not going to bother with a long review for this book. was entertaining throughout and super easy to read, binged most of it in one sitting. the characters were all distinct and fleshed out enough for a ya mystery. i have no complaints with 90% of it.

but the ending?? that was the laziest, most disappointing ending i have read. what was the point? there were so many things that could’ve been done?? i had many theories and hyped myself up with suspense just for it to fall so flat. so pointless.

i tried to read this without predicting anything because usually with ya mysteries it’s easier to guess the reveal or “whodunnit”, and i will say i definitely did predict this one but wasn’t even mad about it really. like i said, the ending just made me pause and say “are you serious?” and put the book down in shame.

on a more positive note, the atmosphere was really fun. i love the amusement park setting and would like to read more books based in this location. also, malcolm reminded me of willy wonka with his long coat and strange way of speaking, so that was fun.

overall though, the book is mid and forgettable. enjoyed it while i read it until the ending, and that’s about it.