Review by riannonsbookishera - First Lie Wins

riannonsbookishera 's review for:

First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston

3.5

mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Plot

Strong character development: Complicated

Loveable characters: No

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: No

The premise is intriguing, centered on characters whose lives are intertwined with secrets and lies. The plot was rich with tension, and characters were well-developed, each hiding layers of truths and lies that made them as deceiving as the narrater seems.

While this book is marketed as a thriller, it often feels more like a domestic drama with suspenseful elements rather than a full-fledged thriller. The pacing is steady, but I found myself wishing for more high-stakes moments and twists that every thrill seeker is looking for in a "thriller". The plot builds slowly, and though it is well-crafted, it lacks the heart-pounding intensity that you might be expecting when picking up this book.

Despite this, the conclusion is satisfying and delivers a powerful punch that ties up the story beautifully. It's a solid read for those who enjoy character-driven stories with an undercurrent of suspense. While I would have appreciated more thrills, the strong ending makes it a worthwhile read. If you go in with the right expectations, you'll likely find it a rewarding experience.

Content Warnings