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Here We Lie
Megan Mazeros dan Lauren Mabrey hidup dalam dunia yang sangat berbeda. Megan adalah seorang gadis sederhana, sedangkan Lauren adalah putri seorang senator dari keluarga terhormat. Namun pada tahun 1999, keduanya menjadi teman sekamar saat kuliah dan, sebagai wanita muda yang berusaha menemukan tempat di dunia kampus, mereka menjalin hubungan pertemanan yang erat dan saling berbagi rahasia-rahasia terdalam. Pada musim panas sebelum memasuki tahun keempat, Megan ikut berlibur bersama Lauren dan keluarganya di sebuah pulau pribadi. Minggu-minggu berlalu dengan damai, hingga pada suatu malam menjelang akhir liburan terjadi sesuatu yang tak terbayangkan, yang membakar rangka persahabatan kedua gadis itu hingga runtuh. Bertahun-tahun kemudian, di tengah skandal politik, Megan akhirnya mengakui apa yang sebenarnya terjadi pada malam yang fatal itu dan mengungkapkan kenyataan mengerikan tentang keluarga Lauren dan mengancam membuka rahasia mereka yang selama ini terkubur.
384 pages, Paperback
First published January 30, 2018
124 people are currently reading
4427 people want to read
About the author
Paula Treick DeBoard
6 books497 followersPaula Treick DeBoard is a writer, latte drinker and all-around slave to public education. Her first novels—written in the back seat of a 1977 Chevy Caprice station wagon where her parents let her jostle around, unprotected by a seatbelt—were sadly lost in one cross-country move or another.
The Mourning Hours (2013) was her first novel to survive. Paula is also the author of The Fragile World (2014) and The Drowning Girls (April 2016).
She holds a BA in English from Dordt College and an MFA in Fiction from the University of Southern Maine. She breaks up the monotony of staring at her laptop screen for long hours with her teaching commitment as a lecturer in the Merritt Writing Program at the University of California, Merced.
Her heart—and any remaining spare time—belongs to Will and their four-legged brood.
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May 18, 2018
My reviews can also be seen at: https://deesradreadsandreviews.wordpr...
4.5 Stars!!!
After previously enjoying “The Drowning Girls” by Paula Treick DeBoard, I was excited to have the opportunity to read this novel.
This was another fantastic read!!
October 2016
Lauren Mabrey is desperate to attend a press conference that’s about to begin. It’s not open to the public and the guard at the door tries to turn her away. However, when Lauren whispers that she’s family, the guard takes pity on her and lets her inside. The press conference begins and a woman says…
“I’m here today to tell you what happened to me fourteen years ago, and why, for far too long, I’ve kept silent.”
1998-
Megan Mazeros always promised herself she wouldn’t get stuck living in Woodstock. Originally she was to attend Kansas State but that wasn’t to be. But now, Megan is finally getting out. She’s getting away from everything and everyone in Woodstock…and for that she’s thankful.
Lauren Mabrey comes from a very well known, powerful, and influential family. To say they are well-off is an understatement. With houses in different states and even a private island, Lauren has never wanted for anything…financially anyway. As Lauren says “ We’re the all-American family on steroids .” However, Lauren knows she doesn’t fit the “Mabrey mold”. She’s nothing like her perfect siblings; she’s a disappointment…the "wild child".
“You’ll never get anywhere in life like this”
Megan Mazeros and Lauren Mabrey both end up at the all-girls school – Keale College in Connecticut. They are both there for very different reasons. When they meet, they realize right away that they don’t have much in common. Megan had a very modest upbringing and Lauren is the daughter of a senator. But despite their differences, they grow a friendship so strong that they feel comfortable sharing their deepest darkest secrets, things no one else knows.
Megan enjoys some of the perks that come with having a friend who has money. However, there are times when the differences in their backgrounds are made very apparent, times when Megan thinks that she doesn’t belong in Lauren’s “ other life ”.
“I was only a guest in this life, an actor pulled in for a bit role. I was supporting actress to the golden girl”
However, Megan isn’t the only one with insecurities. But their friendship continues to grow. They make plans for the future, positive that they will always be in each other’s lives.
Then comes the night when everything changes. Guilt and shame. So many secrets…so many lies.
But eventually something happens that makes it impossible to keep quiet any longer.
What really happened all those years before?
The story-line moves between the past and present, alternating Lauren and Megan’s point of view. Well-written and engaging, the story was easy to follow, and I had no problem figuring out whose point of view it was.
Reading the description, I had an idea of what was to come. However, I still found the journey getting there so interesting. I felt like much of what happened came across realistically. This is a story that explores family dynamics, the complications of friendship, and the power of secrets and lies. There were some very emotional moments, but I feel that the author handled these sensitive issues with great care.
Paula Treick DeBoard’s writing makes me ask myself some tough questions. I thought a lot about my own friendships. I wondered how I would react in situations like the ones in this novel. What can a friendship survive? What does it mean to be brave?
I really enjoyed this novel and I’m hoping I don’t have to wait too long to read more from Paula Treick DeBoard.
Thank you to NetGalley and Park Row Books for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
4.5 Stars!!!
After previously enjoying “The Drowning Girls” by Paula Treick DeBoard, I was excited to have the opportunity to read this novel.
This was another fantastic read!!
October 2016
Lauren Mabrey is desperate to attend a press conference that’s about to begin. It’s not open to the public and the guard at the door tries to turn her away. However, when Lauren whispers that she’s family, the guard takes pity on her and lets her inside. The press conference begins and a woman says…
“I’m here today to tell you what happened to me fourteen years ago, and why, for far too long, I’ve kept silent.”
1998-
Megan Mazeros always promised herself she wouldn’t get stuck living in Woodstock. Originally she was to attend Kansas State but that wasn’t to be. But now, Megan is finally getting out. She’s getting away from everything and everyone in Woodstock…and for that she’s thankful.
Lauren Mabrey comes from a very well known, powerful, and influential family. To say they are well-off is an understatement. With houses in different states and even a private island, Lauren has never wanted for anything…financially anyway. As Lauren says “ We’re the all-American family on steroids .” However, Lauren knows she doesn’t fit the “Mabrey mold”. She’s nothing like her perfect siblings; she’s a disappointment…the "wild child".
“You’ll never get anywhere in life like this”
Megan Mazeros and Lauren Mabrey both end up at the all-girls school – Keale College in Connecticut. They are both there for very different reasons. When they meet, they realize right away that they don’t have much in common. Megan had a very modest upbringing and Lauren is the daughter of a senator. But despite their differences, they grow a friendship so strong that they feel comfortable sharing their deepest darkest secrets, things no one else knows.
Megan enjoys some of the perks that come with having a friend who has money. However, there are times when the differences in their backgrounds are made very apparent, times when Megan thinks that she doesn’t belong in Lauren’s “ other life ”.
“I was only a guest in this life, an actor pulled in for a bit role. I was supporting actress to the golden girl”
However, Megan isn’t the only one with insecurities. But their friendship continues to grow. They make plans for the future, positive that they will always be in each other’s lives.
Then comes the night when everything changes. Guilt and shame. So many secrets…so many lies.
But eventually something happens that makes it impossible to keep quiet any longer.
What really happened all those years before?
The story-line moves between the past and present, alternating Lauren and Megan’s point of view. Well-written and engaging, the story was easy to follow, and I had no problem figuring out whose point of view it was.
Reading the description, I had an idea of what was to come. However, I still found the journey getting there so interesting. I felt like much of what happened came across realistically. This is a story that explores family dynamics, the complications of friendship, and the power of secrets and lies. There were some very emotional moments, but I feel that the author handled these sensitive issues with great care.
Paula Treick DeBoard’s writing makes me ask myself some tough questions. I thought a lot about my own friendships. I wondered how I would react in situations like the ones in this novel. What can a friendship survive? What does it mean to be brave?
I really enjoyed this novel and I’m hoping I don’t have to wait too long to read more from Paula Treick DeBoard.
Thank you to NetGalley and Park Row Books for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 5, 2017
Another utterly engaging read from the author of one of my favorites last year—The Drowning Girls.
What I appreciate the most about Paula Treick DeBoard’s writing is how effortless she makes the reader/character connection. Abandoning my own sense of self, to allow for the voices and emotions of these characters to take over, was done with ease. The complexity and depth of the two women at the center of it all—how their flaws, issues, experiences and choices all intermingle—makes for an enthralling and somewhat relatable read. In my eyes, this is the epitome of a character driven novel.
Lauren and Megan are dual leading ladies and they couldn’t be more different. They meet during freshmen year, at an all girls college, and sort of latch on to one another, becoming fast friends. For Lauren, the senator’s "wild child", it’s about finding herself away from the Mabry name, earning something on her own merits, that drives her. For Megan, it’s forging a new path away from the small midwest town she grew up in and the very place that holds the heartbreak and haunting memories of her father’s final years. Despite their differing perspectives, upbringings, world views and struggles, they find the strength to cope in one another.
