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Don’t Trust Me
Does Jessica know what the truth is?
A stunning psychological debut with a shocking twist
When she arrives at work to discover every trace of the company she was working for has disappeared, Jessica’s life spirals into freefall.
Her romance with Michael, a celebrated criminologist is already in trouble. He is sick of the unpredictable behaviour caused by her ADHD and is convinced she is a fantasist. When his flat is burgled and precious belongings that remind him of his dead wife are stolen, he blames her.
Forced to prove her innocence, Jessica sets out to unravel the events of the last few months. But when she stumbles on a dead body, the lies, deceptions and betrayals that have dogged her whole life come back to haunt her.
Can anybody trust her?
363 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 23, 2018
216 people are currently reading
893 people want to read
About the author
Joss Stirling
39 books2,521 followersJoss Stirling is a British novelist. Her first novel under this name was the internationally successful, Finding Sky, which is followed by five others in the same series entering into the savant world of young people with special powers. Central to the story are the Benedict Brothers, seven talented guys from Colorado.
In a second series, Struck, Joss begins a new world of detective romance. The first three parts are: Struck (#1) and Stung (#2), and Shaken (#3) and Scorched (#4). Joss introduces readers to four new heroes - Kieran Storm, Nathan Hunter, Joe Masters and Damien Castle, who all attention the Young Detective Agency. The first part, Struck, won the Romantic Novel of the Year 2015 in the UK.
Her new series, PERIL, a paranormal love story set in the near future, is out 13 July 2017.
Joss lives in Oxford, England. She is married with three children.
Stirling also publishes under two pen names: Julia Golding and Eve Edwards.
In a second series, Struck, Joss begins a new world of detective romance. The first three parts are: Struck (#1) and Stung (#2), and Shaken (#3) and Scorched (#4). Joss introduces readers to four new heroes - Kieran Storm, Nathan Hunter, Joe Masters and Damien Castle, who all attention the Young Detective Agency. The first part, Struck, won the Romantic Novel of the Year 2015 in the UK.
Her new series, PERIL, a paranormal love story set in the near future, is out 13 July 2017.
Joss lives in Oxford, England. She is married with three children.
Stirling also publishes under two pen names: Julia Golding and Eve Edwards.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
January 31, 2018
Jessica has just came back from holiday with her boyfriend Michael to find out that the office where she works is closed and her boss missing. This leads her to a manic search for the truth. Jessica was a fantastic character and I was in her corner and rooting for her all the way. I really enjoyed this book and read it in a day because I did not want to put it down. I would like to thank NetGalley, Harper Impulse and Killer Reads for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 17, 2018
A very chilling start, a man lies broken at the bottom of the stairs, will help come in time and will the perpetrator get away with it?
After her holiday with partner Michael, Jessica goes to work only to find her office has a new lock and has become a beauty salon. Her boss Jacob Wrath has disappeared. Ironically their business was to find missing persons!!
Jessica then investigates what has happened to Jacob and after the discovery of a dead body this opens up a whole new can of worms!!!
I’m not going to give anything away plot wise as this is an amazing book, that will keep you guessing all the way through It has more twists than the Monaco Grand Prix circuit, the secrets are slowly revealed, keeping the mystery and suspense going.
A must read book that should come with a warning, highly addictive. So cosy down on the sofa as this is one book you will not be able to put down.
A must read thriller, in fact I would go as far as to say that this is personally my best psychological thriller of 2018 and this is not an easy accolade as I have read 180 books already this year!!!
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
After her holiday with partner Michael, Jessica goes to work only to find her office has a new lock and has become a beauty salon. Her boss Jacob Wrath has disappeared. Ironically their business was to find missing persons!!
Jessica then investigates what has happened to Jacob and after the discovery of a dead body this opens up a whole new can of worms!!!
I’m not going to give anything away plot wise as this is an amazing book, that will keep you guessing all the way through It has more twists than the Monaco Grand Prix circuit, the secrets are slowly revealed, keeping the mystery and suspense going.
A must read book that should come with a warning, highly addictive. So cosy down on the sofa as this is one book you will not be able to put down.
A must read thriller, in fact I would go as far as to say that this is personally my best psychological thriller of 2018 and this is not an easy accolade as I have read 180 books already this year!!!
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
February 22, 2018
🌟🌟🌟🌟STARS
ARC-BOOK REVIEW
Release Date-23/2/18
Don't Trust Me by Joss Stirling was a very enjoyable Psychological thriller.
The story centres around Jessica and the surrounding events that occur after she returns from a holiday in the sun with her older boyfriend renowned criminologist Michael.
It's quite apparent from the very beginning that her relationship with him is on the rocks.
He believes her to be a fantasist with a made up job and also a pathological liar who needs help for her constantly destructive behaviour.
In fact, Jessica's main offence is actually a mental breakdown from depression after her integrity over events with a student was called into question in her previous teaching position.
She resigned on the advice of Michael rather than waiting to be sacked.
This as a result, ended her career in education but also came with an added diagnosis of ADHD.
from Jessica's therapist which at last explained an awful lot to her.
So after returning from there holiday Michael makes a swift exit leaving on business.
Jessica proceeds to travel to her job of three months, researching runaways but on arriving her keys no longer fit and her boss seems to have cleared out without a trace.
dumfounded Jessica starts to look into things unwittingly uncovering more than she realises and it's not long before events themselves escalate dramatically leaving Jessica floundering for answers.
So there was a lot going on here.
Don't Trust Me was a tangled web of intrigue and mystery where nobody could be taken on face value and everybody was a suspect in themselves.
This is told mainly from Jessicas POV with the occasional side scene dedicated to Michael, who does definitely come across as a bit of a jerk.
There is also the input of journal entries from Michaels perfect dead wife, these add an interesting touch and perspective also adding further intimacy and insight into her final days.
Jessica herself is a hot mess, many things contributing to her present self.
She is actually I found a contrast in contradictions, sometimes so difficult to like especially when she goes off plan, selfish decisions and ill thought through actions contribute to her self-destructive conduct.
Other times you kind of get where she's at and why she behaves the way she does.
And when she does do sweet and considerate you realise she's just human at the end of the day.
So yeh difficult one to call, but I did like her the majority of the time.
So The secondary characters here were fantastic each with there own role to play.
My hands-down favourite here though has to be Jessica's friend Drew I absolutely adored everything about the lad in fact if I'm honest I'm not sure Jessica truly deserved him, needed him perhaps and he was definitely good for her but overall he was a lot more decent than she was.
Saying that I am glad he gave her a chance as he helped her to be a better person overall.
And I liked the fact immensely that he was just a normal everyday bloke.
So every little action here was interconnected.
Nothing completely random or left to chance.
Don't Trust me was all wrapped up so neatly and splendidly and I was super impressed with the way the author had carefully crafted the finish of this story.
I did guess some things here but that no way took away from my overall enjoyment of this novel.
I found this book to be an engaging piece of fiction that I am happy to recommend.
I was provided with an ARC of "Don't Trust Me" By Netgalley of which I have reviewed voluntary.
All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm.
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
February 7, 2018
HA. No way I can give this anything less than 5* because whatever I thought I was going to get going into this book I actually got pretty much the opposite. Don’t Trust Me lives and dies on the back of it’s main protagonist Jessica (although we do get other points of view) and she is more than up to the job let me tell you. Witty and wise despite her mental health issues, realistically portrayed, this is cleverly plotted, extraordinarily engaging and yes even the mystery element gave me a run for my money.
Psychological thriller yes but with a difference and I kind of hope this is not the last we hear from Jessica.
The story is intriguing – Jess comes to work after a rather divisive holiday with her boyfriend to find the place deserted and shut down. He doesn’t believe she ever actually had a job and Jess starts to doubt herself but sets out to prove that it wasn’t all fantasy – in doing so she opens a whole can of worms and we are off on a twist fueled journey that is highly addictive, often ironically funny and genuinely riveting.
