Lisa Jewell's psychological thriller "None of This Is True" captivates readers with its intricate plot involving a podcaster who becomes entangled in the mysterious life of a stranger, blurring the lines between truth and deception. As reported by multiple reviews, the novel's clever use of podcast transcripts and documentary-style elements adds depth to this gripping tale of manipulation and hidden secrets.
"None of This Is True" by Lisa Jewell centers on Alix Summers, a successful true crime podcaster, and Josie Fair, a seemingly ordinary woman with a dark past. The two women meet on their shared birthday and Josie convinces Alix to feature her story on her podcast. As Alix delves deeper into Josie's life, she uncovers disturbing truths about Josie's marriage to Walter, a much older man, and the alleged abuse within their family. The narrative takes a sinister turn when Josie disappears and Alix's husband goes missing, transforming Alix from storyteller to subject of her own true crime podcast. The plot weaves through themes of manipulation, gaslighting, and the blurred lines between truth and fiction, culminating in shocking revelations about murder and deception123. Jewell's masterful storytelling keeps readers guessing until the end, challenging perceptions of reality and the reliability of narrators throughout the novel45.
Lisa Jewell is a British author renowned for her popular fiction and psychological thrillers. Born on July 19, 1968, in London, Jewell has established herself as a prolific writer with numerous bestselling novels to her name1. Her literary career began unexpectedly when she accepted a friend's challenge to write three chapters of a novel, which eventually became her debut book "Ralph's Party," the UK's bestselling debut novel in 19991.
Jewell's bibliography includes over 20 novels, with notable works such as "Then She Was Gone," "The Family Upstairs," and "Invisible Girl"12. Her latest book, "None of This Is True," was published in July 2023, further cementing her status as a New York Times and Sunday Times number one bestselling author12. Jewell's writing has been translated into over twenty-five languages, reaching a global audience2. She currently resides in Swiss Cottage, London, with her husband and two daughters, continuing to captivate readers with her gripping narratives and complex characters1.
Reader reviews of Lisa Jewell's "None of This Is True" highlight various strengths and weaknesses of the novel. The table below summarizes the main pros and cons mentioned by readers:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Gripping and well-paced plot12 | Very dark themes that may be unsettling for some readers2 |
Clever use of podcast and documentary formats32 | Some characters perceived as naive or frustrating34 |
Unpredictable twists and turns13 | Occasional use of run-on sentences2 |
Well-crafted atmosphere and tension14 | Similarity to other domestic thrillers3 |
Exploration of complex themes54 | Some plot elements may be predictable4 |
Readers generally praised Jewell's storytelling skills and the novel's ability to keep them guessing, while some found certain aspects of the characters or writing style less appealing. The innovative format and dark themes were both highlighted as strengths and potential drawbacks, depending on individual preferences.
Lisa Jewell's "None of This Is True" has garnered significant recognition in the literary world. The table below highlights some of the notable awards and honors received by the novel:
Award/Honor | Details |
---|---|
British Book Award | Winner of the 2024 Crime and Thriller category 1 |
TikTok Book Awards | Book of the Year (UK & Ireland) for 2024 2 |
Bestseller Status | New York Times and Sunday Times bestseller 3 |
The novel's success is evident from its critical acclaim and popularity among readers. Its win at the prestigious British Book Award in the Crime and Thriller category underscores its impact in the genre1. Additionally, the book's triumph at the TikTok Book Awards as Book of the Year for the UK and Ireland demonstrates its wide appeal and resonance with contemporary audiences2. These accolades, combined with its bestseller status, affirm Lisa Jewell's skill in crafting compelling psychological thrillers that captivate both critics and readers alike.
"None of This Is True" stands out among thriller books for its compelling story and fascinating characters, offering book lovers a chance to delve into a complex narrative that blurs the lines between fiction and real life. Lisa Jewell's brilliant novel weaves an entire story that keeps readers on edge, exploring heavy themes through the lens of a podcaster's unexpected encounter. The author's skill in crafting a tense situation involving children and manipulative adults showcases why her novels are so highly regarded. While some readers may find the feeling of unease pervasive throughout the book, it's this very discomfort that makes the psychological thriller so effective12. Jewell's masterful storytelling creates an atmosphere that lingers long after the final page, cementing her status as a top-tier author in the genre34.