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Everyday Lies
Wife. Mother. Liar.
At first glance Emma and Lucie seem very different, but they share an unspeakable vice. Beautiful, wealthy Emma appears to have it all with a loving husband and a seemingly successful life, but a restless craving has driven her to foolish actions. Meanwhile, young widow Lucie is struggling to make ends meet while coping with a troubled five-year-old.
When the law catches up with them they soon discover what they have in common: they lie. A lot.
Punished with community service, Emma and Lucie form an intense friendship, finding an unlikely third ally in Florrie, a septuagenarian who offers wise words and a shoulder to cry on.
But the lies don’t stop. They are hiding their misdemeanours from their loved ones and neither want their shame to come to light. As these unhealthy relationships drive them towards destruction, can they survive the fallout from their deceptions or will their lies destroy everything they love the most?
Revised edition: This edition of Everyday Lies includes editorial revisions.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 27, 2017
2066 people are currently reading
862 people want to read
About the author
Louise Guy
34 books50 followersLouise Guy, bestselling author of six novels, blends family and friendship themes with unique twists and intrigue. Her characters captivate readers, drawing them deeply into their compelling stories and struggles. Previously published by Lake Union, she lives in Australia. Her latest book My Sister's Baby is published in 2024.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
August 25, 2020
Emma and her husband seemingly have everything. Daniel works hard, often away with his business while Emma is perfection by his side at executive meetings and dinners. But Emma is bored. Daniel doesn’t want her to work – they have plenty of money, a beautiful apartment in Brisbane – so she finds herself breaking the law to get the adrenalin rush it brings her.
Lucie and five-year-old Noah are struggling. Lucie’s husband Matt died three years previously so both Lucie and Noah are missing him badly. Lucie enjoys a glass (or more) of wine in the evenings to feel close to Matt, while Noah acts out, thrashing and yelling his anger and hurt. Matt’s parents are a lifeline for Lucie but Matt’s sister and brother-in-law are different.
When both Emma and Lucie come before the courts, community service at a retirement home for a few Saturdays is necessary. But Emma and Lucie both lie to their loved ones about what they’re doing and where they are on those Saturdays. Lies, lies and more lies. Along comes Florrie, bright, wise, full of mischief – and almost 80 years old. What would happen to these women who were strangers and now are not?
Everyday Lies is my first by Aussie author Louise Guy and won’t be my last. I thoroughly enjoyed this tangled web of lies, drama, uncertainty, sorrow and regret. I didn’t like Emma at first, and had similar feelings for Lucie – but by the time I was three quarters of the way through I was cheering them on as they fought to get their heads above water. Highly recommended.
Lucie and five-year-old Noah are struggling. Lucie’s husband Matt died three years previously so both Lucie and Noah are missing him badly. Lucie enjoys a glass (or more) of wine in the evenings to feel close to Matt, while Noah acts out, thrashing and yelling his anger and hurt. Matt’s parents are a lifeline for Lucie but Matt’s sister and brother-in-law are different.
When both Emma and Lucie come before the courts, community service at a retirement home for a few Saturdays is necessary. But Emma and Lucie both lie to their loved ones about what they’re doing and where they are on those Saturdays. Lies, lies and more lies. Along comes Florrie, bright, wise, full of mischief – and almost 80 years old. What would happen to these women who were strangers and now are not?
Everyday Lies is my first by Aussie author Louise Guy and won’t be my last. I thoroughly enjoyed this tangled web of lies, drama, uncertainty, sorrow and regret. I didn’t like Emma at first, and had similar feelings for Lucie – but by the time I was three quarters of the way through I was cheering them on as they fought to get their heads above water. Highly recommended.
June 9, 2017
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
Lies. Big lies or little lies – they are a normal part of our lives, affecting the relationships we have with our friends, family and with ourselves. Louise Guy, a fresh voice in Australian women’s fiction, brings us Everyday Lies, a powerful story about three women and the web of lies they weave into their everyday lives.
Louise Guy places two very different main protagonists at the head of her first venture into Australian women’s fiction, or a genre better known as ‘life lit’. Emma Wilson is our first protagonist. Emma is a trophy wife, who seems to have the world at her feet. However, Emma’s boredom and lack of satisfaction in her life has resulted in a criminal misdemeanour. This also follows a string of lies she has told her husband, family and acquaintances to save her appearance. The second main protagonist to fill the pages of Guy’s addictive book, is Lucie Andrews, a widowed mother, with an unruly five year old son to care for. Lucie has been struggling financially and emotionally since her husband passed away, which is understandable. What is not as understandable are the lies that Lucie has spun to cover her recent behaviour. These involve both some inattentive driving episodes and a daily overindulgence on wine. Things come to a head for both women when the secrets they hoped would stay buried, come to the surface. Emma and Lucie are both forced to confront their lies and pay for their mistakes. It comes as a blessing in disguise, as this unusual situation breeds a friendship between these two very different women. This life changing situation also introduces Emma and Lucie to a feisty 79 year old lady Florrie, a woman Lucie and Emma never realised they needed in their lives until now.
There are plenty of positive reviews for Everyday Lies, from a combination of readers, fellow reviewers and talented Australian authors I admire. I have to concur with all of their endorsements of Everyday Lies, it is a truly is a fantastic read. Louise Guy has certainly made a splash on the Australian women writers circuit, with this compelling addition to the domestic fiction genre.
Lies are a part of human nature, whether we like it or not. Guy tackles this very normal aspect of our lives and transforms it into a highly readable novel. Everyday Lies tackles the little white lies we might use from time to time to embellish our lives within the narrative. Guy also puts the spotlight on the lies we tell ourselves. She adeptly shows us, through the journey each character in the novel takes, just how hard these types of lies are hard to confront. Often we spin these lies to avoid confronting an issue head on, or we continue to exist within a life surrounded by lies, as it simply is far easier. Either way, I was extremely pleased with the way Guy handled the main theme of her novel.
