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A Touched Trilogy #1
Lie to Me
Phoebe Matlin has always felt broken. While one of her sisters sees the future, and the other can heal people, Phoebe has come to accept that her truth telling gift just doesn't work.
Then her best friend, Tonya, lies to her and Phoebe's gift flares to life. With Tonya pissed at her, being a Truth Teller suddenly doesn't seem like such a great gift. Although, it is nice knowing she was the reason her crush, Nathan, dumped his stalker girlfriend.
But in lies, intention is everything and Tonya's lies are a cry for help. The fear that her friend is covering darker and more serious truths is something Phoebe can't ignore. But knowing when someone is lying is the easy part. Now she has to decide what to do about it. And with Nathan and his doubts about her ability confusing things, finding a way to help Tonya isn't as easy as Phoebe thought it would be.
Then her best friend, Tonya, lies to her and Phoebe's gift flares to life. With Tonya pissed at her, being a Truth Teller suddenly doesn't seem like such a great gift. Although, it is nice knowing she was the reason her crush, Nathan, dumped his stalker girlfriend.
But in lies, intention is everything and Tonya's lies are a cry for help. The fear that her friend is covering darker and more serious truths is something Phoebe can't ignore. But knowing when someone is lying is the easy part. Now she has to decide what to do about it. And with Nathan and his doubts about her ability confusing things, finding a way to help Tonya isn't as easy as Phoebe thought it would be.
208 pages, ebook
First published November 21, 2012
7 people are currently reading
625 people want to read
About the author
Angela Fristoe
18 books184 followersAngela grew up in Alberta, Canada. She dreamed of becoming the next Dian Fossey or Jane Goodall, until she realized she wasn’t all that keen on the outdoors or animals. Instead, she went into education and focused on elementary education and helping struggling readers. Her passion for writing grew gradually after being ignited by The Hunger Game and Twilight crazes. Angela lives on Vancouver Island with her family, where she is pursuing her Masters degree while continuing to write and serve as an instructional coach.
Learn more about Angela on her website angelafristoe.com and her YA book review blog angelafristoe.blogspot.com.
Learn more about Angela on her website angelafristoe.com and her YA book review blog angelafristoe.blogspot.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
April 18, 2017
Fascinating
Triplets each have different abilities. Phoebe has the gift of being able to know when people are lying. So, why doesn't it work? Or does it? This is Phoebe's story! Recommended to everyone 16-up.
Triplets each have different abilities. Phoebe has the gift of being able to know when people are lying. So, why doesn't it work? Or does it? This is Phoebe's story! Recommended to everyone 16-up.
December 16, 2016
I received a copy of this book directly from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
There is so much I want to say about Lie To Me by Angela Fristoe. There was so much to the book that I wasn’t expecting, but in some ways, there was also a lot less.
As far as the technical aspect of the book is concerned, it was well edited. I only ran into one noticeable typo in the entire book, and that’s pretty amazing. The narrative was easy to read and was paced well. I never felt rushed or bogged down. I got sucked into the book right away and I was entertained by what I found there.
The characters themselves were an interesting mix of barely-there stereotypes (like the angry, popular ex-girlfriend) and the amazingly complex (like the main character). Phoebe was a very interesting character in particular. Going into the story I’d read a few negative character reviews of Phoebe—and I kind of get it. She could be a bit of a loose cannon at times, and yes, she could be a bit bratty… but I saw more to her than that.
Phoebe lived in a strange, dynamically volatile household. She was stuck with an overprotective father, a sister that was constantly trying to take all of her very real, but negative feelings away, another sister who could see her future—and often used that information against her, and a grandmother who pried into her past constantly through her ‘gift’. Frankly, I could understand Phoebe’s discontent. She lived in a war zone where she was constantly being bombarded by her family and they gave her very little privacy or consideration. I’d be angry too! As the main character, I found Phoebe flawed, but in a believable and interesting way.
Unfortunately, there were some parts of the story that lacked. Nathan, as a love interested just didn’t cut it for me. I think because there was so much going on in the story outside of the romance, he often got treated as a bit of a side character, and I feel like I didn’t get a chance to really know him as well as I wanted to.
Also, there were so many unanswered questions about Phoebe’s sisters, her friends, and her gift that were never really delved into. I’m sure there will be more about all of those further into the series, but I still can’t help but feel like I missed out on some important information. The entire paranormal aspect of the book was used frequently in the story to spur on the action and drama of the plot, was fairly glossed over in every other way possible.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. It was more complex than I’d expected, and although not perfect, I’m glad I read it.
There is so much I want to say about Lie To Me by Angela Fristoe. There was so much to the book that I wasn’t expecting, but in some ways, there was also a lot less.
As far as the technical aspect of the book is concerned, it was well edited. I only ran into one noticeable typo in the entire book, and that’s pretty amazing. The narrative was easy to read and was paced well. I never felt rushed or bogged down. I got sucked into the book right away and I was entertained by what I found there.
