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You Lied First
Sara is about to spend a week in a villa with people she barely knows.
She’s been invited to join her daughter, Liv, her boyfriend and his parents on their holiday. She can’t say no. After what happened, she’ll jump at any chance to spend time with Liv.
She tries to be the perfect guest, and they seem like the perfect hosts. But something about the Forrest family isn’t right.
By the end of the trip, someone will be dead. Lies will bind the rest of them together. But who can lie the best?
She’s been invited to join her daughter, Liv, her boyfriend and his parents on their holiday. She can’t say no. After what happened, she’ll jump at any chance to spend time with Liv.
She tries to be the perfect guest, and they seem like the perfect hosts. But something about the Forrest family isn’t right.
By the end of the trip, someone will be dead. Lies will bind the rest of them together. But who can lie the best?
384 pages, Paperback
Published July 17, 2025
7 people are currently reading
294 people want to read
About the author
Annabel Kantaria
11 books159 followersAnnabel Kantaria is a British journalist who’s written prolifically for publications throughout the Middle East. She lives in Dubai with her husband and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
July 4, 2025
First time read from this author for me and also first time I have read a book set in Oman
Got to say loved the book being set there, the descriptions of sights and smells and feel of the Country and in particular Muscat with its souks and then onto the desert were incredible, as a guide to a Country knew little about it passed with flying colours
Onto the story itself and it was a psychological thriller full of drama and an element of ‘who, why, when and howdunit’ when a night camping in the vast Omani deserts takes a murderous turn
Characters were fab to read, I loved the dialogue between them and the ‘saying one thing, meaning another’ side to it, some were easy to like, some easy to love to hate but all played their parts brilliantly
A thoroughly enjoyable read from cover to cover with a pleasing twisty end
Now have to read the authors other books, arrrghh, joking, a great new author find....
Got to say loved the book being set there, the descriptions of sights and smells and feel of the Country and in particular Muscat with its souks and then onto the desert were incredible, as a guide to a Country knew little about it passed with flying colours
Onto the story itself and it was a psychological thriller full of drama and an element of ‘who, why, when and howdunit’ when a night camping in the vast Omani deserts takes a murderous turn
Characters were fab to read, I loved the dialogue between them and the ‘saying one thing, meaning another’ side to it, some were easy to like, some easy to love to hate but all played their parts brilliantly
A thoroughly enjoyable read from cover to cover with a pleasing twisty end
Now have to read the authors other books, arrrghh, joking, a great new author find....
November 3, 2025
A tangled web of lies and deception in this twisty destination thriller!
July 5, 2025
a really good read. shocked by end
August 4, 2025
Looking for an easy thriller book rec for holiday? Then you need to read you lied first by Annabelle Kantaria.
It’s about a young couple who go away on holiday with both sets of parents. It’s the first time these people are meeting they barely know each other. Halfway through the holiday someone dies leaving the rest of them bound together in guilt and lies.
This is a book you need to lay back and relax into. A family holiday gone extremely wrong. I was instantly drawn into the character dynamic, analysing each and everyone of that for their floors and trying to figure out what the hell happened.
Of course the plot got a little chaotic some would say a bit eye rolly as the story went on but I was here for all the red herrings and the drama. It gave everything that you would expect from a destination holiday thriller easy breezy reading with a casual bit of murder on the side.
So if you’re in the mood for a bit of family holiday murder, then this is the book you need to pack into your beach bag this summer.
Free ecopy in exchange for an honest review 🖤
It’s about a young couple who go away on holiday with both sets of parents. It’s the first time these people are meeting they barely know each other. Halfway through the holiday someone dies leaving the rest of them bound together in guilt and lies.
This is a book you need to lay back and relax into. A family holiday gone extremely wrong. I was instantly drawn into the character dynamic, analysing each and everyone of that for their floors and trying to figure out what the hell happened.
Of course the plot got a little chaotic some would say a bit eye rolly as the story went on but I was here for all the red herrings and the drama. It gave everything that you would expect from a destination holiday thriller easy breezy reading with a casual bit of murder on the side.
So if you’re in the mood for a bit of family holiday murder, then this is the book you need to pack into your beach bag this summer.
Free ecopy in exchange for an honest review 🖤
June 28, 2025
Can you really trust anyone? In You Lied First, you definitely can't.
The characters were all unreliable, so I really was questioning each of their motives. Let's face it they all had reasons to carry out the deed.
Oman couldn't have been described better. It was truly atmospheric, I feel like I've been there now. The descriptions really lured me in, and I was well and truly immersed in the story. Even though the second half of the book is set in the UK, the pacing didn't flag at all. If anything, it became more tense, especially as the stakes were rising each day.
A fantastic fast paced thriller to sink your teeth into this summer. It's very entertaining with some unexpected plot twists.
Thank you to InstaBookTours for having me on the tour and to the author and publisher for a copy of the book.
The characters were all unreliable, so I really was questioning each of their motives. Let's face it they all had reasons to carry out the deed.
Oman couldn't have been described better. It was truly atmospheric, I feel like I've been there now. The descriptions really lured me in, and I was well and truly immersed in the story. Even though the second half of the book is set in the UK, the pacing didn't flag at all. If anything, it became more tense, especially as the stakes were rising each day.
A fantastic fast paced thriller to sink your teeth into this summer. It's very entertaining with some unexpected plot twists.
Thank you to InstaBookTours for having me on the tour and to the author and publisher for a copy of the book.
July 11, 2025
Annabel Kantaria has earned a spot on my list of favorite authors! Her writing is addictive.
In this captivating psychological thriller, Sara's holiday in Oman with her daughter and her boyfriend's family takes a dark turn.
The descriptive writing is exceptional, transporting me to Oman, and the drama is non-stop.
The characters are well-developed, and the story keeps you guessing. The twist? Completely unexpected!
Looking for a gripping thriller? This one's a must-read!
In this captivating psychological thriller, Sara's holiday in Oman with her daughter and her boyfriend's family takes a dark turn.
The descriptive writing is exceptional, transporting me to Oman, and the drama is non-stop.
The characters are well-developed, and the story keeps you guessing. The twist? Completely unexpected!
Looking for a gripping thriller? This one's a must-read!
August 16, 2025
i’d give this book 6 stars if i could
i finished it in a day, was really upset every time i had to put it down to eat. the storytelling? fantastic. the plot? magnificent. my heart? captured
this is absolutely going to be my new hyper-fixation-recommend-to-everyone book
please read it
i finished it in a day, was really upset every time i had to put it down to eat. the storytelling? fantastic. the plot? magnificent. my heart? captured
this is absolutely going to be my new hyper-fixation-recommend-to-everyone book
please read it
January 21, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
I love how beautiful author has described Oman and its beauty in this. I truly enjoyed reading this as I was in need of a thriller and the twists and turns were so unexpected. It was different than the normal setting and for once I felt the sense of familiarity with the places and the context. My main issue the reason for everything that went down. I really wanted a strong enough reason and for that I was disappointed. Yes the killer did surprised me! Fast paced and a definite page turner!
I love how beautiful author has described Oman and its beauty in this. I truly enjoyed reading this as I was in need of a thriller and the twists and turns were so unexpected. It was different than the normal setting and for once I felt the sense of familiarity with the places and the context. My main issue the reason for everything that went down. I really wanted a strong enough reason and for that I was disappointed. Yes the killer did surprised me! Fast paced and a definite page turner!
February 6, 2026
A very layered thriller and highly satisfying. I really enjoyed reading it!
November 25, 2025
Thriller set in OMAN and Cheltenham
Margot and Guy Forrest used to live in Oman as expats. They have now re-settled in England, in Charlton Kings just outside Cheltenham. Their son Flynn is of school age and dating Liv. Liv and her mother Sara are invited to join the Forrests on a short trip to Oman, just before New Year. The Forrests left Oman originally apparently under a cloud.
Everyone arrives at the rental villa which is in the old compound in which the Forrests used to live, and one of their neighbours, Celine, a gregarious woman in her early 30s, is delighted to espy them and smartly inveigles herself into the group, much to the annoyance of Margot. Guy, however, seems more than happy to spend time in her company (there is a hint that their friendship over the years has been more than platonic). The days pass in glorious sunshine, with outings to the souks and markets, culminating in an overnight trip to the desert. From that point, everything unravels for the five holidaymakers and the party hightails it back to England. The three adults pledge an omertà – what happened in Oman, stays in Oman.
