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A review by madamelacy
Lie With Me by Philippe Besson
challenging
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
A coming of age story set in France in 1984. The story recounts the relationship between Philippe, who’s destined to pursue his studies, and Thomas whose future lies on the family’s farm.
Thomas is very taciturn and clearly not ready to come out as gay, whereas Philippe feels like he’s more comfortable in his own skin and more enthusiastic about the relationship.
I loved all the cultural references as I spent a lot of time in France in the 1980s, so this definitely contributed to my enjoyment of this book.
I believe the book is semi-autobiographical, which I think possibly made the author too close to the story, so Thomas’ character is less well-developed. However Philippe is the narrator, so maybe it’s understandable that I felt like I got to know him better.
I don’t like coming of age stories but keep on accidentally reading them. This one was more than tolerable though.
Thomas is very taciturn and clearly not ready to come out as gay, whereas Philippe feels like he’s more comfortable in his own skin and more enthusiastic about the relationship.
I loved all the cultural references as I spent a lot of time in France in the 1980s, so this definitely contributed to my enjoyment of this book.
I believe the book is semi-autobiographical, which I think possibly made the author too close to the story, so Thomas’ character is less well-developed. However Philippe is the narrator, so maybe it’s understandable that I felt like I got to know him better.
I don’t like coming of age stories but keep on accidentally reading them. This one was more than tolerable though.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Sexual content
Minor: Suicide