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stassi888 's review for:
If You Tell a Lie: A Novel
by Lucinda Berry
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This book had a good premise with trauma, secrets, and unraveling memories, but the execution didn’t fully hit for me. The psychological tension was there, and Lucinda Berry knows how to build an eerie vibe, but the pacing felt off. Some parts dragged while others rushed through moments that should’ve landed harder, especially toward the end.
I really wish we got more from the other characters. There were so many moments where hearing their perspectives could’ve made things feel more layered and emotionally real. It felt like their voices were missing, and that held the story back a bit.
Now the audiobook? That’s where this shined. The voice actors were strong across the board. They brought out the anxiety, confusion, and intensity in a way that kept me hooked even when the plot wasn’t giving what it should.
It’s a decent listen if you like teen-centered psychological drama, but definitely one to go into with your expectations in check.
I really wish we got more from the other characters. There were so many moments where hearing their perspectives could’ve made things feel more layered and emotionally real. It felt like their voices were missing, and that held the story back a bit.
Now the audiobook? That’s where this shined. The voice actors were strong across the board. They brought out the anxiety, confusion, and intensity in a way that kept me hooked even when the plot wasn’t giving what it should.
It’s a decent listen if you like teen-centered psychological drama, but definitely one to go into with your expectations in check.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Cursing, Death, Grief, Death of parent
Minor: Death, Domestic abuse, Eating disorder, Emotional abuse, Fatphobia, Mental illness, Racism, Sexual assault, Violence, Murder, Lesbophobia, Gaslighting, Toxic friendship