Dead Fine

Dead Girls #1

by Emma Smith

A young adult mystery novel by Emma Smith, perfect for fans of Cynthia Murphy and Holly Jackson.

"I'm fine," I tell him with a shudder. "Dead fine..."

Lilz and Owen have been together since... forever. Growing up on the same estate has led them here, to their final summer, and they couldn't be more in love. Until Lilz receives a phonecall one day in June. A phonecall which leads to the hiding of a body in Owen's bath.

Lilz will do anything for Owen, even if it means covering up a murder she had nothing to do with. But as the summer continues in a haze of guilt and manipulation, her trust in her boyfriend is tested. She might have grown up with Owen... but does she really know him?

And when loyalties are tested, is love ever enough?

A young adult mystery novel about first love and lies, from the Emma Literary Universe. Suitable for ages 13 and above.

Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Young Adult, Romance, Mystery Thriller

306 pages, Paperback

Published August 3, 2023

About the author

Emma Smith is a young adult and children's author from Yorkshire. She wrote and illustrated her first “book” when she was seven years old and hasn’t stopped writing since. When she’s not walking on the beach or drinking an iced coffee with a crumpet and some chocolate, you’ll probably find her reading something dark and mysterious… and most certainly YA.

Reviews

[sophie]

Murder mystery and a toxic romance and set in Yorkshire which is where I’m from *immediately added to my tbr*

[lynds library · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love AGGTM please read this I’m literally BEGGING.

This is like if AGGTM and a contemporary romance were mixed together. It’s dark, creepy and just straight up weird in some places.

I absolutely ate this up! I think I read it in 3 days which is literally unheard of recently because I’ve been too busy, I literally MADE time for this book.
I cannot wait to read more from Emma and I’m so excited to dive into her other books. :) x

[Milly Neve · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely LOVED this book! The twists hurt my head and the toxic romance hurt my heart, one of my favourite reads of the year.

[Remy Medway · Rating 4 out of 5]

So good!!! This was such a good plot and such a well written book.
The characters were so realistic and I really connected to them all and I love an unreliable narrator and Lilz absolutely killed it.
Such a fun toxic YA murder mystery set in a British northern council estate absolute incredible vibes and the ENDING!!!! Incredible

[Bethany West · Rating 4 out of 5]

Did NOT expect that ending at all. Not 5 stars because I felt some parts were just a bit too cringe and trying to keep on trend and relevant to ‘teens’, but still a really good read!

[Shannon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lilz was stupid, Owen was a dick

[bridget c · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every single time I finish one of Emma Smith's books I am reminded of why I fell in love with this author in the first place. Dead Fine, the latest edition to the ELU (Emma Literary Universe, a phrase that I came up with thank you very much), is no exception. It's the natural progression of Emma's writing. It really pushes the boundaries of the YA genre and as unnerving and at some points downright disturbing as this book could be I just could not put it down. I started reading Dead Fine on a Saturday night and finished reading it on Sunday afternoon, probably setting a record for myself as the fastest I have ever finished a book.

This book is probably the darkest that I've read from Emma. It deals with themes much more mature than Midnight Sherbet and even Guided and it really took me for a ride. This book is a sweaty, shuddering, blood-streaked highlight of Emma's writing abilities, taking the things I loved about her other works and making something that I ADORED.

This book delved into deeper themes than Emma's other books, asking questions and forcing the reader to think about concepts such as first love, emotional manipulation and what actions justify a violent and brutal retaliation. Emma shows you two characters who seem so in love with each other and then perfectly and masterfully tear them apart, showcasing how terrible for each other both of them really were, putting on display the flaws of not knowing about your relationship. Not knowing the person you're with and not knowing anything else.

This book also did a fantastic job of showcasing female friendships with both Lilz's friendship with Loz (who I adore so much), to her developing relationship with Zoe (who I might adore even more). We get to see Lilz blossom with Zoe taking her away from her life with Owen and forcing her to come face to face with the realization that there is more to life than her first love- really showing Lilz that she's stagnant and could be doing so much more. (Also the scene when Loz showed up at Dizzy's party made me want to call my best friends and tell them how much I love them).

