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Shadow Duet #1
Shadows Never Lie
Dominic Walker has always been a good liar.
Dominic stands where I am supposed to — at my identical twin’s side. His confidant. His right- hand. His best friend. The brother he would choose.
I’ve been cast aside, relegated to the shadows. Forced to watch as Max and Dominic get everything they want. Everything I secretly want.
But then, Dominic suddenly sees me and issues an offer I can’t refuse. A challenge, actually. One he never expects me to follow through on.
With anyone else, I wouldn’t have considered it. But I’ll be damned before I let Dominic get the better of me.
It has me sinking to my knees. Literally.
A decision that changes everything.
Dominic pulls me out of the shadows, and I never want to go back.
But it’s not the shadows I need to be afraid of.
No, it’s the path that leads somewhere far darker than I could ever have imagined. Somewhere where truth and lies become shadowed.
Shadows Never Lie is the first book in the Shadow Duet. It's a contemporary, high-angst MM romance, featuring brand new characters. The duet will end in a HEA.
Dominic stands where I am supposed to — at my identical twin’s side. His confidant. His right- hand. His best friend. The brother he would choose.
I’ve been cast aside, relegated to the shadows. Forced to watch as Max and Dominic get everything they want. Everything I secretly want.
But then, Dominic suddenly sees me and issues an offer I can’t refuse. A challenge, actually. One he never expects me to follow through on.
With anyone else, I wouldn’t have considered it. But I’ll be damned before I let Dominic get the better of me.
It has me sinking to my knees. Literally.
A decision that changes everything.
Dominic pulls me out of the shadows, and I never want to go back.
But it’s not the shadows I need to be afraid of.
No, it’s the path that leads somewhere far darker than I could ever have imagined. Somewhere where truth and lies become shadowed.
Shadows Never Lie is the first book in the Shadow Duet. It's a contemporary, high-angst MM romance, featuring brand new characters. The duet will end in a HEA.
319 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2026
103 people are currently reading
722 people want to read
About the author
Lark Taylor
34 books1,312 followersLark lives with her family in southern England. An obsessive romance fan, she loves nothing more than a Happily Ever After – especially if there’s a good plot and a hefty amount of spice along the way. When she’s not reading or writing, she can be found hiding from adult life in escape rooms, travel and the MCU. As a Bi woman with OCD, Lark is a fervent supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community and an advocate for mental health awareness and support.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
May 3, 2026
“You’re always pretending. Trying to blend in with the shadows when what you deserve is to shine under a spotlight.”
I'm pretty pleased with myself for waiting until the last possible second to read this book. I know Lark delights in making us suffer, all in the name of a great book. For those of you like me who love Lark's writing but want to limit how much she's able to hurt you, book 2 is out on May 15. To be clear, you're still gonna be hurt, but you can take away the hurt of waiting at least 😆.
Just like always, there was a scowl marring his brow. I used to think Dominic was just perpetually pissed off at the world. Now, I knew it was just his resting face. Until he saw me, that was. That was when the scowl melted, to be replaced by the most beautiful smile. One I’d only ever seen aimed in my direction.
Shadows Never Lie was a very enjoyable read, in spite of all of what I just said about being hurt. It's the good kind of hurt, where the MCs are earning their HEA. The kind of hurt that lets you know they're never going to break up because their love is so intense and strong that it verges on toxic. The Shadow Duet is about wanting someone who you know can't be yours, but you don't care. You want them anyway and you're going to yearn and pine and refuse to put your head before your heart. It is not about good communication skills (the MCs are 18 year old boys and act accordingly). I absolutely loved it, and I recommend it! You might just want to wait until May 14th to pick this one up 🤪.
Dreams didn’t come true. Dominic had taught me that. It was better to go for the safe option. I’d taken a risk with him and paid with my heart, but I wasn’t a fool. I learned from my mistakes. From now on, there’d be no dreaming. No flights of fancy. No throwing caution to the wind and seeing where it took me. Life was better when it was predictable. When you knew what your next steps were, and the results of taking them. That mindset didn’t leave any room for broken hearts.
Rating: 5 stars
Angst: 4.5/5
Steam: 3.5/5
I received an advance copy of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
I’d been cold for years. I was desperate to burn again.
May 1, 2026
"Hurt me again, Lark Taylor. I'll be here waiting. Waiting for Dom and Ryan to get their forever."
This is what I wrote right after I finished book one. I enjoyed this book so much, how it starts, the bulk of the story, and how she leaves us right there with Ryan and Dom at the bar. They're wondering what will happen next and so are we!!!
Shadows Never Lie is marketed as enemies to lovers, but I don't think so. They're teens in book one, and teens are SO DUMB. Their brains aren't fully developed. So mistakes happen, and they don't have the language to actually communicate.
All that to say, Lark puts us THROUGH IT with this one and since it's a duet, she leaves us at an understandable cliffhanger.
I am lucky enough to have read book 2 and I know how it ends. Y'all, it's a treasure.
