Extraordinary * * The Times * *
A true original * * Guardian * *
Delights in upsetting expectations The Book of Lies manages to link the twin stories to create an impressive fable about the relativity of truth and the deceits that make living on a small island possible * * Financial Times * *
She has your undivided attention. The end is brilliantly double-edged, bearing witness, as does the book, to human nature's complexity * * Scotland on Sunday * *
A joy - funny, endearing, credible * * Independent * *
Pitch-perfect . . . exceptionally satisfying * * Scotland on Sunday * *
A sizzling debut . . . beautifully evoked * * The Times * *
A startling work * * Guardian * *
Moving, engaging, complex * * Scotsman * *
This is an unforgettable and brilliant debut. It establishes Mary Horlock as an original, compelling and powerful new voice in British fiction * * Hanif Kureishi * *
Irresistibly funny and poignant . . . confirms Mary Horlock as a rare talent * * Marie Darrieussecq * *
Horlock's irreverent style marks the arrival of a distinctive new voice * * Sunday Business Post * *
A surefooted, smart debut . . . Horlock studs her novel with tricks, lies and echoes, all layered with a rich feel for childhood and memory. The result is a novel full of surprise * * Boston Globe * *
Remarkable . . . unique and captivating. A great read for book club members * * Library Journal * *
Cat's indelible, darkly funny voice offers unsparing insights into the adolescent jungle * * Booklist * *
Strange and inviting . . . Catherine's razor-sharp humour gives the book a pleasing, offbeat charm * * Publishers Weekly * *
Spectacular . . . [A] marvellous first novel * * Gazette * *
A gripping, darkly humorous tale * * Globe and Mail * *
A distinctly voiced narrative with a surprising twist * * Good Book Guide * *