Reviews with content warning for Sexual assault - Only If You're Lucky

Trigger warning: Brief discussion of sexual assault and stalking.

A Flicker in the Dark set the bar really high for this author, and I can honestly say this book still didn't quite get there. Having said that, it was a really solid read and I was really intrigued by the characters and didn't see several of the twists coming. Sometimes I felt like the plot beat around the bush a little more than it needed to, but overall this was a solid mystery/thriller and I'm glad I had the chance to pick it up.

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shawniejo's review against another edition

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dark mysterious tense slow-paced

3.25

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bookdragonkatie's review against another edition

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dark mysterious tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

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chaptersofchase's review against another edition

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dark mysterious slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Loveable characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

You've Been Accepted
Thank you, Minotaur Books, for the gifted copy of Only if You're Lucky {partner}

Genre: Mystery
Format: 📖
Pub Date: 1.16.2024
Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆

"There is no right or wrong, noble or evil, but simply the existence of people who dabble in their own combination of each."

I've never been drawn to books that center around toxic female friendships because the story ultimately takes on a YA element. While I got some YA element vibes from Only if You're Lucky, it wasn't overwhelming.

The author, Stacy Willingham, created the perfect setting in this book as it took me right back to my college days and had me thinking about all of the decisions I made (some reckless) and how I had no idea what I was doing. So, while the story was part of a mystery, it was also an exciting look at complex friendships at such a young and impressionable age.

I enjoyed reading along, trying to figure out what happened to Levi and Lucy because I felt the obvious answer was right beneath my nose. The ending and how everything played out felt unbelievable, leaving me disappointed.

😒 Unlikable characters
☢️ Toxic friendships
👩🏽‍🏫 College setting
✌🏼 Dual timeline
📖 Slow burn

🛑 alcohol abuse, drug abuse, sexual assault, hazingå

I recommend reading Only if You're Lucky if you would enjoy watching Pretty Little Liars: The College Years.

_

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