The Way Up is Death by Dan Hanks

When a mysterious tower appears in the skies over England, thirteen strangers are pulled from their lives to stand before it as a countdown begins. Above the doorway is one word: ASCEND.

As a grieving teacher, a reclusive artist, and a narcissistic celebrity children’s author lead the others in trying to understand why they’ve been chosen and what the tower is, it soon becomes clear the only way out of this for everyone… is up.

And so begins a race to the top, through sinking ships, haunted houses and other waking nightmares, as the group fights to hold onto its humanity, while the twisted horror of why they’re here grows ever more apparent – and death stalks their every move.

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Dan Hanks’ The Way Up Is Death delivers a gripping, unsettling adventure with unexpected emotional depth, all wrapped in a story tied to Norse mythology. The novel begins with a chilling premise: a mysterious tower appears in the skies over England, and thirteen strangers are summoned to ascend it. Above its door, a single word marks their fate: ASCEND.

Among the group are a grieving teacher, a reclusive artist, and a self-absorbed children’s author, whose clashing personalities drive much of the tension and drama. As they navigate the tower’s surreal and nightmarish levels - ranging from sinking ships to haunted houses - they’re forced to grapple not just with external threats but also with their own humanity. The stakes are high, as every misstep could cost them their lives, and the question of why they’ve been chosen looms ominously overhead.

The story masterfully weaves elements of psychological suspense, horror, and mythology, creating a unique atmosphere that grips you from the start. The tie to Norse mythology, revealed as the story unfolds, is both clever and unexpected, adding a layer of depth that enriches the narrative. While the plot maintains a fast pace, it also provides space for introspection, allowing readers to connect with the characters’ fears, flaws, and moments of courage.

One standout feature is the emotional resonance embedded in the story. Hanks doesn’t shy away from exploring grief, guilt, and redemption, and a small, throwaway detail near the end of the book lingers with a surprising sadness. It’s these quieter moments that balance the intensity of the plot and make the story truly memorable.

For fans of tense, character-driven speculative fiction with a mythological twist, The Way Up Is Death is a must-read.

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For recommendations, the Norse mythology connection and the surreal trials suggest The Library of the Unwritten by A.J. Hackwith, which also explores themes of redemption and the unexpected places that journeys can take us. On the screen, The Platform offers a similar feeling of ascending tension with its own thought-provoking twist on morality and survival.

The Way Up is Death publishes on the 14th of January, 2025. I received a free copy and am giving an honest review.