Wednesday, March 27, 2019

Review: Famous Last Words by Katie Alender

Book Blurb:

Hollywood history, mystery, murder, mayhem, and delicious romance collide in this unputdownable thriller from master storyteller Katie Alender.

Willa is freaking out. It seems like she's seeing things. Like a dead body in her swimming pool. Frantic messages on her walls. A reflection that is not her own. It's almost as if someone—or something—is trying to send her a message.

Meanwhile, a killer is stalking Los Angeles—a killer who reenacts famous movie murder scenes. Could Willa's strange visions have to do with these unsolved murders? Or is she going crazy? And who can she confide in? There's Marnie, her new friend who may not be totally trustworthy. And there's Reed, who's ridiculously handsome and seems to get Willa. There's also Wyatt, who's super smart but unhealthily obsessed with the Hollywood Killer.

All Willa knows is, she has to confront the possible-ghost in her house, or she just might lose her mind . . . or her life.

Acclaimed author Katie Alender puts an unforgettable twist on this spine-chilling tale of murder, mystery, mayhem—and the movies.

Find out more about the book on Goodreads.

My Review:

5 Out Of 5 Stars

Genre: Ghosts, Mystery, Scary, Supernatural, Suspense, Teen--

Willa and her mother just moved to Hollywood, a world away from their quiet life before the whirlwind romance between Willa's mom and a wealthy movie director. Willa is so isolated and lonely due to her depression and guilt from her father's death, causing her to attempt to contact her father's ghost. But it seems like her bumbling attempts have reached someone...but not who she was looking for.

I had been wanting to read Famous Last Words forever it seems, I just did not have any opportunity. Well, I made an opportunity now and I am so glad I did and bummed I waited so long. This was the perfect mix of supernatural, Hollywood drama and mystery, all wrapped up in an engaging package. And in true Hollywood form, nobody is what they seem and everyone is putting on a good show.

The story is narrated by Willa, a quiet loner who seems to barely be coping with everything in her life. In a word, Willa is a mess- at least when the book starts. But as the book progresses, she becomes more comfortable in her skin and I loved watching the transition. And while this was predominantly a super dark mystery story dealing with a serial killer and lots of death, I was entertained by the sarcasm and dry humor Willa used as armor in her thoughts. She was a great character! Resilient, realistic, down to earth and honest to herself about life and her wants.

I love a good mystery! This had enough twists and misdirection to keep me guessing, which is the best pat of a mystery. Just when I was convinced I knew who the killer was and what was going on, the rug was ripped out from underneath me (and of course Willa). I loved how Katie kept me on my toes and I can't wait to grab another book by her to read. This was fantastic and I highly recommend for anyone who loves dark YA mysteries with a touch of paranormal.

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