The Counselors Book Review
The Counselors by Jessica Goodman book review and recommendation with NO SPOILERS
Date: 4-25-25 Post Written By: MK Overall Rating: 6.4/10
Book Cover Rating: 8.4/10
(My personal opinion)
Title: The Counselors
Author: Jessica Goodman
Pages: 343
Genre: Young Adult, Realistic Fiction, Mystery
Subplots: Thriller, Trauma
Romance Level: 1/3
Publisher: Razorbill
Published: 2022
Number of Editions: 11
Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Ebook, Audio
Goodreads Rating: 3.54/5
# of Goodreads Ratings: 16,267
Amazon Rating: 4.0/5
# of Amazon Ratings: 949
Movie/TV Show?? : No
Book Type: Standard
POV Type: Single, First Person
Pacing: Medium
Generally: Past traumas, summer camp, dead teenager, best friends
My Review
Going Into It:
Going into this book I was honestly a little concerned because I’ve never really loved Jessica Goodman books before.
Main Characters:
Goldie Easton- Goldie is an 18-year-old ‘townie,’ meaning she lives in Roxwood. But, she’s also a ‘lifer,’ meaning she has gone to Camp Alpine Lake her whole life. She is strong hearted, but has had past traumas. Her family is definitely not nearly as well off as some others.
Ava Cantor- Ava is also an 18-year-old ‘lifer,’ but she definitely isn’t a townie. She is part of one of the richest families in New York. She is passionate and deeply loyal. She is also best friends with Goldie and Imogen.
Imogen- Imogen is another 18-year-old Camp Alpine Lake ‘lifer.’ She is an aspiring actress from a well off New York family. She is also best friends with Ava and Goldie.
Honestly, these three main characters felt cliche to me. I didn’t find anything particularly unique or inspiring about them. I didn’t mind Goldie, but a significant part of her personality was based on previous trauma. While they did feel fairly flat, I loved that they had some character development.
Character Rating: 5.9/10
Setting:
This book takes place at Camp Alpine Lake in Roxwood, Maine.
I loved the rich summer camp this took place in, but no particular parts stood out. It was generally average.
Setting Rating: 5.6/10
Plot:
This plot certainly hooked me! This plot was perfect for a summery, entertaining, book. But, at the same time, the mystery itself was lacking. It wasn’t quite as refined or put together. Also, I felt that some parts of this were completely unnecessary. Personally, I still enjoyed this book, but critics would likely find it lacking.
Plot Rating: 6.9/10
Writing:
Jessica Goodman did a great job with this young adult book. Her writing wasn’t anything outstanding, but matched this book well. She did a great job keeping the reader on the edge of their seat. Her writing was never confusing.
Writing Rating: 8.7/10
Ending:
This was a bit of an anticlimactic ending. I felt that it really built up to a climax, then fell short. I was happy with how everything ended for the characters, but wished it was a little more realistic. There were also some plot holes. 🙁
Ending Rating: 4.9/10
The Overall:
Overall, this was an entertaining, summery read. There were significant parts that felt unrefined and with room for improvement, but others that kept me on the edge of my seat. Honestly, I didn't feel much connection to any of the characters, and many of their interactions felt cliche. The plot also had some unnecessary parts and holes. That being said, Jessica Goodman did a great job with her writing and ability to hook the reader. I would summarize this book as a good casual read, but nothing that really sticks with you.
Overall Book Rating: 6.4/10
I would maybe recommend this book
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Or buy on Amazon: The Counselors
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Jessica is a bestselling author
The majority of the books she writes are young adult thrillers
She has also written a variety of articles for famous magazines
For more information, view Jessica Goodman’s website: Goodmanjessica.com
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What did you think of this book??
Reach out below anytime! Whether to share your opinion of this book, comment on mine, ask for similar suggestions, or ask for more clarity/spoilers for this book. I’d love to answer any questions, share more opinions, or hear your thoughts!! Thanks so much!!