The Ruins by Scott Smith

Author: Scott Smith
Publisher: Vintage
Genre: Horror, Thriller
Year of Publication: 2008
Date of Publication: February 26, 2008
Pages: 384
ISBN-10: 0307390276
ISBN-13: 978-0307390271

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Summary

The Ruins follows a group of friends on vacation in Mexico who venture into the jungle, only to discover a deadly, sinister force. 

Stranded and isolated, they must face their darkest fears to survive.

Main Plot & Characters

The plot centers on a group of tourists who stumble upon an ancient ruin overrun by a malevolent entity.

As they realize the true nature of the threat, their friendship is tested by fear and desperation.

Key Themes of The Ruins

• Fear of Nature: The novel highlights humanity’s vulnerability to nature’s hidden dangers.
• Isolation and Paranoia: The characters’ isolation intensifies their descent into paranoia and fear.
• Survival and Desperation: It examines how far people will go to survive in extreme conditions.
• Human Frailty: The story underscores human frailty, both physically and psychologically, when faced with the unknown.

Writing Style

Smith’s writing style immerses readers in the characters’ plight, building tension with each page.

Impact of The Ruins

The Ruins has become a modern horror classic, celebrated for its chilling portrayal of survival horror.

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