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Detective Karen Hart #12
Lie To Me
As soon as he picks up the phone, Arnie knows something is terribly wrong. ‘We’ve found him. Damon’s finally been found.’ For thirty-five years, DS Arnie Hodgson believed his childhood friend was dead. But he didn’t die back then. He was murdered yesterday.
DS Karen Hart’s heart breaks for her colleague as she joins the investigation, but soon the case takes a darker turn. Burned into Damon’s chest is a vivid scarlet mark—a Victorian branding iron shaped like a scythe. Why did Damon vanish that night? And why has someone killed him now?
As Karen and Arnie track down his old friends in the small coastal town of Humberston, they become sure answers lie buried in Arnie’s past; they were all together at the fairground that summer night thirty-five years ago when Damon disappeared. And when the detectives uncover another body, it’s clear someone will kill to keep their secrets buried.
Then another person close to Arnie is brutally murdered—with the same vivid scarlet mark seared into their skin. And when a driver tries to run Arnie down in a car, he must finally confront a terrifying is one of his old friends a killer? And if so, can he bring them to justice before they turn on him next?
DS Karen Hart’s heart breaks for her colleague as she joins the investigation, but soon the case takes a darker turn. Burned into Damon’s chest is a vivid scarlet mark—a Victorian branding iron shaped like a scythe. Why did Damon vanish that night? And why has someone killed him now?
As Karen and Arnie track down his old friends in the small coastal town of Humberston, they become sure answers lie buried in Arnie’s past; they were all together at the fairground that summer night thirty-five years ago when Damon disappeared. And when the detectives uncover another body, it’s clear someone will kill to keep their secrets buried.
Then another person close to Arnie is brutally murdered—with the same vivid scarlet mark seared into their skin. And when a driver tries to run Arnie down in a car, he must finally confront a terrifying is one of his old friends a killer? And if so, can he bring them to justice before they turn on him next?
422 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 8, 2026
About the author
D.S. Butler
35 books959 followersAuthor of the Karen Hart series. Ex-biochemist turned crime-writer. Huge Queen fan. Loves to read crime fiction.
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Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
𝗜 𝗙𝗶𝗴𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗜𝘁 𝗢𝘂𝘁... 𝗔 𝗕𝗶𝘁 𝗧𝗼𝗼 𝗦𝗼𝗼𝗻 👀
I found the pacing closer to medium than fast, but the little twists and unfolding developments along the way kept the story moving and consistently interesting. I had my suspicions about where things were heading and figured out what was going on sooner than I would have liked. Normally, I still enjoy watching everything unfold once I've figured things out, but I didn't enjoy that part quite as much this time, perhaps because there weren't as many new little reveals left to keep me guessing.
Still, everything came together satisfactorily, with no loose ends, and I enjoyed this classic British police procedural.
Thank you to D. S. Butler, Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. All opinions are my own.
🎉 𝗛𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗮𝘆, 𝗗. 𝗦. 𝗕𝘂𝘁𝗹𝗲𝗿! 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆'𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲! 𝗜 𝗵𝗼𝗽𝗲 𝗹𝗼𝘁𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗼𝗻𝗲.
I found the pacing closer to medium than fast, but the little twists and unfolding developments along the way kept the story moving and consistently interesting. I had my suspicions about where things were heading and figured out what was going on sooner than I would have liked. Normally, I still enjoy watching everything unfold once I've figured things out, but I didn't enjoy that part quite as much this time, perhaps because there weren't as many new little reveals left to keep me guessing.
Still, everything came together satisfactorily, with no loose ends, and I enjoyed this classic British police procedural.
Thank you to D. S. Butler, Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. All opinions are my own.
🎉 𝗛𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗮𝘆, 𝗗. 𝗦. 𝗕𝘂𝘁𝗹𝗲𝗿! 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆'𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲! 𝗜 𝗵𝗼𝗽𝗲 𝗹𝗼𝘁𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗼𝗻𝗲.
September 9, 2026
4.25 stars
The whole team works together on the newest case in the DS Karen Hart series. However, Karen and DS Arnie Hodgson take the center stage when the case hits close to home for Arnie. At Arnie's request, Karen is willing to lead the investigation. An old friend of the stoic Arnie is killed and it brings up feelings of guilt that as a teenager, he wasn't able to help two friends who were in need.
The case is difficult and all of the witnesses seem to be hiding something. Karen is also finalizing wedding plans but she frustrates her mother and sister, because even though the date is growing closer, the investigation comes first for Karen. There are multiple points-of-view, including the unidentified killer. I suspected everyone at one point, but eventually got it right in this engaging procedural/thriller which works well as a standalone.
Thank you, Amazon Publishing, Thomas and Mercer, and NetGalley for the advance copy of the ebook. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
The whole team works together on the newest case in the DS Karen Hart series. However, Karen and DS Arnie Hodgson take the center stage when the case hits close to home for Arnie. At Arnie's request, Karen is willing to lead the investigation. An old friend of the stoic Arnie is killed and it brings up feelings of guilt that as a teenager, he wasn't able to help two friends who were in need.
The case is difficult and all of the witnesses seem to be hiding something. Karen is also finalizing wedding plans but she frustrates her mother and sister, because even though the date is growing closer, the investigation comes first for Karen. There are multiple points-of-view, including the unidentified killer. I suspected everyone at one point, but eventually got it right in this engaging procedural/thriller which works well as a standalone.
Thank you, Amazon Publishing, Thomas and Mercer, and NetGalley for the advance copy of the ebook. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Normally, after 11 volumes, a series starts to get a little stale. This is not the case with Karen Hart’s 12th outing. The characters have grown and changed, and I love how the author incorporates everybody’s experiences in the stories. This time, grouchy Arnie gets to shine. Reluctantly. A friend who went missing when they were teenagers is found murdered. Decades later. Since he was assumed dead so many years ago, it is the team’s job to figure out where he was and what happened. The author explores Arnie’s background, explaining a lot about his personality. The plot is intriguing, propulsive and very well thought out. I figured out whodunit early enough, but I was still engrossed. At this point, I’m so invested in these characters, that I was suffering… a lot! This book can be read as a standalone but, if you’re new to the series, I’d recommend starting from the beginning. It’s worth it.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thank you, NetGalley/Amazon Publishing UK | Thomas & Mercer.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thank you, NetGalley/Amazon Publishing UK | Thomas & Mercer.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Lie To Me by D. S. Butler is a psychological thriller that follows DS Arnie Hodgson, whose life is turned upside down when he receives a phone call announcing the discovery of his long-lost childhood friend, Damon, who has been murdered. This revelation sets off a chain of events that are tense and page-turning. The characters are well-developed, particularly DS Karen Hart, who shows unwavering support for Arnie while becoming an integral part of the investigation. As the story unfolds, the intricacies of Arnie's connections with his old friends and the tragic events of that fateful night become increasingly compelling. The pacing is done well, with twists that kept me guessing.
Overall, Lie to Me is a very good read for any fan of crime fiction. The author delivers a powerful story filled with twists and emotion. I would recommend this book and this author.
#LieToMe #NetGalley @AmazonPub
Overall, Lie to Me is a very good read for any fan of crime fiction. The author delivers a powerful story filled with twists and emotion. I would recommend this book and this author.
#LieToMe #NetGalley @AmazonPub
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I could have sworn I'd read at least one previous book in this series. Not only did the main cast seem oddly familiar, but so did Arnie's girlfriend, along with her occupation. So imagine my surprise when I checked my reading history and realized... nope. This was actually my first book in the series.
That said, I never felt lost.
The author does a great job introducing Karen's team and making their long history together feel natural, so even as a newcomer I had no trouble keeping up with the relationships between the core characters. Although I am now desperately trying to remember what other series I must be confusing this one with.
While I enjoyed this novel overall, I did have a few issues with it, although, let's be honest, no book is ever perfect.
My biggest complaint was Arnie's involvement in the investigation itself. There is absolutely no way he should have been allowed anywhere near that case, let alone be one of the officers actively working it. He was directly connected not only to the victims, but also to the events of that night thirty-five years earlier. The only thing clearing him was his own claim that he'd been drunk and couldn't remember what happened. That's... not exactly airtight. Any halfway competent defense attorney would have had a field day arguing potential bias or even questioning his involvement altogether.
Another issue was the sheer number of supporting characters. Several of them appear briefly during the opening chapters only to disappear almost entirely from the story. In fact, with the exception of two of them, I'm still trying to figure out why they were introduced in the first place. The group of Arnie's old school friends fared a little better because they remained relevant throughout the investigation, but even then they occasionally blended together, making it difficult to remember who was who.
I also thought the overall setup was a little too transparent.
I understood what the author was trying to accomplish by surrounding the mystery with such a colorful cast, but when some characters are so outrageously over-the-top, others are completely forgettable, and the rest fall somewhere in the middle, it unintentionally narrows the field of suspects. Before long, it became fairly easy to rule certain people out simply because of how they were written.
Despite those criticisms, I genuinely enjoyed this book. The investigation kept me engaged, I liked Karen and her team, and I appreciated how accessible the story was for someone jumping into the series this late. Since the entire series is available through Kindle Unlimited, I'll almost certainly be going back to start from the beginning to spend a little more time with these characters now that I've finally been introduced to them.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
That said, I never felt lost.
The author does a great job introducing Karen's team and making their long history together feel natural, so even as a newcomer I had no trouble keeping up with the relationships between the core characters. Although I am now desperately trying to remember what other series I must be confusing this one with.
While I enjoyed this novel overall, I did have a few issues with it, although, let's be honest, no book is ever perfect.
My biggest complaint was Arnie's involvement in the investigation itself. There is absolutely no way he should have been allowed anywhere near that case, let alone be one of the officers actively working it. He was directly connected not only to the victims, but also to the events of that night thirty-five years earlier. The only thing clearing him was his own claim that he'd been drunk and couldn't remember what happened. That's... not exactly airtight. Any halfway competent defense attorney would have had a field day arguing potential bias or even questioning his involvement altogether.
Another issue was the sheer number of supporting characters. Several of them appear briefly during the opening chapters only to disappear almost entirely from the story. In fact, with the exception of two of them, I'm still trying to figure out why they were introduced in the first place. The group of Arnie's old school friends fared a little better because they remained relevant throughout the investigation, but even then they occasionally blended together, making it difficult to remember who was who.
I also thought the overall setup was a little too transparent.
I understood what the author was trying to accomplish by surrounding the mystery with such a colorful cast, but when some characters are so outrageously over-the-top, others are completely forgettable, and the rest fall somewhere in the middle, it unintentionally narrows the field of suspects. Before long, it became fairly easy to rule certain people out simply because of how they were written.
Despite those criticisms, I genuinely enjoyed this book. The investigation kept me engaged, I liked Karen and her team, and I appreciated how accessible the story was for someone jumping into the series this late. Since the entire series is available through Kindle Unlimited, I'll almost certainly be going back to start from the beginning to spend a little more time with these characters now that I've finally been introduced to them.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy of *Lie To Me* before publication. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
*Lie To Me* is a dark and compelling police procedural about friendship, buried secrets and a disappearance that returns to haunt everyone involved thirty-five years later. DS Arnie Hodgson has always believed that his childhood friend Damon died after vanishing during a night at the fairground. When Damon is suddenly found murdered in the present day, Arnie is forced to accept that his friend had survived—and that somebody has now killed him before he could reveal where he had been.
The case becomes even more disturbing when Karen and Arnie discover a vivid scarlet mark burned into Damon’s chest using a Victorian branding iron shaped like a scythe. Their investigation takes them back to the coastal town of Humberston and to the group of friends who were together on the night Damon disappeared. Memories conflict, stories begin to unravel and it becomes clear that several people have been lying about what really happened that summer.
The personal connection gives the investigation greater emotional weight than a conventional murder case. Arnie is not simply interviewing suspects; he is questioning people he once trusted while reconsidering his own memories of the past. Karen provides an important balance, supporting her colleague while recognising that his grief and guilt may affect his judgment. Their partnership remains one of the strongest aspects of the story.
The mystery develops at a steady pace, with further violence making it clear that the killer is determined to protect a long-buried secret. I enjoyed the combination of the present-day murders and the unanswered questions surrounding Damon’s original disappearance. The coastal setting, old friendships and sinister branding mark create an effective atmosphere, while the changing suspicions kept me interested in discovering who was telling the truth.
Some of the characters’ secrecy and decisions required a little suspension of disbelief, particularly given how many years had passed and how far certain people were prepared to go to prevent the truth emerging. The number of revelations also makes the later chapters feel slightly crowded. Nevertheless, the emotional stakes, strong central investigation and personal danger facing Arnie kept the story gripping.
Overall, *Lie To Me* is an absorbing and well-paced crime thriller with an intriguing cold case, a disturbing present-day murder and a strong emotional focus on Arnie’s past. Although this is the twelfth book in the Detective Karen Hart series, the central mystery can still be followed by readers who are new to the characters. Existing fans, however, will particularly appreciate the deeper insight into Arnie and the effect the investigation has on the team.
*Lie To Me* is a dark and compelling police procedural about friendship, buried secrets and a disappearance that returns to haunt everyone involved thirty-five years later. DS Arnie Hodgson has always believed that his childhood friend Damon died after vanishing during a night at the fairground. When Damon is suddenly found murdered in the present day, Arnie is forced to accept that his friend had survived—and that somebody has now killed him before he could reveal where he had been.
The case becomes even more disturbing when Karen and Arnie discover a vivid scarlet mark burned into Damon’s chest using a Victorian branding iron shaped like a scythe. Their investigation takes them back to the coastal town of Humberston and to the group of friends who were together on the night Damon disappeared. Memories conflict, stories begin to unravel and it becomes clear that several people have been lying about what really happened that summer.
The personal connection gives the investigation greater emotional weight than a conventional murder case. Arnie is not simply interviewing suspects; he is questioning people he once trusted while reconsidering his own memories of the past. Karen provides an important balance, supporting her colleague while recognising that his grief and guilt may affect his judgment. Their partnership remains one of the strongest aspects of the story.
The mystery develops at a steady pace, with further violence making it clear that the killer is determined to protect a long-buried secret. I enjoyed the combination of the present-day murders and the unanswered questions surrounding Damon’s original disappearance. The coastal setting, old friendships and sinister branding mark create an effective atmosphere, while the changing suspicions kept me interested in discovering who was telling the truth.
Some of the characters’ secrecy and decisions required a little suspension of disbelief, particularly given how many years had passed and how far certain people were prepared to go to prevent the truth emerging. The number of revelations also makes the later chapters feel slightly crowded. Nevertheless, the emotional stakes, strong central investigation and personal danger facing Arnie kept the story gripping.
Overall, *Lie To Me* is an absorbing and well-paced crime thriller with an intriguing cold case, a disturbing present-day murder and a strong emotional focus on Arnie’s past. Although this is the twelfth book in the Detective Karen Hart series, the central mystery can still be followed by readers who are new to the characters. Existing fans, however, will particularly appreciate the deeper insight into Arnie and the effect the investigation has on the team.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Lie To Me, is the twelfth novel in the Detective Karen Hart series by D.S. Butler.
In this latest instalment Karen Hart is pitting professional duty against deeply painful personal history. A tense small-town thriller that proves the bonds of childhood friendship can easily be forged into a deadly noose.
It all begins with a single phone call that shatters the world of DS Arnie Hodgson. The voice on the line delivers the impossible: “We’ve found him. Damon’s finally been found.” For thirty-five long years, Arnie carried the heavy grief that his childhood friend had met a tragic end decades ago. But the horrific reality is far worse. Damon didn’t die all those years ago—he was brutally murdered just yesterday.
