Book Review: One of Us Is Next by Karen M. McManus
Holy sht, people! I can’t believe how quickly I fell back into the suspenseful, tangled web of Bayview High. It’s been a while since I read One of Us Is Lying, but the moment I picked up the sequel, One of Us Is Next*, I was reminded of Karen M. McManus’s extraordinary talent for gripping storytelling. If you’re a fan of mysteries that keep you guessing, then trust me—you’re going to want to dive into this one.
So, what’s new in Bayview? It’s been a year and a half since Simon’s dramatic death shook the school, and the original Bayview Four are trying to get on with their lives. Cooper is openly gay and happily in love, while Bronwyn and Nick are a couple—mostly. And then there’s Addie, who, honestly, I lost track of. But! New faces emerge: Maeve, Phoebe, and Knox step into the spotlight as a new game begins, one rooted in truth or dare. It sounds harmless enough, but as we know from the lush, dark past of Bayview, nothing ever is.
I absolutely loved how McManus skillfully crafted her characters—each one felt authentically multi-dimensional. Maeve and Knox are relatable, with plenty of depth, and their quest to uncover the identity of the dangerous copycat is riveting. I found myself on the edge of my seat, feeling every ounce of the tension as secrets bubbled to the surface. The thrill of the dares spiraling out of control was exhilarating; it kept me flipping pages late into the night!
Now, let’s talk about that mystery. It’s refreshing to see a plot that incorporates classic whodunnit elements with clever twists. I’m often frustrated by thrillers that forgo actual clues, but McManus served up just the right blend of intrigue and suspense. Those moments when I gasped out loud were priceless—especially the jaw-dropping plot twist that sealed my love for this book. I mean, can we just appreciate how magical it is when a plot twist leaves you reeling? It’s pure literary bliss.
What resonated with me were the themes of self-acceptance and the struggle to move beyond trauma—something that many young adults face. McManus doesn’t shy away from tough topics; instead, she handles them with sensitivity and grace. This adds layers to the story that elevate it beyond mere entertainment.
In terms of writing style, McManus manages to keep a brisk pace, perfectly balancing moments of tension with quieter, reflective ones. Her dialogue feels authentic, making it easy to slip into the characters’ minds and emotions. That’s a hallmark of her storytelling ability—she knows how to engage her readers deeply and meaningfully.
If you’re on the hunt for a gripping YA mystery that’s equal parts thrilling and emotionally resonant, look no further. One of Us Is Next is not just a sequel; it’s a glorious continuation that builds on its predecessor while carving out its own identity. Whether you’re a fan of the original or just love a good mystery, this book deserves your attention.
Bottom line: 5 stars—this one’s firmly secured its spot as a favorite for the year. Grab a cozy blanket, maybe some popcorn, and prepare for a rollercoaster ride through Bayview. Trust me; you won’t want to miss this adventure!
Discover more about One of Us Is Next (One of Us Is Lying, #2) on GoodReads >>