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Will Trent #12
This is Why We Lied
The next thrilling suspense featuring Will Trent and Sara Linton from Karin Slaughter, New York Times bestselling author of Pretty Girls and After That Night!
Everyone here is a liar, but only one of us is a killer…
A secluded cabin retreat
For GBI investigator Will Trent and medical examiner Sara Linton, McAlpine Lodge seems like the ideal getaway to celebrate their honeymoon. Set on a gorgeous, off-the-grid mountaintop property, it’s the perfect place to unplug and reconnect. Until a bone-chilling scream cuts through the night.
A murderer in their midst
Mercy McAlpine, the manager of the Lodge, is dead. With a vicious storm raging and the one access road to the property washed out, the murderer must be someone on the mountain. But as Will and Sara investigate the McAlpine family and the other guests, they realize that everyone here is lying….Lying about their past. Lying to their family. Lying to themselves.
Who killed Mercy McAlpine?
It soon becomes clear that normal rules don’t apply at McAlpine Lodge, and Will and Sara are going to have to watch their step at every turn. Trapped on the resort, they must untangle a decades-old web of secrets to discover what happened to Mercy. And with the killer poised to strike again, the trip of a lifetime becomes a race against the clock…
Everyone here is a liar, but only one of us is a killer…
A secluded cabin retreat
For GBI investigator Will Trent and medical examiner Sara Linton, McAlpine Lodge seems like the ideal getaway to celebrate their honeymoon. Set on a gorgeous, off-the-grid mountaintop property, it’s the perfect place to unplug and reconnect. Until a bone-chilling scream cuts through the night.
A murderer in their midst
Mercy McAlpine, the manager of the Lodge, is dead. With a vicious storm raging and the one access road to the property washed out, the murderer must be someone on the mountain. But as Will and Sara investigate the McAlpine family and the other guests, they realize that everyone here is lying….Lying about their past. Lying to their family. Lying to themselves.
Who killed Mercy McAlpine?
It soon becomes clear that normal rules don’t apply at McAlpine Lodge, and Will and Sara are going to have to watch their step at every turn. Trapped on the resort, they must untangle a decades-old web of secrets to discover what happened to Mercy. And with the killer poised to strike again, the trip of a lifetime becomes a race against the clock…
768 pages, Paperback
First published August 20, 2024
7766 people are currently reading
81367 people want to read
About the author
Karin Slaughter
128 books86.5k followersKarin Slaughter is one of the world’s most popular storytellers. She is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of more than twenty- five novels, including the Edgar nominated COP TOWN and standalone novels PRETTY GIRLS and FALSE WITNESS. An international bestseller, Slaughter is published in 120 countries with more than 40 million copies sold across the globe. PIECES OF HER, based on her novel, debuted at #1 worldwide on Netflix as an original series in 2022. Her bestselling thriller series, Will Trent, is now a television and streaming sensation in its 4th season. THE GOOD DAUGHTER will soon be a limited series starring Rose Byrne and Meghann Fahy, and further projects are currently in development for film/TV. Karin Slaughter is the founder of the Save the Libraries project—a nonprofit organization established to support libraries and library programming. A native of Georgia, she lives in Atlanta.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 5,121 reviews
August 22, 2024
mercy deserved so much better
June 28, 2024
OMG, you guys! Will and Sarah finally tied the knot! 🎉💍 I absolutely adore this couple! So, they’re off on their honeymoon, right? But guess what? The resort manager, who’s also the owner’s daughter, gets brutally murdered! 😱 Drama, drama, drama! This family is pure insanity, and I was on the edge of my seat, wanting to shake Will awake a few times.
Okay, so this one’s a bit milder compared to Karin's usual stuff, but hold on because the last few chapters? Mind-blowing! I did NOT see that twist coming! Another brilliant installment from Karin. Seriously, I can never get enough of Will and Sarah! Huge thanks to Netgalley and William Morrow for letting me read and review this ARC!
Okay, so this one’s a bit milder compared to Karin's usual stuff, but hold on because the last few chapters? Mind-blowing! I did NOT see that twist coming! Another brilliant installment from Karin. Seriously, I can never get enough of Will and Sarah! Huge thanks to Netgalley and William Morrow for letting me read and review this ARC!
April 1, 2024
My Rating: 3⭐️⭐️⭐️ I am deep in this series, and I love it… but I had some issues!!!
Will and Sara have finally tied the knot, and are about to embark on their honeymoon. It is not a surprise that while they are there something gruesome happens and they stumble upon the recently murdered Mercy McAlpine.
Mercy is their host at the scenic lodge/cabins they are staying at for their honeymoon and Sara and Will are shocked to learn no one in particular seems bothered by Mercy’s brutal demise and everyone has a reason to want her dead.
Ok, so I will start with a bit of a disclaimer - this is Karin Slaughter so its brutal, there are TWs of all shapes and sizes and if you read her books then really its actually not too bad… but… if you don’t regularly read her books then be warned. I will also say this is the 12th book in the series and if you are the kind of person to go … Karly I don’t give a shit I am jumping in at 12 then go for it…but you might find some of the long lasting storyline hard to follow.
With that said… here we go. So I am a big fan of this series and its predecessor the Grant County Series as well I have read every book with these characters and I am not ashamed to say that I think I am so deep in now I have to see where its going…. However I was a bit let down by this one. It wasn’t baaad it just wasn’t up to Slaughters usual standard… IN MY OPINION… don’t shoot me if you disagree.
As per usual it is a long novel and KS does take a year and a half to get to the point BUT she always does this… its totally on brand and I guess by this point I am expecting it. I did find that there were quite a few too many descriptions of the scenery (this is one of my least fave things to read about in thrillers unless you are building ambiance… but scenery for the sake of it… lets get on with the story please) and I think there was some unnecessary recapping and meandering as I said above, its book 12 if you are jumping in at this point then thats on you as a reader, for us old fans we don’t need to be reminded of the bleeding obvious… but again it didn’t ruin it.
I will start by saying what I did really like though, I really like Faith, I think she is fast becoming my fave character of the series, shes funny and has grit and a lot of personality. I can imagine her in my minds eye and I want to meet her. I like how Slaughter writes her character and I like how she’s not perfect but shes loyal AF!
I am glad that Sara and Will finally got their shit together and got married the will they won’t they was killing me… and the Angie storyline has been done to death if you ask me. So that was a really good point for me.
I liked the flash back letters, that was one of my favourite parts of the book, they were by no means easy to read but thats what they were intended for and I liked that Mercy wrote to her son every year on the same day to give him an update… good or bad.
For me some of the things that annoyed me or irked me were the sickly over the top way Sara and Will carry on with each other. I get it they are super mad in love AND on their honeymoon but Sara calling Will my love in every other sentence was too much…. I realise this is part of their story and how they are with each other… but Will is so puppy dogged by Sara and Sara is so hyper aware that she love Will but has this power over him she shouldn’t use to her advantage… It just doesn’t feel natural. I still love them together but it felt a bit wooden in this story for me. Maybe its a me issue…
I didn’t realise when I picked this up (and it still wouldn’t have stopped me reading it) that it was a “locked room” mystery style book. I have found out two things about myself this year… I don’t like locked room mystery style books much and I really don’t like books that compare themselves to Agatha Christie, this book doesn’t do the second thing but I thought I would put it out there anyway. But the constant was it this person… was it that person… no this person has a secret they definitely killed her BUT WAIT its got to be that person… and it was a circular calamity of events to finally get to the big twist … I GET IT this is part of the charm… and red herrings about, I do get it… but KS took that too the next level with this one. It was just all a bit too many things, too many secrets and too much of everything… just chill please.
