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One of Them Is Lying
The BRAND NEW utterly gripping psychological thriller from the author of
No Son of Mine
Don't miss this addictive, twist-filled thriller, perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Gillian McAllister and Claire Douglas.
'Grabbed me from the first pages and wouldn't let me go - I loved it' Valerie Keogh
They all have secrets and no one can leave.
When Stella lands a job working at Titheridge Farm, she's thrilled. She's aware of what kind of man Alan Titheridge is – he's been embroiled in scandals for months - but it's now her job to try to clear his name.
Stella plans a weekend at the farm for the family and invites five VIP guests, in a bid to win them over. But as everyone arrives for their country break, a storm is brewing.
Forty-eight hours later, someone is dead.
Trapped by the weather and all with secrets of their own, one of the partygoers is lying and one isn't who they say they are. Now they must work out who they can trust, before it's too late…
'Grabbed me from the first pages and wouldn't let me go - I loved it' Valerie Keogh
They all have secrets and no one can leave.
When Stella lands a job working at Titheridge Farm, she's thrilled. She's aware of what kind of man Alan Titheridge is – he's been embroiled in scandals for months - but it's now her job to try to clear his name.
Stella plans a weekend at the farm for the family and invites five VIP guests, in a bid to win them over. But as everyone arrives for their country break, a storm is brewing.
Forty-eight hours later, someone is dead.
Trapped by the weather and all with secrets of their own, one of the partygoers is lying and one isn't who they say they are. Now they must work out who they can trust, before it's too late…
288 pages, Paperback
Published May 10, 2026
11 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
May 8, 2026
I was excited to dive into this one thanks to a complimentary copy from Boldwood Books via NetGalley, especially since I’ve enjoyed a previous book from this author and tend to gravitate toward thrillers from this publisher. Unfortunately, this one just didn’t land for me.
The story is broken into five sections, which I actually like from a structural standpoint, but the first half felt like very little was happening. It ended up being a real slog to push through. I’m absolutely on board for setup and a slow burn, but this didn’t feel like that so much as it did stalled pacing without enough momentum to keep me engaged.
By the time the action finally picked up, I was already pretty disengaged, which made it difficult to fully connect with what was unfolding. I did manage to enjoy a decent stretch later on, but overall it was hard to fully recover from that slow start. Unfortunately, the plot also felt predictable at times, a bit convoluted, and occasionally unclear in its direction.
So this ended up being a miss for me, but as always, reading is subjective.
The story is broken into five sections, which I actually like from a structural standpoint, but the first half felt like very little was happening. It ended up being a real slog to push through. I’m absolutely on board for setup and a slow burn, but this didn’t feel like that so much as it did stalled pacing without enough momentum to keep me engaged.
By the time the action finally picked up, I was already pretty disengaged, which made it difficult to fully connect with what was unfolding. I did manage to enjoy a decent stretch later on, but overall it was hard to fully recover from that slow start. Unfortunately, the plot also felt predictable at times, a bit convoluted, and occasionally unclear in its direction.
So this ended up being a miss for me, but as always, reading is subjective.
April 19, 2026
One Of Them Is Lying by CL Swatman, Stella has been hired by Alan Titheridge to boost his popularity. it’s been in the news that he’s allowed poaching on his land and that he cheated on his longtime wife Rhonda. Stella comes up with a great idea to have a big bang get together with five VIP guest and something that is also going to help a charity and gets the OK from Alan. The only thing is Alan doesn’t know Stella has a whole different ulterior motive for embellishing her CV and getting the job. It seems this isn’t the first she’s met the family and no matter how nice he seems she knows him differently. what Stella knows is by far the lesser of two evils because what she finds out is even more explosive. on the VIP weekend his daughters Renee and Romilly will also be there when the road gets cut off and a thunderstorm is happening it will be nothing compared to the hurricane inside the house and not everyone will live through it. I really really like this book the only thing that made me pause was when a five-year-old was talking about how she hated her daddy and I knew that it is natural for children to love their parents even if they’re abusive they want their parents Love so even though I knew this part was wrong it didn’t overshadowed the book so that I didn’t enjoy it I absolutely did it was well put together I like Stella I like the guy who worked in the the farm building or whatever it was I think his name was Tom I wish I was better at writing stuff like that down this was a great book they do have a trigger warning of incest so there’s that but if you could stomach that the rest is really a great read. #NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview,
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The first thing that needs to be said about this novel is that it is not a casual read. There are scenes of graphic sexual violence, some of them involving a child. I'm not sure if the publisher will be including a warning, and I wanted to make sure I did that before I write this review.
A young woman named Stella shows up at Titheridge Farm, a fake resume and list of references in hand. She is being interviewed to help Alan Titheridge with his rather messy public persona. He's quite wealthy and runs a retreat of sorts at the farm where guests come to enjoy the countryside. There is skeet shooting, axe throwing—even a spa on the premises—but he's been embroiled in so much bad press as of late that no one is spending money to come and stay on his property. He has a thing for the ladies, which would be fine if he wasn't married to a lovely woman named Rhonda, and has become a favorite target for photographers and journalists alike.
