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Two Truths and a Lie: A Thriller
In a taut, haunting follow-up to No Lie Lasts Forever, reporter Flynn Martin gets ensnared in a copycat killer’s game where winning means solving a crime—and losing could cost her everything.
Lambasted for a tragedy caught live on camera, then lauded for her help capturing the elusive PDQ, a serial killer, Flynn Martin’s career has reached new heights. But now, the TV journalist and mother has much further to fall. And someone wants to push her over the edge.
PDQ is behind bars, for life and then some, but someone on the outside has picked up the killer’s mantle. Flynn is neck-deep in an investigation when the copycat emerges, targeting her sources and delivering cryptic messages. It’s clear that Flynn’s stories are getting deadlier. This one proves no exception.
A family of four has gone missing, leaving behind ties to New Hope Church more tangled than they appear. The dangerous web rivals the threat in Flynn’s personal life. And it’s up to her to unravel each knot.
Scandal. Conspiracy. Murder. Flynn hardly knows where to begin—and if her stalker has their way, she might not live to see the end.
Lambasted for a tragedy caught live on camera, then lauded for her help capturing the elusive PDQ, a serial killer, Flynn Martin’s career has reached new heights. But now, the TV journalist and mother has much further to fall. And someone wants to push her over the edge.
PDQ is behind bars, for life and then some, but someone on the outside has picked up the killer’s mantle. Flynn is neck-deep in an investigation when the copycat emerges, targeting her sources and delivering cryptic messages. It’s clear that Flynn’s stories are getting deadlier. This one proves no exception.
A family of four has gone missing, leaving behind ties to New Hope Church more tangled than they appear. The dangerous web rivals the threat in Flynn’s personal life. And it’s up to her to unravel each knot.
Scandal. Conspiracy. Murder. Flynn hardly knows where to begin—and if her stalker has their way, she might not live to see the end.
459 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 7, 2026
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April 13, 2026
Plenty of lies, and no real conclusion.
News reporter Flynn Martin's career is in a strange place - both criticized and celebrated after her very public involvement in capturing the infamous PDQ killer (which she did in the first book of this series, No Lie Lasts Forever ). But while PDQ is firmly behind bars, someone on the outside has picked up where he left off. As Flynn digs into a new story involving a missing family and the shadowy New Hope Church, the case quickly turns personal. Her sources start becoming targets, cryptic messages pile up, and it becomes clear that this isn't just another investigation - someone is playing a very deliberate (and very dangerous) game with her at the center.
In Two Truths and a Lie, Mark Stevens brings back Flynn Martin for a high-stakes follow-up that blends media scrutiny, serial killer fallout, and a copycat threat that hits far too close to home. Unfortunately for me, while I did realize this was the second book in a series when I picked it up, I had hoped it would work better as a standalone than it ended up doing. There are many references to the first installment, particularly surrounding the PDQ case and Flynn's past, and while you can in theory follow the plot without it, it feels like you're missing some important context. I kept getting the sense that I was supposed to already have a stronger grasp on these characters - and their history - than I actually did, as the plot feels like a seamless continuation of the first book.
That said, I really liked the premise here. A reporter instead of a detective? Always a win. Flynn's plucky, persistent approach to chasing a story - especially when it puts her outside the usual law enforcement framework - adds a fresh angle to an otherwise familiar thriller setup. There's a lot of momentum, and the stakes feel genuinely high as the copycat killer closes in.
Unfortunately… Flynn herself often made this a much more frustrating read than it needed to be.
I wanted to root for her. I really did. But she makes so, so many baffling decisions that seem designed purely to move the plot along rather than make any actual sense. Case in point: spending far too much time visiting a serial killer in prison who very obviously cannot be the culprit - and then, somehow, not telling anyone about it. Not once, but twice. It's the kind of choice that doesn't feel bold or smart in an interesting way, just unnecessarily illogical.
And that pattern continues throughout the book. Instead of building tension, a lot of these moments just feel like time-wasting detours that undercut the otherwise solid premise.
Still, it is a compelling read. The pacing keeps things moving, the central mystery is engaging, and I found myself wanting to see how everything would come together.
But then there was the ending. Without getting into spoilers, it is very much a cliffhanger, and while many of the answers are technically there, the lack of real resolution makes it feel less like a deliberate narrative choice and more like a cheap trick to keep the series going. After everything Flynn (and the reader) goes through, it's a bit of a frustrating note to end on.
Overall, Two Truths and a Lie has a strong premise, an engaging central mystery, and a refreshing non-detective lead, but it's weighed down by one too many threads and an ending that doesn't quite earn its lack of closure. A solid installment that I might have appreciated more had I started at the beginning.
Many thanks to Thomas & Mercer for providing me with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
"Two Truths and a Lie" was released on April 7, 2026, and is available now.
News reporter Flynn Martin's career is in a strange place - both criticized and celebrated after her very public involvement in capturing the infamous PDQ killer (which she did in the first book of this series, No Lie Lasts Forever ). But while PDQ is firmly behind bars, someone on the outside has picked up where he left off. As Flynn digs into a new story involving a missing family and the shadowy New Hope Church, the case quickly turns personal. Her sources start becoming targets, cryptic messages pile up, and it becomes clear that this isn't just another investigation - someone is playing a very deliberate (and very dangerous) game with her at the center.
In Two Truths and a Lie, Mark Stevens brings back Flynn Martin for a high-stakes follow-up that blends media scrutiny, serial killer fallout, and a copycat threat that hits far too close to home. Unfortunately for me, while I did realize this was the second book in a series when I picked it up, I had hoped it would work better as a standalone than it ended up doing. There are many references to the first installment, particularly surrounding the PDQ case and Flynn's past, and while you can in theory follow the plot without it, it feels like you're missing some important context. I kept getting the sense that I was supposed to already have a stronger grasp on these characters - and their history - than I actually did, as the plot feels like a seamless continuation of the first book.
That said, I really liked the premise here. A reporter instead of a detective? Always a win. Flynn's plucky, persistent approach to chasing a story - especially when it puts her outside the usual law enforcement framework - adds a fresh angle to an otherwise familiar thriller setup. There's a lot of momentum, and the stakes feel genuinely high as the copycat killer closes in.
Unfortunately… Flynn herself often made this a much more frustrating read than it needed to be.
I wanted to root for her. I really did. But she makes so, so many baffling decisions that seem designed purely to move the plot along rather than make any actual sense. Case in point: spending far too much time visiting a serial killer in prison who very obviously cannot be the culprit - and then, somehow, not telling anyone about it. Not once, but twice. It's the kind of choice that doesn't feel bold or smart in an interesting way, just unnecessarily illogical.
And that pattern continues throughout the book. Instead of building tension, a lot of these moments just feel like time-wasting detours that undercut the otherwise solid premise.
Still, it is a compelling read. The pacing keeps things moving, the central mystery is engaging, and I found myself wanting to see how everything would come together.
