November 25, 2024 by Daniela Fleming (‘26)
None of This is True by Lisa Jewell
Welcome to Five Stars, where I’ll share my favorite “five-star” books that had me invested from the very first page, all the way across the finish line. As someone who’s read 75-plus books this year, these are the books that I still think about to this day for their unique premise, suspense, and entertainment value. I couldn’t put them down and almost always finished them in a day or two. Although not everyone enjoys the same genres, I seriously think every fiction lover needs to try these recommendations out.
Today’s book of choice is None of This is True by Lisa Jewell. It’s a fast-paced thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Have you ever read a book where it’s so boring, you couldn’t wait for it to be over? I know I have – but this is not that kind of story. I was so eager to get to the “big reveal” that I almost read this book in one sitting. A good thriller never fails to keep me interested, but this one stood out for its page-clenching suspense, unexpectedness, and plot twists. It can definitely be said that this book is not lacking in jaw-dropping revelations – it’s simply a must read.
The basic premise is as follows – Two women meet in a restaurant and learn they are birthday twins: Alix, a popular podcaster with her life together, and Josie, a seemingly unassuming middle-aged woman. After they initially meet, Alix keeps running into Josie – literally everywhere she goes. Coincidental? Maybe not. Josie claims she’s on the verge of a major life change, asking Alix to feature her on the podcast. Although Josie has an unnerving vibe, Alix can’t help but be drawn in. As Josie reveals more and more about her own background, she increasingly entangles herself in Alix’s life. All of this is just the beginning of Alix and Josie’s now intertwined and complicated lives – let the plot twists begin!
I’ll leave it there because if you’re interested in this novel (for good reason!), you’ll just have to read it yourself and experience this thrilling book on your own. I promise, you will not get bored reading this book – you’ll be mildly disturbed yet extremely entertained nonetheless. For new and experienced readers alike, this book is a whirlwind that keeps you on your toes. I can’t recommend it enough.
With all that said, happy reading!