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michelleub's review
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
Now to the actual review:
I must say, in the beginning I didn’t think I’d like this book and that it would be a disappointment but it’s actually interesting and I wanted keep on reading. I guess I just wanted to find out who the killer is.
This book reminded me of the naturals, I know a lot of people say it’s like the secret history but YA, but I haven’t read that yet so I can’t compare them. But the gifted kids that go to a special school and are in an exclusive program part reminded me of the naturals.
I loved that it was fast paced and that it was such an easy read I just would have liked for it to be longer.
But I loved the serial killer vibes, and the billy loomis reference from ghostface. And the killer reveal was definitely unexpected.
Graphic: Blood, Death, Murder, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Mental illness
saramcaps's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
YA clearly inspired by The Secret History… but with none of the gravitas, all of the red herrings, and I actually liked the characters. Super fun and fast-paced palette cleanser of a thriller.
Graphic: Mental illness
lindseyb317's review
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Graphic: Death, Gaslighting, Mental illness, Murder, Injury/Injury detail, Violence, and Blood
Moderate: Alcohol
avidreaderandgeekgirl's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
There were twists and the why of the murders (which to me was stupid, but the mental health part of it was interesting), but it would have been better without the part mentioned in the spoiler. So if you want to read this I recommend a physical or e-copy of the book.
Narrator Rating: 4 stars
The actual narrator was good. Just that choice by the publisher was the issue.
Extra ratings: Fluff - 0/5 Heartfelt- 1.5/5 Helpful -NA Horror -NA Inspiration -NA Love aka Romance- 3/5 Mystery -4/5 Predictability -4.5/5 Spice-0.5/5 Suspense -2/5 Tear- 1/5 Thrill -3/5 Humor-0/5
Graphic: Vomit, Murder, Violence, Blood, Death, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Body horror, Mental illness, Toxic friendship, and Gore
novelswithariana's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Young Adult, Crime, Romance
Win Lose Kill Die, written by Cynthia Murphy, takes readers on a thrilling journey within the walls of Morton Academy, a prestigious school for high-achievers. As the race to become the coveted Head Girl reaches its peak, dark secrets and unexpected deaths begin to unravel. In this book review, we will explore the suspenseful plot, well-developed characters, and captivating writing style that makes Win Lose Kill Die a must-read for mystery enthusiasts.
Murphy weaves an intricate web of mystery by introducing readers to a competitive environment where everyone strives to obtain the prestigious title of Head Girl. However, as the bodies pile up, our main characters - Liv, Taylor, Kat, Marcus, and Cole - find themselves embroiled in a quest for truth. The author skillfully maintains a high level of suspense, leaving readers guessing until the very end. Each clue and revelation deepens the intrigue, making it impossible to put the book down.
One of the strengths of Win Lose Kill Die lies in its well-developed characters. Liv, Taylor, Kat, Marcus, and Cole are distinct personalities, each bringing their unique perspectives and motivations to the story. As they strive to uncover the truth, readers become emotionally invested in their journey. Murphy masterfully reveals layers of complexity, humanizing the characters and making them relatable. Their determination to find answers adds an extra layer of tension and keeps readers engaged throughout the narrative.
Murphy's writing style is captivating, immediately drawing readers into the world of Morton Academy. With a perfect balance of description and dialogue, the author creates a vivid setting that comes alive in the imagination. The fast pace and well-crafted plot maintain a sense of urgency, making sure there is never a dull moment. Additionally, the author skillfully explores the dark secrets and hidden agendas that lurk behind the prestigious facade of Morton Academy, immersing readers in a world where nothing is as it seems.
Win Lose Kill Die is a gripping mystery that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. Cynthia Murphy's skillful storytelling, engaging plot, well-developed characters, and captivating writing style make this book a standout in the mystery genre. Fans of suspense and unexpected twists will thoroughly enjoy this thrilling read. I highly recommend Win Lose Kill Die to those seeking an intriguing and memorable journey through the halls of Morton Academy.
People who have read ‘Tag, You're Dead’ (Kathryn Foxfield), ‘This Book Kills’ (Ravena Guron) and ‘Five Survive’ (Holly Jackson) may like this book.
Graphic: Death, Blood, and Murder
Moderate: Mental illness
tabby2920's review
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
Graphic: Murder
Moderate: Mental illness
norwegianforestreader's review
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
Graphic: Mental illness, Self harm, Panic attacks/disorders, Toxic friendship, Child death, Classism, Alcohol, Blood, Body horror, Death, Vomit, Cursing, Grief, Injury/Injury detail, Murder, and Violence
harpygon's review
1.5
But you know, maybe the real pity is that I stayed up till 2 am to finish reading this book (because I was invested), only to now be unable to sleep because I am so disappointed and riled up about the ending of the book.
Graphic: Murder, Blood, and Violence
Moderate: Mental illness
samcsmith's review
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Graphic: Death, Gore, Violence, Blood, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Mental illness and Vomit
clinachrstina's review
4.5
Graphic: Death, Injury/Injury detail, Blood, Body horror, Gaslighting, Murder, and Violence
Moderate: Vomit, Mental illness, Schizophrenia/Psychosis , and Classism