Under the Surface

Diana Urban sure knows how to write a creepy thrilling novel without even needing to add the supernatural. Though I mean it could have been a nice addition in this one with Ruby and the others being lost in the catacombs under Paris for days being chased by shadowy figures dressed as skeletons. I foresee much therapy for the survivors, and possible being claustrophobic. At least for underground caves and such. This was a very quick read as the actions were nonstop, both from Ruby's point of view as they race to find another way out of the catacombs before the scary skeletons catch up to do who knows what but something definitely not good and Sean's as he frantically tries to find clues to where the girls have gone. There does end up being a body count by the end of the book sadly and those happen pretty suddenly. This is not a deep thinking book, but it is entertaining. Not sure I ever want to visit the catacombs in Paris though, maybe only the tourist bits. Though the cataphile information was pretty interesting.

"Under The Surface" by Diana Urban is a captivating young adult thriller that delves into the complexities of friendship, betrayal, and the consequences of keeping secrets. Set in the small coastal town of Port Grace, the novel follows the intertwined lives of four high school students whose friendship is tested when a dark secret resurfaces from their past.The story is narrated from multiple perspectives, allowing readers to gain insight into the thoughts and emotions of each character. The protagonist, Emily, is a relatable and well-developed character who struggles with guilt and self-doubt as she grapples with the events of the past. Her best friend, Lissa, is charismatic and outgoing, but harbors her own secrets that threaten to tear their friendship apart.One of the novel's strengths is its atmospheric setting. The author vividly portrays the coastal town of Port Grace, with its picturesque beaches and ominous cliffs, creating a sense of foreboding that permeates the story. The town itself almost becomes a character, with its own secrets and mysteries waiting to be uncovered.Urban's writing style is engaging and fast-paced, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The plot twists and turns, keeping readers guessing until the very end. The tension builds steadily throughout the novel, culminating in a gripping climax that will leave readers breathless.What sets "Under The Surface" apart from other young adult thrillers is its exploration of complex moral themes. As the characters grapple with the consequences of their actions, they are forced to confront difficult questions about loyalty, forgiveness, and the nature of true friendship. Urban handles these themes with sensitivity and nuance, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions without resorting to heavy-handed moralizing.Another aspect of the novel that stands out is its portrayal of mental health issues. Emily struggles with anxiety and depression throughout the story, and Urban does an excellent job of depicting the impact these conditions have on her life. By portraying mental illness in a realistic and empathetic manner, the author helps to reduce the stigma surrounding these issues and foster greater understanding and empathy among readers.In addition to its compelling characters and thought-provoking themes, "Under The Surface" also features a tightly plotted mystery that will keep readers guessing until the very end. The novel is filled with twists and turns, red herrings and false leads, all of which add to the suspense and intrigue. Urban does an excellent job of foreshadowing and planting clues throughout the story, so that when the truth is finally revealed, it feels both surprising and inevitable.Overall, "Under The Surface" is a riveting young adult thriller that will appeal to fans of the genre and newcomers alike. With its engaging characters, atmospheric setting, and thought-provoking themes, it is sure to keep readers hooked from beginning to end. Diana Urban has crafted a compelling story that will linger in the minds of readers long after they have turned the final page.