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The Camera Never Lies
David Rawlings, author of The Baggage Handler, returns with another probing story: what would you do if your secrets were revealed to those around you?
Daniel Whiteley is a successful couples counselor who regularly puts families back together, helping them face up to the things in life they hide. But his own marriage is falling apart.
His wife, Kelly, knows Daniel is hiding something from her, but she doesn’t dare probe for fear her own secrets will be revealed.
When his grandfather dies, Daniel inherits an old SLR camera from a time when cameras pointed away from the person taking the photograph. On the camera is an inscription: “Use this camera wisely and remember, regardless of the picture you think you took, the camera never lies.”
When Daniel first uses his new camera he finds someone has already filled the roll of film. Annoyed, he processes the film and finds photos of a secret that he’s been hiding from his wife and daughter.
He has no idea who took them.
Now every time he uses the camera, the photographs reveal another secret about himself the he is desperate to keep—as well as those of his wife, which he is desperate to uncover.
Daniel Whiteley is a successful couples counselor who regularly puts families back together, helping them face up to the things in life they hide. But his own marriage is falling apart.
His wife, Kelly, knows Daniel is hiding something from her, but she doesn’t dare probe for fear her own secrets will be revealed.
When his grandfather dies, Daniel inherits an old SLR camera from a time when cameras pointed away from the person taking the photograph. On the camera is an inscription: “Use this camera wisely and remember, regardless of the picture you think you took, the camera never lies.”
When Daniel first uses his new camera he finds someone has already filled the roll of film. Annoyed, he processes the film and finds photos of a secret that he’s been hiding from his wife and daughter.
He has no idea who took them.
Now every time he uses the camera, the photographs reveal another secret about himself the he is desperate to keep—as well as those of his wife, which he is desperate to uncover.
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First published December 3, 2019
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October 21, 2023
Daniel Whiteley, wife Kelly, and twelve year old daughter Milly appear to be the perfect family and it’s not the case. Daniel is a successful marriage counsellor and bestselling author, his own marriage is at a crisis point, he discovers his daughter is failing school and they're worried about her self-harming.
The deadline for his second book has come and gone, he keeps fobbing off his publisher, he hasn't written a single word and he just goes blank when he opens his browser. After his grandfather’s funeral Daniel inherits his old Olympus camera, he notices an inscription on the bottom: "No matter what you think you might see, the camera never lies."
Daniel starts using the camera, but every time he has the photo’s developed by Simon, the images threaten to reveal secrets that could end his marriage, career and he would have to hand back the money he’s been paid in advance for his second book. Daniel is at a crossroads of his life, should he come clean admit what he’s done wrong, or keep the secrets that are destroying his self esteem and family.
I received a digital copy of The Camera Never Lies by David Rawlings from Thomas Nelson-Fiction and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. A story about an old camera and it has the power to show people their future in pictures, how they react to it and will it make them change their ways. The price of honesty, telling the truth, there is always more to life than what we see in front of us, don’t tell lies and keep secrets. A somewhat quirky way of delivering a message and meaning in a different style of narrative and three stars from me.
The deadline for his second book has come and gone, he keeps fobbing off his publisher, he hasn't written a single word and he just goes blank when he opens his browser. After his grandfather’s funeral Daniel inherits his old Olympus camera, he notices an inscription on the bottom: "No matter what you think you might see, the camera never lies."
Daniel starts using the camera, but every time he has the photo’s developed by Simon, the images threaten to reveal secrets that could end his marriage, career and he would have to hand back the money he’s been paid in advance for his second book. Daniel is at a crossroads of his life, should he come clean admit what he’s done wrong, or keep the secrets that are destroying his self esteem and family.
I received a digital copy of The Camera Never Lies by David Rawlings from Thomas Nelson-Fiction and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. A story about an old camera and it has the power to show people their future in pictures, how they react to it and will it make them change their ways. The price of honesty, telling the truth, there is always more to life than what we see in front of us, don’t tell lies and keep secrets. A somewhat quirky way of delivering a message and meaning in a different style of narrative and three stars from me.
December 4, 2019
2.5 stars rounded up
Rawlings has an incredible imagination and his themes are spot on, as it was with his first novel. This book explores the theme of secret keeping and the effects that has on relationships and a person's entire life. Keeping the secrets becomes more and more difficult as time passes. Overall, this book is worth reading because that message is powerful. Loved the idea of this magical camera that sees the truth.
However, the novel had a few issues for me. The characters seemed more like caricatures of real people than real people. I never got a full sense of any of them, especially Milly. Her reasoning behind her behavior was puzzling and honestly a bit strange. And the connection between Anna and Daniel isn't developed at all, so when the camera starts reflecting truths about them it comes totally out of nowhere. Since I just read an absolutely amazing non-fiction book about a therapist, this book suffers in comparison. Many of the privacy issues, therapy moments, and other things about it weren't portrayed accurately and pulled me out of the story.
Overall, this was a quick read with an interesting message. I will continue to read other books by this author.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Rawlings has an incredible imagination and his themes are spot on, as it was with his first novel. This book explores the theme of secret keeping and the effects that has on relationships and a person's entire life. Keeping the secrets becomes more and more difficult as time passes. Overall, this book is worth reading because that message is powerful. Loved the idea of this magical camera that sees the truth.
However, the novel had a few issues for me. The characters seemed more like caricatures of real people than real people. I never got a full sense of any of them, especially Milly. Her reasoning behind her behavior was puzzling and honestly a bit strange. And the connection between Anna and Daniel isn't developed at all, so when the camera starts reflecting truths about them it comes totally out of nowhere. Since I just read an absolutely amazing non-fiction book about a therapist, this book suffers in comparison. Many of the privacy issues, therapy moments, and other things about it weren't portrayed accurately and pulled me out of the story.
Overall, this was a quick read with an interesting message. I will continue to read other books by this author.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
November 4, 2019
Coming from Thomas Nelson- a Christian publisher, I expected that The Camera Never Lies would be much more faith based with a supernatural twist. I was rather surprised that God was- to the best of my recollection- not mentioned at all. Nor was faith really. If they were, they were so little of the focus that I failed to remember those instances anyway. I say this not as a negative, just a surprise to me. Though I DO personally enjoy stories with more Christian content, I know that that is not the case for everyone. As such, I think that this story on the importance of truth in marriage and in life can reach a broader audience than what your typical Christian fiction story might. It is a story we can all enjoy, and can feel assured that there will not be any inappropriate content as well.
In The Camera Never Lies, we meet Daniel... a marriage counselor whose own marriage and family seems to be falling apart. When his grandfather leaves him an old camera, he learns that 'the camera never lies'. When he takes the film to be developed, he realizes that things aren't as they should be. The camera is not capturing the faces that we put on and present to the world, but rather the truths behind the mask.
Sounds fascinating, doesn't it? I love a good story with a magical/supernatural aspect to it myself. I don't read them as often as I would like as I try to stick to clean reads, which can be a little harder to find in that genre. Aside from that, I am a hobby-ist photographer so just the camera aspect appealed to me in that regards as well. Is this style going to be for everyone? Maybe not. I know many who generally enjoy Christian fiction might not enjoy the magical aspect of the story... but personally, I really enjoyed it. My only real complaint is that it was quite short! I read it in less than a day... admittedly I am a speed reader anyway but this was quick even for me! I would have loved a longer story to dig even deeper into the lives of these characters or perhaps the mysterious camera shop owner. Still, it was a great quick read and one that I would certainly recommend.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. All thoughts are 100% my own.
In The Camera Never Lies, we meet Daniel... a marriage counselor whose own marriage and family seems to be falling apart. When his grandfather leaves him an old camera, he learns that 'the camera never lies'. When he takes the film to be developed, he realizes that things aren't as they should be. The camera is not capturing the faces that we put on and present to the world, but rather the truths behind the mask.
Sounds fascinating, doesn't it? I love a good story with a magical/supernatural aspect to it myself. I don't read them as often as I would like as I try to stick to clean reads, which can be a little harder to find in that genre. Aside from that, I am a hobby-ist photographer so just the camera aspect appealed to me in that regards as well. Is this style going to be for everyone? Maybe not. I know many who generally enjoy Christian fiction might not enjoy the magical aspect of the story... but personally, I really enjoyed it. My only real complaint is that it was quite short! I read it in less than a day... admittedly I am a speed reader anyway but this was quick even for me! I would have loved a longer story to dig even deeper into the lives of these characters or perhaps the mysterious camera shop owner. Still, it was a great quick read and one that I would certainly recommend.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. All thoughts are 100% my own.
December 16, 2019
There was an old Twilight Zone episode back in 1960 that had a camera that took pictures of the future. The camera in this novel takes pictures of what might be the future, or what might have been the future, for the characters in the story. An odd man in a camera shop, who develops the pictures the camera takes, is a sage of sorts, enlightening those who will listen as to the importance of telling the truth and not keeping secrets.
Yes, this book has a message, or actually lots of messages for readers . If you like preachy stories, by all means, read it. Most of the characters are real enough, though, and there is one big secret that, if found out, could totally devastate the personal and professional life of the protagonist Daniel. How everything, including that big secret, is handled at the end is not particularly satisfying, but it was obviously a story written to teach and preach, not to entertain or compete with literary type novels.
(Note: I received a free ARC of this book from Amazon Vine.)
Yes, this book has a message, or actually lots of messages for readers . If you like preachy stories, by all means, read it. Most of the characters are real enough, though, and there is one big secret that, if found out, could totally devastate the personal and professional life of the protagonist Daniel. How everything, including that big secret, is handled at the end is not particularly satisfying, but it was obviously a story written to teach and preach, not to entertain or compete with literary type novels.
(Note: I received a free ARC of this book from Amazon Vine.)
December 5, 2019
I like it when a novel challenges me to live a better version of myself. This novel did that in the realm of keeping secrets. Rawlings portrays well the desire to keep secrets in order to maintain one's reputation, status in society, income, etc. There is generally a high cost in revealing secrets, however, and I was disappointed Rawlings failed to ultimately portray that. I feel the struggle does not end when secrets are revealed but does include the task of picking up the shattered pieces of life. I was also disappointed there was not a strong spiritual message about truth telling included in the plot. The plot itself might be more suited to novella length as I felt the action a bit repetitive.
Rawlings has an entertaining writing style and is a good story teller. This story is one that will make you think about the secrets you keep.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Rawlings has an entertaining writing style and is a good story teller. This story is one that will make you think about the secrets you keep.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
March 2, 2020
Australian author David Rawlings has just won a 2019 Christy Award for his debut novel, The Baggage Handler, so I wanted to find out how his second novel fared in comparison.
Personally, I think it’s even better.
Now, not everyone will agree with me. One of the strengths of The Baggage Handler was that so many readers could find themselves in one of the three characters: the ambitious businessman, the harried housewife, the teen trying to find his own definition of success. The Camera Never Lies has a narrower set of characters, but I found them just as relateable. And they’re still asking a universal question:
What would you do if your secrets were revealed to those around you? The Camera Never Lies is the story of a successful marriage counsellor who refuses to face up to the issues in his own marriage, despite his “No Secrets” tagline. Daniel Whiteley inherits his grandfather’s camera, an old-fashioned film model, the kind where the pictures are true and can’t be manipulated with filters or PhotoShop.
As Simon in the photo shop says, the camera never lies. Or so he thinks. Because when Daniel looks at the photographs, he’s sure they’re not the photos he took. So what are these photos? This is where the slight speculative element comes in, as we discover the camera is a little magical. It captures truth, but not the truth we see …
The Camera Never Lies isn’t overt Christian fiction. It never mentions God or Jesus or church or prayer. But it is definitely a story built on Christian principles—honesty, integrity, and the importance of internal character over the external trappings of success. As such, it’s both a great story, and a great gift … especially for people who would never pick up a Christian novel.
Recommended.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
Personally, I think it’s even better.
Now, not everyone will agree with me. One of the strengths of The Baggage Handler was that so many readers could find themselves in one of the three characters: the ambitious businessman, the harried housewife, the teen trying to find his own definition of success. The Camera Never Lies has a narrower set of characters, but I found them just as relateable. And they’re still asking a universal question:
What would you do if your secrets were revealed to those around you? The Camera Never Lies is the story of a successful marriage counsellor who refuses to face up to the issues in his own marriage, despite his “No Secrets” tagline. Daniel Whiteley inherits his grandfather’s camera, an old-fashioned film model, the kind where the pictures are true and can’t be manipulated with filters or PhotoShop.
As Simon in the photo shop says, the camera never lies. Or so he thinks. Because when Daniel looks at the photographs, he’s sure they’re not the photos he took. So what are these photos? This is where the slight speculative element comes in, as we discover the camera is a little magical. It captures truth, but not the truth we see …
The Camera Never Lies isn’t overt Christian fiction. It never mentions God or Jesus or church or prayer. But it is definitely a story built on Christian principles—honesty, integrity, and the importance of internal character over the external trappings of success. As such, it’s both a great story, and a great gift … especially for people who would never pick up a Christian novel.
Recommended.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
September 6, 2019
After his beloved grandfather's funeral, Daniel Whitely receives the prized and mysterious camera his grandfather purchased a decade ago. Seeing the photos developed over the next three weeks, and guided by a charismatic - if not slightly mysterious - photo lab technician, Daniel embarks on a journey of discovery and clarity.
The idea for this book felt original and fantastical, but the narrative was very repetitive with poor character development. The characters lacked tangible depth and substance - I had a difficult time feeling compassion for any of them. I would have enjoyed more backstory for each of the main characters, as well. A smattering of personal quirks or more substantial inner dialogue instead of a constant repetition of action would have helped.
I think this novel will find a good consistent three-star "beach read" following, but it just felt a little too choppy and poorly executed for my tastes.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
The idea for this book felt original and fantastical, but the narrative was very repetitive with poor character development. The characters lacked tangible depth and substance - I had a difficult time feeling compassion for any of them. I would have enjoyed more backstory for each of the main characters, as well. A smattering of personal quirks or more substantial inner dialogue instead of a constant repetition of action would have helped.
I think this novel will find a good consistent three-star "beach read" following, but it just felt a little too choppy and poorly executed for my tastes.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2019
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
While this book may seem like a fast and easy read, I suggest you take your time with it. The wisdom found in this book could save you a lot of trouble. The story is about a marriage counselor and his family. He is a successful author but is pressured into writing another book. He has trouble coming up with a new idea. While he struggles with this, his life, his family, and all those around him are spiraling out of control. This book deals with truth and how we handle it. Do you run from it? Try to hide the truth? Deny the truth? I love how the author uses the magic of the surreal to deliver his message. It draws you into the fantasy but leaves you thinking. His study questions at the end are not "homework" as he puts it. Rather suggestions for personal introspection. I look forward to his next book.
While this book may seem like a fast and easy read, I suggest you take your time with it. The wisdom found in this book could save you a lot of trouble. The story is about a marriage counselor and his family. He is a successful author but is pressured into writing another book. He has trouble coming up with a new idea. While he struggles with this, his life, his family, and all those around him are spiraling out of control. This book deals with truth and how we handle it. Do you run from it? Try to hide the truth? Deny the truth? I love how the author uses the magic of the surreal to deliver his message. It draws you into the fantasy but leaves you thinking. His study questions at the end are not "homework" as he puts it. Rather suggestions for personal introspection. I look forward to his next book.
December 8, 2019
The Camera Never Lies by David Rawlings is a powerful contemporary novel about the importance of truth and integrity. As with the previous novel, The Baggage Handler, this book has the potential to change lives if we would just apply the advice given.
The Bible declares that ‘the truth shall set you free’, why then is it sometimes so hard to do? “Truth cannot simply be avoided, covered up or ignored.” Do we prefer to hide the truth because of embarrassment? Or fear? Or something else? We must be truthful because lies and secrets will destroy us sooner or later.
The novel explores the foundations of life. Have we built our houses on the Rock or sinking sand? “I think I’d die if I lost that kitchen.” Really? If our treasure is in stuff, we are in trouble. Treasure is to be found in people and God.
A marriage in trouble has far reaching effects. We need honesty to rebuild the cracks or our relationships will crash. We cannot afford to ignore or push our problems under the carpet. We need to deal with them now. We need to look “through the lens of honesty.”
David Rawlings has created a very realistic and likable set of characters. They are easy to relate to with their problems and in their relationships. Any one of them could be me or you. The reader is able to see the trajectory of their lives if they do not talk honestly with each other. But first they need to admit the truth to themselves.
I think The Camera Never Lies and The Baggage Handler are both really powerful books urging us to look at our busy lives. “Busyness… had not brought life.” Do we need to change something in our lives or in our hearts so we bring life and not death to our lives and our relationships with others? We need clarity of vision. We need the lens of truth.
Thank you David Rawlings for writing such incredible books full of godly truths that both believers and nonbelievers would benefit from.
Both The Camera Never Lies and The Baggage Handler should be best sellers and timeless classics because they both serve as foundational footings in our lives.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
The Bible declares that ‘the truth shall set you free’, why then is it sometimes so hard to do? “Truth cannot simply be avoided, covered up or ignored.” Do we prefer to hide the truth because of embarrassment? Or fear? Or something else? We must be truthful because lies and secrets will destroy us sooner or later.
The novel explores the foundations of life. Have we built our houses on the Rock or sinking sand? “I think I’d die if I lost that kitchen.” Really? If our treasure is in stuff, we are in trouble. Treasure is to be found in people and God.
A marriage in trouble has far reaching effects. We need honesty to rebuild the cracks or our relationships will crash. We cannot afford to ignore or push our problems under the carpet. We need to deal with them now. We need to look “through the lens of honesty.”
David Rawlings has created a very realistic and likable set of characters. They are easy to relate to with their problems and in their relationships. Any one of them could be me or you. The reader is able to see the trajectory of their lives if they do not talk honestly with each other. But first they need to admit the truth to themselves.
I think The Camera Never Lies and The Baggage Handler are both really powerful books urging us to look at our busy lives. “Busyness… had not brought life.” Do we need to change something in our lives or in our hearts so we bring life and not death to our lives and our relationships with others? We need clarity of vision. We need the lens of truth.
Thank you David Rawlings for writing such incredible books full of godly truths that both believers and nonbelievers would benefit from.
Both The Camera Never Lies and The Baggage Handler should be best sellers and timeless classics because they both serve as foundational footings in our lives.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
April 4, 2020
I really enjoyed reading The Camera Never Lies by David Rawlings.
It's an intriguing philosophical story that really makes you think.
How many secrets do we all hold? What would we do if each and everyone of them was revealed to show our inner truths?
Could this really help us resolve them?
In The Camera Never Lies, Daniel is left a gift of an old, dusty suitcase which contains his Grandpa's Olympus HS-10 camera. It's heavy, black and silver, inscribed inside with 'No matter what you think you might see, The Camera Never Lies'.
What adventures and woes will follow at Simon's Film Lab with some old leftover film, a red book containing photos that could possibly lead to the 'truth' as The Camera Never Lies.
Simon's Film Lab swears it provides "greater clarity than you've ever had for those moments in life that matter the most".
What can and will the photos reveal?
You may be surprised at the answers.
I highly recommend this second novel, The Camera Never Lies by David Rawlings.
It's an intriguing philosophical story that really makes you think.
How many secrets do we all hold? What would we do if each and everyone of them was revealed to show our inner truths?
Could this really help us resolve them?
In The Camera Never Lies, Daniel is left a gift of an old, dusty suitcase which contains his Grandpa's Olympus HS-10 camera. It's heavy, black and silver, inscribed inside with 'No matter what you think you might see, The Camera Never Lies'.
What adventures and woes will follow at Simon's Film Lab with some old leftover film, a red book containing photos that could possibly lead to the 'truth' as The Camera Never Lies.
Simon's Film Lab swears it provides "greater clarity than you've ever had for those moments in life that matter the most".
What can and will the photos reveal?
You may be surprised at the answers.
I highly recommend this second novel, The Camera Never Lies by David Rawlings.
December 11, 2019
This book hit me more deeply than I would ever like to admit. It wasn't so much the storyline with the individual characters, because in all honesty I didn't really relate to them. I actually felt pretty distant from them, but maybe it's because of what I was really focusing on. The biggest takeaway from this novel was from what was learned from the camera. It's not just about keeping secrets from others--but refusing to see the truth ourselves. It's the hiding behind a smile because you don't want to deal with the hard feelings. It's the feelings you didn't even realize you had until you're confronted with the truth. And the hardest part of all of it is that you can't start to heal until you acknowledge the truth. This was a highly thought-provoking read that gets the reader to look at themselves and how they would handle the situations. Because here's the deal, whether or not you can relate personally to Daniel or his family throughout the read, you can still contemplate how you would feel and react when you are forced to be vulnerable, or a secret you've tried keeping is revealed, or truth is discovered that throws you for a loop, or any other number of circumstances that threaten your peace. I don't want to share too much because I don't want to be a spoiler but this was one powerful read that I know is going to stay with me for a very long time.
*I received a copy of this book through JustRead Tours. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
*I received a copy of this book through JustRead Tours. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
August 24, 2019
4 star
The Camera Never Lies by David Rawlings is a profoundly moving story. The camera is a bequest from Gramps after he passes away. It shows the whole truth of the lives of those whose pictures are taken. Rawlings has written an extraordinary book that grabs you from the first page and doesn’t let go. I have never read another book quite like this, which considering how many books I have read is astounding!
The only negative aspect of this book is the length. It is quite a short book so it doesn’t allow for as much character development as longer books do. Everything just wraps of too neatly at the end leaving the reader to make a number of assumptions.
The flaws are more than made up for in the quality of the book, so I highly recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. The views given are my own.
The Camera Never Lies by David Rawlings is a profoundly moving story. The camera is a bequest from Gramps after he passes away. It shows the whole truth of the lives of those whose pictures are taken. Rawlings has written an extraordinary book that grabs you from the first page and doesn’t let go. I have never read another book quite like this, which considering how many books I have read is astounding!
The only negative aspect of this book is the length. It is quite a short book so it doesn’t allow for as much character development as longer books do. Everything just wraps of too neatly at the end leaving the reader to make a number of assumptions.
The flaws are more than made up for in the quality of the book, so I highly recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. The views given are my own.
