The Lies You Wrote

Raisa Susanto, Book 1

By: Brianna Labuskes

Narrated by: Caroline Hewitt

Length: 9 hrs and 55 mins

Publisher's summary

For a brilliant forensic linguist, crimes of the past hold clues to new series of murders in a twisting novel of suspense by the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of A Familiar Sight.

The double murder of a married couple in a small Washington town draws FBI forensic linguist Raisa Susanto into an investigation that mirrors a decades-old crime. Twenty-five years ago—to the day—Alex Parker murdered his parents, then took his own life, leaving behind a note admitting everything.

Raisa, paired with forensic psychologist Callum Kilkenny, uses her skills to read between the lines. Especially now that paranoid postings on a conspiracy thread suggest that Alex was a victim himself—theories that have piqued the interest of a perceptive content moderator and a true-crime podcaster eager for a big break.

As old and new crimes converge, messages from the living and the confessions of the dead take on new meaning for Raisa. Something more sinister than a copycat crime is at play, and plundering the darkest corners of a killer’s mind leaves her vulnerable to a deadly twist even she never saw coming.

©2024 by Brianna Labuskes. (P)2023 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all right reserved.

Critic reviews

“Caroline Hewitt's narration is superb, clearly conveying Raisa's confusion and the psychic wounds she carries. Hewitt depicts Delaney's chilling ability to justify her actions with impeccable timing and careful modulation. This series opener shows potential to join the ranks of Patricia Cornwell in terms of creating compelling characters, a surprising story, and satisfyingly complicated motivations.”—Library Journal (starred review)

“This twisty tale challenges Caroline Hewitt to depict the panoply of colorful characters created by Labuskes.… Hewitt matches Labuskes's breakneck pacing and adds anguish to a heartbreaking story. Raisa uncovers the answers with diligence, nail-biting urgency, and surprising turns. Hewitt shines with a creeping tone of paranoia as Labuskes's procedural unfolds.”—AudioFile Magazine

“Labuskes' series starter lays solid groundwork for future episodes featuring agents Susanto and Kilkenny, both complex characters with intriguing backstories, motivations, and personal blind spots. Hand to fans of Iris Johansen's forensic sculptor Eve Duncan and other detectives who take an unconventional approach to solving crime.”—Booklist

Loved it

I wasn’t expecting the story to end the way it did honestly but I loved it.

The suspence

I truly enjoyed the entire book. it's been awhile since I've had that experience.

Unique

Have a new respect for linguists, super cool profession. Well written book, will def be following the series

Fast and fun listen!

Great read, great family story line with some fun twists. could really feel as if I was in the locations descibed in the story. Enjoyed listening!

Twists I never saw

I listen to 8 + books a month. This one.. there was twists I didn’t see. Catching at the beginning middle and last few minutes. I really enjoyed the story, the writing, I would definitely recommend. I have already purchased a written copy. Would read again, which says a lot. In 8+ months this is the first book am more then willing to write a review and say you need to read. I’ll be reading more from this author

One of the best!

Fascinating field of study forgotten by most. This story not only shows the importance of a forensic linguist and psychologist but also the importance of knowing yourself. Absolutely beautiful!

Ready for Book 2

Oh My Gosh, Y'all! This book is so good. I spent a lot of time driving slow or just sitting in my car so that I could continue with this story.

The narration was spot on!
The plot was spot on!
The wait for Book 2 is sucking!

Well Done, Brianna Labuskes!

Fascinating Mystery

I was thoroughly entertained and interested throughout this book. captivating and lots of fun. a really great read

loved it

nice story line with an unexpected originality that was an unexpected twist. there you are then plot twist.

Great storyline with a twist

First book that I've listened to from this author. Really enjoyed the character development. The suspense and linguistic specialty from the main character was really interesting and enjoyable. Linguistic studies was intriguing to learn about In relationships to FBI work.
Narration was enjoyable.
Loved the flow and pace of the book.
Enjoyed the twists that came together without effort at the end.
Looking forward to book two of this series.
Would definitely recommend this book and author.