The story is told alternately, Margot in the third person, Sara in the first, and as the story evolves, various backstories come to the fore. None of the characters is particularly likeable and some appear more venal than others. Margot stews in her unhappy marriage, finessing her passive-aggressive retorts; Guy likes to exert control, particularly over his wife and Sara, a counsellor by training, goes above and beyond to ensure her daughter (a sensitive young soul) is emotionally untroubled by life.
I really enjoyed this #destinationthriller, it bowled along in fairly short chapters with a good sense of tension and adroit switchbacks, moving towards a wry and satisfying ending. It is well written with clarity and style, and it certainly kept me turning the pages.
So often a far flung setting feels like a licence to create an exciting but crackpot storyline, where everything including the kitchen sink is shovelled in to create tension. I recently read a novel in this genre where the characters of the book were lost in the jungle, they had just discovered a body riddled with maggots, and then one of the characters slopes off into the jungle to carry out a pregnancy test (see what I mean?). I am so pleased to see that You Lied First did not fall into the common trap and the author maintained her integrity and just got on with telling a good story.
Margot and Guy Forrest used to live in Oman as expats. They have now re-settled in England, in Charlton Kings just outside Cheltenham. Their son Flynn is of school age and dating Liv. Liv and her mother Sara are invited to join the Forrests on a short trip to Oman, just before New Year. The Forrests left Oman originally apparently under a cloud.
Everyone arrives at the rental villa which is in the old compound in which the Forrests used to live, and one of their neighbours, Celine, a gregarious woman in her early 30s, is delighted to espy them and smartly inveigles herself into the group, much to the annoyance of Margot. Guy, however, seems more than happy to spend time in her company (there is a hint that their friendship over the years has been more than platonic). The days pass in glorious sunshine, with outings to the souks and markets, culminating in an overnight trip to the desert. From that point, everything unravels for the five holidaymakers and the party hightails it back to England. The three adults pledge an omertà – what happened in Oman, stays in Oman.
The story is told alternately, Margot in the third person, Sara in the first, and as the story evolves, various backstories come to the fore. None of the characters is particularly likeable and some appear more venal than others. Margot stews in her unhappy marriage, finessing her passive-aggressive retorts; Guy likes to exert control, particularly over his wife and Sara, a counsellor by training, goes above and beyond to ensure her daughter (a sensitive young soul) is emotionally untroubled by life.
I really enjoyed this #destinationthriller, it bowled along in fairly short chapters with a good sense of tension and adroit switchbacks, moving towards a wry and satisfying ending. It is well written with clarity and style, and it certainly kept me turning the pages.
So often a far flung setting feels like a licence to create an exciting but crackpot storyline, where everything including the kitchen sink is shovelled in to create tension. I recently read a novel in this genre where the characters of the book were lost in the jungle, they had just discovered a body riddled with maggots, and then one of the characters slopes off into the jungle to carry out a pregnancy test (see what I mean?). I am so pleased to see that You Lied First did not fall into the common trap and the author maintained her integrity and just got on with telling a good story.
July 15, 2025
🔍 Review: You Lied First by Annabel Kantaria
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
Publication Date: 17.07.25
You Lied First is a gripping psychological thriller that explores just how quickly trust can unravel — and how dangerous secrets can become when the wrong person uncovers them. 🕵️♀️💣
The story follows Cleo, who seems to have it all — a loving husband, a beautiful home, a curated life. But when a woman named Rachel enters the picture, claiming to know something about Cleo’s past, everything begins to spiral.
Annabel Kantaria masterfully layers suspense and emotional tension, keeping you questioning every character’s motives. The shifting perspectives and slowly revealed backstories make this a compulsive read, perfect for fans of domestic thrillers like The Couple Next Door or The Girl on the Train.
✨ What I loved:
– A fast-paced, well-plotted thriller
– Unreliable narrators that keep you guessing
– Sharp commentary on appearance vs reality
– A final twist that lands with impact
If you enjoy thrillers with toxic friendships, past secrets, and that creeping sense of dread — this one deserves a spot on your radar.
Thank you to NetGalley and HQ for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
#YouLiedFirst #AnnabelKantaria #NetGalleyReview #PsychologicalThriller #BookReview #DomesticSuspense #UnputdownableReads #BookRecommendation #UpcomingReads
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
Publication Date: 17.07.25
You Lied First is a gripping psychological thriller that explores just how quickly trust can unravel — and how dangerous secrets can become when the wrong person uncovers them. 🕵️♀️💣
The story follows Cleo, who seems to have it all — a loving husband, a beautiful home, a curated life. But when a woman named Rachel enters the picture, claiming to know something about Cleo’s past, everything begins to spiral.
Annabel Kantaria masterfully layers suspense and emotional tension, keeping you questioning every character’s motives. The shifting perspectives and slowly revealed backstories make this a compulsive read, perfect for fans of domestic thrillers like The Couple Next Door or The Girl on the Train.
✨ What I loved:
– A fast-paced, well-plotted thriller
– Unreliable narrators that keep you guessing
– Sharp commentary on appearance vs reality
– A final twist that lands with impact
If you enjoy thrillers with toxic friendships, past secrets, and that creeping sense of dread — this one deserves a spot on your radar.
Thank you to NetGalley and HQ for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
#YouLiedFirst #AnnabelKantaria #NetGalleyReview #PsychologicalThriller #BookReview #DomesticSuspense #UnputdownableReads #BookRecommendation #UpcomingReads
August 17, 2025
You Lied First by Annabel Kantaria is an, unsettling psychological thriller. Two families spend a week away together, their only connection being the friendship between their two children.
The story unfolds through alternating points of view, with each chapter offering a fresh perspective. This narrative style adds depth and complexity, allowing me to get to know the characters’ personalities, relationships, and motives. It also gives the reader a unique sense of intimacy, as though we are privy to private thoughts that others in the story cannot hear.
The pacing begins slowly, giving just enough time to settle into the setting and get to know the characters. About a third of the way through, however, the tone shifts—long-kept secrets begin to unravel. Kantaria handles these reveals with a masterful, surreptitious touch; the tension creeps in quietly, almost without notice, until you suddenly realise you’ve been caught in a web of lies and suspicion.
You Lied First is an elegantly written, slow-burn thriller that rewards patience with a suspenseful, satisfying payoff. Kantaria’s skill in building atmosphere and weaving multiple perspectives makes for a layered, immersive read. Perfect for fans of domestic thrillers where appearances are deceiving, this is a story that lingers in the mind long after the final page.
The story unfolds through alternating points of view, with each chapter offering a fresh perspective. This narrative style adds depth and complexity, allowing me to get to know the characters’ personalities, relationships, and motives. It also gives the reader a unique sense of intimacy, as though we are privy to private thoughts that others in the story cannot hear.
The pacing begins slowly, giving just enough time to settle into the setting and get to know the characters. About a third of the way through, however, the tone shifts—long-kept secrets begin to unravel. Kantaria handles these reveals with a masterful, surreptitious touch; the tension creeps in quietly, almost without notice, until you suddenly realise you’ve been caught in a web of lies and suspicion.
You Lied First is an elegantly written, slow-burn thriller that rewards patience with a suspenseful, satisfying payoff. Kantaria’s skill in building atmosphere and weaving multiple perspectives makes for a layered, immersive read. Perfect for fans of domestic thrillers where appearances are deceiving, this is a story that lingers in the mind long after the final page.
July 10, 2025
You Lied First is a twisty read which I had no idea where it was going until two thirds of the way in.
Sara has been invited to join her seventeen year old daughter and her boyfriend and his family for a holiday before Christmas. Sara needs to rebuild bridges with her daughter so agrees. Margot and Guy Forrest are taking them to Oman and to where they used to live before they had to come back to England. Sara lazes by the pool and gets to know the next door neighbour who is a school teacher. They all decide to take a trip to the dessert but one doesn’t come back.
This was a book I loved from the first page. The characters were well developed and were all very different making this a good read. The start was a little slow but I enjoyed the build up and getting to know them. The book was a great destination read that described Oman well. The twists were decent and kept me on my toes. The ending was perfect for me.
I would like to thank NetGalley and HQ for this ARC I received in exchange for an honest review.
Sara has been invited to join her seventeen year old daughter and her boyfriend and his family for a holiday before Christmas. Sara needs to rebuild bridges with her daughter so agrees. Margot and Guy Forrest are taking them to Oman and to where they used to live before they had to come back to England. Sara lazes by the pool and gets to know the next door neighbour who is a school teacher. They all decide to take a trip to the dessert but one doesn’t come back.
This was a book I loved from the first page. The characters were well developed and were all very different making this a good read. The start was a little slow but I enjoyed the build up and getting to know them. The book was a great destination read that described Oman well. The twists were decent and kept me on my toes. The ending was perfect for me.
I would like to thank NetGalley and HQ for this ARC I received in exchange for an honest review.
April 20, 2025
This was my first book by this author, but the premise really caught my attention. I immediately clicked with the writing style, so I knew within a few chapters that I would really enjoy this one.
I'm a sucker for destination thrillers, and the descriptions of Oman were fantastic, I was fully immersed in the story and almost felt like I was there myself. The second half of the book takes places back in England, and I was concerned that the pacing would flag at this point, but I needn't have worried, the story continued to hold my attention, especially the last 20% or so which I couldn't read fast enough! The ending was brilliant.
The characters were multi-faceted and felt like real people. The dialogue felt natural, which is a really hard thing to get right but can really make or break a book for me.
Overall I would 100% recommend this book, and I will definitely be reading more by the author.
I'm a sucker for destination thrillers, and the descriptions of Oman were fantastic, I was fully immersed in the story and almost felt like I was there myself. The second half of the book takes places back in England, and I was concerned that the pacing would flag at this point, but I needn't have worried, the story continued to hold my attention, especially the last 20% or so which I couldn't read fast enough! The ending was brilliant.
The characters were multi-faceted and felt like real people. The dialogue felt natural, which is a really hard thing to get right but can really make or break a book for me.
Overall I would 100% recommend this book, and I will definitely be reading more by the author.
July 17, 2025
Sara is about to go on holiday with some people she barley knows. Along with her daughter Liv, she is travelling to Oman with Liv’s boyfriend and his parents. While trying to be the perfect guest she realises something isn’t quite right with the family. Will the holiday end in disaster?
This was my first book by this author but I enjoy a destination thriller and was drawn to the cover so I was interested in reading. I loved the setting as this isn’t an area I have explored much before, I think the author did a great job in building an atmosphere. The characters were interesting, however not overly likeable and I didn’t really connect to them. I found parts of the story a bit predictable and slow paced at times. Even though this wasn’t a favourite of mine, it was still a solid, well written thriller and would make a great beach read. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
This was my first book by this author but I enjoy a destination thriller and was drawn to the cover so I was interested in reading. I loved the setting as this isn’t an area I have explored much before, I think the author did a great job in building an atmosphere. The characters were interesting, however not overly likeable and I didn’t really connect to them. I found parts of the story a bit predictable and slow paced at times. Even though this wasn’t a favourite of mine, it was still a solid, well written thriller and would make a great beach read. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
July 6, 2025
The gritty premise and gorgeous cover immediately drew me to pick this up. Plus, who doesn't love a destination thriller! Told in a dual POV, you follow Sara who is invited on holiday over the christmas period with her Daughter's boyfriend's family, and Margot who is worried that the demon's of the past might resurface. You become aware very early on that most of the characters are unreliable and highly unlikeable. Guy was a walking red flag from the off and Sara, well she was just plain annoying. The first half of the book is set in Oman, and, i must say, the setting description is excellently done. It really enhances the ability to imagine you are a fly on the wall here. The latter half is told back in the UK where the events from the group's holiday start to unravel. On a whole, it's an enjoyable read, and at times, it is quite gripping. I finished it in a day. However, the pacing, at times, was slow, and I just couldn't accept the reasons given for some of the things that happened, which kind of ruined the ending for me.
July 17, 2025
When Sara gets invited on holiday with her daughter's boyfriends family, she is a little nervous, not knowing his family well but Sara will do anything to make her daughter happy. Things seem to go well, they all make time for each other and they have a good laugh. But when tragedy strikes, is this family really who they say they are. And then things start to unravel and Sara wishes she never came on this holiday. This was such a good thriller read, quick paced, dark in places and full of suspense. I guessed half way what the ending would be but it was still good, there are a few twists along the way and it had me on the edge of my seat on anticipation for the ending. It was so good and I really enjoyed it. I will be looking out for Annabel's books in the future.
October 15, 2025
📚You Lied First
✍️Annabel Kantaria
3⭐️
Sara and her daughter Liv join Liv’s boyfriend’s family on holiday in Oman, but while there a family friend dies so Sara and Margot (the boyfriends mother) decide to bury the body in the desert to stop the finger of blame point at them. Sensible choice. This was well written, the descriptions of Oman and the culture and the food were vivid, however the characters were unfortunately not so well written. They were all somewhat two-dimensional and not overly pleasant; they did blur into one somewhat. Some sections went on a bit too long and could have been cut down without impacting the plot but I enjoyed the author’s writing style so it was still a pleasant read.
✍️Annabel Kantaria
3⭐️
Sara and her daughter Liv join Liv’s boyfriend’s family on holiday in Oman, but while there a family friend dies so Sara and Margot (the boyfriends mother) decide to bury the body in the desert to stop the finger of blame point at them. Sensible choice. This was well written, the descriptions of Oman and the culture and the food were vivid, however the characters were unfortunately not so well written. They were all somewhat two-dimensional and not overly pleasant; they did blur into one somewhat. Some sections went on a bit too long and could have been cut down without impacting the plot but I enjoyed the author’s writing style so it was still a pleasant read.
June 4, 2025
An atmospheric thriller featuring a set of unreliable characters, this story does an excellent job of making you - and the protagonist - question just about everyone's motives!
Invited to spend time on holiday with her daughter Liv, whom she is desperate to get close to, and the family of Liv's boyfriend, is determined to get along with everyone and to make them like her.
But it isn't going to be that easy. Not least, when none of them are who they appear to be...
An entertaining thriller with plenty of twists, this gets 3.5 stars. Worth checking out.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Invited to spend time on holiday with her daughter Liv, whom she is desperate to get close to, and the family of Liv's boyfriend, is determined to get along with everyone and to make them like her.
But it isn't going to be that easy. Not least, when none of them are who they appear to be...
An entertaining thriller with plenty of twists, this gets 3.5 stars. Worth checking out.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
July 9, 2025
"Two families, one killer holiday"
From the start of this book, you get a good insight into the characters and the dynamics between them. This doesn't stall at all, and the tension only builds.
You Lied First is a gripping novel and is well-paced, with the tensions constantly rising and the plot getting thicker.
The setting, the atmosphere and the storyline gel well and are so well written that everything feels authentic and helps you get completely emersed in the story.
This was very close to being a 5 star read for me, and is a destination thriller to pick up for your summer holidays, for sure
From the start of this book, you get a good insight into the characters and the dynamics between them. This doesn't stall at all, and the tension only builds.
You Lied First is a gripping novel and is well-paced, with the tensions constantly rising and the plot getting thicker.
The setting, the atmosphere and the storyline gel well and are so well written that everything feels authentic and helps you get completely emersed in the story.
This was very close to being a 5 star read for me, and is a destination thriller to pick up for your summer holidays, for sure
July 15, 2025
A psychological thriller, where no one knows who to trust, who has secrets, and who is lying.
Sara and her 17 year old daughter Liv are invited to join Liv's boyfriend and his family on a holiday to Oman. When a trip to the desert takes a very serious turn, a huge web of lies is created. Can the group agree on a story and stick to it?
I found the story quite predictable and a bit long, but it was easy to read. I really liked the descriptions of Oman and the details about life as an ex pat, however I really did not like any of the characters enough to care what the outcome of the story was! Definitely packed with characters the reader loves to hate.
Sara and her 17 year old daughter Liv are invited to join Liv's boyfriend and his family on a holiday to Oman. When a trip to the desert takes a very serious turn, a huge web of lies is created. Can the group agree on a story and stick to it?
I found the story quite predictable and a bit long, but it was easy to read. I really liked the descriptions of Oman and the details about life as an ex pat, however I really did not like any of the characters enough to care what the outcome of the story was! Definitely packed with characters the reader loves to hate.
July 19, 2025
Sara and her daughter Liv are heading to Muscat for a week with Liv’s boyfriend Flynn, and his parents. They are worlds apart. Flynn and his family are rich and used to live out in Oman whereas Sara leads a more modest life and is hoping this week will allow her to build bridges with her daughter. Arriving in muscat in the lap of luxury, things seem to be going well until the trip takes a dark turn. This book is deliciously atmospheric, it’s a dark thriller and with the addition of some great twists, it will keep you guessing. Thank you to NetGalley, HQ and the author for the chance to review.
January 30, 2026
It’s always nice to read a book written by a fellow expat, and this one really captured the spirit of that experience.
The story follows Sara, who joins her daughter Liv, Liv’s boyfriend, and his family for a week in a villa in Oman. What starts as an awkward attempt to reconnect soon turns much darker. By the end of the trip, someone is dead, and the lies holding everyone together begin to unravel.
The descriptions of Oman were a real highlight, I truly felt transported, from the heat of the desert to the calm of the sea. The writing is smooth and engaging, making this an easy, enjoyable thriller that’s hard to put down.
The story follows Sara, who joins her daughter Liv, Liv’s boyfriend, and his family for a week in a villa in Oman. What starts as an awkward attempt to reconnect soon turns much darker. By the end of the trip, someone is dead, and the lies holding everyone together begin to unravel.
The descriptions of Oman were a real highlight, I truly felt transported, from the heat of the desert to the calm of the sea. The writing is smooth and engaging, making this an easy, enjoyable thriller that’s hard to put down.
July 13, 2025
This is such a fantastic, twisty destination thriller. I loved the characters setting from the begining, giving a glimpse of the characters we would be getting to know. The characters were all interesting (or annoying in Sara’s case 😬) and Guy deserves the reddest of red flags.
The descriptions of Oman were stunning and the dual destinations worked so well together, I loved seeing everything unravel back home.
This is really hard to review, with risking spoilers, but this deserves to be on your TBR!
The descriptions of Oman were stunning and the dual destinations worked so well together, I loved seeing everything unravel back home.
This is really hard to review, with risking spoilers, but this deserves to be on your TBR!
July 14, 2025
This is a great thriller.
Sara is invited on holiday with her daughter’s boyfriend’s family, and is impressed with the lovely villa in Oman.
Margot and Guy used to live here until something happened and they had to move back to the UK.
Sara has drifted apart from her daughter Liv and wants this holiday to help them improve their relationship.
Things start off ok but then after a day in the desert something terrible happens.
I really liked how this story came together and there’s a few twists that I didn’t see coming.
Thanks to HQ for the opportunity to read this book.
Sara is invited on holiday with her daughter’s boyfriend’s family, and is impressed with the lovely villa in Oman.
Margot and Guy used to live here until something happened and they had to move back to the UK.
Sara has drifted apart from her daughter Liv and wants this holiday to help them improve their relationship.
Things start off ok but then after a day in the desert something terrible happens.
I really liked how this story came together and there’s a few twists that I didn’t see coming.
Thanks to HQ for the opportunity to read this book.
May 26, 2025
The description of Oman in this book took me back there. What writing!
Sara has agreed to go on holiday with her daughter’s boyfriend’s parents. There aren’t a wealth to like about anyone in this book but there are plenty of bad decisions.
This is the book to read somewhere hot, wherever that is. You’d be able to feel the fog of heat and horrible decision.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for this arc in return for an honest review.
Sara has agreed to go on holiday with her daughter’s boyfriend’s parents. There aren’t a wealth to like about anyone in this book but there are plenty of bad decisions.
This is the book to read somewhere hot, wherever that is. You’d be able to feel the fog of heat and horrible decision.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for this arc in return for an honest review.
September 25, 2025
You Lied First is such a beautifully written and easy read — a real page-turner. Annabel brings Oman and expat life in the Middle East to life with vivid, descriptive writing that feels fresh and different. Our book club loved discussing it and we’ve already recommended it to lots of friends.
Looking forward to your next book, Annabel!
Looking forward to your next book, Annabel!
September 28, 2025
I have read every book by this author and as with each and every one I could not put it down. Set in Oman where I lived for a few years, I could really picture the setting so well.
The characters were so perfect! Every time I thought I will just read another chapter and leave it for another day turned into 3-4 chapters.
Another excellent read from Annabel. Superb!
The characters were so perfect! Every time I thought I will just read another chapter and leave it for another day turned into 3-4 chapters.
Another excellent read from Annabel. Superb!
November 17, 2025
It was good but also I had it figured out right off the bat. This was a slow burn and when I got to the “climax” it was a slow ending… 6/10. Like I said it was good but I won’t be recommending it to my friends. It was just slow and super predictable… probably would have been better if another person committed the crime and it didn’t take ages to get to that point.
November 3, 2025
A easy thriller paced read. Two families go on vacation in Oman. One morning while camping in the desert one is found dead in the morning. The panic that sets in as they attempt to figure out what to do was a little hilarious even as they try to figure out their stories and stick to it.
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