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The Burden of Truth
Jennifer Vincent has very few memories of her mother. Then she meets Detective Max Cisco.
Anonymous receipt of a dated murder confession has Cisco reviewing case files from the 1972 incident at Delano Manor. But he won’t uncover the entire truth about what happened. Only flashbacks reveal the secrets of those having failed her mother, and why lying to Jennifer was necessary to protect her.
Now Jennifer has questions she was never meant to ask. As for what Cisco learns, it’s enough to make this first homicide investigation his last.
Anonymous receipt of a dated murder confession has Cisco reviewing case files from the 1972 incident at Delano Manor. But he won’t uncover the entire truth about what happened. Only flashbacks reveal the secrets of those having failed her mother, and why lying to Jennifer was necessary to protect her.
Now Jennifer has questions she was never meant to ask. As for what Cisco learns, it’s enough to make this first homicide investigation his last.
422 pages, Paperback
Published June 20, 2024
2 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
About the author
Suzan Denoncourt
2 books16 followersSeasoned business executive turned thriller writer. Author of the newly released Cisco series, wherein Detective Max Cisco is neither the central figure nor is his case the core plot of these stand-alone novels. How he intersects with the main storyline is what takes the intrigue to a new level.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
September 28, 2025
Suzan Denoncourt had me hooked from the very first line: “Secrets are like bubble gum stuck to the underside of a classroom desk.” That single sentence perfectly sets the tone for what follows — a story about the way truths, lies, and hidden pain cling to people across time, refusing to be ignored.
What I loved most about The Burden of Truth is how tightly and intentionally written it is. There’s no filler, no pointless red herrings, and no gratuitous or grotesque imagery. Every page moves the story forward, and every revelation carries weight. Denoncourt manages to explore deeply common, real, and challenging issues while treating them with nuance and care.
The book spans multiple decades and perspectives, creating an emotional rollercoaster that is as heart-wrenching as it is compelling. While the subject matter is heavy, the writing never sensationalizes. Instead, it navigates those themes with empathy and respect, guiding readers toward a conclusion that is both realistic and hopeful. The happily-ever-after may not be fairy-tale perfect, but it is genuine and satisfying.
By the time I reached the final line… “Grateful to those who spared me the burden of an uglier truth.” I felt the weight of the journey and the relief of resolution.
I recommend The Burden of Truth for readers who enjoy mystery and thriller stories that dig deep into the human side of secrets. It’s a powerful read, best suited for those comfortable with emotionally charged themes, and one I won’t soon forget.
What I loved most about The Burden of Truth is how tightly and intentionally written it is. There’s no filler, no pointless red herrings, and no gratuitous or grotesque imagery. Every page moves the story forward, and every revelation carries weight. Denoncourt manages to explore deeply common, real, and challenging issues while treating them with nuance and care.
The book spans multiple decades and perspectives, creating an emotional rollercoaster that is as heart-wrenching as it is compelling. While the subject matter is heavy, the writing never sensationalizes. Instead, it navigates those themes with empathy and respect, guiding readers toward a conclusion that is both realistic and hopeful. The happily-ever-after may not be fairy-tale perfect, but it is genuine and satisfying.
By the time I reached the final line… “Grateful to those who spared me the burden of an uglier truth.” I felt the weight of the journey and the relief of resolution.
I recommend The Burden of Truth for readers who enjoy mystery and thriller stories that dig deep into the human side of secrets. It’s a powerful read, best suited for those comfortable with emotionally charged themes, and one I won’t soon forget.
September 25, 2025
Rating 4.5
Jennifer Vincent is a loyal daughter, loving wife, and doting mother living a relatively average life.
Max Cisco is a detective assigned his first homicide case after an anonymous murder confession comes across his desk.
Jennifer and the Detective cross paths when a case from 1972 is reopened, causing Jennifer to question her childhood and the mother she barely remembers.
I really enjoyed this fast-paced mystery and all of the twists and turns throughout. There are many characters but they are all used so well and are superbly developed. The characters were relatable and I found myself genuinely caring about many of them and their eventual outcome. I love the journey Detective Cisco is on and his eventual realization of his true calling. I enjoyed that everything Suzan wrote was with purpose. She does not lead the reader on a wild goose chase or send the reader on the wrong path. Every word is written with the bigger picture in mind and I finished completely satisfied and resolved with the outcome of the story. I look forward to reading Book 2!
