It's possible I just wasn't in the mood for this, but I struggled to get through. I liked the boarding school setting and that the people dying were the top students, which gave a little extra thrill since you knew who would be the next target. What I didn't care for were the characters, who all seemed too similar for me to tell apart and I thought the killer was pretty obvious.

This is fairly short and quick paced, so if you're in the mood for a YA thriller, you may want to give it a shot.

I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All opinions are my own. Thank you to Delacorte Press and NetGalley for the copy.

A shivery, twisty thriller of a YA murder mystery, set in a secluded boarding school where someone is murdering students in a secret society. It will keep you guessing until the very end!

Incredibly fast paced, I could not put this down! YA vibe, but still extremely enjoyable for an adult. Spooky atmosphere, private school, secret societies and a great setup for a sequel. Would definitely recommend and would love to read more by this author!!

3.5/5

This was a fun quick read. I wish there was more information as to why each character knew things and why they did everything.

I'm a sucker for a boarding school/campus based murder mystery. The plot revolves around Liz, who attends a prestigious boarding school where people start dying one-after-one in ways that become clear are not accidents. She and her friends start doing their own investigating, worried that they might be next.

It took me a hot minute to get into it, and for once the “who” was whom I thought it was, but there was a nice little twist. Overall, this was good YA read.

Fun and twisty, Win Lose Kill Die is the perfect pick for teens who are looking for some thrills and chills in their reading. The book is light on worldbuilding and character development, focusing mostly on building steady suspense among this friend group at school. Who is the killer and who is their next victim?

Perfect for fans of One of Us is Lying!

Being accepted to Morton Academy was a dream come true for Liz Williams. Morton has a reputation of accepting only the best of the best, scouting all the schools in England every year for fifty smart, talented students and enrolling them on scholarship regardless of means or background. For Liz, being at Morton is a chance to escape her less than ideal home situation, even if she’s reluctant to tell her fellow students the full truth of her life outside Morton.

Most of the other kids are just as excited as she is to be there, even if their parents are much prouder of them than hers are. As new student Cole asks:

QUOTE
“Were your parents the same? I mean, you got in here last year; you must be super clever. Not like us wait-list dweebs. I bet they were proud.”

“Yeah.” I think of the day I sat in my head teacher’s office with Dr Patel. Dad had stayed in bed and Mom was pacing back and forth outside, one of her so-called friend’s dramas playing out on the phone she held in one hand as she took long puffs off a cigarette with the other. We watched her from the window and I realized she wasn’t even slightly aware that she was late for our meeting.

“Yeah,” I repeat. “They were thrilled too. Anyway!” I force brightness into my voice. “How’s your first week been?[“]
END QUOTE

Another reason for Liz’s determination to put up a good front is a recent school tragedy. Cole has only been able to enroll at Morton following the accidental death of former head girl Morgan, in a boating accident that traumatized Liz and a good number of their fellow students. Never mind that Morgan had been something of a bully. Hopefully, the appointment of her friend Jameela to the position of head girl will make things better. But when Jameela receives a threatening note and is subsequently poisoned, the student body can’t help but wonder if someone is deliberately targeting the most powerful girls in school.

One of Liz’s best friends, Taylor, is next in line for the prestigious position. Being head girl at Morton isn’t just about resume-building: students granted that title are virtually guaranteed entry, tuition and board to any university of their choice, worldwide, due to the influence and finances of the academy’s vast web of alumni. It’s a coveted spot, but no one would really kill in order to gain that kind of advantage, would they?

Liz has no interest in testing that theory by putting Taylor’s life on the line. As she and her friends – including her new love interest, Cole – investigate, they discover disturbing truths about Morton and its people. Sure, Liz and her inner circle all know about Morton’s secret society. As the best of the best, they’ve all been initiated into the club’s gothic pageantry, with Jameela herself presiding over the ritual that elevated Taylor to the position of her own deputy back when she was still alive:

QUOTE
Taylor keeps her head held high as Jameela takes the knife. It’s an old blade, as old as the body they are flanking, I’d guess, and just as encrusted in jewels. The blade is kept sharp, though, something that is evident as Jameela slices into her own palm, and then Taylor’s upturned one. They both step toward the skeleton, and, as the glass case is opened for them, they each lightly grasp an arm bone, smearing their blood upon the blood of hundreds of previous pledges.
END QUOTE

But what truly is the point of all these elaborate rituals and secrecy? As Liz and her friends dig further into the history of Morton, they discover secrets with stunning repercussions for the present day. Will the students be able to survive their tenure at the academy, even as a serial killer lurks in the shadows, waiting to murder them one by one?

I was completely lulled by Cynthia Murphy’s propulsive writing into guessing that all the wrong people were responsible for the murders in this smart Young Adult thriller set in the seemingly perfect boarding school. Like Liz, I wanted so much to believe in Morton as an escape route, even as the academy’s picture-perfect facade was crumbling right before our eyes. I loved the final reveal of the killer, even as I was impressed by Ms Murphy’s skill at both misdirection and sheer human empathy.

Something bad is happening to students at Morton Academy. Specifically to members of a secret society with promising futures. Ruled as accidents at first, but some begin to suspect there is more to it and decide they need to look into what is happening. This is a fast paced thriller, with some horror flick vibes. The story throws a fair number of twists, some I saw coming, some I didn’t. Would probably make for a fun limited series for one of the streaming services out there. Thanks so much to the publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read an ARC of Win Lose Kill Die.

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/win-lose-kill-die-cynthia-murphy/1140139287?ean=9780593705476&bvnotificationId=72b53aa8-8e33-11ee-a4f4-0a68b6564fbf&bvmessageType=REVIEW_APPROVED&bvrecipientDomain=gmail.com#review/264449169

WIN LOSE KILL DIE is a suspenseful thriller set at a private high school where the student leaders of a secret society get murdered one by one. There is suspicion from the start, with twists and turns as the main character and her friends try to figure out who the murderer is before it's too late. Definitely recommended to fans of One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus and A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson.

This story has lots of red herrings with all its twists and turns. One culprit was too obvious so I knew it wasn't her, but I wasn't completely sure which of the others it was until the end. I had an original guess but then wavered since I couldn't figure out if it was who I thought it was for sure. It's fairly rare for a story to keep me guessing until almost the end, so that was well done.

I liked the group of characters as they each had their own unique personalities. This affected how they interacted with each other and how they began figuring things out. There were some one-dimensional side characters, but the main ones were well developed. I liked the friendships and the sweet romance that were weaved through the story, but that didn't overtake it. The suspense takes center stage as it should, while there were also other things going on.

The story is somewhat violent and bloody as the murders continue. If you're a bit squeamish, this won't be for you. As more people died, characters that I had started to know better, it made me sad, so definitely some feels in this one. There's a bit of a cliffhanger at the end, which I very much appreciated. It meant this book didn't tie up in a perfectly, pretty bow, which I felt fit the story quite well.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was a suspenseful thriller with some feels, likable characters, and enough twists and turns to keep readers guessing. Definitely a book to grab and an author to follow if this is your kind of read.

Content: Some mild swearing, underage drinking, innuendo and suggestive content, bloody violence.
Source: I received a complimentary copy NetGalley through TBR and Beyond Tours, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Must Read Today!


Greetings, Cynthia Murphy, it's a pleasure to connect with you through the pages of "Win Lose Kill Die." As a newcomer to the YA literary realm, I've found myself captivated by your storytelling prowess. Although this may not mark your debut in the literary landscape, "Win Lose Kill Die" has served as an excellent initiation for me. Your ability to craft a compelling narrative has undeniably won me over, earning this book a well-deserved five-star rating in my literary journey.
Navigating the corridors of "Win Lose Kill Die" felt like an enthralling journey into the heart of Morton Academy, a prestigious institution where brilliance opens doors to futures paved in gold. As a recent initiate into the YA literary realm, I found myself spellbound by your storytelling prowess.

The narrative unfolds within the hallowed halls of Morton Academy, where the promise of a brighter future beckons to the brightest students. The secret society of Jewel and Bone casts its shadows, and from its members emerge the coveted positions of head girl and head boy—gateways to a funded future education. However, beneath this facade of academic ambition lies a darker undercurrent, as mysterious deaths, initially dismissed as tragic accidents, weave a sinister web. A pattern emerges: each victim held the esteemed position of head student or deputy head student, and whispers of a cult that haunted the campus a quarter-century ago linger.

"Win Lose Kill Die" brings a macabre delight, reminiscent of the thrill found in the twists and turns of a season of Riverdale. The narrative doesn't shy away from drama, delivering a perfect dose befitting a tale of secret societies. What stands out is the well-crafted characters, breaking free from teen drama stereotypes and contributing depth to the narrative. The unexpected twist, unveiled towards the clear end, adds a refreshing layer to the storytelling.

Yet, amidst the enjoyment, a few elements stood out, flirting with the line between on-the-nose and nostalgic. The groundskeeper dubbed "Creepy Billy," an apparent homage to Billy Loomis from Scream, felt like a nod that might elude those unfamiliar with the iconic film. Similarly, the ignorance of Charles Manson among the characters, save for the true crime enthusiast, raised eyebrows, creating a generational disconnect that, at times, pulled me from the narrative.

Despite these minor hiccups, the overall experience was thoroughly enjoyable. My gratitude extends to Netgalley and Scholastic for the ARC, a key that unlocked a tale I'll undoubtedly recommend and perhaps gift to those in my life. If you're considering a journey into the intriguing world crafted by Cynthia Murphy, the link below awaits your exploration.

Graduating from Morton Academy can be a stepping stone to a bright future especially if you’re a member of the inner circle of the secret society there, but only if you live long enough to graduate. And that might not be as easy as it sounds. There have been a number of death. Merely accidents or is there more to it all? Care to guess, lol? More to it of course! There are also a few fun nods that make it clear Ms. Murphy is a bit of a movie buff, (no spoilers though I’m sure plenty will catch it) and while I could complain about a few things, for the most part an intriguing story, some interesting characters, and a twisty plot made this one a fun read. I’d like to thank Random House Children's, Delacorte Press, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an eARC of Win Lose Kill Die.

https://www.amazon.com/review/RO1NR3GGPS03K/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

Thanks to Random House Children’s Books, NetGalley, and author Cynthia Murphy for allowing me to review this wonderful book. I do enjoy a great dark academia book and this book felt right to me. I’m always a sucker for dark academia with a dash of bad. This book is full of great images of how you really do need to worry about what goes bump in the night. Excellent read for Holly Jacksn

This was an awesome ya thriller. The plot twists were going left & right, had me thinking of thing then turns it around & I'm completely wrong. I love that in a book. It's super fast paced, the author does an amazing job at keeping you engaged in the story & wanting more. I can't wait to read more from this author!
Thank you!

Win Lose Kill Die follows the students of Morton Academy which is a school full of high achievers. Soon a series of murders start happening and they are determined to figure out what is going on before another person ends up dead.

I have read other books by this author and really liked them. But man this one was not for me. This book was so predictable and I found myself bored. Also, this is a YA book and I read a lot of YA. But this book was too young for me. The characters were so immature It did not have enough of a thriller vibe for me. It was a very fast read. But I would not suggest this one.

Cynthia Murphy's "Win Lose Kill Die" promised an explosive new addition to the YA thriller genre, drawing readers into the cutthroat world of Morton Academy where academic excellence is a coveted prize, and the stakes are higher than ever. While the novel offers moments of suspense and a unique take on the high-school slasher trope, it falls short of achieving greatness, earning it a modest three-star review.

The novel's premise is undeniably intriguing, with the prestigious Morton Academy serving as a chilling backdrop for a series of murders targeting the school's brightest students. Murphy successfully builds a sense of urgency and tension, creating an environment where the pressure to succeed is not only academic but also a matter of life and death. The concept of a high-stakes academic setting adds depth to the narrative, offering a fresh perspective to the thriller genre.

However, the execution of the plot leaves room for improvement. The pacing, at times, feels uneven, with moments of intense action followed by slower, less engaging sequences. The suspenseful build-up occasionally loses momentum, making it challenging to maintain a consistently high level of engagement throughout the novel.

While the twists and turns in "Win Lose Kill Die" are commendable, some of them feel forced or predictable, detracting from the shock value that is crucial in a thriller. The narrative's unpredictability, a hallmark of the genre, is compromised by certain plot developments that may leave readers wishing for more genuine surprises.

Character development is another area where the novel falls short. Although the cast is diverse and intriguing, their motivations and backgrounds could have been explored more deeply. As the story revolves around the students' desperate pursuit of success and the deadly consequences that ensue, a deeper understanding of their individual struggles and flaws would have added a layer of complexity to the narrative.

