One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus follows the mystery of Simon Kelleher's death during detention with four other students—Bronwyn, Nate, Addy, and Cooper—each a suspect due to secrets Simon planned to reveal. The narrative explores the impact of stereotyping, gossip, and family influence as the students uncover hidden truths and form unexpected alliances to solve the crime. The book addresses themes of drug use, infidelity, and violence.

One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus is praised for its engaging mystery, distinct character voices, and intricate plot twists. However, some critics argue that the storyline lacks originality and the ending feels predictable. Despite this, the book effectively captures high school dynamics and keeps readers hooked.

A reader who enjoys the suspenseful dynamics of high school life, complex characters, and twisty, layered mysteries would find One of Us is Lying captivating. Fans of Pretty Little Liars by Sara Shepard and Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher will appreciate its blend of drama and intrigue.

Mysterious / Suspenseful / Dark / Emotional

- One of Us is Lying has been adapted into a television series by Peacock, which premiered in 2021, expanding the book’s themes and characters for a visual medium.
- The novel is Karen M. McManus's debut and became a New York Times bestseller, establishing her as a prominent voice in young adult mystery fiction.
- One of Us is Lying has been translated into over 40 languages, allowing its compelling mystery to reach audiences worldwide.

**Bronwyn Rojas**  
The academically driven daughter of Yale graduates, Bronwyn faces pressure to achieve similar success and navigates personal and ethical challenges during a murder investigation at her high school.

**Nate Macauley**  
A high school student with a troubled home life, Nate is on probation for selling drugs and becomes a murder suspect while developing a relationship with Bronwyn.

**Cooper Clay**  
A talented baseball player whose public image is complicated by personal secrets, Cooper is one of the murder suspects and struggles with the expectations his father has for his future.

**Addy Prentiss**  
Initially seen as a "princess," Addy re-evaluates her priorities and relationships after she becomes entangled in the aftermath of a classmate’s murder.

**Simon Kelleher**  
The creator of a notorious high school gossip app, Simon's death at the beginning of the story sets off the central mystery and exposes secrets of his classmates.

**Janae Vargas**  
Simon's only close friend before his death, Janae is thrust into the chaos following Simon’s demise and grapples with her own role in the unfolding drama.

**Jake Riordan**  
Addy's controlling boyfriend at the start of the story, Jake’s reaction to unfolding events adds tension to the narrative.

**Ashton Prentiss**  
Addy’s supportive older sister who offers guidance and helps her navigate difficult family dynamics.

**Maeve Rojas**  
Bronwyn’s tech-savvy younger sister, who aids in the investigation surrounding Simon’s death with her programming skills.

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-4

One of Us is Lying Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-9

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Chapters 10-14

One of Us is Lying Chapters 10-14 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 15-18

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Chapters 19-23

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Chapters 24-26	

One of Us is Lying Chapters 24-26	 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 27-29

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Chapter 30-Epilogue

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Introduction

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Before Reading

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