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The Lies We Tell
In a world of lies, the truth is her deadliest weapon.
Sierra Coleman awakens from a horrific crash, her mind a blank slate. But as she claws her way back to reality, she discovers her amnesia is just the tip of a sinister iceberg. Every "truth" she uncovers is another lie, every ally a potential enemy.
With a daughter she can't remember and a life she doesn't recognize, Sierra is thrust into a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. As bodies pile up and shocking betrayals come to light, she realizes the key to her survival lies buried in her forgotten past.
Barker's razor-sharp prose slices through the pages, each revelation more stunning than the last. This relentless, twist-filled rollercoaster will have you questioning everything until its explosive finale.
Sierra Coleman awakens from a horrific crash, her mind a blank slate. But as she claws her way back to reality, she discovers her amnesia is just the tip of a sinister iceberg. Every "truth" she uncovers is another lie, every ally a potential enemy.
With a daughter she can't remember and a life she doesn't recognize, Sierra is thrust into a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. As bodies pile up and shocking betrayals come to light, she realizes the key to her survival lies buried in her forgotten past.
Barker's razor-sharp prose slices through the pages, each revelation more stunning than the last. This relentless, twist-filled rollercoaster will have you questioning everything until its explosive finale.
253 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 10, 2025
39 people are currently reading
4229 people want to read
About the author
J.D. Barker
54 books6,832 followersJ.D. Barker is the New York Times and international best-selling author of numerous novels, including DRACUL and the wildly popular 4MK series. He is currently collaborating with James Patterson. His books have been translated into two dozen languages, sold in more than 150 countries, and optioned for both film and television. Barker resides in coastal New Hampshire with his wife, Dayna, and their daughter, Ember.
A note from J.D.
As a child I was always told the dark could not hurt me, that the shadows creeping in the corners of my room were nothing more than just that, shadows. The sounds nothing more than the settling of our old home, creaking as it found comfort in the earth only to move again when it became restless, if ever so slightly. I would never sleep without closing the closet door, oh no; the door had to be shut tight. The darkness lurking inside needed to be held at bay, the whispers silenced. Rest would only come after I checked under the bed at least twice and quickly wrapped myself in the safety of the sheets (which no monster could penetrate), pulling them tight over my head.
I would never go down to the basement.
Never.
I had seen enough movies to know better, I had read enough stories to know what happens to little boys who wandered off into dark, dismal places alone. And there were stories, so many stories.
Reading was my sanctuary, a place where I could disappear for hours at a time, lost in the pages of a good book. It didn’t take long before I felt the urge to create my own.
I first began to write as a child, spinning tales of ghosts and gremlins, mystical places and people. For most of us, that’s where it begins—as children we have such wonderful imaginations, some of us have simply found it hard to grow up. I’ve spent countless hours trying to explain to friends and family why I enjoy it, why I would rather lock myself in a quiet little room and put pen to paper for hours at a time than throw around a baseball or simply watch television. Don’t get me wrong, sometimes I want to do just that, sometimes I wish for it, but even then the need to write is always there in the back of my mind, the characters are impatiently tapping their feet, waiting their turn, wanting to be heard. I wake in the middle of the night and reach for the pad beside my bed, sometimes scrawling page after page of their words, their lives. Then they’re quiet, if only for a little while. To stop would mean madness, or even worse—the calm, numbing sanity I see in others as they slip through the day without purpose. They don’t know what it’s like, they don’t understand. Something as simple as a pencil can open the door to a new world, can create life or experience death. Writing can take you to places you’ve never been, introduce you to people you’ve never met, take you back to when you first saw those shadows in your room, when you first heard the sounds mumbling ever so softly from your closet, and it can show you what uttered them. It can scare the hell out of you, and that’s when you know it’s good.
jd
A note from J.D.
As a child I was always told the dark could not hurt me, that the shadows creeping in the corners of my room were nothing more than just that, shadows. The sounds nothing more than the settling of our old home, creaking as it found comfort in the earth only to move again when it became restless, if ever so slightly. I would never sleep without closing the closet door, oh no; the door had to be shut tight. The darkness lurking inside needed to be held at bay, the whispers silenced. Rest would only come after I checked under the bed at least twice and quickly wrapped myself in the safety of the sheets (which no monster could penetrate), pulling them tight over my head.
I would never go down to the basement.
Never.
