Surrounded by Liars: How to Stop Half-Truths, Deception, and Gaslighting from Ruining Your Life is the newest book in the Surrounded by Idiots series by bestselling author Thomas Erikson. The author shows readers how to identify and deal with the liars in their life using proven behavioral science methods. The intent is for readers to discern the truth from personal encounters with people and the news media so that they can protect themselves from deception and insincerity, leading to a calmer life.
The majority of the book was common knowledge to most readers, although it was presented in an interesting, easy to understand way. The author explained why not being 100% truthful (lying in various forms) is necessary in everyday life, both personal and professional. He reveals who is most likely to lie, and which situations generate the most deception. The discussions of his other books in the Surrounded by Idiots series were excessive, but the last part of his book was the most interesting and the new-to-me information. Readers who enjoy the work of Malcolm Gladwell and the Freakonomics guys will enjoy Surrounded by Liars.

The audiobook is skillfully narrated by David John, who is easy to understand.

I received an Advance Review Copy (ARC) from NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Surrounded by Liars by Thomas Erikson is an insightful and practical guide for anyone tired of navigating deception in their everyday life. Erikson, known for his engaging style and straightforward behavioral science, brings his four-color personality model back in this follow-up to Surrounded by Idiots, equipping readers to better recognize and respond to dishonesty. Through relatable scenarios and Erikson’s trademark humor, the book offers strategies to protect yourself from lies and manipulation, whether at work, in social settings, or when assessing the constant stream of information we get from media. With clear advice on spotting red flags and maintaining peace of mind in an increasingly complex world, this book is a reassuring companion for anyone seeking to build trust in a world filled with mixed messages.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC in audiobook format.

Thomas Erikson’s latest audiobook, “Surrounded by Liars,” is a compelling exploration of deception, however, some of the early info (at least the first 6 chapters) provided common sense info and outdated info, odd because in our current political climate we have liars in the highest political US roles who have been undermining our trust and faith (with lies) in everything from voting to how our top doctors should have handled the pandemic!

I found this audiobook provided a few ideas/tools I can use in my work and home life, however it was too simplistic and there are better (more advanced books on this subject, most of us who purchase books of this type are well aware of the different kinds of liars, ONE short chapter with current examples from the past decade (blended with supporting scientific information) should replace the first 6 chapters).

Narrated by David John, this audiobook offers some practical advice and Erikson’s signature humor, making it informative yet engaging.

Erikson delves into the psychology of lying, using his well-known four-color behavioral model to help listeners identify and deal with the liars in their lives.

This book is structured to provide actionable strategies for recognizing and responding to deceit, regardless of where you encounter it.

Each chapter builds on the previous one, creating a comprehensive guide for understanding and combating dishonesty.

David John’s narration is a highlight of this audiobook. His clear and expressive voice brings Erikson’s insights to life, making complex psychological concepts accessible and easy to follow.

John’s pacing is excellent, maintaining listener interest throughout the nearly 11-hour runtime.

Erikson’s writing is sophisticated and approachable. He balances scientific explanations with relatable anecdotes, ensuring that the content is educational and enjoyable. His use of humor lightens the heavy subject matter, making the book a pleasant listen despite its serious themes.

Although I highlighted a few problems with this book, I did find it interesting and, I just liked the last half of the book better than the last half.

“Surrounded by Liars” is a resource for those looking to understand human behavior and protect themselves from deception, and are new to the subject matter.

Erikson’s expertise in behavioral science shines through once again in this enjoyable book.

I like to figure out why people do what they do, so I enjoyed how Erikson explored the different topics that surround why people lie.

I learned a lot about this topic and glad that this non-fiction book was presented in an easy-to-understand way! It was not too "sciency" and the narrator was great! It gives a broad definition of what encompasses a lie and the different ways individuals lie and so much more.

Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this gifted copy.

Thanks to NetGalley for the Audio ARC!

2.75/5 stars

This was just okay....it spent most of the book talking about the types of lies, who is most likely to lie, and the situations that garner the most lies....all of which was fairly common sense. And another good portion was spent referencing Erikson's other books...which is fine some but this was enough that it was a turn off. The last 15% or so was really quite interesting, and honestly I enjoyed the appendix more than the book itself.

I think if you need a super easy non-fiction for any reason, this is a good candidate - but if you want something really impactful or thought-provoking....keep moving.

Well written and well narrated, with a wealth of information packed into this book.
"Surrounded by Liars" was one I enjoyed as an audiobook, but not certain if I would have liked it as much in book form.
The narrator did a great job to immerse the listener into the title and overall an through provoking read.