“We Were Liars” by E. Lockhart is a mysterious novel about the wealthy Sinclair family. The family spends every summer on their private island near Martha’s Vineyard, until protagonist Cadence Sinclair gets in a traumatic accident in her 15th summer which causes her to forget everything about past summers. Two years after the accident, she returns to the island determined to piece together what happened that summer 15. Cadence recalls her close bond with her cousins—Mirren and Johnny, and also with Gat, her love interest and close friend of the Sinclair’s—known as the Liars. As she pieces together fragmented memories, she discovers dark family secrets and the impact of their wealth and privilege. The story builds to a shocking twist that reveals the truth about the summer that changed everything.
I would recommend this book. The novel explores themes of betrayal, wealth, loss, and teenage love. These themes are accurate, real life issues that I’m sure would resonate with many young adults. The relationships and characters, especially Gat and Cadence, are deep and complex, which makes the story that much more interesting. The Sinclair family is full of privilege, connections and old money, which made me want to keep reading to understand their backstory. Cadence struggles with mental health after her accident and even becomes addicted to painkillers to help her cope her trauma. Overall, “We Were Liars” by E. Lockhart is a story filled with secrets and suspense, that I think everyone should read.
By Eva
