Best Diane Chamberlain Books in 2023

• Best Overall: The Stolen Marriage: A Novel
• Best Budget: Reflection
• Best Value: The Last House on the Street: A Novel
• Editor's Choise: Pretending to Dance: A Novel

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#1: Necessary Lies: A Novel

Specs:

• Title: Necessary Lies: A Novel
• Author: Diane Chamberlain
• Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin; Reprint edition (October 7, 2014)
• Paperback: 368 pages
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1250073355
• ISBN-13: 978-1250073350

What we like:

• The novel "Necessary Lies" is beautifully written and tells the story of two women living in rural North Carolina in the 1960s: Jane and Ivy. Jane, a young social worker, is tasked with assisting Ivy, a young woman who is pregnant and married to an abusive partner. Jane discovers a shocking secret about Ivy's family as she and Ivy grow closer, and she must decide whether to keep quiet or risk everything to help Ivy and her family.
• The novel's characters are extraordinarily well-developed and feel like real people with real problems. Chamberlain does an excellent job of immersing the reader in the era and setting, with vivid descriptions of the 1960s rural South. The story is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, and you will remember it long after you've finished reading it.

What we don't like:

• The subject matter of "Necessary Lies" may be heavy and difficult to read for some readers. The novel addresses topics such as poverty, racism, abuse, and forced sterilization, which may be upsetting to some readers.

Our Verdict:

Overall, "Necessary Lies" is a potent and thought-provoking novel that is certain to resonate with its audience. Diane Chamberlain is a gifted writer who approaches challenging topics with sensitivity and grace. "Necessary Lies" is an excellent choice if you are seeking a book that will provoke profound thought and emotion. Highly suggested.

 #2: Big Lies in a Small Town

Specs:

• Title: Big Lies in a Small Town
• Author: Diane Chamberlain
• Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin; Reprint edition (January 5, 2021)
• Paperback: 400 pages
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1250087328
• ISBN-13: 978-1250087326

What we like:

• Big Lies in a Small Town is a compelling and suspenseful novel written by Diane Chamberlain. The book interweaves two timelines, one in the present and one in the late 1940s, to tell the story of two women connected by a mysterious mural. The well-developed characters and intricate plot keep the reader interested. Chamberlain's writing is vivid and evocative, bringing the North Carolina town of Edenton to life.

What we don't like:

• Big Lies in a Small Town contains some heavy themes, such as racism, sexual assault, and mental illness, which could be considered a drawback. Although these topics are handled with sensitivity, some readers may find them challenging to read.

Our Verdict:

Overall, we strongly recommend Big Lies in a Small Town to suspense and character-driven fiction enthusiasts. The book is engaging, well-written, and thought-provoking. Chamberlain does address some challenging topics, but it does so with sensitivity and care. Big Lies in a Small Town is an excellent choice if you're looking for a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat while also exploring complex issues.

 #3: The Stolen Marriage: A Novel

Specs:

• Title: The Stolen Marriage
• Author: Diane Chamberlain
• Format: Paperback
• Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin; Reprint edition (August 14, 2018)
• Pages: 384 pages
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1250087279
• ISBN-13: 978-1250087273

What we like:

• "The Stolen Marriage" is an emotionally engaging and meticulously researched work of historical fiction by Diane Chamberlain. The story is set in a North Carolina small town during the 1940s. Tess, the protagonist, is caught in a loveless marriage and embroiled in a scandal that threatens to destroy her life. The characters are multifaceted and relatable, and the plot is filled with unexpected turns. Chamberlain's writing is vivid and specific, transporting the reader to the story's time and place.

What we don't like:

• Some readers may find "The Stolen Marriage's" pacing to be slow at times, which is a potential drawback. While the book is well-written and captivating, it takes its time establishing the characters and plot.

Our Verdict:

Overall, we recommend "The Stolen Marriage" to historical fiction and character-driven story enthusiasts. The novel is well-researched and beautifully written, with a cast of intriguing and complex characters. Despite occasional sluggish pacing, the story's progression to a satisfying conclusion is well worth the wait. "The Stolen Marriage" is an excellent choice if you want to be transported to a different time and place while also exploring timeless themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption.

