Having read and thoroughly enjoyed the previous book A Stranger's House by Clare Chase (you can find my review HERE ) I was so keen to read this book. And, I was not disappointed. For all you fans of mysteries this book will feed your addiction to good old fashioned sleuthing! 

The story carries on from A Stranger's House but it can be read just as well as a standalone although I would urge you to read the previous book just to add further to your enjoyment of the series. Again we are introduced to Nate and Ruby. Now in a relationship, Nate is unhappy that Ruby takes up the job offer to write about the life of Diana Patrick-John, a murdered academic. Nate is worried that Ruby and her nose for a good story will not be able to resist the urge to investigate the murder while she is writing the book. He is also worried that Diana's sleazy brother has another agenda in hiring Ruby. But, Ruby being fiercely independent and not one to take advice easily decides to go ahead and move into Diana's old home to write the book. She does not feel she has Nate's support but he himself has some secrets that he doesn't want to reveal to Ruby in order to protect her from danger, despite placing himself right in the line of danger in an attempt to protect Ruby and bring the murderer of his own sister to justice. Both are being inexplicably lead into worlds that could threaten the survival of their relationship and in fact their lives. 

During her research into Diana, its not long before Ruby finds put that Diana's life isn't everything that was publicly portrayed. In fact, the entire family is such an intricate web of lies and deceit and before long Ruby finds herself caught up in trying to solve the murder.

This book had me totally hooked from the very beginning. So much so that I simply could not put it down. The easy writing style carried me along and  I have been recommending this book to work colleagues, long before I even finished it. Its just that good! I love that Ruby is such a strong female lead with a real nose for a good mystery. She doesn't rely on Nate or need his validation to do what she wants. She's a brilliant character and I love her! Throughout the course of the book there are little snippets of secrets and clues hidden throughout and lots of surprises and open mouthed moments for me! With a complicated but expertly written plot to tease the reader throughout, One Dark Lie will weave you into its mystery and suspense. More please Clare Chase!!! A very highly recommended read from me.