Book Review: The Executioners Three by Susan Dennard
When I first picked up The Executioners Three, I had high hopes—Susan Dennard has a way of weaving the extraordinary within the ordinary, and I was eager to see how she would blend humor, romance, and mystery in this YA supernatural tale. Breaking my “no YA” rule for this author felt less like a compromise and more like a sweet escape, and let me tell you, it was absolutely worth it!
Set in the quaint, eerie backdrop of Berm, a small town wrapped in the whispers of its historical past, Dennard crafts a world that feels both familiar and haunting. The story follows Freddie Gellar, a quirky senior just trying to find her way amidst the chaos of high school drama, unexpected arrests, and a mystery cloaked in the shadows of a creeping forest. It’s a bit of a coming-of-age tale turned thrilling escapade, and I couldn’t help but root for Freddie as she navigated her ambitions of joining the local police force while delving into the unfolding mystery tied to an ominous family curse.
Freddie’s journey is as much about discovery as it is about unraveling the dark threads woven into the fabric of her town. The moment she, alongside her best friend Divya, stumbles upon a dead body in the woods, the stakes are raised, and suddenly she evolves from a gossiping teenager to a determined amateur investigator channeling her inner Nancy Drew. This blend of mystery and humor kept me engaged from start to finish, and I found myself laughing out loud at the witty banter between Freddie and Theo, the rival schoolboy she begrudgingly teams up with. Their chemistry sizzles with tension and hilarity, reminiscent of classic couple dynamics, and it’s a joy to watch them transform from enemies to something much sweeter.
Dennard’s writing shines in the pacing and the dialogue, both seamlessly dragging me into the adrenaline-fueled pulse of Freddie’s world and its peculiarities. The vivid descriptions made me feel like I was wandering through the dense woods right beside her, my heart pounding as I anticipated each new twist. The atmospheric setting, steeped in historical richness, amplified the creepiness factor—the ringing bells from the past echoing ominously, the crows looming overhead, feeding into the supernatural intrigue.
One delightful aspect of the novel is its embrace of strong, fun characters. Freddie’s relationship with Divya is particularly refreshing; their shared love for NSYNC and playful friendship adds a light-hearted charm to the story. I couldn’t help but smile at their antics, especially their faith in a lucky Lance Bass keychain—which, let’s be honest, is an idea I would totally endorse for good vibes!
Overall, The Executioners Three is a delightful romp through mystery and romance, packaged in a story that balances spookiness with heartfelt moments. This novel will resonate not only with Dennard’s avid fans but also with newcomers who appreciate a quick-paced, engaging read with relatable characters. It’s a story of bravery, friendship, and a dash of love that lingers with you long after the last page. As I flipped the final chapters, I found myself wishing for a reunion—because Freddie, Theo, and their quirky gang are characters I’d love to see again.
If you have a soft spot for delightful YA novels with a twist of mystery, this one is definitely for you! Happy reading!