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3.64 AVERAGE


Im giving it a 3* for now, if its end up being a standalone this is a 2*.

Ivy is the worst, she sucks so much, I hated that in the end there is a convenient "oh i didnt mind as much bc" so Ivy doesnt look at bad, but nope, she sucks ass

what kind of resolution was that? is so dumb, everyone is so dumb an useless, i do have to admit that its more realistic, as in, the teenagers detectives sucks and mess up everything, but i dont read these types of books for that you know? I already know that irl they would suck and be dumb like in this book.


adventurous challenging dark mysterious fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

i’m only slightly underwhelmed? also really not a fan of the ending 

This book was a great one. It was impossible to put down and I enjoyed every moment of it. I have no words to describe this book.
adventurous mysterious fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
emotional medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

3.5⭐️
I don’t think I’ll ever be blown away by a McManus book but I know I can have an enjoyable time. With this one, I really enjoyed the fact that the main events of the book all occur within less than 24 hours. I think it was a fresh and interesting choice from the author and it definitely lent itself to the fast pace of the plot. The plot wasn’t revolutionary, there were some twists, some red herrings but also some reveals that I definitely saw coming. (Slight spoiler incoming) I appreciate that the author included a truly toxic female character. In YA books we rarely see on page that women have the potential to be just as predatory as men and I think that character was a good addition to the story that also helped with touching up on some important themes. Overall, I will continue listening to her books on audio when I’m in the mood for a quick teen mystery in between other genres
adventurous dark mysterious tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

To be be completely honest, I haven't enjoyed much of Karen McManus' releases since One of Us Is Lying. While I think her writing style is easy to read, the plot and execution fall flat, especially with this latest release. I'm unfortunately most disappointed in this book than the others— the others were still interesting in the sense that either the characters were likable enough or the resolution was satisfying, bit unfortunately this book failed to reach either.

Frankly I like mystery so I may continue to read her books, but if you're looking for a good story with an exciting plot, high stakes, and a satisfying resolution a la One of Us Is Lying, this book is not for you.

If you're like me and want something to skim over when you have time to kill, go for it. But I would recommend her other books over this one.

What was that ending?! Is there a book two or am I supposed to live with that bomb drop? I'm here for it if there is because you're definitely on my favorite author list.