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The Whispers of A Lie: BETA READ
Welcome to the first book of The Whispers of a Lie series.
The first two books of the series were originally known as Part 1: Beneath the Ashes and Part 2: Shadows of the Forsaken. After completing the BETA reads, I decided to take the story in a new direction. The initial duology now forms the foundation of The First Lie, which will consist of two books, beginning with Ashes of Innocence.
About the Story
Ashes of Innocence begins with a whisper.
Catherine Sinclair believes she knows who she is: the dutiful fiancée, the reliable assistant, the woman who never steps out of line. But when she meets Fabian Laurent, a man who carries his past like a crown and his sins like a secret, her world begins to unravel.
What starts as curiosity becomes an obsession. What feels like love turns into a dangerous game of power, deceit, and survival. Beneath the surface of every desire lies a lie, and Catherine is about to learn that the first lie she ever told was the one she told herself.
This is not a story about heroes or villains. It is a story about the people who become both in the name of love.
The first two books of the series were originally known as Part 1: Beneath the Ashes and Part 2: Shadows of the Forsaken. After completing the BETA reads, I decided to take the story in a new direction. The initial duology now forms the foundation of The First Lie, which will consist of two books, beginning with Ashes of Innocence.
About the Story
Ashes of Innocence begins with a whisper.
Catherine Sinclair believes she knows who she is: the dutiful fiancée, the reliable assistant, the woman who never steps out of line. But when she meets Fabian Laurent, a man who carries his past like a crown and his sins like a secret, her world begins to unravel.
What starts as curiosity becomes an obsession. What feels like love turns into a dangerous game of power, deceit, and survival. Beneath the surface of every desire lies a lie, and Catherine is about to learn that the first lie she ever told was the one she told herself.
This is not a story about heroes or villains. It is a story about the people who become both in the name of love.
410 pages, Hardcover
Published April 4, 2025
70 people are currently reading
310 people want to read
About the author
Dorian De LaRue
11 books85 followersDorian De LaRue is a storyteller who writes to make your mind work, to make you question what you read, and to look not only at what stands in front of you but at what hides behind each word. The weight they carry, the meaning they hold.
Dorian writes from a place where memory and imagination intertwine, where stories are less invention and more reflection. There is no clear line between truth and fiction in their work, and perhaps that is the point. Some stories are not meant to be neatly understood. They are meant to be felt.
The emotions that run through their novels, the betrayals, the obsessions, the wounds left quietly unspoken, come from somewhere real, even if the details are dressed in shadow.
Some believe Dorian writes to outrun the past. Others believe they write to finally understand it.
Whichever it is, the truth remains simple. Every word is an offering. A bridge between what was lost, what was endured, and what still refuses to be forgotten.
“We are all haunted by something. Writing is simply how I choose to stay still long enough to face it.”
— Dorian De LaRue
Perhaps Dorian De LaRue is just a storyteller chasing answers like the rest of us, weaving hope, heartbreak, and truth into every page, and trusting that somewhere, somehow, the right reader will understand.
E: whispersofalie@gmail.com
IG: thewhispersofalie
Dorian writes from a place where memory and imagination intertwine, where stories are less invention and more reflection. There is no clear line between truth and fiction in their work, and perhaps that is the point. Some stories are not meant to be neatly understood. They are meant to be felt.
The emotions that run through their novels, the betrayals, the obsessions, the wounds left quietly unspoken, come from somewhere real, even if the details are dressed in shadow.
Some believe Dorian writes to outrun the past. Others believe they write to finally understand it.
Whichever it is, the truth remains simple. Every word is an offering. A bridge between what was lost, what was endured, and what still refuses to be forgotten.
“We are all haunted by something. Writing is simply how I choose to stay still long enough to face it.”
— Dorian De LaRue
Perhaps Dorian De LaRue is just a storyteller chasing answers like the rest of us, weaving hope, heartbreak, and truth into every page, and trusting that somewhere, somehow, the right reader will understand.
E: whispersofalie@gmail.com
IG: thewhispersofalie
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 267 reviews
June 16, 2025
Beautifully chaotic!
This was honestly the best little diamond of a read!
There’s a lot to unpack— but it all packs a hell of a punch, and I could not put it down.
I lived for the raw and twisted journey this one slapped on me.
This one was intense, but in the very best way and will have your thoughts in overdrive as you await the next book.
I was enthralled, and absolutely devoured every morsel!
If you like a well spun web of dark, obsessive, twisted suspense— well, this is for you!
This was honestly the best little diamond of a read!
There’s a lot to unpack— but it all packs a hell of a punch, and I could not put it down.
I lived for the raw and twisted journey this one slapped on me.
This one was intense, but in the very best way and will have your thoughts in overdrive as you await the next book.
I was enthralled, and absolutely devoured every morsel!
If you like a well spun web of dark, obsessive, twisted suspense— well, this is for you!
April 20, 2025
**Whispers, Twists and Turns**
*Beneath the Ashes* is Part 1 of *The Whispers of a Lie*. You'll be hooked from the very first page. This book is a masterful psychological suspense thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the end.
