Member Reviews
Another great read from Lisa Jewel.l. Set around a podcast, with likeable main characters. It was fast paced and no too overly descriptive that made you want to skip or get bored all the way through, I couldn’t put it down once I’d started it. There are good plot twists to keep the reader interested. You think you know how it’s going to end but it’s not what you expect. The story is told through the eyes of the characters narrating a podcast, telling both of their stories from multiple angles that are realistic and believable. You feel you are getting to know Alix and Josie and can’t wait for the next podcast recording to know more. It is well written and I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I would definitely recommend it.
Another brilliant Lisa Jewell title. Twists, turns and great characters meant I struggled to put this one down!
Josie Fair and her much older husband, Walter, head out to a gastropub to celebrate her 45th birthday—a bit of a departure from their usual routine, but something different for the occasion. The quiet evening takes a surprising turn when a lively and stylish blonde woman, surrounded by a large group, enters the pub. This is Alix Summer, a podcaster celebrating her birthday with her husband, Nathan, and a big crowd. The stark contrast between Josie’s subdued celebration and Alix’s loud, vivacious energy immediately catches Josie’s attention. To Josie’s amazement, she realizes that Alix is also turning 45 today—they share the same birthday. When Alix steps away to the restroom, Josie decides to follow.
The story is told through alternating perspectives and the clever inclusion of a Netflix podcast/documentary series titled "Hi! I’m Your Birthday Twin." The dual narrative style is incredibly engaging, making the story feel fresh and dynamic under the guidance of this experienced author.
The book is nearly impossible to put down, with both Alix and Josie being intricately developed characters whose true natures unfold throughout the story. Readers’ opinions about them are likely to shift multiple times, thanks to a series of plot twists that are as shocking as they are compelling. One character, in particular, remains an enigma throughout, adding to the sense of mystery.
The excerpts from the fictional Netflix series add layers of suspense and intrigue, heightening the tension with each new reveal. The pacing is fast, and as the story escalates, it takes readers through a whirlwind of emotions—ranging from sympathy to shock—as uncomfortable truths and unsettling scenarios come to light. The dysfunction displayed within the plot reaches unimaginable heights, making the twists all the more thrilling.
The book races toward a gripping conclusion that feels authentic and realistic, even if it doesn’t tie everything up neatly—a reflection of how life often defies tidy endings.
In short, this is an outstanding read by a highly skilled author who knows exactly how to keep readers hooked from start to finish.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House UK, Cornerstone for the opportunity to read this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you NetGalley for approving me to read this book! A highly enjoyable read that is nice started I couldn’t put down.
I really wasn't sure about this book when I first started it, to the point where I nearly DNF’d it! I am so glad I didn't, it’s worth the payoff!
4.25 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
I’ve not read a thriller in ages and this made me think why on earth not?!?! I absolutely loved it!!
Podcaster Alix’s path crosses with Josie’s when they’re both out celebrating their 45th birthday.
Josie thinks she’d make an interesting podcast subject and persuades Alix to agree.
Alix slowly comes to realise that Josie has some seriously dark secrets buried deep and they’re coming out.
I devoured this!!!
My mind was going round and round in circles as I tried to figure out what on earth was going on.
If you’re a fan of a psychological mystery/thriller I definitely recommend.
I read some parts & listened to the audiobook when I was on the move (because I literally HAD to know what happened).
The audiobook is actor led which was new to me and I actually loved it - will be keeping my eye out for others with the similar style.
No spoilers but just one aspect I couldn’t get on board with so not quite a 5⭐️ but still loveddd!
I look foreward to this authors books each time and I’m never disappointed.
I love her writing, her progressive opening into subject matters that I’m soon as a reader, going to uncover.
I’ve read many reviews on Goodreads and they vary. I read them after I had read the book myself.
Me personally, I enjoyed the way it went and the ideas from the author when writing this the way it lead into a tense situation that with surprises could lead either two ways.
It was lively and kept my attention throughout.
The audio book is so well done, there’s tense music between some chapters which gave it an eerie atmosphere I thought.
Definitely going on my physical shelf along with her other books I own.
This will stay with me.
I fully adore Lisa Jewell's books and every single one blows me away. I was hooked from page 1, I couldn't put this book down. This book is full of twists and turns and when it all clicked for me my jaw literally dropped. I cannot get enough of these books!
I love Lisa Jewell books and this one was no exception. Creepy, twisty and it kept the reader in suspense. I loved the use of a podcast. I really enjoyed the ending .
I've loved all of Lisa Jewell's books and this didn't disappoint. None of This is True was a masterclass in storytelling. The rapidly developing and close friendship between Alix and Josie was done so well, as was the toxicity that slowly wove its way into their intense dynamic. Lisa has a gorgeous authorial voice and is brilliant at creating intriguing settings and atmosphere. All the secrets and lies kept me guessing, and the ending was so satisfying.
I can't wait to read her next book.
With thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the ARC.
With thanks to Netgalley and the author Lisa Jewell.
Lisa Jewell does it again with None of This is True, the book is fast-paced and keeps you on your toes till the last page. Can see why this author is a best seller.
A disturbingly shocking read that honestly had me captivated at every turn of the page!
I have always been a huge fan of Lisa Jewell, and she proves, once again, what a terrific writer she is. A fast-paced story; short, snappy chapters, and complex characters that have us questioning everything. I'm here for it all!
Josie was an instant red flag, and that carried throughout the book. As a reader, I was never sure what was gonna happen next, which made it thrilling, heart-stopping, and a read I found very hard to put down.
The story that unfolds, while it is compelling, it also unfolds a very horrific, distressing tale that is certainly not for the faint-hearted.
I didn't ever stop questioning what the truth was and what was lies. Riveting!
However, while I did really enjoy this book, there were a couple of story points that I felt weren't fully answered. So, I ended the book with just a few questions. If it wasn't for this, this one would have been a definite 5-star read.
Can't wait for Jewell's next!
Brilliant, absolutely flipping brilliant - thank you so much for the ARC and sorry I took so long to read.
I was in a bit of a reading slump, but am certainly out of it now.
Recommend - you bet!
I love this authors work, and this tale was a great read. Not my favorite by this author but a very entertaining story, full of twists and turns and keeps you guessing,
📚Book Review📚
None Of This Is True
Lisa Jewell
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Wow!! I'm actually just speechless!
Well, obviously not, but.....wow!
I have quite a few of this authors books now and honestly I don't even bother with the blurbs or the reviews anymore....I'm just straight in there as I know that I'm going to love it! And this was no exception!
As ever, I was instantly hooked in the storyline and I really loved this unique format with the clips of the podcasts and screen adaptation notes.
Not something I've seen before - but I think it worked so well at building the tension and creating that ominous vibe of knowing that something terrible is going to happen ....although to be fair, this is Lisa Jewell, so what more would we expect!?
The characters were a real mix for me.
The contrast in Josie and Alix's lifestyles had me fooled at first - not knowing who I was going to relate to more - but actually not allowing myself to trust either of them for quite a while.
I also wasn't keen on the men of the story either. Lots of flaws going around - which really added to the complexities of the plot.
As the storyline evolved, I expected that things would become much clearer - and some things did - but what with the title of the book and the unreliable narration - I was just waiting for the next twist!
The twists were expected - but not in their content!
I love a twisty plot and this was jam packed - but even so, I did not see that ending coming!
Even though I had suspicions the whole way through, these kept changing and so the ending still came as a real shock.
Absolutely brilliant!
I feel a bit silly saying that the writing style was on point - it's only as much as we know and love from Lisa by now - but I really think that this segue into something a little different worked perfectly and didn't lose any of the classic thrilling storytelling that had me on edge throughout.
💕Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for my ARC copy - this is my honest review 💕
i started reading this when i was in a reading slump hoping it would snapme out of it and wowzers, did it ever! It's twisty, relatable and addictive. I found it fast paced, it kept me guessing and was genuinely a stunning read.
Another great book by the fabulous Lisa Jewell. The blurb says to prepare to get hooked and it isn’t wrong!
The characters are well written and relatable, especially the relationship dynamic between Jodie and Nathan. This makes the story that bit more chilling as you can spot people in your own life within some of these characters. The author creates a real air of building tension and malice, which keeps you turning those pages. I loved the way the story was set out with excerpts from the podcast included and this came over really well in the Audible version of the book.
Highly recommend, an absolute page turner and another great read from this author.
A very twisty read that really keeps you guessing all the way through. Really enjoyed it and am never disappointed by the author. Can't wait to read more from her.
I absolutely loved this - I couldn't put it down! Totally addictive. I can't wait to read more Lisa Jewell books in the future. She is my go-to thriller author and I've never been disappointed :-)
Another amazing and unique read from Lisa Jewell. I loved this one although the girl who disappeared is still my favourite! Is highly recommend this book.