Secrets, Sisters, and a Suspenseful Garden: A Dive into What Have They Done to Liza McLean?
From the moment I stumbled upon What Have They Done to Liza McLean? by Amy Doak, I felt a magnetic pull. Perhaps it was the tantalizing premise featuring two sisters at a prestigious boarding school, or maybe it was the promise of a YA thriller that hints at deeper themes than just mere teenage drama. Whatever it was, I knew I had to dive in—and I’m so glad I did!
At its heart, this novel explores the complexity of sisterly bonds, secrets, and the suspense that comes with unraveling a mystery. Meg and Liza are as different as they come, showcasing the classic yet captivating dichotomy between a nurturing, introspective older sister and a once-flamboyant younger sister who’s lately withdrawn into herself. This sibling dynamic is beautifully crafted, diving right into emotional depths that resonated with me. I don’t have a sister, but Meg’s fierce devotion had me rallying for her as if she were my own flesh and blood.
The alternating narratives between Meg and Ben added an interesting layer to the storytelling. Oh, Ben! How I loved his character! His perspective provided depth and made the mystery tangibly personal. The way the siblings tackle their traumatic past while trying to fit into their new, glamorous surroundings creates a brew of relatable tension, sprinkled with shadows of darkness and unease. As the story unfolded, I found myself immersed in the intrigue, especially during those whimsical garden parties that echoed both charm and dread.
One of the standout elements for me was the atmospheric setting filled with botanical vibes—plants, secret whispers, and garden soirées! There’s something striking about intertwining nature with suspense, and Doak executes this beautifully. The gardens themselves seem to become characters, harboring secrets that you can almost feel in your bones.
However, like any book, it had its hiccups. The beginning felt a bit sluggish, making me occasionally check my watch as the slow burn flickered. Plus, the star-crossed lovers trope felt a little worn out—like a party that had overstayed its welcome—and a couple of cliché character arcs elicited an eye-roll or two. Yet, once the story picked up momentum, I was racing through chapters, unable to put it down.
In terms of writing style, Doak’s prose is engaging yet manages to evoke just the right tension. There are moments that encourage you to pause and reflect, such as Meg saying, “We’re haunted by what we don’t know, but also by what we think we know.” It’s these thoughtful lines that elevated the narrative, pulling at my heartstrings and keeping me invested.
Overall, I’d rate What Have They Done to Liza McLean? a solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️/5. The combination of emotional stakes, layered characters, and just enough relatable drama left an imprint on my heart. I can easily see this resonating with anyone who enjoys YA thrillers packed with sisterhood, intrigue, and a hint of the uncanny.
If you find joy in stories about familial bonds wrapped in suspense, or if you’re simply craving a read that keeps you guessing until the very end, this one is definitely worth picking up. Not only did it remind me of the thrill a good mystery can provide, but it also reignited my appreciation for the emotional landscapes that young adult literature can explore.
A heartfelt thanks to NetGalley, Penguin Random House Australia, and Amy Doak for this advance copy. I can’t wait for everyone to experience the magic and suspense that What Have They Done to Liza McLean? has to offer!
~JaNnA~
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