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Lies We Tell Ourselves
Presley Waterman is a rescuer: of animals, of businesses, of people. Like the stray cat she's allergic to, but continues to care for. Like her small-town newspaper, a business that’s been dying a slow death for the better part of a decade. And like Micah. Her best friend and the man she has loved since they were kids, back when no one else cared.
As for him…
Micah Leven loves Presley. She’s the girl who’s always been there to help, the one who knows all the ugly things about him and makes him believe he can be a better man, the one who will never leave because she’s promised over and over.
But he also loves Mara.
Mara is his ideal. She’s the dream he conjured up as a boy and never wavered from. She’s beautiful, ambitious, driven, a fellow newscaster at his Atlanta station, and the perfect asset for the life he’s always wanted. Together, they could conquer the world and their respective careers. Even better, with Mara he could prove that he did—in fact—finally amount to something. Maybe then his father would be proud.
There are just a few things Presley and Micah have both forgotten. One, just because you rescue someone doesn’t mean they’ll love you for it. Two, some dreams disappear when reality wakes you up. Three, the only way to silence lies is to face the truth head-on.
This is the story of the man torn between two existences, the woman who finally took the choice away from him, and what happens when you stop listening to lies once and for all.
Even if the biggest liar is you.
As for him…
Micah Leven loves Presley. She’s the girl who’s always been there to help, the one who knows all the ugly things about him and makes him believe he can be a better man, the one who will never leave because she’s promised over and over.
But he also loves Mara.
Mara is his ideal. She’s the dream he conjured up as a boy and never wavered from. She’s beautiful, ambitious, driven, a fellow newscaster at his Atlanta station, and the perfect asset for the life he’s always wanted. Together, they could conquer the world and their respective careers. Even better, with Mara he could prove that he did—in fact—finally amount to something. Maybe then his father would be proud.
There are just a few things Presley and Micah have both forgotten. One, just because you rescue someone doesn’t mean they’ll love you for it. Two, some dreams disappear when reality wakes you up. Three, the only way to silence lies is to face the truth head-on.
This is the story of the man torn between two existences, the woman who finally took the choice away from him, and what happens when you stop listening to lies once and for all.
Even if the biggest liar is you.
303 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 20, 2018
641 people are currently reading
631 people want to read
About the author
Amy Matayo
26 books500 followersAmy Matayo is an award winning author of The Wedding Game, Love Gone Wild, Sway, In Tune With Love, A Painted Summer, and The End of the World. She graduated with barely passing grades from John Brown University with a degree in Journalism. But don't feel sorry for her--she's super proud of that degree and all the ways she hasn't put it to good use.
She laughs often, cries easily, feels deeply, and loves hard. She lives in Arkansas with her husband and four kids and is working on her next novel.
www.amymatayo
Twitter: @amymatayo
Instagram: @amymatayo.author
Facebook: www.facebook.com/amymatayo
She laughs often, cries easily, feels deeply, and loves hard. She lives in Arkansas with her husband and four kids and is working on her next novel.
www.amymatayo
Twitter: @amymatayo
Instagram: @amymatayo.author
Facebook: www.facebook.com/amymatayo
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
September 20, 2018
I was not sure what to expect with this book since the other books I've read from the author have ranged from humorous to raw and gritty, always with a bit of an edge. I'm happy to say that I was sucked in from page one, and a lovely balance was struck between subtle humor, flawed characters with loveable quirks, and a raw vulnerability that brought emotion to the surface, with that trademark edge, of course ;) The manner in which the story is told is creative and unique- the way viewpoints switch, the choice of childhood flashbacks, how the plot twists are revealed, and the longest and best epilogue ever. Seriously, all epilogues may just be ruined for me. (I almost had a heart attack when I swiped to the next page on my Kindle Paperwhite and it said EPILOGUE. Then I glanced down and saw that I was 86% of the way through so there was time for lots more good stuff... unless I was being tricked because there was a crapload of promo stuff at the end... All those thoughts ran through my head in a split second, but I just dove right in and prayed for things to work out! And it was executed excellently; I was filled with anticipation and suspense).
Even though I didn't like the way Micah often treated Presley, it was hard to be mad at him because the author skillfully allows the reader to witness the emotional abuse from his childhood and teenage years, which makes it easier to understand his fears about his relationship with her and why his priorities are so screwed up. Woven in is the foundation of their friendship and the admirable qualities about him that made me not question why Presley loves him or puts up with him. It was also hard to want Presley to do what she needed to do for her own emotional health and sanity, because you don't want anyone to ever leave him again- you know what that would do to him. The dynamics of their friendship were slowly revealed by showing the spectrum of conflict, loyalty, desperation, humor, attraction, angst, and hope. (As a side note, I have to say it was gratifying for therapy and counseling to be portrayed in such a positive and helpful light. Eliminating the stigma will go a long way in more people reaching out for the help that they need and is available). This book is unforgettable with its deep and profound thoughts as Presley and Micah sort through their past, present, and futures to discover what the lies are and how to empower themselves to take hold of the truth. As I finished the book and experienced a satisfying book hangover, thinking about what I just read prompted self-reflection of some of the lies I tell myself and by recognizing them as such, I felt encouraged to take action and not let them hold me back from accomplishing my goals anymore. It actually felt therapeutic and pretty great to have that mental breakthrough with something I've been struggling with.
Highly recommend!!!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
Even though I didn't like the way Micah often treated Presley, it was hard to be mad at him because the author skillfully allows the reader to witness the emotional abuse from his childhood and teenage years, which makes it easier to understand his fears about his relationship with her and why his priorities are so screwed up. Woven in is the foundation of their friendship and the admirable qualities about him that made me not question why Presley loves him or puts up with him. It was also hard to want Presley to do what she needed to do for her own emotional health and sanity, because you don't want anyone to ever leave him again- you know what that would do to him. The dynamics of their friendship were slowly revealed by showing the spectrum of conflict, loyalty, desperation, humor, attraction, angst, and hope. (As a side note, I have to say it was gratifying for therapy and counseling to be portrayed in such a positive and helpful light. Eliminating the stigma will go a long way in more people reaching out for the help that they need and is available). This book is unforgettable with its deep and profound thoughts as Presley and Micah sort through their past, present, and futures to discover what the lies are and how to empower themselves to take hold of the truth. As I finished the book and experienced a satisfying book hangover, thinking about what I just read prompted self-reflection of some of the lies I tell myself and by recognizing them as such, I felt encouraged to take action and not let them hold me back from accomplishing my goals anymore. It actually felt therapeutic and pretty great to have that mental breakthrough with something I've been struggling with.
Highly recommend!!!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
September 18, 2018
What lies do you tell yourself? Some lies are told (and believed) because of what others say about you and they become such a part of you, they're nearly impossible to set aside. It's simple--the truth hurts, but not nearly as much as the lies. This story pierced my soul, swiftly and deep, and left a lasting impact on me.
Sometimes a gritty and raw story needs to be told in a visibly emotional way. Don't get me wrong--I love the fluffy, sweet stories, but the powerful and realistic ones have a solid place in my heart and that's exactly what Lies We Tell Ourselves is. And the message is exactly what I (and I'm sure others) desperately needed to hear--it's very powerful and I can't stop thinking about it.
Micah and Presley have a history and the way they helped each other, both past and present, was heartening and amazing. They are "that person" for each other, but the lies they tell themselves threaten to rip apart and destroy their relationship, especially when Mara enters the picture. We all tell ourselves lies, but when we start to believe them is when the trouble begins. I love the way these two are able to shed their pasts and march on to fulfill their destinies.
Speaking of lies, I'm not going to tell one when I say that Micah was kind of a jerk throughout a good chunk of the book, but he's the type of guy that I love to hate and hate to love. Presley is adorable and I admired her when she finally stood her ground, despite the aching pain it caused. The feels are real with this one and I loved every single minute--even the extremely painful ones.
Content: talk of physical/emotional abuse (moderate); mild+ romance (some innuendo, kissing); mild+ language (a handful of Bible swears and 2-3 slightly stronger words)
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Sometimes a gritty and raw story needs to be told in a visibly emotional way. Don't get me wrong--I love the fluffy, sweet stories, but the powerful and realistic ones have a solid place in my heart and that's exactly what Lies We Tell Ourselves is. And the message is exactly what I (and I'm sure others) desperately needed to hear--it's very powerful and I can't stop thinking about it.
Micah and Presley have a history and the way they helped each other, both past and present, was heartening and amazing. They are "that person" for each other, but the lies they tell themselves threaten to rip apart and destroy their relationship, especially when Mara enters the picture. We all tell ourselves lies, but when we start to believe them is when the trouble begins. I love the way these two are able to shed their pasts and march on to fulfill their destinies.
Speaking of lies, I'm not going to tell one when I say that Micah was kind of a jerk throughout a good chunk of the book, but he's the type of guy that I love to hate and hate to love. Presley is adorable and I admired her when she finally stood her ground, despite the aching pain it caused. The feels are real with this one and I loved every single minute--even the extremely painful ones.
Content: talk of physical/emotional abuse (moderate); mild+ romance (some innuendo, kissing); mild+ language (a handful of Bible swears and 2-3 slightly stronger words)
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
September 20, 2018
One thing I will say about this author, Amy Matayo, is that she sure doesn't shy away from the deeper, gritty emotions that come from difficult life circumstances. This book is a testament to how much she really thought through those emotions and how her characters were acting and reacting to life. The natural consequence of that is that I believe it.
Presley and Micah were scarred, broken and vulnerable. I was so invested in them both. How could I not be? Flashbacks to their younger years and alternating viewpoints played a large part in my understanding and connection to them.
I loved the overwhelming theme of the lies we tell ourselves. It's true. We all tell ourselves lies. Sometimes we really believe the lies, sometimes we know what we are doing but can't seem to help ourselves. This is a tough world to live in. Lies are all around us and they become truth if we let them. I love when Presley finally decides to make a stand and force the lies away from her. It's a struggle, it's raw, it's emotional but man, it also felt so empowering for her. It takes courage to face the lies we tell ourselves.
This book isn't light, easy reading. It's not really what I would call a "romance" either. It's definitely about relationships and life and struggles. It made me think and it made me feel. Two very awesome things that I look for as a reader. I like to be challenged in the way I look at people and things. I really loved it.
Content: scenes of physical, emotional and verbal abuse, kissing, alcoholism mentioned
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Presley and Micah were scarred, broken and vulnerable. I was so invested in them both. How could I not be? Flashbacks to their younger years and alternating viewpoints played a large part in my understanding and connection to them.
I loved the overwhelming theme of the lies we tell ourselves. It's true. We all tell ourselves lies. Sometimes we really believe the lies, sometimes we know what we are doing but can't seem to help ourselves. This is a tough world to live in. Lies are all around us and they become truth if we let them. I love when Presley finally decides to make a stand and force the lies away from her. It's a struggle, it's raw, it's emotional but man, it also felt so empowering for her. It takes courage to face the lies we tell ourselves.
This book isn't light, easy reading. It's not really what I would call a "romance" either. It's definitely about relationships and life and struggles. It made me think and it made me feel. Two very awesome things that I look for as a reader. I like to be challenged in the way I look at people and things. I really loved it.
Content: scenes of physical, emotional and verbal abuse, kissing, alcoholism mentioned
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 22, 2018
Wow. What a powerful story. It’s raw, intense, bold, and gutsy—because, to be quite honest, for most of this book Micah Leven is a selfish jerk. But he’s also one of the most brilliantly-written characters I’ve come across, written in such a way that you can see he has the potential to be so much more; he just doesn’t know it yet. And that’s largely because of the lies he believes as a result of his mother’s abandonment and his father’s abuse.
Presley’s story is no prettier than Micah’s, but instead of being a selfish jerk, she’s become more of a doormat. Or perhaps a dog on a leash. She’s learned to settle for scraps. And one of the most painful things about this story was that you could see the kernel of a precious friendship between Presley and Micah, buried beneath the layers of toxicity. But those layers . . . yeah. Toxic.
And Mara . . . I think it’s probably best I leave you to discover her for yourself. Yowser!
I cannot overemphasise how brilliant this story is. The psychological insight is so subtly woven into the story, and yet it bleeds from every page—and sometimes that might as well be literally, for all the pain it uncovers. It’s that insight that makes the characterisation so strong and the story so compelling. But it’s the example ultimately set by these characters—the consequences of believing those insidious lies, and the process of recognising and rejecting those lies—that gives this story its power. And its pain. But . . .
I am worth it. YOU are worth it. And this story is most definitely worth it.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Presley’s story is no prettier than Micah’s, but instead of being a selfish jerk, she’s become more of a doormat. Or perhaps a dog on a leash. She’s learned to settle for scraps. And one of the most painful things about this story was that you could see the kernel of a precious friendship between Presley and Micah, buried beneath the layers of toxicity. But those layers . . . yeah. Toxic.
And Mara . . . I think it’s probably best I leave you to discover her for yourself. Yowser!
I cannot overemphasise how brilliant this story is. The psychological insight is so subtly woven into the story, and yet it bleeds from every page—and sometimes that might as well be literally, for all the pain it uncovers. It’s that insight that makes the characterisation so strong and the story so compelling. But it’s the example ultimately set by these characters—the consequences of believing those insidious lies, and the process of recognising and rejecting those lies—that gives this story its power. And its pain. But . . .
I am worth it. YOU are worth it. And this story is most definitely worth it.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
October 10, 2018
People try to pretend that broken things are an accident, but they rarely are. Things break when adults get angry. Glasses. Plates. Bones. Skin.
I have to say I'm disappointed. I tried. I swear.
Micah and Presley are best friends.
Micah was abandoned by his mother as a child and was at the mercy of his alcoholic father.
Presley, was a "mistake," in the words of her mother.
From the first day they met, they sealed a beautiful friendship. Besides neighbors, they shared the same family situation, both suffered at the hands of problematic parents.
So they found in each other everything they needed.
Now, fifteen years later, living in different cities and with their respective jobs and lives, they still friends and share the same passion for each other.
They say you can’t fall in love when you’re young... that your heart isn’t developed enough to understand what love really means. Someone... somewhere... forgot to tell that to me.
Micah has a big problem now in his adult life, his father's words constantly resonate in his conscious and for this reason, he refuses to give a chance on living the love between him and Presley. So, choosing to live a superficial life, with a superficial girlfriend. (And crazy)
I don't have a lot of things to say about this book.
I confess that I started reading this book and had not even read the synopsis before.
Well, lesson learned! I don't get along with love triangle— I actually avoid love triangle at all costs —, but after two chapters, I thought, okay, let's finish It.
I thought about stopping reading in a few moments, but I hate to leave books half-read. I just could not connect with any of the characters.
Micah irritated me a lot because he was that typical blind man who only sees himself in moments. Presley, for a long time, lived at the mercy of their friendship. Failing to "live" for herself.
It was a good point in history when she finally realized how she was living, and the change was satisfying. (Thanks God.)
I got closer to Presley but it was still a very vague thing. And that's a shame because the author's writing is very good. Unfortunately, the story did not work for me.
I hope someday to try another book.
The only person who needs to notice you in life... is you.
I have to say I'm disappointed. I tried. I swear.
Micah and Presley are best friends.
Micah was abandoned by his mother as a child and was at the mercy of his alcoholic father.
Presley, was a "mistake," in the words of her mother.
From the first day they met, they sealed a beautiful friendship. Besides neighbors, they shared the same family situation, both suffered at the hands of problematic parents.
So they found in each other everything they needed.
Now, fifteen years later, living in different cities and with their respective jobs and lives, they still friends and share the same passion for each other.
They say you can’t fall in love when you’re young... that your heart isn’t developed enough to understand what love really means. Someone... somewhere... forgot to tell that to me.
Micah has a big problem now in his adult life, his father's words constantly resonate in his conscious and for this reason, he refuses to give a chance on living the love between him and Presley. So, choosing to live a superficial life, with a superficial girlfriend. (And crazy)
I don't have a lot of things to say about this book.
I confess that I started reading this book and had not even read the synopsis before.
Well, lesson learned! I don't get along with love triangle— I actually avoid love triangle at all costs —, but after two chapters, I thought, okay, let's finish It.
I thought about stopping reading in a few moments, but I hate to leave books half-read. I just could not connect with any of the characters.
Micah irritated me a lot because he was that typical blind man who only sees himself in moments. Presley, for a long time, lived at the mercy of their friendship. Failing to "live" for herself.
It was a good point in history when she finally realized how she was living, and the change was satisfying. (Thanks God.)
I got closer to Presley but it was still a very vague thing. And that's a shame because the author's writing is very good. Unfortunately, the story did not work for me.
I hope someday to try another book.
The only person who needs to notice you in life... is you.
September 17, 2018
If you’re looking for fairytale, perfect romances, you won’t find them in Amy Matayo’s books, but if you’re looking for realistic, heart-wrenching stories of imperfect people who are struggling with everyday problems and relationships, you should definitely try her books. Lies We Tell Ourselves should be on the reading list for anyone who is coping with low self-esteem, self-worth, or abuse issues. If you’ve ever felt unloved, friendless, alone, or that you’re not as good as other people, read this book.
Matayo’s characters are realistic and multi-layered. They’re me and you. They’re your next-door neighbor or your best friend. Most people will recognize some of the lies we tell ourselves or the lies other people tell us in this book. We need to replace those lies with positive thinking and know that we ARE of worth. We can do hard things and push through our doubts and anxieties and become more positive in our thoughts and actions toward ourselves.
This isn’t an easy book to read because of the content and the heart-breaking events that occur, but the takeaway is amazing. I was left with a resolve to be more careful what I say and do—not only to others, but to myself. It touched my heart and made me feel all the feels. Lest, you think the whole book is maudlin—it’s not. There are many light-hearted, touching, and humorous parts that temper the wrenching parts. I would recommend this book to those who enjoy realistic books about tough subjects.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Matayo’s characters are realistic and multi-layered. They’re me and you. They’re your next-door neighbor or your best friend. Most people will recognize some of the lies we tell ourselves or the lies other people tell us in this book. We need to replace those lies with positive thinking and know that we ARE of worth. We can do hard things and push through our doubts and anxieties and become more positive in our thoughts and actions toward ourselves.
This isn’t an easy book to read because of the content and the heart-breaking events that occur, but the takeaway is amazing. I was left with a resolve to be more careful what I say and do—not only to others, but to myself. It touched my heart and made me feel all the feels. Lest, you think the whole book is maudlin—it’s not. There are many light-hearted, touching, and humorous parts that temper the wrenching parts. I would recommend this book to those who enjoy realistic books about tough subjects.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
September 22, 2018
The Lies We Tell Ourselves deals with some heavy subject matter (childhood abuse and its effects), but offers enough light moments to keep from being maudlin. Instead, you have an honest story of two people so damaged by their pasts that their relationship seems doomed to failure - for valid reasons.
The book took didn't fall into the same old, same old format of most romances, and held my attention from start to finish. No magic wand waved over the characters, reforming and redeeming them. The resolution was slower, healthier, and just plain better.
Touching and life-affirming, Lies We Tell Ourselves reminds us all of the hold people's hurtful words and actions can have on our lives, how we unwittingly perpetuate the lies, and that we're ultimately not bound by them, because our worth is independent of anything anyone could say or do.
The book took didn't fall into the same old, same old format of most romances, and held my attention from start to finish. No magic wand waved over the characters, reforming and redeeming them. The resolution was slower, healthier, and just plain better.
Touching and life-affirming, Lies We Tell Ourselves reminds us all of the hold people's hurtful words and actions can have on our lives, how we unwittingly perpetuate the lies, and that we're ultimately not bound by them, because our worth is independent of anything anyone could say or do.
December 12, 2018
I could've taken the adult Micah by the shoulders and rattled him. If he wanted to prove something to his father, why not prove it with the lovely-in-every-way Presley, toward whom his father had also been cruel? The business of Micah proving his worth to his father with someone "better" than Presley didn't ring as true for me as a Micah-Presley pair-up would have. In spite of feeling sorry and sad for Micah the boy, I didn't like him as a man. And I became irritated with Presley at times when she cut Micah too much slack.
What I did like in the story:
The author's writing style.
Lots of narrative as opposed to lots of dialogue.
The apparent faith in God, with a soft touch.
Presley's love for animals and saving them.
Micah finally seeing a therapist.
A happy ending, thank goodness.
All in all, this was a good read I looked forward to returning to each day to see what would happen next.
What I did like in the story:
The author's writing style.
Lots of narrative as opposed to lots of dialogue.
The apparent faith in God, with a soft touch.
Presley's love for animals and saving them.
Micah finally seeing a therapist.
A happy ending, thank goodness.
All in all, this was a good read I looked forward to returning to each day to see what would happen next.
June 23, 2020
This was an emotionally raw roller coaster that introduced me to Piper and Micah, two friends who have formed a rare bond rarely seen in this world, bound together by the abuse they both received from the hands of their parents. As adults, their relationship becomes more complicated as they fight to remain just friends even though they both know they have feelings for the other.
Then another woman comes into her picture that makes Micah think he has a chance to finally prove himself. But will it be worth losing his friendship and future with Piper- especially when this woman seems to highlight all the dysfunctional aspects of Micah and Piper's relationship, and all the lies they ever told themselves, each other, and the world.
It's definitely the kind of book that stays with you for a while.
Review first posted on my blog: https://agencyofbooksandspies.blogspo...
Then another woman comes into her picture that makes Micah think he has a chance to finally prove himself. But will it be worth losing his friendship and future with Piper- especially when this woman seems to highlight all the dysfunctional aspects of Micah and Piper's relationship, and all the lies they ever told themselves, each other, and the world.
It's definitely the kind of book that stays with you for a while.
Review first posted on my blog: https://agencyofbooksandspies.blogspo...
September 24, 2018
Amy Matayo's stories always surprise me. Their humor and sarcasm, truth and vulnerability, and relevance always shine through the storytelling. This one was no different. I could not have predicted the ending, especially the way the last 1/4 of the of story unfolded. And it was perfect -- emotionally exhausting in the best way.
What begins as an intriguing story of two friends quickly grows into a story much deeper and extremely relevant. One of friendship, of the value of relationships, of the ties and loyalties of the heart, and that of lies told and lies believed. These lies are sometimes spoken by the characters but are most often born from untruths spoken over them as children. The statements are internalized and believed until the lies become a part of their identity and define all of their behaviors. Through a series of events, Presley and Micah navigate their relationship they each label as "friendship" when their true feelings are much more romantic in nature.
Let's stop for a second and talk about storytelling technique. This book is separated into 3 different parts, each of which is told from the first person POV of 3 characters, one of which was a big surprise! And, moments of memory or flashback were spread throughout the story, telling of important moments of friendship between a young Presley and Micah. These passages are clearly noted and wonderfully add depth of the story, the meaning behind present-day choices and behaviors.
One little thing about this story that really stood out to me was that sometimes recognizing the truth is admitting vulnerability. No one likes to be vulnerable, but that is our nature when we let someone in to see our hearts and our character. This is demonstrated through Micah's struggle with admitting his motives when it comes to his friendship with Presley. And let me just tell you, Presley's character has to respond to all of this... and her choice is wonderfully empowering. I loved it!
What a message to readers this story carries: that of WORTH, of the value of people and the power of words.
content: there are some suggestive comments and innuendos, most of which are meant to be sarcastically humorous. I would rate it for teens and up.
Thank you to the author and Relz Author Support Services for the review copy. This is my honest review.
What begins as an intriguing story of two friends quickly grows into a story much deeper and extremely relevant. One of friendship, of the value of relationships, of the ties and loyalties of the heart, and that of lies told and lies believed. These lies are sometimes spoken by the characters but are most often born from untruths spoken over them as children. The statements are internalized and believed until the lies become a part of their identity and define all of their behaviors. Through a series of events, Presley and Micah navigate their relationship they each label as "friendship" when their true feelings are much more romantic in nature.
Let's stop for a second and talk about storytelling technique. This book is separated into 3 different parts, each of which is told from the first person POV of 3 characters, one of which was a big surprise! And, moments of memory or flashback were spread throughout the story, telling of important moments of friendship between a young Presley and Micah. These passages are clearly noted and wonderfully add depth of the story, the meaning behind present-day choices and behaviors.
One little thing about this story that really stood out to me was that sometimes recognizing the truth is admitting vulnerability. No one likes to be vulnerable, but that is our nature when we let someone in to see our hearts and our character. This is demonstrated through Micah's struggle with admitting his motives when it comes to his friendship with Presley. And let me just tell you, Presley's character has to respond to all of this... and her choice is wonderfully empowering. I loved it!
What a message to readers this story carries: that of WORTH, of the value of people and the power of words.
content: there are some suggestive comments and innuendos, most of which are meant to be sarcastically humorous. I would rate it for teens and up.
Thank you to the author and Relz Author Support Services for the review copy. This is my honest review.
October 2, 2018
This is my first book by this author, and it wont be my last. These two had so much emotional damage as children that they both feel the don't deserve love. How can two people be so close and not know how one feels about the other....well its call serious baggage. The way it is written about all their scares from life, is brilliant. And don't forget the HEA !!! This story deserved it
September 20, 2018
This book! It is so, so good. Emotionally engaging with characters you want to hug (or slap, depending), Lies We Tell Ourselves definitely doesn't live in fantasyland. It deals with real-life issues like child abuse, dysfunctional relationships, mental illness, and the emotional baggage that goes along with a rough childhood.
Presley and Micah are two very broken people who meet as children and form an incredibly co-dependent relationship. When Lies We Tell Ourselves begins, the two have been loving—and hurting—each other for the better part of two decades. While the novel does contain romance, I'd hesitate to label it a romance; really, it's far more about Micah and Presley each discovering their own value and taking strides to work through prior hurt than it is about falling in love.
The novel is told in first person present tense from three alternating perspectives: Micah's, Presley's, and Mara's. First person present tense doesn't always work for me, but here it feels very intimate and personal, and it helped me to understand the characters (even Mara, who is ... difficult to like).
Really, I have just one criticism: Most of the novel takes place within six months to a year, but at the 80% mark (according to my Kindle copy), the main story ends and the epilogue begins. It jumps ahead multiple times before finally ending roughly four years later. And all the jumping forward just left me feeling a bit off kilter. Matayo did a good job of filling the reader in on what happened in the time that was skipped, but it still seemed odd to me to have such a large chunk of the book be the epilogue and to have so many time jumps. It's a bold artistic choice that didn't land with me; however, most readers probably won't care as much as I did.
So that's why I'm giving this book 4 stars instead of 5. But don't let that deter you—this is a magnificent novel with a powerful message: you are loved and you have worth, no matter what anyone has told you or what you tell yourself.
Note: If you're a longtime Matayo reader, watch out for a fun reference to The Wedding Game!
Disclosure of material connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author. All opinions in this review are my own.
Presley and Micah are two very broken people who meet as children and form an incredibly co-dependent relationship. When Lies We Tell Ourselves begins, the two have been loving—and hurting—each other for the better part of two decades. While the novel does contain romance, I'd hesitate to label it a romance; really, it's far more about Micah and Presley each discovering their own value and taking strides to work through prior hurt than it is about falling in love.
The novel is told in first person present tense from three alternating perspectives: Micah's, Presley's, and Mara's. First person present tense doesn't always work for me, but here it feels very intimate and personal, and it helped me to understand the characters (even Mara, who is ... difficult to like).
Really, I have just one criticism: Most of the novel takes place within six months to a year, but at the 80% mark (according to my Kindle copy), the main story ends and the epilogue begins. It jumps ahead multiple times before finally ending roughly four years later. And all the jumping forward just left me feeling a bit off kilter. Matayo did a good job of filling the reader in on what happened in the time that was skipped, but it still seemed odd to me to have such a large chunk of the book be the epilogue and to have so many time jumps. It's a bold artistic choice that didn't land with me; however, most readers probably won't care as much as I did.
So that's why I'm giving this book 4 stars instead of 5. But don't let that deter you—this is a magnificent novel with a powerful message: you are loved and you have worth, no matter what anyone has told you or what you tell yourself.
Note: If you're a longtime Matayo reader, watch out for a fun reference to The Wedding Game!
Disclosure of material connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author. All opinions in this review are my own.
October 9, 2018
Unexpectedly good
Okay, first off, this book tends to do more 'telling' than 'showing,' and I nearly abandoned it for that reason. At first I had difficulty adjusting to this writer's very introspective style. Most of this story is internal dialogue, with even the spoken dialogue often broken up by sentences of inner musings. That style of writing makes it tough to connect to the characters and I gotta be honest, I didn't connect as well as I'd like. There was also no real physical description of either Micha or Presley and that's a problem for a visual reader like myself.
Still, the story was compelling and sucked me in despite my reservations. I read it straight through. It was poignant, sometimes amusing and highly frustrating at times, but it was also an accurate portrayal of how events in our formative years shape us and can deeply affect us into adulthood. Several times I wanted to slap Micha for being so stubbornly blind and Presley for letting him get away with it, although I cheered when she finally put her foot down.
The book didn't need Mara's POV in there, but it was thankfully short. The best part of this story came after the 60% mark, where all the character growth began. And wow, did they grow. Well done with that, Ms. Matayo.
This was a really good read when all is said and done, although a little too squeaky clean for me. Had I known going in this was a 'Christian' writer I wouldn't have read this book and it's unlikely that I will read more by her, but I did enjoy the story and would recommend it.
3.5 stars
Okay, first off, this book tends to do more 'telling' than 'showing,' and I nearly abandoned it for that reason. At first I had difficulty adjusting to this writer's very introspective style. Most of this story is internal dialogue, with even the spoken dialogue often broken up by sentences of inner musings. That style of writing makes it tough to connect to the characters and I gotta be honest, I didn't connect as well as I'd like. There was also no real physical description of either Micha or Presley and that's a problem for a visual reader like myself.
Still, the story was compelling and sucked me in despite my reservations. I read it straight through. It was poignant, sometimes amusing and highly frustrating at times, but it was also an accurate portrayal of how events in our formative years shape us and can deeply affect us into adulthood. Several times I wanted to slap Micha for being so stubbornly blind and Presley for letting him get away with it, although I cheered when she finally put her foot down.
The book didn't need Mara's POV in there, but it was thankfully short. The best part of this story came after the 60% mark, where all the character growth began. And wow, did they grow. Well done with that, Ms. Matayo.
This was a really good read when all is said and done, although a little too squeaky clean for me. Had I known going in this was a 'Christian' writer I wouldn't have read this book and it's unlikely that I will read more by her, but I did enjoy the story and would recommend it.
3.5 stars
October 4, 2018
The Lies We Tell Ourselves
I went into this book thinking one thing and finished with a different kind of book hangover.
The book is set in three parts, three POVs. I didn't know that going in but it kept the pace going strong.
I'm a huge fan of Mrs. Matayo. This one was a hard read for me. It may have been for many. I could relate to Micah and Presley on SO MANY levels. And I think that is why it was a hard read for me.
All that aside, as always, the story was well written and crafted. With a terrifying twist that has you wanting to slap a certain character silly.
One thing I did really like was the last few chapters. When the story finally turned around and I could breathe again.
Well done, Amy Matayo. If a book doesn't give you the feels, it's no good. You definitely blew this one out of the water.
I went into this book thinking one thing and finished with a different kind of book hangover.
The book is set in three parts, three POVs. I didn't know that going in but it kept the pace going strong.
I'm a huge fan of Mrs. Matayo. This one was a hard read for me. It may have been for many. I could relate to Micah and Presley on SO MANY levels. And I think that is why it was a hard read for me.
All that aside, as always, the story was well written and crafted. With a terrifying twist that has you wanting to slap a certain character silly.
One thing I did really like was the last few chapters. When the story finally turned around and I could breathe again.
Well done, Amy Matayo. If a book doesn't give you the feels, it's no good. You definitely blew this one out of the water.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 13, 2018
I have really enjoyed the writings of Amy Matayo. She has a real talent for writing a different type of love story. I feel like she gets into more real life, the hardships. Her books will bring you all over the map with emotions.
This book is no exception, Amy had me in tears again. The characters are easy to care for and right off the first page you are ready to be by their side. Lies We Tell Ourselves is not for the faint of heart, it is a book where you may find yourself in the characters a bit and see lies you have been telling yourself too.
This book is no exception, Amy had me in tears again. The characters are easy to care for and right off the first page you are ready to be by their side. Lies We Tell Ourselves is not for the faint of heart, it is a book where you may find yourself in the characters a bit and see lies you have been telling yourself too.
November 30, 2018
Lies We Tell Ourselves - PG13
Triggers: abuse
Violence: yes, no details
Language: fewer than 10
Sex: intimated, no details
I always tell myself to go to bed, that the book will be there in the morning. Amy Matayo is a binge-worthy author. I have a couple of authors whose new release dates make it on my calendar, and she's at the top of the list. This book is a beautifully told story of best friends who have a terrible thing in common. It's a tale of searching for something that's right in front of your face. I loved it.
Triggers: abuse
Violence: yes, no details
Language: fewer than 10
Sex: intimated, no details
I always tell myself to go to bed, that the book will be there in the morning. Amy Matayo is a binge-worthy author. I have a couple of authors whose new release dates make it on my calendar, and she's at the top of the list. This book is a beautifully told story of best friends who have a terrible thing in common. It's a tale of searching for something that's right in front of your face. I loved it.
September 27, 2018
4 "YOU ARE WORTH IT" STARS
This was not an easy book for me to read. It hits on a personal level making it one of those that I will always remember but would rather not as it brings back unwanted memories.
There is a very profound; powerful message that I took away from this and that is "I AM WORTH IT" we are "ALL WORTH IT" and do not let anyone tell you otherwise!
This was not an easy book for me to read. It hits on a personal level making it one of those that I will always remember but would rather not as it brings back unwanted memories.
There is a very profound; powerful message that I took away from this and that is "I AM WORTH IT" we are "ALL WORTH IT" and do not let anyone tell you otherwise!
January 1, 2019
I loved Presley’s growth
September 20, 2018
This book is intense! I found myself alternately loving and hating it.
Micah and Presley have always been there for each other. Their friendship began as two young kids who had nobody but each other. Abused and made to feel worthless by their parents, they stuck together.
Micah is determined to not hurt Presley by loving her.
And he thinks he can keep himself from being hurt by not letting her see deep down inside himself.
Presley has put up with Micah's quirks and is not sure how much more she can handle.
They both have so many lies in their lives--lies they believe because they've been so ingrained.
I hated seeing the choices they were making, and could relate in so many ways because these lies are the kind that many of us believe about ourselves.
The author keeps this story line intense the entire way through the book. Emotional roller coaster here- we come! It was a hard book to read because I wanted to see them make good choices, and then something else (unexpected) would happen, and I'd be ready to stop reading just so that I wouldn't have to experience that pain!
If you are looking to read about the good, the bad, and the ugly of relationships, look no further--they can all be found right here! I loved how the author allows us to get inside each character's head and understand them just a bit better. She not only shows their actions, but shows us a peek into their past, so that we can understand why they are the person they are.
Pain-filled. Realistic. Friendship. Honesty. Lies. Love. Misunderstandings. It's all there, and more!
This might be considered edgy Christian fiction, there are no sex scenes, but there are mentions of sex. Also contains mention of alcoholism and child abuse.
This is not a story that is easy to read. But it is real.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Micah and Presley have always been there for each other. Their friendship began as two young kids who had nobody but each other. Abused and made to feel worthless by their parents, they stuck together.
Micah is determined to not hurt Presley by loving her.
And he thinks he can keep himself from being hurt by not letting her see deep down inside himself.
Presley has put up with Micah's quirks and is not sure how much more she can handle.
They both have so many lies in their lives--lies they believe because they've been so ingrained.
I hated seeing the choices they were making, and could relate in so many ways because these lies are the kind that many of us believe about ourselves.
The author keeps this story line intense the entire way through the book. Emotional roller coaster here- we come! It was a hard book to read because I wanted to see them make good choices, and then something else (unexpected) would happen, and I'd be ready to stop reading just so that I wouldn't have to experience that pain!
If you are looking to read about the good, the bad, and the ugly of relationships, look no further--they can all be found right here! I loved how the author allows us to get inside each character's head and understand them just a bit better. She not only shows their actions, but shows us a peek into their past, so that we can understand why they are the person they are.
Pain-filled. Realistic. Friendship. Honesty. Lies. Love. Misunderstandings. It's all there, and more!
This might be considered edgy Christian fiction, there are no sex scenes, but there are mentions of sex. Also contains mention of alcoholism and child abuse.
This is not a story that is easy to read. But it is real.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
November 28, 2018
Romance, clean; PG-13 for some adult situations, alcohol use and abuse.
More of a 3.5 for me as a reader.
Micah and Presley's story told from alternating points of view including the third character in the love triangle (not my favorite perspective), was a deeply, heartfelt, emotional read. Two abused children fighting for each other and for their futures, hoping they will be with each other. Great characters, deeply hurt, and flawed in honest ways, and struggling to dig out from their pasts, all the while struggling to keep the one they love in their present and future. Micah is afraid to truly hold on and love Presley fully, as he doesn't fully trust himself, and Presley keeps accepting what Micah is willing to give as he keeps his hold on her heart. Deeply heartfelt, deeply flawed and struggling characters, each trying to figure out their success, their future, muddle through their mistakes and hope that they can stay with each other in the best way possible (even if it seems to only be a dream). Deeply conflicted, but deeply caring and loyal to each other. Each blinded by bits and pieces of themselves and each loyal and devoted to the other in the way that they know how. As each of them figure out their present in the light of their past, they build their future in the best way possible. Always a fan of her writing.
More of a 3.5 for me as a reader.
Micah and Presley's story told from alternating points of view including the third character in the love triangle (not my favorite perspective), was a deeply, heartfelt, emotional read. Two abused children fighting for each other and for their futures, hoping they will be with each other. Great characters, deeply hurt, and flawed in honest ways, and struggling to dig out from their pasts, all the while struggling to keep the one they love in their present and future. Micah is afraid to truly hold on and love Presley fully, as he doesn't fully trust himself, and Presley keeps accepting what Micah is willing to give as he keeps his hold on her heart. Deeply heartfelt, deeply flawed and struggling characters, each trying to figure out their success, their future, muddle through their mistakes and hope that they can stay with each other in the best way possible (even if it seems to only be a dream). Deeply conflicted, but deeply caring and loyal to each other. Each blinded by bits and pieces of themselves and each loyal and devoted to the other in the way that they know how. As each of them figure out their present in the light of their past, they build their future in the best way possible. Always a fan of her writing.
January 8, 2019
I had been waiting anxiously for Christmas gift cards to purchase this book, but then around Thanksgiving, it went on sale, and I snatched it up! And I am so glad I did! I loved this book. I love the raw reality melded with the hope that there's more than the lies we believe. And the joy of seeing two people finally begin to overcome lifetimes of lies they've believed about who they are makes for a beautifully hopeful book. Ms. Matayo does a fantastic job of creating a world where the weight of the lies believed is heavy until the burden begins to lift as truth is exposed and chosen. I felt that weight and the lifting of the weight as I read the book. This was a wonderfully heart and soul satisfying read and I most definitely recommend it.
December 31, 2018
This book just fell flat. I really did not like Micah, not because of who his character was, but because the author did not have a good voice as a male. There was also way too much internal dialog. I ended up skimming most of it just to get past all the rambling.
September 21, 2018
Every time I sit down with a book--let alone one written by an author I already know I love--I try to do so without bias. I tell myself just because the back cover is intriguing, or because I'm a fan of the author or because I like *almost* everything I read anyway, it doesn't mean I'm going to like whatever I've got in my hands at the moment. So I turn to page one and I put what I know/suspect about the book out of my mind and I try to pretend it's a brand new author to me in a genre I'm unfamiliar with. I start slowly and I do my darndest to pay attention and to be both objective and balanced in my first impression of the words on the page.
Each Matayo book is different than every one she's written before, so it's relatively easy to disregard any fandom bias that might stem from being a follower of her work. You really don't know what you're going to get. Totally love that.
But here's the thing with Matayo's writing: You can be objective all you want, and tell yourself to slow down and study the book with fresh eyes to the absolute best of your ability, but you'll still end up sucked into the story no matter what those first impressions are. Next thing you know you're at chapter five, then fourteen, then twenty-four and your eyes need propped open because you should be sleeping, but "just one more chapter" has turned into "if I don't finish this thing tonight, I won't be able to sleep for as much as I know I'll be thinking about it."
Just... know that going into it. If you have to dive into the book knowing/thinking/believing something before you can really get started, know that this is one that has the power to affect everyone on some level and allow yourself to be open to that possibility. If you finish it without re-thinking what you believe (the lies) about yourself OR what you think (the lies) about others, then you missed something and I'd highly suggest an immediate re-read.
Enough proselytizing... I'm a Matayo fan. I'm a fan of this book. You get it. What do I have to say about the actual BOOK?
A lot.
And a lot I'm still processing.
Here's the short & sweet:
I liked the camaraderie between Micah and Presley and how the love/hate of their relationship had a serious give-and-take effect that was palpable on both sides. It felt very realistic and not all fluffy unicorn-like where everything's comin' up roses all the time, as is often found with the usual romance trope in spite of whether or not the characters are supposedly flawed. These guys weren't just flawed. They were broken. I couldn't relate to their specific circumstances, but I could absolutely feel what they felt when all they had in their head were the kinds of lies that not only dominated their brokenness, but fed it. Theirs was a relationship that wasn't working, that was just as messed up as the two of them were individually--how many of us need to read (and accept) that that's a very real thing? That we're not all perfect? That if we could just change one thing about the way we think or feel or believe about ourselves, it could make all the difference in the world?
There were thirteen different quotes I highlighted--and that's not counting the many, many phrases I'd have highlighted if it didn't already feel like I was going crazy with the highlighter feature on my Kindle. I selected them for one of two reasons: 1) because I'm a self-proclaimed word-nerd who happens to love words and collect quotes... there were some must-saves throughout, let me tell you! 2)--and this was most often the case--there was so much truth in the words, I caught myself thinking "I need to save this to share later because you never know whether or not there's someone in your circle that needs to hear it." A lot of the time, that someone is me.
Read the book.
Uncover the lies.
Burn up the lies of your own.
I'm ready to start fresh with the next Matayo, but I love that this one's going to burn deep down for awhile.
Each Matayo book is different than every one she's written before, so it's relatively easy to disregard any fandom bias that might stem from being a follower of her work. You really don't know what you're going to get. Totally love that.
But here's the thing with Matayo's writing: You can be objective all you want, and tell yourself to slow down and study the book with fresh eyes to the absolute best of your ability, but you'll still end up sucked into the story no matter what those first impressions are. Next thing you know you're at chapter five, then fourteen, then twenty-four and your eyes need propped open because you should be sleeping, but "just one more chapter" has turned into "if I don't finish this thing tonight, I won't be able to sleep for as much as I know I'll be thinking about it."
Just... know that going into it. If you have to dive into the book knowing/thinking/believing something before you can really get started, know that this is one that has the power to affect everyone on some level and allow yourself to be open to that possibility. If you finish it without re-thinking what you believe (the lies) about yourself OR what you think (the lies) about others, then you missed something and I'd highly suggest an immediate re-read.
Enough proselytizing... I'm a Matayo fan. I'm a fan of this book. You get it. What do I have to say about the actual BOOK?
A lot.
And a lot I'm still processing.
Here's the short & sweet:
I liked the camaraderie between Micah and Presley and how the love/hate of their relationship had a serious give-and-take effect that was palpable on both sides. It felt very realistic and not all fluffy unicorn-like where everything's comin' up roses all the time, as is often found with the usual romance trope in spite of whether or not the characters are supposedly flawed. These guys weren't just flawed. They were broken. I couldn't relate to their specific circumstances, but I could absolutely feel what they felt when all they had in their head were the kinds of lies that not only dominated their brokenness, but fed it. Theirs was a relationship that wasn't working, that was just as messed up as the two of them were individually--how many of us need to read (and accept) that that's a very real thing? That we're not all perfect? That if we could just change one thing about the way we think or feel or believe about ourselves, it could make all the difference in the world?
There were thirteen different quotes I highlighted--and that's not counting the many, many phrases I'd have highlighted if it didn't already feel like I was going crazy with the highlighter feature on my Kindle. I selected them for one of two reasons: 1) because I'm a self-proclaimed word-nerd who happens to love words and collect quotes... there were some must-saves throughout, let me tell you! 2)--and this was most often the case--there was so much truth in the words, I caught myself thinking "I need to save this to share later because you never know whether or not there's someone in your circle that needs to hear it." A lot of the time, that someone is me.
Read the book.
Uncover the lies.
Burn up the lies of your own.
I'm ready to start fresh with the next Matayo, but I love that this one's going to burn deep down for awhile.
October 8, 2018
Presley and Micah are childhood friends drawn together as a result of being abused by their single parent, her mom, his dad. We don’t hear about Presley’s dad and Micah’s mom left him when he was little. They provide each other with sanctuary to be themselves and that’s how their friendship grows over the years.
We meet them when they are in their late twenties. He’s an up and coming newsreader in the big smoke, she’s an hour away in a smaller town rescuing an ailing local newspaper that nobody reads anymore. Presley’s like that: she takes things and people under her wing. She rescues, protects and mothers. It brings meaning to her life and fills the hole that formed through not being loved by her mom.
Micah’s good looking and doing well in his career. He’s ambitious and seeks all the trinkets that he hopes will fill the hole in his heart from being abandoned and abused as a kid. This is common in blokes. Chasing trinkets to feel significant whether it’s promotions, fancy toys or pretty girls.
But Micah’s deeper than that, well kinda, and he’s also unique having a quality friendship with a girl who knows him better than he does. You don’t meet many blokes who have such a friendship.
In her typical dual POV (he said, she said) style Matayo has both characters share their history and present in her inimitably powerful manner. She takes us into their heads and ever so gradually into their hearts.
And then there’s an interloper, an intruder. Gorgeous Mara who targets Micah. She’s new to the company (her uncle owns it), he’s the young star and climbing fast. Sounds perfect. M&M – it’s even catchy. Micah’s not the first bloke to be seduced by the allure of beauty especially one who isn’t backward in coming forward. Matayo even takes us into her head for a few chapters and like other reviewers said, better left for you to discover what’s in there.
Mara’s intrusion forces our two childhood friends to explore their feelings towards each other. And more significantly they begin to look within, to confront what’s in their heart and the damage done to it through the lies they’ve chosen to believe about themselves.
Matayo excels in this introspection. Particularly when writing Micah’s POV. She gets him, the distressed little boy who doesn’t understand why mom left him and a mean dad that he simply can’t please, the teenager who seeks significance through achievement who grows up into an attractive man who still wants to please his dad through his achievements. Surely if he can do that he will feel whole?
What I found compelling about LWTO is how Matayo kept prompting me to challenge the choices Micah (in particular) and Presley make about their friendship. As I read it my emotions towards both jumped around. I wanted to be Micah’s friend and tell him to ditch the beauty who was simply playing with his emotions and I wanted a friend like Presley.
Perhaps inadvertently, Matayo explores the notions of childhood sweethearts and the power of first loves (even when they don’t realise it) which I loved evaluating. Thrown together as kids, one the rescuer, both believing they are unloveable, could they ever be more than friends? Could they lead normal lives happily married with others and still maintain their friendship? Could they be happy without the other in their life?
The last few chapters are brilliant. It wasn’t what I was expecting and Matayo handles it with aplomb. She takes us into their hearts. We experience the anguish of loss, dashed hopes, pain of digging below the scaffolding protecting a wounded heart, and the joy of healing and letting go.
Bravo, Amy Matayo. A wonderful read.
We meet them when they are in their late twenties. He’s an up and coming newsreader in the big smoke, she’s an hour away in a smaller town rescuing an ailing local newspaper that nobody reads anymore. Presley’s like that: she takes things and people under her wing. She rescues, protects and mothers. It brings meaning to her life and fills the hole that formed through not being loved by her mom.
Micah’s good looking and doing well in his career. He’s ambitious and seeks all the trinkets that he hopes will fill the hole in his heart from being abandoned and abused as a kid. This is common in blokes. Chasing trinkets to feel significant whether it’s promotions, fancy toys or pretty girls.
But Micah’s deeper than that, well kinda, and he’s also unique having a quality friendship with a girl who knows him better than he does. You don’t meet many blokes who have such a friendship.
In her typical dual POV (he said, she said) style Matayo has both characters share their history and present in her inimitably powerful manner. She takes us into their heads and ever so gradually into their hearts.
And then there’s an interloper, an intruder. Gorgeous Mara who targets Micah. She’s new to the company (her uncle owns it), he’s the young star and climbing fast. Sounds perfect. M&M – it’s even catchy. Micah’s not the first bloke to be seduced by the allure of beauty especially one who isn’t backward in coming forward. Matayo even takes us into her head for a few chapters and like other reviewers said, better left for you to discover what’s in there.
Mara’s intrusion forces our two childhood friends to explore their feelings towards each other. And more significantly they begin to look within, to confront what’s in their heart and the damage done to it through the lies they’ve chosen to believe about themselves.
Matayo excels in this introspection. Particularly when writing Micah’s POV. She gets him, the distressed little boy who doesn’t understand why mom left him and a mean dad that he simply can’t please, the teenager who seeks significance through achievement who grows up into an attractive man who still wants to please his dad through his achievements. Surely if he can do that he will feel whole?
What I found compelling about LWTO is how Matayo kept prompting me to challenge the choices Micah (in particular) and Presley make about their friendship. As I read it my emotions towards both jumped around. I wanted to be Micah’s friend and tell him to ditch the beauty who was simply playing with his emotions and I wanted a friend like Presley.
Perhaps inadvertently, Matayo explores the notions of childhood sweethearts and the power of first loves (even when they don’t realise it) which I loved evaluating. Thrown together as kids, one the rescuer, both believing they are unloveable, could they ever be more than friends? Could they lead normal lives happily married with others and still maintain their friendship? Could they be happy without the other in their life?
The last few chapters are brilliant. It wasn’t what I was expecting and Matayo handles it with aplomb. She takes us into their hearts. We experience the anguish of loss, dashed hopes, pain of digging below the scaffolding protecting a wounded heart, and the joy of healing and letting go.
Bravo, Amy Matayo. A wonderful read.
September 14, 2018
Lies are so damaging, yet we tell them to ourselves all the time. I’ve heard many of the comments in this book. “I’m not good enough?” “I’m a mistake.” “I’ll never be worthy.” For a long time, I told people I was the middle child, left-handed, and the oddball in the family. My sisters told me I was adopted. (I wasn’t!) But it still stuck with me even as I grew older. However, one day, I realized, I’m chosen and a child of the King. I need to lift my head up and not let Satan speak those lies in my ears. I will say that some days it’s not easy.
I’m not sure how the author, Amy Matayo was able to hear all those voices in my head. This book was written in such a way that I truly felt all the pain and thoughts Micah and Presley went through. I was never abused physically, and I have a wonderful family, but there were still those things Satan used to speak into my head to make me doubt my worth as a person.
If you’ve ever struggled with issues of worth, depression, and loneliness, then this book will touch you in a deep way. I know it will stick with me for a long time. I loved many of the quotes in this story and plan to make graphics to remember them.
Amy Matayo is a fantastic author who gets to the heart of issues. Her writing will wrap around you and not let go. I personally want to thank her for her wonderful words of encouragement.
When I started this book I truly couldn’t stop until I finished the whole thing. Wow! It’s that good!
I was given this book by the author for an honest review, all opinions are my own.
I’m not sure how the author, Amy Matayo was able to hear all those voices in my head. This book was written in such a way that I truly felt all the pain and thoughts Micah and Presley went through. I was never abused physically, and I have a wonderful family, but there were still those things Satan used to speak into my head to make me doubt my worth as a person.
If you’ve ever struggled with issues of worth, depression, and loneliness, then this book will touch you in a deep way. I know it will stick with me for a long time. I loved many of the quotes in this story and plan to make graphics to remember them.
Amy Matayo is a fantastic author who gets to the heart of issues. Her writing will wrap around you and not let go. I personally want to thank her for her wonderful words of encouragement.
When I started this book I truly couldn’t stop until I finished the whole thing. Wow! It’s that good!
I was given this book by the author for an honest review, all opinions are my own.
September 20, 2018
Lies We Tell Ourselves is a masterful work from Amy Matayo. She tells stories and creates characters in a way that makes you feel like you are peering into their life and their soul. You cry with them, laugh with them, hurt for them, and cheer them on. Lies We Tell Ourselves is awesome. This work of fiction surrounds two characters who have been told lies all of their life- and follows as they try to retrain their heart and their mind to believe something other then the lies. Truth is often harder to believe than the lies, isn't it? The depth of her characters and the way she weaves them through the story line is simply a gift. I could not put it down. It's a must read. Grab some tissues because you'll probably shed some tears for your new found best friends Presley and Micah. I certainly did! Carve out a few hours, you won't want to stop reading... Matayo does it again!
I was given an advanced copy of the book by the author. The thoughts and opinions expressed are honest and fully mine.
I was given an advanced copy of the book by the author. The thoughts and opinions expressed are honest and fully mine.
September 14, 2018
I wish I could write a review that is as good as Amy's new book Lies We Tell Ourselves. I read it in one day - I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN - even when it was tearing me up inside. For what the characters Micah and Presley went through; for myself because it hit all "those" spots. The uncomfortable spots, the vulnerable spots, the ugly spots, the ones you only tell yourself because it's too hard to tell others how you really feel. I've been done with the book for a week now and I still can't get it out of my head. I'm pretty sure I will read it again soon. It's that good. But it's not just one of those books that you read to escape your reality, it's so much more - it's good for the soul. Amy shows you how the characters healed and learned to truly live and ultimately love. And just maybe, you can learn from them too - to heal yourself, to walk worthy, to love well; I know I am.
I was given this book by the author for an honest review, all opinions are my own.
I was given this book by the author for an honest review, all opinions are my own.
November 20, 2018
This is a fun romance book but it also has some deeper themes of self worth, recovering from abuse, and of course denial, the LIES WE TELL OURSELVES .
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The author wrote the book in three different perspectives, but my favorite character is Micah. He tries to drown the pain of his past in his success: his great career, women, charm and good looks. His best friend Presley has been there for him all along, but will he wake up soon and realize how important she is to him? Or will he continue to fall for Mara, a girl who seems to have everything he’s always wanted in a girl?
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The minute I thought I knew how the story was going to go, there was a fun twist that I wasn’t expecting. I read this pretty quick because I had to make sure it ended like I wanted it to!
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If you haven’t ever read any of Matayo’s books you definitely should. Her books aren’t what you would call religious, or Christian, but they are definitely cleaner than your average romance novel.
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The author wrote the book in three different perspectives, but my favorite character is Micah. He tries to drown the pain of his past in his success: his great career, women, charm and good looks. His best friend Presley has been there for him all along, but will he wake up soon and realize how important she is to him? Or will he continue to fall for Mara, a girl who seems to have everything he’s always wanted in a girl?
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The minute I thought I knew how the story was going to go, there was a fun twist that I wasn’t expecting. I read this pretty quick because I had to make sure it ended like I wanted it to!
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If you haven’t ever read any of Matayo’s books you definitely should. Her books aren’t what you would call religious, or Christian, but they are definitely cleaner than your average romance novel.
April 9, 2023
From Horrible to Happiness
After reading and watching D.J.& The Six, I have been in a horrible hangover state, this book managed to break me out.
Micah and Presley meet as neighbors when they're young and only have each other. What they both endured should have had their parents locked up for life. Their childhood experiences, especially for Micah, lead to years of relationship issues. As for Presley, she holds out hope, until she doesn't. I found Micah to be manipulative and a bit narcissistic towards Presley, but more out of desperation than control. For her part, Presley wants what is right in front of her, fearing finally it will never happen makes plans to move on.
But after coming off of one massive book/show hangover, I was glad that this story held my interest.
I had a slight issue with the epilogue. Taking for granted that everything will turn out ok after years apart was a bit of a stretch.
After reading and watching D.J.& The Six, I have been in a horrible hangover state, this book managed to break me out.
Micah and Presley meet as neighbors when they're young and only have each other. What they both endured should have had their parents locked up for life. Their childhood experiences, especially for Micah, lead to years of relationship issues. As for Presley, she holds out hope, until she doesn't. I found Micah to be manipulative and a bit narcissistic towards Presley, but more out of desperation than control. For her part, Presley wants what is right in front of her, fearing finally it will never happen makes plans to move on.
But after coming off of one massive book/show hangover, I was glad that this story held my interest.
I had a slight issue with the epilogue. Taking for granted that everything will turn out ok after years apart was a bit of a stretch.
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