13 books like Big Little Lies

13 books like Big Little Lies

March 30, 2024
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Written by: the NextBook team
Hey there, fellow book lovers! So, you've stumbled upon the brilliant and addictive world of "Big Little Lies," huh? Well, let me tell you, you're in for a wild ride! In this little guide to all things "Big Little Lies," we're going to unravel the secrets, explore the scandals, and dish out a healthy dose of gossip about this captivating novel by Liane Moriarty. Buckle up, because we're about to dive headfirst into the twisted web of lies and drama that lies beneath the surface of this seemingly idyllic seaside town. Now, let's start with the basics. "Big Little Lies" is a gripping tale that takes place in the picturesque setting of Monterey, California. But don't let the beautiful scenery fool you; beneath the shiny exterior lies a dark and tangled underbelly of parents, schools, cliques, and, of course, secrets. As you follow the lives of fierce and fabulous women like Madeline, Celeste, and Jane, you'll find yourself drawn into a world of mommy wars, playground politics, and jaw-dropping revelations that will make you gasp and cringe in equal measure. So, why should you pick up "Big Little Lies"? Well, my friend, if you're in the mood for a rollercoaster of emotions, this book has got you covered. It's a masterful blend of mystery, drama, and humor that will keep you flipping those pages eagerly as you unravel the tangled threads of intrigue. Get ready to lose sleep, neglect household chores, and forget about the outside world because once you start reading "Big Little Lies," there's no going back. And guess what? If you find yourself hooked on this intoxicating cocktail of secrets and suspense, we've got your back. In the upcoming sections, we'll be dishing out recommendations for other books in the same vein as "Big Little Lies." So buckle up, get comfy, and prepare yourself for a whirlwind tour of captivating stories that will satisfy your craving for gripping tales that keep you on the edge of your seat. Happy reading!
The Book Cover Image for Big Little Lies
The Book Cover Image for Big Little Lies
Dystopian
Adventure
Coming of Age

Divergent

In a dystopian society, "Divergent" follows Tris Prior as she discovers her unique identity and challenges the rigid system that divides people based on their traits. With action, romance, and exploration of identity, this book takes readers on a thrilling journey of self-discovery and rebellion.
Author
Veronica Roth
Year Written
2011
Divergent
Dystopian
Adventure
Survival

The Hunger Games

"The Hunger Games" is a dystopian novel set in a future where children from different districts are forced to compete in a televised fight to the death. It follows the story of Katniss Everdeen as she defies the oppressive regime and fights for survival and rebellion.
Author
Suzanne Collins
Year Written
2008
The Hunger Games
Dystopia
Coming of Age
Societal Control

The Giver

"The Giver" is a dystopian novel set in a seemingly perfect society where the absence of pain and emotions is maintained through strict control. When twelve-year-old Jonas is chosen to receive memories of the past from the community's sole Receiver, he starts to question the society's true cost of harmony.
Author
Lois Lowry
Year Written
1993
The Giver
Science Fiction
Dystopian
Young Adult

The 5th Wave

"The 5th Wave" is a thrilling science fiction novel set in a post-apocalyptic world, where humanity is facing waves of deadly attacks. The story follows a young girl named Cassie as she fights for survival and seeks to uncover the truth about the alien invaders.
Author
Rick Yancey
Year Written
2013
The 5th Wave
Dystopian
Young Adult
Thriller

Legend

"Legend" is a dystopian young adult novel set in a future where the United States is divided into two warring factions. It follows the thrilling journey of a prodigious teenage criminal, Day, and a driven young prodigy, June, as their paths intertwine in a quest for truth and justice.
Author
Marie Lu
Year Written
2011
Legend
Science Fiction
Young Adult
Military

Ender's Game

"Ender's Game" is a gripping science fiction novel that follows the story of Andrew "Ender" Wiggin, a young boy enlisted in an advanced military school in order to prepare for an impending alien invasion. As Ender navigates intense training, complex interpersonal relationships, and ethical dilemmas, the book explores themes of leadership, morality, and the effects of war on youth.
Author
Orson Scott Card.
Year Written
1985
Ender's Game

The Selection

"The Selection" is a captivating and romantic dystopian novel where a young girl is thrust into a competition to win the heart of a prince. The book delves into themes of love, social class, and the struggle for acceptance, making it an engaging read for fans of romance and dystopian fiction.
Author
Kiera Cass
Year Written
2012
The Selection
Fantasy
Dystopian
Young Adult

Red Queen

"Red Queen" is a captivating fantasy novel set in a dystopian world divided by blood, where the color of your blood determines your social standing and superhuman abilities. The story follows Mare, a young woman who discovers she possesses a unique power that threatens to disrupt the balance of power and ignite a revolution.
Author
Victoria Aveyard
Year Written
2015
Red Queen
Dystopian
Thriller
Adventure

The Scorch Trials

"The Scorch Trials" is a gripping dystopian thriller that follows a group of young survivors as they navigate a treacherous and post-apocalyptic landscape. Faced with deadly challenges and mysterious trials, they must uncover the truth about their world and fight for their survival.
Author
James Dashner
Year Written
2010
The Scorch Trials
Dystopian
Coming of Age
Science Fiction

The Knife of Never Letting Go

"The Knife of Never Letting Go" is a gripping dystopian novel that follows Todd Hewitt, the last boy in a town where everyone can hear each other's thoughts. When he discovers a patch of silence and a mysterious girl, Viola, Todd embarks on a perilous journey to uncover the truth about his world and protect Viola from those who seek to control her.
Author
Patrick Ness
Year Written
2008
The Knife of Never Letting Go
Dystopian
Romance
Rebellion

Matched

"Matched" is a captivating dystopian novel where society controls every aspect of its citizens' lives, including who they marry. The protagonist, Cassia, is thrown into a whirlwind of rebellion and self-discovery when she falls in love with someone other than her pre-determined match.
Author
Ally Condie
Year Written
2010
Matched
Dystopian
Young Adult
Romance

Delirium

"Delirium" is a dystopian novel set in a world where love is considered a disease and is eradicated through a procedure. The story follows Lena, a young girl who discovers the power of love and questions the oppressive society she lives in.
Author
Lauren Oliver
Year Written
2011
Delirium
Dystopian
Survival
Young Adult

Enclave

Enclave is a gripping dystopian novel that follows the story of a young girl named Deuce, living in a harsh underground society known as the Enclave. As she is assigned a dangerous role as a Huntress and ventures to the treacherous surface, Deuce discovers a world filled with dangers and revelations that challenge everything she thought she knew.
Author
Ann Aguirre
Year Written
2011
Enclave

FAQ

Overview

In the seemingly perfect town of Monterey, California, secrets lurk beneath the pristine surface, and small lies snowball into a web of deception. "Big Little Lies" by Liane Moriarty weaves the lives of a group of mothers together, painting a vivid portrait of their friendship, rivalries, and the dark complexities that connect them. As the tension builds, a shocking act of violence sets off a chain of events that rocks the community to its core, forcing the women to confront their own skeletons in the closet. This gripping tale of love, loyalty, and the cost of keeping up appearances delves deep into the lives of Madeline, Celeste, Jane, and their fellow townsfolk, revealing the tangled truths that bind them all. Through Moriarty's sharp and witty prose, "Big Little Lies" tackles weighty themes such as abuse, motherhood, and societal expectations with a finesse that keeps readers turning pages long into the night. By exploring the intricacies of female relationships, the novel pulls back the curtain on the masks we wear and the secrets we hide, reminding us that even in the picture-perfect world, darkness can lurk in unexpected places. With its mesmerizing blend of suspense, humor, and heart, "Big Little Lies" captures the essence of human vulnerability, leaving readers enthralled and eager to untangle the web of deceit within these captivating pages.

Length of Read

The average reader, reading at a speed of 300 WPM, would take 8 hours and 5 minutes to read Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty.

Main Characters

Alright, let's meet the fierce ladies of "Big Little Lies" who bring this story to life: - Madeline Martha Mackenzie: A sassy and fearless force of nature, Madeline's wit and determination make her the heart and soul of the group, always ready to defend her friends and stand up for what's right. - Celeste Wright: The epitome of beauty and grace, Celeste's haunting secret adds a layer of darkness to the story, shedding light on the complexities of abusive relationships and the strength it takes to break free. - Jane Chapman: A mysterious newcomer with a heartbreaking past, Jane's quiet strength and unwavering love for her son bring a fresh perspective to the group, setting off a chain of events that unravel the town's secrets. - Renata Klein: A fiercely ambitious and no-nonsense businesswoman, Renata's determination to protect her daughter and maintain her perfect image adds a fiery and often contentious dynamic to the group. - Bonnie Carlson: The epitome of zen and peace, Bonnie's calm and compassionate nature provides a soothing contrast to the chaos and drama around her, but her secrets hold the key to the shocking climax of the story. Each of these ladies brings their own unique flavor to the mix, making "Big Little Lies" a captivating tale of friendship, motherhood, and the masks we wear. From Madeline's sharp tongue to Celeste's haunting vulnerability, their distinct personalities add depth and complexity to the narrative, keeping readers hooked until the very end.

Ending & Meaning

Alright, hold on tight because we're about to spill the beans on the explosive ending of "Big Little Lies"! As the tension reaches its boiling point at the school's trivia night, the truth finally bursts forth like a shaken soda can. Brace yourself, because it turns out that Perry, the abusive husband of Celeste, meets a tragic end, plunging to his demise after a heated confrontation with Bonnie. Talk about a jaw-dropping twist! But this isn't just a shocking conclusion to a gripping mystery; it also shines a spotlight on the dark underbelly of domestic violence and the lengths people will go to protect their loved ones. Now, let's dive into the themes and meaning that lie beneath the surface of this explosive finale. "Big Little Lies" delves deep into the power of female solidarity, highlighting the strength that can be found in a community of women. Through the characters of Madeline, Celeste, and Jane, the story emphasizes the importance of leaning on one another during difficult times and standing up against injustice. It also explores the masks we wear in society, as each character hides their own struggles behind a carefully constructed image of perfection. The ending reminds us that beneath the seemingly idyllic lives we present to the world, there is often a complex web of secrets and pain waiting to be untangled. So, buckle up for a thrilling ride that tackles themes of friendship, motherhood, and the hidden depths of human nature. "Big Little Lies" will leave you contemplating the power of truth, the strength of women, and the lengths we'll go to protect those we love. Get ready to be captivated, shocked, and moved by this unforgettable tale that lingers in your mind long after the final page.
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