"Count My Lies" | Reviewed by Andi Kloppe

Sloane wants nothing more than to feel needed and be part of a family. If that takes one little lie—two—three to accomplish, what’s the harm? No one gets hurt, right?

This has been a way of life for the main character of the psychological thriller “Count My Lies,” by Sophie Stava. “Count My Lies” is full of secrets that threaten to reveal themselves at inopportune moments, deception, desperation for a life that could be, characters who may not be as perfect as they first appear, and plenty of plot twists that will keep you turning the pages, needing to know what happens next. 

At a young age, Sloane becomes a social chameleon and a pathological liar. She will do or say whatever it takes to fit in. Her deception starts in elementary school when she makes up a story about a house fire and having a movie star father. This makes her the person everyone wants to talk to and be around. The only problem is, the truth always has a way of coming out. 

Years later, Sloane finds herself working a meaningless job at a spa. One day, while on her break in the park, she hears a child crying and can't help but investigate. She finds herself face-to-face with a handsome father who needs help with his young daughter who has just been stung by a bee. Naturally, Sloane creates a persona that fits the situation. A few lies later she’s convinced the father she’s a nurse with a different name, and the man is graciously thanking her for her help and insisting that she should meet his wife, Violet. 

Violet becomes the friend that Sloane always hoped to find. What’s better, Violet offers her a job as a nanny for Harper, her daughter. Violet has similar interests, a matching sense of humor, and appears to need Sloane just as much as Sloane needs her. It’s almost too good to be true.  

Before she knows it, Sloane is invited on family vacations, dinners, and birthday celebrations. She feels like part of the family, and even starts to look like Violet, the sister she never had but always wanted. She has a new best friend, and a job that she loves. This is all Sloane ever hoped for. She just has to make sure the truth never comes out. 

While on a family vacation with Violet, her husband Jay, and their daughter Harper, Sloane couldn't be happier. That is, until she develops increasing feelings for Jay, and can’t help but notice changes in her best friend. Has Violet discovered secrets from her past? Surely not. 

Set aside some time to read “Count My Lies” because if you’re anything like me, you won’t want to put the book down!

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