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Bugie, bugie, bugie
Il matrimonio di Daisy e Simon è fantastico, non è vero? Daisy è un'insegnante e Simon un designer di interni. Sembrano proprio perfetti l'uno per l'altra e la loro intesa fa invidia a tutti gli amici e ai conoscenti. Dopo anni passati felicemente insieme, l'arrivo della piccola Millie ha coronato i loro sogni. Sembra difficile immaginare una felicità più perfetta: una splendida famiglia di tre persone. Tutto considerato, il fatto che Simon beva un po' troppo non è poi così importante. Daisy ci è abituata, sa che succede solo quando ha bisogno di rilassarsi dopo una giornata pesante. Finché una sera, a una festa, le cose vanno terribilmente fuori controllo. Da quel momento la felice famigliola non sarà mai più la stessa...
352 pages, Hardcover
First published September 5, 2019
3347 people are currently reading
18148 people want to read
About the author
Adele Parks
57 books3,358 followersAdele Parks MBE is one of the most-loved and biggest-selling women's fiction writers in the UK. She has sold over 4 million books and her work has been translated into 30 different languages.
She has published 21 novels, all of which have been London Times bestsellers.
Adele has written 19 contemporary novels and 2 historical ones, Spare Brides and If You Go Away, which are set during and after WW1. Her latest novels, Both of You, Just My Luck, Lies Lies Lies, I Invited Her In, The Image of You and The Stranger in My Home are twisty, domestic noirs. Adele likes to scrutinize our concepts of family, our theories on love, parenting and fidelity.
During her career Adele has lived in Italy, Botswana and London. Now she lives happily in Surrey, UK with her husband, son and cat.
If you want to stay in touch you can find Adele on Twitter @AdeleParks, Instagram @Adele_Parks or Facebook @OfficialAdeleParks. You can sign up to her newsletter at eepurl.com/cI0l and there’s lots more info about Adele and her books on www.adeleparks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,909 reviews
August 22, 2019
I went into this one blind - well, Adele Parks had written it and that was good enough for me. Happily I wasn’t disappointed.
With a title of Lies, Lies, Lies, it’s clear that there will be secrets galore, some of them close to the surface, just waiting to be discovered, whilst others are deeply buried and closely guarded.
Daisy, a primary school teacher, and interior designer husband Simon should have a great life since their marriage was completed 6 years ago with the birth of their daughter Millie, after many IVF failures. However, Simon’s drinking is getting out of control, and where once upon a time Daisy would have made excuses for his behaviour, it’s obvious that it’s become an addiction, but of course Simon thinks she’s making a big deal out of nothing, and their once happy marriage begins to crumble.
I won’t go into any more detail about the storyline, other than it deals with some really difficult issues including alcohol addiction, sexual violence and post natal depression. The characters are mostly flawed and not always likeable, but that adds an extra level of interest. It was a riveting read with many surprises along the way, and then came that ending.
I thought the truth had already been revealed, but then right at the very end the REAL truth came out. The massive secret that I never even guessed at. Terrific!
* Thank you to Netgalley and HQ for my ARC. I have given an honest unbiased review in exchange *
With a title of Lies, Lies, Lies, it’s clear that there will be secrets galore, some of them close to the surface, just waiting to be discovered, whilst others are deeply buried and closely guarded.
Daisy, a primary school teacher, and interior designer husband Simon should have a great life since their marriage was completed 6 years ago with the birth of their daughter Millie, after many IVF failures. However, Simon’s drinking is getting out of control, and where once upon a time Daisy would have made excuses for his behaviour, it’s obvious that it’s become an addiction, but of course Simon thinks she’s making a big deal out of nothing, and their once happy marriage begins to crumble.
I won’t go into any more detail about the storyline, other than it deals with some really difficult issues including alcohol addiction, sexual violence and post natal depression. The characters are mostly flawed and not always likeable, but that adds an extra level of interest. It was a riveting read with many surprises along the way, and then came that ending.
I thought the truth had already been revealed, but then right at the very end the REAL truth came out. The massive secret that I never even guessed at. Terrific!
* Thank you to Netgalley and HQ for my ARC. I have given an honest unbiased review in exchange *
July 29, 2019
I'm going to say straight up that I did not like this book. Yes, as the title says it's about lies. The lies told by odious characters, none of which are likeable. It's about alcoholism, bullying and more. The worst part is a small child is involved. Other people have rated this book, so I'll leave it to you to make up your own mind, however I have nothing good to say about it. This book was really not a good fit for me.
I received an uncorrected proof from the publisher in exchange for a honest review. The opinions are entirely my own.
I received an uncorrected proof from the publisher in exchange for a honest review. The opinions are entirely my own.
April 26, 2020
The first half was BAD.
The second half was WORSE!
I had everything figured out at the 32% point, except for the "twist" in the epilogue which was so ridiculous that you could not figure it out, no matter how good of a sleuth you are.
One star for the author's accurate portrayal of the downward spiral of an alcoholic.
Triggers ; Alcoholism, Sexual Abuse, and the killing of an innocent kitten!
I cannot say that I enjoyed ANYTHING about this slow paced story, but there are plenty of 4 and 5 star reviews out there, so clearly you just may love it!
Genre: Domestic drama/suspense NOT a mystery/thriller.
Thank You to Netgalley, the publisher and author for the digital ARC provided in exchange for a candid review!
U.S. Publication date: Aug. 4, 2020
The second half was WORSE!
I had everything figured out at the 32% point, except for the "twist" in the epilogue which was so ridiculous that you could not figure it out, no matter how good of a sleuth you are.
One star for the author's accurate portrayal of the downward spiral of an alcoholic.
Triggers ; Alcoholism, Sexual Abuse, and the killing of an innocent kitten!
I cannot say that I enjoyed ANYTHING about this slow paced story, but there are plenty of 4 and 5 star reviews out there, so clearly you just may love it!
Genre: Domestic drama/suspense NOT a mystery/thriller.
Thank You to Netgalley, the publisher and author for the digital ARC provided in exchange for a candid review!
U.S. Publication date: Aug. 4, 2020
April 19, 2020
Lies come in every shape and size. From a harmless, itty-bitty white lie, to show-stopping whoppers! And as the title would imply, this book has them all!
Daisy and Simon have been living a quiet, comfortable life with their daughter Millie and their close-knit group of friends. Having just learned that Daisy may have lied to him, Simon's drinking goes off the rails, leading to a devastating accident which leaves him incarcerated for years.
Now Simon is about to be released, it’s unknown if Daisy will even consider taking him back? Or worse, has she moved on with an old school friend?
Brace yourself! At this point the lies come fast and furious! Brain-rattling, jaw-droppers included!
Told from both perspectives of Daisy and Simon the book flowed smoothly. Though the first half rolled out slowly as the story-line developed, the second half left me white knuckling my kindle!
Adele Parks writes a finely-crafted, twisty thriller that provides non-stop shocking moments as each lie is revealed.
Thank you to NetGalley Harlequin Trade Publishing - MIRA and Adele Parks for an ARC to read and review.
Daisy and Simon have been living a quiet, comfortable life with their daughter Millie and their close-knit group of friends. Having just learned that Daisy may have lied to him, Simon's drinking goes off the rails, leading to a devastating accident which leaves him incarcerated for years.
Now Simon is about to be released, it’s unknown if Daisy will even consider taking him back? Or worse, has she moved on with an old school friend?
Brace yourself! At this point the lies come fast and furious! Brain-rattling, jaw-droppers included!
Told from both perspectives of Daisy and Simon the book flowed smoothly. Though the first half rolled out slowly as the story-line developed, the second half left me white knuckling my kindle!
