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A Lie for a Lie
A deadly game of cat and mouse unfolds when a housewife with a secret life takes on a tech billionaire with secrets darker than her own . . . from the author of How I'll Kill You.
Margaux leads a double life that would make most people dizzy. By day, she's a seemingly ordinary interior decorator with a picture-perfect marriage. By night, she works for a mysterious employer known only as Mr. X. Her infiltrating the lives of dangerous targets, gaining their trust, and ultimately exposing their crimes.
Her latest Unraveling the secret life of Bertram Casimir, a billionaire tech CEO whose career is as mysterious as his past. His sister claims he stole her app to build his fortune. Not only that, his girlfriend may or may not have recently gone missing.
He sees through her carefully constructed facade, matching her move for move. As the lines between hunter and prey blur, Margaux finds herself unexpectedly drawn to Bertram. They share more than she'd like to admit—a dangerous intelligence, a taste for high-stakes manipulation. When the evidence begins to shift, threatening to unravel everything she knows, Margaux realizes this is far more than just another job.
Her secrets—and her life—are now on the line. One lie remains, and it might just save her.
Margaux leads a double life that would make most people dizzy. By day, she's a seemingly ordinary interior decorator with a picture-perfect marriage. By night, she works for a mysterious employer known only as Mr. X. Her infiltrating the lives of dangerous targets, gaining their trust, and ultimately exposing their crimes.
Her latest Unraveling the secret life of Bertram Casimir, a billionaire tech CEO whose career is as mysterious as his past. His sister claims he stole her app to build his fortune. Not only that, his girlfriend may or may not have recently gone missing.
He sees through her carefully constructed facade, matching her move for move. As the lines between hunter and prey blur, Margaux finds herself unexpectedly drawn to Bertram. They share more than she'd like to admit—a dangerous intelligence, a taste for high-stakes manipulation. When the evidence begins to shift, threatening to unravel everything she knows, Margaux realizes this is far more than just another job.
Her secrets—and her life—are now on the line. One lie remains, and it might just save her.
320 pages, Paperback
First published March 10, 2026
12 people are currently reading
10607 people want to read
About the author
Ren DeStefano
2 books317 followersRen DeStefano lives in Connecticut, where she was born and raised. When she’s not writing thrillers, she’s listening to true crime podcasts and crocheting way too many blankets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
December 10, 2025
I’ve lost my zest for reviewing, but somehow I’m still lucky enough to receive some reader copies, this one had a house on the cover and my belly is all full of gyro meat and hummus, so let’s give her a rip!
I snagged a copy of this upcoming release because I REALLY dug How I’ll Kill You. Unfortunately, I thought this one was just okay. The story here is about Margeaux who works as an interior decorator by day, but a sleuth on the side. Her latest job quickly morphs from a pretty meh case of a stolen app and the money that came from it to a potential murder mystery. I knew right away what was going on with the girlfriend and “Mr. X” was no big shocker either, but my biggest problems were (1) I HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATE the hinting of “some super bad thing happened in the past, but I’m going to never talk about it for eternity while constantly reminding you readers it still exists” (and said reveal being so lackluster) and also this one sets itself up as maybe becoming a series and your girl ain’t got no time for more than one – especially when it comes to characters I didn’t like.
2.5 Stars
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I snagged a copy of this upcoming release because I REALLY dug How I’ll Kill You. Unfortunately, I thought this one was just okay. The story here is about Margeaux who works as an interior decorator by day, but a sleuth on the side. Her latest job quickly morphs from a pretty meh case of a stolen app and the money that came from it to a potential murder mystery. I knew right away what was going on with the girlfriend and “Mr. X” was no big shocker either, but my biggest problems were (1) I HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATE the hinting of “some super bad thing happened in the past, but I’m going to never talk about it for eternity while constantly reminding you readers it still exists” (and said reveal being so lackluster) and also this one sets itself up as maybe becoming a series and your girl ain’t got no time for more than one – especially when it comes to characters I didn’t like.
2.5 Stars
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The cover really caught my eye, and I thoroughly enjoyed this engaging read! I can’t wait for the sequel—fingers crossed there will be one!
Margaux leads a dual life as an interior decorator by day and an undercover operative for a mysterious employer by night. Her latest assignment involves exposing billionaire tech CEO Bertram Casimir, who is accused by his sister of stealing her app and is connected to a missing girlfriend. As Margaux infiltrates his world, she finds herself entangled in a web of manipulation and danger, drawn to Bertram's intelligence. When evidence begins to shift, she realizes her life is at stake, and her secrets may be the key to her survival.
We’re introduced to Margaux, Waylan, Mr. X, and Elodie, and what a thrilling ride it is! I love the playful banter and the blossoming friendships. The characters are well-developed, and to fully understand Margaux and Mr. X, we jump around the timeline a bit, but it all fits together perfectly. We also meet Bertram and his sister, and once the story kicks off, it grabs you and doesn't let go until the very end!
This book is a great read, featuring strong female characters who navigate multiple roles effectively. The writing flows smoothly, making it hard to put down. I was eager to see what adventures these characters would tackle next! At one point, I found myself questioning who I could trust as the plot thickened. Suddenly, everyone was pointing fingers at Waylan—oh, but I won't give any spoilers!
This is the perfect read for anyone who enjoys a fast-paced, fun story filled with cat-and-mouse scenarios and female spies. The writing is rich in detail, making everything feel realistic and believable, which really enhances the narrative. If you’re a fan of the Finlay Donovan or Stephanie Plum series, this book is definitely for you. I absolutely loved the writing style—what a fantastic cozy thriller! Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to check on my mother-in-law since she’s out late quite a bit! She could be a spy! Ha!
Thank you, Berkley Publishing Group and Netgalley, for the DRC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Margaux leads a dual life as an interior decorator by day and an undercover operative for a mysterious employer by night. Her latest assignment involves exposing billionaire tech CEO Bertram Casimir, who is accused by his sister of stealing her app and is connected to a missing girlfriend. As Margaux infiltrates his world, she finds herself entangled in a web of manipulation and danger, drawn to Bertram's intelligence. When evidence begins to shift, she realizes her life is at stake, and her secrets may be the key to her survival.
We’re introduced to Margaux, Waylan, Mr. X, and Elodie, and what a thrilling ride it is! I love the playful banter and the blossoming friendships. The characters are well-developed, and to fully understand Margaux and Mr. X, we jump around the timeline a bit, but it all fits together perfectly. We also meet Bertram and his sister, and once the story kicks off, it grabs you and doesn't let go until the very end!
This book is a great read, featuring strong female characters who navigate multiple roles effectively. The writing flows smoothly, making it hard to put down. I was eager to see what adventures these characters would tackle next! At one point, I found myself questioning who I could trust as the plot thickened. Suddenly, everyone was pointing fingers at Waylan—oh, but I won't give any spoilers!
This is the perfect read for anyone who enjoys a fast-paced, fun story filled with cat-and-mouse scenarios and female spies. The writing is rich in detail, making everything feel realistic and believable, which really enhances the narrative. If you’re a fan of the Finlay Donovan or Stephanie Plum series, this book is definitely for you. I absolutely loved the writing style—what a fantastic cozy thriller! Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to check on my mother-in-law since she’s out late quite a bit! She could be a spy! Ha!
