Beautiful Beth Scott thinks she has life all figured out until her boyfriend of two years cheats on her. Determined to leave the good girl lifestyle behind, she hits a random nightclub, ready to splurge on the best liquor money can buy.
But when a mysterious, hot stranger with flirty smiles and charming dance steps approaches her, dancing turns to more. And soon, he’s proposing an outlandish offer.
One night in his bed to forget her ex.
It’s day one of her life as a reformed good girl, so she accepts. But one night of no-strings-attached fun turns into something more, trapping her in a reality where werewolves exist with the ludicrous discovery that she’s fated to two Alphas.
ONE IS A LIE is the first book in the She Belongs To The Alphas trilogy, and it ends on a cliffhanger. OIAL is a dark werewolf shifter interracial romance featuring over the top billionaire MMCs, who fall first and hard for the virgin FMC. And they will not hesitate to hurt you if you so much as glance at their fated mate. Suitable for 18+ audience because of explicit sexual and graphic violence content.
4.5/5⭐️ rounded up — 3🌶️ One Is a Lie is a dark, spicy shifter romance that takes some unexpected turns—and I was here for it. While it doesn’t lean heavily into traditional shifter worldbuilding, it makes up for it by diving deep into the emotional core of the FMC. I loved how the story centered her humanity—her feelings, doubts, and the emotional weight of being part of a fated mate bond.
The spice is definitely present (yes, including knotting), but there’s also a thoughtful exploration of what it means to be claimed, desired, and emotionally overwhelmed. Later in the book, a second MMC is introduced, and I really appreciated that the narrative didn’t immediately veer into a typical MFM setup. Instead, the story gives space to explore the tension and complexity of introducing a second mate—without rushing into resolution.
One thing that didn’t quite work for me was Waylan Ezra Parker, the first MMC. In many dark romances, the intense, stalker-like behavior is romanticized—but here, that angle isn’t pushed as hard. On one hand, I missed that slightly irrational swooning over a dark, broody book boyfriend. But on the other, I appreciated the fresh take. It made me think more critically about those tropes and the dynamics we often gloss over.
The book ends on a cliffhanger, so prepare yourself for that emotional punch. Still, I enjoyed the ride and I’m definitely intrigued enough to pick up the next installment.
If you’re into dark romance with a shifter twist and emotional complexity, this one’s worth checking out.
One is a Lie is the first book in an upcoming trilogy where Beth Scott finds herself mated to not one, but two alpha werewolves… who just happen to be rivals! The problem… she doesn’t know werewolves exist!
This story had me hooked from the very beginning! When Beth finds out her boyfriend is cheating on her, she finds herself running into the arms (and bed) of stranger Waylen Parker. Little does she know, that night will be the beginning of a very tumultuous relationship with Waylen that will unknowingly put her life in danger!
Enter Malik Sterling… rival werewolf alpha to Waylen and a hunter… he’s never expected to have a mate, better yet a human who is already mated to another werewolf!
This book will keep you on your toes and wondering what’s going to happen next! I absolutely loved the drama, the spice, and the suspense! I can’t wait to learn/see more about Malik and how Beth is going to navigate being fated to two werewolves who don’t like to share! If you love:
🐺 fated mates 🐺 possessive/obsessive MMCs 🐺 touch her/look at her & die 🐺 rival alphas
Don’t pass up this book! I’m eagerly awaiting book 2 because that cliffhanger….. 🤯
I love a good wolf shifter romance and I definitely loved this. It does say MFM, but honestly it’s giving more love triangle, at least in this book. And we don’t meet the second mmc until late in the book. Really the first half of the book is her having a one night stand and he’s cruel to her the next morning. Then she finds out he is her boss's son Waylen, and her boss just passed so now Waylen is her boss. They’re fated mates but honestly he's such an a-hole. One second he’s possessive, next he’s sweet, then he shuts her out, and we repeat the cycle. It does get better later but he’s like that the majority of the book. I still loved him even though I wanted to scream at him half the time. There’s just something about possessive, manipulative alpha males that make me swoon. Malik was also so cute, even though they’re not polyamory yet, I can see it happening. It would be so perfect! Also the way he tricked her into accepting the mate bond and knotting her???? I enjoyed this and can’t wait for the next one. I give this a 4/5
At first, I hated Waylen and his Alphahole personality, but then I learned more about him. I’m still not his biggest fan as I can’t stand males that are controlling as he is, but I don’t hate him anymore.
The fmc, Beth, is so stubborn and I love it! I’m so glad she is able to finally let loose and do what she wants now that Ian is gone (I hate that guy).
I haven’t decided on my feelings about Malik, but I’m liking him more than Waylen for now! I like that he doesn’t treat Beth like absolute trash, and that he seems to be trying his best to treat her with kindness and respect.
I can’t wait to read book two and see what happens 😍
Great Shifter Read but don't expect them the MMC to be a nice wolf 😏
Firstly, characters... I have to vent this out!
The first part of the book, I really wasn't sure how to feel about the MMC Waylen. Actually, I couldn't stand him. He was a total Alphahole and I hated his character... When we got further into the book and we got to see more from his POV, you could understand his actions somewhat. However, personally, I still didn't like his character - a very controlling, possessive Alpha and not always in a good way.
The FMC Beth, is just a typical working class gal that could be you or your best friend, she lives a "normal" life. Until in walks Waylen and flips her world - both in good and not so good ways. The spice is hot and the chemistry is great between them mostly. Sooo glad she got more than one hotty.
Then we get to see a wee bit more of Malik and his POV as we progress further... I'm 'Team Malik' 💯. He is the strong, supportive Alpha who isn't a complete dïck to our FMC nor use that for his brain. Stalking her to keep her safe instead of controlling.
The plot and storyline were fab! It flowed well and keeps you invested in the book... It's hard to put down once you start. I read this in 1 day!! There is a cliffhanger but it won't he a huge wait for book 2! Who will she choose? Will it be both or one of them?.. I need to know 🫣
Tropes/Triggers - MF/M, both MMCs fall first, forced proximity, dub-con, werewolves, shifters x human, fated mates, mate bond, knotting, virgin FMC, stalking, unaliving, chöpped bödy pärts, unhinged alphas.
One Is a Lie is a sizzling, fast-paced entry into the world of dark shifter romance that will leave readers breathless, blushing, and absolutely hooked. This first installment in the She Belongs to the Alphas trilogy wastes no time plunging into the action—both sensual and supernatural—and promises a wild ride full of passion, danger, and jaw-dropping twists.
Beth Scott is a protagonist you can’t help but root for. Reeling from betrayal and ready to rewrite her story, her transformation from good girl to risk-taker is both relatable and satisfying. But her impulsive night out turns into something far more than a rebound—introducing her to a hidden world of powerful werewolves, fated mates, and an alpha-level love triangle that’s as steamy as it is dangerous.
The chemistry between Beth and her mysterious new suitors is electric from the start. These billionaire Alphas are possessive, intense, and unapologetically obsessed with their mate—a dynamic that fans of dark romance will devour. The story doesn’t hold back on heat or high stakes, and just when you think you’ve got the plot figured out, a twist barrels in like a freight train.
The writing is bold, the world-building tantalizing, and the cliffhanger? Absolutely brutal—in the best way. It perfectly sets the tone for what promises to be an even more explosive second installment.
If you’re looking for a romance that’s dark, dominant, and drenched in supernatural allure, One Is a Lie delivers. Just be warned: once you enter Beth’s world, there’s no going back. This is a guilty pleasure read turned full-blown obsession—and yes, one is definitely a lie, but which one? You’ll have to keep reading to find out.
Beth is just a human woman with no clue about werewolves even though she had been working for one. So when her boss passes and she finds herself working for his son, a man she had given her V card too.
I love a good shifter romance but I was surprised at how little this woman could put together. She barely questions the weird things going on.
The first MMC is a huge alphahole and I was really getting mad at him. Like make a choice and stick to it because his moods are like whiplash. He wants to show the council that it isn't bad to mate to humans but how can he make it okay without risking lives?
When the second MMC enters the picture everything gets real. These two men are rivals. He also can't believe his mate would be a human since he works for the council.
I absolutely need to know what happens next. How will these relationships go forward from here? What about the threats going forward? I'm so invested and need more.
Beth sweet and naïve-ish FMC, Waylon Ezra = broody morally blac/grey MMC, and a broody enforcer named Malick.
Breakups and Drinking never go well together, normally bad choices made all around. so many poor decisions, and the choice is hilarious to read about. I love how the story is coming together. I did not see that plot twisting coming, not from a mile away. WOW.
Ahh the Cliff Hanger is to much, I was wondering how Malick was gonna fit in the story and I loved the turns everyone took to get to the ending.
Key points in no particular order: – interracial – shifters – cheating – Death – Plot twists – dub/non consent – blood & knife play – fated mates – knotting – Multi POV – Upset her and Die/or severe extreme pain – morally black MMC – Morally grey MMC
I must say this... 😲🥹😍🤨🤯💀 These emojis sum up my emotional state. But with Waylen involved, I have to put it into words. This man had me feeling everything all at once. I’m not even sure it’s good for my heart. And honestly, he met his match in Beth, because that woman is stubborn as hell.
This story is unique in its own way. It gives us time to understand the first male lead, to getto know him before we meet the second. That pacing is rare, and it works so well here. The ending? I'm on an edge. I’m both excited and anxious for Book 2, because if the glimpse of Malik is anything to go by, I already know he’s going to steal hearts.
I enjoyed this book. It’s intense, emotional, and exciting.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this, and I love the dark side of things. Why wouldn't I? I look forward to reading Book 2. I want more. I enjoyed the story to the core.
For the cliffhanger, it's just spot on. I didn't expect that turn of events. I need to read Book 2 to know what happened. Why were the two men there? Who were they? Who sent them? How did Malik get there? Waylen? There's a lot to unpack. Someone has to have a good explanation for what happened back at Beth's house. Would the police come? Just what?
Finally, I'm not sure I want to see Malik and Beth together, but I never know until I get to Book 2.
This is a solid story from an efficient mind. I loved the details. I loved the short, fast-paced sentences. They haunted my eyes.
I read this book a while ago, and it’s stuck with me ever since—which says a lot. Even though it’s been some time, I still remember how drawn I was to the world and characters. The way the story blended supernatural tension with emotional depth really stood out. The werewolf dynamics, the mystery, and the romance were handled in a way that kept me turning the pages.
It’s clear the author poured a lot of heart into this book, and it shows in the relationships, the pacing, and the way everything came together. I’m excited to revisit it again soon and recommend it to anyone who enjoys a well-crafted paranormal story with strong emotions and unforgettable moments.
This is my first time reading a book by this author and I loved every single minute of it. I will definitely be reading more. It was a really great start to the trilogy. I just couldn't put it down once I started. I was hooked. It's a wild rollercoaster ride with twists and turns, you don't see coming. It will keep you on the edge of your seat. It's action packed, spicy, dark, and so delicious. It's got some surprises along the way. The character, storyline and plot where wonderfully written and awesome. I was not expecting that ending, that was a gut punch for sure. I can't wait for the next book I need it like yesterday. Highly recommend.
One is a Lie is a hot, spicy shifter romance that is much more than a shifter book! It delves on the meaning of humanity, love, and the core root of the fated mate bond! Exceptionally done as it navigates the feeling and emotions of truly accepting being really and deeply loved! I felt all the angst, the drama, the desire, and all the complex feelings! Brilliantly written with strong characters, a strong and twisty turny story line, and all the delicious spice you want!!! It does end on a cliffhanger, so be prepared!
One is a Lie is an exceptional werewolf shifter romance book, packed with so much delicious spice.
Personally, I could not get enough, and read this in two sittings.
I loved the strong characters in this and the undeniable chemistry between them, the spice, the drama, the tension and the fated mates storyline.
I also found the addition of a second MMC far into the book very interesting. The story ends on a cliffhanger and I am gasping for more. I can’t wait to see where book two takes me because I know which team I stand on at the end of book one…
One is a Lie was unexpectedly surprising and captivating from the start. The FMC was complex, and her emotional journey was compelling. While I wanted more from her connection with the first MMC, it was still full of tension and steam. Once another MMC was introduced but not yet fully invested in the plot, the vibe between all characters is beginning to shift and I can't wait to see what happens next, as it ended on a heart pounding cliffhanger.
This was the first book I’ve read by this author. It did not disappoint. I love a great werewolf story. This featured Beth. She was an assistant to Mr Parker. She loved working for him. He ran a security company. Beth had a boyfriend of 3 years Ian. One day he called her and broke up with her. She was mad so she went to his apartment to see if he was there. He wasn’t so she did some damage to his home and some property. She went to a club that night and this is where she met Waylon. I loved everything about this book.
Beth is a human but finds herself mated to not 1 but 2 alpha werewolf shifters after she finds her boyfriend of 5 years Ian cheating on her. She runs into the arms of Waylen at a nightclub, and he is her bosses son, and then he becomes her boss. Beth also caught the eye of her other fated mate Malik, and he is the rival of Waylen. Waylen isn't the nicest to Beth, but he is tryin to keep her safe. Her 2nd alpha werewolf mate didn't come into play til later in the book. This book does end on a cliffhanger. This is a very good fast read, and I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
Oh mylanta! Mara?! What are you doing with my heart?! I instantly need an alpha and need to all the Exra vibes (shhh don’t tell my husband). I was so intrigued by this storyline, from the spice to the aggression and everything in between. I’m usually not one for dominating males because it triggers an anxiety of fear I have with DV but this wasn’t overly intense in that aspect. I also haven’t been one for werewolve stories but his book has completely changed my mind and outlook so I will be looking for more stories just like this one. I can’t wait to read book 2.
This is definitely one of the most interesting, well written shifter romances that I’ve read (I haven’t read many, tbf). I love the characters, they’re so strong and relatable. Having a second MMC come later into the story was different and changed the dynamic in the best way. I love the drama and tension, and the spiiiiiice.
Thank you for the ARC! I loved every bit of it and can’t wait for the next book!
Beth Scott is stunning and she thinks that she's finally got her life figured out. At least until she learns that her boyfriend of two years is cheating on her. Now she's ready to break free, leave the good girl life behind her. So she hits the town choosing a random nightclub, ready to indulge in the best liquor my hard-earned money could buy.
Soon a mysterious, dangerously hot, and flirty stranger with smiles and all the right dance steps approaches Beth, and dancing soon turns to so much more. And even sooner, he's offering Beth this out-of-this-world offer.
Spend one night with him, in his bed, all to forget her ex.
She's a reformed good girl, it's day one in her new life, she she happily accepts. But, that night of no strings attached, the night of just fun and laughs turns into so much more. It is the night that traps her in a new reality, a reality where werewolves are real, and she's faced with a life-changing discovery, she's fated to two Alphas.
ONE IS A LIE is book one in Mara Martha's SHE BELONGS TO THE ALPHAS trilogy, and it does end on a cliffhanger. OIAL is a dark werewolf shifter interracial romance that features an over-the-top billionaire MMC, who's going to fall first for the FMC. And believe it or not, if you even look at their mate they will hurt you. This series is suitable for 18+ readers due to the explicit sexual and graphic violence content and scenes.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and consider the triggers before reading this book. Your mental health always comes first.
I love the tropes that Mara Martha used in this book: MFM, Both MMCs Fall First, Forced Proximity, Dub-Con, Werewolves, Shifters x Human, Fated Mates, Mate Bond, Knotting, Virgin FMC, Stalking, Unaliving, Unhinged Alphas.
One Is A Lie by Mara Martha is the first book in Mara's She Belongs To The Alphas series. This is a dark shifter romance that is fast-paced that is going to leave you absolutely breathless, blushing at times, and no matter what, you are going to be hooked. And Mara takes no time in jumping into the action, both spicy and supernatural, and with that she gives us the promise that you are in for a wild emotional ride that is going to be full of all the spice, danger, and twists and turns that you could ever want.
Beth Scott is an FMC you can't help but cheer for. She's reeling from the betrayal of learning her ex had cheated on her and now she wants to rewrite her own story and she doesn't want to remain the good girl and she wants to start taking risks. But, that first night out, that first night out in her new life, it turns into something so much more than just rebounding, she's suddenly thrust into the world of werewolves, fated mates, and an alpha-level love triangle. And it's a triangle that is as spicy as it is as it is dangerous.
From the get-go we can see the chemistry between Beth and this mysterious paramour, it's absolutely electric, it jumps off the page and gives you goosebumps. And what's more, these alphas are billionaires and they are possessive, intense obsessed with their mate and if you are a fan of dark romance, you're going to devour this.
This book doesn't hold back on any of the high stakes, and trust me, when you think that you have the plot figured out, there's going to be a twist or a turn and flip you over and changes it all, and barrel you over like a 747.
Mara Martha's writing is bold and mesmerizing. The world that she's built is absolutely stunning and crafted perfectly.
One Is A Lie delivers on the dark romance, and dominance, drenched in all the supernatural allure. But, you have to know that once you enter Beth's world you're never going to be able to leave it. This world is going to become your obsession, and yes, there is one lie, but you are going to have to figure out which lie is the actual lie.
And then there's that Cliffhanger. Oh my God! That was so brutal. But, it was brutal in the perfect way and it sets up everything for what promises to be an explosive second book and I am all in for it.
One is a lie by Mara Martha is a werewolves shifter romance. Where the fmc is a human and has no idea about werewolves, even though she comes to have 2 faded mates I like the banter between the two main characters and the spice and drama throughout the book. Even though it ends on a cliffhanger, but it just makes me want to read the second one So much more. -If you like 🐾 fated mates ×2 🐾 possessive/obsessive MMCs 🐾 touch her die 🐾 enemies alphas
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I wrote it. So, I guess that counts. Now, onto figuring how to claim this account as an author.
One is a Lie is the first book in She Belongs to the Alphas trilogy. It features: - werewolf shifters - fated mates - office romance - forbidden love - a MF couple that grows into MFM - BWWM couple from the throuple - forced proximity
I would probably rate this one closer to 3.5 or 3.75 but will round up to 4 stars. I did enjoy the story overall, but struggled with it at the same time. It could just be my own personal TWs, but I did not care for Waylon very much. Beth also seemed to be easier influenced. I am hoping that my opinion changes in the next book.
This wasn’t a bad book. But to spend 380+ pages hating the MMC is ROUGH. Dude has ZERO redeeming qualities. I love a good fated mate trope. In fact it’s my top 3 favorite tropes. I devour fated mates. Because they’re supposed to be your equal. Your partner. Your everything. Not someone you mistreat. No someone you hurt and lie to. I will read book 2 for Malik. And for Malik only…
Woah this book took me on a bit of if a ride. I really enjoyed the beginning, then it was good but a bit slow. But the last bit of the book was so good and then that ending! I'm dying to dive into the next book.
this was an amazing read! Could not put it down and was thinking about it when I wasn't able to read. Can't wait for book 2. That cliffhanger is stressing me out.