A review by gammys_reads
The Five Year Lie: A Domestic Thriller by Sarina Bowen

emotional mysterious reflective tense medium-paced

5.0

BRILLIANT!!! Thank you NetGalley and Harper Perennial and Paperbacks for granting me access to this book in exchange for an honest review

This gripping and suspenseful thriller seamlessly blends elements of mystery and romance, leaving readers guessing until the final moments!! The intense and heart-pounding prologue immediately captivates, drawing readers deep into the immersive story from the start. The author masterfully crafts dynamic and relatable characters that readers are instantly drawn to and emotionally invested in. Through the smooth transition between present day events and those from five years ago, the mystery gradually comes to light. This captivating story not only evokes a sense of fear but also prompts deep reflection on the ethical implications of technology's pervasive presence in our lives. With its intricate blend of secrets, family drama, romance, murder, and suspense, coupled with fast-paced storytelling, concise chapters, alternating viewpoints, and clever references to the Toy Story movie, this novel delivers a thrilling and satisfying experience, culminating in a remarkable conclusion!! Another thriller to add to my favorites list for 2024!!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

On an ordinary Monday morning, Ariel Cafferty's phone buzzes with a chilling text message: "Something's happened. I need to see you. Meet me under the candelabra tree ASAP." The sender's name is Drew-the only man she ever loved, who supposedly died several years ago. Seeing his name pop up is heart-stopping for Ariel, who initially doubts its authenticity but decides to go to the tree anyway. Nobody shows up, but the text shatters everything she believed about the day Drew left her. As Ariel delves deeper, she uncovers unsettling truths that challenge the narrative she's been told for the past five years. With each question she asks, the answers become more sinister, revealing a web of lies that someone is still weaving around her. Determined to protect herself and her son, Ariel knows she must unearth the truth before it consumes her. But as she races against time, she realizes that the key to discovering what happened to Drew lies in unraveling the mystery surrounding their past. 

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this compelling and entertaining thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat until the very last page! This is my first read by Sarina Bowen and I cannot wait to read more of her books! I do highly recommend and it deserves all the stars!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️