My other main gripe with this book was the sheer amount of mentions of the trails at the lodge… lets take the rope trail, no we will take widows whatever trail, or that trail etc etc… again it was a circular round and round of trails. I was sick and tired of hearing about the lodge. I get that it was supposed to be one of the main characters in and of itself but I wanted to hear more about the people and the murder and the baddies…. This is where Faith and I are besties… I ALSO hate nature like she does… so reading about mud, and stink and mosquitoes and horses… well I was over it.
I did like the book but I didn’t love it… it definitely wasn’t the strongest in the series by a long shot and while I would still recommend to fans of the series I was a bit let down. It was under 500 pages which is a wow factor for KS but it still felt like it was 800 and I still think it was 100 too long… thats just my opinion. I am sure those of you who love this series will love this one too and I am sure you will all do a bit raspberry in my direction and honestly I hope you do love it… maybe the locked room style was what did me in…
I am going to go into minor spoilers so don’t read further if the TWs I am going to mention will spoil the story for you…
I am also a bit disturbed by the amount of incest that KS puts in her books, this is a common thread and maybe its that part of the country and its actually wide spread or maybe its a shock factor thing… but I honestly am super grossed out by it. Again I realise this is the point of putting it in a thriller but it was jammed in there alongside every other shocking thing and I just don’t think it was necessary OR if you think it was then it needed to be alluded to along the way… so we can prepare… there wasn’t enough warning for this…
Again, the amount of r@pe in these books is horrendous and I realise its a very real very horrific issue that absolutely has a place in thrillers, but I felt that in this book they were thrown in for shock value as well. When we get to Gabbie’s storyline I was open mouthed at the BAM THIS HAPPENED and we wont mention it again… there was no real lead in… and then it was THIS HAPPENED, THIS IS HOW IT WAS DEALT WITH and then nothing… without completely spoiling the book I can’t say more… and maybe its just me but I feel like while these things are definitely part of thrillers it can be handled a little more tactfully in places… and if its not then there has to be more to the story than just shock. I do not think I have read a single KS book without r@pe and usually multiples… I am not saying we shouldn’t put it in thrillers it just seem really over the top in these novels.
Minor spoilers over…
Either way for all my ranting I am glad I read it… I liked it…didn’t love it and I look forward to the next one.
Thank you to Harper Collins UK, Karin Slaughter and NetGalley for an advanced copy for my honest review.
Will and Sara have finally tied the knot, and are about to embark on their honeymoon. It is not a surprise that while they are there something gruesome happens and they stumble upon the recently murdered Mercy McAlpine.
Mercy is their host at the scenic lodge/cabins they are staying at for their honeymoon and Sara and Will are shocked to learn no one in particular seems bothered by Mercy’s brutal demise and everyone has a reason to want her dead.
Ok, so I will start with a bit of a disclaimer - this is Karin Slaughter so its brutal, there are TWs of all shapes and sizes and if you read her books then really its actually not too bad… but… if you don’t regularly read her books then be warned. I will also say this is the 12th book in the series and if you are the kind of person to go … Karly I don’t give a shit I am jumping in at 12 then go for it…but you might find some of the long lasting storyline hard to follow.
With that said… here we go. So I am a big fan of this series and its predecessor the Grant County Series as well I have read every book with these characters and I am not ashamed to say that I think I am so deep in now I have to see where its going…. However I was a bit let down by this one. It wasn’t baaad it just wasn’t up to Slaughters usual standard… IN MY OPINION… don’t shoot me if you disagree.
As per usual it is a long novel and KS does take a year and a half to get to the point BUT she always does this… its totally on brand and I guess by this point I am expecting it. I did find that there were quite a few too many descriptions of the scenery (this is one of my least fave things to read about in thrillers unless you are building ambiance… but scenery for the sake of it… lets get on with the story please) and I think there was some unnecessary recapping and meandering as I said above, its book 12 if you are jumping in at this point then thats on you as a reader, for us old fans we don’t need to be reminded of the bleeding obvious… but again it didn’t ruin it.
I will start by saying what I did really like though, I really like Faith, I think she is fast becoming my fave character of the series, shes funny and has grit and a lot of personality. I can imagine her in my minds eye and I want to meet her. I like how Slaughter writes her character and I like how she’s not perfect but shes loyal AF!
I am glad that Sara and Will finally got their shit together and got married the will they won’t they was killing me… and the Angie storyline has been done to death if you ask me. So that was a really good point for me.
I liked the flash back letters, that was one of my favourite parts of the book, they were by no means easy to read but thats what they were intended for and I liked that Mercy wrote to her son every year on the same day to give him an update… good or bad.
For me some of the things that annoyed me or irked me were the sickly over the top way Sara and Will carry on with each other. I get it they are super mad in love AND on their honeymoon but Sara calling Will my love in every other sentence was too much…. I realise this is part of their story and how they are with each other… but Will is so puppy dogged by Sara and Sara is so hyper aware that she love Will but has this power over him she shouldn’t use to her advantage… It just doesn’t feel natural. I still love them together but it felt a bit wooden in this story for me. Maybe its a me issue…
I didn’t realise when I picked this up (and it still wouldn’t have stopped me reading it) that it was a “locked room” mystery style book. I have found out two things about myself this year… I don’t like locked room mystery style books much and I really don’t like books that compare themselves to Agatha Christie, this book doesn’t do the second thing but I thought I would put it out there anyway. But the constant was it this person… was it that person… no this person has a secret they definitely killed her BUT WAIT its got to be that person… and it was a circular calamity of events to finally get to the big twist … I GET IT this is part of the charm… and red herrings about, I do get it… but KS took that too the next level with this one. It was just all a bit too many things, too many secrets and too much of everything… just chill please.
My other main gripe with this book was the sheer amount of mentions of the trails at the lodge… lets take the rope trail, no we will take widows whatever trail, or that trail etc etc… again it was a circular round and round of trails. I was sick and tired of hearing about the lodge. I get that it was supposed to be one of the main characters in and of itself but I wanted to hear more about the people and the murder and the baddies…. This is where Faith and I are besties… I ALSO hate nature like she does… so reading about mud, and stink and mosquitoes and horses… well I was over it.
I did like the book but I didn’t love it… it definitely wasn’t the strongest in the series by a long shot and while I would still recommend to fans of the series I was a bit let down. It was under 500 pages which is a wow factor for KS but it still felt like it was 800 and I still think it was 100 too long… thats just my opinion. I am sure those of you who love this series will love this one too and I am sure you will all do a bit raspberry in my direction and honestly I hope you do love it… maybe the locked room style was what did me in…
I am going to go into minor spoilers so don’t read further if the TWs I am going to mention will spoil the story for you…
I am also a bit disturbed by the amount of incest that KS puts in her books, this is a common thread and maybe its that part of the country and its actually wide spread or maybe its a shock factor thing… but I honestly am super grossed out by it. Again I realise this is the point of putting it in a thriller but it was jammed in there alongside every other shocking thing and I just don’t think it was necessary OR if you think it was then it needed to be alluded to along the way… so we can prepare… there wasn’t enough warning for this…
Again, the amount of r@pe in these books is horrendous and I realise its a very real very horrific issue that absolutely has a place in thrillers, but I felt that in this book they were thrown in for shock value as well. When we get to Gabbie’s storyline I was open mouthed at the BAM THIS HAPPENED and we wont mention it again… there was no real lead in… and then it was THIS HAPPENED, THIS IS HOW IT WAS DEALT WITH and then nothing… without completely spoiling the book I can’t say more… and maybe its just me but I feel like while these things are definitely part of thrillers it can be handled a little more tactfully in places… and if its not then there has to be more to the story than just shock. I do not think I have read a single KS book without r@pe and usually multiples… I am not saying we shouldn’t put it in thrillers it just seem really over the top in these novels.
