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What Happened to Those Girls
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Expected 30 Jun 26Pretty Little Liars meets The Blair Witch Project in this harrowing thriller from the author of Murder Land, brimming with betrayal, unsettling town secrets, and a killer lurking in the woods.
Emma knows her friends all lie to her. And everyone knows Emma is the outcast of their group. She's usually fine with that, until her friends go on a camping trip that she planned...without her. The next morning, she wakes up to the news that all three of them died at the campsite.
When Emma starts receiving unnerving videos of the girls the night they died from an anonymous source, it becomes clear their deaths weren't an accident. And if this becomes a murder case, Emma will be suspect number one. Because while everyone knows she had been excluded from the plans, what they don't know is that she went to the campsite that night after all, and someone has proof.
Emma teams up with Beck, one of the victims' sisters, to return to the woods and figure out what really happened the night her friends died, uncover who is behind the mysterious videos she is receiving, and make sure that nobody can pin their murders on her. But stranded in an eerie town that doesn't welcome outsiders with a murderer on their heels, Emma and Beck just might be next…
Emma knows her friends all lie to her. And everyone knows Emma is the outcast of their group. She's usually fine with that, until her friends go on a camping trip that she planned...without her. The next morning, she wakes up to the news that all three of them died at the campsite.
When Emma starts receiving unnerving videos of the girls the night they died from an anonymous source, it becomes clear their deaths weren't an accident. And if this becomes a murder case, Emma will be suspect number one. Because while everyone knows she had been excluded from the plans, what they don't know is that she went to the campsite that night after all, and someone has proof.
Emma teams up with Beck, one of the victims' sisters, to return to the woods and figure out what really happened the night her friends died, uncover who is behind the mysterious videos she is receiving, and make sure that nobody can pin their murders on her. But stranded in an eerie town that doesn't welcome outsiders with a murderer on their heels, Emma and Beck just might be next…
336 pages, Paperback
Expected publication June 30, 2026
9589 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
i like my mysteries fast paced enough to keep me entertained, but not too fast to make me feel like some aspects are getting glossed over. it's a tough balance to find, and unfortunately i don't think that what happened to those girls fully succeeded in doing so.
the characters are fine. emma is a compelling protagonist and you want to see her succeed, even if you're questioning her intentions like beck does: does she want to find out the truth about what happened to her friends because they were her friends or is it because she wants to clear her name? is it both? even though the book is written in first person, there's still a seed being planted that makes you doubt what's going on, and i quite enjoyed that. i did, however, wrinkle my nose at the friendships themselves, as the girls were terrible friends to emma (even opal through inaction), but that just made it all more tragic. you're told from the start that these girls aren't great to her, and maybe that ended up saving her life after all.
the pacing of the mystery itself was entertaining, and it's an easy book to breeze through. unfortunately, some supposedly big things ended up feeling inconsequential or didn't get enough foreshadowing, so it was hard to care about them.
another thing i liked was the constant doubt about there being something supernatural involved in the mystery. it's often not done well, but i think it worked out quite nicely in this one.
overall, if you're looking for a fast-paced, enthralling mystery featuring queer characters, this will be a good read for you.
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review
the characters are fine. emma is a compelling protagonist and you want to see her succeed, even if you're questioning her intentions like beck does: does she want to find out the truth about what happened to her friends because they were her friends or is it because she wants to clear her name? is it both? even though the book is written in first person, there's still a seed being planted that makes you doubt what's going on, and i quite enjoyed that. i did, however, wrinkle my nose at the friendships themselves, as the girls were terrible friends to emma (even opal through inaction), but that just made it all more tragic. you're told from the start that these girls aren't great to her, and maybe that ended up saving her life after all.
the pacing of the mystery itself was entertaining, and it's an easy book to breeze through. unfortunately, some supposedly big things ended up feeling inconsequential or didn't get enough foreshadowing, so it was hard to care about them.
another thing i liked was the constant doubt about there being something supernatural involved in the mystery. it's often not done well, but i think it worked out quite nicely in this one.
overall, if you're looking for a fast-paced, enthralling mystery featuring queer characters, this will be a good read for you.
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review
September 22, 2025
Hi everyone and welcome to my sophomore YA thriller, WHAT HAPPENED TO THOSE GIRLS. WHTTG sits on the intersection of mystery/thriller with some horror elements, inspired by me asking myself the question "would I have survived a slasher in high school?" and the answer being "I wouldn't have been invited to the party where the slasher took place." This book contains:
- A bisexual, Jewish, autistic (undiagnosed, but has a feeling she is) main character. She has the kind of neurodivergence I have, which manifests as special interests primarily forming around media in a "fangirl"ish way. I've never seen a character quite like the teen (and adult) I was, so I hope Emma helps folks feel seen. :)
- A weird small mountain town in Southern California that's convinced that a witch protects their town from wildfires (and that witch needs sacrifices). Very folklore/urban legend-y and the main aspect inspired by Blair Witch.
- Interstitial chapters that depict videos that take place on the night of the murders. They're the most "horror" I've written and I love them.
- A fair amount of body horror and gore. (think: teeth, fingernails, severed ears, that kind of thing). It's definitely more intense than Murder Land
- A trauma-bonded sapphic romance subplot
- A one-eyed cat named Aemond (who stays thriving the whole book)
As for TWs, this book contains the following:
Murder (on the page), attempted murder, blood and gore, bullying, sibling abuse (verbal/emotional and physical), stalking, gun usage, grief, panic attacks, internalized homophobia and ableism, discussion of disordered eating, self destruction via substance abuse and reckless behavior, mentioned (non-lethal) car crash, vomiting.
No animals are harmed in this book. People are. There is no spice because this is YA.
Hope everyone enjoys!
- A bisexual, Jewish, autistic (undiagnosed, but has a feeling she is) main character. She has the kind of neurodivergence I have, which manifests as special interests primarily forming around media in a "fangirl"ish way. I've never seen a character quite like the teen (and adult) I was, so I hope Emma helps folks feel seen. :)
- A weird small mountain town in Southern California that's convinced that a witch protects their town from wildfires (and that witch needs sacrifices). Very folklore/urban legend-y and the main aspect inspired by Blair Witch.
- Interstitial chapters that depict videos that take place on the night of the murders. They're the most "horror" I've written and I love them.
- A fair amount of body horror and gore. (think: teeth, fingernails, severed ears, that kind of thing). It's definitely more intense than Murder Land
- A trauma-bonded sapphic romance subplot
- A one-eyed cat named Aemond (who stays thriving the whole book)
As for TWs, this book contains the following:
Murder (on the page), attempted murder, blood and gore, bullying, sibling abuse (verbal/emotional and physical), stalking, gun usage, grief, panic attacks, internalized homophobia and ableism, discussion of disordered eating, self destruction via substance abuse and reckless behavior, mentioned (non-lethal) car crash, vomiting.
No animals are harmed in this book. People are. There is no spice because this is YA.
Hope everyone enjoys!
February 24, 2026
Thanks to Netgalley for providing an ARC of this book!
Emma is part of a friend group, but actually, she's more of an outsider. She's usually fine with that, until her friends decide to go on a camping trip she originally planned. Emma is not included on the trip. When she wakes up the next morning, she finds out that her three friends are dead. Emma starts to get messages and videos of the girls from an anonymous person. Emma now believes it wasn't an accident, but it was a murder. She needs to prove it. To do so, she asks one of the victims sisters, Beck, to help find evidence at the campsite. The campsite where a witch would live and kill people....
This young adult thriller is definitely a must read for fans of Pretty Little Liars and Holly Jackson. It fits exactly those vibes. The story starts off more slowly, but once we get on the campsite with Emma and Beck, the events starts to get really thrilling. The author has done a great job by building up the story and thereby creating a portion of tension.
Emma is not a very likable character, but I felt really sorry for what happened to her. I actually love that she's morally grey and not the perfect main character, she also has her flaws. Bonuspoints for the diversity because Emma thinks she has autisme, but doesn't have the diagnosis yet. You can definitely see her struggling with that throughout the book. In my opinion, the representation was okay, but I'm not the right person to judge that.
The plot twist... Oh my god. What was that?! I was completely shocked by the reveals. I absolutely did not see that coming. At all. So if you're looking for a YA thriller with a very good plot twist, this is your book! I honestly thought I would be getting some regular plot twists that are known in a lot of YA thrillers, but the author did an outstanding job on this.
