“Last Days” by Adam Nevill: Review of a Found-Footage Style Horror Novel

Adam Nevill, the author of the book "The Ritual" which was adapted into a Netflix movie, brings us another horror novel with a unique twist. "Last Days" follows the story of two documentary filmmakers, Kyle and Dan, as they investigate the origins and circumstances surrounding a 70's cult named "The Church of the Last Days."

For fans of found-footage style horror movies, this book will feel right at home. The narrative has a Blair Witch or Paranormal Activity style of storytelling, as Kyle and Dan unravel the creepy, unexplainable, and paranormal events that were associated with the cult. The two filmmakers are hired by an older man named Max to create a gritty, honest documentary about the cult, which was famous for a brutal massacre in the 70's.

The relationship between Kyle and Dan is one of the highlights of the book. They are the stereotypical documentary film enthusiasts who want to tell the stories that are overlooked, all while trying to live up to their own artistic standards. The dynamic between the two makes them feel like long-time friends, and their interactions with the people they interview and the horrors they encounter are what keeps the reader engaged.

The horror and mystery in the book are weaved together exceptionally well. As Kyle and Dan travel to various locations where the cult had operated, they encounter paranormal horrors while the history and real-life brutality of the cult's rituals are revealed. The first half of the book is wonderfully scary, and the horror slowly creeps into the world, making the reader feel trapped right along with the characters.

Although the book is a bit long, the locations, characters, mystery, and horror are enough to keep the reader's interest. The film-like framing of the narrative keeps things feeling cinematic and flowing. However, the last quarter of the story loses some of its horror momentum and becomes more of a gun-slinging monster hunt.

"Last Days" is a must-read for fans of found-footage style horror movies, or for those who want to read a scary cult mystery story. Although the ending turns into more of a suspense/action story, it is still well-written and exciting. If you liked the movie "The Ritual," then this book is a must-read.