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The Lie Maker
In this twisty, fast-paced thriller from the New York Times bestselling author of Find You First and Take Your Breath Away, a man desperately tries to track down his father--who was taken into witness protection years ago--before his enemies can get to him.
Your dad's not a good person. Your dad killed people, son.
These are some of the last words Jack Givins' father spoke to him before he was whisked away by witness protection, leaving Jack and his mother to pick up the shattered pieces of their lives as best they could.
Years later, Jack is a grown man with problems of his own. He's a talented but struggling author, barely scraping by on the royalties from his moderately successful first book. So when the U.S. Marshals approach him with a lucrative opportunity, he's in no position to turn them down. They're recruiting writers like Jack to create false histories for people in witness protection--people like Jack's father.
The coincidence is astonishing to Jack at first, but he soon realizes this may be a chance to find his dad. Only there's one problem--Jack's father hasn't made contact with his handlers recently, and they have no idea where he is. He could be in serious danger, and Jack may be the only one who can find him.
But how will he find a man he's never truly known? A man who has done terrible things in his lifetime and made some deadly enemies in the process--enemies who wouldn't think twice about using his own son against him.
Your dad's not a good person. Your dad killed people, son.
These are some of the last words Jack Givins' father spoke to him before he was whisked away by witness protection, leaving Jack and his mother to pick up the shattered pieces of their lives as best they could.
Years later, Jack is a grown man with problems of his own. He's a talented but struggling author, barely scraping by on the royalties from his moderately successful first book. So when the U.S. Marshals approach him with a lucrative opportunity, he's in no position to turn them down. They're recruiting writers like Jack to create false histories for people in witness protection--people like Jack's father.
The coincidence is astonishing to Jack at first, but he soon realizes this may be a chance to find his dad. Only there's one problem--Jack's father hasn't made contact with his handlers recently, and they have no idea where he is. He could be in serious danger, and Jack may be the only one who can find him.
But how will he find a man he's never truly known? A man who has done terrible things in his lifetime and made some deadly enemies in the process--enemies who wouldn't think twice about using his own son against him.
337 pages, Hardcover
First published May 16, 2023
About the author
Linwood Barclay
101 books6,308 followersLinwood Barclay is the #1 internationally bestselling author of seventeen novels for adults, including No Time for Goodbye, Trust Your Eyes and, most recently, A Noise Downstairs. He has also written two novels for children and screenplays.
Three of those seventeen novels comprise the epic Promise Falls trilogy: Broken Promise, Far From True, and The Twenty-Three. His two novels for children – Chase and Escape – star a computer-enhanced dog named Chipper who’s on the run from the evil organization that turned him into a super-pup.
Barclay’s 2011 thriller, The Accident, has been turned into the six-part television series L’Accident in France, and he adapted his novel Never Saw it Coming for the movie, directed by Gail Harvey and starring Eric Roberts and Emily Hampshire. Several of his other books either have been, or still are, in development for TV and film.
After spending his formative years helping run a cottage resort and trailer park after his father died when he was 16, Barclay got his first newspaper job at the Peterborough Examiner, a small Ontario daily. In 1981, he joined the Toronto Star, Canada’s largest circulation newspaper.
He held such positions as assistant city editor, chief copy editor, news editor, and Life section editor, before becoming the paper’s humour columnist in 1993. He was one of the paper’s most popular columnists before retiring from the position in 2008 to work exclusively on books.
In 2004, he launched his mystery series about an anxiety-ridden, know-it-all, pain-in-the-butt father by the name of Zack Walker. Bad Move, the first book, was followed by three more Zack Walker thrillers: Bad Guys, Lone Wolf, and Stone Rain. (The last two were published in the UK under the titles Bad Luck and Bad News.)
His first standalone thriller, No Time for Goodbye, was published in 2007 to critical acclaim and great international success. The following year, it was a Richard and Judy Summer Read selection in the UK, and did seven straight weeks at #1 on the UK bestseller list, and finished 2008 as the top selling novel of the year there. The book has since been sold around the world and been translated into nearly thirty languages.
Barclay was born in the United States but moved to Canada just before turning four years old when his father, a commercial artist whose illustrations of cars appeared in Life, Look and Saturday Evening Post (before photography took over), accepted a position with an advertising agency north of the border. Barclay, who graduated with an English literature degree from Trent University, in Peterborough, Ontario, was fortunate to have some very fine mentors; in particular, the celebrated Canadian author Margaret Laurence, whom Linwood first met when she served as writer-in-residence at Trent, and Kenneth Millar, who, under the name Ross Macdonald, wrote the acclaimed series of mystery novels featuring detective Lew Archer. It was at Trent that he met Neetha, the woman who would become his wife. They have two grown children, Spencer and Paige.
Three of those seventeen novels comprise the epic Promise Falls trilogy: Broken Promise, Far From True, and The Twenty-Three. His two novels for children – Chase and Escape – star a computer-enhanced dog named Chipper who’s on the run from the evil organization that turned him into a super-pup.
Barclay’s 2011 thriller, The Accident, has been turned into the six-part television series L’Accident in France, and he adapted his novel Never Saw it Coming for the movie, directed by Gail Harvey and starring Eric Roberts and Emily Hampshire. Several of his other books either have been, or still are, in development for TV and film.
After spending his formative years helping run a cottage resort and trailer park after his father died when he was 16, Barclay got his first newspaper job at the Peterborough Examiner, a small Ontario daily. In 1981, he joined the Toronto Star, Canada’s largest circulation newspaper.
He held such positions as assistant city editor, chief copy editor, news editor, and Life section editor, before becoming the paper’s humour columnist in 1993. He was one of the paper’s most popular columnists before retiring from the position in 2008 to work exclusively on books.
In 2004, he launched his mystery series about an anxiety-ridden, know-it-all, pain-in-the-butt father by the name of Zack Walker. Bad Move, the first book, was followed by three more Zack Walker thrillers: Bad Guys, Lone Wolf, and Stone Rain. (The last two were published in the UK under the titles Bad Luck and Bad News.)
His first standalone thriller, No Time for Goodbye, was published in 2007 to critical acclaim and great international success. The following year, it was a Richard and Judy Summer Read selection in the UK, and did seven straight weeks at #1 on the UK bestseller list, and finished 2008 as the top selling novel of the year there. The book has since been sold around the world and been translated into nearly thirty languages.
Barclay was born in the United States but moved to Canada just before turning four years old when his father, a commercial artist whose illustrations of cars appeared in Life, Look and Saturday Evening Post (before photography took over), accepted a position with an advertising agency north of the border. Barclay, who graduated with an English literature degree from Trent University, in Peterborough, Ontario, was fortunate to have some very fine mentors; in particular, the celebrated Canadian author Margaret Laurence, whom Linwood first met when she served as writer-in-residence at Trent, and Kenneth Millar, who, under the name Ross Macdonald, wrote the acclaimed series of mystery novels featuring detective Lew Archer. It was at Trent that he met Neetha, the woman who would become his wife. They have two grown children, Spencer and Paige.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,055 reviews
May 24, 2023
3.5⭐️
Jack Givins, a thirty-four-year-old author, is offered a lucrative opportunity with the U.S. Marshals Service to create false histories for those being placed in WITSEC. Though he has had moderate success with his first two books, there seem to be no takers for his third, according to his agent. So when his agents present this offer, not only does Jack see this as an opportunity to earn some money and improve his financial situation but also establish connections to help him trace his father, who was placed in witness protection when was nine years old, leaving him with his mother who refused to enter WITSEC with her husband. Jack who didn't know much about his father’s criminal ties or circumstances that resulted in his father being forced to leave his family, hopes to convince his new contacts into sharing the details of his father’s file and his current whereabouts.
Jack’s new assignment requires he maintain secrecy and not discuss his work with anyone . His girlfriend Lana, who is a reporter, is curious and tries to uncover details of Jack’s new assignment. Seemingly unrelated, Lana is also busy looking into two separate incidents of the disappearance and subsequent deaths of a retired judge and a surgeon of a local hospital, initially presumed to be suicides but the circumstances of their deaths indicate otherwise. As the narrative progresses, it becomes evident there are people from Jack’s father’s past who are still looking for him and will leave no stone unturned in an effort to find him, placing Jack and everyone close to him in danger.
