What do you think?
Rate this book
The Perfect Lie
For years, Anna chased hope, desperate to outrun the lies she'd told herself.
Convinced her future can only be found in the past, she returns back to Brighton, where it all began.
She's older. Wiser. More determined.
Then she meets Patrick.
The man she should never have met.
The son of the only man she ever loved.
The son of the man she murdered over twenty years ago.
This fast-paced, twisted psychological novel will keep you hooked until the final, jaw-dropping twist.
Convinced her future can only be found in the past, she returns back to Brighton, where it all began.
She's older. Wiser. More determined.
Then she meets Patrick.
The man she should never have met.
The son of the only man she ever loved.
The son of the man she murdered over twenty years ago.
This fast-paced, twisted psychological novel will keep you hooked until the final, jaw-dropping twist.
320 pages
Published February 16, 26
9 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
About the author
Anja Barker
8 books7 followersI'm a mother and writer and live in a leafy London suburb, where not only the trees have ears!
I wrote my first, albeit handwritten, book when I was just 8 years young! It did however took me more than thirty years to summon the the courage to share my work with the world!
Inspired by everyone around me, my books are all about people, their relationships and experiences. I believe that emotions are as colourful, deep, unpredictable and constantly evolving as life itself. I love writing about diverse experiences that bring us the greatest of joys, as well as the deepest of sorrows.
And, just like my pen on paper, I prefer life to be fast-paced, full of spontaneity and unexpected plot twists.
I wrote my first, albeit handwritten, book when I was just 8 years young! It did however took me more than thirty years to summon the the courage to share my work with the world!
Inspired by everyone around me, my books are all about people, their relationships and experiences. I believe that emotions are as colourful, deep, unpredictable and constantly evolving as life itself. I love writing about diverse experiences that bring us the greatest of joys, as well as the deepest of sorrows.
And, just like my pen on paper, I prefer life to be fast-paced, full of spontaneity and unexpected plot twists.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
January 9, 2026
This book reminded me exactly why I love psychological thrillers. I was hooked from the very first page ~ fast paced, tense and impossible to put down.
After spending years trying to outrun her past. Anna decides it’s time to return to Brighton, where she meets Patrick, the son of the only man she’s ever loved, and the man she killed 20 years ago.
Unbeknown to Anna, Patrick knows exactly who she is and is determined to make her pay. What follows is a dangerous game of obsession, manipulation, scheming and twists. I guessed a couple of them, but some I did not see coming and I love that in a thriller.
After spending years trying to outrun her past. Anna decides it’s time to return to Brighton, where she meets Patrick, the son of the only man she’s ever loved, and the man she killed 20 years ago.
Unbeknown to Anna, Patrick knows exactly who she is and is determined to make her pay. What follows is a dangerous game of obsession, manipulation, scheming and twists. I guessed a couple of them, but some I did not see coming and I love that in a thriller.
January 8, 2026
The Perfect Lie by Anja Barker was an absolutely gripping read. From the very first chapter, I was completely hooked and found myself fully invested right through to the final page. The suspense was constant, with tension that kept me turning pages late into the night. This was my first time reading anything by this author, and it most certainly won’t be my last. Anja Barker has earned a new fan.
January 8, 2026
Thank you to A. Barker and her team for allowing me the opportunity to read and review an ARC of The Perfect Lie. Available February 2026.
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
“But I was a stranger he felt drawn to, almost as if his heart knew how safe it would be in my chest.”
We follow Anna, a middle age woman who becomes obsessed with the son of a man she murdered. Determined to make him see that she is perfect for him without revealing her troubled past, she fails to see that he already knows and has a plan of his own.
This story is fast paced and easy to read. The author continues to push the plot forward, never lingering on certain topics or losing sight of the storyline. I did find some of the major points to he predictable but still enjoyable.
This is also a multiple POV which I love when it comes to psychological thrillers! It’s primarily told through Anna’s POV but we do get to see glimpse of Patrick, Lucy and Sam!
Of all the characters we did see, Patrick and Lucy were my favorite. Their banter and full support of each other during the story was relatable and quick witted. Truly lovable Characters. The main character Anna was difficult to enjoy, she lacked personality. Other characters would describe her as meticulous, thorough in her actions and mean at times but I found that to be opposite. She seemed to rush into everything, maybe that’s because we don’t get to see her planning as she pawns off all the dirty work to others. There was little character growth for her as well, she would talk about how her desire and desperation for Patrick was increasing, but her actions never met the level of desire she expressed in her thoughts. There were also moments where she would talk to voices in her head that felt very out of place with the story. I felt Sam had the greatest character development, realizing the mistakes he made and moving to rectify them. Also, the ending mention of Sam has me very concerned for hims safety, Anna please leave that man alone.
There conclusion of the story was great, I wish there was more sprinkled throughout to hint to readers, maybe build up anticipation around the police having been watching Anna, it would have made other ending events more impactful (I’m trying to avoid spoilers here, sorry if it’s vague).
Overall, this was an enjoyable, fast read. If you are looking to get into psychological thrillers and don’t know where to start, this is a great one to pick up!
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
“But I was a stranger he felt drawn to, almost as if his heart knew how safe it would be in my chest.”
We follow Anna, a middle age woman who becomes obsessed with the son of a man she murdered. Determined to make him see that she is perfect for him without revealing her troubled past, she fails to see that he already knows and has a plan of his own.
This story is fast paced and easy to read. The author continues to push the plot forward, never lingering on certain topics or losing sight of the storyline. I did find some of the major points to he predictable but still enjoyable.
This is also a multiple POV which I love when it comes to psychological thrillers! It’s primarily told through Anna’s POV but we do get to see glimpse of Patrick, Lucy and Sam!
Of all the characters we did see, Patrick and Lucy were my favorite. Their banter and full support of each other during the story was relatable and quick witted. Truly lovable Characters. The main character Anna was difficult to enjoy, she lacked personality. Other characters would describe her as meticulous, thorough in her actions and mean at times but I found that to be opposite. She seemed to rush into everything, maybe that’s because we don’t get to see her planning as she pawns off all the dirty work to others. There was little character growth for her as well, she would talk about how her desire and desperation for Patrick was increasing, but her actions never met the level of desire she expressed in her thoughts. There were also moments where she would talk to voices in her head that felt very out of place with the story. I felt Sam had the greatest character development, realizing the mistakes he made and moving to rectify them. Also, the ending mention of Sam has me very concerned for hims safety, Anna please leave that man alone.
There conclusion of the story was great, I wish there was more sprinkled throughout to hint to readers, maybe build up anticipation around the police having been watching Anna, it would have made other ending events more impactful (I’m trying to avoid spoilers here, sorry if it’s vague).
Overall, this was an enjoyable, fast read. If you are looking to get into psychological thrillers and don’t know where to start, this is a great one to pick up!
January 16, 2026
A Dangerous Game of Obsession and Revenge
Anja Barker’s The Perfect Lie is a fast-paced psychological thriller that hooked me from the very first page. The story follows Anna, a woman returning to Brighton to confront her past, only to become obsessed with Patrick—the son of the man she murdered twenty years ago. In a tense game of cat-and-mouse, Anna tries to manipulate her way into his life, unaware that Patrick is already steps ahead with a revenge plan of his own.
The multiple perspectives add great complexity to the plot, and I particularly loved the witty dynamic between side characters Patrick and Lucy. While the protagonist, Anna, was difficult to connect with at times, the redemption arc for Sam was a highlight. Though I guessed a few of the twists, the sharp writing and "wow" ending more than made up for it. This is a gripping, easy read perfect for anyone who loves a story packed with manipulation and high stakes.
Thank you to Anja Barker for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Anja Barker’s The Perfect Lie is a fast-paced psychological thriller that hooked me from the very first page. The story follows Anna, a woman returning to Brighton to confront her past, only to become obsessed with Patrick—the son of the man she murdered twenty years ago. In a tense game of cat-and-mouse, Anna tries to manipulate her way into his life, unaware that Patrick is already steps ahead with a revenge plan of his own.
