Maya, a Princeton University alumna, returns to her alma mater for her 10-year reunion and to celebrate her younger sister Naomi's graduation. Tragedy strikes soon after her arrival when Naomi's body is recovered from a nearby lake. Maya doesn't believe that her sister's death was an accident. The story shifts to the days and months leading up to Naomi's death, Maya's time as a student at Princeton, and Maya's current search for the truth behind her sister's death as she's convinced Naomi was murdered. The biracial sisters, with deceased parents - a Chinese mother and Black father, had a strained relationship. While at Princeton, Maya was at first thrilled to be admitted into the university's most exclusive social group and its secret society, typically reserved for the ultra-rich, white students. But once she discovered its secrets, she was in too deep. The same group had also admitted Naomi, fulfilling her need for belonging. She, unlike Maya, would not live to see her graduation day.
In an impressive debut, author Lauren Ling Brown brings her take on dark academia in Society of Lies. Although it took some time to adjust to the frequent shifts in timelines and different points of view, this was a suspenseful story that kept me engaged. More than a mystery, the book delves into the bonds of sisterhood and racial issues. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Many thanks to Random House - Ballantine | Bantam for the opportunity to read this book before its release.
Rated 3.75 out of 5 stars.
Mystery Thriller.
Publication Date: October 1, 2024.
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