#murdertrending is a dystopian fiction mystery thriller book written by Author Gretchen McNeil.

The book takes place in a world where “criminals” that are proven guilty of crimes, usually along the lines of murder, are sent to this island called “Alcatraz 2.0” which is run by this mysterious guy called the Postman. On this island, it is like a reality show where everywhere and everything on the island is broadcast live to the “Postman App,” where people can watch these streams and comment on them. 

The most important thing about Alcatraz 2.0 is that there are these executioners that the main cast called the “Painiacs”. These executioners choose and kidnap these criminals and broadcast their usually unique execution for the entertainment of the people on the outside. As for the Island itself, it’s like a gated community from hell. The convicts have houses and jobs they must work if they want to eat. They’re given clothes based on how the Postman sees them. The main protagonist, Dee, is given a wardrobe of colorful puffy, frilly dresses. They’re dressed like this to boost views, which means more money; and the Postman LOVES money.

The main character of this series, Dee Guerrera, is convicted of killing her step-sister Monica and she is sent to the island to get executed. However, she is determined to prove her innocence and is not going out without a fight. She makes a bunch of friends and allies while on the island that the viewers call “The Death Row Breakfast Club.” She is determined to unravel the secrets of Alcatraz 2.0, Find her sister’s killer, and prove she is innocent.

In my honest opinion, the book is pretty good for a read, even though I had to read it for an assignment. The cast of characters is very interesting and watching them interact with each other is fun to see with their contrasting personalities. We do get to learn what they did to end up on Alcatraz 2.0, but that’s a spoiler and I won’t say more on that topic. As for the plot, it’s pretty interesting to understand the island, and plenty of scenes will have you thinking, “is that legal?” In this world, unfortunately, the answer is yes. 

In conclusion, the book is a great read, and If you love suspenseful, mysterious books with people’s lives on the line, I believe that you’ll love this book.