Review of Count My Lies by Sophie Stava
When I first stumbled upon Count My Lies, the title itself gripped me—a promise of intrigue, deception, and the complexities of human nature. Sophie Stava’s debut novel was already garnering buzz, and I was excited to dive into the fabric of its narrative. As I turned the pages, I found myself wondering: where do the lines blur between truth and fiction? In Stava’s world, they blur spectacularly.
The story introduces us to Sloane Caraway, a character whose thirst for an extravagant life permeates every page. Her compulsive lying becomes both her armor and her Achilles’ heel, providing layers that make her fascinating yet deeply flawed. I was immediately drawn into her twisted psyche, trying to empathize with her yearning for a life that feels just out of reach. Working at a nail salon while supporting her mother in Brooklyn isn’t glamorous, but Sloane’s imagination turns her mundane reality into a thrilling tapestry of lies.
Stava’s exploration of the morality of lying is deftly woven into the plot—when does a harmless embellishment transform into a dangerous deceit? I often felt the tension rise as Sloane finds herself ensnared in her web of fabrications after a seemingly innocuous encounter with Jay and his daughter. It’s a precarious situation that made me both anxious and captivated. How could someone be so unaware of the consequences of their deceptions?
Perhaps one of the most compelling aspects of Stava’s writing is the perspective shifts that deepen the story’s complexity. Just as I felt I knew Sloane, Violet—the character who appears to possess everything Sloane craves—takes over as narrator. Her own lies and manipulations unravel a parallel thread, forcing me to reconsider the very concepts of success and authenticity. I adored this narrative technique; it not only kept the suspense alive but also shed light on the hidden realities we often overlook.
Furthermore, Stava’s pacing was a delightful surprise. The novel’s twists kept me guessing, while her sharp dialogue and vivid descriptions of both characters and settings made it easy to visualize the drama unfold. As Sloane burrowed deeper into the Lockhart family’s life, I found myself invested in their secrets. It’s the quintessential “unreliable narrator” dynamic, where every page flips expectations.
Listening to the audiobook was a rewarding experience, too. The narration by Emily Tremaine, Devon Sorvari, and Andrew Eiden added an extra layer of engagement. Their performances breathed life into the inner turmoil of Sloane, Violet, and Jay, making the nearly 11-hour experience a profound examination of trust and betrayal.
In conclusion, Count My Lies is a thrilling debut that asks us to confront our perceptions of truth and deception. It’s perfect for readers who relish psychological suspense and character-driven narratives—with a twisty plot that leaves you questioning everything you’ve assumed. Personally, this book was an engrossing exploration of human complexity, and it reminded me just how captivating the dance between truth and lies can be. I would highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys thrillers that prompt deep reflection on the very fabric of existence itself.
Sophie Stava has certainly made her mark, and I can’t wait to see where her storytelling takes us next.