Publication Date: August 6, 2024
Told across two timelines and tapping into a horrific crime, All the Little Liars is a gripping novel about toxic friendship, the ripple effects of murder, and sisterly love that asks: how much would you sacrifice to belong?
California 2003: Finn “Kat” Jackman is a 10-year-old girl living with her tween sister, father, and beloved housekeeper. When a 13-year-old girl disappears from a party at Turtle Lake, and the word LIAR written in blood is discovered on the trunk of a nearby tree, Kat’s life is turned upside down.
What we know: Three teenagers went to the lake that night but only two came back. Later, they confess to murdering their friend. But why? And did they act alone? And what was the involvement of the mysterious and alluring Manson-like figure Ryder Grady?
What REALLY happened at Turtle Lake?: You think you know. Think again.
A childhood tragedy leaves a lasting impact on Finn “Kat” Jackman’s life. Two decades later, a phone call forces her to revisit those awful memories.
All the Little Liars sets up a classic tale of three teens who go to a party, and only two return home. However, author Victoria Selman ratchets the thrills with how the story unfolds.
Using a mix of past and present, readers are introduced to the Jackman family. Thirteen-year-old Izzy and 10-year-old Kat lived with their father and housekeeper, having lost their mother in a car crash. This loss especially impacted Izzy, who became shy and introverted. The author devotes a good chunk of time setting up the characters with the past reflections so it is clear how Izzy could have been swayed by an unsuitable friend group.
It’s interesting to see how the author doles out just enough information to maintain our attention without giving anything away. As the events regarding the night at Turtle Lake are revealed, the story’s direction shifts dramatically, and all the details finally snap into place.
All the Little Liars serves up a captivating thriller packed with surprises leading to a phenomenal story.
Victoria Selman majored in history at Oxford University and holds certificates in criminal profiling and criminal psychology. She’s the author of the Ziba McKenzie criminal profiler series that was published by Thomas & Mercer. She’s been a #1 bestseller on Amazon, and her first novel was shortlisted for the CWA Dagger award. Selman is the author of the internationally bestselling Truly, Darkly, Deeply. She lives in London.
