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The Summer We Lied
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Expected 2 Jul 26Eighteen years ago teenager Alex sent a man to prison. She, and her two best friends from school, overheard the vicious murder of a mother and child, although only she took the stand in court.
But despite her evidence, there were always rumours that the wrong man had been imprisoned. That although he was someone not to be trusted, he wasn't a killer.
Alex has always known she did the right thing but when new DNA evidences comes to light and the conviction is overturned, the spotlight falls on her, the woman who sent him to jail. The woman whose mistake may have let the real killer evade justice for years.
And for Jonathan, Alex and Rachel, once friends for life, now strangers to one another, there are going to be many more secrets coming to light.
Because that summer, there were many different versions of the truth.
But despite her evidence, there were always rumours that the wrong man had been imprisoned. That although he was someone not to be trusted, he wasn't a killer.
Alex has always known she did the right thing but when new DNA evidences comes to light and the conviction is overturned, the spotlight falls on her, the woman who sent him to jail. The woman whose mistake may have let the real killer evade justice for years.
And for Jonathan, Alex and Rachel, once friends for life, now strangers to one another, there are going to be many more secrets coming to light.
Because that summer, there were many different versions of the truth.
- GenresMysteryMystery Thriller
Kindle Edition
Expected publication July 2, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
May 18, 2026
Overall a good atmospheric summer thriller. The setting was very vivid and I really didn’t see a couple of the plot twists coming! However I did find the multiple timelines and narrators a little confusing at times, especially when certain identities are being protected by another character - a few times I ended up having to flick back in case I’d missed anything. The ending satisfyingly tied up most of the story, if a little abruptly. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Summer We Lied by Rebecca Hardy is a dark, suspenseful thriller that completely drew me in and didn’t let go until the very last page.
What really stood out to me was the way the story is told through multiple perspectives, moving between past and present. Each character brings their own version of events, and as the narrative unfolds, you start to question what’s real and what isn’t. It’s cleverly done and keeps things constantly shifting, which made it such an engaging read. Just when I thought I had things figured out, another twist would come along and prove me wrong.
The writing is vivid and atmospheric, making it easy to feel like you’re right there in the middle of everything. The characters are complex and believable, and their emotions really come through—especially as the story reveals more about what they went through.
The sections set in 1988 were particularly impactful. They highlight the pressures on the teenagers at the time, not just from each other but from the adults around them. The police, with their own agenda, and families who seem more focused on themselves than their children, create a sense of tension and injustice that lingers throughout the book. Watching how those experiences shape the characters into adulthood—and how they’re forced to confront long-buried truths—adds another layer of depth.
It’s a dark and twisted story that keeps you guessing right until the end. I genuinely didn’t see some of the twists coming, which made it even more addictive—I ended up staying up far too late just to find out what happened.
Overall, this is a cleverly constructed and immersive read that explores the grey areas between truth and lies, and how perspective can change everything.
What really stood out to me was the way the story is told through multiple perspectives, moving between past and present. Each character brings their own version of events, and as the narrative unfolds, you start to question what’s real and what isn’t. It’s cleverly done and keeps things constantly shifting, which made it such an engaging read. Just when I thought I had things figured out, another twist would come along and prove me wrong.
The writing is vivid and atmospheric, making it easy to feel like you’re right there in the middle of everything. The characters are complex and believable, and their emotions really come through—especially as the story reveals more about what they went through.
The sections set in 1988 were particularly impactful. They highlight the pressures on the teenagers at the time, not just from each other but from the adults around them. The police, with their own agenda, and families who seem more focused on themselves than their children, create a sense of tension and injustice that lingers throughout the book. Watching how those experiences shape the characters into adulthood—and how they’re forced to confront long-buried truths—adds another layer of depth.
It’s a dark and twisted story that keeps you guessing right until the end. I genuinely didn’t see some of the twists coming, which made it even more addictive—I ended up staying up far too late just to find out what happened.
Overall, this is a cleverly constructed and immersive read that explores the grey areas between truth and lies, and how perspective can change everything.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is an emotional story of families, lies and violence that manages to stay just the right side of melodrama despite the fact that everyone has been hiding a secret for more than twenty years: think domestic abuse, sexual abuse, affairs, a teenage conspiracy, police and legal failures, miscarriages of justice, investigative reporters and a stalker... The book feels a little over-packed, to be honest, with every possible drama being thrown in - including a chase in a hospital! For all that, it takes its subject seriously: this isn't tonally fun or humorous or tongue in cheek as so many contemporary thrillers are, and has one eye on recent news headlines.