The Burden of Truth contains...
🗣️ Multiple POV
💔 Family Secrets
🩷 LGBTQIA+ Representation
😰 Suspenseful Plot
⏰ Multiple Timelines
🕵️♀️ Mystery
📚 Excellent Character Development
📜 Intriguing Plot
Jennifer Vincent is a loyal daughter, loving wife, and doting mother living a relatively average life.
Max Cisco is a detective assigned his first homicide case after an anonymous murder confession comes across his desk.
Jennifer and the Detective cross paths when a case from 1972 is reopened, causing Jennifer to question her childhood and the mother she barely remembers.
I really enjoyed this fast-paced mystery and all of the twists and turns throughout. There are many characters but they are all used so well and are superbly developed. The characters were relatable and I found myself genuinely caring about many of them and their eventual outcome. I love the journey Detective Cisco is on and his eventual realization of his true calling. I enjoyed that everything Suzan wrote was with purpose. She does not lead the reader on a wild goose chase or send the reader on the wrong path. Every word is written with the bigger picture in mind and I finished completely satisfied and resolved with the outcome of the story. I look forward to reading Book 2!
The Burden of Truth contains...
🗣️ Multiple POV
💔 Family Secrets
🩷 LGBTQIA+ Representation
😰 Suspenseful Plot
⏰ Multiple Timelines
🕵️♀️ Mystery
📚 Excellent Character Development
📜 Intriguing Plot
September 30, 2025
4/5
This was a wild ride in a great way! What I mean is that this story absolutely keeps you hooked; it creates an atmosphere and feeling that isn't 'wild' in an action-packed way, yet there is so much going on that you can't help but keep turning pages as you learn new details and secrets with every new chapter.
It was an odd feeling; at multiple times during the story, since readers already know about the general murder/crime, you (and the characters, too!) are constantly wondering what is keeping the case investigation going. Cisco repeatedly asks himself why his boss is still insisting on him digging into the long-past case. Yet, again, you can't help but keep turning the pages. Page after page, the story you think you know becomes somehow even more complex, more developed, more nuanced because of the characters' evolving motivations and secrets.
All of that speaks entirely to Denoncourt's writing skills. Not only is the writing itself gripping, the story as a whole and its characters are incredibly layered and executed. Despite a plot and crime case that appears to give readers all the answers, the characters are the spotlight. Yes, you go in knowing what the crime is; you go in knowing this isn't a story about someone new trying to evade danger/violence. This is about the characters. And you get EVERYTHING. It is beyond impressive how Denoncourt manages to construct multiple characters that are interconnected yet so distinct in their experiences, feelings, beliefs, and motivations. With chapters that alternate points of view and timelines, I loved getting to dive into each character. I was absolutely immersed in the story; I knew things certain characters didn't about the story and even other characters, which gave me a much richer understanding of how/why each was feeling and behaving as they were.
This is a story with so many elements that are all equally resonant. It speaks to family, friendship, sacrifice, violence, vulnerability, loyalty, performativity, sexuality, and so much more. It comments on what we will do for those we love, how intentions and behaviors can be misrepresented and misinterpreted, how it is sometimes necessary to hide things from others or be willingly painted as 'the villain' to best keep them safe. This story MEANS something at the end, especially regarding family dynamics. I think each person will take away something incredibly personal after finishing the story, especially depending on how they relate to different characters, events, or other aspects of the story. I could resonate with so many of the topics Denoncourt tackles in this story, and it gave me a new perspective on my own experiences and relationships, especially my relationship with my parents.
I came to really care for so many of these characters and loved getting put through the ringer as I continuously questioned them, found out new details that entirely turned my 'judgment' on its head, and had to grapple with how, just like in real life, people are never one thing. Nobody is all good or bad, and everyone is truly going through something others never know about.
The structure was something I was really impressed by. As someone who can often struggle with multiple timelines and perspectives, Denoncourt's writing made this very easy for me to follow. Jumping from the 1960s and 1970s to 2003 was easy to distinguish because each follows a distinct part of the overall/family's storyline, as well as because each timeline focuses on different characters/perspectives. I also loved how each timeline offered details that connected to the other in seamless ways and offered clarity or more complexity to the other. The pacing was great; I love fast-paced stories, and since we were constantly getting new details in this story, I was HOOKED.
I don't want to comment much on the details of what happens, as I truly feel that going in blind is the best way to enjoy this story. You truly learn new things on seemingly every single page, and each reveal or revelation is impactful to not only the story but the reading experience. Every time I opened this book, I had a page next to me writing down theories and notes. I haven't read a book in a long time that shocks me so many times as this story did. I truly felt like I got to know about Heather, Jenny, and the Delano family with ALL of the grisly details and truths that hide underneath a facade of perfection. Again, the details we get about the characters and events are impactful; there are MULTIPLE sides to every story, to every person, to every family, to every experience.
What was just okay for me:
All of that said, given my detail-oriented nature when it comes to stories and my tendency to try to always deduce what's 'really' happening (which this story pointedly comments on the inability to do, a meaningful message), I was able to guess some of the 'reveals,' and I quickly guessed what the 'major twist' was early on in the novel.
Another aspect that was 'just okay' for me was how a certain topic (not specifying due to not wanting to spoil anything) was handled by some of the characters (particularly in Chapter 17). It didn't sit right with me how the conversation in that chapter went, yet I also know that it reflects reactions many people genuinely have to the topic.
The only other thing that I struggled with was getting lost towards the end. Denoncourt does a great job overall of making the legal/crime/detective element of the story incredibly accessible (to reiterate, this is truly a character-driven novel), but I did find myself becoming confused towards some latter chapters when they brought aspects of the legal process, financial documents, and the like. I was still able to follow the story, though!
Finally, I did find that I at times (toward the end, as things got more and more complex) struggled to remember which characters knew what, and some of the details were a bit hard for me to follow, so I had to reread some sections a couple times to understand what Cisco's theories and paths of thought were.
Overall:
Overall, I would recommend this book undoubtedly to anyone who wants a story that will keep you hooked from beginning to end and wants to be continuously forced to reconstruct your understanding of both the story and characters as reveal after reveal shocks you!
This was a wild ride in a great way! What I mean is that this story absolutely keeps you hooked; it creates an atmosphere and feeling that isn't 'wild' in an action-packed way, yet there is so much going on that you can't help but keep turning pages as you learn new details and secrets with every new chapter.
It was an odd feeling; at multiple times during the story, since readers already know about the general murder/crime, you (and the characters, too!) are constantly wondering what is keeping the case investigation going. Cisco repeatedly asks himself why his boss is still insisting on him digging into the long-past case. Yet, again, you can't help but keep turning the pages. Page after page, the story you think you know becomes somehow even more complex, more developed, more nuanced because of the characters' evolving motivations and secrets.
All of that speaks entirely to Denoncourt's writing skills. Not only is the writing itself gripping, the story as a whole and its characters are incredibly layered and executed. Despite a plot and crime case that appears to give readers all the answers, the characters are the spotlight. Yes, you go in knowing what the crime is; you go in knowing this isn't a story about someone new trying to evade danger/violence. This is about the characters. And you get EVERYTHING. It is beyond impressive how Denoncourt manages to construct multiple characters that are interconnected yet so distinct in their experiences, feelings, beliefs, and motivations. With chapters that alternate points of view and timelines, I loved getting to dive into each character. I was absolutely immersed in the story; I knew things certain characters didn't about the story and even other characters, which gave me a much richer understanding of how/why each was feeling and behaving as they were.
This is a story with so many elements that are all equally resonant. It speaks to family, friendship, sacrifice, violence, vulnerability, loyalty, performativity, sexuality, and so much more. It comments on what we will do for those we love, how intentions and behaviors can be misrepresented and misinterpreted, how it is sometimes necessary to hide things from others or be willingly painted as 'the villain' to best keep them safe. This story MEANS something at the end, especially regarding family dynamics. I think each person will take away something incredibly personal after finishing the story, especially depending on how they relate to different characters, events, or other aspects of the story. I could resonate with so many of the topics Denoncourt tackles in this story, and it gave me a new perspective on my own experiences and relationships, especially my relationship with my parents.
I came to really care for so many of these characters and loved getting put through the ringer as I continuously questioned them, found out new details that entirely turned my 'judgment' on its head, and had to grapple with how, just like in real life, people are never one thing. Nobody is all good or bad, and everyone is truly going through something others never know about.
The structure was something I was really impressed by. As someone who can often struggle with multiple timelines and perspectives, Denoncourt's writing made this very easy for me to follow. Jumping from the 1960s and 1970s to 2003 was easy to distinguish because each follows a distinct part of the overall/family's storyline, as well as because each timeline focuses on different characters/perspectives. I also loved how each timeline offered details that connected to the other in seamless ways and offered clarity or more complexity to the other. The pacing was great; I love fast-paced stories, and since we were constantly getting new details in this story, I was HOOKED.
I don't want to comment much on the details of what happens, as I truly feel that going in blind is the best way to enjoy this story. You truly learn new things on seemingly every single page, and each reveal or revelation is impactful to not only the story but the reading experience. Every time I opened this book, I had a page next to me writing down theories and notes. I haven't read a book in a long time that shocks me so many times as this story did. I truly felt like I got to know about Heather, Jenny, and the Delano family with ALL of the grisly details and truths that hide underneath a facade of perfection. Again, the details we get about the characters and events are impactful; there are MULTIPLE sides to every story, to every person, to every family, to every experience.
What was just okay for me:
All of that said, given my detail-oriented nature when it comes to stories and my tendency to try to always deduce what's 'really' happening (which this story pointedly comments on the inability to do, a meaningful message), I was able to guess some of the 'reveals,' and I quickly guessed what the 'major twist' was early on in the novel.
Another aspect that was 'just okay' for me was how a certain topic (not specifying due to not wanting to spoil anything) was handled by some of the characters (particularly in Chapter 17). It didn't sit right with me how the conversation in that chapter went, yet I also know that it reflects reactions many people genuinely have to the topic.
The only other thing that I struggled with was getting lost towards the end. Denoncourt does a great job overall of making the legal/crime/detective element of the story incredibly accessible (to reiterate, this is truly a character-driven novel), but I did find myself becoming confused towards some latter chapters when they brought aspects of the legal process, financial documents, and the like. I was still able to follow the story, though!
Finally, I did find that I at times (toward the end, as things got more and more complex) struggled to remember which characters knew what, and some of the details were a bit hard for me to follow, so I had to reread some sections a couple times to understand what Cisco's theories and paths of thought were.
Overall:
Overall, I would recommend this book undoubtedly to anyone who wants a story that will keep you hooked from beginning to end and wants to be continuously forced to reconstruct your understanding of both the story and characters as reveal after reveal shocks you!
July 24, 2024
The Burden of Truth is a captivating novel that promises an engaging and thrilling read. With a well-crafted plot and a gripping narrative, this book effortlessly keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.
The story unfolds with a relentless pace, drawing you into a world of intrigue and suspense from the very first page. Suzan, the author skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, creating a tapestry of mystery and emotion that is hard to put down. Each chapter unfolds seamlessly, revealing new layers to the central mystery while maintaining a sense of urgency that propels the story forward.
One of the book's strengths lies in its excellent use of vocabulary and descriptive language. The author's command of language is making every scene come alive with detail and atmosphere.
The Burden of Truth is undeniably a page-turner, perfect for a vacation read. This book will captivate you with its suspenseful plot and well-developed characters.
Overall, The Burden of Truth is a must-read for anyone seeking a well-written and compelling novel. Perfectly suited for holiday reading, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The story unfolds with a relentless pace, drawing you into a world of intrigue and suspense from the very first page. Suzan, the author skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, creating a tapestry of mystery and emotion that is hard to put down. Each chapter unfolds seamlessly, revealing new layers to the central mystery while maintaining a sense of urgency that propels the story forward.
One of the book's strengths lies in its excellent use of vocabulary and descriptive language. The author's command of language is making every scene come alive with detail and atmosphere.
The Burden of Truth is undeniably a page-turner, perfect for a vacation read. This book will captivate you with its suspenseful plot and well-developed characters.
Overall, The Burden of Truth is a must-read for anyone seeking a well-written and compelling novel. Perfectly suited for holiday reading, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.
September 26, 2025
A debut novel, in the thriller/mystery genre, with multiple timelines, multiple POVs, and big bad family secrets around every corner- that, my friends, is The Burden of Truth.
The wonderful author @suzan really brought together so many different elements to make this book work! I loved the fact that everyone felt like an MC- it was a tale about family and secrets, less about one person’s specific story. Though I predicted some of the revelations (through no fault of my own- my brain does that without permission!), I really enjoyed all the tie-ups and interwoven plot lines.
The scene setting and background characterization were most definitely the highlights of this book- I knew who these people were, and could see why they made the choices they did. That made the multi-timelines/POVs really clear cut and understandable, which I’m so grateful for! I could’ve used a little more emotional depth, especially in some of the more triggering conversations about heavy themes in the book. I also didn’t look for a TW list, but I think it might be a good idea for some readers! [TW: grief, cancer/illness, death, abuse (s*xual/familial/emotional/physical), dr*g abuse, r*ape, assault (s*xual/physical)]
I LOVE a book that says “whose fault is this, really?”, even at the end. Could I pick someone to blame? Yes. Will I? No! Because life is messy and complicated and people do crazy things for love, or guilt, or self preservation, or just because they’re having a bad day.
If you’re looking for a story with an actually engaging bread crumb trail that keeps you flipping for 400 pages, The Burden of Truth is for you!!
The wonderful author @suzan really brought together so many different elements to make this book work! I loved the fact that everyone felt like an MC- it was a tale about family and secrets, less about one person’s specific story. Though I predicted some of the revelations (through no fault of my own- my brain does that without permission!), I really enjoyed all the tie-ups and interwoven plot lines.
The scene setting and background characterization were most definitely the highlights of this book- I knew who these people were, and could see why they made the choices they did. That made the multi-timelines/POVs really clear cut and understandable, which I’m so grateful for! I could’ve used a little more emotional depth, especially in some of the more triggering conversations about heavy themes in the book. I also didn’t look for a TW list, but I think it might be a good idea for some readers! [TW: grief, cancer/illness, death, abuse (s*xual/familial/emotional/physical), dr*g abuse, r*ape, assault (s*xual/physical)]
I LOVE a book that says “whose fault is this, really?”, even at the end. Could I pick someone to blame? Yes. Will I? No! Because life is messy and complicated and people do crazy things for love, or guilt, or self preservation, or just because they’re having a bad day.
If you’re looking for a story with an actually engaging bread crumb trail that keeps you flipping for 400 pages, The Burden of Truth is for you!!
July 11, 2024
Loved this story. Twists and turns that keep you on your toes. I couldn’t put it down and wanted to read it as soon as I woke up in the morning . I love how the characters are described and the back and forth in each chapters makes you understand the psychology behind every person !!
October 13, 2025
With its twisty turns, this book takes you on a journey as if you're in the front seat, living and breathing with every character.
Jennifer Vincent, wife, mother of 3, and accountant is living her busy life when there's an odd occurrence. Detective Max Cisco leaves a message with her elderly father's care center, asking if he can speak with someone. Due to her father's cognition and memory failing, answers are not easy to come by and the case is hard to solve. What will Jennifer discover about her family's past?
While this book jumps timelines the entire book, I found it very easy to follow. The characters felt authentic and easy to connect to. I never felt "duped" or led down the wrong path. The plot was interesting and held my attention. Reading this book in a day was easy and fun. I had no major issues with it!
I would recommend this to anyone wanting an escape with a bit of mystery and intrigue thrown in. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the Cisco series.
Thank you for the physical book in exchange for an honest review. It was a pleasure e-meeting the author and having discussions regarding the book!
Jennifer Vincent, wife, mother of 3, and accountant is living her busy life when there's an odd occurrence. Detective Max Cisco leaves a message with her elderly father's care center, asking if he can speak with someone. Due to her father's cognition and memory failing, answers are not easy to come by and the case is hard to solve. What will Jennifer discover about her family's past?
While this book jumps timelines the entire book, I found it very easy to follow. The characters felt authentic and easy to connect to. I never felt "duped" or led down the wrong path. The plot was interesting and held my attention. Reading this book in a day was easy and fun. I had no major issues with it!
I would recommend this to anyone wanting an escape with a bit of mystery and intrigue thrown in. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the Cisco series.
Thank you for the physical book in exchange for an honest review. It was a pleasure e-meeting the author and having discussions regarding the book!
October 12, 2025
Where do I even start with The Burden of Truth?
