In this intense and intimate family portrait that moves at a thriller’s pace, a troubled woman faces a gripping moral dilemma after rescuing two abandoned children from a hurricane. On the outskirts of North Carolina’s Outer Banks sits the Paradise, an apartment complex where renters never stay long enough to call the place “home”—and neighbors are seldom neighborly. It’s ideal for Sara Lennox, … ideal for Sara Lennox, who moved there to escape a complicated past—and even her name—and rebuild a new life for herself under the radar. But Sara cannot help but notice the family next door, especially twelve-year-old Cassie and five-year-old Boon. She hears rumors and whispers of a recent tragedy slowly tearing them apart.
When a raging storm threatens then slams the coastal community, Sara makes a quick, bold decision: Rescue Cassie and Boon from the storm and their broken home—without telling a soul. But this seemingly noble act is not without consequences. Some lethal.
Carla Buckley crafts a richly rewarding psychological portrait, combining a heart-wrenching family drama with high-stakes suspense, as the lives of three characters intertwine in an unforgettable story of fury, fate—and redemption.
Praise for The Liar’s Child
“Surprising and rewarding . . . Ms. Buckley does what only the best suspense writers can do: She makes you care about what happens to her characters, provoking your emotions as well as your curiosity.”—The Wall Street Journal
“Buckley has crafted a complex and compelling story. The nuances and dynamics at play in The Liar’s Child will take the most jaded reader on a heartfelt and emotional journey.”—Associated Press
“A wonderfully complex and multilayered drama complete with the suspense that keeps the pages turning. Fans of Kate White and Diane Chamberlain will be asking if it’s possible for a child to leave the past behind long after the book ends.”—Booklist
“Carla Buckley’s superb psychological thrillers are always emotionally wrenching but The Liar’s Child packs a visceral gut punch that knocks the wind right out of us . . . Emotive writing that packs a wallop to both the heart and the mind.”—Book Trib
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I’ve read ‘The Deepest Secret’ by this author and thoroughly enjoyed it. Unfortunately, for me this book did not live up to my expectations. I found the story slow moving until mid way thru when the Hurricane hit. From here, it took off at a much faster pace. It is in no way a cheerful read, it’s a down-on-your-luck sad read. The last chapter and the Epilogue were more hopeful. But, I finished it with too many questions. Story is told in 4 voices, until the Epilogue.
I really did not like most of the characters, except for Boon, an adorable little boy caught in a bad situation along with his sister, Cassie, a teenager with major attitude, rightfully so but needing her parents to step up and parent. Whit, the Dad, who tries to keep everyone happy. Diane, the Mom, who is selfish and self-centered. Sara, trying to save herself in the Witness Protection Program. Hank, an ex-cop with a past that we learn about late.
I do enjoy Ms. Buckley’s story telling and look forward to reading her again. Thanks to NegGalley, the author and Ballantine Books for this ARC. Opinion is mine alone.