How Bad Things Can Get

By: Darcy Coates

Narrated by: Hillary Huber

It was supposed to be the party of the century: miles of idyllic white sand beaches, lush jungle foliage...and a dark legend nobody dreamed might be all too true.

When an online influencer and several hundred of his most loyal fans land on Prosperity Island, the plan is simple: five days of elaborate games, drinking, and suntanned fun.

A week in paradise should have been a welcome respite. The only survivor of an infamous cult, Ruth wants nothing more than to keep her head down and not draw attention. She's spent decades outrunning her blood-soaked childhood, and her identity is a closely held secret.

But then the true history of the island is revealed…along with its sinister connection to Ruth's past. As guests go missing and games turn deadly, Ruth and the rest of the attendees are forced to question whether they've really been invited to paradise...or whether something much darkerand far bloodieris waiting for them just beyond the bonfire's light.

©2025 Black Owl Books (P)2025 Black Owl Books

The audio performer ruined the story sadly

The performance felt very very robotic, like it was being read by ai. So much so that it was hard to listen to this audiobook. And the different voices they did made the characters sound overly obnoxious. I wish it was better voiced:(

Couldn’t put down

Great change of pace for the author. Loved the characters and surprises that kept me guessing.

another hit from Darcy

This is my 5th or 6th Darcy Coates book. first one I've listened to and I loved it. twists and turns not knowing who will live or die. the narrator was really good there were a few times I thought it was a double narrator.. well done!! love love love

Narrator

This narrator RUINED this book. I've still got 5 hours left and I'm so close to demanding my credit back. This narrator makes the whole story obsurd and sound absolutely ridiculous

Another Banger by Coates!

I was captivated from the first word till the very last. There’s some truly haunting scenes that will stick with me. I love her writing style, I feel like there’s no time wasted and her characters feel like real people. The narrator is a professional, her voice is smooth and enchanting and there’s enough definition between character voices to know who’s who. If you’ve read some of her other books and liked them you’ll love this one too!