It’s layered, emotional, and the kind of mystery that makes you pause and ask, what would I do if I were in their shoes? (Which I literally did after finishing the last page.)
The story moves between past and present, which I loved. Each timeline slowly fills in the blanks, showing how far people will go to protect someone they love…or to protect themselves from the truth.
There are several twists, some I saw coming and others that completely caught me off guard. It’s not a fast, action-heavy thriller, but a slow unraveling of secrets and guilt that lingers long after the final page.
It made me think about how much we hide to avoid pain, and how sometimes the truth can be its own kind of burden.
It’s layered, emotional, and the kind of mystery that makes you pause and ask, what would I do if I were in their shoes? (Which I literally did after finishing the last page.)
The story moves between past and present, which I loved. Each timeline slowly fills in the blanks, showing how far people will go to protect someone they love…or to protect themselves from the truth.
There are several twists, some I saw coming and others that completely caught me off guard. It’s not a fast, action-heavy thriller, but a slow unraveling of secrets and guilt that lingers long after the final page.
It made me think about how much we hide to avoid pain, and how sometimes the truth can be its own kind of burden.
July 16, 2024
Excellent new author. Great character development. I really liked Cisco, very glad there will be sequels. Great multigenerational story with intelligent intriguing plot. A must read! Very entertaining. Looking forward to book 2!
September 3, 2024
This is a must read! I cannot say enough. The character building and plot, wow! I could not put down the book and read it in a matter of just a few days! I cannot wait for the next one!
November 6, 2024
Congratulations Suzan Denoncourt on your captivating debut novel!
October 12, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ review
“Secrets are like bubble gum stuck to the underside of a classroom desk.”
I was hooked from the very first line of this book. The writing is clear and descriptive without ever feeling over the top, no unnecessary fluff. Told through multiple POVs that move between past and present, it took me a few chapters to find my footing, but once I did, the connections between the characters and timelines became fascinatingly intricate.
One of the most compelling aspects of this story is how it explores complicated relationships, whether romantic, friendship, and/or family. Two in particular stood out to me. The father-daughter bond between Connor and Jennifer. Their imperfect but heartfelt moments together often left me smiling.
The second relationship is a complicated friendship built on deep love, loyalty, and ultimately, sacrifice. It’s one that really stuck with me, highlighting not only the imbalances that can exist between two people but also the lengths someone might go to for those they care about. Ultimately, every relationship in this book was memorable whether for the good they brought or the damage they caused.
This book had me asking questions almost immediately, but what I loved most is that it never felt like a wild goose chase for answers. The twists still hit hard, even when I had an idea of what was coming. I often knew what might happen, but the how left my jaw on the floor, more than once. It reminded me exactly why I fell in love with mystery/thrillers in the first place.
The Burden of Truth is a story about love, loss, justice (and injustice), regret, and ultimately the burden of truth. It’s emotional, thought-provoking, and full of twists that stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page.
“Secrets are like bubble gum stuck to the underside of a classroom desk.”
I was hooked from the very first line of this book. The writing is clear and descriptive without ever feeling over the top, no unnecessary fluff. Told through multiple POVs that move between past and present, it took me a few chapters to find my footing, but once I did, the connections between the characters and timelines became fascinatingly intricate.
One of the most compelling aspects of this story is how it explores complicated relationships, whether romantic, friendship, and/or family. Two in particular stood out to me. The father-daughter bond between Connor and Jennifer. Their imperfect but heartfelt moments together often left me smiling.
The second relationship is a complicated friendship built on deep love, loyalty, and ultimately, sacrifice. It’s one that really stuck with me, highlighting not only the imbalances that can exist between two people but also the lengths someone might go to for those they care about. Ultimately, every relationship in this book was memorable whether for the good they brought or the damage they caused.
This book had me asking questions almost immediately, but what I loved most is that it never felt like a wild goose chase for answers. The twists still hit hard, even when I had an idea of what was coming. I often knew what might happen, but the how left my jaw on the floor, more than once. It reminded me exactly why I fell in love with mystery/thrillers in the first place.
The Burden of Truth is a story about love, loss, justice (and injustice), regret, and ultimately the burden of truth. It’s emotional, thought-provoking, and full of twists that stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page.
October 7, 2025
I love a good thriller, and this story did not disappoint. The multiple points of view and shifting timelines really made this book shine! Each switch pulled me in deeper, leaving me eager to see how everything would connect. I loved how the layers of the story slowly unfolded, keeping me intrigued and craving more with every chapter.
While I did figure out some of the twists early on, that didn’t take away from the fun of watching the secrets unravel. The drama, the tension, and those "oh" moments had me hooked. The character development was fantastic, too. I really enjoyed watching each person’s story build and evolve through the timelines.
There were a few slower moments where my attention drifted, but the suspense and emotional depth always pulled me right back in. Overall, this was such a compelling read, and I’m excited to see what Suzan does next!
While I did figure out some of the twists early on, that didn’t take away from the fun of watching the secrets unravel. The drama, the tension, and those "oh" moments had me hooked. The character development was fantastic, too. I really enjoyed watching each person’s story build and evolve through the timelines.
There were a few slower moments where my attention drifted, but the suspense and emotional depth always pulled me right back in. Overall, this was such a compelling read, and I’m excited to see what Suzan does next!
October 12, 2025
The Burden of Truth is an engrossing, emotionally layered mystery that weaves family secrets, guilt, and buried history into a tense and satisfying story. Denoncourt’s multi-timeline structure keeps the suspense steady, while her main characters feel flawed, believable, and deeply human.
The pacing lags a little in some anreas of the book and a few side characters could use more depth and development, but the emotional stakes and atmosphere more than make up for it. I absolutely loved the way this story slowly unfolds over time, Thoughtful, darkly elegant, and full of quiet surprises, this is a strong debut that promises even better things ahead.
Elegant, introspective, and quietly haunting, The Burden of Truth marks an impressive debut that lingers well after the final page.
The pacing lags a little in some anreas of the book and a few side characters could use more depth and development, but the emotional stakes and atmosphere more than make up for it. I absolutely loved the way this story slowly unfolds over time, Thoughtful, darkly elegant, and full of quiet surprises, this is a strong debut that promises even better things ahead.
Elegant, introspective, and quietly haunting, The Burden of Truth marks an impressive debut that lingers well after the final page.
October 3, 2025
I really enjoyed this story—it kept me on my toes from beginning to end. I never quite knew what was going to happen next, and I loved the way the truth slowly unraveled in front of me piece by piece. The characters are so well written and thoughtfully developed; we get to see them in all their layers, both at their best and at their worst, which made them feel very real.
That said, there were moments where the pacing felt a little slow, and while the ending worked in some ways, it didn’t fully satisfy me in terms of reconciliation (no spoilers here!). Still, the journey was compelling enough that I stayed hooked, and George in particular ended up being my favorite character.
That said, there were moments where the pacing felt a little slow, and while the ending worked in some ways, it didn’t fully satisfy me in terms of reconciliation (no spoilers here!). Still, the journey was compelling enough that I stayed hooked, and George in particular ended up being my favorite character.
September 2, 2025
Loved the compelling plot twists, well-developed characters, and the clever ending.
A surprising reveal totally threw me.
Highly recommended!
Ps I rarely read every word and often skim through but not this writer. Every paragraph was significant.
Actually books that I find particularly interesting can be read multiple times, giving you pleasure each time. This is definitely the case for this one!
A surprising reveal totally threw me.
Highly recommended!
Ps I rarely read every word and often skim through but not this writer. Every paragraph was significant.
Actually books that I find particularly interesting can be read multiple times, giving you pleasure each time. This is definitely the case for this one!
July 15, 2024
The book captured my attention immediately. Each chapter adds a new layer to the mystery and the story had me on my toes until the very end. The characters are complex and compelling. Very impressive novel from a first time author. I highly recommend for mystery and crime readers! I'm excited to see what is next to come from the author
October 11, 2025
I went into this expecting a solid thriller - twists, tension, secrets… What I wasn’t expecting was to be hit straight in the feels. This book is far more emotional than your typical crime story, quietly asking: What is truth? And is knowing it always the best thing? It genuinely made me stop and think, long after I’d closed the book.
The story unfolds through multiple POVs and timelines, and it’s woven together beautifully. Each voice adds a new layer, slowly peeling back decades of lies and consequences. There were moments where the pacing dipped, but it never lost me. I needed to know how it all came together.
The characters are incredibly well developed, across past and present. They felt painfully real - flawed, human and burdened by choices they can never unmake. Detective Cisco is such a fantastic character. I totally understand why he wasn’t the central focus, but I would happily read an entire book centred around him.
There are some genuinely shocking revelations in this story, but they’re delivered with a kind of quiet, haunting restraint - never for shock value, always with emotional weight. It’s not the kind of thriller that screams; it lingers.
A thought provoking, intricately crafted mystery. Really enjoyed this one.
The story unfolds through multiple POVs and timelines, and it’s woven together beautifully. Each voice adds a new layer, slowly peeling back decades of lies and consequences. There were moments where the pacing dipped, but it never lost me. I needed to know how it all came together.
The characters are incredibly well developed, across past and present. They felt painfully real - flawed, human and burdened by choices they can never unmake. Detective Cisco is such a fantastic character. I totally understand why he wasn’t the central focus, but I would happily read an entire book centred around him.
There are some genuinely shocking revelations in this story, but they’re delivered with a kind of quiet, haunting restraint - never for shock value, always with emotional weight. It’s not the kind of thriller that screams; it lingers.
A thought provoking, intricately crafted mystery. Really enjoyed this one.
October 13, 2025
This book had me hooked from the very first page. It was a
very well written book that will keep you engaged the entire time. I love how the book goes from past to present, it seems like it can be jarring at first but the author does it in a way that makes it seem almost normal. This is definitely a must read andone I would recommend to anyone who loves mystery/thrillers.
very well written book that will keep you engaged the entire time. I love how the book goes from past to present, it seems like it can be jarring at first but the author does it in a way that makes it seem almost normal. This is definitely a must read andone I would recommend to anyone who loves mystery/thrillers.
July 15, 2024
This novel is gripping. It has all the elements of a great mystery. The writing style flows beautifully as does the dual timeline.
The dynamic between characters is really good and the way it evolves for some of them is very unexpected
The dynamic between characters is really good and the way it evolves for some of them is very unexpected
August 28, 2024
As a huge fan of crime novels, I'm excited to find a new writer who’s nailed it right from the start! Cisco is an awesome detective—smart, caring, and relentless in his pursuit of the truth. This book grabs you right away and keeps you hooked until the very end. It’s a fantastic read, and I’m already looking forward to the next one!
September 17, 2024
Loved it!! Definitely a page turner and a must read!! I love how the whole story comes together fitting all the pieces together to make a great mystery read. If you don’t have it on your TBR list yet, add it! Excited for new reads to come from this upcoming author!
July 13, 2024
A great debut novel. Loved the twists throughout the developing storyline. Compelling characters and a real page turner.
Can’t wait for the next instalment.
Can’t wait for the next instalment.
July 15, 2024
Absolutely loved this book! 👍 I understand it’s the first of the Cisco series…can’t wait for the next one to be available! 😁
July 15, 2024
Great read!
Loved the story, the intrigue, the flashbacks and most of all, the characters. I can’t wait for the next novel!
Loved the story, the intrigue, the flashbacks and most of all, the characters. I can’t wait for the next novel!
January 20, 2025
I enjoyed reading this murder mystery that spans three generations and five decades. The characters were well developed and you can follow the time jumps easily.
September 28, 2025
I really enjoyed the multi-generational story and the twists and turns throughout the plot. As well as this Suzan’s characters develop and evolve throughout the story and it’s interesting to see this character development and feel as if we’re learning who they become, partly from the events they encounter. An interesting read that touches on some challenging topics without ever becoming explicit or crude.
October 13, 2025
A gripping story with twists and turns, shocking reveals at every corner, and emotional jerking characters. This book is a multi-POV, multi-timeline story that follows Cisco, a detective working a long-closed case after a confession is received. The author does a beautiful job at weaving the story together through the multi-POV/timeline and keeps you hooked throughout. You really feel for the characters, especially those like Heather and Dawn. I don't read a lot of books of this genre but this one has absolutely made me want to read more like it! Thank you Suzan Denoncourt and Early Ink Society for the book!
September 1, 2024
Beautifully written page turner with fabulous character development, unexpected twists and satisfying ending. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
October 11, 2024
Read it twice. Story gave me chills both times. Such an incredible read 👏🏻 Very impatiently waiting for book 2!!!
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