I became a Blake Crouch fan back in 2016 with Dark Matter. Ever since, I've eagerly devoured each of his releases, captivated by his knack for blending high-concept thrillers with deeply developed characters. So, when I received a copy of Run from his publisher, I was quick to dive in. Only after some research did I realize this was actually a reissue of one of his earlier novels from 2011, predating most of the breakout hits that first drew me to his work. I was curious to see how this early book would stack up against the Crouch novels I've come to know and love.
The country has spiraled into utter chaos. Each day, violence spreads like wildfire, with people turning on each other in a frenzy, and no one is safe. Jack huddles in his powerless home, surrounded by his family, listening to the ominous voice of the Emergency Broadcast System announcing the names of those targeted for death. His blood runs cold when his own name is read. Now marked for death with a family to protect, Jack has no choice. He doesn’t know why he’s been targeted, but only one option remains—to run for their lives.
I went into Run expecting one of Blake Crouch’s trademark high-concept sci-fi thrillers but was immersed in a tense, post-apocalyptic survival story instead. Unlike his recent books, this one doesn’t rely on significant twists or reveals. Instead, it dives into the raw, unflinching experience of a family on the run as civilization crumbles around them. While it’s undeniably gripping—a fast-paced and often brutal journey—it feels more like an intense thrill ride than a story with lasting depth. Run is a quick, captivating read, but one that probably won’t leave a lasting impact once the final page is turned.
For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
(2024, 81)
I'm interested to know why people are being targeted for death? That's interesting. Is it to keep the population down or have they done something wrong? Sounds like it should be a dramatic read.
ReplyDeleteWithout spoiling things, it is pure anarchy!
DeleteSame as Mary! Premise apart, though, it does sound like a fairly generic thriller. Especially since it's an older book - and in a different genre than his latest - I guess it's difficult for it to meet the readers' expectations.
ReplyDeleteYou can see glimmers of how he would evolve, but this one definitely reads like an early, less mature work. Again, fun for sheer entertainment, but not at the level of his current efforts.
DeleteI didn't know this one was a reissue. I like post-apocalyptic survival stories, so I'd probably like this one. It's on my TBR list...along with several of his other books. I should make reading him one of my bookish goals for next year.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely read Dark Matter and Recursion. They're my favorites from him!
DeleteThey're high on my TBR list!
DeleteWoohoo!
DeleteI do not remember if I meant to read his other one or if I actually did
ReplyDeleteThere's also an adaptation of Dark Matter on Apple TV+ that I'm eager to watch.
DeleteI read Dark Matter a while back and enjoyed it, as well. I haven't read anything more by him, though. Glad to hear you enjoyed the story. I do enjoy end-of-the-world scenarios and always wonder if I'd survive if put in the same position!
ReplyDeleteOoh, if you liked Dark Matter, you'll love Recursion. I think it is his best book yet!
DeleteHis more recent works mark quite the improvement in his craft!
ReplyDeleteWhat an interesting premise! I haven't read any of this author's books yet, but several are on my TBR list. I enjoy post-apocalyptic books, so I'll add this one to my list too.
ReplyDeleteHe's a great author. This is my least favorite of his books, but still a fun, quick read.
DeleteI have this one. Great review Ethan!
ReplyDeleteThanks!
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