One is None, by Mark Nihlean, grabs readers from the start, weaving a dark tale of survival, mystery, and tragedy that lingers long after you’ve turned the last page. It begins with Doug McCrae and his son Ben, moving through a post-apocalyptic landscape that reveals Doug as a cold and often cruel figure, a character as compelling as he is unsettling. This fractured family, including Ben’s sister Amy, his stepmother Dolores, and a newborn sibling, lives out a bleak existence in a bunker. By the second chapter, I was hooked, already invested in this family’s tragic backstory, and curious to uncover the secrets behind it.

The early pages introduce an eerie layer: Dolores begins to believe her infant son is speaking to her through visions, an impression only strengthened by a stranger’s similar story about his own child. The mystery here is just enough to keep the pages turning, especially as the tension builds. I found myself both repelled and fascinated by Doug’s character; he’s the embodiment of toxic masculinity, a figure of cruelty who somehow manages to keep me reading. Dolores’s wisdom and resolve make her the perfect counterpoint, though it’s hard to see her bound to someone like Doug, which only adds to the novel’s emotional charge.

As the story unfolds, the family encounters other survivor communities led by twisted leaders, casting an even darker shadow over the plot. This novel veers into some heavy psychological territory, and Nihlean’s writing meets the challenge, his sharp prose bringing every tense moment to life. Though I’ve always enjoyed thrillers and survival tales, this one pushed my limits. There is a warning about sensitive content up front, and it’s justified—the disturbing treatment of children is intense and difficult to read. While these moments deepened the stakes, I feel they also made the story harder to bear. That said, Nihlean’s writing is exceptional. His command of language and pacing pulled me in, making this an unforgettable, if emotionally challenging, read.

One is None is a haunting and skillfully crafted novel that leaves a lasting impact. Mark Nihlean’s storytelling dives deep into the human psyche, exploring the resilience, fears, and darkness that emerge in desperate times. For those who appreciate well-executed thrillers that challenge their emotions and perceptions, this book is a compelling, if harrowing, choice.

Pages: 320 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0DNKJCY6N