Synopsis

Pearl Davis always had a strained relationship with her mother, Sally. Growing up, she rarely felt her mother’s love. So many things about her mother’s behavior never added up. But when Sally dies unexpectedly, she leaves Pearl a letter from the grave…confessing to murder.

Suddenly, Pearl has even more questions than she has answers. She suspects the letter is just a sign of her mother’s diminished state of mind―until she finds human remains in Sally’s garden. With the help of a friend, Pearl begins searching for the truth of her mother’s actions―and as she does, more cryptic notes emerge. But these letters aren’t just clues behind a confession. They’re a warning. Sally was terrified of something.

When more remains are discovered, it’s clear whatever secrets Sally died with are now Pearl’s to bear. And as darkness closes in, Pearl fears that her mother’s past could be the death of her.

This intricately woven tale is told alternately between the present and the past, with each chapter adding another layer of intrigue and terror. If you enjoy thrillers packed with nail-biting psychological suspense, breathtaking twists, and unforgettable characters, you won’t be able to turn the pages fast enough to discover the surprising conclusion of THE LIE SHE WEARS.

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Review

I do love a good psychological thriller, and this one kept me guessing until the end.

The story is told in dual timelines and multiple points of view. The past section (1992) was confusing because it had a different name at the top of most of the chapters, but as you read along, you will learn that this is the same person. I started to suspect who the person might really be, but watching that story unfold was like watching a dance.

I felt bad for Pearl because her life was not what anyone would want to endure. Her mother was not affectionate, and it felt abusive in a way. I believe some of Sally’s past experiences contributed to her treatment of Pearl.

Some intriguing twists move the plot forward even more. Just when I thought I might have figured out a piece of the puzzle, another tidbit was dropped, creating more questions.

The author ties up the loose ends, and it makes for a satisfying read.

We give it 5 paws up.

About the Author

Elle Marr is the #1 Amazon Charts bestselling author of The Family Bones, Strangers We Know, Lies We Bury, and The Missing Sister. Originally from Sacramento, Elle graduated from UC San Diego before moving to France, where she earned a master’s degree from the Sorbonne University in Paris. She now lives and writes in Oregon with her family.

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