Cul-de-Sac

by Liz Crowe

Welcome to Connelly Court. A secluded, old money neighborhood, harboring a web of desires and deceit behind pristine facades and manicured lawns, where the lives of a group of neighbors, bound by their shared secrets and unconventional lifestyle, are about to unravel.

Michael and Amelia Ross move into their dream home, and get drawn into the seductive allure. But their house once belonged to a family whose lives were seemingly ruined by their participation, which leads Amelia to question everything about her new-found friends. Suspicions run rampant as the close-knit group turns on each other. Lies, betrayals, and hidden agendas are revealed, ripping apart the fabric that once bound the group together.

“Cul-de-Sac” is a dark tale of marriage, friendship, desire, and betrayal, where nothing is as it seems, and the truth may be more shocking than anyone could have imagined. Discover the twisted secrets of Connelly Court in this chilling domestic suspense novel that will leave you questioning just how well you truly know—or should know—your neighbors.

Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Audiobook, Fiction

328 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 11, 2024

About the author

Liz Crowe is a Kentucky native and graduate of the University of Louisville living in South Carolina. She's spent her time as a three-continent expat trailing spouse, mom of three, real estate agent, brewery owner and bar manager, and is currently a digital marketing and fundraising consultant, in addition to being an award-winning author.

The Liz Crowe backlist has something for any reader seeking complex storylines with humor and complete casts of characters that will delight and linger in the imagination long after the book is finished.

Her favorite things to do when she’s not scrolling social media for cute animal videos is walk her dogs, cuddle her cats, and watch her favorite sports teams while scrolling social media for cute animal videos.

Reviews

[Jonetta · Rating 4 out of 5]

the setup…
When Amelia and Michael Ross move to Connelly Court, a cul-de-sac located in an affluent Michigan suburb, they believed it was their final dream home. They soon were invited into the close knit relationship of the other families in the secluded neighborhood led by power couple Janice and Allen Cooper. Their acceptance soon went well beyond the typical dynamics, introducing them to a lifestyle they’d never imagined.

the heart of the story…
Amelia and Michael have their own unconventional sexual lifestyle that I believed left them open to considering being a part of the Cooper’s seduction parties. It was interesting how all of the couples had agreements with their partners as to how these arrangements would work and to a couple, they all violated them rather easily and quickly (and secretly). The relationships between the women, the “alphas” of the arrangement, were tenuous at best but on the surface seemed friendly. It was even worse for the men. As exciting as it appeared, I could see the dark road ahead and how these relationships between the couples and their partners would be forever altered. And there’s a dark force among them that threatens them all.

the bottom line…
This story addressed the questions I’d always imagined about how couples participating in sex parties operated with each other and their partners in daylight. They were explored honestly and authentically. The suspicions and betrayal that arose should have been predictable but didn’t feel that way. The characters were well developed and stayed true to their natures. The pacing was slow as it took a long time to develop and was further bogged down by repetition and innocuous details. But, I’m still haunted by these people, which is a mark of a good story. While it has highly erotic tones, there aren’t any explicit scenes, which is truly remarkable. 3.5 stars

Posted on Blue Mood Café

(Thanks to the author for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)

[Chewable Orb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cul-de-Sac by Liz Crowe

Amelia and Michael Ross purchase a home in a welcoming Cul-de-Sac. With some renovations, it is everything they could have asked for. From afar things appear hospitable, but lying underneath the surface is a secret game of indulgences. A world full of lustful desires comes to the forefront, one which tests the resolve of each relationship within the neighborhood. Intertwined within a web of each other's perversions, the couples attempt to break free from the madness to save their relationships. Unfortunately for them, a situation occurs that brings them back into the fray. One that ultimately sparks dark secrets, betrayal, and even death. Which of the families will come out unscathed?

To be clear, this is a genre I don't normally consume. With my headlamp on, I descended deep into a cave of intrigue. I knew I should turn back for it was far too dangerous, but I had to know what was at the bottom of the cave. These sentiments stuck with me throughout this novel. I was reading an episode of Melrose Place, coated heavily in pheromones and sprinkled with a dash of paprika. I shouldn't be enjoying it, but I will be honest, I did. The author does an excellent job of weaving copious amounts of sexual encounters into an exciting who-dun-it. I found all of the characters to have equal contributions to the story, which kept the pages flying at a breakneck pace. It would be easy to dismiss the novel as just a piece of erotica and nothing more. However, there is more depth to be had here. The slices of mystery had me guessing until the end, with a few plot twists I wasn't expecting. I was heavily invested in each couple's trials and tribulations, lending to a more well-rounded reading experience.

In a nutshell, if you love your novels steamy with a penchant for lies, secrecy, and betrayal, this book is for you. I am a realist and acknowledge that the sexual landscape may be too much for others. As for myself, I generally look for one thing in a story, is it entertaining? I was met with a resounding "Yes!" after finishing the last page. For this, I am giving it 4 out of 5 stars⭐ Recommended!

[Leslie aka StoreyBook Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

This neighborhood needs to come with a warning or at least an upside-down pineapple flag.

This book sounded interesting from the synopsis, but once I got into it, I found all of the characters to be flawed in one respect or another. Whether it was their proclivities, dreams, or desires from life. Each character has their own secrets, which makes the interactions between the characters intriguing.

The story dances around the nature of the neighborhood. While you can read between the lines, it is about 1/3 of the way into the book before it is fully addressed. I will say that the author writes tasteful but steamy scenes. The scenes are also informative. We learn so much more about each character and their likes, dislikes, and insecurities. I will say that all the characters seem to be straight shooters. They are very upfront about what they do and what is required/expected from everyone in the neighborhood who participates. But they do have their secrets that they keep from each other. Even from their spouses. This causes some issues.

There there is the death of Tom Franks. Was it suicide or something else? It takes a bit before the whole truth is revealed. The answer might surprise you. Or maybe not.

While this is normally not my type of book (the steamy side, not the suspense portion), I was intrigued by the characters and the secrets surrounding them. Each chapter brought new secrets, lies, and motivations for the various characters. While I don't think I connected with any of them, I did feel like the story could happen anywhere. Who knows, you might have this sort of neighborhood in your area.

We give this book 4 paws up.

[Judy Morris · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought this book was good but a little slow. I finished it cause I said I would read it.

It did have so mystery to it so I wanted to know who did what! And I did but never figured out who did it!

Thank you Liz

[Nicole Bibliolau19 · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a story of a whole cul-de-sac of neighbors behaving badly, and it took some crazy twists and turns that kept me invested! While there were some aspects that creeped me out, Crowe did a great job of keeping it from completely flying off the rails. Though it was hard to really like any of these characters, my heart did go out to some of them and I'm glad there was a happy ending for a select few.

Crowe's talent is evident, and I'm excited to read more of her in the future!

[Vivian · Rating 4 out of 5]

At beginning of the story everything sounds normal between the occupants of the houses in the cul-de-sac. But boy, do appearances really are deceiving.
The couples do socialize but not in the sense that we are used to, there are hints that tell what they do among each other until you continue reading and the all click, the activities and actions point and as a matter of fact the reality is that they are swingers who enjoy each other very regularly.
A new couple moves into the one empty house in the cul-de-sac and they get the invitation to join this exclusive club, will they accept the invitation?
All the neighbors have their own secrets and agendas and they all break the rules of society and the rules of their group, they are petty, jealous, vengeful and selfish. And above all there's a big secret that unbeknownst to all the members of the group they are all a part of. One that when is discovered shattered their "perfect" group and sends everyone into a different life.
This was a different book from the ones I usually read and gave me a view of a lifestyle I don't normally read about, it was interesting because of the way the writer writes and her attention to details that makes the reader feel like part of the story.

[Sheila Samuelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 5 Stars!!
Review:
Thank you to Author's Marketing Experts for picking me to participate in this Book Tour for Liz's NEW THRILLER.

This was my first time reading a Thriller by Liz so I wasnt sure what to expect but I have to say I throughly enjoyed it. It had me 8n so many shocks and saying "WHAT?!" MULTIPLE TIMES that I wasnt sure what to expect.

At first I thought I knew WHO the killer was but shockingly I was wrong but in a good way since I don't like when Thrillers are predictable and I'm no glad this one wasnt.

The Characters were interesting to read about. Amelia, Cassie, Allen and Michael were definately my favorites.

The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like I was actually living in The Cul-de-sac community especially when the description was described.

I do hope there will be a Book 2 because I really would love to what other Secrets these neighbors have.

Overall a Phenomenal Thriller about a murder that took place in a Cul de sac !! Can't wait to read more by Liz in the future!!

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

OK - this was quite the interesting read for me. There are definitely some twisted secrets on Connelly Court.

Liz Crowe delivers a very intriguing story surrounding a swingers lifestyle and not just any one swinger's lifestyle, but a community of swingers and the rules they set for all to follow. But with lies, betrayal and ulterior motives, things are never what they seem.

I will not go any further with what happens in this book. It's a dark, twisted story that definitely keeps you right there in the thick of everything. But the pacing was what hurt this story for me.

The story has a very slow pace at the beginning, which was a bit of struggle for me. The characters aren't likeable, but that fits the vibe of this story so that felt purposeful. Once the story hits the crescendo, everything moves at a much faster pace - almost too quickly in my opinion.

Overall, the story was entertaining and kept me intrigued, even at it's slowest parts. And while I felt the ending was a bit rushed, I still enjoyed the overall story itself.

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a book unlike anything I have read! I was drawn to this book because I live in a cul-de-sac and we have parties together. We get together for Halloween festivities, 4th of July parties, murder mystery parties, sometimes Christmas parties, and I’ve gone on vacation with some of my neighbors. BUT – we aren’t neighbors like the people in this book are neighbors. We don’t participate in a swinger lifestyle! It was so interesting to read about that dynamic amongst these neighbors – what was acceptable, what wasn’t, and who broke the rules.

Mixed into that was the mystery of what happened to the previous neighbors whose house Michael and Amelia broke into. I love a good mystery, and this one was more than good – it was great! Nearly everyone was a suspect. Almost everyone had a reason. When it was finally revealed who was behind the mystery, I was absolutely floored. Especially because there was a chance for me to pick up on it in the book, but I failed!

I really enjoyed the multiple points of view that the author used in the book. I will say it took me a minute to get everyone straight, but once I got it, the multiple points of view made the pages fly by. I appreciated that there was a lot of swinger action, it was never too graphic.

I highly recommend this book!

[Stacey · Rating 3 out of 5]

First Bookclub meeting of 2025! Book was Cul de Sac by Liz Crowe. The premise of this book was interesting to me though I found it was a bit slow at times. It’s definitely a character rather than plot driven novel. it was difficult to keep all the characters straight in the beginning (maybe it needed a character chart). Sex is a major part of the book. Despite that, the scenes are not necessarily very graphic - I would never describe this as a smut read. There was a mystery (or two) that I was interested in finding out what had happened. I wish more time had been given to that and exploring some of the other plot elements and less time focusing on the couples’ sex lives. Overall, a quick read.

[Pam Page · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not sure I've ever read a "steamy" mystery prior to Cul-de-Sac but it's a page turner that offers a new topic in mysteries - sex parties! While it's not a topic I would choose to read about, the author keeps graphic details out and the mystery drives the story. A whole new way of looking at cul-de-sacs!

[Kearstin Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Neighbors with benefits

Mystery, thrill, suspense

A neighbor passes from suicide… or did he?

A new family moves into the neighborhood.. Will they join in on the activities, or will they be scared off?

This book poses a lot of questions and mysteries that have you on the edge of your seat. I could not read this fast enough. Such a well written book and the plot never faltered. I found this book to be quite interesting. Definitely recommend

[sammi_reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting book that explored a dangerous side to "the lifestyle". A neighborhood group of swingers finds themselves in trouble as secrets come out, mainly revolving around the suicide of a former member of their group several months prior. When they resume their get togethers, they find themselves changed and questioning certain extracurricular choices they made outside of their parties.

I thought this talked about swinging in a way that didn't oversensationalize, but addressed how various people handle jealousies within it. The rules they set make sense- if you follow them. And their reactions to what happened when most of them broke the rules made for a complex web to capture the reader's attention.

I did think the first 2/3 dragged a little, with everything being revealed suddenly in a rapid pick-up of pace in the last third. There were certain elements to the story (to avoid spoilers, I'm just hinting at what it is) with their businesses that came out at the end to add more secrets and motives, but that I didn't think added to the story or meshed in with the rest enough. Maybe if we had more of it from the start? That could help the pacing too. I think if we saw more of Laura, other than in confrontation mode, that maybe that would have tied it in better. I think she could have added a lot to the story earlier on.

The characters were mostly unlikable, but that worked so well within this story. I was invested in the ending. Overall, even with the pacing issues, I was taken in by this book.

Thank-you so much Liz Crowe and @therealbookgal for sending me a free copy to review. My opinions are unbiased and my own.

[Dylan Knox · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very beginning of Cul de Sac, there’s a feeling that something is going on just underneath the surface in this seemingly perfect neighborhood…

Told through multiple points of view of members of the neighborhood, we follow new neighbors as they move into a new house. The house is perfect. The neighborhood seems perfect. But this new house is vacant for a very ominous reason… The new neighbors are welcoming, but odd tensions are apparent from the very beginning. As what brings these neighbors together is revealed, we learn more about the many secrets that bind them together. Even after The Big Secrets of the neighborhood are revealed, the ominous feeling remains. Something is still not right… The ending of this book flies as it all unravels then comes back together in a short but satisfying ending.

Thank you to Liz Crowe for the advanced copy. My opinions are my own.

[Julie · Rating 1 out of 5]

I had hoped for something different, better when I selected this book. Give me a neighborhood, cul-de-sacs are even better, with a group of families and typically having kids of similar ages. Then toss in PTA duties, hunky husbands with jobs that require travel, gorgeous wives with roaming eyes, and secrets everywhere and I am happy. That's what I thought I was getting with this book. I mean come on, with the title of "Cul-De-Sac", how could it miss? But ugh, it really did miss.

The beginning was good, showing a woman who had a checklist for her life and was determined to buy this big house in this sought-after neighborhood, and the house had a definitely affordable price. Even after they learned that the husband of the previous family died in the bathtub, she was still very interested in the house. So they made an offer and learned the realtor also lived in the neighborhood - right across the street - and they are pleased to learn it was accepted immediately!

Okay, first chapter was good, fun, and I liked meeting this character, Amelia, and husband Michael. But soon after we switch p.o.v. and for most of the rest of the book, Amelia disappears from prominence and the story turns into a story about swinging neighbors. And apparently the realtor's job is to ensure that whenever a house becomes open in Connelly Court, she ensures that she finds attractive young people to buy the house to add to their swinger group. So, from this point on, most of the story is semi-drunk or doped women lusting after men who are not their husbands, and men who lust after women who are not their wives. And they all act on these lusty thoughts during the "after-parties".

Oh, right, they tossed in a death of the husband of the family who lived previous at Amelia's house, to try to make this a thriller or suspense?? I dunno, I started skimming. And then the widow shows up near the end toting a pistol because she's just mad, angry and a bit out of her mind.

I didn't like this book, the turn it took, not at all what I expected or wanted.

This is definitely not for me.

[Nicki Kendall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to voracious readers only for a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. This book was what I would call a domestic type of thriller, it felt like a darker version of Desperate Housewives with some twists I didnt anticipate and it was quite an addictive read. It is set in a cul-de-sac and once I was able to familiarise myself with all of the neighbours and who was married to who I was here for the scandals and the twists as they unfolded. We have Amelia and Michael Ross moving in to what they believe will be their final dream home. The neighbours seem lovely and friendly and all close knit with each other and really quite ideallic. They soon get invited into the close knit friendship group in the secluded neighborhood, led by power couple Janice and Allen Cooper. At this gathering they start to feel uneasy with all of the attention they are receiving from their other neighbours and rightfully so as we soon learn. I was caught up in the dynamics of each couples relationships and learning about their secrets and just how far some people will go to protect their secrets from being revealed. It was one of those reads where I kept wondering just what had led to the death of one of the neighbours (which we are made aware of very early in the book) and if everything was as ideallic as it all really seemed. If you like reading about people with secret hidden lives and dark secrets this book will definitely be a good read for you. I am still haunted by some of the neighbours in this cul-de -sac and I find myself wondering as much we may know our neighbours, do we ever really know them at all?! #lizrowe #cul-de-sac #bloodhoundbooks #goodreads #fable #thestorygraph #getlitsy #tea_sipping_bookworm #domesticthriller #bookqueen #bookstagram #voraciousreadersonly

[BooksBooksandmoreBooks69 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to admit, this isn’t my usual read. But the blurb sounded pretty interesting.
I definitely got stepford vibes. The perfect lawns, everything in its place…..

Michael and Amelia have moved into what seems like an idyllic setting. Amelia has lots of ideas and is determined to have this house as the next family home… Not even the death of the last owner is going to change her mind!

Multiple points of view to this story made it a little confusing at times, but give it a couple of chapters and you’ll know who is who.
I liked how we got to know each person as an individual, as well as a couple.

The swinging side of the book is covered, but unlike some authors, this one doesn’t harp on or dramatises it. It’s not for everyone, but it seems this little community has it all organised. Or do they? We see cracks in relationships, we see the strain of jealousy and dare I say, discontent in some of the characters. The death of a former swinger put the lifestyle on hold for a while. But once it restarts, you get the feeling it’s not the same as it was!

The secrets are slow to come to the surface, but once they start, it’s like an avalanche! Can Micheal and Amelia navigate it safely? Or will it rock their foundations?

It is a little slow paced for third of the book, but once it picks up, you’re left holding on for the bumpy ride! I felt we could have had more information at the beginning of the book. The last third of the book seemed a little rushed, but maybe that’s just me 🤷🏻‍♀️

That was not what I was expecting. Betrayal/twists/surprises/suspense and a murder to solve. The clues are there, will you guess it right?

🦋

[Susan Ballard (subakkabookstuff) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love domestic dramas, and this one is steamy, dark, and intense. Let’s say I may look at my neighbors differently now.

Amelia and Michael Ross move into their dream home on Connelly Court, a cluster of upscale homes on a quiet, secluded cul-de-sac.

Their neighbors quickly invite them to a party, and before they know it, they are enveloped in the secret swinger lifestyle of the cul-de-sac couples.

This book is not just about couples who like to share partners; it is a dark, twisted mystery. It opens with a husband from one of the original couple’s dead, and the wife has moved away, thus opening the house for the Ross family to move in. But questions swirl around his death.

The author did a fantastic job teasing out information about each couple and individual as the chapters progressed. We learn the intimacies of their relationships—with their spouses, children, and, of course, with the other couples. We see how they navigate this special lifestyle. We hear of the jealousy, the powerplays, and the favorites, but most importantly, we see that they are all rule breakers—and it has turned deadly.

These were characters I loved to dislike; they were infectious, like watching a juicy nighttime drama. Lies, secrets, and betrayals fill the pages of this sensual domestic mystery. Highly Entertaining!

Thank you @therealbookgal and @lizcroweauthor for a spot on tour and a gifted book.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm new to the audiobook world and I found this book easy to listen to. The narrator uses different voices to portray the different characters which at times can be a little confusing trying to remember who is currently speaking, but not too confusing as to not enjoy the story. The stories between the couples and their activities were easy to follow and you learn just how crazy things got between this small group of neighbors. I was surprised that newcomers Michael and Amelia would he so willing to dive into a alternative lifestyle but after their own story unfolds I was less so. This book has a lot of sex intermingled with the mystery of what really happened to neighbor Tom Franks. Just when you think you've figured it out by the vague hints the characters drop, the story gets more complicated and throws you for a loop. The characters divulge just enough for you to formulate your own theory without giving away the whole secret of what happened. There was a lot to unload at the end of the book and even to the very last minutes of the last chapter you're hanging on to learn all the answers to some burning questions. Being that I'm more of a reader of books and not so much a listener of them, I felt I would have read this book much faster than listening to the narration. I do like the ability to listen while completing other tasks, especially mundane ones all the while being entertained by an engaging story.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book took me for a wild ride. I have recently found my way back to reading and have come to find that I am drawn to the mystery, thriller and psychological genre. While the subject matter in the book was new to me, I was fascinated by each of the couples. Each had their own story yet they all were intertwined. It was curious, trying to dissect each of them to find a deeper understanding of their decisions and what made them tick.

I thought the story was told in a way that is not too overwhelming for someone who is not versed in the lifestyle. It was not graphic but contained a sensuality within the words that opened one’s mind to why the couples live as they do. I found myself constantly looking at several of the characters and trying to get deeper into their minds.

Admittedly, once the story got started, I was drawn to the book and kept ticking down the hours until I could pick it back up for more. I liked that there were several story plots going on at once and not just the group gatherings. With that said, there were a few times where I found myself confused about something happening in the plot line and I did wish that the end didn’t unfold itself so fast…..it felt like it was building up slowly and then all of a sudden, the end kind of exploded super fast, but I did like the final conclusion (I won’t say more about that because I don’t want to ruin it).

This was my first read by Liz Crowe. I am fascinated by the mind that was behind this story and very much look forward to reading another one of her books!!

[Chelsie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This read reminds you that you really don't know what goes on behinds closed doors, and do you really know your neighbors as well as you think you do? Amelia and Michael have found the perfect home and this is another item Amelia can check off her list of life goals. Perfect house, in a perfect neighborhood and when they get invited to the neighborhood bbq it seems they made the right decision. The next day they are questioning the party, the other neighbors at that party and were they correctly picking up on the hints and signals the others were sending? After a lunch invite for Amelia and golf outing for Michael, it becomes clear just how close these neighbors are and soon the two agree to become part of this group. But soon cracks start opening up, rules are broken and the death that had happened in the house they had purchased is getting looked at once again. When the widow appears and starts to stir up the past and what really happens in this neighborhood, things get out of control and Amelia and Michael are now questioning their decision to move to this place and who they have become because of it. This was an interesting read with the twist of murder and quite a bit of spice! Thank you to the author for the complementary novel and to Author Marketing Experts for the tour invite. This review is of my own opinion and accord.

[Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Review

This was a powerful and mesmerizing suburban thriller. The author's tension and atmosphere allowed the reader to feel transported, a fly on the wall as the characters found themselves drawn further into the complex world of seduction and power that this neighborhood had crafted for itself. The mystery behind the former occupants of the protagonists’s home and the use of multiple points of view throughout the book allowed the reader to peel back each layer of intrigue at a good pace.

Character development not only added to the mystery surrounding this novel but also helped elevate the exploration of what happens behind closed doors. The picturesque, quiet suburb that the novel initially portrays, as well as the protagonists who come across as the average American family with a clear picture of their future, all come through early in the novel, and yet the seduction parties and ways in which the characters grow and falter showcase the hidden nature of what is the classic “perfect American dream.”

The Verdict

Thrilling, shocking, and engaging author Liz Crowe’s “Cul-de-Sac” is a must-read thriller. The exploration of the American suburb and how lies and power dynamics can work in any setting, even a quiet American cul-de-sac, allowed the shocking twists and turns to hit the reader with a punch that will stay with them long after the book ends.

[Read, React, Repeat! Book Club · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was intrigued by the synopsis, but the book itself was extremely slow at the beginning, to the point where I was seriously considering giving it up and moving on to something more captivating. The story seemed to bounce all over the place, hinting at allsorts but never fully committing to anything.

Disappointingly, it didn't get much better as the story progressed. As the personalities and lifestyles of the various characters were revealed, it was obvious that they were an entitled, bored, arrogant bunch of too-rich people who engaged in deceit and daubachery while trying to convince themselves and others that their participation was not entirely consensual. They were neighbors who pretended to be friends - with benefits - even though they blatantly despised each other. What's worse is that even a questionable death within their group did nothing to deter them from their destructive ways. These were extremely unlikable characters, and I couldn't will myself to dredge up even the slightest bit of sympathy over the ludicrous predicaments they each ultimately found themselves in. Except, of course, for their poor children!

I finished the book...because I'd committed to doing just that. Or was I maybe hoping for some mind-blowing revelation that would somehow knock them all out of their greed-induced delusional states?

Enter Laura Franks...!

[Hannah B · Rating 1 out of 5]

I was given a review copy of this book in return of my honest feedback. Whilst I didn’t enjoy this book, hence the low rating, it was purely just because I don’t enjoy these type of stories. This book was quite well written and would be perfect for someone who enjoys complex storylines and character connections with some NSFW drama.

As you start this book you can tell there is some innuendo towards something that is going on between all the neighbours in the cul-de-sac, but as the book goes on and more and more information is let out you start to realised how deep all the secrets lie.

I also found it a bit ironic how all the characters thought that their neighbours were perfect and had their live together, where really they were just as messy and had just as many secrets, which I feel is a true reflection of society today, especially with social media. How many times have you thought a person had their life perfectly together and that yours was a mess, when really they thought that your life was perfect and they were struggling just as much as you?

I did find it a little difficult to figure out who was who at some points as there are a lot of characters that are introduced quite quickly, however all the characters were interesting and had different personalities and back stories that were introduced along the way.

[January Bain · Rating 5 out of 5]

FIRST THOUGHTS: Liz Crowe is a natural born storyteller. She weaves layered stories with realistic settings and clever plots, filled with characters who come alive on the page, true to real life. Her lively, curious mind and love of her craft shine from each book and the exciting twists she puts on things makes her stand out in her field. Read her and see!
January Bain/storyteller.

Cul-De-Sac by Liz Crowe review:

Cul-De-Sac is a slow burn of a book that grabs you from the first page and won’t let go long past bedtime! What on earth are these people thinking? I asked myself that many times, disgusted with their behavior while glued to the page to find out what the real deal was.

Liz Crowe is the master of showing the deceitful nature of people thinking they’re so above things they aren’t accountable to the mere minions of the world. She understands character and they read as real people. People you may not want to know, but are quite intriguing from the safety of your own home! Thank you for an excellent read, Liz Crowe, that combines great characters with a complicated plot that twists and turns right before the reader’s eyes.

Five Stars!

[Kallie Street · Rating 5 out of 5]

A neighborhood (cul-de-sac) of very tight knit neighbors who are all rich & modest by day, but the opposite by night. One of the neighbors is a real estate agent whose client buys a house on the cul-de-sac. Said house had an unfortunate event happen before they buy it. Those new neighbors get sucked into the neighborhood BBQ and quickly realize that these aren’t your normal neighbors. Something is just off. They soon get sucked into weekly late night parties and have to decide if they like it or want to get far, far away!

I loved how this book switched between all of the different neighbors’ viewpoints at different times. It definitely made the book more interesting.

This was one I could NOT put down. I couldn’t believe how open the neighbors all were with each other (quite literally) my jaw dropped not once, not twice, probably not even three times. I lost count.

This book had secrets, lies, deceit, murder, suicide, literally a web of all of that tangled together. I enjoyed this read very much!!

For full disclosure, this was given to me as an ARC, & this is my honest review!

[Jean · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Neighborly Secrets. Deadly Desires.”

In Cul-De-Sac you're following Amelia and Michael who are house shopping in what seems to be a nice little neighborhood.
Amelia has her head in the clouds, the realtor is trying to discuss things with her about the house and so is her husband, Michael. But, Amelia is so very obviously spoiled and wants everything her way or nothing at all doesn't want to listen to anything. It's not until after she gets her husband to go ahead and sign the paperwork for the house that she finally listens and learns someone died in the house. And, it was quite gruesome.

But, Amelia, wanting to have it her way, pushes through wanting to have a nice house, nice neighborhood, and nice little family. She is too naive to realize that the neighborhood is full of very deadly secrets and that sweet realtor might be a big problem. The neighbors are strange and alot happens all at once (in my opinion) But, at this point can you really trust anyone? You'll have to read this book and discover what secrets are best left unknown.

(Snippet of my review)

[Maven Reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cul-de-Sac: Neighborly Secrets. Deadly Desires by Liz Crowe delivers a compelling dive into the hidden complexities of suburban life, where seemingly perfect facades conceal a web of desires and deceptions. The novel expertly crafts an atmosphere of suspense, drawing readers into the close-knit community of Connelly Court. Through multiple perspectives, Crowe gradually unveils the intricate dynamics between the neighbors, revealing their secrets and hidden agendas. The tension builds effectively, making it a page-turner that explores the darker side of seemingly idyllic neighborhoods.

Crowe's character development is a strong point, allowing readers to become invested in the lives of the residents. The exploration of themes like marriage, friendship, and betrayal adds depth to the narrative, raising questions about trust and the true nature of relationships. Overall, Cul-de-Sac is a thrilling and thought-provoking read that will leave you questioning how well you truly know your neighbors.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Liz Crowe tosses us into this weird world with Amelia and Matthew, and we have to keep reading to figure it all out. Please be advised: this is not a romance. There is love and romance present, but it is not the focus of this story. The focus is on deception, evil, insanity and how easy it is to get sucked into other people's agendas. It also deals with what people do to protect themselves and the people they love, no matter how disturbed those actions may be. Honesty, or the lack thereof, is also a significant theme. Michael and Emily are lucky to be the newcomers since they do not have the years of deception to overcome and can see things more clearly.
I love how obvious things are not stated openly at first, but hints are dropped for us to pick up and hold for later. This was a book I kept thinking about long after I finished it, and I know I will re-read it soon.
I received an ARC from the author and gladly left this review.

[Novels Alive · Rating 5 out of 5]

Neighborly love takes on a completely different meaning for the residents of Connelly Court, an upscale community.

Author Liz Crowe moves a new couple into the neighborhood, putting them into a home where a tragedy had taken place. Little do they realize the circumstances leading to it. Cul-de-Sac focuses on the messiness of relationships among five couples and the consequences of crossing boundaries.

As the story unfolds, readers are introduced to the residents. The newbies, eager to fit in, have their own problems without borrowing any from their neighbors. However, it’s a community where sexual appetites are high, and drunken parties tend to blur marital lines.

Tensions erupt, exposing secrets of betrayal and deception. Add a touch of revenge for an incredibly twisted plot that will capture your attention.

Cul-de-Sac delves into the spicy side of life, where neighbors borrow a lot more than a cup of sugar. ~ Amy for Novels Alive