Tell No Lies is the sixth volume in the Faith McClellan series from LynDee Walker and delivers on every element you'd want in such a book.

First, if you haven't read any books in the series, I think this could be read as a standalone, but you will appreciate many of the nuances a lot more if you've read the others. If you're a reader who likes strong female leads, I would suggest starting from book one, though you could start here and then go back. Either way, I think you'll find a lot in the series as a whole to keep you engaged.

As is Walker's style, the reader is drawn into the story immediately, even if we're trying to figure things out. But so is Faith, so we're doing it together. The dialogue and action are believable and generally sheds light not only on the plot but on the characters as full human beings.

For me, what sets the book, and the series more broadly, apart is the characters. Faith at times appears to be like you would expect a Texas Ranger to be, but through her thoughts and approach we get the bigger picture. That is the norm for the lead character in any series and Walker does it very well. But in each volume the recurring as well as the case-specific characters are given a life beyond just their interactions with Faith. Maybe through peripheral dialogue, often through Faith's investigation itself, but also it is just placing them in environments that highlight more than simply their role in the case. If you're also drawn to books with compelling and interesting characters, you'll enjoy this series.

In this volume we question, along with Faith, almost everyone and everything. Who can be trusted? Maybe more important, how far can each be trusted? What hidden motives might be at play? We're constantly guessing, I mean, rationally making determinations. Oh, who am I kidding, we're guessing, no matter how educated some of those guesses might be. That is part of the fun of any mystery. ( )

As expected, a fast-paced thrill ride with Faith McClellan! Be prepared, because this book will take you right to the cliff's edge and leave you hanging!

Thanks to Severn River Publishing for access to a digital ARC on NetGalley. ( )