This book follows Ren Taylor as she returns to the town where her sister tragically died ten years ago. As young girls are, yet again, turning up dead, Ren is determined to help the girls left alive to prove who was responsible, even if no one else wants to believe it.

The premise of this book was promising and there were certain parts I really enjoined. I liked how Ren’s sister haunts her and acts as a kind of conscience or devil on the shoulder, and I liked the way that we kept getting snippets of the story throughout. It was definitely hard to put down!

My main issues with the book were that the teenage characters did not feel believable (at one point they read from a girl’s diary where the character had written, to herself ”NO CAP!” which felt… off), that the dialogue felt stilted at times and that the story progressed without that many surprises or twists - it was just a bit too predictable.

Overall I enjoyed it, but it did not surprise me enough to keep me entirely hooked all the way through. I would still recommend it for someone who enjoys thrillers with feminist themes though and I feel like I’ll still be thinking about it for a while!

Ren returns to the school she attended with her sister who was a senior, in a role as a biology teacher, her sister was a teenager at the time who was murdered. On her return to the school Ren realises she may still be recognised by staff that may still be working there but she does so to try and obtain some closure, she is looking for answers. Ren’s sister was extremely popular and her death left a haunting unresolved mystery that has had a major impact on the school and some believed her murder may have been committed by a teacher, one who was a staff member at the time. Details presented to the reader are few but on REN’s arrival she becomes suspicious of a teacher who works out the room across from her when she sees a young student leave this room in tears and she decides to find out more about this person.

The book is well written and takes the reader on a journey that explores many themes and does make you think, the complex emotions you are left feeling I think is what makes the story.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy, all opinions expressed are my own.

this was a really good book! I liked the mystery and thrill of it all. I do like how it had past secrets come up and be discovered when new things are unraveled. I like the pace of the book as well! It was a good story

Thank you to NetGalley, to the author, and to the publisher for this complimentary ARC in exchange for my honest review!!!

Fourteen years after her sister is killed, Ren returns home to teach biology at her Alma mater. There she meets the handsome physics teacher, but something about him feels off.

She becomes suspicious when the bodies of two teenaged girls are found. Ren must face her past to help find out what happened to these young girls.

I really enjoyed this book. Mainly because it was such a quick read. From the beginning I wanted to know what was going to happen next. There were definitely some parts that dragged. And while I didn’t guess the “twist” I wasn’t particularly shocked because just before it happened it felt…given away. Overall, good read!

I really enjoyed this and flew through it. I thought I knew what was happening but NOPE! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC!

I greatly enjoyed this book and was very pleased with the plot twists involved. This book did not feel rushed and there was great explanations for the characters actions and motives. The ending was satisfying for the story.

Thank you kindly to Poisoned Pen Press and Marlee Bush for the opportunity to read this ARC via NetGalley.

It only took me 4 days to read this book, and I'm a slow reader. I was hooked from Chapter 1! There were parts of this book that read like a Lifetime movie, but the end offered a twist that deviated from that sort of comparison for me.

In some of the dialogue-heavy sections, it was difficult for me to tell who the speaker was, but I'm wondering if that was intentional. It seemed that lines were blurred, and I wondered if Ren has Multiple Personality Disorder/ Dissociative Identity Disorder and/ or if Oliva is an alter ego that Ren has fabricated with elements from her own persona and Margo's. Do the ghost appearances feed into the MPD/ DID theory with what is known about how people with the aforementioned conditions create splits/ personalities as a coping mechanism for having survived traumatic situations?

Parts that remain unclear for me are the timing of Alejandra's disappearance and discovery of remains as compared to her journal, the discussion of the bumper sticker, the description of some of the girls' vehicles, familial relationships, and so on. The end was such a rush.

As difficult as parts of this novel were to read, I appreciate the author removing the stigma surrounding reporting SAs. Even if you've had attraction to someone, if you've fantasized, if you've had sex with that individual previously, if you're a minor, if you've expressed (in any way) that you're not comfortable with a sexual activity .. then there is no consent. It's so gross that there are states in the U.S. where the age of consent is under 18. I hope to see that change in my lifetime.

I wish I could properly articulate all my feelings surrounding these topics. I loved how even when Ren's colleagues and superiors casted doubt on her allegations, her priority was always on protecting the girls and being their voice when they couldn't find their own. She didn't let anyone intimidate her when when they were being physically imposing and threatening, and she always managed witty comebacks with Principal Smart and Coach Davis.

Thanks again for the opportunity to read Whispers of Dead Girls.

First time reading this author. Fantastic book overall. The plot is THICK. About halfway through, you think you have it figured out and you’re WRONG. Then let me tell you, when you get to the end, you’re wrong again! A wild, dark, twist, and turn-ey, ride of a book!

