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The Little Lies
A young woman's idyllic life comes apart when her past comes back to haunt her in this psychological thriller by the author of the Dublin Murder Mysteries.
After working as a hospital nurse in Dubai and London, Jodie settles down in Kent. With her job at a quiet nursing home and her loving new relationship, it seems that she's finally put her troubled past behind her. But someone from her childhood has been following her for years. And he's decided it's time to makes his presence felt . . .
When Jodie receives a distressing call from her manager, her life takes an unexpected turn. Suddenly she's suspended and under investigation. Then her past comes thundering back with a strange parcel tied to her front door. As everything begins to crumble around her, she wonders who she can trust.
After working as a hospital nurse in Dubai and London, Jodie settles down in Kent. With her job at a quiet nursing home and her loving new relationship, it seems that she's finally put her troubled past behind her. But someone from her childhood has been following her for years. And he's decided it's time to makes his presence felt . . .
When Jodie receives a distressing call from her manager, her life takes an unexpected turn. Suddenly she's suspended and under investigation. Then her past comes thundering back with a strange parcel tied to her front door. As everything begins to crumble around her, she wonders who she can trust.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 3, 2021
1012 people are currently reading
1007 people want to read
About the author
Valerie Keogh
48 books837 followersValerie started to write several years ago. She self-published eight crime novels and one psychological thriller before signing a two book contract with Bookouture in March 2018. The first of these, Secrets Between Us, is available now and the second is due in Feb 2019. She is a registered nurse with a degree in English and a Masters in American Literature. Recently she has given up nursing to concentrate on her writing career.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
February 3, 2021
After reading so many of Keogh‘s books and enjoying them all, I was wondering when, or if, I would come across one that I would not like. Well, here it is. Rather than experiencing the thrilling rollercoaster of a read that I expect from Keogh, this felt more like a merry-go-round – and one that I would rather get off from, as soon as possible.
Despite the plot moving relatively quickly, aided by the short chapters, I found the content rather stagnant and pretty obvious. Early on, I had my suspicions about how I thought the plot would develop and I had hoped I would be proven incorrect. There is not much to the story with Jodie being fired from her nursing home post over a mistake that she believes she has been framed for. Gradually, we learn that Jodie has quite a few secrets and this is incorporated into the story with a change of narrative perspective. Indeed, the three main characters of Jodie, Flynn and Victor are all closely connected. It is only as these secrets are revealed do we understand the extent of these connections.
As much as I tried, I could not sympathise with Jodie. I thought that she made rash decisions when it came to her relationship with Flynn and, although she has a bleak past, did not believe she had learnt from her experiences. When the blue baby shoes begin turning up at her door, I found her approach to the “evidence” rather erratic and illogical. It was not a favoured characteristic and this led me to grow frustrated with Jodie.
I persevered with this story, hoping for the spark that would ignite the plot. In my opinion, this never came. I think because the narrative is so focused on these three people with not much content, there were little distractions and not enough action to provide the story with some much-needed adrenalin. Keogh’s writing is usually full of twists and turns but this book seemed very “middle of the road” and lacking in any anticipation.
As far as thrillers go, I think others by Keogh are far better. By the closing of the novel, I felt incredibly uncomfortable and was unhappy that my predictions were correct – very unusual! I don’t think this is her best work but, if you are after something a little bit different with few characters, then this may appeal.
With thanks to Bloodhound books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Despite the plot moving relatively quickly, aided by the short chapters, I found the content rather stagnant and pretty obvious. Early on, I had my suspicions about how I thought the plot would develop and I had hoped I would be proven incorrect. There is not much to the story with Jodie being fired from her nursing home post over a mistake that she believes she has been framed for. Gradually, we learn that Jodie has quite a few secrets and this is incorporated into the story with a change of narrative perspective. Indeed, the three main characters of Jodie, Flynn and Victor are all closely connected. It is only as these secrets are revealed do we understand the extent of these connections.
As much as I tried, I could not sympathise with Jodie. I thought that she made rash decisions when it came to her relationship with Flynn and, although she has a bleak past, did not believe she had learnt from her experiences. When the blue baby shoes begin turning up at her door, I found her approach to the “evidence” rather erratic and illogical. It was not a favoured characteristic and this led me to grow frustrated with Jodie.
I persevered with this story, hoping for the spark that would ignite the plot. In my opinion, this never came. I think because the narrative is so focused on these three people with not much content, there were little distractions and not enough action to provide the story with some much-needed adrenalin. Keogh’s writing is usually full of twists and turns but this book seemed very “middle of the road” and lacking in any anticipation.
As far as thrillers go, I think others by Keogh are far better. By the closing of the novel, I felt incredibly uncomfortable and was unhappy that my predictions were correct – very unusual! I don’t think this is her best work but, if you are after something a little bit different with few characters, then this may appeal.
With thanks to Bloodhound books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 10, 2021
Wow! What a cracking book! I found myself unable to put it down!
What dips and twists the story took along the way.
I did like Jodie and I felt for her, and I admired the no nonsense approach that she took about her past when she could have been full of woe.
I do like this author's books as they are thrillers without the need of gory scenes.
Highly recommended!
What dips and twists the story took along the way.
I did like Jodie and I felt for her, and I admired the no nonsense approach that she took about her past when she could have been full of woe.
I do like this author's books as they are thrillers without the need of gory scenes.
Highly recommended!
February 25, 2025
What the bleep did I just read????
February 25, 2021
A quick read, but just an absolutely ridiculous storyline. I enjoy books that engage with social taboos, but when our main character discovers , this book just flies off the rails and becomes a complete joke.
April 2, 2021
When Jodie, a nurse with a long-held secret, starts dating Flynn she believes the past is firmly behind her.
Little does she know that Victor Hill, a man from her childhood, has been following her for years and thinks it's time he makes his presence felt.
Jodie is certain that nothing can spoil her life, but a call from the manager of the nursing home where she works changes everything.
Wow! What a book!
The plot moves very quickly and there are twists throughout right till the end. I didn't particularly love any of the characters but they all are well written.
Even though I had a slight doubt about where the plot was going, thanks to the small hints hidden in the plot, I was still shocked when the secrets are revealed. Also, the ending leaves you wondering about Jodie's actions and decisions.
Overall, an enjoyable read.
Little does she know that Victor Hill, a man from her childhood, has been following her for years and thinks it's time he makes his presence felt.
Jodie is certain that nothing can spoil her life, but a call from the manager of the nursing home where she works changes everything.
Wow! What a book!
The plot moves very quickly and there are twists throughout right till the end. I didn't particularly love any of the characters but they all are well written.
Even though I had a slight doubt about where the plot was going, thanks to the small hints hidden in the plot, I was still shocked when the secrets are revealed. Also, the ending leaves you wondering about Jodie's actions and decisions.
Overall, an enjoyable read.
April 19, 2021
Gross
Spoiler... I thought the book was "okay" as I was reading it. The so-called twist is disgusting and the main character's reaction is appalling. The author needs to learn some biology... a mother conceiving a child with her biological son after forgetting her birth control one time and giving birth to a perfectly healthy baby? Good grief.
Spoiler... I thought the book was "okay" as I was reading it. The so-called twist is disgusting and the main character's reaction is appalling. The author needs to learn some biology... a mother conceiving a child with her biological son after forgetting her birth control one time and giving birth to a perfectly healthy baby? Good grief.
September 13, 2022
منزجرم از خوندنش.
January 6, 2021
when you start a book buy this author you know its going to be very twisty and addictive ,Jodie Armstrong is a nurse at a care home and single .she stops at a Cafe on her way home and she meets gorgeous Flynn he is younger than her but they connect so a romance starts but Jodie has a secret and that secret is following her .then Jodie loses her job accused of negligence for leaving tablets in a room but she did not who got it in for her .and Flynn has a secret to . how this story unfolds is just brilliant i cried so cant wait for this authors next book she so so good ,
August 12, 2021
I love a thriller with a good twist but this really didn't sit well with me. And they all lived happily ever after - really? Incest, murder, pregnancy from sex with your own child. The author deals with some hugely controversial issues but ends it all so easily with no ramifications, no mental health issues as a result of getting pregnant by your own child and also murdering someone. Everyone is happy at the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2021
I want to forget I read this book
The gross twist, huge plot holes and ridiculous ending made me wish I never read this. If you like highly unbelievable “thrillers” (quote marks because it’s hardly a thriller) with a gross social taboo then you may enjoy it. I didn’t.
The gross twist, huge plot holes and ridiculous ending made me wish I never read this. If you like highly unbelievable “thrillers” (quote marks because it’s hardly a thriller) with a gross social taboo then you may enjoy it. I didn’t.
April 19, 2021
I liked reading it until then ending. No. Just no.
August 10, 2022
I kept hoping the plot twist I suspected wan’t right. It was. Beyond revolting.
February 7, 2021
Oh what a jaw dropping and rather morally questionable ending! Readers are in for a shock which makes the book extremely gripping and easy to read.
The characters are really well depicted and I loved the premise of the novel which surrounds the question of love, sexual love, consent and age.
Jodie is our narrator, working in a local care home as a registered nurse. The opening inspires curiosity and instant desire to find out more. I love Valerie Keogh's style of writing and in this offering she swiftly delivers a plot full of intrigue and evil lurking, which sets the reader on edge as suspicion reaches out and touches almost every character. Some touches might be fleeting whilst others are so firm there is no way Suspicion's fingers are going to let go.
Someone is planning a meticulous campaign against Jodie, to discredit her and ruin her life. It is subtle to begin with, increasing in intensity and becoming overtly sinister. Who is responsible?
There is a very dark presence in the background of Jodie's life. A man from long ago who was much older than her and caused her trauma that has had life long consequences and is a mother's worst nightmare for her daughter. This evil personnified is Victor Hill, released from prison and following Jodie. The thing is, sometimes danger comes in many forms and from many sources, and the most obvious danger can be the one we don't see coming. Jodie's new beau Flynn Douglas and her best mate both come under the scrutiny of Trust. Will either be found wanting?
There is heartbreak and hope in this novel and I was left reflecting upon how two small numerical lies can be the undoing of a future.
Highly recommended for fans of Keogh and new readers alike. When I see her name on a book I automatically think it is going to be good and The Little Lies supports this theory!
The characters are really well depicted and I loved the premise of the novel which surrounds the question of love, sexual love, consent and age.
Jodie is our narrator, working in a local care home as a registered nurse. The opening inspires curiosity and instant desire to find out more. I love Valerie Keogh's style of writing and in this offering she swiftly delivers a plot full of intrigue and evil lurking, which sets the reader on edge as suspicion reaches out and touches almost every character. Some touches might be fleeting whilst others are so firm there is no way Suspicion's fingers are going to let go.
Someone is planning a meticulous campaign against Jodie, to discredit her and ruin her life. It is subtle to begin with, increasing in intensity and becoming overtly sinister. Who is responsible?
There is a very dark presence in the background of Jodie's life. A man from long ago who was much older than her and caused her trauma that has had life long consequences and is a mother's worst nightmare for her daughter. This evil personnified is Victor Hill, released from prison and following Jodie. The thing is, sometimes danger comes in many forms and from many sources, and the most obvious danger can be the one we don't see coming. Jodie's new beau Flynn Douglas and her best mate both come under the scrutiny of Trust. Will either be found wanting?
There is heartbreak and hope in this novel and I was left reflecting upon how two small numerical lies can be the undoing of a future.
Highly recommended for fans of Keogh and new readers alike. When I see her name on a book I automatically think it is going to be good and The Little Lies supports this theory!
February 4, 2021
The Little Lies is a well crafted thriller. Sometimes it's not always about being creative with the truth, but also about the things we knowingly omit from conversations. And this is what we get here.
Jodie has a secret. Something that happened to her when she was young. She meets the wonderful Flynn, a man who seems too perfect. And that's when things go downhill. Small lies have a habit of turning into big lies, and big lies can be deadly!
Those familiar with Valerie's books will not be disappointed. It's another great book.
She's done it again, and that's no lie!
Jodie has a secret. Something that happened to her when she was young. She meets the wonderful Flynn, a man who seems too perfect. And that's when things go downhill. Small lies have a habit of turning into big lies, and big lies can be deadly!
Those familiar with Valerie's books will not be disappointed. It's another great book.
She's done it again, and that's no lie!
March 16, 2021
Gross
I wish I had never read this book. There is nothing suspenseful or thrilling. Honestly it grossed me out at the end and I am mad that I had to read it.
I wish I had never read this book. There is nothing suspenseful or thrilling. Honestly it grossed me out at the end and I am mad that I had to read it.
October 8, 2022
Fine for the first 70% I'd say and then boom... incest. It's a no from me
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2021
Gravesend, and Jodie Armstrong was waiting for Flynn Douglas and Baby Ben, she loved him with every breathe, that's Amore that's Love, who she sacrificed so much for as we travel back to the first time they met, the age difference now didn't matter to either of them, a nurse and a sales rep, so compatible begin dating and she found him captivating. Victor Hill is watching them Jodie won't recognise him he has been following her since his release from prison and danger lies ahead as things start to happen to Jodie her job is in jeopardy and is under investigation and things start to arrive in the post. this book is so creepy you keep wondering what's in store next it will leave you emotional and all the massive twists that unfold will make you shiver. This is such a different style of writing from this author and readers will enjoy this, I just could not put it down. Love, it was a powerful motive for murder and she kills to protect her loved ones. What a truly remarkable story right till the end, that I highly recommend, it's one of the best yet from this author that I have ever read
January 14, 2021
What a fantastic book this is, great characters and the story line was just brilliant it kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
I can 100% recommend this book, you will not be disappointed.
I can 100% recommend this book, you will not be disappointed.
January 14, 2021
Jodie seems to have met the perfect man, Flynn. She's working in a care home as a nurse. One day she comes home to a small box containing tiny babies shoes that take her back to when she was 14 years old and the son she had to give up after she was raped by Victor.
The story starts to unravel, and little clues are dropped along the way, about Jodies past, and Flynns. As secrets are revealed you wonder if that's it, or if there is more to come.
There is more to come, and there are so many shocking revelations at the end.
The story was so compelling that I couldn't stop reading. I think this is one of my favourite books of Valerie's.
The story starts to unravel, and little clues are dropped along the way, about Jodies past, and Flynns. As secrets are revealed you wonder if that's it, or if there is more to come.
There is more to come, and there are so many shocking revelations at the end.
The story was so compelling that I couldn't stop reading. I think this is one of my favourite books of Valerie's.
January 10, 2021
I have just finished this beautifully written book by Valerie Keogh and she definitely doesn't disappoint. It was brilliant, full of twists and turns and had me totally engrossed from the beginning.
A fantastic read, highly recommended and definitely worthy of ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐.
Many thanks to Valerie for the opportunity to read this ARC for an honest review.
A fantastic read, highly recommended and definitely worthy of ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐.
Many thanks to Valerie for the opportunity to read this ARC for an honest review.
December 1, 2022
Not a fan of the plot or writing style
I always struggle with leaving less than glowing reviews as I know the writer has worked very hard on the book. But, I also want friends and family who follow my readings to know my thoughts as well.
With this book, I really struggled to get past the writing style. The author often combines two or three sentences into one. An example is “You look like you’ve had a bad morning, take a seat, I’ll see if I can find her for you.” The run-on sentences and overall stilted writing style were very hard for me to read and in many cases I ended up simply skimming pages.
As far as the plot twist, sadly I guessed it very early on in the book but hoped I was wrong. I wasn’t, and although I know the final resolution was fine for some, it really didn’t ring true as being realistic to me.
Overall this just isn’t a read I can recommend.
I always struggle with leaving less than glowing reviews as I know the writer has worked very hard on the book. But, I also want friends and family who follow my readings to know my thoughts as well.
With this book, I really struggled to get past the writing style. The author often combines two or three sentences into one. An example is “You look like you’ve had a bad morning, take a seat, I’ll see if I can find her for you.” The run-on sentences and overall stilted writing style were very hard for me to read and in many cases I ended up simply skimming pages.
As far as the plot twist, sadly I guessed it very early on in the book but hoped I was wrong. I wasn’t, and although I know the final resolution was fine for some, it really didn’t ring true as being realistic to me.
Overall this just isn’t a read I can recommend.
February 6, 2025
------------- rating: {★☆☆☆☆} 1/5 stars
this was so fucked up. like, what did i read?
i miss my life before reading this book
this was so fucked up. like, what did i read?
i miss my life before reading this book
February 21, 2021
The ending is very far fetched
February 27, 2022
Creepy lies
This book held my attention and the plot was full of surprises. However, it was also creepy and not in a good way. It left me wanting a shower.
This book held my attention and the plot was full of surprises. However, it was also creepy and not in a good way. It left me wanting a shower.
September 7, 2025
This book started really well, it was quite fast paced and kept me wondering where it was going to go and what would happen. Where it did go was a huge shock and made me feel quite uncomfortable.
February 15, 2021
3🌟🌟🌟 for finishing not content!
Figured out by page 76 or so! SPOILER ALERT
While the thought of someone mistakingly having sexual relations with their own child is enough to horrify, it was a definite twist and most likely when most people would stop reading. The author followed it with the main character becoming impregnated (by missing one BC pill) plausible, though highly unlikely.
I continued reading to see where it all would go....... The mother then gave birth to both a second son/grandson and her child’s father ended up claiming the boy as his own, married a woman and they all live happily ever.
I’d give it a pass..if you’ve got a light stomach ..better yet find something else.
Figured out by page 76 or so! SPOILER ALERT
While the thought of someone mistakingly having sexual relations with their own child is enough to horrify, it was a definite twist and most likely when most people would stop reading. The author followed it with the main character becoming impregnated (by missing one BC pill) plausible, though highly unlikely.
I continued reading to see where it all would go....... The mother then gave birth to both a second son/grandson and her child’s father ended up claiming the boy as his own, married a woman and they all live happily ever.
I’d give it a pass..if you’ve got a light stomach ..better yet find something else.
February 5, 2021
Although I guessed where this book was going less than half way through, I really enjoyed it and finished it on one sitting. Loved it
February 21, 2021
Wow! I had a hard time putting this book down with all of the moving pieces happening and I really wanted to know what the end result was going to be. I had guessed part of the twist part way through the book but there were enough other "loose ends" to be tied up that I was not disappointed. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book thanks to the publisher and author.
April 25, 2021
Hmmm 🤔 interesting ending. I’m not really sure what I think about this one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews