Review of Big Lies in a Small Town by Diane Chamberlain
As a longtime fan of Diane Chamberlain, I’ve often found myself swept away by her exquisite storytelling and compelling characters. From the moment I read Necessary Lies in 2014, her novels have dug deep into themes of humanity and resilience that resonate long after the final page is turned. Her latest offering, Big Lies in a Small Town, is no exception, grabbing my attention from the get-go with its dual timelines and rich, evocative scenes. The multi-layered narrative intrigues and invites readers to contemplate how history echoes in our present lives—who could resist diving into that?
In Big Lies in a Small Town, we’re introduced to Morgan Christopher, a young woman grappling with her recent release from a women’s correctional facility. Her journey begins with a surprising proposition: to restore a mural created by the enigmatic artist Anna Dale. Set against a backdrop of Edenton, North Carolina in both 1939 and 2018, we delve into the lives of two women bound by art, struggle, and societal expectations. Chamberlain expertly weaves their stories together, crafting a mesmerizing tapestry that reveals the secrets hidden beneath the surface of this seemingly quaint town.
Thematically, the novel doesn’t shy away from heavy topics like racism, mental illness, and the challenges of navigating a world that often doesn’t have women’s stories at its heart. As I read, I felt a palpable connection to Morgan, whose personal struggles felt relatable and raw. Her self-doubt about restoring the mural pulls at your heartstrings and mirrors Anna’s own internal turmoil as she faces the complexities of her artistic vision being at odds with the townsfolk’s expectations.
Chamberlain’s writing continues to be as engaging as ever. I found her pacing just right—each chapter left me eager to flip to the next one while basking in the beauty of her descriptions. I especially loved the insights into the characters’ emotions; lines like “This is the new Morgan, I thought sadly to myself. The Morgan afraid at the outside world” guided my understanding of her vulnerability. It made me reflect on how much we often learn about ourselves when confronted with change.
The duality of time in this book is remarkable. Chamberlain’s ability to switch between narratives not only highlights how past decisions shape present dilemmas but also paints a complex picture of a community grappling with its history. I was especially struck by the line, "Whatever you don’t complete comes back to haunt you." It encapsulates the haunting reality that both Anna and Morgan face, inviting readers to ponder their own “uncompleted stories.”
Ultimately, Big Lies in a Small Town is a thought-provoking tale that beautifully intertwines the lives of two compelling women across generations. Readers who enjoy richly developed characters, thoughtful explorations of societal issues, and a well-drawn sense of place will likely find this book a fulfilling read. Personally, it left me reflecting on the weight of our historical narratives and the resilience of the human spirit. After closing this novel, I’m reminded yet again of Chamberlain’s ability to craft stories that linger, asking us to confront our own truths.
Thank you, NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press, for allowing me the pleasure of reading this masterpiece. Diane Chamberlain has once again proven that she can touch hearts while challenging minds with her storytelling. If you haven’t picked up this book yet, what are you waiting for? Dive in and uncover the big lies that have shaped a small town—and perhaps, your own reality.
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