STONE COLD THRILLER
Warning Signs by Tracy Sierra, Review
Warning Signs by Tracy Sierra, Published in hardback by Penguin on 12th February 2026, length: 368 pages
If the Winter Olympics have given you an appetite for more mountain-based drama, this could be the book for you. This propulsive and compelling thriller relies on deft plotting, tension and creeping dread, rather than convoluted twists and jump scares. The poetic prose is straight from the pages of a more literary novel and the author cleverly combines her beautifully descriptive and atmospheric writing with the fast-paced plotting of a superior commercial thriller. The perspective of fragile young hero Zach is unusual and sweetly appealing.
The Vibe: The narrative centres on Zach’s grief following his mother’s recent death, a growing suspicion that his father, Bram, is ultimately responsible and dawning realisation that his own life is at risk, on an Aspen ski trip. Fragile, frightened, grief-stricken Zach emerges as a brave, intelligent hero in this horrifying and heart-stopping tale of unimaginable evil greed.
Thoughts and feelings: This is an exhilarating, stone-cold thriller. It contains dazzlingly taut writing and a gripping plot but the most striking element for me is the way in which Zach seeks to overcome his grief and vulnerability to confront the demonic Bram. The story artfully portrays the damage caused by an abusive bullying parent without sentimentality and manages to successfully pull off the challenging narration of a young protagonist while maintaining sophisticated and stylish storytelling.
Who will enjoy this? This will appeal to fans of Sophie Hannah, Chris Whitaker, Alex Michaelides and Gillian Flynn. The snowy and unsettling atmosphere reminds me of Justine Triet’s 2023 film Anatomy of a Fall.
Final thoughts: Packed with all the emotional drama, suspense and fear you could wish for from an addictive thriller. The claustrophobic atmosphere of the snowy Aspen mountains and threat of imminent danger are key to the appeal of this compelling drama. The tragic background of Zach’s mother’s recent death lends emotional depth and gradual revelations add incredible tension.