ReadingDNA

Cover of None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell

Is "None of This Is True" Worth Reading?

by Lisa Jewell · 2023 · 384 pages

A chance encounter between two women with the same birthday spirals into obsession, lies, and devastating consequences.

Buy book

Lisa Jewell delivers another expertly crafted psychological thriller that will satisfy fans of domestic suspense while potentially frustrating readers seeking faster-paced action. The story follows Alix Summer, a successful podcaster, who meets Josie Fair at a local café on their shared 45th birthday.

What begins as an intriguing coincidence evolves into something far more sinister as Josie becomes increasingly involved in Alix's life and podcast. Jewell excels at creating an atmosphere of creeping unease, slowly peeling back layers to reveal the disturbing truth about Josie's past and her dangerous fixation on Alix's seemingly perfect family life.

The author's strength lies in her character development—both women feel authentically flawed and complex, with Alix's initial sympathy for lonely Josie gradually transforming into genuine fear. The narrative structure, incorporating podcast transcripts and multiple perspectives, adds depth and authenticity to the storytelling.

However, the pacing may test some readers' patience. Jewell takes her time building tension, and the middle section occasionally feels sluggish as the psychological manipulation unfolds. The payoff is worth it for those who appreciate slow-burn psychological horror, but thriller fans expecting constant action might find themselves checking how many pages remain.

The themes of female friendship, social media facades, and the dangers of oversharing resonate strongly in our current cultural moment. Jewell particularly shines in exploring how women can be both predator and prey, victim and manipulator. This book is ideal for readers who enjoyed 'Gone Girl' or 'The Woman in the Window'—those who appreciate unreliable narrators and twisted relationship dynamics. Skip it if you prefer fast-paced action thrillers or have little patience for psychological complexity. The domestic setting and focus on family dynamics will appeal to fans of Liane Moriarty, though Jewell's tone is considerably darker. Overall, 'None of This Is True' succeeds as a chilling exploration of obsession and deception, even if it occasionally sacrifices momentum for psychological depth.

That's the general verdict — find out if None of This Is True matches YOUR taste.

Build your Reading DNA free →

Similar books