Book Review | As Good As Dead ☠️

Okay, so you just finished 'As Good As Dead' and, like me, you're probably reeling from that wild ride and desperately searching for your next obsession! I totally get it. After saying goodbye to Pip and Ravi, it feels like there’s a massive book-shaped hole in my heart. But don't worry, my fellow true crime junkies and YA thriller enthusiasts, I've got you covered with some recommendations that might just fill that void (at least until Holly Jackson writes something new!). First up, if you haven't already dived into Karen M. McManus's work, you are missing out! Her books, especially One of Us Is Lying and *Two Can Keep a Secret*, have that same addictive, twisty appeal as the AGGGTM series. One of Us Is Lying is often described as 'The Breakfast Club meets Pretty Little Liars,' and honestly, it’s spot on. Four students walk into detention, only three walk out alive, and everyone's a suspect. The way McManus weaves together character backstories and reveals secrets had me guessing until the very last page. It’s perfect if you love a high-stakes mystery with a group of compelling teens. I gave both of these a solid 5 stars because they kept me hooked! Next, for something with a slightly darker, more atmospheric vibe that still has those true-crime podcast undertones, you absolutely have to check out Sadie by Courtney Summers. This book is intense, told through alternating perspectives: Sadie’s own quest for revenge after her sister is murdered, and a podcast host investigating her disappearance. It’s gritty, heartbreaking, and completely unputdownable. If you appreciate the deeper, more emotional stakes in your thrillers, Sadie delivers. It’s definitely a heavier read than AGGGTM, but equally captivating. This one also earned a 5-star rating from me for its sheer impact. And if you're looking for clever puzzles, hidden clues, and an inheritance mystery, then The Inheritance Games series by Jennifer Lynn Barnes is fantastic. While maybe not as dark as AGGGTM, it has a brilliant, whip-smart protagonist, Avery Grambs, who is suddenly thrust into a world of immense wealth and dangerous secrets. Think intricate puzzles, family drama, and unexpected twists around every corner. It’s such a fun, fast-paced series that will keep you guessing. I devoured these books just as quickly as I did *As Good As Dead*! The way Barnes crafts her mysteries is just brilliant. Finally, for a classic cold case mystery with a modern twist, I highly recommend Maureen Johnson's Truly Devious series. Set at a prestigious boarding school known for an unsolved kidnapping and murder from the 1930s, it follows Stevie Bell, a true crime enthusiast who enrolls specifically to solve the case. The series expertly blends historical mystery with a present-day investigation, offering plenty of red herrings and satisfying reveals. It has that same intelligent, investigative feel that draws you into Pip's world. Reading As Good As Dead and seeing that iconic black book with the red duct tape cover on my 'Current Reads' pile made me realize how much I love a good YA thriller that pushes boundaries. These books are perfect for discussion in a Lemon8 Book Club! What are your go-to recommendations after finishing a book you loved? I'm always looking to add more to my TBR (To Be Read) list!