The multiple perspectives add great complexity to the plot, and I particularly loved the witty dynamic between side characters Patrick and Lucy. While the protagonist, Anna, was difficult to connect with at times, the redemption arc for Sam was a highlight. Though I guessed a few of the twists, the sharp writing and "wow" ending more than made up for it. This is a gripping, easy read perfect for anyone who loves a story packed with manipulation and high stakes.
Thank you to Anja Barker for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 18, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ARC Review
Thank you so much to the author and team for allowing me to read The Perfect Lie as an ARC.
This was one of those books I thought I’d read a few chapters of… and instead ended up finishing in a single evening. I genuinely could not put it down.
The story is told through multiple points of view, which I absolutely loved. Each perspective adds another layer to the mystery, and just when you think you have things figured out, the narrative shifts and leaves you questioning everything again. The tension is constant, and the pacing keeps you hooked from start to finish.
What really stood out to me was how effectively the author builds suspense. There’s a constant feeling that something isn’t quite right, and that underlying unease kept me on edge the entire time. Every chapter made me want to read “just one more,” and before I knew it, I was at the end.
If you enjoy twisty, fast-paced thrillers that keep you guessing and second-guessing every character, The Perfect Lie is definitely one to add to your TBR. A gripping, addictive read that I highly recommend.
ARC Review
Thank you so much to the author and team for allowing me to read The Perfect Lie as an ARC.
This was one of those books I thought I’d read a few chapters of… and instead ended up finishing in a single evening. I genuinely could not put it down.
The story is told through multiple points of view, which I absolutely loved. Each perspective adds another layer to the mystery, and just when you think you have things figured out, the narrative shifts and leaves you questioning everything again. The tension is constant, and the pacing keeps you hooked from start to finish.
What really stood out to me was how effectively the author builds suspense. There’s a constant feeling that something isn’t quite right, and that underlying unease kept me on edge the entire time. Every chapter made me want to read “just one more,” and before I knew it, I was at the end.
If you enjoy twisty, fast-paced thrillers that keep you guessing and second-guessing every character, The Perfect Lie is definitely one to add to your TBR. A gripping, addictive read that I highly recommend.
January 26, 2026
The Perfect Lie, written by Anja Barker, is a fast-paced psychological thriller. Barker is a new-to-me author, and I was excited to jump into a genre I haven’t had the opportunity to read much.
The book follows Anna, a woman with a secretive past, as she becomes obsessed with Patrick. Patrick, the son of the man Anna murdered years ago, has secrets of his own. Anna tries to become a vital part of his life, while Patrick has plans of his own.
The story has multiple points of view, which was pretty awesome. Getting these different characters’ perspectives added to the story's thrilling side. It helped build suspense and pushed me to keep reading. Although parts of the story were predictable, the little twists here and there made up for it. In the end, I expected … more. Something explosive and over the top. The book was enjoyable, and the pacing was pretty good.
Thanks to Anja Barker for gifting me an eARC of The Perfect Lie. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The book follows Anna, a woman with a secretive past, as she becomes obsessed with Patrick. Patrick, the son of the man Anna murdered years ago, has secrets of his own. Anna tries to become a vital part of his life, while Patrick has plans of his own.
The story has multiple points of view, which was pretty awesome. Getting these different characters’ perspectives added to the story's thrilling side. It helped build suspense and pushed me to keep reading. Although parts of the story were predictable, the little twists here and there made up for it. In the end, I expected … more. Something explosive and over the top. The book was enjoyable, and the pacing was pretty good.
Thanks to Anja Barker for gifting me an eARC of The Perfect Lie. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 9, 2026
I was very pleased to be a part of the ARC team for The Perfect Lie by Anja Barker. This was a gripping psychological thriller from start to finish, with a strong, steady pace that kept me fully engaged throughout. While some parts were a little predictable, there were plenty of twists that more than made up for it—many of them completely unexpected. The story is told from multiple POVs, which really added to the tension and helped build a complex, layered narrative. This is a tale full of manipulation, unpredictability, and simmering tension that keeps you constantly questioning motives and truths.
The writing is sharp and well done, and the ending… wow. I wish I could say more, but it’s one you really need to experience for yourself. This is my first book by Anja Barker, but it certainly won’t be my last.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers packed with tension, this one is definitely for you.
The writing is sharp and well done, and the ending… wow. I wish I could say more, but it’s one you really need to experience for yourself. This is my first book by Anja Barker, but it certainly won’t be my last.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers packed with tension, this one is definitely for you.
January 19, 2026
The Perfect Lie by Anja Barker was an absolutely gripping read! I was drawn in right from the start and completely enthralled by the characters and the pacing of the story. Barker gives readers just enough background to understand the core of the plot, and what a story it is! The depth and detail she brings to her writing make every chapter feel vivid and meaningful.The only reason this isn’t a full five stars for me is that the final showdown felt a bit anticlimactic. After spending so much time invested in the central deception, I expected a more explosive resolution. a real “big moment” that would match the intensity of the buildup. That said, I did love the open-ended final chapter, which left just enough room for imagination. and maybe even a follow up.Overall, this was a great read that I’ll be recommending to anyone who enjoys complex characters, intricate plotting, and stories that linger in your mind after the last page.
January 19, 2026
The Perfect Lie by Anja Barker is an absolute 5-star thriller that feels like watching a 4-D movie. The experience is immersive, masterfully structured, and cleverly plotted. The book uses a multi-POV approach—shifting between young Patrick, the calculating and selfish Anna, Lucy, and even minor characters who prove vital—to build a complex puzzle in which each chapter adds a new, essential piece rather than repeating the same information.
From the very first chapter, the foundation of Patrick’s hatred and Anna’s games creates a tension that never lets up. Barker reveals secrets layer by layer, keeping the mystery alive with twists that range from unexpected to truly shocking.
I was completely hooked and found myself second-guessing every character right until the final page. This is a fast-paced, high-tension must-read for anyone who loves a psychological thriller that keeps you constantly on your toes.
From the very first chapter, the foundation of Patrick’s hatred and Anna’s games creates a tension that never lets up. Barker reveals secrets layer by layer, keeping the mystery alive with twists that range from unexpected to truly shocking.
I was completely hooked and found myself second-guessing every character right until the final page. This is a fast-paced, high-tension must-read for anyone who loves a psychological thriller that keeps you constantly on your toes.
January 19, 2026
"Showing your emotions is never a bad thing." - Patrick
I will just list some of the things I noticed. I will tag this as a spoiler.
Some scenes felt unnecessary or overly done.
I was confused about who Michelle was, especially when everything seemed to be in place. It turned out she was an undercover agent.
The major plot twist felt awkward. Anyone who has read this can relate. Then it clicked, “Oh, that makes sense.” There were already hints, and I thought Patrick was just joking. Turns out he wasn’t. That explains why he felt a bit off to me, and why there were parts where he seemed very weak.
I’m thankful that Lucy is safe and still alive.
I’m giving this 4-star rating because of the plot twist at the end. Haha, I really didn’t expect it and I wasn’t ready for it.
Lastly, Anna scared me too, hahaha.
Thank you author Anja Barker for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
I will just list some of the things I noticed. I will tag this as a spoiler.
Some scenes felt unnecessary or overly done.
I was confused about who Michelle was, especially when everything seemed to be in place. It turned out she was an undercover agent.
The major plot twist felt awkward. Anyone who has read this can relate. Then it clicked, “Oh, that makes sense.” There were already hints, and I thought Patrick was just joking. Turns out he wasn’t. That explains why he felt a bit off to me, and why there were parts where he seemed very weak.
I’m thankful that Lucy is safe and still alive.
I’m giving this 4-star rating because of the plot twist at the end. Haha, I really didn’t expect it and I wasn’t ready for it.
Lastly, Anna scared me too, hahaha.
Thank you author Anja Barker for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2026
I got the opportunity to read this as an ARC.
I've always loved this type of book; I find them and devour them.
This book was full of twists and turns, making it a truly epic, twisted, and dark psychological thriller.
For me, this book reminded me a lot of the Villains series by V.E. Schwab.
The novel is a fast-paced and twisted psychological novel. When I do like the plot, characters, as well as the changes of POVS. My only issue with the book is how the story is told. The constant changing back and forth is my only pet peeve against the whole novel. Though it isn't enough to deduct it from five stars to four.
The writing is truly fantastic, and the story is amazing, epic even. It leaves you wanting more by the end. Which makes one wonder--- will there be more to this perfect lie?
I've always loved this type of book; I find them and devour them.
This book was full of twists and turns, making it a truly epic, twisted, and dark psychological thriller.
For me, this book reminded me a lot of the Villains series by V.E. Schwab.
The novel is a fast-paced and twisted psychological novel. When I do like the plot, characters, as well as the changes of POVS. My only issue with the book is how the story is told. The constant changing back and forth is my only pet peeve against the whole novel. Though it isn't enough to deduct it from five stars to four.
The writing is truly fantastic, and the story is amazing, epic even. It leaves you wanting more by the end. Which makes one wonder--- will there be more to this perfect lie?
January 6, 2026
The Perfect Lie by Anja Barker tells the story of Patrick and Anna, whose lives are tangled by guilt, revenge, and twisted emotions. Anna is responsible for Patrick’s father’s death, and as their paths cross, what starts as a complicated connection quickly turns dark. Anna is manipulative and unpredictable, while Patrick is single-minded in his pursuit of revenge. The characters aren’t exactly likable, but their flaws drive the tension in the story. The writing itself is clear and easy to follow, making it a quick and engaging read, even if the plot isn’t packed with shocking twists. Overall, a solid story—I’d give it 3.75 stars, rounded up to 4. Thank you to A. Barker for this ARC. This review is being left voluntarily.
January 11, 2026
A good psychological thriller, which was a really easy read that had me engaged from very early on. From multi points of view, which I really enjoy in this genre, there was numerous points where side characters suddenly came to the fore of the plot.
A few of the ‘twists’ I had guessed before they were uncovered but that is completely down to me and how I try to guess ahead rather then enjoy the book as it builds 😂
A good book and I will certainly be looking up more from this author.
Thank you to Anja Barker for providing me with an ARC of her book. Book release is coming next month on the 16th Feb 💕
A few of the ‘twists’ I had guessed before they were uncovered but that is completely down to me and how I try to guess ahead rather then enjoy the book as it builds 😂
A good book and I will certainly be looking up more from this author.
Thank you to Anja Barker for providing me with an ARC of her book. Book release is coming next month on the 16th Feb 💕
January 13, 2026
This was a pretty easy, enjoyable read. The setup is interesting right from the start, and Anna heading back to Brighton with all that baggage definitely pulled me in. Once Patrick shows up, things get messy fast, and that uncomfortable connection kept me turning pages.
I did find the story fairly predictable, though. I could see a lot of the twists coming, which took some of the edge off. Still, the pacing is good, the writing is smooth, and it never felt like a chore to read.
Overall, The Perfect Lie is solid and entertaining, just not very surprising. A good pick if you’re in the mood for a low effort psychological drama that keeps you engaged without completely blowing your mind.
I did find the story fairly predictable, though. I could see a lot of the twists coming, which took some of the edge off. Still, the pacing is good, the writing is smooth, and it never felt like a chore to read.
Overall, The Perfect Lie is solid and entertaining, just not very surprising. A good pick if you’re in the mood for a low effort psychological drama that keeps you engaged without completely blowing your mind.
January 14, 2026
3.5 Star review
First book that I’ve read from A. Barker. I received this book as an ARC in return for my honest opinion.
At first, I struggled to connect to the main character . Around 1/3 through the book, I found myself finding it increasingly more difficult to put the book down.. twists I didn’t expect. I kept trying to figure out what would happen next and I was wrong every time.
I would recommend this book to any of my fellow Frieda McFadden fans. The writing of this author is somewhat similar. The perfect book for fellow psychological thrillers like myself. I look forward to more books by this author.
First book that I’ve read from A. Barker. I received this book as an ARC in return for my honest opinion.
At first, I struggled to connect to the main character . Around 1/3 through the book, I found myself finding it increasingly more difficult to put the book down.. twists I didn’t expect. I kept trying to figure out what would happen next and I was wrong every time.
I would recommend this book to any of my fellow Frieda McFadden fans. The writing of this author is somewhat similar. The perfect book for fellow psychological thrillers like myself. I look forward to more books by this author.
January 18, 2026
This is the first book I have read by this author. I was drawn in from the beginning, sorry to have to put it down to sleep. Anna is a murderer and plans to move to Brighton to seek out the son of the man she murdered. A master manipulator, she has a team of people ready to jump into action to make this happen. Anna's plan is meticulous and she sets out determined to achieve her goal, but will she?
This is one of those books where you have to read just one more chapter as the twists and turns unfold.
Thank you to the author for an Advance Reader Copy in return for an honest review. I will be looking out for more books from Anja Barker.
This is one of those books where you have to read just one more chapter as the twists and turns unfold.
Thank you to the author for an Advance Reader Copy in return for an honest review. I will be looking out for more books from Anja Barker.
January 5, 2026
I wasn’t sure where this one was going but I was gripped to find out.
The story was told from several POVs cleverly interlinked so you found out about the story from all perspectives which was a nice addition to the story, especially as you heard from some ,who at the start, seem insignificant characters.
It had afew twists and turns in, some you didn’t guess were coming and some I did. Overall I read it in a day so if you’re looking for a thriller that keeps you intrigued this could be the one for you.
Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC of this in exchange for my review.
The story was told from several POVs cleverly interlinked so you found out about the story from all perspectives which was a nice addition to the story, especially as you heard from some ,who at the start, seem insignificant characters.
It had afew twists and turns in, some you didn’t guess were coming and some I did. Overall I read it in a day so if you’re looking for a thriller that keeps you intrigued this could be the one for you.
Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC of this in exchange for my review.
January 6, 2026
Firstly, thank you to A. Barker for the ARC.
As psychological thrillers go, this was uncomplicated and easy to read. It has a strong and engaging start and I followed the twists and turns clearly (which is sometimes hard with some thrillers). Nice satisfying end too.
I enjoyed it, but, it was largely predictable and as a mental health professional I found the ‘voices’ in Anna’s head not believable or representative of what it’s like to hear voices. I couldn’t let that go, but that’s a personal opinion based on my own experience.
I’m grateful for the ARC though!
As psychological thrillers go, this was uncomplicated and easy to read. It has a strong and engaging start and I followed the twists and turns clearly (which is sometimes hard with some thrillers). Nice satisfying end too.
I enjoyed it, but, it was largely predictable and as a mental health professional I found the ‘voices’ in Anna’s head not believable or representative of what it’s like to hear voices. I couldn’t let that go, but that’s a personal opinion based on my own experience.
I’m grateful for the ARC though!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2026
This one had me turning pages right to the very end 📖
I loved the multiple POVs, especially hearing from all the main characters, including Anna, our killer (not a spoiler, you know that from the start!).
Spending too much time in her head is definitely unsettling…
There are plenty of surprises along the way that keep the tension high and make it impossible not to keep reading.
A well crafted, fast paced read with a satisfying ending.
Definitely worth picking up!
I was given this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I loved the multiple POVs, especially hearing from all the main characters, including Anna, our killer (not a spoiler, you know that from the start!).
Spending too much time in her head is definitely unsettling…
There are plenty of surprises along the way that keep the tension high and make it impossible not to keep reading.
A well crafted, fast paced read with a satisfying ending.
Definitely worth picking up!
I was given this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review.
January 11, 2026
The Perfect Lie was a twisty tale of a woman with a dark past that’s finally caught up to her. When Anna returns to the scene of a crime 20 years later, she sets her sights on her victims son and fixates on him to be the next love of her life. Little does she know, Patrick knows exactly who she is and what she’s up to. Twists, turns, backstabbing and betrayal.. the book is a rollercoaster to see who gets caught first! Would have liked to see a bit more detail at the end of what happens to all the characters. 3.5 ⭐️ for me!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2026
I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
As an avid thriller reader, I was initially drawn to The Perfect Lie because of its intriguing premise, with the mysterious Anna returning from her murderous past to connect with the son of her first love/victim — promising a compelling thriller experience.
The story moves at a fast pace and is told from multiple points of view. There are several plot twists along the way, although some were a little predictable. Overall, it was an easy and enjoyable read.
