Review Detail

Lies Between Us by Jessica Goodman was exactly the kind of YA mystery that keeps whispering, "Just one more chapter," until suddenly it's way past bedtime.
Jessica Goodman knows how to write privileged friend groups with enough secrets to make everyone look guilty, and this book is no exception. What starts as a tragic summer on an idyllic island quickly unravels into a tangled web of lies, family drama, and relationships that are far messier than they appear. Every time I thought I had someone figured out, another revelation sent me right back to square one.
I especially enjoyed following the three Gold sisters. Giving each of them their own perspective added layers to the mystery and made it clear that everyone was hiding something—even from the people they loved most. The shifting viewpoints kept the story moving at a brisk pace, and I never felt the tension let up for long.
While there are quite a few characters to keep track of at first, once everyone falls into place, the mystery becomes addictive. The seaside setting also gave the story a perfect summer thriller atmosphere. It has that contrast of sunny beaches hiding some very dark secrets, and I loved that vibe.
The mystery itself kept me guessing almost the entire way through. Even when I had theories, I wasn't completely convinced any of them were right, which is exactly what I want from this kind of book. The twists felt earned, and the final reveals tied together the many secrets woven throughout the story.
If you're looking for a fast-paced young adult mystery filled with family drama, complicated friendships, multiple points of view, and plenty of twists, Lies Between Us is a great addition to your summer reading list. It delivers exactly what I hope for when I pick up a Jessica Goodman novel—a suspenseful story where no one is telling the whole truth.