Everyone Here Is Lying by Shari Lapena

*** Review ***

In her latest domestic suspense novel, Everyone Here Is Lying, Shari Lapena once again proves herself as a master of manipulation, weaving a web of deceit that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Set in the seemingly safe neighborhood of Stanhope, Lapena takes us on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, showcasing the dark secrets that lurk behind closed doors.

The story begins with William Wooler, a seemingly ordinary family man, who is caught in the throes of an affair that ends in tragedy. His world comes crashing down when he returns home to find his young daughter, Avery, missing. As the neighborhood plunges into chaos, secrets and lies start surfacing, exposing the dark underbelly of Stanhope.

One of the strengths of this novel lies in its use of multiple points of view. Despite the large number of perspectives, Lapena effortlessly guides readers through the intricacies of the narrative, allowing us to connect with the characters. Among the diverse cast, Gully, the detective, and the two mothers stand out, as their concerns for their children elicit empathy and relatability.

The plot-driven nature of the novel keeps the story moving at a breakneck pace, with twists and misdirection keeping readers guessing until the very end. The gradual revelation of information through various viewpoints adds an exciting layer of complexity to the tale, making it a delightful challenge for armchair detectives to unravel the truth alongside the police.

As the investigation unfolds, the seemingly idyllic neighborhood of Stanhope is put under the microscope, revealing the fragility of relationships and the lack of loyalty among its residents. Lapena effectively showcases how little foibles can lead to devastating consequences when secrets are exposed, and the consequences of those actions are explored through a chilling and surprising climax.

The book successfully captures the essence of childhood innocence through characters like Michael and the other children. Their belief that telling the truth will save them from trouble slowly gives way to the realization that sometimes self-preservation requires keeping secrets. This stark contrast between the purity of children and the complex motivations of adults adds depth to the narrative.

Throughout the novel, Lapena delves into the underlying fears of this generation’s professionals, highlighting the precariousness of their seemingly stable lives. This exploration of the characters’ vulnerabilities makes their actions and decisions all the more understandable, as they grapple with the fear of losing everything in the blink of an eye.

Remarkably, Lapena manages to make even the most flawed characters sympathetic. As their layers are peeled back, we recognize their humanity, understanding that under the right circumstances, we too could find ourselves in a similar situation. This ability to craft believable villains out of ordinary individuals is a testament to Lapena’s talent as a writer.

Everyone Here Is Lying encapsulates everything that makes Shari Lapena’s work exceptional. She skillfully weaves a gripping tale of ordinary lives entangled in extraordinary circumstances, forcing readers to ponder just how far they would go to protect their own secrets. The novel serves as a stark reminder that behind the façade of everyday life, a complex and sinister world may lurk, and the terrifying events portrayed within the pages could easily happen to anyone.

In conclusion, Everyone Here Is Lying is an addictive and disquieting masterpiece that will leave readers enthralled and pondering the hidden depths of their own neighborhoods. With its fast-paced plot, well-crafted characters, and unexpected twists, this domestic thriller is a must-read for anyone seeking a gripping and suspenseful journey into the darkest corners of human nature. Shari Lapena has once again delivered a chilling and enthralling novel that will linger in the minds of readers long after the final page.