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Everybody Lies
It sometimes feels impossible to keep anything hidden in a place like Great Rock. But now they have found that poor girl down on the beach, I realize just how many secrets we’ve been keeping all along.
Evvy has lived on the island of Great Rock all her life. Every year, after the holidaymakers have departed, storms begin to roll in off the Atlantic and the island returns to the small group of locals who, like her, have decided to make it their home.
But when a body is found on the snow-covered beach it sends shockwaves through this tight-knit community and rattles Evvy to her core.
The dead woman had worked on the island the previous summer and it seems strange she would have been visiting so out of season. What drew her back and who was she meeting? When Evvy learns that her partner, Ian, was the last person to see her alive, the shadow of the murder falls far too close to home.
No stranger to being talked about on the island, where no one’s private life is their own, Evvy must protect her daughter, Daisy, from yet more island gossip. Her family’s happiness has felt fragile at the best of times and now with Ian under suspicion, she senses they are close to freefall once again.
As the icy weather closes in, Evvy will discover that no matter how hard you try to hide it, the truth will always find a way out.
A tense and atmospheric emotional drama that will keep you guessing. Perfect for fans of Liane Moriarty, Diane Chamberlain and Sally Hepworth.
Evvy has lived on the island of Great Rock all her life. Every year, after the holidaymakers have departed, storms begin to roll in off the Atlantic and the island returns to the small group of locals who, like her, have decided to make it their home.
But when a body is found on the snow-covered beach it sends shockwaves through this tight-knit community and rattles Evvy to her core.
The dead woman had worked on the island the previous summer and it seems strange she would have been visiting so out of season. What drew her back and who was she meeting? When Evvy learns that her partner, Ian, was the last person to see her alive, the shadow of the murder falls far too close to home.
No stranger to being talked about on the island, where no one’s private life is their own, Evvy must protect her daughter, Daisy, from yet more island gossip. Her family’s happiness has felt fragile at the best of times and now with Ian under suspicion, she senses they are close to freefall once again.
As the icy weather closes in, Evvy will discover that no matter how hard you try to hide it, the truth will always find a way out.
A tense and atmospheric emotional drama that will keep you guessing. Perfect for fans of Liane Moriarty, Diane Chamberlain and Sally Hepworth.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 15, 2020
51 people are currently reading
95 people want to read
About the author
Emily Maine Cavanagh
4 books156 followersThanks for checking out my Goodreads Author page! A little about me: Originally from the Boston area, I now live on the island of Martha's Vineyard with my husband and two daughters. During the day I work as a middle and high school English teacher. When not teaching, parenting, reading or cooking, I write contemporary fiction. My writing tends to focus on family, motherhood, relationships, work and career angst, sibling rivalry, and other messy stuff. My first novel, THE BLOOM GIRLS, released in 2017 with Lake Union Publishing. My second novel, THIS BRIGHT BEAUTY, releases March 1, 2018. Want to hear more? Read more about my work on my website (www.emilycavanaghauthor.com), sign up for my author newsletter. or follow me on social media.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
October 14, 2020
Evvy has lived on the island of Great Rock all her life. Every yewr after, after the holidaymakers have departed, storms begin to roll in off the Atlantic and the island returns to the small group of locals who, like her, have decided to make it their home. But when a body is found on a snow covered beach it sends shock waves through the community. The dead woman had worked on the island the previous summer and it's strange 5hat she returned out of season. Evvy learns that her partner, Ian, was the last person to see the woman alive.
The story is told from Caroline, Evvy and her twenty year old daughter, Daisy's point of view. Layla Dresser's body had been discovered on Osprey Beach. It took me a little while to get into the book and I felt it was more a drama than a mystery. This story covers: drug addiction, domestic abuse, secrets and lies. Imslao found it a bit confusing and repetitive and the ending was a bit abrupt. With all I've said, I still enjoyed the book.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #Bookouture and the author #EmilyCavanagh for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story is told from Caroline, Evvy and her twenty year old daughter, Daisy's point of view. Layla Dresser's body had been discovered on Osprey Beach. It took me a little while to get into the book and I felt it was more a drama than a mystery. This story covers: drug addiction, domestic abuse, secrets and lies. Imslao found it a bit confusing and repetitive and the ending was a bit abrupt. With all I've said, I still enjoyed the book.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #Bookouture and the author #EmilyCavanagh for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 3, 2020
I struggled to get into this book and gel with any of the characters so it wasn't my favourite read this year.
The story is told from three peoples POV, Caroline, her best friend Evvy and Evvy's 20 year old daughter Daisy. The body of Layla Dresser is discovered on Osprey Beach, Great Rock Island.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
The story is told from three peoples POV, Caroline, her best friend Evvy and Evvy's 20 year old daughter Daisy. The body of Layla Dresser is discovered on Osprey Beach, Great Rock Island.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2020
A slow burn suspenseful read which had a lot of mystery embroiled within the characters. My first book by author Emily Cavanagh, the prose was beautiful where each word carried its weight in emotions. Secrets and twists were the norms, like every thriller, this had many false clues and suspects.
The book was set on an island where everybody knew everything, yet it didn’t give a cozy feel to the story. I liked that; it added to the atmosphere around the characters and made it appear eerie. Friendship was bonded between the main characters Caroline and Evvy who were once married to cops. New partners saw them going through the usual relationship rigmarole when a murder occurred on the beach.
Told in multiple POVs, the story took shape when Caroline and Evvy pieced the clues together, getting the information of the investigation via their husbands. The suspense was tinged into the prose, but there was also the added trope of friendship and relationships with their kids. Great character development gave a depth to the story where the ladies were strong and flawed. They were real.
The clues leading to the identity of the killer were slotted slow and steady into the prose with the backdrop of the problem of drugs in the island life. Here secrets were more than its residents, or so it felt ofttimes. Layers were nuanced in subtly which made it slightly a slower read. At its core, it was still a murder mystery, where I enjoyed getting to tighten the noose around the killer’s identity.
Overall a good whodunit.
The book was set on an island where everybody knew everything, yet it didn’t give a cozy feel to the story. I liked that; it added to the atmosphere around the characters and made it appear eerie. Friendship was bonded between the main characters Caroline and Evvy who were once married to cops. New partners saw them going through the usual relationship rigmarole when a murder occurred on the beach.
Told in multiple POVs, the story took shape when Caroline and Evvy pieced the clues together, getting the information of the investigation via their husbands. The suspense was tinged into the prose, but there was also the added trope of friendship and relationships with their kids. Great character development gave a depth to the story where the ladies were strong and flawed. They were real.
The clues leading to the identity of the killer were slotted slow and steady into the prose with the backdrop of the problem of drugs in the island life. Here secrets were more than its residents, or so it felt ofttimes. Layers were nuanced in subtly which made it slightly a slower read. At its core, it was still a murder mystery, where I enjoyed getting to tighten the noose around the killer’s identity.
Overall a good whodunit.
October 11, 2020
Just beautiful, heartbreaking and poignant. The writing is stunning. This is a story of secrets and families,love, loss and betrayal and the lengths we go to for those we love. Loved loved loved this book. I will read anything thus author writes. Cannot wait for her next.
November 2, 2020
Review coming soon.
October 13, 2020
This is a great mystery thriller.
Great Rock is a small island that is busy in the summer months and quiet in the winter months.
A girl is found murdered on the beach after a festival and the whole community is shocked. It turns out she worked there in the summer, but what was she doing there in the winter?
The story is told from three points of view - Caroline, Evvy and her daughter Daisy. We learn what’s happened in their lives and realise there’s a few things being hidden.
Caroline and the chief of Police are having a trial separation but with their son, Connor, gradually becoming out of control, they need to pull together.
Evvy’s partner Ian is suspected of some involvement in the girl’s death which leaves Evvy and Daisy in shock.
As the story progresses more and more comes to light and there’s a few shocks in store.
I really enjoyed this book as the chapters from different characters gave different views of the situation and it all came together really well.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Great Rock is a small island that is busy in the summer months and quiet in the winter months.
