What do you think?
Rate this book
Bitter Lies and Broken Goodbyes
Emily Baker lives by two Don’t get attached and NEVER fall in love.
But her boss's son is hell bent on breaking them both. Spitting into a customers coffee wasn't Emilys finest moment. So when her boss asks to speak with her, she braces for the worst - getting fired, run out of town, maybe even publicly shamed. This is Norton, after all, and Lord knows the rumour mill works fast in this town. However, she did not expect him to offer her a promotion with triple pay.
With one major catch: She has to work alongside Noah Ashmore. Infuriatingly cocky, irritatingly handsome and her boss's son. The problem? He's done just about anything to get under her skin.
And as tensions rise and sparks fly, letting her guard down might cost her more than her new job... it could cost her the new life she's only just begun to trust.
But her boss's son is hell bent on breaking them both. Spitting into a customers coffee wasn't Emilys finest moment. So when her boss asks to speak with her, she braces for the worst - getting fired, run out of town, maybe even publicly shamed. This is Norton, after all, and Lord knows the rumour mill works fast in this town. However, she did not expect him to offer her a promotion with triple pay.
With one major catch: She has to work alongside Noah Ashmore. Infuriatingly cocky, irritatingly handsome and her boss's son. The problem? He's done just about anything to get under her skin.
And as tensions rise and sparks fly, letting her guard down might cost her more than her new job... it could cost her the new life she's only just begun to trust.
- GenresRomance
323 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 12, 2025
7 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
July 24, 2025
I was sent a copy of this book to ARC read! It was my first ARC and I can’t lie I was so excited to receive this but also anxious!!
I haven’t read much romance books, and I was a bit apprehensive to read this as I was worried I wouldn’t enjoy. But overall this book was just perfect! It’s hard to write a review without giving away the main plot line but if you love a good romance then I definitely recommend! The plot is amazing and I did not expect it all which made me not want to put the book down at all!
The characters are perfect! I love the whole she’s grumpy and he’s the sunshine in this book 💓 Also love how this book was not a slow burn, I couldn’t put the book down at all!!!! And the best part of it all this is only the first book of the series!!!
So thank you so much Chloe for letting me read this book before it is released! I really enjoyed it and I can’t wait to see what else you write 💓
I haven’t read much romance books, and I was a bit apprehensive to read this as I was worried I wouldn’t enjoy. But overall this book was just perfect! It’s hard to write a review without giving away the main plot line but if you love a good romance then I definitely recommend! The plot is amazing and I did not expect it all which made me not want to put the book down at all!
The characters are perfect! I love the whole she’s grumpy and he’s the sunshine in this book 💓 Also love how this book was not a slow burn, I couldn’t put the book down at all!!!! And the best part of it all this is only the first book of the series!!!
So thank you so much Chloe for letting me read this book before it is released! I really enjoyed it and I can’t wait to see what else you write 💓
July 27, 2025
I was kindly sent the ARC for this book, so first of all, I'd like to thank the author. However, my review is 100% genuine.
Did the FMC spit in a customer's coffee in the first chapter?
Yes.
Did he deserve it?
Also, yes.
Do I wanna be like her?
Kinda, yes.
Did I absolutely adore this book?
You know the answer by now.
Emily and Noah's story was amazing, and the only fault I can find in this book is that it wasn't longer because I need more time with this couple. I loved the black cat gf x golden retriever bf dynamic they had going on and how strong and independent she was and how attentive and protective he was. He understood that she could do everything herself, but he wanted to do it for her anyway to show her she could rely on someone. I also loved his bossy side as well ;)
But it is not just the main couple I was interested in but all the side characters as well. I can't wait to read their books and learn all about their past since I've been so intrigued about them. The author really knows how to capture your attention with little breadcrumbs here and there sprinkled within the book that just keeps you wanting more.
I have to admit that I kind of figured out what happened in Emily's past, but at the same time, it was so much more than I thought it was. It was so heartbreaking and frankly deeply disturbing 💔
Another thing I loved was the mention of my country, Greece, and some particular scenes that happened there. The author describes the vibes of the Greek island perfectly and, at the same time, manages to convey the warmth of the people.
It was all in all an amazing book, and I 100% recommend if you like romance books or even some romance in your stories.
Did the FMC spit in a customer's coffee in the first chapter?
Yes.
Did he deserve it?
Also, yes.
Do I wanna be like her?
Kinda, yes.
Did I absolutely adore this book?
You know the answer by now.
Emily and Noah's story was amazing, and the only fault I can find in this book is that it wasn't longer because I need more time with this couple. I loved the black cat gf x golden retriever bf dynamic they had going on and how strong and independent she was and how attentive and protective he was. He understood that she could do everything herself, but he wanted to do it for her anyway to show her she could rely on someone. I also loved his bossy side as well ;)
But it is not just the main couple I was interested in but all the side characters as well. I can't wait to read their books and learn all about their past since I've been so intrigued about them. The author really knows how to capture your attention with little breadcrumbs here and there sprinkled within the book that just keeps you wanting more.
I have to admit that I kind of figured out what happened in Emily's past, but at the same time, it was so much more than I thought it was. It was so heartbreaking and frankly deeply disturbing 💔
Another thing I loved was the mention of my country, Greece, and some particular scenes that happened there. The author describes the vibes of the Greek island perfectly and, at the same time, manages to convey the warmth of the people.
It was all in all an amazing book, and I 100% recommend if you like romance books or even some romance in your stories.
July 23, 2025
well, I very kindly recieved the ARC of this book and I was nervous to read a new book incase I did not like it but wow... I did NOT expect the plot of this book, the suspense, the thriller edge, the NEED to know more, the spice & the romance😗🤌, I absolutely ate it up, devoured it and I want more. please please tell me there will be a book 2 about the other characters in the future because I NEED to know more about their stories🙏🏻
July 29, 2025
firstly, tysm chloe for the ARC copy of this book. i was so excited to receive it!!
3.5 ⭐️ my rating dropped half a star from a 4 star rating as i felt the book would have benefitted from being slightly longer. that being said, i really enjoyed this!! i liked how strong and independent emily was whilst also being vulnerable enough to let someone in. noah ashmore, you ate sir🫡 he knew what he wanted and nothing was going to stand in his way.
i liked how it wasn’t just your typical romance book and had a bit of ‘mystery’ to it. i wasn’t sure what the big secret from the past would be but i liked seeing it unfold.
would defo recommend this book!
3.5 ⭐️ my rating dropped half a star from a 4 star rating as i felt the book would have benefitted from being slightly longer. that being said, i really enjoyed this!! i liked how strong and independent emily was whilst also being vulnerable enough to let someone in. noah ashmore, you ate sir🫡 he knew what he wanted and nothing was going to stand in his way.
i liked how it wasn’t just your typical romance book and had a bit of ‘mystery’ to it. i wasn’t sure what the big secret from the past would be but i liked seeing it unfold.
would defo recommend this book!
July 26, 2025
Mr Noah Ashmore, take a bow.
The flirty banter, the golden retriever rich boy and the fiercely independent woman made for such a sweet romance. The instant connection between these two was wholesome and their relationship got better by the chapter. I was swooning so hard over the Ashmore brothers and I’m dying to know more about their lives and loves in more books.
The drama was well paced and the story kept me hooked, wanting to know what was going to happen and how it was going to be handled. My only wish would be to delve deeper into her back story and build up more tension with a more detailed POV of her experience, but we got enough to keep me invested in the story.
Overall, a great read and I’m so happy to have received an ARC and be given the opportunity to dive into this romance a few weeks early!
The flirty banter, the golden retriever rich boy and the fiercely independent woman made for such a sweet romance. The instant connection between these two was wholesome and their relationship got better by the chapter. I was swooning so hard over the Ashmore brothers and I’m dying to know more about their lives and loves in more books.
The drama was well paced and the story kept me hooked, wanting to know what was going to happen and how it was going to be handled. My only wish would be to delve deeper into her back story and build up more tension with a more detailed POV of her experience, but we got enough to keep me invested in the story.
Overall, a great read and I’m so happy to have received an ARC and be given the opportunity to dive into this romance a few weeks early!
July 25, 2025
I got an ARC of this book and I loved it! Love the characters and their dynamics. Some twist and turns I didn’t expect, when I thought I had I figured out it wasn’t right.
Loved the atmosphere, the English countryside vibe is to die for🥰 as a Norwegian who grow up visiting England this really hit the spot.
I laughed out loud, cried, giggled of screamed. I really need to find my self a Noah🥵🤩
As a formula 1 fan as well I really appreciate the details and mentioning of my favourite sport!
Really liked this book and all ready looking forwards to book two and the rest of the Norton universe 🤩
Loved the atmosphere, the English countryside vibe is to die for🥰 as a Norwegian who grow up visiting England this really hit the spot.
I laughed out loud, cried, giggled of screamed. I really need to find my self a Noah🥵🤩
As a formula 1 fan as well I really appreciate the details and mentioning of my favourite sport!
Really liked this book and all ready looking forwards to book two and the rest of the Norton universe 🤩
August 3, 2025
First off, a big thank you to the author for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book—it was an absolute privilege. I really enjoyed the setting and storyline, and I quickly found myself invested in the characters. Even the side characters had depth, and I found myself wanting to learn more about them.
Both the FMC and MMC have their secrets, and the way the story slowly revealed them was well done. That said, I do think some elements could have been developed a bit further—but with only 260 pages, things had to move along quickly and concisely.
I especially appreciated the dual POV—it added richness and helped flesh out the story beautifully. I'm really hoping this turns into a series because there’s so much potential with the side characters and family members.
Oh! And before I forget—there’s definitely some sexual tension in this book. A lot of spice. It’s steamy, but well-placed and fits the story perfectly. 😳🫣
Both the FMC and MMC have their secrets, and the way the story slowly revealed them was well done. That said, I do think some elements could have been developed a bit further—but with only 260 pages, things had to move along quickly and concisely.
I especially appreciated the dual POV—it added richness and helped flesh out the story beautifully. I'm really hoping this turns into a series because there’s so much potential with the side characters and family members.
Oh! And before I forget—there’s definitely some sexual tension in this book. A lot of spice. It’s steamy, but well-placed and fits the story perfectly. 😳🫣
July 23, 2025
I was lucky to receive an ARC copy of Bitter lies and broken goodbyes. Once I started it I couldn't put it down, finished within 24 hours. Great plot, both main and side characters had really interesting stories, would definitely like to read more about the other Ashmore siblings and their love stories too as the snippets ge got throughout the book hint at how interesting their stories are.
August 2, 2025
OMG! I was sent an ARC for this book, so firstly thank you to the author for choosing me to be part of the team for that!
This read was my fastest read this year, 24 hours from start to finish! I just couldn’t put it down, and had to force myself to so I could get some sleep & do normal daily things.
I absolutely adore Emily! She is such a queen, kinda envy her to be honest. Noah might just be my new book boyfriend!
WOW WOW WOW!
The plot is amazing, the story is so easy to follow, the characters are so loveable. This is a must. One of favourite reads of 2025 and it will definitely be added to my pile of “would read again” books!
This read was my fastest read this year, 24 hours from start to finish! I just couldn’t put it down, and had to force myself to so I could get some sleep & do normal daily things.
I absolutely adore Emily! She is such a queen, kinda envy her to be honest. Noah might just be my new book boyfriend!
WOW WOW WOW!
The plot is amazing, the story is so easy to follow, the characters are so loveable. This is a must. One of favourite reads of 2025 and it will definitely be added to my pile of “would read again” books!
August 12, 2025
I just finished my ARC of Bitter Lies and Broken Goodbyes by Chloe M Glinski, and wow… this book gave me everything!! 😋
We’ve got a teasing and drop dead gorgeous MMC who falls first — and falls hard. The FMC? Mysterious. Guarded. She’s working for his family business, and from the second they meet, the tension is off the charts, eeekkk!!! 😛
The slow burn had me kicking my feet, but then… oh BTW!! it gets spicy. 🌶️ deliciously spicy 🫣 The chemistry? Immaculate. The MMC? Total knight-in-shining-armour energy — protective, obsessed in the best way, and completely gone for her🫶🏽🫶🏽
But there’s a twist (we all LOVE a twist) she’s hiding a huge secret. When it finally comes out? My jaw dropped!!! 😩👌🏼 And instead of running, he chooses her. Every single time. Amen 🧎🏻♀️🧎🏻♀️
Add to your TBR!! Run!! Do it !! xx
We’ve got a teasing and drop dead gorgeous MMC who falls first — and falls hard. The FMC? Mysterious. Guarded. She’s working for his family business, and from the second they meet, the tension is off the charts, eeekkk!!! 😛
The slow burn had me kicking my feet, but then… oh BTW!! it gets spicy. 🌶️ deliciously spicy 🫣 The chemistry? Immaculate. The MMC? Total knight-in-shining-armour energy — protective, obsessed in the best way, and completely gone for her🫶🏽🫶🏽
But there’s a twist (we all LOVE a twist) she’s hiding a huge secret. When it finally comes out? My jaw dropped!!! 😩👌🏼 And instead of running, he chooses her. Every single time. Amen 🧎🏻♀️🧎🏻♀️
Add to your TBR!! Run!! Do it !! xx
July 30, 2025
I received an ARC of Bitter Lies & Broken Goodbyes and let me just say… I was not ready for the emotional rollercoaster this book put me through
This story had me hooked from the first page. Secrets, betrayal, tension, and chemistry that leaps off the page — it was giving elite slow-burn energy with a twist of heartbreak and healing. The writing? Absolutely stunning. The characters? Complex, raw, and unforgettable.
“Rules are broken, lines are crossed…” and my heart? Shattered in the best way possible.
This book owns me now.
Loved it so much!
Thank you for letting me read this book
This story had me hooked from the first page. Secrets, betrayal, tension, and chemistry that leaps off the page — it was giving elite slow-burn energy with a twist of heartbreak and healing. The writing? Absolutely stunning. The characters? Complex, raw, and unforgettable.
“Rules are broken, lines are crossed…” and my heart? Shattered in the best way possible.
This book owns me now.
Loved it so much!
Thank you for letting me read this book
August 12, 2025
4.5 🌟
I would like to start by saying thank you to Chloe for kindly sending me an arc copy to read and review before the publication day!!
I ate this book up!! I read it across two days but it was probably only 3 sittings across those days and if I didn’t have the inconvenience of work I would have finished it that first day!
I loved the characters, I’m not going to spoil anything by using names but the development between the characters was just a beautiful storyline to read, I had tears in my eyes during parts and I was tense during others and also laughing along, I felt like I was living there with them!!
If you love a romance, with some darker themes, not loads of spicy scenes but when they were there they were there🥵😂 then I highly recommend this as your next read!!
I would like to start by saying thank you to Chloe for kindly sending me an arc copy to read and review before the publication day!!
I ate this book up!! I read it across two days but it was probably only 3 sittings across those days and if I didn’t have the inconvenience of work I would have finished it that first day!
I loved the characters, I’m not going to spoil anything by using names but the development between the characters was just a beautiful storyline to read, I had tears in my eyes during parts and I was tense during others and also laughing along, I felt like I was living there with them!!
If you love a romance, with some darker themes, not loads of spicy scenes but when they were there they were there🥵😂 then I highly recommend this as your next read!!
July 22, 2025
Thank you to the author for sending an ARC!
This book has a deeply emotional and gripping story that explores betrayal, hidden truths, and the grey space between love and destruction. From the first page, the writing pulls you in with its raw vulnerability and haunting atmosphere.
The characters are flawed, real, and painfully human — making their journeys all the more powerful. With secrets refusing to stay buried and rules constantly being broken, the tension never lets up. Glinski’s prose is lyrical yet sharp, balancing emotional depth with dark intrigue.
If you enjoy slow-burning angst, morally complex characters, and stories that stay with you long after the final page, this book is a must-read.
This book has a deeply emotional and gripping story that explores betrayal, hidden truths, and the grey space between love and destruction. From the first page, the writing pulls you in with its raw vulnerability and haunting atmosphere.
The characters are flawed, real, and painfully human — making their journeys all the more powerful. With secrets refusing to stay buried and rules constantly being broken, the tension never lets up. Glinski’s prose is lyrical yet sharp, balancing emotional depth with dark intrigue.
If you enjoy slow-burning angst, morally complex characters, and stories that stay with you long after the final page, this book is a must-read.
August 2, 2025
I received this book as an ARC, my first ARC-read ever, and it definitely didn't disappoint at all. I ate this one up!!! The writingstyle, the romance, the thrill, the plot, the characters, the spice, everything!! I need more books. I need to know Ellie her story, and Lily and Archie! Gosh I loved it
August 13, 2025
This book was everything I wished for and more. Such an amazing small town romance with amazing plot twists. I was buried in this book until I finished it! I just hope there will be another book as I couldn’t get enough of their relationship!
September 4, 2025
I couldn’t wait to read this book! The story had me wondering what the secret could be that Emily was hiding and I was left gripped from start to finish. It was wholesome but spicy at the same time! 10/10
August 2, 2025
Really like this book. Romance, and some suspense. Love how the characters changed and opened up. The setting was great. Loved the banter and just the story overall was great.
September 6, 2025
I truly enjoyed this and cant wait to read anymore books this authority brings out
September 13, 2025
LOVEEEEEEEEEEDD THIS BOOK
December 13, 2025
loved this story, devouring it in 24 hours. Noah is my new favorite MMC. Excited for Book 2
July 21, 2025
I received an ARC copy of Bitter Lies and Broken Goodbyes, and I really liked it. I had a bit of trouble at first getting into the characters. I think it’s an enemies to lovers story but they weren’t enemies for very long, so I didn’t get that feel. But after about 5 chapters I was hooked and cared about the main characters. There are compelling back stories and real suspense. It’s not a long book so I ended up finishing it in a day. I can see this being a series with the intro of some other characters that I imagine will have their own book – I love an interconnected standalone so I will be keeping my eyes peeled for those.
July 23, 2025
This book! I loved the fact I never knew what was gonna happen next! This isn’t one of those overly predictable romances! Genuinely felt like I was on the edge of my seat for the last 50 pages! I fell hard and fast for the characters and I already feel like we can see where book 2 should take us! It made me laugh and cry and at some points want to kick my feet and giggle like a little girl again! 🥰🥰
August 11, 2025
Thankyou so much Chloe for the arc of your debut book.
4⭐️ this was so fun yet it had such a good plot I loved the mystery aspects in this book it made me want to keep reading and had me engaged.
I loved Emily and Noah and seeing how much they cared for each other.
I loved the friends Emily made along the way because she’s never had that before and seeing her feel like she belongs and that she dosnt have to run anymore. Lily and Hazel was such fun characters and I’m excited to have books on them.
Him calling her princess 😍😍
There will be a mini reading vlog on my TikTok when this comes out and I’m excited for everyone to see my reactions to some stuff that goes on in this book.
I’m so excited to see what this Author brings out next
4⭐️ this was so fun yet it had such a good plot I loved the mystery aspects in this book it made me want to keep reading and had me engaged.
I loved Emily and Noah and seeing how much they cared for each other.
I loved the friends Emily made along the way because she’s never had that before and seeing her feel like she belongs and that she dosnt have to run anymore. Lily and Hazel was such fun characters and I’m excited to have books on them.
Him calling her princess 😍😍
There will be a mini reading vlog on my TikTok when this comes out and I’m excited for everyone to see my reactions to some stuff that goes on in this book.
I’m so excited to see what this Author brings out next
July 21, 2025
I would say more like 3.5 stars! I luckily received this an ARC reader! I enjoyed the characters and the grumpy x sunshine but female grump. I think it lost marks for me because as much as I enjoyed each aspect of the story and I found it quick to read and get in to, it was almost too short and I felt could’ve added so much more just by bulking it up a bit! However, it was good and the storyline was catching and made you want to read more
July 22, 2025
OMG. This book was amazing! I loved every second of it from start to finish. Emily is an absolute queen, and Noah? He’s just incredible. I also adored all the side characters—they added so much to the story, and I honestly can’t wait for more books featuring the whole cast. The way I was on the edge of my seat for most of this book? Crazy. I was completely hooked.
July 21, 2025
This is a ARC review no spoiler. I just finished the book today. I received this morning as ARC reader. Start the book earlier this morning. I really like main characters in the book some of characters got me confused but that just me. It took me a while to get into the story but when I got there. It was good. I like the world building in the book. Interesting story and make you want to find out more about the storylines. I really enjoyed the overall experience.
July 21, 2025
Wow! I absolutely loved this book! Everyone loves a romance but I had started getting a bit bored as they were all focusing on the 🌶️ rather than a plot. This story had me flicking the pages within seconds. Its the perfect mix of romance, thriller, enemies to lovers, protective. I cannot wait for number two (hopefully to find out what had happened between Lily&Archie)🩷
July 22, 2025
Loved this book a great introduction to the royal oak estate series can't wait for the next i loved the characters and the world building .
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews