The Good Girls by Claire Eliza Bartlett is a thrilling novel that follows the mysterious murder of a well-liked cheerleader, Emma Baines. The story delves into the lives of three suspects - the party girl, the head cheerleader, and the academic ice queen - each holding secrets that could unravel their small town. Through a non-traditional narrative style, including police interviews, diary entries, and text conversations, the novel weaves together a complex investigation that challenges stereotypes and reveals the true complexity of the characters involved.

The book is a suspenseful and engaging read that keeps readers guessing as they uncover the layers of deception and secrets hidden within the small town. With well-developed characters and a satisfying conclusion, The Good Girls offers a unique take on the thriller genre, exploring larger themes about how society categorizes and views young women, ultimately highlighting the complexity and depth of each character's identity.

Characters:

The characters are complex and flawed, embodying various stereotypes while offering in-depth perspectives that contribute to the narrative.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is diverse and fluid, employing multiple narrative forms to create an engaging atmosphere while addressing significant social issues.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative features a suspenseful plot that delves into complex themes regarding young women's identities, presenting a satisfying yet open-ended conclusion that prompts further reflection.

Setting:

The setting is a small town that contributes to the narrative's dark atmosphere and highlights social dynamics impacting the characters.

Pacing:

The pacing is effective, keeping the tension high and the readers engaged with a steady rhythm and multiple plot twists.

Notes:

The story is a suspense thriller that explores themes of identity and societal expectations for young women.

It is narrated through various formats including police interviews, diary entries, and text conversations.

The main characters are Claude, Avery, Gwen, and Emma, with a murder mystery at its core.

Emma Baines, a well-liked cheerleader, is murdered, prompting an investigation with three main suspects.

The book challenges stereotypes of young women and emphasizes their complexity as characters.

Despite being suspenseful, the narrative also addresses heavier issues such as sexism and objectification.

The girls in the novel are portrayed as flawed and often act as unreliable narrators.

The ending ties up most loose ends but leaves some questions about character relationships unanswered.

The book highlights the ongoing injustices women face, reflecting contemporary issues like the MeToo movement.

It has been described as enjoyable and innovative within the YA thriller genre and has a mix of plot twists, though some readers found it predictable.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Triggers include violence, suicide, and themes of assault.

From The Publisher:

One of Us Is Lying meets Sadie in this twisty, feminist thriller for the Me Too era.

The troublemaker. The overachiever. The cheer captain. The dead girl. Like every high school in America, Jefferson-Lorne High contains all of the above.

After the shocking murder of senior Emma Baines, three of her classmates are at the top of the suspect list: Claude, the notorious partier; Avery, the head cheerleader; and Gwen, the would-be valedictorian.

But appearances are never what they seem. And the truth behind what really happened to Emma may just be lying in plain sight. As long buried secrets come to light, the clock is ticking to find Emma's killer-before another good girl goes down.

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The Good Girls

Claire Eliza Bartlett