Minor spoilers over…
Either way for all my ranting I am glad I read it… I liked it…didn’t love it and I look forward to the next one.
Thank you to Harper Collins UK, Karin Slaughter and NetGalley for an advanced copy for my honest review.
June 24, 2024
Karin Slaughter has delivered another addictive, shocking, thrilling, and riveting addition to the Will Trent series. She kills it time and time again with this wonderful and gripping series! Will and Sara are beginning their honeymoon at McAlpine Lodge, a mountain getaway. It’s a beautiful and relaxing setting until a body is found. Naturally they jump into gear trying to secure the scene, keep everyone separate, and try to determine whodunit. They will need to sift through all the secrets and lies to find their footing on this murder mystery.
The victim is Mercy, the daughter of the owners who is known in town as a troubled person stemming from things in her past. She is the fodder for all their gossip. Everyone at the lodge is a suspect. Everyone appears to have something to hide, especially Mercy’s toxic family.
As the investigation goes into high gear, the tension mounts as does the danger level at the camp. When another person dies, the stakes become even higher. People are lying left and right but who amongst them is a killer? I put on my super sleuthing hat and tried my best to do my own detective work, but never guessed whodunit! I love when that happens.
Faith and Amanda arrive on the scene and throw themselves into the investigation as well. I love their personalities, and their interactions with each other, including Will and Sara. They really are a family. Speaking of relationships, I continue to adore Will and Sara together. They continue to compliment each other and make each other stronger.
Karin Slaughter did a fantastic job of making everyone a suspect in this book. I found this book to be well thought out. Slaughter knows how to depict unlikeable and despicable characters. This book has many things going on and touches on many issues such as addiction, domestic violence, toxic relationships, and control to name just a few.
*I listened to the audiobook and thought the narration was fantastic! Very well done.
Wonderfully written, perfectly paced, well thought out, gripping and tense!
*A wich words buddy read
Thank you to HarperCollins UK Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
The victim is Mercy, the daughter of the owners who is known in town as a troubled person stemming from things in her past. She is the fodder for all their gossip. Everyone at the lodge is a suspect. Everyone appears to have something to hide, especially Mercy’s toxic family.
As the investigation goes into high gear, the tension mounts as does the danger level at the camp. When another person dies, the stakes become even higher. People are lying left and right but who amongst them is a killer? I put on my super sleuthing hat and tried my best to do my own detective work, but never guessed whodunit! I love when that happens.
Faith and Amanda arrive on the scene and throw themselves into the investigation as well. I love their personalities, and their interactions with each other, including Will and Sara. They really are a family. Speaking of relationships, I continue to adore Will and Sara together. They continue to compliment each other and make each other stronger.
Karin Slaughter did a fantastic job of making everyone a suspect in this book. I found this book to be well thought out. Slaughter knows how to depict unlikeable and despicable characters. This book has many things going on and touches on many issues such as addiction, domestic violence, toxic relationships, and control to name just a few.
*I listened to the audiobook and thought the narration was fantastic! Very well done.
Wonderfully written, perfectly paced, well thought out, gripping and tense!
*A wich words buddy read
Thank you to HarperCollins UK Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
September 25, 2024
4.0 Stars Happy Publication Day🎊🙌📚
Be prepared for a wild ride with the 12th book in ‘’The Will Trent Series’’— ‘’This Is Why We Lied.’’ This gripping tale takes the intensity to a new level, probing into the dark and twisted world surrounding a shocking murder.
Will and Sara plan a romantic honeymoon at the picturesque McAlpine lodge, but their idyllic getaway turns sinister when they stumble upon a murder scene. As they grapple with the horrific crime, they uncover disturbing family secrets and manipulation that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
The captivating mountain setting contrasts the toxic environment of the McAlpine family, filled with lies, betrayal, dark secrets, and overwhelming sadness. You'll be drawn into a locked-room mystery as bad weather traps everyone on the mountain, intensifying the tension as suspicions and motives swirl.
The author skillfully leads you down unexpected paths as the plot thickens, keeping you guessing until the heart-wrenching reveal. This riveting story is a true page-turner, with compelling characters and psychological depth that will leave a lasting impact. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions as you unravel the unsettling truth behind Mercy's death. Be prepared for a wild ride with the 12th book in ‘’The Will Trent Series’’— ‘’This Is Why We Lied.’’ This gripping tale takes the intensity to a new level, probing into the dark and twisted world surrounding a shocking murder.
Will and Sara plan a romantic honeymoon at the picturesque McAlpine lodge, but their idyllic getaway turns sinister when they stumble upon a murder scene. As they grapple with the horrific crime, they uncover disturbing family secrets and manipulation that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
The captivating mountain setting contrasts the toxic environment of the McAlpine family, filled with lies, betrayal, dark secrets, and overwhelming sadness. You'll be drawn into a locked-room mystery as bad weather traps everyone on the mountain, intensifying the tension as suspicions and motives swirl.
The author skillfully leads you down unexpected paths as the plot thickens, keeping you guessing until the heart-wrenching reveal. This riveting story is a true page-turner, with compelling characters and psychological depth that will leave a lasting impact. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions as you unravel the unsettling truth behind Mercy's death.
I highly recommend this book. You can read it as a stand-alone, but I suggest you start with the first book in the series. This will allow you to learn the backstories of the main characters and supporting characters and watch them grow and develop throughout the series.
Thanks to Killer Crime Club (Harper Collins Canada) for the gifted e-arc copy. In no way was I obligated to provide a review. All opinions are my own.
Be prepared for a wild ride with the 12th book in ‘’The Will Trent Series’’— ‘’This Is Why We Lied.’’ This gripping tale takes the intensity to a new level, probing into the dark and twisted world surrounding a shocking murder.
Will and Sara plan a romantic honeymoon at the picturesque McAlpine lodge, but their idyllic getaway turns sinister when they stumble upon a murder scene. As they grapple with the horrific crime, they uncover disturbing family secrets and manipulation that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
The captivating mountain setting contrasts the toxic environment of the McAlpine family, filled with lies, betrayal, dark secrets, and overwhelming sadness. You'll be drawn into a locked-room mystery as bad weather traps everyone on the mountain, intensifying the tension as suspicions and motives swirl.
The author skillfully leads you down unexpected paths as the plot thickens, keeping you guessing until the heart-wrenching reveal. This riveting story is a true page-turner, with compelling characters and psychological depth that will leave a lasting impact. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions as you unravel the unsettling truth behind Mercy's death. Be prepared for a wild ride with the 12th book in ‘’The Will Trent Series’’— ‘’This Is Why We Lied.’’ This gripping tale takes the intensity to a new level, probing into the dark and twisted world surrounding a shocking murder.
Will and Sara plan a romantic honeymoon at the picturesque McAlpine lodge, but their idyllic getaway turns sinister when they stumble upon a murder scene. As they grapple with the horrific crime, they uncover disturbing family secrets and manipulation that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
The captivating mountain setting contrasts the toxic environment of the McAlpine family, filled with lies, betrayal, dark secrets, and overwhelming sadness. You'll be drawn into a locked-room mystery as bad weather traps everyone on the mountain, intensifying the tension as suspicions and motives swirl.
The author skillfully leads you down unexpected paths as the plot thickens, keeping you guessing until the heart-wrenching reveal. This riveting story is a true page-turner, with compelling characters and psychological depth that will leave a lasting impact. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions as you unravel the unsettling truth behind Mercy's death.
I highly recommend this book. You can read it as a stand-alone, but I suggest you start with the first book in the series. This will allow you to learn the backstories of the main characters and supporting characters and watch them grow and develop throughout the series.
