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Cruel #4
The Lying Season
A new second chance office stand alone romance from USA Today bestselling author K.A. Linde...
Six years ago, Sam and I were on top of the world. We won the campaign. Our dreams were in sight. Most importantly, we had each other.
Then he lied.
And it all fell apart.
Now, he's back in New York City.
Working on the mayor's reelection with me.
And it all feels so familiar.
Except for his fiancé waiting in the wings.
And I should know better.
Six years ago, Sam and I were on top of the world. We won the campaign. Our dreams were in sight. Most importantly, we had each other.
Then he lied.
And it all fell apart.
Now, he's back in New York City.
Working on the mayor's reelection with me.
And it all feels so familiar.
Except for his fiancé waiting in the wings.
And I should know better.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 4, 2020
About the author
K.A. Linde
90 books9,665 followersK.A. Linde is the USA Today bestselling author of the Avoiding Series, Wrights, and more than thirty other novels. She has a Masters degree in political science from the University of Georgia, was the head campaign worker for the 2012 presidential campaign at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and served as the head coach of the Duke University dance team. She loves reading fantasy novels, traveling to far-off destinations, and dancing in her spare time.
She currently lives in Lubbock, Texas, with her husband, son, and super-adorable puppy.
Visit her online at www.kalinde.com and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @authorkalinde.
Join her newsletter at www.kalinde.com/subscribe for exclusive content, free books, and giveaways every month.
She currently lives in Lubbock, Texas, with her husband, son, and super-adorable puppy.
Visit her online at www.kalinde.com and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @authorkalinde.
Join her newsletter at www.kalinde.com/subscribe for exclusive content, free books, and giveaways every month.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 326 reviews
February 3, 2020
4.5 stars!
The Lying Season is another angsty second chance romance from the queen of angst, K.A. Linde.
Lark St. Vincent is a successful campaign manager from the upper east side. She’s working hard to re-elect the mayor, when she gets a blast from her past. In the form of Sam Rutherford, her ex-boyfriend who is now working with her. Years ago, Sam and Lark fell in love on a different campaign but things didn’t end well. Its obvious Lark still has feelings for Sam, and he may feel the same way, and that makes working together all the more difficult.
I loved Lark. She’s the glue that holds her friend group together, and she brought out a human side to Kathrine that I never saw in the other books. I actually kind of want her to get her own book now… You don’t need to read the Cruel Money series to read this, it can be a complete stand-alone, but if you’ve read those, you’ll see many familiar faces and even a few familiar scenes.
As much as I loved Lark, I also really liked Sam. They had a past, but they also had so much chemistry together. I couldn’t wait to see how their story would turn out. Though there were obstacles in their way, I really rooted for them to get it together.
I’m a fan of second chance romances and I love Linde’s angsty books, so this was a huge win for me. If you’re looking for a book with lots of heart, lots of heat, and one you won’t want to put down, pick up The Lying Season!
Secrets kept them apart before. Lying might force them together.
The Lying Season is another angsty second chance romance from the queen of angst, K.A. Linde.
Lark St. Vincent is a successful campaign manager from the upper east side. She’s working hard to re-elect the mayor, when she gets a blast from her past. In the form of Sam Rutherford, her ex-boyfriend who is now working with her. Years ago, Sam and Lark fell in love on a different campaign but things didn’t end well. Its obvious Lark still has feelings for Sam, and he may feel the same way, and that makes working together all the more difficult.
I loved Lark. She’s the glue that holds her friend group together, and she brought out a human side to Kathrine that I never saw in the other books. I actually kind of want her to get her own book now… You don’t need to read the Cruel Money series to read this, it can be a complete stand-alone, but if you’ve read those, you’ll see many familiar faces and even a few familiar scenes.
As much as I loved Lark, I also really liked Sam. They had a past, but they also had so much chemistry together. I couldn’t wait to see how their story would turn out. Though there were obstacles in their way, I really rooted for them to get it together.
I’m a fan of second chance romances and I love Linde’s angsty books, so this was a huge win for me. If you’re looking for a book with lots of heart, lots of heat, and one you won’t want to put down, pick up The Lying Season!
July 22, 2020
Poignant, angsty second chances office romance.
This heartfelt romance had a lot of heart.
Sam and Lark’s story started out one way, but as the story evolved, other issues came into play, which made their story more compelling.
They have a long and complicated history that ended badly. Fast forward 6 years and when they see each other again, the chemistry is there, but so are other complications.
Can they have a second chance?
Well paced, with well developed characters, I really enjoyed Sam and Larks story.
As they attempt to find their way to each other they realize that issues from the past are still affecting them.
This is more than a second chance romance but a story of forgiveness and acceptance.
This heartfelt romance had a lot of heart.
Sam and Lark’s story started out one way, but as the story evolved, other issues came into play, which made their story more compelling.
They have a long and complicated history that ended badly. Fast forward 6 years and when they see each other again, the chemistry is there, but so are other complications.
Can they have a second chance?
Well paced, with well developed characters, I really enjoyed Sam and Larks story.
As they attempt to find their way to each other they realize that issues from the past are still affecting them.
This is more than a second chance romance but a story of forgiveness and acceptance.
February 23, 2020
2.5 stars
I really hate it when the first book of a series, that is even labeled as a standalone, requires reading a previous book(s?) from the author to enjoy/understand it fully. More than half the book the hero/heroine repeatedly make vague references to a bad breakup they had five years earlier. Rather than this backstory being finally revealed via an emotional confrontation, we instead only get two pages total where they finally quickly mention why exactly they broke up previously and then immediately move on. Ugh! The characters are all barely described, along with their relationship to each other, because again the assumption is that the reader already knows all of that. Even if I had read the earlier books, I still don't think this was anything that different or interesting plot-wise. Also
I really hate it when the first book of a series, that is even labeled as a standalone, requires reading a previous book(s?) from the author to enjoy/understand it fully. More than half the book the hero/heroine repeatedly make vague references to a bad breakup they had five years earlier. Rather than this backstory being finally revealed via an emotional confrontation, we instead only get two pages total where they finally quickly mention why exactly they broke up previously and then immediately move on. Ugh! The characters are all barely described, along with their relationship to each other, because again the assumption is that the reader already knows all of that. Even if I had read the earlier books, I still don't think this was anything that different or interesting plot-wise. Also
February 12, 2020
3.5 Stars
K.A. Linde once again proves that she excels at writing political plots. The hero fell flat and one dimensional for me. However, I’m looking forward to reading the next hero in the series!
K.A. Linde once again proves that she excels at writing political plots. The hero fell flat and one dimensional for me. However, I’m looking forward to reading the next hero in the series!
February 6, 2020
3.5 stars
February 4, 2020
<3 5 STARS <3
This was an amazing read, I devour it in one sitting!This is a second chance romance.Lark comes from a wealthy family however, she always wanted to make her own life and do whatever she wants. I absolutely love Lark, she is a strong and sassy heroine.I admired her and I loved her!
Lark and Sam have a fantastic chemistry! Sam is the complete opposite from Lark and her world.But somehow they were perfect for each other.I fall in love with them and their romance!
The Lying Season has a little bit of everything, drama, a little angst and a great romance!
This was an amazing read, I devour it in one sitting!This is a second chance romance.Lark comes from a wealthy family however, she always wanted to make her own life and do whatever she wants. I absolutely love Lark, she is a strong and sassy heroine.I admired her and I loved her!
Lark and Sam have a fantastic chemistry! Sam is the complete opposite from Lark and her world.But somehow they were perfect for each other.I fall in love with them and their romance!
The Lying Season has a little bit of everything, drama, a little angst and a great romance!
September 2, 2020
4.5 stars for The Lying Season!
Wow! This is my first KA Linde book, and I am hooked! I love an office romance coupled with secrets and lies, and also a second chance romance! It literally has all the tropes! I loved everything about this, even the diversity that was woven in with such class, and so naturally. Bravo, Kyla Linde!! You literally covered all the bases with me! You have a forever fan!!
Wow! This is my first KA Linde book, and I am hooked! I love an office romance coupled with secrets and lies, and also a second chance romance! It literally has all the tropes! I loved everything about this, even the diversity that was woven in with such class, and so naturally. Bravo, Kyla Linde!! You literally covered all the bases with me! You have a forever fan!!
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October 8, 2019This book was a whirlwind! I loved every minute of it! I can't wait for you all to get to read it. AHhhh!
February 4, 2020
I went into The Lying Season by K.A. Linde, expecting an entertaining and engaging read and I was not disappointed.
The Lying Season is a second chance romance centered around the mayoral campaign trail. It tells the story of Lark St. Vincent and Sam Rutherford. Prior to the events in The Lying Season, Lark and Sam dated for a year. During this time Sam was not aware that Lark was from the Upper East Side, which made her out his league socially and financially. They hit a rough patch and their relationship ended on a bad note. Five years later, while fulfilling her dream working on the Mayoral campaign trail, Lark will come face to face with her past. Will Sam and Lark be able to overcome the issues of their past and seize their HEA.
I loved the pacing and flow of the story, and I found the romance and the characters to be well developed. I had a great time getting to know the secondary characters introduced and was happy to discover they would be getting their own story.
Lark has matured since her breakup with Sam. She is no longer manipulative and selfish. Instead, she has grown into a confident, down to earth and determined woman. I loved how she stood up for herself against persons who sought to meddle in her life.
As for Sam, I didn’t take to him immediately. His indecisiveness made it difficult for me to like him. The fact that it took someone else’s actions to make him come to a decision in regards to renewing his relationship with Lark did not go down well with me, and even then he was not completely honest with her. Eventually, he proved himself worthy of being with Lark.
What I enjoyed most about the romance between Lark and Sam was the pace at which it developed. Five years apart may not have extinguished the spark that burned between these two, but, Lark would not let Sam off so easily. He would have to work hard to prove he cared.
As, one would expect with a story centered on the political arena The Lying Season had its share of drama and angst. However, most of the angst and the drama had to do with Lark’s friends.
Conclusion/Recommendation
The Lying Season is a great start to what appears to be an exciting series. I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to readers who enjoy second chance romance.
The Lying Season is a second chance romance centered around the mayoral campaign trail. It tells the story of Lark St. Vincent and Sam Rutherford. Prior to the events in The Lying Season, Lark and Sam dated for a year. During this time Sam was not aware that Lark was from the Upper East Side, which made her out his league socially and financially. They hit a rough patch and their relationship ended on a bad note. Five years later, while fulfilling her dream working on the Mayoral campaign trail, Lark will come face to face with her past. Will Sam and Lark be able to overcome the issues of their past and seize their HEA.
I loved the pacing and flow of the story, and I found the romance and the characters to be well developed. I had a great time getting to know the secondary characters introduced and was happy to discover they would be getting their own story.
Lark has matured since her breakup with Sam. She is no longer manipulative and selfish. Instead, she has grown into a confident, down to earth and determined woman. I loved how she stood up for herself against persons who sought to meddle in her life.
As for Sam, I didn’t take to him immediately. His indecisiveness made it difficult for me to like him. The fact that it took someone else’s actions to make him come to a decision in regards to renewing his relationship with Lark did not go down well with me, and even then he was not completely honest with her. Eventually, he proved himself worthy of being with Lark.
What I enjoyed most about the romance between Lark and Sam was the pace at which it developed. Five years apart may not have extinguished the spark that burned between these two, but, Lark would not let Sam off so easily. He would have to work hard to prove he cared.
As, one would expect with a story centered on the political arena The Lying Season had its share of drama and angst. However, most of the angst and the drama had to do with Lark’s friends.
Conclusion/Recommendation
The Lying Season is a great start to what appears to be an exciting series. I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to readers who enjoy second chance romance.
February 14, 2020
I loved this.
Second chance is my go to genre.
I did have a few issues with the Hero. I would have liked him to be less wishy washy.
The past actions were a bit vague but the writing was so good.
The secondary characters introduced are all really interesting and I would read more.
For the safety gang.
Hero has a girlfriend he is living with when the Hero and heroine see each other again.
They have both been with others.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine though the Hero is picking with his girlfriend.
No cheating.
The Hero and his girlfriend are 'on a break' when he starts things with the heroine but it was clear the girlfriend intended to pursue things with other people while away so he viewed it as broken up.
HEA.
Loads of breadcrumbs dropped for future books in series.
Second chance is my go to genre.
I did have a few issues with the Hero. I would have liked him to be less wishy washy.
The past actions were a bit vague but the writing was so good.
The secondary characters introduced are all really interesting and I would read more.
For the safety gang.
Hero has a girlfriend he is living with when the Hero and heroine see each other again.
They have both been with others.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine though the Hero is picking with his girlfriend.
No cheating.
The Hero and his girlfriend are 'on a break' when he starts things with the heroine but it was clear the girlfriend intended to pursue things with other people while away so he viewed it as broken up.
HEA.
Loads of breadcrumbs dropped for future books in series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2020
I loved this.
Second chance is my go to genre.
I did have a few issues with the Hero. I would have liked him to be less wishy washy.
The past actions were a bit vague but the writing was so good.
The secondary characters introduced are all really interesting and I would read more.
For the safety gang.
Hero has a girlfriend he is living with when the Hero and heroine see each other again.
They have both been with others.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine though the Hero is kissing with his girlfriend.
No cheating.
The Hero and his girlfriend are 'on a break' when he starts things with the heroine but it was clear the girlfriend intended to pursue things with other people while away so he viewed it as broken up.
HEA.
Loads of breadcrumbs dropped for future books in series.
Dual POV.
Standalone but opens up more characters stories.
Second chance is my go to genre.
I did have a few issues with the Hero. I would have liked him to be less wishy washy.
The past actions were a bit vague but the writing was so good.
The secondary characters introduced are all really interesting and I would read more.
For the safety gang.
Hero has a girlfriend he is living with when the Hero and heroine see each other again.
They have both been with others.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine though the Hero is kissing with his girlfriend.
No cheating.
The Hero and his girlfriend are 'on a break' when he starts things with the heroine but it was clear the girlfriend intended to pursue things with other people while away so he viewed it as broken up.
HEA.
Loads of breadcrumbs dropped for future books in series.
Dual POV.
Standalone but opens up more characters stories.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2020
4.25 Stars / 4 Steam Fans
If you are looking for angsty goodness, then this is the book for you. Larkin and Sam have a romantic history, and when they enter each other's life again, things get crazy!
Video review available in Week 5 Jan 26 – Feb 1 weekly book reviews.
For other video book reviews, check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
If you are looking for angsty goodness, then this is the book for you. Larkin and Sam have a romantic history, and when they enter each other's life again, things get crazy!
Video review available in Week 5 Jan 26 – Feb 1 weekly book reviews.
For other video book reviews, check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
March 2, 2021
I had a hard time keeping track with all of the different characters in this for some reason, idk why. I was hoping for another Brady Maxwell but Sam was no Maxwell, he was a bit beige and I just wasn’t feeling him I’m afraid. And the repetition of the phrase Upper east side really bugger me. Ah well.
Complete story but part of a series of recurring characters.
Complete story but part of a series of recurring characters.
July 22, 2020
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
'The lying Season' is the first book of the 'Seasons' Series , written by K.A. Linde. Told in dual perspectives , this book was one of the best office/second chance Romance I have ever read!!
This was the first book that I have read by this author and I absolutely adore her style of writing! Sam and Lark's story is going to stay with me for a long long time. I have always been a druggie for second chance Romances and this one seemed to hit right on that.
Sam and Lark have a painful history. They fell in love years ago , but fate was not with them. They had to part on painful terms , but never got over each other. Fast forward 6 years , they both meet again. This time they are together in a campaign and now have to work together !! Old hurts surface again and soon it becomes tough for them to just remain professional. From there they embark on a path full of forgiveness and acceptance and deciding whether they want to invest in each other again!
This was a well paced story for me and I absolutely loved these characters. Not only the lead characters, but the side ones too!! There are so many theories I have about the future stories and I can't wait to see which character will get his story next! This author has quickly become my favourite and I can't wait to see more of her !💓
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May 2, 2020
Sam pissed me off for half of this book.
February 8, 2021
WORSE THAN BRAIN FREEZE
OMFG make it stop! More author tricks I can't stand. How much do I hate this practice??? TO INFINITY AND BEYOND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This series just came out in April 2020, and already the titles have been changed with no way to reference them (GR hasn't caught up yet with the title changes) ... NO, THE NEW TITLES are now under the Upper East Side series: CRUEL PROMISE, CRUEL TRUTH, CRUEL DESIRE, and CRUEL MARRIAGE, as the new non-cross-referenced titles on Amazon. If you reviewed them, as I have, you can't find them under the old titles, but those reviews will now appear under the new titles. I just wasted so much time I can't get back trying to find the old titles and wondering why the blurb for the new titles sounded so familiar ...
I hate this "title changing" bullshit like I hate brain freeze. The ONLY reason for it is to drum up new sales. HERE'S THE REALLY SHITTY THING. The author used the same ASIN # for the books, so you can no longer find the old titles when you search for them. Excuse me while I go scream into the night at yet another inconsiderate and careless entrapment move by an author to buy the same series twice or make readers think it's a new series. She does note in small disclaimer on the buy page what the former title was, but I'm not a fan of this practice especially on such a new series less than a year old ...
If you're interested in my review of the beginning of this series, formerly called HIS FOR A SEASON, then read on. I DOUBLY DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS SERIES.
CONTINUATION OF THE CRUEL MONEY WORLD, BUT REALLY BLAND AND BORING
Typically, this is an author that really entertains me, except for the Cruel Money series (which was ridiculous), but I put my feelings aside on that to dive into this prequel. I really shouldn’t have bothered. There was no reason for this prequel. The little that happens here could have been achieved much better and more concisely in a Prologue or a couple chapters in upcoming The Lying Season, which this prequel sets up. Remember rich heiress Larkin St. Vincent from the Cruel Money series? She was one of Penn’s cruel “Crew” who harassed and tormented Natalie, the girl he loved but screwed over as part of their games. The prequel in that series – One Cruel Night – was fantastic. Short, deep, emotional, to the point, excellent setup of two MCs and their conflict, plus a good cliffy leading into the series. It was so romantic, tragic, and very focused. This prequel was just a breath of dry dust. The opening was a dull bore. The characters were bland. Their conversations were alot of chatting about nothing. None of it stirred any interest in them or the story, with more talk than action and lots of time jumps, which made it very superficial. It covers a year of Larkin -- using the alias Lark Vincent so no one will recognize her name for a change – working as an ordinary girl on a political campaign in another state, while she falls for co-worker/country boy Sam from the South. So, now we get their story. Trouble is, there wasn’t any flow to setting up this couple. I felt no connection between them, and everything was rushed and glossed over. No chemistry whatsoever.
In a nutshell, they work hard, flirt a bit, share a little face sucking, and eventually get around to sex before his devious ex shows up on the campaign with designs to get him back. What she does, how Lark responds, and the fallout was so cliché I wanted to throw my Kindle. It felt like high school shenanigans, not young adults out of college and law school. It wasn’t even believable. This just seems like a continuation of the Cruel Money dynamic of one character sabotaging another and the man between them so easily believing the manipulation, instead of the truth. I’m so over recycled ideas, characters and storylines that I could scream. And the superficial storytelling was the last straw. K.A. Linde can write interesting characters and stories, but this just felt lazy. It isn’t hard to figure out exactly where all this is headed and how it will play out, plus we know characters from before, so some of the mystery is gone anyway. Think I’ll pass on reading further.
OMFG make it stop! More author tricks I can't stand. How much do I hate this practice??? TO INFINITY AND BEYOND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This series just came out in April 2020, and already the titles have been changed with no way to reference them (GR hasn't caught up yet with the title changes) ... NO, THE NEW TITLES are now under the Upper East Side series: CRUEL PROMISE, CRUEL TRUTH, CRUEL DESIRE, and CRUEL MARRIAGE, as the new non-cross-referenced titles on Amazon. If you reviewed them, as I have, you can't find them under the old titles, but those reviews will now appear under the new titles. I just wasted so much time I can't get back trying to find the old titles and wondering why the blurb for the new titles sounded so familiar ...
I hate this "title changing" bullshit like I hate brain freeze. The ONLY reason for it is to drum up new sales. HERE'S THE REALLY SHITTY THING. The author used the same ASIN # for the books, so you can no longer find the old titles when you search for them. Excuse me while I go scream into the night at yet another inconsiderate and careless entrapment move by an author to buy the same series twice or make readers think it's a new series. She does note in small disclaimer on the buy page what the former title was, but I'm not a fan of this practice especially on such a new series less than a year old ...
If you're interested in my review of the beginning of this series, formerly called HIS FOR A SEASON, then read on. I DOUBLY DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS SERIES.
CONTINUATION OF THE CRUEL MONEY WORLD, BUT REALLY BLAND AND BORING
Typically, this is an author that really entertains me, except for the Cruel Money series (which was ridiculous), but I put my feelings aside on that to dive into this prequel. I really shouldn’t have bothered. There was no reason for this prequel. The little that happens here could have been achieved much better and more concisely in a Prologue or a couple chapters in upcoming The Lying Season, which this prequel sets up. Remember rich heiress Larkin St. Vincent from the Cruel Money series? She was one of Penn’s cruel “Crew” who harassed and tormented Natalie, the girl he loved but screwed over as part of their games. The prequel in that series – One Cruel Night – was fantastic. Short, deep, emotional, to the point, excellent setup of two MCs and their conflict, plus a good cliffy leading into the series. It was so romantic, tragic, and very focused. This prequel was just a breath of dry dust. The opening was a dull bore. The characters were bland. Their conversations were alot of chatting about nothing. None of it stirred any interest in them or the story, with more talk than action and lots of time jumps, which made it very superficial. It covers a year of Larkin -- using the alias Lark Vincent so no one will recognize her name for a change – working as an ordinary girl on a political campaign in another state, while she falls for co-worker/country boy Sam from the South. So, now we get their story. Trouble is, there wasn’t any flow to setting up this couple. I felt no connection between them, and everything was rushed and glossed over. No chemistry whatsoever.
In a nutshell, they work hard, flirt a bit, share a little face sucking, and eventually get around to sex before his devious ex shows up on the campaign with designs to get him back. What she does, how Lark responds, and the fallout was so cliché I wanted to throw my Kindle. It felt like high school shenanigans, not young adults out of college and law school. It wasn’t even believable. This just seems like a continuation of the Cruel Money dynamic of one character sabotaging another and the man between them so easily believing the manipulation, instead of the truth. I’m so over recycled ideas, characters and storylines that I could scream. And the superficial storytelling was the last straw. K.A. Linde can write interesting characters and stories, but this just felt lazy. It isn’t hard to figure out exactly where all this is headed and how it will play out, plus we know characters from before, so some of the mystery is gone anyway. Think I’ll pass on reading further.
January 31, 2020
The Lying Season is a standalone second chance love book that takes you on a ride of the rich and famous.
Larkin has lived a privileged life but what her parents want from her and what she wants out of life are completely different. Doing her dream job, she face to face with her past, the one past that destroyed her and broke her heart. Sam moved to be with his girlfriend and what he didn’t expect was to see his ex-girlfriend, when feelings start to surface how will they move forward with all the baggage they are carrying?
I personally enjoyed reading this book, Linde kept me hanging on and I finished it in 1 sitting. I am looking forward to Court and English in The Hating Season.
**Reviewed for Amity Book Reviews**
Star Ratings; Plot: 4/5 Characters: 4/5 Heat: 4/5 Writing Style: 4/5 Overall: 4/5
Larkin has lived a privileged life but what her parents want from her and what she wants out of life are completely different. Doing her dream job, she face to face with her past, the one past that destroyed her and broke her heart. Sam moved to be with his girlfriend and what he didn’t expect was to see his ex-girlfriend, when feelings start to surface how will they move forward with all the baggage they are carrying?
I personally enjoyed reading this book, Linde kept me hanging on and I finished it in 1 sitting. I am looking forward to Court and English in The Hating Season.
**Reviewed for Amity Book Reviews**
Star Ratings; Plot: 4/5 Characters: 4/5 Heat: 4/5 Writing Style: 4/5 Overall: 4/5
January 26, 2020
* A review copy was provided by the author *
~ 5 “Buns” Stars ~
I have been dying to read the Lying Season since we met Lark in the Cruel Trilogy. I was so excited to see that K.A. Linde was going to be writing a companion novel off of the Upper East Side Crew. This book did not disappoint at all!!!
This is a second chance romance centered around the campaign trail. This is a complete standalone novel and is told in Dual POV. You don’t have to read the Cruel Trilogy first if you don’t want to, but I would recommend it. I thought K.A. Linde does a great job filling in the holes when need be, but to get a full understanding of these characters and the lives they are wrapped up in, you should definitely read the Cruel Trilogy first.
I thought the pace and flow of this book worked well. The storyline is well developed and was well written. This book isn’t as angsty or drama filled as the Cruel Trilogy was, but this book does have it’s ups and downs and enough drama to keep you interested. I couln’t help but root for Lark and Sam to get their HEA.
This story is about Lark St. Vincent and Sam Rutherford. Lark is a part of the Upper East Side Crew and comes from a famous and wealthy family. But she has always been determined to make it on her own and do what she wants to do with her life. And that is NOT to work for her parents. She got the bug for politics when she worked on a campaign years ago…that is also where she met and fell in love with Sam. Until it all went south. Now 5 years later and Sam is back in her life. Can they get over the past and move forward to get their HEA?? Or has too much pain been inflicted?? I absolutely LOVED Lark’s character. She is spunky and sassy but also down to earth. I love how she has come to accept all of herself…including the flaws. Sam took me a little bit to warm up to, I wanted to shake him a couple times and tell him to wake up!!! But he finally grew on me and I loved him in the end.
I enjoyed seeing some of the Crew in this book, although I did miss seeing Penn and Natalie in this book. I also liked getting to know some new characters who make appearances in this book. I hope we see more of them in the future ;)
If you are a fan of a second chance love story, then this is one you will want to read. This is a book that should be on everyone’s TBR list!!!
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~ 5 “Buns” Stars ~
I have been dying to read the Lying Season since we met Lark in the Cruel Trilogy. I was so excited to see that K.A. Linde was going to be writing a companion novel off of the Upper East Side Crew. This book did not disappoint at all!!!
This is a second chance romance centered around the campaign trail. This is a complete standalone novel and is told in Dual POV. You don’t have to read the Cruel Trilogy first if you don’t want to, but I would recommend it. I thought K.A. Linde does a great job filling in the holes when need be, but to get a full understanding of these characters and the lives they are wrapped up in, you should definitely read the Cruel Trilogy first.
I thought the pace and flow of this book worked well. The storyline is well developed and was well written. This book isn’t as angsty or drama filled as the Cruel Trilogy was, but this book does have it’s ups and downs and enough drama to keep you interested. I couln’t help but root for Lark and Sam to get their HEA.
This story is about Lark St. Vincent and Sam Rutherford. Lark is a part of the Upper East Side Crew and comes from a famous and wealthy family. But she has always been determined to make it on her own and do what she wants to do with her life. And that is NOT to work for her parents. She got the bug for politics when she worked on a campaign years ago…that is also where she met and fell in love with Sam. Until it all went south. Now 5 years later and Sam is back in her life. Can they get over the past and move forward to get their HEA?? Or has too much pain been inflicted?? I absolutely LOVED Lark’s character. She is spunky and sassy but also down to earth. I love how she has come to accept all of herself…including the flaws. Sam took me a little bit to warm up to, I wanted to shake him a couple times and tell him to wake up!!! But he finally grew on me and I loved him in the end.
I enjoyed seeing some of the Crew in this book, although I did miss seeing Penn and Natalie in this book. I also liked getting to know some new characters who make appearances in this book. I hope we see more of them in the future ;)
If you are a fan of a second chance love story, then this is one you will want to read. This is a book that should be on everyone’s TBR list!!!
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February 1, 2020
This is one of those books where I could appreciate the quality of the writing but didn’t actually enjoy the story. Though it’s described as a standalone and is the start of a new series, there were so many characters from previous books and so much (unknown) history between the leads that it felt like I was starting at the middle of the story. So while there were times when I was completely intrigued by and engrossed in the story, there were things that held me back from fully connecting.
The story follows Lark, reformed mean girl and current campaign manager, whose life is upended when her ex joins the staff. Lark and Sam spent one perfect year together when she was rebelling against her wealthy parents, but her plans to work for the family business meant their romance had an expiration date. Things got messy towards the end, but five years have passed and neither one seems to have let go completely. As they work together and reconnect, that old spark resurfaces... despite the obstacles in their way.
Let's start with what I liked, because there was a lot. The writing itself is solid, with a depth to the characters that you don't often find in romances. I loved Sam, the Southern gentleman who isn't afraid of commitment. I actually liked him better than Lark - she's just not my kind of heroine (has done some pretty questionable things in the past and seems to have slept with most of the guys in the book). I also enjoyed that we're introduced to the couple from the next book and it sounds like quite the story.
Where I struggled is with the abundance of characters, who are all connected by events that took place in previous books. Yes, I like it when characters tie a series together, but I don't want to feel like I need to read everything the author's ever written to enjoy a book (I've read some of her work but am not current). The first 40% is focused on the group of friends with very little interaction between Sam and Lark, so by the time we got to them I had already started to disconnect. I must also mention that I don't think readers who are looking for a safe read without OW/OM drama will find it with this - there are some complicated relationships featured that make for entertaining, angsty reads but will likely be problematic for some. My final verdict? Fans of K.A. Linde will love this, but those who are less familiar with her work may find themselves struggling. I received an ARC via Wildfire Marketing Solutions and am voluntarily leaving a review of this second chance romance.
The story follows Lark, reformed mean girl and current campaign manager, whose life is upended when her ex joins the staff. Lark and Sam spent one perfect year together when she was rebelling against her wealthy parents, but her plans to work for the family business meant their romance had an expiration date. Things got messy towards the end, but five years have passed and neither one seems to have let go completely. As they work together and reconnect, that old spark resurfaces... despite the obstacles in their way.
Let's start with what I liked, because there was a lot. The writing itself is solid, with a depth to the characters that you don't often find in romances. I loved Sam, the Southern gentleman who isn't afraid of commitment. I actually liked him better than Lark - she's just not my kind of heroine (has done some pretty questionable things in the past and seems to have slept with most of the guys in the book). I also enjoyed that we're introduced to the couple from the next book and it sounds like quite the story.
Where I struggled is with the abundance of characters, who are all connected by events that took place in previous books. Yes, I like it when characters tie a series together, but I don't want to feel like I need to read everything the author's ever written to enjoy a book (I've read some of her work but am not current). The first 40% is focused on the group of friends with very little interaction between Sam and Lark, so by the time we got to them I had already started to disconnect. I must also mention that I don't think readers who are looking for a safe read without OW/OM drama will find it with this - there are some complicated relationships featured that make for entertaining, angsty reads but will likely be problematic for some. My final verdict? Fans of K.A. Linde will love this, but those who are less familiar with her work may find themselves struggling. I received an ARC via Wildfire Marketing Solutions and am voluntarily leaving a review of this second chance romance.
February 3, 2020
3.5 Stars
Im torn on this one guys....I really liked the storyline but......my first issue is I feel like there is way too much missing....I thought this was a standalone but there was so many references to the past, it was hard to follow at times. There were also too many characters if that is possible. I was actually putting down my kindle and taking a break because I was exerting too much energy figuring out who was who multiple times.
Lark works for the Mayor and is heavily involved in the political world....which there was a lot about...I didn't like that...2nd there were so many references to her being from "upper east side" and her upper east side crew...again I felt like there was huge chunks missing. Anyway, an ex of hers Sam, shows up at her job where he is an attorney and she is devastated to see him. He is shocked to see her as well. Its clear that something huge happened between these two and they try to steer clear of each other but you can tell they are still attracted to each other. The characters were too moody and indecisive as well which left me questioning what the hell was going on as well.
I wanted to like this story so much!! Too political....to much stereotyping of "upper east side" people..that I still dont get...and if you claim its a standalone, the reader cant spend half the time they are reading making a flow chart of who the characters are and trying to figure out what the backstory is and how it relates to THIS story. It was super frustrating. Clearly read all the books that come before this one even though it claims to be a standalone. Definitely was not my cup of tea. If you have ever been in a group of people where they are all talking about private/inside jokes and you felt clueless..that is how I felt reading this book.
Im torn on this one guys....I really liked the storyline but......my first issue is I feel like there is way too much missing....I thought this was a standalone but there was so many references to the past, it was hard to follow at times. There were also too many characters if that is possible. I was actually putting down my kindle and taking a break because I was exerting too much energy figuring out who was who multiple times.
Lark works for the Mayor and is heavily involved in the political world....which there was a lot about...I didn't like that...2nd there were so many references to her being from "upper east side" and her upper east side crew...again I felt like there was huge chunks missing. Anyway, an ex of hers Sam, shows up at her job where he is an attorney and she is devastated to see him. He is shocked to see her as well. Its clear that something huge happened between these two and they try to steer clear of each other but you can tell they are still attracted to each other. The characters were too moody and indecisive as well which left me questioning what the hell was going on as well.
I wanted to like this story so much!! Too political....to much stereotyping of "upper east side" people..that I still dont get...and if you claim its a standalone, the reader cant spend half the time they are reading making a flow chart of who the characters are and trying to figure out what the backstory is and how it relates to THIS story. It was super frustrating. Clearly read all the books that come before this one even though it claims to be a standalone. Definitely was not my cup of tea. If you have ever been in a group of people where they are all talking about private/inside jokes and you felt clueless..that is how I felt reading this book.
February 5, 2020
40 % of reading this book i feel like im done. We have a heroine who is very rich, beautiful poweful, smart and was hurt by the hero. So when the hero came back and on their early encounters, she felt , anger and vowed to never felt like that again. See, i read about a thousand of romantic novels ( books like this) so i really want a heroine who's a woman of her words, cold towards the hero, a little snob. Because cmon he hurt her , but that didnt happen, they settle for being "friends" and the heroine was always concern with him. Ughlk... Im soo tired of reading books like this, most of them are the same . Guy hurts girl, girl was friendly even when she vows never to feel that way again.
I was disappointed, because Lark was wAaaay out of Sam's league. Cant she play a little hard to get. Ugh.
Again this book for me is disappointing, predictable, heroine's attitude are the same as other books i have read.
I was disappointed, because Lark was wAaaay out of Sam's league. Cant she play a little hard to get. Ugh.
Again this book for me is disappointing, predictable, heroine's attitude are the same as other books i have read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2020
I haven’t read many books by K.A. Linde but boy do I need to rectify that! I really loved this book. These characters where completely addicting. I feel like I’ve found my new favorite crew!
The Lying season is the perfect second chance romance. Lark and Sam have instant chemistry once they see each other again. It’s as if no time has passed at all.
The Lying season is the perfect second chance romance. Lark and Sam have instant chemistry once they see each other again. It’s as if no time has passed at all.
February 6, 2020
4.5 stars
***ARC received in exchange of an honest opinion***
I really really really enjoyed The Lying Season! I wasn't prepared to like this story as much as I did. From all of the other characters from the Crew, Larkin was my favorite one and I loved her own book. She was relatable and real and I connect with her from the beginning.
This is a second chance romance and when we're introduced to the hero we don't know what happened in Lark and Sam's past. It takes some time for us to know and I like that there isn't a lot of focus on it and the story focuses more on their present. And although I liked that, I wish there was a bit more about their past and how things unfolded.
I thought this was going to be duet, but it's a standalone and I'm glad because I spent the second half of the book agonizing thinking something terrible would happen to the characters. Although I kinda liked that, because I'm a sucker for angst.
This book not only puts more perspective in Lark, but also in other members of the Crew, specially Katherine and Camden and I'm DYING to read their book. I just know it will be MY KIND of read. Maybe more than all of these other books in the series/universe.
The next book will be about characters that have a big role in The Lying Season and I'm glad about it. I'm happy it doesn't focus on Pen and Natalie. In fact, they hardly appear in this one and it's a great thing, because they already had 3 and a half books about them and that way there was more time to focus on Lark and some of their other friends.
This book is all about Lark and Sam, but the insights about other characters are precious and I enjoyed them immensely. K.A. Linde is doing such an amazing job with this universe. I have a bit of a Gossip Girl nostalgia reading these. Not only because it's set in the Upper East Side universe, but also because the friendships between the Crew. Because even when some of them are jerks, they stick together and are loyal to their own.
I love that Larkin is the most "normal"of the group, but even so she doesn't have it easy. She want a more normal life, but leaving her Upper East Side princess life behind is not that easy. Bad Lark is always there lurking and she has to learn how to concile her old self with her currently self. There were mentions of her old behavior, but I wish there was more to it, so we could understand her a bit better. Don't get me wrong, we can still understand her pretty well.
This book makes the Crew seem more real and more relatable and even more likable. I'm enjoying them more now and I'm looking forward for more from them, which is something that surprised me. Lark defined herself as the glue that keeps her Crew together and she isn't lying. She is not only the glue, but she is the bridge that brings the Upper East Side and the Human world together. Not only in the story, but for me it feels like this book is a game changer in the story too.
***ARC received in exchange of an honest opinion***
I really really really enjoyed The Lying Season! I wasn't prepared to like this story as much as I did. From all of the other characters from the Crew, Larkin was my favorite one and I loved her own book. She was relatable and real and I connect with her from the beginning.
This is a second chance romance and when we're introduced to the hero we don't know what happened in Lark and Sam's past. It takes some time for us to know and I like that there isn't a lot of focus on it and the story focuses more on their present. And although I liked that, I wish there was a bit more about their past and how things unfolded.
I thought this was going to be duet, but it's a standalone and I'm glad because I spent the second half of the book agonizing thinking something terrible would happen to the characters. Although I kinda liked that, because I'm a sucker for angst.
This book not only puts more perspective in Lark, but also in other members of the Crew, specially Katherine and Camden and I'm DYING to read their book. I just know it will be MY KIND of read. Maybe more than all of these other books in the series/universe.
The next book will be about characters that have a big role in The Lying Season and I'm glad about it. I'm happy it doesn't focus on Pen and Natalie. In fact, they hardly appear in this one and it's a great thing, because they already had 3 and a half books about them and that way there was more time to focus on Lark and some of their other friends.
This book is all about Lark and Sam, but the insights about other characters are precious and I enjoyed them immensely. K.A. Linde is doing such an amazing job with this universe. I have a bit of a Gossip Girl nostalgia reading these. Not only because it's set in the Upper East Side universe, but also because the friendships between the Crew. Because even when some of them are jerks, they stick together and are loyal to their own.
I love that Larkin is the most "normal"of the group, but even so she doesn't have it easy. She want a more normal life, but leaving her Upper East Side princess life behind is not that easy. Bad Lark is always there lurking and she has to learn how to concile her old self with her currently self. There were mentions of her old behavior, but I wish there was more to it, so we could understand her a bit better. Don't get me wrong, we can still understand her pretty well.
This book makes the Crew seem more real and more relatable and even more likable. I'm enjoying them more now and I'm looking forward for more from them, which is something that surprised me. Lark defined herself as the glue that keeps her Crew together and she isn't lying. She is not only the glue, but she is the bridge that brings the Upper East Side and the Human world together. Not only in the story, but for me it feels like this book is a game changer in the story too.
February 6, 2020
DNF at 50% because I was so bored!
There was too much going on with the side characters that I couldn’t even remember who was who and I couldn’t figure out where the story was going.
Lark was downright annoying, I just couldn’t connect with her, because she had no redeeming qualities she complained on every chapter.
Sams chapters were few and in between that I never got to know him.
The book is split in different parts and there was no need for that unless you were going to take us back to the year when Sam and Lark actually met, I had to read about their past in snippets between their dialogue.
I went into this book thinking that were was going to be OW drama because they mention a FIANCÉ in the blurb but that is incorrect!
There was too much going on with the side characters that I couldn’t even remember who was who and I couldn’t figure out where the story was going.
Lark was downright annoying, I just couldn’t connect with her, because she had no redeeming qualities she complained on every chapter.
Sams chapters were few and in between that I never got to know him.
The book is split in different parts and there was no need for that unless you were going to take us back to the year when Sam and Lark actually met, I had to read about their past in snippets between their dialogue.
I went into this book thinking that were was going to be OW drama because they mention a FIANCÉ in the blurb but that is incorrect!
February 12, 2020
3.5 Stars
The Lying Season is a stand-alone romance that features Lark from Linde's Cruel Legacy series. You really don't need to read that series to know and understand who Lark is, but it would definitely help to understand all the dynamics that are skimmed over in this book.
Lark St. Vincent has always wanted to pave her own way and not follow the expectations that her parents had. She found her love for politics when she worked for a campaign at a young age and knew that was what her passion was; not working in her parent's company.
This book was a slow burn for me. Linde had to really build this story up for us to understand how Lark came to be where is she today. And honestly, for me, that build up was really slow and sort of hum-drum. The only time I felt any sort of excitement was when the crew was all together and you knew things could possibly go sideways.
For those who did not read Cruel Legacy series, there will be certain parts that might feel overwhelming or confusing due to information overload. But don't fret, those scenes are there to add some excitement to this book.
Lark and Sam's journey is somewhat boring. There isn't any real excitement or drama between them. Not to say that is bad, but I think because of what we got in the Cruel series, this felt very subdued. Lark, herself, was the most level-headed out of the crew so this story matches her well. A lot of the focus is on Lark and her commitment to the campaign and politics. Linde does do a nice job of keeping the politics very balanced and never pushing a particular agenda in her book, which is very refreshing.
Overall, this book was right down the middle enjoyable for me. I will definitely continue to read the other standalones of upcoming crew members because I really want to know all their stories.
The Lying Season is a stand-alone romance that features Lark from Linde's Cruel Legacy series. You really don't need to read that series to know and understand who Lark is, but it would definitely help to understand all the dynamics that are skimmed over in this book.
Lark St. Vincent has always wanted to pave her own way and not follow the expectations that her parents had. She found her love for politics when she worked for a campaign at a young age and knew that was what her passion was; not working in her parent's company.
This book was a slow burn for me. Linde had to really build this story up for us to understand how Lark came to be where is she today. And honestly, for me, that build up was really slow and sort of hum-drum. The only time I felt any sort of excitement was when the crew was all together and you knew things could possibly go sideways.
For those who did not read Cruel Legacy series, there will be certain parts that might feel overwhelming or confusing due to information overload. But don't fret, those scenes are there to add some excitement to this book.
Lark and Sam's journey is somewhat boring. There isn't any real excitement or drama between them. Not to say that is bad, but I think because of what we got in the Cruel series, this felt very subdued. Lark, herself, was the most level-headed out of the crew so this story matches her well. A lot of the focus is on Lark and her commitment to the campaign and politics. Linde does do a nice job of keeping the politics very balanced and never pushing a particular agenda in her book, which is very refreshing.
Overall, this book was right down the middle enjoyable for me. I will definitely continue to read the other standalones of upcoming crew members because I really want to know all their stories.
February 15, 2020
I really, really had to keep an open mind about this book!!! I had NO CLUE the main character was part of the Cruel series. She was part of “The Crew”. A bunch of rich upper East siders; Penn, Rowe, Lewis And Katherine. I had no clue this was going to be Larks book. I was reading the very 1st page and then it all clicked for me once it said upper east side!
(I was getting flash backs! lol the last book was hard for me.)
Oh man... I loved the 1st and 2nd book in that series. But the 3rd book. I didn’t enjoy it at all. And the Crew was a big part of not liking the book. So, Lark was one them.
I’m going to try and go into this book with an open mind. So I’m diving back in.
Ok... the upper east side once again is this entity in this book. Just like in the Cruel series. That was one of the things that got to me. Everything was upper east side this and upper east side that. Everything was blamed on it. I hated it.
“The only other person in our five-member crew who had gotten out of the Upper East Side cycle. He was a philosophy professor at Columbia, bucking all tradition, and trying to live the good life with his girlfriend, Natalie."
“Gavin came from old Texas oil money. He wasn’t Upper East Side rich,"
“I could play Upper East Side politics as well as he could.”
I just can’t. It felt like every time someone said upper east side... I pictured someone throwing up a gang sign! lol
And I also feel that you absolutely need to read the Cruel series to get who’s who in this book. I wouldn’t say this is a standalone. More like a continuation of that series.
I think it’s safe to say this book wasn’t for me.
*ARC provided for an honest review.*
(I was getting flash backs! lol the last book was hard for me.)
Oh man... I loved the 1st and 2nd book in that series. But the 3rd book. I didn’t enjoy it at all. And the Crew was a big part of not liking the book. So, Lark was one them.
I’m going to try and go into this book with an open mind. So I’m diving back in.
Ok... the upper east side once again is this entity in this book. Just like in the Cruel series. That was one of the things that got to me. Everything was upper east side this and upper east side that. Everything was blamed on it. I hated it.
“The only other person in our five-member crew who had gotten out of the Upper East Side cycle. He was a philosophy professor at Columbia, bucking all tradition, and trying to live the good life with his girlfriend, Natalie."
“Gavin came from old Texas oil money. He wasn’t Upper East Side rich,"
“I could play Upper East Side politics as well as he could.”
I just can’t. It felt like every time someone said upper east side... I pictured someone throwing up a gang sign! lol
And I also feel that you absolutely need to read the Cruel series to get who’s who in this book. I wouldn’t say this is a standalone. More like a continuation of that series.
I think it’s safe to say this book wasn’t for me.
*ARC provided for an honest review.*
February 12, 2020
4.5/5 !!!!
I actually can't believe I found a new na series with a group of friends to obsess over. I loved every single character and I can't wait to read their books (especially Katherine's). Lark and Sam were absolutely cute I'm so happy for them the epilogue was the perfect ending CANT WAIT FOR COURT AND ANNA'S BOOK LET'S GO
Reading this book was me trying to find every single detail about all the side characters cause I'm obsessed with all of them if I don't get their books I might just collapse you guys I swear
I know how book twitter loves this kind of books so you guys better start reading
I actually can't believe I found a new na series with a group of friends to obsess over. I loved every single character and I can't wait to read their books (especially Katherine's). Lark and Sam were absolutely cute I'm so happy for them the epilogue was the perfect ending CANT WAIT FOR COURT AND ANNA'S BOOK LET'S GO
Reading this book was me trying to find every single detail about all the side characters cause I'm obsessed with all of them if I don't get their books I might just collapse you guys I swear
I know how book twitter loves this kind of books so you guys better start reading
February 6, 2020
4.5 stars!!
I love it when KA Linde writes political. All of her books centered around election campaigns and political fights never fail to draw me in and keep me captivated, and The Lying Season was no different. This was a fantastic second chance love story with fantastic secondary characters that all add, add, add. I can't wait to read more from these characters.
I love it when KA Linde writes political. All of her books centered around election campaigns and political fights never fail to draw me in and keep me captivated, and The Lying Season was no different. This was a fantastic second chance love story with fantastic secondary characters that all add, add, add. I can't wait to read more from these characters.
May 17, 2020
KA Linde is an author that never lets me down.
Sam and Lark were outer perfection.
The drama. Friends. New York City. The past. The present. The pull. I devoured this story. This circle of friends has me so pulled into this series I’m not sure how I’ll be able to think about anything else. This was a great start to what I know will be an all out obsession.
Sam and Lark were outer perfection.
The drama. Friends. New York City. The past. The present. The pull. I devoured this story. This circle of friends has me so pulled into this series I’m not sure how I’ll be able to think about anything else. This was a great start to what I know will be an all out obsession.
March 31, 2020
Campaign/political books are so boring
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