Here Lies Daniel Tate by Cristin Terrill is a captivating new YA novel that depicts the life of a runaway teen who’s looking for a new start. While it’s mainly a mystery, this novel also presents the pain and struggles of family life, the confusion that comes with adolescence, and the danger of secrets and lies. Told with intrigue and plenty of suspense, Terrill is sure to surprise YA audiences, giving them a shocking story woven with lies and deceit; it is impossible not to get caught up in the drama that ensues.
His name is not disclosed, his past is murky, and the only thing that is certain is that he is a runaway, looking for a new start to forget the past. When he steals Daniel Tate’s identity, everything begins to change. Not only has he been given the chance to start over and take control of his own life, but he has resurrected the missing boy named Daniel Tate, the son of a rich family. Now living in luxury, the new Daniel Tate must try to fit in with his new family, hiding any signs that will unravel his deceit-filled plan. With plenty of family drama, suspicious siblings, and a mother who’s on the brink of insanity, the imposter must determine whether his lies are worth hurting and destroying the family he has grown to love — a choice that could mean unfathomable consequences.
Here Lies Daniel Tate was very unique and captivating. From the well-developed characters to the constant mystery of the novel, I was very intrigued by both the plot and the intricate family dynamics presented. While some parts of the plot seemed a bit slow and some aspects felt a bit far-fetched, the novel still proves to be engaging enough to keep audiences reading. For anyone seeking a solid thriller-like mystery, this is a novel that is guaranteed to please.
Everything seems uncertain, but this unknown teen criminal has stumbled upon the opportunity of a lifetime, posing as the missing child of a well-to-do family who has been desperately hoping for their lost son to return. But first, he must prove his authenticity, with judgment and skepticism around each corner of the mansion. Will this imposter of Daniel Tate be able to convince his new family that he is their son, or will his plan fall to pieces?