They Wish They Were Us, by Jessica Goodman, is a novel set in a gorgeous, elite private school, Gold Coast Prep. The story takes place in an extremely wealthy part of Long Island, New York, where gossip, drama, and a surprising murder occurs. Jill Newman, who is the main protagonist, is excited to start her senior year as part of the Players, a secret society whose members have access to a variety of school resources and have the respect of all their classmates. In order to become a player, eight freshmen are selected to perform a series of “pops” which are dangerous and sometimes embarrassing tasks. Once completed, the freshmen are sworn in on initiation day, marking their entry into the Player society. Three years ago, during their initiation, Jill’s best friend Shaila was pushed off a cliff and killed. Shaila’s boyfriend Graham confessed to her murder and the case was officially closed. Now, at the start of senior year, Jill receives a text from Rachel, Graham’s sister, proclaiming her brother’s innocence. The rest of the Players want to move on and forget about the tragic night of Shaila’s death, but Jill is determined to find out who is truly responsible, no matter the consequences.  
 

A story of mystery, murder, friendship and betrayal, They Wish They Were Us is a suspenseful and entertaining read. While the main plot is Jill’s mission to discover who killed Shaila, the story also revolves around the extravagant activities the Players perform and the selection of this year’s freshmen. The story includes several flashback scenes from when Jill and Shaila were freshmen, ultimately leading up to the events that occurred on initiation night. This writing style creates a well-rounded story and allows the reader to form their own theories as to who the murderer is, based on the discreet clues provided. I think Goodman did a great job on character development through Jill’s thoughts and ideas, and her goal to find justice for her friend made her instantly likeable, despite her flaws. Jill is torn between two love interests: her current boyfriend Robert and her friend Adam whom she secretly liked since freshman year, which comes to play a major role in the plot. The author also weaves themes about the presence of gender roles and the complexities of friendships, which gives the reader a deeper understanding of the novel.  
 

I would give this book 8/10 stars because I enjoyed the plot and how it keeps the reader guessing until the very end on how exactly Shaila was murdered. Some parts were a little slow, such as when the plot focused on the Players’ over the top parties and pops. However I do understand how those activities helped set the stage for the main plot. I am glad I finished the novel, as the conclusion provides a satisfying ending to an intricate plot. The book is currently being adapted into a TV series called The Player’s Table which is set to release sometime in 2022.  

Check out They Wish They Were Us from the Newport Beach Public Library.