The Lie Maker by Linwood Barclay is a suspenseful thriller with an intriguing premise that kept me engaged till the very end. Plenty of red herrings and twists made for an interesting read. I did like the main characters, the pacing (medium-paced), and the plot structure. I can’t call the plot particularly complex or completely unpredictable, but I did enjoy the build–up and felt the final reveal was well-executed. This is my second Linwood Barclay novel and while I can’t say that I liked this one as much as Take Your Breath Away , it was an enjoyable read.
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Jack Givins, a thirty-four-year-old author, is offered a lucrative opportunity with the U.S. Marshals Service to create false histories for those being placed in WITSEC. Though he has had moderate success with his first two books, there seem to be no takers for his third, according to his agent. So when his agents present this offer, not only does Jack see this as an opportunity to earn some money and improve his financial situation but also establish connections to help him trace his father, who was placed in witness protection when was nine years old, leaving him with his mother who refused to enter WITSEC with her husband. Jack who didn't know much about his father’s criminal ties or circumstances that resulted in his father being forced to leave his family, hopes to convince his new contacts into sharing the details of his father’s file and his current whereabouts.
Jack’s new assignment requires he maintain secrecy and not discuss his work with anyone . His girlfriend Lana, who is a reporter, is curious and tries to uncover details of Jack’s new assignment. Seemingly unrelated, Lana is also busy looking into two separate incidents of the disappearance and subsequent deaths of a retired judge and a surgeon of a local hospital, initially presumed to be suicides but the circumstances of their deaths indicate otherwise. As the narrative progresses, it becomes evident there are people from Jack’s father’s past who are still looking for him and will leave no stone unturned in an effort to find him, placing Jack and everyone close to him in danger.
The Lie Maker by Linwood Barclay is a suspenseful thriller with an intriguing premise that kept me engaged till the very end. Plenty of red herrings and twists made for an interesting read. I did like the main characters, the pacing (medium-paced), and the plot structure. I can’t call the plot particularly complex or completely unpredictable, but I did enjoy the build–up and felt the final reveal was well-executed. This is my second Linwood Barclay novel and while I can’t say that I liked this one as much as Take Your Breath Away , it was an enjoyable read.
Connect with me!
My Blog
The StoryGraph
July 23, 2023
“Your dad's not a good person. Your dad killed people, son”.
These are the last words Jack Givins father said to the 9 year old before being taken away and placed in witness protection. It’s fair to say that there would be some very bad people who would love to kill him, given the chance. Jack begged for his father to take him with him, but Jack’s mother was having none of it. So Jack had to wave goodbye to his father for the very last time.
Jack is now an adult, a struggling author when he’s approached by a U.S. Marshal offering him a very lucrative opportunity, creating new histories for people entering witness protection. Jack sees this as an opportunity to discover the whereabouts of his father. The Marshal finally agrees to help him but the news isn’t good, Jack’s father has completely disappeared, which leads Jack to wonder if his hunters have finally found him and meted out their own form of justice. Jack won’t rest until he finds out the truth. Helping him is his investigative reporter girlfriend, Lana, and although Jack shouldn’t have told anyone about what he was doing, Lana has a way of finding out anything she puts her mind to.
An engaging plot, ( was it believable?) not entirely, but it was full of tension and twists and turns and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
*Thanks to Netgalley and HQ for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review
These are the last words Jack Givins father said to the 9 year old before being taken away and placed in witness protection. It’s fair to say that there would be some very bad people who would love to kill him, given the chance. Jack begged for his father to take him with him, but Jack’s mother was having none of it. So Jack had to wave goodbye to his father for the very last time.
Jack is now an adult, a struggling author when he’s approached by a U.S. Marshal offering him a very lucrative opportunity, creating new histories for people entering witness protection. Jack sees this as an opportunity to discover the whereabouts of his father. The Marshal finally agrees to help him but the news isn’t good, Jack’s father has completely disappeared, which leads Jack to wonder if his hunters have finally found him and meted out their own form of justice. Jack won’t rest until he finds out the truth. Helping him is his investigative reporter girlfriend, Lana, and although Jack shouldn’t have told anyone about what he was doing, Lana has a way of finding out anything she puts her mind to.
An engaging plot, ( was it believable?) not entirely, but it was full of tension and twists and turns and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
*Thanks to Netgalley and HQ for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review
June 28, 2023
If Goodreads still have their favorite author list, Linwood Barclay would be up there for me. The Lie Maker is an excellent thriller with good twists!!
A struggling author Jack Givins is tapped to do a different kind of writing. The pay is really good and Jack gets to do what he loves. What will he be writing? Jack gets to conjure background profiles for WITSEC. Sounds like a fun job if you ask me!
Witness protection is not that distant to Jack. When Jack was a boy his father was taken away to the program alone because his mother refused to give up their lives and leave it all behind. Jack always wonders where his father is.
LB kept me glued again! And guessing and guessing. I like the mystery and I feel Jack's character is "new". Parts of it were intense, especially near a shocking ending that at first pissed me off so much. I was mad and ready to drop a few stars😜, but Barclay is forgiven, I just need to have a bit of patience. Yes, this was gooood! Recommend to mystery-thriller lovers.
Johnathan McClain and Graham Halstead were good narrators but I'm not sure if they need 2 readers, I just didn't see a big difference.
A struggling author Jack Givins is tapped to do a different kind of writing. The pay is really good and Jack gets to do what he loves. What will he be writing? Jack gets to conjure background profiles for WITSEC. Sounds like a fun job if you ask me!
Witness protection is not that distant to Jack. When Jack was a boy his father was taken away to the program alone because his mother refused to give up their lives and leave it all behind. Jack always wonders where his father is.
LB kept me glued again! And guessing and guessing. I like the mystery and I feel Jack's character is "new". Parts of it were intense, especially near a shocking ending that at first pissed me off so much. I was mad and ready to drop a few stars😜, but Barclay is forgiven, I just need to have a bit of patience. Yes, this was gooood! Recommend to mystery-thriller lovers.
Johnathan McClain and Graham Halstead were good narrators but I'm not sure if they need 2 readers, I just didn't see a big difference.
July 15, 2023
Jack was 9 years old when his father said goodbye to him as he left for the government’s Witness Protection Program.
Excerpt :
He reached around into his back pocket and pulled out his wallet. A simple billfold made of brown leather. He opened it up briefly, exposing a couple of bills. A ten and a five.
“There’s a few bucks in there,” he said. “Enough for some comics or ice cream or something.”
He took his son’s hand and placed the wallet in it. The boy studied it, like it was some strange, unidentifiable artifact.
“What about your driver���s license?” the boy asked.
“They’ll get me a new one of those. New Social Security card, too, probably even a library card. Along with my new name, whatever it turns out to be.”
“You won’t be Dad anymore?”
The man looked as though he might crumble. He took a moment.
“I’ll always be Dad,” he said. He folded the child’s fingers around the wallet. “You hold on tight to it, just in case. You never know, maybe one day I’ll come back for it.”
Now:
Jack is a struggling author and his third book has been rejected. So when the U.S Marshalls approach him with a lucrative job offer-writing the back stories for people who are about to go off grid in the Witness Protection Program, he sees it as not only an opportunity to earn some money, but also as a way to possibly get information about his Dad, and maybe reconnect with him.
But, how can he find a man he’s never truly known?
Jack and his investigative reporter girlfriend, Lana, are likable and believable characters who you can root for, and unlike the last two thrillers that I read, this one delivered an ORIGINAL PREMISE, which was ENTERTAINING from the very first page through the last one.
Full of suspense, it managed to SURPRISE me more than once, and it had an adrenaline finish like one you might find in the movie theater! 🍿
No hesitation in recommending this one!
AVAILABLE NOW!
Thank You to the Chandler Public Library system for the loan!
Excerpt :
He reached around into his back pocket and pulled out his wallet. A simple billfold made of brown leather. He opened it up briefly, exposing a couple of bills. A ten and a five.
“There’s a few bucks in there,” he said. “Enough for some comics or ice cream or something.”
He took his son’s hand and placed the wallet in it. The boy studied it, like it was some strange, unidentifiable artifact.
“What about your driver���s license?” the boy asked.
“They’ll get me a new one of those. New Social Security card, too, probably even a library card. Along with my new name, whatever it turns out to be.”
“You won’t be Dad anymore?”
The man looked as though he might crumble. He took a moment.
