Thriller novels are a popular genre that keeps readers in suspense until the very end. Two recent thriller novels that have gained popularity are Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty and The Wrong by Lars Emmerich. In this article, we will be comparing these two novels, discussing the similarities and differences in plot, characters, themes, and writing styles.
Introducing the Authors: Liane Moriarty and Lars Emmerich
Liane Moriarty is an Australian author known for her best-selling novel Big Little Lies, which was eventually adapted into a successful TV series. She has also written many other novels such as The Husband’s Secret, Three Wishes, and Truly Madly Guilty.
Lars Emmerich is a German-American novelist known for his political thriller novels. He has written many best-selling novels, including The Memory of Judgment, The Tesla Legacy, and most recently, The Wrong.
In addition to her successful career as a novelist, Liane Moriarty has also worked as a freelance advertising copywriter. She has won numerous awards for her advertising work, including a Cannes Lion award.
Lars Emmerich, on the other hand, has a background in law and politics. He worked as a lawyer before transitioning to writing full-time. His experience in politics and law has heavily influenced his writing, and his novels often explore political intrigue and corruption.
Analyzing the Plot of Big Little Lies
Big Little Lies is set in a wealthy coastal town in Australia. The plot revolves around the lives of three women, Madeline, Celeste, and Jane, who become entangled in a murder mystery. The novel explores themes of domestic violence, motherhood, and the facade of happiness.
The character of Madeline is a strong-willed and outspoken woman who struggles with her ex-husband’s new marriage and her teenage daughter’s rebellion. She becomes friends with Celeste, a beautiful and wealthy woman who appears to have the perfect life, but is secretly suffering from domestic abuse. Jane, a young single mother, moves to the town with her son and becomes the target of bullying and rumors.
As the story unfolds, the three women’s lives become intertwined and their secrets are revealed. The murder mystery serves as a backdrop to explore the complex relationships between the characters and the issues they face. The novel also delves into the societal pressures placed on women to conform to certain expectations and the consequences of not doing so.
Examining the Characters in Big Little Lies
The three main characters of Big Little Lies, Madeline, Celeste, and Jane, are complex and fully fleshed out. Madeline is a strong-willed mother of three dealing with her ex-husband’s new marriage. Celeste is a beautiful and successful lawyer hiding a dark secret. Jane is a single mother new to the town, trying to escape her past. All three women are dealing with their own personal struggles, but their lives become intertwined when a murder occurs within their community.
Madeline is a character who is often seen as the leader of the group. She is outspoken and unafraid to speak her mind, which can sometimes lead to conflicts with others. However, she is also fiercely loyal to her friends and will do anything to protect them. Her struggles with her ex-husband’s new marriage are a central theme throughout the show, and her journey towards acceptance and forgiveness is a major part of her character arc.
Celeste’s character is one of the most complex in the show. On the surface, she appears to have it all – a successful career, a beautiful home, and a loving husband. However, as the show progresses, we learn that she is hiding a dark secret – she is a victim of domestic abuse. Her journey towards acknowledging and confronting her abuse is a powerful and emotional storyline that is handled with sensitivity and care.
Understanding the Themes in Big Little Lies
Big Little Lies explores many themes such as domestic violence, motherhood, and the facade of happiness. The novel highlights the fact that people often hide their struggles and present a perfect image to the world. It also addresses the issues of domestic violence and the impact it can have on a person’s life. The novel beautifully portrays the complexities of motherhood and the lengths that mothers will go to protect their children.
Another important theme in Big Little Lies is the power of secrets. The novel shows how secrets can have a destructive impact on individuals and their relationships. The characters in the novel struggle with keeping secrets and the consequences of revealing them. The novel also explores the idea of trust and how it can be broken when secrets are kept.
Furthermore, the novel also touches on the theme of social class and privilege. The characters in the novel come from different socioeconomic backgrounds and this affects their experiences and interactions with each other. The novel shows how privilege can be used as a tool to manipulate and control others. It also highlights the inequalities that exist in society and the impact they can have on individuals and their relationships.
Reviewing The Wrong by Lars Emmerich
The Wrong is a political thriller set in Washington D.C. The plot revolves around Matt Rider, a lawyer who is hired to investigate a senator’s death. As Matt delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a dangerous and sinister plot.
Analyzing the Plot of The Wrong
The plot of The Wrong is complex and full of twists and turns. Lars Emmerich expertly weaves together the different plot threads to create a gripping story that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The novel explores themes such as political corruption, power, and manipulation.
Examining the Characters in The Wrong
The character of Matt Rider is well developed, and readers will empathize with his struggles. Other characters such as Senator Clark, Elizabeth, and Keith are also interesting and have their own motives. Each character’s role in the plot is well thought out and contributes to the overall story.
Understanding the Themes in The Wrong
The Wrong explores the corrupt and manipulative nature of politics. The novel highlights the lengths that some politicians will go to maintain their power and control. It also addresses the issue of trust in politics and how difficult it can be to differentiate between the truth and lies.
Comparing the Similarities and Differences in Plot between Big Little Lies and The Wrong
Although Big Little Lies and The Wrong are vastly different novels, there are some similarities in terms of plot. Both novels have a complex and well-written plot that keeps readers engaged until the very end. However, The Wrong is more political in nature, while Big Little Lies is more focused on domestic issues. Additionally, The Wrong has more of a mystery element to it, while Big Little Lies is more of a drama.
Comparing the Similarities and Differences in Characters between Big Little Lies and The Wrong
Both Big Little Lies and The Wrong have well-developed characters that readers will find interesting. However, the characters in The Wrong are a bit more one-dimensional, as the focus is more on the plot and politics, rather than character development. Big Little Lies, on the other hand, has fully fleshed out characters that readers will empathize with and root for throughout the novel.
Exploring the Common Themes in Both Novels
Although both novels have different settings and plots, there are some common themes that run throughout both books. Both novels address the theme of deception and people’s ability to hide their true selves. They also explore the theme of trust, particularly in relationships and politics.
Evaluating the Writing Styles of Liane Moriarty and Lars Emmerich
Both Liane Moriarty and Lars Emmerich are skilled writers who know how to keep readers engaged. Liane Moriarty’s writing is focused on character development, while Lars Emmerich’s writing is more focused on plot. Both writers have their own unique style that makes their books stand out.
Which Novel is Better: A Comparative Analysis
Deciding which novel is better, Big Little Lies or The Wrong, is difficult as both are well-written and engaging. It ultimately depends on the reader’s preferences. If you enjoy domestic drama and character development, Big Little Lies is for you. If you enjoy political thrillers and complex plots, then The Wrong is the better choice.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Big Little Lies vs The Wrong
Overall, Big Little Lies and The Wrong are both well-written novels that are worth a read. They are vastly different in terms of plot and focus, but both explore important themes that are relevant to modern society. Whether you prefer drama or political intrigue, both novels have something to offer. So, pick up a copy of either Big Little Lies or The Wrong and get ready to be transported into their respective worlds of intrigue and suspense.