Driven by empathy for her grieving partner, DS Karen Hart steps into the investigation, only for the case to quickly descend into something far more ritualistic and sinister. Seared deep into Damon’s chest is a vivid, horrifying scarlet mark—the imprint of a heavy Victorian branding iron shaped like a scythe. The investigation draws Karen and Arnie back to the windswept, insular coastal town of Humberston. Thirty-five years prior, Arnie and a tight-knit circle of local friends were all together at a bustling fairground on the fateful summer night Damon vanished.
As the detectives begin tracking down the adult members of Arnie’s old childhood clique, they realize that Humberston’s picturesque seaside charm is a façade built over a massive graveyard of collective lies. The stakes skyrocket when the team unearths a second body, confirming that the killer is actively cleaning house to keep the past buried.
The nightmare hits close to home when another person intimately connected to Arnie is slaughtered, sporting the exact same theatrical scythe brand scorched into their skin. When a shadowy driver attempts to violently run Arnie down in the street, the procedural turns into a desperate race for survival. Arnie is left to confront an agonizing, paranoid question: Is one of his oldest, closest friends a serial executioner? And can Karen help him unmask the culprit before Arnie becomes the final piece of historical clean up?
I have followed this series from the start and it remains fresh. The plots are well thought out and excellently paced. This latest instalment wasn’t my favourite book in the series but still made an enjoyable read. 3.5 stars.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Amazon Publishing UK for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
In this latest instalment Karen Hart is pitting professional duty against deeply painful personal history. A tense small-town thriller that proves the bonds of childhood friendship can easily be forged into a deadly noose.
It all begins with a single phone call that shatters the world of DS Arnie Hodgson. The voice on the line delivers the impossible: “We’ve found him. Damon’s finally been found.” For thirty-five long years, Arnie carried the heavy grief that his childhood friend had met a tragic end decades ago. But the horrific reality is far worse. Damon didn’t die all those years ago—he was brutally murdered just yesterday.
Driven by empathy for her grieving partner, DS Karen Hart steps into the investigation, only for the case to quickly descend into something far more ritualistic and sinister. Seared deep into Damon’s chest is a vivid, horrifying scarlet mark—the imprint of a heavy Victorian branding iron shaped like a scythe. The investigation draws Karen and Arnie back to the windswept, insular coastal town of Humberston. Thirty-five years prior, Arnie and a tight-knit circle of local friends were all together at a bustling fairground on the fateful summer night Damon vanished.
As the detectives begin tracking down the adult members of Arnie’s old childhood clique, they realize that Humberston’s picturesque seaside charm is a façade built over a massive graveyard of collective lies. The stakes skyrocket when the team unearths a second body, confirming that the killer is actively cleaning house to keep the past buried.
The nightmare hits close to home when another person intimately connected to Arnie is slaughtered, sporting the exact same theatrical scythe brand scorched into their skin. When a shadowy driver attempts to violently run Arnie down in the street, the procedural turns into a desperate race for survival. Arnie is left to confront an agonizing, paranoid question: Is one of his oldest, closest friends a serial executioner? And can Karen help him unmask the culprit before Arnie becomes the final piece of historical clean up?
I have followed this series from the start and it remains fresh. The plots are well thought out and excellently paced. This latest instalment wasn’t my favourite book in the series but still made an enjoyable read. 3.5 stars.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Amazon Publishing UK for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Netgalley and Brilliance Publishing for providing me with an Advance Listener Copy of Lie to Me by DS Butler
⭐⭐⭐⭐
As soon as he picks up the phone, Arnie knows something is terribly wrong. ‘We’ve found him. Damon’s finally been found.’ For thirty-five years, DS Arnie Hodgson believed his childhood friend was dead. But he didn’t die back then. He was murdered yesterday.
DS Karen Hart’s heart breaks for her colleague as she joins the investigation, but soon the case takes a darker turn. Burned into Damon’s chest is a vivid scarlet mark—a Victorian branding iron shaped like a scythe. Why did Damon vanish that night? And why has someone killed him now?
As Karen and Arnie track down his old friends in the small coastal town of Humberston, they become sure answers lie buried in Arnie’s past; they were all together at the fairground that summer night thirty-five years ago when Damon disappeared. And when the detectives uncover another body, it’s clear someone will kill to keep their secrets buried.
Then another person close to Arnie is brutally murdered—with the same vivid scarlet mark seared into their skin. And when a driver tries to run Arnie down in a car, he must finally confront a terrifying question: is one of his old friends a killer? And if so, can he bring them to justice before they turn on him next?
I honestly thought I had read a number of books by DS Butler but it seems I was mixed up and this is actually my first book.
I like that the book worked perfectly well as a standalone, I didn't feel that I needed to read the previous books to know what was going on.
I was kept on the edge of my seat the whole time and I didn't guess where the story was going. There are a bunch of interesting characters in this book and they all add to the story which I enjoyed.
Parts of the story were quite disturbing but that can be expected in thriller/crime thriller books.
I don't want to say too much about the plot as I feel going into the story blind is the best way to read it.
I definitely didn't see the ending coming so really liked that it wasn't obvious (to me) who did what.
The narrator was great changing her voice enough so you knew it was different characters but not too much to be overacting.
I would recommend for thriller lovers and I will be looking in to reading more books by this author.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
As soon as he picks up the phone, Arnie knows something is terribly wrong. ‘We’ve found him. Damon’s finally been found.’ For thirty-five years, DS Arnie Hodgson believed his childhood friend was dead. But he didn’t die back then. He was murdered yesterday.
DS Karen Hart’s heart breaks for her colleague as she joins the investigation, but soon the case takes a darker turn. Burned into Damon’s chest is a vivid scarlet mark—a Victorian branding iron shaped like a scythe. Why did Damon vanish that night? And why has someone killed him now?
As Karen and Arnie track down his old friends in the small coastal town of Humberston, they become sure answers lie buried in Arnie’s past; they were all together at the fairground that summer night thirty-five years ago when Damon disappeared. And when the detectives uncover another body, it’s clear someone will kill to keep their secrets buried.
Then another person close to Arnie is brutally murdered—with the same vivid scarlet mark seared into their skin. And when a driver tries to run Arnie down in a car, he must finally confront a terrifying question: is one of his old friends a killer? And if so, can he bring them to justice before they turn on him next?
I honestly thought I had read a number of books by DS Butler but it seems I was mixed up and this is actually my first book.
I like that the book worked perfectly well as a standalone, I didn't feel that I needed to read the previous books to know what was going on.
I was kept on the edge of my seat the whole time and I didn't guess where the story was going. There are a bunch of interesting characters in this book and they all add to the story which I enjoyed.
Parts of the story were quite disturbing but that can be expected in thriller/crime thriller books.
I don't want to say too much about the plot as I feel going into the story blind is the best way to read it.
I definitely didn't see the ending coming so really liked that it wasn't obvious (to me) who did what.
The narrator was great changing her voice enough so you knew it was different characters but not too much to be overacting.
I would recommend for thriller lovers and I will be looking in to reading more books by this author.
September 14, 2026
I’m normally a big fan of the Karen Hart series, but Lie to Me felt like a bit of a step backwards. It’s still unmistakably D. S. Butler and still very well written, but this one just didn’t have the same grip as the previous investigations.
The case begins with the discovery of a body at an abandoned farm, but it quickly becomes much more complicated when the investigation starts to connect with DI Scott Morgan and his past. I actually liked the idea of bringing Morgan more centrally into the story and giving the case a personal connection to someone within the team. On paper, it should have made this one of the more compelling books in the series. For me, though, it never quite delivered on that potential.
One of my biggest problems was the length. This is considerably longer than the usual Karen Hart book, and I really don't think it needed to be. There are multiple threads involving the victim, Morgan, his family and events from the past, but instead of making the mystery feel more intricate, they sometimes made it feel drawn out. There was a good 300–350 page crime novel hiding inside a 400-plus-page book.
Karen herself remains the reason I enjoy this series. She’s a strong, believable lead without ever becoming one of those ridiculously indestructible fictional detectives, and I still enjoy the dynamics within the Lincolnshire police team. Having Morgan under greater scrutiny also changes the usual balance within the group, which was an interesting direction for Butler to take.
Unfortunately, the actual mystery never properly grabbed me. There are revelations and twists along the way, but I didn’t have that feeling of desperately needing to know what happened next. At times I found myself reading because I wanted to finish the investigation rather than because the investigation was pulling me along.
That’s probably why this one is such a difficult book to rate. The writing itself is good, the established characters remain strong and there are some interesting ideas surrounding loyalty, family and how well you really know the people around you. But compared with what D. S. Butler has already delivered in this series, Lie to Me feels overlong and strangely lacking in urgency.
Not a bad book by any means, but definitely not Karen Hart at her best
The case begins with the discovery of a body at an abandoned farm, but it quickly becomes much more complicated when the investigation starts to connect with DI Scott Morgan and his past. I actually liked the idea of bringing Morgan more centrally into the story and giving the case a personal connection to someone within the team. On paper, it should have made this one of the more compelling books in the series. For me, though, it never quite delivered on that potential.
One of my biggest problems was the length. This is considerably longer than the usual Karen Hart book, and I really don't think it needed to be. There are multiple threads involving the victim, Morgan, his family and events from the past, but instead of making the mystery feel more intricate, they sometimes made it feel drawn out. There was a good 300–350 page crime novel hiding inside a 400-plus-page book.
Karen herself remains the reason I enjoy this series. She’s a strong, believable lead without ever becoming one of those ridiculously indestructible fictional detectives, and I still enjoy the dynamics within the Lincolnshire police team. Having Morgan under greater scrutiny also changes the usual balance within the group, which was an interesting direction for Butler to take.
Unfortunately, the actual mystery never properly grabbed me. There are revelations and twists along the way, but I didn’t have that feeling of desperately needing to know what happened next. At times I found myself reading because I wanted to finish the investigation rather than because the investigation was pulling me along.
That’s probably why this one is such a difficult book to rate. The writing itself is good, the established characters remain strong and there are some interesting ideas surrounding loyalty, family and how well you really know the people around you. But compared with what D. S. Butler has already delivered in this series, Lie to Me feels overlong and strangely lacking in urgency.
Not a bad book by any means, but definitely not Karen Hart at her best
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September 15, 2026NetGalley Audiobook Review
Lie to Me delivers exactly what I’ve come to expect from the Detective Karen Hart series—steady tension, layered police work, and a case that keeps tightening until the final reveal snaps everything into place. Book twelve leans into the emotional stakes more than some of the earlier installments, giving Hart moments of vulnerability that deepen her character without slowing the pace.
Story & Pacing
The mystery kicks off quickly and stays engaging throughout. D.S. Butler balances procedural detail with character-driven beats, making the investigation feel grounded while still offering those “just one more chapter” turns. The twists are well-seeded, and even when I suspected where things were heading, the execution kept me invested.
Characters
Hart continues to be the anchor of the series—determined, intuitive, and quietly resilient. I appreciated the way her personal life threads into the case without overshadowing it. The supporting cast adds texture, especially the team dynamics, which feel lived-in and authentic at this point in the series.
Narration
The narrator once again elevates the experience. Their delivery captures the tension of the investigation while giving each character a distinct presence. The pacing is smooth, and emotional beats land with clarity. It’s the kind of narration that makes the audiobook format feel like the best way to experience the story.
Overall
A strong, engaging addition to the Karen Hart series. Fans will appreciate the tight plotting and character depth, and newcomers could jump in here—though the emotional payoff is richer if you’ve followed Hart’s journey. The audiobook is polished, immersive, and easy to binge.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
Lie to Me delivers exactly what I’ve come to expect from the Detective Karen Hart series—steady tension, layered police work, and a case that keeps tightening until the final reveal snaps everything into place. Book twelve leans into the emotional stakes more than some of the earlier installments, giving Hart moments of vulnerability that deepen her character without slowing the pace.
Story & Pacing
The mystery kicks off quickly and stays engaging throughout. D.S. Butler balances procedural detail with character-driven beats, making the investigation feel grounded while still offering those “just one more chapter” turns. The twists are well-seeded, and even when I suspected where things were heading, the execution kept me invested.
Characters
Hart continues to be the anchor of the series—determined, intuitive, and quietly resilient. I appreciated the way her personal life threads into the case without overshadowing it. The supporting cast adds texture, especially the team dynamics, which feel lived-in and authentic at this point in the series.
Narration
The narrator once again elevates the experience. Their delivery captures the tension of the investigation while giving each character a distinct presence. The pacing is smooth, and emotional beats land with clarity. It’s the kind of narration that makes the audiobook format feel like the best way to experience the story.
Overall
A strong, engaging addition to the Karen Hart series. Fans will appreciate the tight plotting and character depth, and newcomers could jump in here—though the emotional payoff is richer if you’ve followed Hart’s journey. The audiobook is polished, immersive, and easy to binge.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
When the body of a man is discovered having been branded after his death, it turns out he is Damon, the childhood friend of DS Arnie Hodgson. Damon disappeared thirty-five years ago, at the same time another friend committed suicide. The night Damon vanished, Arnie was at a fair with a group of friends. He drank too much and passed out, so had no idea what precipitated the disappearance and the suicide.
Colleague DS Karen Hart joins forces with Arnie and her team to unravel the mystery surrounding Damon’s disappearance and subsequent death. All of Arnie’s close friends from those many years ago are suspects, especially since the brand found on Damon had significance to them. As another branded murder occurs and someone attempts to run down Arnie, the mystery deepens and takes an emotional toll on him.
This is the twelfth installment in the DS Karen Hart series, one of my must-read series. I’ve read quite a few of them, and while each book contributes to the development of the recurring characters, this one could stand alone.
Well-written, the plot keeps readers guessing about the culprit and their motives throughout the book. The investigation progresses at a steady pace, and the story unfolds from Karen, Arnie, and the unnamed killer’s perspectives. It’s an engrossing read that I couldn’t put down.
I like the main character and the relationship she has with her co-workers, interesting characters in their own right. Karen is competent, engaging, and empathetic.
This is a solid addition to the series that will appeal to fans of character-driven mysteries, UK crime stories, and police procedurals.
Thanks to @NetGalley and @AmazonPublishing and #ThomasandMercer for the DRC.
Colleague DS Karen Hart joins forces with Arnie and her team to unravel the mystery surrounding Damon’s disappearance and subsequent death. All of Arnie’s close friends from those many years ago are suspects, especially since the brand found on Damon had significance to them. As another branded murder occurs and someone attempts to run down Arnie, the mystery deepens and takes an emotional toll on him.
This is the twelfth installment in the DS Karen Hart series, one of my must-read series. I’ve read quite a few of them, and while each book contributes to the development of the recurring characters, this one could stand alone.
Well-written, the plot keeps readers guessing about the culprit and their motives throughout the book. The investigation progresses at a steady pace, and the story unfolds from Karen, Arnie, and the unnamed killer’s perspectives. It’s an engrossing read that I couldn’t put down.
I like the main character and the relationship she has with her co-workers, interesting characters in their own right. Karen is competent, engaging, and empathetic.
This is a solid addition to the series that will appeal to fans of character-driven mysteries, UK crime stories, and police procedurals.
Thanks to @NetGalley and @AmazonPublishing and #ThomasandMercer for the DRC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5🌟
Summary:
📘Arnie, a detective, gets a call that his friend, who disappeared 35 years ago, has been found. The only problem is he was murdered yesterday. Arnie begins to investigate with Karen as the lead detective. The investigation leads them to the door of all of Arnie’s closest friends from the past, and one of them may be the killer.
My Thoughts:
💭This is a police procedural book at its finest. I was all in from the beginning. Where had Damien been for 35 years, and why was Arnie the only person who didn't have a secret? The clues are all laid out so you can solve it alongside the team. The more they investigate, the more impossible solving the case becomes. Nothing is simple, and everyone is hiding something. I started to dislike some characters and wanted them to be the villain, but it wasn't that simple. I guessed the correct villain early on, but I wasn't sure. At the 75% point, I was sure I was right. It didn't spoil the story too much because I felt like a real detective figuring it all out. This mystery is so well written, and the characters are perfectly developed. I loved how the detective team really cared about each other. This book is part of a series, but I did not feel lost at all. This is book 12 in the Karen Hart detective series, so I have a lot of books to catch up on. I listened to the audiobook, and it was perfect. I felt all of the tension. Each character had a distinct voice, even with only one narrator. This is an emotional, tense, suspenseful police procedural mystery. If you love putting all the clues together and love a detective team that is connected, then this is your next read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Audio for the opportunity to review this ALC.
Summary:
📘Arnie, a detective, gets a call that his friend, who disappeared 35 years ago, has been found. The only problem is he was murdered yesterday. Arnie begins to investigate with Karen as the lead detective. The investigation leads them to the door of all of Arnie’s closest friends from the past, and one of them may be the killer.
My Thoughts:
💭This is a police procedural book at its finest. I was all in from the beginning. Where had Damien been for 35 years, and why was Arnie the only person who didn't have a secret? The clues are all laid out so you can solve it alongside the team. The more they investigate, the more impossible solving the case becomes. Nothing is simple, and everyone is hiding something. I started to dislike some characters and wanted them to be the villain, but it wasn't that simple. I guessed the correct villain early on, but I wasn't sure. At the 75% point, I was sure I was right. It didn't spoil the story too much because I felt like a real detective figuring it all out. This mystery is so well written, and the characters are perfectly developed. I loved how the detective team really cared about each other. This book is part of a series, but I did not feel lost at all. This is book 12 in the Karen Hart detective series, so I have a lot of books to catch up on. I listened to the audiobook, and it was perfect. I felt all of the tension. Each character had a distinct voice, even with only one narrator. This is an emotional, tense, suspenseful police procedural mystery. If you love putting all the clues together and love a detective team that is connected, then this is your next read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Audio for the opportunity to review this ALC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Lie to Me is a tense, atmospheric thriller that pulls you straight into the emotional heart of its mystery. D. S. Butler delivers a gripping story rooted in long‑buried secrets, fractured friendships, and the kind of past that refuses to stay hidden.
The opening is a gut punch: Arnie learning that his childhood friend Damon—missing for thirty‑five years—has not only been found, but murdered. The shock of that moment sets the tone for the entire investigation. Karen Hart’s empathy and determination balance Arnie’s grief beautifully, and their partnership gives the story a strong emotional core.
The case itself is wonderfully layered. The scarlet branding mark, the fairground memories, and the tight‑knit coastal community of Humberston all add a haunting quality to the unfolding mystery. As Karen and Arnie revisit the people who were there that summer night, the tension builds steadily, and the sense that someone is willing to kill to keep the past buried gives the book a sharp, unsettling edge.
The stakes rise even higher when another person close to Arnie is murdered, and the danger becomes personal in a way that keeps the pages turning. The question of whether one of Arnie’s old friends could be responsible adds a compelling emotional conflict—loyalty, fear, and betrayal all tangled together.
This is a fast‑paced, atmospheric read with strong character dynamics and a mystery that tightens with every chapter. A gripping addition to the Karen Hart series.
With thanks to DS Butler, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
The opening is a gut punch: Arnie learning that his childhood friend Damon—missing for thirty‑five years—has not only been found, but murdered. The shock of that moment sets the tone for the entire investigation. Karen Hart’s empathy and determination balance Arnie’s grief beautifully, and their partnership gives the story a strong emotional core.
The case itself is wonderfully layered. The scarlet branding mark, the fairground memories, and the tight‑knit coastal community of Humberston all add a haunting quality to the unfolding mystery. As Karen and Arnie revisit the people who were there that summer night, the tension builds steadily, and the sense that someone is willing to kill to keep the past buried gives the book a sharp, unsettling edge.
The stakes rise even higher when another person close to Arnie is murdered, and the danger becomes personal in a way that keeps the pages turning. The question of whether one of Arnie’s old friends could be responsible adds a compelling emotional conflict—loyalty, fear, and betrayal all tangled together.
This is a fast‑paced, atmospheric read with strong character dynamics and a mystery that tightens with every chapter. A gripping addition to the Karen Hart series.
With thanks to DS Butler, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐ 3 Stars
Okay… this audiobook had me feeling like I was personally invited to the world’s most stressful high school reunion. 😂
Thirty-five years ago, Damon disappears. Everyone assumes he’s dead. Fast-forward to the present and—SURPRISE!—he wasn’t dead. He was murdered. Yesterday. 😳
And because apparently one murder isn’t enough drama for this group, we get mysterious branding marks, old secrets, more bodies, attempted vehicular homicide, and enough suspicious childhood friends to make me question EVERYONE.
The premise was honestly really good, and I liked the whole “something terrible happened 35 years ago and now someone is making sure nobody talks” setup. The investigation kept me curious, and there were definitely moments where I thought, Okay, WHAT IS GOING ON HERE?!
But… whew. 😂
The pacing felt a little uneven for me, and there were times when I felt like the story was taking the scenic route when I was ready for someone to just start TALKING. I also found myself occasionally forgetting who was connected to whom because apparently everyone in Humberston has enough secrets to fill several filing cabinets.
The audiobook itself was decent, and the narration worked for the story, but it didn’t quite suck me in the way a really addictive thriller does.
Overall: good mystery, creepy premise, plenty of secrets, and a suspicious amount of people who desperately need to learn the benefits of therapy and honesty. 😂
I didn’t hate it, but I didn’t love it either. Three stars feels fair.
Now excuse me while I side-eye every childhood friend I’ve ever had. 👀
Okay… this audiobook had me feeling like I was personally invited to the world’s most stressful high school reunion. 😂
Thirty-five years ago, Damon disappears. Everyone assumes he’s dead. Fast-forward to the present and—SURPRISE!—he wasn’t dead. He was murdered. Yesterday. 😳
And because apparently one murder isn’t enough drama for this group, we get mysterious branding marks, old secrets, more bodies, attempted vehicular homicide, and enough suspicious childhood friends to make me question EVERYONE.
The premise was honestly really good, and I liked the whole “something terrible happened 35 years ago and now someone is making sure nobody talks” setup. The investigation kept me curious, and there were definitely moments where I thought, Okay, WHAT IS GOING ON HERE?!
But… whew. 😂
The pacing felt a little uneven for me, and there were times when I felt like the story was taking the scenic route when I was ready for someone to just start TALKING. I also found myself occasionally forgetting who was connected to whom because apparently everyone in Humberston has enough secrets to fill several filing cabinets.
The audiobook itself was decent, and the narration worked for the story, but it didn’t quite suck me in the way a really addictive thriller does.
Overall: good mystery, creepy premise, plenty of secrets, and a suspicious amount of people who desperately need to learn the benefits of therapy and honesty. 😂
I didn’t hate it, but I didn’t love it either. Three stars feels fair.
Now excuse me while I side-eye every childhood friend I’ve ever had. 👀
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have been introduced to some brilliant writers across the Pond from us mystery lovers in the States. Part of the problem has been that many of them are already in progress by the time I have an opportunity to join in the fun. Such is the case with D. S. Butler’s Karen Hart series. “Lie to Me” is the 12th novel in the series. And what an emotional book to join in on.
DS Hart is tasked with helping her partner DS Arnie Hodgson solve a 35-year-old mystery. One that Hodgson is fully involved in. Back in his teen years, one of his best friends disappeared. After this amount of time, all have assumed he was dead. The issue? Someone found his freshly killed body in the spot where he was last scene.
Can you see why I had to read this book? Such a great concept.
DS Hodgson is more the focus of this book. Not being invested in these characters, that was fine with me. I just read it like a stand-alone novel, and it works just fine. There are things you won’t understand, but it’s easy to catch up.
I thought this book was incredible. The mystery and emotions behind all of it was well written. You really feel for several of the characters, especially Hodgson.
I’m looking forward to catching up on this series. When you stumble across a writer of this caliber, you will definitely want to start doing a deep dive into their work.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.
DS Hart is tasked with helping her partner DS Arnie Hodgson solve a 35-year-old mystery. One that Hodgson is fully involved in. Back in his teen years, one of his best friends disappeared. After this amount of time, all have assumed he was dead. The issue? Someone found his freshly killed body in the spot where he was last scene.
Can you see why I had to read this book? Such a great concept.
DS Hodgson is more the focus of this book. Not being invested in these characters, that was fine with me. I just read it like a stand-alone novel, and it works just fine. There are things you won’t understand, but it’s easy to catch up.
I thought this book was incredible. The mystery and emotions behind all of it was well written. You really feel for several of the characters, especially Hodgson.
I’m looking forward to catching up on this series. When you stumble across a writer of this caliber, you will definitely want to start doing a deep dive into their work.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
REVIEW
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
STORYLINE :
I love a cold case book, and this is no different. The cases in this book are closely related to a main character in the series, DS Arnie Hodgson. The people involved are his old classmates from 35 years ago.
I think the storyline was delivered well, and I liked reading it. From discovering what actually happened 35 years ago and combining present and past, it waw good. My only complaint is that it was a bit boring in the beginning, but it picked up and delivered an amazing plot twist. The detectives did a good job as usual, and it was nice to see them piece all the evidence together.
In addition, I would have liked a better ending. The main culprit was arrested, and I wanted the same for the side ones, too. I just didn't get closure.
CHARACTERS:
The characters were well written, especially Arnie Hodgson. He went through the different stages of grief, and you could feel it all in the pages.
It was nice to see all the other characters, too, especially Karen after what happened in the previous book and her upcoming wedding.
WRITING STYLE:
It was good.
SETTINGS:
It was okay. All the scenes were well described, and I could visualise them.
OVERALL:
It was a good addition to the series. I liked how a cold case was focused on. It brought a new edge. I would definitely recommend.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
STORYLINE :
I love a cold case book, and this is no different. The cases in this book are closely related to a main character in the series, DS Arnie Hodgson. The people involved are his old classmates from 35 years ago.
I think the storyline was delivered well, and I liked reading it. From discovering what actually happened 35 years ago and combining present and past, it waw good. My only complaint is that it was a bit boring in the beginning, but it picked up and delivered an amazing plot twist. The detectives did a good job as usual, and it was nice to see them piece all the evidence together.
In addition, I would have liked a better ending. The main culprit was arrested, and I wanted the same for the side ones, too. I just didn't get closure.
CHARACTERS:
The characters were well written, especially Arnie Hodgson. He went through the different stages of grief, and you could feel it all in the pages.
It was nice to see all the other characters, too, especially Karen after what happened in the previous book and her upcoming wedding.
WRITING STYLE:
It was good.
SETTINGS:
It was okay. All the scenes were well described, and I could visualise them.
OVERALL:
It was a good addition to the series. I liked how a cold case was focused on. It brought a new edge. I would definitely recommend.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is my first from this author and I can definitely say that I can’t wait to see more from this series. I really loved Karen and Arnie’s dynamic as colleagues. Though I had a hard time believing that Arnie would have been allowed to investigate this case with his personal affiliation with it? (This novel is set in the UK so I’m not familiar with their regulations and such when it comes to police work.) I think it would’ve been still just as effective with him on the sidelines because it was so refreshing to see a mystery where the main characters don’t have personal drama leaking into the entirety of the investigation - I really appreciated how focused it remained on the case even despite it being directly linked to Arnie. The personal connection definitely made it all the more gripping because you’re constantly examining his relationships for holes. I wanted to get to know Sylvie more - I hope to see her in the future books because her and Arnie’s relationship was so sweet and felt like an anchor for the grumpy sausage eating man.
The big reveal, however, was not as “believable” as I would’ve expected given how well written the story was (I read it in one night). But I still thought it was a great read through and through. Transitions, bread crumbs, dialogue, tone, and the pacing was everything I could have asked for in a mystery.
The big reveal, however, was not as “believable” as I would’ve expected given how well written the story was (I read it in one night). But I still thought it was a great read through and through. Transitions, bread crumbs, dialogue, tone, and the pacing was everything I could have asked for in a mystery.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
As soon as he picks up the phone, Arnie knows something is terribly wrong. ‘We’ve found him. Damon’s finally been found.’ For thirty-five years, DS Arnie Hodgson believed his childhood friend was dead. But he didn’t die back then. He was murdered yesterday. DS Karen Hart’s heart breaks for her colleague as she joins the investigation, but soon the case takes a darker turn. Burned into Damon’s chest is a vivid scarlet mark—a Victorian branding iron shaped like a scythe. As Karen and Arnie track down his old friends in the small coastal town of Humberston, they become sure answers lie buried in Arnie’s past; they were all together at the fairground that summer night thirty-five years ago when Damon disappeared. And when the detectives uncover another body, it’s clear someone will kill to keep their secrets buried. Then Annie is targeted
The twelfth book in the series & it could be read on its own. A well written murder mystery which kept me guessing right to the end. I was drawn in from the start & engrossed all the way through. I really like Karen who has a good relationship with her team & I’ve enjoyed how the dynamics have evolved. There are twists & turns as the investigation progresses. I look forward to book thirteen
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The twelfth book in the series & it could be read on its own. A well written murder mystery which kept me guessing right to the end. I was drawn in from the start & engrossed all the way through. I really like Karen who has a good relationship with her team & I’ve enjoyed how the dynamics have evolved. There are twists & turns as the investigation progresses. I look forward to book thirteen
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you Netgalley and Brilliance Publishing for the audiobook of Lie To Me, written by D. S. Butler and narrated by Henrietta Meire
This one unfortunately wasn’t for me. The story was just way too slow, and I had a hard time staying engaged. I kept waiting for it to really pick up or for something to pull me into the mystery, but that never really happened for me.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Henrietta Meire, and I think the narration added to the problem. Her performance gave me very strong cozy mystery vibes, and since cozy mysteries aren’t really my thing, it just wasn’t a great fit for me. Between the narration and the slower pacing of the story itself, I found my attention wandering quite a bit.
I also questioned why Arnie was allowed to be so involved in the investigation considering his personal connection to everything that happened. That didn’t make a lot of sense to me and was something I kept thinking about while listening.
There were definitely some interesting ideas here, especially with the past coming back into the present, but overall I just wanted more suspense and a faster pace. I think readers who enjoy slower police procedurals or mysteries with more of a cozy feel may have a completely different experience with this one, but it just didn’t keep me engaged.
This one unfortunately wasn’t for me. The story was just way too slow, and I had a hard time staying engaged. I kept waiting for it to really pick up or for something to pull me into the mystery, but that never really happened for me.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Henrietta Meire, and I think the narration added to the problem. Her performance gave me very strong cozy mystery vibes, and since cozy mysteries aren’t really my thing, it just wasn’t a great fit for me. Between the narration and the slower pacing of the story itself, I found my attention wandering quite a bit.
I also questioned why Arnie was allowed to be so involved in the investigation considering his personal connection to everything that happened. That didn’t make a lot of sense to me and was something I kept thinking about while listening.
There were definitely some interesting ideas here, especially with the past coming back into the present, but overall I just wanted more suspense and a faster pace. I think readers who enjoy slower police procedurals or mysteries with more of a cozy feel may have a completely different experience with this one, but it just didn’t keep me engaged.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you so much to Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC copy.
This is my first book of author D.S. Bultler and I'll definitely read more of her work!
The only thing that I didn't quite enjoy was little references here and there to incidents that happened in previous books: Karen's mother-in-law's murder, Karen being attacked, Sophie being attacked. At first, I didn't realise Sandy was a dog.
It's my fault for not reading the books before Lie To Me. Having said that, I was still able to follow along and understand what was going on in this book.
This book is a really good Whodunit woth some Criminal Procedure mixed in.
As a reader, I was really invested in each character and wanted to find out what happened within this group of friends.
I liked how the author made me suspect everyone and brought new evidence in along the way.
Two things that feel unsettled still (which may resolve in the next book) 1. Does the culprit get away with what they are planning at the end of the book and the second involves a spoiler ...why go to France when he had everything going on here?
Overall this is a great thriller that makes me route for the characters and in some instances makes my heart break for them.
This is my first book of author D.S. Bultler and I'll definitely read more of her work!
The only thing that I didn't quite enjoy was little references here and there to incidents that happened in previous books: Karen's mother-in-law's murder, Karen being attacked, Sophie being attacked. At first, I didn't realise Sandy was a dog.
It's my fault for not reading the books before Lie To Me. Having said that, I was still able to follow along and understand what was going on in this book.
This book is a really good Whodunit woth some Criminal Procedure mixed in.
As a reader, I was really invested in each character and wanted to find out what happened within this group of friends.
I liked how the author made me suspect everyone and brought new evidence in along the way.
Two things that feel unsettled still (which may resolve in the next book) 1. Does the culprit get away with what they are planning at the end of the book and the second involves a spoiler ...why go to France when he had everything going on here?
Overall this is a great thriller that makes me route for the characters and in some instances makes my heart break for them.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4* Well executed but loses that 1* for me as the reveal of the actual baddie didn't feel believable, nor did the SOCOs attending the house and not spotting a phone was on charge...won't spoiler here, but yeah, a bit of a big one to swallow.
This is a well-done tale with several characters who could've been the killer/s, and events that felt sufficiently murky from 35 years ago, to make the then-story work well with the reveals in the now.
I'm not sure that IRL the male detective - I've forgotten his name - would've been allowed to investigate events, given his connections with cases past and present, so that was a big suspension of disbelief ask of me. I managed it.
The detective work was good, aided by today's technology but British policing doesn't work at the speed that was described here, especially where budgets are concerned, and more so, where permission from local councils and use of GPR come into it.
Still, a decent tale not bogged down by personal dramas, and a mostly satisfying ending.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Thomas and Mercer for my reading pleasure.
This is a well-done tale with several characters who could've been the killer/s, and events that felt sufficiently murky from 35 years ago, to make the then-story work well with the reveals in the now.
I'm not sure that IRL the male detective - I've forgotten his name - would've been allowed to investigate events, given his connections with cases past and present, so that was a big suspension of disbelief ask of me. I managed it.
The detective work was good, aided by today's technology but British policing doesn't work at the speed that was described here, especially where budgets are concerned, and more so, where permission from local councils and use of GPR come into it.
Still, a decent tale not bogged down by personal dramas, and a mostly satisfying ending.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Thomas and Mercer for my reading pleasure.
September 11, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
🎧ALC Review from Brilliance Audio via NetGalley
📚Lie to Me | Book 12 of The Detective Karen Hart Series
✍🏼DS Butler
🎙️Henrietta Meire
✨Released 09.08.26
While part of a series, I didn’t feel lost jumping in here. There were references to past situations, but that just intrigued me and made me want to go back and read the earlier books.
While the pacing was slow at times, it felt intentional and helped build the tension. I found myself wanting them to “get on with it,” but only because I wanted to know what happened next!
I felt like I had things figured out, both past and present, fairly early on, but I really enjoyed watching the investigative team put it all together. There were definitely times when I questioned whether I was right, but in the end, I was, and that didn’t take anything away from the book for me. I’m a puzzle person, and there were so many pieces here that I enjoyed putting together along the way.
I’ll definitely be going back for more books in this series.
🎧 Narrator Henrietta Meire kept me hooked and definitely added to the tension and suspense.
🎧ALC Review from Brilliance Audio via NetGalley
📚Lie to Me | Book 12 of The Detective Karen Hart Series
✍🏼DS Butler
🎙️Henrietta Meire
✨Released 09.08.26
While part of a series, I didn’t feel lost jumping in here. There were references to past situations, but that just intrigued me and made me want to go back and read the earlier books.
While the pacing was slow at times, it felt intentional and helped build the tension. I found myself wanting them to “get on with it,” but only because I wanted to know what happened next!
I felt like I had things figured out, both past and present, fairly early on, but I really enjoyed watching the investigative team put it all together. There were definitely times when I questioned whether I was right, but in the end, I was, and that didn’t take anything away from the book for me. I’m a puzzle person, and there were so many pieces here that I enjoyed putting together along the way.
I’ll definitely be going back for more books in this series.
🎧 Narrator Henrietta Meire kept me hooked and definitely added to the tension and suspense.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Description
As soon as he picks up the phone, Arnie knows something is terribly wrong. ‘We’ve found him. Damon’s finally been found.’ For thirty-five years, DS Arnie Hodgson believed his childhood friend was dead. But he didn’t die back then. He was murdered .
Lie To Me is a fast-paced, suspenseful read that kept me interested from beginning to end. The twists were twisting. The lies had lies and the suspense will keep you fully invested. Just when you think you have solved the case, you are proven wrong. I liked how the tension kept building. The characters were interesting and easy to get invested in, and the story kept me wanting to read just one more chapter. Overall, a gripping mystery that I’d definitely recommend
Henrietta Meire provided the audible performance. She was fantastic. Easy listening, good cadence. I look forward to listening to her again.
Thank you Netgalley and Brilliance Publishing for my ALC in exchange for my honest review. Mark you calendar for the expected release date September 8th. You don't want to miss out on this thriller.
#LieToMe #Netgalley
As soon as he picks up the phone, Arnie knows something is terribly wrong. ‘We’ve found him. Damon’s finally been found.’ For thirty-five years, DS Arnie Hodgson believed his childhood friend was dead. But he didn’t die back then. He was murdered .
Lie To Me is a fast-paced, suspenseful read that kept me interested from beginning to end. The twists were twisting. The lies had lies and the suspense will keep you fully invested. Just when you think you have solved the case, you are proven wrong. I liked how the tension kept building. The characters were interesting and easy to get invested in, and the story kept me wanting to read just one more chapter. Overall, a gripping mystery that I’d definitely recommend
Henrietta Meire provided the audible performance. She was fantastic. Easy listening, good cadence. I look forward to listening to her again.
Thank you Netgalley and Brilliance Publishing for my ALC in exchange for my honest review. Mark you calendar for the expected release date September 8th. You don't want to miss out on this thriller.
#LieToMe #Netgalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What happens when the past finally catches up with you?
This 12th instalment in DS Karen Hart series is an absolute standout, and while it works seamlessly as a standalone, fans will be completely hooked.
This time, the case strikes right at the heart of DS Arnie Hodgson. The murder of his childhood friend, someone who disappeared decades ago, reopens old wounds and brings years of buried guilt rushing back. Did he fail his group of friends that fateful night?
Arnie’s empathy and remorse threaten to consume him, driving his relentless demand for answers, even as he dreads discovering that one of those long-lost friends might be a killer.
The unwavering loyalty of the team is the true beating heart of the story, balancing genuine support with their signature banter. It was also wonderful to see Arnie and Sylvia’s relationship progress. Racing toward a brilliantly unexpected, neatly tied-up ending, this gripping thriller leaves me eagerly anticipating the next one!
My thanks to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing/Thomas & Mercer for the ARC. All views are my own.
This 12th instalment in DS Karen Hart series is an absolute standout, and while it works seamlessly as a standalone, fans will be completely hooked.
This time, the case strikes right at the heart of DS Arnie Hodgson. The murder of his childhood friend, someone who disappeared decades ago, reopens old wounds and brings years of buried guilt rushing back. Did he fail his group of friends that fateful night?
Arnie’s empathy and remorse threaten to consume him, driving his relentless demand for answers, even as he dreads discovering that one of those long-lost friends might be a killer.
The unwavering loyalty of the team is the true beating heart of the story, balancing genuine support with their signature banter. It was also wonderful to see Arnie and Sylvia’s relationship progress. Racing toward a brilliantly unexpected, neatly tied-up ending, this gripping thriller leaves me eagerly anticipating the next one!
