Friends Like These by Jennifer Lynn Alvarez is a gripping young adult mystery that delves into the complexities of teenage friendships, toxic relationships, and the dark consequences of a prank gone wrong. Set against the backdrop of a small Californian coastal town, the novel is a thrilling ride from start to finish.
The story centers around Tegan Sheffield’s annual end-of-summer beach party, a highly anticipated event among her peers. However, the party takes a sinister turn when a video prank goes viral, leading to Tegan’s disappearance and the discovery of a body on the beach. The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of Jessica Sanchez and Jake Healy, a teenage couple caught in the whirlwind of the ensuing media storm and police investigation.
Alvarez masterfully crafts a tale filled with twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The multi-perspective storytelling allows for a deep dive into the characters’ psyches, revealing their secrets and motivations layer by layer. Jessica and Jake’s alternating viewpoints, along with occasional insights from Tegan, create a rich tapestry of perspectives that enhance the mystery and suspense.
One of the novel’s standout features is its exploration of toxic friendships and the intense pressures faced by teenagers. Each character is flawed in their own way, making them relatable and human. Jessica’s struggle with her loyalty to Jake, despite the chaos surrounding them, and Jake’s battle with his own demons, including the trauma of sexual assault, add depth to their characters and highlight the emotional turmoil they endure.
The book also tackles heavy themes such as drug and alcohol use, sexual assault, and the quest for acceptance and love among teenagers. These elements are handled with sensitivity and provide a realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by today’s youth. The portrayal of Jake’s recovery from sexual assault, in particular, is both heart-wrenching and thought-provoking, offering a perspective that is rarely seen in young adult literature.
While Friends Like These excels in its character development and thematic depth, it is not without its flaws. Some readers might find the plot’s reliance on dramatic twists a bit over-the-top, and the resolution, while satisfying, may feel somewhat predictable to seasoned mystery enthusiasts. However, these minor shortcomings do not detract significantly from the overall impact of the story.
In conclusion, Friends Like These is a compelling and fast-paced young adult mystery that will appeal to fans of Karen M. McManus and similar authors. Jennifer Lynn Alvarez has crafted a story that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant, making it a worthy addition to any YA reader’s bookshelf. With its complex characters, engaging plot, and thoughtful exploration of difficult themes, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Content Warnings: The novel contains references to domestic violence, drug and alcohol use, and sexual assault, which may be triggering for some readers.
Recommended for Ages: 14 and up.
