Thriller

14 Ways To Die // Book Review

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Synopsis
A decade ago, Jess lost her mother to the Magpie Man, an infamous serial killer who is still at large and planning to kill again. Now, She’s going to use her new platform as the star of a YouTube reality series to catch him. That is, if he doesn’t catch her first.
Synopsis from Amazon

My Rating

 

My Thoughts
I had been seeing this book in stores for months, and decided to pick it up. I went into it fairly blind, but the cover and title were very intriguing. It was interesting to see that the plot centers around a serial killer and unsolved murders. The book follows Jess, a teenage girl, determined to find the Magpie Man, who is the serial killer responsible for her mother’s death.

To draw the Magpie Man out of hiding, Jess enters a YouTube reality competition where she documents her search for her mother’s killer. Honestly, I t think that the whole reality competition aspect was unnecessary. You didn’t learn much about the other contestants, and the story could have had the same outcome without the reality show element. The author could have simply made Jess start her own YouTube channel about the murders, instead of adding cameramen and show runners.

It was understandable that Jess wanted to bring her mom’s killer to justice, but she was too reckless about it. She was literally asking for a serial killer to come get her. She didn’t even have a plan as to what she’d do if she found the killer. You should always have a plan. However, she gets points for being bold, since I don’t know if I could be as brave as Jess is in the book.

Yet, I didn’t feel like we got to know Jess, or any of the other characters, much. All we really learn is that Jess spent her whole life wanting to avenge her mother’s death, which I found to be very unhealthy. However, her determination was understandable for the story. You could see that she has a lot of unresolved issues, and hasn’t fully come to terms with the loss of her mother.

Keep in mind that the book is very plot driven, which is the case with a lot of thrillers. Still, I want strong character development in addition to a solid mystery. For me, a successful book is made up of an engaging plot, and a forged connection with the characters. This book was lacking on the character front.

There is a romance that forms between Jess and someone, which progresses gradually. The love interest cared for Jess, and wanted her to stay safe. But they also understood that she had to see her plan out until the end. He didn’t understand her pain, but wanted to be there for her nonetheless.

We lie to sad people because we think it will make them feel better. But sad people see through lies. You can only trick happy people with bullshit.”

There weren’t many suspects, so it was hard to see where the story was going. When the killer was finally revealed, you started to put all the pieces together. The author did a good job of dropping bread crumbs throughout the book without making the serial killer’s identity too obvious.The book depicts that everyone has a story to tell, and some people’s stories might be more tragic than others. Also, a murder is never truly perfect. There is always some evidence left behind. Yet, the police overlooked certain things for years. More and more, a lot of books have been brave enough to call out the police and the justice system.

Overall, I was a fan of the writing style and the short chapters. The book went by fast, but still got the story across. The plot twist at the end was good, but I was hoping for more. I think that fans of ‘A Good Girl’s Guide To Murder’ would thoroughly enjoy this book. Speaking of the “Good Girl’s” trilogy, I do have reviews up for all three of those books, if you want to know my thoughts on them.

In the comments, let me know if you have read anything by this author. I would love to know more about their other books. If you like bookish content, then be sure to follow my blog.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

The Cousins // Book Review

- Bunny 1 Comment

SynopsisMilly, Aubrey, and Jonah Story are cousins, but they barely know each another, and they’ve never even met their grandmother. Rich and reclusive, she disinherited their parents before they were born. So when they each receive a letter inviting them to work at her island resort for the summer, they’re surprised . . . and curious. Their parents are all clear on one point–not going is not an option.
Synopsis from Amazon

My Rating

My Thoughts
I don’t know how Karen M. McManus does it, but her books seem to have a way of pulling me in right from the start. This story was no different, I was immediately intrigued by the story and characters. In this book, we follow three teenage cousins from the Story family: Milly, Aubrey, and Jonah, who barely know each other. They are all very different from one another, but somehow their personalities worked well together. Each of them must drop everything to spend the summer working at their estranged grandmother’s resort. As the three get to know each other, you can see a bond forming between them while they try to uncover family’s secrets.

They were all likable characters, but didn’t stray too much from the author’s typical character personas. They are each facing issues at home, and even though the book was a crazy mystery/thriller, there was definitely some character growth, which was a nice added touch. The Story cousins aren’t clueless, and were immediately suspicious of their grandmother’s sudden invitation. Personally, I enjoy a mystery when the characters aren’t oblivious to things that seem fishy.

