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Liars: Quirky coastal crime from Australia’s funniest former criminal lawyer
Everyone is guilty of something.
Handywoman Barb Young has lived in the sleepy coastal town of Bullford Point for over fifty years - and frankly, in that time, not much has happened, unless you count that business where a bush turkey managed to board the ferry a couple of years ago.
When Joe Griffiths returns from Sydney after six years of drug addiction, jail and, eventually, rehab, Barb offers him a job, hoping to help him turn his life around. However, when another new resident of Bullford Point is murdered, Joe becomes the prime suspect.
Barb thinks the police have got it wrong, but the more she tries to find the truth and clear Joe's name, the more confusing things become. Is the murder connected to the developers circling the waterfront home Joe inherited from his parents? Or to the true crime podcast he has been making about the death of his ex-girlfriend, seven years previously? And what was the information the murdered woman had been trying to horse-trade with police?
As her off-the-books investigation continues, Barb discovers that drowsy Bullford Point is actually a town full of secrets - and that even though she's known everyone in the close-knit community for years ... everybody lies.
PRAISE FOR LIARS:
'I loved it. Intriguing, genuinely mysterious and authentic. Such a well-told story, so surprising and rewarding. I honestly couldn't put it down. If you only read one book this year, make it this.' WIL ANDERSON
Handywoman Barb Young has lived in the sleepy coastal town of Bullford Point for over fifty years - and frankly, in that time, not much has happened, unless you count that business where a bush turkey managed to board the ferry a couple of years ago.
When Joe Griffiths returns from Sydney after six years of drug addiction, jail and, eventually, rehab, Barb offers him a job, hoping to help him turn his life around. However, when another new resident of Bullford Point is murdered, Joe becomes the prime suspect.
Barb thinks the police have got it wrong, but the more she tries to find the truth and clear Joe's name, the more confusing things become. Is the murder connected to the developers circling the waterfront home Joe inherited from his parents? Or to the true crime podcast he has been making about the death of his ex-girlfriend, seven years previously? And what was the information the murdered woman had been trying to horse-trade with police?
As her off-the-books investigation continues, Barb discovers that drowsy Bullford Point is actually a town full of secrets - and that even though she's known everyone in the close-knit community for years ... everybody lies.
PRAISE FOR LIARS:
'I loved it. Intriguing, genuinely mysterious and authentic. Such a well-told story, so surprising and rewarding. I honestly couldn't put it down. If you only read one book this year, make it this.' WIL ANDERSON
447 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 30, 2024
35 people are currently reading
233 people want to read
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July 22, 2024
With his second crime novel, Liars, James O’Loghlin has produced a deceptively complex murder mystery. With elements that can only be described as a whodunnit that combines a classic cozy mystery with the structure of a police procedural, this is a small town crime novel that is filled with intrigue.
In the small NSW Central Coast town of Bullford Point, life seems pretty quiet with the usual small town issues marking as exciting as things get. There’s a certain bucolic quaintness about the beachside town, but that feeling is rudely shattered when Karen Kemp’s body is found in the nearby bushland.
And then recently rehabbed drug addict Joe Griffiths is discovered in his bed, dead from an overdose. The fact that Joe, who was secretly meeting with Karen behind her boyfriend’s back, was the prime suspect for Karen’s murder is a notable feature in what appears to be a remorse filled suicide.
The local police constable, Seb Baxter, is a little overwhelmed by the scope of the crimes that have been committed on his patch. The homicide detectives from Sydney quickly take over the scenes, draw their conclusions and head home again. Seb was once good friends with Joe, while saddened and disappointed with what’s happened, is prepared to accept his colleague’s findings.
It’s not until Barb Young, a middle-aged local woman who had employed Joe in her handyman business, takes it on herself to investigate the deaths. The classic “things just don’t add up” sets her on her path and she teams up with Seb to get to the bottom of the mysteries. She turns out to be the scene stealing star of the piece, kind of reminiscent of The Thursday Murder Club’s Joyce (if you’ve read the books) with her penchant for baking and pressing her delicious cakes on otherwise hard nosed criminals.
Now, Seb and Joe went to school together, along with Sal, Viv, Gary, Leanne and Dev. Together they formed a band, led by Sal, and ended up heading to Sydney during their university days with the hope that they might be able to make it big. Just before their big break, Sal disappeared without explanation and moved to the Blue Mountains and was then strangled to death in her home. The death had been counted as the work of a local serial killer, the third in the string of murders at the time.
This little bit of background serves to essentially give us a group of five potential suspects to sift through as we try to work out who the killer is.
A good portion of the story early on is told via emails, letters, text transcripts and podcast transcripts between members of the Bullford Point and surrounding area community. This carried on for an overly long portion of the book, at least the first 12% and was, quite frankly, an onerous read.
This is a double murder mystery solved by a combination of an amateur sleuth and a junior small town police constable. Events that took place more than seven years ago are crucial to solving the case and we’re given a healthy list of potential suspects
Once past the “correspondence” section of the book, things flow far more quickly and in a linear fashion with a solid mystery slowly unfolding to tantalize. The events from the past are cleverly brought to light in a believable way and while there are a few conveniently accurate conclusions drawn based on even more conveniently provided pieces of evidence, things move to quite a thrilling ending.
I found Liars to be an entertaining small town murder mystery that did a good job of balancing the lighter, more cozy moments with the darker, far more dangerous criminal elements.
My thanks to Echo Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with a digital ARC to read, enjoy and review this book.
In the small NSW Central Coast town of Bullford Point, life seems pretty quiet with the usual small town issues marking as exciting as things get. There’s a certain bucolic quaintness about the beachside town, but that feeling is rudely shattered when Karen Kemp’s body is found in the nearby bushland.
And then recently rehabbed drug addict Joe Griffiths is discovered in his bed, dead from an overdose. The fact that Joe, who was secretly meeting with Karen behind her boyfriend’s back, was the prime suspect for Karen’s murder is a notable feature in what appears to be a remorse filled suicide.
The local police constable, Seb Baxter, is a little overwhelmed by the scope of the crimes that have been committed on his patch. The homicide detectives from Sydney quickly take over the scenes, draw their conclusions and head home again. Seb was once good friends with Joe, while saddened and disappointed with what’s happened, is prepared to accept his colleague’s findings.
It’s not until Barb Young, a middle-aged local woman who had employed Joe in her handyman business, takes it on herself to investigate the deaths. The classic “things just don’t add up” sets her on her path and she teams up with Seb to get to the bottom of the mysteries. She turns out to be the scene stealing star of the piece, kind of reminiscent of The Thursday Murder Club’s Joyce (if you’ve read the books) with her penchant for baking and pressing her delicious cakes on otherwise hard nosed criminals.
Now, Seb and Joe went to school together, along with Sal, Viv, Gary, Leanne and Dev. Together they formed a band, led by Sal, and ended up heading to Sydney during their university days with the hope that they might be able to make it big. Just before their big break, Sal disappeared without explanation and moved to the Blue Mountains and was then strangled to death in her home. The death had been counted as the work of a local serial killer, the third in the string of murders at the time.
This little bit of background serves to essentially give us a group of five potential suspects to sift through as we try to work out who the killer is.
A good portion of the story early on is told via emails, letters, text transcripts and podcast transcripts between members of the Bullford Point and surrounding area community. This carried on for an overly long portion of the book, at least the first 12% and was, quite frankly, an onerous read.
This is a double murder mystery solved by a combination of an amateur sleuth and a junior small town police constable. Events that took place more than seven years ago are crucial to solving the case and we’re given a healthy list of potential suspects
Once past the “correspondence” section of the book, things flow far more quickly and in a linear fashion with a solid mystery slowly unfolding to tantalize. The events from the past are cleverly brought to light in a believable way and while there are a few conveniently accurate conclusions drawn based on even more conveniently provided pieces of evidence, things move to quite a thrilling ending.
I found Liars to be an entertaining small town murder mystery that did a good job of balancing the lighter, more cozy moments with the darker, far more dangerous criminal elements.
My thanks to Echo Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with a digital ARC to read, enjoy and review this book.
August 26, 2024
4.5 Stars
The story starts with a unique style of narration with texts, emails, a letter and report notices. This was an interesting way to get to know some of the characters and their background.
The plot centres around a group of friends all having grown up in Bullford Point and have since returned there as adults. One of the group was murdered seven years ago. The case was never solved. Joe decides to start a true crime podcast, his first one focusing on Sal's murder.
Liars is a highly engaging police procedural with a twist; this is an off- the-books investigation. I loved the way Barb sifted through information finding little anomalies and dug deeper doing her own research and questioning people. I was totally invested in this story. O'Loghlin's characterisation is superb, everyone had something to hide and as the story progressed the mystery mounted which kept me guessing until the very end.
Liars is a cleverly plotted murder mystery and I enjoyed O'Loghlin's use of a lay person as the investigator (a modern day Miss Marple). I would love to see more of the Barb and Seb duo.
The story starts with a unique style of narration with texts, emails, a letter and report notices. This was an interesting way to get to know some of the characters and their background.
The plot centres around a group of friends all having grown up in Bullford Point and have since returned there as adults. One of the group was murdered seven years ago. The case was never solved. Joe decides to start a true crime podcast, his first one focusing on Sal's murder.
Liars is a highly engaging police procedural with a twist; this is an off- the-books investigation. I loved the way Barb sifted through information finding little anomalies and dug deeper doing her own research and questioning people. I was totally invested in this story. O'Loghlin's characterisation is superb, everyone had something to hide and as the story progressed the mystery mounted which kept me guessing until the very end.
Liars is a cleverly plotted murder mystery and I enjoyed O'Loghlin's use of a lay person as the investigator (a modern day Miss Marple). I would love to see more of the Barb and Seb duo.
January 12, 2025
I loved James’ last book and was excited to read this. I think I’m just not a crime fiction gal - the last 100 pages were meh and I kind of didn’t care whodunnit. I also felt like the characters were rather flimsy and 2D and not particularly interesting. I eyerolled hard at some of the discoveries the two main crime fighters made too.
3 stars.
3 stars.
September 18, 2024
Wonderful book to read. It grabs you and you want to know more and more of the mysteries on who actually did what and who was the main responsible.
Written in an amazing way by referring to certain places like beaches or bays or things/objects really letting it play as a film in your head. Especially the book’s setting be in Australia a little bit up north from Sydney and it’s beautiful nature just does it for me.
Definitely recommend and thanks to the writer for this great book
Written in an amazing way by referring to certain places like beaches or bays or things/objects really letting it play as a film in your head. Especially the book’s setting be in Australia a little bit up north from Sydney and it’s beautiful nature just does it for me.
Definitely recommend and thanks to the writer for this great book
December 15, 2024
This is a similar genre to “Criminals” which I really enjoyed. I found this book not as instantly engaging but once I found its rhythm I couldn’t put it down. It has interesting characters and a suitably complex plot which progresses at a cracking pace.
May 31, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley, author James O’Loghlin and Echo publishing for the ARC and opportunity to review this book.
