Review: “What’s Not True”
A dramatic, comedic telenovela of a women’s fiction about infidelity and fickle hearts
This was my twentieth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. It marks me coming full circle as a Reedsy reviewer, as the author’s first book in this series was my first Reedsy review: What’s Not Said. When I saw that there was a sequel, I immediately grabbed it up as I had enjoyed the first one. This review also appears on Reedsy.
If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.
The Premise
Picking up shortly after the end of the previous book in the series, Kassie is now about to be divorced from Mike. Estranged from her lover Chris (also coincidentally Mike’s son, which she learned after the fact), she has an unexpected meeting with him in Paris that seems to be the springboard to reconcile. But when a job opportunity arises, will that get in the way of them rekindling their relationship?
Meanwhile, Mike’s deceitful fiancée Karen (who donated her kidney to save his life) is now eagerly awaiting the moment when she can “lock him down” into marriage, but Mike’s deteriorating health puts her money-grubbing plans on hold. When Kassie flies home to Boston when Mike falls ill, she engages in a battle of wills with Karen. But there are secrets which affect them all — what will happen when they all come to light?
The Pros
This was a dramatic, comedic telenovela of a women’s fiction about infidelity and fickle hearts, similar to the first in the series: “What’s Not Said“.
Again, I loved that the characters are middle-aged with enjoyable sex lives, and appreciate that there is a bright humour in addressing the raunchy parts — the casual mention of erectile dysfunction pills, the ability (or lack thereof) to go multiple rounds of sex, and the references to aging bodies that are still sexually attractive, functional and beautiful.
The characters were all fabulously flawed but they all each have their redeeming qualities. I especially loved how Mike and Kassie were able to connect genuinely despite so much that has transpired between them — their relationship and mutual respect for each other was touching and sweet. After everything, Mike knew that there had been real love there, even though they were on the verge of divorce, and that Kassie had a lot to offer in terms of her skill and wit to manage a business.
Their relationship — surrounded by so much farcical fakeness and infidelity — was the saving grace among so many deplorable characters, and I was thrilled to read these parts. I also liked the aspects of romantic comedy, and the cattiness of the women as they interacted with each other. There are also a few surprises and a few shocking dramatic moments to hold the reader’s interest.
The Cons
Having adored many elements of the first book in the series, it is hard not to compare them, but I must admit this one lost a bit of the initial charm. Its pacing is challenged with being the second in the series, because it has to “catch us up” many times to what had already transpired. Having already read that book, I wished it would move right along to the action, but I had to be patient.
That said, I do not recommend reading this until you have read the first book, as you will inevitably be very lost among all of the interlocking relationships of the characters. Plus if you miss the first book, you’ll have missed out on Topher, who was largely absent here (much to my dismay!) — whereas he stole the show at times in Book 1, in Book 2 he was left in the care of a friend while Kassie was travelling. He needs his own book (or at least a short story)… just saying! 🙂
Conclusion
Overall, this was an enjoyable read, with spicy characters and drama galore. If you’re a “Golden Girls” fan who loves daytime soap operas, this would be sure to tickle your fancy. I think this novel will resonate well with this audience, as these types of characters are not celebrated enough, particularly in this genre that includes romance and sex. It ends on a bit of a cliffhanger. I believe there will be a third book following on from this one, and I look forward to seeing what happens next with “Bad Kassie”, now that she is at the helm of things!