The characters themselves were an interesting mix of barely-there stereotypes (like the angry, popular ex-girlfriend) and the amazingly complex (like the main character). Phoebe was a very interesting character in particular. Going into the story I’d read a few negative character reviews of Phoebe—and I kind of get it. She could be a bit of a loose cannon at times, and yes, she could be a bit bratty… but I saw more to her than that.
Phoebe lived in a strange, dynamically volatile household. She was stuck with an overprotective father, a sister that was constantly trying to take all of her very real, but negative feelings away, another sister who could see her future—and often used that information against her, and a grandmother who pried into her past constantly through her ‘gift’. Frankly, I could understand Phoebe’s discontent. She lived in a war zone where she was constantly being bombarded by her family and they gave her very little privacy or consideration. I’d be angry too! As the main character, I found Phoebe flawed, but in a believable and interesting way.
Unfortunately, there were some parts of the story that lacked. Nathan, as a love interested just didn’t cut it for me. I think because there was so much going on in the story outside of the romance, he often got treated as a bit of a side character, and I feel like I didn’t get a chance to really know him as well as I wanted to.
Also, there were so many unanswered questions about Phoebe’s sisters, her friends, and her gift that were never really delved into. I’m sure there will be more about all of those further into the series, but I still can’t help but feel like I missed out on some important information. The entire paranormal aspect of the book was used frequently in the story to spur on the action and drama of the plot, was fairly glossed over in every other way possible.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. It was more complex than I’d expected, and although not perfect, I’m glad I read it.
May 10, 2015
Phoebe is part of triplet sisters, all three of them have a gift and hers is off course the lamest. It took years for her gift to surface. Now when someone is lying she feels a horrible pain in her belly and knows that someone is not telling the truth.
I wanted to like this story I loved the cover but:
Phoebe was a total selfish bitch
Phoebe is mean to her sisters and grandma
Phoebe is like a twelve year old child
Her love interest in Nathan is pathetic; I don’t know what she sees in him or him in her
The fact that something is going on with her sister Lily but she’s to selfish the check out what’s going on.
There’s no real plot, the pacing is slow
The “big plot” was meh it was anti -climax
I wish the author did some more explaining about the gifts and maybe the good that they could do with them.
I wanted to like this story I loved the cover but:
Phoebe was a total selfish bitch
Phoebe is mean to her sisters and grandma
Phoebe is like a twelve year old child
Her love interest in Nathan is pathetic; I don’t know what she sees in him or him in her
The fact that something is going on with her sister Lily but she’s to selfish the check out what’s going on.
There’s no real plot, the pacing is slow
The “big plot” was meh it was anti -climax
I wish the author did some more explaining about the gifts and maybe the good that they could do with them.
July 13, 2015
Fristoe is an excellent young adult author. Her characterization is spot on, and the pacing of the story is quick and easy to follow. The characters definitely made me smile. Great read.
September 9, 2017
Angela Fristoe writes another fantastic book! Even though there were heavy issues, the plot was great overall. I'm already reading Lily's book! Five glittery stars!
January 16, 2018
Book Review- Lie to Me by Angela Fristoe
Three sisters are born as their mother dies. She gives them each a special name and revealing the powers they will have. Phoebe was the seer of truth. She will have the ability of knowing when someone is lying. Chole is the seer of the future and Lily is a healer.
Both Chloe and Lily have their gifts and use them regularly. Phoebe, on the other hand, doesn’t have hers and feels like a failure. She also feels overwhelmed and angry thinking everyone expects her to be like her mother. Nathan finally enters her life in the way she wants and things are looking up. However when her best friend, Tonya, starts lying to her she has no idea what to do. Her gift is growing stronger but she doesn’t want to drive Tonya away. Phoebe is torn. She fears something bad is happening but doesn’t trust her gift. Those around her aren’t really helping her decide what to do. She almost waits until it’s too late to act and her guilt almost causes her to lose everything.
The storyline was unique in this book. It starts a bit sad then warps into the lives of the sisters who possess their gifts. They are a bit dysfunctional. The girls aren’t as close as they could be. Phoebe has issues with her grandmother and her sister Chloe. She really holds herself apart from them. The author created a lot of tension in the family. It truly drives the story.
Phoebe is struggling with her gift and trying to do what she feels is right. Her stubbornness is front and center. She is definitely part of her problem. Her family is the first to point that out. The story is littered with family issues and difficult relationships. There is a lot going on that the reader isn’t aware of until the author reveals it. Some of it is shocking and some remains mysterious. It will be interesting to see where the author takes it in the next book. I give it a 4 out of 5.
Three sisters are born as their mother dies. She gives them each a special name and revealing the powers they will have. Phoebe was the seer of truth. She will have the ability of knowing when someone is lying. Chole is the seer of the future and Lily is a healer.
