A review by asims723
Lies on the Serpent's Tongue by Kate Pearsall

dark emotional mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

I need to start this review by saying I really do enjoy this series. The James women are all very interesting characters, and I love that the author is taking the time to tell a story from hopefully each of them. I have my delighted suspicions about who will be next with the fervor of a reader theorizing about a beloved series. 
That being said, Lies on the Serpent's Tongue does a lot of things very well. It begins with a great recap of Bittersweet in the Hollow, and there is plenty of moderately spooky elements to keep it thrilling. Rowan's brand of magic is scenting lies, and that's such an interesting one to have! I found it so interesting and realistic that even people who know of her skill still lie knowing she can detect it. Knowing a lie is a lie is not the same thing as knowing truth. 
Some fun romance tropes were included like One Tent (variation of one bed, maybe the YA version?) and fake dating. My one issue is that this book does feel a little underdeveloped. I wish it was longer and could explore new family relationships and provide a less rushed conclusion.
This series is fun but dark YA. I can't really think of anything else I've read like it, and that is perhaps the highest compliment I can pay an author.  I can't wait to read them all.
Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Young Readers - G.P. Putnam's Sons for this ARC!
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