I really enjoyed how good Marlee Bush wrote this, it had that element that I was looking for and was invested in what was happening. The characters had that feel that i was hoping for and enjoyed how they worked in this universe. It had that element that I enjoyed from the psychological thriller novel.

"Whispers of Dead Girls" is an enjoyable and fast-paced read. The story has themes of sisterhood, ghosts/haunting, and evil. It's a perfect book for travel as it's one you'll want to read in a single sitting. Recommended for readers who enjoy mysteries about missing girls. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

#WhispersOfDeadGirls

3.5/5 (rounding up)

I received an ARC of this novel by Marlee Bush releasing May 27, 2025.

The story revolves around Ren, a woman returning to her hometown a decade after the death of her sister. Securing a teaching job at their old high school, she attempts to make peace with the memories that have haunted her for years. Girls again begin to go missing in the area. As Ren is forced to confront her past, she goes to great lengths to stop history from repeating itself.

This was my first read by this author. While the writing did not blow me away, I found the story to be engaging and fast-paced. The theme of feminine rage was strong with this one throughout which I always appreciate (though I wish the author would've committed a bit more in the end).

I doubt I will ever revisit this one, but if you're looking for an easy popcorn thriller, this one fits the bill!

Thank you Netgalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Marlee Bush's “Whispers of Dead Girls” is a deeply atmospheric and emotionally charged psychological thriller that explores grief and the devastating impact of unresolved trauma. Set in a small town steeped in dark secrets and rumors, the story unravels as Ren Taylor returns to her high school, where her past and present collide in haunting and unexpected ways.

The book opens with Ren imagining her deceased sister, Margo, speaking to her—a stark reminder of Ren’s unreliable narration and her fragile grip on reality. Fourteen years after Margo’s death, the town remains consumed by rumors and the shadow of scandal. As a teacher now herself, Ren encounters Bryson Lewis, a charming physics instructor whose behavior raises alarms. Haunted by her own traumatic past and the loss of her sister, Ren becomes obsessed with protecting her students and uncovering the truth about Bryson, no matter the cost.

Bush crafts Ren as a flawed but relatable protagonist. Her relentless pursuit of justice and her deeply rooted guilt over her sister’s death drive the story forward, but her reckless actions and blurred boundaries with her students often challenge your sympathy as Ren aligns herself too much into a protector persona. Ren's skewed perspective, shaped by her traumatic experiences with predatory figures in her youth, is both a strength and a vulnerability, making her an unpredictable and compelling character.

The setting of the small town amplifies the tension, with its suffocating gossip and lingering memories of the past. Bush masterfully layers the story with themes of parental neglect and the psychological scars of loss. These elements create a chillingly realistic backdrop for Ren's spiraling obsession.

The central mystery surrounding Bryson Lewis and the echoes of the past is gripping, with steady revelations and a few well-placed twists. Bush's execution of the final twist is both satisfying and true to Ren’s character. The story’s pacing is fast, driven by Ren’s impulsive decisions and the urgency of uncovering the truth, though I wish Ren would have thought through some of her decisions more and better considered her role as a teacher more when interacting with her students.

Bush’s writing style is a standout feature with an eerie and oppressive atmosphere created and established throughout the book. The dynamic relationships and strong bonds between the characters, particularly the sisters, add emotional depth to the story. Ren and Margo’s connection is at the heart of the story, highlighting the fierce, protective love that lingers even after death.

Overall, “Whispers of Dead Girls” is a haunting and intricately layered thriller that explores the darker corners of guilt and revenge. Marlee Bush's masterful storytelling and the emotional complexity of her characters make this a standout addition to the genre. Fans of psychological thrillers will be drawn into this chilling tale of redemption and justice, eagerly turning pages until its shocking conclusion.

"This is the worst part when someone you love dies. How you have to share them with others. Even people who didn't know them. They look at me like they understand my grief, like they're active participants in it."
Ren Taylor is back at her old highschool as a science teacher. She is still trying to cope with her sisters death from 14 years ago. She meets a young male teacher named Bryson whom reminds her of an old teacher she had. She can't help but to think something suspicious is going on with him when she sees a student named Olivia crying coming out of his class. Memories flood into her mind from 14 years ago and with that she is determined to stop the same thing from happening again.
I really liked this book. The plot was easy to follow and some parts of plot you could easily guess. But the twist at the end was well worth it. I liked the characters. Ren at first seemed annoying especially with her questioning everything and everyone. The male characters are unlikeable but I mean we have these types in real life. I would recommend this book to others. Thank you NetGalley.

omg what a thriller!!! this is a good girls guide to murder but from the teachers POV and i could not put it down. Ren's sister was murdered as a teenager by possibly a teacher. 10 years later she returns as a biology teacher and notices something off about the male teacher across the hall. when the bodies of two teenager girls are found is he suspicious and can she help the students???

