Review: None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell
When I stumbled upon Lisa Jewell’s latest psychological thriller, None of This Is True, my interest piqued not just by the premise but also by sheer coincidence—two women turning forty-five, just like me! I felt an immediate personal connection, almost as if this book was calling out to me. Is there anything more captivating than a gripping tale that mirrors our own life journeys? Jewell’s ability to weave relatable themes into suspense kept me hooked from the very first page, and I must say, it was absolutely addictive!
At its core, None of This Is True explores the complex interplay between perception and reality through the intertwined lives of Alix Summers and Josie Fair. Alix, a popular podcaster, crosses paths with the seemingly unremarkable Josie in a pub bathroom. Their shared birthday sets the stage for a friendship that quickly blurs the lines between benign and bizarre. Josie proposes that she becomes the subject of Alix’s next podcast series, claiming she’s on the brink of life-altering changes. Initially intrigued by Josie’s enigmatic vibe, Alix soon finds herself drawn into a web of secrets that will leave her—and the readers—questioning everything.
What struck me throughout this read was Jewell’s masterful pacing and use of narrative technique. The alternating perspectives reveal layers of complexity, allowing readers to slip into both characters’ minds. I often felt like a detective piecing together clues, never entirely sure who to trust. There were moments when I thought I had everything figured out, only to have the plot twist in a way that left me gasping. The writing is crisp and engaging, with Jewell’s keen insights on human relationships adding depth to the otherwise thrilling storyline.
I truly appreciated the elements of modern technology woven into the narrative, especially how the podcast transformed into a kind of true crime documentary. Jewell navigates this blend of media seamlessly, and it made me ponder about the consuming nature of stories we tell—and those we live. There’s a particular tension in how Josie infiltrates Alix’s life, which mirrors the voyeuristic aspect of podcasts and media culture today. I couldn’t help but reflect on how easy it is to misjudge someone based on first impressions—a theme that resonated deeply with me.
The psychological depth and unpredictability of the plot made me think this book would be perfect for buddy reading or book clubs, sparking rich discussions about trust, friendship, and the façades we wear. Of course, sharing the reading experience with my beautiful niece, Lyss, added an extra layer of joy to the whole affair. It felt like we were unraveling a mystery together!
In closing, I highly recommend None of This Is True to anyone who enjoys fast-paced, tense psychological thrillers. If you’re already a fan of Lisa Jewell, this book is a must-read that will likely find a spot on your favorites list, just as it has on mine. The twists, the relatable characters, and the sharp social commentary made this an unforgettable reading experience. Thank you, Atria Books, for providing such a riveting story. I can’t wait to dive into more of Jewell’s captivating works!