Title: Half Truths
Author: Claire Contreras
First published October 21, 2019
370 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780998345574 (ISBN10: 0998345571)
Rating: 4.03
Overview
The exclusive society that everyone talks about has invited me in, and I’m the new kid on the block. They think they can use me as their doormat, but I’m not one to be walked all over.
With my expensive clothes and accessories, I may look like I fit in, but I’m not one of them. I’m here to uncover the truth about what happened to my brother and my friend, who both disappeared under mysterious circumstances.
The star hockey player may be interested in me, but I’m not here for his attention or his judgment. I need to infiltrate the society to find the answers I’m looking for, and he’s the key to getting them.
He’s playing hardball, but I’m willing to play the game if it means getting what I want. I may be the second person in my family to join this society, but I’ll be the first to come out on top.
About the Author
Meet Claire Contreras, a talented author and a New York Times Best Seller. Her captivating books span across various genres from romantic suspense to contemporary romance and have been translated into over fifteen languages worldwide.
When she’s not busy crafting her next masterpiece, you’ll find her either engrossed in a good book or spending quality time with her loved ones.
Want to stay updated on her latest releases? Sign up for text alerts by sending BOOK to 21000.
Connect with her on social media:
TikTok: @clairecontreraswrites
Instagram: ClaireContreras
Editoral Review
Half Truths by Claire Contreras is a beautiful exploration of secrets, lies, and the devastating impact they can have on our lives. Set in Los Angeles, the novel weaves together multiple narratives to create a rich tapestry of relationships, betrayals, and heartbreak.
Despite its weighty themes, Contreras infuses the story with hope and humanity, making for a compelling read that will leave readers thinking long after they turn the final page. Contreras is a seasoned author, having penned numerous bestselling novels in the romance genre.
Half Truths represents a departure from her usual fare, blending elements of mystery, suspense, and drama to create a richly layered narrative. Her prose is lyrical and evocative, conjuring vivid images of the city and its inhabitants.
The characters are complex and well-developed, each with their own secrets and motivations. At its core, Half Truths is a story about the lengths we will go to protect those we love.
The novel follows the intertwined lives of four characters: Dylan, a successful lawyer grappling with a devastating betrayal; Victoria, his estranged wife who carries a secret that could destroy them both; Nate, a reformed drug addict on a mission to make amends for past mistakes; and Liv, a young journalist searching for the truth about her family’s past. As the characters’ lives become increasingly entangled, the novel explores the corrosive effects of secrets and the power of forgiveness.
One of the novel’s strengths is its pacing. Contreras masterfully builds tension throughout the narrative, slowly peeling back each layer to reveal the full extent of the characters’ secrets.
At the same time, she deftly weaves in moments of levity and humanity, preventing the story from becoming too heavy-handed or grim. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, adding depth to the characters and emphasizing their unique perspectives.
Another standout aspect of the novel is its relevance to current events. Half Truths touches on themes of institutionalized racism, police brutality, and the impact of trauma on mental health.
Contreras skillfully integrates these issues into the story without detracting from the central narrative, creating a story that feels both timely and timeless. However, the novel is not without its flaws.
Some readers may find the ending somewhat predictable or overly tidy. Additionally, while the characters are complex and well-drawn, some may find them difficult to empathize with due to their privileged positions and affluent lifestyles.
Overall, Half Truths is an engrossing and thought-provoking read that will appeal to fans of mystery, drama, and romance alike. Contreras’ skillful storytelling and richly drawn characters make for a novel that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant.
The book is a worthwhile read for anyone interested in exploring the impact of secrets and lies on our lives, and the redemptive power of forgiveness. We give this book a 4 out of 5 stars.
