🎭 Book Review: First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston
A slick, addictive psychological thriller where identity is a weapon—and the truth is the ultimate con.
Ashley Elston’s adult debut, First Lie Wins, is a Reese’s Book Club pick and a runaway bestseller that’s captivated readers with its twisty plot, morally gray heroine, and cat-and-mouse tension. With over 700,000 ratings and a solid 4.0/5 on Goodreads, it’s a standout in the 2024 thriller lineup.
🧠 Plot Overview
Evie Porter has the perfect life: a charming boyfriend, a cozy home, and a tight-knit group of friends. But none of it is real. Evie is a fabricated identity, assigned by her mysterious boss, Mr. Smith, whose jobs always come with a target—and this time, it’s Ryan Sumner, the man she’s supposed to manipulate.
As Evie embeds herself deeper into Ryan’s world, she begins to question the mission, her past, and whether she’s still in control. Flashbacks reveal her real name—Lucca—and a history of deception, danger, and emotional scars. But when the job starts to unravel, Evie must decide whether to protect the lie or risk everything for the truth.
🎯 Why It Works
- Compelling Protagonist: Evie/Lucca is clever, conflicted, and layered—equal parts con artist and survivor.
- Fast-Paced Plot: The story unfolds with sharp twists, flashbacks, and escalating stakes that keep readers hooked.
- Moral Ambiguity: The novel explores themes of identity, trust, and redemption without offering easy answers.
- Smart Writing: Elston’s prose is breezy yet taut, balancing suspense with emotional depth.
💬 Critical Reception
- “[A] savvy thriller with an engaging protagonist… gripping and addictive.” — Kirkus Reviews
- “A deliciously addictive treat… you’ll be questioning everything right up to the end.” — The Review Geek
- “Evie Porter is a fascinating character… the ending lands with a satisfying wink.” — The Creative Muggle
⚠️ Minor Critiques
- Some readers felt the flashbacks slowed the pacing mid-book
- A few found the twists underwhelming or the ending slightly rushed
- Still, most agree it’s a smart, satisfying read with a fresh take on the con-artist trope.
🏁 Final Verdict
First Lie Wins is a stylish, character-driven thriller that blends deception, romance, and psychological suspense. If you love books like The Last Mrs. Parrish or Gone Girl, and enjoy morally complex heroines navigating high-stakes secrets, this one’s a must-read.
