Now She’s Dead by Roselyn Clarke is a sharp and emotionally intense young adult thriller that grips you from the very first page. In her powerful debut, Clarke dives into the fragile world of teenage friendship, guilt, and long-buried secrets.
The story centers on Mandy, who once spent joyful summers at Highmark, a lake resort where everything felt golden. Her closest friend Sara was always by her side during those warm weeks, until one summer ended in tragedy. Sara was found dead near the lake, and nothing has been the same since. Now Mandy is back, hoping to move forward, but the past refuses to stay quiet. Whispers begin to spread. Someone believes Mandy is responsible for what happened to Sara. Someone wants her to pay.
The novel unfolds through dual timelines, letting readers slowly piece together the truth behind Sara’s death. It’s a haunting portrayal of broken trust and buried trauma, made more real by Clarke’s attention to emotional nuance. This isn’t just a mystery, it’s a deep dive into how unresolved guilt and fear can shape someone’s life.
Sensitive topics are explored with care, including anxiety, grief, toxic friendships, and disordered eating. The book’s tone remains authentic and relatable, never veering into melodrama. With a vividly described setting, realistic characters, and jaw-dropping twists, Now She’s Dead stands out as a compelling summer read that stays with you long after you’ve finished.
