue are the cryptic clues left behind by Alison, sparking a riveting game of cat and mouse that spans continents and years. As the pieces of the puzzle begin to fall into place, readers are treated to a series of adrenaline-fueled twists and revelations that will leave them breathless. Finlay masterfully orchestrates these moments, delivering a series of “aha” revelations that are as satisfying as they are surprising.

What sets If Something Happens to Me apart is its thematic richness. Beneath the surface of its gripping plot lies a meditation on the nature of guilt, redemption, and the enduring power of hope. Through characters like Ryan, whose quest for closure propels him across oceans and through the depths of his own soul, Finlay explores the human capacity for resilience in the face of tragedy.

That being said, the novel is not without its flaws. For some readers, the sheer number of characters and perspectives may prove overwhelming, making it difficult to fully connect with any single protagonist. Additionally, certain plot developments may require a suspension of disbelief, stretching the boundaries of plausibility at times.

Nevertheless, these minor quibbles pale in comparison to the sheer thrill of the reading experience. From its evocative international settings to its heart-stopping twists and turns, If Something Happens to Me is a tour de force of the thriller genre. Alex Finlay has once again proven himself to be a master storyteller, cementing his status as one of the preeminent voices in contemporary suspense fiction.

In conclusion, If Something Happens to Me is a must-read for fans of the genre and newcomers alike. With its gripping narrative, rich characterization, and relentless pace, it is a novel that will keep you guessing until the very end – and leave you eagerly awaiting Alex Finlay’s next masterpiece.