Both Chloe and Lily have their gifts and use them regularly. Phoebe, on the other hand, doesn’t have hers and feels like a failure. She also feels overwhelmed and angry thinking everyone expects her to be like her mother. Nathan finally enters her life in the way she wants and things are looking up. However when her best friend, Tonya, starts lying to her she has no idea what to do. Her gift is growing stronger but she doesn’t want to drive Tonya away. Phoebe is torn. She fears something bad is happening but doesn’t trust her gift. Those around her aren’t really helping her decide what to do. She almost waits until it’s too late to act and her guilt almost causes her to lose everything.
The storyline was unique in this book. It starts a bit sad then warps into the lives of the sisters who possess their gifts. They are a bit dysfunctional. The girls aren’t as close as they could be. Phoebe has issues with her grandmother and her sister Chloe. She really holds herself apart from them. The author created a lot of tension in the family. It truly drives the story.
Phoebe is struggling with her gift and trying to do what she feels is right. Her stubbornness is front and center. She is definitely part of her problem. Her family is the first to point that out. The story is littered with family issues and difficult relationships. There is a lot going on that the reader isn’t aware of until the author reveals it. Some of it is shocking and some remains mysterious. It will be interesting to see where the author takes it in the next book. I give it a 4 out of 5.
November 7, 2018
I really and truly didn't like this book at all. I forced myself to finish reading it, i got so bad and boring for me. It starts off with the birth of Phoebe, Lily and i can't remember the last one. This is how much i forgot since i just finished this book today. They mother dies but was not explained on why she die and what was wrong with her.
Phoebe is part of triplet sisters, all three of them have a gift and hers is off course the lamest out everything else that the author could have gave her. Then it took years for her lame-gift to surface. Now when someone is lying she feels a horrible pain in her belly and knows that someone is not telling the truth. Great way... not!
Pros
Triplets
Powers- Not liking Phoebe's one
Cover
Cons
Phoebe- everything about her bugs the shit out of me.
Her best friend, that is a idiot.
Her love interest in Nathan is pathetic; I don’t know what she sees in him or him in her. Idiotency attracts them.
There’s no real plot, the pacing is slow.
The “big plot” was meh it was anti -climax
This book wasn't for me at all. I'm not going to continue with the last two books either.
Phoebe is part of triplet sisters, all three of them have a gift and hers is off course the lamest out everything else that the author could have gave her. Then it took years for her lame-gift to surface. Now when someone is lying she feels a horrible pain in her belly and knows that someone is not telling the truth. Great way... not!
Pros
Triplets
Powers- Not liking Phoebe's one
Cover
Cons
Phoebe- everything about her bugs the shit out of me.
Her best friend, that is a idiot.
Her love interest in Nathan is pathetic; I don’t know what she sees in him or him in her. Idiotency attracts them.
There’s no real plot, the pacing is slow.
The “big plot” was meh it was anti -climax
This book wasn't for me at all. I'm not going to continue with the last two books either.
November 7, 2017
Great YA Series
This is a good first book in a great YA series. The book is character driven rather than plot driven, so the characters are exceptional, well drawn and engaging. The sister first encountered in this book is the least attractive and even she drew me in. Great start Ms. Fristoe.
This is a good first book in a great YA series. The book is character driven rather than plot driven, so the characters are exceptional, well drawn and engaging. The sister first encountered in this book is the least attractive and even she drew me in. Great start Ms. Fristoe.
May 30, 2018
I love this & I can't wait for more.
I will be also leaving a review on Goodreads @ Amazon.
And letting everyone know about it.
So i gave it a 5 Stars.
I will be also leaving a review on Goodreads @ Amazon.
And letting everyone know about it.
So i gave it a 5 Stars.
March 4, 2017
Lie to Me by Angela Fristoe seems to be a terrific beginning to and interesting series. I love the characters and the plot line. Fristoe does not back away from the tough stuff, even though these are teenage characters. By facing them head on, she brings more depth to her characters. At first, there is very little to love about Phoebe, except her snarky sense of humor, but she comes together and grows with the story. Happily anticipating reading more in this series.
June 19, 2016
This review was originally posted to Jen in Bookland
Lie To Me was an okay read, but I think I am a bit too old for it. I read young adult and normally it is fine, but this one the characters were a little...too young. It is just written for a younger audience.
Phoebe is one of triplets who all have gifts. Only hers has never come in. Her sisters have always had their powers since birth, but Phoebe has often felt like the odd one out. She is supposed to be able to tell if people are telling the truth, but she has never been able to before. So she is just like a normal teenage girl. She has had a crush on Nathan forever, but he picked another girl over her way back when. Only now it looks like he is single again...will that mean that she will finally have her chance with him?
And what is going on with her bff Tonya? When Tonya lies to her one day suddenly she can tell. Suddenly her gift seems to be working...only maybe that is not a good thing. Tonya gets super angry that Phoebe calls her out on her lies, in a nicer way, but still. Now Phoebe has to figure out why Tonya is lying and what to do about it.