I had seen enough movies to know better, I had read enough stories to know what happens to little boys who wandered off into dark, dismal places alone. And there were stories, so many stories.
Reading was my sanctuary, a place where I could disappear for hours at a time, lost in the pages of a good book. It didn’t take long before I felt the urge to create my own.
I first began to write as a child, spinning tales of ghosts and gremlins, mystical places and people. For most of us, that’s where it begins—as children we have such wonderful imaginations, some of us have simply found it hard to grow up. I’ve spent countless hours trying to explain to friends and family why I enjoy it, why I would rather lock myself in a quiet little room and put pen to paper for hours at a time than throw around a baseball or simply watch television. Don’t get me wrong, sometimes I want to do just that, sometimes I wish for it, but even then the need to write is always there in the back of my mind, the characters are impatiently tapping their feet, waiting their turn, wanting to be heard. I wake in the middle of the night and reach for the pad beside my bed, sometimes scrawling page after page of their words, their lives. Then they’re quiet, if only for a little while. To stop would mean madness, or even worse—the calm, numbing sanity I see in others as they slip through the day without purpose. They don’t know what it’s like, they don’t understand. Something as simple as a pencil can open the door to a new world, can create life or experience death. Writing can take you to places you’ve never been, introduce you to people you’ve never met, take you back to when you first saw those shadows in your room, when you first heard the sounds mumbling ever so softly from your closet, and it can show you what uttered them. It can scare the hell out of you, and that’s when you know it’s good.
jd
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
September 1, 2025
Sentimientos encontrados. El autor me encanta pero el final me ha dejado un poco fria.
La protagonista despierta después de un accidente con amnesia. Duda de todo y de todos. Por medio de capítulos cortos va intentando recordar su pasado.
La historia engancha y quieres saber cual es si pasado ya que le estan pasando cosas extrañas.
El final, muy peliculero y que me ha dejado un poco fria.
La protagonista despierta después de un accidente con amnesia. Duda de todo y de todos. Por medio de capítulos cortos va intentando recordar su pasado.
La historia engancha y quieres saber cual es si pasado ya que le estan pasando cosas extrañas.
El final, muy peliculero y que me ha dejado un poco fria.
June 16, 2025
I won this via Goodreads and was super excited to get an early copy of J.D. Barker’s newest thriller! I absolutely loved his 4MK trilogy with 5 stars on each book. Sadly, this one just didn’t measure up. It was so different from his style that I originally fell in love with (that goes deep into a character with an interesting, twisty plot that I didn’t mind one bit that it took 3 books to tell!). This one, however, felt more YA to me with a very basic writing style. The characters were all unlikable IMO and the plot very Scooby Doo-ish.
So sorry for a negative review, J.D. Barker! Maybe it’s better to write solo again? You have an incredible mind and an amazing style all your own!
So sorry for a negative review, J.D. Barker! Maybe it’s better to write solo again? You have an incredible mind and an amazing style all your own!
May 23, 2025
I love J.D. Barker books and was excited when I received an ARC on Goodreads, but this one just doesn't compare to his others (imo).
The MC was all over the place, physically and mentally, with some of the story seeming a bit unbelievable.
Gave 3 stars, as the beginning was great and kept my attention.
The MC was all over the place, physically and mentally, with some of the story seeming a bit unbelievable.
Gave 3 stars, as the beginning was great and kept my attention.
December 7, 2025
Комбинацията между Джонатан Баркър и Ричард Бейли е изключително сполучлива. Двамата така успяват да запленят читателското внимание, че книгата просто няма оставяне!
Напрежението започва да расте още от първите страници, а към финала предположенията за развитието на сюжета са абсолютно безсмислени. Хареса ми образът на главната героиня, Сиера, която през цялото време беше мнителна и подозираше нещо нередно в подредената обстановка около себе си. Загубила своята памет след тежка катастрофа, тя не се доверява на никого! Недоверието й е това, което я води през редица перипетии и е движещата сила на сюжета като цяло. Финалът е момента, в който всичко се подрежда на местата си и оставя едно удовлетворение у читателя!
Напрежението започва да расте още от първите страници, а към финала предположенията за развитието на сюжета са абсолютно безсмислени. Хареса ми образът на главната героиня, Сиера, която през цялото време беше мнителна и подозираше нещо нередно в подредената обстановка около себе си. Загубила своята памет след тежка катастрофа, тя не се доверява на никого! Недоверието й е това, което я води през редица перипетии и е движещата сила на сюжета като цяло. Финалът е момента, в който всичко се подрежда на местата си и оставя едно удовлетворение у читателя!
