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Journalists #1
Lovers and Liars
Now, from the author of Destiny, comes a novel certain to be as talked about, as richly romantic and wicked, as that number one New York Times bestseller. Lovers and Liars is Sally Beauman's sensuous, very contemporary story of public masks and secret lives, of a "perfect" marriage that is not what it seems, and of lovers long separated yet destined to meet, tumultuously, again.
On a frosty January morning soon after the New Year's revels, an exquisitely dressed, beautiful blonde woman sends four identical parcels to four different Paris, New York, Venice and London. But the lovely messenger is not who she claims to be.
Photographer Pascal Lamartine receives his package in it is a woman's black glove, silky, scented, and disturbing. In London, reporter Gini Hunter, daughter of a famous Pulitzer prize-winning journalist, opens her parcel to find even more threatening contents. And within hours, Gini's enterprising editor assigns both her and Pascal to expose the story of a lifetime; a story so rich, so ripe with potential scandal, that it could make headlines--and ruin lives. For Gini and Pascal must penetrate the perfect facade of John Hawthorne, the charming, charismatic U.S. Ambassador to Great Britain, to sift through the layers of ever-shifting truth about his life.
The wealthy scion of a famous American family--in short, perfect presidential material--John Hawthorne appears to have thrown away a promising political career to take a diplomatic post. Why? His wife, Lise, a legendary beauty, is a master at seducing the media; her delicate features are a constant presence on the society pages for her charity work, her skills as a hostess, and her unrelenting chic. Yet the exhaustive, adoring coverage has left the real woman mysteriously opaque. And now, unbelievably, she seems to be the source of certain whisperings about her husband.
But beyond the sensational story they are about to unmask--a black-widow web of deceit, betrayal, and dark desires more complex and perilous than they could have imagined--Gini and Pascal must confront themselves, their past, and their brief, passionate love affair twelve years before, when the fascination between them reached a fever pitch only to end explosively. Even as their investigation plunges them dangerously into the hypocrisies of the privileged and powerful, where each surprising revelation is replaced by a new, even more shocking contradiction, past merges with present, taking the two lovers back to the hot, bare room at the edge of danger where, for one burning moment, the world made perfect sense, took perfect shape.
Deftly woven of erotic secrets and unfolding deceptions that stretch across more than two decades, Lovers and Liars is a romantic and spellbindingly suspenseful journey into the mysteries of the heart, where love can sustain the soul--or twist it cruelly.
"First-rate suspense." --Cosmopolitan
On a frosty January morning soon after the New Year's revels, an exquisitely dressed, beautiful blonde woman sends four identical parcels to four different Paris, New York, Venice and London. But the lovely messenger is not who she claims to be.
Photographer Pascal Lamartine receives his package in it is a woman's black glove, silky, scented, and disturbing. In London, reporter Gini Hunter, daughter of a famous Pulitzer prize-winning journalist, opens her parcel to find even more threatening contents. And within hours, Gini's enterprising editor assigns both her and Pascal to expose the story of a lifetime; a story so rich, so ripe with potential scandal, that it could make headlines--and ruin lives. For Gini and Pascal must penetrate the perfect facade of John Hawthorne, the charming, charismatic U.S. Ambassador to Great Britain, to sift through the layers of ever-shifting truth about his life.
The wealthy scion of a famous American family--in short, perfect presidential material--John Hawthorne appears to have thrown away a promising political career to take a diplomatic post. Why? His wife, Lise, a legendary beauty, is a master at seducing the media; her delicate features are a constant presence on the society pages for her charity work, her skills as a hostess, and her unrelenting chic. Yet the exhaustive, adoring coverage has left the real woman mysteriously opaque. And now, unbelievably, she seems to be the source of certain whisperings about her husband.
But beyond the sensational story they are about to unmask--a black-widow web of deceit, betrayal, and dark desires more complex and perilous than they could have imagined--Gini and Pascal must confront themselves, their past, and their brief, passionate love affair twelve years before, when the fascination between them reached a fever pitch only to end explosively. Even as their investigation plunges them dangerously into the hypocrisies of the privileged and powerful, where each surprising revelation is replaced by a new, even more shocking contradiction, past merges with present, taking the two lovers back to the hot, bare room at the edge of danger where, for one burning moment, the world made perfect sense, took perfect shape.
Deftly woven of erotic secrets and unfolding deceptions that stretch across more than two decades, Lovers and Liars is a romantic and spellbindingly suspenseful journey into the mysteries of the heart, where love can sustain the soul--or twist it cruelly.
"First-rate suspense." --Cosmopolitan
Mass Market Paperback
First published April 12, 1994
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About the author
Sally Beauman
42 books167 followersaka Vanessa James
Sally Kinsey-Miles graduated from Girton College, Cambridge (MA in English Literature) She married Christopher Beauman an economist. After graduating, she moved with her husband to the USA, where she lived for three years, first in Washington DC, then New York, and travelled extensively. She began her career as a journalist in America, joining the staff of the newly launched New York magazine, of which she became associate editor, and continued to write for it after her return to England. Interviewed Alan Howard for the Telegraph Magazine in 1970 in an article called 'A Fellow of Most Excellent Fancy'. (Daily Telegraph Supplement, May 29th.) Apparently a very long interview. The following year they met again, and the rest is history. After a long partnership Sally and Alan married in 2004. She has one son, James, and one grandchild.
Sally had a distinguished career as a journalist and critic, winning the Catherine Pakenham Award for her writing, and becoming the youngest-ever editor of Queen magazine (now Harper’s & Queen). She has contributed to many leading newspapers and magazines in both the UK and the USA, including the Daily Telegraph ( from 1970-73 and 1976-8 she was Arts Editor of the Sunday Telegraph Magazine), the Sunday Times, Observer, Vogue, the New York Times and the New Yorker. She also wrote nine Mills & Boon romances under the pseudonym Vanessa James, before publishing her block-buster novel Destiny in 1987 under her real name. It was her article about Daphne du Maurier, commissioned by Tina Brown, and published in The New Yorker in November 1993, which first gave her the idea for writing Rebecca de Winter’s version of events at Manderley – an idea that subsequently became the novel, Rebecca’s Tale. In 2000 she was one of the Whitbread Prize judges for the best novel category.
Sally Kinsey-Miles graduated from Girton College, Cambridge (MA in English Literature) She married Christopher Beauman an economist. After graduating, she moved with her husband to the USA, where she lived for three years, first in Washington DC, then New York, and travelled extensively. She began her career as a journalist in America, joining the staff of the newly launched New York magazine, of which she became associate editor, and continued to write for it after her return to England. Interviewed Alan Howard for the Telegraph Magazine in 1970 in an article called 'A Fellow of Most Excellent Fancy'. (Daily Telegraph Supplement, May 29th.) Apparently a very long interview. The following year they met again, and the rest is history. After a long partnership Sally and Alan married in 2004. She has one son, James, and one grandchild.
Sally had a distinguished career as a journalist and critic, winning the Catherine Pakenham Award for her writing, and becoming the youngest-ever editor of Queen magazine (now Harper’s & Queen). She has contributed to many leading newspapers and magazines in both the UK and the USA, including the Daily Telegraph ( from 1970-73 and 1976-8 she was Arts Editor of the Sunday Telegraph Magazine), the Sunday Times, Observer, Vogue, the New York Times and the New Yorker. She also wrote nine Mills & Boon romances under the pseudonym Vanessa James, before publishing her block-buster novel Destiny in 1987 under her real name. It was her article about Daphne du Maurier, commissioned by Tina Brown, and published in The New Yorker in November 1993, which first gave her the idea for writing Rebecca de Winter’s version of events at Manderley – an idea that subsequently became the novel, Rebecca’s Tale. In 2000 she was one of the Whitbread Prize judges for the best novel category.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
October 25, 2013
Lovers and Liars by Sally Beauman was originally published in 1995. Open Road Integrated Media has released this book in digital format. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review from Netgally and the publisher. This the Retro Romance book of the month read.
Gini Hunter and Pascal Lamartine, as well as two others receive a rather disturbing parcel. Closely following that event, Gini, a reporter finds herself assigned a case with Pascal, a journalist photographer.
The case? To dig into John and Lise Hawthorne's marriage. Why?
John was once considered a promising presidential candidate. His beautiful wife, Lise, commanded the media's attention like Jackie Kennedy once did. But, then John accepted a position in London, puzzling many. Now rumors have begun to circulate that there is trouble in the marriage and not only that, John is perhaps involved in some rather kinky sex practices.
To complicate matters, Gini and Pascal share a history. Gini was a teenager when she met Pascal. He was under the impression she was older and the two began a torrid affair. Once Gini's world famous journalist father got wind of it, he intervened and it has now been twelve years since Gini and Pascal have seen each other.
Gini has focused on her career, while Pascal's took a nose dive and his marriage crumbled.
They attempt to work together as mature adults and leave the past behind them. That turns out to be easier said than done.
As their investigation heats up, other disturbing facts come to light, such as John's tour in Vietnam and his possible involvement in war atrocities. Also, Gini finds herself walking on eggshells around her former step-mother, whom she maintains a close relationship with, because Mary is close friends with the Hawthorne's.
Gini also find herself the victim of prank phone calls, break ins and other disturbing occurrences that are absolutely linked to the case she is working on.
First of all, let me warn you that this is a lengthy book, weighing in at over 700 pages.
This style of writing in contemporary and romantic suspense is not often attempted these days.
The story twist and turns and little by little facts are revealed that take us into the lurid world of John and Lise Hawthorne. Gini's relationship with her father also becomes intertwined in the case.
Shadowy figures emerge that may or may not be trustworthy. Gini becomes a pawn in the head games of John Hawthorne, his father, her father, her boss, and even to some extent Pascal.
The story was typical of the time period it was written in. The sexual perversions of politicians and the twisty plot lines, the locations, the job challenges for a female reporter, and the way men regarded career women.
While the book was interesting and I did want to know what was going to happen next, and was curious where all this would lead, I must confess to finding it hard to stay focused at times. The book was just over long. I think it could have been edited down a couple of hundred pages and we would never know the pages were missing.
The chemistry between Pascal and Gini was lukewarm. Pascal's marriage was of zero interest to me, since it didn't have a darn thing to do with the story line. Too many years had passed and Pascal and Gini were very different people. There were a few sparks here and there, but I got very aggravated at Pascal when he tried to manipulate Gini, even if he was trying to protect her.
I liked the book, but I didn't love it. I do recommend it to those who enjoy romantic suspense, even if the style is a bit outdated. I have never, to my knowledge, read anything by this author. I did select a couple of her other books, that were not as long, to try out. They sound interesting. So, although I had a few issues with the book, I am still interested in seeing what else the author has written and giving it a try.
Overall this one gets a C+.
Gini Hunter and Pascal Lamartine, as well as two others receive a rather disturbing parcel. Closely following that event, Gini, a reporter finds herself assigned a case with Pascal, a journalist photographer.
The case? To dig into John and Lise Hawthorne's marriage. Why?
John was once considered a promising presidential candidate. His beautiful wife, Lise, commanded the media's attention like Jackie Kennedy once did. But, then John accepted a position in London, puzzling many. Now rumors have begun to circulate that there is trouble in the marriage and not only that, John is perhaps involved in some rather kinky sex practices.
To complicate matters, Gini and Pascal share a history. Gini was a teenager when she met Pascal. He was under the impression she was older and the two began a torrid affair. Once Gini's world famous journalist father got wind of it, he intervened and it has now been twelve years since Gini and Pascal have seen each other.
Gini has focused on her career, while Pascal's took a nose dive and his marriage crumbled.
They attempt to work together as mature adults and leave the past behind them. That turns out to be easier said than done.
As their investigation heats up, other disturbing facts come to light, such as John's tour in Vietnam and his possible involvement in war atrocities. Also, Gini finds herself walking on eggshells around her former step-mother, whom she maintains a close relationship with, because Mary is close friends with the Hawthorne's.
Gini also find herself the victim of prank phone calls, break ins and other disturbing occurrences that are absolutely linked to the case she is working on.
First of all, let me warn you that this is a lengthy book, weighing in at over 700 pages.
This style of writing in contemporary and romantic suspense is not often attempted these days.
The story twist and turns and little by little facts are revealed that take us into the lurid world of John and Lise Hawthorne. Gini's relationship with her father also becomes intertwined in the case.
Shadowy figures emerge that may or may not be trustworthy. Gini becomes a pawn in the head games of John Hawthorne, his father, her father, her boss, and even to some extent Pascal.
The story was typical of the time period it was written in. The sexual perversions of politicians and the twisty plot lines, the locations, the job challenges for a female reporter, and the way men regarded career women.
While the book was interesting and I did want to know what was going to happen next, and was curious where all this would lead, I must confess to finding it hard to stay focused at times. The book was just over long. I think it could have been edited down a couple of hundred pages and we would never know the pages were missing.
The chemistry between Pascal and Gini was lukewarm. Pascal's marriage was of zero interest to me, since it didn't have a darn thing to do with the story line. Too many years had passed and Pascal and Gini were very different people. There were a few sparks here and there, but I got very aggravated at Pascal when he tried to manipulate Gini, even if he was trying to protect her.
I liked the book, but I didn't love it. I do recommend it to those who enjoy romantic suspense, even if the style is a bit outdated. I have never, to my knowledge, read anything by this author. I did select a couple of her other books, that were not as long, to try out. They sound interesting. So, although I had a few issues with the book, I am still interested in seeing what else the author has written and giving it a try.
Overall this one gets a C+.
November 25, 2019
Gini is a journalist who is trying to follow in her dad's footsteps, and cover real and meaningful stories, but her editor keeps giving her trashy stories to cover. Then, she gets called in to work on an investigative piece about John Hawthorne, a politician who was thought to be the next American president, who very suddenly took a job in London as an ambassador for reasons unknown. John Hawthorne's wife has approached the newspaper to ask them to expose her husband in his sex scandals, putting a crack in the perfect public facade of their marriage.
Four packages are sent out by an anonymous sender: one to London, one to Paris, one to Venice, one to New York. Each with a strange item inside, one delivered to someone who is dead. What is the link?
Gini teams up with Pascal, a man from her past, to try and uncover the truth, but they have to contend with deadly threats and lies along the way, with lots of twists and turns.
This one was very long, and yet I enjoyed being wrapped up in it, and enjoyed taking my time with it. Gini was a bit of a dingbat, and I also just had to accepted some sexist parts of the story as being part of the 80s and 90s story telling. If you accept it for what it is: a scandalous, over the top sex scandal-solving 90s novel, then you'll have a good time with it.
Four packages are sent out by an anonymous sender: one to London, one to Paris, one to Venice, one to New York. Each with a strange item inside, one delivered to someone who is dead. What is the link?
Gini teams up with Pascal, a man from her past, to try and uncover the truth, but they have to contend with deadly threats and lies along the way, with lots of twists and turns.
This one was very long, and yet I enjoyed being wrapped up in it, and enjoyed taking my time with it. Gini was a bit of a dingbat, and I also just had to accepted some sexist parts of the story as being part of the 80s and 90s story telling. If you accept it for what it is: a scandalous, over the top sex scandal-solving 90s novel, then you'll have a good time with it.
September 30, 2022
Numerous friends suggested I try on Beauman on for size, so I decided to do just that with
Lovers and Liars.
At first I felt like a mouse in a maze trying to find the prize. Beauman offered loads of twists and turns but in time I was able to narrow down the offending culprits and deduct what was what. Cleverly created to let the reader assume they know what's at the core of the plot and Beauman pulls out of left field with the unexpected and you're at square one figuring out the plot and its perpetrators. The narrative is somewhat sophisticated which makes up for the whopping 500 plus pages, fairly fast read but lulls did rear their ugly head at times. Lovers and Liars consisted of 80% dialog, despite the large amount it was well done. Blending the past romantic involvement with Pascal and Gini was carefully weaved into the main storyline expertly adding an interesting controversial past with motivating factor for a sexy present and future only to highlight the bones of the major sex scandal storyline.
The downfall for me was Gini Hunter. She was all over the place, one minute she was playing the feminist card, the next minute she was as helpless as a kitten up a tree. As far as a journalist, Pascal acted more of a journalist than Gini. Gini should have played photographer and left the investigative journalism to competent Pascal. Another flaw with Gini, she made very poor choices which highlighted the fact she wasn't the most vibrant color in the crayon box. She needs a serious IQ boost, most irritating was her brainless comments and actions. Making Gini less of a scardey cat would have helped loads too. Beauman should have stepped Gini's character up a notch, would have enriched the entire story.
Lovers and Liars is pitched as a romantic thriller, in reality it is a thriller with a small romantic storyline fused. Entertaining and well written but it felt dated. I'm sure this was strong in its day but felt like I was in the 80's without question. Good not great, wouldn't mind reading current material from Beauman's solid writing.
At first I felt like a mouse in a maze trying to find the prize. Beauman offered loads of twists and turns but in time I was able to narrow down the offending culprits and deduct what was what. Cleverly created to let the reader assume they know what's at the core of the plot and Beauman pulls out of left field with the unexpected and you're at square one figuring out the plot and its perpetrators. The narrative is somewhat sophisticated which makes up for the whopping 500 plus pages, fairly fast read but lulls did rear their ugly head at times. Lovers and Liars consisted of 80% dialog, despite the large amount it was well done. Blending the past romantic involvement with Pascal and Gini was carefully weaved into the main storyline expertly adding an interesting controversial past with motivating factor for a sexy present and future only to highlight the bones of the major sex scandal storyline.
The downfall for me was Gini Hunter. She was all over the place, one minute she was playing the feminist card, the next minute she was as helpless as a kitten up a tree. As far as a journalist, Pascal acted more of a journalist than Gini. Gini should have played photographer and left the investigative journalism to competent Pascal. Another flaw with Gini, she made very poor choices which highlighted the fact she wasn't the most vibrant color in the crayon box. She needs a serious IQ boost, most irritating was her brainless comments and actions. Making Gini less of a scardey cat would have helped loads too. Beauman should have stepped Gini's character up a notch, would have enriched the entire story.
Lovers and Liars is pitched as a romantic thriller, in reality it is a thriller with a small romantic storyline fused. Entertaining and well written but it felt dated. I'm sure this was strong in its day but felt like I was in the 80's without question. Good not great, wouldn't mind reading current material from Beauman's solid writing.
October 23, 2013
First of all, I should say that I have read quite a lot of Sally Beauman novels in the past and with my previous experiences, I either loved it or hated it. This is not really the case with this book. This one I am about divided evenly on.
Whilst there is a good plot here and the characters are relatively easy to get to know and even likable, they make some of the dumbest decisions possible and it is hard to respect them--especially the female lead.
If I had to choose a part of this book that I enjoyed more than others it would have been toward the middle when the mystery was the focus of the story.
The sex scenes are graphic and border (in my opinion) on the verge of ridiculous at times. This may be one of those novels that some people will appreciate while others just plain stop reading, due to the nature of these scenes.
What I did like, was the complexity of the plot. The characters each have an interesting background and a viable part in the story. I liked that there were multiple things going on at once and the author still managed to wrap up the loose ends by the finish of the story, although I did feel the ending was a bit pushed.
Overall, for being a longer book, I didn't find myself bored, but I'm not sure that I would rush to read it again. Interesting,for sure.
This review is based on a digital ARC from the publisher (Open Road Media) and provided by Netgalley.
Whilst there is a good plot here and the characters are relatively easy to get to know and even likable, they make some of the dumbest decisions possible and it is hard to respect them--especially the female lead.
If I had to choose a part of this book that I enjoyed more than others it would have been toward the middle when the mystery was the focus of the story.
The sex scenes are graphic and border (in my opinion) on the verge of ridiculous at times. This may be one of those novels that some people will appreciate while others just plain stop reading, due to the nature of these scenes.
What I did like, was the complexity of the plot. The characters each have an interesting background and a viable part in the story. I liked that there were multiple things going on at once and the author still managed to wrap up the loose ends by the finish of the story, although I did feel the ending was a bit pushed.
Overall, for being a longer book, I didn't find myself bored, but I'm not sure that I would rush to read it again. Interesting,for sure.
This review is based on a digital ARC from the publisher (Open Road Media) and provided by Netgalley.
May 27, 2014
I found Lovers and Liars by Sally Beauman an excellent read. I highly recommend it.
September 10, 2021
The world of journalism and politics is a dark yet golden and murky web, isn’t it? In the latter, thirst for power acts as the fuel, and the one who makes their way to the top, can turn this world’s any spot. But in the former, scraping variables from the lives of the latter is the best charge. Delving into these aspects, ‘Sally Beauman’ puts forth ‘Lovers and Liars’.
The story revolves around the lives of a war photographer Pascal Lamartine and a war journalist Genevieve ‘Gini’ Hunter. Both of them are united from different parts of the world, for a story bubbling of scandal, privacy invasion and inky secrets. If Pascal and Gini succeed, the bright reputation of John Hawthorne, one of USA’s most powerful men will see the biggest stakes the world has ever seen. But… There’s more to this than meets the eye.
Who’s actually guilty, who’s the real puppetmaster, what’s the actual truth? That’s for Pascal and Gini to discover, along with what their hearts honestly desire… To re-ignite and bask in the old flame that touched their lives all those years ago, in a war zone; or give it a final closure?
That’s Sally’s story to tell, I suggest you to pay her a visit!
My honest opinion: An extremely intelligent plotline and well articulated story. Full of mystery, investigations, adventure, emotions and tests… A very ideal read for someone with a taste similar to mine. The depiction of various aspects of life is bound to get you evaluating about your own. Although, there were a few parts, mostly related to the viewpoints of Gini, which felt highly disturbing and insensitive to me, as a woman. But rest, would definitely recommend.
The story revolves around the lives of a war photographer Pascal Lamartine and a war journalist Genevieve ‘Gini’ Hunter. Both of them are united from different parts of the world, for a story bubbling of scandal, privacy invasion and inky secrets. If Pascal and Gini succeed, the bright reputation of John Hawthorne, one of USA’s most powerful men will see the biggest stakes the world has ever seen. But… There’s more to this than meets the eye.
Who’s actually guilty, who’s the real puppetmaster, what’s the actual truth? That’s for Pascal and Gini to discover, along with what their hearts honestly desire… To re-ignite and bask in the old flame that touched their lives all those years ago, in a war zone; or give it a final closure?
That’s Sally’s story to tell, I suggest you to pay her a visit!
My honest opinion: An extremely intelligent plotline and well articulated story. Full of mystery, investigations, adventure, emotions and tests… A very ideal read for someone with a taste similar to mine. The depiction of various aspects of life is bound to get you evaluating about your own. Although, there were a few parts, mostly related to the viewpoints of Gini, which felt highly disturbing and insensitive to me, as a woman. But rest, would definitely recommend.
April 5, 2022
It kept me turning pages but I got weary of all the twists and turns and had trouble following.
I did like the detailed descriptions of scenes and characters.
I don't think I would like Gini and Pascal as friends in real life.
I did like the detailed descriptions of scenes and characters.
I don't think I would like Gini and Pascal as friends in real life.
October 27, 2017
It's a few years since I read this book but I remember really enjoying it. The plot is so complicated it makes you feel dizzy!
April 27, 2018
Intriguing. Disturbing. Eerily reminiscent of a famous American political dynasty. 633 paperback pages! The plot line was a maze. I’m undecided whether it was worth the time.
August 2, 2018
I read this on a long flight. It was perfect.
March 1, 2019
saw this 1995 book at library and thought it would be a good beach read.lots of drama but interesting
October 10, 2021
It was an okay read. I did enjoy it, but felt it was very long and drawn out. I liked the storyline and the characters, just now and again, I thought just get on with it.
March 22, 2023
Did not continue past 50 pages.....total waste of time!!!!!!!!!!!!!
November 17, 2023
Read it twice, very much a good read. Will read it again and again. Probably one of my favorite mystery books ever
October 26, 2013
I’ve just finished reading Lovers and Liars, a doorstopper of a retro romantic suspense novel from 1994, written by Sally Beauman, and all I can think of is how easy it is for me to call up info on Beauman and every novel she’s ever written on my smartphone, and yet when the novel was written twenty years ago, only a privileged few had mobile phones, so phoning someone to let them know you were running late when they were off running around somewhere too was not an option. And yet it’s recent enough that, to those with access to the right technology, your every move and breath and word could be tracked and recorded at the very same time you were desperately dialing all possible numbers on a payphone. Beauman takes wonderful advantage of this conundrum (which, at the time, was just life) in a suspenseful novel that delights in separating and stranding the two protagonists and lending a sinister air to every footstep on the street, every crackle of static from a nearby radio or earpiece, every drift of leaves that could instead be fabric brushing against your door.
Gini is a writer for a London paper that’s rapidly becoming a gossip rag. When she’s called in to delve into yet another story that’s beneath her, a sex scandal involving the American ambassador, it’s another step in the wrong direction for her career. But the kicker is that the photographer also assigned to it is someone from her past. From twelve years ago, to be precise, although the memory still torments them both.
Pascal was a war photographer when they met in Beirut and fell rapidly in lust and then love. In recent years he’s devolved into a paparazzo, a waste of his talents. But for most of the intervening years, he had been trying to exorcise Gini’s ghost by throwing himself into the worst possible situations, and in the process building an untouchable reputation.
The reunion shocks them, but they resolve to put the past behind them and investigate the allegations, especially when they learn they’ve both received suspicious packages: a long black glove, soiled, and a set of handcuffs. Someone already knew they were assigned to the story. Someone already knows everything they’ll do before they even do it. And after a few days of working on the story, they suspect that somebody is plotting their moves for them and monitoring their progress. Behind it all is the enigmatic ambassador, John, and his devoted wife Lise. The perfect couple from all appearances, but the cracks are beginning to show. The thing is, it’s hard to tell who is lying, or whether anyone is what they seem. Everyone is holding something back, or twisting the facts, or outright deceiving Gini and Pascal to advance their own agenda.
This story kept me guessing and second-guessing at every turn. And I loved it. Sometimes I would figure out what was going to happen, and I’d be right to some extent, but even then there would be some twist that would turn everything on its head again. The story was gripping every step of the way, and it was made more compelling by the desire that swirled between Gini and Pascal and the complicated emotions their past brings up in others. Nothing is ever as simple as it seems in this story, and the brilliant thing is that no one seems to understand that, because they wouldn’t, would they? Even the telling of past events is suspect and the truth unknowable. And I kind of liked that some things weren’t wrapped up neatly, that there were still a couple of loose threads at the end of the novel. I felt that this was intentional, because in a scandal this complex, some things might not be revealed until well in the future, if ever. At any rate, as long as this book was, I fell quickly into the story and couldn’t wait to learn what new deception would be played on us next. The hint of illicit sex, the underlying devotion between Gini and Pascal, and the entwining of many dark histories made this a complex read as well as a compelling one, although not so complex that you’ll get lost or have to draw charts and tables to keep track of the storyline. Just complex enough to remind you to take nothing at face value.
Lila
Full review at nomdeplumepress.wordpress.com.
Gini is a writer for a London paper that’s rapidly becoming a gossip rag. When she’s called in to delve into yet another story that’s beneath her, a sex scandal involving the American ambassador, it’s another step in the wrong direction for her career. But the kicker is that the photographer also assigned to it is someone from her past. From twelve years ago, to be precise, although the memory still torments them both.
Pascal was a war photographer when they met in Beirut and fell rapidly in lust and then love. In recent years he’s devolved into a paparazzo, a waste of his talents. But for most of the intervening years, he had been trying to exorcise Gini’s ghost by throwing himself into the worst possible situations, and in the process building an untouchable reputation.
The reunion shocks them, but they resolve to put the past behind them and investigate the allegations, especially when they learn they’ve both received suspicious packages: a long black glove, soiled, and a set of handcuffs. Someone already knew they were assigned to the story. Someone already knows everything they’ll do before they even do it. And after a few days of working on the story, they suspect that somebody is plotting their moves for them and monitoring their progress. Behind it all is the enigmatic ambassador, John, and his devoted wife Lise. The perfect couple from all appearances, but the cracks are beginning to show. The thing is, it’s hard to tell who is lying, or whether anyone is what they seem. Everyone is holding something back, or twisting the facts, or outright deceiving Gini and Pascal to advance their own agenda.
This story kept me guessing and second-guessing at every turn. And I loved it. Sometimes I would figure out what was going to happen, and I’d be right to some extent, but even then there would be some twist that would turn everything on its head again. The story was gripping every step of the way, and it was made more compelling by the desire that swirled between Gini and Pascal and the complicated emotions their past brings up in others. Nothing is ever as simple as it seems in this story, and the brilliant thing is that no one seems to understand that, because they wouldn’t, would they? Even the telling of past events is suspect and the truth unknowable. And I kind of liked that some things weren’t wrapped up neatly, that there were still a couple of loose threads at the end of the novel. I felt that this was intentional, because in a scandal this complex, some things might not be revealed until well in the future, if ever. At any rate, as long as this book was, I fell quickly into the story and couldn’t wait to learn what new deception would be played on us next. The hint of illicit sex, the underlying devotion between Gini and Pascal, and the entwining of many dark histories made this a complex read as well as a compelling one, although not so complex that you’ll get lost or have to draw charts and tables to keep track of the storyline. Just complex enough to remind you to take nothing at face value.
Lila
Full review at nomdeplumepress.wordpress.com.
October 19, 2013
Lovers and Liars is a romantic mystery that takes place in England (mostly) during the 1990s (so it was contemporary at the time it was written.) In the story, an English journalist, Gini, and a French photographer, Pascal, join forces on an assignment about a potential political scandal. As they delve deeper into investigations, they find that there is more to the story than they originally thought. With their lives in danger, they are even more determined to find the truth behind the rumors.
The story is written in third person, mostly following Gini and Pascal. At the beginning of the book, there are four parcels that went out internationally – one went to Gini and one went to Pascal. The objects in the parcels are linked to a political scandal surrounding former Senator now ambassador, John Hawthorne. I think the characters are well developed. Throughout the book, you are never quite sure if one of the characters is telling the truth or not to Gini and Pascal. Gini and Pascal have a past that eventually unfolds during the story. Gini was raised by her step-mother in England because her father ignored her; her step-mother and father were divorced. She always wanted to show him that she could do things – such as journalism. Pascal took pictures of war and now handles scandals as well. Both are thrown together after twelve years to cover a scandal. Can their past get in their way or cause a distraction?
One complaint I have of the book is the length. I think it could have been shortened down and still would have been good. At times, I felt like all the twists and turns (making not only the characters doubt themselves, but you as well) could have been condensed. I like twists and turns that keep the reader guessing. However, for the length of the book, it is a little much. The last part of the book definitely picked up pace and had more action. The book is labeled as "thriller" but I think it is more "mystery" instead. Thrillers tend to be a little more fast-paced throughout the book – at least the ones I have read.
I must admit that reading the book set in the 1990s I forgot how unavailable people could be without cells/mobiles. I had to stop myself a few times and say, "No, they can't just call their cell phones. They don't have any!"
Overall, it was a good book. If you like mystery romance novels with hints of scandal, then you might want to try this book.
The story is written in third person, mostly following Gini and Pascal. At the beginning of the book, there are four parcels that went out internationally – one went to Gini and one went to Pascal. The objects in the parcels are linked to a political scandal surrounding former Senator now ambassador, John Hawthorne. I think the characters are well developed. Throughout the book, you are never quite sure if one of the characters is telling the truth or not to Gini and Pascal. Gini and Pascal have a past that eventually unfolds during the story. Gini was raised by her step-mother in England because her father ignored her; her step-mother and father were divorced. She always wanted to show him that she could do things – such as journalism. Pascal took pictures of war and now handles scandals as well. Both are thrown together after twelve years to cover a scandal. Can their past get in their way or cause a distraction?
One complaint I have of the book is the length. I think it could have been shortened down and still would have been good. At times, I felt like all the twists and turns (making not only the characters doubt themselves, but you as well) could have been condensed. I like twists and turns that keep the reader guessing. However, for the length of the book, it is a little much. The last part of the book definitely picked up pace and had more action. The book is labeled as "thriller" but I think it is more "mystery" instead. Thrillers tend to be a little more fast-paced throughout the book – at least the ones I have read.
I must admit that reading the book set in the 1990s I forgot how unavailable people could be without cells/mobiles. I had to stop myself a few times and say, "No, they can't just call their cell phones. They don't have any!"
Overall, it was a good book. If you like mystery romance novels with hints of scandal, then you might want to try this book.
June 4, 2011
Bought it at a book sale, and so far it is a good, light summer read. We all need entertainment now and again.
Well, I have now finished and can warn any and all to pass this one up. It deteriorates terribly toward the end and turns a bit pornographic in places. I couldn't buy the "heroine's" rationalizations at the ending. I'm a bit put out because I realized I had read another of her novels a long time ago, Dark Angel, that was quite gripping until near the end when she obviously decided she had to wrap things up, used the most cliche ending possible, picked it out of thin air (nothing in the novel suggested it ahead of time) and sent me plummeting into despair at having wasted so much time!
Here's hoping I pick the next read a little better.
Well, I have now finished and can warn any and all to pass this one up. It deteriorates terribly toward the end and turns a bit pornographic in places. I couldn't buy the "heroine's" rationalizations at the ending. I'm a bit put out because I realized I had read another of her novels a long time ago, Dark Angel, that was quite gripping until near the end when she obviously decided she had to wrap things up, used the most cliche ending possible, picked it out of thin air (nothing in the novel suggested it ahead of time) and sent me plummeting into despair at having wasted so much time!
Here's hoping I pick the next read a little better.
July 22, 2011
This started out as a fairly promising suspense novel then around the murky middle, at about page 300, that's right, the book is -that- long, I started wondering if her editor had taken a long vacation, & shouldn't someone give her a call in Fiji & let her know that the author was off wandering out in circles somewhere. Then I started thinking: is it really necessary to have -this- much internal dialogue? Maybe I really don't need to know what these characters are thinking at every single moment of the plot. That said, it's a pretty good plot. Just not a 600 page plot.
September 23, 2013
I appreciate that Sally Beauman didn't make this into a two book set, but I did find it to be a bit long. The pacing was somewhat uneven, I lost interest about halfway through and almost didn't finish. I kept with it, and the final resolution was satisfactory. What I liked; the characters. What was just ok; the character's inner dialogue. What needed paring; some of the setting descriptions went on too long for me. As a suspense novel, it had a good premise, and the underlying plot was good, I just wish it had been tightened up a bit.
August 27, 2015
I found this book to be okay, but it didn't wow me at any point. The characters were not particularly likable, and I really want to be able to connect with them better than I was able to in this book. The premise of the storyline was intriguing, but I didn't think it lived up to its potential. I think part of my feelings about the book are due to the time period in which it was originally written. I might have liked it twenty years ago, but it doesn't stand the test of time well. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an ARC in return for an honest review.
February 8, 2015
Sometimes there is a very fine line between an ok book and a great book. This one may have been great but the author dragged it on and on and on. You were finally in such a rush for it to just be finished! John and Lise are your typical 'Kennedy type' politicians with sex and power and manipulative elders. Gina and Pascal are like able but never really got anything accomplished. The book was just ok
September 19, 2016
Lovers and Liars by Sally Beauman is an interesting and provoking novel which shows its time of writing through the character presentation. Gini Hunter is a photojournalist with a mind of her own; Pascal Lamartine, a photographer struggling to keep his life in balance after a failed marriage and a short encounter with a wonderful love. Both are persons in their own right within a story which is full of intrigue and thrills. A provocative book.
June 21, 2018
Great book, I was gripped to the end
This was a great book which had me engrossed from the start. The opening chapter had me intrigued and I was like that throughout the whole book, I kept on changing my mind as to what would happen, the book certainly keeps you guessing the whole way through. I loved the main characters too, they were likeable people. I will definitely be buying more Sally beauman books.
This was a great book which had me engrossed from the start. The opening chapter had me intrigued and I was like that throughout the whole book, I kept on changing my mind as to what would happen, the book certainly keeps you guessing the whole way through. I loved the main characters too, they were likeable people. I will definitely be buying more Sally beauman books.
September 14, 2007
A political blackmailing sex scandal. I loved every second of this book, but could see how some readers might get stuck on the "sex" angle instead of the full plot.
Let's just say this was in one of the only two boxes of books I moved with me to Seattle, and I left about 12 boxes behind in my dads storage.
Let's just say this was in one of the only two boxes of books I moved with me to Seattle, and I left about 12 boxes behind in my dads storage.
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March 13, 2015great literature-no: great read- definitely
A mystery, a love story, political machinations? This book has it all. Sex, cruelty, kindness, friendship? They re all here. Great literature- no. Great read- definitely. I found myself invested in the main characters, unrealistically portrayed in many ways. Perfect for a TV mini- series. Can't wait to read second book of trilogy.
A mystery, a love story, political machinations? This book has it all. Sex, cruelty, kindness, friendship? They re all here. Great literature- no. Great read- definitely. I found myself invested in the main characters, unrealistically portrayed in many ways. Perfect for a TV mini- series. Can't wait to read second book of trilogy.
March 4, 2016
Interesting then too convoluted to hold my attention - one of the main characters, Gini, just got on my nerves - making bad decisions, acting without good reasoning, lacked maturity. The book was too long & dialogue eventually irritated me...I ended up skimming the last 100 pages or so just so I would know the ending. I would try this author again with a book that is more highly rated
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2016
Bought this 2nd hand. Started to read but got the feeling I had read it before.
100+ pages in and I gave up reading, as I knew I had read it before. Given the age of the book, it is highly likely that I read this when I was in my 20's.
DNF this time around.
100+ pages in and I gave up reading, as I knew I had read it before. Given the age of the book, it is highly likely that I read this when I was in my 20's.
DNF this time around.
March 12, 2011
Coinvolgente e torbido, ben scritto e ben sviluppato, anche se a tratti inverosimile.
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August 8, 2013Read 4/99
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