 #4: The Last House on the Street: A Novel

Specs:

• Title: The Last House on the Street
• Author: Diane Chamberlain
• Format: Paperback
• Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin (January 17, 2023)
• Pages: 400 pages
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1250272813
• ISBN-13: 978-1250272812

What we like:

• "The Last House on the Street," Diane Chamberlain's most recent novel, is a riveting and suspenseful thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Cora, a young woman who moves into a new home on a quiet street, finds herself entangled in a web of dangerous secrets and lies. The well-developed characters and intricate plot will keep the reader guessing until the final page. Chamberlain's writing is atmospheric and engaging, transporting the reader into the story's world.

What we don't like:

• As this is an unreleased product, we are unable to determine what we dislike about it.

Our Verdict:

We are confident in recommending "The Last House on the Street" to fans of suspenseful and fast-paced thrillers based on the author's previous works and the book's synopsis. Chamberlain has demonstrated her prowess as a storyteller, and we expect nothing less from her forthcoming work. "The Last House on the Street" is a must-read if you're searching for a book that will keep you up all night.

 #5: Before the Storm

Specs:

• Title: Before the Storm
• Author: Diane Chamberlain
• Format: Kindle Edition
• Publisher: MIRA; Reprint edition (August 7, 2018)
• File Size: 2269 KB
• Print Length: 383 pages
• Language: English
• ASIN: B076ZW2QY8

What we like:

• Before the Storm is an engrossing and affecting family drama that explores themes of love, loss, and forgiveness. Due to a tragic event in their past, Laura and Rosie have been estranged from one another for many years. As a result of their father's illness, they are forced to confront their past and the secrets that have kept them apart. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the plot's many twists keep the reader interested. The writing of Chamberlain is eloquent and emotionally stirring, leaving a lasting impression.

What we don't like:

• Some readers may find the emotional intensity of "Before the Storm" to be overwhelming. Some readers may find it challenging to process the story's weighty subject matter, including death, grief, and family trauma.

Our Verdict:

Overall, we strongly recommend "Before the Storm" to fans of emotional fiction and family dramas. Chamberlain has crafted a compelling and thought-provoking story that will linger in the reader's mind long after the last page is read. The plot is full of surprises that keep the reader interested, and the characters are complex and relatable. While the emotional intensity may be too much for some readers, "Before the Storm" is a rewarding and satisfying read for those willing to delve into the depths of the human experience.

• Consider the Genre: Diane Chamberlain's books span a range of genres, so it's important to consider what you're in the mood for before making a purchase. 

• Check the Publication Date: Chamberlain has been writing for over three decades, so be sure to check the publication date before making a purchase. Some readers prefer to start with her earlier works and move forward in time, while others prefer to read her most recent releases first.

• Read Reviews: Before purchasing a Diane Chamberlain book, it's a good idea to read reviews from other readers to get a sense of what to expect. Amazon and Goodreads are great places to start.

• Consider Audiobooks: If you enjoy audiobooks, consider checking out Diane Chamberlain's novels in audio format. Many of her books are available in this format, and the narrators do an excellent job of bringing the characters to life.

• Try a Sampler: If you're not sure where to start with Diane Chamberlain's books, consider trying a sampler that features excerpts from several of her novels. This can give you a taste of her writing style and help you decide which book to read next.

What are some popular books by Diane Chamberlain?

The Silent Sister, Necessary Lies, The Stolen Marriage, and The Dream Daughter are some of Chamberlain's most widely read works.

What genres does Diane Chamberlain write in?

Chamberlain writes in numerous genres, such as suspense, mystery, historical fiction, and romance.

Are the books of Diane Chamberlain part of a series?

While some of Chamberlain's books are connected, she typically does not write in series. Each book tells a unique story.

Are the books of Diane Chamberlain appropriate for young readers?

Despite the fact that most of Chamberlain's books are marketed to adults, some of her novels may be suitable for mature young adult readers. Before making a purchase, it is advisable to read the book's summary and reviews.

What distinguishes Diane Chamberlain's writing?

Chamberlain is renowned for her intricate characters and engrossing plots that hold the attention of readers from beginning to end. Her works frequently explore the complexities of family relationships and difficult topics.

Diane Chamberlain is a gifted author whose diverse selection of novels appeals to readers of all genres. Whether you're in the mood for a suspenseful mystery or a heartwarming romance, Chamberlain's books will captivate you with their expert storytelling and well-developed characters. You can easily find the ideal Diane Chamberlain book to add to your reading list by following our buying guide and considering some frequently asked questions.