Once Stella is hired, she sets up a weekend of activities and invites several VIP guests in hopes of putting Alan's image in a more positive light. A huge storm blows in and cuts the electricity. Later, it's learned that a large tree has been felled cutting off access to and from the property. Thank goodness there's plenty of food and drink. Unfortunately, things get worse when someone is murdered. There are difficult relationships between most of the people trapped inside the Titheridge home. There are different journalists working for rival news agencies, estranged family members … and is Stella who she claims to be?
As dark as some of this narrative is—and some of it is truly dark—I have to say that I found this book to be incredibly engaging. It was not exactly what I expected, but that isn't a complaint. The plot was interesting and Swatman delivered a fantastic twist.
A young woman named Stella shows up at Titheridge Farm, a fake resume and list of references in hand. She is being interviewed to help Alan Titheridge with his rather messy public persona. He's quite wealthy and runs a retreat of sorts at the farm where guests come to enjoy the countryside. There is skeet shooting, axe throwing—even a spa on the premises—but he's been embroiled in so much bad press as of late that no one is spending money to come and stay on his property. He has a thing for the ladies, which would be fine if he wasn't married to a lovely woman named Rhonda, and has become a favorite target for photographers and journalists alike.
Once Stella is hired, she sets up a weekend of activities and invites several VIP guests in hopes of putting Alan's image in a more positive light. A huge storm blows in and cuts the electricity. Later, it's learned that a large tree has been felled cutting off access to and from the property. Thank goodness there's plenty of food and drink. Unfortunately, things get worse when someone is murdered. There are difficult relationships between most of the people trapped inside the Titheridge home. There are different journalists working for rival news agencies, estranged family members … and is Stella who she claims to be?
As dark as some of this narrative is—and some of it is truly dark—I have to say that I found this book to be incredibly engaging. It was not exactly what I expected, but that isn't a complaint. The plot was interesting and Swatman delivered a fantastic twist.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A Crucial Trigger Warning is Required:
Readers must be advised that this book contains extremely graphic and disturbing content. The subject matter includes explicit depictions and discussion of sexual violence, specifically rape and child molestation. Those who are sensitive to these topics or who have personal trauma related to them should exercise extreme caution before proceeding. This is not a casual read, and the publisher should ensure this warning is prominently displayed.
Initial Shock and Storyline Assessment:
Frankly, I was taken aback by the depth and darkness of the narrative. I went into this expecting a different kind of story entirely. However, once I adjusted to the challenging themes, I found the core storyline to be compelling and, in a dark way, deeply engaging. While the subject matter is undeniably difficult, the author crafted a plot that held my attention from the first page to the last. The pace was excellent; it was a quick, engrossing read that didn't linger unnecessarily on the horrific details but handled them with a necessary gravity.
Recommendation:
I can only recommend this title with a strong, unambiguous caveat. If you are certain you do not have any triggers related to the subjects of rape, child abuse, or other forms of sexual violence, the storyline itself is well-executed and warrants attention. It is a powerful, albeit disturbing, piece of work. For all other readers, please prioritize your mental health and well-being; this book may simply not be for you.
A Note of Gratitude:
My sincere thanks to #NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this Advanced Reader Copy (ARC).
Readers must be advised that this book contains extremely graphic and disturbing content. The subject matter includes explicit depictions and discussion of sexual violence, specifically rape and child molestation. Those who are sensitive to these topics or who have personal trauma related to them should exercise extreme caution before proceeding. This is not a casual read, and the publisher should ensure this warning is prominently displayed.
Initial Shock and Storyline Assessment:
Frankly, I was taken aback by the depth and darkness of the narrative. I went into this expecting a different kind of story entirely. However, once I adjusted to the challenging themes, I found the core storyline to be compelling and, in a dark way, deeply engaging. While the subject matter is undeniably difficult, the author crafted a plot that held my attention from the first page to the last. The pace was excellent; it was a quick, engrossing read that didn't linger unnecessarily on the horrific details but handled them with a necessary gravity.
Recommendation:
I can only recommend this title with a strong, unambiguous caveat. If you are certain you do not have any triggers related to the subjects of rape, child abuse, or other forms of sexual violence, the storyline itself is well-executed and warrants attention. It is a powerful, albeit disturbing, piece of work. For all other readers, please prioritize your mental health and well-being; this book may simply not be for you.
A Note of Gratitude:
My sincere thanks to #NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this Advanced Reader Copy (ARC).
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
One of Them Is Lying by C.L. Swatman is a compelling and emotionally layered thriller that blends mystery with deeply personal stakes.
From the outset, the story pulls you in with a strong sense of intrigue—there’s an immediate question of truth versus deception that keeps you hooked. Swatman builds tension effectively, creating an atmosphere where doubt lingers over every interaction and nothing feels entirely certain.
What sets this book apart is its emotional core. Beneath the mystery, there’s a powerful exploration of relationships, trust, and the consequences of secrets. The characters feel real and flawed, and their motivations unfold in a way that adds depth to the story. I found myself especially drawn to how the narrative balances suspense with introspection.
The pacing is steady, with a gradual build that allows both the plot and the emotional elements to develop. While it’s not a nonstop thriller, the tension simmers throughout, leading to a series of reveals that are both engaging and, at times, surprising.
