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Killing Sadie
Not yet published
Expected 4 Aug 26Perfect for fans of How to Survive Your Murder and Dead Girls Can’t Tell Secrets, this young adult thriller unspools the truth behind a tragic murder through multiple unreliable narrators who all have secrets to keep.
Here’s what we do know: there was another infamous barn party at the McClain family farm last night, and things went horribly wrong. By the end of the night, there were two dead bodies in the old barn: seventeen-year-old Sadie Cooper and her killer, Mason Vreeland. The murder was heartbreakingly witnessed by Sadie’s twin sister, Jayne, and Sadie died in her arms. Mason was killed by Sadie’s boyfriend, Ben, in an attempt to save Sadie.
Aside from figuring out Mason’s motive, it should be an open and shut case.
But it’s not.
The story unfolds just after the murders, and Jayne, Ben, and Sadie’s best friend, Liz, are telling the cops what transpired at the party and the events leading up to it. But little details don’t match. And those little details start to add up to big discrepancies. But who’s lying, and why?
The shocking truth is revealed in the third act, when the POV shifts to victim Sadie herself, in the days leading up to the party. Witness exactly what happened—and see if you can piece it all together. Because poor Sadie totally missed what was right in front of her.
Here’s what we do know: there was another infamous barn party at the McClain family farm last night, and things went horribly wrong. By the end of the night, there were two dead bodies in the old barn: seventeen-year-old Sadie Cooper and her killer, Mason Vreeland. The murder was heartbreakingly witnessed by Sadie’s twin sister, Jayne, and Sadie died in her arms. Mason was killed by Sadie’s boyfriend, Ben, in an attempt to save Sadie.
Aside from figuring out Mason’s motive, it should be an open and shut case.
But it’s not.
The story unfolds just after the murders, and Jayne, Ben, and Sadie’s best friend, Liz, are telling the cops what transpired at the party and the events leading up to it. But little details don’t match. And those little details start to add up to big discrepancies. But who’s lying, and why?
The shocking truth is revealed in the third act, when the POV shifts to victim Sadie herself, in the days leading up to the party. Witness exactly what happened—and see if you can piece it all together. Because poor Sadie totally missed what was right in front of her.
304 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication August 4, 2026
About the author
Rachel Peterson
1 book25 followersRachel Peterson graduated from Miami University of Ohio with a degree in English and creative writing. Born and raised in Ohio, she started her career in advertising before spending nearly a decade in New York City as a marketing executive for technology companies. An avid traveler, Rachel now splits her time between Manhattan and the Midwest, where she lives with her husband Ken, their dog Olive, and horse Hope.
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April 30, 2026✨ 𝖆𝖗𝖈 𝖆𝖓𝖓𝖔𝖚𝖓𝖈𝖊𝖒𝖊𝖓𝖙 ✨
GUESS WHAT
GUESS WHAT
March 19, 2026
OMG THIS BOOK IS INSANE!!! I received this advanced copy at NTTBF and could not wait to read it, so here’s my review!
This murder mystery is sooo compelling! I was hooked at the very beginning!! The timeline follows a story where a teenage girl, Sadie, is murdered. The three main characters, Liz, Sadie’s best friend, Jayne, Sadie’s twin sister, and Ben, Sadie’s boyfriend, are all being questioned for details of how Sadie’s murder occurred. But, sure enough, details aren’t lining up. Who is telling the truth, and who is lying?
The twists and turns of this book are THRILLING, the details of each point of view are INSANE, and so much more! This book releases in August, and I HIGHLY suggest you read Killing Sadie!!
This murder mystery is sooo compelling! I was hooked at the very beginning!! The timeline follows a story where a teenage girl, Sadie, is murdered. The three main characters, Liz, Sadie’s best friend, Jayne, Sadie’s twin sister, and Ben, Sadie’s boyfriend, are all being questioned for details of how Sadie’s murder occurred. But, sure enough, details aren’t lining up. Who is telling the truth, and who is lying?
The twists and turns of this book are THRILLING, the details of each point of view are INSANE, and so much more! This book releases in August, and I HIGHLY suggest you read Killing Sadie!!
May 14, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review. I really liked this story, there were a few things that kinda bothered me (no parents in the interrogation room and other basic police procedure things)
The story was fun and kept me guessing up until the end. I would definitely recommend to others.
The story was fun and kept me guessing up until the end. I would definitely recommend to others.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This was such an entertaining way of telling a murder. Seeing all the point of views and putting together what actually happened. The only thing I didn’t care for was the ending and how things played out. I highly recommend this for people who liked Pretty Little Liars (the book series), it had similar vibes with drama and finding out who the killer was.