Thank you, Berkley Publishing Group and Netgalley, for the DRC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 11, 2025
Excellent thriller with a strong mystery at the forefront surrounding family and familial secrets. This was well written, but what really drove this story was the cast of characters. Each one was so deliciously intriguing. I would love a second book with this family.
February 17, 2026
3.5⭐️
Arrggh!! I have such mixed feelings about this one. Why? Because while I was reading, I was completely entertained and propelled forward by a “secret” dangled in front of me like an overfilled balloon—stretching tighter and tighter, threatening to pop at any second. But then… wham. When the secret was finally revealed, instead of exploding with impact, it dropped like it had been filled with lead instead of air—and simply bounced.
To make matters worse, that secret was something that crossed my mind several times along the way, as it reminded me of a similar story I’d read or watched years ago. I figured out most of the twists fairly easily. That said, despite the underwhelming payoff, I genuinely enjoyed the journey getting there. Was it overly predictable? Not exactly—but seasoned thriller readers will likely have a similar experience of seeing the pieces fall into place ahead of time.
I ended up doing an immersion read using both the eARC and the audiobook, which I was really grateful for. It created a dynamic experience and helped keep me engaged. The audiobook narration by Madeline Maby was especially compelling—her sultry voice draws you in effortlessly. I also appreciated her male character voices: the shifts were subtle but distinct, making it easy to tell who was speaking. She narrates at a solid pace for 1x speed, though I listened mostly at 2x. You lose a bit of her inflection that way, but the performance still holds up well.
Because I was listening through the PRH Audio app and couldn’t quite match my natural reading speed, I sometimes paused the audio during high-intensity scenes so I could fully absorb the writing. Overall, I loved the flexibility of the immersion read, but if I had to recommend just one format, I’d go with print—it allowed the tension and details to land with more impact.
Final thoughts:
This was one of those books where the ride was more satisfying than the destination. Even though the central reveal fell flat for me, the buildup, atmosphere, and steady momentum kept me invested until the end. If you enjoy thrillers driven by suspense and emotional tension more than shocking twists, this will still be a worthwhile read—just don’t expect the balloon to pop as loudly as promised.
I am thankful to have received a complimentary eARC from Berkley Publishing via NetGalley and the ALC through PRH Audio Influencers, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
Arrggh!! I have such mixed feelings about this one. Why? Because while I was reading, I was completely entertained and propelled forward by a “secret” dangled in front of me like an overfilled balloon—stretching tighter and tighter, threatening to pop at any second. But then… wham. When the secret was finally revealed, instead of exploding with impact, it dropped like it had been filled with lead instead of air—and simply bounced.
To make matters worse, that secret was something that crossed my mind several times along the way, as it reminded me of a similar story I’d read or watched years ago. I figured out most of the twists fairly easily. That said, despite the underwhelming payoff, I genuinely enjoyed the journey getting there. Was it overly predictable? Not exactly—but seasoned thriller readers will likely have a similar experience of seeing the pieces fall into place ahead of time.
I ended up doing an immersion read using both the eARC and the audiobook, which I was really grateful for. It created a dynamic experience and helped keep me engaged. The audiobook narration by Madeline Maby was especially compelling—her sultry voice draws you in effortlessly. I also appreciated her male character voices: the shifts were subtle but distinct, making it easy to tell who was speaking. She narrates at a solid pace for 1x speed, though I listened mostly at 2x. You lose a bit of her inflection that way, but the performance still holds up well.
Because I was listening through the PRH Audio app and couldn’t quite match my natural reading speed, I sometimes paused the audio during high-intensity scenes so I could fully absorb the writing. Overall, I loved the flexibility of the immersion read, but if I had to recommend just one format, I’d go with print—it allowed the tension and details to land with more impact.
Final thoughts:
This was one of those books where the ride was more satisfying than the destination. Even though the central reveal fell flat for me, the buildup, atmosphere, and steady momentum kept me invested until the end. If you enjoy thrillers driven by suspense and emotional tension more than shocking twists, this will still be a worthwhile read—just don’t expect the balloon to pop as loudly as promised.
I am thankful to have received a complimentary eARC from Berkley Publishing via NetGalley and the ALC through PRH Audio Influencers, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
March 9, 2026
A Lie for a Lie was such a fun, fast paced thriller with a premise that immediately pulled me in. The concept of Margaux living a carefully constructed double life (by day she’s an interior decorator and devoted wife and mother, by night a covert operative infiltrating dangerous targets) made for a really engaging read. I loved the spy adjacent angle and the constant tension of watching her juggle two identities while trying to keep her personal life intact.
Yes, the premise leans a little far fetched at times, but honestly that’s part of the fun. The cat and mouse dynamic between Margaux and tech billionaire Bertram kept the story moving quickly, and I found myself flying through the pages to see who was actually telling the truth. There are plenty of secrets, past traumas, and shifting motivations that keep the reader guessing about who’s manipulating whom.
Margaux was a standout character for me. Her sarcastic humor added some levity to an otherwise tense story, and I appreciated the way she genuinely tried to balance her dangerous work with being a present wife and mother. That emotional push and pull gave the story a little extra depth. Overall, this was a twisty, entertaining thriller that doesn’t take itself too seriously and delivers a suspenseful ride full of secrets and drama.
February 11, 2026
3.25 stars - This felt like a very standard thriller, complete with the usual genre tropes and a slow peel-back of Margaux’s hidden past. The book clearly centers her secret backstory as the main draw, but I never found it quite interesting enough to fully anchor the story.
The case she’s working for her client never felt especially high-stakes, which muted some of the tension. A lot of the novel lives in Margaux’s carefully curated “fake” ordinary life, and those sections dragged for me. On their own, they didn’t feel strong enough without the criminal thread underneath.
That said, it’s still an engaging enough read. The climax held my attention, and even when things felt a little contrived, it remained a fun, quick thriller, as long as you don’t analyze it too closely.
I received this book as an eARC.
The case she’s working for her client never felt especially high-stakes, which muted some of the tension. A lot of the novel lives in Margaux’s carefully curated “fake” ordinary life, and those sections dragged for me. On their own, they didn’t feel strong enough without the criminal thread underneath.
That said, it’s still an engaging enough read. The climax held my attention, and even when things felt a little contrived, it remained a fun, quick thriller, as long as you don’t analyze it too closely.
I received this book as an eARC.
October 31, 2025
"We are all the tip of our own iceberg, with secrets that range from little white lies to crimes that can get us put away for life. And you can never truly be sure."
This is such a solid twisting tale of secrets, family, and overcoming. I love that we got to know Margeaux, Waylen, Elodie, and co. I would truly love if this were a series and I could read even MORE about their family. The middle got a touch stagnant, but honestly the plot movement was stellar: I could NOT look away, and DeStefano did a beautiful job painting a full picture of a thriller novel in my opinion. Even Mr. X was given a shot at humanity in this one, and I was here for that. Thanks so much to the author and Berkley Publishing Group for providing me with this eARC! All opinions are my own, and all quotes are not determined yet until publication date.
This is such a solid twisting tale of secrets, family, and overcoming. I love that we got to know Margeaux, Waylen, Elodie, and co. I would truly love if this were a series and I could read even MORE about their family. The middle got a touch stagnant, but honestly the plot movement was stellar: I could NOT look away, and DeStefano did a beautiful job painting a full picture of a thriller novel in my opinion. Even Mr. X was given a shot at humanity in this one, and I was here for that. Thanks so much to the author and Berkley Publishing Group for providing me with this eARC! All opinions are my own, and all quotes are not determined yet until publication date.
March 9, 2026
Margaux is not who she appears to be. By day, she's a mom, a wife, and an interior decorator... but the job she's passionate about is her work with Mr. X. She works in the shadows, infiltrating the lives of criminals and exposing their crimes, ensuring that they pay for what they've done. Her latest target is Bertram Casimir, a billionaire tech CEO. His sister claims she was the one who created the app that launched his career... oh, and that his girlfriend recently disappeared and that he was responsible. As Margaux begins to work, she finds herself under Bertram's spell...and if she's not careful, her own secrets may be exposed instead of his.
I was so excited to read this book! I really enjoyed How I'll Kill You and I couldn't wait to read my second Ren DeStefano thriller. Unfortunately, while DeStefano's debut novel was highly unique and twisty, A Lie For A Lie was not. The idea in itself was original: a vigilante who fell in love, became a PTO mom, and juggled her secret life with her family. The storyline itself was very straightforward. I guessed the plot twists long before they happened. Margaux's secret did not feel like the earth-shattering secret it was in her head throughout the book. Moreover, Margaux was supposed to be this accomplished vigilante, but she kind of acted like this was her first job.
What I did love was the writing style and the characters. I loved the relationships in this book... most of them at least. I loved Elodie and Collette and I loved each of their relationships with Margaux. The book was well-written. It was descriptive and flowed nicely. It was an easy read even though it tackled some tough topics. It was difficult for me to rate this book. My 3-star rating typically means the book wasn't for me but someone else will really enjoy it. That is accurate here. I'm not giving up on Ren DeStefano's books because she is very talented. This particular thriller was not for me. I'm a pretty dedicated thriller reader and I'm a big fan of plot twists. I love being blindsided and it's hard for me to love a book when there's no element of surprise. I do think that this is a great introduction to thrillers. Readers just dipping their toes into the pond will love this book. This one's a Reader's Choice. If you're like me and need those plot twists no one sees coming, you might want to spend your time with a different book, but if you're new to thrillers or don't mind a more obvious ending as long as the book's well written, you'll really love this book.
Note: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
I was so excited to read this book! I really enjoyed How I'll Kill You and I couldn't wait to read my second Ren DeStefano thriller. Unfortunately, while DeStefano's debut novel was highly unique and twisty, A Lie For A Lie was not. The idea in itself was original: a vigilante who fell in love, became a PTO mom, and juggled her secret life with her family. The storyline itself was very straightforward. I guessed the plot twists long before they happened. Margaux's secret did not feel like the earth-shattering secret it was in her head throughout the book. Moreover, Margaux was supposed to be this accomplished vigilante, but she kind of acted like this was her first job.
What I did love was the writing style and the characters. I loved the relationships in this book... most of them at least. I loved Elodie and Collette and I loved each of their relationships with Margaux. The book was well-written. It was descriptive and flowed nicely. It was an easy read even though it tackled some tough topics. It was difficult for me to rate this book. My 3-star rating typically means the book wasn't for me but someone else will really enjoy it. That is accurate here. I'm not giving up on Ren DeStefano's books because she is very talented. This particular thriller was not for me. I'm a pretty dedicated thriller reader and I'm a big fan of plot twists. I love being blindsided and it's hard for me to love a book when there's no element of surprise. I do think that this is a great introduction to thrillers. Readers just dipping their toes into the pond will love this book. This one's a Reader's Choice. If you're like me and need those plot twists no one sees coming, you might want to spend your time with a different book, but if you're new to thrillers or don't mind a more obvious ending as long as the book's well written, you'll really love this book.
Note: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
March 12, 2026
Double Lives and Deadly Games
Ren DeStefano’s A Lie for a Lie wastes no time throwing readers into the double life of Margaux, a suburban mother with a secret career as an undercover investigator. On the surface, Margaux is the picture of normalcy: she juggles motherhood and interior design with practiced ease. But behind closed doors, she’s locked in a high-stakes battle with a ruthless tech billionaire, and the line between her identities gets thinner with every chapter.
The plot crackles with tension from the first page. Margaux’s seemingly perfect life unravels as her assignment drags her into a cat-and-mouse game that threatens everything she’s built. The pacing is relentless; twists stack up, and the stakes keep rising, making it tough to put the book down.
Margaux herself is the novel’s beating heart: smart, complicated, and just flawed enough to feel real. Her struggle to keep her deception intact while shielding her loved ones gives the story its emotional punch. DeStefano delves into themes of loyalty, identity, and what we’ll risk for the people we love. The villain, a tech billionaire with a chillingly cold streak, ups the psychological ante, and their battle feels both personal and dangerous.
DeStefano’s writing is taut and immersive, pulling you inside Margaux’s head and ratcheting up the suspense with each chapter. While the prose can come across as a bit flat, the book’s overall energy and sharp plotting more than make up for any stylistic simplicity.
There are quibbles: a few side characters feel thin, and some plot twists require a generous suspension of disbelief. Veteran thriller fans might see certain surprises coming. Still, Margaux’s journey is so propulsive that these flaws fade into the background.
All told, A Lie for a Lie delivers exactly what you want from a psychological thriller: tension, secrets, and a protagonist you’ll root for even when her choices make you wince. If you like your suspense with a domestic edge and a heroine who’s anything but ordinary, this one’s worth your time.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ren DeStefano’s A Lie for a Lie wastes no time throwing readers into the double life of Margaux, a suburban mother with a secret career as an undercover investigator. On the surface, Margaux is the picture of normalcy: she juggles motherhood and interior design with practiced ease. But behind closed doors, she’s locked in a high-stakes battle with a ruthless tech billionaire, and the line between her identities gets thinner with every chapter.
The plot crackles with tension from the first page. Margaux’s seemingly perfect life unravels as her assignment drags her into a cat-and-mouse game that threatens everything she’s built. The pacing is relentless; twists stack up, and the stakes keep rising, making it tough to put the book down.
Margaux herself is the novel’s beating heart: smart, complicated, and just flawed enough to feel real. Her struggle to keep her deception intact while shielding her loved ones gives the story its emotional punch. DeStefano delves into themes of loyalty, identity, and what we’ll risk for the people we love. The villain, a tech billionaire with a chillingly cold streak, ups the psychological ante, and their battle feels both personal and dangerous.
DeStefano’s writing is taut and immersive, pulling you inside Margaux’s head and ratcheting up the suspense with each chapter. While the prose can come across as a bit flat, the book’s overall energy and sharp plotting more than make up for any stylistic simplicity.
There are quibbles: a few side characters feel thin, and some plot twists require a generous suspension of disbelief. Veteran thriller fans might see certain surprises coming. Still, Margaux’s journey is so propulsive that these flaws fade into the background.
All told, A Lie for a Lie delivers exactly what you want from a psychological thriller: tension, secrets, and a protagonist you’ll root for even when her choices make you wince. If you like your suspense with a domestic edge and a heroine who’s anything but ordinary, this one’s worth your time.
Rating: 3.5/5
September 15, 2025
𝐈𝐭'𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐩𝐢𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐚 𝐩𝐮𝐳𝐳𝐥𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐞. 𝐈𝐭'𝐬 𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐡, 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐡 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐨𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐜𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫.
