One of Us is Lying PDF: A Comprehensive Overview (February 19, 2026)
Today, February 19, 2026, offers access to the “One of Us is Lying” ebook in PDF and ePub formats.
The publisher provides a DRM-free version with digital watermarking, ensuring compatibility across various devices.
What is “One of Us is Lying”?
“One of Us is Lying”, penned by Karen M. McManus, is a gripping young adult mystery novel that debuted in 2017 and quickly captivated readers. The story centers around five high school students – Bronwyn, Addy, Nate, Cooper, and Simon – who enter detention, but only four come out alive. Simon, the creator of a notorious gossip app, dies mysteriously, and the remaining four become prime suspects.
The narrative unfolds as a compelling whodunit, drawing comparisons to “Pretty Little Liars” and “The Breakfast Club”. Each of the four surviving students harbors secrets, and as the investigation deepens, their carefully constructed facades begin to crumble. The novel is lauded for its “twisty plotting,” “breakneck pacing,” and “intriguing characterisation,” making it an “irresistible” read for mystery enthusiasts.
Available in both PDF and ePub formats, the book offers a thrilling experience, with a 34 MB PDF file size. It’s a tightly plotted story, brilliantly written, and has earned recognition from publications like HEAT, The Guardian, and The Sun, solidifying its place as a standout in the YA genre.
The Author: Karen M. McManus
Karen M. McManus is a celebrated American author specializing in young adult mystery and thriller novels. She gained widespread recognition with the publication of her debut novel, “One of Us is Lying” in 2017, which quickly became a New York Times bestseller. Her writing style is characterized by intricate plots, compelling characters, and a knack for keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
Prior to becoming a full-time author, McManus worked in marketing and public relations. She holds a degree from the College of William & Mary. Her success with “One of Us is Lying” led to the creation of a sequel, “One of Us is Next,” further expanding the captivating world she built.

The digital availability of her work, including the PDF version of “One of Us is Lying,” allows readers to easily access her thrilling stories. Penguin Random House Childrens UK publishes her books, and they are available through platforms like Audible and EALIB.COM, offering both reading and audiobook options to a broad audience.
Plot Summary & Core Mystery
“One of Us is Lying” centers around five high school students – Bronwyn, Addy, Nate, Cooper, and Simon – who enter detention, but only four come out alive. Simon, the creator of a gossip app revealing scandalous secrets, is found dead, immediately casting suspicion on the remaining four. Each student had a motive, and secrets they desperately wanted to remain hidden.
The novel unfolds as a gripping whodunit, meticulously unraveling the truth behind Simon’s death. The core mystery revolves around determining whether Simon’s death was a tragic accident, a calculated murder, or something else entirely; As the investigation progresses, the surviving students become both suspects and targets, navigating a web of lies, betrayals, and hidden agendas.
Critics have lauded the book’s “twisty plotting” and “breakneck pacing,” describing it as a blend of “Pretty Little Liars” and “The Breakfast Club.” The PDF version allows readers to immerse themselves in this thrilling mystery, filled with cryptic clues and unexpected plot twists.
Availability of the PDF Version
The PDF version of “One of Us is Lying” by Karen M. McManus is widely available through various online retailers and digital libraries as of February 19, 2026. Platforms like EALIB.COM offer access to the full book for purchase, providing both PDF and ePub download options. Audible, an Amazon company, also distributes the ebook, adhering to their Conditions of Use.
The PDF file size is approximately 34 MB (34,093 KB), indicating a substantial read. Purchasing the ebook grants access to both PDF and ePub formats, catering to diverse reader preferences. The publisher ensures a DRM-free experience with digital watermarking.
Where to Download the PDF Legally
To legally obtain the PDF version of “One of Us is Lying”, several reputable platforms are available as of February 19, 2026. EALIB.COM is a direct source for purchasing the ebook, offering both PDF and ePub formats. Audible, an Amazon company, also provides legal access, subject to their Conditions of Use, ensuring a secure transaction.
Penguin Random House Childrens UK is the publisher and a reliable source. Avoid unofficial websites offering free downloads, as these often violate copyright laws and may contain malware. Stick to authorized retailers to support the author and ensure a safe download experience.
PDF File Size and Format Details
As of February 19, 2026, the PDF file size for “One of Us is Lying” by Karen M. McManus is approximately 34 MB, equivalent to 34,093 KB. This size allows for high-resolution text and potential embedded images within the novel. The format is standard PDF, ensuring broad compatibility across various devices and operating systems.
Alongside the PDF, the ebook is also available in the ePub format, offering a reflowable text experience adaptable to different screen sizes. The publisher provides both options, catering to reader preferences. The PDF maintains the original formatting of the book, ideal for those who prefer a fixed-layout reading experience.
The file is supplied in a DRM-free state, though it includes digital watermarking for copyright protection. This means no specific software is required to open it, just a standard PDF reader. However, encrypted versions may necessitate installing free unlocking software, as indicated by the publisher.
DRM and Encryption Status of the PDF
The “One of Us is Lying” PDF ebook is notably offered in a DRM-free (Digital Rights Management) format by the publisher, Penguin Random House Children’s UK. This is a significant benefit for readers, granting them greater flexibility in how they access and enjoy the book. However, it’s crucial to note that while DRM-free, the file incorporates digital watermarking as a copyright protection measure.
Despite the DRM-free availability, some versions of the ebook are supplied in an encrypted form. This encryption necessitates the installation of free software to unlock and read the file. This approach balances accessibility with copyright security. Readers encountering an encrypted file will need to follow the publisher’s instructions to obtain and install the necessary unlocking software.
The availability of both DRM-free and encrypted options provides choices for consumers. The DRM-free version allows reading on any device supporting PDF or ePub formats without restrictions, while the encrypted version offers an added layer of security.
Compatible Devices for Reading the PDF
The “One of Us is Lying” PDF ebook boasts broad compatibility, functioning seamlessly across a wide spectrum of devices. Thanks to the DRM-free nature of the file (or easily decrypted with provided software), readers aren’t limited by specific ecosystems. This includes, but isn’t restricted to, smartphones – both iOS and Android – and tablets from various manufacturers.

Furthermore, the PDF format ensures excellent readability on computers running Windows, macOS, and even Linux operating systems. E-readers, such as those from Kindle (though potentially requiring conversion) and Kobo, are also viable options. The publisher explicitly states compatibility with any device supporting DRM-free EPUB or DRM-free PDF formats.
For mobile reading, free apps are available for installation, facilitating access on phones and tablets. This widespread compatibility makes “One of Us is Lying” exceptionally accessible to a diverse readership, regardless of their preferred device or platform.
Required Software for Decrypted PDFs
While the publisher offers a DRM-free version of “One of Us is Lying,” some versions are supplied in an encrypted format, necessitating the installation of free software to unlock and enjoy the ebook. This ensures security while still providing access to purchasers. Fortunately, the process is straightforward, and several readily available options exist.
The publisher doesn’t specify particular software, but standard PDF decryption tools are generally effective. Users may encounter files requiring a password or specific application to remove the encryption. Common solutions include Adobe Acrobat Reader (with potential plugin requirements) and various open-source PDF unlocking utilities.

It’s crucial to download software only from reputable sources to avoid malware or security risks. Once decrypted, the PDF can be read using any standard PDF reader. The availability of free software ensures that readers can easily access and enjoy “One of Us is Lying” without incurring additional costs.
“One of Us is Lying” as a Flipbook
This format is particularly appealing for visual learners and those who enjoy a more immersive reading experience. The flipbook often includes features like zoom capabilities, page sharing options, and potentially embedded multimedia elements. Users can easily share links to the flipbook, promoting wider readership.

Critical Reception & Reviews
“One of Us is Lying” has garnered significant praise from literary critics and media outlets, contributing to its success as a New York Times bestseller. HEAT magazine describes the novel as “tightly plotted and brilliantly written, with sharp, believable characters,” deeming it “utterly irresistible.” The Guardian highlights its “twisty plotting, breakneck pacing and intriguing characterisation,” labeling it an “exciting single-sitting thrillerish treat.”
The Sun enthusiastically calls it a “fantastic murder mystery, packed with cryptic clues and countless plot twists,” emphasizing its captivating nature. Entertainment Weekly cleverly positions the book as “Pretty Little Liars meets The Breakfast Club,” appealing to fans of both genres. These reviews consistently praise McManus’s ability to craft a compelling mystery with relatable characters.
The positive reception has undoubtedly fueled the demand for the PDF version, allowing readers to easily access and enjoy this critically acclaimed young adult novel. Penguin Random House Childrens UK also distributes the work, further solidifying its reach and influence.
Comparisons to Other Popular YA Novels