(Note: I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the publisher/author for the opportunity.)
POV: Multiple, First Person
Spice Level: (mentioned, closed door)
Sad Level: 💧💧💧
Would I Recommend? Yes
Favorite Character(s): n/a
Emojis Based on Vibes: 🔪🍻🤐
⚠️ CONTENT WARNINGS
Graphic: Death, Infidelity, Toxic relationship, Murder, Alcohol
Moderate: Cursing, Mental illness, Toxic friendship
Minor: Alcoholism, Misogyny, Sexual content, Violence, Injury/Injury detail
(Note: I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the publisher/author for the opportunity.)
POV: Multiple, First Person
Spice Level: (mentioned, closed door)
Sad Level: 💧💧💧
Would I Recommend? Yes
Favorite Character(s): n/a
Emojis Based on Vibes: 🔪🍻🤐
⚠️ CONTENT WARNINGS
Graphic: Death, Infidelity, Toxic relationship, Murder, Alcohol
Moderate: Cursing, Mental illness, Toxic friendship
Minor: Alcoholism, Misogyny, Sexual content, Violence, Injury/Injury detail
May 19, 2026
Amazing debut. This is the kind of book I wish had existed when I was younger. The characters are well thought out and complicated — a reminder of how hard high school can be and a spot-on example of growing up in a small town. Cannot wait to see what the author does next.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley and Simon Pulse for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
If you like messy, twisty mysteries where everyone is lying and no one is a good person, “Killing Sadie” by Rachel Peterson is definitely one to pick up.
The setup sounds simple at first: Sadie is dead, a loner named Mason supposedly killed her, and then Sadie’s boyfriend killed Mason in self-defense. Case closed, right? Yeah, not even close. Almost immediately, it’s clear things don’t add up, and the whole “open-and-shut case” starts unraveling fast.
The story is told through three perspectives—Sadie’s twin sister, her best friend, and her boyfriend—all being interrogated by the police. And honestly, this is where the book really shines. Everyone is telling the same events, but in completely different ways. The little inconsistencies? So good! It turns into this puzzle where you’re constantly trying to figure out who’s lying, who’s leaving things out, and what actually happened.
And trust me—everyone is hiding something.
Character-wise, yeah, don’t expect to love these people. The boyfriend is cheating (and still somehow jealous), the best friend is messy but at least a little self-aware, and the sister is super judgmental. They’re all flawed, sometimes frustrating, but that’s kind of the point. It makes the story feel more like a true crime-style case where no one is fully innocent.
That said, the beginning can feel a little slow. A lot of the early stuff focuses on teenage drama leading up to the party with relationships, secrets, family issues, and it can drag a bit before things really pick up. But once the interrogation starts digging deeper and the contradictions pile up, it gets way more interesting.
One thing I really liked was how interactive it felt as a reader. You’re basically playing detective the whole time, catching discrepancies like who talked to who, what actually happened at the party, and what doesn’t line up. It keeps you on edge because you know something bigger is going on.
And then the final stretch hits.
Without spoiling anything, you eventually get Sadie’s perspective, and that’s when everything clicks into place. It completely reframes what you thought you knew and exposes just how deep the lies go. The twist? Genuinely unexpected and really well done.
But the ending is also kind of brutal in a different way. It wraps up the truth of what happened, but not necessarily in a neat, satisfying “everything is resolved” way. The investigation itself feels a bit rushed and leaves some loose ends, which might frustrate you if you like clear closure.
Overall, this is a fast-paced, twisty YA thriller that leans heavily into unreliable narrators and messy secrets. It’s not perfect, like how there are some pacing issues and a few things that require suspending disbelief, but it’s super engaging and keeps you guessing until the very end. If you’re into true crime vibes, multiple POVs, and stories where the truth is buried under layers of lies, this is a really solid (and addictive) read.
If you like messy, twisty mysteries where everyone is lying and no one is a good person, “Killing Sadie” by Rachel Peterson is definitely one to pick up.
The setup sounds simple at first: Sadie is dead, a loner named Mason supposedly killed her, and then Sadie’s boyfriend killed Mason in self-defense. Case closed, right? Yeah, not even close. Almost immediately, it’s clear things don’t add up, and the whole “open-and-shut case” starts unraveling fast.
The story is told through three perspectives—Sadie’s twin sister, her best friend, and her boyfriend—all being interrogated by the police. And honestly, this is where the book really shines. Everyone is telling the same events, but in completely different ways. The little inconsistencies? So good! It turns into this puzzle where you’re constantly trying to figure out who’s lying, who’s leaving things out, and what actually happened.
And trust me—everyone is hiding something.
Character-wise, yeah, don’t expect to love these people. The boyfriend is cheating (and still somehow jealous), the best friend is messy but at least a little self-aware, and the sister is super judgmental. They’re all flawed, sometimes frustrating, but that’s kind of the point. It makes the story feel more like a true crime-style case where no one is fully innocent.
That said, the beginning can feel a little slow. A lot of the early stuff focuses on teenage drama leading up to the party with relationships, secrets, family issues, and it can drag a bit before things really pick up. But once the interrogation starts digging deeper and the contradictions pile up, it gets way more interesting.
One thing I really liked was how interactive it felt as a reader. You’re basically playing detective the whole time, catching discrepancies like who talked to who, what actually happened at the party, and what doesn’t line up. It keeps you on edge because you know something bigger is going on.
And then the final stretch hits.
Without spoiling anything, you eventually get Sadie’s perspective, and that’s when everything clicks into place. It completely reframes what you thought you knew and exposes just how deep the lies go. The twist? Genuinely unexpected and really well done.
But the ending is also kind of brutal in a different way. It wraps up the truth of what happened, but not necessarily in a neat, satisfying “everything is resolved” way. The investigation itself feels a bit rushed and leaves some loose ends, which might frustrate you if you like clear closure.
Overall, this is a fast-paced, twisty YA thriller that leans heavily into unreliable narrators and messy secrets. It’s not perfect, like how there are some pacing issues and a few things that require suspending disbelief, but it’s super engaging and keeps you guessing until the very end. If you’re into true crime vibes, multiple POVs, and stories where the truth is buried under layers of lies, this is a really solid (and addictive) read.
January 11, 2026
If you don’t know me, My name is Paige, I am OBSESSED with anything true crime and young adult. Killing Sadie combines my two favorite things in one book, and I was excited to pick it up.
The story follows three teenagers: The bestfriend, The twin sister, and the boyfriend all in separate interrogation rooms, recounting the night (and days prior) that their, sister, girlfriend and best friend Sadie was murdered.
I enjoyed the set up in the beginning, but what I didn’t expect was basically the entire story to take place in the thoughts of three teens sitting in interrogation rooms. Don’t get me wrong, I love the aspect of the room, BUT when the writing changed into the italicized format what was supposed to be them recounting a memory to help the investigators ended up being mixed up in personal thoughts and feelings. There was not a clear line between what the teenagers were speaking to the investigators and what they were thinking. At one point, the investigator replied to something I thought was strictly in the head of one of the characters and that threw me off.
True crime is my favorite because it makes me feel as though I’m an investigator myself putting all of the puzzle pieces together while I’m reading. With that being said, I loved the fact that the entire time I was reading I kind of had an idea of what had happened and why. But there was a twist that ended up changing everything. I LOVE that, I very much enjoy being surprised while reading. BUT I will say by the time the twist was revealed and the book had ended I felt very unsatisfied. I had so many questions and I felt as though the ending was super rushed.
Many young adult books focus on gushy teenage feelings and its easy to get lost in that when reading this genre. Rachel Peterson made me feel as though I was reading an adult novel. Although I knew the characters were teenagers I didn’t feel bored and annoyed with childish themes, she did a great job fleshing out these characters considering they spent much of their time at an interrogation room table.
Although I was disappointed with the set up, the ending had me hooked and made me want much more, so you can bet I’ll be picking up anything Rachel Peterson in the future.
The story follows three teenagers: The bestfriend, The twin sister, and the boyfriend all in separate interrogation rooms, recounting the night (and days prior) that their, sister, girlfriend and best friend Sadie was murdered.
I enjoyed the set up in the beginning, but what I didn’t expect was basically the entire story to take place in the thoughts of three teens sitting in interrogation rooms. Don’t get me wrong, I love the aspect of the room, BUT when the writing changed into the italicized format what was supposed to be them recounting a memory to help the investigators ended up being mixed up in personal thoughts and feelings. There was not a clear line between what the teenagers were speaking to the investigators and what they were thinking. At one point, the investigator replied to something I thought was strictly in the head of one of the characters and that threw me off.
True crime is my favorite because it makes me feel as though I’m an investigator myself putting all of the puzzle pieces together while I’m reading. With that being said, I loved the fact that the entire time I was reading I kind of had an idea of what had happened and why. But there was a twist that ended up changing everything. I LOVE that, I very much enjoy being surprised while reading. BUT I will say by the time the twist was revealed and the book had ended I felt very unsatisfied. I had so many questions and I felt as though the ending was super rushed.
Many young adult books focus on gushy teenage feelings and its easy to get lost in that when reading this genre. Rachel Peterson made me feel as though I was reading an adult novel. Although I knew the characters were teenagers I didn’t feel bored and annoyed with childish themes, she did a great job fleshing out these characters considering they spent much of their time at an interrogation room table.
Although I was disappointed with the set up, the ending had me hooked and made me want much more, so you can bet I’ll be picking up anything Rachel Peterson in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Everyone says Mason Vreeland killed Sadie Cooper. With three witnesses making the same accusation, the murder should be an open-and-shut case—until their stories begin to unravel. Killing Sadie by Rachel Peterson hooked me immediately as I delved into the details of Sadie’s life leading up to her final night.
The story is told from the perspective of Sadie’s twin sister Jaynie, her best friend Liz, and her boyfriend Ben. Each of them is being interrogated by the police and tells their version of the events of that night. Of course, just to keep readers on their toes, each of them also has their own secrets to hide.
What I Liked: The multiple perspectives are the perfect vehicle for this story, constantly forcing the reader to decipher who is telling the truth. The characters are well-written but intentionally unlovable. Ben has a volatile temper, Jaynie acts like a superior know-it-all, and Liz is the quintessential wild child. I found myself constantly switching theories on who had the motive and means to kill Sadie. It’s rare for a book to keep me on edge until the very last page.
Readers who love twisty true crime-style mysteries will want to snatch up Killing Sadie.
This review first appeared on YA Books Central and can be found here: https://yabookscentral.com/killing-sa...
The story is told from the perspective of Sadie’s twin sister Jaynie, her best friend Liz, and her boyfriend Ben. Each of them is being interrogated by the police and tells their version of the events of that night. Of course, just to keep readers on their toes, each of them also has their own secrets to hide.
What I Liked: The multiple perspectives are the perfect vehicle for this story, constantly forcing the reader to decipher who is telling the truth. The characters are well-written but intentionally unlovable. Ben has a volatile temper, Jaynie acts like a superior know-it-all, and Liz is the quintessential wild child. I found myself constantly switching theories on who had the motive and means to kill Sadie. It’s rare for a book to keep me on edge until the very last page.
Readers who love twisty true crime-style mysteries will want to snatch up Killing Sadie.
This review first appeared on YA Books Central and can be found here: https://yabookscentral.com/killing-sa...
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks SimonTeen and Netgalley for this eARC, these opinions are my own. This was such a thrill! One night, at a party, Sadie is killed. Her attacker, Mason, is also killed by Sadie’s boyfriend Ben. He was trying to protect Sadie and killed Mason in self-defense. Sadie’s twin sister Jayne was also there and Sadie’s best friend Liz showed up shortly after. Now the three are being questioned by the police. They’re trying to figure out what happened, but how reliable are their stories? After all it was a party how much had they been drinking? I mean everyone knows Liz is the party girl, Jayne is the girl who’s above the whole high school experience, and Ben’s the king of the school (plus his father is probably also a murderer). Each tells the story of how the night unfolded from their own perspective. But what are they hiding? What secrets are they covering up? And why would Mason kill Sadie? A fast paced thriller that kept me hooked! The secrets, lies, manipulation, all played out well in this one! Rachel Peterson’s book is packed with suspense, twists and turns, and an ending that I did not see coming and left me shook!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 stars
I received an advance copy via NetGalley and found it to be quite a compelling read. It's YA, focusing on three high school seniors who just experienced the murder of two others, but it's pretty focused on the case at hand rather than tons of other YA tropes.
I mostly enjoyed the choice to tell the story via law enforcement interviews, but the amount of the book written in italics was a bit over the top. I also enjoyed the multiple perspectives, including Sadie's (the victim herself) at the end. That said, another reviewer mentioned being glad it wasn't "hear from Sadie's ghost," but it was a bit unclear to me what it WAS, exactly. Written in first person past tense did kind of give the impression of "ghost."
The story and changing viewpoints kept me engaged throughout, but the ending happened quickly and there were some loose ends remaining. I need to know more about the "why" behind what happened, and while it wasn't necessarily required for the story, I kind of want to get to the bottom of Ben's dad maybe killing his own brother. And WHAT HAPPENED TO THESE PEOPLE after the fact?! Did the truth come out?
I received an advance copy via NetGalley and found it to be quite a compelling read. It's YA, focusing on three high school seniors who just experienced the murder of two others, but it's pretty focused on the case at hand rather than tons of other YA tropes.
I mostly enjoyed the choice to tell the story via law enforcement interviews, but the amount of the book written in italics was a bit over the top. I also enjoyed the multiple perspectives, including Sadie's (the victim herself) at the end. That said, another reviewer mentioned being glad it wasn't "hear from Sadie's ghost," but it was a bit unclear to me what it WAS, exactly. Written in first person past tense did kind of give the impression of "ghost."
The story and changing viewpoints kept me engaged throughout, but the ending happened quickly and there were some loose ends remaining. I need to know more about the "why" behind what happened, and while it wasn't necessarily required for the story, I kind of want to get to the bottom of Ben's dad maybe killing his own brother. And WHAT HAPPENED TO THESE PEOPLE after the fact?! Did the truth come out?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Killing Sadie will keep readers on their toes from beginning to end. Sadie, a teenage girl, discovers that someone is targeting her and that she may be in serious danger. What starts as an innocent barn party on a fateful weekend brings Sadie, her twin sister Jayne, her boyfriend, and her best friend together. These are the people she trusts most—or so she thinks.
She must figure out who it is trying to kill her before there are terrifying consequences. Although the book does not feature distinct cultural or racial representation, the characters are developed in a broadly relatable way that may allow many readers to identify with them.
Killing Sadie excels at building suspense. Rachel Peterson has created a real page-turner with continual twists and exciting moments that keep readers engaged. The short chapters, each told from a different character’s point of view, help the story move quickly and add to the mystery. This style also makes Killing Sadie a great choice for reluctant readers who enjoy fast-paced thrillers.
She must figure out who it is trying to kill her before there are terrifying consequences. Although the book does not feature distinct cultural or racial representation, the characters are developed in a broadly relatable way that may allow many readers to identify with them.
Killing Sadie excels at building suspense. Rachel Peterson has created a real page-turner with continual twists and exciting moments that keep readers engaged. The short chapters, each told from a different character’s point of view, help the story move quickly and add to the mystery. This style also makes Killing Sadie a great choice for reluctant readers who enjoy fast-paced thrillers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Sadie has been murdered and her boyfriend, Ben, has killed the murderer. Two deaths, three witnesses with very different stories. What has happened to Sadie and who should we believe?
Fans of Beth is Dead or How to Survive Your Murder will enjoy this unreliable witness murder mystery. Track the timeline and each person's story to see who you think is telling the truth? Or are they all lying?
Opinions below, but may result in a SPOILER if you solve mysteries quickly....
I enjoyed the format of the chapters, alternating POVs. I also enjoyed having Sadie's side of the story told at the end (which validated my suspicions). I felt for some characters and straight of hated others. I personally was a little disappointed at the end - only because I wanted justice. I knew this was coming, but it still made me so sad/mad. Overall - the book made me feel and I like that in a book. So take a chance with this one, maybe you'll like the ending better than I did.
***NetGalley ARC Review***
Fans of Beth is Dead or How to Survive Your Murder will enjoy this unreliable witness murder mystery. Track the timeline and each person's story to see who you think is telling the truth? Or are they all lying?
Opinions below, but may result in a SPOILER if you solve mysteries quickly....
I enjoyed the format of the chapters, alternating POVs. I also enjoyed having Sadie's side of the story told at the end (which validated my suspicions). I felt for some characters and straight of hated others. I personally was a little disappointed at the end - only because I wanted justice. I knew this was coming, but it still made me so sad/mad. Overall - the book made me feel and I like that in a book. So take a chance with this one, maybe you'll like the ending better than I did.
***NetGalley ARC Review***
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
3 ⭐️
⋆˙⟡ tropes ⟡˙⋆
🤫 secret romance
🔪 lies and twists
💬 multiple povs
⋆˙⟡ thoughts ⟡˙⋆
now while i read this in one sitting because it’s fast paced, im not sure how i feel??? i predicted most of the plot and the ending left me feeling disappointed sadly (like what happened next???). the book is told in interviews (which i enjoyed) with the three characters and the detective however… a lot of the book is told in italics which was a bit much. if you want a fast paced ya thriller, i’d give it a go!
⋆˙⟡ synopsis ⟡˙⋆
parties at the old mcclain family farm are legendary but one night, it turned to tragedy when two teenagers are found dead. as morning breaks, three witnesses (central to sadie’s life): her twin sister jayne, her best friend liz, and her boyfriend ben sit down with the police at an attempt to make sense of what happened. on the surface, sadie’s life was a dream but as they dig deeper and cracks show, they see she’s made a few enemies along the way.
⋆˙⟡ tropes ⟡˙⋆
🤫 secret romance
🔪 lies and twists
💬 multiple povs
⋆˙⟡ thoughts ⟡˙⋆
now while i read this in one sitting because it’s fast paced, im not sure how i feel??? i predicted most of the plot and the ending left me feeling disappointed sadly (like what happened next???). the book is told in interviews (which i enjoyed) with the three characters and the detective however… a lot of the book is told in italics which was a bit much. if you want a fast paced ya thriller, i’d give it a go!
⋆˙⟡ synopsis ⟡˙⋆
parties at the old mcclain family farm are legendary but one night, it turned to tragedy when two teenagers are found dead. as morning breaks, three witnesses (central to sadie’s life): her twin sister jayne, her best friend liz, and her boyfriend ben sit down with the police at an attempt to make sense of what happened. on the surface, sadie’s life was a dream but as they dig deeper and cracks show, they see she’s made a few enemies along the way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Killing Sadie by Rachel Peterson was messy, addictive, and impossible to look away from in the best way. This is one of those thrillers where everyone feels suspicious, morally questionable, or just one bad decision away from disaster and somehow that makes it even more entertaining.
The pacing moved quickly, the tension kept building, and the social dynamics felt sharp and unsettling. Peterson leans hard into manipulation, ambition, and toxic relationships, creating a cast of characters that made me equal parts invested and irritated. I kept thinking I had the story figured out, only to realize I absolutely did not.
That said, the ending frustrated me more than I expected. I’m still sitting with it, and not entirely in a good way. But honestly? The ride there was so compelling that I can’t deny I had a great time reading it.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The pacing moved quickly, the tension kept building, and the social dynamics felt sharp and unsettling. Peterson leans hard into manipulation, ambition, and toxic relationships, creating a cast of characters that made me equal parts invested and irritated. I kept thinking I had the story figured out, only to realize I absolutely did not.
That said, the ending frustrated me more than I expected. I’m still sitting with it, and not entirely in a good way. But honestly? The ride there was so compelling that I can’t deny I had a great time reading it.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley for the eARC of Killing Sadie!
Okay, I'm on a bit of a kick with YA thrillers right now, and let me tell you, this one is different and it does not disappoint . I was thoroughly hooked and loved that the entire story took place in about 4 hours during interviews and recounted flashbacks. I loved getting to find the inconsistencies of the stories myself and felt so excited when the state detective mentioned one that I had caught too. That's right folx, this girl is not an armchair detective, but a kindle detective!
The pacing was quick. The development was twisty and full of turns. And the last 10% or so will leave you feeling all sorts of waysssss !
If you want a fun quick read that will grip you by the throat and have you thanking it, give this book a shot!
Okay, I'm on a bit of a kick with YA thrillers right now, and let me tell you, this one is different and it does not disappoint . I was thoroughly hooked and loved that the entire story took place in about 4 hours during interviews and recounted flashbacks. I loved getting to find the inconsistencies of the stories myself and felt so excited when the state detective mentioned one that I had caught too. That's right folx, this girl is not an armchair detective, but a kindle detective!
The pacing was quick. The development was twisty and full of turns. And the last 10% or so will leave you feeling all sorts of waysssss !
If you want a fun quick read that will grip you by the throat and have you thanking it, give this book a shot!
May 9, 2026
This was a good one for sure!! This book has such an interesting construct, you hear from three of the major key players in the crime and then in the final act of the story you finally hear from the victim herself.
Sadie and Mason are both dead. Sadie was killed by Mason and Mason was killed by Sadie’s boyfriend as he tried to defend her but if that’s all true then why are the cops taking a deeper look at what’s going on?
As we continue to read, we realize that pretty much nobody in this story is a reliable narrator or witness to what happened with the exception of Sadie when she finally enters the chat and tells us what really happened. This book had me guessing and postalizing about what happened and who was involved and I had some wild theories going. All in all it was a very enjoyable read. I think my students will really like this one.
Sadie and Mason are both dead. Sadie was killed by Mason and Mason was killed by Sadie’s boyfriend as he tried to defend her but if that’s all true then why are the cops taking a deeper look at what’s going on?
As we continue to read, we realize that pretty much nobody in this story is a reliable narrator or witness to what happened with the exception of Sadie when she finally enters the chat and tells us what really happened. This book had me guessing and postalizing about what happened and who was involved and I had some wild theories going. All in all it was a very enjoyable read. I think my students will really like this one.
May 18, 2026
First, I was to say “thank you” to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book prior to publication for an honest review.
This was a different POV than I have read for a mystery/ thriller and I enjoyed it. You got the first person POV from each suspect while they are interviewed by the police. It was entertaining and kept my interest peaked. I did guess who dunnit early, but I was second guessing myself throughout based on the tricks the author threw in. I would recommend this as a quick and easy mystery/thriller.
Why did I knock off a star? I wanted more from the wrap up of the story. I liked that the wrap up was the POV of the victim, but once it happened I just felt like it ended so abruptly. There was not enough given of the Jayne/Evan relationship, give me more!
This was a different POV than I have read for a mystery/ thriller and I enjoyed it. You got the first person POV from each suspect while they are interviewed by the police. It was entertaining and kept my interest peaked. I did guess who dunnit early, but I was second guessing myself throughout based on the tricks the author threw in. I would recommend this as a quick and easy mystery/thriller.
Why did I knock off a star? I wanted more from the wrap up of the story. I liked that the wrap up was the POV of the victim, but once it happened I just felt like it ended so abruptly. There was not enough given of the Jayne/Evan relationship, give me more!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2026
A definite must-read for fans of We Were Liars, and for a nostalgic throwback (hear me out) those who grew up in the 90s as Sweet Valley High fans. It’s like if Jessica, Elizabeth, and their friends were a bit more gritty, real, and honestly a whole lot more interesting.
You know how when you read a book and you can immediately picture the TV series? This is one of those books that the writing paints the picture so clearly it’s like you’re watching it in your head. And it does a great job capturing the inner thoughts and complicated dynamics of teenagers.
Fast read - only reason I didn’t fly through it in one day is I had to work. Add to your list for when it’s released this summer as a great beach read thriller.
You know how when you read a book and you can immediately picture the TV series? This is one of those books that the writing paints the picture so clearly it’s like you’re watching it in your head. And it does a great job capturing the inner thoughts and complicated dynamics of teenagers.
Fast read - only reason I didn’t fly through it in one day is I had to work. Add to your list for when it’s released this summer as a great beach read thriller.
May 4, 2026
For a debut YA thriller/mystery, I’m impressed. I enjoyed the storyline being told from the POV of three teenagers who are being interviewed by detectives after two other teens are killed at a party. With variations in their accounts of what happened, it has you questioning if any of these unreliable narrators could be telling the truth. Have to say that I really appreciated being able to read the victim’s POV without it being told by their ghost. Admittedly, the end did frustrate me but that’s probably because I enjoy books with endings that are wrapped up with a pretty bow.
Highly recommend for YA readers, I think they’ll be hooked and taken by surprise by the twists.
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc in exchange for an honest review*
Highly recommend for YA readers, I think they’ll be hooked and taken by surprise by the twists.
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc in exchange for an honest review*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a solid YA thriller/mystery with plenty of focus on the storyline rather than typical YA tropes.
Two teens are dead, and we are left to unravel the mystery by listening in to three friends/siblings of the victims while they are interrogated.
What I loved what how we had to see through each interrogated teen's lies, and they all had them. Unreliable and all unlikeable, you will change your mind about "who did it" several times over the story.
The ending is sort of "eh" and I would have loved some follow up on what happened to everyone, but this kept me entertained the entire time. Plus, that cover- it's great!
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster's Children Publishing for an e-ARC.
Two teens are dead, and we are left to unravel the mystery by listening in to three friends/siblings of the victims while they are interrogated.
What I loved what how we had to see through each interrogated teen's lies, and they all had them. Unreliable and all unlikeable, you will change your mind about "who did it" several times over the story.
The ending is sort of "eh" and I would have loved some follow up on what happened to everyone, but this kept me entertained the entire time. Plus, that cover- it's great!
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster's Children Publishing for an e-ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was unique in that the whole thing takes place in an interrogation room and the story told via flashbacks and answering the police questions. There were a few elements that seemed unnecessary like Ben’s dad’s backstory and Detective Budd joining the case.
This was very fast-paced, and I tore through it quickly b/c I was hooked from the beginning. I was suspicious of the person who turned out to be the killer, but I wasn’t certain. And I do love an unhinged motive, plus that final reveal was totally unexpected. Loved it.
I look forward to more from this author.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC.
This was very fast-paced, and I tore through it quickly b/c I was hooked from the beginning. I was suspicious of the person who turned out to be the killer, but I wasn’t certain. And I do love an unhinged motive, plus that final reveal was totally unexpected. Loved it.
