In Girls in Tears, the fourth and final instalment of Jacqueline Wilson's Girls series, Ellie, Magda, and Nadine face new challenges that test the strength of their friendship. Ellie's relationship with Russell hits a rough patch, Magda grapples with the loss of her pet, and Nadine's online relationship raises concerns.

While the book explores relatable teenage issues like friendship drama, romantic troubles, and family conflicts, the characters' constant negativity and mean-spirited behaviour towards each other can feel a bit much. Nadine's insensitive comments, particularly towards a friend struggling with an eating disorder, are especially jarring. The book also touches on mature themes, such as older boys pressuring girls for sex and underage drinking, but handles them with a simplicity that feels more appropriate for a younger audience, creating a disconnect in terms of target readership.

Wilson's signature style and attention to detail are still present, the characters' similar speech patterns and use of dated slang can be distracting. Girls in Tears is an okay read for fans who have followed the series, but it's arguably the weakest of the four and doesn't offer a particularly satisfying conclusion.