False Hearts is the latest novel from author Laura Lam. Laura has been slowly building her name up in the publishing world the last few years. But it’s False Hearts that is likely to get her worldwide recognition. This novel fits in between the genres of a thriller and a sci-fi and is likely to be a hit within the UK.

False Hearts tells the story of Taema and Tila, conjoined twins who are eventually separated as their shared heart begins to fail. They are both given artificial hearts, enabling them to live their own lives. However, one day Tila returns covered in blood and is shortly followed by the police. She is arrested for murder and Taema is tasked with taking on Tilas identity to discover the circumstances which led to that night. Involvement with drugs is expected, leading Tila to a crime syndicate. However, secrets are shortly discovered about the twins past, which will mean things shall never be the same again for the twins.

This is very much a thriller but with sci-fi elements entwined throughout the story. It is a fast paced novel told through both twins’ perspectives. The characterization is great. The book has quite a short cast of main characters, allowing Laura Lam to explore each character in turn. The actual storytelling is great, with twists and turns located throughout the whole novel. One of the main elements that struck us when reading it, was the originality and complexity, which adds more depth throughout.

At just over 350 pages, Laura Lam manages to deliver a short but powerful novel that will leave a lasting impression on many readers. A thought provoking, fast paced tale which uses characterization to capture reader’s imaginations. A truly great read from a great writer.

FALSE HEARTS / AUTHOR: LAURA LAM / PUBLISHER: MACMILLIAN / RELEASE DATE: 16TH JUNE