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The Truth #1
Tempting Josh
This is an alternate cover edition: ASIN: B00YT7R16G
Sometimes second chances come with a price.
The last thing I need in my life is a man.
Been there, done that. Have the vindictive ex and the lawyer bills to prove it.
I definitely shouldn’t be noticing Josh Devereaux’s smile. Or his abs.
But he’s persistent, I’ll give him that. And it’s just one night. Or at least it was supposed to be.
And the question isn’t if you’ll pay, but how much.
What are the odds of Ella Ingraham walking into a bar in Horatio, Arkansas? Pretty high, apparently, because here she is. Smiling. Flirting. Look damn good in those Daisy Dukes.
I shouldn’t even be talking to her, let alone asking her to dinner and thinking about dessert. But she doesn’t know who I am or what I’ve done. If I’m careful, I can keep it that way.
Sometimes second chances come with a price.
The last thing I need in my life is a man.
Been there, done that. Have the vindictive ex and the lawyer bills to prove it.
I definitely shouldn’t be noticing Josh Devereaux’s smile. Or his abs.
But he’s persistent, I’ll give him that. And it’s just one night. Or at least it was supposed to be.
And the question isn’t if you’ll pay, but how much.
What are the odds of Ella Ingraham walking into a bar in Horatio, Arkansas? Pretty high, apparently, because here she is. Smiling. Flirting. Look damn good in those Daisy Dukes.
I shouldn’t even be talking to her, let alone asking her to dinner and thinking about dessert. But she doesn’t know who I am or what I’ve done. If I’m careful, I can keep it that way.
Kindle Edition
First published June 22, 2015
About the author
Brenda St. John Brown
20 books500 followersBrenda is a USA Today bestselling author living in the English countryside. Originally from New York, she's lived in the UK long enough to gain dual citizenship, but still doesn’t understand Celsius. However, she has learned the appropriate use of the word “pants”. And how to order a proper bacon bap/barm/buttie. Because, well, bacon.
Brenda writes contemporary romance to make you giggle and swoon. When she’s not writing, she enjoys hiking, running and reading. In theory, she also enjoys cooking, but it’s more that she enjoys eating and, try as she might, she can’t live on Doritos alone.
For more information or to connect with Brenda visit http://brendastjohnbrown.com/
Brenda writes contemporary romance to make you giggle and swoon. When she’s not writing, she enjoys hiking, running and reading. In theory, she also enjoys cooking, but it’s more that she enjoys eating and, try as she might, she can’t live on Doritos alone.
For more information or to connect with Brenda visit http://brendastjohnbrown.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
December 30, 2015
So it’s my opinion that not enough of you have read Brenda St. John Brown’s work yet. Swimming to Tokyo was among my favorite reads last year so I was chomping at the bit to get my hands on her latest, Lies We Live.
When Brenda asked me to read it I got all excited and a little bit scared if I’m being honest… that’s how much I loved Swimming To Tokyo… could she live up to the expectations I have for her with her new story?
The short answer to that question is a resounding YES.
I honestly was barely able to put this down. I started it at bedtime on Sunday and I had to make myself put it aside at 56% because I knew I’d be crap at work if I kept going. But I wanted to keep reading, and if I hadn’t had the previous week off, I just may have considered calling in sick and finishing this story!
I’ll be honest, Lies We Live is filled with DRAMA. Ella Ingraham is a best-selling author who was sued by her ex for the death of their stillborn baby. See … Drama and incredibly sad drama at that. But I’m telling you, it all works. Now, legally, I don’t know if this would ever fly, but I didn’t even care I was so entranced with the characters that Brenda has created.
Ella ends up in a tiny town in Arkansas and has an immediate connection with the town golden boy – Josh Deveraux. Josh is a little cagey from the start… you know he’s keeping secrets, you just don’t know exactly why or to what extent.
All I could think was I had to know everything and that kept the pages turning and the story moving.
I’ll be honest though, it wasn’t complete perfection for me… I struggled with a few things. First, the timeline and flashbacks. Admittedly, I always struggle with the type of story that goes back and forth on a random timeline. I struggle with placing certain things and I find that the story flow doesn’t work that well for me when this happens in a story. I completely understand why this was done in this case… we had to learn about the relationships and the full story somehow, I just struggled to stay in the flow of the story when I had to stop and try and place the chapter on a timeline.
Also – I have to say that I was hoping that Josh would come clean… especially since Ella’s life is basically an open book due to the press and coverage of her trial, and I got a little frustrated at the piecemeal way that he revealed some things.
The cliffhanger had me wide-eyed and searching for more pages. I had a feeling the end was going to go where it went based on a clue earlier in the story, but I’m DYING to get my hands on the second book here. Also – I wouldn’t mind a bit more … ahem … sexy times. But that could totally be me, I’m kinda dirty like that.
Brenda St. John Brown creates amazingly layered & complex characters and if you’re like me, you’ll love getting to know each one… digging deeper and reading faster to get to know them better.
Okay, so if you haven’t read Swimming to Tokyo, GET ON IT. Read that while you wait for Lies We Live and then open this one as soon as it releases so we can chat about that ending … YOU GUYS THAT ENDING.
Thank you so much to the author for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest thoughts… this did not influence my opinion in any way.
When Brenda asked me to read it I got all excited and a little bit scared if I’m being honest… that’s how much I loved Swimming To Tokyo… could she live up to the expectations I have for her with her new story?
The short answer to that question is a resounding YES.
I honestly was barely able to put this down. I started it at bedtime on Sunday and I had to make myself put it aside at 56% because I knew I’d be crap at work if I kept going. But I wanted to keep reading, and if I hadn’t had the previous week off, I just may have considered calling in sick and finishing this story!
I’ll be honest, Lies We Live is filled with DRAMA. Ella Ingraham is a best-selling author who was sued by her ex for the death of their stillborn baby. See … Drama and incredibly sad drama at that. But I’m telling you, it all works. Now, legally, I don’t know if this would ever fly, but I didn’t even care I was so entranced with the characters that Brenda has created.
Ella ends up in a tiny town in Arkansas and has an immediate connection with the town golden boy – Josh Deveraux. Josh is a little cagey from the start… you know he’s keeping secrets, you just don’t know exactly why or to what extent.
All I could think was I had to know everything and that kept the pages turning and the story moving.
I’ll be honest though, it wasn’t complete perfection for me… I struggled with a few things. First, the timeline and flashbacks. Admittedly, I always struggle with the type of story that goes back and forth on a random timeline. I struggle with placing certain things and I find that the story flow doesn’t work that well for me when this happens in a story. I completely understand why this was done in this case… we had to learn about the relationships and the full story somehow, I just struggled to stay in the flow of the story when I had to stop and try and place the chapter on a timeline.
Also – I have to say that I was hoping that Josh would come clean… especially since Ella’s life is basically an open book due to the press and coverage of her trial, and I got a little frustrated at the piecemeal way that he revealed some things.
The cliffhanger had me wide-eyed and searching for more pages. I had a feeling the end was going to go where it went based on a clue earlier in the story, but I’m DYING to get my hands on the second book here. Also – I wouldn’t mind a bit more … ahem … sexy times. But that could totally be me, I’m kinda dirty like that.
Brenda St. John Brown creates amazingly layered & complex characters and if you’re like me, you’ll love getting to know each one… digging deeper and reading faster to get to know them better.
Okay, so if you haven’t read Swimming to Tokyo, GET ON IT. Read that while you wait for Lies We Live and then open this one as soon as it releases so we can chat about that ending … YOU GUYS THAT ENDING.
Thank you so much to the author for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest thoughts… this did not influence my opinion in any way.
Want to read
February 8, 2018💝FREE on Amazon today (2/8/2018)! 💝
Blurb:
Sometimes second chances come with a price.
The last thing I need in my life is a man.
Been there, done that. Have the vindictive ex and the lawyer bills to prove it.
I definitely shouldn’t be noticing Josh Devereaux’s smile. Or his abs.
But he’s persistent, I’ll give him that. And it’s just one night. Or at least it was supposed to be.
And the question isn’t if you’ll pay, but how much.
What are the odds of Ella Ingraham walking into a bar in Horatio, Arkansas? Pretty high, apparently, because here she is. Smiling. Flirting. Look damn good in those Daisy Dukes.
I shouldn’t even be talking to her, let alone asking her to dinner and thinking about dessert. But she doesn’t know who I am or what I’ve done. If I’m careful, I can keep it that way.
Blurb:
Sometimes second chances come with a price.
The last thing I need in my life is a man.
Been there, done that. Have the vindictive ex and the lawyer bills to prove it.
I definitely shouldn’t be noticing Josh Devereaux’s smile. Or his abs.
But he’s persistent, I’ll give him that. And it’s just one night. Or at least it was supposed to be.
And the question isn’t if you’ll pay, but how much.
What are the odds of Ella Ingraham walking into a bar in Horatio, Arkansas? Pretty high, apparently, because here she is. Smiling. Flirting. Look damn good in those Daisy Dukes.
I shouldn’t even be talking to her, let alone asking her to dinner and thinking about dessert. But she doesn’t know who I am or what I’ve done. If I’m careful, I can keep it that way.
June 19, 2015
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review
Last year I read Swimming to Tokyo by this author and really enjoyed it. So when I heard about this book I jumped on the chance to read and review it. One look at that cover and the blurb and I was sold. I don't read a lot of romantic suspense books, but I am hoping to read more in this genre and this book just sounded so good and intriguing. I really enjoyed this book, it was a great romance, an intriguing plot and a past that still plays a role today. I just wanted to keep reading, the story intrigued me from the first page and I just had to know more. I had a hard time putting down this book and every time I was thinking one more chapter and then ofcourse ended up reading more than one.
So it is a romantic suspense and while I haven't read a lot of books in this genre to compare to, I felt like the mix of romance and suspense was really done well. The two aspects were intertwined together. The romance is a huge part of this book, but the suspense elements are always there, more in the background, but always present. The book is told mainly from Ella her point of view, with a few chapters from Josh his point of view and a few chapters that take place in the past. At each chapter start it is clearly mentioned who's pov it is and in which time it takes place, so it was easy to know who was narrating and when it was. While normally I don't like flashbacks chapters as I feel like they take me out of the story, here I felt they complemented the story. It's like we know in theory what happens with Ella and Eric and their baby, we don't know exactly what happened from Ella her point of view and that's what we get in the flashback chapters and I felt it was really valuable and made me understand Ella better. It added to the story and gave the pieces we were missing and what really happened. So this way of telling the story really worked for me.
I almost instantly liked Ella. She has been gone through a lot, but she's still standing. She tries to keep a low profile, but can't help but be drawn into a conversation with Josh and it was nice to slowly see her let her guards down, but the past really kept haunting her. She always keeps her guard on and can't really let herself fall in love as she feels like she doesn't know enough about Josh. Oh and she is an author and it was really fun to read a book about a main character who is an author. I almost felt like her book series where real as I could so easily imagine them to be. Josh was a nice guy as well, although I have a feeling I know what he is hiding and I am not sure how that makes me feel about him. They both have a past, a dark past, but they have changed now, but it feels like that past is still chasing them. Beside keeping a few secrets there is also a lot that he does share and he slowly draws Ella into his world.
There are a few side characters who also play a role. I especially liked Si and Trudy, they are friends of Josh and quickly become friends of Ella as well. They are great friends, being there for Josh, but also not afraid to give some advice when they think it's necessary. Then there is Eric, Ella her ex -boyfriend and he was such a despicable human being, I can't believe he actually went to court about their stillborn baby and convinced the world Ella had murdered their son. And that while Ella was being nice and kept giving their relationship a try, while she should've left long ago. There are also two younger girls which were a big fan of Ella her books and that made for some fun conversations and book related scenes. The side characters were done well and gave a cozy feel to the small town setting. The small town setting was also done well, it's clearly a town were everybody knows everyone and get's into other people their business.
The romance is really done well. Elle and Josh meet and it's clear there is something between them, there is an instant attraction, but it quickly becomes clear there is more between them as well. The chemistry between them is really done well and I knew they would end up in bed eventually. But there is much more to their romance than attraction, their feelings grow slowly but surely. And there is an interesting mix of scenes where they are getting to know each other and combined with scenes about trying to find out each other their secrets. At times it felt like Ella focussed a bit too much on finding out Josh secrets, although I did understand her as basically everyone knew her story. And I am pretty sure Josh has a secret. While the chemistry between them is really hot, the actual action happens behind closed doors, which I have to admit made me a little bit grumpy as I was curious how the sex scenes would be, when they finally gave into their attraction.
I had thought that while this book was part of a series each book would feature on a different couple, but when the end was nearing and there was no end in sight when it came to the story I realized my mistake, right before the cliffhanger ending hit me. And what an ending it is, it was so abrupt and wants me to have the next book now as I have to know what happens after that. It was an original cliffhanger though and one that makes me a bit scared for the next book, but also really curious and wondering if Josh his secret will be revealed then.
To conclude: I really enjoyed this book, the romance and suspense elements are woven nicely together. The story is told from both Ella and Josh their point of view, with some chapters taking place in the past, which I liked. Ella and Josh both were different people in their past and while they try to escape their past, their past is still very much a part of them. The romance is really well done, with an instant connection, but there is also more than that and they slowly get to know each other. I am a bit grumpy the sex scenes where behind closed doors as their chemistry was so hot. The side characters and the setting make the story come alive. The ending took me by surprise and ending in a well done cliffhanger. I can't wait for the next book in the series and see how this story continues.
Last year I read Swimming to Tokyo by this author and really enjoyed it. So when I heard about this book I jumped on the chance to read and review it. One look at that cover and the blurb and I was sold. I don't read a lot of romantic suspense books, but I am hoping to read more in this genre and this book just sounded so good and intriguing. I really enjoyed this book, it was a great romance, an intriguing plot and a past that still plays a role today. I just wanted to keep reading, the story intrigued me from the first page and I just had to know more. I had a hard time putting down this book and every time I was thinking one more chapter and then ofcourse ended up reading more than one.
So it is a romantic suspense and while I haven't read a lot of books in this genre to compare to, I felt like the mix of romance and suspense was really done well. The two aspects were intertwined together. The romance is a huge part of this book, but the suspense elements are always there, more in the background, but always present. The book is told mainly from Ella her point of view, with a few chapters from Josh his point of view and a few chapters that take place in the past. At each chapter start it is clearly mentioned who's pov it is and in which time it takes place, so it was easy to know who was narrating and when it was. While normally I don't like flashbacks chapters as I feel like they take me out of the story, here I felt they complemented the story. It's like we know in theory what happens with Ella and Eric and their baby, we don't know exactly what happened from Ella her point of view and that's what we get in the flashback chapters and I felt it was really valuable and made me understand Ella better. It added to the story and gave the pieces we were missing and what really happened. So this way of telling the story really worked for me.
I almost instantly liked Ella. She has been gone through a lot, but she's still standing. She tries to keep a low profile, but can't help but be drawn into a conversation with Josh and it was nice to slowly see her let her guards down, but the past really kept haunting her. She always keeps her guard on and can't really let herself fall in love as she feels like she doesn't know enough about Josh. Oh and she is an author and it was really fun to read a book about a main character who is an author. I almost felt like her book series where real as I could so easily imagine them to be. Josh was a nice guy as well, although I have a feeling I know what he is hiding and I am not sure how that makes me feel about him. They both have a past, a dark past, but they have changed now, but it feels like that past is still chasing them. Beside keeping a few secrets there is also a lot that he does share and he slowly draws Ella into his world.
There are a few side characters who also play a role. I especially liked Si and Trudy, they are friends of Josh and quickly become friends of Ella as well. They are great friends, being there for Josh, but also not afraid to give some advice when they think it's necessary. Then there is Eric, Ella her ex -boyfriend and he was such a despicable human being, I can't believe he actually went to court about their stillborn baby and convinced the world Ella had murdered their son. And that while Ella was being nice and kept giving their relationship a try, while she should've left long ago. There are also two younger girls which were a big fan of Ella her books and that made for some fun conversations and book related scenes. The side characters were done well and gave a cozy feel to the small town setting. The small town setting was also done well, it's clearly a town were everybody knows everyone and get's into other people their business.
The romance is really done well. Elle and Josh meet and it's clear there is something between them, there is an instant attraction, but it quickly becomes clear there is more between them as well. The chemistry between them is really done well and I knew they would end up in bed eventually. But there is much more to their romance than attraction, their feelings grow slowly but surely. And there is an interesting mix of scenes where they are getting to know each other and combined with scenes about trying to find out each other their secrets. At times it felt like Ella focussed a bit too much on finding out Josh secrets, although I did understand her as basically everyone knew her story. And I am pretty sure Josh has a secret. While the chemistry between them is really hot, the actual action happens behind closed doors, which I have to admit made me a little bit grumpy as I was curious how the sex scenes would be, when they finally gave into their attraction.
I had thought that while this book was part of a series each book would feature on a different couple, but when the end was nearing and there was no end in sight when it came to the story I realized my mistake, right before the cliffhanger ending hit me. And what an ending it is, it was so abrupt and wants me to have the next book now as I have to know what happens after that. It was an original cliffhanger though and one that makes me a bit scared for the next book, but also really curious and wondering if Josh his secret will be revealed then.
To conclude: I really enjoyed this book, the romance and suspense elements are woven nicely together. The story is told from both Ella and Josh their point of view, with some chapters taking place in the past, which I liked. Ella and Josh both were different people in their past and while they try to escape their past, their past is still very much a part of them. The romance is really well done, with an instant connection, but there is also more than that and they slowly get to know each other. I am a bit grumpy the sex scenes where behind closed doors as their chemistry was so hot. The side characters and the setting make the story come alive. The ending took me by surprise and ending in a well done cliffhanger. I can't wait for the next book in the series and see how this story continues.
July 17, 2015
I was given a copy of Lies We Live from NetGalley for an honest review and this is the review.
I am so mad at how this book ends it went from a five star rating to a two star rating in a blink of an eye. The cliffhanger that this was left at for me ruined what was an excellent book. I now feel like I wasted three hours of my life for something I may never get an answer to because over this past year I have learned life has no guarantees so the next book may not come out or in my case having MS by the time it comes out I am not going to remember this book and not care about it. So next time my advice would be if you have something great going don't let greed for the next dollar make you cut it off to soon. A lot of great authors have wonderful series out there learn from them and don't leave your readers hanging. This is not television, abrupt cliffhangers don't always make people happy.
The story was great. I loved it. But I could not recommend it to other readers until the second book is out. I just don't do cliffhangers like this one. Like I said earlier the author took something that could have been a home run and ended up striking out on the last pitch in my eyes. Unfortunately I have to give this book two stars out of five because I felt my time was wasted.
I am so mad at how this book ends it went from a five star rating to a two star rating in a blink of an eye. The cliffhanger that this was left at for me ruined what was an excellent book. I now feel like I wasted three hours of my life for something I may never get an answer to because over this past year I have learned life has no guarantees so the next book may not come out or in my case having MS by the time it comes out I am not going to remember this book and not care about it. So next time my advice would be if you have something great going don't let greed for the next dollar make you cut it off to soon. A lot of great authors have wonderful series out there learn from them and don't leave your readers hanging. This is not television, abrupt cliffhangers don't always make people happy.
The story was great. I loved it. But I could not recommend it to other readers until the second book is out. I just don't do cliffhangers like this one. Like I said earlier the author took something that could have been a home run and ended up striking out on the last pitch in my eyes. Unfortunately I have to give this book two stars out of five because I felt my time was wasted.
December 5, 2015
I want to thank the author, Brenda St. John Brown, for providing me with a copy of this book to read and give an honest review. Receiving this book for free has in no way altered my opinion or review.
I have to say that I loved this authors young adult book, Swimming To Tokyo. More than the story, which was fantastic, I loved her writing. So given the opportunity to read something else by her, I jumped at the chance.
Ella Ingram has been through the mill. And she suffered for it. After a long court battle with her boyfriend over their still born child, Ella picks up and leaves everything behind to get away and try and re-invent herself. She'll do anything to get past her past, except face it head on. When she ends up in a small town where she meets the mysterious Josh Deveraux, her life takes a turn back towards home, and all she's tried to leave behind.
I love Ella. She's strong. Her past experiences have made her so. I cannot imagine having endured the loss of a child. And to be brought to court over it is something unfathomable. This one is tough as nails. It's hard not tone on her side.
Josh has his own secrets that he doesn't share, but he knows exactly who Ella is. Josh is a perfect swoon worthy book man. Good looking, suave and ready to leave his past behind, it rears it's ugly head when Ella comes to town. And even though he knows he should stay away from her, he can't help but be drawn to her.
Ella and Josh have a slow burn. The romance is just right. Ella and Josh don't go at each other, but they don't stay away, either. The story really focuses on how they get to know each other and how they find out about the other. What starts as a simple date becomes more than either of them bargained for. Josh knows exactly who Ella is and what she's been through, but does Ella really know Josh. And his secret are is then thing she can never find out about.
I love Si and Trudy. They are Josh's friends but Trudy quickly becomes one to Ella. I love that she's there when Ella needs her most. And even though she is loyal to Josh, she knows things. Things that she can't tell Ella.
Finally there's Eric. I hate Eric. I will be that honest right off the bat. I hate what he's done to Ella. And I hate who he is. And I hate that he holds so much over her. I don't want him dead. That would be too good for him. I just want him gone. He made and continues to make Ella's life hell. And it's just not fair! I would beat him if I met him in real life!
Overall the story takes on a quiet suspense that builds and builds. I have to say I didn't see the ending coming. And then BAM, a cliffhanger. I was NOT happy! And I mean that in a great way. The way that says, "Give me the next book or I might have to thrown something!"
So onto the next book it is. Because you just can't leave someone hanging like St. John Brown did!
I have to say that I loved this authors young adult book, Swimming To Tokyo. More than the story, which was fantastic, I loved her writing. So given the opportunity to read something else by her, I jumped at the chance.
Ella Ingram has been through the mill. And she suffered for it. After a long court battle with her boyfriend over their still born child, Ella picks up and leaves everything behind to get away and try and re-invent herself. She'll do anything to get past her past, except face it head on. When she ends up in a small town where she meets the mysterious Josh Deveraux, her life takes a turn back towards home, and all she's tried to leave behind.
I love Ella. She's strong. Her past experiences have made her so. I cannot imagine having endured the loss of a child. And to be brought to court over it is something unfathomable. This one is tough as nails. It's hard not tone on her side.
Josh has his own secrets that he doesn't share, but he knows exactly who Ella is. Josh is a perfect swoon worthy book man. Good looking, suave and ready to leave his past behind, it rears it's ugly head when Ella comes to town. And even though he knows he should stay away from her, he can't help but be drawn to her.
Ella and Josh have a slow burn. The romance is just right. Ella and Josh don't go at each other, but they don't stay away, either. The story really focuses on how they get to know each other and how they find out about the other. What starts as a simple date becomes more than either of them bargained for. Josh knows exactly who Ella is and what she's been through, but does Ella really know Josh. And his secret are is then thing she can never find out about.
I love Si and Trudy. They are Josh's friends but Trudy quickly becomes one to Ella. I love that she's there when Ella needs her most. And even though she is loyal to Josh, she knows things. Things that she can't tell Ella.
Finally there's Eric. I hate Eric. I will be that honest right off the bat. I hate what he's done to Ella. And I hate who he is. And I hate that he holds so much over her. I don't want him dead. That would be too good for him. I just want him gone. He made and continues to make Ella's life hell. And it's just not fair! I would beat him if I met him in real life!
Overall the story takes on a quiet suspense that builds and builds. I have to say I didn't see the ending coming. And then BAM, a cliffhanger. I was NOT happy! And I mean that in a great way. The way that says, "Give me the next book or I might have to thrown something!"
So onto the next book it is. Because you just can't leave someone hanging like St. John Brown did!
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August 22, 2017I wrote this book! I hope you like Ella as much I enjoyed writing her. And Josh (although he's a tricky one...well, you'll see what I mean.)
Happy reading and, as always, you can follow my author page on Facebook for regular updates/teasers here: https://www.facebook.com/BrendaStJohn....
Or sign up for my newsletter for giveaways, sneak peeks, general goodness here: http://hyperurl.co/bsjb_newsletter
Happy reading and, as always, you can follow my author page on Facebook for regular updates/teasers here: https://www.facebook.com/BrendaStJohn....
Or sign up for my newsletter for giveaways, sneak peeks, general goodness here: http://hyperurl.co/bsjb_newsletter
September 7, 2017
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
I wasn't planning on reading this today. I got the email from Brenda early this afternoon and I was so excited. Because I love her. I am totally obsessed with Brenda St. John Brown. If you asked me as a reviewer to tell you what the one book I wish more people were reading is, my answer would be Swimming to Tokyo. It's SO good. Go read it if you haven't.
Back to my point, I wasn't going to get into this today. I had another book on my docket and told Brenda I would get this done by the end of next week at the latest. But I couldn't let it go. I literally had anxiety over whether or not Brenda would let me down with her follow up to Swimming to Tokyo so I cracked open my kindle, just planning to read the first chapter. I just wanted to get an idea of what it was about and what I could expect. I couldn't stop reading it.
Let's start with a little rehash of the synopsis: Ella is on her way to California after her ex-boyfriend sues her for negligence following the still-birth of their child. After stopping to use the bathroom in the little town of Horace, Arkansas, she meets Josh Devereaux, a local golden boy with secrets of his own. So there's that. It's obligatory, right?
I love the way this author builds characters- a little at a time. Everyone is peeled back like an onion. They're complex and real. They act like real people. This isn't one of those books where the characters fly off the handle over a miscommunication or withheld information and stop speaking. (That's totally infuriating in a book.) They have reasonable responses to the things that happen to them. At no point during Brenda's novels do you want to scream, "THAT WOULD NEVER HAPPEN IN REAL LIFE!"
Brenda is a great writer. Some of her descriptions were so spot on that they gave me tingles. E.g. Because, like it or not, he's there, like a sliver in back of my knee. Poking. Hard to forget.
Additionally, the stab at authors who tell not show was such a great in joke. I was definitely giving Brenda a high five in my mind for that one. Everyone knows adverbs are a crutch.
I want to be totally fair to this book and let you know that if I was rating it against Swimming to Tokyo I wouldn't have given it 5 stars. Swimming to Tokyo is nearly perfect in my opinion and Lies We Live is not without its flaws. Fortunately, I am the boss of reviews and I can give it 5 stars because it was a crazy compelling novel. I was on the edge of my seat and totally and completely entertained at all times. I wanted to know what happened next. There were several times where I had to start over on a page because I caught myself trying to scan to see what was going to happen. I was glued. I was so into it, that I started to forget that the people mentioned in The Hollywood Reporter weren't real and actually picked up my phone to google Monica like she was a real person. I was invested. And let's be real. The books can't be compared. They're completely different.
I loved that Lies We Live isn't a love story straight out of the gate. You kind of worry that it's going to be, but this first book is really more of a hesitant "I like you, but I don't totally trust you yet because of ton of crappy stuff has happened in my life" story. Don't get me wrong: there's plenty of steam and tender moments. And for as much angst as the book seems to have when you boil it down to its simplest points, the book avoids feeling melodramatic or overblown. The author acknowledges the character's struggles without letting those things define them.
The formatting of the novel was kind of perplexing though. Some of the chapters had dates AND said "x years earlier" or something similar and some just had a date. Sometimes when the chapter would end and a new one would begin, there would be a date, but no time had passed. It left me extremely confused and unsure of where I was in the timeline until I was able to pick up from context clues what was happening. The random chapters from Josh's point of view were a little strange, but only because there were so few. They weren't frequent enough to seem like they served a purpose other than to fill in information that the author thought the reader needed, but couldn't figure out how to deliver from Ella's perspective.
The only other complaint I have is that chapter 14 made no sense to me. I couldn't figure out why Trudi shot Ella daggers during their conversation with Skylar. What was the issue with her not having life experiences? I feel like this was really unclear and could have been elaborated on somehow to clarify.
I lied, I have one more complaint: HOLY CLIFFHANGER. Why did I early review this? I'm not sure I can wait for the next book in the series!
Thank you so much for not letting us down, Brenda! You're definitely one of my favorites!
As always, this is also posted to my website: Crazy Something Maybe.
I wasn't planning on reading this today. I got the email from Brenda early this afternoon and I was so excited. Because I love her. I am totally obsessed with Brenda St. John Brown. If you asked me as a reviewer to tell you what the one book I wish more people were reading is, my answer would be Swimming to Tokyo. It's SO good. Go read it if you haven't.
Back to my point, I wasn't going to get into this today. I had another book on my docket and told Brenda I would get this done by the end of next week at the latest. But I couldn't let it go. I literally had anxiety over whether or not Brenda would let me down with her follow up to Swimming to Tokyo so I cracked open my kindle, just planning to read the first chapter. I just wanted to get an idea of what it was about and what I could expect. I couldn't stop reading it.
Let's start with a little rehash of the synopsis: Ella is on her way to California after her ex-boyfriend sues her for negligence following the still-birth of their child. After stopping to use the bathroom in the little town of Horace, Arkansas, she meets Josh Devereaux, a local golden boy with secrets of his own. So there's that. It's obligatory, right?
I love the way this author builds characters- a little at a time. Everyone is peeled back like an onion. They're complex and real. They act like real people. This isn't one of those books where the characters fly off the handle over a miscommunication or withheld information and stop speaking. (That's totally infuriating in a book.) They have reasonable responses to the things that happen to them. At no point during Brenda's novels do you want to scream, "THAT WOULD NEVER HAPPEN IN REAL LIFE!"
Brenda is a great writer. Some of her descriptions were so spot on that they gave me tingles. E.g. Because, like it or not, he's there, like a sliver in back of my knee. Poking. Hard to forget.
Additionally, the stab at authors who tell not show was such a great in joke. I was definitely giving Brenda a high five in my mind for that one. Everyone knows adverbs are a crutch.
I want to be totally fair to this book and let you know that if I was rating it against Swimming to Tokyo I wouldn't have given it 5 stars. Swimming to Tokyo is nearly perfect in my opinion and Lies We Live is not without its flaws. Fortunately, I am the boss of reviews and I can give it 5 stars because it was a crazy compelling novel. I was on the edge of my seat and totally and completely entertained at all times. I wanted to know what happened next. There were several times where I had to start over on a page because I caught myself trying to scan to see what was going to happen. I was glued. I was so into it, that I started to forget that the people mentioned in The Hollywood Reporter weren't real and actually picked up my phone to google Monica like she was a real person. I was invested. And let's be real. The books can't be compared. They're completely different.
I loved that Lies We Live isn't a love story straight out of the gate. You kind of worry that it's going to be, but this first book is really more of a hesitant "I like you, but I don't totally trust you yet because of ton of crappy stuff has happened in my life" story. Don't get me wrong: there's plenty of steam and tender moments. And for as much angst as the book seems to have when you boil it down to its simplest points, the book avoids feeling melodramatic or overblown. The author acknowledges the character's struggles without letting those things define them.
The formatting of the novel was kind of perplexing though. Some of the chapters had dates AND said "x years earlier" or something similar and some just had a date. Sometimes when the chapter would end and a new one would begin, there would be a date, but no time had passed. It left me extremely confused and unsure of where I was in the timeline until I was able to pick up from context clues what was happening. The random chapters from Josh's point of view were a little strange, but only because there were so few. They weren't frequent enough to seem like they served a purpose other than to fill in information that the author thought the reader needed, but couldn't figure out how to deliver from Ella's perspective.
The only other complaint I have is that chapter 14 made no sense to me. I couldn't figure out why Trudi shot Ella daggers during their conversation with Skylar. What was the issue with her not having life experiences? I feel like this was really unclear and could have been elaborated on somehow to clarify.
I lied, I have one more complaint: HOLY CLIFFHANGER. Why did I early review this? I'm not sure I can wait for the next book in the series!
Thank you so much for not letting us down, Brenda! You're definitely one of my favorites!
As always, this is also posted to my website: Crazy Something Maybe.
June 22, 2015
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A huge fan of Brenda's first novel, Swimming to Tokyo, I was over the moon to discover she was writing a new book. I didn't even care what it was about. I loved her writing and I knew I had to have it immediately. And, let me tell you, it was one heck of a ride.
Lies We Live was unlike any book I've read in recent memory and it's a tough one to review without giving too much away. Part mystery, part romance, it was an interesting ride from start to finish. It jumps around from past to present tense and it took me a little while to get a handle on that, but once I did, I found that I really liked how those switches enhanced the story. Ella's story was sad for so many reasons, so I was happy to see her life getting back to at least somewhat normal in a small town in Arkansas. The characters of Horatio were intriguing in the way that small town folks tend to be. I loved how characters like Josh, Si and Trudy embrace Ella and make her feel at home.
Ella was a great female lead and one tough cookie. I liked her from the start. The woman had been through some truly awful things and I respected her for managing to keep her head up after all of it. I loved that she was a writer. Her series sounded intriguing and there were some great little bits about the publishing and blogging worlds thrown in for good measure. I found myself intrigued by Josh. I knew he was keeping secrets, though I never really guessed the extent of them. But, he was kind to Ella and I thought they had great chemistry. Romance is part of the book, no doubt, but it's definitely not the featured story. That honor goes to Ella's growth and development as she finds herself again and tries to come to terms with and let go of things that happened in the past.
Lies We Live was a great, addictive ride. I couldn't even think of putting it down and, if I'm honest, I might've freaked out a little bit when I hit that cliffhanger. Holy crap. Brenda, you know how to leave us desperately wanting more. I have questions and theories and I'm afraid I'm gonna need the second book ASAP so I can stop running this all through in my head! ;)
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
A huge fan of Brenda's first novel, Swimming to Tokyo, I was over the moon to discover she was writing a new book. I didn't even care what it was about. I loved her writing and I knew I had to have it immediately. And, let me tell you, it was one heck of a ride.
Lies We Live was unlike any book I've read in recent memory and it's a tough one to review without giving too much away. Part mystery, part romance, it was an interesting ride from start to finish. It jumps around from past to present tense and it took me a little while to get a handle on that, but once I did, I found that I really liked how those switches enhanced the story. Ella's story was sad for so many reasons, so I was happy to see her life getting back to at least somewhat normal in a small town in Arkansas. The characters of Horatio were intriguing in the way that small town folks tend to be. I loved how characters like Josh, Si and Trudy embrace Ella and make her feel at home.
Ella was a great female lead and one tough cookie. I liked her from the start. The woman had been through some truly awful things and I respected her for managing to keep her head up after all of it. I loved that she was a writer. Her series sounded intriguing and there were some great little bits about the publishing and blogging worlds thrown in for good measure. I found myself intrigued by Josh. I knew he was keeping secrets, though I never really guessed the extent of them. But, he was kind to Ella and I thought they had great chemistry. Romance is part of the book, no doubt, but it's definitely not the featured story. That honor goes to Ella's growth and development as she finds herself again and tries to come to terms with and let go of things that happened in the past.
Lies We Live was a great, addictive ride. I couldn't even think of putting it down and, if I'm honest, I might've freaked out a little bit when I hit that cliffhanger. Holy crap. Brenda, you know how to leave us desperately wanting more. I have questions and theories and I'm afraid I'm gonna need the second book ASAP so I can stop running this all through in my head! ;)
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 4, 2015
Storyline: 5
Angst: 2
Tissue: 0
Value: 5
Panty Scorching: 1
Over All Rating: 4.25 Stars
Kindle eArc
Reviewed by Robin
Ella is an author that has had a rough time lately. Her ex took her to court for a civil suit this past year. She’s had a personal tragedy. Now she’s driving across the country and trying to lie low when she stops in a small town in Arkansas to eat. She meets Josh Deveraux who convinces her to stay the night and have dinner with him. She doesn’t want him to know her secrets. Little does she know that Josh has secrets of his own and when she finds them out, she might not be able to forgive him.
“‘God, I want you.’ My words come out in gasps as Josh kisses my throat.
‘I want you, too.’ Josh’s lips trail along my jawbone, leaving pinpricks of fire on my skin.
‘Come back to the hotel with me.’ I scrape my nails down his back.
He stops like I slapped him, reeling away, his eyes wild. ‘I… oh, Jesus Christ.’
‘What? What’s wrong?’ I slip off the ledge and pull my skirt down, trying to catch my breath, which sticks somewhere between my chest and my throat. ‘I… I thought…’
It doesn’t matter what you thought; you were wrong.
‘I don’t… I didn’t mean…’ Josh shoves his fingers through his hair. He still looks dazed. ‘I can’t do this.’”
I really enjoyed trying to figure out what Josh’s connection to all of this is. Ella has had a rough time lately. You feel bad for her because no one should have to go through what she’s just went through. But sometimes when she talks about the life she led, she comes across as very shallow. And she was. Perhaps she and her ex had a toxic relationship. Where does Josh fit in and can she trust him? I have some theories about his remorse regarding Ella and I can’t wait for the next book to find out if I’m right.
This was my first story by Brenda St. John Brown. It’s a lot of mystery and suspense but not too many sexy times. More the “promise” of sexy times. I do know that I will be reading Truths We Tell to find out if Ella needs to kick Josh’s behind or will he end up being an unexpected ally.
http://wp.me/p61UnB-ZP
Angst: 2
Tissue: 0
Value: 5
Panty Scorching: 1
Over All Rating: 4.25 Stars
Kindle eArc
Reviewed by Robin
Ella is an author that has had a rough time lately. Her ex took her to court for a civil suit this past year. She’s had a personal tragedy. Now she’s driving across the country and trying to lie low when she stops in a small town in Arkansas to eat. She meets Josh Deveraux who convinces her to stay the night and have dinner with him. She doesn’t want him to know her secrets. Little does she know that Josh has secrets of his own and when she finds them out, she might not be able to forgive him.
“‘God, I want you.’ My words come out in gasps as Josh kisses my throat.
‘I want you, too.’ Josh’s lips trail along my jawbone, leaving pinpricks of fire on my skin.
‘Come back to the hotel with me.’ I scrape my nails down his back.
He stops like I slapped him, reeling away, his eyes wild. ‘I… oh, Jesus Christ.’
‘What? What’s wrong?’ I slip off the ledge and pull my skirt down, trying to catch my breath, which sticks somewhere between my chest and my throat. ‘I… I thought…’
It doesn’t matter what you thought; you were wrong.
‘I don’t… I didn’t mean…’ Josh shoves his fingers through his hair. He still looks dazed. ‘I can’t do this.’”
I really enjoyed trying to figure out what Josh’s connection to all of this is. Ella has had a rough time lately. You feel bad for her because no one should have to go through what she’s just went through. But sometimes when she talks about the life she led, she comes across as very shallow. And she was. Perhaps she and her ex had a toxic relationship. Where does Josh fit in and can she trust him? I have some theories about his remorse regarding Ella and I can’t wait for the next book to find out if I’m right.
This was my first story by Brenda St. John Brown. It’s a lot of mystery and suspense but not too many sexy times. More the “promise” of sexy times. I do know that I will be reading Truths We Tell to find out if Ella needs to kick Josh’s behind or will he end up being an unexpected ally.
http://wp.me/p61UnB-ZP
December 30, 2015
This book killed me. It was intriguing, hypnotic, and angsty. Lies We Live is a story that will combine the drama and angst that New Adult readers love with a bit of mystery. This story draws you in and will keep you on the edge seat until the very end. Even at the end with the surprise ending, you will be left reeling from what is to come and curiosity as to what could possibly happen in the end of the series. This story combines the drama of daytime TV with the pop culture and relativity of the CW. It has highs and lows and a while of action in between. This story takes you into the past and back to the present to develop the backstory as you go. You see parts of this book in Ella’s POV and others in Josh’s POV. Dual POVs allow the reader to better understand that something more is brewing. You expect, the more you read, for there to be a lot happening with Ella and what she is leaving behind. What I did not expect was everything that surfaces (or technically begins to surface) with Josh. There is an unease about what he is hiding the more you read. There is bound to be a HUGE explosion, one you will most likely be able to theorize while reading the first book, and it is going to escalate the story quickly.
Brenda St. John Brown does a fantastic job of presenting a story that hooks you from the beginning. Travelling back and forth along Ella’s timeline allows for a fun and intriguing way to absorb what is happening. Ella is not perfect. She has major flaws that are not shied away from in this book. She admits to her faults and her honesty is refreshing. Josh is a man who is still a mystery. You learn more about who he is in the big city and the small country town. But there is so much more lurking below the surface. Learning who he is in time with Ella allows the reader to fall in love with him just a little bit. I am so excited to see what happens. The second I finished this book I pre-ordered the second in the Duo. I hate that I have to wait to see where things lead but I am beyond excited to see what Brenda has up her sleeve!
Brenda St. John Brown does a fantastic job of presenting a story that hooks you from the beginning. Travelling back and forth along Ella’s timeline allows for a fun and intriguing way to absorb what is happening. Ella is not perfect. She has major flaws that are not shied away from in this book. She admits to her faults and her honesty is refreshing. Josh is a man who is still a mystery. You learn more about who he is in the big city and the small country town. But there is so much more lurking below the surface. Learning who he is in time with Ella allows the reader to fall in love with him just a little bit. I am so excited to see what happens. The second I finished this book I pre-ordered the second in the Duo. I hate that I have to wait to see where things lead but I am beyond excited to see what Brenda has up her sleeve!
August 22, 2017
What an excellent first book release for Brenda St. John Brown. I have read many first published books that didn't have near the charm or writing skills that Brenda brought to the table with this story. Josh was a rising star in the tech industry that found himself in headlines due to his relationship with the daughter of old money in New York. Ella was an author who's books went viral resulting in movie deals. But Ella's ex-boyfriend just embarrassed her nationally by dragging her through a court battle to say she was negligent in the loss of their baby toward the end of her pregnancy. She is trying her best to hide away from the spotlight trying to heal not only from losing her child but the awful things her ex-boyfriend did to her to win his case and get her to pay him damages. Then she meets Josh at a small town bar in Arkansas. I thought the sexual angst in this book was off the charts and kept things at an all time high for this couple throughout the story. Josh is a gentleman and he holds off knowing he's keeping a secret that could end their relationship before it even starts. Both Ella and Josh feel so much for each other, but both have been burned pretty badly, so they both hold back and end up in another awful situation. The bad part is that we don't know what will happen until we pick up part 2! I thought this was a great first book re-release.
August 22, 2017
I wasn't sure what to expect with this book, but I was very surprised, as I really enjoyed this story. Ella Ingraham is best selling author, and also an accused murderer. Her ex sued her for negligence after her baby was born dead at 8 months. She needs to get away so she goes on a road trip. Josh Devereaux is a very hot part time farmer, and full time tech genius hiding away after New York turned him into someone he's not. He's battling secret demons that are locked up tightly. When he meets Ella, he feels something for the first time in a while, and it scares him that she could unlock all the secrets. Ella hasn't planned to get involved with Josh, but as they spend time together, the feelings grow quickly. Will Josh and Ella let down their walls for a chance to be together?
The story was a bit slow at the beginning because I was so confused, but once I got past that, I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough. The character development is slow but great, with a few rockin secondaries. Story line is mysterious that flows well. Brenda St. John Brown does a great job with weaving together layers so there were surprises that I never saw coming. It ends on a big cliff hanger that has me needing the next book like yesterday! I can't wait to read more, and I happily recommend.
The story was a bit slow at the beginning because I was so confused, but once I got past that, I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough. The character development is slow but great, with a few rockin secondaries. Story line is mysterious that flows well. Brenda St. John Brown does a great job with weaving together layers so there were surprises that I never saw coming. It ends on a big cliff hanger that has me needing the next book like yesterday! I can't wait to read more, and I happily recommend.
January 31, 2017
I really enjoyed this book and it would have been 4/5 if it wasn't for the fact it was a complete cliffhanger.
I like the characters, I like the story that's told from different perspectives and mixes past and present, and I really like the writing. More than once I found myself laugh out loud because of a description or the conversation. For example:
However, I am really annoyed at the cliffhanger. There is no need for it and it's really cheapened my opinion of the book. I want to know how it continues, but at the same time I'm way too annoyed right now.
I like the characters, I like the story that's told from different perspectives and mixes past and present, and I really like the writing. More than once I found myself laugh out loud because of a description or the conversation. For example:
When Josh’s hand clamps around my wrist at the top and pulls me across the ledge, the fireworks start as if to congratulate me on not ending up splattered on the concrete. Thank you. I accept fireworks for far less.
However, I am really annoyed at the cliffhanger. There is no need for it and it's really cheapened my opinion of the book. I want to know how it continues, but at the same time I'm way too annoyed right now.
August 3, 2017
Omg Brenda you have done it again!! I loved it, the characters are amazing. I loved Skyler and Leah...cute die hard Ella book fans!!! Josh wow I loved him....as I got to the end I knew the curve ball was coming. Got the first one and was happy when it was over but in the the last 15 pages, I knew the shoe was going to drop....and I yelled at the screen when it fell. I can not wait for the next book! Brenda I know you will not let me down!! If you love the Brit Series you will love it!!! Can not wait for me!
May 13, 2021
Excellent!
I started this book knowing there are two in this series. Now that I’ve completed it, I am very glad to know I have #2 already queued up!
Excellent writing, incredible characters and a lot of back & forth in the timeline that get a bit confusing but is extremely relevant to the whole plot! This book kept me on the edge of my seat yet fulfilled my romance needs as well.
Definitely recommend!
I started this book knowing there are two in this series. Now that I’ve completed it, I am very glad to know I have #2 already queued up!
Excellent writing, incredible characters and a lot of back & forth in the timeline that get a bit confusing but is extremely relevant to the whole plot! This book kept me on the edge of my seat yet fulfilled my romance needs as well.
Definitely recommend!
February 24, 2018
Ella is on a cross country road trip/move as a new start after the year from hell. She meets Josh in small town Arkansas. This book asks more questions than it answers. Why is Josh being blackmailed by his ex when the ex is the one that had the affair? it ends in a cliff hanger and don't care enough about the characters to continue
January 1, 2019
So good
I was pulled right into this story. This is the first story I read by this author and I was not disappointed. I loved the filling through past and present. This was intelligent and well written. I'm not a fan of cliffhangers but I'm excited to read the next book
I was pulled right into this story. This is the first story I read by this author and I was not disappointed. I loved the filling through past and present. This was intelligent and well written. I'm not a fan of cliffhangers but I'm excited to read the next book
May 3, 2022
Loved this slow burn and the chemistry between Ella and Josh was amazing. I felt such a connection with Ella and I really wanted her to have a HEA after the trauma of her past. Five star read hands down. Couldn't locate on Amazon, but posted a review on Goodreads.
May 29, 2017
What a fun afternoon read!! Now I have to order the next book in the series and wait two days until it arrives... I hate waiting...
February 10, 2019
Tempting Josh is very vague with its story. The characters are out of reach, just not personable enough for me. Ends on a cliffhanger. I would like to see what connects all the characters.
March 9, 2021
3.5 stars
December 21, 2015
Holy WOW!
I'm not sure I even have the words that won't make this review a spoilery mess, but I will try.
Ella Ingrahm has suffered more than a woman should recently. Life threw her a curveball and then beat her over the head with it and ran over her while she was down. She's still suffereing for it, guilt ridden, lonely, pissed off, sad, and untrusting. She's trying to put her life back together though, and in doing so finds herself stopped in a random city in nowhere, Arkansas. She thinks this might be a good stop to rest, maybe nobody here will know her. But sadly, Ella can't escape the past.
Josh has his own problems from the past, his own guilt, and his own pain. He returned home to Arkansas a changed man for many reasons. When he stumbles onto Ella in Horatio, AR, He can't believe it. He knows who she is, better than anyone in ways, but he also has no clue at all. Josh struggles with his feelings toward Ella, and with secrets he's keeping.
Ella is a strong woman, anyone weak would have folded under long ago. It's hard to read her story, without feeling her loss and even more the pain and suffering piled on top of that because of her jerky ex. It almost hurts to read the flashbacks because knowing what became of her, just really sits heavily on the heart and mind.
Josh was a little harder to figure out, I knew he had secrets, knew he was keeping things, but I would not have guessed exactly what he was hiding or how deep his secrets went. He truly is a good guy, wanting to right, but often failing or feeling as if he failed. He can be harsh, saying things he doesn't mean, but overall his innate goodness is palpable.
Lies We Live is full of twists and turns, some you can guess at, others you don't even expect until they hit you right in the face. This story is one emotional bump after another, but it all culminates into an amazing story, two people who randomly find each other, only to have their past lives come back to haunt them and wreak havoc.
Each time I thought I had it all figured out, I'd realize I didn't, and when the last twist arrives right at the end of the book, I was left with so many more questions and theories. I can't wait to dive in to the next book and see what I figured out and what surprises still lay in wait.
I'm not sure I even have the words that won't make this review a spoilery mess, but I will try.
Ella Ingrahm has suffered more than a woman should recently. Life threw her a curveball and then beat her over the head with it and ran over her while she was down. She's still suffereing for it, guilt ridden, lonely, pissed off, sad, and untrusting. She's trying to put her life back together though, and in doing so finds herself stopped in a random city in nowhere, Arkansas. She thinks this might be a good stop to rest, maybe nobody here will know her. But sadly, Ella can't escape the past.
Josh has his own problems from the past, his own guilt, and his own pain. He returned home to Arkansas a changed man for many reasons. When he stumbles onto Ella in Horatio, AR, He can't believe it. He knows who she is, better than anyone in ways, but he also has no clue at all. Josh struggles with his feelings toward Ella, and with secrets he's keeping.
Ella is a strong woman, anyone weak would have folded under long ago. It's hard to read her story, without feeling her loss and even more the pain and suffering piled on top of that because of her jerky ex. It almost hurts to read the flashbacks because knowing what became of her, just really sits heavily on the heart and mind.
Josh was a little harder to figure out, I knew he had secrets, knew he was keeping things, but I would not have guessed exactly what he was hiding or how deep his secrets went. He truly is a good guy, wanting to right, but often failing or feeling as if he failed. He can be harsh, saying things he doesn't mean, but overall his innate goodness is palpable.
Lies We Live is full of twists and turns, some you can guess at, others you don't even expect until they hit you right in the face. This story is one emotional bump after another, but it all culminates into an amazing story, two people who randomly find each other, only to have their past lives come back to haunt them and wreak havoc.
Each time I thought I had it all figured out, I'd realize I didn't, and when the last twist arrives right at the end of the book, I was left with so many more questions and theories. I can't wait to dive in to the next book and see what I figured out and what surprises still lay in wait.
December 4, 2015
Ella had it all , a successful career as a romantic suspense novelist and having her books made into a film and she was pregnant . The only thing she thought she had but didn't it turned out to be was a great loving husband. When Ella lost her baby in a miscarry, he took Ella to court and sued her with child negligence. Two years later, Ella has been named and viewed as a murderer and has had enough and so she decides to head away to her sister Grace's and start fresh. Doing a road trip, she lands in a small town called Horatio and meets Josh Deveraux. One thing leads to another and soon she finds herself staying longer than her original thought of just passing on through. After Josh's failed marriage , he came back cold and closed off but Ella is making parts of the old Josh return. Is this Ella's chance at a second happiness and a fresh start ? Josh however is hiding a few truths as he knew Ella during the trial and followed it quite closely and has connections to her old life . We read as this pair go back and forth , slowly opening up to one another about their lives and past. What will happen though when just as Ella is about to give her whole self to Josh- a number from her past that she knows so well flashes on his cellphone ?
A warning to readers that Lies we Live does finish on a major cliffhanger and if you are like me and can't wait for Book #2 to be published , then I suggest that you wait until you have both books to read - that way you aren't spending so long hanging in limbo waiting to have the truth revealed.
A warning to readers that Lies we Live does finish on a major cliffhanger and if you are like me and can't wait for Book #2 to be published , then I suggest that you wait until you have both books to read - that way you aren't spending so long hanging in limbo waiting to have the truth revealed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 7, 2015
I wasn't sure what to expect with this book, but I was very surprised, as I really enjoyed this story. Ella Ingraham is best selling author, and also an accused murderer. Her ex sued her for negligence after her baby was born dead at 8 months. She needs to get away so she goes on a road trip. Josh Devereaux is a very hot part time farmer, and full time tech genius hiding away after New York turned him into someone he's not. He's battling secret demons that are locked up tightly. When he meets Ella, he feels something for the first time in a while, and it scares him that she could unlock all the secrets. Ella hasn't planned to get involved with Josh, but as they spend time together, the feelings grow quickly. Will Josh and Ella let down their walls for a chance to be together?
The story was a bit slow at the beginning because I was so confused, but once I got past that, I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough. The character development is slow but great, with a few rockin secondaries. Story line is mysterious that flows well. Brenda St. John Brown does a great job with weaving together layers so there were surprises that I never saw coming. It ends on a big cliff hanger that has me needing the next book like yesterday! I can't wait to read more, and I happily recommend.
The story was a bit slow at the beginning because I was so confused, but once I got past that, I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough. The character development is slow but great, with a few rockin secondaries. Story line is mysterious that flows well. Brenda St. John Brown does a great job with weaving together layers so there were surprises that I never saw coming. It ends on a big cliff hanger that has me needing the next book like yesterday! I can't wait to read more, and I happily recommend.
December 8, 2015
You have to pay attention while reading this. It jumps occasionally from past to present. There was a lot of detail as well. The storyline flowed pretty easily. The downfall for me was that it ends in a cliffhanger. Ugh!
Ella has been drug through the mud, her name has been on tv and in all the papers. She has suffered a great lose and has paid for it dearly. All she wants is to get to California and try to put everything in the past. When she stops in Arkansas she gets more than she bargained for. Josh Devereaux is one thing she wasn't expecting. Ella's life is an open book. She has no secrets anymore. If you want to know something all anyone has to do is google it. So when Josh wants to know things, she wants to keep her past in the past but things are never that easy. Josh seems nice enough but he has his own secrets. And the biggest secret seems to be that he knows more about Ella than he leads on. Just when Ella thinks things can't get worse, they do. And just when she thinks Josh has laid all his cards on the table she realizes he has another one hidden up his sleeve.
This was a good read, not easy but still good. Like I said, just make sure to pay attention to all the information!!
Ella has been drug through the mud, her name has been on tv and in all the papers. She has suffered a great lose and has paid for it dearly. All she wants is to get to California and try to put everything in the past. When she stops in Arkansas she gets more than she bargained for. Josh Devereaux is one thing she wasn't expecting. Ella's life is an open book. She has no secrets anymore. If you want to know something all anyone has to do is google it. So when Josh wants to know things, she wants to keep her past in the past but things are never that easy. Josh seems nice enough but he has his own secrets. And the biggest secret seems to be that he knows more about Ella than he leads on. Just when Ella thinks things can't get worse, they do. And just when she thinks Josh has laid all his cards on the table she realizes he has another one hidden up his sleeve.
This was a good read, not easy but still good. Like I said, just make sure to pay attention to all the information!!
December 1, 2015
Five Fantastic Stars! Ella is being sued for the dead of her stillborn child. She is traveling to California when she stopped in Arkansas and meets Josh. She has an instant attraction to Josh and decides to stay in Arkansas. Josh is the golden boy of Horace but he has secrets of his own. Will Ella ever find out his secrets? This story is told mostly from Ella's point of view but there are chapters from Josh point of view. This is a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat and wanting more. But be forewarned there is a cliffhanger. I love this Author style of writing and I am anxiously waiting for the next book.
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. This book was read and reviewed by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. This book was read and reviewed by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.
February 11, 2016
I received this book through the Goodreads giveaway and was very surprised at just how much I enjoyed this book. One it has a beautiful cover, and I was instantly hooked by the short blurb on the back. As I began to read I was in love with the story by the end of the first chapter, the characters are so real and so honest and the relationships that form as the book goes on are truly mesmerizing. And that love connection? Incredible, it was the perfect combination of attraction and emotional connection. When I got to the end of the book and realized it was a series I was thrilled because after reading that I knew that I had to have more from this author. I highly recommend this book to anyone!
June 14, 2015
OMGG!! The feels and the mystery and the plot twist in this book is so worth it! I received an ARC from the author and I am so glad to have read it first! The book was filled with romance and plot twists and hidden pasts. This book was soo good!! I liked SWIMMING IN TOKYO by the same author and this book did not disappoint me at all! I loved it and the ending oh my god. I'm so curious and I just can't wait for the next boom to come out! Full review to be up soon but this is just my reaction after reading the book!!
July 17, 2015
This would have been an easy 4 stars if it were a complete story, but it's a complete cliffhanger. And maybe I would have been okay with this, except I don't think there was any indication of this, and it wasn't until there was about 10 pages left I was like "...umm, there's no way this is going to get resolved, what's going on?"
So I still really, really enjoyed this one, but I was really disappointed that it just randomly ended and I'll have to wait until Book 2 (or further?) for a conclusion.
Full review to come.
So I still really, really enjoyed this one, but I was really disappointed that it just randomly ended and I'll have to wait until Book 2 (or further?) for a conclusion.
Full review to come.
September 24, 2015
I got the opportunity to read an early version of this book and I was hooked from the beginning. It's a romance-suspense hybrid that follows a young adult author, Ella, who is driving cross-country after she is the defendant in a very public trial concerning the still-birth of her child. A chance meeting with a very attractive man turns into a story that alternates between sweet small-town romance and the crushing weight of the secrets that the main characters hold in their past.
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