There were a few moments where the story felt slightly predictable, but the strength of the writing and the emotional investment in the characters made up for it. Swatman’s style is accessible and immersive, making it easy to get lost in the story.
Overall, One of Them Is Lying is an engaging and thoughtful thriller that offers more than just twists—it delivers a meaningful look at trust, truth, and the impact of the choices we make. It’s a great pick for readers who enjoy character-driven suspense with emotional depth.
From the outset, the story pulls you in with a strong sense of intrigue—there’s an immediate question of truth versus deception that keeps you hooked. Swatman builds tension effectively, creating an atmosphere where doubt lingers over every interaction and nothing feels entirely certain.
What sets this book apart is its emotional core. Beneath the mystery, there’s a powerful exploration of relationships, trust, and the consequences of secrets. The characters feel real and flawed, and their motivations unfold in a way that adds depth to the story. I found myself especially drawn to how the narrative balances suspense with introspection.
The pacing is steady, with a gradual build that allows both the plot and the emotional elements to develop. While it’s not a nonstop thriller, the tension simmers throughout, leading to a series of reveals that are both engaging and, at times, surprising.
There were a few moments where the story felt slightly predictable, but the strength of the writing and the emotional investment in the characters made up for it. Swatman’s style is accessible and immersive, making it easy to get lost in the story.
Overall, One of Them Is Lying is an engaging and thoughtful thriller that offers more than just twists—it delivers a meaningful look at trust, truth, and the impact of the choices we make. It’s a great pick for readers who enjoy character-driven suspense with emotional depth.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
One of Them Is Lying is one of those thrillers that creeps up on you, tightening its hold page by page until you realise you’ve read half the book without looking up. From the moment Stella arrives at Titheridge Farm, there’s a quiet sense of unease, as though the house itself is bracing for what’s coming.
The setup is irresistible: a disgraced public figure hoping for redemption, a carefully selected group of guests with their own hidden motives, and a storm rolling in that cuts them off from the world just as tensions begin to rise. The author captures that deliciously claustrophobic feeling of being trapped with people you’re not sure you should trust, and it gives the whole story a low, steady hum of dread.
What really works here is the slow reveal of secrets. Nothing is handed over too quickly; instead, the truth seeps out in small, unsettling moments that shift your understanding of each character. Everyone is hiding something, and the book plays with that uncertainty beautifully. By the time the inevitable death occurs, it feels like the natural breaking point of all the pressure simmering beneath the surface.
Atmospheric, pacey, and full of those subtle twists that make you second‑guess every assumption, One of Them Is Lying is a perfect pick for readers who love a storm‑lashed setting, a cast full of secrets, and that irresistible “just one more chapter” pull.
With thanks to CL Swatman, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
The setup is irresistible: a disgraced public figure hoping for redemption, a carefully selected group of guests with their own hidden motives, and a storm rolling in that cuts them off from the world just as tensions begin to rise. The author captures that deliciously claustrophobic feeling of being trapped with people you’re not sure you should trust, and it gives the whole story a low, steady hum of dread.
What really works here is the slow reveal of secrets. Nothing is handed over too quickly; instead, the truth seeps out in small, unsettling moments that shift your understanding of each character. Everyone is hiding something, and the book plays with that uncertainty beautifully. By the time the inevitable death occurs, it feels like the natural breaking point of all the pressure simmering beneath the surface.
Atmospheric, pacey, and full of those subtle twists that make you second‑guess every assumption, One of Them Is Lying is a perfect pick for readers who love a storm‑lashed setting, a cast full of secrets, and that irresistible “just one more chapter” pull.
With thanks to CL Swatman, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
May 11, 2026
🩵🕯️One of Them is Lying ARC Review 🕯️🩵
Thank you so much to CL Swatman and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read and review this book!
One of Them is Lying is a standalone psychological thriller. Alan Titheridge has been surrounded by scandal for months, and it’s now Stella’s job to clear his name. But after planning a weekend getaway for some influential VIPs in hopes of getting some good PR, conflicts arise between the guests. Can they find the truth before it’s too late??
This was an interesting read. Stella was doing her best to improve the reputation of a man that didn’t necessarily deserve it. I enjoyed the world building and the isolation of the farm/retreat getaway. I did find that i struggled with liking a lot of these characters due to their difficult personalities, but I also feel like this was an intentional choice by the author. I feel like I was expecting a who-done-it murder mystery, but this book provided something else entirely. I didn’t dislike it, it was just unexpected
Overall this was a three star read for me. I enjoyed the story overall and the world building. This book absolutely has some potential triggers, so please check if you’re sensitive. As this was not a romance book, no rating will be given for spice
If you’re a fan of thrillers with engaging world building, decades-long mystery, and long awaited vengeance, then absolutely pick this up.
Thank you so much to CL Swatman and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read and review this book!
One of Them is Lying is a standalone psychological thriller. Alan Titheridge has been surrounded by scandal for months, and it’s now Stella’s job to clear his name. But after planning a weekend getaway for some influential VIPs in hopes of getting some good PR, conflicts arise between the guests. Can they find the truth before it’s too late??