For me, the style was disappointing: the writing is functional but nothing more: metaphors and similes feels clichéd ('the worries return, crawling over her skin like an itch') and frequently try harder than is necessary: do we really need to be told that a ringing phone performs 'a buzz and shiver, twist[s] across the smooth surface of her office desk like an upended insect' - as if we don't know what this perfectly everyday occurrence of a phone ringing is like? This kind of florid writing makes the book feel a bit baggy and stops the flow of the story. Similarly, the go-to-structure of bitty fragments revolving through three characters 'then' and 'now' mean it's hard to settle into the story before each strand breaks off - clearly assuming an audience with a limited concentration span.
Nevertheless, there is an emotive pull-through here and a sense of the characters living through a traumatic experience that comes back to haunt them.
Thanks to the publisher for an ARC via NetGalley
For me, the style was disappointing: the writing is functional but nothing more: metaphors and similes feels clichéd ('the worries return, crawling over her skin like an itch') and frequently try harder than is necessary: do we really need to be told that a ringing phone performs 'a buzz and shiver, twist[s] across the smooth surface of her office desk like an upended insect' - as if we don't know what this perfectly everyday occurrence of a phone ringing is like? This kind of florid writing makes the book feel a bit baggy and stops the flow of the story. Similarly, the go-to-structure of bitty fragments revolving through three characters 'then' and 'now' mean it's hard to settle into the story before each strand breaks off - clearly assuming an audience with a limited concentration span.
Nevertheless, there is an emotive pull-through here and a sense of the characters living through a traumatic experience that comes back to haunt them.
Thanks to the publisher for an ARC via NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Eighteen years ago teenager Alex sent a man to prison. She, and her two best friends from school, overheard the vicious murder of a mother and child, although only she took the stand in court.
But despite her evidence, there were always rumours that the wrong man had been imprisoned. That although he was someone not to be trusted, he wasn't a killer.
Alex has always known she did the right thing but when new DNA evidences comes to light and the conviction is overturned, the spotlight falls on her, the woman who sent him to jail. The woman whose mistake may have let the real killer evade justice for years.
And for Jonathan, Alex and Rachel, once friends for life, now strangers to one another, there are going to be many more secrets coming to light.
Because that summer, there were many different versions of the truth.
Not sure if I started this book during a book slump, but it took me 3 attempts at starting it, to get to grips with the story.
I think because it had alternating POVs and an alternating timeline, this possibly threw me.
Once I got into the bulk of the story, I became used to the writing style and the differing voices throughout the book.
I enjoyed this book and would read another book by this author.
The storyline was plausible, not wanting to say too much due to spoilers, but I could honestly see this happening, in the era that it was written.
Many thanks to Net Galley, the publishers and the author for this free E-arc in exchange for a honest review.
But despite her evidence, there were always rumours that the wrong man had been imprisoned. That although he was someone not to be trusted, he wasn't a killer.
Alex has always known she did the right thing but when new DNA evidences comes to light and the conviction is overturned, the spotlight falls on her, the woman who sent him to jail. The woman whose mistake may have let the real killer evade justice for years.
And for Jonathan, Alex and Rachel, once friends for life, now strangers to one another, there are going to be many more secrets coming to light.
Because that summer, there were many different versions of the truth.
Not sure if I started this book during a book slump, but it took me 3 attempts at starting it, to get to grips with the story.
I think because it had alternating POVs and an alternating timeline, this possibly threw me.
Once I got into the bulk of the story, I became used to the writing style and the differing voices throughout the book.
I enjoyed this book and would read another book by this author.
The storyline was plausible, not wanting to say too much due to spoilers, but I could honestly see this happening, in the era that it was written.
Many thanks to Net Galley, the publishers and the author for this free E-arc in exchange for a honest review.
March 2, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to review this forthcoming book by Rebecca Hardy
Eighteen years ago, July 1998 three teenage girls—Alex, Jonathan, and Rachel—overheard the brutal murder of a mother and child. Only Alex testified, and her evidence put a man behind bars. Even then, rumours swirled that he wasn’t actually the killer—just a dangerous man in the wrong place at the wrong time. Two decades later Aug 2007 all hell breaks lose with uncertainty over the conviction, did the witness lie, why didn't the others testify? Social media gets involved as well as journalists, old memories and miss understandings rise to the surface. The story jumps between these two dates and adds an account of the three friends, which I found easy to follow and as I progressed through the book more 'truth' and 'lies' were revealed.
A good psychological read of how adults can influence, direct and lead teenagers creating scenarios where children can doubt their own testimony to the police revealing unreliability of memory under trauma, guilt and responsibility, justice vs truth and how teenagers friendships change overtime warping under the weight of shared secrets. My advice to teens and adults is think very carefully as to why you should lie what might the consequences be if you did.. Very well crafted.
Eighteen years ago, July 1998 three teenage girls—Alex, Jonathan, and Rachel—overheard the brutal murder of a mother and child. Only Alex testified, and her evidence put a man behind bars. Even then, rumours swirled that he wasn’t actually the killer—just a dangerous man in the wrong place at the wrong time. Two decades later Aug 2007 all hell breaks lose with uncertainty over the conviction, did the witness lie, why didn't the others testify? Social media gets involved as well as journalists, old memories and miss understandings rise to the surface. The story jumps between these two dates and adds an account of the three friends, which I found easy to follow and as I progressed through the book more 'truth' and 'lies' were revealed.
A good psychological read of how adults can influence, direct and lead teenagers creating scenarios where children can doubt their own testimony to the police revealing unreliability of memory under trauma, guilt and responsibility, justice vs truth and how teenagers friendships change overtime warping under the weight of shared secrets. My advice to teens and adults is think very carefully as to why you should lie what might the consequences be if you did.. Very well crafted.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Three childhood friends partially witness a terrible crime and their lives are never the same again. Rachel, Jonathan and Alex are as thick as thieves but after this crime , quiet Alex starts to think the other two are keeping something from her. Rachel is the leader of the group and Jonathan who has an abusive father is also happy to be led. We learn a lot about each of them with their unsupportive families and individual insecurities. It is frightening how easily that people's evidence can be influenced by the police and that how small lies can be so hard to go back on despite having unforseen major consequences. The small lies becoming unbroachable secrets.
I felt that the characters in the book all felt so realistic and that their relationships were so well described. The security of the lives of the three all hang precariously balanced as we see that any of several possibilities could send each of them spiralling downwards. The prospect of a convicted murderer being released because of an unsound decision brings the three back together again but the years apart has changed the balance between them. The despair that all three feel is portrayed so well that I started to cringe as to what yet another revelation would result in. An outstanding read.Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
I felt that the characters in the book all felt so realistic and that their relationships were so well described. The security of the lives of the three all hang precariously balanced as we see that any of several possibilities could send each of them spiralling downwards. The prospect of a convicted murderer being released because of an unsound decision brings the three back together again but the years apart has changed the balance between them. The despair that all three feel is portrayed so well that I started to cringe as to what yet another revelation would result in. An outstanding read.Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Summer We Lied by Rebecca Hardy is a gripping, character-driven thriller that explores the long-lasting impact of secrets and the fragile nature of truth. The story moves between two timelines following three teenagers whose lives are forever changed after they witness a horrific crime.
Years later, as doubts emerge about the original conviction, buried lies begin to resurface.
What makes this novel stand out is its focus on perspective. Each character holds their own version of events, and as these viewpoints start to clash, the tension steadily builds. Hardy does a great job of showing how memory, guilt, and loyalty can blur the line between truth and self-preservation.
The pacing is steady, with a strong sense of suspense throughout, although it slows slightly in the middle. The writing is accessible and easy to follow, making it a fast and engaging read.
While some themes could have been explored in more depth, overall, this is a compelling and thought-provoking novel, perfect for readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with layered characters, shifting timelines, and gradually unfolding secrets.
Years later, as doubts emerge about the original conviction, buried lies begin to resurface.
What makes this novel stand out is its focus on perspective. Each character holds their own version of events, and as these viewpoints start to clash, the tension steadily builds. Hardy does a great job of showing how memory, guilt, and loyalty can blur the line between truth and self-preservation.
The pacing is steady, with a strong sense of suspense throughout, although it slows slightly in the middle. The writing is accessible and easy to follow, making it a fast and engaging read.
While some themes could have been explored in more depth, overall, this is a compelling and thought-provoking novel, perfect for readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with layered characters, shifting timelines, and gradually unfolding secrets.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The summer in question was 1989, when 3 mid teens, Alex, Jonathan and Rachel were witnesses to a brutal attack, and, because of the decisions they made, were responsible for a possibly innocent (but definitely evil) man going to prison.
Fast forward to 2007. The three have gone their separate ways and are not in contact. Alex, now an immigration lawyer is shocked to receive a Facebook post from someone threatening to expose her. Jonathan, a teacher, and Rachel, a mother who is just coping, receive similar messages, and they are forced to meet.
This is very cleverly written, the 1988 sections really highlight the pressures on the young teens, from the police with their own agenda, and their families who are more interested in themselves than their children.
