This book was almost scary in how it's written! The fact this could absolutely be a real life story is beyond scary. Written in such a gripping way its hard to put down, this one is perfect for any thriller lover!

🌟🌟🌟🌟/5

I received an advanced copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK, and NetGalley. ❤️

This book is how people can be manipulated into thinking things are their fault when in reality they are more than enough. Manipulative people knows no boundaries. I like when others take control of their lives at all costs.

I am very much a mood reader and often need to feel hooked within the first pages of a novel to set the tone for the remainder. Unfortunately, this one did not start off strong for me and I found the characters to drone on annoyingly to the point I didn't care much about anyone or anything. While I was craving suspense, I wasn't getting that edge of your seat feeling. That being said, I also understand that this book has received mostly good reviews and recognize that on my part, it might have been a case of timing and mood.

This was an interesting book. It made you trust nobody. I was invested in the storyline and the ending was brilliant.

Gail Schimmel, the author of "The Aftermath," crafts a gripping narrative in "Never Tell A Lie," a tale that delves into the complexities of friendship and the hidden truths that lurk beneath the surface. With a compelling storyline and well-drawn characters, the novel earns a solid four stars for its exploration of past secrets and the impact they can have on the present.

The story revolves around Mary Wilson, a woman content with her uncomplicated life after a tumultuous marriage. However, a chance discovery of an old postcard shakes the foundation of her past, propelling her into a journey of self-discovery and reevaluation. The invitation to her high school reunion becomes a welcomed distraction, leading her to reconnect with an old classmate, April.

Schimmel skillfully navigates the complexities of friendship, and the bond that forms between Mary and April becomes the focal point of the narrative. As Mary immerses herself in this newfound connection, she discovers that April's life and marriage may not be as perfect as they seem. The author builds suspense by unraveling secrets and creating an atmosphere of uncertainty.

The characters are well-crafted, each with their own layers and complexities. Mary's internal struggle and growing suspicion add depth to the narrative, making her a relatable and compelling protagonist. The dynamics between the characters evolve organically, keeping readers engaged as the plot unfolds.

The pacing of the novel is well-executed, with moments of tension and revelation strategically placed to maintain a sense of intrigue. Schimmel adeptly weaves together past and present, allowing the mysteries of Mary's history and April's life to unfold gradually, keeping the reader guessing.

While the novel successfully explores the theme of trust and deception, some readers may find certain plot twists predictable. Additionally, the resolution of certain conflicts may feel somewhat rushed, leaving a desire for more exploration and closure.

In conclusion, "Never Tell A Lie" is a captivating exploration of friendship, trust, and the secrets that can alter the course of one's life. Gail Schimmel weaves a tale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, questioning the authenticity of relationships and the impact of buried truths. If you enjoy psychological dramas with a focus on human connections, this novel is a worthy addition to your reading list.

I enjoyed the book and couldn't wait to finish it. It was the first book by the author I've read, and I will read more by them in future. Recommended.

This book was everything I look for in a book. It was so exciting. The plot was fantastic. It really had me on the edge of my seat, and my heart racing. It was very well written and flowed well.

I think this was a case of this just not being the book for me vs the book itself. I didn't connect with the characters or the story, but I think it was just not my vibe and that others would enjoy it.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book
.an enjoyable read that hits all the spots. Would.recoommend this one to a friend as it delivers everything promised. Poor Mary is unsure what she has gotten herself into when she attend the reunion and becomes acquainted with an old friend.. the book had me in suspense from beginning to end. One to read

Gripping, twisted and had me hooked from page one. A story set in Johannesburg South Africa ( made me super excited seeing that I am an South African) you will get sucked into a mystery that revolves around friendships, lies and trusting people.

Never tell a lie starts off with the introduction of Mary Wilson, on her way to her 20th high school reunion even though she never really kept in touch with anyone.
Mary is seated to a character we get introduced next, April. They barely knew each other in high school, but reconnect at the reunion as though they have been old friends. After a great reconnection they go out for coffee dates and intertwine into one another lives, families and all. As their friendship and trust grows, Mary can’t help but to suspect something is off with April’s marriage. We also get introduced to various other characters we later get to learn well, and how they impact and influence Mary’s list.

Although tough topics like domestic abuse is named, this was still a quick and light read that made the twists even more impactful.
The writer will have you pointing fingers at so many characters you deem as the culprits only to have your hand sliced off at the final plot twist.

This was absolutely brilliant, and completely recommended if you are a fan of authors like Lisa Jewell.

It has taken me so long to finish this book. I could easily blame it on the reader's block I had in the beginning of the year when I started reading this book but that is not the case.

The book started off on a promising note but by midway I simply just kept reading it at intervals because I didn't want to leave it unfinished. I guess the main reason was I just didn't warm up to most of the characters, the main one being the protagonist Mary Wilson. Even though she is a domestic abuse survivor herself, I felt she was quite judgemental in her views and slow to pick up on the signs of domestic abuse where her friend April is concerned. I felt Stacey, her best friend, and Joshua were much better examples of what good and unconditional friends should be like.

I received an e-Arc of the book from the publisher Amazon Publishing UK and the author via NetGalley.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐💫

‘Never Tell A Lie”was good read. Good characters. Suspenseful. Good book to read on vacation or anywhere. I would definitely recommend this book.

I liked the title of this book so I wanted to see how the title tied into the story. Mary and her friend from high school decide to go to their high school reunion even though they think it will be uneventful.. When they get to the reunion they find they are seated at different tables. Mary is at a table with April whom she barely knew in high school but is feeling a connection at the reunion. They decide to have coffee together the next day to catch up further. They have a great time so decide to have further coffee dates and introduce their children to each other. As the bond grows Mary begins to feel that something is off in April's marriage. There is talk of abuse in this story that may make some uncomfortable. The suspense of the story keeps you guessing and the ending was satisfying. Thank you Netgalley for the arc and I would love to read my books by Gail Schimmel

Well. This book was a rollercoaster ride!!!! I had a really hard time putting it down. Mary is loving her re-connections to high school friends, which led to romance and a new best girlfriend, April. But all is not as it appears. Her friendship with April is oddly one sided - April's. When Mary believes her stories and then has to question whether they are true or not, she puts herself in harms way. Add to this mix she's a single parent of a moody boy and the fact that her mother that she thought was dead actually isn't and is now a part of her life. To say that Mary had a full plate would be an understatement.

I read about 20% of the book before giving up. I found the pace too slow and the characters unengaging.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in return for an honest review.

This domestic thriller had a lot of my favorite troupes in terms of class reunions, questionable narrator, and a "Single White Female" vibe. It was a great read!

I loved this book..New author for me but won't be my last.
I read this book on my breaks at work and kept wishing I could go home and finish it..If your looking for a book that keeps you wanting more, than this is the book for you. The characters were intriguing and likeable..

I really enjoyed this book! I love a good thriller and this one really gave me everything I was looking for. I did feel the ending was a little rushed, but still enjoyed.

I did not enjoy this book - if felt very drawn out and not focused in the right areas. It also felt slow and nothing ever really happened until the end. And then even in the end it was like ok it happened and I’m friends again with her. Just nothing shocking

Gripping! Mary is a widow with a son and a loving, helpful father, living in Johannesburg. When she gets an invitation to go to her 20-year high school reunion she and her best friend decide to go and end up having a great time. She reconnects with a woman who she never really hung out with at school and they become fast friends. They meet often and slowly Mary suspects all is not well with her friend's marriage. She's drawn in more and more until it becomes a bit of a nightmare. Are her friend and her two children in danger from the father/husband?
I really liked Mary and thoroughly enjoyed the first three-quarters of the book. But towards the end I had to suspend my belief a bit, it felt unrealistic and hurried and was slightly disappointed. Nevertheless I enjoyed it enough to order one of her earlier books.