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Beth Is Dead
Three starred reviews!
Beth March’s sisters will stop at nothing to track down her killer—until they begin to suspect each other—in this “brilliantly snappy…electrifying” (Publishers Weekly, starred review) debut thriller that’s also a bold, contemporary reimagining of the beloved classic Little Women.
When Beth March is found dead in the woods on New Year’s Day, her sisters vow to uncover her murderer.
Suspects abound. There’s the neighbor who has feelings for not one but two of the girls. Meg’s manipulative best friend. Amy’s flirtatious mentor. And Beth’s lionhearted first love. But it doesn’t take the surviving sisters much digging to uncover motives each one of the March girls had for doing the unthinkable.
Jo, an aspiring author with a huge following on social media, would do anything to hook readers. Would she kill her sister for the story? Amy dreams of studying art in Europe, but she’ll need money from her aunt—money that’s always been earmarked for Beth. And Meg wouldn’t dream of hurting her sister…but her boyfriend might have, and she’ll protect him at all costs.
Despite the growing suspicion within the family, it’s hard to know for sure if the crime was committed by someone close to home. After all, the March sisters were dragged into the spotlight months ago when their father published a controversial bestseller about his own daughters. Beth could have been killed by anyone.
Beth’s perspective told in flashback unfolds next to Meg, Jo, and Amy’s increasingly fraught investigation as the tragedy threatens to rip the Marches apart.
Beth March’s sisters will stop at nothing to track down her killer—until they begin to suspect each other—in this “brilliantly snappy…electrifying” (Publishers Weekly, starred review) debut thriller that’s also a bold, contemporary reimagining of the beloved classic Little Women.
When Beth March is found dead in the woods on New Year’s Day, her sisters vow to uncover her murderer.
Suspects abound. There’s the neighbor who has feelings for not one but two of the girls. Meg’s manipulative best friend. Amy’s flirtatious mentor. And Beth’s lionhearted first love. But it doesn’t take the surviving sisters much digging to uncover motives each one of the March girls had for doing the unthinkable.
Jo, an aspiring author with a huge following on social media, would do anything to hook readers. Would she kill her sister for the story? Amy dreams of studying art in Europe, but she’ll need money from her aunt—money that’s always been earmarked for Beth. And Meg wouldn’t dream of hurting her sister…but her boyfriend might have, and she’ll protect him at all costs.
Despite the growing suspicion within the family, it’s hard to know for sure if the crime was committed by someone close to home. After all, the March sisters were dragged into the spotlight months ago when their father published a controversial bestseller about his own daughters. Beth could have been killed by anyone.
Beth’s perspective told in flashback unfolds next to Meg, Jo, and Amy’s increasingly fraught investigation as the tragedy threatens to rip the Marches apart.
Audible Audio
First published January 6, 2026
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About the author
Katie Bernet
2 books72 followersKatie Bernet is an author living in Dallas, Texas. She’s an award-winning creative director, a long-standing member of the DFW Writer’s Workshop, and the director of the 2025 DFW Writer’s Conference. The oldest of three sisters, she’s a diehard fan of "Little Women."
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January 6, 2026
જ⁀➴ 4 stars
Thank you to Simon & Schuster, Katie Bernet, and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. Beth is Dead is out now!
₊✩‧₊˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊
This was a refreshing, modern take on Little Women, but with a deadly twist! This book was a wild ride from start to finish, and I'm genuinely shocked that this was a debut. I can't believe I'm saying this, but I can't believe a YA thriller was the most recent thriller I've read that has kept me on my toes. Did I find the ending a bit predictable? Yes, and I don't think I can shut my brain off from trying to put all the pieces together to find out what actually happened while I'm reading a thriller at this point, but there were so many twists and turns that I feel like this'll have many readers second-guessing themselves until the very last page.
✎𓂃Full review to come soon!
₊✩‧₊˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊
⋅˚₊‧ ୨ 𝒫𝓇𝑒-𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹: ୧ ‧₊˚ ⋅ Book 3/75 of 2026 and guess what…it’s another ARC! I’ve strayed away from thrillers in the second half of 2025 because I felt like I was guessing the ending to them correctly way more than I felt like I should’ve, but I want to try to get back into them this year! I think a modern retelling of Little Women would be super cool to read so here’s hoping it delivers🤞🏼🍀💌
Thank you to Simon & Schuster, Katie Bernet, and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. Beth is Dead is out now!
₊✩‧₊˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊
This was a refreshing, modern take on Little Women, but with a deadly twist! This book was a wild ride from start to finish, and I'm genuinely shocked that this was a debut. I can't believe I'm saying this, but I can't believe a YA thriller was the most recent thriller I've read that has kept me on my toes. Did I find the ending a bit predictable? Yes, and I don't think I can shut my brain off from trying to put all the pieces together to find out what actually happened while I'm reading a thriller at this point, but there were so many twists and turns that I feel like this'll have many readers second-guessing themselves until the very last page.
✎𓂃Full review to come soon!
₊✩‧₊˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊ ˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊
⋅˚₊‧ ୨ 𝒫𝓇𝑒-𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹: ୧ ‧₊˚ ⋅ Book 3/75 of 2026 and guess what…it’s another ARC! I’ve strayed away from thrillers in the second half of 2025 because I felt like I was guessing the ending to them correctly way more than I felt like I should’ve, but I want to try to get back into them this year! I think a modern retelling of Little Women would be super cool to read so here’s hoping it delivers🤞🏼🍀💌
December 20, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
When Beth March is found dead on New Year’s Day, everyone who has ever known her is a suspect. The March sisters scramble to find out who killed their sister, finding new leads that always lead to dead ends. But each of the sisters is hiding a secret that involves Beth–would Meg, Amy, or Jo ever stoop to murdering their sister? They can’t trust anyone as they search for the truth of what happened that fateful night.
Beth has and always will be my favorite March sister from Little Women. I relate to her so much, like it’s not even funny how similar we are, and I’m not saying that to toot my own horn. 😂 So when I saw my GR friend, DianaRose, recommended this book, I knew I had to read it not only for the cover (because look at it, it's stunning) but because I love a good mystery. And when my request was accepted, I was over the moon because I just had to know who would be low enough to kill Beth.
And, ladies and gentlemen, this one got me. I did not know who it was, and I was shocked yet not completely taken aback by who killed Beth. But still, like ho-ly cow, I was not expecting that! 😱 I hang up my title of being able to sniff out a suspect because I could not guess who it was for the life of me. I mean, I had my suspicions, but no, there’s no way around the fact that I was wrong. 😂
I really, really enjoyed this book. I loved the similarities and differences between this story and Little Women (which happens to be one of my favorite books of all time). The plot kept me guessing and intrigued the whole way through. The writing was easy to read yet wonderfully descriptive, and the dialogue flowed well, reminding me of Greta Gerwig’s film adaptation of the novel. The only thing that I didn’t really like and made me take away half a star was the sisters. I thought they were really selfish (especially Amy. She pissed me off so much 🙄) and annoyed me most of the time, but hey, humans are selfish, and they weren't horrible sisters, so I’ll cut them some slack. 😏
Overall, I recommend this book, especially if you love fun mysteries, a quick read, and the world of Little Women. I will say, though, that if you are not into YA, this might not be for you because the dialogue and writing have that tone. Just a heads up. ☺🫶🏼
Thank you to Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing and NetGalley for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review! All opinions and statements are my own.
❗Content Warnings❗
Death, murder, blood, and an adult male making advances at teen girls.
Swearing: Yes
Spice: No–only kissing and mentioning hooking up. (🌶/5)
#BethisDeadBook #NetGalley
When Beth March is found dead on New Year’s Day, everyone who has ever known her is a suspect. The March sisters scramble to find out who killed their sister, finding new leads that always lead to dead ends. But each of the sisters is hiding a secret that involves Beth–would Meg, Amy, or Jo ever stoop to murdering their sister? They can’t trust anyone as they search for the truth of what happened that fateful night.
Beth has and always will be my favorite March sister from Little Women. I relate to her so much, like it’s not even funny how similar we are, and I’m not saying that to toot my own horn. 😂 So when I saw my GR friend, DianaRose, recommended this book, I knew I had to read it not only for the cover (because look at it, it's stunning) but because I love a good mystery. And when my request was accepted, I was over the moon because I just had to know who would be low enough to kill Beth.
And, ladies and gentlemen, this one got me. I did not know who it was, and I was shocked yet not completely taken aback by who killed Beth. But still, like ho-ly cow, I was not expecting that! 😱 I hang up my title of being able to sniff out a suspect because I could not guess who it was for the life of me. I mean, I had my suspicions, but no, there’s no way around the fact that I was wrong. 😂
I really, really enjoyed this book. I loved the similarities and differences between this story and Little Women (which happens to be one of my favorite books of all time). The plot kept me guessing and intrigued the whole way through. The writing was easy to read yet wonderfully descriptive, and the dialogue flowed well, reminding me of Greta Gerwig’s film adaptation of the novel. The only thing that I didn’t really like and made me take away half a star was the sisters. I thought they were really selfish (especially Amy. She pissed me off so much 🙄) and annoyed me most of the time, but hey, humans are selfish, and they weren't horrible sisters, so I’ll cut them some slack. 😏
Overall, I recommend this book, especially if you love fun mysteries, a quick read, and the world of Little Women. I will say, though, that if you are not into YA, this might not be for you because the dialogue and writing have that tone. Just a heads up. ☺🫶🏼
Thank you to Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing and NetGalley for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review! All opinions and statements are my own.
❗Content Warnings❗
Death, murder, blood, and an adult male making advances at teen girls.
Swearing: Yes
Spice: No–only kissing and mentioning hooking up. (🌶/5)
#BethisDeadBook #NetGalley
December 21, 2025
a favorite read of 2025🩵
beth is dead is my new favorite ya reimaginings of one of the most beloved (and MY most beloved) classics — little women.
beth is dead completely stole my heart, and our author katie bernet does a phenomenal job of expanding the characters of all four march sisters in a contemporary setting that pays homage to their mannerisms from the original novel.
and for our murder mystery plot?! — i truly could not figure out who the killer was! i was on the edge of my seat the entire time.
not to mention that cover is to DIE for👀
beth is dead is my new favorite ya reimaginings of one of the most beloved (and MY most beloved) classics — little women.
beth is dead completely stole my heart, and our author katie bernet does a phenomenal job of expanding the characters of all four march sisters in a contemporary setting that pays homage to their mannerisms from the original novel.
and for our murder mystery plot?! — i truly could not figure out who the killer was! i was on the edge of my seat the entire time.
not to mention that cover is to DIE for👀
January 7, 2026
Did you love Little Women with your heart, body, and soul? Well, I’ve got just the book for you to read. You see, Beth Is Dead was an astounding reimagining of the March sisters’ story—only set in the modern world. Starting off with a bang when Beth ends up…well…dead, this YA tale of metafiction was an edge-of-your-seat read from beginning to end. With natural dialogue, complex characters, and plenty of well-layered mysteries to mess with your head, it was impossible to guess who the killer actually was. After all, with a narration that was told from all four sisters’ POVs over dual timelines, the story took on a life of its own and I found myself glued to the twist-filled pages. None of that, though, was even the strongest piece to this epic debut of toxic friendships, devious gaslighting, and delicious dark secrets.
So what was the best part of this book? That had to be how it brought the March sisters to life in modern times. Maintaining the feel that they had in the classic but giving them themes to contend with from our current world, it was awe-inspiring to say the least. Exploring feminism, social pressure, and exploitation through their father’s novel, it was not only immensely entertaining but also thought-provoking as well. Add in how nuanced it all felt, and you have an utter slam dunk. A murder mystery for anyone who loves a little—or a lot—of suspense along with their classic retellings, it was everything I look for in a dynamite read. After all, between the fast pace and twisty plotting, the short, addictive chapters made this into a book perfect for both new and old fans of the Marchs. Rating of 4.5 stars (upgraded).
SYNOPSIS:
When Beth March is found dead in the woods on New Year’s Day, her sisters vow to uncover her murderer.
Suspects abound. There’s the neighbor who has feelings for not one but two of the girls. Meg’s manipulative best friend. Amy’s flirtatious mentor. And Beth’s lionhearted first love. But it doesn’t take the surviving sisters much digging to uncover motives each one of the March girls had for doing the unthinkable.
Jo, an aspiring author with a huge following on social media, would do anything to hook readers. Would she kill her sister for the story? Amy dreams of studying art in Europe, but she’ll need money from her aunt—money that’s always been earmarked for Beth. And Meg wouldn’t dream of hurting her sister…but her boyfriend might have, and she’ll protect him at all costs.
Despite the growing suspicion within the family, it’s hard to know for sure if the crime was committed by someone close to home. After all, the March sisters were dragged into the spotlight months ago when their father published a controversial bestseller about his own daughters. Beth could have been killed by anyone.
Thank you to Katie Bernet, Sara Barley Books, and Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: January 6, 2026
Content warning: murder, toxic friendship, physical abuse, stalking, gaslighting, blood, addiction, rape, sexual content
So what was the best part of this book? That had to be how it brought the March sisters to life in modern times. Maintaining the feel that they had in the classic but giving them themes to contend with from our current world, it was awe-inspiring to say the least. Exploring feminism, social pressure, and exploitation through their father’s novel, it was not only immensely entertaining but also thought-provoking as well. Add in how nuanced it all felt, and you have an utter slam dunk. A murder mystery for anyone who loves a little—or a lot—of suspense along with their classic retellings, it was everything I look for in a dynamite read. After all, between the fast pace and twisty plotting, the short, addictive chapters made this into a book perfect for both new and old fans of the Marchs. Rating of 4.5 stars (upgraded).
SYNOPSIS:
When Beth March is found dead in the woods on New Year’s Day, her sisters vow to uncover her murderer.
Suspects abound. There’s the neighbor who has feelings for not one but two of the girls. Meg’s manipulative best friend. Amy’s flirtatious mentor. And Beth’s lionhearted first love. But it doesn’t take the surviving sisters much digging to uncover motives each one of the March girls had for doing the unthinkable.
Jo, an aspiring author with a huge following on social media, would do anything to hook readers. Would she kill her sister for the story? Amy dreams of studying art in Europe, but she’ll need money from her aunt—money that’s always been earmarked for Beth. And Meg wouldn’t dream of hurting her sister…but her boyfriend might have, and she’ll protect him at all costs.
Despite the growing suspicion within the family, it’s hard to know for sure if the crime was committed by someone close to home. After all, the March sisters were dragged into the spotlight months ago when their father published a controversial bestseller about his own daughters. Beth could have been killed by anyone.
Thank you to Katie Bernet, Sara Barley Books, and Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: January 6, 2026
Content warning: murder, toxic friendship, physical abuse, stalking, gaslighting, blood, addiction, rape, sexual content
January 2, 2026
I really enjoyed this book! The audio book was incredible with all the different actors. The story was good, the twist and turns were good. I did predict the ending but how it all played out was really good!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I'm so happy I decided to go with the audio for this one. The full cast narration was excellent and so entertaining. Each character was perfectly portrayed. This is a reimagining of Little Woman. Beth March is found dead in the woods on New Year's Day and her sisters vow to solve her murder. There are many people that they suspect, but then…..they all start to suspect each other. They each could have a reason to have wanted Beth dead. These characters can be unlikable, but this plot had me guessing until the end. This was such a fun YA debut and I was really into it. Definitely recommend it if you enjoy YA thrillers.
Thank you to the publisher and librofm for the gifted book and Audiobook. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher and librofm for the gifted book and Audiobook. All opinions are my own.
December 28, 2025
Such a “fun” read for fans of Little Women, and a solid mystery/thriller for those who are unfamiliar with Louisa May Alcott’s classic tale. It’s funny and heartfelt with convincing moments of intensity during arguments between the sisters and other situations. The characters felt vibrant and alive as they struggled with coming-of-age issues and trying to solve Beth’s murder. Bernet does a wonderful job of honoring Alcott's story and characters while re-creating the March sisters for a modern audience. YA but an engaging read for all adults.
October 20, 2025
Thank you SimonTeen for the eARC. I’m a huge Little Women fan so when I saw this I absolutely had to read it. I loved the way characters from LW are included in different ways. Bringing the story to modern times was also so fun. The mystery was great, it had me going in all different directions thinking I had it solved so many times.
Justice for Beth!
Justice for Beth!
did-not-finish
December 13, 2025The fact that this is a YA novel and already in the first few chapters multiple characters have talked about their alcohol consumption and have dropped profanity, including the F word, means this is not going to be a book I can recommend.
January 6, 2026
oh how I do love me a retelling, and Little Women? my favourite classic and Greta Gerwig film ever? yes x10 million please
this was so fun and silly, i loved the idea of rewriting a classic to fit the 21st century, and it worked so well. I found the writing to be quite simple - but I mean it’s YA so what else is there to be expected. And I did guess the twists but it truly hooked me from the first page to the last.
my only criticism is that the characters didn’t ring 100% true, there could’ve been more depth and Amy was HORRIBLE ??! I felt like Mr March was done so dirty too !! that poor man
Beth, I’m sad you died in all three (Mr March’s edition of Little Women included) books. you are and will always be the people’s favourite March sister
huge huge thank you to NetGalley and Scholastic UK for a copy of this eARC in exchange for an honest review
this book will be released on 15th Jan and I implore you to read it!!
this was so fun and silly, i loved the idea of rewriting a classic to fit the 21st century, and it worked so well. I found the writing to be quite simple - but I mean it’s YA so what else is there to be expected. And I did guess the twists but it truly hooked me from the first page to the last.
my only criticism is that the characters didn’t ring 100% true, there could’ve been more depth and Amy was HORRIBLE ??! I felt like Mr March was done so dirty too !! that poor man
Beth, I’m sad you died in all three (Mr March’s edition of Little Women included) books. you are and will always be the people’s favourite March sister
huge huge thank you to NetGalley and Scholastic UK for a copy of this eARC in exchange for an honest review
this book will be released on 15th Jan and I implore you to read it!!
December 30, 2025
Beth is Dead by Katie Bernet
Thoughts: Beth Is Dead is most anticipated read for 2026, and it did not disappoint. I loved this reimagining of Little Women, and Katie did a fantastic job bringing each character to life. I was gripped from the very first chapter, and every time I thought I had the killer figured out, I was completely wrong. The twisty plot kept me guessing, while the parallels to the original Little Women added an extra layer of enjoyment. This was a clever, character driven YA mystery thriller that I highly recommend it to lovers of classic retellings with a twist.
Publication Date: 6th January 2026
Thank you Penguin Australia and NetGalley for the gifted eARC of Beth Is Dead in exchange for an honest review!
Synopsis: Beth March has been murdered, and all her sisters are suspects . . .
After a New Year’s Eve party, Beth is found dead.
All the March sisters wonder who could have killed their sweet little sister. And – why?
The March sisters have always been close, but will Beth’s murder bring them closer together, or tear them apart?
As each of the girls’ motives are uncovered, it becomes clear that Meg, Jo, Amy – and even Beth – might not be quite as sweet as they seem
Please check the content/trigger warnings prior to reading this book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Thoughts: Beth Is Dead is most anticipated read for 2026, and it did not disappoint. I loved this reimagining of Little Women, and Katie did a fantastic job bringing each character to life. I was gripped from the very first chapter, and every time I thought I had the killer figured out, I was completely wrong. The twisty plot kept me guessing, while the parallels to the original Little Women added an extra layer of enjoyment. This was a clever, character driven YA mystery thriller that I highly recommend it to lovers of classic retellings with a twist.
Publication Date: 6th January 2026
Thank you Penguin Australia and NetGalley for the gifted eARC of Beth Is Dead in exchange for an honest review!
Synopsis: Beth March has been murdered, and all her sisters are suspects . . .
After a New Year’s Eve party, Beth is found dead.
All the March sisters wonder who could have killed their sweet little sister. And – why?
The March sisters have always been close, but will Beth’s murder bring them closer together, or tear them apart?
As each of the girls’ motives are uncovered, it becomes clear that Meg, Jo, Amy – and even Beth – might not be quite as sweet as they seem
Please check the content/trigger warnings prior to reading this book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
December 13, 2025
Such a good YA mystery book, I devoured this one! I was so intrigued by the concept of a Little Women reimagining and this was such a cool take on the story. In this book, Beth dies at the start of the book and her sisters are all trying to figure out what happened to her. It was fast paced and had me doubting all of the characters - kept me on my toes right till the end. Such a good book to binge or to pull you out of a slump!
Thank you so much to Penguin for the gifted advanced reader copy!
Thank you so much to Penguin for the gifted advanced reader copy!
Read
January 6, 2026⭐️4.5 Stars⭐️
Beth Is Dead by Katie Bernet is a modern day reimagining of the classic Little Women and I ate it up! I didn’t know what to expect but it didn’t disappoint and it held me gripped throughout. What a debut!
This was a suspenseful who done it YA thriller that is full of sibling vulnerability and rivalry. I found it enjoyable and highly entertaining. The plot is twisty and clever.
Sweet Beth March is killed off in the first chapter. The sisters vow to find Beth’s murderer, they are all suspects! I loved the sister’s characters, Amy, Meg and Jo who will stop at nothing to find her killer. Fans of the classic will fall in love with this creative modern day twist.
Highly recommended read.
Publication Date 06 January 2026
Publisher Penguin
Thank you so much Penguin Books Ausralia & Penguin Teen Australia for a copy of the book and promo pack.
Beth Is Dead by Katie Bernet is a modern day reimagining of the classic Little Women and I ate it up! I didn’t know what to expect but it didn’t disappoint and it held me gripped throughout. What a debut!
This was a suspenseful who done it YA thriller that is full of sibling vulnerability and rivalry. I found it enjoyable and highly entertaining. The plot is twisty and clever.
Sweet Beth March is killed off in the first chapter. The sisters vow to find Beth’s murderer, they are all suspects! I loved the sister’s characters, Amy, Meg and Jo who will stop at nothing to find her killer. Fans of the classic will fall in love with this creative modern day twist.
Highly recommended read.
Publication Date 06 January 2026
Publisher Penguin
Thank you so much Penguin Books Ausralia & Penguin Teen Australia for a copy of the book and promo pack.
November 10, 2025
✨ARC REVIEW✨
If you’re a fan of Little Women and murder mysteries, you’re gonna love this.
I really enjoyed the concept of this book. I loved the callbacks from the OG and I really liked all the plot twists.
Personally, I was getting a tad confused between all the flashbacks and POVs. I think that’s where most of this lost me a bit. I feel like if we didn’t have the same names as the original Little Women, I wouldn’t be trying so hard to connect the two stories while also trying to figure out whodunnit.
I also felt like because we get a POV from each sister, their personalities were starting to blend a little and it was getting hard for me to tell them a part. Maybe this was a me thing? I don’t know.
I do think for a debut, this was done super well. It had enough suspense to keep me interested and I really did like how this ended. I liked that each new clue led to a flashback that gave us more insight.
Again, if you’re an OG fan then you’ll appreciate this. If you’re a murder mystery fan, you’ll like the twists and turns.
Thank you so much to Simon Teen for the e-arc copy!
If you’re a fan of Little Women and murder mysteries, you’re gonna love this.
I really enjoyed the concept of this book. I loved the callbacks from the OG and I really liked all the plot twists.
Personally, I was getting a tad confused between all the flashbacks and POVs. I think that’s where most of this lost me a bit. I feel like if we didn’t have the same names as the original Little Women, I wouldn’t be trying so hard to connect the two stories while also trying to figure out whodunnit.
I also felt like because we get a POV from each sister, their personalities were starting to blend a little and it was getting hard for me to tell them a part. Maybe this was a me thing? I don’t know.
I do think for a debut, this was done super well. It had enough suspense to keep me interested and I really did like how this ended. I liked that each new clue led to a flashback that gave us more insight.
Again, if you’re an OG fan then you’ll appreciate this. If you’re a murder mystery fan, you’ll like the twists and turns.
Thank you so much to Simon Teen for the e-arc copy!
August 20, 2025
I’ve been in a reading slump for months, but this book shoved me forcefully out of it. It’s the kind of fast paced mystery that I simply cannot put down, because I just NEED TO KNOW WHO DONE IT. Well, now I know, and I really didn’t see it coming.
I haven’t read the original Little Women, but found this book enjoyable all the same. It’s takes on art, family, cancel culture, and parasocial relationships hit me pretty hard- it was one of those moments where I finally saw some of my own thoughts and feelings put into words.
If I’m super honest, I decided to pick up this ARC because I really liked the cover… this was a very good decision.
I’d highly recommend this book to lovers of mysteries, family dramas, and those in desperate need of a quick read to pull them out of a slump.
I haven’t read the original Little Women, but found this book enjoyable all the same. It’s takes on art, family, cancel culture, and parasocial relationships hit me pretty hard- it was one of those moments where I finally saw some of my own thoughts and feelings put into words.
If I’m super honest, I decided to pick up this ARC because I really liked the cover… this was a very good decision.
I’d highly recommend this book to lovers of mysteries, family dramas, and those in desperate need of a quick read to pull them out of a slump.
September 21, 2025
RATING: 4/5 STARS
A very creative reimagining of LITTLE WOMEN! This YA thriller adapts the classic in a unique way. I felt the dialogue flowed well (akin to the Greta Gerwig movie) and the plot kept me on my toes. Audiences both new to and familiar with the source material will find something in this book to enjoy.
A very creative reimagining of LITTLE WOMEN! This YA thriller adapts the classic in a unique way. I felt the dialogue flowed well (akin to the Greta Gerwig movie) and the plot kept me on my toes. Audiences both new to and familiar with the source material will find something in this book to enjoy.
January 6, 2026
Beth March, yes of Little Women, is murdered and her sisters try to figure out what happens to her while playing the blame game against each other a lot of the time.
I'll start with a positive. I thought the core four March sisters felt pretty true to themselves from Little Women and I could see the things that I love about each of them and make them special. I also liked that there were some moments that were callbacks to the book, like burning Jo's manuscript and mentions of the plays they'd put on.
Now for the negative. This book really frustrated me. It wasn't fun to follow because the girls were very obviously amateur detectives and they were blaming everyone in sight, including each other, with little to no evidence to go on. They were just looking for someone to point fingers at. Especially Jo.
I didn't know who the killer was for most of the book, so I will give it some props for that. But in hindsight it actually feels pretty obvious and like I should've sent it coming from a mile away. The mystery of what happened to their dad as well. It should've been obvious.
I will add I also wasn't the biggest fan of the way their parents were written. I understand some things need to be changed for a retelling but in this form they didn't feel all that nice or loving to the girls and that's a very polar opposite contrast.
Thank you to Simon and Schuster and NetGalley for the ARC to honestly review.
I'll start with a positive. I thought the core four March sisters felt pretty true to themselves from Little Women and I could see the things that I love about each of them and make them special. I also liked that there were some moments that were callbacks to the book, like burning Jo's manuscript and mentions of the plays they'd put on.
Now for the negative. This book really frustrated me. It wasn't fun to follow because the girls were very obviously amateur detectives and they were blaming everyone in sight, including each other, with little to no evidence to go on. They were just looking for someone to point fingers at. Especially Jo.
I didn't know who the killer was for most of the book, so I will give it some props for that. But in hindsight it actually feels pretty obvious and like I should've sent it coming from a mile away. The mystery of what happened to their dad as well. It should've been obvious.
I will add I also wasn't the biggest fan of the way their parents were written. I understand some things need to be changed for a retelling but in this form they didn't feel all that nice or loving to the girls and that's a very polar opposite contrast.
Thank you to Simon and Schuster and NetGalley for the ARC to honestly review.
December 30, 2025
I had so much fun with this one!! It was so incredibly fast paced, we got all of the Bennet sister’s POVs which really added to the tension and the drama!!! I was constantly second guessing myself.
Each chapter was so well thought out and planned, it all flowed so well!! Usually I hate flashback chapters but it was so well done here, and it made it impossible to put down!
Anddd we don’t find out who the killer is until the very end!!! Sometimes you can tell halfway through, but I really couldn’t! I had some suspicions but they kept getting ruled out!
Thank you Penguin Teen for the ARC, I had the best time reading this one!
Each chapter was so well thought out and planned, it all flowed so well!! Usually I hate flashback chapters but it was so well done here, and it made it impossible to put down!
Anddd we don’t find out who the killer is until the very end!!! Sometimes you can tell halfway through, but I really couldn’t! I had some suspicions but they kept getting ruled out!
Thank you Penguin Teen for the ARC, I had the best time reading this one!
November 18, 2025
Wow. I am well and truly gagged. This was such a beautiful reimagining of the March sisters’ story. I was sucked in by the fast-paced mystery but stayed for the heartfelt portrayals of grief, love, and searching for purpose in one’s life. I saw myself in every sister the same way I do in Alcott’s original story, with their flaws and all. I also came away with a new appreciation for Beth and feel like I relate to her most of all - not something I ever hear people say about Little Women. (I’m boarding a plane so gonna finish this review later)
December 26, 2025
I really enjoyed this mystery and reimagining of Little Women. I was hooked immediately and flew through this book quite easily. There were so many twists and turns, however, I found that I could easily determine how Beth died before I got to the end. In saying that, there were other twists that still had me hooked in.
October 16, 2025
review to come 💌 thank you publishers and netgalley for the arc!
January 1, 2026
What a wild ride that was!!! Super fast paced and one you can easily fly through
January 7, 2026
The fact that this is a debut is shocking to me. If you like YA, this reimagining of Little Women is SO fun. I was hooked the whole time. Favorite read of the year so far.
October 27, 2025
As someone who is decidedly Little Women’s #1 hater, you’ll have to trust me when I say this is a phenomenal retelling. I loved the modernization and how Beth was murdered and that Bernet kept their personalities the same! I was glad she didn’t try to make Amy someone she wasn’t and kept her the worst. I can’t believe this is a debut!
However, I didn’t give it a full five stars because at times it was a bit TOO meta and there were a lot of flashbacks that could’ve been cut. It made it drag a bit and it was confusing when there were no dates because it would go from what seemed like a few months prior to several years ago and the timeline order truly made no sense. But I got an ARC so hopefully they’ll at least add in a year to keep it cohesive.
If you’re not a fan like me but want a fun murder mystery that’s not too easy to figure out, check this out!
However, I didn’t give it a full five stars because at times it was a bit TOO meta and there were a lot of flashbacks that could’ve been cut. It made it drag a bit and it was confusing when there were no dates because it would go from what seemed like a few months prior to several years ago and the timeline order truly made no sense. But I got an ARC so hopefully they’ll at least add in a year to keep it cohesive.
If you’re not a fan like me but want a fun murder mystery that’s not too easy to figure out, check this out!
Read
October 21, 2025Well, I am here as fuck for a Little Women retelling any day, though I did find that it was kind of hard to keep track of these modern personae and I often had to flip back to be sure I knew who was the narrator for a given chapter. Beth especially seemed really nebulous and not consistent or memorable a character. I will grant that I genuinely saw multiple potential killers, so well done on the job of writing a mystery that is indeed mysterious!
Read
January 4, 2026From PW: "The book is a contemporary reimagining of Little Women in which Beth dies in the first chapter, and her sisters will stop at nothing to track down her killer—until they begin to suspect each other. The novel is told in four perspectives, including Beth's in flashback."
May 18, 2025
reading this to blurb - quick thoughts: a love letter to little women, but also a critique of it. little women but make it a modern murder mystery - addictive and alluring, a memorable reimagining of the March sisters and the love [and sometimes hate] they have for one another.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4.5 stars!!
Beth Is Dead is a modern take on Little Women turned fast-paced murdery mystery, which I devoured in two sittings.
The title gives away the premise: When Beth is found dead in the woods, her sisters vow to uncover her murderer. However, suspicion quickly hits a little too close to home.
The short chapters, multi POV structure, and switching timelines made this dangerously bingeable, and had it not been my bedtime, I would have finished this in one sitting, because it was impossible to put down.
The way the past and present intertwine and include Beth's POV adds some real emotional weight to the mystery and will keep you engaged.
I loved revisiting some of my favourite characters in a completely new genre and feel like the author did each of the March sisters justice while simultaneously doing an amazing job transporting them into a contemporary setting! She also excelled at showcasing the sisterly bond, which is the core of the story (of both the classic and the retelling).
I did guess the killer early on, but that didn't take away from my enjoyment, especially with all the little Easter eggs I think fans of the original will love!
Overall, this was cleverly written, and I definitely recommend this to both fans of the classic and readers who love a fun, fast-paced, and surprisingly emotional thriller!
Beth Is Dead is a modern take on Little Women turned fast-paced murdery mystery, which I devoured in two sittings.
The title gives away the premise: When Beth is found dead in the woods, her sisters vow to uncover her murderer. However, suspicion quickly hits a little too close to home.
The short chapters, multi POV structure, and switching timelines made this dangerously bingeable, and had it not been my bedtime, I would have finished this in one sitting, because it was impossible to put down.
The way the past and present intertwine and include Beth's POV adds some real emotional weight to the mystery and will keep you engaged.
I loved revisiting some of my favourite characters in a completely new genre and feel like the author did each of the March sisters justice while simultaneously doing an amazing job transporting them into a contemporary setting! She also excelled at showcasing the sisterly bond, which is the core of the story (of both the classic and the retelling).
I did guess the killer early on, but that didn't take away from my enjoyment, especially with all the little Easter eggs I think fans of the original will love!
Overall, this was cleverly written, and I definitely recommend this to both fans of the classic and readers who love a fun, fast-paced, and surprisingly emotional thriller!
November 26, 2025
Beth is Dead by Katie Bernet. Thanks to @simonteen #simonteeninfluencer for the gifted Arc ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The March sisters need to figure out who killed their sister, Beth, but the suspect pool is large.
What a fun retelling of Little Women! I just loved how this was done. It became a modern tale, yet the girls kept their personalities and uniqueness from the original. I loved how it still was literary, with their father having written a book about them. It was very cleverly done. Even without the retelling aspect, there’s an entertaining young adult whodunnit behind it. This may turn a few modern day young women into Little Women fans!
“I need to prove that I’m more than the girl who dies at the end of the book.”
Read this if you like:
-Little Women
-Classic retellings as modern stories
-Books about books
-Young adult whodunnits
-Sister relationships
Beth is Dead comes out 1/6.
The March sisters need to figure out who killed their sister, Beth, but the suspect pool is large.
What a fun retelling of Little Women! I just loved how this was done. It became a modern tale, yet the girls kept their personalities and uniqueness from the original. I loved how it still was literary, with their father having written a book about them. It was very cleverly done. Even without the retelling aspect, there’s an entertaining young adult whodunnit behind it. This may turn a few modern day young women into Little Women fans!
“I need to prove that I’m more than the girl who dies at the end of the book.”
Read this if you like:
-Little Women
-Classic retellings as modern stories
-Books about books
-Young adult whodunnits
-Sister relationships
Beth is Dead comes out 1/6.
December 27, 2025
#ad much love for my advance copy @simonteen + @simon.audio for the ALC #partner
Beth is Dead
< @
Releases: January 6, 2026
Beth is dead. They found her outside in the snow frozen, covered in blood, and deader than dead. What happened last night and who did this to Beth? That is the mystery we are trying to solve and there’s no shortage of suspects.
Jo, Beth, Amy, and Meg are all sisters. Their father a famous author who wrote a book about his daughters. Beth died at the end of the book, but now life is mirroring his novel.
🎧: loved the audio
Caitlin Kelly, Emily Tremaine, Ferdelle Capistrano, and Piper Goodeve
Okay I need to finish this review ..
Beth is Dead
< @
Releases: January 6, 2026
Beth is dead. They found her outside in the snow frozen, covered in blood, and deader than dead. What happened last night and who did this to Beth? That is the mystery we are trying to solve and there’s no shortage of suspects.
Jo, Beth, Amy, and Meg are all sisters. Their father a famous author who wrote a book about his daughters. Beth died at the end of the book, but now life is mirroring his novel.
🎧: loved the audio
Caitlin Kelly, Emily Tremaine, Ferdelle Capistrano, and Piper Goodeve
Okay I need to finish this review ..
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