Necessary Lies books in order

Q: "How many books are in the Necessary Lies series?"

"There are two books in the Necessary Lies series, published in 2013."

Q: "What is the first book in the Necessary Lies series?"

"The first book in the Necessary Lies series is The First Lie, published in 2013."

Q: "Is The First Lie a prequel to Necessary Lies?"

"Yes, The First Lie is a short prequel novella that introduces the main characters before the events of Necessary Lies. It can be read first for extra background, or after Necessary Lies for a deeper look at the characters' earlier lives."

Reading order

#	Title	Published	Author	Buy on Amazon
1	The First Lie	2013	Diane Chamberlain	Buy
2	Necessary Lies	2013	Diane Chamberlain	Buy

Necessary Lies (2013) is set in 1960s rural North Carolina during the state’s real eugenics sterilization program. The novel follows a young social worker and a teenage girl whose family is caught up in the program. Chamberlain based the story on historical events, and the result is one of her most emotionally difficult books.

The First Lie (2013) is a short prequel that introduces the characters before the main novel begins. It gives readers a chance to know them before the heavier material starts. Together, the two books make a strong case for historical fiction that refuses to look away from uncomfortable truths.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many books are in the Necessary Lies series?

There are two books in the Necessary Lies series, published in 2013.

What is the first book in the Necessary Lies series?

The first book in the Necessary Lies series is The First Lie, published in 2013.

Is The First Lie a prequel to Necessary Lies?

Yes, The First Lie is a short prequel novella that introduces the main characters before the events of Necessary Lies. It can be read first for extra background, or after Necessary Lies for a deeper look at the characters’ earlier lives.

Reading order#

Frequently Asked Questions

Reading order