What do you think?
Rate this book
Briana Song #1
Garden Of Lies
Accident or Murder? Truth or Lies? Nothing is what it seems in the Garden District of New Orleans. When a renowned real estate tycoon with deep pockets and even deeper connections is found hanging in his Garden District mansion, the FBI is pulled in to find out what happened and fast! My first case in the New Orleans field office after transferring and I got partnered with the rule follower, Supervisory Special Agent James Buckley.
Sometimes you must bend the rules and he would learn the hard way as we discovered there had been multiple attempts on the tycoon’s life, but no one wants to cooperate with our investigation to find out the truth.
Why? What are they hiding?
Sifting through evidence and interviewing everyone in his life lead us down a twisted path of lies and obstacles that almost cost our careers.
With this high-profile case, the pressure was on to find out what REALLY happened in the Garden of Lies.
Sometimes you must bend the rules and he would learn the hard way as we discovered there had been multiple attempts on the tycoon’s life, but no one wants to cooperate with our investigation to find out the truth.
Why? What are they hiding?
Sifting through evidence and interviewing everyone in his life lead us down a twisted path of lies and obstacles that almost cost our careers.
With this high-profile case, the pressure was on to find out what REALLY happened in the Garden of Lies.
85 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 19, 2023
27 people are currently reading
88 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 56 reviews
April 24, 2024
This was my first read by this author and I enjoyed it. It was a free download courtesy of the author’s Facebook page (thank you ☺️). It follows detectives on solving a murder of a prominent New Orleans man. If you enjoy murder mysteries- I’d recommend this book. It was a quick, short, entertaining read ☺️❤️
January 12, 2024
This was not good. Writing is very wooden, clinical and dry. Story does not flow well.
It is what I would expect from a highschool student trying to complete a short writing assignment or something found on wattpad
It is what I would expect from a highschool student trying to complete a short writing assignment or something found on wattpad
July 25, 2023
"Garden of Lies" by Jemma Stark is an intense and captivating thriller that immediately grips readers with its vivid and dark imagery. The opening scene sets the tone for the entire narrative, immersing the audience into a world of violence, pain, and haunting memories. The protagonist, Briana Song, is a complex and intriguing character with a haunted past that drives her to seek solace in the brutal world of fighting. Her internal struggles and the need to forget the horrors she has witnessed create a compelling emotional backdrop for the story.
The author's descriptive writing style is commendable, painting a vivid picture of the protagonist's surroundings, emotions, and thoughts. The imagery of blood, bruises, and pain lingers throughout the narrative, creating a palpable sense of unease and anticipation. This level of detail enhances the story's dark atmosphere, making it feel raw and intense.
The plot unfolds with a mysterious death in the opulent setting of the Garden District, involving a real estate tycoon, Thomas McLaine. The introduction of Special Agent James Buckley adds another layer of complexity to the story, with the promise of a compelling partnership and the potential for intriguing character dynamics. The mix of high-profile investigation and psychological introspection adds depth to the narrative, creating a gripping blend of crime investigation and character-driven storytelling.
One of the strengths of "Garden of Lies" is the skillful pacing. The author knows when to slow down and delve into the protagonist's inner turmoil, and when to quicken the pace with action and investigation, keeping readers engaged and invested in the story. The introduction of the victim's wife, Rachel McLaine, adds emotional depth to the case and further fuels the mystery surrounding Thomas McLaine's death.
The narrative leaves readers with a strong desire to know more about the characters and the events that unfolded in the past. The author skillfully weaves in intriguing details and hints at a deeper backstory for the protagonist, promising a rich and complex character arc to be explored in the remainder of the novel.
To conclude, "Garden of Lies" is a stellar thriller that boasts captivating writing, intense imagery, and a gripping plot. Jemma Stark has crafted a compelling protagonist in Briana Song and introduced a promising investigative partnership with Special Agent James Buckley. The story's mix of high-profile crime investigation and psychological exploration makes for a compelling read that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the rest of the novel. Fans of thrilling mysteries and complex characters will undoubtedly find "Garden of Lies" a riveting and satisfying read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The author's descriptive writing style is commendable, painting a vivid picture of the protagonist's surroundings, emotions, and thoughts. The imagery of blood, bruises, and pain lingers throughout the narrative, creating a palpable sense of unease and anticipation. This level of detail enhances the story's dark atmosphere, making it feel raw and intense.
