Book Review: Do Not Open by Kiersten Modglin
When I first stumbled upon Do Not Open, I was immediately intrigued. The premise—an email from a "number one fan" that spirals downward into a chilling nightmare—felt like a tantalizing blend of psychological thriller and cautionary tale. As a long-time admirer of Kiersten Modglin’s twisted storytelling, I couldn’t resist diving in. Little did I know, this book would wrap its claws around me and keep me up long past bedtime.
From the very first page, I was drawn into the tumultuous world of Mari Morgan, a struggling author grappling with the weight of loss and writer’s block. Modglin masterfully captures the essence of despair and vulnerability, portraying Mari’s journey with both compassion and tension. The moment Mari replies to the mysterious email, a decision filled with panic and curiosity, I felt a chill—this is the beginning of her entrapment, where the lines between reality and fiction blur horrifically.
As I turned the pages, I was struck by how well Modglin explores the themes of obsession and the consequences of fame. The villain—a chillingly relatable figure—draws inspiration from Mari’s own creations, showcasing how the art we create can sometimes turn against us. The concept of a “fan” morphing into a nightmare felt all too relevant, reminding us of the duality of admiration on social media today. This resonated deeply with me, as I reflected on my own experiences and the sometimes-unspoken dangers of public life.
The pacing of this thriller is a rollercoaster ride. Each twist and reveal comes at you like a sharp jolt, making it impossible to set the book down. Modglin’s writing style—sharp, crisp, and unrelenting—kept my heart racing, echoing the urgency of Mari’s desperate situation. I particularly enjoyed how the emotional depth infused into Mari’s character made her struggles palpable; it was as if I was holding my breath right alongside her.
One of my favorite aspects was the myriad of plot twists that caught me off guard, keeping me guessing until the very last chapter. Just when I thought I had things figured out, Modglin would throw in a curveball that left me gasping. “Did that just happen?” was a thought that echoed through my mind repeatedly, a testament to the brilliance of her storytelling.
In reflecting on my overall experience with Do Not Open, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to fans of psychological thrillers. If you enjoyed Misery or YOU, you’ll find yourself captivated by Modglin’s gripping narrative. This book is not just about survival against a sinister foe; it’s about the resilience of the human spirit and the shadows that our own creations can cast. By its conclusion, I was left not only breathless but thoughtful—pondering what it means to face our own demons, both inside and out.
In short, Do Not Open is a chilling reflection on obsession and the fine line between fandom and fanaticism. It’s a read that stays with you long after the final page, igniting both fear and fascination. If you’re looking for a heart-pounding thriller that doubles as a deep dive into the psyche, this is the perfect book to add to your reading list. Just don’t forget to breathe.