The grown-up children have to come to terms with some devastating truths, and the fact that they were badly let down by those who were supposed to help then.
This is an immersive read, exploring grey areas of “truth” and “lies”, and with some truly unexpected twists.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bloomsbury Publishing for the opportunity to read this book.
Fast forward to 2007. The three have gone their separate ways and are not in contact. Alex, now an immigration lawyer is shocked to receive a Facebook post from someone threatening to expose her. Jonathan, a teacher, and Rachel, a mother who is just coping, receive similar messages, and they are forced to meet.
This is very cleverly written, the 1988 sections really highlight the pressures on the young teens, from the police with their own agenda, and their families who are more interested in themselves than their children.
The grown-up children have to come to terms with some devastating truths, and the fact that they were badly let down by those who were supposed to help then.
This is an immersive read, exploring grey areas of “truth” and “lies”, and with some truly unexpected twists.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bloomsbury Publishing for the opportunity to read this book.
April 12, 2026
The Summer We Lied by Rebecca Hardy is a twist-filled summer thriller that aims to keep readers guessing, but for me, it didn’t quite hit the mark.
The novel starts off slowly, and I initially found it a bit confusing, particularly around key character motivations.
As the plot unfolded, I found myself predicting the major twist fairly early, around the 20% mark, which took away some of the suspense. While the book is packed with multiple twists and turns, many of them felt quite predictable, with the exception of one reveal toward the end that did manage to surprise me.
The writing itself is accessible and easy to read, making it a quick page-turner despite its length. However, the story felt overly drawn out at times, with more detail than necessary, which slowed the pacing.
One of the biggest drawbacks for me was the characters - I didn’t find myself connecting with or rooting for any of them, which made it harder to stay emotionally invested in the story.
Overall, while The Summer We Lied has an intriguing premise and plenty of twists, it felt a bit too predictable and overlong to fully deliver on its potential.
The novel starts off slowly, and I initially found it a bit confusing, particularly around key character motivations.
As the plot unfolded, I found myself predicting the major twist fairly early, around the 20% mark, which took away some of the suspense. While the book is packed with multiple twists and turns, many of them felt quite predictable, with the exception of one reveal toward the end that did manage to surprise me.
The writing itself is accessible and easy to read, making it a quick page-turner despite its length. However, the story felt overly drawn out at times, with more detail than necessary, which slowed the pacing.
One of the biggest drawbacks for me was the characters - I didn’t find myself connecting with or rooting for any of them, which made it harder to stay emotionally invested in the story.
Overall, while The Summer We Lied has an intriguing premise and plenty of twists, it felt a bit too predictable and overlong to fully deliver on its potential.
March 8, 2026
The Summer We Lied follows a group of friends whose lives become entangled in a web of lies after a tragic event one summer. As the narrative moves between past and present, the truth about what really happened gradually comes to light. With that, each character carries their own version of the event, and as those perspectives begin to collide, secrets threaten to come to light.
What I really enjoyed in this book was the build up of suspense. The emotional dynamics between the characters felt believable, and the shifting viewpoints added depth to the story. I especially enjoyed how the past and present timelines were woven together, it kept the mystery alive and made me want to keep reading to see how everything connected in the end! At times the pacing in the middle felt a little slower than necessary and while the ending was satisfying and tied things together well, it wasn’t quite as shocking as I had anticipated.
The vibes - If you enjoy character-driven thrillers with layered secrets and a gradually unfolding mystery, this one is definitely worth picking up.
What I really enjoyed in this book was the build up of suspense. The emotional dynamics between the characters felt believable, and the shifting viewpoints added depth to the story. I especially enjoyed how the past and present timelines were woven together, it kept the mystery alive and made me want to keep reading to see how everything connected in the end! At times the pacing in the middle felt a little slower than necessary and while the ending was satisfying and tied things together well, it wasn’t quite as shocking as I had anticipated.
The vibes - If you enjoy character-driven thrillers with layered secrets and a gradually unfolding mystery, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was good, but it just wasn’t great. This book took me SO long to finish, & honestly I think that was just down to it not being for me.
I really enjoyed the back and forth with the timelines, & the multiple POVs. With so many characters in this book, it was really good to get everyone’s POV and backstory. However, the characters were not as well rounded as I would like with a hard hitting story like this. Alex, Rachel & Jonathon in 1989 felt so much younger than they actually were & it really annoyed me. The story also felt like it was dramatised beyond belief - as though we were gearing up to something huge, but than didn’t quite pull through. The twist was good, but it didn’t really shock me as much as it should have done. I felt like the ending just didn’t do it for me either and I felt like I had a lot of questions left unanswered.
