Themes/Triggers:
Love, lust, relationships, secrets, obsession, anxiety, lies, disordered eating, drugs and alcohol misuse, betrayal, addiction, mood disorders, desire, ambition, death.
Synopsis:
Lucy Albright is thrilled to be leaving her hometown to start college in California. In particular she can't wait to get away from her mother after the Unforgivable Thing happened. She embraces a fresh start with new friends, wild parties and back to back classes. And then she meets Stephen - confident, charming, funny and attractive, Lucy can't deny the pull she feels towards him even though her gut instinct tells her there is something wrong.
Stephen can't resist the chemistry between Lucy and himself, quickly manipulating her with a false sense of possibility and commitment. With a dark secret and a compulsive need to win, Stephen is determined to keep Lucy's heart.
Thoughts:
I was instantly pulled to this book for its pretty pink cover and interesting blurb. I was after an easy romance read with a twist but did I get that wrong! This book was addictive from start to end and really brought to front the true nature of an unhealthy relationship and the consequences it can have on ones physical and mental well-being.
The story is told from a dual narrative by both Lucy and Stephen spanning from 2010-2017. I appreciated the background on both characters because you get to know them better as people and understand how their previous experiences shape their lives over the years. It did get repetitive at points but it was interesting to know both characters thoughts and actions from their own perspectives.
There were two main wow moments for me in this book, Lucy's secret about the Unforgiveable Thing was completely unexpected and shocking - I loved that this is disclosed quiet early on in the book because everything makes a lot more sense (especially when its referenced so often.) On the other hand, Stephen's hidden truth is kept from us right until the every end. There were times when I forgot about his secret completely until his anxiety crept back up on him along with vague memories of 'that night.' I started to figure it out for myself and it was later confirmed in Stephen's confession. I was disappointed in how this whole situation was dealt with and really wished he got his comeuppance - regardless of there being evidence etc. karma could have taught him a lesson! It's been a week since I finished reading this novel, now that I've had more time to reflect on my thoughts I can honestly say Stephen is a horrible person, his lack of guilt and empathy was astonishing.
The relationship between Lucy and Stephen was damaging and toxic from the very beginning, I don't think any amount of passion or lust can overwrite the lies, deceit and constant manipulation - it's just not worth it. It was really difficult to read about Lucy's pain and sadness when she brought this on herself but I still felt for her and like Lucy wished maybe everything would be ok this time. But saying this, I could see how the initial lure could seem attractive at a young, impressionable age. The dynamics of the relationship itself are very real and I think a lot of people would be able to relate, if they have had a similar experience with a sociopathic lover.
Stephen's point of view was extremely interesting, I couldn't fathom his lack of emotions and consciousness, his thoughts were unfiltered and always brought a chill down my spine. I wonder if he had any true feelings for any of his ex's, or what made him become so heartless? It was ironic how Stephen, who clearly needed therapy never thought twice about it but instead causes (to an extent) Lucy to need therapy.
Despite Lucy's issues, trauma and underlying insecurities I loved to see her build herself up stronger after each breakdown with support from her friends and family. It was satisfying to see her connect the dots and boldly confront Stephen in the final chapters. She was fortunate to have a brilliant support group and access to therapy which helped her to recognize disruptive behaviour patterns and take control of the situation. Sometimes you have to listen to your head and not your heart!
I particularly loved the scene in the car between Lucy and her mother, it was so heart-breaking and emotional - a reminder that it's easy to get wound up in your own thoughts and beliefs without taking any other facts or POV's into consideration. Communication is so so important!
I also appreciated how career was a main focus in the book for both Stephen and Lucy, with the 20's being an age where society expects you to have your life plan figured out it can be confusing and overwhelming with all the options and possibilities. There is nothing wrong with taking longer to achieve goals or trying something different!
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book although it was infuriating at times. It was an easy read with short chapters and covered a lot of real issues; from the impact of having a DUI on a future to the seriousness of driving under any sort of substance influence. The infatuation and twisted secrets had me hooked - I would recommend this book if you want to read about the dark sides to a relationship with the 'wrong one' or even just a twisted holiday read. Please be aware, there are graphic descriptions of disordered eating behaviours, drug/alcohol misuse and death so it may not be suitable for all.
Tell Me Lies is set to be a television series, I can't wait to see the characters come to life!
Rating:
3.75/5
Favourite Quotes:
'It’s funny - when you get what you want, it almost automatically decreases in value.'
'My heart felt empty and full at the same time.'
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