I highly recommend this book. I don't have anything negative to say about this book, I had to finish this in one day, I couldn't stop reading. Five stars!
Emma is part of a friend group, but actually, she's more of an outsider. She's usually fine with that, until her friends decide to go on a camping trip she originally planned. Emma is not included on the trip. When she wakes up the next morning, she finds out that her three friends are dead. Emma starts to get messages and videos of the girls from an anonymous person. Emma now believes it wasn't an accident, but it was a murder. She needs to prove it. To do so, she asks one of the victims sisters, Beck, to help find evidence at the campsite. The campsite where a witch would live and kill people....
This young adult thriller is definitely a must read for fans of Pretty Little Liars and Holly Jackson. It fits exactly those vibes. The story starts off more slowly, but once we get on the campsite with Emma and Beck, the events starts to get really thrilling. The author has done a great job by building up the story and thereby creating a portion of tension.
Emma is not a very likable character, but I felt really sorry for what happened to her. I actually love that she's morally grey and not the perfect main character, she also has her flaws. Bonuspoints for the diversity because Emma thinks she has autisme, but doesn't have the diagnosis yet. You can definitely see her struggling with that throughout the book. In my opinion, the representation was okay, but I'm not the right person to judge that.
The plot twist... Oh my god. What was that?! I was completely shocked by the reveals. I absolutely did not see that coming. At all. So if you're looking for a YA thriller with a very good plot twist, this is your book! I honestly thought I would be getting some regular plot twists that are known in a lot of YA thrillers, but the author did an outstanding job on this.
I highly recommend this book. I don't have anything negative to say about this book, I had to finish this in one day, I couldn't stop reading. Five stars!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC REVIEW
Rating:- ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tropes:-
🩸Witchcraft
🔪 Girls' love
🩸Friend's sister
I would like to begin this review by saying WHAT THE HECK??? This book was CRAZY. Like, awesome and crazy.
It's one thing to lead the readers to suspect an innocent person, but this author just played with my thoughts.
In the beginning, this book just feels like another 'high school drama' kind of book, but then you will uncover the secrets and past mysteries. The first 70% of the book seemed almost normal, but then you get to the last 30% and so many things happened all at once. I couldn't keep track of all the events of the book.
I love how the author gave all the smallest details like Emma on the verge of a panic attack, the gore details about the condition of the bodies (which I haven't really read in many thriller books) and their murders (I still can't get those horrible images out of my head), Emma's personality and Beck's personality. I honestly feel very connected to Emma because I've noticed that we are kind of similar.
This book kind of reminds me of the movie 'Fear Street' because of all the witchcraft and the rituals and because of this, I totally loved the book. However, I was NOT ready for what happened at the end of the book. Nothing could have prepared me for it. I honestly want to say so many things about the book but I can't say much without spoiling it, but I have one word to describe this book- supercalifragilisticexpialidocious (extraordinarily good).
Ps:- I also love how the last part of the book takes place on June 29th and the book comes out on June 30th.
Rating:- ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tropes:-
🩸Witchcraft
🔪 Girls' love
🩸Friend's sister
I would like to begin this review by saying WHAT THE HECK??? This book was CRAZY. Like, awesome and crazy.
It's one thing to lead the readers to suspect an innocent person, but this author just played with my thoughts.
In the beginning, this book just feels like another 'high school drama' kind of book, but then you will uncover the secrets and past mysteries. The first 70% of the book seemed almost normal, but then you get to the last 30% and so many things happened all at once. I couldn't keep track of all the events of the book.
I love how the author gave all the smallest details like Emma on the verge of a panic attack, the gore details about the condition of the bodies (which I haven't really read in many thriller books) and their murders (I still can't get those horrible images out of my head), Emma's personality and Beck's personality. I honestly feel very connected to Emma because I've noticed that we are kind of similar.
This book kind of reminds me of the movie 'Fear Street' because of all the witchcraft and the rituals and because of this, I totally loved the book. However, I was NOT ready for what happened at the end of the book. Nothing could have prepared me for it. I honestly want to say so many things about the book but I can't say much without spoiling it, but I have one word to describe this book- supercalifragilisticexpialidocious (extraordinarily good).
Ps:- I also love how the last part of the book takes place on June 29th and the book comes out on June 30th.
March 22, 2026
Thanks kindly to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Fire for the ARC 👻🧙🏼♀️
I’ve yet to read a Sourcebooks Fire book that doesn’t hit! This book follows a group of teen girls who all best friends who don’t realllly like each other (almost a hatred, we’ve all been there) and decide to spend a night in the woods much to the chagrin of our main character, Emma, who is left out of the adventure. Things take a turn for the worst when all our woodsy adventurers die 🫢🤫 was it a witch? A murderer? Or a small town conspiracy?
Overall, this book was good and completed what it set out to do. There were minimal pacing issues yet I found there were some story issues. A LOT was happening, including characters being introduced as seemingly important and then forgotten, I think I misunderstood certain characters (particularly the one starting with V) and their purpose to the story other than a catalyst to lead us to twist after twist.
A big plus to the book was how realised the two main characters, Emma and Beck, felt. Particularly with Emma’s neurodivergence, I had yet to see someone written on the page who had a lot of similar traits of neurodivergence to myself, which felt special.
Beck was a strong character who never felt like she was making out of character decisions, and displayed the complex sibling dynamics between her and Paisley in a way I have yet to read.
Overall, 3.75 ⭐️💅🏼
I’ve yet to read a Sourcebooks Fire book that doesn’t hit! This book follows a group of teen girls who all best friends who don’t realllly like each other (almost a hatred, we’ve all been there) and decide to spend a night in the woods much to the chagrin of our main character, Emma, who is left out of the adventure. Things take a turn for the worst when all our woodsy adventurers die 🫢🤫 was it a witch? A murderer? Or a small town conspiracy?
Overall, this book was good and completed what it set out to do. There were minimal pacing issues yet I found there were some story issues. A LOT was happening, including characters being introduced as seemingly important and then forgotten, I think I misunderstood certain characters (particularly the one starting with V) and their purpose to the story other than a catalyst to lead us to twist after twist.
A big plus to the book was how realised the two main characters, Emma and Beck, felt. Particularly with Emma’s neurodivergence, I had yet to see someone written on the page who had a lot of similar traits of neurodivergence to myself, which felt special.
Beck was a strong character who never felt like she was making out of character decisions, and displayed the complex sibling dynamics between her and Paisley in a way I have yet to read.
Overall, 3.75 ⭐️💅🏼
February 17, 2026
This book was amazing!! I loved all the action, suspense, and terror I felt while reading it!! I read it in 3 days and can’t wait to read more books from this author!! This book was everything I wanted in a thriller!! The LGBTQ+ representation was the best!! There was not one dull moment in this book!! I read it so fast because I needed to know what happened to the girls in the book!! It was very fast paced and exciting throughout the book! This is a book I will not forget reading!! It was so fun and frightening at the same time!! I love this author so much and can’t wait to read more books from her in the future!!
March 30, 2026
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for approving me to read this book, I’m rating it 4.25 to 4.5 stars.
This is described as pretty little liars meets the blair witch and I think thats a fair description. The whole story is steeped in eerie tension and a mystery that has you thinking wth quite often. I did kind of guess an aspect of the twist, but there’s no way I could’ve guessed the full insanity that unfolded.
I enjoy our main characters Beck and Emma, an unlikely duo who bring slightly decent detective work and loyalty to the story. I was quite surprised how the plot originally unfolded as I did not expect the dark turn of events that send Beck and Emma on their path.
This is described as pretty little liars meets the blair witch and I think thats a fair description. The whole story is steeped in eerie tension and a mystery that has you thinking wth quite often. I did kind of guess an aspect of the twist, but there’s no way I could’ve guessed the full insanity that unfolded.
I enjoy our main characters Beck and Emma, an unlikely duo who bring slightly decent detective work and loyalty to the story. I was quite surprised how the plot originally unfolded as I did not expect the dark turn of events that send Beck and Emma on their path.
March 11, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Fire for this ARC on exchange for an honest review!
Oh wow finally an interesting and eerie thriller that left me guessing the whole way!! I loved the whole disappearing camping vibe. It was too good. The vibes of the book were spooky, eerie, dark and just amazing all around! I definitely recommend this author and I hope to read more from
Oh wow finally an interesting and eerie thriller that left me guessing the whole way!! I loved the whole disappearing camping vibe. It was too good. The vibes of the book were spooky, eerie, dark and just amazing all around! I definitely recommend this author and I hope to read more from
Want to read
February 13, 2026A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
3.5 stars
what happened to those girls is a very compelling ya thriller that immediately pulls you in with its premise. the pacing is one of its biggest strengths. it is the kind of book that makes you want to keep reading just one more chapter, especially as the twists start to unfold and reframe what you thought you knew.
I really enjoyed the atmosphere of the story, particularly the small town setting, the local legend, and the tension surrounding the events at the campsite. the central reveal was effective and tied the mystery together in a way that felt both eerie and satisfying.
however, some of the elements
overall, this is a compelling and addictive thriller that prioritizes momentum and twists. while some plot points could have been explored more deeply, it remains an entertaining read that fans of fast paced ya mysteries will likely enjoy.
3.5 stars
what happened to those girls is a very compelling ya thriller that immediately pulls you in with its premise. the pacing is one of its biggest strengths. it is the kind of book that makes you want to keep reading just one more chapter, especially as the twists start to unfold and reframe what you thought you knew.
I really enjoyed the atmosphere of the story, particularly the small town setting, the local legend, and the tension surrounding the events at the campsite. the central reveal was effective and tied the mystery together in a way that felt both eerie and satisfying.
however, some of the elements
overall, this is a compelling and addictive thriller that prioritizes momentum and twists. while some plot points could have been explored more deeply, it remains an entertaining read that fans of fast paced ya mysteries will likely enjoy.
March 21, 2026
When Emma finds out that her three best friends have gone on a camping trip without her– a trip that she planned– she is understandably hurt and angry. Emma plans to confront her friends, but when she finds out the next morning that they have been killed in what has been ruled a tragic accident, she is left with more questions than answers. Soon, Emma teams up with Beck, her friend’s sister, to investigate the girls’ deaths– or possibly, murders.
WHTTG is fast paced, grabbing the reader's attention from the first page and never letting go. The main characters, especially Emma, are well-developed and relatable. Emma’s insecurities, as well as her growth throughout the book, struck me as very realistic. It was easy to root for her as she and Beck tried to solve the mystery of “what happened to those girls.”
I would recommend this book for older teens, fans of horror and/or mysteries similar to Holly Jackson’s A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder series, and anyone who has ever felt out of place or lonely among friends. There are some scary elements in this story– mainly, the town is rumored to be haunted by a witch– and some depictions of gore that may be too graphic for a younger audience. Overall, WHTTG is an enjoyable read that will have you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.
Thank you to SOURCEBOOKS Fire for providing an e-ARC of this book through NetGalley.
WHTTG is fast paced, grabbing the reader's attention from the first page and never letting go. The main characters, especially Emma, are well-developed and relatable. Emma’s insecurities, as well as her growth throughout the book, struck me as very realistic. It was easy to root for her as she and Beck tried to solve the mystery of “what happened to those girls.”
I would recommend this book for older teens, fans of horror and/or mysteries similar to Holly Jackson’s A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder series, and anyone who has ever felt out of place or lonely among friends. There are some scary elements in this story– mainly, the town is rumored to be haunted by a witch– and some depictions of gore that may be too graphic for a younger audience. Overall, WHTTG is an enjoyable read that will have you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.
Thank you to SOURCEBOOKS Fire for providing an e-ARC of this book through NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks Fire for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
“What Happened to Those Girls” by Carlyn Greenwald is an eerie, fast-paced YA thriller/horror that combines small-town horror with emotional mystery into a suspenseful story about grief, betrayal, and the search for truth. With its unsettling atmosphere, supernatural hints, and compelling main character, this book keeps you hooked from the first page to its intense conclusion.
The story follows Emma, an awkward and relatable teen who is devastated when she discovers her three best friends went on a camping trip she planned without her. When the girls are found dead the next morning in what authorities call a tragic accident, Emma is left with crushing guilt, anger, and unanswered questions. But when she begins receiving anonymous texts suggesting the deaths were no accident, complete with disturbing evidence, Emma teams up with Beck, the sister of one of the victims, to uncover what really happened.
Emma is one of the book’s strongest elements. She self-identifies as neurodivergent and struggles socially, making her deeply relatable, especially for those who have felt out of place or excluded. Her inner world is richly portrayed; she’s insecure, obsessive with her niche interests, and emotionally complex, yet also determined and resilient. Watching her grow stronger and confront her fears throughout the investigation adds emotional weight to the suspenseful plot.
The mystery itself is engaging and layered. Emma and Beck investigate the remote campground and eerie small town where the girls died, uncovering local folklore about a witch tied to the area. Some townspeople believe the witch demands sacrifices, while others refuse to discuss the legend at all. As the girls dig deeper, strange and threatening events occur like cut fuel lines, shadowy figures in the woods, and chilling clues suggesting the victims may have been tortured. The story plays effectively with the question of whether the danger is supernatural or something far more human.
The atmosphere is a standout feature. The isolated mountain setting, distrustful locals, and creeping sense of dread create strong horror vibes reminiscent of stories like The Blair Witch Project, while the combination of mystery and teen drama keeps you entertained throughout. The tension builds steadily with frequent cliffhangers and revelations that make the book difficult to put down.
Alongside the mystery is a slow-burn sapphic romance between Emma and Beck. Their developing relationship adds warmth and emotional grounding without overshadowing the central investigation. The story also explores themes of friendship, betrayal, trauma, and how fear and belief can shape people’s actions, particularly in communities driven by superstition.
While the book delivers plenty of suspense, it leans toward older YA readers due to graphic descriptions, moments of body horror, and darker themes. Some twists may feel predictable, and I did hope for more found-footage elements as those helped make this book feel more unique. Still, the emotional climax is intense and satisfying, wrapping up the mystery while offering a hopeful note of healing and growth.
Overall, “What Happened to Those Girls” is a gripping YA horror-mystery with a compelling protagonist, strong atmosphere, and plenty of twists. This book is perfect for those who enjoy unsettling small-town secrets, folklore-driven suspense, and character-driven thrillers with a touch of romance, this chilling story explores what happens when the survivor of a horror story decides to go back and face the truth.
“What Happened to Those Girls” by Carlyn Greenwald is an eerie, fast-paced YA thriller/horror that combines small-town horror with emotional mystery into a suspenseful story about grief, betrayal, and the search for truth. With its unsettling atmosphere, supernatural hints, and compelling main character, this book keeps you hooked from the first page to its intense conclusion.
The story follows Emma, an awkward and relatable teen who is devastated when she discovers her three best friends went on a camping trip she planned without her. When the girls are found dead the next morning in what authorities call a tragic accident, Emma is left with crushing guilt, anger, and unanswered questions. But when she begins receiving anonymous texts suggesting the deaths were no accident, complete with disturbing evidence, Emma teams up with Beck, the sister of one of the victims, to uncover what really happened.
Emma is one of the book’s strongest elements. She self-identifies as neurodivergent and struggles socially, making her deeply relatable, especially for those who have felt out of place or excluded. Her inner world is richly portrayed; she’s insecure, obsessive with her niche interests, and emotionally complex, yet also determined and resilient. Watching her grow stronger and confront her fears throughout the investigation adds emotional weight to the suspenseful plot.
The mystery itself is engaging and layered. Emma and Beck investigate the remote campground and eerie small town where the girls died, uncovering local folklore about a witch tied to the area. Some townspeople believe the witch demands sacrifices, while others refuse to discuss the legend at all. As the girls dig deeper, strange and threatening events occur like cut fuel lines, shadowy figures in the woods, and chilling clues suggesting the victims may have been tortured. The story plays effectively with the question of whether the danger is supernatural or something far more human.
The atmosphere is a standout feature. The isolated mountain setting, distrustful locals, and creeping sense of dread create strong horror vibes reminiscent of stories like The Blair Witch Project, while the combination of mystery and teen drama keeps you entertained throughout. The tension builds steadily with frequent cliffhangers and revelations that make the book difficult to put down.
Alongside the mystery is a slow-burn sapphic romance between Emma and Beck. Their developing relationship adds warmth and emotional grounding without overshadowing the central investigation. The story also explores themes of friendship, betrayal, trauma, and how fear and belief can shape people’s actions, particularly in communities driven by superstition.
While the book delivers plenty of suspense, it leans toward older YA readers due to graphic descriptions, moments of body horror, and darker themes. Some twists may feel predictable, and I did hope for more found-footage elements as those helped make this book feel more unique. Still, the emotional climax is intense and satisfying, wrapping up the mystery while offering a hopeful note of healing and growth.
Overall, “What Happened to Those Girls” is a gripping YA horror-mystery with a compelling protagonist, strong atmosphere, and plenty of twists. This book is perfect for those who enjoy unsettling small-town secrets, folklore-driven suspense, and character-driven thrillers with a touch of romance, this chilling story explores what happens when the survivor of a horror story decides to go back and face the truth.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If you like thrillers with messy friendships, creepy woods, and enough secrets to fill an entire group chat archive, then this is the book for you and it absolutely delivers. I gave this one 4.5 stars and flew through it faster than you can say, maybe we shouldn't go into the exact woods our friends were murdered.
The story follows Emma, the self-proclaimed outsider of her friend group. She knows the girls (Paisley, Harlow & Opal) lie to her, she knows she's not exactly their favorite person, and honestly? She's mostly made peace with that. Until her so-called friends go on a camping trip that Emma planned...and conveniently forget to invite her. Rude...
But things take a dark turn when the next morning brings shocking news: all three girls are dead. And it only gets worse from there.
Emma starts receiving anonymous videos showing the girls the night they died. Suddenly it's clear their deaths weren't an accident and if the investigation turns into a murder case, Emma is sitting in the worst position: Prime Suspect.
Enter Beck, the sister of Paisley. Beck is determined to figure out what happened to her sister and friends and she reluctantly teams up with Emma to dig into the truth. Their uneasy partnership becomes the heart of the story-two girls who don't fully trust each other but desperately need answers. As they return to the woods and start pulling threads, they uncover a whole web of town secrets, buried grudges, and lies within the friend group that run much deeper than anyone expected.
Character-wise, this book shines. Emma is prickly, sarcastic, and understandably defensive after years of being the odd one out. Beck is driven, grieving, and stubborn in a way that makes her impossible not to root for. And the three girls at the center of the mystery-though gone-still loom large through flashbacks, videos, and the complicated history they shared with Emma.
The atmosphere is also chef's kiss. The woods are creepy, the town is suspicious, and the tension builds in that delicious "something is very wrong here" way.
As for the mystery? I didn't guess the outcome until almost the very end, and even then the way everything finally came together still managed to surprise me. The twists feel earned, and the story keeps you guessing as every new piece of evidence makes you question what you thought you knew.
If you love thrillers with toxic friendships, small-town secrets, and a creeping sense of dread, this one is absolutely work picking up when it's released June 20, 2026. Just maybe read it somewhere well lit...and not right before a camping trip!
*Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Sourcebooks Fire, for sharing this eARC with me in exchange for my honest opinion. This review is based off of an uncorrected proof which did not sway my thoughts either way. I can't wait to see what this author comes up with next!
The story follows Emma, the self-proclaimed outsider of her friend group. She knows the girls (Paisley, Harlow & Opal) lie to her, she knows she's not exactly their favorite person, and honestly? She's mostly made peace with that. Until her so-called friends go on a camping trip that Emma planned...and conveniently forget to invite her. Rude...
But things take a dark turn when the next morning brings shocking news: all three girls are dead. And it only gets worse from there.
Emma starts receiving anonymous videos showing the girls the night they died. Suddenly it's clear their deaths weren't an accident and if the investigation turns into a murder case, Emma is sitting in the worst position: Prime Suspect.
Enter Beck, the sister of Paisley. Beck is determined to figure out what happened to her sister and friends and she reluctantly teams up with Emma to dig into the truth. Their uneasy partnership becomes the heart of the story-two girls who don't fully trust each other but desperately need answers. As they return to the woods and start pulling threads, they uncover a whole web of town secrets, buried grudges, and lies within the friend group that run much deeper than anyone expected.
Character-wise, this book shines. Emma is prickly, sarcastic, and understandably defensive after years of being the odd one out. Beck is driven, grieving, and stubborn in a way that makes her impossible not to root for. And the three girls at the center of the mystery-though gone-still loom large through flashbacks, videos, and the complicated history they shared with Emma.
The atmosphere is also chef's kiss. The woods are creepy, the town is suspicious, and the tension builds in that delicious "something is very wrong here" way.
As for the mystery? I didn't guess the outcome until almost the very end, and even then the way everything finally came together still managed to surprise me. The twists feel earned, and the story keeps you guessing as every new piece of evidence makes you question what you thought you knew.
If you love thrillers with toxic friendships, small-town secrets, and a creeping sense of dread, this one is absolutely work picking up when it's released June 20, 2026. Just maybe read it somewhere well lit...and not right before a camping trip!
*Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Sourcebooks Fire, for sharing this eARC with me in exchange for my honest opinion. This review is based off of an uncorrected proof which did not sway my thoughts either way. I can't wait to see what this author comes up with next!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
As my first introduction to Carlyn Greenwald’s work, I can confidently say it won’t be my last. This YA thriller is an absolute must-read for fans of Holly Jackson, fitting that specific mystery aesthetic to perfection. The story centers on Emma, a protagonist who technically belongs to a friend group but has always felt like an outsider, a feeling that hits a breaking point when her friends go on a camping trip she originally planned, leaving her behind. The horror truly begins when she wakes up the next morning to the news that all three girls are dead. What follows is a haunting spiral where Emma begins receiving anonymous messages and videos, leading her to believe this wasn't an accident, but a murder. To prove it, she teams up with the sister of one of the victims, Beck, and the tension only escalates from there.
While the story starts with a measured pace, the momentum shifts dramatically once Emma and Beck reach the campsite. The author does an incredible job of building a heavy, atmospheric sense of dread. The combination of the isolated mountain setting, the distrustful locals, and the growing feeling of being watched creates a high-stakes environment that keeps you hooked. Emma herself is a fascinating character to follow; I have to admit she isn't always "likable" in the traditional sense, but I felt a deep sympathy for her. I actually loved her moral ambiguity and the fact that she isn't a "perfect" protagonist. She has clear flaws, and her internal struggle with what she believes is undiagnosed autism adds a layer of depth and diversity to her journey. While I’m not the best person to judge the representation, it felt very present and honestly portrayed throughout her narrative.
What really set this book apart for me, however, was the execution of the mystery. I went into this expecting the typical YA plot points, but the author completely subverted my expectations. The tension builds progressively with constant revelations until you hit THE plot twist and honestly, what was that?! It’s one thing to make a reader suspect the wrong person, but this story completely played with my head. I was left totally shocked by the final reveals; I truly did not see them coming.
To top it all off, I loved the little detail of the final scenes taking place on June 29th, just one day before the book’s actual release on June 30th.
If you are looking for a sharp, atmospheric thriller with a twist that will leave you reeling, you definitely need to pick this up.
**not my final review here**
While the story starts with a measured pace, the momentum shifts dramatically once Emma and Beck reach the campsite. The author does an incredible job of building a heavy, atmospheric sense of dread. The combination of the isolated mountain setting, the distrustful locals, and the growing feeling of being watched creates a high-stakes environment that keeps you hooked. Emma herself is a fascinating character to follow; I have to admit she isn't always "likable" in the traditional sense, but I felt a deep sympathy for her. I actually loved her moral ambiguity and the fact that she isn't a "perfect" protagonist. She has clear flaws, and her internal struggle with what she believes is undiagnosed autism adds a layer of depth and diversity to her journey. While I’m not the best person to judge the representation, it felt very present and honestly portrayed throughout her narrative.
What really set this book apart for me, however, was the execution of the mystery. I went into this expecting the typical YA plot points, but the author completely subverted my expectations. The tension builds progressively with constant revelations until you hit THE plot twist and honestly, what was that?! It’s one thing to make a reader suspect the wrong person, but this story completely played with my head. I was left totally shocked by the final reveals; I truly did not see them coming.
To top it all off, I loved the little detail of the final scenes taking place on June 29th, just one day before the book’s actual release on June 30th.
If you are looking for a sharp, atmospheric thriller with a twist that will leave you reeling, you definitely need to pick this up.
**not my final review here**
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Emma is hurt to find out that her three best friends excluded her from the camping trip near a ghost town that she planned, but then the three girls die tragically and Emma is devastated.
Emma is a bit of a geek and definitely not the most popular girl in her friend group. She self identifies as neurodivergent and has special interests she obsesses over, including crushes on female celebrities. After the deaths, Emma is trying to move on with her life, but then she starts getting weird text messages from someone who insists the deaths were not accidents. Emma gets involved in trying to solve the mystery with her dead friend Paisley’s older sister Beck. Emma isn’t doing this for purely selfless reasons, though; when she found out her friends ditched her, she left an angry voicemail on Paisley’s phone and even went to the campsite to confront her friends. What if she becomes a suspect? Emma and Beck decide to camp near where the girls were found to try to figure out what happened, but strange things start to happen like the fuel line being cut on Beck’s car and a stranger following them in the dark. Some people in the small town believe the town is haunted by a witch and others are reluctant to talk to the girls at all. As they get deeper and deeper into the mystery of what happened to the girls, Emma and Beck get closer and the two begin to catch feelings for each other. They also find evidence that the girls were potentially tortured.
My favorite part of this book is actually Emma’s interior world. The narration is in first person point of view and Emma is believable as a somewhat awkward, autistic teen girl who struggles interpersonally, but is tougher than she appears and has deep integrity. Emma and Beck’s slow burn romance is another strength. The twists in the final third of the book are quick and surprising with a bit of body horror. Recommended for readers who enjoy thrillers that have Blair Witch Project vibes.
All characters read as white.
Emma is a bit of a geek and definitely not the most popular girl in her friend group. She self identifies as neurodivergent and has special interests she obsesses over, including crushes on female celebrities. After the deaths, Emma is trying to move on with her life, but then she starts getting weird text messages from someone who insists the deaths were not accidents. Emma gets involved in trying to solve the mystery with her dead friend Paisley’s older sister Beck. Emma isn’t doing this for purely selfless reasons, though; when she found out her friends ditched her, she left an angry voicemail on Paisley’s phone and even went to the campsite to confront her friends. What if she becomes a suspect? Emma and Beck decide to camp near where the girls were found to try to figure out what happened, but strange things start to happen like the fuel line being cut on Beck’s car and a stranger following them in the dark. Some people in the small town believe the town is haunted by a witch and others are reluctant to talk to the girls at all. As they get deeper and deeper into the mystery of what happened to the girls, Emma and Beck get closer and the two begin to catch feelings for each other. They also find evidence that the girls were potentially tortured.
My favorite part of this book is actually Emma’s interior world. The narration is in first person point of view and Emma is believable as a somewhat awkward, autistic teen girl who struggles interpersonally, but is tougher than she appears and has deep integrity. Emma and Beck’s slow burn romance is another strength. The twists in the final third of the book are quick and surprising with a bit of body horror. Recommended for readers who enjoy thrillers that have Blair Witch Project vibes.
All characters read as white.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3,5 stars
"What Happened to Those Girls" was a very fast, addicting read. The story draws you in from the very first chapter and the fast pacing throughout the book makes it extremely easy and enjoyable to keep reading, especially as the "whodunit" stars developing.
I really enjoyed the concept of the book: the small town setting, high school cliques, and local legend add up to a spectacularly fun-to-read YA Scooby Doo of sorts. The lead up to the mystery was done very well, the clues are revealed in such a way that you genuinely feel like you're in the woods, with two other girls, solving this case - even had small rushes of adrenaline while reading some parts.
Despite all of this, I had two big things with the book that disconnected me from the story:
1. The transition between some chapters seemed a bit rough, almost as if missing a paragraph in between them. The first time I brushed it off and attributed it to the mystery aspect of the book and building intrigue; but the second/third time made me think it was just a slip-up
2. I would've loved to get a little bit more on the characters, especially Emma's (FMC) siblings & the romantic relationship that gets explored in the book. It just felt a little weak in that area, and personally affected my reception to the more emotional parts of the story. The author does a great job at building the plot and suspense, but the character development/insight was a little lacking :(
Overall, I had a great time reading this! It had been a minute since my last YA thriller, and this reminded me of how much I like the genre :)
ARC From NetGalley!
"What Happened to Those Girls" was a very fast, addicting read. The story draws you in from the very first chapter and the fast pacing throughout the book makes it extremely easy and enjoyable to keep reading, especially as the "whodunit" stars developing.
I really enjoyed the concept of the book: the small town setting, high school cliques, and local legend add up to a spectacularly fun-to-read YA Scooby Doo of sorts. The lead up to the mystery was done very well, the clues are revealed in such a way that you genuinely feel like you're in the woods, with two other girls, solving this case - even had small rushes of adrenaline while reading some parts.
Despite all of this, I had two big things with the book that disconnected me from the story:
1. The transition between some chapters seemed a bit rough, almost as if missing a paragraph in between them. The first time I brushed it off and attributed it to the mystery aspect of the book and building intrigue; but the second/third time made me think it was just a slip-up
2. I would've loved to get a little bit more on the characters, especially Emma's (FMC) siblings & the romantic relationship that gets explored in the book. It just felt a little weak in that area, and personally affected my reception to the more emotional parts of the story. The author does a great job at building the plot and suspense, but the character development/insight was a little lacking :(
Overall, I had a great time reading this! It had been a minute since my last YA thriller, and this reminded me of how much I like the genre :)
ARC From NetGalley!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
This book continues the rich Blair Witch tradition of legends of witches in woods and found footage horror with dead bodies around them, but while it is sometimes horrifying, it's execution has some gaps in logic and the pacing is off.
We follow Emma into the woods to find out what happened to her three best friends who didn't tell her about a camping trip they were going on together and ended with all three friends dead. Accompanying her is the older sister of one of her bestie's, Beck, who Emma also has a giant crush on. So, what worked for me was initially the description of the woods themselves and the setup for the mystery, with a mysterious blood-drenched female figure appearing too quickly in two different places, mysterious text messages, and ominous last words from Paisley. Emma and Beck are both very much queer teenage girls veering from impulsive disaster to disaster, and neurodivergent readers will most likely relate to Emma's social struggles.
What really didn't work for me though was the payoff to the mystery.
Still, as a YA mystery, it is a spooky page-turner with a nice queer romance, so check it out if it sounds up your alley?
This book continues the rich Blair Witch tradition of legends of witches in woods and found footage horror with dead bodies around them, but while it is sometimes horrifying, it's execution has some gaps in logic and the pacing is off.
We follow Emma into the woods to find out what happened to her three best friends who didn't tell her about a camping trip they were going on together and ended with all three friends dead. Accompanying her is the older sister of one of her bestie's, Beck, who Emma also has a giant crush on. So, what worked for me was initially the description of the woods themselves and the setup for the mystery, with a mysterious blood-drenched female figure appearing too quickly in two different places, mysterious text messages, and ominous last words from Paisley. Emma and Beck are both very much queer teenage girls veering from impulsive disaster to disaster, and neurodivergent readers will most likely relate to Emma's social struggles.
What really didn't work for me though was the payoff to the mystery.
Still, as a YA mystery, it is a spooky page-turner with a nice queer romance, so check it out if it sounds up your alley?
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Sourcebooks Fire and Netgalley for this eARC, these opinions are my own. Emma is neurodivergent and people have a hard time understanding her, or they can find her to be a bit much. Even her friends, they lie to her all the time, she’s the outcast of the group. Normally she tries not to let it bother her but when they go on a camping trip without her, a trip she planned, she’s ready to blow up their friendship. But the next day it’s all over the news, the three girls died on that camping trip. Now Emma feels lost they were her friends but they also hurt her. The only person who might understand is Beck, the sister of one of the girls, and Emma’s longtime crush. The two are trying to help each other with their grief when Emma gets an anonymous text, telling her that what happened to the girls wasn’t an accident, they were murdered. They even send video evidence of the girls from that night. But worst of all they know Emma was really there that night. If she doesn’t want to be accused of murder she’ll have to find out what really happened to her friends. She’ll also have to keep Beck from finding out her secret. Can they figure out what happened? When signs start to point to a local story of a witch are they dealing with something supernatural? And will looking put them in danger as well? A great queer mystery that kept me hooked, and I enjoyed the addition of the supernatural elements! Fast paced, intense, and thrilling! Carlyn Greenwald had me hooked from the beginning and kept me turning the pages all the way through to the twist ending!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If Pretty Little Liars met The Blair Witch Project and sprinkled in witchcraft, secrets, and a missing body… you’d get this wild ride. 🔮📖
What Happened to Those Girls by Carlyn Greenwald | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐️
When I first heard this described as Pretty Little Liars meets Blair Witch Project, I was instantly intrigued and let me tell you, it absolutely delivers on that promise.
From the very first chapter, this story pulls you in and never lets go. There truly wasn’t a single flat moment. Every chapter had me locked in, turning pages faster because I had to know what was coming next. The pacing keeps the tension high, and the mystery slowly unravels in a way that keeps you questioning everything.
One of my favorite aspects was the complexity of the characters. Each girl felt layered and real, with flaws, fears, and motivations that made them incredibly relatable. You’re not just watching events unfold, you’re experiencing the emotional weight and secrets right alongside them.
This thriller packs so many elements that make it irresistible:
✨ Witchcraft vibes
🌈 LGBTQ+ representation
🔎 A gripping mystery
🩸 Murder
🕵️♀️ And the chilling question of a missing body
All of these pieces blend together to create a story that’s eerie, suspenseful, and impossible to put down. The atmosphere alone gives that creepy, small town secret energy that thriller lovers will absolutely eat up.
If you love thrillers with dark secrets, supernatural undertones, messy friendships, and high-stakes mystery, this is definitely one to add to your radar
What Happened to Those Girls by Carlyn Greenwald | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐️
When I first heard this described as Pretty Little Liars meets Blair Witch Project, I was instantly intrigued and let me tell you, it absolutely delivers on that promise.
From the very first chapter, this story pulls you in and never lets go. There truly wasn’t a single flat moment. Every chapter had me locked in, turning pages faster because I had to know what was coming next. The pacing keeps the tension high, and the mystery slowly unravels in a way that keeps you questioning everything.
One of my favorite aspects was the complexity of the characters. Each girl felt layered and real, with flaws, fears, and motivations that made them incredibly relatable. You’re not just watching events unfold, you’re experiencing the emotional weight and secrets right alongside them.
This thriller packs so many elements that make it irresistible:
✨ Witchcraft vibes
🌈 LGBTQ+ representation
🔎 A gripping mystery
🩸 Murder
🕵️♀️ And the chilling question of a missing body
All of these pieces blend together to create a story that’s eerie, suspenseful, and impossible to put down. The atmosphere alone gives that creepy, small town secret energy that thriller lovers will absolutely eat up.
If you love thrillers with dark secrets, supernatural undertones, messy friendships, and high-stakes mystery, this is definitely one to add to your radar
March 12, 2026
~ARC REVIEW~
First off, thank you to Sourcebooks Fire and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
Wow, I honestly have no words (although you’re about to read a lot of them)
This was … insane, to say the least. The story starts out with Emma feeling left out of her friend group when her so-called friends went on the camping trip she planned without her. They are found dead the next morning and Emma starts receiving suspicious texts and a video from the night they died, and it becomes pretty clear that their deaths weren’t accidental. Determined to uncover the truth, she teams up with Beck (one of the victims’ sister) and they embark on what I can only call the stupidest most dangerous adventure ever (but hey, we got an amazing book out of it so I’m not complaining), to find out what really happened at the campsite.
The town, the forest, the weird locals, and that whole creepy witch‑legend‑murder thing? Honestly, it was written so well and gave me all the horror vibes. I read a lot of thriller, it’s the genre that got me into reading when I was younger and it’s always been one my favorites, but I’m never really that surprised anymore at the twists. I don’t see them coming at all but I’m never really that shocked. This, however, was so incredibly unexpected and towards the end when my brain started trying to figure out if what I was finding out was actually real, I couldn’t have seen the actual truth coming even if it flashing like neon lights in my face.
I loved this, I’d recommend this to anyone, even if they’re not into this genre.
First off, thank you to Sourcebooks Fire and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
Wow, I honestly have no words (although you’re about to read a lot of them)
This was … insane, to say the least. The story starts out with Emma feeling left out of her friend group when her so-called friends went on the camping trip she planned without her. They are found dead the next morning and Emma starts receiving suspicious texts and a video from the night they died, and it becomes pretty clear that their deaths weren’t accidental. Determined to uncover the truth, she teams up with Beck (one of the victims’ sister) and they embark on what I can only call the stupidest most dangerous adventure ever (but hey, we got an amazing book out of it so I’m not complaining), to find out what really happened at the campsite.
The town, the forest, the weird locals, and that whole creepy witch‑legend‑murder thing? Honestly, it was written so well and gave me all the horror vibes. I read a lot of thriller, it’s the genre that got me into reading when I was younger and it’s always been one my favorites, but I’m never really that surprised anymore at the twists. I don’t see them coming at all but I’m never really that shocked. This, however, was so incredibly unexpected and towards the end when my brain started trying to figure out if what I was finding out was actually real, I couldn’t have seen the actual truth coming even if it flashing like neon lights in my face.
I loved this, I’d recommend this to anyone, even if they’re not into this genre.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC From NetGalley!
Real Rating: 4.25 Stars
The opening line to this book is an absolute hook! The use of active, present voice was clever which definitely told me I was in it for a ride. I was already so curious from the get-go, and I genuinely was able to feel like I was with Emma, experiencing all her feelings with her. This story offers an immersive and clever plot that created the perfect eerie and thrilling atmosphere full of suspense and intriguing twists. The biggest reveal of information wasn't quite unexpected as it was built up early on, but trust that it will still shock you nonetheless. While it focuses more on that thrill, some details were horrifying and scary enough to get your toes curling. I love the build-up between Emma and Beck, I'm a complete sucker for queer-sapphic romances, and it's great to see it included here as well. If there's anything that reminds me of this story aside from The Blair Witch Project, it would have to be the Fear Street Trilogy on Netflix, so if you're a big fan of sapphic horror/thriller stories that isn't super lengthy and paced just right, this book is definitely for you. The only reason I'm taking some points off is that while it felt like I was with the character at all times, I didn't really feel connected to them as it's very plot-driven, but this is more of a preference thing, so if that's not a problem for you, this might be your next 5 star read!
Real Rating: 4.25 Stars
The opening line to this book is an absolute hook! The use of active, present voice was clever which definitely told me I was in it for a ride. I was already so curious from the get-go, and I genuinely was able to feel like I was with Emma, experiencing all her feelings with her. This story offers an immersive and clever plot that created the perfect eerie and thrilling atmosphere full of suspense and intriguing twists. The biggest reveal of information wasn't quite unexpected as it was built up early on, but trust that it will still shock you nonetheless. While it focuses more on that thrill, some details were horrifying and scary enough to get your toes curling. I love the build-up between Emma and Beck, I'm a complete sucker for queer-sapphic romances, and it's great to see it included here as well. If there's anything that reminds me of this story aside from The Blair Witch Project, it would have to be the Fear Street Trilogy on Netflix, so if you're a big fan of sapphic horror/thriller stories that isn't super lengthy and paced just right, this book is definitely for you. The only reason I'm taking some points off is that while it felt like I was with the character at all times, I didn't really feel connected to them as it's very plot-driven, but this is more of a preference thing, so if that's not a problem for you, this might be your next 5 star read!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
2.75⭐️
Thanks to Netgalley for the eARC.
this book started off great where we have Emma who feels like an outsider within her friend group of four. Emma feels devastated when she learns that her friends went on a trip without her, which she had planned. But things take a turn when her friends go missing, and no one has to know that Emma was also there that night.
Eight months later, Emma and one of her missing friend, Paisley's elder sister Beck decide to go to that town to figure out what happened.
The setting of this town is really spooky which I liked. The characters are also well-written as they have their quirks.
It wasn't easy for me to keep up with some of the chapters, especially those with action, because of the uneven pace in the middle. The story concentrates more on the trauma bonding between Emma and Beck who also fall in love with each other, than on discovering what actually happened. There was a lot of information dumping and unraveling in the last 60 pages which I found fairly entertaining and interesting. I would have preferred it to be done in the earlier chapters to ease the flow of reading.
Overall, the storyline in this thriller is decent with spooky elements such as witchcraft and rituals, and will make you trust the innocent characters but the execution did not quite work for me.
What to expect:
~sapphic romance subplot
~trauma bonding
~friend's sister
~weird spooky town
~unreliable characters
~murder
~Plot twists
~bullying
~grief
~stalking
𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔:
Plot: 2⭐️
Characters: 3⭐️
Ending: 2⭐️
Plot twists: 3.5⭐️
Themes: 3.5⭐️
Writing Style & Structure: 3⭐️
OVERALL: 2.75⭐️
Thanks to Netgalley for the eARC.
this book started off great where we have Emma who feels like an outsider within her friend group of four. Emma feels devastated when she learns that her friends went on a trip without her, which she had planned. But things take a turn when her friends go missing, and no one has to know that Emma was also there that night.
Eight months later, Emma and one of her missing friend, Paisley's elder sister Beck decide to go to that town to figure out what happened.
The setting of this town is really spooky which I liked. The characters are also well-written as they have their quirks.
It wasn't easy for me to keep up with some of the chapters, especially those with action, because of the uneven pace in the middle. The story concentrates more on the trauma bonding between Emma and Beck who also fall in love with each other, than on discovering what actually happened. There was a lot of information dumping and unraveling in the last 60 pages which I found fairly entertaining and interesting. I would have preferred it to be done in the earlier chapters to ease the flow of reading.
Overall, the storyline in this thriller is decent with spooky elements such as witchcraft and rituals, and will make you trust the innocent characters but the execution did not quite work for me.
What to expect:
~sapphic romance subplot
~trauma bonding
~friend's sister
~weird spooky town
~unreliable characters
~murder
~Plot twists
~bullying
~grief
~stalking
𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔:
Plot: 2⭐️
Characters: 3⭐️
Ending: 2⭐️
Plot twists: 3.5⭐️
Themes: 3.5⭐️
Writing Style & Structure: 3⭐️
OVERALL: 2.75⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC Review for Netgalley
What Happened to Those Girls
Carlyn Greenwald
This story is about betrayal, grief, and the terrifying realization that you might be the perfect suspect. After being excluded from a camping trip she planned, Emma wakes up to the news that her three friends are dead in a ghost town tied to a local witch legend. Months later, anonymous videos surface placing her at the scene. What makes this book special is the atmosphere. The small town paranoia, the eerie woods, and the emotional weight of messy teenage friendships blend into a thriller that feels personal and unsettling.
My favorite part was the dynamic between Emma and Beck. Grief laced with suspicion, reluctant teamwork, and tension that simmers under every interaction made the investigation feel raw and dangerous.
Tropes & Vibes
🌲 Eerie small town secrets
👀 Anonymous messages and paranoia
🕯 Witch legend folklore
💔 Messy complicated friendships
🏳️🌈 Queer coming of age depth
🔪 Amateur investigation tension
🌫 Blair Witch meets teen drama energy
Read this if you like
��� Pretty Little Liars style secrets
🌲 Isolated woods horror vibes
🖤 Unreliable friendships and betrayal
📱 Tech fueled psychological tension
💥 Fast paced YA thrillers with twists
#YAThriller #MysteryReads #SmallTownSecrets #QueerThriller #BookstagramThriller @sourcebooksfire
What Happened to Those Girls
Carlyn Greenwald
This story is about betrayal, grief, and the terrifying realization that you might be the perfect suspect. After being excluded from a camping trip she planned, Emma wakes up to the news that her three friends are dead in a ghost town tied to a local witch legend. Months later, anonymous videos surface placing her at the scene. What makes this book special is the atmosphere. The small town paranoia, the eerie woods, and the emotional weight of messy teenage friendships blend into a thriller that feels personal and unsettling.
My favorite part was the dynamic between Emma and Beck. Grief laced with suspicion, reluctant teamwork, and tension that simmers under every interaction made the investigation feel raw and dangerous.
Tropes & Vibes
🌲 Eerie small town secrets
👀 Anonymous messages and paranoia
🕯 Witch legend folklore
💔 Messy complicated friendships
🏳️🌈 Queer coming of age depth
🔪 Amateur investigation tension
🌫 Blair Witch meets teen drama energy
Read this if you like
��� Pretty Little Liars style secrets
🌲 Isolated woods horror vibes
🖤 Unreliable friendships and betrayal
📱 Tech fueled psychological tension
💥 Fast paced YA thrillers with twists
#YAThriller #MysteryReads #SmallTownSecrets #QueerThriller #BookstagramThriller @sourcebooksfire
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What Happened to Those Girls follows Emma after she’s excluded from a camping trip with her friends and discovers they died. While it’s initially ruled an accident, Emma believes something more happened that night. She teams up with Beck, one of her friend’s sisters, and goes to the camping spot to figure out what really happened as she starts receiving mysterious messages. If she’s not careful, she might be next …
I saw this was pitched as PLL meets Blair Witch and this is 100% a great comparison on both counts! This was a really great thriller. The mystery element was so well done and the gore and horror were so haunting and atmospheric and spooky. I loved the concept! And I had no clue what was really going on. The author did an amazing job at keeping you guessing until the very end. And the ending was SO satisfying.
I really enjoyed Emma as a main character. She was smart and determined. I thought her autism was really well written and I enjoyed the discussions around it. Beck was also really great. The panic attack moment felt very realistic. The author created such vivid, real characters that are so easy to root for. And their romance was really sweet!
If you love spooky, atmospheric mystery thrillers set in the woods, I’d highly recommend this one!
Thank you to Netgalley and Sourcebooks for the arc!
I saw this was pitched as PLL meets Blair Witch and this is 100% a great comparison on both counts! This was a really great thriller. The mystery element was so well done and the gore and horror were so haunting and atmospheric and spooky. I loved the concept! And I had no clue what was really going on. The author did an amazing job at keeping you guessing until the very end. And the ending was SO satisfying.
I really enjoyed Emma as a main character. She was smart and determined. I thought her autism was really well written and I enjoyed the discussions around it. Beck was also really great. The panic attack moment felt very realistic. The author created such vivid, real characters that are so easy to root for. And their romance was really sweet!
If you love spooky, atmospheric mystery thrillers set in the woods, I’d highly recommend this one!
Thank you to Netgalley and Sourcebooks for the arc!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
After her friends leave her out of the camping trip she organized, the next morning Emma is shocked to learn they’ve died at the campsite. Later, she receives anonymous messages from someone who seems to know what really happened that night. So Emma and one of the victims sister, Beck decide to go to the abandoned town and investigate themselves. But the town has an eerie feeling, especially because of stories about a witch tied to its past.
I really enjoyed this story and to me it was so much more than a thriller. I loved the way certain topics were handled. The atmosphere was my favorite part and I think the author really nailed it with the small town, the camping, the witch legend, and the trust no one energy from the locals that made this thriller so much more engaging and put me through a loop about what really could've happened. The grief and betrayal portrayed from our main characters was so real and heartbreaking. I related to Emma and Beck in so many ways- their fears and desires and family dynamics. The pacing was perfect (i read this in one night) and the dash of romance was everything.
Recommended for readers who love a well written YA Thriller with twists until the end.
After her friends leave her out of the camping trip she organized, the next morning Emma is shocked to learn they’ve died at the campsite. Later, she receives anonymous messages from someone who seems to know what really happened that night. So Emma and one of the victims sister, Beck decide to go to the abandoned town and investigate themselves. But the town has an eerie feeling, especially because of stories about a witch tied to its past.
I really enjoyed this story and to me it was so much more than a thriller. I loved the way certain topics were handled. The atmosphere was my favorite part and I think the author really nailed it with the small town, the camping, the witch legend, and the trust no one energy from the locals that made this thriller so much more engaging and put me through a loop about what really could've happened. The grief and betrayal portrayed from our main characters was so real and heartbreaking. I related to Emma and Beck in so many ways- their fears and desires and family dynamics. The pacing was perfect (i read this in one night) and the dash of romance was everything.
Recommended for readers who love a well written YA Thriller with twists until the end.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This one was definitely different from what I was expecting, and unfortunately not in a good way. I went into it knowing it was a YA title, so I expected some younger character dynamics, but that wasn’t really my main issue with the story.
The premise had a lot of potential and sounded like it could lead to a really engaging and suspenseful plot. However, the execution didn’t quite live up to that promise for me. Much of the story felt frustrating because the characters spent a lot of time making questionable decisions and focusing their energy on what ultimately felt like a fairly thin central conflict.
Instead of building tension, large portions of the book seemed to revolve around worrying about the supposed witch, which made the pacing drag and kept the story from feeling as compelling as it could have been. I kept waiting for the plot to take a stronger turn, but it never fully delivered.
The final twist also didn’t quite work for me. It required a level of suspension of disbelief that felt difficult to accept, especially given the way the rest of the story had unfolded.
Overall, while the premise was intriguing, the story ultimately ended up being a disappointment for me.
The premise had a lot of potential and sounded like it could lead to a really engaging and suspenseful plot. However, the execution didn’t quite live up to that promise for me. Much of the story felt frustrating because the characters spent a lot of time making questionable decisions and focusing their energy on what ultimately felt like a fairly thin central conflict.
Instead of building tension, large portions of the book seemed to revolve around worrying about the supposed witch, which made the pacing drag and kept the story from feeling as compelling as it could have been. I kept waiting for the plot to take a stronger turn, but it never fully delivered.
The final twist also didn’t quite work for me. It required a level of suspension of disbelief that felt difficult to accept, especially given the way the rest of the story had unfolded.
Overall, while the premise was intriguing, the story ultimately ended up being a disappointment for me.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
***Thanks to NetGalley for providing me a complimentary copy of WHAT HAPPENED TO THOSE GIRLS by Carlyn Greenwald in exchange for my honest review.***
My two-star review might be a case of a *me* problem rather than a WHAT HAPPENED TO THOSE GIRLS problem so please read other reviews before deciding whether to read.
I don’t think this writer is for me. The blurbs for her books are of great interest, but the execution falls short.
Narrator and MC Emma has become an outcast in her friend group, only she doesn’t realize. I could tell from the first page why her friends would want to distance themselves. Her intensity whether her friend Paisley is okay, even their other two friends and Paisley assure Emma she’s fine would get on anyone’s nerves. I have a well-managed chronic illness and had a friend who constantly asked me if I was okay. It drove me nuts because I’m someone who will say if I’m not. Emma reminded me of her, so maybe I’m biased.
Greenwald’s word-building made reading more enjoyable, although the teens’ dialogue sounded like an adult trying to sound like a teenager rather than an actual teenager.
I suggest reading a sample before deciding if this book is for you.
My two-star review might be a case of a *me* problem rather than a WHAT HAPPENED TO THOSE GIRLS problem so please read other reviews before deciding whether to read.
I don’t think this writer is for me. The blurbs for her books are of great interest, but the execution falls short.
Narrator and MC Emma has become an outcast in her friend group, only she doesn’t realize. I could tell from the first page why her friends would want to distance themselves. Her intensity whether her friend Paisley is okay, even their other two friends and Paisley assure Emma she’s fine would get on anyone’s nerves. I have a well-managed chronic illness and had a friend who constantly asked me if I was okay. It drove me nuts because I’m someone who will say if I’m not. Emma reminded me of her, so maybe I’m biased.
Greenwald’s word-building made reading more enjoyable, although the teens’ dialogue sounded like an adult trying to sound like a teenager rather than an actual teenager.
I suggest reading a sample before deciding if this book is for you.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What Happened to Those Girls has the right ingredients for a standout thriller: fantastic representation, complex friend dynamics, and chilling barbaric elements.
However, the execution feels like a rough draft. The prose is grammatically exhausting due to clunky phrasing, double negatives, and technical errors. The emotional impact is diluted by repetitive physical cues—with the word throat appearing nearly 70 times to signal distress—and a confusing timeline.
The plot feels like a tangled ball of yarn, mixing an LA-adjacent witch town with ritualistic subplots that never quite tie into the final resolution. Between the inconsistent character logic (ie how the MC flip-flops quickly - reminiscing on her selfless BFFs and then hating them in the next breath) and logistical errors (like doorless buildings that are somehow explored) - the immersion frequently breaks.
There is a compelling, high-stakes story hidden here, but it needs a surgical edit to tighten the prose and smooth out the narrative focus.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
However, the execution feels like a rough draft. The prose is grammatically exhausting due to clunky phrasing, double negatives, and technical errors. The emotional impact is diluted by repetitive physical cues—with the word throat appearing nearly 70 times to signal distress—and a confusing timeline.
The plot feels like a tangled ball of yarn, mixing an LA-adjacent witch town with ritualistic subplots that never quite tie into the final resolution. Between the inconsistent character logic (ie how the MC flip-flops quickly - reminiscing on her selfless BFFs and then hating them in the next breath) and logistical errors (like doorless buildings that are somehow explored) - the immersion frequently breaks.
There is a compelling, high-stakes story hidden here, but it needs a surgical edit to tighten the prose and smooth out the narrative focus.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The way everything was described in his book, it made me feel like I was watching a movie in my head.
What Happened to Those Girls is about Emma, her friends and how she was feeling like an outcast in their friend group. She felt even more left out when she found out that they were planning on a camping trip without her. Her world turned upside down when the news of her friends death got to her, along with videos of how it happened.
I think most people can relate to Emma’s character, how she was an outcast or how she feels like an outcast for being who she was. The feeling of “do they or don’t they like me”, “are they hanging out without me?”, “are they having secret conversations without me?” It’s truly sad but it’s a common thing.
I definitely did not like her friends Paisley. I thought she was so full of herself. I did not like her for being so rude to her sister, her friends, or anyone for that matter. I also did not like her for what she did. I think that Paisley’s character was written well because I definitely disliked.
Overall, I recommend this book if you’re into YA, summer mystery, thriller book.
What Happened to Those Girls is about Emma, her friends and how she was feeling like an outcast in their friend group. She felt even more left out when she found out that they were planning on a camping trip without her. Her world turned upside down when the news of her friends death got to her, along with videos of how it happened.
I think most people can relate to Emma’s character, how she was an outcast or how she feels like an outcast for being who she was. The feeling of “do they or don’t they like me”, “are they hanging out without me?”, “are they having secret conversations without me?” It’s truly sad but it’s a common thing.
I definitely did not like her friends Paisley. I thought she was so full of herself. I did not like her for being so rude to her sister, her friends, or anyone for that matter. I also did not like her for what she did. I think that Paisley’s character was written well because I definitely disliked.
Overall, I recommend this book if you’re into YA, summer mystery, thriller book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 rounded to a 4
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for an e -arc in exchange for an honest review!
I enjoyed this much more than I thought I would! usually YA mystery/thrillers can be pretty hit or miss, but this one really worked for me!
I really enjoyed the folklore type element that was included. There is a small California mountain town that believes in a witch that will protect them from wildfires, but in order to do so needs sacrifices, very much reminiscent of the Blair witch project. I really enjoyed our main character Emma. I found her neurodivergence to be displayed very well, and her special interests/fangirl tendencies (specially around horror related subjects) made me more interested in the character. Probably my favourite aspect of the book was the blooming romance between Emma and her missing friend's sister Beck, and found it to be well paced throughout the novel!
if your looking for a quick YA thriller with subplots of myths and romance I would definitely recommend it!!!
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for an e -arc in exchange for an honest review!
I enjoyed this much more than I thought I would! usually YA mystery/thrillers can be pretty hit or miss, but this one really worked for me!
I really enjoyed the folklore type element that was included. There is a small California mountain town that believes in a witch that will protect them from wildfires, but in order to do so needs sacrifices, very much reminiscent of the Blair witch project. I really enjoyed our main character Emma. I found her neurodivergence to be displayed very well, and her special interests/fangirl tendencies (specially around horror related subjects) made me more interested in the character. Probably my favourite aspect of the book was the blooming romance between Emma and her missing friend's sister Beck, and found it to be well paced throughout the novel!
if your looking for a quick YA thriller with subplots of myths and romance I would definitely recommend it!!!
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