One of Us Is Back by Karen M. McManus

*** Review ***

Karen M. McManus returns with the highly anticipated third installment of the One of Us Is Lying series in One of Us Is Back. As a devoted fan of the previous books, I was thrilled to dive back into the intriguing world of Bayview High and its cast of complex characters. McManus once again proves her mastery of the young adult thriller genre, delivering a gripping and suspenseful tale that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

One of Us Is Back continues the story almost two years after the death of Simon, the event that set the events of the first book in motion. The Bayview Crew is back home for the summer, attempting to move on from the traumatic events that have haunted them. However, life in Bayview is never simple, and the appearance of a mysterious billboard heralds the beginning of a dangerous game. As a member of the Bayview Crew goes missing, it becomes clear that the stakes are higher than ever, and the consequences could be deadly.

The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of Addy, Phoebe, and Nate, providing readers with multiple points of view that enrich the storytelling. Initially, I found myself getting confused with all the characters from the murder club, as both the players from the first and second books take center stage. However, the author skillfully re-introduces and re-familiarizes the readers with each character, allowing for a seamless transition into their lives. The character development is impressive, and I loved how they bond over their common trauma, forming a tight-knit group that has each other’s backs.

The dynamics between the characters are a highlight of the book. The adorable and endearing relationship between Nate and Bronwyn, which began in the first book, continues to blossom and bring warmth to the story. Additionally, the newfound friendship between Addy and Nate adds another layer of depth to their interactions. However, the standout element for me was the inclusion of Simon’s flashbacks. Witnessing his twisted villainy and observing how he sets events in motion is both chilling and captivating, showcasing McManus’s ability to create compelling and morally complex characters.

While the mystery/action part of the novel takes a bit longer to kick off, the palpable tension of reading a thriller is ever-present. McManus expertly builds suspense, leaving readers eager to uncover the truth behind the dangerous game and the secrets lurking within Bayview. However, it’s worth noting that the story does become overwhelming with the task of backfilling old plotlines and managing a large cast of characters. This occasionally slows down the pacing, but overall, the conclusion is well thought out and provides a satisfying end to the series.

The plot timing in One of Us Is Back is skillfully executed. While I didn’t experience any shocking revelations or unexpected twists, the strategic placement of plot points kept me fully engaged. McManus strategically introduces intriguing possibilities throughout the book, leaving readers with lingering questions and a desire to unravel the mystery until the very last page. The twists and hairpin turns took even this McManus super-reader by surprise, particularly the big twist that I didn’t see coming.

It’s important to note that One of Us Is Back addresses sensitive content and is intended for young adult audiences. To fully appreciate the character connections and the underlying anxiety present in the story, it’s highly recommended to read the first two books in the series. The buildup in this novel is excellent, with McManus expertly weaving together the threads of the previous books, creating a cohesive and immersive narrative.

In conclusion, One of Us Is Back is a fun and easy-to-read thriller that seamlessly continues the series. While the big twist may be predictable for some readers, the enjoyment lies in revisiting the beloved characters and the intricate world that McManus has created. The exploration of key characters’ backgrounds adds depth to the overall narrative, and the author’s ability to maintain suspense and tension is commendable. Fans of the series will not be disappointed by this thrilling and addictive read. One of Us Is Back is a worthy addition to the One of Us Is Lying series, and Karen M. McManus proves once again why she is a master of the young adult thriller genre.