I tried to read this a couple of times and eventually managed it.
However for some reason I just couldn't get into this book - I did finish and it was a struggle so this just was not for me - sorry!

What a crazy ride. I was continuously changing my mind on what was actually going on. Having watched a lot of criminal minds in short succession there is one thing I would have added but can't say because spoiler.

And you do not want this one to be spoiled!

This is a delightful blend of wit, suspense, and masterful storytelling that hooks you from the first page and doesn’t let go. Elston’s knack for crafting sharp, charismatic characters shines in this clever tale of deception and secrets, making it a standout read in the mystery genre.

The story follows Evie Porter, a con artist with a penchant for bending the truth, who finds herself entangled in a high-stakes game of lies. As the layers of the plot unfold, Elston weaves a tightly paced narrative filled with twists that keep you guessing. Each revelation feels earned, and the stakes grow higher with every page.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its balance of humor and tension. The dialogue crackles with energy, and the protagonist’s wry observations add a refreshing layer of charm to the suspenseful plot. Elston’s ability to create vivid, memorable characters ensures that even the supporting cast leaves an impression.

First Lie Wins is a fast-paced, character-driven story.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for sending a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.

A gripping and fast paced book.
First Lie Wins was different to a lot of thrillers that I’ve previously read and it leave you wondering who is truly the good guy.
I love duel timelines in book, especially thrillers as you end up racing through it and trying to figure out how point A becomes point B before the book reveals it to you.
This was fun and I’d definitely recommend.

I really enjoyed this! I'm not usually one for thrillers anymore however, after recently having my first baby I've needed more fats paced books and this was a treat. It kept me hooked, had a good pace to it, and best of all I didn't correctly guess the ending of the book without the first 20%!! I thought it was a really good story! I would definitely read more from this author

First Lie Wins
This is a speedy, enthralling story where nothing is what it seems. It's aimed at a young, light, frothy audience - I'm none of those things but I really enjoyed it.
Our heroine has a chameleon like ability to take on new persona and identities, mostly moving forward until her emotions become entangled.
She works for the mysterious Mr Smith who we find, isn't necessarily the good guy. What does that make his employee?
As the body count stacks up against her there is still a thread of support that you find yourself willing her on so she finishes up with the home of her dreams and the man she unintentionally loves, however unlikely this outcome seems.
I liked it improbability and all.

The story revolves around two best friends who get caught up in a tangled web of lies after one of them makes a shocking confession. I really enjoyed how Elston built suspense, and the twists kept me guessing throughout the book.

However, I did find the pacing a bit uneven at times. Some plot points felt rushed, which made it hard to fully absorb everything that was happening. That said, I appreciated the depth of the characters and how their friendship was portrayed, adding an emotional layer to the suspense.

I loved this, racing through in just a few sittings. An old school thriller where twists and turns are unexpected and left me guessing!

Lots of twists and turns, very well done on the whole, but the evil master mind was not convincing and I really get fed up with deus ex machina background experts that always save the day.

I couldn't read this as an ebook for some reason so will get it when it comes out! Sorry! (Leaving a 4 star review to be fair.)

A twisty psychological thriller that has a lot going!
Great plot.
Fab characters.
Keeps you guessing throughout.
A satisfying read!
Highly recommend it for readers who like psychological thrillers with a crafty female MC.

I really loved this. Took me right back to the days when psychological thrillers genuinely surprised you every time.

First Lie Wins is definitely a twisty tale with oft surprising turns but the story is backed up by well rounded, intriguing characters who you root for even though literally nobody is completely innocent.

Great writing, an entertaining tale and there's nothing not to love here if this is ons of your favourite genres.

I enjoyed this book. It is a thriller and it sets up the story immediately so you are drawn in straight away.
There were so many alias to get to grips with, and people double crossing each other left right and centre that you have to pay attention throughout.
A sweet ending.

So have not read this as of yet as had one a signed hard copy and am waiting for the right to time to read

Have heard great things though so will forward to this

I enjoyed this book as it goes through the main character Evie and her past alias’ and we learn about her past and how everything has come together to result in her actions for the current job. The chapters flip between past and present to link what is currently happening and her past alias’. I enjoyed the ending too and didn’t see it coming and was a surprise!

First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston is a wild ride! It's packed with twists and turns that keep you guessing. The characters are intriguing, and the plot moves at a good pace, making it hard to put down. Some of the twists are a bit predictable, but overall, it's a fun, suspenseful read that’s perfect if you’re in the mood for a quick thriller.

"First Lie Wins" by Ashley Elston is a fast-paced thriller that follows Evie Porter, a con artist with a web of lies and a mysterious boss, Mr. Smith. The narrative alternates between Evie's present mission and flashbacks to her past, revealing complex layers of deceit and identity. While I found the numerous twists and turns overwhelming, I also appreciated the suspense and character development, as well as the story's tension. Overall, a gripping read with a few predictable elements but remains an engaging thriller.

This book had me gripped from page one, I didn't want to put it down. Well thought out plot. Highly recommend!!

Have you ever read a book you've owned for ages, and kicked yourself for not reading it sooner? First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston was one of those books for me.

I requested it on Netgalley last year, and it has been sitting on my Kindle since last August, waiting for me to pick it (the struggles of a mood reader).

It's a psychological thriller, a genre I haven't read in a while. Our main character is Evie Porter, a con artist who has wormed her way into a relationship with a very wealthy businessman. The time has come for her to meet his circle of friends - some of whom are (rightly) very suspicious of Evie.

But Evie's a professional - she knows exactly how to get people on side, and is not daunted by the prospect of having to prove herself. Quite the opposite - she enjoys it.

All is going to plan - until Evie meets a woman at a party who throws an enormous spanner in the works. Someone's messing with Evie - and in the immortal words of Chandler from Friends, it's time for the messers to become the messees.

As I was reading this, I kept thinking that it felt like something Reese Witherspoon would turn into a TV show - and it was, in fact, a Reese book club pick that has been greenlit for production. I've found Reese's picks to be very hit-and-miss over the past few years, so I don't pay much heed to them anymore, but I do think this will work brilliantly as a TV series (especially with Octavia Spencer co-producing).

I have mutual readers who loved this (Amy) and were less convinced (Aoife) so do be aware, as I've said recently, that my 5* could be your 2* - but having not read a thriller in months, I really enjoyed it. It was fast-paced, twisty, and an easy, enjoyable read. I enjoyed the build-up, the reveals, and was satisfied by the ending. I really enjoyed Evie as a main character and loved getting to find out what her backstory was.

Evie Porter finds herself in trouble and the reasons for this unravel as the story progresses. In many ways this works as the perfect mystery thriller, and will make a pretty good Hollywood film. Sure, there are times when you have to suspend your disbelief, but that's ok, it's still a very enjoyable read.

Thank you to the editor and Netgalley for an advanced e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest and impartial review.