● twin brother's best friend
● bully vibes, but not really
● angst & yearning
● family drama
● first times
● first time with a man
● second chance
● cliffhanger
More thoughts from my original review:
book one leaves us wondering how the hell is this gonna be fixed?
This is a brother's best friend romance, and this seriously comes to play because the twins have a terrible relationship.
But the potential? The soulmate potential between Ryan and Dominic is there. And the pain just oooooooozes out of this book. The situation, the location, the relationships all come into play and it makes what happens between Ryan and Dom all the more spectacular because it SHOULDN'T happen.
The entire book was great, but the last 20% took it to the next level. Knowing how and where it would end had me all up in my feels before it happened, and the three confrontations that landed near the end took me by surprise and just twisted the knife.
This is what I wrote right after I finished book one. I enjoyed this book so much, how it starts, the bulk of the story, and how she leaves us right there with Ryan and Dom at the bar. They're wondering what will happen next and so are we!!!
Shadows Never Lie is marketed as enemies to lovers, but I don't think so. They're teens in book one, and teens are SO DUMB. Their brains aren't fully developed. So mistakes happen, and they don't have the language to actually communicate.
All that to say, Lark puts us THROUGH IT with this one and since it's a duet, she leaves us at an understandable cliffhanger.
I am lucky enough to have read book 2 and I know how it ends. Y'all, it's a treasure.
● twin brother's best friend
● bully vibes, but not really
● angst & yearning
● family drama
● first times
● first time with a man
● second chance
● cliffhanger
More thoughts from my original review:
book one leaves us wondering how the hell is this gonna be fixed?
This is a brother's best friend romance, and this seriously comes to play because the twins have a terrible relationship.
But the potential? The soulmate potential between Ryan and Dominic is there. And the pain just oooooooozes out of this book. The situation, the location, the relationships all come into play and it makes what happens between Ryan and Dom all the more spectacular because it SHOULDN'T happen.
The entire book was great, but the last 20% took it to the next level. Knowing how and where it would end had me all up in my feels before it happened, and the three confrontations that landed near the end took me by surprise and just twisted the knife.
May 3, 2026
Shadows Never Lie was such a great start to this duet. I loved Dominic and Ryan together instantly. Dominic was an absolute sweetheart behind his tough exterior. I loved seeing how vulnerable he became around Ryan.
Ryan was so precious, and I hated the way his twin brother, Max, treated him. The fallout between Max, Dominic, and Ryan even though it was expected,had me feeling every moment of it.
I was so grateful I could jump straight into Shadows Never Leave, because emotionally, I don't think I could have handled the wait.
Ryan was so precious, and I hated the way his twin brother, Max, treated him. The fallout between Max, Dominic, and Ryan even though it was expected,had me feeling every moment of it.
I was so grateful I could jump straight into Shadows Never Leave, because emotionally, I don't think I could have handled the wait.
May 2, 2026
What an incredible impressive story!
Did I like Dominic? Certainly not at first. He and Max, Ryan’s twin brother, were horrible to Ryan and constantly ignored him. They were rude, demanded that he not follow them around, and laughed at him. Dominic called Ryan ‘Shadow’. Ryan hated that, as if he belonged there.
It deeply hurt Ryan; he retreated into himself and avoided contact with everyone. No one liked him.
He got bullied, knocked to the ground, kicked at, his body full of bruises, and all because of his twin Max, and Max’s best friend Dominic.
Reality is a bit different, and more complicated.
The prologue starts with Ryan in his twenties, on the night before his wedding. Wedding? Yes, but not with the one he thought he would spend his life with.
Chapter one is where he’s eighteen and where my review starts.
“It’s only ever been you. Never him.”
“You’re mine, and I’ll be back to claim you. Just you fucking wait and see.”
I can’t tell more, I’m heartbroken. Thank goodness I have book two from this duet, so that’s where I will be until it’s finished.
Did I like Dominic? Certainly not at first. He and Max, Ryan’s twin brother, were horrible to Ryan and constantly ignored him. They were rude, demanded that he not follow them around, and laughed at him. Dominic called Ryan ‘Shadow’. Ryan hated that, as if he belonged there.
It deeply hurt Ryan; he retreated into himself and avoided contact with everyone. No one liked him.
He got bullied, knocked to the ground, kicked at, his body full of bruises, and all because of his twin Max, and Max’s best friend Dominic.
Reality is a bit different, and more complicated.
The prologue starts with Ryan in his twenties, on the night before his wedding. Wedding? Yes, but not with the one he thought he would spend his life with.
Chapter one is where he’s eighteen and where my review starts.
“It’s only ever been you. Never him.”
“You’re mine, and I’ll be back to claim you. Just you fucking wait and see.”
I can’t tell more, I’m heartbroken. Thank goodness I have book two from this duet, so that’s where I will be until it’s finished.
Want to Read
September 3, 2025Second chance contemporary romance
Brother’s best friend
Enemies to lovers
Double bi-awakening
Cheating (not between MMCs)
Brother’s best friend
Enemies to lovers
Double bi-awakening
Cheating (not between MMCs)
Read
May 5, 2026I’m going to leave this unrated until I read book 2. I’m not sure how I felt about this. It was very depressing. I’m not a huge fan of enemies-to-lovers because it upsets me when they argue. And I’m also not a big fan of second chance romances because I hate that it didn’t work out the first time. It’s extra sad if we actually see the first break up, and even sadder again if we know they were suffering in the interim, both being the case in this book.
So this is told almost exclusively from the POV of Ryan, with only 3 chapters from the POV of Dominic. Dominic is the best friend of Ryan’s twin brother Max. Ryan and Max have not been close since they were 15 and Max became friends with Dominic and started excluding Ryan. Ryan starts getting bullied at school and has no friends. Until all of a sudden when they’re 18, Dominic starts showing an interest in Ryan. I hate how Dominic and Max treated Ryan in the beginning and we are never given a good explanation for why they mistreat him and belittle him all the time. Considering that Ryan and Max used to be inseparable I really wish we had been given some sort of explanation besides the fact that Max simply thought that Ryan was their parents’ favourite.
The bulk of the story takes place when they are 18, with the prologue and epilogue taking place 10 years later. From the glimpse we got of the present day in the prologue, I really thought their falling out was going to be worse. Ryan really hates Dominic in the present day and I expected a truly heinous betrayal. But it just turned out to be
So I feel emotionally wrung out, and not in a good way. Hopefully book 2 will help some things make sense. And of course there will be an HEA. But I don’t even know if I want them together. Dominic and Max suuuuck. I assume book 2 will be mostly from Dominic’s POV this time, and primarily set in the present day as he tries to win back Ryan. I also really love the fact that from what we saw of Dominic, it seems that he fell first and harder. I lot harder. I love that. It will help to have more of his POV.
So this is told almost exclusively from the POV of Ryan, with only 3 chapters from the POV of Dominic. Dominic is the best friend of Ryan’s twin brother Max. Ryan and Max have not been close since they were 15 and Max became friends with Dominic and started excluding Ryan. Ryan starts getting bullied at school and has no friends. Until all of a sudden when they’re 18, Dominic starts showing an interest in Ryan. I hate how Dominic and Max treated Ryan in the beginning and we are never given a good explanation for why they mistreat him and belittle him all the time. Considering that Ryan and Max used to be inseparable I really wish we had been given some sort of explanation besides the fact that Max simply thought that Ryan was their parents’ favourite.
The bulk of the story takes place when they are 18, with the prologue and epilogue taking place 10 years later. From the glimpse we got of the present day in the prologue, I really thought their falling out was going to be worse. Ryan really hates Dominic in the present day and I expected a truly heinous betrayal. But it just turned out to be
So I feel emotionally wrung out, and not in a good way. Hopefully book 2 will help some things make sense. And of course there will be an HEA. But I don’t even know if I want them together. Dominic and Max suuuuck. I assume book 2 will be mostly from Dominic’s POV this time, and primarily set in the present day as he tries to win back Ryan. I also really love the fact that from what we saw of Dominic, it seems that he fell first and harder. I lot harder. I love that. It will help to have more of his POV.
May 1, 2026
I was hooked in from the start and couldn't put it down! The way the story is told from mostly ten years ago and then ends in the present has me scrambling and wanting the next one! Fantastic start to a duology.
May 1, 2026
Rating: 4.5/5 🌟
Spice: 2/5 🌶️
Characters: Ryan and Dominic
RTC
Spice: 2/5 🌶️
Characters: Ryan and Dominic
RTC
April 30, 2026
A dare turns into something more between two college kids who couldn’t be more different
I have loved books by this author in the past (I’m usually rereading Patience & Conflicted at any given moment) and as soon as I read the synopsis of this duet, I knew I needed it ASAP.
What a rollercoaster ride! I wanted to hug these bbs and also shake them . They’re so young and it shows. But doesn’t take away from enjoying how hard they fall and how helpless they are to it. I’m FERAL for book two.
If you’re looking for an angsty (and don’t forget smutty) mm romance to sink your teeth into, this one is a great one to pick up!
READ FOR
MM Romance
Twin Brother’s Best Friend
College Romance
Double Bi Awakening
I have loved books by this author in the past (I’m usually rereading Patience & Conflicted at any given moment) and as soon as I read the synopsis of this duet, I knew I needed it ASAP.
What a rollercoaster ride! I wanted to hug these bbs and also shake them . They’re so young and it shows. But doesn’t take away from enjoying how hard they fall and how helpless they are to it. I’m FERAL for book two.
If you’re looking for an angsty (and don’t forget smutty) mm romance to sink your teeth into, this one is a great one to pick up!
READ FOR
MM Romance
Twin Brother’s Best Friend
College Romance
Double Bi Awakening
April 24, 2026
This book is absolutely phenomenal! I was hooked in page one and couldn’t put it down and I can’t wait for the second part! It definitely ripped my heart out and made me have every emotion but roses are the best books! I absolutely recommend reading anything from this author!!
May 3, 2026
I am UNWELL over this book… This duet is shaping up to be something seriously special and I am completely hooked.
Dominic and Ryan are a slow burn dream. Their tension at the start and then learning their heartbreaking (but also cute) history through book one? Honestly, the absolute emotional chaos of it all! SEND HELP. Their story is full of that delicious push and pull, where you don’t know if you want them to kiss or fight (or both).
This book has:
* brother’s best friend
* enemies to lovers energy
* double bi-awakening
* the most protective MC
* slow burn
* so much pining at times it physically hurts
* angst, tension and emotional damage
* a reluctant friendship turning into something consuming
This is very much a part one, and you feel it, but in the best way. Dominic has one hell of a hill to climb to win Ryan’s love back.
Dominic and Ryan are a slow burn dream. Their tension at the start and then learning their heartbreaking (but also cute) history through book one? Honestly, the absolute emotional chaos of it all! SEND HELP. Their story is full of that delicious push and pull, where you don’t know if you want them to kiss or fight (or both).
This book has:
* brother’s best friend
* enemies to lovers energy
* double bi-awakening
* the most protective MC
* slow burn
* so much pining at times it physically hurts
* angst, tension and emotional damage
* a reluctant friendship turning into something consuming
This is very much a part one, and you feel it, but in the best way. Dominic has one hell of a hill to climb to win Ryan’s love back.
May 4, 2026
4.5 stars
***ARC Review***
This is my honest and voluntary review.
This is the first book in a duet featuring Ryan and Dominic. (FYI - the books in this duet should be read in order). I love the way this book is organized. Present day chapters bookend past events and it gives for a truly compelling read.
Shadows Never Lie is high angst! There’s a lot of stuff that Ryan and Dominic have to navigate in this story. Ryan is dealing with being rejected by his twin brother, Max, in favor of his brother’s best friend, Dominic. Dominic is dealing with a difficult home situation. Both MCs are 18 years old trying to navigate the rough hand life has currently given them, while also trying to figure out the unexpected fluidity with their sexuality.
The interesting thing to me in this book is that it seems as if things are set up to appear like Dominic doesn’t care about Ryan at all at first, but I get the impression that Dominic is acutely aware of him. That he’s enamored with Ryan before he even realizes why. At any rate, things definitely take a turn one night after Dominic discovers what some bullies have done to Ryan. There’s an unanticipated vulnerability that transpires between both MCs after that.
The emotions are dialed up to an eleven in this story, both good and bad. But it’s also a story about figuring out what love looks like and all the ways that we can let something life changing unintentionally slip through our fingers. I think the connection between Dominic and Ryan is raw and genuine. Despite being young, what they’re feeling is earth shattering and real.
While this first part makes you wonder how the two of these men are going to get to their HEA, there’s comfort in knowing that they ARE going to get one. Taylor tells you right from the beginning in the synopsis. So buckle up for an emotional read, but have comfort in knowing that Ryan and Dominic will find their way back to one another.
***ARC Review***
This is my honest and voluntary review.
This is the first book in a duet featuring Ryan and Dominic. (FYI - the books in this duet should be read in order). I love the way this book is organized. Present day chapters bookend past events and it gives for a truly compelling read.
Shadows Never Lie is high angst! There’s a lot of stuff that Ryan and Dominic have to navigate in this story. Ryan is dealing with being rejected by his twin brother, Max, in favor of his brother’s best friend, Dominic. Dominic is dealing with a difficult home situation. Both MCs are 18 years old trying to navigate the rough hand life has currently given them, while also trying to figure out the unexpected fluidity with their sexuality.
The interesting thing to me in this book is that it seems as if things are set up to appear like Dominic doesn’t care about Ryan at all at first, but I get the impression that Dominic is acutely aware of him. That he’s enamored with Ryan before he even realizes why. At any rate, things definitely take a turn one night after Dominic discovers what some bullies have done to Ryan. There’s an unanticipated vulnerability that transpires between both MCs after that.
The emotions are dialed up to an eleven in this story, both good and bad. But it’s also a story about figuring out what love looks like and all the ways that we can let something life changing unintentionally slip through our fingers. I think the connection between Dominic and Ryan is raw and genuine. Despite being young, what they’re feeling is earth shattering and real.
While this first part makes you wonder how the two of these men are going to get to their HEA, there’s comfort in knowing that they ARE going to get one. Taylor tells you right from the beginning in the synopsis. So buckle up for an emotional read, but have comfort in knowing that Ryan and Dominic will find their way back to one another.
May 1, 2026
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Shadows Never Lie starts the Shadow Duet by Lark Tayor. The story starts in the present, where we see Ryan celebrating his engagement to a woman. He’s moved on in life since high school, has friends and a successful job. But Dominic has always been in his thoughts. Ryan hasn’t heard from Dominic in a decade and then Dominic walks through the door. The book then flashes back to what their lives were like in high school and the start of their relationship.
Since the majority of this book shows the guys as teens, the story has the intensity of young, first love with many hurdles. The story is not nearly finished and this book ends on a cliffhanger.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Shadows Never Lie starts the Shadow Duet by Lark Tayor. The story starts in the present, where we see Ryan celebrating his engagement to a woman. He’s moved on in life since high school, has friends and a successful job. But Dominic has always been in his thoughts. Ryan hasn’t heard from Dominic in a decade and then Dominic walks through the door. The book then flashes back to what their lives were like in high school and the start of their relationship.
Since the majority of this book shows the guys as teens, the story has the intensity of young, first love with many hurdles. The story is not nearly finished and this book ends on a cliffhanger.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
April 30, 2026
I was so nervous going into this book, bet it’s a duet and I knew I’d have to wait for the HEA but I’m so glad I dove in and loved it. I’ve read all of Larks books, but this one…it’s different and I can’t place my finger on it? It not just that it’s not PNR,
There is just something…softer? I’m not sure that’s it either. Maybe it’s that Cora Rose is rubbing off on her? I don’t know, either way I LOVED IT! Childhood friends to lovers-ish? It’s painful and angsty and sexier than I thought. It’s not sunshine and roses, there is a lot of pain and I cannot wait to read part two and their HEA!
There is just something…softer? I’m not sure that’s it either. Maybe it’s that Cora Rose is rubbing off on her? I don’t know, either way I LOVED IT! Childhood friends to lovers-ish? It’s painful and angsty and sexier than I thought. It’s not sunshine and roses, there is a lot of pain and I cannot wait to read part two and their HEA!
May 1, 2026
Dom & Ryan
I can't wait for part two. I already know that this duet is going on my reread list but I need to know how Dom and Ryan's story ends up. This was so good.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I can't wait for part two. I already know that this duet is going on my reread list but I need to know how Dom and Ryan's story ends up. This was so good.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
May 4, 2026
RTC
4.5 stars
Immediately diving into book 2!
4.5 stars
Immediately diving into book 2!
May 1, 2026
Well I devoured this in a single day! I normally would never choose a high-angst book with a cliffhanger ending, BUT knowing that part 2 was coming very soon and that I’ve really been enjoying Lark’s writing lately had me signing up for an arc and I’m so glad I did.
*I received an arc copy all opinions are my own*
Even though going into this we know what’s coming at the end, the build up of the relationship between Ryan and Dominic was so, so good that it hurt even more when it all came crashing down.
I really hope we get more insight into Max in book two though bc wtf is his deal?! He’s such a douche and I’m glad Amy let him have it in the end.
*I received an arc copy all opinions are my own*
Even though going into this we know what’s coming at the end, the build up of the relationship between Ryan and Dominic was so, so good that it hurt even more when it all came crashing down.
I really hope we get more insight into Max in book two though bc wtf is his deal?! He’s such a douche and I’m glad Amy let him have it in the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2026
5+ stars
When I say I demolished this, I DEMOLISHED it! Cor, this book had me firmly in its grasp and did not let me go.
Dominic. Okay, so I know I should be extra peeved at him right now, but I also feel conflicted because I’m not as furious with him as I thought I’d be. I’ll admit I hadn’t expected to see behind Dom’s cocky, arrogant exterior so soon, and I think this massively helped him secure my affections. I loooooved seeing him being so open and vulnerable with Ryan, melting at every single sweet thing he said and did, while mentally hugging him for the situation he’s in with his dad.
And Ryan, aww, I loved him so much! Kind-hearted and lonely, it’s heartbreaking seeing him on the outside of everything, looking in on the close friendship between his twin brother, Max, and Dom and being shunned rather than included. Is it any wonder he has massive insecurities about his place in Dom’s life after they get together?
There’s some fabulous character building here from Lark to make me feel torn in where my loyalties and affections should fall, because in truth I feel for both of them so badly. They have so many elements of a successful relationship, but they’re not there yet. It’s very much a right person, wrong time situation, because they both – okay, particularly Dom – have some growing up to do before they can have the relationship they both deserve.
There’s no doubt in my mind at all that these two should be endgame though. How they are together *sigh* I’m shipping them so much! They have a genuine connection, and I loved the comfort they feel in each other’s arm. There’s some really cute moments in this, and that’s what made it hurt even more knowing what was coming for these two. I did wince every time the topic of the future came up.
Ryan’s brother, Max, features prominently in this book and has a significant part to play as a complication for Dom and Ry’s relationship. He made me want to growl whenever I saw him. Even though we saw a glimpse of a hopefully much nicer future Max, past resentful Max has infuriated me so much that it’s going to take me some time to forgive him.
