Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher for tour with Rockstar Book Tours. Thanks! All opinions are my own.

Book: The Cousins

Author: Karen M. McManus

Book Series: Standalone

Rating: 5/5

Diversity: half Japanese main character

Recommended For...: mystery lovers, ya readers

Publication Date: December 1, 2020

Genre: YA Mystery

Recommended Age: 16+ (murder, death, gore, violence, fire, language, romance)

Publisher: Delacorte Press

Pages: 337

Synopsis: Milly, 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. This could be the opportunity to get back into Grandmother's good graces. But when the cousins arrive on the island, it's immediately clear that she has different plans for them. And the longer they stay, the more they realize how mysterious—and dark—their family's past is.

The entire Story family has secrets. Whatever pulled them apart years ago isn't over—and this summer, the cousins will learn everything.

Review: I really liked this book! I have been a huge fan of Karen McManus for a long time, but this book was one of my faves (of course, I say that all the time). I loved the character development and intricate details of this book. I loved the world building and the romance was cute and not rushed. The book also has great re-readability!

The only things that I think I didn’t like is that the pacing was a bit slow in places, but the atmosphere made it worth the wait. I also didn’t enjoy the ending as much. As realistic as it was, I wished for a resolute ending. I wanted one where all parties were held accountable for their misdoings, but as much as I would like, sometimes people get away with murder.

Verdict: Highly recommend for mystery lovers!