Title: Everything But The Truth
Author: Gillian McAllister
ISBN: 978 1 92862 67405
Publisher: Penguin Random House UK
Pages: 405
Source: Private Copy
Do you ever check your partner’s phone? Should you? Are you prepared for the consequences? Everything but the Truth is Gillian McAllister’s stunning breakthrough thriller about deceit, betrayal and one woman’s compulsive need to uncover the truth.
It all started with the email. Rachel didn’t even mean to look. She loves Jack and she’s pregnant with their child. She trusts him. But now she’s seen it, she can’t undo that moment. Or the chain of events it has set in motion. Why has Jack been lying about his past? Just what exactly is he hiding? And doesn’t Rachel have a right to know the truth at any cost?
Official Summary
02 January 2024
I am a little behind with sharing my reviews after taking some time off during December. I read this book in November, my second book by Gillian McAllister and I am enjoying her work. I need to add more of her work to my TBR this year.” Everything But The Truth” is a compelling and riveting thriller that takes you on a rollercoaster ride of deceit, betrayal and the relentless pursuit of the truth. The author explores the intricate web of secrets that can unravel even the strongest relationships. This book will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.
The story begins innocently enough with an email, a simple moment that sets off a chain of events that will change everything for Rachel, the protagonist. The author draws you into Rachel’s world, making you feel the weight of her emotions as she struggles with the discovery that shatters the trust she thought was unbreakable. The author beautifully portrays the complexity of relationships, diving into the psyche of the characters with a keen understanding of the emotional toll that secrets can exact.
The story centres around the age-old question: How well do we truly know the ones we love? Rachel’s hunt for the truth about Jack’s past quickly becomes a gripping exploration of trust and the consequences of peeling back the layers of deception. This book will keep you guessing as the author plants seeds of doubt and suspicion that grow into a garden of shocking revelations.
I love the author’s ability to create multi-dimensional characters that feel authentic and relatable. Rachel is a strong, yet vulnerable protagonist whose internal struggles mirror the doubts and fears that hide within us all. The supporting characters add depth to the story, each one adding to the drama in unexpected ways.
The pace in this book is brilliant. Each chapter builds tension and suspense, driving you forward with a sense of urgency as you keep turning pages, making it nearly impossible to put this book down. The ethical dilemmas and the consequences of seeking the truth at any cost add layers of complexity to the plot, elevating this book beyond a typical thriller. The storytelling is elegant, making this book an engaging and enjoyable read. I loved how the author captured the intricacies of relationships and the way the emotions were dripping off the pages. Her thoughtful exploration of the moral grey areas that define our choices adds to the enjoyment of this story.
This is a brilliantly written thriller with an intricate plot, well-developed characters and thought-provoking themes. You can expect a story that will deliver a lasting impression, leaving you eager to spend more time with this author. If you are looking for a psychological thriller that challenges perceptions and keeps you guessing until the very end – then I would highly recommend adding this book to your TBR.
Also by Gillian McAllister
How to Disappear
What do you do when you can’t run, and you can’t hide?
Lauren’s daughter Zara witnessed a terrible crime. But speaking up comes with a price, and when Zara’s identity is revealed online, it puts a target on her back.
The only choice is to disappear.
To keep Zara safe Lauren will give up everything and everyone she loves, even her husband.
There will be no goodbyes. Their pasts will be rewritten. New names, new home, new lives.
The rules are strict for a reason. They are being hunted. One mistake – a text, an Instagram like – could bring their old lives crashing into the new.
They can never assume someone isn’t watching, waiting.
As Lauren will learn, disappearing is easy. Staying hidden is harder…
About the Author
Author bio from the author’s site
Gillian McAllister has been writing for as long as she can remember. She graduated with an English degree before working as a lawyer. She lives in Birmingham, where she now writes full-time. She is the Sunday Times bestselling author of Everything But the Truth, Anything You Do Say, No Further Questions, The Evidence Against You, How To Disappear and the Richard & Judy Book Club pick That Night. She is also the creator and co-host of the popular Honest Authors podcast.
That’s it, my first review shared for 2024. I look forward to a busy “reading year”, discovering new-to-me authors and sharing my reviews with you. Remember to drop me a line with your reading suggestions, or just leave a comment below.
I have three blog tour stops planned for January as well as another five reviews already completed and waiting to be shared. Not to mention that Alicia has had a brilliant reading December and has put together a small review stockpile for you as well. You do not want to miss any reviews, so please visit regularly. Until next time, happy reading.
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