Adele Parks writes a finely-crafted, twisty thriller that provides non-stop shocking moments as each lie is revealed.
Thank you to NetGalley Harlequin Trade Publishing - MIRA and Adele Parks for an ARC to read and review.
August 8, 2020
2.5 stars. Twisty, twisty, twisty!
Daisy and Simon are the proud parents of six-year-old Millie. Millie is a bright and vivacious child who lights up the room. Daisy and Simon struggled for many years trying to have a baby before Millie came. Simon really wants to give Millie a sibling. Years of trying again have failed and Simon’s drinking has become a full fledged addiction.
This novel started off strong. I felt emotionally connected to Daisy and Simon with their deep hearted struggle to expand their family. When the novels‘ focus turned to Simon’s alcoholism, my connection faded. Alcoholism is devastating and it is depicted quite well through this story. However, I did feel that at several points, it was overdone. Many scenes, descriptions and chapters surrounding Simon dragged on too long. I felt for Daisy but was also quite frustrated with her accepting many of her predicaments as is, instead of fighting for what was right.
The entertainment factor is high — there is a lot of drama within this story. For me, the second half, most specifically the ending, took the drama way too far and I lost any connection I had made. Although there are many shocking twists that caught me by surprise, many of them felt forced and unrealistic.
I loved this authors previous book, I Invited Her In. Unfortunately this one doesn’t compare. However, I look forward to what she comes out with next in the hopes it is more like my first reading experience with her work.
Thank you to Harlequin and NetGalley for my review copy!
Daisy and Simon are the proud parents of six-year-old Millie. Millie is a bright and vivacious child who lights up the room. Daisy and Simon struggled for many years trying to have a baby before Millie came. Simon really wants to give Millie a sibling. Years of trying again have failed and Simon’s drinking has become a full fledged addiction.
This novel started off strong. I felt emotionally connected to Daisy and Simon with their deep hearted struggle to expand their family. When the novels‘ focus turned to Simon’s alcoholism, my connection faded. Alcoholism is devastating and it is depicted quite well through this story. However, I did feel that at several points, it was overdone. Many scenes, descriptions and chapters surrounding Simon dragged on too long. I felt for Daisy but was also quite frustrated with her accepting many of her predicaments as is, instead of fighting for what was right.
The entertainment factor is high — there is a lot of drama within this story. For me, the second half, most specifically the ending, took the drama way too far and I lost any connection I had made. Although there are many shocking twists that caught me by surprise, many of them felt forced and unrealistic.
I loved this authors previous book, I Invited Her In. Unfortunately this one doesn’t compare. However, I look forward to what she comes out with next in the hopes it is more like my first reading experience with her work.
Thank you to Harlequin and NetGalley for my review copy!
August 7, 2020
3.5 stars
These lies, lies, lies were not what I expected and this story was not either. Adele Parks lead me down one twisty road with turns that left me shockingly heartbroken. The story explores some dark realities like alcohol addiction, abuse, and infertility. This is not a light read or a dark twisted, thrilling and chilling thriller but more of domestic suspense.
The story explores the dark, messy married lives of our main characters Daisy and Simon. Simon has been drinking for a while, and it’s a behavior he is familiar with, and things seem good with them and their daughter. They believe the lies they tell themselves about Simon’s drinking. After learning a lie, Simon’s drinking spirals out of control, and I felt a sense of dread as to what was ahead for this family.
The story centers heavily around Simon’s drinking, and my heart was breaking with the lies he tells, and Daisy accepts. With every turn of the story, more lies and secrets are revealed. The suspense rises, and tension increases with each turn right up to the end.
Some of the twists to the story left me gasping for air others push it for me and didn’t add up for me, and I thought were done for the convenience of the story. In the end, it all worked for me. Just when I thought things were wrapping up, there is another twist to the story that left me surprised.
I received a copy from the publisher for a blog tour.
https://travelingsistersbookreviews.com
These lies, lies, lies were not what I expected and this story was not either. Adele Parks lead me down one twisty road with turns that left me shockingly heartbroken. The story explores some dark realities like alcohol addiction, abuse, and infertility. This is not a light read or a dark twisted, thrilling and chilling thriller but more of domestic suspense.
The story explores the dark, messy married lives of our main characters Daisy and Simon. Simon has been drinking for a while, and it’s a behavior he is familiar with, and things seem good with them and their daughter. They believe the lies they tell themselves about Simon’s drinking. After learning a lie, Simon’s drinking spirals out of control, and I felt a sense of dread as to what was ahead for this family.
The story centers heavily around Simon’s drinking, and my heart was breaking with the lies he tells, and Daisy accepts. With every turn of the story, more lies and secrets are revealed. The suspense rises, and tension increases with each turn right up to the end.
Some of the twists to the story left me gasping for air others push it for me and didn’t add up for me, and I thought were done for the convenience of the story. In the end, it all worked for me. Just when I thought things were wrapping up, there is another twist to the story that left me surprised.
I received a copy from the publisher for a blog tour.
https://travelingsistersbookreviews.com
July 6, 2019
Wow where do I start? .... Deep breath!!! This book is like a runaway train with its many twists and turns, ups and downs, not knowing where it’s final destination will be and as exhilarating as a runaway train!!
This book should come with a warning ‘ Totally Addictive - clear you’re diary before commencing” I read this in one day and absolutely LOVED it!!
Simon and Daisy seem like a happy couple with their daughter Millie. They had tried to conceive for several years and she is very special to them. Simon has always loved a drink but now his drinking has spiralled out of control which leads to a dangerous accident.
What is there not to like about this book? There are secrets galore and you never know what will happen next, which keeps you guessing until the end.
Finished this and had to take a minute to take in the ending. My head is spinning!!
Will definitely be on the look out for Adele Parks next book with bated breath. This is my first but definitely not the last I will read of hers.
A massive 10 out of 10 with 5 stars for this amazing story.You may have guessed I liked this book!!!
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
This book should come with a warning ‘ Totally Addictive - clear you’re diary before commencing” I read this in one day and absolutely LOVED it!!
Simon and Daisy seem like a happy couple with their daughter Millie. They had tried to conceive for several years and she is very special to them. Simon has always loved a drink but now his drinking has spiralled out of control which leads to a dangerous accident.
What is there not to like about this book? There are secrets galore and you never know what will happen next, which keeps you guessing until the end.
Finished this and had to take a minute to take in the ending. My head is spinning!!
Will definitely be on the look out for Adele Parks next book with bated breath. This is my first but definitely not the last I will read of hers.
A massive 10 out of 10 with 5 stars for this amazing story.You may have guessed I liked this book!!!
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
November 5, 2019
Ever since Simon took he’s first sip of beer aged just six, an unhealthy obsession to alcohol was born.
He’s dad having been a heavy drink and for the impressionable young child leads to so many ill judged choices.
Now 36 and married to Daisy with daughter Millie, life couldn’t be more perfect for him.
But that nagging addiction of spending time in a bar than seeing his child in the school concert just highlights how damaged he is.
Whilst I don’t agree with all of Simons actions it was at a friends party that highlights how others are not giving him the support he so desperately needs.
As Daryll an old university friend of Daisy is more than happy to source drinks for him, it’s this latest drunk binge that has massive repercussions for Simon and his family.
This book itself become quite addictive as I was desperate to know what would happen next.
What secrets and lies does Daisy hold to allow her husband to get in that state, you’d think she’d keep more of a measure on his drinking.
Brilliantly written with strong characters that a reader can deeply care for, whilst hoping that Simon can ditch the bottle it was mainly Millie that I was rooting for.
This was my first Adele Parks novel, but plan to delve into more of her work having really enjoyed this!
He’s dad having been a heavy drink and for the impressionable young child leads to so many ill judged choices.
Now 36 and married to Daisy with daughter Millie, life couldn’t be more perfect for him.
But that nagging addiction of spending time in a bar than seeing his child in the school concert just highlights how damaged he is.
Whilst I don’t agree with all of Simons actions it was at a friends party that highlights how others are not giving him the support he so desperately needs.
As Daryll an old university friend of Daisy is more than happy to source drinks for him, it’s this latest drunk binge that has massive repercussions for Simon and his family.
This book itself become quite addictive as I was desperate to know what would happen next.
What secrets and lies does Daisy hold to allow her husband to get in that state, you’d think she’d keep more of a measure on his drinking.
Brilliantly written with strong characters that a reader can deeply care for, whilst hoping that Simon can ditch the bottle it was mainly Millie that I was rooting for.
This was my first Adele Parks novel, but plan to delve into more of her work having really enjoyed this!
September 17, 2020
Lies, Lies, Lies by Adele Parks is a great domestic thriller! The story is based on family drama that causes unexpected consequences. Thank you NetGalley and MIRA/Harlequin for this ARC.
Full review: https://justreadingjess.wordpress.com...
Full review: https://justreadingjess.wordpress.com...
August 11, 2020
Happy to be a part of the book tour for this thriller!
Dark and twisty thriller with a surprising plot
On the surface, Simon and Daisy's marriage looks perfect. He's an architect, she's a teacher, and they are parents to their beloved daughter, Millie, brought into the world after many years of trying to have a child. But looking beyond the perfection, you see the strain. Simon drinks too much, embarrassing Daisy and even Millie, though she may be too young to truly realize it. Their friends typically look the other way, expressing sympathy but not offering much help. Until the night of a friend's party, where things get out of control, and their lives change forever.
"Millie was a miracle. Conceived without any medical intervention. A miracle. She saved us."
This was my first book by Adele Parks, and I found she sucked me into the story from the very beginning. For me, the plot was easily the star here. This was a twisty thriller that kept me guessing, often wondering which path it was going to lead us down next. While I had an inkling about one particular plot point, others took me by complete surprise, which was fun. I always love a mystery that keeps me on my toes and goes down completely unexpected paths.
"People with secrets rarely sleep soundly. Fact."
One strength of the book is the fact that it's told from both Daisy and Simon's perspectives. Neither are particularly sympathetic, but it's easy to get caught up in their worlds. Daisy comes across as a doormat, who cannot stand up to her alcoholic husband. And Simon, of course, a drunk who endangers his family on a regular basis. You want to shake some sense into both of them. But there's certainly a twisted web of lies and secrets behind the foundation of this couple. Nothing is as it seems, and as time goes on, you can start to at least understand some of their motivations.
Overall, I enjoyed this one. I welcomed a different plot, which had some surprises in store. The ending was a bit ambiguous, but overall still a solid read. 3.75 stars, rounded to 4 here.
I received a copy of this book from Harlequin/Mira and Netgalley in return for an honest review.
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Dark and twisty thriller with a surprising plot
On the surface, Simon and Daisy's marriage looks perfect. He's an architect, she's a teacher, and they are parents to their beloved daughter, Millie, brought into the world after many years of trying to have a child. But looking beyond the perfection, you see the strain. Simon drinks too much, embarrassing Daisy and even Millie, though she may be too young to truly realize it. Their friends typically look the other way, expressing sympathy but not offering much help. Until the night of a friend's party, where things get out of control, and their lives change forever.
"Millie was a miracle. Conceived without any medical intervention. A miracle. She saved us."
This was my first book by Adele Parks, and I found she sucked me into the story from the very beginning. For me, the plot was easily the star here. This was a twisty thriller that kept me guessing, often wondering which path it was going to lead us down next. While I had an inkling about one particular plot point, others took me by complete surprise, which was fun. I always love a mystery that keeps me on my toes and goes down completely unexpected paths.
"People with secrets rarely sleep soundly. Fact."
One strength of the book is the fact that it's told from both Daisy and Simon's perspectives. Neither are particularly sympathetic, but it's easy to get caught up in their worlds. Daisy comes across as a doormat, who cannot stand up to her alcoholic husband. And Simon, of course, a drunk who endangers his family on a regular basis. You want to shake some sense into both of them. But there's certainly a twisted web of lies and secrets behind the foundation of this couple. Nothing is as it seems, and as time goes on, you can start to at least understand some of their motivations.
Overall, I enjoyed this one. I welcomed a different plot, which had some surprises in store. The ending was a bit ambiguous, but overall still a solid read. 3.75 stars, rounded to 4 here.
I received a copy of this book from Harlequin/Mira and Netgalley in return for an honest review.
Blog ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Instagram ~ PaperBackSwap ~ Smashbomb
September 28, 2019
5☆ An Endearing and Very Thrilling Read!
Lies Lies Lies is a dark domestic thriller/noir which kept me hooked till the very end!
Simon was introduced to alcohol from an early age and it becomes very clear to see he has a problem!
Daisy and Simon appear to be happily married but there are hidden cracks. Despite trying to hide them, everyone on the outside can see Simon's drinking is spiralling out of control.
Daisy and Simon have spent years trying to have a baby, after so much heartache and failed attempts at fertility treatment they finally conceived naturally and the beautilly charismatic Millie is born.
Simon is so desperate to have another baby he bullies Daisy into attending an appointment to see if they can conceive again.
But Simon is told some devastating news and his world is about to be blown apart!
His drinking gets a whole lot worse! This is where I stop as i don't want to risk giving anything more away!
Lies Lies Lies is exactly what this book is about, secrets, lies, deception, tragedy, heartache, is rife throughout this enthralling book.
There are some difficult subjects such as alcoholism, fertility treatments, depression, but Adele has handled them with the right amount of sensitivity to still make a relevant impact.
The twists and turns are cleverly plotted, the characters are superbly written, desperately flawed and not always likeable.
So if you are looking for an endearing and thrilling read that will keep you turning the pages and an ending that will surprise you, then grab a copy of Lies Lies Lies by the very talented Adele Parks!
Thank you to HQ Publishers for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
Lies Lies Lies is a dark domestic thriller/noir which kept me hooked till the very end!
Simon was introduced to alcohol from an early age and it becomes very clear to see he has a problem!
Daisy and Simon appear to be happily married but there are hidden cracks. Despite trying to hide them, everyone on the outside can see Simon's drinking is spiralling out of control.
Daisy and Simon have spent years trying to have a baby, after so much heartache and failed attempts at fertility treatment they finally conceived naturally and the beautilly charismatic Millie is born.
Simon is so desperate to have another baby he bullies Daisy into attending an appointment to see if they can conceive again.
But Simon is told some devastating news and his world is about to be blown apart!
His drinking gets a whole lot worse! This is where I stop as i don't want to risk giving anything more away!
Lies Lies Lies is exactly what this book is about, secrets, lies, deception, tragedy, heartache, is rife throughout this enthralling book.
There are some difficult subjects such as alcoholism, fertility treatments, depression, but Adele has handled them with the right amount of sensitivity to still make a relevant impact.
The twists and turns are cleverly plotted, the characters are superbly written, desperately flawed and not always likeable.
So if you are looking for an endearing and thrilling read that will keep you turning the pages and an ending that will surprise you, then grab a copy of Lies Lies Lies by the very talented Adele Parks!
Thank you to HQ Publishers for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
July 19, 2019
Lies Lies Lies - oh my goodness there are soooo many lies! Adele Parks has written an absolute page turner in this book - a book that is hard to put down because you just never know what is going to happen next. You might think that you have this one all figured out - but I guarantee you have not. If you love a story that continues to surprise you right until the very end then this book is definitely one that you need to grab.
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of this book from the HQ Book Club - Harlequin Books Australia so a big thank you to them. It was an absolute pleasure to read and review this book. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased. This book is being released in Australia July 22nd but not in the UK until September for some reason. Lucky Aussies!!
Lies Lies Lies tells the story of a family - Simon, Daisy and their daughter Millie. Falling pregnant with Millie was a struggle for the couple and trying for a second is proving to be just as hard. Attending an IVF appointment changes Simons world and he starts to drink a lot more. Simon becomes increasingly more reliant on alcohol and their marriage starts to feel the strain. But it is one night after a friends party that a horrific incident occurs and both of their lives are shattered.
This is a story of alcohol abuse and addiction, domestic violence, post natal depression, family and good friends. It shows the extremes that people will go for those that they love, for family and for their lives You need to read this book to understand a lot of the themes running through it and I absolutely do not want to spoil this book for anybody. I had a few gasps out loud when reading this, when the twists were revealed. I found this book to be hard to read in parts but I thoroughly enjoyed it all the same. I highly recommend this book - well done Adele Parks!
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of this book from the HQ Book Club - Harlequin Books Australia so a big thank you to them. It was an absolute pleasure to read and review this book. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased. This book is being released in Australia July 22nd but not in the UK until September for some reason. Lucky Aussies!!
Lies Lies Lies tells the story of a family - Simon, Daisy and their daughter Millie. Falling pregnant with Millie was a struggle for the couple and trying for a second is proving to be just as hard. Attending an IVF appointment changes Simons world and he starts to drink a lot more. Simon becomes increasingly more reliant on alcohol and their marriage starts to feel the strain. But it is one night after a friends party that a horrific incident occurs and both of their lives are shattered.
This is a story of alcohol abuse and addiction, domestic violence, post natal depression, family and good friends. It shows the extremes that people will go for those that they love, for family and for their lives You need to read this book to understand a lot of the themes running through it and I absolutely do not want to spoil this book for anybody. I had a few gasps out loud when reading this, when the twists were revealed. I found this book to be hard to read in parts but I thoroughly enjoyed it all the same. I highly recommend this book - well done Adele Parks!
April 26, 2020
Simon and Daisy Barnes have been married for a while, they were desperate for a child and after several failed rounds of IVF, to their joy Millie was born. She is now 6. Simon is a big drinker, he always has been but after receiving some devastating news he is imploding and his drinking is out of control. The story is told in alternate perspectives by Daisy and Simon. Daisy’s sections seem flat and a but lifeless compared to Simons but the reason for that eventually emerges.
The story covers a lot of serious issues such as alcohol addiction and sexual violence. It starts slowly and the pressure builds and eventually ramps up and how. It’s very twisty and very shocking at times until we arrive at the truth. The characters are well portrayed and there’s a good mix of those that are likeable and one in particular who is beyond vile. At times I wanted to shake Daisy as she does so little to stop Simons drinking and maybe even enables it, however, I grew to understand her better as the story unfolds. His alcoholism is depicted well and you can picture his embarrassing antics and Daisy feelings must resemble sitting on top of a volcano.
There is an absolutely horrendous scene that involves a kitten which people need to warned of, the cruelty of which beggars belief and which is not necessary. The explanation for Millie’s parentage is unbelievable too and I didn’t buy into that and hence my 3 star rating.
There are some very good parts to this book but the above two things spoiled the book for me.
The story covers a lot of serious issues such as alcohol addiction and sexual violence. It starts slowly and the pressure builds and eventually ramps up and how. It’s very twisty and very shocking at times until we arrive at the truth. The characters are well portrayed and there’s a good mix of those that are likeable and one in particular who is beyond vile. At times I wanted to shake Daisy as she does so little to stop Simons drinking and maybe even enables it, however, I grew to understand her better as the story unfolds. His alcoholism is depicted well and you can picture his embarrassing antics and Daisy feelings must resemble sitting on top of a volcano.
There is an absolutely horrendous scene that involves a kitten which people need to warned of, the cruelty of which beggars belief and which is not necessary. The explanation for Millie’s parentage is unbelievable too and I didn’t buy into that and hence my 3 star rating.
There are some very good parts to this book but the above two things spoiled the book for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2019
I devoured Lies, Lies, Lies. I was drawn in from the first line. It was so engaging, well written, and the stakes were so high right off the bat. My kind of fiction. Everyone’s kind of fiction! The characters were so realistically flawed, the drama so compelling. It is one of those rare books that earns the title, unputdownable
July 30, 2020
Favorite Quotes:
… she’s had bouts of terrible hallucinations and intense paranoia. She threw things at me when I went into her room, she thought I was an undertaker and had come to measure her up.
Born in a different era, Connie would most likely have been one of the women knitting by the guillotines during the French revolution, she had the stomach for it. She always put curiosity before sentimentality. She collected experiences.
The cell smelt stale. Simon had always had a keen sense of smell. It was one of the least useful… He wore glasses, his hearing was average, and he couldn’t remember anyone ever saying he was a total king in the sack. So, out of smell, taste, sight, hearing and touch, it was his luck to get an A* in smell. Leon had been openly farting all evening… Simon longed for fresh air and a breeze.
Not blackouts Daisy, time travel. I’m like Doctor Who. My Tardis is a whisky bottle. I punch through the mundane rules of time and space that you mere mortals must live with.
I don’t need to worry about identity theft. No one wants to be me.
My Review:
This author is a wily minx! I adored and despised her as I read and adored and despised her tragic and tensely emotive and prickly storylines, which were populated with curiously compelling characters who were rather awful human beings. I thought they were appallingly weak and horrible people until about 80% into the book and it broke my heart when I realized how wrong I had been. The tale was steeped in angst, which is one of my least favorite things in the world, yet my brain was itching to know every little thing. I couldn’t put it down and wanted to hiss at every interruption to my perusal.
I was on edge, tense, nibbling my cuticles, biting my lips, my shoulders up in my ears, the knots in my neck and shoulders had additional knots of their own. I was confounded by my investment and attraction to these devastating storylines full of woe. The writing was insightfully observant, cunningly evocative, and poignant with oddly alluring intrigue and bewitching word voodoo that kept me tethered to my Kindle as I navigated this maddeningly paced, taut, and complex tale with a level of tension that continued to build exponentially. Even during those unavoidable periods when I was forced to put my Kindle down, also known as adulting and sleep, I found myself ruminating about the characters. I had five pages of marked quotes. There were multiple layers to this tale as well as to the complicated cast, in addition to a series of heart-clenching and unexpected twists. It was tragic, heartbreaking, and in the end - rather brilliant.
… she’s had bouts of terrible hallucinations and intense paranoia. She threw things at me when I went into her room, she thought I was an undertaker and had come to measure her up.
Born in a different era, Connie would most likely have been one of the women knitting by the guillotines during the French revolution, she had the stomach for it. She always put curiosity before sentimentality. She collected experiences.
The cell smelt stale. Simon had always had a keen sense of smell. It was one of the least useful… He wore glasses, his hearing was average, and he couldn’t remember anyone ever saying he was a total king in the sack. So, out of smell, taste, sight, hearing and touch, it was his luck to get an A* in smell. Leon had been openly farting all evening… Simon longed for fresh air and a breeze.
Not blackouts Daisy, time travel. I’m like Doctor Who. My Tardis is a whisky bottle. I punch through the mundane rules of time and space that you mere mortals must live with.
I don’t need to worry about identity theft. No one wants to be me.
My Review:
This author is a wily minx! I adored and despised her as I read and adored and despised her tragic and tensely emotive and prickly storylines, which were populated with curiously compelling characters who were rather awful human beings. I thought they were appallingly weak and horrible people until about 80% into the book and it broke my heart when I realized how wrong I had been. The tale was steeped in angst, which is one of my least favorite things in the world, yet my brain was itching to know every little thing. I couldn’t put it down and wanted to hiss at every interruption to my perusal.
I was on edge, tense, nibbling my cuticles, biting my lips, my shoulders up in my ears, the knots in my neck and shoulders had additional knots of their own. I was confounded by my investment and attraction to these devastating storylines full of woe. The writing was insightfully observant, cunningly evocative, and poignant with oddly alluring intrigue and bewitching word voodoo that kept me tethered to my Kindle as I navigated this maddeningly paced, taut, and complex tale with a level of tension that continued to build exponentially. Even during those unavoidable periods when I was forced to put my Kindle down, also known as adulting and sleep, I found myself ruminating about the characters. I had five pages of marked quotes. There were multiple layers to this tale as well as to the complicated cast, in addition to a series of heart-clenching and unexpected twists. It was tragic, heartbreaking, and in the end - rather brilliant.
August 30, 2019
Daisy and Simon are desperate to have children. The turmoil and stress they have to go through as they undergo tests and fertility treatment is horrendous. Finally they have a daughter, Millie. But the stress of having her has taken its toll on them and their relationship. Simon has started drinking. They are starting to drift apart. Then a starting revelation at the fertility clinic changes their lives forever.
This is a story with characters who give out mixed emotions. At times I felt sorry for them and other times I was rooting for them all the way. The characters and storyline were true to life. Readers will either know or be the people this story is all about. (Hopefully not the ending). Obviously there is a lot of lies around this storyline that's also got lots of twists. The only person I felt truly sorry for was Millie. The story is told from Daisy and Simons point of view. I do recommend this book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, HQ and the author Adele Parks for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a story with characters who give out mixed emotions. At times I felt sorry for them and other times I was rooting for them all the way. The characters and storyline were true to life. Readers will either know or be the people this story is all about. (Hopefully not the ending). Obviously there is a lot of lies around this storyline that's also got lots of twists. The only person I felt truly sorry for was Millie. The story is told from Daisy and Simons point of view. I do recommend this book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, HQ and the author Adele Parks for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 27, 2020
2.5 Unpopular Opinion Stars
Oh, these reviews are the hardest to write. This one started off very slowly and depressing for me. In fact, I almost did not finish it. You should not think of this one as a thriller, it is much more domestic fiction about the breakdown of a marriage – mostly by alcoholism.
Daisy and Simon are the featured characters and Simon is the one struggling (and losing) with alcohol. Things are spiraling out of control and there is a terrible incident one night after a party. We get to hear from both Daisy and Simon, so I appreciated hearing both sides of the tale. However, I did not gain any sympathy for either character, I am not sure if this was the author’s intent or just my perception of the book. I did enjoy Daisy’s female friendships and wish that had been more of the story.
The second half is slightly better, but I found this one to have so many twists (lies?) at the end that it made my head spin. One was just unbelievable.
I really enjoyed her first book “I Invited Her In” – but this one left me wanting more. I know several people have given this one 4-5 stars, so it might just be me and I encourage you to judge for yourself. As always, my reviews are my own opinion.
Thank you to NetGalley, Adele Parks, and Harlequin for the chance to read an early copy of this one in return for an honest review.
Oh, these reviews are the hardest to write. This one started off very slowly and depressing for me. In fact, I almost did not finish it. You should not think of this one as a thriller, it is much more domestic fiction about the breakdown of a marriage – mostly by alcoholism.
Daisy and Simon are the featured characters and Simon is the one struggling (and losing) with alcohol. Things are spiraling out of control and there is a terrible incident one night after a party. We get to hear from both Daisy and Simon, so I appreciated hearing both sides of the tale. However, I did not gain any sympathy for either character, I am not sure if this was the author’s intent or just my perception of the book. I did enjoy Daisy’s female friendships and wish that had been more of the story.
The second half is slightly better, but I found this one to have so many twists (lies?) at the end that it made my head spin. One was just unbelievable.
I really enjoyed her first book “I Invited Her In” – but this one left me wanting more. I know several people have given this one 4-5 stars, so it might just be me and I encourage you to judge for yourself. As always, my reviews are my own opinion.
Thank you to NetGalley, Adele Parks, and Harlequin for the chance to read an early copy of this one in return for an honest review.
August 29, 2019
Intense!
Adele Parks tells stories with gusto and with a very clever way of almost ‘chatting’ the story to you, in confidence!, the characters talk as if telling you and just you the story,when I went back to the book throughout the few days I was reading it it felt like it had waited for me and then, off it started again
I LOVE this authors writing style and the abundance of words in each chapter, I also love the way although the book was dark there were many rye observations and humour
The story itself is grimly tragic, very involving and covers some uncomfortable topics, got to say though the portrayal of Simon’s alcoholism was genius, never have I understood an addiction so well and how it affects every angle of a life then when reading this AND he was
kept ‘human’, his utter frustration at his situation followed by gay abandon the next was compelling, chilling and moving, Daisy, his wife has some massive issues and suffered major traumas that we find out about throughout the book, these events all lead to lies, many lies and more lies, surprises and nasty shocks that keep on coming, Daisy was at times irritating in her weakness but then when we found out why that part made perfect sense, very cleverly done by the author, I literally had zero clue what was to come
Really its a fabulous read that will at times sicken and anger you and other times endear you but will leave you with a sense of having read a fantastic book
10/10
5 Stars
Adele Parks tells stories with gusto and with a very clever way of almost ‘chatting’ the story to you, in confidence!, the characters talk as if telling you and just you the story,when I went back to the book throughout the few days I was reading it it felt like it had waited for me and then, off it started again
I LOVE this authors writing style and the abundance of words in each chapter, I also love the way although the book was dark there were many rye observations and humour
The story itself is grimly tragic, very involving and covers some uncomfortable topics, got to say though the portrayal of Simon’s alcoholism was genius, never have I understood an addiction so well and how it affects every angle of a life then when reading this AND he was
kept ‘human’, his utter frustration at his situation followed by gay abandon the next was compelling, chilling and moving, Daisy, his wife has some massive issues and suffered major traumas that we find out about throughout the book, these events all lead to lies, many lies and more lies, surprises and nasty shocks that keep on coming, Daisy was at times irritating in her weakness but then when we found out why that part made perfect sense, very cleverly done by the author, I literally had zero clue what was to come
Really its a fabulous read that will at times sicken and anger you and other times endear you but will leave you with a sense of having read a fantastic book
10/10
5 Stars
August 4, 2020
Unlikeable/flawed characters? Lies, Lies, Lies is packed with them!
The first 40% of this book is really slow, not much happening ... I considered a DNF but pushed through - it definitely picks up after that point and throws in a couple curve balls, unexpected twists. Unfortunately it still wasn't enough to blow me away ...
The ending is a little too neat, far fetched and definitely convenient ...
Thank you to NetGalley and Mira books for my review copy!
The first 40% of this book is really slow, not much happening ... I considered a DNF but pushed through - it definitely picks up after that point and throws in a couple curve balls, unexpected twists. Unfortunately it still wasn't enough to blow me away ...
The ending is a little too neat, far fetched and definitely convenient ...
Thank you to NetGalley and Mira books for my review copy!
October 3, 2019
This book was a really good read. I liked how it had both Daisy and Simon chapters so we could see the story in both of their perspectives. The story was really good and interesting and just goes to show how one lie can escalate and turn your world upside down. It was a tense thriller and a real page turner. I can’t wait for the next Adele Parks book already.
September 20, 2019
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
Lies Lies Lies, written by Sunday Times bestselling author Adele Parks, offers a compelling study of the nature and impact of lies on a small family unit at crisis point. Daisy and Simon, the leads of this tale, have a seemingly perfect marriage to onlookers, but their relationship is put to the ultimate test when one lie ricochets right through their once happy union.
With almost twenty novels to her name, of varied genres, the latest novel from British author Adele Parks is of a similar genre to her previous novel that I enjoyed last year, I Invited Her In. Lies Lies Lies is a suburban noir novel, that explores the intricacies of a marriage under the threat of issues of alcoholism, infertility and control. Daisy and Simon, the leads of this tale, have had many happy years together, but their relationship has been strained by Simon’s alcoholism and their infertility issues. They are lucky to be blessed with one child, but they long for another to complete their family. All this comes to a head when a medical professional reveals that there is no way Simon could have fathered his own daughter. Things quickly spiral out of control and soon after a terrible mistake is made, striking at the very heart of this crumbling family unit.
Lies Lies Lies begins with a really interesting prologue that immediately hooked me in to latest book from Adele Parks. I actually would have liked more exploration into the background of Simon, the male lead of this story, which Parks covers in the opening of her latest novel. I was determined to get to the bottom of Simon’s problems and analyse him psychologically! He was a fascinating principal character, and although he made some ill choices in his life throughout the progression of the novel, I had an inherent need to understand him. Following the hooking prologue, Lies Lies Lies bounces around from 2016 to 2019, and it splits narration between the focus couple of this tale, Simon and Daisy. I appreciated this mode of storytelling, as it provides the reader with a direct and varied insight into a marriage under intense pressure.
In terms of the themes of this novel, Parks deftly explores the impact of lies. Adele Parks looks specifically at a lie that is told with the purpose to protect someone from pain or suffering, which was an interesting angle. Parks also covers alcoholism with sensitivity and direct insight. In addition, infertility is an issue that encircles the couple of this tale, providing the audience with a sense of understanding of what it would feel like to be placed in the difficult bind Daisy and Simon find themselves in. Supporting these dark themes are sequences of harassment, blackmail, intimidation, justice, friendship, infidelity and dementia/ageing. Lies Lies Lies is certainly a full tale, defined by plenty twists, turns and unexpected moments that will leave your heart pounding in your chest.
I am sure I could continue to review Lies Lies Lies much further, but I am mindful of ruining the key plot points that define this addictive new novel from Adele Parks. Lies Lies Lies is compelling, critically minded and deeply psychological. This is one solid domestic noir novel, that will capture your attention from the prologue to the final word.
Lies Lies Lies, written by Sunday Times bestselling author Adele Parks, offers a compelling study of the nature and impact of lies on a small family unit at crisis point. Daisy and Simon, the leads of this tale, have a seemingly perfect marriage to onlookers, but their relationship is put to the ultimate test when one lie ricochets right through their once happy union.
With almost twenty novels to her name, of varied genres, the latest novel from British author Adele Parks is of a similar genre to her previous novel that I enjoyed last year, I Invited Her In. Lies Lies Lies is a suburban noir novel, that explores the intricacies of a marriage under the threat of issues of alcoholism, infertility and control. Daisy and Simon, the leads of this tale, have had many happy years together, but their relationship has been strained by Simon’s alcoholism and their infertility issues. They are lucky to be blessed with one child, but they long for another to complete their family. All this comes to a head when a medical professional reveals that there is no way Simon could have fathered his own daughter. Things quickly spiral out of control and soon after a terrible mistake is made, striking at the very heart of this crumbling family unit.
Lies Lies Lies begins with a really interesting prologue that immediately hooked me in to latest book from Adele Parks. I actually would have liked more exploration into the background of Simon, the male lead of this story, which Parks covers in the opening of her latest novel. I was determined to get to the bottom of Simon’s problems and analyse him psychologically! He was a fascinating principal character, and although he made some ill choices in his life throughout the progression of the novel, I had an inherent need to understand him. Following the hooking prologue, Lies Lies Lies bounces around from 2016 to 2019, and it splits narration between the focus couple of this tale, Simon and Daisy. I appreciated this mode of storytelling, as it provides the reader with a direct and varied insight into a marriage under intense pressure.
In terms of the themes of this novel, Parks deftly explores the impact of lies. Adele Parks looks specifically at a lie that is told with the purpose to protect someone from pain or suffering, which was an interesting angle. Parks also covers alcoholism with sensitivity and direct insight. In addition, infertility is an issue that encircles the couple of this tale, providing the audience with a sense of understanding of what it would feel like to be placed in the difficult bind Daisy and Simon find themselves in. Supporting these dark themes are sequences of harassment, blackmail, intimidation, justice, friendship, infidelity and dementia/ageing. Lies Lies Lies is certainly a full tale, defined by plenty twists, turns and unexpected moments that will leave your heart pounding in your chest.
I am sure I could continue to review Lies Lies Lies much further, but I am mindful of ruining the key plot points that define this addictive new novel from Adele Parks. Lies Lies Lies is compelling, critically minded and deeply psychological. This is one solid domestic noir novel, that will capture your attention from the prologue to the final word.
August 10, 2020
Daisy and Simon have been married for years. As in all marriages they have had their ups and downs. So when they finally got pregnant and had their daughter Millie five years ago they were ecstatic. Now Simon wants to have another child and Daisy is reluctant. Millie is a handful. But Simon insists they at least go for the consult. Daisy agrees not knowing that Simon has already started the process behind her back. And what Simon discovers will change their lives forever.
Daisy notices Simon, who has always been a heavy drinker, begin to spiral out of control with his drinking. They begin to fight. He drinks even more. Daisy cannot understand what has happened to Simon. Then Simon loses his job and begins to resent Daisy. Now at home, he drinks even more.
Then a horrible accident destroys their family.
Daisy and Simon, who both have had secrets and lies between them are shattered to the core. They are haunted by what happened. Daisy refuses to see Simon. Simon finally begins to get what little life he has left back together. But Simon has been lying. Daisy tries to move on and begins a not so healthy relationship with someone she knew from college. She has her own lies to deal with.
But Simon and Daisy even with a shattered marriage have one common denominator...Millie, who they both love unconditionally. They will do anything to keep her safe. No matter what that entails.
With so many lies, can either of them really trust the other to offer up the truth? Could they possibly work through all the falsehoods they have told? For Millie's sake?
Up until the last page, this is an unpredictable story with hidden nuggets which make you want to read a second time to see what you may have missed. With each lie, there is a surprise and with each surprise there is a consequence. The story will make you gasp out loud at times. It is a masterful heart-thumping page turner, with characters you think you know, but perhaps you really never did.
Thank you #NetGalley #MIRA/Harlequin #Lies,Lies,Lies #AdeleParks for the advanced copy.
Daisy notices Simon, who has always been a heavy drinker, begin to spiral out of control with his drinking. They begin to fight. He drinks even more. Daisy cannot understand what has happened to Simon. Then Simon loses his job and begins to resent Daisy. Now at home, he drinks even more.
Then a horrible accident destroys their family.
Daisy and Simon, who both have had secrets and lies between them are shattered to the core. They are haunted by what happened. Daisy refuses to see Simon. Simon finally begins to get what little life he has left back together. But Simon has been lying. Daisy tries to move on and begins a not so healthy relationship with someone she knew from college. She has her own lies to deal with.
But Simon and Daisy even with a shattered marriage have one common denominator...Millie, who they both love unconditionally. They will do anything to keep her safe. No matter what that entails.
With so many lies, can either of them really trust the other to offer up the truth? Could they possibly work through all the falsehoods they have told? For Millie's sake?
Up until the last page, this is an unpredictable story with hidden nuggets which make you want to read a second time to see what you may have missed. With each lie, there is a surprise and with each surprise there is a consequence. The story will make you gasp out loud at times. It is a masterful heart-thumping page turner, with characters you think you know, but perhaps you really never did.
Thank you #NetGalley #MIRA/Harlequin #Lies,Lies,Lies #AdeleParks for the advanced copy.
August 10, 2020
Lies Lies Lies by Adele Parks
This is a shocking story of lies and unlikeable characters and it’s an addictive page turner!
Daisy and Simon have been together for years and have the most perfect, miracle six-year-old daughter named Millie. When Millie was first born Daisy had struggled big time, the doctor had called it postnatal depression.
Simon reckons it’s time they should try to have another child so an IVF appointment is made. After the appointment and a startling revelation, Simon starts to drink a lot more than usual and things get dark and spiral out of control leading to a horrific event after returning home from a friend’s party they attended together.
There are many twists and turns in this story and lots of secrets, the relationships in this story are realistically flawed and jaw dropping.
Towards the end of the story another shocking secret is revealed.
I loved the writing style, the story really comes together cleverly towards the end, this was an unputdownable dark family drama of LIES, friendships, LIES, alcohol abuse, LIES, addiction, LIES, domestic violence, LIES and sexual violence.
This is a shocking story of lies and unlikeable characters and it’s an addictive page turner!
Daisy and Simon have been together for years and have the most perfect, miracle six-year-old daughter named Millie. When Millie was first born Daisy had struggled big time, the doctor had called it postnatal depression.
Simon reckons it’s time they should try to have another child so an IVF appointment is made. After the appointment and a startling revelation, Simon starts to drink a lot more than usual and things get dark and spiral out of control leading to a horrific event after returning home from a friend’s party they attended together.
There are many twists and turns in this story and lots of secrets, the relationships in this story are realistically flawed and jaw dropping.
Towards the end of the story another shocking secret is revealed.
I loved the writing style, the story really comes together cleverly towards the end, this was an unputdownable dark family drama of LIES, friendships, LIES, alcohol abuse, LIES, addiction, LIES, domestic violence, LIES and sexual violence.
May 10, 2020
I bought my own paperback Lies Lies Lies from Amazon.
I have read many books by Adele Parks as she is one of my favourite author. I have enjoyed the other books that I have read by Adele, some of which I may not have reviewed here on Goodreads. Although the idea Daisy and Simon marriage isn't great and Simon drinks too much, and then there are secrets with lies lies lies. But I'm afraid there wasn't enough to say within this story to say I loved this book. I was disappointed with this story as I'm a real lover of fictional marriage problems and Daisy and Simon didn't grab my attention. But I'm pleased that Adele has highlighted the on growing problem of drinking far too much. And with lies lies lies.
I have read many books by Adele Parks as she is one of my favourite author. I have enjoyed the other books that I have read by Adele, some of which I may not have reviewed here on Goodreads. Although the idea Daisy and Simon marriage isn't great and Simon drinks too much, and then there are secrets with lies lies lies. But I'm afraid there wasn't enough to say within this story to say I loved this book. I was disappointed with this story as I'm a real lover of fictional marriage problems and Daisy and Simon didn't grab my attention. But I'm pleased that Adele has highlighted the on growing problem of drinking far too much. And with lies lies lies.
August 10, 2020
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
Lies, Lies, Lies by Adele Parks is a domestic noir/psychological thriller that managed to surprise me with several plot twists. I have not had an easy time with this genre lately and been in a slump, but I was pleasantly surprised with this story.
Daisy and Simon were married young along with their circle of friends. While their friends started having families, Daisy and Simon had difficulty getting pregnant. Finally, after years of trying they were blessed with a beautiful baby girl they named Millie.
Their family of three was perfect in every way, so when Millie turned five-years-old, Simon asked Daisy if they could try for another child. Daisy does not want another child, but she will not tell Simon why. Simon’s drinking has been a problem and it is only getting worse. As they argue on their way home from a party with friends where Simon has once again been drinking and out of control, they are in an auto accident that will change the happy little family of three forever.
This is a tale of a marriage that has each partner keeping secrets that lead to lies that ultimately poison the relationship and after a tragedy, the marriage implodes. Ms. Parks does an excellent job of keeping the reader engaged with plot twists that can completely change their perspectives. I feel she also does an excellent job of describing the fall from functional alcoholic to nonfunctioning. Yes, most of the problems, except for Simon’s alcoholism could have been solved if they just told the truth as problems occurred, but that does not happen until “The End”.
I recommend this domestic noir/psychological thriller.
Lies, Lies, Lies by Adele Parks is a domestic noir/psychological thriller that managed to surprise me with several plot twists. I have not had an easy time with this genre lately and been in a slump, but I was pleasantly surprised with this story.
Daisy and Simon were married young along with their circle of friends. While their friends started having families, Daisy and Simon had difficulty getting pregnant. Finally, after years of trying they were blessed with a beautiful baby girl they named Millie.
Their family of three was perfect in every way, so when Millie turned five-years-old, Simon asked Daisy if they could try for another child. Daisy does not want another child, but she will not tell Simon why. Simon’s drinking has been a problem and it is only getting worse. As they argue on their way home from a party with friends where Simon has once again been drinking and out of control, they are in an auto accident that will change the happy little family of three forever.
This is a tale of a marriage that has each partner keeping secrets that lead to lies that ultimately poison the relationship and after a tragedy, the marriage implodes. Ms. Parks does an excellent job of keeping the reader engaged with plot twists that can completely change their perspectives. I feel she also does an excellent job of describing the fall from functional alcoholic to nonfunctioning. Yes, most of the problems, except for Simon’s alcoholism could have been solved if they just told the truth as problems occurred, but that does not happen until “The End”.
I recommend this domestic noir/psychological thriller.
April 19, 2020
Lies Lies Lies by Adele Parks absolutely blew me away with its deep dive into the mechanics of a dysfunctional marriage. This one is well-written, sharply observed, and so much more than your typical, predictable dark domestic drama. I could not put this down for a moment.
Daisy and Simon have struggled with infertility, so when their longed for daughter Millie arrives, everything seems to, at last, have fallen into place. But Simon is quite fond of a drink, a pleasure that he cannot deny himself, even if it causes distress and anguish for his wife and daughter. One dark night, as the relationship between Simon and Daisy seems to be at a tipping point, a tragedy befalls the small family, one that will take them to the very brink, and an already fractured marriage will be laid bare and more vulnerable than ever before.
This novel is a masterpiece of character development, and for this alone I was drawn in from the very start. The twists and turns that are so strategically laid out are just the icing on the cake, and I simply couldn't turn the pages quickly enough. I cannot wait to see what the amazingly talented Ms Parks has in store next.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin - Trade Publishing (U.S. & Canada) for this wonderful ARC.
Daisy and Simon have struggled with infertility, so when their longed for daughter Millie arrives, everything seems to, at last, have fallen into place. But Simon is quite fond of a drink, a pleasure that he cannot deny himself, even if it causes distress and anguish for his wife and daughter. One dark night, as the relationship between Simon and Daisy seems to be at a tipping point, a tragedy befalls the small family, one that will take them to the very brink, and an already fractured marriage will be laid bare and more vulnerable than ever before.
This novel is a masterpiece of character development, and for this alone I was drawn in from the very start. The twists and turns that are so strategically laid out are just the icing on the cake, and I simply couldn't turn the pages quickly enough. I cannot wait to see what the amazingly talented Ms Parks has in store next.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin - Trade Publishing (U.S. & Canada) for this wonderful ARC.
October 13, 2019
Rife with implausibilities - sluggish dark domestic drama with characters I struggled to believe in.
After enjoying Adele Parks previous novel, I Invited Her In, this follow-up came as a huge disappointment and proved quite a slog to actually finish, none of which is helped by several blatantly implausible occurrences immediately prior to the conclusion. Although the novel tackles some very sensitive issues it was not this that was my issue but rather the lazy characterisation and a lacklustre pace that failed to inject any tension regardless of whatever events befell the cast.
Forty-four-year-old primary school teacher, Daisy Barnes, is content with her lot having been married to interior designer Simon for sixteen years, and after ten years of trying and four rounds of IVF having finally conceived naturally. Six-year-old ballet dancing protégée, Millie, is perfect in every way and despite Daisy’s advancing age and their previous difficulties, headstrong Simon railroads Daisy into attending an appointment as a fertility clinic and considering another child. But despite Simon’s heavy drinking and her reluctance fo tempt fate, Daisy finds it easier to go along with his plan and wait for the doctor to make apparent their dwindling chances. When Simon’s storms out of his individual doctor’s meeting tense and on edge after some devastating news, he starts to question everything in his life, from his marriage to whether he is actually Millie’s father. Brooding and bitter, he is soon on a slippery downward slope to alcoholism and risking everything from his career and marriage to the child he adores..
When events come to a dramatic head with irrevocable implications for their future, the fallout is messy and brutal and plays out before the reader.
The unfolding novel spans three years in the lives of the Barnes’ family and alternates between chapters narrated in the first-person by Daisy with Simon’s perspective conveyed in the third- person. Both equally flawed, Simon’s stubbornness and excessive drinking make him the obvious bad guy, however Daisy is judgy and infuriatingly passive-aggressive, avoids difficult subjects and fails to clearly communicate with those that feature closely in her life and supposedly include friends of two decades. Whilst Simon’s drinking is pretty much an open secret amongst those that know him, self-contained Daisy is slow very private and Adele Parks slow unwind spools out her own convoluted backstory, that takes the story in an unconvincing direction from which is descends into melodrama and silliness with a highly questionable resolution.
Readable but not entirely compelling. Billed as a domestic psychological thriller I was hoping for a realistic and emotive read, but sadly the novel was marred by numerous unlikely occurrences and some utterly bizarre reactions from characters that failed to convince.
After enjoying Adele Parks previous novel, I Invited Her In, this follow-up came as a huge disappointment and proved quite a slog to actually finish, none of which is helped by several blatantly implausible occurrences immediately prior to the conclusion. Although the novel tackles some very sensitive issues it was not this that was my issue but rather the lazy characterisation and a lacklustre pace that failed to inject any tension regardless of whatever events befell the cast.
Forty-four-year-old primary school teacher, Daisy Barnes, is content with her lot having been married to interior designer Simon for sixteen years, and after ten years of trying and four rounds of IVF having finally conceived naturally. Six-year-old ballet dancing protégée, Millie, is perfect in every way and despite Daisy’s advancing age and their previous difficulties, headstrong Simon railroads Daisy into attending an appointment as a fertility clinic and considering another child. But despite Simon’s heavy drinking and her reluctance fo tempt fate, Daisy finds it easier to go along with his plan and wait for the doctor to make apparent their dwindling chances. When Simon’s storms out of his individual doctor’s meeting tense and on edge after some devastating news, he starts to question everything in his life, from his marriage to whether he is actually Millie’s father. Brooding and bitter, he is soon on a slippery downward slope to alcoholism and risking everything from his career and marriage to the child he adores..
When events come to a dramatic head with irrevocable implications for their future, the fallout is messy and brutal and plays out before the reader.
The unfolding novel spans three years in the lives of the Barnes’ family and alternates between chapters narrated in the first-person by Daisy with Simon’s perspective conveyed in the third- person. Both equally flawed, Simon’s stubbornness and excessive drinking make him the obvious bad guy, however Daisy is judgy and infuriatingly passive-aggressive, avoids difficult subjects and fails to clearly communicate with those that feature closely in her life and supposedly include friends of two decades. Whilst Simon’s drinking is pretty much an open secret amongst those that know him, self-contained Daisy is slow very private and Adele Parks slow unwind spools out her own convoluted backstory, that takes the story in an unconvincing direction from which is descends into melodrama and silliness with a highly questionable resolution.
Readable but not entirely compelling. Billed as a domestic psychological thriller I was hoping for a realistic and emotive read, but sadly the novel was marred by numerous unlikely occurrences and some utterly bizarre reactions from characters that failed to convince.
August 3, 2020
This is one of those mystery/suspense novels you have to work for to get the payoff. The layers are complicated, which I appreciate, but there were times I couldn’t help but get frustrated with the characters and think, “If you would just tell the truth . . .” Of course, then there would be no novel. I understand why the characters didn’t want to speak out, but yeesh.
This is told from the alternating points of view of married couple Simon and Daisy. They tried for years and many expensive treatments and finally had Millie. Millie is six when Simon uncovers a lie that makes his drinking go from bad to truly terrible. Addiction is a thing that not many marriages can survive, but pile on top of that significant lies between the partners, and you’re going to have real trouble.
I liked these complex characters and their friendships.
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this novel, which RELEASES SEPTEMBER 5, 2020.
This is told from the alternating points of view of married couple Simon and Daisy. They tried for years and many expensive treatments and finally had Millie. Millie is six when Simon uncovers a lie that makes his drinking go from bad to truly terrible. Addiction is a thing that not many marriages can survive, but pile on top of that significant lies between the partners, and you’re going to have real trouble.
I liked these complex characters and their friendships.
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this novel, which RELEASES SEPTEMBER 5, 2020.
August 3, 2020
Many thanks to NetGalley, Harlequin and Adele Parks for the opportunity to read and review her latest thriller - 4 stars for a twisty look into a troubled couple's life.
Daisy and Simon are parents to young Millie, their child born after a struggle with infertility. From the outside, they look like the perfect family. Daisy is a school teacher and Simon an interior designer, while Millie has sparkle and the potential to be a dancer. But behind that facade, Simon has a drinking problem, one that is getting out of control and culminates with a terrible accident that changes all for this family.
Enough said about the plot line, this has plenty of twists to keep you glued to the pages. With the alternating views of Simon and Daisy, we see how their relationship starts and progresses as well as lots of hints about all the secrets and lies between them. Friends both old and new play a big part in this book as well, adding layers to the story.
Daisy and Simon are parents to young Millie, their child born after a struggle with infertility. From the outside, they look like the perfect family. Daisy is a school teacher and Simon an interior designer, while Millie has sparkle and the potential to be a dancer. But behind that facade, Simon has a drinking problem, one that is getting out of control and culminates with a terrible accident that changes all for this family.
Enough said about the plot line, this has plenty of twists to keep you glued to the pages. With the alternating views of Simon and Daisy, we see how their relationship starts and progresses as well as lots of hints about all the secrets and lies between them. Friends both old and new play a big part in this book as well, adding layers to the story.
January 16, 2022
I had this on my TBR for ages, again maybe it should have stayed there.
Great portrayal of alcholism but for me the story was a slow burn with some major twisty elements. The ending unfortunately just finished me off. I usually enjoy Adele Parks but this one didn't work for me at all.
Great portrayal of alcholism but for me the story was a slow burn with some major twisty elements. The ending unfortunately just finished me off. I usually enjoy Adele Parks but this one didn't work for me at all.
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