Imagine being the town's most infamous gossip blogger—then suddenly becoming the most hated person overnight. That’s exactly where Ruby, the sharp-tongued, quick-witted protagonist of You're Dead to Me, finds herself. But just when she thinks public disgrace is the worst thing that could happen, she receives a terrifying premonition: her own ghost, drenched in blood, warning her that she won’t make it past prom night.
Amy Christine Parker, and Delacorte Press come together to craft a high-stakes thriller where secrets are currency, enemies are everywhere, and survival is a race against time. With its deliciously campy horror vibes, Florida coastal town setting, and a plot that never slows down, this book is perfect for fans of dark academia, murder mysteries, and Scream-style suspense. Publicity Prose sponsors this book tour, read my full review below and be sure to enter the giveaway!
Title: You're Dead to Me
Author: Amy Christine Parker
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Release Date: December 10, 2024
Book Buy Links: Goodreads, Amazon
About the book:
How do you unmask your own killer when
everyone wants you dead?
"A twisty thriller with a bloody ending you’ll never see coming."—Kelly Coon, author of Gravemaidens
Ruby is a scholarship senior at elite Oleander High School with a chip on her shoulder and an attitude to match—which she puts to good use as the infamous local anonymous gossip blogger ReputationKiller. When she’s outed as the voice behind the account, the entire town turns against her.
But after she’s scared witless by a vision of her own ghost dressed in a blood-splattered prom dress, she is faced with an awful truth. Someone out there doesn’t just hate her—they want her dead.
With less than a week until the prom, Ruby starts investigating. Turns out Oleander Bay isn’t the picture-perfect resort town it appears to be. With so many secrets, scandals, and people hell-bent on covering them up at all costs, the murderer could be anyone. Can Ruby beat the clock counting down to prom—and her death—and survive the night?
My Review
Ruby is no stranger to making enemies. As ReputationKiller, she’s exposed the town’s dirty secrets for years, but when her identity is revealed, she quickly goes from feared to despised. Her classmates, teachers, and even the town’s elite turn against her.
Then comes the horrifying vision—her own ghostly doppelgänger in a blood-soaked prom dress. Is it paranoia? A sick joke? Or an actual warning from beyond the grave? As Ruby investigates, she peels back the shiny façade of Oleander Bay, uncovering a web of betrayal, deceit, and long-buried secrets. But the deeper she digs, the clearer it becomes—someone is out for blood.
And time is running out.
Characters: A Fierce Heroine & A Town Full of Suspects 🕵️♀️
Ruby is an unforgettable main character. She’s smart, independent, and fiercely determined, but she’s also flawed. Her sharp tongue and tendency to expose secrets make her a target, yet those same traits make her a force to be reckoned with.
The supporting cast is just as compelling. From wealthy, privileged classmates with something to hide to adults who may not be as innocent as they seem, the book keeps readers guessing who’s behind the threats against Ruby’s life. With so many potential suspects, the tension remains razor-sharp from start to finish.
Setting: Florida’s Dark Side 🌴🔪
While Florida might conjure images of sunshine and beaches, You're Dead to Me showcases its eerie, atmospheric side. The contrast between the opulent Oleander High and the shadowy Everglades adds a haunting depth to the story. The small-town secrets, tourist traps, and looming sense of paranoia create a rich, immersive setting that makes the murder mystery even more chilling.
What I Loved ❤️
✅ Unpredictable Twists: Just when you think you have it figured out—BAM! Another shocking revelation.
✅ Sharp, Witty Writing: Ruby’s narration is bold, sarcastic, and full of personality.
✅ Perfect Balance of Horror & Mystery: Think Scream meets Pretty Little Liars—fun, suspenseful, and just the right amount of terrifying.
✅ Fast-Paced & Addictive: With a ticking clock until prom night, the tension never lets up.
What Could Have Been Better 🤔
❌ Some Over-the-Top Moments: The campy horror vibe is intentional, but a few scenes might feel exaggerated for some readers.
❌ Not for the Faint of Heart: If you’re looking for a light mystery, this one leans more toward intense psychological thrills and slasher-style horror.
Final Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5 Stars) 🌟
You're Dead to Me is an absolute must-read for fans of twisty thrillers with a dash of horror. It’s dark, gripping, and filled with surprises that will keep you flipping pages late into the night. With its sharp wit, chilling suspense, and an ending you’ll never see coming, this book cements Amy Christine Parker as a master of YA thrillers.
If you loved One of Us is Lying, A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, or The Ivies, this book needs to be on your TBR. Mark your calendars for December 10, 2024—you won’t want to miss this one!
📌 Would you survive prom night in Oleander Bay? Let me know in the comments!
About the author:
Amy Christine Parker is the author of Flight 171, Gated, Astray, and Smash & Grab. She writes full-time from her home near Tampa, Florida, where she lives with her husband, their two daughters, and two very mischievous cats. Find her online at amychristineparker.com.
Giveaway:
5 winners will receive a paperback copy of You're Dead to Me by Amy Christine Parker
US only, the giveaway starts at 12:01 am ET on January 27th and ends on February 9th at 11:59 pm ET.
Comments