Two Truths and a Lie by Meg Mitchell Moore: Book Review

 Last summer I enjoyed the author’s book “The Islanders” and anticipated what this summer might bring. Her new book “Two Truths and a Lie” does not disappoint.

The book is set in the beach town of Newburyport, Massachusetts at the beginning of summer and is told from multiple point of views. Sherri Griffin and her 11 year old daughter Katie have recently moved to town, having left Ohio after a “bad divorce”. Over the past few months, their lives have changed dramatically. She is happy to meet Rebecca Coleman and her two daughters Alexa 17 and Morgan 11. Rebecca was the informal leader of the “Mom Squad” – a group of the town’s women who have daughters of similar age. But since the passing of her husband eighteen months ago, she prefers to be less engaged to this superficial group. These two women create a bond – each is a single mother trying to make it on their own in a town where everyone is closely examined and gossiped about.

At the beginning of the book, we learn of a tragic accident involving a white Acura. We do not know who is involved, or the circumstances. There is more than one white Acura in town and I must say I failed at guessing what would eventually be disclosed. There is indeed a lot of secrets surrounding the people of Newburyport, and the author does a great job of revealing these secrets one at a time.

I really enjoyed Two Truths and a Lie. It keep me engaged and wanting to know more. The characters are interesting and, for the most part, likeable. There is one moment in the book reminiscent of Julia Robert’s “big mistake” scene in Pretty Woman which had thinking “you go girl!” This book is part mystery, part beach read and checks off many of the boxes I look for in a book. The book feels, however, that there is much left to say. Is it too much to hope that the author thinks so as well?

I listened to the audiobook edition of the book which was performed by one of my favourite narrators, Courtney Patterson. I appreciate the quality and versatility of her voice in enhancing this wonderful read.