The Lie

From the moment you open the book you are launched straight into the story. Romy has left her husband and is taking up residence at their weekend cottage. After a few chapters the letter is revealed and the facts of why Romy left are shared. What was really interesting was Michael's behaviour when Romy confronts him about the content, it definitely left me questioning the authenticity of the letter.

As the novel unfolds you get a deeper insight into the complexity of Romy and Michael's relationship which I loved. After being with someone for so many years and bringing up children it was hard not to empathise with Romy and see how torn she was. Where would your loyalties lie? With someone who you have loved and lived with for years or an anonymous stranger?

I really enjoyed this multilayered book: there was the cosy, romanticised setting of her small fisherman's cottage overlooking the Sussex harbour where Romy was trying to start the next chapter of her life; the mystery surrounding the letter and strong need to get to the truth; the ties Romy has with her family and the pull they have on her to support them after Michael's health goes downhill. These themes of love, trust, motherhood, deception, romance and mystery were what made the novel very unique and intriguing. Along with the fact that I couldn't put it down. I loved that it was a page-turner with strong, older characters at the forefront of the story.

I must confess I did feel sympathetic towards Michael after his life-threatening medical condition. To go from being an independent, healthy, career driven male to needing 24 hour care is heartbreaking for anyone. And the dilemma Romy finds herself in is quite a twist in itself, especially as she was just starting to get her life on track. The ending was very fitting and perfectly balanced.

All in all The Lie was a well written novel which I found myself completely absorbed in and desperate to find out the truth. A thoroughly enjoyable read and one I definitely recommend.