Never Lie by Freida McFadden (Poisoned Pen Press)

"Never Lie" intricately weaves the tale of Tricia and Ethan, a couple en route to explore a potential home. As fate would have it, an unforeseen snowstorm diverts their plans and confines them within the very house they initially set out to inspect. 

Ethan’s fascination with the dwelling blossoms instantaneously, his heart firmly set on acquiring the residence. Contrarily, Tricia harbors a sense of unease and caution due to an intuitive conviction that the house bears a dark history.

The house once belonged to the esteemed psychiatrist, Dr. Adrienne Hale, who mysteriously vanished one day, leaving an air of tragedy and the presumption of her demise. 

Upon arrival, peculiar occurrences begin to unfurl, such as inexplicable lighting on the second floor, and inexplicable movement of a portrait in the depths of the night. Tricia grows increasingly convinced that they are not alone in this enigmatic abode, yet  Ethan attributes these happenings to the conjurings of her imagination, as he remains oblivious to the strange sights and sounds Tricia experiences.

As Tricia uncovers old tape recordings of Dr. Hale’s patient sessions, the novel takes an intriguing turn. The first-person narrative shifts between the perspectives of Tricia and Dr. Hale, infusing the story with rich layers and captivating depth.

True to McFadden’s signature style, the novel oscillates between improbable events, surging tension, and an exploration of the labyrinthine workings of the human psyche. 

Admittedly, the narrative may exhibit moments of inconsistency, with its psychological underpinnings and lavish details of luxury, as with McFadden’s penchant for weaving in mentions of extravagant shoe and clothing brands. 

Nevertheless, the book still offers a riveting read, provided one refrains from nitpicking its flaws and indulges in its thrilling escapism.

3/5