All the Beautiful Lies: A Novel

Harry Ackerson is awaiting his college graduation when he receives news of his father’s untimely death. He rushes home to comfort his stepmother, Alice. The death of his father bears characteristics of foul play, though motive seems non-existent. Harry’s thoughts of his father are mixed with the awkward feelings he possesses toward his stepmother. Harry is attracted to Alice, and this brings on inward feelings of shame. Alice is comforted by Harry’s arrival, as she hopes Harry can assume the duties of running the local bookstore owned by Harry’s father. The present-day story is mixed with the story of Alice’s adolescence. Alice was raised by an alcoholic mother who married an attractive man who Alice took a shine to. Alice’s teen years could best be described as turbulent, as her mother passes away and so does a best friend. Could these have had a damaging effect on her psyche? Meanwhile, Harry can’t seem to quiet his mind’s questions regarding his father’s death. A young woman he spots at the funeral soon turns his world upside down, the sins of the past threatening to unravel the present.

All the Beautiful Lies is the latest of Peter Swanson’s excellent, nail-biting mysteries. The story is quick to grab the reader and keep them in their seats, turning the pages with anticipation and even a little trepidation. A thriller not to be missed.