The prologue to this book was absolutely gripping, and I knew right away this was going to be a worthy follow-up to HOW I'LL KILL YOU. Margaux leads a double life with a dizzying array of moving parts. By day, she's an interior decorator, loving wife, and doting mother. But by night, she's a female vigilante working for a mysterious employer known only as Mr. X. Her targets are chosen, and it's her job to infiltrate their lives, gain their trust, and expose their crimes, ensuring that justice is served.
Her latest target is Bertram Casimir, a billionaire tech CEO whose sister claims he stole her app to make his fortune. Even worse, his girlfriend recently went missing and any mention of her has been mysteriously scrubbed from the headlines. Unfortunately, Bertram is not like Margaux's other prey--he's whip-smart, cunning, and sees right through her. For the first time, Margaux finds herself stumbling in her role as predator. Lines begin to blur before they're abruptly removed altogether. Have the roles been reversed, or will one last lie reveal itself?
I loved the pacing and both Margaux's character development and backstory. This was one of those thrillers that has moments of dark humor to balance out some of the more grim elements. If you love the secret lives trope, you will find this to be a fun, action packed thriller that will catch you off guard more than once. Many thanks to Berkley Publishing for the early copy. Look for this one March 10, 2026.
The prologue to this book was absolutely gripping, and I knew right away this was going to be a worthy follow-up to HOW I'LL KILL YOU. Margaux leads a double life with a dizzying array of moving parts. By day, she's an interior decorator, loving wife, and doting mother. But by night, she's a female vigilante working for a mysterious employer known only as Mr. X. Her targets are chosen, and it's her job to infiltrate their lives, gain their trust, and expose their crimes, ensuring that justice is served.
Her latest target is Bertram Casimir, a billionaire tech CEO whose sister claims he stole her app to make his fortune. Even worse, his girlfriend recently went missing and any mention of her has been mysteriously scrubbed from the headlines. Unfortunately, Bertram is not like Margaux's other prey--he's whip-smart, cunning, and sees right through her. For the first time, Margaux finds herself stumbling in her role as predator. Lines begin to blur before they're abruptly removed altogether. Have the roles been reversed, or will one last lie reveal itself?
I loved the pacing and both Margaux's character development and backstory. This was one of those thrillers that has moments of dark humor to balance out some of the more grim elements. If you love the secret lives trope, you will find this to be a fun, action packed thriller that will catch you off guard more than once. Many thanks to Berkley Publishing for the early copy. Look for this one March 10, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
To look at Margaux you would never know that she leads a double life, one that has her moonlighting as a vigilante that brings criminals to justice at night while everyone around is safe at home and tucked into bed... but that's the life she leads, and she is darn good at it too. But her newest mark isn't like the others, he's good at what he does too, and he wants his secrets to stay hidden, and he'll go to great lengths to make it happen.
A Lie for a Lie is thrilling page-turner that will have you on the edge of your seat the whole way through. When Margaux is given her newest assignment she soon learns that he isn't like the others, he comes with a skill set she wasn't anticipating and he has the means to take her down... and she can't let that happen. Before long she feels like she is the criminal and he is the one that will bring her to justice, there is no line that this man will not cross to keep himself safe and his secrets safe, even if it means putting an end to Margaux.
From beginning to end this action-packed read will keep you on your toes, it's almost impossible to predict the ending to this one, but I dare you to try! I really enjoyed what I found between the pages here and I know you will to if you give it a chance...it's impossible to put down! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, via NetGalley request, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
A Lie for a Lie is thrilling page-turner that will have you on the edge of your seat the whole way through. When Margaux is given her newest assignment she soon learns that he isn't like the others, he comes with a skill set she wasn't anticipating and he has the means to take her down... and she can't let that happen. Before long she feels like she is the criminal and he is the one that will bring her to justice, there is no line that this man will not cross to keep himself safe and his secrets safe, even if it means putting an end to Margaux.
From beginning to end this action-packed read will keep you on your toes, it's almost impossible to predict the ending to this one, but I dare you to try! I really enjoyed what I found between the pages here and I know you will to if you give it a chance...it's impossible to put down! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, via NetGalley request, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Ren DeStefano, Berkley Publishing Group, and NetGalley for a copy of A Lie for a Lie in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely fell in love with the characters in this book — both the good and the bad. Each one felt distinct and memorable, and Mr. X, with his mysterious energy, had me completely hooked. Margaux and Elodi were standout characters for me, bringing personality, strength, and intrigue that made the story even more enjoyable.
The cover immediately drew me in, and thankfully the story delivered an equally engaging reading experience. While I went in expecting more of a psychological thriller, the book felt more like an espionage-style, sleuthing, cat-and-mouse mystery — and honestly, that worked in its favor. It was quick, entertaining, and incredibly easy to read, constantly making me want to turn the page.
Much of the story hints at a disruptive and shadowy past surrounding Margaux, and while the reveal wasn’t quite what I expected, it still provided satisfying answers to lingering questions rather than relying purely on shock value.
✨ Final Verdict: A fast, character-driven mystery packed with intrigue, charm, and just enough suspense to keep you hooked. Not quite the psychological thriller I expected, but an addictive and thoroughly enjoyable read that left me hoping this becomes a series — because I’m not ready to leave these characters behind.
I absolutely fell in love with the characters in this book — both the good and the bad. Each one felt distinct and memorable, and Mr. X, with his mysterious energy, had me completely hooked. Margaux and Elodi were standout characters for me, bringing personality, strength, and intrigue that made the story even more enjoyable.
The cover immediately drew me in, and thankfully the story delivered an equally engaging reading experience. While I went in expecting more of a psychological thriller, the book felt more like an espionage-style, sleuthing, cat-and-mouse mystery — and honestly, that worked in its favor. It was quick, entertaining, and incredibly easy to read, constantly making me want to turn the page.
Much of the story hints at a disruptive and shadowy past surrounding Margaux, and while the reveal wasn’t quite what I expected, it still provided satisfying answers to lingering questions rather than relying purely on shock value.
✨ Final Verdict: A fast, character-driven mystery packed with intrigue, charm, and just enough suspense to keep you hooked. Not quite the psychological thriller I expected, but an addictive and thoroughly enjoyable read that left me hoping this becomes a series — because I’m not ready to leave these characters behind.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Book Review 📖💍 #berkleypartner thank you so much @berkleypub for the free copy! #berkley
A Lie for a Lie
by Ren DeStefano
out Today!
Margaux lives a double life. By day, she’s a successful interior decorator with a seemingly perfect marriage. By night, she works for a mysterious employer known only as Mr. X, infiltrating the lives of dangerous targets to expose their crimes.
Her newest assignment is Bertram Casimir, a reclusive billionaire tech CEO accused by his sister of stealing her app—and whose girlfriend has recently gone missing. But Bertram quickly sees through Margaux’s carefully crafted persona, matching her every move.
As the lines between hunter and prey begin to blur, Margaux finds herself drawn to the very man she’s meant to expose. When the truth behind the case starts to unravel, she realizes this assignment may cost her far more than just the job. One final lie might be the only thing that can save her.
💍 My thoughts:
A double life, a mysterious billionaire, and secrets everywhere… this one had me hooked from the start. After reading and loving How I’ll Kill You, I knew I needed to get my hands on this new release from Ren DeStefano. Just like I expected, I absolutely devoured it. I really love this author’s writing style. It’s the kind that keeps you turning pages while slowly unraveling layers of secrets. Even though I’m not usually drawn to spy stories, this one completely worked for me. It was fast paced, engaging, and full of tension as the lines between truth and deception started to blur. If you enjoy twisty thrillers, morally gray characters, and stories packed with secrets and mind games, this is definitely a book to give a read. At this point I will be reading anything DeStafano writes! A Lie for a Lie is out TODAY 3/10/26!
Happy reading 📖💍🔍
A Lie for a Lie
by Ren DeStefano
out Today!
Margaux lives a double life. By day, she’s a successful interior decorator with a seemingly perfect marriage. By night, she works for a mysterious employer known only as Mr. X, infiltrating the lives of dangerous targets to expose their crimes.
Her newest assignment is Bertram Casimir, a reclusive billionaire tech CEO accused by his sister of stealing her app—and whose girlfriend has recently gone missing. But Bertram quickly sees through Margaux’s carefully crafted persona, matching her every move.
As the lines between hunter and prey begin to blur, Margaux finds herself drawn to the very man she’s meant to expose. When the truth behind the case starts to unravel, she realizes this assignment may cost her far more than just the job. One final lie might be the only thing that can save her.
💍 My thoughts:
A double life, a mysterious billionaire, and secrets everywhere… this one had me hooked from the start. After reading and loving How I’ll Kill You, I knew I needed to get my hands on this new release from Ren DeStefano. Just like I expected, I absolutely devoured it. I really love this author’s writing style. It’s the kind that keeps you turning pages while slowly unraveling layers of secrets. Even though I’m not usually drawn to spy stories, this one completely worked for me. It was fast paced, engaging, and full of tension as the lines between truth and deception started to blur. If you enjoy twisty thrillers, morally gray characters, and stories packed with secrets and mind games, this is definitely a book to give a read. At this point I will be reading anything DeStafano writes! A Lie for a Lie is out TODAY 3/10/26!
Happy reading 📖💍🔍
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ren DeStefano’s “A Lie for a Lie” got off to a strong start for me. In the beginning, it reminded me a lot of Ashley Elston’s “First Lie Wins” which I loved. Margaux is the main character and she’s living a double life. By day Margaux’s an interior decorator and by night she does jobs for an employer named Mr. X.
The jobs Margaux does for Mr. X involve exposing crimes and righting wrongs. Margaux is married and has one child, a daughter. She met her husband when Mr. X paired them up years before to work on a job together.
While Margaux’s husband knows about her second job, as well as Mr. X, he wants her to quit and focus on their family. He’s also worried about the risks she takes on during her jobs and her safety.
Margaux’s new assignment involves Bertram Casimir, a billionaire tech CEO. His sister has engaged Mr. X to prove Bertram stole her app that made him rich. She also claims he may have done something to his last girlfriend, who has been missing for months.
Mr. X has paired up Margaux and Elodie, a fellow mother of a girl at her daughter’s school. As Margaux and Elodie begin their assignment, I enjoyed the conversations and interactions they had with each other, as well as Bertram. Elodie came to probably be my favorite character in the whole book.
I thought the plot got a bit messy about midway through. I didn’t find Bertram to be as formidable as the description made him seem. I also had guessed the main twist early on. The ending was a bit open-ended for me, but things were mainly wrapped up.
Overall, I recommend this book. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my ARC.
The jobs Margaux does for Mr. X involve exposing crimes and righting wrongs. Margaux is married and has one child, a daughter. She met her husband when Mr. X paired them up years before to work on a job together.
While Margaux’s husband knows about her second job, as well as Mr. X, he wants her to quit and focus on their family. He’s also worried about the risks she takes on during her jobs and her safety.
Margaux’s new assignment involves Bertram Casimir, a billionaire tech CEO. His sister has engaged Mr. X to prove Bertram stole her app that made him rich. She also claims he may have done something to his last girlfriend, who has been missing for months.
Mr. X has paired up Margaux and Elodie, a fellow mother of a girl at her daughter’s school. As Margaux and Elodie begin their assignment, I enjoyed the conversations and interactions they had with each other, as well as Bertram. Elodie came to probably be my favorite character in the whole book.
I thought the plot got a bit messy about midway through. I didn’t find Bertram to be as formidable as the description made him seem. I also had guessed the main twist early on. The ending was a bit open-ended for me, but things were mainly wrapped up.
Overall, I recommend this book. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A LIE FOR A LIE was an engaging and twisty thriller. Margaux is leading a double life. By day, she's an interior decorator with a ten-year-old daughter and a devoted husband. By night, she's a vigilante working for the mysterious Mr. X to bring down criminals who got away with their crimes.
Her latest case has her investigating whether or not tech billionaire Bertram Casimir stole the app the made him his billions from his sister who didn't get any of the proceeds. But there is also a question about what happened to his latest girlfriend who seems to have disappeared.
Margaux is teamed up with Elodie whom she knows as the officious parking manager at her daughter's school. Elodie proves to be an unexpected partner with hidden depths and a desire to be Margaux's friend. Since Margaux has been living a life of lies since her childhood, she isn't quite sure what to do with a friend.
The case quickly gets complex. Bertram doesn't fit the mold of a man who'd stiff his sister or murder his fiancée. And their client is proving elusive and very shifty. Then Mr. X goes off the radar adding more stress to Margaux who is already dealing with a husband who wants her to give up her vigilantism.
Tensions build as does the danger before a satisfying resolution. I enjoyed this twisty thriller.
Her latest case has her investigating whether or not tech billionaire Bertram Casimir stole the app the made him his billions from his sister who didn't get any of the proceeds. But there is also a question about what happened to his latest girlfriend who seems to have disappeared.
Margaux is teamed up with Elodie whom she knows as the officious parking manager at her daughter's school. Elodie proves to be an unexpected partner with hidden depths and a desire to be Margaux's friend. Since Margaux has been living a life of lies since her childhood, she isn't quite sure what to do with a friend.
The case quickly gets complex. Bertram doesn't fit the mold of a man who'd stiff his sister or murder his fiancée. And their client is proving elusive and very shifty. Then Mr. X goes off the radar adding more stress to Margaux who is already dealing with a husband who wants her to give up her vigilantism.
Tensions build as does the danger before a satisfying resolution. I enjoyed this twisty thriller.
September 17, 2025
3.5/5
This felt like a unique take on a double life kind of story.
This follows a mother, she seems normal. She's an interior decorator and a have hands-on mother and wife. But she is also working for a mysterious person who goes by Mr. X. When she works for Mr. X, she has gets her targets and has to infiltrate their lives, exposing who they are (their crimes).
I was entertained by this, but I did want a bit more. I wanted a bit more oomph to the action and the characters.
There was always this looming feeling of there's something else going on, the other shoe is going to drop and that really kept me engaged, wanting to know what that feeling was and what was goin got be revealed.
The dynamics that rise up with her newest target add so much drama, catching both our FMC and the reader off-guard. I did wish that it went a little harder in that regard as well, I think that would pushed this up to a 4/5 stars, but I think plenty of people will think it's a 4/5 without any more oomph. I really do think that a lot of people will really enjoy this, I had a good and entertaining time. And that's really all that matters, entertainment!
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
This felt like a unique take on a double life kind of story.
This follows a mother, she seems normal. She's an interior decorator and a have hands-on mother and wife. But she is also working for a mysterious person who goes by Mr. X. When she works for Mr. X, she has gets her targets and has to infiltrate their lives, exposing who they are (their crimes).
I was entertained by this, but I did want a bit more. I wanted a bit more oomph to the action and the characters.
There was always this looming feeling of there's something else going on, the other shoe is going to drop and that really kept me engaged, wanting to know what that feeling was and what was goin got be revealed.
The dynamics that rise up with her newest target add so much drama, catching both our FMC and the reader off-guard. I did wish that it went a little harder in that regard as well, I think that would pushed this up to a 4/5 stars, but I think plenty of people will think it's a 4/5 without any more oomph. I really do think that a lot of people will really enjoy this, I had a good and entertaining time. And that's really all that matters, entertainment!
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
December 2, 2025
••• ARC REVIEW •••
📖 A Lie for a Lie by Ren DeStefano
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Do I recommend: I do!!
***Available March 10***
Ooh I loved this!! If you’re looking to add a solid thriller to your TBR - look no further than A Lie for a Lie!
Margaux is an interior designer by day and l something of a vigilante by night. Employed by the mysterious Mr. X, Margaux is assigned to expose billionaire Bertram Casimir for stealing his billion-dollar idea. Margaux is inexplicably drawn to Bertram, lines are blurred, and we don’t know who to trust (and neither does Margaux)!
Y’all, this was fun. A little bit Mr. and Mrs. Smith meets a less-obnoxious (and less-outlandish) Finlay Donovan with a hint of Charlie’s Angels? With some Law and Order on the side? Maybe?? Regardless of what it reminded me of - I loved the story, the writing, and the characters and was pulled in from the start. I couldn’t put this one down and it seeeeems like we are getting set up for a sequel (if not a series??) so I am absolutely thrilled (pun intended).
If you’re in the mood for a solid, twisty thriller, make sure you check this one out in March!
Huge thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
📖 A Lie for a Lie by Ren DeStefano
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Do I recommend: I do!!
***Available March 10***
Ooh I loved this!! If you’re looking to add a solid thriller to your TBR - look no further than A Lie for a Lie!
Margaux is an interior designer by day and l something of a vigilante by night. Employed by the mysterious Mr. X, Margaux is assigned to expose billionaire Bertram Casimir for stealing his billion-dollar idea. Margaux is inexplicably drawn to Bertram, lines are blurred, and we don’t know who to trust (and neither does Margaux)!
Y’all, this was fun. A little bit Mr. and Mrs. Smith meets a less-obnoxious (and less-outlandish) Finlay Donovan with a hint of Charlie’s Angels? With some Law and Order on the side? Maybe?? Regardless of what it reminded me of - I loved the story, the writing, and the characters and was pulled in from the start. I couldn’t put this one down and it seeeeems like we are getting set up for a sequel (if not a series??) so I am absolutely thrilled (pun intended).
If you’re in the mood for a solid, twisty thriller, make sure you check this one out in March!
Huge thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 10, 2026
***I received an ARC from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review
By day, Margaux is (to anyone who might be watching) an interior decorator, wife and mom of a daughter. However, her true employment is with a mysterious employer known only as Mr. X, infiltrating the lives of dangerous targets, gaining their trust, and ultimately exposing their crimes. Her latest assignment: Bertram Casimir, a billionaire tech CEO. His sister Erin is claiming that he stole her app in order to build his fortune . Bertram sees through Margaux’s ruse to get close to him, and begins to match her, move for move, like a chess game. Soon, it becomes blurred who is the hunter and who is the prey, as Margaux spills secrets about her past she has never told anyone....not even her husband.
This started out a little slow, but once I got into it, I couldn't put it down. As Margaux & Bertram kept circling each other, someone kept coming after them, presumably Bertram's elusive ex-fiance. There was a twist or two I didn't see coming, and the book ended on a cliffhanger, so there will have to be a sequel, which I am looking forward to. If you enjoy psychological thrillers, you should definitely check this out.
By day, Margaux is (to anyone who might be watching) an interior decorator, wife and mom of a daughter. However, her true employment is with a mysterious employer known only as Mr. X, infiltrating the lives of dangerous targets, gaining their trust, and ultimately exposing their crimes. Her latest assignment: Bertram Casimir, a billionaire tech CEO. His sister Erin is claiming that he stole her app in order to build his fortune . Bertram sees through Margaux’s ruse to get close to him, and begins to match her, move for move, like a chess game. Soon, it becomes blurred who is the hunter and who is the prey, as Margaux spills secrets about her past she has never told anyone....not even her husband.
This started out a little slow, but once I got into it, I couldn't put it down. As Margaux & Bertram kept circling each other, someone kept coming after them, presumably Bertram's elusive ex-fiance. There was a twist or two I didn't see coming, and the book ended on a cliffhanger, so there will have to be a sequel, which I am looking forward to. If you enjoy psychological thrillers, you should definitely check this out.
March 13, 2026
I was drawn in by the cover and the description. I love a good game of cat and mouse. This cat and mouse version was a little different than I was expecting. It was very caught up in making everyone seem like the suspect and a little less in the game itself. I would have liked a little more if that chess game. But I will say there were so many credible suspects with so many reasons it was them, that I stopped trying to figure it out and just watched it all unravel. Which is very unlike me.
The story is complex as there is a mystery of a backstory for Margaux and the case she is working to solve. It very much straddled the line of too much, but mostly stayed on the right side of the line.
I enjoyed the journey more that the ending in this one. For all the build up, the eventual reveal was underwhelming when compared to my expectations. But on the flip side the journey is the bulk of the book.
Madeleine Maby held draw me into mystery with her expert narration. I liked the voices she used to he,p me keep track of the characters as this one has quiet a few. The audiobook paired well with the ebook for Amon immersive read.
Overall it was an interesting mystery that kept me guessing.
The story is complex as there is a mystery of a backstory for Margaux and the case she is working to solve. It very much straddled the line of too much, but mostly stayed on the right side of the line.
I enjoyed the journey more that the ending in this one. For all the build up, the eventual reveal was underwhelming when compared to my expectations. But on the flip side the journey is the bulk of the book.
Madeleine Maby held draw me into mystery with her expert narration. I liked the voices she used to he,p me keep track of the characters as this one has quiet a few. The audiobook paired well with the ebook for Amon immersive read.
Overall it was an interesting mystery that kept me guessing.
November 16, 2025
Margaux's double life allows her to be a working mom AND a spy who infiltrates the lives of criminals and exposing the crimes they thought they got away with.
Her newest assignment is to prove reclusive billionaire tech bro Bertram Casimir stole the code for the app that made his fortune and to look into the disappearance of his girlfriend.
Bertram and Margaux connect and as they begin to trust each other, they both reveal information they typically hide.
Secrets from Margaux's past and her clandestine "side hustle" threaten her relationships with her husband and her daughter, and may cost her her life.
I enjoyed this thriller. Margaux is a complex character. Her hidden past affects her relationships with her husband and daughter and truly keep her from making friends. When she's partnered with an acquaintance from the car pool lane, her ability to trust is tested.
While the novel is action-packed, it's never really gory.
Readers who like a fun mystery, action, thriller with a complex female lead should enjoy A Lie For a Lie.
Thank you Berkley Publishing Group for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Her newest assignment is to prove reclusive billionaire tech bro Bertram Casimir stole the code for the app that made his fortune and to look into the disappearance of his girlfriend.
Bertram and Margaux connect and as they begin to trust each other, they both reveal information they typically hide.
Secrets from Margaux's past and her clandestine "side hustle" threaten her relationships with her husband and her daughter, and may cost her her life.
I enjoyed this thriller. Margaux is a complex character. Her hidden past affects her relationships with her husband and daughter and truly keep her from making friends. When she's partnered with an acquaintance from the car pool lane, her ability to trust is tested.
While the novel is action-packed, it's never really gory.
Readers who like a fun mystery, action, thriller with a complex female lead should enjoy A Lie For a Lie.
Thank you Berkley Publishing Group for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A Lie for a Lie was a great movie.....uh, I mean book. Okay, really good book that I think would be an even better movie! We have Margeaux, who by day is an interior designer. At night, she works for the mysterious "Mr. X" as a sort of corporate spy/vigilante. Oh, and Margeaux is also a wife and mom, so when she sleeps, well who the heck knows. But that's not the point. Mr. X sends her on assignments that usually involve her inserting herself into the lives of the very rich and powerful techy types and exposing their criminal activity. She is assigned to Bertram Casimir, a tech billionaire who supposedly stole an app from his own sister which is where his boo-koos of money supposedly come from. Oh, and he has a missing girlfriend. Well Bertram turns out to be way smarter than Margeaux's other targets and the mission turns into a gripping cat and mouse thriller that as I previously said would be a blast of a movie. Sort of in the Mr. and Mrs. Smith vein. I really liked Margeaux and the pacing of the story and I'm sure I will enjoy more from Ren DeStefano.
Thank you to #NetGalley, Ren DeStefano and Berkley Publishing Group for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to #NetGalley, Ren DeStefano and Berkley Publishing Group for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you for the free ARC, Berkley!
In this compelling domestic thriller, Margaux lives the double life of interior decorator and tween mom by day, and spy who puts criminals behind bars by night. She works with her brother, the mysterious Mr. X, and they find evidence to entrap criminals and bring them to justice. One tech billionaire case manages to catch Margaux off-guard, and everything she thought she knew comes into question. Can she figure out who she can trust before it's too late?
I absolutely loved Ren DeStefano's debut last year and I couldn't wait to get my hands on her second release. This book is quite different, because it's more of a slow burn mystery with a spy focus. Despite the slower start, once it picked up, I couldn't put it down! I really enjoyed trying to play detective along with Margaux and Elodie, and figuring out who was trustworthy was quite a mystery. Based on the ending, I think it may be set up for a second book! I think readers who enjoy the double-life trope, thrillers that aren't extremely violent, and dysfunctional families will eat this up!
In this compelling domestic thriller, Margaux lives the double life of interior decorator and tween mom by day, and spy who puts criminals behind bars by night. She works with her brother, the mysterious Mr. X, and they find evidence to entrap criminals and bring them to justice. One tech billionaire case manages to catch Margaux off-guard, and everything she thought she knew comes into question. Can she figure out who she can trust before it's too late?
I absolutely loved Ren DeStefano's debut last year and I couldn't wait to get my hands on her second release. This book is quite different, because it's more of a slow burn mystery with a spy focus. Despite the slower start, once it picked up, I couldn't put it down! I really enjoyed trying to play detective along with Margaux and Elodie, and figuring out who was trustworthy was quite a mystery. Based on the ending, I think it may be set up for a second book! I think readers who enjoy the double-life trope, thrillers that aren't extremely violent, and dysfunctional families will eat this up!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Margaux leads a double life - a wife, mother and interior designer, as well as a vigilante exposing the crimes of people who think they have gotten away unpunished. Margaux and the mysterious Mr. X seek them out and make them pay. Her latest target is a reclusive billionaire whose sister claims that he stole her app idea and profited off of it while she got nothing. So, Margaux and her mommy nemesis end up teaming up to uncover the secrets. However, it quickly becomes more than they thought as his sister also hints that this man may have also murdered his girlfriend.
My favorite part of this book was the budding friendship between Margaux and Elodie. It was fun to watch their relationship slowly progress into a budding friendship. There were a lot of red herrings thrown out in this one, so it kept you guessing. I figured out the twist pretty early on (although I second guessed myself because I thought Margaux would have been smarter). It was a game of cat and mouse that was fun to read.
*Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for providing a copy of this book to read and review*
My favorite part of this book was the budding friendship between Margaux and Elodie. It was fun to watch their relationship slowly progress into a budding friendship. There were a lot of red herrings thrown out in this one, so it kept you guessing. I figured out the twist pretty early on (although I second guessed myself because I thought Margaux would have been smarter). It was a game of cat and mouse that was fun to read.
*Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for providing a copy of this book to read and review*
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This one is going to squeak out to a 3 Star Read for me. It’s standard thriller fare – lots of things going on, a mystery to unravel, and a hint at the possibility of an unreliable narrator.
Margaux is a seemingly ordinary interior decorator with a picture-perfect marriage. As a side hustle, she works for a mysterious employer known only as Mr. X. Her specialty is vigilante justice, infiltrating the lives of dangerous targes and ultimately exposing their crimes. Her latest assignment is taking on a billionaire tech CEO whose sister claims he stole her app to create his fortune and says his girlfriend has gone missing and may be danger.
My main beef with this one is that the main mystery didn’t seem all that high stakes. Margaux has taken on much bigger adversaries and this billionaire is not all that scary. Her efforts to take him down seem amateur at best for someone with her resume. I just never really bought into the main story line. The writing was strong which kept me some-what interested, and I liked the storyline of her family troubles, and coming to terms with her past.
Thanks you to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for access to this eARC.
Margaux is a seemingly ordinary interior decorator with a picture-perfect marriage. As a side hustle, she works for a mysterious employer known only as Mr. X. Her specialty is vigilante justice, infiltrating the lives of dangerous targes and ultimately exposing their crimes. Her latest assignment is taking on a billionaire tech CEO whose sister claims he stole her app to create his fortune and says his girlfriend has gone missing and may be danger.
My main beef with this one is that the main mystery didn’t seem all that high stakes. Margaux has taken on much bigger adversaries and this billionaire is not all that scary. Her efforts to take him down seem amateur at best for someone with her resume. I just never really bought into the main story line. The writing was strong which kept me some-what interested, and I liked the storyline of her family troubles, and coming to terms with her past.
Thanks you to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for access to this eARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The premise of A LIE FOR A LIE hooked me from the start. It's unique and the story that DeStefano spins from it is compelling and engrossing. I liked the characters. They're not super memorable, but they're all interesting in their own way. Margaux and Mr. X are especially sympathetic, and their mission is admirable. I'm not sure their back story is really dramatic enough to justify how secretively they choose to live as adults, but I went with it. The tale gets far-fetched (as most books of this type do), and I saw the Big Twist at the end coming from a mile away, BUT DeStefano did make me doubt myself with a couple of red herrings. That helped make up for any predictability. In the end, I quite enjoyed A LIE FOR A LIE. It kept me reading up way past my bedtime because I knew I wouldn't be able to sleep until I finished it. Considering the last lines of the novel, it sounds like this book is the beginning of a series, and I am totally THERE for it.
If this were a movie, it would be rated: R for language (a handful of F-bombs, plus milder invectives), violence, and blood/gore
If this were a movie, it would be rated: R for language (a handful of F-bombs, plus milder invectives), violence, and blood/gore
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Short synopsis: By day Margaux is busy mom working as an interior designer, but by night she is a spy vigilante working for a man known as Mr X. She is trying to solve the mystery of a brother accused of stealing his sisters app to make his fortune.
My thoughts: I was pulled immediately into this story as we hear of the fire in Margaux’s childhood home killing her parents. That’s not the meat of the story, but it gives us some insight as to her past. I did hope for more behind her backstory, and it took a long time to get there.
I enjoyed the concept of a secret double life, especially knowing that that’s how Margaux and Waylon met. I liked that it wasn’t a complete secret from her husband, even if he had moved on. I also enjoyed watching the friendship blossom between Margaux and Elodie, they were complete opposites but worked well as a team.
What you’ll find:
* Cat and Mouse
* Vigilante/Double life
* Not knowing who to trust
* Family secrets
My thoughts: I was pulled immediately into this story as we hear of the fire in Margaux’s childhood home killing her parents. That’s not the meat of the story, but it gives us some insight as to her past. I did hope for more behind her backstory, and it took a long time to get there.
I enjoyed the concept of a secret double life, especially knowing that that’s how Margaux and Waylon met. I liked that it wasn’t a complete secret from her husband, even if he had moved on. I also enjoyed watching the friendship blossom between Margaux and Elodie, they were complete opposites but worked well as a team.
What you’ll find:
* Cat and Mouse
* Vigilante/Double life
* Not knowing who to trust
* Family secrets
March 12, 2026
This book was a WILD RIDE. I love love loved all the drama, twist and turns, and relationships. Our FMC was wild and you were questioning every decision she made, but wow did I love seeing how she could confront everything. I was blown away with all the secrets and revelations that happened throughout this book. Elodie was a PHENOMENAL side character that added so much development (character and plot) to the story. I want more from her POV and desperately need a sequel!!!!
The husband + wife dynamic was like Mr. and Mrs. Smith, but with Mrs. Smith being completely the ring leader of the circus. Her dynamic with her brother and family situation was sooooo heartbreaking and added more layers to her personality. I just think this was world class development in non-traditional ways. So many things happened outside of our characters mind and decisions that showed us so much of her personality and story - 10/10 loved it.
The husband + wife dynamic was like Mr. and Mrs. Smith, but with Mrs. Smith being completely the ring leader of the circus. Her dynamic with her brother and family situation was sooooo heartbreaking and added more layers to her personality. I just think this was world class development in non-traditional ways. So many things happened outside of our characters mind and decisions that showed us so much of her personality and story - 10/10 loved it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A LIE FOR A LIE
📖 book review • out 03.10.26
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
thank you @berkleypub for my #gifted ARC!
I loved the first book by this author, and was so excited to get the chance to early read her second book! 🙌🏻 I’m a huge fan of cat-and-mouse thrillers that keep you on your toes, and this one was the definition of a page turner. And the way it ended gives me high hopes of there being a sequel. I have questions!!
Margaux is a vigilante spy, sending people to jail for crimes they got away with. Her newest assignment is an attractive billionaire, whose sister accuses of stealing her idea and leaving her high and dry.. and extremely poor. The deeper Margaux and her partner get into the case.. the deeper in trouble she feels.
I love Ren’s writing style, it’s super engaging and fast paced, and I look forward to whatever she has in store next ✨
📖 book review • out 03.10.26
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
thank you @berkleypub for my #gifted ARC!
I loved the first book by this author, and was so excited to get the chance to early read her second book! 🙌🏻 I’m a huge fan of cat-and-mouse thrillers that keep you on your toes, and this one was the definition of a page turner. And the way it ended gives me high hopes of there being a sequel. I have questions!!
Margaux is a vigilante spy, sending people to jail for crimes they got away with. Her newest assignment is an attractive billionaire, whose sister accuses of stealing her idea and leaving her high and dry.. and extremely poor. The deeper Margaux and her partner get into the case.. the deeper in trouble she feels.
I love Ren’s writing style, it’s super engaging and fast paced, and I look forward to whatever she has in store next ✨
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
While I’m sad this book isn’t as good as the author’s debut, it’s still a fine thriller on its own. As a resident of Connecticut myself, I find the uppity names of the characters laughable yet true -particularly in an affluent area like Westport.
You have Margaux, married to Waylen, and her daughter Collette who seem like an average family- except Margaux is a freelance spy who writes injustices. Margaux and Waylen’s family dynamics are constantly disrupted by Margaux’s boss Mr. X. This time Mr. X assigns Margaux to work with Elodie- a gossip swirling mom from school who’s trying to hide a small clash with the law. Secrets are kept and spilled and along the way blood is shed.
Honestly the twists of this book aren’t that hard to guess and I can’t say how I feel about the ending but MILD SPOILERS it sets up a sequel I may not care enough to read.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC
You have Margaux, married to Waylen, and her daughter Collette who seem like an average family- except Margaux is a freelance spy who writes injustices. Margaux and Waylen’s family dynamics are constantly disrupted by Margaux’s boss Mr. X. This time Mr. X assigns Margaux to work with Elodie- a gossip swirling mom from school who’s trying to hide a small clash with the law. Secrets are kept and spilled and along the way blood is shed.
Honestly the twists of this book aren’t that hard to guess and I can’t say how I feel about the ending but MILD SPOILERS it sets up a sequel I may not care enough to read.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC
March 11, 2026
4/5 stars
Thank you Berkley Books for the advanced reading copy!
I was hooked IMMEDIATELY by this one, and that didn't wane. What a wild ride!
I love a story with spies and/or vigilante shit *cue Taylor Swift* and this one was sooo fun. This was mostly fast-paced and gave popcorn thriller vibes, so it was easy to tear through. There were a few great twists and surprises, and I truly had no idea where this was going.
While this definitely gets 5 stars for me in the "entertainment" category, the writing style was a bit sub-par to me. There were a few convoluted moments or those that seemed pretty far-fetched and/or random. This did keep me on my toes, but not always for good reason.
Overall, if you need a solid, entertaining and fast-paced story, this one is going to be for you. A little tweaking on the plotting and writing, and this could easily be a five star story. I had fun!
Thank you Berkley Books for the advanced reading copy!
I was hooked IMMEDIATELY by this one, and that didn't wane. What a wild ride!
I love a story with spies and/or vigilante shit *cue Taylor Swift* and this one was sooo fun. This was mostly fast-paced and gave popcorn thriller vibes, so it was easy to tear through. There were a few great twists and surprises, and I truly had no idea where this was going.
While this definitely gets 5 stars for me in the "entertainment" category, the writing style was a bit sub-par to me. There were a few convoluted moments or those that seemed pretty far-fetched and/or random. This did keep me on my toes, but not always for good reason.
Overall, if you need a solid, entertaining and fast-paced story, this one is going to be for you. A little tweaking on the plotting and writing, and this could easily be a five star story. I had fun!
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