Looking for a gripping thriller to keep you on the edge of your seat? Look no further than Holly Seddon’s Try Not to Breathe and Lars Emmerich’s “The Wrong”. Both novels have become popular among fans of thrillers, but how do they compare to each other? In this article, we will take a closer look at both novels, including their plots, writing styles, character analysis, and themes. By the end of this article, you’ll have a good idea which thriller novel is worth reading: Try Not to Breathe or “The Wrong”.
An Overview of Holly Seddon’s Try Not to Breathe
First published in 2016, Try Not to Breathe tells the story of Alex Dale, a former journalist who is struggling with alcohol addiction. While researching for an article, Alex becomes obsessed with solving a decades-old mystery – the brutal assault and subsequent coma of Amy Stevenson, a teenage girl. But as Alex gets closer to the truth, she finds herself in danger.
Throughout the novel, Seddon explores the themes of addiction, trauma, and the power of the human mind to repress memories. Alex’s struggle with alcoholism is a central part of the story, and Seddon portrays the devastating effects of addiction on both the individual and their loved ones. Additionally, the novel delves into the long-term effects of trauma, as Amy’s family and friends continue to grapple with the aftermath of her assault years later. Seddon also examines the ways in which the mind can protect itself from trauma, and the potential consequences of uncovering repressed memories.
An Overview of Lars Emmerich’s “The Wrong”
“The Wrong” was published in 2018 and follows the story of Jack Stratton, a private investigator who is hired to investigate the disappearance of a young woman. As Jack’s investigation progresses, he finds himself tangled up in a web of lies and deceit that puts his own life in danger.
The novel is set in the fictional town of Ridge Falls, located in upstate New York. Emmerich’s vivid descriptions of the town and its inhabitants bring the story to life, making the reader feel as though they are right there alongside Jack as he navigates the twists and turns of the case. The book has been praised for its fast-paced plot and well-developed characters, making it a must-read for fans of the mystery and thriller genres.
The Plot of Try Not to Breathe
Try Not to Breathe is a complex thriller that weaves together two storylines – Alex’s struggle with alcoholism and her investigation into Amy Stevenson’s assault. The novel switches between the perspectives of various characters, including Alex, Amy, and a suspect in the case, to keep readers guessing until the very end. As Alex puts the pieces of the puzzle together, she realizes that the truth may have been right in front of her all along.
In addition to the intricate plot, Try Not to Breathe also explores the themes of trauma and recovery. Amy’s assault has left her in a vegetative state, and her family is struggling to cope with the aftermath. Meanwhile, Alex’s battle with alcoholism has caused her to lose her job and her marriage. Through their journeys, the novel shows the importance of seeking help and support in times of crisis, and the power of human resilience.
The Plot of “The Wrong”
In “The Wrong”, Jack Stratton is hired to find a missing woman named Rachel. But as he digs deeper, he realizes that he may be in over his head. With the help of his team, Jack uncovers a conspiracy that involves drugs, sex trafficking, and corruption. As Jack continues his investigation, he puts himself and his loved ones in danger.
As the story progresses, Jack discovers that Rachel’s disappearance is linked to a powerful and influential group of people who will stop at nothing to keep their secrets hidden. With the odds stacked against him, Jack must use all of his skills and resources to bring the truth to light and save Rachel.
Along the way, Jack also faces personal challenges as he struggles to balance his work with his relationships. His girlfriend, Alice, becomes increasingly worried about his safety and the toll that the investigation is taking on him. Jack must navigate these challenges while staying focused on his mission to uncover the truth.
The Writing Style in Try Not to Breathe
Try Not to Breathe is a well-written thriller that keeps readers engaged. The narrative is fast-paced and switches between various perspectives, which keeps readers guessing. Seddon’s writing is descriptive and immersive, which makes the characters and settings come alive on the page.
In addition to the engaging narrative and descriptive writing, Seddon also incorporates themes of addiction and recovery into the story. The main character, Alex, is a recovering alcoholic who struggles with her past mistakes and the consequences of her addiction. Seddon handles this topic with sensitivity and realism, shedding light on the challenges and complexities of addiction and recovery. This adds another layer of depth to the story and makes it more than just a typical thriller.
The Writing Style in “The Wrong”
“The Wrong” is written in a straightforward style that is easy to follow. The novel is fast-paced and filled with action, which makes it an entertaining read. Emmerich’s writing is focused on moving the plot forward, but he also manages to create well-rounded characters that readers can sympathize with.
In addition to the fast-paced plot and well-rounded characters, Emmerich’s writing in “The Wrong” also includes vivid descriptions of the settings and environments. From the bustling streets of New York City to the desolate wilderness of the Rocky Mountains, Emmerich’s attention to detail immerses the reader in the story’s world. The use of sensory language allows readers to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of each location, adding an extra layer of depth to the novel.
Character Analysis: Try Not to Breathe
Try Not to Breathe is a character-driven thriller that focuses on the struggles of Alex Dale. Alex is a complex character who is haunted by her past and is trying to get her life back on track. The novel also features Amy Stevenson, who is portrayed as a sympathetic victim, and Jacob, a suspect in the case who is struggling with his own demons.
Character Analysis: “The Wrong”
In “The Wrong”, Jack Stratton is the main character. Jack is a flawed hero who is determined to solve the case, even if it means putting himself in danger. The novel also features several secondary characters, including Jack’s fiancée, his adoptive family, and his allies in the police department.
Themes Explored in Try Not to Breathe and “The Wrong”
Both novels explore similar themes, including addiction, trauma, and the corrupt nature of those in power. Try Not to Breathe also examines the idea of redemption and the importance of forgiveness, while “The Wrong” delves deeper into the theme of family and loyalty.
Similarities between Try Not to Breathe and “The Wrong”
Both novels are fast-paced thrillers that feature complex characters and plotlines that keep readers guessing until the very end. They also both explore similar themes and feature flawed heroes who are determined to do the right thing, even if it means putting themselves in danger.
Differences between Try Not to Breathe and “The Wrong”
Despite their similarities, there are also key differences between the two novels. Try Not to Breathe is a character-driven thriller that focuses on the struggles of one protagonist, while “The Wrong” is more plot-driven and features a larger cast of characters. Additionally, Try Not to Breathe is more focused on redemption and forgiveness, while “The Wrong” is more focused on family and loyalty.
Which Thriller Novel is Worth Reading: A Comparison
Both Try Not to Breathe and “The Wrong” are excellent examples of the thriller genre and are worth reading for anyone looking for a good mystery. However, if you prefer character-driven novels that delve into deeper themes, Try Not to Breathe may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer fast-paced action and plot-driven stories, “The Wrong” may be more up your alley.
Conclusion: Try Not to Breathe vs “The Wrong”
In the end, the decision on which thriller novel to read ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both Try Not to Breathe and “The Wrong” are entertaining reads that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you’re looking for a character-driven story or a fast-paced action thriller, both of these novels are worth checking out.