I love anything by Lisa Scottoline so was thrilled to review this book for Book Galley!
The book starts with "Chris" beginning to teach & coach at a high school in a small town. We learn about a few of the students and their families. And, of course there's a mystery.
This book is a great read. Good character development and an interesting, unique plot.

Quite a page turner! Loved it. These were my initial thoughts after finishing "One Perfect Lie." If you've read my reviews of the author's other stand alones, you will notice that I have a love/hate relationship with Ms. Scottoline's stand alone novels. However, that being said, this book was a quick read, a super page turner and one of my favorites of hers. The plot was beautifully put together and then taken apart. I was surprised at a few of the twists and someday would like to reread it because I feel like I might have missed something! All in all a very readable and likeable book to spend a few days with! Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the pleasure of being able to read this book in return for an honest review.

ONE PERFECT LIE (standalone) Written by Lisa Scottoline

April 11, 2017; 384 Pages (St. Martin's Press)

Genre: suspense, thriller, fiction, mystery

(I received an ARC from the PUBLISHER via NETGALLEY)

Rating: ★★★1/2

I still remember my first Lisa Scottoline novel, The Vendetta Defense, which is the sixth book in the Rosato and Associates series. I loved the main character, Judy Carrier in the legal drama as much as I enjoyed the story and the quirky secondary characters. While the novels in the series are serious for the most part, there is a slight bit of humour that makes it endearing and realistic. As soon as I finished The Vendetta Defense I decided I needed to read whatever else Scottoline had written. I found out that The Vendetta Defense was actually a part of a series so I found the first book, Everywhere that Mary Went. Now I loved Mary DiNunzio and her wacky family and friends. As of today I have read every book by Scottoline, except the nonfiction books she writes with her daughter, and four of her standalone suspense novel (also marketed as "emotional thrillers"). I plan to read those four books but kind of don't want to be caught up with Scottoline. I like the sense of having some books to turn to when I need a Scottoline fix. I generally rate her novels 3-4 stars so was really upset when I read her last standalone suspense, The Most Wanted, and rated it only two stars. Yet, I really enjoyed her latest Rosato & DiNunzio series. So...I was a bit scared going into One Perfect Night but as I started the first chapter I was hooked.

Chris Brennan has been hired as a teacher and coach for a high school, based on his amazing resume and charisma. The only thing is...it is all a lie. Everything Chris says is a lie. He is here looking for one student to help him, and he will pit three friends against each other to get what he wants. One of the three boys is the popular rich and handsome Evan Kostis. He has everything at his fingertips, so would he accept a challenge? His mother, Mindy is busy trying to find out if her husband is cheating on her, so doesn't uncover her son's secrets till it is too late. Second, is the bad boy spiraling out of control, Raz Sematov. After the death of his beloved father his family, older brother and mother, are falling apart. Susan doesn't know how to hold it all together as that was what her husband did. Can she pry out the truth from her boys before they get themselves further in trouble? Lastly, is the good and hardworking Jordan Larkin. His mother, Heather is a single mother trying to earn enough money to make sure her son can go to college. Jordan is getting better at sport and school which threatens his friendship with Raz. Quitting her job, Heather is now around to see what is going on in her son's life and is starting to realize he may be in danger. Secrets and lies will collide as Chris begins his plan...

I apologize if my review is a bit vague. It seems like everything I had an issue with or liked could be a possible spoiler. I am going to try and be careful. I was really engaged in this novel until the first twist. As soon as the first part ended so did the story for me. While the twist wasn't a shock, it also felt too easy. It took the story to another place where I didn't want to see it go. If how everything portrayed in the first part stayed that way it would have gone down a really interesting path, I do understand why the author felt it needed to be this way. I continued reading even though the subject matter was no longer a story line I liked, because I was a bit curious to see how the mystery would end. Scottline is great at revealing things a bit at a time in this book, so you are not wondering where these things were coming from, and how things unfolded. There is also a bit of a romance, but I didn't like the chemistry between these characters and it seemed to be too quick in some ways. I found the novel to be entertaining as the action was quick and would recommend this as a beach read. Or as my dad would say, "it's an action movie...you never question why."

This was a bit of a nail-biter, especially at the end. Well-crafted and intense. I believe this is my first Lisa Scottoline read, and I really enjoyed it. It definitely took some twists and turns I wasn't expecting at all.

Chris Brennan is a liar. He's just moved to town, and applying to become a coach and teacher at a high school. His references are perfect. He's handsome and friendly. He's well-spoken. It's all a carefully crafted lie.

It's soon very clear that Chris is observing the young men in his class. He wants to choose one in particular. He's looking for someone calm and collected, intelligent but easily manipulated... maybe someone without a strong father figure. It's not immediately clear what exactly he intends on using them for. We soon get introduced to three young men that catch his eye and their families. They're friends, but have major differences... and Chris is looking to choose just one.

