The Fine Art of Lying

How would you describe Clare as a character in the opening chapters? Did your perception of her change as the story unfolded?

How would you describe Clare and Jed’s marriage? In what ways do family expectations and power dynamics influence their relationship?

Early in the book, Tasha Wolfe claims that “desire is what makes the world go round” and she proudly admits she built her success on exploiting it in others. How does this idea shape the relationships and choices within the novel?

What do you think draws Clare into her affair with Gabriel?

The novel explores different forms of deception. In what ways does Clare deceive others, beyond the obvious in her affair with Gabriel? In what ways is she deceived throughout the story, both by other characters and by herself?

How does the world of art—its questions of authenticity, value, and interpretation—mirror the themes of the novel? What might the stolen painting, Longfin, represent?

How does the story portray wealth and privilege? In what ways do these factors shape the characters’ choices and consequences?

As suspicion shifts throughout the novel, how did your perception of Clare—and other characters—evolve? Did your sympathies and suspicions change over time?

Clare often believes she can control the situation. At what point do things begin to feel beyond her control? What does this suggest about the limits of control?

How does motherhood influence Clare’s decisions and priorities? Do you see her as fulfilled, constrained, or both?

Many of the characters operate in morally gray areas. Did you find yourself judging Clare’s actions, or understanding them? Why?

What lingering questions or ideas stayed with you after finishing the book?