Thriller novels are a popular genre that enthralls readers with intense suspense, unexpected plot twists, and thrilling action. From the eerie world of psychological thrillers to the thrilling and action-packed action-adventure genre, thrillers come in various shapes and forms. Two recent thriller novels that have captured the public’s attention are Ruth Ware’s “The Lying Game” and Lars Emmerich’s “Devolution.” In this article, we will compare these two books, exploring their similarities and differences, their characters and plots, and the writing styles of the authors.
Ruth Ware’s The Lying Game: A Synopsis
Set in the coastal town of Salten, “The Lying Game” follows four boarding school friends: Isa, Kate, Thea, and Fatima, who reunite seventeen years after graduation when their past comes back to haunt them. The novel explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of decisions made in youth. Written in Ware’s signature style, the novel offers a haunting atmosphere and a complicated plot that leaves the reader guessing until the end.
One of the most intriguing aspects of “The Lying Game” is the setting of Salten, which plays a significant role in the story. The town is described as a place where the sea and the marshes meet, creating a sense of isolation and unease. The characters are constantly surrounded by the eerie landscape, which adds to the overall atmosphere of the novel. Additionally, the town’s history and secrets are intertwined with the plot, making it a character in its own right.
Lars Emmerich’s Devolution: A Synopsis
“Devolution,” the latest novel by Lars Emmerich, follows ex-CIA operative and war veteran Dante LeBlanc as he fights to stop a terrorist group from unleashing chaos upon the world. Set in the present day, the novel explores themes of war, terrorism, and the sacrifices made by ordinary people to protect their country. Emmerich’s writing style is fast-paced, visceral, and action-oriented, keeping readers on the edge of their seat.
The novel also delves into the psychological toll of war on soldiers and their families. Dante struggles with PTSD and the guilt of past actions, while his wife and children cope with the aftermath of his service. Emmerich portrays the human side of war, highlighting the emotional scars that can last long after the physical wounds have healed.
Additionally, “Devolution” offers a commentary on the current political climate and the role of government in protecting its citizens. The novel raises questions about the balance between national security and personal freedom, and the consequences of sacrificing one for the other. Emmerich’s thought-provoking narrative challenges readers to consider the complexities of modern-day warfare and the impact it has on individuals and society as a whole.
Genre Characteristics of Thriller Novels
Thriller novels share many genre characteristics, such as a focus on suspense, strong plotlines, and intense action. These novels also often contain a villain or criminal mastermind, and a hero or protagonist who is trying to defeat them. Thriller novels often deal with high stakes, such as life or death, political power, or societal collapse.
Another common characteristic of thriller novels is the use of plot twists and unexpected turns. These twists keep the reader engaged and guessing until the very end. Additionally, many thriller novels explore psychological themes, such as fear, paranoia, and obsession. These themes add depth to the story and create a more immersive reading experience. Overall, thriller novels are a popular genre due to their ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats and provide a thrilling escape from reality.
Similarities Between The Lying Game and Devolution
Despite their different premises, “The Lying Game” and “Devolution” share some similarities. Both explore themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of decisions made in the past. Both also contain elements of suspense and contain complex plotlines involving many different characters.
Another similarity between the two is the use of multiple perspectives to tell the story. “The Lying Game” and “Devolution” both use different character viewpoints to give the reader a more complete understanding of the events taking place. This technique allows for a deeper exploration of the characters’ motivations and emotions.
Additionally, both books feature strong female protagonists who must navigate dangerous situations and make difficult choices. In “The Lying Game,” Sutton Mercer must uncover the truth about her own murder, while in “Devolution,” Kate Holland must fight for survival in a world overrun by Sasquatches. Both characters demonstrate resilience and resourcefulness in the face of adversity.
Differences Between The Lying Game and Devolution
While “The Lying Game” and “Devolution” share similarities, they are also different in many ways. “The Lying Game” is a psychological thriller, while “Devolution” falls more into the action-adventure category. “The Lying Game” follows a group of female friends, while “Devolution” follows a male ex-CIA operative. Additionally, the settings are vastly different; one is set in a small coastal town, while the other takes place in the world of international espionage and terrorism.
Another major difference between the two is the tone. “The Lying Game” is a slow-burning mystery that keeps the audience guessing until the very end, while “Devolution” is a fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled ride that never lets up. The characters in “The Lying Game” are complex and nuanced, with their own secrets and motivations, while the characters in “Devolution” are more straightforward and action-oriented.
Furthermore, the themes explored in each work are distinct. “The Lying Game” delves into the intricacies of human relationships and the consequences of lying, while “Devolution” explores the dangers of unchecked power and the lengths people will go to protect their interests. Both works are engaging and thought-provoking in their own right, but they offer different experiences for the reader or viewer.
Themes Explored in The Lying Game and Devolution
Both “The Lying Game” and “Devolution” explore themes related to loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of one’s decisions. The characters in both novels are forced to confront their past, and they must make difficult choices that affect their future. In “Devolution,” themes related to terrorism and the politics of government surveillance are explored, while “The Lying Game” deals with themes of femininity and motherhood.
Additionally, “The Lying Game” also delves into the theme of identity and the struggle to find one’s true self. The main character, Emma, grapples with the discovery that she was switched at birth and must navigate the complexities of her new family dynamic. This theme is further explored through the other characters in the novel, who also struggle with their own identities and the secrets they keep hidden from others. Overall, both “The Lying Game” and “Devolution” offer thought-provoking explorations of complex themes that resonate with readers long after the final page is turned.
Character Analysis: Comparing the Protagonists in The Lying Game and Devolution
The protagonists in “The Lying Game” and “Devolution” share a common trait: a sense of responsibility for their actions and the ability to think critically in challenging situations. Isa and Dante are both sympathetic and complex characters that the reader roots for, and the supporting characters in both novels are well fleshed out.
Plot Twists and Suspenseful Moments in The Lying Game and Devolution
Both “The Lying Game” and “Devolution” contain numerous plot twists and suspenseful moments that keep the reader engaged. Ruth Ware expertly builds tension throughout The Lying Game, while Lars Emmerich’s Devolution is full of unexpected, action-packed moments. Both authors have mastered the art of the plot twist, keeping the reader engaged until the very end.
Writing Style Comparison: Ruth Ware vs Lars Emmerich
Ruth Ware and Lars Emmerich are very different in their writing styles. Ware’s writing is atmospheric and more subdued, focusing on detail and nuance. Emmerich, on the other hand, is more straightforward and fast-paced, with a focus on action. Despite the differences in their styles, both authors are skilled in creating compelling and complex characters and engrossing the reader in their stories.
In conclusion, “The Lying Game” and “Devolution” are two excellent thriller novels that showcase the range of the genre. While both novels share some similarities, they also differ in many ways, from their themes to their settings, and their writing styles. If you are a fan of thrillers, these two novels are a must-read.