The First to Lie

A Novel

By: Hank Phillippi Ryan

Narrated by: Cassandra Campbell

Bestselling and award-winning author and investigative reporter Hank Phillippi Ryan delivers another twisty, thrilling cat and mouse novel of suspense that will have you guessing, and second-guessing, and then gasping with surprise.

We all have our reasons for being who we are—but what if being someone else could get you what you want?

After a devastating betrayal, a young woman sets off on an obsessive path to justice, no matter what dark family secrets are revealed. What she doesn’t know—she isn’t the only one plotting her revenge.

An affluent daughter of privilege. A glamorous manipulative wannabe. A determined reporter, in too deep. A grieving widow who must choose her new reality. Who will be the first to lie? And when the stakes are life and death, do a few lies really matter?

A Macmillan Audio production from Forge Books

Critic reviews

“A twisty road of deception that starts with a bang and ends with an explosion.”—Samantha Downing, USA Today bestselling

“A taut, propulsive plot with twists that will take your breath away.”—Sarah Pekkanen

“Intricate, complex, and devilishly clever… like reading a burning stick of dynamite.” —J. T. Ellison, New York Times bestselling author

“Jaw-dropping…The First to Lie will shock even the savviest of suspense readers.” —Heather Gudenkauf, New York Times bestselling author

“You will tear through the pages of this breathless, keep-you-up-all-night thriller.” —Jennifer Hillier, award-winning author

“Stellar... Ryan could win a sixth Agatha with this one.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“A magnificent, intricately plotted thriller that will have you questioning everyone’s motives until the stunning ending.” —Samantha M. Bailey, bestselling author of Woman on the Edge

“Filled with sharp insights, The First to Lie is a house of mirrors, taking us on a thrilling ride of dizzying twists and shocking revelations.” —Angie Kim, national bestselling author of Miracle Creek

“A must-read for thriller lovers--the compelling and twist-filled plot fearlessly delves into the intersections of revenge and family secrets.” —Vanessa Lillie, bestselling author of Little Voices

“Expert pacing, richly drawn characters, and seamless storytelling are just some of the ingredients that make this novel impossible to put down. Fabulous!” —Hannah Mary McKinnon, internationally bestselling author of Sister Dear

Decent story but...

I thought the story / plot was good, however 2 things I didn’t care for: some of the narration was too low. I’m not sure how it plays is everyone’s car, but sometimes I had to turn the volume u to 30 to hear portions meant to be thoughts or whispers that were said quietly. Not the narrators fault, but annoying. Second, really didn’t care for the plot reveals and the ending.

Great Read

The First to Lie was a great read by Hank Phillippi Ryan. This book questions what would happen if you could become someone else in order to get what you want. A young woman was betrayed and goes on a very obsessive path to get justice. She will get that justice, no matter what dark secrets are revealed about her family. But she doesn’t realize that she isn’t the only person looking to get revenge. I loved reading this book and can’t wait to read more by Hank Philippi Ryan.

Good plot

This plot was great. I enjoy the Hank Phillipi Ryan books. I didn't see the resolution until I was practically on top of it.

Who is lying

This book will keep you guessing until the end about who is lying about their identities and who they really are. Cassandra Campbell narration was great.

The First to Lie

I have got to say, Hank Phillippi Ryan is a wonderful author! I have loved all her books and look forward to more!!All the twists and turns culminate in a mysterious tale with an unpredictable ending!