At the Speed of Lies

I find conspiracy theories simultaneously confusing and compelling—and so does Quinn Calvert, the main character of this YA thriller from former CIA analyst Cindy Otis. All of the characters in this novel are relatable, real, and authentic, and none more so than Quinn. Not only does she have to juggle family, friendship, and romance, she also has to manage modern troubles like what it means to be a social media influencer and what happens when wild conspiracies take over the minds of people she knows and loves. That Quinn is disabled and uses a wheelchair adds another layer of complexity to the story, one that I found especially appealing and necessary (I struggle to think of another novel I've read with a disabled main character). Otis is a deft writer with a keen sense of pacing and a true talent for finding and sharing the hopes and heartaches of teens living in our complex and confusing world. This novel is a beautiful example of why both critical thinking skills and representation matter!

AT THE SPEED OF LIES may be written for young adults but as an adult I highly recommend this fun, thrilling book for all. It is wonderfully written with the true voice of a teenage girl who could actually be anyone one of us. CINDY OTIS has captured the perilous times in which we live and has given us a story that doesn't preach but thoughtfully helps us to see the dangers. I happened to read TRUE or FALSE her first non-fiction book a couple of years ago and was so impressed with Ms Otis scope of knowledge and her ability to educated. Both of these books should be in all school curriculum. But meanwhile any reader who loves an impossible to put down book needs to grab AT THE SPEED OF LIES. So fun! I bought 3 copies to give to friends - it's that good.

At The Speed of Lies, written by Cindy L Otis, is a thriller novel that highlights what happened in a high school after a conspiracy theory got out of control. But, lest you think this is just for high schoolers, there is so much more going on in this story. The conspiracy spreads throughout much of the town and beyond. The Speed of Lies highlights how rapidly false information (lies!) spread via social media, and how easily seemingly sane and logical people are led into that web of lies. At The Speed of Lies is something of warning to us all to "consider the source" before we run down rabbit holes and cling to what we read/see on social media.

"At the Speed of Lies" demonstrates how the lack of our ability to discern truths online can lead to crises, hate, and disruption of progress. A must-read for students.

This YA thriller kept me reading into the wee hours of the night to find out where the lies would end up. AT THE SPEED OF LIES , a fiction novel is so close to the truth!