The Secret to Lying

James was the guy no one noticed—another fifteen-year-old living in a small town. So when he gets into the American Science and Mathematics Academy (or ASMA), a public boarding school, James decides that it’s time to leave the past behind. In a student body made up of nerds and geeks, being cool is easy. All it takes is a few harmless lies to invent the new James: rebel, punk, street fighter. Everyone’s impressed—except for the beautiful Ellie Frost, whose icy demeanor holds an inexplicable attraction for James, and the mysterious ghost44, an IM presence who sees right through his new identity. But James is riding high—playing pranks and hooking up with the luscious Jessica Keen. Things seem perfect until he begins having strange dreams of a dark city haunted by demons. As the line between dreams and reality blurs, James comes to discover the secret—and consequence—of lying.

“Opening your eyes and seeing the world — really seeing it — that’s what this powerful book is about.” -Lauren Myracle, bestselling author of the Internet Girls series and Bliss

“A fascinating, funny, and utterly engaging read.” -Laura Resau, author of Red Glass and The Ruby Notebook

“Engrossing and entertaining...A great read.” -Publishers Weekly

“A straightforward, from-the-gut story....Mitchell is definitely one to watch.” -Kirkus Reviews