Synopsis
At Wilberton Academy, few students are more revered than the members of the elite Wilberton Theatrical Society—a.k.a. the WTS—and no one represents that exclusive club better than Elizabeth Woodward.
Breathtakingly beautiful, beloved by all, and a talented thespian, it’s no surprise she’s starring as Juliet in the WTS’s performance of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy. But when she’s found dead the morning after opening night, the whole school is thrown into chaos.
Transfer student Abby Kita was one of the last people to see Elizabeth alive, and when local authorities deem the it-girl’s death a suicide, Abby’s not convinced. She’s sure there’s more to Wilburton and the WTS than meets the eye. As she gets tangled in prep school intrigues, Abby quickly realizes that Elizabeth was keeping secrets. Was one of those secrets worth killing for?
From: Abrams Books
Notes on This Title
The main character of this title is a queer teen girl who is coded as Japanese. This title includes depictions of violence, blood, homophobia, and a serial sexual abuser of children, as well as mentions of suicide.
Awards
Best Books 2025 - Publishers Weekly
Kirkus Reviews - Best Young Adult Books of 2025
The Beat’s Best Comics of 2025
Reviews
Starred Review: “Truly exceptional; a standout.” (Source: Kirkus Reviews)
Starred Review: “Twisty and captivating, this offers an incisive look at how power structures at institutions are enforced at the expense of vulnerable young girls.” (Source: Publishers Weekly)
“THIS PLACE KILLS ME is a fantastic work of YA noir, and it does not shy from the cruelty kids enact upon each other.” (Source: The Beat)
Interviews
None.