Every Stolen Breath (Blink)

Every Stolen Breath follows 16-year-old Lia Finch as she works with an unexpected network of strangers to discover the truth behind her father’s murder. Inspired by the real-life, violent “flash mobs” that struck Chicago in 2011, this YA thriller shows just how hard one girl will fight back knowing any breath might be her last.

This fast-paced and immersive thriller shows just how hard one girl will fight back against corruption and violence, knowing any breath might be her last. Publisher’s Weekly said, “Gabriel's debut demonstrates how technology can be used to incite violence, and fans of Barry Lyga and Morgan Baden's The Hive will find a similarly themed, and similarly frightening, story here.” Also winner of the 2020 ILA Award for Best YA Fiction.

The Swarm is unrecognizable, untraceable, and unpredictable—a mob that leaves death in its wake. Public places are no longer safe. Every day is a threat. Though it’s been two years since the last attack, Lia Finch has found clues that the Swarm is ready to claim a new victim.

The last victim was Lia’s father, attorney Steven Finch. Devastated and desperate for answers, Lia will do anything to uncover the reasons behind his death and to stop someone else from being struck down. However, the odds are stacked against her: Lia’s PTSD from her father’s attack has left her with a shaky grip on reality, and her debilitating asthma is a time bomb that could kill her at any moment.

After a close encounter with the Swarm puts Lia on their radar, she teams up with a teen hacker, a reporter, and a mysterious stranger who knows firsthand how the Swarm works. Together, they work to uncover the master puppeteer behind the group. If Lia and her network don’t stop the person pulling the strings—and fast—Lia will be the next victim.

Inspired by the real flash mobs in Chicago, readers ages 13 and up won’t be able to put Every Stolen Breath down. This YA thriller is great for readers who enjoy mystery and suspense.