Dom did make a massive mess up of things, but he’s young and torn in two directions between his friend and his relationship. I do think he needs a flick on the forehead for not being honest, and he definitely does have a lot to make up for, but he’s not enemy number one to me as much I thought he’d be. Max definitely takes that spot for me.
It’s clear from the epilogue that Dom’s taken time away to grow, and I’m so excited to see how things go in the next book as he tries to make up for things. I’m expecting Dom at his finest to try and win his Shadow back. One thing I’ll never doubt about Dom is how deep and true his love is for Ry; he now just needs to prove it.
-----
Some of my favourite quotes
“You don’t quit, Shadow. That’s not what we do. We’re fighters, and we keep fighting.”
“You’re always pretending. Trying to blend in with the shadows when what you deserve is to shine under a spotlight.”
I should’ve known Ryan would haunt me. That’s what shadows do. You can’t escape them.
“I don’t care how far it is. I don’t give a shit if there’s a million fucking miles between us, Shadow. You’ll still be mine.”
“I love you because you’re you. Because you refuse to follow the crowd. Because you go your own way. I love you because you make me laugh. Because you’re not afraid of me. Because you make me happy.”
He was my Shadow, and for better or worse, I couldn’t escape him. Now it was time to get him back.
“Walk away if you want, Shadow, but I’ll get you back. I don’t give a shit how many years pass, or who you give yourself to in the meantime. It means fuck all. You’re mine, and I’ll be back to claim you. Just you fucking wait and see.”
“I haven’t forgotten my promise, and I know damn well you haven’t either, Ry. You walked away from me once, but I’m not letting it happen again.”
When I say I demolished this, I DEMOLISHED it! Cor, this book had me firmly in its grasp and did not let me go.
Dominic. Okay, so I know I should be extra peeved at him right now, but I also feel conflicted because I’m not as furious with him as I thought I’d be. I’ll admit I hadn’t expected to see behind Dom’s cocky, arrogant exterior so soon, and I think this massively helped him secure my affections. I loooooved seeing him being so open and vulnerable with Ryan, melting at every single sweet thing he said and did, while mentally hugging him for the situation he’s in with his dad.
And Ryan, aww, I loved him so much! Kind-hearted and lonely, it’s heartbreaking seeing him on the outside of everything, looking in on the close friendship between his twin brother, Max, and Dom and being shunned rather than included. Is it any wonder he has massive insecurities about his place in Dom’s life after they get together?
There’s some fabulous character building here from Lark to make me feel torn in where my loyalties and affections should fall, because in truth I feel for both of them so badly. They have so many elements of a successful relationship, but they’re not there yet. It’s very much a right person, wrong time situation, because they both – okay, particularly Dom – have some growing up to do before they can have the relationship they both deserve.
There’s no doubt in my mind at all that these two should be endgame though. How they are together *sigh* I’m shipping them so much! They have a genuine connection, and I loved the comfort they feel in each other’s arm. There’s some really cute moments in this, and that’s what made it hurt even more knowing what was coming for these two. I did wince every time the topic of the future came up.
Ryan’s brother, Max, features prominently in this book and has a significant part to play as a complication for Dom and Ry’s relationship. He made me want to growl whenever I saw him. Even though we saw a glimpse of a hopefully much nicer future Max, past resentful Max has infuriated me so much that it’s going to take me some time to forgive him.
Dom did make a massive mess up of things, but he’s young and torn in two directions between his friend and his relationship. I do think he needs a flick on the forehead for not being honest, and he definitely does have a lot to make up for, but he’s not enemy number one to me as much I thought he’d be. Max definitely takes that spot for me.
It’s clear from the epilogue that Dom’s taken time away to grow, and I’m so excited to see how things go in the next book as he tries to make up for things. I’m expecting Dom at his finest to try and win his Shadow back. One thing I’ll never doubt about Dom is how deep and true his love is for Ry; he now just needs to prove it.
-----
Some of my favourite quotes
“You don’t quit, Shadow. That’s not what we do. We’re fighters, and we keep fighting.”
“You’re always pretending. Trying to blend in with the shadows when what you deserve is to shine under a spotlight.”
I should’ve known Ryan would haunt me. That’s what shadows do. You can’t escape them.
“I don’t care how far it is. I don’t give a shit if there’s a million fucking miles between us, Shadow. You’ll still be mine.”
“I love you because you’re you. Because you refuse to follow the crowd. Because you go your own way. I love you because you make me laugh. Because you’re not afraid of me. Because you make me happy.”
He was my Shadow, and for better or worse, I couldn’t escape him. Now it was time to get him back.
“Walk away if you want, Shadow, but I’ll get you back. I don’t give a shit how many years pass, or who you give yourself to in the meantime. It means fuck all. You’re mine, and I’ll be back to claim you. Just you fucking wait and see.”
“I haven’t forgotten my promise, and I know damn well you haven’t either, Ry. You walked away from me once, but I’m not letting it happen again.”
Review of advance copy
5/5⭐
First of all I'm really grateful to have recieved an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
I'm honestly going to need therapy after finishing this, because it feels like I was put through an emotional wringer. I enjoyed it though, hence the therapy 👀.
I wanted to read this because I love the author's writing and the premise of the story really intrigued me. And after the prologue had me in it's clutches, I was hooked right way and couldn't put the book down. The writing really had me in a chokehold. I loved everything, the dialogues, the descriptions, all of it made the story more vivid and it felt like you were right there with the characters.
Let's break down the characters. Ryan was such a sweetheart, I was in love with him since the beginning. I wanted to give him the biggest hug all throughout the book, he really didn't deserve any of the things that were done to him. I admired how caring he was towards his mom, helping her without saying anything or putting attention on himself, just because he didn't want everything to be on her shoulders. I loved his characters development the most, especially how strong and more confident he got over time. He changed a lot in the past timeline, but even compared to his older self he's a different person, which makes sense since he grew up. One of my favourite scenes, that made me emotional was the part where he told some hard truths to Dominic's dad. He definitely needed to hear all that. I don't know if I'm going to be able to forgive him, but I liked the interaction between them.
Now, I wasn't so sure about Dominic at the beginning and didn't like him much, but over the course of the book I did fall in love with him too. Especially after he started to open himself up more and we learn about his home situation. I wanted to give him the biggest hug too. That's why I was even more emotionally devastated after what he did at the end of the book. He will need to do a lot of grovelling for me to be able to forgive him for what happened with Ryan.
And finally, I didn't like Max at all. Who just lets their sibling (twin brother even) be treated like that and act so shitty towards them. And he wasn't just mean, but downright cruel at times, so I would really like to know what is the reason why he's acting this way. Not that it would excuse his behavior. I don't know if I can forgive him personally, but we will see what happens in the next book. Why have enemies though if you can just have a twin like Max, am I right.
Dominic's and Ryan's chemistry was explosive and the forbidden aspect made it even more 🔥. My favourite scenes had to be the ones when they were vulnerable with each other. I'm a sucker for soft moments.
I really want to know if there's something more behind the golden boy thing. I feel like there are still some secrets to be revealed and I can't wait to find out what they are.
SOMEBODY PLEASE SEDATE ME UNTIL THE NEXT BOOK GETS HERE.
Some favourite quotes:
-You're under my skin, and I don't know how to get you out. Worse, I don't think I want to. I...I like having you there too much.
-If he couldn't hold himself together, then I'd do it for him.
🔥 brother's best friend
🔥 enemies to lovers
🔥 bullying (especially at the beginning of the book)
🔥 double bi-awakening
🔥 virgin MC
🔥 opposites attract
🔥 hurt/comfort (except the comfort was the ice cream I ate in bed whilst crying uncontrollably after finishing this book, or did the book finish me 👀)
First of all I'm really grateful to have recieved an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
I'm honestly going to need therapy after finishing this, because it feels like I was put through an emotional wringer. I enjoyed it though, hence the therapy 👀.
I wanted to read this because I love the author's writing and the premise of the story really intrigued me. And after the prologue had me in it's clutches, I was hooked right way and couldn't put the book down. The writing really had me in a chokehold. I loved everything, the dialogues, the descriptions, all of it made the story more vivid and it felt like you were right there with the characters.
Let's break down the characters. Ryan was such a sweetheart, I was in love with him since the beginning. I wanted to give him the biggest hug all throughout the book, he really didn't deserve any of the things that were done to him. I admired how caring he was towards his mom, helping her without saying anything or putting attention on himself, just because he didn't want everything to be on her shoulders. I loved his characters development the most, especially how strong and more confident he got over time. He changed a lot in the past timeline, but even compared to his older self he's a different person, which makes sense since he grew up. One of my favourite scenes, that made me emotional was the part where he told some hard truths to Dominic's dad. He definitely needed to hear all that. I don't know if I'm going to be able to forgive him, but I liked the interaction between them.
Now, I wasn't so sure about Dominic at the beginning and didn't like him much, but over the course of the book I did fall in love with him too. Especially after he started to open himself up more and we learn about his home situation. I wanted to give him the biggest hug too. That's why I was even more emotionally devastated after what he did at the end of the book. He will need to do a lot of grovelling for me to be able to forgive him for what happened with Ryan.
And finally, I didn't like Max at all. Who just lets their sibling (twin brother even) be treated like that and act so shitty towards them. And he wasn't just mean, but downright cruel at times, so I would really like to know what is the reason why he's acting this way. Not that it would excuse his behavior. I don't know if I can forgive him personally, but we will see what happens in the next book. Why have enemies though if you can just have a twin like Max, am I right.
Dominic's and Ryan's chemistry was explosive and the forbidden aspect made it even more 🔥. My favourite scenes had to be the ones when they were vulnerable with each other. I'm a sucker for soft moments.
