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Her Mother's Lies
What if the person you trust most in the world, has been lying to you for your whole life?
Martha would do anything for her devoted mother, Fran. Now in her mid-twenties, Martha still lives with her in their remote, pretty cottage in the Cornish countryside. Fran paints illustrations, while Martha trains to be an animal nurse.
But then Martha sees a strange message on her mother’s phone – apparently from her estranged father.
He had been there for her first steps. He’d helped with her homework, and taken her for ice cream at weekends. And then, two days before her ninth birthday, he walked out. She never knew what went wrong, and she and Fran never heard from him again.
Desperate for answers, she tracks him down. But when they come face-to-face, she isn’t ready for the brutal truth.
Closing his eyes he says, ‘She hasn’t told you, has she? I’m not your father.’
Her mother has been telling lies.
And not just about who her real father is…
A page-turning, gripping psychological thriller for fans of Paula Hawkins, Shalini Boland, and C. L. Taylor.
Martha would do anything for her devoted mother, Fran. Now in her mid-twenties, Martha still lives with her in their remote, pretty cottage in the Cornish countryside. Fran paints illustrations, while Martha trains to be an animal nurse.
But then Martha sees a strange message on her mother’s phone – apparently from her estranged father.
He had been there for her first steps. He’d helped with her homework, and taken her for ice cream at weekends. And then, two days before her ninth birthday, he walked out. She never knew what went wrong, and she and Fran never heard from him again.
Desperate for answers, she tracks him down. But when they come face-to-face, she isn’t ready for the brutal truth.
Closing his eyes he says, ‘She hasn’t told you, has she? I’m not your father.’
Her mother has been telling lies.
And not just about who her real father is…
A page-turning, gripping psychological thriller for fans of Paula Hawkins, Shalini Boland, and C. L. Taylor.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 23, 2019
1199 people are currently reading
1829 people want to read
About the author
Rona Halsall
20 books530 followersRona is the #1 best selling author of twisty psychological thrillers and loves to create mayhem in her characters' lives to keep her readers guessing. She lives halfway up a mountain in Snowdonia, North Wales with her three dogs - Maid, Evie and Sandy who are the writing support team.
She is an outdoorsy person, who loves nothing better than stomping up a mountain, and wandering round forests and woodlands while she's plotting her next book. Outside is where the ideas are!
The peak of her writing career was being short-listed for the International Thriller Writers Awards 2024, for THE BIGAMIST. The translation was also shortlisted for an award in Holland.
For the latest news and information on all her books you can check out her website: https://ronahalsall.org/
You can also sign up to her newsletter here:
https://bit.ly/RonaHalsallNews
Also...If you follow her Author page on Amazon, you'll get notifications when a new book is out. You can have a look here:
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Go on... hit that Follow button!
She is an outdoorsy person, who loves nothing better than stomping up a mountain, and wandering round forests and woodlands while she's plotting her next book. Outside is where the ideas are!
The peak of her writing career was being short-listed for the International Thriller Writers Awards 2024, for THE BIGAMIST. The translation was also shortlisted for an award in Holland.
For the latest news and information on all her books you can check out her website: https://ronahalsall.org/
You can also sign up to her newsletter here:
https://bit.ly/RonaHalsallNews
Also...If you follow her Author page on Amazon, you'll get notifications when a new book is out. You can have a look here:
UK - https://tinyurl.com/yfk4ydyt
US - https://tinyurl.com/26cwfkc7
Go on... hit that Follow button!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
September 2, 2020
Suspense, done very well
Sometimes you look at a title after reading a book and wonder where the title ‘fits in’, this one is 100% right!!
Martha lives with her Mum Fran in a remote area of Cornwall, very cut off, very private and for Martha quite restrictive
Enter Izzy, via Martha’s love of dogs and job at the local vets, they form a friendship and Izzy helps Martha come to terms with some shocking events and news
Izzy seems too good to be true, a beacon of light in Martha’s ever troubling world, along with sensible reliable Anna, life long family friend and neighbour Martha will get through the seemingly never ending problems
Poor Martha, her troubles are only really just beginning
A superb tale of lies, deceit, wrong footed trust and past’s everyone wants to keep firmly buried
Good characters, great settings and descriptions of Cornwall with a nod to Leeds and Bingley make a true page turner that was unpredictable, tense and enjoyable
10/10
5 Stars
October 17, 2019
Martha and her mum, Fran do not have the best relationship. Fran likes a drink and she's also diabetic. She also tells lies. Martha's dad had walked out on them when she was a young girl. Martha decides to try and find him. Except when she does find him, he tells her that he's not her dad. Her mothers been lying to her.
I was hooked from the first page. There are so many twists waiting to be unravelled. The story is told from Martha and Frans perspectives in alternating chapters. There are lies and betrayals which soon start to unfold. Eventually Fran has to tell the truth. The characters are well rounded. The plotline is believable. I was shocked at what happened ut I had to keep reading. The pace is slow to start with but it does pick up speed. I did guess some of the story correctly. Rona Halsall certainly knows how to draw you in and keep your attention till the end.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Rona Halsall for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was hooked from the first page. There are so many twists waiting to be unravelled. The story is told from Martha and Frans perspectives in alternating chapters. There are lies and betrayals which soon start to unfold. Eventually Fran has to tell the truth. The characters are well rounded. The plotline is believable. I was shocked at what happened ut I had to keep reading. The pace is slow to start with but it does pick up speed. I did guess some of the story correctly. Rona Halsall certainly knows how to draw you in and keep your attention till the end.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Rona Halsall for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2021
Another gripping psychological thriller by author Rona Halsall who manages to keep writing addictive plots that I find difficult to put down.
Martha who is now in her mid twenties lives in a remote cottage in the Cornish countryside with her mother Fran who paints illustrations. Martha notices a message on her mothers phone which appears to be off Martha’s estranged father. Her father walked out of the family home two days before her ninth birthday, no explanations, no goodbyes and she and Fran never heard from him again.
Martha feels she need answers to all the questions she keeps in her head and manages to track down her father. The problem is when she confronts him she is given answers that only make things harder to come to terms with. The man she believed was her father tells her mother Fran had lied and he was not her father after all.
I enjoyed this one, good characters, well written and a plot full of suspense.
Martha who is now in her mid twenties lives in a remote cottage in the Cornish countryside with her mother Fran who paints illustrations. Martha notices a message on her mothers phone which appears to be off Martha’s estranged father. Her father walked out of the family home two days before her ninth birthday, no explanations, no goodbyes and she and Fran never heard from him again.
Martha feels she need answers to all the questions she keeps in her head and manages to track down her father. The problem is when she confronts him she is given answers that only make things harder to come to terms with. The man she believed was her father tells her mother Fran had lied and he was not her father after all.
I enjoyed this one, good characters, well written and a plot full of suspense.
October 17, 2019
Martha's father walked out on her right before her 9th Birthday and he never looked back. She has been very hurt. It is now 15 years later and she is still living with her mom, who is an alcoholic and has diabetes and they are in dire straights of losing everything because of finances. Martha's boss died
unexpectedly so she now has to go job hunting. Her mom becomes ill and Martha decides to finally find her father and talk to him. Only to have her whole world blown apart. This is a psychological thriller of finding out truths that have been held from Martha on so many levels. Martha turns to a friend, Izzy, who she only knew outside of her home. Martha's mother, Fran has kept her a recluse all of her life and has kept her on a short chain. I really wanted to tell Martha to run. She is not the adult of her mom but her own adult now and to go do what she wants with her life.Then you have Anna who has always been there for Fran and helped her out whenever she has needed it.
I only felt bad for Martha as her mom kept such a tight rein on her but once Martha was old enough she could have left and had her own life. I never felt bad for Fran as she reaped what she sowed.
I received this ARC from Bookouture and NetGalley.
unexpectedly so she now has to go job hunting. Her mom becomes ill and Martha decides to finally find her father and talk to him. Only to have her whole world blown apart. This is a psychological thriller of finding out truths that have been held from Martha on so many levels. Martha turns to a friend, Izzy, who she only knew outside of her home. Martha's mother, Fran has kept her a recluse all of her life and has kept her on a short chain. I really wanted to tell Martha to run. She is not the adult of her mom but her own adult now and to go do what she wants with her life.Then you have Anna who has always been there for Fran and helped her out whenever she has needed it.
I only felt bad for Martha as her mom kept such a tight rein on her but once Martha was old enough she could have left and had her own life. I never felt bad for Fran as she reaped what she sowed.
I received this ARC from Bookouture and NetGalley.
June 17, 2025
Training to be a veterinary nurse, twenty-something Martha lives with her mum, Fran, in their remote, cottage in the Cornish countryside and will do anything for her. Fran spend her time painting illustrations. One day, Martha sees a strange message on her mother’s phone, apparently from her estranged father.
Following a series of very traumatic events, one of which was the sudden death or her boss at the vets where she works and a downturn in the general health of Fran who suffers from alcoholism, Martha searches for her long-lost father, Greg and find out why he just disappeared from their lives. Greg deserted them both fifteen years ago when Martha was a nine-year-old. When Martha catches up with him in Wales, he makes a shattering revelation. He is not her father. Martha is determined to find out what exactly her mother has been hiding from her and with help from her friend, Izzy, Martha sets out to reveal the truth.
Following a series of very traumatic events, one of which was the sudden death or her boss at the vets where she works and a downturn in the general health of Fran who suffers from alcoholism, Martha searches for her long-lost father, Greg and find out why he just disappeared from their lives. Greg deserted them both fifteen years ago when Martha was a nine-year-old. When Martha catches up with him in Wales, he makes a shattering revelation. He is not her father. Martha is determined to find out what exactly her mother has been hiding from her and with help from her friend, Izzy, Martha sets out to reveal the truth.
October 25, 2019
Her Mother's Lies is a well-plotted story about a young woman who discovers that her mother has been lying and keeping secrets from her. It's a twisty tale of family secrets, deceit, and the lengths a mother can go to to protect her child. This book is set in the Cornish countryside and is told from the perspectives of Martha and her mother Fran. The plot was intriguing and provided just the right amount of tension and suspense to keep me guessing. The characters were complex and interesting. Martha was the only likable character in my opinion. My heart really went out to her for having to put up with such a selfish, toxic mother like Fran. The last few chapters were action-packed and full of twists and turns. Overall, I really liked this book and will read more by this author. If you like thrillers with family drama and dysfunctional families then this is the book for you. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 25, 2019
Wow and wow again. Rona Halsall has done it again. Her Mother's Lies is a fast paced roller coaster ride that is packed full of so many twists and turns that by the time you reach the final twist,you are left feeling so dizzy that all you want to do is lie down in a dark room for a few hours or until your head stops spinning.
This is the enthralling story of three diverse women Martha,her mother Fran and Martha's best friend Izzy. The story is set in the present day but also has fingers that reached back into the past. It's a story of multiple deceptions,lies,manipulations and how decisions made in the past can have repercussions in the present.
Martha's life is shattered into a millions pieces when she finds a text from her estranged father,Greg on her mother's mobile. Her father walked out on Martha and her mother when Martha was nine years old and Fran has always insisted that she has never had any contact with him. Martha never got over her father leaving and is determined to find out why he abandoned her. Only when she does track him down,he tells her that he is not her father.
So is Greg telling the truth and if he is then who is Martha's father? If Fran can lie about her father's identity then what else would she be prepared to lie about?
Poor unlucky Martha must have broken a whole factory`s worth of mirrors at some point because her life was just one long struggle to get through each day.Pete,her boss and dear friend at the veterinary surgery where she worked had just died. She was stuck living in a run down cottage in the middle of nowhere with her alcoholic mother with whom she had a very acrimonious relashionship. At least she could share her problems and get advice from her best friend Izzy and lovely Anna next door. So it was quite understandable that Martha was a mixed bag of emotions,prone to flashes of temper and indecisiveness.
Appearances can be deceptive,people are not always who they appear to be as Martha learns in this twisty,unputdownable thriller that had me hooked in from the first page,totally entranced by the tightly plotted,gripping story that was unfolding as I frantically turned the pages.The characters were realistic and vivid,the story was packed full of red herrings,misdirections and had one hell of unexpected jaw dropping twist.I love Rona Halsall`s amazing thrillers,she really is a consistently talented author. Well worth far more than five stars and very very highly recommended.This book is definitely going to be on my list of my favourite reads of this year.
Many many thanks to Noelle Holten and Bookouture for a arc of this book via netgalley and the opportunity to take part in the Blog tour
This is the enthralling story of three diverse women Martha,her mother Fran and Martha's best friend Izzy. The story is set in the present day but also has fingers that reached back into the past. It's a story of multiple deceptions,lies,manipulations and how decisions made in the past can have repercussions in the present.
Martha's life is shattered into a millions pieces when she finds a text from her estranged father,Greg on her mother's mobile. Her father walked out on Martha and her mother when Martha was nine years old and Fran has always insisted that she has never had any contact with him. Martha never got over her father leaving and is determined to find out why he abandoned her. Only when she does track him down,he tells her that he is not her father.
So is Greg telling the truth and if he is then who is Martha's father? If Fran can lie about her father's identity then what else would she be prepared to lie about?
Poor unlucky Martha must have broken a whole factory`s worth of mirrors at some point because her life was just one long struggle to get through each day.Pete,her boss and dear friend at the veterinary surgery where she worked had just died. She was stuck living in a run down cottage in the middle of nowhere with her alcoholic mother with whom she had a very acrimonious relashionship. At least she could share her problems and get advice from her best friend Izzy and lovely Anna next door. So it was quite understandable that Martha was a mixed bag of emotions,prone to flashes of temper and indecisiveness.
Appearances can be deceptive,people are not always who they appear to be as Martha learns in this twisty,unputdownable thriller that had me hooked in from the first page,totally entranced by the tightly plotted,gripping story that was unfolding as I frantically turned the pages.The characters were realistic and vivid,the story was packed full of red herrings,misdirections and had one hell of unexpected jaw dropping twist.I love Rona Halsall`s amazing thrillers,she really is a consistently talented author. Well worth far more than five stars and very very highly recommended.This book is definitely going to be on my list of my favourite reads of this year.
Many many thanks to Noelle Holten and Bookouture for a arc of this book via netgalley and the opportunity to take part in the Blog tour
October 23, 2019
I have read all Rona’s books and loved them, and I looked forward to when her new book comes out. I was a bit apprehensive at first, as I found this book quite slow to start with but, I am glad I persevered.
Martha lives with her mother Fran in desolate corner of Cornwall. Their relationship is not the best at times. Her mother is a diabetic and swarming in debt and poor Martha works all the time. Her father Greg abandoned her 15 years ago. Never to be seen again. The only other person they see is their neighbour Anna who is a writer and Fran draws illustrations for. For payment of living in the house as it is owned by Anna. But when Fran gets ill and ends up in hospital. Secrets about Martha’s past life is revealed, and others are not telling the truth.
I thank NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of this book. I Love Rona’s book but, this one I found hard to get into and hard to like the characters. Yes, it had a great story how far a mother will go to protect her child. This book is fall of twists and turns and secrets and lies and the full picture didn’t come to the very end. But it was tough going. 3.5 stars from me.
Martha lives with her mother Fran in desolate corner of Cornwall. Their relationship is not the best at times. Her mother is a diabetic and swarming in debt and poor Martha works all the time. Her father Greg abandoned her 15 years ago. Never to be seen again. The only other person they see is their neighbour Anna who is a writer and Fran draws illustrations for. For payment of living in the house as it is owned by Anna. But when Fran gets ill and ends up in hospital. Secrets about Martha’s past life is revealed, and others are not telling the truth.
I thank NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of this book. I Love Rona’s book but, this one I found hard to get into and hard to like the characters. Yes, it had a great story how far a mother will go to protect her child. This book is fall of twists and turns and secrets and lies and the full picture didn’t come to the very end. But it was tough going. 3.5 stars from me.
October 24, 2019
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
Martha has had a missing piece in her life for years. She remembers a loving father that did a lot of things with her. However, all she can remember is that after her ninth birthday, she never saw him again. She never was able to get much of an answer about her father from her mother.
When she discovers a rather odd message on her mother's phone, Martha feels it is finally time for her find the answers she most desperately needs. She does a remarkable job and she finally finds him. Martha is devastated beyond belief when he actually tells her that he is not her father.
Fran isn't saying a word. Fortunately Martha meets Izzy and they become fast friends. Izzy becomes extremely helpful and this is really a good thing. This is so because what Martha has to learn about her father's identity is really too much to bear. There is someone else in Martha's life at this point, her neighbor Anna. Anna is also there for Martha.
Boy as I was reading this I felt that Martha might have wished she never wanted to know the truth. Her Mother's Lies was a very well-written story. It made complete sense as to why Martha's mother chose to lie to her. Logical, but extremely heart-breaking. Martha has a lot to discover, and as a result, a lot to deal with.
What Martha learns about her mother Fran makes perfect sense when it comes to seeing why her mother has deteriorated. Martha resents her mother's drinking. She resents being the primary breadwinner. Her feelings of anger towards her mother grow exponentially the closer she gets to Izzy.
There were a lot of surprises in this book. This is a story about lies and secrets. I couldn't help but turn the pages quickly one after another. I felt for Martha when it came to her dealing with her mother, and especially how she was forced to deal with the revelations as they were exposed. This is an excellent read and my second by Rona Halsall. She writes great twisty tales that definitely capture my attention.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Martha has had a missing piece in her life for years. She remembers a loving father that did a lot of things with her. However, all she can remember is that after her ninth birthday, she never saw him again. She never was able to get much of an answer about her father from her mother.
When she discovers a rather odd message on her mother's phone, Martha feels it is finally time for her find the answers she most desperately needs. She does a remarkable job and she finally finds him. Martha is devastated beyond belief when he actually tells her that he is not her father.
Fran isn't saying a word. Fortunately Martha meets Izzy and they become fast friends. Izzy becomes extremely helpful and this is really a good thing. This is so because what Martha has to learn about her father's identity is really too much to bear. There is someone else in Martha's life at this point, her neighbor Anna. Anna is also there for Martha.
Boy as I was reading this I felt that Martha might have wished she never wanted to know the truth. Her Mother's Lies was a very well-written story. It made complete sense as to why Martha's mother chose to lie to her. Logical, but extremely heart-breaking. Martha has a lot to discover, and as a result, a lot to deal with.
What Martha learns about her mother Fran makes perfect sense when it comes to seeing why her mother has deteriorated. Martha resents her mother's drinking. She resents being the primary breadwinner. Her feelings of anger towards her mother grow exponentially the closer she gets to Izzy.
There were a lot of surprises in this book. This is a story about lies and secrets. I couldn't help but turn the pages quickly one after another. I felt for Martha when it came to her dealing with her mother, and especially how she was forced to deal with the revelations as they were exposed. This is an excellent read and my second by Rona Halsall. She writes great twisty tales that definitely capture my attention.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
October 7, 2019
Ah... What can I say about this book that would better describe it. There were just 3 words I was left behind with... Suspense, pathos and senseless deaths.
All the characters in the book were stuck in the different sections of the web that the author Rona Halsall had caught them in. If only they had communicated better, they could have escaped the trap that she had put them in.
The main characters mother Fran, a graphic designer and an alcoholic diabetic prone to go into coma and daughter Martha who looked after her with hardly any freedom. The duo were hiding in an isolated cottage with just a neighbor Neil and landlord and friend Anna who came down from abroad a few times a year. The father Greg had disappeared 15 years ago. Martha's friend and support, Izzy who was godsend and almost too good to be true.
There was a web of deceit that was sequestered around Martha, and with her mum in hospital, things started getting unfurled. The loose ends of life now wanted to have their day under the sun. With only these characters, I could guess the plot of the story easily, but Rona's writing kept me hooked to the prose, wanting to know if I was right.
The story kept moving back and forth in timelines and also in mother-daughter's decisions. Life had a way of getting in the middle of their honest talks and that kept the suspense going. A few visits by the cops added to the conclusions I had drawn in my brain.
The best part of the book was the ease with which I could understand this story. Many things weaved in and out, but the trail remained the same. I just had to follow the breadcrumbs left by the author. A fun read. Started the day with this book.
All the characters in the book were stuck in the different sections of the web that the author Rona Halsall had caught them in. If only they had communicated better, they could have escaped the trap that she had put them in.
The main characters mother Fran, a graphic designer and an alcoholic diabetic prone to go into coma and daughter Martha who looked after her with hardly any freedom. The duo were hiding in an isolated cottage with just a neighbor Neil and landlord and friend Anna who came down from abroad a few times a year. The father Greg had disappeared 15 years ago. Martha's friend and support, Izzy who was godsend and almost too good to be true.
There was a web of deceit that was sequestered around Martha, and with her mum in hospital, things started getting unfurled. The loose ends of life now wanted to have their day under the sun. With only these characters, I could guess the plot of the story easily, but Rona's writing kept me hooked to the prose, wanting to know if I was right.
The story kept moving back and forth in timelines and also in mother-daughter's decisions. Life had a way of getting in the middle of their honest talks and that kept the suspense going. A few visits by the cops added to the conclusions I had drawn in my brain.
The best part of the book was the ease with which I could understand this story. Many things weaved in and out, but the trail remained the same. I just had to follow the breadcrumbs left by the author. A fun read. Started the day with this book.
March 10, 2020
I received a free e-copy of Her Mother's Lies by Rona Halsall from NetGalley for my honest review.
I struggled getting into this book.
Martha and her mom, Fran have what seems to be a great relationship. But then life takes a turn and she soon realizes she has lived a life of secrets, lies and deception.
I struggled getting into this book.
Martha and her mom, Fran have what seems to be a great relationship. But then life takes a turn and she soon realizes she has lived a life of secrets, lies and deception.
October 23, 2019
Fantastic storyline. It progressed at a fast pace and had the feeling of a really tense and dark psychological thriller. I actually guessed the big twist around half way through and marvelled that I’d guessed such a fabulous twist! This didn’t spoil the story for me at all! A couple of other bits I guessed correctly to but as I progressed through the book I loved picking up all the little clues as the story continued and seeing I was correct.
Not only is this now my favourite Rona Halsall novel, it’s become one of my top five of the year!!
I’m finding it hard to put into words how good it was so if my comments above haven’t convinced you to read it l, maybe you just should!
I have to say this is my favourite of Rona Halsall’s novels. Also, if her future novels progress as the first four I’m very excited to read her next!
Not only is this now my favourite Rona Halsall novel, it’s become one of my top five of the year!!
I’m finding it hard to put into words how good it was so if my comments above haven’t convinced you to read it l, maybe you just should!
I have to say this is my favourite of Rona Halsall’s novels. Also, if her future novels progress as the first four I’m very excited to read her next!
October 22, 2019
I love Rona Halsall’s books and this one is an absolute cracker!
Martha’s life as she knows it comes tumbling down around her when she finds out the man she thought was her dad, is not.
Her friend Izzy is on hand to help pick up the pieces and with her mum in hospital, she needs the support.
Her mum, Fran, has struggled with alcoholism and Martha soon finds out they are in a lot of debt as well.
Having just lost her job she doesn’t know which way to turn.
This book is full of family secrets and twists and turns and just when you think you’ve got your head round it, another twist is thrown in.
I loved the final few chapters as the pace was relentless and left me speechless.
This is a great psychological thriller that will keep you up until the early hours once you start it.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Martha’s life as she knows it comes tumbling down around her when she finds out the man she thought was her dad, is not.
Her friend Izzy is on hand to help pick up the pieces and with her mum in hospital, she needs the support.
Her mum, Fran, has struggled with alcoholism and Martha soon finds out they are in a lot of debt as well.
Having just lost her job she doesn’t know which way to turn.
This book is full of family secrets and twists and turns and just when you think you’ve got your head round it, another twist is thrown in.
I loved the final few chapters as the pace was relentless and left me speechless.
This is a great psychological thriller that will keep you up until the early hours once you start it.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
November 12, 2019
I was really looking forward to reading this latest book by Rona Halsall as I really enjoyed ‘The Honeymoon’ earlier this year. However, I’m afraid this was nowhere near as enthralling.
I almost gave up on it (at my cut off point of 25%) as it was just such a slow start. However, I read the other reviews on NetGalley and was assured it was worth sticking with for the twists at the end. So I did stick with it.
The reviewers were correct; the twists are brilliant, shocking, and everything does come together. However, I’m not sure if they were worth getting through the first 80% of the book for. There was nothing majorly wrong with the majority of the book; it was just so slow. There are no little hooks to keep you turning the page. The characters are not that likeable. Martha really needed to give herself a shake and start being strong to be able to sort out all the problems that life was throwing at her. Yes, I did feel sorry for her, I’m not sure how any human could cope with everything that was going wrong, but she had such a weak personality. Fran was mildly interesting, she obviously has this big secret, but she has succumbed to the evils of addiction.
So, unfortunately, I was disappointed by this book. It felt like hard work to get through it as it just wasn’t as gripping and as exciting as I would have expected. Maybe I had too high expectations from all the five-star reviews, or perhaps I was missing something, but this book just wasn’t for me, sorry!
I am giving it three stars instead of two purely for the twisty ending.
Thanks for reading! If you want to see more of my reviews visit www.pinkanddizzy.com
I almost gave up on it (at my cut off point of 25%) as it was just such a slow start. However, I read the other reviews on NetGalley and was assured it was worth sticking with for the twists at the end. So I did stick with it.
The reviewers were correct; the twists are brilliant, shocking, and everything does come together. However, I’m not sure if they were worth getting through the first 80% of the book for. There was nothing majorly wrong with the majority of the book; it was just so slow. There are no little hooks to keep you turning the page. The characters are not that likeable. Martha really needed to give herself a shake and start being strong to be able to sort out all the problems that life was throwing at her. Yes, I did feel sorry for her, I’m not sure how any human could cope with everything that was going wrong, but she had such a weak personality. Fran was mildly interesting, she obviously has this big secret, but she has succumbed to the evils of addiction.
So, unfortunately, I was disappointed by this book. It felt like hard work to get through it as it just wasn’t as gripping and as exciting as I would have expected. Maybe I had too high expectations from all the five-star reviews, or perhaps I was missing something, but this book just wasn’t for me, sorry!
I am giving it three stars instead of two purely for the twisty ending.
Thanks for reading! If you want to see more of my reviews visit www.pinkanddizzy.com
October 23, 2019
My goodness -- this story had more twists and turns than the switchbacks on a Colorado mountain road! Although I guessed the truth very early on, it was a fun ride to the conclusion. Definitely a domestic drama that was also quite sad considering how things turned out.
Martha, age 24, lives with her mother, Fran, in "the forgotten corner of Cornwall." They had moved to this isolated spot when Martha's dad, Greg, left her and Fran when Martha was just 9 years old. Martha was working as a vet assistant and dreamt of going to school and Fran was a freelance illustrator who often collaborated with Anna, their occasional neighbor and landlord, on children's books. As time goes by, Martha and Fran aren't getting along so well as diabetic Fran has also turned to alcohol and is not taking care of her health. Martha wants to leave and be on her own and feels tied to home. Things come to a head when Fran is hospitalized and Martha finds that her new role might end up being as permanent caregiver. Fortunately, Martha has a good friend, Izzy, who offers to help. Things might have gone well for them all except for one thing -- Martha finds out that her entire life has been a lie. Can someone just tell her the truth? NO SPOILERS.
This was quite the story and is told in alternate points of view and shifts in time. As you read the different perspectives, it is a bit difficult at first to get the necessary information to guess who is telling the truth. There's a lot of angst, bitterness, regret, and emotion as well. I struggled to find empathy for the characters as each seemed very selfish while complaining about how they had given up everything for the other. This was a quick book that was easy to read in a single sitting. Definitely off the charts in straining credulity but certainly entertaining with all the convolutions.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review.
Martha, age 24, lives with her mother, Fran, in "the forgotten corner of Cornwall." They had moved to this isolated spot when Martha's dad, Greg, left her and Fran when Martha was just 9 years old. Martha was working as a vet assistant and dreamt of going to school and Fran was a freelance illustrator who often collaborated with Anna, their occasional neighbor and landlord, on children's books. As time goes by, Martha and Fran aren't getting along so well as diabetic Fran has also turned to alcohol and is not taking care of her health. Martha wants to leave and be on her own and feels tied to home. Things come to a head when Fran is hospitalized and Martha finds that her new role might end up being as permanent caregiver. Fortunately, Martha has a good friend, Izzy, who offers to help. Things might have gone well for them all except for one thing -- Martha finds out that her entire life has been a lie. Can someone just tell her the truth? NO SPOILERS.
This was quite the story and is told in alternate points of view and shifts in time. As you read the different perspectives, it is a bit difficult at first to get the necessary information to guess who is telling the truth. There's a lot of angst, bitterness, regret, and emotion as well. I struggled to find empathy for the characters as each seemed very selfish while complaining about how they had given up everything for the other. This was a quick book that was easy to read in a single sitting. Definitely off the charts in straining credulity but certainly entertaining with all the convolutions.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review.
February 28, 2022
Really enjoyed this book. You are left questioning everything and everyone throughout the book.
Fran is an illustrator alcoholic and quite frankly a hit mess but she loves her daughter Martha. The two of them live together in Cornwall in a tiny farm village but why? Martha is 24 a vet assistant still living with her mum. She hates her life and spends a lot of time speaking with her best friend Izzy. She wants answers and they start with finding our why her dad left. However things tame a run for yhe worse for everyone.
Both ladies are interesting characters, they are both a ness and their relationship isn't healthy.
I actually liked Fran most though. I found thats Martha was a little whiney if I'm honest but understandably. The stories are told from each woman point of view, we also get to find out snippets of the past through Fran's chapters. Let me just say its written very cleverly.
Martha and Izzy are two odd women I honestly wouldn't get in a car with either with Izzy we don't get a huge or any back story of so we are learning about her in real time. But their friendship seems very strong even if at times I felt eat of them was rude. Ha
Honestly it's the type of book where I can't review well as it will spoil the book. What you will say is as a reader who often guesses twists very early on but I only managed two and there's loads!! It's an easy 5 stars I will be making my way through all the authors punished books.
Fran is an illustrator alcoholic and quite frankly a hit mess but she loves her daughter Martha. The two of them live together in Cornwall in a tiny farm village but why? Martha is 24 a vet assistant still living with her mum. She hates her life and spends a lot of time speaking with her best friend Izzy. She wants answers and they start with finding our why her dad left. However things tame a run for yhe worse for everyone.
Both ladies are interesting characters, they are both a ness and their relationship isn't healthy.
I actually liked Fran most though. I found thats Martha was a little whiney if I'm honest but understandably. The stories are told from each woman point of view, we also get to find out snippets of the past through Fran's chapters. Let me just say its written very cleverly.
Martha and Izzy are two odd women I honestly wouldn't get in a car with either with Izzy we don't get a huge or any back story of so we are learning about her in real time. But their friendship seems very strong even if at times I felt eat of them was rude. Ha
Honestly it's the type of book where I can't review well as it will spoil the book. What you will say is as a reader who often guesses twists very early on but I only managed two and there's loads!! It's an easy 5 stars I will be making my way through all the authors punished books.
September 14, 2019
Martha’s world pretty much hits rock bottom in more ways than one. Sadly things are about to get even worse.
My heart went out to Martha. The relationship she has with her mother is almost suffocating. In a way it’s like Martha is the adult and her mother is the daughter. She has had to put her life on hold to a certain extent and is having to forgo a lot of things that she wants to do to look after Fran.
This is a story steeped with lies and revelations. Boy when those revelations start coming out, there was no stopping them. One, I had to go back a page and re read it as I was in shock. This author sure knows how to pack a punch. Rocky Balboa has nothing on this particular author when it comes to knocking the breath out of me.
Her Mother’s Lies is a jaw dropping, heart stopping page turner of a read. It should come with a warning as I could feel my heart racing towards the end as the revelations came thick and fast. I can still fill the adrenaline now coursing through me just thinking about it. The author has smashed it again.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
My heart went out to Martha. The relationship she has with her mother is almost suffocating. In a way it’s like Martha is the adult and her mother is the daughter. She has had to put her life on hold to a certain extent and is having to forgo a lot of things that she wants to do to look after Fran.
This is a story steeped with lies and revelations. Boy when those revelations start coming out, there was no stopping them. One, I had to go back a page and re read it as I was in shock. This author sure knows how to pack a punch. Rocky Balboa has nothing on this particular author when it comes to knocking the breath out of me.
Her Mother’s Lies is a jaw dropping, heart stopping page turner of a read. It should come with a warning as I could feel my heart racing towards the end as the revelations came thick and fast. I can still fill the adrenaline now coursing through me just thinking about it. The author has smashed it again.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
December 29, 2019
I don't know why I keep tagging them as thriller when there's nothing thrilling about it.
A slow burn mystery that started to pick up towards the end. Whether you manage to stay until the end or not, that's the question. The MC was in her 20's which probably gave her an excuse to act the way she did. I couldn't connect with her.
That's the problem isn't it. Me not being able to side with the MC. I just don't get why a person need another person to survive. Couldn't they do it for themselves?
The plot was interesting and the twist was different but the writing was another matter. It's not even noir.
A slow burn mystery that started to pick up towards the end. Whether you manage to stay until the end or not, that's the question. The MC was in her 20's which probably gave her an excuse to act the way she did. I couldn't connect with her.
That's the problem isn't it. Me not being able to side with the MC. I just don't get why a person need another person to survive. Couldn't they do it for themselves?
The plot was interesting and the twist was different but the writing was another matter. It's not even noir.
Read
October 18, 2023DNF at about 48%. It was rather slow moving and predictable.
December 18, 2023
An excellent read!
May 25, 2020
Another super read from Rona Halsall. Intriguing and mysterious and a real page turner with a lovely ending.
October 10, 2019
Fifteen years after her father left with no warning, Martha searches him out only to find he is not her real father and that her mother has kept secrets from her for her entire life. I didn't really enjoy this. None of the characters were likable, the dialogue felt forced (especially between Martha and Izzy), and I was not really surprised by any of the twists. I mostly kept reading just to be done with it. Two stars, because the story itself was interesting - I just didn't like the writing, and I didn't really care what happened to any of the characters.
November 8, 2021
I was in the mood for a bit of mystery reading as lately, I have been a bit blah when it comes to books as a lot had been DNF's for me. I go through stages like this. Her Mother's Lies is set in a small country town in the UK. We meet Martha and her mother Fran. For as long as she can remember Martha has been taking care of her mother and now, she has had her life upended as her boss has just died and now, she is feeling hopeless. This book first has Martha going to visit her dad, someone she hasn't seen since she was 9 years old. Here is her first lie - that her dad isn't her real dad. Who is Martha's dad and why did her mum lie about it? Fran then ends up in hospital and Izzy - Martha's friend comes to stay with her and help her out. What will happen though when Izzy turns out to be someone a bit closer to Martha, than her best friend? Anna is Fran's boss and it turns out she too has a connection to Martha. Who are all these people coming out of the woodwork and how are they connected to Martha? What other lies has her mother been keeping and are they all about to bubble to the surface, causing danger to those who know the truth about Martha and her birth/ parents? Like most UK mysteries, this book was a bit slow-paced and I have to admit for me, the ending felt a bit rushed but overall, it was a good mystery read and sure to keep readers entertained as they try and unravel the truth in this reality vs fiction tale.
October 23, 2019
I flew through this taut and twisty thriller. It had me hooked from the first page right until the last, immersing me in Martha’s world as she saw everything she believed to be true crumble and following her in her search for the truth.
Martha and her mother Fran have a difficult relationship. Martha loves her but the twenty-four-year-old craves freedom and resents Fran’s reluctance to untie the apron strings, as well as her financial and practical reliance due to her self-inflicted declining health. She’s torn between following her dreams and enjoying her youth, and being there to help the one person that’s always been there for her. But when Fran is rushed into hospital after a drinking binge triggers a diabetic coma, Martha uncovers a series of lies that shatter her whole world. Turning to the only person she can think of, her friend Izzy, Martha vows to unveil the truths she’s been denied all these years, having no idea that she’s setting down a path that will see her entire life unravel.
I was not prepared for this book. Nothing is as it seems. The author skillfully crafted a deceptive hall of mirrors, luring me into believing I had it all figured out. I didn’t see the bombshell coming until it was on the page. Bravo Rona, Bravo! I was now transfixed and on the edge of my seat, unable to look up until I finished the book.
Her Mother’s Name is layered, complex, emotionally charged, skillfully plotted and sizzling with suspense. I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys psychological thrillers.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookoture for my copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Martha and her mother Fran have a difficult relationship. Martha loves her but the twenty-four-year-old craves freedom and resents Fran’s reluctance to untie the apron strings, as well as her financial and practical reliance due to her self-inflicted declining health. She’s torn between following her dreams and enjoying her youth, and being there to help the one person that’s always been there for her. But when Fran is rushed into hospital after a drinking binge triggers a diabetic coma, Martha uncovers a series of lies that shatter her whole world. Turning to the only person she can think of, her friend Izzy, Martha vows to unveil the truths she’s been denied all these years, having no idea that she’s setting down a path that will see her entire life unravel.
I was not prepared for this book. Nothing is as it seems. The author skillfully crafted a deceptive hall of mirrors, luring me into believing I had it all figured out. I didn’t see the bombshell coming until it was on the page. Bravo Rona, Bravo! I was now transfixed and on the edge of my seat, unable to look up until I finished the book.
Her Mother’s Name is layered, complex, emotionally charged, skillfully plotted and sizzling with suspense. I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys psychological thrillers.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookoture for my copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
June 4, 2022
WOW!!!
What a absolute psychological thriller. I could not put it down! If you love thrillers you need to read “Her Mother’s Lies” as soon as you can. Every secret that Martha found had you holding your breath! There are so many that not once but many times left you speechless.
I have read most of Rona Hal’s all’s books & all of them leave you wanting for more!
What a absolute psychological thriller. I could not put it down! If you love thrillers you need to read “Her Mother’s Lies” as soon as you can. Every secret that Martha found had you holding your breath! There are so many that not once but many times left you speechless.
I have read most of Rona Hal’s all’s books & all of them leave you wanting for more!
June 20, 2020
I finished this book only to see what ridiculous things would happen next. Uggh!
August 25, 2023
August 2023
Kindle edition
Uh. This one got bizarre. I struggled to get into the characters, especially Martha. She was very whiny, fight or flight. A lot could've been resolved if she hadn't acted like a child. It didn't help that elements of the story hit a bit close to home. The story itself went from one strange twist to another. First she's a child of a rapist and then Fran isn't even her mother. Her friend is her aunt and real mother and then there's the ringleader which I did see coming. Anna was just a little bit too involved and free rent? Cheap rent? Her reaction to Izzy? Yeah, she was up to something. I'm a little ashamed I didn't realise she was the judge. I thought she was the judge's wife. The ending was a little creepy and unfair. Izzy dies, yet absolutely nothing happened to Charles. It was a mess of a family.
Kindle edition
Uh. This one got bizarre. I struggled to get into the characters, especially Martha. She was very whiny, fight or flight. A lot could've been resolved if she hadn't acted like a child. It didn't help that elements of the story hit a bit close to home. The story itself went from one strange twist to another. First she's a child of a rapist and then Fran isn't even her mother. Her friend is her aunt and real mother and then there's the ringleader which I did see coming. Anna was just a little bit too involved and free rent? Cheap rent? Her reaction to Izzy? Yeah, she was up to something. I'm a little ashamed I didn't realise she was the judge. I thought she was the judge's wife. The ending was a little creepy and unfair. Izzy dies, yet absolutely nothing happened to Charles. It was a mess of a family.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2019
Just Brilliant!!!!
Her Mother's Lies by Rona Halsall was a fantastic book and I was hooked within the first few pages and ended up reading it in 2 sittings!
This book was fast pace with lots of family secrets, with twists and turns that will leave you shocked! OMG with another Big Twist!!! Then, another Big Twist!!!!! I didn't see that coming!
Blimey what a cracking read! The last few chapters I was stunned and it left me speechless and that means a Brilliant book and a must read!!!
"What if the person you trust most in the world, has been lying to you for your whole life?"
Martha, Fran, Izzie, Greg and Anna are the main characters within this book.
Martha is in her mid-twenties and still lives with her mum Fran. They both live in a remote pretty cottage in the Cornish countryside. Martha would do anything for her mum. Fran has a lovely job, where she paints and illustrates children's books for a local children book writer and friend Ann. Ann is also a very close and nearly only friend of the family and always looks out for them..............
Martha is training to be an animal nurse which she is loving every minute of it.
Martha becomes friends with someone called Izzie through their love of dogs and they form a very close friendship with each other.
Martha sees a strange message on her mother’s phone – apparently from her estranged father Greg.
But, why did Greg leave her mum? Their relationship always seemed to be a happy one.
Martha remembers her dad taking her out for an ice-cream etc at weekend, helping with her homework, being a loveable dad to Martha.......Then a few days before her ninth birthday, he walked out on her and her mum.
Fran becomes ill and is taken to the local hospital. Martha's relationship with Izzy takes another step and they become closer.
Poor Martha, her troubles are only really just beginning!!!
But Who is Lizzy?
What happened to her father Greg? Where is he?
What has Ann got to do with it all? What is she hiding? Who is Ann really?
I highly Recommend Her Mother's Lies its a Brilliant psychological thriller that will keep you Hooked.
You will want to know what happens to Martha and her Mum Fran etc and will just leave you stunned!!!!
WoW..............What a brilliant book!
10/10 read!
Big thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased
Her Mother's Lies by Rona Halsall was a fantastic book and I was hooked within the first few pages and ended up reading it in 2 sittings!
This book was fast pace with lots of family secrets, with twists and turns that will leave you shocked! OMG with another Big Twist!!! Then, another Big Twist!!!!! I didn't see that coming!
Blimey what a cracking read! The last few chapters I was stunned and it left me speechless and that means a Brilliant book and a must read!!!
"What if the person you trust most in the world, has been lying to you for your whole life?"
Martha, Fran, Izzie, Greg and Anna are the main characters within this book.
Martha is in her mid-twenties and still lives with her mum Fran. They both live in a remote pretty cottage in the Cornish countryside. Martha would do anything for her mum. Fran has a lovely job, where she paints and illustrates children's books for a local children book writer and friend Ann. Ann is also a very close and nearly only friend of the family and always looks out for them..............
Martha is training to be an animal nurse which she is loving every minute of it.
Martha becomes friends with someone called Izzie through their love of dogs and they form a very close friendship with each other.
Martha sees a strange message on her mother’s phone – apparently from her estranged father Greg.
But, why did Greg leave her mum? Their relationship always seemed to be a happy one.
Martha remembers her dad taking her out for an ice-cream etc at weekend, helping with her homework, being a loveable dad to Martha.......Then a few days before her ninth birthday, he walked out on her and her mum.
Fran becomes ill and is taken to the local hospital. Martha's relationship with Izzy takes another step and they become closer.
Poor Martha, her troubles are only really just beginning!!!
But Who is Lizzy?
What happened to her father Greg? Where is he?
What has Ann got to do with it all? What is she hiding? Who is Ann really?
I highly Recommend Her Mother's Lies its a Brilliant psychological thriller that will keep you Hooked.
You will want to know what happens to Martha and her Mum Fran etc and will just leave you stunned!!!!
WoW..............What a brilliant book!
10/10 read!
Big thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased
October 21, 2019
I really do not know where to begin with this book! Another book by Rona and another story where she has spun so many plates I do not know how she managed to keep them all spinning without dropping anything!
The first half of this book is slowish, in terms of the scene is being set, creating so much tension I was on edge, curveballs are being pitched and characters are being introduced. It is not until the second half of the book where I was urging the characters to catch up with me did you see the proverbial mud hit the fan and it just did not stop. One reveal and then another and another. I was kept completely on my toes, where I was not sure where the book was going for about 60% of the book, Her Mother’s Lies is like a steam train flying down the track for the last 40%.
We have a small pool of characters with Martha, Fran her mother, Izzy the friend and Anna the neighbour. Each and every one of them plays a role in Martha’s life, the main character, all intertwining and tightening that web around Martha with their lies. Will she see things before it’s too late? Will anyone just tell the truth? Pah, don’t be silly where is the fun in that! Because if everyone told the truth we wouldn’t have the mess we have now and poor Martha wouldn’t be poor Martha.
I did find it hard to “like” any of the characters, I thoroughly enjoyed the story, but I just did not warm to the characters. I found at times it was a bit hard going when all Martha and Izzy would do was cry. Do not get me wrong I completely get why they were crying, they were exhausted, there were lies, there was anger but I just wanted to shake them and make them wake up and smell the roses. That being said they all played their part well and kept me engrossed in their lives.
Nothing is ever what it seems in Rona’s books and I love that about her writing! She creates a hailstorm of lies making you question everything and just when you think you have got the eye of the storm, she leaves you with uncertainly and definitely with a chill down your spine and she always has the final say.
The first half of this book is slowish, in terms of the scene is being set, creating so much tension I was on edge, curveballs are being pitched and characters are being introduced. It is not until the second half of the book where I was urging the characters to catch up with me did you see the proverbial mud hit the fan and it just did not stop. One reveal and then another and another. I was kept completely on my toes, where I was not sure where the book was going for about 60% of the book, Her Mother’s Lies is like a steam train flying down the track for the last 40%.
We have a small pool of characters with Martha, Fran her mother, Izzy the friend and Anna the neighbour. Each and every one of them plays a role in Martha’s life, the main character, all intertwining and tightening that web around Martha with their lies. Will she see things before it’s too late? Will anyone just tell the truth? Pah, don’t be silly where is the fun in that! Because if everyone told the truth we wouldn’t have the mess we have now and poor Martha wouldn’t be poor Martha.
I did find it hard to “like” any of the characters, I thoroughly enjoyed the story, but I just did not warm to the characters. I found at times it was a bit hard going when all Martha and Izzy would do was cry. Do not get me wrong I completely get why they were crying, they were exhausted, there were lies, there was anger but I just wanted to shake them and make them wake up and smell the roses. That being said they all played their part well and kept me engrossed in their lives.
Nothing is ever what it seems in Rona’s books and I love that about her writing! She creates a hailstorm of lies making you question everything and just when you think you have got the eye of the storm, she leaves you with uncertainly and definitely with a chill down your spine and she always has the final say.
October 22, 2019
This book is told from Martha and Frans perspective. The storyline is slow at the beginning but picks up pace. The book is filled with many twists and turns. The characters are well developed. There was a point in the book where I really didn’t like Izzy. She even disturbed me but as I read further and got more details those feelings changed.
The ending was a complete surprise and I didn’t guess that was where the story was going. This book kept me on the edge of my seat. Rona is a great author and can’t wait for another book from her.
The ending was a complete surprise and I didn’t guess that was where the story was going. This book kept me on the edge of my seat. Rona is a great author and can’t wait for another book from her.
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