But then there was the ending. Without getting into spoilers, it is very much a cliffhanger, and while many of the answers are technically there, the lack of real resolution makes it feel less like a deliberate narrative choice and more like a cheap trick to keep the series going. After everything Flynn (and the reader) goes through, it's a bit of a frustrating note to end on.
Overall, Two Truths and a Lie has a strong premise, an engaging central mystery, and a refreshing non-detective lead, but it's weighed down by one too many threads and an ending that doesn't quite earn its lack of closure. A solid installment that I might have appreciated more had I started at the beginning.
Many thanks to Thomas & Mercer for providing me with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
"Two Truths and a Lie" was released on April 7, 2026, and is available now.
April 13, 2026
4.5
I was a little confused at first since I hadn’t read book one, but the author gives enough background to help catch you up. Once the story picked up, I really enjoyed it. Overall, a good thriller with solid suspense.
I was a little confused at first since I hadn’t read book one, but the author gives enough background to help catch you up. Once the story picked up, I really enjoyed it. Overall, a good thriller with solid suspense.
April 24, 2026
3.5 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum https://bibliosanctum.com/2026/04/19/...
After having such an enjoyable time with Mark Stevens’s No Lie Lasts Forever, I went into the sequel Two Truths and a Lie expecting more of that same sharp cat-and-mouse tension. The good news is, I still received an engaging thriller. That said, this one didn’t quite hit me in the same way as the first book. While it’s still a great follow-up with plenty to like, I just think it was missing some of what made the original feel so tight and suspenseful.
The story picks up with the return of series protagonist Flynn Martin, a Denver journalist who finds herself back in the spotlight following her role in capturing the PDQ Killer, the man who terrorized the city fifteen years ago by murdering three women. At least this time, she’s making headlines for the right reasons, earning back the trust of her employer. But that high doesn’t last long. When a family of four disappears under suspicious circumstances, Flynn seizes the opportunity to prove herself, digging into what at first looks like a tragic but routine missing persons case. However, it quickly becomes clear that there’s far more to the story.
At the same time, Flynn begins receiving unsettling messages, written in a way that immediately brings the PDQ Killer to mind, even though he’s supposedly behind bars and no longer a threat. Or is he? The possibility that she’s being watched again leaves her fearing for her family’s safety, and that personal threat adds a new sense of urgency to the investigation. As Flynn follows the trail, the case begins to branch in multiple directions, pulling in connections to a powerful local church, whispers of corruption, and a web of secrets that may all be connected.
Much like the first book, what continues to work really well here is Stevens’ writing style. The prose is clean and direct, built for speed. It makes for another easy, bingeable read. The newsroom angle remains a strong hook, and I like how the case plays out like a police procedural while approaching it from a different perspective through Flynn’s role. Not being in law enforcement does limit her in some ways, but at the same time, her position as a journalist opens doors and gives her access to sources she might not otherwise reach. The high-octane, punchy pacing highlights the need for instant action as Flynn chases downs leads and puts the pieces of the puzzle together, giving the story a sharp edge.
That said, the structure of this sequel feels noticeably busier. There is simply so much happening all at once, it’s not always clear which thread is the main one, so the end result feels a bit scattered. Compared to the first book, where both the central conflict and the villain were sharply defined, this one comes across as more of a jumble. While it does keep things unpredictable and opens up a wider web of possibilities, this approach also ends up diluting some of the tension, especially when the antagonist and the story’s direction feel less focused.
Flynn herself remains a compelling protagonist, but frequently still manages to get under my skin. More often than not, she ends up being her own worst enemy, and it’s a lesson she’s failed to learn since the first book. And even though I understand it comes with the territory of her job, some of her methods for chasing information also leave a bad taste in my mouth. There are plenty of moments where her decisions feel frustrating, especially when she’s clearly worried about her own safety and her son’s, yet in the very next scene, she’s charging straight into another dangerous situation instead of pulling back. Yes, it creates tension, but it also makes it harder to fully get behind her choices, leaving her character caught somewhere between being admirable and idiotic.
Still, I had a good time with this one. Overall, Two Truths and a Lie is a solid if slightly less focused follow-up that continues Flynn Martin’s story in an engaging and meaningful way. Where the first book felt like a tight psychological showdown, you might find this one to be a broader, more chaotic mystery. Not necessarily a bad trade-off, but it does sometimes feel like it’s juggling a few too many ideas at once. Even so, while it may not reach the heights as No Lie Lasts Forever, it remains a worthwhile sequel that keeps you invested in both the characters and the world.
After having such an enjoyable time with Mark Stevens’s No Lie Lasts Forever, I went into the sequel Two Truths and a Lie expecting more of that same sharp cat-and-mouse tension. The good news is, I still received an engaging thriller. That said, this one didn’t quite hit me in the same way as the first book. While it’s still a great follow-up with plenty to like, I just think it was missing some of what made the original feel so tight and suspenseful.
The story picks up with the return of series protagonist Flynn Martin, a Denver journalist who finds herself back in the spotlight following her role in capturing the PDQ Killer, the man who terrorized the city fifteen years ago by murdering three women. At least this time, she’s making headlines for the right reasons, earning back the trust of her employer. But that high doesn’t last long. When a family of four disappears under suspicious circumstances, Flynn seizes the opportunity to prove herself, digging into what at first looks like a tragic but routine missing persons case. However, it quickly becomes clear that there’s far more to the story.
At the same time, Flynn begins receiving unsettling messages, written in a way that immediately brings the PDQ Killer to mind, even though he’s supposedly behind bars and no longer a threat. Or is he? The possibility that she’s being watched again leaves her fearing for her family’s safety, and that personal threat adds a new sense of urgency to the investigation. As Flynn follows the trail, the case begins to branch in multiple directions, pulling in connections to a powerful local church, whispers of corruption, and a web of secrets that may all be connected.
Much like the first book, what continues to work really well here is Stevens’ writing style. The prose is clean and direct, built for speed. It makes for another easy, bingeable read. The newsroom angle remains a strong hook, and I like how the case plays out like a police procedural while approaching it from a different perspective through Flynn’s role. Not being in law enforcement does limit her in some ways, but at the same time, her position as a journalist opens doors and gives her access to sources she might not otherwise reach. The high-octane, punchy pacing highlights the need for instant action as Flynn chases downs leads and puts the pieces of the puzzle together, giving the story a sharp edge.
That said, the structure of this sequel feels noticeably busier. There is simply so much happening all at once, it’s not always clear which thread is the main one, so the end result feels a bit scattered. Compared to the first book, where both the central conflict and the villain were sharply defined, this one comes across as more of a jumble. While it does keep things unpredictable and opens up a wider web of possibilities, this approach also ends up diluting some of the tension, especially when the antagonist and the story’s direction feel less focused.
Flynn herself remains a compelling protagonist, but frequently still manages to get under my skin. More often than not, she ends up being her own worst enemy, and it’s a lesson she’s failed to learn since the first book. And even though I understand it comes with the territory of her job, some of her methods for chasing information also leave a bad taste in my mouth. There are plenty of moments where her decisions feel frustrating, especially when she’s clearly worried about her own safety and her son’s, yet in the very next scene, she’s charging straight into another dangerous situation instead of pulling back. Yes, it creates tension, but it also makes it harder to fully get behind her choices, leaving her character caught somewhere between being admirable and idiotic.
Still, I had a good time with this one. Overall, Two Truths and a Lie is a solid if slightly less focused follow-up that continues Flynn Martin’s story in an engaging and meaningful way. Where the first book felt like a tight psychological showdown, you might find this one to be a broader, more chaotic mystery. Not necessarily a bad trade-off, but it does sometimes feel like it’s juggling a few too many ideas at once. Even so, while it may not reach the heights as No Lie Lasts Forever, it remains a worthwhile sequel that keeps you invested in both the characters and the world.
April 14, 2026
This was a solid follow-up. I like the characters, and the writing really grabs my attention. I find the use of text messages to be an effective way of advancing the story and providing information without getting annoying, as in other stories. My biggest complaint is the ending. Yes, it’s set up for another, since it’s a series after all. But it feels very incomplete—both the main mystery and the B mystery. Oh well. Minor complaint. Overall, it’s a good read.
May 13, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Brilliance Audio for the ARC of this audiobook.
I'm sorry, but I really didn't like this book. I thought it was incredibly boring and didn't grab me in like most murder mystery/thrillers do.
I found the characters to be a bit dull and not engaging at all
I'm sorry, but I really didn't like this book. I thought it was incredibly boring and didn't grab me in like most murder mystery/thrillers do.
I found the characters to be a bit dull and not engaging at all
April 12, 2026
Two Truths and a Lie: A Thriller by Mark Stevens is the second book in the series that began with No Lie Lasts Forever. Billed as a sequel, it is in some senses. In others, it is more a continuation of the first book as those events are predominant through the entirety of this book. Therefore, while I am trying to minimize spoilers, some are present in this review. Suffice it to say, if you continue reading about this very good book, don’t blame the reviewer.
As the book begins, the trial of Harry Kugel is underway. Harry Kugel was the man known locally as the “PDQ” killer. He had killed several times decades earlier and then went dark for many years. His ego brought him down as recent murders had been reminiscent of his work. He did not like the fact that somebody was taking credit now off of his legacy. He wanted the imposter gone. So, he reached out to TV Reporter Flynn Martin who is a bit of a legend, for good and bad reasons, in Denver. Ultimately, she survived, and the man who put her and others through hell was identified and exposed by her reporting. A little over a year later, he has finally been convicted for what he has done and was sentenced to three consecutive life terms.
Seconds before he is taken off to jail and then to prison from the courtroom, he turns to her and promises that nothing is over.
Several months later, long after she and her son, Wyatt, moved to a more secure home high in a Denver tower, and just when she finally feels like things are going back to a quasi-normal, the terror of being stalked and a target begins again. It has been a long day in the field with camera operator and good friend, Tamica Porter, as she sits and goes through paperwork her teen son brought home from school. Amidst the normal stuff is a sealed envelope that scares her at the sight of it. She’s moved and taken drastic measures for privacy. All that seems to have been for naught as she opens the envelope and finds a single white sheet of paper.
That single white sheet of paper is full of cryptic sentences very reminiscent what PDQ used to send her. But, he is in prison, so he can’t be terrorizing her again this way. Or could he? Does the prison even look at anything he mails out? Or did he have an unknown accomplice? Or is it one of his cult members drawn to act by the extensive media coverage of the trial and her role in his capture? Or is it some whack job looking to impress PDQ? These questions and others terrorize her as it is clear that somebody got close enough to her son to send a message.
A message that scares her in every fiber of her being, while at the same time, intrigues and pulls her into another very high-profile story. A story that could easily get her and others killed. Which could also be said about some of the other stories she is soon working on, including the disappearance of a local family of four.
Two Truths and a Lie: A Thriller by Mark Stevens again takes readers to Denver, the world of journalism, and the debate over which stories and which victims get media coverage. Published by Thomas & Mercer, this read is another good one in the series and a bit more intense than No Lie Lasts Forever. This read builds on that book extensively and keeps the momentum going as it very clearly sets up a third book in the series.
Both books are strongly recommended as is reading them in order. Not only are the stories in the reads strong, but one is also given plenty to think about regarding actual journalism, the media, and what goes on these days.
My digital ARC reading copy came by way of the publisher, Thomas & Mercer, through NetGalley, with no expectation of a positive review.
Kevin R. Tipple ©2026
April 11, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Immersive reading experienced - able to read the advanced copy via ebook and audio.
Just as Flynn Martin thought she was safe and free from the serial killer who turned her world upside down a string of murders and anonymous letters popping up in random places. Once again she being the target strikes again. Flynn is convinced that these murders are an exact replica of the serial killer PDQ who is locked away in prison under maximum security.
I was able to do an immersive read for this book as I was given the ebook and audio version to experience the thriller. Let’s start with the audio version…
The narrator did a good job of breaking up the voices to represent the different characters. She was able to accomplish this with both male and female characters. There are a few times where she may have used a bit deeper voice for Flynn’s camera lady and friend Tamica. Overall, the narrator kept me engaged in the story and the writing kept me hanging on every word.
The writing - let’s just say that the book continues to twist and turn and keep you listening to find out what murder would be next and/or where the strange letter would turn up next.
I am not really sure exactly where Mark is trying to go with the consistent need to point out which characters are black in the story. While I love the fact that his characters are from various races, as a black woman - I found myself trying to figure out why only the black characters were noted throughout the book. Towards the end, Mark did bring in the reality of the haves and the have nots and the discrimination that can take place in society. I felt that was both interesting and clever the way that he integrated this into this mystery thriller. I’m curious to see if this is a recurring theme in his writings.
Flynn does not know who to trust but has made herself believe that somehow, someway this serial killer in prison is continuing to haunt her. She is afraid that those she loves will be caught in the crossfire of her drama. These are her close circle which includes her former detective dad, son Wyatt and ex-husband who is a cop. As she navigates through the drama, these people play a vital role in uncovering the man or woman behind the pen.
Overall, I do believe that there were parts of the book that could have been left out. During the scenes between pop up murders and letters the story seemed to start dragging and just as I was about to put it down another curveball came on the scene and I couldn’t put it down.
The lie - this story did NOT give me closure. It hit me like a ton of bricks. Mark is WRONG for taking us through there like this. I definitely know there is a next book coming - well, there BETTER be! I enjoyed the book enough that I have gone back to purchase Book 1 so that I can get more insight. This book will have you getting out the notepad and doing the detective work. I would recommend it to anyone who is a fan of thrillers and mysteries, but just know there is a book that would be beneficial to read prior to reading this one.
My only tweak would be that the book could be a bit shorter and take out some unnecessary parts that do not get us closer to the finish line. However, despite that I WILL be reading the next one and waiting for it patiently.
Immersive reading experienced - able to read the advanced copy via ebook and audio.
Just as Flynn Martin thought she was safe and free from the serial killer who turned her world upside down a string of murders and anonymous letters popping up in random places. Once again she being the target strikes again. Flynn is convinced that these murders are an exact replica of the serial killer PDQ who is locked away in prison under maximum security.
I was able to do an immersive read for this book as I was given the ebook and audio version to experience the thriller. Let’s start with the audio version…
The narrator did a good job of breaking up the voices to represent the different characters. She was able to accomplish this with both male and female characters. There are a few times where she may have used a bit deeper voice for Flynn’s camera lady and friend Tamica. Overall, the narrator kept me engaged in the story and the writing kept me hanging on every word.
The writing - let’s just say that the book continues to twist and turn and keep you listening to find out what murder would be next and/or where the strange letter would turn up next.
I am not really sure exactly where Mark is trying to go with the consistent need to point out which characters are black in the story. While I love the fact that his characters are from various races, as a black woman - I found myself trying to figure out why only the black characters were noted throughout the book. Towards the end, Mark did bring in the reality of the haves and the have nots and the discrimination that can take place in society. I felt that was both interesting and clever the way that he integrated this into this mystery thriller. I’m curious to see if this is a recurring theme in his writings.
Flynn does not know who to trust but has made herself believe that somehow, someway this serial killer in prison is continuing to haunt her. She is afraid that those she loves will be caught in the crossfire of her drama. These are her close circle which includes her former detective dad, son Wyatt and ex-husband who is a cop. As she navigates through the drama, these people play a vital role in uncovering the man or woman behind the pen.
Overall, I do believe that there were parts of the book that could have been left out. During the scenes between pop up murders and letters the story seemed to start dragging and just as I was about to put it down another curveball came on the scene and I couldn’t put it down.
The lie - this story did NOT give me closure. It hit me like a ton of bricks. Mark is WRONG for taking us through there like this. I definitely know there is a next book coming - well, there BETTER be! I enjoyed the book enough that I have gone back to purchase Book 1 so that I can get more insight. This book will have you getting out the notepad and doing the detective work. I would recommend it to anyone who is a fan of thrillers and mysteries, but just know there is a book that would be beneficial to read prior to reading this one.
My only tweak would be that the book could be a bit shorter and take out some unnecessary parts that do not get us closer to the finish line. However, despite that I WILL be reading the next one and waiting for it patiently.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ugh - Mark! How could you possibly end a book this way?! Rest assured, I'll be waiting on pins and needles until the next book releases! And...hopefully that will be sooner than later!
'Two Truths and a Lie,' a FOUR STAR book, is the second book in a series following single mom and TV reporter Flynn Martin. Having just been stalked by a dormant serial killer, Harry Kugel known as PDQ when he was active, until he sets his sights on her, Flynn trusts four people -
1. her father Michael, whose reporter footsteps she followed in, who is her first-go-to when she questions her role as a reporter;
2. Max, her ex-husband who is also a cop meaning he's another person Flynn goes to especially when she's investigating a case, sometimes getting help from Max but often being told it would be too intrusive if Max tries to insert himself into a case he's not assigned to;
3. Wyatt, son of Flynn and Max, who is Flynn's heart and sole concern; Wyatt is bright, kind, and curious
4. last there is Tamika - Flynn's coworker, colleague, fellow journalist who stays behind the camera as a photojournalist. Tamika has become more than a colleague and is one of Flynn's best friends and closest confidant.
In the second book, Flynn is being targeted again and she firmly believes the same serial killer who stalked her in book one, who was also subsequently jailed, is behind things. However, those around her aren't convinced considering the current news stories, the murder of a fellow journalist and the disappearance of a church going family, don't seem related.
But then Flynn starts to get texts. Again. This time someone is sending her texts saying "the pattern is no pattern." To her, the seemingly unrelated stories fits that description so in true Flynn Martin fashion, she begins to dig deeper until she's about to blow the cover on a HUGE entanglement of crimes and lies that will ruin lives.
Will she get the chance to bring the truth to light? Will she find out who her new, mysterious texter is? Are her fears correct - is the serial killer Harry she helped put behind bars - somehow involved in this? And who is the creepy person in the chapters about someone holding someone else against their will?
This could have been a five star read for me but I had to take one star off for Flynn's seemingly CONSTANT thoughts of having an intimate partner again and setting her sights on Axel, a new character in book two. As a woman, I know I would absolutely NOT even begin to think of being intimate when my family isn't safe, I'm getting unusual texts, and notes are showing up on my car right after I've been somewhere meaning someone is obviously following me.
That aside, I'm really loving the Flynn Martin series and can't wait for a third book considering how book two ended!
Thank you NetGalley, Mark Stevens, and Thomas & Mercer for gifting the ARC in exchange for a review before the proposed release date of April 7th. It was a thrilling delight!
'Two Truths and a Lie,' a FOUR STAR book, is the second book in a series following single mom and TV reporter Flynn Martin. Having just been stalked by a dormant serial killer, Harry Kugel known as PDQ when he was active, until he sets his sights on her, Flynn trusts four people -
1. her father Michael, whose reporter footsteps she followed in, who is her first-go-to when she questions her role as a reporter;
2. Max, her ex-husband who is also a cop meaning he's another person Flynn goes to especially when she's investigating a case, sometimes getting help from Max but often being told it would be too intrusive if Max tries to insert himself into a case he's not assigned to;
3. Wyatt, son of Flynn and Max, who is Flynn's heart and sole concern; Wyatt is bright, kind, and curious
4. last there is Tamika - Flynn's coworker, colleague, fellow journalist who stays behind the camera as a photojournalist. Tamika has become more than a colleague and is one of Flynn's best friends and closest confidant.
In the second book, Flynn is being targeted again and she firmly believes the same serial killer who stalked her in book one, who was also subsequently jailed, is behind things. However, those around her aren't convinced considering the current news stories, the murder of a fellow journalist and the disappearance of a church going family, don't seem related.
But then Flynn starts to get texts. Again. This time someone is sending her texts saying "the pattern is no pattern." To her, the seemingly unrelated stories fits that description so in true Flynn Martin fashion, she begins to dig deeper until she's about to blow the cover on a HUGE entanglement of crimes and lies that will ruin lives.
Will she get the chance to bring the truth to light? Will she find out who her new, mysterious texter is? Are her fears correct - is the serial killer Harry she helped put behind bars - somehow involved in this? And who is the creepy person in the chapters about someone holding someone else against their will?
This could have been a five star read for me but I had to take one star off for Flynn's seemingly CONSTANT thoughts of having an intimate partner again and setting her sights on Axel, a new character in book two. As a woman, I know I would absolutely NOT even begin to think of being intimate when my family isn't safe, I'm getting unusual texts, and notes are showing up on my car right after I've been somewhere meaning someone is obviously following me.
That aside, I'm really loving the Flynn Martin series and can't wait for a third book considering how book two ended!
Thank you NetGalley, Mark Stevens, and Thomas & Mercer for gifting the ARC in exchange for a review before the proposed release date of April 7th. It was a thrilling delight!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
TWO TRUTHS AND A LIE : A FLYNN MARTIN THRILLER by Mark Stevens
THOMAS & MERCER … APRIL 2026
RATING: B
Stevens uses his skills as an ex-reporter to capture the suspense and intrigue in the second book in a series, featuring Flynn Martin, investigative TV journalist. He supplies some of the necessary back story from the first book, No Lie Lasts Forever. She was embroiled in the events of the serial killer PDQ, Harry Kugel, and his eventual capture. Although her reputation was somewhat tarnished she finds herself enmeshed in investigating the disappearance of the Kline family. Patrick Kline was a senior warden of the vestry at New Hope Church, while is wife, Victoria was a teacher at Willow Creek Country Day. The innocents were Zachary age eleven, and the daughter, Adina, who was only nine. Mysteriously they vanished on the way to the airport for a planned vacation. Flynn was adept at juggling her duties as a mom to Wyatt and her investigative duties. In the course of her intensive probing and interviewing relevant people she had to consider the motives of greed, infidelity, jealousy , and even financial impropriety. She soon uncovered the existence of an older adopted son, whereabouts unknown, and the presence of multiple suspicious holding companies involved in the churches finances. Flynn was presented with a letter in Wyatt’s backpack written in a similar tone as those she received from Harry Kugel, hinting at involvement in the recent disappearance of the Kline family. Then a long time resident, Robert Waller, of Athmar Park is found murdered in his home. The investigating detective mentions that an unusual sheet of paper was left next to the victim. Is there a relationship here? Flynn’s sources start dropping like flies. More cryptic notes are left so that she will find them. Harry Kugel is behind bars for life, who has taken up his mantle?
Mark Stevens narrative provides crisp and action oriented prose that propels the plot onward with slowing developing suspense. The complex multi-threaded plot at times seems to blur the focus, and mire the reader in too many directions. Character development is primarily focused on the further development of Flynn Martin on her quest for redemption, while balancing the pressure of motherhood, and avoiding the danger of entanglement with a copycat killer. In spite of any shortcomings this novel, it remains very entertaining and a perfect book for a read at the beach or pool, or during a long airplane adventure. Flynn Martin remains a strong female protagonist worthy of further exploration.
THOMAS & MERCER … APRIL 2026
RATING: B
Stevens uses his skills as an ex-reporter to capture the suspense and intrigue in the second book in a series, featuring Flynn Martin, investigative TV journalist. He supplies some of the necessary back story from the first book, No Lie Lasts Forever. She was embroiled in the events of the serial killer PDQ, Harry Kugel, and his eventual capture. Although her reputation was somewhat tarnished she finds herself enmeshed in investigating the disappearance of the Kline family. Patrick Kline was a senior warden of the vestry at New Hope Church, while is wife, Victoria was a teacher at Willow Creek Country Day. The innocents were Zachary age eleven, and the daughter, Adina, who was only nine. Mysteriously they vanished on the way to the airport for a planned vacation. Flynn was adept at juggling her duties as a mom to Wyatt and her investigative duties. In the course of her intensive probing and interviewing relevant people she had to consider the motives of greed, infidelity, jealousy , and even financial impropriety. She soon uncovered the existence of an older adopted son, whereabouts unknown, and the presence of multiple suspicious holding companies involved in the churches finances. Flynn was presented with a letter in Wyatt’s backpack written in a similar tone as those she received from Harry Kugel, hinting at involvement in the recent disappearance of the Kline family. Then a long time resident, Robert Waller, of Athmar Park is found murdered in his home. The investigating detective mentions that an unusual sheet of paper was left next to the victim. Is there a relationship here? Flynn’s sources start dropping like flies. More cryptic notes are left so that she will find them. Harry Kugel is behind bars for life, who has taken up his mantle?
Mark Stevens narrative provides crisp and action oriented prose that propels the plot onward with slowing developing suspense. The complex multi-threaded plot at times seems to blur the focus, and mire the reader in too many directions. Character development is primarily focused on the further development of Flynn Martin on her quest for redemption, while balancing the pressure of motherhood, and avoiding the danger of entanglement with a copycat killer. In spite of any shortcomings this novel, it remains very entertaining and a perfect book for a read at the beach or pool, or during a long airplane adventure. Flynn Martin remains a strong female protagonist worthy of further exploration.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If you enjoy thrillers where the plot keeps tightening the screws until your blood pressure rises, Two Truths and a Lie absolutely delivers. This book had me flipping pages like I was personally responsible for solving the crime.
The story throws investigative journalist Flynn Martin straight back into chaos when a copycat killer begins leaving cryptic messages tied to her reporting. What starts as an investigation into a missing family quickly spirals into something darker, messier, and far more dangerous. Every time Flynn pulls on one thread, the entire situation unravels further, dragging in church secrets, suspicious finances, old grudges, and a killer who seems way too interested in her life.
Plot-wise, this thing moves. Mark Stevens clearly knows his newsroom world, and the investigative angle adds a sharp edge to the suspense. The writing leans fast, tense, and very “just one more chapter,” which is exactly what I want from a thriller. The pacing keeps the pressure high, the clues stack up in satisfying ways, and the twists kept me second-guessing myself more than once.
Is the plot a little chaotic at times? Yes. Are there a lot of threads happening at once? Also yes. But honestly, that slightly unhinged energy kind of works for the story. The whole book feels like Flynn trying to juggle a thousand disasters while someone lurks in the shadows playing a very deadly game with her sources.
Flynn herself is a solid protagonist—smart, stubborn, and a little feral when it comes to chasing the truth. Watching her balance investigative reporting, motherhood, and the very real possibility that someone is targeting her made the stakes feel personal and intense.
I will say this probably reads best if you’ve already read No Lie Lasts Forever, since some of the backstory ties directly into the copycat situation. But even jumping in here, the suspense and pacing make it a gripping ride.
Overall, this is a tense, twisty newsroom thriller with plenty of scandal, conspiracy, and murder to keep you glued to the page. Basically the literary equivalent of saying “I’ll just read one more chapter” and then realizing it’s 2 a.m. and you’ve made several poor life decisions.
Thank you to NetGalley, Mark Stevens, and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. 🖤📚
The story throws investigative journalist Flynn Martin straight back into chaos when a copycat killer begins leaving cryptic messages tied to her reporting. What starts as an investigation into a missing family quickly spirals into something darker, messier, and far more dangerous. Every time Flynn pulls on one thread, the entire situation unravels further, dragging in church secrets, suspicious finances, old grudges, and a killer who seems way too interested in her life.
Plot-wise, this thing moves. Mark Stevens clearly knows his newsroom world, and the investigative angle adds a sharp edge to the suspense. The writing leans fast, tense, and very “just one more chapter,” which is exactly what I want from a thriller. The pacing keeps the pressure high, the clues stack up in satisfying ways, and the twists kept me second-guessing myself more than once.
Is the plot a little chaotic at times? Yes. Are there a lot of threads happening at once? Also yes. But honestly, that slightly unhinged energy kind of works for the story. The whole book feels like Flynn trying to juggle a thousand disasters while someone lurks in the shadows playing a very deadly game with her sources.
Flynn herself is a solid protagonist—smart, stubborn, and a little feral when it comes to chasing the truth. Watching her balance investigative reporting, motherhood, and the very real possibility that someone is targeting her made the stakes feel personal and intense.
I will say this probably reads best if you’ve already read No Lie Lasts Forever, since some of the backstory ties directly into the copycat situation. But even jumping in here, the suspense and pacing make it a gripping ride.
Overall, this is a tense, twisty newsroom thriller with plenty of scandal, conspiracy, and murder to keep you glued to the page. Basically the literary equivalent of saying “I’ll just read one more chapter” and then realizing it’s 2 a.m. and you’ve made several poor life decisions.
Thank you to NetGalley, Mark Stevens, and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. 🖤📚
April 9, 2026
⭐⭐⭐✨ (3.5/5 stars)
Two Truths and a Lie is one of those thrillers that pulls you in fast and keeps the tension pretty high the whole way through. I wouldn’t say it’s perfect, but it definitely had me in that “just one more chapter” mindset more than once.
This story follows Flynn Martin again, and I really like her as a main character. She’s determined, a little reckless, and clearly driven by both her job and her role as a mom. That balance between chasing a story and protecting her son adds a layer of stress that makes everything feel more personal.
The plot is busy- in both good and slightly overwhelming ways. There’s a missing family, a murdered man, suspicious church dealings, and these eerie, cryptic messages that seem way too connected to Flynn’s past. It all builds into this tangled web of secrets and lies that keeps you guessing. At times it felt like a lot was going on, and I had to pause and mentally piece things together, but it also kept things interesting.
The pacing is solid for most of the book, pretty fast, pretty tense, but I did feel like some parts got a little chaotic with so many threads happening at once. That said, I was never bored. If anything, it just felt like controlled chaos (and sometimes… slightly uncontrolled chaos 😅).
One thing I will say: this definitely feels like a continuation of a series. You can read it on its own, but I think it would hit even better if you’ve read the first book. There’s a lot tied to Flynn’s past, and that connection to the original case adds to the stakes.
And that ending… yeah. I’m going to need the next book because that was not okay in the best/worst way.
Overall, this was a really engaging, twisty thriller with a strong main character and plenty of suspense. Not everything landed perfectly for me, but it was still a fun, fast read- especially if you like investigative journalism mixed with crime and a touch of “someone is definitely watching you” vibes.
A big thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Two Truths and a Lie is one of those thrillers that pulls you in fast and keeps the tension pretty high the whole way through. I wouldn’t say it’s perfect, but it definitely had me in that “just one more chapter” mindset more than once.
This story follows Flynn Martin again, and I really like her as a main character. She’s determined, a little reckless, and clearly driven by both her job and her role as a mom. That balance between chasing a story and protecting her son adds a layer of stress that makes everything feel more personal.
The plot is busy- in both good and slightly overwhelming ways. There’s a missing family, a murdered man, suspicious church dealings, and these eerie, cryptic messages that seem way too connected to Flynn’s past. It all builds into this tangled web of secrets and lies that keeps you guessing. At times it felt like a lot was going on, and I had to pause and mentally piece things together, but it also kept things interesting.
The pacing is solid for most of the book, pretty fast, pretty tense, but I did feel like some parts got a little chaotic with so many threads happening at once. That said, I was never bored. If anything, it just felt like controlled chaos (and sometimes… slightly uncontrolled chaos 😅).
One thing I will say: this definitely feels like a continuation of a series. You can read it on its own, but I think it would hit even better if you’ve read the first book. There’s a lot tied to Flynn’s past, and that connection to the original case adds to the stakes.
And that ending… yeah. I’m going to need the next book because that was not okay in the best/worst way.
Overall, this was a really engaging, twisty thriller with a strong main character and plenty of suspense. Not everything landed perfectly for me, but it was still a fun, fast read- especially if you like investigative journalism mixed with crime and a touch of “someone is definitely watching you” vibes.
A big thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Two Truths and a Lie is the second book to feature TV Reporter Flynn Martin, the first being No Lie Lasts Forever. I have not read the first book, but I was able to get the backstory as the author does include key elements from the first book.
Once again Flynn is being targeted by what must be a copycat killer. The man who stalked her, serial killer PDQ, Harry Kugel, has been convicted, but he taunts her as he is led away by saying it is not over. Months later Flynn is investigating the disappearance of the Kline family. They vanished on their way to a vacation. As F.ynn investigates, she finds that there are questionable things going on with Patrick Kline's church.
Going through her son, Wyatt's backpack she finds an envelope among his papers, one that is reminiscent of those she received from the PDQ killer. How did someone get so close to her son? Is that someone who was a follower of PDQ?
A man, Robert Waller, is found murdered in his home and a note like the one received by Flynn is found at the scene. Her sources are being targeted and the same type of note is being left at the scene. Is all of this related? The bigger question, who is this person?
This is a well written book, I plan to go back and read the previous one. Flynn is a character you want on your side. She will do anything to protect her son. She also takes risks to get her story. The author creates a fair amount of tension, keeping the pace going so you don't want to stop. There are plenty of twists and turns so we keep guessing. I am can't wait for the next book, the cliff hanger at the end, unexpected!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Thomas & Mercer, for an ARC. The opinions in this review are my own.
Once again Flynn is being targeted by what must be a copycat killer. The man who stalked her, serial killer PDQ, Harry Kugel, has been convicted, but he taunts her as he is led away by saying it is not over. Months later Flynn is investigating the disappearance of the Kline family. They vanished on their way to a vacation. As F.ynn investigates, she finds that there are questionable things going on with Patrick Kline's church.
Going through her son, Wyatt's backpack she finds an envelope among his papers, one that is reminiscent of those she received from the PDQ killer. How did someone get so close to her son? Is that someone who was a follower of PDQ?
A man, Robert Waller, is found murdered in his home and a note like the one received by Flynn is found at the scene. Her sources are being targeted and the same type of note is being left at the scene. Is all of this related? The bigger question, who is this person?
This is a well written book, I plan to go back and read the previous one. Flynn is a character you want on your side. She will do anything to protect her son. She also takes risks to get her story. The author creates a fair amount of tension, keeping the pace going so you don't want to stop. There are plenty of twists and turns so we keep guessing. I am can't wait for the next book, the cliff hanger at the end, unexpected!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Thomas & Mercer, for an ARC. The opinions in this review are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was not expecting this to end on a cliffhanger!!
Flynn Martin is a journalist tangled in a new case, but finds herself under the eye of a killer. She is sure this links back to the PDQ killer, but given she helped put him behind bars, how can that be possible?
At first this story was a bit hard to get into since this is book two and follows directly after the capture of the PDQ killer, but once I got my bearings the pages turned quickly. I enjoyed the author’s writing style with short chapters and crisp dialogue. It is very dialogue heavy which really worked with this story.
I enjoyed Flynn’s inner monologue, her desire to keep her son safe and how she navigated her relationships, especially with that of her ex-husband. She is methodical in her journalistic methods but rarely makes the safe decisions in pursuit of her story.
Overall, this is a really good thriller, following the two separate but somehow entangled cases. And with that cliff hanger ending, you know I’ll be watching out for Flynn’s next instalment!
Flynn Martin is a journalist tangled in a new case, but finds herself under the eye of a killer. She is sure this links back to the PDQ killer, but given she helped put him behind bars, how can that be possible?
At first this story was a bit hard to get into since this is book two and follows directly after the capture of the PDQ killer, but once I got my bearings the pages turned quickly. I enjoyed the author’s writing style with short chapters and crisp dialogue. It is very dialogue heavy which really worked with this story.
I enjoyed Flynn’s inner monologue, her desire to keep her son safe and how she navigated her relationships, especially with that of her ex-husband. She is methodical in her journalistic methods but rarely makes the safe decisions in pursuit of her story.
Overall, this is a really good thriller, following the two separate but somehow entangled cases. And with that cliff hanger ending, you know I’ll be watching out for Flynn’s next instalment!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I feel like I missed out by not reading the first book in the series. Flynn Martin is a smart investigative journalist, I liked her character, she's balancing motherhood and being a journalist. She helped put a serial killer behind bars, but now she finds herself tangled in a new case. A family has gone missing. There is an indication that maybe the original serial killer has a connection to the missing family. So, is that killer the mastermind of a new plot even though he's in prison? There is now a copycat killer that is in play. The plot is chaotic and complex, there are clues, tension and suspense, and twist and turns. Flynn is drawn into a game with a killer. There is murder, conspiracy and danger thrown in the mix. I would be interested in reading other books by the author, including going back and reading the first book in the series and then it looks to be there will be a 3rd book in the series also. Thank you Netgalley and Thomas and Mercer for the complimentary copy of the story.
April 19, 2026
When I began reading this book, I was unaware that it was the second installment in a series. This lack of prior knowledge made it somewhat challenging to follow the storyline at first. Despite this, I found the plot involving PDQ and the copycat to be both solid and intriguing. The execution of the narrative, however, was occasionally difficult to navigate, and I often struggled to separate the information presented. This may simply reflect the author’s distinctive style. Overall, I thought the book was good, though I am uncertain whether I would seek out more works by this author. For readers who enjoy the thriller and crime genres, I would recommend giving this book a try, as the style may appeal to them.
At the outset, I experienced some confusion, largely because I had not read the first book. Fortunately, the author provided sufficient background information to help new readers catch up. Once the story gained momentum, I found myself thoroughly enjoying it. In summary, this is a good thriller with well-developed suspense.
At the outset, I experienced some confusion, largely because I had not read the first book. Fortunately, the author provided sufficient background information to help new readers catch up. Once the story gained momentum, I found myself thoroughly enjoying it. In summary, this is a good thriller with well-developed suspense.
April 22, 2026
Two Truths and a Lie is a fast-paced mystery that grabs the reader's attention from the beginning. Flynn Martin is trying to leave her bad life/working experience behind her, she moved to a new home and is taking every precaution to keep her son and herself safe. When she reports on the disappearence of a family of four (couple plus two children) she'll put all her investigative skills to use and will find an intricate net of deceit lies, greed, treason and manipulation (of facts, news, people) that'll, again, shatter her newly acquired peaceful life. The story also made me think about media manipulation of facts which happens in higher or lesser levels depending on the subject, country and which is the media outlet reporting the news. Engaging and entertaining, a story that's compatible with our time.
I thank the author, his publisher, and NetGalley for this ARC.
I thank the author, his publisher, and NetGalley for this ARC.
April 13, 2026
I really like Ina Barrón’s voice and loved her in The Girls Before, so I was excited for this one. She has a great tone and presence, but I don’t think this title was the best fit for her strengths. With such a large cast, the dialogue felt a little choppy and it never fully became a smooth listen for me. Sometimes certain narrators just click better with certain types of stories, and this one didn’t quite land the way I hoped.
The story follows an investigative reporter with serial killer elements woven in, which should’ve been right up my alley. But it was a slower, more character driven build than I expected. This is also the second book in a series, so I do think reading book one first may have helped me connect more with the characters and appreciate the slower setup. Overall, not a bad book, I just never fully got on board with either the pacing or the audio experience.
The story follows an investigative reporter with serial killer elements woven in, which should’ve been right up my alley. But it was a slower, more character driven build than I expected. This is also the second book in a series, so I do think reading book one first may have helped me connect more with the characters and appreciate the slower setup. Overall, not a bad book, I just never fully got on board with either the pacing or the audio experience.
April 22, 2026
Great read with some frustrations.
The first book was great, so naturally, I looked forward to book 2. It was good, too, don't get me wrong. I was just constantly frustrated by Flynn, who we know to be a very good and experienced reporter, not thinking outside the box enough. Sure, she believes PDQ is involved with the envelopes and deaths, but she knows it's not him. He's behind bars. Then she keeps venturing off alone, telling no one what's going on. It's like she wanted to make things easy for whoever was out to get her. I felt like, rather than making herself appear as if she was losing her mind, her character should've been more strategic and calculating than she was.
The first book was great, so naturally, I looked forward to book 2. It was good, too, don't get me wrong. I was just constantly frustrated by Flynn, who we know to be a very good and experienced reporter, not thinking outside the box enough. Sure, she believes PDQ is involved with the envelopes and deaths, but she knows it's not him. He's behind bars. Then she keeps venturing off alone, telling no one what's going on. It's like she wanted to make things easy for whoever was out to get her. I felt like, rather than making herself appear as if she was losing her mind, her character should've been more strategic and calculating than she was.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
When I started this book, I was not aware that it was a 2nd book in a series. I think the storyline of PDQ and the copycat is solid and interesting, however, the execution was a little hard to follow. It was a struggle for me to read and get the information separated, but that may just be the style that the author uses. Overall, it was a good book, but I am not sure I would read more from this author. I will say that if someone enjoys thriller/crime, they should at least try to read it, as they may enjoy the style of writing.
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for an eARC of this book!
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for an eARC of this book!
December 27, 2025
I will preface this review by saying if you didn’t read the first book in the series (No Lie Lasts Forever), you probably won’t enjoy this book. Not to mention, you’ll be completely lost and confused.
I enjoyed book one, but Two Truths and a Lie was excellent. It surpassed my expectations. I loved that the story picked up right where it left off, with the same main characters coming back strong.
Overall, the series is great if you can handle the slow burn. Book two was easily 5 stars for me and I’m looking forward to more Flynn Martin in the future!
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
I enjoyed book one, but Two Truths and a Lie was excellent. It surpassed my expectations. I loved that the story picked up right where it left off, with the same main characters coming back strong.
Overall, the series is great if you can handle the slow burn. Book two was easily 5 stars for me and I’m looking forward to more Flynn Martin in the future!
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“Two Truths and a Lie” is a gripping, high-stakes thriller that pulls you in and doesn’t let go.
Following reporter Flynn Martin as she’s drawn into a deadly game with a copycat killer, the story is packed with tension, twists, and a chilling sense of danger. I especially loved Flynn as a main character because her determination to uncover the truth, no matter the cost, made her incredibly compelling and easy to root for.
With layers of mystery, conspiracy, and personal stakes, this book kept me turning pages until the very end. A solid pick for thriller fans who enjoy fast-paced, suspenseful reads.
Following reporter Flynn Martin as she’s drawn into a deadly game with a copycat killer, the story is packed with tension, twists, and a chilling sense of danger. I especially loved Flynn as a main character because her determination to uncover the truth, no matter the cost, made her incredibly compelling and easy to root for.
With layers of mystery, conspiracy, and personal stakes, this book kept me turning pages until the very end. A solid pick for thriller fans who enjoy fast-paced, suspenseful reads.
April 12, 2026
I read the first Flynn Martin book before starting this one and I have to say the ending of No Lie Lasts Forever was much better than Two Truths and a Lie. Unfortunately the writing style was not my favorite. There was a lot of explanation that didn’t need to be included and made me disengage during multiple chapters. I did like the storyline, although I feel like it’s a bit out there that a reporter would be the one to break the story. Meanwhile, the cops are second on scene and still let her ask them questions while filming?
Narrator was nice to listen to, but some chapters were overdramatized and it was a bit much.
3.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley for the ALC!
Narrator was nice to listen to, but some chapters were overdramatized and it was a bit much.
3.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley for the ALC!
April 13, 2026
Many thanks to NetGalley and Brilliance Audio for the free audiobook in exchange for my honest review. Ina Barrón does a good job of narrating the story.
Flynn Martin is a single mom and TV reporter who has finally put the PDQ murderer, Harry Kugel, behind her or so she thought. Now both she and Wyatt are being targeted by a copycat while working on 2 other cases that may or may not be related.
This is an interesting newsroom thriller with plenty of scandal, conspiracy, and murder to keep you interested. I do think that the story could have been tightened up and not as long as it is. Otherwise, a solid read. 3.5 rounded up.
Flynn Martin is a single mom and TV reporter who has finally put the PDQ murderer, Harry Kugel, behind her or so she thought. Now both she and Wyatt are being targeted by a copycat while working on 2 other cases that may or may not be related.
This is an interesting newsroom thriller with plenty of scandal, conspiracy, and murder to keep you interested. I do think that the story could have been tightened up and not as long as it is. Otherwise, a solid read. 3.5 rounded up.
May 7, 2026
This was a really good thriller and definitely kept my attention from beginning to end.
I liked the investigative journalist angle and thought Flynn was a really strong FMC. The copycat killer storyline was interesting, the pacing stayed quick, and there were enough twists to keep me invested the whole time.
The mystery surrounding the missing family and the church connections added a lot of tension, and I liked how the story balanced suspense with Flynn’s personal struggles. Some parts were a little complex at times, but overall I thought it came together really well.
A solid 4-star thriller for me and I’d definitely read more from this series.
I liked the investigative journalist angle and thought Flynn was a really strong FMC. The copycat killer storyline was interesting, the pacing stayed quick, and there were enough twists to keep me invested the whole time.
The mystery surrounding the missing family and the church connections added a lot of tension, and I liked how the story balanced suspense with Flynn’s personal struggles. Some parts were a little complex at times, but overall I thought it came together really well.
A solid 4-star thriller for me and I’d definitely read more from this series.
November 28, 2025
This book is a genre that I love. Serial killer - investigations - crime... but I struggled getting into it.
I forced myself to finish it, and it has taken me days!
So many characters and I am afraid I don't like the style of writing. It is far too wordy, and unnecessary information.
I haven't read the first book in the series - maybe I should have.
However, This is my own opinion. Other readers will probably love the convoluted story of a journalist being stalked by a copycat.
I really did not enjoy the style of writing. The book does not 'flow' smoothly.
I forced myself to finish it, and it has taken me days!
So many characters and I am afraid I don't like the style of writing. It is far too wordy, and unnecessary information.
I haven't read the first book in the series - maybe I should have.
However, This is my own opinion. Other readers will probably love the convoluted story of a journalist being stalked by a copycat.
I really did not enjoy the style of writing. The book does not 'flow' smoothly.
May 20, 2026
When a female reporter comes to realize a murder living in canon city prison may be involved in questionable events starts a huge possible crime. Lots of police and other news groups working the possible crime, trying to figure out how he is able to get revenge. Typical news reporter having to be the first, a very competitive career. Feel concerned how they put that before the victims. Story taking place in my area. Great description.
April 7, 2026
Two Truths and a Lie is an incredible follow-up to No Lie Lasts Forever. Mark Stevens raises the stakes for Flynn Martin in all the right ways. This one feels sharper, darker, and even more personal. The pacing is tight, the tension builds steadily, and just when you think you have a handle on things, it twists again.
And that ending… let’s just say I’ll be very ready for book three.
And that ending… let’s just say I’ll be very ready for book three.
April 30, 2026
I enjoyed the first Flynn Martin book, but I did not care for this one. I'm fine with books that have open endings and allowing for sequels, but they need to have a bit more closure than I got with this one. The bigger issue is, I can't figure out why anyone really likes Flynn Martin. No real redeeming qualities.
May 20, 2026
3 stars
Reasonably good mystery thriller with reporter Flynn Martin.
There’s a copycat stalking Flynn. And there’s a murder of innocents. One series is related to Flynn and her reporting. Witnesses she talks to, turn up murdered.
And there’s the stalking and circling around Flynn herself.
It was a good book. I’m disappointed that it left on a cliffhanger though.
Reasonably good mystery thriller with reporter Flynn Martin.
There’s a copycat stalking Flynn. And there’s a murder of innocents. One series is related to Flynn and her reporting. Witnesses she talks to, turn up murdered.
And there’s the stalking and circling around Flynn herself.
It was a good book. I’m disappointed that it left on a cliffhanger though.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 stars! The story line about PDQ and the copy cat killer is solid. At times I felt there was just a little too much going on; details that could have been left out. I was taken a back that the story left off on a cliffhanger!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
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