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Half The Lies You Tell Are True
An unsettling, dark psychological thriller from the author of Ice Cold Alice.
In a world where internet rumour becomes real-world fact, do we ever really know anyone?
High school teacher Dougie Black is brutally attacked in school. Stabbed in front of his class by a pupil with no apparent motive, Dougie fights for his life in ICU whilst DS Lewis Gilmour attempts to unravel the events leading up to the attack.
As the doctors struggle to save Dougie’s life, social media is rife with rumours about his private life. Mr Black’s friends and family begin to question everything they thought they knew about him.
Who is Dougie Black? Why did a child attempt to murder him? How did so many years of lies lead to an horrific moment of violence?
Half The Lies You Tell Are True, is a dark glimpse at what social media has done to our integrity and our perception of each other. Perfect for fans of Black Mirror and Gone Girl.
In a world where internet rumour becomes real-world fact, do we ever really know anyone?
High school teacher Dougie Black is brutally attacked in school. Stabbed in front of his class by a pupil with no apparent motive, Dougie fights for his life in ICU whilst DS Lewis Gilmour attempts to unravel the events leading up to the attack.
As the doctors struggle to save Dougie’s life, social media is rife with rumours about his private life. Mr Black’s friends and family begin to question everything they thought they knew about him.
Who is Dougie Black? Why did a child attempt to murder him? How did so many years of lies lead to an horrific moment of violence?
Half The Lies You Tell Are True, is a dark glimpse at what social media has done to our integrity and our perception of each other. Perfect for fans of Black Mirror and Gone Girl.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 25, 2018
283 people are currently reading
279 people want to read
About the author
C.P. Wilson
3 books80 followersPseudonym for Amazon best-selling Mark Wilson. C.P. Wilson writes psychological thrillers.
Mark Wilson is the Amazon-bestselling author of ten works of fiction and one non-fiction memoir. He also writes Crime Thrillers under the pseudonym, C.P. Wilson
Mark's short story Glass Ceiling won first prize in May, 2015 on Spinetingler's Short story competition and will be included in Ryan Bracha's Twelve Nights at Table Six. dEaDINBURGH reached the quarter finals of the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award in 2014 and is a finalist in the Wishing Shelf Book Awards, 2015.
Mark's works include:
Coming of Age - Bobby's Boy.
Psychological Thriller (Novella) - Head Boy.
International Thriller - Naebody's Hero .
Horror novels - dEaDINBURGH: Vantage, dEaDINBURGH: Alliances, dEaDINBURGH: Origins, dEaDINBURGH: Hunted
Satire: On The Seventh Day
Psychological Satire: Wake Up And Smell The Coffin
Autobiography - Paddy's Daddy
As C.P. Wilson:
Psychological Thriller - Ice Cold Alice (Tequila Mockingbird 1) (Bloodhound Books)
Medical Thriller - The Only Truth That Sticks
Psychological Thriller - half the Lies You Tell Are true
Mark's acclaimed Lanarkshire Strays series are standalone novels and feature Mark's home county. Lanarkshire Strays is also available as an omnibus edition.
His novels have been well received and feature Scottish characters and locations.
Mark has several other stories in progress:
Tequila Mockingbird book 2
The Headnet - Sci-Fi Dystopic Nightmare
AMSTERDAMned - Horror
Vesalius - Historical Fiction
Mark currently teaches Biology in a Fife secondary school and is founder of Paddy's Daddy Publishing, a company he set up to assist Scottish authors. He writes in his spare time, in lieu of sleep.
You can visit Mark at markwilsonbooks.com or facebook.com/markwilsonbooks
You can also connect with Mark on twitter: @bellshillwilson
Mark Wilson is the Amazon-bestselling author of ten works of fiction and one non-fiction memoir. He also writes Crime Thrillers under the pseudonym, C.P. Wilson
Mark's short story Glass Ceiling won first prize in May, 2015 on Spinetingler's Short story competition and will be included in Ryan Bracha's Twelve Nights at Table Six. dEaDINBURGH reached the quarter finals of the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award in 2014 and is a finalist in the Wishing Shelf Book Awards, 2015.
Mark's works include:
Coming of Age - Bobby's Boy.
Psychological Thriller (Novella) - Head Boy.
International Thriller - Naebody's Hero .
Horror novels - dEaDINBURGH: Vantage, dEaDINBURGH: Alliances, dEaDINBURGH: Origins, dEaDINBURGH: Hunted
Satire: On The Seventh Day
Psychological Satire: Wake Up And Smell The Coffin
Autobiography - Paddy's Daddy
As C.P. Wilson:
Psychological Thriller - Ice Cold Alice (Tequila Mockingbird 1) (Bloodhound Books)
Medical Thriller - The Only Truth That Sticks
Psychological Thriller - half the Lies You Tell Are true
Mark's acclaimed Lanarkshire Strays series are standalone novels and feature Mark's home county. Lanarkshire Strays is also available as an omnibus edition.
His novels have been well received and feature Scottish characters and locations.
Mark has several other stories in progress:
Tequila Mockingbird book 2
The Headnet - Sci-Fi Dystopic Nightmare
AMSTERDAMned - Horror
Vesalius - Historical Fiction
Mark currently teaches Biology in a Fife secondary school and is founder of Paddy's Daddy Publishing, a company he set up to assist Scottish authors. He writes in his spare time, in lieu of sleep.
You can visit Mark at markwilsonbooks.com or facebook.com/markwilsonbooks
You can also connect with Mark on twitter: @bellshillwilson
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
August 2, 2018
* Thank you to author C.P. Wilson and Paddy's Daddy publishing for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
The impact of this book is both instant and shocking. 'Half The Lies You Tell Are True' begins with a knife attack on 64 year old High School Biology teacher Dougie Black, by 16 year old student Harry Jardine, and it's particularly bloody, brutal and frenzied.
Along with many of the students, fellow teacher Francesca (Frankie) Malone witnessed the attack. Ten years ago when Frankie was a fledgling teacher, unable to come to terms with her responsibilities, it was Dougie who became her mentor and friend, and helped her become the respected teacher she is today.
In the hours following the attack, Frankie maintains a vigil at Dougie's bedside, and as her brain tries to process the events of the day, her memories of the last ten years begin to overtake the present, as Dougie battles for life.
Before the day is out, (as is the case these days), rumours are circulating on social media accusing Dougie Black of inappropriate conduct towards his students - none of which are based on fact - with the rumour mongers forming opinions without ever having met him, let alone have any knowledge of his background or personality, but Frankie begins to feel the stirrings of suspicion and uncertainty, and reluctantly starts to harbour doubts about whether Dougie really is the kind, funny and caring man she always thought he was.
Part two of the book allows us to gain intimate knowledge of both Dougie and Harry, a chance to explore their innermost thoughts, and you'd have to have a heart of stone not to feel empathy with the both of them. Dougie has to deal with his wife Mary's advanced dementia, feeling alone and unable to reconcile with the stranger that she has become. However, that's not all that Dougie has to contend with, life hasn't been particularly kind to him.
Harry meanwhile lost his father at a very young age, and then had to endure his mother's drinking and disregard for him. He also suffers his stepfather's physical and emotional cruelty. Then there's his problems at school, not least that he's the victim of online bullying, a pack of lies aimed at discrediting him, and set up by Jenna, someone he'd once considered his best friend.
The narrative in 'Half The Lies You Tell Are True' is so current it could have been snatched from news headlines almost anywhere around the world. Initially I thought I knew exactly which way this was headed, but I was wrong. As the protagonists personal lives are revealed, we discover exactly what lead the fates to collide on this catastrophic day. I'm glad the direction it took wasn't as cut and dried as it appeared, as the storyline was all the better for it, and by the way, there was a scene towards the end that was so moving, so beautifully written that it left me emotionally drained, and I guess that's the sign of a gifted writer. Highly recommended!
The impact of this book is both instant and shocking. 'Half The Lies You Tell Are True' begins with a knife attack on 64 year old High School Biology teacher Dougie Black, by 16 year old student Harry Jardine, and it's particularly bloody, brutal and frenzied.
Along with many of the students, fellow teacher Francesca (Frankie) Malone witnessed the attack. Ten years ago when Frankie was a fledgling teacher, unable to come to terms with her responsibilities, it was Dougie who became her mentor and friend, and helped her become the respected teacher she is today.
In the hours following the attack, Frankie maintains a vigil at Dougie's bedside, and as her brain tries to process the events of the day, her memories of the last ten years begin to overtake the present, as Dougie battles for life.
Before the day is out, (as is the case these days), rumours are circulating on social media accusing Dougie Black of inappropriate conduct towards his students - none of which are based on fact - with the rumour mongers forming opinions without ever having met him, let alone have any knowledge of his background or personality, but Frankie begins to feel the stirrings of suspicion and uncertainty, and reluctantly starts to harbour doubts about whether Dougie really is the kind, funny and caring man she always thought he was.
Part two of the book allows us to gain intimate knowledge of both Dougie and Harry, a chance to explore their innermost thoughts, and you'd have to have a heart of stone not to feel empathy with the both of them. Dougie has to deal with his wife Mary's advanced dementia, feeling alone and unable to reconcile with the stranger that she has become. However, that's not all that Dougie has to contend with, life hasn't been particularly kind to him.
Harry meanwhile lost his father at a very young age, and then had to endure his mother's drinking and disregard for him. He also suffers his stepfather's physical and emotional cruelty. Then there's his problems at school, not least that he's the victim of online bullying, a pack of lies aimed at discrediting him, and set up by Jenna, someone he'd once considered his best friend.
The narrative in 'Half The Lies You Tell Are True' is so current it could have been snatched from news headlines almost anywhere around the world. Initially I thought I knew exactly which way this was headed, but I was wrong. As the protagonists personal lives are revealed, we discover exactly what lead the fates to collide on this catastrophic day. I'm glad the direction it took wasn't as cut and dried as it appeared, as the storyline was all the better for it, and by the way, there was a scene towards the end that was so moving, so beautifully written that it left me emotionally drained, and I guess that's the sign of a gifted writer. Highly recommended!
August 20, 2018
Wow, what an opening scene! I only had chance to read the first two chapters before bed on the first night, and couldn't get the image out of my head once I closed my eyes!
Half The Lies You Tell Are True is a shocking, thought provoking and very current dark psychological thriller. What’s covered in this book is happening in our world right now, and it’s not pretty. Bullying, cyberbullying, murder, hurtful online rumours and fake news. It does make me question whether technology brings out the worst in human nature.
This novel felt so emotionally charged. I connected on an emotional level with all the main characters in this book. I experienced their pain, fear, horror, regret and life struggles as they went through them. Yet I was forced to watch from the sidelines as a harrowing domino effect took place right before my eyes. I felt sick to my stomach. I desperately wanted to undo what had been written. It was heart wrenching how everything can change in one short moment because of one wrong decision, driven by the acts of others. I actually had tears in my eyes at the very end, and have been left feeling haunted by this book.
This is a cracking read, and one I very highly recommend. I need to check out what else this author has written.
I borrowed this through Amazon Kindle Unlimited.
Half The Lies You Tell Are True is a shocking, thought provoking and very current dark psychological thriller. What’s covered in this book is happening in our world right now, and it’s not pretty. Bullying, cyberbullying, murder, hurtful online rumours and fake news. It does make me question whether technology brings out the worst in human nature.
This novel felt so emotionally charged. I connected on an emotional level with all the main characters in this book. I experienced their pain, fear, horror, regret and life struggles as they went through them. Yet I was forced to watch from the sidelines as a harrowing domino effect took place right before my eyes. I felt sick to my stomach. I desperately wanted to undo what had been written. It was heart wrenching how everything can change in one short moment because of one wrong decision, driven by the acts of others. I actually had tears in my eyes at the very end, and have been left feeling haunted by this book.
This is a cracking read, and one I very highly recommend. I need to check out what else this author has written.
I borrowed this through Amazon Kindle Unlimited.
May 17, 2018
High School Biology Teacher Dougie Black is stabbed in a brutal attack by one of his students, apparently for no reason. He's rushed to the hospital where the fight for his life will begin.
Because the attacker is a minor, his name is kept from the press. The news that leaks out starts with very little info.. and then steadily builds into a question of why this particular teacher was attacked. Evidently, the teacher must have done something...right?
As social media and news media explode with theories, especially from the teenagers at the school, the investigation begins headed by DS Lewis Gilmore. The questions they ask lead Mr. Black's friends and colleagues to wonder about the private life of the man they thought they knew.
Who is Dougie Black? Why did a child attempt to murder him? How did so many years of lies lead to an horrific moment of violence? What really happened in the school room that day?
What a story!
Part 1 tells of the current day. It's followed by news reports and tweets and posts on social media. It starts with wonderment, then followed by ... I heard that he ... he must have done something to deserve that .... What follows is the police investigation, when the cops start asking the hard questions .. has Mr Black ever touched a student inappropriately? Another staff member?
Part 2 delves into the private lives of Mr. Black, the boy who stabbed him, and the students who knew the boy best.
The book is extremely well written. The author's writing gives us a dark glimpse at what social media has done to our integrity and our perception of each other. In the day and age of 'fake media' this is the perfect example of what we see and hear every day. Th author combines complex emotions with cruelty and gruesome scenes.
Besides the media, there are elements of bullying, both at home and school. Domestic violence plays a part in all this. Jealousy among teenagers who can't control their emotions. And parents who don't seem to know or care what's going on in their children's lives.
The questioning of the students who witnessed the crime was interesting to watch. Most of their stories were identical ... were they rehearsed? or truth?
All in all, an exceptional story!
Many thanks to the author who provided a digital copy of this dark psychological thriller. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
June 10, 2018
EXCERPT: Landing on his side, parallel to his bleeding teacher, Harry's head twitches to his left. From Frankie's perspective it looks like an involuntary act,the action of a person waking to a nightmare. Both hands pressed to the door frame, Frankie can feel the change happen. Harry comes to his knees slackly. His muscles relax, his head movement suggests his eyes moving between his hands and the knife in his teacher's chest. All purpose, all violence has departed him. He looks smaller, deflated and weak and lost.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: An unsettling, dark psychological thriller from the author of Ice Cold Alice.
In a world where internet rumour becomes real-world fact, do we ever really know anyone?
High school teacher Dougie Black is brutally attacked in school. Stabbed in front of his class by a pupil with no apparent motive, Dougie fights for his life in ICU whilst DS Lewis Gilmour attempts to unravel the events leading up to the attack.
As the doctors struggle to save Dougie’s life, social media is rife with rumours about his private life. Mr Black’s friends and family begin to question everything they thought they knew about him.
Who is Dougie Black? Why did a child attempt to murder him? How did so many years of lies lead to an horrific moment of violence?
Half The Lies You Tell Are True, is a dark glimpse at what social media has done to our integrity and our perception of each other.
MY THOUGHTS: I really wanted to like this book a whole lot more than I did. I am perplexed by people who 'stage' their lives for their social media accounts, and who, even when they are out, are constantly checking their accounts in case someone else is having more fun, eating somewhere better, or in more prestigious company. It amazes me that someone can post something absolutely random, and people believe it and 'share' it. People can post an 'opinion', and it becomes a 'fact'. For every plus in having unrestricted contact with one another, there is a downside; for every honest 'friend' communication there is someone else manipulating people's views, spreading malicious rumours, or cyberbullying, often insidiously.
So when a teacher is stabbed by a pupil, of course the rumour mill goes into overdrive, one or two tweets casting aspersions on the character of Mr Black take on a life of their own, becoming a deluge. Was Harry abused? Was there more to this incident than is at first apparent?
I was eager to read Half The Lies You Tell Are True by C. P. Wilson, and I started with anticipation that just dwindled into puzzlement until I virtually lost interest in the outcome. The second half of the book found me skimming large sections, eager to get to the end and move on. Which is a pity, because this is a story that needs to be told. The story of the dangers of believing everything you read on the net, of how stories spread become 'fact' with no corroboration and even less consideration to the feelings of the person on the receiving end.
This is a dark glimpse of the world of the teenager, of how bullying can be taken to a whole new level, of gullibility, and the lack of accountability. I am glad I am not growing up in this era. I worry for my grandchildren. The relevance of the topic was not lost on me, but this is not a book I will be recommending. 2.5 stars.
Just because I found this to be an unsatisfying read doesn't mean that you won't love it. This is my personal opinion, my reaction to the book. Most reviews for this book are positive, so if you enjoyed the excerpt and like the summary of the plot, please go ahead and read Half The Lies You Tell Are True by C. P. Wilson. You may well be one of the many who enjoy this book.
Thank you to the author C. P. Wilson and Paddy's Daddy Publishing for providing a digital ARC of Half The Lies You Tell Are True for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the 'about'page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system.
This review and others are also published on my blog sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
ABOUT THIS BOOK: An unsettling, dark psychological thriller from the author of Ice Cold Alice.
In a world where internet rumour becomes real-world fact, do we ever really know anyone?
High school teacher Dougie Black is brutally attacked in school. Stabbed in front of his class by a pupil with no apparent motive, Dougie fights for his life in ICU whilst DS Lewis Gilmour attempts to unravel the events leading up to the attack.
As the doctors struggle to save Dougie’s life, social media is rife with rumours about his private life. Mr Black’s friends and family begin to question everything they thought they knew about him.
Who is Dougie Black? Why did a child attempt to murder him? How did so many years of lies lead to an horrific moment of violence?
Half The Lies You Tell Are True, is a dark glimpse at what social media has done to our integrity and our perception of each other.
MY THOUGHTS: I really wanted to like this book a whole lot more than I did. I am perplexed by people who 'stage' their lives for their social media accounts, and who, even when they are out, are constantly checking their accounts in case someone else is having more fun, eating somewhere better, or in more prestigious company. It amazes me that someone can post something absolutely random, and people believe it and 'share' it. People can post an 'opinion', and it becomes a 'fact'. For every plus in having unrestricted contact with one another, there is a downside; for every honest 'friend' communication there is someone else manipulating people's views, spreading malicious rumours, or cyberbullying, often insidiously.
So when a teacher is stabbed by a pupil, of course the rumour mill goes into overdrive, one or two tweets casting aspersions on the character of Mr Black take on a life of their own, becoming a deluge. Was Harry abused? Was there more to this incident than is at first apparent?
I was eager to read Half The Lies You Tell Are True by C. P. Wilson, and I started with anticipation that just dwindled into puzzlement until I virtually lost interest in the outcome. The second half of the book found me skimming large sections, eager to get to the end and move on. Which is a pity, because this is a story that needs to be told. The story of the dangers of believing everything you read on the net, of how stories spread become 'fact' with no corroboration and even less consideration to the feelings of the person on the receiving end.
This is a dark glimpse of the world of the teenager, of how bullying can be taken to a whole new level, of gullibility, and the lack of accountability. I am glad I am not growing up in this era. I worry for my grandchildren. The relevance of the topic was not lost on me, but this is not a book I will be recommending. 2.5 stars.
Just because I found this to be an unsatisfying read doesn't mean that you won't love it. This is my personal opinion, my reaction to the book. Most reviews for this book are positive, so if you enjoyed the excerpt and like the summary of the plot, please go ahead and read Half The Lies You Tell Are True by C. P. Wilson. You may well be one of the many who enjoy this book.
Thank you to the author C. P. Wilson and Paddy's Daddy Publishing for providing a digital ARC of Half The Lies You Tell Are True for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the 'about'page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system.
This review and others are also published on my blog sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
August 2, 2018
I found this far more emotional than I had expected. In Half The Lies You Tell Are True, C.P. Wilson dissects the before and after of an attack by a pupil on a respected teacher in a Scottish secondary school.
I was initially convinced I knew where this story was heading and was then shocked when I found out what had really been going on.
Bit by bit, the reader is introduced to the private personas of the experienced, helpful science teacher and the sixteen-year-old boy who stabbed him. Their backgrounds and relationships with families and friends are revealed and the story becomes increasingly tragic. It was impossible to not feel empathy for both of them. All the characters felt very real, so did the dialogue.
The (mis)use of social media and news reporting play an important role. This book made me feel glad that my children grew up with only "normal" peer pressure and not the added, constant pressure of social media.
A heartbreaking, powerful and topical book, that I was glued to. I'm glad I read it, but it left me emotionally worn-out.
I was initially convinced I knew where this story was heading and was then shocked when I found out what had really been going on.
Bit by bit, the reader is introduced to the private personas of the experienced, helpful science teacher and the sixteen-year-old boy who stabbed him. Their backgrounds and relationships with families and friends are revealed and the story becomes increasingly tragic. It was impossible to not feel empathy for both of them. All the characters felt very real, so did the dialogue.
The (mis)use of social media and news reporting play an important role. This book made me feel glad that my children grew up with only "normal" peer pressure and not the added, constant pressure of social media.
A heartbreaking, powerful and topical book, that I was glued to. I'm glad I read it, but it left me emotionally worn-out.
June 14, 2018
The story is set in three parts. We start off with the horrific knife attack by student Harry Jardine on a well thought of teacher, Dougie Black. Sadly this isn't just fiction. In the last two years there has been very similar attacks in high schools near me. It always makes you wonder why do these students do what they do.
In Half The Lies You Tell the author goes some way in to why these things happen and it makes for some shocking and emotive reading. We get to know both Dougie and Harry better and as much as I would never condone what Harry has done, my heart literally broke for both of them.
I like how the author incorporates social media and the mix of responses to the news. Everyone jumping on the band wagon coming straight out with what they think and going off hearsay. It is quite sad actually and I hope it makes people sit back and think about how damaging some of the things they say can be.
Frankie is a great character. A teacher who Dougie mentored and of who Frankie has a lot of respect for. No one really knows the man behind the teacher but students and teachers alike have always held him in high esteem. Having witnessed the attack, Frankie, like the reader is trying to get her head around what has happened.
Half The Lies You Tell is a hard hitting and powerful read that had me going through a whole array of emotions. I think it teaches the reader that in a world that is very quick to judge, we should sit back and look at the bigger picture and try and be more understanding about why these things happen. A gripping yet heart breaking read. Loved it.
In Half The Lies You Tell the author goes some way in to why these things happen and it makes for some shocking and emotive reading. We get to know both Dougie and Harry better and as much as I would never condone what Harry has done, my heart literally broke for both of them.
I like how the author incorporates social media and the mix of responses to the news. Everyone jumping on the band wagon coming straight out with what they think and going off hearsay. It is quite sad actually and I hope it makes people sit back and think about how damaging some of the things they say can be.
Frankie is a great character. A teacher who Dougie mentored and of who Frankie has a lot of respect for. No one really knows the man behind the teacher but students and teachers alike have always held him in high esteem. Having witnessed the attack, Frankie, like the reader is trying to get her head around what has happened.
Half The Lies You Tell is a hard hitting and powerful read that had me going through a whole array of emotions. I think it teaches the reader that in a world that is very quick to judge, we should sit back and look at the bigger picture and try and be more understanding about why these things happen. A gripping yet heart breaking read. Loved it.
August 28, 2018
This is a difficult and awkward review for me to write because a) I know the author through social media and b) I selected this book as part of my book club's Book of the Month.
Whilst the story line and idea is interesting, and unfortunately topical in today's world with knife attacks and the power of social media, I wasn't able to connect or sympathise with one of the main characters, Frankie, and frankly wanted to slap her myself.
It didn't help that the book had quite a lot of typos which also affected my opinion.
I’m not sure if it was just me, but I also struggled with the lack of pronouns in the book. Each character had their full name repeatedly mentioned in almost every paragraph which reduced my reading pleasure.
In short, and purely in my opinion; an interesting storyline which was let down by silly mistakes that should have been picked up by the publishers, proofreaders, etc.
Whilst the story line and idea is interesting, and unfortunately topical in today's world with knife attacks and the power of social media, I wasn't able to connect or sympathise with one of the main characters, Frankie, and frankly wanted to slap her myself.
It didn't help that the book had quite a lot of typos which also affected my opinion.
I’m not sure if it was just me, but I also struggled with the lack of pronouns in the book. Each character had their full name repeatedly mentioned in almost every paragraph which reduced my reading pleasure.
In short, and purely in my opinion; an interesting storyline which was let down by silly mistakes that should have been picked up by the publishers, proofreaders, etc.
July 4, 2018
This book grabbed me from the off and didn’t let go. There were many times I actually forgot I was reading a work of fiction. The characters were so real. The plot intriguing, and at times heartbreaking. I’m a huge fan of Mark Wilson, and this book certainly didn’t disappoint. A schoolboy, Harry Maguire, stabs a teacher. But why? I strongly suggest you buy this superb book to find out. Huge 5 stars from me.
September 18, 2018
I liked this book.
There was interesting blend of third person narrative and the inclusion of tweets/blasts/posts/comments etc etc that have become second nature to our modern society and its reliance on social media.
It carried the stark message that just because the media says so, doesn’t actually make it true, as well as a warning to the dangers and repercussions of bullying and abuse, whether that be physical, emotional, psychological, or cyber.
There was interesting blend of third person narrative and the inclusion of tweets/blasts/posts/comments etc etc that have become second nature to our modern society and its reliance on social media.
It carried the stark message that just because the media says so, doesn’t actually make it true, as well as a warning to the dangers and repercussions of bullying and abuse, whether that be physical, emotional, psychological, or cyber.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2018
I read this dark and disturbing novel in one day as I just had to find out the whole story behind the terrible events at Cambuscraig High School in Edinburgh. With news reports and social media postings, it felt very realistic and so true to life that I found myself shocked and horrified at the beginning and quite emotional towards the end.
We are launched straight into the action as Frankie Malone witnesses her fellow teacher and friend, Dougie Black, struggling to restrain one of his pupils. What Frankie sees next will stay with her forever as 16 year old Harry Jardine thrusts a knife into Mr Black over and over again. The pupils and teachers who witnessed the attack are interviewed by the police but the public aren't too interested in facts as the rumour mill starts churning and Mr Black's relationships with his students are called into question. After all, he must have done something to make Harry Jardine attack this popular teacher.
This is such a thought-provoking book as I find it fascinating how quick we are to jump to conclusions and always see the worst in people. As the rumours start to circulate, even Frankie begins to doubt her friend. Everyone seems to have an opinion about Harry's motive but some people know more than they're letting on. When Dougie's private life is put under the microscope, people see what they want to see to add fuel to the fire as Dougie has been spotted spending time with a young woman. After all, what would a man in his sixties be doing with a woman in her twenties?
Half The Lies You Tell Are True is very cleverly written to entice the reader to believe the rumours and although I thought I was firmly in Dougie's corner, I even doubted his innocence at one time or another. The book is written in three excellent parts: part 1 being the attack in the school, part 2 takes a step back and shows us Dougie Black and Harry Jardine before the attack and part 3 is the aftermath, which left me struggling to hold back tears. I didn't realise how emotionally invested I was in the story until I felt the lump in my throat; with the reason behind the attack laid bare I found it so tragic how lives can be irrevocably altered by one thoughtless act. An act that may have seemed like a harmless spark but once it caught, the flames were fanned by the mob mentality of social media. It is so scary how easy it is for people to hide behind a screen and throw virtual stones at people.
A compelling read and a brilliant psychological thriller for the digital age that examines how very different the human psyche can be on and offline.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
We are launched straight into the action as Frankie Malone witnesses her fellow teacher and friend, Dougie Black, struggling to restrain one of his pupils. What Frankie sees next will stay with her forever as 16 year old Harry Jardine thrusts a knife into Mr Black over and over again. The pupils and teachers who witnessed the attack are interviewed by the police but the public aren't too interested in facts as the rumour mill starts churning and Mr Black's relationships with his students are called into question. After all, he must have done something to make Harry Jardine attack this popular teacher.
This is such a thought-provoking book as I find it fascinating how quick we are to jump to conclusions and always see the worst in people. As the rumours start to circulate, even Frankie begins to doubt her friend. Everyone seems to have an opinion about Harry's motive but some people know more than they're letting on. When Dougie's private life is put under the microscope, people see what they want to see to add fuel to the fire as Dougie has been spotted spending time with a young woman. After all, what would a man in his sixties be doing with a woman in her twenties?
Half The Lies You Tell Are True is very cleverly written to entice the reader to believe the rumours and although I thought I was firmly in Dougie's corner, I even doubted his innocence at one time or another. The book is written in three excellent parts: part 1 being the attack in the school, part 2 takes a step back and shows us Dougie Black and Harry Jardine before the attack and part 3 is the aftermath, which left me struggling to hold back tears. I didn't realise how emotionally invested I was in the story until I felt the lump in my throat; with the reason behind the attack laid bare I found it so tragic how lives can be irrevocably altered by one thoughtless act. An act that may have seemed like a harmless spark but once it caught, the flames were fanned by the mob mentality of social media. It is so scary how easy it is for people to hide behind a screen and throw virtual stones at people.
A compelling read and a brilliant psychological thriller for the digital age that examines how very different the human psyche can be on and offline.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
July 4, 2018
Straight into My Top five books I have read this year..Brilliant and Beautifully written.
Dougie Black a teacher is brutally stabbed in the classroom multiple times by a sixteen year old boy.Frankie Malone who witnessed the stabbing is another teacher tries desperately to save his life..When Mr.Black is taken away to the hospital Frankie Malone goes along with him, and stays by his bedside..As Mr.Black fights for his life ,Harry is arrested and taken in for questioning..All through this are flashbacks of what leads up to the incident...Young Harry has had a shitty life.The only constant in his life is his childhood friend Jenna, now though Jenna is growing up..she is changing into a beautiful young woman and they are drifting apart.Then when Jenna has a party one night she invites people that Harry has no time for..Harry is having a bad time at home, is lonely has no one he can really communicate with..But after the party,things go seriously wrong..and the most amazing ,wonderful ,gentle ,kindest teacher that ever walked the earth is the one who pays the price.Now there are two lives ruined...But DI Gilmour who is assigned to the case...digs deep into the story...And for one broken soul who has nothing and no one left in the world..who saw a red mist and blew...What hope is left for him? CP Wilson's Half the Lies You Tell are True...Is an ugly yet so so beautiful story about two wounded beings .Mr Black is one of the most beautiful souls to have walked the earth...I wish I had had him as my teacher. .
Dougie Black a teacher is brutally stabbed in the classroom multiple times by a sixteen year old boy.Frankie Malone who witnessed the stabbing is another teacher tries desperately to save his life..When Mr.Black is taken away to the hospital Frankie Malone goes along with him, and stays by his bedside..As Mr.Black fights for his life ,Harry is arrested and taken in for questioning..All through this are flashbacks of what leads up to the incident...Young Harry has had a shitty life.The only constant in his life is his childhood friend Jenna, now though Jenna is growing up..she is changing into a beautiful young woman and they are drifting apart.Then when Jenna has a party one night she invites people that Harry has no time for..Harry is having a bad time at home, is lonely has no one he can really communicate with..But after the party,things go seriously wrong..and the most amazing ,wonderful ,gentle ,kindest teacher that ever walked the earth is the one who pays the price.Now there are two lives ruined...But DI Gilmour who is assigned to the case...digs deep into the story...And for one broken soul who has nothing and no one left in the world..who saw a red mist and blew...What hope is left for him? CP Wilson's Half the Lies You Tell are True...Is an ugly yet so so beautiful story about two wounded beings .Mr Black is one of the most beautiful souls to have walked the earth...I wish I had had him as my teacher. .
August 2, 2018
There seems to be no more prolific writer on the Indie writing scene than Mark Wilson, at least when it comes to producing high quality, non generic work.
Following on from the wonderfully polished, ‘Alice’, I was pleased to see Wilson avoid resting on his laurels, choosing yet again to go after something different. In this case we are drawn into the author’s world of social media within the context of a school environment, where lives are judged, manipulated and destroyed with a quick post. But while the truth is the first casualty, it isn’t the last.
A book of three parts, it begins in the bloody trauma of the present, but it is in part two that the story really gets going as the main characters pasts are revealed. Stolen love, life’s unfairness, selflessness, bitterness, courage, cowardice and deceit all fuel the story towards its climax.
Evoking a range of emotions from laughter to melancholy and rage, it’s a complex, multi-faceted book, skilfully pulled off by the author.
Following on from the wonderfully polished, ‘Alice’, I was pleased to see Wilson avoid resting on his laurels, choosing yet again to go after something different. In this case we are drawn into the author’s world of social media within the context of a school environment, where lives are judged, manipulated and destroyed with a quick post. But while the truth is the first casualty, it isn’t the last.
A book of three parts, it begins in the bloody trauma of the present, but it is in part two that the story really gets going as the main characters pasts are revealed. Stolen love, life’s unfairness, selflessness, bitterness, courage, cowardice and deceit all fuel the story towards its climax.
Evoking a range of emotions from laughter to melancholy and rage, it’s a complex, multi-faceted book, skilfully pulled off by the author.
July 3, 2018
This is a great, if somewhat disturbing read. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the violent attack carried out by school boy Harry on a teacher that was most disturbing. It was the destructive power of the internet and social media. As the story unfolds you are drawn into the despair of the characters, and the hopelessness of their situation. So many lives ruined, that by the end of the book you are emotionally drained. This may be an excellent piece of emotive fiction, but the author captures perfectly what could happen to anyone of us, should we find ourselves on the wrong side of a cyber bully. Great read, highly recommended.
September 7, 2018
Ah heck, that was just so sad. The book opens with a brutal and shocking scene. It looks at the tragic consequences of bullying in the digital age when everything is amplified and 'fake news' abounds. Rumors can become facts and people's reputations can be ruined. There is no suicide in this story, this is even worse. Poor 16 year old Harry Jardine finally cracks under the pressure. His dad died when he was six, his step-dad beats him and verbally abuses him and his mum ignores it. But Just when he thinks there might be one good thing in his life it, too, turns to shit and Harry snaps. He goes to school with a knife and grievously wounds a teacher. Was the teacher the target or was it one of the students in the room? What exactly caused Harry RO snap? When you finally get the full story you just feel what a waste it all was and how sad the outcome. There are no winners here.
Some readers might think the characters were a bit stereotypical and maybe they were but I think the author used that as a device to make a few points. Anyway, I enjoyed the story, for once not a thriller per se but riveting non-the-less.
Some readers might think the characters were a bit stereotypical and maybe they were but I think the author used that as a device to make a few points. Anyway, I enjoyed the story, for once not a thriller per se but riveting non-the-less.
December 3, 2018
A cautionary tale, for sure, one that every middle schooler should read. Even though it’s set in Scotland, the cultural vocabulary barrier should not be hard to work through.
School and home are the worlds that dominate, instruct, and shape our children. These are the places where they try to make sense of the words “fair and balanced”. Unfortunately, because it is not a time in their lives when they’re equipped to make decisions based on much more than a dream, and maybe a glance of something they’ve seen in a Netflix movie, the sense they make gets skewed. Add to that parents who are little more than mentally challenged, emotionally stunted teenagers themselves, and you have nothing but a maelstrom. Add social media, which is taken as Truth (until proven boring) and then you get pandemonium of the mind, or a complete shutdown.
This novella shows what can happen. I highly recommend it.
School and home are the worlds that dominate, instruct, and shape our children. These are the places where they try to make sense of the words “fair and balanced”. Unfortunately, because it is not a time in their lives when they’re equipped to make decisions based on much more than a dream, and maybe a glance of something they’ve seen in a Netflix movie, the sense they make gets skewed. Add to that parents who are little more than mentally challenged, emotionally stunted teenagers themselves, and you have nothing but a maelstrom. Add social media, which is taken as Truth (until proven boring) and then you get pandemonium of the mind, or a complete shutdown.
This novella shows what can happen. I highly recommend it.
July 3, 2018
Dougie Black is a High School Biology teacher that is attacked and stabbed by his student Harry Jardine. As Dougie fights for his life in the hospital, rumors start flying on social media about what happened and the supposed “truth” behind the scenes. Then there is Francesca, Frankie, Malone. Frankie is a teacher that was mentored by Dougie when she first started. The rumors can’t be true but the more she looks into them the more she starts questioning herself about Dougie. What is the truth? It’s up to DS Lewis Gilmour to figure this out.
This is a story that could have easily came out of any newspaper today. Everyone relies on social media so much, especially the younger generation that lives are seriously being affected. How many suicides have been caused from social media? Murders? Worse? This story kits right at this topic.
Dougie has had his share of a hard life and is currently trying to deal with his wife’s dementia. Of course there are things in his past that he has done that can affect him today, he is only human. Then you have Harris whose mother could care less if he was even around. His step father abuses him physically and mentally. But he is a victim of bullying from social media too.
It is so sad how much social media affects people. They instantly get riled up and go off to argue or protest and not fact check or really look at the whole situation. This book is a great representation of what is happening in real life and is heartbreaking to read. But it is one that I recommend everyone read, especially today’s kids and young adults.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
This is a story that could have easily came out of any newspaper today. Everyone relies on social media so much, especially the younger generation that lives are seriously being affected. How many suicides have been caused from social media? Murders? Worse? This story kits right at this topic.
Dougie has had his share of a hard life and is currently trying to deal with his wife’s dementia. Of course there are things in his past that he has done that can affect him today, he is only human. Then you have Harris whose mother could care less if he was even around. His step father abuses him physically and mentally. But he is a victim of bullying from social media too.
It is so sad how much social media affects people. They instantly get riled up and go off to argue or protest and not fact check or really look at the whole situation. This book is a great representation of what is happening in real life and is heartbreaking to read. But it is one that I recommend everyone read, especially today’s kids and young adults.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
November 17, 2018
Must Read
C.P. Wilson has written an unputtdownable masterpiece with this novel. Easily moved into the top 3 books I've read this year. This novel will evoke every emotion you possess. We live in a world where social media decides what's true. So many of us try to portray the "perfect life" that I think sometimes interferes into our daily lives.
Social Media is a great way to keep in touch; but what if it were to turn against you?
This novel shows how easily social media can and does harm everyday. In Half the Lies You Tell are True, social media is used to systemically bully a teen to break- the aftermath is horrific. Pre-teens & Teens are bullied to the violence against others and themselves everyday. As there are mean kids - there are adults who donthe same -many times they are just more savvy about how to go about it.
I am so glad the social media craze was just really beginning when my kids were teens;If I had a teen now I'd be an extremely active monitor.
Spoiler Alert- My thoughts and emotions are still raw after finishing this book. Would Harry Jardine reacted the we same if he didn't believe he attacks on him online can we from a friend? I'm sure parents in the real world have wondered the sane. Bottom Line social media can be great tool but for some it creates a life if constant attack.
C.P. Wilson has written an unputtdownable masterpiece with this novel. Easily moved into the top 3 books I've read this year. This novel will evoke every emotion you possess. We live in a world where social media decides what's true. So many of us try to portray the "perfect life" that I think sometimes interferes into our daily lives.
Social Media is a great way to keep in touch; but what if it were to turn against you?
This novel shows how easily social media can and does harm everyday. In Half the Lies You Tell are True, social media is used to systemically bully a teen to break- the aftermath is horrific. Pre-teens & Teens are bullied to the violence against others and themselves everyday. As there are mean kids - there are adults who donthe same -many times they are just more savvy about how to go about it.
I am so glad the social media craze was just really beginning when my kids were teens;If I had a teen now I'd be an extremely active monitor.
Spoiler Alert- My thoughts and emotions are still raw after finishing this book. Would Harry Jardine reacted the we same if he didn't believe he attacks on him online can we from a friend? I'm sure parents in the real world have wondered the sane. Bottom Line social media can be great tool but for some it creates a life if constant attack.
December 21, 2018
I really enjoyed reading this book, I can see how this book can relate to many kids of nowadays because cyberbullying can have a huge impact on anyone. So I am glad that this book raises awareness. I will say It was an easy read, but the reason I give it 4 stars is because I noticed a lot of typos etc that the publisher should of corrected. It was a bit confusing to read.
But it made my cry at the end with the epilogue and to me that is what really sets this author apart.
I definitely DO recommend it.
But it made my cry at the end with the epilogue and to me that is what really sets this author apart.
I definitely DO recommend it.
July 27, 2018
And the truth shall set you free
5 stars for this intense read that is both mystery & high drama.
Complex characters build great tension, rolled in with taboo subjects, heart breaking behavior & the mass eruptor, which is social media.
This story is rife with rumors, bad social media, problematic school/teen issues & expected behavior.
Great read!
5 stars for this intense read that is both mystery & high drama.
Complex characters build great tension, rolled in with taboo subjects, heart breaking behavior & the mass eruptor, which is social media.
This story is rife with rumors, bad social media, problematic school/teen issues & expected behavior.
Great read!
July 18, 2018
What with the title?
There are certainly lots of lies being told in this book. They are certainly untrue. So what with the title.
Not as thrilling as it is made out to be. Unsettling maybe, but you can see who has done what and how things going to end up in the end from miles away.
There are certainly lots of lies being told in this book. They are certainly untrue. So what with the title.
Not as thrilling as it is made out to be. Unsettling maybe, but you can see who has done what and how things going to end up in the end from miles away.
July 4, 2018
This book could be classed as fiction realism, with the stabbing in school, being at the forefront and beginning of the story, it is the backlash and cyber bullying that is the hard hitting emotive read.
Mark Wilson, cleverly brings us a story that is relevant and relatable. However it isn’t an easy read and you soon see that what is what you think it is, isn’t.
How quick we are to judge = especially behind the safety of a keyboard.
A hard hitting, interesting novel that is told in three parts, to get to the full story, don’t assume until you know all the facts, and even then, judge at your peril.
Mark Wilson, cleverly brings us a story that is relevant and relatable. However it isn’t an easy read and you soon see that what is what you think it is, isn’t.
How quick we are to judge = especially behind the safety of a keyboard.
A hard hitting, interesting novel that is told in three parts, to get to the full story, don’t assume until you know all the facts, and even then, judge at your peril.
July 14, 2018
Another great read from one of my favorite authors. He just keeps getting better. This is an incredibly powerful story that showcases the danger of social media in the modern world. A vicious attack opens the book and immediately grabs hold of your heart, pulling you along for an emotional ride through the tale of a devoted teacher during an unfortunate and violent day at school. A modern hero unable to defend himself against the cruel and opinionated onslaught he faces online, all based on assumption and absent of any fact, willing to give everything for his students. A man who has faced many challenges in his personal life chooses to push everything aside, and work harder to help the children learn and grow, while trying to maintain the enjoyment necessary for class. And how is he repaid? The characterization and heart are very well done in this story, like everything from Wilson, and from the beginning the author holds a light to the good men and women that give their lives for the improvement and preparation of the younger generations. Selfless and total sacrifice made by teachers whose only reward is the success of someone else. A student that leads a good life is marked as a success for a teacher. The anger and pain and fear packed into the words during the attack will bring tears to your eyes, pulling at your heart and tossing fuel onto a raging fire of intense hatred for the attacker, only to learn that he is another misunderstood and victimized individual who has been bullied for far too long. But that is just the beginning. Brilliantly paced with a wonderful plot that brings you closer to the residents of Edinburgh that ALL suffer after the incident, a town that must work together and recover after the news and social media get hold of the story. This whole thing reads like a horrifying news report mixed with a suspenseful thriller, peppered with the opinions and "facts" reported by random strangers on Twitter and Facebook to distract from the true story and struggle Dougie Black is facing, and finishing with an exceptional read.
July 5, 2018
I do not give 5 stars. I. Do. Not.
I cannot think of the last book I did give 5 stars to.
I do not write reviews (GoodReads is for my personal use and memory keeper so seldom feel the need).
I do NOT contact authors and turn all “fan girl”.
NONE of my typical standards apply to Half The Lies You Tell.
5+ stars ✔️
Review (my sort of review anyway) ✔️
Totally fan girling ✔️
Thank you for a great book. And an exceptional book that completely nails both the benefits and perils of social media.
I cannot think of the last book I did give 5 stars to.
I do not write reviews (GoodReads is for my personal use and memory keeper so seldom feel the need).
I do NOT contact authors and turn all “fan girl”.
NONE of my typical standards apply to Half The Lies You Tell.
5+ stars ✔️
Review (my sort of review anyway) ✔️
Totally fan girling ✔️
Thank you for a great book. And an exceptional book that completely nails both the benefits and perils of social media.
July 17, 2018
This is an interesting book that shows how anonymous the internet can be. Cyber bullying has become epidemic and rumors on social media are so often taken as fact. Science teacher Dougie Black is attacked by a student in front of his class. While Dougie is in ICU, social media is questioning what really happened and why he was attacked. The story takes place in the present time and then back tracks to events leading up to the attack. The editing needs some improvement but then again quite a few books need better editing these days.
July 7, 2018
Couldn’t put it down
I have been following this author for many years and have loved their writing from the start. I didn’t think they could improve on what they have produced before, but the depth of this book just took my breath away. Very harrowing and true to life of the age of social media and its implications and the teachers who deal with this age group daily. Totally recommend that you stop everything you are doing and read this book
I have been following this author for many years and have loved their writing from the start. I didn’t think they could improve on what they have produced before, but the depth of this book just took my breath away. Very harrowing and true to life of the age of social media and its implications and the teachers who deal with this age group daily. Totally recommend that you stop everything you are doing and read this book
July 30, 2018
Very good story
Mr Black; a wonderful teacher; full of compassion for his students: why did things go so terribly wrong? I can't reveal that because it will spoil it for other readers. How typical of the media, facebook users and twitter - not all of them, but enough - to spread lies to blacken Mr Black's character! The unsettling truth - although this is fiction - in real life, it does happen! Some parts of the book brought tears to my eyes. All- in - all a very good read.
Mr Black; a wonderful teacher; full of compassion for his students: why did things go so terribly wrong? I can't reveal that because it will spoil it for other readers. How typical of the media, facebook users and twitter - not all of them, but enough - to spread lies to blacken Mr Black's character! The unsettling truth - although this is fiction - in real life, it does happen! Some parts of the book brought tears to my eyes. All- in - all a very good read.
September 6, 2018
Dougie Black, who is a well respected teacher is brutally stabbed by a student in class with no apparent motive. He fights for his life in hospital while the police try to work out what has happened to lead to this tragedy.
Why did a pupil try to murder him?
I enjoyed the story and enjoyed the way it all came together in the end. It shows that the action of one person can have harrowing consequences for others.
Why did a pupil try to murder him?
I enjoyed the story and enjoyed the way it all came together in the end. It shows that the action of one person can have harrowing consequences for others.
September 21, 2018
This is a book of 2 halves, the first half is very good, it just peters out a bit at the end. Some great ideas along the way though and a really good plot. Some really visceral stuff and some great characters written well. At its core is the idea that once something is out there it has a truth of its own. I need to read more of CP Wilson’s stuff to see if the ideas remain as fresh as for this book
September 26, 2018
EVERYONE SHOULD READ THIS BOOK!
This book will not only touch your heart (I cried) but it will make you think deeply about the impact social media has on our lives today. How one throwaway comment under a post can cause a wonderful man's reputation to be called into question and cyber bullying can have devastating effects, resulting in murder and the destruction of two innocent lives. A must read.
This book will not only touch your heart (I cried) but it will make you think deeply about the impact social media has on our lives today. How one throwaway comment under a post can cause a wonderful man's reputation to be called into question and cyber bullying can have devastating effects, resulting in murder and the destruction of two innocent lives. A must read.
January 6, 2019
This book grabbed me from the first page!
One of those books that you can not put down. Really wasn't sure what it was about when i first picked it up, but then found out
i read books on this topic before, but this one went so much further into the reasoning, etc.
I think this is a must read for anyone who has a child in school! But really it's a great read for anyone. Will be thinking about it for quite awhile. Kudos to the author.
One of those books that you can not put down. Really wasn't sure what it was about when i first picked it up, but then found out
i read books on this topic before, but this one went so much further into the reasoning, etc.
I think this is a must read for anyone who has a child in school! But really it's a great read for anyone. Will be thinking about it for quite awhile. Kudos to the author.
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