In addition to lies, there are a number of other subject matters that are touched on in Everyday Lies. Lucie’s story enables us to learn about much more about how grief touches our lives. It also gives us an understanding of how vulnerable the bereaved are to situations or people who are unhealthy for their healing process. Lucie’s dependence on alcohol to drown out her problems, gives Guy room to explore alcoholism and dangerous driving. Through Lucie’s relationship with her son, we also have a storyline that focuses on troubled child/adult relationships. All these were handled with direct insight, as well as emotional sensitivity.
Emma’s story is a little different to Lucie’s, but her part in the novel brings some other interesting subject matters into play. Emma’s character allows Guy to look critically at the perfect wife/perfect life construction and the fallout from Emma’s shopping addiction. Family is also an important thread that runs through Emma’s story, as we learn early on in the novel that Emma and her husband have been estranged from their families. When Florrie enters Emma and Lucie’s lives, Guy offers up an introspective look at the power of friendship, ageing, loneliness and the treatment of our elderly. What is overwhelmingly clear from all three of these main players in Everyday Lies, is that their stories, as well as their characteristics, are painted with a strong brush of realism.
The action of Everyday Lies is set in Queensland, with the novel moving seamlessly between life in the city, to the tranquil surrounds of Rainbow Bay. I really liked the depiction of Rainbow Bay. Guy’s descriptions of this region are very vivid and give the reader a good sense of place. I also enjoyed the focus on the revitalisation of Rainbow Bay. It reminded me of my own coastal home town in Western Australia, which definitely needs a facelift, similar to the one Rainbow Bay receives in Everyday Lies.
Everyday Lies was a novel I just couldn’t put down. The book was paced perfectly and I was completely hooked on Everyday Lies from the very start. Likewise, I found the structure of the novel ideal. I was pleased that Guy chose to organise the book around the alternating chapter voices of Emma and Lucie, with a final chapter devoted to Florrie. It was a technical decision that definitely drew me further into this novel. When I finished Everyday Lies, I continued to think about the characters, who all seemed get under my skin and work their way into my heart. If I think about a book long after I have closed the last page, I always believe it is a sign that it is a book that resonated with me and it should with all readers. Therefore, Everyday Lies receives a five star endorsement from me. Louise Guy definitely has a bright future ahead of her in the Australian women’s fiction field and I am very keen to hear more from her in the future.
*Please note I received a complimentary copy of this novel via a giveaway.
Lies. Big lies or little lies – they are a normal part of our lives, affecting the relationships we have with our friends, family and with ourselves. Louise Guy, a fresh voice in Australian women’s fiction, brings us Everyday Lies, a powerful story about three women and the web of lies they weave into their everyday lives.
Louise Guy places two very different main protagonists at the head of her first venture into Australian women’s fiction, or a genre better known as ‘life lit’. Emma Wilson is our first protagonist. Emma is a trophy wife, who seems to have the world at her feet. However, Emma’s boredom and lack of satisfaction in her life has resulted in a criminal misdemeanour. This also follows a string of lies she has told her husband, family and acquaintances to save her appearance. The second main protagonist to fill the pages of Guy’s addictive book, is Lucie Andrews, a widowed mother, with an unruly five year old son to care for. Lucie has been struggling financially and emotionally since her husband passed away, which is understandable. What is not as understandable are the lies that Lucie has spun to cover her recent behaviour. These involve both some inattentive driving episodes and a daily overindulgence on wine. Things come to a head for both women when the secrets they hoped would stay buried, come to the surface. Emma and Lucie are both forced to confront their lies and pay for their mistakes. It comes as a blessing in disguise, as this unusual situation breeds a friendship between these two very different women. This life changing situation also introduces Emma and Lucie to a feisty 79 year old lady Florrie, a woman Lucie and Emma never realised they needed in their lives until now.
There are plenty of positive reviews for Everyday Lies, from a combination of readers, fellow reviewers and talented Australian authors I admire. I have to concur with all of their endorsements of Everyday Lies, it is a truly is a fantastic read. Louise Guy has certainly made a splash on the Australian women writers circuit, with this compelling addition to the domestic fiction genre.
Lies are a part of human nature, whether we like it or not. Guy tackles this very normal aspect of our lives and transforms it into a highly readable novel. Everyday Lies tackles the little white lies we might use from time to time to embellish our lives within the narrative. Guy also puts the spotlight on the lies we tell ourselves. She adeptly shows us, through the journey each character in the novel takes, just how hard these types of lies are hard to confront. Often we spin these lies to avoid confronting an issue head on, or we continue to exist within a life surrounded by lies, as it simply is far easier. Either way, I was extremely pleased with the way Guy handled the main theme of her novel.
In addition to lies, there are a number of other subject matters that are touched on in Everyday Lies. Lucie’s story enables us to learn about much more about how grief touches our lives. It also gives us an understanding of how vulnerable the bereaved are to situations or people who are unhealthy for their healing process. Lucie’s dependence on alcohol to drown out her problems, gives Guy room to explore alcoholism and dangerous driving. Through Lucie’s relationship with her son, we also have a storyline that focuses on troubled child/adult relationships. All these were handled with direct insight, as well as emotional sensitivity.
Emma’s story is a little different to Lucie’s, but her part in the novel brings some other interesting subject matters into play. Emma’s character allows Guy to look critically at the perfect wife/perfect life construction and the fallout from Emma’s shopping addiction. Family is also an important thread that runs through Emma’s story, as we learn early on in the novel that Emma and her husband have been estranged from their families. When Florrie enters Emma and Lucie’s lives, Guy offers up an introspective look at the power of friendship, ageing, loneliness and the treatment of our elderly. What is overwhelmingly clear from all three of these main players in Everyday Lies, is that their stories, as well as their characteristics, are painted with a strong brush of realism.
