None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell

Lisa Jewell has done it again, folks. Just when you think you’ve got her figured out, she throws you a curveball that’ll have you questioning everything you thought you knew. In her latest psychological thriller, “None of This Is True,” Jewell takes us on a wild ride through the murky waters of true crime podcasting, blurring the lines between fact and fiction until you’re not sure which way is up.

The Birthday Twins: A Chance Encounter or Something More Sinister?

Our story kicks off with Alix Summers, a popular podcaster celebrating her 45th birthday at the local pub. Enter Josie Fair, a seemingly unassuming woman who just happens to be celebrating her 45th birthday too. Birthday twins, what are the odds? Well, in Jewell’s world, those odds are about to get a whole lot more complicated.

As Alix and Josie’s paths continue to cross, Josie suggests she might make an interesting subject for Alix’s podcast. She’s on the cusp of great changes, she says. And boy, oh boy, is that an understatement.

The Podcast That Ate Manhattan (Or At Least Northwest London)

What starts as a harmless exploration of Josie’s life quickly spirals into a tangled web of dark secrets, hidden agendas, and enough plot twists to give you whiplash. Jewell masterfully weaves together multiple narratives, leaving breadcrumbs for the reader to follow while simultaneously pulling the rug out from under our feet.

The podcast format allows for a unique storytelling structure, with snippets of interviews, real-time reactions, and behind-the-scenes drama all coming together to create a rich tapestry of tension and suspense. It’s like “Serial” meets “Gone Girl,” with a dash of “Black Mirror” thrown in for good measure.

Characters That’ll Haunt Your Dreams (And Maybe Your Waking Hours Too)

Jewell has always had a knack for creating complex, flawed characters that feel painfully real, and “None of This Is True” is no exception. Alix Summers, our protagonist, is a relatable mix of professional ambition and personal insecurities. As she delves deeper into Josie’s story, we see her grappling with her own biases, ethical dilemmas, and the blurred lines between journalism and exploitation.

But it’s Josie Fair who steals the show. Equal parts sympathetic victim and master manipulator, Josie is a character that’ll have you constantly second-guessing your judgments. Is she a misunderstood soul in need of help, or a cunning predator with an agenda of her own? Jewell keeps us guessing until the very end, and even then, you might find yourself wondering if you’ve got the whole story.

The Supporting Cast: More Than Just Background Noise

While Alix and Josie take center stage, the supporting characters are far from forgettable. From Alix’s well-meaning but sometimes oblivious husband Nathan to the enigmatic figures from Josie’s past, each character adds depth and complexity to the story. Pay attention to the details, folks – in Jewell’s world, even the smallest throwaway line can come back to bite you later.

Themes That’ll Make You Question Everything (Including Your Podcast Subscriptions)

At its core, “None of This Is True” is a exploration of truth, perception, and the stories we tell ourselves and others. Jewell deftly tackles themes of identity, the ethics of true crime entertainment, and the dangers of getting too close to your subject matter.

The book also delves into the darker side of human nature, examining how trauma and past experiences can shape our actions and motivations. It’s a stark reminder that sometimes the most monstrous acts can come from a place of deep pain and misguided intentions.

The Writing: Jewell’s Signature Style with a Twist

If you’re a fan of Jewell’s previous works like “The Family Upstairs” or “Then She Was Gone,” you’ll find familiar elements of her trademark suspenseful prose and knack for creating atmosphere. But “None of This Is True” feels like a step up in terms of narrative complexity and thematic depth.

Jewell’s writing is as addictive as ever, with short chapters and multiple perspectives that keep you turning pages well into the night. (Seriously, don’t start this book before bed unless you’re prepared for some serious sleep deprivation.) The pacing is relentless, building to a crescendo that’ll leave you breathless and possibly a little paranoid about your own social media presence.

The Verdict: A Must-Read for Thriller Fans (And Podcast Junkies)

“None of This Is True” is a tour de force of psychological suspense that’ll keep you guessing until the very last page (and maybe even after that). It’s a timely exploration of our true crime obsession and the potential consequences of turning real-life tragedies into entertainment.

If you’re looking for a straightforward whodunit with a neat bow at the end, this might not be the book for you. But if you’re up for a mind-bending journey that’ll challenge your perceptions and leave you questioning the nature of truth itself, then buckle up, buttercup – you’re in for one hell of a ride.

Pros:

• Intricate, multi-layered plot that keeps you guessing
• Complex, well-developed characters
• Timely exploration of true crime podcasting and its ethical implications
• Jewell’s signature atmospheric writing and tension-building

Cons:

• Some readers might find the multiple narratives and timelines confusing
• The ambiguous ending may not satisfy those who prefer clear-cut resolutions

Final Rating: 4.5/5 Podcasting Microphones

Who Should Read This Book?

• Fans of psychological thrillers with complex plots
• True crime enthusiasts (but be prepared to question your hobby)
• Anyone who’s ever considered starting a podcast (maybe reconsider?)
• Readers who enjoy unreliable narrators and morally ambiguous characters

Who Should Skip It?

• Those looking for a light, breezy read (seriously, this one’s gonna mess with your head)
• Readers who prefer straightforward mysteries with clear resolutions
• Anyone prone to podcast-induced paranoia (you’ve been warned)

The Bottom Line: Truth is Stranger Than Fiction (Or Is It?)

Lisa Jewell has outdone herself with “None of This Is True,” crafting a psychological thriller that’s as thought-provoking as it is pulse-pounding. It’s a book that’ll make you think twice about the stories we consume and the ones we tell ourselves. And hey, if nothing else, it might make you a little more cautious about striking up conversations with strangers at the pub. You never know when you might end up as the subject of the next viral true crime podcast.

So grab a copy, clear your schedule, and maybe double-check your podcast subscriptions. Just remember, as you dive into this twisted tale of truth and lies – none of this is true.

Or is it?

If You Liked “None of This Is True,” You Might Also Enjoy:

1. “The Night She Disappeared” by Lisa Jewell
2. “The Family Upstairs” by Lisa Jewell
3. “The Turn of the Key” by Ruth Ware
4. “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides
5. “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins

About the Author

Lisa Jewell is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of nineteen novels, including “The Family Upstairs” and its sequel “The Family Remains,” “Then She Was Gone,” “Invisible Girl,” and “The Night She Disappeared.” Her books have sold over 10 million copies internationally and her work has been translated into over twenty-five languages. She lives in London with her husband and two daughters.