What is First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston about?

First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston follows Evie Porter, a woman who doesn't actually exist—she's a con artist working for a mysterious employer named Mr. Smith, assuming fake identities to complete high-stakes jobs. When her current assignment involves infiltrating the life of Ryan Sumner, a successful businessman, Evie develops real feelings for him. The thriller intensifies when someone claiming to be Evie's real identity arrives in town, forcing her to stay one step ahead of her past while uncovering a dangerous conspiracy.

Who is Ashley Elston and what other books has she written?

Ashley Elston is a Louisiana-based author and former wedding photographer who transitioned to writing full-time. Before First Lie Wins, she published six successful young adult novels, including The Rules for Disappearing and This Is Our Story. First Lie Wins marks her debut in adult fiction and became a number one New York Times bestseller and Reese's Book Club pick. The book is being adapted into a Hulu series starring Octavia Spencer.

Who should read First Lie Wins?

First Lie Wins is perfect for fans of psychological thrillers with unreliable narrators and twisty plots. Readers who enjoyed The Silent Patient, Gone Girl, or similar fast-paced cat-and-mouse thrillers will appreciate Ashley Elston's intricate web of deception. The book appeals to those who love identity-driven mysteries, morally complex characters, and stories where nothing is as it seems. It's ideal for readers seeking a page-turner they can finish in one or two sittings.

Is First Lie Wins worth reading?

First Lie Wins is absolutely worth reading for thriller enthusiasts seeking fresh, unpredictable storytelling. The novel earned its New York Times bestseller status and Reese's Book Club selection through clever plot twists, strong character development, and masterful pacing. Ashley Elston successfully transitions from young adult to adult fiction with a sophisticated narrative structure that alternates between present-day action and revealing flashbacks. While some readers find the premise slightly familiar, the execution and unexpected ending make it a compelling, fast read.

What does "First Lie Wins" mean in the book?

The title First Lie Wins refers to a core principle in Ashley Elston's thriller: the first lie told is often the one people believe as truth, making it the most powerful and strategic. In the context of the story, Evie Porter understands that establishing a believable first impression and foundational lie sets the stage for everything that follows. This concept drives her methodology as a con artist—the initial deception must be deliberate, strong, and convincing because it becomes the baseline reality that all subsequent interactions build upon.

Who is Mr. Smith in First Lie Wins and what role does he play?

Mr. Smith is the mysterious, shadowy employer who assigns Evie Porter her undercover jobs throughout First Lie Wins. Evie has never met him in person and communicates through intermediaries, making him an ominous, controlling presence. He provides her with new identities, locations, and marks to investigate or manipulate. As the story progresses, Mr. Smith becomes an antagonist when Evie realizes he may have turned against her, possibly trying to frame her or eliminate her based on a previous failed assignment involving someone named Amy Holder.

What is the twist ending of First Lie Wins?

The major twist in First Lie Wins reveals that Evie has been secretly working with Amy Holder—the woman from a previous failed job—to take down Mr. Smith all along. Rather than being a victim of Mr. Smith's manipulation, Evie orchestrated an elaborate counter-operation. By the novel's end, Evie, Amy, and their trusted associate Devon successfully overthrow Mr. Smith and take control of his illicit business operations. Evie also reconciles with Ryan Sumner, suggesting a path toward authenticity after years of deception.

How does First Lie Wins explore the theme of identity?

First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston deeply examines identity through Evie's profession of adopting fake personas while keeping her real identity—Lucca Marino—hidden. The novel questions whether we're defined by our authentic selves or the roles we perform, especially when Evie develops genuine feelings while living as someone else. The appearance of an imposter using Evie's real name creates a crisis of self, forcing her to confront which version of herself is worth protecting and whether redemption requires reclaiming her true identity or creating an entirely new one.

First Lie Wins Summary, PDF, EPUB, Audio

First Lie Wins

Ashley Elston

Thriller

Suspense

Mystery

Overview

Key Takeaways

Author

FAQs

Evie Porter lives a perfect lie until her past catches up. This million-copy bestseller and Reese Witherspoon pick has Hollywood buzzing, with Netflix adaptation underway. What secrets make this thriller so addictive that Lisa Gardner called it "the best cat-and-mouse suspense in years"?

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First Lie Wins isn't just a book — it's a masterclass in Thriller. To help you absorb its lessons in the way that works best for you, we offer five unique learning modes. Whether you're a deep thinker, a fast learner, or a story lover, there's a mode designed to fit your style.

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"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

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"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

1.5K Ratings4.7

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Download This Summary

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First Lie Wins

Ashley Elston

Thriller

Suspense

Mystery

Overview

Key Takeaways

Author

FAQs

Explore Your Way of Learning

Quick Summary8min

Feel the book through the author's voice

Deep Dive42min

Turn knowledge into engaging, example-rich insights

Flash Card10 insights

Capture key ideas in a flash for fast learning

Fun22min

Enjoy the book in a fun and engaging way

More Like This

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Dark Secrets: When Hidden Truths Surface

Key Takeaways

The Perfect Girlfriend Who Never Existed

00:00

Evie Porter seems perfect for Ryan Sumner. She knows his favorite foods, preferred side of the bed, and everything that makes him tick. Their romance began when he gallantly changed her flat tire, and now they're moving in together after a whirlwind courtship. There's just one problem: Evie Porter doesn't exist. The woman calling herself Evie is actually Lucca Marino, a professional con artist who engineered every aspect of their "chance" meeting. That flat tire? Deliberately sabotaged after weeks of studying Ryan's routine. Her appearance, personality, and backstory? Carefully crafted to appeal to him. Even her tragic backstory about losing her parents is a fabrication designed to create sympathy and deflect questions. What makes this deception fascinating is how Lucca balances professional detachment with genuine emotion. Despite her training to never get attached during a job, she finds herself developing real feelings for Ryan. When he suggests she move in permanently, authentic happiness flutters beneath her calculated exterior. This internal conflict-between the professional con artist and the woman possibly falling in love-drives the narrative and humanizes a character who might otherwise be difficult to relate to.

The Making of a Master Deceiver

The Target Who Might Be the Hunter

When Your Identity Is Stolen-Literally

The Long Con Behind the Short Con

The Cost of Living Someone Else's Life

Finding Truth in a Web of Lies

Explore Your Way of Learning

Quick Summary

First Lie Wins Summary in 8 Minutes

Break down key ideas from First Lie Wins into bite-sized takeaways to understand how innovative teams create, collaborate, and grow.

00:00

Flash Card

Top 10 Insights from First Lie Wins in a Nutshell

Distill First Lie Wins into rapid-fire memory cues that highlight key principles of candor, teamwork, and creative resilience.

Fun

First Lie Wins Lessons Told Through 22-Min Stories

Experience First Lie Wins through vivid storytelling that turns innovation lessons into moments you'll remember and apply.

00:00

Personalize

Experience First Lie Wins in your own way.

Ask anything, pick the voice, and co-create insights that truly resonate with you.

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 200,000+ Curious Minds

See more on how BeFreed is discussed across the web

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 200,000+ Curious Minds

See more on how BeFreed is discussed across the web

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

1.5K Ratings4.7

Start your learning journey, now

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First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston Summary

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Similar books to First Lie Wins

More Like This

Key Takeaways

The Perfect Girlfriend Who Never Existed

The Making of a Master Deceiver

The Target Who Might Be the Hunter

When Your Identity Is Stolen-Literally

The Long Con Behind the Short Con

The Cost of Living Someone Else's Life

Finding Truth in a Web of Lies

Quick Summary Mode - Read or listen to First Lie Wins Summary in 8 Minutes

Flash Card Mode - Top 10 Insights from First Lie Wins in a Nutshell

Fun Mode - First Lie Wins Lessons Told Through 22-Min Stories

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Download First Lie Wins PDF

Download First Lie Wins EPUB

More Like This

Key Takeaways

The Perfect Girlfriend Who Never Existed

The Making of a Master Deceiver

The Target Who Might Be the Hunter

When Your Identity Is Stolen-Literally

The Long Con Behind the Short Con

The Cost of Living Someone Else's Life

Finding Truth in a Web of Lies