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Some of Us Are Liars: The Gripping Detective Thriller With The 'Never Saw It Coming' Twist
There’s your side. My side. And the truth.
Lisa Jewell meets Jodi Picoult in a story of betrayal and deception in the aftermath of family tragedy.
She must face justice. As her sister it kills me to say it. As his mother I demand it.
When Jen Miller entrusts her youngest child to the care of her beloved sisters, she has no idea of the devastating tragedy that is about to unfold.
To celebrate her sister's wedding, global superstar Winter Kellaway throws the party of the decade at her luxurious beachside estate. The decorations are flawless. The champagne is on ice. The guests have arrived. But one misstep will have heartbreaking consequences that will rock this close-knit family to their core.
With her life in pieces, how can Jen ever begin to forgive?
Saul Anguish, a brilliant but tormented young detective, is called in to investigate and uncovers a long-buried and shocking family secret. As the trail takes a dramatic turn, they must now all face the truth that you can never truly leave the past behind . . .
Lisa Jewell meets Jodi Picoult in a story of betrayal and deception in the aftermath of family tragedy.
She must face justice. As her sister it kills me to say it. As his mother I demand it.
When Jen Miller entrusts her youngest child to the care of her beloved sisters, she has no idea of the devastating tragedy that is about to unfold.
To celebrate her sister's wedding, global superstar Winter Kellaway throws the party of the decade at her luxurious beachside estate. The decorations are flawless. The champagne is on ice. The guests have arrived. But one misstep will have heartbreaking consequences that will rock this close-knit family to their core.
With her life in pieces, how can Jen ever begin to forgive?
Saul Anguish, a brilliant but tormented young detective, is called in to investigate and uncovers a long-buried and shocking family secret. As the trail takes a dramatic turn, they must now all face the truth that you can never truly leave the past behind . . .
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First published June 19, 2025
62 people are currently reading
995 people want to read
About the author
Fiona Cummins
13 books556 followersFiona Cummins is an award-winning former Daily Mirror showbusiness journalist and a graduate of the Faber Academy Writing A Novel course. She lives in Essex with her family. Rattle is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
August 7, 2025
The writing was excellent, but I felt the plot didn’t captivate or interest me enough.
June 23, 2025
‘The Kellaway sisters. All for one and one for all.’
Sisters, Winter, Jen, and Alyssa share an unshakable bond. Well, at least they thought they did. Until the fateful day when a split-second reckless decision resulted in Jen’s 4-year son, Teddy’s, death. As the date of the sensation trial approaches all eyes are on the Kellaway family, and some of them are liars.
A moving and stirring page-turner for sure but I wasn’t as enamoured by this one as the first two in the series (Into the Dark and All of Us Are Broken) as Some of Us are Liars was more domestic noir, family drama/tragedy, courtroom drama rather than suspenseful thriller therefore wasn’t as fast-paced or exciting. Don’t get me wrong it was still a great read, and contained some mystery, tension, and police procedural elements but those genres did take a bit of a backseat, as did DC Saul Anguish and Dr Clover ‘Blue’ March, recurring characters from the series.
I guessed part of a twist but not the complete picture, and there were other unexpected shocks as well, all of which caught me off guard. The main narrators were Saul and the three sisters, but there were also a handful of other narrators including Blue. Events centred around the lead-up-to and day of Teddy’s death (2023), the court case (2024), with flashbacks to a girl named Hannah in 1986, as well as the sisters childhood.
I love this author, and this series, and cannot wait to see what happens next.
February 17, 2025
I enjoy Fiona Cummins novels and I particularly enjoy the character of Saul Anguish however he doesn't really play a major role within this novel.
The story tells the story of the Miller sisters, Jen, Alyssa and the famous Winter. When a wedding party is held for Jen, tragedy strikes which causes a rift between the sisters and leads to an unceremonious court case which pits the sisters against each other.
However, what happened on the night in question remains a mystery - it is clear to the reader that what we know is only half the story but what really happened will.....well, read on to find out....
Thanks to Netgalley and Pan Macmillan | Macmillan for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story tells the story of the Miller sisters, Jen, Alyssa and the famous Winter. When a wedding party is held for Jen, tragedy strikes which causes a rift between the sisters and leads to an unceremonious court case which pits the sisters against each other.
However, what happened on the night in question remains a mystery - it is clear to the reader that what we know is only half the story but what really happened will.....well, read on to find out....
Thanks to Netgalley and Pan Macmillan | Macmillan for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2025
So good!
Such clever plot with truly gripping twists. I really engaged with the characters, even the unlikeable ones. The plot felt slightly complex and disjointed initially, but it comes together with ferocity. I’d say the first half should be read in one sitting to keep track of timelines, characters and connections.
Fingers crossed for another book focused on Saul.
Such clever plot with truly gripping twists. I really engaged with the characters, even the unlikeable ones. The plot felt slightly complex and disjointed initially, but it comes together with ferocity. I’d say the first half should be read in one sitting to keep track of timelines, characters and connections.
Fingers crossed for another book focused on Saul.
May 29, 2025
This is only really worth it for the last few pages. The first half of this book jumps without cohesion through so many POVs of people you don't care about and aren't given the time to. The midpoint is the twist that was heavily implied from the start and while the twists during the trial were intresting they were too rushed and frankly too late. If I wasn't craving a thriller I would have DNFed this because the intrigue wasn't really there apart from one POV that popped up 2 or 3 times and was the only bit I was invested in. Also one character having 3 names was plain stupid. Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC
June 29, 2025
being one of four sisters,
I sobbed through this new
installment in saul anguish
series: a dark tense family
drama, full of twists. ♡
I sobbed through this new
installment in saul anguish
series: a dark tense family
drama, full of twists. ♡
November 26, 2025
Jeez.. I am confused… I know Fiona Cummins. I’ve met her lots of times in real life at book festivals and events and she is absolutely LOVELY. She’s sweet and funny, always very chatty and approachable and fascinating to listen to at events talking about her writing process.
So it’s always difficult to align the real person with the twisted, deranged and obviously disturbed author who continues to produce book after book looking at the darkest elements of life writing stories that contains themes that most of us would consider unimaginable. Fiona not only imagines these scenarios but she brings them to life in her brutal and emotional books.
I’ve been a fan of Fiona since I read her debut book Rattle in December 2016 and have read them all over the years. Some of Us Are Liars is the latest book and features Saul Anguish from Into the Dark and All of Us Are Broken, however it absolutely can be read as a standalone (which is something I don’t often say or recommend!)
The blurb above tells you that this book is NOT a comfortable story. It’s about a very close-knit and supportive family of 3 sisters and a devasting and tragic event that rips the family apart.
As a mother, sister and aunt, I could not begin to imagine how any of the characters in this story were able to function, let alone move forward after this tragedy and my heart was breaking throughout.
Once again, Fiona has created a story that keeps the reader completely absorbed from the opening chapter to the very last page. Told through various narrators, some more reliable than others, Some of Us Are Liars is a masterclass of twisted and dark psychological thrillers with quite a few “OMG” moments that you absolutely won’t see coming.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
So it’s always difficult to align the real person with the twisted, deranged and obviously disturbed author who continues to produce book after book looking at the darkest elements of life writing stories that contains themes that most of us would consider unimaginable. Fiona not only imagines these scenarios but she brings them to life in her brutal and emotional books.
I’ve been a fan of Fiona since I read her debut book Rattle in December 2016 and have read them all over the years. Some of Us Are Liars is the latest book and features Saul Anguish from Into the Dark and All of Us Are Broken, however it absolutely can be read as a standalone (which is something I don’t often say or recommend!)
The blurb above tells you that this book is NOT a comfortable story. It’s about a very close-knit and supportive family of 3 sisters and a devasting and tragic event that rips the family apart.
As a mother, sister and aunt, I could not begin to imagine how any of the characters in this story were able to function, let alone move forward after this tragedy and my heart was breaking throughout.
Once again, Fiona has created a story that keeps the reader completely absorbed from the opening chapter to the very last page. Told through various narrators, some more reliable than others, Some of Us Are Liars is a masterclass of twisted and dark psychological thrillers with quite a few “OMG” moments that you absolutely won’t see coming.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
March 9, 2025
Ever since I read Fiona Cummins’ debut novel RATTLE, I have been a huge fan of her books. Some of Us Are Liars is her latest offering, and it’s brilliant. This gripping dark, psychological thriller is packed with secrets, betrayal, and shocking twists. While Some of Us Are Liars is undoubtedly a thrilling page-turner, it also delves into themes of guilt, loyalty, and the lengths people will go to in order to protect their loved ones.
When Jen Miller leaves her child with her sisters Alyssa and Winter to attend a glamorous wedding party, a single mistake leads to devastating consequences. The tragedy results in a rift between the sisters and leads to an explosive court case. As Detective Saul Anguish investigates, buried family secrets unravel, proving that the past is never truly behind us.
One of my favourite types of reads features an unreliable narrator and in this case we get three sisters! Fiona Cummins masterfully weaves a story where truth is never as clear as it seems. As the story unfolds through shifting perspectives, it becomes evident that everyone has something to hide—and you never know whose truth is the real truth. This constant uncertainty keeps the tension high, ensuring a gripping reading experience from start to finish.
Fiona Cummins’ writing shines in her ability to create deeply flawed yet compelling characters, making the reader emotionally invested in their fates. The novel is brimming with tension as she peels back the layers to reveal an intricate and deliciously twisted tale that will blow your socks off! Some of Us Are Liars is a masterclass in psychological suspense—gripping, unsettling, and packed with twists that will leave you questioning everything until the very last page! A MUST read for 2025.
You can follow my reviews at
Blog: https://thebookreviewcafe.wordpress.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebookrevi...
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/@reviewcafe
When Jen Miller leaves her child with her sisters Alyssa and Winter to attend a glamorous wedding party, a single mistake leads to devastating consequences. The tragedy results in a rift between the sisters and leads to an explosive court case. As Detective Saul Anguish investigates, buried family secrets unravel, proving that the past is never truly behind us.
One of my favourite types of reads features an unreliable narrator and in this case we get three sisters! Fiona Cummins masterfully weaves a story where truth is never as clear as it seems. As the story unfolds through shifting perspectives, it becomes evident that everyone has something to hide—and you never know whose truth is the real truth. This constant uncertainty keeps the tension high, ensuring a gripping reading experience from start to finish.
Fiona Cummins’ writing shines in her ability to create deeply flawed yet compelling characters, making the reader emotionally invested in their fates. The novel is brimming with tension as she peels back the layers to reveal an intricate and deliciously twisted tale that will blow your socks off! Some of Us Are Liars is a masterclass in psychological suspense—gripping, unsettling, and packed with twists that will leave you questioning everything until the very last page! A MUST read for 2025.
You can follow my reviews at
Blog: https://thebookreviewcafe.wordpress.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebookrevi...
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/@reviewcafe
June 29, 2025
Wow, this is an amazing book. I loved it. The story is full of twists I never imagined. D.C. Saul Anguish is a wonderful character, quite strange but likeable. I can’t wait for the next book by Fiona Cummins.
April 17, 2025
“A four-foot box, a foot for every year.”
Wow. This book. I had a feeling Some of Us Are Liars was going to be something special from the moment I read that opening quote. Fiona Cummins’ writing is incredibly good. She doesn’t just tell a story – she breathes life into it with the kind of observational detail that makes you pause and re-read a sentence just to appreciate how perfectly it’s phrased. An absolute masterclass in show, don’t tell.
The timelines do bounce back and forth, and I found myself flipping pages to keep the track, but honestly, that’s a small price to pay for such a layered and emotionally raw story. The characters are beautifully flawed, deeply human and relatable, and the weight of grief and guilt is explored in ways that made my heart ache. Full of tension, there were moments when I literally held my breath.
And let’s just take a moment to appreciate the twists. So many. So jaw-dropping. Completely left me reeling, as did the ending.
This was my first time reading this author but it won’t be my last. I was ready to add her entire back catalogue to my TBR list by about chapter 4. I was hooked, shocked, heartbroken and completely in awe of the way this story unfolded.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review. An easy 5 stars from this reader who doesn’t give them lightly.
Wow. This book. I had a feeling Some of Us Are Liars was going to be something special from the moment I read that opening quote. Fiona Cummins’ writing is incredibly good. She doesn’t just tell a story – she breathes life into it with the kind of observational detail that makes you pause and re-read a sentence just to appreciate how perfectly it’s phrased. An absolute masterclass in show, don’t tell.
The timelines do bounce back and forth, and I found myself flipping pages to keep the track, but honestly, that’s a small price to pay for such a layered and emotionally raw story. The characters are beautifully flawed, deeply human and relatable, and the weight of grief and guilt is explored in ways that made my heart ache. Full of tension, there were moments when I literally held my breath.
And let’s just take a moment to appreciate the twists. So many. So jaw-dropping. Completely left me reeling, as did the ending.
This was my first time reading this author but it won’t be my last. I was ready to add her entire back catalogue to my TBR list by about chapter 4. I was hooked, shocked, heartbroken and completely in awe of the way this story unfolded.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review. An easy 5 stars from this reader who doesn’t give them lightly.
June 28, 2025
My Rating: 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I love this author and I love this series, I was not let down!!!
There is your side. My side. And the truth.
A family tragedy, lies and truths and the aftermath that will tear a family apart.
A child is dead, sisters are torn apart and nothing will ever be the same again… and someone must pay the ultimate price.
Saul Anguish, a brilliant but tormented young detective, is called to investigate and uncovers a long-buried shocking secret.
Saul has his own secrets that are ever closer to the surface and may just put him in danger … what lengths will sisters go to for and against each other and what lengths will a detective go to, to stay out of prison.
Firstly you might be thinking this is not a series… you would be wrong. You could read this as a standalone but there are four other books that come before it and a short story that goes in between book 2 and 3. It is not really marketed as a series but rest assured if you read it in order you will not be disappointed.
I love these books so much I wait all year, it comes out and I read it all in one or two sittings and now here I am waiting again… I am never disapointed though. I love that the original storyline from The Collector is still in there in the undertones of Saul’s character making him both a good and bad guy.
I love the relationship between Saul and Blue and its as complicated as it can ever get in this book… the ending though it sent me into orbit… I was kind of expecting it and not expecting it but also it is left ambiguous so who really knows what happens… now I NEEED another book please Fiona!!!
The storyline of three Kellaway sisters is intriguing and fraught and you think its going to go one way and then there is a sharp unexpected turn in the opposite direction. Its great.
The thing though that really hooks me in about these books and Fiona Cummins is that she prepares for the reader a really complex story there are multiple POV, multiple timelines, and multi-POV/Timelines that are on top of the actual storyline that you think you are following.. it is never confusing (for me anyway) but you are in the dark for most of the book. There are things that happen in the past or present that seem to have no meaning whatsoever… but then … BOOM its completely and utterly part of the story and you don’t even realise how you couldn’t see it coming.
These books are violent and thrilling and I love every minute of them… and this is no exception. There is so much happening and its always tense and you feel like something really sinister is coming and there are always multiple revelations.
I am hooked on these books and I will always recommend but… the caveat is that you need to be able to wait… you need to be able to follow along and be comfortable not understanding until the author wants you to understand… be patient and enjoy the burn… it will make it all the more interesting and thrilling.
If you haven’t read the first four books in the series you could definitely read this… but I think you will miss a lot of the nuance and why Saul is the way he is. It really does add to the reading experience.
Overall, I recommend to anyone who already loves this author/series, and to anyone who wants to give her a go. If you cannot handle multi-pov/timeline then I would warn you away.
I am now impatiently waiting the next in the series.
There is your side. My side. And the truth.
A family tragedy, lies and truths and the aftermath that will tear a family apart.
A child is dead, sisters are torn apart and nothing will ever be the same again… and someone must pay the ultimate price.
Saul Anguish, a brilliant but tormented young detective, is called to investigate and uncovers a long-buried shocking secret.
Saul has his own secrets that are ever closer to the surface and may just put him in danger … what lengths will sisters go to for and against each other and what lengths will a detective go to, to stay out of prison.
Firstly you might be thinking this is not a series… you would be wrong. You could read this as a standalone but there are four other books that come before it and a short story that goes in between book 2 and 3. It is not really marketed as a series but rest assured if you read it in order you will not be disappointed.
I love these books so much I wait all year, it comes out and I read it all in one or two sittings and now here I am waiting again… I am never disapointed though. I love that the original storyline from The Collector is still in there in the undertones of Saul’s character making him both a good and bad guy.
