Review: Liar

by Justine Larbalestier

Review: Micah has been a liar her whole life, and now she's going to tell you about it. She'll tell you about the murder at the school, her family, her history, her life. This time, she's not going to lie.

At least, that's what she tells us. But how do you know whether to believe a liar?

Summary: I couldn't put Liar down. Micah's voice is compelling and addictive; her stories quirky and original. You feel like there's something you're not grasping, and that keeps the story going.

It started out fantastic. A quick read; a sure success. About half way through Micah gets a little boring (it is a good length book), and Larbalestier must know that because suddenly were back up and down another roller coaster of events.

I must say, I didn't see any of the twists and turns in this book coming. Looking back, I can see some hints, but I totally missed them. Most books you can kind of predict what's going to happen, but with Liar, you think you know where it's going, and then you're surprised.

FANTASTIC.

The characters were starkly realistic, and I almost felt like I was intruding on Micah's mind. She made me uncomfortable, sorry, surprised, and more.

My only two complaints were:

1) The language. I felt like the book could have been fine without it. There was also some mention of homosexuality which was explained, but still just awkward.

2) The cover. While the cover is freaking awesome, it looks nothing like Micah is supposed to look like. She's described as african american, looks like a boy, and with close-cropped hair.

NOT a cute girl with a stylish bang. But the cover is well done other than that, and I would definitely pick the book up based on that.

Overall, an excellent book with strong characters and a brilliant plot, but some unneccessary language that could turn away an audience of readers.

4.5 Stars

384 Pages

TBR September 29, 2009