Heartless, by Sara Shepard

Heartless is the seventh suspenseful book in Sara Shepard's Pretty Little Liar series. The Liars have a new problem this time, defending their mental stability. During the huge fire in the Hasting's backyard, all four girls saw Ali, their long dead friend, alive in the flames. They are told it was merely a hallucination but how likely is it that all four of them had the same hallucination? The Liars are taunted openly at school and by the media for believing that they saw Ali. Aria decides to go to a séance with an unlikely ally to figure out what really happened. Following A's orders, Emily impersonates an Amish girl and discovers many secrets that may lead her to A's killer. Hanna's father decides to send Hanna to a facility to help her recover. While digging for clues about Ali's murder, Spencer uncovers some nasty secrets about her family. Is A the girls' side?

Each time I read a book written by Sara Shepard, I fall in love. She is an amazing writer who understands exactly how things are in my/our generation. Shepard is very straightforward on problems involving family and school which is interesting to read. Other than that, this novel is filled with suspenseful information that makes you wonder if what you've previously learned is true. Overall, I liked this book and am eager to read the next one. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the television series and has an interest in realistic teen fiction. Also, if you have read any other books by Sara Shepard, I guarantee you'll love this one!

Reviewed by Kristine K, grade 9
Casa Verdugo Branch