Fast-paced, chilling, and suspenseful, Those Who Wish Me Dead is a fascinating novel written by American author, Michael Koryta, in 2014. Set against an unforgiving backdrop of the Montana wilderness, this novel blends the threats posed by one’s inner demons with unrelenting natural landscapes to remind us all of the innate, complex connection between man and nature. 

Although an excellent piece of fiction in its own right, this book rose to fame after it was adapted into a film starring none other than Angelina Jolie in 2021. 

After teenager, Jace Wilson, witnesses a murder, he is entrusted to a couple who run a wilderness survival programme for troubled teens. Hunted by the murderers, Jace and his newfound guardian escape into the wilderness to try and seek safety — but nature has other plans. Amid the raging of a forest fire, and during the approach of a fierce electrical storm, Jace meets his saviour, Hannah. But can she keep him safe forever?

Koryta’s writing is equal parts sharp and soft to the touch. With prose that reads like gentle brushstrokes and with a razor-sharp edge all at once, this novel paints a picture of contrasts between the rugged mountainous terrain and the vibrant, human connections that thrive in it. 

Building tension with every page, Koryta’s characters navigate increasingly treacherous landscapes and face seemingly impossible odds — all while battling intense emotional challenges within themselves.

Forcing readers to confront challenging themes such as resilience, carnal struggle, and fear, you’d be greatly mistaken if you thought this book made for easy reading. That being said, while the subject matter is gruelling, the lessons learnt from being in such close proximity to a tale like Jace’s are undoubtedly worth it.

Although Koryta’s protagonist is a 14-year-old boy, the themes of this novel are universal. This tightly woven narrative actively explores the human capacity for resilience and redemption, while hammering home the transformative power of friendship and courage in the face of adversity. 

Best described as an emotionally resonant thriller, if you’re looking for an addictive read that will reaffirm the importance of empathy, compassion, and selflessness, this is the book for you.

Who is Michael Koryta?

Michael Koryta is an established American author, specialising in contemporary crime novels and supernatural fiction. Born on the 20th of September, 1982, Koryta began writing at a very young age. When he was just 8 years old, he wrote to his favourite authors, and later, at age 16, decided to become one himself. 

As an adult, alongside writing, Koryta graduated from Indiana University with a degree in criminal justice, then going on to become a private investigator and newspaper reporter. Not long after this, Koryta was also honoured with the Outstanding Young Alumni Award from his former university for his work in 2008.

Other books by Michael Koryta

Koryta has written a fair few thrillers, including the critically acclaimed novel, Envy the Night, which was selected as a Reader’s Digest Condensed Book. 

Koryta has also written 10 other novels between 2008 and 2023, and shows no sign of slowing down. From the bristling The Ridge (2011), a thriller set in a big-cat sanctuary, to Never Far Away (2021), a tale of hit me and embroiled family members, Koryta’s repertoire is extensive and has something for everyone. 

On top of this, both the iconic Lincoln Perry Series (2004-8) and The Markus Novak (2015-6) series were authored by Koryta.

Need reading inspiration?

If you’re looking for your next read, you can find all the inspiration you need on Victoria Freudenheim’s Latest Reviews and Top Rated pages. Or, for more bookish advice, be sure to check out our blog.