The action of Everyday Lies is set in Queensland, with the novel moving seamlessly between life in the city, to the tranquil surrounds of Rainbow Bay. I really liked the depiction of Rainbow Bay. Guy’s descriptions of this region are very vivid and give the reader a good sense of place. I also enjoyed the focus on the revitalisation of Rainbow Bay. It reminded me of my own coastal home town in Western Australia, which definitely needs a facelift, similar to the one Rainbow Bay receives in Everyday Lies.
Everyday Lies was a novel I just couldn’t put down. The book was paced perfectly and I was completely hooked on Everyday Lies from the very start. Likewise, I found the structure of the novel ideal. I was pleased that Guy chose to organise the book around the alternating chapter voices of Emma and Lucie, with a final chapter devoted to Florrie. It was a technical decision that definitely drew me further into this novel. When I finished Everyday Lies, I continued to think about the characters, who all seemed get under my skin and work their way into my heart. If I think about a book long after I have closed the last page, I always believe it is a sign that it is a book that resonated with me and it should with all readers. Therefore, Everyday Lies receives a five star endorsement from me. Louise Guy definitely has a bright future ahead of her in the Australian women’s fiction field and I am very keen to hear more from her in the future.
*Please note I received a complimentary copy of this novel via a giveaway.
June 3, 2018
Everyday Lies is a story about people starting out with small lies which then grow and have enormous consequences. The book is written in alternate points of view of Lucie, a single mother with a small son, and Emma who seems to have everything except what she wants the most.
I enjoyed it on a certain suspended belief level as an interesting story, but on another level it was all a bit too sweet and easy. In the end both women give up what are actually serious addictions much too easily and everyone walks off into the sunset. A bit too simple but it passed several hours on an aeroplane quite pleasantly.
I enjoyed it on a certain suspended belief level as an interesting story, but on another level it was all a bit too sweet and easy. In the end both women give up what are actually serious addictions much too easily and everyone walks off into the sunset. A bit too simple but it passed several hours on an aeroplane quite pleasantly.
March 24, 2024
Setting: Brisbane & 'Golden Bay', Queensland, Australia; modern day.
This was an intriguing family drama about three women who unexpectedly meet as a result of the Community Service program and, in doing so, change each other's lives.
Emma apparently has everything: ambitious husband Daniel is a successful entrepreneur, she has an expensive car and house and doesn't need to worry about what she spends. Yet she feels unfulfilled - Daniel doesn't want her to work and seems ambivalent about having children - and ends up shoplifting. But then she is caught in the act and, despite preferring to pay a fine, is sentenced to Community Service...
Lucie is a single mother with a five-year-old son, Noah - she works as a teaching assistant in her son's school but is still mourning her dead husband, Matt, and seeks solace in Matt's beloved wine stocks. At the same time, Noah is 'acting out' and Lucie finds it increasingly hard to deal with his aggression - which indirectly leads her to a speeding conviction for which she has to take the option of Community Service as she cannot afford to pay the fine....
When Emma and Lucie attend their first session, they meet elderly Florrie, who has many tales to tell and much wisdom to impart to these two damaged women. Together, the three forge a unique bond....
A highly enjoyable read, not the first I have read by this author and certainly won't be the last. Good characterisation and decent storylines made this an easy four-star read - 8.5/10.
This was an intriguing family drama about three women who unexpectedly meet as a result of the Community Service program and, in doing so, change each other's lives.
Emma apparently has everything: ambitious husband Daniel is a successful entrepreneur, she has an expensive car and house and doesn't need to worry about what she spends. Yet she feels unfulfilled - Daniel doesn't want her to work and seems ambivalent about having children - and ends up shoplifting. But then she is caught in the act and, despite preferring to pay a fine, is sentenced to Community Service...
Lucie is a single mother with a five-year-old son, Noah - she works as a teaching assistant in her son's school but is still mourning her dead husband, Matt, and seeks solace in Matt's beloved wine stocks. At the same time, Noah is 'acting out' and Lucie finds it increasingly hard to deal with his aggression - which indirectly leads her to a speeding conviction for which she has to take the option of Community Service as she cannot afford to pay the fine....
When Emma and Lucie attend their first session, they meet elderly Florrie, who has many tales to tell and much wisdom to impart to these two damaged women. Together, the three forge a unique bond....
A highly enjoyable read, not the first I have read by this author and certainly won't be the last. Good characterisation and decent storylines made this an easy four-star read - 8.5/10.
March 5, 2018
I really enjoyed the intertwined stories of Emma, Lucie and Florrie.
The book covers many themes such as illness, alcoholism, grief, abuse and loneliness. This isn’t my normal reading genre (contemporary woman’s fiction), but it was well written and a timely read for me considering one of the themes.
I especially liked the Australian setting.
3.5*, it would have been a 4 if not for the twee, fairytale ending.
The book covers many themes such as illness, alcoholism, grief, abuse and loneliness. This isn’t my normal reading genre (contemporary woman’s fiction), but it was well written and a timely read for me considering one of the themes.
I especially liked the Australian setting.
3.5*, it would have been a 4 if not for the twee, fairytale ending.
May 30, 2017
Louise Guy has done a terrifc job bringing the threads of Everydays Lies together to make it a very satisfying read. She's hit on a topic that is trending right now (domestic situations where the characters are far from perfect) and included a thread very familiar with me. (I was a Loss Prevention Officer in a former life! And I encountered such situations.) The characters in this story are also not stereotypes. At one point I thought, 'ah, yes, here come the nice guy'. WRONG! He was not so nice (I wanted to give him a swift kick a few times) and then there was the guy who started ut nice and... Well, you read for yourself. One thing I do know for sure after getting to know Noah, is why I never had children! The dual story threads come together and Louise created characters to love and characters who stirred other emotions in me. And that is always a sign of good read.
September 22, 2021
A fun and undemanding story of friendship and family. The characters are well developed and likable. A reminder that the truth hurts for a little while but lies hurt forever.
June 12, 2017
I really enjoyed this book of two characters leading very different lives. The way in which their lives intersect I found to be original and a fun twist.
It was Emma's storyline that I liked most. Hers was a simpler story for me, whereas Lucie's story had more of a train-wreck feel to it. I can identify with the single mum persona, doing her best to be 'Mum' and 'Dad' to her boy, having financial troubles and trying to keep everything together, whilst hanging out for 'wine o'clock'.
Florrie's character was a light-hearted addition, helping ensure the story didn't get bleak.
Something else I enjoyed here was the acknowledgement that new friendships and relationships can be formed out of the blue, sometimes when we least expect them - and these friendships can have the strength of those bonds we have with friends we've known forever.
I'd like to make mention of the editing in this one. A really top job!
It was Emma's storyline that I liked most. Hers was a simpler story for me, whereas Lucie's story had more of a train-wreck feel to it. I can identify with the single mum persona, doing her best to be 'Mum' and 'Dad' to her boy, having financial troubles and trying to keep everything together, whilst hanging out for 'wine o'clock'.
Florrie's character was a light-hearted addition, helping ensure the story didn't get bleak.
Something else I enjoyed here was the acknowledgement that new friendships and relationships can be formed out of the blue, sometimes when we least expect them - and these friendships can have the strength of those bonds we have with friends we've known forever.
I'd like to make mention of the editing in this one. A really top job!
September 16, 2020
Emma and Lucie both has secrets.
They both end up meeting as they commit a crime and has to do community service.
I never really connected with these two ladies.
One lady a single mother with a bad 5 year old.
The other lady married with a husband that pulled her to disconnect from her family.
Just blah nothing amazing with this story.
They both end up meeting as they commit a crime and has to do community service.
I never really connected with these two ladies.
One lady a single mother with a bad 5 year old.
The other lady married with a husband that pulled her to disconnect from her family.
Just blah nothing amazing with this story.
May 5, 2017
A great debut women's fiction novel from Louise Guy. Everyday Lies is an excellent read which takes us into the lives of Emma and Lucie, two women who not only lie to their friends and families, but to themselves. They are unexpectedly thrown together when the house of cards they have built tumbles, and they find themselves paying a penalty they did not anticipate. With excellent characters who the reader will find easy to relate to and a compelling storyline, this is one women's fiction readers shouldn't miss.
February 19, 2020
Awesome on audio
I've had this book on my to-read list since out first came out but I'm glad I waited for the audio edition. The narrator is an excellent voice actor and was able to capture the essence of each character.
The story kept me engaged and second-guessing my opinions of some of the characters. I loved how it all came together at the end and I can't wait to pick up another book by this author.
I've had this book on my to-read list since out first came out but I'm glad I waited for the audio edition. The narrator is an excellent voice actor and was able to capture the essence of each character.
The story kept me engaged and second-guessing my opinions of some of the characters. I loved how it all came together at the end and I can't wait to pick up another book by this author.
October 3, 2020
A fantastic and realistic read
I loved this book. So many important issues raised and how little white lies don't always stay little. Such a easy read and I thought the characters were well developed ☺
I loved this book. So many important issues raised and how little white lies don't always stay little. Such a easy read and I thought the characters were well developed ☺
May 2, 2022
2.75/5 ⭐️
I got super bored with this after like 30%
I got super bored with this after like 30%
February 13, 2020
All lies have consequences - if you get found out!
Three women of different ages from all walks of life, meet as they carry out community service. As they meet regularly, they get to know each other better and the tentacles of friendship begin to unfurl, and we get the inside track on why each of them are there.
This is the story of having to face your fears - and a very good one it is too. I really enjoy books with several different lives entwined and this is that little bit different, and rather enthralling for a debut novel. A beautifully created tale, well written with not one but three main characters, all with very different lives but what ties them together is that they all have lied. Most of us chance our luck from time to time, but these three have the misfortune of getting caught out and having to face the consequences. A fascinating read which kept my attention all the way through, and is most definitely worth four stars.
Three women of different ages from all walks of life, meet as they carry out community service. As they meet regularly, they get to know each other better and the tentacles of friendship begin to unfurl, and we get the inside track on why each of them are there.
This is the story of having to face your fears - and a very good one it is too. I really enjoy books with several different lives entwined and this is that little bit different, and rather enthralling for a debut novel. A beautifully created tale, well written with not one but three main characters, all with very different lives but what ties them together is that they all have lied. Most of us chance our luck from time to time, but these three have the misfortune of getting caught out and having to face the consequences. A fascinating read which kept my attention all the way through, and is most definitely worth four stars.
April 28, 2017
Often it's the lies we tell ourselves that cause the most damage - that is the theme overarching this fresh new fiction from Sunshine Coast writer Louise Guy. After mastering pace and plot with her successful children's series, it was great to see this fresh new Aussie author tackle adult fiction.
I love this writer's humor and clean prose, a great example of what I think fits within domestic noir - a fast growing genre that uncovers life is not always as it seems behind the white picket fence.
Rich with emotion and realism, we witness the emerging friendship of two polar-opposites, real-life thirty-something women with struggles we all can relate to (parenting, partnerships, ageing parents), and a few extra ones for good measure.
Highly recommend!
I love this writer's humor and clean prose, a great example of what I think fits within domestic noir - a fast growing genre that uncovers life is not always as it seems behind the white picket fence.
Rich with emotion and realism, we witness the emerging friendship of two polar-opposites, real-life thirty-something women with struggles we all can relate to (parenting, partnerships, ageing parents), and a few extra ones for good measure.
Highly recommend!
March 9, 2018
I really enjoyed this book! The characters were very authentic with problems that were realistic, which made it a refreshing read. Louise Guy has woven the stories well, alternating chapters for each character. At the end of each chapter I was tempted to skip ahead and see what was going to happen, which is not normally something I do!
The everyday struggles of the two main characters was a refreshing read in as much as they weren't idealised representations of fabulously wealthy-mega successful career women. I think that Women's Fiction has evolved in recent years from the original story form of divorced or cheated upon women. The genre now encapsulates the struggles of ordinary women, which is something I can definitely relate to!
I look forward to reading other Louise Guy novels!
The everyday struggles of the two main characters was a refreshing read in as much as they weren't idealised representations of fabulously wealthy-mega successful career women. I think that Women's Fiction has evolved in recent years from the original story form of divorced or cheated upon women. The genre now encapsulates the struggles of ordinary women, which is something I can definitely relate to!
I look forward to reading other Louise Guy novels!
September 28, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. This was a great book. I loved how the author told the story of these two women. Definitely a must read.
December 27, 2017
I really enjoyed the Aussie setting and felt like I was there. A feel-good, warmhearted story that's perfect for summer reading. And love that cover!
January 17, 2023
I honestly don’t remember much about this book so for that reason I going to give it 2 stars. 🥱
December 10, 2017
2.5 ! This book received heaps of fantastic reviews which was why I was encouraged to read it .
There was nothing really wrong with this book it was all just a bit blah ! And the " all wrapped up in a big bow "ending was a little corny for me.
There was nothing really wrong with this book it was all just a bit blah ! And the " all wrapped up in a big bow "ending was a little corny for me.
June 1, 2017
Louise Guy's foray into women's fiction, Everyday Lies, is a brilliant and compelling read that highlights Guy's superb storytelling abilities.
Tackling the notion that there are consequences regardless of sometimes too easily accepting the lies we tell ourselves (and others) was never going to be an easy feat yet Guy presented this aspect of the story seamlessly. The characters were relatable and you could certainly empathise with them both and their respective situations. The addition of Florrie was quite brilliant really, it added an extra level of balance to the story and she brought a level of wisdom that sometimes we all need and crave. I came to think of Florrie as the wise, caring, but no-nonsense grandma we all deserve.
A sincere congratulations to Guy on her debut women's fiction novel.
Tackling the notion that there are consequences regardless of sometimes too easily accepting the lies we tell ourselves (and others) was never going to be an easy feat yet Guy presented this aspect of the story seamlessly. The characters were relatable and you could certainly empathise with them both and their respective situations. The addition of Florrie was quite brilliant really, it added an extra level of balance to the story and she brought a level of wisdom that sometimes we all need and crave. I came to think of Florrie as the wise, caring, but no-nonsense grandma we all deserve.
A sincere congratulations to Guy on her debut women's fiction novel.
January 24, 2021
If you like the Hallmark Channel, you might like this book. The first two pages had me intrigued. But after that, there were no surprises. Everything was totally and unimaginatively predictable. If that’s your thing, then go for it. Just not my thing.
October 13, 2017
Story of friendship that just didn't quite work for me, but plenty of other readers seem to like it.
August 23, 2020
Everyday Lies is an extremely well constructed novel, with stories alternating between two main protagonists, Emma and Lucie, for each of the chapters until the last, where there is a 'round up' of events six months later with Florrie as the main protagonist. The lies people tell is an important theme in this novel: firstly the two main protagonists' lies about their behaviour and its consequences; then Florrie's lies about her situation when she meets Emma and Lucie; the lies told by various of Emma and Lucie's family members; and those that feed small town gossip. Tied closely to the 'everyday lies' is the second theme: death and grieving. Emma's husband, Daniel, continues to dwell on his mother's death and associated events: Lucie and her small son, Noah, have suffered the death of Matt, husband and father, their grief unresolved and unabated.
Queensland settings, Brisbane and Golden Bay, evoke the wonderful Australian environment: landscape, weather, flora and fauna. The unique Queenslander architecture gets a mention, amongst the shininess of less traditional housing and business premises, old and new. Universal secondary characters are as familiar in this setting as in anywhere else in the world. The 'trophy' wife and overbearing wealthy husband; the small town gossip; teachers balancing their concerns for the children in their care and parents' sensitivities; married couples dealing with infidelity, differing aspirations, illness and past promises that impact negatively on current relationships.
The crutches Emma and Lucie use to help them deal with their imperfect lives bring them together with Florrie, an elderly woman of spirit and humour. They are from very different backgrounds, but while thrown together through circumstance, are drawn together through each woman's capacity to move beyond her own concerns to those of the others. By the end of the novel the three women have formed a strong friendship; have begin to resolve their problems; and have moved well beyond the factors that brought them together.
Family relationships bring another level of complexity to the novel. They are fraught, and well drawn on the whole. The poor relationships between Emma and Daniel and their families in Golden Bay reflect the importance of distance, emotional and physical, in creating misunderstandings. In Lucie's case, what appears to be a positive solution to her loneliness and desire for Noah to have an extended family after Matt's death is shown to be extremely fragile under pressure. The relationship between Lucie and Noah is extremely well drawn, with Lucie's frustrations rising as Noah's feet bang the back of her seat, her knees, her legs...
Although I was happy to give this novel a solid three stars I was aware of what I saw as flaws and was unable to react with the enthusiasm of some other reviewers. The men in the novel, apart from Emma's father, seem quite insensitive. Until late in the novel Daniel seems to see Emma as a trophy wife with a clearly marked out subordinate role in the marriage - that of support person rather than a woman whose desire for a career and child is valid. Emma's burgeoning friendship with another man in Golden Bay is marred by his rather crass and mischief making behaviour. Lucie's financial situation is a result of Matt's lack of financial acumen and her desire to give her child some male companionship is rewarded with brutality. Although a secondary woman character clearly states that the latter behaviour is abhorrent, there seems to be an acceptance of questionable masculine behaviour.
To return to the positives, the ending tied up all the ends really neatly and rather than being too pat, deftly brought together a resolution that had been worked towards through the story lines and characterisation. Everyday Lies was a pleasant read, with interesting women characters whose continuing relationship from a somewhat unique chance meeting fits well into writing about the strength and importance of women's friendships.
Queensland settings, Brisbane and Golden Bay, evoke the wonderful Australian environment: landscape, weather, flora and fauna. The unique Queenslander architecture gets a mention, amongst the shininess of less traditional housing and business premises, old and new. Universal secondary characters are as familiar in this setting as in anywhere else in the world. The 'trophy' wife and overbearing wealthy husband; the small town gossip; teachers balancing their concerns for the children in their care and parents' sensitivities; married couples dealing with infidelity, differing aspirations, illness and past promises that impact negatively on current relationships.
The crutches Emma and Lucie use to help them deal with their imperfect lives bring them together with Florrie, an elderly woman of spirit and humour. They are from very different backgrounds, but while thrown together through circumstance, are drawn together through each woman's capacity to move beyond her own concerns to those of the others. By the end of the novel the three women have formed a strong friendship; have begin to resolve their problems; and have moved well beyond the factors that brought them together.
Family relationships bring another level of complexity to the novel. They are fraught, and well drawn on the whole. The poor relationships between Emma and Daniel and their families in Golden Bay reflect the importance of distance, emotional and physical, in creating misunderstandings. In Lucie's case, what appears to be a positive solution to her loneliness and desire for Noah to have an extended family after Matt's death is shown to be extremely fragile under pressure. The relationship between Lucie and Noah is extremely well drawn, with Lucie's frustrations rising as Noah's feet bang the back of her seat, her knees, her legs...
Although I was happy to give this novel a solid three stars I was aware of what I saw as flaws and was unable to react with the enthusiasm of some other reviewers. The men in the novel, apart from Emma's father, seem quite insensitive. Until late in the novel Daniel seems to see Emma as a trophy wife with a clearly marked out subordinate role in the marriage - that of support person rather than a woman whose desire for a career and child is valid. Emma's burgeoning friendship with another man in Golden Bay is marred by his rather crass and mischief making behaviour. Lucie's financial situation is a result of Matt's lack of financial acumen and her desire to give her child some male companionship is rewarded with brutality. Although a secondary woman character clearly states that the latter behaviour is abhorrent, there seems to be an acceptance of questionable masculine behaviour.
To return to the positives, the ending tied up all the ends really neatly and rather than being too pat, deftly brought together a resolution that had been worked towards through the story lines and characterisation. Everyday Lies was a pleasant read, with interesting women characters whose continuing relationship from a somewhat unique chance meeting fits well into writing about the strength and importance of women's friendships.
August 10, 2023
Louise Guy does it again with Everyday Lies! She creates strong female leads and depicts a fantastic storyline about friendship, love, and personal growth.
What I liked about Everyday Lies:
Everyday Lies was a captivating read for me, thanks in large part to its strong female leads. I found myself drawn to Emma, as her struggles mirrored my own, particularly regarding her complex family dynamics. I sympathized with Lucie and her son, and I was rooting for her to find happiness after the loss of her husband. Florrie was fantastic and entertaining. She was a wise and compassionate character who offered the other women much-needed support.
This novel intertwines themes of friendship, love, and personal growth. The three women meet under unlikely circumstances, but they quickly bond over their experiences. They offer each other support and advice, and they help each other to overcome their challenges. Ultimately, they become close friends who are there for each other.
Louise Guy does a great job interlacing the dual story threads together and skillfully addresses relatable issues, making her storytelling resonate with a wide audience. She creates three complex and relatable characters, and she tells their stories in a way that is both suspenseful and heartwarming. The three women's stories allow readers to get to know each of them on a deeper level. We see how their lives intersect in unexpected ways, and how they ultimately help each other to grow and change.
What I disliked about Everyday Lies:
There wasn't anything that I disliked about Everyday Lies.
What I think would have made Everyday Lies better:
After reading Her Last Hope, I was expecting a shocking twist or some suspense. While the storyline of Everyday Lies was well-written and enjoyable, I felt that it could have benefited from a surprise element. A shocking twist or suspenseful moment could have added an extra layer to the story and made it more memorable.
Would I recommend Everyday Lies by Louise Guy:
Overall, I think Everyday Lies is a well-written and heartwarming novel that explores some important themes in a relatable way. I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys strong female leads or stories about friendship and love.
****
In Everyday Lies, readers follow the lives of three women who are all struggling with their own secrets and lies. Emma appears to have it all: a loving husband and a seemingly successful life, but behind closed doors, she is restless and unfulfilled, and her craving for excitement has led her to make some foolish choices. Lucie is a young widow who is struggling to make ends meet while raising her troubled five-year-old son. She is overwhelmed by grief and guilt and often feels like she is drowning. Florrie is a wise and kind septuagenarian who offers Emma and Lucie a shoulder to cry on and a listening ear. The three women meet under unique circumstances, but they quickly form a special bond and become close friends.
As they share their stories with each other, Emma, Lucie, and Florrie realize that they are not alone in their struggles. They all have secrets that they are afraid to share, and they all feel like they are living a lie. But through their friendship, they begin to heal and find the strength to face their challenges.
What I liked about Everyday Lies:
Everyday Lies was a captivating read for me, thanks in large part to its strong female leads. I found myself drawn to Emma, as her struggles mirrored my own, particularly regarding her complex family dynamics. I sympathized with Lucie and her son, and I was rooting for her to find happiness after the loss of her husband. Florrie was fantastic and entertaining. She was a wise and compassionate character who offered the other women much-needed support.
This novel intertwines themes of friendship, love, and personal growth. The three women meet under unlikely circumstances, but they quickly bond over their experiences. They offer each other support and advice, and they help each other to overcome their challenges. Ultimately, they become close friends who are there for each other.
Louise Guy does a great job interlacing the dual story threads together and skillfully addresses relatable issues, making her storytelling resonate with a wide audience. She creates three complex and relatable characters, and she tells their stories in a way that is both suspenseful and heartwarming. The three women's stories allow readers to get to know each of them on a deeper level. We see how their lives intersect in unexpected ways, and how they ultimately help each other to grow and change.
What I disliked about Everyday Lies:
There wasn't anything that I disliked about Everyday Lies.
What I think would have made Everyday Lies better:
After reading Her Last Hope, I was expecting a shocking twist or some suspense. While the storyline of Everyday Lies was well-written and enjoyable, I felt that it could have benefited from a surprise element. A shocking twist or suspenseful moment could have added an extra layer to the story and made it more memorable.
Would I recommend Everyday Lies by Louise Guy:
Overall, I think Everyday Lies is a well-written and heartwarming novel that explores some important themes in a relatable way. I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys strong female leads or stories about friendship and love.
****
In Everyday Lies, readers follow the lives of three women who are all struggling with their own secrets and lies. Emma appears to have it all: a loving husband and a seemingly successful life, but behind closed doors, she is restless and unfulfilled, and her craving for excitement has led her to make some foolish choices. Lucie is a young widow who is struggling to make ends meet while raising her troubled five-year-old son. She is overwhelmed by grief and guilt and often feels like she is drowning. Florrie is a wise and kind septuagenarian who offers Emma and Lucie a shoulder to cry on and a listening ear. The three women meet under unique circumstances, but they quickly form a special bond and become close friends.
As they share their stories with each other, Emma, Lucie, and Florrie realize that they are not alone in their struggles. They all have secrets that they are afraid to share, and they all feel like they are living a lie. But through their friendship, they begin to heal and find the strength to face their challenges.
May 4, 2017
When I received an advance copy of Everyday Lies to review I was pleased to see Louise Guy had switched from very successful children’s author to women’s contemporary fiction. And she has done it very well. This book grabs the reader’s interest from page one and the story continues to flow smoothly through the lives and problems of the two main characters, both of whom are hiding a secret which could ruin their lives.
I found myself warming easily to the characters. Emma, the trophy wife, feels life has more to offer. Despite having a financially successful husband, her charity work and the ‘plastic’ friends she is surrounded by, leaves her feeling discontented. Finding a way to add excitement to her days threatens to bring her life undone if it is discovered.
Lucie, widowed and financially struggling, is trying her best to raise an unruly five year old. The constant battles with him and Lucie’s fragile emotions, lead her to an impulsive and reckless encounter which ultimately threatens the extended family relationship she depends on for support.
Both have to embark on a life dependent on ‘everyday lies’ to keep their secret. Eventually unexpected circumstances bring the two women together and they form a close friendship despite their vastly different lifestyles. Here the introduction of a third character, Florrie, adds a good balance to the story.
Easy to read, the story keeps moving well and the supporting characters are well rounded out and believable. They belong together. The reader can understand and sympathise with the human failings that prompted these two women to take a road they regret and subsequently try to cover up.
With her first book, Louise has joined the ranks of Australian women writers who produce good contemporary fiction. I’m looking forward to the next book.
I found myself warming easily to the characters. Emma, the trophy wife, feels life has more to offer. Despite having a financially successful husband, her charity work and the ‘plastic’ friends she is surrounded by, leaves her feeling discontented. Finding a way to add excitement to her days threatens to bring her life undone if it is discovered.
Lucie, widowed and financially struggling, is trying her best to raise an unruly five year old. The constant battles with him and Lucie’s fragile emotions, lead her to an impulsive and reckless encounter which ultimately threatens the extended family relationship she depends on for support.
Both have to embark on a life dependent on ‘everyday lies’ to keep their secret. Eventually unexpected circumstances bring the two women together and they form a close friendship despite their vastly different lifestyles. Here the introduction of a third character, Florrie, adds a good balance to the story.
Easy to read, the story keeps moving well and the supporting characters are well rounded out and believable. They belong together. The reader can understand and sympathise with the human failings that prompted these two women to take a road they regret and subsequently try to cover up.
With her first book, Louise has joined the ranks of Australian women writers who produce good contemporary fiction. I’m looking forward to the next book.
June 13, 2021
Another easy and engaging read by Louise Guy
Another great book by this author and similarly full of various characters and storylines but all easy and enjoyable to follow.
An unlikely friendship between three women with very different lives who meet doing community service - one for a speeding ticket she couldn’t pay as a young widow, another for shoplifting despite having plenty of money but other issues, and the other for other reasons that are later revealed. Mix in secrets past and present, relationships soured and started, three very likable women and a good mix of mostly good people with a few that are less so, and it’s a nice balance for a light enough read that also touches on heavier topics around grief, alcohol, men behaving inappropriately or worse towards women, and generally being at one’s wit’s end. Still, it manages to stay light and focused on how things change for the women is heartwarming that they have one another.
I could’ve done with far less of knowing how very often a particular couple has sex and cringed a bit because I just don’t really need to hear about someone’s hand down someone’s pants when it’s not really a romance novel, but OK. There are some things that are a bit unrealistic, but some suspension of disbelief is rewarded with a nice story that is easy to read, holds interest, and wraps up in a satisfying way.
The narration was as excellent as it’s been with the other books I’ve read by the same author.
Another great book by this author and similarly full of various characters and storylines but all easy and enjoyable to follow.
An unlikely friendship between three women with very different lives who meet doing community service - one for a speeding ticket she couldn’t pay as a young widow, another for shoplifting despite having plenty of money but other issues, and the other for other reasons that are later revealed. Mix in secrets past and present, relationships soured and started, three very likable women and a good mix of mostly good people with a few that are less so, and it’s a nice balance for a light enough read that also touches on heavier topics around grief, alcohol, men behaving inappropriately or worse towards women, and generally being at one’s wit’s end. Still, it manages to stay light and focused on how things change for the women is heartwarming that they have one another.
I could’ve done with far less of knowing how very often a particular couple has sex and cringed a bit because I just don’t really need to hear about someone’s hand down someone’s pants when it’s not really a romance novel, but OK. There are some things that are a bit unrealistic, but some suspension of disbelief is rewarded with a nice story that is easy to read, holds interest, and wraps up in a satisfying way.
The narration was as excellent as it’s been with the other books I’ve read by the same author.
September 20, 2020
Lie - a false statement made with deliberate intent to deceive.
Emma and Lucie are very different but they both use lies to cheat the truth.
Wealthy Emma has it all.
A loving husband and lots of money but she is bored and to add excitement to her life she has a secret desire.
Widow Lucie is struggling to survive.
Her five year old is combative and she has very little to pay the bills and put food on the table.
When the law punishes them with community service they discover they have a lot in common including lies.
Forming a friendship they also meet Florrie, an older wise woman who has issues of her own.
But the deceit doesn’t stop, can they all get themselves out of the mess and stop the Everyday Lies ?
A powerful tale of three women and the web of deception they bring into their lives.
This is my first read from Louise Guy and it’s an amazing and compelling book.
The writing style is easy to read and captures the mind of the reader and pulls you into the story.
There’s many themes throughout this tangled labyrinth of drama that will have you quickly consuming the pages.
The characters are believable and relatable as their development progresses though the plot.
With the re-releases of Louise’s books and new material to hit the shelves, all will be on my automatic buy list.
Emma and Lucie are very different but they both use lies to cheat the truth.
Wealthy Emma has it all.
A loving husband and lots of money but she is bored and to add excitement to her life she has a secret desire.
Widow Lucie is struggling to survive.
Her five year old is combative and she has very little to pay the bills and put food on the table.
When the law punishes them with community service they discover they have a lot in common including lies.
Forming a friendship they also meet Florrie, an older wise woman who has issues of her own.
But the deceit doesn’t stop, can they all get themselves out of the mess and stop the Everyday Lies ?
A powerful tale of three women and the web of deception they bring into their lives.
This is my first read from Louise Guy and it’s an amazing and compelling book.
The writing style is easy to read and captures the mind of the reader and pulls you into the story.
There’s many themes throughout this tangled labyrinth of drama that will have you quickly consuming the pages.
The characters are believable and relatable as their development progresses though the plot.
With the re-releases of Louise’s books and new material to hit the shelves, all will be on my automatic buy list.
September 10, 2017
I was given the opportunity to read a pre release copy of this book by author, Louise Guy, but at the time I was unable to take advantage. Instead, when I had more time, I bought my own paperback copy from the River Read Bookstore and I'm glad I did. I have read a couple of Louise's children's books and found them enjoyable and was curious about her adult fiction. I found the story of Emma and Lucie very enjoyable. The further I read, the more connected I became to the characters and the dilemmas each faced. This wasn't a superficial story. Louise skilfully crafted the structure well, showcasing the two main protagonists' viewpoints in alternate chapters and left the last chapter for Florrie. The story was well paced, held tension and wasn't predictable. The ending was satisfactory with all threads tied up; a little too neatly for my liking. I wonder what might have happened if there'd been a twist. However, having said that, maybe this is the expectation for this type of fiction. The characters were believable and relatable with their problems and I found myself occasionally thinking about them when I wasn't reading the book. I would highly recommend this book to snuggle up with in your favourite reading nook.
June 7, 2018
This is the second book I've read from this author. She has a way with her style of writing that engages you with the characters & their stories. As with Fortunate Friends the characters are linked in some way. In this case it was quite a bit different & at times amusing. Add in an elderly lady & it makes a rather unique tale.
Aside from the humour there is more with Emma & Lucie than they reveal to the public. Both have a secret which in effect caused them to end up in their predicament they land in. Thus the lies. But they also have serious issues which currently affect many women today. Of course they are not the only ones with problems which greatly impact on these two woman's lives.
Perhaps this is a bit vague but I really don't want to give too much of the story away as I don't want to spoil your reading experience. I loved how the women & their families bonded.
This is quite a touching & realistic tale as Emma & Lucie take you on a journey of showing you how righting the wrongs of your bad choices can enrich your life & make you stronger.
I received a complimentary copy for an honest review. 4.5*
Aside from the humour there is more with Emma & Lucie than they reveal to the public. Both have a secret which in effect caused them to end up in their predicament they land in. Thus the lies. But they also have serious issues which currently affect many women today. Of course they are not the only ones with problems which greatly impact on these two woman's lives.
Perhaps this is a bit vague but I really don't want to give too much of the story away as I don't want to spoil your reading experience. I loved how the women & their families bonded.
This is quite a touching & realistic tale as Emma & Lucie take you on a journey of showing you how righting the wrongs of your bad choices can enrich your life & make you stronger.
I received a complimentary copy for an honest review. 4.5*
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