Liane Moriarty

I read and enjoyed Moriarty’s previous books, most of which have a common theme: A life changing event (or a secret) is at the center of the story. This event affects all main characters deeply and quite differently. Throughout the story the reader is given some hints from before, after and during the time of the event. I was not bothered by this style in her earlier novels. But this time it was too much. The continuous going back and forth from ‘before/after/and the day of the barbecue’ was unbearable. At some point, I realized that I was no longer interested in finding out what had happened. Yet, I still finished the book. And that is because of Moriarty’s undeniable skill in creating real life characters and describing their deepest thoughts.… (more)

So at first I wasn't sure how I felt about this book, then halfway through the book, it actually started to get good. However I will say that this book could have been cut by a hundred pages.

I give Moriarty credit for cleverly weaving three completely different lives into one story with a building climax toward the end of the book. Also find that the husband's secret was somewhat predictable before getting to the actual letter.

I will say that this book does make us think about the reality of our situations and the choices we make. What "would have happened" becomes the underlying motto in this book and makes us question our own "what if?" moments in our lives.

Other than that I would say that the ending was quite fitting and the last chapter was actually very well written and cleverly done.

I'm actually interested in reading some of her other works because there is something unique about the way she intertwines different perspectives.… (more)

I loved this book! It was easy to read. It was easy to connect with the nine strangers, despite all their differences and lifestyles. Not everything was so predictable, and I was amazed at several twists in the story. I thought the ending came up a little fast and choppy, as compared to the elaborate plot and storyline, but other than that, it is a great read! I love the fact that it addressed the subject of suicide and provided more information at the end of the book for those who may be suffering as a family member or someone contemplating suicide. If I had to pick what intrigued me the most about the story, it was Masha the director of Tranquillum House. She was definitely like an onion, with layers to uncover about her, her brilliant and unusual mind, and what REALLY deep core made her tick. There is a medical component and even a brain-mind over matter component. Intelligent people, people who like to play detective work and those who just love a good story about people in general without going people-watching to the mall will LOVE this!… (more)

Ordinarily, books that go back and forth from past to present from chapter to chapter drives me insane as I am trying to scramble to determine the storyline. However, with Truly Madly Guilty, even with several couples and a few other characters mentioned, I quickly got into the book. I was amazed at how time after time, Liane Moriarty was able to build suspense at nearly the end of each chapter, then flip to another story. The best way to describe it is like watching a soap opera flip from scene to scene, but this book is way more interesting or intricate than a soap opera. I truly enjoyed learning about the characters. I like the way that the good and the evil of each character was portrayed. I think it really brings home that none of us are perfect and we all make mistakes, but most humans are good creatures who want to do well in this world. This is the first book I have read by Liane, but will be looking for more in the future. Once you get going, you don't want to take a break from this book. ENJOY! Semi-spoiler: nearly all the drama is resolved and the characters live happily ever after. Call me a sentimental fool, but that is my favorite kind of ending!… (more)