This was an interesting read. Stella was doing her best to improve the reputation of a man that didn’t necessarily deserve it. I enjoyed the world building and the isolation of the farm/retreat getaway. I did find that i struggled with liking a lot of these characters due to their difficult personalities, but I also feel like this was an intentional choice by the author. I feel like I was expecting a who-done-it murder mystery, but this book provided something else entirely. I didn’t dislike it, it was just unexpected
Overall this was a three star read for me. I enjoyed the story overall and the world building. This book absolutely has some potential triggers, so please check if you’re sensitive. As this was not a romance book, no rating will be given for spice
If you’re a fan of thrillers with engaging world building, decades-long mystery, and long awaited vengeance, then absolutely pick this up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The synopsis made me think that this was a whodunit in the vein of Dame Agatha: a group of strangers, an isolated location and murder most foul. This is not it. There is crime and punishment, but the killing itself only happens almost at the end. Still, I was not disappointed because the writing is so compelling. Stella is doing her best to restore the reputation of a middle-aged man that has gotten away with way too much. She moves to his farm, which is now a resort that offers a curated rural experience to wealthy city folk, and invites influential people to make them forget a recent scandal. There, she spends time with Alan’s family and staff, trying to determine who has been sabotaging him. The novel is split into several parts, some told in third person and others as first-person narrative. As the blurb states, one of the characters is not who they say, hiding a big secret. At first, I thought that the author was cheating and contradicting herself but, after careful consideration, she is just using a clever trick to hide what was really going on. That, along with good writing that makes the farm and surrounding woods come to life, made for entertaining reading. I enjoyed it.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thank you, NetGalley/Boldwood Books.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thank you, NetGalley/Boldwood Books.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Well, I sure wasn’t expecting that! From the title, blurb, and definitely the cover, I expected “One of Them is Lying” to be a “twisty, unputdownable” mystery with a side of coziness to it. Maybe a sly, dark sense of humor. Nope. This book is dark, dark, dark, dark.
This book should come with a warning. I’m being serious. This novel deals with rape, sexual abuse, and incest. It seriously needs a trigger warning for the second half of the book. There is nothing that even hints at the heaviness in the blurb or marketing. As I was reading this, I kept feeling sorry for anyone that would be reading the book that had suffered through any of these unimaginable horrors and being ambushed by the subject while trying to enjoy this novel.
That being said, this is a really good book. It is well written. The characters are interesting. It’s just a good job by the author all the way around. It’s just heavy, though.
So, should you read this book? Definitely, as long as you are aware of the subject matters you are going to run into when you do.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.
This book should come with a warning. I’m being serious. This novel deals with rape, sexual abuse, and incest. It seriously needs a trigger warning for the second half of the book. There is nothing that even hints at the heaviness in the blurb or marketing. As I was reading this, I kept feeling sorry for anyone that would be reading the book that had suffered through any of these unimaginable horrors and being ambushed by the subject while trying to enjoy this novel.
That being said, this is a really good book. It is well written. The characters are interesting. It’s just a good job by the author all the way around. It’s just heavy, though.
So, should you read this book? Definitely, as long as you are aware of the subject matters you are going to run into when you do.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a really intriguing, slow-burn thriller that pulled me in quite quickly. From the start, you know everyone is hiding something, and the story slowly peels back each character’s secrets bit by bit, which kept me constantly guessing about who could be trusted.
There are quite a few unlikeable characters in this book, but in a way that works really well for the story - the kind where you’re suspicious of everyone and keep changing your mind about who you think is lying. I love books that make you play detective while you’re reading, and this definitely had that feel.
The setting also adds to the atmosphere, an isolated farm, bad weather, a group of people who don’t fully trust each other. it has that classic locked-room mystery vibe where tension slowly builds as the truth starts to come out.
The twist at the end was a really good one. The kind that makes you rethink certain characters and moments from earlier in the book, which I always think is the sign of a well-planned thriller. Overall, a really enjoyable, character-driven mystery with lots of secrets, tension and a satisfying twist at the end.
There are quite a few unlikeable characters in this book, but in a way that works really well for the story - the kind where you’re suspicious of everyone and keep changing your mind about who you think is lying. I love books that make you play detective while you’re reading, and this definitely had that feel.
The setting also adds to the atmosphere, an isolated farm, bad weather, a group of people who don’t fully trust each other. it has that classic locked-room mystery vibe where tension slowly builds as the truth starts to come out.
The twist at the end was a really good one. The kind that makes you rethink certain characters and moments from earlier in the book, which I always think is the sign of a well-planned thriller. Overall, a really enjoyable, character-driven mystery with lots of secrets, tension and a satisfying twist at the end.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book should come with a trigger warning, but it doesn’t. It deals with rape, sexual abuse, and incest, and goes to some very dark places, especially in the second half.
If you’re okay with that, this is a seriously gripping read.
The story drops you into a remote farm where a group of guests are invited for a tense weekend meant to fix a damaged reputation. A storm cuts everyone off, secrets start surfacing, and before long, someone ends up dead. From that point on, it becomes a full-on guessing game.
What stood out most to me was how untrustworthy everyone felt. No one is entirely likeable, and that actually works in the book’s favour because you’re constantly reassessing who might be lying. It really leans into that classic closed-circle mystery feel, but with a much darker edge.
