If you want a good mystery this is not it.

The Aussie accent was neither here nor there. The world of kindergarten politics was excruciating to those of us without kids. If it had been an interesting classic murder mystery it may have been ok. To suffer through 9/10 of the book before the murder and the saccharine sweet finish. Meh

10 people found this helpful

Oh, Calamity!

Kindergarten Politics. I never had children, but I imagine that those two words strike heart-stopping fear in any parent with a child entering elementary school. Liane Moriarty took me through the experience with all the irony, hilarity, fear and poignancy possible. I loved the format of the story-telling. It was clear who was talking at each point of the story, but the story was written to allow each witness to say a paragraph or so about how they saw the event. As you can imagine, lots of differing viewpoints. For the main characters, Madeline, Celeste and Jane, their stories alternated from chapter to chapter. I would love to meet them for coffee anytime.

The narrator was outstanding in every way. I always knew who was talking, but the emotions generated by these stories were clear to the listener. I have no complaints with this narrator.

There is a death and an investigation, but it is actually minor to the rest of the story. Just the setting for the death, a Kindergarten Trivia Night in which everyone dressed as Elvis or Audry Hepburn, makes it funny to me.

If this book sounds like something you would never want to hear, let me tell you, I resisted my many friends begging me to read this story. Boy, am I glad I got away from my comfort zone to listen to this excellent story. I will go to Liane Moriarty again!!

220 people found this helpful

Great story. Genius writing

I've never experienced a book quite like this one. I'm exhausted from listening to it. I was on the edge of my seat through the entire story. As each new fact was revealed I was impatient to see what happened next.
I laughed and laughed dozens of times. And I cried once, standing in the grocery store holding my breath waiting to see what happened. I was totally invested in the character and story development.
What makes the writing truly genius was that all of the reactions I listed above came from small, simple things that happened in the story. There weren't big, unbelievable action scenes or sweeping romances, just daily, simple, life-happenings that added up in just the right (or wrong) way.
And the ending...perfect. It was worthy of the rest of the story. The ending was long and satisfying.
I loved the narrator. I think she really added to it. Her voice squeaked and cracked and felt very real.
I loved, loved, and enthusiastically recommend this book.

356 people found this helpful

WOW- what a wicked web we weave!

I generally don't take the time to write reviews but am taking the time now. If you have enjoyed all of Liane Moriarty's other books, then you will enjoy this one too! It will definitely not be rated the "feel good" story of the year but very brilliantly crafted and inter-woven. I found the narrator very likable and believable and enjoyed listening to her accent. I was concerned a bit based on another review I had read as I cherish my credits and am very careful what I use them on, but am delighted to report that this book was very credit worthy!

65 people found this helpful

didn't like the readers voice

i struggled to finish it. i didn't like the readers voice. just couldn't get in to it

6 people found this helpful

You Must Buy This Book!!

I love Liane Moriarty, her books keep you guessing from beginning to end. She has the rare talent of combining humor with serious topics without being insensitive. In this wonderful mystery/comedy/commentary on modern life and helicopter parents she is at the top of her game. To give any hints would give away the story. Other reviewers have done a great job, so I can only add that this book will resonate with any parent or educator. It will keep you listening and the ending will not disappoint! MUST LISTEN!!!

76 people found this helpful

Too much wining

I never do reviews but i had to say something about this book. I couldn't get through it! That is rare for me.
But it made me sick and depressed to hear over and over about ancient history ruling these women's lives.
We all have a past with some bad things but the object of life is to learn from it and move on!

4 people found this helpful

Very entertaining!

What did you love best about Big Little Lies?

The character development, the characters themselves, and the somewhat "dark" humor

What did you like best about this story?

There are lessons to be learned, and all of its flawed characters teach us those lessons.

What does Caroline Lee bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Her voice inflections greatly added to the story, she has a very pleasing voice to listen to.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

How to avoid a "train wreck" in life.

Any additional comments?

The story droned on just a bit in areas, but the characters were so entertaining that I didn't mind.

52 people found this helpful

New Liane Moriarty fans!

My husband and I listened to this book while driving to (and from) a vacation destination, and were thoroughly engrossed throughout. A very interesting presentation of events, EXCELLENT narration, and a satisfying ending all worked to make this a 5 star book.

60 people found this helpful

LOVED this book!

What did you love best about Big Little Lies?

This book kept me wanting to listen, kept me awake to listen, until the very end.

Any additional comments?

I rarely write a review even thought I have listened to at least two books a week for the last two years. I don't want to give anything away. I think it is best to listen to this book knowing nothing about the story. You will NOT regret the credit!!

82 people found this helpful