The first 12% was incredibly difficult to get through. So many emails and texts and conversations that it was difficult to follow who was who or even why they were emailing. I feel these emails could have been more strategically placed through the book instead of all lumped in the beginning. I was at the point of deciding to DNF this book but thankfully the next page I turned to was actual plot.
On my kindle the fonts were different colours and the light one was hard to read. There was no spacing between paragraphs or even in the dialogue which also made it difficult to follow. Hopefully just an ebook issue that will be rectified when the book is published.
There seems to be missing parts/sections, again could just be a kindle problem but frustrating nonetheless.
Having said that once I got past the endless text dialogue the book took a much better turn. It became a page turner that kept me in so much suspense. There were twists I didn’t see coming and I was totally wrong on who the killer was.
There were quite a few storylines going on in this book but it all tied up nicely. It was gripping in some places and became a page turner right to the end.
The one character involved in the ‘investigating’ was a little too far fetched for me. I would have liked it better if it had been another police detective and not just a random woman who knew the victim. I understand why the author chose her but for me that part was a miss.
This was my first book by this author and I’d like to read more as he absolutely can be a 5 star author!
Overall 3.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
The first 12% was incredibly difficult to get through. So many emails and texts and conversations that it was difficult to follow who was who or even why they were emailing. I feel these emails could have been more strategically placed through the book instead of all lumped in the beginning. I was at the point of deciding to DNF this book but thankfully the next page I turned to was actual plot.
On my kindle the fonts were different colours and the light one was hard to read. There was no spacing between paragraphs or even in the dialogue which also made it difficult to follow. Hopefully just an ebook issue that will be rectified when the book is published.
There seems to be missing parts/sections, again could just be a kindle problem but frustrating nonetheless.
Having said that once I got past the endless text dialogue the book took a much better turn. It became a page turner that kept me in so much suspense. There were twists I didn’t see coming and I was totally wrong on who the killer was.
There were quite a few storylines going on in this book but it all tied up nicely. It was gripping in some places and became a page turner right to the end.
The one character involved in the ‘investigating’ was a little too far fetched for me. I would have liked it better if it had been another police detective and not just a random woman who knew the victim. I understand why the author chose her but for me that part was a miss.
This was my first book by this author and I’d like to read more as he absolutely can be a 5 star author!
Overall 3.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 8, 2024
Thank you to Echo Publishing for sending me a copy of Liars to read and review.
James O'Loghlin has crafted an excellent complex murder mystery for us to ponder over here. A close-knit group of seven friends grow up in the sleepy Central Coast town of Bullford Point and eventually start a band. The years pass. They all go their separate ways, unfortunately, with one becoming a victim of murder. As a consequence, another goes of the rails, turning dependent on drugs.
Now, six years down the track, Joe Griffith has turned his life around, completing rehab and returning to his hometown. Not many people trust Joe after what he did. Thankfully, handywoman Barb sees potential and offers Joe a gig. With a new positive outlook, Joe decides to try his hand at amateur sleuthing, hoping that his podcast will finally solve his close friend Sal's murder.
Shortly after, Joe is discovered dead in his bed, seemingly with a self-inflicted overdose. To the police, it's an open and shut case. In the lead up to his demise, Joe had been seeing a newcomer to the area, one that coincidentally was also murdered. It's quite clear- Joe killed Karen Kemp and committed suicide over his guilt.
There's no way that Barb believes these claims. She's certain that there's much more to the story. So, our modern-day Miss Marple decides to do a bit of sleuthing herself. Trouble is - those she encounters along the way aren't exactly telling the truth either. Even her police contact buddy, Seb - who grew up with Joe and also wants to clear his name - is hiding something so terrible that he just can't admit to.
So, what exactly transpired in the lead up to these three (five when you factor in the Blue Mountains Strangler's two other victims) murders? It's one heck of an exhilarating trek to figure out the answers, and let me tell you that you'll be SHOOK.
I'm totally looking forward to reading The Writer's Room where our modern-day Miss Marple returns! Ideally, I'd love another Seb focused read - he's absolutely proven himself to be a top- notch cop!
4.75 🌟
James O'Loghlin has crafted an excellent complex murder mystery for us to ponder over here. A close-knit group of seven friends grow up in the sleepy Central Coast town of Bullford Point and eventually start a band. The years pass. They all go their separate ways, unfortunately, with one becoming a victim of murder. As a consequence, another goes of the rails, turning dependent on drugs.
Now, six years down the track, Joe Griffith has turned his life around, completing rehab and returning to his hometown. Not many people trust Joe after what he did. Thankfully, handywoman Barb sees potential and offers Joe a gig. With a new positive outlook, Joe decides to try his hand at amateur sleuthing, hoping that his podcast will finally solve his close friend Sal's murder.
Shortly after, Joe is discovered dead in his bed, seemingly with a self-inflicted overdose. To the police, it's an open and shut case. In the lead up to his demise, Joe had been seeing a newcomer to the area, one that coincidentally was also murdered. It's quite clear- Joe killed Karen Kemp and committed suicide over his guilt.
There's no way that Barb believes these claims. She's certain that there's much more to the story. So, our modern-day Miss Marple decides to do a bit of sleuthing herself. Trouble is - those she encounters along the way aren't exactly telling the truth either. Even her police contact buddy, Seb - who grew up with Joe and also wants to clear his name - is hiding something so terrible that he just can't admit to.
So, what exactly transpired in the lead up to these three (five when you factor in the Blue Mountains Strangler's two other victims) murders? It's one heck of an exhilarating trek to figure out the answers, and let me tell you that you'll be SHOOK.
I'm totally looking forward to reading The Writer's Room where our modern-day Miss Marple returns! Ideally, I'd love another Seb focused read - he's absolutely proven himself to be a top- notch cop!
4.75 🌟
August 4, 2024
Thank you Netgalley, Echo Publishing and James O'Loghlin for giving me early access to this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Ok I need to apologise, this has nothing to do with the book, but it's important, vital information!!
Like many other readers, I found myself with an extensive number of books on my physical TBR, suddenly everything was too much and it took me ages to pick up this book. Then I saw it was 400+ pages long and I thought "ok, I'm not gonna manage to read this on time" . Excuse me, what 400 pages? This book flew by. I didn't even feel the first 100 pages! (So it's technically 300 pages)
I loved this! James O'Loghlin did such an incredible job at keeping the story entertaining! He gave us texts, email exchanges, letters, police reports... everything I could wish for. I love (love love) reading exchanges like this.
My only regret is not having picked up this book sooner, go read it!
Ok I need to apologise, this has nothing to do with the book, but it's important, vital information!!
Like many other readers, I found myself with an extensive number of books on my physical TBR, suddenly everything was too much and it took me ages to pick up this book. Then I saw it was 400+ pages long and I thought "ok, I'm not gonna manage to read this on time" . Excuse me, what 400 pages? This book flew by. I didn't even feel the first 100 pages! (So it's technically 300 pages)
I loved this! James O'Loghlin did such an incredible job at keeping the story entertaining! He gave us texts, email exchanges, letters, police reports... everything I could wish for. I love (love love) reading exchanges like this.
My only regret is not having picked up this book sooner, go read it!
September 14, 2024
Interesting plot and good character development. This is a story set in Australia and involves a group o friends whose relationships become more complicated as time goes on. A series of murders that affect members of the group cause them to question what they know about the others and suspicion spoils the friendships.
September 26, 2024
Liars by Australian author James O’Loughlin is a work of fiction in the murder mystery suspense, and interpersonal drama genres.
Set in the atmospherically coastal town of Bullford Point in New South Wales, fifty-eight-year-old Barbara Young has lived in the very small rural community for most of her life. Working as the community’s handywoman she has seen many changes within the township but for most not much happens.
Joe Griffiths has not lived in Bullford for six years. He left after band member Sally McIndoe disappeared, and he became a suspect. Months later her body was found by police, determining that she had been the third victim of the so-called Blue Mountains Strangler. For Joe the damage was already done being doubted by so many people, he went down a path of self-destruction and turned to drugs and crime which led to jail time.
Clean from rehab Barb offers Joe a job upon his return home hoping to help him with a new beginning, but when Karen Kemp’s body is found in nearby bushland, police are quick to suspect the man with a record. When Joe is found dead of an overdose, homicide detectives from Sydney take over the case and declare it a suicide because he was guilty of murder.
Barb is not convinced that her friend is guilty, there are so many things that don’t add up in both cases, she teams up with local police constable, Seb Baxter to uncover the truth. She stops at nothing to clear Joe’s name and find out who the real murderer is.
The beginning of the book begins with many emails, transcripts and text messages from between residents of the Bullford Point and surrounding area, which at times I found were difficult to follow. I wish they were dispersed throughout the book as I started to lose interest but once I got through them, I was firmly involved in the storyline.
The author uses a large and diverse compelling cast of characters, coming from very different backgrounds. They are richly developed, each harbouring secrets and vulnerabilities that add depth to the narrative.
Barbara Young is a captivating protagonist; smart, gutsy, and relentless in her pursuit of justice and determined to uncover the truth. There’s a nice touch of humanity to her not only because she knew the victim, but she also believed in Joe when no one else did. As an amateur sleuth
you cannot help but root for her and see her grow from the challenges she faces.
Joe Griffiths is an exceptional character, and my heart went out to him. With a life of struggle and inner demons to overcome his heart was in the right place to return to Bullford but it wasn’t meant to be, which quite upset me as I love to see people make a comeback from hardship.
James O’Loughlin crafts a thrilling and engrossing mystery that masterfully weaves together suspense and intrigue, skilfully layering twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the final pages.
You can almost picture yourself in the cover, it Immediately draws you in with its beautiful arrangement of type and imagery. The design has peaceful feel to it, but the birds make it haunting and unexpected. It is brilliantly executed and a book I would pick up from a shelf.
Liars is a riveting mystery that will suit fans of detailed, suspenseful crime writing. I highly recommend it.
Thank you, Beauty & Lace and Echo Publishing, for the opportunity to read and review.
Set in the atmospherically coastal town of Bullford Point in New South Wales, fifty-eight-year-old Barbara Young has lived in the very small rural community for most of her life. Working as the community’s handywoman she has seen many changes within the township but for most not much happens.
Joe Griffiths has not lived in Bullford for six years. He left after band member Sally McIndoe disappeared, and he became a suspect. Months later her body was found by police, determining that she had been the third victim of the so-called Blue Mountains Strangler. For Joe the damage was already done being doubted by so many people, he went down a path of self-destruction and turned to drugs and crime which led to jail time.
Clean from rehab Barb offers Joe a job upon his return home hoping to help him with a new beginning, but when Karen Kemp’s body is found in nearby bushland, police are quick to suspect the man with a record. When Joe is found dead of an overdose, homicide detectives from Sydney take over the case and declare it a suicide because he was guilty of murder.
Barb is not convinced that her friend is guilty, there are so many things that don’t add up in both cases, she teams up with local police constable, Seb Baxter to uncover the truth. She stops at nothing to clear Joe’s name and find out who the real murderer is.
The beginning of the book begins with many emails, transcripts and text messages from between residents of the Bullford Point and surrounding area, which at times I found were difficult to follow. I wish they were dispersed throughout the book as I started to lose interest but once I got through them, I was firmly involved in the storyline.
The author uses a large and diverse compelling cast of characters, coming from very different backgrounds. They are richly developed, each harbouring secrets and vulnerabilities that add depth to the narrative.
Barbara Young is a captivating protagonist; smart, gutsy, and relentless in her pursuit of justice and determined to uncover the truth. There’s a nice touch of humanity to her not only because she knew the victim, but she also believed in Joe when no one else did. As an amateur sleuth
you cannot help but root for her and see her grow from the challenges she faces.
Joe Griffiths is an exceptional character, and my heart went out to him. With a life of struggle and inner demons to overcome his heart was in the right place to return to Bullford but it wasn’t meant to be, which quite upset me as I love to see people make a comeback from hardship.
James O’Loughlin crafts a thrilling and engrossing mystery that masterfully weaves together suspense and intrigue, skilfully layering twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the final pages.
You can almost picture yourself in the cover, it Immediately draws you in with its beautiful arrangement of type and imagery. The design has peaceful feel to it, but the birds make it haunting and unexpected. It is brilliantly executed and a book I would pick up from a shelf.
Liars is a riveting mystery that will suit fans of detailed, suspenseful crime writing. I highly recommend it.
Thank you, Beauty & Lace and Echo Publishing, for the opportunity to read and review.
June 14, 2024
A mystery set in Australia involving not one but at least 5 murders!
As the author focused on each of the characters in this thriller - most of whom belonged to a flash-in- the-pan/ semi-famous rock band during the gang's university days - you start to scratch your head and wonder: each and every one of these people make very likely suspects, but Who really Dunnit?!!!
James O'Loghlin's sense of humour, coastal setting and colourful characters keep the reader's interest engaged, despite several repetitious patches here and there: Joe's podcast more or less rehashed the same events over and OVER during each interview, and this got fairly tedious after a while.
Fortunately, that action packed ending made up for those few less exciting passages.
Overall I would rate this thriller a 3.5 out of 5. I rounded down to a three because the female lead, Barb Young, did all of the work to keep the investigation open (no spoilers here!) and just about solved the entire mystery, but SEB, who had his own skeletons to hide, got the glory and the promotion! WHAAAAAT?!!
My thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Note: Most of the female characters in this novel get murdered, or are hooked on drugs, are schemers or manipulators like Dev and Karen, are musically talented but naive and therefore get themselves immediately murdered, etc. Joe was the only male victim come to think of it. Female characters did not come off well in this story. That is why I deducted half a point. Now, I'm tempted to go back and deduct another half point!!!
September 11, 2024
I have not read anything by this author previously, but will definately look out for more by him. Set in Australia, this book follows a group of friends and acquaintances in a small coastal place in Queensland. One of the girls was killed by the Blue Mountain strangler and others in the group have drug addiction problems. As the book starts, Joe returns to the house where he grew up after the death of his mother. She bequeathed 2/3s to him and a 1/3 to his lawyer older brother. Joe has just completed a drug rehabilitation programme to get out of a prison sentence and has been working with a local handywoman, Barb.
The first few chapters were quite confusing, mostly because the timeperiod was alternating between now and the present time and because the book was told from different points of view. However as the book progressed and I had sorted out who everyone was, the narrative started to make more sense and the different forms of communication did add to the plot. As we get into the book, there are more deaths and Barb, together with Seb (local police and bass player from the group) start to look into the recent events as well as the subject of Joe's podcast, the death of Sal years ago. The book is long, but tells an intricate story of relationships between the townspeople, those in the group of friends and those around them. Barb is a great character who asks questions that others would not dare. Seb is perhaps a little weak at first, but he does come into his own. The book gradually builds up the story and the suspense with a couple of twists in the plot and doesn't feel too long. I have given 4 stars because of the confusion I had at the start of the book, was I going to carry on with it? I`m so glad I did.
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
The first few chapters were quite confusing, mostly because the timeperiod was alternating between now and the present time and because the book was told from different points of view. However as the book progressed and I had sorted out who everyone was, the narrative started to make more sense and the different forms of communication did add to the plot. As we get into the book, there are more deaths and Barb, together with Seb (local police and bass player from the group) start to look into the recent events as well as the subject of Joe's podcast, the death of Sal years ago. The book is long, but tells an intricate story of relationships between the townspeople, those in the group of friends and those around them. Barb is a great character who asks questions that others would not dare. Seb is perhaps a little weak at first, but he does come into his own. The book gradually builds up the story and the suspense with a couple of twists in the plot and doesn't feel too long. I have given 4 stars because of the confusion I had at the start of the book, was I going to carry on with it? I`m so glad I did.
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
September 9, 2024
Joe has a chance at a new start and better life. After going to jail for drugs and crime, he successfully completes a hail mary at rehab and is ready for this new life. His mum having passed while he was inside, having 2/3s share of her house in his quiet home town, shared with his brother, he has the chance to stay clear of Sydney and his troubled times.
Barbara has found herself unexpectedly alone when her husband leaves for the woman he was having an affair with. How did she not notice? A question she asks herself. A believer of 2nd chances and in need of help in her handy-person work, Barb gives Joe some work.
Seb, the local policeman, has a quiet town to police, mainly speeding tickets and the occasional lost cat. Something not too hard on his own. At least until 2 deaths occur just days apart. Homicide detectives close the cases quickly, the first Karen's death murder by Joe and his death an overdose showing guilt. But something isn't quite right.
