The Monster Within

Once A Liar by A.F. Brady is a marvelous contemporary psychological thriller that will have you hooked from the start.

The story is set in two time periods – ‘then’ and ‘now.’ It is told from just one point of view. The intricately woven plot line produces an ending that I did not spot coming.

The main protagonist builds their life on a bed of lies. “I just lied so much that I believe myself.” In the end even they do not know where the lie ends and the truth begins. Unsteady foundations mean lives are sure to topple.

Absolute power corrupts absolutely. Innocent lives are corrupted when money, status and power are your only goals. When people are seen as objects, monsters are created. Ruthless ambition is not a thing to be envied. “I’m the product of people who couldn’t care.” Beware of what you wish for.

Once A Liar was a thriller that engrossed and appalled me. It is a stark warning of the dangers of ambition when people are trodden on in order to reach the top. The book was brilliantly constructed from the very first page to the jaw dropping finale.

I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

JULIA WILSON