Thanks to Killer Crime Club (Harper Collins Canada) for the gifted e-arc copy. In no way was I obligated to provide a review. All opinions are my own.
August 27, 2024
well yes.. i gave it 5 stars. clap clap clap. this was insane and i was literally on the train home from work gasping OUT LOUD like a freak at some of the vile things in this book... they're not doing this on the show that's for sure.
September 30, 2024
There was no doubt in my mind I would rate this 5 stars 😂
This Is Why We Lied is is 12th book in the Will Trent series, and is her take on a locked room mystery. Will and Sara are on their honeymoon at a mountain top retreat when a woman is brutally murdered. There is a limited amount of suspects, and no one can leave thanks to a serious storm that washed out the only way in and out. Will, Sara, and Faith try to find the killer before they can strike again, and end up uncovering a web of lies and so many dark secrets that it seems as if everyone could potentially be the killer.
Yeah, this was everything I wanted it to be and more and I’m not even surprised at this point!! Karin can do dialogue like no other, and each character is so incredibly fleshed out I had no trouble keeping track of the huge cast of characters. Her banter is unmatched, and serves as some much needed levity in a pretty heavy story. The twists and turns are non stop, the suspense was ever mounting, the character development was top tier- I love everything about this, and it again just cements Karin as my favorite author of all time.
I will say, I guessed the ending right at the beginning which I’m never able to do, but I was still very surprised throughout the story as we got to the final shocking conclusion. If you’ve ever read a Slaughter book you know her characters go through it, and the just sheer amount of bad things the characters went through was pretty unprecedented. Like, I knew things would get bad, but yeah, wasn’t expecting all that.
Cannot recommend enough!! I will update with more thoughts later!!!
This Is Why We Lied is is 12th book in the Will Trent series, and is her take on a locked room mystery. Will and Sara are on their honeymoon at a mountain top retreat when a woman is brutally murdered. There is a limited amount of suspects, and no one can leave thanks to a serious storm that washed out the only way in and out. Will, Sara, and Faith try to find the killer before they can strike again, and end up uncovering a web of lies and so many dark secrets that it seems as if everyone could potentially be the killer.
Yeah, this was everything I wanted it to be and more and I’m not even surprised at this point!! Karin can do dialogue like no other, and each character is so incredibly fleshed out I had no trouble keeping track of the huge cast of characters. Her banter is unmatched, and serves as some much needed levity in a pretty heavy story. The twists and turns are non stop, the suspense was ever mounting, the character development was top tier- I love everything about this, and it again just cements Karin as my favorite author of all time.
I will say, I guessed the ending right at the beginning which I’m never able to do, but I was still very surprised throughout the story as we got to the final shocking conclusion. If you’ve ever read a Slaughter book you know her characters go through it, and the just sheer amount of bad things the characters went through was pretty unprecedented. Like, I knew things would get bad, but yeah, wasn’t expecting all that.
Cannot recommend enough!! I will update with more thoughts later!!!
October 23, 2024
3.5 stars, rounded up. Intriguing, engrossing addition to the Will Trent series.
Will and Sara just got married and are on their honeymoon at the McAlpine Lodge, a remote inn run by members of a family. Shortly after their arrival, Will and Sara are taking a moonlight swim and hear screams. Will finds Mercy McAlpine stabbed multiple times and taking her final breaths. Who killed Mercy and why? The more they investigate the family and the guests, the more motives they uncover.
This is a twisty book, but it's quite sad overall. I really felt for Mercy, trying to make something of her life after years of trauma. And to have her efforts be thwarted at every turn--both by others and by her own continuous poor choices. There are definitely horrible characters, ones I felt gut-wrenching anger towards for sure. It's also a "locked room" type mystery which is one of my favorites. Access into and out of the lodge area is difficult, so we have only a limited number of people to consider for who killed Mercy.
The novel relies on some things that I don't particularly love--the reader can't figure it out because many things that are known by the characters are hidden from the reader (and from Will, Sara, and the other agents.) Mercy's past is dribbled out very, very slowly and by the time all was revealed about her past, I was able to figure a great deal of it out. I feel like if the law enforcement characters had asked the right questions they could have uncovered things more quickly too.
Also, Will and Sara's relationship is super sappy. Cloyingly sappy and cheesy. They speak to each other like no real people speak to each other. We have waited so many books for them to finally get together and now they are just gaggy saccharine sweet, lovey-dovey clingy. KS please stop. We like them the way they were.
If you have triggers, be warned. There are plenty afoot. Look them up if you're worried but this is a Karin Slaughter novel and if you're this far into the series you should know what you're getting into at this point.
I liked it, but it's a little long and drawn out (as per usual for this author).
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Will and Sara just got married and are on their honeymoon at the McAlpine Lodge, a remote inn run by members of a family. Shortly after their arrival, Will and Sara are taking a moonlight swim and hear screams. Will finds Mercy McAlpine stabbed multiple times and taking her final breaths. Who killed Mercy and why? The more they investigate the family and the guests, the more motives they uncover.
This is a twisty book, but it's quite sad overall. I really felt for Mercy, trying to make something of her life after years of trauma. And to have her efforts be thwarted at every turn--both by others and by her own continuous poor choices. There are definitely horrible characters, ones I felt gut-wrenching anger towards for sure. It's also a "locked room" type mystery which is one of my favorites. Access into and out of the lodge area is difficult, so we have only a limited number of people to consider for who killed Mercy.
The novel relies on some things that I don't particularly love--the reader can't figure it out because many things that are known by the characters are hidden from the reader (and from Will, Sara, and the other agents.) Mercy's past is dribbled out very, very slowly and by the time all was revealed about her past, I was able to figure a great deal of it out. I feel like if the law enforcement characters had asked the right questions they could have uncovered things more quickly too.
Also, Will and Sara's relationship is super sappy. Cloyingly sappy and cheesy. They speak to each other like no real people speak to each other. We have waited so many books for them to finally get together and now they are just gaggy saccharine sweet, lovey-dovey clingy. KS please stop. We like them the way they were.
If you have triggers, be warned. There are plenty afoot. Look them up if you're worried but this is a Karin Slaughter novel and if you're this far into the series you should know what you're getting into at this point.
I liked it, but it's a little long and drawn out (as per usual for this author).
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
November 28, 2024
Unbelievable. My jaw is still dropped. Review to come...
April 12, 2024
Firstly I would like to thank netgalley and Harpercollins uk and the brilliant author karin slaughter for an early copy of her book to read.
Another fantastic read,can't get enough of the Will trent series.Will and Sarah finally get married and will organised the honeymoon to a resort of lodges for activities hiking ect the family that own the place have many secrets,Mercy runs the place but her family treat her badly why? She ends up murdered was it her ex husband as he treated her badly,was it the staff,she has a son she loves but she has a terrible past..Will and Sara get involved and investigates with the help of faith and Amanda..This is a fantastic mystery had me hooked..a fantastic author always looking forward to reading her next book.
Another fantastic read,can't get enough of the Will trent series.Will and Sarah finally get married and will organised the honeymoon to a resort of lodges for activities hiking ect the family that own the place have many secrets,Mercy runs the place but her family treat her badly why? She ends up murdered was it her ex husband as he treated her badly,was it the staff,she has a son she loves but she has a terrible past..Will and Sara get involved and investigates with the help of faith and Amanda..This is a fantastic mystery had me hooked..a fantastic author always looking forward to reading her next book.
August 16, 2024
I normally love Karin Slaughter and particularly the Will Trent series , but this was so excruciatingly slow that by the time the final twist came ( which was good) I just didn’t care anymore ..
May 26, 2024
Why oh why have I not read all of this series? Picking up this book gave me a swift reminder that I need to read more of them. I just love the way that Karin Slaughter writes, so dark and unsettling and full of interesting and complex characters. This was a locked room murder mystery of sorts and I loved it.
As always with this author, it is a long book, but never boring or drawn out. Will Trent and Sara Linton are on their honeymoon in a remote cabin retreat. No wifi and limited phone service. A break is just what both of them need. But their honeymoon is cut short when one of the family that run the place is murdered. The pair cannot stand by and do nothing, even when Faith and Amanda arrive. The big problem they come across is that any of the family or other guests could be the killer. There are plenty of reasons for any of them to want Mercy McAlpine dead.
What a dysfunctional family!! Not a nice one amongst them. So many lies, so much happening behind each others backs. It was truly awful to see how they behaved and acted towards each other. The ending was shocking and emotional. Superb writing.
Thanks so much to Harper Collins UK for the advanced copy to read. Publishes on June 20th.
As always with this author, it is a long book, but never boring or drawn out. Will Trent and Sara Linton are on their honeymoon in a remote cabin retreat. No wifi and limited phone service. A break is just what both of them need. But their honeymoon is cut short when one of the family that run the place is murdered. The pair cannot stand by and do nothing, even when Faith and Amanda arrive. The big problem they come across is that any of the family or other guests could be the killer. There are plenty of reasons for any of them to want Mercy McAlpine dead.
What a dysfunctional family!! Not a nice one amongst them. So many lies, so much happening behind each others backs. It was truly awful to see how they behaved and acted towards each other. The ending was shocking and emotional. Superb writing.
Thanks so much to Harper Collins UK for the advanced copy to read. Publishes on June 20th.
June 23, 2024
EXCERPT: As far as he knew, there were only two photographs that documented the seventeen years of his mother's short life. One was a mugshot from an arrest that had taken place a year before Will was born. The other was taken by the medical examiner who had performed her autopsy. Polaroid. Faded. The waxy blue of his mother's skin was the same color as the dead woman lying twenty feet away.
ABOUT 'THIS IS WHY WE LIED': One toxic family. Eight suspicious guests. Everyone is guilty. But who is a killer?
Welcome to the McAlpine Lodge: a secluded mountain getaway, it’s the height of escapist luxury living.
Except that everyone here is lying. Lying about their past. Lying to their family. Lying to themselves.
Then one night, Mercy McAlpine – until now the good daughter – threatens to expose everybody's secrets. Just hours later, Mercy is dead.
In an area this remote, it’s easy to get away with murder. But Will Trent and Sara Linton – investigator and medical examiner for the GBI – are here on their honeymoon.
And now, with the killer poised to strike again, the holiday of a lifetime becomes a race against the clock…
MY THOUGHTS: I am so very grateful that I was not born into the McAlpine family! Mercy, Mercy, Mercy . . . why did you stay?
They would have to take the cake as far as being the most manipulative, cruel and abusive family I have ever read about. So, if you are susceptible to triggers, stay well away from this one. It contains almost every trigger under the sun. Every member of this family is absolutely despicable. They are cold and unfeeling. They lie. They manipulate. They abuse. They kill. This is such normal behavior for them and so well written that Will and Sara's honeymoon behavior seems unnatural and gross in comparison.
This is Why We Lied is a fast-paced locked-room murder mystery. Set in an isolated location where, other than an unsealed service road, hiking in is the only access option, all the suspects are trapped by a severe storm which washes out access.
It seems that almost everyone - not just the family! - has some sort of motive to kill Mercy and all are plausible. Several times I thought I had it figured out, but that was just Ms Slaughter playing with me. The final reveal shocked me to the core!
May Mercy rest in peace - it will be the only peace she has ever had.
⭐⭐⭐.8
#NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Slaughter is the founder of the Save the Libraries project—a nonprofit organization established to support libraries and library programming. A native of Georgia, she lives in Atlanta.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harper Collins UK, Harper Fiction, for providing a digital ARC of This is Why We Lied by Karin Slaughter for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
ABOUT 'THIS IS WHY WE LIED': One toxic family. Eight suspicious guests. Everyone is guilty. But who is a killer?
Welcome to the McAlpine Lodge: a secluded mountain getaway, it’s the height of escapist luxury living.
Except that everyone here is lying. Lying about their past. Lying to their family. Lying to themselves.
Then one night, Mercy McAlpine – until now the good daughter – threatens to expose everybody's secrets. Just hours later, Mercy is dead.
In an area this remote, it’s easy to get away with murder. But Will Trent and Sara Linton – investigator and medical examiner for the GBI – are here on their honeymoon.
And now, with the killer poised to strike again, the holiday of a lifetime becomes a race against the clock…
MY THOUGHTS: I am so very grateful that I was not born into the McAlpine family! Mercy, Mercy, Mercy . . . why did you stay?
They would have to take the cake as far as being the most manipulative, cruel and abusive family I have ever read about. So, if you are susceptible to triggers, stay well away from this one. It contains almost every trigger under the sun. Every member of this family is absolutely despicable. They are cold and unfeeling. They lie. They manipulate. They abuse. They kill. This is such normal behavior for them and so well written that Will and Sara's honeymoon behavior seems unnatural and gross in comparison.
This is Why We Lied is a fast-paced locked-room murder mystery. Set in an isolated location where, other than an unsealed service road, hiking in is the only access option, all the suspects are trapped by a severe storm which washes out access.
It seems that almost everyone - not just the family! - has some sort of motive to kill Mercy and all are plausible. Several times I thought I had it figured out, but that was just Ms Slaughter playing with me. The final reveal shocked me to the core!
May Mercy rest in peace - it will be the only peace she has ever had.
⭐⭐⭐.8
#NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Slaughter is the founder of the Save the Libraries project—a nonprofit organization established to support libraries and library programming. A native of Georgia, she lives in Atlanta.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harper Collins UK, Harper Fiction, for providing a digital ARC of This is Why We Lied by Karin Slaughter for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
June 28, 2024
I don't want Karin Slaughter to ever stop writing this series. I wanna read this until I die. For a minute there, it seemed like it was gonna be a 4⭐,but the last few chapters came out of nowhere and that made me sigh with relief and also 👀 at the same time.
February 16, 2025
I have devoured a lot of the brilliant Karin Slaughter's mysteries and thrillers, and I love the Will Trent series -- and TV adaptation. In any case, THIS IS WHY WE LIED is both a terrific addition to the Will Trent series and a fantastic stand-alone mystery novel. Also, that ending -- or, to be precise, that series of endings? So smart and so surprising, and Karin Slaughter does one of the things she does best: she pulls the rug out from under us over and over. The ending is Aristotelian: both utterly surprising and absolutely inevitable.
