Ruth Ware’s The Lying Game captivates with its suspenseful and atmospheric narrative, weaving a tale of deep friendships and buried secrets. Critics praise Ware's knack for setting and tension but note some sluggish pacing and less compelling character depth. Readers seeking a slow-burn thriller will find it engaging, though not groundbreaking.

Fans of psychological thrillers like Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn and The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins will enjoy Ruth Ware's The Lying Game. This reader appreciates intricate, suspenseful plots centered on dark secrets, complex friendships, and unexpected twists. Ideal for those who thrive on tension and unraveling mysteries.

In Ruth Ware's psychological thriller, The Lying Game, four women—Isa, Fatima, Thea, and Kate—are summoned back to Salten by a text from Kate, leading them to confront a secret from 17 years ago when they hid the body of Kate's father, Ambrose. As their past deceit threatens to unravel, they must navigate a web of lies while dealing with personal challenges, strained friendships, and looming exposure. Sensitive topics include addiction and abuse.

Mysterious / Suspenseful / Dark / Unnerving / Emotional

Ruth Ware

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

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The Lying Game Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

“Rule One: Tell a Lie”

Prologue-Chapter 7

The Lying Game Prologue-Chapter 7 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-14

The Lying Game Chapters 8-14 Summary & Analysis

“Rule Two: Stick to Your Story”

Chapters 15-22

The Lying Game Chapters 15-22 Summary & Analysis

“Rule Three: Don’t Get Caught”

Chapters 23-32

The Lying Game Chapters 23-32 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 33-41

The Lying Game Chapters 33-41 Summary & Analysis

“Rule Four: Never Lie to Each Other”

Chapters 42-50

The Lying Game Chapters 42-50 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 51-60

The Lying Game Chapters 51-60 Summary & Analysis

“Rule Five: Know When to Stop Lying”

Chapters 61-67

The Lying Game Chapters 61-67 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Lying Game Character Analysis

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Themes

The Lying Game Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Lying Game Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Lying Game Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Lying Game Essay Topics

The Lying Game

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Lying Game?

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Book Details