I thought this one was better than The Woman in Cabin 10 and The Turn of the Key. Both of those had elements that I just couldn't believe. This one didn't strain credulity any more than any other thriller, and Hannah's character, although naive and at times a bit gullible, were understandable given her age and life experience. I loved the scenes in Oxford and the slow burn of the mystery. ( )

This is probably the 3rd book written by Ruth Ware and I just love her writing style. She just draws you into a story all the way till the end.
This was a story of murder and injustice and finding out the real story. I loved it.

I recommend if you love a good mystery and who done it. Flashbacks that bring you current and get you to where you need. ( )

Loved the elements of dark academia in this thriller. The character of April also a reminder me of the late 2000s/early 20210s "wealthy socialite with a popular social media following" trope. I will say that the last third seemed to drag on a bit and while I was surprised by the end (it was not who I had originally guessed), it felt a bit rushed. ( )

Ruth Ware's latest novel is an engrossing dark academia mystery that centers around the murder of Oxford "it" girl April Coutts-Cliveden. Hannah Jones became BFFs with the wealthy, clever, and sometimes cruel April, after they're paired as roommates freshman year. But, before the school year ends, April is dead, and a creepy porter will be convicted of the crime based on Hannah's eyewitness testimony.

Fast forward a decade, and Hannah is still haunted by April's death, in part because the porter has died in prison, maintaining his innocence until the end. Then a journalist contacts her, claiming that new evidence suggests the police got the wrong guy. Hannah's life is once again in turmoil. If it wasn't the porter, then who killed April?

I enjoyed this slow burn whodunit that showcases Ruth Ware's talent for weaving a twisty story. Though unique from her other books, I would say THE IT GIRL's atmosphere is closest to THE LYING GAME (less drama though). Not exactly Gothic or thriller, but suspenseful and keeps you guessing. Lots of red herrings and possible suspects had me changing my mind often, and I was shocked when the truth was revealed! I'll be buying a copy for my keeper shelf!

Thank you to the publisher and Edelweiss for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. ( )

Ruth surprised me again, this was a fun ride with a likable main character ( )