I think I possibly could have enjoyed it more if I had binged it, but the fact it took me a week to finish, made it hard to pick up and continue.
Thank you to Netgalley for an early copy of this book :)
I really enjoyed the back and forth with the timelines, & the multiple POVs. With so many characters in this book, it was really good to get everyone’s POV and backstory. However, the characters were not as well rounded as I would like with a hard hitting story like this. Alex, Rachel & Jonathon in 1989 felt so much younger than they actually were & it really annoyed me. The story also felt like it was dramatised beyond belief - as though we were gearing up to something huge, but than didn’t quite pull through. The twist was good, but it didn’t really shock me as much as it should have done. I felt like the ending just didn’t do it for me either and I felt like I had a lot of questions left unanswered.
I think I possibly could have enjoyed it more if I had binged it, but the fact it took me a week to finish, made it hard to pick up and continue.
Thank you to Netgalley for an early copy of this book :)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Review of advanced copy received from NetGalley.
I really enjoyed this one! The Summer We Lied is a compelling look at corruption, social media, and how quickly things can spiral once they’re out in the world.
The story follows multiple POVs and shifts between past and present, which I thought worked really well. It kept things engaging and slowly revealed more of what was really going on. There were definitely a few twists I didn’t see coming, which made it even more fun to read because it kept me guessing the whole time.
One of my favourite parts was the dynamic between the three friends. Their relationships felt real, and I liked seeing how each of them developed individually as the story unfolded.
That said, I did feel like the ending could have had a bit more to it. It wrapped up in a way that felt slightly abrupt and a little random compared to the build-up, and I would have loved just a bit more closure.
Overall though, this was a really engaging and thought-provoking read, especially if you like stories that explore a darker side.
I really enjoyed this one! The Summer We Lied is a compelling look at corruption, social media, and how quickly things can spiral once they’re out in the world.
The story follows multiple POVs and shifts between past and present, which I thought worked really well. It kept things engaging and slowly revealed more of what was really going on. There were definitely a few twists I didn’t see coming, which made it even more fun to read because it kept me guessing the whole time.
One of my favourite parts was the dynamic between the three friends. Their relationships felt real, and I liked seeing how each of them developed individually as the story unfolded.
That said, I did feel like the ending could have had a bit more to it. It wrapped up in a way that felt slightly abrupt and a little random compared to the build-up, and I would have loved just a bit more closure.
Overall though, this was a really engaging and thought-provoking read, especially if you like stories that explore a darker side.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Every now and then, you come across a book that has everything you want from it. This is one of them.
Hanging out together in a place where they are not supposed to be, three teenagers are partial witnesses to a murder, when they overhear a brutal attack taking place. But there are many secrets that they are already keeping - some of those even from each other - so the version of events that they share with the police is not entirely accurate.
The consequences of their choices will reverberate through the following decades, not only in their own lives but also in the lives of others. And when it all becomes too much, they will have to deal with the reckoning that follows.
Beautifully written, full of subtle twists, and peopled with flawed but relatable characters, this is a fantastic read. It gets 4.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Hanging out together in a place where they are not supposed to be, three teenagers are partial witnesses to a murder, when they overhear a brutal attack taking place. But there are many secrets that they are already keeping - some of those even from each other - so the version of events that they share with the police is not entirely accurate.
The consequences of their choices will reverberate through the following decades, not only in their own lives but also in the lives of others. And when it all becomes too much, they will have to deal with the reckoning that follows.
Beautifully written, full of subtle twists, and peopled with flawed but relatable characters, this is a fantastic read. It gets 4.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thoughtful and compelling, The Summer We Lied by Rebecca Hardy is utterly absorbing.
The novel explores the aftermath of a brutal murder in a quiet village and the lasting impact on the lives of three teenagers who overheard it. The narrative unfolds through a fragmented timeline, shifting between 1989 and 2007, and builds a strong sense of unease. The setting is vividly drawn, with scenes of police questioning in oppressive heat reflecting the tangle of half-truths, secrets and misunderstandings surrounding the case.
The characters are skilfully realised. Alex, Jonathan and Rachel each emerge as distinct, their later lives shaped in different ways by what they experienced. The pacing is deliberate and unflinching developing a searing insight into the emotional repercussions of reaching adulthood carrying secrets.
Hardy’s handling of withheld information and ‘bombshell’ is amongst the best I’ve read, both simultaneously shocking and in context. A fantastic read.
The novel explores the aftermath of a brutal murder in a quiet village and the lasting impact on the lives of three teenagers who overheard it. The narrative unfolds through a fragmented timeline, shifting between 1989 and 2007, and builds a strong sense of unease. The setting is vividly drawn, with scenes of police questioning in oppressive heat reflecting the tangle of half-truths, secrets and misunderstandings surrounding the case.
The characters are skilfully realised. Alex, Jonathan and Rachel each emerge as distinct, their later lives shaped in different ways by what they experienced. The pacing is deliberate and unflinching developing a searing insight into the emotional repercussions of reaching adulthood carrying secrets.
Hardy’s handling of withheld information and ‘bombshell’ is amongst the best I’ve read, both simultaneously shocking and in context. A fantastic read.
May 4, 2026
Review of Advance copy from NetGalley
This is a really emotional book with lots of twists to keep you trying to work out where it is going. There is a lot of trauma for the characters which they have carried from childhood after hearing something in the woods near their home. We then go through flashbacks to see how they built up a story to fit the narrative they wanted which turned out to be something they’d been led into by someone else when they had the whole picture.
Some of the characters are quite unlikeable (which I guess they are meant to be) and I found myself mostly drawn to Alex and wanting her to be okay.
From the first page I wanted to keep reading this one and was intrigued by the story.
Glad it didn’t leave any gaping plot holes to annoy me other than one little bit to make you wonder about.
With the flashbacks it does make it feel like it jumps around a bit but all in all it’s a really good story which will pull you in and have you wondering about the truth.
This is a really emotional book with lots of twists to keep you trying to work out where it is going. There is a lot of trauma for the characters which they have carried from childhood after hearing something in the woods near their home. We then go through flashbacks to see how they built up a story to fit the narrative they wanted which turned out to be something they’d been led into by someone else when they had the whole picture.
Some of the characters are quite unlikeable (which I guess they are meant to be) and I found myself mostly drawn to Alex and wanting her to be okay.
From the first page I wanted to keep reading this one and was intrigued by the story.
Glad it didn’t leave any gaping plot holes to annoy me other than one little bit to make you wonder about.
With the flashbacks it does make it feel like it jumps around a bit but all in all it’s a really good story which will pull you in and have you wondering about the truth.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5 ⭐
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read The Summer We Lied by Rebecca Hardy in exchange for an honest review.
This was an interesting and slightly different take on a thriller, with a strong focus on how the past can shape the present. The story follows Alex, who, as a teenager, gave evidence that sent a man to prison, only for new DNA evidence years later to cast doubt on whether the right person was convicted.
I really enjoyed the dual timeline, particularly the sections set in 1988, which felt the most emotive and engaging. You get a good sense of the friendships and pressures the teenagers were under, and I could understand how and why events unfolded the way they did.
Overall, this is a solid read with an interesting premise and strong emotional moments, even if it doesn’t quite hit all the marks.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read The Summer We Lied by Rebecca Hardy in exchange for an honest review.
This was an interesting and slightly different take on a thriller, with a strong focus on how the past can shape the present. The story follows Alex, who, as a teenager, gave evidence that sent a man to prison, only for new DNA evidence years later to cast doubt on whether the right person was convicted.
I really enjoyed the dual timeline, particularly the sections set in 1988, which felt the most emotive and engaging. You get a good sense of the friendships and pressures the teenagers were under, and I could understand how and why events unfolded the way they did.
Overall, this is a solid read with an interesting premise and strong emotional moments, even if it doesn’t quite hit all the marks.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Firstly, thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury Publishing PLC for the opportunity to read this advance copy.
An amazingly written book where the prologue sets the pace and intensity that runs throughout.
I really liked this book and found myself holding my breathe quite a few times while I was reading it. The storyline was well thought out, focusing on three strong characters whose troubled past resurfaced to impact on their adult lives. I found the content of this book scarily modern and full of secrets I didnt expect. I liked the way each chapter had the feeling of a diary entry; always starting with a characters name, the date and place it happened.
A huge well done to Rebecca Hardy. I honestly think this book will be a huge success.
An amazingly written book where the prologue sets the pace and intensity that runs throughout.
I really liked this book and found myself holding my breathe quite a few times while I was reading it. The storyline was well thought out, focusing on three strong characters whose troubled past resurfaced to impact on their adult lives. I found the content of this book scarily modern and full of secrets I didnt expect. I liked the way each chapter had the feeling of a diary entry; always starting with a characters name, the date and place it happened.
A huge well done to Rebecca Hardy. I honestly think this book will be a huge success.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Summer We Lied by Rebecca Hardy is an engaging and twist-filled read that kept me hooked from start to finish. The story shines most through its strong, well-developed characters, each bringing depth and intrigue to the unfolding drama. The plot itself is compelling, layered with plenty of surprises that keep you guessing along the way.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the book, the pacing felt a little uneven at times, some sections moved quickly while others lingered longer than necessary. That said, it didn’t take away too much from the overall experience.
With its intriguing premise, memorable cast, and satisfying twists, this is definitely a book worth picking up, especially if you enjoy character-driven stories with a touch of mystery.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the book, the pacing felt a little uneven at times, some sections moved quickly while others lingered longer than necessary. That said, it didn’t take away too much from the overall experience.
With its intriguing premise, memorable cast, and satisfying twists, this is definitely a book worth picking up, especially if you enjoy character-driven stories with a touch of mystery.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really enjoyed this book!
It was well paced, easy to read and had some good twists and turns.
The writing was simple and effective and not too cliche (there were no breaths released that they didn’t know they’d been holding). The characters were well developed as individuals and the time jumps didn’t feel too confusing or bitty. It was easy to follow and there were some plot twists that I didn’t see coming.
The writing style reminded me of Alice Feeney, with enough description and suspense to keep you hooked without it feeling too much like a word salad.
Would recommend this to fans of Alice Feeney, Freida McFadden etc.
It was well paced, easy to read and had some good twists and turns.
The writing was simple and effective and not too cliche (there were no breaths released that they didn’t know they’d been holding). The characters were well developed as individuals and the time jumps didn’t feel too confusing or bitty. It was easy to follow and there were some plot twists that I didn’t see coming.
The writing style reminded me of Alice Feeney, with enough description and suspense to keep you hooked without it feeling too much like a word salad.
Would recommend this to fans of Alice Feeney, Freida McFadden etc.
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March 17, 2026I really enjoyed this book. 18 years ago, Alex, Jonathan and Rachel were witnesses to a brutal murder. Alex gave evidence at the trial and a man was found guilty. But now, after an appeal, DNA evidence has proved that the wrong man was convicted. All 3 are now terrified of what will happen when the man is released, especially as they know that they didn't tell the truth back then. This is a real page turner that will keep you guessing right to the end!
Thanks to NetGalley for a preview copy.
Thanks to NetGalley for a preview copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
So much happening in this book. Jonathan, Rachel and Alex are reminded of a summer in their teens when they heard an attack on a mother and child but lied to the police about the circumstances. The lies led to a man being convicted and jailed. Now someone is sending letters to those involved, and a journalist is delving deeply in to the events of that day. As the book progresses, many more lies and reasons come to the fore and relationships are pushed to breaking. There are some good plot twists included and the book is pacy in parts.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I love love loved this book. It kept me guessing from beginning to end. The characters came to life through the writing and I felt both sorry and angry in equal measure for Johnathan, Rachel and Alex. The plot twists in places were quite suttle and consequently I missed a few clues along the way making the surprise even bigger as the twists unfolded. I also felt the author delt with the delicate issues of the main characters as children well and highlighted how sometimes things are not as simple to tell as they might at first seem.
I really want a follow up book to tell us how Johnathan, Rachel and Alex's lives panned out from here.🤞. Would highly recommend.
I really want a follow up book to tell us how Johnathan, Rachel and Alex's lives panned out from here.🤞. Would highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Summer we lied is a twisty character driven thriller that blends past trauma with present day consequences, a tense emotionally charged mystery about guilt and truth and the long shadow of a single lie. Set in two time lines 1980's and two decades later three teenagers best friends overhear a brutal double murder ,their testimony sends a man to prison but years later new DNA evidence overturns the conviction forcing the now estranged friends to confront the lies they told and the secrets they kept. A compelling read with a surprising twist at the end .Thank you to Net Galley for my ARC.
April 17, 2026
A man sent to prison eighteen years ago has had his conviction overturned because of new evidence. The person who sent him to prison is now frightened because she lied in her testimony.
I disliked the timeline changes and the many characters recounts that differed throughout the story. I found it hard to connect with the story in parts.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury Publishing for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
I disliked the timeline changes and the many characters recounts that differed throughout the story. I found it hard to connect with the story in parts.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury Publishing for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2026
This was a really well done story that had me drawn in right from the start.
The story has good pace and reveals more depth with each plot twist.
It is a bit far fetched but still had me well invested.
The web of lies goes on and one but the ending managed to tie up all the loose ends, and there were quite a few.
I really enjoyed and would recommend
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for the arc
The story has good pace and reveals more depth with each plot twist.
It is a bit far fetched but still had me well invested.
The web of lies goes on and one but the ending managed to tie up all the loose ends, and there were quite a few.
I really enjoyed and would recommend
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for the arc
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Absolutely loved this one! Couldn’t put it down – twists and turns galore that had me hooked.
Seeing the characters as kids and then as adults and then jumping between the time zones and trying to put it all together........ all the secrets and missteps......
One of those books that sticks with you long after the last page. Can’t recommend it enough!
Seeing the characters as kids and then as adults and then jumping between the time zones and trying to put it all together........ all the secrets and missteps......
One of those books that sticks with you long after the last page. Can’t recommend it enough!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Totally hooked from start to finish. What a great read! Was very suspenseful and some great, unexpected twists. Very well written and highly recommended. I was lucky enough to read an advance copy and leave this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 stars
Thank you NetGallery for my ARC.
Enjoyable read, that I could hardly put down.
Uncomfortable at times. (Descriptions of attacks/murders.)
Some twists I predicted, some I definitely didn't.
Thank you NetGallery for my ARC.
Enjoyable read, that I could hardly put down.
Uncomfortable at times. (Descriptions of attacks/murders.)
Some twists I predicted, some I definitely didn't.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Summer We Lied* by Rebecca Hardy is an upcoming debut suspense thriller set for release on 7th July. Set across dual timelines and told from multiple POVs, three teenagers ditching school during a heatwave overhear a murder take place. As their small English village reels from the loss of a mother and her child, Alex, Rachel and Jonathan believe they can identify the killer and their evidence sends a man to jail.
Fast forward almost two decades and the trio, now estranged, begin receiving cryptic social media messages suggesting that they lied, and that they will soon be found out. As the walls begin to close in on Alex, the only one who testified, she reaches back out to her old friends in the hope of finding support, instead uncovering a series of evermore harrowing betrayals from that long, hot summer in 1998.
This is a well-paced debut with multiple twists - potentially one or two too many if I am being picky - that pack a decent emotional punch. Alongside the murder investigation itself, there’s a significant arc of small town family drama that I always gravitate towards. I feel like this book will be an airport bestseller during the summer holiday season.
Fast forward almost two decades and the trio, now estranged, begin receiving cryptic social media messages suggesting that they lied, and that they will soon be found out. As the walls begin to close in on Alex, the only one who testified, she reaches back out to her old friends in the hope of finding support, instead uncovering a series of evermore harrowing betrayals from that long, hot summer in 1998.
This is a well-paced debut with multiple twists - potentially one or two too many if I am being picky - that pack a decent emotional punch. Alongside the murder investigation itself, there’s a significant arc of small town family drama that I always gravitate towards. I feel like this book will be an airport bestseller during the summer holiday season.
Review of advance copy
I got the privilege from my local new bookstore Clutter Books to read and review this book.
The Summer We Lied by Rebecca Hardy is a gripping and emotionally intense read that kept me hooked from start to finish. What stood out most was the constant stream of twists, each section seemed to reveal a new bombshell, making it difficult to put the book down.
The story explores a range of heavy and thought-provoking themes, including violence, domestic abuse, child abuse, harassment, and the strain caused by dishonesty among close friends and family. These elements are handled in a way that feels raw and impactful, showing how deeply such experiences can shape people’s lives.
One of the most interesting aspects of the novel is its structure. The narrative shifts between past and present, following different characters and gradually revealing how past events have influenced their current lives. This dual timeline adds depth to the story and builds suspense, as the reader slowly pieces together what really happened and the lasting consequences for everyone involved.
Overall, I found The Summer We Lied to be a powerful and engaging book, with a compelling structure and unforgettable twists that leave a lasting impression.
The Summer We Lied by Rebecca Hardy is a gripping and emotionally intense read that kept me hooked from start to finish. What stood out most was the constant stream of twists, each section seemed to reveal a new bombshell, making it difficult to put the book down.
The story explores a range of heavy and thought-provoking themes, including violence, domestic abuse, child abuse, harassment, and the strain caused by dishonesty among close friends and family. These elements are handled in a way that feels raw and impactful, showing how deeply such experiences can shape people’s lives.
One of the most interesting aspects of the novel is its structure. The narrative shifts between past and present, following different characters and gradually revealing how past events have influenced their current lives. This dual timeline adds depth to the story and builds suspense, as the reader slowly pieces together what really happened and the lasting consequences for everyone involved.
Overall, I found The Summer We Lied to be a powerful and engaging book, with a compelling structure and unforgettable twists that leave a lasting impression.
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