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The Lies I Tell
Meg Varnum. Maggie Littleton. Meg Upton. Different names for the same person, depending on the town, depending on the job. I'm not a con artist as much as an avenger. A righter of wrongs. But nothing about me is real, other than my desire to hold men like you accountable for the things you've done.
I don't break any laws, and what I take is given willingly. I can't be blamed for how easy it is to manipulate you. It's a discipline involving confidence, cleverness, and deception. And now, I'm about to work my final trick . . . this time under my real name. Because when it's done, I want you to know who I am and remember what you did to me.
Combining blistering pace with brilliant female characters, this is the unforgettable new thriller from the author of the international bestseller and number one ebook bestseller The Flight, called 'absolutely sensational!' by Jo Spain.
I don't break any laws, and what I take is given willingly. I can't be blamed for how easy it is to manipulate you. It's a discipline involving confidence, cleverness, and deception. And now, I'm about to work my final trick . . . this time under my real name. Because when it's done, I want you to know who I am and remember what you did to me.
Combining blistering pace with brilliant female characters, this is the unforgettable new thriller from the author of the international bestseller and number one ebook bestseller The Flight, called 'absolutely sensational!' by Jo Spain.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 21, 2022
5255 people are currently reading
114448 people want to read
About the author
Julie Clark
9 books5,538 followersJulie Clark is the New York Times bestselling author of The Ones We Choose and The Last Flight, which was also a #1 international bestseller and has been translated into more than twenty languages. She lives in Los Angeles with her family and a golden doodle with poor impulse control.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 9,331 reviews
September 27, 2023
I loved Last Flight! I wasn’t expecting that dear Julie Clark may write something even better! But she did! She literally rocked my world! Just like Last Flight, she focused on two different women character: one of them is a notorious con woman Meg who ruined reporter, non-published struggling author Kat’s entire world 10 years ago!
I never thought I could love an anti-heroine so much but Meg deserved each praise I may give! She was fighter, survivor, smart, patient, cunning, loyal to girl code, easy to resonate!
Interestingly I loved her more than Kat who is also suffering from big traumatic experience which affected to her relationships, career, life choices.
Meg: with different names and occupations returns back to LA after 10 years she’s been awol for a long time. People thought she left her predator older boyfriend who was taking advantage of under aged high school girls, laundering his money account as a vengeance plan. But Kat knows the real reason behind her abrupt leaving. Her imminent actions already changed Kat’s life. So she waited for her return for years and her patience is rewarded!
Meg returns as real estate agent, probably targeting very powerful politician and Kat is so determined to expose her secrets! Best way to accomplish this mission is keeping her enemy closer, befriending her, working as an assistant of her real estate company.
But what if the monster she thinks is just a survivor, giving the justice by punishing real villains who hurt lots of people! What if Meg is not the bad guy of this scenario?
I couldn’t put this book down. My eyes hurt. My stomach grumbles after seven hours nonstop wild ride ( don’t ask me how to handle my bladder issues) I loved it, loved it and lovveeeeed it!
The smart cameo of Last Flight’s characters at the chapter takes place at airport made me smile a lot!
This is already one of my favorite ( probably it guaranteed its place at my top 5) thrillers of 2022! I highly truly recommend it!
So many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
I never thought I could love an anti-heroine so much but Meg deserved each praise I may give! She was fighter, survivor, smart, patient, cunning, loyal to girl code, easy to resonate!
Interestingly I loved her more than Kat who is also suffering from big traumatic experience which affected to her relationships, career, life choices.
Meg: with different names and occupations returns back to LA after 10 years she’s been awol for a long time. People thought she left her predator older boyfriend who was taking advantage of under aged high school girls, laundering his money account as a vengeance plan. But Kat knows the real reason behind her abrupt leaving. Her imminent actions already changed Kat’s life. So she waited for her return for years and her patience is rewarded!
Meg returns as real estate agent, probably targeting very powerful politician and Kat is so determined to expose her secrets! Best way to accomplish this mission is keeping her enemy closer, befriending her, working as an assistant of her real estate company.
But what if the monster she thinks is just a survivor, giving the justice by punishing real villains who hurt lots of people! What if Meg is not the bad guy of this scenario?
I couldn’t put this book down. My eyes hurt. My stomach grumbles after seven hours nonstop wild ride ( don’t ask me how to handle my bladder issues) I loved it, loved it and lovveeeeed it!
The smart cameo of Last Flight’s characters at the chapter takes place at airport made me smile a lot!
This is already one of my favorite ( probably it guaranteed its place at my top 5) thrillers of 2022! I highly truly recommend it!
So many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
Read
August 1, 2022Meg is a con artist, becoming whoever you need her to be and conning you long before you know what has happened. Kat has waited years to expose the woman who upended her life. But when Meg returns, and the two become closer, Kat’s assumptions start to fall apart. Exploring the difference between revenge and justice from different viewpoints, this is an unputdownable read.
December 2, 2024
The Lies I Tell by Julie Clark
Kat Roberts thinks that Meg Williams has ruined her life and she is going to get her revenge. It may have taken her ten years but her time has come. She is bringing Meg down!
Meg lies like she breaths and Kat has to be very careful. In fact, I consider Kat too naïve for her ambitions and she pays for her naivety in a lot of ways. And now that Kat has gotten to know Meg, maybe she is wrong about her, not about what she has done but why she does it.
This story flew by and is very easy to read. For a book about secrets, both Meg and Kat seem like an open book to me. In some ways, that makes the story more fun, because we get to watch Meg work her magic. Kat will need to up her game to keep up. Who is really the cat and who is the mouse?
Pub June 21st 2022
Thank you to SOURCEBOOKS Landmark and NetGalley for this ARC.
Kat Roberts thinks that Meg Williams has ruined her life and she is going to get her revenge. It may have taken her ten years but her time has come. She is bringing Meg down!
Meg lies like she breaths and Kat has to be very careful. In fact, I consider Kat too naïve for her ambitions and she pays for her naivety in a lot of ways. And now that Kat has gotten to know Meg, maybe she is wrong about her, not about what she has done but why she does it.
This story flew by and is very easy to read. For a book about secrets, both Meg and Kat seem like an open book to me. In some ways, that makes the story more fun, because we get to watch Meg work her magic. Kat will need to up her game to keep up. Who is really the cat and who is the mouse?
Pub June 21st 2022
Thank you to SOURCEBOOKS Landmark and NetGalley for this ARC.
September 6, 2022
4.0 stars — Let me start this review by saying I like women. I work with mostly women. A lot of my friends are women. Heck, I am even married to a woman. So after reading “The Lies I Tell” by the very talented Julie Clark and a couple of books by Lisa Jewell among others, I ask “Why are all the men in your books either irredeemable dolts or they are evil incarnate?” So let’s review every major male character in “Lies” (1) a rapist, (2) a teacher/child molester, (3) a somewhat corrupt police detective with a gambling addiction and a lying problem, (4) a sleazy politician and swindler who steals houses from the elderly and (5) a lying, greedy man hiding all his money and assets from his soon to be ex-wife and kids. Couldn’t there be some nice guy helping the homeless or the environment or even fixing coffee somewhere in the mix? Uh. No. I just can’t imagine myself writing a book where all women are evil or corrupt. But, I digress. This modern-day Robin Hood for women is a very enjoyable story in which the protagonist,Meg, is a swindler who does her part to right wrongs perpetrated by sleezeballs throughout the country. When Meg realizes she has been ‘discovered’ by a peripheral victim from one of her past scams and now a reporter, an entertaining game of cat and mouse ensues. The book is very entertaining even if it felt to me that some of the plans were not good enough to avoid detection before their completion. I will definitely read Ms. Clark again, as she is a very gifted writer. But, if she can at least include some minor, nice male character (how about a postman who pulls quarters out from behind a child’s ear) it would make her male readers feel a little more loved …. Is that so wrong? 😂😂
January 21, 2022
Meg Williams has gone by many names and has had many different lives. She’s a con artist, and through precise planning, she can be whomever she needs to be to get the job done.
