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My Word Against His
‘It’s me,’ says the voice on the other end of the line. It’s been thirteen years and I still recognise it. Thirteen years of nothing. Silence. Not even a birthday card. ‘It’s time for you to tell the truth. It’s life or death.’
Three hours later, car tyres screech and the air bags release. For a second, nothing happens. There’s only stunned silence and a ringing in my ears.
I peel open my eyes. What have I done? There’s a groan, and I gasp, terrified, at the sight of the man next to me. This is all his fault.
Fumbling with the door, I half step, half fall into the freezing cold air. I’m shivering all over as my knees land on the tarmac. ‘Help,’ I whisper into the dark, empty street.
Then there’s a flash of blue light. A siren. The police are coming. They will save me, and arrest him. They will see a dangerous man and an innocent victim – a loving mother with a son she cherishes.
They have to – because they can’t know the truth. They can’t discover what happened thirteen years ago and what happened tonight. All those years back, the lies nearly destroyed us. I won’t let that happen today.
It’s my word against his. And there’s no line I won’t cross to protect my family.
Three hours later, car tyres screech and the air bags release. For a second, nothing happens. There’s only stunned silence and a ringing in my ears.
I peel open my eyes. What have I done? There’s a groan, and I gasp, terrified, at the sight of the man next to me. This is all his fault.
Fumbling with the door, I half step, half fall into the freezing cold air. I’m shivering all over as my knees land on the tarmac. ‘Help,’ I whisper into the dark, empty street.
Then there’s a flash of blue light. A siren. The police are coming. They will save me, and arrest him. They will see a dangerous man and an innocent victim – a loving mother with a son she cherishes.
They have to – because they can’t know the truth. They can’t discover what happened thirteen years ago and what happened tonight. All those years back, the lies nearly destroyed us. I won’t let that happen today.
It’s my word against his. And there’s no line I won’t cross to protect my family.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 26, 2023
1127 people are currently reading
1467 people want to read
About the author
Lauren North
15 books517 followersLauren writes psychological suspense novels that delve into the darker side of relationships and families. She has a lifelong passion for writing, reading, and all things books. Lauren’s love of psychological suspense has grown since childhood and her dark imagination of always wondering what’s the worst thing that could happen in every situation.
Lauren studied psychology before moving to London where she lived and worked for many years. She now lives with her family in the Suffolk countryside. Readers can follow Lauren on Twitter @Lauren_C_North and Facebook @LaurenNorthAuthor
Lauren studied psychology before moving to London where she lived and worked for many years. She now lives with her family in the Suffolk countryside. Readers can follow Lauren on Twitter @Lauren_C_North and Facebook @LaurenNorthAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 219 reviews
April 16, 2023
‘It’s me,’ says the voice on the other end of the line. It’s been thirteen years and I still recognise it. Thirteen years of nothing. Silence. Not even a birthday card. ‘It’s time for you to tell the truth. It’s life or death.’
What follows the above conversation, is a chain of events that will bring tragedy, together with lies, and deeply hidden secrets - secrets that are about to finally reveal themselves.
Just hours later, Celia lies injured in the middle of the road in a strange city far from home - far from her darling son Henry. She feels the panic escalating, 17 year old Henry would have been expecting her home from work hours ago, he’ll be worried sick wondering where she’s got to, after all, there’s only the two of them. However, she hears a siren, and finally she sees the blue flashing lights - the police will sort all this out, and arrest the man, Sam, who’s responsible for forcing her at knife point to take him up to Leeds in the North of England, and she has no idea why! But it won’t be as simple as that - because both Sam and herself are hiding behind a mask!
Celia decides she will continue with her lies, after all, it’s Sam’s word against hers, and he’s the criminal with a police record, not her!
I really couldn’t make up my mind which way this was going - who was good and who was bad, so many twists and turns. My advice - Trust No One!
*Thank you to Bookouture for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
What follows the above conversation, is a chain of events that will bring tragedy, together with lies, and deeply hidden secrets - secrets that are about to finally reveal themselves.
Just hours later, Celia lies injured in the middle of the road in a strange city far from home - far from her darling son Henry. She feels the panic escalating, 17 year old Henry would have been expecting her home from work hours ago, he’ll be worried sick wondering where she’s got to, after all, there’s only the two of them. However, she hears a siren, and finally she sees the blue flashing lights - the police will sort all this out, and arrest the man, Sam, who’s responsible for forcing her at knife point to take him up to Leeds in the North of England, and she has no idea why! But it won’t be as simple as that - because both Sam and herself are hiding behind a mask!
Celia decides she will continue with her lies, after all, it’s Sam’s word against hers, and he’s the criminal with a police record, not her!
I really couldn’t make up my mind which way this was going - who was good and who was bad, so many twists and turns. My advice - Trust No One!
*Thank you to Bookouture for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
May 27, 2023
HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY!
I can't believe how fast paced and full of twists this was and it all starts so early on!! I had several of those moments where it seems the book would wrap up because of a big reveal but it wasn't even 50% yet... and again and again. I also repeatedly thought I was onto something and could predict what was happening and each time I was wrong.
The plot had me hooked from the start - FMC is kidnapped at knife point and trying to get somewhere urgently to help someone with a difficult background from her past. We see the back story and relationship between the MCs told in past POVs.
I liked the use of mixed media. But I think some of it, along with some of the POVs, made it a bit confusing. This may have been intentional so it certainly makes you think a bit.
I would recommend this to domestic thriller readers who can suspend disbelief and turn a blind eye to some particularly frustrating unreliable narrator parts, including an ending that I personally don't rate at all but some may enjoy. There are also some parts that don't add up after some of the big 'reveals', but it was enjoyable enough to overlook, even if irked by it.
⚠️ Check TWs online, includes DV ⚠️
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and Bookouture for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
I can't believe how fast paced and full of twists this was and it all starts so early on!! I had several of those moments where it seems the book would wrap up because of a big reveal but it wasn't even 50% yet... and again and again. I also repeatedly thought I was onto something and could predict what was happening and each time I was wrong.
The plot had me hooked from the start - FMC is kidnapped at knife point and trying to get somewhere urgently to help someone with a difficult background from her past. We see the back story and relationship between the MCs told in past POVs.
I liked the use of mixed media. But I think some of it, along with some of the POVs, made it a bit confusing. This may have been intentional so it certainly makes you think a bit.
I would recommend this to domestic thriller readers who can suspend disbelief and turn a blind eye to some particularly frustrating unreliable narrator parts, including an ending that I personally don't rate at all but some may enjoy. There are also some parts that don't add up after some of the big 'reveals', but it was enjoyable enough to overlook, even if irked by it.
⚠️ Check TWs online, includes DV ⚠️
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and Bookouture for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
June 10, 2023
THE TRUTH versus LIES.
His word against hers.
Which unreliable narrator is telling the truth?
This "Who Dunnit and Why?" twisty and suspense-filled thriller/domestic drama begins with a carjacking and a knife.
It's a book about obsessions, deeply flawed protagonists, a mother's love for her son, and social stigma.
Unfolding from multiple perspectives in three different parts, the book was borderline confusing in the beginning.
Yet, as the book progressed, everything came together and the plot sizzled and soared.
Lauren North is one of my favorite go-to authors who pens books with brilliantly and intricately woven plots and strong and compelling characterizations.
I listened to the audiobook, read by Eloise Mignon, who did an outstanding job with the narration.
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 Stars.
His word against hers.
Which unreliable narrator is telling the truth?
This "Who Dunnit and Why?" twisty and suspense-filled thriller/domestic drama begins with a carjacking and a knife.
It's a book about obsessions, deeply flawed protagonists, a mother's love for her son, and social stigma.
Unfolding from multiple perspectives in three different parts, the book was borderline confusing in the beginning.
Yet, as the book progressed, everything came together and the plot sizzled and soared.
Lauren North is one of my favorite go-to authors who pens books with brilliantly and intricately woven plots and strong and compelling characterizations.
I listened to the audiobook, read by Eloise Mignon, who did an outstanding job with the narration.
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 Stars.
August 4, 2023
I thought long and hard about this one. I really wanted to give it more stars as the suspense was killing me and it was so well-written. The problem was: there was several messager excerpts between Lucie and someone else. I know her phone was destroyed but they could surely have accessed her messages some other way? And I also wish one of the POVs hadn’t ‘disappeared’ before we got the reveal. But overall, a book worth reading!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2023
One of those compulsive books you can't put down!
Lauren North, take a bow!
This book goes in so many directions, it's hard to believe the opening scenes when I think back!
I finished it in a day. Unreliable characters, scenes that make you question everything and everyone, and a superb ending.
Fabulous.
Lauren North, take a bow!
This book goes in so many directions, it's hard to believe the opening scenes when I think back!
I finished it in a day. Unreliable characters, scenes that make you question everything and everyone, and a superb ending.
Fabulous.
May 20, 2023
'It's me' says the voice on the other end of the line. It's been thirteen years and I still recognise it. Thirteen years of nothing. Silence. Not even a birthday card. It's time for you to tell the truth. It's life or death. Three hours later, car tyres screech and the air bags release. For a second, nothing happens. There's only stunned silence and a ringing in my ears. I peel open my eyes. What have I done? There's a groan, and I gasp, terrified, at the sight of the man next to me. This is all his fault.
With so many twists and turns, I never knew what or who to believe. who was lying? who was telling the truth? Nobody is who they seemed to be. There were a few surprises along the way. The story starts of strong and just gets stronger as the plot unfolds. I was hooked, I didn't want to put this book down. I liked the past and present timelines making us aware of what had happened thirteen years ago. Told in alternating points of view and nearly every chapter is prefaced with Facebook messages, but who are they really from? And what do they mean? This is a quick and easy book to read.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #LaurenNorth for my ARC of #MyWordAgainstHis in exchange for an honest review.
With so many twists and turns, I never knew what or who to believe. who was lying? who was telling the truth? Nobody is who they seemed to be. There were a few surprises along the way. The story starts of strong and just gets stronger as the plot unfolds. I was hooked, I didn't want to put this book down. I liked the past and present timelines making us aware of what had happened thirteen years ago. Told in alternating points of view and nearly every chapter is prefaced with Facebook messages, but who are they really from? And what do they mean? This is a quick and easy book to read.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #LaurenNorth for my ARC of #MyWordAgainstHis in exchange for an honest review.
May 26, 2023
A gripping page Turner that gives you twists that you didn't see coming. A great thrill of a ride reading this book
A author to look out for.
Thanks to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for an early release of this book.
A author to look out for.
Thanks to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for an early release of this book.
June 4, 2023
Drawn in from the cover. This is a fast paced story told over different timelines by different characters. The true story is unfolded through their narrative which at times is unbelievable and so skillful it made me change my opinions do much as i read. Full of twists and turns i didnt want it to end. The book was better hhan yhe audio for me petsonally. I fidnt want the story to end as i wanted all the loose ends to be tied up but it was enjoyable unbelievable in places but a joy to read. Highly recommended
April 26, 2023
Hold your breath, jaw dropping read? Definitely!
Oh my gosh! More twists in this peppered read than a pretzel. Cohesive control, and then some, stalks the pages until you don’t know who’s what, and where you’re headed.
This is a five star read but in my head I found it hard to come to grips with that because I don’t like the subject matter. Cohesive control is real and creepy. This novel is brimming with both.
If you’re looking for a psychological thriller that turns you inside out and more, this is the read for you. Who is the predator and who is the prey? Hmmm! Find out—maybe!
A Bookouture ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Oh my gosh! More twists in this peppered read than a pretzel. Cohesive control, and then some, stalks the pages until you don’t know who’s what, and where you’re headed.
This is a five star read but in my head I found it hard to come to grips with that because I don’t like the subject matter. Cohesive control is real and creepy. This novel is brimming with both.
If you’re looking for a psychological thriller that turns you inside out and more, this is the read for you. Who is the predator and who is the prey? Hmmm! Find out—maybe!
A Bookouture ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
August 8, 2023
Have I just found a new auto buy author… I think so!
My word against his was an entertaining thriller that kept me on my toes! I love a book with unreliable/untrustworthy characters because it’s like a guessing game for me to dissect who is really lying or telling the truth.
In the authors writer notes she said she loves writing books that has plenty “WHAT” moments and she definitely disappoint! I must of shouted what too many times for me to count! The ending was shocking as well as disappointing (read the book to understand why) but I still enjoyed it nonetheless!
If you are a fan of Freida McFadden but with better writing (Don’t hate me Freida!…I still love you) then Ms North is indeed the author for you!
My word against his was an entertaining thriller that kept me on my toes! I love a book with unreliable/untrustworthy characters because it’s like a guessing game for me to dissect who is really lying or telling the truth.
In the authors writer notes she said she loves writing books that has plenty “WHAT” moments and she definitely disappoint! I must of shouted what too many times for me to count! The ending was shocking as well as disappointing (read the book to understand why) but I still enjoyed it nonetheless!
If you are a fan of Freida McFadden but with better writing (Don’t hate me Freida!…I still love you) then Ms North is indeed the author for you!
May 21, 2023
‘It’s me,’ says the voice on the other end of the line. It’s been thirteen years and I still recognise it. Thirteen years of nothing. Silence. Not even a birthday card. ‘It’s time for you to tell the truth. It’s life or death.’
Woo hoo, once this call is made, many secrets are going to be unveiled. This will provide the reader with what is happening in the present and what happened years ago that is now having deadly consequences. Celia's world is about to explode and many other will feel the effects of this.
Some great characters in the book that, especially that of Celia and Sam and Lucie. I felt that I got to know them quite well and they were very well rounded and developed. As the book progressed it felt like you were able to put yourself in the shoes of Lucie and Sam. Celia is a more difficult one to get to know, their are many secrets she is withholding and she has quite an obscure point of view of life so you realise very early on that disaster is on the horizon, you just have no idea how destructive this will be.
I have to say this was an excellent read and I read it in one afternoon sitting in a hospital room watching my mother who was quite ill and also this is why I am a little behind on my reviews. I would highly recommend this book to others, 4 stars from me.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Woo hoo, once this call is made, many secrets are going to be unveiled. This will provide the reader with what is happening in the present and what happened years ago that is now having deadly consequences. Celia's world is about to explode and many other will feel the effects of this.
Some great characters in the book that, especially that of Celia and Sam and Lucie. I felt that I got to know them quite well and they were very well rounded and developed. As the book progressed it felt like you were able to put yourself in the shoes of Lucie and Sam. Celia is a more difficult one to get to know, their are many secrets she is withholding and she has quite an obscure point of view of life so you realise very early on that disaster is on the horizon, you just have no idea how destructive this will be.
I have to say this was an excellent read and I read it in one afternoon sitting in a hospital room watching my mother who was quite ill and also this is why I am a little behind on my reviews. I would highly recommend this book to others, 4 stars from me.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
June 21, 2023
Don’t start reading if you have anything to do!
I could not put this one down! A brilliant plot that had me needing to know, and needing to know right now. As the Author’s Letter states, “I wanted that moment of WHAT” and there wasn’t just one, but multiple such instances as I read.
The plot is fantastic - interwoven, interlacing and intersecting in such a brilliant way. It really did fly along. The characters are so broken. The power of secrets, deceptions, timing and to some extent fate. What a tangled web we can weave from deceit.
Excellent read!
I could not put this one down! A brilliant plot that had me needing to know, and needing to know right now. As the Author’s Letter states, “I wanted that moment of WHAT” and there wasn’t just one, but multiple such instances as I read.
The plot is fantastic - interwoven, interlacing and intersecting in such a brilliant way. It really did fly along. The characters are so broken. The power of secrets, deceptions, timing and to some extent fate. What a tangled web we can weave from deceit.
Excellent read!
June 28, 2025
An addictive read with unexpected twists.
June 1, 2023
When we stumbled upon My Word Against His on Netgalley, we were immediately drawn to the synopsis, and although we’d never read anything by Lauren North before, we’d heard a lot of good things about her books. Like most of her other works, MWAH is a psychological thriller that revolves around suburban mom and counsellor Celia, who lives a quiet life with her 17-year-old son, Henry. When Lucie, a young woman from Celia’s past, re-enters her life after 13 years, and Celia falls victim to a carjacking by Sam, a young man from Leeds, it threatens to throw her perfect life into shambles.
Our only regret is that we started this book in the middle of the week because we were hooked from the start and couldn’t focus on anything else! MWAH turned out to be a fast-paced domestic thriller with more twists than a pretzel. Written in multiple POVs across shifting timelines, the story unfolds through Celia’s, Lucie’s and Sam’s perspectives of the various events that caused their lives to interweave. North’s decision to limit the characters in the tale was incredibly smart as it enabled her to focus better on each one. Consequently, the characters were brilliantly developed and had more layers than a Cedric Grolet croissant.
North’s storytelling shone in MWAH. Every time we found ourselves inclined to believe a certain character, she threw in a twist that further ensnared us in the convoluted web of half-truths that had been so carefully constructed (this is why we have trust issues!). Moreover, despite the seemingly straightforward narrative, she managed to leave key areas shrouded in mystery, thus building anticipation and piquing our interest until the very end. We especially loved the incorporation of mixed media, including phone calls and messages, which carefully excluded details of the sender and receiver until the final reveal.
While a couple of the twists did border on cliché, and the final one could have used a better build-up, MWAH certainly packed a punch. The morally grey characters and the numerous twists and turns took us on an emotional rollercoaster that had us questioning everyone and everything.
We’d like to thank Netgalley, Bookouture, and the author for the e-ARC of this book.
L&L Rating: 4.5 Stars
TL; DR: Fast-paced domestic thriller with more twists than a pretzel; binge-worthy!
Our only regret is that we started this book in the middle of the week because we were hooked from the start and couldn’t focus on anything else! MWAH turned out to be a fast-paced domestic thriller with more twists than a pretzel. Written in multiple POVs across shifting timelines, the story unfolds through Celia’s, Lucie’s and Sam’s perspectives of the various events that caused their lives to interweave. North’s decision to limit the characters in the tale was incredibly smart as it enabled her to focus better on each one. Consequently, the characters were brilliantly developed and had more layers than a Cedric Grolet croissant.
North’s storytelling shone in MWAH. Every time we found ourselves inclined to believe a certain character, she threw in a twist that further ensnared us in the convoluted web of half-truths that had been so carefully constructed (this is why we have trust issues!). Moreover, despite the seemingly straightforward narrative, she managed to leave key areas shrouded in mystery, thus building anticipation and piquing our interest until the very end. We especially loved the incorporation of mixed media, including phone calls and messages, which carefully excluded details of the sender and receiver until the final reveal.
While a couple of the twists did border on cliché, and the final one could have used a better build-up, MWAH certainly packed a punch. The morally grey characters and the numerous twists and turns took us on an emotional rollercoaster that had us questioning everyone and everything.
We’d like to thank Netgalley, Bookouture, and the author for the e-ARC of this book.
L&L Rating: 4.5 Stars
TL; DR: Fast-paced domestic thriller with more twists than a pretzel; binge-worthy!
June 14, 2023
A thrilling story that’s shocking and twisted you’ll find it very hard to put down.
You will be gripped from the very first chapter.
Celia has a busy life with her son, Henry and husband, Martin.
Whilst at her work she takes teenager Lucie under her wing and brings her into the family.
Lucie is invited in to their home, babysits Henry and loves being with them.
Celia feels like she’s the daughter she has always wanted.
But Lucie doesn’t see what really happens when she’s not there, until she does and it frightens her and she disappears for good.
Thirteen years later, Lucie reaches out, why?
Then when Celia leaves work one day, her car ride is filled with danger and is life changing.
Nothing is ever the same after the night ends…… and what is everyone hiding?
With characters you cannot trust, a plot deeply knotted and an ending that’s unexpected this book will have invested from the word go.
The tension rises at a smart pace, not knowing who, what or where it will take you and before you know it you reached the final few pages.
It will keep you guessing all the way through and with creepy vibes, good writing and great storytelling it will be a favourable reading experience.
A first rate tale from a talented author.
You will be gripped from the very first chapter.
Celia has a busy life with her son, Henry and husband, Martin.
Whilst at her work she takes teenager Lucie under her wing and brings her into the family.
Lucie is invited in to their home, babysits Henry and loves being with them.
Celia feels like she’s the daughter she has always wanted.
But Lucie doesn’t see what really happens when she’s not there, until she does and it frightens her and she disappears for good.
Thirteen years later, Lucie reaches out, why?
Then when Celia leaves work one day, her car ride is filled with danger and is life changing.
Nothing is ever the same after the night ends…… and what is everyone hiding?
With characters you cannot trust, a plot deeply knotted and an ending that’s unexpected this book will have invested from the word go.
The tension rises at a smart pace, not knowing who, what or where it will take you and before you know it you reached the final few pages.
It will keep you guessing all the way through and with creepy vibes, good writing and great storytelling it will be a favourable reading experience.
A first rate tale from a talented author.
May 2, 2023
‘It’s me,’ says the voice on the other end of the line. It’s been thirteen years and I still recognise it. Thirteen years of nothing. Silence. Not even a birthday card. ‘It’s time for you to tell the truth. It’s life or death.’
Three hours later, car tyres screech and the air bags release. For a second, nothing happens. There’s only stunned silence and a ringing in my ears.
I peel open my eyes. What have I done? There’s a groan, and I gasp, terrified, at the sight of the man next to me. This is all his fault.
Fumbling with the door, I half step, half fall into the freezing cold air. I’m shivering all over as my knees land on the tarmac. ‘Help,’ I whisper into the dark, empty street.
Then there’s a flash of blue light. A siren. The police are coming. They will save me, and arrest him. They will see a dangerous man and an innocent victim – a loving mother with a son she cherishes.
They have to – because they can’t know the truth. They can’t discover what happened thirteen years ago and what happened tonight. All those years back, the lies nearly destroyed us. I won’t let that happen today.
'My word against his' starts with Celia. She has a son named Henri and for work she helps people with problems. You keep making jumps in time. There is the storyline of Cecilia. Suddenly a strange boy, Sam, gets into her car and threatens her with a knife. Sam wants her to drive to Leeds.
You also make jumps to the past and there Celia meets thirteen-year-old Lucie at a school. Lucie is neglected by her mother and Celia takes her more and more under her wing. In the present you read again about Cecilia and Sam's car trip. This gets completely out of hand and then suddenly someone died. The question is: what exactly happened and who is the perpetrator?
Through the different characters it becomes increasingly clear how the plot works. It's a fairly quietly constructive story, but there is still a plot twist at the end. I thought it was a pity that you already had a reasonable idea of how the story will go and that made it less exciting for me. It's not a bad story in itself, but I might have expected something more from it.
I want to say a big thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for the review copy!
Rating: 3.5 ⭐️
Three hours later, car tyres screech and the air bags release. For a second, nothing happens. There’s only stunned silence and a ringing in my ears.
I peel open my eyes. What have I done? There’s a groan, and I gasp, terrified, at the sight of the man next to me. This is all his fault.
Fumbling with the door, I half step, half fall into the freezing cold air. I’m shivering all over as my knees land on the tarmac. ‘Help,’ I whisper into the dark, empty street.
Then there’s a flash of blue light. A siren. The police are coming. They will save me, and arrest him. They will see a dangerous man and an innocent victim – a loving mother with a son she cherishes.
They have to – because they can’t know the truth. They can’t discover what happened thirteen years ago and what happened tonight. All those years back, the lies nearly destroyed us. I won’t let that happen today.
'My word against his' starts with Celia. She has a son named Henri and for work she helps people with problems. You keep making jumps in time. There is the storyline of Cecilia. Suddenly a strange boy, Sam, gets into her car and threatens her with a knife. Sam wants her to drive to Leeds.
You also make jumps to the past and there Celia meets thirteen-year-old Lucie at a school. Lucie is neglected by her mother and Celia takes her more and more under her wing. In the present you read again about Cecilia and Sam's car trip. This gets completely out of hand and then suddenly someone died. The question is: what exactly happened and who is the perpetrator?
Through the different characters it becomes increasingly clear how the plot works. It's a fairly quietly constructive story, but there is still a plot twist at the end. I thought it was a pity that you already had a reasonable idea of how the story will go and that made it less exciting for me. It's not a bad story in itself, but I might have expected something more from it.
I want to say a big thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for the review copy!
Rating: 3.5 ⭐️
April 19, 2023
FULL REVIEW WILL BE ON MAY 29.
Celia, Lucie, Sam....what a triangle.
Could anyone else be added to the mix?
MY WORD AGAINST HIS is very tense, and you don't know who to trust, who to like or dislike, who is lying, or who to feel sorry for.
So hold onto your hats folks....surprise after surprise is there as you continue.
Another good one by Ms. North.
The ending will have your jaw dropping!!
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
Celia, Lucie, Sam....what a triangle.
Could anyone else be added to the mix?
MY WORD AGAINST HIS is very tense, and you don't know who to trust, who to like or dislike, who is lying, or who to feel sorry for.
So hold onto your hats folks....surprise after surprise is there as you continue.
Another good one by Ms. North.
The ending will have your jaw dropping!!
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
May 27, 2023
Celia is about to experience empty nest syndrome. In less than a year, her son Henry will be heading to college. She is not looking forward to it. and has been missing his gentle hugs for years. However, the time for Henry to leave is not now, but Celia's life is but to change. A young woman from her past, Lucie, might be reentering her life, and if she does, this will upset the balance of Celia's perfectly ordered life.
In this carefully orchestrated book by Lauren North, secrets and lies prove that they can only be hidden for so long. In fact, the story is told in the present, as well as flashbacks. What is Celia hiding and why does Lucie suddenly contacting her make her feel threatened? To start off with, she hears the words from Lucie, "It's life or death, Celia." Quite naturally, Celia has reason to be concerned after hearing those ominous words. She rushes off to meet Lucie and a cataclysm of events occur.
Twist after twist makes this book impossible to put down. I love a book when you don't know who to trust, and that is exactly what you get with this book. In fact, this book was good from beginning to end, and led to a shocking ending that left me breathless.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
In this carefully orchestrated book by Lauren North, secrets and lies prove that they can only be hidden for so long. In fact, the story is told in the present, as well as flashbacks. What is Celia hiding and why does Lucie suddenly contacting her make her feel threatened? To start off with, she hears the words from Lucie, "It's life or death, Celia." Quite naturally, Celia has reason to be concerned after hearing those ominous words. She rushes off to meet Lucie and a cataclysm of events occur.
Twist after twist makes this book impossible to put down. I love a book when you don't know who to trust, and that is exactly what you get with this book. In fact, this book was good from beginning to end, and led to a shocking ending that left me breathless.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
July 24, 2023
A woman kidnapped, a dead body, a dark secret! At first, I was totally perplexed as to what was happening. Told in multiple points of view and timelines, I initially just felt confused. Then, about midway, it starts to come together and the pace increases. While there were secrets, I felt like I knew what was going on to the point that there wasn’t a real mystery. At first a bit slow, it does speed up quite a bit near the end. However, I didn’t care for the ending. So, I’m not sure if I should read more by this author or not. I probably will…
April 24, 2023
Solid thriller kept me entertained and engaged for the most part. I do feel like too many truth bombs were given early on, I was able to guess the truth really on. The multiple character perspective made the tension in the book really good. I do wish we were guessing the murder along with the police so I do feel like the suspense/ mystery part of the story was a little lackluster.
But it was a solid read overall just not my favorite.
I did like the complexity of the characters no one was truly good or evil. And I’m the end of you are trying to protect someone you love or get to them or their death bed are evil if you’re willing to stop at nothing to make that happen?
But it was a solid read overall just not my favorite.
I did like the complexity of the characters no one was truly good or evil. And I’m the end of you are trying to protect someone you love or get to them or their death bed are evil if you’re willing to stop at nothing to make that happen?
May 10, 2023
Format Read: Ebook from NetGalley
Review: This was a fast-paced entertaining read. Lots of twists and turns. Simple and complex events in one story made it fun to read.
Recommended For: Thriller fans who like nutty characters.
Review: This was a fast-paced entertaining read. Lots of twists and turns. Simple and complex events in one story made it fun to read.
Recommended For: Thriller fans who like nutty characters.
May 22, 2023
★★★★ 4.5 stars
Both of us are lying...one of us is a killer...
Wow! This book was one messed up tale that kept you second guessing all the way through. Just when you thought you knew what was happening, another little tidbit is thrown in to make you question what you thought you knew. And by the end of it, I found it all just a little bit creepy and whole lot chilling.
Celia hasn't heard from Lucie in thirteen years so when she calls her up one afternoon just as she's about to leave work, Celia's perfectly ordered world is thrown into chaos. What does Lucie want? And why has she contacted her after all these years? Why now?
But then things take a dramatic turn when Celia is suddenly carjacked and her abductor demands that she drive him three hours to Leeds whilst holding her at knife-point. For the entire journey, Celia tries to hatch a plan of escape but her abductor is younger and quicker than her. The next thing she knows, a screech of tyres and the point of impact releases the airbags as the knife glides into her side. She fumbles for the door handle and stumbles out, clutching her side before collapsing in a heap on the street.
The police arrive in a kaleidoscope of blue and in the distance a siren wails. The police will come to her rescue. They will save her from the madman who held her at knife-point and arrest him. They will see him for the dangerous criminal that he is and she's just an innocent victim. Before she loses consciousness, her last thought was of her son Henry waiting for her back home in Essex. How worried he must be that she hasn't come home from work...and the pasta that was to be tonight's meal.
The following morning, Celia is discharged from hospital and makes her way back home by train. It's long and arduous but necessary. The police have the man is custody, along with her statement; they'll know what happened now. They have to...because they can't know the truth. Not what happened last night or what happened thirteen years ago. Her life and Henry's were nearly destroyed and Celia won't let that happen again. Everything she has done has been for Henry.
MY WORD AGAINST HIS begins with Celia. It's her story against another's. It's the truth against the lies. It's secrets buried so deep when they threaten to resurface, it's one mother's love for her son above all else. It's about self preservation and protection. It's about everything but the truth. And just when you thought you knew the direction the story was taking along comes a plot twist to throw it right out of the water.
The story is told from multiple perspectives and is in three parts. Each part is very telling and brings with it new reveals. And twists that will leave you going "I never saw that coming". Admittedly, I wasn't a whole lot surprised by the reveals...all but one that I certainly DID NOT see coming. Not in a million years. But all the others made a lot of sense and I kind of figured them out for myself anyway. But then there is that ending when everything comes full circle...and you just get that spine-tingling chill as if someone has walked over your grave. Just wow. I loved that ending.
Overall, MY WORD AGAINST HIS is not at all what I expected but it is a solid thriller that kept me entertained and thoroughly engaged throughout. I can't wait for her next one "She Says She's My Daughter".
I would like to thank #LaurenNorth, #Netgalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #MyWordAgainstHis in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
Both of us are lying...one of us is a killer...
Wow! This book was one messed up tale that kept you second guessing all the way through. Just when you thought you knew what was happening, another little tidbit is thrown in to make you question what you thought you knew. And by the end of it, I found it all just a little bit creepy and whole lot chilling.
Celia hasn't heard from Lucie in thirteen years so when she calls her up one afternoon just as she's about to leave work, Celia's perfectly ordered world is thrown into chaos. What does Lucie want? And why has she contacted her after all these years? Why now?
But then things take a dramatic turn when Celia is suddenly carjacked and her abductor demands that she drive him three hours to Leeds whilst holding her at knife-point. For the entire journey, Celia tries to hatch a plan of escape but her abductor is younger and quicker than her. The next thing she knows, a screech of tyres and the point of impact releases the airbags as the knife glides into her side. She fumbles for the door handle and stumbles out, clutching her side before collapsing in a heap on the street.
The police arrive in a kaleidoscope of blue and in the distance a siren wails. The police will come to her rescue. They will save her from the madman who held her at knife-point and arrest him. They will see him for the dangerous criminal that he is and she's just an innocent victim. Before she loses consciousness, her last thought was of her son Henry waiting for her back home in Essex. How worried he must be that she hasn't come home from work...and the pasta that was to be tonight's meal.
The following morning, Celia is discharged from hospital and makes her way back home by train. It's long and arduous but necessary. The police have the man is custody, along with her statement; they'll know what happened now. They have to...because they can't know the truth. Not what happened last night or what happened thirteen years ago. Her life and Henry's were nearly destroyed and Celia won't let that happen again. Everything she has done has been for Henry.
MY WORD AGAINST HIS begins with Celia. It's her story against another's. It's the truth against the lies. It's secrets buried so deep when they threaten to resurface, it's one mother's love for her son above all else. It's about self preservation and protection. It's about everything but the truth. And just when you thought you knew the direction the story was taking along comes a plot twist to throw it right out of the water.
The story is told from multiple perspectives and is in three parts. Each part is very telling and brings with it new reveals. And twists that will leave you going "I never saw that coming". Admittedly, I wasn't a whole lot surprised by the reveals...all but one that I certainly DID NOT see coming. Not in a million years. But all the others made a lot of sense and I kind of figured them out for myself anyway. But then there is that ending when everything comes full circle...and you just get that spine-tingling chill as if someone has walked over your grave. Just wow. I loved that ending.
Overall, MY WORD AGAINST HIS is not at all what I expected but it is a solid thriller that kept me entertained and thoroughly engaged throughout. I can't wait for her next one "She Says She's My Daughter".
I would like to thank #LaurenNorth, #Netgalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #MyWordAgainstHis in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
April 24, 2023
‘𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐦𝐞,’ 𝐬𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞. 𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐞𝐚���𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈 𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐢𝐭. 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐒𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞. 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐚 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐝. ‘𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐡. 𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐨𝐫 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡.’
I've read many thrillers so far this year that feature overprotective mothers, but the plot of MY WORD AGAINST HIS was wholly original. Told in alternating points of view with dual timelines that all lead to a character's last day, just about every chapter is prefaced with Facebook messages. Who are they from, and what do they mean?
Cecilia, Lucie, and Sam are entangled in a fatal triangle that will have disastrous results, especially when a fourth person is added to the mix. Cecilia is a career advisor who takes lonely grade school aged Lucie under her wing. She not only gives her career advice but she also makes sure she is fed and offers her tips on how to wear her hair. Lucie feels fortunate to have encountered such a kind woman, but after spending time at Cecilia's home with her young son, she is shocked when Cecilia's husband Martin comes home early to find her there and leans in to whisper something in her ear. Lucie feels certain that Martin is abusive, but when he disappears just a few days later, she can't help but wonder about what he told her.
Thirteen years later Celia gets a call from Lucie out of the blue requesting a meeting. As she is on her way to meet Lucie, a boy named Sam jumps into her car, threatens her with a knife, and demands that she drives him to a city three hours away. Cecilia purposely wrecks the car in front of police officers, and they are shocked to find a body in the trunk.
Then things get really wild! I kept changing my opinion on the characters because something was revealed about them with each action. I never would have guessed in a million years where this story was headed. Excellent, twisty thriller that kept me engaged the entire time. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this early read. Publishes May 26, 2023.
I've read many thrillers so far this year that feature overprotective mothers, but the plot of MY WORD AGAINST HIS was wholly original. Told in alternating points of view with dual timelines that all lead to a character's last day, just about every chapter is prefaced with Facebook messages. Who are they from, and what do they mean?
Cecilia, Lucie, and Sam are entangled in a fatal triangle that will have disastrous results, especially when a fourth person is added to the mix. Cecilia is a career advisor who takes lonely grade school aged Lucie under her wing. She not only gives her career advice but she also makes sure she is fed and offers her tips on how to wear her hair. Lucie feels fortunate to have encountered such a kind woman, but after spending time at Cecilia's home with her young son, she is shocked when Cecilia's husband Martin comes home early to find her there and leans in to whisper something in her ear. Lucie feels certain that Martin is abusive, but when he disappears just a few days later, she can't help but wonder about what he told her.
Thirteen years later Celia gets a call from Lucie out of the blue requesting a meeting. As she is on her way to meet Lucie, a boy named Sam jumps into her car, threatens her with a knife, and demands that she drives him to a city three hours away. Cecilia purposely wrecks the car in front of police officers, and they are shocked to find a body in the trunk.
Then things get really wild! I kept changing my opinion on the characters because something was revealed about them with each action. I never would have guessed in a million years where this story was headed. Excellent, twisty thriller that kept me engaged the entire time. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this early read. Publishes May 26, 2023.
April 12, 2023
I’m speechless, literally lost for words and unsure how any written review will do this book justice. I’m going to give it a go but I’m aware I may come across as rambling because this is a book that is just beyond brilliant!
I adore Lauren North, she is a truly wonderful author and every book gets better and better. With that said, the crown needs polishing because once again we’ve been reminded why this QUEEN is so fabulous.
Mrs N really takes us on a trip to the dark side with My Word Against His. Celia is a particularly unlikeable character from quite early on and I’ve enjoyed her unreliability as I’ve read this one. She comes across as a domineering, overbearing mother- but should we judge characters on surface level details? Sam has been a character I’ve really felt for. Although flawed, hun being set up for actions he’s nothing to do with, made me uncomfortable.
North has had my pulse racing, I’ve been tense and on edge reading this one. I was enthralled and completely hooked from the very beginning of this. There is so much within the plot that could be discussed- but I’m remaining spoiler free in this review. North has cleverly brought together intricate details and given a jaw dropping conclusion.
There is nothing to dislike about this gem. It’s written in such a way, you feel as though you are watching the events play out. That is a real talent of this author. North is able to really take her readers on a journey, spin them around with twists and leave them with a jaw dropping element of surprise.
I’ve read every book by this author. I absolutely one million percent recommend them all. However, this is a strong contender for my favourite. The tension and suspense have hooked me from the beginning and this book I’ve devoured in just one sitting.
There is nothing I can say to show how spectacular this book is. I have loved every second of being lost in the pages of this book. I wish I could experience reading this for the first time all over again. There are no negatives to be said about this. Mrs North has stepped up and delivered with another phenomenal masterpiece.
This is a book that I will definitely be recommending to everyone. I have loved everything about this book. It’s definitely a page turner and worthy of all the praise. A masterpiece from a truly wonderful author.
I adore Lauren North, she is a truly wonderful author and every book gets better and better. With that said, the crown needs polishing because once again we’ve been reminded why this QUEEN is so fabulous.
Mrs N really takes us on a trip to the dark side with My Word Against His. Celia is a particularly unlikeable character from quite early on and I’ve enjoyed her unreliability as I’ve read this one. She comes across as a domineering, overbearing mother- but should we judge characters on surface level details? Sam has been a character I’ve really felt for. Although flawed, hun being set up for actions he’s nothing to do with, made me uncomfortable.
North has had my pulse racing, I’ve been tense and on edge reading this one. I was enthralled and completely hooked from the very beginning of this. There is so much within the plot that could be discussed- but I’m remaining spoiler free in this review. North has cleverly brought together intricate details and given a jaw dropping conclusion.
There is nothing to dislike about this gem. It’s written in such a way, you feel as though you are watching the events play out. That is a real talent of this author. North is able to really take her readers on a journey, spin them around with twists and leave them with a jaw dropping element of surprise.
I’ve read every book by this author. I absolutely one million percent recommend them all. However, this is a strong contender for my favourite. The tension and suspense have hooked me from the beginning and this book I’ve devoured in just one sitting.
There is nothing I can say to show how spectacular this book is. I have loved every second of being lost in the pages of this book. I wish I could experience reading this for the first time all over again. There are no negatives to be said about this. Mrs North has stepped up and delivered with another phenomenal masterpiece.
This is a book that I will definitely be recommending to everyone. I have loved everything about this book. It’s definitely a page turner and worthy of all the praise. A masterpiece from a truly wonderful author.
May 31, 2023
I had the opportunity to listen to an audio book that offered a unique reading experience, and I'm grateful to the publishers for providing it. While the book aimed to provide a fresh perspective, it fell short in certain areas. I struggled to connect with the characters and found the timeline of the story unclear. However, as the plot progressed, things started to come together, albeit with a resolution that didn't fully satisfy.
Although it had its shortcomings, such as the lack of relatable characters and an unclear timeline, the book did offer a fresh perspective that some readers might find intriguing. It explored unique ideas and perspectives, which I appreciated. However, if you are looking for a book with well-developed characters and an engrossing plot, you may want to explore other options.
I want to express my gratitude to the publishers for the opportunity to engage with this book. Despite its flaws, it brought something new to the table, and its originality may appeal to readers seeking a departure from conventional storytelling. I extend my thanks to Bolinda Audio for providing me with an advanced listener's copy and the chance to experience their diverse literary works.
Although it had its shortcomings, such as the lack of relatable characters and an unclear timeline, the book did offer a fresh perspective that some readers might find intriguing. It explored unique ideas and perspectives, which I appreciated. However, if you are looking for a book with well-developed characters and an engrossing plot, you may want to explore other options.
I want to express my gratitude to the publishers for the opportunity to engage with this book. Despite its flaws, it brought something new to the table, and its originality may appeal to readers seeking a departure from conventional storytelling. I extend my thanks to Bolinda Audio for providing me with an advanced listener's copy and the chance to experience their diverse literary works.
April 19, 2023
i loved this book so much. it was gripping right from the very start, and i will always highly rate a thriller that truly keeps me guessing the whole way through. every time i thought i knew what was happening, everything would change. there were times where i felt sorry for and empathised with every single character, and other times where i felt so mad at every character, which i think speaks to some great writing and character development from Lauren North. reading this was a great experience and i’d highly recommend!!
June 1, 2023
Single Mum, Celia, is the victim of a carjacking and is desperately worried about her Son, Harry, assuming the man who is holding a knife in her side will kill her when they reach their destination.
Told across past and present timelines, we start to learn about Celia, Harry and Lucie, a young girl who Celia met when she worked as a careers adviser.
Fast paced and twisty, with a large dose of obsession, I was questioning everyone and everything. I had to restrain myself from speeding up the audio as I was so desperate to know the truth!
Without giving any spoilers, let’s just say cohesive control in creepy abundance with some proper “gasp out loud” twists.
Absolutely 5 ⭐️
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.
June 11, 2023
This is probably the most gripping book I have read this year. I needed an outcome, I needed the result. I’m trying to get my head around the whole storyline and ending but Wow!!!
I don’t do spoilers so all I can say is READ IT. I would love other readers feedback please.
I don’t do spoilers so all I can say is READ IT. I would love other readers feedback please.
July 23, 2025
2 .5 stars not rounded up
This book was a solid 3 stars until the very end, until the final twist, which, in my opinion, did not work.
If you ever got lost while hiking, and you had to make a path through the bush and you had to jump over logs, go through heavy vegetation, in order to find the actual path again, then you'll understand how reading this book felt like.
What I mean by that is that you have to really find your way and cut through a lot of unnecessary details and questions and doubts and insecurities and internal chatter in order to get to the actual plot, to find the dialogues that pertain to the mystery at hand.
The book is not bad, it's pretty interesting. There are some good nuggets hidden and revealed from time to time. However, the ending was not my favourite.
This book was a solid 3 stars until the very end, until the final twist, which, in my opinion, did not work.
If you ever got lost while hiking, and you had to make a path through the bush and you had to jump over logs, go through heavy vegetation, in order to find the actual path again, then you'll understand how reading this book felt like.
What I mean by that is that you have to really find your way and cut through a lot of unnecessary details and questions and doubts and insecurities and internal chatter in order to get to the actual plot, to find the dialogues that pertain to the mystery at hand.
The book is not bad, it's pretty interesting. There are some good nuggets hidden and revealed from time to time. However, the ending was not my favourite.
June 11, 2023
My Word Against His is a really great thriller novel. A jaw dropping, page turner, full of twist book! The plot is really good. You thought you knew how it ends but you will never guess whats happens next. The author reveals a lot of secrets before 50% of the book and you thought you knew everything but not until the big revelation at the end. Just wow! Kudos to the author! I really enjoyed reading this book. I want more of this!! 4.5/5
Thank you NetGalley and publisher for this ARC. Its bit late, I really forgot to update my books and read it after the publishing date.
Thank you NetGalley and publisher for this ARC. Its bit late, I really forgot to update my books and read it after the publishing date.
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