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The Liars Beneath: A YA Romantic Suspense Novel
A romantically dark YA romantic suspense set in the backdrop of Iowa’s suspenseful farmlands.
After a tragic accident ends her best friend’s life, 17-year-old Becca Thompson succumbs to grief the only way she knows by wallowing in it. She’s a fragment of the person she once was—far too broken to enjoy the summer before her senior year. But when Ben McCain, her best friend’s older brother, returns home, Becca must face her new reality head on.
She isn’t interested in Ben’s games, especially since he abandoned his sister during the months leading up to her death. But when he begs for her help in uncovering the truth about what really happened the night of his sister’s death, Becca finds herself agreeing, hoping to clear up rumors swirling in the wake of her best friend's accident.
An unhinged ex-boyfriend, secret bucket lists, and garage parties in the place Becca calls home soon lead her to the answers she’s so desperate to unveil. But nobody is being honest, not even Ben. And the closer Becca gets to the truth—and to Ben—the more danger seems to surround her.
Clearing her best friend’s name was all she wanted to do, but Becca is quickly realizing that the truth she craves might be uglier than the lies her best friend kept.
After a tragic accident ends her best friend’s life, 17-year-old Becca Thompson succumbs to grief the only way she knows by wallowing in it. She’s a fragment of the person she once was—far too broken to enjoy the summer before her senior year. But when Ben McCain, her best friend’s older brother, returns home, Becca must face her new reality head on.
She isn’t interested in Ben’s games, especially since he abandoned his sister during the months leading up to her death. But when he begs for her help in uncovering the truth about what really happened the night of his sister’s death, Becca finds herself agreeing, hoping to clear up rumors swirling in the wake of her best friend's accident.
An unhinged ex-boyfriend, secret bucket lists, and garage parties in the place Becca calls home soon lead her to the answers she’s so desperate to unveil. But nobody is being honest, not even Ben. And the closer Becca gets to the truth—and to Ben—the more danger seems to surround her.
Clearing her best friend’s name was all she wanted to do, but Becca is quickly realizing that the truth she craves might be uglier than the lies her best friend kept.
332 pages, Hardcover
First published January 27, 2022
47 people are currently reading
706 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
September 17, 2021
THE LIARS BENEATH is a young adult dark thriller and romance about high school student Becca, whose best friend, Rose, dies under suspect circumstances. Rose's brother, Ben, wants to investigate what really happened, and from there, secrets in this small Iowa town are revealed.
I couldn't put this book down. I started reading it during my lunch hour, then sneak-read it during my work day, picked it up again as soon as i got home, and then read it until nighttime. The mystery surrounding Rose's death, the questions that arise, the tension between Becca and Ben, the small-farm town setting, are all brilliantly written and make this a page-turner. And that ending... phew! Let's just say that it's something I'd never expect to read in YA.
Heartbreaking, but thoughtful; disturbing, yet hopeful; beautiful, yet dark, you'll lose yourself in THE LIARS BENEATH. When you reach the last page, you'll be sad that it's over, unsettled (in the best way), and truly affected by this story that will stick with you forever.
I couldn't put this book down. I started reading it during my lunch hour, then sneak-read it during my work day, picked it up again as soon as i got home, and then read it until nighttime. The mystery surrounding Rose's death, the questions that arise, the tension between Becca and Ben, the small-farm town setting, are all brilliantly written and make this a page-turner. And that ending... phew! Let's just say that it's something I'd never expect to read in YA.
Heartbreaking, but thoughtful; disturbing, yet hopeful; beautiful, yet dark, you'll lose yourself in THE LIARS BENEATH. When you reach the last page, you'll be sad that it's over, unsettled (in the best way), and truly affected by this story that will stick with you forever.
October 20, 2021
THE LIARS BENEATH is a riveting new YA thriller full of unexpected twists, manipulation, and mystery. It was amazing! A great plot and the characters (especially Becca) are complex, suspicious, yet lovable and even funny at times. Overall, it was a fantastic read. I think it will appeal to both young adult and adult readers of the thriller/mystery genre. If you’re looking for a book with great writing and a twist you don’t see coming you’ll love THE LIARS BENEATH!
January 24, 2022
3.5 ⭐️
I really enjoyed this. A lot better than I thought I would. It was pretty easy to read yet confusing at some times. It felt more like a romance book than a thriller to me but I still had a good time reading it. The drama was everything in this. The amnesia part was a little unsettling I felt like it could’ve been done a little better. But I can see anyone who likes pretty little liars liking this
I really enjoyed this. A lot better than I thought I would. It was pretty easy to read yet confusing at some times. It felt more like a romance book than a thriller to me but I still had a good time reading it. The drama was everything in this. The amnesia part was a little unsettling I felt like it could’ve been done a little better. But I can see anyone who likes pretty little liars liking this
January 26, 2022
I was very lucky to be selected by Turn the Pages Tour as a tour host. thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this book. all the following opinions are unbiased and my own.*
The Liars Beneath is a YA mystery thriller that had me shivering by the end. The plot was amazing, and the number of twists and turns Heather put into it had my breath quickening and heart racing. I just couldn't be satisfied with the book. When I started reading it, I didn't think I would like it, but as the story progressed, I was keeping up with Ben and Becca.
I actually guessed the killer, but again, because of the numerous instances in the book that I NEVER expected to happen, the knowledge didn't make it less exciting. Becca was quite a good protagonist, showing strength, resilience and I'm a sweet girl but don't hurt me or you'll pay attitude. She had substance to her, which again, is rare in ya books.
Becca and Ben were probably the most generic part of this book, but I'm willing to let that go as their relationship did have me shipping them.
In this book of darkness, Becca's parents were a huge breath of relief. I loved the family relationships she had with both her parents. They were stern, caring, loving and realistic at the same time. It's easy to get caught up in the drama and suspense of a mystery book, but it's really hard keeping it grounded and realistic. I think Heather did a fantastic job of not turning TLB into a 'will never happen situation'.
TLB isn't for the weak of heart. Be sure to read the content warnings before you start reading. If you're into young adult mysteries and suspense, this book's perfect for you. It had a 13 reasons why and a Two Can Keep A Secret vibe going for it, which I gobbled up. Karen McManus and Holly Black fans will definitely enjoy it.
I'm surprised 2022 has just started, and I've already read my 3rd 5 star read of this year. Give it a go if mystery's your cup of tea. I would recommend to mature teens and adults alike.
The Liars Beneath is a YA mystery thriller that had me shivering by the end. The plot was amazing, and the number of twists and turns Heather put into it had my breath quickening and heart racing. I just couldn't be satisfied with the book. When I started reading it, I didn't think I would like it, but as the story progressed, I was keeping up with Ben and Becca.
I actually guessed the killer, but again, because of the numerous instances in the book that I NEVER expected to happen, the knowledge didn't make it less exciting. Becca was quite a good protagonist, showing strength, resilience and I'm a sweet girl but don't hurt me or you'll pay attitude. She had substance to her, which again, is rare in ya books.
Becca and Ben were probably the most generic part of this book, but I'm willing to let that go as their relationship did have me shipping them.
In this book of darkness, Becca's parents were a huge breath of relief. I loved the family relationships she had with both her parents. They were stern, caring, loving and realistic at the same time. It's easy to get caught up in the drama and suspense of a mystery book, but it's really hard keeping it grounded and realistic. I think Heather did a fantastic job of not turning TLB into a 'will never happen situation'.
TLB isn't for the weak of heart. Be sure to read the content warnings before you start reading. If you're into young adult mysteries and suspense, this book's perfect for you. It had a 13 reasons why and a Two Can Keep A Secret vibe going for it, which I gobbled up. Karen McManus and Holly Black fans will definitely enjoy it.
I'm surprised 2022 has just started, and I've already read my 3rd 5 star read of this year. Give it a go if mystery's your cup of tea. I would recommend to mature teens and adults alike.
October 23, 2021
(TWs at bottom of content)
The Liars Beneath is a twisted, dark YA thriller with a hint of young love. Each character has layers to them and feels like someone you’d be friends or neighbours with. Set in a small town in Iowa state where everyone knows everyone it’s hard to keep secrets but they do and some of them are deadly. Becca, our main character, has some of her own and discovers other peoples while on the quest to find out just what really happened to her best friend since childhood, Rose. But maybe some secrets are left unburied..
•
I genuinely liked this book and had fallen into a readers block to which this story yanked me out of it with all its twists and turns. Every so often I’d have to go and reread a page but even then I was so lost in the story I didn’t mind.
•
If you’re into YA, Thrillers, and secrets this is the read for you.
•
Disclaimer: This book was received for free as an Early Readers copy from Wise Wolf Books, the thoughts on this book are completely my honest opinion. Thank you for the opportunity to read it.
•
TWs:
Sexual assault, coercion, drug use, drinking, suicide
The Liars Beneath is a twisted, dark YA thriller with a hint of young love. Each character has layers to them and feels like someone you’d be friends or neighbours with. Set in a small town in Iowa state where everyone knows everyone it’s hard to keep secrets but they do and some of them are deadly. Becca, our main character, has some of her own and discovers other peoples while on the quest to find out just what really happened to her best friend since childhood, Rose. But maybe some secrets are left unburied..
•
I genuinely liked this book and had fallen into a readers block to which this story yanked me out of it with all its twists and turns. Every so often I’d have to go and reread a page but even then I was so lost in the story I didn’t mind.
•
If you’re into YA, Thrillers, and secrets this is the read for you.
•
Disclaimer: This book was received for free as an Early Readers copy from Wise Wolf Books, the thoughts on this book are completely my honest opinion. Thank you for the opportunity to read it.
•
TWs:
Sexual assault, coercion, drug use, drinking, suicide
November 15, 2021
I got the arc off of Netgalley, these opinions are my own. I think I was hooked from the very beginning with this book! Becca’s best friend Rose has died, everyone says it was suicide or an accident, but Rose’s brother doesn’t believe that. Together (reluctantly on Becca’s part) they will find out what happened to Rose. I liked the added touch of Rose and Becca’s Bucket List, adventures they wanted to have, and how those were connected to what was going on currently in Becca’s life! I also really enjoyed the relationship between Ben and Becca, I loved how they made fun of each other while both hiding secrets! Their relationship reminded me of how I am with everyone. I saw of the twists coming but others I didn’t quite see! I was hooked and couldn’t put it down! Heather Van Fleet did a fantastic job with this one, can’t wait to read it again!!
January 27, 2022
The Liars Beneath is a young adult thriller/romance about the mysterious and suspicious death of high school student Rose. Her best friend, Becca, and her brother, Ben, investigate the cause of her death and unimaginable secrets about their town are revealed.
This was a quick and easy read I thoroughly enjoyed. There were some parts that were a bit confusing and slightly predictable, but overall the book was a good read. It took until I was about 25% into the book that I really started to become invested in the book. Becca’s character was very frustrating and I felt her actions were a bit immature at times. I did see her character grow throughout the course of the book and I really think she became an interesting, relatable character.
This book was full of so many twists and turns. The pacing of the book was good and it was well-written in the sense that important, heavy subjects were dealt with in an appropriate manner. This was a very emotional read as we see relationships our main character Becca experienced. There are many possible triggers so warning to any readers.
I felt The Liars Beneath was more of a romance than a thriller, but enjoyable nonetheless. And that ending…. I’m so glad there was an epilogue to satisfy my curiosity about what would happen next.
Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was a quick and easy read I thoroughly enjoyed. There were some parts that were a bit confusing and slightly predictable, but overall the book was a good read. It took until I was about 25% into the book that I really started to become invested in the book. Becca’s character was very frustrating and I felt her actions were a bit immature at times. I did see her character grow throughout the course of the book and I really think she became an interesting, relatable character.
This book was full of so many twists and turns. The pacing of the book was good and it was well-written in the sense that important, heavy subjects were dealt with in an appropriate manner. This was a very emotional read as we see relationships our main character Becca experienced. There are many possible triggers so warning to any readers.