Kat Roberts is a journalist who has been hunting Meg for the past 10 years. Now that she has her in her sights, she won’t let her disappear until she gets what she wants from her…
…Revenge.
However, nothing is truly as it seems, which both women quickly find out.
This was one of my most anticipated reads of 2022, after loving Julie Clark’s debut, The Last Flight. I’m thrilled to say it did not disappoint.
This thriller is unputdownable. The characters are complex, and everything about the plot is intriguing…and continued to intrigue me the further I got.
Those looking for major twists won’t find that here. What you see is pretty much what you get. However, that doesn’t mean there are zero surprises in store. My thoughts on the characters evolved, and the writing is absolutely phenomenal - swift, fast-paced, and brilliant.
I highly recommend, and look forward to Clark’s next phenomenal book…which I hope she’s writing now.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Expected Publication Date: 6/21/22.
Review also posted at: https://bonkersforthebooks.wordpress.com
Kat Roberts is a journalist who has been hunting Meg for the past 10 years. Now that she has her in her sights, she won’t let her disappear until she gets what she wants from her…
…Revenge.
However, nothing is truly as it seems, which both women quickly find out.
This was one of my most anticipated reads of 2022, after loving Julie Clark’s debut, The Last Flight. I’m thrilled to say it did not disappoint.
This thriller is unputdownable. The characters are complex, and everything about the plot is intriguing…and continued to intrigue me the further I got.
Those looking for major twists won’t find that here. What you see is pretty much what you get. However, that doesn’t mean there are zero surprises in store. My thoughts on the characters evolved, and the writing is absolutely phenomenal - swift, fast-paced, and brilliant.
I highly recommend, and look forward to Clark’s next phenomenal book…which I hope she’s writing now.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Expected Publication Date: 6/21/22.
Review also posted at: https://bonkersforthebooks.wordpress.com
July 6, 2022
Devious
"All I had to do was tell a man what he wanted to hear."
The Lies I Tell is a compulsively readable thriller about a con artist and the reporter trying to expose her. When the two women finally meet, an unexpected outcome unfolds.
Meg is a con artist with a code. Kat is a reporter determined to bring Meg down. Both are out for revenge. Who will win in the end?
The chapters alternate between Meg and Kat’s perspectives. Both are equally compelling, but I enjoyed Meg’s chapters more. Kat was a little boring at first, but she grew on me. Even though Meg cons people, she chooses her marks based on a moral code--it is hard not to root for her even though she is blatantly conning people. She’s clever, and I had fun watching her play those who deserved to be played.
This was so much fun to read. However, I finished this last week, and I barely remember the plot, which is not a good sign. The good news is that the characters were memorable.
I loved The Last Flight, and I had high expectations for this book. My expectations were met! The plot is a little predictable, but Meg made a mark. Overall, this is a juicy read with memorable characters and a fun, if forgettable, plot.
"All I had to do was tell a man what he wanted to hear."
The Lies I Tell is a compulsively readable thriller about a con artist and the reporter trying to expose her. When the two women finally meet, an unexpected outcome unfolds.
Meg is a con artist with a code. Kat is a reporter determined to bring Meg down. Both are out for revenge. Who will win in the end?
The chapters alternate between Meg and Kat’s perspectives. Both are equally compelling, but I enjoyed Meg’s chapters more. Kat was a little boring at first, but she grew on me. Even though Meg cons people, she chooses her marks based on a moral code--it is hard not to root for her even though she is blatantly conning people. She’s clever, and I had fun watching her play those who deserved to be played.
This was so much fun to read. However, I finished this last week, and I barely remember the plot, which is not a good sign. The good news is that the characters were memorable.
I loved The Last Flight, and I had high expectations for this book. My expectations were met! The plot is a little predictable, but Meg made a mark. Overall, this is a juicy read with memorable characters and a fun, if forgettable, plot.
June 30, 2022
***HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY***
TWO WOMEN, OUT FOR REVENGE!!
Once again Julia Clark centers her very character driven novel around two women.
Meg had a wonderful life when she was young, living in her grandparents' beautiful home. That is until her mother fell for a con-artist. She lost everything and Meg and her mother were forced to live in their car. This was a trauma she will never forget.
Now Meg has returned to LA after a 10 year absence, looking for revenge for what happened a decade ago. She has spent the last ten years getting better and better at reinventing herself. She has gone by many names and has left more than a few men wondering why and how this woman has upended their lives. Sometimes Meg has cost them their fortunes, sometimes exposed their lies.
SO MANY LIES!!!
Ten years ago Kat was a young journalist working on a big story when Meg called in a tip, the name of a man who might help with the story. What occurred after that tip has left Kat a weaker person, a woman afraid of men and all of their lies. Ten years later she is still a copy editor and she holds Meg responsible.
Now that Meg is back in town, she has plans to expose her for the con artist she is.
SO MANY LIES!!!
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS BOOK:
This is a very quickly paced domestic thriller and the story flowed well from past to present.
The characters were well described with all of their faults and strengths. They were relatable.
With each chapter we find out more and more about Meg, what she is really after and why she came back.
My favorite quote that Meg’s mother taught her “TWO WOMEN WORKING TOGETHER ARE A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH”. Kudos to strong female protagonists!!
This is my second book by Ms. Clark and I have highly enjoyed both of them. I can recommend this one to anyone who enjoys a fast paced, cat and mouse thriller.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to read and review this title
TWO WOMEN, OUT FOR REVENGE!!
Once again Julia Clark centers her very character driven novel around two women.
Meg had a wonderful life when she was young, living in her grandparents' beautiful home. That is until her mother fell for a con-artist. She lost everything and Meg and her mother were forced to live in their car. This was a trauma she will never forget.
Now Meg has returned to LA after a 10 year absence, looking for revenge for what happened a decade ago. She has spent the last ten years getting better and better at reinventing herself. She has gone by many names and has left more than a few men wondering why and how this woman has upended their lives. Sometimes Meg has cost them their fortunes, sometimes exposed their lies.
SO MANY LIES!!!
Ten years ago Kat was a young journalist working on a big story when Meg called in a tip, the name of a man who might help with the story. What occurred after that tip has left Kat a weaker person, a woman afraid of men and all of their lies. Ten years later she is still a copy editor and she holds Meg responsible.
Now that Meg is back in town, she has plans to expose her for the con artist she is.
SO MANY LIES!!!
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS BOOK:
This is a very quickly paced domestic thriller and the story flowed well from past to present.
The characters were well described with all of their faults and strengths. They were relatable.
With each chapter we find out more and more about Meg, what she is really after and why she came back.
My favorite quote that Meg’s mother taught her “TWO WOMEN WORKING TOGETHER ARE A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH”. Kudos to strong female protagonists!!
This is my second book by Ms. Clark and I have highly enjoyed both of them. I can recommend this one to anyone who enjoys a fast paced, cat and mouse thriller.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to read and review this title
July 14, 2022
”The difference between justice and revenge comes down to who’s telling the story.”
Meg, a con woman, travels the country under assumed names, perfecting her craft for years in preparation for the biggest con of all: going after the man who ruined her life.
Kat, an investigative reporter, considers herself a victim of a con Meg pulled many years ago. She tracks her for years and when Meg suddenly appears back in town, ready to make a move on her prime target, Kat finally gets an opportunity to infiltrate her life and bring her down.
What follows is a cat and mouse game where neither knows how much the other knows. Both characters are equally fascinating, and my opinion of them changes and develops as the story toggles between the past and the present, giving the reader insight into their motivations.
There are no crazy twists, but a very clever surprise is in store. It was refreshing to read a thriller about strong, smart women who are not fueled by alcohol and stupidity.
This was a clever, well-written plot that moved along briskly, and the author’s research into con women lent the story authenticity.
My only complaint is that I'm tired of books where all the men are evil and take advantage of women. I’d like to see more balance and nuance in the male characters. Still, this is one of the better thrillers I’ve read recently and I highly recommend it.
This was a buddy read with my friend Marialyce. Do check out her review and see what she thought!
Meg, a con woman, travels the country under assumed names, perfecting her craft for years in preparation for the biggest con of all: going after the man who ruined her life.