May 20, 2025
Disappointed
I won this in a Goodreads giveaway. I like the author, J.D. Barker a lot but I am disappointed in this book. I found the story to be predictable and unbelievable at times. So many things happened to her, her judgment was completely off exasperated by the blow to the head.
I won this in a Goodreads giveaway. I like the author, J.D. Barker a lot but I am disappointed in this book. I found the story to be predictable and unbelievable at times. So many things happened to her, her judgment was completely off exasperated by the blow to the head.
November 8, 2025
So stupid, from beginning to end. Despite the fact that the author set up dozens of twists, every one was so predicable it was unbelievable. I was sure the author would go down the unreliable narrator route, that would have at least been interesting, but no. The protagonist really was at the center of a grand conspiracy from the very beginning, exactly as the reader was lead to believe, and in exactly the manner that any reader would predict.
For maximum drama the author makes sure that the protagonist is betrayed by every character that possibly could, while also making sure that every character on her side inevitably dies.
Some of the drama might be effective despite this, if it wasn't for the fact that every plot point develops out of pure coincidence. Every situation is maximally contrived to make sure that the perfect combination of characters arrive on scene at just the right time for the wackiest betrayal or death to occur. By the end of the book I was laughing at every over-the-top development being pushed one after another.
Also I have to say, the dialogue is terrible. Everyone speaks in quippy one-liners with no distinguishing personalities amongst them. You get the sense that everyone in the book is a big Marvel fan. Not to mention so many of the little details are so tropey and so obviously ripped from pop culture, like the protagonist stepping on a nail in the final act, or her daughter hitting her the "I'm not leaving without you" line out of every action movie ever written.
The villains are so comically evil and lacking in real motive for their actions they feel like something written on the spot to justify the protagonists bizarre actions. What little the villains have for a plan is completely nonsensical and could not possibly ever lead to them getting what they want. You get the sense the author has no idea how the world works, an idea that is not at all helped by the bizarre leniency the police give to the protagonist after every crime, or the complete lack of understanding the author has about guns, policing, or the medical industry.
I could write a hundred more nitpicks, but I'd like to move on from this novel. It's been quite some time since I've been an active reader, something that I'm trying to change, and I wanted to experiment with the thriller genre. This book makes me think maybe the genre just isn't for me. I could see the right person saying this book is cheap, stupid fun. If that's your thing, maybe you'll like it, but I'm confident there has to be better in the genre than this.
For maximum drama the author makes sure that the protagonist is betrayed by every character that possibly could, while also making sure that every character on her side inevitably dies.
Some of the drama might be effective despite this, if it wasn't for the fact that every plot point develops out of pure coincidence. Every situation is maximally contrived to make sure that the perfect combination of characters arrive on scene at just the right time for the wackiest betrayal or death to occur. By the end of the book I was laughing at every over-the-top development being pushed one after another.
Also I have to say, the dialogue is terrible. Everyone speaks in quippy one-liners with no distinguishing personalities amongst them. You get the sense that everyone in the book is a big Marvel fan. Not to mention so many of the little details are so tropey and so obviously ripped from pop culture, like the protagonist stepping on a nail in the final act, or her daughter hitting her the "I'm not leaving without you" line out of every action movie ever written.
The villains are so comically evil and lacking in real motive for their actions they feel like something written on the spot to justify the protagonists bizarre actions. What little the villains have for a plan is completely nonsensical and could not possibly ever lead to them getting what they want. You get the sense the author has no idea how the world works, an idea that is not at all helped by the bizarre leniency the police give to the protagonist after every crime, or the complete lack of understanding the author has about guns, policing, or the medical industry.
I could write a hundred more nitpicks, but I'd like to move on from this novel. It's been quite some time since I've been an active reader, something that I'm trying to change, and I wanted to experiment with the thriller genre. This book makes me think maybe the genre just isn't for me. I could see the right person saying this book is cheap, stupid fun. If that's your thing, maybe you'll like it, but I'm confident there has to be better in the genre than this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 18, 2025
There is no way JD Barker wrote this book. I think it must have all been this Richard Bailey dude. I would love to know what blackmail material Mr. Bailey has on Mr. Barker, in order to get his name first and foremost on this horrible book. If you have read The Fourth Monkey, you know what I'm talking about.
