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Jess Lambert #3
All The Lies We See
Framed for murder. A viral video proves it. The case she abandoned after her daughter died could save—or destroy her, from the USA Today bestselling author of The Night Olivia Fell.
Detective Jess Lambert is days away from the trial of the woman accused of killing her daughter when she wakes in a seedy hotel room with no memory of how she got there. On her phone is a viral video showing Jess calmly shooting the woman in cold blood.
As the footage spreads and her own department closes in, Jess has no choice but to run. Someone has engineered her downfall, and the only way to survive is to uncover who’s turning her past into a weapon. Desperate to clear her name, she follows the only lead she has—an unsolved case she abandoned after her daughter died that now holds the key to who set her up.
But the closer Jess gets to the truth, the more she realizes it may not be enough. Because when people prefer the lie, even reality becomes irrelevant.
Detective Jess Lambert is days away from the trial of the woman accused of killing her daughter when she wakes in a seedy hotel room with no memory of how she got there. On her phone is a viral video showing Jess calmly shooting the woman in cold blood.
As the footage spreads and her own department closes in, Jess has no choice but to run. Someone has engineered her downfall, and the only way to survive is to uncover who’s turning her past into a weapon. Desperate to clear her name, she follows the only lead she has—an unsolved case she abandoned after her daughter died that now holds the key to who set her up.
But the closer Jess gets to the truth, the more she realizes it may not be enough. Because when people prefer the lie, even reality becomes irrelevant.
Paperback
First published July 7, 2026
About the author
Christina McDonald
12 books2,985 followersAbout this author
Christina McDonald is the award-winning, USA Today and Amazon charts bestselling author of What Lies In Darkness, The Stranger At Black Lake, These Still Black Waters, Do No Harm, Behind Every Lie and The Night Olivia Fell, which has been optioned for television by a major Hollywood studio. Originally from Seattle, Washington, she now lives in London, England, with her husband, two sons, and their dog, Tango.
Christina McDonald is the award-winning, USA Today and Amazon charts bestselling author of What Lies In Darkness, The Stranger At Black Lake, These Still Black Waters, Do No Harm, Behind Every Lie and The Night Olivia Fell, which has been optioned for television by a major Hollywood studio. Originally from Seattle, Washington, she now lives in London, England, with her husband, two sons, and their dog, Tango.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
April 13, 2026
All The Lies We See
By: Christina McDonald
Pub Date: July 7, 2026
Tour: Thriller Book Lovers THE PULSE
This series is so fun and evolving. Jess Lambert is a detective and always finds herself in the thick of things. This time she really is in the middle and “caught on tape” of a murder. THE PULSE loves this series.
Of course, Jess knows this is not her, but when the video goes viral, she has to prove her innocence. With AI these days, we see things everywhere and have to wonder what is true. Scary times, for sure.
Whom can she trust to help her prove her innocence? Why are people so quick to judge a video, not knowing the whole story?
This story is fast-paced and McDonald has created a character I love. I highly recommend others in this series, These Still Black Waters, What Lies in Darkness and The Stranger at Black Lake.
By: Christina McDonald
Pub Date: July 7, 2026
Tour: Thriller Book Lovers THE PULSE
This series is so fun and evolving. Jess Lambert is a detective and always finds herself in the thick of things. This time she really is in the middle and “caught on tape” of a murder. THE PULSE loves this series.
Of course, Jess knows this is not her, but when the video goes viral, she has to prove her innocence. With AI these days, we see things everywhere and have to wonder what is true. Scary times, for sure.
Whom can she trust to help her prove her innocence? Why are people so quick to judge a video, not knowing the whole story?
This story is fast-paced and McDonald has created a character I love. I highly recommend others in this series, These Still Black Waters, What Lies in Darkness and The Stranger at Black Lake.
April 10, 2026
Detective Jess Lambert is one of my most favorite characters since reading book one in this series and book three definitely did not disappoint.. This was absolutely tense, a race against time and fighting to prove innocence.. But also very emotional and hits you hard.. A must read along with the first two books in this series..
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to the author and Netgalley for the arc to read and review.
I'd like to start off by saying that these books deal with grief in such a real and emotional way. I suffered an unexpected death/tragedy last summer, so I can say that some of the emotions, questions, feelings, guilt, -everything- are things that I've felt and had to deal with and work on overcoming to get to the 'otherside'. It was hard to read in a way, but also nice because I'm not alone - even if this is a fiction - people deal with these things all the time. There were many quotes that I highlighted that resonated with me, which I'll add once the book is published.
Now, for the book as a whole. Well written as always, flows well, solid character development, entertaining, the internal and external struggles are relatable. This book focuses on AI, which is quickly taking over, and it shows how that can change police work, social media and overall perception.
I'm not sure if this is the final installment, but if it is - it is a solid ending. I really enjoyed this book.
I'd like to start off by saying that these books deal with grief in such a real and emotional way. I suffered an unexpected death/tragedy last summer, so I can say that some of the emotions, questions, feelings, guilt, -everything- are things that I've felt and had to deal with and work on overcoming to get to the 'otherside'. It was hard to read in a way, but also nice because I'm not alone - even if this is a fiction - people deal with these things all the time. There were many quotes that I highlighted that resonated with me, which I'll add once the book is published.
Now, for the book as a whole. Well written as always, flows well, solid character development, entertaining, the internal and external struggles are relatable. This book focuses on AI, which is quickly taking over, and it shows how that can change police work, social media and overall perception.
I'm not sure if this is the final installment, but if it is - it is a solid ending. I really enjoyed this book.
June 7, 2026
This is a terrific addition to the Jess Lambert police detective series!
This story is a satisfying thriller with a propulsive writing style and with twists and turns that pull you in. But it also goes deeper, touching on living with grief, finding out the lines you’ll cross, and highlighting the thin line AI creates between truth and belief.
Jess is one of my favourite police detectives and this installment further develops her character as she is forced to come to terms with her (internal) demons. I felt like I knew her, cared about her, and was there inside her head. I love thrillers with characters that show depth and growth.
The ending was really good, pulling the series in a different direction. In an afterword, the author noted that she had written a different ending (that you can receive from her which I did). I am torn between which I liked better - both will impact Jess’ (and her husband’s) life and how she moves forward - but I think the ending she went with was ultimately the one that made me consider the ending long after I turned the last page.
Highly recommend this series!
Thanks to the publisher for the complimentary digital copy. All opinions are my own.
This story is a satisfying thriller with a propulsive writing style and with twists and turns that pull you in. But it also goes deeper, touching on living with grief, finding out the lines you’ll cross, and highlighting the thin line AI creates between truth and belief.
Jess is one of my favourite police detectives and this installment further develops her character as she is forced to come to terms with her (internal) demons. I felt like I knew her, cared about her, and was there inside her head. I love thrillers with characters that show depth and growth.
The ending was really good, pulling the series in a different direction. In an afterword, the author noted that she had written a different ending (that you can receive from her which I did). I am torn between which I liked better - both will impact Jess’ (and her husband’s) life and how she moves forward - but I think the ending she went with was ultimately the one that made me consider the ending long after I turned the last page.
Highly recommend this series!
Thanks to the publisher for the complimentary digital copy. All opinions are my own.
April 17, 2026
Jess Lambert is back to for the third/fourth book in the series (there is a prequel). This book is more personal than her others because Jess is the suspect. Isla, her daughter whose ghost she sees, is a unique part of the story. The fact that Jess can see ghosts at all is unique. I enjoyed this story and watching Jess fight her inner demons. This is a great crime novel with a lot of character focus.
July 7, 2026
This book is intense suspense at its best with the bonus of Jess Lambert talking to dead people in order to get inspiration for the next steps in her investigation. From the beginning, this novel captivated my imagination with Jess in deep trouble and suspected of murdering the woman who is responsible for her daughter’s death. There are a lot of references to the previous two books, making this one easy to be read and enjoyed as a standalone. Jess has to solve her own case while staying hidden from authorities and tying to find answers about who made the deep fake that incriminates her. The plot is complex, the clues and red herrings numerous and the story itself mesmerizing. With a fast pace and a likable protagonist, this book was definitely a slam dunk for me in the mystery/suspense categories. I enjoyed Jess’s unorthodox methods of solving the case as well as her determination and grit in the face of so much opposition. Part police procedural, part mystery, and part suspense, this book is not to be missed by those who like to follow the clues and guess whodunit.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
June 26, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I've been a fan of Christina McDonald ever since her very first novel, and All the Lies We See is another fantastic reminder of why. She has a gift for crafting emotionally rich, twist-filled stories that keep you guessing until the very end. The characters feel authentic, the suspense is perfectly paced, and every revelation adds another layer to the mystery.
Beyond being an incredibly talented author, Christina is also one of the sweetest people I've ever had the pleasure of talking to. That genuine kindness comes through in the care she puts into her stories and her connection with readers. I can't recommend this book highly enough, and I already can't wait to see what she writes next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow… what a fantastic addition to this series!
When I heard that Christina McDonald was releasing another Jessica Lambert installment, I was beyond excited—and All the Lies We See did not disappoint.
This series continues to get stronger with every book, and book #3 proves that Jessica Lambert is a character worth following. Chilling, suspenseful, and darker than its predecessors, this may be my favorite installment yet.
The pacing is relentless, the suspense is expertly crafted, and the story is so immersive that I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. From the very first chapter, I was completely invested.
What resonated with me most was the emotional depth. The heartbreak felt raw and authentic, making it impossible not to connect with the characters. Their pain felt tangible, and I found myself experiencing every twist and revelation right alongside them. Christina McDonald’s writing is both gripping and deeply emotional, striking the perfect balance between suspense and heart.
The conclusion was powerful, satisfying, and felt exactly right for this story.
A thrilling, emotional, and unforgettable read that further solidifies this series as one of my favorites.
Thank you so much to Christina McDonald for providing me with an eARC. All opinions are my own.
When I heard that Christina McDonald was releasing another Jessica Lambert installment, I was beyond excited—and All the Lies We See did not disappoint.
This series continues to get stronger with every book, and book #3 proves that Jessica Lambert is a character worth following. Chilling, suspenseful, and darker than its predecessors, this may be my favorite installment yet.
The pacing is relentless, the suspense is expertly crafted, and the story is so immersive that I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. From the very first chapter, I was completely invested.
What resonated with me most was the emotional depth. The heartbreak felt raw and authentic, making it impossible not to connect with the characters. Their pain felt tangible, and I found myself experiencing every twist and revelation right alongside them. Christina McDonald’s writing is both gripping and deeply emotional, striking the perfect balance between suspense and heart.
The conclusion was powerful, satisfying, and felt exactly right for this story.
A thrilling, emotional, and unforgettable read that further solidifies this series as one of my favorites.
Thank you so much to Christina McDonald for providing me with an eARC. All opinions are my own.
July 7, 2026
All The Lies We See 4 ⭐️
(A Jess Lambert Thriller, Book 3)
I studied up before jumping into Book 3 and read books 1-3 of the Jess Lambert series back to back. What a great series!
In All The Lies We See, Jess ditches her detective role and turns to a fugitive lifestyle when a video shows her clearly killing someone. This is someone who has severely negatively impacted her life. Someone Jess literally hates. So, why wouldn’t people believe what they see? Even Jess questions what truly happened during that blacked out missing time. This was much more fast paced and, I’ll admit, a bit over-the-top at times compared to the earlier books in the series. As an extra bonus, the author offers an alternate ending that can be requested through her website. I highly recommend this series and they should be read in order to make the most sense of each storyline.
Thank you to NetGalley and Intrigue Ink Publishing for this ARC. This review will be shared on NetGalley and Goodreads.
Pub Date Jul 07 2026
(A Jess Lambert Thriller, Book 3)
I studied up before jumping into Book 3 and read books 1-3 of the Jess Lambert series back to back. What a great series!
In All The Lies We See, Jess ditches her detective role and turns to a fugitive lifestyle when a video shows her clearly killing someone. This is someone who has severely negatively impacted her life. Someone Jess literally hates. So, why wouldn’t people believe what they see? Even Jess questions what truly happened during that blacked out missing time. This was much more fast paced and, I’ll admit, a bit over-the-top at times compared to the earlier books in the series. As an extra bonus, the author offers an alternate ending that can be requested through her website. I highly recommend this series and they should be read in order to make the most sense of each storyline.
Thank you to NetGalley and Intrigue Ink Publishing for this ARC. This review will be shared on NetGalley and Goodreads.
Pub Date Jul 07 2026
Review of advance copy received from Author
(4.5/5)
So excited to be part of ThrillerBookLovers The Pulse to get an early look at All The Lies We See. Thanks to Christina McDonald for inviting us in this book tour. This is Book 3 in the Jess Lambert thrillers, and as with the others, it did not disappoint! I love a good thriller series! This book can be read as a stand-alone, but I highly suggest reading the previous books.
Jess is impatiently awaiting the trial of the woman who caused the accident that killed her daughter. She wakes in an unsavory hotel room with no memory off how she got there. The next thing she knows, a video of her shooting a woman in cold blood is going viral. As her department closes in, she runs to figure out who is framing her. With all the evidence building against her and another video surfaces, she finds herself at a race against time.
I fell in love with Jess from the beginning. She’s tough, a no nonsense detective who has had more than her share of tragedy. This book had my heart pounding from the beginning and didn’t let up. The videos will have you questioning everything. This book is filled with flawed, realistic characters that will keep you turning the pages to see how her story ends. The paranormal aspects are my favorite. I’m not sure if there will be a Book 4, but if there is, sign me up! There was an alternate ending provided, one I think I might actually prefer.
This is my honest opinion.
So excited to be part of ThrillerBookLovers The Pulse to get an early look at All The Lies We See. Thanks to Christina McDonald for inviting us in this book tour. This is Book 3 in the Jess Lambert thrillers, and as with the others, it did not disappoint! I love a good thriller series! This book can be read as a stand-alone, but I highly suggest reading the previous books.
Jess is impatiently awaiting the trial of the woman who caused the accident that killed her daughter. She wakes in an unsavory hotel room with no memory off how she got there. The next thing she knows, a video of her shooting a woman in cold blood is going viral. As her department closes in, she runs to figure out who is framing her. With all the evidence building against her and another video surfaces, she finds herself at a race against time.
I fell in love with Jess from the beginning. She’s tough, a no nonsense detective who has had more than her share of tragedy. This book had my heart pounding from the beginning and didn’t let up. The videos will have you questioning everything. This book is filled with flawed, realistic characters that will keep you turning the pages to see how her story ends. The paranormal aspects are my favorite. I’m not sure if there will be a Book 4, but if there is, sign me up! There was an alternate ending provided, one I think I might actually prefer.
This is my honest opinion.
April 7, 2026
Thank you @thrillerbookloversthepulse and the author #partner for the gifted copy.
This series is a favorite of mine, so I was excited to learn about book three! I love Jess Lambert. She’s one of my favorite characters. She’s a strong female lead who toes the line while trying to do what’s right in the name of justice.
In book three, Jess is hopeful that the woman responsible for her daughter Isla’s death will finally be put away. However, Jess finds herself in a hotel room with no memory of what happened. She quickly learns that she’s being framed for murder. It all centers around AI-generated videos and a woman desperate to avoid serving time.
This book was everything I expected action-packed, fast-paced, yet emotional. There’s a lot to unpack, but it’s not one you’ll want to miss!
This series is a favorite of mine, so I was excited to learn about book three! I love Jess Lambert. She’s one of my favorite characters. She’s a strong female lead who toes the line while trying to do what’s right in the name of justice.
In book three, Jess is hopeful that the woman responsible for her daughter Isla’s death will finally be put away. However, Jess finds herself in a hotel room with no memory of what happened. She quickly learns that she’s being framed for murder. It all centers around AI-generated videos and a woman desperate to avoid serving time.
This book was everything I expected action-packed, fast-paced, yet emotional. There’s a lot to unpack, but it’s not one you’ll want to miss!
