SECRETS AND LIES

This sequel to Truth or Dare (2013) continues the same mystery, though with even more menace.

Beauty-queen Tenley, model Emerson and budding photographer Sydney continue to receive anonymous, threatening messages. Apparently, the person making all the dares in the previous book wasn’t killed after all. Tricia, who did die, must have had an accomplice who survived. That accomplice now continues to make life hell for the three girls, sending text messages and leaving typewritten notes—and even making actual attempts on Tenley’s life. The girls learn that at least one actual murder has occurred and have little doubt that their tormentor will kill them and their family members if they go to the police. Plenty of suspects surface, with few eliminated until the book ends with a cliffhanger that nicely positions readers for the next installment. Possible boyfriends come and go as well, with real possibilities for romance, but the mystery plot keeps the girls and boys apart for now. As the story progresses, readers may begin to wish for better clues to the identity of the perpetrator, but the thrills keep pages turning. Green writes with ease, alternating chapters among the three girls. It’s an undemanding chick-lit thriller, with gorgeous teens and designer clothes all around.

An intriguing sequel, with more promised for the future for the Pretty Little Liars set.