Tuesday, March 18, 2025

You Owe Me a Murder written by Eileen Cook and reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary:
Seventeen-year-old Kim finds herself in an unexpected predicament during a school trip to London with her ex-boyfriend, Connor, and his new girlfriend. After their breakup, Kim is less than thrilled about the trip but hopes to make the best of it. On the flight, she meets the daring and adventurous Nicki, who listens to Kim vent about her heartbreak. In a moment of dark humor, Nicki suggests they create a list of reasons to kill each other's tormentors: Kim's ex-boyfriend and Nicki's controlling alcoholic mother. Initially brushed off as a joke, the situation escalates when Connor is mysteriously killed shortly after their arrival in London. Nicki, who appears to have a sinister agenda, blackmails Kim into fulfilling their "deal." As Kim navigates the suspenseful twists and turns, she grapples with trust, morality, and the lengths one might go to escape their problems. The story blends psychological suspense with an unreliable narrator, keeping readers guessing about the truth behind the events. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: This book could be a good choice for a book discussion group and there is plenty to talk about on themes of morality, trust, and the consequences of actions. This book would lend itself to a writing workshop where students craft their own suspenseful narratives, inspired by Kim and Nicki's story. This book could be a part of a display incorporating elements of psychological suspense or thematic reading lists. This book not only promotes literacy but also engages students in meaningful discussions around real-life issues. This book is an excellent choice for readers seeking an engaging and suspenseful murder mystery that will keep them on the edge of their seats. It's a good purchase for a high school library.

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