July 9, 2026
Jess Lambert is back with another twisted case that has put a target on her back and has her personally involved. The case of the death of her daughter is back in the spotlight when Jess wakes up in a shady hotel room with no recollection of what happened to her or the night before. However there are videos that have gone viral showing her killing two people, one of them she has dreamed of killing many times before. But how can that be? How do you not remember shooting someone? She knows the only way to find out what really happened and to prove her innocence is to stay out of the hands of law enforcement and she needs to call in some favors to find the proof of how those videos were made, who made them and why? With the help of Mac and a few other trustworthy friends that believe in her innocence, they dig into the dark world of AI. While she is trying to prove her innocence, she continues to have a visitor and her daughter is nudging Jess to help this lady. Another one who is still stuck here but as Jess realizes who this lady is, she remembers this case and it happened right around the time of her accident. The more she looks into her death, the more she realizes just how tangled things have become between her and this murdered woman. I am really curious to see the direction Jess goes next with everything that came out towards the end. Really looking forward to another book in this series. Thank you to the author and Netgalley for the complementary ebook. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
April 8, 2026
My spoiler free review of All The Lies We See by Christina McDonald coming out July 7th
Thank you so much #thrillerbookloversthepulse and #christinamac9 for the opportunity to read this book.
This is a solid 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the 3rd book in the Jess Lambert series. I fell in love with Jess right away in the first book These Still Black Waters. Jess has suffered an immeasurable loss, her daughter Isla. She is trying to move past it by taking on other cases. Now, the trial is upon her of the woman who killed her daughter. She has waited for justice to be served. But as the trial gets closer, a video surfaces of her shooting the woman who killed her daughter. An expert took a look at the video and is certain it is AI. But more things keep happening that try to debunk that theory. Jess has no choice but to run so give her time to prove her innocence. Maybe it’s the stress of the trial, maybe it’s the visions of seeing her daughter and her daughter trying to tell her something that makes her start to question herself. Is someone setting her up or is there something else happening. This was such a fast paced and gripping read. I knew I would enjoy it because I loved the first two books, but I was blown away. This is one of the best series I read in a long time. You can read it as a standalone, but it’s so much better when you read the first two. This is going to be the must read of the summer!
May 8, 2026
A perfect addition to the Jess Lambert Series! As it seems justice is finally going to be served for the person who caused the accident that took her daughter's life, Jess's life is turned upside down. As accusing video starts showing up on social media about Jess, how can she prove they are lies? Trying to figure out who is responsible for the videos and keep herself from being arrested will have you turning the pages to see what happens next. While waiting patiently on my pre order and the release date of July 7, I had the opportunity to read it on NetGalley!
April 23, 2026
Loved!!!!! This series and author is one of my favorites and this book proved why. Where do I start? Well what I love the most about this series is that there is a paranormal aspect. I’m not that big into the paranormal but the way it’s used in this book is awesome. I also love Jess Lambert. She is what makes this series. They show the good, the bad and the ugly with this character. She really has grown throughout the series too. I found the plot to be really interesting with this one. Once I read the blurb I knew I wouldn’t be able to put this one down. I was totally right, I couldn’t. I raced through book as fast as I could to find out what was going on. Now let’s talk about that ending. It’s was full of twists and turns that I did not see coming. I was like OMG after every chapter towards the end. I highly recommend this author and all her books not just this series. I can’t wait for this authors next book.
April 25, 2026
Christina never disappoints. This is her at her best. This story will keep you on the edge of your seat. This story is wrapped around things facing us every day in this expanding world of the internet and of AI. Make one wonder who can you really trust.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
FAN-FAVORITE DETECTIVE RETURNS
"Jess Lambert takes on her most vulnerable, high-stakes manhunt yet."
Christina McDonald makes a triumphant return with the highly anticipated conclusion to her beloved Detective Jess Lambert series in the gripping finale, ALL THE LIES WE SEE. Renowned for her ability to craft emotionally charged, heart-pounding domestic suspense, McDonald showcases her mastery in this exhilarating installment.
As the third full-length book in the Jess Lambert series—fourth if you count the captivating novella prequel—this narrative deftly weaves together all the unresolved threads and tensions, providing readers with a deeply satisfying and impactful conclusion that will leave you breathless.
Elevator Pitch: Waking up in a seedy motel with a viral video framing her for murder, a grieving detective must flee her own department and use a buried cold case to hunt down the person weaponizing her past.
Intro: This third installment in the phenomenal Detective Jess Lambert series handles the terrifying reality of deepfake AI paranoia with devastatingly addictive precision.
Her Daughter: The tragedy surrounding Jess’s daughter, Isla Lambert, forms the emotional core of the entire mystery. Isla died in a horrific car accident before the events of the series. The vehicle that struck Isla’s car was driven by a woman who was subsequently arrested and charged. The final book opens just days before this woman is set to go to trial for Isla's death.
The Cold Case Connection: Immediately after Isla died, a grief-stricken Jess abandoned an ongoing, unsolved investigation she had been working on. Could it be connected?
Vibe: A high-tech nightmare crashing headfirst into an old-school noir cold case. It gives off heavy "running on pure adrenaline and grief" energy—combining the claustrophobic panic of being hunted by your own team with the haunting, gritty determination of a mother seeking justice.
DIGITAL DEEPFAKES & DEADLY FRAMES
"When public opinion prefers the lie, the truth becomes irrelevant."
Expect high stakes, brilliant tropes, and emotional depth!
Pacing: ⏱️ Relentless, breakneck speed from the opening chapter that never allows you to catch your breath.
Setting: The dark, rainy, atmospheric backdrop of a Pacific Northwest department under pressure.
Genre: Psychological Suspense / High-Tech Domestic Thriller / Police Procedural.
Themes: The terrifying weaponization of digital media, generational grief, trusting your intuition against overwhelming visual proof, and the corruptive weight of buried secrets.
Standout Character: Detective Jess Lambert, holding the entire chaotic story together on absolute fumes while still reeling from her daughter's tragic death.
Author Writing Standout: McDonald is a master of building deep, empathetic connections to broken characters. She takes the viral, high-concept fear of AI framing and masterfully roots it in human, emotional trauma.
Takeaway: When a digital lie goes viral, the truth becomes the hardest thing in the world to prove.
Title Significance: ALL THE LIES WE SEE underscores the overarching conflict of the plot—the terrifying realization that sight can be manipulated, forcing Jess to hunt for hidden truths beyond the visual frame.
Why You Should Read: It shatters the typical procedural formula by throwing its brilliant investigator completely off the grid, demanding she dissect her own psychological blind spots to clear her name.
A PEAK SERIES MOMENT
A super fan, celebrating 7 years of reading Christina McDonald’s finest, starting with her debut (2019), The Night Olivia Fell. She just keeps getting better, if that is possible.
My Thoughts:
Having proudly read every masterpiece in Christina McDonald's spectacular catalog over the last 12 years of my blog, this entry shows an author at the absolute peak of her powers. It beautifully builds on the dark foundations of These Still Black Waters and What Lies in Darkness, pushing Jess into absolute chaos mode from the first line. The integration of cutting-edge tech paranoia alongside McDonald's signature, spine-tingling paranormal undercurrents makes this standalone-accessible puzzle a total standout. It's twisted, unpredictable, and cements Jess as my all-time favorite detective.
Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5 Stars)
—"A tour de force in modern tech-suspense that will leave your heart pounding."
Series: While you can read this as a standalone, I would highly recommend starting with the novella prequel, The Stranger At Black Lake, These Still Black Waters, What Lies in Darkness, and the finale, All The Lies We See in this order. You do not want to miss a thing! While you are at it, I highly recommend her entire backlist.
Recs: Perfect for fans of Christina McDonald, and authors Lisa Gardner, Samantha Downing, Lisa Unger, Karin Slaughter, or anyone obsessed with high-stakes, breathless manhunt thrillers.
LitLiftMiniAuthorChat: Stay tuned for my July featured #LitLiftMiniAuthorChat (with new rapid fire fun questions) about the book & author coming July 7, pub day. (my blog)
Many thanks to Intrigue Ink Publishing and Netgalley for providing an advanced reading copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Blog review posted at
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: July 7, 2026
July Featured #LitLiftMiniAuthorChat
July 2026 Must-Read Books
"Jess Lambert takes on her most vulnerable, high-stakes manhunt yet."
Christina McDonald makes a triumphant return with the highly anticipated conclusion to her beloved Detective Jess Lambert series in the gripping finale, ALL THE LIES WE SEE. Renowned for her ability to craft emotionally charged, heart-pounding domestic suspense, McDonald showcases her mastery in this exhilarating installment.
As the third full-length book in the Jess Lambert series—fourth if you count the captivating novella prequel—this narrative deftly weaves together all the unresolved threads and tensions, providing readers with a deeply satisfying and impactful conclusion that will leave you breathless.
Elevator Pitch: Waking up in a seedy motel with a viral video framing her for murder, a grieving detective must flee her own department and use a buried cold case to hunt down the person weaponizing her past.
Intro: This third installment in the phenomenal Detective Jess Lambert series handles the terrifying reality of deepfake AI paranoia with devastatingly addictive precision.
Her Daughter: The tragedy surrounding Jess’s daughter, Isla Lambert, forms the emotional core of the entire mystery. Isla died in a horrific car accident before the events of the series. The vehicle that struck Isla’s car was driven by a woman who was subsequently arrested and charged. The final book opens just days before this woman is set to go to trial for Isla's death.
The Cold Case Connection: Immediately after Isla died, a grief-stricken Jess abandoned an ongoing, unsolved investigation she had been working on. Could it be connected?
Vibe: A high-tech nightmare crashing headfirst into an old-school noir cold case. It gives off heavy "running on pure adrenaline and grief" energy—combining the claustrophobic panic of being hunted by your own team with the haunting, gritty determination of a mother seeking justice.
DIGITAL DEEPFAKES & DEADLY FRAMES
"When public opinion prefers the lie, the truth becomes irrelevant."
The Vibe Check
📱 Modern AI/deepfake framing & viral video plots.
🚔 Complex, beautifully flawed detective on the run.
👻 Dark, psychological thrills mixed with a lingering touch of the paranormal.
🌲 Gritty, secrets-filled Pacific Northwest police thrillers.
Expect high stakes, brilliant tropes, and emotional depth!
Pacing: ⏱️ Relentless, breakneck speed from the opening chapter that never allows you to catch your breath.
Setting: The dark, rainy, atmospheric backdrop of a Pacific Northwest department under pressure.
Genre: Psychological Suspense / High-Tech Domestic Thriller / Police Procedural.
Themes: The terrifying weaponization of digital media, generational grief, trusting your intuition against overwhelming visual proof, and the corruptive weight of buried secrets.
Standout Character: Detective Jess Lambert, holding the entire chaotic story together on absolute fumes while still reeling from her daughter's tragic death.
Author Writing Standout: McDonald is a master of building deep, empathetic connections to broken characters. She takes the viral, high-concept fear of AI framing and masterfully roots it in human, emotional trauma.
Takeaway: When a digital lie goes viral, the truth becomes the hardest thing in the world to prove.
Title Significance: ALL THE LIES WE SEE underscores the overarching conflict of the plot—the terrifying realization that sight can be manipulated, forcing Jess to hunt for hidden truths beyond the visual frame.
Why You Should Read: It shatters the typical procedural formula by throwing its brilliant investigator completely off the grid, demanding she dissect her own psychological blind spots to clear her name.
A PEAK SERIES MOMENT
A super fan, celebrating 7 years of reading Christina McDonald’s finest, starting with her debut (2019), The Night Olivia Fell. She just keeps getting better, if that is possible.
My Thoughts:
Having proudly read every masterpiece in Christina McDonald's spectacular catalog over the last 12 years of my blog, this entry shows an author at the absolute peak of her powers. It beautifully builds on the dark foundations of These Still Black Waters and What Lies in Darkness, pushing Jess into absolute chaos mode from the first line. The integration of cutting-edge tech paranoia alongside McDonald's signature, spine-tingling paranormal undercurrents makes this standalone-accessible puzzle a total standout. It's twisted, unpredictable, and cements Jess as my all-time favorite detective.
Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5 Stars)
—"A tour de force in modern tech-suspense that will leave your heart pounding."
Series: While you can read this as a standalone, I would highly recommend starting with the novella prequel, The Stranger At Black Lake, These Still Black Waters, What Lies in Darkness, and the finale, All The Lies We See in this order. You do not want to miss a thing! While you are at it, I highly recommend her entire backlist.
Recs: Perfect for fans of Christina McDonald, and authors Lisa Gardner, Samantha Downing, Lisa Unger, Karin Slaughter, or anyone obsessed with high-stakes, breathless manhunt thrillers.
LitLiftMiniAuthorChat: Stay tuned for my July featured #LitLiftMiniAuthorChat (with new rapid fire fun questions) about the book & author coming July 7, pub day. (my blog)
Many thanks to Intrigue Ink Publishing and Netgalley for providing an advanced reading copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Blog review posted at
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: July 7, 2026
July Featured #LitLiftMiniAuthorChat
July 2026 Must-Read Books
April 10, 2026
I have been so excited for this next installment of the Jess Lambert series! She an amazing character full of wit and heart and now she’s working tireless to solve the biggest case of her life-her own! Right from the start, Jess knew something was wrong when she woke up in a strange hotel room but didn’t know that she being framed for murder! Fortunately, she had tremendous support in searching for clues as to who was behind the set up. What I love most about this series is the supernatural element of Jess’s relationship with her deceased daughter who guides her along the way. She’s also open to receiving messages from other souls who have passed as well! It’s a comforting and uplifting feeling to have an insight into those who have lied and wronged us and I felt every one of Jess’s emotions throughout. I can’t imagine living with the constant pain and remorse that Jess endures on a daily basis but love how she uses it to power herself for good.
May 30, 2026
I love this series and the latest installment keeps the momentum going! Video of Jess committing a most heinous crime against the woman who is accused of killing her daughter has gone viral, yet Jess swears she didn’t do it despite having no memories of the night before. Did she? Didn’t she? The supernatural aspect is intriguing and enhances without being over the top, and combined with digital forensics, creates a unique investigation experience in this book. I just want Jess to find happiness again, because she deserves it.
June 16, 2026
“When people prefer the lie, the truth- reality- is irrelevant.”
Christina is such an evil mastermind! Anytime she drops a new Jess Lambert book you best believe I’m reading it! The amount of jaw dropping moments, twists and turns in every book is crazy! The added bonus of paranormal moments is what keeps this one interesting. I don’t know how you continue to do it Christina! This has easily become one of my favorite series and I’m normally a stand alone girlie. Go add this series to your TBR now! Trust me 🤪
Christina is such an evil mastermind! Anytime she drops a new Jess Lambert book you best believe I’m reading it! The amount of jaw dropping moments, twists and turns in every book is crazy! The added bonus of paranormal moments is what keeps this one interesting. I don’t know how you continue to do it Christina! This has easily become one of my favorite series and I’m normally a stand alone girlie. Go add this series to your TBR now! Trust me 🤪
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Title: All the Lies we See
Series: Jess Lambert #3
Author: Christina McDonald
Publisher: Intrigue Ink Publishing
Genre: Thriller
Pub Date: July 7, 2026
My Rating: 4.3 stars
Pages: 350
This is my fifth Christina McDonald novel. I totally loved the first three I read and became a fan! My fourth was a Jess Lambert and it was good but. . .. ..
My comment was ~ Story read like a Karin Slaughter story-In that Ms. Slaughter likes to put readers “out of their comfort zone”.
Although I was glued to the story, I admit I was definitely ‘out of my comfort zone’!
So had mixed feelings going into this story.
This story starts with Detective Jess Lambert and her lawyer husband Mac are trying to adjust to the death if their daughter and wanting justice. They are impatiently awaiting the trial of the woman who really caused the accident that killed her daughter
In the earlier book I wrote~
Detective Jess Lambert has a past that is haunting her. Their eight year-old daughter Isla died in a car accident that was caused when a deer darted out in front of her car. Jess is still suffering from her injuries as well as the death of her daughter.
We know Jess had a lot of trauma after Isla’s death with drinking and spiraling downhill. In this story we are days away from the trial of the woman accused of killing her daughter, Isla. Jess wants the woman responsible to be found guilty and to be put away. However, when she wakes up in a seedy hotel room with no memory of how she got there. On her phone is a viral video showing Jess calmly shooting that woman.
