The Cheerleaders by Kara Thomas, narrated by Phoebe Strole
Listening Library
Publication Date: July 31, 2018
ISBN: 978-0525595625
The Cheerleaders by Kara Thomas follows the story of Monica who believes years after a series of events that left five cheerleaders dead, including her sister, that justice may have not been served. As she begins delve into the complexities of the cheerleader’s deaths, she finds herself discovering the true meaning of family, friendship, and even love.
Thomas writes a thrilling and complex murder mystery that leaves listeners guessing until the end. Amidst the mystery, Thomas showcases teen issues including family struggles, friendships, inappropriate relationships, and acceptance of onself. Stroele narrators this audiobook with a full breadth of character voices and emotes well for each respective character. Furthermore, the narrator’s restraint and subtlety allow for the ominous plot to speak for itself.
Fans of Kara Thomas’ other works such as Little Monsters and The Darkest Corner will love this latest novel. In addition, fans of realistic murder mystery novels like One of Us is Lying by McManus, #Murdertrending by McNeil, Truly Devious by Johnson or People Like Us by Mele will enjoy this novel. For non-readers, television enthusiast for shows like Riverdale, Pretty Little Liars, and 13 Reasons Why will devour this novel. For the movie-goers, who enjoyed the mystery of films like “Searching,” “I Know What You Did Last Summer,” or “Heathers;” this novel should be their next read. Lastly, for those that enjoy video games, player who enjoy games like Alan Wake, Heavy Rain, L.A. Noire, and other mystery games would enjoy this novel.
–Brittany Garcia