John Marrs' What Lies Between Us is a gripping psychological thriller that captivates readers with its dark and twisted plot. Enthusiasts appreciate the unpredictable storyline and complex characters, though some find the pacing uneven. Overall, it's praised for maintaining suspense and delivering surprising twists that keep readers on edge.

Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with dark secrets and intense suspense will likely be captivated by John Marrs' What Lies Between Us. Fans of Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl and Paula Hawkins' The Girl on the Train would appreciate the intricate, twisted plot and complex character dynamics in this novel.

What Lies Between Us by John Marrs is a domestic psychological thriller about a middle-aged woman, Nina, who keeps her mother, Maggie, captive for past wrongdoings. The story unfolds over 25 years, exploring intense power struggles, deceptions, and the impact of psychological trauma on their relationship, revealing how profoundly buried secrets can disrupt lives.

Mysterious / Dark / Suspenseful / Unnerving / Emotional

**Nina Simmonds**  
One of the novel's narrators, Nina is a librarian known for her passionate and rebellious nature, as well as her role as a strong yet flawed protagonist with memory lapses and unresolved desires.

**Margaret “Maggie” Simmonds**  
The novel’s second narrator and Nina’s mother, Maggie is characterized by her thoughtful and organized demeanor, working as a receptionist and showing deep concern for others despite her own challenges.

**Dylan “Bobby” Hopkinson**  
Introduced as Nina’s son, Bobby is a reporter whose intelligence and sensitivity guide him in navigating his complex relationship with Nina and Maggie.

**Jon Hunter**  
A local musician and Nina's first serious boyfriend, known for his lifestyle associated with music culture and noted for his involvement in troubling relationships with younger girls.

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Book Brief

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Book Brief What Lies Between Us

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What Lies Between Us Summary and Study Guide

Background

What Lies Between Us Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Part 2, Chapter 14

What Lies Between Us Prologue-Part 2, Chapter 14 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 15-33

What Lies Between Us Part 2, Chapters 15-33 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 34-59

What Lies Between Us Part 2, Chapters 34-59 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Ten Months Later”

Part 2, Chapter 60-Epilogue

What Lies Between Us Part 2, Chapter 60-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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What Lies Between Us Character Analysis

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Themes

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Important Quotes

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