September 24, 2024
the setup…
Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) Agent Will Trent and medical examiner Sara Linton have finally married and he’s surprised her with their honeymoon site. It’s the McAlpine Family Lodge, located about two hours from Atlanta on a beautiful mountaintop that offers isolation and serenity. That is until late one night when they’re in a secluded spot and hear a blood-curdling scream. Will races to the scene and finds Mercy McAlpine, the lodge manager, brutally assaulted and mortally wounded. She begs him with her dying breath to give her son a message but never identifies her killer. What was supposed to be two weeks of rest of relaxation for both Will and Sara is now anything but.
the heart of the story…
Back up a few hours and we learn a lot about the family and other guests, enough to know that there are a plethora of suspects, including someone Will knew from his days in the foster care system. Mercy had a tough life with an abusive father and husband, a cold and distant mother and a history that spawned even more enemies. And, something shifty was going on at the lodge. I must admit that I bounced from one suspect to another with each new revelation and finally decided to just roll with the story.
the narration…
Kathleen Early is just the best at telling these stories, capturing the essences of the characters and giving a brilliant performance. I only listen to the books because of her skills.
the bottom line…
Well, that happened! Though I had my suspicions, it was more than I’d imagined. It’s not all about the investigation as Will’s past is certainly a vital element but it’s also the relationship between him and Sara that gets tested and solidified. It’s a difficult story but fascinating in its breadth and emotional punch. This brought all the thrills and tension.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) Agent Will Trent and medical examiner Sara Linton have finally married and he’s surprised her with their honeymoon site. It’s the McAlpine Family Lodge, located about two hours from Atlanta on a beautiful mountaintop that offers isolation and serenity. That is until late one night when they’re in a secluded spot and hear a blood-curdling scream. Will races to the scene and finds Mercy McAlpine, the lodge manager, brutally assaulted and mortally wounded. She begs him with her dying breath to give her son a message but never identifies her killer. What was supposed to be two weeks of rest of relaxation for both Will and Sara is now anything but.
the heart of the story…
Back up a few hours and we learn a lot about the family and other guests, enough to know that there are a plethora of suspects, including someone Will knew from his days in the foster care system. Mercy had a tough life with an abusive father and husband, a cold and distant mother and a history that spawned even more enemies. And, something shifty was going on at the lodge. I must admit that I bounced from one suspect to another with each new revelation and finally decided to just roll with the story.
the narration…
Kathleen Early is just the best at telling these stories, capturing the essences of the characters and giving a brilliant performance. I only listen to the books because of her skills.
the bottom line…
Well, that happened! Though I had my suspicions, it was more than I’d imagined. It’s not all about the investigation as Will’s past is certainly a vital element but it’s also the relationship between him and Sara that gets tested and solidified. It’s a difficult story but fascinating in its breadth and emotional punch. This brought all the thrills and tension.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
June 17, 2024
As fans of the critically acclaimed Will Trent television series celebrate news of the show's renewal for another season, Author Karin Slaughter prepares for the August release of THIS IS WHY WE LIED, Will Trent book #12, a locked room style murder mystery that derails the idyllic honeymoon Will Trent planned for his bride Sara Linton. As in previous series books, the subject matter is dark, disturbing and brutally in-your-face honest highlighting the life shattering effects of drug and alcohol abuse, domestic violence and child abuse on victims and their families. Isolate yourself in your own locked room with minimum interruptions before diving into this one as it's a cover-to-cover, break your heart, edge of your seat thriller.
GBI Investigator Will Trent and his new bride Medical Examiner Sara Linton tell a trivial lie to conceal their real occupations when signing in at the McAlpine Lodge as a honeymooning mechanic and chemistry teacher. Will surprised Sara with the remote getaway, hoping to celebrate their marriage by leaving work behind for long days and nights in each other's arms. The secluded location boasts breathtaking scenery, private cabins, a large scenic lake for fishing and swimming, and a luxurious lodge where guests gather for drinks and meals. When their first lodge dinner ends in an ugly, threatening family quarrel, Will second-guesses his choice of venues. His reservations prove true later that night when his romantic skinny-dipping outing with Sara is shattered by a bloodcurdling scream, sending them scrambling to find a woman succumbing from fatal wounds. Will and Sara are sickened by the lack of grief exhibited for the victim and concerned when they discover each family member, as well as several guests, has a motive for wanting the victim dead. As ties to the outside world are severed by a raging storm, Will manages to send an SOS to Amanda receiving a reply indicating Faith and Amanda are on the way. Will they arrive in time to stop a psychotic killer before he/she strikes again?
THIS IS WHY WE LIED unfolds through the dual points of view from Will and Sara with Mercy's point of view and backstory revealed via journal entries written to her son over the years chronicling her mental and physical abuse as well as the resentment festering within her toxic family. Slaughter doesn't sugar coat anything as she expertly manipulates characters and readers through a complex, twisted plot line with the remote setting and fury of Mother Nature playing a key role in creating havoc while setting the stage for a highly volatile, locked room situation where every stranded character on the mountain is a viable suspect. An ill-fated, malignant tone saturates the air driving a frenzied pace through a minefield of shocking revelations waiting to detonate. While my suspicions on the identity of the killer proved true, reasons surrounding the savage stabbing left me reeling and heartsick. Warning triggers include domestic violence, addiction, child abuse, rape and incest with each one professionally managed within the context of the story by Author Karin Slaughter. The darkness is lightened with evidence of the power of love and trust to heal and reform woven throughout. Fans of the series will love seeing Will surrender to his love for Sara and enjoy the interaction between Will and his boss Amanda with comic relief provided by Faith's inner monologue soothing the heavy load.
THIS IS WHY WE LIED has it all. A secluded setting with a raging storm. A hate fueled murder. A malevolent, dysfunctional family. Eight conspiratorial guests. A race against time to unmask a deranged villain. Everyone has a reason why they lied in this gritty thriller by the queen of psychological thrillers. It’s up to readers and Will to sift through all the lies and red herrings to deduce which liar is also a killer. Intense, gripping, gutsy, multilayered and highly emotional, THIS IS WHY WE LIED is Karin Slaughter at her best. Highly recommended to fans of the series and all readers who enjoy a fast-paced, dark suspense thriller.
Many thanks to the publisher for an arc of THIS IS WHY WE LIED and to Author Karin Slaughter for graciously granting me an interview. This book is scheduled for release on August 20, 2024. All opinions expressed are my own. This review is published in Mystery & Suspense Magazine and my interview with the author will be available in the magazine at a future date. My review is also available on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews.
GBI Investigator Will Trent and his new bride Medical Examiner Sara Linton tell a trivial lie to conceal their real occupations when signing in at the McAlpine Lodge as a honeymooning mechanic and chemistry teacher. Will surprised Sara with the remote getaway, hoping to celebrate their marriage by leaving work behind for long days and nights in each other's arms. The secluded location boasts breathtaking scenery, private cabins, a large scenic lake for fishing and swimming, and a luxurious lodge where guests gather for drinks and meals. When their first lodge dinner ends in an ugly, threatening family quarrel, Will second-guesses his choice of venues. His reservations prove true later that night when his romantic skinny-dipping outing with Sara is shattered by a bloodcurdling scream, sending them scrambling to find a woman succumbing from fatal wounds. Will and Sara are sickened by the lack of grief exhibited for the victim and concerned when they discover each family member, as well as several guests, has a motive for wanting the victim dead. As ties to the outside world are severed by a raging storm, Will manages to send an SOS to Amanda receiving a reply indicating Faith and Amanda are on the way. Will they arrive in time to stop a psychotic killer before he/she strikes again?
THIS IS WHY WE LIED unfolds through the dual points of view from Will and Sara with Mercy's point of view and backstory revealed via journal entries written to her son over the years chronicling her mental and physical abuse as well as the resentment festering within her toxic family. Slaughter doesn't sugar coat anything as she expertly manipulates characters and readers through a complex, twisted plot line with the remote setting and fury of Mother Nature playing a key role in creating havoc while setting the stage for a highly volatile, locked room situation where every stranded character on the mountain is a viable suspect. An ill-fated, malignant tone saturates the air driving a frenzied pace through a minefield of shocking revelations waiting to detonate. While my suspicions on the identity of the killer proved true, reasons surrounding the savage stabbing left me reeling and heartsick. Warning triggers include domestic violence, addiction, child abuse, rape and incest with each one professionally managed within the context of the story by Author Karin Slaughter. The darkness is lightened with evidence of the power of love and trust to heal and reform woven throughout. Fans of the series will love seeing Will surrender to his love for Sara and enjoy the interaction between Will and his boss Amanda with comic relief provided by Faith's inner monologue soothing the heavy load.