When the video spreads her department has choices. An expert is certain it is AI. However, her department is not so sure. Jess has no choice but to run as she needs time to prove her innocence.
She knows someone has engineered her downfall and is desperate to clear her name.
She follows the only lead she has—an unsolved case she abandoned after her daughter died that now holds the key to who set her up.
We have hints of that abandoned case in Chapter one – which had me a bit confused. as to what this story was really going on in this story. It featured the spirit of teacher Cecilia Cece Harte who died two years ago but cannot rest in peace. She is observing the ruling from the Massachusetts Supreme Court’s ruling that she died by suicide when she jumped Angel Falls shortly after she finally was able to escape her captivity.
Cecilia’s ghost knows truth is still buried.
Yes the hints were correct ~ what happened to Cece does come to play as to what is happening to Jess.
Wow! This was one of those stories that had me reading super-fast and then stop and say – Wait what did I just read? Then I would reread.
Story was emotional, also the paranormal aspects weren’t expecting however I am fine with paranormal stories and definitely added to this story!
At the end Ms. McDonald tells us that when she first wrote this story it had a different ending with a different decision. She kept the alternate ending exclusively for her book club. She does give us the info on joining the book club.
I want to thank NetGalley and Intrigue Ink Publishing for this intriguing early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for July 7, 2026.
Series: Jess Lambert #3
Author: Christina McDonald
Publisher: Intrigue Ink Publishing
Genre: Thriller
Pub Date: July 7, 2026
My Rating: 4.3 stars
Pages: 350
This is my fifth Christina McDonald novel. I totally loved the first three I read and became a fan! My fourth was a Jess Lambert and it was good but. . .. ..
My comment was ~ Story read like a Karin Slaughter story-In that Ms. Slaughter likes to put readers “out of their comfort zone”.
Although I was glued to the story, I admit I was definitely ‘out of my comfort zone’!
So had mixed feelings going into this story.
This story starts with Detective Jess Lambert and her lawyer husband Mac are trying to adjust to the death if their daughter and wanting justice. They are impatiently awaiting the trial of the woman who really caused the accident that killed her daughter
In the earlier book I wrote~
Detective Jess Lambert has a past that is haunting her. Their eight year-old daughter Isla died in a car accident that was caused when a deer darted out in front of her car. Jess is still suffering from her injuries as well as the death of her daughter.
We know Jess had a lot of trauma after Isla’s death with drinking and spiraling downhill. In this story we are days away from the trial of the woman accused of killing her daughter, Isla. Jess wants the woman responsible to be found guilty and to be put away. However, when she wakes up in a seedy hotel room with no memory of how she got there. On her phone is a viral video showing Jess calmly shooting that woman.
When the video spreads her department has choices. An expert is certain it is AI. However, her department is not so sure. Jess has no choice but to run as she needs time to prove her innocence.
She knows someone has engineered her downfall and is desperate to clear her name.
She follows the only lead she has—an unsolved case she abandoned after her daughter died that now holds the key to who set her up.
We have hints of that abandoned case in Chapter one – which had me a bit confused. as to what this story was really going on in this story. It featured the spirit of teacher Cecilia Cece Harte who died two years ago but cannot rest in peace. She is observing the ruling from the Massachusetts Supreme Court’s ruling that she died by suicide when she jumped Angel Falls shortly after she finally was able to escape her captivity.
Cecilia’s ghost knows truth is still buried.
Yes the hints were correct ~ what happened to Cece does come to play as to what is happening to Jess.
Wow! This was one of those stories that had me reading super-fast and then stop and say – Wait what did I just read? Then I would reread.
Story was emotional, also the paranormal aspects weren’t expecting however I am fine with paranormal stories and definitely added to this story!
At the end Ms. McDonald tells us that when she first wrote this story it had a different ending with a different decision. She kept the alternate ending exclusively for her book club. She does give us the info on joining the book club.
I want to thank NetGalley and Intrigue Ink Publishing for this intriguing early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for July 7, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Author
𝑰𝒕 𝒊𝒔𝒏'𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒄𝒂𝒏'𝒕 𝒔𝒆𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒕𝒉, 𝒊𝒕'𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒕𝒉 𝒊𝒕𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒇 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒔 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍, 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍𝒔 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍, 𝒔𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒔 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒃𝒆 𝒕𝒘𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒇𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒆𝒗𝒆…𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒇𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒆, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒕𝒉…𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒓𝒓𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒕.
Detective Jess Lambert is already living in the aftermath of the worst thing that could ever happen to a parent. She’s counting down the days to the trial of the woman accused of killing her daughter Isla when her world fractures all over again. She wakes up in a seedy hotel room with no memory of how she got there. Her phone holds the proof of something she cannot explain, a viral video of herself calmly committing murder. In a matter of hours, she loses her career, her credibility, and whatever fragile stability she had left. With her own department closing in, Jess runs. The only way forward is through a case she abandoned in her grief, a thread buried in the past that now feels like her only chance at survival. But the deeper she goes, the more it becomes clear that this is not just about what happened. It is about who gets to decide what is real.
I have been invested in this vulnerable character since book one, and this one hurt in a way I was not prepared for. The AI element at the core of this book is terrifying, not in a distant, speculative way, but in a way that feels immediate and already creeping into our lives. But what wrecked me was the grief Jess carries for Isla, grief that has not softened with time. This is a woman still carrying her daughter in every decision she makes, still trying to exist in a world that kept moving without her permission. There were moments I had to stop reading because Jess’s thoughts hit too close, demanding space I wasn’t ready to give. The loss, the guilt, the quiet, relentless question of how you keep going when part of you is gone…it’s all here, and it burns with a quiet ferocity.
One part of this story is the understanding that the most dangerous thing is not the lie itself, but how easily people accept it. Truth becomes negotiable, something that can be reshaped until it no longer resembles itself. Watching Jess fight not just to clear her name but to hold on to reality itself felt suffocating at times. The other part of this story understands that refusing to let go doesn’t actually keep us close to what we’ve lost; it just keeps us trapped in the moment we lost it. It reminds us that grief is also about what we do with what’s left, and how refusing to let go can prevent from ever stepping into what comes next. By the end, I wasn’t thinking about twists or reveals. I was thinking about how easily everything we trust could be taken from us, rewritten, or flat-out erased. Despite all that, Jess still gets to decide how her story ends. So many thanks to the author for letting me read this so early. Look for this one July 7, 2026.
Detective Jess Lambert is already living in the aftermath of the worst thing that could ever happen to a parent. She’s counting down the days to the trial of the woman accused of killing her daughter Isla when her world fractures all over again. She wakes up in a seedy hotel room with no memory of how she got there. Her phone holds the proof of something she cannot explain, a viral video of herself calmly committing murder. In a matter of hours, she loses her career, her credibility, and whatever fragile stability she had left. With her own department closing in, Jess runs. The only way forward is through a case she abandoned in her grief, a thread buried in the past that now feels like her only chance at survival. But the deeper she goes, the more it becomes clear that this is not just about what happened. It is about who gets to decide what is real.
I have been invested in this vulnerable character since book one, and this one hurt in a way I was not prepared for. The AI element at the core of this book is terrifying, not in a distant, speculative way, but in a way that feels immediate and already creeping into our lives. But what wrecked me was the grief Jess carries for Isla, grief that has not softened with time. This is a woman still carrying her daughter in every decision she makes, still trying to exist in a world that kept moving without her permission. There were moments I had to stop reading because Jess’s thoughts hit too close, demanding space I wasn’t ready to give. The loss, the guilt, the quiet, relentless question of how you keep going when part of you is gone…it’s all here, and it burns with a quiet ferocity.
One part of this story is the understanding that the most dangerous thing is not the lie itself, but how easily people accept it. Truth becomes negotiable, something that can be reshaped until it no longer resembles itself. Watching Jess fight not just to clear her name but to hold on to reality itself felt suffocating at times. The other part of this story understands that refusing to let go doesn’t actually keep us close to what we’ve lost; it just keeps us trapped in the moment we lost it. It reminds us that grief is also about what we do with what’s left, and how refusing to let go can prevent from ever stepping into what comes next. By the end, I wasn’t thinking about twists or reveals. I was thinking about how easily everything we trust could be taken from us, rewritten, or flat-out erased. Despite all that, Jess still gets to decide how her story ends. So many thanks to the author for letting me read this so early. Look for this one July 7, 2026.
Review of advance copy
Massive thanks to @thrillerbookloversthepulse and the author for inviting me to be a part of this book tour and for the gifted e-ARC...this is my honest review.
📱All The Lies We See📱
Author: Christina McDonald
Pub Date: July 7, 2026
MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
(All the stars actually)
When I found out there was a new book coming in the Jess Lambert series - from one of my favorite authors Christina McDonald - I literally cheered. When I found out Thriller Book Lovers The Pulse was getting an exclusive invite for the book tour, I cheered again. And when I received the copy of the e-ARC in my email, I cheered once more -- and then immediately downloaded it and began reading.
I love McDonald's writing, and as is typical with every one of her books, I was immediately pulled into the storyline from the very first sentence. This was a fast-paced, one-sitting read, with a consistently foreboding feeling of a race against time in both of the suspenseful storylines within these pages. I literally didn't want to stop reading! The story was told through the dual POVs of Jess and Cecilia in short, alternating chapters, and I loved the duality of their voices as these mysteries unfolded. Additionally, there is a relevance to one of these storylines that is SO timely and utterly terrifying (But no spoilers here)!
And oh, how I've missed the character of Jess Lambert! There is an authenticity that McDonald brings to Jess's character in each and every one of the books in this series. For me, reading this book was like getting together with an old friend I hadn't seen in a while and whom I missed dearly. See, Jess Lambert is a character with whom I've always felt a strong connection. Her grief about losing her daughter resonated so significantly with me, and the way McDonald writes about that grief has always pulled my heartstrings and made me feel so understood.
I'm sure it's abundantly clear with this review, but I am screaming from the rooftops for you to read this book when it comes out in July. And don't fret -- before that, you can dive into the series by reading the previous three books so you can better understand why it is that I can't stop raving about this series to anyone who will listen!
This book (and this series) is perfect for fans of badass female detectives, police procedurals, character-driven storylines, and suspenseful mysteries that will have you searching for breadcrumbs down every path. Can you read it as a standalone? Sure can. But honestly, do you want to miss the other 3 books in the series? Sure don't. Christina McDonald, welcome back -- and thanks for bringing another brilliant Jess Lambert book with you. This gets all my stars. Every one of them. ❤️
#AllTheLiesWeSee #ChristinaMcDonald #thrillerbookloversthepulse #gifted #thrillerlovers #thrillerreads #JessLambertSeries #bookreviews #bookrecs #bookrecommendations
📱All The Lies We See📱
Author: Christina McDonald
Pub Date: July 7, 2026
MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
(All the stars actually)
When I found out there was a new book coming in the Jess Lambert series - from one of my favorite authors Christina McDonald - I literally cheered. When I found out Thriller Book Lovers The Pulse was getting an exclusive invite for the book tour, I cheered again. And when I received the copy of the e-ARC in my email, I cheered once more -- and then immediately downloaded it and began reading.
I love McDonald's writing, and as is typical with every one of her books, I was immediately pulled into the storyline from the very first sentence. This was a fast-paced, one-sitting read, with a consistently foreboding feeling of a race against time in both of the suspenseful storylines within these pages. I literally didn't want to stop reading! The story was told through the dual POVs of Jess and Cecilia in short, alternating chapters, and I loved the duality of their voices as these mysteries unfolded. Additionally, there is a relevance to one of these storylines that is SO timely and utterly terrifying (But no spoilers here)!
And oh, how I've missed the character of Jess Lambert! There is an authenticity that McDonald brings to Jess's character in each and every one of the books in this series. For me, reading this book was like getting together with an old friend I hadn't seen in a while and whom I missed dearly. See, Jess Lambert is a character with whom I've always felt a strong connection. Her grief about losing her daughter resonated so significantly with me, and the way McDonald writes about that grief has always pulled my heartstrings and made me feel so understood.
I'm sure it's abundantly clear with this review, but I am screaming from the rooftops for you to read this book when it comes out in July. And don't fret -- before that, you can dive into the series by reading the previous three books so you can better understand why it is that I can't stop raving about this series to anyone who will listen!
This book (and this series) is perfect for fans of badass female detectives, police procedurals, character-driven storylines, and suspenseful mysteries that will have you searching for breadcrumbs down every path. Can you read it as a standalone? Sure can. But honestly, do you want to miss the other 3 books in the series? Sure don't. Christina McDonald, welcome back -- and thanks for bringing another brilliant Jess Lambert book with you. This gets all my stars. Every one of them. ❤️
#AllTheLiesWeSee #ChristinaMcDonald #thrillerbookloversthepulse #gifted #thrillerlovers #thrillerreads #JessLambertSeries #bookreviews #bookrecs #bookrecommendations
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: July 7, 2026
Detective Jess Lambert is finally ready to put the past behind her. The woman responsible for the death of Jess’ daughter, is facing trial, and Jess is hoping that her own testimony will deliver justice. But then Jess is drugged and wakes up in an unknown location, with absolutely no memory of what happened. Even though she makes it home safely and there is no sign of sexual assault, the dark places in Jess’ memory are haunting. Then, a video surfaces on TikTok, showing Jess killing Melanie, her daughter’s murderer, in cold blood. Even though Jess has no memory of the night, there is no way she would’ve killed Melanie. Right?
Christina McDonald’s “All The Lies We See” is the third novel in the Jess Lambert mystery series, featuring the damaged yet brilliant police detective, suffering with unimaginable grief and physical pain after the car accident that injured her and killed her only daughter, “Lies” is completely un-put-downable.
The Jess Lambert series is like other police procedurals in that it is not necessary to read all the novels in the series to be able to keep up with the plot. “Lies” has the same characters as the previous novels but the mystery itself is different. For me, personally, I’ve read all of the other novels except for book two and I did not feel like I missed out on anything. Jess’ ability to communicate with spirits makes her stand out in the genre, as she uses her connections to spirits to help her solve mysteries.
I adore McDonald and have been a long-time fan. Her tense writing and powerful characters make each of her novels page-turning and creative.
The mystery in “Lies” was shocking, and the action did not stop until the final pages. The plot was complex and multi-faceted, with many layers connecting various characters, but McDonald was able to bring the plot lines together seamlessly.
The ending itself was surprising, but very satisfying. McDonald states that an alternate ending is available and, although I’m curious, I don’t know if I want a different conclusion than the one printed and I worry I’ll be disappointed. Going with the one printed in “Lies”, I am eager to see what happens next for our fearless and flawed detective protagonist and her partner, Mac.
Expected publication date: July 7, 2026
Detective Jess Lambert is finally ready to put the past behind her. The woman responsible for the death of Jess’ daughter, is facing trial, and Jess is hoping that her own testimony will deliver justice. But then Jess is drugged and wakes up in an unknown location, with absolutely no memory of what happened. Even though she makes it home safely and there is no sign of sexual assault, the dark places in Jess’ memory are haunting. Then, a video surfaces on TikTok, showing Jess killing Melanie, her daughter’s murderer, in cold blood. Even though Jess has no memory of the night, there is no way she would’ve killed Melanie. Right?
Christina McDonald’s “All The Lies We See” is the third novel in the Jess Lambert mystery series, featuring the damaged yet brilliant police detective, suffering with unimaginable grief and physical pain after the car accident that injured her and killed her only daughter, “Lies” is completely un-put-downable.
The Jess Lambert series is like other police procedurals in that it is not necessary to read all the novels in the series to be able to keep up with the plot. “Lies” has the same characters as the previous novels but the mystery itself is different. For me, personally, I’ve read all of the other novels except for book two and I did not feel like I missed out on anything. Jess’ ability to communicate with spirits makes her stand out in the genre, as she uses her connections to spirits to help her solve mysteries.
I adore McDonald and have been a long-time fan. Her tense writing and powerful characters make each of her novels page-turning and creative.
The mystery in “Lies” was shocking, and the action did not stop until the final pages. The plot was complex and multi-faceted, with many layers connecting various characters, but McDonald was able to bring the plot lines together seamlessly.
The ending itself was surprising, but very satisfying. McDonald states that an alternate ending is available and, although I’m curious, I don’t know if I want a different conclusion than the one printed and I worry I’ll be disappointed. Going with the one printed in “Lies”, I am eager to see what happens next for our fearless and flawed detective protagonist and her partner, Mac.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
After reading the previous two books in the Jess Lambert series, I could not wait to read this book. Detective Jess Lambert is a character that I resonate with (as I can feel her leg pain through the pages), I feel compassion for her as she lost her daughter, and I love the fact that she can communicate with the afterlife.
This story starts off with Jess Lambert hearing news that the woman who is responsible for killing her daughter will be entering a plea deal, and will only serve a little time in jail. Next thing, Jess is waking up in a seedy motel room, and she has no recollection as to how she got there. She fears she must have been drugged the night before. But by who? And why?
As if things couldn’t get any worse, Jess is going viral on social media for murdering the woman who is accused of killing her daughter. Jess has no recollection of this crime, and she knows she is not capable of murder- no matter how bad she wants revenge. Jess has to get to the bottom of this mess! Who drugged her? And who is making these false and malicious videos?
Through this story we get alternating chapters between Jess and Cecilia. Cecilia (CeCe), is a dead woman who was previously kidnapped, released, and then murdered. However, everyone thinks that CeCe committed suicide. Can Jess Lambert bring this woman closure? And how do their two stories tie together?
I must say that I’m definitely not a fan of AI after reading this story. It’s scary how artificial intelligence in the hands of the wrong people can destroy somebody’s life. I will also say that I really enjoyed the beginning of this story, but then it slowly began to get repetitive. I also feel like there were some loose ends that were left open, and I had to suspend my disbelief a bit.
All in all, this was a good book. I would recommend the first two books in this series first (which I did enjoy a tad bit more), to get a better understanding of Jess Lambert and her daughter. However, you could still read this as a standalone, and not be lost.
(3.5 stars ⭐️)
Many thanks to NetGalley, Intrigue Ink Publishing, and the author for an early digital review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Publication date: July 7, 2026
Genre~ Mystery & Thrillers, General Fiction (adult)
This story starts off with Jess Lambert hearing news that the woman who is responsible for killing her daughter will be entering a plea deal, and will only serve a little time in jail. Next thing, Jess is waking up in a seedy motel room, and she has no recollection as to how she got there. She fears she must have been drugged the night before. But by who? And why?
As if things couldn’t get any worse, Jess is going viral on social media for murdering the woman who is accused of killing her daughter. Jess has no recollection of this crime, and she knows she is not capable of murder- no matter how bad she wants revenge. Jess has to get to the bottom of this mess! Who drugged her? And who is making these false and malicious videos?
Through this story we get alternating chapters between Jess and Cecilia. Cecilia (CeCe), is a dead woman who was previously kidnapped, released, and then murdered. However, everyone thinks that CeCe committed suicide. Can Jess Lambert bring this woman closure? And how do their two stories tie together?
I must say that I’m definitely not a fan of AI after reading this story. It’s scary how artificial intelligence in the hands of the wrong people can destroy somebody’s life. I will also say that I really enjoyed the beginning of this story, but then it slowly began to get repetitive. I also feel like there were some loose ends that were left open, and I had to suspend my disbelief a bit.
All in all, this was a good book. I would recommend the first two books in this series first (which I did enjoy a tad bit more), to get a better understanding of Jess Lambert and her daughter. However, you could still read this as a standalone, and not be lost.
(3.5 stars ⭐️)
Many thanks to NetGalley, Intrigue Ink Publishing, and the author for an early digital review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Publication date: July 7, 2026
Genre~ Mystery & Thrillers, General Fiction (adult)
July 7, 2026
I absolutely loved reading All The Lies We See by Christina McDonald. This is the third book in the Detective Jess Lambert series. A suspenseful, highly compelling, enthralling story with elements of the paranormal. This book had me on the edge of my seat from the beginning and kept me up late into the night turning pages until the conclusion. Christina McDonald is an excellent writer. She has long been one of my favorite go-to authors ever since I read her first novel. The Detective Jess Lambert series is one of the best mystery/thriller series I have read. The entire storyline and each of the characters feel genuine and relatable. A huge thank you to Intrigue Ink Publishing, author Christina McDonald, and NetGalley for the eARC of the book.
The story opens with Jess Lambert waking up confused in a shady hotel without any memory of how she got there or why she is there, but on her phone is a video that has gone viral showing her shooting a woman in cold blood, and both her husband and father have been kidnapped. The only thing Jess remembers is that she was just days away from the murder trial of the woman accused of killing her daughter. As the video gains traction and her own police department closes in, Jess has no choice but to flee. Someone wants to take her down, and they have orchestrated this entire situation. Urgently needing to figure out what is really going on and who is behind the attack on her, she only has one lead to follow from an unsolved case that she abandoned long ago. But the more she edges closer to the truth, things get more complicated. Can Jess clear her name, find the perpetrators behind the video, and save her family before it’s too late?
All The Lies We See is a well written, highly engaging thriller that examines the weight of grief, the weaponization of digital media, being able to trust one’s own intuition, relying on memory, and buried secrets. The gripping storyline had just the right amount of twists and turns that kept me captivated and totally invested in finding out what happened next. If you’re looking for a fantastic mystery series to read then Detective Jess Lambert series is definitely one to add to your reading list.
The story opens with Jess Lambert waking up confused in a shady hotel without any memory of how she got there or why she is there, but on her phone is a video that has gone viral showing her shooting a woman in cold blood, and both her husband and father have been kidnapped. The only thing Jess remembers is that she was just days away from the murder trial of the woman accused of killing her daughter. As the video gains traction and her own police department closes in, Jess has no choice but to flee. Someone wants to take her down, and they have orchestrated this entire situation. Urgently needing to figure out what is really going on and who is behind the attack on her, she only has one lead to follow from an unsolved case that she abandoned long ago. But the more she edges closer to the truth, things get more complicated. Can Jess clear her name, find the perpetrators behind the video, and save her family before it’s too late?
All The Lies We See is a well written, highly engaging thriller that examines the weight of grief, the weaponization of digital media, being able to trust one’s own intuition, relying on memory, and buried secrets. The gripping storyline had just the right amount of twists and turns that kept me captivated and totally invested in finding out what happened next. If you’re looking for a fantastic mystery series to read then Detective Jess Lambert series is definitely one to add to your reading list.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another favorite of ours at Thriller Book Lovers the Pulse is Christina McDonald, so I jumped at the chance to read her upcoming new thriller!
Detective Jess Lambert is days away from the trial of the woman accused of killing her daughter when she wakes in a seedy hotel room with no memory of how she got there. On her phone is a viral video showing Jess calmly shooting the woman in cold blood.
As the footage spreads and her own department closes in, Jess has no choice but to run. Someone has engineered her downfall, and the only way to survive is to uncover who’s turning her past into a weapon. Desperate to clear her name, she follows the only lead she has, an unsolved case she abandoned after her daughter died that now holds the key to who set her up.
But the closer Jess gets to the truth, the more she realizes it may not be enough. Because when people prefer the lie, even reality becomes irrelevant….
This is the third book in the Jess Lambert series. It helps to read the others first, but you can still enjoy it as a standalone. I love that Jess is a strong female character who has been through so much but doesn’t give up. This is a fast paced story as she races against time to figure out who is setting her up before they hurt anyone else, especially those she loves most. There are definitely clues throughout about who was behind the set up and it really made me trust no one! I thought the viral videos were a clever twist. It definitely makes you think about how technology can be manipulated today and how people really do believe what they see, whether it is true or not. I haven’t read many books that have a paranormal theme, but it added something different to the story and I really enjoyed it! I’m not sure if there will be another book in this series, but I will be looking out for or more books by Christina McDonald in the future!
Thank you to Christina McDonald for this advance reader copy!
Detective Jess Lambert is days away from the trial of the woman accused of killing her daughter when she wakes in a seedy hotel room with no memory of how she got there. On her phone is a viral video showing Jess calmly shooting the woman in cold blood.
As the footage spreads and her own department closes in, Jess has no choice but to run. Someone has engineered her downfall, and the only way to survive is to uncover who’s turning her past into a weapon. Desperate to clear her name, she follows the only lead she has, an unsolved case she abandoned after her daughter died that now holds the key to who set her up.
But the closer Jess gets to the truth, the more she realizes it may not be enough. Because when people prefer the lie, even reality becomes irrelevant….
This is the third book in the Jess Lambert series. It helps to read the others first, but you can still enjoy it as a standalone. I love that Jess is a strong female character who has been through so much but doesn’t give up. This is a fast paced story as she races against time to figure out who is setting her up before they hurt anyone else, especially those she loves most. There are definitely clues throughout about who was behind the set up and it really made me trust no one! I thought the viral videos were a clever twist. It definitely makes you think about how technology can be manipulated today and how people really do believe what they see, whether it is true or not. I haven’t read many books that have a paranormal theme, but it added something different to the story and I really enjoyed it! I’m not sure if there will be another book in this series, but I will be looking out for or more books by Christina McDonald in the future!
Thank you to Christina McDonald for this advance reader copy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Christina MacDonald and Intriue Ink Publishing for this exclusive early review copy! The Jess Lambert series is one of our very favorites at The Pulse!
“The truth doesn't matter because people don’t care about it. They believe what they want to believe, even if it’s a lie. And hen people prefer the lie, truth - and reality - are irrelevant. People judge based on what they see, not what they know. ..”
The third book in this series (technically fourth since there is a novella also), it definitely helps to read the prior books before jumping into this one. Detective Jess Lambert is days from the trial of the woman who killed her daughter when she wakes up in a hotel with no memory of how she got there. Even more chilling..there is a video of Jess murdering the woman in cold blood. As soon as the video gets out, Jess is forced to run - because no matter what the truth is, people believe what they want…
When I try to summarize this story, I keep coming back to the word bittersweet. Jess has gone through so much - is still going through so much - and is holding onto her daughter Isla. While there is a new mystery to solve, she also has to come to terms with letting go. The story was also tense throughout, as Jess tried to prove her innocence when there was video “proof” of her doing the unthinkable. The idea of an AI video showing something that entirely didn’t happen is terrifying, and I was invested at how things unravelled to show the actual truth. The ending was beautiful in its own way, and almost felt like wrapping things up - but I do hope there is more!
“All the Lies We See” releases July 7, 2026! This review will be shared to my instagram blog (@books_by_the_bottle) shortly :)
“The truth doesn't matter because people don’t care about it. They believe what they want to believe, even if it’s a lie. And hen people prefer the lie, truth - and reality - are irrelevant. People judge based on what they see, not what they know. ..”
The third book in this series (technically fourth since there is a novella also), it definitely helps to read the prior books before jumping into this one. Detective Jess Lambert is days from the trial of the woman who killed her daughter when she wakes up in a hotel with no memory of how she got there. Even more chilling..there is a video of Jess murdering the woman in cold blood. As soon as the video gets out, Jess is forced to run - because no matter what the truth is, people believe what they want…
When I try to summarize this story, I keep coming back to the word bittersweet. Jess has gone through so much - is still going through so much - and is holding onto her daughter Isla. While there is a new mystery to solve, she also has to come to terms with letting go. The story was also tense throughout, as Jess tried to prove her innocence when there was video “proof” of her doing the unthinkable. The idea of an AI video showing something that entirely didn’t happen is terrifying, and I was invested at how things unravelled to show the actual truth. The ending was beautiful in its own way, and almost felt like wrapping things up - but I do hope there is more!
“All the Lies We See” releases July 7, 2026! This review will be shared to my instagram blog (@books_by_the_bottle) shortly :)
Review of advance copy received from Author
Detective Jess Lambert is already spiraling in grief, still reeling from her daughter's death. But just as the woman who ruined her life is about to go on trial, Jess wakes up in a grimy hotel room with no memory of how she got there. And then comes a surprise: a viral video is circulating, showing herself calmly committing murder. Now the entire world thinks she's guilty. Her department is closing in. And the truth? It's buried somewhere in a past she tried to escape. To survive, Jess has to go back to an old abandoned case, the one she left behind when her world shattered. But the deeper she digs, the more it becomes clear this isn't just a setup... it's personal. And in a world where people believe what they see online, truth might not matter at all.
At this point, I'm officially ride or die for the Jess Lambert series! Every book just pulls me deeper into Jess's world and somehow the stakes keep getting higher! I loved all the previous books and this just cemented the series as one of my favorites! This was absolutely relentless. From the first chapter I was hooked, stressed and fully questioning reality right alongside Jess. What I love most about this series is how raw and human Jess feels. She's not a perfect detective, she's grieving, impulsive and constantly on edge, but that's what makes her story hit so hard. And the twists in this one? I got whiplash in the best way! If you've been following the series, you already know, this is a must read! And if you haven't started it yet, you have plenty of time to start from the beginning!
Thank you so much to both Thriller book lovers The Pulse and Christina McDonald for letting me read an early copy of this must read five star!
At this point, I'm officially ride or die for the Jess Lambert series! Every book just pulls me deeper into Jess's world and somehow the stakes keep getting higher! I loved all the previous books and this just cemented the series as one of my favorites! This was absolutely relentless. From the first chapter I was hooked, stressed and fully questioning reality right alongside Jess. What I love most about this series is how raw and human Jess feels. She's not a perfect detective, she's grieving, impulsive and constantly on edge, but that's what makes her story hit so hard. And the twists in this one? I got whiplash in the best way! If you've been following the series, you already know, this is a must read! And if you haven't started it yet, you have plenty of time to start from the beginning!
Thank you so much to both Thriller book lovers The Pulse and Christina McDonald for letting me read an early copy of this must read five star!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It all began with being drugged and an AI video. Detective Jess Lambert was targeted by the woman responsible for the death of her daughter. For the last three years Jess has been putting criminals away hoping to absolve herself of the guilt she has for losing her daughter.
…
Since finding out about Melanie’s case someone made an AI video of Jess killing someone. Now she’s hiding from the police trying to find Melanie in the hopes she can clear her name. With limited resources and little time Jess and her husband Mac work together to prove her innocence.
…
Jess was working a missing woman case before the accident. The case got turned over to another detective. Cecelia the missing woman needs Detective Jess Lambert’s help solving her case.
…
All The Lies We See is the third book in the Jess Lambert series. Jess is a detective who was injured in a car accident leaving her permanently handicapped. Her daughter visits Jess trying to communicate with her about another woman.
…
Christina McDonald brings a paranormal element into her thriller. When a woman was found dead the ME stated cause of death was suicide, but it wasn’t. Jess has this sixth sense seeing ghosts. Detective Jess Lambert is on the good side of the law solving cases and putting criminals behind bars. She never expected to become a suspect where she had to solve her own case to prevent from getting put behind bars for crimes she didn’t commit eventhough the evidence is damaging to her reputation as a cop. Everything we see is not real sometimes we need to look deeper to see what is hidden.
…
This thriller has a nice steady pace of activity. I enjoyed having Jess on the other side of the action. Afterall she’s still working as a detective.
…
Since finding out about Melanie’s case someone made an AI video of Jess killing someone. Now she’s hiding from the police trying to find Melanie in the hopes she can clear her name. With limited resources and little time Jess and her husband Mac work together to prove her innocence.
…
Jess was working a missing woman case before the accident. The case got turned over to another detective. Cecelia the missing woman needs Detective Jess Lambert’s help solving her case.
…
All The Lies We See is the third book in the Jess Lambert series. Jess is a detective who was injured in a car accident leaving her permanently handicapped. Her daughter visits Jess trying to communicate with her about another woman.
…
Christina McDonald brings a paranormal element into her thriller. When a woman was found dead the ME stated cause of death was suicide, but it wasn’t. Jess has this sixth sense seeing ghosts. Detective Jess Lambert is on the good side of the law solving cases and putting criminals behind bars. She never expected to become a suspect where she had to solve her own case to prevent from getting put behind bars for crimes she didn’t commit eventhough the evidence is damaging to her reputation as a cop. Everything we see is not real sometimes we need to look deeper to see what is hidden.
…
This thriller has a nice steady pace of activity. I enjoyed having Jess on the other side of the action. Afterall she’s still working as a detective.
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