“I’ll always be Dad,” he said. He folded the child’s fingers around the wallet. “You hold on tight to it, just in case. You never know, maybe one day I’ll come back for it.”
Now:
Jack is a struggling author and his third book has been rejected. So when the U.S Marshalls approach him with a lucrative job offer-writing the back stories for people who are about to go off grid in the Witness Protection Program, he sees it as not only an opportunity to earn some money, but also as a way to possibly get information about his Dad, and maybe reconnect with him.
But, how can he find a man he’s never truly known?
Jack and his investigative reporter girlfriend, Lana, are likable and believable characters who you can root for, and unlike the last two thrillers that I read, this one delivered an ORIGINAL PREMISE, which was ENTERTAINING from the very first page through the last one.
Full of suspense, it managed to SURPRISE me more than once, and it had an adrenaline finish like one you might find in the movie theater! 🍿
No hesitation in recommending this one!
AVAILABLE NOW!
Thank You to the Chandler Public Library system for the loan!
May 25, 2023
3.5 stars, rounded up
I always enjoy Barclay's books for their suspenseful thrills and engaging plots, and this one delivers both.
Jack Givins is an author with two mediocre books under his belt, and his agent is shopping for a place for the third. Meanwhile, he is given the opportunity by the US Marshals service to write back stories for those in the WITSEC program who have been given the opportunity to live a new life. The interesting part? Jack's own father entered the program when Jack was a kid (his mother refused for she and Jack to join him). There are also some mysterious deaths occurring in the area and Jack's reporter girlfriend Lana has been looking into what is happening.
I liked how everything came together in the end, but I thought the way the back story of Jack's dad and what happened to him could have been revealed much sooner. It's always frustrating when all of the characters know something that the reader does not. Once I had the whole picture, I could relax into the adventure. I enjoyed Jack as a character, and although he's not always the brightest bulb in the drawer, there is something endearing about him.
Is this story believable? Not in the slightest, but the journey is fun. If you like a thriller filled with twists, Barclay is a solid choice. Fans of Harlan Coben and Peter Swanson should pick this one up.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
I always enjoy Barclay's books for their suspenseful thrills and engaging plots, and this one delivers both.
Jack Givins is an author with two mediocre books under his belt, and his agent is shopping for a place for the third. Meanwhile, he is given the opportunity by the US Marshals service to write back stories for those in the WITSEC program who have been given the opportunity to live a new life. The interesting part? Jack's own father entered the program when Jack was a kid (his mother refused for she and Jack to join him). There are also some mysterious deaths occurring in the area and Jack's reporter girlfriend Lana has been looking into what is happening.
I liked how everything came together in the end, but I thought the way the back story of Jack's dad and what happened to him could have been revealed much sooner. It's always frustrating when all of the characters know something that the reader does not. Once I had the whole picture, I could relax into the adventure. I enjoyed Jack as a character, and although he's not always the brightest bulb in the drawer, there is something endearing about him.
Is this story believable? Not in the slightest, but the journey is fun. If you like a thriller filled with twists, Barclay is a solid choice. Fans of Harlan Coben and Peter Swanson should pick this one up.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
October 2, 2023
I have loved Barclay before, but here I found my mind drifting a bit took much while listening to the audiobook. It got better after a while, and I needed to know what would happen next to make sense of it. It was pretty complex and I liked the witness protection angle. The last parts were my favorite, but it was a bit slow in the beginning.
August 3, 2023
Linwood Barclay's latest thriller is entertaining, with the twists he can be relied upon to provide, and set in Boston, Massachusetts, featuring a 34 year old Jack Givins who has 2 books published, but his agent, Harry Breedlove, has failed to secure a publisher for his latest. When he was 9 years old, Jack's father, Michael, a man who admitted to him he had killed, is arrested, joining the witness security programme after agreeing to give evidence against his former boss. His mother refused to go with him, and Jack had to stay with her, but he missed his father terribly, running away from home several times to try and find him. He acquired a stepfather in Earl, a man who had his own issues, but they stayed in touch when his mother died.
Facing financial troubles, his car set on fire, Jack is both intrigued and needs to accept a job offer from the US Marshalls service, one he cannot tell anyone about. He becomes the lie maker, employed for his writing skills, creating believable backgrounds for those in WITSEC trying to build a new life somewhere unfamiliar, without giving themselves away. Jack's girlfriend, journalist Lana Wilshire, can't help herself as she tries to find out what he is doing, at the same time she has suspicions about 2 similar recent deaths that she takes to Detective Florence Knight. Jack is desperate to have the opportunity to talk to his father, asking the Marshall service to make this happen, only to discover his father has recently disappeared, and could be in trouble, having destroyed lives, he has enemies. Can Jack help find his father first to warn him?
It takes a little while before the pacing of this thriller starts to pick up with the added tension and suspense, but it is an enjoyable ride. It does require some suspension of disbelief, but that is so often true of thrillers of this type. This might not be my favourite Barclay novel, but I think many of his fans will appreciate it, Jack makes for an appealing protagonist, although perhaps he does not question the situations he finds himself in enough. There are some great twists and I particularly liked the resourceful Lana and she is incredible in the exciting finale. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
Facing financial troubles, his car set on fire, Jack is both intrigued and needs to accept a job offer from the US Marshalls service, one he cannot tell anyone about. He becomes the lie maker, employed for his writing skills, creating believable backgrounds for those in WITSEC trying to build a new life somewhere unfamiliar, without giving themselves away. Jack's girlfriend, journalist Lana Wilshire, can't help herself as she tries to find out what he is doing, at the same time she has suspicions about 2 similar recent deaths that she takes to Detective Florence Knight. Jack is desperate to have the opportunity to talk to his father, asking the Marshall service to make this happen, only to discover his father has recently disappeared, and could be in trouble, having destroyed lives, he has enemies. Can Jack help find his father first to warn him?
It takes a little while before the pacing of this thriller starts to pick up with the added tension and suspense, but it is an enjoyable ride. It does require some suspension of disbelief, but that is so often true of thrillers of this type. This might not be my favourite Barclay novel, but I think many of his fans will appreciate it, Jack makes for an appealing protagonist, although perhaps he does not question the situations he finds himself in enough. There are some great twists and I particularly liked the resourceful Lana and she is incredible in the exciting finale. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
June 28, 2023
Another twisty read that kept me on my toes!
Jack Givins needs to publish his third novel, but it was rejected. He is a bit down and out, hasn't had much going on lately and what has gone on is not good! Then his agent presents a fruitful offer💲he can't refuse. It sounds intriguing to him, writing backstories for those who are in the federal Witness Security Program. Ooh, I was also intrigued!
A secret cell phone comes into play, His agent instructs him to answer it because it will be his first contact from the job offer. Details will ensue.
Very clever and well plotted, with plenty of tense moments. The ending entered crazy town, but it was well worth the ticket!
Library loan/ published on May 16,2023
Jack Givins needs to publish his third novel, but it was rejected. He is a bit down and out, hasn't had much going on lately and what has gone on is not good! Then his agent presents a fruitful offer💲he can't refuse. It sounds intriguing to him, writing backstories for those who are in the federal Witness Security Program. Ooh, I was also intrigued!
A secret cell phone comes into play, His agent instructs him to answer it because it will be his first contact from the job offer. Details will ensue.
Very clever and well plotted, with plenty of tense moments. The ending entered crazy town, but it was well worth the ticket!
Library loan/ published on May 16,2023
May 20, 2023
I sing the Beatles' "Don't Let Me Down" whenever a Linwood Barclay book lands on my phone.
WHY?
Even though Linwood Barclay has been one of my go-to authors for over 20 years, some of his recent releases have been disappointing.
Yes, the talented and prolific author Linwood Barclay has let me down before. 😭😢😭
Fortunately, Linwood Barclay did NOT let me down with "The Lie Maker". 😍😀😍
NO LIES: "The Lie Maker" lacked the depth and plot intricacies of Barclay's earlier releases yet, overall, this twisty, fast-paced thriller was a winner.
Although I guessed the major twist early on and the book's last chapter was eye-rolling, the book kept me engaged from start to finish.
Since I am a Massachusetts native, I especially enjoyed the book's Massachusetts setting and Boston humor.
I listened to the audiobook read by Johnathan McClain and Graham Halstead.
Both narrators did an outstanding job with the narration.
A compelling Linwood Barclay title is always a treat and never a letdown.
Shelved as 'read-audiobooks'
July 15, 2023 ** I do not give audiobooks star ratings because I cannot analyze the prose **
Audiobook Rating: fun! | Performance: fine but the 'female' voices were lol
This is the exact type of book that I prefer to listen to rather than read with my eyes. The premise is fun, definitely more movie-esque and 'classically male'. If you liked What Have We Done, you'll most likely vibe with this one... and vice versa (I know a lot of ya'll did NOT vibulate). This book requires yeetage of disbelief, which is par for the course when it comes to Barclay. It's a quick listen that won't elicit any ill feelings as long as you buckle in for the far-fetched ride.
I am fascinated by WITSEC. Wouldn't it be crazy if authors actually did write the backstories for those under witness protection? Which author would YOU pick to write your backstory if you had to 'disappear' and start a new life??? I would go with Candice Fox or Sharon Bolton because they always write such interesting characters.
____________________________
For some sick reason, do you want to hear more of my nonsense? Check out my podcast: Novels & Nonsense streaming everywhere.
Audiobook Rating: fun! | Performance: fine but the 'female' voices were lol
This is the exact type of book that I prefer to listen to rather than read with my eyes. The premise is fun, definitely more movie-esque and 'classically male'. If you liked What Have We Done, you'll most likely vibe with this one... and vice versa (I know a lot of ya'll did NOT vibulate). This book requires yeetage of disbelief, which is par for the course when it comes to Barclay. It's a quick listen that won't elicit any ill feelings as long as you buckle in for the far-fetched ride.
I am fascinated by WITSEC. Wouldn't it be crazy if authors actually did write the backstories for those under witness protection? Which author would YOU pick to write your backstory if you had to 'disappear' and start a new life??? I would go with Candice Fox or Sharon Bolton because they always write such interesting characters.
____________________________
For some sick reason, do you want to hear more of my nonsense? Check out my podcast: Novels & Nonsense streaming everywhere.
July 7, 2023
Years ago, when he’s nine years old, Jack Givins father is taken into witness protection before his enemies can kill him. In the present day, Jack is a struggling author and needs a job, especially as he is having a run of really bad luck. Out of the blue and somewhat bizarrely, his agent gives him a burner phone and tells him an offer is coming his way. Even stranger, it’s from the US Marshals Service service who want him to write back stories for those entering the programme and relocating by Witness Security Protection. Is he interested? Well, since he’s down on his uppers and it pays $1000 a day, what do you think?! Also, maybe, just maybe, he can use this opportunity to track down his much loved father.
When I begin a Linwood Barclay novel I always know that he is so reliable in providing his many readers with a well thought out, fast paced plot which keeps you invested throughout and that is definitely the case here. I really like Jack as a central character, his backstory is a very good one and the direction his career takes provides plenty of scope for the progression of very twisty storyline, a few of which are jaw/floor beauties. Jack’s motives are good, he’s perhaps a tad gullible, but nonetheless he’s caught up in something big. Lana, his girlfriend, is also very likeable, she’s a somewhat bloodhound type of journalist but has plenty of gumption and proves to be extraordinarily resourceful when the chips are down.
The various plot strands begin to connect together cleverly, the lies encountered are biggies providing suspenseful moments, there’s plenty of tension and some well thought out plot misdirection and good red herrings. Yes, I dare say some suspension of disbelief is required but it doesn’t really matter much as the journey is an entertaining and fun one. I really enjoy the dramatic ending too.
Overall, another winner from a terrific mystery/thriller writer whose novels I always eagerly anticipate.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to HQ for a much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
When I begin a Linwood Barclay novel I always know that he is so reliable in providing his many readers with a well thought out, fast paced plot which keeps you invested throughout and that is definitely the case here. I really like Jack as a central character, his backstory is a very good one and the direction his career takes provides plenty of scope for the progression of very twisty storyline, a few of which are jaw/floor beauties. Jack’s motives are good, he’s perhaps a tad gullible, but nonetheless he’s caught up in something big. Lana, his girlfriend, is also very likeable, she’s a somewhat bloodhound type of journalist but has plenty of gumption and proves to be extraordinarily resourceful when the chips are down.
The various plot strands begin to connect together cleverly, the lies encountered are biggies providing suspenseful moments, there’s plenty of tension and some well thought out plot misdirection and good red herrings. Yes, I dare say some suspension of disbelief is required but it doesn’t really matter much as the journey is an entertaining and fun one. I really enjoy the dramatic ending too.
Overall, another winner from a terrific mystery/thriller writer whose novels I always eagerly anticipate.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to HQ for a much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
June 3, 2023
Another unputdownable read from the marvelous Mr. Barclay.
December 27, 2023
3.5 stars
Novelist Jack Givins published two successful books but his agent, Harry Breedlove, says he can't place Jack's third book. Harry has another offer, though. SOMEONE wants to speak to Jack, and this person gave Harry a burner phone to pass on. Jack is to expect a call.
All this mystery intrigues the writer, so when a U.S. Marshall named Gwen phones, Jack agrees to meet her.
Gwen offers Jack a job writing 'fake backgrounds' for people in the witness protection program (called WITSEC). Jack's first assignment is to pen a history for a man called 'Bill.'
Jack insists on meeting Bill so he can write a believable background. With blindfolds and great secrecy, Jack is driven to a safe house to meet the witness. Once Jack gets a feel for Bill's interests and abilities, he does his best to create a credible biography.
All this is very hush hush, and Jack is forbidden to tell ANYONE about this writing job, even his girlfriend, journalist Lana Wilshire.
After penning Bill's false history, Jack confides to U.S. Marshall Gwen that his own father, Michael Donohue, was taken into the WITSEC program twenty-five years ago.
Michael Donohue was the muscle for a shady character named Galen Frohm, who owned a string of cheap motels. Frohm insisted on BIG kickbacks from linen suppliers and other vendors who serviced the motels, and if they protested, Frohm sent Michael to beat them up......or kill them if necessary. Thus Michael was a murderer who had ruined many lives.
When Galen Frohm's scheme came to light, Michael testified against the extortionist, after which Michael entered the WITSEC program. Jack's mother refused to accompany her criminal husband, and she and Jack - who was a heartbroken nine-year-old at the time - severed ties with Michael.
Now Jack would like to see his dad, and he asks Gwen if she can set it up. Gwen says she'll try, and then reports that - shockingly - Michael has disappeared. The WITSEC program has lost track of him. This is bad news all around, because - though Frohm died in prison - some of his people are still around, looking to kill Michael.
Meanwhile, Jack's journalist girlfriend Lana is pursuing two news stories. A judge who was walking his dog suddenly disappeared, as did a doctor on her way home from the hospital. Lana is very interested in both incidents, and she means to find out what happened.
Jack sets out to find his missing father; Lana sets out to investigate what happened to the judge and doctor; and after much intrigue, skullduggery, and danger, all the story threads come together.
Jack is too naïve, and some parts of the book stretch credulity. Still, the story kept my interest, and I'd recommend it to fans of thrillers.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com
August 21, 2023
Jack was only a boy when his father left them. Taken into protective custody, given a new life without his wife and son, Jack's father was sad at leaving his son, but his wife wouldn't go with him. So he departed alone, leaving Jack distraught. Over the years, Jack ran away many times to try to find his father, but he didn't succeed. But one day he was approached by the US Marshals to become a lie maker - to create lives for those heading into witness protection. Jack was a struggling author, with two books under his belt and a third waiting to be accepted. But he'd lost his job, had his car torched and was scratching the bottom of the barrel when he was approached. He said yes.
Jack still wondered where his dad was - he'd had fleeting visits from him over the years and each time was a joy. Now, with his girlfriend Lana an investigative reporter, he risked his boss' wrath and told her what he was doing. Jack asked for her help to find his dad before someone else found him. Lana was working on a mystery case she wasn't sure whether the police had shelved or not. But important people had drowned, and she thought it was too coincidental not to be murder. Were these deaths connected?
The Lie Maker is another gritty, tension filled thriller by Linwood Barclay which I thoroughly enjoyed. Jack was an excellent character, well written and easy to like. With a great plot and some intriguing characters, I have no hesitation in recommending The Lie Maker to fans of the genre.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Jack still wondered where his dad was - he'd had fleeting visits from him over the years and each time was a joy. Now, with his girlfriend Lana an investigative reporter, he risked his boss' wrath and told her what he was doing. Jack asked for her help to find his dad before someone else found him. Lana was working on a mystery case she wasn't sure whether the police had shelved or not. But important people had drowned, and she thought it was too coincidental not to be murder. Were these deaths connected?
The Lie Maker is another gritty, tension filled thriller by Linwood Barclay which I thoroughly enjoyed. Jack was an excellent character, well written and easy to like. With a great plot and some intriguing characters, I have no hesitation in recommending The Lie Maker to fans of the genre.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
May 26, 2023
Lies and some Lying Liars
Review of the HarperAudio audiobook (May 16, 2023) narrated by Johnathan McClain & Graham Halstead, released simultaneously with the William Morrow hardcover (May 16, 2023)
It would get spoilery to discuss much of the plot of The Lie Maker, so best to just stick to the synopsis and not reveal the twists and turns. The protagonist Jack Givens is an author whose angsty novels are drawn somewhat from his own life without his birth father who went into the Witness Protection Program (WPP) after testifying against his crime lord boss. He's having a tough time with his latest book, but suddenly an opportunity falls into his lap to write up fictional biographies and back-stories for the Office of the U.S. Marshals Service (who run the WPP). Suddenly, Jack has a window to possibly re-connect with his lost father, but perhaps he isn't the only person still looking for him?
Adding complications to the plot are Jack's girlfriend, an investigative journalist who is perhaps too interested in what Jack's new secret job really is + a somewhat down-on-his-luck stepfather who drops back into Jack's life needing yet another handout to help bail out his gambling debts. As usual with Barclay, there are a lot of improbables in the plot but it is all well constructed and is a clever entertainment. I think many will see the major twist in advance and then enjoy the satisfaction of being proven correct. A little flattery of the reader never hurts an author's appeal 😊 to their public.
Linwood Barclay was a popular humour columnist in my hometown's Toronto Star newspaper for the early part of his career until 2008. After the breakthrough success of his 5th novel No Time for Goodbye (2007), he became a full time novelist. He is somewhat like Harlan Coben, i.e. the books typically had an ordinary person protagonist who is thrust into the middle of a mysterious situation which they have to resolve.
The reading by co-narrators McClain and Halstead was excellent. The reason for having 2 narrators was due to the story toggling between the father and son plotlines and timelines.
Review of the HarperAudio audiobook (May 16, 2023) narrated by Johnathan McClain & Graham Halstead, released simultaneously with the William Morrow hardcover (May 16, 2023)
It would get spoilery to discuss much of the plot of The Lie Maker, so best to just stick to the synopsis and not reveal the twists and turns. The protagonist Jack Givens is an author whose angsty novels are drawn somewhat from his own life without his birth father who went into the Witness Protection Program (WPP) after testifying against his crime lord boss. He's having a tough time with his latest book, but suddenly an opportunity falls into his lap to write up fictional biographies and back-stories for the Office of the U.S. Marshals Service (who run the WPP). Suddenly, Jack has a window to possibly re-connect with his lost father, but perhaps he isn't the only person still looking for him?
Adding complications to the plot are Jack's girlfriend, an investigative journalist who is perhaps too interested in what Jack's new secret job really is + a somewhat down-on-his-luck stepfather who drops back into Jack's life needing yet another handout to help bail out his gambling debts. As usual with Barclay, there are a lot of improbables in the plot but it is all well constructed and is a clever entertainment. I think many will see the major twist in advance and then enjoy the satisfaction of being proven correct. A little flattery of the reader never hurts an author's appeal 😊 to their public.
Linwood Barclay was a popular humour columnist in my hometown's Toronto Star newspaper for the early part of his career until 2008. After the breakthrough success of his 5th novel No Time for Goodbye (2007), he became a full time novelist. He is somewhat like Harlan Coben, i.e. the books typically had an ordinary person protagonist who is thrust into the middle of a mysterious situation which they have to resolve.
The reading by co-narrators McClain and Halstead was excellent. The reason for having 2 narrators was due to the story toggling between the father and son plotlines and timelines.
May 24, 2023
✰ 4 stars ✰
“We rarely challenge people on their lies unless there’s something big at stake.”
Always up for reading a thriller every now and then, I decided to read The Lie Maker because the blurb intrigued me. I've never read anything by Linwood Barclay before, but after reading this, I am very much curious to check out his other work's, namely the thrillers he's written for children. The opening sequence sets the scene of a young boy watching from afar, the final moments right before agents come by his house to take his father away and enter him into the witness-protection program - for reasons not yet disclosed.
Fast forward years later, and the son, Jack Givins, 34, is a struggling yet promising young writer, who's on the cusp of releasing his next new novel. But, before he has a chance to do that, his agent offers him the choice to pursue another venture - as a 'lie maker' so to speak - someone who creates false identities with substantial backgrounds for people who were in need of starting over to protect themselves. It's a concept so entirely unique and unheard of and one that promises a substantial income, that he immediately decides to take a chance with it. Little does he know that when accepting that offer, he would somehow find himself entangled in a murder plot of revenge - one that unwittingly traces back to the lies of his father and the life that he previously led.
“I was . . . approached. By a representative. Asked to relay their interest and give you the phone.”
“Suppose I just pitch it?” I said, raising the phone in my hand.
“Then you’ll never know,” Harry said. “You’ll never know what the opportunity was, and you’ll never stop wondering, either. The road not taken, that kind of thing.”
Shit. Like some dime-store-thriller writer, Harry had set the hook.”
Darn, I had a good time with this one - even if it did read like a popcorn thriller - with the murders and the constant shift between each killing and flashback - but, what I admired was how the characters' paths very slowly but surely intertwined with each other. 👌🏻👌🏻 We were not limited to only Jack's POV, which, save for the fact that his was the only one in first POV - but, I liked that each character's narration was relevant to the plot. And the slight reveals - I am a sucker for twists and twists done well - always hold a special place in my heart.
True, it was nothing extravagant or something that you would have likely expected - but it was in the steady writing - the little hints that were dropped - the slight detail that if you blinked you would miss the connection till it was spelled out for you. Those little facets made for a very fun and entertaining guessing game till I was able to narrow down the possible list of suspects. How one crucial detail can be overlooked if not seen in clear and proper hindsight - there were definitely two reveals that I really enjoyed - very cleverly done with my jaw dropping at the twist and loving that little chill of thrill that creeps up my spine when it did drop. 😲 I always live for those and I'm so glad there were a few moments where it did happen.
Jack was an interesting protagonist, albeit a little naïve at times - I liked seeing all the different character perspectives, but his was definitely my favorite - there was a very smooth balance between Jack and his father's interactions - his moments with Lana - his conversations with his agent - that very neatly tied up all the many elements of the mystery surrounding his past with his father. And how they all came together in the end - in an action-packed yet believable ride made for some truly quality entertainment. 👏🏻👏🏻
So, while some may say this was nothing above average and even probably highly improbable, I enjoyed it - it was well-written full of suspense and plentiful of lies and surprises, the character's interests and purposes for acting the way that they did very much valid and understandable - and how all the twists culminated towards the end made me once again appreciate the fact that I can still find a thriller that is worth the read. 👍🏻👍🏻
And that author's note at the end - haha, I definitely let out a chuckle at that one. 😉
“I did it all on my own.
Okay, that is a lie if there ever was one.”
“We rarely challenge people on their lies unless there’s something big at stake.”
Always up for reading a thriller every now and then, I decided to read The Lie Maker because the blurb intrigued me. I've never read anything by Linwood Barclay before, but after reading this, I am very much curious to check out his other work's, namely the thrillers he's written for children. The opening sequence sets the scene of a young boy watching from afar, the final moments right before agents come by his house to take his father away and enter him into the witness-protection program - for reasons not yet disclosed.
Fast forward years later, and the son, Jack Givins, 34, is a struggling yet promising young writer, who's on the cusp of releasing his next new novel. But, before he has a chance to do that, his agent offers him the choice to pursue another venture - as a 'lie maker' so to speak - someone who creates false identities with substantial backgrounds for people who were in need of starting over to protect themselves. It's a concept so entirely unique and unheard of and one that promises a substantial income, that he immediately decides to take a chance with it. Little does he know that when accepting that offer, he would somehow find himself entangled in a murder plot of revenge - one that unwittingly traces back to the lies of his father and the life that he previously led.
“I was . . . approached. By a representative. Asked to relay their interest and give you the phone.”
“Suppose I just pitch it?” I said, raising the phone in my hand.
“Then you’ll never know,” Harry said. “You’ll never know what the opportunity was, and you’ll never stop wondering, either. The road not taken, that kind of thing.”
Shit. Like some dime-store-thriller writer, Harry had set the hook.”
Darn, I had a good time with this one - even if it did read like a popcorn thriller - with the murders and the constant shift between each killing and flashback - but, what I admired was how the characters' paths very slowly but surely intertwined with each other. 👌🏻👌🏻 We were not limited to only Jack's POV, which, save for the fact that his was the only one in first POV - but, I liked that each character's narration was relevant to the plot. And the slight reveals - I am a sucker for twists and twists done well - always hold a special place in my heart.
True, it was nothing extravagant or something that you would have likely expected - but it was in the steady writing - the little hints that were dropped - the slight detail that if you blinked you would miss the connection till it was spelled out for you. Those little facets made for a very fun and entertaining guessing game till I was able to narrow down the possible list of suspects. How one crucial detail can be overlooked if not seen in clear and proper hindsight - there were definitely two reveals that I really enjoyed - very cleverly done with my jaw dropping at the twist and loving that little chill of thrill that creeps up my spine when it did drop. 😲 I always live for those and I'm so glad there were a few moments where it did happen.
Jack was an interesting protagonist, albeit a little naïve at times - I liked seeing all the different character perspectives, but his was definitely my favorite - there was a very smooth balance between Jack and his father's interactions - his moments with Lana - his conversations with his agent - that very neatly tied up all the many elements of the mystery surrounding his past with his father. And how they all came together in the end - in an action-packed yet believable ride made for some truly quality entertainment. 👏🏻👏🏻
So, while some may say this was nothing above average and even probably highly improbable, I enjoyed it - it was well-written full of suspense and plentiful of lies and surprises, the character's interests and purposes for acting the way that they did very much valid and understandable - and how all the twists culminated towards the end made me once again appreciate the fact that I can still find a thriller that is worth the read. 👍🏻👍🏻
And that author's note at the end - haha, I definitely let out a chuckle at that one. 😉
“I did it all on my own.
Okay, that is a lie if there ever was one.”
April 6, 2024
Author Linwood Barclay has done it again! He has given us another page-turning, unputdownable thriller with "The Lie Maker". He has become on of my favourite authors!
In this twisty, fast-paced story a man desperately tries to find his father, who was taken into witness protection years ago, before his enemies can get to him.
Excellent writing, a captivating storyline, well-developed good and bad characters and lots of suspense.
Highly Recommended!
In this twisty, fast-paced story a man desperately tries to find his father, who was taken into witness protection years ago, before his enemies can get to him.
Excellent writing, a captivating storyline, well-developed good and bad characters and lots of suspense.
Highly Recommended!
June 14, 2023
I have always been a huge Linwood Barclay fan, but I have to say I was disappointed in The Lie Maker. The pace at the beginning was a lot slower than usual for a Barclay novel - he usually grabs you with the first sentence and doesn't let go until the last one. There were also some plot developments that seemed illogical. I won't ruin the thrill for others by listing my issues, but the main premise that Jack, the hero, had been hired to write background lives for people who were going into witness protection seemed odd. Aside from the security risk of bringing someone who did not have clearance into the mix, it seems more likely the U.S. Marshals who apparently handle the witness protection would depend on computers (AI) for that function.
Jack is the son of a man who disappeared into the witness protection program when Jack was a kid. He has always mourned the loss of his father, but as the story unfolds, it appears that Dad has made a few surprise appearances in Jack's life over the years, which of course would be foolhardy in real life. If you have been set up in a new life at great trouble and expense, you don't go visiting your former life and risk exposure.
The premise was interesting, and I really wanted to read this novel. If you go for the ride, and set your analytical brain on pause, it's still a fun read. But Barclay has been better in other novels.
Jack is the son of a man who disappeared into the witness protection program when Jack was a kid. He has always mourned the loss of his father, but as the story unfolds, it appears that Dad has made a few surprise appearances in Jack's life over the years, which of course would be foolhardy in real life. If you have been set up in a new life at great trouble and expense, you don't go visiting your former life and risk exposure.
The premise was interesting, and I really wanted to read this novel. If you go for the ride, and set your analytical brain on pause, it's still a fun read. But Barclay has been better in other novels.
January 21, 2024
The Lie Maker is a novel by best-selling Canadian author, Linwood Barclay. Just when two-time novelist Jack Givins is jobless, his third novel rejected by his editor, his car has torched and with very little money in the bank, his editor hands him a cell phone that represents an opportunity. It seems the US Marshal Service deems him suitable to create back stories for those protected by witness security.
He meets with Gwen Kaminsky, learns the requirements and accepts an assignment. His girlfriend, Boston Star journalist, Lana Wilshire is curious about his new source of income, but Jack can’t reveal what he’s doing, no matter what her educated guesses land upon. Lana’s digging into possibles is derailed when she reports on the recent, somewhat baffling, drownings of a retired judge and an ER doctor.
When Gwen severely critiques his first draft, Jack asks to meet the witness so he can do a better job, but the experience strikes him closer to home than he expected. He reveals that his own father, a contract killer, went into the program when Jack was just nine. He begs Gwen for contact with the man who used to be Michael Donohue.
She cites numerous reasonable objections, but eventually reveals that the Marshals have lost contact with him. For the sake of Michael’s safety, or perhaps that of the public, if he has returned to his former career, they’re now relying on Jack to trawl his memory for any clues that might lead his father.
One or two things, though, don’t quite add up, and when Lana manages to get hold of a lead to Michael’s whereabouts, Jack borrows her car and heads out on his own, without telling Gwen…
Once again, Barclay gives the reader a very cleverly plotted tale with a hefty body count in which not much suspension of disbelief is required. His main protagonists are smart, resourceful and appealing: Lana proves feisty when the situation requires. Very entertaining crime fiction.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Harlequin Australia HQ Fiction.
He meets with Gwen Kaminsky, learns the requirements and accepts an assignment. His girlfriend, Boston Star journalist, Lana Wilshire is curious about his new source of income, but Jack can’t reveal what he’s doing, no matter what her educated guesses land upon. Lana’s digging into possibles is derailed when she reports on the recent, somewhat baffling, drownings of a retired judge and an ER doctor.
When Gwen severely critiques his first draft, Jack asks to meet the witness so he can do a better job, but the experience strikes him closer to home than he expected. He reveals that his own father, a contract killer, went into the program when Jack was just nine. He begs Gwen for contact with the man who used to be Michael Donohue.
She cites numerous reasonable objections, but eventually reveals that the Marshals have lost contact with him. For the sake of Michael’s safety, or perhaps that of the public, if he has returned to his former career, they’re now relying on Jack to trawl his memory for any clues that might lead his father.
One or two things, though, don’t quite add up, and when Lana manages to get hold of a lead to Michael’s whereabouts, Jack borrows her car and heads out on his own, without telling Gwen…
Once again, Barclay gives the reader a very cleverly plotted tale with a hefty body count in which not much suspension of disbelief is required. His main protagonists are smart, resourceful and appealing: Lana proves feisty when the situation requires. Very entertaining crime fiction.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Harlequin Australia HQ Fiction.
October 4, 2023
Solid 4 / 5
Stayed up late to finish this book, just couldn’t go to bed without getting to the end. But wow, was not expecting the book to go that way but was surprised at the plot and the writing style.
The book follows Jack, his father was whisked off by witness protection service, leaving behind his mom having ruined their future plans. Fast forward years later where Jack has graduated from colleague and is moving from one job to another he is recruited by a US Mashal through his agent to come up with cover stores for those going into witness protection programmes. Jack uses this opportunity as means to locate his dad after he had lost contact with him a few years back. However mysterious deaths appears around Boston and seems to be targeting specific people- seems as though there people go there still trying to get a hold on Jacks dad.
This is one gripping read, I couldn’t stop the book I was hooked on what happened next. I like the writing style as well which helps with the development of the plot. It is unpredictable at points, and twists I did not see coming at all. A easy read, simple plot done correct! This book will not disappoint!
Stayed up late to finish this book, just couldn’t go to bed without getting to the end. But wow, was not expecting the book to go that way but was surprised at the plot and the writing style.
The book follows Jack, his father was whisked off by witness protection service, leaving behind his mom having ruined their future plans. Fast forward years later where Jack has graduated from colleague and is moving from one job to another he is recruited by a US Mashal through his agent to come up with cover stores for those going into witness protection programmes. Jack uses this opportunity as means to locate his dad after he had lost contact with him a few years back. However mysterious deaths appears around Boston and seems to be targeting specific people- seems as though there people go there still trying to get a hold on Jacks dad.
This is one gripping read, I couldn’t stop the book I was hooked on what happened next. I like the writing style as well which helps with the development of the plot. It is unpredictable at points, and twists I did not see coming at all. A easy read, simple plot done correct! This book will not disappoint!
July 27, 2023
Linwood Barclay, the twist maker returns with The Lie Maker. His books are always incredibly wild rides and I am there for it. Are they always believable? No, but that is half the fun with his books, you just never know how they might turn. You know that you are going to get plenty of threads that might not make sense to begin with, but you will then get the ahh ha moment when all the pieces slide into place.
Meet Jack. He is a writer with a past. When he was 10 years old, his father went into witness protection without him and his mother. All he knew was that his father had done bad things and had to go away. Now as an adult , he is given the opportunity to work with the government writing back stories for new witness protection individuals. He hopes it will help him track down his dad, but he gets so much more than he has bargained for.
Thanks to Harlequin Australia and NetGalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. Publishes in Australia on August 31st
Meet Jack. He is a writer with a past. When he was 10 years old, his father went into witness protection without him and his mother. All he knew was that his father had done bad things and had to go away. Now as an adult , he is given the opportunity to work with the government writing back stories for new witness protection individuals. He hopes it will help him track down his dad, but he gets so much more than he has bargained for.
Thanks to Harlequin Australia and NetGalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. Publishes in Australia on August 31st
June 20, 2023
And yet another dud from Barclay. Though, after the last three novels (which were also duds), I'm not expecting anything from here anymore. But it's eerie how an author who always had it down when it came to character development, descriptions and suspense, had degraded into mediocrity and shallowness, and he can't seem to break out of it (or, perhaps, he doesn't want to).
This novel, too, suffers from lack of suspense and intensity, the characters are all cardboard and undistinguishable (which perplexes me, to be honest, seeing that Barclay's forte is writing storing, well fleshed out characters), the writing style is stale and unimaginative (imagine using entire paragraphs to describe something that can be described in a few words, just so you can show off you can describe said something in a myriad of ways, but ultimately- saying the same thing over and over again, only in different ways. What's the purpose of this, really? Well, I guess maybe to cover up the fact the plot itself is so weak and has nowhere to go, so why not fill entire pages with the same repeated descriptions and irrelevant information? Which is so weird for me, because in the past, Barclay always avoided doing these kinds of things).
Ever since discovering Barclay 16 years ago, he was always a mainstay in my library, and I've always recommended him to everyone. But now, sadly, it seems our ways must depart. The last four novels (including this one) have been god-awful ("Look Both Ways" being the worse of the lot), and it seems that this new shallow and mediocre writing style is his new thing, and it's something that is hard to swallow, after years and years of high-quality, top notch writing and novels.
This may by other people's cup of tea, but it's definitely not mine, which is why I'm off this wagon.
This novel, too, suffers from lack of suspense and intensity, the characters are all cardboard and undistinguishable (which perplexes me, to be honest, seeing that Barclay's forte is writing storing, well fleshed out characters), the writing style is stale and unimaginative (imagine using entire paragraphs to describe something that can be described in a few words, just so you can show off you can describe said something in a myriad of ways, but ultimately- saying the same thing over and over again, only in different ways. What's the purpose of this, really? Well, I guess maybe to cover up the fact the plot itself is so weak and has nowhere to go, so why not fill entire pages with the same repeated descriptions and irrelevant information? Which is so weird for me, because in the past, Barclay always avoided doing these kinds of things).
Ever since discovering Barclay 16 years ago, he was always a mainstay in my library, and I've always recommended him to everyone. But now, sadly, it seems our ways must depart. The last four novels (including this one) have been god-awful ("Look Both Ways" being the worse of the lot), and it seems that this new shallow and mediocre writing style is his new thing, and it's something that is hard to swallow, after years and years of high-quality, top notch writing and novels.
This may by other people's cup of tea, but it's definitely not mine, which is why I'm off this wagon.
June 5, 2023
This one just wasn't for me. I probably should have stuck with my first instinct and DNF early on. I liked the premise of a struggling writer getting recruited to write backstories for people in the witness protection program, but when the story took a turn and had the writer looking into his own father's disappearance from wit sec I lost interest. Okay on audio narrated by Johnathan McClain and Graham Halstead (two relatively unknown narrators for me). My favorite Linwood Barclay is still Find you first.
July 6, 2023
A fun thrill ride from the Canadian Harlan Coben… high praise indeed.
August 29, 2023
Although there were alot of characters in this book, it didn't confuse me. This was twisty and exciting and I really enjoyed it. Highly recommend this one. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
May 4, 2024
Linwood Barclay returns following, Take Your Breath Away with his latest, THE LIE MAKER —a twisty thriller of a man desperately trying to track down his father, who was taken into witness protection years ago —before his enemies find him.
Jack Givens' father, Michael, was a hitman and left Jack and his mother years ago to go into witness protection after turning on his boss. The mother did not want to join him and the nine-year-old Jack.
Jack has always wanted to find his father.
Presently, Jack, a struggling author, has problems. When the US Marshals present him with a deal—creating false histories for those in witness protection.
Could this be the chance to find his Dad? Could the bad guys use him to get to his dad?
Jack is not the only one looking for this father.
Clever and twisty, as always, Barclay entertains. Crossing moral lines, the novel changes direction and gives readers some thought-provoking moments.
I have been a fan of Linwood Barclay for many years and have read all his adult books. However, I do not recommend the audiobook. Buy the book instead.
I wish his publisher would PLEASE get new narrators for his books. These narrators: Johnathan McClain and Graham Halstead, were like reading from a script, totally emotionless and flat! I could not get through the first couple of chapters and had to return the audiobook. Please go back to the ones you had for Take Your Breath Away.
I had to switch to the e-book.
AUDIOBOOK: 2 stars
BOOK: 4 stars
OVERALL RANKING: 3.5 Stars
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 3.5 Stars
Pub Date: May 16, 2023
May 2023 Must-Read Books
Jack Givens' father, Michael, was a hitman and left Jack and his mother years ago to go into witness protection after turning on his boss. The mother did not want to join him and the nine-year-old Jack.
Jack has always wanted to find his father.
Presently, Jack, a struggling author, has problems. When the US Marshals present him with a deal—creating false histories for those in witness protection.
Could this be the chance to find his Dad? Could the bad guys use him to get to his dad?
Jack is not the only one looking for this father.
Clever and twisty, as always, Barclay entertains. Crossing moral lines, the novel changes direction and gives readers some thought-provoking moments.
I have been a fan of Linwood Barclay for many years and have read all his adult books. However, I do not recommend the audiobook. Buy the book instead.
I wish his publisher would PLEASE get new narrators for his books. These narrators: Johnathan McClain and Graham Halstead, were like reading from a script, totally emotionless and flat! I could not get through the first couple of chapters and had to return the audiobook. Please go back to the ones you had for Take Your Breath Away.
I had to switch to the e-book.
AUDIOBOOK: 2 stars
BOOK: 4 stars
OVERALL RANKING: 3.5 Stars
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 3.5 Stars
Pub Date: May 16, 2023
May 2023 Must-Read Books
February 12, 2023
Over the years, Linwood Barclay has been more or less what I think of as a reliable author: I mean, if I am searching for something to take me away for awhile, his books are usually able to fill the bill. So when I was offered a copy of The Lie Maker from William Morrow and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review, I was READY!
This one isn’t set in Promise Falls, the peaceful small town which was the setting for several Barclay titles. Apparently, that series, with titles released between ~2008 and 2017, isn’t scheduled to have another title anytime soon. So, it is off to wherever (sorry, setting isn’t a big deal in this one) where we meet Jack Givins. Author of a sort of successful first book, Jack is a struggling author looking for ways to keep making a living from his writing, when he is approached by the U.S. Marshals Service and offered a paying gig writing fictional histories for people in witness protection.
What a coincidence, right? When Jack was young, his father disappeared into witness protection, leaving Jack with just the memory of his last words: “Your dad’s not a good person. Your dad killed people, son.” Jack and his mother struggled over the years, and Jack always wished he could find his dad. After pondering the huge coincidence of the offered job, Jack thinks maybe it could be a way to find his father. It turns out that the Marshals have lost touch with his Dad, so Jack thinks maybe he needs to leap up and save his father? Or something like that!
The challenge comes because he never knew the man, and is flying blind trying to solve the mystery surrounding his family, knowing only that his father apparently was a killer. It’s fun, moves quickly, doesn’t suffer from fuzzy plot points or rely on a deus ex machina resolution. Solid effort. Four stars
This one isn’t set in Promise Falls, the peaceful small town which was the setting for several Barclay titles. Apparently, that series, with titles released between ~2008 and 2017, isn’t scheduled to have another title anytime soon. So, it is off to wherever (sorry, setting isn’t a big deal in this one) where we meet Jack Givins. Author of a sort of successful first book, Jack is a struggling author looking for ways to keep making a living from his writing, when he is approached by the U.S. Marshals Service and offered a paying gig writing fictional histories for people in witness protection.
What a coincidence, right? When Jack was young, his father disappeared into witness protection, leaving Jack with just the memory of his last words: “Your dad’s not a good person. Your dad killed people, son.” Jack and his mother struggled over the years, and Jack always wished he could find his dad. After pondering the huge coincidence of the offered job, Jack thinks maybe it could be a way to find his father. It turns out that the Marshals have lost touch with his Dad, so Jack thinks maybe he needs to leap up and save his father? Or something like that!
The challenge comes because he never knew the man, and is flying blind trying to solve the mystery surrounding his family, knowing only that his father apparently was a killer. It’s fun, moves quickly, doesn’t suffer from fuzzy plot points or rely on a deus ex machina resolution. Solid effort. Four stars
September 28, 2023
Struggling author Jack Givens is desperately in need of a job to tide him over while waiting for his third novel to find a publisher. Out of the blue, he receives a mysterious offer from the U.S. Marshals to create false histories for those people going into the Witness Protection Program.
The irony of this offer, of which the U.S. Marshals are seemingly unaware, is that 25 years previously, Jack’s own father went into witness protection. Michael Donohue was a hit man for Boston crime overlord Galen Frohm, but was offered a reduced sentence and protection for testifying against his former boss.
Jack realises his new job offers the opportunity to track his father down, but then is told he’s gone missing. Although Galen Frohm died during the coronavirus pandemic, is it possible one of his former associates is hoping to avenge him by killing Michael?
As always, Linwood Barclay manages to construct a complex but still easy to follow story. Alternating chapters from the viewpoint of various central characters, but only Jack’s are narrated first person. Yet another fast-paced and intelligent offering from Mr. Barclay.
The irony of this offer, of which the U.S. Marshals are seemingly unaware, is that 25 years previously, Jack’s own father went into witness protection. Michael Donohue was a hit man for Boston crime overlord Galen Frohm, but was offered a reduced sentence and protection for testifying against his former boss.
Jack realises his new job offers the opportunity to track his father down, but then is told he’s gone missing. Although Galen Frohm died during the coronavirus pandemic, is it possible one of his former associates is hoping to avenge him by killing Michael?
As always, Linwood Barclay manages to construct a complex but still easy to follow story. Alternating chapters from the viewpoint of various central characters, but only Jack’s are narrated first person. Yet another fast-paced and intelligent offering from Mr. Barclay.
November 11, 2023
Always ready for a Linwood Barclay novel, I reached for this piece. Barclay never runs out of twist-filled thrillers that put the reader in the middle of the action, providing little time to catch one’s breath. Jack Givins is an out of luck writer looking for his next break. When a mysterious request falls in his lap, Jack is willing to give it a try. Emboldened, Jack asks about his father, who disappeared under government protection. What Jack learns will force him to make some choices that could have dire consequences. Barclay does well to keep things moving and grips the reader’s attention throughout!
Jack Givins always remembers the last time he saw his father. At nine, Jack was told his father was a bad person and was going away. Watching his father slide into a government vehicle and speed away into the distance, Jack was left with so many questions.
Now a grown man and struggling author, Jack has been trying to make ends meet. When his agent hands him a phone with the U.S. Marshals on the other end, Jack is intrigued. They have an opportunity for him that will pad his bank account, while using his writing skills in ways he could not expect. Jack will be writing backstories for those who are whisked into witness protection.
While he impresses his contact in Witness Protection, Jack wants a little more. He wants to reach out to his father, sure that there is an easy way to connect with the man who was his childhood idol. When it turns out that his father has fallen through the cracks, Jack plots a mission of his own to find the man and get the answers he has been waiting to discover.
It has been years, but the truth has a way of turning things on its head. Jack’s curiosity may have consequences, with enemies lurking in the shadows. Jack will have to remain vigilant to protect himself and hopefully does not lead anyone to his disappearing father. Gripping and full of twists, Linwood Barclay does it again.
I have never been left underwhelmed when Linwood Barclay writes. He has all the elements of a great thriller in this piece, using a strong narrative to guide the reader. Full of great pacing and strong themes. Barclay pushes the story along and the reader is thrust into the eye of the storm, engaging with all the pieces that Barclay wants assembled.
Character development is key to this story, as there are many aspects that make things successful. Building the Jack Givins backstory is key, cobbling things together like the protagonist must do in his job. Barclay uses flashback and forward moments to cement his central character’s life. Flavouring the story with other strong characters, Barclay entertains throughout with those who add depth to the story.
The plot development in this novel is stellar, which is what I would expect from Barclay. The story revolves around these twists and builds from there, keeping the reader on edge as things progress. There is a sense of mystery throughout the piece and Barclay produces a strong story that is less than predictable. While these are standalone thrillers, there is a strong connection to all aspects of the piece, keeping the reader coming back for more, I will look for another Barclay thriller soon, as they are always highly engaging.
Kudos, Mr. Barclay, for never failing to impress.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Jack Givins always remembers the last time he saw his father. At nine, Jack was told his father was a bad person and was going away. Watching his father slide into a government vehicle and speed away into the distance, Jack was left with so many questions.
Now a grown man and struggling author, Jack has been trying to make ends meet. When his agent hands him a phone with the U.S. Marshals on the other end, Jack is intrigued. They have an opportunity for him that will pad his bank account, while using his writing skills in ways he could not expect. Jack will be writing backstories for those who are whisked into witness protection.
While he impresses his contact in Witness Protection, Jack wants a little more. He wants to reach out to his father, sure that there is an easy way to connect with the man who was his childhood idol. When it turns out that his father has fallen through the cracks, Jack plots a mission of his own to find the man and get the answers he has been waiting to discover.
It has been years, but the truth has a way of turning things on its head. Jack’s curiosity may have consequences, with enemies lurking in the shadows. Jack will have to remain vigilant to protect himself and hopefully does not lead anyone to his disappearing father. Gripping and full of twists, Linwood Barclay does it again.
I have never been left underwhelmed when Linwood Barclay writes. He has all the elements of a great thriller in this piece, using a strong narrative to guide the reader. Full of great pacing and strong themes. Barclay pushes the story along and the reader is thrust into the eye of the storm, engaging with all the pieces that Barclay wants assembled.
Character development is key to this story, as there are many aspects that make things successful. Building the Jack Givins backstory is key, cobbling things together like the protagonist must do in his job. Barclay uses flashback and forward moments to cement his central character’s life. Flavouring the story with other strong characters, Barclay entertains throughout with those who add depth to the story.
The plot development in this novel is stellar, which is what I would expect from Barclay. The story revolves around these twists and builds from there, keeping the reader on edge as things progress. There is a sense of mystery throughout the piece and Barclay produces a strong story that is less than predictable. While these are standalone thrillers, there is a strong connection to all aspects of the piece, keeping the reader coming back for more, I will look for another Barclay thriller soon, as they are always highly engaging.
Kudos, Mr. Barclay, for never failing to impress.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
April 24, 2023
This author is an auto read for me. So you know I was thrilled for an arc of his newest book! Murder, revenge, betrayal, intrigue, this book had more twists than a roller coaster at six flags! Great work! Loved it. Lana was a bad ass female character who can handle her own. They make a great couple.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an arc of this twisty thriller!
Must read for thriller fans.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an arc of this twisty thriller!
Must read for thriller fans.
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