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It All Started With a Lie
When Pearl discovers a newspaper clipping showing a picture of her dad holding the baby he found abandoned outside a hospital, it sets off a chain of events of betrayal, obsession, murder. And it all started with a lie.
Perfect for fans of Cynthia Murphy and Holly Jackson.
Perfect for fans of Cynthia Murphy and Holly Jackson.
276 pages, Paperback
First published February 29, 2024
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308 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
February 16, 2024
3.5⭐️
⚠️ Expectations ⚠️
🫧Overdramatic Teenagers
🫧A murder mystery
🫧Discussions of teen pregnancy
🫧Discussions of the #MeToo movement
🫧Discussions of an inappropriate relationship (high school student & teacher)
🫧Discussions of stalking
🫧Difficult family dynamics
🫧Constant lying (mostly from the adults)
🫧A lot of secrets
📝 Premise: 📝
One night, Pearl is asked, by both her parents, to babysit her twin brothers (Paz & JoJo) and her best friend, Danny, comes over to help. Some time during the night, Danny suggests that everyone should play a game within the house. Pearl, Paz, and JoJo all agree. So, while Danny is preparing for the game, Pearl finds herself traveling to her father’s study. Once in there, Pearl then stumbles across something sticking out of a drawer. Instead of ignoring said item, she decides to pull it out and read it. What she finds is a newspaper article with a picture of her father and a story, or multiple stories, about him and his past. Instead of confronting her father, Pearl informs Danny about her findings and together they decide to search for answers. Soon Pearl and Danny find themselves teaming up with friends Leon and Samatha and discover that their small town is full of lies, deception, misinformation, and a whole lot of betrayal.
🗯️ My Thoughts: 🗯️
Oftentimes, I am hesitant to read books by authors from other countries because of how different some words are spelled. I find myself becoming self-conscious about my reading because I don’t know if I am pronouncing the word(s) correctly. But, the synopsis of this book had me curious, so as quickly as I could, I had to request it from NetGalley. And ooh how I was excited when my request was granted.
Even though this reads in the form of both middle school and the younger side of YA, the plot of this story was stupendous and amazing . It was face paced and EXTREMELY engaging. It had me on the edge of my seat. Honestly, this plot is what made this entire book worth reading. I found myself staying up until one o’clock in the morning to just read chapter after chapter. The plot was so well written that it was difficult for me to see any of the twists and turns coming. This is the type of book that murder mystery lovers will enjoy. No matter how hard said reader tries to figure out where this story is headed, they won’t see anything coming until the very last page. If not for my adult responsibilities during the day, I would have finished this book in one sitting.
As a HUGE lover for YA novels, I have had to learn to be very selective with it comes to the type characters I am willing to read about. I prefer my YA characters to be between the ages of 17-19. And one of my major concerns about any YA book is when an author fails to mention the main character(s) age(s) in the synopsis. Had I known that Pearl was 16 years old, I would have more than likely passed on this book. This is no shade toward the author. Just as a YA reader, I prefer my characters to show signs of maturity, gratitude, and growth. Unfortunately, the four main characters were either quite annoying, whiny, or just there. I felt like I was experiencing whiplash just by trying to keep up with the moods of these teenagers:
Pearl: the narrator of the story and the true definition of a drama queen. The amount of times she was either jumping to conclusions or regretting that she started looking into what she found in her father’s drawer became exhausting. I mean, people are allowed to change their minds but, not to the point where I want to give up on them after Chapter 5.
Danny: started out as a really great friend but, once Pearl told him about her discovery, it was like he didn’t know what to do or his role in her life anymore. One minute he is claiming that he and Pearl are going to figure things out together and she need not worry about anything. The next minute, he was running his mouth to both Samatha and Leon without Pearl’s permission. One minute he is known for being Pearl’s best friend and they tell each other everything. The next minute he is hanging with Samatha and having Samatha tell Pearl new information about him. I did not get it.
Samatha: Though Pearl called her blunt and outspoken, she was the main cause of my whiplash. Deciding to blatantly invite herself to join the group, she reads something over Danny’s shoulder and then has the audacity to ask questions, which Danny answers. Soon, I find her chastising Pearl for not seeking answers from her father. Samatha was either yelling at Pearl to go home and get the answers there or she inserted herself into the investigation. Ooh. And she was acting extremely thirsty for Danny.
Leon: Pearl’s crush and gatekeeper. Although he was Danny’s friend and the other person Danny ran his mouth to about Pearl’s discovery, Leon was just kind of there. I actually enjoyed him most of the time though he was always agreeable when it came to Pearl. I felt like I never really got to know him because he was either popping up randomly, silently standing in the background, or simply saying yes to whatever Pearl wanted. I wanted more of Leon and I am sad that I did not get that.
All in all, this book was really fun to read. It’s easy to follow along with, informative, and just pleasantly enjoyable.
Thank you NetGalley and Hashtag Press for granting my request for an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book in exchange for my honest and personal opinion!!!
Book Publication date: February 29, 2024
⚠️ Expectations ⚠️
🫧Overdramatic Teenagers
🫧A murder mystery
🫧Discussions of teen pregnancy
🫧Discussions of the #MeToo movement
🫧Discussions of an inappropriate relationship (high school student & teacher)
🫧Discussions of stalking
🫧Difficult family dynamics
🫧Constant lying (mostly from the adults)
🫧A lot of secrets
📝 Premise: 📝
One night, Pearl is asked, by both her parents, to babysit her twin brothers (Paz & JoJo) and her best friend, Danny, comes over to help. Some time during the night, Danny suggests that everyone should play a game within the house. Pearl, Paz, and JoJo all agree. So, while Danny is preparing for the game, Pearl finds herself traveling to her father’s study. Once in there, Pearl then stumbles across something sticking out of a drawer. Instead of ignoring said item, she decides to pull it out and read it. What she finds is a newspaper article with a picture of her father and a story, or multiple stories, about him and his past. Instead of confronting her father, Pearl informs Danny about her findings and together they decide to search for answers. Soon Pearl and Danny find themselves teaming up with friends Leon and Samatha and discover that their small town is full of lies, deception, misinformation, and a whole lot of betrayal.
🗯️ My Thoughts: 🗯️
Oftentimes, I am hesitant to read books by authors from other countries because of how different some words are spelled. I find myself becoming self-conscious about my reading because I don’t know if I am pronouncing the word(s) correctly. But, the synopsis of this book had me curious, so as quickly as I could, I had to request it from NetGalley. And ooh how I was excited when my request was granted.
Even though this reads in the form of both middle school and the younger side of YA, the plot of this story was stupendous and amazing . It was face paced and EXTREMELY engaging. It had me on the edge of my seat. Honestly, this plot is what made this entire book worth reading. I found myself staying up until one o’clock in the morning to just read chapter after chapter. The plot was so well written that it was difficult for me to see any of the twists and turns coming. This is the type of book that murder mystery lovers will enjoy. No matter how hard said reader tries to figure out where this story is headed, they won’t see anything coming until the very last page. If not for my adult responsibilities during the day, I would have finished this book in one sitting.
As a HUGE lover for YA novels, I have had to learn to be very selective with it comes to the type characters I am willing to read about. I prefer my YA characters to be between the ages of 17-19. And one of my major concerns about any YA book is when an author fails to mention the main character(s) age(s) in the synopsis. Had I known that Pearl was 16 years old, I would have more than likely passed on this book. This is no shade toward the author. Just as a YA reader, I prefer my characters to show signs of maturity, gratitude, and growth. Unfortunately, the four main characters were either quite annoying, whiny, or just there. I felt like I was experiencing whiplash just by trying to keep up with the moods of these teenagers:
Pearl: the narrator of the story and the true definition of a drama queen. The amount of times she was either jumping to conclusions or regretting that she started looking into what she found in her father’s drawer became exhausting. I mean, people are allowed to change their minds but, not to the point where I want to give up on them after Chapter 5.
Danny: started out as a really great friend but, once Pearl told him about her discovery, it was like he didn’t know what to do or his role in her life anymore. One minute he is claiming that he and Pearl are going to figure things out together and she need not worry about anything. The next minute, he was running his mouth to both Samatha and Leon without Pearl’s permission. One minute he is known for being Pearl’s best friend and they tell each other everything. The next minute he is hanging with Samatha and having Samatha tell Pearl new information about him. I did not get it.
Samatha: Though Pearl called her blunt and outspoken, she was the main cause of my whiplash. Deciding to blatantly invite herself to join the group, she reads something over Danny’s shoulder and then has the audacity to ask questions, which Danny answers. Soon, I find her chastising Pearl for not seeking answers from her father. Samatha was either yelling at Pearl to go home and get the answers there or she inserted herself into the investigation. Ooh. And she was acting extremely thirsty for Danny.
Leon: Pearl’s crush and gatekeeper. Although he was Danny’s friend and the other person Danny ran his mouth to about Pearl’s discovery, Leon was just kind of there. I actually enjoyed him most of the time though he was always agreeable when it came to Pearl. I felt like I never really got to know him because he was either popping up randomly, silently standing in the background, or simply saying yes to whatever Pearl wanted. I wanted more of Leon and I am sad that I did not get that.
All in all, this book was really fun to read. It’s easy to follow along with, informative, and just pleasantly enjoyable.
Thank you NetGalley and Hashtag Press for granting my request for an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book in exchange for my honest and personal opinion!!!
Book Publication date: February 29, 2024
February 24, 2024
"It All Started With A Lie" is a real page-turner, pulling reader into a story that dismantles Pearl's idyllic family image. The bombshell drops when she stumbles upon a newspaper clipping featuring her father cradling an abandoned baby, kicking off a rollercoaster of betrayal, obsession, and murder, all woven around a central lie.
The narrative is infused with tension, suspense, and unexpected plot twists that skillfully kept on the edge of my seat. Brown's talent for immersing readers in the story is evident, making it easy to forget that you are reading a book. The vivid imagery and engaging writing style contribute to an immersive experience, allowing readers to envision the scenes effortlessly.
What sets this book apart is Brown's ability to draw readers into the heart of the story, creating an irresistible, fast-paced narrative that is impossible to put down. The central mystery unfolds with multiple layers and intricate plot points, keeping the reader engaged from start to finish. The constant sense of urgency and the need to piece together the unfolding events contribute to the addictive nature of the story.
A noteworthy feature that caught my attention was the use of past dialogues through text messages. It's like eavesdropping on characters' thoughts from the past without giving away too much about their present selves. This clever touch adds an extra layer of intrigue, making the storytelling feel dynamic and fresh.
Denise Brown's "It All Started With A Lie" is a brilliantly crafted thriller that seamlessly blends an intense central mystery with a writing style that keeps you hooked. Loaded with suspense, unexpected turns, and inventive storytelling, it's a must-read for anyone who loves a good psychological drama.
The narrative is infused with tension, suspense, and unexpected plot twists that skillfully kept on the edge of my seat. Brown's talent for immersing readers in the story is evident, making it easy to forget that you are reading a book. The vivid imagery and engaging writing style contribute to an immersive experience, allowing readers to envision the scenes effortlessly.
What sets this book apart is Brown's ability to draw readers into the heart of the story, creating an irresistible, fast-paced narrative that is impossible to put down. The central mystery unfolds with multiple layers and intricate plot points, keeping the reader engaged from start to finish. The constant sense of urgency and the need to piece together the unfolding events contribute to the addictive nature of the story.
A noteworthy feature that caught my attention was the use of past dialogues through text messages. It's like eavesdropping on characters' thoughts from the past without giving away too much about their present selves. This clever touch adds an extra layer of intrigue, making the storytelling feel dynamic and fresh.
Denise Brown's "It All Started With A Lie" is a brilliantly crafted thriller that seamlessly blends an intense central mystery with a writing style that keeps you hooked. Loaded with suspense, unexpected turns, and inventive storytelling, it's a must-read for anyone who loves a good psychological drama.
April 24, 2024
It took some effort to get into this book—I knew it was a mystery but, at first, I struggled trying to understand what it was about. That the transition between the opening scene and the next chapter is a bit jarring, only added to my generalized confusion (I think the very British lingo didn’t help me either, but that one’s on me).
However, once I got into the story, things moved fast and I enjoyed this multilayered mystery enormously.
The book, both in style and subject matter is firmly anchored in its YA category. The overly dramatic teens, themes central to teen identity like pregnancy and romantic obsessions, not to mention wanting to be treated like an adult while still struggling with feeling unwanted by one’s family… it all plays perfectly into YA.
The story develops in two parallel timelines. A past one, involving two sisters, Bex and Boo, is presented as the text message exchange between them. There’s nothing else to explain this timeline, and yet we get enough—and cleverly delivered—information to start picking clues about the present time. I found this timeline intriguing but also a bit frustrating, mostly because I wanted to know more about the sisters. In general, the effect of that text-only narrative does add to the feeling of mystery that surrounds our main character, Pearl.
Pearl’s timeline represents the present time. Pearl has twin young brothers and a best friend and neighbor, Danny. Pearl has a mother that seems not to like Pearl very much but she also has a very supportive father. Or course, like in any good mystery, appearances are not to be believed.
When Pearl discovers a newspaper clip about her father founding an abandoned baby, she, like the overly dramatic teen she is, jumps to the conclusion that she is that baby and that her parents had been lying to her all her life.
And that’s how they—Pearl, Dany, Leon and Samantha—start investigating what happened in the days before that baby was found.
What follows is a twisty mystery involving lots more people that one would think are capable of keeping a secret. Yet, the story feels believable, and the ending is super satisfying.
Three-and-a-half stars. This one is a round-down to three stars, mostly because of how hard it was to get into it at the start.
The ARC I read was provided by NetGalley.
However, once I got into the story, things moved fast and I enjoyed this multilayered mystery enormously.
The book, both in style and subject matter is firmly anchored in its YA category. The overly dramatic teens, themes central to teen identity like pregnancy and romantic obsessions, not to mention wanting to be treated like an adult while still struggling with feeling unwanted by one’s family… it all plays perfectly into YA.
The story develops in two parallel timelines. A past one, involving two sisters, Bex and Boo, is presented as the text message exchange between them. There’s nothing else to explain this timeline, and yet we get enough—and cleverly delivered—information to start picking clues about the present time. I found this timeline intriguing but also a bit frustrating, mostly because I wanted to know more about the sisters. In general, the effect of that text-only narrative does add to the feeling of mystery that surrounds our main character, Pearl.
Pearl’s timeline represents the present time. Pearl has twin young brothers and a best friend and neighbor, Danny. Pearl has a mother that seems not to like Pearl very much but she also has a very supportive father. Or course, like in any good mystery, appearances are not to be believed.
When Pearl discovers a newspaper clip about her father founding an abandoned baby, she, like the overly dramatic teen she is, jumps to the conclusion that she is that baby and that her parents had been lying to her all her life.
And that’s how they—Pearl, Dany, Leon and Samantha—start investigating what happened in the days before that baby was found.
What follows is a twisty mystery involving lots more people that one would think are capable of keeping a secret. Yet, the story feels believable, and the ending is super satisfying.
Three-and-a-half stars. This one is a round-down to three stars, mostly because of how hard it was to get into it at the start.
The ARC I read was provided by NetGalley.
January 26, 2024
I'm not gonna lie; the opening did not grab me. However, I did get into the story once we got to know the present-day characters. This is a pretty quick read, and Pearl's character is very well-written. If you want to know how someone might feel if his/her parents might be lying, this is a great depiction of all of those emotions.
I do feel like the climax and reveals were a bit too sudden. We still don't have a lot of information three quarters of the way through, and then all of a sudden we're getting a one-two punch of HERE ARE ALL OF THE ANSWERS. I would've liked to see more of a gradual path leading up to the big climax.
With all that said, I enjoyed the novel and would read another book by this author.
3.75 stars, rounded up to 4.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hashtag Press for the advance copy in exchange for my honest feedback.
I do feel like the climax and reveals were a bit too sudden. We still don't have a lot of information three quarters of the way through, and then all of a sudden we're getting a one-two punch of HERE ARE ALL OF THE ANSWERS. I would've liked to see more of a gradual path leading up to the big climax.
With all that said, I enjoyed the novel and would read another book by this author.
3.75 stars, rounded up to 4.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hashtag Press for the advance copy in exchange for my honest feedback.
February 7, 2024
One thing about me is I love a good YA mystery, and this easily is one of my favorites as of late.
Pearl’s life takes a turn as she finds an old newspaper clipping showing a picture of her father holding a newborn baby he found outside a hospital.
I found myself completely immersed into the story from the very first chapter. I loved the twists and turns it took, every time I thought I figured it all out, something popped up to prove me just how wrong I was. It was truly impossible to put down, I was constantly on the edge of my seat trying to piece it all together.
I loved Pearl’s journey throughout the book; it’s probably because it wasn’t that long ago I was sixteen myself and I perfectly remember how easy it is for one small thing to completely unravel you and turn your entire world upside down. And then the one small thing turns into two, then three, and then it keeps going and going until you are drowning under small things that could be easily solved, but you are sixteen and everything is like the end of the world. And, at the end of the day, everything she knew was being taken away from her with every new piece of information, so why can’t a girl be a little dramatic!
Seeing the friendships form through the book made the characters so easy to root for; I just wanted the situation to be solved so they could be back to being just kids and enjoying their days.
I did feel like there was a lack of urgency throughout, even though it was fairly fast paced, but it didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the book nor made me want to put it down once. Truly an incredible read overall, and I had a great time with it.
Many thanks to LiterallyPR, Hashtag Press & Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Pearl’s life takes a turn as she finds an old newspaper clipping showing a picture of her father holding a newborn baby he found outside a hospital.
I found myself completely immersed into the story from the very first chapter. I loved the twists and turns it took, every time I thought I figured it all out, something popped up to prove me just how wrong I was. It was truly impossible to put down, I was constantly on the edge of my seat trying to piece it all together.
I loved Pearl’s journey throughout the book; it’s probably because it wasn’t that long ago I was sixteen myself and I perfectly remember how easy it is for one small thing to completely unravel you and turn your entire world upside down. And then the one small thing turns into two, then three, and then it keeps going and going until you are drowning under small things that could be easily solved, but you are sixteen and everything is like the end of the world. And, at the end of the day, everything she knew was being taken away from her with every new piece of information, so why can’t a girl be a little dramatic!
Seeing the friendships form through the book made the characters so easy to root for; I just wanted the situation to be solved so they could be back to being just kids and enjoying their days.
I did feel like there was a lack of urgency throughout, even though it was fairly fast paced, but it didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the book nor made me want to put it down once. Truly an incredible read overall, and I had a great time with it.
Many thanks to LiterallyPR, Hashtag Press & Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
February 23, 2024
This ARC was addicting from the first page! Took me a second to figure out the flipping between the past and present every chapter, but I really like how this was set up!
The present is between 4 high schoolers and their families who are trying to unravel a story/murder from 16 years ago. The past is shown as text messages between 2 people Bex and Boo. So you’re along for the ride through this twisty addicting story! I had a hard time remembering who was who because some of the names were so similar like Bex and Boo, Sarah and Samantha; that I kept getting characters confused which made the story a bit more difficult for me to figure out, this could also be a me thing, because I did read this over the course of a few days instead of finishing in 1-2 days like I normally do. So picking it back up it always took me a few pages to remember what was happening and who I was reading about and their roles.
If you want a suspense twisty book with a few layers this one is definitely for you! I really enjoyed this book and the ending was great even all the way up to the very last page!
The present is between 4 high schoolers and their families who are trying to unravel a story/murder from 16 years ago. The past is shown as text messages between 2 people Bex and Boo. So you’re along for the ride through this twisty addicting story! I had a hard time remembering who was who because some of the names were so similar like Bex and Boo, Sarah and Samantha; that I kept getting characters confused which made the story a bit more difficult for me to figure out, this could also be a me thing, because I did read this over the course of a few days instead of finishing in 1-2 days like I normally do. So picking it back up it always took me a few pages to remember what was happening and who I was reading about and their roles.
If you want a suspense twisty book with a few layers this one is definitely for you! I really enjoyed this book and the ending was great even all the way up to the very last page!
February 7, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Hashtag press for the advanced copy to read. All of these opinions are my own.
This book had a great story with a lot of mystery and intrigue and made me remember one of my favorite books from when I was much younger, The Face On The Milk Carton. The incident of Pearl finding a picture of her father holding a baby that he found abandoned at the same time that Pearl was born created a fast paced story of pearl trying to uncover her origin story and how it relates to the mysterious baby that was found. She tries to identify the baby while uncovering other buried secrets that her family and neighbors are keeping. In a story where Pearl has to question if she can trust the people she loves most, join her to unravel this mystery, which involves a secret love, hidden agendas, and disguised identities…
I really enjoyed the layers to this story and how Pearl and her group of friends had to come up with creative ways to unravel the mystery while overcoming obstacles along the way. I like how the author layered the past with the present so that there seemed to be an echo within the characters and situations. I particularly enjoyed the strong bond between Pearl and her dad and I was happy to the see the strength of the bond Pearl had with her mom over time. I liked how it showcased that some relationships are more complicated than others but that the bond is still as strong in the end.
While I thought this book had a really intriguing plot, I think it could have been executed a bit more smoothly.
For starters, I felt like this read like a middle school/high school diary. The internal dialogue and constant questioning of self felt very repetitive and like the writer desperately wanted the reader to be in the main characters shoes but instead it felt forced and shallow because a true emotional connection with the characters was never established.
Which leads me to my second point… I had zero ability to connect with any of the characters. They all annoyed me and I couldn’t care less about any of them and the main character just felt tiresome and exhausting. She jumped to conclusions so fast that my neck hurt trying to keep up. She would have an idea and the next page it became fact. And then sometimes those ideas became awkward. Like how she found out she MIGHT have an uncle ty but then like two pages later she AND HER FRIENDS are just fully referring to him as uncle ty. And then she just refers to other adults as though they are on the same level such as sarah and Dave. She referred to them so casually that I had to read back and remind myself who they were and why they were significant. And when I remembered that they were adults and parents of the main characters friend… I was shocked to remember the age difference and casually the character referred to them as their first names. SHE HAD JUST MET THEM
And that brings me to another point. The random confession. For years and years this crime has gone unsolved and then randomly some high school kids put together some loosely related clues And then with dramatically jumping to conclusions they potentially solve the crime but Sarah’s confession is just so over the top. Like why after all these years does she choose to just unload all of these intricate details, with most not having to be shared but she just unloads like she has this conscious, which would be fine if the author made us care about either sarah or pearl but she didn’t. If anything the confession feels awkward and displaced and made me feel more uncomfortable than like I was finding the solution to a mystery.
I guess my true singular complaint was that that there didn’t seem to be a clear audience for this story. The dialogue felt very juvenile and shallow but then adults were treated as equals to teens and f bombs were tossed around super casually. I couldn’t tell if the author was speaking more to younger or older teens and it made it confusing to me as a reader because the narrator felt unstable since she didn’t seem to remain a consistent age or maturity.
And this might be me being picky, but I feel like the author wanted the main character to come across as one of those adorably clumsy characters who just happen to get hurt in the oddest way but also it’s used to create a bond to the character and move along the story. In this situation it just felt distracting. Like oh my gosh something is happening that might be interesting better make the main character look adorably dumb and clumsy so we can play off these redundant tropes and do the whole damsel in distress bit but also use this to make something typically impossible and unbelievable happen but it’s ok because the main character was cute…
Overall, I enjoyed the story. I’m thankful for the advanced copy and glad I was able to read this fast paced mystery that seemed to unfold right before my eyes. While I think stronger character development would have made this overall story more successful, I enjoyed myself and would recommend this to anyone who likes family drama/mystery stories where the unexpected can happen and anyone could be guilty…
This book had a great story with a lot of mystery and intrigue and made me remember one of my favorite books from when I was much younger, The Face On The Milk Carton. The incident of Pearl finding a picture of her father holding a baby that he found abandoned at the same time that Pearl was born created a fast paced story of pearl trying to uncover her origin story and how it relates to the mysterious baby that was found. She tries to identify the baby while uncovering other buried secrets that her family and neighbors are keeping. In a story where Pearl has to question if she can trust the people she loves most, join her to unravel this mystery, which involves a secret love, hidden agendas, and disguised identities…
I really enjoyed the layers to this story and how Pearl and her group of friends had to come up with creative ways to unravel the mystery while overcoming obstacles along the way. I like how the author layered the past with the present so that there seemed to be an echo within the characters and situations. I particularly enjoyed the strong bond between Pearl and her dad and I was happy to the see the strength of the bond Pearl had with her mom over time. I liked how it showcased that some relationships are more complicated than others but that the bond is still as strong in the end.
While I thought this book had a really intriguing plot, I think it could have been executed a bit more smoothly.
For starters, I felt like this read like a middle school/high school diary. The internal dialogue and constant questioning of self felt very repetitive and like the writer desperately wanted the reader to be in the main characters shoes but instead it felt forced and shallow because a true emotional connection with the characters was never established.
Which leads me to my second point… I had zero ability to connect with any of the characters. They all annoyed me and I couldn’t care less about any of them and the main character just felt tiresome and exhausting. She jumped to conclusions so fast that my neck hurt trying to keep up. She would have an idea and the next page it became fact. And then sometimes those ideas became awkward. Like how she found out she MIGHT have an uncle ty but then like two pages later she AND HER FRIENDS are just fully referring to him as uncle ty. And then she just refers to other adults as though they are on the same level such as sarah and Dave. She referred to them so casually that I had to read back and remind myself who they were and why they were significant. And when I remembered that they were adults and parents of the main characters friend… I was shocked to remember the age difference and casually the character referred to them as their first names. SHE HAD JUST MET THEM
And that brings me to another point. The random confession. For years and years this crime has gone unsolved and then randomly some high school kids put together some loosely related clues And then with dramatically jumping to conclusions they potentially solve the crime but Sarah’s confession is just so over the top. Like why after all these years does she choose to just unload all of these intricate details, with most not having to be shared but she just unloads like she has this conscious, which would be fine if the author made us care about either sarah or pearl but she didn’t. If anything the confession feels awkward and displaced and made me feel more uncomfortable than like I was finding the solution to a mystery.
I guess my true singular complaint was that that there didn’t seem to be a clear audience for this story. The dialogue felt very juvenile and shallow but then adults were treated as equals to teens and f bombs were tossed around super casually. I couldn’t tell if the author was speaking more to younger or older teens and it made it confusing to me as a reader because the narrator felt unstable since she didn’t seem to remain a consistent age or maturity.
And this might be me being picky, but I feel like the author wanted the main character to come across as one of those adorably clumsy characters who just happen to get hurt in the oddest way but also it’s used to create a bond to the character and move along the story. In this situation it just felt distracting. Like oh my gosh something is happening that might be interesting better make the main character look adorably dumb and clumsy so we can play off these redundant tropes and do the whole damsel in distress bit but also use this to make something typically impossible and unbelievable happen but it’s ok because the main character was cute…
Overall, I enjoyed the story. I’m thankful for the advanced copy and glad I was able to read this fast paced mystery that seemed to unfold right before my eyes. While I think stronger character development would have made this overall story more successful, I enjoyed myself and would recommend this to anyone who likes family drama/mystery stories where the unexpected can happen and anyone could be guilty…
March 5, 2024
AD/PR - It All Started With A Lie is a YA thriller with a clever mystery at its centre that would be totally at home in an adult book. I read a few reviews on goodreads that said it takes a while to get into but I didn’t get that at all?? There’s a gripping prologue from timeline one in 2007 and then we jump straight into timeline two with Pearl’s present day POV. The scene is set and the inciting incident happens very quickly. It’s easily a one sitting read because it’s relatively short and totally addictive. Pearl stumbles upon a newspaper article from 2007 that makes her doubt her parentage. She investigates with the help of her friends and they uncover a string of seemingly unconnected events from around the time including a murder and a fire.
I loved that the 2007 timeline is told solely through short text engages between Bex and her sister Boo. It means the fast pace is maintained as we get a lot of info without being pulled from the main narrative for too long. The way all the different events were connected was so clever and it came together perfectly. I thought it was all solved until that last chapter threw in a total curveball 😱😱. GENIUS!! What a way to end a book leaving your reader’s jaw on the floor!! If you aren’t usually a YA reader but you enjoy thrillers then I’d fully recommend giving this a go because the main friend group are 17-18 anyway and a lot of the plot revolves around adults. It’s also just a cracking story!
I loved that the 2007 timeline is told solely through short text engages between Bex and her sister Boo. It means the fast pace is maintained as we get a lot of info without being pulled from the main narrative for too long. The way all the different events were connected was so clever and it came together perfectly. I thought it was all solved until that last chapter threw in a total curveball 😱😱. GENIUS!! What a way to end a book leaving your reader’s jaw on the floor!! If you aren’t usually a YA reader but you enjoy thrillers then I’d fully recommend giving this a go because the main friend group are 17-18 anyway and a lot of the plot revolves around adults. It’s also just a cracking story!
February 15, 2024
This book is absolutely brilliant!!! This is one of the best books that I read in 2024. I love books when they keep me in the dark, I can't guess what's gonna happen and how it's gonna end, and this book did those things to me. LOVED IT!
"It All Started With a Lie" is a story about Pearl who discovers a newspaper clipping showing a picture of her dad holding the baby he found abandoned outside a hospital. She thinks it is her so she investigates it with her three friends. But, instead of finding out who the baby is, she finds something else. A dark secret that her family buried for years.
I don't know how to explain it to you without spoiling it. What I can say is... just read it. You won't regret it, especially if you love murder mystery!
"It All Started With a Lie" is a story about Pearl who discovers a newspaper clipping showing a picture of her dad holding the baby he found abandoned outside a hospital. She thinks it is her so she investigates it with her three friends. But, instead of finding out who the baby is, she finds something else. A dark secret that her family buried for years.
I don't know how to explain it to you without spoiling it. What I can say is... just read it. You won't regret it, especially if you love murder mystery!
February 13, 2024
This book has such a good twist at the end!!!! I loved this book and it was another one that I couldn't stop reading. I love mystery books and this one was full of intrigue. Pearl finds a hidden newspaper clipping in her dad's desk drawer. The clipping is all about the time her dad found a baby outside of the hospital. Pearl has noticed that she is different from the rest of her family and immediately assumes the baby is her. This starts her off on a massive hunt for the truth, opening several cans of worms on the way. These mysteries are what kept me reading until late into the night. I was so curious to find out what was the truth and what was lies. I would totally recommend this book to anyone who loves a good mystery. Although once again I feel it is a book that teaches us that we need to talk to each other and not make up stories in our minds.
March 30, 2024
This is a an excellent well-crafted story that I really enjoyed! It's fast-paced and the twists are really well done! I would recommend this! Special Thank You to Hashtag Press, Denise Brown and NetGalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 12, 2024
This was so sweet and believable! I was really rooting for these kids. It truly felt like a coming of age novel.
Pearl doesn't feel like she belongs to her mom ever since her mom had her twin brothers, who are cute little manaces. When she finds a news clipping about her dad finding a baby she decides to investigate. She discovers a murder, a fire, and a whole conspiracy.
It was lovely.
Pearl doesn't feel like she belongs to her mom ever since her mom had her twin brothers, who are cute little manaces. When she finds a news clipping about her dad finding a baby she decides to investigate. She discovers a murder, a fire, and a whole conspiracy.
It was lovely.
April 24, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Oh wow, what a mess. I don’t think I’ve read a thriller that was less thrilling. Somehow, it still fell flat, even with all the attempted curveballs and misdirects. In the final few chapters, we finally get the reveal with not one but two plot twists, one of which was completely predictable and the other out of the left fucking field. At the end of the day, the story could’ve been saved with decent narration, but we didn’t really get that either.
Also, was I the only one who thought Pearl was in love with Danny?
Oh wow, what a mess. I don’t think I’ve read a thriller that was less thrilling. Somehow, it still fell flat, even with all the attempted curveballs and misdirects. In the final few chapters, we finally get the reveal with not one but two plot twists, one of which was completely predictable and the other out of the left fucking field. At the end of the day, the story could’ve been saved with decent narration, but we didn’t really get that either.
Also, was I the only one who thought Pearl was in love with Danny?
March 4, 2024
This is a mystery set in England that bounces between seventeen years ago when everything initially happened and present day, where Pearl and her friends stumble upon some interesting information.
It's a quick read but the mystery is a bit slow to unfold and I never got fully invested into what happened. Mostly because it didn't seem to matter that much except for Ty's involvement. The British lingo sometimes threw me off as well, but that's not a huge deal.
The story had a few interesting turns and wrapped up fairly well all in all. Not a bad story to binge through.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All opinions are my own. Thank you to Hashtag Press and NetGalley for the copy.
It's a quick read but the mystery is a bit slow to unfold and I never got fully invested into what happened. Mostly because it didn't seem to matter that much except for Ty's involvement. The British lingo sometimes threw me off as well, but that's not a huge deal.
The story had a few interesting turns and wrapped up fairly well all in all. Not a bad story to binge through.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All opinions are my own. Thank you to Hashtag Press and NetGalley for the copy.
February 11, 2024
This was a satisfying teen mystery/drama that was easy to read and get involved with. I liked that the story kept its focus on the mystery and didn't get bogged down on the introduction of a new friend to the friendship group. I expected this to drag out for longer but it was dealt with fairly quickly yet realistically. The characters were easy to like and the chapters dealing with the past didn't give too much away. There was just enough to get the reader thinking. Some nice little twists at the end although I feel there was a bit of a plot hole in the final action scene.
I received this arc from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
I received this arc from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
January 26, 2024
Well paced book that went from past to present time. I was a little lost at first with the dialogue from the past to present, but was able to catch on quickly. I liked that there were tiny clues about what the big secret was without actually giving away too much. I would recommend this book for those that like a fast paced suspense filled story.
February 15, 2024
I received this book as an ARC and honestly I loved it! I’m a big fan of a good girl’s guide to murder and this was a similar vibe! The story was written well and still had a good plot twist. Especially the end I never expected! I completely thought of something else there. Denise did absolutely amazing with this book and I will definitely recommend it!
February 12, 2024
"It All Started with a Lie" is a gripping tale about the devastating implications of a single falsehood. The author expertly constructs a complicated web of intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. As Pearl goes on a mission to discover the truth about her father's secret, the story takes unexpected turns, resulting in surprising disclosures. With its captivating plot, well-drawn characters, and thought-provoking ideas, this book is a must-read for fans of suspenseful and twist-filled stories.rhis has to be an amazing mystery thriller book especially if your in a book slump and don't know what to read.
Thank you netgalley and PR Ltd
Thank you netgalley and PR Ltd
February 11, 2024
I could not put this book down. It starts with Pearl finding old newspaper clippings in her father’s study and leads to her and her friends looking into a murder, a mystery girl and an abandoned baby. I loved the story, the friendships and the secrets. I didn’t see the ending coming but it was absolutely perfect! Looking forward to reading more from this author
May 3, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Literally PR Ltd!
This book is extremely clever, and once I worked out the back and forth of the two different timelines, it became a not to be put down, very quick read. Pearl is just trying to find out the answers to several mysteries in her life, and although she really has to work at it, questions are answered by the time the crazy, exciting ending comes around!
This book is extremely clever, and once I worked out the back and forth of the two different timelines, it became a not to be put down, very quick read. Pearl is just trying to find out the answers to several mysteries in her life, and although she really has to work at it, questions are answered by the time the crazy, exciting ending comes around!
February 18, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC.
Perhaps if this had been set in the 1980s it may have been believable, but in 2007 when we had DNA testing, CCTV, phone tracking etc? It didn't work for me, and the writing style felt very surface level.
Perhaps if this had been set in the 1980s it may have been believable, but in 2007 when we had DNA testing, CCTV, phone tracking etc? It didn't work for me, and the writing style felt very surface level.
January 23, 2024
Thank you Netgalley and Hashtag Press for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
In "It All Started With a Lie" by Denise Brown, Pearl's perception of her seemingly perfect family is shattered when she stumbles upon a newspaper clipping featuring her father holding a baby abandoned outside a hospital. This discovery triggers a gripping tale of betrayal, obsession, and murder, setting the stage for a story that unravels around a central lie.
From the very first page, I found myself captivated by the intricacies of "It All Started With a Lie." Pearl, initially thinking her family didn’t have any secrets, is thrust into a world of deception, of secrets that adults keep because they think they’re protecting their children. Brown skillfully draws you into the heart of the story, creating an edge-of-your-seat experience that is impossible to put down. There were so many layers to the central mystery, so many different plot points that kept me engaged throughout the book. This was a very fast-paced book, and I read this book in only a few hours as I just had to know what was going to happen next.
The story is infused with tension, suspense, and unexpected plot twists that kept me wanting more. Denis Brown has a talent for immersing readers in the story, making them forget they are reading a book. The vivid imagery and engaging writing style made it easy to envision the scenes.
Pearl's journey of self-discovery and the unveiling of family secrets resonate with authenticity. Brown creates a complex web of relationships, leaving you emotionally invested in the characters' fates. I will say that I wanted more development of the characters, especially Pearl and Samantha. About halfway through the book when one certain truth is revealed, I couldn’t figure out the exact motivations of the characters and why they were so invested in the mystery. Learning more about the character motivations would have strengthened this aspect of the writing. And even though the book was fast-paced, there was also a lack of tension and urgency, which, again, I think the character motivations would have helped. Overall though, I did enjoy the mystery aspect, and I like how the ending wrapped up all the loose ends.
All in all, "It All Started With a Lie" is a compelling story that combines elements of mystery, family dynamics, and suspense. Brown’s ability to craft a narrative that keeps you guessing makes this book a must-read for those who enjoy immersive storytelling, especially for those who are entertained by stories focusing on obsession and the consequences of hidden truths.
In "It All Started With a Lie" by Denise Brown, Pearl's perception of her seemingly perfect family is shattered when she stumbles upon a newspaper clipping featuring her father holding a baby abandoned outside a hospital. This discovery triggers a gripping tale of betrayal, obsession, and murder, setting the stage for a story that unravels around a central lie.
From the very first page, I found myself captivated by the intricacies of "It All Started With a Lie." Pearl, initially thinking her family didn’t have any secrets, is thrust into a world of deception, of secrets that adults keep because they think they’re protecting their children. Brown skillfully draws you into the heart of the story, creating an edge-of-your-seat experience that is impossible to put down. There were so many layers to the central mystery, so many different plot points that kept me engaged throughout the book. This was a very fast-paced book, and I read this book in only a few hours as I just had to know what was going to happen next.
The story is infused with tension, suspense, and unexpected plot twists that kept me wanting more. Denis Brown has a talent for immersing readers in the story, making them forget they are reading a book. The vivid imagery and engaging writing style made it easy to envision the scenes.
Pearl's journey of self-discovery and the unveiling of family secrets resonate with authenticity. Brown creates a complex web of relationships, leaving you emotionally invested in the characters' fates. I will say that I wanted more development of the characters, especially Pearl and Samantha. About halfway through the book when one certain truth is revealed, I couldn’t figure out the exact motivations of the characters and why they were so invested in the mystery. Learning more about the character motivations would have strengthened this aspect of the writing. And even though the book was fast-paced, there was also a lack of tension and urgency, which, again, I think the character motivations would have helped. Overall though, I did enjoy the mystery aspect, and I like how the ending wrapped up all the loose ends.
All in all, "It All Started With a Lie" is a compelling story that combines elements of mystery, family dynamics, and suspense. Brown’s ability to craft a narrative that keeps you guessing makes this book a must-read for those who enjoy immersive storytelling, especially for those who are entertained by stories focusing on obsession and the consequences of hidden truths.
February 29, 2024
˗ˋˏ ♡Thank you Denise Brown and NetGalley♡ ˎˊ˗
Wow wow wow wow, honestly loved this book. It was really easy to reaad the writing style made this possible, it is nothing overally descriptive. It was also a real page turner, I could not put it down, well expect for when I was in school. However, when I was reading it I could not put it down, I was scrooling and turning to the next page just waiting for what was next and wondering what would happen. I was hooked from the first page, I knew that this sort of plot would not be one of the most orginal but I will always eat it up. However, I did feel that the climax and the real mystery being founf out came very qucikly and sudden towards the end.
Pearl was a good narrator, but sometimes it did feelt that she was being dramtic over things and when she kept regretting looking into the the whole mystery it was a bit annoying. But I do like her overall. Danny, I liked him at the start, but I did not like how he just started to blabber his big mouth about Pearl's problems to Samatha & Leon. Like it was not his place to speak on it at all, and then he started being distant with Pearl and not telling her things, even though he said he would be with her every step of the way, but overall he was alright. Samatha, I did not enjoy her character at the start, I felt annoyed when she just came and started asking questions out of nowhere know it problay wasn't any of her business, and it also felt that she was only in the group to get with Danny. In the end I did like her character as she did help with the case and I do feel bad for her due to the end of the book. Lastly, Leon at first I did not like him that much but I do not even know why, however I grew to really like him, he really did care for Pearl and he was also very helpful.
The way the story was structured was very nice, I enjoyed gaining the text messages between Bex and Boo in the past and then the present moment. It really kept you thinking about what exactly was the truth. And the truth was very suprising but also made sense, when it was found out all the things discussed in the past made sense, it all fell into place.
Overall, great book! 4.25 stars
Wow wow wow wow, honestly loved this book. It was really easy to reaad the writing style made this possible, it is nothing overally descriptive. It was also a real page turner, I could not put it down, well expect for when I was in school. However, when I was reading it I could not put it down, I was scrooling and turning to the next page just waiting for what was next and wondering what would happen. I was hooked from the first page, I knew that this sort of plot would not be one of the most orginal but I will always eat it up. However, I did feel that the climax and the real mystery being founf out came very qucikly and sudden towards the end.
Pearl was a good narrator, but sometimes it did feelt that she was being dramtic over things and when she kept regretting looking into the the whole mystery it was a bit annoying. But I do like her overall. Danny, I liked him at the start, but I did not like how he just started to blabber his big mouth about Pearl's problems to Samatha & Leon. Like it was not his place to speak on it at all, and then he started being distant with Pearl and not telling her things, even though he said he would be with her every step of the way, but overall he was alright. Samatha, I did not enjoy her character at the start, I felt annoyed when she just came and started asking questions out of nowhere know it problay wasn't any of her business, and it also felt that she was only in the group to get with Danny. In the end I did like her character as she did help with the case and I do feel bad for her due to the end of the book. Lastly, Leon at first I did not like him that much but I do not even know why, however I grew to really like him, he really did care for Pearl and he was also very helpful.
The way the story was structured was very nice, I enjoyed gaining the text messages between Bex and Boo in the past and then the present moment. It really kept you thinking about what exactly was the truth. And the truth was very suprising but also made sense, when it was found out all the things discussed in the past made sense, it all fell into place.
Overall, great book! 4.25 stars
March 3, 2024
It all Started with a Lie is a stunning novel from Denise Brown that looks at secrets held deep within families and the tragedy this can cause when Pearl accidently comes across a pile of old newspaper clippings hidden within her father’s desk draw.
She comes to the conclusion that the stories are about her, the baby abandoned outside of the Hospital. The year is right, the details referred to in the story fit, according to her. She convinces her friend Danny to help her try and discover the real story behind the articles and in doing so they set off a train of events that no one in their quiet neighbour could ever have foreseen.
Murder has been committed and the closer the two friends get to finding out what really did happen the danger increases, ending in a horrific and catastrophic fashion.
Written for the YA age range it is a story that ranges across many generations, as it deals with unwanted and unexpected pregnancy, hiding the truth through fear, failure of family to support their children and the mental anguish caused when truths are hidden and kept hidden.
Fast paced in places, and yet heavy going in others, the story unfolds in layers, the text messages from long ago adding another layer of intrigue, as it becomes important to try and discover which of the characters sent the text messages and who they were sent to. Are they still a part of the community or not?
The final chapters tend to be a little rushed, as so much information carefully hidden within the body of the story is woven into a stunning conclusion. One of the main points within the story is why it is that Pearl, who is very close to her father, does not feel she can ask him about the newspaper articles.
None the less It All Started with a Lie is a story that captivates from the first page, is filled with twists and turns, frustration oozing from the pages, sorrow permeating the narrative, all of which has been carefully and skilfully portrayed in a story woven around family dynamics.
She comes to the conclusion that the stories are about her, the baby abandoned outside of the Hospital. The year is right, the details referred to in the story fit, according to her. She convinces her friend Danny to help her try and discover the real story behind the articles and in doing so they set off a train of events that no one in their quiet neighbour could ever have foreseen.
Murder has been committed and the closer the two friends get to finding out what really did happen the danger increases, ending in a horrific and catastrophic fashion.
Written for the YA age range it is a story that ranges across many generations, as it deals with unwanted and unexpected pregnancy, hiding the truth through fear, failure of family to support their children and the mental anguish caused when truths are hidden and kept hidden.
Fast paced in places, and yet heavy going in others, the story unfolds in layers, the text messages from long ago adding another layer of intrigue, as it becomes important to try and discover which of the characters sent the text messages and who they were sent to. Are they still a part of the community or not?
The final chapters tend to be a little rushed, as so much information carefully hidden within the body of the story is woven into a stunning conclusion. One of the main points within the story is why it is that Pearl, who is very close to her father, does not feel she can ask him about the newspaper articles.
None the less It All Started with a Lie is a story that captivates from the first page, is filled with twists and turns, frustration oozing from the pages, sorrow permeating the narrative, all of which has been carefully and skilfully portrayed in a story woven around family dynamics.
February 25, 2024
In Denise Brown's captivating novel, "It All Started With a Lie," the protagonist, Pearl, stumbles upon a newspaper clipping that unravels a web of betrayal, obsession, and murder. As Pearl delves deeper into the mystery surrounding her father's past, she uncovers a series of shocking truths that challenge her perception of reality. The story takes readers on a thrilling journey filled with twists and turns, leaving them on the edge of their seats. Brown's skillful storytelling keeps readers engaged until the very last page. The characters are well-developed and relatable, making their struggles and triumphs feel genuine. One of the standout aspects of the novel is Brown's exploration of the complexities of family relationships. Pearl's quest to uncover the truth about her father's past sheds light on the lengths people will go to protect those they love—even if it means resorting to lies and deception. The novel delves into themes of loyalty, forgiveness, and the consequences of one's actions. Brown's writing is crisp and engaging, drawing readers into the narrative from the very beginning. She paints a vivid picture of the setting and brings the characters to life through their interactions and emotions. The pacing of the novel is well-paced, with a steady build-up of suspense that keeps readers turning the pages. Overall, "It All Started With a Lie" is a captivating and thought-provoking read that explores the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of deception. Brown's skillful storytelling and well-developed characters make this novel a must-read for fans of mystery and suspense.
April 21, 2024
Pearl has always felt like the odd one out in her family, she is close to her Dad but her Mum is a different story. One night while playing hide and seek, Pearl discovers some newspaper clippings of her father finding a baby. It also happens to be around the same time she was born. Is her parents, not her real parents? Pearl along with her best friend Danny and a couple of others including Samantha decide to do some research about the unknown baby that was left behind. During the same month, they will discover that not only the murder of a teacher, a house caught fire, a teacher got fired as part of a student scandal, several students were pregnant and a male student was sentenced to prison for the murder. It was a time that the adults were trying to forget in the small town and it seems like the scandals are revolving around Pearl's family. What happened that summer and is Pearl ready to open a box of worms with her family as secrets are revealed and lies are confronted which can have deadly consequences? The book also has a past/present timeline which connects with what happened back then to now and how everyone is tied together. I do have to say when the ending was revealed and the true identity of the baby was revealed, I was like OMG. I did like the added twist of the final chapter. If you love YA Thrillers, Family secrets, and hidden truths - then It All Started With A Lie by Denise Brown is the read for you and fans of Karen M. McManus and Diana Urban will enjoy it.
February 29, 2024
It All Started With A Lie is a young adult mystery intricately woven between two distinct time periods: Then, set in 2007, and Now, unfolding in the present day. The parts from 2007 are written in the form of text messages between sisters Bex and Boo. The present day features sixteen-year-old Pearl who has discovered a newspaper clipping featuring her father cradling an abandoned baby from her birth year, fuelling a suspicion that she is adopted.
Accompanied by her neighbour and best friend Danny, Pearl sets out to see if she can uncover the truth, without asking her family directly.
The book is an easy read, it flows naturally and effortlessly, and from the first chapter, I was hooked. However, as an adult, I couldn’t help wondering why Pearl couldn’t just ask her parents the truth but then, if she had, it would have made for a very short book!
At the beginning, I was a little confused as to how the two time periods were linked but the more I read the more I put two and two together, or did I? There are a few twists and turns in the book so not all my theories were right and some astonished me completely.
Overall, It All Started with A Lie is a fast-paced novel with a great cast of characters and a superb plot. If you love YA mystery books grab yourself a copy of this suspenseful and intriguing story.
Accompanied by her neighbour and best friend Danny, Pearl sets out to see if she can uncover the truth, without asking her family directly.
The book is an easy read, it flows naturally and effortlessly, and from the first chapter, I was hooked. However, as an adult, I couldn’t help wondering why Pearl couldn’t just ask her parents the truth but then, if she had, it would have made for a very short book!
At the beginning, I was a little confused as to how the two time periods were linked but the more I read the more I put two and two together, or did I? There are a few twists and turns in the book so not all my theories were right and some astonished me completely.
Overall, It All Started with A Lie is a fast-paced novel with a great cast of characters and a superb plot. If you love YA mystery books grab yourself a copy of this suspenseful and intriguing story.
March 1, 2024
The book begins with some text messages in 2007 between two sisters Bex and Boo, describing an incident with a man.
It then jumps to the present day, where you are introduced to a teen called Pearl, who seems to live a normal teenage life, with her mum, dad and twin brother, but her world gets more complicated when she stumbles across an old newspaper clipping of her dad holding an abandoned baby.
Like most teenagers i’ve encountered her logic swirls out of control and instead of just asking her dad about it, she starts to imagine all sorts, and enlists the help of her three friends Danny, Leon and Sammie to solve the mystery.
But like many things in life, it creates a domino effect, if she hadn’t found that newspaper clipping, she may not have been suspicious of future conversations and peoples reactions to situations, which may not have lead her to other revelations.
Throughout the book there are flashbacks to 2007 conversations between the two sisters, and it starts to entwine into the present day occurrences.
Its quite an easy read, but I really didn’t want to put it down, as I wanted to know what happened! There were quite a few twists and turns and its difficult to give you any more information without starting to give too much away!
It’s a great book for a teenager that would definitely encourage them to pick up a book.
It then jumps to the present day, where you are introduced to a teen called Pearl, who seems to live a normal teenage life, with her mum, dad and twin brother, but her world gets more complicated when she stumbles across an old newspaper clipping of her dad holding an abandoned baby.
Like most teenagers i’ve encountered her logic swirls out of control and instead of just asking her dad about it, she starts to imagine all sorts, and enlists the help of her three friends Danny, Leon and Sammie to solve the mystery.
But like many things in life, it creates a domino effect, if she hadn’t found that newspaper clipping, she may not have been suspicious of future conversations and peoples reactions to situations, which may not have lead her to other revelations.
Throughout the book there are flashbacks to 2007 conversations between the two sisters, and it starts to entwine into the present day occurrences.
Its quite an easy read, but I really didn’t want to put it down, as I wanted to know what happened! There were quite a few twists and turns and its difficult to give you any more information without starting to give too much away!
It’s a great book for a teenager that would definitely encourage them to pick up a book.
January 29, 2024
While it did take me awhile to get invested in this book, it does have a pretty unique concept. The premise of the story is that the main character, Pearl, finds a newspaper clipping about her father finding a baby outside of a hospital right around the time she was born, prompting her and her friends to launch an investigation into the events of their town around that time. Additionally, it has an interesting dual-timeline, alternating between present day and 2007, leaving readers to try to piece together the connection as the story progresses.
I will say I personally didn't quite connect with this story, it took about 30% of the book for my interest to build up, and it dropped a few times throughout; however, I would consider that more a me problem than a problem with the book. It was also difficult for me to keep up with past events as they were revealed, especially at the ending, although I've not found any other reviews with this problem.
Trigger Warnings for this book as I've not seen them mentioned anywhere: Implied SA of a minor, several mentions and implications of pedophilia, and one instance of one teenager forcibly kissing another teenager.
*I received an early copy of this book through NetGalley
I will say I personally didn't quite connect with this story, it took about 30% of the book for my interest to build up, and it dropped a few times throughout; however, I would consider that more a me problem than a problem with the book. It was also difficult for me to keep up with past events as they were revealed, especially at the ending, although I've not found any other reviews with this problem.
Trigger Warnings for this book as I've not seen them mentioned anywhere: Implied SA of a minor, several mentions and implications of pedophilia, and one instance of one teenager forcibly kissing another teenager.
*I received an early copy of this book through NetGalley
February 28, 2024
When Pearl discovers a newspaper clipping showing a picture of her dad holding the baby he found abandoned outside a hospital, it sets off a chain of events of betrayal, obsession, murder. And it all started with a lie.
Wow! I really didn't think I would be as engrossed within this book as I was! The pacing and characterisation within this book is fantastic and I found myself flicking through the pages to know more about what was going to happen. I was constantly trying to work out what was happening and didn't actually figure it out myself as there were a lot of shady characters I was constantly second guessing. A true immersive page turner!
The ending was really fast paced and at first thought I wasn't fully satisfied but I think the epilogue tied everything up I needed to know. I have deducted a star just because I think it took a bit to get into and found the contrast of 2007 with present day difficult to get into at first but it ended up working really well. I agree that fans of Holly Jackson would enjoy this.
All in all, a fast-paced YA thriller filled with suspense, secrets and suspicion!!
This book comes out tomorrow (29th Feb 2024) and I would recommend you all pick it up immediately!!! Thankyou to Denise Brown & LiterallyPR for the gifted proof copy.
Wow! I really didn't think I would be as engrossed within this book as I was! The pacing and characterisation within this book is fantastic and I found myself flicking through the pages to know more about what was going to happen. I was constantly trying to work out what was happening and didn't actually figure it out myself as there were a lot of shady characters I was constantly second guessing. A true immersive page turner!
The ending was really fast paced and at first thought I wasn't fully satisfied but I think the epilogue tied everything up I needed to know. I have deducted a star just because I think it took a bit to get into and found the contrast of 2007 with present day difficult to get into at first but it ended up working really well. I agree that fans of Holly Jackson would enjoy this.
All in all, a fast-paced YA thriller filled with suspense, secrets and suspicion!!
This book comes out tomorrow (29th Feb 2024) and I would recommend you all pick it up immediately!!! Thankyou to Denise Brown & LiterallyPR for the gifted proof copy.
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