Karen M Mcmanus

Karen M. McManus, born in 1969, is an American writer primarily recognized for her young adult fiction, particularly within the mystery genre. Her career launched with the novel "One of Us Is Lying," which achieved significant commercial success, remaining on The New York Times Best Seller list for an extended period. This debut was followed by sequels and several standalone novels, solidifying her presence in the young adult literary landscape.

McManus's educational background includes a bachelor's degree in English literature from the College of the Holy Cross and a Master of Arts in journalism from Northeastern University. Her writing journey began at a young age, sparked by a school assignment. Beyond her "One of Us Is Lying" series, which was adapted into a television series, she has penned other successful standalone titles that have garnered critical attention and bestseller status. McManus resides in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and has noted a personal tradition of rereading Donna Tartt's "The Secret History" annually.

Karen M. McManus established herself as a prominent author of young adult fiction with her debut novel, "One of Us Is Lying." This book achieved considerable acclaim, spending over five years on The New York Times Best Seller list. The success of her first novel led to the creation of a trilogy, including the sequels "One of Us Is Next" and "One of Us Is Back." In addition to this series, McManus has authored several standalone novels that have also resonated with readers and critics. These include "Two Can Keep a Secret," which received a starred review from Kirkus Reviews and was recognized as one of the best books of its publication year. Her other standalone works, such as "The Cousins," achieved bestseller status and garnered award nominations, including an Edgar Award. Her bibliography further includes "You'll Be the Death of Me," "Nothing More to Tell," and "Such Charming Liars," demonstrating a consistent output of popular young adult mysteries.

McManus's passion for writing emerged early in her life, at the age of eight, during a school writing assignment. This formative experience ignited a lifelong interest in storytelling. She pursued her literary interests through higher education, first attending the College of the Holy Cross, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in English literature. Continuing her academic journey, she then enrolled at Northeastern University, earning a Master of Arts degree with a specialization in journalism. This academic foundation in both literature and journalistic practice likely informs her approach to crafting compelling narratives and well-researched plots in her novels.