okayyyy what a ride!

pros:
- I definitely had no idea who the killer was. it made total sense at the end (as all good reveals should) but I just totally forgot about him
- pretty realistic characters
- writing was clear, if a little plain
- romance was cute

cons:
- I just wasn't enormously invested in Ellery or Malcolm?? especially Ellery. I felt she just kept throwing things out which were hurtful and not very helpful. I was more interested in Declan tbh.
- it was cool not to have any idea where the story was going but it did make it a bit *too* all over the place? the bit with Katrin felt a bit manufactured, too
- the writing was kind of...boring? clear, but nothing special

I dunno, it was definitely good, but I think I preferred McManus's first book? I did read that like over two years ago though, so I don't remember it too well. but I think I cared more about the characters. solid read, though.

.....
Reread as of 25/08/2024

Thought I was a bit harsh the first time, so bumped it up a half star. I absolutely didn't remember I'd read this at all, only saw I had when I came on here to log it! So all the twists were completely a surprise.

Pros:
- it's a good thriller, it keeps you guessing and all Ellery's theories act as red herrings for the real killer.
- the characters felt interesting and relatively complicated, though not much developed since it is quite a short book.
- I liked the contrast of Ellery and Ezra, their growing relationship with their Nana and their complex relationship with their mum.

Katrin's messed up relationship with her dad is also revealed at the end, since she covered for him even when he'd kidnapped her best friend.

- I also liked the exploration of the small town mentality, with how Declan was treated after Lacey's death, and then

Malcolm after Brooke disappears.

Also enjoyed Declan and Malcolm's difficult relationship.

cons:
- Ellery's crazy theories and general distrust do get a little trying after a bit, sometimes you roll your eyes slightly at how outlandish they are.
- also I didn't really feel her relationship with Malcolm. There's so much going on and yet they're doing awkward kisses, I just didn't really feel any romance.

overall, a solid quick little YA thriller that felt fairly original and very twisty and helped me get out of a reading slump. :)