49 miles alone by Natalie D. Richards

Wow! What a gripping thriller. Katie and her cousin Aster are facing a 49-mile-long hike in the Utah desert, hoping to restore the strong friendship that they had before Katie survived a terrible night at a party the year before. They set off alone to cross the desert, facing injuries, scorpions and a freak storm that leaves flash floods threatening their paths. When they meet Riley and Finn who offer them extra supplies, Katie’s antenna for danger flares and she believes Finn is trouble. Her instincts appear to be correct when they witness Riley fleeing into the night with Finn in pursuit. When morning comes, the camp is deserted and Katie is certain that Riley is in danger. Will they be able to save her or will the desert conditions prove too difficult ?

49 Miles Alone is told in alternative chapters in the voices of Aster and Katie, with a mysterious third voice adding suspense to the story. It is a survival story and could easily be read quickly for the thrill of following the pair hiking alone in the desert, facing rattlesnakes, scorpions, death defying climbs and loss of supplies, while knowing that there is a dangerous man on the trail. However the story is not just about surviving in the deadly desert, but of Katie’s attempts to maintain her mental sanity after trauma, and Aster’s finding a way to renew a friendship when it is difficult to know what to say to a survivor.

Winner of the Edgar Award 2025, 49 Miles Alone is a gripping thriller that looks at some serious issues. Richards maintains a high level of suspense as the reader wonders whether Katie and Aster will be able to reach safety and rescue the missing girl and whether they will be able to regain their trusting relationship.  Readers may also enjoy We won't all survive by Kate Alice Marshall, The surface trials by H.M. Waugh and Wandering wild by Lynette Noni.

Themes: Hiking, Utah, Deserts, Rape, Thriller.

Pat Pledger