Good story but difficult to follow in audio version

This was an enjoyable listen and I'm glad I continued to the end.
However with the constant flitting between characters and years it was a little hard to follow the story. Whereas with a physical book you could flick back to check names and facts you obviously can't easily do that in audio.

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So many lies!

Is it my imagination, or does every other book these days have 'liar', 'lie' or 'lying' in the title? It seems to be the vogue in psychological thrillers at the moment, although I stress at the outset that this book does not really meet the criteria for this genre.
Nicholas Searle has crafted a very well-worked and cleverly presented storyline that falls wonderfully into the category of a good read. The author does little to disguise the hidden relationship between the characters and, to my mind, the book is all the better for that. I saw the light about half way through the novel and became intrigued to see how the protagonists would deal with the new reality.
The characters are well drawn and the pace is fast. Arrogance and pomposity are interwoven with cunning and humility, bringing all the personalities to life.
I attended a crime writers' evening where the aspect of books written for one or other of the sexes was discussed. When applied to this book, I consider it could be happily read and appreciated by either sex.
As to the narration, I felt that Martin Jarvis framed his approach to the narrative around the principal character and carried off that aspect really well. There were times, however, when I felt the carefully delivered, punctilious enunciation (I can imagine Roy saying that) grated on me somewhat, but it is a minor criticism in an otherwise faultless rendition.
The Good Liar is definitely on my short list when it comes to my turn for recommending a title for the Book Club

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Brilliant!!

Beautifully narrated and a story with so many twists. Each character held you with their part of the story. one of the audiobooks to enjoy over again.

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Brilliant

Fabulously written story jumping from present day to further and further in the past as the lies and secrets unravel. Brilliantly thought out and very satisfying ending.

Excellent performance from Martin Jarvis, breathing life into the story. Highly recommend.

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Clever, but lacks any human touch

Would you try another book written by Nicholas Searle or narrated by Martin Jarvis?

Wouldn't read anything more by this author. Contrived and superficial - and long-winded with it. He can write very suspensefully from time to time, but the central idea of this book is too thin.

Has The Good Liar put you off other books in this genre?

No.

Was The Good Liar worth the listening time?

No.

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17 people found this helpful

strong start and end

What made the experience of listening to The Good Liar the most enjoyable?

the characterisation and narration couldnt be faulted

What did you like best about this story?

clearly betty has more about her than meets the eye, it was good fun following roys machinations knowing he would get some come uppance in due course

Which character – as performed by Martin Jarvis – was your favourite?

Roy

Did you have an emotional reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

i didnt hate roy as much as I shouldve, he was after all unrelenting awful but often he just seemed sad

Any additional comments?

the midway flashback story when roy was working for a lord someone or other should just be cut out, adds nothing at all.

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16 people found this helpful

Brilliant

Loved this book, different concept and a great idea writing the book this way it made the story come alive bit by bit. Good characters and very good narrator.

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Wow

This book was a surprise from beginning to end. I listen to many audiobooks and until now do not rate or comment on them. This book is so exceptional and gripping from start to finish I recommend it to everyone. This is some debut novel.

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The Good Liar

Thoroughly enjoyable and thought provoking read. Excellently narrated. Great twist as the story progresses. Would definitely recommend.

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An Overlooked Gem

This is a well written war story told during certain times of a con mans life. It's slow, and ambles back through the years concluding with a final twist at the end. The characters are well written with depth and each plays a part in the story. All are brought to life by the marvellous Martin Jarvis.

It does require concentration but it's well worth it.

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