To conclude, Dead Fine is... probably Emma's best book. While the cotton candy skies and aquarium dates of Midnight Sherbet made my stone-cold heart oh so happy I think this is what this author is best at. Messy teens in messy situations, teenage relationships and all the drama and emotions that come along with it. Blood, murder and artful explorations of guilt, secrets and despite it all trying to make it out fine... dead fine.

[Francesca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm struggling to put into words how much I loved this book - from the first chapter I was completely hooked, finishing reading in just a few days. Emma Smith is so talented when it comes to creating characters that feel so real that their relationships really make her books come to life. After reading Midnight Sherbet and Guided, I was familiar with her writing style and the setting of these books, but Dead Fine was quite different, while still keeping the fundamentals that make Emma's books so special. Dead Fine is about a murder, a hot british summer, and a seemingly perfect relationship that starts to fall apart.

I loved the graphics added to the paperback version - they really brought the story to life, and were such a nice and well thought-out addition to the book. However, my favourite thing was the ending. I think I still need to take some time to let it sink in, it was so clever, so well-written, and totally unexpected.

This was definitely a 5 star read, and I highly recommend to any fans of YA and murder mystery books!

[Izzy C19 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read 2 of Emma’s books now and they are so good, the plot twists are so good and genuinely shock me, I still can’t get over how it ended. I love how it’s not just a murder mystery like every other book bough because it shows lilz trying to comprehend what’s happened and how to move on, how she needs to pull her life together now, but then she also starts to see what a monster this has turned owen into, my jaw dropped when he was saying that she didn’t have a choice. I’m so glad it worked out for lilz and I loved it so much

[Kiera · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favourite things about Emma’s writing and her stories is how real they feel. This book feels like it could’ve been set where I grew up and that’s something I don’t feel a lot when I’m reading. I also loved how even though it’s a book with the central plot being murder it was never the main focus, the focus is first love and the things we do for people we’ve dedicated our lives to and have grown up with in such an intertwined way that you can’t be separated from them. Emma Smith can do no wrong.

[gelly ༊ · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was so so excited to start reading Emma Smith's books and after this I'm even more excited to read her other books. This book sort of felt like an episode of skins (idk) in a good way? For me, I think the story peaked when Lilz (mc) met a new friend and I also adored her friendship with her bestie Loz. However, I felt the ending was a tiny bit rushed and maybeee I would've liked an epilogue but that's just me being selfish. Can't wait to read midnight sherbet <3 x

[Kenzie Leckie ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I discovered Emma on TikTok and I’m so glad I did! This was a great read and Emma’s writing style is like an art, which makes for beautiful imagery and easy reading. Everything is described in minute detail and almost makes death poetic.
My only reason for losing a star was that there were a few writing errors that kept catching my eye but it didn’t take anything away from the story itself.
Definitely adding more books from this author to my TBR and would HIGHLY recommend given this one a good go as it’s one of the fastest books I’ve read over the last few months after being in a slump.

[Beth Fraser · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book! I’m new to reviewing so I don’t really know what to talk about so i’m going to talk about my opinions on it!

I think Emma Smith is overall an amazing author! The descriptions she wrote about the scenery and especially when Lilz and Owen we’re cleaning the bathroom and hiding the body and when it described the countryside! I thought the overall writing was beautiful 🫶

I thought the chapter names and the images were so clever and added so much imagery to the story! Lilz’s emotions towards Owen were written so well and I definitely felt the anger and betrayal and the love she experienced for him which, in a way, broke my heart 💔

I’m not sure about anyone else but I had to read The Confronting multiple times because the emotions were just 😩 (also highly recommended listening to the the 1997 live version of Silver Springs by Fleetwood Mac whilst reading the second half of the book)

Finally, the plot twists! Until Lilz found the Eyelash- I was completely oblivious to the fact that Owen had been sneaking out to see Kara - despite all the hidden evidence - and I was so mad, thinking that that was the biggest plot twist, that I’d just walked right into it AND THEN BAM!
LILZ CONFESSED (to us) THAT SHE DROWNED JUDY AND I PHYSICALLY HAD TO RE-READ PAGE 333 A MILLION TIMES THEN STARE AT MY WALL TO PROCESS IT ALL. LIKE I NEVER EVER WOULD HAVE GUESSED THAT SHE WOULD DO THAT? 😧