June 17, 2025
A free book in exchange for an honest review! Leggo!
I loved the premise of this book! The plot had enough twists to keep it interesting and fresh. While it didn't have any twists that elevated the book the way I wanted, it still carried the reader through the story in a way that kept it from getting overly stale and predictable which I was glad for. Every new piece of evidence added to Sierra's investigation and gave enough doubts to any prior theories that I was hesitant to commit to any one theory, but instead adjusted and grew each one.
And Sierra was likable enough to keep my interest. She could have been fleshed out more (which was a reoccurring complaint for me), but she was a pleasure to journey through the story with. She was smart, and cautious despite her amnesia, so there was very little annoying naivete or misplaced trust.
As with every giveaway book, I like to also point out things that fell short for me :)
The cons I saw are rather minimal.
The chapter structure was very repetitive: A twist in the last couple paragraphs that completely changes Sierra's focus. While this is a common structure, it's repetitiveness mixed with the short chapters make it a bit tedious and made me lose motivation to continue at times.
Alaina and Wesley's characters were probably my biggest complaint. They both had no depth whatsoever. Cookie cutter characters that felt more like a crutch than a asset. Wesley was given enough background for an attempt of depth, but even that little bit fell flat. And Alaina was just support at best, afterthought at the worst. While their characters are a minimal downside to the story, fleshing them out would have effortlessly elevated this series. This book could have been turned from a one-off read to a book that seriously sticks with the readers, if only more care was taken into fleshing the story out. Of which, the character development would have done wonders to get to that end.
3.5/5 stars
Thanks!
tl;dr
I enjoyed the book thoroughly, but it felt underdeveloped in a way that left me disappointed. With some character depth, and further engaging with certain plot points this book could have easily been a homerun. I wasn't bored by any means with it, but it gave the feeling of a draft rather than a finished book.
I loved the premise of this book! The plot had enough twists to keep it interesting and fresh. While it didn't have any twists that elevated the book the way I wanted, it still carried the reader through the story in a way that kept it from getting overly stale and predictable which I was glad for. Every new piece of evidence added to Sierra's investigation and gave enough doubts to any prior theories that I was hesitant to commit to any one theory, but instead adjusted and grew each one.
And Sierra was likable enough to keep my interest. She could have been fleshed out more (which was a reoccurring complaint for me), but she was a pleasure to journey through the story with. She was smart, and cautious despite her amnesia, so there was very little annoying naivete or misplaced trust.
As with every giveaway book, I like to also point out things that fell short for me :)
The cons I saw are rather minimal.
The chapter structure was very repetitive: A twist in the last couple paragraphs that completely changes Sierra's focus. While this is a common structure, it's repetitiveness mixed with the short chapters make it a bit tedious and made me lose motivation to continue at times.
Alaina and Wesley's characters were probably my biggest complaint. They both had no depth whatsoever. Cookie cutter characters that felt more like a crutch than a asset. Wesley was given enough background for an attempt of depth, but even that little bit fell flat. And Alaina was just support at best, afterthought at the worst. While their characters are a minimal downside to the story, fleshing them out would have effortlessly elevated this series. This book could have been turned from a one-off read to a book that seriously sticks with the readers, if only more care was taken into fleshing the story out. Of which, the character development would have done wonders to get to that end.
3.5/5 stars
Thanks!
tl;dr
I enjoyed the book thoroughly, but it felt underdeveloped in a way that left me disappointed. With some character depth, and further engaging with certain plot points this book could have easily been a homerun. I wasn't bored by any means with it, but it gave the feeling of a draft rather than a finished book.
July 3, 2025
Book Review: The Lies We Tell by J.D. Barker & Richard Bailey
Rating: 4.5/5
Concept & Narrative Craft
The Lies We Tell is a masterclass in psychological suspense, blending amnesia tropes with fresh, knife-edge tension. Barker and Bailey construct a labyrinthine plot where every revealed truth destabilizes both protagonist and reader, mirroring Sierra Coleman’s fractured psyche. The novel’s strength lies in its refusal to settle into predictability—each chapter subverts expectations, making the unreliable narrator device feel newly terrifying.
Strengths & Emotional Impact
The prose is taut and cinematic, with Barker’s signature razor-sharp pacing. Sierra’s desperation to reclaim her identity—while doubting her own memories—elicits visceral empathy. Scenes where she interacts with her “forgotten” daughter are particularly wrenching, grounding the thriller’s high stakes in intimate emotional turmoil.
Thematically, the book excels in exploring perception as prison. Supporting characters, from ambiguous allies to overt antagonists, are layered enough to keep readers distrustful yet invested. A standout sequence involving a hospital confrontation weaponizes silence and subtext to chilling effect.
Constructive Criticism
While the twists are electrifying, some rely heavily on withheld information, which may frustrate readers preferring organic foreshadowing. The middle act’s breakneck pace occasionally sacrifices deeper character development for plot momentum; a quieter interlude to delve into Sierra’s pre-amnesia life could have amplified the emotional payoff.
The finale, though explosive, borders on convoluted with its density of revelations. A subtler hand with one or two key twists might have preserved the narrative’s gut-punch impact without overwhelming.
Final Verdict
A relentless, brain-teasing thriller that redefines unputdownable. Despite minor pacing and clarity quibbles, The Lies We Tell delivers a rare blend of intellectual provocation and white-knuckle suspense. Recommended for:
-Fans of Gone Girl or The Girl on the Train seeking elevated unreliable narration.
-Readers who enjoy morally gray protagonists fighting systemic deception.
-Those craving thrillers where every page feels like a trapdoor.
Acknowledgments
Thank you to the publisher and Goodreads Giveaways for the complimentary copy, which allowed for an immersive engagement with this psychological tour de force.
Closing Note
A harrowing reminder that the most dangerous lies are the ones we tell ourselves. Barker and Bailey have crafted a hall-of-mirrors narrative that lingers long after the final twist.
Rating: 4.5/5
Concept & Narrative Craft
The Lies We Tell is a masterclass in psychological suspense, blending amnesia tropes with fresh, knife-edge tension. Barker and Bailey construct a labyrinthine plot where every revealed truth destabilizes both protagonist and reader, mirroring Sierra Coleman’s fractured psyche. The novel’s strength lies in its refusal to settle into predictability—each chapter subverts expectations, making the unreliable narrator device feel newly terrifying.
Strengths & Emotional Impact
The prose is taut and cinematic, with Barker’s signature razor-sharp pacing. Sierra’s desperation to reclaim her identity—while doubting her own memories—elicits visceral empathy. Scenes where she interacts with her “forgotten” daughter are particularly wrenching, grounding the thriller’s high stakes in intimate emotional turmoil.
Thematically, the book excels in exploring perception as prison. Supporting characters, from ambiguous allies to overt antagonists, are layered enough to keep readers distrustful yet invested. A standout sequence involving a hospital confrontation weaponizes silence and subtext to chilling effect.
Constructive Criticism
While the twists are electrifying, some rely heavily on withheld information, which may frustrate readers preferring organic foreshadowing. The middle act’s breakneck pace occasionally sacrifices deeper character development for plot momentum; a quieter interlude to delve into Sierra’s pre-amnesia life could have amplified the emotional payoff.
The finale, though explosive, borders on convoluted with its density of revelations. A subtler hand with one or two key twists might have preserved the narrative’s gut-punch impact without overwhelming.
Final Verdict
A relentless, brain-teasing thriller that redefines unputdownable. Despite minor pacing and clarity quibbles, The Lies We Tell delivers a rare blend of intellectual provocation and white-knuckle suspense. Recommended for:
-Fans of Gone Girl or The Girl on the Train seeking elevated unreliable narration.
-Readers who enjoy morally gray protagonists fighting systemic deception.
-Those craving thrillers where every page feels like a trapdoor.
Acknowledgments
Thank you to the publisher and Goodreads Giveaways for the complimentary copy, which allowed for an immersive engagement with this psychological tour de force.
Closing Note
A harrowing reminder that the most dangerous lies are the ones we tell ourselves. Barker and Bailey have crafted a hall-of-mirrors narrative that lingers long after the final twist.
July 26, 2025
I received this book from a Goodreads giveaway.
I have never read a J.D. Barker novel before and I liked this one.