THIS IS WHY WE LIED has it all. A secluded setting with a raging storm. A hate fueled murder. A malevolent, dysfunctional family. Eight conspiratorial guests. A race against time to unmask a deranged villain. Everyone has a reason why they lied in this gritty thriller by the queen of psychological thrillers. It’s up to readers and Will to sift through all the lies and red herrings to deduce which liar is also a killer. Intense, gripping, gutsy, multilayered and highly emotional, THIS IS WHY WE LIED is Karin Slaughter at her best. Highly recommended to fans of the series and all readers who enjoy a fast-paced, dark suspense thriller.
Many thanks to the publisher for an arc of THIS IS WHY WE LIED and to Author Karin Slaughter for graciously granting me an interview. This book is scheduled for release on August 20, 2024. All opinions expressed are my own. This review is published in Mystery & Suspense Magazine and my interview with the author will be available in the magazine at a future date. My review is also available on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews.
May 30, 2024
This Is Why We Lied is the twelfth book in the Will Trent Series by best-selling American author, Karin Slaughter. Atlanta medical examiner Sara Linton organised their wedding. GBI investigator Will Trent is taking care of the honeymoon and, to his surprise and Sara’s delight, has got it exactly right: a luxury cabin at a family-run, off-the-grid mountain lodge that offers hiking, biking, fishing, canoeing, gourmet meals and sunrise yoga. If only their first night swim hadn’t been interrupted by a blood-curdling scream and the discovery of a stabbing victim, dying even as Will tries to give aid.
Mercy McAlpine, currently managing the resort, has been stabbed multiple times and left on the lake shore. Neither Will nor Sara can stand by and do nothing.
It turns out that, hours earlier, Mercy reacted very badly to the plans her father has for the resort: threats flew back and forth, and quite a few of those present at the family meeting would have a strong motive for killing her. And something Mercy has not shared with anyone else, but one of the guests also might have a serious issue with her.
When a wild storm cuts off road access, Will sends an SOS to his GBI boss, and Faith Mitchell has a locked-room situation she’s always wondered how she might handle. An added wrinkle is that one of the McAlpine family turns out to be the fellow inmate at the children’s home who made Will’s life hell. Dave McAlpine, first adopted then married into the family, and now Mercy’s ex, is known to have often been violent with her, and the prime suspect in Will’s book.
Would that it was quite so cut and dried. People grieve differently, but even for such a dysfunctional group of nasty people, Mercy’s family are behaving very strangely, and when Will and Sara reveal they are not a mechanic and a high school chemistry teacher, the reactions of both hosts and guests are not exactly benign. Of course, they aren’t the only ones who have lied about who they are, or what they do.
My oh my, pre-book a chiropractic appointment before you start this one: there are so many twists, turns, red herrings and surprises, you’ll need it. Before the final, shocking reveals, suspicions of murder land on quite a number of people; Will barely escapes a burning building and going over a waterfall; Faith has an unwanted equine experience; another person dies; to their detriment, people do a lot of drinking; and Will and Sara end up with a honeymoon dinner party story to beat all.
The narrative is carried mainly by Will, Sara, Faith and Mercy, with some back story provided by Mercy’s unsent letters to her son. Faith’s inner monologue offers light relief, as does any dialogue with Amanda and, in fact, any scene that features Faith seems to border on slapstick. Karin Slaughter never disappoints.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Harper Collins UK.
Mercy McAlpine, currently managing the resort, has been stabbed multiple times and left on the lake shore. Neither Will nor Sara can stand by and do nothing.
It turns out that, hours earlier, Mercy reacted very badly to the plans her father has for the resort: threats flew back and forth, and quite a few of those present at the family meeting would have a strong motive for killing her. And something Mercy has not shared with anyone else, but one of the guests also might have a serious issue with her.
When a wild storm cuts off road access, Will sends an SOS to his GBI boss, and Faith Mitchell has a locked-room situation she’s always wondered how she might handle. An added wrinkle is that one of the McAlpine family turns out to be the fellow inmate at the children’s home who made Will’s life hell. Dave McAlpine, first adopted then married into the family, and now Mercy’s ex, is known to have often been violent with her, and the prime suspect in Will’s book.
Would that it was quite so cut and dried. People grieve differently, but even for such a dysfunctional group of nasty people, Mercy’s family are behaving very strangely, and when Will and Sara reveal they are not a mechanic and a high school chemistry teacher, the reactions of both hosts and guests are not exactly benign. Of course, they aren’t the only ones who have lied about who they are, or what they do.
My oh my, pre-book a chiropractic appointment before you start this one: there are so many twists, turns, red herrings and surprises, you’ll need it. Before the final, shocking reveals, suspicions of murder land on quite a number of people; Will barely escapes a burning building and going over a waterfall; Faith has an unwanted equine experience; another person dies; to their detriment, people do a lot of drinking; and Will and Sara end up with a honeymoon dinner party story to beat all.
The narrative is carried mainly by Will, Sara, Faith and Mercy, with some back story provided by Mercy’s unsent letters to her son. Faith’s inner monologue offers light relief, as does any dialogue with Amanda and, in fact, any scene that features Faith seems to border on slapstick. Karin Slaughter never disappoints.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Harper Collins UK.
July 27, 2025
Wow! Karin Slaughter truly has a way of story building. I was hooked from the beginning. This may be a lengthy book, but it's worth every moment. If you're not paying attention, you'll miss some of the minor details that turn into larger details later on in the story. It kept me on the edge of my seat, trying to figure out who did it. I loved the suspenseful aspects of this book! It truly makes you feel like you're there with the characters! 4.5 stars!
I received this ARC from NetGalley and William Morrow to read/review. All of the statements above are my true opinions after fully reading this book.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and William Morrow to read/review. All of the statements above are my true opinions after fully reading this book.
July 25, 2024
Dear Karin,
I do not care how many characters think - weirdly and intrusively and not-even-pertaining-to-anything-relevant - about Sara Linton’s attractiveness.
She is a Mary Sue and her and Will’s nauseating relationship is grating on my last nerve. NO ONE talks to their partner like that. They don’t even sound like human beings!
Fuuuucking stop it.
I do not care how many characters think - weirdly and intrusively and not-even-pertaining-to-anything-relevant - about Sara Linton’s attractiveness.
She is a Mary Sue and her and Will’s nauseating relationship is grating on my last nerve. NO ONE talks to their partner like that. They don’t even sound like human beings!
Fuuuucking stop it.
November 27, 2024
Triggers up the yang, gross ones too. Typical Slaughter. Review soon
The Will Trent from the TV show is not what I picture him to look like while I'm reading/listening, like at all. Not even close to being the same height either.
The Will Trent from the TV show is not what I picture him to look like while I'm reading/listening, like at all. Not even close to being the same height either.
Want to read
February 23, 2024Obviously reading it, but after what Sara was subjected to in the last book, it'll be with a lot reservations. Please please please stop retconning Grant County history--these characters are plenty interesting enough to move forward with in new stories rather than forcing them and us to constantly look back.
January 6, 2025
Wherein I realize that I skipped one, maybe two Will Trent stories...
September 27, 2024
When GBI investigator Will Trent and medical examiner Sara Linton arrived at McAlpine Lodge for their honeymoon, they were looking forward to a time of relaxation, romance and bonding with nature. Never in their wildest dreams did they imagine someone being murdered on their first night, with Will finding the body of Mercy McAlpine as she breathed her last. Their immediate suspect was Mercy's ex, a man Will knew from the past, and when the local cop arrived, he immediately came to the same conclusion. He also declined any help from GBI, Will or Sara, not even willing to interview the guests.
When Faith and Amanda arrived, it was obvious access to the Lodge was limited. With a storm on them, Will and Sara did what they did best; their investigation began to turn up grave secrets, deep and dark lies, and the realisation there was a murderer among them. They had many suspects, but everyone had a reason to murder Mercy. Would they find the answers before someone else died?
This Is Why We Lied is the 12th in the Will Trent series by Karin Slaughter and it was excellent. Set on top of a mountain, the beautiful scenery, native wildlife and vast aloneness was a perfect spot for murder. Will and Sara are happy, content and have come together as one in this episode - it was great to see. Until work disrupted them, their honeymoon was put to one side, and the race was on. Highly recommended.
When Faith and Amanda arrived, it was obvious access to the Lodge was limited. With a storm on them, Will and Sara did what they did best; their investigation began to turn up grave secrets, deep and dark lies, and the realisation there was a murderer among them. They had many suspects, but everyone had a reason to murder Mercy. Would they find the answers before someone else died?
This Is Why We Lied is the 12th in the Will Trent series by Karin Slaughter and it was excellent. Set on top of a mountain, the beautiful scenery, native wildlife and vast aloneness was a perfect spot for murder. Will and Sara are happy, content and have come together as one in this episode - it was great to see. Until work disrupted them, their honeymoon was put to one side, and the race was on. Highly recommended.
February 4, 2025
I already am salivating for the next book! Really well done, as usual, even though I found this a bit unnecessarily complicated. I love the relationship between Sarah and Will, Will and Amanda, and Will and Faith. These are some of the best developed in today’s writing and what makes these books so good for me. 4.5 stars
November 16, 2024
Another solid Will Trent murder mystery. This time involving one very creepy family.
August 29, 2025
Wow, another absolutely fabulous instalment in the Will Trent series. Karin Slaughter really knows how to write a compelling story.
Sarah Linton and Will Trent are on Honeymoon at The McAlpine Lodge in a beautiful setting in the mountains, however not long after arriving a scream pierces the tranquil night, and Mercy, the daughter of the owners is murdered, after having been stabbed multiple times.
The lodge is run and owned by the McAlpine family, who have to be the most toxic and hateful family that I’ve ever come across in book form! As Will dives head first into the investigation, long buried family secrets start to surface and the author draws you down multiple paths as to who the murderer could be. There is also a side story about Mercy’s best friend Gabby, who was killed in a tragic car accident, the car which Mercy had been driving.
There are further twists, when not all the guests at the lodge are who they say they are.
It’s a locked room type of mystery, with the tension ramped up high, betrayal, lies and a truly toxic family, with twists and turns that kept me guessing right to the very end.
It’s a fairly long book, but it gives time to really get under the skin of the characters, who are all fully formed, which makes it even more compelling, and I love the Will Trent series, as it’s like catching up with old friends.
It’s a heartbreakingly tragic story, and it was excellently narrated by Kathleen Early.
Sarah Linton and Will Trent are on Honeymoon at The McAlpine Lodge in a beautiful setting in the mountains, however not long after arriving a scream pierces the tranquil night, and Mercy, the daughter of the owners is murdered, after having been stabbed multiple times.
The lodge is run and owned by the McAlpine family, who have to be the most toxic and hateful family that I’ve ever come across in book form! As Will dives head first into the investigation, long buried family secrets start to surface and the author draws you down multiple paths as to who the murderer could be. There is also a side story about Mercy’s best friend Gabby, who was killed in a tragic car accident, the car which Mercy had been driving.
There are further twists, when not all the guests at the lodge are who they say they are.
It’s a locked room type of mystery, with the tension ramped up high, betrayal, lies and a truly toxic family, with twists and turns that kept me guessing right to the very end.
It’s a fairly long book, but it gives time to really get under the skin of the characters, who are all fully formed, which makes it even more compelling, and I love the Will Trent series, as it’s like catching up with old friends.
It’s a heartbreakingly tragic story, and it was excellently narrated by Kathleen Early.
November 28, 2024
Story 4.5 stars**
Audio 5 stars**
Narrator Kathleen Early
I’m all caught up with this series! Now I have to be patient and wait for the next installment and honestly it will be worth it! Karin Slaughter has become one of my favorite authors and Will Trent one of my top series. This series has me in a chokehold it’s raw, gritty at times I had to stop because some of the cases were so hard to read. But it also has so much heart, so many emotions with all these beloved characters who have gone through hell and back.
This particular book was brutal! The ending wasn’t as shocking but it dint matter at all.
It’s always about how the case unfolds at least with Karin’s books. It’s funny how the other detectives think of Will as weird and aloof but they don’t realize he actually feels too much for each victim.
Can’t wait for the next book!
Audio 5 stars**
Narrator Kathleen Early
I’m all caught up with this series! Now I have to be patient and wait for the next installment and honestly it will be worth it! Karin Slaughter has become one of my favorite authors and Will Trent one of my top series. This series has me in a chokehold it’s raw, gritty at times I had to stop because some of the cases were so hard to read. But it also has so much heart, so many emotions with all these beloved characters who have gone through hell and back.
This particular book was brutal! The ending wasn’t as shocking but it dint matter at all.
It’s always about how the case unfolds at least with Karin’s books. It’s funny how the other detectives think of Will as weird and aloof but they don’t realize he actually feels too much for each victim.
Can’t wait for the next book!
October 7, 2024
Loved this 12th instalment of the series! You know how sometimes a long-running series will start to go a bit stale? Not the case here! Remember, this series followed the Grant County one, which is where we were first introduced to Will's boo Sarah, and there 6 of those. So, point being the writing in this one is just as smart and exciting as ever.
No spoilers but there is, as always, a murder that needs solving. I do not like it when I can solve the crime easily and early in the novel, and that was not an issue with this one! I was kept guessing right up until the big reveal. Fans of this genre, you need not have read the prior novels to enjoy this one as a stand-alone.
Note to devotees of the tv show, if you haven't read any of the books yet, best not to start here, instead read the series in order.
No spoilers but there is, as always, a murder that needs solving. I do not like it when I can solve the crime easily and early in the novel, and that was not an issue with this one! I was kept guessing right up until the big reveal. Fans of this genre, you need not have read the prior novels to enjoy this one as a stand-alone.
Note to devotees of the tv show, if you haven't read any of the books yet, best not to start here, instead read the series in order.
December 13, 2025
3.5 Stars
Will and Sara are celebrating their honeymoon at a mountain retreat that boasts no Wi-Fi or television. Of course a dead body ends up ruining their honeymoon. Being that it is completely cut off from the rest of the world it leaves limited suspects for Will to investigate as well as a connection to his past.
It felt like this novel took forever to get moving. Faith and Amanda don’t make a presence until at least a third of the way into the novel. Faith was all excited to solve her first locked room mystery. I sadly was not as locked room mysteries are not my favorite. I’m also probably gonna get a little flack for this, but I’m not a huge Will and Sara fan, I like them each as characters, but I don’t like them together. I just don’t see it. But that’s just me.
I feel like this series may have run its course. This is definitely my least favorite of the series. That doesn’t mean I won’t pick up another one if it comes out, I totally will, of course.
Will and Sara are celebrating their honeymoon at a mountain retreat that boasts no Wi-Fi or television. Of course a dead body ends up ruining their honeymoon. Being that it is completely cut off from the rest of the world it leaves limited suspects for Will to investigate as well as a connection to his past.
It felt like this novel took forever to get moving. Faith and Amanda don’t make a presence until at least a third of the way into the novel. Faith was all excited to solve her first locked room mystery. I sadly was not as locked room mysteries are not my favorite. I’m also probably gonna get a little flack for this, but I’m not a huge Will and Sara fan, I like them each as characters, but I don’t like them together. I just don’t see it. But that’s just me.
I feel like this series may have run its course. This is definitely my least favorite of the series. That doesn’t mean I won’t pick up another one if it comes out, I totally will, of course.
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