First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston
This is LONG overdue. I first read this book in April of last year. And initially wrote a draft of this in Aug of 2024. Needless to say, it is time.
I loved this book and felt like I really had to do it justice in writing about it. And I never seemed to have the time, so here’s the unjustified version. The one where I just tell you I liked it, and after listening to it on audiobook, I bought it in hardback for my birthday. And then I gifted it to my niece for her birthday.
That says about all you can say about a book.
Now that I’ve significantly hyped it, here’s the original email from last August. (Obviously, the what I’m reading and watching, etc. aren’t current from almost a year ago, but it’s a fun little time capsule. I’m not watching anything fun right now anyway. And what I’m reading, might just be the next email.;))
August 2024
Have you ever been in a reading slump where every book you pick up is a total loser? That’s where I was, in a total book rut, in need of a really good book.
If you’ve been here, you might know that I just finished a month-long book marketing course. After those four weeks, my house was messy, my family grumpy, and my brain fried. But I had work to do. So I pulled up my hair, inserted my earbuds, and prayed for a good book.
Whether it was luck, fate, or really good marketing that had me stumbling upon First Lie Wins, it was an answer to those prayers. And she did not disappoint.
First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston Review
#1 Best Book of the Year (so far)
Is a fast-paced thriller that’ll keep you turning the pages without giving you a heart attack.
I started this book cold, knowing only that it was a Reese pick and looked mystery-ish. That’s the way to read it. I loved every minute of it. If you want a twisty adventure, with just the right amount of suspense, stop reading this NOW. Click the link to buy, or run to your library. (I use Libby) I can’t wait to hear what you think!
Need more convincing? Here’s a taste.
In a quiet southern town, Evie Porter is moving in with her boyfriend of two months. It would seem fast, except it’s what she’s been working for since she first heard about Ryan. Literally. She’s a con artist for hire and getting close to him is her job, but she doesn’t know why. Yet.
In a cat-and-mouse game with her dangerous boss, fake boyfriend, and suspicious colleagues, Evie doesn’t know who to trust or who is ready to stab her in the back.
What I’m Reading
To Capture His Heart by Nancy Campbell Allen. I’ve read the sister book The Matchmaker’s Lonely Heart , and liked it. Fingers crossed this one is good too! (Thanks, Mom, for the rec.)
What I’m Watching
If I’m honest, we’re watching the new season of Bridgerton. The plot hooked me so fast, and I can’t wait to see what happens. It’s easy to fast-forward through the explicit parts. This show is mature.
We also watched Mother of the Bride. It was okay at best. The idea was fun, but they made the mom ridiculous. I hate that. The plot was weak, the chemistry fell flat, and it wasn’t funny. Harsh, I know.
Writing Update
Woo! Breakthrough in Groomed for Death. I subbed an important turning point to my writing group, and they loved it (third time’s the charm). They had some great feedback, and I can’t wait to make it even stronger.
What are you reading?
I’d love to hear from you! JOIN THE NEWSLETTER and email me! I read every email.
xoxo – Lindsay
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