When Sierra Coleman wakes up from a coma after a car accident that nearly killed her. she has no recollection of who she is or what her life is like. She a seems to have it all though- a handsome, hunky, successful husband, and amazing house, and a best friend that's been by her side since childhood. But something doesn't feel right to Sierra about what she's being told about who she is. When a chance encounter with someone from her past sheds a glimmer of light into her past life, Sierra seeks to uncover the truth. But what she's trying to find out, someone is willing to kill to keep the secrets hidden. Not sure who she can trust, Sierra must dig deep to unravel the web of lies around her.
Right from the start I was engaged with this book. I wanted to keep reading to find out what was going on and what the truth was. This book was engaging and fast paced, but I did find the plot to be mostly predictable. There were definitely things I didn't expect, but some character's motivation was definitely not shocking to me.
Overall I liked this book. I liked how Sadie had to grapple with what she thought she was like before the accident and what she was told she was like. I found this book to be a quick and engaging read.
I have never read a J.D. Barker novel before and I liked this one.
When Sierra Coleman wakes up from a coma after a car accident that nearly killed her. she has no recollection of who she is or what her life is like. She a seems to have it all though- a handsome, hunky, successful husband, and amazing house, and a best friend that's been by her side since childhood. But something doesn't feel right to Sierra about what she's being told about who she is. When a chance encounter with someone from her past sheds a glimmer of light into her past life, Sierra seeks to uncover the truth. But what she's trying to find out, someone is willing to kill to keep the secrets hidden. Not sure who she can trust, Sierra must dig deep to unravel the web of lies around her.
Right from the start I was engaged with this book. I wanted to keep reading to find out what was going on and what the truth was. This book was engaging and fast paced, but I did find the plot to be mostly predictable. There were definitely things I didn't expect, but some character's motivation was definitely not shocking to me.
Overall I liked this book. I liked how Sadie had to grapple with what she thought she was like before the accident and what she was told she was like. I found this book to be a quick and engaging read.
July 12, 2025
‘25 - 253 PGS - 2 STARS JD BARKER & 3 STARS RICHARD BAILEY
DESCRIPTION : In a world of lies, the truth is her deadliest weapon. Sierra Coleman awakens from a horrific crash, her mind a blank slate. But as she claws her way back to reality, she discovers her amnesia is just the tip of a sinister iceberg. Every "truth" she uncovers is another lie, every ally a potential enemy. With a daughter she can't remember and a life she doesn't recognize, Sierra is thrust into a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. As bodies pile up and shocking betrayals come to light, she realizes the key to her survival lies buried in her forgotten past. Barker's razor-sharp prose slices through the pages, each revelation more stunning than the last. This relentless, twist-filled rollercoaster will have you questioning everything until its explosive finale.
REVIEW :
Previous books by only this author, JD Barker, for me were Something I Keep Upstairs (‘25 - 2 Stars), Behind a Closed Door (‘24 - 3 Stars), A Caller’s Game (‘21 - 5 Stars) and The 4MK Thriller 3-Book Series : The Fourth Monkey (‘17), The Fifth to Die (‘18) and The Sixth Wicked Child (‘19) all 5 STARS.
Books written with James Patterson were The Writer (‘25 - 5 Stars), Confessions of the Dead (‘24 - 3 Stars), Death of the Black Widow (‘22 - 2 Stars), The Noise (‘21 - 3 Stars), The Coast-to-Coast Murders (‘20 - 4 Stars). I definitely think Mr. Barker’s own plots/storylines are so much better than the ones he writes with Mr. Patterson. Previous books by James Patterson were the Michael Bennett and Alex Cross Series and, of course, any books written with JD Barker. They’ve all received 4/5 stars. I’ve stopped reading any other James Patterson books since he calls the people who write for him “contributors” and will not call them co-authors. Just irks me.
First JD Barker book with Christine Daigle was Heavy are the Stones (Nov ‘24 - 4 Stars).
First JD Barker book with E.J. Findorff was We Don’t Talk About Emma (Feb ‘25 - 2 Stars). I won’t read any more books with EJ Findorff.
This (The Lies We Tell) is the first book written with Richard Bailey (‘25 - 2 Stars JD Barker & 3 Stars Richard Bailey). I don’t know if I would read anymore with Richard Bailey.
The first book written with Kyle Dunn was The Finer Things (7/8/25). Description did not interest me at all and lots of mediocre reviews as of 7/12/25. I DECIDED TO SKIP THIS ONE !!!
