Published: 2025 | Genre: Psychological Thriller | Pages: ~336 (estimated) | Rating: ★★★★☆
A Book That Grabbed Me and Didn’t Let Go
I’m that person who’s always begging friends for a thriller that’ll keep me up all night, and The Payback Girls by Alex Travis, hot off the press in 2025, totally delivered. This debut had me clutching my coffee, gasping at twists, and texting my sister, “You NEED to read this!” If you’re into Bald-Faced Liar or love stories about revenge with a side of mind-bending suspense, this book’s gonna be your new favorite. Here’s why The Payback Girls is such a wild ride and who’s gonna eat it up—no spoilers, I’ve got your back!
What’s the Vibe?
The story follows three women—Lila, Mia, and Tess—who meet in a support group after each suffers a betrayal that turns their lives upside down. Think cheating partners, backstabbing friends, the works. They bond over their anger and hatch a plan to get even, but their revenge scheme spirals into something way darker. As secrets unravel and their lives tangle, you’re left wondering who’s playing who and what’s really at stake. It’s a fast-paced dive into friendship, betrayal, and justice, set in a glossy city that hides some ugly truths.
Travis’s setting is so alive—think chic lofts and shady bars that feel like they could be in my own city. I’m a sucker for stories about women taking charge, so this one hit all my buttons. It’s like a girls’ night out turned into a crime drama!
Why I Was Obsessed
Travis writes like she’s dishing gossip—fast, sharp, and so juicy you can’t stop. Lila, Mia, and Tess are like friends you’d grab drinks with: flawed, fierce, and totally real. Lila’s the planner, Mia’s the wildcard, and Tess is the quiet one with surprises up her sleeve. The way their friendship grows, then cracks, kept me hooked. The suspense is insane—every chapter drops a new clue or twist that had me yelling, “Oh, come ON!” to my empty living room.
The themes of revenge and loyalty really got me. In 2025, when trust feels so fragile, their fight to take back their power felt like a battle cry. Travis nails the psychological stuff—making you question who’s right, who’s wrong, and if revenge is ever worth it. The diverse cast, with different backgrounds and motives, adds so much flavor. It’s a rollercoaster of “What just happened?” and “Don’t trust her!” that thriller fans live for.
Any Downsides?
The Payback Girls is a blast, but it’s not perfect. The first few chapters juggle three perspectives, which felt a bit messy until I got the rhythm. I wanted a tad more backstory on Tess—she’s awesome but a little mysterious. One twist near the end was so bonkers it almost felt too wild, though it didn’t ruin the vibe. These are small quibbles in a book that’s otherwise a total thrill.
Who’s It For?
This book’s a dream for psychological thriller fans who love female-led stories, sneaky twists, and revenge drama. If you devoured The Echo of Lies by Shari Lapena or Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney, you’ll be all over this. It’s perfect for readers who want fast-paced suspense with messy, real characters, great for ages 16+ due to mature themes and some dark moments. If you’re into epic fantasies like Onyx Storm, the modern, city vibe might feel less intense.
Why It’s Getting Buzz
The Payback Girls is blowing up on BookTok in 2025, with fans obsessed over the girls’ friendship and those jaw-dropping twists. Travis’s fresh voice makes this debut stand out in a crowded genre, and the focus on women fighting back is so empowering. Publishers Weekly called it “a sharp, addictive revenge tale,” and I’m totally here for it. As a standalone, it wraps up perfectly but leaves you craving more from Travis.
My Final Take
The Payback Girls is a pulse-pounding thriller that’ll have you cheering and gasping. Alex Travis spins a tale of revenge and secrets, with characters who feel like your besties—until they’re not. I’m giving it four out of five stars for its killer suspense and fierce women, with a tiny dip for the tricky start. If you’re ready to root for Lila, Mia, and Tess, grab this book and buckle up.
Want to join the revenge party? Snag The Payback Girls at your local bookstore or check Bookshop.org to support indie sellers. Read it yet? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