The plot unfolds with a mysterious death in the opulent setting of the Garden District, involving a real estate tycoon, Thomas McLaine. The introduction of Special Agent James Buckley adds another layer of complexity to the story, with the promise of a compelling partnership and the potential for intriguing character dynamics. The mix of high-profile investigation and psychological introspection adds depth to the narrative, creating a gripping blend of crime investigation and character-driven storytelling.
One of the strengths of "Garden of Lies" is the skillful pacing. The author knows when to slow down and delve into the protagonist's inner turmoil, and when to quicken the pace with action and investigation, keeping readers engaged and invested in the story. The introduction of the victim's wife, Rachel McLaine, adds emotional depth to the case and further fuels the mystery surrounding Thomas McLaine's death.
The narrative leaves readers with a strong desire to know more about the characters and the events that unfolded in the past. The author skillfully weaves in intriguing details and hints at a deeper backstory for the protagonist, promising a rich and complex character arc to be explored in the remainder of the novel.
To conclude, "Garden of Lies" is a stellar thriller that boasts captivating writing, intense imagery, and a gripping plot. Jemma Stark has crafted a compelling protagonist in Briana Song and introduced a promising investigative partnership with Special Agent James Buckley. The story's mix of high-profile crime investigation and psychological exploration makes for a compelling read that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the rest of the novel. Fans of thrilling mysteries and complex characters will undoubtedly find "Garden of Lies" a riveting and satisfying read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 1, 2025
Neither Hot Nor Cold!! Here's the deal...
So, it was an interesting story, couple of surprises/twists, relatable characters, and some vivid details ... however, just not enough!! It was like this novel was intended to be a 6-hour-read (average) thriller novel; but for some reason the author did a 2-hour-read summary, skipping several chapters, leaving out lots of details and descriptions, and any in-depth character issues to be resolved; such that it was too brief for the story it was trying to tell. I was interested and engaged; but left unsatisfied, in the end --- NOT just wanting more, as in: another volume; but in that this story was not developed and written to it's potential!
Maybe there was a reason for writing a light novelette rather than a full novel; but I'm not sure I'll stick around for future novels in this series (??) unless it's obvious that they are more developed and finished!!! YMMV!
I guess if you're just looking for a short story you won't have to think too much about (for a bus ride; waiting in jury duty; etc) this might be the thing; it's just not got the substance one would expect of a mystery/thriller novel!
So, it was an interesting story, couple of surprises/twists, relatable characters, and some vivid details ... however, just not enough!! It was like this novel was intended to be a 6-hour-read (average) thriller novel; but for some reason the author did a 2-hour-read summary, skipping several chapters, leaving out lots of details and descriptions, and any in-depth character issues to be resolved; such that it was too brief for the story it was trying to tell. I was interested and engaged; but left unsatisfied, in the end --- NOT just wanting more, as in: another volume; but in that this story was not developed and written to it's potential!
Maybe there was a reason for writing a light novelette rather than a full novel; but I'm not sure I'll stick around for future novels in this series (??) unless it's obvious that they are more developed and finished!!! YMMV!
I guess if you're just looking for a short story you won't have to think too much about (for a bus ride; waiting in jury duty; etc) this might be the thing; it's just not got the substance one would expect of a mystery/thriller novel!
August 1, 2023
Very entertaining FBI thriller!
Garden of Lies introduces Briana Song as an FBI Agent, as well as her origin story from the military years and the trauma she endured. Jemma Stark does a very good job of not just creating a cohesive story, but a very good job developing three strong characters – Briana, Buck & Margo, each of whom seem to have character flaws, but as a team the make up for each other’s shortcomings or eccentricities.
There were times while I was reading, I wasn’t sure if I was reading a hard-core murder mystery or a cozy mystery or a well-done mashup of the two. Either way this story is well worth reading if you enjoy murder mysteries with interesting characters and no obvious cues to solving the crime until it is time for them to become known.
The only negative thing I have to say about this story is I wish I had read Garden of Lies before g The Mardi Gras Murders. Knowing Briana’s background would have made The Mardi Gras Murders a much more enjoyable story.
Garden of Lies introduces Briana Song as an FBI Agent, as well as her origin story from the military years and the trauma she endured. Jemma Stark does a very good job of not just creating a cohesive story, but a very good job developing three strong characters – Briana, Buck & Margo, each of whom seem to have character flaws, but as a team the make up for each other’s shortcomings or eccentricities.
There were times while I was reading, I wasn’t sure if I was reading a hard-core murder mystery or a cozy mystery or a well-done mashup of the two. Either way this story is well worth reading if you enjoy murder mysteries with interesting characters and no obvious cues to solving the crime until it is time for them to become known.
The only negative thing I have to say about this story is I wish I had read Garden of Lies before g The Mardi Gras Murders. Knowing Briana’s background would have made The Mardi Gras Murders a much more enjoyable story.
October 29, 2023
Accident or Murder? Truth or Lies? Nothing is what it seems in the Garden District of New Orleans.
When a renowned real estate tycoon is found hanging in his lavish Garden District mansion, all signs point to suicide. But the governor isn't convinced and requests the FBI's help. Assigned to the high-profile case are Special Agents Briana Song and James Buckley—but it's Briana's first investigation since transferring to the New Orleans office.
The author Jemma Stark creates three major characters, Briana, Buck & Margo, each with strong points and flaws, which make up a well balanced team. The story is good and keeps you on your toes. Fast paced, dead ends and a well described setting of New Orleans, reminiscences of the Axeman, but no obvious clues and ends with a good twist.
I received a free copy of this book and leave my review voluntarily.
When a renowned real estate tycoon is found hanging in his lavish Garden District mansion, all signs point to suicide. But the governor isn't convinced and requests the FBI's help. Assigned to the high-profile case are Special Agents Briana Song and James Buckley—but it's Briana's first investigation since transferring to the New Orleans office.
The author Jemma Stark creates three major characters, Briana, Buck & Margo, each with strong points and flaws, which make up a well balanced team. The story is good and keeps you on your toes. Fast paced, dead ends and a well described setting of New Orleans, reminiscences of the Axeman, but no obvious clues and ends with a good twist.
I received a free copy of this book and leave my review voluntarily.
September 13, 2025
Garden of Lies is a fun, fast-paced mystery set against the moody backdrop of New Orleans’ Garden District. Special Agent Briana Song makes a strong impression as a newcomer determined to prove herself, and the dynamic between her and seasoned partner James Buckley adds energy to the investigation. The mix of high-society secrets, political pressure, and hidden betrayals kept the pages turning, and the Southern setting added just the right amount of atmosphere.
What stood out most was Briana herself—she’s sharp, fearless, and more than capable of holding her own in a city full of shadows and deception. The mystery unfolds with plenty of twists, and while the case kept me guessing, it’s Briana’s grit that really carried the story. By the end, I found myself already looking forward to seeing what she takes on next in the series.
What stood out most was Briana herself—she’s sharp, fearless, and more than capable of holding her own in a city full of shadows and deception. The mystery unfolds with plenty of twists, and while the case kept me guessing, it’s Briana’s grit that really carried the story. By the end, I found myself already looking forward to seeing what she takes on next in the series.
July 9, 2023
When a wealthy real estate tycoon is found dead, the FBI Director calls in her top team to investigate, due to the sensitive and high impact nature of the case. Special Agents James Buckley, or Buck, and Briana Song take over the case of investigating the death of Thomas McLaine. The coroner finds the case to be murder, intended to look like a suicide, and there are a number of possible suspects. Recent payouts to buy would a partner, the firing of his assistant and possible changes to his will, which the lawyer refuses to elaborate until the reading of the will, complicate the case, along with an attack on Briana! A fast paced and exciting read! I received an ARC from the author and write this review entirely voluntarily.
September 9, 2023
The author writes an extraordinary thrilling story with well developed characters with all their flaws. Brianna Song, FBI agent is transferred to New Orleans and is assigned a by the book partner, Special Agent James Buckley to investigate the murder of a wealthy real estate magnate, Thomas McLaine. With so many twists and turns, secrets and attacks on Brianna, will they be able to figure the murder out? We are also given some psychological insight into the characters as Buckley is nearing retirement and Brianna has some baggage of her own. This is an edge of your seat thriller that takes you on a ride right to the great ending! I really like Brianna and look forward to more. I received and ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
October 21, 2023
Thriller that will have you wondering who is the bad guy!
I loved this story of how Briana started at the New Orleans FBI office, I only wish I had read it before The Mardi Gras Murders. It explains more about how Briana got to New Orleans from being in the military. This part tells how she deals with transforming from military life to civilian FBI.
This will have you questioning why Briana does some of the things she does, like hiding an item found at a crime scene. Does this have anything to do with other situations? Her and her partner Buck do well, and he explains things to her to help her transform to non-military form and reactions.
Thank you, Jemma Stark for a great story! I received a complimenatry copy of this story, and this is my honest review.
I loved this story of how Briana started at the New Orleans FBI office, I only wish I had read it before The Mardi Gras Murders. It explains more about how Briana got to New Orleans from being in the military. This part tells how she deals with transforming from military life to civilian FBI.
This will have you questioning why Briana does some of the things she does, like hiding an item found at a crime scene. Does this have anything to do with other situations? Her and her partner Buck do well, and he explains things to her to help her transform to non-military form and reactions.
Thank you, Jemma Stark for a great story! I received a complimenatry copy of this story, and this is my honest review.
July 28, 2023
Garden of Lies - My first read by Stark and I was disappointed. The dialogue was not right for the military or police. I reckon Stark wanted her readers to know what the agents were going to do so the dialog was rigged for simplicity.
An example is why interview the widow again when she has an alibi that may check out. Huh, may check out? It's been two days since the murder. Military example is Stephen's verbal "signal", which was equivalent to hollering, "Hey y'all, turn around so we can shoot yous guys!".
A quick, short, average written read with the killer confessing. Source: Booksprout. 3*
An example is why interview the widow again when she has an alibi that may check out. Huh, may check out? It's been two days since the murder. Military example is Stephen's verbal "signal", which was equivalent to hollering, "Hey y'all, turn around so we can shoot yous guys!".
A quick, short, average written read with the killer confessing. Source: Booksprout. 3*
February 24, 2024
This was a great read. Full of mystery, intrigue and murder. Amother new author for me and I am hooked. The story was well written and kept me guessing the whole way through.
Briana Song has left the military life and is now transferred to the FBI office in New Orleans. Her partner, special agent James Buckley helps her in the adjustment. Then they get their first case of who killed the towns tycoon. When their boss wants a woman arrested, Briana thinks he has the wrong person so she sets out to catch the real killer. This will keep you on the edge of your seat and guessing the whole way through. I can't wait to read more from this series.
Briana Song has left the military life and is now transferred to the FBI office in New Orleans. Her partner, special agent James Buckley helps her in the adjustment. Then they get their first case of who killed the towns tycoon. When their boss wants a woman arrested, Briana thinks he has the wrong person so she sets out to catch the real killer. This will keep you on the edge of your seat and guessing the whole way through. I can't wait to read more from this series.
February 15, 2025
This story was enjoyable. The main characters were Briana Song and James Buckley.
Briana Song is an FBI special agent who has been transferred to the New Orleans office. Her new partner is James Buckley. They have been assigned to a case that is a little bit confusing. But they are determined to solve it.
There was action, suspense, and adventure throughout. It had a few giggles within. It was fun trying to solve the mystery within.
I received a complimentary copy via Booksprout. This is my honest, unbiased opinion.
Briana Song is an FBI special agent who has been transferred to the New Orleans office. Her new partner is James Buckley. They have been assigned to a case that is a little bit confusing. But they are determined to solve it.
There was action, suspense, and adventure throughout. It had a few giggles within. It was fun trying to solve the mystery within.
I received a complimentary copy via Booksprout. This is my honest, unbiased opinion.
June 28, 2023
When a man is found hanging in the Garden District in New Orleans no one seems to upset by his death. We were told he was a ruthless man who got what he deserved but is that the truth. My partner and I are tasked with trying to solve the case and find out what really happened. The trail of evidence leads us down a trail of lies, deception and mystery.
