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49 Miles Alone
Four days alone in the desert. Except they're not as alone as they think. A year ago, Katie and her cousin Aster survived a night that left their world and easy friendship fractured. Desperate to heal and leave the past behind them, they tackle four days of hiking in the Utah backcountry. But the desert they've loved for years has tricks up its sleeve. An illness, an injury, and a freak storm leave them short on confidence and supplies. When they come across a young couple with extra supplies on the trail, they're grateful and relieved―at first. Riley exudes friendliness, but everything about her boyfriend Finn spells trouble. That night, after some chilling admissions about Finn from Riley, Katie and Aster wake to hear the couple fighting. Helpless and trapped in the darkness, they witness Riley's desperate race into the night, with Finn chasing after. In the morning, they find the couple's camp, but Riley and Finn? Vanished. Katie is sure Riley is in trouble. And with help a two-day hike away, they know they are the only ones who can save her before something terrible happens. The clock is ticking and their supplies are dwindling, but Katie and Aster know they have to find Riley before Finn―or the desert―gets to her first.
273 pages, Paperback
First published July 2, 2024
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September 26, 2024
**4.5-stars rounded up**
In 49 Miles Alone we follow cousins, Katie and Aster, as they embark on a 4-day, 49-mile hike through the Utah desert.
We can tell early on that Katie and Aster are incredibly close, however, something has happened within the past year that has caused a fracture in their relationship.
As hiking is an activity they've been doing together since they were kids, it seems they're intending to use this trip, in one way or another, to repair their relationship.
They're both experienced backpackers, but as everyone knows, the world is a dangerous place, due both to nature itself and other humans.
As the trip starts off, the girls are both fairly quiet. There's a lot of thinking going on, but unfortunately not a lot of communicating. Eventually, though circumstances require them to begin to open up and work together.
There's limited supplies, an illness, a freak storm and an injury, but the most unsettling may be the people they encounter on the trail.
They meet a couple, Riley and Finn, and end up tenting near them for a night. Something about them seems off to Katie and Aster when they share a meal with them.
That night, the cousins hear the couple fighting and witness Riley fleeing their campsite with Finn in hot pursuit. Unable to assist Riley in the dark, Katie and Aster hunker down until morning, at which time the find the couple's campsite abandoned with no sign of either one of them.
How are Katie and Aster going to be able to help this other girl, when it's becoming increasingly difficult for them to even help themselves? Will they make it to mile-49?
I adored my time with this YA Survival Thriller for people who enjoy being out on the trails. The topics explored were great, the character arcs were fantastic, and the intriguing bits so well plotted.
Honestly, this is my favorite Natalie D. Richards to-date!
I read this so quickly. I found the cousins both interesting and I enjoyed learning about their relationship, including all they'd been through together.
In addition to getting both Katie and Asters perspectives, we also get a mystery perspective from an individual who has obviously been severely injured on the trail.
This perspective was peppered in and I loved the mystery of who that was, and how it was going to connect to the story of our cousins.
When they meet the couple, there were many red flags, and that situation def upped the stakes for our girls. It was completely gripping. I had to know the ultimate outcome.
I love hiking and being out in nature in general, exploring new places. This is a proper Survival Thriller and it never got too OTT-for me. I thought it was very well done and well plotted. The drama felt real and I loved the character arcs for both Katie and Aster.
I love how Richards kept it intriguing throughout. There was always something to question and wonder about. I also really enjoyed the emotional journey for both girls. They grew so much by the end and I loved the ending. It's so satisfying.
Thank you to the publisher, SOURCEBOOKS Fire, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I cannot wait to read more from this author!
In 49 Miles Alone we follow cousins, Katie and Aster, as they embark on a 4-day, 49-mile hike through the Utah desert.
We can tell early on that Katie and Aster are incredibly close, however, something has happened within the past year that has caused a fracture in their relationship.
As hiking is an activity they've been doing together since they were kids, it seems they're intending to use this trip, in one way or another, to repair their relationship.
They're both experienced backpackers, but as everyone knows, the world is a dangerous place, due both to nature itself and other humans.
As the trip starts off, the girls are both fairly quiet. There's a lot of thinking going on, but unfortunately not a lot of communicating. Eventually, though circumstances require them to begin to open up and work together.
There's limited supplies, an illness, a freak storm and an injury, but the most unsettling may be the people they encounter on the trail.
They meet a couple, Riley and Finn, and end up tenting near them for a night. Something about them seems off to Katie and Aster when they share a meal with them.
That night, the cousins hear the couple fighting and witness Riley fleeing their campsite with Finn in hot pursuit. Unable to assist Riley in the dark, Katie and Aster hunker down until morning, at which time the find the couple's campsite abandoned with no sign of either one of them.
How are Katie and Aster going to be able to help this other girl, when it's becoming increasingly difficult for them to even help themselves? Will they make it to mile-49?
I adored my time with this YA Survival Thriller for people who enjoy being out on the trails. The topics explored were great, the character arcs were fantastic, and the intriguing bits so well plotted.
Honestly, this is my favorite Natalie D. Richards to-date!
I read this so quickly. I found the cousins both interesting and I enjoyed learning about their relationship, including all they'd been through together.
In addition to getting both Katie and Asters perspectives, we also get a mystery perspective from an individual who has obviously been severely injured on the trail.
This perspective was peppered in and I loved the mystery of who that was, and how it was going to connect to the story of our cousins.
When they meet the couple, there were many red flags, and that situation def upped the stakes for our girls. It was completely gripping. I had to know the ultimate outcome.
I love hiking and being out in nature in general, exploring new places. This is a proper Survival Thriller and it never got too OTT-for me. I thought it was very well done and well plotted. The drama felt real and I loved the character arcs for both Katie and Aster.
I love how Richards kept it intriguing throughout. There was always something to question and wonder about. I also really enjoyed the emotional journey for both girls. They grew so much by the end and I loved the ending. It's so satisfying.
Thank you to the publisher, SOURCEBOOKS Fire, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I cannot wait to read more from this author!
August 1, 2024
Trigger warning for discussion of SA in this book and review.
I have enjoyed Natalie Richard's previous titles, so I'm sad this one didn't work for me.
From the beginning, 49 Miles Alone had a very different atmosphere than Richard's previous works. Cousins Katie and Aster hope to fix their broken relationship over a four-day hike. (You'd become a sworn enemy if you tried that with me.) Katie was r*ped at a party that she and her cousin went to a year ago. The novel's focus is on Katie's trauma and figuring out who she is afterwards.
Marketing is the biggest issue here. Advertising this as a mystery is far-fetched, especially for those who have enjoyed Richard's previous books. The "mystery" aspect isn't prevalent til halfway through, and even then, it's unoriginal and easy to figure out. There was no big "aha" moment or plot twist I didn't see coming.
As for the discussion around Katie's SA, it's nuanced and not brushed over. Many things one wouldn't give are triggering for Katie (sounds of zippers, random men, etc.) Aster has guilt over what happened to Katie and blames herself for not preventing it. Katie's and Aster's emotions and feelings are all over the place, except for their love. Even with the devastation of Katie's assault and the cracks caused in their relationship, their care and protectiveness for each other are still strong.
TW: Please be aware that SA and the trauma it brings are the main focal points of the book. There are flashbacks to the night of the SA and the emotional, physical, and mental trauma it brings.
Thank you, NetGalley and Sourcebooks Fire, for the advance copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
I have enjoyed Natalie Richard's previous titles, so I'm sad this one didn't work for me.
From the beginning, 49 Miles Alone had a very different atmosphere than Richard's previous works. Cousins Katie and Aster hope to fix their broken relationship over a four-day hike. (You'd become a sworn enemy if you tried that with me.) Katie was r*ped at a party that she and her cousin went to a year ago. The novel's focus is on Katie's trauma and figuring out who she is afterwards.
Marketing is the biggest issue here. Advertising this as a mystery is far-fetched, especially for those who have enjoyed Richard's previous books. The "mystery" aspect isn't prevalent til halfway through, and even then, it's unoriginal and easy to figure out. There was no big "aha" moment or plot twist I didn't see coming.
As for the discussion around Katie's SA, it's nuanced and not brushed over. Many things one wouldn't give are triggering for Katie (sounds of zippers, random men, etc.) Aster has guilt over what happened to Katie and blames herself for not preventing it. Katie's and Aster's emotions and feelings are all over the place, except for their love. Even with the devastation of Katie's assault and the cracks caused in their relationship, their care and protectiveness for each other are still strong.
TW: Please be aware that SA and the trauma it brings are the main focal points of the book. There are flashbacks to the night of the SA and the emotional, physical, and mental trauma it brings.
Thank you, NetGalley and Sourcebooks Fire, for the advance copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
June 29, 2024
It took me a bit to get through this read. Unfortunately it didn’t catch my attention until about 70% into the book. It was very slow and uneventful up until then. I had hoped for more action and to be put on the end of my seat like her previous books, but this one didn’t do that.
I do believe this book sends a great message. I also appreciate the detail going in about the hike itself. I don’t think I could ever hike 49 miles.
Overall, I think this is a great book for a younger audience. Thank you Sourcebooks for an ARC!!
I do believe this book sends a great message. I also appreciate the detail going in about the hike itself. I don’t think I could ever hike 49 miles.
Overall, I think this is a great book for a younger audience. Thank you Sourcebooks for an ARC!!
January 21, 2024
Katie and Aster have been close cousins for most of their lives, especially after each of them lost a parent, and backpacking in Utah has been a huge part of their relationship. All that changes drastically after Katie is raped at a college party and Aster feels responsible because she left the drinking scene and was not there to protect her cousin. A hiking trip is supposed to help restore them to “before,” but nothing about this trip will go as planned. Natalie Richards includes great detail about adventuring with a pack on your back that holds everything you need to set up camp, caching supplies, and navigating lesser marked trails through the desert. For some, this may dissuade them from ever trying this rugged type of hiking and others will be thrilled to think of adventuring this way, even when unexpected hail storms beat down on the girls, supplies run out, and illness and injury further complicate the trip. In addition to these very possible complications to backpacking on challenging trails, Richards introduces some scary characters and scenarios and allows the villain to remain unclear until the very end. Readers will swing from Finn being the bad guy, to thinking maybe it is the solitary trail runner, or maybe the older man selling drugs from a ramshackle tent. And who is the young woman trying to tell her story mixed in with the chapters told from Katie or Aster’s perspective? Is it Rylie, the terrified girl who is camping with Finn or someone else entirely? Great descriptions of the stark beauty that is the Moab desert, twisting plot lines, and insight into what can happen in the minds and hearts of victims of trauma are only part of what makes this a great read for grades 8 and up. Text contains profanity (no F-bombs) and the names of Jesus and God are used several times when not actually talking about them. Katie’s rape is never described in detail, only with her remembrances of certain sounds and the actual bruises, but it’s affects on her are clear. Excellent choice for those looking for action adventure.
Thanks for sharing a print arc with me, Sourcebooks Fire.
Thanks for sharing a print arc with me, Sourcebooks Fire.
July 11, 2024
I've only been backpacking a few times. There is nothing as startling as filling out a heartbeat log - naming who and how many and what day you should be back. It's how you know you're going out there alone and, if something happens, only your wits will help you.
So we find Aster and Katie. Their fractured friendship as cousins and hiking buddies has taken a hit after Katie was attacked. Aster hopes this backpacking will bring them together and Katie just hopes it will help heal her soul.
But what a strange trip it is. I don't know anything about hiking except greener, lusher areas. I know sections of the Pacific Crest trail through Oregon and Washington. I know just the beginning of the Appalachian trail. But the Utah dessert, I know nothing about. But I would never try to hike a trail that was closed in Oregon, Washington, or Georgia. So I was shocked when that's the first thing these girls did.
I loved the suspense and complete feeling of being alone. The author did a great job of really painting the beauty of these trails but also the rugged reality of running out of food, water, and one wrong step meaning a catastrophic injury or death. It was nice to feel like I was hiking with them until they got into trouble.
It's a good read, after 60% it was almost impossible to stop. I needed to know how all these people running around these trails at each other were going to end up. I loved the last few chapters - what a great read!
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
So we find Aster and Katie. Their fractured friendship as cousins and hiking buddies has taken a hit after Katie was attacked. Aster hopes this backpacking will bring them together and Katie just hopes it will help heal her soul.
But what a strange trip it is. I don't know anything about hiking except greener, lusher areas. I know sections of the Pacific Crest trail through Oregon and Washington. I know just the beginning of the Appalachian trail. But the Utah dessert, I know nothing about. But I would never try to hike a trail that was closed in Oregon, Washington, or Georgia. So I was shocked when that's the first thing these girls did.
I loved the suspense and complete feeling of being alone. The author did a great job of really painting the beauty of these trails but also the rugged reality of running out of food, water, and one wrong step meaning a catastrophic injury or death. It was nice to feel like I was hiking with them until they got into trouble.
It's a good read, after 60% it was almost impossible to stop. I needed to know how all these people running around these trails at each other were going to end up. I loved the last few chapters - what a great read!
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
September 3, 2024
4 ✨
I actually liked this way more than Five Total Strangers by Natalie Richards. I'm not a huge critic when it comes to writing, but this one was definitely done better.
I love reading books based in my state or near it. Maybe that's why I like this one, oh well. I do wish there were more "hiking" scenes, which that feels weird to say since the entire book was hiking, but the hiking wasn't described enough for me. This author did very well with throwing some curve balls in there.
I will say, if you have experienced...um how do I say this with out being flagged.. 'Grape' then maybe this might scare you a little or the topic would give you a "flight or fight" response. The topic is pretty commonly brought up. The character experienced it and is trying to deal with it. It may help or hurt you, just a warning.
I also did not expect to be moved by this book, a thriller, but the characters overcome these mental obstacles and rejoin their friendship. It was nice. Very good touch indeed.
I actually liked this way more than Five Total Strangers by Natalie Richards. I'm not a huge critic when it comes to writing, but this one was definitely done better.
I love reading books based in my state or near it. Maybe that's why I like this one, oh well. I do wish there were more "hiking" scenes, which that feels weird to say since the entire book was hiking, but the hiking wasn't described enough for me. This author did very well with throwing some curve balls in there.
I will say, if you have experienced...um how do I say this with out being flagged.. 'Grape' then maybe this might scare you a little or the topic would give you a "flight or fight" response. The topic is pretty commonly brought up. The character experienced it and is trying to deal with it. It may help or hurt you, just a warning.
I also did not expect to be moved by this book, a thriller, but the characters overcome these mental obstacles and rejoin their friendship. It was nice. Very good touch indeed.
March 1, 2024
Four days alone in the desert. Except they're not as alone as they think. A year ago something terrible happened to Katie at a party after Aster left. Desperate to heal and leave the past behind them, they tackle four days of hiking in the Utah backcountry. The desert they've loved for years has tricks up its sleeve though. An illness, an injury, and a freak storm leave them short on confidence and supplies. When they come across a young couple with extra supplies on the trail, they're grateful and relieved―at first. Riley is friendly but Finn spells trouble. That night Katie and Aster hear the couple fighting. In the morning, they find the couple's camp empty. Katie fears Riley is in trouble. Help is a two-day hike away. The clock is ticking. Supplies and water are running low. Can Katie and Aster make it out of the desert and find Riley before it's too late?
49 Miles Alone is sure to please fans of stories of survival in the wilderness. The beautiful cover sets the reader up perfectly for what is to come. The descriptions of the Utah desert are vivid and beautiful. You almost want to step in and have a little adventure yourself. It's very clear, though, that there are dangers at every turn.
The chapters shift between Aster and Katie's point of view, with snippets from a mysterious young woman who is alone somewhere along the trail and badly injured. On top of navigating narrow ridges and steep climbs Aster and Katie are working through a problem in their relationship. It won't stop them from working together, but it does have everything to do with their perceptions of the situation and people they come across.
I was glued to the page, frantic for Katie and Aster to get a move on while they contemplated their situation. There is some repetition of dialogue, but it is all realistic. I was worried about the trapped and lost woman. The obstacles the cousins kept encountering added to the suspense. I would have liked a few more technical details on supplies and what they were using.
There is also the matter of the identity of the injured woman, and the person who pushed her, to ponder. Things might not be as they appear. I figured things out but it took some time.
Parts of the ending wrapped up a little too quickly., but I really enjoyed this book. It has so many elements of survival stories that I enjoy and I think others will too. 49 Miles Alone succeeds in what it sets out to do. I highly recommend it!
Thank you to Netgalley for the chance to read!
49 Miles Alone is sure to please fans of stories of survival in the wilderness. The beautiful cover sets the reader up perfectly for what is to come. The descriptions of the Utah desert are vivid and beautiful. You almost want to step in and have a little adventure yourself. It's very clear, though, that there are dangers at every turn.
The chapters shift between Aster and Katie's point of view, with snippets from a mysterious young woman who is alone somewhere along the trail and badly injured. On top of navigating narrow ridges and steep climbs Aster and Katie are working through a problem in their relationship. It won't stop them from working together, but it does have everything to do with their perceptions of the situation and people they come across.
I was glued to the page, frantic for Katie and Aster to get a move on while they contemplated their situation. There is some repetition of dialogue, but it is all realistic. I was worried about the trapped and lost woman. The obstacles the cousins kept encountering added to the suspense. I would have liked a few more technical details on supplies and what they were using.
There is also the matter of the identity of the injured woman, and the person who pushed her, to ponder. Things might not be as they appear. I figured things out but it took some time.
Parts of the ending wrapped up a little too quickly., but I really enjoyed this book. It has so many elements of survival stories that I enjoy and I think others will too. 49 Miles Alone succeeds in what it sets out to do. I highly recommend it!
Thank you to Netgalley for the chance to read!
July 2, 2024
Katie and Aster are cousins, and they often hike together in Utah, where Aster lives. Being together in the wilds of the desert, at the mercy of nature, is a bonding experience they always look forward to – but this year, things are different between them. A year ago, Aster left Katie alone at a party, and Katie was subsequently assaulted. Now, Aster is overwhelmed with guilt over leaving Katie, and Katie is a shell of the fierce, vibrant young woman she used to be. They’re both hopeful that this year’s 49-mile hike will restore their bond, but they are beset by trouble from the beginning. When they meet Riley and Finn on the trail, they are at first relieved – but it soon becomes clear that there is tension simmering between the couple. After Riley confides some chilling truths about Finn, Aster and Katie hear them fighting overnight – and in the morning, they find Riley and Finn’s tent overturned and abandoned, with no sign of the couple. With their supplies dwindling and two more days of hiking through the rugged desert, will Aster and Katie be able to find Riley before Finn does?
49 Miles Alone is the first book I’ve read by Natalie D. Richards, and I found a lot about it to enjoy. The plot is propulsive, with rich atmosphere and an immediacy to the writing that fully immersed me in the world of the novel. The real strength of the book for me, though, was its portrayal of the lasting effects of trauma – on both a victim and their loved ones. The central characters of Aster and Katie are well-drawn and go through a lot of self-reflection and growth throughout the story. The relationship between the two central characters is well-written, with dialogue and decision-making that feel authentic.
The secondary characters in the story are less-developed, though, and there were some missed opportunities there. I have to admit that I guessed the direction the plot was taking pretty early on, but I was still invested in this story all the way through. If you enjoy adventure thrillers, add 49 Miles Alone to your reading list; it’s a solid entry in the genre. Thank you to Sourcebooks Fire for the early reading opportunity.
Content warning: mentions of SA, which occurs off-page and is not graphically detailed.
49 Miles Alone is the first book I’ve read by Natalie D. Richards, and I found a lot about it to enjoy. The plot is propulsive, with rich atmosphere and an immediacy to the writing that fully immersed me in the world of the novel. The real strength of the book for me, though, was its portrayal of the lasting effects of trauma – on both a victim and their loved ones. The central characters of Aster and Katie are well-drawn and go through a lot of self-reflection and growth throughout the story. The relationship between the two central characters is well-written, with dialogue and decision-making that feel authentic.
The secondary characters in the story are less-developed, though, and there were some missed opportunities there. I have to admit that I guessed the direction the plot was taking pretty early on, but I was still invested in this story all the way through. If you enjoy adventure thrillers, add 49 Miles Alone to your reading list; it’s a solid entry in the genre. Thank you to Sourcebooks Fire for the early reading opportunity.
Content warning: mentions of SA, which occurs off-page and is not graphically detailed.
June 2, 2024
Katie and Aster are on a 4-day, 49-mile hike in the Utah desert. They’ve done this before and are thoroughly prepared. The story shifts between Katie and Aster’s POV and a mysterious woman on the trail who is badly injured. Katie and Aster face serious obstacles and unexpected troubles that threaten their survival.
I was on the edge of my seat as the girls faced dangers on the trail. I loved the descriptions of the desert and the ominous elements of the story. The conflict between the girls makes sense, given what happened to Katie. They are both on edge for different reasons and have difficulty agreeing on things. But they must work together to get through this and survive.
Terrific book, recommended to fans of survival stories in grades 8 and up.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was on the edge of my seat as the girls faced dangers on the trail. I loved the descriptions of the desert and the ominous elements of the story. The conflict between the girls makes sense, given what happened to Katie. They are both on edge for different reasons and have difficulty agreeing on things. But they must work together to get through this and survive.
Terrific book, recommended to fans of survival stories in grades 8 and up.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 2, 2024
HAPPY PUB DAY! Thank you @sourcebooksfire for an ARC of this #midnightreads !
Hiking is already my worst nightmare. 49 miles, isolated, in the HEAT? Even worse. Add in a K!LLER???? Nah.
I was absolutely HOOKED on this one. I didn't want to put it down. Richards did a fantastic job of building suspense and keeping me questioning who I believed was the bad guy. I even loved that the main characters were well fleshed out and we got to watch them grow in strength.
There is a TW of multiple mentions of SA. However, not in grave detail. ❤️
Hiking is already my worst nightmare. 49 miles, isolated, in the HEAT? Even worse. Add in a K!LLER???? Nah.
I was absolutely HOOKED on this one. I didn't want to put it down. Richards did a fantastic job of building suspense and keeping me questioning who I believed was the bad guy. I even loved that the main characters were well fleshed out and we got to watch them grow in strength.
There is a TW of multiple mentions of SA. However, not in grave detail. ❤️
March 29, 2024
#ad I received a gifted advance copy of this book as part of the Midnight Reads promo box - so grateful @sourcebooksfire #partner
Where to even start with this review. I feel hungover, in a good way, after reading this book. Katie and Aster aren’t just cousins they are best friends. Aster is filled with guilt and remorse after she left Katie at a party by herself. Something terrible happened to Katie that night, changing both girls in major ways.
A few months later, the two girls decide to go on a four day hiking trip - they’ve always hiked together and they have this trip all planned out. The hike was supposed to be a trip that helped heal the girls, but it turned out to be the trip from hell, as things quickly began to fall apart.
There’s so many quotes I wanted to use for this review but they will have to wait until the finished copy of this book releases.
I loved this story, love that it promoted “girl power” and showed that girls can do anything they put their minds to. The terrain descriptions make you feel like you’re right there hiking with the girls. The setting almost is like a character in itself.
At one point the girls perceived that they were in danger and this really got me thinking. Is the perception of fear the same as known fear? I think it is. Whether it’s real tangible fear, or perception of fear, the human body reacts the same. It has no way of distinguishing real vs fake fear, more so the thing that is causing the fear because obviously fear is fear. I just thought it was intriguing that the things the girls were most afraid of played into their past traumas.
I loved the main characters and how they always had each other’s back. Now it wasn’t always perfect but they both had good intentions.
I also want to mention the ominous undertones which are felt throughout the entire book. Even when it seemed like not much was happening, it still felt like a lot was happening. I think this is one of the reasons this book will be a hit with people.
First time reading this author but I will be reading lots more - I’m hooked!
Where to even start with this review. I feel hungover, in a good way, after reading this book. Katie and Aster aren’t just cousins they are best friends. Aster is filled with guilt and remorse after she left Katie at a party by herself. Something terrible happened to Katie that night, changing both girls in major ways.
A few months later, the two girls decide to go on a four day hiking trip - they’ve always hiked together and they have this trip all planned out. The hike was supposed to be a trip that helped heal the girls, but it turned out to be the trip from hell, as things quickly began to fall apart.
There’s so many quotes I wanted to use for this review but they will have to wait until the finished copy of this book releases.
I loved this story, love that it promoted “girl power” and showed that girls can do anything they put their minds to. The terrain descriptions make you feel like you’re right there hiking with the girls. The setting almost is like a character in itself.
At one point the girls perceived that they were in danger and this really got me thinking. Is the perception of fear the same as known fear? I think it is. Whether it’s real tangible fear, or perception of fear, the human body reacts the same. It has no way of distinguishing real vs fake fear, more so the thing that is causing the fear because obviously fear is fear. I just thought it was intriguing that the things the girls were most afraid of played into their past traumas.
I loved the main characters and how they always had each other’s back. Now it wasn’t always perfect but they both had good intentions.
I also want to mention the ominous undertones which are felt throughout the entire book. Even when it seemed like not much was happening, it still felt like a lot was happening. I think this is one of the reasons this book will be a hit with people.
First time reading this author but I will be reading lots more - I’m hooked!
March 13, 2024
Before I begin with the review, I would like to personally thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks Fire for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
"49 Miles Alone" by Natalie D. Richards is a novel that is not only a first for me from her but also something that just further expanded my love for wilderness suspense novels (did I just coin a term?) Regardless, this novel is riveting; I could not stop reading it. I was instantaneously hooked. Unless it's Freida McFadden, I do find a lot of novels of this category to begin fairly slow. However, from page one, I am already grasped in the scenery.
Before I proceed with the rest of the review, I would like to note a few triggers I found while reading this novel. They were . . .
- rape
- rape rehabilitation (Katie is constantly triggered by hearing pants being unzipped)
- minor alcohol use
- minor drug use
- starvation
- dehydration
- murder
If any of the aforementioned triggers may be triggering for you, please do not read this novel. Moving along, the story begins with a reliving of the events that led up to Katie's rape, and then abruptly into the packing for Katie and her cousin, Aster's, 49-mile hike. They soon realize that they may not be alone--especially with Katie being constantly triggered--only worsening their uneasiness. That is only then exacerbated when they stumble onto a male and a female--who also have extra supplies--who go by the names of Finn and Riley--who also seem to be a couple. However, even after Riley's exuberant façade, and Finn's reticent one, it seems that something is amiss under the surface. Things only unravel from there, the idea of trust being existent becoming nonexistent. After Katie and Aster lose them after a harrowing night, they know that they must save Riley from the deranged Finn. Also, there was a woman to poked her way between the chapters here and there, speaking of an experience she is having--although without the who, what, when, where, why, and how.
I was enraptured by the sheer brilliance of this novel. What set it apart from the rest was its uncanny ability to keep me guessing and on the edge of my seat, eagerly anticipating the next twist and turn. The mere thought of predicting what was to come was but a futile exercise, for the author was a master of deception and knew how to keep me on my toes.
Indeed, the novel was a true testament to the author's prowess, as it was replete with high vocabulary, assertive prose, and vivid descriptions that transported me to the heart of the story. The characters were expertly crafted, each with their own unique personality and motivations, and the plot was as intricate as it was captivating.
As I delved deeper into the story, I couldn't help but marvel at the author's ability to conjure up a world that was both thrilling and dangerous. Whether it was the looming threat of death by scorpion sting or the constant struggle for survival, every page was brimming with excitement and intrigue.
It's not just me, right? Do you also find it challenging to visualize the long drives or hikes described in novels? I mean, picturing a 49-mile trail or a 3-hour drive seems like a daunting task when you're so used to imagining small towns or bustling cities. It's like the neurotransmitters in our brains refuse to connect when it comes to vast, open spaces. But, here's the thing, I recently came across a novel (49 Miles Alone) that made it so much easier to form those mental images, and I have to give a shoutout to the author, Richards, for making it happen.
In this particular novel, she crafted the scenes with such finesse that it felt like I was right there, experiencing everything alongside the characters. There were still some constraints, of course, especially when some crazy events were unfolding but overall, the entire experience was engaging and immersive. I don't want to spoil anything, but let's just say that this novel has its fair share of thrilling and unpredictable moments that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
On the other hand, Richards did miss a few things that I would've liked from a novel like this. First and foremost, even though this is an ARC read, there were quite a prodigious amount of grammatical errors. I do not have experience based on her other novels, but if she can put this much effort into such a stunning novel, I'm sure she's able to do that for her grammar. Nobody is perfect, however, there were still a fairly large amount of grammatical errors that I hope get corrected pre-publication. In addition, I would've liked her to not shroud the novel in so much mystery. I would've appreciated it if she could've delved into the backstory of the "background" characters just a little bit more. I was a bit confused about who those people were when mentioned in the novel a few times--siblings, etc.
All of the aforementioned issues do not accumulate to form a bad novel. This novel was astounding in nearly every way. I was constantly on the edge of my seat, always wondering what was going to happen next. I do appreciate Richard's writing style, and I cannot wait to read her other novels. Even though I tend to be a more adult novel reader, I do like a YA novel here and there. Even though I can be a bit apprehensive about YA novels, this one hit just the spot, finding the balance between the two. It's suitable for both worlds.
Overall, "49 Miles Alone" earned itself 4/5 stars for being such a riveting wilderness mystery/suspense novel. I was constantly on the edge of my seat, practically ready to pounce in anticipation, waiting for every twist and turn--thinking I was prepared, but I was not. However, with it being an ARC reader, there will be some differences between pre-publication and post-publication, but those did not accumulate to make this novel difficult to read. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and I cannot wait to read her other novels. I would recommend this novel to anyone who is not only a fan of Natalie D. Richards but also to anyone who loves a good wilderness mystery or just a good mystery or suspense novel in general.
"49 Miles Alone" by Natalie D. Richards is a novel that is not only a first for me from her but also something that just further expanded my love for wilderness suspense novels (did I just coin a term?) Regardless, this novel is riveting; I could not stop reading it. I was instantaneously hooked. Unless it's Freida McFadden, I do find a lot of novels of this category to begin fairly slow. However, from page one, I am already grasped in the scenery.
Before I proceed with the rest of the review, I would like to note a few triggers I found while reading this novel. They were . . .
- rape
- rape rehabilitation (Katie is constantly triggered by hearing pants being unzipped)
- minor alcohol use
- minor drug use
- starvation
- dehydration
- murder
If any of the aforementioned triggers may be triggering for you, please do not read this novel. Moving along, the story begins with a reliving of the events that led up to Katie's rape, and then abruptly into the packing for Katie and her cousin, Aster's, 49-mile hike. They soon realize that they may not be alone--especially with Katie being constantly triggered--only worsening their uneasiness. That is only then exacerbated when they stumble onto a male and a female--who also have extra supplies--who go by the names of Finn and Riley--who also seem to be a couple. However, even after Riley's exuberant façade, and Finn's reticent one, it seems that something is amiss under the surface. Things only unravel from there, the idea of trust being existent becoming nonexistent. After Katie and Aster lose them after a harrowing night, they know that they must save Riley from the deranged Finn. Also, there was a woman to poked her way between the chapters here and there, speaking of an experience she is having--although without the who, what, when, where, why, and how.
I was enraptured by the sheer brilliance of this novel. What set it apart from the rest was its uncanny ability to keep me guessing and on the edge of my seat, eagerly anticipating the next twist and turn. The mere thought of predicting what was to come was but a futile exercise, for the author was a master of deception and knew how to keep me on my toes.
Indeed, the novel was a true testament to the author's prowess, as it was replete with high vocabulary, assertive prose, and vivid descriptions that transported me to the heart of the story. The characters were expertly crafted, each with their own unique personality and motivations, and the plot was as intricate as it was captivating.
As I delved deeper into the story, I couldn't help but marvel at the author's ability to conjure up a world that was both thrilling and dangerous. Whether it was the looming threat of death by scorpion sting or the constant struggle for survival, every page was brimming with excitement and intrigue.
It's not just me, right? Do you also find it challenging to visualize the long drives or hikes described in novels? I mean, picturing a 49-mile trail or a 3-hour drive seems like a daunting task when you're so used to imagining small towns or bustling cities. It's like the neurotransmitters in our brains refuse to connect when it comes to vast, open spaces. But, here's the thing, I recently came across a novel (49 Miles Alone) that made it so much easier to form those mental images, and I have to give a shoutout to the author, Richards, for making it happen.
In this particular novel, she crafted the scenes with such finesse that it felt like I was right there, experiencing everything alongside the characters. There were still some constraints, of course, especially when some crazy events were unfolding but overall, the entire experience was engaging and immersive. I don't want to spoil anything, but let's just say that this novel has its fair share of thrilling and unpredictable moments that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
On the other hand, Richards did miss a few things that I would've liked from a novel like this. First and foremost, even though this is an ARC read, there were quite a prodigious amount of grammatical errors. I do not have experience based on her other novels, but if she can put this much effort into such a stunning novel, I'm sure she's able to do that for her grammar. Nobody is perfect, however, there were still a fairly large amount of grammatical errors that I hope get corrected pre-publication. In addition, I would've liked her to not shroud the novel in so much mystery. I would've appreciated it if she could've delved into the backstory of the "background" characters just a little bit more. I was a bit confused about who those people were when mentioned in the novel a few times--siblings, etc.
All of the aforementioned issues do not accumulate to form a bad novel. This novel was astounding in nearly every way. I was constantly on the edge of my seat, always wondering what was going to happen next. I do appreciate Richard's writing style, and I cannot wait to read her other novels. Even though I tend to be a more adult novel reader, I do like a YA novel here and there. Even though I can be a bit apprehensive about YA novels, this one hit just the spot, finding the balance between the two. It's suitable for both worlds.
Overall, "49 Miles Alone" earned itself 4/5 stars for being such a riveting wilderness mystery/suspense novel. I was constantly on the edge of my seat, practically ready to pounce in anticipation, waiting for every twist and turn--thinking I was prepared, but I was not. However, with it being an ARC reader, there will be some differences between pre-publication and post-publication, but those did not accumulate to make this novel difficult to read. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and I cannot wait to read her other novels. I would recommend this novel to anyone who is not only a fan of Natalie D. Richards but also to anyone who loves a good wilderness mystery or just a good mystery or suspense novel in general.
July 13, 2024
I was provided an ARC of this book via Netgalley, all opinions are my own.
This was a great YA thriller about two cousins on a 49 mile hike through the Utah desert. This is a trigger warning but it is also something that happens in chapter 1 and not mentioned in the synopsis. It is a theme in the book that I think is important too mention. The cousins are trying to heal their relationship after Katie was sexually assaulted a year ago at a party that she and Aster went to together. Aster left the party and feels guilty about what happened. Katie knows it wasn't her fault, however she is still angry and has PTSD about the incident. Aster would like her could from before the incident back and can't understand why Katie isn't the same person she used to be. The book alternates between their point of views, and Aster's is probably realistic, but it is still lacks compassion for what Katie went through and what her triggers are. Katie is using this trip to try to get back to that person pre-incident, but she is terrified of so many things and has alot of triggers. Katie also has a hard time talking about that night and explaining why she freezes sometimes and she lives in a constant state of terror and pain. If you have ever talked to a victim of SA, please be gentle and patient, they went through something horrific that you can't imagine. It is not something they just get over after a year.
As the girls set off on their 49 mile hike with their packs and a plan, things quickly take a turn for the worse. The map is off by miles, Aster develops a cold, she gets injured, they run into a bad storm ruining some of their gear and supplies, and finally they run into a couple acting strangely. Katie is terrified of Finn and is sure that he has done something terrible to his girlfriend Riley. They are low on supplies, but they don't want to leave Riley in the desert if they can help her. The girls put together what they know and things don't add up, but when Aster is catastrophically injured, Katie must go find help and steer clear of anyone who might be out to hurt them.
There were a few unrealistic moments, and I felt like for experienced hikers Katie and Aster weren't prepared for this hike supply wise. They didn't have some of the basic tools I would expect them to have. I get what the author was trying to do, and perhaps this will resonate better with a younger reader. Overall this was a quick fun read, perfect for the more mature YA reader.
This was a great YA thriller about two cousins on a 49 mile hike through the Utah desert. This is a trigger warning but it is also something that happens in chapter 1 and not mentioned in the synopsis. It is a theme in the book that I think is important too mention. The cousins are trying to heal their relationship after Katie was sexually assaulted a year ago at a party that she and Aster went to together. Aster left the party and feels guilty about what happened. Katie knows it wasn't her fault, however she is still angry and has PTSD about the incident. Aster would like her could from before the incident back and can't understand why Katie isn't the same person she used to be. The book alternates between their point of views, and Aster's is probably realistic, but it is still lacks compassion for what Katie went through and what her triggers are. Katie is using this trip to try to get back to that person pre-incident, but she is terrified of so many things and has alot of triggers. Katie also has a hard time talking about that night and explaining why she freezes sometimes and she lives in a constant state of terror and pain. If you have ever talked to a victim of SA, please be gentle and patient, they went through something horrific that you can't imagine. It is not something they just get over after a year.
As the girls set off on their 49 mile hike with their packs and a plan, things quickly take a turn for the worse. The map is off by miles, Aster develops a cold, she gets injured, they run into a bad storm ruining some of their gear and supplies, and finally they run into a couple acting strangely. Katie is terrified of Finn and is sure that he has done something terrible to his girlfriend Riley. They are low on supplies, but they don't want to leave Riley in the desert if they can help her. The girls put together what they know and things don't add up, but when Aster is catastrophically injured, Katie must go find help and steer clear of anyone who might be out to hurt them.
There were a few unrealistic moments, and I felt like for experienced hikers Katie and Aster weren't prepared for this hike supply wise. They didn't have some of the basic tools I would expect them to have. I get what the author was trying to do, and perhaps this will resonate better with a younger reader. Overall this was a quick fun read, perfect for the more mature YA reader.
April 3, 2024
A fast-paced, tense thriller featuring two girls alone in the Moab desert…except they’re not alone.
Four Miles Alone follows two cousins, Katie and Aster a year after Katie survives a devasting, awful night that lingers in her to this day. She’s desperate to heal from the trauma and the cousins decide to tackle four days of hiking in the Utah backcountry. It’s a desert they’ve hiked in for years except this time, danger lurks more prominently. With an unplanned injury, illness, and freak, flooding storm leave them off-kilter and plan, they’re relieved to find a young couple on the trail. Except, Katie doesn’t trust the boyfriend and the two girls have to fight to survive against the elements and people with secrets and danger.
This is such a fun thriller. I love books set in the wild like this, where survival is really dependent on the setting and the character’s knowledge. Survival stories are something I thoroughly enjoy, mostly because you could never catch me in these situations and I love to live vicariously through the characters. I loved the setting here, set in the Utah desert. It was so interesting and descriptive—I could picture the landscape so easily even though I’ve never been there. It made for such an immersive, tense read as the plot really takes a lot of turns.
Katie and Aster were good main characters. It’s a dual POV so we get to see from both of them and a third, mysterious POV. Aster is so good at survival! She’s so smart and knowledgeable as her dad has taught her a lot. But so is Katie which I found really refreshing. They’re both very capable and make good choices for the most part, and the ones I didn’t agree with, made sense for what they’ve portrayed. I feel so bad for Katie but she overcame so much throughout the novel. So did Aster as there was some lingering guilt for the events from the previous year, but it didn’t derail their relationship. I really enjoyed reading about them and their friendship as cousins. They have a very strong bond that I appreciated.
The plot is really great and is so easy to read. It’s incredibly fast paced and keeps you on the edge of your seat. The ending was a good twist that I didn’t entirely see coming so that was fun to read about. The author does a really great job of keeping you guessing until the final reveal.
Definitely would recommend if you like YA survival thrillers!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Four Miles Alone follows two cousins, Katie and Aster a year after Katie survives a devasting, awful night that lingers in her to this day. She’s desperate to heal from the trauma and the cousins decide to tackle four days of hiking in the Utah backcountry. It’s a desert they’ve hiked in for years except this time, danger lurks more prominently. With an unplanned injury, illness, and freak, flooding storm leave them off-kilter and plan, they’re relieved to find a young couple on the trail. Except, Katie doesn’t trust the boyfriend and the two girls have to fight to survive against the elements and people with secrets and danger.
This is such a fun thriller. I love books set in the wild like this, where survival is really dependent on the setting and the character’s knowledge. Survival stories are something I thoroughly enjoy, mostly because you could never catch me in these situations and I love to live vicariously through the characters. I loved the setting here, set in the Utah desert. It was so interesting and descriptive—I could picture the landscape so easily even though I’ve never been there. It made for such an immersive, tense read as the plot really takes a lot of turns.
Katie and Aster were good main characters. It’s a dual POV so we get to see from both of them and a third, mysterious POV. Aster is so good at survival! She’s so smart and knowledgeable as her dad has taught her a lot. But so is Katie which I found really refreshing. They’re both very capable and make good choices for the most part, and the ones I didn’t agree with, made sense for what they’ve portrayed. I feel so bad for Katie but she overcame so much throughout the novel. So did Aster as there was some lingering guilt for the events from the previous year, but it didn’t derail their relationship. I really enjoyed reading about them and their friendship as cousins. They have a very strong bond that I appreciated.
The plot is really great and is so easy to read. It’s incredibly fast paced and keeps you on the edge of your seat. The ending was a good twist that I didn’t entirely see coming so that was fun to read about. The author does a really great job of keeping you guessing until the final reveal.
Definitely would recommend if you like YA survival thrillers!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 20, 2024
Fantastic hiking & camping detail, in a place I've never been and haven't even read much about. I also really loved the bond between the cousins, even as they were still trying to find their way back to how they used to be. On that note: high five for a YA with zero romance.
It suffers a little bit from the same problem as Four Found Dead, with frequent flashbacks to A Terrible Backstory (don't take a shot every time you read "rustle of fabric" or you may die), but having two different main characters helps with that, and this time it's outweighed by the sheer excellence of the rest of the story. (That said: if rape is a trigger for you, you'll want to avoid this book.)
If you liked the same aspects I did but want more mystery-thriller and less sexual assault trauma, try One Was Lost. I think this is tied with that one as my favorites from this author so far.
It suffers a little bit from the same problem as Four Found Dead, with frequent flashbacks to A Terrible Backstory (don't take a shot every time you read "rustle of fabric" or you may die), but having two different main characters helps with that, and this time it's outweighed by the sheer excellence of the rest of the story. (That said: if rape is a trigger for you, you'll want to avoid this book.)
If you liked the same aspects I did but want more mystery-thriller and less sexual assault trauma, try One Was Lost. I think this is tied with that one as my favorites from this author so far.
July 27, 2024
Despite some mixed reviews, I enjoyed this book! I hadn’t read a thriller in a while, and this was a good book to get back into this genre. The shorter chapters were a plus, and the chapter endings kept me on edge and wanting to keep reading. I found the ending to be a bit rushed, and I thought it was a little predictable. However, I loved piecing together the mystery. The hiking plot was interesting to read about, and I liked it more since I had just gotten home from camp when I picked this up. Overall, I liked this book!
July 1, 2024
I received this as an ARC and I must say, Richards has done it again! She has written a captivating YA thriller that spans for all ages.
As two cousins, Kate and Aster set out on the hike of a lifetime we get to see into their memories and thoughts as they both deal with a horrific event that has occurred in the last year. Can they hike as usual? Can they trust each other? What is around every corner?
There is also the 0 mile hiker POV which, as the reader, we don’t know if this is one of the girls or someone else. Their POV has eye opening and terrifying moments.
As two cousins, Kate and Aster set out on the hike of a lifetime we get to see into their memories and thoughts as they both deal with a horrific event that has occurred in the last year. Can they hike as usual? Can they trust each other? What is around every corner?
There is also the 0 mile hiker POV which, as the reader, we don’t know if this is one of the girls or someone else. Their POV has eye opening and terrifying moments.
July 26, 2024
Two girls set out on a wilderness journey, meeting with natural dangers as well as a human predator they must escape. What's not to like? It starts a bit slow with some plot and character building, but speeds up toward the middle until the suspense is excruciating. Richards is great at creating tense and disquieting atmospheres ("Five Total Strangers"). Recommended for YA as well as adults. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
March 25, 2024
Katie and Aster are cousins who take hiking trips each year. They are experienced, so they decide to hike 49 miles of the Moab desert in Utah. Something happens on the hike, as they meet several people along the way and not all of them are good people. Natalie Richards writes a fantastic YA novel - one that adults can enjoy.
July 13, 2024
This book was amazing! I couldn’t put it down!
July 21, 2024
YA survival thriller - cousins hiking and camping together in the Utah desert. It was intense but a little predictable. Good ending.
July 27, 2024
3.5 stars.Fast-paced book. Good read.
February 23, 2024
Thank you Netgalley and Sourcebooks Fire for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
"49 Miles Alone" by Natalie D. Richards delivers a powerful story that focuses on survival and the strength that comes from relying on others. The book combines elements of survival, mystery, and personal redemption. Cousins Katie and Aster embark on a backpacking trip in Utah's rugged wilderness, seeking to heal the rift in their relationship caused by a traumatic event. However, their journey takes a harrowing turn as they encounter unexpected dangers and face the looming threat of a sinister presence lurking in the wilderness. Before going into the review, I do want to provide a trigger warning about SA in the book as the summary does not clearly display that this is a pretty major part of one of the character’s past. While the actual event itself isn’t described, you do get to see the effects on the character, like PTSD instances.
Now, going into the book, I definitely enjoyed this one! While I do like Richards’s books that are set in Columbus more (I’m from Columbus, so I always love the vivid descriptions of the city with locations I’ve actually been in and grown up around), I liked how Richards changed up the setting to focus on the Utah backcountry. Richards skillfully immerses you in the stark beauty and unforgiving terrain of the Moab desert, painting vivid descriptions of the challenging landscape and the girls' struggle for survival. The tone is immediately tense in the book as things start going wrong in the hike right away. The attention to detail brings the backpacking experience to life, from navigating lesser marked trails to dealing with unexpected hail storms and dwindling supplies. I quickly found myself on the edge of my seat as Katie and Aster grapple with physical exhaustion, illness, and the ever-present specter of danger.
I do want to note that the overall plot of the story (the killer and being hunted down) takes awhile to get started. You don’t actually get to meet the two mysterious other hikers until around 40% of the book, which is really when the suspense starts. But, even though it does have a bit of a slow start, the purpose is to immerse you in the setting and the survival-aspect of the book. There is definitely a feeling of unease and uncertainty that pervades every chapter. The identity of the true villain remains shrouded in mystery until the gripping conclusion, and I honestly didn’t expect the exact twist at the end.
While the book primarily focuses on the girls' fight for survival, it also delves into deeper themes of guilt, trauma, and redemption. Aster grapples with overwhelming guilt over her perceived role in Katie's assault, while Katie struggles to come to terms with the lasting effects of her trauma. Their journey through the wilderness becomes a metaphorical journey of self-discovery and healing, as they confront their pasts and forge a path toward redemption. I will say that I thought Katie was a bit more developed; I was more invested in her story and her experiences while Aster, I think, needed more development, more motivation.
Overall, "49 Miles Alone" is a captivating and emotionally resonant read that will appeal to fans of survival thrillers and mystery novels alike. I definitely can’t wait to read another Natalie D. Richards novel!
"49 Miles Alone" by Natalie D. Richards delivers a powerful story that focuses on survival and the strength that comes from relying on others. The book combines elements of survival, mystery, and personal redemption. Cousins Katie and Aster embark on a backpacking trip in Utah's rugged wilderness, seeking to heal the rift in their relationship caused by a traumatic event. However, their journey takes a harrowing turn as they encounter unexpected dangers and face the looming threat of a sinister presence lurking in the wilderness. Before going into the review, I do want to provide a trigger warning about SA in the book as the summary does not clearly display that this is a pretty major part of one of the character’s past. While the actual event itself isn’t described, you do get to see the effects on the character, like PTSD instances.
Now, going into the book, I definitely enjoyed this one! While I do like Richards’s books that are set in Columbus more (I’m from Columbus, so I always love the vivid descriptions of the city with locations I’ve actually been in and grown up around), I liked how Richards changed up the setting to focus on the Utah backcountry. Richards skillfully immerses you in the stark beauty and unforgiving terrain of the Moab desert, painting vivid descriptions of the challenging landscape and the girls' struggle for survival. The tone is immediately tense in the book as things start going wrong in the hike right away. The attention to detail brings the backpacking experience to life, from navigating lesser marked trails to dealing with unexpected hail storms and dwindling supplies. I quickly found myself on the edge of my seat as Katie and Aster grapple with physical exhaustion, illness, and the ever-present specter of danger.
I do want to note that the overall plot of the story (the killer and being hunted down) takes awhile to get started. You don’t actually get to meet the two mysterious other hikers until around 40% of the book, which is really when the suspense starts. But, even though it does have a bit of a slow start, the purpose is to immerse you in the setting and the survival-aspect of the book. There is definitely a feeling of unease and uncertainty that pervades every chapter. The identity of the true villain remains shrouded in mystery until the gripping conclusion, and I honestly didn’t expect the exact twist at the end.
While the book primarily focuses on the girls' fight for survival, it also delves into deeper themes of guilt, trauma, and redemption. Aster grapples with overwhelming guilt over her perceived role in Katie's assault, while Katie struggles to come to terms with the lasting effects of her trauma. Their journey through the wilderness becomes a metaphorical journey of self-discovery and healing, as they confront their pasts and forge a path toward redemption. I will say that I thought Katie was a bit more developed; I was more invested in her story and her experiences while Aster, I think, needed more development, more motivation.
Overall, "49 Miles Alone" is a captivating and emotionally resonant read that will appeal to fans of survival thrillers and mystery novels alike. I definitely can’t wait to read another Natalie D. Richards novel!
August 31, 2024
Natalie D. Richards has once again delivered a gripping YA thriller in 49 Miles Alone, a novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Known for her ability to weave tension and emotion into her narratives, Richards takes her craft to new heights with this heart-pounding story of survival, resilience, and the deep psychological scars left by trauma.
The novel follows the journey of Amelia, a teenage girl who finds herself stranded and alone in the dense, foreboding wilderness after a car accident leaves her far from civilization. As she navigates the harsh landscape, battling both external and internal demons, Amelia’s story becomes one of self-discovery and tenacity. Richards does an excellent job of capturing the fear, desperation, and small glimmers of hope that come with Amelia’s situation, making the reader feel as if they are right there with her, struggling through every mile.
What sets 49 Miles Alone apart from other survival stories is the depth of its protagonist. Amelia is not just fighting the elements; she is grappling with a past that haunts her at every turn. Richards masterfully intertwines flashbacks with present-day events, revealing the layers of Amelia’s character and the traumatic experiences that have shaped her. This dual narrative structure adds a layer of complexity to the novel, making it more than just a survival story—it’s a poignant exploration of healing and redemption.
The pacing of the novel is impeccable, with Richards skillfully balancing moments of intense action with quieter, more reflective scenes. The tension builds steadily, making it impossible to put the book down. The wilderness itself becomes a character, its dangers and mysteries adding to the suspense. Readers will find themselves holding their breath as Amelia faces one harrowing challenge after another.
Richards' prose is vivid and evocative, bringing the wild, unforgiving landscape to life in all its terrifying beauty. The author’s attention to detail enhances the realism of Amelia’s journey, making the reader feel every scrape, every breath, and every heartbeat.
In 49 Miles Alone, Natalie D. Richards has crafted a story that is both thrilling and deeply emotional. It’s a book that will resonate with readers long after they’ve turned the final page, leaving them reflecting on the power of the human spirit and the resilience needed to overcome even the darkest of circumstances. Fans of Richards’ previous works, as well as newcomers to her writing, will find this novel to be a compelling and unforgettable read.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
The novel follows the journey of Amelia, a teenage girl who finds herself stranded and alone in the dense, foreboding wilderness after a car accident leaves her far from civilization. As she navigates the harsh landscape, battling both external and internal demons, Amelia’s story becomes one of self-discovery and tenacity. Richards does an excellent job of capturing the fear, desperation, and small glimmers of hope that come with Amelia’s situation, making the reader feel as if they are right there with her, struggling through every mile.
What sets 49 Miles Alone apart from other survival stories is the depth of its protagonist. Amelia is not just fighting the elements; she is grappling with a past that haunts her at every turn. Richards masterfully intertwines flashbacks with present-day events, revealing the layers of Amelia’s character and the traumatic experiences that have shaped her. This dual narrative structure adds a layer of complexity to the novel, making it more than just a survival story—it’s a poignant exploration of healing and redemption.
The pacing of the novel is impeccable, with Richards skillfully balancing moments of intense action with quieter, more reflective scenes. The tension builds steadily, making it impossible to put the book down. The wilderness itself becomes a character, its dangers and mysteries adding to the suspense. Readers will find themselves holding their breath as Amelia faces one harrowing challenge after another.
Richards' prose is vivid and evocative, bringing the wild, unforgiving landscape to life in all its terrifying beauty. The author’s attention to detail enhances the realism of Amelia’s journey, making the reader feel every scrape, every breath, and every heartbeat.
In 49 Miles Alone, Natalie D. Richards has crafted a story that is both thrilling and deeply emotional. It’s a book that will resonate with readers long after they’ve turned the final page, leaving them reflecting on the power of the human spirit and the resilience needed to overcome even the darkest of circumstances. Fans of Richards’ previous works, as well as newcomers to her writing, will find this novel to be a compelling and unforgettable read.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
April 1, 2024
49 Miles Alone
—Natalie D. Richards
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
One year ago, Katie and her cousin, Aster survived a tragedy, but it ultimately harmed their friendship. Now, a year later, they’re determined to hike 49 miles together in the backcountry of Utah. Neither knows how to make things feel normal on their trek, but both girls need this time to try.
When everything that can go wrong does, Aster and Katie are forced to work together to make it through the desert together, to survive… but an unexpected couple they meet on their trip makes it difficult.
In this emotional young adult thriller, Natalie D. Richards has readers on the edge of their seat, craving to know what happens.
This book starts out with an emotional scene, one that a lot of readers will easily relate to, to understand with compassion and empathy. I know I did. I bonded with these characters on different levels as the story began, finding myself captivated by the strength that these girls endure at a young age.
Natalie D. Richards is, as so many of you know, my favorite thriller author of all time, but this book is slightly different from anything I’ve read from her before. This book is a story of survival in more ways than one. Richards elegantly depicts brokenness and loneliness as strength, and I truthfully believe this book is one that could help others find their strength just in reading it.
I stayed up all night reading, and there was never a dull moment. Richards excels in detail, in captivating plots that have you second guessing your fifth guesses. Strong with an innate capability to make readers feel like they are right there with the characters, Richards doesn’t just write stories. She writes an experience, and this one is one you do NOT want to miss. Truly.
With dual POV, this story is packed to the brim with action, excitement and emotion that absolutely will have readers recommending this book to each and every person they meet. I can’t wait to share my love for this twisty thriller with every reader I know.
Thanks to @netgalley, @sourcebooksfire, and @natdrichards for this ARC. 49 Miles Alone releases July 2, 2024.
This experience is not one to miss.
—Natalie D. Richards
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
One year ago, Katie and her cousin, Aster survived a tragedy, but it ultimately harmed their friendship. Now, a year later, they’re determined to hike 49 miles together in the backcountry of Utah. Neither knows how to make things feel normal on their trek, but both girls need this time to try.
When everything that can go wrong does, Aster and Katie are forced to work together to make it through the desert together, to survive… but an unexpected couple they meet on their trip makes it difficult.
In this emotional young adult thriller, Natalie D. Richards has readers on the edge of their seat, craving to know what happens.
This book starts out with an emotional scene, one that a lot of readers will easily relate to, to understand with compassion and empathy. I know I did. I bonded with these characters on different levels as the story began, finding myself captivated by the strength that these girls endure at a young age.
Natalie D. Richards is, as so many of you know, my favorite thriller author of all time, but this book is slightly different from anything I’ve read from her before. This book is a story of survival in more ways than one. Richards elegantly depicts brokenness and loneliness as strength, and I truthfully believe this book is one that could help others find their strength just in reading it.
I stayed up all night reading, and there was never a dull moment. Richards excels in detail, in captivating plots that have you second guessing your fifth guesses. Strong with an innate capability to make readers feel like they are right there with the characters, Richards doesn’t just write stories. She writes an experience, and this one is one you do NOT want to miss. Truly.
With dual POV, this story is packed to the brim with action, excitement and emotion that absolutely will have readers recommending this book to each and every person they meet. I can’t wait to share my love for this twisty thriller with every reader I know.
Thanks to @netgalley, @sourcebooksfire, and @natdrichards for this ARC. 49 Miles Alone releases July 2, 2024.
This experience is not one to miss.
July 14, 2024
After a devastating night changes both their lives, cousins Aster and Katie reunite 11 months later to spend four days backpacking in the Utah desert, hoping to repair a fractured relationship. The desert is unforgiving of mistakes, and it throws everything at them – wildlife, storms, and narrow, dangerous routes. Low on supplies, the experienced hikers are grateful to get help from Finn and Riley, a couple they meet on the trail. Riley’s too-bright chatter and Finn’s behaviour puts them both on edge, but with darkness falling, Katie and Aster set up camp nearby anyway. When the couple start fighting, Riley shows up at their tent begging for help. When Finn comes after her she takes off – with Aster’s GPS. Aster stops Katie from following – it’s simply too dangerous in the dark. In the morning, both are still gone, and it’s clear Riley is in trouble. With no way of reaching outside help, it’s up to the cousins to find her before something terrible happens. This is a high-tension adventure story, with authentic dialogue and a realistic relationship between two close cousins. The desert setting is beautifully detailed, and the rigours and thrills of backpacking in Utah are well described. I do question a couple of their decisions – why hike a closed trail? – but I did enjoy reading of two teens drawing on their skills and preparation as they faced numerous challenges. And while I understand why author Richards included a woman in danger in the plot, it feels like this could have been a terrific story about two cousins on a difficult backpacking trip to repair their relationship without a human menace in the mix. Americans are inundated with stories of evildoers everywhere, and it contributes to a fearful and distrustful view of the world, when what we need most is to be building trust in each other. It’s a great thriller, but it could have been a great novel without the threat. My thanks to Sourcebooks Fire for the advance reading copy provided through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
June 25, 2024
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Natalie D Richards for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for 49 Miles Alone coming out July 2, 2024. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
A year ago, Katie and her cousin Aster survived a night that left their world and easy friendship fractured. Desperate to heal and leave the past behind them, they tackle four days of hiking in the Utah backcountry. But the desert they've loved for years has tricks up its sleeve.