Earned Double Kindle Rewards with this purchase.
At the start of this book, first 20%, I don’t think this sounds like JD Barker at all. Writing is just boring so far. The story does pick-up a little as I read on but very slow. The ending of this book, turned into a Mr. Barker book, action packed. Toughest book I ever rated. This book might be an ““ok” 3 star read for Richard Bailey but it’s way beneath Mr Barker - 2 stars, even thought I enjoyed the ending.
PLEASE MR. BARKER, write more books on your own !
DESCRIPTION : In a world of lies, the truth is her deadliest weapon. Sierra Coleman awakens from a horrific crash, her mind a blank slate. But as she claws her way back to reality, she discovers her amnesia is just the tip of a sinister iceberg. Every "truth" she uncovers is another lie, every ally a potential enemy. With a daughter she can't remember and a life she doesn't recognize, Sierra is thrust into a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. As bodies pile up and shocking betrayals come to light, she realizes the key to her survival lies buried in her forgotten past. Barker's razor-sharp prose slices through the pages, each revelation more stunning than the last. This relentless, twist-filled rollercoaster will have you questioning everything until its explosive finale.
REVIEW :
Previous books by only this author, JD Barker, for me were Something I Keep Upstairs (‘25 - 2 Stars), Behind a Closed Door (‘24 - 3 Stars), A Caller’s Game (‘21 - 5 Stars) and The 4MK Thriller 3-Book Series : The Fourth Monkey (‘17), The Fifth to Die (‘18) and The Sixth Wicked Child (‘19) all 5 STARS.
Books written with James Patterson were The Writer (‘25 - 5 Stars), Confessions of the Dead (‘24 - 3 Stars), Death of the Black Widow (‘22 - 2 Stars), The Noise (‘21 - 3 Stars), The Coast-to-Coast Murders (‘20 - 4 Stars). I definitely think Mr. Barker’s own plots/storylines are so much better than the ones he writes with Mr. Patterson. Previous books by James Patterson were the Michael Bennett and Alex Cross Series and, of course, any books written with JD Barker. They’ve all received 4/5 stars. I’ve stopped reading any other James Patterson books since he calls the people who write for him “contributors” and will not call them co-authors. Just irks me.
First JD Barker book with Christine Daigle was Heavy are the Stones (Nov ‘24 - 4 Stars).
First JD Barker book with E.J. Findorff was We Don’t Talk About Emma (Feb ‘25 - 2 Stars). I won’t read any more books with EJ Findorff.
This (The Lies We Tell) is the first book written with Richard Bailey (‘25 - 2 Stars JD Barker & 3 Stars Richard Bailey). I don’t know if I would read anymore with Richard Bailey.
The first book written with Kyle Dunn was The Finer Things (7/8/25). Description did not interest me at all and lots of mediocre reviews as of 7/12/25. I DECIDED TO SKIP THIS ONE !!!
Earned Double Kindle Rewards with this purchase.
At the start of this book, first 20%, I don’t think this sounds like JD Barker at all. Writing is just boring so far. The story does pick-up a little as I read on but very slow. The ending of this book, turned into a Mr. Barker book, action packed. Toughest book I ever rated. This book might be an ““ok” 3 star read for Richard Bailey but it’s way beneath Mr Barker - 2 stars, even thought I enjoyed the ending.
PLEASE MR. BARKER, write more books on your own !
August 4, 2025
This was a page-turning roller coaster ride that kept me guessing. I couldn't figure out what was going on. But I had a few big issues with the way it all played out. I could understand the protagonist's decisions for the most part even if they were reckless at times. But when it all comes together she has 2 opportunities to grab a weapon and this isn't even mentioned. It never occurs to her??? I don't want to give anything away but I feel this was glossed over and under the circumstances made her seem inept. I also felt there were a few things that required a suspension of disbelief but I could accept the explanations on those. So, it's a great thriller until the end throws a couple of curve balls. Not the best of Barker but still a fun read. 3.5 rounded up.
August 7, 2025
Not a typical JD Barker book. The writing doesn’t really fit JD’s style, so had I read this without knowing whose name is on the cover, I’d have never said JD Barker was one of the authors.
The book finishes off a bit too neat and tidy. It held my attention, and I read it very quickly… but perhaps because of the writing… it’s a bit parochial.
Would I recommend it? Sure, if you go into this with an open mind and you’ve never read anything else before by JD. Then you’ll be fine. Also, if your favorite word is “churlish” you’ll be over the moon.
I’ll keep reading anything you write, JD. But I prefer your solo work.
The book finishes off a bit too neat and tidy. It held my attention, and I read it very quickly… but perhaps because of the writing… it’s a bit parochial.
Would I recommend it? Sure, if you go into this with an open mind and you’ve never read anything else before by JD. Then you’ll be fine. Also, if your favorite word is “churlish” you’ll be over the moon.
I’ll keep reading anything you write, JD. But I prefer your solo work.
August 13, 2025
“I understand why I am so torn. It’s because it’s like a stage play to me, a bunch of actors reading their lines and standing where they’re told to.”
“He seems sincere, but sincerity, I’ve learned, is cheaper than dime-store wine.”
“There’s a whole in her chest where her heart should be.” I literally laughed for 5 minutes! Great indirect nod to another of J.D.’s books!
I finished this one in a day and a half - I couldn’t put it down. Fast paced, good characters enough sleight of hand to keep me digging for who the villain(s) were. While I was right on some counts, the reason why they were villains was only revealed in the closing chapters of the book.
“He seems sincere, but sincerity, I’ve learned, is cheaper than dime-store wine.”
“There’s a whole in her chest where her heart should be.” I literally laughed for 5 minutes! Great indirect nod to another of J.D.’s books!
I finished this one in a day and a half - I couldn’t put it down. Fast paced, good characters enough sleight of hand to keep me digging for who the villain(s) were. While I was right on some counts, the reason why they were villains was only revealed in the closing chapters of the book.
July 3, 2025
3.5 stars - this was such an easy and engaging read. The story was simple and some of the dialogue was a bit cringy. Definitely a “popcorn thriller” to keep you entertained if you’re not looking for anything deep or thought provoking. Thanks for the Goodreads kindle win - I’ll continue to read this author.
July 24, 2025
This one started very slow...and about halfway through i was thinking of putting it down for awhile...but definitely picked way up...i have to say i consider myself a smart reader but picked up who was who and what was what early on...only a few surprises but had a good ending and so four stars!
August 6, 2025
great read
Definitely worth the read. Keeps you on the edge of your seat. I couldn’t put it down. If you like a good mystery then you will enjoy all the twist and turns in this story!!!
Definitely worth the read. Keeps you on the edge of your seat. I couldn’t put it down. If you like a good mystery then you will enjoy all the twist and turns in this story!!!
September 11, 2025
Suspenseful
A thriller where you question everything and everyone. How would you cope if you lost your memory and literally had no idea who you were? A strong female character fighting for her life.
A thriller where you question everything and everyone. How would you cope if you lost your memory and literally had no idea who you were? A strong female character fighting for her life.
October 24, 2025
Ah, one of my favourite tropes - the main character loses their memory after a traumatic incident. The novel held my attention in the first half but it really spiralled off into a rather ludicrous connection of plot resolutions.
June 20, 2025
I've read a few of JD's books but this one was terrible . A giant waste of time. So improbable it was insulting.
July 2, 2025
Excellent read!!!
I love JD Barker books because I'm never disappointed. And this book was no different. All the twists were very surprising, and I only figured out one of them!
I love JD Barker books because I'm never disappointed. And this book was no different. All the twists were very surprising, and I only figured out one of them!
August 6, 2025
I couldn’t stop reading it. Interesting plot twists and overall easy and quick read, especially if you like psychological thrillers.
August 17, 2025
I must say this writer sure has a way with writing fast pace suspense novels. I won't say this was as good as the last one I read, but it was damn close with a better ending.
August 20, 2025
I could not put this book down.
August 28, 2025
This has short chapters and was a quick mystery to read in one day. But the plot is over-the-top. I generally hate amnesia plot lines, but this one seemed particularly ridiculous.
August 30, 2025
Got bored halfway through. The ending was a letdown. Too many random characters too
September 4, 2025
Pues no me ha acabado de gustar y mira que soy fan del autor.
No he empatizado con los personajes y el final no me ha convencido.
No he empatizado con los personajes y el final no me ha convencido.
September 13, 2025
En ningún momento te esperas la gran revelación básicamente porque el autor no da ninguna pista en todo el libro... muy flojo.
September 19, 2025
I miss JD Barker writing solo.
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