I look forward to more from this author.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. I really enjoyed the way Killing Sadie was written. The multiple POVs and interrogation-style storytelling kept things moving and made it feel like I was piecing the mystery together alongside the characters.
I truly thought I had everything figured out… and I was completely wrong. The twists and turns definitely got me. While I can’t say I necessarily liked any of the characters, they still kept me invested, and I was hooked the entire time trying to figure out the truth. Overall, a really engaging thriller that kept me guessing until the end.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. I really enjoyed the way Killing Sadie was written. The multiple POVs and interrogation-style storytelling kept things moving and made it feel like I was piecing the mystery together alongside the characters.
I truly thought I had everything figured out… and I was completely wrong. The twists and turns definitely got me. While I can’t say I necessarily liked any of the characters, they still kept me invested, and I was hooked the entire time trying to figure out the truth. Overall, a really engaging thriller that kept me guessing until the end.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Simon Teen for my arc!
This book was wild. i went into it completely blind and was pleasantly surprised by how much i enjoyed it. As the story progressed, i kept trying to guess what actually happened to Sadie and had no idea until you literally get her perspective and the ending left me speechless. Definitely a story i'm not sure i'd pick up again but definitely one that stays with me.
ALSO CAN SOMEONE ASK RACHEL PETERSON IF LIZ GOT THERAPY? because she was a real ride or die friend.
This book was wild. i went into it completely blind and was pleasantly surprised by how much i enjoyed it. As the story progressed, i kept trying to guess what actually happened to Sadie and had no idea until you literally get her perspective and the ending left me speechless. Definitely a story i'm not sure i'd pick up again but definitely one that stays with me.
ALSO CAN SOMEONE ASK RACHEL PETERSON IF LIZ GOT THERAPY? because she was a real ride or die friend.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.65
I'm torn here because it was an enjoyable read, which has to be at least part of the point, but...The breadcrumb trail leading you to the outcome was less breadcrumb and more giant misshapen loaves of sourdough. As it's intended for a younger audience, I can kind of live with that, except dies a younger audience need all of the sex and violence? On the other hand (I'm up to at least three now), said sex and violence were more implied than overt, so...maybe?
I'm torn here because it was an enjoyable read, which has to be at least part of the point, but...The breadcrumb trail leading you to the outcome was less breadcrumb and more giant misshapen loaves of sourdough. As it's intended for a younger audience, I can kind of live with that, except dies a younger audience need all of the sex and violence? On the other hand (I'm up to at least three now), said sex and violence were more implied than overt, so...maybe?
April 6, 2026
This was a good ya mystery/thriller. I liked the concept this book and how the story was told through multiple POVs and timelines. I appreciated how the mystery was told through police interrogations with the main characters, but the amount of the book that was written in italics felt a bit much. Overall this was a fun young adult.
Thank you to @simonteen for the gifted copy.
Thank you to @simonteen for the gifted copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The premise of this book was quite interesting. Apart from flowy and easy writing, this book unfortunately failed to uphold my attention. It would have been easier if we got to know the intent and nature of the characters which would explain why they did what they did.
But overall this was a great debut book with promising plotline .
2.75 ⭐
Thankyou NetGalley for providing the ARC!
But overall this was a great debut book with promising plotline .
2.75 ⭐
Thankyou NetGalley for providing the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 ⭐
This book pulled me out of a reading slump! It’s definitely a YA, and I don’t usually read that genre much, but it was so good. I honestly did not expect the ending at all. The story kept me hooked, and I really enjoyed this author’s writing style. I can’t wait to see what else she comes out with 🫶🏻
This book pulled me out of a reading slump! It’s definitely a YA, and I don’t usually read that genre much, but it was so good. I honestly did not expect the ending at all. The story kept me hooked, and I really enjoyed this author’s writing style. I can’t wait to see what else she comes out with 🫶🏻
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you for the ARC Simon & Shuster!
I can't believe this was a DEBUT!? I couldn't put it down!!! I loved this book and it had me hooked from the very beginning. I think this is will be a great book to read in the fall and I definitely recommend this.
I can't believe this was a DEBUT!? I couldn't put it down!!! I loved this book and it had me hooked from the very beginning. I think this is will be a great book to read in the fall and I definitely recommend this.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If Gaslight, Gatekeep, and Girlboss were the prime suspects in a murder investigation.
The ending pissed me off so much but I'm still giving 4 stars because it was a fun and fast paced journey to get there.
The ending pissed me off so much but I'm still giving 4 stars because it was a fun and fast paced journey to get there.
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April 6, 2026rtc
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