Book Review: Do Not Open by Kiersten Modglin
Have you ever received an email that made your heart race, a sudden urge to leap out of your chair and chase down the opportunity it presents? Well, that’s exactly what happened to me when I stumbled upon Do Not Open by Kiersten Modglin. As a long-time follower of Modglin’s work, I was instantly intrigued by the premise: a struggling author tangled in the web of her own fan’s obsession.
At the heart of the story is Mari Morgan, once a vibrant, successful writer now grappling with deep loss and the crushing weight of writer’s block. When an email from her “number one fan” lands in her inbox, it ignites a flicker of hope in her desolate world. However, the opportunity offered comes with strings attached, leading Mari into a dark, twisted nightmare. What unfolds thereafter is a harrowing journey of survival that had me wondering if Modglin had been peering into my fears.
The themes of obsession and the blurred lines between admiration and madness were rich and compelling. I found myself cringing at both the chilling scenario and the emotional depth of Mari’s character. As she tries to escape the clutches of her captor—who knows her stories as intimately as she does—I couldn’t help but reflect on the nature of fame in the digital age. In a world where our lives can feel so accessible yet deeply isolating, this book strikes a haunting chord.
Modglin’s writing style is both crisp and fluid, allowing the narrative to flow seamlessly even as it spirals into chaos. The pacing is excellent; it kept me glued to the page and, at times, caught my breath in my throat. I particularly appreciated how she layered suspense and drama with psychological insight, allowing us to truly understand Mari’s plight while keeping us on edge. Critical moments, beautifully narrated, tugged at my heartstrings while simultaneously building tension.
One of the most memorable lines from the early chapters resonated with me: “What harm could come from one innocent message?” It encapsulates the essence of the book—curiosity and doubt weaving together to create a tapestry of suspense. The chilling twist at the end left me breathless and, dare I say, impressed with Modglin’s abilities as a storyteller.
This book is perfect for fans of psychological thrillers like Misery or YOU. If you enjoy stories that explore both shadows of human obsession and the resiliency of spirit, Do Not Open is a must-read. This engrossing page-turner left me not just entertained but deeply reflective about trust, vulnerability, and the monsters that often lurk within us.
If you’re looking for a book that serves as a reminder of the power words hold—both for creation and destruction—pick up Do Not Open. You may just find that the experience sticks with you long after you’ve turned the last page. Happy reading!