Book Review: The Embedded Lie, by Peter Dickson

reviewed by Golfer Pacific writer Peter Thornton.

Now this is how you write your debut novel.

The Embedded Lie, by Australian Peter Dickson, takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the complexities of friendship, betrayal, and the long-lasting effects of childhood trauma.

Set in a small Australian seaside town, the novel revolves around eight childhood friends — known as the Master’s Eight — who come together once a year for their traditional round of golf.

Caption: The front cover of the book titled The Embedded Lie, written by Australian Peter Dickson. The book was a great read, says Golfer Pacific writer Peter Thornton.

But what appears to be a simple reunion of privileged men hides a much darker undercurrent of lies and secrets, all of which are set to unravel under the watchful eye of a documentary film crew.

From the very beginning, Dickson draws readers into a world where the bonds of friendship are not as unbreakable as they seem.

The Master’s Eight, bound together by their shared history, soon discover that the lies they have carried with them for decades are far more dangerous than they had ever imagined.

The documentary crew, eager to capture the camaraderie and tradition of these men, becomes an unwitting vehicle for the revelation of long-buried secrets.

Through sharp wit and dark humour, The Embedded Lie explores the complexities of growing up, dealing with the sins of the past, and the painful journey of emotional growth.

Dickson’s characters are richly drawn, memorable and relatable. Each member of The Master’s Eight carries their own emotional baggage, with layered backstories that reveal how deeply the influence of their parents has shaped their adult lives.

The golf course, a seemingly innocent setting, becomes a metaphor for the fragile nature of their relationships. It’s the place where moments of nostalgia and humour give way to emotional breakdowns and startling revelations.

The narrative style blends light-hearted moments with intense, heart-wrenching scenes, which is where Dickson truly shines. His ability to inject humour into some of the most difficult moments gives the novel a unique emotional depth, making readers laugh and cry in equal measure. As the Master’s Eight confront their past, the novel asks the question: can these friendships survive the weight of their own embedded lies?

What makes The Embedded Lie stand out is its compelling examination of how trauma, both personal and familial (similar to that in a family), reverberates through the years. It’s a story about the lasting impact of childhood experiences, the reckoning that comes with adulthood and the unexpected strength of enduring relationships.

The novel is well paced. It builds suspense as each secret is uncovered, while the dynamic between the characters remains both engaging and tragic.

Dickson delivers a gripping and emotionally charged tale of friendship, betrayal and the difficult process of facing one’s past. With unforgettable characters, rich humour and a deep sense of emotional honesty, The Embedded Lie is a standout read that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.

It you love the game of golf and friendships and rivalries forged on the links then you’ll love this wild and relatable tale.