An illness, an injury, and a freak storm leave them short on confidence and supplies. When they come across a young couple with extra supplies on the trail, they're grateful and relieved―at first. Riley exudes friendliness, but everything about her boyfriend Finn spells trouble.
That night, after some chilling admissions about Finn from Riley, Katie and Aster wake to hear the couple fighting. Helpless and trapped in the darkness, they witness Riley's desperate race into the night, with Finn chasing after.
In the morning, they find the couple's camp, but Riley and Finn? Vanished. Katie is sure Riley is in trouble. And with help a two-day hike away, they know they are the only ones who can save her before something terrible happens. The clock is ticking and their supplies are dwindling, but Katie and Aster know they have to find Riley before Finn―or the desert―gets to her first.
I love this author’s books! She writes a lot of survival type stories and they’re always full of action and suspense. This book was definitely suspenseful. Hiking for days in the desert can always become dangerous. I loved the setting in Moab. I don’t think it’s the typical setting. I really enjoyed the characters. Cousins Katie and Aster have a strained relationship due to their past. There are some darker themes that they need to heal from. I loved the story. I’m definitely excited to read other books by this author!
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys desert survival stories!
A year ago, Katie and her cousin Aster survived a night that left their world and easy friendship fractured. Desperate to heal and leave the past behind them, they tackle four days of hiking in the Utah backcountry. But the desert they've loved for years has tricks up its sleeve.
An illness, an injury, and a freak storm leave them short on confidence and supplies. When they come across a young couple with extra supplies on the trail, they're grateful and relieved―at first. Riley exudes friendliness, but everything about her boyfriend Finn spells trouble.
That night, after some chilling admissions about Finn from Riley, Katie and Aster wake to hear the couple fighting. Helpless and trapped in the darkness, they witness Riley's desperate race into the night, with Finn chasing after.
In the morning, they find the couple's camp, but Riley and Finn? Vanished. Katie is sure Riley is in trouble. And with help a two-day hike away, they know they are the only ones who can save her before something terrible happens. The clock is ticking and their supplies are dwindling, but Katie and Aster know they have to find Riley before Finn―or the desert―gets to her first.
I love this author’s books! She writes a lot of survival type stories and they’re always full of action and suspense. This book was definitely suspenseful. Hiking for days in the desert can always become dangerous. I loved the setting in Moab. I don’t think it’s the typical setting. I really enjoyed the characters. Cousins Katie and Aster have a strained relationship due to their past. There are some darker themes that they need to heal from. I loved the story. I’m definitely excited to read other books by this author!
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys desert survival stories!
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September 16, 2024Trigger Warnings: Mention of rape
Desperate to heal from a night that left their world fractured a year ago, cousins Katie and Aster tackle a grueling four day hiking trip through the backcountry of Utah. But this trip is throwing multiple curveballs at them: an illness, an injury, and a freak storm leave them short on both confidence and supplies.
When they come across a couple with extra supplies, they’re grateful and relieved - at first. Later that evening, after getting troublesome vibes from Finn, Kaite and Aster wake up and hear the couple fighting. The cousins watch desperately as the girlfriend, Riley, disappears into the night with Finn chasing after her. In the morning, their camp hasn’t been touched. Katie is sure Riley is in trouble, but with help a two-day hike away, they know they’re the only ones who can offer aid before Finn - or the desert - gets to her first.
I really appreciate the way that Natalie D. Richards describes hiking and the difference between a day hike and a 4 day hike where everything you need is supposed to be on your back. Richards also did a great job at describing the landscape and both the beauty and the ruggedness of Utah’s backcountry. I’ve gone on a trip to the Rocky Mountains where we did a lot of day hiking and that was so much fun - but one of our days, we experienced every type of weather; heat, rain, snow, ice, wind, all in one trip! I don’t think I could even do a day hike in the desert, yet alone a 4 day hike! I hate being hot and sweating, so gross.
Anywho, this was an interesting read. I will admit it’s a bit slow at the beginning because it’s a lot of the cousins refinding their footing with one another after the events of that night nearly a year ago. There’s a weird vibe between them that they’ve got to work through but neither one really knows where to start.
*Thank you Sourcebooks Fire and NetGalley for an advance digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Desperate to heal from a night that left their world fractured a year ago, cousins Katie and Aster tackle a grueling four day hiking trip through the backcountry of Utah. But this trip is throwing multiple curveballs at them: an illness, an injury, and a freak storm leave them short on both confidence and supplies.
When they come across a couple with extra supplies, they’re grateful and relieved - at first. Later that evening, after getting troublesome vibes from Finn, Kaite and Aster wake up and hear the couple fighting. The cousins watch desperately as the girlfriend, Riley, disappears into the night with Finn chasing after her. In the morning, their camp hasn’t been touched. Katie is sure Riley is in trouble, but with help a two-day hike away, they know they’re the only ones who can offer aid before Finn - or the desert - gets to her first.
I really appreciate the way that Natalie D. Richards describes hiking and the difference between a day hike and a 4 day hike where everything you need is supposed to be on your back. Richards also did a great job at describing the landscape and both the beauty and the ruggedness of Utah’s backcountry. I’ve gone on a trip to the Rocky Mountains where we did a lot of day hiking and that was so much fun - but one of our days, we experienced every type of weather; heat, rain, snow, ice, wind, all in one trip! I don’t think I could even do a day hike in the desert, yet alone a 4 day hike! I hate being hot and sweating, so gross.
Anywho, this was an interesting read. I will admit it’s a bit slow at the beginning because it’s a lot of the cousins refinding their footing with one another after the events of that night nearly a year ago. There’s a weird vibe between them that they’ve got to work through but neither one really knows where to start.
*Thank you Sourcebooks Fire and NetGalley for an advance digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
June 6, 2024
Eleven months after a traumatic night changed their lives and their friendship forever, cousins Katie and Aster are setting out on a four day hike through isolated Utah backcountry in an attempt to heal and leave the past behind. Plagued by bad luck and running low on supplies, they're relieved to come across a young couple on the trail who is happy to share their surplus provisions. At first appearance, Riley is friendly and outgoing, while Finn is quiet and withdrawn. After a fight in the middle of the night, Riley takes off into the desert with Finn chasing after her. Certain that Riley is in danger, Katie and Aster follow on their trail, determined to find her, or call for help, before Finn can get to her first.
49 Miles Alone is a pulse racing thriller of a survival story. Facing danger from the elements, illness, and injury, in addition to the strangers they come across on the trail, Katie and Aster have to use all their strength and wits to make it through the treacherous conditions on their hike. Their journey is told by alternating between their POVs, with brief interruptions from a mysterious third POV. I liked how each chapter heading showed an update of how far they were into their 49 mile journey. I think Richards did a masterful job in portraying Katie's trauma and Aster's guilt surrounding the pivotal night nearly a year prior to their hike. The build up to the twist was clever, the foreshadowing subtle enough not to give it away early on, though I did start to piece it together shortly before the reveal.
If you enjoy thrillers and survival stories, I think that you would enjoy 49 Miles Alone! However, if mentions of rape and sexual assault are triggers for you, I would exercise caution as they do figure heavily into the overall plot.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for providing me with an eARC in exchange for my honest review!
49 Miles Alone is a pulse racing thriller of a survival story. Facing danger from the elements, illness, and injury, in addition to the strangers they come across on the trail, Katie and Aster have to use all their strength and wits to make it through the treacherous conditions on their hike. Their journey is told by alternating between their POVs, with brief interruptions from a mysterious third POV. I liked how each chapter heading showed an update of how far they were into their 49 mile journey. I think Richards did a masterful job in portraying Katie's trauma and Aster's guilt surrounding the pivotal night nearly a year prior to their hike. The build up to the twist was clever, the foreshadowing subtle enough not to give it away early on, though I did start to piece it together shortly before the reveal.
If you enjoy thrillers and survival stories, I think that you would enjoy 49 Miles Alone! However, if mentions of rape and sexual assault are triggers for you, I would exercise caution as they do figure heavily into the overall plot.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for providing me with an eARC in exchange for my honest review!
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