The One Who Got Away With Murder by Trish Lundy is definitely one of those YA thrillers you should pick up if you loved A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson.
Partly because it shares the same small-town mystery vibes—a tight-knit community full of secrets and shocking twists—but also because, according to Deadline, the book may soon be adapted into a TV series, following in the footsteps of Jackson’s successful adaptation.
So here’s my review of The One Who Got Away With Murder: what works, what doesn’t quite land, and what we can expect from what could become one of Hulu’s most anticipated upcoming shows.
Plot Summary
Robbie and Trevor Cresmont have a long history of deaths behind them… the murderous kind.
Rich, privileged, and seemingly untouchable, the Cresmont brothers have enough money to stay above suspicion—even though everyone in Happy Valley believes they’re responsible for their ex-girlfriends’ deaths. First, there was Victoria Moreno, a soccer star and Robbie’s ex, who mysteriously drowned at the family lake house. Then, a year later, Trevor’s girlfriend died of a suspicious overdose.
But the Cresmonts aren’t the only ones hiding secrets.
Lauren O’Brien may be the new girl at school, but she’s far from a “good girl.” Haunted by a dark past, she’s desperate for a fresh start. However, when she begins a no-strings-attached relationship with Robbie, her chance at a new life is put at risk.
During what’s supposed to be their final weekend together, Lauren stumbles upon disturbing evidence that could incriminate him.
As danger closes in, she no longer knows who to trust. And when a third death rocks the town, Lauren must decide whether to walk away from Robbie… or risk becoming his next victim.
Review: The Perfect Summer YA Thriller
Adapting The One Who Got Away With Murder for the screen shouldn’t be too much of a challenge: this book already reads like a binge-worthy series. It’s a true page-turner, driven by the urgent need to uncover/confirm the killer’s identity.
The premise may be fairly classic, but it’s undeniably effective. The tense, slightly claustrophobic atmosphere keeps the suspense high throughout, while the constant twists and red herrings keep readers guessing.
And the pacing? Well, it is fast, thanks to the straightforward and accessible writing, and the story flows effortlessly from start to finish.
The Weak Point: Character Development
If Hulu moves forward with the adaptation, the real challenge will likely be deepening the characters and their relationships.
The opening scene sets expectations for stronger romantic development and familiar tropes that the story ultimately doesn’t fully deliver on.
But the most noticeable issue lies in the protagonist.
Lauren fits perfectly into the “new girl” archetype and, thanks to her rebellious streak, she often pushes the plot forward. However, she lacks the strength and charisma of some of the most iconic YA amateur detectives.
The comparison to characters like Pip Fitz-Amobi is inevitable… and, unfortunately, Lauren doesn’t quite measure up.
Her mysterious past is revealed gradually, which adds intrigue and keeps readers curious about her backstory. Still, it’s not enough to make her arc truly memorable. At times, her naïveté and questionable decision-making can even feel frustrating.
She’s easy to relate to on a personal level, but as an investigator… let’s just say she leaves a lot to be desired.
Structure and Pacing
Despite these weaknesses, the first-person narration works well overall.
The plot is solid, packed with well-executed twists that keep readers engaged (almost) until the very end. The brisk pacing and accessible writing style make this a quick and enjoyable read.
Some readers might find the ending a bit predictable, and the final cliffhanger somewhat rushed.
And honestly? That’s a fair critique.
That said, it’s important to remember that The One Who Got Away With Murder is aimed at a YA audience—and it’s also a debut novel.
From that perspective, Trish Lundy handles her “trial by fire” more than competently.
Yes, the book has its flaws—but it’s also gripping, immersive, and fun, with that slightly campy tone we’ve come to associate with many successful teen-oriented stories (think School Spirits, for example).
Would I recommend it to hardcore adult thriller purists? Probably not.
But if you’re a fan of YA mystery and thriller books… this one is definitely worth adding to your reading list.
What to Read After The One Who Got Away With Murder
- Not Quite Dead Yet by Holly Jackson
- The Cheerleaders by Kara Thomas
- So Happy Together by Olivia Worley
- They Wish They Were Us by Jessica Goodman
