The Bookish Ashley

“Girls Who Lie Together” by Jenna Russo is a contemporary romance that combines the elements of “Grease” and “Mean Girls” to create a compelling story. The book follows seventeen-year-old Renata Carpenter, whose summer takes an unexpected turn when she totals her stepdad’s car and is sent to a work program in New Orleans. There, she meets Brit, and their summer romance blossoms. However, it abruptly ends, and Ren is left heartbroken.

The story takes an interesting twist when Ren moves to a small town for her senior year and discovers that the mean girl ruling the school is none other than her first love, Brit. Despite Brit’s harsh exterior, Ren sees beyond it and is determined to rekindle their relationship. The girls embark on a secret affair, risking everything for their love.

The author skillfully portrays the emotional journey of first love, heartbreak, and the desire for acceptance. The chemistry between Ren and Brit is palpable, and readers will find themselves rooting for their relationship. Russo’s writing captures the angst and intensity of teenage emotions, making the characters relatable and engaging.

While the book delivers an intriguing premise and well-developed characters, there were moments when the plot felt predictable and relied on familiar tropes. Additionally, the conflict revolving around Brit’s boyfriend’s discovery of their affair felt somewhat contrived.

Overall, “Girls Who Lie Together” is an enjoyable read with moments of genuine emotional depth. Fans of contemporary romance will appreciate the rollercoaster of emotions and the exploration of love, heartbreak, and the sacrifices one must make. I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy stories of teenage romance and self-discovery.

3/5 stars