Party of Liars    by Kelsey Cox Order:  USA  Can Minotaur, 2025 (2025) Hardcover, e-Book     Reviewed by Hilary Williamson Kelsey Cox's Party of Liars is set in a reputedly haunted clifftop mansion in Comal County, Texas. Left to fall into disrepair after a tragedy, it was bought and renovated by psychiatrist Ethan Matthews, then opened up for his daughter Sophie's elaborate, black-tie Sweet Sixteen party. Just after the candles on the cake are blown out, there's a scream - and a falling body. The story then moves back and forth in time, first to the day before the party. We meet Sophie's stepmother Dani Matthews, in the mansion, piping the cake, in between caring for baby Charlotte. Dani was a professional baker before she married Ethan. She has struggled since the baby was born, though they have a helper in older, death-obsessed Irish nanny Orlaith. Dani doesn't like her. Sophie is with her mother Kim (a retired veterinarian), having a sleepover with her oldest friend Mikayla, who worries about 'words that can never be said'. Sophie has invited her quarterback boyfriend Mason to the party, even though he just broke up with her. Ethan's oldest friend and partner Curtis will also attend the party, with his trophy wife Gemma. All of these characters have secrets that are gradually revealed - as is the identity of the victim - in this absorbing and surprising read! Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Mystery books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews