A Dive into Darkness: Review of Bad Liar by Alex Kava
There’s something alluring about stories set in the Louisiana bayou—a rich tapestry of mystery entwined with the deep, murky waters that feel like they hold countless secrets. When I picked up Bad Liar, the latest installment in Alex Kava’s Broussard and Fourcade series, I was immediately drawn in, not just by its gripping premise, but also by the promise of character growth for detectives Nick Fourcade and Annie Broussard. Having previously read A Thin Dark Line, I was curious to see how their dynamic would evolve, especially considering that they now share a life together—a five-year-old son certainly adds a layer of complexity!
In Bad Liar, we dive into the investigation of a male corpse, faceless and unnervingly marred by a gunshot wound, discovered in the haunting depths of the swamp. Fourcade’s relentless pursuit of justice leads him to uncover the mystifying disappearance of a local hero, while Broussard, returning to work after a traumatic episode, grapples with her own case involving a young addict. The intertwining of these narratives exposes a web of lies that feel achingly relevant, touching on harsh truths like the opioid crisis and domestic violence.
As I read, I appreciated Kava’s exploration of darker themes—especially the heartbreaking tale of Robbie Fontenot, a high school athlete whose promising future crumbles due to addiction. The treatment of these subjects, though heavy, was done thoughtfully, with Kava striking a balance that allowed for both gravitas and sensitivity. However, I found some descriptions—like that of a domestic abuse victim portrayed as a "cute, sassy little thing"—troubling, as they risk trivializing serious issues. Yet, the overall narrative was robust and self-aware.
Kava’s writing has improved since A Thin Dark Line, and I found the pacing in Bad Liar to be refreshingly swift. Gone are the lengthy passages that could sometimes drown a reader; here, we encounter a structurally tighter and more engaging story. The atmosphere of the bayou is still intrinsic to the narrative, yet it doesn’t overshadow the heart of the police procedural. The character development was impressive too—especially Fourcade, who feels more relatable and nuanced, all while managing to keep their son’s presence from overshadowing the main storyline.
While the identity of the murder victim was somewhat predictable, Kava masterfully maintained suspense throughout the twists and turns, culminating in a resolution that rewarded the journey. As suspenseful layers unraveled, I couldn’t help but admire Kava’s ability to weave strands of mystery seamlessly together.
Overall, I rated Bad Liar 4.5 stars (and rounded up, because who doesn’t love a satisfying read?). This book will resonate with fans of police procedurals and readers who appreciate well-crafted narratives that tackle complex themes. If you enjoy stories where characters wrestle with their past while navigating current complexities—and a skillfully plotted mystery—Bad Liar may just be your next favorite read.
As I close this chapter, I find myself yearning for the next installment in this series. Kava has left me contemplating the intertwined fates of her characters long after the last page was turned, reminding me once again of the power of a good story to linger in the mind and heart.
Thank you to NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Dutton for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. Bad Liar* is set to be published on September 24, 2024—mark your calendars!
Discover more about Bad Liar (Broussard and Fourcade, #3) on GoodReads >>