August 19, 2019
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
From beginning to end I was intrigued with this book. David Rawlings took a new and unique approach in asking the reader what if cameras captured whats in our soul instead of what we see with our eyes because in this book, Rawlings plays around with what is in our eyes and things might not always be as we see them but when they are shot with a camera, they never lie. This is the first time I have read a book and have been taught a valuable lesson at the same time. I have read many books with strong themes and captivating messages but none that have really stuck with me as The Camera Never Lies. I know our patrons will be very fond of this book and will want to read it right away and I can't wait to share it with them.
We will consider adding this title to our Adult Fiction collection at our library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.
From beginning to end I was intrigued with this book. David Rawlings took a new and unique approach in asking the reader what if cameras captured whats in our soul instead of what we see with our eyes because in this book, Rawlings plays around with what is in our eyes and things might not always be as we see them but when they are shot with a camera, they never lie. This is the first time I have read a book and have been taught a valuable lesson at the same time. I have read many books with strong themes and captivating messages but none that have really stuck with me as The Camera Never Lies. I know our patrons will be very fond of this book and will want to read it right away and I can't wait to share it with them.
We will consider adding this title to our Adult Fiction collection at our library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.
November 23, 2019
This novel explores the importance of facing the truth of your life/actions, whether you want to or not. The author employs a magical camera as the vehicle for this morality tale, so you have to suspend your disbelief to get through the story. The writing was pretty good, but I felt that the moral of the story was extremely obvious and a bit heavy-handed. I did enjoy the reactions of people to someone using an actual camera with actual film, versus the digital world we are generally in these days.
Many thank to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
Many thank to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 6, 2019
Daniel Whitely ia a successful marriage counselor, an author of a best-selling book, and he, his wife, and twelve-year old daughter should be living the dream. Instead, their family seems to be falling apart. When his grandfather dies and leaves him a letter, a photo album, and the camera that he had used to take so many pictures, Daniel finds himself unnerved by what the pictures show. He discovers that Gramp's older camera is extraordinary because it produces final photographs that are nothing like the original shot. Was someone doctoring the photos? Was it a magical camera, able to project the true feelings of the person being photographed? Over and over, Daniel is told that ''the camera never lies". As he seeks answers an eccentric character named Simon reminds Daniel that "The camera reveals how our lives truly are. We can't trick it, even if sometimes we think we can trick ourselves and everyone around us."
I found this book to be very intriguing and I wondered what my photograph would show if this camera was used to take my picture! The Camera Never Lies is a reminder that we often keep secrets to avoid pain or embarassment but these secrets can destroy our lives and the truth needs to be made known. It doesn't have a strong spiritual presence in the plot but author David Rawlings does convey in his story the need for honesty and he mentions the consequences and dangers of alcohol abuse, addiction, and acting on physical attraction.
If you are looking for an entertaining story that will also make you think, you will want to read The Camera Never Lies.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley but I wasn't obligated to write a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
I found this book to be very intriguing and I wondered what my photograph would show if this camera was used to take my picture! The Camera Never Lies is a reminder that we often keep secrets to avoid pain or embarassment but these secrets can destroy our lives and the truth needs to be made known. It doesn't have a strong spiritual presence in the plot but author David Rawlings does convey in his story the need for honesty and he mentions the consequences and dangers of alcohol abuse, addiction, and acting on physical attraction.
If you are looking for an entertaining story that will also make you think, you will want to read The Camera Never Lies.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley but I wasn't obligated to write a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
December 31, 2019
4.5 stars
What happens when you are faced with your own secrets? What happens when those secrets threaten everything you know and love?
There is a lot to unpack in The Camera Never Lies and I would rather you read it for yourself and see what ‘truths’ come to your mind.
Daniel touts the line “No Secrets” but he’s carrying around a heap of secrets, as are his wife and daughter.
A hard-hitting novel full of truths and a touch of the speculative, which showcases the power of secrets and what they can cost us.
David Rawlings writing style and prose are right up my alley. He’s not afraid to dig deep and show readers some hard truth wrapped up in a beautiful literary work.
Not everyone will enjoy the speculative side, but I loved every aspect of the camera, the film shop, the characters, everything. Daniel, Kelly, and Milly were real, raw, and hurting. They needed each other but were so afraid of someone learning their secrets they pulled away instead of pulling together.
Writing a story about a marriage counselor who’s own marriage is failing might seem a bit on-the-nose, but having that familiarity allowed me to engage more with what wasn’t being said than what Daniel kept projecting through voice and language.
Needless to say, I loved this novel. At times, it was hard to like Daniel. The author played heavily on Kelly’s insecurities and added a troubled daughter to an already unstable dynamic. But everything worked. The characters fed on each other’s guilt and problems while trying to cover their own in a realistic view of how life can fall apart when we leave God out of the equation.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own
What happens when you are faced with your own secrets? What happens when those secrets threaten everything you know and love?
There is a lot to unpack in The Camera Never Lies and I would rather you read it for yourself and see what ‘truths’ come to your mind.
Daniel touts the line “No Secrets” but he’s carrying around a heap of secrets, as are his wife and daughter.
A hard-hitting novel full of truths and a touch of the speculative, which showcases the power of secrets and what they can cost us.
David Rawlings writing style and prose are right up my alley. He’s not afraid to dig deep and show readers some hard truth wrapped up in a beautiful literary work.
Not everyone will enjoy the speculative side, but I loved every aspect of the camera, the film shop, the characters, everything. Daniel, Kelly, and Milly were real, raw, and hurting. They needed each other but were so afraid of someone learning their secrets they pulled away instead of pulling together.
Writing a story about a marriage counselor who’s own marriage is failing might seem a bit on-the-nose, but having that familiarity allowed me to engage more with what wasn’t being said than what Daniel kept projecting through voice and language.
Needless to say, I loved this novel. At times, it was hard to like Daniel. The author played heavily on Kelly’s insecurities and added a troubled daughter to an already unstable dynamic. But everything worked. The characters fed on each other’s guilt and problems while trying to cover their own in a realistic view of how life can fall apart when we leave God out of the equation.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own
December 19, 2019
David Rawlings does it again! He creates a book that is so relatable to any reader, I feel anyone could pick it up and connect after reading it in some way. He gives us just enough of the fantastical to give it an unexpected twist, and uses that twist to give us a very real and raw look at something we can all relate to. In this book we get a family wrapped up in the American dream, and how the camera shows the stark reality of each other's secrets that are tearing them apart at the seams. The book is seamless, and is impossible to put down once you start reading. The contemporary nature of it is spot on in language and backdrop. The faith message is not overbearing, but nonetheless unforgettable. This book as well as his previous both are great for the non-reader and would check the boxes for any type reader. If you haven't read David Rawlings, you need to pick up a copy of The Camera Never Lies today!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own.
December 5, 2019
This was a very interesting story with many life lessons and some magical elements thrown in.
The story revolves around Daniel, a marriage counselor who is struggling in his own marriage. He has just received a camera from his grandfather, who passed away, and quickly finds out that "the camera never lies".
There are great themes weaved throughout the story, the main one being honesty. Sometimes honesty is difficult but it is very important (as Daniel quickly discovers).
This book raised a lot of moral questions and scenarios that I caused me to consider for my own life (what would I do?) and I am still thinking about it after I've finished reading it. The story is very clean and the content is appropriate.
I highly recommend this story.
I received this book from the publisher/author to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The story revolves around Daniel, a marriage counselor who is struggling in his own marriage. He has just received a camera from his grandfather, who passed away, and quickly finds out that "the camera never lies".
There are great themes weaved throughout the story, the main one being honesty. Sometimes honesty is difficult but it is very important (as Daniel quickly discovers).
This book raised a lot of moral questions and scenarios that I caused me to consider for my own life (what would I do?) and I am still thinking about it after I've finished reading it. The story is very clean and the content is appropriate.
I highly recommend this story.
I received this book from the publisher/author to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 6, 2019
David Rawlings takes a simple idea of an antique camera and secrets to create an engrossing story that had me not wanting to stop reading and never wanting the book to end. Which is a double-edged sword for a reader. I wanted to know what was going on with the pictures yet I was so captivated by the story I wanted to stay in the world of Daniel, Kelly, and Milly.
This will be on my top reads list for the year. When an author keeps me that engrossed it's definitely a winner! I highly recommend this book!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via the publisher. I was not required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This will be on my top reads list for the year. When an author keeps me that engrossed it's definitely a winner! I highly recommend this book!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via the publisher. I was not required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 1, 2020
This one is a tough one to review. The idea of it was cool and the underlying message was good but the execution in my opinion was poor.
I felt like I was reading the same thing over and over again. Not much happened and yet it managed to drag on for so long.
Daniel was a horrible character and so self absorbed I was really just hoping Kelly would leave him the whole time.
I honestly feel like I will have forgotten about this book in a week which is sad because like I said the underlying message was good and important but it wasnt done in a memorable way.
Thanks to netgalley for arc in exchange for honest review
I felt like I was reading the same thing over and over again. Not much happened and yet it managed to drag on for so long.
Daniel was a horrible character and so self absorbed I was really just hoping Kelly would leave him the whole time.
I honestly feel like I will have forgotten about this book in a week which is sad because like I said the underlying message was good and important but it wasnt done in a memorable way.
Thanks to netgalley for arc in exchange for honest review
January 19, 2020
I just felt like it was some Christian book about staying married.
December 5, 2022
Received a finished copy from the publisher.
Yet again, David Rawlings has written such a superb novel all about truth and living in it. I enjoyed this story and the depths of the relationships within it. The writing and transparency within this novel had me feeling so many emotions.
The story follows Daniel, Kelly and Milly. A family that should be happy and content by the worlds standards, but they are falling apart in so many ways. Each is holding back the truth of their emotions and feelings and living a lie. Each is keeping a secret while drowning internally.
Daniel is a successful marriage counselor and author, but he is so consumed with his work life that he can't see his family falling apart. Daniel was the epitome of a person being caught up in titles and not really seeing their life for what it is. I wanted to pop him in the forehead several times throughout the book!
Kelly is a mother that is broken and at her end. She is battling within herself with her husband, her role as a mother and her job. She wants to make things better but feels like control is slipping. I felt bad for Kelly. Sometimes I wanted to just hug her.
Milly is a daughter that wants nothing but her parents loving one another. She made me cry through the whole book. She was such a sweet girl that was broken by her parents issues. I felt so sad for her and the desperate cries she gave.
Simon, the mysterious photography man that loved bring the truth to the forefront. I loved him from start to finish. He was a wild character that defintiely added to the story. Anna and Peter were awesome. Jasmine annoyed me and Monique FRUSTRATED me to no end.
Overall, this was a beautiful story that touched on some good faith points. I believe this is a book that many should read and share with others. This is a great read for both believers and non-believers of Jesus Christ.
Highly recommend.
Trigger Warnings: sick children, talk of suicide and infidelity, lies from a business.
Yet again, David Rawlings has written such a superb novel all about truth and living in it. I enjoyed this story and the depths of the relationships within it. The writing and transparency within this novel had me feeling so many emotions.
The story follows Daniel, Kelly and Milly. A family that should be happy and content by the worlds standards, but they are falling apart in so many ways. Each is holding back the truth of their emotions and feelings and living a lie. Each is keeping a secret while drowning internally.
Daniel is a successful marriage counselor and author, but he is so consumed with his work life that he can't see his family falling apart. Daniel was the epitome of a person being caught up in titles and not really seeing their life for what it is. I wanted to pop him in the forehead several times throughout the book!
Kelly is a mother that is broken and at her end. She is battling within herself with her husband, her role as a mother and her job. She wants to make things better but feels like control is slipping. I felt bad for Kelly. Sometimes I wanted to just hug her.
Milly is a daughter that wants nothing but her parents loving one another. She made me cry through the whole book. She was such a sweet girl that was broken by her parents issues. I felt so sad for her and the desperate cries she gave.
Simon, the mysterious photography man that loved bring the truth to the forefront. I loved him from start to finish. He was a wild character that defintiely added to the story. Anna and Peter were awesome. Jasmine annoyed me and Monique FRUSTRATED me to no end.
Overall, this was a beautiful story that touched on some good faith points. I believe this is a book that many should read and share with others. This is a great read for both believers and non-believers of Jesus Christ.
Highly recommend.
Trigger Warnings: sick children, talk of suicide and infidelity, lies from a business.
Want to read
January 2, 2020I've never read this author before but I really liked this book. You don't have to like the characters or connect with them to enjoy a book.
This really is a well written story with flawed characters of all sorts including Daniel and his family.
In my opinion the camera was really the main character or thing that this story focused on.
For cameras never do lie. And if given the chance they can also ruin people's lives. Especially if they're keeping secrets from their loved ones.
Daniel is the perfect example in my opinion. Before trying to fix someone else he should sit back and examine his own.
I couldn't stand Monique. I really wanted to strangle her. I didn't appreciate at what she was trying to do. I found myself hollering at her to stop. But of course she didn't listen lol.
Another thing about this I noticed was no mention of any messages of Faith. This is the second book I have read like that.
As I was reading this book I kept wondering when the truth would come out and how will these characters act when it does finally come out?
This book is filled with all kinds of emotions and it's certainly a rollercoaster ride for sure.
There will be some characters in here that you won't care for. At least it was that way for me.
I gave this book 4 stars because as I said I didn't see anything about faith.
My thanks to Netgalley. NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.
This book in my opinion is another can't put down book until you finish it.
This really is a well written story with flawed characters of all sorts including Daniel and his family.
In my opinion the camera was really the main character or thing that this story focused on.
For cameras never do lie. And if given the chance they can also ruin people's lives. Especially if they're keeping secrets from their loved ones.
Daniel is the perfect example in my opinion. Before trying to fix someone else he should sit back and examine his own.
I couldn't stand Monique. I really wanted to strangle her. I didn't appreciate at what she was trying to do. I found myself hollering at her to stop. But of course she didn't listen lol.
Another thing about this I noticed was no mention of any messages of Faith. This is the second book I have read like that.
As I was reading this book I kept wondering when the truth would come out and how will these characters act when it does finally come out?
This book is filled with all kinds of emotions and it's certainly a rollercoaster ride for sure.
There will be some characters in here that you won't care for. At least it was that way for me.
I gave this book 4 stars because as I said I didn't see anything about faith.
My thanks to Netgalley. NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.
This book in my opinion is another can't put down book until you finish it.
December 14, 2019
This book was intriguing. Daniel, a counselor, and his wife Kelly, a pharmaceutical sales rep, both are hiding secrets from each other and the world around them. All families have problems, and Daniel is just chalking theirs up to stresses of daily life. However, when his grandfather passes away, and he inherits the old camera his grandfather owned, his viewpoint is altered. It's very interesting how the camera took pictures of what was going on in their hearts and not the outward appearance. As Daniel takes pictures, truth is revealed and it's not what he wants to see. Now, he is faced with a dilemma. He can deny the truth and continue down the path he's on, or face the truth and do something about it.
I think you will enjoy this read. It is a relatively short, easy read that flows smoothly and subtly incorporates truth and faith into the plot. I wouldn't say its overtly Christian, just mysteriously so... Their an air of mystery, and some supernatural elements, that keep it interesting.
I received this book from the publisher and Celebrate lit for tour participation. I was not asked to review this book positively and all opinions are my own.
I think you will enjoy this read. It is a relatively short, easy read that flows smoothly and subtly incorporates truth and faith into the plot. I wouldn't say its overtly Christian, just mysteriously so... Their an air of mystery, and some supernatural elements, that keep it interesting.
I received this book from the publisher and Celebrate lit for tour participation. I was not asked to review this book positively and all opinions are my own.
December 7, 2019
In his sophomore release, David Rawlings once again challenges readers to hold up a mirror and take stock of what’s happening in their lives.
When he inherits a camera from his grandfather, Daniel Whitely has no idea of the upheaval it will cause in his life because, as the title states, the camera never lies. The photographs taken with this camera wash away the professional, personal, and relational facades so carefully put in place by Daniel and his family. Those photos reveal long-held secrets and some truths the characters haven’t yet acknowledged.
While I would have liked to read about some of the aftermath in the lives of the Whitley’s once their truths were brought to light, The Camera Never Lies challenged me to reflect on whether I am hiding anything in my own life.
I look forward to watching Rawlings’ growth and the ways he challenges me in books to come.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
When he inherits a camera from his grandfather, Daniel Whitely has no idea of the upheaval it will cause in his life because, as the title states, the camera never lies. The photographs taken with this camera wash away the professional, personal, and relational facades so carefully put in place by Daniel and his family. Those photos reveal long-held secrets and some truths the characters haven’t yet acknowledged.
While I would have liked to read about some of the aftermath in the lives of the Whitley’s once their truths were brought to light, The Camera Never Lies challenged me to reflect on whether I am hiding anything in my own life.
I look forward to watching Rawlings’ growth and the ways he challenges me in books to come.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
November 25, 2019
Daniel is surprised and (to be honest) a little creeped out when he realizes that the photos he takes with his grandfather's camera show what the subject feels (go with the idea) more than their physical representation. He's been struggling lately-he's a marriage counselor who wrote a successful book but now has writers block and is unable to deliver his second book. He's also got marriage problems of his own, in part because of the secrets he's kept about himself as well as the lies he's told. His wife Kelly is currently selling pharmaceuticals but wants to open a catering company. His daughter Milly is 12 with all the issues of a 12 year old girl. This is really about how these three make their way back to each other. It also asks you to think about what you value most. Thanks to the publisher for the ARC.
December 18, 2019
David Rawlings, author of The Baggage Handler, returns with another probing story: what would you do if your secrets were revealed to those around you?
Daniel Whiteley is a successful couples counselor who regularly puts families back together, helping them face up to the things in life they hide. But his own marriage is falling apart.
His wife, Kelly, knows Daniel is hiding something from her, but she doesn’t dare probe for fear her own secrets will be revealed.
When his grandfather dies, Daniel inherits an old SLR camera from a time when cameras pointed away from the person taking the photograph. On the camera is an inscription: “Use this camera wisely and remember, regardless of the picture you think you took, the camera never lies.”
When Daniel first uses his new camera he finds someone has already filled the roll of film. Annoyed, he processes the film and finds photos of a secret that he’s been hiding from his wife and daughter.
He has no idea who took them.
Now every time he uses the camera, the photographs reveal another secret about himself the he is desperate to keep-as well as those of his wife, which he is desperate to uncover.
My Thoughts: This is a thought-provoking book that the reader will be unable to put down. The author David Rawlings has written a story that deals with the results of having secrets in our lives. Every untruth we have will affect us or someone close to us in one way or another. In this book we see how secrets affect a family. The author has a unique way of telling the story. It keeps the reader spellbound and entertained.
The characters are easily identified with by the reader; the author has a way of drawing the reader in wanting to keep reading until the end of the book. This is the second book I have read by the author and I look forward to reading more from David Rawlings.
Daniel Whiteley is a successful couples counselor who regularly puts families back together, helping them face up to the things in life they hide. But his own marriage is falling apart.
His wife, Kelly, knows Daniel is hiding something from her, but she doesn’t dare probe for fear her own secrets will be revealed.
When his grandfather dies, Daniel inherits an old SLR camera from a time when cameras pointed away from the person taking the photograph. On the camera is an inscription: “Use this camera wisely and remember, regardless of the picture you think you took, the camera never lies.”
When Daniel first uses his new camera he finds someone has already filled the roll of film. Annoyed, he processes the film and finds photos of a secret that he’s been hiding from his wife and daughter.
He has no idea who took them.
Now every time he uses the camera, the photographs reveal another secret about himself the he is desperate to keep-as well as those of his wife, which he is desperate to uncover.
My Thoughts: This is a thought-provoking book that the reader will be unable to put down. The author David Rawlings has written a story that deals with the results of having secrets in our lives. Every untruth we have will affect us or someone close to us in one way or another. In this book we see how secrets affect a family. The author has a unique way of telling the story. It keeps the reader spellbound and entertained.
The characters are easily identified with by the reader; the author has a way of drawing the reader in wanting to keep reading until the end of the book. This is the second book I have read by the author and I look forward to reading more from David Rawlings.
December 7, 2019
The main theme of this book showcases how keeping secrets affect not only the person keeping them but also those around them. Also the importance of truth and honesty in marriage. This is the kind of book you'll want to take you time reading through as it has a great deal of depth within its pages. All woven together with a magical aspect.
I personally enjoy magical/supernatural stories that are clean and have a bit of meaningful depth to them.(There's honestly not enough of them). Entertaining and well written, this is a story will boost you mood.
I personally enjoy magical/supernatural stories that are clean and have a bit of meaningful depth to them.(There's honestly not enough of them). Entertaining and well written, this is a story will boost you mood.
December 25, 2019
This was one of the most interesting stories that I've read in awhile.
It's so interesting that a picture does tell a thousand words about us. So the camera never lies giving us all a new look at how our lives are being played out right before us in pictures.
Daniel Whitely inherits a camera and as he takes pictures and has them developed he begins to notice that his life is played out right before his eyes.
He also begins to see that he, his wife and daughter do not have the perfect life as they thought they did. The camera, the pictures and life begin to tell Daniel that he is a fraud.
On the other hand, Daniel begins to see what is really important in life.
This book drew me in and let me glimpse at what a world through a camera lens might display.
What a story!
*This book was provided for review by The Fiction Guild*
It's so interesting that a picture does tell a thousand words about us. So the camera never lies giving us all a new look at how our lives are being played out right before us in pictures.
Daniel Whitely inherits a camera and as he takes pictures and has them developed he begins to notice that his life is played out right before his eyes.
He also begins to see that he, his wife and daughter do not have the perfect life as they thought they did. The camera, the pictures and life begin to tell Daniel that he is a fraud.
On the other hand, Daniel begins to see what is really important in life.
This book drew me in and let me glimpse at what a world through a camera lens might display.
What a story!
*This book was provided for review by The Fiction Guild*
December 3, 2019
What happens when the photos you take reveal more than you want? We all hide things but what if we couldn't how would we live? This is the story of someone who is not ready to look at the truth but slowly has no choice but to do that. I loved the story but also made you pause and think about what photos the camera would show of my life.
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