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The Honest Lies
When unsaid words carry the darkest consequences…
Jack Murphy’s past died with his parents. Since then, he’s crafted a lonely but successful life operating the family’s drug wholesale business in a place miles and years away from Detroit. He’s even falling for his next-door neighbor Megan, a young woman grieving the recent death of her husband.
But when twenty million dollars’ worth of drugs disappear from one of Jack’s warehouses, he grapples to connect past mistakes with a new, as yet invisible enemy. Someone remembers. Someone is settling the score.
Megan loved her husband, enough to move a thousand miles before asking questions about his past. With nothing but their memories left to protect, she struggles to reconcile the documents she finds in his closet – evidence tying him to a robbery committed months after his death.
It isn’t until Megan is kidnapped that she grasps how deeply her husband’s sins were intertwined with Jack’s past. Only then can she begin to unravel the complex relationship between truth and love – and lies told with the best of intentions.
Jack Murphy’s past died with his parents. Since then, he’s crafted a lonely but successful life operating the family’s drug wholesale business in a place miles and years away from Detroit. He’s even falling for his next-door neighbor Megan, a young woman grieving the recent death of her husband.
But when twenty million dollars’ worth of drugs disappear from one of Jack’s warehouses, he grapples to connect past mistakes with a new, as yet invisible enemy. Someone remembers. Someone is settling the score.
Megan loved her husband, enough to move a thousand miles before asking questions about his past. With nothing but their memories left to protect, she struggles to reconcile the documents she finds in his closet – evidence tying him to a robbery committed months after his death.
It isn’t until Megan is kidnapped that she grasps how deeply her husband’s sins were intertwined with Jack’s past. Only then can she begin to unravel the complex relationship between truth and love – and lies told with the best of intentions.
313 pages, Paperback
Published December 8, 2020
166 people are currently reading
183 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 11, 2021
I had heard a great deal of chatter about The Honest Lies, Elizabeth Lyvers’ debut novel. Naturally, I wanted to read the book to form my own opinion and one thing I can tell you straight off: this does not read like a debut novel. The author tells the story in a most assured way.
The Blurb
Jack Murphy’s past died with his parents. Since then, he’s crafted a lonely but successful life operating the family’s drug wholesale business in a place miles and years away from Detroit. He’s even falling for his next-door neighbor Megan, a young woman grieving the recent death of her husband.
But when twenty million dollars’ worth of drugs disappear from one of Jack’s warehouses, he grapples to connect past mistakes with a new, as yet invisible enemy. Someone remembers. Someone is settling the score.
Megan loved her husband, enough to move a thousand miles before asking questions about his past. With nothing but their memories left to protect, she struggles to reconcile the documents she finds in his closet – evidence tying him to a robbery committed months after his death.
It isn’t until Megan is kidnapped that she grasps how deeply her husband’s sins were intertwined with Jack’s past. Only then can she begin to unravel the complex relationship between truth and love – and lies told with the best of intentions.
The Review
The Honest Lies is a confident, assured novel that weaves between past and present to develop the great characters early in the book. The author makes the characters vivid and well-rounded. She allows the reader to really care for them and what happens to them. This makes the book very hard to put down. The mystery begins at the very beginning of the book when Jack’s mother dies of cancer and he takes over the family’s multi-million dollar pharmaceutical company.
Jack’s neighbour, Megan, recently lost her husband after he was hit by a car. Jack and her husband, Lane, had been at high school together and that connection holds the key to some peculiar things which happen. Then, the author grabs the reader again when an important incident occurs within the plot which creates havoc within Jack’s life and everyone seems to be against him. All the way through the novel I had doubts about who was on Jack’s side, and the half-truths the characters told were confusing, as the author intended!
After this the story picks up even more pace and, having been gripping beforehand, it suddenly becomes even more exciting. Some of the incidents in the book are brutal and bloodthirsty and there are some vile characters. However, the author sprinkles in relief by way of humour in the shape of building manager, Mrs Carp and some scenes between Jack and his friend Pete.
I often get confused with a story that jumps between time frames, but the author dealt with that clearly, so I did not find it overly problematic in this book. I did find the many refences to faith annoying, but again, the author keeps those within the characters lives which made it credible and minimised my irritation. I found the end completely satisfying and highly recommend this thrilling and captivating debut novel. I am sure it would create excellent discussions in book groups.
The Author
Elizabeth Lyvers grew up in West Virginia, part-time in the library and part-time on the basketball court. As insinuated, she read voraciously – at the dinner table, on the bus to basketball games, occasionally in the locker room. At some point between Ivanhoe and The Woman in White she grew to believe that story is the clearest way to understanding Life. She most loves a book that doesn’t shy away from exploring darkness but that can still find its way to beauty and truth.
She currently lives in Texas with her best friend, chief reader, and husband. They have a dog and a brand new baby who enjoys walks, car rides, and staying up past bedtime.
The Honest Lies is her first published novel.
Val Penny
The Blurb
Jack Murphy’s past died with his parents. Since then, he’s crafted a lonely but successful life operating the family’s drug wholesale business in a place miles and years away from Detroit. He’s even falling for his next-door neighbor Megan, a young woman grieving the recent death of her husband.
But when twenty million dollars’ worth of drugs disappear from one of Jack’s warehouses, he grapples to connect past mistakes with a new, as yet invisible enemy. Someone remembers. Someone is settling the score.
Megan loved her husband, enough to move a thousand miles before asking questions about his past. With nothing but their memories left to protect, she struggles to reconcile the documents she finds in his closet – evidence tying him to a robbery committed months after his death.
It isn’t until Megan is kidnapped that she grasps how deeply her husband’s sins were intertwined with Jack’s past. Only then can she begin to unravel the complex relationship between truth and love – and lies told with the best of intentions.
The Review
The Honest Lies is a confident, assured novel that weaves between past and present to develop the great characters early in the book. The author makes the characters vivid and well-rounded. She allows the reader to really care for them and what happens to them. This makes the book very hard to put down. The mystery begins at the very beginning of the book when Jack’s mother dies of cancer and he takes over the family’s multi-million dollar pharmaceutical company.
Jack’s neighbour, Megan, recently lost her husband after he was hit by a car. Jack and her husband, Lane, had been at high school together and that connection holds the key to some peculiar things which happen. Then, the author grabs the reader again when an important incident occurs within the plot which creates havoc within Jack’s life and everyone seems to be against him. All the way through the novel I had doubts about who was on Jack’s side, and the half-truths the characters told were confusing, as the author intended!
After this the story picks up even more pace and, having been gripping beforehand, it suddenly becomes even more exciting. Some of the incidents in the book are brutal and bloodthirsty and there are some vile characters. However, the author sprinkles in relief by way of humour in the shape of building manager, Mrs Carp and some scenes between Jack and his friend Pete.
I often get confused with a story that jumps between time frames, but the author dealt with that clearly, so I did not find it overly problematic in this book. I did find the many refences to faith annoying, but again, the author keeps those within the characters lives which made it credible and minimised my irritation. I found the end completely satisfying and highly recommend this thrilling and captivating debut novel. I am sure it would create excellent discussions in book groups.
The Author
Elizabeth Lyvers grew up in West Virginia, part-time in the library and part-time on the basketball court. As insinuated, she read voraciously – at the dinner table, on the bus to basketball games, occasionally in the locker room. At some point between Ivanhoe and The Woman in White she grew to believe that story is the clearest way to understanding Life. She most loves a book that doesn’t shy away from exploring darkness but that can still find its way to beauty and truth.
She currently lives in Texas with her best friend, chief reader, and husband. They have a dog and a brand new baby who enjoys walks, car rides, and staying up past bedtime.
The Honest Lies is her first published novel.
Val Penny
December 4, 2020
Albus Dumbledore once said, “Words are, in my not-so-humble opinion, our most inexhaustible source of magic.” Elizabeth Lyvers has a way with words, and I highly recommend you experience this for yourself! Whether in fiction, or in her blog (Dear Life), there is magic to what this author has to say. She’ll grip you, make you laugh, keep you guessing.. I assure you, you’ll be glad you picked up Honest Lies.
December 6, 2020
This is a thrilling combination; action, mystery, conspiracy, blackmail and a drugs heist, but, for me, the real draw of the novel is the tender romance between the main characters Jack Murphy and Megan Karrow. The story mostly takes place in Michigan and begins with the death, from cancer, of Jack’s mother, owner of a multi-million dollar pharmaceutical company. The mystery begins on the opening page - why has, pillar of the community, Marilyn Karrow been receiving death threats? Across the hallway, Jack’s neighbour, Megan, is grieving the sudden death of her husband; the love of her life. But somehow, Jack’s connection with Megan’s dead husband, Lane, holds the key to some peculiar things which have been happening. Half-way through, a momentous incident crashes into the plot and turns Jack’s life upside down with, seemingly, the whole world against him.
The story flicks back and forth, filling in gaps in from the past and explaining what is unfurling right now. I like how Lyvers explores friendship – Peter Vanscoy, described as Jack’s best mate, but also a ‘woodpecker friend’ is an intriguing character; just how much does a shared childhood mean you owe your friends? Can you ever break those ties? I also like the little links within the friendship group which aren’t immediately apparent, although the pieces of the puzzle come together over the course of the narrative. The other theme I think Lyvers is great at putting under the microscope, is the loss of a loved one and it isn’t just Megan – Jack is also haunted by a lost love. Lyvers paints a great picture of what grief looks like and how different people process it, which perfectly fits in with the timescale of the book. Lyvers also shows the powerful emotions becoming a parent brings – and good parenting is something which both Jack and Megan have missed out on in their own childhoods. The ending to this thread is great, with Lyvers showing that love is more important than blood ties.
Some of the incidents in the book are brutal and bloodthirsty. There are some vile characters, but there is also humour in the shape of busybody Mrs Carp and some funny scenes including a hilarious stake-out with Pete and Jack. All the way through the novel I had nagging doubts at the back of my mind about who was on Jack’s side, and the half-truths are very frustrating, especially those between Jack and Megan but the connection, fallouts and ultimately the strengthening relationship between the pair feels real. Can you truly love someone if you don’t know the truth about them? Can you move on in life if you can’t forgive yourself?
Lots of twists and turns here – including a superb sting at the end which I didn’t see coming, especially not in the fast-paced run up towards the climax of the tale where Megan totally steals the show. The end is totally satisfying although, by then, I was exhausted! A thrilling and captivating debut.
The story flicks back and forth, filling in gaps in from the past and explaining what is unfurling right now. I like how Lyvers explores friendship – Peter Vanscoy, described as Jack’s best mate, but also a ‘woodpecker friend’ is an intriguing character; just how much does a shared childhood mean you owe your friends? Can you ever break those ties? I also like the little links within the friendship group which aren’t immediately apparent, although the pieces of the puzzle come together over the course of the narrative. The other theme I think Lyvers is great at putting under the microscope, is the loss of a loved one and it isn’t just Megan – Jack is also haunted by a lost love. Lyvers paints a great picture of what grief looks like and how different people process it, which perfectly fits in with the timescale of the book. Lyvers also shows the powerful emotions becoming a parent brings – and good parenting is something which both Jack and Megan have missed out on in their own childhoods. The ending to this thread is great, with Lyvers showing that love is more important than blood ties.
Some of the incidents in the book are brutal and bloodthirsty. There are some vile characters, but there is also humour in the shape of busybody Mrs Carp and some funny scenes including a hilarious stake-out with Pete and Jack. All the way through the novel I had nagging doubts at the back of my mind about who was on Jack’s side, and the half-truths are very frustrating, especially those between Jack and Megan but the connection, fallouts and ultimately the strengthening relationship between the pair feels real. Can you truly love someone if you don’t know the truth about them? Can you move on in life if you can’t forgive yourself?
Lots of twists and turns here – including a superb sting at the end which I didn’t see coming, especially not in the fast-paced run up towards the climax of the tale where Megan totally steals the show. The end is totally satisfying although, by then, I was exhausted! A thrilling and captivating debut.
May 21, 2021
Great Book!
I downloaded this book at about 1am, read for 3 hours, fell asleep for 3hrs, woke up and spent the next 2 1/2 hours reading and finishing it. It was such a great book that I am going to re-read it! Lol
What a wonderful author! She did an amazing job! Its not perfect, some things are a bit confusing towards the end, but that could be because I was a bit exhausted and missed some things, hence the reason I'll read it again! If you're thinking about reading this book, you definitely won't be disappointed! I never leave reviews! It definitely kept my attention and I literally carried my Kindle around the house reading as I tried to get some things done! I wish it wasn't over! Damn!
I downloaded this book at about 1am, read for 3 hours, fell asleep for 3hrs, woke up and spent the next 2 1/2 hours reading and finishing it. It was such a great book that I am going to re-read it! Lol
What a wonderful author! She did an amazing job! Its not perfect, some things are a bit confusing towards the end, but that could be because I was a bit exhausted and missed some things, hence the reason I'll read it again! If you're thinking about reading this book, you definitely won't be disappointed! I never leave reviews! It definitely kept my attention and I literally carried my Kindle around the house reading as I tried to get some things done! I wish it wasn't over! Damn!
November 17, 2020
It was so refreshing to read a book that contained romance, mystery, and faith in such a way that none overpowered the other and yet, there were times that I was scared and emotional along with the characters.
I was heartbroken and scared for Megan, angry and annoyed for Jack, and let out an audible gasp at the beginning of chapter 28. The various plot twists kept me guessing and intrigued the entire time.
I was heartbroken and scared for Megan, angry and annoyed for Jack, and let out an audible gasp at the beginning of chapter 28. The various plot twists kept me guessing and intrigued the entire time.
November 25, 2020
This book was fantastic from start to finish! The story kept twisting back and forth, with past and present pieces interwoven expertly. New information led to new questions and I was guessing until the end, which was a spectacular adrenaline rush that I read in one setting, unable to put it down! The characters are real, flawed humans who not only develop over the book but illuminate qualities in the reader themselves. I highly recommend!
March 30, 2021
This was a fantastic read! The majority of my reading is not fiction, so I'm pretty picky about what I will read that is fiction. It was such a fun read. Elizabeth has a wonderful way with words. I found myself underlining descriptions so that I could go back and look at them. An October day that stood on its tiptoes to reach a warmer temperature. This plus action made for a very good alternative to netflix and fb. It made me want to read more fiction!
April 16, 2021
Great plot with many twists and turns. Wonderful character building, and background descriptions that make the story flow with intensity and depth. This is one of those exciting stories that you think about during the day and can't wait to get back to when you return for the evening. I definitely recommend this book to anyone that likes an unexpected ending. Can't wait to read another by Ms Lyvers
November 23, 2020
The whole second half of this book is pure adrenaline! Might have to read it a second time because I read it mostly in one sitting. At times the writing is almost poetic, adding a nice balance to the fast pace of the story. The romance is not overdone, and the action kept me guessing until the end. Highly recommend!
December 9, 2020
Exceptional book by author Elizabeth Lyvers. The quality of writing is fantastic. This thriller was hard to put down; I finished it in a day. The storyline is engaging and compelling, and the protagonists are thoughtfully characterized and believable. Five solid stars. I will buy and read anything this talented author writes.
January 9, 2021
Elizabeth Lyver’s “The Honest Lies,” is one of the best reads I’ve had in a long time. It has hair raising suspense, coupled with a developing romance, and touches on faith with a good balance of all three. I especially loved the surprise ending. I definitely will read Lyver’s next book out, and hope there will be many more to come.
January 27, 2021
From the very beginning this book was hard to put down! I was carrying it everywhere with me in the hopes that I would find some down time to read more. I often find my self disappointed by thriller��s with predictable twists but this one had several I did not see coming. A wonderful debut novel from Elizabeth that makes me excited to see what she comes up with next!
March 8, 2021
Great character development in the first half of the book. I really cared for the main characters. I was pleasantly surprised to see faith sprinkled throughout the storyline. The second half of the book kicked the story into high gear and was filled with non-stop action! The author kept me guessing until the end. I would highly recommend it to my friends. I'm looking forward to her next thriller.
June 20, 2023
I just finished this novel, and for a first book, I liked it! Megan's belief in God felt like such a natural quality that even I, an agnostic reader, felt fine about it all. Jack's emotions bubbled to the top, and they read as something that anyone could feel along with the character.
Also, Asher is such an adorable name!
This was fun, and I liked it. I'd read more of her novels.
Also, Asher is such an adorable name!
This was fun, and I liked it. I'd read more of her novels.
July 7, 2024
It took me a while to finish this book because I got really bored with it. For me, the first 2/3 of the book lacked that "gotta know what's going to happen next" element. The story kinda meandered along. The last 1/3 picked up, I was able to get into it a little more. But still a very average book, in my opinion. By tomorrow I'll have forgotten it.
January 13, 2021
A book impossible to put down.
5 star because if I read a book straight through it means it is far above average. It not only tells
a story of crime and heartache but also of love and mending friendships. And finding true love
5 star because if I read a book straight through it means it is far above average. It not only tells
a story of crime and heartache but also of love and mending friendships. And finding true love
February 22, 2021
What a well-woven thriller, with complex characters and a well-laid back story. I enjoyed the splashes of orange woven throughout, and finding a favorite book (The Shell Seekers) in the protagonist's apartment. Thankfully, someone else's destructive agenda may indeed eventually lead to redemption.
June 20, 2021
Excellent! Faith based with no preachy text
Loved this book for its excellent plot and characters. I’m truly impressed with the inclusion of faith as a matter of fact. No preaching or overdone rhetoric. Great job!
Loved this book for its excellent plot and characters. I’m truly impressed with the inclusion of faith as a matter of fact. No preaching or overdone rhetoric. Great job!
July 10, 2022
The best books promote inciting incidents and paradigm shifts in the readers life. The line from this book that will stick with me is “…few humans stop to realize that they are sometimes asked to be the answer to the prayer.”
April 30, 2023
My first book by this author, but certainly not my last. It was intriguing, held my interest from the first and had lots of twists and turns. Great read, but have lots of time before you start it. I read it in about 4 hours. Loved it.
October 26, 2023
Wonderful.
This is a very amazing story. The romance part is sweet and clean, and the plot is full of mystery, twists and turn. It was kind of slow going at the beginning, but after the first chapter, it was hard to put down.
This is a very amazing story. The romance part is sweet and clean, and the plot is full of mystery, twists and turn. It was kind of slow going at the beginning, but after the first chapter, it was hard to put down.
January 12, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this well written page-turner. I couldn't put it down! I'll look forward to Elizabeth Lyvers' next book.
February 21, 2021
Great book! First novel written by a hometown girl.
July 5, 2021
Interesting read. Nicely written.
Read
July 6, 2021usually easy to follow but plot is too convoluted at points nevertheless author succeeded in writing a good book
July 12, 2021
Outstanding!!!
This is a very good book that develops in a way that keeps your interest at a peak. I didn’t want to stop reading until it was completed.
This is a very good book that develops in a way that keeps your interest at a peak. I didn’t want to stop reading until it was completed.
August 7, 2021
Ridiculously long.
I skimmed through many pages and some chapters in this poorly constructed book. The author needs to go back to the relevant history drawing board.
I skimmed through many pages and some chapters in this poorly constructed book. The author needs to go back to the relevant history drawing board.
September 11, 2021
It was enjoyable. Started off slow, nice finish.
Weird thing with cursing, bunch of "hecks" and "dangits" but it was only a little annoying.
Weird thing with cursing, bunch of "hecks" and "dangits" but it was only a little annoying.
January 8, 2022
Great read with love story, many twists and turns. I couldn’t put it down.
January 5, 2023
4.5 stars
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews