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One of Us is Lying

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2017

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Book Brief

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Karen M. McManus

One of Us is Lying

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2017
Book Details
Pages

259

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

California • Contemporary

Publication Year

2017

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL730L

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Super Short Summary

One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus follows the mystery of Simon Kelleher's death during detention with four other students—Bronwyn, Nate, Addy, and Cooper—each a suspect due to secrets Simon planned to reveal. The narrative explores the impact of stereotyping, gossip, and family influence as the students uncover hidden truths and form unexpected alliances to solve the crime. The book addresses themes of drug use, infidelity, and violence.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Dark

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.2

956,342 ratings

72%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus is praised for its engaging mystery, distinct character voices, and intricate plot twists. However, some critics argue that the storyline lacks originality and the ending feels predictable. Despite this, the book effectively captures high school dynamics and keeps readers hooked.

Who should read this

Who Should Read One of Us is Lying?

A reader who enjoys the suspenseful dynamics of high school life, complex characters, and twisty, layered mysteries would find One of Us is Lying captivating. Fans of Pretty Little Liars by Sara Shepard and Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher will appreciate its blend of drama and intrigue.

4.2

956,342 ratings

72%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Bronwyn Rojas

The academically driven daughter of Yale graduates, Bronwyn faces pressure to achieve similar success and navigates personal and ethical challenges during a murder investigation at her high school.

A high school student with a troubled home life, Nate is on probation for selling drugs and becomes a murder suspect while developing a relationship with Bronwyn.

A talented baseball player whose public image is complicated by personal secrets, Cooper is one of the murder suspects and struggles with the expectations his father has for his future.

Initially seen as a "princess," Addy re-evaluates her priorities and relationships after she becomes entangled in the aftermath of a classmate’s murder.

The creator of a notorious high school gossip app, Simon's death at the beginning of the story sets off the central mystery and exposes secrets of his classmates.

Simon's only close friend before his death, Janae is thrust into the chaos following Simon’s demise and grapples with her own role in the unfolding drama.

Addy's controlling boyfriend at the start of the story, Jake’s reaction to unfolding events adds tension to the narrative.

Addy’s supportive older sister who offers guidance and helps her navigate difficult family dynamics.

Bronwyn’s tech-savvy younger sister, who aids in the investigation surrounding Simon’s death with her programming skills.

Book Details
Pages

259

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

California • Contemporary

Publication Year

2017

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL730L

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