A review by wildeenthusiast
One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus

tense fast-paced

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

2.0

I think that the characters aren’t traumatized enough. Hear me out, as someone who has gone through something “similar” (being on the news because of something tragic) I would NEVER look up or willingly watch news about the case. They have basically witnessed the death of their classmate, it would have affected them mentally whether they liked Simon or not but it seems like it doesn’t faze them. Their worries revolve around normal high school drama plus an occasional questioning at the police station, or at least it’s what it felt like to me. It would’ve been interesting to explore how Simon’s death ACTUALLY affected them mentally, how being questioned makes them really feel. It was a good book, don’t get me wrong, I just feel like we need more accurate representation of trauma revolving witnessing the death of someone you know.