Review of The Executioners Three by Susan Dennard
When I first laid eyes on The Executioners Three, I felt an irresistible pull—perhaps it was the promise of a thrilling blend of humor, romance, and an unshakeable mystery set against a backdrop that drew upon historical intrigue. As a fervent admirer of Susan Dennard’s work, I was more than eager to step into this YA supernatural mystery, even breaking my "no YA" rule to dive headfirst into Freddie Gellar’s world.
From the outset, Freddie is hard not to love. A spirited senior at Berm High, she’s known for her curious nature and her aspiration to follow in her father’s footsteps in law enforcement. When she inadvertently gets the rival Allard Fortin Prep seniors arrested—a mix-up involving a party in the woods—Freddie finds herself thrust into the tight-knit circle of Berm High’s popular crowd. This opening sets the stage for the delightful chaos that follows, peppered with quirky characters and sharp banter that had me laughing out loud.
One of the most compelling elements of the story is how Dennard intricately weaves together humor and darker themes—specifically, the family curse that lingers over the town and the ominous sounds emanating from the woods. The novel’s small-town setting, steeped in history and just the right amount of creepiness, mirrors the delightful tension in the plot. I found myself captivated not just by Freddie’s journey to solve the mystery of the strange occurrences but also by her dynamic with her best friend, Divya. Their shared admiration for NSYNC and the hilarious adventures that stem from their friendship were a charming highlight, grounding the story in relatable teen experiences.
The writing in The Executioners Three flows effortlessly, expertly balancing fast-paced action with moments of thoughtful reflection. Dennard’s ability to evoke vivid imagery of the atmospheric forest and the haunting bell that no longer rings is impressive; it left me feeling an eerie chill every time the shadows loomed larger. And oh, how I relished Freddie’s budding romance with Theo Porter—the epitome of enemies-to-lovers. Their banter crackled with electricity, lending a fresh spark to the narrative that was beautifully underlined by moments of heartfelt sweetness.
Memorable quotes like Freddie imagining herself and Theo as “Capulets and Montagues” exemplify the clever parallels Dennard draws, infusing the story with cultural references that resonate with readers of all ages. Their flirtatious exchanges not only provided comic relief but also built an emotional layer to their characters that I found genuinely moving.
As I closed the last page of this fun and engaging standalone, I couldn’t help but feel a pang of longing for more. The Executioners Three is a delightful read for anyone who loves YA with a splash of mystery, engaging characters, and a touch of supernatural eeriness. The intricate blend of comedy, romance, and suspense makes it a fitting choice for fans of Dennard’s earlier works and newcomers alike.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend this book to readers looking for a fun escape—especially if you enjoy a gripping mystery interwoven with quirky friendships and sweet love stories. The experience not only entertained me but also sparked nostalgic reflections on high school escapades and the quirky, beautiful chaos of teen life. Thank you, Susan Dennard, for a wonderfully captivating read!