Get ready for a thrilling expansion of the 'We Were Liars' universe! With the release of E. Lockhart's new novel, 'We Fell Apart,' we're diving into a world of secrets and mysteries that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
But here's where it gets controversial... While this new book is set in the same world as the Sinclair family and their ultra-rich lifestyle, it introduces a fresh set of characters with their own unique stories to tell. Meet Matilda, who receives an invitation to spend her summer with her long-lost father, the reclusive artist Kingsley Cello. As she arrives at his seaside home, Hidden Beach, she discovers a cast of intriguing individuals: her half-brother Meer, a former child star named Brock, and the enigmatic Tatum. Together, they inhabit Kingsley's crumbling estate, a castle-like retreat that serves as the backdrop for their adventures.
And this is the part most people miss... 'We Fell Apart' offers a glimpse into the dark past of Cady's mother and aunts, which was explored in the sequel 'Family of Liars.' With Cadence Sinclair now aware of the tragic fire that took the lives of her beloved cousins and childhood sweetheart, the showrunners, Julie Plec and Carina Adly MacKenzie, are planning to delve into this complex family history.
In this exclusive interview, author E. Lockhart reveals the inspiration behind 'We Fell Apart' and teases its connection to Season 2 of Amazon's 'We Were Liars.'
'We Fell Apart' - A Standalone Story or a Connected Universe?
Lockhart shares, "I visited Martha's Vineyard and stumbled upon this breathtaking yet dilapidated property, once owned by architect Araldo Cossutta. The beauty and decay inspired me to write a Gothic beach story. Initially, I didn't intend for it to be connected to 'We Were Liars,' but as I worked on it, the worlds merged. It started as a standalone but evolved into a book within the same universe."
Exploring Beechwood Island from a Different Perspective
Matilda and her companions embark on a nocturnal adventure, trespassing on Beechwood Island, the site of a recent tragedy. They explore the tennis courts and the iconic beach, offering readers a unique glimpse into the world of 'We Were Liars.' Lockhart adds, "It's an opportunity to see this world through fresh eyes and uncover more Sinclair family secrets."
The Significance of Juxtaposition
Despite the physical proximity of the settings, 'We Fell Apart' presents a very different atmosphere from its predecessor. Lockhart explains, "In all three books, there's a kingdom. The first two books' kingdom is Beechwood Island, ruled by Harris Sinclair. It's an established kingdom. In 'We Fell Apart,' the kingdom is ruled by an absent patriarch, creating an alternative realm with distinct values. Yet, it's still about choosing whether to be a part of this kingdom and keeping its secrets."
Plot Twists and Connections
When asked about the incorporation of 'We Fell Apart' into Season 2, Lockhart reveals, "Julie Plec and Carina Adly MacKenzie have read the book, and I can't say much more. But rest assured, they have some tricks up their sleeves to surprise even those who've read 'Family of Liars.' They're finding new twists while staying true to the source material."
The Future of Cadence's Storyline
Lockhart emphasizes her role as a team member rather than a guide, stating, "Julie and Carina are the creative forces behind the show. They care deeply about the characters and aim to create an emotionally engaging Season 2, just like Season 1. They're committed to complex, nuanced storytelling without simplifying anything."
A New TV Series in the Works
E. Lockhart is also developing a TV series based on her book 'Genuine Fraud' for Amazon's Prime Video. Starring Rain Spencer from 'The Summer I Turned Pretty,' the series is in the early stages of development, with Sinead Daly, the showrunner for 'Midnight Sun,' attached to the project.
Get excited for more captivating stories and complex characters as the 'We Were Liars' universe continues to unfold!
