The premise for this book lured me in and I was keen to read it.
I found there were a lot of references to Abdullah's previous book which made me want to read it, but this book was also fine as a standalone read.
As for the book itself, the subject matter is hard-hitting, but I didn't find any of the characters particularly likeable and was disappointed that this hadn't changed by the end.
To my mind there were also pacing issues, quite a lot happened at the beginning, then it dragged for a while and the ending felt rushed.
I also feel the ending was unsatisfactory and could have been better, but i can't say much more without giving anything away.
Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for my eARC in return for my honest review.

My second Kia Abdullah book so was excited to read her latest one.
An intense and emotional read dealing with the very difficult subject of male rape.
Kamran Hadid attends an exclusive public school and is set to go to Oxford when he is assaulted at a party.
The story follows the court case and the impact of the assault on Kamran, his family and those around him. The impact of this on his Muslim beliefs and his family are intense.
This is another challenging book, extremely well written and with some real surprises.
Not for the faint hearted but well worth reading.
Another success for Kia Abdullah

Kamran is an outstanding student at an exclusive boarding school for boys. He has a bright future ahead of him.
But one night, his life gets turned upside down.
Zara Kaleel, a former lawyer turned assault counsellor is there to guide him through the rape trial.

This is a follow-up book, but it reads fine as a standalone novel. However, I was glad to have read the previous one because it allowed me to have a better understanding of the recurring character, Zara.
This, just like the first book, was a good read and one that stands out among the novels of similar topic. The story is one that will stay with you for a while. However, since courtroom dramas are not my favourite, I'm not giving it more than 3 stars. I know both books received a lot of glowing praise and I think they are definitely worth checking out.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for this ARC.

Having read the author’s previous book I had high expectations here. I wasn’t disappointed, I think the author has a wonderful style of writing that immediately draws the reader in, and I really enjoyed this book. The story is told through different characters which I liked, and the author writes of a difficult subject very sensitively. I love the main character Zara, she is troubled, flawed, feisty and very likeable. Kamran and Adam were likeable characters and Kamran’s feelings, thoughts and emotions were heartbreaking to read and I had much empathy with him, especially when reading of his relationship with his parents, their high expectations of him and lack of support and understanding when he needed it most and, how for them, appearances mean everything. The courtroom scenes were realistic and believable. The reveal at the end shocked me and I look forward to the next book.

I read Kia Abdullah’s previous book a few weeks ago as a friend loaned it to me. It was a thought provoking and interesting novel with some major plot twists that I would never have guessed.
When I saw that her new book featuring ex barrister, “ Sara the Brave” was available on NetGalley I was very keen to read it.
Truth Be Told also tackled some harrowing themes including male rape and the position of women and homosexuality within a religious Moslem upbringing: it was not an easy read.
However it was one of those books I just couldn’t put down.
Kamran is a pupil at a very expensive private school. His father, Mack is a difficult man, religious with the expectation that both his sons Kamran and Adam, will be strong men who know their own minds. Sophie, Kamran’s mother comes across as weak and subservient although she does try to help her son when he needs her.
One night after a drunken party, Kamran returns to his room in his exclusive boarding school. On awakening he finds fellow pupil, Finn, in his bed and realises he has been raped.
The story is about Kamran’s feelings, the difficulties he has with his parents once he decides to take Finn to court and how the school tries to brush what has happened under the carpet.
Kamran goes to see Sara and although she normally counsels female rape victims she gets permission to help Kamran.
Due to their similar backgrounds, Sara can empathise with Kamran, particularly when his father cannot accept what has happened. Kamran’s parents cannot believe that a Muslim boy can be raped without fighting back: they are scared he might even be gay which is not acceptable in their religion.
Lacking parental support things go from bad to worse leading to a shocking conclusion for the family.
This is another amazing book by Kia Abdullah, if anything it is even better than Take It Back. I liked the cultural aspects of the story which the author describes so authentically and the theme of male rape is a taboo subject which is tackled extremely well. The book certainly made me think and it preyed on my mind long after I’d finished reading it.
I would highly recommend both this book and the author’s earlier novel.
I have no hesitation in giving this a five star review and am already looking forward to Kia Abdullah’s next book.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my arc in exchange for an honest review.

A few months ago I read the previous book in the series ' Take It Back' and I was so impressed with the content, characters, structure, courtroom and outcome. I cannot say I enjoyed reading the book as the subject is in no way one you can, as a normal, person, 'enjoy' but I struggle to find a word to replace my feelings on reading such a thought-provoking book in which you get fully immersed.
But...... I'm supposed to be reviewing 'Truth Be Told'. A book in a similar vein with another thought-provoking story but I felt fell short of the predecessor. I thought the courtroom scenes should have been more intensive and perhaps more should have been revealed during the trial and not afterwards. A clue toi was provided quite early on and hopefully this will not spoil anything for anyone i.e. 'M' for Major, Minor or Mack. Not sure if this was fully explained in the final section though.
So, I think I would have been more satisfied with a slightly different ending but then that's me - always a cheerful optimist.
Definitely a book that should be read nevertheless.

hypocrisies, and identities, entwined with social norms, expectations, and taboos, sanctioned by wealth and privilege..
This is the story of wealthy boys living a life of privilege and entitlement against the backdrop of cultural restrictions, and religious contradictions and how this affects how they cope with personal trauma.
The author writes with obvious expertise on the subject matter, and takes us on a realistic and emotional journey into the unspeakable world of tragedy and violence...Read it

Kia Abdullah has once again written a powerful, controversial courtroom and legal thriller on the taboo and disturbing issue of male rape, set against a backdrop that explores the dynamics of family, class, culture and religion. Despite the subject matter this doesn’t make for excessively uncomfortable read, the stories focus is more around the issues of consent and the impact of rape on the victim, the perpetrator, and their families.


The court case is based on “he said, he said” there is speculation, questions, and moral dilemmas, mixed in with the all to realistic emotions of its characters. What sets Kia apart from other writers is that she has this wonderful ability to make the reader feel some level of empathy towards each and every one of her characters. The court case is superb and you feel the tension mount as both sides of the argument are presented.  I mulled over each POV, trying to figure out the ‘rights and wrongs’ of the case and pondering all the grey areas in between, and found it very difficult to “pick a side”


Characters are such an essential part of a well-told story, and the author has created some exceptional ones, Zara Kaleel, one of London’s brightest young legal minds appears strong and determined but look under the flawless, public front and you will find a woman burdened with guilt at not being the perfect ‘Muslim girl’ that her family want her to be. Then you have Kamran, well educated, respectful, with impeccable manners ‘the perfect Muslim son’ dominated by a father who has very traditional Muslim values. My heart broke for Kamran. You feel his every emotion, guilt, resentment, bewilderment and anger at the situation he finds himself in.


The author keeps the reader on tenterhooks almost to the very last page. There were many surprises hidden within the pages that were unexpected but added to the overall tension. The court scenes felt tense and hard-hitting, and I found the characters to be relatable, the plot to be far from predictable.  Truth Be Told is a hard-hitting, powerful novel that made for an emotive read, it’s one I would highly recommend to those who appreciate a count drama, with a challenging storyline.

Seventeen-year-old Muslim Kamran Hadid is doing well and comfortable living and studying in a select boarding school near London. He comes from a wealthy family, and his younger brother (Adam) is also at the school.

But one night after a drunken school party Kamran is allegedly raped by one of his fellow classmates, Finn Andersen.

This is the setting for a wonderful story involving male rape, Muslim culture, life in a boarding school, a court case and characters who are believable. For example, Kamran's father struggles all the time with the events and is sympathetically 'handled' by Ms Abdullah.

Male rape is certainly a difficult and sometimes uncomfortable subject; it is well explained with the emphasis on saying the word "no".

This is not just a legal thriller, the book covers far more and, whilst very serious, is a great read.

Thanks to Net Galley and HQ for the chance to read and review.

Kia’s previous book was one of my favourite ever books so I was so excited to read Truth be Told. I found it to be a another amazing book, topical and gritty and extremely hard hitting. Powerful, explosive and important it captures today’s society vividly. With characters and a story that will leave me not stop thinking about for a long time it’s another highly recommended read from the author.. With thanks to the publisher and netgalley for an advance copy.

Wow - I could not stop reading this book and now I can’t stop thinking about it. Classed as a legal thriller this is so much more than a court room drama. When is rape not rape and what effect does making the allegation have on everyone else?
This is a good work of fiction that covers so many of these issues in an interesting, non-lecturing way.

I received a free copy of this novel from NetGalley in return for an honest review.

It took me a while to decide what I thought of this book. Something kept me plugging away at it. Then, it mesmerised me. Wow what a good book.

In the end I can say I loved it.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher I read a free advance review copy of the book. This review is voluntary, honest and my own opinion.

Wow, wow, wow another amazing book from Kia Abdullah. I had read her previous novel Take it back and I didn’t think anything could get better than that, but she has done it again with another powerful, controversial courtroom drama.
Seventeen-year-old Kamran Hadid has a great future ahead of him. He comes from a wealthy family, and he resides at Hampton select boarding school in London and already has a place at Oxford. You could say that life is sweet.
But one night after a drunken party and the boarding school something happens to him that changes, he life forever. After mistakenly leaving his room door open, he is raped by one of his fellow classmates.
Zara is at the helm pleading his case. Yet again it’s controversial as both boys are from different backgrounds and religions and the case is the matter of, he said she said and which of them are telling the truth. But also, if his family and his friends think that he is gay he will be shunned not only by his family but the community he lives in.
This is another brilliant thought-provoking courtroom drama from Kia Abdullah. That everyone will be taking about. I couldn’t get enough of it. I like how the author is not frightened to push the boundaries on such controversial subjects and it is so superbly written.
Once again thank you HQ and NetGalley for a copy of this book. It’s amazinnggg!!

A very intelligent and thought provoking book that covers the taboo subject of male rape and implied consent. With a setting of white privilege and the background of Muslim culture and beliefs, the story really is very hard hitting at times. Excellent characters throughout.

After reading her first book Take It Back which was an awakening and a solid five star read. Her latest is even better. Well written with sympathetic characters which were so relatable. The subject matter of this book was distasteful. What really is implied consent??? It plays out in court which left me thinking who were the real victims???. A thought provoking read which will start many conversations and in my opinion a masterpiece of the written word.
Thanks to H Q and Netgalley for the ARC in return for giving an honest review.

This is my second book by Kia Abdullah and although I loved the first book Take It Back I think this one also featuring Zara Kaleel is even better its just stunningly written.
This is a story of an accusation of rape made by Kamran Hadid the perpetrator being a fellow pupil Finn Anderson and it’s one tough subject to deal with but it’s done in a brilliant and compassionate way and has the ability to bring out many different feelings.
A completely though provoking read and one that made me stop and think many many times, dealing with family values and culture it was at times dreadfully sad but these characters really came to life for me making me care deeply as to what the outcome would be.
Kia Abdullah is a writer that finds her way into your heart and soul and I found myself stopping reading and thinking about the words I had just read and that truly is the sign of a mighty fine author.
So I hope we hear more from Zara Kaleel in any future books she is a wonderful character and one that I would love to know more from.
A five star read and totally recommended it’s a pearl of a book.
My thanks to NetGalley and HQ for giving me the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

I never repeat the blurb. Loved "Take it Back" but this was a an better and I devoured it in just a day. Wonderfully sympathetic characters and written with real insight. More please!

This is a very intelligent and thought provoking story told with empathy and realism. It tackles several taboos with a sensitive narrative and leaves lots of space for readers to consider different viewpoints. Despite the subject matter this doesn’t make for excessively uncomfortable reading, the story is more around the issue of implied consent and neither potential outcome at trial would have been either right nor wrong such is the ambiguity of the situation. The ending was a gut punch which just left you with debating who were the victims in all of this.

What to say about this novel, wow!!! Yes it does take some taboo issues, namely male rape, cohersive parenting, alongside wealth and entitlement in elite schools. What to do if you have been raped do.you try and forget it or report it and get justice? This is the quandary Kamran finds himself in after a night of partying ends up with him waking up next to another boy.... The problem is he's in his own room and went back alone, so how did Finn end up there next to him in bed? What should he do? He's not gay - can't be he's Muslim, what are his parents going to say??? Eventually he decided he needs to report it and so he does and goes through with the court case. It's a case of who do the jury believe? I did not see the plot twist at the end coming!!! Extremely well written, would recommend to family and friends.

*TRIGGER WARNINGS – Rape, Racism, Intimidation, Bullying, Violence, Mentally abusive parent*

I read Take It Back by Kia Abdullah in 2019, and it was one of my favourite books of the year. I loved it so much that I went out and bought myself a hardback copy, despite having already read an ARC copy from NetGalley. So when I heard about Truth Be Told, I couldn’t wait to read it, to find out how Zara’s story continues, and to see what she would be up against in this book.

Kia Abdullah has such a talent for pulling at your emotions, and making you feel every little detail of her stories. She makes the cases in her books feel so real, and this is probably helped by the fact that her writing is so relevant to the problems that are happening in today’s world.

Truth Be Told is an incredibly powerful story. At times it was a little difficult to read, but in a way that really shows what a truly talented writer Kia Abdullah is.

I felt so sorry for Kamran, and couldn’t even begin to imagine what he must have been feeling, or what he was going through. It is something that no-one should ever have to experience, but unfortunately it happens way too often. With the added pressure of his parents, Kamran’s life seems to be in tatters. Parents often believe that they are doing what is best for their child, when in reality, their actions are causing far more damage than they could ever realise, and this is certainly one of those cases. Kamran’s dad really believes that he is helping, but actually, his “parenting” techniques are crossing the line in to mental abuse, and making Kamran’s problems far worse.

The story really highlights the importance of consent, and how consent works. If someone doesn’t say no, that doesn’t mean they have consented, and if you take a person not saying no as a yes, it can have devastating effects on not only their life, but yours too. Unfortunately, not everyone sees consent this way, and that is another issue that is highlighted within the story.

This was something that Finn didn’t understand. He didn’t realise that what he had done was wrong, until it was too late, and he was facing the consequences. He took it that because Kamran didn’t say no, it had meant that he had wanted it, but that was very far from the truth, and Finn had to accept the punishment for what he had done. He didn’t mean to inflict any harm on Kamran, and genuinely seemed to feel guilty for what he had done, but that in no way made up for that fact that it had happened.

Zara is such a brilliant character, and I have loved reading her stories. In both Take It Back, and Truth Be Told, there are so many hurdles that she has to overcome in her cases, but she faces them head on and stands her ground, despite the fact that she has lots of personal problems to juggle with too. We learn a little more about Zara’s personal problems in Truth Be Told, and it makes her character so much more real, and you really sympathise with her. I really hope that we get more books that include Zara, because I am desperate to delve further in to her personal struggles.

THE PLOT TWIST ENDING! I could never have seen that coming, and it made the story so much more heartbreaking. I think this really tied the entire book up, and was very cleverly written. It shows that speaking up is very important, and can often be the difference between a very awkward, uncomfortable conversation, and a life damaging experience. It also highlights the importance of male mental health. We need to stop making men feel like they have to be strong, and hide their emotions, and we need to let them know that if they need help, no-one will consider them any less of a man for speaking up about it. Male mental health needs a lot more attention.

I didn’t think that Kia Abdullah could top Take It Back, but I personally think that she has done just that with Truth Be Told. This is one of those stories that will stick with you for a long time after you have finished it, and I can guarantee that you won’t stop thinking about it. I can’t wait to see what Kia Abdullah has to offer us in the future, because she may have just become one of my favourite authors.

A huge thank you to NetGalley, and HQ, for providing me with an ARC copy, in exchange for an honest review.

I give Truth Be Told a 5 star rating!