As perusal, we have dual perspectives throughout this book, but we don’t just alternate from Story cousin to cousin. There are chapters that take place in the past, which I found very interesting since it helps you piece together the mystery. In the past, you get a glimpse of the cousins’ parents as teenagers, and find out just how different they are from their kids. Let’s just say that money can’t buy you humility. I mean, the word ‘townie’ was used. More than once.

Besides the characters, the plot and mystery was amazing, intense and a roller-coaster ride. I didn’t know what was going to happen next, because there were so many twists, each just as shocking as the last. There were tons of jaw-dropping moments, making it impossible to put the book down. The story is addictive, and I couldn’t wait until everything came together. However, I will say that I figured things out right before the big reveal. Still, I was pretty stunned by the ending.

“Leave the past where it is.”

Of course, there was a romance which I found to be predictable. And truthfully, I wanted it to go another way. Although, I understand that sometimes the most obvious route is the easiest one to take. But make no mistake, the romance is minor, since the book is truly all about the mystery. And, the ending proved that Karen M. McManus is a queen when it comes to YA thrillers.

Overall, I found the story to be incredible, which you have probably already gathered. And, the newfound sibling type of bond amongst the cousins was charming. The Story family were a very dysfunctional bunch, so it was nice to see that not all of them were heartless. If you’re looking for an amazing thriller, with many surprises, then this is a must read! However, I think that all of McManus’ books are must reads. If you want to know my thoughts on her other books view my reviews here.

Leave me a comment letting me know your thoughts on this book. Did you love it as much as me? Did you hate it? Or, maybe you thought it was sub-par? Before you go, give my blog a follow, so that you never miss a post.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Seven Dirty Secrets // Book Review

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SynopsisFrom the New York Times bestselling author of Five Total Strangers and “master of suspense” (BCCB), Natalie D. Richards, comes a pulse-pounding YA thriller about a girl who goes on a mysterious scavenger hunt, only to discover that someone knows her worst secret…and is out for blood. I know seven dirty secrets: One caused the fall. One did nothing. One saw it all. One didn’t care. One used their head. One played the hero. One was left for dead.
Synopsis from Barnes And Noble

My Rating

My Thoughts
Right off the bat, I was unsure of the writing style, and kind of scared it wasn’t going to be for me. However, the first few chapters where intriguing enough for me to keep reading. There are a lot of questions that need to be answered, which makes for an interesting story. In the first chapter we’re introduce to Cleo, the main protagonist of the story, on her eighteen birthday. There isn’t much personality to her character, but you can tell that she has been through a lot. Throughout the book, we follow Cleo as she embarks on this scavenger hunt of sorts – and if she doesn’t finish the hunt, a secret will be revealed.

The scavenger hunt element was cool, but I was longing for a prologue. It was obvious that something happened on a rafting trip a year ago. Something that involved Cleo, and her scum of an ex. But the author made us wait awhile before finding out what occurred. However, there were a few chapters that took place in the past, giving insight into Cleo and her ex-relationship. And it was a very toxic relationship, at that. But, since her ex-boyfriend was such a horrible boyfriend, I really didn’t care about what caused his death.

There weren’t a whole lot of side characters that we got to know, since Cleo’s friend group was pretty small. But, the characters that we did meet didn’t have much screen time, so to speak making it hard to get to know them. The two characters, in-addition to Cleo, that played a prominent role in the story was her brother, Connor, and best friend, Hope. I loved Hope, because she was really Cleo’s ride-or-die.

“Love doesn’t make us do stupid shit, Cleo. Fear does that.”

I had a lot of theories about who was the one behind the scavenger hunt, but kept second guessing myself. As someone that loves thrillers and horror movies, it irks me that I couldn’t figure out who was messing with Cleo earlier. I seriously realized who it was right before the big reveal. Still, I wouldn’t necessarily file this under a mystery, but it isn’t really a thriller either. The idea was good, but the execution wasn’t what I was hoping for. However, the book ended without any lingering questions, which was nice.

Overall, the moral of the story is that tragedy can tear even the closest people apart. And, no matter what your reasons are for lying, the truth will always come out. As someone with siblings, I liked how they posed the question of what you would do for your sibling. Would you cover up a crime for them? Or perhaps kill for them?

