One of Us Is Lying

Next, we have a true standout in YA—a novel that arguably revolutionized the mystery genre for teen readers.

While mysteries have long been a staple in YA literature, in my view, this book sparked a new age. This novel, now adapted into a popular Netflix series, firmly established YA mystery as a force to be reckoned with, largely thanks to its clever twist.

Taut, scandalous, and enthralling, this book exemplifies the blame game genre.

After I read this book, I was determined to write a thriller because I admired how clever it was and wanted to write something even a fraction as enthralling.

The plot is so meticulously planned and there are surprises and twists at every turn. Its premise is so original, often described as Pretty Little Liars meets The Breakfast Club. Five students are in detention together and one of them ends up dead. The other four are prime suspects in his murder.

I love the use of multiple POVs because you keep learning new information from different perspectives. 

Described as The Breakfast Club with murder, this book is overflowing with scandal and juicy secrets. When Simon, the mastermind behind Bayview High’s notorious gossip app, drops dead during detention, suspicion falls on four of his fellow classmates: Bronwyn, Addy, Nate, and Cooper. In the ensuing chaos, the suspects form an unlikely alliance that proves death has a transformative effect on the living. I found myself flying through this book, questioning everything, and, of course, trying to crack the case (alas, I was unsuccessful). 

First of all, as the list title promises, there is a ton of suspense. This book personally was one I didn’t think I’d get into at first. But the suspense, the bit of a mystery to unravel, all paired with the forbidden-ish romance between Nate and Bronwyn had me swooning. This one particularly did remind me of the romance between Lucas and Abby in my own book due to the near forbidden nature of it. They know they really shouldn’t be around each other or together at all. Yet, they can’t help themselves. This one, in the end, taught me… show more.

The old death-by-peanut-butter murder! Five teens end up in school detention – only four make it out alive. The ultimate teenage who-done-it! It’s a guessing game until the very end, a total page-turner with every element a young adult novel should have. Still have to watch the TV series but I know it’ll be great.

This book stirred up all my Breakfast Club feels with a little Agatha Christie on the side. It’s a mystery revolving around five high schoolers locked in detention, one murder, and a whole host of secrets. McManus is a master of plot twists and great characters with secrets that keep on coming. The best part is that a clever reader can solve the mystery and feel like an ace detective.