Big Lies in a Small Town: A Novel

Big Lies in a Small Town by Diane Chamberlain is an intriguing story. I like how the story is laid out in the two different timelines. As Morgan Christopher works on the mural, we get to follow Anna as she works on creating it. It was interesting learning about the mural competition along with what it took to create a mural and restore one. This is the first novel I have read by Diane Chamberlain and it will not be my last. I thought it was well-written with developed characters and a lovely, Southern setting. The descriptions allowed me to imagine the setting and the characters. I could picture the small Southern town with its “powerful” men (to me they were overweight men who were indulging the little lady) and uptight ladies who did not appreciate Anna’s unique artistic ways. I felt for Morgan who took the rap for a crime she did not commit because love led her astray. I thought the author captured the feel of the south in the 1940s. I found it humorous how scandalized people were when Anna wore trousers. I liked the two mysteries in the story. We wonder what happened to Anna and why was Morgan chosen to restore the mural. I became engrossed in the story because I was eager to learn the answers. There is some offensive language along with violence (murder, violence against a female) as well as racism and alcoholism (so you are forewarned). I enjoyed how it all came together in the end (just as I hoped it would). Big Lies in a Small Town was a fascinating story with an ending that did not disappoint.

Big Lies in a Small Town by Diane Chamberlain is a split time novel set in North Carolina in the 1940‘s and 2018. What a story of art, mystery, secrets, lies, racial strife, life and love. It is a story of how lives are changed and restored. The characters influence each life they touch for good or evil. There is so much depth to this book and what comes to light in the end is unbelievable. I think it will touch most hearts. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. I appreciate the opportunity and thank the author and publisher for allowing me to read, enjoy and review this book. 5 Stars

Big Lies in a Small Town by Diane Chamberlain Intricately woven story that moves seamlessly between1940 and 2018 – I was captivated from the beginning and could not stop reading till the very end. The first scene had me wondering what had happened and though I did not find out immediately I learned in due time. Two women brought together by one mural – one created it and one will restore it – both live for a time in the same small North Carolina town while working and both have life altering experiences. What I liked: * The way the story unfolds...I don’t usually like alternating chapters taking place in different eras but this worked seamlessly and was perfectly * Anna – the woman from the North sent to the South to create a mural for the post office. She was so intelligent, focused and giving...really liked her * Morgan – she had a tough life but was so willing to work hard and do things right. I enjoyed getting to know her and feel she has a future to be proud of...and a HEA to look forward to * Jesse – in addition to being a superb artist he was a great friend and mentor to many * Jesse’s family – I would love to have visited with more than one of them * The idea of second chances * Learning so much about murals – how they are painted and restored – almost makes me want to paint on in my own house * Everything except what I did not like… What I did not like: * The bigotry, racism and male attitude in the 40’s (though not sure how much better it is now) * The way Anna & Morgan were hurt by men * Having to say goodbye to the characters at the end of the book Did I enjoy this book? Definitely Would I read more by this author? Without a doubt! Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC – This is my honest review. 5 Stars