A review by women_using_words
Lies are Forever by C. Jean Downer, C. Jean Downer

dark mysterious tense fast-paced

5.0

Lies Are Forever is an unexpected delight! This is the first book in the Sloane West Mystery Series and it deserves high praise. The world-building, the plot twists, and the characters—they are all so good! It’s a joy to find a book this well-crafted, especially when it’s the first book of the series. 

If you’ve been following my blog for a while, you know I don’t usually choose to read books that delve into the supernatural. However, I will open up a book in this genre if the writing is good, and let me tell you, the writing in Lies Are Forever is beyond good; it’s amazing! Downer’s storytelling blew me away; I couldn’t put it down. And when I wasn’t reading it, I was trying to hurry back to it.

What struck me most about Downer’s novel is its originality. The book offers a fresh and unique perspective on the supernatural genre, challenging its well-established conventions. Downer contradicts the naturalist assumptions of the real world, however she does it in a way that avoids all the clichés and stereotypes that many readers associate with this genre. She doesn’t imitate the story structure of others; her vision for this story is authentic, making it compelling from start to finish. Furthermore, her creative approach is accessible and appealing throughout, providing readers with an exciting opportunity to explore something different.

The other standout feature of Lies Are Forever is its story world. Downer gives readers a world that’s well-developed, relevant and immersive. She takes care to ensure that it follows its own rules and logic, without contradictions or inconsistencies. Even though it’s filled with magical elements and witchcraft, it makes sense. Furthermore, it’s rich in descriptive details, allowing readers to visualize the story world clearly. Because it’s well-developed, readers can experience and connect to the story. They feel as if they are a part of it. Downer’s vivid, immersive world building sets this novel apart, making it top-shelf in every way.

Of course, I would be remiss if I did not mention Downer’s characters. Sloan, of course, is the central figure in this tale and she checks all the boxes. She’s a sympathetic character, flawed and likable in all the right ways. However, Downer achieves something bigger with her. Her drive and vulnerability intensifies the tension and exposes an ever lurking danger, making her not only complex but worthy of reader attention. She’s beyond interesting, and readers can’t get enough of her.

The same could be said of the secondary characters. Jane, Dorathea and Elvina are Sloan’s family and they help shape her journey in unique ways. They work to ensure the plot has depth and complexity, engaging readers at every turn. However, Jane—Sloan’s dead mother—remains the most unusual secondary character. Her presence, or lack thereof, is cloaked in secrecy, creating all kinds of intrigue and suspense. Readers are never quite sure of anything, and it keeps them hanging on the edge of their seats until the end.

Final remarks…

Lies Are Forever is very well done. Downer provides readers with an engaging, cohesive storyline that’s overflowing with rich, fluid language. The characters are well drawn and work together to weave a compelling and surprising plot. This is fresh, unique storytelling, and it deserves top marks. If you like well-written, suspenseful supernatural fiction, then you won’t want to miss this one. 

Strengths…

  • Well-written
  • Highly engaging 
  • Creatively original
  • Well-drawn characters
  • Fantastic story world