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Tell Me Lies
Shortlisted for Ned Kelly Best Crime Novel
Shortlisted for Ngaio Marsh Best Crime Novel
Margot’s clients all lie to her, but one lie could cost her family and freedom.
Psychologist Margot Scott has a picture-perfect life: a nice house in the suburbs, a husband, two children, and a successful career. On a warm spring morning, Margot spots one of her clients on a busy train platform. He is looking down at his phone, with his duffel bag in hand as the train approaches. That’s when she slams into his back and he falls in front of the train. Suddenly, one tragedy leads to another leaving her, her family, and her patients in danger. As misfortune unfolds, listeners will soon question Margot’s true role in all of these unfortunate events.
Tell Me Lies is a fast-paced, psychological, whodunit mystery that will leave listeners wondering if anyone can actually be trusted.
Shortlisted for Ngaio Marsh Best Crime Novel
Margot’s clients all lie to her, but one lie could cost her family and freedom.
Psychologist Margot Scott has a picture-perfect life: a nice house in the suburbs, a husband, two children, and a successful career. On a warm spring morning, Margot spots one of her clients on a busy train platform. He is looking down at his phone, with his duffel bag in hand as the train approaches. That’s when she slams into his back and he falls in front of the train. Suddenly, one tragedy leads to another leaving her, her family, and her patients in danger. As misfortune unfolds, listeners will soon question Margot’s true role in all of these unfortunate events.
Tell Me Lies is a fast-paced, psychological, whodunit mystery that will leave listeners wondering if anyone can actually be trusted.
215 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 6, 2020
477 people are currently reading
10137 people want to read
About the author
J.P. Pomare
12 books1,386 followersJ. P. Pomare is a New Zealand author who lives in Melbourne, Australia.
He is the author of a number of critically acclaimed and best-selling novels including Seventeen Years Later, Tell Me Lies, and The Wrong Woman.
His novel In The Clearing was adapted for the screen as an eight part miniseries by Disney (The Clearing) and The Last Guests (Watching You) has been adapted as a series by Stan.
He is the author of a number of critically acclaimed and best-selling novels including Seventeen Years Later, Tell Me Lies, and The Wrong Woman.
His novel In The Clearing was adapted for the screen as an eight part miniseries by Disney (The Clearing) and The Last Guests (Watching You) has been adapted as a series by Stan.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 2,380 reviews
May 21, 2020
Wow wow wow, amé este audiolibro. NO ME ESPERABA NADA DE LO QUE PASÓ. Shock tras shock tras shock. Incluso en los últimos 30 segundos fue de: WHAT ESPERA QUÉ.
Jajaja pero repito, nunca leo thrillers entonces siento que me sorprendo con todo, oops.
Jajaja pero repito, nunca leo thrillers entonces siento que me sorprendo con todo, oops.
March 11, 2020
This was an Audible Freebie and one of the best I've chosen. It was very well paced, not too predictable, and I was able to feel some empathy with some of the characters. I was a bit confused at a couple points and had to rewind to understand some minor points, also- and this is super petty, but there's a character whose name is July which, for some reason, didn't sit well with me- every time that character came up I found myself thinking about how ridiculous I thought it was- I know it's silly but it was a distraction. Other then that I enjoyed this audio version, the narrator did a great job- it is an Australian book so the narrator has that accent. I'm so glad this didn't follow the " gone girl, women in the...the couple at the....the wife that..." formula It was a bit more unique as far as today's domestic thrillers go..It was a pretty quick listen at 6 and some hrs - super glad I picked this.I am definitely going to look into the author's other books that are out and hope they're good as well.
March 7, 2020
Dude! This book was awesome, honestly one of the best audiobooks I’ve listened to and I normally strongly dislike the Audible Originals. I’m a huge fan of thrillers in general but this book is definitely in my top three. I loved all of the connections and twenty minutes before the end of the book I had determined that I really hated the ending; I finished the book and loved it. Great ending. Very captivating book.
August 18, 2024
“Tell Me Lies” by J.P. Pomare centers on a character who seems to have it all together until a public killing turns their life upside down. The narrative then unravels the how and why behind the crime.
I was initially drawn in, especially during the prologue where the crime unfolds. I found myself standing at the exact train station, doing exactly what the victim was doing—gazing down at my phone. That eerie parallel made the experience quite intriguing.
However, the story soon lost its grip on me. The plot felt predictable, and none of the twists caught me off guard. Perhaps it's because I’ve read something with a similar structure before. What really hindered my enjoyment, though, was my disconnect from the characters. I don’t need to like the characters to appreciate a book, but I do need to find their story or the plot engaging—and in this case, I didn’t.
I was initially drawn in, especially during the prologue where the crime unfolds. I found myself standing at the exact train station, doing exactly what the victim was doing—gazing down at my phone. That eerie parallel made the experience quite intriguing.
However, the story soon lost its grip on me. The plot felt predictable, and none of the twists caught me off guard. Perhaps it's because I’ve read something with a similar structure before. What really hindered my enjoyment, though, was my disconnect from the characters. I don’t need to like the characters to appreciate a book, but I do need to find their story or the plot engaging—and in this case, I didn’t.
October 19, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
What a plot twist, Joshua! I like that this author tells his stories through a range of voices and that some of them are unreliable narrators. This is a bit of a slow burn but then things become quite tense when the complexity of the problem ramps up a few notches. Crossing boundaries is not one of my favourite tropes as it comes with a degree of annoyance and a side of SERIOUSLY! Overall an entertaining thriller and the last 1/3 was fantastic.
What a plot twist, Joshua! I like that this author tells his stories through a range of voices and that some of them are unreliable narrators. This is a bit of a slow burn but then things become quite tense when the complexity of the problem ramps up a few notches. Crossing boundaries is not one of my favourite tropes as it comes with a degree of annoyance and a side of SERIOUSLY! Overall an entertaining thriller and the last 1/3 was fantastic.
March 8, 2020
This was a page-turner that did not disappoint! I listened to the audio, and the reader was excellent!
June 14, 2021
(3.5 rounded up.) The story grabs you right away & doesn’t let up. Even though I found some aspects to be somewhat predictable, it was still entertaining. The audiobook was really well done- I devoured this in a day.
May 11, 2021
What a roller coaster this was! This is a fast-paced thriller that kept me guessing throughout. The story is dark, disturbing, and suspenseful. If you're looking for a thriller with an intense plot and lots of twists, I recommend this one.
April 2, 2020
Another twisty and addictive story from JP Pomare. I listened to this in a day. I had no idea where this was going, right until the very end.
Highly recommend this quick read.
Highly recommend this quick read.
December 22, 2020
I don’t really know what to say about these books. These psychological thrillers coming out every week like newly sprouted mushrooms. I almost always know going in that I’ll feel let down by how predictable so much of it will be. I read them because they’re ok for entertainment and as a way to keep myself from ruminating on useless thought patterns. But they just seem so tame somehow. Nicely packaged thrills & chills.
She’s particularly interested in antisocial types, this head doctor of ours—psychopaths and narcissists without empathy. So of course she’s having to duke it out with her own fascination with people who like harming others. I just knew all along I was being manipulated, just like so many of these books feel. Particularly the ones from the last decade or so. They’re all trying to be the next Gone Girl and knowing ahead of time there’ll be a twist in the end is pretty much of a built-in spoiler, isn’t it? Three stars means I liked it. Four stars is love. It was okay, but you might find it satisfies just fine.
She’s particularly interested in antisocial types, this head doctor of ours—psychopaths and narcissists without empathy. So of course she’s having to duke it out with her own fascination with people who like harming others. I just knew all along I was being manipulated, just like so many of these books feel. Particularly the ones from the last decade or so. They’re all trying to be the next Gone Girl and knowing ahead of time there’ll be a twist in the end is pretty much of a built-in spoiler, isn’t it? Three stars means I liked it. Four stars is love. It was okay, but you might find it satisfies just fine.
March 6, 2020
4.5 Stars
My Jaw is still on the floor
The best twists you really don't see coming.
I found this a nice read until half way through, then boom a big twist.
