Lifers by M.A. Griffin

Lifers by M.A. Griffin is a gripping YA dystopian thriller perfect for fans of The Maze Runner and Gone.
When 16-year-old Fearne is falsely accused of a crime, he is exiled to Deadwater, a mysterious prison island surrounded by darkness and danger. Known as a place where young offenders disappear without trace, Deadwater is a world ruled by gangs, secrets, and terrifying truths.
 
Fearne quickly discovers that survival depends on alliances—and that the island hides a deadly conspiracy more dangerous than the crimes he was accused of.
Fast-paced, tense, and filled with shocking twists, Lifers explores themes of justice, survival, and truth in a brutal dystopian setting.
 
🎯 Perfect For
Fans of The Maze Runner by James Dashner and Gone by Michael Grant
YA readers who enjoy dark thrillers and survival stories
Teens who love mystery-driven dystopian fiction
Classroom/library readers exploring justice and morality in speculative settings
 
💡 Why You’ll Love It
Suspenseful mix of mystery, dystopia, and survival action
Dark and atmospheric setting (Deadwater Island)
Explores injustice, betrayal, and resilience
Complex characters with shifting loyalties
A standalone YA dystopian thriller—no long series commitment