“One of Us is Lying” frequently draws comparisons to other prominent young adult novels, particularly those within the mystery and thriller genres. The Entertainment Weekly comparison to “Pretty Little Liars” highlights shared elements of secrets, suspense, and a core group of teenagers entangled in a web of intrigue. However, McManus’s novel distinguishes itself with a more focused, contained narrative and a quicker pace.

Similarities are also noted with “The Breakfast Club,” referencing the novel’s exploration of high school stereotypes and the unexpected connections formed between seemingly disparate characters. Unlike the film’s focus on character development, “One of Us is Lying” prioritizes the unraveling of a central mystery.
The PDF version’s accessibility allows readers to easily compare and contrast McManus’s work with these established titles. It occupies a space alongside novels like those by Karen M. McManus herself, offering a similar blend of suspense and relatable teenage experiences.
Character Analysis – The Five Students
“One of Us is Lying” centers around five high school students – each holding secrets – who find themselves suspects in the death of Simon Kelleher. The PDF version allows for close examination of their individual narratives and motivations.
Addy, the popular prom queen, struggles with maintaining a facade. Bronwyn, the overachiever, fears her future being jeopardized. Nate, the criminal, faces prejudice and a troubled past. Cooper, the athlete, hides personal struggles beneath a confident exterior. And Simon, the creator of a gossip app, held damaging information about them all.
The novel’s strength lies in its believable characterizations; each student is flawed and complex. The PDF format facilitates detailed analysis of their interactions, red herrings, and evolving relationships as the mystery unfolds. Readers can easily revisit key passages to understand their individual perspectives and contributions to the central plot.
Themes Explored in the Novel
“One of Us is Lying”, readily available in PDF format, delves into several compelling themes beyond its central mystery. A prominent theme is the damaging impact of secrets and the lengths people will go to protect them. The PDF allows readers to meticulously trace how concealed truths drive the narrative and influence character actions.

The novel also explores the pressures of high school social hierarchies and the consequences of judging others based on stereotypes. The PDF version enables focused study of how these dynamics contribute to the suspects’ motivations and the investigation’s complexities.
Furthermore, the story examines the power of gossip and its potential to ruin lives, mirroring the very nature of Simon’s app. Accessing the text as a PDF provides a convenient way to analyze these themes, highlighting McManus’s insightful commentary on contemporary teenage life and the digital age.
Sequels and Related Works
Readers captivated by “One of Us is Lying”, and enjoying the convenience of the PDF version, will be pleased to know the story extends beyond the initial novel. Karen M. McManus penned a sequel, “One of Us is Next”, continuing the suspenseful narrative with a new cast of characters facing similar high-stakes mysteries.
The PDF format allows for easy comparison between the two books, noting recurring themes and McManus’s evolving writing style. A third installment, “One of Us is Lying/Next: The Complete Series”, compiles both novels for a comprehensive reading experience, readily available in digital formats including PDF.
McManus has also created interconnected stories within the same universe, offering fans further opportunities to explore her signature blend of suspense and teenage drama. The accessibility of the PDF versions of these works encourages deeper engagement with the author’s broader literary world, fostering a richer understanding of the characters and their interconnected fates.

Audible Audiobook Version Information

For those who prefer listening to reading, an Audible audiobook version of “One of Us is Lying” is readily available, complementing the popular PDF ebook. Purchasing the title through Audible grants access under their Conditions of Use, ensuring a legally obtained listening experience.
The audiobook, narrated by a professional voice actor, brings the characters and suspenseful plot to life in a new dimension. This is particularly appealing for readers who enjoy multitasking or prefer auditory learning, offering a convenient alternative to the PDF format.
Sold and delivered by Amazon, the audiobook’s quality is assured. While the PDF provides a visual reading experience, the audiobook offers immersive storytelling. Both formats allow fans to fully engage with Karen M. McManus’s thrilling narrative, catering to diverse preferences and reading styles. The audiobook is a fantastic companion to the PDF version.