I love the relationship between Saul and Blue and its as complicated as it can ever get in this book… the ending though it sent me into orbit… I was kind of expecting it and not expecting it but also it is left ambiguous so who really knows what happens… now I NEEED another book please Fiona!!!
The storyline of three Kellaway sisters is intriguing and fraught and you think its going to go one way and then there is a sharp unexpected turn in the opposite direction. Its great.
The thing though that really hooks me in about these books and Fiona Cummins is that she prepares for the reader a really complex story there are multiple POV, multiple timelines, and multi-POV/Timelines that are on top of the actual storyline that you think you are following.. it is never confusing (for me anyway) but you are in the dark for most of the book. There are things that happen in the past or present that seem to have no meaning whatsoever… but then … BOOM its completely and utterly part of the story and you don’t even realise how you couldn’t see it coming.
These books are violent and thrilling and I love every minute of them… and this is no exception. There is so much happening and its always tense and you feel like something really sinister is coming and there are always multiple revelations.
I am hooked on these books and I will always recommend but… the caveat is that you need to be able to wait… you need to be able to follow along and be comfortable not understanding until the author wants you to understand… be patient and enjoy the burn… it will make it all the more interesting and thrilling.
If you haven’t read the first four books in the series you could definitely read this… but I think you will miss a lot of the nuance and why Saul is the way he is. It really does add to the reading experience.
Overall, I recommend to anyone who already loves this author/series, and to anyone who wants to give her a go. If you cannot handle multi-pov/timeline then I would warn you away.
I am now impatiently waiting the next in the series.
June 3, 2025
This wasn’t quite what I expected but I found it incredibly compelling nonetheless. It may offer some psychological insight, but 'Some Of Us Are Liars' is really way more family drama than psychological thriller, in my opinion.
These three sisters couldn’t be more different from each other if they tried. Each one has their part to play in the sister dynamics. The self-centered one, the peacemaker, and the baby who never quite seems to fit in. Naturally, there is a slew of secrets and deception to be discovered. Some more obvious than others, but all will have an impact on the entire family.
I very much disliked the oldest sister, Winter. Even after learning more about her, I failed to feel empathy towards her. She came across as selfish, with no qualms about hurting any of the people around her, or making everything about her. I had an issue with the other two sisters letting her walk all over them, pushing her ideas onto them, with no regard for what they wanted. There were moments where I couldn’t quite relate to decisions that were made by the characters, and I am sure I would, without a doubt, not have been as forgiving as some.
I felt rather quickly that there was more to the story of what happened at the wedding. However, I never could have imagined the devastation and heartbreak that came with the conclusion. The court room proceedings that followed this unfortunate event left me with a lump in my throat on more than one occasion.
As for Saul. While his part in the Kellaway story is rather minimal, the impression he leaves behind is once again incredibly strong. Saul is becoming creepier and darker with each instalment in this series. His past actions are catching up with him. While most of 'Some Of Us Are Liars' is a stand-alone story, Saul’s most certainly is not. You should really read the previous books to find out how he got here, what makes him tick (Ha! Good luck with that.), and how far towards the dark side he could possibly go. I say "could", and not "willing" because it's just something that feels inevitable somehow. He is an impossible character to like, but his chapters serve as a great contrast to the closeness and protectiveness of the Kellaway family.
There was a sense of foreboding and yet, I wasn’t prepared for that penultimate chapter. It chilled me to the bone and I can't wait to find out what happens next.
These three sisters couldn’t be more different from each other if they tried. Each one has their part to play in the sister dynamics. The self-centered one, the peacemaker, and the baby who never quite seems to fit in. Naturally, there is a slew of secrets and deception to be discovered. Some more obvious than others, but all will have an impact on the entire family.
I very much disliked the oldest sister, Winter. Even after learning more about her, I failed to feel empathy towards her. She came across as selfish, with no qualms about hurting any of the people around her, or making everything about her. I had an issue with the other two sisters letting her walk all over them, pushing her ideas onto them, with no regard for what they wanted. There were moments where I couldn’t quite relate to decisions that were made by the characters, and I am sure I would, without a doubt, not have been as forgiving as some.
I felt rather quickly that there was more to the story of what happened at the wedding. However, I never could have imagined the devastation and heartbreak that came with the conclusion. The court room proceedings that followed this unfortunate event left me with a lump in my throat on more than one occasion.
As for Saul. While his part in the Kellaway story is rather minimal, the impression he leaves behind is once again incredibly strong. Saul is becoming creepier and darker with each instalment in this series. His past actions are catching up with him. While most of 'Some Of Us Are Liars' is a stand-alone story, Saul’s most certainly is not. You should really read the previous books to find out how he got here, what makes him tick (Ha! Good luck with that.), and how far towards the dark side he could possibly go. I say "could", and not "willing" because it's just something that feels inevitable somehow. He is an impossible character to like, but his chapters serve as a great contrast to the closeness and protectiveness of the Kellaway family.
There was a sense of foreboding and yet, I wasn’t prepared for that penultimate chapter. It chilled me to the bone and I can't wait to find out what happens next.
June 18, 2025
Fiona Cummins is back with another epic, dark psychological thriller. As this is a story that is packed with secrets, betrayal and shocking twists and believe me, whilst this is a page-turner, it is also a story that brilliantly delves into themes of guilt, loyalty, and the lengths people go to to protect the ones they love.
As Jen Miller married her partner in a private ceremony, and now her family, including her two sisters, want to celebrate. This means her famous sister Winter is paying for and throwing a lavish weekend celebration including a party, where Jen and Phil will marry again.
But it's a weekend that will end in tragedy. When a single mistake leads to devastating consequences and a rift between the sisters culminating in an explosive court case. And it's up to Detective Saul Anguish to investigate a family full of buried secrets.
And Fiona Cummins masterfully weaves a story where the narrators are unreliable, the truths are never clear and you never know who is really telling them. Which created a palpable tension, compelling me to turn the pages as quickly as possible.
And with flawed yet intriguing characters who draw you in. Some of Us Are Liars unfolds like layers being peeled from an onion, leaving you questioning everything, making it an unputdownable and unforgettable read, and that ending... WOW! If you pick up just one book this week, make sure it's this one! It’s seriously that good!
My thanks to NetGalley. All thoughts expressed are my own. 😊
As Jen Miller married her partner in a private ceremony, and now her family, including her two sisters, want to celebrate. This means her famous sister Winter is paying for and throwing a lavish weekend celebration including a party, where Jen and Phil will marry again.
But it's a weekend that will end in tragedy. When a single mistake leads to devastating consequences and a rift between the sisters culminating in an explosive court case. And it's up to Detective Saul Anguish to investigate a family full of buried secrets.
And Fiona Cummins masterfully weaves a story where the narrators are unreliable, the truths are never clear and you never know who is really telling them. Which created a palpable tension, compelling me to turn the pages as quickly as possible.
And with flawed yet intriguing characters who draw you in. Some of Us Are Liars unfolds like layers being peeled from an onion, leaving you questioning everything, making it an unputdownable and unforgettable read, and that ending... WOW! If you pick up just one book this week, make sure it's this one! It’s seriously that good!
My thanks to NetGalley. All thoughts expressed are my own. 😊
March 4, 2025
With many thanks to Netgalley for this free arc and I am leaving this unbiased review voluntarily
I absolutely loved All of Us Are Broken so super excited to be reading Some of Us Are Liars. The complex and highly fascinating Saul Anguish returns in this dark and tragic family drama. Heartbreaking and harrowing in places with twists and revelations, I found this book hard to put down. Told from multiple POV in flashback style this multi layered story is beautifully written. One jaw dropping defining moment left me reeling and the ending (hopefully) will lead nicely into the next book. This a fantastic read and gets all the stars in the world. A masterpiece from Ms Cummins
December 21, 2025
Release date: 06-19-25
Length: 9 hrs and 57 mins
Narrated by Olivia Dowd
Another thriller about secrets and a past that won’t stay buried. TBH I found it hard to get into the story because author kept jumping between different characters and timelines, so it was difficult to warm up to any of the characters and understand what was going on. I hoped that at some point this story will hook me but sadly this was all so depressing and gloomy, that I wanted it to be over and pick up something more interesting and gripping!
Length: 9 hrs and 57 mins
Narrated by Olivia Dowd
Another thriller about secrets and a past that won’t stay buried. TBH I found it hard to get into the story because author kept jumping between different characters and timelines, so it was difficult to warm up to any of the characters and understand what was going on. I hoped that at some point this story will hook me but sadly this was all so depressing and gloomy, that I wanted it to be over and pick up something more interesting and gripping!
March 22, 2025
Unputtabledown. Plenty of excellent misdirection. Empathetic characters. A tragedy no one would wish upon their worst enemy, and the lengths family will go to protect their own. An ongoing thread from a previous novel, blended into the main drama, with the promise of more in a future story. All of which pretty much guarantees a one-sitting read, or a very late night! The denouement is clever, subtle, emotive and inordinately satisfying. I was a bit surprised to find a few USA sellings in a Brit-centred novel, but there you go … enjoy!
Pub 19th June, 2025.
Pub 19th June, 2025.
June 30, 2025
#gifted
I really wanted to love this one. A glitzy setting, tangled family loyalties, and a party that ends in tragedy? Count me in! But sadly, it didn’t deliver.
It opens well enough: high stakes, snappy chapters, a clear sense of drama. But the more I read, the more it lost its shape. The multiple points of view felt jarring and disjointed, some arriving without context or real purpose. Not to mention the jumping timelines. There’s a lot of telling, a fair bit of repetition, and an almost soap opera level of melodrama that wore thin very quickly.
I don’t mind a cast of unlikeable characters, but here, there wasn’t enough depth to make their messiness compelling. I just couldn’t bring myself to care about them, and once the plot twist showed its hand (a full mile off), the suspense was gone.
It’s pacy, yes, and very readable, but ultimately predictable and forgettable, falling into holiday reading fluff territory. One for readers who enjoy big messy family drama and courtroom fallout, but I’ll be honest, it wasn’t for me.
Thanks to the publisher for sending me a copy and inviting me on the book tour. As always, views are entirely my own.
I really wanted to love this one. A glitzy setting, tangled family loyalties, and a party that ends in tragedy? Count me in! But sadly, it didn’t deliver.
It opens well enough: high stakes, snappy chapters, a clear sense of drama. But the more I read, the more it lost its shape. The multiple points of view felt jarring and disjointed, some arriving without context or real purpose. Not to mention the jumping timelines. There’s a lot of telling, a fair bit of repetition, and an almost soap opera level of melodrama that wore thin very quickly.
I don’t mind a cast of unlikeable characters, but here, there wasn’t enough depth to make their messiness compelling. I just couldn’t bring myself to care about them, and once the plot twist showed its hand (a full mile off), the suspense was gone.
It’s pacy, yes, and very readable, but ultimately predictable and forgettable, falling into holiday reading fluff territory. One for readers who enjoy big messy family drama and courtroom fallout, but I’ll be honest, it wasn’t for me.
Thanks to the publisher for sending me a copy and inviting me on the book tour. As always, views are entirely my own.