Through the story we get to see Nathan and Phoebe grow closer, Phoebe try and figure out how to catch Tonya's boyfriend being untruthful, and how to help her friend. This was an alright read, but like I said I think I was a bit too old for it. There were some good after school special moments about abuse and helping victims of it, but it was just...not for me really. Phoebe is an angry teenager and lashes out a lot and just acts like a teenager.
One thing that did bug me was that the grandmother and everyone kept telling Phoebe she needs to learn to control her gift, but she never does. It was just like every now and again the grandmother would pop up to try and help Phoebe, and Phoebe would push her away and nothing really bad happened as a result of her gift. I kept expecting something to, but it was just...if she needs to learn to control her gift than maybe she should have? Maybe that should have been part of the story? I don't know. It just bugged me.
So overall an alright read but for an actual teenager.
Lie To Me was an okay read, but I think I am a bit too old for it. I read young adult and normally it is fine, but this one the characters were a little...too young. It is just written for a younger audience.
Phoebe is one of triplets who all have gifts. Only hers has never come in. Her sisters have always had their powers since birth, but Phoebe has often felt like the odd one out. She is supposed to be able to tell if people are telling the truth, but she has never been able to before. So she is just like a normal teenage girl. She has had a crush on Nathan forever, but he picked another girl over her way back when. Only now it looks like he is single again...will that mean that she will finally have her chance with him?
And what is going on with her bff Tonya? When Tonya lies to her one day suddenly she can tell. Suddenly her gift seems to be working...only maybe that is not a good thing. Tonya gets super angry that Phoebe calls her out on her lies, in a nicer way, but still. Now Phoebe has to figure out why Tonya is lying and what to do about it.
Through the story we get to see Nathan and Phoebe grow closer, Phoebe try and figure out how to catch Tonya's boyfriend being untruthful, and how to help her friend. This was an alright read, but like I said I think I was a bit too old for it. There were some good after school special moments about abuse and helping victims of it, but it was just...not for me really. Phoebe is an angry teenager and lashes out a lot and just acts like a teenager.
One thing that did bug me was that the grandmother and everyone kept telling Phoebe she needs to learn to control her gift, but she never does. It was just like every now and again the grandmother would pop up to try and help Phoebe, and Phoebe would push her away and nothing really bad happened as a result of her gift. I kept expecting something to, but it was just...if she needs to learn to control her gift than maybe she should have? Maybe that should have been part of the story? I don't know. It just bugged me.
So overall an alright read but for an actual teenager.
December 18, 2012
I wasn't sure what to expect when starting Lie to Me. The concept sounded interesting and I figured I'd settle in for a fun and light YA paranormal read. I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised by the depth of the story and how the author didn't shy away from tacking tough issues. The characters were relatable and although the plot had paranormal aspects, it had a very contemporary feel.
Phoebe isn't very likable at the start of the book. She's mouthy and puts up a wall around herself. I liked Phoebe's tough girl attitude, but I could imagine some readers being put off from it. I would recommend giving her a chance because she definitely grows on you as the story progresses. I really came to like her by the end of the novel.
I never read a story about a truth telling gift and this idea really made the book stand out in my mind. The paranormal elements of the plot were really well done. The gifts were easy to understand and didn't have a set of complex rules to go along with them. I'm interested in reading subsequent books from the perspectives of Phoebe's sisters. I especially liked Lily and I'm curious to see what secrets she's hiding from her sisters.
The love interest wasn't my favorite character in the book. I just felt he was too weak for a strong girl like Phoebe. However, I enjoyed how the author depicted him in a realistic manner. Readers won't have a hard time imagining Nathan as someone they knew in high school.
There are several different plots going on in Lie to Me. Over the course of the book, Phoebe is dealing with her complicated friendships, a budding romance with her crush, a school rival and coming to terms with her emerging gift. I liked how the book gave a complete snapshot of Phoebe's life. This kept me interested enough to finish the book in only a couple of sittings. By the end, I was on the edge of my seat as Phoebe tries to help a friend that she's know is lying to her.
I would definitely recommend this book to YA readers. The series had plenty of potential and I only see it getting better and better.
Rating; 4.5/5 Stars
Phoebe isn't very likable at the start of the book. She's mouthy and puts up a wall around herself. I liked Phoebe's tough girl attitude, but I could imagine some readers being put off from it. I would recommend giving her a chance because she definitely grows on you as the story progresses. I really came to like her by the end of the novel.
I never read a story about a truth telling gift and this idea really made the book stand out in my mind. The paranormal elements of the plot were really well done. The gifts were easy to understand and didn't have a set of complex rules to go along with them. I'm interested in reading subsequent books from the perspectives of Phoebe's sisters. I especially liked Lily and I'm curious to see what secrets she's hiding from her sisters.
The love interest wasn't my favorite character in the book. I just felt he was too weak for a strong girl like Phoebe. However, I enjoyed how the author depicted him in a realistic manner. Readers won't have a hard time imagining Nathan as someone they knew in high school.
There are several different plots going on in Lie to Me. Over the course of the book, Phoebe is dealing with her complicated friendships, a budding romance with her crush, a school rival and coming to terms with her emerging gift. I liked how the book gave a complete snapshot of Phoebe's life. This kept me interested enough to finish the book in only a couple of sittings. By the end, I was on the edge of my seat as Phoebe tries to help a friend that she's know is lying to her.
I would definitely recommend this book to YA readers. The series had plenty of potential and I only see it getting better and better.
Rating; 4.5/5 Stars
February 17, 2013
ORIGINAL REVIEW AT: LITTLE BOOK STAR
Rate: 3.5/5
Phoebe Matlin is a triplet. Her other sisters, Chloe and Lily had their gifts earlier than Phoebe. Chloe can see the future, and Lily can heal people. The story was really unexpected. It isn’t a hard core paranormal book. The story is practically 50% about how Phoebe takes in her truth telling gift, and 50% about her school life (the drama, boys, the enemy). I was expecting Phoebe, the main character, to be sort of like a shy type since she’s the only one left in her family who didn’t have her power. Nope. She was very outgoing and just your high school girl who payed more attention to drama and boys. Lie To Me was really an interesting and fun read! I liked how Phoebe’s school life tied in with the discovery of her gift. It’s 1st person point of view with Phoebe being the narrator.
The problem that I had though is that after the prologue, things got kind of confusing until I passed a few chapters where I realized what happened. Also, there wasn’t really an explanation of why Phoebe’s special talent came in late. I think it would be cooler if there was an explanation or something and how their family acquired special gifts. I do like everything else though. Finding out whether Phoebe’s best friend’s boyfriend was telling the truth or a lie kept me reading on. I also enjoyed reading how Phoebe, her friends and her sisters would hang out and watch movies etc. but then something would happen… dun dun dun.
The ending though, oh my gosh. CLIFF HANGER. I was shocked that it just ended like that! I feel like most teenagers would relate to this book. It consists of having fun, living the high school life with some paranormal elements. I recommend this if you’re up for a fun, light paranormal read!
Rate: 3.5/5
Phoebe Matlin is a triplet. Her other sisters, Chloe and Lily had their gifts earlier than Phoebe. Chloe can see the future, and Lily can heal people. The story was really unexpected. It isn’t a hard core paranormal book. The story is practically 50% about how Phoebe takes in her truth telling gift, and 50% about her school life (the drama, boys, the enemy). I was expecting Phoebe, the main character, to be sort of like a shy type since she’s the only one left in her family who didn’t have her power. Nope. She was very outgoing and just your high school girl who payed more attention to drama and boys. Lie To Me was really an interesting and fun read! I liked how Phoebe’s school life tied in with the discovery of her gift. It’s 1st person point of view with Phoebe being the narrator.
The problem that I had though is that after the prologue, things got kind of confusing until I passed a few chapters where I realized what happened. Also, there wasn’t really an explanation of why Phoebe’s special talent came in late. I think it would be cooler if there was an explanation or something and how their family acquired special gifts. I do like everything else though. Finding out whether Phoebe’s best friend’s boyfriend was telling the truth or a lie kept me reading on. I also enjoyed reading how Phoebe, her friends and her sisters would hang out and watch movies etc. but then something would happen… dun dun dun.
The ending though, oh my gosh. CLIFF HANGER. I was shocked that it just ended like that! I feel like most teenagers would relate to this book. It consists of having fun, living the high school life with some paranormal elements. I recommend this if you’re up for a fun, light paranormal read!
August 21, 2013
We meet Phoebe, the heroine, as her lie-detecting abilities are starting to finally awaken. Her sisters have had powers since they were infants (seeing the future and healing), but for some reason it's taken Phoebe this long to come into hers. Yet the powers in this story felt more like an afterthought. The book came across as a harlequin romance with cliche teen events and a side note for awareness of the signs of abusive relationships. Some of the cliches were: hating school, cursing, fighting jealous ex-girlfriends, unchaperoned parties, under-aged drinking, making out with a "hot" boyfriend, etc. The foul language used was unnecessary, and showed how very uneducated the characters were.
Phoebe was not a very likable MC. She lied a lot, so apparently her "truth telling" ability doesn't apply to herself. Her relationship was baseless - no grounds for love were explained other than he was 'hot' and flirty. She blamed others for her own faults and didn't take responsibility until it was forced upon her. Maybe that makes her more human, but when I read, I'd rather a main character I can believe in. With Phoebe, I wondered how she even had friends being so spiteful. Especially considering one didn't need lie detecting powers to see the truth about the guy her friend was with. It was obvious from the get-go.
Although she says she & her sisters are triplets. The way they are portrayed, they come across as being different ages in different grades, since they're never really seen together. Also stated was that her sister Lily had been dating for 4 years. Her dad actually allowed them to date since they were 13? I find that hard to believe.
Sadly the plot is threadbare, grasping for drama, and contains way too much normalcy to be called "different." From the preview I read of the sequel, told from Lily's point of view, that looks much more enjoyable than the first novel.
Note: I won a free copy on Library Things for a review.
Phoebe was not a very likable MC. She lied a lot, so apparently her "truth telling" ability doesn't apply to herself. Her relationship was baseless - no grounds for love were explained other than he was 'hot' and flirty. She blamed others for her own faults and didn't take responsibility until it was forced upon her. Maybe that makes her more human, but when I read, I'd rather a main character I can believe in. With Phoebe, I wondered how she even had friends being so spiteful. Especially considering one didn't need lie detecting powers to see the truth about the guy her friend was with. It was obvious from the get-go.
Although she says she & her sisters are triplets. The way they are portrayed, they come across as being different ages in different grades, since they're never really seen together. Also stated was that her sister Lily had been dating for 4 years. Her dad actually allowed them to date since they were 13? I find that hard to believe.
Sadly the plot is threadbare, grasping for drama, and contains way too much normalcy to be called "different." From the preview I read of the sequel, told from Lily's point of view, that looks much more enjoyable than the first novel.
Note: I won a free copy on Library Things for a review.
December 8, 2014
I found this YA book in a bundle named Pandora. So far the books have all been very good. Not all of the books are YA, they graduate to adult books.
Michael and Zoe are in her hospital room. She has delivered triplet girls. She asks for the girls to be brought to her one at a time so she can name them. Zoe and her family have gifts. First girl she names Phoebe and says she will be a truth teller. Michael knows this is a difficult gift and few have it. And this book is Phoebe's story. The second girl is named Chloe and she will be a Seer. The 3rd is Lily and a Healer. Mom dies in the hospital after naming the girls. The story continues with the girls in high school. Chloe is known for her predictions of people's future and Lily for her healing ability. Phoebe feels like a freak as her gift isn't manifesting. Phoebe's best friend Tonya is dating someone from out of town. Tonya lives with her grandmother and Phoebe has been lying to the grandmother to cover for Tonya's dating and overnights with her boy friend Trevor. It's New Year's Eve and the girls are going to a party. Chloe and Lily go with their dates. Phoebe is meeting Nathan there, she is not sure what their status is. Trevor gets in a fight with Dylan (Lily's boyfriend) at the party and Dylan is Nathan's best friend. Phoebe's gift starts giving her stomach aches when she hears a lie, but not all the time. Phoebe's on and off again gift tells her that Trevor is abusing Tonya. Can she save her friend? Is Nathan as good as he seems to be? Why are some of Chloe's predictions not coming true? Why is Lily so exhausted, could Dylan be stealing her energy?
I really enjoyed this YA novel. It deals with all the problems of High School - dating, abuse, sex, classes, truth and lies, jealousy. Then add in the gifted girls and their extended family. I would suggest this book be read by anyone in high school, or anyone who has ever been to high school.
Michael and Zoe are in her hospital room. She has delivered triplet girls. She asks for the girls to be brought to her one at a time so she can name them. Zoe and her family have gifts. First girl she names Phoebe and says she will be a truth teller. Michael knows this is a difficult gift and few have it. And this book is Phoebe's story. The second girl is named Chloe and she will be a Seer. The 3rd is Lily and a Healer. Mom dies in the hospital after naming the girls. The story continues with the girls in high school. Chloe is known for her predictions of people's future and Lily for her healing ability. Phoebe feels like a freak as her gift isn't manifesting. Phoebe's best friend Tonya is dating someone from out of town. Tonya lives with her grandmother and Phoebe has been lying to the grandmother to cover for Tonya's dating and overnights with her boy friend Trevor. It's New Year's Eve and the girls are going to a party. Chloe and Lily go with their dates. Phoebe is meeting Nathan there, she is not sure what their status is. Trevor gets in a fight with Dylan (Lily's boyfriend) at the party and Dylan is Nathan's best friend. Phoebe's gift starts giving her stomach aches when she hears a lie, but not all the time. Phoebe's on and off again gift tells her that Trevor is abusing Tonya. Can she save her friend? Is Nathan as good as he seems to be? Why are some of Chloe's predictions not coming true? Why is Lily so exhausted, could Dylan be stealing her energy?
I really enjoyed this YA novel. It deals with all the problems of High School - dating, abuse, sex, classes, truth and lies, jealousy. Then add in the gifted girls and their extended family. I would suggest this book be read by anyone in high school, or anyone who has ever been to high school.
May 2, 2015
When Phoebe, Chloe, and Lily Matlin were born, their mother, who died shortly after their birth, named their special powers: Truth telling, Seeing, and Healing. While her sisters recognized and were able to use their powers from an early age, Phoebe was in high school before her ability to ‘tell truth’ manifested itself, and it did so in a way that most complicated her teen existence.
In Lie to Me by Angela Fristoe the reader follows Phoebe as she deals with the discovery of her hidden ability, and its impact on her friends. Life is never normal for a teenager, but for one of the ‘Freaky Matlins,’ discovering that she has the ability to tell when people are lying complicates her life beyond belief. When her best friend hooks up with a boy that Phoebe ‘suspects,’ but who she can’t catch in a lie, it not only threatens her sanity, it threatens her relationship with Nathan, a boy that she’s had a crush on since she first met him.
A story that is sometimes funny, often filled with angst, Fristoe takes us into the life of an American teen, albeit a teen with a unique ability, and keeps us interested until the end. The ending of Lie to Me was a twist. Although Phoebe satisfactorily settles her own situation, the book closes with a bit of a cliff-hanger regarding her sister, Lily. Thank goodness, Fristoe has written sequels, so we can expect to follow along with each of the sisters in future books.
Kudos to the author for a fascinating ride.
In Lie to Me by Angela Fristoe the reader follows Phoebe as she deals with the discovery of her hidden ability, and its impact on her friends. Life is never normal for a teenager, but for one of the ‘Freaky Matlins,’ discovering that she has the ability to tell when people are lying complicates her life beyond belief. When her best friend hooks up with a boy that Phoebe ‘suspects,’ but who she can’t catch in a lie, it not only threatens her sanity, it threatens her relationship with Nathan, a boy that she’s had a crush on since she first met him.
A story that is sometimes funny, often filled with angst, Fristoe takes us into the life of an American teen, albeit a teen with a unique ability, and keeps us interested until the end. The ending of Lie to Me was a twist. Although Phoebe satisfactorily settles her own situation, the book closes with a bit of a cliff-hanger regarding her sister, Lily. Thank goodness, Fristoe has written sequels, so we can expect to follow along with each of the sisters in future books.
Kudos to the author for a fascinating ride.
December 12, 2012
A very promising read for the first of three in the Touched Trilogy.
Loved the premise of this series and can't wait to see what Phoebe's sisters will bring to the Trilogy. Fristoe adds originality to the young adult genre with the Matlin triplets, born on the day of their mother's death, and all destined to have extraordinary gifts. Chloe will see the future. Lily will be a healer. And Phoebe will know when someone is lying.
Phoebe takes center stage in the first book in the Trilogy. Imagine being a teen who can tell when her friends are not telling the truth? Problem is, while her sister's gifts have always been noticeable, Phoebe's has not presented itself yet, and when it finally does, Phoebe's life will never be the same.
An excellent book for this relatively new author, one I couldn't put down. Ms. Fristoe, I eagerly await book two in the Touched Trilogy.
Susan Stec, author of The Grateful Undead series
Loved the premise of this series and can't wait to see what Phoebe's sisters will bring to the Trilogy. Fristoe adds originality to the young adult genre with the Matlin triplets, born on the day of their mother's death, and all destined to have extraordinary gifts. Chloe will see the future. Lily will be a healer. And Phoebe will know when someone is lying.
Phoebe takes center stage in the first book in the Trilogy. Imagine being a teen who can tell when her friends are not telling the truth? Problem is, while her sister's gifts have always been noticeable, Phoebe's has not presented itself yet, and when it finally does, Phoebe's life will never be the same.
An excellent book for this relatively new author, one I couldn't put down. Ms. Fristoe, I eagerly await book two in the Touched Trilogy.
Susan Stec, author of The Grateful Undead series
December 16, 2012
I loved the premise: triplets each with a different gift, and the fact the Phoebe’s gift is one that is not common in the typical paranormal reads – she knows when people are lying.
The writing was good. The pacing was great. The author absolutely nailed the relationships. She was able to convey the complex relationships between sisters and the awkward crush/new romance relationship.
I was not expecting such a powerful and important message to be embedded in a paranormal teen novel but I’m happy that the author took the risk and addressed something important. While some of the content was mature, I think this book is perfect for its intended audience: teens/young adults.
I’m definitely interested in continuing the trilogy.
I received a copy of this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
The writing was good. The pacing was great. The author absolutely nailed the relationships. She was able to convey the complex relationships between sisters and the awkward crush/new romance relationship.
I was not expecting such a powerful and important message to be embedded in a paranormal teen novel but I’m happy that the author took the risk and addressed something important. While some of the content was mature, I think this book is perfect for its intended audience: teens/young adults.
I’m definitely interested in continuing the trilogy.
I received a copy of this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
February 13, 2016
It was interesting, and I know it's not everyone's cup of tea, but I sure did like it and while it was a little bit childish and immature how Phoebe acted, I was glad that at least we got introduced to her abilities and saw that she matured and accepted herself at the end of the book.
I'm sort of hesitant to read about the 2 sisters tho, Chloe and Lily, in the next 2 books of the trilogy since it seems like their problems Gifts come with a lot of baggage. (Plus seriously?: I assume Lily ends up with Micah in the 2nd book but she's already dating Dylan, so either it's a love triangle (which I hate) or it's a cheating on boyfriend/new guy steals the girl which I also hate and will automatically DNF it.)
On the other hand, Chloe's story seems more promising but also could be complicated...
I'm sort of hesitant to read about the 2 sisters tho, Chloe and Lily, in the next 2 books of the trilogy since it seems like their problems Gifts come with a lot of baggage. (Plus seriously?: I assume Lily ends up with Micah in the 2nd book but she's already dating Dylan, so either it's a love triangle (which I hate) or it's a cheating on boyfriend/new guy steals the girl which I also hate and will automatically DNF it.)
On the other hand, Chloe's story seems more promising but also could be complicated...
December 1, 2012
This is a wonderful book with emotions everyone who has been a teenager can relate to. Phoebe is a triplet. She and her sisters each have a special talent. Phoebe is supposed to be able to tell when people are lying, but it doesn't work. Her angst is relatable as she watches one sister heal people and the other tell the future. Everyone knows what it's like to be the one who 'isn't special.' Then Phoebe's gift kicks in and she has to convince others that she really can tell when people are lying. Of course she overhears very painful lies and feels helpless to do anything about it. This is a story about family and friends being tested in a unique way.
April 11, 2016
2.5 stars: A fairly fast read, but nothing special. There are 3 sisters with special gifts, and each book in the trilogy tells one of their stories. Phoebe, the main character in this book, is a 'Truth-Teller' as in she can tell when someone is lying to her. I feel like this book would have been more interesting if it delved deeper into her powers, instead of devolving into some high school drama about a jealous ex gf and Phoebe playing hot and cold with a guy she liked. The author does tackle the serious issues of domestic violence and abusive relationships, but overall the plot fell flat.
December 13, 2014
Lie to Me, A Touch Trilogy book 1 by Angela Fristoe
4 1/2 stars
Triplet sisters with different gifts. Phoebe has always had trouble believing her gift actually worked, and that it would actually be useful. When her gift finally started to work she didn't know how to deal with it.
The relationships and behaviors of all the characters were very believable and well written. I really enjoyed this book. I will gladly read book two.
It was a good YA book.
4 1/2 stars
Triplet sisters with different gifts. Phoebe has always had trouble believing her gift actually worked, and that it would actually be useful. When her gift finally started to work she didn't know how to deal with it.
The relationships and behaviors of all the characters were very believable and well written. I really enjoyed this book. I will gladly read book two.
It was a good YA book.
September 8, 2015
I'd feel too generous giving it 4 stars, but I really did enjoy it. I loved the writing style. However, it did feel a lot like a contemporary to me, than a paranormal. If you take the paranormal elements out, it would be a contemporary. I'm not complaining, I really liked the plot. The only thing that stopped me giving it 4 stars was Phoebe, the protagonist, towards the end. She really annoyed me about her relationship. However, I got passed that.
November 14, 2014
I read this book as a part of the Pandora Collection.
I really liked this book. I read it cold (no blurb) and loved the story line. It wasn't fast moving but moved along at a nice pace that you didn't get bored. Phoebe was frustrating at times - as any teenager can be. Really looking forward to the next book in the trilogy from the other sisters point of view.
I really liked this book. I read it cold (no blurb) and loved the story line. It wasn't fast moving but moved along at a nice pace that you didn't get bored. Phoebe was frustrating at times - as any teenager can be. Really looking forward to the next book in the trilogy from the other sisters point of view.
February 21, 2015
Received this book as part of the Amazon Kindle compilation - Pandora but will be reviewing it as an individual book.
Not my cup of tea. The teenage female angst drove me crazy. I almost put it down and walked away. The only reason I finished this book is because I'm stubborn and it wasn't too long a story.
Not my cup of tea. The teenage female angst drove me crazy. I almost put it down and walked away. The only reason I finished this book is because I'm stubborn and it wasn't too long a story.
April 10, 2016
This is the story of three triplets and each one has a special power. Fast paced story line and you never confuse the characters as they all have their own unique characteristics. The author weaved a fantastic web. This is a new series for me and I enjoyed every single minute of it. I am looking forward to reading books 2 and 3.
September 1, 2016
The first thing that attracted me to this book was the front cover, beautiful and stunning. But it was what was inside totally got me hooked, the story of Phoebe and Nathan was very well written. Great choice of characters and a captivating story line.Definitely a spectacular book and a must read.
February 18, 2013
A must read!! I cannot wait until to read the rest of the trilogy.
April 1, 2013
Interesting start to what seems to be a trilogy for young adults of three sisters (triplets) with special gifts ...
December 31, 2013
Surprisingly good book! I loved all the characters. Quick, easy read and sometimes that's what we need.
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