Then I thought "no more twists" then I got another slap in the face. A great listen, but one you must listen to all the way through.
My Jaw is still on the floor
The best twists you really don't see coming.
I found this a nice read until half way through, then boom a big twist.
Then I thought "no more twists" then I got another slap in the face. A great listen, but one you must listen to all the way through.
October 17, 2020
DNF 50 %. Crossing professional boundaries - one of my pet hates. I'm sure it's leading to some plot twist of sorts, but I really don't care enough about any of the characters to find out.
The narration was puzzling at times. Why bother to go through the effort of simulating a phone call (with ringing and altered voice like it's over a phone line) for supposed realism just to have the voice being of the incorrect gender?
The narration was puzzling at times. Why bother to go through the effort of simulating a phone call (with ringing and altered voice like it's over a phone line) for supposed realism just to have the voice being of the incorrect gender?
April 3, 2020
One of the worst books I have listened to in a long time. The only reason why I listened to it is because I am currently the only person in my office since the virus is keeping everyone at home, but I am essential.
As a Psychologist, Margot doesn't seem to understand human nature. She doesn't seem to be able to recognize manipulation. The book is written like a poorly made for tv movie, the main character who is supposed to be the best in field, but misses every clue that is thrown toward her. I'm not sure making your main character seem like a first year newbie is the best way to draw a character.
As a Psychologist, Margot doesn't seem to understand human nature. She doesn't seem to be able to recognize manipulation. The book is written like a poorly made for tv movie, the main character who is supposed to be the best in field, but misses every clue that is thrown toward her. I'm not sure making your main character seem like a first year newbie is the best way to draw a character.
February 27, 2021
Audio - 4 Stars
Story - 4.25 Stars
Story - 4.25 Stars
March 9, 2020
I rarely actually leave reviews, just usually star ratings. So you know the book touched me in some way! I want to give this book way more than five stars. It starts out building suspense and just when you think you’ve got it figured out, bam! Plot twist. And so your sitting there listening and you’re like “oh wow, I know how all this is going to end” and then you don’t. The ending comes out of nowhere and just leaves you stunned. Damn good read. Definitely recommend.
March 8, 2020
I started reading this book in the evening and found myself wide eyed and awake in the cold morning hours finishing it, unable to stop. The narrator was fantastic and this is hands down the best Audible original I have ever found.
May 5, 2020
DNF
I couldn't get past the main character constantly talking about her ethical responsibility and acting the exact opposite way. She was supposed to be the best in her field and she acted like she had no training.
I couldn't get past the main character constantly talking about her ethical responsibility and acting the exact opposite way. She was supposed to be the best in her field and she acted like she had no training.
March 21, 2020
I really recommend this book it’s crazy, but I’m pretty sure you guys will like it. Cannot believe the ending it was so shocking..
March 8, 2020
A terrific psychological thriller. Narrated with the preciseness that most novels lack.
August 4, 2024
ANOTHER PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER THAT I LOVED.
PLOT TWIST REALLY SCREWED UP WITH ME.
PLOT TWIST REALLY SCREWED UP WITH ME.
February 12, 2025
This was another book where I tasked the Audible AI search function to find me a thriller with lots of unexpected twists. The last time I requested that, I ended up with Triptych by Karin Slaughter, which I loved! This time around it wasn't instant love.
I had a difficult time getting into the story. I saw a story about a therapist making poor choices and, well, no wonder things go wrong! But then somewhere around the middle of the book things start getting interesting. There were so many plot twists. Some I saw coming, but others completely blindsided me. The overall story was good.
And then there was the end, which I can't get into without spoilers. But I saw major problems with it. If you've read the book and want to know my thoughts, I'll hide them here. Otherwise, please keep reading. :)
Ok! Now that I have THAT out of my system, I am giving Tell Me Lies three stars. The slow start and the ending that didn't sit well with me pulled it down from four to three. It was good. Many loved it. It just wasn't one of my favorites. But I hope my next thriller is better! Happy reading!
I had a difficult time getting into the story. I saw a story about a therapist making poor choices and, well, no wonder things go wrong! But then somewhere around the middle of the book things start getting interesting. There were so many plot twists. Some I saw coming, but others completely blindsided me. The overall story was good.
And then there was the end, which I can't get into without spoilers. But I saw major problems with it. If you've read the book and want to know my thoughts, I'll hide them here. Otherwise, please keep reading. :)
Ok! Now that I have THAT out of my system, I am giving Tell Me Lies three stars. The slow start and the ending that didn't sit well with me pulled it down from four to three. It was good. Many loved it. It just wasn't one of my favorites. But I hope my next thriller is better! Happy reading!
June 4, 2021
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**4.5 stars**
Tell Me Lies by J.P. Pomare. (2020).
Psychologist Margot has a picture-perfect life: a nice house in the suburbs, a husband, two children and a successful career. One morning Margot approaches one of her clients on a busy train platform. He is looking down at his phone as the train approaches. That's when she slams into him and he falls in front of the train. Margot's clients lie to her, but one lie cost her family and her freedom.
I was so looking forward to this one after loving the author's previous novel (In the Clearing) and seeing quite a lot of positive reviews. It did not disappoint! I read this in one day because it was so well-written, engaging, fast-paced and at only roughly 250 pages it didn't take long to get through. We know from the beginning that Margot has deliberately pushed one of her clients on front of a train; the questions are which one and why? Full of twists and red herrings, this psychological thriller will keep you guessing until the end. Loved it!
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**4.5 stars**
Tell Me Lies by J.P. Pomare. (2020).
Psychologist Margot has a picture-perfect life: a nice house in the suburbs, a husband, two children and a successful career. One morning Margot approaches one of her clients on a busy train platform. He is looking down at his phone as the train approaches. That's when she slams into him and he falls in front of the train. Margot's clients lie to her, but one lie cost her family and her freedom.
I was so looking forward to this one after loving the author's previous novel (In the Clearing) and seeing quite a lot of positive reviews. It did not disappoint! I read this in one day because it was so well-written, engaging, fast-paced and at only roughly 250 pages it didn't take long to get through. We know from the beginning that Margot has deliberately pushed one of her clients on front of a train; the questions are which one and why? Full of twists and red herrings, this psychological thriller will keep you guessing until the end. Loved it!
April 13, 2021
This stupid, know-it-all psychologist lmao. No ethics, terrible at her job and a complete refusal to take any accountability for her own actions, I was deeply disappointed when she lived. Like ooh what a twist SHE’S the real sociopath, as if that’s somehow unclear from the jump, especially after she’s absolutely aghast when someone suggests she try therapy herself. TLDR mama this is garbage.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2021
This was a good audiobook, with excellent narration that draws you right in. It’s primarily about a psychologist who is being stalked — or so you think, until it turns out to be about other things too. The characterizations were great, the story was good, and the final big twist (which I did not see coming at all) bumped it up to four stars for me.
April 18, 2020
I loved every aspect of this title -- concept, structure, pacing, characters, plot points. The narrator's performance was also exquisite.
April 9, 2020
Is it bad that I disliked the main character so much that I was rooting for the villain? I really did not enjoy this one.
March 19, 2021
3.75 stars rounded up
A suspense thriller, Tell Me Lies begins with a successful Australian psychologist pushing a client off a train platform. But why? An interesting cat and mouse game that ends with a jaw-dropping conclusion.
The Audible narrator was absolutely fantastic!
A suspense thriller, Tell Me Lies begins with a successful Australian psychologist pushing a client off a train platform. But why? An interesting cat and mouse game that ends with a jaw-dropping conclusion.
The Audible narrator was absolutely fantastic!
April 15, 2021
A fast read but predictable
March 4, 2021
There are many books published as suspense or psychological thrillers, although few achieve ‘must read status’. This is the third of J P Pomare books and they just keep getting better. The story begins with a man on the Flinders Street platform being pushed in front of an oncoming train. The consequences of this event are then detailed in psychologist Margot Scott and her family. A fast-paced page-turner, that builds in tension and a riveting unexpected climax. With great characters and set in the city of Melbourne, this is a do not miss five-star read.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 2,380 reviews