March 14, 2025
Some of Us Are Liars by Fiona Cummins is an intricately woven family drama with elements of crime and courtroom suspense. While the book's title and marketing suggest a twisty thriller filled with deception, it is, at its core, a deeply layered exploration of a fractured family. The story revolves around the complex relationships between three sisters, particularly Winter, a successful but manipulative film star, as they navigate past trauma and a present-day tragedy. Cummins’ writing is undeniably strong, with vivid prose that brings the characters and their tangled emotions to life, making for an immersive, if somewhat slow, reading experience.
Despite its strengths, the novel suffers from a misclassification that may disappoint readers expecting a traditional thriller. The pacing is slow, with the inciting incident arriving far too late, making the first half feel like an extended setup rather than a gripping mystery. The transition into a courtroom drama is unexpected, and the charges brought against one character seem shaky at best, requiring a stretch of belief. While this shift allows for the gradual unraveling of secrets, it doesn’t deliver the kind of high-stakes tension one would expect from a thriller.
Another weak point is the inclusion of Detective Saul, whose role in the novel feels peripheral at best. Having not read previous books featuring him, I was initially unaware that he was part of an ongoing series. However, this did not impact my understanding of the story—largely because his narrative felt disconnected from the main plot. His brief appearances seem more like an attempt to tie this novel to a larger universe rather than a necessary component of the story. His character, with traits more akin to the criminals he pursues, also failed to add much depth or relevance to the unfolding family drama.
Ultimately, Some of Us Are Liars is a well-written, character-driven novel that will appeal to readers who enjoy slow-burning family sagas with intricate relationships and psychological depth. However, those expecting a fast-paced thriller filled with shocking twists may find themselves disappointed.
Despite its strengths, the novel suffers from a misclassification that may disappoint readers expecting a traditional thriller. The pacing is slow, with the inciting incident arriving far too late, making the first half feel like an extended setup rather than a gripping mystery. The transition into a courtroom drama is unexpected, and the charges brought against one character seem shaky at best, requiring a stretch of belief. While this shift allows for the gradual unraveling of secrets, it doesn’t deliver the kind of high-stakes tension one would expect from a thriller.
Another weak point is the inclusion of Detective Saul, whose role in the novel feels peripheral at best. Having not read previous books featuring him, I was initially unaware that he was part of an ongoing series. However, this did not impact my understanding of the story—largely because his narrative felt disconnected from the main plot. His brief appearances seem more like an attempt to tie this novel to a larger universe rather than a necessary component of the story. His character, with traits more akin to the criminals he pursues, also failed to add much depth or relevance to the unfolding family drama.
Ultimately, Some of Us Are Liars is a well-written, character-driven novel that will appeal to readers who enjoy slow-burning family sagas with intricate relationships and psychological depth. However, those expecting a fast-paced thriller filled with shocking twists may find themselves disappointed.
July 7, 2025
Wow! This is a slow-burning thriller full of family, secrets, lies, betrayal and a tragic accident. I honestly don’t know how to do this book justice in review but I will try my very best to do so. I listened to this audiobook that is split into four parts telling the story and giving the back story that sews it all together.
Because of the back story and the different POVs throughout it did take me a little while to fully get into the story. That took nothing away from the intrigue and the sheer want to know what happened. We are given a bit of information and then we see the devastating tragedy play out. I must admit I hadn’t pieced it together in anyway shape or form so I was shocked as the reveals came thick and fast in the later section of this novel.
Fiona Cummins has created a family full of intrigue, secrets and devastating lies. What made my heart was the deep sense of wanting to do whatever it took to look after those we love. Even if we can’t change the tragic circumstances. We can create a better future for those of us left where possible. That was heart wrenching in so many ways. As an auntie and sister this one got me in so many ways.
The back story of that of the sisters was extremely hard to hear. But ultimately what brought them together and also what had a hand in tearing them apart.
Saul was extremely interesting to me and I felt myself feeling for him in the later parts of the novel. I have also realised this character has appeared in books of Fiona’s that I’m yet to read. That will be changing soon as I’m intrigued to know more about him and what makes him tick.
I enjoyed the audiobook but it maybe an easier read to get in reading with the different povs. But I must say an enjoyable read that would have been finished sooner if headaches hadn’t featured in the middle alongside an important career day. So, for anyone that’s read everything from Fiona what Saul based read should I tackle next?
Because of the back story and the different POVs throughout it did take me a little while to fully get into the story. That took nothing away from the intrigue and the sheer want to know what happened. We are given a bit of information and then we see the devastating tragedy play out. I must admit I hadn’t pieced it together in anyway shape or form so I was shocked as the reveals came thick and fast in the later section of this novel.
Fiona Cummins has created a family full of intrigue, secrets and devastating lies. What made my heart was the deep sense of wanting to do whatever it took to look after those we love. Even if we can’t change the tragic circumstances. We can create a better future for those of us left where possible. That was heart wrenching in so many ways. As an auntie and sister this one got me in so many ways.
The back story of that of the sisters was extremely hard to hear. But ultimately what brought them together and also what had a hand in tearing them apart.
Saul was extremely interesting to me and I felt myself feeling for him in the later parts of the novel. I have also realised this character has appeared in books of Fiona’s that I’m yet to read. That will be changing soon as I’m intrigued to know more about him and what makes him tick.
I enjoyed the audiobook but it maybe an easier read to get in reading with the different povs. But I must say an enjoyable read that would have been finished sooner if headaches hadn’t featured in the middle alongside an important career day. So, for anyone that’s read everything from Fiona what Saul based read should I tackle next?
June 13, 2025
I went into this one as I do most books, without reading the blurb. I expected it to be a psychological thriller, it was not. It more of a family drama.
Each of the sisters plays a different role within the family, they are so different to each other. There are so many secrets within this small family, some of which you have an inkling of and others that take you completely by surprise. The one thing you know when reading is that they are all going to come out in the end.
I did find the first half of the book somewhat slow, there were points of view from many different characters and at times I lost who was who and what they were adding to the story. What I found somewhat strange was that the epilogue tells us of a court case involving the sisters but it’s not until the mid point that we actually find of some of what actually occurred, which left me wondering where the story was actually going and as such I wasn’t particularly bothered by its direction.
After this reveal at the mid point the story becomes a court room trial. I’m trying my hardest to be spoiler free but I struggled to believe that the person who was charged would ever be charged in the real world, and I struggled to suspend my belief.
I struggled with Saul, the police officer. His story didn’t seem to fit within this book and at the end I was left asking numerous questions of his character.
It is an easy read, the points of view are well written and there are several twists. I read it really quickly.
Each of the sisters plays a different role within the family, they are so different to each other. There are so many secrets within this small family, some of which you have an inkling of and others that take you completely by surprise. The one thing you know when reading is that they are all going to come out in the end.
I did find the first half of the book somewhat slow, there were points of view from many different characters and at times I lost who was who and what they were adding to the story. What I found somewhat strange was that the epilogue tells us of a court case involving the sisters but it’s not until the mid point that we actually find of some of what actually occurred, which left me wondering where the story was actually going and as such I wasn’t particularly bothered by its direction.
After this reveal at the mid point the story becomes a court room trial. I’m trying my hardest to be spoiler free but I struggled to believe that the person who was charged would ever be charged in the real world, and I struggled to suspend my belief.
I struggled with Saul, the police officer. His story didn’t seem to fit within this book and at the end I was left asking numerous questions of his character.
It is an easy read, the points of view are well written and there are several twists. I read it really quickly.
June 18, 2025
Some of Us Are Liars begins quietly, its pace measured and its characters, particularly the Miller sisters, difficult to connect with at first. Yet, this emotional distance becomes one of the story’s cleverest devices; as the novel unfolds, the reasons behind their guardedness surface, revealing the weight of shared trauma, rivalry, and long-standing resentment.
Set during the wedding on a secluded island, the novel takes a dark turn when a devastating event shatters the festivities. From this moment, Fiona Cummins weaves a multi-layered psychological thriller that moves beyond plot twists and into the emotional heart of its characters. My initial hesitance gave way to immersion as the story deepened, and I found myself increasingly compelled by the way the narrative explored grief, guilt, and the fragile ties that bind a family.
At the centre of the investigation is Detective Saul Anguish who is a brooding, complex figure whose personal turmoil lends him a rare sensitivity. His pursuit of the truth is less about evidence and more about emotional excavation. The criminal investigation becomes a lens through which each character’s secrets are examined, tested, and ultimately laid bare.
By the final chapters, the emotional and moral weight of the novel resonates well beyond the central mystery. This is a thriller for readers who value character-driven suspense, where the ‘whodunnit’ is deeply entangled with the question of why..
Set during the wedding on a secluded island, the novel takes a dark turn when a devastating event shatters the festivities. From this moment, Fiona Cummins weaves a multi-layered psychological thriller that moves beyond plot twists and into the emotional heart of its characters. My initial hesitance gave way to immersion as the story deepened, and I found myself increasingly compelled by the way the narrative explored grief, guilt, and the fragile ties that bind a family.
At the centre of the investigation is Detective Saul Anguish who is a brooding, complex figure whose personal turmoil lends him a rare sensitivity. His pursuit of the truth is less about evidence and more about emotional excavation. The criminal investigation becomes a lens through which each character’s secrets are examined, tested, and ultimately laid bare.
By the final chapters, the emotional and moral weight of the novel resonates well beyond the central mystery. This is a thriller for readers who value character-driven suspense, where the ‘whodunnit’ is deeply entangled with the question of why..
March 17, 2025
Celebrity Winter Kellaway hosts a party for her sister Jen, unaware that tragedy is about to occur which will rock their family to the core. Meanwhile detective Saul Anguish is called to investigate and long buried secrets come to light.
I love Fiona Cummins’ books and have read all the previous ones featuring Saul, therefore I needed to read this new one as soon as possible. This was another entertaining, well written story, however felt like much less of a thriller than her previous books, feeling much slower paced and reading more as a drama. This is no means a bad thing and was still multi layered and intense, it just took a while for the main events to get going.
The author is great at character development, creating intriguing personalities, and this is no exception. I feel that Saul was not as centre staged in this story and I would have liked to see more of him. The ending makes me think that hopefully another book will come out to tie up loose ends. This is definitely worth a read if you enjoy this author’s other books and are looking for an emotionally raw, dark family drama with secrets to discover. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
I love Fiona Cummins’ books and have read all the previous ones featuring Saul, therefore I needed to read this new one as soon as possible. This was another entertaining, well written story, however felt like much less of a thriller than her previous books, feeling much slower paced and reading more as a drama. This is no means a bad thing and was still multi layered and intense, it just took a while for the main events to get going.
The author is great at character development, creating intriguing personalities, and this is no exception. I feel that Saul was not as centre staged in this story and I would have liked to see more of him. The ending makes me think that hopefully another book will come out to tie up loose ends. This is definitely worth a read if you enjoy this author’s other books and are looking for an emotionally raw, dark family drama with secrets to discover. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
September 4, 2025
Fiona Cummins’ Some of Us Are Liars is a dark, gripping psychological thriller that keeps you questioning every character’s motives until the very last page. At the center of the story is a mysterious crime and a group of people connected by secrets, lies, and betrayals. As the narrative unfolds, the line between truth and deception blurs, and you’re never quite sure who can be trusted.
What makes this book compelling is Cummins’ ability to build tension through multiple perspectives. Each character is layered, flawed, and hiding something, which makes the twists feel both shocking and believable. The atmosphere is heavy with suspense, and the pacing keeps you turning pages quickly.
At times, the number of shifting lies and half truths can feel dizzying, but that’s also part of what makes the book work you’re drawn into the same uncertainty as the characters themselves. The ending ties things together in a way that is both satisfying and unsettling
What makes this book compelling is Cummins’ ability to build tension through multiple perspectives. Each character is layered, flawed, and hiding something, which makes the twists feel both shocking and believable. The atmosphere is heavy with suspense, and the pacing keeps you turning pages quickly.
At times, the number of shifting lies and half truths can feel dizzying, but that’s also part of what makes the book work you’re drawn into the same uncertainty as the characters themselves. The ending ties things together in a way that is both satisfying and unsettling
June 16, 2025
3.5 stars
This is a good family drama. I don’t think I’d describe it as a thriller as it was a bit of a slow burner for me.
The book centres around three sisters - Winter, Jen and Alyssa. They are all very different but were very close until the Jen’s wedding party.
When Alyssa is accused of manslaughter it breaks the family apart but when it gets to court, it’s clear there’s more shocks in store.
This is a good drama but not as gripping as the author’s previous books.
Thanks to Pan Macmillan for the opportunity to read this book.
This is a good family drama. I don’t think I’d describe it as a thriller as it was a bit of a slow burner for me.
The book centres around three sisters - Winter, Jen and Alyssa. They are all very different but were very close until the Jen’s wedding party.
When Alyssa is accused of manslaughter it breaks the family apart but when it gets to court, it’s clear there’s more shocks in store.
This is a good drama but not as gripping as the author’s previous books.
Thanks to Pan Macmillan for the opportunity to read this book.
July 3, 2025
3.75 / 5.0
I like the twist at the end, but overall this book was shrouded by the events of Jen Miller and the trial that we didn’t see as much of Saul as I would have hoped. Over than little tid-bits of Saul and his internal battles this book was less focused around him and more about a court case. The start has way too many names introduced and felt incredibly overwhelming, I really didn’t like the specific day and year as I tend to find that the minute you add the details it becomes harder to follow the plot since you’ve incorporated time elements. I found the subplot incredibly random at points (where it would just cut to that).
Overall it’s an ok book, disappointed that we were unable to see much of Saul. Overall I definitely am questioning whether I want to continue with this series purely due to how passive and downhill the series has become. Over than the twist at the end which I think people could see a mile away, the book has become quite random. Unfortunately I have to admit there are elements of the book which references previous instances in the book which isn’t rememberable. Maybe the interest in this series is slowly depreciating. It’s meh.
I like the twist at the end, but overall this book was shrouded by the events of Jen Miller and the trial that we didn’t see as much of Saul as I would have hoped. Over than little tid-bits of Saul and his internal battles this book was less focused around him and more about a court case. The start has way too many names introduced and felt incredibly overwhelming, I really didn’t like the specific day and year as I tend to find that the minute you add the details it becomes harder to follow the plot since you’ve incorporated time elements. I found the subplot incredibly random at points (where it would just cut to that).
Overall it’s an ok book, disappointed that we were unable to see much of Saul. Overall I definitely am questioning whether I want to continue with this series purely due to how passive and downhill the series has become. Over than the twist at the end which I think people could see a mile away, the book has become quite random. Unfortunately I have to admit there are elements of the book which references previous instances in the book which isn’t rememberable. Maybe the interest in this series is slowly depreciating. It’s meh.
February 14, 2025
4+ ⭐
New Cummins is always a reason to celebrate.
New Cummins with Saul is probably worth getting the wine out for 😁
So good to catch up with Saul, and to have a new mystery to get stuck into.
One in which Saul hovers around the perimeters of.
Three sisters, and their love, loyalty and how things fall when tragedy strikes.
There were some moving moments in this one for sure.
A very enjoyable read, that left me a bit "WHAT?????" at the end.
In a good way.
New Cummins is always a reason to celebrate.
New Cummins with Saul is probably worth getting the wine out for 😁
So good to catch up with Saul, and to have a new mystery to get stuck into.
One in which Saul hovers around the perimeters of.
Three sisters, and their love, loyalty and how things fall when tragedy strikes.
There were some moving moments in this one for sure.
A very enjoyable read, that left me a bit "WHAT?????" at the end.
In a good way.
March 12, 2025
Breathtaking.
Thanks to Net Galley for this advance copy.
Jen and her sisters have always been close, that is until tragedy strikes and secrets are revealed. This story is a powerful mix of family, fame, loss, secrets and tragedy. It’s truly excellent writing.
Saul & Blue are back again. I confess I don’t click with either character and I was struggling with Saul once again but as the story progressed and I realised what was happening I became intrigued and now can’t wait for the next instalment.
5 ⭐ read.
Thanks to Net Galley for this advance copy.
Jen and her sisters have always been close, that is until tragedy strikes and secrets are revealed. This story is a powerful mix of family, fame, loss, secrets and tragedy. It’s truly excellent writing.
Saul & Blue are back again. I confess I don’t click with either character and I was struggling with Saul once again but as the story progressed and I realised what was happening I became intrigued and now can’t wait for the next instalment.
5 ⭐ read.
November 18, 2025
A really good twist which caused me to audibly gasp. However I spent the first 3/4 of the book trying to work out and remember who all the characters were and their relations to each other which made me think the author could have done a better job at introducing them all to cement in my mind who they all were.
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