Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC of The Debutantes by Olivia Worley. Fans of Pretty Little Liars will find much to love in this book! It's a twisty, gripping mystery set against the vibrant backdrop of New Orleans during Mardi Gras. The story follows three debutantes—Piper, Vivian, and April—who are not friends but find themselves intricately connected by a series of dark secrets involving a missing queen, a dead queen, and their own hidden pasts.



Initially, I rated this book a solid 3.5 stars. The plot was engaging, and the setting of New Orleans during Mardi Gras added a layer of excitement and authenticity. However, it was the ending that truly elevated the book for me, bumping my rating up to a 4. The conclusion was both surprising and satisfying, tying up loose ends in a way that felt both unexpected and earned.

One area where the book could have improved is in character development. While the plot was compelling, I felt that the characters could have been more deeply explored. A bit more background and depth would have made their motivations and actions more relatable and impactful. I believe that expanding on the characters' histories and relationships would have added an extra layer of emotional resonance to the story. I did however love the social and political commentary throughout the book.

Overall, The Debutantes is a worthwhile read, especially for those who enjoy a good mystery with plenty of twists and turns. Olivia Worley has crafted a tale that keeps you guessing until the very end, and I look forward to seeing what she writes next.

An entertaining ya thriller

4.5