First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston follows Evie Porter, a con artist hired by a mysterious employer to infiltrate the life of a handsome businessman, Ryan Sumner. As Evie delves deeper into this fabricated life, the job begins to spiral out of control, threatening to unravel her true identity and expose the organization she works for. Alongside a tension-filled plot, the novel explores themes of identity, community, and redemption. The book refers to misogyny, gambling, substance dependency, and terminal cancer.

Ashley Elston's First Lie Wins is a compelling read noted for its engaging plot and well-constructed characters. Reviewers appreciate its fast pace and twists, making it hard to put down. Some criticism arises from occasional predictability and minor plot holes, but overall, it’s praised for its entertaining mystery and strong narrative voice. Suitable for fans of young adult suspense.

A reader who enjoys fast-paced thrillers with intricate plots and strong, clever protagonists would relish First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston. Fans of Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl and E. Lockhart's We Were Liars will appreciate the suspense and unexpected twists. This book is perfect for those who crave psychological intrigue and mind-bending revelations.

Suspenseful / Mysterious / Challenging / Dark / Contemplative

**Evie Porter/Lucca Marino**  
Evie Porter, originally Lucca Marino, is the dynamic protagonist of *First Lie Wins*. She is a resourceful con artist, forced into crime to care for her sick mother. Coerced by the crime boss Mr. Smith, Evie executes jobs while often devising solutions on the fly. Her character arc revolves around gaining control over her life and building a community of criminals based on trust and empathy.

**Ryan Sumner**  
Ryan Sumner is a 30-year-old man living in Lake Forbing, Louisiana. Raised by his grandparents, he inherits their home and business in the black market. Outwardly a perfect partner to Evie, Ryan reveals a dual personality: loving at home but cold and controlling in business. His openness about his hidden life influences Evie's development.

**Mr. Smith/George**  
Mr. Smith is the static antagonist of *First Lie Wins*. As a manipulative crime boss, he coerces people to work for him, maintaining power through anonymity. Using the alias George, he acts as a shadowy influence in Evie's life, with his controlling and distrustful nature ultimately leading to his downfall.

**Devon**  
Devon is Evie's co-conspirator and an MIT-educated hacker, primarily working in the background of Evie's jobs. He is highly secretive and cautious, contrasting with Evie's risk-taking nature. His character develops throughout the novel, becoming more involved and integral to Evie's plans. His role underscores the theme of community and connection.

Ashley Elston

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Interlude 2-Chapter 14

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Interlude 4-Chapter 18

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Interlude 6-Chapter 22

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Interludes 8-12, Chapters 23-26

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