Each character is complex and beautifully developed, with many layers to their personalities. As we get to know them better and dive deeper into the story, we uncover their obsessions and the power dynamics between them. The plot unfolds in unexpected ways, making us believe we understand what's happening, only for the story to reveal new twists that were foreshadowed earlier but not fully grasped until now.
The skillful character building, combined with dark, forbidden obsessions and power plays, provides a thrilling and suspenseful experience that will keep you turning the pages in one sitting. This book is a must-read for psychological thriller fans! It’s one you'll want to revisit because, with such well-crafted characters, you’ll likely miss something on the first read.
I definitely give this a 6 out of 6 stars for thriller, suspense, and mystery. While it's only 3 stars on the spice scale, that's not the focus of this book. Happy reading!
*Beneath the Ashes* is Part 1 of *The Whispers of a Lie*. You'll be hooked from the very first page. This book is a masterful psychological suspense thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the end.
Each character is complex and beautifully developed, with many layers to their personalities. As we get to know them better and dive deeper into the story, we uncover their obsessions and the power dynamics between them. The plot unfolds in unexpected ways, making us believe we understand what's happening, only for the story to reveal new twists that were foreshadowed earlier but not fully grasped until now.
The skillful character building, combined with dark, forbidden obsessions and power plays, provides a thrilling and suspenseful experience that will keep you turning the pages in one sitting. This book is a must-read for psychological thriller fans! It’s one you'll want to revisit because, with such well-crafted characters, you’ll likely miss something on the first read.
I definitely give this a 6 out of 6 stars for thriller, suspense, and mystery. While it's only 3 stars on the spice scale, that's not the focus of this book. Happy reading!
April 2, 2025
The novel centers on Catherine sinclair who begans to unravel Fabian laurent. The story is all about forbidden love, suspense, thriller, dark romance which really appealed me...
Excitedly waiting for the next part
Excitedly waiting for the next part
May 27, 2025
This was my very first ARC! Part 1 had me HOOKED, so I knew part 2 would make me feel the same way. It was such an emotional ride, and wrecked me in ways I didn’t know was possible for a book.
These books were so beautifully written, plot twists, emotional, and everything in between. Mystery, lies, physiological thriller, secrets, dark romance and past. If you’re a dark romance and thriller kind of girly like me, pick this book up, you will not be disappointed 🖤
These books were so beautifully written, plot twists, emotional, and everything in between. Mystery, lies, physiological thriller, secrets, dark romance and past. If you’re a dark romance and thriller kind of girly like me, pick this book up, you will not be disappointed 🖤
March 24, 2025
If you like to be kept on your toes/edge of the chair this is for you!If you like some romance with a bit of thriller this is for you! Getting all the POVs…who doesn’t want that?????
I couldn’t put it down, the romance the thriller the unexpected and twists in the story were amazing!!
Such a great story !
I couldn’t put it down, the romance the thriller the unexpected and twists in the story were amazing!!
Such a great story !
March 24, 2025
A Dark Romance That Sets Your Heart on Fire!
From the very first page, Beneath The Ashes sweeps you into a world where passion and danger entwine like shadows and flame. This is not your typical love story—it’s a collision of longing, desire, and the haunting pain of wanting something you shouldn’t.
Catherine and Fabian’s connection is magnetic and undeniably intense. Their chemistry isn’t just romantic; it’s an obsession that dances on the edge of destruction. The author masterfully crafts their dynamic, making every glance and unspoken word feel electric. Their relationship is both addictive and forbidden, the kind of slow-burn tension that leaves you breathless.
But what truly sets this book apart is how it portrays love as something dark and beautiful. It’s not the comfort of a fairytale; it’s the agony and ecstasy of something real, raw, and all-consuming. Beneath The Ashes delves into the complexities of attraction and vulnerability, where love isn’t always gentle—but it’s always powerful.
If you’re drawn to dark romances that are equal parts seductive and soul-shattering, this book will leave you aching for more. It’s an exquisite portrayal of love’s dangerous allure—compelling, passionate, and impossible to forget.
From the very first page, Beneath The Ashes sweeps you into a world where passion and danger entwine like shadows and flame. This is not your typical love story—it’s a collision of longing, desire, and the haunting pain of wanting something you shouldn’t.
Catherine and Fabian’s connection is magnetic and undeniably intense. Their chemistry isn’t just romantic; it’s an obsession that dances on the edge of destruction. The author masterfully crafts their dynamic, making every glance and unspoken word feel electric. Their relationship is both addictive and forbidden, the kind of slow-burn tension that leaves you breathless.
But what truly sets this book apart is how it portrays love as something dark and beautiful. It’s not the comfort of a fairytale; it’s the agony and ecstasy of something real, raw, and all-consuming. Beneath The Ashes delves into the complexities of attraction and vulnerability, where love isn’t always gentle—but it’s always powerful.
If you’re drawn to dark romances that are equal parts seductive and soul-shattering, this book will leave you aching for more. It’s an exquisite portrayal of love’s dangerous allure—compelling, passionate, and impossible to forget.
April 21, 2025
If you grew up as a wattpad girlie then this book is for you.... the writing style has a nostalgia to it.
The story is about a woman Catherine Sinclair, trapped in a toxic relationship and craving for something better and bolder.
Catherine starts off as the shy, timid, unseen as a striking woman... Until she decides to show the world who and what she's really made of by dressing like the empowered and beautiful woman in her orbit.
Catherine starts to indulge in the thought of being with a man far superior to her fiancé Damien Mercer, her boss Fabian Laurent.
Their connection ignites a slow-burning obsession, drawing Catherine into a world of whispered secrets and forbidden temptations as he is married, using the distance between him and Sienna as a possible permission to accept the temptations that he's desperately fighting.
The story is filled with lies, secrets, deceit and temptations.
I do feel like there are a few lose ends but hopefully they'll be tied up in a following book.
The story is about a woman Catherine Sinclair, trapped in a toxic relationship and craving for something better and bolder.
Catherine starts off as the shy, timid, unseen as a striking woman... Until she decides to show the world who and what she's really made of by dressing like the empowered and beautiful woman in her orbit.
Catherine starts to indulge in the thought of being with a man far superior to her fiancé Damien Mercer, her boss Fabian Laurent.
Their connection ignites a slow-burning obsession, drawing Catherine into a world of whispered secrets and forbidden temptations as he is married, using the distance between him and Sienna as a possible permission to accept the temptations that he's desperately fighting.
The story is filled with lies, secrets, deceit and temptations.
I do feel like there are a few lose ends but hopefully they'll be tied up in a following book.
April 20, 2025
“Desire does not announce itself. It creeps -slow, insidious. It coils around the ribs, presses against the throat, leaving just enough breath to feel the ache of it.”
- Hooked….IMMEDIATELY.
Whispers of a Lie: Beneath the Ashes has you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. With every turn of the page you crave more.
The story follows Catherine Sinclair who is engaged to a man who only wants power and control. She yearns to be seen, to be loved or so she thought. Then she meets Fabian Laurent who is everything her fiancé is not.
I typically don’t enjoy books written in 3rd person as much, however I was captivated and could not put it down. Can’t wait to see where the next book goes.
A thrill ride of twists and turns fueled by forbidden love. Those who love stories of obsession, Beneath the Ashes is for you.
- Hooked….IMMEDIATELY.
Whispers of a Lie: Beneath the Ashes has you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. With every turn of the page you crave more.
The story follows Catherine Sinclair who is engaged to a man who only wants power and control. She yearns to be seen, to be loved or so she thought. Then she meets Fabian Laurent who is everything her fiancé is not.
I typically don’t enjoy books written in 3rd person as much, however I was captivated and could not put it down. Can’t wait to see where the next book goes.
A thrill ride of twists and turns fueled by forbidden love. Those who love stories of obsession, Beneath the Ashes is for you.
April 7, 2025
The Whispers of a Lie – Part 1 is the kind of book that lingers in your mind long after the final page. Dorian weaves a rich, emotionally charged narrative full of tension, secrets, and slow-burn chemistry that makes your heart race. The characters are beautifully flawed, the plot is deliciously twisted, and every chapter peels back a new layer of darkness. If you love enemies-to-lovers stories with real stakes, psychological depth, and a dose of heartbreak—you’re in for a ride. I devoured this in one sitting and immediately needed more. Bravo to a debut that doesn’t read like a debut at all.
Highly recommend for fans of Colleen Hoover, Penelope Douglas, and anyone craving a dark romance that actually delivers.
Highly recommend for fans of Colleen Hoover, Penelope Douglas, and anyone craving a dark romance that actually delivers.
March 21, 2025
Beneath The Ashes is an absolute thrill ride from start to finish! I was lucky to get an advance copy and this novel keeps you on your toes, biting your nails, and craving more with every page. The twists and turns are masterfully woven, leaving you breathless with suspense. And then—just when you think you have it all figured out—you’re hit with the dazzle of romance that feels both intoxicating and utterly forbidden. It’s dark, it’s seductive, and it’s impossible to put down. If you love stories that blend obsession, temptation, and irresistible passion, then this book is your next addiction. Highly recommend!
May 2, 2025
This book crawled under my skin, but in the best ways. The obsessions, the secret desires, and the psychological thrills will keep you wanting more. The slow and burning wants and needs of the characters will captivate you and have you unraveling along with them. I can't wait to read the next book!!
May 9, 2025
What a wild ride! This story is written from multiple perspectives, following Fabian and Catherine, along with their inner circles, very closely. Catherine seems like a woman just trying to recreate herself, but she is so much more than that. Secrets and deception, manipulation and obsession. Every bit of this story is written to keep you on the edge of your seat. The impeccable writing style of Dorian De LaRue, from page one (literally), was already enough to suck me into this book. It is breath taking and demands attention. Intentionally repetitive, Dorian De LaRue drives home the intent of this story page after page. You may not see what’s coming next, but in the end it all makes sense that that is exactly where Dorian has wanted the reader to be all along. The last page, the cliffhanger, wow. It was nothing I could have prepared for.
May 5, 2025
"𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒑𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒇𝒖𝒍 𝒄𝒂𝒈𝒆𝒔 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒏’𝒕 𝒃𝒖𝒊𝒍𝒕 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒍𝒐𝒄𝒌𝒔—𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒂𝒅𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒘𝒉𝒊𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒅𝒐𝒖𝒃𝒕. 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒌 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒐 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒄𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒐 𝒄𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒊𝒕𝒚. 𝑰𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎 𝒃𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒆𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒚."
The Whispers of A Lie: Part 1, follows our main protagonist Catherine, a woman tangled in the messy knots of addiction and heartbreak. Her fiancé Damian, treats love like a business deal; cold, calculated, and all about control. She's starting to wonder if he even sees her anymore. And just when she’s about to lose herself completely, along comes Fabian, a spark in her already crumbling world.
Best part of the book is that it is multiple POVs. And as all the characters battles their personal demons, they are drawn deeper into a web of lies, control, and deceit. Every character has their own dark secrets, making it difficult to differentiate ally from enemy.
This story is about obsession, manipulation, lies and dark desires. The plot slowly thickens with each chapter, and secrets gets slowly uncovered, leading the characters closer to a truth they’re not ready to face. As this is the first part of a series, the tension builds as the characters’ lives become increasingly entangled in a psychological battle for control, power and survival.
While I haven’t read dark romances lately, this book serves more as a dark psychological journey than a typical romance, making it a perfect pick if you crave intense, edgy narratives. It will make you think of whom to trust and what is going on. Who is the hero, who is the villian?
Overall, The Whispers of A Lie: Part 1 is a promising start to a series filled with twists, turns, and emotional depth. If you enjoy tales of love, betrayal, and fantasy with intricate world-building, this is a book you won't want to miss.
My initial rating is 3.75, rounding up to 4 ⭐ in Goodreads.
The Whispers of A Lie: Part 1, follows our main protagonist Catherine, a woman tangled in the messy knots of addiction and heartbreak. Her fiancé Damian, treats love like a business deal; cold, calculated, and all about control. She's starting to wonder if he even sees her anymore. And just when she’s about to lose herself completely, along comes Fabian, a spark in her already crumbling world.
Best part of the book is that it is multiple POVs. And as all the characters battles their personal demons, they are drawn deeper into a web of lies, control, and deceit. Every character has their own dark secrets, making it difficult to differentiate ally from enemy.
This story is about obsession, manipulation, lies and dark desires. The plot slowly thickens with each chapter, and secrets gets slowly uncovered, leading the characters closer to a truth they’re not ready to face. As this is the first part of a series, the tension builds as the characters’ lives become increasingly entangled in a psychological battle for control, power and survival.
While I haven’t read dark romances lately, this book serves more as a dark psychological journey than a typical romance, making it a perfect pick if you crave intense, edgy narratives. It will make you think of whom to trust and what is going on. Who is the hero, who is the villian?
Overall, The Whispers of A Lie: Part 1 is a promising start to a series filled with twists, turns, and emotional depth. If you enjoy tales of love, betrayal, and fantasy with intricate world-building, this is a book you won't want to miss.
My initial rating is 3.75, rounding up to 4 ⭐ in Goodreads.
May 7, 2025
"Desire does not whisper politely. It presses close, steals the air, leaving you gasping. It creeps—slow, relentless. It twists around the ribs, presses against the throat, allowing just enough air to feel the exquisite pain. Beneath the ruins of a life she promised herself would never change, something had always been waiting."
This book is unlike anything I've read but in the best way. It's dark romance but add mystery and thriller in with it! The attention to details is immaculate. The intertwining of the characters and their relationships keeps you on your toes. The plot will keep you on the edge of your seat begging for more. Yes some of the characters are bat sh*t crazy but that's what I loved most of all. 5 stars!!!!
This book is unlike anything I've read but in the best way. It's dark romance but add mystery and thriller in with it! The attention to details is immaculate. The intertwining of the characters and their relationships keeps you on your toes. The plot will keep you on the edge of your seat begging for more. Yes some of the characters are bat sh*t crazy but that's what I loved most of all. 5 stars!!!!
April 24, 2025
I still haven’t stopped thinking about The Whispers of a Lie Part 1: Beneath The Ashes by Dorian De LaRue since I finished it last night. Catherine Sinclair feels like someone I might’ve grown up with—reserved, sharp, carrying wounds she doesn’t always know how to name. I found myself rooting for her as she navigated the charred remnants of Ashwood Falls, uncovering not just the town’s secrets but the ones she’s kept from herself.
And then there’s Fabian Laurent—equal parts intrigue and danger. He’s the kind of character who makes you lean forward on the page, heart pounding, wondering what he’ll do next. Their connection isn’t a lightning bolt; it’s more like smoldering coals that flare when they collide. Every glance, every half-finished sentence between them feels loaded with meaning, and I caught myself rereading passages just to taste again how electric their tension was.
Yes, the middle of the book slows down just enough for you to catch your breath…and you’ll want to savor those quieter scenes. Catherine texting her brother in the dark, a hushed confession over coffee, the fleeting kindness of a stranger…all those moments made me care even more about what happens next. And when the revelations started rolling in again, I was completely swept away, turning pages so fast I nearly lost my place.
By the last page, I felt both rounded out and hungry for more. Beneath The Ashes is exactly the kind of story I look for: a slow-burn romance wrapped in a mystery that feels deeply personal. If you love books that make your heart race and your mind spin...this one will stick with you long after you’re done reading. Cannot wait for Part 2 !!
And then there’s Fabian Laurent—equal parts intrigue and danger. He’s the kind of character who makes you lean forward on the page, heart pounding, wondering what he’ll do next. Their connection isn’t a lightning bolt; it’s more like smoldering coals that flare when they collide. Every glance, every half-finished sentence between them feels loaded with meaning, and I caught myself rereading passages just to taste again how electric their tension was.
Yes, the middle of the book slows down just enough for you to catch your breath…and you’ll want to savor those quieter scenes. Catherine texting her brother in the dark, a hushed confession over coffee, the fleeting kindness of a stranger…all those moments made me care even more about what happens next. And when the revelations started rolling in again, I was completely swept away, turning pages so fast I nearly lost my place.
By the last page, I felt both rounded out and hungry for more. Beneath The Ashes is exactly the kind of story I look for: a slow-burn romance wrapped in a mystery that feels deeply personal. If you love books that make your heart race and your mind spin...this one will stick with you long after you’re done reading. Cannot wait for Part 2 !!
April 24, 2025
I picked up this book thinking I’d read a few chapters before bed—and suddenly it was 2 a.m., and I was still flipping pages with my heart in my throat. Whispers Of A Lie : Part 1 Beneath The Ashes ,isn’t just a story you read, it’s one you feel your way through..
Catherine Sinclair really stayed with me. There’s something quietly powerful about her—a woman so composed on the outside but unraveling in all the little cracks underneath. I felt for her, deeply. And then Fabian Laurent enters the picture and… wow. Their connection isn’t loud or dramatic….it’s subtle, charged, and laced with so much unsaid. The tension between them is the kind that lingers, the kind you want to read slowly, savoring every look and line.
What surprised me most, though, was how beautifully written the entire book is. Dorian De LaRue doesn’t just write characters…she builds an atmosphere so rich you forget you’re reading fiction.
Sure, there are twists and secrets and a mystery at the core…but for me, it was the emotional weight that made this unforgettable. It’s about longing, about the lies we tell ourselves to survive, and the truths we’re terrified to face. It’s messy, quiet, and heartbreakingly real.
I’ll be thinking about this one for a while. And I’m already impatient for what happens next. If you love emotionally layered stories with a slow-burn romance and a haunting edge, don’t miss this one !
Catherine Sinclair really stayed with me. There’s something quietly powerful about her—a woman so composed on the outside but unraveling in all the little cracks underneath. I felt for her, deeply. And then Fabian Laurent enters the picture and… wow. Their connection isn’t loud or dramatic….it’s subtle, charged, and laced with so much unsaid. The tension between them is the kind that lingers, the kind you want to read slowly, savoring every look and line.
What surprised me most, though, was how beautifully written the entire book is. Dorian De LaRue doesn’t just write characters…she builds an atmosphere so rich you forget you’re reading fiction.
Sure, there are twists and secrets and a mystery at the core…but for me, it was the emotional weight that made this unforgettable. It’s about longing, about the lies we tell ourselves to survive, and the truths we’re terrified to face. It’s messy, quiet, and heartbreakingly real.
I’ll be thinking about this one for a while. And I’m already impatient for what happens next. If you love emotionally layered stories with a slow-burn romance and a haunting edge, don’t miss this one !
March 21, 2025
Beneath the Ashes is a masterfully written psychological thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. With sharp prose and a chillingly atmospheric setting, the author delivers a gripping tale of suspense, betrayal, and dark secrets.
The characters are exceptionally well-crafted, with complex personalities and motivations that make them feel eerily real. The protagonist’s struggle to untangle the truth from a web of lies is both compelling and heartbreaking. As the plot unfolds, you’re drawn deeper into a shadowy world where no one can be trusted, and every revelation is more shocking than the last.
What sets Beneath the Ashes apart is the author’s skillful pacing and attention to detail. The twists are unpredictable yet carefully foreshadowed, leaving you desperate to turn the next page. The themes of obsession, power, and redemption are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth to an already enthralling story.
If you enjoy thrillers with rich character development, dark intrigue, and nail-biting suspense, Beneath the Ashes is a must-read. I highly recommend it to fans of psychological thrillers and anyone who loves a well-crafted mystery.
The characters are exceptionally well-crafted, with complex personalities and motivations that make them feel eerily real. The protagonist’s struggle to untangle the truth from a web of lies is both compelling and heartbreaking. As the plot unfolds, you’re drawn deeper into a shadowy world where no one can be trusted, and every revelation is more shocking than the last.
What sets Beneath the Ashes apart is the author’s skillful pacing and attention to detail. The twists are unpredictable yet carefully foreshadowed, leaving you desperate to turn the next page. The themes of obsession, power, and redemption are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth to an already enthralling story.
If you enjoy thrillers with rich character development, dark intrigue, and nail-biting suspense, Beneath the Ashes is a must-read. I highly recommend it to fans of psychological thrillers and anyone who loves a well-crafted mystery.
April 27, 2025
I received this book as an advanced reader copy and I truly enjoyed it.
This book tortured my soul in all of the best ways and I want more! So much more!!!
All I can say about this book is... oh my! This book delivers in so many ways. I absolutely loved the FMC Catherine Sinclair. She was relatable in so many ways. Being stuck in a relationship with a man who only thinks about himself as well as power and control, can push you to do some things you wouldn't normally do or would you?
I'd loved seeing the evolution of Catherine and how she went from like this almost demure female to this woman who knew exactly what she wanted and she had no problem going for it, even if it was wrong. Her atrraction to Fabien was smoldering.
Catherines obsession and the twist and turns kept me on the edge of my seat. If you're looking for a book that will emotionally drive you crazy in all the best ways, give you the obsession that you need along with some danger and twists at every turn, then this is the one for you. I literally can't wait for the next book. This was the psychological thriller I've been looking for.
This book tortured my soul in all of the best ways and I want more! So much more!!!
All I can say about this book is... oh my! This book delivers in so many ways. I absolutely loved the FMC Catherine Sinclair. She was relatable in so many ways. Being stuck in a relationship with a man who only thinks about himself as well as power and control, can push you to do some things you wouldn't normally do or would you?
I'd loved seeing the evolution of Catherine and how she went from like this almost demure female to this woman who knew exactly what she wanted and she had no problem going for it, even if it was wrong. Her atrraction to Fabien was smoldering.
Catherines obsession and the twist and turns kept me on the edge of my seat. If you're looking for a book that will emotionally drive you crazy in all the best ways, give you the obsession that you need along with some danger and twists at every turn, then this is the one for you. I literally can't wait for the next book. This was the psychological thriller I've been looking for.
May 22, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
This book had me hooked from the very start. Now this was my first dark romance so I didn’t really know what to expect going into it but I really enjoyed it. I loved the writing style, how we changed character perspectives so smoothly and the repetition of some phrases emphasised them. Omg Damien is actually psychotic! And good on Catherine for getting out of there. The only thing that really got me, especially towards the end, was how much cheating was brought up, which made sense from Fabian’s pov but I just didn’t really enjoy that.
I need the next part NOW! So many unanswered questions!
Some of my fav quotes were:
“Fabian Laurent was not a man you noticed - he was a man who demanded noticing.”
“Because once you’ve lived under someones’ shadow for long enough, you start to wonder if you exist without it.”
“Because for the first time in her life - she was not waiting to be seen. She was making them look. And she was not sure she could stop. Even if she wanted too. Even if she had to.”
“But lies didn’t just slip through your fingers when they unraveled. They tightened. They constricted. They strangled.”
“Love was meant to consume.”
This book had me hooked from the very start. Now this was my first dark romance so I didn’t really know what to expect going into it but I really enjoyed it. I loved the writing style, how we changed character perspectives so smoothly and the repetition of some phrases emphasised them. Omg Damien is actually psychotic! And good on Catherine for getting out of there. The only thing that really got me, especially towards the end, was how much cheating was brought up, which made sense from Fabian’s pov but I just didn’t really enjoy that.
I need the next part NOW! So many unanswered questions!
Some of my fav quotes were:
“Fabian Laurent was not a man you noticed - he was a man who demanded noticing.”
“Because once you’ve lived under someones’ shadow for long enough, you start to wonder if you exist without it.”
“Because for the first time in her life - she was not waiting to be seen. She was making them look. And she was not sure she could stop. Even if she wanted too. Even if she had to.”
“But lies didn’t just slip through your fingers when they unraveled. They tightened. They constricted. They strangled.”
“Love was meant to consume.”
June 18, 2025
This is a dark, emotionally intense story with beautiful writing.
Pros:
- The writing is beautiful and emotionally grounded.
- Strong, moody atmosphere. There’s this quiet tension that runs through the whole book. Everything—from the relationships to the setting—feels heavy and charged, which works really well for the story being told.
- Emotional tension and chemistry that feels raw. The MC's dynamic has a weight to it, and while it’s far from lighthearted, it definitely holds your attention.
Other thoughts:
- Heavy themes that might be too much for some. There’s a lot here—abuse, control, trauma—and it’s intense. It felt realistic, but definitely not easy to read.
- The pacing is a bit slow. I don’t mind a slow burn, but this took a little to really get going.
- Lots of chaos and drama in this one. It worked for me, but may not for some ! It could feel chaotic in the story.
Thank you to the author for the e-copy on exchange for an honest review.
Pros:
- The writing is beautiful and emotionally grounded.
- Strong, moody atmosphere. There’s this quiet tension that runs through the whole book. Everything—from the relationships to the setting—feels heavy and charged, which works really well for the story being told.
- Emotional tension and chemistry that feels raw. The MC's dynamic has a weight to it, and while it’s far from lighthearted, it definitely holds your attention.
Other thoughts:
- Heavy themes that might be too much for some. There’s a lot here—abuse, control, trauma—and it’s intense. It felt realistic, but definitely not easy to read.
- The pacing is a bit slow. I don’t mind a slow burn, but this took a little to really get going.
- Lots of chaos and drama in this one. It worked for me, but may not for some ! It could feel chaotic in the story.
Thank you to the author for the e-copy on exchange for an honest review.
April 25, 2025
“She has spent her life begging to be seen. Always watching from the sidelines, always wanting, always waiting for men she desired to notice her—to pull her from the background, to claim her as something worthy of pursuit.”
This is a psychological thriller about a woman named Catherine who is engaged, but she craves another man, in this story you can see the level of her obsession and the things she is willing to do to get what she wants.
This book had me at the edge of my seat, it’s so addictive, you never know what’s going to happen and it has so many twists that you never truly know who the dangerous one is. Just when you start to believe one thing it turns out to be something else, it was so fun.
I didn’t think I would enjoy this that much at first but it turned out to be really fun and entertaining the way that the story keeps you guessing and anticipating what’s going to happen.
This is a psychological thriller about a woman named Catherine who is engaged, but she craves another man, in this story you can see the level of her obsession and the things she is willing to do to get what she wants.
This book had me at the edge of my seat, it’s so addictive, you never know what’s going to happen and it has so many twists that you never truly know who the dangerous one is. Just when you start to believe one thing it turns out to be something else, it was so fun.
I didn’t think I would enjoy this that much at first but it turned out to be really fun and entertaining the way that the story keeps you guessing and anticipating what’s going to happen.
May 5, 2025
Catherine is engaged to Damien
- a man who thrives on
dominance and control. She had
always been overlooked, until
meeting Fabian changed
something in her. Now she
wants to be seen. By him.
• multi POV
• psychological thriller
• suspense
• slow burn
• obsession; manipulation
"Was it wrong to manipulate, to lie, to take what she
wanted? Maybe. But was it worth it if it meant finally
being seen? Finally being wanted?"
There's a well-known Afrikaans proverb: "Stille waters, diepe grond. Onder draai die duiwel rond" which means "Still waters run deep, and that is where the devil roams." This proverb replayed in my head as I read this book. You will have to read the book if you want to know why!
I enjoyed the multi POV. I was hooked from the start, trying to figure out the characters. If you are looking for a psychological suspense type of story filled with obsession, lies this one is for you.
Thank you @thewhispersofalie for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
- a man who thrives on
dominance and control. She had
always been overlooked, until
meeting Fabian changed
something in her. Now she
wants to be seen. By him.
• multi POV
• psychological thriller
• suspense
• slow burn
• obsession; manipulation
"Was it wrong to manipulate, to lie, to take what she
wanted? Maybe. But was it worth it if it meant finally
being seen? Finally being wanted?"
There's a well-known Afrikaans proverb: "Stille waters, diepe grond. Onder draai die duiwel rond" which means "Still waters run deep, and that is where the devil roams." This proverb replayed in my head as I read this book. You will have to read the book if you want to know why!
I enjoyed the multi POV. I was hooked from the start, trying to figure out the characters. If you are looking for a psychological suspense type of story filled with obsession, lies this one is for you.
Thank you @thewhispersofalie for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 27, 2025
If you thought part 1 was crazy, part 2 throws everything you think you knew out the window. This is an epic blend of obsession, madness and desperation, that blurs all the lines and makes you doubt everything.
So many questions were answered, but it also opens so many new ones that it has your head spinning.
I was constantly torn in identifying victims, monsters and survivors, and trying to work out Catherine's role in everything.
This definitely ups the stakes with the danger and darkness, and highlighted mental health struggles, emotional vulnerability and coping methods.
The narrative is filled with intricate details and it really exposes the characters flaws, showcasing the delusions and the mind games, and has you questioning reality. It is raw, haunting, and will consume you.
This is a story that will stick with you long after you've finished.
So many questions were answered, but it also opens so many new ones that it has your head spinning.
I was constantly torn in identifying victims, monsters and survivors, and trying to work out Catherine's role in everything.
This definitely ups the stakes with the danger and darkness, and highlighted mental health struggles, emotional vulnerability and coping methods.
The narrative is filled with intricate details and it really exposes the characters flaws, showcasing the delusions and the mind games, and has you questioning reality. It is raw, haunting, and will consume you.
This is a story that will stick with you long after you've finished.
May 4, 2025
I will start off as always by stating this is my personal opinion.
I’m not a big fan of office romance, but this was about far more than the setting.
The descriptive writing captivates you to delve deeper into each character, giving you twists and turns to what you think may happen.
I won’t call it a romance, as that seems too sweet and happy of a word to describe the darkness and desire this book writes about, but it is addictive!
It leaves you on a cliffhanger needing more.. the same way Catherine needs more…
I’m not a big fan of office romance, but this was about far more than the setting.
The descriptive writing captivates you to delve deeper into each character, giving you twists and turns to what you think may happen.
I won’t call it a romance, as that seems too sweet and happy of a word to describe the darkness and desire this book writes about, but it is addictive!
It leaves you on a cliffhanger needing more.. the same way Catherine needs more…
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2025
Where to begin … wow …. just wow 🤯. This thrilling, haunting story of deception, twists, manipulation, reality and delusion is a must read! The descriptive language drew visions in my mind that will stick with me. I feel that an edit to my review is eminent as my mind is still blown. My advice - take your time, absorb EVERYTHING as there’ll be tidbits of information that will be so important. I look forward to future stories from Dorian De LaRue and hope they will consider me again for future ARC opportunities.
May 7, 2025
Wow — what a wild ride! The suspense in this book is chef’s kiss — so well done. The first half slowly pulls you in, but once I hit the halfway point, I could not put it down. I devoured the last half in one sitting, completely hooked by all the twists and secrets. Just when I thought I had it figured out… nope. If you love psychological twists that keep you guessing and have you racing through the pages, this one is a must-read. Can’t wait for Part 2!
May 27, 2025
Ok this book was a wild ride! It’s a suspense thriller with dark romance. This book kept me guessing up until the very end, and I’m still wondering what’s next. It’s one of those books where you think you figured it out, and then it throws you another twist 🤪
This book is very well written, and the author really surprised me at how they developed each character. It’s one of those books you wish you could re read for the first time again!
This book is very well written, and the author really surprised me at how they developed each character. It’s one of those books you wish you could re read for the first time again!
May 29, 2025
Even if you don't usually read thriller books, don't let that stop you. The author has an talent for creating knife spilting atmosphere. The story is told through multiple POV and that increases the immersion.
American psycho meets Girl on a train Vipes.
Twists and tension, you won't regret reading this book.
American psycho meets Girl on a train Vipes.
Twists and tension, you won't regret reading this book.
May 7, 2025
ARC Review – 5/5 ⭐
This was my first ARC read—and I have to say, it hooked me completely.
Every corner held a twist. Every turn forced me to flip back, questioning what I’d missed and what might be coming next. Even then, I still couldn’t guess what was around the bend. It kept me thinking, kept me tense, and I loved it.
I saw a few reviews mention the repetition as something they struggled with. At first, I noticed it too—but the deeper I got, the more I understood its purpose. The words weren’t just repeating—they were echoing. Screaming in quiet ways through the pages. It’s a masterclass in foreshadowing: subtle yet direct, layered with meaning. Every breadcrumb mattered. Every twist had been quietly set up long before it landed.
This is easily one of the more cleverly written books I’ve read. The use of multiple POVs and deliberate detail made this a full 5-star experience for me. It’s a true psychological suspense thriller with an undercurrent of dark romance—obsessive, messy, and magnetic.
The characters feel real. Uncomfortably real. Their voices, their flaws, their quiet unravelings—they don’t feel like fiction. And I agree with other reviewers who called it authentic. This story doesn’t just entertain; it pulls you under.
But fair warning: if you struggle to track intricate threads or you prefer stories spelled out clearly, this may not be your book.
However—If you love subtle clues, deliberate storytelling, and narratives that make you work for it? This is an absolute must-read.
Highly recommend.
This was my first ARC read—and I have to say, it hooked me completely.
Every corner held a twist. Every turn forced me to flip back, questioning what I’d missed and what might be coming next. Even then, I still couldn’t guess what was around the bend. It kept me thinking, kept me tense, and I loved it.
I saw a few reviews mention the repetition as something they struggled with. At first, I noticed it too—but the deeper I got, the more I understood its purpose. The words weren’t just repeating—they were echoing. Screaming in quiet ways through the pages. It’s a masterclass in foreshadowing: subtle yet direct, layered with meaning. Every breadcrumb mattered. Every twist had been quietly set up long before it landed.
This is easily one of the more cleverly written books I’ve read. The use of multiple POVs and deliberate detail made this a full 5-star experience for me. It’s a true psychological suspense thriller with an undercurrent of dark romance—obsessive, messy, and magnetic.
The characters feel real. Uncomfortably real. Their voices, their flaws, their quiet unravelings—they don’t feel like fiction. And I agree with other reviewers who called it authentic. This story doesn’t just entertain; it pulls you under.
But fair warning: if you struggle to track intricate threads or you prefer stories spelled out clearly, this may not be your book.
However—If you love subtle clues, deliberate storytelling, and narratives that make you work for it? This is an absolute must-read.
Highly recommend.
September 17, 2025
4/5 Stars ⭐️
This book is chaos wrapped in suspense. Dorian De LaRue has a way with words and knows how to put emotions into those words.
In the beginning, I found what was being said a bit repetitive BUT it's foreshadowing and its intention.
The characters are all woven together and you don't truly know what's going to happen next. Suspense at its finest. You don't know or understand who the heroes are or who the villains are.
I loved how the POVs changed, even mid-scene. The emotions of these characters felt extremely real.
Can't wait to see how all this ends in Part 2.
This book is chaos wrapped in suspense. Dorian De LaRue has a way with words and knows how to put emotions into those words.
In the beginning, I found what was being said a bit repetitive BUT it's foreshadowing and its intention.
The characters are all woven together and you don't truly know what's going to happen next. Suspense at its finest. You don't know or understand who the heroes are or who the villains are.
I loved how the POVs changed, even mid-scene. The emotions of these characters felt extremely real.
Can't wait to see how all this ends in Part 2.
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