January 8, 2026
Well ... I don't even know where to start!
The plot. The intricate weaving together of everything that happens. The structure of how this is written.
I soaked it all up, and could not put it down, I just needed to keep reading. I was compelled to know how it all ended.
It's safe to say I was left speechless for a hot minute before I could put my thoughts into words without spoiling anything.
It's not often that a thriller gets 5 stars from me but this was very well earned.
The plot. The intricate weaving together of everything that happens. The structure of how this is written.
I soaked it all up, and could not put it down, I just needed to keep reading. I was compelled to know how it all ended.
It's safe to say I was left speechless for a hot minute before I could put my thoughts into words without spoiling anything.
It's not often that a thriller gets 5 stars from me but this was very well earned.
January 5, 2026
Having recently finished 'Regrets Freedom' I was looking forward to reading 'The perfect lie'.
It's a very captivating story and it's really well written, with lots of depth to characters.
There's lots of twists and turns along the way.
If your reading tastes include psychological thrillers, I would definitely recommend that you read this book.
Give it a go !
It's a very captivating story and it's really well written, with lots of depth to characters.
There's lots of twists and turns along the way.
If your reading tastes include psychological thrillers, I would definitely recommend that you read this book.
Give it a go !
January 13, 2026
Wow an amazing read from start to finish. It was just like reading a freida McFadden book with all the twists and turns.
It had me gripped and on the edge if my seat through every chapter. I was shouting at the characters to do so and so or not to do so and so.
Definitely a must read for any Freida fans
It had me gripped and on the edge if my seat through every chapter. I was shouting at the characters to do so and so or not to do so and so.
Definitely a must read for any Freida fans
January 18, 2026
The Perfect Lie by Anja Barker was an absolute suspenseful thrilling book. It took me until Chaoter 3 to fully get into it, but then I was hooked and found myself fully invested to the final page. I was up late at night then woke early in the morning to finish it. This was my first time reading anything by this author, and it most certainly won’t be my last. Anja Barker has earned a new fan.
January 18, 2026
I was very lucky to receive an ARC for this book.
If you like a suspenseful read with twists and turns you will enjoy this book. The characters are interesting and just when you think you might have it figured out...the story leads you in a different direction.
I loved the ending of this book but dont't want to give anything away. Would definitely recommend!
If you like a suspenseful read with twists and turns you will enjoy this book. The characters are interesting and just when you think you might have it figured out...the story leads you in a different direction.
I loved the ending of this book but dont't want to give anything away. Would definitely recommend!
January 18, 2026
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of The Perfect Lie. Thanks Anja.
A woman with a nasty past returns to Brighton looking for the son of her dead husband. She's a fishy character and there's a lot going on.
It's very fast paced, with a good sense of place and quite a few different plot twists.
If you like Freida McFadden, it's probably right up your street. Quick and easy to read.
A woman with a nasty past returns to Brighton looking for the son of her dead husband. She's a fishy character and there's a lot going on.
It's very fast paced, with a good sense of place and quite a few different plot twists.
If you like Freida McFadden, it's probably right up your street. Quick and easy to read.
January 21, 2026
My first read from the author, but not my last as I loved the writing style of this book. Told by multiple pov, the author pulled me into this psychological thriller from the first chapter. It has tension that builds and builds, lies, deception and obsession, but with believable characters and a great ending.
January 25, 2026
Thank you to Anja & her team for letting me read an ARC of The perfect lie this is my honest & voluntary review. The book is multiple POV & timelines. Fast paced & a perfect twist. Anna thinks she holds all the strings & no one can beat her but does she? She has spent 20 years planning her moves & manipulating others to help get her what she wants but it doesn’t all go to plan
January 9, 2026
As a first read from this author, I wasn't sure how I would like this thriller.
But, oh my!
I was hooked throughout, the twists and turns never stopped, right to the last page.
And that ending! So unfair to leave us guessing. Would love a follow up.
But, oh my!
I was hooked throughout, the twists and turns never stopped, right to the last page.
And that ending! So unfair to leave us guessing. Would love a follow up.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews