Please Don’t Lie (by Christina Baker Kline)
I was excited to acquire Please Don’t Lie by Christina Baker Kline and Anne Burt through the Amazon First Reads program. Having enjoyed A Piece of the World, I was curious to explore Kline’s foray into domestic thrillers, given her expertise in historical fiction. This marks the first installment in the Crystal River series.
The story follows Hayley Stone, a young woman grappling with the aftermath of devastating personal losses two years prior. Seeking anonymity and a fresh start, she relocates with her new husband to a remote, isolated mountain town in the Adirondacks. Initially, this seemingly idyllic setting offers an escape, but it soon unveils darker undercurrents. Secrets, shifting dynamics in her marriage, and the isolating environment test her sense of safety and reality.
Overall, the novel was fairly good as it gave me suspenseful feelings throughout the story. I couldn’t trust any of the characters, which kept me engaged and curious about the unfolding events. The setting of the Adirondacks, with the winter season approaching, created a sense of impending drama and tension.
However, it’s challenging to pinpoint why I found this book to be just okay. While it was good enough to finish, it didn’t leave a lasting impression. Perhaps it’s because I struggle to empathize with a character who is wealthy, indulges in her desires without regard for financial responsibility, and lacks the foresight to check her account balance. Additionally, I found it difficult to connect with an extroverted protagonist who impulsively gets married and moves to an isolated mountain town without any knowledge of how to survive the winter.
Having thoroughly enjoyed A Piece of the World, I’m inclined to stick with Kline’s historical fiction books from now on. Nevertheless, I’m curious to learn more about the next installment in the Crystal River series.
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