Jennifer Lynn Alvarez

2.5 Stars

I'm too old for this type of story. Probably because I'm old school with my views on being held accountable for your actions. The actual description of the wildfire's spread and destruction was intense and well written. Then the 'monsters' went for the big cover up and my need for justice had me hoping their plans would be foiled. The thing is, I don't think we were meant to like these characters, just to be along for the trail of lies and deceit. It does, however, mean you don't care about any of the characters. It was very formulaic and therefore totally predictable. Lastly Hannah is an awful human being and it totally rips my nightie that she got away with it all. Just saying.

CW: sexual content, drugs, drowning, animal death, animal attack, fire kills people… (mehr)

A thrilling story I didn't want to put down!

Friends Like These is an enthralling and thrilling mystery that had me hooked from the very start! The story unfolds from the points of view of the three main characters, Jess, Jake, and Tegan. I started the story thinking I was reading about simple, straightforward high school kids and drama, and I was so wrong. Not only are some very complicated personalities revealed, but the plot is also so much more complex, with twists and turns that make me blink.

The story involves one of the main characters disappearing without a trace from the end-of-summer party. Because of the circumstances and personalities involved, I was never sure if they were actually missing or just hiding out, although all indications were the former. There were more than a few alternatives for the disappearance and several possible suspects, depending on which scenario was the right one. I never guessed the truth until it was actually revealed.

The main characters' backstories vary, but all are affected by their pasts and past relationships. There are so many pivotal moments during the story's events where had a different choice been made at any point, what happened at the party never would have occurred. This was very much a 'perfect storm' of a story.

In addition to a missing person case and a murder, the book explores drug-assisted sexual assault within its unique plot. Some very important points are demonstrated, and though the hook is the story's drama, readers of all ages can learn something from what some characters do and what happens to others.

FRIENDS LIKE THESE was a thrilling story I didn't want to put down, and I recommend it to readers who enjoy YA mystery fiction or thrillers.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy from the author or publisher through NetGalley and TBR and Beyond Book Tours.… (mehr)