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Review of Plausible Liars
Posted: 31 Jan 2024, 14:22
by Stephanie Runyon
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Plausible Liars" by Lin Wilder.]

5 out of 5 stars
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“It is best to first understand the consequences when seeking to rescue another person.” Father John.
Dr. Lindsey McCall and investigative reporter Kate Townsend are facing federal charges for committing a hate crime. A year before court proceedings, Lindsey meets Joey when he volunteers to help with the dogs at California Polytechnic State University. Joey asks Lindsey to help him detransition because he doesn’t want to continue transitioning. Unfortunately, Joey’s treatment with puberty blockers and testosterone injections began eight and a half years ago. Lindsey agrees to help the teen. Meanwhile, Kate has chosen to investigate and write a series of articles about transgender policies toward children. When Rich asks Lindsey to consult Father John about whether she should remain involved with Joey’s medical treatment, Father John advises her to visit Kate. While Lindsey is away, Joey is rushed to the hospital and is in a coma.
Lin Wilder’s
Plausible Liars is an inspirational story tackling one of the current social issues seen on television everywhere. Is it okay to take a child seriously when they say they want to be a girl when they are a biological male? The story addresses the practices of hormone therapy on children and the compelling account of a teen wishing to detransition. Are you transphobic and guilty of a hate crime if you disagree with preschoolers changing their gender at school without parental consent? Kate challenges this with her article, Creating Chemical Eunuchs: Corrupting America’s Children.
The factual pieces of the story are at the end of the book. Wilder lists her sources for supporting and opposing gender transition. The positive practices of Catholicism and the presence of Father John influence the choices of several people, including the defense attorney team. The prosecution addresses religion negatively, with reasons supporting their argument. I found every angle explored on both sides, so I understand what drives them. The details of this unpredictable story are vivid. Every moment portrays the tension felt by everyone. I found nothing to dislike about this story.
I rate
Plausible Liars five out of five stars. Professional editing was evident in the book. The emotions of everyone are relatable, and the conversations are expressed with passionate conviction. I found the support from their families and Father John admirable. The motivations of both women are in great detail.
I recommend
Plausible Liars to readers who like books based on faith. Catholicism and transgender ideology are discussed in detail and may not appeal to readers who are not open to either topic. Should children be allowed to choose their gender? Should school teachers provide gender-affirming care without parental consent? Is it a hate crime to help a person detransition? If faced with a conflict, what are you going to do? Would you ignore it, or would you actively make a choice that could be life-altering?
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Re: Review of Plausible Liars
Posted: 05 Feb 2024, 09:16
by Alex Lynn
This book seems like a thought-provoking and emotionally charged story addressing current social issues surrounding gender transition and children. The inclusion of diverse perspectives, from the characters' motivations to the exploration of Catholicism's influence, adds depth to the narrative. The author's attention to detail and well-researched factual components enhance the story's credibility. Your positive review, noting professional editing and relatable emotions, reinforces its quality. The book's exploration of faith, Catholicism, and transgender ideology may cater specifically to readers open to these discussions. Your questions at the end invite contemplation on relevant societal dilemmas. Overall, it appears to be a compelling and insightful read.
Re: Review of Plausible Liars
Posted: 05 Feb 2024, 20:07
by María Andrea Fernández Sepúlveda
I'm a Catholic (at least, I was raised as one and attended Catholic school), and I think we can reach a healthy middle. Preschoolers can express their gender choices in other non-permanent ways. However, permanent decisions should be for adults and under the guidance of a qualified psychologist or expert. That's my opinion, but it seems like a very interesting read. Thank you for your review. It must be really hard to write about such a controversial topic in a sensitive and respectful way.
Re: Review of Plausible Liars
Posted: 06 Feb 2024, 09:10
by Chunnu Muduli
This book sounds like a thought-provoking narrative on the complex issues surrounding gender transition, faith, and parental consent. I'm curious to delve into this socially relevant story.
Re: Review of Plausible Liars
Posted: 07 Feb 2024, 01:20
by Shinshinshin
The review provides a positive assessment of the book "Plausible Liars" by Lin Wilder. It explores the complex social issue of transgender policies and transitioning among children. The review highlights the vivid storytelling, well-developed characters, and the author's inclusion of factual sources. The presence of Catholicism and Father John's influence in the book is also appreciated. However, the reviewer mentions that readers who are not open to discussions on Catholicism and transgender ideology may not find the book appealing. Overall, the review rates "Plausible Liars" five out of five stars and recommends it to readers interested in faith-based books and thought-provoking topics.
Re: Review of Plausible Liars
Posted: 07 Feb 2024, 05:26
by Stephanie Runyon
María Andrea Fernández Sepúlveda wrote: ↑05 Feb 2024, 20:07
I'm a Catholic (at least, I was raised as one and attended Catholic school), and I think we can reach a healthy middle. Preschoolers can express their gender choices in other non-permanent ways. However, permanent decisions should be for adults and under the guidance of a qualified psychologist or expert. That's my opinion, but it seems like a very interesting read. Thank you for your review. It must be really hard to write about such a controversial topic in a sensitive and respectful way.
I believe there are only 2 genders. I also believe that discussing gender should be something done between parents and their children. If that comes to a wall, then involving a psychologist who is qualified to discuss gender dysphoria and what issues may result from transitioning would be the next step. This is an issue I am dealing with regarding my 15-year-old daughter choosing to be gender fluid and using the pronouns they/them. She lives with her father and stepmother, allowing her to continue this way. I try not to cause conflict and only use her name when speaking with her so the pronoun issue doesn't happen. As for Catholics, I am a non-denominational Christian and I think there are good and bad things about each organized religion. I try to live my life to the best that I can and ask forgiveness for any sins I may have. I follow the Bible and recognize only one God. I don't pray to saints or the Virgin Mary because I don't believe that they are capable of doing anything God hasn't already claimed. In a way, I see that as lifting them up as a type of deity. I may be wrong but I am not well-educated on that aith.
Re: Review of Plausible Liars
Posted: 08 Feb 2024, 08:34
by María Andrea Fernández Sepúlveda
Stephanie Runyon wrote: ↑07 Feb 2024, 05:26
María Andrea Fernández Sepúlveda wrote: ↑05 Feb 2024, 20:07
I'm a Catholic (at least, I was raised as one and attended Catholic school), and I think we can reach a healthy middle. Preschoolers can express their gender choices in other non-permanent ways. However, permanent decisions should be for adults and under the guidance of a qualified psychologist or expert. That's my opinion, but it seems like a very interesting read. Thank you for your review. It must be really hard to write about such a controversial topic in a sensitive and respectful way.
I believe there are only 2 genders. I also believe that discussing gender should be something done between parents and their children. If that comes to a wall, then involving a psychologist who is qualified to discuss gender dysphoria and what issues may result from transitioning would be the next step. This is an issue I am dealing with regarding my 15-year-old daughter choosing to be gender fluid and using the pronouns they/them. She lives with her father and stepmother, allowing her to continue this way. I try not to cause conflict and only use her name when speaking with her so the pronoun issue doesn't happen. As for Catholics, I am a non-denominational Christian and I think there are good and bad things about each organized religion. I try to live my life to the best that I can and ask forgiveness for any sins I may have. I follow the Bible and recognize only one God. I don't pray to saints or the Virgin Mary because I don't believe that they are capable of doing anything God hasn't already claimed. In a way, I see that as lifting them up as a type of deity. I may be wrong but I am not well-educated on that aith.
I don't think you are wrong; I know many Protestants believe that, and that's fine. I honestly don't really understand much about gender fluidity, but I do hope that doesn't strain your relationship with your daughter. Moms can be a woman's (or young woman's) best friend.
Re: Review of Plausible Liars
Posted: 08 Feb 2024, 18:54
by Pranav Dewangan
The exploration of complex issues like transgender policies and detransitioning makes the story both thought-provoking and relevant. The detailed examination of perspectives from both sides, combined with the emotional depth of the characters, promises a gripping read. The fact that the author backs the narrative with credible sources adds an extra layer of authenticity. Excited to dive into a book that doesn't shy away from tough questions, offering a nuanced portrayal of faith and ideology. This review has me eager to engage with the story's depth and complexity!
Re: Review of Plausible Liars
Posted: 09 Feb 2024, 04:39
by Stephanie Runyon
María Andrea Fernández Sepúlveda wrote: ↑08 Feb 2024, 08:34
Stephanie Runyon wrote: ↑07 Feb 2024, 05:26
María Andrea Fernández Sepúlveda wrote: ↑05 Feb 2024, 20:07
I'm a Catholic (at least, I was raised as one and attended Catholic school), and I think we can reach a healthy middle. Preschoolers can express their gender choices in other non-permanent ways. However, permanent decisions should be for adults and under the guidance of a qualified psychologist or expert. That's my opinion, but it seems like a very interesting read. Thank you for your review. It must be really hard to write about such a controversial topic in a sensitive and respectful way.
I believe there are only 2 genders. I also believe that discussing gender should be something done between parents and their children. If that comes to a wall, then involving a psychologist who is qualified to discuss gender dysphoria and what issues may result from transitioning would be the next step. This is an issue I am dealing with regarding my 15-year-old daughter choosing to be gender fluid and using the pronouns they/them. She lives with her father and stepmother, allowing her to continue this way. I try not to cause conflict and only use her name when speaking with her so the pronoun issue doesn't happen. As for Catholics, I am a non-denominational Christian and I think there are good and bad things about each organized religion. I try to live my life to the best that I can and ask forgiveness for any sins I may have. I follow the Bible and recognize only one God. I don't pray to saints or the Virgin Mary because I don't believe that they are capable of doing anything God hasn't already claimed. In a way, I see that as lifting them up as a type of deity. I may be wrong but I am not well-educated on that faith.
I don't think you are wrong; I know many Protestants believe that, and that's fine. I honestly don't really understand much about gender fluidity, but I do hope that doesn't strain your relationship with your daughter. Moms can be a woman's (or young woman's) best friend.
Sadly, it is strained, but that is more for parental alienation issues than it is with her thoughts on identity. I don't understand why people are not comfortable being themselves. My issue is that it forces me to identify a person's gender when speaking to them. It's also a violation of my First Amendment rights as an American. Freedom of speech allows me to speak and write what I really believe. I will admit that I have been guilty of offending some people. However, in the case of this book, Lindsey was helping Joey because that was what Joey wanted.
Re: Review of Plausible Liars
Posted: 09 Feb 2024, 17:58
by María Andrea Fernández Sepúlveda
Stephanie Runyon wrote: ↑09 Feb 2024, 04:39
María Andrea Fernández Sepúlveda wrote: ↑08 Feb 2024, 08:34
Stephanie Runyon wrote: ↑07 Feb 2024, 05:26
I believe there are only 2 genders. I also believe that discussing gender should be something done between parents and their children. If that comes to a wall, then involving a psychologist who is qualified to discuss gender dysphoria and what issues may result from transitioning would be the next step. This is an issue I am dealing with regarding my 15-year-old daughter choosing to be gender fluid and using the pronouns they/them. She lives with her father and stepmother, allowing her to continue this way. I try not to cause conflict and only use her name when speaking with her so the pronoun issue doesn't happen. As for Catholics, I am a non-denominational Christian and I think there are good and bad things about each organized religion. I try to live my life to the best that I can and ask forgiveness for any sins I may have. I follow the Bible and recognize only one God. I don't pray to saints or the Virgin Mary because I don't believe that they are capable of doing anything God hasn't already claimed. In a way, I see that as lifting them up as a type of deity. I may be wrong but I am not well-educated on that faith.
I don't think you are wrong; I know many Protestants believe that, and that's fine. I honestly don't really understand much about gender fluidity, but I do hope that doesn't strain your relationship with your daughter. Moms can be a woman's (or young woman's) best friend.
Sadly, it is strained, but that is more for parental alienation issues than it is with her thoughts on identity. I don't understand why people are not comfortable being themselves. My issue is that it forces me to identify a person's gender when speaking to them. It's also a violation of my First Amendment rights as an American. Freedom of speech allows me to speak and write what I really believe. I will admit that I have been guilty of offending some people. However, in the case of this book, Lindsey was helping Joey because that was what Joey wanted.
Some people, such as Joey in this book, do regret transitioning. It's a huge decision and it's important to talk about the cases like the one presented in this book that don't have a happy ending.
Re: Review of Plausible Liars
Posted: 10 Feb 2024, 06:35
by JWrites Jwrites
The plot is further deepened by the incorporation of Father John and the virtues of Catholicism as determining elements in the decisions made by the protagonists. The reviewer recognizes the narrative's depth and consideration for the way it explores different viewpoints on gender-affirming treatment provided to transgender people without getting permission from their parents.
Re: Review of Plausible Liars
Posted: 11 Feb 2024, 03:33
by Azaz Raja
The narrative delves into intricate themes like transgender policies and detransitioning, presenting a thought-provoking and timely exploration. With perspectives from both sides and well-developed characters, the story promises depth and relevance. The author's inclusion of credible sources adds authenticity to the narrative, making it even more compelling. The book's willingness to confront tough questions and explore faith and ideology in a nuanced manner is commendable. This review leaves me eager to engage with the depth and complexity of the story.
Re: Review of Plausible Liars
Posted: 21 Feb 2024, 07:14
by Saliha Hussain
The story delves into complex topics such as transgender policies and detransitioning, offering a timely and thought-provoking exploration. With viewpoints represented from multiple angles and characters that are intricately developed, the narrative boasts depth and contemporary relevance. The author's incorporation of credible sources enhances the authenticity of the story, elevating its impact. The book's courage in addressing challenging inquiries and examining faith and ideology with nuance is admirable. Overall, this review sparks anticipation for the opportunity to engage with the narrative's depth and intricacy.
Re: Review of Plausible Liars
Posted: 04 Mar 2024, 21:33
by Anil Baade
Thank you for your valuable insights about this book. You've explained about the book very well. I'll definitely add this to my reading list
Re: Review of Plausible Liars
Posted: 05 Mar 2024, 05:26
by Sweeter Parker
This books seems intriguing and very thought provoking. I see the book struck a few nerves and has caused a debate within the comments. This makes even more curious.