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43 pages 1 hour read

False Witness

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021

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Book Brief

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Karin Slaughter

False Witness

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021
Book Details
Pages

496

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Atlanta, Georgia • Contemporary

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

False Witness is a psychological thriller by Karin Slaughter about sisters Callie and Leigh who, years after killing a man who abused Callie, face threats from his son, who uses their dark secret to manipulate Leigh, now a lawyer, into defending him in a rape case. The sisters navigate a dangerous game to protect themselves and their loved ones from the blackmailer. Topics include sexual abuse, substance use disorder, and murder.

Mysterious

Dark

Suspenseful

Gritty

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.2

127,518 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Karin Slaughter's False Witness offers a gripping, fast-paced thriller featuring complex characters and timely social themes. Many readers praise the tense, unpredictable plot and strong character development. However, some find the graphic content unsettling and the pacing uneven. Still, it’s noted for its emotional depth and relevance.

Who should read this

Who Should Read False Witness?

Readers who enjoy gripping legal thrillers, psychological depth, and intense character development will be captivated by Karin Slaughter's False Witness. Fans of Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl and Paula Hawkins' The Girl on the Train will appreciate its suspenseful narrative and twisted plotlines.

4.2

127,518 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Harleigh “Leigh” Collier

The primary protagonist whose perspective dominates much of the narrative; she is deeply connected with her sister Callie and is portrayed as having a seemingly stable life despite a traumatic past.

A supporting protagonist who shares the narrative with Leigh; she struggles with a substance use disorder and displays a significant bond with her sister, participating actively in the story's unfolding events.

Serves as an antagonist who embodies themes of misogyny and violence; he maintains a façade of being an ally to social movements while hiding his true intentions and actions.

Book Details
Pages

496

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Atlanta, Georgia • Contemporary

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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