Great idea, a bit too clumsy writing but overall a nice story and interesting read.
I needed to get used to the writing and that took me about half the book which i know not a lot of readers will push through but once i did get used to it the story was a good one.
So give the book a try, see if the writing is for you and than decide based on that!

Some will love this- I just found it too cliched. Heavy clunky story with no movement.

Romance and historical romance can do much better.

I was really excited for this book. I mean the historical setting! The alternative historical setting to be precise! And a girl who kills people for the main character! It seemed like me & "False Lights" would become best friends. But even the best premise won't work for you, if the writing doesn't and this is a book that proves that point to me.
I'm sorry to say I can't even put my finger on why I didn't like it. But that's also to say that this isn't a bad book per se. It's just not a book for me. I'm sure there will be people who will find it delightful but personally I was lowkey bored.

This is the first 'alternative historical fiction' I have read. Based on the events after the Battle of Waterloo re-imagined as if Napolean had been victorious and England had come under French occupation, this novel is both realistic and entertaining. The heroine is mixed race and the novel illustrates perfectly the prejudices of the time, whilst shining a light on how little seems to have changed in 150 years. There are some dark moments in this novel, but mostly it is a story of redemption and love. Thoroughly enjoyable for lovers of this historical period. I didn't know very much about the Napoleonic Wars, but I now want to read more.

This is a wonderfully imaginative retelling. Twisted loyalties and disturbed characters make this a highly entertaining read. I would've liked to have seen Napoleon make an appearance, although due to the story I don't think it necessarily would've made sense for him to appear. The characters are well formed and plot moves at a good pace. If you're a fan of the 'what if?' then you'll love False Lights!

Thanks Head of Zeus and netgalley for this ARC.

This alternate reality historical mystery/romance/thriller is a awesome example of the genre done right. I loved the action, romance, and unorthodox relationships which make this a unique read. Can't wait to read more from K.J. Whitaker.

False Lights was a highly entertaining read. I enjoyed the alternate-history plot, and the characters were all beautifully three dimensional and engaging, if a little stereotypical at times. However, that adherence to tropes was not a limiting factor in this book as the storyline kept things moving nicely along. Plus, who doesn't love a brooding, tortured hero and a plucky heroine? The multiple narrators worked well, allowing us to easily follow the drama unfolding in different locations, and the ending was satisfying on the whole; although, I found Crow's abrupt change of heart at the end of the book a little too sudden and easy, given the circumstances. If you enjoy alternate-history tales with plenty of romance and adventure, False Lights is definitely a book you'll want to add to your wishlist.

Interesting story for those interested in historical fiction. I really enjoyed the setting.