What do you think?
Rate this book
Where They Lie
An immersive, literary thriller about an ambitious young female journalist whose investigation of a long missing actress will take her through the misty streets and tangled underworld of 1960s Dublin—and force her to confront the dark, long buried secrets of her own past.
Some stories demand to be told. They keep coming back, echoing down through the decades, until they find a teller . . .
Dublin, 1943. Actress Julia Bridges disappears. She was last seen entering the house of Gloria Fitzpatrick, who is later put on trial for the murder of a woman whose abortion she facilitated. But it’s never proved that Gloria had a hand in Julia’s death—and Julia’s body has never been found. Gloria, however, is sentenced to life in an institution for the criminally insane, where she’s found dead a few years later from an apparent suicide, and the truth of what happened to Julia Bridges dies with her.
Until . . .
Dublin, 1968. Nicoletta Sarto is an ambitious junior reporter for the Irish Sentinel when the bones of Julia Bridges are discovered in the garden of a house on the outskirts of the city. Drawn into investigating the 25-year-old mystery of Julia’s disappearance and her link to the notorious Gloria Fitzpatrick, Nicoletta becomes immersed in the tangled underworld of the illegal abortion industry, stirring up long-buried secrets from her own past.
A beautifully atmospheric, timely thriller, Where They Lie uses a murder mystery as a lens to focus on the long struggle of women fighting to achieve autonomy and succeed in a man’s world.
Some stories demand to be told. They keep coming back, echoing down through the decades, until they find a teller . . .
Dublin, 1943. Actress Julia Bridges disappears. She was last seen entering the house of Gloria Fitzpatrick, who is later put on trial for the murder of a woman whose abortion she facilitated. But it’s never proved that Gloria had a hand in Julia’s death—and Julia’s body has never been found. Gloria, however, is sentenced to life in an institution for the criminally insane, where she’s found dead a few years later from an apparent suicide, and the truth of what happened to Julia Bridges dies with her.
Until . . .
Dublin, 1968. Nicoletta Sarto is an ambitious junior reporter for the Irish Sentinel when the bones of Julia Bridges are discovered in the garden of a house on the outskirts of the city. Drawn into investigating the 25-year-old mystery of Julia’s disappearance and her link to the notorious Gloria Fitzpatrick, Nicoletta becomes immersed in the tangled underworld of the illegal abortion industry, stirring up long-buried secrets from her own past.
A beautifully atmospheric, timely thriller, Where They Lie uses a murder mystery as a lens to focus on the long struggle of women fighting to achieve autonomy and succeed in a man’s world.
272 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2024
116 people are currently reading
8829 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 194 reviews
March 13, 2024
In 1943, the city of Dublin sees the disturbing disappearance of Julia Bridges. An actress who was last seen entering the premises where former midwife Gloria Fitzpatrick worked and lived, it was rumored for years that she had been responsible for Julia vanishing. So when, several years later, a neighbor makes a damning accusation that lands her in the frame for the murder of yet another young woman, Gloria is quickly arrested, tried, and convicted for performing a botched abortion that led to her death. After all, this wasn’t the first time she’d been suspected of murder.
While standing in the dock, however, Gloria is given a last minute reprieve and finds herself sentenced to an institution for the criminally insane instead of being hanged. So when a witness comes forward after an appeal for new information into Julia’s still unsolved disappearance is made, his case cracking assertion pushes the police to rush to her side in the hopes that Gloria can finally provide some answers. Before they get her to talk, however, she dies, supposedly by her own hand, behind the walls of the asylum. It seems that the last person who could reveal the much sought after truth has taken it to her grave.
Twenty-five years later, however, newbie investigative journalist Nicoletta Sarto is the first on the scene when a skeleton is discovered in a suburban garden just miles from Dublin. Quickly determined to be the elusive Julia Bridges, Nicoletta begins to dig into the facts. Parsing old interview transcripts and questioning old witnesses anew, she starts to see connections that have been covered up for the last two and a half decades. Before she knows it, though, Nicoletta is pulled into the gritty world of illegal abortions and long-buried secrets—all of which connect to Nicoletta herself more than she’d like to admit. What happened to Julia all of those years ago? And how did it stay buried for so many years?
What to say about Where They Lie? A twisty, poignant, and atmospheric plot, what it lacked in driving suspense, it easily made up for in social commentary and evocative prose. From its likeable female main character to the slow burn reveal, the pages were rife with what it meant to be an Irish woman in 1968. More than anything, however, these pages dragged me deeply into the story as it meandered between the past and the present while the much needed truth worked itself free.
The biggest selling point to this stellar debut, though, was easily Nicoletta herself. A strong, opinionated woman who was determined to dig into the cold case surrounding actress Julia Bridges, she was easily ahead of her time. And even as her personal life intertwined with Julia’s disappearance, she still refused to give up. More importantly, however, both Nicoletta and Julia’s struggles scraped away the cobwebs of what it must have been like to be a woman back when both the church and society wanted to silence and repress. Timely and revealing, it made me wonder how much things really have changed.
As for the storyline, this genre crossing title felt like either a very long, slow burn thriller or a magically crafted tale of suspense. Adding to the mix was an edge of literary and historical fiction, both of which meant for a captivating plot that propelled me into the story. As I approached the end of the book, however, I watched the page count dwindle without a satisfactory conclusion. Or so I thought. After all, right when I thought I was going to be sadly disappointed, a pulse-pounding climax arrived on the scene, which was wrapped up with an equally soul-satisfying conclusion that hit all the right chords.
In the end, while this wasn’t exactly what I was expecting, I was still utterly spellbound from the very first word. With sharp writing that drew every scene as if it were being acted out on a screen and delicious plot charging drama, I was easily won over hook, line, and sinker. So as long as you don’t go into this startling historical exposé with expectations of an action-packed thriller, I can easily recommend it with two enthusiastic thumbs up. Rating of 4.5 stars.
Thank you to Claire Coughlan and Harper Perennial for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: February 20, 2024
Scroll down for my potentially plot spoiling trigger list.
Trigger warning: suicide, accidental pregnancy, miscarriage, abortion, mention of: death of a loved one, infidelity
While standing in the dock, however, Gloria is given a last minute reprieve and finds herself sentenced to an institution for the criminally insane instead of being hanged. So when a witness comes forward after an appeal for new information into Julia’s still unsolved disappearance is made, his case cracking assertion pushes the police to rush to her side in the hopes that Gloria can finally provide some answers. Before they get her to talk, however, she dies, supposedly by her own hand, behind the walls of the asylum. It seems that the last person who could reveal the much sought after truth has taken it to her grave.
Twenty-five years later, however, newbie investigative journalist Nicoletta Sarto is the first on the scene when a skeleton is discovered in a suburban garden just miles from Dublin. Quickly determined to be the elusive Julia Bridges, Nicoletta begins to dig into the facts. Parsing old interview transcripts and questioning old witnesses anew, she starts to see connections that have been covered up for the last two and a half decades. Before she knows it, though, Nicoletta is pulled into the gritty world of illegal abortions and long-buried secrets—all of which connect to Nicoletta herself more than she’d like to admit. What happened to Julia all of those years ago? And how did it stay buried for so many years?
What to say about Where They Lie? A twisty, poignant, and atmospheric plot, what it lacked in driving suspense, it easily made up for in social commentary and evocative prose. From its likeable female main character to the slow burn reveal, the pages were rife with what it meant to be an Irish woman in 1968. More than anything, however, these pages dragged me deeply into the story as it meandered between the past and the present while the much needed truth worked itself free.
The biggest selling point to this stellar debut, though, was easily Nicoletta herself. A strong, opinionated woman who was determined to dig into the cold case surrounding actress Julia Bridges, she was easily ahead of her time. And even as her personal life intertwined with Julia’s disappearance, she still refused to give up. More importantly, however, both Nicoletta and Julia’s struggles scraped away the cobwebs of what it must have been like to be a woman back when both the church and society wanted to silence and repress. Timely and revealing, it made me wonder how much things really have changed.
As for the storyline, this genre crossing title felt like either a very long, slow burn thriller or a magically crafted tale of suspense. Adding to the mix was an edge of literary and historical fiction, both of which meant for a captivating plot that propelled me into the story. As I approached the end of the book, however, I watched the page count dwindle without a satisfactory conclusion. Or so I thought. After all, right when I thought I was going to be sadly disappointed, a pulse-pounding climax arrived on the scene, which was wrapped up with an equally soul-satisfying conclusion that hit all the right chords.
In the end, while this wasn’t exactly what I was expecting, I was still utterly spellbound from the very first word. With sharp writing that drew every scene as if it were being acted out on a screen and delicious plot charging drama, I was easily won over hook, line, and sinker. So as long as you don’t go into this startling historical exposé with expectations of an action-packed thriller, I can easily recommend it with two enthusiastic thumbs up. Rating of 4.5 stars.
Thank you to Claire Coughlan and Harper Perennial for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: February 20, 2024
Scroll down for my potentially plot spoiling trigger list.
Trigger warning: suicide, accidental pregnancy, miscarriage, abortion, mention of: death of a loved one, infidelity
February 20, 2024
I love historical fiction novels that are a quick read! Especially when it comes to murd3r mysteries? There's something satisfying about being able to flip through a book quickly and have a satisfying ending - even if it's not exactly the one that you thought it would be.
THOUGHTS:
- Although dealing with potentially emotionally difficult topics, I think the idea that the book is set back in the late 60's makes it not so hard to read. Not as 'close' to the hearts of many who would hold these topics close to their chests in the modern era.
- If there were to be a book two in this series of The Lady Reporter - I would definitely read it!
- I got a definite sense of the scene - cold, foggy Dublin in the late 60s. A perfect winter read!
NOTES:
- CWs: Infidelity, ab0rtions, miscarriages and more are discussed
**Thank you to @bibliolifestyle & @harperperennial for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR 🖤
Find Me On Instagram 🦋 || More Bookish Thoughts & Reviews Here 🖤
THOUGHTS:
- Although dealing with potentially emotionally difficult topics, I think the idea that the book is set back in the late 60's makes it not so hard to read. Not as 'close' to the hearts of many who would hold these topics close to their chests in the modern era.
- If there were to be a book two in this series of The Lady Reporter - I would definitely read it!
- I got a definite sense of the scene - cold, foggy Dublin in the late 60s. A perfect winter read!
NOTES:
- CWs: Infidelity, ab0rtions, miscarriages and more are discussed
**Thank you to @bibliolifestyle & @harperperennial for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR 🖤
Find Me On Instagram 🦋 || More Bookish Thoughts & Reviews Here 🖤
January 22, 2024
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: Feb. 20, 2024
Nicoletta Sarto is a journalist in Dublin in 1968. Desperate to get ahead in a man’s world, she has her eyes set on advancing her career, becoming the lead journalist for the female-focused section of the newspaper “The Irish Sentinel”. When the dead body of actress Julia Bridges, who was supposedly killed by the notorious Gloria Fitzpatrick over twenty-five years ago, is found buried in a local garden, Nicoletta believes she has finally found the story that will earn her the journalist position she so desires. But there is more to it than meets the eye, and Nicoletta is not only uncovering long-buried secrets about Julia and Gloria, but soon, Nicoletta’s own past is thrust into the spotlight.
Claire Coughlan’s debut novel, “Where They Lie” is historical fiction at its finest. With heavy issues such as religion, sexism, feminism and abortion, “Lie” is unsettling and engaging.
Nicoletta narrates the novel in her modern day (the 1960s), although there are a few snippets from Gloria (in the form of a letter) that help to deliver the novel’s ending. Nicoletta is admirable, trying to make a name for herself in a career that earns her nothing but derision- including from her own parents. Desperate to show the world just how powerful words can be, Nicoletta sticks to her guns and I couldn’t help but cheer for the flawed, less-than-perfect protagonist.
There are many interconnecting plot lines in this novel, which can be a bit hard to keep track of (parents, biological and not, single women and their ‘unaccepted’ offspring, married men and their elicit affairs, all connected to each other in important ways). Somehow, Coughlan manages to tie all the parties together and the relationships do seem to work, once you sort through them.
I initially felt like there was large pieces of Nicoletta’s past that were missing from the plot, as she hinted at them throughout without providing full details upfront, and I kept waiting to hear more. Just when I thought I was going to have to accept defeat, Coughlan lands a plot point with a powerful bang and more and more of Nicoletta’s story comes together.
“Where They Lie” is atmospheric and timely and it hits all the right boxes. I look forward to more from Coughlan, and I can’t wait to see what develops.
Expected publication date: Feb. 20, 2024
Nicoletta Sarto is a journalist in Dublin in 1968. Desperate to get ahead in a man’s world, she has her eyes set on advancing her career, becoming the lead journalist for the female-focused section of the newspaper “The Irish Sentinel”. When the dead body of actress Julia Bridges, who was supposedly killed by the notorious Gloria Fitzpatrick over twenty-five years ago, is found buried in a local garden, Nicoletta believes she has finally found the story that will earn her the journalist position she so desires. But there is more to it than meets the eye, and Nicoletta is not only uncovering long-buried secrets about Julia and Gloria, but soon, Nicoletta’s own past is thrust into the spotlight.
Claire Coughlan’s debut novel, “Where They Lie” is historical fiction at its finest. With heavy issues such as religion, sexism, feminism and abortion, “Lie” is unsettling and engaging.
Nicoletta narrates the novel in her modern day (the 1960s), although there are a few snippets from Gloria (in the form of a letter) that help to deliver the novel’s ending. Nicoletta is admirable, trying to make a name for herself in a career that earns her nothing but derision- including from her own parents. Desperate to show the world just how powerful words can be, Nicoletta sticks to her guns and I couldn’t help but cheer for the flawed, less-than-perfect protagonist.
There are many interconnecting plot lines in this novel, which can be a bit hard to keep track of (parents, biological and not, single women and their ‘unaccepted’ offspring, married men and their elicit affairs, all connected to each other in important ways). Somehow, Coughlan manages to tie all the parties together and the relationships do seem to work, once you sort through them.
I initially felt like there was large pieces of Nicoletta’s past that were missing from the plot, as she hinted at them throughout without providing full details upfront, and I kept waiting to hear more. Just when I thought I was going to have to accept defeat, Coughlan lands a plot point with a powerful bang and more and more of Nicoletta’s story comes together.
“Where They Lie” is atmospheric and timely and it hits all the right boxes. I look forward to more from Coughlan, and I can’t wait to see what develops.
February 24, 2024
Where did Julia Bridges go?
How did she just disappear?
Did Gloria Fitzpatrick a midwife who was accused of murdering a woman during an abortion have anything to do with her disappearance twenty-five years ago?
Then Julia’s body is found and identified by her wedding ring.
Nicoletta Sarto a young journalist that has a secret of her own hears about the body and makes it her mission to find the answers.
She investigates with a vengeance because she wants to get the head journalist job.
She undercovers many overlooked clues and information and information about her past she wasn’t aware of.
I enjoyed Nicoletta and was hoping for the best for her in her investigation and personal life.
The book just got better and better as you turned the pages.
WHERE THEY LIE will keep your interest because of the great storyline, the descriptive writing, trying to figure out the mystery, and trying to figure out what the title means.
Does the title mean the lies people tell or where bodies lie?
A truly enjoyable book and a wonderful debut that will be for those who like to solve cold-case mysteries and a likeable main character. 4/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
How did she just disappear?
Did Gloria Fitzpatrick a midwife who was accused of murdering a woman during an abortion have anything to do with her disappearance twenty-five years ago?
Then Julia’s body is found and identified by her wedding ring.
Nicoletta Sarto a young journalist that has a secret of her own hears about the body and makes it her mission to find the answers.
She investigates with a vengeance because she wants to get the head journalist job.
She undercovers many overlooked clues and information and information about her past she wasn’t aware of.
I enjoyed Nicoletta and was hoping for the best for her in her investigation and personal life.
The book just got better and better as you turned the pages.
WHERE THEY LIE will keep your interest because of the great storyline, the descriptive writing, trying to figure out the mystery, and trying to figure out what the title means.
Does the title mean the lies people tell or where bodies lie?
A truly enjoyable book and a wonderful debut that will be for those who like to solve cold-case mysteries and a likeable main character. 4/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
January 17, 2024
A promising debut novel from Irish writer Claire Coughlan, Where They Lie is historical fiction set in 1960s Dublin in the murky world of illegal abortions.
Nicoletta Sarto is a reporter working the Christmas Eve shift at Irish newspaper The Sentinel, when a police report comes in that a woman’s body has been found 25 years after she went missing, believed to have been murdered when she procured an illegal abortion. As Nicoletta begins to investigate, doggedly pursuing all angles, she ends up finding out more than she bargained for.
This is a twisty, suspenseful, atmospheric tale that ended up being just a little bit too convoluted. In an effort to tie everything up neatly, the ending felt too drawn out. Having said that, I enjoyed the evocative setting of the 1960s and liked the protagonist - I could imagine her in a follow up novel investigating crimes with her colleague (and lover) Barney. 3.5/5 ⭐️
Many thanks to the publisher for the #gifted copy of this book. As always this is an honest review. Where They Lie will be published on 1 February.
Nicoletta Sarto is a reporter working the Christmas Eve shift at Irish newspaper The Sentinel, when a police report comes in that a woman’s body has been found 25 years after she went missing, believed to have been murdered when she procured an illegal abortion. As Nicoletta begins to investigate, doggedly pursuing all angles, she ends up finding out more than she bargained for.
This is a twisty, suspenseful, atmospheric tale that ended up being just a little bit too convoluted. In an effort to tie everything up neatly, the ending felt too drawn out. Having said that, I enjoyed the evocative setting of the 1960s and liked the protagonist - I could imagine her in a follow up novel investigating crimes with her colleague (and lover) Barney. 3.5/5 ⭐️
Many thanks to the publisher for the #gifted copy of this book. As always this is an honest review. Where They Lie will be published on 1 February.
February 22, 2024
Where They Lie is the best kind of mystery. It jumps from clue to clue, immediately throwing the reader into hunt. The protagonist, a female journalist in the 60s, is looking for answers on a cold case as well as for herself. Nicoletta is relentless and driven, trying to make a name for herself. I absolutely loved her character and how non stop she is. She would be an excellent police officer, but journalist fits the story.
The book tackles women’s rights, and our struggle with the patriarchy. Abortion is a heavy topic, and the writer managed it with grace. At a time when midwives were a kitchen magician, women had nowhere else to turn to with their unwanted pregnancies. The women who needed the help and the women who helped them, were equally persecuted. It was a horrible time for women, the scariest. I pray we don’t have to live through it again.
This could easily be the start to a series. I’d love to see more of Nicoletta. Claire Coughlan has hooked me with intrigue, setting and characters. I will be reading her books again.
The book tackles women’s rights, and our struggle with the patriarchy. Abortion is a heavy topic, and the writer managed it with grace. At a time when midwives were a kitchen magician, women had nowhere else to turn to with their unwanted pregnancies. The women who needed the help and the women who helped them, were equally persecuted. It was a horrible time for women, the scariest. I pray we don’t have to live through it again.
This could easily be the start to a series. I’d love to see more of Nicoletta. Claire Coughlan has hooked me with intrigue, setting and characters. I will be reading her books again.
August 27, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
I found myself really pulled into the plot of this book. The characters and their back stories are just as compelling as the core mystery they're out to solve. One thing I never like is when too much time is spent away from the main plot and moving it forward. The author never did this - time was spent exploring back story for the characters, but never at the expense of pace of the main plot.
The book is beautifully written, describing the locations in Ireland in depth and colour that it makes you feel like you're immersed in the story and standing right there with the characters.
There's more than one twist in this book and one of them really came out of left field. I wasn't expecting to be surprised when reading this. It almost lulls you into a false sense of security. But the revelations were really satisfying.
A truly enjoyable mystery with a great cast of characters. Can't wait to read more from this author.
I found myself really pulled into the plot of this book. The characters and their back stories are just as compelling as the core mystery they're out to solve. One thing I never like is when too much time is spent away from the main plot and moving it forward. The author never did this - time was spent exploring back story for the characters, but never at the expense of pace of the main plot.
The book is beautifully written, describing the locations in Ireland in depth and colour that it makes you feel like you're immersed in the story and standing right there with the characters.
There's more than one twist in this book and one of them really came out of left field. I wasn't expecting to be surprised when reading this. It almost lulls you into a false sense of security. But the revelations were really satisfying.
A truly enjoyable mystery with a great cast of characters. Can't wait to read more from this author.
March 3, 2024
Where They Lie* by Claire Coughlan is a pegged as “an immersive, literary thriller debut” and, while some of that is true, I found it nigh on impossible to get immersed in the story.
Set in 1968 Dublin, Nicoletta Sarto is an ambitious young female reporter, keen to prove herself in the male dominated world of journalism. Nicoletta is covering the graveyard shift when a call comes in that has the potential to be the story of her career. The body of actress Julia Bridges has been found after she went missing some 20 years prior and, as Nicoletta runs with the story, it takes her on a wild, dangerous journey into the past that (somewhat) uncovers the illegal abortion industry and abuses of unmarried mothers by the State.
I read a lot of thrillers and a lot of historical fiction. I think Irish thriller/crime writers are currently at the forefront of the genre but I found it impossible to get into this story. The plot twists felt very mundane and the character arcs veered abruptly from being very one note to massively over developed in the space of two or three pages, with the kind of revelations that would set any human reeling but they just kind of carried on despite it all. There were so many historical touchpoints that felt overlooked and that would have given much more depth and colour to the Ireland of the time and the fictional case of Julia Bridge’s death.
An Addendum
I’ve never done this before but I’ve been thinking about this book since I read it. I so wanted to love it - historical! Irish! thriller! Heck that’s a surefire 5inead winning combination! - but struggled to put my finger on why I didn’t and, with the benefit of some time, space and good ol’ critical thinking, here’s an addendum to my review with some thoughts&feelings™️.
I think it’s because it was set in a past that doesn’t feel authentic to Ireland (either then or now). It’s as if the Ireland Nicoletta inhabits was written through a Mad Men-tinted lens, with fur trimmed skirt suits and men who drink at lunch and chew on unlit cigars. It all gave off the sepia-toned hue of Humphrey Bogart as Sam Spade in The Maltese Falcon and, while that may work for international audiences with a twee view of The Emerald Isle, for this Irish reader, it felt like a caricature of an Ireland that, at the time, was in turmoil with the Troubles and was on the cusp of significant economic mismanagement by successive Fianna Fáil governments. And that’s not even mentioning the place - or lack thereof - of women in society - in 1968, the Marriage Bar hadn’t been removed yet and neither the Employment Equality nor Family Planning Acts had come into force (and wouldn’t for nearly a decade). I feel that was more than could have been explored with a female protagonist of the time that would have added depth, colour and atmosphere to both the characters AND the case but that were sadly either underdeveloped or entirely overlooked. Perhaps I’m overthinking it but there were kernels of greatness there that were left...unpopped 🍿
Set in 1968 Dublin, Nicoletta Sarto is an ambitious young female reporter, keen to prove herself in the male dominated world of journalism. Nicoletta is covering the graveyard shift when a call comes in that has the potential to be the story of her career. The body of actress Julia Bridges has been found after she went missing some 20 years prior and, as Nicoletta runs with the story, it takes her on a wild, dangerous journey into the past that (somewhat) uncovers the illegal abortion industry and abuses of unmarried mothers by the State.
I read a lot of thrillers and a lot of historical fiction. I think Irish thriller/crime writers are currently at the forefront of the genre but I found it impossible to get into this story. The plot twists felt very mundane and the character arcs veered abruptly from being very one note to massively over developed in the space of two or three pages, with the kind of revelations that would set any human reeling but they just kind of carried on despite it all. There were so many historical touchpoints that felt overlooked and that would have given much more depth and colour to the Ireland of the time and the fictional case of Julia Bridge’s death.
An Addendum
I’ve never done this before but I’ve been thinking about this book since I read it. I so wanted to love it - historical! Irish! thriller! Heck that’s a surefire 5inead winning combination! - but struggled to put my finger on why I didn’t and, with the benefit of some time, space and good ol’ critical thinking, here’s an addendum to my review with some thoughts&feelings™️.
I think it’s because it was set in a past that doesn’t feel authentic to Ireland (either then or now). It’s as if the Ireland Nicoletta inhabits was written through a Mad Men-tinted lens, with fur trimmed skirt suits and men who drink at lunch and chew on unlit cigars. It all gave off the sepia-toned hue of Humphrey Bogart as Sam Spade in The Maltese Falcon and, while that may work for international audiences with a twee view of The Emerald Isle, for this Irish reader, it felt like a caricature of an Ireland that, at the time, was in turmoil with the Troubles and was on the cusp of significant economic mismanagement by successive Fianna Fáil governments. And that’s not even mentioning the place - or lack thereof - of women in society - in 1968, the Marriage Bar hadn’t been removed yet and neither the Employment Equality nor Family Planning Acts had come into force (and wouldn’t for nearly a decade). I feel that was more than could have been explored with a female protagonist of the time that would have added depth, colour and atmosphere to both the characters AND the case but that were sadly either underdeveloped or entirely overlooked. Perhaps I’m overthinking it but there were kernels of greatness there that were left...unpopped 🍿
March 12, 2024
I liked this thriller set in 1960s Dublin and the plot of a journalist investigating the case of a missing actress was entertaining. The audio was good, it did get a bit slow for me but I liked the ending and thought it was an enjoyable read overall. Thank you to Bibliolifestyle and Harper for the free copy to review.
March 12, 2024
I liked that this mystery had our main character as a newspaper reporter. I think that Nicoletta was able to get more personal details from everyone she talked to than your typical amateur sleuth.
Nicolletta was definitely at a job in a man's world, but taking on a story about Julia Bridges death took her back to learning about Gloria who had been suspected. Gloria has already been locked up due to her dealings with abortions. This book handled the present and future colliding very nicely. Nicolletta found herself to be a key piece to unraveling the truth. I enjoyed hearing about her connection and discovering her past along with her.
The part I didn't like about this book was the ending. I felt like the story was flowing nicely and then, bam, an abrupt stop. I'm hoping this was planned due to a future book, but I left it wanting more detail. This changed my overall opinion of the whole book.
Thank you to Harper Perennial and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
Nicolletta was definitely at a job in a man's world, but taking on a story about Julia Bridges death took her back to learning about Gloria who had been suspected. Gloria has already been locked up due to her dealings with abortions. This book handled the present and future colliding very nicely. Nicolletta found herself to be a key piece to unraveling the truth. I enjoyed hearing about her connection and discovering her past along with her.
The part I didn't like about this book was the ending. I felt like the story was flowing nicely and then, bam, an abrupt stop. I'm hoping this was planned due to a future book, but I left it wanting more detail. This changed my overall opinion of the whole book.
Thank you to Harper Perennial and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
May 25, 2024
I'm 3 hours in, and I just can't get interested in this.
Audiobook
Aoife McMahon - Narrator
Duration: 10:42:49
Abandoned at 3:19:58 Chapter 10
Audiobook
Aoife McMahon - Narrator
Duration: 10:42:49
Abandoned at 3:19:58 Chapter 10
February 28, 2024
Always one to love discovering a debut novel, this one certainly delivered!
"Where They Lie" tells the story of Dublin journalist Nicoletta Sarto. In 1968 she is working for the Irish Sentinel. She is ambitious and tenacious in equal measure, and she longs to be the paper's women's editor.
The narrative takes place during the last two weeks of December. On Christmas Eve a skeleton is discovered in a Dublin back garden and Nicoletta has her first ever lead story. The bones are thought to be those of a young actress, Julia Bridges, who vanished in 1943. It was believed that she was murdered by Gloria Fitzpatrick, a notorious midwife who was the first woman in the history of the state to get the death penalty. This was later commuted to life in prison on the grounds of insanity.
Flashbacks to 1943 and the last days of Julia's life along with some insight into the life of Gloria Fitzpatrick gradually answer the questions that explain how Julia's skeleton came to be in the back garden of one of the city's wealthy jewellers.
Nicoletta comes to realize that she is much closer to this story than she could ever have imagined...
The title "Where They Lie" was perfectly chosen. The word 'lie' having two meanings, it could apply either way here.
The writing was impressive. "Nicoletta looks at her mother as though for the first time. Disappointment has eaten into her youth and discolored her like a jaundice."
With themes of unwed pregnancy, corruption, class inequality, and illegal adoptions, this novel is sure to be enjoyed by many. I would definitely read another book by this talented author.
"Where They Lie" tells the story of Dublin journalist Nicoletta Sarto. In 1968 she is working for the Irish Sentinel. She is ambitious and tenacious in equal measure, and she longs to be the paper's women's editor.
The narrative takes place during the last two weeks of December. On Christmas Eve a skeleton is discovered in a Dublin back garden and Nicoletta has her first ever lead story. The bones are thought to be those of a young actress, Julia Bridges, who vanished in 1943. It was believed that she was murdered by Gloria Fitzpatrick, a notorious midwife who was the first woman in the history of the state to get the death penalty. This was later commuted to life in prison on the grounds of insanity.
Flashbacks to 1943 and the last days of Julia's life along with some insight into the life of Gloria Fitzpatrick gradually answer the questions that explain how Julia's skeleton came to be in the back garden of one of the city's wealthy jewellers.
Nicoletta comes to realize that she is much closer to this story than she could ever have imagined...
The title "Where They Lie" was perfectly chosen. The word 'lie' having two meanings, it could apply either way here.
The writing was impressive. "Nicoletta looks at her mother as though for the first time. Disappointment has eaten into her youth and discolored her like a jaundice."
With themes of unwed pregnancy, corruption, class inequality, and illegal adoptions, this novel is sure to be enjoyed by many. I would definitely read another book by this talented author.
February 21, 2024
This is the kind of story that is very atmospheric with a geographical and historical context that matters very much.
Set in Ireland in the late sixties, it is told from the perspective of Nicoletta Sarto, an ambitious junior reporter who's vying for an editor position that is soon coming up. Her personal life is quite unsettled and she's determined to focus on her career. When the remains of theatre actress Julia Bridges are found in the garden of an affluent jeweller, 25 years after she disappeared, Nic takes a lead on investigating and writing about the story that takes her back to much maligned midwife Gloria Fitzpatrick, who was reviled and then convicted of another murder. The connections she makes start unraveling truths that hit much closer than she could have thought possible.
This is more in the nature of a literary and character oriented thriller that portrays the ethos of the time perfectly. What it meant to be a woman who wanted to make her way up, particularly in a domain considered a man's world, is very much in focus. The lack of choice available to women when it came to their own bodies especially in matters of pregnancy, that forced them to often resort to unsafe procedures, is very unsettling. Nicoletta's tenacious pursuit of the truth is very refreshing for the time this tale is set in.
Overall, this is a combination of a traditional mystery with the slow burn build up of a literary novel and I like both of those so I enjoyed it.
Because of the theme, there are mentions of miscarriage which could be triggering.
Set in Ireland in the late sixties, it is told from the perspective of Nicoletta Sarto, an ambitious junior reporter who's vying for an editor position that is soon coming up. Her personal life is quite unsettled and she's determined to focus on her career. When the remains of theatre actress Julia Bridges are found in the garden of an affluent jeweller, 25 years after she disappeared, Nic takes a lead on investigating and writing about the story that takes her back to much maligned midwife Gloria Fitzpatrick, who was reviled and then convicted of another murder. The connections she makes start unraveling truths that hit much closer than she could have thought possible.
This is more in the nature of a literary and character oriented thriller that portrays the ethos of the time perfectly. What it meant to be a woman who wanted to make her way up, particularly in a domain considered a man's world, is very much in focus. The lack of choice available to women when it came to their own bodies especially in matters of pregnancy, that forced them to often resort to unsafe procedures, is very unsettling. Nicoletta's tenacious pursuit of the truth is very refreshing for the time this tale is set in.
Overall, this is a combination of a traditional mystery with the slow burn build up of a literary novel and I like both of those so I enjoyed it.
Because of the theme, there are mentions of miscarriage which could be triggering.
January 18, 2024
This was such an immersive story. I felt completely drawn in by the characters as much as I was by the story itself. The author provided plenty of backstory to each character so that I felt I knew them well enough to get a picture of each one in my head.
There were multiple small twists within the story. However, the whopper comes towards the end.. I had a slight inkling, but I was never 100% certain I was on the right path.
The writing was superb, and the whole book turned out to be an enjoyable mystery to get lost in.
Thank you to netgalley and the author for the opportunity to read this book.
There were multiple small twists within the story. However, the whopper comes towards the end.. I had a slight inkling, but I was never 100% certain I was on the right path.
The writing was superb, and the whole book turned out to be an enjoyable mystery to get lost in.
Thank you to netgalley and the author for the opportunity to read this book.
February 28, 2024
In Claire Coughlan historical fiction, ”Where They Lie,” (a clever pun of a title) about unsolved cold-case murders and missing persons mysteries, newspaper reporter Nicoletta assigned to investigate quickly learns that people with secrets are good at keeping confidences, and they’re also less likely to snoop through other people’s ‘dirty laundry.’
Obstinate in her pursuit for closure and tenacious in her quest for justice for the missing and murdered victims, Nicoletta proves both her detective skills and journalistic abilities in a male-dominated mid-century Ireland.
JoyReaderGirl1 graciously thanks NetGalley, Author Claire Coughlan, and HarperCollins Publishers for this advanced reader’s copy (ARC) for review.
Obstinate in her pursuit for closure and tenacious in her quest for justice for the missing and murdered victims, Nicoletta proves both her detective skills and journalistic abilities in a male-dominated mid-century Ireland.
JoyReaderGirl1 graciously thanks NetGalley, Author Claire Coughlan, and HarperCollins Publishers for this advanced reader’s copy (ARC) for review.
January 28, 2024
I’m going to keep this review short & sweet.
I was kindly sent a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
In all honesty, I don’t think I was the intended market audience for this read. The writing style, I couldn’t jel with it and didn’t find myself able to connect with the characters. The book was slow paced and found myself wanting to skim it to get by sooner.
The plot twists weren’t anything dramatic, which led to my dissatisfaction when reading.
Again, this is nothing on the author, it is just my personal experience on the book due to my preferences. I know some people who I’d recommend this to and would love it.
I was kindly sent a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
In all honesty, I don’t think I was the intended market audience for this read. The writing style, I couldn’t jel with it and didn’t find myself able to connect with the characters. The book was slow paced and found myself wanting to skim it to get by sooner.
The plot twists weren’t anything dramatic, which led to my dissatisfaction when reading.
Again, this is nothing on the author, it is just my personal experience on the book due to my preferences. I know some people who I’d recommend this to and would love it.
June 24, 2024
**3.5 stars**
Where They Lie is a beautifully atmospheric historical murder mystery debut by Claire Coughlan. Set in Dublin in 1968, the novel follows junior reporter Nicoletta Sarto as she investigates the discovery of bones belonging to long-disappeared actress Julia Bridges. As Nicoletta delves deeper, she uncovers a link between Julia and convicted murderer Gloria Fitzpatrick, the last woman sentenced to hang in Ireland in 1943. Gloria's sentence is later commuted to life in a mental institution, where she allegedly committed suicide, taking all her secrets with her.
The book skilfully intertwines two timelines, revealing a seedy side of Dublin that includes illegal abortions and forced adoptions. Nicoletta's determination to get the story, despite the "boys club" atmosphere of the time, is refreshing. Her character is well-developed, with a backstory that adds depth and complexity. The exploration of Ireland's history with women's rights and religion, framed within a murder mystery, offers a fascinating glimpse into the struggles women faced during this period.
Despite the engaging start and meandering middle, the novel's ending felt rushed, detracting from my overall enjoyment. The resolution seemed abrupt and left some threads untied, which was disappointing given the buildup.
Despite this, Where They Lie is an engaging read that successfully combines mystery with historical and social commentary. This debut shows great promise, and I look forward to more from this author.
Where They Lie is a beautifully atmospheric historical murder mystery debut by Claire Coughlan. Set in Dublin in 1968, the novel follows junior reporter Nicoletta Sarto as she investigates the discovery of bones belonging to long-disappeared actress Julia Bridges. As Nicoletta delves deeper, she uncovers a link between Julia and convicted murderer Gloria Fitzpatrick, the last woman sentenced to hang in Ireland in 1943. Gloria's sentence is later commuted to life in a mental institution, where she allegedly committed suicide, taking all her secrets with her.
The book skilfully intertwines two timelines, revealing a seedy side of Dublin that includes illegal abortions and forced adoptions. Nicoletta's determination to get the story, despite the "boys club" atmosphere of the time, is refreshing. Her character is well-developed, with a backstory that adds depth and complexity. The exploration of Ireland's history with women's rights and religion, framed within a murder mystery, offers a fascinating glimpse into the struggles women faced during this period.
Despite the engaging start and meandering middle, the novel's ending felt rushed, detracting from my overall enjoyment. The resolution seemed abrupt and left some threads untied, which was disappointing given the buildup.
Despite this, Where They Lie is an engaging read that successfully combines mystery with historical and social commentary. This debut shows great promise, and I look forward to more from this author.
February 12, 2024
Set in 1960s Dublin the story follows a young investigative journalist hopeful, Nicoletta Sarto, as she digs into the story of a disappearance of a famous actress, Julia Bridges, in 1940s. Another woman, Gloria Fitzpatrick, was accused of her murder and died in the institution. The investigation takes Nicoletta into the world of the illegal abortions, and as she’s having to deal with a personal crisis, there are some secrets coming to life that can shake her life as well.
I enjoyed reading this debut novel, in particular the tense and evocative atmosphere that the author paints throughout the book. It is sometimes slow going, but the mysteries surrounded Julia and Gloria are definitely worth the wait, and Nicoletta story is beautifully interwoven within the narrative. Abortion is a subject sensitive to handle and this was done with a tact and compassion. I hope that this is going to be the beginning of thee series.
I enjoyed reading this debut novel, in particular the tense and evocative atmosphere that the author paints throughout the book. It is sometimes slow going, but the mysteries surrounded Julia and Gloria are definitely worth the wait, and Nicoletta story is beautifully interwoven within the narrative. Abortion is a subject sensitive to handle and this was done with a tact and compassion. I hope that this is going to be the beginning of thee series.
February 18, 2024
Dublin, 1968. The remains have been discovered of actress Julia Bridges, who mysteriously disappeared in 1943. The local Garda inspector is convinced that Julia died at the hands of Gloria Fitzpatrick, who went on trial for facilitating the abortion of another woman.
Journalist Nicoletta Sarto resolves to solve the mystery of what happened to Julia and gradually unravels a complicated story.
Nicoletta is a determined and memorable heroine, grief stricken from a family tragedy, and more or less estranged from her mother.
Very evocative of the 1960s. It's like stepping back in time. Beautifully written and nuanced.
March 23, 2024
3.5⭐️⭐️⭐️
✨Slow paced. Thriller . Sets in two scenarios . Abortion ⚠️
✨Julia is missing. It was a big scandal as she was an actress. The last sighting of her is entering a house which Gloria owns.
Up until they went to Dublin, a reporter was eager on what happen to the Irish actress .
✨this story has a lot of twist but yet again it’s predictable. Has a tiny bit of romance but not as visible.
✨overall , it’s a good read for a debut.
✨Claire, Thankyou and it was a pleasure and would love to read more .
✨Thankyou #netgalley for the opportunity to read this arc for a honest review.
❤️shaye.reads
✨Slow paced. Thriller . Sets in two scenarios . Abortion ⚠️
✨Julia is missing. It was a big scandal as she was an actress. The last sighting of her is entering a house which Gloria owns.
Up until they went to Dublin, a reporter was eager on what happen to the Irish actress .
✨this story has a lot of twist but yet again it’s predictable. Has a tiny bit of romance but not as visible.
✨overall , it’s a good read for a debut.
✨Claire, Thankyou and it was a pleasure and would love to read more .
✨Thankyou #netgalley for the opportunity to read this arc for a honest review.
❤️shaye.reads
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2023
Set in Dublin in 1968 Nicoletta Sarto, an eager young reporter, gets involved in a case when the bones of a woman missing since 1943 are found in a garden on the outskirts of the City.
From the start it’s apparent Nicoletta is hiding secrets, not only in her personal life
but also in a possible family connection to a woman who may have been responsible for the death of the missing woman.
It’s atmospheric and the author does a good job of portraying the misogyny towards women of that era, both socially and in the workplace, also the lengths desperate women had to go to to procure an abortion.
That said good crime fiction has me holding my breath particularly towards the final denouncement, sadly I just didn’t get it with this book, possibly because I didn’t feel invested enough in the character of Nicoletta, I found her irritating especially her relationship with Barney which I felt detracted from the main storyline.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for an ARC
From the start it’s apparent Nicoletta is hiding secrets, not only in her personal life
but also in a possible family connection to a woman who may have been responsible for the death of the missing woman.
It’s atmospheric and the author does a good job of portraying the misogyny towards women of that era, both socially and in the workplace, also the lengths desperate women had to go to to procure an abortion.
That said good crime fiction has me holding my breath particularly towards the final denouncement, sadly I just didn’t get it with this book, possibly because I didn’t feel invested enough in the character of Nicoletta, I found her irritating especially her relationship with Barney which I felt detracted from the main storyline.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for an ARC
January 31, 2024
Where They Lie is the debut novel from Claire Coughlan. Set in Dublin in the 1960s, reporter Nicoletta Sarto is a junior reporter for a newspaper, The Sentinel. Skeletal remains are found in the garden of a house, believed to be those of actress Julia Bridges, who went missing over 25 years earlier. Julia was last seen with Gloria Fitzpatrick. Gloria was later put on trial for the murder of a woman whose abortion she facilitated. She died a few years later in an institution and so it appears the truth of what happened to Julia Bridges went with her. With Julia now found, the investigation begins anew. And Nicoletta is front and centre in the investigation to get to the truth of what happened.
As a reader I felt completely immersed in the story and setting. The characters were well drawn and engaging. Overall a great read, albeit a little slow paced at points. I really hope we will see more from Nicoletta Sarto in the future.
With thanks to the author, Netgalley and publisher Simon & Schuster for the ARC. Out 1 February.
As a reader I felt completely immersed in the story and setting. The characters were well drawn and engaging. Overall a great read, albeit a little slow paced at points. I really hope we will see more from Nicoletta Sarto in the future.
With thanks to the author, Netgalley and publisher Simon & Schuster for the ARC. Out 1 February.
November 1, 2024
A historical mystery told through the perspective of a female reporter. There are a lot of triggers for miscarriage, abortion and pregnancy.
I loved the way the story was told through the investigative reporting process of following each lead. The pace was quick and the mystery interesting.
I enjoyed the characters and the path the story took but felt it wrapped up very quickly. I would have loved to see more of the reactions to the resolution of the investigation.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I loved the way the story was told through the investigative reporting process of following each lead. The pace was quick and the mystery interesting.
I enjoyed the characters and the path the story took but felt it wrapped up very quickly. I would have loved to see more of the reactions to the resolution of the investigation.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
February 29, 2024
I chose to read Where They Lie because it had a historical slant and a touch of 'woman in a man's world vibe.
I'm so glad I did, it was a fresh and one of my favourite reads of recent times. We meet the brilliant junior reporter Nicoletta Sarto, trying hard to find a story and clearly having tales of her own just out of view which are as interesting as the main plot.
Nicoletta is covering the discovery of a body, believed to be that of Julia Bridges who had disappeared 205 years previously. Where she was found and what she was found with cause the perceived wisdom of what happened to the actress to be examined more carefully.
This atmospheric novel pulled me into the storyline, my heart in my mouth knowing how immensely difficult some of the issues that are covered must have been for women at this time (both 1943 and 1968) I was especially grateful that the author left her readers space to absorb and reflect.
Whilst this is an intense read, was also deeply satisfying. I can't wait to see what comes next for this debut author.
I'm so glad I did, it was a fresh and one of my favourite reads of recent times. We meet the brilliant junior reporter Nicoletta Sarto, trying hard to find a story and clearly having tales of her own just out of view which are as interesting as the main plot.
Nicoletta is covering the discovery of a body, believed to be that of Julia Bridges who had disappeared 205 years previously. Where she was found and what she was found with cause the perceived wisdom of what happened to the actress to be examined more carefully.
This atmospheric novel pulled me into the storyline, my heart in my mouth knowing how immensely difficult some of the issues that are covered must have been for women at this time (both 1943 and 1968) I was especially grateful that the author left her readers space to absorb and reflect.
Whilst this is an intense read, was also deeply satisfying. I can't wait to see what comes next for this debut author.
December 31, 2023
I really liked this! Full disclosure it was a Goodreads giveaway but it really sucked me in- lots of twists and turns, a main character who is interesting but not horrible (rare these days…) and the story was very engaging. There were perhaps too many characters and no one was really developed as well as the main character but otherwise I would read again and do recommend for sure!
February 2, 2024
This is a debut novel by Clair Coughlan.
The story is set in Dublin in the 1960s.
The story was very engaging.
I didnt know what happened till the end of the novel some twists also in it.
A good read.
The story is set in Dublin in the 1960s.
The story was very engaging.
I didnt know what happened till the end of the novel some twists also in it.
A good read.
April 2, 2024
Where They Lie is a solid debut which surprises you and makes you think. Claire Coughlan is an author that makes you think and her work is exciting and new and I cannot wait to read more from her.
February 8, 2024
Where They Lie is a brilliant debut from Coughlan and I'm keeping everything crossed that this is going to be a new series featuring Nicoletta Sarto.
The backdrop of 1960's Ireland and the backstreet abortion trade made for an atmospheric, immersive reading experience and with the authors descriptive writing so easy to visualise the scenes.
It's moderately paced, has some great characters and it all ties up nicely at the end.
The backdrop of 1960's Ireland and the backstreet abortion trade made for an atmospheric, immersive reading experience and with the authors descriptive writing so easy to visualise the scenes.
It's moderately paced, has some great characters and it all ties up nicely at the end.
May 25, 2024
I couldn’t get into this. It felt repetitive and slow. Parts of the story were intriguing but it didn’t do it for me.
November 23, 2023
A story with enough twists to keep it interesting. The historical settings - 1943 and 1968- were interesting and set the context for the murder mystery. I didn’t find the characters particularly engaging or likeable apart from the main protagonist.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 194 reviews