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Only One Lie
From the author of The Pilot’s Daughter and The Final Hunt comes a thrilling, suspense-driven mystery set in World War II-era Seattle.
Seattle, 1942. News of the war is interrupted by the kidnapping of young Max Ellis, heir to the wealthiest banking family on the west coast. When the boy’s parents comply with the ransom demands, the kidnapper is found dead and their son remains missing. For newlywed Vera Chandler, the story hits close to home—her husband Hugh is just six months into his job as the Ellis’s private pilot.
Within days, Hugh is deployed to the Pacific as a navy pilot, while Vera’s flying instructor and best friend joins the Women’s Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron. Left alone, her parents’ words haunt her: If you really wanted to serve your country, you wouldn’t have dropped out of nursing school.
In an exchange for a favor that Vera can’t refuse, she is pulled into the Ellis family affairs by the desperate mother of the missing child. The Ellis family, Vera learns firsthand, is as dangerous as they are rich. Soon, she is in a race to save the child’s life, and it could be the only way she can save her own.
Seattle, 1942. News of the war is interrupted by the kidnapping of young Max Ellis, heir to the wealthiest banking family on the west coast. When the boy’s parents comply with the ransom demands, the kidnapper is found dead and their son remains missing. For newlywed Vera Chandler, the story hits close to home—her husband Hugh is just six months into his job as the Ellis’s private pilot.
Within days, Hugh is deployed to the Pacific as a navy pilot, while Vera’s flying instructor and best friend joins the Women’s Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron. Left alone, her parents’ words haunt her: If you really wanted to serve your country, you wouldn’t have dropped out of nursing school.
In an exchange for a favor that Vera can’t refuse, she is pulled into the Ellis family affairs by the desperate mother of the missing child. The Ellis family, Vera learns firsthand, is as dangerous as they are rich. Soon, she is in a race to save the child’s life, and it could be the only way she can save her own.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 27, 2022
944 people are currently reading
8287 people want to read
About the author
Audrey J. Cole
21 books1,127 followersAudrey J. Cole is a USA TODAY bestselling thriller author. She resides in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two children. Before writing full time, she worked as a neonatal intensive care nurse for eleven years. She’s also a pilot's daughter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
June 2, 2025
Only One Lie by Audrey J. Cole
Narrated by Krys Janae and Kimberly Austin
I'm a big fan of historical fiction and mystery/thrillers so this story sounded like it would have a lot of things going for it in my eyes. Vera Chandler, wife of a military pilot, is a pilot herself, and when her husband is called back into action she is able to take over his job as a private pilot to the wealthy Ellis family. Sadly Vera comes into the Ellis family's lives just as young Max Ellis has been kidnapped. There you have it, a flying job for a young woman who hopes to someday join the Women’s Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron and a mystery to be solved of a child who has been kidnapped.
In reality, the story puts women's advances into the world of men, when it comes to aiding the war effort by ferrying planes, on the back seat to the Ellis family kidnapping plot. Which is fine because I enjoy mysteries. But in this case, there are so many "you have got to be kidding me!" moments that the story lost some of its appeal for me. Vera does so many things that I could not believe she would do and those things just pile on, one after another. At one point she could give a stunt driver a run for his money. So many of the choices Vera makes boggle my mind and sometimes she seems to be running mighty low on common sense. I'd love to list Vera's offences but that would be telling so you'll have to read/listen to the story and see what you think of her antics. Yes, she is fighting against evil but I don't think this is the way you are supposed to do it and I don't think you'd get away with doing it this way. I had to swallow the story with a huge grain of salt. Bring a salt shaker.
I do look forward to seeing what others think of the story. I tend to like things to be a bit more realistic. The narrators do a good job with the story although I did prefer Vera's narrator over the narrator of Max's mom since Max's mom seemed to spend a large part of her story speaking in a whispery manner.
Pub December 27th 2022
Thank you to OrangeSky Audio and NetGalley for this ARC.
Narrated by Krys Janae and Kimberly Austin
I'm a big fan of historical fiction and mystery/thrillers so this story sounded like it would have a lot of things going for it in my eyes. Vera Chandler, wife of a military pilot, is a pilot herself, and when her husband is called back into action she is able to take over his job as a private pilot to the wealthy Ellis family. Sadly Vera comes into the Ellis family's lives just as young Max Ellis has been kidnapped. There you have it, a flying job for a young woman who hopes to someday join the Women’s Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron and a mystery to be solved of a child who has been kidnapped.
In reality, the story puts women's advances into the world of men, when it comes to aiding the war effort by ferrying planes, on the back seat to the Ellis family kidnapping plot. Which is fine because I enjoy mysteries. But in this case, there are so many "you have got to be kidding me!" moments that the story lost some of its appeal for me. Vera does so many things that I could not believe she would do and those things just pile on, one after another. At one point she could give a stunt driver a run for his money. So many of the choices Vera makes boggle my mind and sometimes she seems to be running mighty low on common sense. I'd love to list Vera's offences but that would be telling so you'll have to read/listen to the story and see what you think of her antics. Yes, she is fighting against evil but I don't think this is the way you are supposed to do it and I don't think you'd get away with doing it this way. I had to swallow the story with a huge grain of salt. Bring a salt shaker.
I do look forward to seeing what others think of the story. I tend to like things to be a bit more realistic. The narrators do a good job with the story although I did prefer Vera's narrator over the narrator of Max's mom since Max's mom seemed to spend a large part of her story speaking in a whispery manner.
Pub December 27th 2022
Thank you to OrangeSky Audio and NetGalley for this ARC.
December 29, 2022
Only One Lie by Audrey J. Cole was a historical fiction mystery thriller. It was fast paced and written well. The characters were captivating and it was well plotted. Only One Lie took place in Seattle during the years of World War II. There were twists and turns throughout the book. I was captivated from the start and felt compelled to keep reading long into the night.
Vera and Hugh Chandler were happily married and living in Seattle around the time Pearl Harbor was attacked by the Japanese. Hugh was a pilot serving in the Navy. He was called for active duty as a pilot shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor occurred. Prior to being called up, Hugh had worked for the Ellis family as their personal pilot. The Ellis family was one of the wealthiest families in Seattle. They had made their fortune in banking. Hugh flew the members of the Ellis family on their own personal plane to various locations. When Hugh got called up, he recommended his wife, Vera, to take his place. Vera had just earned her commercial pilot’s license and she had proved that she was a capable and skilled pilot. The Ellis family decided to give her a chance and she proved to them that she was able to fly their plane and get them where they needed to be safely. Vera was hired as the Ellis family’s personal pilot. They offered her less money than Hugh had gotten but she agreed to their offer.
A little time after Vera started working for the Ellis family, Pricilla and Vincent Ellis’s young son, Max, was kidnapped right from his own bedroom in the Ellis family home. Max’s parents, Pricilla and Vincent, received a ransom note shortly after the kidnapping. The ransom note demanded that they deliver a large sum of money to a location in a nearby park. The parents were distraught and together they brought the money to the location. No one was there, though, when they arrived. As they surveyed the area, they discovered that the kidnapper had been murdered. Where could their son be now? Was he safe? They waited for another ransom note to arrive but one never did. As the police and FBI got involved, other murders were discovered but there was no lead on where Max might be.
The dynamics of the Ellis family was questionable. Vincent was a known womanizer and liked his liquor a little too much. He treated his wife, Pricilla, with no respect or love. Vincent’s affairs were no secret. Vincent, his mother and brother, Rex, had openly talked about committing Pricilla to an institution. They treated her like she was crazy and did not deserve to be Max’s mother. Rex and his mother saw Vincent for who he was. Above everything else, though, Pricilla loved her son. Vera observed how the Ellis family, especially Vincent, treated Pricilla and it made her angry. One day, Pricilla reached out to Vera to help her find her son. It was hard for Vera to say no to her. After all, a child’s life was at sake. Vera agreed to help Pricilla find Max but she had no idea what dangers were lingering around the corner. Lies, secrets and deceit surfaced and were detected by Vera the more she got involved in helping to find Max. She never could have imagined the dangers and acts of violence she would have to face as she got closer to discovering the truth about what really happened to little Max. Vera came close to losing her own life several times. Would she be able to discover what had happened to Max before it was too late?
Only One Lie was the first book I had the pleasure of reading by Audrey J. Cole. I would definitely seek out other books by her in the future. In terms of criticism, I felt that some parts in Only One Lie were not very realistic. Some parts were just over the top and not very believable or convincing. Overall, though, I enjoyed reading Only One Lie and would recommend it. Publication was December 27, 2022.
Thank you to Rainer Publishers for allowing me to read Only One Lie by Audrey J. Cole through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Vera and Hugh Chandler were happily married and living in Seattle around the time Pearl Harbor was attacked by the Japanese. Hugh was a pilot serving in the Navy. He was called for active duty as a pilot shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor occurred. Prior to being called up, Hugh had worked for the Ellis family as their personal pilot. The Ellis family was one of the wealthiest families in Seattle. They had made their fortune in banking. Hugh flew the members of the Ellis family on their own personal plane to various locations. When Hugh got called up, he recommended his wife, Vera, to take his place. Vera had just earned her commercial pilot’s license and she had proved that she was a capable and skilled pilot. The Ellis family decided to give her a chance and she proved to them that she was able to fly their plane and get them where they needed to be safely. Vera was hired as the Ellis family’s personal pilot. They offered her less money than Hugh had gotten but she agreed to their offer.
A little time after Vera started working for the Ellis family, Pricilla and Vincent Ellis’s young son, Max, was kidnapped right from his own bedroom in the Ellis family home. Max’s parents, Pricilla and Vincent, received a ransom note shortly after the kidnapping. The ransom note demanded that they deliver a large sum of money to a location in a nearby park. The parents were distraught and together they brought the money to the location. No one was there, though, when they arrived. As they surveyed the area, they discovered that the kidnapper had been murdered. Where could their son be now? Was he safe? They waited for another ransom note to arrive but one never did. As the police and FBI got involved, other murders were discovered but there was no lead on where Max might be.
The dynamics of the Ellis family was questionable. Vincent was a known womanizer and liked his liquor a little too much. He treated his wife, Pricilla, with no respect or love. Vincent’s affairs were no secret. Vincent, his mother and brother, Rex, had openly talked about committing Pricilla to an institution. They treated her like she was crazy and did not deserve to be Max’s mother. Rex and his mother saw Vincent for who he was. Above everything else, though, Pricilla loved her son. Vera observed how the Ellis family, especially Vincent, treated Pricilla and it made her angry. One day, Pricilla reached out to Vera to help her find her son. It was hard for Vera to say no to her. After all, a child’s life was at sake. Vera agreed to help Pricilla find Max but she had no idea what dangers were lingering around the corner. Lies, secrets and deceit surfaced and were detected by Vera the more she got involved in helping to find Max. She never could have imagined the dangers and acts of violence she would have to face as she got closer to discovering the truth about what really happened to little Max. Vera came close to losing her own life several times. Would she be able to discover what had happened to Max before it was too late?
Only One Lie was the first book I had the pleasure of reading by Audrey J. Cole. I would definitely seek out other books by her in the future. In terms of criticism, I felt that some parts in Only One Lie were not very realistic. Some parts were just over the top and not very believable or convincing. Overall, though, I enjoyed reading Only One Lie and would recommend it. Publication was December 27, 2022.
Thank you to Rainer Publishers for allowing me to read Only One Lie by Audrey J. Cole through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
arc
March 13, 2024The author knows her subject matter and it shows. The book takes place in the Pacific Northwest (where the author lives), and our protagonist is a nursing-student-turned-pilot (while the author is a former nurse and pilot's daughter) - consequently, her knowledge and descriptions of those worlds is excellent.
I would classify this as a blend of historical fiction and cozy mystery. As a massive fan of WWII historical fiction who has read it all, I appreciate that the author went for a unique concept, with a setting in the Pacific Northwest and a protagonist who is neither directly nor indirectly involved in the war effort, but whose world is thrown into disarray because of it nevertheless.
When the protagonist takes up a position as a private pilot for a wealthy family, she gets more than she bargained for - but so do they: Vera Chandler is a worthy heroine to build a story around. Through her, we get an insider's look into the not-so-pretty world of the elite, and the secrets, deceit, and corruption that so often hide behind the glossy facade of wealth and privilege. This is a classic tale of those who have it all but want more, and the secrets the wealthy keep using their money, privilege, and influence (and bribery, and the ability to make people disappear). The mystery is more complex than expected, with suspense sustained throughout. In addition to Vera, the supporting characters are well fleshed out as the author never resorts to lazy black and white characterizations.
Thanks to NetGalley and Rainier Publishing for this ARC.
I would classify this as a blend of historical fiction and cozy mystery. As a massive fan of WWII historical fiction who has read it all, I appreciate that the author went for a unique concept, with a setting in the Pacific Northwest and a protagonist who is neither directly nor indirectly involved in the war effort, but whose world is thrown into disarray because of it nevertheless.
When the protagonist takes up a position as a private pilot for a wealthy family, she gets more than she bargained for - but so do they: Vera Chandler is a worthy heroine to build a story around. Through her, we get an insider's look into the not-so-pretty world of the elite, and the secrets, deceit, and corruption that so often hide behind the glossy facade of wealth and privilege. This is a classic tale of those who have it all but want more, and the secrets the wealthy keep using their money, privilege, and influence (and bribery, and the ability to make people disappear). The mystery is more complex than expected, with suspense sustained throughout. In addition to Vera, the supporting characters are well fleshed out as the author never resorts to lazy black and white characterizations.
Thanks to NetGalley and Rainier Publishing for this ARC.
December 5, 2022
3
I received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Alright alright, let's talk about the book...
Only One Lie by Audrey J. Cole is a page turning mystery novel based during World War II and boy does she understand the assignment.
Within this gripping novel we follow our MC:
Vera Chandler:
Truly a woman that was left up to her own demise that is trying to do right by a family that only wants to do wrong. Throughout this book we watch her grow from someone who is so unsure of her place to someone who is finally willing to stand up for their own. Vera is a heroine that we all want to be in every crazy elitist snobs story and boy is it absolutely magnificent.
Think of a book you would love to snuggle up and read in the middle of the night about and you will land yourself at this books door step.
Tropes:
-WWII
-Mystery
-FMC
-Thrilling twists and turns
-Exposing the rich
This book is truly something to behold, if you like novels that will bring you back to the time period and make you feel the characters stories this is quite the book for you!
Thank you NetGalley and Audrey J. Cole for allowing me to read your book!
I received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Alright alright, let's talk about the book...
Only One Lie by Audrey J. Cole is a page turning mystery novel based during World War II and boy does she understand the assignment.
Within this gripping novel we follow our MC:
Vera Chandler:
Truly a woman that was left up to her own demise that is trying to do right by a family that only wants to do wrong. Throughout this book we watch her grow from someone who is so unsure of her place to someone who is finally willing to stand up for their own. Vera is a heroine that we all want to be in every crazy elitist snobs story and boy is it absolutely magnificent.
Think of a book you would love to snuggle up and read in the middle of the night about and you will land yourself at this books door step.
Tropes:
-WWII
-Mystery
-FMC
-Thrilling twists and turns
-Exposing the rich
This book is truly something to behold, if you like novels that will bring you back to the time period and make you feel the characters stories this is quite the book for you!
Thank you NetGalley and Audrey J. Cole for allowing me to read your book!
November 11, 2022
4.5 STARS | ONLY ONE LIE is a COZY and ACTION-PACKED MYSTERY, and it releases to the public this December 2022! I enjoyed this book! It was fast-paced and easy to read! Seattle, 1942. The war is on and a kidnapping of young Max Ellis has interrupted it. When the boy’s parents comply with ransom demands, the kidnapper is found dead and their son still missing. Vera Chandler, a pilot works for the Ellis family as her husband Hugh is deployed to the Pacific for war. Left alone, her unsupportive parent’s words about her being served as a nurse for her country still haunts her. In an exchange for a favor that Vera can’t refuse, she helps the desperate mother of their missing child, Max. Soon, she is in a race to save the child’s life, and it could be the only way she can save her own. A thrilling book you MUST READ when it comes out December 27, 2022!
December 16, 2022
Book Title: Only One Lie
Author: Audrey J. Cole
Narrators: Kimberley Austin and Krys Janae
Publisher: Orange Sky Audio
Genre: Mystery, Historical Fiction
Pub Date: December 27, 2022
My Rating: 4.5 rounded up
I am not a big WWII fan ~ it was a horrible time in our history and most stories are sad.
This one is during WWII, the setting is the Pacific Northwest, and our protagonist is a female pilot.
Many years ago I read Fannie Flagg’s The All-Girl Filling Station’s Last Reunion it also feature WWII women Pilots. It was excellent.
Seattle, 1942: Young three year old Max Ellis has been kidnapped; his parents comply with ransom demands. When they arrive at the designated spot they find the kidnapper and the ransom but the kidnapper is found dead and Max is still missing.
Vera Chandler– our protagonist and her husband Hugh are both pilots. Hugh is the private pilot for the Ellis family. He is also in the Naval Reserve and just received a telegram that he has been deployed for service has to report for service in Hawaii. Since male pilots are in demand, Vera gets Hugh’s job as the Ellis family’s private pilot.
Vera has concerns about the mysterious kidnapping of the family's son, Max. Priscilla,
Max's mother, begs Vera to help her. Vera cannot help by notices how cruel Vincent is to his wife. Priscilla tells Vera that a private investigated is needed by Vincent claims he has this under control and won’t allow Priscilla to hire anyone else.
She sees an ally in Vera and Vera finally agrees. Vera discovers many secrets as she is soon aware of what is happening behind-the-scene. (Wow! Trust me there is a lot going on!)
Narrators Kimberley Austin and Krys Janas do a great job in performing these characters.
Their narration and yes! as well as Ms. Cole’s writing has us loving Vera, Priscilla as well as other great likeable characters and also have us hating Vincent immediately.
Note: A couple readers describes this as a cozy mystery ~ I am a big cozy mystery fan and although this follows most of what defines a cozy, there is more nasty language than necessary. Vincent’s nasty language certainly doesn’t ‘fit’ a cozy!
https://cozy-mystery.com/Definition-o...
True I didn’t agree completely however when another reader describes this as . . . . A hidden gem…I agree 100%!!!
Want to thank NetGalley and Orange Sky Audio for granting me the pleasure of listening to this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for December 27, 2022
Author: Audrey J. Cole
Narrators: Kimberley Austin and Krys Janae
Publisher: Orange Sky Audio
Genre: Mystery, Historical Fiction
Pub Date: December 27, 2022
My Rating: 4.5 rounded up
I am not a big WWII fan ~ it was a horrible time in our history and most stories are sad.
This one is during WWII, the setting is the Pacific Northwest, and our protagonist is a female pilot.
Many years ago I read Fannie Flagg’s The All-Girl Filling Station’s Last Reunion it also feature WWII women Pilots. It was excellent.
Seattle, 1942: Young three year old Max Ellis has been kidnapped; his parents comply with ransom demands. When they arrive at the designated spot they find the kidnapper and the ransom but the kidnapper is found dead and Max is still missing.
Vera Chandler– our protagonist and her husband Hugh are both pilots. Hugh is the private pilot for the Ellis family. He is also in the Naval Reserve and just received a telegram that he has been deployed for service has to report for service in Hawaii. Since male pilots are in demand, Vera gets Hugh’s job as the Ellis family’s private pilot.
Vera has concerns about the mysterious kidnapping of the family's son, Max. Priscilla,
Max's mother, begs Vera to help her. Vera cannot help by notices how cruel Vincent is to his wife. Priscilla tells Vera that a private investigated is needed by Vincent claims he has this under control and won’t allow Priscilla to hire anyone else.
She sees an ally in Vera and Vera finally agrees. Vera discovers many secrets as she is soon aware of what is happening behind-the-scene. (Wow! Trust me there is a lot going on!)
Narrators Kimberley Austin and Krys Janas do a great job in performing these characters.
Their narration and yes! as well as Ms. Cole’s writing has us loving Vera, Priscilla as well as other great likeable characters and also have us hating Vincent immediately.
Note: A couple readers describes this as a cozy mystery ~ I am a big cozy mystery fan and although this follows most of what defines a cozy, there is more nasty language than necessary. Vincent’s nasty language certainly doesn’t ‘fit’ a cozy!
https://cozy-mystery.com/Definition-o...
True I didn’t agree completely however when another reader describes this as . . . . A hidden gem…I agree 100%!!!
Want to thank NetGalley and Orange Sky Audio for granting me the pleasure of listening to this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for December 27, 2022
September 28, 2022
This book has two unique things going for it; an uncommon wartime setting and a female private pilot.
I enjoyed reading about familiar places in the Pacific Northwest not often chosen as settings for wartime fiction. The focus of this book is on the homefront where the kidnapping of a child from a wealthy banking magnate has taken place. The protagonist is pulled into this investigation because she’s hired as the Ellis family’s private pilot while her Navy husband is deployed to the Pacific. Her role in the family allows us to see a behind-the-scenes look at what’s hiding behind the facade this family presents to the public as well as the corruption and secrets they're caught up in. Vera Chandler is a force to be reckoned with and this family have no idea who they’ve let into their fold. Can little Max be rescued? Will it come at a cost?
Audrey J. Cole always delivers more than we expect and readers will be hampered by the web of deceit and corruption as they allow their inner sleuth a chance to solve the mystery.
I was gifted this advance copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
I enjoyed reading about familiar places in the Pacific Northwest not often chosen as settings for wartime fiction. The focus of this book is on the homefront where the kidnapping of a child from a wealthy banking magnate has taken place. The protagonist is pulled into this investigation because she’s hired as the Ellis family’s private pilot while her Navy husband is deployed to the Pacific. Her role in the family allows us to see a behind-the-scenes look at what’s hiding behind the facade this family presents to the public as well as the corruption and secrets they're caught up in. Vera Chandler is a force to be reckoned with and this family have no idea who they’ve let into their fold. Can little Max be rescued? Will it come at a cost?
Audrey J. Cole always delivers more than we expect and readers will be hampered by the web of deceit and corruption as they allow their inner sleuth a chance to solve the mystery.
I was gifted this advance copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
December 8, 2022
This was my first by this author and its my favorite book this month. I was completely captivated by the female pilot in this novel.
Its starts out with a bang, when a child is kidnapped late at night from a wealthy banking family. The nanny went to check on Max, the window was open, and the child was missing. Immediately they find a ransom note. This family is very complicated. The mother clearly adores her child and is in a horrible marriage, but all appearances can be deceiving.
The other main plot is the private pilot, Vera Chandler who is flies for the family. Vera’s husband was their pilot, but he is sent of with the Navy, and Vera steps in. What a way to start a new job, when the family you have been hired for has a kidnapping.
Will they find out who kidnapped the child? Will the child be alive? This reminded me of the Lindbergh case of the time.
I will be reading more by this author. Get your favorite drink, because you won’t want to put this book down. Thank you Netgalley . BooksGoSocial and Audrey J Cole for this advanced copy. This novel is due out December 27, 2022.
Its starts out with a bang, when a child is kidnapped late at night from a wealthy banking family. The nanny went to check on Max, the window was open, and the child was missing. Immediately they find a ransom note. This family is very complicated. The mother clearly adores her child and is in a horrible marriage, but all appearances can be deceiving.
The other main plot is the private pilot, Vera Chandler who is flies for the family. Vera’s husband was their pilot, but he is sent of with the Navy, and Vera steps in. What a way to start a new job, when the family you have been hired for has a kidnapping.
Will they find out who kidnapped the child? Will the child be alive? This reminded me of the Lindbergh case of the time.
I will be reading more by this author. Get your favorite drink, because you won’t want to put this book down. Thank you Netgalley . BooksGoSocial and Audrey J Cole for this advanced copy. This novel is due out December 27, 2022.
December 25, 2022
Only One Lie takes place during WWII with women pilots! I had no idea women were pilots back then! There’s a kidnapping involved and they all rally to find the little boy. The book started out strong but then I began to lose interest. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release. To be published December 2022.
March 22, 2023
I really like this author. Her books are easy to read with an engaging story. This one is set in WWII with a mystery surrounding a kidnapped boy of a wealthy family. The protagonist is a pilot, and we learn about the contribution of women pilots to the war effort. Very interesting! The protagonist is a strong woman bent on helping solve the kidnapping. There are a lot of nasty characters that she must navigate around. I’ve read two of her other books and will keep reading more!
December 11, 2022
ARC audiobook provided in exchange for an honest review.
Both of the narrators of this book did a fantastic job! I found their voices pleasant and easy to listen to. The story was very interesting being set right after Pearl Harbor and all the mysteries surrounding a young boys disappearance from his home. I really liked the dynamics of all the characters interaction but the only thing I was there was a little more of was backstory for Vera and Priscilla. I enjoyed all the twists and how I couldn’t guess with where it was going to end up and would definitely recommend to others who are fans of mysteries and thrillers.
Both of the narrators of this book did a fantastic job! I found their voices pleasant and easy to listen to. The story was very interesting being set right after Pearl Harbor and all the mysteries surrounding a young boys disappearance from his home. I really liked the dynamics of all the characters interaction but the only thing I was there was a little more of was backstory for Vera and Priscilla. I enjoyed all the twists and how I couldn’t guess with where it was going to end up and would definitely recommend to others who are fans of mysteries and thrillers.
December 31, 2022
Incredibly well researched and an amazing story about family drama, secrets and manipulation. Add to that a kidnapping, murders and a war in full swing and you have a fantastic story. Notwithstanding all of this, the best part for me were the many strong women carrying the story forward and their non-wavering support for each other.
Suspense and romance nicely mixed together, creating a memorable, hard to put down book which I thoroughly recommend.
(I received a digital review copy via Netgalley)
Suspense and romance nicely mixed together, creating a memorable, hard to put down book which I thoroughly recommend.
(I received a digital review copy via Netgalley)
February 13, 2023
This book held my interest but also had a lot of “wtf” moments. There were so many times I couldn’t figure out why in the world Vera would take the actions she was taking. She put herself in such risk it seemed crazy. Was happy with the outcome though.
🌀Synopsis
Vera is a female pilot in a time when females aren’t as respected as men. When her husband is called to serve in the military, she takes over as pilot for the prestigious Ellis family. This is, of course, also right after their son was kidnapped so the family is in turmoil.
Vera gets very close to Mrs. Ellis and decides she needs to help look into the kidnapping. There are many times she puts her career and life at risk. It becomes clear the Ellis family has some deep dark secrets and they do not like Mrs.Ellis.
As they uncover the secrets, they get closer to finding her son. Eventually, they do find him and also expose some other Ellis crimes as well.
🌀Synopsis
Vera is a female pilot in a time when females aren’t as respected as men. When her husband is called to serve in the military, she takes over as pilot for the prestigious Ellis family. This is, of course, also right after their son was kidnapped so the family is in turmoil.
Vera gets very close to Mrs. Ellis and decides she needs to help look into the kidnapping. There are many times she puts her career and life at risk. It becomes clear the Ellis family has some deep dark secrets and they do not like Mrs.Ellis.
As they uncover the secrets, they get closer to finding her son. Eventually, they do find him and also expose some other Ellis crimes as well.
December 25, 2022
The Female Pilot
Wow! This is one good story. I listened to the audio book and I couldn't stop until it was finished. It starts off strong and stays fast paced throughout the book with a bang of an ending.
It's set in the beginning of WWII but is not a story of the war , but a mystery set during the war time in Seattle, Washington. A young boy Max is kidnapped from a famous banking family and held for ransom. The companies personal pilot Hugh is called to service because of the war and the need for pilots. Because his new wife Vera is also a pilot he asks the family to let her take over his job as private pilot for the family.
When Vera takes over this job she is not aware of the secrets of the Ellis family and how it will affect her. She becomes pulled into their drama by Priscilla one of the Ellis brother's wives. Vera tries to help her solve the mystery of her kidnapped son and get him back but she gets involved in some very sticky situations while doing so at the risk of her life and some of those around her.
It is a very well written mystery and it keeps you listening until the end. It has many twists and turns and the ending is very well done. You will really enjoy this mystery. I Recommend this book.
The narrators, both of them, did a fantastic job. I really liked the two narrators. They had pleasant voices to listen to and were very easy to understand.
Thanks to Audrey J. Cole for writing a great mystery story, to Kimberly Austin and Krys Janae for a wonderful narration, to OrangeSky Audio for publishing it and to NetGalley for providing me with a copy to listen to and review.
Wow! This is one good story. I listened to the audio book and I couldn't stop until it was finished. It starts off strong and stays fast paced throughout the book with a bang of an ending.
It's set in the beginning of WWII but is not a story of the war , but a mystery set during the war time in Seattle, Washington. A young boy Max is kidnapped from a famous banking family and held for ransom. The companies personal pilot Hugh is called to service because of the war and the need for pilots. Because his new wife Vera is also a pilot he asks the family to let her take over his job as private pilot for the family.
When Vera takes over this job she is not aware of the secrets of the Ellis family and how it will affect her. She becomes pulled into their drama by Priscilla one of the Ellis brother's wives. Vera tries to help her solve the mystery of her kidnapped son and get him back but she gets involved in some very sticky situations while doing so at the risk of her life and some of those around her.
It is a very well written mystery and it keeps you listening until the end. It has many twists and turns and the ending is very well done. You will really enjoy this mystery. I Recommend this book.
The narrators, both of them, did a fantastic job. I really liked the two narrators. They had pleasant voices to listen to and were very easy to understand.
Thanks to Audrey J. Cole for writing a great mystery story, to Kimberly Austin and Krys Janae for a wonderful narration, to OrangeSky Audio for publishing it and to NetGalley for providing me with a copy to listen to and review.
February 19, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and OrangeSky Audio for accepting my request to read and review Only One Lie.
Published: 12/22/27
For reasons that I cannot explain nor do I understand, this was a miss for me. It took over a week to finish, and there were times I just didn't want to pick it up. I found it to be tiring. Boy, when I saw the end coming, I had a sudden burst of energy only to be deflated. The ending went on and on.
It doesn't help that I didn't like any of the characters. Nothing about the story was realistic. It seemed to far-fetched. And, this did have one of my least favorite type of character -- the whiner. The one who knows they are in a dangerous situation, has to be told shh, hush, be quiet and they don't.
I had the audiobook, and did like the narrator. Unfortunately her performance couldn't save me. 2.5 stars, I'm uncomfortable rounding up. Please don't let my review hold you back, if the things I mentioned don't bother you. The cover and title were enough for me to read.
Published: 12/22/27
For reasons that I cannot explain nor do I understand, this was a miss for me. It took over a week to finish, and there were times I just didn't want to pick it up. I found it to be tiring. Boy, when I saw the end coming, I had a sudden burst of energy only to be deflated. The ending went on and on.
It doesn't help that I didn't like any of the characters. Nothing about the story was realistic. It seemed to far-fetched. And, this did have one of my least favorite type of character -- the whiner. The one who knows they are in a dangerous situation, has to be told shh, hush, be quiet and they don't.
I had the audiobook, and did like the narrator. Unfortunately her performance couldn't save me. 2.5 stars, I'm uncomfortable rounding up. Please don't let my review hold you back, if the things I mentioned don't bother you. The cover and title were enough for me to read.
December 26, 2022
The story was interesting and I particularly liked the look back at 1942 Seattle and the deeper look at female pilots in the states at that time. I also loved that some of this was set in Ballard, which is where dear friends of ours live!
I strongly preferred one narrator over the other which made it a little bit difficult to fully enjoy the sections from Max’s moms perspective. I actually would’ve enjoyed this a bit more had it not had so many extra dramatic moments. Just when you think the characters were in the clear, something else over the top happened. Suspending belief is a must when reading this but as long as you’re willing to do that I think you’ll find this a nice and quick listen.
Thank you orange sky audio and Netgalley for the alc in exchange for an honest review.
December 24, 2022
Really enjoyed this historical mystery thriller! Loved the research the author put into this story. It’s evident she was very passionate about writing it.
The main character isn’t your typical housewife in the 40s. Rather, she dreamt of becoming a pilot, which was typically a male’s job. I thought that element of the story was awesome to showcase.
I enjoyed the mystery and suspense of the book and how it all unraveled in the end. Even the heart-warming parts of the story fit in nicely.
Highly recommend this if you’re into historical mystery novels!
The main character isn’t your typical housewife in the 40s. Rather, she dreamt of becoming a pilot, which was typically a male’s job. I thought that element of the story was awesome to showcase.
I enjoyed the mystery and suspense of the book and how it all unraveled in the end. Even the heart-warming parts of the story fit in nicely.
Highly recommend this if you’re into historical mystery novels!
November 27, 2022
It's 1942 in Seattle, and everyone's attention is focused on the war. But, when Max Ellis, heir to the wealthy banking family, is kidnapped, attentions shift. Vera Chandler's husband Hugh is the Ellis family pilot, so this kidnapping hits close to home. When Hugh is reenlisted in the war, Vera has the opportunity to fulfill her life-long dream of being a pilot as she slips into his role for the Ellis family. Once in the fold, she quickly realizes how corrupt this family is & just how deadly crossing them might be.
"It was only one lie. I never imagined it would turn into this."
Another fast-paced read from Audrey Cole! Audrey knows her stuff when it comes to piloting and planes, and it shows. This read like a cozy mystery with the war as the backdrop. The last hundred pages or so were thrilling to read as Vera got herself more and more entwined in the mystery of the kidnapping of Max.
I really enjoyed Audrey spotlighting female pilots during the war effort. Heroine Vera is an admirable character in more ways than one in this story.
I’m always up for whatever trip Audrey takes me on & this one took me to Seattle and into a family full of lies and deceit. A fun, action-packed read that I would absolutely recommend to HistFict fans!
This novel hits shelves in December!
"It was only one lie. I never imagined it would turn into this."
Another fast-paced read from Audrey Cole! Audrey knows her stuff when it comes to piloting and planes, and it shows. This read like a cozy mystery with the war as the backdrop. The last hundred pages or so were thrilling to read as Vera got herself more and more entwined in the mystery of the kidnapping of Max.
I really enjoyed Audrey spotlighting female pilots during the war effort. Heroine Vera is an admirable character in more ways than one in this story.
I’m always up for whatever trip Audrey takes me on & this one took me to Seattle and into a family full of lies and deceit. A fun, action-packed read that I would absolutely recommend to HistFict fans!
This novel hits shelves in December!
December 31, 2022
Audrey J. Cole is one of my favorite authors and she does not disappoint with her latest Only One Lie. She has out done herself with this one. This is a well written and researched novel. Her writing style makes this a pleasure to read. A fast paced historical thriller, Ms. Cole will grab you from the start and does not let go until very end. She uniquely combines historical fiction with a mysterious thriller. She adds so much to it…….secrets, twist and turns, suspense, drama, kidnapping and intrigue to name a few. A child of a wealthy family is kidnapped and a young woman pilot is asked to help this family. Murder and intrigue will keep you in the edge of your seat. I highly recommend this author and her books, she will not let you down.
Thank you NetGalley, Rainier Publishing and Audrey J. Cole for this advanced copy of this fascinating story. The opinions expressed are my own.
#netgalley #rainierpublishing. #audreyjcole #arc
#historicalfiction #historicalthriller
Thank you NetGalley, Rainier Publishing and Audrey J. Cole for this advanced copy of this fascinating story. The opinions expressed are my own.
#netgalley #rainierpublishing. #audreyjcole #arc
#historicalfiction #historicalthriller
January 8, 2023
“It was only one lie. I never imagined it would turn into this,” (217). With a family full of liars and cheats, who could you ever really trust?
Set in 1942 Seattle, this is a story about a boy from a prominent family being kidnapped. But it’s so much more than that. Centering on the lives of four women, we get a look into the roles women played during WWII - in both the home-workplace setting and during wartime.
The women in this story had to stick together and help each other out - working together. You can feel the natural bond between them growing as the story progresses. A central focus in the book is the suppression of women during this era in history. Women could do the same amount of work as the men but they couldn’t reap the same rewards. This is a common theme in our history - whether it be women, people of color, the poor - we still struggle with some of these same things in today’s world.
This book is outside the box of what we normally expect from an Audrey J Cole novel and yet she’s pulled off the perfect transition. While there are many high action moments in this book they are more mellowed compared to her other books. Surprisingly, this didn’t take away from the heart-quickening edge-of-your-seat thriller vibes that her writing gives us.
Compelling and completely engrossing you’re bound to love this book. There’s something about being trapped in the sky in a tin box - when things start to go wrong - that makes you feel the suspense and apprehension that much more. Being a pilots daughter has given Cole this edge. It’ll never get old.
Set in 1942 Seattle, this is a story about a boy from a prominent family being kidnapped. But it’s so much more than that. Centering on the lives of four women, we get a look into the roles women played during WWII - in both the home-workplace setting and during wartime.
The women in this story had to stick together and help each other out - working together. You can feel the natural bond between them growing as the story progresses. A central focus in the book is the suppression of women during this era in history. Women could do the same amount of work as the men but they couldn’t reap the same rewards. This is a common theme in our history - whether it be women, people of color, the poor - we still struggle with some of these same things in today’s world.
This book is outside the box of what we normally expect from an Audrey J Cole novel and yet she’s pulled off the perfect transition. While there are many high action moments in this book they are more mellowed compared to her other books. Surprisingly, this didn’t take away from the heart-quickening edge-of-your-seat thriller vibes that her writing gives us.
Compelling and completely engrossing you’re bound to love this book. There’s something about being trapped in the sky in a tin box - when things start to go wrong - that makes you feel the suspense and apprehension that much more. Being a pilots daughter has given Cole this edge. It’ll never get old.
November 16, 2022
I am a huge fan of WWII historical fiction as well as a cozy mystery. I'd say this book hit both of those genres beautifully and fanned my flame! The main character, Vera, is a former nursing student but decided she wanted something more, so she became a pilot. Vera takes on a job with an elite wealthy family as their private pilot after her husband is called to duty in the war. The family is hesitant to take on a female as a pilot, however they do it. What Vera finds once she's inside the job is not what she expected. She's immediately drawn into the mysterious kidnapping of the family's son, Max. Priscilla, Max's mother, begs Vera to help her. Vera is in too deep when she realizes the danger that she's in. In the back of her mind, she can't help but also think, will this finally prove that the profession I've chosen is a worthy one for a female?
Audrey Cole done a wonderful job portraying the issues that come with someone who has it all but wants more.
Thank you to NetGalley, Audrey J Cole, and Rainer Publishing for allowing me this chance to review this arc ebook .
Audrey Cole done a wonderful job portraying the issues that come with someone who has it all but wants more.
Thank you to NetGalley, Audrey J Cole, and Rainer Publishing for allowing me this chance to review this arc ebook .
December 12, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up.
This book was billed as a "thrilling, suspense-driven mystery" and it ended up being an "ok" thriller but compelling historical fiction mystery for me. The mystery of the kidnapping is at the heart of the story, but it was a lot less compelling than the life of the female pilots. If you're looking for historical fiction, then you will likely enjoy this book. However, if what you're looking for is a suspenseful thriller, this probably isn't going to fit the bill. 3.5 stars rounded up.
Thank you to NetGalley, Rainier Publishing, and OrangeSky Audio for this ARC!
This book was billed as a "thrilling, suspense-driven mystery" and it ended up being an "ok" thriller but compelling historical fiction mystery for me. The mystery of the kidnapping is at the heart of the story, but it was a lot less compelling than the life of the female pilots. If you're looking for historical fiction, then you will likely enjoy this book. However, if what you're looking for is a suspenseful thriller, this probably isn't going to fit the bill. 3.5 stars rounded up.
Thank you to NetGalley, Rainier Publishing, and OrangeSky Audio for this ARC!
November 27, 2022
This is a hidden gem! I have been asked by Publishers, Authors and Netgalley questions about our reading habits, how to get over a slump your favorite book of 2022, which book would you recommend for people who don't like to read (the last question is nearly unfathomable to me) but now I have an answer, Only One Lie by Audrey J. Cole is in the top 3 books that I have read thus far in 22! I never push this hard on Social Media or my blog about a book, this is what reading should be, you are pulled in from the beginning, the historical aspects make you feel as though you are there, the kidnapped little boy, Max , causes a tension that you feel throughout the book,(please don't let anything happen to Max!) The moving story of the courageous young women who defied convention in order to take flying lessons in order to serve their Country in wartime, incredibly powerful, all the young men who gave their lives in order for us to have the freedoms we should cherish. I felt so much emotion through this murder mystery, Historical Mystery Genre book, it's amazing what a good story evokes in us. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Thank you to the Administrator on Facebook who asked "Do we request books based on the Publisher", and my answer was no, I am so thrilled to have gone back to this publisher's page, took more time and located this book! I am giving it a 4.5, for the way I rate, would be a 10!
Thank you #Netgalley #BooksGoSocial
I highly recommend!
carolintallahassee
Thank you #Netgalley #BooksGoSocial
I highly recommend!
carolintallahassee
January 16, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you Audrey J. Cole and Goddess Fish Promotions. I'm excited to be a part of this tour.
I enjoy reading books about WW II and the role women played in supporting the war. Only one Lie is an intriguing tale of how Vera takes over her husband’s job of flying a plane for one of the wealthiest couples in Seattle, WA when he is called to active duty. The author does a great job of explaining what wartime America was like. The characters are well written, and their descriptions bring them to life.
When the wealthy couple’s child is kidnapped, Vera finds herself sucked into their family drama and search for the child. As a result, she finds herself in danger. The reader is taken on a journey filled with suspension and twist that will have you engaged from start to finish. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about this era as well as the different planes used during the war.
I look forward to reading more from this author and highly recommend this book to anyone who loves reading about history mixed with a bit of suspense.
I enjoy reading books about WW II and the role women played in supporting the war. Only one Lie is an intriguing tale of how Vera takes over her husband’s job of flying a plane for one of the wealthiest couples in Seattle, WA when he is called to active duty. The author does a great job of explaining what wartime America was like. The characters are well written, and their descriptions bring them to life.
When the wealthy couple’s child is kidnapped, Vera finds herself sucked into their family drama and search for the child. As a result, she finds herself in danger. The reader is taken on a journey filled with suspension and twist that will have you engaged from start to finish. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about this era as well as the different planes used during the war.
I look forward to reading more from this author and highly recommend this book to anyone who loves reading about history mixed with a bit of suspense.
January 2, 2023
Only One Lie by Audrey J. Cole is an amazingly detailed historical fiction/mystery/thriller.
One of the things I love most about historical fiction is learning new facts about the era. The book seems exceptionally well-researched. You can tell the author has an affinity for the time period, the planes, and the women pilots serving their country during the war. I definitely need to learn more about this somewhat forgotten part of history.
Vera is a trailblazer, defying her parents to become a pilot. When her husband is deployed to Hawaii, she takes over his job as a private pilot to the wealthy banking family headed by Ruth Ellis. While this seems innocuous enough, she is soon drawn into the mystery, mayhem, and murder surrounding the family.
Risking life and limb to rescue kidnapped three-year-old Max Ellis, Vera encounters lie after lie until she is unsure who to trust. It seems that everywhere she turns, someone is threatening her very life.
Will she discover the threads of truth to rescue Max and survive herself? Read the book! You need to absorb this one for yourself.
I held my breath through entire chapters at the life-threatening predicaments Vera encountered. And my heart broke at the travails, loss of life, and lack of respect for these amazing women who put it all on the line for their country.
Many of the characters are wholly unlikeable, which is balanced by the depth of friendship and camaraderie displayed by others.
I found this book to be gripping and satisfying. I kept reading page after page, and chapter after chapter, always racing to figure out who was behind this terrible plot to kidnap Max and institutionalize his mother.
Aside from the excitement of the story, I also got a feel for the plight of women during the 1940s. With unequal pay, benefits, and human rights, the story presents many discussion topics.
If you enjoy reading about the WW2 era, particularly women in flight, grab your copy of this thrilling novel today.
I received a digital copy of the book for a virtual book tour. This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
One of the things I love most about historical fiction is learning new facts about the era. The book seems exceptionally well-researched. You can tell the author has an affinity for the time period, the planes, and the women pilots serving their country during the war. I definitely need to learn more about this somewhat forgotten part of history.
Vera is a trailblazer, defying her parents to become a pilot. When her husband is deployed to Hawaii, she takes over his job as a private pilot to the wealthy banking family headed by Ruth Ellis. While this seems innocuous enough, she is soon drawn into the mystery, mayhem, and murder surrounding the family.
Risking life and limb to rescue kidnapped three-year-old Max Ellis, Vera encounters lie after lie until she is unsure who to trust. It seems that everywhere she turns, someone is threatening her very life.
Will she discover the threads of truth to rescue Max and survive herself? Read the book! You need to absorb this one for yourself.
I held my breath through entire chapters at the life-threatening predicaments Vera encountered. And my heart broke at the travails, loss of life, and lack of respect for these amazing women who put it all on the line for their country.
Many of the characters are wholly unlikeable, which is balanced by the depth of friendship and camaraderie displayed by others.
I found this book to be gripping and satisfying. I kept reading page after page, and chapter after chapter, always racing to figure out who was behind this terrible plot to kidnap Max and institutionalize his mother.
Aside from the excitement of the story, I also got a feel for the plight of women during the 1940s. With unequal pay, benefits, and human rights, the story presents many discussion topics.
If you enjoy reading about the WW2 era, particularly women in flight, grab your copy of this thrilling novel today.
I received a digital copy of the book for a virtual book tour. This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
December 29, 2022
Thank you OrangeSky Audio and Netgalley.com. It was an interrsting story from Northern Pacific. I loved to learn some new details of the Second World War. I was interested to see the story about a female pilot. The experience, the choices she had to make. Helping someone and discovering all the bad things that happen in this world is really sad. But anyway the mystery and history were great combined and was a greeping listening for me.
March 21, 2023
3.75 stars. Pretty good 🍅
December 23, 2022
To the publishers: Thank you for this book in exchange for my honest review.
Being that I received Only One Lie by Audrey J. Cole in audio format, I was able to hear the writer’s intention for surprise even better than if I was reading the book in print. The author did a fabulous job at suspense and I was on the edge of my seat the whole time.
Being that I received Only One Lie by Audrey J. Cole in audio format, I was able to hear the writer’s intention for surprise even better than if I was reading the book in print. The author did a fabulous job at suspense and I was on the edge of my seat the whole time.
December 14, 2022
A Historical Fiction mixed with a Thriller?!?! Audrey did just that! I never knew that mixing these two genres could be done so eloquently. I love both of these genres so I was so excited to see that NetGalley approved me for this ARC. You can tell that Audrey is so passionate about this time era and the research on settings, plot lines, and character development was thorough. The twists and turns were strategically placed so that it did not take away from the setting but were enough to keep me engaged throughout the book. As someone who deployed in combat arms myself, I was so happy to see a strong, driven female protagonist in this story who kicked butt. Looking forward to catching up on my backlist of books and reading The Pilot's Daughter next!!!
December 29, 2022
Only one lie.
By Audrey j Cole.
A truly wonderful novel. Written about 1942 and women pilots, and so much more.
This was a wonderful read for me, I absolutely loved this story everything about it. To go back in time, stories like these are just the best. And then you throw in a kidnapping. Some criminals,some folks who lie. Well only one lie. Or is it.
Vera,
Soon to take a job for the Ellis family as a pilot after her her husband Hugh is drafted to the war,
Taking over his job or hoping to after The recommendation he gave to his boss. She will have to pass a few tests. To make sure she can do this job. Being a woman.
A lot more is involved than anyone knew about..
This story has, some ✈️ flight time.
Some crime. Some Deceitful People only looking out for their best interest. Also has some good people who only wants what's best for everyone..
Another great book. Thank you Audrey j Cole.
By Audrey j Cole.
A truly wonderful novel. Written about 1942 and women pilots, and so much more.
This was a wonderful read for me, I absolutely loved this story everything about it. To go back in time, stories like these are just the best. And then you throw in a kidnapping. Some criminals,some folks who lie. Well only one lie. Or is it.
Vera,
Soon to take a job for the Ellis family as a pilot after her her husband Hugh is drafted to the war,
Taking over his job or hoping to after The recommendation he gave to his boss. She will have to pass a few tests. To make sure she can do this job. Being a woman.
A lot more is involved than anyone knew about..
This story has, some ✈️ flight time.
Some crime. Some Deceitful People only looking out for their best interest. Also has some good people who only wants what's best for everyone..
Another great book. Thank you Audrey j Cole.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews