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Reasons to Lie
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When a private school field trip ends with one student dead, three mothers must face the darkest secrets lurking beneath their lifestyles, their friendships, their children, and themselves.
In the privileged world of Manhattan’s elite Dearborn Academy, three mothers—Abby, Kara, and Hollis—form an unlikely bond. Until a student is murdered on a class trip their teenagers attended, and every parent has something to hide.
Artistic single mom Abby and career-challenged Kara have always felt like outsiders among Dearborn’s rich, powerful families. When glamorous, enigmatic Hollis arrives with her son and a picture-perfect life, they take her under their wing—despite nagging doubts about her past.
Their friendship only deepens after tragedy strikes on a school retreat. But as a determined detective edges closer to the truth of what happened in the woods that night, cracks begin to show—in their stories, their alliances, and their trust.
Each woman is keeping secrets. And so are their children.
Now, with everything at stake, Abby, Kara, and Hollis must decide how far they’ll go to protect their families—even if it means turning on one another.
Because everyone has a reason to lie.
And someone will stop at nothing to keep the truth buried.
In the privileged world of Manhattan’s elite Dearborn Academy, three mothers—Abby, Kara, and Hollis—form an unlikely bond. Until a student is murdered on a class trip their teenagers attended, and every parent has something to hide.
Artistic single mom Abby and career-challenged Kara have always felt like outsiders among Dearborn’s rich, powerful families. When glamorous, enigmatic Hollis arrives with her son and a picture-perfect life, they take her under their wing—despite nagging doubts about her past.
Their friendship only deepens after tragedy strikes on a school retreat. But as a determined detective edges closer to the truth of what happened in the woods that night, cracks begin to show—in their stories, their alliances, and their trust.
Each woman is keeping secrets. And so are their children.
Now, with everything at stake, Abby, Kara, and Hollis must decide how far they’ll go to protect their families—even if it means turning on one another.
Because everyone has a reason to lie.
And someone will stop at nothing to keep the truth buried.
329 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 24, 2026
11 people are currently reading
5500 people want to read
About the author
Emily Listfield
11 books51 followersI’m fascinated by how well we can ever truly know another human being — whether it’s a romantic partner, a best friend, or our own child.
My new novel, Reasons to Lie, pushes three mothers and best friends to confront this question when a student is murdered on a class trip all their teenagers were on. Suddenly, everyone is a suspect. And everyone is lying. How far will they go to protect their kids? How far would YOU go?
I grew up in New York City, raised my daughter here, and set the book in an elite Manhattan private school. Having navigated this world firsthand, I had a front-row seat to rich people behaving badly — and it was too good a story not to share! .
This is my eighth novel and I’m thrilled that Oprah Daily named it one of the most anticipated books of 2026.
I love hearing from readers and the conversations that stories create long after the last page. So get in touch!
My new novel, Reasons to Lie, pushes three mothers and best friends to confront this question when a student is murdered on a class trip all their teenagers were on. Suddenly, everyone is a suspect. And everyone is lying. How far will they go to protect their kids? How far would YOU go?
I grew up in New York City, raised my daughter here, and set the book in an elite Manhattan private school. Having navigated this world firsthand, I had a front-row seat to rich people behaving badly — and it was too good a story not to share! .
This is my eighth novel and I’m thrilled that Oprah Daily named it one of the most anticipated books of 2026.
I love hearing from readers and the conversations that stories create long after the last page. So get in touch!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
December 7, 2025
It is such a pleasure to be part of Thriller Book Lovers The Pulse , getting to read some great books that otherwise might have slipped by me. I could not resist getting a copy of Reasons to Lie, who doesn’t love an academic drama full of unlikeable characters right.
This was a pretty fast read once I got into it. The start was a little slow but it certainly built up and I couldn’t stop reading. Set in New York, it focuses on the parents of students at an elite private school in Manhattan. Abby, Kara and Hollis ,mothers to Rachel, Olivia and Daniel. We get to know the families and the behind the scenes drama in their lives. It all comes to a head when the kids go off on a weekend away with the school, and a student dies. How far will a parent go to protect their child? The truth may surprise you. Full of cover ups, lies and past mistakes, who will survive the investigation?
A book that throws up plenty of questions, with lots of twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. Out on February 24th. I will be looking out for more from this author
This was a pretty fast read once I got into it. The start was a little slow but it certainly built up and I couldn’t stop reading. Set in New York, it focuses on the parents of students at an elite private school in Manhattan. Abby, Kara and Hollis ,mothers to Rachel, Olivia and Daniel. We get to know the families and the behind the scenes drama in their lives. It all comes to a head when the kids go off on a weekend away with the school, and a student dies. How far will a parent go to protect their child? The truth may surprise you. Full of cover ups, lies and past mistakes, who will survive the investigation?
A book that throws up plenty of questions, with lots of twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. Out on February 24th. I will be looking out for more from this author
December 17, 2025
Three moms. An elite private school. One devastating incident that blows everything wide open!!! This one is all about secrets and the messy choices people make when they’re desperate to protect their kids.
I loved the shifting POVs and the constant feeling that everyone was hiding something. It’s twisty, tense, and the kind of thriller that keeps you guessing until the end. Definitely one that’s easy to get sucked into!
I loved the shifting POVs and the constant feeling that everyone was hiding something. It’s twisty, tense, and the kind of thriller that keeps you guessing until the end. Definitely one that’s easy to get sucked into!
September 16, 2025
Secrets, lies, privilege, and the lengths people go to protect their families — this book ticked all those boxes for me. The setup hooked me right away: a student dies on a school trip, and from there we spiral into the lives of three very different mothers tied together by the exclusive Dearborn Academy.
I loved how flawed and layered Abby, Kara, and Hollis were — none of them were perfect, and that made them believable. Their shifting alliances, hidden pasts, and complicated friendships kept me flipping pages. The Manhattan private school setting amplified the drama perfectly — privilege, appearances, and judgment lurking around every corner.
This isn’t just a straight “whodunnit.” The mystery drives the plot, but the real tension comes from the emotional fallout and the moral dilemmas. Who can you trust? Which lies are protective, and which are destructive?
I will say some twists were a little predictable, and there were moments where the pacing slowed, but overall, it was an engrossing, tension-filled read that had me second-guessing everyone. If you like psychological suspense with messy, complicated characters and a social thriller edge, definitely put this one on your radar.
I loved how flawed and layered Abby, Kara, and Hollis were — none of them were perfect, and that made them believable. Their shifting alliances, hidden pasts, and complicated friendships kept me flipping pages. The Manhattan private school setting amplified the drama perfectly — privilege, appearances, and judgment lurking around every corner.
This isn’t just a straight “whodunnit.” The mystery drives the plot, but the real tension comes from the emotional fallout and the moral dilemmas. Who can you trust? Which lies are protective, and which are destructive?
I will say some twists were a little predictable, and there were moments where the pacing slowed, but overall, it was an engrossing, tension-filled read that had me second-guessing everyone. If you like psychological suspense with messy, complicated characters and a social thriller edge, definitely put this one on your radar.
October 4, 2025
Reasons to Lie marks my first completed and reviewed NetGalley advance reader copy, and it proved to be an emotionally charged and compelling read. Centered around three mothers who are navigating the complexities of raising teenagers, the novel offers a candid exploration of motherhood, identity, and the consequences of choices made under pressure.
What resonated most with me was the portrayal of parenting through the distinct lenses of Abby, Kara, and Hollis. As a mother of two teenagers myself, I found their experiences deeply relatable. The author skillfully captures the tension between societal expectations and personal weakness, reminding us that perfection in motherhood is just a myth—and that mistakes, although inevitable, can be life changing.
Likes:
❥ Multi-perspective narrative on parenting
❥ Fast-paced and emotionally engaging
❥ Strong character development and plot progression
Dislikes:
❥ The dynamic between Hollis and Jordan was non existent
❥ The betrayal between characters
❥ The portrayal of private school communities leaned heavily on negative stereotypes
Ratings
❥ Setting: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
❥ Character Building: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
❥ Writing Style: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
❥ Message: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
❥ Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In summary, Reasons to Lie is a thought-provoking and emotionally story that delves into the joys and trials of motherhood. Abby, Kara, and Hollis’ intertwined journeys serve as a reminder of the strength, vulnerability, and resilience that define parenting. Highly recommended for readers who appreciate character-driven stories with emotional depth.
~JaNnA~
What resonated most with me was the portrayal of parenting through the distinct lenses of Abby, Kara, and Hollis. As a mother of two teenagers myself, I found their experiences deeply relatable. The author skillfully captures the tension between societal expectations and personal weakness, reminding us that perfection in motherhood is just a myth—and that mistakes, although inevitable, can be life changing.
Likes:
❥ Multi-perspective narrative on parenting
❥ Fast-paced and emotionally engaging
❥ Strong character development and plot progression
Dislikes:
❥ The dynamic between Hollis and Jordan was non existent
❥ The betrayal between characters
❥ The portrayal of private school communities leaned heavily on negative stereotypes
Ratings
❥ Setting: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
❥ Character Building: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
❥ Writing Style: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
❥ Message: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
❥ Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In summary, Reasons to Lie is a thought-provoking and emotionally story that delves into the joys and trials of motherhood. Abby, Kara, and Hollis’ intertwined journeys serve as a reminder of the strength, vulnerability, and resilience that define parenting. Highly recommended for readers who appreciate character-driven stories with emotional depth.
~JaNnA~
January 26, 2026
REASONS TO LIE by @emilylistfield
📖 book review • pub date 02.24.26
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
thank you @thrillerbookloversthepulse + @amazonpublishing for my gifted ARC
a private school field trip ends with one student dead, and three mothers must face the darkest secrets lurking beneath their lifestyles, their friendships, their children, and themselves.
once I got into this story and got the hang of who everyone was.. it absolutely took off. I can never resist a story where people have so many things to hide. And especially love when you know there’s going to be someone 💀 but you don’t know who for a very long time. 👌🏻 this story was fast paced and had me turning the pages to find out what happened. Add to your TBR if you’re looking for a fast paced, school setting thriller with so many twists you’ll feel dizzy.
📖 book review • pub date 02.24.26
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
thank you @thrillerbookloversthepulse + @amazonpublishing for my gifted ARC
a private school field trip ends with one student dead, and three mothers must face the darkest secrets lurking beneath their lifestyles, their friendships, their children, and themselves.
once I got into this story and got the hang of who everyone was.. it absolutely took off. I can never resist a story where people have so many things to hide. And especially love when you know there’s going to be someone 💀 but you don’t know who for a very long time. 👌🏻 this story was fast paced and had me turning the pages to find out what happened. Add to your TBR if you’re looking for a fast paced, school setting thriller with so many twists you’ll feel dizzy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really enjoyed this book, it had me intrigued from the very beginning. Thrillers are my favorite genre to read and this one did not disappoint. I would definitely recommend this book to other thriller lovers
December 5, 2025
⚡️ F A S T P A C E D F R I D A Y review ⚡️ featuring “Reasons to Lie” by Emily Listfield!
Abby, Kara and Hollis are all mothers whose kids attend the elite Dearborn Academy in Manhattan. These women are very different from one another and come from varying pasts … yet have still formed an unbreakable bond when tragedy comes knocking.
A school field trip becomes a parent’s ultimate nightmare when a student ends up murdered! In a community where appearances are everything, everyone has a lot to hide! As the investigation starts to heat up and the pressure is on, tiny cracks start to form revolving what REALLY happened during the accident.
💭 One of my favourite things about being a part of #thepulse is getting introduced to dynamite authors! I really enjoyed the author’s clever writing style and ability to drop breadcrumbs bit by bit and still catch you off guard! The Manhattan private school was a chef’s kiss setting where broken friendships, dark secrets, sacrificing lies and the power of privilege all comes at a cost. Who is telling the truth and how far will they go to keep their secrets hidden?
Thank you kindly to @emilylistfield @thomasmerceruk @thrillerbookloversthepulse @netgalley for my advanced digital copy and spot on this book tour in exchange for my honest review. This book releases on February 24, 2026!
Abby, Kara and Hollis are all mothers whose kids attend the elite Dearborn Academy in Manhattan. These women are very different from one another and come from varying pasts … yet have still formed an unbreakable bond when tragedy comes knocking.
A school field trip becomes a parent’s ultimate nightmare when a student ends up murdered! In a community where appearances are everything, everyone has a lot to hide! As the investigation starts to heat up and the pressure is on, tiny cracks start to form revolving what REALLY happened during the accident.
💭 One of my favourite things about being a part of #thepulse is getting introduced to dynamite authors! I really enjoyed the author’s clever writing style and ability to drop breadcrumbs bit by bit and still catch you off guard! The Manhattan private school was a chef’s kiss setting where broken friendships, dark secrets, sacrificing lies and the power of privilege all comes at a cost. Who is telling the truth and how far will they go to keep their secrets hidden?
Thank you kindly to @emilylistfield @thomasmerceruk @thrillerbookloversthepulse @netgalley for my advanced digital copy and spot on this book tour in exchange for my honest review. This book releases on February 24, 2026!
October 4, 2025
3.7
While i'm always delighted to read about the comings and goings of privileged private school kids, it would have been way more fun if the author hadn't given away the twist/surprise bad guy super super early on. That said, there was enough ancillary stuff to keep things interesting before the inevitable reveal.
While i'm always delighted to read about the comings and goings of privileged private school kids, it would have been way more fun if the author hadn't given away the twist/surprise bad guy super super early on. That said, there was enough ancillary stuff to keep things interesting before the inevitable reveal.
September 13, 2025
Out February 24th, 2026
In the cloistered world of Manhattan’s elite, three mothers—Abby, Kara, and Hollis—forge an unexpected friendship at Dearborn Academy, a prestigious private school where appearances are everything. Abby, a creative single mother, and Kara, struggling to find her footing professionally, have long felt like outsiders among the school’s affluent families. When Hollis arrives with her son and a seemingly flawless life, the trio grows close, despite lingering doubts about Hollis’s mysterious past. Their bond is tested when a school field trip ends in tragedy: a student is found dead, and the idyllic façade of their lives begins to crack.
As the investigation into the death intensifies, a determined detective begins peeling back layers of deception surrounding the incident. Each woman harbors secrets—some about their children, others about themselves—and the pressure of scrutiny begins to expose fault lines in their relationships. The once-solid alliance between Abby, Kara, and Hollis starts to unravel as suspicions mount and loyalties shift. The narrative delves into the psychological tension of motherhood, privilege, and the lengths people will go to protect their families, even when it means betraying those closest to them.
The story crescendos into a gripping exploration of truth and survival, where every character is forced to confront the consequences of their choices. With reputations, relationships, and futures hanging in the balance, the women must decide whether to come clean or continue weaving lies to shield themselves and their children. In a world where everyone has something to hide, the question becomes not just who is lying—but why. The suspense builds as the truth threatens to surface, and someone proves willing to go to dangerous lengths to keep it buried.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this ARC!
In the cloistered world of Manhattan’s elite, three mothers—Abby, Kara, and Hollis—forge an unexpected friendship at Dearborn Academy, a prestigious private school where appearances are everything. Abby, a creative single mother, and Kara, struggling to find her footing professionally, have long felt like outsiders among the school’s affluent families. When Hollis arrives with her son and a seemingly flawless life, the trio grows close, despite lingering doubts about Hollis’s mysterious past. Their bond is tested when a school field trip ends in tragedy: a student is found dead, and the idyllic façade of their lives begins to crack.
As the investigation into the death intensifies, a determined detective begins peeling back layers of deception surrounding the incident. Each woman harbors secrets—some about their children, others about themselves—and the pressure of scrutiny begins to expose fault lines in their relationships. The once-solid alliance between Abby, Kara, and Hollis starts to unravel as suspicions mount and loyalties shift. The narrative delves into the psychological tension of motherhood, privilege, and the lengths people will go to protect their families, even when it means betraying those closest to them.
The story crescendos into a gripping exploration of truth and survival, where every character is forced to confront the consequences of their choices. With reputations, relationships, and futures hanging in the balance, the women must decide whether to come clean or continue weaving lies to shield themselves and their children. In a world where everyone has something to hide, the question becomes not just who is lying—but why. The suspense builds as the truth threatens to surface, and someone proves willing to go to dangerous lengths to keep it buried.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this ARC!
September 16, 2025
What is it about rich teenagers at fancy NYC private schools that is just so much fun?
Reasons to Lie is a page turner about three women with kids at Dearborn Academy. Each woman has her own secrets, and none of them know what their kids are truly up to. When a student is murdered on a school trip, we go on a rollercoaster ride to find out who did it and why.
Lots of lying, lots of scandal, lots of suspicion, lots of fun, plus valid commentary on the law and men and wealth and power.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Reasons to Lie is a page turner about three women with kids at Dearborn Academy. Each woman has her own secrets, and none of them know what their kids are truly up to. When a student is murdered on a school trip, we go on a rollercoaster ride to find out who did it and why.
Lots of lying, lots of scandal, lots of suspicion, lots of fun, plus valid commentary on the law and men and wealth and power.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
November 20, 2025
A private school field trip ends in disaster with one student dead. What happened? Was it an accident or was someone to blame?
Thrillers where the characters all have their own secrets are the best kind (I feel like I say this all the time but it's true!) and the author was clever, slowly treating us to one revelation at a time. I had my suspicions as to what I thought had happened but was so off the mark that when the final reveal came, after a few more twists, I was reeling. This fast paced thriller had me so enthralled. I don't hesitate in recommending you pick this one up if you enjoy thrillers!
Thrillers where the characters all have their own secrets are the best kind (I feel like I say this all the time but it's true!) and the author was clever, slowly treating us to one revelation at a time. I had my suspicions as to what I thought had happened but was so off the mark that when the final reveal came, after a few more twists, I was reeling. This fast paced thriller had me so enthralled. I don't hesitate in recommending you pick this one up if you enjoy thrillers!
November 26, 2025
In Reasons to Lie by Emily Listfield, everyone is hiding something. When a student dies on an overnight, private school field trip and the death is ruled a homicide, accusations start to fly and the secrets begin to emerge.
While the story centers around the homicide, the novel actually follows three of the students' moms- Kara, Hollis, and Abby. The trio have an unlikely friendship that is tested under the pressures of an investigation, especially when none of them can say for sure that their child is completely innocent.
This is a fairly quick read and I loved the elite private school aspect. Kara and Abby aren't your typical Manhattan-rich women so we didn't get that angle, but I did appreciate their storylines particularly with their joint business venture. Hollis' story intrigued me the most with her troubled son and her clearly tense relationship with her husband.
Admittedly, I could have used a bit more character development and some clearer focus on the students but overall I liked how much of the story played out and there were some surprises that I didn't expect. The Pulse introduced me to Listfield and I'm excited to pick up more by her!! Reasons to Lie releases February 24, 2026.
While the story centers around the homicide, the novel actually follows three of the students' moms- Kara, Hollis, and Abby. The trio have an unlikely friendship that is tested under the pressures of an investigation, especially when none of them can say for sure that their child is completely innocent.
This is a fairly quick read and I loved the elite private school aspect. Kara and Abby aren't your typical Manhattan-rich women so we didn't get that angle, but I did appreciate their storylines particularly with their joint business venture. Hollis' story intrigued me the most with her troubled son and her clearly tense relationship with her husband.
Admittedly, I could have used a bit more character development and some clearer focus on the students but overall I liked how much of the story played out and there were some surprises that I didn't expect. The Pulse introduced me to Listfield and I'm excited to pick up more by her!! Reasons to Lie releases February 24, 2026.
January 24, 2026
An exclusive private school in Manhattan, privileged children, a school trip that goes horribly wrong - what a great set up for the type of thrillers I like best!
Told in multiple POV’s we meet three women who appear polished and put together on the outside but are navigating issues and harboring secrets behind closed doors. When their children go on a class trip to celebrate their junior year, the unthinkable happens. What transpires through the second half of this book proves that there is nothing these parents won’t do to protect their own.
Reasons To Lie had me fully invested from the first chapter, questioning everyone and honestly, I didn’t see the ending coming. Don’t just take my word for it; grab your copy and see for yourself on February 24th!
Told in multiple POV’s we meet three women who appear polished and put together on the outside but are navigating issues and harboring secrets behind closed doors. When their children go on a class trip to celebrate their junior year, the unthinkable happens. What transpires through the second half of this book proves that there is nothing these parents won’t do to protect their own.
Reasons To Lie had me fully invested from the first chapter, questioning everyone and honestly, I didn’t see the ending coming. Don’t just take my word for it; grab your copy and see for yourself on February 24th!
September 23, 2025
If you liked the premise of Gossip Girl & Pretty Little Liars but without the high school drama being the focus… then you will LOVE this book!
Emily Listfield did an incredible job writing this book from the perspective of three mothers with complicated relationships with their teenagers. Even so, they’d do anything for them! This book and each perspective had a gripping storyline, and the answer to “Who killed Amanda Carter?” will absolutely blow your mind!
I really enjoyed this author’s writing style, and I’m so glad I had the opportunity to read this ARC thanks to NetGalley!
Emily Listfield did an incredible job writing this book from the perspective of three mothers with complicated relationships with their teenagers. Even so, they’d do anything for them! This book and each perspective had a gripping storyline, and the answer to “Who killed Amanda Carter?” will absolutely blow your mind!
I really enjoyed this author’s writing style, and I’m so glad I had the opportunity to read this ARC thanks to NetGalley!
September 23, 2025
First of all, I devoured this book within hours of starting it. That doesn’t happen often for me…
A mystery, psychological suspense set within a NYC prep school? Sign me up. The story follows the friendships of three mothers (Abby, Kara, and Hollis) and their children. You’re brought into the lives of their complicated relationships with their children and how they intertwine with one another.
While some twists were predictable, the majority of the storyline kept me guessing until the very end.
If you’re one for a good mystery read, definitely add this to your TBR!
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for the arc read in exchange for an honest review!
A mystery, psychological suspense set within a NYC prep school? Sign me up. The story follows the friendships of three mothers (Abby, Kara, and Hollis) and their children. You’re brought into the lives of their complicated relationships with their children and how they intertwine with one another.
While some twists were predictable, the majority of the storyline kept me guessing until the very end.
If you’re one for a good mystery read, definitely add this to your TBR!
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for the arc read in exchange for an honest review!
December 7, 2025
The threads in this story were so intricately woven it was like a coven of cats wound them countless times around chair legs. I’d follow one strand only to be led to another and yet another.
I did surmise a couple parts of the plot correctly but there were many surprises in store.
There are many reasons for the characters in this book to lie and many of them tell whoppers!
The truth fractures friendships and challenges the boundaries of veracity.
The question is to what extent does the truth need to be known?
Thanks NetGalley, Thomas Mercer for the advance copy.
I did surmise a couple parts of the plot correctly but there were many surprises in store.
There are many reasons for the characters in this book to lie and many of them tell whoppers!
The truth fractures friendships and challenges the boundaries of veracity.
The question is to what extent does the truth need to be known?
Thanks NetGalley, Thomas Mercer for the advance copy.
October 4, 2025
Uncorrected proof from Netgalley - publishing date 24 February 2026
If you like books that take place in New York and center an elite school, this is the thriller for you. Was it the best thing I ever read? No, but I did like it. For me personally expectations around thrillers aren’t that high, I mainly read them for a quick fix/escape and this book delivered just that.
If you like books that take place in New York and center an elite school, this is the thriller for you. Was it the best thing I ever read? No, but I did like it. For me personally expectations around thrillers aren’t that high, I mainly read them for a quick fix/escape and this book delivered just that.
September 21, 2025
Short and sweet, I easily finished this novel within a few hours of picking it up today.
Set within the preppy halls of a prestigious NYC private school, this focuses on the life of the mothers and their kids that are now taking classes within the school....
As you read though, the story behind Reasons to Lie becomes much more detailed than what it first seems like when you first begin. This isn't your typical "whodunit?'" but blends elements of that with a deep, rich emotional sort of tone that goes into exploring intimate topics such as deception, and how it can not only affect others, but affect oneself as well. The plot was well thought out, though some parts could've been cut shorter, and there did not have to be quite as many characters as was presented, but overall, Emily did a fantastic job as a whole.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer as well as Netgalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and the rest of my reviews can be found at: https://littlereapling.wixsite.com/fa....
Set within the preppy halls of a prestigious NYC private school, this focuses on the life of the mothers and their kids that are now taking classes within the school....
As you read though, the story behind Reasons to Lie becomes much more detailed than what it first seems like when you first begin. This isn't your typical "whodunit?'" but blends elements of that with a deep, rich emotional sort of tone that goes into exploring intimate topics such as deception, and how it can not only affect others, but affect oneself as well. The plot was well thought out, though some parts could've been cut shorter, and there did not have to be quite as many characters as was presented, but overall, Emily did a fantastic job as a whole.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer as well as Netgalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and the rest of my reviews can be found at: https://littlereapling.wixsite.com/fa....
December 28, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this thriller. I was interested in the lives of the mothers and their children. The writing was well done and had me turning the pages long after my bedtime.
The ending was surprising but made lots of sense.
This was my first book by this author but I’d definitely read more.
The ending was surprising but made lots of sense.
This was my first book by this author but I’d definitely read more.
October 1, 2025
Reasons To Lie was EVERYTHING. From the very first page, I was hooked and there was no turning back. Imagine stepping into the scandal-filled halls of an elite Manhattan private school, only to be thrown headfirst into the shocking murder of a 16-year-old on a class trip. 👀 Drama? Check. Secrets? Double check. Twists that keep you up way past your bedtime? Ohhh yes.
This book was sharp, exciting, and thought-provoking all at once. The writing? Impeccable. The pacing? Chef’s kiss. It had me flipping pages like my life depended on it. Honestly, it was entertaining until the very last word—and you better believe I gasped more than once.
If you love murder, mystery, and elite drama all wrapped up in one juicy package, this one is a must-read. Trust me, you won’t be able to put it down.
Thank you NetGallery & Thomas & Mercer for the advanced copy. Out February 24, 2026
This book was sharp, exciting, and thought-provoking all at once. The writing? Impeccable. The pacing? Chef’s kiss. It had me flipping pages like my life depended on it. Honestly, it was entertaining until the very last word—and you better believe I gasped more than once.
If you love murder, mystery, and elite drama all wrapped up in one juicy package, this one is a must-read. Trust me, you won’t be able to put it down.
Thank you NetGallery & Thomas & Mercer for the advanced copy. Out February 24, 2026
December 9, 2025
At an elite school in New York, the junior class goes on a weekend trip every year. Only on the trip the year, some one gets killed. The kids aren't telling the truth. The parents are keeping secrets.
This book was a great read. I loved the multiple points of view from the moms and watching all the lies unravel. That last twist was so good!!
This book was a great read. I loved the multiple points of view from the moms and watching all the lies unravel. That last twist was so good!!
November 17, 2025
It’s amazing how far people will go
To protect their family and friends.
I understand, but I would not do anything illegal, but I have not been put in that situation.
Dearborn Academy a private schools has privileged students. On a friend trip a student does and the action never stops.
The characters are not perfect as lead to believe. Their pasts, secrets and more will define them and come out as this story unravels.
The Thriller Book Lovers THE PULSE is excited to read this one.
To protect their family and friends.
I understand, but I would not do anything illegal, but I have not been put in that situation.
Dearborn Academy a private schools has privileged students. On a friend trip a student does and the action never stops.
The characters are not perfect as lead to believe. Their pasts, secrets and more will define them and come out as this story unravels.
The Thriller Book Lovers THE PULSE is excited to read this one.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was given an advance reader copy of Reason to Lie by NetGalley, and this was my first time reading anything by Emily Listfield. I’m happy to say it was the best introduction for me to her writing. The novel immediately pulled me into a community shaken by tragedy and suspicion after a student dies under unsettling circumstances during a school field trip. The tension is steady, the pacing very sharp, and this author knows just how much to reveal and withhold which kept me turning the pages into the dead of the night! At the center of the mystery is Ethan, the student whose name hovers over the narrative as the one who may have been involved in the death. Ethan’s character arc is one of the novel’s strongest elements. The author begins with him as a closed off, tightly wound teen whose instinct is to retreat whenever adults press him for answers. But as the story unfolds, layers of vulnerability, confusion, fear, and misplaced loyalty begin to surface. Ethan transforms from a guarded suspect into a deeply complex kid navigating intense peer pressures, fractured friendships, and secrets that are far too heavy for someone his age. His reactions go between defiance and fear where one moment pushing people away and then the next moment revealing glimpses of the emotional strain weighing him down. As more and more information comes to light, the question becomes not just whether Ethan is guilty, but what he is protecting and why. This evolution adds meaningful emotional depth, turning the novel from a straightforward mystery into a psychological portrait of a teen caught in circumstances spiraling way beyond his control. Of course, the plot itself is filled with twists that keep the tension alive. Every revelation complicates the truth rather than clarifying it, and as each character’s hidden motives and histories emerge, the story becomes a gripping examination of how easily truth can be distorted or buried. What makes Reason to Lie even more striking is its unfortunate timeliness. Recently, a Las Vegas teen named Vaughn Griffith, age 15 was charged in adult court after allegedly recording the sexual assault of another student during a school field trip, a case that has drawn national attention and sparked fresh discussion about student safety and accountability. The disturbing real world details echo the novel’s themes about how vulnerable teens are in group dynamics, how quickly violence can escalate, and how institutions struggle to respond when tragedy unfolds among students. I will definitely read more books by the author and highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to go down this disturbing rabbit hole! #NETGALLEY #AREASONTOLIE
November 7, 2025
📚Reasons to Lie
✍🏻Emily Listfield
Blurb:
When a private school field trip ends with one student dead, three mothers must face the darkest secrets lurking beneath their lifestyles, their friendships, their children, and themselves.
In the privileged world of Manhattan’s elite Dearborn Academy, three mothers—Abby, Kara, and Hollis—form an unlikely bond. Until a student is murdered on a class trip their teenagers attended, and every parent has something to hide.
Artistic single mom Abby and career-challenged Kara have always felt like outsiders among Dearborn’s rich, powerful families. When glamorous, enigmatic Hollis arrives with her son and a picture-perfect life, they take her under their wing—despite nagging doubts about her past.
Their friendship only deepens after tragedy strikes on a school retreat. But as a determined detective edges closer to the truth of what happened in the woods that night, cracks begin to show—in their stories, their alliances, and their trust.
Each woman is keeping secrets. And so are their children.
Now, with everything at stake, Abby, Kara, and Hollis must decide how far they’ll go to protect their families—even if it means turning on one another.
Because everyone has a reason to lie.
And someone will stop at nothing to keep the truth buried.
My Thoughts:
If you liked the premise of Gossip Girl & Pretty Little Liars but without the high school drama being the focus… then you will LOVE this book!
Centered around three mothers who are navigating the complexities of raising teenagers, the novel offers a candid exploration of motherhood, identity, and the consequences of choices made under pressure.
•
What resonated most with me was the portrayal of parenting through the distinct lenses of Abby, Kara, and Hollis. As a mother of two teenagers myself, I found their experiences deeply relatable. The author skillfully captures the tension between societal expectations and personal weakness, reminding us that perfection in motherhood is just a myth—and that mistakes, although inevitable, can be life changing. While some twists were predictable, the majority of the storyline kept me guessing until the very end.
Thanks NetGalley, Thomas&Mercer and Author Emily Listfield for the complimentary copy of "Reasons to Lie" I am l having my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#Thomas&Mercer
#ReasonstoLie
#EmilyListfield
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✍🏻Emily Listfield
Blurb:
When a private school field trip ends with one student dead, three mothers must face the darkest secrets lurking beneath their lifestyles, their friendships, their children, and themselves.
In the privileged world of Manhattan’s elite Dearborn Academy, three mothers—Abby, Kara, and Hollis—form an unlikely bond. Until a student is murdered on a class trip their teenagers attended, and every parent has something to hide.
Artistic single mom Abby and career-challenged Kara have always felt like outsiders among Dearborn’s rich, powerful families. When glamorous, enigmatic Hollis arrives with her son and a picture-perfect life, they take her under their wing—despite nagging doubts about her past.
Their friendship only deepens after tragedy strikes on a school retreat. But as a determined detective edges closer to the truth of what happened in the woods that night, cracks begin to show—in their stories, their alliances, and their trust.
Each woman is keeping secrets. And so are their children.
Now, with everything at stake, Abby, Kara, and Hollis must decide how far they’ll go to protect their families—even if it means turning on one another.
Because everyone has a reason to lie.
And someone will stop at nothing to keep the truth buried.
My Thoughts:
If you liked the premise of Gossip Girl & Pretty Little Liars but without the high school drama being the focus… then you will LOVE this book!
Centered around three mothers who are navigating the complexities of raising teenagers, the novel offers a candid exploration of motherhood, identity, and the consequences of choices made under pressure.
•
What resonated most with me was the portrayal of parenting through the distinct lenses of Abby, Kara, and Hollis. As a mother of two teenagers myself, I found their experiences deeply relatable. The author skillfully captures the tension between societal expectations and personal weakness, reminding us that perfection in motherhood is just a myth—and that mistakes, although inevitable, can be life changing. While some twists were predictable, the majority of the storyline kept me guessing until the very end.
Thanks NetGalley, Thomas&Mercer and Author Emily Listfield for the complimentary copy of "Reasons to Lie" I am l having my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#Thomas&Mercer
#ReasonstoLie
#EmilyListfield
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 16, 2025
Oh my gosh... someone please hand me a list of every book Emily Listfield has ever written because I clearly need them all. This was my first book by her, and I could not stop reading it. It follows three moms - Abby, Kara, and Hollis - each navigating life at the elite Dearborn Academy in Manhattan. They take turns giving us a peek inside the pressure cooker of raising teens in a world where image is everything and secrets run deep. And when a student dies on a school trip, every single person suddenly looks like they have something to hide.
The story unfolds in two parts - before the murder and after the murder. Part one lets us really settle into the lives of these women. They are all hiding things. They are all struggling with parenting in different ways. They are all trying to hold themselves together while juggling messy relationships, messy kids, and messy emotions. Basically... they are all the rest of us, just in nicer zip codes.
Then the murder happens, and the entire tone shifts. Suspicion clouds everything. The friendships between these moms get shakier by the chapter, and Listfield does an amazing job showing how quickly loyalty can turn when fear gets involved. The way she balanced their flaws, strengths, mistakes, and defenses made them feel very real to me. I loved that none of them were perfect. They were messy, layered, and very human.
This is marketed as a thriller, but I think it sits more comfortably in the murder mystery category. It has suspense for sure, but the real story comes from watching how people behave when the truth becomes dangerous. It’s about how far someone will go to protect their child, their reputation, or the version of themselves they want the world to see.
I devoured this one. It kept me guessing, kept me suspicious of everyone, and made me think about the complicated friendships we build around our kids. Highly recommend grabbing this when it releases.
Thank you, NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer, for the ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.
The story unfolds in two parts - before the murder and after the murder. Part one lets us really settle into the lives of these women. They are all hiding things. They are all struggling with parenting in different ways. They are all trying to hold themselves together while juggling messy relationships, messy kids, and messy emotions. Basically... they are all the rest of us, just in nicer zip codes.
Then the murder happens, and the entire tone shifts. Suspicion clouds everything. The friendships between these moms get shakier by the chapter, and Listfield does an amazing job showing how quickly loyalty can turn when fear gets involved. The way she balanced their flaws, strengths, mistakes, and defenses made them feel very real to me. I loved that none of them were perfect. They were messy, layered, and very human.
This is marketed as a thriller, but I think it sits more comfortably in the murder mystery category. It has suspense for sure, but the real story comes from watching how people behave when the truth becomes dangerous. It’s about how far someone will go to protect their child, their reputation, or the version of themselves they want the world to see.
I devoured this one. It kept me guessing, kept me suspicious of everyone, and made me think about the complicated friendships we build around our kids. Highly recommend grabbing this when it releases.
Thank you, NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer, for the ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.
October 6, 2025
I enjoyed this book, in spite of the wild case of deja vu it gave me. I am 99% sure that the author has based the fictional Dearborn academy on the school I attended on Manhattan's Upper East Side. (I'm not saying someone was killed on one of our class trips, but too many other details were so familiar to me, even the name of the location of the class trip in the book was a nudge to the location of our class trips, and the candle lighting ceremony was the final too obvious nod. Hopefully no one feels litigious)
This book is less of a who done it, though you are in the dark until nearly the end, but more of a look at female friendships and at the relationships parents have with their children when they start to have their own relationships.
At some points in your life, your friends are your everything, but when you have children that changes. What if your friend's child, lies to or about your child? What if your children are behaving badly together? What if you haven't told your friends everything there is to know about your child? What do you do, when the little person who wouldn't leave your side now wants nothing to do with you. How do you communicate with someone who slams doors in your face and speaks in monosyllabic responses?
Even before the weekend trip to Forest Valley, moms Kara, Abby and Hollis were struggling with their teen children asserting their independence in not great ways. After the trip is cut short due to tragedy, parental anxiety grows because their children are being questioned by the police, the school is circling the wagons, and the teens are all visibly struggling but not sharing with their parents.
We also see what money and power do in the hands of those that would manipulate the world with it and what those who are surrounded by money and power but don't have any of their own, do in response. Can children growing up in this atmosphere have any integrity? Can anyone come out okay in the end?
This book is less of a who done it, though you are in the dark until nearly the end, but more of a look at female friendships and at the relationships parents have with their children when they start to have their own relationships.
At some points in your life, your friends are your everything, but when you have children that changes. What if your friend's child, lies to or about your child? What if your children are behaving badly together? What if you haven't told your friends everything there is to know about your child? What do you do, when the little person who wouldn't leave your side now wants nothing to do with you. How do you communicate with someone who slams doors in your face and speaks in monosyllabic responses?
Even before the weekend trip to Forest Valley, moms Kara, Abby and Hollis were struggling with their teen children asserting their independence in not great ways. After the trip is cut short due to tragedy, parental anxiety grows because their children are being questioned by the police, the school is circling the wagons, and the teens are all visibly struggling but not sharing with their parents.
We also see what money and power do in the hands of those that would manipulate the world with it and what those who are surrounded by money and power but don't have any of their own, do in response. Can children growing up in this atmosphere have any integrity? Can anyone come out okay in the end?
October 13, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC read. This was my 1st read by Emily Listfield.
This story is one that encompasses the strength of friendship, surviving secrets, and adolescent experiences.
Abby is a single mother of one daughter, Rachel. Together they have lived along with Rachel always believing her mother never knew who her father was. Her mother claims it was a one night rendezvous on a trip. Is this entirely true?
Kara is married to Peter and they have two daughters Olivia and Maya. Peter wants to leave the city and start fresh with his family but Kara isnt ready for the big of a leap yet. After all, her best friend Abby lives here and they have plans to make thier app a profitable investment. Can thier marriage survive deception and disagreements?
Hollis is married to Jordan, a self serving man who prides image over everything. Thier son Daniel is a bit of a trouble maker but nothing a little money can't hide.
When Hollis and her family transfer thier son to Dearborn Academy all three families lives seem to intertwine in many ways. Some of them are good but some of the interactions are life changing.
Daniel, Olivia, and Rachel are all Juniors attending Dearborn. While the Junior class is on thier annual trip something happens that will change the trajectory of all the lives involved in a deadly situation.
Lies will be told to save and protect those these adolescents love and care deeply about. Trying to hide the truth of the situation and things from people's past only keeps them safe for so long.
What will happen when the truth comes out? Lies can only cover things for so long. Eventually they catch up with you.
This story is one that encompasses the strength of friendship, surviving secrets, and adolescent experiences.
Abby is a single mother of one daughter, Rachel. Together they have lived along with Rachel always believing her mother never knew who her father was. Her mother claims it was a one night rendezvous on a trip. Is this entirely true?
Kara is married to Peter and they have two daughters Olivia and Maya. Peter wants to leave the city and start fresh with his family but Kara isnt ready for the big of a leap yet. After all, her best friend Abby lives here and they have plans to make thier app a profitable investment. Can thier marriage survive deception and disagreements?
Hollis is married to Jordan, a self serving man who prides image over everything. Thier son Daniel is a bit of a trouble maker but nothing a little money can't hide.
When Hollis and her family transfer thier son to Dearborn Academy all three families lives seem to intertwine in many ways. Some of them are good but some of the interactions are life changing.
Daniel, Olivia, and Rachel are all Juniors attending Dearborn. While the Junior class is on thier annual trip something happens that will change the trajectory of all the lives involved in a deadly situation.
Lies will be told to save and protect those these adolescents love and care deeply about. Trying to hide the truth of the situation and things from people's past only keeps them safe for so long.
What will happen when the truth comes out? Lies can only cover things for so long. Eventually they catch up with you.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A tragedy on a school trip shatters the polished world of an elite Manhattan academy, pulling three very different mothers into a storm of suspicion and buried truths. What begins as a story about friendship among outsiders, Abby, Kara, and Hollis quickly becomes a tense unravelling of the secrets they’ve each worked hard to hide. As the investigation into a student’s death intensifies, the glossy façade of privilege gives way to fear, fractured loyalties, and the uncomfortable realization that every parent has something to lose.
The novel thrives on its layered character work, exploring motherhood, identity, and the moral compromises people make when their children are involved. Each woman’s perspective adds another thread to the mystery, revealing complicated pasts, shifting alliances, and the emotional fallout of raising teenagers in a world obsessed with appearances. The author builds tension with precision, small pieces of information dropped at just the right moments, subtle clues that twist your assumptions, and a steady sense that danger is closing in from all sides.
By the time the truth begins to surface, the story has transformed into a gripping examination of how far people will go to protect the ones they love, and themselves. Lies stack upon lies, friendships buckle under pressure, and the final revelations land with the force of a long held breath finally released. It’s a sharp, absorbing thriller that blends psychological depth with page turning suspense, perfect for readers who enjoy secrets, shifting dynamics, and a plot that refuses to stay still..
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
The novel thrives on its layered character work, exploring motherhood, identity, and the moral compromises people make when their children are involved. Each woman’s perspective adds another thread to the mystery, revealing complicated pasts, shifting alliances, and the emotional fallout of raising teenagers in a world obsessed with appearances. The author builds tension with precision, small pieces of information dropped at just the right moments, subtle clues that twist your assumptions, and a steady sense that danger is closing in from all sides.
By the time the truth begins to surface, the story has transformed into a gripping examination of how far people will go to protect the ones they love, and themselves. Lies stack upon lies, friendships buckle under pressure, and the final revelations land with the force of a long held breath finally released. It’s a sharp, absorbing thriller that blends psychological depth with page turning suspense, perfect for readers who enjoy secrets, shifting dynamics, and a plot that refuses to stay still..
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
🎧 Audio Review: The audio was enjoyable to listen to, but I feel this story would be a good one to read in any format!
📝 Story Review: Took me awhile to keep the different characters straight in my mind and whose family which kid belonged to, but once I had that nailed down, the story flowed well.
A school trip goes awry when a student dies. Now their stories are being triple checked for discrepancies and parents are trying to protect their children from being implicated in something so atrocious. But when everyone is keeping secrets, it’s hard to know who to believe.
I enjoyed how the first half of this story led you up to the time of the murder, letting you get to know the families and how their dynamic worked so you could get a feel for everyone beforehand. Then the second half was seeing who had alibis and who didn’t, who was lying and who wasn’t, why they were lying, etc. - I had something totally different in my mind than what happened, so the ‘who dunnit’ reveal took me by complete surprise! Overall, I really enjoyed this one and it sure kept me guessing!
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.5/5
Tropes 👇
- Unreliable narrators
- Private school
- Teenage drama
- Marital drama
- Small list of suspects
- Keeps you guessing!
CW’s 👇
- Mention of teacher/student relations
- Mention of parent with Schizophrenia
- Mention of drug use
- Brief scene of self-harm
Audio Release Date: February 24, 2026
Audio Run Time: 9 hrs, 40 mins
Narrated By: Abigail Reno; Carly Robins; Alex Picard.
Genre: Thriller
POV: Multi; First Person.
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for this ALC in return for my honest review.
📝 Story Review: Took me awhile to keep the different characters straight in my mind and whose family which kid belonged to, but once I had that nailed down, the story flowed well.
A school trip goes awry when a student dies. Now their stories are being triple checked for discrepancies and parents are trying to protect their children from being implicated in something so atrocious. But when everyone is keeping secrets, it’s hard to know who to believe.
I enjoyed how the first half of this story led you up to the time of the murder, letting you get to know the families and how their dynamic worked so you could get a feel for everyone beforehand. Then the second half was seeing who had alibis and who didn’t, who was lying and who wasn’t, why they were lying, etc. - I had something totally different in my mind than what happened, so the ‘who dunnit’ reveal took me by complete surprise! Overall, I really enjoyed this one and it sure kept me guessing!
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.5/5
Tropes 👇
- Unreliable narrators
- Private school
- Teenage drama
- Marital drama
- Small list of suspects
- Keeps you guessing!
CW’s 👇
- Mention of teacher/student relations
- Mention of parent with Schizophrenia
- Mention of drug use
- Brief scene of self-harm
Audio Release Date: February 24, 2026
Audio Run Time: 9 hrs, 40 mins
Narrated By: Abigail Reno; Carly Robins; Alex Picard.
Genre: Thriller
POV: Multi; First Person.
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for this ALC in return for my honest review.
September 19, 2025
Dark secrets, fractured friendships, and the price of privilege.
This book pulled me in right from the opening student’s tragic death on a school trip sets off a ripple effect through the lives of three mothers at the elite Dearborn Academy. From there, the story digs deep into loyalty, guilt, and the masks people wear to protect themselves and their families.
This isn’t just about solving a mystery. The suspense is there, but the heart of the story is how these women deal with truth, lies, and the fallout of choices that can’t be undone. It’s about how far people will go to protect their children, and themselves, even when it means betraying others.
What really worked for me were the characters. Abby, Kara, and Hollis are flawed, complex, and at times frustrating, but that’s what made them feel so real. Their tangled relationships, shifting loyalties, and buried secrets gave the book its emotional punch. I also loved the Manhattan private school backdrop, all that wealth, competition, and judgment simmering just beneath the polished surface added another layer of tension.
A few twists I did see coming, and the pacing dipped here and there, but overall, this was a sharp, compelling read that kept me questioning motives right up to the end. If you enjoy psychological dramas with messy characters and a sharp social commentary edge, this one deserves a spot on your list.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This book pulled me in right from the opening student’s tragic death on a school trip sets off a ripple effect through the lives of three mothers at the elite Dearborn Academy. From there, the story digs deep into loyalty, guilt, and the masks people wear to protect themselves and their families.
This isn’t just about solving a mystery. The suspense is there, but the heart of the story is how these women deal with truth, lies, and the fallout of choices that can’t be undone. It’s about how far people will go to protect their children, and themselves, even when it means betraying others.
What really worked for me were the characters. Abby, Kara, and Hollis are flawed, complex, and at times frustrating, but that’s what made them feel so real. Their tangled relationships, shifting loyalties, and buried secrets gave the book its emotional punch. I also loved the Manhattan private school backdrop, all that wealth, competition, and judgment simmering just beneath the polished surface added another layer of tension.
A few twists I did see coming, and the pacing dipped here and there, but overall, this was a sharp, compelling read that kept me questioning motives right up to the end. If you enjoy psychological dramas with messy characters and a sharp social commentary edge, this one deserves a spot on your list.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
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