.png)
Five students walk into detention but only four walk out. One of Us is Lying is a mystery book about four students named Addy, Nate, Cooper, Bronwyn who attend Bayview High and are suspected of murdering Simon Kelleher, who was at the time in detention with the four of them. All four students have secrets they would do anything to protect so how far would they go to keep it at that a secret.
McManus masterfully weaves together the narratives of the four main characters: Bronwyn, the brainy Yale-bound student; Cooper, the star athlete hiding a secret; Addy, the picture-perfect homecoming queen with a troubled relationship; and Nate, the bad boy with a turbulent past. Each character is complex and flawed, making them both relatable and intriguing to many.
The plot is intricately plotted, with red herrings and clues scattered throughout, keeping readers guessing until the very end. The pacing is brisk, with short chapters that make it difficult to put the book down. McManus also tackles important themes such as peer pressure, social expectations, and the consequences of actions, adding depth to the story.
What sets "One of Us Is Lying" apart is its character-driven narrative and the way it realistically explores the complexities of high school life. McManus deftly navigates the dynamics of friendship, betrayal, and trust, creating a story that feels both realistic and suspenseful.
As a reader, I thoroughly enjoyed "One of Us Is Lying." The plot twists kept me guessing, and I found myself invested in the lives of the characters. McManus's writing is engaging, and her ability to create tension is impressive. Overall, "One of Us Is Lying" is a must-read for fans of mystery and thriller genres, and I highly recommend it.
4/5
