Truly Madly Guilty

by Liane Moriarty
Truly Madly Guilty cover
Good Books rating 3.03
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 10603
  • Added: 2026-02-01
  • Updated: 2026-02-03
  • ISBN: 9781405919456
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2016-07-28
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Truly Madly Guilty by Liane Moriarty, the author behind the hit HBO series Big Little Lies, is a compelling exploration of the bonds of friendship and the fragility of marriage. The story begins with a seemingly ordinary barbecue in the suburbs, but as the evening unfolds, lifelong friendships are shattered, marriages are tested, and an innocent life is lost. The narrative weaves together the perspectives of the six adults involved, revealing the intricate web of secrets and lies that unravels over the course of one evening. The book is praised for its twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. With straight-from-life characters and knife-sharp insight, Truly Madly Guilty delves into the complexities of human relationships and the fear of what could have been. It's a riveting drama packed with suspense and secrets, making it a perfect summer read.

Reviews
Single White Female Writer · Single White Female Writer · 2018-04-04
disappointing 2.50

The book is criticized for its length and slow pacing. The build-up to the promised shocking event is considered too drawn out.

The reviewer finds the book to be overly long at 509 pages, which affects the pacing and character development. The slow build-up to the promised shocking event is a letdown, as it takes too long to get to the heart of the story. While the characters are interesting, the lengthy setup detracts from the overall enjoyment. The reviewer suggests that a tighter narrative could have made the book more impactful.

Quick quotes

    At 509 pages, the book is way too long.

    It takes too long to establish the characters.

    It takes too long to build up to the promised shocking event.

Goodreads · 2016-07-26
engaging 3.60

The book is praised for its shifting perspectives and character-driven narrative. The non-linear storytelling enhances the reading experience.

This novel stands out for its ability to switch between different timelines and character viewpoints, creating a rich and engaging narrative. The focus on character development makes it a compelling read. The reviewer appreciates the depth and complexity of the characters, which drive the story forward. The non-linear storytelling adds an extra layer of intrigue, keeping readers hooked until the very end.

Quick quotes

    I enjoyed the way it switched back and forth in time and from each different character's perspective.

    It was an extremely character-driven novel.

    The shifting perspectives and timelines added depth to the story.

The New York Times · The New York Times · 2016-07-21
compelling 3.00

The story is set on a smaller scale, focusing on a group of characters at a disastrous barbecue. The intimate setting adds to the tension and drama.

This novel unfolds on a smaller scale, centering around a group of characters at a disastrous barbecue. The intimate setting allows for a deeper exploration of the characters and their relationships, adding to the tension and drama. The reviewer appreciates the focus on a small group of people and how their interactions create a compelling narrative. The barbecue serves as a catalyst for the events that follow, making it a pivotal moment in the story.

Quick quotes

    Truly Madly Guilty unfolds on a much smaller scale.

    It's about the day of a terrible, terrible barbecue.

    The intimate setting adds to the tension and drama.

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