All of the families have troubles and secrets, which start to come to light. I didn't particularly like a couple of the characters all of the time, but I cared about what happened to most of them enough to get super absorbed in the story.

I'm going to keep this review deliberately vague, because I don't want to give away any major plot points that may count as spoilers. Read it for yourself and find out about the mysterious Chris Brennan!

I received an ARC of this novel from Net Galley and St. Martin's Press, thank you! My review is honest and unbiased.

Another great read from Lisa Scottoline! We know from the very beginning of this story that nothing is as it appears hence the title one perfect lie. What we don't know is the reason Chris Brennan is lying about his identity when he uses his false identity to land a teaching position at the local high school or what he is up to as he tries to choose a student to get close to in order to execute his plan. This book draws you in from the very beginning and keeps you hooked until the very end. This fast paced thriller was the perfect way to lie around on this Thursday afternoon!

I received this e-book One Perfect Lie from St Martin Press publishing for free to read and review. This is the first book I have read by author Lisa Scottoline. I really liked the story line by this author. Its a different plot then what I am use to reading. It had a lot of mystery and drama and even put in a little romance. I think at first I didn't realize how much depth that the character Curt/Chris had. I was trying to determine almost half way through the book which side he was fighting for really glad we didn't have to wait until the end to find that out. But this book will keep you on the edge of your chair until the very end. Even though this book is a work of fiction I could see this story-line happening in today times.. This book makes me need to be aware of my surroundings and what others might be doing. This is a good read I would recommend One Perfect Lie by author Lisa Scottoline

I always look forward to Lisa Scottoline's books and I certainly wasn't disappointed with this one. I admit to feeling rather guilty for liking 'bad guy' Chris in the beginning of the book; he seemed to have no redeeming qualities.

Scottoline's books always have surprise twists and there was a HUGE one in this book. The plot was intense and exciting with characters that were real and likeable.

I don't want to give spoilers - let me just say that readers will NOT be disappointed in this book!!

I received a free copy from NetGalley. It will be hard to review this book without giving anything away but I will try. Prepare to have things changed about 40% of the way through the book. Nice balance of characters and points of view. Great twists and turns with enough action to keep you reading. Lots of current issues without getting political about it. I really enjoyed this one.

Oh my… Lisa Scottoline may have just written my favorite book so far. The twists, turns, the secrets, and the suspense all kept me on the edge of my seat. She wove a plot thick with cover-ups, friendships, and family in a setting that could be Anytown, USA. The reader is able to relate to the characters, feel the fear of those in the know, and hope that the hero will be able to solve the puzzle before time runs out. One Perfect Lie is an amazing psychological thriller.

I enjoyed how book was written in three parts. Step One is the introduction to Chris Brennan. You learn who he is or who he wants you to believe he is. Step Two is where the twists and turns start in and you find out there is more to the story than you original thought. Step Three it all comes together. The action starts and the story comes to a head.

One Perfect Lie is fast-paced and thrilling. Lisa Scottoline has a talent for writing psychological thrillers. I highly recommend picking up your own copy soon.

Thank you John Karle for providing me a copy of the book for an honest review.

Just finished the copy I received thru Net Galley. A good book with a good mystery. I especially enjoyed the twist at the end of step 1. I would highly recommend this book.

The title could refer to the mission of the central character Curt, who we know is living a lie from the beginning of the book, as he creates a perfect cover story with an apparently sinister motive. However, his is not the only deception as the story centres around three young athletes and their families, and at least two of those families give the illusion of a perfect life based on lies, which in time crumble revealing the huge cracks beneath.
I found the story engaging from the very beginning, with well-rounded characters that one could empathise with. This was a thriller with some unexpected twists, fast paced action, family drama and even a little romance. It is another excellent read from Lisa Scottoline.

Let me be up front – I am a huge fan of Lisa Scottoline. I have only read a few in her series, but I have read many of her stand-alone books and a few of her non-fiction books written with her daughter (quite funny) so I’m a little surprised that I’m only giving this 4 stars rather than a perfect 5.

This is the story of a few boys on a high school baseball team with various backgrounds and up bringings. They all have their own part in the story but the main character is their new teacher/coach. There is so much unknown and questionable about him but I really can’t say more without giving away the twists and turns of this page turner.

Part 1 has me hooked, but questioning how the main character could actually be hired to teach and coach at the high school. Then I’m hearing in the news about high school journalists who unmask issues with their new principal’s background, leading to her resignation just a few days later. If it can happen in real life, I can more easily believe it in a book so I continue on, wondering just what is about to happen.

Part 2 immediately has me rethinking everything I just read in Part 1. I thought for sure I knew what was going on and what would come but nope, I was wrong. I had to completely change my mindset and became even more curious as to just what was about to happen.

Then came Part 3. The first half of this part, continued to keep me on edge and wanting to keep turning those pages but then the second half of this part had me questioning reality again. It was still good, but this and the final ending had me changing my rating from a 5 to a 4. I still highly recommend this book, it is a 4 after all. It’s just not my favorite Lisa Scottoline.

Thank you to Net Galley and St. Martin’s Press for an advance copy of this book in return for an honest review. I look forward to them every year so would be more than happy to do this for you again 

Posted on: https://readingbetweenthepagesblog.wordpress.com/
Posted date: 4/12/2017

This is my first book by Lisa Scottoline. The description of the book caught my attention right away, I loved the book cover, and I’m always looking for a good mystery.

Right from the first paragraph I was intrigued. Chris is applying for a teaching job but he isn’t as he appears to be. He gets the job and befriends three of his students, Raz, Jordan, and Evan, and plans on using one of them – for what, we don’t know. Along with learning about the lives of these three boys we also learn about their families, specifically their moms who all seem to be dealing with some kind of personal struggle.

I always find it enjoyable when you’re reading a book and feel one way about a character, then a vital piece of information is revealed about them and what you thought you knew completely changes. The book is broken up into steps indicating that things will be intensifying and they did just that. I enjoyed the shorter chapters because they encourage you to read “just one more”. At the same time I feel like these shorter chapters, in combination with so many characters, did the story a disservice. I found it hard to really connect with any of the characters or storylines. I felt at times the story lost its focus, but held out hope that in the end it would all make sense. The last two-thirds of the book picked up for me and the flow felt much better. This may not be my favorite book of all time but I won’t hesitate to pick up another Lisa Scottoline book in the future.

Thank you NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press, and Lisa Scottoline for an opportunity to read and review this book for my honest opinion.

As always, Scottoline has written a pretty darn good page turner that's hard to review because of spoilers. Suffice it to say, she's used the suburban environment and the importance we place on our kids and team sports to create a thriller that will make you question how well you know your neighbors. Good writing, a twisty plot, and intriguing characters (Chris is so creepy but why oh why does no one see it early on?) made this a good, fast read that's perfect for travel, the beach, or a lazy day. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. I'm a fan of Scottoline and you will be too after this one!

Chris Brennan gets hired at a local high school near Philadelphia as a teacher and a baseball coach assistant. Chris is not his real name though and his whole life story is a fake. He quickly befriends three boys from the baseball team who have troubling home conditions and has a plan for them.
The book is divided into two parts, Step one where Chris bonds with the community and Step two where his reasons and master plan is explained. Along with Chris’s story we get involved with the three boys and their domestic situations.
I am a big fan of Lisa Scottoline and was real excited when I got approved for the the ARC. Though not a big thriller the book had enough twists and turns to keep me intrigued. Not one of my favorite Lisa Scottoline books but a quick fast entertaining read. A solid 3.5 stars
Many Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this advance reader copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This and more reviews at https://chloesbooksblog.wordpress.com/

I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I believe this is the second book I have read by this author and I am a fan! What a fabulous heart pounding thrill this was to read! Chris Brennan has established himself as a high school teacher and new assistant baseball coach with a fake resume and background. He has done research on the students he has chosen, as well as the other teachers and the parents. Everything he needs is in place, he only has to gain the trust of the three boys so that he can follow through with his plans. He is very determined and nothing and no one is going to stop him. This author kept me guessing what Chris was actually up to for a long time but her ingenious story line assured there was never a dull moment. From small town charm, to small town gossip, high school drama and heart breaking personal lives, I was riveted to the very end! You won't be able to put this one down for long, if at all!

It's difficult to tell too much about this mystery without giving away some of the surprises. The plot is nothing unusual...the hero saves the world and gets the girl, and the bad guys are brought to justice... and that's exactly what you expect will happen from the beginning. Its not a gripping, white knuckle story. It's an easy, comfortable read and if that's what you're looking for, you will be pleased.
I gave it three stars, because I didn't consider it bad or good. It was a little slow and predictable for me, but I think there are lots of people who like that. It didn't bore or annoy me, so I couldn't call it bad either. Maybe adequate is the way I'd describe it, and suitable for certain people or circumstances.
Note: Thanks to the author and publisher for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

One Perfect Lie was a real page turner. Lots of suspense with many twists and turns.

One Perfect Lie is an emotional thriller, set in Central Valley, Pennsylvania. Featuring a suburban domestic terrorist, this action-packed and family-centric drama will keep the reader guessing even after they finish. At first glance, the protagonist appears threatening, seeking to use the trusting community as pawns in his own evil and mysterious chess game. However, as Scottoline unravels the story, she enraptures the reader’s psyche as only she can.

This was my first Lisa Scottoline book, and it was well worth it! Set in a high school with all of the kinds of kids and adults you would expect in a great storyline about a suspected terrorist bombing. The book was well written with well developed characters that you would love or hate! Great book! I will be checking out some of her other books now.