Ren returns to her hometown after a decade away and she's immediately thrust back into the memories that forced her to leave all those years ago. When Ren was a freshman, her older sister Margo, a senior, was killed amid rumors that swirled around a young male teacher. The actual details are withheld from the reader for a large portion of the story so you're not quite sure who is to blame. There are plenty of references to either Ren or Margo being taken advantage of by the teacher but it's kept vague to build suspense. It also mirrors what's happening in the present, when Ren sees another young teen that appears to be similarly groomed like Ren/Margo/both were. She digs in, determined to find out if the girl is in trouble, even though fellow teachers, the principal, and even the girl herself, try to convince her that she's fine.

So the suspense of the story lies in what really happened with Margo and what may or may not be happening now. There are plenty of cliches - her sister appearing from beyond and holding conversations with Ren (which I'm not a fan of and takes up too much of the dialogue), suspicious situations with too easy explanations, etc. Everyone thinks Ren is just reliving the trauma of losing her sister. Although, you'd think they'd have learned that just because someone appears nice and normal doesn't mean they couldn't be a predator. Unfortunately, Ren's character is so aggressive and suspicious of everything that you begin to think she really is just imagining a lot of what she believes.

It's a bit heavy-handed overall with the 'all men are evil' theme. There's maybe one male character that comes off in a good light. A bit too extreme, in my opinion. You can tell the same type of story but with a more realistic balance. Especially because the ending, which I did see coming, blows open the theory of who the most dangerous people actually are.

I actually lived this book! Mc has been living with guilt because she couldn't save her sister. 10 years later she returns to town and takes a job at the school. Needless to say, she begins digging and investing trying to bring justice. I couldn't put this book down! This was my first book I've read from this author and it's safe to say, I'll be looking out for more! Definitely would reccomend! In a heartbeat!

Thank you, NetGalley, for the chance to read and review Whispers of Dead Girls by Marlee Bush! I really enjoyed the story and characters. I did have a small portion of the plot figured out but did not see that end twist coming!

Solid book. Good plot, interesting characters/dialogue. Would consider recommending it. Decent editing and worldbuilding. Possibly some things that took me out of the narrative a few times, but overall an enjoyable read. I Will likely read the next installment if in a series, or look at the author’s other/future work.

Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy of Whispers of Dead Girls by Marlee Bush

I would give this book a solid 3.5/5 stars. I struggled to get into the storyline initially. Ren the main character struggled with memories of her deceased sister when returning to her high school as a Biology teacher. The storyline was difficult to keep up with initially and took a little time to become invested in. The main character was irritating to me, and it took me extra time to finish the book because I struggled to like her.

The plot twist at the end of the book was decent, I did not expect the path that the author chose. There were some things that were left unresolved in the book and I found that a little frustrating. Overall a good read and I would recommend it to those that enjoy thrillers.

Ren Taylor never planned to return to her old high school, but here she is, teaching biology in the same halls where her sister Margo’s memory still lingers. Margo, who was brutally murdered years ago, is remembered with a tribute in the school, but for Ren, her sister’s presence is far more personal—she still sees her. Margo’s ghost appears to Ren, offering cryptic advice and a haunting connection to a past that Ren can’t seem to escape.

In the classroom next door is Bryson Lewis, a charismatic teacher with an easy rapport with the students. At first glance, he seems harmless, but something about him unsettles Ren. When Olivia, a troubled student, begins behaving strangely and Ren catches her sneaking out of Bryson’s room, she becomes convinced that history is repeating itself—that the horrific thing that happened when she was in high school is happening again.

Ren grows increasingly obsessed with uncovering the truth. She’s determined to protect her students, even as Margo’s ghost warns her to tread carefully. But Ren’s relentless pursuit of answers begins to alienate her colleagues and students. What if she’s wrong? What if she’s the problem? And if she’s right, how can she make anyone believe her before it’s too late?

Marlee Bush’s Whispers of Dead Girls is a gritty, atmospheric thriller that tightens its grip with every chapter. The claustrophobic setting of the high school mirrors Ren’s growing desperation, and the dark undercurrents of the story create a sense of unease that never lets up. Ren is a deeply flawed protagonist—difficult to root for at times—but the explosive ending changes everything.

Bush masterfully blends the supernatural with psychological suspense, plotting a narrative that keeps readers guessing until the very last page. The novel starts with a slow burn, but by the end, it’s a full-throttle race to the finish.

For fans of unsettling, character-driven thrillers with a touch of the paranormal, Whispers of Dead Girls is a must-read.

#PoisonedPenPress #MarleeBush #WhispersOfDeadGirls