I want to note that this book hits on some hard topics, such as drugs and domestic violence. A few of the scenes could possibly be hard to read for some people. I always try to mention any trigger warnings a book might have, but please still do your own research into the book. In the comments, let me know if you would say this is a thriller. And to get notifications for my posts, follow the blog!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

The Night Shift // Book Review

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Synopsis
“From the author of the breakout thriller Every Last Fear, comes Alex Finlay’s electrifying next novel The Night Shift, about a pair of small-town murders fifteen years apart―and the ties that bind them.”

This is an adult mystery thriller book that will keep you on the edge of your seat. This is the definition of a page turner, because of the compelling story, twists and  versatile cast of characters. As the synopsis says, the book focuses on a crime that takes place at an ice cream shop in the present day. The incident resembles a murder from the 90’s that happened at a Blockbuster. Yes, I said Blockbuster Video. If you were a 90s, or even early 2000s, kid than you’re probably getting childhood flashbacks right about now.

The book follows three perspectives – Ella, Sarah, and Chris. Ella is the only survivor of the Blockbuster murders, who was asked to talk with the lone survivor of the current murders. Jesse. The girls do form a bond, because of their shared tragedies. However, Ella is a very messed up character. She doesn’t let people get too close, and tends to sabotage herself . The character of Ella was written so well, and she conveys that one can go on to have a good career, and decent life, after a horrible incident. However, the past will always haunt them and affect their life.

Chris is a public defender, and the younger brother of, Vincent, who was accused of he Blockbuster murder. Although Vincent was never charged for the crime, people still believe that he was involved. Everyone except Chris. The brothers haven’t seen each other in years, ever since Vincent up and disappeared. We don’t get to know much about Vincent, but the way Chris talked about him, you could tell that he wasn’t the murdering type. The boys came from an abusive home, and it made sense that Chris would turn his effort into helping people that needed help. I found him to just be a kid, waiting for his older brother to come back for him.

Sarah Keller is the FBI agent assigned to the case. She is pregnant, which was an interesting touch. She was giving me Olivia Benson vibes. Throughout a lot of the book, she is with Atticus Singh, who is her fresh out of college partner of the case. I liked Atticus and Sarah’s brother/sister type of relationship. However, Atticus quickly became my favorite character, even thought he played a rather small part in the story.

“The world breaks everyone and afterward many are strong at the broken places.”

There were a lot of facts in the story, which is why it was mainly plot driven. It was like watching an episode of ‘Cold Case’ where you are trying to fit all the pieces together in your head. You know the answer is right in front of you, but just can’t figure it out. Even with this being the case, the book doesn’t require a ton of focus or brain power. It was a fairly fast read, and the story didn’t slow down one bit.

There were so many twists that I couldn’t keep up. I was probably shocked for the majority of this book. And, with every new development, my theories changed. I was reeling by the killers reveal. It was insane, jaw dropping, and so well thought out. If you are looking for an author that knows how to write a solid mystery, then Alex Finlay is for you.

The book hit on some heavy topics, like how grief can drive a person to do despicable things. Losing a cherished loved one can make you lose yourself as well. The book will definitely take you on an emotional ride. The ending was not only amazing, but broke my heart in many ways. By the last page, I was in tears.

Overall, I wouldn’t call this a thriller. Rather, an amazing murder/mystery. There were some badass female characters, but also many triggering topics. I would recommend looking at the trigger warnings for the book before picking it up. In the comments, let me know if you have read this book. Please give my blog a follow, because your support does mean the world to me!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

As Good As Dead | Book Review

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Synopsis
“She’s used to online death threats in the wake of her viral true-crime podcast, but she can’t help noticing an anonymous person who keeps asking her: Who will look for you when you’re the one who disappears? Soon the threats escalate and Pip realizes that someone is following her in real life.”

*This review might include information that some might see as a spoiler.*

Before I get started, I would like to mentally prepare you for a rant filled, and quite lengthy, review. (Although most of my reviews do seem to be pretty long). This is the third and final book in the ‘Good Girl’s Guide To Murder’ series – and when I say it was a disappointment, I mean it was a complete and utter fail! I was positively enraged by this book. So much so, that I don’t even want to write about it.

Nevertheless, here we are. The book takes place right after the second installment. So, if you have yet to read the second book, please be aware of spoilers. Pip is struggling with PTSD, which she isn’t actually dealing with at all. She has turned to using drugs, and insists on carrying the weight of the aftermath of ‘Good Girl, Bad Blood’ all by herself. It is clear that Pippa has changed in so many ways. Not only was her drug use shocking, she was a much darker version of herself.

For someone that seems so smart, she was totally blind to her self destructive behavior. And similarly, to to the fact that the only way to move past trauma is to deal with it head on. The rest of the characters stayed practically the same, and Ravi was both supportive and protective of Pip.

What makes this book so different than the previous two, is that the case involves Pippa herself. Before this, we have seen her trying to solve mysteries for others. This time, she is the target. The big question of the book is, “Who will look for you, when it’s you who goes missing”? It is a very interesting question, and, I think we all have our own answer to it.

The key to these books is that you have to remember all the little details. This final book connects all the books together. It is seriously a full circle moment. I loved how everything tied in together. Also, how Andy Bell had a nice redemption arc.

“All these ambiguities, these contradictions, these grey areas that spread and engulfed all sense – how could Pip rectify that? How could she cure herself from the after effects?”

This case follows a serial killer, rather than a solo murder – think of a Criminal Minds sort of case. However, the plot was none too thrilling to me. Also, it was strange to see Ravi being more involved in the case, and being smarter than Pippa at times.

I had many suspicions as to the killer, but kept bouncing around. Still, my first instinct was ultimately correct. And, by the halfway point, the book picked up the pace. It was an intense roller coaster ride from that point forward. However, right as the story got good, I was completely in shock as to what I was actually reading. I didn’t even recognize these characters. It was as if Pippa had no moral compass at all. And, everyone was so quick to jump right on board with her.

It was insane – I wanted to throw the book in the trash. I was livid! Okay, maybe I’m overreacting. But this book was unnecessary, and the characters developed in the worst way possible. I understand not trusting the justice system, but Murder, then framing someone else for that murder? Come on. Let’s face it, Pippa’s actions in this book prove that PTSD is the least of her issues.

However, something that I do love is that Holly Jackson’s book are easy to get into. She has a style of writing that I have become a fan of. And, as I have mentioned multiple time that even though the book got my blood boiling I couldn’t stop reading.

Overall, I wasn’t very satisfied with the the conclusion of the book or the trilogy altogether. My favorite book would have to be the first in the series, with book two being a close second. It really should have been a duology. However, I have noticed that this book has polarized opinions – you either love it, or you hate it. There really isn’t any middle ground. Can you guess which team I’m on?

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

When reading, you can create the Custom Enamel Pins bookmark and let it become your exclusive companion on your journey to uncover the truth.

Book Haul // May 2022

- Bunny 2 Comments

Hi Friends,
I did a little book shopping last month, and always like sharing all the books that I buy with you. Keep in mind that I didn’t pick up all these books at once, but across multiple trips. I have been loving the Barnes and Noble buy one get one 50% off deal. Honestly, book sales are my kryptonite. Plus all the 2022 releases have been so good, that I can’t stop myself from buying them. I have been adding a ton to my Wishlist! Okay, that’s enough rambling, let’s get straight to the haul!

Barnes and Noble


Wicked As You Wish by Rin Chupeco
What if every story you’d ever heard was true? Jack killed the giants. Red slayed the wolf. Rapunzel fled the tower. But the greatest one of all, had yet to be told.

All Our Hidden Gifts by Caroline O’Donoghue
Maeve’s strangely astute tarot readings make her the talk of the school, until a classmate draws a chilling and unfamiliar card—and then disappears.

Lock the Doors by Vincent Ralph
The truth won’t stay hidden behind locked doors. A brand new addictive, psychological thriller from the New York Times bestselling author of 14 WAYS TO DIE—for fans of Karen McManus, Holly Jackson, and Lisa Jewell.

Love from Scratch by Kaitlyn Hill
This summer, Reese Camden is trading sweet tea and Southern hospitality for cold brew and crisp coastal air. She’s landed her dream marketing internship at Friends of Flavor, a wildly popular cooking channel in Seattle. The only problem? Benny Beneventi, the relentlessly charming, backwards-baseball-cap-wearing culinary intern—and her main competition for the fall job.


The Shadow in the Glass by JJA Harwood
One night, among her beloved books of far-off lands, Ella’s wishes are answered. At the stroke of midnight, a fairy godmother makes her an offer that will change her life: seven wishes, hers to make as she pleases. But each wish comes at a price and Ella must decide whether it’s one she’s willing to pay… A smouldering, terrifying new spin on Cinderella – perfect for fans of Laura Purcell and Erin Morgenstern.

It’s Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini
Like many ambitious New York City teenagers, Craig Gilner sees entry into Manhattan’s Executive Pre-Professional High School as the ticket to his future. Determined to succeed at life—which means getting into the right high school to get into the right college to get the right job—Craig studies night and day to ace the entrance exam, and does. That’s when things start to get crazy.

10 Blind Dates by Ashley Elston
Would you let your family play matchmaker to help you get over a broken heart? Ashley Elston’s 10 Blind Dates is the perfect Christmas treat: delicious, warm, funny, escapist YA romance.

The Fountains of Silence by Ruta Sepetys
Master storyteller Ruta Sepetys once again shines light into one of history’s darkest corners in this epic, heart-wrenching novel about identity, unforgettable love and the hidden violence of silence.

Walmart


Omens Bite: Sisters of Salem by Kristin Cast and P. C. Cast
Twin sisters, Mercy and Hunter are witches, direct descendants of the Goode family, the founders of their town. After the murder of their mother at the hands of a foul demon, they have become the protectors of the Gates to different underworlds–ancient portals between their world and realms where mythology rules and the darkest of creatures exist.

Book Lovers by Emily Henry
An insightful, delightful, instant #1 New York Times bestseller from the author of Beach Read and People We Meet on Vacation.

Midnight Sun by Stephenie Meyer
When Edward Cullen and Bella Swan met in Twilight, an iconic love story was born. But until now, fans have heard only Bella’s side of the story. At last, readers can experience Edward’s version in the long-awaited companion novel, Midnight Sun.


The Fear by Natasha Preston
Hot on the heels of the New York Times bestsellers The Twin and The Lake, the undisputed queen of YA thrillers is back. Don’t be afraid. Be terrified.

14 Ways To Die by Vincent Ralph
ONE KILLER. THIRTEEN VICTIMS. A MILLION VIEWS. A page-turning thriller for the social media age, perfect for fans of A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder and One of Us Is Lying.

The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
An addictive and twisty thriller, full of dark family secrets and deadly stakes. Perfect for fans of Karen McManus and Holly Jackson. A BILLION-DOLLAR FORTUNE TO DIE FOR.

BookOutlet

 

Love, Life, and the List by Kasie West
What do you do when you’ve fallen for your best friend? Funny and romantic, this effervescent story about family, friendship, and finding yourself is perfect for fans of Sarah Dessen and Jenny Han.

Fame, Fate, and the First Kiss by Kasie West
Fan favorite author Kasie West delivers an effervescent story about chasing your dreams and following your heart, perfect for fans of Jenny Han and Huntley Fitzpatrick.

The Fill-In Boyfriend by Kasie West
Smartly observed and wonderfully romantic, Kasie West’s talent shines in this tale of one girl’s unexpected quest to find love…and possibly herself.

On the Fence by Kasie West
On the Fence is a sweet and satisfying read about finding yourself and finding love where you least expect it.


The Distance Between Us by Kasie West
Caymen Meyers learned early not to trust the rich. Enter Xander Spence he’s tall, handsome, and wealthy. Despite his charm and the fact that he’s one of the first people who actually gets her, she knows his interest won’t last. But soon she finds out that money is a much bigger part of their relationship than she’d ever realized.

Moment of Truth by Kasie West
Beloved author Kasie West once again delivers a witty, lighthearted romance that will charm her legions of fans and is perfect for readers of Jenny Han and Huntley Fitzpatrick.

American Royals by Katharine McGee
What if America had a royal family? If you can’t get enough of Harry and Meghan or Kate and William, meet American princesses Beatrice and Samantha. Crazy Rich Asians meets The Crown. Perfect for fans of Red, White, and Royal Blue and The Royal We!

Those are all the books that I have splurged on lately. Yes, I know, it isn’t a small haul, but I have a serious book addiction. However, I find that is pretty typical for most book lovers. Still, I would like to go on a small book buying ban. Or at least try to have a bit more self control when it comes to book shopping. Especially since I am focusing hard on getting through my owned TBR this year. And, with all the new releases coming out I am not doing so well with that goal. I have like no self control when it comes to book shopping. In the comments, let me know your latest book purchases. Before you go, don’t forget to hit that follow button.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Horrid // Book Review

- Bunny 5 Comments

Author: Katrina Leno
Published: 2020
Genre: YA/Thriller
Rating:Full, star, bookmark, favorite, favourite, like, rating icon - Download on IconfinderFull, star, bookmark, favorite, favourite, like, rating icon - Download on IconfinderFull, star, bookmark, favorite, favourite, like, rating icon - Download on IconfinderFull, star, bookmark, favorite, favourite, like, rating icon - Download on Iconfinder

Synopsis
From the author of ‘You Must Not Miss’ comes a haunting contemporary horror novel that explores themes of mental illness, rage, and grief, twisted with spine-chilling elements of Stephen King and Agatha Christie.

This book was creepy, interesting, and shocking, all at the same time. The cover makes you think that it’s a horror read, but it is on the tame side. I pictured it being an ‘Are You Afraid Of The Dark’ tale. So, instead of YA, I’d classify it as an older middle grade.

I was captivated write from the beginning. The first chapter was so interesting that I just had to know where the story was going next. All I am saying is – eating books. If that doesn’t intrigue you, then this book probably isn’t for you.

The main character, Jane, has so many layers to her. She was an unreliable narrator, and it made for the most interesting parts of the stories. She is going through a lot, like losing her father, and moving to a new city. All the while, she was discovering hidden secrets about her family.

The book gets progressively better, and the storyline is very fast paced. I loved the writing style, and how the book wasn’t too long. It’s a great pick when you are looking for a quick read to help get you out of a reading slump.

“Three little girls all eating things they weren’t supposed to eat. Three little girls all eating things in order to fill their bodies with something other than the anger, the rage, that would otherwise consume them.”

The mystery aspect was wild and throws you for a loop. At one point, I thought I had everything figured out, but than I end up being wrong. Then by the end of the book I realize I was right all long. The story is a roller coaster ride, and one I was happy to be on. There was a lot of reference to Agatha Christie, which I thought was great. I could see throughout the story how the author might have been inspired by Christie’s work.

This book deals with grief quite a bit. It can also make you regret the things you didn’t do with a loved you’ve lost. If you are sensitive to books featuring the death of a family member, then I would think twice before reading this book. That being said, it isn’t a sad book at all, so keep that in mind as well.

Overall, I am very pleased with this story. It was spooky and engaging. I’m happy that I gave it a read! Let me know your thoughts on the book in the comments below, and please follow my blog to get notifications whenever I post.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Friday Reads #9

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Hi Friends,
As you know, I typically do ‘Friday Reads‘ posts, because I love giving you updates on what I’m reading. I have a lot of books on loan, so I’m hoping to do a lot of reading over the weekend. Let’s get straight into the books that are currently on my radar.


“THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING SERIES WITH OVER ONE MILLION COPIES SOLD * The highly anticipated finale to the A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder series, the instant bestsellers that read like your favorite true crime podcast or show. By the end of this mystery series, you’ll never think of good girls the same way again.”


“A reluctant medium discovers the ties that bind can unleash a dangerous power in this compelling Malaysian-set contemporary fantasy.”


“#Wibbroka is back with another swoony YA–this time tackling long-distance relationships, in a novel based on their own romantic history.”

I’ve been on a mystery thriller kid for about a month, but lately I have been dying to pick up a YA contemporary. But, we will see how my weekend reading goes. In the comments, let me know if you enjoy these type of posts. Feel free to follow my blog, because it really helps my blog to grow.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

You’ll Be The Death Of Me // Book Review

- Bunny 2 Comments

About The Book
It’s Ferris Bueller’s Day Off with murder when three old friends relive an epic ditch day, and it goes horribly—and fatally—wrong. Ivy, Mateo and Cal used to be close – best friends back in middle school. But when the trio spot Brian ‘Boney’ Mahoney ditching class too, they follow him – right into a murder scene. When their day of freedom turns deadly, it’s only a matter of time before the truth comes out.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3LUGDGo

My Rating

I went into this book knowing that I was most likely going to enjoy it. And I wasn’t wrong. Unlike McManus’ other books, it didn’t start off with a bang, or dive right into the main story. Although I do prefer books that start with a bang, I found the build up to the murder/mystery refreshing.

The main three characters were similar to characters from other Karen M. McManus books. So, I wish there was more variety to her characters’ personalities. However, I found them each likable, and I can see how their friendship once worked.

There is a romance plot, which is typical when it comes to YA books, but I found the romance to be pretty weak. Although it was a second chance/friends-to-lovers type of romance, and I know that a lot of readers enjoy that trope.

I did feel that there was something off with the plot. It could be because I found the backstory about their friendship a little mundane. But she did manage to easily merge their past friendship into a new friendship. The author always finds a way to weave everything together, and make the story flow.

“We all make mistakes, right? And almost never see the fallout coming.”

Unlike some thrillers, ‘You’ll Be The Death Of Me’ had a message to it. Sometimes we forget how deadly our emotions can be, and to not let them get the better of us. We always have to pay a price for revenge. And even if you didn’t intend to hurt someone, you can never truly know how things will turn out in the end.

I found the fact that, throughout the book, the characters didn’t ignore hard topics, and had open communication with one another. This was nice, especially since they weren’t friends anymore. But it was the way they easily reconnected that made you see how they could have been friends, once upon a time.

The book showcased the many sides to a person, and how even horrible acts can be forgiven under the right circumstances. And that it is perfectly okay to ask for help. It also did, however, have some moments where I felt as though the characters were acting like hypocrites. However, they were rare instances.

I did happen to guess the killer, but every now and again, I find it fun to solve the mystery first. Still, this book has so much to offer, and there were a lot of shocking moments are the end. Plus the ending cliffhanger that I didn’t see coming.

I hope that Karen M. McManus doesn’t leave us hanging, because I am dying to see how the rest of this story plays out. In the comments, let me know if you have read this book, and if would like a sequel as well. Follow my blog for more book reviews!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Books I Regret Buying #1 // Spring 2022

- Bunny 2 Comments

Hi Friends,
If you watch beauty videos on YouTube or follow beauty blogs than I guarantee you have seen people talk about the products they regret buying. Well, I thought it would be fun to do a bookish twist on this type of post. I am going to be talking about the books that I regret buying.

Final Girls Support Group by Grady Hendrix
Actually, I didn’t buy this book, but I was gifted it for Christmas 2021. I received it from my older brother after adding it to my Christmas wishlist. At the time, I hadn’t read the book, but after reading it I instantly regretted wanting it. I was not a fan of the book at all. It was even on my worst books of 2021 list. Honestly, I don’t get how this book became so popular, but maybe I just wasn’t the reader for it.

You’ve Reached Sam by Dustin Thao
This was another Christmas gift, but I was with my mom when she bought it for me. So, I am counting this as a book that I bought. By now you all should probably know how much of a disappointment this book was for me. I thought the premise sounded amazing but the story fell flat. This book is loved by a lot of readers, so I might be alone in my dislike of it. I kind of wish that I had read it before asking for it.

You’d Be Mine by Erin Hahn
I have a review up on this book, which goes into more detail about why I didn’t like it. However, I thought this would be a cute Nashville (the TV show) type of read. But, the book was filled with way too much drama and heavy plot points. Also, I wasn’t a big fan of the writing style or characters. It was just a little boring in my opinion.

A Stolen Life: A Memoir by Jaycee Lee Dugard
This book is a pretty hard read, but I bought the ebook copy when it was released back in 2011. I used to be really into stories that dealt with kidnapping or just sexual abuse in general. Partly because I was a big fan of ‘Law and Order’, but mainly because I think that sexual abuse is horrific especially if it involves a minor. I used to be very interested in the thought of stopping sex crimes whether that meant being a lawyer or FBI agent (I am a dreamer). Any who, this book was not my cup of tea. I understand this is Jaycee’s real experience but she was to nice in how she talked about her abuser. And, you could tell there was some Stockholm syndrome there that wasn’t touched on. I couldn’t even finish the book, and will never pick it up again.

Looking For Alaska by John Green
Now I could mention ‘The Fault In Our Stars‘ and ‘Paper Towns’ as well, because I do regret buying and reading them. However, I haven’t read this book yet and can’t for the life of me fathom why I thought it was a good idea to buy it. Something about me and John Green books don’t mix. I haven’t liked any book I have read from him, with the exception of ‘Let It Snow’, but his story was my least favorite out of the three. This book is on my ‘These Books Will Self Destruct‘ challenge and honestly I don’t even care enough to give it a chance.

I probably rambled a little about the last two books, so I am going to stop here. If you want to see part two of this post let me know in the comments. Sadly, I am sure there are more books that I regret buying. I keep telling myself to stop buying books I haven’t read, but I don’t listen to my own advice. Before you go, give my little book blog a follow because it really helps me grow.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny