So, for some reason, I want to think that assensing can be used to tell if someone is lying, but I don't see that in the book. Am I a complete nutter, or is it possible?

Well with enough hits, someone will have to quote the Assensing Table, I don't have it in front of me at the moment, but you can see emotional ratings. So if they are a good enough liar it might not register, but if not maybe some apprehension, or maybe you can tell if they are holding something back.

Actually, it's just 1 hit, 'general emotional state (happy, sad, etc.)'. There's no better version at higher hits. Use a spell for better information.

Thanks for the info. I'm writing a fan fic and trying to decide the best way to reveal some info to the main character. This will be helpful.