July 21, 2023
Investigation mind wants the truth with my snacks and suspects list ready to go. This got my full attention 100. Reading from the characters' perspective gives great insights in a person's mindset. Briana's an interesting character for me to get to know better and I'm team Briana 100. I will be adding all Briana's books to my book collection of favorites. Iler.
July 27, 2023
When a rich man is found dead in his study nothing is as it seems. This is my first Briana Song book and I really enjoyed it. This was a multilayered thriller with plenty of twists and turns. I really enjoyed the characters! I look forward to reading more books in this series. I highly recommend this book and this author!
August 6, 2023
The case is to prove whether the cause of death is suicide or murder. FBI agent Song works with her new partner to investigate. Alongside the case, Song has flashbacks of her previous war partner and the two mix. A lot of elements are combined into this short mystery story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 7, 2023
Excellent opening book to an exciting series. Agent Song whose personality is wonderfully balanced by her partner,Buck, who is near retirement. Song is able to hold her own in a physical fight, plus she’s not afraid to confront the system when she senses injustice. This promises to be a hard to put down series.
June 21, 2024
The first question was whether the death was murder or suicide. Then... since no-one liked the victim, which person is most likely to be the doer.
Agent Briana Song doesn't care about following the rules and so she has problems dealing with her new partner. I'm not really in favour of a know-it-all.
Agent Briana Song doesn't care about following the rules and so she has problems dealing with her new partner. I'm not really in favour of a know-it-all.
March 6, 2025
I was so caught up with Bri that the book ended too soon for me as I did not let her go. I was confused at first, and thought that she was a man who willingly entered the ring to get the crap beaten out of her, but I soon discovered that she was tough due to her experience in the military and now I am a HUGE fan of her!
March 31, 2025
Jemma Stark delivers a fast-paced, twist-filled thriller that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. With compelling characters, sharp storytelling, and an immersive setting, the novel strikes a perfect balance between suspense and intrigue. Fans of FBI procedurals and crime thrillers will find plenty to enjoy in this gripping read.
April 19, 2025
This was an easy book to read. Some good twists and turns. Some interesting plotting in the story.
Since it is book one of hopefully a nice long series, I will be expecting to see a more detailed and beefier story from this author. I hope she will be releasing it soon 🔜! As I really like the work, and have a box of 5 star awards waiting to hand out to her 😆
Michael
Since it is book one of hopefully a nice long series, I will be expecting to see a more detailed and beefier story from this author. I hope she will be releasing it soon 🔜! As I really like the work, and have a box of 5 star awards waiting to hand out to her 😆
Michael
July 22, 2023
Well written and composed story. Good plot full of action twists and turns. Well created characters and relationships among them. Good reality.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 31, 2023
Novella length murder mystery with revenge by family members. Newly transferred FBI agent works to solve motives and actions that resulted in the murder of father-billionaire. What role might illegitimate children play? Characters are interesting. Novel grabs attention.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 31, 2023
Wow this is an awesome murder mystery this is a great Thriller this is book 1 great storyline enjoyable novel.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2023
It was wonderful to meet Briana, Buck, and Margo! This mystery had a couple of surprise twists & kept me wondering who was the culprit until the very end!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 12, 2023
Entertaining book centering on new FBI agent Bri Song. Ms. Stark is developing an interesting cast of characters, and serves up a decent murder mystery for Special Agent Song and her fellow FBI agents to solve. I look forward to reading more books in this series.
September 20, 2023
This is the first book I've read by Jemma Stark, and it will not be my last! The capturing of these great characters in a storyline with plot twists and getting to know them, I couldn't put this book down!
October 10, 2023
As I am reading this story, I can't help but wonder why Agent Song hid evidence from her partner? She was warned by the director when he approved her transfer, she really should have been on the up and up, especially being the newbie. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
February 13, 2024
This definitely is the start to a promising new series. Loved it. I do wish there had been a little more to it though. It definitely felt slightly rushed with little to no actual mystery and intrigue. It was just a little too open and shut for a crime mystery novel.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews