Compulsive

Liar #1

by Lia Fairchild

Lies hurt. Lies destroy.

But some lies protect. Gray Donovan is a compulsive liar using it as a defense mechanism to survive her shattered past.
When she starts seeing therapist Daniel Harrison, she can no longer deny the truths that have plagued her for so many years. She must now stand and face them. Opening up to Daniel leaves her exposed and vulnerable. When her soul is bared to him, she can’t contain the attraction or the feelings he elicits.

Daniel feels drawn to his new patient, but he knows he will have to fight it in order to resurrect Gray from her demons. His will and his judgment are tested as he battles his own doubts…and faces his own secrets.

**Content Warning: Due to language and sexual situations, this book is intended for 18+ Only**

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, New Adult, Contemporary, Forbidden Love, Fiction, Dark

314 pages, Paperback

First published April 12, 2015

About the author

Lia Fairchild writes romance and women's fiction. Fans of her books praise her endearing, real characters who come to life in stories that will touch your heart.

Fairchild is addicted to the warmth of Southern California and holds a bachelor's degree in journalism and a multiple-subject teaching credential. She is a wife and mother of two children.

Amazon amazon.com/author/liafairchild

Look for updates on her and her books at http://www.liafairchild.com or follow her on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/liafairchild/ or Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/lia.fairchild...

Books by Lia Fairchild
Building Bridges (Bridges Brothers Book1)
Broken Bridges (Bridges Brothers Book2)
Compulsive
Liar
Circle in the Sand
In Search of Lucy
Emma vs. the Tech Guy
Vigil-Annie
High Maintenance
Home for Christmas
Special Delivery

Reviews

[SueBee★bring me an alpha!★]

FREEEE! LOVE DOCTOR PATIENT!

Book 1 of 2
FREE! (limited time) | AMZ US | AMZ UK |
Blurb:
Lies hurt. Lies destroy.
But some lies protect. Gray Donovan is a compulsive liar using it as a defense mechanism to survive her shattered past.
When she starts seeing therapist Daniel Harrison, she can no longer deny the truths that have plagued her for so many years. She must now stand and face them. Opening up to Daniel leaves her exposed and vulnerable. When her soul is bared to him, she can’t contain the attraction or the feelings he elicits.
Daniel feels drawn to his new patient, but he knows he will have to fight it in order to resurrect Gray from her demons. His will and his judgment are tested as he battles his own doubts…and faces his own secrets.

Books in Liar duet should be read in order:
Book 1: Compulsive
Book 2: Liar

[Carol (StarAngel's Reviews) Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book – Compulsive (Liar, Book 1)
Author – Lia Fairchild
Publication Date –May 12, 2015
Genre –New Adult
Type – Part of Series
Cliffhanger – Yes
Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.


My Thoughts - Story
When I first received this book to review, I thought I had never read anything from Ms. Fairchild before. It was a surprise when I realized that, in fact, I did ---- I reviewed a short story of hers in the NightTides Anthology and go figure it was one of my favorites of the bunch. So, I couldn’t wait to get my claws into this one.



Holy shit…what a freaking intense book that I couldn’t put down. Yes, there were times I wanted to smack the shit out of Gray and even Daniel. In fact, Daniel really pissed me off toward the end of the book while Gray was starting to be my hero!

The development of the characters was perfect for Gray but I would have liked to have a bit more about Daniel…but I guess that comes with the second book….

And talking about the second book…that is why I took off a half star…WTH, Ms. Fairchild – you left me hanging out to dry with that ending. I am so hoping you are typing away and getting ready to release the 2nd book.

Oh, and don't even get me started on the tears I shed while reading this...it gutted me!



Re-Cap
Gray has a problem stemming from her past but she is too stubborn or scared to rehash her childhood and come to terms with her ghosts. Her main problem is her compulsive lying that gets her in tons of trouble. When her current therapist leaves the practice, Gray is suddenly drawn to Daniel who promises to help her.

But do these two have ulterior motives? Can they fight the attraction for each other?

Reason for Reading – Author Request
Story – 5 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  4 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 4 out of 5 Stars
HEA (Spoiler) – Don’t know yet
Would Read More from Author? Yes
Recommend To – Readers who love a lot of angst and tear jerkers

For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways

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Blurb:
Lies hurt. Lies destroy.

But some lies protect. Gray Donovan is a compulsive liar using it as a defense mechanism to survive her shattered past.
When she starts seeing therapist Daniel Harrison, she can no longer deny the truths that have plagued her for so many years. She must now stand and face them. Opening up to Daniel leaves her exposed and vulnerable. When her soul is bared to him, she can’t contain the attraction or the feelings he elicits.

Daniel feels drawn to his new patient, but he knows he will have to fight it in order to resurrect Gray from her demons. His will and his judgment are tested as he battles his own doubts…and faces his own secrets.

**Content Warning: Due to language and sexual situations, this book is intended for 18+ Only**

[Gitte TotallyBookedBlog · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘…lies spilled from my lips as easy as the breath from my lungs. I bathed in deceit.’

This is my first book by Lia Fairchild and I’m definitely looking forward more from this Author! I can’t wait to get to book two in this series as the writing was addictive and the characters interesting and enigmatic. It did take me a while to fully get into this story as I found it hard to connect to the slightly aloof and almost cold characters. However, I suddenly reached a point where there was no chance of putting the story down as I felt an emotional connection and an increasing want to understand and find out what was going to happen. The writing which felt a tad stilted and forced to begin with suddenly flowed and the momentum, intensity and intrigue picked up.

“I can’t watch you do this to yourself any longer.”

We follow Gray, a complex young woman whose past is affecting her every move, thought and behaviour as she lies her way through life. To begin with we get mere crumbs on what makes her who she is and it’s quite a slow build hence why I was struggling to empathise and connect. She confused me and I was hard pushed to really understand what the deal was. One area that kept me in her corner was her relationship with the young girl who lived in her building who she seemed to ‘mother’ in many respects. Gray’s story truly begins when she ends up with her new yet reluctant therapist; Daniel.

“I want to know that when I speak, my words are genuine…and from my heart.”

Daniel was a bit of an enigma and I wish we’d had a bit more character development of him but I get that this was Gray’s story first and foremost. What I did fall for was his almost tortured persona in the face of him healing another. This gorgeous man has an air of haunted mystery which I can’t wait to unravel.

“We’re all human. We all love and hurt and rise and fall.”

I loved the relationship build and bravo Lia Fairchild for taking a story and showing that less is more and that we need to repair what’s broken before we can truly give ourselves. I loved that time was taken and restraint emphasized in order to show that something truly beautiful can come from something strained and cracked. Compulsive is a story of vulnerability, soul searching and survival. It’s about showing what lies beneath as well as honest compassion. I can’t wait for the second book in this series. Whilst Compulsive has a cliffy; it’s definitely one you’ll be able to live with!

“When life kicks the shit out of you, you’re bound to change.”

**Reviewed from an ARC copy provided by the author, with thanks**

♦♦♦♦




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[Marla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Lia Fairchild for providing me with an early copy of this book!

Anyone who follows me in any capacity knows that I generally enjoy Lia Fairchild’s novels and short stories. I would recommend any of her books to just about anyone who likes to read. Compulsive has now joined the ranks of her other stories and I’ll tell anyone who listens to read it.

Labeled Romance, I was leery in the beginning because I typically am not a huge fan of the genre. I’ll read them occasionally, but they aren’t often a go-to for me. But Fairchild broke the mold and I absolutely adored it. Typical of Fairchild’s work, she made the genre her own and it really worked – creativity and fabulous writing just ooze from the novel.

Fairchild’s well-developed characters have some of the same issues seen in other romance stories – tortured love, unrequited love, and even sketchy pasts, but let me tell you, this isn’t your mother’s or your grandmother’s romance and it isn’t a swoony, drippy, loaded-with-sex sap fest. This thing has some serious substance and intensity (and no, I am not slamming books that have all that other stuff – they just aren’t for me).

The main characters have secrets – it is clear that there is something going on from the very beginning and the suspense is almost palpable. I was flipping pages (I mean, the best one can “flip” when reading on a device) like a maniac trying to figure out what in the heck was going on and what Gray was hiding. In my opinion, Fairchild handled both the vagueness of the secrets and the revealing of all info in the book with precision.

Additionally, this romance doesn’t have some brooding, bad-for-you guy that is also perfect for the heroine. There are some sexy guys and like their chiseled and unrealistic counterparts they say and do the perfect things at the perfect times, but this book is never predictable; never trite or stiff.

For me, this book is just the right amount of romance mixed with just the right amount of Lia-ness and that balance equals perfection! Do yourself a favor and give this one a try. Do not let the label fool you; if Romance isn’t your typical read, this book is still for you because it breaks the mold in just the right places.

I was provided with an ARC of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I am not compensated for any of my reviews.

[Melany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gray is truly astonishing. We all have flaws and past experiences. She truly showed SO MUCh character development throughout the story. I truly enjoyed reading and seeing that happening. Daniel is a dreamboat, legit he's so perfect. Had some heart tugging moments, and some eye opening life lessons throughout the story. I really enjoyed this one!

[[Aengell] · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a beautiful, beautiful story!

Gray Sky is a compulsive liar. She has tons of other issues, but the lies are what make her go to therapy. Enter Dr. Daniel Harrison, therapist. They are attracted to each other, but other than the obvious obstacle of their professional relationship as Doctor and patient, there are many other conflicts and secrets.

Gray is a wonderful heroine. She is feisty, funny, weird, out of the ordinary, but at the same time her character has a depth in her vulnerability I wouldn't have expected. Her compulsive lying isn't even in the focus, because it's just one of her issues. Added to it is a thrown off, unbalanced family, two major losses and relationship-issues.





Daniel. I've fallen in love with Daniel. He's understanding and the calming balm for Gray, and at first I thought that it would stay that way. But as the story progresses it turns out that he's not the easy-going, self-assured Doctor he seems to be. He has secrets of his own, some of them left vague until the end, and he has an inner conflict the size of an elephant when it comes to his feelings for Gray.

The relationship between the two was a great mix of angst, taboo, and the right amount of sweet and endearing moments. I loved the fact that although there was chemistry between them, they knew each other and had serious feelings developed for each other before crossing the line.

But this novel isn't focused on the Romance, no. Gray's past and her relationship with her father broke my heart, and when it was about him and the past, the story turned very emotional. The side-story about Daniel's niece had the same effect, and since I cannot say anything else here, be assured that this novel is a bittersweet combination of angst, emotions and a fast-paced, refreshing narrating.

Lia Fairchild, please write the next installment as soon as possible!


ARC via NetGalley

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5🌟!

𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞, 𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐰 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧.

Gray is the kind of girl who likes the keep to herself; her past haunts her and nothing seems to help. That is, until she meets Dr Harrison, her soon-to-be therapist.

This is a forbidden romance book but the main focus on the plot is the mental growth that Gray goes through to try and overcome her battles. I loved how realistic this book was; Gray’s emotions were described perfectly and it really felt like I was part of every therapy session that she attended.

‘𝙐𝙡𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙮, 𝙞𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙨 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙗𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙘𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙩𝙚𝙙. 𝙄𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙘𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙭𝙞𝙣𝙨 𝙬𝙚𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙩 𝙙𝙤𝙬𝙣, 𝙠𝙚𝙚𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙩 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙨𝙤𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙩 𝙪𝙥 𝙩𝙤 𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨, 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙨, 𝙥𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚’

Dr Harrison (aka Clark Kent) is our good guy with a knack for helping people, but yet, he has some dark shadows of his own. I really liked Daniel - he showed his compassionate side, his protective side and his flaws. Just to convince you even more, there is the “who did this to you?” trope 😏

This isn’t a lovey-dovey romance book. Circumstances are complicated, emotions get in the way and it’s all kind of a mess. But, a good mess that I still enjoyed reading! Nothing’s sunshine and rainbows in life and I think that this book captured that wonderfully.

‘𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙞𝙢 𝙬𝙚 𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙣’𝙩 𝙗𝙖𝙙 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙝 𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧, 𝙤𝙧 𝙖𝙩 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙚. 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙖𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙞𝙢 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙫𝙞𝙫𝙚. 𝘽𝙪𝙩 𝙄 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙪𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙖 𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙡𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙙’

I’m looking forward to reading the second book in the duology to see where their relationship goes… if it even does go anywhere?!

*I received this book off of the lovely author in exchange for an honest review* - and honestly, I binge read it in one sitting because it was just that good…

[Colleen N · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lia Fairchild writes a beautiful story in Compulsive the first book in the Liar Series. Her writing style is so vivid and engrossing that as the reader you feel like you are in the story and a part of it.

It’s a story about a woman named Gray Donovan and her journey as she deals with a long list of personal demons. She has been dealt a rough hand of cards where she has endured years of hurt, betrayal, self-loathing and loss. Stuff that every human has encountered at one time or another in their life. You immediately feel for her and watch as she makes bad decisions that poorly effect herself and everyone around her.

Her downfall is as in the title she is compulsive, a compulsive liar who lies about even silly, non-important things. You soon see that she is just a lost woman that is trying to fill the voids in her life. With each word you feel the inner struggle she has going on and it makes you want to root for her, to empathize and sometimes even feel sorry for her. There are many contradicting layers to Gray Donovan, fragile, strong, serious, ad funny to name a few.

While seeking the help of a therapist, she meets Daniel in the waiting room and assumes she will never see him again. As fate would have it, due to circumstances around the people in their lives they encounter each other once again and the electricity between them is like the 4th of July. Gray quickly believes that Daniel is the complete opposite of her. He is a man who has it all together. He is surrounding by a loving family, he has a productive career, he is confident and handsome. As the reader we realize that Daniel isn’t so much different than Gray, he has his own personal demons and is just skating through them.

There soon becomes this push and pull relationship between the two of them. They are struggling between what their hearts want and what their head tells them is the right thing to do. In his head Daniel knows full well that he should be anywhere near Gray, but that’s doesn’t make it any easier on the magnetic pull he feels. He chooses the logical choice and to convince Gray and himself he tells her good bye. “One Day…You’re going to rise above your circumstances. You’re going to be a survivor instead of a victim. Your strengths will become assets instead of your downfall. Are you hearing me, Gray?”

While dealing with the blow and heartache, you soon see this beautiful woman begin to understand, find herself, and become who she is meant to be. You watch as she goes from being a “caterpillar” to a beautiful “butterfly”. She soon sees that threw the grey skies the sun can be found if you just look hard enough. Gray, “I started the day in search of peace and solitude. Or so I thought. Ultimately, it wasn’t the peace that comes from being alone that I coveted. It was the peace gained from clearing your soul of the toxins weighing it down, keeping it from soaring and opening it up to new emotions, experiences, people.”

Will that be enough? Will Gray find the peace she so desperately wants and needs? Will Daniel be able to live with the choice he made? Will fate bring them back together or will they be torn apart forever?

This book is for anyone that has ever had struggles within themselves, that has ever felt lost, hopeless, or a victim of their circumstances. It is for anyone who enjoys love and romance. For anyone that wants to have hope and believe that in time all things are possible. Bring on book 2 as quickly as possible Ms. Fairchild!

[Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

This copy kindly provided by NetGalley on behalf of the publisher.

overall a great read. A compelling storyline by a talented writer, even if some of it I saw coming a mile off. The dealing is what was interesting to see unfold, everyone facing up to their pasts and moving on from it, rather than continuing to let it rule their future.

If there was one thing I’d change, it’s the end when Gray says she’s going to prove she doesn’t need Daniel, Nathan, or any other man. To make her stand more poignant, she should have left it right there, instead she goes on to say she’ll come back for him & he better be ready when she does... girl, e better be ready when she does... girl, you shoulda left him there to sweat & come chase you! That’d really show him you can stand on your own two feet!!

[Autumn Miller ~ autumnbookreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 Stars
I really liked this book. I have been in a reading slump lately and I thought I should try something new for a change. This led me to pick up this book. I went into this not really knowing what to expect especially since I have never read a book where the main character was a compulsive liar. I thought that it would be an interesting experience and I was really curious how this book would play out.
Gray was a very... interesting and complex character. Like I said above, I have never read about a character that had her condition so reading from her point of view was a completely new experience for me. At first, it was disorienting because I was having trouble deciphering when Gray was telling the truth or when she was lying. I never knew what was going to come out of her mouth and it made getting to know her really difficult for the first few chapters.
I liked Daniel but I felt like I don't really know anything about him. I never really got any insight into what he was thinking and, because we only see him through Gray's eyes, it was really hard to get a read on him. I just wish there would have been a little more character development when it came to his character.
There was a major dark cloud hanging over this book. Obviously, something in Gray's life has led her to feel the need to lie so much. We get a few flashbacks throughout this book and each of them tore my heart out. I was constantly crying and I never got that happy feeling that I usually get while reading. This made it really hard to continue the book because I knew each chapter would progressively get worse and worse. It took away a lot of enjoyment that I could have had.
Overall, this was a good book; I just don't think I was in the right mindset to read this. I didn't know going in that it would be so heartbreaking to read and I wasn't prepared for the amount of tears I shed. I honestly don't think I will be reading the next book, but I can definitely see why other people would.

[Misty Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

** As posted on KindleObsessed blog**

My daughter (whom, for those of you that don’t know, is 6 and in the first grade) has been studying past Presidents for the last 3 weeks. A few days ago, ecstatic with her new found (shockingly vast) knowledge on the topic she decided to teach ME all that she had learned. I (admittedly/shamefully) was only half listening, UNTIL I heard the word “fool.” Having never heard the word from her before (and being a little concerned that I had missed the context for this word and why it was used) I asked her to repeat herself. After a fairly dramatic sigh (which I deserved therefore ignored) she started from the beginning.

Abraham Lincoln said:

“You can fool some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but you can not fool all of the people all of the time.”

My first reaction was relief. My daughter was NOT calling someone names. (*wipes brow*) My second? I’m totally using that in a review. (Waste not, want not. Right?) AND having just finished Lia Fairchild’s novel “Compulsive” (Liar Book #1 — you see what I did there?) I knew I wouldn’t have long too wait before I could break it out.

The truth is, I couldn’t have thought of a better way to sum up this novel if I had a week of silence and 40 cups of coffee. (Though, “the truth will set you free” made an internal appearance one or twice.) And though I rarely find my inspiration from dead Presidents (and by “rarely” I mean: never) I couldn’t deny the perfection of the statement in front of me. Lia’s protagonist Gray could fool some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but she couldn’t fool Daniel. Which made for a very interesting story.

"Lies hurt. Lies destroy.

But some lies protect…and heal. At least that’s what Gray Donovan had hoped for. She’s a compulsive liar using it as a defense mechanism to survive life and her shattered past.

When she starts seeing therapist Daniel Harrison, she can no longer deny the truths that have haunted her for so many years. She must now stand and face them.

Opening up to Daniel leaves her exposed and vulnerable. When her soul is bared to him, she can’t contain the attraction or the feelings he elicits.

Daniel feels drawn to his new patient, but knows he will have to fight it in order to resurrect Gray from her demons. His will and his judgment are tested when he must overcome his own doubts and face his own secrets."

There are a multitude of things I love about Lia Fairchild’s writing, but the most notable is her ability to create beautifully complex characters that don’t warp under the weight of heavy scenarios. Alcoholism, abandonment, compulsive lying, self-doubt, self-worth…these are all realistic trappings of human nature, but with a few words and a little compassion, Fairchild managed to manipulate these traps into stairs allowing her characters to grow instead sink.

You know what, let me go back and start from the beginning.

Gray (who is the sole narrator in this story) is a compulsive liar. She knows it, and everyone around her knows it. She has used her lying to deflect attachment since a very young age (ie: if you don’t know who I am, you can’t hurt me.) and she does so without a single second thought on the matter. It is what it is. Knowing this about her (before I even started the book) trumped up an image I didn’t like, and I went into this book thinking I was going to despise the mouth the story was coming from. However, after a few pages I realized that wasn’t the case. Gray was not a one dimensional character, therefore, she WAS NOT her lying. Her lying was a bi-product of her situation. (A very sad situation.) And despite her insistence that she would never change (and never attempt to) you could feel that THAT was a lie as well. It made her vulnerable, likable, and a person I championed for. A part of me wanted her love story to flourish into the things dreams are made of, but the other wanted Gray to find herself first. A little peace in a raging storm, if you will. It made for a slew of mixed emotions (for both myself AND the character) but also kept me completely engaged and excited for the next page.

Daniel (Gray’s shrink and eventual love interest) was much harder to pin down, but no less interesting. He was Gray’s kryptonite, but also her sun, the one person who could both build her up and knock her down. (For the record, all “knocking down” was unintentional…he’s a pretty decent guy.) Despite the lack of detail when it came to his background (which was a big fat nill) I still felt a level compassion for him that I wasn’t expecting. His struggle to maintain professionalism, while yearning to simply “take care” of Gray led to some intense dialogue, and some amazingly tender moments. (On both sides.) That said, I was impressed by Fairchild’s ability to maintain his masculinity under the weight of so much “understanding.” There were a few moments (for example: when he stood in FRONT of Gray during an encounter with a one night stand) where his Alpha-Male showed, and THOSE are the scenes that added weight to his simple character, made him less of a place marker and more human.

As for the rest of the cast (Nathan, the twins, Alyssa, Jessie…even her Dad) they were the perfect answer to stellar character building. They all offered (varying) insight into the inner workings of Gray, which helped complete plot circles and clear up any dangling questions.

Speaking of the plot, it was solid. There were a few moments when I felt a drag, but for the most part it sustained a steady pace throughout the entire novel. It was equal parts self-discovery and romance (which I really enjoyed) and ended just the way it should have; unconventional but healthy.

Note: For those of you that thrive on the push/pull of romantic literary entanglements (vs bed hoping) this is definitely a book you will enjoy.

My final thought: this was a really good book. Solid and heartfelt. Well done Mrs Fairchild.

Happy Reading my fellow Kindle-ites and remember: People are not broken, but sometimes they are a little scuffed up. Handle with care.

[Ashley · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This was my first Lia Fairchild book. Supposedly she's a bestselling author, but I couldn't find much evidence of that in this book. The writing left much to be desired. The story wasn't great and the characters weren't great. I've read worse writing than this, to be sure, but this was still pretty hard to get through at times.

I was willing to get past the forbidden romance aspect of the therapist dating one of his patients if it were to have been done well. Such was not the case here. Their relationship was completely inappropriate and unprofessional. It could have been better if it weren't for the insta-love that took place between Gray and Daniel. They were immediately in the throes of a powerful and passionate attraction that neither of them could contain for long. It was inexplicable. There was no sort of foundation for a relationship or connection between them.

Gray supposedly has had some psychiatric issues for most of her life. She has seen multiple shrinks and did not ever feel comfortable enough with any of them to completely open up and be honest with them. SURPRISE: she is INSTANTLY comfortable around Daniel. She instantly tells him things about herself that she's never told anybody else. She gets past her issues in record time and gets better. I'm sorry, but life does not work that way. At the same time as her making all of this so called progress, they begin an inappropriate relationship. I'm sorry, but no. He was out of line pursuing something with her. She was deluding herself into thinking she was resolving her issues and getting better simply because she believed herself to be in love.

The book glosses over these issues with which Gray has allegedly struggled for years. OH, I almost forgot. Gray met her best friend Nathan in AA. They both were recovering alcoholics and drug addicts. Neither of which attends meetings or participates in any sort of program. But it's okay, because they serve as co-sponsors to each other and they have rules about drinking (it's okay to drink in public, but they aren't allowed to keep alcohol in their homes, etc.). I mean, really. Also Nathan is in love with Gray, because obviously.



The only reason I gave this book two stars rather than one was because I enjoyed the Jessie storyline. I thought it added a layer of depth to the story that was missing otherwise.

Supposedly this is going to be a series, I obviously won't be continuing with it.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Review copy received from the author for an honest review*

4.5 “I lied” stars!

Well, damn!!! Here I am flipping the pages, or actually tapping the kindle to get to the end of this story and have some answers. But, what did I find….no damn answers!!!! UGH!! This is Gray’s story. Her life has not been easy, and because of this, she lies and she does many things that no one would be proud of.

“At one point in my life, I might not have recognized the truth if it bent me over and slapped me on the ass.”

As the synopsis states, Dr. Daniel Harrison wants to help her, but at the same time, wants her. “Dr. Loverboy” has some secrets himself, though. And those secrets or secret, however many there may be, drove me crazy and still are!!! Plus, another thing that is still irking me is, what was Gray’s occupation?!? If I missed it and someone figures it out, please let me know ;)

“The thrilling life and times of a single head case.”

So, we have two people with secrets, and one can’t help but lie all the time. Plus, there is a good friend of Gray’s who wants to be with her, and a few other characters who play a pretty good part in Gray and Daniel’s story. There is a LOT of back and forth between Gray and Daniel, so beware that this isn’t an easy romance. There’s no butterflies and hearts here.

“I wondered how many times some needy woman fantasized about him melting away her troubles…and then her panties.”

I must say, I have read one other book by this author and really enjoyed this one so much more. I think it was the mystery aspect of this one that drew me in. I finished it a few minutes ago and am still sitting here thinking WTF?!? I need some answers!! I feel so confused, still. She has done a great job at making me anxious for the next book. SECRETS….they make me crazy and happy in the reading world ;) And the romance, it’s not the scorching hot stuff I usually read, but yet I still found it enjoyable.

Book Bitch recommended!! Happy Reading 

[Lorie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 STARS

Ok, I’m not going to lie…… I struggled with the first few chapters. I wasn’t sure I was going to like this one, but OMG I LOVED IT! I nearly finished this in one day. Once I really connected with it, it was next to impossible to put down.

Gray is a liar. Lying makes it easier to hide from the truth. While lying may protect Gray, it also hurts her. Gray meets Daniel when her current therapist is unable to keep her on as a patient. Initially, Daniel doesn’t want to take Gray on as a patient, but he is the first therapist she actually feels comfortable with and she’s not about to let him say no. After some convincing, Daniel finally relents and takes Gray on as a patient. But as Gray and Daniel become more comfortable with one another, the doctor/patient boundaries start to be tested and feeling spill over outside the doctor/patient circle.

Compulsive not a just a typical forbidden relationship story. I was surprised to find out there’s more to it than Gray being the patient that makes this complicated with a capital C. Gray and Daniel’s story isn’t over yet. I wouldn’t say Compulsive ends on a cliffhanger, but there’s A LOT left to be told.

Gray and Daniel are just wonderful together. Even though Gray is damaged, she managed to become one of my most favorite heroines ever. And, Daniel is…. well, I just fell head over heels for him. He’s simple yet complicated.

Compulsive is a refreshing take on the “forbidden” relationship. It’s a bittersweet tale that runs big on emotion and heart. I cannot wait to see what’s next for Gray and Daniel.

(ARC provide by the Publisher via Netgalley for an honest review)

[Heather Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really, really good book. I was drawn in by the concept, but stayed for the writing. The author took me on an incredible emotional journey with Gray and Daniel and Compulsive will definitely stay with me for a long time.

Gray is unlike most romance heroines. She’s a compulsive liar and has been forced to undergo therapy because of her issues. Despite her constant lying, she’s funny and vivacious and easy for readers to connect with. She knows that she’s her own worst enemy and I could tell early on she wanted help.

Daniel and Gray have a very intense relationship from the get go. I liked the restraint he showed and how he struggled to remain professional in order to help Gray. They develop a mutual trust and I enjoyed seeing how Gray started to realize that there was hope for her after all. Her admissions about her childhood were truly heart wrenching. And I was shocked to find out that Daniel also had stuff to deal with from his past.

The ending was a bit cliffy, but I’m excited to read more about Gray and Daniel. I feel like the first book just touched on the start of their journey.

Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the novel for review!

[Michelle (Bookaholic Banter) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advanced reading copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion and review

I highly enjoyed reading this story! It was a wonderful story full of love, loss, and growing. I adored the imperfection of the characters in this book. It made them more real. Perfect people just don't exist! Every character in this book serves a purpose, they aren't just there to merely fill the pages.

Gray is a young woman who has many flaws. She lies and needs to see a therapist to keep her lies under control, she drinks to forget the tragedy that happened to her when she was a child. Gray is not perfect but she has a good heart. There is a 14 year-old girl named Alyssa who lives in her apartment building who she bonds with and takes in under her wing, becomes sort of a mother to her.

Nathan is Gray's friend whom she met in AA. He keeps her centered, he is her rock.

Daniel is Gray's therapist whom she is highly attracted to.

The story weaves nicely and the plot thickens! The characters all have their issues to deal with. Will everything all work out in the end...or will everything go terribly wrong?

Guess you will just have to read to see what happens.

[Shadow · Rating 1 out of 5]

Well I feel entirely indifferent about this story. Gray is a compulsive liar. She struggles with the demons of her past that affect her present in every way. Not even therapy has worked for her. But things change when she meets Dr. Daniel Harrison. She feels this immediate connection with him, and asks him to be her new therapist. Through him she learns to open up about her past, face those demons that plague her heart, and slowly change to become a better person.

What to say? Good premise. I had never read a book with a relationship between a patient and her therapist. But the premise fell short to what the book delivered. I wasn't exactly bored, but it felt dull. I felt no connection with Gray or Daniel. Not even with Alyssa or Nathan. They were obviously characters who had a lot to deal with. The story did have a closure to the current situation albeit it was left as a cliffhanger to continue God knows when. But everything felt rushed, incomplete, and just plain dull. I finished it in one sitting and had a poker face all throughout the story. It wasn't a terrible book, but there are definitely better things to use your time with. So no, I wouldn't recommend this at all and I'll probably not read the second book.

[Eye Candy Bookstore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Compulsive was my first read by Lia Fairchild and I can honestly say I was hooked from page one. I found the storyline interesting and unique and the characters complicated and flawed, but at the same time very likable.

Gray has had a tough go of things and the coping mechanism she uses to deal with this trauma is compulsive lying. Gray lies about everything, even when it isn’t necessary. She lives a destructive lifestyle and is constantly trying to keep her past a bay. When her boss and friend have just about had enough, she gives her a choice, lose your job or get therapy to deal with your issues.

Enter Dr. Daniel! When these two are in a room together the electricity is undeniable. Gray finds herself for the first time opening up and actually telling the truth. The sexual tension between these two is off the charts but both of these characters have their own issues not to mention the fact that he is her therapist!

This is definitely not your typical romance so don’t go in thinking it’s going to follow that typical story arch. This book was emotional, sexy and very well written. I absolutely cannot wait to read the next book in this series and I highly recommend this one! Lia has a new fan!

Dana @ Eye Candy Bookstore

[Megan’s Endless Reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

Compulsive...

The thing about this book is that is it no light-hearted romance. No, Compulsive focuses on the nitty gritty reality that twists you up and then spits you out by the end of the book. While reading this book I kept on thinking that I knew what was going to happen next only to be completely surprised within the next few pages. Sometimes frustrating, yes, but also amazing to not know what the character's next actions will be. I love books where I am continually surprised by the next moment within the story. It makes them more interesting and it holds my attention better than the average book.

There were a few things that struck me as odd in this book that I would hope are resolved in the second book. First off, Becca's husband is a really menacing figure in the book, yet he doesn't seem to ever come up again after a certain point. (by the way, Becca is Gray's aunt). I felt like his character wasn't fully utilized within Compulsive. It was almost a cliffhanger after all this tension and fear was built up about him. Also, Nathan's foster brother threw me off a little. He's another character that seemed pretty dangerous, but again nothing ever happened. I really hope these cliffhangers are resolved in the second book of the Lair Series.

Gray was a tough character to read about. Being a compulsive liar really messed up her life in a lot of ways because the people she loved didn't always trust her. She knew it was wrong of her, but it didn't change the fact that it was a defense mechanism that she always defaulted to. One thing I was a little unsure about was her "visions". She was seeing things and I don't really think this became important enough. I mean she's seeing a shrink and tells him that she sometimes sees things that aren't real and nothing is done about it? It felt a little off to me. Otherwise, I really loved Gray. She did so much to protect the people she loved that it was pretty easy to ignore some of the inconsistencies of her character.

Daniel. I really ended up liking Daniel. At first, I could see exactly how his and Gray's relationship would evolve, but I was pleasantly surprised that it wasn't something rushed into by Daniel. He really did try to stick to the code of a patient-doctor relationship. It was interesting to see some of his personality really come out when he spent time with Gray. I loved how she would frustrate him on purpose to get a reaction out of him. Their relationship might have been "forbidden", so to speak, but they really did make a good couple.

Overall, this book was really good. The characters were great and I loved how the author slowly revealed Gray's past throughout the book. It really built up the suspense and made the story that much more enjoyable. I can't wait to read the second book to the series to see if some of the inconsistencies get explained.

[Jae (Bookish Bluebird) · Rating 4 out of 5]

*4 stars!*
I haven't read many "forbidden love"-esque novels but the moment I read the blurb for Compulsive, I was intrigued! This was the first time that I've come across a romance between a therapist and their patient, so a big check mark for being unique. The story was touching and I really liked how the relationship between the heroine and hero developed. It didn’t feel forced or rushed even if it played out in a span of a few days. And although the blurb hints at Daniel's secrets, they weren't really touched on. This book was very much focused on Gray and her growth.

"To know me was to doubt me."

Gray Donovan is a compulsive liar and has been seeing Dr. Wallace as a means to keep her job. When Dr. Wallace has to relocate, Gray is faced with having to pick a new therapist. She didn’t take her sessions seriously to begin with, so the prospect of choosing a new shrink didn’t appeal to her at all. Until she met Dr. Daniel Harrison, that is. Gray’s character growth was by far my favorite part of the book. Right from the start, I liked Gray. She was quite spirited and amusing. There were some flashback chapters interspersed throughout the novel that really helped in understanding her. I loved her interactions with Alyssa and how they really highlighted how caring and maternal she could be.

"Some people want things even if they’re not good for them."

Gray was adamant in having Daniel as her therapist even when he wasn't taking in any new patients. I liked that his greatest appeal to Gray was how he could make her feel calm and relaxed. Comfortable enough to want to seek his professional help. I was enamored with Daniel. He was accommodating and compassionate. Gray is a tough cookie but as the story progresses you really see her vulnerability surface. I loved that Daniel helped her come to terms with her past and move forward. Circumstances arise that has them seeing each other outside the office as well. Had they only known each other and met within a professional setting, I probably wouldn't have found their relationship growth very realistic.

"We're all human. We all love and hurt and rise and fall."

Overall, Compulsive was beautifully written and packed with great characters (both main and secondary)! I mistakenly thought this was a standalone though so now I'm suffering the wait. With how this one ended, I believe the next book will delve more into Daniel's past *grabby hands* I need it.

**ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review

[Claire - The Coffeeholic Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gray had been seeing a shrink after her employer accused her of stealing an account. With Dr. Wallace, she thought she found an ally who could help her with her issues. Turned out, the shrink didn't even like her at all.

Then she met Superman. Clark Kent with an MD. The answer to her prayers. Dr. Daniel Harrison.

She couldn't admit at first that she was a liar. A compulsive liar. That she's got a lot of emotional issues. About drugs. Alcohol. Boys. One-night stands. Lies. And more lies. The lies she had to tell as her coping mechanism to what really bothered her inside. But the more she spent time with Daniel, the more inclined she was to tell the truth. The more she discovered she could be truthful of her present. The more she became accepting of her past.

Personal issues aside, Gray's got her hands full with her family, too. She was not on speaking terms with her father, she was entangled in her aunt Becca's chaotic divorce and she's got 15-year old Alyssa who couldn't stop talking like a sailor. There's also Nathan, the one who knew the innermost part of her. The man who had been part of her past but couldn't possibly be in her grainy future. She loved Nathan, but she knew they could never be together.

And to top it off, there's Noah, the very reason she couldn't get past her issues.

Would there still be a future for her? Can anyone still trust her? Will she be able to redeem herself in the end?

This.Is.Amazingly.Beautiful.

I can't believe I'll say this, but I love the story even if the main female character was a liar. Not just any kind of liar, but the Queen of Lies, nonetheless. To tell you the truth, I have never read a most truthful account of a character until I met Gray Sky Donovan. Yep, that's her full name, Gray Sky, and she was one-of-a-kind.

I am not saying that I liked Gray's personality. I am against liars, I hate liars, I never like being lied to. But I had to give Gray the benefit of the doubt. And I'm glad I did. This is one of the books wherein I had a totally different view about the main leads at the beginning, where I didn't positively think of what it was going to be about and I'm relieved to say that it made me think very differently by the time I was finished.

The concept about drugs, alcohol, abuse, love - all were discussed with honesty and intensity. Compulsive is a book that talked about reality. This may be fiction but it can happen in real life. Props to Lia Fairchild for a job well done. Can't wait to read the next book!

[buzy_reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Compulsive was about the characters Gray struggling in life to put the past behind her in order to move forward. Gray spiraled into drugs, alcohol, and sex as coping mechanisms to hide and numb her pain. Gray went through the motions in her therapy sessions having not yet accepted that she needed help. Not until her therapist moved leaving her a referral list of other therapists did Gray find what she needed. Gray stumbled upon Dr. Harrison's office hoping he could become her new therapist.

Compulsive was about an array of characters that brought purpose and meaning into each other's lives. Compulsive was written in the first person. The story transitioned well considering the varying degree of characters Gray interacted with. The layout of the story being primarily therapy sessions made for revealing dialogue. I felt like a spectator listening in on private conversations that took place in the therapists room. Many battles were to be won in this story that not only involved Gray but an array of other characters that impacted Gray's life. Exquisitely written I could not help but be absorbed by the beautiful truths and lies being delivered.

Behind all the lies the truth was hidden in plain sight. With so many lies told Gray had a hard time communicating a truth when the lies slipped out so easily. Dr. Harrison was her truth serum causing the lies to fall away and the truths to come forth.
“Sometimes people want things even if they’re not good for them. Sometimes people aren’t capable of making those decisions themselves." Great quote from Dr. Harrison.

Jessica's character added the much needed spirit of a young survivor reminding Alyssa and Gray the importance of a successful and happy youth.
“The root of the problem is still there, lying just beneath the surface”. This quote said it best. I knew Gray was dealing with a heavy burden of guilt. It was easy to pick up the clues. Needless to say it was still shocking and sad when the truth was revealed.

There was a push and pull relationship between Daniel and Gray. Dr. Harrison was torn between maintaining his Doctor/patient professionalism while struggling as a man. Daniel wanted to be a friend for Gray while Dr. Harrison wanted to be a doctor who could help her. Gray pushed the boundaries to unite the two.

The story offered many scenarios to run through my mind. At times I thought I had the characters figured out only to discover I was way off my mark.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

" God, had i totally blown this chance by getting too comfortable with Daniel? Maybe I should have selected a different doctor, a stranger who wouldn't look at me with understanding, pity and dreamy midnight blue eyes. But, a different doctor, I was sure, would only cause me to close up further. if I was ever going to take a leap of faith, it was now or never. What I want is to be happy. What I want is to feel somewhat normal........"


Gray Sky Donovan. Damaged by childhood trauma and too confused to unravel the mess its made of her life. Her friend Nathan from AA is trying to be her friend. Maybe there is more. Maybe Gray can't handle a real relationship.

Forced into therapy that she fights she finds herself in front of Dr. Daniel Harrison. Attracted to the handsome doctor, but he's trying to remain professional. Not if Gray has her way. Dr. Daniel has his own issues and by chance his family is brought into Gray's life. Gray mothers a young neighbor girl, Alyssa. Alyssa befriends Daniel's sick niece.

Forced together outside of the doctor's office and then willingly in his office can they fight what they feel? There are morals and ethics at work here as well. Who will cross the line? Who will change where the line falls? Can tragedy bring them together or will it force them further apart? Where does Nathan fall into this situation?

Gray does want help deep down. Maybe Daniel can be her friend and help her unravel the tragedies of the past. A bittersweet story. I read this one from beginning to end with hardly a stopping point. I loved the characters. I look forward to more of this series. There are secrets and they're not all Gray's. You won't be able to get to the next book in this series fast enough. Trust me.

"I'm talking about bold-faced lies that spill from my lips as easy as the breath from my lungs. Lies that ruin people, lies that protect people, lies for the hell of it. I eat, sleep, and drink lies. I bathe in deceit. At one point in my life, I might not have recognized the truth if it bent me over and slapped me on the ass....."


Thank you to Lia Fairchild for the opportunity to read an A.R.C.

[Alexia Purdy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first novel I've read by Lia Fairchild. To be frank, I didn't know what to expect after reading the blurb for this book, but I have to admit, it's an addictive story about not only inner struggles with addictions, obsessions and faults, but of the strength of real love and how it affects the people we surround ourselves with every day.

This follows the story of Gray Sky Donavan. She's one broken lady and basically stuck in a cycle of sex addiction, lying and letting her tragic past push her down. She knows she needs help, but she's unwilling to fix what's wrong until she runs into a mysterious therapist, Dr. Daniel Harrison, who makes her heart jump and her soul feel the spark of life again. Could she really get better with his help? She really wants to find out.

The relationships in Gray's life which include not only her family: twin aunts and her father, but also a young teenager she takes under her wing and a long time friend/lover named Nathan. Even with their endless support and the wedges driven between them all, Gray struggles mainly with her relationship with men. Possibly stemming from past betrayals that haunt her still, she has to learn to break through these barriers that she placed within herself to keep others out. She never wanted to break them down half as much as she does now, with Daniel. He's got his own issues and worries, but he wants to help her too, even if it means keeping is own secrets from Gray.

It all leaves me needing book 2 like yesterday. This story not only resonates with anyone who has experienced tragedy, but pulls in readers in a way that leaves them needing to see more of each character's life. I wanted to keep reading to see what else happens between the three main characters, hoping something huge was going to go down. I guess I have to wait until the next one for sure. It's going to be rough waiting to find out more!

[Regina Foo · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review is originally posted on: http://wp.me/p5m5jd-fu

Disclaimer: I received this copy of ARC from NetGalley in exchange of my honest review.

Lia Fairchild is a great storyteller, I'm able to fall into the world of the characters easily through her writing. Compulsive is the first book of Liar series which the genre is not what I usually read. But by reading this book makes me a fan of Lia.

Even though this book is also labeled as romance, most of the time this book concentrates on the main character's character development. Gray Donovan, who is also narrator of the story, fights through her inner demons that caused her become a compulsive liar with the help of Daniel Harrison.

Gray's pasts are full of sorrow and sadness. A major incident happened that she is often reacted with anger whenever it is mentioned. She never open up her heart to talk about it to others until she meets Daniel. I like the way Lia transitions back to Gray's past to uncover her secret bit by bit. I have a weird taste in reading that I don't usually like reading flashbacks a lot in books (e.g. If I Stay and The 100). But the flashbacks presented in this book is very smooth that I couldn't help myself but to read more and more chapters.

The romance relationship between Gray and Daniel is like a tug of war. They know they wanted each other so much but deep down inside, there's something stopping them. Even though this part is a bit draggy for me but by knowing that this is only first book in the series, it's understandable that it takes time to bring out the real reasons behind the struggle.

I'm a bit excited to read about Daniel's perspective in the last chapter (the Epilogue) of the book. The chapter shows some hint on Daniel's doubts when dealing with Gray. I'm hoping that I could read more in Daniel's perspective so that I can understand more on this character.

[Debi Barnes- Mean Girls Luv Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

The synopsis on this one was so intriguing that I needed to read this book. A compulsive liar? I have not seen that done before and I love a good forbidden romance so I was excited.
The story was definitely one that had me flipping the pages to see what was going to happen next. I was sucked into the characters world. Gray Donovan is a compulsive liar. She lies to everyone except a few close friends. Well she does but they have figured out her game and knows when she is lying. Her boss has forced her to see a therapist. After the first one leaves the practice she is forced to find another one.
In walks Daniel Harrison. He is attractive and alluring to Gray. She thinks she can remain hide her walls and spin lies. But under Daniel’s care she feels like maybe the truth could set her free.
The connection between these characters are fantastic. From their first interaction you could feel it. The secondary characters in the story really bring out the best in the main characters. The two teenagers add a great level of depth to Gray and Daniel.
I think the thing I like best about this book was the ending. Yes we are left with a little bitty cliffhanger but Gray realizes that she needs to work on herself and needs to learn to not depend on Daniel or her best friend. It is truly a great message to a lot of people.
If I had one negative was I wished Ms Fairchild played up the compulsive liar elements. As the story progressed it wasn’t as front in center as I would have liked it. I was interested in reading juicy lies that she had told people.

[Krista · Rating 5 out of 5]

AMAZING!!!
***********

OMG

Wow

I'm not even sure where to start with this story, I just know I NEED and WANT everyone to read this story.

It's been a while since I have become engrossed in a book that is slightly different and more stand out. This book is that and so much more. It's all encompassing of life and learning to be/to live/to forgive/to let go of everything. My eyes welled up for hope, for loss, for sense of rejection...

Gray Donovan is broken from a past that left her devastated. She has used many vices as a way to cope or numb the pain; lying being one of them. She was finally forced to see a therapist, one that she has no regard for. Her therapist was leaving and gave Gray a list of suitable replacements. There was one name that was not on the list - Daniel Harrison; her now former therapists co-worker.

At first Daniel is hesitant to take on Gray as a patient; citing that he is not currently taking on new patients. But eventually they come to an agreement. Daniel gets Gray to open up and start to heal from her past. But there is also an undercurrent of attraction. Are these merely side effects of patient/doctor (healer) relations? Or are these feelings founded?

I can't tell you the whole story or what happens to Gray and Daniel. Just know that the ending will leave you wanting more. Go one click this now!

[Paige Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gray Donovan is a compulsive liar. For her, the lies roll off her tongue very easily and provide her a means of escape from a horrific accident that occurred when she was younger. She can smooth talk her way through anything and always count on her friend Nathan to be there to rescue her when needed. When asked to seek professional help stemming from a work-related incident, she receives much more than she bargained for. After a therapist change, Gray meets the sexy Dr. Daniel Harrison.

Right away, Gray senses something different about Daniel, and she actually strives to be a better person without the lying that has become second nature to her. With his help, Gray realizes she must face her past in order to move forward. However, at the same time, Daniel's doubts begin to surface, and he pushes her away, denying the connection between them.

This is the first novel I have had the honor of reading by Ms. Fairchild, and she has definitely become an author I will be stalking for future works. Compulsive contains an original story line with a cast of well-developed primary characters and supportive secondary characters. It is the perfect blend of everything that encompasses a great novel.

A definite recommendation from me!

[Arys · Rating 4 out of 5]

(Thanks to Lia Fairchild and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an ARC for an honest review)

Compulsive by Lia Fairchild is an original novel that takes you on an emotional journey with it's main character Gray Donovan who is a compulsive liar. She is asked to see a therapist after a work-incident and it is through this where she meets Daniel Harrison.

It took me a while before I really got into this novel, but after Gray and Daniel meet and she begins to grow and gain confidence over her compulsion and other coping mechanisms the novel became more for me. I also enjoyed the romance amongst the Gray and Daniel, even the scenes with Nathan who is a such a loyal friend to Gray. Lastly, I liked how Gray knows when she needs to step away and go out and face the world on her own. This opens the next book to many possibilities and I can't wait to read it.

Compulsive by Lia Fairchild is a great book and I'd recommend for others to read.