Thriller novels have always been popular, but in recent years, they have become more mainstream, thanks to the success of books like Big Little Lies, written by Liane Moriarty, and Burn, written by Lars Emmerich. These two novels have a lot in common but also have unique differences that make them both worth exploring. In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at both novels, analyze their plot, compare their characters, examine their themes, and explore the future of the thriller genre.
An Introduction to Liane Moriarty and Lars Emmerich
Liane Moriarty is an Australian author who has written several successful novels. Her most famous work is Big Little Lies, which was first published in 2014 and later adapted into a successful television series. The novel explores the lives of three women in a wealthy Sydney suburb who become embroiled in scandal and violence. Moriarty’s writing is known for its blend of humor, drama, and suspense.
Lars Emmerich, on the other hand, is an American author who has written several international thrillers, including Burn. His writing style is fast-paced and his plots are often politically charged and full of action. Burn features a former CIA operative who is pulled back into the game after a terrorist threat arises in the US.
In addition to her successful writing career, Liane Moriarty is also a mother of two and a former advertising copywriter. She draws inspiration from her own life experiences and observations of human behavior. Moriarty has won several awards for her writing, including the Australian Book Industry Award for General Fiction in 2015.
Lars Emmerich, on the other hand, has a background in law and politics. He worked as a lawyer in Washington D.C. before turning to writing full-time. Emmerich’s novels often explore themes of power, corruption, and conspiracy. He has been praised for his ability to create complex characters and intricate plots.
Analyzing the Plot of Big Little Lies
Big Little Lies is a complex novel that revolves around three women: Madeline, Celeste, and Jane. The story begins with a murder at a school fundraiser and then takes us back to the beginning of the school year to follow these three women’s lives as they become entangled in a web of lies and intrigue. The novel explores themes of motherhood, domestic violence, and the pressure to fit in. The plot is layered, with multiple twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the very end.
Analyzing the Plot of “Burn”
Burn is a fast-paced thriller that centers around a former CIA operative named Peter Ash. When a terrorist threat arises in the US, Peter is pulled back into the game to help stop the attack. While the plot is focused on action and suspense, the story also explores themes of PTSD, heroism, and redemption. The plot is full of twists and turns that keep the reader on the edge of their seat until the very end.
Comparing the Characters in Big Little Lies and “Burn”
One of the key differences between Big Little Lies and Burn is their characters. While both novels feature strong female characters, Big Little Lies focuses more on the complex relationships between its three female leads, while Burn is more action-oriented and features a male protagonist. Both novels have well-drawn characters, but they serve different purposes in their respective plots.
Themes in Big Little Lies and “Burn”
Big Little Lies explores themes of friendship, marriage, motherhood, and the pressure to maintain a perfect facade. The novel also delves into issues of domestic violence and the psychological toll it takes on its victims. Burn, on the other hand, explores themes of heroism, redemption, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as the realities of terrorism and government intervention. Both novels deal with heavy themes in an engaging way that keeps the reader invested in the story.
Writing Style Comparison between Moriarty and Emmerich
While both Moriarty and Emmerich write in the thriller genre, their styles are distinct. Moriarty’s writing is known for its blend of humor and drama, while Emmerich’s writing is fast-paced and action-oriented. Both writers have their own unique strengths, and that is reflected in their novels.
The Popularity of Thriller Novels in Modern Literature
Thriller novels have always had a dedicated fanbase, but in recent years, their popularity has exploded. From Gillian Flynn’s Gone Girl to Paula Hawkins’ The Girl on the Train, thrillers are now a part of mainstream literature. This is due in part to the success of adaptations for film and television, as well as the accessibility of self-publishing platforms like Amazon.
Exploring the Psychological Thriller Genre
Many thrillers, including Big Little Lies and Burn, can be classified as psychological thrillers. These novels delve into the often-dark corners of the human psyche, exploring complex characters and the motivations behind their actions. This sub-genre of thrillers has become increasingly popular in recent years, with authors like Tana French and Gillian Flynn leading the charge.
The Importance of Strong Female Characters in Thriller Novels
One trend that has emerged in modern thrillers is the presence of strong female characters. This is evident in novels like Big Little Lies, The Girl on the Train, and The Silent Patient. These characters often form the backbone of the story and are portrayed as complex, multi-dimensional beings. They serve as a counterpoint to the often one-dimensional male villains that populate many thrillers.
The Role of Suspense in Big Little Lies and “Burn”
Suspense is a key element of both Big Little Lies and Burn. The novels are structured in such a way that the reader is never entirely sure what’s going to happen next. This creates a tension that keeps the reader invested in the story. Both novels also use multiple points of view to create a sense of unease and a feeling that things are not as they seem.
The Significance of Settings in Thriller Novels
Settings are often a key component of thrillers. In Big Little Lies, the wealthy suburb of Monterey serves as the backdrop for the story. The pressure to maintain a perfect image and fit in with the other wealthy parents adds to the tension of the plot. In Burn, the Pacific Northwest wilderness is a major setting, creating a sense of isolation and danger. Both novels use their settings to create a mood and further immerse the reader in their respective stories.
Examining Twists and Turns in Big Little Lies and “Burn”
Both Big Little Lies and Burn are known for their multiple twists and turns. These surprises keep the reader engaged and invested in the story. In Big Little Lies, there are several major twists, including the revelation of the murder victim and the true identity of the killer. In Burn, there are several surprises, including the true nature of the terrorist threat and the identity of the mastermind behind it.
The Impact of Social Issues in Big Little Lies and “Burn”
Both Big Little Lies and Burn deal with important social issues. Big Little Lies explores the ways in which domestic violence can impact people’s lives and emphasizes the importance of speaking out against it. Burn examines the realities of terrorism and the impact it can have on both the victims and the heroes who fight it. By exploring these issues in their writing, Moriarty and Emmerich shine a light on important topics and encourage readers to think critically about the world around them.
The Future of Thriller Novels: What’s Next for Moriarty and Emmerich?
As the popularity of thriller novels continues to grow, it’s worth considering what’s next for two of the genre’s most well-known authors, Liane Moriarty and Lars Emmerich. Moriarty has continued to write successful novels, including Nine Perfect Strangers and Truly Madly Guilty, while Emmerich has released several more books in his Peter Ash series. As the genre continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these two authors adapt and continue to engage readers with their writing.
Conclusion
Thriller novels are an integral part of modern literature, and Big Little Lies and Burn are two examples of why. Both novels feature engaging plots, well-drawn characters, and explore important social issues. As the genre continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see what new directions it takes, and how authors like Liane Moriarty and Lars Emmerich continue to push its boundaries.