Escape—A Dark and Riveting Dystopian Fantasy

L.S. O’Dea’s Escape is a dark fantasy adventure set in a dystopian world where survival is a constant struggle. Though the beginning was a bit slow and introduced many characters at once, the pace soon picked up, and everything started to fall into place, making this an exciting and rewarding read.

What I Loved

The storyline is captivating, full of unexpected twists and well-developed characters. The book takes us into a world forever changed by The Great Death, a devastating plague that wiped out all animals over twenty pounds and altered humanity itself. Society is now divided into strict classes, with the almighty's (who are the most human-like) at the top, and Producers, the lowest class, at the bottom. This society's roles are divided among Guards, Trackers, Handlers, and House Servants. While not overly complex, understanding their hierarchy takes time. In this grim society, making the Harvest List can mean life or death.

The world-building is immersive, revealed through the naive eyes of teenage Trinity. Her perspective makes for a perfect lens to experience the horrors and mysteries of this world. Trinity herself is a fascinating protagonist. A mixed-breed, she has spent her life hiding her differences—claws, fangs, and the ability to see in the dark. Knowing she won’t make the Harvest List, she sets out to uncover the truth about what happens to those who don’t, leading to a thrilling, danger-filled journey.

The book’s pacing allows readers to slowly understand this layered system without feeling overwhelmed.

The relationship dynamics were intriguing. Trinity isn’t searching for romance, she just wants companionship and acceptance. Her journey introduces her to unlikely allies, and the tension of never knowing if those alliances will hold keeps the stakes high. The relationship between Mirra and Gaar stood out in particular. Their companionship felt natural, balanced, and refreshingly equal, despite their wild nature.

Themes & Tropes

🏹 Survival & Perseverance: Trinity must fight against the odds in a brutal dystopian world.

🐺 The Underdog Rising: A low-class outcast with hidden potential takes on a rigid society.

🤝 Found Family: Unexpected allies become vital in the fight for survival.

🧬 Genetic Experimentation & Mutation: Hybrid classes hint at forced evolution and manipulation.

🏛 Social Inequality & Oppression: A strict caste system governs life and death decisions.

🔎 Secrets & Conspiracies: The mystery behind the Harvest List drives the plot.

🌑 Dystopian Horror: A terrifying world filled with extinction, cruelty, and dangerous beings.

🚷 Escape & Pursuit: A race against time to evade a terrible fate.

🐉 Wild & Dangerous Creatures: Predators long thought extinct re-emerge.

🏴‍☠️ Betrayal: Friend turns foe.

🧩 Mystery & Discovery: Trinity uncovers hidden truths about her world and herself.

Writing & Pacing

Once the initial world-building is established, the book takes off at a fast pace. O’Dea’s writing is immersive and atmospheric, making it easy to visualize the harsh and dangerous world Trinity inhabits. The dialogue flows naturally, and the suspenseful plot keeps you engaged.

If I could sum it up with a quote, it's this: 

“Everything is food for something.”

Final Thoughts

L.S. O’Dea has crafted a cruel yet fascinating world, perfect for those who enjoy dark fantasy with an edge of gruesomeness. Escape is an intense journey filled with danger, secrets, and survival. If you’re looking for a fantasy novel with dystopian elements, unique class structures, and interesting character dynamics, this book is well worth the read.