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The Truth #1
Lies And Truth
When Isla Holmes life as a child is turned upside down and she is ripped away from her soul mate, she is forced to live a life with evil.
When Isla and her soul mate cross paths will they find a happy ever after or will evil intervene?
When Isla and her soul mate cross paths will they find a happy ever after or will evil intervene?
146 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 4, 2014
6 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
About the author
Elaine May
16 books130 followersElaine May is my Author name. I live in the South West of England with my two beautiful daughters and yummy hubby. I love reading dark and twisted tales that mess with your head. I love to travel and spending time with my family. My dream is for people to like what i've written and hopefully get to go to a book signing event as an author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
March 4, 2015
This is the first time I have read a book by Elaine May and it certainly won't be the last. I'm already chomping at the bit for book 2!
This is a horrible story. Not horrible as in a crap book, but horrible as in the subject matter.
If you want a boo hiss villain, you are subjected to not one but two of them in this book. Jack and John are despicable creatures. The lies they have told, their business dealings, what they have subjected Isla to for years and the rest of their families; their murderous souls are beyond redemption.
Isla has been beaten, abused, humiliated and treated worse than a dog, yet she still sees it in her heart to want to protect Josh. And Josh....he wants to right the wrongs. He wants his girl.
I enjoyed the basics of the story. The writing style was very straight to the point with no padded frills and I liked that. The chapters were very short, as were the sentences.
My only problem with this book was the time frame. At one point I thought she had been missing for 4 years and I thought the chances of Josh not recognising her after such a short space of time were far fetched. But then I realised it was actually 10 years which seemed more reasonable. But then I got to thinking that Isla was 12 when they parted and Josh was a few years older than her....and they were both in love with each other.....do you see where I'm going with this!!
Anyway, it was an enjoyable, if not emotional read and well deserving of the 4 stars I'm giving it. I would have given 5 but the timescale was confusing and also the ending was abrupt. Yes I realise the author wanted to leave us on the cliff, but she didn't just leave us near the edge, she left us free falling into the abyss!
This is a horrible story. Not horrible as in a crap book, but horrible as in the subject matter.
If you want a boo hiss villain, you are subjected to not one but two of them in this book. Jack and John are despicable creatures. The lies they have told, their business dealings, what they have subjected Isla to for years and the rest of their families; their murderous souls are beyond redemption.
Isla has been beaten, abused, humiliated and treated worse than a dog, yet she still sees it in her heart to want to protect Josh. And Josh....he wants to right the wrongs. He wants his girl.
I enjoyed the basics of the story. The writing style was very straight to the point with no padded frills and I liked that. The chapters were very short, as were the sentences.
My only problem with this book was the time frame. At one point I thought she had been missing for 4 years and I thought the chances of Josh not recognising her after such a short space of time were far fetched. But then I realised it was actually 10 years which seemed more reasonable. But then I got to thinking that Isla was 12 when they parted and Josh was a few years older than her....and they were both in love with each other.....do you see where I'm going with this!!
Anyway, it was an enjoyable, if not emotional read and well deserving of the 4 stars I'm giving it. I would have given 5 but the timescale was confusing and also the ending was abrupt. Yes I realise the author wanted to leave us on the cliff, but she didn't just leave us near the edge, she left us free falling into the abyss!
April 21, 2015
Wow.. This story is fill with so many twist and turns you won't be able to put it down. There is one surprise after another. It is not a typical love story. It is a very raw read. The Characters are well developed, The story flows smoothly. Isla has suffered so much from the people she loves and now life has thrown another challenge her way. Will Isla every recover from the events that have plagued her life since a very young age? Is life happiness in the cards for her? I can't wait to find out...
Merged review:
Dark and intriguing !
Wow.. This story is fill with so many twist and turns you won't be able to put it down. There is one surprise after another. It is not a typical love story. It is a very raw read. The Characters are well developed, The story flows smoothly. Isla has suffered so much from the people she loves and now life has thrown another challenge her way. Will Isla every recover from the events that have plagued her life since a very young age? Is life happiness in the cards for her? I can't wait to find out...
Merged review:
Dark and intriguing !
Wow.. This story is fill with so many twist and turns you won't be able to put it down. There is one surprise after another. It is not a typical love story. It is a very raw read. The Characters are well developed, The story flows smoothly. Isla has suffered so much from the people she loves and now life has thrown another challenge her way. Will Isla every recover from the events that have plagued her life since a very young age? Is life happiness in the cards for her? I can't wait to find out...
October 25, 2014
Lies and Truth (book 1 in the Truth series) by Elaine May
Reviewed by Amy for Drama Queens Book Blog.
****contains spoilers****
4 out of 5 stars
I want to start out by saying this book ends as a cliffhanger. However, according to the Author's note at the end of the story, book two should be out in December.
This book was an enjoyable quick read. It is the tragic story of Isla. When the story begins we get a bit of back story on her family, Isla and her father were part of a family that they were not related to by blood although they were treated as if they were. Isla losses her mother as a newborn and then at 12 loses her father, grandfather and her aunt and uncle; and is then taken by her remaining uncle and a cousin. She is shipped off to boarding school till she turns 18 at which time she is brought back to the US and held captive by her uncle John and cousin Jack in the basement of the family estate, being used for their pleasure. After 3 long years she is taken from the basement and moved into a suite at the families hotel and made to go to work as her Jack's PA at the families business. Once out of the basement she runs into Joshua, her other cousin and a man who at a young age Isla fell in love with. Although Joshua doesn't realize she is Isla he is quite drawn to her. As the story unfolds Joshua tries to save Isla and the family business from his uncle John and Jack.
While this book is a dark romance we are actually not given too many details on Isla's treatment by Jack. We are given glimpses and a lot is insinuated but not as graphic as some I have read before. That is until their final attack on her which is a bit more graphic. I like the idea of Isla and Joshua being destined since they were children to be together.
However, although it had been 10 years since they had last seen each other, I found it hard to believe they didn't recognize each other at first. I also found it a little hard to believe after all her years of abuse how quickly she let Joshua take her to bed. Other than that, the book mostly worked for me. I was a bit confused on the timing of events till I went back and re-read the first chapter, which cleared it up for me a bit.
Reviewed by Amy for Drama Queens Book Blog.
****contains spoilers****
4 out of 5 stars
I want to start out by saying this book ends as a cliffhanger. However, according to the Author's note at the end of the story, book two should be out in December.
This book was an enjoyable quick read. It is the tragic story of Isla. When the story begins we get a bit of back story on her family, Isla and her father were part of a family that they were not related to by blood although they were treated as if they were. Isla losses her mother as a newborn and then at 12 loses her father, grandfather and her aunt and uncle; and is then taken by her remaining uncle and a cousin. She is shipped off to boarding school till she turns 18 at which time she is brought back to the US and held captive by her uncle John and cousin Jack in the basement of the family estate, being used for their pleasure. After 3 long years she is taken from the basement and moved into a suite at the families hotel and made to go to work as her Jack's PA at the families business. Once out of the basement she runs into Joshua, her other cousin and a man who at a young age Isla fell in love with. Although Joshua doesn't realize she is Isla he is quite drawn to her. As the story unfolds Joshua tries to save Isla and the family business from his uncle John and Jack.
While this book is a dark romance we are actually not given too many details on Isla's treatment by Jack. We are given glimpses and a lot is insinuated but not as graphic as some I have read before. That is until their final attack on her which is a bit more graphic. I like the idea of Isla and Joshua being destined since they were children to be together.
However, although it had been 10 years since they had last seen each other, I found it hard to believe they didn't recognize each other at first. I also found it a little hard to believe after all her years of abuse how quickly she let Joshua take her to bed. Other than that, the book mostly worked for me. I was a bit confused on the timing of events till I went back and re-read the first chapter, which cleared it up for me a bit.
September 14, 2014
What a fantastic book!
The story kept me gripped (I can't wait for book 2) but what I loved most was the characters. They felt real, and the relationships between them all were absolutely compelling. A great read.
The story kept me gripped (I can't wait for book 2) but what I loved most was the characters. They felt real, and the relationships between them all were absolutely compelling. A great read.
December 10, 2014
I received a copy of Lies And Truth in exchange for an honest review.
The synopsis had me very intrigued. The cover you can tell there is pain.
Everything happened so fast in the beginning it was a little confusing, but then it slowed down and everything just flowed. Isla is a 22 y/o young lady that has been through hell and back. She lost her family at twelve and was then taken away from the life she knew. When she got back to the states at the age of 18, her life was never the same. She was brought into hell. In her mind she's probably just thinking over and over:
She's used, abused, and dragged through the mud (figuratively speaking that is). So when she is finally given some freedom there has to be a catch right!? Of course there is, it's so she can be at his beck and call whenever he wants. Rules, rules, and more rules. She was kept in a basement for four years almost. She was told lies, lies that made her feel worthless and not question why they were doing what it is they were doing. Her uncle and cousin. Not by blood of course.
When she was younger before the death of her parents she was best friends with Joshua. They were always together, everyone loved them. They always believed they would be together forever. However when his dad died he was sent away. Sent away to work of the company. So when he arrives back in town, he is on a mission. A mission to figure out what the hell is going on with his grandpa's business.
Joshie runs into Isla and there is something about her that he recognizes, but it can't be his Isla. She died in the accident with her parents and his. Right!? Something isn't sitting right with him, and he's going to figure it out. So over a month Isla and Joshie get closer, and start to build a relationship. However Jack always has to make it known where her place is. He owns her. But for how much longer!?
Answers come out and I'm going to say, SHOCKED!!!!!
The ending left me speechless. Literally speechless. Now that says A LOT!
We are given a sneak peek at the first chapter of the 2nd book, and HOLY CRAP!
I'm so ready to find out what the hell happens. Cause at this point anything is possible.
It's a phenomenal read. It will leave you guessing, sitting on the edge of your seat. Intense, intense, intense.
I highly recommend. Go grab yourself a copy and get to reading.
5+ stars from me!
The synopsis had me very intrigued. The cover you can tell there is pain.
Everything happened so fast in the beginning it was a little confusing, but then it slowed down and everything just flowed. Isla is a 22 y/o young lady that has been through hell and back. She lost her family at twelve and was then taken away from the life she knew. When she got back to the states at the age of 18, her life was never the same. She was brought into hell. In her mind she's probably just thinking over and over:
She's used, abused, and dragged through the mud (figuratively speaking that is). So when she is finally given some freedom there has to be a catch right!? Of course there is, it's so she can be at his beck and call whenever he wants. Rules, rules, and more rules. She was kept in a basement for four years almost. She was told lies, lies that made her feel worthless and not question why they were doing what it is they were doing. Her uncle and cousin. Not by blood of course.
When she was younger before the death of her parents she was best friends with Joshua. They were always together, everyone loved them. They always believed they would be together forever. However when his dad died he was sent away. Sent away to work of the company. So when he arrives back in town, he is on a mission. A mission to figure out what the hell is going on with his grandpa's business.
Joshie runs into Isla and there is something about her that he recognizes, but it can't be his Isla. She died in the accident with her parents and his. Right!? Something isn't sitting right with him, and he's going to figure it out. So over a month Isla and Joshie get closer, and start to build a relationship. However Jack always has to make it known where her place is. He owns her. But for how much longer!?
Answers come out and I'm going to say, SHOCKED!!!!!
The ending left me speechless. Literally speechless. Now that says A LOT!
We are given a sneak peek at the first chapter of the 2nd book, and HOLY CRAP!
I'm so ready to find out what the hell happens. Cause at this point anything is possible.
It's a phenomenal read. It will leave you guessing, sitting on the edge of your seat. Intense, intense, intense.
I highly recommend. Go grab yourself a copy and get to reading.
5+ stars from me!
August 26, 2014
Lies and Truth by Elaine May
WOW… the plot is dark and twisted and I loved it! The struggle to the two main characters have to go through is heartbreaking, and the ending will certainly leave you with gasp and a “No freaking way.” The way Isla goes from starry eyed child with life freedom in front of her to shattered hopeless romantic adult. And Joshua goes from innocent child to a man on a mission to discover what has happened within his family in his absence. These two have a heartbreaking journey into a possible happily ever after.
Isla wow, she is such a strong character to still have that happy exterior in front of others while devastation lives on the inside. Her child innocents are beyond gone thanks to, two worthless men. I wanted to cry and beat them for her, the way she is written is soul shattering and makes the reader feel rage for her well done Eliane for that. Joshua our hero, you almost want to yell at him to see who Isla is… like “hello there she is!!”
Once recognition is made he stops at nothing to see Isla gets justice for all the wrong doing done to her. His fierce protectiveness for her is really sexy as hell. Now, as for the other two… I have never yelled so many obscenities at two fictional people before; it was hard to read and not want to seek some revenge for Isla. But after my blood quit boiling and continued to read the surprises just keep coming.
Then thing I loved the most was Joshua’s love for Isla, even years apart couldn’t stop their souls form seeking each other. Once reunited, and the initial shock was over Joshua makes it his mission to seek out those who have harmed her and make their lives crumble as they have done to hers. Regardless of statues Joshua and Isla go head to head with the monsters, it was so awesome to see Isla put her big girl panties and tell them she doesn’t fear them…but at what cost does her bravery pay?
“I could never regret this. I have never felt so loved.”
“I love you so much Isla, I will send the rest of my days showing you how beautiful it could be if you will allow me too.”
In a nutshell this has everything for the making of a great dark romance. The suspense is great and the heartache is just that painful, yet great to read as the story takes an even darker twist at the end. When you’re literally on the edge of your seat and gasp at the end… Elaine has written a book that will keep you up with anticipation for the next one; seriously if you like a dark romances this one for you. So go click on your book buying retailer and get ready for the emotional roller-coaster of emotions. As always Happy Reading!
WOW… the plot is dark and twisted and I loved it! The struggle to the two main characters have to go through is heartbreaking, and the ending will certainly leave you with gasp and a “No freaking way.” The way Isla goes from starry eyed child with life freedom in front of her to shattered hopeless romantic adult. And Joshua goes from innocent child to a man on a mission to discover what has happened within his family in his absence. These two have a heartbreaking journey into a possible happily ever after.
Isla wow, she is such a strong character to still have that happy exterior in front of others while devastation lives on the inside. Her child innocents are beyond gone thanks to, two worthless men. I wanted to cry and beat them for her, the way she is written is soul shattering and makes the reader feel rage for her well done Eliane for that. Joshua our hero, you almost want to yell at him to see who Isla is… like “hello there she is!!”
Once recognition is made he stops at nothing to see Isla gets justice for all the wrong doing done to her. His fierce protectiveness for her is really sexy as hell. Now, as for the other two… I have never yelled so many obscenities at two fictional people before; it was hard to read and not want to seek some revenge for Isla. But after my blood quit boiling and continued to read the surprises just keep coming.
Then thing I loved the most was Joshua’s love for Isla, even years apart couldn’t stop their souls form seeking each other. Once reunited, and the initial shock was over Joshua makes it his mission to seek out those who have harmed her and make their lives crumble as they have done to hers. Regardless of statues Joshua and Isla go head to head with the monsters, it was so awesome to see Isla put her big girl panties and tell them she doesn’t fear them…but at what cost does her bravery pay?
“I could never regret this. I have never felt so loved.”
“I love you so much Isla, I will send the rest of my days showing you how beautiful it could be if you will allow me too.”
In a nutshell this has everything for the making of a great dark romance. The suspense is great and the heartache is just that painful, yet great to read as the story takes an even darker twist at the end. When you’re literally on the edge of your seat and gasp at the end… Elaine has written a book that will keep you up with anticipation for the next one; seriously if you like a dark romances this one for you. So go click on your book buying retailer and get ready for the emotional roller-coaster of emotions. As always Happy Reading!
March 14, 2015
Lies and Truth is the first part in the series written by Elaine May. The book take place over the whole course of Isla's life. Isla is living the life that no one should have to, she is taken away from all the good that was in her life and forced into a living hell, one that she thinks on some level she must deserve. Everyday she is forced to submit to the twisted demands that are put on her, not knowing what is going to happen to herself from day to day; the only thing that keeps her going is the thoughts and memories of a boy from her childhood that always knew how to make her happy. But all he is now is the man of her dreams. What will happen when fate gives Isla a glimmer of hope?
First and foremost it is important to note that this book is not intended for anyone under the age of 18. Also some of the subject matter maybe hard to handle, this story does include sexual abuse, slavery and torture. Now with that being said, this is the first book that I have read by Elaine May, and I am happy to report if wont be the last! She really did an amazing job taking you on this mind bending twisted ride. Also this book does end in a cliffhanger, but thankful I have already started reading the second one and can't wait to see what kind of ride I am taken on during book two! Lies and Truth was one of those books that I had to stay up late reading until my eyes couldn't see straight anymore and I had no choice BUT to put it down. I just had to keep reading and wanted to see what happened next. It's definitely one of those books where the reader keeps saying one more page, but you know your not stopping at just one more. The author did a great job making an easy read out of a tough subject matter. I would HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone looking for a good read with a twist!
First and foremost it is important to note that this book is not intended for anyone under the age of 18. Also some of the subject matter maybe hard to handle, this story does include sexual abuse, slavery and torture. Now with that being said, this is the first book that I have read by Elaine May, and I am happy to report if wont be the last! She really did an amazing job taking you on this mind bending twisted ride. Also this book does end in a cliffhanger, but thankful I have already started reading the second one and can't wait to see what kind of ride I am taken on during book two! Lies and Truth was one of those books that I had to stay up late reading until my eyes couldn't see straight anymore and I had no choice BUT to put it down. I just had to keep reading and wanted to see what happened next. It's definitely one of those books where the reader keeps saying one more page, but you know your not stopping at just one more. The author did a great job making an easy read out of a tough subject matter. I would HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone looking for a good read with a twist!
February 15, 2015
Book: Lies and Truth – Book #1
Author: Elaine May
Publication Date: 8/6/2014
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 4 Stars
REVIEW
Isla and Josh were raised together as children and it was always said they were fated to be together forever.
Isla had issues with nightmares after many things happened when she was a child and also the death of her father in a tragic way.
Isla's dad William and Adam Bryant were best friends and after the death of his parents The Bryant’s they raised him as one of their own sons but after the death Jackson Bryant everything began to change and there was a lot of arguing amongst the 3 boys on how the business should be run. John Bryant however had an issue and it was he who didn't help when the accident happened. Isla remembers it all in her nightmares.
Josh is the Bryant's youngest grandson and he was always caring for Isla they had a very special bond even as children.
Jack Bryant the son of John Bryant is the one who takes something away from Isla she can never get back.
Josh goes away after he thought Isla died in the car with her father. He is back only now to find out that she may not be dead? What is going on?
What will he do when he finds out what his uncle and cousin have been up to?
This story is one tragic event after another for a young girl who is now a grown woman but still caught up in the past and its horrid events. The story bounces around a bit too much at times it was hard to tell what was happening and when It also needed editing. And it leaves us with a cliffhanger.
I was gifted this book for my honest review
Lies And Truth
Author: Elaine May
Publication Date: 8/6/2014
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 4 Stars
REVIEW
Isla and Josh were raised together as children and it was always said they were fated to be together forever.
Isla had issues with nightmares after many things happened when she was a child and also the death of her father in a tragic way.
Isla's dad William and Adam Bryant were best friends and after the death of his parents The Bryant’s they raised him as one of their own sons but after the death Jackson Bryant everything began to change and there was a lot of arguing amongst the 3 boys on how the business should be run. John Bryant however had an issue and it was he who didn't help when the accident happened. Isla remembers it all in her nightmares.
Josh is the Bryant's youngest grandson and he was always caring for Isla they had a very special bond even as children.
Jack Bryant the son of John Bryant is the one who takes something away from Isla she can never get back.
Josh goes away after he thought Isla died in the car with her father. He is back only now to find out that she may not be dead? What is going on?
What will he do when he finds out what his uncle and cousin have been up to?
This story is one tragic event after another for a young girl who is now a grown woman but still caught up in the past and its horrid events. The story bounces around a bit too much at times it was hard to tell what was happening and when It also needed editing. And it leaves us with a cliffhanger.
I was gifted this book for my honest review
Lies And Truth
October 19, 2014
First off I love how in the start of the story Jackson believes in fate and has such a strong family value.
Now wow!!! I had no idea that this book would be like sucker punch to the gut emotionally. And packed with such heartache and at the same time filled with timeless love.
Isla and Joshua as children made my heart warm and my thoughts fell in agreement with *Grandpa* Even though Isla had been through so much a spark was kept alive deep inside of her waiting on the right moment, the right time.
Joshua, I seriously loved how even though to him she was supposed to be one person his heart replied that she was another.
A critic would say that victims do not act like this, that Isla should act a certain way, but I say that Isla was a victim and still is she is also a SURVIVOR!!
When you reach the end you will want to react just like Joshua and punch a wall because the story leaves us in a Oh shit, damnit cliffhanger!!! But it was worth it, awesome job to Author Elaine May, definitely would recommend this book to a certain age group of course no kiddo's :) I know have a case of sadness why because I have to wait until Joshua and Isla's next book..
I received a copy by the author for a honest review.
Now wow!!! I had no idea that this book would be like sucker punch to the gut emotionally. And packed with such heartache and at the same time filled with timeless love.
Isla and Joshua as children made my heart warm and my thoughts fell in agreement with *Grandpa* Even though Isla had been through so much a spark was kept alive deep inside of her waiting on the right moment, the right time.
Joshua, I seriously loved how even though to him she was supposed to be one person his heart replied that she was another.
A critic would say that victims do not act like this, that Isla should act a certain way, but I say that Isla was a victim and still is she is also a SURVIVOR!!
When you reach the end you will want to react just like Joshua and punch a wall because the story leaves us in a Oh shit, damnit cliffhanger!!! But it was worth it, awesome job to Author Elaine May, definitely would recommend this book to a certain age group of course no kiddo's :) I know have a case of sadness why because I have to wait until Joshua and Isla's next book..
I received a copy by the author for a honest review.
February 15, 2015
** Provided on behalf of the author for an honest review **
Meet Isla Holmes.
The girl who lost everyone she loved in an incident that was made to look like she died also at the age of 12.
Once Isla turned 18 she was brought back and her world as she knew it was never going to be the same again, all thanks to the hands of her Uncle John and cousin Jack.
Isla has been though hell and back, kept locked in a basement for years abused and beaten and told she was worth nothing.
She was told lie after lie. She would never find out the truth.
Given just a touch of freedom Isla ran into the love her life……Joshua.
Isla and Joshua grew up together destined to be together, some would say but “Joshie” believed Isla was dead.
Can this be right?
Was the love of Joshies life alive?
So many questions……
Where did she go?
What had happened to her??
Isla told Joshua everything that had happened and they vowed to make things right.
Can they get the truth out about her uncle and cousin’s secret business dealings?
Will they get Joshies grandfathers business back on track?
Will they be able to live a happy ever after?
We found this book a hard read with the things that happened, It gives you a wide range of emotions that come with reading it.
A definite 4 star read.
Meet Isla Holmes.
The girl who lost everyone she loved in an incident that was made to look like she died also at the age of 12.
Once Isla turned 18 she was brought back and her world as she knew it was never going to be the same again, all thanks to the hands of her Uncle John and cousin Jack.
Isla has been though hell and back, kept locked in a basement for years abused and beaten and told she was worth nothing.
She was told lie after lie. She would never find out the truth.
Given just a touch of freedom Isla ran into the love her life……Joshua.
Isla and Joshua grew up together destined to be together, some would say but “Joshie” believed Isla was dead.
Can this be right?
Was the love of Joshies life alive?
So many questions……
Where did she go?
What had happened to her??
Isla told Joshua everything that had happened and they vowed to make things right.
Can they get the truth out about her uncle and cousin’s secret business dealings?
Will they get Joshies grandfathers business back on track?
Will they be able to live a happy ever after?
We found this book a hard read with the things that happened, It gives you a wide range of emotions that come with reading it.
A definite 4 star read.
June 28, 2015
The book is about a family who have been destroyed. They have been conned by their own and many of the family members have been ‘removed’ from the picture. They are left with one uncle and son who are doing some dodgy dealing while running the family business and have a play thing, their own flesh and blood.
Isla is the main character towards the beginning of the book but Joshua features a lot later on. Isla is so strong and has been through so much, I cant believe she gets out of bed in the morning. Joshua is her knight in shining armour and although it takes him a while to realise it, he knows he has found the love of his life. Joshua appears back from a few years travelling with the business to find a new member of staff in the office, she captures him from the second she lays eyes on him and he is sure he has seen her before, but surely it cant be who he thinks, she is dead…
The book is very dramatic and draws you in from the go, you want to investigate with them and help them find the answers they need. Mary is absolutely fantastic, she knows something is going on and is a great support to both Joshua and Isla helping them find the information they need.
The end of the book is a great cliff hanger, I couldn’t wait to start the next one!
Isla is the main character towards the beginning of the book but Joshua features a lot later on. Isla is so strong and has been through so much, I cant believe she gets out of bed in the morning. Joshua is her knight in shining armour and although it takes him a while to realise it, he knows he has found the love of his life. Joshua appears back from a few years travelling with the business to find a new member of staff in the office, she captures him from the second she lays eyes on him and he is sure he has seen her before, but surely it cant be who he thinks, she is dead…
The book is very dramatic and draws you in from the go, you want to investigate with them and help them find the answers they need. Mary is absolutely fantastic, she knows something is going on and is a great support to both Joshua and Isla helping them find the information they need.
The end of the book is a great cliff hanger, I couldn’t wait to start the next one!
October 19, 2014
I am going to do my review a little different for this one by listing everything I loved about this and the few things that could use some work.
The pros are that this is a great story. The plot is very interesting and intriguing. The ending left me wanting to know what was going to happen to Josh and Isla. I wanted vengeance for the pain that Isla had endured.
The cons, which are few, are that the story was choppy. I liked Isla but she was hard to relate to. I have issues with stories that have the woman raped and tortured but then the right guy comes and they are fine to have sex. Not just in this story, it is happening all the time. When you are sexually assaulted, once or repeatedly, you are not going to have sex with someone within 2 weeks of getting together! You are not going to want to be touched at all, if ever, soul mate or not. Lastly these characters were a little slow thinking. I do not want to say they are dumb but naive, maybe?
I did like the premise for the story. I think this author has great potential. I am looking forward to watching her grow with her writing, and I will be following her along the way.
The pros are that this is a great story. The plot is very interesting and intriguing. The ending left me wanting to know what was going to happen to Josh and Isla. I wanted vengeance for the pain that Isla had endured.
The cons, which are few, are that the story was choppy. I liked Isla but she was hard to relate to. I have issues with stories that have the woman raped and tortured but then the right guy comes and they are fine to have sex. Not just in this story, it is happening all the time. When you are sexually assaulted, once or repeatedly, you are not going to have sex with someone within 2 weeks of getting together! You are not going to want to be touched at all, if ever, soul mate or not. Lastly these characters were a little slow thinking. I do not want to say they are dumb but naive, maybe?
I did like the premise for the story. I think this author has great potential. I am looking forward to watching her grow with her writing, and I will be following her along the way.
December 17, 2014
I have to say that I enjoyed this book, especially after the first couple of chapters. It has a dark subject manner and a wee bit of a mystery.
It's a fast paced read, I finished it in one night, (which is normal for me, if I like it, I can't put it down.)
The author starts out explaining the back story then moves forward into the present time. The book touches on taboo subjects and what greed can do to a person.What lengths they will go to, to secure their empire.
I felt pulled into the book about half way through. There was no way I was going to put it down then.
The ending is a cliff hanger. It just makes you want to buy her next book to read the ending.
It's a very fast paced book. All the parts that I would have skimmed over in an average novel, (without reading) were not in the book. Each sentence had a meaning and a reason, there was no "fluff.".
I wavered between a 4 and 5 and decided on a 5 after much thought. I did love it and I will be reading her next book and that's why I chose the 5 star!
It's a fast paced read, I finished it in one night, (which is normal for me, if I like it, I can't put it down.)
The author starts out explaining the back story then moves forward into the present time. The book touches on taboo subjects and what greed can do to a person.What lengths they will go to, to secure their empire.
I felt pulled into the book about half way through. There was no way I was going to put it down then.
The ending is a cliff hanger. It just makes you want to buy her next book to read the ending.
It's a very fast paced book. All the parts that I would have skimmed over in an average novel, (without reading) were not in the book. Each sentence had a meaning and a reason, there was no "fluff.".
I wavered between a 4 and 5 and decided on a 5 after much thought. I did love it and I will be reading her next book and that's why I chose the 5 star!
March 18, 2015
*I received an ecopy in exchange for an honest review*
This was a quick read, A dark romance that contains one tragic event after another, I'm thankful that there is not to much description of the torture that Isla has endured at he hands of her 'Family' yes we get reference to it but its mostly insinuated with no graphic details..
I enjoyed the storyline and plot, Joshie and Isla were destined to be together and he didn't give up looking for her, sigh..
I did feel that there was many questions not answered! lots of how's and why's..... Oh an we have a cliffhanger.... that being said I'm now invested in the story and look forward to reading more about Josh and Isla. Reaching for the next instalment.
If you enjoy dark romance then I would recommend giving Lies and Truth a read..
reaching for...Pain and Truth Book #2
This was a quick read, A dark romance that contains one tragic event after another, I'm thankful that there is not to much description of the torture that Isla has endured at he hands of her 'Family' yes we get reference to it but its mostly insinuated with no graphic details..
I enjoyed the storyline and plot, Joshie and Isla were destined to be together and he didn't give up looking for her, sigh..
I did feel that there was many questions not answered! lots of how's and why's..... Oh an we have a cliffhanger.... that being said I'm now invested in the story and look forward to reading more about Josh and Isla. Reaching for the next instalment.
If you enjoy dark romance then I would recommend giving Lies and Truth a read..
reaching for...Pain and Truth Book #2
May 7, 2015
Lies and Truth was and incredibly emotional book that tackles some very big issues and takes the reader through every range of emotion from anger to hurt, happiness, sadness everything you can think of. Elaine May does a fantastic job of building the relationship between the characters and the reader the connections that are created are deeply rooted so that you feel everything thing that Isla is going through as the story progresses. This story is very emotional so no matter how strong of a person you are it will bring tears to your eyes but the message of hope and love that is conveyed by the author is clear. This was a great book to read if you have not had the opportunity to read it don't miss your chance it really was a captivating story.
February 16, 2015
Lies and Truth By Elaine May
3 Stars
reviewed by Callie summers
reviewed for Two ordinary girls and their books
Fate should never be tested....
Joshua and Isla are great examples of that. The road Isla has to travel to get to hers is not for the faint of heart. Lies, deceit, and good old family drama keeps you on your toes and turning the pages.
In my opinion, I am not a fan of the writing style, but the suspense made up for it.
I love that the author is giving some of her proceeded to a charity that is close to my heart as well. So help a good cause, and take a look you won't be disappointed.
3 Stars
reviewed by Callie summers
reviewed for Two ordinary girls and their books
Fate should never be tested....
Joshua and Isla are great examples of that. The road Isla has to travel to get to hers is not for the faint of heart. Lies, deceit, and good old family drama keeps you on your toes and turning the pages.
In my opinion, I am not a fan of the writing style, but the suspense made up for it.
I love that the author is giving some of her proceeded to a charity that is close to my heart as well. So help a good cause, and take a look you won't be disappointed.
April 8, 2015
***Reviewed for Sarah & Kirsty's Book Reviews***
I was hooked on this book! The content of this book is extremely dark so reader’s discretion is advised. I loved Isla; she went through so much and came out the other side after showing so much strength and bravery. I loved Joshua too. He never stopped looking for Isla and the need he had inside himself to protect her from her captives was beyond heroic. This was a fantastic novel filled with suspense and hope. I am gutted at the cliff hanger and the first chapter reveal of the next book as it seems like more heartache. A wonderful read and in my opinion, dark erotica at its best. 5 stars!
I was hooked on this book! The content of this book is extremely dark so reader’s discretion is advised. I loved Isla; she went through so much and came out the other side after showing so much strength and bravery. I loved Joshua too. He never stopped looking for Isla and the need he had inside himself to protect her from her captives was beyond heroic. This was a fantastic novel filled with suspense and hope. I am gutted at the cliff hanger and the first chapter reveal of the next book as it seems like more heartache. A wonderful read and in my opinion, dark erotica at its best. 5 stars!
March 23, 2015
This book twisted and turned in ways I couldn't imagine. I was expecting one thing and got another keeping me glued to the pages after promising to put it away after a night's sleep. I finished this book within a few hours because I had to find out where Elaine took the characters I fell in love with. I will be reading book two immediately and with worry because I don't know how much more I can endure for sweet Isla, but I know Joshua will be right there with her.
Great book with appropriately loveable and hateable characters.
Great book with appropriately loveable and hateable characters.
August 5, 2016
I have had this book on my kindle for over a year but it wasn't until I won a copy from the author that I realised. I had read 2 chapters then stopped, not sure why b/c I just read it & wow the anger I felt towards the 2 creeps in this book was beyond anything I have felt in a long time in a book, I wanted to reach into my kindle & smash their faces in.... Rosa is a great character but I felt it all fell into place too quickly & not quite sure why she was receiving the documents in the first place & Joshua I'm hoping is gonna get revenge in book 2 for what was done to his Isla!
April 1, 2015
Omgggggg. Just finished reading this book and I am blown away. I love to read books like this. I can't believe she went through all those things. And then at the ending had me fighting tears. Omg. Those damn bastards. I hope they get a piece of their own medicine. And then when you think all of what she went through now she has to go through cancer. Ugh. The book was really really good. I enjoyed it to the full. Can't wait to read the second book.
November 30, 2014
The perfect childhood. One Tragic night and everything changes. Welcome to Isla nightmare. Isla is a strong young lady and she endures the most horrible thing that can happen to a young girl and to make matters worse it is by people that should protector with their lives. The only thing she has to hold onto is the memories of a young boy that she know is her Soul mate.
August 20, 2014
I feel very honoured to have read Elaine May's book before release and enjoyed the story of the two main characters and their love and search for each other. I look forward to finding out what happens to them next. Well done on your debut novel Elaine May!
November 10, 2014
this book had a powerful storyline I felt very attached to the main characters and I found it difficult to put it down. overall it was the best book I've read in a long time keep writing Elaine may
December 15, 2014
I liked this book. I felt bad for Isla during the entire thing even though I felt like she could have helped herself. The book kind of just ends in the middle of a scene, though, and I don't really like that. I wanted answers as badly as Joshua did and now I have to wait for them.
December 27, 2014
This was such a gripping story. And I have to be honest, I would have been in tears, had I not been in such shock of the things that happened to Isla. Joshua is the perfect hero for her and I look forward to reading more of their story.
December 3, 2016
Really pulls you in and you hope for aHEA for these characters. No cheating by H or h. There is years of separation and when H finds her Isla again is pretending to be a girl named Rosa. Strong subject matter.
November 8, 2014
review to follow
April 14, 2018
I was over the top with this 2 book set. Loved the characters, the twist the bangs and yes they are bangs. This author brings us a twisted tale of lies and deceit, greed, sibling rivalry and just plain mean/cruel/inexcusable actions. This set runs the gambit of emotions as the story unravels we see the torture and fear created by two. We see their total disregard for family and friends and any touch of humanity. But for Isla life will change in the flash of an eye and when it all come down she will find her peace right where she belongs.
I love this author's style. She gives us characters we love and ones we want to castrate. She gives us one hell of a story and throws in twist and turns or added bangs tat keep her stories from being far from ordinary. Her characters are passionate without derailing the story. Great read and yes I will be going on to the next book of the series.
I love this author's style. She gives us characters we love and ones we want to castrate. She gives us one hell of a story and throws in twist and turns or added bangs tat keep her stories from being far from ordinary. Her characters are passionate without derailing the story. Great read and yes I will be going on to the next book of the series.
December 5, 2014
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review!
The Book:
Lies and Truth
Author:
Elaine May
Published:
August 4, 2014; 149 pages
The Rating:
*** (3 Stars)
Steam Factor:
* (1 Star)
Genre:
Dark Romance
***This book is intended for readers 18+. There is explicit sexual content as well as explicit language throughout.
The Blurb:
When Isla Holmes life as a child is turned upside down and she is ripped away from her soul mate she is forced to live a life with evil.
When Isla and her soul mate cross paths will they find a happy ever after or will evil intervene?
The Review:
This book was a bit of a mind bender. The story takes place over the course of Isla's lifetime. Depicting her childhood, all the way into adulthood, where we find her now. This is a dark romance, and the subject matter is offensive, so please be warned when reading.
Isla lives a life of hell. Forced into a world where she does not belong, ripped from all the things and people that she used to love, she has to live life locked away from anything good. Things happened in her life that were out of her control, and as such, she believes that she must pay for the sins of her father. Trapped in the clutches of an evil man, she is required to submit to his every demand. No matter how dark and twisted they are. Living day to day not knowing how she will survive this pain and suffering, she longs for the man of her dreams. The boy from her childhood who always knew how to soothe her, and who she always imagined marrying and starting a family with. Ripped from that life, she knows that it can only be a dream. Happiness is not in the cards for her. Until fate provides a little ray of sunshine into her dark existence.
Living life as an executive in the family business, Joshua Bryant returns home to the company with a few ulterior motives. Seeking to find out what is going on with the business he was supposed to be running, and finding out what really happened to his grandfather, Josh begins a search that will uncover secrets so dark he could have never imagined. Struggling with comprehending the meaning of these secrets, he becomes taken with a waif of a woman working for his cousin. She calls herself Rosa, but there is something familiar about her. Some kind of connection he has only felt with one other person-his beloved Isla. As he tries to get closer to Rosa, he begins to wonder what kind of secrets she may be hiding. His world is rocked when the truth comes to life.
This story brings to life some very dark and twisted things. Sexual abuse, slavery, torture...it's not for the faint of heart. The suffering that Isla endures at the hands of people she once cared about is unimaginable. I applaud the author for being brave enough to delve into this sort of topic. It takes guts to write such horrors. I think that the author did a good job of providing an air of action and mystery to this story line as well. It was a quick and easy (not to stomach) read for me.
There were some things that I didn't like about this story. Namely that it was at times inconsistent. It was also a little confusing in the beginning. The story needs some re-editing, and as I am big on proper editing, this does affect my rating. I also did not know that this was going to be part of a series while I was reading it, so when it came to the end and their was a cliffhanger, I was disappointed. The author left a note stating that she wanted to see what the reader's thought were before saying anything more about the couple in the planned second book. This is a little contradictory to me. If it is already planned, then I feel that the story line should already be pretty solid; however, if you are waiting to hear what the readers think first, then it sounds like the author's story may be swayed by what they say. I could be presuming things here, but that is the impression that I got. I really felt like the story could have ended here, and that it doesn't need to be drawn out into a series.
Overall, an interesting story. This really got the readers thinking about some horrible issues. I do think that the characters need more work. I didn't necessarily feel a real connection to them, and I feel that there is more work to be done on this story in general. As such, I don't think I can recommend it in it's current form.
Book Two, Pain and Truth, is supposed to release this month but I don't have an exact date yet. According to the author, partial proceeds from this book and its sequel will be donated to two UK Charities that deal with brain tumors and its research; although I do not have the names of these charities as they were not provided.
The Book:
Lies and Truth
Author:
Elaine May
Published:
August 4, 2014; 149 pages
The Rating:
*** (3 Stars)
Steam Factor:
* (1 Star)
Genre:
Dark Romance
***This book is intended for readers 18+. There is explicit sexual content as well as explicit language throughout.
The Blurb:
When Isla Holmes life as a child is turned upside down and she is ripped away from her soul mate she is forced to live a life with evil.
When Isla and her soul mate cross paths will they find a happy ever after or will evil intervene?
The Review:
This book was a bit of a mind bender. The story takes place over the course of Isla's lifetime. Depicting her childhood, all the way into adulthood, where we find her now. This is a dark romance, and the subject matter is offensive, so please be warned when reading.
Isla lives a life of hell. Forced into a world where she does not belong, ripped from all the things and people that she used to love, she has to live life locked away from anything good. Things happened in her life that were out of her control, and as such, she believes that she must pay for the sins of her father. Trapped in the clutches of an evil man, she is required to submit to his every demand. No matter how dark and twisted they are. Living day to day not knowing how she will survive this pain and suffering, she longs for the man of her dreams. The boy from her childhood who always knew how to soothe her, and who she always imagined marrying and starting a family with. Ripped from that life, she knows that it can only be a dream. Happiness is not in the cards for her. Until fate provides a little ray of sunshine into her dark existence.
Living life as an executive in the family business, Joshua Bryant returns home to the company with a few ulterior motives. Seeking to find out what is going on with the business he was supposed to be running, and finding out what really happened to his grandfather, Josh begins a search that will uncover secrets so dark he could have never imagined. Struggling with comprehending the meaning of these secrets, he becomes taken with a waif of a woman working for his cousin. She calls herself Rosa, but there is something familiar about her. Some kind of connection he has only felt with one other person-his beloved Isla. As he tries to get closer to Rosa, he begins to wonder what kind of secrets she may be hiding. His world is rocked when the truth comes to life.
This story brings to life some very dark and twisted things. Sexual abuse, slavery, torture...it's not for the faint of heart. The suffering that Isla endures at the hands of people she once cared about is unimaginable. I applaud the author for being brave enough to delve into this sort of topic. It takes guts to write such horrors. I think that the author did a good job of providing an air of action and mystery to this story line as well. It was a quick and easy (not to stomach) read for me.
There were some things that I didn't like about this story. Namely that it was at times inconsistent. It was also a little confusing in the beginning. The story needs some re-editing, and as I am big on proper editing, this does affect my rating. I also did not know that this was going to be part of a series while I was reading it, so when it came to the end and their was a cliffhanger, I was disappointed. The author left a note stating that she wanted to see what the reader's thought were before saying anything more about the couple in the planned second book. This is a little contradictory to me. If it is already planned, then I feel that the story line should already be pretty solid; however, if you are waiting to hear what the readers think first, then it sounds like the author's story may be swayed by what they say. I could be presuming things here, but that is the impression that I got. I really felt like the story could have ended here, and that it doesn't need to be drawn out into a series.
Overall, an interesting story. This really got the readers thinking about some horrible issues. I do think that the characters need more work. I didn't necessarily feel a real connection to them, and I feel that there is more work to be done on this story in general. As such, I don't think I can recommend it in it's current form.
Book Two, Pain and Truth, is supposed to release this month but I don't have an exact date yet. According to the author, partial proceeds from this book and its sequel will be donated to two UK Charities that deal with brain tumors and its research; although I do not have the names of these charities as they were not provided.
December 24, 2014
This story has dark elements and a mysterious feel to it. The beginning has a series of flashbacks in a dream sequence showing the reader clues of the past and planting the seeds for what comes ahead. Also, the story goes straight into her being sexually abused. She has basically been living the life of a tortured sex slave for several years.
For me, the storyline did not really draw my interest until a 3rd of the way in. Despite her treatment, Isla has been brainwashed by the ones controlling her to see things a certain way. These things start to unravel. Clues are continuously coming to surface.
I don't know if it was me or the story, but I did not feel as connected to Isla's character as I would like to have. I also felt the love interest was missing something. The biggest emotional connection I had was how much I hated the bad guys—A Lot. I do think the story got steadily better as it went along. This isn't a single so all the answers haven't been given yet. The mystery part is excellent because I still cannot understand what the play the bad guys are trying to run is.
***Copy given in exchange for an honest review***
FULL REVIEW CAN BE FOUND AT http://fangirlmomentsandmytwocents.bl...
For me, the storyline did not really draw my interest until a 3rd of the way in. Despite her treatment, Isla has been brainwashed by the ones controlling her to see things a certain way. These things start to unravel. Clues are continuously coming to surface.
I don't know if it was me or the story, but I did not feel as connected to Isla's character as I would like to have. I also felt the love interest was missing something. The biggest emotional connection I had was how much I hated the bad guys—A Lot. I do think the story got steadily better as it went along. This isn't a single so all the answers haven't been given yet. The mystery part is excellent because I still cannot understand what the play the bad guys are trying to run is.
***Copy given in exchange for an honest review***
FULL REVIEW CAN BE FOUND AT http://fangirlmomentsandmytwocents.bl...
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