Barb just cannot believe it, he was doing so well, why would he start taking again. Plus his "teeth" were not in the right place...
The history of the characters, whose lives spread in different directions back in their youth, is all coming out now. Did one of them do it, kill Joe or Karen, and the historic death of a friend years gone by, how does that fit.
Intrigue, a little confusion and a well structured path to answers, I thoroughly enjoyed this read and will look out for others like it. Thanks Beauty & Lace and author James O'Loghlin for the read.
Barbara has found herself unexpectedly alone when her husband leaves for the woman he was having an affair with. How did she not notice? A question she asks herself. A believer of 2nd chances and in need of help in her handy-person work, Barb gives Joe some work.
Seb, the local policeman, has a quiet town to police, mainly speeding tickets and the occasional lost cat. Something not too hard on his own. At least until 2 deaths occur just days apart. Homicide detectives close the cases quickly, the first Karen's death murder by Joe and his death an overdose showing guilt. But something isn't quite right.
Barb just cannot believe it, he was doing so well, why would he start taking again. Plus his "teeth" were not in the right place...
The history of the characters, whose lives spread in different directions back in their youth, is all coming out now. Did one of them do it, kill Joe or Karen, and the historic death of a friend years gone by, how does that fit.
Intrigue, a little confusion and a well structured path to answers, I thoroughly enjoyed this read and will look out for others like it. Thanks Beauty & Lace and author James O'Loghlin for the read.
August 28, 2024
In this sleepy coastal town of Bullford Point, Barb Young, a handywoman, has lived a pretty quiet life. Minus the one time a brush turkey tried to get onto the ferry a few years ago.
When Joe Griffiths returns from Sydney after six years of drug addiction, jail and, eventually, rehab, Barb offers him a job, hoping to help him turn his life around for good. However, whenever Karen Kemp’s body is found in the nearby bushland, who becomes the number one suspect? Yep, Joe Griffiths does. The local police constable, Seb Baxter, is definitely overwhelmed by the scope of the crimes that have been committed on his patch. The homicide detectives from Sydney quickly take over the scenes draw their own conclusions & head for home again.
Barb takes it upon herself to do her own investigating, making her realizing that things really and truly just aren't adding up. She teams up with Seb to get to the bottom of things...
I enjoyed how most of the story is told via emails, letters, text messages, and also podcast transcriptions as well. As the story goes on, we see how things from the past come to light and how that leads the ending to be absolutely thrilling, IMO anyway.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my honest review.
When Joe Griffiths returns from Sydney after six years of drug addiction, jail and, eventually, rehab, Barb offers him a job, hoping to help him turn his life around for good. However, whenever Karen Kemp’s body is found in the nearby bushland, who becomes the number one suspect? Yep, Joe Griffiths does. The local police constable, Seb Baxter, is definitely overwhelmed by the scope of the crimes that have been committed on his patch. The homicide detectives from Sydney quickly take over the scenes draw their own conclusions & head for home again.
Barb takes it upon herself to do her own investigating, making her realizing that things really and truly just aren't adding up. She teams up with Seb to get to the bottom of things...
I enjoyed how most of the story is told via emails, letters, text messages, and also podcast transcriptions as well. As the story goes on, we see how things from the past come to light and how that leads the ending to be absolutely thrilling, IMO anyway.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my honest review.
July 11, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley, the Publisher and the Author for the ARC.
The e-book I received had formatting issues. The chapter headers were missing, in some places, there were no page break or paragraph break for chapter changes. The text was also mixed up. I hope these will be fixed before the final publication and my rating is not based on the book formatting.
The first 20% of the book is full of text messages, emails. Thankfully it ended soon and the story progressed, unlike Janice Hallett's Appeal (which got 1 * rating from me). I didn't realize it was a cozy mystery, until a middle aged lady started using her delicious cakes to lure hardened drug dealers to open up all their secrets.
This was a fairly interesting detective novel. But it failed to hold my attention. I had problem with the shoddy work by the homicide detectives in the book. There is an apparent suicide, but they dont search the house of the victim, they dont find his phone and do a basic check. All this was conveniently left to Barb to find. I am not a fan of the narration style too. I dont think I will be reading any more books by this author.
The e-book I received had formatting issues. The chapter headers were missing, in some places, there were no page break or paragraph break for chapter changes. The text was also mixed up. I hope these will be fixed before the final publication and my rating is not based on the book formatting.
The first 20% of the book is full of text messages, emails. Thankfully it ended soon and the story progressed, unlike Janice Hallett's Appeal (which got 1 * rating from me). I didn't realize it was a cozy mystery, until a middle aged lady started using her delicious cakes to lure hardened drug dealers to open up all their secrets.
This was a fairly interesting detective novel. But it failed to hold my attention. I had problem with the shoddy work by the homicide detectives in the book. There is an apparent suicide, but they dont search the house of the victim, they dont find his phone and do a basic check. All this was conveniently left to Barb to find. I am not a fan of the narration style too. I dont think I will be reading any more books by this author.
June 19, 2025
Really quite excellent once the story got going. And I’d definitely recommend the audiobook version.
The introductory bit - epistolary in style, but the modern version of texts, emails, calls, notes and indeed at least one letter - was an unfortunate drag to read, I hate to admit, because as a vehicle for the setup of character relationships it actually did an alright job. To be honest, it read a lot like a writer’s exercise to get into the characters‘ mindsets and develop a feel for the story. I would have liked it to be better integrated into the plot proper, but overall I am glad I didn‘t give up on the book (was tempted however, and also rushed it a bit with the listening speed for that). What really saved it for me were the different narrators of the audiobook, helping ever so much to keep narrative voices distinct.
After that, it gradually became everything I had hoped for. The story was engaging, the various viewpoint characters read well, the writing was funny, the plot had structure and layers, and the resolution hit exactly the right spot of excitement, closure, insight and outlooks. Had a great time reading it.
The introductory bit - epistolary in style, but the modern version of texts, emails, calls, notes and indeed at least one letter - was an unfortunate drag to read, I hate to admit, because as a vehicle for the setup of character relationships it actually did an alright job. To be honest, it read a lot like a writer’s exercise to get into the characters‘ mindsets and develop a feel for the story. I would have liked it to be better integrated into the plot proper, but overall I am glad I didn‘t give up on the book (was tempted however, and also rushed it a bit with the listening speed for that). What really saved it for me were the different narrators of the audiobook, helping ever so much to keep narrative voices distinct.
After that, it gradually became everything I had hoped for. The story was engaging, the various viewpoint characters read well, the writing was funny, the plot had structure and layers, and the resolution hit exactly the right spot of excitement, closure, insight and outlooks. Had a great time reading it.
October 12, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed James O'Loghlin's Liars, an enthralling and also charming mystery exploring themes of truth, lies, honesty and deception. Multiple seemingly unconnected events eventually unravel secrets of the past, all uncovered by Barb, a local handywoman with a heart of gold who is still adjusting to her husband's desertion. The characters are well drawn and relatable, or at least recognisable, the different geographical settings each lending a different feel to respective events. The writing deftly captures the complexities of human interactions. There are twists and turns aplenty, and oodles of suspense, along with poignant observations and moments of enlightenment.
James O'Loghlin's Liars is a great read for fans of crime writing and Australian contemporary fiction. Highly recommended and can't wait for more like this from the author. Many thanks to Beauty and Lace and Echo publishing for the opportunity to read and review.
James O'Loghlin's Liars is a great read for fans of crime writing and Australian contemporary fiction. Highly recommended and can't wait for more like this from the author. Many thanks to Beauty and Lace and Echo publishing for the opportunity to read and review.
February 5, 2025
Finished: Liars by James O’Loghlin
This is a fiction mystery novel. Published September 2024. I completed this in Audiobook format.
This was an OK book. As for a gripping, engaging edge of sit mystery, not so much. The beginning of the plot is very slow and does pick up not much. The ending well…uhm. Some of the characters are not developed enough to be part of the main plot.
Summary from publisher:
Everyone is guilty of something. Handy woman Barb Young has lived in the sleepy coastal town of Bullford point for over 50 years-and in that time, not much has happened, unless you count that business where a bush turkey managed to board a ferry couple years ago.
When Joe Griffiths returns from Sydney after six years of drug addiction, jail and, eventually rehab, Barb offers him a job, hoping to help him turn his life around. However, when another new resident of Bullford point is murdered., Joe becomes the prime suspect……..
This is a fiction mystery novel. Published September 2024. I completed this in Audiobook format.
This was an OK book. As for a gripping, engaging edge of sit mystery, not so much. The beginning of the plot is very slow and does pick up not much. The ending well…uhm. Some of the characters are not developed enough to be part of the main plot.
Summary from publisher:
Everyone is guilty of something. Handy woman Barb Young has lived in the sleepy coastal town of Bullford point for over 50 years-and in that time, not much has happened, unless you count that business where a bush turkey managed to board a ferry couple years ago.
When Joe Griffiths returns from Sydney after six years of drug addiction, jail and, eventually rehab, Barb offers him a job, hoping to help him turn his life around. However, when another new resident of Bullford point is murdered., Joe becomes the prime suspect……..
October 28, 2024
5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Summed Up: No Lies, This Book Is The Perfect Crime Drama!
- - -
Echo Publishing kindly sent me this intriguing covered book and I’m ashamed to say it sat in my TBR bedside table pile for a month while the library reservations took over.
I’m kicking myself for letting this gem sit but gosh it was worth the wait! From page one, Liars had me hooked. James O’Loghlin’s writing gave me serious Richard Osman meets Margaret Hickey vibes and that is the perfect combo to be associated with if you ask me.
The mixed media format (think podcasts, police reports, etc) was such a clever way to introduce the characters and once I quickly got into this style, I really enjoyed the ride.
This book is Aussie crime drama at its finest - smart plot, great characters, a wicked sense of humour and full of surprises. It kept my interest at every page turn with lots of little puzzles being solved in the background while the main mystery took place.
If you love a mystery that keeps you guessing, this one’s for you. And I’ll be first in line for James’ next book in 2025!
Summed Up: No Lies, This Book Is The Perfect Crime Drama!
- - -
Echo Publishing kindly sent me this intriguing covered book and I’m ashamed to say it sat in my TBR bedside table pile for a month while the library reservations took over.
I’m kicking myself for letting this gem sit but gosh it was worth the wait! From page one, Liars had me hooked. James O’Loghlin’s writing gave me serious Richard Osman meets Margaret Hickey vibes and that is the perfect combo to be associated with if you ask me.
The mixed media format (think podcasts, police reports, etc) was such a clever way to introduce the characters and once I quickly got into this style, I really enjoyed the ride.
This book is Aussie crime drama at its finest - smart plot, great characters, a wicked sense of humour and full of surprises. It kept my interest at every page turn with lots of little puzzles being solved in the background while the main mystery took place.
If you love a mystery that keeps you guessing, this one’s for you. And I’ll be first in line for James’ next book in 2025!
November 21, 2024
The second crime fiction tale, James O'Loghlin’s Liars (2024) is a standalone murder mystery. It's set in the quiet coastal town of Bullford Point, where nothing much happens. Local handywoman, Barb Young employs Joe Griffiths after his rehab stint and he is a reliable worker. Then a local woman's body is found murdered after leaving Joe’s house and not long after, Joe is also found dead. Barb isn’t satisfied with the police investigation and is determined to find the truth, joining forces with Seb, the local police constable. An intricate, engaging Aussie noir unfolds, with richly drawn and psychologically astute characters, making for a nuanced whodunnit. With its idyllic setting, slowly building tension and group of friends’ suspects, make for a four and a half stars must-read rating. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own, freely given and without any inducement.
December 20, 2024
If you enjoy an Australian crime story set in a small rural community, then this book might be for you. A young man, recently released from prison, returns to his hometown for a fresh start. A turn of events shortly after came as a bit of a surprise to me, and the story had many more of those to offer, including a rising body count that would certainly be noticed in a little country town. Seeing that the book lived up to its title, everyone had something to hide, making for some interesting developments along the way. Written with the type of tongue-in-cheek humour I love in Australian fiction, LIARS made for a great audiobook listen and kept me entertained from start to finish.
3.5 stars
3.5 stars
January 3, 2025
Joe returns to small town Bullford Point from Sydney after years of heroin addiction and jail. He gets a job with handywoman Barb, hooks up with his old circle of friends and starts making a podcast about the disappearance and subsequent unsolved murder of his old friend Sal. When a new murder occurs in the town, all fingers point to Joe, but it is more complicated than that and so it turns to Barb and Joe's schoolfriend and cop Seb to delve into what happened. It seems though that everyone in the sleepy town is harboring secrets.
This is a bit of a classic old fashioned whodunnit in a modern setting. Great characters, spots of humour and good storytelling. Hand on heart i loved James O'Loghlin's novel Criminals more, but this is still a good fun holiday read.
This is a bit of a classic old fashioned whodunnit in a modern setting. Great characters, spots of humour and good storytelling. Hand on heart i loved James O'Loghlin's novel Criminals more, but this is still a good fun holiday read.
July 6, 2024
LIARS - First, the formatting made this book a difficult read. I did like the way the story began with texts, etc. Kept the wordiness down since the rest of the book is extremely wordy. Interesting story lines and good characters did make for a good read but this isn't a book that can be quickly read. Hopefully, the formatting will be corrected when published. I am interested in reading more by Mr. O'Loghlin. Three star rating is not a bad but an average rating. The formatting and wordiness dropped the rating one star. Source: Netgalley. 3*
August 6, 2024
I struggled with this book, mainly because of the formatting in the ARC I read. It wound up being a skim read for me because I found it difficult to really get into the book. The emails/texts in the beginning were a bit much which made it even harder for me to feel connected to the story.
I feel like there was a lot of promise here though. The characters and plot were interesting. I think I would have liked it better if it had been shorter with better formatting. That said, it was a clever, atmospheric mystery.
I read an ARC of this book from NetGalley. All comments are my own.
I feel like there was a lot of promise here though. The characters and plot were interesting. I think I would have liked it better if it had been shorter with better formatting. That said, it was a clever, atmospheric mystery.
I read an ARC of this book from NetGalley. All comments are my own.
December 7, 2024
I did a lot of skimming. The basic propositions are sound, and convincingly linked, resulting in rather a lot of links. I am not fond of pages of email or text communications and I prefer more straightforward narrative and less descriptive prose. The main characters were convincing and engaging. I’d have liked writing that drew me to investing more in identifying with them. There is potential and a strong empathy with the human condition. About 3.6 stars for me.
December 10, 2024
Can you tell when someone’s lying? How many dead bodies can one author put into a novel? While reading James O’Loghlin’s new crime novel, Liars, there are moments when the reader may begin to wonder if any of the characters will make it to the last page alive!...(to keep reading this review go to https://www.otherterrainjournal.com.a...).
Thank you to Echo Publishing for the early copy of this twisty mystery.
Thank you to Echo Publishing for the early copy of this twisty mystery.
January 2, 2025
Oh the lies we tell. The book is certainly well named, lies among friends, lies to authorities, lies to ourselves. This story really demonstrates the reality that no matter how well we think we know others or how long we have known them we still can only know what they choose to expose to public gaze
The best character has to be Barb, what a marvellous , down to earth, likeable, Miss Marple,type of character.
A good and interestingly complex murder mystery with a great Aussie flavour.
The best character has to be Barb, what a marvellous , down to earth, likeable, Miss Marple,type of character.
A good and interestingly complex murder mystery with a great Aussie flavour.
August 26, 2024
Just finished reading ‘Liars’ and I’m hooked! So many twists, turns and red herrings that kept me guessing until the end. The story is set in Australia and it was such a treat to recognise so many of the places mentioned. If you’re into mysteries that keep you on the edge of your seat, this one’s a must read!
Read
October 22, 2024Don't be put off by LIARS by James O'Loghlin. It's a biggish book at 464 pages, but it fills that size admirably. Engaging, addictive, and intriguing, it's small town setting is used to build a complex story, with personalities, connections, backgrounds and people that are anything but.
https://austcrimefiction.org/review/l...
https://austcrimefiction.org/review/l...
did-not-finish
April 23, 2025I found the swapping from one style of narrative - police report, email, chat-room excerpt, etc interspersed with fragments of story-telling too difficult to follow and quite unsettling to the flow of the story. Bailed out at about page 70 or so, when I flicked through to see if it was more of the same and when I saw it was, gave up.
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