Book Review: The Thrashers by Julie Soto
As soon as I heard whispers about The Thrashers and its gripping premise, I knew I had to dive in. Julie Soto’s debut YA thriller had all the ingredients for a captivating read—intrigue, friendship, and the dark underbelly of high school life. Thanks to NetGalley and Wednesday Books for the eARC of this beautifully engaging novel, which I’m overjoyed to celebrate on its publication day!
Soto crafts a tale centered around New Helvetia High’s elite group known as "The Thrashers." Picture this: a quintet of glamorous friends—Zack, Jodi, Paige, Lucy, and Julian—who hold court with their charisma and privilege. But beneath the surface lies a chilling narrative when tragedy strikes: Emily Mills, a student yearning to join their ranks, tragically commits suicide on prom night. Immediately, the Thrashers are thrust into the spotlight as suspects in an investigation of bullying and complicity. The heart of this story pulses with the question: how much truth lies behind their claims of innocence?
What struck me most was Soto’s ability to weave a rich tapestry of morally complex characters. Jodi, the relatable odd one out in this glamorous group, becomes our lens into this dark world. Her struggles with feeling inadequate and her deep empathy contrasted with her friends’ often mean-spirited antics provided a compelling dynamic that had me rooting for her throughout. I often find it difficult to connect with high school narratives—sometimes they feel too young for my nearly twenty-five years—but Soto masterfully captured the nuances of teenage experiences, making me reminisce about my own youthful angst.
The pacing of The Thrashers was exhilarating. It evoked memories of Pretty Little Liars, filled with potential betrayals and secrets waiting to unravel. The narrative had me turning pages well into the night, caught up in the thrill of anonymous texts and unexpected occurrences. At one point, I found myself saying, “Just one more chapter!” before realizing it was 2 AM. Soto’s writing style, sharp and engaging, truly immersed me in the story.
One quote that resonated with me was, “They drew attention to themselves no matter what. The Thrashers.” It encapsulates the allure and danger of their world, highlighting the intoxicating blend of charm and menace that draws people in, but can also lead to devastation.
While the majority of the plot was a delight, I did feel the ending left something to be desired—a bit of closure, perhaps? The romantic subplot felt somewhat forced, lacking the chemistry I hoped for. Still, these were minor hiccups in what was otherwise a thrilling journey.
I believe The Thrashers will resonate with fans of YA thrillers and anyone drawn to stories that explore the messiness of friendship and social dynamics. If you enjoy narratives that push the boundaries of morality—and keep you guessing who to trust—this book is a must-read. It’s safe to say I’ve jumped on the Julie Soto fan bandwagon. I’m eagerly anticipating her future works, especially Rose in Chains.
In summary, The Thrashers was an exhilarating reading experience—one that gripped me and won’t easily fade from memory. Happy reading, everyone!