The plot is tight, the pacing keeps building, and the twists land well. It’s also very much a revenge story, and it handles that in a clever way without making things predictable.
This isn’t an easy or comforting read, but it is a compelling one. Just make sure you know what you’re getting into before you start.
If you’re okay with that, this is a seriously gripping read.
The story drops you into a remote farm where a group of guests are invited for a tense weekend meant to fix a damaged reputation. A storm cuts everyone off, secrets start surfacing, and before long, someone ends up dead. From that point on, it becomes a full-on guessing game.
What stood out most to me was how untrustworthy everyone felt. No one is entirely likeable, and that actually works in the book’s favour because you’re constantly reassessing who might be lying. It really leans into that classic closed-circle mystery feel, but with a much darker edge.
The plot is tight, the pacing keeps building, and the twists land well. It’s also very much a revenge story, and it handles that in a clever way without making things predictable.
This isn’t an easy or comforting read, but it is a compelling one. Just make sure you know what you’re getting into before you start.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Claustrophobic Suspense At Its Best! Looking for a thriller that traps you in a web of secrets and never lets go? Titheridge Farm is the perfect, chilling setting for a story where no one, not even the protagonist is exactly who they seem.
When Stella is hired to salvage philanthropist Alan’s reputation at Titheridge Farm, she enters a hornets' nest of bizarre family dynamics and suspicious staff.
However, the true intrigue lies with Stella herself; small clues early on hint at a hidden agenda, and I loved how her own ulterior motives were peeled back layer by layer as the story progressed.
The slow-burn pacing is superb, allowing secrets and lies to unravel gradually toward a revelation so dark it takes your breath away. With relatable characters and a storm-lashed, multi-layered climax, this is a must-read for fans of claustrophobic, bone-chilling domestic suspense.
My thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC. This is my own opinion.
When Stella is hired to salvage philanthropist Alan’s reputation at Titheridge Farm, she enters a hornets' nest of bizarre family dynamics and suspicious staff.
However, the true intrigue lies with Stella herself; small clues early on hint at a hidden agenda, and I loved how her own ulterior motives were peeled back layer by layer as the story progressed.
The slow-burn pacing is superb, allowing secrets and lies to unravel gradually toward a revelation so dark it takes your breath away. With relatable characters and a storm-lashed, multi-layered climax, this is a must-read for fans of claustrophobic, bone-chilling domestic suspense.
My thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC. This is my own opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5*
What a wild ride! The remote farmhouse setting—cut off by a storm with no phone signal—creates the perfect backdrop for a classic whodunit! A colourful cast of characters gathers for the weekend, and the tension builds beautifully as secrets start to surface. The twists in the final stretch were great, and the ending lands was great and satisfying. The author’s writing style ties it all together effortlessly—it’s the icing on the cake!
A content note for readers: the story includes references to a rape scene, cancer diagnosis and death, and child sexual assault. These elements emerge around (and after) the halfway point, shifting the tone into much darker territory.
Overall, this is a gripping blend of thriller, suspense, and murder mystery—one that would translate brilliantly to the screen!
My thanks to #netgalley, the author and publishers #boldwoodbooks for the opportunity to read and review this fantastic book, my honest review is given voluntarily.
What a wild ride! The remote farmhouse setting—cut off by a storm with no phone signal—creates the perfect backdrop for a classic whodunit! A colourful cast of characters gathers for the weekend, and the tension builds beautifully as secrets start to surface. The twists in the final stretch were great, and the ending lands was great and satisfying. The author’s writing style ties it all together effortlessly—it’s the icing on the cake!
A content note for readers: the story includes references to a rape scene, cancer diagnosis and death, and child sexual assault. These elements emerge around (and after) the halfway point, shifting the tone into much darker territory.
Overall, this is a gripping blend of thriller, suspense, and murder mystery—one that would translate brilliantly to the screen!
My thanks to #netgalley, the author and publishers #boldwoodbooks for the opportunity to read and review this fantastic book, my honest review is given voluntarily.
April 10, 2026
Trigger warnings for incest, child abuse and rape.
This story is basically broken up into three segments. 1) Tells of Stella getting a job at Titheridge Farm where her job is to help improve the reputation of Alan Titheridge who has been plagued by bad press. There is a hint that her CV may have been embellished. (2) Abigail’s story of her childhood, her mother’s death and her quest for revenge. And, lastly (3) Renee’s tale.
Stella plans a weekend to highlight all that the farm has to offer as a corporate retreat and help repair Alan’s reputation with 5 VIP guests. Unfortunately, a storm forces the plans to change. There is no cell service and a tree blocks the road. Trapped!
This story is about family dynamics, hiding your true self, a predatory man who ruins lives and fighting back.
Thanks you NetGalley for the advance reader’s copy. This review is left voluntarily.
This story is basically broken up into three segments. 1) Tells of Stella getting a job at Titheridge Farm where her job is to help improve the reputation of Alan Titheridge who has been plagued by bad press. There is a hint that her CV may have been embellished. (2) Abigail’s story of her childhood, her mother’s death and her quest for revenge. And, lastly (3) Renee’s tale.
Stella plans a weekend to highlight all that the farm has to offer as a corporate retreat and help repair Alan’s reputation with 5 VIP guests. Unfortunately, a storm forces the plans to change. There is no cell service and a tree blocks the road. Trapped!
This story is about family dynamics, hiding your true self, a predatory man who ruins lives and fighting back.
Thanks you NetGalley for the advance reader’s copy. This review is left voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
C.L. Swatman’s latest, One of Them Is Lying, is a true slow-burn thriller that caught me completely off guard. Between the title, the enchanting cover, and the blurb, I was expecting a clever, twisty mystery,I was not expecting it to get this DARK!
The story explores complex family dynamics through a mix of third person and first-person perspectives. While the characters are interesting and the multi-part structure keeps you reading, the second half ventures into very heavy territory.
A note for sensitive readers: This book definitely needs a trigger warning. It deals graphically with rape, sexual abuse, and incest. It’s a compelling read if you can handle the intensity, but be prepared for a much grittier journey than the cover suggests.
Thank you, NetGalley, for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story explores complex family dynamics through a mix of third person and first-person perspectives. While the characters are interesting and the multi-part structure keeps you reading, the second half ventures into very heavy territory.
A note for sensitive readers: This book definitely needs a trigger warning. It deals graphically with rape, sexual abuse, and incest. It’s a compelling read if you can handle the intensity, but be prepared for a much grittier journey than the cover suggests.
Thank you, NetGalley, for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
This one had an intriguing premise and I was curious to see how everything would come together. The story spends a lot of time building out the main character and her past, but it started to feel repetitive rather than adding new layers.
The pacing was the biggest issue for me. It takes most of the book to get to the central mystery, and when it finally does, everything moves very quickly. The final reveal and resolution felt rushed compared to how much time was spent on the setup.
One of the most critical perspectives in the story needed more depth. Given how heavy that backstory is, it felt like it was introduced and resolved too quickly to have the impact it should have.
Overall, an interesting concept that didn’t fully land for me.
This one had an intriguing premise and I was curious to see how everything would come together. The story spends a lot of time building out the main character and her past, but it started to feel repetitive rather than adding new layers.
The pacing was the biggest issue for me. It takes most of the book to get to the central mystery, and when it finally does, everything moves very quickly. The final reveal and resolution felt rushed compared to how much time was spent on the setup.
One of the most critical perspectives in the story needed more depth. Given how heavy that backstory is, it felt like it was introduced and resolved too quickly to have the impact it should have.
Overall, an interesting concept that didn’t fully land for me.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Wellll....during what turned out to be the first portion of the book (it's broken into five parts), I was fairly bored. Fortunately, things flipped after that, secrets were revealed, backstories were delved into, and it all became more interesting.
Stella comes to Titheridge Farms in hopes of securing a PR position, claiming she can fix the public perception of Alan Titheridge (who lately has been receiving some bad press). Here, she meets Tom, a I guess handyman who lives on the property, and the rest of the Titheridge family. All is not what it seems with just about everyone involved, and those twists were enough to hold my interest, at least moderately.
There are mentions, and not casual mentions, of sexual assault that are pretty disturbing, so that's something to keep in mind here.
Thank you to NetGalley for my ARC.
Stella comes to Titheridge Farms in hopes of securing a PR position, claiming she can fix the public perception of Alan Titheridge (who lately has been receiving some bad press). Here, she meets Tom, a I guess handyman who lives on the property, and the rest of the Titheridge family. All is not what it seems with just about everyone involved, and those twists were enough to hold my interest, at least moderately.
There are mentions, and not casual mentions, of sexual assault that are pretty disturbing, so that's something to keep in mind here.
Thank you to NetGalley for my ARC.
May 5, 2026
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC!
2.5 ⭐️
This certainly had an interesting concept, and perhaps I was expecting a bit more of a ‘cluedo-style whodunnit’ murder mystery, but it took a bit of a different turn with a darker backstory than I was expecting.
It took until at least 50/55% of the way in for anything to really happen, the initial build up felt very slow once the main characters were introduced and then suddenly everything seems to move incredibly quickly once you reach the ‘twist’. The final reveal felt very rushed and not fleshed out enough in my opinion, and more could have been given to that over the drawn out first half.
A nice and quick thriller to binge if you’re looking for that, but I don’t think it fully delivered. It could also do with some trigger warnings for abuse/sexual assault/child abuse so be mindful of that before reading.
2.5 ⭐️
This certainly had an interesting concept, and perhaps I was expecting a bit more of a ‘cluedo-style whodunnit’ murder mystery, but it took a bit of a different turn with a darker backstory than I was expecting.
It took until at least 50/55% of the way in for anything to really happen, the initial build up felt very slow once the main characters were introduced and then suddenly everything seems to move incredibly quickly once you reach the ‘twist’. The final reveal felt very rushed and not fleshed out enough in my opinion, and more could have been given to that over the drawn out first half.
A nice and quick thriller to binge if you’re looking for that, but I don’t think it fully delivered. It could also do with some trigger warnings for abuse/sexual assault/child abuse so be mindful of that before reading.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
One of Them Is Lying follows Stella, a supposed publicist, as she tries to help a local businessman named Alan Titheridge recover from a series of scandals that hit the news, but something is suspicious about Stella as it seems like she's hiding a secret about her career, but what if she's lying about something else...
This was a fun twisty thriller, it definitely didn't go the way I expected and it kind of reminded me of The Silent Patient. I liked Stella as a character and the Titheridges are definitely all despicable in their own ways. I liked that the side characters also had their own drama.
Would recommend for anyone looking for a good thriller! Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this ARC!
This was a fun twisty thriller, it definitely didn't go the way I expected and it kind of reminded me of The Silent Patient. I liked Stella as a character and the Titheridges are definitely all despicable in their own ways. I liked that the side characters also had their own drama.
Would recommend for anyone looking for a good thriller! Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this ARC!
May 3, 2026
One of Them is Lying is the new thriller from C L Swatman. It’s billed as a gripping psychological thriller and certainly hit the mark. Stella accepts a job at Titheridge Farm. She’s thrilled yet also aware of what kind of man Alan Titheridge is. He’s in need of some positive PR for his business, so Stella plans a weekend for VIP guests in a bid to win them over. On the weekend in question, a massive storm hits and 48 hours later someone is dead. Trapped by the weather, and with plenty of secrets of their own, one of the party members is lying and one isn’t who they say they are, but who can they trust? I was hooked from the star and could not put this book down. Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and the author for the chance to review.
May 11, 2026
Y’all, CL Swatman had me side-eyeing EVERYONE. 🌩️🔪
A storm-trapped farmhouse, scandal, secrets, suspicious guests, and then… someone dies. The tension in this book was thicker than Mississippi humidity. 😅 Every conversation felt loaded, and nobody seemed trustworthy.
Stella was a strong lead trying to hold chaos together while everything quietly unraveled around her. Swatman’s writing is sharp, fast-paced, and packed with that delicious “something is VERY wrong here” energy.
Parts didn’t completely knock me out, but this was still a twisty, addictive thriller that kept me flipping pages faster than 👀.
Thanks to Boldwood Books for providing this review copy via #NetGalley for my honest, voluntary review. #OneOfThemIsLying #CLSwatman #NewRelease #BoldwoodBooks
A storm-trapped farmhouse, scandal, secrets, suspicious guests, and then… someone dies. The tension in this book was thicker than Mississippi humidity. 😅 Every conversation felt loaded, and nobody seemed trustworthy.
Stella was a strong lead trying to hold chaos together while everything quietly unraveled around her. Swatman’s writing is sharp, fast-paced, and packed with that delicious “something is VERY wrong here” energy.
Parts didn’t completely knock me out, but this was still a twisty, addictive thriller that kept me flipping pages faster than 👀.
Thanks to Boldwood Books for providing this review copy via #NetGalley for my honest, voluntary review. #OneOfThemIsLying #CLSwatman #NewRelease #BoldwoodBooks
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book wrecked me emotionally. I felt deept for the women in this story. (Except Romilly, who can absolutely go pound sand)
Definitely a slower pace than what I usually like, but once everything started rolling, wow. I easily guessed who was lying, but it was the why provided that had my mouth hanging.
This book hit home on more than one occasion for me and those are the stories that linger with me the longest.
My only critique, is I wish there was a little bit more of Tom. I felt like something good was going between him and the Mc, but it just needed to be developed a bit more.
Overall, I would recommend this book, BUT reader beware to shed a few tears.
Definitely a slower pace than what I usually like, but once everything started rolling, wow. I easily guessed who was lying, but it was the why provided that had my mouth hanging.
This book hit home on more than one occasion for me and those are the stories that linger with me the longest.
My only critique, is I wish there was a little bit more of Tom. I felt like something good was going between him and the Mc, but it just needed to be developed a bit more.
Overall, I would recommend this book, BUT reader beware to shed a few tears.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
NetGalley ARC review
Firstly, this book needs some trigger warnings as it involves sexual assault including a child.
It's a good thriller, but from the blurb I wasn't expecting the dark turn that it took.
If you enjoy your thrillers on the darker side, then I'm sure you'll enjoy this.
Stella has just started a job for Alan Titheridge, a local farm owner and businessman who is in need of a reputation revamp.
But things are not as they seem at Titheridge Farm and when Stella plans a PR weekend with local reporters and charity bosses to fix Alan's image, things start to get out of hand.
This dark thriller has a Cluedo/Agatha Christie vibe.
Firstly, this book needs some trigger warnings as it involves sexual assault including a child.
It's a good thriller, but from the blurb I wasn't expecting the dark turn that it took.
If you enjoy your thrillers on the darker side, then I'm sure you'll enjoy this.
Stella has just started a job for Alan Titheridge, a local farm owner and businessman who is in need of a reputation revamp.
But things are not as they seem at Titheridge Farm and when Stella plans a PR weekend with local reporters and charity bosses to fix Alan's image, things start to get out of hand.
This dark thriller has a Cluedo/Agatha Christie vibe.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Star Rating 3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️.💫
Firstly thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for providing me with a digital copy of this book for review purposes.
This is the second book I've read from this author and I can confidently say I'll continue to read more books from them !
The thing that stood out to me the most in this book was the atmosphere, it really felt like I was there and I can't praise that enough.
