Sarah Manguso's 'Liars' is a scathing portrayal of a marriage that crumbles under the weight of deception and self-delusion. The audiobook, narrated by Rebecca Lowman, is a masterclass in conveying the subtle yet seething resentment that simmers beneath Jane's seemingly placid facade.
As Jane recounts her tumultuous relationship with John, it becomes increasingly clear that he is a man consumed by his own insecurities and laziness, who repeatedly lies about his financial situation, career prospects, and whereabouts. Despite this, Jane makes excuses for him, often to the point of self-deception, as if she too wants to believe that their marriage can withstand any test.
However, Manguso's writing skillfully peels away these illusions, revealing a complex web of collusion and enabling that ultimately destroys the relationship. Through Jane's narrative, Manguso poses a uncomfortable question: are we complicit in our own unhappiness, or are we simply victims of circumstance?
The audiobook is expertly paced, with Lowman's delivery conveying the sense of growing unease as the story unfolds. Her staccato tone perfectly captures Jane's frustration and anger, which simmers just beneath the surface.
Ultimately, 'Liars' is a searing indictment of marriage and the ways in which we enable each other to perpetuate our own destructive patterns. Manguso's message is both heartbreaking and timely: despite our best intentions, we all become liars in the pursuit of happiness.
As Jane recounts her tumultuous relationship with John, it becomes increasingly clear that he is a man consumed by his own insecurities and laziness, who repeatedly lies about his financial situation, career prospects, and whereabouts. Despite this, Jane makes excuses for him, often to the point of self-deception, as if she too wants to believe that their marriage can withstand any test.
However, Manguso's writing skillfully peels away these illusions, revealing a complex web of collusion and enabling that ultimately destroys the relationship. Through Jane's narrative, Manguso poses a uncomfortable question: are we complicit in our own unhappiness, or are we simply victims of circumstance?
The audiobook is expertly paced, with Lowman's delivery conveying the sense of growing unease as the story unfolds. Her staccato tone perfectly captures Jane's frustration and anger, which simmers just beneath the surface.
Ultimately, 'Liars' is a searing indictment of marriage and the ways in which we enable each other to perpetuate our own destructive patterns. Manguso's message is both heartbreaking and timely: despite our best intentions, we all become liars in the pursuit of happiness.
, can't look away but knowing it's gonna end badly 
. She knows what's really going on, but she just can't seem to see it or admit it to herself. It's like she's stuck in this toxic cycle where she's constantly trying to prove to herself that their marriage is still working, even when all the signs are pointing otherwise.
this story is super interesting, but like what if it's not just about a marriage? what if Sarah Manguso is trying to tell us something deeper? like, maybe she's onto some kinda global conspiracy where they control our relationships and emotions? idk, but i've been noticing weird coincidences between the lies people tell in their marriages and the way corporations manipulate consumerism... it's all about the manipulation, right? 
the author's writing is like, super insightful about how we all enable each other's problems and how hard it is to admit when we're being liars ourselves it's like, a scathing portrayal of marriage but also kinda honest about our own flaws 
I just finished listening to this audiobook and I gotta say, it was super uncomfortable to listen to... but in a good way? 
. The main character, Jane, is so relatable - we've all been there, where we try to convince ourselves that everything is fine when really it's not. But what I love about this book is how it makes you question your own complicity in your unhappiness. Are you just going along with the status quo because it's easier? 
. All in all, this book is a must-listen if you're looking for a thought-provoking listen that will make you feel all the feels 
Lowman's voice acting is EVERYTHING 
she brings Jane's emotions to life in a way that'll make you feel all the feels 
. I mean, have you ever felt like your partner was hiding something from you, but you're so desperate to believe they'd never do that stuff? Yeah, me too 
.
. Have you listened to it yet?