Why The Executioners Three is My New Favorite YA Thriller Full of 90s Nostalgia

Author: Susan Dennard

Publisher: Tor Publishing Group

Rating: 5 ★

Have you ever picked up a book that feels like it was written specifically for you? That's exactly how I felt while reading The Executioners Three by Susan Dennard. This captivating novel features 17-year-old Freddie, the quintessential 90s kid. She’s an X-Files fanatic, a die-hard NSYNC lover (never The Backstreet Boys!), and is determined to uncover the truth about a local mystery. When a body is found in the nearby woods, Freddie believes it’s not the suicide the authorities claim it to be. What follows is an exhilarating journey filled with mystery, friendship, and self-discovery.

Freddie is not just a character; she feels like someone I know. Her determination and loyalty are admirable, but she also displays the relatable quirks of a typical teen, like getting distracted by cute boys and engaging in playful pranks. This realistic portrayal of teenage life made me feel an unmistakable connection to her adventures. It brought back memories of my youth, where every day felt like a new adventure.

Complex Characters

The characters in The Executioners Three are intricately crafted, offering each a distinct personality, motive, and backstory that enhance the story’s depth. Freddie's friends form a tight-knit prank squad, while their interactions with “prep students” from the rival school add interesting dynamics and rivalries.

One standout character is Theo, Freddie's witty counterpart, enemy #1, and one of the cutest boys she's seen. Their playful banter and burgeoning romance add an exciting spark to the story. This blend of friendships and emerging love stories kept me invested and tugged at my heartstrings, reminding me of my own teenage experiences navigating the tricky world of crushes and camaraderie.

Intriguing Plot

The plot is an engaging mix of murder mystery and adolescent adventures that had me reading late into the night. The intricate twists kept me guessing, creating an electric atmosphere of suspense that draws you into Freddie's world. For instance, when Freddie stumbles upon clues related to the murder only to find out the evidence is now missing, the tension increased and really made you question the adults around her.

Beyond the murder mystery, Dennard tackles themes of friendship, loyalty, and personal growth. The stakes are high, turning what could have been a standard YA thriller into something poignant and more relevant: a tale about seeking the truth and finding oneself amidst chaos.

Dennard’s Writing Style

This was my first experience with Susan Dennard's writing, and I found her style to be refreshing and engaging. There’s a casual, approachable rhythm to her prose that makes the book a breeze to read. The humor sprinkled throughout is genuine and perfectly timed, while the emotional beats resonate, making you feel connected to the characters.

Her descriptive language paints vivid pictures of the settings and crew's emotions. The humor-infused dialogue felt natural and relatable, making me feel like I was alongside Freddie and her friends as they navigated their thrilling adventures. I loved when Freddie would say "The truth is out there" instead of promising an adult not to do something or go somewhere.

A Must-Read for YA Fans

The Executioners Three is a must-read for anyone who loves YA thrillers, especially those nostalgic for the 90s. Dennard masterfully balances humor and suspense with just the right sprinkling of romance, crafting a story that stays with you long after you've turned the last page.

As I anticipate the book’s release on August 26, 2025, I’m eagerly looking forward to holding a physical copy and revisiting the delightful characters and mysterious plot.

Final Thoughts

In a literary landscape filled with contemporary novels, The Executioners Three shines as a unique addition to the YA genre. Its memorable characters, nostalgic setting, and thrilling mystery resonate deeply. Susan Dennard brilliantly encapsulates the essence of teenage life in the late 90s while delivering a captivating plot that speaks to young adults today.

Whether you’re drawn to mysteries, nostalgic tales, or just crave a good story filled with emotion, this book is for you. I wholeheartedly recommend picking it up when it releases—you won't regret it!

Thank you Tor Publishing Group for an eARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.