Elston’s adult debut a thrilling ‘cat-and-mouse’ adventure

Known for writing books for young adults, this is Ashley Elston’s debut adult novel and it is a winner. It is a high-stakes thriller about a professional con artist that keeps readers on the edge of their seats turning the pages eager to uncover each thrilling twist and turn.

Currently known as Evie Porter, she began her life of crime at a young age stealing jewelry and valuables from homes in her community to help her ill mother with much needed money. The narrative of the story alternates between Evie’s past jobs and her present job. Readers will learn about her multiple identities and how she becomes the deceptive, smart, charming con who lives on the edge waiting for her mysterious boss, Mr. Smith, to send her a new assignment.

Mr. Smith doesn’t reveal his true identity. Evie is hired through his disguised voice and given an assignment. Once she receives a new identity, she is given a location, and the name of her target. She is to learn everything she can about her new assignment. The goal is to follow the instructions given to her by Mr. Smith and obtain whatever he is requesting. No matter how dangerous, she is in it 100%.

This job feels different. She has moved into a beautiful home with her boyfriend Ryan, who has no idea that he is Evie’s target. She has developed feelings for Ryan and starts to envision a different life for herself. Everything changes, however, when a strange woman comes to town, not only looking like Evie, but claiming she is Evie’s actual identity from her real hometown. Evie, taken by surprise, wonders if she is the target for this job instead of Ryan. She must find out the true identity of Mr. Smith to protect her future.

The cat and mouse caper begins. Evie must quickly figure out who she can trust and calls upon her loyal partner who helps her with tech issues and always has her back. The lies and secrets keep coming and readers will find out just how good Evie is at her job. Will she find a way to outsmart the ultimate con artist? Readers will be kept guessing until all the loose ends are tied up in the end.

In spite of her occupation, Evie is a likable character and I found myself rooting for her in the most suspenseful game of deception I have ever read. I recommend this exciting read to my fellow lovers of twisty thrillers. Buckle up; once you start it you may not put it down until you finish it.

Questions

• Evie tried to protect her actual identity. Why was that important to her?

• What were some of Evie’s admirable qualities?

• Did the back stories of Evie’s previous identities and jobs help you get to know her better?

• Do you think Evie enjoys the “cat-and-mouse” game?

• Did you guess the identity of Mr. Smith?

• Do you think Evie will be able to leave her life as a con behind and settle down?

• Is your name essential to your identity?

‘First Lie Wins’

By Ashley Elston

Rating: 4.8 stars

Jacquie O’Neil and her daughter, Times Leader Media Group Publisher Kerry Miscavage, contribute to this column.