Whether you’ve read the book or simply devoured the series, fans of Big Little Lies have reason to celebrate: Liane Moriarty is back with a highly anticipated sequel.
Titled Big Little Truths, the novel picks up ten years after the events of the original story and promising fresh drama and intrigue in Monterey, and a whole new perspective to tell it from. Here’s everything you need to know.
When will Big Little Truths be released?
The novel arrives on August 25, 2026.
What is it about?
Set a decade after the original events, Big Little Truths shifts the spotlight from the mothers of Monterey to their teenage children, who are now navigating the challenges of high school. While Madeline, Celeste, and the rest of the group remain central, it’s the younger generation — who you might remember as Ziggy, Amabella, Chloe, and their classmates — who now drive the narrative. It’s a distinct shift, given we met the children when they were starting school, but one we’re excited for nonetheless.
The book kicks off when a mysterious severed finger arriving at the school, sparking yet another investigation that will entangle both the parents and their children. This time, however, we’ll see the story unfold from a younger set of eyes.
Speaking to USA Today, Moriarty also confirmed that the character Renata would have a bigger role in the new book. “It’s all Laura Dern’s fault because she was so amazing as Renata, it was impossible for me to not give her a bigger role also in this book,” she said. “You couldn’t put Renata in a corner.” We’d tend to agree.
How the sequel differs from the original
While fans will recognise Moriarty’s signature suspenseful writing style, there are some key differences to take not of.
Firstly, the novel remains set in Australia, as opposed to the Californian backdrop of the HBO adaptation. Obviously, we’re guessing that the upcoming new season of the television show will stick to its Californian roots.
Additionally, in Big Little Truths, Madeline now has an additional child, Fred, who was cut from the TV series. We’re not sure how this will translate in the TV adaptation.
What does this mean for season three of Big Little Lies?
Only good things. A third season of the hit series has been in the works for some time now, and Moriarty has confirmed that Big Little Truths will make up the source material for the new show.
It will still have to be adapted for the screen, however, with Moriarty playing only a small role in the television side of things, and showrunner Francesca Sloane currently in the midst of writing the script.
Stay inspired, follow us.