A girl is found murdered on the beach after a festival and the whole community is shocked. It turns out she worked there in the summer, but what was she doing there in the winter?
The story is told from three points of view - Caroline, Evvy and her daughter Daisy. We learn what’s happened in their lives and realise there’s a few things being hidden.
Caroline and the chief of Police are having a trial separation but with their son, Connor, gradually becoming out of control, they need to pull together.
Evvy’s partner Ian is suspected of some involvement in the girl’s death which leaves Evvy and Daisy in shock.
As the story progresses more and more comes to light and there’s a few shocks in store.
I really enjoyed this book as the chapters from different characters gave different views of the situation and it all came together really well.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
October 16, 2020
There is no comfort in the truth
Everybody Lies by Emily Cavanaugh is a page-turner psychological thriller exploring complex human relationships.
A young woman was killed on a freezing beach in Great Rock Island. She was not a local, but she had worked there in a restaurant during the previous summer.
Several characters were seen talking to her, and many had motives to have killed her.
Meanwhile, two friends struggled with their relationships. The first one on the verge of divorce, the second one, a long-time divorcee, struggling with her current relationship, and unable to let the past go.
Nothing was as it seemed, and everyone had something to hide.
The narrative was exciting, and I was hooked from the first page.
I liked how messed up and flawed all characters were. Not even one was completely faultless or innocent. Well, Daisy, maybe.
My favorite character was Ian, a puzzle from the very start. Evvy also was a favorite because she was so flawed but so unapologetic. Caroline was so annoyingly indecisive and passive. Her son Connor an apparent reflex of his parents’ messed up relationship.
I loved this mix-and-match of personalities.
The setting is a freezing island, and it suited so well the general mood of the story.
Everybody Lies is a page-turner psychological thriller with complex characters and an exciting plot.
I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
Everybody Lies by Emily Cavanaugh is a page-turner psychological thriller exploring complex human relationships.
A young woman was killed on a freezing beach in Great Rock Island. She was not a local, but she had worked there in a restaurant during the previous summer.
Several characters were seen talking to her, and many had motives to have killed her.
Meanwhile, two friends struggled with their relationships. The first one on the verge of divorce, the second one, a long-time divorcee, struggling with her current relationship, and unable to let the past go.
Nothing was as it seemed, and everyone had something to hide.
The narrative was exciting, and I was hooked from the first page.
I liked how messed up and flawed all characters were. Not even one was completely faultless or innocent. Well, Daisy, maybe.
My favorite character was Ian, a puzzle from the very start. Evvy also was a favorite because she was so flawed but so unapologetic. Caroline was so annoyingly indecisive and passive. Her son Connor an apparent reflex of his parents’ messed up relationship.
I loved this mix-and-match of personalities.
The setting is a freezing island, and it suited so well the general mood of the story.
Everybody Lies is a page-turner psychological thriller with complex characters and an exciting plot.
I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
October 19, 2020
Title: Everybody Lies
Publication Day – Oct 15th 2020
Author: Emily Cavanagh
Description:
It sometimes feels impossible to keep anything hidden in a place like Great Rock. But now they have found that poor girl down on the beach, I realize just how many secrets we’ve been keeping all along.
Evvy has lived on the island of Great Rock all her life. Every year, after the holidaymakers have departed, storms begin to roll in off the Atlantic and the island returns to the small group of locals who, like her, have decided to make it their home.
When a body is found on the snow-covered beach it sends shockwaves through this tight-knit community and rattles Evvy to her core.
The dead woman worked on the island the previous summer and it seems strange she would have been visiting so out of season. What drew her back and who was she meeting? When Evvy learns that her partner,Ian, was the last person to see her alive, the shadow of the murder falls far too close to home.
As the icy weather closes in, the island is cut off from the mainland, and Ian is taken into custody. Rumours about what is really going on in Great Rock reach fever pitch, as Evvy works to prove Ian’s innocence before it’s too late.
But there are things about the people she loves that Evvy doesn’t know or has chosen not to see. The truth might not save the life she has worked so hard to build for herself. Instead, it might tear it apart…
A tense and atmospheric emotional drama that will keep you guessing. Perfect for fans of Liane Moriarty, Diane Chamberlain and Sally Hepworth.
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Everybody Lies' by Emily Cavanagh.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 15th October 2020
This is the first book that I have read by this author.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful and colourful cover and interesting sounding blurb. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 41 chapters The chapters are medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is set in the USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written from first person perspectives and the main protagonist are Caroline, Daisy and Evvy. I always enjoy reading books written from first person perspective as it feels like I get to know the character better and get a bigger picture of what is going on. It also creates more of a bond between yourself and the protagonist. I love that there are 3 protagonists in this book as it means you get to know each of them much more and get the larger picture of how they are feeling, what they are thinking and what's going on.
This book was well written and I enjoyed the multiple POV's. However, I did get confused by who was who up until about 25%. After I had worked all the relationships out it was a much smoother read. I enjoyed the descriptions and the setting was ideal for the storyline.
The storyline itself was a slow burner but filled with suspense, drama, mystery, lies, secrets and crime. Along with the murder there was the problem of drugs so multiple storylines going on. I never worked out who the killer was which is always a bonus as there's nothing worse than figuring it out less than half way through a book. I was very surprised when I found out who it was and even more surprised when the whole story was revealed of what some of the characters were up to.
The characters were all very realistic and a huge mix of different personalities. I think of all of the characters I felt for Daisy the most as she seemed to be caught up in the worst of it all. I enjoyed watching the different relationships bond and how they changed throughout the storyline.
Overall a slow burning psychological fiction that will keep you guessing throughout.
Genres covered include Psychological Fiction.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above.
284 pages.
This book is 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon or free on kindle unlimited which I think is a bargain for this book!!!
Rated 4/5 (I enjoyed it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#EverybodyLies # #Bookouture EmilyCavanagh#NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@EmilyCavanagh @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Author Bio:
A teacher as well as a writer, Emily Cavanagh lives with her husband, two daughters, and an Australian Shepherd on Martha's Vineyard Island. Her work has been published in Red Rock Review, Grain Magazine, Transfer, and Martha's Vineyard Arts and Ideas. Read more about Emily's work and life at www.emilycavanaghauthor.com.
Author Social Media Links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emilymcavana...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/emilymcavanagh
BUY LINKS
Amazon: https://geni.us/B08F9T795SSocial
Apple: http://ow.ly/xXIJ50ASemK
Kobo: http://ow.ly/x2OE50ASe4x
Google: http://ow.ly/sFr850ASeqF
Publication Day – Oct 15th 2020
Author: Emily Cavanagh
Description:
It sometimes feels impossible to keep anything hidden in a place like Great Rock. But now they have found that poor girl down on the beach, I realize just how many secrets we’ve been keeping all along.
Evvy has lived on the island of Great Rock all her life. Every year, after the holidaymakers have departed, storms begin to roll in off the Atlantic and the island returns to the small group of locals who, like her, have decided to make it their home.
When a body is found on the snow-covered beach it sends shockwaves through this tight-knit community and rattles Evvy to her core.
The dead woman worked on the island the previous summer and it seems strange she would have been visiting so out of season. What drew her back and who was she meeting? When Evvy learns that her partner,Ian, was the last person to see her alive, the shadow of the murder falls far too close to home.
As the icy weather closes in, the island is cut off from the mainland, and Ian is taken into custody. Rumours about what is really going on in Great Rock reach fever pitch, as Evvy works to prove Ian’s innocence before it’s too late.
But there are things about the people she loves that Evvy doesn’t know or has chosen not to see. The truth might not save the life she has worked so hard to build for herself. Instead, it might tear it apart…
A tense and atmospheric emotional drama that will keep you guessing. Perfect for fans of Liane Moriarty, Diane Chamberlain and Sally Hepworth.
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Everybody Lies' by Emily Cavanagh.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 15th October 2020
This is the first book that I have read by this author.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful and colourful cover and interesting sounding blurb. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 41 chapters The chapters are medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is set in the USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written from first person perspectives and the main protagonist are Caroline, Daisy and Evvy. I always enjoy reading books written from first person perspective as it feels like I get to know the character better and get a bigger picture of what is going on. It also creates more of a bond between yourself and the protagonist. I love that there are 3 protagonists in this book as it means you get to know each of them much more and get the larger picture of how they are feeling, what they are thinking and what's going on.
This book was well written and I enjoyed the multiple POV's. However, I did get confused by who was who up until about 25%. After I had worked all the relationships out it was a much smoother read. I enjoyed the descriptions and the setting was ideal for the storyline.
The storyline itself was a slow burner but filled with suspense, drama, mystery, lies, secrets and crime. Along with the murder there was the problem of drugs so multiple storylines going on. I never worked out who the killer was which is always a bonus as there's nothing worse than figuring it out less than half way through a book. I was very surprised when I found out who it was and even more surprised when the whole story was revealed of what some of the characters were up to.
The characters were all very realistic and a huge mix of different personalities. I think of all of the characters I felt for Daisy the most as she seemed to be caught up in the worst of it all. I enjoyed watching the different relationships bond and how they changed throughout the storyline.
Overall a slow burning psychological fiction that will keep you guessing throughout.
Genres covered include Psychological Fiction.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above.
284 pages.
This book is 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon or free on kindle unlimited which I think is a bargain for this book!!!
Rated 4/5 (I enjoyed it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#EverybodyLies # #Bookouture EmilyCavanagh#NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@EmilyCavanagh @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Author Bio:
A teacher as well as a writer, Emily Cavanagh lives with her husband, two daughters, and an Australian Shepherd on Martha's Vineyard Island. Her work has been published in Red Rock Review, Grain Magazine, Transfer, and Martha's Vineyard Arts and Ideas. Read more about Emily's work and life at www.emilycavanaghauthor.com.
Author Social Media Links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emilymcavana...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/emilymcavanagh
BUY LINKS
Amazon: https://geni.us/B08F9T795SSocial
Apple: http://ow.ly/xXIJ50ASemK
Kobo: http://ow.ly/x2OE50ASe4x
Google: http://ow.ly/sFr850ASeqF
October 29, 2020
Emily Cavanagh
has written a fantastic novel brimming with tension, alongside oodles of lies, family dramas, secrets, and betrayal. I found it absolutely absorbing and compelling from the first until the final page.
Set on the island of Great Rock, Massachusetts, Evvy had a great relationship with her friend Caroline, and they displayed an array of emotions, so well portrayed by the author. The impressive character development gave depth to the story and both of these women, though flawed, displayed inner strength. Told in dual timelines from a variety of viewpoints there was a great deal going on descriptive-wise, so I was never bored. Throughout Everybody Lies, everything flowed as it ought to in the lead up an emotional outcome that I did not foresee. I found myself pondering the identity of the perpetrator amidst the backdrop of the expertly depicted freezing, stormy island. I think this chilling atmosphere and the finger-pointing tight-knit community served to enhance the overall aura and vibe of the story.
The characters, the narration, the twists and the plot were all excellent and even though everyone was not particularly personable, this added enrichment to the story, so I loved it anyway. Very highly recommended, I look forward to Emily Cavanagh's next novel.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Bookouture via NetGalley at my request and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
Set on the island of Great Rock, Massachusetts, Evvy had a great relationship with her friend Caroline, and they displayed an array of emotions, so well portrayed by the author. The impressive character development gave depth to the story and both of these women, though flawed, displayed inner strength. Told in dual timelines from a variety of viewpoints there was a great deal going on descriptive-wise, so I was never bored. Throughout Everybody Lies, everything flowed as it ought to in the lead up an emotional outcome that I did not foresee. I found myself pondering the identity of the perpetrator amidst the backdrop of the expertly depicted freezing, stormy island. I think this chilling atmosphere and the finger-pointing tight-knit community served to enhance the overall aura and vibe of the story.
The characters, the narration, the twists and the plot were all excellent and even though everyone was not particularly personable, this added enrichment to the story, so I loved it anyway. Very highly recommended, I look forward to Emily Cavanagh's next novel.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Bookouture via NetGalley at my request and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
September 26, 2020
Atmospheric American setting for a murder mystery.
'Everybody Lies' by Emily Cavanagh is set in Great Rock Island, a small island in Massachusetts, near Boston, USA. The book is told from the points of view (POV) of Caroline, Evvy and Daisy, who live on Great Rock Island. Daisy is Evvy's daughter. Caroline and Evvy are close friends who were married to the top cops on the island, respectively Jack and Cyrus. Since her separation, Evvy has been in a relationship with Ian, a sailor on the ferries that go daily to the mainland. Another important character is Caroline's 20-year-old son, Connor, who has moved out of the family home. Similarly-aged Connor and Daisy have grown up together, and have formed an on again / off again relationship.
The prologue opens with the pursuit of a frightened girl on a beach in the deep of the night; it is told in her POV. Further into the book we find that young Layla was a hospitality worker during the island's booming tourist season. She returned a few times during her holidays. Following the murder, gossip ensues amongst the members of the small community as to who has been seen with whom, and more importantly, who was at the bar where Layla worked on the night she died.
Caroline and Evvy learn of the progress of the investigation through their estranged ex-husbands, with whom they each has formed an on again/ off again relationship, the bonds remaining strong. Illegal recreational drugs and heroin have become a problem on the island, having led to several deaths from overdoses. When Caroline suspects that Connor may be using, she initially keeps the information to herself. However, she soon finds out that she is one of the last to know. The reader fears for the safety of both Connor and Daisy, especially when Daisy meets and befriends a stranger.
This well-written suspense mystery turned slowly, giving a deep personality portrayal of all the main characters as well as of some of the side ones. Emily Cavanagh made the characters come to life, each flawed in their own way yet likeable, as they were believable. You wanted Evvy's, Caroline's and Daisy's relationship wishes to come true.
While reading the book, the reader suspects many of the characters, including the first whom the police arrest. However, if you are a frequent reader of the crime trope, you know that this is either a red herring, or other antagonists will be revealed. The author avoids most of the tired clichés of this genre. This isn't the usual police procedural or psychological thriller with adults vying with each other. It is more literary and nuanced. The author knows what she's talking about; her writing style is lyrical, yet authoritative.
The bleak wintry setting of Great Rock Island made a character of its own, forming an eery backdrop for drugs, murder and other nefarious deeds. Caroline's perspective of a late comer to the island gave the story a stifling feeling. (And in Covid-19 times, don't we all know what claustrophobia feels like!)
I totally recommend 'Everybody Lies', a well-written suspense story told with loads of humanity and feeling, twists and turns in terms of human drama, engaging characters and a sinister setting.
Thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture and the author for this advanced review copy for an honest review.
*Potential Spoiler* The author, Emily Cavanagh, has avoided the tired clichés of the main characters being either threatened or killed or captured. I was so relieved to read that.
This review also appears in
https://thereadersvault.blogspot.com/..., netgalley.com and amazon.com (post publication day)
'Everybody Lies' by Emily Cavanagh is set in Great Rock Island, a small island in Massachusetts, near Boston, USA. The book is told from the points of view (POV) of Caroline, Evvy and Daisy, who live on Great Rock Island. Daisy is Evvy's daughter. Caroline and Evvy are close friends who were married to the top cops on the island, respectively Jack and Cyrus. Since her separation, Evvy has been in a relationship with Ian, a sailor on the ferries that go daily to the mainland. Another important character is Caroline's 20-year-old son, Connor, who has moved out of the family home. Similarly-aged Connor and Daisy have grown up together, and have formed an on again / off again relationship.
The prologue opens with the pursuit of a frightened girl on a beach in the deep of the night; it is told in her POV. Further into the book we find that young Layla was a hospitality worker during the island's booming tourist season. She returned a few times during her holidays. Following the murder, gossip ensues amongst the members of the small community as to who has been seen with whom, and more importantly, who was at the bar where Layla worked on the night she died.
Caroline and Evvy learn of the progress of the investigation through their estranged ex-husbands, with whom they each has formed an on again/ off again relationship, the bonds remaining strong. Illegal recreational drugs and heroin have become a problem on the island, having led to several deaths from overdoses. When Caroline suspects that Connor may be using, she initially keeps the information to herself. However, she soon finds out that she is one of the last to know. The reader fears for the safety of both Connor and Daisy, especially when Daisy meets and befriends a stranger.
This well-written suspense mystery turned slowly, giving a deep personality portrayal of all the main characters as well as of some of the side ones. Emily Cavanagh made the characters come to life, each flawed in their own way yet likeable, as they were believable. You wanted Evvy's, Caroline's and Daisy's relationship wishes to come true.
While reading the book, the reader suspects many of the characters, including the first whom the police arrest. However, if you are a frequent reader of the crime trope, you know that this is either a red herring, or other antagonists will be revealed. The author avoids most of the tired clichés of this genre. This isn't the usual police procedural or psychological thriller with adults vying with each other. It is more literary and nuanced. The author knows what she's talking about; her writing style is lyrical, yet authoritative.
The bleak wintry setting of Great Rock Island made a character of its own, forming an eery backdrop for drugs, murder and other nefarious deeds. Caroline's perspective of a late comer to the island gave the story a stifling feeling. (And in Covid-19 times, don't we all know what claustrophobia feels like!)
I totally recommend 'Everybody Lies', a well-written suspense story told with loads of humanity and feeling, twists and turns in terms of human drama, engaging characters and a sinister setting.
Thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture and the author for this advanced review copy for an honest review.
*Potential Spoiler* The author, Emily Cavanagh, has avoided the tired clichés of the main characters being either threatened or killed or captured. I was so relieved to read that.
This review also appears in
https://thereadersvault.blogspot.com/..., netgalley.com and amazon.com (post publication day)
October 30, 2020
Caroline is a librarian who married Jack Doherty 22 years ago. Jack is the Chief of Police on the island of Great Rock in New England. They have one son, Connor, 21. Several months ago, Jack told Caroline that he needed time apart from her and moved out. Caroline has been trying for so long to get Connor to go to college but has not been successful.
Great Rock is a very popular summer destination. Some areas of the island have large summer homes for the wealthy and there are also lots of rental cottages. The restaurants do a booming business in the summer. People get to and from the island via a ferry. However, in the winter, the locals are the ones staying on the island braving the cold winter. They have lived here for years and are intertwined via family and friendships.
Jack calls Caroline to tell her he is coming over. She thinks that must mean that he will be saying he wants a divorce. Instead, he tells her that a young woman was strangled to death on the beach the night before. She had worked at a bar on the island the previous summer. Everyone is shocked.
Caroline and Evvy have been friends for years. Evvy is also married to a cop named Cyrus. They have been separated for years. Evvy lives with Ian, a ferryboat operator and her husband lives with his girlfriend. Evvy has a daughter named Daisy, 20. She and Connor have been friends for years. Several years ago, Evvy’s other daughter died in a car accident that sent Evvy into a terrible depression. It was Caroline who got her through this tough time and the loss of their daughter was also what ended Evvy’s marriage.
There were a number of people in a local bar the night the young woman was murdered. Ian was there and so was Connor as he is a sous chef there. The police suspect Ian but have not arrested him. There could be many other suspects as well so no arrests have been made.
The story weaves into the lives of Caroline and Evvy and their children, Connor and Daisy. There are drugs being dealt in the community and people are concerned about that not knowing who is involved. Someone is holding onto the truth of what happened the night the woman was murdered.
This is a story of what happens in the lives of everyday people. It’s the trials they face, the family they love and protect, and the friends who will always support them. It makes for good reading.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Great Rock is a very popular summer destination. Some areas of the island have large summer homes for the wealthy and there are also lots of rental cottages. The restaurants do a booming business in the summer. People get to and from the island via a ferry. However, in the winter, the locals are the ones staying on the island braving the cold winter. They have lived here for years and are intertwined via family and friendships.
Jack calls Caroline to tell her he is coming over. She thinks that must mean that he will be saying he wants a divorce. Instead, he tells her that a young woman was strangled to death on the beach the night before. She had worked at a bar on the island the previous summer. Everyone is shocked.
Caroline and Evvy have been friends for years. Evvy is also married to a cop named Cyrus. They have been separated for years. Evvy lives with Ian, a ferryboat operator and her husband lives with his girlfriend. Evvy has a daughter named Daisy, 20. She and Connor have been friends for years. Several years ago, Evvy’s other daughter died in a car accident that sent Evvy into a terrible depression. It was Caroline who got her through this tough time and the loss of their daughter was also what ended Evvy’s marriage.
There were a number of people in a local bar the night the young woman was murdered. Ian was there and so was Connor as he is a sous chef there. The police suspect Ian but have not arrested him. There could be many other suspects as well so no arrests have been made.
The story weaves into the lives of Caroline and Evvy and their children, Connor and Daisy. There are drugs being dealt in the community and people are concerned about that not knowing who is involved. Someone is holding onto the truth of what happened the night the woman was murdered.
This is a story of what happens in the lives of everyday people. It’s the trials they face, the family they love and protect, and the friends who will always support them. It makes for good reading.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 16, 2020
Set on an island where everyone knows everyone’s business. It’s cold and empty in the winter, except during the winter festival. A young woman is found dead, strangled. She had worked in a restaurant during the summer. Who killed her and why?
The island has as many secrets as it has inhabitants. The book is told from several perspectives. Two women, best friends, with one child each, and problems with the men in their lives. The youngsters in the family are adults, barely, and are struggling to find their way in life. Drugs are a big problem on the island, and turns out it has taken over more lives, and many unexpected people are involved in the business.
In this book it really works that the story is told from several perspectives. They are all so human, flawed, trying to keep it together, trying to survive. Everyone has a secret or two, and it’s not easy to keep them from others on the island. My favourite in the book is Daisy, one of the young adults. She has not had an easy life, losing her sister at a young age. Working with her mother, barely getting by, having a codependent relationship with a young man she’s known her whole life, trying to help him, because she knows his in trouble. And she’s looking for an escape route. She’s looking for a way out.
This is a slow suspense page-turner that hooked me on the first page. I usually prefer more action, police procedure, or psychological thrillers, but this book grabbed me with the pace of slow moving island life in the winter. There are so many layers to every character, and the layers peel off like an onion you are treating with a knife. I think this book would work really well as a TV series. It has all the possibilities of hooking a large audience.
I read it in two sittings, because I wanted to know whodunnit and what would happen to the main characters. There was a twist at the end, but I had already figured it out, the whodunnit part, by then. I think the author has captured the human mind, our way of thinking, protecting, excusing, forgiving, as well as questioning the choices we’ve made.
The island has as many secrets as it has inhabitants. The book is told from several perspectives. Two women, best friends, with one child each, and problems with the men in their lives. The youngsters in the family are adults, barely, and are struggling to find their way in life. Drugs are a big problem on the island, and turns out it has taken over more lives, and many unexpected people are involved in the business.
In this book it really works that the story is told from several perspectives. They are all so human, flawed, trying to keep it together, trying to survive. Everyone has a secret or two, and it’s not easy to keep them from others on the island. My favourite in the book is Daisy, one of the young adults. She has not had an easy life, losing her sister at a young age. Working with her mother, barely getting by, having a codependent relationship with a young man she’s known her whole life, trying to help him, because she knows his in trouble. And she’s looking for an escape route. She’s looking for a way out.
This is a slow suspense page-turner that hooked me on the first page. I usually prefer more action, police procedure, or psychological thrillers, but this book grabbed me with the pace of slow moving island life in the winter. There are so many layers to every character, and the layers peel off like an onion you are treating with a knife. I think this book would work really well as a TV series. It has all the possibilities of hooking a large audience.
I read it in two sittings, because I wanted to know whodunnit and what would happen to the main characters. There was a twist at the end, but I had already figured it out, the whodunnit part, by then. I think the author has captured the human mind, our way of thinking, protecting, excusing, forgiving, as well as questioning the choices we’ve made.
