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History is a Lie
1215 AD How did 6,000 Englishmen overcome and defeat 36,000 French men at Agincourt?
1872 AD What really happened to the crew on the Marie Celeste?
1633 AD Why did Japan self-isolate from the rest of the world?
1760 AD Why did the Industrial revolution happen in Britain?
476 AD What really caused the fall of the Roman Empire?
1916 AD Why was Rasputin so hard to kill?
73 AD Why did Rome really lay siege to the fortress of Masada?
William, a serial killer is on the rampage. Hunting his next victim, he finds himself in a strange situation as he comes across a man drinking blood from a rent boy in a downtown Las Vegas motel room.
This man claims to be a two-thousand-year-old being who survives on human blood. As he tells his tale, is his story a lie or is History a Lie. Everything William thinks he knows about mankind and civilisation is questioned.
As the story begins to unfold, the FBI and other forces are moving in on the strange pair as they in turn play out a standoff with each other. What is true? What is false? Who is holding the power cards? How will this encounter be told in history, or would it ever be told?
1872 AD What really happened to the crew on the Marie Celeste?
1633 AD Why did Japan self-isolate from the rest of the world?
1760 AD Why did the Industrial revolution happen in Britain?
476 AD What really caused the fall of the Roman Empire?
1916 AD Why was Rasputin so hard to kill?
73 AD Why did Rome really lay siege to the fortress of Masada?
William, a serial killer is on the rampage. Hunting his next victim, he finds himself in a strange situation as he comes across a man drinking blood from a rent boy in a downtown Las Vegas motel room.
This man claims to be a two-thousand-year-old being who survives on human blood. As he tells his tale, is his story a lie or is History a Lie. Everything William thinks he knows about mankind and civilisation is questioned.
As the story begins to unfold, the FBI and other forces are moving in on the strange pair as they in turn play out a standoff with each other. What is true? What is false? Who is holding the power cards? How will this encounter be told in history, or would it ever be told?
300 pages, Paperback
Published August 1, 2021
5 people are currently reading
6 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
February 8, 2021
Over the last year or so, I’ve connected with Morton on Twitter and read his first two releases. One thing I’ve loved seeing is his continued growth and improvement with each release and as he’s become a more refined writer, his ability to tackle ambitious concepts has also improved.
Case in point is ‘History is a Lie’ a novel that time jumps with most chapters to follow a central character. Leader dove into this with enthusiasm, which was evident from a few direct messages he sent me, sharing how excited he was for this book.
What I liked: ‘History is a Lie’ is tale that shares how an unknown or hidden race of creatures has been behind some of the biggest moments in Earth’s history and how the powers that be are in the know, but keep it covered up. Leader does a fine job of tackling different points throughout history and I really enjoyed seeing each section tackled.
As well, the banter between two of the characters that propels this story was really great. A mixture of sarcasm and disbelief.
The story moves along at a really great clip, which allows the reader to really become immersed in the worlds that Leader has created and the last quarter of the book finds another level, another gear where we see things come to a head. Leader really shines here, with some fantastic descriptive moments.
What I didn’t like: The biggest thing I noticed was for a story that is set in Vegas, there is a lot of ‘UK-isms’ in the dialogue and descriptions. Granted, Leader is from the UK, but there were a number of moments that pulled me from the story when I struggled to think that a US based FBI agent would use a specific word or phrase. Not sure if Leader used a North American Beta Reader on this, but if so – they should be fired haha!
Why you should buy this: As I mentioned, Leader has continued to make leaps and bounds of progress in his writing and ability to craft a story. I really enjoyed how this one rolled along and I think for fans of dark fiction, this would be a pleasant surprise. Leader does have another book out, which may be something fans of gang/crime fiction may want to dive into (personally not a genre I enjoy very much of), but I’m excited to see where Leader goes from here.
Well done, Morton!
Case in point is ‘History is a Lie’ a novel that time jumps with most chapters to follow a central character. Leader dove into this with enthusiasm, which was evident from a few direct messages he sent me, sharing how excited he was for this book.
What I liked: ‘History is a Lie’ is tale that shares how an unknown or hidden race of creatures has been behind some of the biggest moments in Earth’s history and how the powers that be are in the know, but keep it covered up. Leader does a fine job of tackling different points throughout history and I really enjoyed seeing each section tackled.
As well, the banter between two of the characters that propels this story was really great. A mixture of sarcasm and disbelief.
