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240
Novel • Fiction
Pacific Northwest • 2010s
2016
YA
12-18 years
HL660L
In April Henry's The Girl I Used to Be, orphaned teenager Olivia Reinhart, who was formerly Ariel Benson, discovers that her father was not her mother's murderer after his remains are found. Returning to her hometown under an assumed name, Olivia sets out to uncover the true killer while grappling with her fragmented identity and complex family history. The novel includes themes of parental death and violence.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Dark
Emotional
11,784 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Girl I Used to Be by April Henry blends suspense and an engaging plot as it follows the protagonist's quest to uncover her parents' killer. Reviewers praise the fast-paced narrative and well-developed characters, though some critique the predictability of the mystery. Overall, it's considered a compelling read for young adult audiences interested in thrillers.
The ideal reader for The Girl I Used to Be by April Henry would be a young adult who enjoys fast-paced mystery and thriller novels with strong, relatable protagonists. Fans of One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus and We Were Liars by E. Lockhart will find similar intrigue and suspense in this gripping story.
11,784 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Nora Murdoch
A kind and caring neighbor who was close friends with Olivia's grandmother and attempted to adopt her. Nora provides emotional support and represents a link to Olivia's family history.
Naomi Benson
Ariel/Olivia's biological mother who was remembered as loving and high-spirited. Her life and untimely death significantly impact the community's and Olivia's perspective on her past.
Terry Weeks
Ariel/Olivia's father, remembered as lively but remote due to suspicions surrounding the murder of Naomi. His story remains complex as the community grapples with his legacy.
Duncan
A childhood friend of Olivia who becomes her initial romantic interest upon her return to Medford. He provides companionship and assistance in Olivia's investigation while helping her reconnect with her past.
Stephen Spaulding
The chief of police whose actions play a crucial role in the narrative. His dual role as both a protector of justice and a source of dread adds complexity to the community's understanding of past events.
240
Novel • Fiction
Pacific Northwest • 2010s
2016
YA
12-18 years
HL660L
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