I love a main character you fall in love with and that’s what you get here – Jess is extremely clever underneath her slightly hectic outer personality and is intuitively aware of her own shortcomings, even as she is making bad decisions she understands the fundamental flaws in those decisions – as such she is really easy to follow along with, it is as much a journey of understanding for her as it is for the reader. Add into that an honestly unpredictable mystery element, a brilliantly eclectic supporting cast and a real sense of reality and there you have a winner.
I love the way Joss Stirling plays with your perceptions, not only of the people involved but of the actual events, you really are not sure where it’s all going to end up and the writing has an edgy, vibrant touch to it that just immerses you into Jessica’s world.
Overall I loved this. Can I hope for a sequel? Yes yes I can but either way Don’t Trust Me really is one of the best psychological thriller debut’s you’ll probably read in 2018 – put “Quirky” in front of “psych thriller” and go in with no expectations and I reckon you’ll love it.
Highly Recommended.
Psychological thriller yes but with a difference and I kind of hope this is not the last we hear from Jessica.
The story is intriguing – Jess comes to work after a rather divisive holiday with her boyfriend to find the place deserted and shut down. He doesn’t believe she ever actually had a job and Jess starts to doubt herself but sets out to prove that it wasn’t all fantasy – in doing so she opens a whole can of worms and we are off on a twist fueled journey that is highly addictive, often ironically funny and genuinely riveting.
I love a main character you fall in love with and that’s what you get here – Jess is extremely clever underneath her slightly hectic outer personality and is intuitively aware of her own shortcomings, even as she is making bad decisions she understands the fundamental flaws in those decisions – as such she is really easy to follow along with, it is as much a journey of understanding for her as it is for the reader. Add into that an honestly unpredictable mystery element, a brilliantly eclectic supporting cast and a real sense of reality and there you have a winner.
I love the way Joss Stirling plays with your perceptions, not only of the people involved but of the actual events, you really are not sure where it’s all going to end up and the writing has an edgy, vibrant touch to it that just immerses you into Jessica’s world.
Overall I loved this. Can I hope for a sequel? Yes yes I can but either way Don’t Trust Me really is one of the best psychological thriller debut’s you’ll probably read in 2018 – put “Quirky” in front of “psych thriller” and go in with no expectations and I reckon you’ll love it.
Highly Recommended.
February 10, 2018
Don't Trust Me twists and turns so many ways that you will not know which way you are going.
Jessica returns to work after a weeks holiday with her boyfriend of 5 years to discover that the locks have been changed and the business is gone. Not only that but there are people after her boss for money. This is the start of a downward spiral for Jessica. She suffers from adult ADHD and there are things in her past that she is not proud of. Michael is a criminologist and he is done with Jessica and what he believes are her delusions.
This books was jam packed with plot twists and unlikeable characters... great story that I read in one day.
Thanks to Harper Collins UK / Killer Reads and NetGalley for a copy of this book to read in exchange for my honest opinions
Jessica returns to work after a weeks holiday with her boyfriend of 5 years to discover that the locks have been changed and the business is gone. Not only that but there are people after her boss for money. This is the start of a downward spiral for Jessica. She suffers from adult ADHD and there are things in her past that she is not proud of. Michael is a criminologist and he is done with Jessica and what he believes are her delusions.
This books was jam packed with plot twists and unlikeable characters... great story that I read in one day.
Thanks to Harper Collins UK / Killer Reads and NetGalley for a copy of this book to read in exchange for my honest opinions
July 6, 2021
had already read the Jess Bridges series of books that followed this novel so was very familiar with the characters. These novels are a little bit different to others with plenty of humour and fun to go along with the murders and mayhem. Good entertaining read with fun characters and decent plots.
Jess Bridges is an off the wall character, her relationship with criminologist Michael is in decline and life is just about to get even worse. On arriving at work she discovers the company she is working for has disappeared off the globe. Jessica is very unpredictable made worse by her ADHD and Michael is convinced she is a fantasist. When his flat is burgled and precious belongings that remind him of his dead wife are stolen, Jess becomes his main suspect.
Jess needs to prove her innocence but her problems escalate when she discovers a dead body.
This is a cosy, fun mystery and an excellent debut novel with plenty of twists.
Jess Bridges is an off the wall character, her relationship with criminologist Michael is in decline and life is just about to get even worse. On arriving at work she discovers the company she is working for has disappeared off the globe. Jessica is very unpredictable made worse by her ADHD and Michael is convinced she is a fantasist. When his flat is burgled and precious belongings that remind him of his dead wife are stolen, Jess becomes his main suspect.
Jess needs to prove her innocence but her problems escalate when she discovers a dead body.
This is a cosy, fun mystery and an excellent debut novel with plenty of twists.
February 15, 2020
Strangely I actually really enjoyed this. Had I delved too closely before grabbing this title I probably wouldn’t have read it but there you go.
Jessica is a a bit a fruitcake. She has ADD and says and does inappropriate random things that can bring trouble knocking on her door. Like having an affair with a male student a few years ago, he was 18 but still... she is living with boyfriend Michael, a criminologist with a bit of a stick up his arse. It’s actually a threesome with the two of them and Michael’s dead, perfect wife Emma. Note: Emma is a central character in this story. They return from a week’s holiday and Jess tries to report for work as a part time researcher for a private investigator who looks for missing persons only the locks have been changed and a new tenant has moved into the space. Her boss, Jacob Wrath , is uncontactable but the landlord is chasing her for rent as her signature has been forged onto the lease. So far it doesn’t sound too great, I know. But Jess is really quite an engaging character, despite her fruitcake actions she was very likeable.
Anyway, things escalate when she is blamed for trashing Michael’s flat and he throws her out. He doesn’t even believe she was working for this Jacob as she is a bit of a fantasist. Then Jess finally tracks down Jacob under a different (real) name only he’s dead. Somehow Michael ends up being suspected of the murder. Jess, despite being over Michael doesn’t wish him any harm and sets out to prove his innocence.
It turns into a madcap adventure where no one knows what the heck is going on until finally Jessica’s amateurish detecting turns potentially deadly. This was a lot of fun, a zany comedic romp on the wild side that I enjoyed despite my misgivings.
Jessica is a a bit a fruitcake. She has ADD and says and does inappropriate random things that can bring trouble knocking on her door. Like having an affair with a male student a few years ago, he was 18 but still... she is living with boyfriend Michael, a criminologist with a bit of a stick up his arse. It’s actually a threesome with the two of them and Michael’s dead, perfect wife Emma. Note: Emma is a central character in this story. They return from a week’s holiday and Jess tries to report for work as a part time researcher for a private investigator who looks for missing persons only the locks have been changed and a new tenant has moved into the space. Her boss, Jacob Wrath , is uncontactable but the landlord is chasing her for rent as her signature has been forged onto the lease. So far it doesn’t sound too great, I know. But Jess is really quite an engaging character, despite her fruitcake actions she was very likeable.
Anyway, things escalate when she is blamed for trashing Michael’s flat and he throws her out. He doesn’t even believe she was working for this Jacob as she is a bit of a fantasist. Then Jess finally tracks down Jacob under a different (real) name only he’s dead. Somehow Michael ends up being suspected of the murder. Jess, despite being over Michael doesn’t wish him any harm and sets out to prove his innocence.
It turns into a madcap adventure where no one knows what the heck is going on until finally Jessica’s amateurish detecting turns potentially deadly. This was a lot of fun, a zany comedic romp on the wild side that I enjoyed despite my misgivings.
January 30, 2018
A crime thriller with a superbly intricate plot that slowly unravelled revealing little nuggets of information at a time to tease, lead off down a blind alley or add a clue to aid in resolving the crime. The story was so well thought out, that it wasn't until near the end that I was able to say who the real culprit was, having wrongly suspected a few others along the way.
Arriving at work one day, Jessica discovers the office she has been working at for the last couple of months has been cleared out, and there is no sign of her boss. Things haven't been going well in her personal life either, and when she tells her boyfriend Michael that her job has vanished she is met with derision, Michael believing that the whole thing was made up anyway. Then an incident at their home leads to their split, and Jessica sets out to prove her innocence and find her boss.
Jessica was such a well formed character, troubled, full of flaws and doing her best to just get by each day, no matter what. I loved her development as the story progressed, and especially the way her ADHD was portrayed. In fact, I enjoyed all the characters, even the rotten ones. The plot was believable with interesting twists and I take my hat off to Joss Stirling for her wonderful writing that had me captivated throughout. A thoroughly first class read!
*I received a copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Arriving at work one day, Jessica discovers the office she has been working at for the last couple of months has been cleared out, and there is no sign of her boss. Things haven't been going well in her personal life either, and when she tells her boyfriend Michael that her job has vanished she is met with derision, Michael believing that the whole thing was made up anyway. Then an incident at their home leads to their split, and Jessica sets out to prove her innocence and find her boss.
Jessica was such a well formed character, troubled, full of flaws and doing her best to just get by each day, no matter what. I loved her development as the story progressed, and especially the way her ADHD was portrayed. In fact, I enjoyed all the characters, even the rotten ones. The plot was believable with interesting twists and I take my hat off to Joss Stirling for her wonderful writing that had me captivated throughout. A thoroughly first class read!
*I received a copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 17, 2018
Thank you to Net Galley and Harper Impulse for providing me with an e-ARC copy! All opinions in this review are my own and are honest.
Finally, a thriller with an unreliable main character that I love! Normally in thrillers with unreliable MC, if und them unlikable because they’re whiney or they are just simply annoying and obviously hard to like but not here! Jessica has ADHD and often acts no impulse because of this; she says what she thinks, even if it could get her in trouble and make her actions reckless as she tends to also act without thinking but she’s also clever and humorous and we really get to see that in this book. I don’t have ADHD and I have no personal experience of ADHD so I can’t speak for the rep in this unfortunately. But Jess as a character was one I loved, and I really hope we see more of her somehow – she’s was so human and you can relate to her in so many ways which was great.
This follow Jess who comes back from holiday with her boyfriend, Michael, to discover that her workplace no longer exists and that she can’t get in contact with her boss either. This sends us down the path of Jess trying to figure what has happened with her work whilst trying to deal with her relationship and all the other things life is chucking at her. Like I said above, one of the best things about Jess was that she was relatable and flawed and her thought process was so well written you could follow along and understand. This was one of those stories where you didn’t necessarily know what to believe. As much as I liked Jess, I didn’t necessarily believe her all the time (which is obviously part of the build up!) but I did still find myself rooting for her.
This was mainly told from Jess’s POV however we do get one or two chapters later in the story from Michael’s POV. We also get some chapters which are old diary entries from Kate – Kate is Michael’s dead wife who died due to cancer but we don’t know much else about her as Michael hasn’t really spoken about her to Jess. We get to see the chapters as Jess reads them which I enjoyed because it meant that we were always in the dark as much as Jess was and can make conclusions based off what Jess knows and not much else.
Because this is a thriller I don’t want to say much else about the book in case I ruin it but I did love how the story played out and ended. It was very in keeping with recent discussions and a topic that doesn’t get brought up much but does happen and I liked how it all came together.
I would definitely recommend picking this up if you’re a fan of thrillers; it’s oh so very well written and is just a fantastic book!
Finally, a thriller with an unreliable main character that I love! Normally in thrillers with unreliable MC, if und them unlikable because they’re whiney or they are just simply annoying and obviously hard to like but not here! Jessica has ADHD and often acts no impulse because of this; she says what she thinks, even if it could get her in trouble and make her actions reckless as she tends to also act without thinking but she’s also clever and humorous and we really get to see that in this book. I don’t have ADHD and I have no personal experience of ADHD so I can’t speak for the rep in this unfortunately. But Jess as a character was one I loved, and I really hope we see more of her somehow – she’s was so human and you can relate to her in so many ways which was great.
This follow Jess who comes back from holiday with her boyfriend, Michael, to discover that her workplace no longer exists and that she can’t get in contact with her boss either. This sends us down the path of Jess trying to figure what has happened with her work whilst trying to deal with her relationship and all the other things life is chucking at her. Like I said above, one of the best things about Jess was that she was relatable and flawed and her thought process was so well written you could follow along and understand. This was one of those stories where you didn’t necessarily know what to believe. As much as I liked Jess, I didn’t necessarily believe her all the time (which is obviously part of the build up!) but I did still find myself rooting for her.
This was mainly told from Jess’s POV however we do get one or two chapters later in the story from Michael’s POV. We also get some chapters which are old diary entries from Kate – Kate is Michael’s dead wife who died due to cancer but we don’t know much else about her as Michael hasn’t really spoken about her to Jess. We get to see the chapters as Jess reads them which I enjoyed because it meant that we were always in the dark as much as Jess was and can make conclusions based off what Jess knows and not much else.
Because this is a thriller I don’t want to say much else about the book in case I ruin it but I did love how the story played out and ended. It was very in keeping with recent discussions and a topic that doesn’t get brought up much but does happen and I liked how it all came together.
I would definitely recommend picking this up if you’re a fan of thrillers; it’s oh so very well written and is just a fantastic book!
January 24, 2018
The cover illustration has a bright font for the title, and a darker background of a girl walking. It draws you in, with its mystery and simplicity. This will look good on a shelf, and easily found as it stand out.
The writing structure is good, broken up for easier reading, occasionally with a couple of excerpts from something relevant within the story, although this is clearly labelled, and recognisable. At times the writing seems chaotic, this seems to put across the ADHD mind, and it is described in an incredible way. It is rare that I read a story that really gets mental health properly, Joss has done it well. For comparison, "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" - has put across autism in a terrible way, having studied about it, and living with someone who is autistic (And ADHD for that matter), I was entirely disgusted with that book.
"Don't Trust Me" heavily focuses on the investigation, being a crime/thriller. I found the scenes in the story involving this, were done in such a way that it was believable, and relatable. I found myself struggling to work out who the culprit was, right the way through I had suspected each character at least once. As I have said previously, the chaotic mind of ADHD is reflected in the book extremely well, going off on tangents occasionally to emphasise this.
As for most likable character, I would personally say Jessica, she's the most relatable to me. The chaotic lifestyle, job, and past, there is something for everyone to empathise with at some point in their adult life.
This is Joss's first venture into the Adult Crime genre, before she has written a lot of YA Fiction, fantasy and dystopian worlds being a favourite. I have read her Savant series (Finding Sky, Stealing Phoenix, etc), Struck (Raven Stone series), Peril & Glow. In "Don't Trust Me" I saw a different writing style, aimed at a more adult audience, with adult themes and experiences (done tastefully).
The book flows well, capturing me at every turn, always something keeping interest. I struggled to put the book down, as is evident from when I started to when I finished reading it.
I highly recommend this book, it is well written and captivating, it keeps you guessing at every turn. I could envisage everything in my head, which is always a good sign of a good book. I definitely think Joss should continue writing more adult fiction, as she has done so well. I had shivers up my spine once I had finished!
I have given 5 stars because I truly couldn't put it down, the story flowed well, and was very relatable. I loved it.
The writing structure is good, broken up for easier reading, occasionally with a couple of excerpts from something relevant within the story, although this is clearly labelled, and recognisable. At times the writing seems chaotic, this seems to put across the ADHD mind, and it is described in an incredible way. It is rare that I read a story that really gets mental health properly, Joss has done it well. For comparison, "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" - has put across autism in a terrible way, having studied about it, and living with someone who is autistic (And ADHD for that matter), I was entirely disgusted with that book.
"Don't Trust Me" heavily focuses on the investigation, being a crime/thriller. I found the scenes in the story involving this, were done in such a way that it was believable, and relatable. I found myself struggling to work out who the culprit was, right the way through I had suspected each character at least once. As I have said previously, the chaotic mind of ADHD is reflected in the book extremely well, going off on tangents occasionally to emphasise this.
As for most likable character, I would personally say Jessica, she's the most relatable to me. The chaotic lifestyle, job, and past, there is something for everyone to empathise with at some point in their adult life.
This is Joss's first venture into the Adult Crime genre, before she has written a lot of YA Fiction, fantasy and dystopian worlds being a favourite. I have read her Savant series (Finding Sky, Stealing Phoenix, etc), Struck (Raven Stone series), Peril & Glow. In "Don't Trust Me" I saw a different writing style, aimed at a more adult audience, with adult themes and experiences (done tastefully).
The book flows well, capturing me at every turn, always something keeping interest. I struggled to put the book down, as is evident from when I started to when I finished reading it.
I highly recommend this book, it is well written and captivating, it keeps you guessing at every turn. I could envisage everything in my head, which is always a good sign of a good book. I definitely think Joss should continue writing more adult fiction, as she has done so well. I had shivers up my spine once I had finished!
I have given 5 stars because I truly couldn't put it down, the story flowed well, and was very relatable. I loved it.
July 7, 2019
I quite enjoyed that little trip. Lots of little surprises around each page and quite a large surprise at the end of the book. This is the first book I‘ve read by Joss Stirling, and I’m excited to read more from her. There was definitely a nice flow going on with the characters and I was really wondering about a few... but none of it really turned out like I thought it would. And I love those kind of books.
February 22, 2018
This book is packed full of twists and really kept me gripped throughout.
Jessica thinks she’s in love with Michael but when he acts unreasonably towards her, she decides enough is enough.
On top of the break up of her relationship, she goes into work and finds the office no longer there and her boss has disappeared.
Jessica starts to question everything she once knew and Michael makes her feel worse with his accusations.
The chapters are told from Jessica and Michael’s perspectives and you whilst you get an insight into their thoughts, it becomes evident that there’s more to this story than meets the eye.
The final few chapters will have you on the edge of your seat and make you desperate to find out the truth.
I can’t say too much more as I don’t want to spoil it for you.
Thanks to NetGalley and Killer Reads for the opportunity to read this book.
Jessica thinks she’s in love with Michael but when he acts unreasonably towards her, she decides enough is enough.
On top of the break up of her relationship, she goes into work and finds the office no longer there and her boss has disappeared.
Jessica starts to question everything she once knew and Michael makes her feel worse with his accusations.
The chapters are told from Jessica and Michael’s perspectives and you whilst you get an insight into their thoughts, it becomes evident that there’s more to this story than meets the eye.
The final few chapters will have you on the edge of your seat and make you desperate to find out the truth.
I can’t say too much more as I don’t want to spoil it for you.
Thanks to NetGalley and Killer Reads for the opportunity to read this book.
March 8, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed ‘Don’t Trust Me’ and found myself wanting to race through the book as quickly as possible to find out the truth.
Jessica is a potentially unreliable narrator. She suffers from ADHD and finds it hard to hold down a job. Her psychologist boyfriend, Michael, doesn’t seem to believe anything she says.
Is Jessica a total fantasist or is she telling the truth?
A totally gripping and enjoyable read.
Highly recommend.
Thanks to NetGalley for a Kindle copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Jessica is a potentially unreliable narrator. She suffers from ADHD and finds it hard to hold down a job. Her psychologist boyfriend, Michael, doesn’t seem to believe anything she says.
Is Jessica a total fantasist or is she telling the truth?
A totally gripping and enjoyable read.
Highly recommend.
Thanks to NetGalley for a Kindle copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 31, 2018
Very good
It took me a while to get into the story, but once I did I was hooked. I really wanted to see whether the story was actually real or the main character's imagination. Very cleverly done enjoyable read.
It took me a while to get into the story, but once I did I was hooked. I really wanted to see whether the story was actually real or the main character's imagination. Very cleverly done enjoyable read.
May 22, 2020
A clever and complicated story, but I found it a bit hard to read and confusing at times.
Not sure I really took to the main character.
Not sure I really took to the main character.
May 16, 2018
Don’t Trust Me - Debut Novel from Joss Stirling
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
I was sent this Book on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
For a first book, I thoroughly enjoyed this. It took a couple of chapters to get into, but the book was well written and I enjoyed my time reading itz
I did find that some of the expected twists and turns were just that, expected, however, having read many in this genre, i tend to find the same is true of many crime/thriller autjors debut books.
The storyline and plot were good, and I will happily read more from the Author. With the thought that went into the storyline, I can only imagine that this is an Author who will only get better with time.
Well worth picking up if you read Crume/Thriller!
#madeupgroup #aparentsviews #review #bookreview #bookworm #lovesbooks #reading #debutnovel #blog #blogger #blogging
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
I was sent this Book on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
For a first book, I thoroughly enjoyed this. It took a couple of chapters to get into, but the book was well written and I enjoyed my time reading itz
I did find that some of the expected twists and turns were just that, expected, however, having read many in this genre, i tend to find the same is true of many crime/thriller autjors debut books.
The storyline and plot were good, and I will happily read more from the Author. With the thought that went into the storyline, I can only imagine that this is an Author who will only get better with time.
Well worth picking up if you read Crume/Thriller!
#madeupgroup #aparentsviews #review #bookreview #bookworm #lovesbooks #reading #debutnovel #blog #blogger #blogging
February 19, 2018
I read a lot of this genre and, after a while, they get a bit samey and I yearn for something with a bit of spark. With this book, I not only got the spark I got a big BOOM too!
Jessica and partner Michael have just returned from holiday. It's clear from the start that their relationship is a tad strained, probably as much to do with Jessica's ADHD and other issues from her past as it is with Michael's treatment of her. As he leaves to work away again, she returns to her own job as an investigative assistant, but is shocked to find the office locks have been changed and all traces of the company gone, her boss allegedly having skipped off owing money that, through some duplicitous behaviour, she is now accountable for. Turning to Michael proves to be a mistake as, it turns out that he doesn't even believe that her job existed in the first place and that it is all fantasy on her part. This isn't helped when their home is broken into and things belonging to his ex-wife are stolen. Determined to get to the bottom of things Jessica then embarks on a bit of a wild ride as, together with her friend who she is staying with, she tries to piece together what is going on. And then she finds a body...
And that's all I'm saying here as the rest of it is so well plotted, it is important that the reader gets to learn things at the right time. Yes, I did spend quite a lot of the book clouded in mystery and confusion, but at just the right amount to be able to read through it and wait and trust that the author would come good in the end. Which she did, with great aplomb.
Jessica is one of the most complex characters I have met for a while and she was brilliantly portrayed, warts and all. She admits to certain character quirks herself that has her doubting her own actions half the time so it was also difficult for me as a reader to really understand what was real and what wasn't as the story progressed. This is aided by some really rather clever writing that kept me confused and intrigued all the way through. None of what happened subsequently felt contrived, rather it all came together really well at the end when the final truth all came out.
In fact, at the end of the book I was a little sad to have to say goodbye to certain characters in the book, especially Jessica herself. I felt that she has maybe more to give and would love to reconnect with her in future stories.
All in all, a perfectly plotted and paced book the held my attention nicely through and left me completely satisfied and indeed spent at the end. This is a new author for me and from taking a peek at her back catalogue, I see that she has a few series that I wouldn't mind checking out, tbr allowing.
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Jessica and partner Michael have just returned from holiday. It's clear from the start that their relationship is a tad strained, probably as much to do with Jessica's ADHD and other issues from her past as it is with Michael's treatment of her. As he leaves to work away again, she returns to her own job as an investigative assistant, but is shocked to find the office locks have been changed and all traces of the company gone, her boss allegedly having skipped off owing money that, through some duplicitous behaviour, she is now accountable for. Turning to Michael proves to be a mistake as, it turns out that he doesn't even believe that her job existed in the first place and that it is all fantasy on her part. This isn't helped when their home is broken into and things belonging to his ex-wife are stolen. Determined to get to the bottom of things Jessica then embarks on a bit of a wild ride as, together with her friend who she is staying with, she tries to piece together what is going on. And then she finds a body...
And that's all I'm saying here as the rest of it is so well plotted, it is important that the reader gets to learn things at the right time. Yes, I did spend quite a lot of the book clouded in mystery and confusion, but at just the right amount to be able to read through it and wait and trust that the author would come good in the end. Which she did, with great aplomb.
Jessica is one of the most complex characters I have met for a while and she was brilliantly portrayed, warts and all. She admits to certain character quirks herself that has her doubting her own actions half the time so it was also difficult for me as a reader to really understand what was real and what wasn't as the story progressed. This is aided by some really rather clever writing that kept me confused and intrigued all the way through. None of what happened subsequently felt contrived, rather it all came together really well at the end when the final truth all came out.
In fact, at the end of the book I was a little sad to have to say goodbye to certain characters in the book, especially Jessica herself. I felt that she has maybe more to give and would love to reconnect with her in future stories.
All in all, a perfectly plotted and paced book the held my attention nicely through and left me completely satisfied and indeed spent at the end. This is a new author for me and from taking a peek at her back catalogue, I see that she has a few series that I wouldn't mind checking out, tbr allowing.
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
March 23, 2018
Audio version
February 20, 2018
I was delighted to receive an ecopy of Don’t Trust Me to review prior to its release date from NetGalley. I’m a fan of Stirling’s savant series so I was eager to get stuck in.
I’m giving this book 3.5 stars. I found the beginning a little slow for me, not a lot seemed to be going on, but I have to admit I soon got hooked when things got juicer and I did enjoy reading it.
I’m going to get a couple of points- not strictly criticism- out the way first, because I do want to emphasise the good things about this book which are far more prominent than the negatives. I sincerely hope this review doesn’t come across as overly critical, but as I’ve had the honour of receiving the ebook early in exchange for a review, I want to make the review as useful to Stirling as possible.
I know it is an adult book but there were occasions where the swearing was just a bit unnecessary. In her phone call to the landlord, he effs at Jessica at least five times. I know in the real world people are rude, but I got the point after he said it twice. I feel it would have been more effective to say it just once or twice- when people swear too much it loses meaning to me. Maybe that was Stirling’s point? I’m not sure, but this is how I felt.
Then we have Jessica’s thoughts whilst on the phone: ‘I can swear perfectly well in private- f*ck it- see what I mean? But whereas other people seem to regard the f-word as an ordinary intensifier, I can’t use it. Not at all. Not even when it is literally what I’m doing. Especially not then.’ I just found this language once again a bit unnecessary. She could have just said she could swear well in private and left it at that. Maybe this is trying to capture Jessica’s impulsiveness? Either way this is only a minor thing and did not majorly affect my enjoyment of the book.
The one that got me the most was when she told Max to eff himself sideways. Don’t get me wrong, I was so pleased she finally threw that idiot out her life, but it just seemed a little immature. I guess this is Jessica growing in an odd sort of way- she said at the beginning that she couldn’t use the f-word and now she could, but still, it’s foul language so why use it at all? The follow up also reduced this triumph. She tells Max that she thinks she’s ‘effing beautiful’ in the pictures and to ‘eff the rent’. I’m so pleased that she saw it this way- that he exploited her, but the language just made her initial statement seem less effective and meaningful. She could have just said ‘f off’ and left it as that. The fewer uses I think would have made it a stronger, more powerful statement. The more times it is used, the less effective it becomes. I felt Jessica would have grown and she would have had a greater victory over Max if she hadn’t used the foul language that had initially been thrown at her down the phone in her triumph. It would make her seem way above Max- he disgustingly exploited her- and for her to have responded without the effing would have made her fantastic. I couldn’t help seeing Jessica as a little immature for this reason and it seemed to reduce her.
But moving on. Jessica is certainly a complex character! I never knew how she would respond to a situation which was a little frustrating but also kept me interested and on my toes. I was grumbling when she took away the bag that was police evidence. I had begun to accept her impulsiveness and then my respect for her grew when she handed the evidence back. I certainly felt a lot of sympathy for Jessica when I understood her situation. I saw that Michael was making her miserable so I thought, ‘Get the hell out’ and when I realised she couldn’t get away easily, I was rooting for her to get with Drew.
I enjoyed the development of Drew and how he had his own demons to deal with. He was a complex character in his own right. I liked the guerrilla gardening that he got up to and Stirling had me laughing out loud when I read Jessica’s quirky attempt at making conversation with Drew: ‘So, um, what brings you here? A couple of neglected hanging baskets that need filling on the sly?’ I like how Drew saw the good in Jessica and gave her a chance. He remained loyal and supported her which was what she needed to for the best in her to grow.
Michael was another intriguing character. I disliked him for how he formed his initial relationship with Jessica. He was decent enough to support her when they split though so that was something. I have to say, Stirling kept me guessing and there was a time when I suspected him of stealing Emma’s belongings to frame Jessica. I was a bit sad at the end though. I mean, he wasn’t great but that didn’t mean he deserved to possibly never walk again! But then, bad things do happen.
Lizzy. A girl with a serious grudge! Wow okay I never suspected her so that’s a well done to Stirling for that twist! The other good thing is that there are subtle signs when you look back at it so it’s not like a reader had no chance of working it out or that Stirling never gave any clues.
Other intriguing figures, like Jacob, the mysterious Emma, her absent daughter Kaitlin and the missing girls all made a great contribution to the story. I think this novel is a tribute to the thriller genre. It’s a tribute to Stirling really, how she manages to create so much action, complexity and curiosity from characters we never actually meet – the story concerns Jacob, Emma and Kaitlin and we never actually meet them, the closest we get is Emma’s diary.
A lot of characters creates an opportunity for a lot of scandal. This was an opportunity that Stirling did not miss. There was Emma getting pregnant with Jacob, Jacob creating links with Michael and the missing girls, Michael sleeping with Lizzy, Lizzy killing Jacob and turning on Michael and technically Jessica too, not to mention Max’s role, the list goes on.
The book was well written and well thought out. I sense a lot of research went into it, particularly on the legal and psychological side. I couldn’t point out any flaws in these areas but then I don’t know everything legal and psychological myself.
I liked the different POVs- the unknown narrator in the prologue (who we can later conclude is Lizzy), Jessica, Michael and then Emma’s diary. It was interesting to see Michael’s perspective on the events and I still thought he was more involved than his narrative let on. I also thought the diary was something different. It created suspense and I was waiting for Jessica to discover a big clue in the diary. I thought Jessica taking pictures of the diary and having a cracked phone so that she couldn’t read everything at once was a good device, a way to add snippets to the story slowly without giving all the clues away at once.
The story also gets points for originality, I haven’t come across anything quite like it before. I’ll conclude by saying it’s a good read for those who like thrillers.
I’m giving this book 3.5 stars. I found the beginning a little slow for me, not a lot seemed to be going on, but I have to admit I soon got hooked when things got juicer and I did enjoy reading it.
I’m going to get a couple of points- not strictly criticism- out the way first, because I do want to emphasise the good things about this book which are far more prominent than the negatives. I sincerely hope this review doesn’t come across as overly critical, but as I’ve had the honour of receiving the ebook early in exchange for a review, I want to make the review as useful to Stirling as possible.
I know it is an adult book but there were occasions where the swearing was just a bit unnecessary. In her phone call to the landlord, he effs at Jessica at least five times. I know in the real world people are rude, but I got the point after he said it twice. I feel it would have been more effective to say it just once or twice- when people swear too much it loses meaning to me. Maybe that was Stirling’s point? I’m not sure, but this is how I felt.
Then we have Jessica’s thoughts whilst on the phone: ‘I can swear perfectly well in private- f*ck it- see what I mean? But whereas other people seem to regard the f-word as an ordinary intensifier, I can’t use it. Not at all. Not even when it is literally what I’m doing. Especially not then.’ I just found this language once again a bit unnecessary. She could have just said she could swear well in private and left it at that. Maybe this is trying to capture Jessica’s impulsiveness? Either way this is only a minor thing and did not majorly affect my enjoyment of the book.
The one that got me the most was when she told Max to eff himself sideways. Don’t get me wrong, I was so pleased she finally threw that idiot out her life, but it just seemed a little immature. I guess this is Jessica growing in an odd sort of way- she said at the beginning that she couldn’t use the f-word and now she could, but still, it’s foul language so why use it at all? The follow up also reduced this triumph. She tells Max that she thinks she’s ‘effing beautiful’ in the pictures and to ‘eff the rent’. I’m so pleased that she saw it this way- that he exploited her, but the language just made her initial statement seem less effective and meaningful. She could have just said ‘f off’ and left it as that. The fewer uses I think would have made it a stronger, more powerful statement. The more times it is used, the less effective it becomes. I felt Jessica would have grown and she would have had a greater victory over Max if she hadn’t used the foul language that had initially been thrown at her down the phone in her triumph. It would make her seem way above Max- he disgustingly exploited her- and for her to have responded without the effing would have made her fantastic. I couldn’t help seeing Jessica as a little immature for this reason and it seemed to reduce her.
But moving on. Jessica is certainly a complex character! I never knew how she would respond to a situation which was a little frustrating but also kept me interested and on my toes. I was grumbling when she took away the bag that was police evidence. I had begun to accept her impulsiveness and then my respect for her grew when she handed the evidence back. I certainly felt a lot of sympathy for Jessica when I understood her situation. I saw that Michael was making her miserable so I thought, ‘Get the hell out’ and when I realised she couldn’t get away easily, I was rooting for her to get with Drew.
I enjoyed the development of Drew and how he had his own demons to deal with. He was a complex character in his own right. I liked the guerrilla gardening that he got up to and Stirling had me laughing out loud when I read Jessica’s quirky attempt at making conversation with Drew: ‘So, um, what brings you here? A couple of neglected hanging baskets that need filling on the sly?’ I like how Drew saw the good in Jessica and gave her a chance. He remained loyal and supported her which was what she needed to for the best in her to grow.
Michael was another intriguing character. I disliked him for how he formed his initial relationship with Jessica. He was decent enough to support her when they split though so that was something. I have to say, Stirling kept me guessing and there was a time when I suspected him of stealing Emma’s belongings to frame Jessica. I was a bit sad at the end though. I mean, he wasn’t great but that didn’t mean he deserved to possibly never walk again! But then, bad things do happen.
Lizzy. A girl with a serious grudge! Wow okay I never suspected her so that’s a well done to Stirling for that twist! The other good thing is that there are subtle signs when you look back at it so it’s not like a reader had no chance of working it out or that Stirling never gave any clues.
Other intriguing figures, like Jacob, the mysterious Emma, her absent daughter Kaitlin and the missing girls all made a great contribution to the story. I think this novel is a tribute to the thriller genre. It’s a tribute to Stirling really, how she manages to create so much action, complexity and curiosity from characters we never actually meet – the story concerns Jacob, Emma and Kaitlin and we never actually meet them, the closest we get is Emma’s diary.
A lot of characters creates an opportunity for a lot of scandal. This was an opportunity that Stirling did not miss. There was Emma getting pregnant with Jacob, Jacob creating links with Michael and the missing girls, Michael sleeping with Lizzy, Lizzy killing Jacob and turning on Michael and technically Jessica too, not to mention Max’s role, the list goes on.
The book was well written and well thought out. I sense a lot of research went into it, particularly on the legal and psychological side. I couldn’t point out any flaws in these areas but then I don’t know everything legal and psychological myself.
I liked the different POVs- the unknown narrator in the prologue (who we can later conclude is Lizzy), Jessica, Michael and then Emma’s diary. It was interesting to see Michael’s perspective on the events and I still thought he was more involved than his narrative let on. I also thought the diary was something different. It created suspense and I was waiting for Jessica to discover a big clue in the diary. I thought Jessica taking pictures of the diary and having a cracked phone so that she couldn’t read everything at once was a good device, a way to add snippets to the story slowly without giving all the clues away at once.
The story also gets points for originality, I haven’t come across anything quite like it before. I’ll conclude by saying it’s a good read for those who like thrillers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2018
A cleverly written psychological thriller, with a charismatic, if flawed protagonist who finds her life in turmoil when her boss and his business disappear without a trace when she returns from holiday.
There is a constant niggle at the back of your mind when you're reading the early chapters of this story as to whether the unfolding events are products of Jessica's troubled psyche. She is an unreliable protagonist, who abuses her prescription medication and has a naive attitude to sexual partners that threatens her career and self-esteem.
Despite her self-proclaimed flaws and lack of judgement, Jessica doesn't lack insight into her problems and therefore comes across as a believable witness as the story progresses.
Almost any of the characters could be the antagonist, and this gives the story a cosy mystery ambience at times. There are conspiracy theory elements and plenty of mysteries to solve before Jessica can vindicate herself and solve the puzzle that has become her life.
The only person who truly stands by her is Drew, a delightfully, quirky character who is often shocked by Jessica's exploits but always gives her the benefit of the doubt, emotional support that has been missing in her life to date.
The plot has plenty of twists and misinformation which keeps the reader guessing, I did work out most of the story about halfway through, but this didn't spoil the story for me. However, I do feel that the antagonist is revealed sooner than necessary, making the ending more of an action thriller and losing some of its psychological impacts.
'Don't Trust Me', is an eminently, readable thriller that will hold your interest right to the last page.
I received a copy of this book from Killer Reads via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
There is a constant niggle at the back of your mind when you're reading the early chapters of this story as to whether the unfolding events are products of Jessica's troubled psyche. She is an unreliable protagonist, who abuses her prescription medication and has a naive attitude to sexual partners that threatens her career and self-esteem.
Despite her self-proclaimed flaws and lack of judgement, Jessica doesn't lack insight into her problems and therefore comes across as a believable witness as the story progresses.
Almost any of the characters could be the antagonist, and this gives the story a cosy mystery ambience at times. There are conspiracy theory elements and plenty of mysteries to solve before Jessica can vindicate herself and solve the puzzle that has become her life.
The only person who truly stands by her is Drew, a delightfully, quirky character who is often shocked by Jessica's exploits but always gives her the benefit of the doubt, emotional support that has been missing in her life to date.
The plot has plenty of twists and misinformation which keeps the reader guessing, I did work out most of the story about halfway through, but this didn't spoil the story for me. However, I do feel that the antagonist is revealed sooner than necessary, making the ending more of an action thriller and losing some of its psychological impacts.
'Don't Trust Me', is an eminently, readable thriller that will hold your interest right to the last page.
I received a copy of this book from Killer Reads via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
March 4, 2021
I wasn’t sure about this book when I first picked it up, having been so used to Joss writing for a younger audience. And I must admit the beginning felt a little too descriptive for adult novel, but a few chapters in and the flow eases and settles and completely grips you. This psychological thriller seriously gripped me from the outset - at first it was why the hell has Jessica’s boss disappeared. From then on it was a battle of me comparing facts all the way through to the end to try and work out the truth. Was Jessica hallucinating? Had Jacob set it all up? Was Drew actually the one pulling the strings? Or was Michael in fact behind it all? I’m not going to give anything away but I was drawn into the story like no other trying to be Detective Rachel myself, not bothering to wait until the end to find out, I found myself rereading over parts trying to piece it all together. I was obsessed with trying to beat Joss and working it out. All I can say is this is a masterpiece and a hook and I congratulate Joss on her first Adult novel. For someone who grew up with your young adult fiction I am delighted that I now have more to read as I become an adult. Highly recommend this book if you feel up to the challenge of stopping yourself from reading within a night. I would, however, urge caution to readers under 18 who love Joss that this is not at all like her previous books and takes on some strong adult themes.
*Reviewed by a Bound Manuscript from Harper Collins
*Reviewed by a Bound Manuscript from Harper Collins
February 23, 2018
I received this book with anticipation, having read Joss Stirling’s young adult books, I was excited to know that as I have gotten older, her writing style has too, allowing me to continue reading her books.
Initially, I found the storyline confusing, there was a lot going on, with little explanation, however, as you read along, more pieces were unravelled for the reader and slowly more and more made sense.
The story begins with Jessica, out of a ‘proper’ job, working for someone her boyfriend thinks she has made up. The story continues with her discovering a body, her boyfriend being arrested and her weaving her way through the truth to discover how the past had caught up and was now dictating the future.
It took a while to fully understand each character’s background, though I understand the need for mystery, some aspects like why Jessica left her first job could’ve been explained earlier as well as Michael’s job, to fully imagine each character to a while as these details were told later in the book.
Psychology was the theme used throughout, which was great. The amount research which would’ve been needed is amazing and having psychology mentioned and related to through kept an anchor in the book, for when the twists become too confusing, there was always something you could count on. The degree of knowledge Joss Stirling must have taken is commendable.
This book is a definite read, a wonderful thriller keeping you on the edge of your seat till the very end.
Initially, I found the storyline confusing, there was a lot going on, with little explanation, however, as you read along, more pieces were unravelled for the reader and slowly more and more made sense.
The story begins with Jessica, out of a ‘proper’ job, working for someone her boyfriend thinks she has made up. The story continues with her discovering a body, her boyfriend being arrested and her weaving her way through the truth to discover how the past had caught up and was now dictating the future.
It took a while to fully understand each character’s background, though I understand the need for mystery, some aspects like why Jessica left her first job could’ve been explained earlier as well as Michael’s job, to fully imagine each character to a while as these details were told later in the book.
Psychology was the theme used throughout, which was great. The amount research which would’ve been needed is amazing and having psychology mentioned and related to through kept an anchor in the book, for when the twists become too confusing, there was always something you could count on. The degree of knowledge Joss Stirling must have taken is commendable.
This book is a definite read, a wonderful thriller keeping you on the edge of your seat till the very end.
March 2, 2018
Don't trust me is a psychological thriller that was a page turning read with a difference.
Jessica is the main character in this book, I took to her straightaway and although she does do things throughout the book that sometimes made me think 'why!!??' I did on the whole like her.
Jessica has returned from a holiday with her partner, Michael, who I disliked instantly. You can tell from the start that this a relationship that has run its course with the main areas being Jessicas ADHD and the general way Michael talks and treats Jessica. The book has plenty of twists and turns starting with Jessicas job that she has held for three months and after her holiday goes to but finds the locks have been changed and it is totally empty to coming home and Michael finding some of his deceased wife belongings having been taken and blames Jessica for it. I'm not going to spoil this read for you in anyway so am not going to reveal anything but all I can say is you have to read this. I read a lot of psychological thrillers as this is the genre I love the most but when you read a lot you find they all start to become a little similar but not this this has a different plot line altogether and a cracking end.
I would like to thank Netgalley and HarperColllins UK, Killer Reads for this ARC I was sent in exchange for an honest review.
Jessica is the main character in this book, I took to her straightaway and although she does do things throughout the book that sometimes made me think 'why!!??' I did on the whole like her.
Jessica has returned from a holiday with her partner, Michael, who I disliked instantly. You can tell from the start that this a relationship that has run its course with the main areas being Jessicas ADHD and the general way Michael talks and treats Jessica. The book has plenty of twists and turns starting with Jessicas job that she has held for three months and after her holiday goes to but finds the locks have been changed and it is totally empty to coming home and Michael finding some of his deceased wife belongings having been taken and blames Jessica for it. I'm not going to spoil this read for you in anyway so am not going to reveal anything but all I can say is you have to read this. I read a lot of psychological thrillers as this is the genre I love the most but when you read a lot you find they all start to become a little similar but not this this has a different plot line altogether and a cracking end.
I would like to thank Netgalley and HarperColllins UK, Killer Reads for this ARC I was sent in exchange for an honest review.
March 27, 2018
A dark and twisty suspense novel that’ll keep you guessing until the very end as you try and work out what exactly has happened! Jessica is a really interesting character, she’s very realistic and her personality shines through and furthers the plot along as she tries to figure out why her place of Work vanished and who burgled her ex boyfriend... it’s full of mystery and intrigue and so addictive you’ll definitely want to read it in one go!
More please!
Thank you to Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
More please!
Thank you to Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
February 7, 2018
Don't trust me is part of a new genre for me, I hadn't previously read an adult psychological thriller however definitely will after reading this one.
Joss Stirling has crafted a brilliant story in Don't trust me providing just enough clues throughout to keep you guessing the outcome until the end. The book revolves around Jessica, who's relationship is crumbling and her boss and job have both disappeared. Jessica is the prime suspect in the burglary of her partner Michael's house who is at the end of his tether with her erratic behaviour caused by ADHD. Jessica is trying to prove her innocence in the face of previous wrongdoings and after finding a body things become even more complicated.
Don't trust me tackles many important issues such as mental health and missing persons, intertwining the stories of different individuals and timelines, highlighting the complexity of police investigations. The book is written with excellent knowledge of the judicial system and allows you to engage fully. Written from several points of view the story is revealed through diaries, emails as well as the character perspectives.
I would highly recommend Don't trust me, even if it is your first foray into Adult psychological thrillers too!
Joss Stirling has crafted a brilliant story in Don't trust me providing just enough clues throughout to keep you guessing the outcome until the end. The book revolves around Jessica, who's relationship is crumbling and her boss and job have both disappeared. Jessica is the prime suspect in the burglary of her partner Michael's house who is at the end of his tether with her erratic behaviour caused by ADHD. Jessica is trying to prove her innocence in the face of previous wrongdoings and after finding a body things become even more complicated.
Don't trust me tackles many important issues such as mental health and missing persons, intertwining the stories of different individuals and timelines, highlighting the complexity of police investigations. The book is written with excellent knowledge of the judicial system and allows you to engage fully. Written from several points of view the story is revealed through diaries, emails as well as the character perspectives.
I would highly recommend Don't trust me, even if it is your first foray into Adult psychological thrillers too!
January 25, 2018
Joss Stirling has done it again. What a gripping read!
Considering this isn’t JS usual style and audience I think she managed the transition perfectly.
From a reader who loved her previous series of Savant books, I can honestly say I loved Don’t Trust Me.
The cover art is very attracting. On a shelf it is definitely going to catch my eye.
For a crime/thriller I was left guessing and pointing the finger the whole way through. Only towards the end did I start putting the puzzle together the same as the lead character Jessica.
JS did a brilliant job and some great research into portraying mental health in words so well. The way the chapters flow helped with placing myself in the mind of the main character.
There are some topical references placed throughout that I felt slotted in perfectly. They didn’t feel forced or thrown in just because.
I would very much look forward to other similar stories from Joss Stirling.
A must read for sure. Even for those not heavily into crime/thrillers I would say give it a try.
Considering this isn’t JS usual style and audience I think she managed the transition perfectly.
From a reader who loved her previous series of Savant books, I can honestly say I loved Don’t Trust Me.
The cover art is very attracting. On a shelf it is definitely going to catch my eye.
For a crime/thriller I was left guessing and pointing the finger the whole way through. Only towards the end did I start putting the puzzle together the same as the lead character Jessica.
JS did a brilliant job and some great research into portraying mental health in words so well. The way the chapters flow helped with placing myself in the mind of the main character.
There are some topical references placed throughout that I felt slotted in perfectly. They didn’t feel forced or thrown in just because.
I would very much look forward to other similar stories from Joss Stirling.
A must read for sure. Even for those not heavily into crime/thrillers I would say give it a try.
February 7, 2018
I loved this book, Jess was a totally endearing, scary and perfectly flawed leading lady. I loved the humanity of her and even as she feels she's approached her own personal conclusions she then (as humans tend to do) still questions her own inner strengths and self belief. The story kept me gripped and although I did guess the twist at the end it was not blindingly obvious and I did second guess my own theory a few times. Overall huge thumbs up from me, for a really well written book with likeable and equally dislikable characters throughout. #teamdrew
August 21, 2025
My first non freida thriller and I enjoyed it !
August 1, 2018
Although ‘Don’t Trust Me’ is indeed a psychological thriller, there are also many aspects of the story that equally lend themselves to a mystery or a whodunit.
Right at the very beginning, the prologue poses three questions. Who is the unknown murder victim? Who is the killer? What was the reason for the murder? While the reader is left pondering the answers, the story then embarks on a series of complex events – past and present. As for the psychological element, its introduction to the novel – as the protagonist begins to doubt her own credibility – is a useful tool to help build suspense and tension. The result is a gripping and compelling story.
Jessica Bridges is a young woman who suffers from adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The side effects of this affliction are a lack of focus and impulsive behaviour, which had previously lead Jessica to commit an indiscretion at the school where she worked as a teacher. Suffering from a bout of depression and the loss of her job, she eventually finds employment as a research assistant for Jacob Wrath, a private investigator who specialises in missing persons.
However, the job is not what it seems and when her new boss suddenly disappears himself, Jessica soon finds herself held responsible for the trail of devastation he leaves behind … including a murder, for which she is initially a suspect. When her boyfriend Michael – an eminent criminologist, who is still in love with his dead wife, Emma – is also implicated, Jessica cannot help wondering if she is somehow to blame after all.
‘Don’t Trust Me’ has a clever plotline that requires concentration from the reader, especially as it alternates from present to past throughout the story. As the action progresses, a rich and diverse cast of characters enter at various stages along the way, who either assist Jessica in her search for the truth or present her with more distractions. Her ADHD is also a major hindrance, as she cannot help taking unnecessary risks. Inevitably, this will at times make the reader feel like screaming: “For heaven’s sake, Jessica. Don’t do it”.
Throughout the novel, the action is interspersed by extracts from Emma’s diary, which Jessica copied in order to find out more about her. With each entry she reads, Jessica begins to discover more about not only Michael but also her boss, Jacob, until finally the pieces of the mystery start to fit together to reveal the truth.
I have to admit, when I started to read this novel I was not sure if I liked Jessica or not, particularly as she seemed to be perpetually at odds with everyone … including her family. However, as the story unfolded, and I began to understand why she behaved the way she did, I was totally on her side. Unfortunately, some of the other characters are far less worthy of empathy. Indeed, one of the most intriguing aspects of this novel is the way characters constantly confound initial impressions as their true motives and personalities are revealed.
‘Don’t Trust Me’ is definitely a recommended read … and the ending will certainly come as a surprise.
Right at the very beginning, the prologue poses three questions. Who is the unknown murder victim? Who is the killer? What was the reason for the murder? While the reader is left pondering the answers, the story then embarks on a series of complex events – past and present. As for the psychological element, its introduction to the novel – as the protagonist begins to doubt her own credibility – is a useful tool to help build suspense and tension. The result is a gripping and compelling story.
Jessica Bridges is a young woman who suffers from adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The side effects of this affliction are a lack of focus and impulsive behaviour, which had previously lead Jessica to commit an indiscretion at the school where she worked as a teacher. Suffering from a bout of depression and the loss of her job, she eventually finds employment as a research assistant for Jacob Wrath, a private investigator who specialises in missing persons.
However, the job is not what it seems and when her new boss suddenly disappears himself, Jessica soon finds herself held responsible for the trail of devastation he leaves behind … including a murder, for which she is initially a suspect. When her boyfriend Michael – an eminent criminologist, who is still in love with his dead wife, Emma – is also implicated, Jessica cannot help wondering if she is somehow to blame after all.
‘Don’t Trust Me’ has a clever plotline that requires concentration from the reader, especially as it alternates from present to past throughout the story. As the action progresses, a rich and diverse cast of characters enter at various stages along the way, who either assist Jessica in her search for the truth or present her with more distractions. Her ADHD is also a major hindrance, as she cannot help taking unnecessary risks. Inevitably, this will at times make the reader feel like screaming: “For heaven’s sake, Jessica. Don’t do it”.
Throughout the novel, the action is interspersed by extracts from Emma’s diary, which Jessica copied in order to find out more about her. With each entry she reads, Jessica begins to discover more about not only Michael but also her boss, Jacob, until finally the pieces of the mystery start to fit together to reveal the truth.
I have to admit, when I started to read this novel I was not sure if I liked Jessica or not, particularly as she seemed to be perpetually at odds with everyone … including her family. However, as the story unfolded, and I began to understand why she behaved the way she did, I was totally on her side. Unfortunately, some of the other characters are far less worthy of empathy. Indeed, one of the most intriguing aspects of this novel is the way characters constantly confound initial impressions as their true motives and personalities are revealed.
‘Don’t Trust Me’ is definitely a recommended read … and the ending will certainly come as a surprise.
May 2, 2020
0 effing stars!!!! What the hell was that seriously???!!! First of all we got all the feminism crap again and again and again!! I mean you let women do their own choices and then whine about it and then the men who are actually in their fucked up prespectives enemies help them!! And omg that jessica shes an asshole at the end of the book im supposed to belive she’s kind a perfect caring beautiful after 1) dancing in a strip club as a dare 2) having sex with someone claiming she doesnt have a choice which at the end of the book did the thing she could have done at the beginning of the book by lawyering up 3) has sex with an 18 year old student because he made her full good because michael was unreasonable in thinking shes trash go figure!! 4) actually lying to that weird man drew about having that sex and actually consimate their relationship without telling him and last but not lease the last scene of the book where drew learnt about that sex and actually okay with it doesn’t ask any questions and just gives the a guy a punch and thats it and shes saying you’re going to get laiiid whatt the hellllll!!!??? How is that drew wired and the writer making michael so weak at the end about asking jessica back??? U just ruined his whole character. Unbelievable the worst book i ever read EVER!! I thought ruth ware was the worst but conragts to joss stirling u earned the top spot!!! And emma given the choice to have the baby why not abort?! I think feminists will be so angry with her she would have saved us from this heap of trash that is called a book and classic feminism shit is to get rid of the father and say he’s crazy!! Yeah sure! All that because u see him as a cop undercover not a woman that actually likes the man and that friend lizzy going to all that hassle for what really the kid. I like when u try feminism in a book and just cant get the right things and then end up with the same conclusion, women are crazy!👋🏻
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