Way twines two stories into a double helix, twisting them seamlessly around each other so that we know they really form one tale, but for long enough cannot quite see how they will eventually merge ... [Way] handles her dual narrative deftly, meting out well-paced details that create and develop tension as readers puzzle out the ties between Beth’s story about Hannah and Clara’s investigation of Luke’s disappearance ... While the author’s controlling rein on the narrative keeps attention focused...her characterization of the important players in the story is less sharp ... Those new to the author’s work will enjoy — or perhaps shudder — at this tense psychological thriller.
Readers will easily race through the novel to find out how the two stories are related and if there’s any chance at a happy ending. An engaging read for suspense fans who can’t get enough of the woman-in-peril theme.
Camilla Way is a dab hand at creating plausible scenarios and solid, believable dialogue...The Lies We Told is more of a light sparring, handbags at dawn kind of a read. Yes, there are revelations aplenty, but they’re of the ‘oh yes, I thought so’ variety and are unlikely to surprise all that much. That said, this is a book that holds the attention while not overtaxing the brain too much. An excellent choice for the growing holiday read pile.