The story opens with Megan holding a press conference, fourteen years post-friendship with Lauren, ready to the let the painful truth out for the world to see. Naturally, you have to wonder, what happened? From that point, the author circles back to the beginning and starts unraveling the downfall of Megan and Lauren.
Over the course of the story, I found myself waffling with my feelings for the women—I was team Lauren at some points and Megan all-the-way during others. I didn’t agree with all of the decisions either one of them made and I had to wonder, were they ever truly friends? I'm not sure if the exchange of their deepest darkest secret made up for the fact that they lied about so many other things. How can you call someone a friend when they have no idea who you really are?
A twisted tale of lies, jealousy and ultimately forgiveness, Here We Lie examines how far loyalty and the pledge of friendship really extends.
*A HUGE thank you to the very talented Ms. Paula Treick DeBoard for sending me my very own gorgeous copy of her latest and greatest. Is this cover pretty or what? The author's lovely gesture in no way influenced my thoughts or the opinions I expressed in my review—they’re genuinely my own.
What I appreciate the most about Paula Treick DeBoard’s writing is how effortless she makes the reader/character connection. Abandoning my own sense of self, to allow for the voices and emotions of these characters to take over, was done with ease. The complexity and depth of the two women at the center of it all—how their flaws, issues, experiences and choices all intermingle—makes for an enthralling and somewhat relatable read. In my eyes, this is the epitome of a character driven novel.
Lauren and Megan are dual leading ladies and they couldn’t be more different. They meet during freshmen year, at an all girls college, and sort of latch on to one another, becoming fast friends. For Lauren, the senator’s "wild child", it’s about finding herself away from the Mabry name, earning something on her own merits, that drives her. For Megan, it’s forging a new path away from the small midwest town she grew up in and the very place that holds the heartbreak and haunting memories of her father’s final years. Despite their differing perspectives, upbringings, world views and struggles, they find the strength to cope in one another.
The story opens with Megan holding a press conference, fourteen years post-friendship with Lauren, ready to the let the painful truth out for the world to see. Naturally, you have to wonder, what happened? From that point, the author circles back to the beginning and starts unraveling the downfall of Megan and Lauren.
Over the course of the story, I found myself waffling with my feelings for the women—I was team Lauren at some points and Megan all-the-way during others. I didn’t agree with all of the decisions either one of them made and I had to wonder, were they ever truly friends? I'm not sure if the exchange of their deepest darkest secret made up for the fact that they lied about so many other things. How can you call someone a friend when they have no idea who you really are?
A twisted tale of lies, jealousy and ultimately forgiveness, Here We Lie examines how far loyalty and the pledge of friendship really extends.
*A HUGE thank you to the very talented Ms. Paula Treick DeBoard for sending me my very own gorgeous copy of her latest and greatest. Is this cover pretty or what? The author's lovely gesture in no way influenced my thoughts or the opinions I expressed in my review—they’re genuinely my own.
December 11, 2017
Paula is one of my go-to authors; after devouring The Drowning Girls last year I immediately consumed The Fragile World and The Mourning Hours in quick succession. I find her writing to be one of the finest examples of flawless character study around. While each book has a different theme, she manages to keep a tight reign on her cast, always ensuring that, what could be construed as the everyday mundane, is in fact transformed into a tense, unstoppable freight train of suspense. Last year's The Drowning Girls was a domestic drama full of tension and suspense, and DeBoard hits us again with another tale of power struggles, this time in the woefully relevant arena of political scandal and sexual assault.
We're dropped in the first chapter at a press conference where we are about to be hit with some truth bombs... But obviously not right away. That wouldn't make for a very suspenseful story, now would it? ;) We are immediately whisked away back (14 years or so if I recall) to where it all started, the beginning of Lauren and Megan's friendship. These two couldn't be more different, yet somehow their lack of similarities drive them closer than imaginable as they attempt to support each other through their own tragedies. If you've read the blurb then you can hazard a guess at where the story is going, which gives the book less of a mystery feel and more of a "tension accelerating toward a breaking point" experience.
The plot most definitely takes a backseat to the characterization, as it should; in books that have a widely written about plot, there needs to be detail in the flow of the writing that sets it apart from all the others like it. Here, and honestly in every book she's written, the author does an exquisite job of connecting reader and leading cast. The girl's relationship is relatable in the sense that us women have all been in a friendship that didn't go the way we expected. There are a good number of friends I've made over the years that, for one reason or another, didn't end up being the lifelong companions I expected us to be, and that is the minor theme that struck me the hardest here.
If you enjoy deep, well-defined, and gloriously flawed characters, you'll want to pick up a copy of Here We Lie. I can't express what a privilege it is to pick up DeBoard's books and feel as if I'm chomping at the bit already to get my hands on another one of her delectable stories. They are the type of juicy, compulsive reads that aren't cheapened by cliches and meaningless drama, yet make me feel as if I've bettered myself upon completing them. Highly recommended to women and men alike, and bravo to the author for creating such a well needed narrative for our country where the timing couldn't be better.
*Many thanks to the author for providing my copy; it was a pleasure to provide my honest thoughts here.
We're dropped in the first chapter at a press conference where we are about to be hit with some truth bombs... But obviously not right away. That wouldn't make for a very suspenseful story, now would it? ;) We are immediately whisked away back (14 years or so if I recall) to where it all started, the beginning of Lauren and Megan's friendship. These two couldn't be more different, yet somehow their lack of similarities drive them closer than imaginable as they attempt to support each other through their own tragedies. If you've read the blurb then you can hazard a guess at where the story is going, which gives the book less of a mystery feel and more of a "tension accelerating toward a breaking point" experience.
The plot most definitely takes a backseat to the characterization, as it should; in books that have a widely written about plot, there needs to be detail in the flow of the writing that sets it apart from all the others like it. Here, and honestly in every book she's written, the author does an exquisite job of connecting reader and leading cast. The girl's relationship is relatable in the sense that us women have all been in a friendship that didn't go the way we expected. There are a good number of friends I've made over the years that, for one reason or another, didn't end up being the lifelong companions I expected us to be, and that is the minor theme that struck me the hardest here.
If you enjoy deep, well-defined, and gloriously flawed characters, you'll want to pick up a copy of Here We Lie. I can't express what a privilege it is to pick up DeBoard's books and feel as if I'm chomping at the bit already to get my hands on another one of her delectable stories. They are the type of juicy, compulsive reads that aren't cheapened by cliches and meaningless drama, yet make me feel as if I've bettered myself upon completing them. Highly recommended to women and men alike, and bravo to the author for creating such a well needed narrative for our country where the timing couldn't be better.
*Many thanks to the author for providing my copy; it was a pleasure to provide my honest thoughts here.
March 10, 2018
Here we Lie by Paula Treick DeBoard is a 2018 Park Row Books publication.
A timely topic mingled with a bittersweet ode to friendship-
Megan Mazeros and Lauren Mabrey come from entirely different backgrounds, but when they end up being college roommates, in the late 1990s, the unlikely pair forge a strong bond.
But, when Megan is invited to spend the summer with Lauren at her family’s private retreat, something happens that forces a wedge between the two girls and their friendship never fully recovered.
Now, Megan is married, having put that summer and Lauren out her mind all these years, until a startling news report regarding a serious allegation against a member of Lauren’s family brings the past sharply into focus. After a flood of memories overwhelms her, Megan knows she can’t stay quiet. She must come forward with her story, forcing her to reveal long buried secrets and shocking, undeniable truths to herself, her family, and the world.
The subject matter at the center of the story is so timely and the scenario is so familiar, so plausible, this story could make tomorrow’s headlines and we’d believe it was a real news story.
The events surrounding the summer of 1999 may be the center of the story, but the heart of the story is about a friendship that manages to survive against incredible odds.
This review has been a difficult one to write, not just because this is an uncomfortable topic, because it happens to be very, very important to me, and I am quite vocal about it on social media, but mainly I’m worried about giving too much away. But, I must say, I think the author did a terrific job of laying out all the angles and complexities without passing judgement on the characters for their decisions and choices.
I also don’t’ want to get preachy about victim blaming, or lecture on spouting platitudes about not facing adversity head on. I think enduring something that traumatic, in a situation where you feel especially powerless and vulnerable, with added emotional connections, could make facing things ‘head-on’ a thing that is easier said than done. Sometimes the mind is so stunned and shocked, the only way to cope is to the bury things deep in the subconscious mind until we are strong enough to face it, to admit it, to deal with it. Not only that, we should all know by now there are many psychological reasons behind these actions, as well as the threats demanding silence, and the disbelief and monumental scrutiny one will most certainly face.
Yet, I am of a mind that you should never keep quiet. Run- don’t walk- speak up and speak out- immediately!! Your voice just might be the one that gives someone else the courage they need to do the right thing and you may prevent someone else from becoming a 'survivor'.
This book highlights the plethora of complexities of situations like this one, adding areas of gray, blurred lines, and the difficulties of calling out men of power. This book could open up a much- needed discussion on this issue, perhaps making it a good book club selection.
But, at the end of the day, the book is also about the mysterious bonds of friendship. Lauren and Megan’s relationship had a rocky foundation, was built on lies and misrepresentations, and both girls are deeply flawed in their own way.
However, once you strip away all the complications that got in the way, the friendship was sincere and legitimate at its core, which gives the book a positive spin, rather than one that leaves you feeling angry or hopeless.
Overall, this is a compelling novel, a cautionary tale, and one that addresses the need to be more informed, educated, less judgmental and a whole lot more supportive of those who come forward, no matter when they find the courage and strength to do so. Maybe this would make it easier for more people to speak up, hopefully sooner, rather than later.
4 stars
A timely topic mingled with a bittersweet ode to friendship-
Megan Mazeros and Lauren Mabrey come from entirely different backgrounds, but when they end up being college roommates, in the late 1990s, the unlikely pair forge a strong bond.
But, when Megan is invited to spend the summer with Lauren at her family’s private retreat, something happens that forces a wedge between the two girls and their friendship never fully recovered.
Now, Megan is married, having put that summer and Lauren out her mind all these years, until a startling news report regarding a serious allegation against a member of Lauren’s family brings the past sharply into focus. After a flood of memories overwhelms her, Megan knows she can’t stay quiet. She must come forward with her story, forcing her to reveal long buried secrets and shocking, undeniable truths to herself, her family, and the world.
The subject matter at the center of the story is so timely and the scenario is so familiar, so plausible, this story could make tomorrow’s headlines and we’d believe it was a real news story.
The events surrounding the summer of 1999 may be the center of the story, but the heart of the story is about a friendship that manages to survive against incredible odds.
This review has been a difficult one to write, not just because this is an uncomfortable topic, because it happens to be very, very important to me, and I am quite vocal about it on social media, but mainly I’m worried about giving too much away. But, I must say, I think the author did a terrific job of laying out all the angles and complexities without passing judgement on the characters for their decisions and choices.
I also don’t’ want to get preachy about victim blaming, or lecture on spouting platitudes about not facing adversity head on. I think enduring something that traumatic, in a situation where you feel especially powerless and vulnerable, with added emotional connections, could make facing things ‘head-on’ a thing that is easier said than done. Sometimes the mind is so stunned and shocked, the only way to cope is to the bury things deep in the subconscious mind until we are strong enough to face it, to admit it, to deal with it. Not only that, we should all know by now there are many psychological reasons behind these actions, as well as the threats demanding silence, and the disbelief and monumental scrutiny one will most certainly face.
Yet, I am of a mind that you should never keep quiet. Run- don’t walk- speak up and speak out- immediately!! Your voice just might be the one that gives someone else the courage they need to do the right thing and you may prevent someone else from becoming a 'survivor'.
This book highlights the plethora of complexities of situations like this one, adding areas of gray, blurred lines, and the difficulties of calling out men of power. This book could open up a much- needed discussion on this issue, perhaps making it a good book club selection.
But, at the end of the day, the book is also about the mysterious bonds of friendship. Lauren and Megan’s relationship had a rocky foundation, was built on lies and misrepresentations, and both girls are deeply flawed in their own way.
However, once you strip away all the complications that got in the way, the friendship was sincere and legitimate at its core, which gives the book a positive spin, rather than one that leaves you feeling angry or hopeless.
Overall, this is a compelling novel, a cautionary tale, and one that addresses the need to be more informed, educated, less judgmental and a whole lot more supportive of those who come forward, no matter when they find the courage and strength to do so. Maybe this would make it easier for more people to speak up, hopefully sooner, rather than later.
4 stars
December 12, 2017
4.5 stars
Here We Lie is so timely and relevant--it amazes me that the author wrote this before #metoo movement began.
This is an emotional read about friendship, lies, and stories that cloud reality.
“What was a lie or two between friends?”
Megan and Lauren become unlikely friends while attending elite Keale College in the late 1990’s. Lauren is the privileged daughter of a senator, whereas Megan comes from a blue collar family and has had to work for everything she has. Despite their differences, the two become inseparable during their first 3 years at college, until an unthinkable act occurs, tearing them apart….Until Megan gives a press conference in 2016, forcing both to confront the truth about the horrific act that destroyed their friendship.
The POVS and timelines shift, starting in 2016 and transitioning back and forth between the late 90’/ early 2000’s and then back to 2016. This is done intentionally to document how their friendship began, as well as to lead up to the reveal of the perpetrator.
I didn’t want this book to end--I could have just kept on reading more and more of Lauren’s and Megan’s stories! Treick DeBoard brings Megan and Lauren to life. Her characterization of the two friends is exceptional--I felt as if I knew them, and their stories resonated with me. Both are flawed--there were times when I liked one and hated the other and vice a versa. I was choked up when I finished this, as I had to emotionally disconnect from the characters and let them go. Here We Lie is an impactful and powerful read about sexual assault and female friendship--I highly recommend!
Here We Lie is so timely and relevant--it amazes me that the author wrote this before #metoo movement began.
This is an emotional read about friendship, lies, and stories that cloud reality.
“What was a lie or two between friends?”
Megan and Lauren become unlikely friends while attending elite Keale College in the late 1990’s. Lauren is the privileged daughter of a senator, whereas Megan comes from a blue collar family and has had to work for everything she has. Despite their differences, the two become inseparable during their first 3 years at college, until an unthinkable act occurs, tearing them apart….Until Megan gives a press conference in 2016, forcing both to confront the truth about the horrific act that destroyed their friendship.
The POVS and timelines shift, starting in 2016 and transitioning back and forth between the late 90’/ early 2000’s and then back to 2016. This is done intentionally to document how their friendship began, as well as to lead up to the reveal of the perpetrator.
I didn’t want this book to end--I could have just kept on reading more and more of Lauren’s and Megan’s stories! Treick DeBoard brings Megan and Lauren to life. Her characterization of the two friends is exceptional--I felt as if I knew them, and their stories resonated with me. Both are flawed--there were times when I liked one and hated the other and vice a versa. I was choked up when I finished this, as I had to emotionally disconnect from the characters and let them go. Here We Lie is an impactful and powerful read about sexual assault and female friendship--I highly recommend!
March 1, 2018
5 stars! I loved this book!
This story revolves around two best friends who meet at university. The summer after their third year of studies they have a major falling out that causes them to lose touch completely for over a decade. Fourteen years after their falling out, they are reunited in the midst of a major political scandal.
I was quickly drawn into this gripping and suspenseful drama from the very first page. I adored the two main characters, Megan and Lauren, who narrated this intriguing and addictive story. This novel weaves together a Past and Present timeline which flowed perfectly.
The author, Paula Treick DeBoard, did a fantastic job capturing the emotional chaos of the female bond/friendship through university years. The love, loyalty, highs and lows between Lauren and Megan were palpable.
I loved DeBoard’s writing! So many sentences made me silently cheer inside my head because they were so brilliantly worded. This is my first book by DeBoard and I am very excited to check out her previous and future works!!
A big thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin and Paula Treick DeBoard for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!!
This story revolves around two best friends who meet at university. The summer after their third year of studies they have a major falling out that causes them to lose touch completely for over a decade. Fourteen years after their falling out, they are reunited in the midst of a major political scandal.
I was quickly drawn into this gripping and suspenseful drama from the very first page. I adored the two main characters, Megan and Lauren, who narrated this intriguing and addictive story. This novel weaves together a Past and Present timeline which flowed perfectly.
The author, Paula Treick DeBoard, did a fantastic job capturing the emotional chaos of the female bond/friendship through university years. The love, loyalty, highs and lows between Lauren and Megan were palpable.
I loved DeBoard’s writing! So many sentences made me silently cheer inside my head because they were so brilliantly worded. This is my first book by DeBoard and I am very excited to check out her previous and future works!!
A big thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin and Paula Treick DeBoard for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!!
March 20, 2018
*4.5 stars* rounded up!
Here We Lie by Paula Treick DeBoard is an absolutely riveting, powerful, thrilling, and thought-provoking domestic suspense novel about friendship, jealousy, secrets, lies and betrayal. I was totally engaged from start to finish and found myself mesmerized with how well this story was told and with the way it unfolded! I was extremely impressed!!
Paula Treick DeBoard delivers an impressive and well-written story here that takes you on an emotional journey of the friendship between two best friends, Megan and Lauren. The story is told in an alternating dual point of view between Megan and Lauren and the timelines shift back and forth with the story opening up in 2016 and then transitions back and forth between the late 90’s, early 2000’s and then back to the present in 2016. I really enjoyed getting to know and understanding the friendship between Megan and Lauren with the way that this story was presented. Sometimes I find that a dual timeshifting POV is distracting or I like one time period better than another but it definitely was not the case with this book. I thought it flowed effortlessly and was easy to follow along with the storyline and all the characters involved.
The characters are well-developed, flawed, and realistic to a point where I was totally connected to the characters and to this story. This was my first book by Paula Treick DeBoard and I will definitely be checking out her previous and upcoming books! Highly recommend!
Published: January 30th, 2018
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Harlequin and Paula Treick DeBoard for providing me with an ARC in exchange for a review!
All of Brenda’s and my reviews can be found on our Sister Blog:
https://twosisterslostinacoulee.com
Here We Lie by Paula Treick DeBoard is an absolutely riveting, powerful, thrilling, and thought-provoking domestic suspense novel about friendship, jealousy, secrets, lies and betrayal. I was totally engaged from start to finish and found myself mesmerized with how well this story was told and with the way it unfolded! I was extremely impressed!!
Paula Treick DeBoard delivers an impressive and well-written story here that takes you on an emotional journey of the friendship between two best friends, Megan and Lauren. The story is told in an alternating dual point of view between Megan and Lauren and the timelines shift back and forth with the story opening up in 2016 and then transitions back and forth between the late 90’s, early 2000’s and then back to the present in 2016. I really enjoyed getting to know and understanding the friendship between Megan and Lauren with the way that this story was presented. Sometimes I find that a dual timeshifting POV is distracting or I like one time period better than another but it definitely was not the case with this book. I thought it flowed effortlessly and was easy to follow along with the storyline and all the characters involved.
The characters are well-developed, flawed, and realistic to a point where I was totally connected to the characters and to this story. This was my first book by Paula Treick DeBoard and I will definitely be checking out her previous and upcoming books! Highly recommend!
Published: January 30th, 2018
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Harlequin and Paula Treick DeBoard for providing me with an ARC in exchange for a review!
All of Brenda’s and my reviews can be found on our Sister Blog:
https://twosisterslostinacoulee.com
December 21, 2017
An addicting tale of lies, jealously, and friendship. What another brilliant story by Paula Treick DeBoard!!
One of things that I love about DeBoard's style is her ability to flawlessly connect her characters with her readers. The sense of depth and experiences that the author creates through her characters is absolutely amazing.
Megan and Lauren are quite the opposite of one another when they meet attending an elite college in the 90's. Lauren comes from a privileged family who is the daughter of a senator and Megan primarily comes from a middle class family who has worked for opportunity her entire life. The two girls become best friends quickly until an earth shattering event tears their friendship apart.
What I love about this novel is the dual POV. The story alternated between present day of 2016 to the 90's. As a reader, you gradually see the friendship of Megan and Lauren unfold. But, I asked myself reading this novel... how many lies can one spin until the web is destroyed? Megan and Lauren shared their deepest and darkest secrets with one another as their friendship spiraled out of control. I mean really... what does a few lies here and there do to a friendship?
I highly recommend this novel! I was fully engaged in the story of Megan and Lauren. Addicting, emotional, thrilling, and unique! DeBoard truly has a talent for her characterization.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin for an advanced arc in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 stars :).
One of things that I love about DeBoard's style is her ability to flawlessly connect her characters with her readers. The sense of depth and experiences that the author creates through her characters is absolutely amazing.
Megan and Lauren are quite the opposite of one another when they meet attending an elite college in the 90's. Lauren comes from a privileged family who is the daughter of a senator and Megan primarily comes from a middle class family who has worked for opportunity her entire life. The two girls become best friends quickly until an earth shattering event tears their friendship apart.
What I love about this novel is the dual POV. The story alternated between present day of 2016 to the 90's. As a reader, you gradually see the friendship of Megan and Lauren unfold. But, I asked myself reading this novel... how many lies can one spin until the web is destroyed? Megan and Lauren shared their deepest and darkest secrets with one another as their friendship spiraled out of control. I mean really... what does a few lies here and there do to a friendship?
I highly recommend this novel! I was fully engaged in the story of Megan and Lauren. Addicting, emotional, thrilling, and unique! DeBoard truly has a talent for her characterization.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin for an advanced arc in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 stars :).
April 2, 2018
Megan and Lauren met and became friends in college. Girls from very different backgrounds, Megan from a small town in Kansas, Lauren, the daughter of a senator, a priviledged background where she is considered the black sheep. A very strong mother, protective of the family name, but how far will she go to protect that name? When Lauren invites Megan to the family island, something terrible will herald the end of their friendship.
Another topic straight out of the news headlines. What the priviledged can or try to get away with, money talks. How far a person will go, in protecting the family name, reputation. A well written novel, narrated in the alternating voices of Lauren and Megan. Two young women trying to find themselves, find a way to have their own lives without family expectations. Eventually a time will come when a stand must be taken, but will it be the right action, the right time? A very interesting look at a relevant a current topic.
Another topic straight out of the news headlines. What the priviledged can or try to get away with, money talks. How far a person will go, in protecting the family name, reputation. A well written novel, narrated in the alternating voices of Lauren and Megan. Two young women trying to find themselves, find a way to have their own lives without family expectations. Eventually a time will come when a stand must be taken, but will it be the right action, the right time? A very interesting look at a relevant a current topic.
January 31, 2018
A few quotes — random thoughts - an abbreviated review - FOR A NOVEL I ENJOYED VERY MUCH!!!
Quotes First:
“He could of course, just tell the truth—but that wasn’t how things worked in our family, not when the truth cast shade on the Mabrey name”.
“We assessed and reframed and came out with a better story, a better version of ourselves. And then we held the line.”
“I was crying just as much for Anna Kovics as for myself, not to mention all the other women, victims who had fallen prey to the charm, the money, the inherent power that came with being a Mabrey.
“I wonder what stories Anna had told herself, and if they were anything like the lies I’d been living with for fourteen years”.
This is the 4th book I’ve read by Paula Treick DeBoard.
I read Paula - and will continue to read every book Paula writes - BECAUSE I CAN COUNT ON ENJOYING HER BOOKS: It’s really as simple as that’s!!!
ALWAYS.....from page 1 to the very last page - in ‘every’ book by Paula, I’m involved—I’m interested -- I’m engrossed in the storytelling - the characters and the situations they face. My mind and heart are equally connected.
“Here We Lie” .....is another book I’m proud of in the same way I’m proud of “Anatomy of A Scandal”, by Sarah Vaughan. THIS IS ANOTHER TIMELY AND RELEVANT NOVEL. These are both powerful and dynamic books which contributes to keeping a flow of communication open in discussing & supporting justice - needing ruthless honest self expression.
“You know what sucks?”
“Being lied to”!!!
YOU KNOW WHAT ELSE SUCKS? LIES TO OURSELVES!!!
Paula’s characters feel as if they are speaking to you. They are flawed and realistic.
We take an emotional journey with two best friends - different as night as day - through college - family - secrets - withheld secrets > they are faced with choices —-burying painful feelings of guilt, grief, regret, and the truth.
Once I begin a novel by Paula DeBoard...I don’t want to put it down.
I was a little teary-eye towards the end not because of a ‘who-ha’-happy-perky ending - but a satisfying ending!
It’s almost a shame that I have to say these words: “I am blessed that I have never been raped”. A GIVEN FOR EVERYONE!
At the same time - It makes me incredibly sad and angry that for decades women generally kept quiet about being sexually harassed, assaulted, and raped.
I still remember when Anita Hill said....”The more Women speak out, the more other women want to speak out”.......as we have recently seen. Hallelujah!!!
Kudos to Paula Treick DeBoard for writing a book about a topic we still need to keep in front of our eyes and not become lackadaisical on one of the prime issues in this novel.
Anybody who reads this, could find themselves chatting in details about the characters and relationships in this novel.
Quotes First:
“He could of course, just tell the truth—but that wasn’t how things worked in our family, not when the truth cast shade on the Mabrey name”.
“We assessed and reframed and came out with a better story, a better version of ourselves. And then we held the line.”
“I was crying just as much for Anna Kovics as for myself, not to mention all the other women, victims who had fallen prey to the charm, the money, the inherent power that came with being a Mabrey.
“I wonder what stories Anna had told herself, and if they were anything like the lies I’d been living with for fourteen years”.
This is the 4th book I’ve read by Paula Treick DeBoard.
I read Paula - and will continue to read every book Paula writes - BECAUSE I CAN COUNT ON ENJOYING HER BOOKS: It’s really as simple as that’s!!!
ALWAYS.....from page 1 to the very last page - in ‘every’ book by Paula, I’m involved—I’m interested -- I’m engrossed in the storytelling - the characters and the situations they face. My mind and heart are equally connected.
“Here We Lie” .....is another book I’m proud of in the same way I’m proud of “Anatomy of A Scandal”, by Sarah Vaughan. THIS IS ANOTHER TIMELY AND RELEVANT NOVEL. These are both powerful and dynamic books which contributes to keeping a flow of communication open in discussing & supporting justice - needing ruthless honest self expression.
“You know what sucks?”
“Being lied to”!!!
YOU KNOW WHAT ELSE SUCKS? LIES TO OURSELVES!!!
Paula’s characters feel as if they are speaking to you. They are flawed and realistic.
We take an emotional journey with two best friends - different as night as day - through college - family - secrets - withheld secrets > they are faced with choices —-burying painful feelings of guilt, grief, regret, and the truth.
Once I begin a novel by Paula DeBoard...I don’t want to put it down.
I was a little teary-eye towards the end not because of a ‘who-ha’-happy-perky ending - but a satisfying ending!
It’s almost a shame that I have to say these words: “I am blessed that I have never been raped”. A GIVEN FOR EVERYONE!
At the same time - It makes me incredibly sad and angry that for decades women generally kept quiet about being sexually harassed, assaulted, and raped.
I still remember when Anita Hill said....”The more Women speak out, the more other women want to speak out”.......as we have recently seen. Hallelujah!!!
Kudos to Paula Treick DeBoard for writing a book about a topic we still need to keep in front of our eyes and not become lackadaisical on one of the prime issues in this novel.
Anybody who reads this, could find themselves chatting in details about the characters and relationships in this novel.
July 12, 2018
From the critically acclaimed author, of The Drowning Girls, The Fragile World, and The Mourning Hours (all five glowing stars-review links below), Paula Treick DeBoard follows with her latest riveting suspense, coming Jan 2018— HERE WE LIE.
Rich in character, a look inside the secret lives of two different unlikely friends from two different social classes. A world of privilege and secrets. The lies and secrets they tell themselves, and to one another —with devastating consequences.
Ripped from today’s headlines: Scandal, power, cover-ups, and deadly secrets. Messy, complicated and imperfect lives.
Told in alternating first-person perspectives, moving between past and present. Megan Mazeros and Lauren Mabrey. Each views the world differently— from diverse backgrounds.
As the book opens it is 2016. A press conference. Someone is about to spill a lie. Age thirty-five. Female. A lie kept silent for fourteen years is about to be exposed to the world.
“Fourteen years was a long time. It was long enough to forget, forgive, move on.” A long time to keep a secret.
Megan is from Kansas. She lived for years watching her dad die each day slowly from asbestos fibers (a poor man’s cancer) from the mesothelioma with his job. She holds a secret. Her father’s dying wish.
“Something had to die so something else could live.”
With the life insurance money, Megan can attend a college of choice in combination with a scholarship and her good grades. She wants nothing more than to escape this town and her past. Her mom has moved on to Gerry, her boss at the accounting firm.
She decides on Keale College in Scofield, Connecticut— a unscale private girls-only school. She realizes that wealth lives here and people of privilege. People different than herself.
She meets a regular local boy named Joe on her first day. Soon after that, her roommates commits suicide, assigning her another roommate.
Lauren Mabrey is the wild child with continued reckless behavior from a wealthy family. From the elite, boarding schools, and old money pedigree. The cars, wealth, homes, status, power, and the best education. She is the daughter of a U.S. senator from Connecticut. Lauren has a poor GPA; however, with her parent’s money, she can pretty much do as she pleases.
She also feels like an outsider in her only family and goes against the traditional values, causing disarray in her family. Often she wanted to be regular so as not to have to live up to the expectations.
A bit rebellious, she encounters some problems with drugs before she goes off to college, which lands the guy in jail, and ultimately ended up dead in a prison yard. This event haunts her. However, her parents manage to keep this out of the news. Her mom warns her they cannot continue to bail her out.
Lauren loves photography and takes her talent a little too far. Her family dismisses it. After an encounter with her current roommate, Erin she is assigned a new one.
Lauren and Megan become best friends in their freshman year 1999-2000. Lauren is everything Megan is not. Lauren sees Megan as normal. Due to her family environment, she finds herself attracted to Megan, Joe, Marcus, and others she meets, unlike her status.
However, Megan distorts her life offering shocking lies about her family. She exaggerated about how poor her family was and how many boyfriends she had. She wants to be someone else, someone different from the dull girl she is. To feel better about herself. Both girls are insecure in their ways.
Lauren loves Megan’s wit, and the two develop a friendship based on lies. Telling each other their best and worst truths and lies. As time moves on, they also become jealous and angry with one another.
Megan meets Lauren’s family and becomes exposed to a different way of life. Their home, a job, and a private summer island off the coast of Maine. This trip was to be their last vacation before senior year.
However, one night something happens which changes the course of their lives. A house of money. To cover up the dirty deeds of its family members.
Dreams of Harvard are no longer in view. Shattered by one night. Worse than her father dying. A choice to make. A decision. Who would believe her—a girl from nowhere? The Mabrey's had the kind of power that could buy justice—that could shape truth.
The lies she had told. She could not put herself through it. She would remain silent. One girl all alone. Dreams shattered. Another one left clueless about the events unfolding around her. Where was the trust in one another?
Many years later when the girls have their separate lives and families of their own, someone comes forward with rape and sexual assault. A political scandal. If someone had come forward earlier, could it have saved others down the road?
The silence broken, shattering lives and the ugly truth revealed. Allegations, investigation, and a trial. The what ifs.
What a fabulous story— highly relatable to the events which surround us today. Even though fictional, unfortunately, it is all too real for many women who experience sexual assault at the hands of famous figures such as politicians and celebrities. The victims often are viewed in a negative light; therefore they remain silent.
An avid fan of the author, for years—her books continually land on my top books of the year. Unique and compelling, her stories possess a common thread. Thought-provoking, she writes of powerful bonds of friendships, family, and betrayal.
Paula’s writing is superb! The dual timelines and alternating perspectives keep the reader engrossed in the lives of the two young women of different ages. From college years to the present, the author gives a glimpse of the gap and how words and actions have consequences resulting in hurt and resentment. A convincing look at lies and how they come back to haunt (no matter the age).
From teenagers to young women with families of their own to their true selves. In addition to the topic of friendship, a strong focus on daughter/father and daughter/mother relationships.
Highly charged topics: enjoyed how she tied female friendship, sexual assault, political scandal and moral complexities together in one dynamic story. HERE WE LIE an ideal choice for book clubs and further discussions (Reader’s Guide Included).
A bonus—a insightful Q&A with the author! Highly recommend. A "read-in-one-sitting" kind of novel.
JDCMustReadBooks
A special thank you to the author for the lovely print copy and Park Row and NetGalley for the digital advanced reading copy. Also purchased the audiobook narrated by Alex McKenna and Cassandra Campbell (My favorite)!
The Drowning Girls
Top Books of 2016
The Fragile World
Top Books of 2014
The Mourning Hours
Rich in character, a look inside the secret lives of two different unlikely friends from two different social classes. A world of privilege and secrets. The lies and secrets they tell themselves, and to one another —with devastating consequences.
Ripped from today’s headlines: Scandal, power, cover-ups, and deadly secrets. Messy, complicated and imperfect lives.
Told in alternating first-person perspectives, moving between past and present. Megan Mazeros and Lauren Mabrey. Each views the world differently— from diverse backgrounds.
As the book opens it is 2016. A press conference. Someone is about to spill a lie. Age thirty-five. Female. A lie kept silent for fourteen years is about to be exposed to the world.
“Fourteen years was a long time. It was long enough to forget, forgive, move on.” A long time to keep a secret.
Megan is from Kansas. She lived for years watching her dad die each day slowly from asbestos fibers (a poor man’s cancer) from the mesothelioma with his job. She holds a secret. Her father’s dying wish.
“Something had to die so something else could live.”
With the life insurance money, Megan can attend a college of choice in combination with a scholarship and her good grades. She wants nothing more than to escape this town and her past. Her mom has moved on to Gerry, her boss at the accounting firm.
She decides on Keale College in Scofield, Connecticut— a unscale private girls-only school. She realizes that wealth lives here and people of privilege. People different than herself.
She meets a regular local boy named Joe on her first day. Soon after that, her roommates commits suicide, assigning her another roommate.
Lauren Mabrey is the wild child with continued reckless behavior from a wealthy family. From the elite, boarding schools, and old money pedigree. The cars, wealth, homes, status, power, and the best education. She is the daughter of a U.S. senator from Connecticut. Lauren has a poor GPA; however, with her parent’s money, she can pretty much do as she pleases.
She also feels like an outsider in her only family and goes against the traditional values, causing disarray in her family. Often she wanted to be regular so as not to have to live up to the expectations.
A bit rebellious, she encounters some problems with drugs before she goes off to college, which lands the guy in jail, and ultimately ended up dead in a prison yard. This event haunts her. However, her parents manage to keep this out of the news. Her mom warns her they cannot continue to bail her out.
Lauren loves photography and takes her talent a little too far. Her family dismisses it. After an encounter with her current roommate, Erin she is assigned a new one.
Lauren and Megan become best friends in their freshman year 1999-2000. Lauren is everything Megan is not. Lauren sees Megan as normal. Due to her family environment, she finds herself attracted to Megan, Joe, Marcus, and others she meets, unlike her status.
However, Megan distorts her life offering shocking lies about her family. She exaggerated about how poor her family was and how many boyfriends she had. She wants to be someone else, someone different from the dull girl she is. To feel better about herself. Both girls are insecure in their ways.
Lauren loves Megan’s wit, and the two develop a friendship based on lies. Telling each other their best and worst truths and lies. As time moves on, they also become jealous and angry with one another.
Megan meets Lauren’s family and becomes exposed to a different way of life. Their home, a job, and a private summer island off the coast of Maine. This trip was to be their last vacation before senior year.
However, one night something happens which changes the course of their lives. A house of money. To cover up the dirty deeds of its family members.
Dreams of Harvard are no longer in view. Shattered by one night. Worse than her father dying. A choice to make. A decision. Who would believe her—a girl from nowhere? The Mabrey's had the kind of power that could buy justice—that could shape truth.
The lies she had told. She could not put herself through it. She would remain silent. One girl all alone. Dreams shattered. Another one left clueless about the events unfolding around her. Where was the trust in one another?
Many years later when the girls have their separate lives and families of their own, someone comes forward with rape and sexual assault. A political scandal. If someone had come forward earlier, could it have saved others down the road?
The silence broken, shattering lives and the ugly truth revealed. Allegations, investigation, and a trial. The what ifs.
What a fabulous story— highly relatable to the events which surround us today. Even though fictional, unfortunately, it is all too real for many women who experience sexual assault at the hands of famous figures such as politicians and celebrities. The victims often are viewed in a negative light; therefore they remain silent.
An avid fan of the author, for years—her books continually land on my top books of the year. Unique and compelling, her stories possess a common thread. Thought-provoking, she writes of powerful bonds of friendships, family, and betrayal.
Paula’s writing is superb! The dual timelines and alternating perspectives keep the reader engrossed in the lives of the two young women of different ages. From college years to the present, the author gives a glimpse of the gap and how words and actions have consequences resulting in hurt and resentment. A convincing look at lies and how they come back to haunt (no matter the age).
From teenagers to young women with families of their own to their true selves. In addition to the topic of friendship, a strong focus on daughter/father and daughter/mother relationships.
Highly charged topics: enjoyed how she tied female friendship, sexual assault, political scandal and moral complexities together in one dynamic story. HERE WE LIE an ideal choice for book clubs and further discussions (Reader’s Guide Included).
A bonus—a insightful Q&A with the author! Highly recommend. A "read-in-one-sitting" kind of novel.
JDCMustReadBooks
A special thank you to the author for the lovely print copy and Park Row and NetGalley for the digital advanced reading copy. Also purchased the audiobook narrated by Alex McKenna and Cassandra Campbell (My favorite)!
The Drowning Girls
Top Books of 2016
The Fragile World
Top Books of 2014
The Mourning Hours
May 4, 2018
Things were always changing and always moving on, and who we were at one moment wasn’t necessarily the person we would be forever.
This book deals with a situation that is all too real for women who experience sexual assault, not only the trauma, but the shame and the blame as well. I was drawn in by the dual narrative, each playing against the other, the characters felt realistic and the author did a wonderful job of depicting female friendships, what draws us to one another, how we mold ourselves, bend, break and, most poignantly, how the repercussions of lies ripple through our lives.
Thank you Lindsay for the review that put this on my list! This is when Goodreads works so well, when we can discover a book that we might not have otherwise heard of, but that provided such a reflective reading experience.
This book deals with a situation that is all too real for women who experience sexual assault, not only the trauma, but the shame and the blame as well. I was drawn in by the dual narrative, each playing against the other, the characters felt realistic and the author did a wonderful job of depicting female friendships, what draws us to one another, how we mold ourselves, bend, break and, most poignantly, how the repercussions of lies ripple through our lives.
Thank you Lindsay for the review that put this on my list! This is when Goodreads works so well, when we can discover a book that we might not have otherwise heard of, but that provided such a reflective reading experience.
November 25, 2017
Last year The Drowning Girls was one of my most pleasant surprises in terms of discovering a new to me author so I was super excited to get my hands on DeBoard’s latest novel. While this was very different from TDG I still enjoyed it and will always be a huge fan of the authors style.
This is told from two viewpoints, both Laura and Megan. It starts in 2016 before a press conference that’s obviously important to both women but the reasons behind it won’t be revealed for some time. It then skips back to when they were in college and meet for the first time. The past/present switch was very a effective tool here as it slowly draws you into these women’s lives and makes you desperate to know what’s ahead. DeBoard has a unique ability to capture the reader slowly and assuredly using a combination of steady, composed pacing and a gradual style of suspense that somehow sneaks up on you.
This isn’t a mystery in the typical sense of the word, there isn’t the usual scramble to figure out who committed a crime but rather you’re constantly wondering how things will play out in the end and what exactly will happen next. This is heavily character drive with a focus on getting to know both Lauren and Megan and dives deep into their histories and backgrounds. These two couldn’t be more different but they bond almost instantly and have an unmistakable chemistry.
I couldn’t believe how timely this was as it explored themes such as political scandals and sexual assault, parts of this could’ve been ripped from current headlines making for the kind of read that would be really fantastic for a book club. DeBoard is such a fluid writer who makes some keen observations, she’s extremely talented and I will continue to follow her closely.
This is told from two viewpoints, both Laura and Megan. It starts in 2016 before a press conference that’s obviously important to both women but the reasons behind it won’t be revealed for some time. It then skips back to when they were in college and meet for the first time. The past/present switch was very a effective tool here as it slowly draws you into these women’s lives and makes you desperate to know what’s ahead. DeBoard has a unique ability to capture the reader slowly and assuredly using a combination of steady, composed pacing and a gradual style of suspense that somehow sneaks up on you.
This isn’t a mystery in the typical sense of the word, there isn’t the usual scramble to figure out who committed a crime but rather you’re constantly wondering how things will play out in the end and what exactly will happen next. This is heavily character drive with a focus on getting to know both Lauren and Megan and dives deep into their histories and backgrounds. These two couldn’t be more different but they bond almost instantly and have an unmistakable chemistry.
I couldn’t believe how timely this was as it explored themes such as political scandals and sexual assault, parts of this could’ve been ripped from current headlines making for the kind of read that would be really fantastic for a book club. DeBoard is such a fluid writer who makes some keen observations, she’s extremely talented and I will continue to follow her closely.
October 28, 2018
I practically read this book in one sitting. The development of the friendship between Lauren and Megan was excellent. I felt for these young ladies and I loved both of their characters. This book would make an excellent selection for a book club, in my opinion. There is a lot to think about and a lot to discuss. This was my first book by this author but I will definitely look to read more of her books.
January 10, 2018
Here We Lie is an incredibly timely read. I do not want to risk spoiling any portion of the plot so I will just say that Here We Lie adds another useful and thoughtful perspective on an ongoing social/political issue dominating the news today. The book touches on numerous thought-provoking topics including female friendships, family ties, male dominance, and the harmful effects of brushing horrible events under the rug instead of addressing them head-on.
I struggled a little with Lauren and Megan’s relationship. Both girls are attempting to find their places in life, but they are such polar opposites and really on’t have what I would call a true friendship – it is more based on lies, privilege (on Lauren’s part), and the fact that they are both intrigued by the other; clearly as the story plays out they don’t really know each other that well. But maybe that is what DeBoard is getting at- ultimately how hard some female relationships can be.
I definitely enjoyed Here We Lie. I received this book to read and review. All opinions are my own.
I struggled a little with Lauren and Megan’s relationship. Both girls are attempting to find their places in life, but they are such polar opposites and really on’t have what I would call a true friendship – it is more based on lies, privilege (on Lauren’s part), and the fact that they are both intrigued by the other; clearly as the story plays out they don’t really know each other that well. But maybe that is what DeBoard is getting at- ultimately how hard some female relationships can be.
I definitely enjoyed Here We Lie. I received this book to read and review. All opinions are my own.
November 25, 2019
Lies, deceptions, unlikely friendships and survival
The story is about two roommates Lauren and Megan. Lauren is a senator’s daughter and Megan is a small-town girl from a middle class family.
It is told alternately from Lauren’s and Megan’s perspective and goes back and forth in time.
The book is well written and the story-line is compelling, but to tell the truth I was underwhelmed. From the beginning there are so many hints about what has happened 14 years ago that when we reach the actual revelation, it falls flat. I was expecting the author to pull a big twist out of her hat in the end, but nothing happens.
There are too many details about the daily routines of the characters that one longs to skip pages.
The story is about two roommates Lauren and Megan. Lauren is a senator’s daughter and Megan is a small-town girl from a middle class family.
It is told alternately from Lauren’s and Megan’s perspective and goes back and forth in time.
The book is well written and the story-line is compelling, but to tell the truth I was underwhelmed. From the beginning there are so many hints about what has happened 14 years ago that when we reach the actual revelation, it falls flat. I was expecting the author to pull a big twist out of her hat in the end, but nothing happens.
There are too many details about the daily routines of the characters that one longs to skip pages.
October 15, 2017
Due to be published at the end of January 2018, Here We Lie is my second encounter with Paula Treick DeBoard's literature following The Drowning Girls, her enthralling novel of domestic suspense which I read a few months ago and very much enjoyed. Paula Treick DeBoard reinvented herself in Here We Lie in the sense that she left the realm of psychological thriller/mystery/suspense that she had explored in her previous publication and switched focus to the anatomy of female friendship intertwined with the themes of sexual assault and political scandal. I have always held the novelists unafraid to try different literary genres in high regard.
Here We Lie reconfirms the quality of Treick DeBoard's storytelling skills. It is a slow-paced novel filled with well-done characterization and realistic, thought-provoking events. The chapters are told from Megan and Lauren's perspectives and follow the past, when the two were roommates at Keale College and close friends, and the present, when the former friendship is non-existent. Even though the author opted for a dual timeline, the past accounts for a greater part of the story as it provides an explanation for the current state of the relationship between the protagonists.
Speaking of the protagonists, Lauren has always been the rebellious member of her political and very wealthy family, whereas Megan comes from an ordinary family and has been able to afford college tuition following her father's death. Despite the evident antithesis regarding their backgrounds, the two form a close friendship when they become roommates, both being haunted by past secrets. While these characters are undoubtedly flawed and I have constantly wondered whether their friendship has ever been genuine, I wouldn't say they are despicable. I appreciated the fact that both Lauren and Megan were well-aware of their defects most of the time.
All in all, Here We Lie is a spellbinding novel that requires slow reading in order to savour the beautiful and flowing writing of Paula Treick DeBoard. I definitely recommend it to anyone who is looking for a well-written and complex female friendship-themed book!
I was fortunate to be provided with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Special thanks for this opportunity go to NetGalley, Harlequin (US & Canada) and Park Row Books.
Here We Lie reconfirms the quality of Treick DeBoard's storytelling skills. It is a slow-paced novel filled with well-done characterization and realistic, thought-provoking events. The chapters are told from Megan and Lauren's perspectives and follow the past, when the two were roommates at Keale College and close friends, and the present, when the former friendship is non-existent. Even though the author opted for a dual timeline, the past accounts for a greater part of the story as it provides an explanation for the current state of the relationship between the protagonists.
Speaking of the protagonists, Lauren has always been the rebellious member of her political and very wealthy family, whereas Megan comes from an ordinary family and has been able to afford college tuition following her father's death. Despite the evident antithesis regarding their backgrounds, the two form a close friendship when they become roommates, both being haunted by past secrets. While these characters are undoubtedly flawed and I have constantly wondered whether their friendship has ever been genuine, I wouldn't say they are despicable. I appreciated the fact that both Lauren and Megan were well-aware of their defects most of the time.
All in all, Here We Lie is a spellbinding novel that requires slow reading in order to savour the beautiful and flowing writing of Paula Treick DeBoard. I definitely recommend it to anyone who is looking for a well-written and complex female friendship-themed book!
I was fortunate to be provided with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Special thanks for this opportunity go to NetGalley, Harlequin (US & Canada) and Park Row Books.
July 24, 2019
This was a really good book. It is another take of friendship gone wrong but somehow with this book it feels fresh and new . I really REALLY like this author's style of writing .
Lauren and Megan are the names of the two estranged friends. This book contains everything I love in a book..friendships, secrets, POLITICS! (Yes!) and surprisingly a really REALLY powerful moral message with a strong nod to Feminism. I did not expect any of this.
I cannot say how often I have been let down after I have read one good book by a writer and loved it and then read a second.
In this case, I read her book "The Drowning girls" which I fell in love with.
So i was worried that I would not like her next book. Nothing could be further from the truth! This is a relevant and artfully written piece of fiction that any reader may love..not just mystery readers. Paula DeBoard is quite a writer. There was not one false note in the entire book.
I still count Drowning girls as a wee bit better but this stands on its own merits and is both moving and interesting. A strong 4.5 star rating.
Lauren and Megan are the names of the two estranged friends. This book contains everything I love in a book..friendships, secrets, POLITICS! (Yes!) and surprisingly a really REALLY powerful moral message with a strong nod to Feminism. I did not expect any of this.
I cannot say how often I have been let down after I have read one good book by a writer and loved it and then read a second.
In this case, I read her book "The Drowning girls" which I fell in love with.
So i was worried that I would not like her next book. Nothing could be further from the truth! This is a relevant and artfully written piece of fiction that any reader may love..not just mystery readers. Paula DeBoard is quite a writer. There was not one false note in the entire book.
I still count Drowning girls as a wee bit better but this stands on its own merits and is both moving and interesting. A strong 4.5 star rating.
February 2, 2018
Paula DeBoard does it again - intricately plotted, real charactes; I raced through this.
January 30, 2018
With Here We Lie, Paula Treick de Board spins a mesmerizing tale of two former best friends and one shocking secret. Suspenseful and evocative, with pitch-perfect prose and pacing, Here We Lie is a story that resonates long after the last word. An engrossing read.
February 10, 2018
I went into Here We Lie expecting it to be a psychological thriller, but it's not at all. It's really not any kind of mystery or thriller, although there is some suspense as the story builds toward revealing what happened to Megan. This book was really so much more than I expected though, and I highly recommend it. What I liked best about this book is the way it examines a friendship--the kind of intoxicating female friendship you have in your teens and early twenties, where you are so entangled with each other that it's nearly like a romantic relationship in some ways. I really loved immersing myself in Megan and Lauren's relationship and thinking back to my own friendships at that age and how very exciting they could be, but also how very fraught. This book is also a very timely story about sexual assault and its aftermath, and how powerful men can get away with it for so long. This is a great read, just don't go in expecting ever-increasing tension and twists, because it's not that kind of book.
September 4, 2017
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. I was contacted because I read and enjoyed this author's last book, The Drowning Girls, and I was thrilled to have a chance to read this one.
This book did one of my favorite things, which is to bounce from the past to the present to get the reader to the climax of the story. Megan and Lauren used to be good friends, but the book opens up at a time when they no longer keep in touch. Lauren is attending a press conference during which Megan is going to speak out about something that happened to her at the hands of Lauren's family. The rest of the book leads up to that press conference and breaks down the friendship of the two women and how they both came to be where they are.
Once I was finally able to sit down with it, I devoured this book. I loved the contrast between the lives of Megan and Lauren and how they were still able to form a deep friendship, despite these differences. Lauren comes from money and her family is highly involved in politics, a life way outside of my own, so it was interesting to me to get to read about the perks of her life.
This book has some tough themes, so it's not for the faint of heart to read about. However, it is also a book about friendship and survival, which definitely make it worth picking up. I love this author and recommend reading her!
This book did one of my favorite things, which is to bounce from the past to the present to get the reader to the climax of the story. Megan and Lauren used to be good friends, but the book opens up at a time when they no longer keep in touch. Lauren is attending a press conference during which Megan is going to speak out about something that happened to her at the hands of Lauren's family. The rest of the book leads up to that press conference and breaks down the friendship of the two women and how they both came to be where they are.
Once I was finally able to sit down with it, I devoured this book. I loved the contrast between the lives of Megan and Lauren and how they were still able to form a deep friendship, despite these differences. Lauren comes from money and her family is highly involved in politics, a life way outside of my own, so it was interesting to me to get to read about the perks of her life.
This book has some tough themes, so it's not for the faint of heart to read about. However, it is also a book about friendship and survival, which definitely make it worth picking up. I love this author and recommend reading her!
April 15, 2018
Here We Lie begins with a Senator in a sex scandal. Very á la Olivia Pope(ahem...cue the Scandal reference) The story is told in alternating points of view between two coming of age girls, Lauren Mabrey and Megan Mazeros and their unlikely friendship. Both from very different walks of life. The author, Paula Treick DeBoard goes back and forth between the past and the present to unravel what occurs in the first few pages of the book. She had me hooked right from the start! I highly enjoyed this book! Jealousy, betrayal, a complicated friendship and a compelling plot, made this a quick satisfying read!! I definitely recommend!!
**4.25 stars**
**4.25 stars**
November 22, 2017
This is the third book I’ve read by this author and definitely my favorite! While I don’t want to give anything away, I will say Here We Lie deals with incredibly timely issues, like sexual assault by those in positions of power. This is an important book and a great examination of why things play out the way they do in society. I’m certainly looking forward to reading whatever else Ms. DeBoard writes in the future.
I received an advance copy from the Great Thought’s Ninja Review Team. All opinions are my own.
I received an advance copy from the Great Thought’s Ninja Review Team. All opinions are my own.
February 18, 2018
My first time reading this author and I really enjoy her writing. She built wonderful characters. This book had it all friendship ,betrayal, sexual assault and political scandals.
March 16, 2018
3.5 stars
For the most part, I really enjoyed this engaging tale of friendship, politics & the dirtiness accompanied by them and trying to live your most authentic self. I hadn't read anything by this author before but I will certainly be looking out for her future works. DeBoard did a fantastic job of fleshing out Megan & Lauren, making each girl truly stand apart from each other. I could relate to bits & pieces of both; the characterization is spot on here.
Admittedly, I did find HERE WE LIE a bit slow in the beginning, but about 35% in it sped up & I was eager to see the outcome. I enjoyed the then/now chapters, but wish the present chapters were longer. Unfortunately, I was let down by the end. All of that emotional build up & Megan revealing what happened to her & yet it all tied together neatly (as far as the consequences of someone else's actions). Perhaps it was meant to be a set a realistic tone as that's the all too common reality, but I think it would have been interesting if DeBoard went another way & didn't give that character an easy way out- at least, not without a fight.
As far as this novel's relevancy, in the time of the #metoo movement, more & more stories like Megan's needs to be shared. I think that her actions & the route she goes down would make for a nice book club selection & discussion. Without the late start & mediocre ending I would have certainly given this a 4*. Would recommend this to those looking for strong female MCs & mystery.
For the most part, I really enjoyed this engaging tale of friendship, politics & the dirtiness accompanied by them and trying to live your most authentic self. I hadn't read anything by this author before but I will certainly be looking out for her future works. DeBoard did a fantastic job of fleshing out Megan & Lauren, making each girl truly stand apart from each other. I could relate to bits & pieces of both; the characterization is spot on here.
Admittedly, I did find HERE WE LIE a bit slow in the beginning, but about 35% in it sped up & I was eager to see the outcome. I enjoyed the then/now chapters, but wish the present chapters were longer. Unfortunately, I was let down by the end. All of that emotional build up & Megan revealing what happened to her & yet it all tied together neatly (as far as the consequences of someone else's actions). Perhaps it was meant to be a set a realistic tone as that's the all too common reality, but I think it would have been interesting if DeBoard went another way & didn't give that character an easy way out- at least, not without a fight.
As far as this novel's relevancy, in the time of the #metoo movement, more & more stories like Megan's needs to be shared. I think that her actions & the route she goes down would make for a nice book club selection & discussion. Without the late start & mediocre ending I would have certainly given this a 4*. Would recommend this to those looking for strong female MCs & mystery.
August 4, 2018
Hoping this would be better than it was. With everything going on in the Me Too movement, this felt like something that actually happened in today’s news. Just ok for me.
January 28, 2018
*** ARC provided by the author for an honest review ***
Two unlikely women become friends and develop a closeness that is significantly changed one summer, and their lives will never be the same. Here We Lie by Paula Treick DeBoard, brings us Megan Mazeros, a Midwestern girl, just trying to find direction in her life and Lauren Mabrey, the senator’s daughter.
Megan Mazeros has had a hard time in life. She had a happy family, as an only child to her parents, there was so much love and happiness. Unfortunately, she loses her father to cancer, and her life is changed forever by this loss. She took a gap year after high school in order to spend time with her father. After his death, his life insurance policy allows for her to be able to go away to school and she does. Her roommate situation doesn’t work out, and she ends up being roommates with Lauren Mabrey.
Lauren has had some issues in her life. The youngest daughter of a senator and an heiress, she just doesn’t feel as if she can do anything right. She wants to go away to school to attempt to become a better person. Her past has been a series of trouble that has been covered up, and she is just ready to show that she can be a better person. Her roommate situation is a bust, so she becomes roommates with Megan.
From this time freshman year, the two are inseparable. They are as close as sisters. Although Megan lies about her past in intricate stories told over time, the two keep in touch over summers and eventually spend their breaks together. One fateful summer, their lives and relationship are significantly changed.
Fourteen years later, Megan comes forward to speak a truth that she has held to herself for years. You are not sure what happened. You are not sure who it happened with, but you are sure that once you find out, you will never be the same.
I loved this book. I read the summary, and was just so-so interested in reading this book. After I started the book though, I just wanted to know what happened. And when I turned the last page, I just could not believe what happened. How a series of events, choices and life can change the outcome of your future. This book was amazing. Five stars.
Two unlikely women become friends and develop a closeness that is significantly changed one summer, and their lives will never be the same. Here We Lie by Paula Treick DeBoard, brings us Megan Mazeros, a Midwestern girl, just trying to find direction in her life and Lauren Mabrey, the senator’s daughter.
Megan Mazeros has had a hard time in life. She had a happy family, as an only child to her parents, there was so much love and happiness. Unfortunately, she loses her father to cancer, and her life is changed forever by this loss. She took a gap year after high school in order to spend time with her father. After his death, his life insurance policy allows for her to be able to go away to school and she does. Her roommate situation doesn’t work out, and she ends up being roommates with Lauren Mabrey.
Lauren has had some issues in her life. The youngest daughter of a senator and an heiress, she just doesn’t feel as if she can do anything right. She wants to go away to school to attempt to become a better person. Her past has been a series of trouble that has been covered up, and she is just ready to show that she can be a better person. Her roommate situation is a bust, so she becomes roommates with Megan.
From this time freshman year, the two are inseparable. They are as close as sisters. Although Megan lies about her past in intricate stories told over time, the two keep in touch over summers and eventually spend their breaks together. One fateful summer, their lives and relationship are significantly changed.
Fourteen years later, Megan comes forward to speak a truth that she has held to herself for years. You are not sure what happened. You are not sure who it happened with, but you are sure that once you find out, you will never be the same.
I loved this book. I read the summary, and was just so-so interested in reading this book. After I started the book though, I just wanted to know what happened. And when I turned the last page, I just could not believe what happened. How a series of events, choices and life can change the outcome of your future. This book was amazing. Five stars.
June 13, 2019
For full review - The Limit of Books Does Not Exist
I bought this novel at a local book sale just based on the cover and a brief skim of the back of the novel. I went in with low expectations and I ended up being very surprised on how much I liked Here We Lie.
The novel starts in present day with Megan and Lauren and right away we can tell it’s not very good news. It’s a bit unclear what the scandal is, but it’s bad. Then the novel shifts back in time and goes into Megan and Lauren’s lives and what brought them together.
Both Megan and Lauren have their flaws, but it’s easy to warm up to them and get caught up in their stories. The only part that I wasn’t fully invested in was Megan’s and Lauren’s friendship. It didn’t seem that it was too genuine since there was a lot of secrets and lies from both of them.
Check this out as a summertime read. It has secrets, scandals with a touch of seriousness that makes you think about your own friendships!
I bought this novel at a local book sale just based on the cover and a brief skim of the back of the novel. I went in with low expectations and I ended up being very surprised on how much I liked Here We Lie.
The novel starts in present day with Megan and Lauren and right away we can tell it’s not very good news. It’s a bit unclear what the scandal is, but it’s bad. Then the novel shifts back in time and goes into Megan and Lauren’s lives and what brought them together.
Both Megan and Lauren have their flaws, but it’s easy to warm up to them and get caught up in their stories. The only part that I wasn’t fully invested in was Megan’s and Lauren’s friendship. It didn’t seem that it was too genuine since there was a lot of secrets and lies from both of them.
Check this out as a summertime read. It has secrets, scandals with a touch of seriousness that makes you think about your own friendships!
January 31, 2018
I know several other reviews have said this, or will say this when written, but this is such an important book for this time of power and money over facts and truth.
I enjoyed how this book was told in both alternating view points and periods of time. It kept the story moving but also left a few things up in the air. The author mentions some events just vague enough to keep you wondering which characters were involved and which are effected by it.
I liked the friendship between Lauren and Megan—I really liked Lauren’s character up until the climax. I felt for Megan and for any one else that has to experience and then live with something so terrible. While I know this particular case is fiction, it’s sickening that there are so many cases that are true.
Again, a very well written, timely story. I received an Advanced Review Copy. All thoughts are my own.
I enjoyed how this book was told in both alternating view points and periods of time. It kept the story moving but also left a few things up in the air. The author mentions some events just vague enough to keep you wondering which characters were involved and which are effected by it.
I liked the friendship between Lauren and Megan—I really liked Lauren’s character up until the climax. I felt for Megan and for any one else that has to experience and then live with something so terrible. While I know this particular case is fiction, it’s sickening that there are so many cases that are true.
Again, a very well written, timely story. I received an Advanced Review Copy. All thoughts are my own.
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