The Good Liars

In the summer of 1914, a boy vanishes, and the Stilwell family of Darkacre Hall is struggling with the legacy of the First World War. When the case is reopened, the family is under police scrutiny, and old resentments resurface. Secrets risk being unearthed that could destroy them all.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 17 August 2023
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

In the summer of 1914, a young boy named Leonard vanishes without a trace, leaving his family and the community of Darkacre Hall in shock and disbelief. However, as the years pass, the Stilwell family begins to face the lingering consequences of the First World War. Leonard, who bears physical scars from his wartime experiences, struggles to cope with the trauma, while his brother Maurice battles with the mental scars that have taken a toll on his mind. Maurice's wife, Ida, yearns for the days of luxury and privilege that they once enjoyed, while their family friend, Victor, appears reluctant to move on from the past.

But their lives are once again turned upside down when the missing boy's case is reopened, and this time, the Stilwells themselves are under police scrutiny. As the dead return to haunt the living, old resentments resurface, and loyalties are tested. Secrets that have been buried for years risk being unearthed, and the Stilwells find themselves in a race against time to protect themselves and their loved ones from the consequences of their actions.

"The Good Liars" is a gripping and suspenseful novel that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the aftermath of war. Anita Frank has created a range of characters that are alternately agreeable and repellent, yet all entirely readable. The novel blends history and mystery, with a sprinkling of spookiness on top, making it a compelling and page-turning read.

Praise for "The Good Liars" has been pouring in from critics and readers alike. "Ingenious" is just one of the many accolades that have been bestowed upon the book. "The Good Liars is not only a superb book, it's a clever book," writes MW Craven in the Sunday Times. "Claustrophobic, addictive, and utterly compelling; I absolutely loved it." "Exquisitely written, this haunting tale of guilt and grief treads a perfect line between chilling ghost story and gripping mystery," adds Tom Hindle. "A modern classic," declares Claire Dyer. "I couldn't put it down." "A compelling, WW1 tale of deceit, lies, and the damages of war," praises Rebecca Netley. "Dripping with claustrophobic tension and absolutely unputdownable." "Anita Frank has created a range of characters alternately agreeable and repellent, and yet all entirely readable, in a blend of history and mystery," concludes Mandy Robotham. "A fabulous book... full of twists and turns and heartbreaking revelations with a sprinkling of spookiness on top."

In conclusion, "The Good Liars" is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a gripping and suspenseful novel that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the aftermath of war. Anita Frank's masterful storytelling and her ability to create characters that are both relatable and unforgettable make this a modern classic that will leave readers eagerly anticipating her next masterpiece.

Weight: 562g
Dimension: 161 x 243 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008455224