Book Review: "None of This Is True" by Lisa Jewell
When I first caught wind of Lisa Jewell’s latest psychological thriller, "None of This Is True," I felt a jolt of excitement that I couldn’t ignore. The premise struck a personal chord—both main characters are turning forty-five, and wouldn’t you know it, I’m marking that milestone this year too. I couldn’t help but think, "Is this coincidence or kismet?" As I flipped through the pages, it was as though Jewell had not only captured my curiosity but also my reality, weaving a tale that felt uncannily relevant.
From the very first page, I was swept away. The story centers around Alix Summers, a popular podcaster, who crosses paths with Josie Fair, an unassuming woman with secrets lurking just beneath the surface. Their first encounter in a pub bathroom—both celebrating their 45th birthdays—sets off a chain of events that are both riveting and unsettling. Jewell expertly builds the tension as Alix, despite her initial reservations about Josie, becomes fascinated and ultimately embroiled in her life.
What struck me most was the intricate design of their relationship. Alix starts recording a podcast about Josie’s life, an offer that feels irresistible yet precarious. I found myself holding my breath as I followed their dynamic; Alix is a smart and engaging protagonist, but there’s an air of mystery about Josie that kept me questioning who could truly be trusted. Jewell delves deep into themes of identity, trust, and the complexities of female friendships, and I found these resonated deeply with me.
The pacing of the novel is absolutely addictive. Just when I thought I had a handle on the direction of the plot, Jewell would throw in a twist that had me gasping. I relished every moment—like peeling back the layers of an onion, the more I uncovered, the more I wanted to know. Jewell’s writing style is both accessible and richly atmospheric, making this a page-turner that’s hard to put down.
There were particular moments that stood out to me. Josie’s descent into Alix’s world felt almost invasive, and as their lives intertwined, I felt as if I were part of this twisted game. I appreciated the way Jewell wove in elements of true crime through the podcast format—making it feel eerily contemporary and realistic. The use of mixed media, especially incorporating sections that mimic a Netflix documentary, was a stroke of genius that added a captivating visual layer to the storytelling.
As I read, I couldn’t help but think about how this would spark conversations in a book club or during my recent buddy read with my niece, Lyss. There is so much to unpack and discuss—from character motivations to the ethical implications of storytelling and podcasting.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend "None of This Is True" to anyone who enjoys fast-paced, psychological thrillers with a dollop of dark intrigue. Whether you’re an avid fan of Lisa Jewell or just stepping into her world, this book promises an unforgettable journey. It left me eager for more of her work and perhaps a little reflective about the intricacies of human connection. "None of This Is True" will undoubtedly be a highlight on my reading list this year, and for that, I am grateful. Thank you to Atria Books for providing me with a copy—I simply couldn’t have asked for a more riveting read!