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The Truth About Gracyn Lane
- An immersive, emotionally driven, sweeping Australian saga packed with secrets, revenge, slow-burn romance, longing, morally complicated choices and shocking twists. -
Gracyn Lane is about to play a very risky game.
Raised in foster care and poverty, Gracyn Lane discovers at twenty that her birth mother is Anna Shaw, a wealthy Englishwoman now living among Melbourne’s sporting elite. Determined to make Anna pay for the life she was denied, Gracyn uses her position as an apprentice jockey to slip into Anna’s glamorous world of horse racing, wealth and privilege.
But exacting revenge is harder than she imagined.
Anna is warm, charismatic, and impossible to hate. As Gracyn is drawn deeper into her life, she finds herself torn between resentment and unexpected belonging, and irresistibly drawn to Patrick Monroe, the magnetic former cricket star whose slow-burning attention threatens to unravel the plans closing in around her.
And while Gracyn hesitates, someone far more dangerous is already making his move.
Enzo Escarra has not forgotten Anna’s betrayal. This time, he intends to turn Gracyn’s secret into a weapon, using the truth she kept hidden to break the woman she never meant to care about.
Set against the intoxicating backdrop of Australia’s thoroughbred racing world, The Truth About Gracyn Lane is an irresistible, fast-paced novel about family secrets, revenge, forbidden desire, and the devastating cost of truth.
Gracyn Lane is about to play a very risky game.
Raised in foster care and poverty, Gracyn Lane discovers at twenty that her birth mother is Anna Shaw, a wealthy Englishwoman now living among Melbourne’s sporting elite. Determined to make Anna pay for the life she was denied, Gracyn uses her position as an apprentice jockey to slip into Anna’s glamorous world of horse racing, wealth and privilege.
But exacting revenge is harder than she imagined.
Anna is warm, charismatic, and impossible to hate. As Gracyn is drawn deeper into her life, she finds herself torn between resentment and unexpected belonging, and irresistibly drawn to Patrick Monroe, the magnetic former cricket star whose slow-burning attention threatens to unravel the plans closing in around her.
And while Gracyn hesitates, someone far more dangerous is already making his move.
Enzo Escarra has not forgotten Anna’s betrayal. This time, he intends to turn Gracyn’s secret into a weapon, using the truth she kept hidden to break the woman she never meant to care about.
Set against the intoxicating backdrop of Australia’s thoroughbred racing world, The Truth About Gracyn Lane is an irresistible, fast-paced novel about family secrets, revenge, forbidden desire, and the devastating cost of truth.
- GenresFiction
417 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 18, 2026
About the author
Annika Foxe
2 books29 followersThe daughter of a respected and highly successful thoroughbred trainer, Annika Foxe blends romance, suspense, family secrets, betrayal, revenge and found family into immersive, sweeping commercial fiction with an emotional heart. Her writing is character-driven, layered and dramatic, exploring complicated relationships, hidden truths and the choices that shape people’s lives.
Drawing on her lifelong connection to Melbourne’s racing industry, Annika brings an intimate knowledge of horses and racing to her debut series, The Falkland Saga, where Australia’s thoroughbred world provides a vivid backdrop to the characters, relationships and secrets at the heart of the story.
The Truth About Gracyn Lane is Annika’s debut novel and the first book in The Falkland Saga.
The sequel, The Reckoning of Anna Shaw, is being prepared for publication, followed by the third instalment, The Scandals of Brandon White.
Drawing on her lifelong connection to Melbourne’s racing industry, Annika brings an intimate knowledge of horses and racing to her debut series, The Falkland Saga, where Australia’s thoroughbred world provides a vivid backdrop to the characters, relationships and secrets at the heart of the story.
The Truth About Gracyn Lane is Annika’s debut novel and the first book in The Falkland Saga.
The sequel, The Reckoning of Anna Shaw, is being prepared for publication, followed by the third instalment, The Scandals of Brandon White.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
September 9, 2026
WOW, I loved this book so much.
If life didn’t get in the way I would’ve devoured this in one sitting.
I would highly recommend this and will happily reread it again.
I love Anika’s writing style. She didn’t over complicate things. Her story telling flowed like French Champagne over a champagne tower.
Her description of Flemington and the racing carnival is how I’ve experienced it, when I attended the Spring Racing Carnival and the Melbourne Cup.
The Characters:
The characters are complex and three dimensional. They are endearing and loveable, even as they’re flawed. They are everyday people who could be your friends.
The villain is diabolical with no redeeming qualities at all. You’ll hate him before you meet him and when you meet him, you’ll know the true meaning of loathing.
I found Gracyn to be annoying at times, but then I remembered how young she is and how I was at her age, so I could somewhat relate to her a little.
Anna is a great character. I felt her pain. She has a depth to her that will pull you to her. She’s been through so much and yet she’s not bitter or jaded. She’s soft and compassionate and strong. She’s my favourite character.
The Plot:
The plot is what I love most about this book. I was hooked from the first sentence, right up to the last word. It’s gripping, smart and intricate. I enjoyed the way Annika weaved the lives of her characters into the horse racing world. I was fascinated to see a glimpse of the racing world from the stables to the race and what happens afterwards.
This is a story about a girl who was abandoned at birth and grew up in the foster system. She didn’t have a good life and vowed to find her mother only to exact revenge for her abandonment. She got more than she bargained for, including found family.
The Location:
I’d be remiss not to mention the location because I live 20 minutes from Flemington Racecourse and I’ve been there a few times for the Spring Racing Carnival and the Melbourne Cup. I love reading books set in my hometown.
Thank you, Annika for the gift of Gracyn and Anna and Patrick and Maxine and Fredrikson and even Enzo.
If life didn’t get in the way I would’ve devoured this in one sitting.
I would highly recommend this and will happily reread it again.
I love Anika’s writing style. She didn’t over complicate things. Her story telling flowed like French Champagne over a champagne tower.
Her description of Flemington and the racing carnival is how I’ve experienced it, when I attended the Spring Racing Carnival and the Melbourne Cup.
The Characters:
The characters are complex and three dimensional. They are endearing and loveable, even as they’re flawed. They are everyday people who could be your friends.
The villain is diabolical with no redeeming qualities at all. You’ll hate him before you meet him and when you meet him, you’ll know the true meaning of loathing.
I found Gracyn to be annoying at times, but then I remembered how young she is and how I was at her age, so I could somewhat relate to her a little.
Anna is a great character. I felt her pain. She has a depth to her that will pull you to her. She’s been through so much and yet she’s not bitter or jaded. She’s soft and compassionate and strong. She’s my favourite character.
The Plot:
The plot is what I love most about this book. I was hooked from the first sentence, right up to the last word. It’s gripping, smart and intricate. I enjoyed the way Annika weaved the lives of her characters into the horse racing world. I was fascinated to see a glimpse of the racing world from the stables to the race and what happens afterwards.
This is a story about a girl who was abandoned at birth and grew up in the foster system. She didn’t have a good life and vowed to find her mother only to exact revenge for her abandonment. She got more than she bargained for, including found family.
The Location:
I’d be remiss not to mention the location because I live 20 minutes from Flemington Racecourse and I’ve been there a few times for the Spring Racing Carnival and the Melbourne Cup. I love reading books set in my hometown.
Thank you, Annika for the gift of Gracyn and Anna and Patrick and Maxine and Fredrikson and even Enzo.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Advanced reader copy review!
Oh if you want a book that is going to take you on an adventure with so many twists and turns that keep you wondering what is going to happen next this is the book for you!
This follows Gracyns story. Gracyn has not been fortunate in life, she’s been in and out of foster care and when she finds out who her birth mother is she has a score to settle!
Gracyn learns her birth mother Anna owns and races some of Australia’s most upcoming and exciting race horses, Gracyn is a jockey and makes it her mission to infiltrate Anna’s life, hell bent on getting her revenge. However, what she didn’t see coming was the conflicting emotions this would bring as she got to know Anna and her family.
Anna also has a past and a nasty ex husband who is also determined to see her suffer. And the side quests this takes you on has you turning the pages quickly waiting to see what happens next!
What I didn’t expect from this book is how many supporting characters there would be. This is something that could go so wrong but instead was done so perfectly that you find yourself invested in about 10 different characters and their stories and their outcomes. This shouldn’t work but it absolutely does and the way they all tie in perfectly with the two main characters is done in a way I’ve never seen done before that is absolutely outstanding. I couldn’t get enough!
Will Gracyn get her revenge? Will Anna learn the truth about who her daughter is? Will her ex husband settle the score?
This book takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions and keeps you hooked and guessing the whole way along. Can’t recommend more highly enough, you will absolutely devour this and the characters will stay with you long after you finish reading!
Oh if you want a book that is going to take you on an adventure with so many twists and turns that keep you wondering what is going to happen next this is the book for you!
This follows Gracyns story. Gracyn has not been fortunate in life, she’s been in and out of foster care and when she finds out who her birth mother is she has a score to settle!
Gracyn learns her birth mother Anna owns and races some of Australia’s most upcoming and exciting race horses, Gracyn is a jockey and makes it her mission to infiltrate Anna’s life, hell bent on getting her revenge. However, what she didn’t see coming was the conflicting emotions this would bring as she got to know Anna and her family.
Anna also has a past and a nasty ex husband who is also determined to see her suffer. And the side quests this takes you on has you turning the pages quickly waiting to see what happens next!
What I didn’t expect from this book is how many supporting characters there would be. This is something that could go so wrong but instead was done so perfectly that you find yourself invested in about 10 different characters and their stories and their outcomes. This shouldn’t work but it absolutely does and the way they all tie in perfectly with the two main characters is done in a way I’ve never seen done before that is absolutely outstanding. I couldn’t get enough!
Will Gracyn get her revenge? Will Anna learn the truth about who her daughter is? Will her ex husband settle the score?
This book takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions and keeps you hooked and guessing the whole way along. Can’t recommend more highly enough, you will absolutely devour this and the characters will stay with you long after you finish reading!
Review of advance copy
I am not the first person to surmise that The Truth About Gracyn Lane would make a highly entertaining TV soap, miniseries, or full-blown movie, and I’m sure I won’t be the last! This rollercoaster novel is juicy, scandalous, and addictive, yet it also portrays incredibly heartwarming relationships between so many of the characters.
I adored the setting of the thoroughbred racing industry. It contains all the ingredients that make for an enthralling read: competition, cheating, ambition, beautiful animals, fascinating careers, camaraderie, champagne-guzzling, glamour, globe-trotting, fame (or rubbing shoulders with famous folk) and hard work. (I used to enjoy going to the races as a spectator, even if it was more about dressing up and drinking for me.)
I empathised with titular character Gracyn, as her hardships and feelings of being thoroughly unwanted throughout life have made her hard, bitter, yet eager to be loved. Her need to feel wanted often leads her to bad choices, but this is what makes her such a wonderful character – she’s flawed, complex and still finding her way. Pretty realistic for someone so young who’s been put through the ringer as she has.
I was a bit lost with such a large cast of characters to try to keep track (ha! Pun intended) of at first, but it all came together nicely, like a satisfying, jaw-dropping jigsaw puzzle.
Thanks for a great read, Annika. Can’t wait for book two! Really can’t wait to see the miniseries…
I adored the setting of the thoroughbred racing industry. It contains all the ingredients that make for an enthralling read: competition, cheating, ambition, beautiful animals, fascinating careers, camaraderie, champagne-guzzling, glamour, globe-trotting, fame (or rubbing shoulders with famous folk) and hard work. (I used to enjoy going to the races as a spectator, even if it was more about dressing up and drinking for me.)
I empathised with titular character Gracyn, as her hardships and feelings of being thoroughly unwanted throughout life have made her hard, bitter, yet eager to be loved. Her need to feel wanted often leads her to bad choices, but this is what makes her such a wonderful character – she’s flawed, complex and still finding her way. Pretty realistic for someone so young who’s been put through the ringer as she has.
I was a bit lost with such a large cast of characters to try to keep track (ha! Pun intended) of at first, but it all came together nicely, like a satisfying, jaw-dropping jigsaw puzzle.
Thanks for a great read, Annika. Can’t wait for book two! Really can’t wait to see the miniseries…
August 20, 2026
I absolutely loved “The Truth About Gracyn Lane”, I didn’t want to stop reading and I went through this book like water through a sieve.
I don’t like comparing authors but if you have read Jilly Cooper and loved them then you should love this book.
Annika Foxe as done such a brilliant job with these characters and this story. The setting of the Australian Racing industry, Jockey’s, Owners and such was just so enjoyable and well written.
I loved so many things about this book, the characters were all well thought out, we learn enough about them all as we move through the book that I felt I was getting enough information and wanted more. Their past lives, current lives, living & working arrangements were so well planned and written.
The story of Gracyn, her past and how it has shaped her decisions was intriguing and interesting. She is still so young in so many ways and so easily influenced by people around her that her decisions make sense all the while you are going “no Gracyn don’t do that”.
The evil mastermind in the book made me hate him and then the twists towards the end as the story is resolving and coming to it’s end were very unexpected.
I can’t speak highly enough of this book, I will definitely be reading Annika's next books when they release.
I don’t like comparing authors but if you have read Jilly Cooper and loved them then you should love this book.
Annika Foxe as done such a brilliant job with these characters and this story. The setting of the Australian Racing industry, Jockey’s, Owners and such was just so enjoyable and well written.
I loved so many things about this book, the characters were all well thought out, we learn enough about them all as we move through the book that I felt I was getting enough information and wanted more. Their past lives, current lives, living & working arrangements were so well planned and written.
The story of Gracyn, her past and how it has shaped her decisions was intriguing and interesting. She is still so young in so many ways and so easily influenced by people around her that her decisions make sense all the while you are going “no Gracyn don’t do that”.
The evil mastermind in the book made me hate him and then the twists towards the end as the story is resolving and coming to it’s end were very unexpected.
I can’t speak highly enough of this book, I will definitely be reading Annika's next books when they release.
August 2, 2026
*ARC received in exchange for honest review*
It’s very rare for me to have a tearful reaction to books but this was so beautifully written I was hooked.
Whilst I want to go into great detail on my favourite parts, I don’t want to ruin it for you!
I felt the pain and heartache of characters, the joy and multiple points I cried, teared up or genuinely laughed out loud.
This book had me hooked from beginning to end, even stayed up until past 2am as I didn’t want to put it down.
The twists were brilliant, and though I predicted a few I did not predict them all (I’m usually very good at twist predictions!)
I love the family and found family intertwining, the romance was there and the spicier scenes were closed door but were initiated so well you didn’t need the spice levels that other books seem to heavily rely on. And whilst I read a wide range of genres and spice levels, with my usuals being on the darker and spicer end of the scale, this book blew my expectations and I didn’t find myself missing the outright explicit scenes.
I cannot wait for further instalments in this Saga, the way it ended has me pining for the next book!
It’s very rare for me to have a tearful reaction to books but this was so beautifully written I was hooked.
Whilst I want to go into great detail on my favourite parts, I don’t want to ruin it for you!
I felt the pain and heartache of characters, the joy and multiple points I cried, teared up or genuinely laughed out loud.
This book had me hooked from beginning to end, even stayed up until past 2am as I didn’t want to put it down.
The twists were brilliant, and though I predicted a few I did not predict them all (I’m usually very good at twist predictions!)
I love the family and found family intertwining, the romance was there and the spicier scenes were closed door but were initiated so well you didn’t need the spice levels that other books seem to heavily rely on. And whilst I read a wide range of genres and spice levels, with my usuals being on the darker and spicer end of the scale, this book blew my expectations and I didn’t find myself missing the outright explicit scenes.
I cannot wait for further instalments in this Saga, the way it ended has me pining for the next book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Aspiring jockey Gracyn Lane has moved from one foster home to the next, and by 20 she's had enough. When she discovers that her birth mother may actually be the respected Anna Shaw, a stable owner a few towns over, she sees an opportunity to reap revenge on the mother who abandoned her, while also giving her a new job and place to live. What she doesn't expect is for Anna and her friends to be so kind and welcoming to a stranger -- and filled with secrets of their own.
This was a great read and a stunning debut! I love Foxe's skill with showing rather than telling -- though I did occasionally feel like there was a secret I wasn't being let in on; a presumption of knowledge I didn't have. The relationships were complicated and dynamic, with unforgettable characters and a stunning Australian backdrop. The "shop talk" was immersive and didn't feel overdone. I did feel like Gracyn was a bit too easily swayed by a stranger, but the emotional depth made up for it.
Huge thank you to the author for the advanced read -- I can't wait for the next one!
The Truth About Gracyn Lane: ★★★★1/2
https://bookchicklit.blogspot.com/202...
This was a great read and a stunning debut! I love Foxe's skill with showing rather than telling -- though I did occasionally feel like there was a secret I wasn't being let in on; a presumption of knowledge I didn't have. The relationships were complicated and dynamic, with unforgettable characters and a stunning Australian backdrop. The "shop talk" was immersive and didn't feel overdone. I did feel like Gracyn was a bit too easily swayed by a stranger, but the emotional depth made up for it.
Huge thank you to the author for the advanced read -- I can't wait for the next one!
The Truth About Gracyn Lane: ★★★★1/2
https://bookchicklit.blogspot.com/202...
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was sent a link to this ARC from the author to read and review before publication.
4.5🌟
Wow, what an amazing read! The Truth About Gracyn Lane follows Gracyn, a 20 year apprentice jockey, who finds her biological mother after 20 years. She is a well known horse owner on Australia's racing circuit and all she wants is for her mother, Anna Shaw, to pay for the life she has had up to now.
But getting that revenge is harder than she ever imagined!
At the start of this book I was worried that all the different characters would mean I wouldn't be able to connect with them all. The first 35%-40% I really struggled to see where the plot was going to go but boy did it kick off!
I absolutely loved EVERY character in this book (except maybe Enzo, he was a **BLEEP**)
The last 40% of this book... WOW! Such a beautiful, moving plot. It had romance, drama, suspense.. I actually really enjoyed the racing subplot aswell. I can't wait for the 2nd book already and this one isn't even released yet.
The Truth About Gracyn Lane released 4th September 2026. Can't wait to grab a copy for my shelf!
4.5🌟
Wow, what an amazing read! The Truth About Gracyn Lane follows Gracyn, a 20 year apprentice jockey, who finds her biological mother after 20 years. She is a well known horse owner on Australia's racing circuit and all she wants is for her mother, Anna Shaw, to pay for the life she has had up to now.
But getting that revenge is harder than she ever imagined!
At the start of this book I was worried that all the different characters would mean I wouldn't be able to connect with them all. The first 35%-40% I really struggled to see where the plot was going to go but boy did it kick off!
I absolutely loved EVERY character in this book (except maybe Enzo, he was a **BLEEP**)
The last 40% of this book... WOW! Such a beautiful, moving plot. It had romance, drama, suspense.. I actually really enjoyed the racing subplot aswell. I can't wait for the 2nd book already and this one isn't even released yet.
The Truth About Gracyn Lane released 4th September 2026. Can't wait to grab a copy for my shelf!
July 31, 2026
I received this book as an ARC with intent to write an honest review.
I kindly received this as an ARC, and look forward to seeing this talented Australian authors future work.
This story follows a young woman who has not had an easy life growing up in care. She is a jockey and when discovering her that birth mother is a distinguished member of the racing community she is determined to intercept her life. This is not as simple as it seems when she develops emotional connections and understanding of the other side of the story.
I enjoyed this book, it would be well suited to those who love unexpected twists and turns with a good bit of drama! I found it hard to keep up with all of the POVs at times as there is a lot of secondary characters though they do all tie the story together nicely.
Also worth noting as an equestrian I found this a satisfying read, though it would also be suitable for those who do not know much about horses.
I kindly received this as an ARC, and look forward to seeing this talented Australian authors future work.
This story follows a young woman who has not had an easy life growing up in care. She is a jockey and when discovering her that birth mother is a distinguished member of the racing community she is determined to intercept her life. This is not as simple as it seems when she develops emotional connections and understanding of the other side of the story.
I enjoyed this book, it would be well suited to those who love unexpected twists and turns with a good bit of drama! I found it hard to keep up with all of the POVs at times as there is a lot of secondary characters though they do all tie the story together nicely.
Also worth noting as an equestrian I found this a satisfying read, though it would also be suitable for those who do not know much about horses.
Review of advance copy
The Truth About Gracyn Lane is an absolute must read!
With a storyline that takes you by the hand and gently guides you into the world of a girl lost, torn between love and revenge.
It leads you from the stables so clearly described that you can smell horses, hay and leather, to the adrenaline filled racetracks where you can hear the cheers and disappointed punters. Riding a rollercoaster of emotions that slows, then sends you reeling again.
Settle in to your favourite chair, grab a cuppa, a snack and a warm blanket, because just when you think you can read the rest 'tomorrow', each and every chapter grabs you by the throat and drags you (willingly) to the next one.
5 stars!
With a storyline that takes you by the hand and gently guides you into the world of a girl lost, torn between love and revenge.
It leads you from the stables so clearly described that you can smell horses, hay and leather, to the adrenaline filled racetracks where you can hear the cheers and disappointed punters. Riding a rollercoaster of emotions that slows, then sends you reeling again.
Settle in to your favourite chair, grab a cuppa, a snack and a warm blanket, because just when you think you can read the rest 'tomorrow', each and every chapter grabs you by the throat and drags you (willingly) to the next one.
5 stars!
August 17, 2026
For a debut novel, The Truth About Gracyn Lane absolutely delivers. Set against the glamorous (and cutthroat) world of Australian horse racing, this story hooks you fast and doesn’t let go.
It’s a captivating mix of family secrets, revenge, and slow-burn tension, with plenty of twists that keep you guessing—and yes, a few genuine “WTF just happened?” moments along the way.
The characters are a standout: some you’ll fiercely root for, others you’ll love to hate. That push-pull dynamic adds real depth and keeps the emotional stakes high throughout.
Paced well and packed with intrigue, it’s the kind of book you tell yourself you’ll read “just one more chapter”… and suddenly it’s 2am.
An impressive debut with serious promise. I’ll definitely be watching for the next instalment.
It’s a captivating mix of family secrets, revenge, and slow-burn tension, with plenty of twists that keep you guessing—and yes, a few genuine “WTF just happened?” moments along the way.
The characters are a standout: some you’ll fiercely root for, others you’ll love to hate. That push-pull dynamic adds real depth and keeps the emotional stakes high throughout.
Paced well and packed with intrigue, it’s the kind of book you tell yourself you’ll read “just one more chapter”… and suddenly it’s 2am.
An impressive debut with serious promise. I’ll definitely be watching for the next instalment.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Brilliant debut from a fellow author—hooked from page one!
As a fellow writer, I am always looking at how a story is crafted, and Annika Foxe absolutely nailed it with The Truth About Gracyn Lane. The tension is masterfully executed. She perfectly balances a dark, high-stakes revenge plot with a deeply compelling romance.
The Australian racing backdrop is incredibly vivid and serves as the perfect pressure cooker for the drama. It is fast-paced, unpredictable, and kept me guessing without ever giving too much away. A brilliant, atmospheric read that I highly recommend. Five well-deserved stars!
As a fellow writer, I am always looking at how a story is crafted, and Annika Foxe absolutely nailed it with The Truth About Gracyn Lane. The tension is masterfully executed. She perfectly balances a dark, high-stakes revenge plot with a deeply compelling romance.
The Australian racing backdrop is incredibly vivid and serves as the perfect pressure cooker for the drama. It is fast-paced, unpredictable, and kept me guessing without ever giving too much away. A brilliant, atmospheric read that I highly recommend. Five well-deserved stars!
Review of advance copy received from Author
OKAY SO this was such a juicy read 👀🏇
I loved the horse racing world, all the scandals, and the constant feeling that everyone was hiding something. Graclyn had such a strong presence on the page and every scene felt a little heavier when she was involved. There was something happening around every corner with a multiple character filled read 👀🥳
The drama definitely kept me turning pages, and I was fully invested in the messy secrets and tangled relationships. If you enjoy books with big personalities, racing, gossip, and plenty of “wait… WHAT?” moments, this one is worth picking up 🐎
Cannot wait to read Book 2 after THAT ending!
I loved the horse racing world, all the scandals, and the constant feeling that everyone was hiding something. Graclyn had such a strong presence on the page and every scene felt a little heavier when she was involved. There was something happening around every corner with a multiple character filled read 👀🥳
The drama definitely kept me turning pages, and I was fully invested in the messy secrets and tangled relationships. If you enjoy books with big personalities, racing, gossip, and plenty of “wait… WHAT?” moments, this one is worth picking up 🐎
Cannot wait to read Book 2 after THAT ending!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow!
I am an AVID reader and when I have a good book that has pulled me in I can't put it down til I have read it cover to cover and this book despite not being my general go-to genre riveted me from beginning to end! The story line is fantastic and very well written. The characters are all written in nicely and fit perfectly like puzzle pieces. The suspense had all my nerves fired up I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see how it ended and wasn't disappointed. If I could give more than 5 stars I would. I highly recommend this book.
I am an AVID reader and when I have a good book that has pulled me in I can't put it down til I have read it cover to cover and this book despite not being my general go-to genre riveted me from beginning to end! The story line is fantastic and very well written. The characters are all written in nicely and fit perfectly like puzzle pieces. The suspense had all my nerves fired up I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see how it ended and wasn't disappointed. If I could give more than 5 stars I would. I highly recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Good World-Building: Excellent, realistic details about the horse racing industry and racecourses.
Plot Logic: Close friends fail to notice obvious lookalikes. The powerful villain is defeated too easily.
Character Logic: The "good" characters never use their money to help the poor. The "hero" uses women emotionally. Another character blames a victim for her choices.
Weak Themes: The story asks readers to forgive terrible betrayals too quickly. A cruel character is wrongly praised as a hero.
Rushed Pacing: The book starts strong but finishes too fast, leading to an unsatisfying ending.
Plot Logic: Close friends fail to notice obvious lookalikes. The powerful villain is defeated too easily.
Character Logic: The "good" characters never use their money to help the poor. The "hero" uses women emotionally. Another character blames a victim for her choices.
Weak Themes: The story asks readers to forgive terrible betrayals too quickly. A cruel character is wrongly praised as a hero.
Rushed Pacing: The book starts strong but finishes too fast, leading to an unsatisfying ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a surprising story with twists and plots galore! This story is set in the Australian Thoroughbred racing industry and follows the harrowing and inspiring tale of Gracyn and her journey to finding her family and place in the racing industry. There are endearing characters you can’t help but fall in love with and the journey they take to find one another is epic and full of heartache but also the joy of finding each other and making those strong connections is amazing. This story will have you hooked and you won’t be able to put it down!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book!!! I was HOOKED!
It's based in my home state of Victoria, it has horse racing (which I absolutely loved). It follows the journey of Gracyn who finds out who her biological mother is.
This story has truths, lies, deceit, revenge and a whole lot of drama 😱.
You will NEVER guess what happens next, it keeps you guessing the entire time.
The characters I fell in love with, except Brandon, I didn't like him 😂.
Trust me when I say you will enjoy this. WELL DONE Annika, such a fantastic debut novel. Bring on book 2.
It's based in my home state of Victoria, it has horse racing (which I absolutely loved). It follows the journey of Gracyn who finds out who her biological mother is.
This story has truths, lies, deceit, revenge and a whole lot of drama 😱.
You will NEVER guess what happens next, it keeps you guessing the entire time.
The characters I fell in love with, except Brandon, I didn't like him 😂.
Trust me when I say you will enjoy this. WELL DONE Annika, such a fantastic debut novel. Bring on book 2.
August 6, 2026
ARC review
I was very lucky to receive this arc, it was very enjoyable and nostalgic. It reminded me of all the Jilly cooper books I used to read from my mums bookcase growing up. I loved the horse racing, the drama and the found family. At first the multiple characters were a little confusing, I struggled to picture them all and their different ages. They all seemed attracted to one another at one point. However as the book went on we got to know them all more, and it was a great addition it worked really well. This is a fabulous first book
I was very lucky to receive this arc, it was very enjoyable and nostalgic. It reminded me of all the Jilly cooper books I used to read from my mums bookcase growing up. I loved the horse racing, the drama and the found family. At first the multiple characters were a little confusing, I struggled to picture them all and their different ages. They all seemed attracted to one another at one point. However as the book went on we got to know them all more, and it was a great addition it worked really well. This is a fabulous first book
September 4, 2026
Oh my word, do read this book! It’s well written and is part romance but mostly suspenseful yet cozy mystery. Enzo is a bad man with lots of money and power and corruption. He hasn’t forgiven Anna for walking away and humiliating him. Gracyn is Anna’s long lost daughter who just figured out who her mother is and is out for revenge… until she starts riding Anna’s horses and sees just how kind and loving Anna is. But the deception to get the job might cost Gracyn. Throw in some devilishly handsome men, other family members, and a lot of horse racing and you’ve got this great book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was honoured to receive the arc of this book and honestly I was hooked from the get go…. Literally chapter 1 and I couldn’t put it down!
The story line was fantastic and as much as I guessed what I thought would happen I was always shocked by how far off I was. This needs to be a movie or tv series because it would be awesome to see these characters come to life!
This book was absolutely amazing and I can’t wait for the next book to hit the shelves.
The story line was fantastic and as much as I guessed what I thought would happen I was always shocked by how far off I was. This needs to be a movie or tv series because it would be awesome to see these characters come to life!
This book was absolutely amazing and I can’t wait for the next book to hit the shelves.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was an incredible debut novel. From the very first page, the twists and turns kept me completely hooked, and every new revelation had me questioning everything I thought I knew. The character development was so well done that I never knew who to trust or what was coming next. Just when I thought I had it figured out, the story surprised me again. The ending was completely unexpected and left me desperate to pick up the next book!
Review of advance copy
NO REGRETS!
I didn't think this was a debut when I was reading it. The twists, the plot, the character development and every bump in the road along the way was just devilishly enthralling!
Smoothly written, easy to follow, gripping and genuinely just unputdownable. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves the thrill of a revelation or the shock of absolute DRAMA in their reads.
Waiting impatiently for the next stunner from this author, I'll definitely be following.
I didn't think this was a debut when I was reading it. The twists, the plot, the character development and every bump in the road along the way was just devilishly enthralling!
Smoothly written, easy to follow, gripping and genuinely just unputdownable. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves the thrill of a revelation or the shock of absolute DRAMA in their reads.
Waiting impatiently for the next stunner from this author, I'll definitely be following.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC - wow this book pulled me in right from the start. It was an easy to read and flowing writing style. I really enjoyed getting to know the secondary characters as just much as Gracyn and Anna. I became quite invested in Gracyn story and choices she was making on when to confront her past. I couldn’t put the book down until the end and a few scenes had me emotional. Great debut for this Australian author and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
August 4, 2026
I’m so glad this was my first ever Arc Read!
I was gripped from chapter 1 and all the way through, I felt like every bit was necessary to complete the whole story.
There are so many characters and a lot to keep up with but I loved the whole dynamic of the group.
I’d say this is thriller with a side of Romance, imo similar to Catherine Cowles 📚
I laughed, cried, screamed and got really angry, it was definitely an emotional journey.
I was gripped from chapter 1 and all the way through, I felt like every bit was necessary to complete the whole story.
There are so many characters and a lot to keep up with but I loved the whole dynamic of the group.
I’d say this is thriller with a side of Romance, imo similar to Catherine Cowles 📚
I laughed, cried, screamed and got really angry, it was definitely an emotional journey.
August 6, 2026
I absolutely loved this! Something totally different to my normal reads and it had me hooked from the get go. The characters were so easy to feel for and the development throughout the story was done so well. The plot was very easy to follow and not confusing or hard to immerse yourself in. There was not one point I felt it dragged and the ending got me good!
The twists and turns kept coming from the start and I wasn’t disappointed once. Could easily see this as a TV show!
The twists and turns kept coming from the start and I wasn’t disappointed once. Could easily see this as a TV show!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Annika Foxe kindly gave me a pre-release copy of her first book in the Faulkland trilogy, The Truth About Gracyn Lane.
The story captured some of my all time favorite story themes, (revenge, girl power and romantic intrigue). I loved how Annika drew the characters of strong women while still showing their human frailty.
Highly recommend ☺️
The story captured some of my all time favorite story themes, (revenge, girl power and romantic intrigue). I loved how Annika drew the characters of strong women while still showing their human frailty.
Highly recommend ☺️
Review of advance copy received from Author
For a debut novel i absolutely fell in love with this book!
It was fast paced, twists and turns and I am telling you so many amazing characters. I loved every single one!
I dont know much about the horse riding and have never bet on any races but that did not take away from the story.
Cannot wait for Annikas next book!
It was fast paced, twists and turns and I am telling you so many amazing characters. I loved every single one!
I dont know much about the horse riding and have never bet on any races but that did not take away from the story.
Cannot wait for Annikas next book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to be asked to sign up for an arc read and my gosh, I’m so happy I was!
The twists, the plot, the characters….i was hooked from the very start! So very well written.
This is the kind of book you can’t put down! Always cliff hangers wanting you more!
The ending was not expected, had my mind was BLOWN….
Needing book 2 ASAP after that ending!!
The twists, the plot, the characters….i was hooked from the very start! So very well written.
This is the kind of book you can’t put down! Always cliff hangers wanting you more!
The ending was not expected, had my mind was BLOWN….
Needing book 2 ASAP after that ending!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Annika you have outdone yourself with this book! The plot twists in this book are insane and keep the reader on their toes! This would absolutely make an amazing movie or tv show! I loved the track setting! I don’t want to give any spoilers, but the ending…. Ahh! 100% must read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved every second of this book. The characters were amazing and funny, but so complicated.
Your heart will be broken but you'll love it because you'll feel a deep connection to the characters.
The twists are most certainly twisty so buckle up.
Cannot wait for book 2.
Your heart will be broken but you'll love it because you'll feel a deep connection to the characters.
The twists are most certainly twisty so buckle up.
Cannot wait for book 2.
August 11, 2026
Thank you Annika for the ARC !! So sorry it took me long to read this!!
Was definitely a different read then what I usually do, there was so much toxicity and drama it was definitely lots of twist and turns!!!
Im interested to see what happens next and what else we get to see
3.75 ⭐️
Was definitely a different read then what I usually do, there was so much toxicity and drama it was definitely lots of twist and turns!!!
Im interested to see what happens next and what else we get to see
3.75 ⭐️
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