Things unravel quickly in How Bad Things Can Get, the latest thriller from Darcy Coates. While this novel has its solid moments, it ultimately fell short of my expectations–but worth the read.
It was supposed to be the party of the century: miles of idyllic white sand beaches, lush jungle foliage…and a dark legend nobody dreamed might be all too true.
When an online influencer and several hundred of his most loyal fans land on Prosperity Island, the plan is simple: five days of elaborate games, drinking, and suntanned fun.
A week in paradise should have been a welcome respite. The only survivor of an infamous cult, Ruth wants nothing more than to keep her head down and not draw attention. She’s spent decades outrunning her blood-soaked childhood, and her identity is a closely held secret.
But then the true history of the island is revealed…along with its sinister connection to Ruth’s past. As guests go missing and games turn deadly, Ruth and the rest of the attendees are forced to question whether they’ve really been invited to paradise…or whether something much darker―and far bloodier―is waiting for them just beyond the bonfire’s light.
Over the past few years, Coates has become almost a must-read author for me. Naturally, I couldn’t resist cracking open How Bad Things Can Get, this one didn’t quite resonate with me the way some of her previous novels have. I found it difficult to connect with the story, as if I was simply pushing forward to reach the end.
The cult aspect was one of the book’s more intriguing parts, and Ruth’s struggle to escape her past added something special to the story. However, the rest of book felt a bit overcrowded. The story felt like it was pulling from too many threads at once, detracting from my reading experience. This excess made the deaths feel understated and overshadowed. By the time I reached the big reveal, I felt much of the mystery had been spoiled by Ruth, which was never really explained.
This all being said, the book does have strengths. The fast-paced storytelling and high level of gory moments creates a truly gripping read that is easy to breeze through. The characters seem to be generally likable, but they lacked the depth and backstory (ironically enough as there is a great deal of flashbacks) to make them truly memorable. The setting is fun and atmospheric, although I prefer Coates’ haunted house stories, which carry more of the eerie charm I have come to love in her work.
Darcy Coates has delivered a solid novel, albeit with a few minor missteps. While How Bad Things Can Get wasn’t quite for me, its quick pacing and distinct premise still made for an enjoyable read. I’ll continue to look forward to future releases from Coates, this one just wasn’t for me.
How Bad Things Can Get hits bookstores everywhere on August 26, 2025 from Poisoned Pen Press.
