Reviews

Nothing But the Truth by Holly James

geauxgetlit's review against another edition

4.0

This book warmed my heart in so many ways. I am definitely going to try that magical drink she received and realized she could lie no more.

Plus, who doesn’t love books about book people.

maxiehasmoxie's review against another edition

challenging hopeful reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

vaisforbooklovers's review against another edition

4.0

Thank you to NetGalley, Dutton Books and Holly James for giving me the early chance to read this book. Four stars for this story that made me laugh out loud on multiple occasions. Lucy was a smart and confident female main character and I enjoyed every minute of her story on her 30th birthday! I found myself cheering her on every time she got that "nothing but the truth" word vomit. As a woman I found her totally spot on and gutsy in her delivery of certain grievances. I honestly felt the love line of the story was secondary and almost not as exciting as the growth in Lucy's character. I loved all her friends and their support of her, especially Oliver! I look forward to reading more by this author in the future!

keepreadingkatherine's review against another edition

funny hopeful lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No

5.0

this book felt like a romance where the main character fell in love with herself. i’d love to read more of that!

kathydubs10's review against another edition

4.0

I really enjoyed this book from Holly James! While I initially picked it up thinking it was more of a rom-com, it surprised me as it turned more into a story about a woman's realization that telling the truth could be a powerful force in her own life. The way the narrative developed showed that you don't have to fear the truth, because it can serve you really well if you let it. I appreciated James' acknowledgement of why women tend to hide the truth and how complicated power and fear of retaliation is in many of our relationships. Overall, I found the characters likeable and the theme of the book to be well developed and carried out.

sipsnstories's review against another edition

adventurous funny inspiring lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

“Your impressive ability to perform under distress should not justify the distress. Too much expectation is put on women to adapt, when it is in fact the obstacles they face that needs changing.” 

Overall, I really enjoyed this novel! It was a strong blend of quick-paced storytelling and deeper themes, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. It’s exactly the kind of book I’ve been drawn to lately. 

Plot Thoughts: What I found most compelling was how the book reimagines the concept of a day without lies. It goes beyond the obvious moral lessons and delves into the subtle, often unnoticed lies we tell ourselves daily. The story challenges societal expectations—like the notion that beauty requires makeup or that professionalism demands emotional detachment—prompting readers to reflect on the ways they might be unintentionally deceiving themselves. 

Character Thoughts: The characters are a joy to read! The sassy side characters are always my favorite, and I loved the magical and rom-com elements. These aspects add a fun, lighthearted touch without overshadowing the novel’s deeper messages. The balance between the whimsical and the serious is handled beautifully, making for a captivating read. 

A perfect summer book! I will add that you should check trigger warnings though for some of those heavier topics mentioned. 

👍🏻Would recommend! 

messyjessi's review against another edition

5.0

I was expecting a real surface level read and this was so much more. Honest (lol) and delightful.

iz_iz_readn's review against another edition

For a novella it was too slow and pessimistic

saloniporwal's review against another edition

4.0

I really loved this concept but pace was super slow, considering the whole book is about just one day in Lucy's life.

The character arc was great along with the twists that come and go. I got super attached to Lucy and rooting for her.

I felt the feminism, was getting a little out of hand, (I believe in girl power) because a great deal of the book was just Lucy ranting about how hard her life is to Oliver. Though the issue on sexual harassment {Trigger} was dealt with beautifully.

Looking back, many of the plotlines seem random and highly exaggerated due to the emphasis on the power that truth beholds, but listening to it didn't feel so bad, so 3.5 stars. Also, Brittany Pressley is a brilliant narrator :)

ks2_alwaysreading's review against another edition

5.0

Went into this book skeptical, but I loved it. Loved the feminist, go-girl plot aspects and dialogue.