I felt The Liars Beneath was more of a romance than a thriller, but enjoyable nonetheless. And that ending…. I’m so glad there was an epilogue to satisfy my curiosity about what would happen next.
Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
January 15, 2022
I received a free digital ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
Becca Thompson is still reeling from the death of her best friend, Rose. Ben, Rose's brother, is right there with her, although he is determined to find out exactly what happened surrounding the suspicious circumstances of his sister's death. He is not convinced that the small Iowa town's rumors of "she got what she deserved" are true. He asks Becca for her help in uncovering the truth, and after some convincing, she agrees. Their investigation sets them both on a collision course with tough truths about who Rose really was — and with each other.
I enjoyed this book so much. Young adult thrillers are very hard to get right, in my opinion, and this book did it right. To start, the mechanics of this novel were amazing. I didn't notice a single typo, and the author's writing style is straightforward in advancing the plot and characters, but also incorporates figurative language and other descriptive tools to really pull the reader in. I was hooked from the very first page. The relationship and romance that blossoms is believable, respectable, and had me grinning from ear to ear at some moments. I don't always enjoy the "friends to lovers" trope, but this book did it in a way that had me rooting for the two characters.
Perhaps the only criticism I have of this novel is that some of the big reveals were a bit predictable. I can say I was not expecting the very last turn present in the last few chapters, and that I was very grateful the author included an epilogue to soothe my fears that all had been lost.
Overall, this is an amazing YA thriller that explores important themes of grief, abuse, and learning to trust again. I enjoyed this book so much and will be looking for Van Fleet's next release.
Trigger warnings: this book explores heavy themes, including grief, abusive relationships, teacher/student relationships, pedophilia, and teen pregnancy.
Thank you for allowing me to read this book before publication! This review has been crossposted to my Instagram, Goodreads, and Storygraph.
Becca Thompson is still reeling from the death of her best friend, Rose. Ben, Rose's brother, is right there with her, although he is determined to find out exactly what happened surrounding the suspicious circumstances of his sister's death. He is not convinced that the small Iowa town's rumors of "she got what she deserved" are true. He asks Becca for her help in uncovering the truth, and after some convincing, she agrees. Their investigation sets them both on a collision course with tough truths about who Rose really was — and with each other.
I enjoyed this book so much. Young adult thrillers are very hard to get right, in my opinion, and this book did it right. To start, the mechanics of this novel were amazing. I didn't notice a single typo, and the author's writing style is straightforward in advancing the plot and characters, but also incorporates figurative language and other descriptive tools to really pull the reader in. I was hooked from the very first page. The relationship and romance that blossoms is believable, respectable, and had me grinning from ear to ear at some moments. I don't always enjoy the "friends to lovers" trope, but this book did it in a way that had me rooting for the two characters.
Perhaps the only criticism I have of this novel is that some of the big reveals were a bit predictable. I can say I was not expecting the very last turn present in the last few chapters, and that I was very grateful the author included an epilogue to soothe my fears that all had been lost.
Overall, this is an amazing YA thriller that explores important themes of grief, abuse, and learning to trust again. I enjoyed this book so much and will be looking for Van Fleet's next release.
Trigger warnings: this book explores heavy themes, including grief, abusive relationships, teacher/student relationships, pedophilia, and teen pregnancy.
Thank you for allowing me to read this book before publication! This review has been crossposted to my Instagram, Goodreads, and Storygraph.
December 19, 2021
I received a copy of this book from Wise Wolf Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
3.5-4 stars
The Liars Beneath had me conflicted. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and the plot so much. However the beginning of the book started a little wonky for me. Becca in the first 30ish% of the book seems extremely immature for her age. She came off in those chapters as more of a 15 year old instead of an 18 year old. I get that she was grieving the loss of her friend but some of her behavior was a bit odd for someone of her age. I also felt like this book leaned more heavily towards the romance than the mystery surrounding Rose’s death, which I didn’t mind at all because it gave a little insight into trying to move forward after loss but it was presented in my opinion as more of a thriller with a side of romance.
Heather Van Fleet did an amazing job at keeping me guessing throughout the entire book. I was flip flopping back and forth between who I thought did what. I was able to guess a few details before they were revealed but for the most part I was surprised. Another thing I really enjoyed was the time shifts from the present to the past. It gave a better insight as to who Becca, Ben, Rose, Travis, and Adam were before Rose’s death. It also clues you in to suspects, motives, and exactly who the liars are. All in all I would love to read more from Heather Van Fleet in future and would recommend this to my friends and followers.
3.5-4 stars
The Liars Beneath had me conflicted. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and the plot so much. However the beginning of the book started a little wonky for me. Becca in the first 30ish% of the book seems extremely immature for her age. She came off in those chapters as more of a 15 year old instead of an 18 year old. I get that she was grieving the loss of her friend but some of her behavior was a bit odd for someone of her age. I also felt like this book leaned more heavily towards the romance than the mystery surrounding Rose’s death, which I didn’t mind at all because it gave a little insight into trying to move forward after loss but it was presented in my opinion as more of a thriller with a side of romance.
Heather Van Fleet did an amazing job at keeping me guessing throughout the entire book. I was flip flopping back and forth between who I thought did what. I was able to guess a few details before they were revealed but for the most part I was surprised. Another thing I really enjoyed was the time shifts from the present to the past. It gave a better insight as to who Becca, Ben, Rose, Travis, and Adam were before Rose’s death. It also clues you in to suspects, motives, and exactly who the liars are. All in all I would love to read more from Heather Van Fleet in future and would recommend this to my friends and followers.
November 3, 2021
This just didn't work for me. Didn't really care about the characters and it dragged a lot
January 19, 2022
I received this book as an ARC (advanced readers copy) through NetGalley and Wise Wolf Books in exchange for an honest review.
To begin, if you’re a lover of YA with a little thriller and romance mixed in, this is it. Overall, I liked the plot - even though at times it felt much more immature than I think it’s meant to be intended. However, it really picked up 1/3 of the way through and I ended up finishing this book in 2 days because the writing flowed so well. I felt like the characters were well developed for the most part (Ben was a favorite for me 😍), but I immediately knew what angle the story was taking midway through. It didn’t ruin the book for me, though. I’d say add this to your book list if it fits the genres you typically like - it was a winner for me 👍🏻
To begin, if you’re a lover of YA with a little thriller and romance mixed in, this is it. Overall, I liked the plot - even though at times it felt much more immature than I think it’s meant to be intended. However, it really picked up 1/3 of the way through and I ended up finishing this book in 2 days because the writing flowed so well. I felt like the characters were well developed for the most part (Ben was a favorite for me 😍), but I immediately knew what angle the story was taking midway through. It didn’t ruin the book for me, though. I’d say add this to your book list if it fits the genres you typically like - it was a winner for me 👍🏻
February 17, 2022
I’m a mess right now, emotionally rung out from this story. SO FREAKING GOOD!!!! I feel like I just got off of a VERY LONG Rollercoaster ride!!!
Van Fleet sure can write! I’m never let down by her books. This YA Suspense/Thriller/Mystery Romance is by far her best yet!!!
Van Fleet sure can write! I’m never let down by her books. This YA Suspense/Thriller/Mystery Romance is by far her best yet!!!
November 29, 2021
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
The Liars Beneath by Heather Van Fleet is a YA mystery and thriller that will appeal to fans of 13 Reasons Why and We Were Liars. The story revolves around 17 year-old Becca, whose best friend Rose recently died. Becca begins getting close to her best friend's older brother Ben, who has declared that he will find out the truth about what happened to Rose the night that she died. Will Becca and Ben find out the truth? How can they when everyone is keeping secrets?
Here is a gripping excerpt from Chapter 1, which is from Becca's point of view:
"Splinters tear at the undersides of my nails when I squeeze the church pew ahead of me. The raw skin burns, but I welcome the pain, needing it to distract me from the ache in my chest.
In front of me sits an old man who's scratching at his comb-over toupee... I huff, irritated because I can't see the front of the church around his oversized heada...not that I want to. Not when I know what's there.
Her coffin.
Her face.
The results of my biggest mistake."
Overall, The Liars Beneath is a YA mystery and thriller that is completely unputdownable. I couldn't stop reading until the end so that I could find out what happened to Rose. One highlight of this book is the nonstop action. The second half of this book is explosive scene followed by explosive scene, and it was refreshing to read a YA book that doesn't wait until the end to get exciting. If you're intrigued by the excerpt above, or if you're a fan of YA mysteries, I highly recommend that you check out this book when it comes out in January!
The Liars Beneath by Heather Van Fleet is a YA mystery and thriller that will appeal to fans of 13 Reasons Why and We Were Liars. The story revolves around 17 year-old Becca, whose best friend Rose recently died. Becca begins getting close to her best friend's older brother Ben, who has declared that he will find out the truth about what happened to Rose the night that she died. Will Becca and Ben find out the truth? How can they when everyone is keeping secrets?
Here is a gripping excerpt from Chapter 1, which is from Becca's point of view:
"Splinters tear at the undersides of my nails when I squeeze the church pew ahead of me. The raw skin burns, but I welcome the pain, needing it to distract me from the ache in my chest.
In front of me sits an old man who's scratching at his comb-over toupee... I huff, irritated because I can't see the front of the church around his oversized heada...not that I want to. Not when I know what's there.
Her coffin.
Her face.
The results of my biggest mistake."
Overall, The Liars Beneath is a YA mystery and thriller that is completely unputdownable. I couldn't stop reading until the end so that I could find out what happened to Rose. One highlight of this book is the nonstop action. The second half of this book is explosive scene followed by explosive scene, and it was refreshing to read a YA book that doesn't wait until the end to get exciting. If you're intrigued by the excerpt above, or if you're a fan of YA mysteries, I highly recommend that you check out this book when it comes out in January!
November 16, 2021
A YA thriller with romance sprinkled on top? Yes, please!
The day I started this book, I was pleasantly surprised and 100% hooked. Not only was the story line absolutely riveting, but the characters were multi-layered which kept me guessing what all would be revealed next.
Becca’s best friend, Rose, died under highly suspicious circumstances and Rose’s sexy brother, Ben, finally convinced Becca to help him investigate. You see, Rose had a bit of a reputation. She was wild and reckless and the small town of Iowa just believed her crazy ways were what caused her death.
But that wasn’t the case at all. There was, in fact, someone behind Rose’s death and seeing the mystery behind everything unfold had me completely enthralled and fascinated.
As we got to see a new side to Rose, I couldn’t help but dislike her somewhat. She was a little lost, yes, but the level of lies and betrayal were not those of a best friend. But despite everything, Becca still chose to look beyond Rose’s faults and be loyal to her, even after death.
Sometimes I felt as if Becca attracted a lot of the drama onto herself because, in my opinion, she acted doormat-like in one too many instances. But overall, I really did like her character and how things ended up for her as the book wrapped up. Especially, when it came to Ben and her. Did I mention I loved the romantic side of this book too? No? Because I lived for it!
All in all, THE LIARS BENEATH is an absolute must-read if you love YA mysteries or romantic thrillers.
The day I started this book, I was pleasantly surprised and 100% hooked. Not only was the story line absolutely riveting, but the characters were multi-layered which kept me guessing what all would be revealed next.
Becca’s best friend, Rose, died under highly suspicious circumstances and Rose’s sexy brother, Ben, finally convinced Becca to help him investigate. You see, Rose had a bit of a reputation. She was wild and reckless and the small town of Iowa just believed her crazy ways were what caused her death.
But that wasn’t the case at all. There was, in fact, someone behind Rose’s death and seeing the mystery behind everything unfold had me completely enthralled and fascinated.
As we got to see a new side to Rose, I couldn’t help but dislike her somewhat. She was a little lost, yes, but the level of lies and betrayal were not those of a best friend. But despite everything, Becca still chose to look beyond Rose’s faults and be loyal to her, even after death.
Sometimes I felt as if Becca attracted a lot of the drama onto herself because, in my opinion, she acted doormat-like in one too many instances. But overall, I really did like her character and how things ended up for her as the book wrapped up. Especially, when it came to Ben and her. Did I mention I loved the romantic side of this book too? No? Because I lived for it!
All in all, THE LIARS BENEATH is an absolute must-read if you love YA mysteries or romantic thrillers.
January 10, 2022
The Liar's Beneath, will definitely keep your attention. This was an easy read that flowed nicely between chapters. The character development was on point and this was definitely not a slow burn.
I love books that get straight to the point and don't play around with a plot or lead you in one direction and then come out with a twist that is far fetched. This book had perfect balance. I did not guess what was going on although I did have suspicions (I was wrong) and the ending left me satisfied.
I also loved that this was a suspenseful thriller but also had a little romance involved.
This story circulates around Becca. Becca recently lost her best friend to a tragically and unexpectedly . Enter Ben, her best friends older brother .
Becca has her own issues and resentment toward Ben. Becca believes that Ben abandoned his sister when she needed him most but when Ben asks Becca for her help uncovering the truth about what happened to his sister, how could she say no?
Some secrets are not meant to be told, how far will Becca go to find out the truth and maintain her best friends reputation?
Tune in January 27, 2022 to find out!
I love books that get straight to the point and don't play around with a plot or lead you in one direction and then come out with a twist that is far fetched. This book had perfect balance. I did not guess what was going on although I did have suspicions (I was wrong) and the ending left me satisfied.
I also loved that this was a suspenseful thriller but also had a little romance involved.
This story circulates around Becca. Becca recently lost her best friend to a tragically and unexpectedly . Enter Ben, her best friends older brother .
Becca has her own issues and resentment toward Ben. Becca believes that Ben abandoned his sister when she needed him most but when Ben asks Becca for her help uncovering the truth about what happened to his sister, how could she say no?
Some secrets are not meant to be told, how far will Becca go to find out the truth and maintain her best friends reputation?
Tune in January 27, 2022 to find out!
October 23, 2021
Thank you Netgalley and Wise Wolf Books for offering this book as a "Read Now" option! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Becca just lost her best friend and is having trouble handling grief and moving on. When Becca's best friend's brother comes back to town he asks her for help solving his sister's possible murder. Becca agrees unwillingly and not realizing the rabbit hole she just jumped into.
My review:
I'm glad this book is available as a Read Now option on Netgalley as this was what I was in the mood for: a twisty, possible murder mystery with realistic characters... just in time for Halloween. I felt heartbroken for Becca as she is trying to figure out her life without her best friend. Ben was a good addition and I liked the dynamic between him and Becca.
I liked this book and would recommend to anyone who has read There's Someone In Your House or All Your Twisted Secrets.
4.5 stars
Becca just lost her best friend and is having trouble handling grief and moving on. When Becca's best friend's brother comes back to town he asks her for help solving his sister's possible murder. Becca agrees unwillingly and not realizing the rabbit hole she just jumped into.
My review:
I'm glad this book is available as a Read Now option on Netgalley as this was what I was in the mood for: a twisty, possible murder mystery with realistic characters... just in time for Halloween. I felt heartbroken for Becca as she is trying to figure out her life without her best friend. Ben was a good addition and I liked the dynamic between him and Becca.
I liked this book and would recommend to anyone who has read There's Someone In Your House or All Your Twisted Secrets.
4.5 stars
December 28, 2021
Becca just lost her best friend and is struggling to make it through each day, except Becca is thrown into a web of lies that leaves her wondering was it suicide or was it murder? As Becca relentlessly digs deeper and deeper even she wonders how far she will have to go to find out the truth.
Thank you Net Galley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of this book. Although listed as a YA novel I thoroughly enjoyed it and feel that it is also suited for adult readers. The book was, at times, predictable but still an enjoyable read. The characters were well developed and I found myself wanting to read more to find out how the story was going to unfold.
Thank you Net Galley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of this book. Although listed as a YA novel I thoroughly enjoyed it and feel that it is also suited for adult readers. The book was, at times, predictable but still an enjoyable read. The characters were well developed and I found myself wanting to read more to find out how the story was going to unfold.
January 21, 2022
Wow. My head is spinning. It's very rare that I read a young adult thriller book so I was excited to read this one. It was so good. It was easy to read. Very fast paced. The twists and turns were very shocking but not outlandish. It had me on the edge of my seat.
Becca is trying to figure out what happened to her best friend. There are so many secrets and lies that get uncovered.. There are scary exes, awful parents, tragedy. There was even romance in this book that I wasn't expecting. I enjoyed it a lot. Highly recommend this book.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Wise Wolf Books for the ARC.
Becca is trying to figure out what happened to her best friend. There are so many secrets and lies that get uncovered.. There are scary exes, awful parents, tragedy. There was even romance in this book that I wasn't expecting. I enjoyed it a lot. Highly recommend this book.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Wise Wolf Books for the ARC.
January 9, 2022
I received a copy of this book from netgalley in exchange for my honest review. This book starts out a bit slow as you get to learn the characters and the storyline. It follows the main character Becca as she grieves the loss of her best friend, Rose. Rose’s brother, Ben, has questions as to how Rose died, was no one other than Rose herself to blame for her death as the police thought? The book flips back and forth between the past and the present. Through the past passages, you learn a lot more about Rose and the other characters. This young adult thriller had many intriguing twists and turns and was overall a great book.
January 29, 2022
I'm torn with giving this book 4 or 5 stars. I loved the whole idea of this book. Youngsters doing bad things, secrets, lies, daring stupid teenage stuff. And the twist at the end was excellent...every last character seems to be off their rocker. At the same time the stupidity of it all. Like there is no way those kids wouldn't have rated out their friends at a drop of a hat. Secrets like that don't stay hidden that long especially in a small town. And sometimes they made the stupidest decisions ever. But then again they are teens. 🤷♀️
November 2, 2021
I was hesitant about this from how it started off but it didn't take long for the story to pull me in. Unfortunately this was more romance instead of mystery and suspense which was a little disappointing, though the romance wasn't instant love so it was bearable. Despite the lack of mystery, the story kept me hooked until the end. Thank you NetGalley for an ARC.
September 23, 2022
dobrze, że nie kupiłam w papierze.
December 9, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
(I finished this book on Tuesday, it's now Thursday, and I honestly can't remember much of anything that happened - that alone should lower this to a 1 star read, but I'l keep it at two, because why not.)
I’m stuck between 2 and 3 stars. Not because I think this is an amazing book, but because it did keep me reading, but the back of the book blurb and the actual story are two totally different things. I’m going to settle on 2 stars because had the book been sold as something else, I’d been more on board for the 3 star read it was. But I was expecting something dark and mysterious and tension filled and those things were never delivered.
There will be minor (out of context, untagged) spoilers below. There will also be spelling errors (because I alwys miss at least one).
I’m also really, really, bad at being concise, so if you’re looking for a short review, this isn’t it.
I’m pulling a line from the blurb from NetGalley since GoodReads (Amazon) is having a hissy fit right now apparently.
A romantically dark YA thriller set in the backdrop of Iowa’s suspenseful farmlands.
This is not a thriller. There are various debates as to what a ‘thriller’ really is. Some say a ‘ticking clock’ others say ‘high stakes’ and there are lots of others. But for me, if my heart-rate doesn’t increase, if I’m not reading as fast as humanly possible to know what happens next. It ain’t a thriller. And this book is VERY FIRMLY not a thriller.
Let’s touch on the DARK aspects of the book. CW: The book really doesn’t hold back in the slightest in jumping into ‘dark’ things, but they were all handled a bit clumsily for me.
The book being set in the 'farmlands' really doesn't matter either. It could have been a relatively small town anywhere in the USA and it would have likely all played out the same. The setting is not what makes book unique by any stretch of the imagination.
THE PLOT
The biggest problem with this story is it takes over 50% of the book for the book to even get started. The first 50% is fodder for the romance (and honestly, had this been a light-hearted romance between Becca (Main Character) and Ben (Love Interest), this book honestly would have probably landed closer to 4 star read. I loved the stupid banter between the two. I liked that they teased each other as a cover for their feelings (even if Becca was a d*ck about it for 90% of the time). I LOVED that they had an established history and that the buildup on their relationship had weight to it. It wasn’t perfect. Individually, I hated both characters multiple times throughout the story, and I wish we could have cut out at least half of Becca’s wishy-washy feelings about Ben, but overall the romance between the two (until the epilogue), I found kind of refreshing, in a way.
However, that’s about all the positives I have. The mystery aspect of this book is negligible. 90% of the book is Becca wiffle-waffling over Ben and her feelings. 4% is Becca stumbling upon Rose’s secrets. The final 6% is me rolling my eyes and trying not to throw my eReader across the room every time Becca made a stupid decision that probably would have ended a lot worse in real life.
MINOR SPOILERS TO FOLLOW (regarding Becca’s stupid decisions)
*
*
*
*
Becca is an unlikeable character (I hope on purpose). She’s petty and whiny and stupid. SO STUPID. At one point Becca gets hit over the head and knocked unconscious for hours. Her parents are worried. Ben is worried. Becca? Not worried at all. Until she needs to be. She’s paranoid about shadows and sounds and whatever. But as soon as someone has information about Rose she sneaks out of her house, does another stupid thing and somehow ends up alive at the end of it.
Later, Becca is nearly killed. She only gets away through luck. Her parents are terrified that something is going to happen to her. They hardly let her out of their sight. Until the plot conveniently allows it to happen. (I might honestly be a bit rusty on the order things happened, but regardless, Becca has been put in a dangerous situation already and her parents are VERY WORRIED). Becca and her parents in a parking lot. Becca sees someone she wants to talk to (someone she absolutely knows she shouldn’t talk to because they are a bad person). Becca lies and tells her parents she needs to pee. Mom tries to go with Becca. Becca throws a mini-tantrum and her parents let her go. Becca mees this not good person OUTSIDE the building and her parents are just casually sitting in the car not paying her any attention. Like. I’m sorry. You daughter was almost murdered and you’re not going to watch for her to enter and exit the building? Okay. (Granted, this is her parents being idiots, but she was an idiot to talk to the person in the first place).
*
*
*
*
END OF MINOR SPOILERS
The last few chapters of this are so high in the WTF-ery that I almost want to knock the book down a star just because of how it all played out. I’m spoiler tagging all of this, because seriously, it will ruin the book if you want to read it.
I can really see the potential in this book. I did enjoy moments of it. But it also felt like Becca never really had deep emotions about what happened. She cried and told us she felt empty (which would be expected) but It all felt a bit lacking. The story dragged quite a bit and if you cut out the romance you’d be left with maybe a couple thousand words of the mystery and maybe a couple hundred of ‘thriller’ material. The guilty people were guilty from the first time they were on the page. There was one ‘twist’ didn’t quite see coming, but I knew the people who had to play into it. Again, the book is pretty heavy handed with everyone involved (which is about 3 people), so there’s not a lot of room to throw suspicion around.
I wish Becca would have done more on her own to try to figure out what happened. Maybe Rose could have left a journal or clues or something about what she’d been up to and how it affected her. I wish Becca would have confronted Ben about things sooner rather than letting things fester for so long (and going back and forth on her feelings and even questioning his own feelings)
MINOR SPOILER; but Ben does confess his love for Becca at one point and she’s giddy about it, but then a few pages later she’s mentally accusing him of being a liar and using her. It honestly made my head hurt because all her reasoning was silly at best and stupid at worst. Anyway. If you’re writing a novel, please, just let your characters talk to each other. If someone is keeping a secret for the sake of keeping a secret, find a different way to reveal that information. And PLEASE STOP letting characters waffle on their feelings for multiple chapters of the same dang thing.
If a few things played out differently, I could have seen myself picking this up again, because I really did like the banter between Becca and Ben. But overall not something I’d read again.
(I finished this book on Tuesday, it's now Thursday, and I honestly can't remember much of anything that happened - that alone should lower this to a 1 star read, but I'l keep it at two, because why not.)
I’m stuck between 2 and 3 stars. Not because I think this is an amazing book, but because it did keep me reading, but the back of the book blurb and the actual story are two totally different things. I’m going to settle on 2 stars because had the book been sold as something else, I’d been more on board for the 3 star read it was. But I was expecting something dark and mysterious and tension filled and those things were never delivered.
There will be minor (out of context, untagged) spoilers below. There will also be spelling errors (because I alwys miss at least one).
I’m also really, really, bad at being concise, so if you’re looking for a short review, this isn’t it.
I’m pulling a line from the blurb from NetGalley since GoodReads (Amazon) is having a hissy fit right now apparently.
A romantically dark YA thriller set in the backdrop of Iowa’s suspenseful farmlands.
This is not a thriller. There are various debates as to what a ‘thriller’ really is. Some say a ‘ticking clock’ others say ‘high stakes’ and there are lots of others. But for me, if my heart-rate doesn’t increase, if I’m not reading as fast as humanly possible to know what happens next. It ain’t a thriller. And this book is VERY FIRMLY not a thriller.
Let’s touch on the DARK aspects of the book. CW: The book really doesn’t hold back in the slightest in jumping into ‘dark’ things, but they were all handled a bit clumsily for me.
The book being set in the 'farmlands' really doesn't matter either. It could have been a relatively small town anywhere in the USA and it would have likely all played out the same. The setting is not what makes book unique by any stretch of the imagination.
THE PLOT
The biggest problem with this story is it takes over 50% of the book for the book to even get started. The first 50% is fodder for the romance (and honestly, had this been a light-hearted romance between Becca (Main Character) and Ben (Love Interest), this book honestly would have probably landed closer to 4 star read. I loved the stupid banter between the two. I liked that they teased each other as a cover for their feelings (even if Becca was a d*ck about it for 90% of the time). I LOVED that they had an established history and that the buildup on their relationship had weight to it. It wasn’t perfect. Individually, I hated both characters multiple times throughout the story, and I wish we could have cut out at least half of Becca’s wishy-washy feelings about Ben, but overall the romance between the two (until the epilogue), I found kind of refreshing, in a way.
However, that’s about all the positives I have. The mystery aspect of this book is negligible. 90% of the book is Becca wiffle-waffling over Ben and her feelings. 4% is Becca stumbling upon Rose’s secrets. The final 6% is me rolling my eyes and trying not to throw my eReader across the room every time Becca made a stupid decision that probably would have ended a lot worse in real life.
MINOR SPOILERS TO FOLLOW (regarding Becca’s stupid decisions)
*
*
*
*
Becca is an unlikeable character (I hope on purpose). She’s petty and whiny and stupid. SO STUPID. At one point Becca gets hit over the head and knocked unconscious for hours. Her parents are worried. Ben is worried. Becca? Not worried at all. Until she needs to be. She’s paranoid about shadows and sounds and whatever. But as soon as someone has information about Rose she sneaks out of her house, does another stupid thing and somehow ends up alive at the end of it.
Later, Becca is nearly killed. She only gets away through luck. Her parents are terrified that something is going to happen to her. They hardly let her out of their sight. Until the plot conveniently allows it to happen. (I might honestly be a bit rusty on the order things happened, but regardless, Becca has been put in a dangerous situation already and her parents are VERY WORRIED). Becca and her parents in a parking lot. Becca sees someone she wants to talk to (someone she absolutely knows she shouldn’t talk to because they are a bad person). Becca lies and tells her parents she needs to pee. Mom tries to go with Becca. Becca throws a mini-tantrum and her parents let her go. Becca mees this not good person OUTSIDE the building and her parents are just casually sitting in the car not paying her any attention. Like. I’m sorry. You daughter was almost murdered and you’re not going to watch for her to enter and exit the building? Okay. (Granted, this is her parents being idiots, but she was an idiot to talk to the person in the first place).
*
*
*
*
END OF MINOR SPOILERS
The last few chapters of this are so high in the WTF-ery that I almost want to knock the book down a star just because of how it all played out. I’m spoiler tagging all of this, because seriously, it will ruin the book if you want to read it.
I can really see the potential in this book. I did enjoy moments of it. But it also felt like Becca never really had deep emotions about what happened. She cried and told us she felt empty (which would be expected) but It all felt a bit lacking. The story dragged quite a bit and if you cut out the romance you’d be left with maybe a couple thousand words of the mystery and maybe a couple hundred of ‘thriller’ material. The guilty people were guilty from the first time they were on the page. There was one ‘twist’ didn’t quite see coming, but I knew the people who had to play into it. Again, the book is pretty heavy handed with everyone involved (which is about 3 people), so there’s not a lot of room to throw suspicion around.
I wish Becca would have done more on her own to try to figure out what happened. Maybe Rose could have left a journal or clues or something about what she’d been up to and how it affected her. I wish Becca would have confronted Ben about things sooner rather than letting things fester for so long (and going back and forth on her feelings and even questioning his own feelings)
MINOR SPOILER; but Ben does confess his love for Becca at one point and she’s giddy about it, but then a few pages later she’s mentally accusing him of being a liar and using her. It honestly made my head hurt because all her reasoning was silly at best and stupid at worst. Anyway. If you’re writing a novel, please, just let your characters talk to each other. If someone is keeping a secret for the sake of keeping a secret, find a different way to reveal that information. And PLEASE STOP letting characters waffle on their feelings for multiple chapters of the same dang thing.
If a few things played out differently, I could have seen myself picking this up again, because I really did like the banter between Becca and Ben. But overall not something I’d read again.
August 12, 2022
The Liars Beneath is a YA thriller/mystery written by Heather Van Fleet. I received a free advanced reader's copy from Wise Wolf Books in exchange for an honest review.
This book was a very fast read. I wanted to know what was going to happen next, and was eager to unwrap the mystery.
The pacing was quite good. It felt like the story was progressing at a reasonable pace. The book deals with heavy subjects, like grief, loss of a loved one, new relationships, abusive relationships, and finding yourself. I think a lot of younger readers will relate to Becca, the MC, as she is a typical teenage girl with insecurities trying to find herself after the devastating loss of her best friend, Rose. Having lived as the tame one in the best friendship, to her best friend's reckless/adventurous nature, she comes to learn more about what chances are worth taking and what are not.
As the book progresses, you see Becca's life in two timelines: past and present. You get to delve into her relationships with her best friend and her first boyfriend. Both relationships have problems, to say the least. Trigger warning for readers that there is a lot of discussion of an emotionally abusive relationship in this book. The way Becca handles it, however, is quite good and shows an element of strength and self love.
Becca, at times, is a very frustrating main character. She sometimes makes choices that makes me want to scream at her. I think this is well written in that sometimes, teenagers do things that you wouldn't do or recommend. It was authentic to the character. You get to see growth in her character throughout the book.
And the ending.... damn. That was something.
Thank you to Wise Wolf Books for a fun read.
This book was a very fast read. I wanted to know what was going to happen next, and was eager to unwrap the mystery.
The pacing was quite good. It felt like the story was progressing at a reasonable pace. The book deals with heavy subjects, like grief, loss of a loved one, new relationships, abusive relationships, and finding yourself. I think a lot of younger readers will relate to Becca, the MC, as she is a typical teenage girl with insecurities trying to find herself after the devastating loss of her best friend, Rose. Having lived as the tame one in the best friendship, to her best friend's reckless/adventurous nature, she comes to learn more about what chances are worth taking and what are not.
As the book progresses, you see Becca's life in two timelines: past and present. You get to delve into her relationships with her best friend and her first boyfriend. Both relationships have problems, to say the least. Trigger warning for readers that there is a lot of discussion of an emotionally abusive relationship in this book. The way Becca handles it, however, is quite good and shows an element of strength and self love.
Becca, at times, is a very frustrating main character. She sometimes makes choices that makes me want to scream at her. I think this is well written in that sometimes, teenagers do things that you wouldn't do or recommend. It was authentic to the character. You get to see growth in her character throughout the book.
And the ending.... damn. That was something.
Thank you to Wise Wolf Books for a fun read.
November 2, 2022
Wise wolf books reached out to me and sent me an electronic arc in exchange for a review. Release date 1.27.22
** 3.5 rounded to 4.
This book was okay! It wasn’t my fav, it wasn’t my least fav.
It gave me major pretty little liar vibes, especially Rose. She reminded me a lot of Alison. Rose is the wild child who has a secret life, while Becca is the shy, timid girl who doesn’t really know her best friend like she thinks she’s does.
Becca is currently struggling through a deep depression after losing her best friend, and I think some scenes touched on the depiction of grief rather well.
I don’t necessarily think it’s a thriller, it’s definitely a dark mystery with a lot of mature topics. I think the author did a good job on touching on them tho.
I could have done without the relationship between Becca, and Roses brother, Ben.
Ben made me cringe - a lot. I felt like we just jumped into their relationship and it more like a romance at the beginning then it did a mystery.
The characters were written well, and did have surprise elements I wasn’t expecting. The twists within the story were also surprising in my opinion!
** 3.5 rounded to 4.
This book was okay! It wasn’t my fav, it wasn’t my least fav.
It gave me major pretty little liar vibes, especially Rose. She reminded me a lot of Alison. Rose is the wild child who has a secret life, while Becca is the shy, timid girl who doesn’t really know her best friend like she thinks she’s does.
Becca is currently struggling through a deep depression after losing her best friend, and I think some scenes touched on the depiction of grief rather well.
I don’t necessarily think it’s a thriller, it’s definitely a dark mystery with a lot of mature topics. I think the author did a good job on touching on them tho.
I could have done without the relationship between Becca, and Roses brother, Ben.
Ben made me cringe - a lot. I felt like we just jumped into their relationship and it more like a romance at the beginning then it did a mystery.
The characters were written well, and did have surprise elements I wasn’t expecting. The twists within the story were also surprising in my opinion!
January 16, 2022
You think you know...
When you think you've got it figured out, more flabbergasting stuff is thrown at you spinning it all around!
Definitely a good suspenseful thriller!
This book pulled me in right away and I couldn't and didn't want to put it down until the mystery of Rose's death is all out there. Becca and Rose's brother Ben are getting closer to uncovering truths that are terrifying and uncomfortable but must be brought to light to have the whole picture and clear up all the nasty rumors surrounding Rose and her death.
This is a great gripping tale that will have your jaw dropping more than once.
(I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley.)
When you think you've got it figured out, more flabbergasting stuff is thrown at you spinning it all around!
Definitely a good suspenseful thriller!
This book pulled me in right away and I couldn't and didn't want to put it down until the mystery of Rose's death is all out there. Becca and Rose's brother Ben are getting closer to uncovering truths that are terrifying and uncomfortable but must be brought to light to have the whole picture and clear up all the nasty rumors surrounding Rose and her death.
This is a great gripping tale that will have your jaw dropping more than once.
(I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley.)
February 2, 2022
This is a fantastic read!! There’s a twist nonstop and the characters are wonderful together. Such creativity in a plot I wouldn’t expect, you won’t put the book down till you know what happens.
January 31, 2022
Gripping
I don't usually read YA because it takes me a while to get into the story. That was not the case with this one. I was hooked right away. I couldn't put it down. The mystery and twists kept coming just when you think you know what happened.
I don't usually read YA because it takes me a while to get into the story. That was not the case with this one. I was hooked right away. I couldn't put it down. The mystery and twists kept coming just when you think you know what happened.
January 9, 2022
When everyone is a liar, what even is the truth?
My heart RACED in this romantic thriller, where we're taken on a dark, twisty path for the truth. Chilling, gripping, & intense, Heather brought her A game in her YA debut!
My heart RACED in this romantic thriller, where we're taken on a dark, twisty path for the truth. Chilling, gripping, & intense, Heather brought her A game in her YA debut!
January 28, 2022
The Liars Beneath is my first YA read since high school and this book was so goid. This isn't just YA, but it's an angsty read with suspense and tangled web of lies and secrets. I'm a huge Heather Van Fleet fan and I can't wait to see what's next.
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