Kat, an investigative reporter, considers herself a victim of a con Meg pulled many years ago. She tracks her for years and when Meg suddenly appears back in town, ready to make a move on her prime target, Kat finally gets an opportunity to infiltrate her life and bring her down.
What follows is a cat and mouse game where neither knows how much the other knows. Both characters are equally fascinating, and my opinion of them changes and develops as the story toggles between the past and the present, giving the reader insight into their motivations.
There are no crazy twists, but a very clever surprise is in store. It was refreshing to read a thriller about strong, smart women who are not fueled by alcohol and stupidity.
This was a clever, well-written plot that moved along briskly, and the author’s research into con women lent the story authenticity.
My only complaint is that I'm tired of books where all the men are evil and take advantage of women. I’d like to see more balance and nuance in the male characters. Still, this is one of the better thrillers I’ve read recently and I highly recommend it.
This was a buddy read with my friend Marialyce. Do check out her review and see what she thought!
July 10, 2022
3.75 Stars
Meg gets all the stars for me here. I really enjoyed her character, backstory, and aura. Kat, on the other hand...annoyed me with how clueless she was for most of the book; however, I really appreciated the way the story ended for her and the "growth" she showed.
But I'm getting ahead of myself.
This was my first book by Julie Clark (despite having had The Last Flight on my physical tbr for quite some time) and I really like her writing style. I thought she did a great job of slowly unfurling the past and intertwining it with the present. She also did a great job at showing and not telling.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and appreciated the whole "girl code" aspect that kind of hung over everything. I also really like the way this ended.
Meg gets all the stars for me here. I really enjoyed her character, backstory, and aura. Kat, on the other hand...annoyed me with how clueless she was for most of the book; however, I really appreciated the way the story ended for her and the "growth" she showed.
But I'm getting ahead of myself.
This was my first book by Julie Clark (despite having had The Last Flight on my physical tbr for quite some time) and I really like her writing style. I thought she did a great job of slowly unfurling the past and intertwining it with the present. She also did a great job at showing and not telling.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and appreciated the whole "girl code" aspect that kind of hung over everything. I also really like the way this ended.
February 6, 2022
A wickedly sinister thriller guaranteed to keep you on your toes throughout.
Meg had a rather difficult childhood. Losing her mother at a young age, forced to live out of her car for years after her home was taken from her. Enough is enough… Meg has a plan for revenge.
Kat has been a struggling newspaper reporter for years. She lost her biggest scoop that would have put her on the fast-track. (The big tip having been provided by Meg.) Kat has never truly recovered from the loss. Or forgotten.
When their paths cross 10 years later Kat knows this is the break she’s been hoping for. An exclusive tell all that will expose Meg for who she really is. And the opportunity to redeem herself.
I felt like I was in a tennis match as my loyalties and sympathies lobbed back and forth between both characters. Who comes out on top in the end? And at what price?
My second read by this author and must say as much as I enjoyed it, I felt her previous book, The Last Flight was just a smidge better. I can’t wait to see what she conjures up next!
A buddy read with Susanne that we both really enjoyed!
Posted to: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark
Meg had a rather difficult childhood. Losing her mother at a young age, forced to live out of her car for years after her home was taken from her. Enough is enough… Meg has a plan for revenge.
Kat has been a struggling newspaper reporter for years. She lost her biggest scoop that would have put her on the fast-track. (The big tip having been provided by Meg.) Kat has never truly recovered from the loss. Or forgotten.
When their paths cross 10 years later Kat knows this is the break she’s been hoping for. An exclusive tell all that will expose Meg for who she really is. And the opportunity to redeem herself.
I felt like I was in a tennis match as my loyalties and sympathies lobbed back and forth between both characters. Who comes out on top in the end? And at what price?
My second read by this author and must say as much as I enjoyed it, I felt her previous book, The Last Flight was just a smidge better. I can’t wait to see what she conjures up next!
A buddy read with Susanne that we both really enjoyed!
Posted to: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark
July 14, 2022
Unpopular Opinion
Not a fan of Meg or Kat. I couldn't relate to them and didn't find either very likeable.
Meg is a conniver and Kat has wanted to expose her for 10 years.
Well, guess what? Meg is back in town. This time as a real estate agent in L.A. and the game is on once again.
Neither of them are outstanding women. Revenge isn't justice, it is actually a poison pill. I was exhausted by the back and forth chapters of these two.
Besides the POV's , the backstory, the real-estate talk, and wordy descriptions made it a slower burn which affected the pace for me. I like a good revenge story, but not the message of all men bad, this was annoying.... Sigh.
Most reviewers loved it, so don't mind me.
Nothing sparkled, meh.
Not a fan of Meg or Kat. I couldn't relate to them and didn't find either very likeable.
Meg is a conniver and Kat has wanted to expose her for 10 years.
Well, guess what? Meg is back in town. This time as a real estate agent in L.A. and the game is on once again.
Neither of them are outstanding women. Revenge isn't justice, it is actually a poison pill. I was exhausted by the back and forth chapters of these two.
Besides the POV's , the backstory, the real-estate talk, and wordy descriptions made it a slower burn which affected the pace for me. I like a good revenge story, but not the message of all men bad, this was annoying.... Sigh.
Most reviewers loved it, so don't mind me.
Nothing sparkled, meh.
June 21, 2022
Happy publishing day! This one is now out!
Wow!! 5 fabulous stars!! I haven’t read Julie’s last book, The Last Flight, yet but I have seen rave reviews for it so when I saw this new one, I knew I wanted to read it. I am so glad I did because I was hooked from the beginning. I became engrossed in the story, and it was hard to put down until I finished it. The 2 main female characters in this book, Meg & Kat, are top notch, complex characters and very well developed throughout the book. The friendship that develops between them felt natural and real. The storyline was original and interesting! This was a face paced book and just overall, an amazing read!! Highly recommend!!
Thank you Net Galley and Sourcebooks Landmark for an ARC in return for my honest review.
Wow!! 5 fabulous stars!! I haven’t read Julie’s last book, The Last Flight, yet but I have seen rave reviews for it so when I saw this new one, I knew I wanted to read it. I am so glad I did because I was hooked from the beginning. I became engrossed in the story, and it was hard to put down until I finished it. The 2 main female characters in this book, Meg & Kat, are top notch, complex characters and very well developed throughout the book. The friendship that develops between them felt natural and real. The storyline was original and interesting! This was a face paced book and just overall, an amazing read!! Highly recommend!!
Thank you Net Galley and Sourcebooks Landmark for an ARC in return for my honest review.
April 24, 2022
I have a thing about con artists. I’m always curious about what makes them tick and how they infiltrate the lives of the people they con. So, this story called out to me.
Meg Williams has a beguiling back story - a young high school girl loses her mother after her mother fell victim to a con. She’s reduced to living in her car and vows vengeance on the man who stole the family home from her mother. But in the process, she becomes a con artist herself. But one with a moral code, a “girl code” she picked up from a high school friend. And then there’s Kat Roberts, a reporter whose life was upended by Meg ten years ago.
The story alternates between the two women, going back and forth in time. It takes a while to set up the premise, but I soon got caught up in the story. There were some interesting twists, especially with Kat’s storyline. Once the two women intersect, the suspense ratchets up and there’s a lovely tension to the story. “I’m stuck with the irony of two women, each of them trying to spin a web of lies and manipulation around the other, never knowing whose strings are wrapped around whom.” Both characters are richly drawn and equally engaging. Both are also surprisingly relatable. The story flows well and it was easy to see the scenes unfold in my mind. This would make a great miniseries. And I’m betting it’s going to be one of the favorite summer reads.
I didn’t read Clark’s first book, but I’ll soon remedy that.
My thanks to Netgalley and Sourcebooks for an advance copy of this book.
Meg Williams has a beguiling back story - a young high school girl loses her mother after her mother fell victim to a con. She’s reduced to living in her car and vows vengeance on the man who stole the family home from her mother. But in the process, she becomes a con artist herself. But one with a moral code, a “girl code” she picked up from a high school friend. And then there’s Kat Roberts, a reporter whose life was upended by Meg ten years ago.
The story alternates between the two women, going back and forth in time. It takes a while to set up the premise, but I soon got caught up in the story. There were some interesting twists, especially with Kat’s storyline. Once the two women intersect, the suspense ratchets up and there’s a lovely tension to the story. “I’m stuck with the irony of two women, each of them trying to spin a web of lies and manipulation around the other, never knowing whose strings are wrapped around whom.” Both characters are richly drawn and equally engaging. Both are also surprisingly relatable. The story flows well and it was easy to see the scenes unfold in my mind. This would make a great miniseries. And I’m betting it’s going to be one of the favorite summer reads.
I didn’t read Clark’s first book, but I’ll soon remedy that.
My thanks to Netgalley and Sourcebooks for an advance copy of this book.
February 3, 2022
After The Last Flight by Julie Clark, I highly anticipated her next book to be brilliant and it is!! This twisted domestic thriller is based on manipulation, lies and justice, but who is fooling who? With two women at the rein, it's an allusion in order to gain more control.
Meg and Kat have both been hurt. Meg's story begins with her mother before her death loses their home to a con artist boyfriend, who is now seeking an elective position. Meg has moved to different locations, with different names and jobs using each stop as a catalysts to earn money and come back to take what is hers. She is like a chameleon lurking in corners to see where she can slither into their lives. You can call her a con artist.
Kat is a journalist seeking justice. She believes Meg had a part in ruining her life years ago and plans to expose her. Both women are able to infiltrate lives, act as a confident friend and trick others for their own advantage. Their friendship unexpectedly takes a turn and can see through their lies, but not before a fun filled adventure to see who will gain the most momentum in each chapter. Hang on because it is going to get wild!!
Thank you NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Landmark for this title in exchange for my honest review.
Meg and Kat have both been hurt. Meg's story begins with her mother before her death loses their home to a con artist boyfriend, who is now seeking an elective position. Meg has moved to different locations, with different names and jobs using each stop as a catalysts to earn money and come back to take what is hers. She is like a chameleon lurking in corners to see where she can slither into their lives. You can call her a con artist.
Kat is a journalist seeking justice. She believes Meg had a part in ruining her life years ago and plans to expose her. Both women are able to infiltrate lives, act as a confident friend and trick others for their own advantage. Their friendship unexpectedly takes a turn and can see through their lies, but not before a fun filled adventure to see who will gain the most momentum in each chapter. Hang on because it is going to get wild!!
Thank you NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Landmark for this title in exchange for my honest review.
June 24, 2022
Team Meg!
Meg Williams, Maggie Littleton, Melody Wilde-a con artist who takes on a different name and occupation in each city-but one who follows a “girl code” and only targets men who have taken something from women-
Something they didn’t deserve to have!
Kat Roberts, a journalist who followed a lead that Meg gave her 10 years ago-one that changed her life, but NOT in the way she had hoped it would! I did not dislike Kat but she was mistakenly blaming Meg, for what happened and now she is hoping to be the one to expose her for what she is…
CHECK! ♟
Meg isn’t a killer like Scarlett Clark (They Never Learn by Layne Fargo) or Jane Doe (Jane Doe by Victoria Helen Stone).
She only needs her brains to “right the wrongs” and she is “oh so clever”!
BUT- Has she met her match in Kat?
CHECKMATE! ♟♟
I love watching characters outwit their opponents, so I was completely entertained from page one!
GAME ON!!
I hope that Julie Clark is hard at work on her next novel as I can’t wait to read whatever she writes next!
After all, it says a lot about a writer that can have you rooting for a Con Artist! 😉
She is two for two for me with back to back 5 ⭐️ thrillers!
Thank You to my local Public Library for the loan!
Meg Williams, Maggie Littleton, Melody Wilde-a con artist who takes on a different name and occupation in each city-but one who follows a “girl code” and only targets men who have taken something from women-
Something they didn’t deserve to have!
Kat Roberts, a journalist who followed a lead that Meg gave her 10 years ago-one that changed her life, but NOT in the way she had hoped it would! I did not dislike Kat but she was mistakenly blaming Meg, for what happened and now she is hoping to be the one to expose her for what she is…
CHECK! ♟
Meg isn’t a killer like Scarlett Clark (They Never Learn by Layne Fargo) or Jane Doe (Jane Doe by Victoria Helen Stone).
She only needs her brains to “right the wrongs” and she is “oh so clever”!
BUT- Has she met her match in Kat?
CHECKMATE! ♟♟
I love watching characters outwit their opponents, so I was completely entertained from page one!
GAME ON!!
I hope that Julie Clark is hard at work on her next novel as I can’t wait to read whatever she writes next!
After all, it says a lot about a writer that can have you rooting for a Con Artist! 😉
She is two for two for me with back to back 5 ⭐️ thrillers!
Thank You to my local Public Library for the loan!
June 21, 2022
How do you con a con artist?
“The lies I tell serve a purpose, tipping karma in the right direction. Returning power to those who have lost it...The difference between justice and revenge comes down to who’s telling the story.” -Meg
Meg Williams is a con artist. You may have met Maggie Littleton or Meg Wilde, but she is one and the same.
Kat Roberts has waited ten years to expose Meg for what she has done to her and to so many others who have crossed her path.
Will she get justice? Or does she have it all wrong?
It took me three weeks to finish this book! I kept finding other things to do and other books to read instead of this one. Why?
It is NOT really a THRILLER or a MYSTERY. It’s a story about JUSTICE and REVENGE.
It is HEAVY on real estate lingo, transactions, and business.
It’s a VERY SLOW BURN.
There are NO TWISTS!
It is PREDICTABLE!
While I somewhat enjoyed the well-written story, I couldn’t wait to get to the end. It really dragged for me and effected my overall opinion. I am definitely in the minority on this one, so please check out other reviews as well.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the ARC of The Lies I Tell in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: 6/21/22
3.5/5 stars rounded down
“The lies I tell serve a purpose, tipping karma in the right direction. Returning power to those who have lost it...The difference between justice and revenge comes down to who’s telling the story.” -Meg
Meg Williams is a con artist. You may have met Maggie Littleton or Meg Wilde, but she is one and the same.
Kat Roberts has waited ten years to expose Meg for what she has done to her and to so many others who have crossed her path.
Will she get justice? Or does she have it all wrong?
It took me three weeks to finish this book! I kept finding other things to do and other books to read instead of this one. Why?
It is NOT really a THRILLER or a MYSTERY. It’s a story about JUSTICE and REVENGE.
It is HEAVY on real estate lingo, transactions, and business.
It’s a VERY SLOW BURN.
There are NO TWISTS!
It is PREDICTABLE!
While I somewhat enjoyed the well-written story, I couldn’t wait to get to the end. It really dragged for me and effected my overall opinion. I am definitely in the minority on this one, so please check out other reviews as well.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the ARC of The Lies I Tell in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: 6/21/22
3.5/5 stars rounded down
June 28, 2022
“The difference between justice and revenge comes down to who’s telling the story.”
Meg Williams is a con woman who has mastered her craft over the years - meticulous planning, in-depth research, and a whole lot of smarts result in the almost flawless execution of her plans, changing locations and identities as the situation demands. But there is more to her story and her motivations as is gradually revealed as the narrative progresses. Unbeknownst to Meg, she has been on someone’s radar for over ten years, ever since one of her cons inadvertently resulted in a young journalist’s life falling apart.
Kat Roberts has waited ten years to exact revenge on the woman whose actions wrecked her life years ago. She is out to con the con woman, expose her and write about all of it. A lot is going on with both of these characters. While Kat has her eyes set on revenge, Meg has returned to town with her own agenda that involves settling old scores. Kat, hiding her true identity, succeeds in befriending Meg and what follows is an intricate web of deception, revenge, unlikely friendships and some surprising revelations along the way. The first-person narrative is shared between Meg and Kat in alternating chapters. The story jumps back and forth between the past and present-day events, giving us a clear understanding of who these women are, the grudges they have nurtured and what motivates them to do what they do.
If you enjoy strong female protagonists, this story does not disappoint. I found Meg more interesting than Kat, though both of these women do hold their own. Consistently paced, with a good dose of suspense, tension and an intricately woven plot, The Lies I Tell by Julie Clark is a smartly crafted story that hooks you in from the first page and keeps you engaged till the very last sentence. This was my first Julie Clark novel and it won’t be my last!
Meg Williams is a con woman who has mastered her craft over the years - meticulous planning, in-depth research, and a whole lot of smarts result in the almost flawless execution of her plans, changing locations and identities as the situation demands. But there is more to her story and her motivations as is gradually revealed as the narrative progresses. Unbeknownst to Meg, she has been on someone’s radar for over ten years, ever since one of her cons inadvertently resulted in a young journalist’s life falling apart.
Kat Roberts has waited ten years to exact revenge on the woman whose actions wrecked her life years ago. She is out to con the con woman, expose her and write about all of it. A lot is going on with both of these characters. While Kat has her eyes set on revenge, Meg has returned to town with her own agenda that involves settling old scores. Kat, hiding her true identity, succeeds in befriending Meg and what follows is an intricate web of deception, revenge, unlikely friendships and some surprising revelations along the way. The first-person narrative is shared between Meg and Kat in alternating chapters. The story jumps back and forth between the past and present-day events, giving us a clear understanding of who these women are, the grudges they have nurtured and what motivates them to do what they do.
If you enjoy strong female protagonists, this story does not disappoint. I found Meg more interesting than Kat, though both of these women do hold their own. Consistently paced, with a good dose of suspense, tension and an intricately woven plot, The Lies I Tell by Julie Clark is a smartly crafted story that hooks you in from the first page and keeps you engaged till the very last sentence. This was my first Julie Clark novel and it won’t be my last!
March 4, 2025
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ 'The difference between justice and revenge comes down to who's telling the story...'
Told from two perspectives and flashing back and forth between the past and the present. Kat is a news reporter and Meg is whoever she decides to be.
Female con artist targeting corrupt men who abuse their power or what they have.
I think part of the problem was I really didn't have the time for it. Truthfully, I had to restart it several times on Friday because life was getting in the way of my reading again.
I did start right from the beginning yesterday though, and I'm still not sure how I feel. So, I've read two Julie Clark books so far and her timelines jump around a lot which is fine for me when I'm reading with my eyes, but listening on audio seems to be harder for me to keep up with what's going on.
I'm not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing lol. On one hand I feel like it's so intricately put together that following along on audio is harder for me, on the other hand, I don't feel like it should be.
So, in a nutshell, either the audio format isn't really working for me with this author or I'm just not fully vibing.
I do recommend, it's a fun and twisty plot that I think most will enjoy -
💜Bingable Writing
💜Dual POV
💜Two Women Out for Revenge
💜Fuck The Patriarchy Vibes
⋆✴︎˚｡⋆ Connect with me on Instagram ˗ˏˋ★‿︵‧ ˚ ₊⊹
Told from two perspectives and flashing back and forth between the past and the present. Kat is a news reporter and Meg is whoever she decides to be.
Female con artist targeting corrupt men who abuse their power or what they have.
I think part of the problem was I really didn't have the time for it. Truthfully, I had to restart it several times on Friday because life was getting in the way of my reading again.
I did start right from the beginning yesterday though, and I'm still not sure how I feel. So, I've read two Julie Clark books so far and her timelines jump around a lot which is fine for me when I'm reading with my eyes, but listening on audio seems to be harder for me to keep up with what's going on.
I'm not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing lol. On one hand I feel like it's so intricately put together that following along on audio is harder for me, on the other hand, I don't feel like it should be.
So, in a nutshell, either the audio format isn't really working for me with this author or I'm just not fully vibing.
I do recommend, it's a fun and twisty plot that I think most will enjoy -
💜Bingable Writing
💜Dual POV
💜Two Women Out for Revenge
💜Fuck The Patriarchy Vibes
⋆✴︎˚｡⋆ Connect with me on Instagram ˗ˏˋ★‿︵‧ ˚ ₊⊹
July 3, 2022
Wow!! 😳I can’t recommend getting your hands on this twisted thriller enough! I had pretty high expectations since I really enjoyed The Last Flight ✈️… but guys… this book knocked it out of the park! I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN!!! 🥳
So many people… so many cons… so much karma..😉 Is it possible to like a con artist? Apparently it is… because I was rooting for this one all the way!! Girl Code 👱♀️in full effect Meg!! Love it girl! 🙌
After 10 years of being on the run.. Meg is back.. and she wants to make him pay..the man who took her life away… the man who forever changed her path… the man that made her live in her car 🚗.. with her mom.. 😢… life has been tough for Meg… but Meg has things all figured out..🤫… watch out dudes… she is coming for you… and she means business..😉
That ending!!! 😳🤯🙌 Sooo good!! One of the best thrillers of the year in my opinion! 🥳 Clever… twisted.. short chapters… super fast read…. All a winning combination!! 🏃♀️ Get a copy!! Publication date was June 21st!! ❤️ I truly didn’t except to have @julieclarkauthor top The Last Flight ✈️.. but in my opinion.. she did! 🥳
❤️❤️ Have you read this yet?? Is this on your list?? Do you believe in karma?? I definitely do!!
Thank you partners- bibliolifestyle and Bookmarked for my gifted copy!
So many people… so many cons… so much karma..😉 Is it possible to like a con artist? Apparently it is… because I was rooting for this one all the way!! Girl Code 👱♀️in full effect Meg!! Love it girl! 🙌
After 10 years of being on the run.. Meg is back.. and she wants to make him pay..the man who took her life away… the man who forever changed her path… the man that made her live in her car 🚗.. with her mom.. 😢… life has been tough for Meg… but Meg has things all figured out..🤫… watch out dudes… she is coming for you… and she means business..😉
That ending!!! 😳🤯🙌 Sooo good!! One of the best thrillers of the year in my opinion! 🥳 Clever… twisted.. short chapters… super fast read…. All a winning combination!! 🏃♀️ Get a copy!! Publication date was June 21st!! ❤️ I truly didn’t except to have @julieclarkauthor top The Last Flight ✈️.. but in my opinion.. she did! 🥳
❤️❤️ Have you read this yet?? Is this on your list?? Do you believe in karma?? I definitely do!!
Thank you partners- bibliolifestyle and Bookmarked for my gifted copy!
June 23, 2022
3.5 stars, rounded up.
"The difference between justice and revenge comes down to who’s telling the story."
I really loved the previous book I read by Clark (The Last Flight), so I was very excited to read this one. I'm happy to say that it did deliver for me.
It's the story of two women: Kat, a journalist who has been searching for ten years for the woman she believes set her up for a terrible situation in order to expose her, and Meg, the con-artist who leaves ruined lives and empty bank accounts in her wake. But is everything as it appears on the surface? The more Kat investigates, the more she wonders if all of her beliefs about Meg are correct.
This is a slow burn of a story. Just as Meg takes time to craft her set-ups, the story gradually unfolds with information about both women in the past and the present. The author has a sneaky way of making the reader question presupposed beliefs about the characters' motivations. I had difficulty putting the book down because I wanted to know the end game, what was the ultimate goal here, and what were the reasons? I was very satisfied in the end with how things unfolded and were revealed.
If you're looking for a compulsively readable summer thriller, this one will definitely hit the spot.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
"The difference between justice and revenge comes down to who’s telling the story."
I really loved the previous book I read by Clark (The Last Flight), so I was very excited to read this one. I'm happy to say that it did deliver for me.
It's the story of two women: Kat, a journalist who has been searching for ten years for the woman she believes set her up for a terrible situation in order to expose her, and Meg, the con-artist who leaves ruined lives and empty bank accounts in her wake. But is everything as it appears on the surface? The more Kat investigates, the more she wonders if all of her beliefs about Meg are correct.
This is a slow burn of a story. Just as Meg takes time to craft her set-ups, the story gradually unfolds with information about both women in the past and the present. The author has a sneaky way of making the reader question presupposed beliefs about the characters' motivations. I had difficulty putting the book down because I wanted to know the end game, what was the ultimate goal here, and what were the reasons? I was very satisfied in the end with how things unfolded and were revealed.
If you're looking for a compulsively readable summer thriller, this one will definitely hit the spot.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
November 29, 2023
«If you're one of my targets, know that I've chosen you carefully.»
The plot is wonderfully done and is very satisfying due to all the events that occur. I think it's the dream, the desire, of many people: the so-called "karma", the 'everything comes back', the 'life is a boomerang'.
Has someone ever intentionally done something so horrible to you that it changed your life 180 degrees? Did you feel so much helplessness, so much anger, that you wished that all the harm this person caused you would come back to him/her in strength?
Well, this story is for you. And it's an opening to personal empowerment. Of course, the kind of empowerment that is narrated in these pages is not very legal, therefore would not be so advisable to carry it out. Although if you put it into practice... may Meg's spirit be with you! 😉
I don't give it a 5 ★ because it lacked a bit of a thriller for my taste, and can't say much more without explaining the reason for this and including a spoiler.
«Instinct is a funny thing, a whisper of trouble that we can never quite name, never quite define, that allows us to locate danger. Women are taught from a young age to ignore theirs. We're forced to justify our instincts with evidence, or we're taught to ignore them as a way to keep the peace, to prioritize other people's comfort over our own.»
///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
«Si sos uno de mis objetivos, sabé que te he elegido cuidadosamente.»
La trama está maravillosamente lograda y es muy satisfactoria por todos los hechos que ocurren. Creo que es el sueño, la ilusión, de muchas personas: el llamado “karma”, el ‘todo vuelve’, la vida es un boomerang.
¿Alguna vez alguien intencionalmente te hizo algo tan horrible que cambió el giro de tu vida 180 grados? ¿Sentiste tanta impotencia, tanta ira, que deseaste que todo el mal que te causó esta persona le vuelva potenciado?
Bueno, esta historia es para vos. Y es una apertura al empoderamiento personal. Eso si, la clase de empoderamiento que se relata en estas páginas no es muy legal que digamos así que no sería tan recomendable llevarlo a cabo. Aunque si lo ponés en práctica… ¡que el espíritu de Meg te acompañe! 😉
No le doy 5 ★ porque le faltó un poquito de thriller para mi gusto, y no puedo decir mucho más sin relatar la causa de esto y meter un spoiler.
«El instinto es algo curioso, un susurro de que hay un problema que nunca podemos nombrar, nunca exactamente definir, que nos permite localizar el peligro. A las mujeres se les enseña desde pequeñas a ignorar los suyos. Nos vemos obligadas a justificar nuestros instintos con evidencia, o nos enseñan a ignorarlos como una forma de mantener la paz, a priorizar la comodidad de otras personas sobre la nuestra.»
The plot is wonderfully done and is very satisfying due to all the events that occur. I think it's the dream, the desire, of many people: the so-called "karma", the 'everything comes back', the 'life is a boomerang'.
Has someone ever intentionally done something so horrible to you that it changed your life 180 degrees? Did you feel so much helplessness, so much anger, that you wished that all the harm this person caused you would come back to him/her in strength?
Well, this story is for you. And it's an opening to personal empowerment. Of course, the kind of empowerment that is narrated in these pages is not very legal, therefore would not be so advisable to carry it out. Although if you put it into practice... may Meg's spirit be with you! 😉
I don't give it a 5 ★ because it lacked a bit of a thriller for my taste, and can't say much more without explaining the reason for this and including a spoiler.
«Instinct is a funny thing, a whisper of trouble that we can never quite name, never quite define, that allows us to locate danger. Women are taught from a young age to ignore theirs. We're forced to justify our instincts with evidence, or we're taught to ignore them as a way to keep the peace, to prioritize other people's comfort over our own.»
///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
«Si sos uno de mis objetivos, sabé que te he elegido cuidadosamente.»
La trama está maravillosamente lograda y es muy satisfactoria por todos los hechos que ocurren. Creo que es el sueño, la ilusión, de muchas personas: el llamado “karma”, el ‘todo vuelve’, la vida es un boomerang.
¿Alguna vez alguien intencionalmente te hizo algo tan horrible que cambió el giro de tu vida 180 grados? ¿Sentiste tanta impotencia, tanta ira, que deseaste que todo el mal que te causó esta persona le vuelva potenciado?
Bueno, esta historia es para vos. Y es una apertura al empoderamiento personal. Eso si, la clase de empoderamiento que se relata en estas páginas no es muy legal que digamos así que no sería tan recomendable llevarlo a cabo. Aunque si lo ponés en práctica… ¡que el espíritu de Meg te acompañe! 😉
No le doy 5 ★ porque le faltó un poquito de thriller para mi gusto, y no puedo decir mucho más sin relatar la causa de esto y meter un spoiler.
«El instinto es algo curioso, un susurro de que hay un problema que nunca podemos nombrar, nunca exactamente definir, que nos permite localizar el peligro. A las mujeres se les enseña desde pequeñas a ignorar los suyos. Nos vemos obligadas a justificar nuestros instintos con evidencia, o nos enseñan a ignorarlos como una forma de mantener la paz, a priorizar la comodidad de otras personas sobre la nuestra.»
June 10, 2022
"I spend hundreds of hours on observation and research. Profiling the different people in your life, finding the ones I can befriend, the one who will lead me to you. When I'm done, I know everything I possibly can about you, and most of the people around you. By the time your saying nice to meet you, I've already known you for months. Does this worry you? It should."
Meg Williams and her terminally ill mother were left homeless when her mother's boyfriend finagled his way on the deed of their house and then tossed them out on the street. The house that had been in her family for generations. This gives Meg an idea. An idea that started back in high school.
In high school Meg was the invisible girl with hand me down clothes and her nose in a book. Kirstin, a very popular girl in school was always kind to Meg. When anyone made fun of her Kristin was always quick to chime in for her defense. One day when Meg asked why she always stood up for her, the answer was quick and simple: "It's the Girl Code. We have to look out for each other because no one else will."
Her anger for their home being stolen along with Kristen's comment set in motion a grifting scheme so intricate your head will be spinning. Meg is simply sick and tired of men getting away with using and abusing women with out any repercussions in the end. Hardly even a slap on the wrist. With her keen intelligence, wit, and charm Meg knows that she can right the wrongs that so many women have faced.
Kat, a reporter, came across Meg a decade previous and she has never forgotten how Meg tricked her into an experience that has upended her life in various ways. She has made it her mission to find Meg and make her pay. Imagine her surprise when she see's her at at an elite party for an upcoming senate candidate. Let the games begin.
"The difference between lies and revenge is who's telling the story."
This books isn't a thriller or a mystery but an intricate web of lies and deceit. I was absolutely glued to the pages in awe of what a fine storyteller Julie Clark is. This lady is smart as a whip and I was marveling at how she interwove and connected the storylines. Meg, our grifter, I was rooting for from the beginning. Yes, she's a criminal but one that is focused on helping women while bringing down the men that wronged them and if she made a couple million here or there by swindling all their money then that was just the cherry on the sundae. My only niggle, which is a very personal one, was all the real estate talk but that isn't Ms. Clark's fault that my real estate knowledge is nil. All in all this was a page-turner for this reader and I was left genuinely impressed. I never managed to read her debut The Last Flight but I plan to rectify that soon. 4 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for my complimentary copy.
Meg Williams and her terminally ill mother were left homeless when her mother's boyfriend finagled his way on the deed of their house and then tossed them out on the street. The house that had been in her family for generations. This gives Meg an idea. An idea that started back in high school.
In high school Meg was the invisible girl with hand me down clothes and her nose in a book. Kirstin, a very popular girl in school was always kind to Meg. When anyone made fun of her Kristin was always quick to chime in for her defense. One day when Meg asked why she always stood up for her, the answer was quick and simple: "It's the Girl Code. We have to look out for each other because no one else will."
Her anger for their home being stolen along with Kristen's comment set in motion a grifting scheme so intricate your head will be spinning. Meg is simply sick and tired of men getting away with using and abusing women with out any repercussions in the end. Hardly even a slap on the wrist. With her keen intelligence, wit, and charm Meg knows that she can right the wrongs that so many women have faced.
Kat, a reporter, came across Meg a decade previous and she has never forgotten how Meg tricked her into an experience that has upended her life in various ways. She has made it her mission to find Meg and make her pay. Imagine her surprise when she see's her at at an elite party for an upcoming senate candidate. Let the games begin.
"The difference between lies and revenge is who's telling the story."
This books isn't a thriller or a mystery but an intricate web of lies and deceit. I was absolutely glued to the pages in awe of what a fine storyteller Julie Clark is. This lady is smart as a whip and I was marveling at how she interwove and connected the storylines. Meg, our grifter, I was rooting for from the beginning. Yes, she's a criminal but one that is focused on helping women while bringing down the men that wronged them and if she made a couple million here or there by swindling all their money then that was just the cherry on the sundae. My only niggle, which is a very personal one, was all the real estate talk but that isn't Ms. Clark's fault that my real estate knowledge is nil. All in all this was a page-turner for this reader and I was left genuinely impressed. I never managed to read her debut The Last Flight but I plan to rectify that soon. 4 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for my complimentary copy.
June 22, 2022
5 cat and mouse stars - this one is now available!
I read this one in a single sitting! A terrific cat and mouse game between Meg, a world-class con artist, and Kat, a writer who wants to expose her.
We get Meg’s perspective and learn about her game plan for every con, she’s a pro at assuming different identities and expertly getting the money or whatever she’s targeted from people.
Kat has spent the last 10 years looking for Meg after she suffered after one of Meg’s cons. Kat’s boyfriend is a fraud investigator and warns her to be careful around Meg and to not trust her even one bit.
This time Meg has turned up as a real estate agent in Los Angeles and she’s targeted a man running for office. Somehow Kat ends up working for Meg and I wasn’t sure how this would turn out!
This was a quick and supremely enjoyable read with well-developed and flawed characters. I rooted for both characters for different reasons.
I can’t wait to read the next book from this author!
Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark for the copy of this one to read and review. It was my pleasure to honestly review this one!
I read this one in a single sitting! A terrific cat and mouse game between Meg, a world-class con artist, and Kat, a writer who wants to expose her.
We get Meg’s perspective and learn about her game plan for every con, she’s a pro at assuming different identities and expertly getting the money or whatever she’s targeted from people.
Kat has spent the last 10 years looking for Meg after she suffered after one of Meg’s cons. Kat’s boyfriend is a fraud investigator and warns her to be careful around Meg and to not trust her even one bit.
This time Meg has turned up as a real estate agent in Los Angeles and she’s targeted a man running for office. Somehow Kat ends up working for Meg and I wasn’t sure how this would turn out!
This was a quick and supremely enjoyable read with well-developed and flawed characters. I rooted for both characters for different reasons.
I can’t wait to read the next book from this author!
Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark for the copy of this one to read and review. It was my pleasure to honestly review this one!
April 7, 2024
Kat Roberts is out for revenge.
And...
Meg Williams is a skillful con artist.
Unfortunately...
Kat as a journalist 10 years ago got badly burned and blames Meg for it (when she was working on a case about young Meg who had just performed her first scam).
Ten years later...
Meg is back with a new plan and new victim and Kat is determined to get her revenge.
But...
Something happens along the way to revenge.
“The difference between justice and revenge comes down to who’s telling the story.”
This story is told in two narrative voices throughout – Kat’s and Meg’s. We see them both in present day, and then we go back in time to find out what really happened to set them on this trajectory towards the present.
And back to present day.
How did their paths cross?
What will happen in present time that might fit the axiom that “two women working together are a force to be reckoned with” rather than against?
The plot had just the right rhythm to keep readers interested without rushing through scenes.
And the women!
Both Kat and Meg were interesting in their own right. Their complex, very simple and relatable reasons and motivations for doing what they were doing only made you want to keep turning pages – and asking, what was going to happen next – what would be their next move?
And...
Will they remain strong and determined? Or even successful by the end of it all?
And...
As readers, will we be softened by compassion and sympathy – and want them to succeed in the end?
“You only get one life – how do you want to live it?”
Of course, thinking about revenge, has its ugliness, and it isn’t anything I would want for myself – but, I’m just talking about a story here.
And...
Meg’s backstory really pulled at my heart. Even Kat’s reasons for revenge has merit...
Although…
I’m not offering spoilers.
This book felt more like a thriller than a mystery, but a satisfying one. Not a lot of twists or turns, but I think the small surprises along the way and the satisfying ending makes it a perfect Julie Clark book.
And...
Meg Williams is a skillful con artist.
Unfortunately...
Kat as a journalist 10 years ago got badly burned and blames Meg for it (when she was working on a case about young Meg who had just performed her first scam).
Ten years later...
Meg is back with a new plan and new victim and Kat is determined to get her revenge.
But...
Something happens along the way to revenge.
“The difference between justice and revenge comes down to who’s telling the story.”
This story is told in two narrative voices throughout – Kat’s and Meg’s. We see them both in present day, and then we go back in time to find out what really happened to set them on this trajectory towards the present.
And back to present day.
How did their paths cross?
What will happen in present time that might fit the axiom that “two women working together are a force to be reckoned with” rather than against?
The plot had just the right rhythm to keep readers interested without rushing through scenes.
And the women!
Both Kat and Meg were interesting in their own right. Their complex, very simple and relatable reasons and motivations for doing what they were doing only made you want to keep turning pages – and asking, what was going to happen next – what would be their next move?
And...
Will they remain strong and determined? Or even successful by the end of it all?
And...
As readers, will we be softened by compassion and sympathy – and want them to succeed in the end?
“You only get one life – how do you want to live it?”
Of course, thinking about revenge, has its ugliness, and it isn’t anything I would want for myself – but, I’m just talking about a story here.
And...
Meg’s backstory really pulled at my heart. Even Kat’s reasons for revenge has merit...
Although…
I’m not offering spoilers.
This book felt more like a thriller than a mystery, but a satisfying one. Not a lot of twists or turns, but I think the small surprises along the way and the satisfying ending makes it a perfect Julie Clark book.
July 12, 2022
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Julie Clark; there’s a reason why all three of her books (make sure to check out her debut, The Ones We Choose, and, of course, The Last Flight, if you haven’t already) are rated over 4 stars on Goodreads with thousands of ratings. She’s so consistent. Her female characters are always smart and formidable.
About the book: “AN INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
From the author of the New York Times bestseller The Last Flight comes a twisted con-woman thriller about two women out for revenge―or is it justice?
Two women. Many aliases.
The Lies I Tell is a twisted domestic thriller that dives deep into the psyches and motivations of two women and their unwavering quest to seek justice for the past and rewrite the future.”
Meg… Err Maggie. Melody? She’s got a few names, this one. She’s a con artist who can fit in anywhere, in any role. Also, you will love her. Everyone does. It’s part of her shtick. She makes you feel like a million bucks, and then she takes everything you have.
Kat was conned by Meg in the past, and she’s been waiting to expose her and exact her revenge. Their lives intertwine, and as with every Julie Clark novel, the compulsive readability begins and never lets go. Who’s good? Who’s evil? Who is somewhere in between, and whose side will you be on?
Julie Clark has delivered another sharp and snappy thriller I loved just as much as The Last Flight.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
Julie Clark; there’s a reason why all three of her books (make sure to check out her debut, The Ones We Choose, and, of course, The Last Flight, if you haven’t already) are rated over 4 stars on Goodreads with thousands of ratings. She’s so consistent. Her female characters are always smart and formidable.
About the book: “AN INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
From the author of the New York Times bestseller The Last Flight comes a twisted con-woman thriller about two women out for revenge―or is it justice?
Two women. Many aliases.
The Lies I Tell is a twisted domestic thriller that dives deep into the psyches and motivations of two women and their unwavering quest to seek justice for the past and rewrite the future.”
Meg… Err Maggie. Melody? She’s got a few names, this one. She’s a con artist who can fit in anywhere, in any role. Also, you will love her. Everyone does. It’s part of her shtick. She makes you feel like a million bucks, and then she takes everything you have.
Kat was conned by Meg in the past, and she’s been waiting to expose her and exact her revenge. Their lives intertwine, and as with every Julie Clark novel, the compulsive readability begins and never lets go. Who’s good? Who’s evil? Who is somewhere in between, and whose side will you be on?
Julie Clark has delivered another sharp and snappy thriller I loved just as much as The Last Flight.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
April 28, 2022
Meg Williams is a grifter with several successful long cons, Kat Roberts is a journalist with more than a story on her mind. Revenge and/or justice? Manipulation or integrity? Making amends? Survivor or a villain? Lies versus truth? Who is the cat (Kat? Maybe, maybe not)? Who is the mouse? Will Kat get the scoop of the year/decade or will Meg succeed? Two clever women with their own agendas, engaging in a battle or game of wits and who you root for changes so many times which absolutely keeps you invested in learning the unpredictable outcome.
One of my favourite programs from several years ago was “Hustle“ so Julie Clark has me intrigued from the very beginning. Like their marks in the TV programme there’s always a reason and this emerges organically in this well written, multilayered and tense psychological thriller. The dual perspectives work brilliantly, seamlessly knitted together so the storyline flows. The characterisation is outstanding and all are well portrayed. The plot is clever, the pace is brisk, it’s completely immersive and it’s hard to put down as you get to understand the patience, trust and clever plans to determine who can outwit who. In places it shocks, you applaud some actions, there are surprises and I love the end. Although I don’t entirely understand some of the American legalese involved it actually doesn’t matter as it’s what it achieves that counts.
Overall, this is such a clever book. I loved ‘The Flight’ and I love this one equally. I can’t wait to see what brilliance Julie Clark comes up with next. Highly recommended and a very easy five star rating!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Hodder and Stoughton for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
One of my favourite programs from several years ago was “Hustle“ so Julie Clark has me intrigued from the very beginning. Like their marks in the TV programme there’s always a reason and this emerges organically in this well written, multilayered and tense psychological thriller. The dual perspectives work brilliantly, seamlessly knitted together so the storyline flows. The characterisation is outstanding and all are well portrayed. The plot is clever, the pace is brisk, it’s completely immersive and it’s hard to put down as you get to understand the patience, trust and clever plans to determine who can outwit who. In places it shocks, you applaud some actions, there are surprises and I love the end. Although I don’t entirely understand some of the American legalese involved it actually doesn’t matter as it’s what it achieves that counts.
Overall, this is such a clever book. I loved ‘The Flight’ and I love this one equally. I can’t wait to see what brilliance Julie Clark comes up with next. Highly recommended and a very easy five star rating!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Hodder and Stoughton for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
December 30, 2021
Marksmanship.
Swindle, Fleece, Rook, Snooker, Shaft, Dupe.
What do these words have in common?
This book!
The bigger question is: Who is the con and who is the prey?
With two savvy and unflinching female characters, I was caught in their circuitous web of deceit. Blurred lines, interchangeable roles, and other lying characters made for intrigue as I tried to ascertain who was conning who and what the ultimate goal was.
I love thrillers and especially these ‘Sting’ type sub-genres. With a clever, intricately built plot, each detail added to the final outcome and I loved guessing until the very end.
Julie Clark delivers again!
Her novel The Last Flight was a favorite last year and I loved it so much, I purchased a copy for my bookshelf and two more for friends. You know a book has made an impact when you can remember the details a year later.
Because of that, I was quick to request The Lies I Tell and ecstatic at receiving it. It’ll be a repeat for me to buy my own copy upon June 21, 2022 publication.
Thank you to NetGalley, Julie Clark, and Sourcebooks Landmark for my electronic advance review copy.
Swindle, Fleece, Rook, Snooker, Shaft, Dupe.
What do these words have in common?
This book!
The bigger question is: Who is the con and who is the prey?
With two savvy and unflinching female characters, I was caught in their circuitous web of deceit. Blurred lines, interchangeable roles, and other lying characters made for intrigue as I tried to ascertain who was conning who and what the ultimate goal was.
I love thrillers and especially these ‘Sting’ type sub-genres. With a clever, intricately built plot, each detail added to the final outcome and I loved guessing until the very end.
Julie Clark delivers again!
Her novel The Last Flight was a favorite last year and I loved it so much, I purchased a copy for my bookshelf and two more for friends. You know a book has made an impact when you can remember the details a year later.
Because of that, I was quick to request The Lies I Tell and ecstatic at receiving it. It’ll be a repeat for me to buy my own copy upon June 21, 2022 publication.
Thank you to NetGalley, Julie Clark, and Sourcebooks Landmark for my electronic advance review copy.
January 10, 2022
The Lies I Tell is a knockout. Smart, savvy and so duplicitous with a propulsive storyline and two of the most beguiling female characters I’ve ever met. Julie Clark does it again!
January 23, 2023
The Lies I Tell by Julie Clark is a 2022 Sourcebooks Landmark publication.
Kat Robert’s life and journalism career was derailed and she’s now writing junk articles to pay the bills. For ten years she has held one woman responsible for the events that upended her life… and now that the woman has finally resurfaced, it’s time for a little payback.
Meg is a con-artist, a grifter- and her newest target is an old nemesis – the man responsible for making her a homeless teenager. When Kat suddenly infiltrates her life, Meg is not at all fooled. She knows Kat has an agenda- and that agenda is her…
This is a whip-smart thriller with several well-played elements going at one time. Clever schemes, revenge, and unreliable characters made this a highly entertaining page-turner!! I can’t wait to see what Clark will comes up with next!!
4 + stars
Kat Robert’s life and journalism career was derailed and she’s now writing junk articles to pay the bills. For ten years she has held one woman responsible for the events that upended her life… and now that the woman has finally resurfaced, it’s time for a little payback.
Meg is a con-artist, a grifter- and her newest target is an old nemesis – the man responsible for making her a homeless teenager. When Kat suddenly infiltrates her life, Meg is not at all fooled. She knows Kat has an agenda- and that agenda is her…
This is a whip-smart thriller with several well-played elements going at one time. Clever schemes, revenge, and unreliable characters made this a highly entertaining page-turner!! I can’t wait to see what Clark will comes up with next!!
4 + stars
February 8, 2022
Review posted to blog: books-are-a-girls-best-friend.com
A fast-paced thriller that will keep you enthralled throughout!
Meg Williams is not who she appears to be. She’s a beautiful, whip-smart & successful realtor who’s new in town, and who has something to prove. She’s also a con artist and has been for most of her adult life. Back in LA for the first time in 10 years, she has a plan and has something to prove. Big time.
Kat Roberts is a journalist who has been on Meg’s tail for about 10 years. Caught in Meg’s web, Kat soon realizes that nothing in life is black and white.
A twisted, tangled, character-driven tale that is simply unputdownable. While I guessed the ending almost immediately, it didn’t take away from my enjoyment whatsoever.
The Lies I Tell is my second read by Julie Clark and I was not disappointed in the least! I will now be eagerly awaiting her next release.
A fun, fabulous buddy read with Kaceey.
Thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark via Netgalley for the arc.
Published on Goodreads and Twitter.
A fast-paced thriller that will keep you enthralled throughout!
Meg Williams is not who she appears to be. She’s a beautiful, whip-smart & successful realtor who’s new in town, and who has something to prove. She’s also a con artist and has been for most of her adult life. Back in LA for the first time in 10 years, she has a plan and has something to prove. Big time.
Kat Roberts is a journalist who has been on Meg’s tail for about 10 years. Caught in Meg’s web, Kat soon realizes that nothing in life is black and white.
A twisted, tangled, character-driven tale that is simply unputdownable. While I guessed the ending almost immediately, it didn’t take away from my enjoyment whatsoever.
The Lies I Tell is my second read by Julie Clark and I was not disappointed in the least! I will now be eagerly awaiting her next release.
A fun, fabulous buddy read with Kaceey.
Thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark via Netgalley for the arc.
Published on Goodreads and Twitter.
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