I’m so excited to be able to read and review a fabulous book for you this week. I have never read this author before but she thoroughly convinced me that this would not be my last story by her.
A unique, creepy, and inventive murder mystery you won’t soon forget. Read on for my full review.
Her Dark Lies by J.T. Ellison
Publisher : MIRA; Original edition (March 9, 2021)
ISBN-13 : 978-0778388302
ABOUT:
Jutting from sparkling turquoise waters off the Italian coast, Isle Isola is an idyllic setting for a wedding. In the majestic cliff-top villa owned by the wealthy Compton family, up-and-coming artist Claire Hunter will marry handsome, charming Jack Compton, surrounded by close family, intimate friends…and a host of dark secrets.
From the moment Claire sets foot on the island, something seems amiss. Skeletal remains have just been found. There are other, newer disturbances, too. Menacing texts. A ruined wedding dress. And one troubling shadow hanging over Claire’s otherwise blissful relationship—the strange mystery surrounding Jack’s first wife.
Then a raging storm descends, the power goes out—and the real terror begins…
Her Dark Lies by J.T. Ellison Review
You never know what kind of book you’re diving into if you’ve never read the author before. That’s the beauty of trying out new books and I really was called by the synopsis on this one.
This book was written in a different style than what we’re typically used to reading. For one it’s written in first person, which I like. It really allows you to get inside the characters mind.
Second, it seems to start in the middle of the story. We don’t go through the long courting process of this couple. The story drops us in right before they’re getting ready to get married.
The character development is edgy and I really enjoyed that these are not perfect people. Every character has a dark side that we are introduced to as the story develops. The plot is completely out of the ordinary, but reminiscent of old gothic murder mysteries. Ellison brings highly detailed descriptions of the locations which ties into the rising tension.
Another thing that’s unique about the story is the author is certainly not shy about the high body count. LOL! It certainly was growing by the end of the story and that was a little disconcerting. Realistically I kept wondering how they were going to get out from under that, but that is creative license too!
One thing that that would’ve been great was a little bit more detail in the epilogue. The ending seemed a bit rushed and cryptic which did leave me wanting more. But it also brought out the dark side of our characters and their hidden dark edges buried deep in their psyche of which we get a few more glimpses of as the story wraps up.
Unique, addicting, and so captivating along with some twists you don’t expect. Her Dark Lies is one story you’re not sure who is good and who is evil, if there are even sides to choose. Definitely will read this author again. Well done!
Disclaimer: Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.
Hi! I’m Chris! Just a Midlife Wife sharing about life’s journey; screaming and kicking through it while supposedly aging gracefully…
Focusing on healthy living, low carb & keto, things I am loving right now, and life in general.