The story moves along at a really great clip, which allows the reader to really become immersed in the worlds that Leader has created and the last quarter of the book finds another level, another gear where we see things come to a head. Leader really shines here, with some fantastic descriptive moments.
What I didn’t like: The biggest thing I noticed was for a story that is set in Vegas, there is a lot of ‘UK-isms’ in the dialogue and descriptions. Granted, Leader is from the UK, but there were a number of moments that pulled me from the story when I struggled to think that a US based FBI agent would use a specific word or phrase. Not sure if Leader used a North American Beta Reader on this, but if so – they should be fired haha!
Why you should buy this: As I mentioned, Leader has continued to make leaps and bounds of progress in his writing and ability to craft a story. I really enjoyed how this one rolled along and I think for fans of dark fiction, this would be a pleasant surprise. Leader does have another book out, which may be something fans of gang/crime fiction may want to dive into (personally not a genre I enjoy very much of), but I’m excited to see where Leader goes from here.
Well done, Morton!
May 12, 2022
This is a retelling of history with an interesting and unique twist: what if everything we know was a lie?
This book offers an alternative explanation for some of the major events taking place throughout the centuries. I think the insertion of vampires into history's main events was done quite cleverly. I had never before read anything even remotely similar.
I must be honest, the genre (which I think could be describe as dark fantasy) is not entirely my thing since I have a hard time getting into anything that's not reality-based, but it's good writing and an interesting story for sure. I did enjoy it though, and I am sure that pople who are more into these type of genres will enjoy it even more.
This book offers an alternative explanation for some of the major events taking place throughout the centuries. I think the insertion of vampires into history's main events was done quite cleverly. I had never before read anything even remotely similar.
I must be honest, the genre (which I think could be describe as dark fantasy) is not entirely my thing since I have a hard time getting into anything that's not reality-based, but it's good writing and an interesting story for sure. I did enjoy it though, and I am sure that pople who are more into these type of genres will enjoy it even more.
November 26, 2021
Buckle up for a twisted historical fiction sci-fi thriller. A vampire like being, one of many throughout history, tells his story in a kind of Forrest Gump fashion, of how his kind has played a hand in major events throughout time—or have they? As the story continues, a wider cast of characters is introduced each with their own complexities and resolve to add to the mix. With each introduction comes another layer to the story—another narrative. This was a good quality, yet unusual story. It has a lot of unexpected twists, and surprise actions—anything can happen. I’m not a history buff by any means, but I do love to read about it and imagine the possibilities that there may be more to the story than what we’re taught—even something that may be completely irrational and, well, just nuts! History is a Lie has some out-there ideas of some historical events that are entertaining, and somewhat eye opening. Certainly a fun read if you like action, thrills and bizarre circumstances.
June 26, 2022
History Is A Lie is a blast, from start to finish, and barely pauses for breath. I have no idea how you’d really categorise this book, but if you like alternate histories, the supernatural, serial killers, cop drama, social comment and learning about real historical events (even if they do turn out to be “A Lie”), then this book has something for you. Morton Leader has a determination not to let you get comfortable with expectation, as the rug is whipped out from under your feet just as you think you know who is coming of best, or which way the plot is leading.
All in all, it’s a hugely inventive novel which will make you want to go back to more of this author’s work. And, there might just possibly be a hint for a sequel?
All in all, it’s a hugely inventive novel which will make you want to go back to more of this author’s work. And, there might just possibly be a hint for a sequel?
March 21, 2022
This review first appeared on my blog - https://nsfordwriter.com - on 21st March 2022.
A crime thriller and conspiracy novel with a supernatural element, this is an unusual book with an ambitious range of settings, time periods and characters.
It begins with a serial killer getting something he didn’t bargain for – an alleged vampire as a victim. The vampire starts to tell his life story. Events go back and forth between the present and the distant past. The chapters also cut to the police, who are closing in on the serial killer. Then the story shifts focus and I won’t give any more away. It’s quite a strange novel, very unpredictable (which for me is always a good thing) with a strongly political sense and a lot of violent action. I have to admit that due to the violence and the historical eras included, this is not my kind of read, yet there’s never a dull moment and it’s not a book I’m likely to forget! The conspiracy element of the novel is chilling and goes right up to recent events. It will certainly make you think.
The book could benefit from more proofreading, as there were quite a few typos, punctuation errors and malapropisms in the text. Not everyone will be as bothered or notice them, however.
A crime thriller and conspiracy novel with a supernatural element, this is an unusual book with an ambitious range of settings, time periods and characters.
It begins with a serial killer getting something he didn’t bargain for – an alleged vampire as a victim. The vampire starts to tell his life story. Events go back and forth between the present and the distant past. The chapters also cut to the police, who are closing in on the serial killer. Then the story shifts focus and I won’t give any more away. It’s quite a strange novel, very unpredictable (which for me is always a good thing) with a strongly political sense and a lot of violent action. I have to admit that due to the violence and the historical eras included, this is not my kind of read, yet there’s never a dull moment and it’s not a book I’m likely to forget! The conspiracy element of the novel is chilling and goes right up to recent events. It will certainly make you think.
The book could benefit from more proofreading, as there were quite a few typos, punctuation errors and malapropisms in the text. Not everyone will be as bothered or notice them, however.
July 23, 2023
This review was originally posted at https://bit.ly/43Bt3hk.
Intent on revenge William preys upon those he holds responsible for his disfigurement, until he stumbles across something odd. Rather than finding a man and a call boy having a good time in the hotel room the boy is having blood removed in a dazed state. Curious, he sits with the man and hears his far-fetched story about being essentially a vampire, but not like the traditional ones. They live for long periods but are not immortal, can go in the sun, and each has their own unique set of powers that increase when they are better fed. Still, to believe this man the entirety of history as it is known is a lie and was instead guided by this kind.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. You may notice that the last review I wrote was also by Morton Leader. I promise you this was not by design. In fact, the writing styles between the two books differ so greatly that I didn't think to check the author at any point up till writing this review.
The book started off on a weak point, in my opinion, and I almost stopped reading. We start by seeing a cult-like church protesting LGBTQ+ which results in someone throwing a Molotov cocktail into the cab of a truck, seemingly killing a very young boy who didn't want to be there in the first place. Who shouldn't have been there. From there the book picks up where the boy is now an adult and is exacting his revenge on those he feels is responsible for his disfigurement. The rolling of the eyes here is real.
Still, because of this we are able to meet the true main character of the book Marcus and hear his story. While the book takes place in the United States there are a lot of British terms within the book as well as multiple scenes in other countries. Not only as Marcus tells the story of not only himself, but his people, but also as we meet up with others and find how they reached the point Marcus was not present for.
This book is a dark fantasy and is not without merit once you get past that first chapter. I went from hating the book and being completely over it to enjoying it by the time it was all said and done. Can't say I agree with how the book ended, but you will see what I mean there for yourself.
I've complained about the bad, but really it wasn't prevalent. Marcus is a creature with an unusually large lifespan that has vampire-like qualities. However, their weaknesses are very different. Take enough damage they die. Salt water will melt them. And they can die of old age. They are born only and cannot be made. Unique, but interesting. Salt water was a bit weird, though.
We see different viewpoints throughout the book from those of his kind wanting to help humans advance in exchange for blood, those wanting to rule over humans and take what they want, and Marcus who just wants to co-exist peacefully. A you live your life and I'll live mine mentality. With how this book started it is surprising there is anyone with that mentality in this book, but I digress.
We hear about multiple points in history (most of which American readers won't recall unless you are a foreign history buff-of which I am not) that are not quite like the books tell us. Instead it is described how these events came to pass through more supernatural means. Humans are often the "bad guys" in this book as they are frequently the aggressors. Not saying that the group who wanted to use humans as cattle was in the right, however, I find it hard to believe it would have gotten to that point if the humans hadn't treated them as slaves to do their bidding for so long.
Intent on revenge William preys upon those he holds responsible for his disfigurement, until he stumbles across something odd. Rather than finding a man and a call boy having a good time in the hotel room the boy is having blood removed in a dazed state. Curious, he sits with the man and hears his far-fetched story about being essentially a vampire, but not like the traditional ones. They live for long periods but are not immortal, can go in the sun, and each has their own unique set of powers that increase when they are better fed. Still, to believe this man the entirety of history as it is known is a lie and was instead guided by this kind.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. You may notice that the last review I wrote was also by Morton Leader. I promise you this was not by design. In fact, the writing styles between the two books differ so greatly that I didn't think to check the author at any point up till writing this review.
The book started off on a weak point, in my opinion, and I almost stopped reading. We start by seeing a cult-like church protesting LGBTQ+ which results in someone throwing a Molotov cocktail into the cab of a truck, seemingly killing a very young boy who didn't want to be there in the first place. Who shouldn't have been there. From there the book picks up where the boy is now an adult and is exacting his revenge on those he feels is responsible for his disfigurement. The rolling of the eyes here is real.
Still, because of this we are able to meet the true main character of the book Marcus and hear his story. While the book takes place in the United States there are a lot of British terms within the book as well as multiple scenes in other countries. Not only as Marcus tells the story of not only himself, but his people, but also as we meet up with others and find how they reached the point Marcus was not present for.
This book is a dark fantasy and is not without merit once you get past that first chapter. I went from hating the book and being completely over it to enjoying it by the time it was all said and done. Can't say I agree with how the book ended, but you will see what I mean there for yourself.
I've complained about the bad, but really it wasn't prevalent. Marcus is a creature with an unusually large lifespan that has vampire-like qualities. However, their weaknesses are very different. Take enough damage they die. Salt water will melt them. And they can die of old age. They are born only and cannot be made. Unique, but interesting. Salt water was a bit weird, though.
We see different viewpoints throughout the book from those of his kind wanting to help humans advance in exchange for blood, those wanting to rule over humans and take what they want, and Marcus who just wants to co-exist peacefully. A you live your life and I'll live mine mentality. With how this book started it is surprising there is anyone with that mentality in this book, but I digress.
We hear about multiple points in history (most of which American readers won't recall unless you are a foreign history buff-of which I am not) that are not quite like the books tell us. Instead it is described how these events came to pass through more supernatural means. Humans are often the "bad guys" in this book as they are frequently the aggressors. Not saying that the group who wanted to use humans as cattle was in the right, however, I find it hard to believe it would have gotten to that point if the humans hadn't treated them as slaves to do their bidding for so long.
January 7, 2022
A 4.5 star read.
This is one of the hardest book reviews I have ever had to write as wasn't sure on what to score the book...the book is all about a serial killer who is seeking out targets but one day comes across a man in a motel room who tells him stories about how he is a vampire and has been alive for a number of years. The story focuses on how a lot of what mankind knows of its history is actually a lie and has had cover ups done to ensure people don't know the truth of the vampires and what they really are.
The book is a truly amazing read and I would ordinarily have scored it 5 stars with no issues but there were a number of editing issues that niggled and would have scored it down to a 4 star so I have had to be fair and go in the middle as a 4.5 star read. If you are able to accept that a book may have some editing issues and see past that to the story then this is a book you should check out as the story itself is truly brilliant.
This is one of the hardest book reviews I have ever had to write as wasn't sure on what to score the book...the book is all about a serial killer who is seeking out targets but one day comes across a man in a motel room who tells him stories about how he is a vampire and has been alive for a number of years. The story focuses on how a lot of what mankind knows of its history is actually a lie and has had cover ups done to ensure people don't know the truth of the vampires and what they really are.
The book is a truly amazing read and I would ordinarily have scored it 5 stars with no issues but there were a number of editing issues that niggled and would have scored it down to a 4 star so I have had to be fair and go in the middle as a 4.5 star read. If you are able to accept that a book may have some editing issues and see past that to the story then this is a book you should check out as the story itself is truly brilliant.
February 13, 2021
Really entertaining read, amazingly starts off in ancient Persia and ends up right here and now to current events.
Told in a very detailed way that doesn’t over whelm, the story races along covering so much history and folklore.
I think I may have even learned a couple of things as well.
Highly recommend to fans of dark fiction, action packed, both fun and serious with a message about mankind behind it all.
Told in a very detailed way that doesn’t over whelm, the story races along covering so much history and folklore.
I think I may have even learned a couple of things as well.
Highly recommend to fans of dark fiction, action packed, both fun and serious with a message about mankind behind it all.
March 20, 2021
A great read by a great author
I honestly didn't know what to expect when I started reading this but I was left very pleased that I did.
History is a lie, is a book that will keep you thinking and keep you amazed through its combination of history events with a supernatural touch.
The book is clearly well researched and well written which emphasises the talent the author has and I can't wait to read more from this author.
I honestly didn't know what to expect when I started reading this but I was left very pleased that I did.
History is a lie, is a book that will keep you thinking and keep you amazed through its combination of history events with a supernatural touch.
The book is clearly well researched and well written which emphasises the talent the author has and I can't wait to read more from this author.
September 17, 2021
This is a very alternative take on vampires and I found the mythology around them interesting and a core element to the narrative. The story moves around in time which can be disconcerting at times but does add background to the events taking place in the present, events seen from many differing points of view.
If you enjoy conspiracy theories and secret organisations you'll definitely find this a page turner. I found myself eagerly awaiting the next 'connection' throughout.
If you enjoy conspiracy theories and secret organisations you'll definitely find this a page turner. I found myself eagerly awaiting the next 'connection' throughout.
March 14, 2022
I stumbled over this book on twitter. The title intrigued me as I do love a bit of history. The story is quite mind blowing, with the main characters being vampires living alongside humans throughout time.
Their involvement in key historical events is well designed and plausible. I would have liked more information on the early periods of history, perhaps a prequel?
Well written and a good read.
Their involvement in key historical events is well designed and plausible. I would have liked more information on the early periods of history, perhaps a prequel?
Well written and a good read.
September 4, 2025
I really enjoyed the unique concept and flow of "History is a Lie." It offered an interesting take on alternate history, with plenty of unexpected twists. While some aspects of the writing style resonated with me more than others, overall, it was a fast-paced and unpredictable page-turner. I definitely recommend this book to readers who enjoy alternate history and are looking for something original to read.
June 27, 2021
History as it 'really' happened, told by a Sage/vampire-like creature who lives for thousands of years.
I was more interested in the present day parts of the story, but history buffs will love the new takes on many pivotable historical events.
Well written, Interesting characters, and really fast paced, exciting conclusion.
I will be reading more by this author.
I was more interested in the present day parts of the story, but history buffs will love the new takes on many pivotable historical events.
Well written, Interesting characters, and really fast paced, exciting conclusion.
I will be reading more by this author.
September 8, 2021
A thoroughly entertaining, incredibly creative, fast-paced read. It's packed with numerous inventive twists events from history, including covid!
The story begins in a similar fashion to Anne Rice's "Interview with a Vampire", but quickly moves on to cut its own path. In my opinion, this could have been expanded to make two or three books, and would make an amazing TV series.
The story begins in a similar fashion to Anne Rice's "Interview with a Vampire", but quickly moves on to cut its own path. In my opinion, this could have been expanded to make two or three books, and would make an amazing TV series.
June 25, 2023
Romp really is the best word I can think of to describe this novel. It is pacey, unflinching, and clevery constructed so that you almost believe ...
It's the second of the author's works I've now read and both have been extremely enjoyable. I might even have to stop saying that I 'don't usually read things like this'!
It's the second of the author's works I've now read and both have been extremely enjoyable. I might even have to stop saying that I 'don't usually read things like this'!
September 22, 2021
History retold
Imagine history retold but with vampires running the show. Morton R. Leader has taken dry history and made it fun and unusual. I liked this read. It stretched MT imagination to new heights!
Imagine history retold but with vampires running the show. Morton R. Leader has taken dry history and made it fun and unusual. I liked this read. It stretched MT imagination to new heights!
October 26, 2021
Do you love vampires? Do you love history? Do you love action? Then you will love this book. It's easy to read style keeps you entertained and guessing throughout. A little bit bonkers in places and I loved it.
July 5, 2024
An imaginative premise and solid writing fuel this Forrest Gump-ian retelling of how various global historic events were influenced and steered by a secret society of vampire-like beings. A very enjoyable book with a great mix of horror, adventure, and intrigue.
June 14, 2021
Truly different, unexpected and riveting. Vampire are a favourite of mine and I read this before I looked up what its about. It was a great read, refreshingly different.
October 9, 2021
A Must-read for Fans of Conspiracy Thrillers
The story-telling was stellar, making it easy to keep turning pages in this thriller. You sink into the action right away and stay invested because you just have to know how this story ends.
As a fan of thrillers, I was pleasantly surprised by several of the twists and outcomes that were far different from my predictions.
The author anchors this tale with a myriad of characters with masterfully interwoven stories. Kudos to his skill. I look forward to more from him.
The story-telling was stellar, making it easy to keep turning pages in this thriller. You sink into the action right away and stay invested because you just have to know how this story ends.
As a fan of thrillers, I was pleasantly surprised by several of the twists and outcomes that were far different from my predictions.
The author anchors this tale with a myriad of characters with masterfully interwoven stories. Kudos to his skill. I look forward to more from him.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews