When it comes to thriller novels, there are many different authors and novels to choose from. In this article, we will be comparing two popular thriller novels: Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty and Devolution by Lars Emmerich. We will be looking at the plot, characters, writing style, themes and motifs, setting, narrative structure, pacing and suspense, societal issues addressed, reception and impact of both novels. By the end of this article, you will have a much better understanding of these two novels and which one may be the best fit for you.
Plot Summary: Big Little Lies vs Devolution
Big Little Lies follows the lives of three mothers whose children attend the same school. The book is set in the fictional town of Pirriwee Peninsula, in Australia. The story revolves around a tragedy that occurs at a school event and the secrets and lies that are revealed in the aftermath. Devolution, on the other hand, follows the story of a group of friends who are stranded in the mountains following a natural disaster. As they struggle to survive, they soon realize that they are not alone and that something far more dangerous than the elements is hunting them.
In Big Little Lies, the characters are forced to confront their own personal demons as they navigate the aftermath of the tragedy. The story explores themes of domestic abuse, infidelity, and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. Devolution, on the other hand, delves into the primal instincts of human beings as they fight for survival in the face of danger. The characters must confront their own fears and weaknesses as they try to outsmart their predator.
Despite their differences in plot and themes, both Big Little Lies and Devolution are gripping page-turners that keep readers on the edge of their seats. They both offer unique insights into the human psyche and the lengths that people will go to protect themselves and their loved ones.
Character Analysis: The Protagonists of Big Little Lies and Devolution
In Big Little Lies, we are introduced to three main protagonists: Madeline, Celeste and Jane. Madeline is a strong-willed and outspoken character, while Celeste is portrayed as the perfect wife and mother, hiding a dark secret. Jane is the newcomer in town, struggling to fit in and dealing with her own troubled past. In Devolution, the main characters are a group of friends who are forced to rely on each other to survive. Each character is unique, with their own strengths and weaknesses that are put to the test as they fight to stay alive.
Despite the differences in the storylines of Big Little Lies and Devolution, both sets of protagonists share a common theme of facing adversity and overcoming challenges. In Big Little Lies, the three women must navigate the complexities of motherhood, relationships, and secrets, while in Devolution, the group of friends must survive in the wilderness after a volcanic eruption. However, both groups of characters demonstrate resilience and strength in the face of adversity, making them compelling and relatable to audiences.
Writing Style: A Comparative Study of Moriarty and Emmerich
Both Liane Moriarty and Lars Emmerich have their own unique writing styles. Moriarty’s writing is engaging and witty, with a focus on the relationships between her characters. Emmerich’s writing is more action-driven, with an emphasis on suspense and fast-paced plot development. While both authors are skilled at crafting compelling stories, their writing styles are quite different.
One notable difference between Moriarty and Emmerich’s writing styles is their use of dialogue. Moriarty’s characters often engage in witty banter and humorous exchanges, which adds to the overall charm of her stories. Emmerich, on the other hand, uses dialogue to drive the plot forward and reveal important information to the reader. This difference in approach to dialogue highlights how each author prioritizes different aspects of storytelling in their writing.
Themes and Motifs in Big Little Lies and Devolution
Big Little Lies explores a number of themes, including motherhood, domestic abuse, and the consequences of keeping secrets. Devolution, on the other hand, deals with themes of survival, friendship, and the dangers of the unknown. Both novels make use of powerful motifs to explore these themes. For example, in Big Little Lies, the theme of secrets is reinforced through the use of a Greek chorus, while in Devolution, the idea of the unknown is explored through the use of monster mythology.
In addition to these themes and motifs, both Big Little Lies and Devolution also feature strong female protagonists who must navigate complex and dangerous situations. In Big Little Lies, the three main characters, Madeline, Celeste, and Jane, must confront their own secrets and the secrets of those around them, while also dealing with the aftermath of domestic abuse. Similarly, in Devolution, the main character, Kate, must fight for survival in the face of a catastrophic event, relying on her own strength and resourcefulness to stay alive. These female characters serve as powerful examples of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
Setting the Stage: Location and Environment in Both Novels
The setting of a novel can often play an important role in the story. In Big Little Lies, the fictional town of Pirriwee Peninsula acts as a character in its own right- a close-knit community with its own secrets and scandals. Devolution, on the other hand, takes place in the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest, with the environment itself presenting numerous challenges to the characters.
In Big Little Lies, the town’s proximity to the ocean and its beaches provide a backdrop for many scenes, highlighting the characters’ privileged lifestyles and the contrast between their public personas and private lives. In Devolution, the dense forests and rugged terrain create a sense of isolation and danger, as the characters struggle to survive in a world where they are no longer at the top of the food chain.
Narrative Structure: How Moriarty and Emmerich Approach Storytelling
The way in which a story is told can have a significant impact on how the reader experiences it. In Big Little Lies, the story is told through multiple perspectives, with each character’s individual story weaving together to create a larger narrative. Devolution, on the other hand, is told in a more traditional linear narrative, with the focus on the action and suspense of the story.
However, both Moriarty and Emmerich share a common approach to storytelling in that they both prioritize character development. In Big Little Lies, the characters are complex and flawed, with their personal struggles and relationships driving the plot forward. Similarly, in Devolution, the characters are well-developed and their actions and decisions are what ultimately determine the outcome of the story. By prioritizing character development, both Moriarty and Emmerich create stories that are not only engaging but also emotionally resonant.
Pacing and Suspense: A Look at the Page-Turning Quality of Both Novels
Both Big Little Lies and Devolution are page-turners, but for different reasons. Big Little Lies is a slow burn, with the suspense building gradually throughout the novel. Devolution, on the other hand, is a fast-paced thriller that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat from start to finish. Whether you prefer a more gradual build-up or immediate high-octane action, both novels deliver.
Societal Issues Addressed in Big Little Lies and Devolution
Big Little Lies and Devolution both tackle important societal issues. Big Little Lies sheds light on the very real problem of domestic abuse, as well as the damaging effects of keeping secrets. Devolution, on the other hand, explores the idea of environmental disaster and the impact it can have on humanity.
Reception and Impact: Comparing the Critical and Public Response to Both Novels
Both Big Little Lies and Devolution have been well received by critics and readers alike. Big Little Lies was adapted into a successful television series, while a film adaptation of Devolution is currently in the works. Both novels have had a significant impact on the thriller genre, with their unique perspectives and thought-provoking themes paving the way for other authors to follow.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Big Little Lies and Devolution are two excellent examples of the thriller genre. While they have many similarities, they also have their own unique strengths and characteristics. Whether you prefer a more character-driven slow burn or a fast-paced action-packed thriller, both novels have something to offer. Regardless of which one you choose, both will leave you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning the pages to see how the story unfolds.