June 14, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. It really got under my skin and is one that will always stay with me. It is captivating, compelling, powerful and so heartbreaking. It was one that I could not tear myself away from, which resulted in my reading it in one sitting and is one that gave me a massive book hangover when I was done!
Emily has crafted a tale that grabbed my attention right from the outset. I was lost in its pages as I found myself also a member of the tight-knit community on the Island of Great Rock, watching from the sidelines as the drama all unfolded. I thought the book was very well structured as the story is told from the points of view from three of the characters and everything flowed as it should in the lead up to its emotional outcome that I did not see coming.
The characters have been perfectly created and apart from one, I found myself able to resonate with each in some way. They have been written so well and each brings to the table their own set of secrets that have been well hidden, but now threaten to rise to the surface. The setting of Great Rock is also like a character in itself and with its wintery and stormy weather sets the atmospheric tone brilliantly.
This is the first book that I have read from Emily Cavanagh and I need more! I immediately connected with her writing and I think that she is such a gifted storyteller. She has really put her heart and soul into this book, which shows all the way through from start to end and I didn’t realise how much the story and its outcome effected me, until the end as I felt the tears streaming down my face.
Everybody Lies is a stunning piece of work that is perfect in every way. It has been beautifully written and it is definitely up there with one of the best books that I have read this year. If I could give it more than 5 stars I would. It was my absolute pleasure to read and review Everybody Lies which I can not recommend highly enough.
Emily has crafted a tale that grabbed my attention right from the outset. I was lost in its pages as I found myself also a member of the tight-knit community on the Island of Great Rock, watching from the sidelines as the drama all unfolded. I thought the book was very well structured as the story is told from the points of view from three of the characters and everything flowed as it should in the lead up to its emotional outcome that I did not see coming.
The characters have been perfectly created and apart from one, I found myself able to resonate with each in some way. They have been written so well and each brings to the table their own set of secrets that have been well hidden, but now threaten to rise to the surface. The setting of Great Rock is also like a character in itself and with its wintery and stormy weather sets the atmospheric tone brilliantly.
This is the first book that I have read from Emily Cavanagh and I need more! I immediately connected with her writing and I think that she is such a gifted storyteller. She has really put her heart and soul into this book, which shows all the way through from start to end and I didn’t realise how much the story and its outcome effected me, until the end as I felt the tears streaming down my face.
Everybody Lies is a stunning piece of work that is perfect in every way. It has been beautifully written and it is definitely up there with one of the best books that I have read this year. If I could give it more than 5 stars I would. It was my absolute pleasure to read and review Everybody Lies which I can not recommend highly enough.
September 26, 2020
🌻 রিভিউ 🌻
আগামী মাসের ১৫ তারিখ প্রকাশিত হবে Emily Cavanagh এর রহস্য উপন্যাস 'Everybody Lies'। পাবলিশারের কাছ থেকে এডভান্সড রিডার/রিভিউ কপি (ইপাব ভার্সন) পাওয়ার সুবাদে গত দু'দিনে পড়ে ফেললাম বইটি।
কাহিনীসংক্ষেপঃ
গ্রেট রক ছোট্ট এক দ্বীপ। গ্রীষ্মকালে প্রচুর সীজনাল ট্যুরিস্টে জায়গাটা গমগম করলেও সীজন শেষে হয়ে পড়ে এক নিঃসঙ্গ জায়গা। গ্রেট রক এমন একটি স্থান যেখানে অধিকাংশ মানুষের জন্ম, বেড়ে উঠা আর মৃত্যু একজায়গাতেই, দ্বীপ থেকে দূরে কোথাও গিয়ে তারা স্বস্ত��বোধ করে না। সকল প্রতিবেশী একে অপরকে চেনে, কোথাও গেলেই পরিচিত হাজারো মুখের সামনে পড়তে হয়।
এমন জায়গায় এটাই স্বাভাবিক হবার কথা যে কারো কোনো কথা গোপন থাকে না, গুজব ছোটে বাতাসের আগে। কিন্তু আসলেই কি কথা গোপন করে না কেউ? বন্ধ দরজার পেছনের গল্পটা আসলে কিরকম?? এই ভুলে যাওয়া জায়গা যেখানে কখনো কিছুই ঘটে না সেখানে এক রাতে হয়ে গেল একটি খুন! যে মহিলাটি খুন হয়েছে সে গ্রেট রকের বাসিন্দা নয়, তবে অফ-সীজনে সে আইল্যান্ডে কি করছিলো?
খুনের ঘটনার পর থেকে একে একে ফাঁস হতে লাগলো সকলের গোমর। পরিবার পরিবারের কাছে মিথ্যে বলে যাচ্ছে, বন্ধু বন্ধুর কাছে। কেউই সন্দেহের আওতার বাইরে নয়।
পাঠ-প্রতিক্রিয়াঃ
ভালো দিক - দারুণ গ্রিপিং লেখা। বর্তমানকালে অনেক নতুন লেখক লেখিকাদের মধ্যে দেখছি লেখায় এমন একটা ছন্দোবদ্ধ ভাব থাকে যে পড়ার চেয়েও মনে হয় পৃষ্ঠাগুলোর মধ্য দিয়ে উড়ে যাচ্ছি - পড়তে খুব আরামদায়ক।
ডমেস্টিক এবইউজ এবং ড্রাগ এবইউজের বিরুদ্ধে মেসেজ। প্রথমটা ইদানীং অনেক দেখা গেলেও দ্বিতীয়টি নিয়ে বেশি লেখা পড়ি নি বা পাই নি। লেখিকার নোটেও ব্যাপারটির উল্লেখ ছিল।
খারাপ দিক - কয়েকটা চরিত্রগুলো প্রচণ্ড ইরিটেটিং। জানি না ইচ্ছা করেই এভাবে চরিত্র সাজানো হয়েছে নাকি আমার কাছে মনে হয়েছে। কিছু জায়গায় খানিকটা ধীরগতির মনে হয়েছে, এমন কিছু বিষয় দিয়ে টানা হয়েছে যেগুলোর আসল গল্পে তেমন কোনো ভূমিকা নেই।
ওভার-অল মতামত - একদম অস্থির সাসপেন্স থ্রিলার টাইপ কিছু নয়, কিন্তু সুখপাঠ্য ছিল। যতোটুকু সময় পড়েছি বেশ উপভোগই করেছি৷
আগামী মাসের ১৫ তারিখ প্রকাশিত হবে Emily Cavanagh এর রহস্য উপন্যাস 'Everybody Lies'। পাবলিশারের কাছ থেকে এডভান্সড রিডার/রিভিউ কপি (ইপাব ভার্সন) পাওয়ার সুবাদে গত দু'দিনে পড়ে ফেললাম বইটি।
কাহিনীসংক্ষেপঃ
গ্রেট রক ছোট্ট এক দ্বীপ। গ্রীষ্মকালে প্রচুর সীজনাল ট্যুরিস্টে জায়গাটা গমগম করলেও সীজন শেষে হয়ে পড়ে এক নিঃসঙ্গ জায়গা। গ্রেট রক এমন একটি স্থান যেখানে অধিকাংশ মানুষের জন্ম, বেড়ে উঠা আর মৃত্যু একজায়গাতেই, দ্বীপ থেকে দূরে কোথাও গিয়ে তারা স্বস্ত��বোধ করে না। সকল প্রতিবেশী একে অপরকে চেনে, কোথাও গেলেই পরিচিত হাজারো মুখের সামনে পড়তে হয়।
এমন জায়গায় এটাই স্বাভাবিক হবার কথা যে কারো কোনো কথা গোপন থাকে না, গুজব ছোটে বাতাসের আগে। কিন্তু আসলেই কি কথা গোপন করে না কেউ? বন্ধ দরজার পেছনের গল্পটা আসলে কিরকম?? এই ভুলে যাওয়া জায়গা যেখানে কখনো কিছুই ঘটে না সেখানে এক রাতে হয়ে গেল একটি খুন! যে মহিলাটি খুন হয়েছে সে গ্রেট রকের বাসিন্দা নয়, তবে অফ-সীজনে সে আইল্যান্ডে কি করছিলো?
খুনের ঘটনার পর থেকে একে একে ফাঁস হতে লাগলো সকলের গোমর। পরিবার পরিবারের কাছে মিথ্যে বলে যাচ্ছে, বন্ধু বন্ধুর কাছে। কেউই সন্দেহের আওতার বাইরে নয়।
পাঠ-প্রতিক্রিয়াঃ
ভালো দিক - দারুণ গ্রিপিং লেখা। বর্তমানকালে অনেক নতুন লেখক লেখিকাদের মধ্যে দেখছি লেখায় এমন একটা ছন্দোবদ্ধ ভাব থাকে যে পড়ার চেয়েও মনে হয় পৃষ্ঠাগুলোর মধ্য দিয়ে উড়ে যাচ্ছি - পড়তে খুব আরামদায়ক।
ডমেস্টিক এবইউজ এবং ড্রাগ এবইউজের বিরুদ্ধে মেসেজ। প্রথমটা ইদানীং অনেক দেখা গেলেও দ্বিতীয়টি নিয়ে বেশি লেখা পড়ি নি বা পাই নি। লেখিকার নোটেও ব্যাপারটির উল্লেখ ছিল।
খারাপ দিক - কয়েকটা চরিত্রগুলো প্রচণ্ড ইরিটেটিং। জানি না ইচ্ছা করেই এভাবে চরিত্র সাজানো হয়েছে নাকি আমার কাছে মনে হয়েছে। কিছু জায়গায় খানিকটা ধীরগতির মনে হয়েছে, এমন কিছু বিষয় দিয়ে টানা হয়েছে যেগুলোর আসল গল্পে তেমন কোনো ভূমিকা নেই।
ওভার-অল মতামত - একদম অস্থির সাসপেন্স থ্রিলার টাইপ কিছু নয়, কিন্তু সুখপাঠ্য ছিল। যতোটুকু সময় পড়েছি বেশ উপভোগই করেছি৷
September 20, 2020
Everybody Lies by Emily Cavanagh is told from three women's POV who live on Great Rock island. Great Rock is a magnet for summer tourists and dead (pardon the pun) during the winter months. When a woman who worked on the island in the summertime is found dead on the beach, everyone in this small, close knit community is pointing fingers.
Caroline is married to the island's police chief who has recently moved out of the family home. Her son rarely comes around and he looks more and more lost each time she sees him. She is shocked by the murder especially when she learns the dead woman worked with her son.
Evvy is Caroline's best friend. More like family really. Her boyfriend has been arrested for the murder but she knows he is innocent. She is trying to keep her head above water with her business, being a friend for Caroline, keeping up with her collage-age daughter and worrying about what will happen to her boyfriend.
Evvy's daughter Daisy loves Caroline like a second mom. She sometimes dates Caroline's son, Connor, and she sees he is going downhill fast. This murder has everyone in this small town shaken up. Daisy is doing her best to figure out her feelings for Connor and find a way off the island.
Everybody Lies is a page turner with a twist ending. As a reader, I knew not everything was as it seemed on the surface, but the ending made me sad for so many of the characters. These people were well-written and came to life for me. I was rooting for their happiness - Caroline's marriage, Evvy's love problems and Daisy's dreams of going to college. This book was very good and I didn't want to put it down.
I received an ARC from NetGalley
Caroline is married to the island's police chief who has recently moved out of the family home. Her son rarely comes around and he looks more and more lost each time she sees him. She is shocked by the murder especially when she learns the dead woman worked with her son.
Evvy is Caroline's best friend. More like family really. Her boyfriend has been arrested for the murder but she knows he is innocent. She is trying to keep her head above water with her business, being a friend for Caroline, keeping up with her collage-age daughter and worrying about what will happen to her boyfriend.
Evvy's daughter Daisy loves Caroline like a second mom. She sometimes dates Caroline's son, Connor, and she sees he is going downhill fast. This murder has everyone in this small town shaken up. Daisy is doing her best to figure out her feelings for Connor and find a way off the island.
Everybody Lies is a page turner with a twist ending. As a reader, I knew not everything was as it seemed on the surface, but the ending made me sad for so many of the characters. These people were well-written and came to life for me. I was rooting for their happiness - Caroline's marriage, Evvy's love problems and Daisy's dreams of going to college. This book was very good and I didn't want to put it down.
I received an ARC from NetGalley
October 9, 2020
Thank You Netgalley and Bookouture for this ARC! This review is based on my honest opinion.
In a nutshell, a woman named Layla Dresser was found strangled on the beaches of a sleepy island, Great Rock. The story actually tells about how the murder of this girl had affected the lives on the people living in the island, particularly the lives of the three women--Caroline, Ennvy and Daisy.
The story is realistic and well written though I should say there were some parts in the story that was a bit boring. The story is told from the perspectives of Caroline, who is dealing with the separation of her husband, Jack, who is the chief of police in the area and whose son, Connor is suffering from drug addiction, Ennvy, who is in a relationship with a man named Ian, who is the suspect of the woman's murder and who is suffering from domestic abuse and Daisy, Ennvy's daughter and Connor's friend. It's actually interesting to know what each of these women think about this whole situation but I thought it was a bit unnecessary to highlight more on Daisy and her developing relationship with Todd. I like how the author did a good job of highlighting about how parents deal with their children who are addicted to drugs, the dangers of drug addiction and at what length they would do to protect their children from drugs. So I would say the author did a good job making the story realistic as possible. Some parts of the story captivated the reader and sometimes, it was a bit emotional story.
Overall, it was a good story. Worth three stars however.
In a nutshell, a woman named Layla Dresser was found strangled on the beaches of a sleepy island, Great Rock. The story actually tells about how the murder of this girl had affected the lives on the people living in the island, particularly the lives of the three women--Caroline, Ennvy and Daisy.
The story is realistic and well written though I should say there were some parts in the story that was a bit boring. The story is told from the perspectives of Caroline, who is dealing with the separation of her husband, Jack, who is the chief of police in the area and whose son, Connor is suffering from drug addiction, Ennvy, who is in a relationship with a man named Ian, who is the suspect of the woman's murder and who is suffering from domestic abuse and Daisy, Ennvy's daughter and Connor's friend. It's actually interesting to know what each of these women think about this whole situation but I thought it was a bit unnecessary to highlight more on Daisy and her developing relationship with Todd. I like how the author did a good job of highlighting about how parents deal with their children who are addicted to drugs, the dangers of drug addiction and at what length they would do to protect their children from drugs. So I would say the author did a good job making the story realistic as possible. Some parts of the story captivated the reader and sometimes, it was a bit emotional story.
Overall, it was a good story. Worth three stars however.
September 28, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of "Everybody Lies" in exchange for an honest review.
This book was written in 3 voices: Caroline, her bestfriend Evvy and Evvy's 20 year old daughter Daisy. A woman named Layla Dresser is killed on Osprey Beach on Great Rock Island. Caroline's husband Jack Doherty is the police chief on the island. He tells Caroline that he's coming over to talk and she believes that they are finally going to talk about their separation and possible divorce. Instead he tells her about a young woman found strangled on the beach.
Evvy and her husband Cyrus divorced after the death of their daughter Serena. For the past 6 years she has been living with Ian. He beats her but she stays because she doesn't want to be alone. When Ian is arrested for killing Layla she starts to think about her life. Did Ian really do this? Is he capable of murder? Or is he a handy fallguy for some else.
Someone is bringing drugs on the island and Caroline and Jack's 21 year old son Connor is an addict. Are the drugs linked to Layla's murder? She did not live on the island and why would she be visiting in the middle of winter.
A surprise end to the story brings new paths for everyone. A bit confusing to read with the switching of characters and seeing whose voice is being used. Also moved quite slowly in parts.
This book was written in 3 voices: Caroline, her bestfriend Evvy and Evvy's 20 year old daughter Daisy. A woman named Layla Dresser is killed on Osprey Beach on Great Rock Island. Caroline's husband Jack Doherty is the police chief on the island. He tells Caroline that he's coming over to talk and she believes that they are finally going to talk about their separation and possible divorce. Instead he tells her about a young woman found strangled on the beach.
Evvy and her husband Cyrus divorced after the death of their daughter Serena. For the past 6 years she has been living with Ian. He beats her but she stays because she doesn't want to be alone. When Ian is arrested for killing Layla she starts to think about her life. Did Ian really do this? Is he capable of murder? Or is he a handy fallguy for some else.
Someone is bringing drugs on the island and Caroline and Jack's 21 year old son Connor is an addict. Are the drugs linked to Layla's murder? She did not live on the island and why would she be visiting in the middle of winter.
A surprise end to the story brings new paths for everyone. A bit confusing to read with the switching of characters and seeing whose voice is being used. Also moved quite slowly in parts.
November 13, 2020
A young woman is murdered in a small town. The police are investigating but personal relationships and the interconnected community make it tricky to discover the truth.
The plot of Everybody Lies is delivered through 3 narrative perspectives: Caroline, Evvy and Daisy. Caroline and Evvy are friends and both were married to police officers. Now Caroline's marriage is facing a trial separation and Evvy has divorced Cyrus but is probably still in love with him. Daisy is Evvy's daughter and sort of dating Caroline's son.
The murder is of secondary importance. We see little of the victim or the investigation, just the impact on the three main women and therefore their families. I felt that the women were realistic as were the dilemmas they face. The first person narrative for eachpoint of view helps the reader to identify with the women's feelings and understand their actions.
This book was a slow burner due to the establishment of the relationships and character development. So many of the characters are keeping secrets and lying, creating plot twists and turns which are gripping to read. The shocking revelations develop gradually over the course of the book and the ending was completely unexpected.
Everybody Lies was an enjoyable book with plenty of emotion and drama.
The plot of Everybody Lies is delivered through 3 narrative perspectives: Caroline, Evvy and Daisy. Caroline and Evvy are friends and both were married to police officers. Now Caroline's marriage is facing a trial separation and Evvy has divorced Cyrus but is probably still in love with him. Daisy is Evvy's daughter and sort of dating Caroline's son.
The murder is of secondary importance. We see little of the victim or the investigation, just the impact on the three main women and therefore their families. I felt that the women were realistic as were the dilemmas they face. The first person narrative for eachpoint of view helps the reader to identify with the women's feelings and understand their actions.
This book was a slow burner due to the establishment of the relationships and character development. So many of the characters are keeping secrets and lying, creating plot twists and turns which are gripping to read. The shocking revelations develop gradually over the course of the book and the ending was completely unexpected.
Everybody Lies was an enjoyable book with plenty of emotion and drama.
September 6, 2020
Shockwaves are sent through the community when the body of a dead girl is found on the beach. When the identity of the dead girl is revealed the community is shocked to its core. The girl had spent the previous summer working on the island. When Evvy’s partner Ian is accused of murder, she realises just how many secrets everyone has been keeping. In the end secrets always have a way of coming back to haunt you.
A Heartbreaking, unforgettable and captivating story told through the eyes of three strong women. Once I started reading this book I just couldn’t put it down because I needed to know the truth. I wish I never finished the book because the ending was such a shocking twist. It actually was a great ending, but I really liked that character for some reason so I was a bit sad. I just believe that there were worse characters that deserved that fate.
Please be aware that there are themes of violence including domestic violence, drugs and murder.
I would definitely recommend this book because it really is an amazing book.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and this is my honest opinion.
A Heartbreaking, unforgettable and captivating story told through the eyes of three strong women. Once I started reading this book I just couldn’t put it down because I needed to know the truth. I wish I never finished the book because the ending was such a shocking twist. It actually was a great ending, but I really liked that character for some reason so I was a bit sad. I just believe that there were worse characters that deserved that fate.
Please be aware that there are themes of violence including domestic violence, drugs and murder.
I would definitely recommend this book because it really is an amazing book.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and this is my honest opinion.
September 13, 2020
I totally enjoyed the perspectives of Evvy, Caroline and Daisy. The story was told through two friends and Evvy’s grown up daughter, Daisy. The book starts with a fantastic hook. A young woman is walking along a beach at night and I felt my skin prickle when she discovered that she wasn’t alone. It had me screaming in my head, ‘run, turn back...’
This is a story packed with family drama and it keeps on coming right up until the end. I couldn’t have easily predicted the shocking ending. I really thought I had it sussed but there were so many secrets, and my views on who was suspect bounced here, there, and everywhere.
The ‘Great Rock’ island setting in the bleak winter months was a fantastic backdrop for the murder. The island had a claustrophobic feel to it and the characters built on that theme through their circumstances, their different experiences and levels of loneliness, and the oncoming storm.
I think anyone who enjoys a well written mystery with bags of exciting drama, relatable characters and a fantastic setting will love ‘Everybody Lies.’ I thoroughly enjoyed it. Fab read!
This is a story packed with family drama and it keeps on coming right up until the end. I couldn’t have easily predicted the shocking ending. I really thought I had it sussed but there were so many secrets, and my views on who was suspect bounced here, there, and everywhere.
The ‘Great Rock’ island setting in the bleak winter months was a fantastic backdrop for the murder. The island had a claustrophobic feel to it and the characters built on that theme through their circumstances, their different experiences and levels of loneliness, and the oncoming storm.
I think anyone who enjoys a well written mystery with bags of exciting drama, relatable characters and a fantastic setting will love ‘Everybody Lies.’ I thoroughly enjoyed it. Fab read!
October 30, 2020
Everybody Lies by Emily Cavanagh is a suspense thriller that is set on the island of Great Rock in America.It is an island on which everybody knows everybody, any business is known by everybody. An island that only livens up in the winter, during the Winter Festival. This island has many secretd and so do the residents and this becomes clear after a woman who worked in a restaurant is found strangled. The question is whose secrets include killing her?
The story is told from mutiple points of view Caroline, Evvy and Daisy. I enjoy a story told this way due to gaining a wider picture and having different views on the story, I feel like I can really get to know the characters.It is a
book with a few differing story threads that Emily Cavanagh cleverly weaves together into a book that is a slow burner to begin but has so much going on you want to read what may happen next.She has packed secrets, mystery, lies, murder and crime into one book that hooks you in and keeps you turning the pages. Her characters are all well fleshed out and believable so adds to the suspense within the story.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for my copy of the book to write this review today.
The story is told from mutiple points of view Caroline, Evvy and Daisy. I enjoy a story told this way due to gaining a wider picture and having different views on the story, I feel like I can really get to know the characters.It is a
book with a few differing story threads that Emily Cavanagh cleverly weaves together into a book that is a slow burner to begin but has so much going on you want to read what may happen next.She has packed secrets, mystery, lies, murder and crime into one book that hooks you in and keeps you turning the pages. Her characters are all well fleshed out and believable so adds to the suspense within the story.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for my copy of the book to write this review today.
October 12, 2020
Everybody lies takes place on the island of Great Rock, a small island that booms in the summer months, and shrinks to the locals in the winter months. A girl is found murdered on the beach after a festival and the whole community is shaken, wanting to believe the murderer left with the last ferry that night. Examining secrets kept between and within two families and the impact the opioid crisis can have on a family and a community, this book is gripping and keeps you engaged from the word go.
I loved this book and cannot recommend it enough. It's heavy, not just with the topic of drug use, but also with the realities of lives that didn't end up as planned, wanting to break free and yet being held back by the past. Despite it's heaviness, the story moves well, the writing is fantastic and the characters are incredibly relatable and real. I didn't see the murderer's identity coming, and the heartbreak of the reveal was something I felt deep within. I give it 4 stars and would recommend it to anyone looking for a thriller with incredibly realistic elements.
I loved this book and cannot recommend it enough. It's heavy, not just with the topic of drug use, but also with the realities of lives that didn't end up as planned, wanting to break free and yet being held back by the past. Despite it's heaviness, the story moves well, the writing is fantastic and the characters are incredibly relatable and real. I didn't see the murderer's identity coming, and the heartbreak of the reveal was something I felt deep within. I give it 4 stars and would recommend it to anyone looking for a thriller with incredibly realistic elements.
December 10, 2020
I read this book in 2 days. I just couldn't help it!!
I love when you read a book with golden lines. They give an insight/description of life that is so on point, you just have to stop and read it over and over. I thought Everybody Lies was full of those. Some examples being:
p. 191 "Great Rock is a place that time forgot . . .
I love the description of memory on p. 128.
How the closest Jack will come to therapy is drinking herbal tea. (LOl!)
The explanation behind Conor & Daisy's relationship and Evvy & Caroline's relationship on p. 185.
I felt like Cavanagh captured the opioid crisis and brought it home for all who have not experienced it first hand. The topic was heavy but the reading was still easy and pleasurable. I really wish I could actually go to Moby Dick's-- a restaurant and frequent setting in the book.
As an islander, I can say Cavanagh really nails island living! Her success at this reminded me of N.K. Galland's "On the Same Page," which is another highly nuanced and astute--yet till fun-- novel.
I hear Cavanagh has a 4th book coming out soon. CANNOT WAIT!!
I love when you read a book with golden lines. They give an insight/description of life that is so on point, you just have to stop and read it over and over. I thought Everybody Lies was full of those. Some examples being:
p. 191 "Great Rock is a place that time forgot . . .
I love the description of memory on p. 128.
How the closest Jack will come to therapy is drinking herbal tea. (LOl!)
The explanation behind Conor & Daisy's relationship and Evvy & Caroline's relationship on p. 185.
I felt like Cavanagh captured the opioid crisis and brought it home for all who have not experienced it first hand. The topic was heavy but the reading was still easy and pleasurable. I really wish I could actually go to Moby Dick's-- a restaurant and frequent setting in the book.
As an islander, I can say Cavanagh really nails island living! Her success at this reminded me of N.K. Galland's "On the Same Page," which is another highly nuanced and astute--yet till fun-- novel.
I hear Cavanagh has a 4th book coming out soon. CANNOT WAIT!!
October 15, 2020
Everybody lies… That is a truism even though some people might claim they never do. I, on the other hand, think they are lying, because you just do. Little white lies to protect yourself or someone else or you do it to keep some dark secrets from surfacing.
Keeping secrets in a big city is a lot easier than in a village or a small island, but some do keep hidden for a very long time. And when those liars come clean, it’s devastating for their entourage.
Sometimes you want to escape from this suffocating place where everybody knows (almost) all your business, but when you have the chance to do so, that’s when you realize how much you would miss it when you are gone. Shall you stay or shall you go…?
A beautiful story that opens with a shocking event, but that’s not the only thing that is going on. Love, denial, heartbreak and friendship are only a few of the emotions that the author used to enthrall her readers. 5 stars.
Thank you, Emily Cavanagh and Bookouture
Keeping secrets in a big city is a lot easier than in a village or a small island, but some do keep hidden for a very long time. And when those liars come clean, it’s devastating for their entourage.
Sometimes you want to escape from this suffocating place where everybody knows (almost) all your business, but when you have the chance to do so, that’s when you realize how much you would miss it when you are gone. Shall you stay or shall you go…?
A beautiful story that opens with a shocking event, but that’s not the only thing that is going on. Love, denial, heartbreak and friendship are only a few of the emotions that the author used to enthrall her readers. 5 stars.
Thank you, Emily Cavanagh and Bookouture
September 13, 2020
The setting of the book is a small island on the East coast. It primarily involves two families that have been friends for years. A girl is killed on the island and the father of one of the families is the chief of police. He questions everyone, including the long term boyfriend of the other family’s mom. As the story unfolds, the lies keep coming.
This story has a lot of character, each family has two parents and one child and there is an ex husband also. Everyone but the ex has a chance to tell a portion of the story. I love books that are told by more than one character because you find out so much more about the characters but I feel this book had too many viewpoints. I had to check who’s chapter I was reading more than once.
Despite this difficultly I enjoyed the book. It spoke of a families love for themselves and their friends.
This story has a lot of character, each family has two parents and one child and there is an ex husband also. Everyone but the ex has a chance to tell a portion of the story. I love books that are told by more than one character because you find out so much more about the characters but I feel this book had too many viewpoints. I had to check who’s chapter I was reading more than once.
Despite this difficultly I enjoyed the book. It spoke of a families love for themselves and their friends.
October 19, 2020
“Page-turner” definitely describes this book, but not in a thrilling, seat-of-your-pants way. Rather, it was unwinding tension that slowly crept up, making me wonder if anyone was telling anyone else the truth. The author starts with the murder of a young woman and spirals the story out from that point. Each character has a connection to the woman and some of those are more obvious than others. The story is told in alternating points of view between the three female characters, and I thought that the character development was extremely well-done. Once the case is solved, all that’s left is for the characters to pick up the pieces. I would definitely recommend this family drama story for taut storytelling and sharp commentary on the lies we all tell. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for a digital ARC of the book.
November 1, 2020
Two families, torn apart by their own and differing grief still come together. When a young girl is found dead on the beach, will the small town find out what happened? The island town is busy in Summer but this is Winter, why was she there?
Evvy and Caroline have been friends for over twenty years and each going through their own heartbreak. Evvy lost a daughter years ago and has a troubled relationship her living daughter Daisy. Caroline is worried about her grown up son Connor, and both ladies are separated from their husbands, both police officers on the Island.
I found the book to have a good pace, and an easy read. Told from Caroline, Daisy and Evvy, we learn history and current times as the pieces are knotted together with a good twist at the end.
Evvy and Caroline have been friends for over twenty years and each going through their own heartbreak. Evvy lost a daughter years ago and has a troubled relationship her living daughter Daisy. Caroline is worried about her grown up son Connor, and both ladies are separated from their husbands, both police officers on the Island.
I found the book to have a good pace, and an easy read. Told from Caroline, Daisy and Evvy, we learn history and current times as the pieces are knotted together with a good twist at the end.
September 20, 2020
A story of two families set in an island off the Atlantic where everyone knows everybody and the goings on in their lives. Told through the three women, the older women are weak and dependent on men while the younger one is more bold. Though brought up in different places and backgrounds there is not much of a difference between the two mothers. The story meanders around them and jumps to a conclusion abruptly with nothing much to add about the circumstances that brought the change. The pace of the story kept me into finishing the book. I feel there is something incomplete or lacking in between. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for an arc.
October 9, 2020
Everybody Lies is a book told from three different points of view. Caroline, Evvy and her daughter Daisy. They live on a small island off of Massachusetts. Being on an island, also a small town, makes it difficult to keep secrets. But most of these people do to some extent or at the very least not everyone knows the whole story of each of the people involved. These people experience death of a child, drug abuse, divorce, and physical abuse and they all think no one knows what is going on. The discovery of a young women murdered is a pivotal point in each of these women and their families. There will be heartbreak, love, and personal growth for all.
October 21, 2020
This book was a bit different to what I expected to it to be. But I absolutely loved it. It had me gripped.
I love stories based in small communities because they are always very tight knit and it is so hard to keep secrets but there are always some that get well hidden. But secrets will always be revealed in the end.
I love the concept of the rotating three perspectives. You really get to know Caroline, Evvy and Daisy. There were secrets being revealed right from the start that kept me turning the pages until I got to the end.
I didnt suspect the main person for the crime at all, and this made me love it even more.
I love stories based in small communities because they are always very tight knit and it is so hard to keep secrets but there are always some that get well hidden. But secrets will always be revealed in the end.
I love the concept of the rotating three perspectives. You really get to know Caroline, Evvy and Daisy. There were secrets being revealed right from the start that kept me turning the pages until I got to the end.
I didnt suspect the main person for the crime at all, and this made me love it even more.
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