Tell Me Lies

Tell Me Lies

book

2018

WISE
42%

WISE Score

3.9

Amazon

A literary train wreck that perfectly captures the 'don't text him back' energy of a toxic college romance.

Amazon3.9
Common Sense Media

Where to Read

Amazon
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Barnes & Noble
Libby
Libby

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Screenwise Verdict

Tell Me Lies is the book version of that one friend who keeps dating the guy everyone hates—you’re exhausted by the drama, but you can't stop listening to the updates.

It’s not 'wholesome' by any stretch of the imagination. It’s a dark, gritty exploration of a parasitic relationship. For adults, it’s a compelling, fast-paced read that might remind you of your own worst dating decisions. For anyone younger, it’s just a roadmap to a bad time. Read it if you want a psychological thriller disguised as a romance, but don't expect to feel good when you close the back cover.

Age Fit

This is strictly for the 18+ crowd. It deals with mature themes of sexuality and psychological abuse that are way too heavy for high schoolers, even if they think they're ready for 'college' books.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
22

The entire plot revolves around a toxic, manipulative, and emotionally draining relationship. It's the antithesis of 'emotionally healthy,' though that is the point of the narrative.

Imaginative
45

It's a standard contemporary 'New Adult' drama. It doesn't break new ground in form or world-building, but it is a sharp, if depressing, character study.

Safe
35

Contains heavy themes of gaslighting, emotional abuse, and explicit sexual content. While 'safe' for an adult reader, it's a minefield of triggers for anyone looking for a positive or lighthearted read.

Enriching
58

It serves as a brutal cautionary tale. If you want to understand how narcissists operate and why smart people stay in bad situations, this offers genuine psychological insight.

Parent Info
✓

Why It Might Be Great

  • It is a masterclass in identifying 'red flags' and narcissistic personality traits.
  • The pacing is addictive; you'll finish it in two sittings even while you're yelling at the protagonist.
  • It offers a raw, non-sugarcoated look at how obsession can override common sense.
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What to Watch For

  • Extreme gaslighting and emotional manipulation that can be very triggering.
  • Graphic sexual descriptions and frequent substance use (college party culture).
  • The 'villain' of the story is genuinely chilling and offers no redemption arc.

Conversation Starters

  • "What was the very first moment Lucy should have walked away from Stephen?"
  • "Why do you think Lucy's friends didn't—or couldn't—get through to her?"
  • "How does the book portray the difference between 'love' and 'obsession'?"

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