🕵️♀️ Book Review: First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston
A slick, addictive thriller that blends identity deception, psychological tension, and a cat-and-mouse game with high emotional stakes.
Selected as a Reese’s Book Club pick, First Lie Wins marks Ashley Elston’s adult fiction debut—and it’s a knockout. With a massive Goodreads rating of 4.00/5 from over 700,000 readers, the novel has captivated fans with its twisty plot, morally gray heroine, and binge-worthy pacing.
🧠 Plot Overview
Meet Evie Porter—a charming Southern woman with a perfect boyfriend, a cozy home, and a tight-knit group of friends. But Evie Porter doesn’t exist. Her real name is Lucca, and she’s a con artist working for a mysterious handler known only as Mr. Smith.
Her latest assignment? Infiltrate the life of Ryan Sumner, her mark. But as Evie gets closer to Ryan, she begins to question her mission—and her own identity. Flashbacks reveal a traumatic past and a job that’s unlike any she’s done before. With danger closing in and her loyalties unraveling, Evie must decide whether to follow orders or rewrite her own story.
🔍 Why It Works
- Gripping Premise: The idea of a woman living under a fabricated identity, tasked with seducing and deceiving her target, is instantly compelling.
- Strong Female Lead: Evie/Lucca is layered, clever, and emotionally complex—equal parts vulnerable and dangerous.
- Twisty Narrative: The story unfolds through present-day action and flashbacks, keeping readers guessing about motives and endgames.
- Smart Prose: Elston’s writing is breezy yet sharp, with just enough tension to keep the pages turning.
💬 Reader Reactions
- “A deliciously addictive treat… the twists keep coming until the very end.” — The Review Geek
- “Evie Porter is a fascinating character. You’ll question everyone’s motives—including hers.”
- “The ending lands with a wink and a nod. Elston nails the conclusion.” — Kirkus Reviews
Some readers felt the flashbacks slowed the pacing mid-book, and a few wished for more shocking twists. But overall, the consensus is clear: this is a smart, satisfying thriller with emotional depth and a fresh voice.
🏁 Final Verdict
First Lie Wins is a standout psychological thriller that explores identity, trust, and the cost of reinvention. If you love morally ambiguous characters, slow-burn suspense, and stories that keep you guessing, this Reese’s Book Club pick is a must-read.
