For fans of the Caraval series, Den of Liars is a wickedly sumptuous rollercoaster of heists, magic, and romance. Set in a magical, Roaring Twenties-esque casino where contestants gamble with their secrets to win a high-stakes tournament, with vivid writing that brings all the glitz and glamour to life, Den of Liars is a unique read, as well as lots of fun.
After a failed heist, prospective thief Lola St. James gets drawn into a cat-and-mouse game with the casino’s owner, a magically cursed man known only as the Liar (brother of her best friend, the Thief). Lola is an intriguing character, flawed but sympathetic, whose character arc feels believable and well-earned. She also has amblyopia and wears glasses, providing much-needed representation in fantasy novels for both conditions.
While the book can be exposition-heavy at places, and the worldbuilding hard to keep straight, readers will enjoy the fast-paced story and Lola’s romantic sparring with the brooding and villainous Liar. Their chemistry really sparkles on the page, and they have a dynamic physicality thanks to some excellently written aerial hoop and ballroom dancing scenes. Meanwhile, Lola’s relationship with the Thief is also a messy one, calling into question who is manipulating whom as she races to win the tournament and also learn the secret behind the brothers’ curse.
With older protagonists, violence, and some mildly spicy scenes, this book is best suited for readers aged 16 and up.
Anna Benn
Den of Liars
Jessica S. Olson
Hot Key Books, 2025
Paperback, £16.99
ISBN: 9781471417382
