YOUNG ADULT book of the week

THE COUSINS

by Karen M Mcmanus, Penguin, paperback £7.99, ebook £4.99

★★★★ ★

KAREN M MCMANUS’ latest thriller draws you in from the start. Cousins Audrey, Mildred and Jonah – all 18 – are virtually strangers, and they’ve been invited to their grandmother’s prestigious resort to work during the summer holidays and get to know her – and each other – a little better.

This is a big deal, because their parents have all been mysteriously disinherited by their grandmother.

The trio attempts to unravel the mystery and restore their family – but it soon becomes clear life is a lot more sinister than the glamorous East Coast island would suggest.

Mcmanus’ real strength is her witty and sharp dialogue that delivers the plot at a punchy pace. She adds just the right level of detail and character growth to make a thoroughly enjoyable read for teens and adults alike.