We Were Liars by E. Lockhart

4.5 stars
If you are reading this and haven't read the summary about the book - don't do it.  I went into this knowing only that it was a thriller/mystery and nothing more. It is so much better not knowing than reading the synopsis beforehand. I found it to be beautifully written. It takes a little while to get into the cadence of the prose, but once you do, it is gorgeous. 

I love books where the narrator's voice is distinctive, and Cady certainly is like no other protagonist I have read. This was truly a book that relies on the strength of the narrator. The characters are drawn in a psychological manner that shows that Lockhart must truly be a people observer. They are so nuanced and full that they feel like real people.  While there is a building of tension and answers that hang just out of reach, it is a study in human nature. It is a quick read because it is short, but it packs an emotional punch for such a small book.  I don't cry over books, but this one did have me wiping away a tear or two (Ok, maybe three). 

I loved the fairy tale vignettes interspersed throughout the text. I thought they were beautiful and brilliant. They added a nice metaphorical touch to Cady's journey.

I noticed some missing commas, but it wasn't enough to distract me from the narrative. This was all in all a great book, and I would recommend it to fans of great characters.  There was some language (a few f-bombs), but it was sex free.