I genuinely loved this book and am so excited to read more of Emma’s writing <3

(Still hate Owen tho x)

[alyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Diving into my third book in the ELU ( emma literary universe ), I was pretty much sure I knew what to expect, but as with any Emma Smith book you’re never exactly sure. This one surprised me, shocked me and honestly I loved every second. This one is my favourite of the bunch. The world building, the creative story line, the writing. It challenges the topic of teen love and how far you would really go to keep that safe.

The characters in this were so well developed compared to the past two books. I am a Lilz protector and supporter till I die, I do not care if that makes me a bad person. Owen was not my favourite, I didn’t particularly like him as person but his character and description was really fun to read. I loved the mentions of all the characters from the past (Matt, Remy, Orla and Macey off the top of my head). If you get the opportunity too, I’d pick this thriller up, we definitely need more rep in the ukya genre and every read helps that!

[Lydia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This is the final book I've read from Emma's backlist and it may be my favourite yet (tied with Martha!!)

I wasn't sure what to expect with this. I knew it was a mystery/coming of age style story but wow. It essentially documents the breakdown of a toxic relationship in the midst of a murder case. Safe to say I was completely hooked throughout and invested in the characters.

One of my favourite parts of this book was Lilz discovering who she is apart from her boyfriend and finding what she likes. I loved her friendship with Loz and Zoe so much!! It felt really nostalgic.

This book captures being in sixth form and on the cusp of change, deciding what your future may look like while also navigating the dramas of your friend group....all with a murder plot.

Loved this so so much!! Emma's writing is amazing and her descriptions and characterisation is so good ❤️

[Randomisreading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emma Smith has done it again, everyone, she’s done it again. This book is so beautiful and twisty and just… ahhhhh!!!
I love how no one is fully good or bad. I was debating with myself for weeks afterwards what I thought about the main characters and whose side I was on and couldn’t come to a conclusion that felt right, and I still haven’t, I don’t think I ever will.
The twist, oh my god. I have never felt so betrayed in my life. My jaw literally dropped and I stared at the page for a solid five minutes trying to process everything and I still haven’t properly processed it to be fair.
The narration style is so unique and really adds to the story, and the betrayal. Like we’re fully involved in the story and the main characters life, only to get stabbed in the back.
Overall, I loved it, it’s perfect. Further solidifying that Emma Smith is one of my favourite authors.

[Alexa_bmn · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Woah. I’ve read all of Emma’s books and this was by far and away her best. Every piece of the plot was intricately linked, every character vividly depicted. I started reading this at 8pm and read through the night because I just couldn’t stop. Without giving anything away, the ending was so unexpected that I kept rereading the last pages because I couldn’t believe what I had read.

Reading this at the end of summer made me reminisce over my own summer and I felt like I was experiencing the summer with the characters.

The print edition also contained many graphics which whilst not essential to the plot added extra an extra element to the story

Please read this!

If you want to read UKYA crime especially set it the north of England this is a must- add to your TBR

[Chloë · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was INSANE!!! dark, twisted, gory, heart-pounding…everything you’d want when you read a blurb like this one.

set in a dingy council estate, a toxic first-love, a hot, sticky summer and a dead body…it’s honestly such a vibe.

Lilz’s character development was really really good, I’ve never felt such anger/hatred/strong emotions towards book characters before!! I was SO conflicted on how I felt about Lilz especially - at some points she’s just not a pleasant person..but at others I felt so badly for her.

It just perfectly encapsulates what it’s like to be a teen in the UK, ESPECIALLY a small town, with the same people, same drama, same teenage problems…and then there’s a body added to the mix. Just SO good!! Will definitely be reading more from Emma ASAP.

[Tegan · Rating 5 out of 5]

May contain spoilers
This book weaves a gripping tale showcasing first love and deception. Emma perfectly narrates Lilz and Owen's seemingly idyllic relationship takes a dark turn when a chilling phone call leads to the concealment of a body by delving into themes of guilt, manipulation, and trust, questioning the depth of Lilz's connection with Owen. She portrays manipulation and guilt through nuanced character dynamics and psychological tension, with Lilz's internal struggles and conflicting emotions as she grapples with the aftermath of the murder create a palpable sense of unease.
Emma crafted this book that keeps readers on the edge, blending elements of romance and mystery which resulting me finishing this book within 2 days. Would recommend for fans of Holly Jackson

[Marisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read!!

I'm surprised this doesn't have more reviews/ratings because it's an instant favourite from me. Unfortunately my highlights/notes won't sync up from my Kindle but anyway:

This book had me hooked, I finished it within 12 hours (unfortunately had to sleep) and I feel like I need more! It was so good, the characters were so well developed and the plot was just *chefs kiss*

The ending was unexpected but 10/10, Emma Smith is such a great writer and I can't wait for her to release more books!

[Cris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emma does it again with another ELU masterpiece, but this is different. It's darker and so vivid and very much suits the cover (I'll warn you now so you don't make my mistake - don't read this during meals). There's blood and murder and fantastic characters that slowly unravel and leave you unable to stop reading. And just when I thought I knew them, the truth I thought I had figured out is flipped on its head. I can't recommend it enough.

[Immi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve loved all of Emma’s books so far, and this was no exception. Thrillers/mysteries are some of my favourite genres, so when she published this I was very eager to read. It didn’t disappoint! I feel like this was written amazingly, both the plot and the writing style. The ending left me staring at the ceiling for ages (like any good book) and I might reread it again now I know it. Overall this was an amazing book, and you should definitely write another like this! <33

[shauna &#x1faf6;&#x1f3fb; · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my god when I say this book to me on a wild ride 🫣 this was spectacular and so well written I genuinely am still absolutely shook over what I read

This was so much darker than I thought it would be! Absolutely brutal and most of the time my mouth was left wide open thinking what the actual fuck???

I couldn’t get enough of this, absolutely sensational - one of the best thrillers I have read 🙌🏻

[sana · Rating 5 out of 5]

hazy, bloody summer. dark first love. a body in the bath. is there anything more you could want from a dark summer murder mystery? probably my favourite ELU book (watch me say this about them all), lilz’s story is so captivating and easy to get obsessed with. it’s the perfect late summer read with murder and toxic relationships and did i mention a body in the bath!! but it’s all fine, dead fine…

[via green · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully written book all about a murder, toxic relationship and finding out what really happened that June night. Emma Smith is truly an amazing young author who has a bright future ahead of her, couldn’t recommend this book enough.
Guided and Midnight sherbet are waiting on my shelf to be read next!!!

[Elisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

THIS BOOK IS INCREDIBLE! I got it for Christmas and read it by the end of the day I just couldn't put it down. The characters are relatable and what my favourite part is that no character is entirely perfect. The LGBTQ representation too is wonderful just as much. I love the murder mystery twist at the end that brings the case together. I think I'm a lilz defender forever!

[Olivia · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first read of the year, and I could not put it down! It truly shows all the highs and lows of having your first love so young and the toxicity that can occur. It was a beautifully written book. As I read more and more, I felt like I truly knew Lily, until, of course, the twist at the end absolutely shocked me. If you’re going to read one book this year, let it be this.

[rhiann ✧ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dead Fine, where do I begin??? Absolutely bloody incredible. A Yorkshire injected crime/mystery which kept me on the edge of my seat. The constant conflicting thoughts of if we trust the main character or not was leaving me second guessing all my thoughts and assumptions. Emma Smith, your writing is phenomenal and I can’t wait to see your journey! 🤍

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down. I think this is the first book in a long time that I was gripped to, every chapter just pulled you in more.
And then the twist at the very end was something I did not expect. Definitely a read I would recommend.

[Keelin · Rating 5 out of 5]

To say that my jaw was ON THE FLOOR for the last chapters is an absolute understatement HOLY SHIT. I’m obsessed with this book and I 100% did not see that plot twist coming. My friends just got spammed with videos of me reacting to that ending LMFAO, definitely my favourite Emma Smith book for sure