Review: Tell Me No Truths by Gill Vickery

Nico, Jade and, Amber meet in Florence during a trip with their respective families. Nico wants to follow the path of his favourite crime author, E.J. Holme, who lives as a recluse, and Amber and Jade want to understand why their grandfather had to flee Italy after the fascist Black Brigade attacked a Partisans’ farm on April 9, 1944. All the answers seem to be found in Borgo Sant’ Angelo. Are the twin sisters ready to uncover the truth about their grandfather? Will Nico finally discover the identity of E.J. Holme? What is the link between the writer and the sisters’ story?

Gill Vickery’s novel Tell Me No Truths is about secrets: the secret identity of E.J. Holme, the secret of Jade and Amber’s grandfather, the secret of Borgo Sant’ Angelo’s Partisans. It is also about growing up, becoming independent, and accepting the past to be able to move on.

All characters are well-developed; they all have qualities and flaws which make them relatable. Nico dresses like a goth and is passionate about drawing. He struggles with a very protective mother and a step-father he finds annoying. Jade is empathetic and calm whereas her sister, Amber, is impulsive and energetic. They both really miss their grandfather and want to understand his past. The sisters are afraid of telling their parents about their research fearing they will disapprove it.

The plot and sub-plots are well-structured and as I was as surprised as Nico, Jade, and, Amber when the truths were finally unveiled. Chapters which take place in the present moment are followed by chapters which relate the event taking place during World War II. Following the two storylines is easy and they complement each other. 

In this book, Gill Vickery also shares her love for Italy and Florence and I really enjoyed following the three teenagers around the city. It also made me want to learn more about World War II in Italy and about the Partisans’ fight against fascism.

This is an excellent book that I would recommend if you are looking for a gripping storyline. 

Anne-Charlotte Gerbaud