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Deadly Aftermath
315 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 9, 2026
25 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
February 10, 2026
These teens are back at it again, and this time around things are a lot more deadly! They were lethal and while sometimes Spencer spoke verbiage to remind us that they’re young, I found myself forgetting we’re talking about kids as some of them were definitely acting like adults! This series is definitely reminding me of the show 13 reasons why, and I’m excited about book 3!
February 1, 2026
Lucky enough to read this book before it’s published. I couldn’t put it down! The twists and turns from Eddys POV and Heathers had me on the edge of my seat. Each of them on the hunt for a killer, but which one of them is right?
I’m so glad my high school wasn’t full of drama like this.
Cannot wait for the final book in this series because I have so many questions and I’m anxious for answers.
Well done, Spencer. You never cease to amaze me with your writing, twists and turns.
Received the ARC book from Inside Story, leaving this voluntarily.
I’m so glad my high school wasn’t full of drama like this.
Cannot wait for the final book in this series because I have so many questions and I’m anxious for answers.
Well done, Spencer. You never cease to amaze me with your writing, twists and turns.
Received the ARC book from Inside Story, leaving this voluntarily.
February 4, 2026
I was granted the ARC copy of this book, releasing February 9th
*trigger* talk of SA, and abuse but nothing too descriptive.
The story was great, some of the writing was a bit corny like the way some of the high schoolers talk. That could have been a bit more authentic except for Deacon- he’s a weirdo
And it bugged me “possum” is it Opossum or either way? I dunno
The twist at the end was great! What’s next after this book? A trilogy on your hands ?? Hmm
*trigger* talk of SA, and abuse but nothing too descriptive.
The story was great, some of the writing was a bit corny like the way some of the high schoolers talk. That could have been a bit more authentic except for Deacon- he’s a weirdo
And it bugged me “possum” is it Opossum or either way? I dunno
The twist at the end was great! What’s next after this book? A trilogy on your hands ?? Hmm
January 25, 2026
I was lucky to get an ARC of Deadly Aftermath by Spencer Guerrero. He did it again. Left me on the edge of my seat while I tried to figure out the twists. This book will bring you back to your high school days! If you enjoy getting caught up in the drama and trying to figure out who did what this is the book for you! Get your copy Feb 9th, 2026!!
February 21, 2026
Excellent ending
This has a very smooth transition from the first book. The characters continue to grow and develop. The plot has a seamless transition as well. The pace picked up midway through. Now I will have to get the next book.
This has a very smooth transition from the first book. The characters continue to grow and develop. The plot has a seamless transition as well. The pace picked up midway through. Now I will have to get the next book.
February 12, 2026
I wasn't expecting that at all! This book had me thinking throughout the entire book. There was always questions that made me keep reading to see what was next. And then the shock ending has me ready to start the next book now.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Release date: February 9, 2026
Deadly Aftermath by Spencer Guerrero
Twisted Young Adult Mysteries #2
First of all—thank you for this ARC. Truly. Because after absolutely devouring book one, there was no universe where I was not immediately hopping back onto this high-school-from-hell rollercoaster. And yes, it messed with my head again. Rude. Appreciated.
And honestly… what’s a Guerrero book without the warnings?
Weak stomach? Soft heart? Personal trauma that might get poked with a sharp stick (suicide, rape, all the heavy stuff)? This is your exit. Go watch High School Musical. Protect your peace. This book is not here for that.
I closed book one and immediately dove into this one, and somehow—it goes further. Deeper. Darker. More layered. Things you thought you understood before? Nope. Turns out there’s more rot underneath. More betrayal. And it hits harder this time. The kind that makes you pause and think: okay, enough is enough… but how far is too far when you’re trying to make things right?
And let’s not forget: these are high school kids.
No adults swooping in. No safety net. Just teenagers fumbling around in something dark, something hidden, something dangerous. Fear isn’t even spoken out loud. Is it bravery? Is it stupidity? Is it just young people not yet capable of thinking ten steps ahead? Probably all of the above.
All I really know is this: I am so glad my high school days are far behind me. Because if I were in that school? I’d be hiding. Blending into the walls. Pretending I didn’t exist.
In uncomfortable ways, this book made me feel like I’d been there before. Like watching something bad unfold and realizing later how wrong it all was. Very 13 Reasons Why vibes—without the on-page student suicide—but with the same creeping realization: this stuff isn’t unrealistic. It could happen. It probably has happened. And that’s the scariest part.
The people you trust most might become your biggest fear.
The ones who scare you might end up saving you.
Nothing is written in stone—especially not in high school.
And yes, here comes my mom moment (sorry, not sorry):
To the young adults who might read this—please see it as a warning. Wanting to belong is human. Wanting a future is normal. But don’t erase yourself to get there. Nobody is worth risking everything for. Ever.
Okay. Mom speech over.
Now back to the important part:
Spencer—once again—you fed my dark, twisted, ancient soul. I loved the absurdity. I loved how disturbingly possible it all felt. And this one? Made me want to punch certain characters even harder than in book one. Which, frankly, earns it five very firm get-your-act-together-you-absolute-menaces stars.
If you want to know how messed up high school can be—and maybe learn how to survive it by reading very carefully between the lines—read this book. It might not make high school easier… but it will definitely make you see it differently.
And sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Release date: February 9, 2026
Deadly Aftermath by Spencer Guerrero
Twisted Young Adult Mysteries #2
First of all—thank you for this ARC. Truly. Because after absolutely devouring book one, there was no universe where I was not immediately hopping back onto this high-school-from-hell rollercoaster. And yes, it messed with my head again. Rude. Appreciated.
And honestly… what’s a Guerrero book without the warnings?
Weak stomach? Soft heart? Personal trauma that might get poked with a sharp stick (suicide, rape, all the heavy stuff)? This is your exit. Go watch High School Musical. Protect your peace. This book is not here for that.
I closed book one and immediately dove into this one, and somehow—it goes further. Deeper. Darker. More layered. Things you thought you understood before? Nope. Turns out there’s more rot underneath. More betrayal. And it hits harder this time. The kind that makes you pause and think: okay, enough is enough… but how far is too far when you’re trying to make things right?
And let’s not forget: these are high school kids.
No adults swooping in. No safety net. Just teenagers fumbling around in something dark, something hidden, something dangerous. Fear isn’t even spoken out loud. Is it bravery? Is it stupidity? Is it just young people not yet capable of thinking ten steps ahead? Probably all of the above.
All I really know is this: I am so glad my high school days are far behind me. Because if I were in that school? I’d be hiding. Blending into the walls. Pretending I didn’t exist.
In uncomfortable ways, this book made me feel like I’d been there before. Like watching something bad unfold and realizing later how wrong it all was. Very 13 Reasons Why vibes—without the on-page student suicide—but with the same creeping realization: this stuff isn’t unrealistic. It could happen. It probably has happened. And that’s the scariest part.
The people you trust most might become your biggest fear.
The ones who scare you might end up saving you.
Nothing is written in stone—especially not in high school.
And yes, here comes my mom moment (sorry, not sorry):
To the young adults who might read this—please see it as a warning. Wanting to belong is human. Wanting a future is normal. But don’t erase yourself to get there. Nobody is worth risking everything for. Ever.
Okay. Mom speech over.
Now back to the important part:
Spencer—once again—you fed my dark, twisted, ancient soul. I loved the absurdity. I loved how disturbingly possible it all felt. And this one? Made me want to punch certain characters even harder than in book one. Which, frankly, earns it five very firm get-your-act-together-you-absolute-menaces stars.
If you want to know how messed up high school can be—and maybe learn how to survive it by reading very carefully between the lines—read this book. It might not make high school easier… but it will definitely make you see it differently.
And sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.
February 15, 2026
This book was a lot darker than I expected going in, but overall it was such a strong read. The tone leans much heavier than typical YA, and there were definitely moments that felt intense and emotionally weighty — but that’s honestly what made it stand out.
The pacing was steady and suspense-driven. It doesn’t rush you through the mystery; instead, it slowly layers details, tension, and unease until you’re fully invested. There were a few spots where things slowed slightly to build atmosphere or dig deeper into character emotion, but I actually appreciated that because it made the twists hit harder later on.
The characters weren’t perfect — and that’s what made them feel real. They make questionable decisions, react emotionally, and carry trauma in ways that feel believable. You may not always agree with them, but you understand them. I especially liked how the author didn’t water down the emotional consequences of what was happening. The darkness wasn’t just for shock value — it shaped the characters and their choices.
And the twists? Genuinely didn’t see a couple of them coming. The suspense builds in a way that keeps you guessing without feeling chaotic. By the final stretch, I was fully locked in.
This isn’t a light, cozy mystery. It’s gritty, tense, and emotionally heavier than expected — but if you enjoy darker YA mysteries with layered characters and unpredictable turns, this one absolutely delivers.
Definitely a solid 4-star read for me.
The pacing was steady and suspense-driven. It doesn’t rush you through the mystery; instead, it slowly layers details, tension, and unease until you’re fully invested. There were a few spots where things slowed slightly to build atmosphere or dig deeper into character emotion, but I actually appreciated that because it made the twists hit harder later on.
The characters weren’t perfect — and that’s what made them feel real. They make questionable decisions, react emotionally, and carry trauma in ways that feel believable. You may not always agree with them, but you understand them. I especially liked how the author didn’t water down the emotional consequences of what was happening. The darkness wasn’t just for shock value — it shaped the characters and their choices.
And the twists? Genuinely didn’t see a couple of them coming. The suspense builds in a way that keeps you guessing without feeling chaotic. By the final stretch, I was fully locked in.
This isn’t a light, cozy mystery. It’s gritty, tense, and emotionally heavier than expected — but if you enjoy darker YA mysteries with layered characters and unpredictable turns, this one absolutely delivers.
Definitely a solid 4-star read for me.
February 17, 2026
The story moves at a deliberate, tension-filled pace that pulls you in without ever feeling rushed. Rather than racing toward answers, the author carefully builds the mystery piece by piece, layering in subtle clues, rising unease, and emotional weight until you’re completely absorbed. There are moments where the momentum slows to focus on atmosphere and the inner lives of the characters, but those pauses feel intentional — they deepen the experience and make the later revelations land with much greater impact.
The characters themselves are flawed and complicated, which makes them feel authentic. They don’t always make the right choices, and their reactions are often messy and driven by pain or fear, but that realism makes them easy to understand even when you don’t agree with them. The author also refuses to soften the emotional fallout of events, allowing the darker elements of the story to genuinely shape who these people become rather than existing purely for shock.
As for the twists — several genuinely caught me off guard. The suspense builds with control and purpose, keeping you constantly questioning what you think you know without ever feeling scattered. By the final chapters, I was completely hooked and couldn’t look away
On to Book 3!!
The characters themselves are flawed and complicated, which makes them feel authentic. They don’t always make the right choices, and their reactions are often messy and driven by pain or fear, but that realism makes them easy to understand even when you don’t agree with them. The author also refuses to soften the emotional fallout of events, allowing the darker elements of the story to genuinely shape who these people become rather than existing purely for shock.
As for the twists — several genuinely caught me off guard. The suspense builds with control and purpose, keeping you constantly questioning what you think you know without ever feeling scattered. By the final chapters, I was completely hooked and couldn’t look away
On to Book 3!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Deadly Aftermath picks up quickly after the events of Book 1, dropping readers right back into the tension and uncertainty surrounding Brightwood Creek. The dual POV keeps the story moving at a steady pace, allowing us to see how differently characters process grief, suspicion, and the growing pressure around them.
While we don’t get extensive backstory in this installment, we do get meaningful glimpses into the characters’ home lives and their relationships with their parents. These moments add emotional depth and show how the events unfolding at school ripple into their personal worlds, shaping their decisions and reactions in compelling ways.
It was great to see many familiar characters return, especially as tensions shift and trust becomes harder to hold onto. The suspense builds well throughout, leading to a very exciting ending and a major twist that leaves you eager for the next book.
This is definitely not a standalone, reading Book 1 first is essential to fully understand the dynamics and ongoing conflicts. Thankfully, Book 3 (Cult of Lies, Release date Feb 14, 2026) is right around the corner, because that ending demands answers.
Also... I still hate Frank.
While we don’t get extensive backstory in this installment, we do get meaningful glimpses into the characters’ home lives and their relationships with their parents. These moments add emotional depth and show how the events unfolding at school ripple into their personal worlds, shaping their decisions and reactions in compelling ways.
It was great to see many familiar characters return, especially as tensions shift and trust becomes harder to hold onto. The suspense builds well throughout, leading to a very exciting ending and a major twist that leaves you eager for the next book.
This is definitely not a standalone, reading Book 1 first is essential to fully understand the dynamics and ongoing conflicts. Thankfully, Book 3 (Cult of Lies, Release date Feb 14, 2026) is right around the corner, because that ending demands answers.
Also... I still hate Frank.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read the first one and was on tenterhooks waiting for this one and I’m so happy I received it early from Spencer.
Wow..I thought the first book was a wild ride but holy hell fire, this was crazier! I honestly didn’t see it going the way it did.
Although the language speaks as a YA book, the story certainly does not and it’s hard at times to remember that these are school kids. But the storytelling was amazing and touching on subjects that literally take over your life as a teen was done very well as well as the emotions that are heightened with the surge of hormones. Although I’m so glad I was never a part of a school like this, I’d have defo hidden away or transferred as soon as was humanly possible 😂
It really is a brilliant read and I had no words at the end. My brain just didn’t work for a while 🤯🤭
Such an amazing job Spencer. I can’t wait for book 3! 👀
Wow..I thought the first book was a wild ride but holy hell fire, this was crazier! I honestly didn’t see it going the way it did.
Although the language speaks as a YA book, the story certainly does not and it’s hard at times to remember that these are school kids. But the storytelling was amazing and touching on subjects that literally take over your life as a teen was done very well as well as the emotions that are heightened with the surge of hormones. Although I’m so glad I was never a part of a school like this, I’d have defo hidden away or transferred as soon as was humanly possible 😂
It really is a brilliant read and I had no words at the end. My brain just didn’t work for a while 🤯🤭
Such an amazing job Spencer. I can’t wait for book 3! 👀
February 9, 2026
Spencer Guerrero has a serious talent for making you feel uncomfortable in the best way possible.
I thought My Rules for Revenge was intense, but Deadly Aftermath is on a whole different level. This series takes the concept of high school drama and twists it into a dark, visceral psychological thriller.
Guerrero captures that suffocating feeling of high-stakes secrets and social pressure perfectly. It honestly felt like being trapped in the most toxic high school environment imaginable—one where every move is a risk and the hierarchy is a weapon.
I’m still processing exactly how I feel about it because it left me so shaken, but the writing is undeniably sharp and the suspense is unrelenting. It’s gritty, it’s atmospheric, and it’s a masterclass in building tension. If you want a YA mystery that actually has teeth, read this.
Rating: 5 Stars
I thought My Rules for Revenge was intense, but Deadly Aftermath is on a whole different level. This series takes the concept of high school drama and twists it into a dark, visceral psychological thriller.
Guerrero captures that suffocating feeling of high-stakes secrets and social pressure perfectly. It honestly felt like being trapped in the most toxic high school environment imaginable—one where every move is a risk and the hierarchy is a weapon.
I’m still processing exactly how I feel about it because it left me so shaken, but the writing is undeniably sharp and the suspense is unrelenting. It’s gritty, it’s atmospheric, and it’s a masterclass in building tension. If you want a YA mystery that actually has teeth, read this.
Rating: 5 Stars
January 27, 2026
Being an ARC reader for Spencer is the most exciting, jaw-dropping, most grateful thing ever!
NOW SPENCER WE HAVE TO TALK BECAUSE WHYYYY? The cliff hanger at the ending was a tease so hurry up with the next book asap! From start to finish this book had my jaw on the floor. It picked right back up where the first book left off & got more intense as you kept reading. I definitely had my suspicions throughout the book but the ending had my mind saying WTF — I definitely did not suspect the one person who put on the sweet act reveal so much! The next book will definitely be amazing with the way this ended!!
Thank you Spencer for another amazing 10/10 book!!!
NOW SPENCER WE HAVE TO TALK BECAUSE WHYYYY? The cliff hanger at the ending was a tease so hurry up with the next book asap! From start to finish this book had my jaw on the floor. It picked right back up where the first book left off & got more intense as you kept reading. I definitely had my suspicions throughout the book but the ending had my mind saying WTF — I definitely did not suspect the one person who put on the sweet act reveal so much! The next book will definitely be amazing with the way this ended!!
Thank you Spencer for another amazing 10/10 book!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Deadly Aftermath is a dark, fast-moving, and brilliantly twisty follow-up that had me glued to every page. The atmosphere is tense from the very beginning, and the dual perspectives add so much depth as Eddy and Heather navigate secrets, suspicion, and the fallout from book one.
I loved how the stakes kept rising — every chapter layered on more tension, more reveals, and more questions. The psychological elements were sharp, unsettling, and so well written. And that ending… completely explosive. I’m absolutely itching for the next instalment.
A gripping, addictive read. Highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Deadly Aftermath effectively captures the angst that many high schoolers go through. It also captures the level of deception and threats that some are willing to resort to in order to cover their tracks, at least in their mind. Hopefully not every teenager is facing the dark secrets including murder that these teens face though. There were several twists and turns in the story, including more in the epilogue.
If you enjoy YA darker themed books, and/or like Spencer's other books, you will definitely enjoy this one.
If you enjoy YA darker themed books, and/or like Spencer's other books, you will definitely enjoy this one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is book 2 in a trilogy of a Twisted Young Adult Mystery genre. I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy from the author but the following review is of my own opinion.
These books are to be progressively darker. Spencer is an amazing author that is able to describe things so well you can actually picture it as its happening. This book does immediately follow the ending of the first book with dual Povs. Without listing any spoilers I would say this series is a must read! Bravo Spencer!!! I can't wait for the 3rd and final book!!!
These books are to be progressively darker. Spencer is an amazing author that is able to describe things so well you can actually picture it as its happening. This book does immediately follow the ending of the first book with dual Povs. Without listing any spoilers I would say this series is a must read! Bravo Spencer!!! I can't wait for the 3rd and final book!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The sequel follows the life of Heather, Eddy and frank to Senior year while Jacob is in his 1st year at college. Heather is the same spitfire just less angry at the world and now Eddy is the one who cant let go of his anger and is trying to solve what happed to 2 missing classmates. The clues lead him to questioning everyone who he thought was his true friend and wondering if he was ever as good as a person as everyone thought.The sequel is even more captivating than the 1st one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Spencer has done it again with this book! His mind is twisted and he really puts the feelings of these teenagers into the book. Eddy is determined to ruin Frank's life because he is a bad person. Heather is trying to figure out who killed her friend Luna. The way these characters work together to meet their goals is great! Just when I thought I had everything figured out, I did not. Can't wait for the final book in this series!
February 1, 2026
Lucky enough to receive an ARC from the great Spencer Guerrero! Deadly Aftermath is book 2 of his Twisted Young Adult Mysteries series! Such a good book! Will leave you guessing and wondering what is to come around the corner! Ending was so good but left me wanting more! Thankfully book 3 is coming very soon!
If you haven’t read the first book in this series (My Rules for revenge) check it out and get ready for the release of Deadly Aftermath Available Feb 9th on Kindle Unlimited!
If you haven’t read the first book in this series (My Rules for revenge) check it out and get ready for the release of Deadly Aftermath Available Feb 9th on Kindle Unlimited!
Review of advance copy
I got this as an ARC and this was absolutely amazing! I read the first one and couldn't get enough. When Spencer announced there were two more I couldn't wait! Let me tell you this absolutely did not disappoint! The whole book left you wanting and needing to know more and the ending... oh man! I cannot wait to read the third one! I highly recommend this series. I am not a YA reader but these ones take the cake for sure!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a fast paced and intense story.
It follows the events after those in Book 1 of the series. And I can NOT wait to read book 3 after that ending...
I was definitely suspicious of a certain character, and was pleased that my suspicions were correct.
Told from dual POV. And had me on the edge of my seat.
Definitely jaw dropping moments.
A huge thank you to @spencergauthor for sending me a copy of this in exchange for my honest review.
It follows the events after those in Book 1 of the series. And I can NOT wait to read book 3 after that ending...
I was definitely suspicious of a certain character, and was pleased that my suspicions were correct.
Told from dual POV. And had me on the edge of my seat.
Definitely jaw dropping moments.
A huge thank you to @spencergauthor for sending me a copy of this in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is definitely not your typical highschool story! It goes right into it from the first one and it just gets so much better. Heather and Eddy are the main characters in this one and I love them. Something happens to their friend Luna and they are trying to figure out where she went. There is backstabbing, drama, murd3r, rap3, mystery, and so many twists & turns! I loved this story, I flew through. I can't wait for the next one Spencer!
February 9, 2026
I loved this book! I am so glad I never went to school with these characters or people like them. Yes, we all have some nit great people in our schools, but luckily, my group of friends was nothing like these ones.
There are some twists and turns that I saw coming and a few I didn't. Characters I cheered for and those I waited to see go down with a bang! I need book 3 like right now!!!!!
Go grab boon 1 and this one today! I highly recommend them both! Must read in order!
There are some twists and turns that I saw coming and a few I didn't. Characters I cheered for and those I waited to see go down with a bang! I need book 3 like right now!!!!!
Go grab boon 1 and this one today! I highly recommend them both! Must read in order!
January 30, 2026
4.5
This was so freaking good! It took me a second to remember book 1 details because it’s been awhile between books but once I got started all the info came flowing back! I loved the follow up to book 1 but I need book 3 now!! When the epilogue hit I knew some 💩 was gonna go down and I was so right! Yeah im gonna need that book 3 asap!!
This was so freaking good! It took me a second to remember book 1 details because it’s been awhile between books but once I got started all the info came flowing back! I loved the follow up to book 1 but I need book 3 now!! When the epilogue hit I knew some 💩 was gonna go down and I was so right! Yeah im gonna need that book 3 asap!!
January 30, 2026
All I can say is Spencer did it again. Deadly Aftermath keeps you guessing on who is trustworthy and who is not. You think you know who the suspect is but it isn’t what you expect. This book keeps you in suspense as you find out new details of the characters and what happens when you connect with new friends and alliances to take out those who are out to take out those who stand in their way.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The second book in the series. Same characters for the first book. I was lucky to have this book as an arc. So Heather in this book has let her hair down and eddy has become the one wanting revenge. This book was as good as the first plenty going on to keep you reading with a twist at the end thats makes you wanted the third book to hurry and appear.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was an ARC reader for this and I have to say I enjoyed it. This was the 2nd book in the series. If you’re not into YA you shouldn’t read this. However if you don’t mind you’ll thoroughy enjoy! Who would have thought so much deception, vengeance and betrayal could take place in HS? I loved every minute of it. Spencer, you’ve done it again!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Spencer, you did it again! I’m so thankful to have been selected to read the ARC, and it was as good as the first.
The emotional depth that you get from this book on our favorite (except Frank) characters is amazing. Seeing their home dynamics just makes you all the more invested in the characters. As always, wonderful job!
The emotional depth that you get from this book on our favorite (except Frank) characters is amazing. Seeing their home dynamics just makes you all the more invested in the characters. As always, wonderful job!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Deadly Aftermath follows A Bully's Revenge. You have the same characters up to more shenanigans. I loved this book as much and A Bully's Revenge. Its a page turning, want to know more, can't wait to see what happens kind of book. And even though I am not a teen I enjoyed reading this series from Spencer Guerrero. You already know and love the characters come and see what they are up to next.
February 10, 2026
The story continued from where the first book left off, dropping our favorite teens, Eddy and Heather, into a new murder mystery. (You need to read the first book, My Rules For Revenge before this one.) I liked the authenticity of the high school drama and the struggles to fit in, along with that teenage sense of invincibility that has them diving into danger. Thank you, Spencer Guerrero, for having me on your ARC team.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews