i received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

this was an enjoyable read, though i didn’t like the main character. eugenia, though, was a big surprise for me and i really liked her!
i can see fans of ya and mystery/thriller really liking this book. i had fun with this story but didn’t love it since it felt a bit juvenil for my liking.

"Dead Girls Talking" is a gripping YA thriller that follows Bettina Holland as she questions her father's conviction for her mother's murder. Teaming up with Eugenia, the mortician's daughter, they delve into a string of copycat murders. With a taut atmosphere and dynamic characters, Peterson crafts a suspenseful narrative that keeps readers engaged until the satisfying conclusion. Perfect for fans of YA thrillers seeking a fast-paced and compelling read.

Bettina’s father killed her mother, at least that’s what she’s been told for a decade. But when other girls’ bodies pop up, eerily similar to her mother’s case, she needs to find out once and for all who killed her mother.

Dead Girls walking is a YA thriller, surely to keep you interested through the story. And who doesn’t love a good teenage sleuth book? I loved the friendship between Bett and the mortician’s daughter Eugenia.

I won’t lie though, it’s been a couple of days since I finished this book, and I can already feel it blending in with countless other YA thrillers. Though I will say that this has more of a gritty feeling than many of the other YA- thriller’s I’ve read.

All in all, a fun time was definitely had, and I highly recommend any other YA- thriller lovers giving this a read.

Big thanks to Netgalley, Holiday House, and the author Megan Cooley Peterson for allowing me to read an E-Arc of this novel!

This book is a great choice for everyone who wants to get out of a reading slump. It was quick and overall entertaining.
I liked the comments about sexism and how true crime can effect those who lost someone to a crime.
The suspense was there and the writing style was easy enough to pull you right in.
However, the characters could have had more depth to make me really care for them. The way how Bettina and Eugenia just walked around and straight up told people what they were doing was very unbelievable (especially since the author tells us how small the town is, how news travels fast, etc) and they didn't have to work that hard, everything was just convenient for them.

With that being said, I think people who enjoy YA mystery/thriller would still this book.

"Dead Girls Talking" captivated me from the very first page. As an avid reader of YA thrillers, I approached this book with high expectations, and I was pleasantly surprised to find that it exceeded them in most ways. What truly sets this novel apart is its richly developed characters, particularly the two main protagonists. Their complexities and vulnerabilities were expertly portrayed, making them feel remarkably real and relatable.
Moreover, the exploration of the relationships between the girls and the traumas they endured was both heart-wrenching and authentic. The author delicately navigated sensitive topics, ensuring that they really hit.
The writing style strikes the perfect balance between being engaging and effortless. I found myself immersed in the world the author created, eagerly devouring each twist and turn of the plot.
One aspect of the book that I particularly appreciated was the minimal focus on romance. Instead, the narrative remained firmly centered on the thrilling mystery at its core (the murders) ensuring that the tension never waned.

While the ending may not have been flawless, it was still satisfying and provided closure to the story. Overall, "Dead Girls Talking" is a captivating and thrilling novel that I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone looking for a compelling read.

It's the book that will leave you gasping for air.

I was initially drawn to the book cover and the description. It sounded really interesting and the premise got me curious. It's page-turning and very fast-paced.

We have Bettina whose father was convicted of murder, a serial killer. When she discovered a body with the same MO as her father, she started questioning things.

Writing style is probably not for me, or maybe it's the YA genre but it didn't stop me from reading this book in one go. I adore Eugenia so much, and she added much more depth in the story. Bettina is a hard character to like but I totally understand her.

We have a mix of suspense, mystery and everything you would want for this genre. I love how we unravel the mysteries surrounding the murders. I got the haunch of who the killer was, but still I kept on reading, and I love my reading experience.

This was a enjoyable read it was really slow at times and Bettina really got on my nerves but Eugenia really saved this book from being a 2 stars.

The mystery and figuring out who "the copy cat killer" was, was really fun and the ending of the mystery wasn't really a surprise to me, that was one of my theories that i had.

"Dead Girls Talking" by Megan Cooley Peterson is a riveting and captivating novel that plunges readers into a thrilling and suspenseful narrative, marked by its originality and profound depth. Peterson masterfully crafts a story that is not only engaging but also profoundly resonant, exploring themes of life, death, and the complex interplay between them. This book stands out for its unique premise, compelling characters, and the way it seamlessly blends elements of mystery, paranormal activity, and emotional depth.

From the first page, Peterson captivates her audience with a gripping tale that centers around the unconventional perspective of its protagonists – girls who are no longer alive but are bound together by their desire to communicate the truths behind their untimely deaths. This intriguing vantage point offers a fresh take on the mystery genre, inviting readers to consider the stories of those who can no longer speak for themselves.

The characters in "Dead Girls Talking" are beautifully developed, each with their own distinct voice and story that contribute to the tapestry of the narrative. Peterson delves into their backgrounds with sensitivity and care, allowing readers to empathize with them and become invested in their quest for justice. The dynamics between these characters are both touching and complex, adding layers to the story that go beyond the typical mystery or thriller.

Peterson's writing style is both eloquent and accessible, striking a perfect balance between descriptive prose and fast-paced storytelling. The dialogue is sharp and believable, propelling the story forward and deepening our understanding of the characters. The plot itself is meticulously plotted, with twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Peterson demonstrates an exceptional ability to build suspense and craft a story that is both unpredictable and satisfying.

Moreover, "Dead Girls Talking" explores deeper themes that resonate on a universal level, such as the quest for justice, the impact of loss, and the power of speaking out. Through its compelling narrative, the novel invites readers to reflect on the importance of giving voice to those who have been silenced and the cathartic power of truth.

In summary, "Dead Girls Talking" by Megan Cooley Peterson is a standout novel that offers a unique and engaging experience to its readers. Its blend of mystery, paranormal elements, and emotional depth makes it a memorable read. Peterson has created a world that is both haunting and hopeful, leaving a lasting impact on anyone who delves into its pages. For fans of thrilling narratives with a twist, "Dead Girls Talking" is an absolute must-read, showcasing Peterson's talent as a storyteller and her ability to craft a story that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for an advanced copy to review for my honest opinion.

Dead Girl Talking is a suspenseful YA thriller that is fast-paced and easily sucks you into the story from the get go! Reminiscent of A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson, The Female of the Species by Mindy McGuinnis and The Girls I’ve Been by Tess Sharpe, Peterson’s new book is full of female rage, dark secrets and girls who just refuse to let the world (and the patriarchy) rule their lives.

I just adored the two main characters Bettina and Eugenia! their dynamic— the mean girl and the quiet goth girl— was probably my favourite part of the book, despite also loving the intricate and twist plot that really kept me on my toes. Both girls held a lot of depth and their budding friendship just made for a delightful read amongst so many dark (and sometimes depressing) themes that Peterson explored. They were complex and gritty, and I just love me some feminine rage in my books, especially YA books centred on young girls who defy the patriarchal shackles that try to entangle them.

Definitely intrigued to read more of Peterson’s works since I’m new to her, and it helps that this cover is stunning!

Really enjoyed this book, was a little slow on parts but the second half of the book really picked up and the twist at the end was amazing.

The story captivated me from the start! Bettina's father was convicted and imprisoned for the murder of her mother, earning him the nickname the Smiley Face Killer. Ten years later, additional murders with a similar modus operandi surfaced. Now, Bettina and her friend Eugenia are resolute in their quest to unveil the truth. Is it possible that her father is innocent? The narrative is brimming with unexpected twists, but the final revelation is undeniably astounding!

I would like to express my gratitude to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with this advance reader copy in exchange for my unbiased review.

I was excited to read this book and to discover the truth behind the murder of Bettina's mother and the copy cat killers.

It was an enjoyable book. The plot is the most interesting part of the novel, I did very much like it. It was full of suspense and mysteries. The main character was a little bit unlikeable at times, she could be unnecessarily rude. But her background was intriguing. However, I loved Eugenia. She’s by far my favorite character.

Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for a honest review.

Thank you NetGalley & Holiday House for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Dead Girls Talking is a sleepy-creepy small town mystery about Bettina's mother, who was murdered by her father a decade earlier - right? The truth Bett thought she knew her whole life is suddenly in question as more bodies killed in the same way are turning up. Along with the daughter of the town's mortician, Bett is racing against the killer's clock to find the truth, once and for all.

This book surprised me. I wasn't sure how I felt about it for the first couple of pages, and worried it wouldn't be for me based on the first chapter, but I soon found myself flying through it.

Bettina is a complicated, complex character that is messy and funny and hard to like, but simultaneously hard to dislike. She isn't a perfect girl, and she isn't a perfect victim by any means, and I love her unwillingness to bend herself into another shape just for other people to like her.

Eugenia is interesting in a different way. From first glance, she may seem weird or cold or indifferent, but I appreciated her ability to separate facts from emotions, and I loved that even when it was uncomfortable, she stood up for herself and what she belied in. More than that, I related to her drive to find answers for the forgotten women of Wolf's Ridge.

I did guess the killer fairly early on, but that did not stop me from enjoying every page of this book.

Dead Girls Talking is a fun, interesting mystery that I'd recommend to anyone who enjoys seeing girls protect each other and fight the system together.

This novel definitely moves quickly, with a fast-paced narrative. A little mystery and a little thriller with some (perhaps unsurprising to some) twists I can see YA readers going for this one. I did NOT care for Bert’s attitude a majority of the time- like, I get it she’s a teenager with past issues- but come on. It was a little annoying to read sometimes. I liked the relationship that was built between Bett and Eugenia, however. The unlikely friendship angle worked for this novel and I appreciated their banter. Suspending disbelief that these two are working on solving a crime outside the police, I still found it a little too convenient sometimes what they were able to uncover. That aspect aside, it was interesting enough to keep me wondering what the truth was going to be. I did find the overall wrap up a little unsatisfying, but that could be me just being a little overly critical and wanting more out of the story. If you’re looking for a quick YA thriller, check this one out.

Dead Girls Talking is a YA mystery/thriller set in the small town Wolf Ridge. Bett's mother was brutally murdered by her father when she was 6 years old. Now, there are similar murders happening in Wolf Ridge but her father is still in jail... Is there a copycat killer? Or is her father really innocent, as he had claimed all these years?

I liked this book! The story was fast-paced and had a great amount of suspense. I was always interested in what would happen next and I was totally not expecting the big reveal. Even though the mystery aspect was great, what I loved the most in this book was the blooming friendship between Beth and Eugenia, who are both outcasts at school (Beth because of her murdered mother, Eugenia because her parents are morticians). The relationships in this story felt realistic and complex.

I would totally recommend this book if you're interested in a YA mystery/thriller with a surprising twist, great characters and complex relationships.

*Thanks to NetGalley and Holiday House for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.

Thank you Netgalley and Holiday House for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

"Dead Girls Talking" by Megan Cooley Peterson is a gripping and dark thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. I definitely recommend this book for fans of YA thrillers, especially since the mystery in this book is actually quite unpredictable, which I enjoyed. Also, the cover for this book is absolutely beautiful and captivating; I definitely need to buy a physical copy for my bookshelf.

Set in the small town of Wolf Ridge, the story follows Bettina Holland, whose life has been overshadowed by the gruesome murder of her mother by her own father, dubbed the Smile Face Killer. But when Bettina stumbles upon another victim with the same M.O. as her mother's murder, she begins to question everything she thought she knew about her father's guilt. With the help of Eugenia, the mortician's daughter and a fellow outcast at school, Bettina embarks on a relentless quest for justice and truth. As they delve deeper into the mystery surrounding the murders, they uncover dark secrets lurking beneath the surface of their seemingly peaceful town.

Peterson's writing is captivating and fast-paced, drawing you in with its compelling characters and intricate plot twists. From the complexities of family relationships to the harsh realities of violence against women, the book tackles difficult themes with sensitivity and depth. I really like how Bettina teamed up with the school outcast and was able to learn more about her and become close friends despite their differences. Not too many books tackle the “popular rich girl with the school outcast” troupe, but I think Peterson handled their developing friendship very well.

The dynamic duo of Bettina and Eugenia shines as they navigate through the darkness, facing their own demons along the way. Their friendship and determination to uncover the truth make them compelling protagonists who will resonate with you long after the final page. I also liked the relationship between Bettina and her grandparents where her grandparents were just trying to protect her in misguided ways when Bettina simply wanted the truth.

The mystery aspect of this book was filled with twists, and I honestly did not expect the truth at the end of the book. I definitely hadn’t predicted the major twist, and I consider this a major success, especially since many YA mystery books struggle with this aspect. I will say that I found some of the dialogue to be stilted in the book, and it took me a bit to get invested in the story, but once I did, I found myself engaged and turning the pages as fast as I could.

Overall, "Dead Girls Talking" is a fun ride filled with mystery, deception, and unexpected twists. With its gripping storyline, this book is a must-read for fans of mysteries and thrillers.

"Dead Girls Talking is a teen thriller written by Megan Cooley Peterson.
I loved the plot, when I read the synopsis of this book I wanted to read it because it brings together all the elements I like.
The novel is a mix of mystery, suspense and drama, with a strong protagonist and a plot that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat until the end. The author explores themes of family, friendship, forgiveness and the search for truth amidst secrets and lies.
In short, "Dead Girls Talking" is a young adult thriller that combines elements of mystery and drama, and introduces us to a strong and determined protagonist in her search for the truth.
I really enjoyed this read.
Thank you Holiday House and Netgalley for this eARC

"Dead Girls Talking" is a ya thriller novel written by Megan Cooley Peterson.

Dark, intriguing and compelling book that absorbed me completely! The captivating writing, fast pace and short chapters made it almost impossible for me to tear myself away from the pages, prompting me to finish it in less than a day. "Dead Girls Talking" is a story about serial killers, murders, violence against women, complicated family relationships and bullying, but it is also a story of friendship, hope and justice. A dynamic, gritty and powerful thriller full of mysteries, deceptions, lies and secrets. I was fascinated by the small town of Wolf Ridge, a seemingly placid and peaceful place, where everyone knows everyone and knows everything about everyone, that in reality hides a deep darkness.  Most of all, I loved Bett (with her only first person pov) and Eugenia, the novel's protagonists. Two complex and tormented girls, marked by their respective demons, portrayed beautifully. Seriously, I loved everything about this book, and I cannot express anything but kudos!

Thank you to the Publisher and NetGalley for giving me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you Holiday House and Netgalley for this eARC, these opinions are my own. Bettina lost her mother at a young age, worse her father killed her mother. Not only did he kill her but he carved a smile into after she was dead, labeling him the Smile Face Killer. It’s been ten years since then and on a walk back from visiting her mom’s grave she stumbles a crossed another dead body. Same M.O. as her mother. Only this couldn’t have been her father because he’s locked up. Though he has always maintained his innocence. Considering Bett was the key witness to her father’s crime, is she misremembering what happened? The only person who shows interest in figure out what’s going on is the funeral director’s daughter Eugenia. Together the two will investigate what happened to this latest victim and simultaneously learn more about what happened to Bett’s mother. But will she be able to show that it was her father that killed her? Or is her world about to be shattered? In a small town that doesn’t seem to value women very much the two will stop at nothing to uncover the truth. I’ll admit that it took a little bit for me to get fully into this one but only because I couldn’t understand the utter conviction that she had, especially had there was some doubt, convenient doubt, but still doubt. But then I understood! It’s full of twists and will keep you guessing and eager to find out if her dad is innocent! The ending was shocking, even know there are things that could lead you there, but they never quite seemed likely so your still shocked! Megan Cooley Peterson tells a fast paced story that’ll keep you hooked! Highly recommend!