Dead in the Water

⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 Star Review

This was such a unique and unsettling concept— the idea of your life flashing before your eyes… and revealing something you don’t remember living. That alone instantly hooked me. The mystery surrounding the dead boy and Damon’s missing memory created an eerie, obsessive atmosphere that kept me curious and slightly on edge the entire time.

The psychological aspect was definitely the strongest part. Watching Damon spiral deeper into his need for answers felt disturbing in a very human way, and the repeated “dice with death” element added a dark intensity that made his desperation believable. There were moments that genuinely gave me chills.

However, the pacing felt uneven at times, and parts of the story didn’t hit with the emotional weight I was hoping for. I found myself wanting a bit more depth—especially in Damon’s character and the overall payoff of the mystery. Some reveals were intriguing, but didn’t land as powerfully as they could have.

Overall, this was an eerie, thought-provoking read with a fantastic premise and plenty of unsettling moments. While it didn’t fully deliver on its potential for me, it was still an engaging psychological ride that fans of dark, mind-bending thrillers will likely enjoy.

Yet another intense read from John Marrs. Damon survives near death experience and sees his life flash before his eyes. Everything makes sense except for a large hole that he can’t seem to figure out what is missing. He will take a journey of discovery to understand his past and what secrets hide there. Sometimes the past is better left unknown.

I read this book right after The Good Samaritan and I’m so glad I did. These books are linked and it helps understand a few things if you read them in order.

Highly recommended!