I very rarely start a book and don't finish it before starting the next one. The Lies I Tell by Julie Clark is a notable exception to this pattern. I initially picked this book up in July. I read a chapter, put it down, and came back to it a few days or weeks later more times than I can count. I finally finished it this past weekend, the beginning of November.
Don't let my slow progress fool you, though. The book is very well written and the plot is fantastic. The mystery of a female con-artist and the reporter working to expose her is a fabulous play. The characters of Meg and Kat each have their own powerful stories and their interplay is extremely well done.
So why did it take me so long? It's all about pacing. This book was perfect for picking up to read a single chapter. Unfortunately for me, that means I forgot about it for long stretches of time. I'm an out of sight, out of mind person. I would tuck the book in my purse and forget about it until my next outing. Not because I didn't enjoy it but it wasn't until the 4th quarter that it hooked me enough to not put it down.
It's got some great twists and you really feel for both Meg and Kat - even if Meg is a con woman and you know it. Throughout the book I felt myself rooting for them both to "win", even given their conflicting goals.
It's not my normal book choice but if you like a solid novel that unfolds bit by bit - definitely grab a copy of The Lies I Tell. It is absolutely worth the slow burn.
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