"4.5 ⭐️

i really wasn’t sure if this sequel could live up to the first book, but pip did it again. i was fully hooked from the start. the stakes felt even higher this time, and i loved how much darker and more emotional this one got. it’s not just about solving a mystery anymore—it’s about justice, grief, and the weight of everything pip’s been through. it really dives deeper into the emotional cost of what she’s doing, and that added so much depth to the story. you can feel the tension in every chapter.

pip continues to be such a complex, relatable, and powerful character. she’s clearly changed from book one, and seeing how that trauma shaped the way she approached this case made me feel for her so deeply. she’s still sharp and determined, but there’s this underlying exhaustion and intensity that made every choice hit harder. there were moments where i just wanted to hug her, especially when she was dealing with some of the heavier emotional beats. she’s carrying so much weight on her shoulders, and you can really feel how close she is to breaking down.

ravi owns my whole heart. his support for pip, even when things get intense or messy, was so steady and loyal. their connection felt even stronger this time, and i loved how much trust and care there was between them. ravi and pip are so cute i was actually squealing. their moments were everything. it’s rare to see a relationship like theirs that feels so real and grounded, despite all the chaos surrounding them. i love how they balance each other out and how much they rely on each other. honestly, i’d read a whole book just about them being cute together.

the mystery? tense, compelling, and unsettling in the best way. holly jackson knows how to keep readers invested and doubting everything. i had no clue where it was going at times but i couldn’t stop reading. there were so many twists and turns, and just when i thought i had it figured out, another surprise would come my way. the pacing was perfect, and the way the mystery unfolded kept me on the edge of my seat. the suspense was so strong, and the way it all tied together at the end was just amazing.

₊�� ‿︵‿︵‿︵୨୧ · · �� · · ୨୧‿︵‿︵‿︵ ˚��

𐙚⋆°｡⋆♡ pre-read ♡⋆°｡⋆𐙚
�� immediately diving into this. i loved the first book wayyy more than i expected, so i’m excited (and a little nervous) to see what chaos pip gets into next."

&��ܴdz�;·:*¨�� pre-read ༻��*:·

Finally have electricity and wifi back 😭 you’d think I got a lot of reading done but I was just anxious all day because I was stuck in my home and couldn’t reach anyone. This was the weirdest dystopian day ever, let’s not repeat it, thanks.
Anyways, managed to start reading this and then had to stop because the sun set and I couldn’t see, talk about cave man days 😅 but so far I’m enjoying and loving Elm!!"

"Ok I'm finally doing it please send prayers"