Book 3 of the trilogy.
The Bayview Crew is home for the summer. Addy is watching a press conference where it is mentioned that Jake may be released before a new trial. This brings up all the bad feelings and memories from when they dated.
There is a billboard with a cryptic message, and the Bayview group: Bronwyn, Cooper, Addy, Nate, Maeve, Phoebe, Knox, Luis, and Kris are all targets.
Jake and Chelsea/Edie have a major secret, and it could be deadly.
Chelsea-and the story of her father died is central to this story.
Phoebe is kidnapped-Nate is injured, more death.
Bronwyn and Nate reveal their feelings. Ashton, Addy's sister, is pregnant.
Exciting and satisfying ending. ( )

Last book in the Bayview trilogy, sees Jake released on a technicality awaiting a new trial that sends the friends into panic mode - what if he isn't found guilty of trying to kill one of them? ( from the last book.) To make matters worse, a strange billboard with a cryptic message appears in town and then Penny is kidnapped after being drugged at a party. She is found the next day with the word "Practice " on her arm. The next victim who is caught isn't so lucky - he turns up dead with "Makes" on his.....Who will finish the slogan with the word "Perfect"? And is it Jake who is doing the kidnapping, as he has cut off his tracer bracelet and disappeared.
Few red herrings thrown in here to put the reader off the scent - the car that follows them and various other dead ends. I had my suspicions about one of our culprits but not the other, so well done to McManus for successfully hiding one of the "baddies" from me. Though I did guess how the book was going to end - I think it will satisfy most readers even if it is a bit macbre. ( )

A Riveting Return to Suspense in "One of Us is Back" by Karen M. McManus

Rating: ★★★★☆

"One of Us is Back" by Karen M. McManus is a thrilling and gripping addition to the suspense genre. Building upon the success of its predecessor, McManus takes readers back to Bayview High School, where secrets, lies, and unexpected twists await.

In this sequel to "One of Us is Lying," McManus introduces a new set of characters grappling with their own personal demons and navigating the treacherous landscape of high school. The story revolves around the return of a certain character, whose reappearance sends shockwaves through the lives of the remaining students. McManus skillfully weaves together multiple perspectives, keeping readers guessing and on the edge of their seats until the final revelation.

One of the standout aspects of McManus's writing is her ability to create complex and relatable characters. Each character in "One of Us is Back" has a distinct voice, layered personalities, and hidden depths. The author explores their motivations, fears, and vulnerabilities, making them more than just stock figures in a mystery. Their interactions and shifting alliances add an intriguing dynamic to the narrative, fueling suspicions and keeping readers engrossed in their quest for the truth.

The pacing of the novel is well-crafted, with McManus masterfully balancing moments of tension and respite. The story progresses at a steady pace, gradually building suspense as clues and red herrings are scattered throughout. The chapters are short and punchy, which propels the narrative forward and makes it difficult to put the book down.

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McManus once again demonstrates her knack for crafting intricate and unpredictable plots. "One of Us is Back" is filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers guessing. Just when you think you've figured out the puzzle, the author throws another curveball, making it a challenging and satisfying mystery.

While the novel excels in many areas, there are instances where the resolution feels slightly rushed. The final reveal and the tying up of loose ends could have benefited from a bit more development and exploration. However, this minor flaw does not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the book.

In conclusion, "One of Us is Back" is a compelling and engrossing read that will delight fans of the suspense genre. Karen M. McManus delivers another thrilling story, filled with intriguing characters, unexpected plot twists, and a healthy dose of high school drama. Although the conclusion could have been more fully realized, the book succeeds in keeping readers hooked until the very end. If you're looking for a page-turner that will keep you guessing, "One of Us is Back" is a worthy addition to your reading list.

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This was the ending of a trilogy no one was seeking. The readers are back with both gangs from the first two books that are all now mingled together as the Murder Crew. A billboard says, a new came is started and there is just one rule… It was nice to revisit the characters that I loved from the first book, and the ones I liked from the second book. There are just a few new characters in this book, but the love just isn’t there. Most of this book is character studies. What is happening to who, how are they living with themselves, etc. There is a kidnapping, and 2 deaths, but unlike the prequels they were not exciting. It was boring. It took over half the book to get to the first death, and then it rushed to the end. I liked revisiting the characters, but it wasn’t something I needed to do. This book is only for the fans. It will not stop me from reading other McManus books, because I usually love them, but please, let this franchise die. ( )

UPDATE 2: Wow, [b:One of Us Is Back|57932307|One of Us Is Back (One of Us is Lying #3)|Karen M. McManus|https://s.gr-assets.com/assets/nophoto/book/50x75-a91bf249278a81aabab721ef782c4a74.png|90766825]. Didn't expect that name, but woah that's really cool ( )