My thanks to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing/Thomas & Mercer for the ARC. All views are my own.
September 12, 2026
4★
🎧- Lie To Me by D.S. Butler
Lie to me is a dark crime thriller about childhood friends and one disappears but years later is found dead as an adult. Everyone thought Damon had died after disappearing thirty five years ago at the fairgrounds. Arnie’s friend’s group all become suspects in Damon’s death before he could tell anyone what had happened to him all those years ago.
Arnie and Karen start to wonder what happened to Damon when they find a branding mark on his chest. The trouble for Arnie and Karen is the suspects stories and timeline are all different is that on purpose or just what happens to memories from 35 years ago?
Karen helps Arnie as he looks at his long time friends to find out what happened she keeps the balance from crossing over to too personal and blinding her from the case at hand.
I really loved this audiobook and the cold case crime aspect of it!
Thank you for the opportunity by NetGalley and the Publishers for letting me read an early copy of this audiobook. All opinions are my own.
🎧- Lie To Me by D.S. Butler
Lie to me is a dark crime thriller about childhood friends and one disappears but years later is found dead as an adult. Everyone thought Damon had died after disappearing thirty five years ago at the fairgrounds. Arnie’s friend’s group all become suspects in Damon’s death before he could tell anyone what had happened to him all those years ago.
Arnie and Karen start to wonder what happened to Damon when they find a branding mark on his chest. The trouble for Arnie and Karen is the suspects stories and timeline are all different is that on purpose or just what happens to memories from 35 years ago?
Karen helps Arnie as he looks at his long time friends to find out what happened she keeps the balance from crossing over to too personal and blinding her from the case at hand.
I really loved this audiobook and the cold case crime aspect of it!
Thank you for the opportunity by NetGalley and the Publishers for letting me read an early copy of this audiobook. All opinions are my own.
September 14, 2026
Detective Sergeant Arnie Hodgson learns that his childhood friend Damon, who vanished 35 years ago and was presumed dead, has just been murdered. Now, THAT is the way to start a book!
In Lie to Me, the search for answers leads Karen and Arnie back to Arnie's old high school gang of friends in the small coastal town of Humberston. If only everyone's stories and timelines about that fateful night 35 years ago didn't clash...
I was enthralled the entire time I was reading Lie to Me and didn't want to put it down! I loved the characters, the story, and the pace of the book. It's a dual timeline, but it's also a dual timeline done well. I was very happy that Arnie was allowed to work on the case with his team, as opposed to the previous book when Karen was NOT.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Lie to Me and highly recommend it!!
Huge thanks to #ThomasAndMercer for providing this book for consideration and review via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own. Lie to Me has an expected publication date of September 22, 2026.
In Lie to Me, the search for answers leads Karen and Arnie back to Arnie's old high school gang of friends in the small coastal town of Humberston. If only everyone's stories and timelines about that fateful night 35 years ago didn't clash...
I was enthralled the entire time I was reading Lie to Me and didn't want to put it down! I loved the characters, the story, and the pace of the book. It's a dual timeline, but it's also a dual timeline done well. I was very happy that Arnie was allowed to work on the case with his team, as opposed to the previous book when Karen was NOT.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Lie to Me and highly recommend it!!
Huge thanks to #ThomasAndMercer for providing this book for consideration and review via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own. Lie to Me has an expected publication date of September 22, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy of this book.
A body is found near the beach. Only this body belongs to someone who disappeared 20 years ago. Detective Karen Hart and her team are called in to investigate. The victim, Damon, was good friends with grumpy detective Arnie, who was passed out drunk when he disappeared. They must find out where he’s been and why!
This was another instalment in a very enjoyable series. However it could be read standalone. The chapters are told mainly by Karen and Arnie, but the mysterious killer also takes the odd one. I liked this method of storytelling, seeing different pov and being able to try and guess which of the suspects could be the killer. Speaking of suspects, the book kept me guessing for a long time, but closer to the end I did manage to work out who it was, but importantly not the why. It didn’t spoil anything for me as even when all readers know who it is, there is a quite exciting twist to enjoy.
A body is found near the beach. Only this body belongs to someone who disappeared 20 years ago. Detective Karen Hart and her team are called in to investigate. The victim, Damon, was good friends with grumpy detective Arnie, who was passed out drunk when he disappeared. They must find out where he’s been and why!
This was another instalment in a very enjoyable series. However it could be read standalone. The chapters are told mainly by Karen and Arnie, but the mysterious killer also takes the odd one. I liked this method of storytelling, seeing different pov and being able to try and guess which of the suspects could be the killer. Speaking of suspects, the book kept me guessing for a long time, but closer to the end I did manage to work out who it was, but importantly not the why. It didn’t spoil anything for me as even when all readers know who it is, there is a quite exciting twist to enjoy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have enjoyed the rest of this series so was looking forward to this one. In this one, a body is found and recognised by an old friend as someone who went missing many years ago and was presumed dead. The person who finds the body is a friend of DS Arnie Hodgson and it is the body of his close friend that is found, someone who went missing after a teenage night at the fairground when Arnie was very drunk and incapacitated. Arnie is involved in the investigation and it is good to get more background on him, his early friendships and the impact the loss of his friend had on him. As usual DS Karen Hart tries to steady the ship as they interview old friends and neighbours of Arnie. I did guess who was responsible, but didn't know why so it wasn't too predictable.
The thing I liked most in this book was how the others in the police team rallied for Arnie and supported him. It will be interesting to see how he copes following this investigation.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC.
The thing I liked most in this book was how the others in the police team rallied for Arnie and supported him. It will be interesting to see how he copes following this investigation.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a little too slow-paced and transparent for me, and I found myself figuring things out pretty early on. There were a few other pieces that didn’t make sense for instance why was Arnie being involved in the investigation. There’s no way he should have been anywhere near that case, let alone actively working it. That just didn’t make sense to me.
There were also a few characters who were introduced and then basically disappeared, and I’m still wondering what the point of bringing them into the story was. I received this audiobook as an ALC, and unfortunately, the narration didn’t really work for me. The narrator was very slow, and I found the delivery pretty boring, which made the book feel even longer.
Overall, this one just wasn’t for me, but I can see it working for readers who like a slower, more predictable mystery.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for providing this ALC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts are my own
There were also a few characters who were introduced and then basically disappeared, and I’m still wondering what the point of bringing them into the story was. I received this audiobook as an ALC, and unfortunately, the narration didn’t really work for me. The narrator was very slow, and I found the delivery pretty boring, which made the book feel even longer.
Overall, this one just wasn’t for me, but I can see it working for readers who like a slower, more predictable mystery.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for providing this ALC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts are my own
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is #12 in the DS Karen Hart series but it can easily be read as a standalone.
I love this series and I’m always keen to read the latest episode.
One of Karen’s team, DS Arnie Hodgson, is the focus of this instalment when one of his oldest friends, Damon, is found murdered. He vanished 35 years ago and his group of friends assumed that he was already dead. Where has Damon been all these years and why did someone kill him now? Then another one of Arnie’s friendship group is brutally murdered and has a mark branded on him, just like Damon. Will Arnie be next? Is one of his closest friends a murderer?
Another brilliant storyline with plenty of unexpected twists and turns to keep you gripped.
Thank you to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK, and Thomas & Mercer for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
I love this series and I’m always keen to read the latest episode.
One of Karen’s team, DS Arnie Hodgson, is the focus of this instalment when one of his oldest friends, Damon, is found murdered. He vanished 35 years ago and his group of friends assumed that he was already dead. Where has Damon been all these years and why did someone kill him now? Then another one of Arnie’s friendship group is brutally murdered and has a mark branded on him, just like Damon. Will Arnie be next? Is one of his closest friends a murderer?
Another brilliant storyline with plenty of unexpected twists and turns to keep you gripped.
Thank you to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK, and Thomas & Mercer for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
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