We follow Stella who takes a job working for Alan Titheridge at his farm. She's trying to paint him in a better light following scandals he's been involved with which have affected bookings at the farm. In order to do this Stella arranges a weekend of activities for some VIP guests and showcases Alan's charity work. Unfortunately someone ends up dead and there's a terrible storm meaning they can't call for help.
I rated After The Party by this author 4 stars so have rated this one 3.5 as the pacing and atmosphere being built was still great, however I found the story line more interesting in After The Party.
That's completely my preference though and if you're looking for a dark atmospheric murder mystery that you can binge in one sitting look no further !
Firstly thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for providing me with a digital copy of this book for review purposes.
This is the second book I've read from this author and I can confidently say I'll continue to read more books from them !
The thing that stood out to me the most in this book was the atmosphere, it really felt like I was there and I can't praise that enough.
We follow Stella who takes a job working for Alan Titheridge at his farm. She's trying to paint him in a better light following scandals he's been involved with which have affected bookings at the farm. In order to do this Stella arranges a weekend of activities for some VIP guests and showcases Alan's charity work. Unfortunately someone ends up dead and there's a terrible storm meaning they can't call for help.
I rated After The Party by this author 4 stars so have rated this one 3.5 as the pacing and atmosphere being built was still great, however I found the story line more interesting in After The Party.
That's completely my preference though and if you're looking for a dark atmospheric murder mystery that you can binge in one sitting look no further !
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Stella is successful in her application as event planner and admin assistant, really surprising as she has not been entirely truthful in her cv. The scene is set, she is required to redeem the reputation of her new employer after allegation of badger baiting and sexual impropriety. The event is set and the invited guests arrive along with the storm.
We soon learn all is not as it seems and discover who Stella is and why she is there. I enjoyed this book, although I thought the ending was a bit flat, unless it is leaving things open for a follow up book?
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the arc
We soon learn all is not as it seems and discover who Stella is and why she is there. I enjoyed this book, although I thought the ending was a bit flat, unless it is leaving things open for a follow up book?
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the arc
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was so lucky to have received this book as an ARC from Netgalley, and I was super excited to read it just based on the plot and feels of the traditional murder mystery element. I would highly recommend being aware of the trigger warnings before diving in, as it contains disturbing content.
Underneath the initial expectations there is good character development and their relationships are explored in detail, with a surprising twist on the development not being quite what I expected. It is dark and intriguing and kept me gripped throughout.
I enjoyed this story and would like to read more by the author.
My instagram channel is @readsleepgame
My tiktok channel is @pinksweetst
Underneath the initial expectations there is good character development and their relationships are explored in detail, with a surprising twist on the development not being quite what I expected. It is dark and intriguing and kept me gripped throughout.
I enjoyed this story and would like to read more by the author.
My instagram channel is @readsleepgame
My tiktok channel is @pinksweetst
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Trigger warnings needed. GBV, sexual abuse and molestation of children.
Having said that, I really enjoyed this book. It was totally not what I expected from the blurb.
It is a revenge novel - and very cleverly written. Great plot and twisty as well.
Strange how rich men can evade the law, and use their money to buy them respect.... until someone upsets the apple cart....... and this is done in this novel. By the most unexpected person!
Well written, and a quick read, dark and suspenseful. Although I found the ending quite abrupt!
4/5 stars from me.
Having said that, I really enjoyed this book. It was totally not what I expected from the blurb.
It is a revenge novel - and very cleverly written. Great plot and twisty as well.
Strange how rich men can evade the law, and use their money to buy them respect.... until someone upsets the apple cart....... and this is done in this novel. By the most unexpected person!
Well written, and a quick read, dark and suspenseful. Although I found the ending quite abrupt!
4/5 stars from me.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
After Stella’s mum dies, she decides to move out and find a job rather than stay in her mum’s memory-filled flat. She lands a live-in position at Titheridge Farm, aiming to help improve Alan’s reputation. Alan is loud and obnoxious, while his wife Rhonda is the complete opposite—kind and warm-hearted. Convinced everyone is against him, Alan’s world shifts when he begins to feel unwell. It’s an addictive read full of twists and turns—so good!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I love a book you can pick up and just fall straight into
I was gripped from the start already trying to
Guess what was happening before it did .
i liked Stella and Tom I felt a lot of emotions for different characters some I really really hated !!
Was shocked at some of the twists/reveals I feel like I should apologise to Leo. This left me guessing till the end I really enjoyed the whole who did and what’s actually going on! Was a good read
Truly enjoyed it
I was gripped from the start already trying to
Guess what was happening before it did .
i liked Stella and Tom I felt a lot of emotions for different characters some I really really hated !!
Was shocked at some of the twists/reveals I feel like I should apologise to Leo. This left me guessing till the end I really enjoyed the whole who did and what’s actually going on! Was a good read
Truly enjoyed it
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you, Boldwood Books, for providing the copy of One of Them Is Lying by C.L. Swatman. Nothing really happens until about halfway through, but then things really start to heat up. The premise was strong, but the story didn’t quite land. None of the characters had any depth at all; it was like skimming over the surface of their personalities. There were a few reveals, but none were earthshattering, so the book was good, but not great. 3 stars
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