lexxsavage 's review for:

Girls Who Play Dead by Joelle Wellington

4.0

dark mysterious sad medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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This book grabbed me from the very beginning. There’s something eerie and magnetic about the Vaughn family, and from the jump, I knew there were secrets just waiting to unravel. The story follows Kyla as she’s forced to face the grief, guilt, and chaos left behind after her best friend’s sudden death—and it does not hold back.

Joelle Wellington explores the beauty industry in a dark, intriguing way that reminded me of shows like Savage Beauty—glossy on the surface, but hiding something sinister underneath. The commentary on image, influence, and exploitation felt timely and sharp without ever feeling preachy.

Kyla is a complicated main character. There were moments I sympathized with her and others where I was seriously side-eyeing her choices. The relationships—especially with her brother Mikky—felt raw and real, even when they were messy. And that family tension? Whew. It added so much emotional weight to the story.

With its eerie vibes, layered relationships, and a plot full of secrets, this was a compelling read that had me flipping pages late into the night. If you like your thrillers smart, stylish, and full of secrets, definitely pick this one up.