Despite these criticisms, "Win Lose Kill Die" has its strengths. The exploration of the dark side of ambition and the pressure cooker of academic competition is a compelling aspect of the novel. Murphy's writing style is engaging, and the high-school slasher theme, combined with a lethal twist, provides a fresh take on familiar tropes.

In conclusion, "Win Lose Kill Die" by Cynthia Murphy is a decent addition to the YA thriller genre, offering an intriguing premise and moments of suspense. While it may not reach the heights of other notable authors in the genre, readers who enjoy stories of academic rivalry with a deadly edge may find elements to appreciate in Murphy's latest work. It's a solid three-star read that has the potential to captivate a specific audience seeking a blend of suspense and high-school drama.

Thank you to Random House Children's, Delacorte Press and NetGalley for an electronic ARC of this novel.

Liz is excited to be back at Morton Academy, where smart but underprivileged high schoolers go to shine. She loves the classics, and her best friends are happy to be back where they think they belong. Liz is coming back after a traumatic injury sustained near the end of the last school year - another classmate, Morgan, wasn't so lucky and she lost her life. Shaken by the incident, Liz and her friends are determined to make their senior year a good one. But then other classmates start dying. Liz and her friends team up to try and figure out what's going on.

Win Lose Kill Die by Cynthia Murphy is a fun but haunting read. I didn't guess the killer, but I'm not a person who is good at solving mysteries. This is a YA mystery novel, so don't expect a ton of depth. It was kind of fun and a very quick read. .

Liz is back at her very prestigious boarding school after a summer spent recovering from some sort of accident, the cause of which will not be explained until later in the book. She's a new member of a secret society, which would be a good thing if the other members weren't being killed off one by one. Liz and her friends decide to investigate on their own because they don't feel like the school is taking it seriously.

This was an interesting mystery because there were clues dropped throughout as to the killer's identity, but you don't realize that until the end when the killer is revealed. This was a very quick read and is marketed as YA, but middle graders would be able to enjoy it as well. The characters are all unique and likeable, and the book itself is well written.

All told, I enjoyed this book and can recommend it to YA and MG readers.

4/5 stars.

*** I would like to thank NetGalley, Random House Children's, Delacorte Press, and Cynthia Murphy for the opportunity to read and review Win Lose Kill Die.

Morton Academy is a prestigious private academy that only accepts students at the top of their game. Each year, a Head Girl and Boy are chosen by the campus' secret student society, Jewel and Bone. One of the benefits of being selected for the society is a chance to earn a full-ride scholarship to an elite university funded by the school's alums, and if you are at the top of the hierarchy, you get first choice. So, who wouldn't want to be the Head Girl or Boy? It turns out some might even consider killing to be at the top of that list.

Liz is in her senior year at Morton when a series of mysterious student deaths begin occurring, all of which are ruled accidents. Liz and her friends become suspicious and decide to look into things on their own before the next victim is revealed. Win Lose Kill Die is a dark, psychological YA thriller full of twists and secrets. The author did an excellent job of keeping the reader guessing. I was surprised by the culprit at the end, although looking back, I can now see where there were clues as to who it was. I liked the alternating POV between Liz and the killer. There were times when things seemed glossed over or rushed, but I still found it to be a good read and would recommend it to mystery fans.

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Children's/Delacorte Press for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for my honest feedback.

A book that takes place at a boarding school and theres a "secret society"? Sign me up. Liz returns to Morton- a prestigious boarding school- for a new school year. We find out quickly that the year before a classmate of hers was victim of an unfortunate drowning, and she was there that night. Now that the school year is beginning odd things are starting to happen and people are dying.
I found this book perfect for a middle grade student to read. It was a quick read with a really good hook. On top of the fact that its not super long-it also doesn't have any real inappropriate things that would deter it being added to a school or classroom library. I also find that there is a lack of real "thriller" books geared towards middle school aged kids and I am excited to have another book to be able to recommend this book to them. Im not sure that I would tell an adult to read this but definitely a young adult!
“Thank you NetGalley and Random House Children's for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.”

Win Lose Kill Die is normally the type of YA dark academia premise that I adore.

This one felt super rushed and I figured it out quickly. Perhaps it’s just due to fact that’s it YA? I read and enjoy so much YA though and this just wasn’t great for me.

It was fun and a super fast read just didn’t thrill me and although the twist at the very end was clever- I expected it. Bummer.

Thanks to NetGalley and the author here- for my early arc. I will still check out future books by this author.

2.5 ⭐️