I really want to know if there's something more behind the golden boy thing. I feel like there are still some secrets to be revealed and I can't wait to find out what they are.
SOMEBODY PLEASE SEDATE ME UNTIL THE NEXT BOOK GETS HERE.
Some favourite quotes:
-You're under my skin, and I don't know how to get you out. Worse, I don't think I want to. I...I like having you there too much.
-If he couldn't hold himself together, then I'd do it for him.
🔥 brother's best friend
🔥 enemies to lovers
🔥 bullying (especially at the beginning of the book)
🔥 double bi-awakening
🔥 virgin MC
🔥 opposites attract
🔥 hurt/comfort (except the comfort was the ice cream I ate in bed whilst crying uncontrollably after finishing this book, or did the book finish me 👀)
Review of advance copy received from Altro
ARC REVIEW
SHADOWS NEVER LIE (SHADOW DUET 1) di Lark Taylor
VOTO: 5⭐2 🌶
RECENSIONE: È POSSIBILE DARE STELLINE INFINITE INVECE DI SOLO 5?! MAMMA MIA CHE MERAVIGLIA!! Ho bisogno del secondo.... Tipo ORA!!!😭😭😭😭😭
Questo libro è meraviglioso, uno dei migliori non solo del mese ma sicuramente dell'anno. I protagonisti sono Dominic e Ryan: Ryan ha un fratello gemello di nome Max con il quale non ha più un grande rapporto dovuto sia alla madre che sembra "amare" più Ryan di lui e Dominic che è il migliore amico di Max. Ryan non lo sopporta perché lo accusa di essere stato lui ad intromettersi nel rapporto tra i gemelli e soprattutto non sopporta il soprannome "Shadow" che proprio Dominic gli ha dato perchè tutte le volte che lo sente lo associa all'angolo buio dove è stato relegato.
In realtà quel nomignolo ha un significato nascosto e le cose tra Dominic e Ryan cominciano a cambiare anche perché Max si fidanza e passa il tempo con la sua ragazza. Dominic per questo motivo si ritroverà ad "aspettare" l'amico con il suo gemello. Peccato che Ryan non lo sopporti perché è colpa di entrambi se Ryan viene bullizzato da alcuni ragazzi che se la prendono con lui per farla pagare a Max. Quando un giorno Dominic noterà i lividi su Ryan, il loro rapporto cambierà per sempre ma non senza che Ryan paghi per la sua protezione.
Il libro è tutto raccontato dal punto di vista di Ryan, ma i pochi pov di Dominic sono quelli che mi hanno fatto emozionare di più. Ho versato lacrime per entrambi e ho adorato ogni interazione tra i due e nonostante il prologo, volevo leggere sempre di più per capire come si fosse arrivati a quel punto.... Attendo il secondo libro adesso perché non mi accontento di quel finale e devo sapere!!!
Ho ricevuto una copia Arc in cambio della mia opinione sincera.
ENGLISH REVIEW:
This book is wonderful—one of the best not just of the month, but definitely of the year!!! The main characters are Dominic and Ryan: Ryan has a twin brother named Max, with who he doesn't have a great relationship anymore, partly because of their mother, who seems to “love” Ryan more than him, and partly because of Dominic, who is Max's best friend. Ryan can’t stand him because he accuses him of getting in between the twins, and above all, he can’t stand the nickname “Shadow” that Dominic gave him. But one day Dominic notices the bruises on Ryan, and their relationship will change forever—but not without Ryan paying the price for his protection.
The book is told exclusively from Ryan's point of view, but the few Dominic's POVs are the ones that touched me the most. I shed tears for both of them and I loved every interaction between the two, and despite the prologue, I wanted to keep reading more and more to understand how they had gotten to that point.... I’m waiting for the second book now because I need to know!!! I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The angst!!!!! Oh, the sweet angst of this book!! Shadows Never Lie was so friggin good! My inner eighteen year old, angsty heart was screaming and crying over this entire story and I loved every minute of it!! 💔😍
Ryan is the odd man out when it comes to his being around his brother Max, which is sad considering his brother is also his identical twin. Somewhere along the way Ryan was pushed out when Max became best friends with Dominic and not only was Ryan relegated to the shadows, but he was made to feel less than by his own brother. 😭 At first it's easy to dislike both Dominic and Max, but as the story unfolds and Ryan gets to know more about Dom, that dislike lessons. However, Max is still a hard pill to swallow through most of the book, but he continues to be a huge part of the story. Max is a pivotal point in which both Ryan and Dominic rotate around when making decisions and considering Max is a central emotional tie to both of them, it makes sense that he doesn't just fade into the background as much I wished he would at times. Enough about him....
Ryan is super sweet, self depreciating in very humorous ways, but also very aware of his family that he's sensitive to helping around the house to help ease his mother's burden, even when Max will put him down for it later on. All around, Ryan is just a good kid. The one place he shows any fire or passion is when he stands up to Dominic and Dom in return burns from how Ryan never stands down. He lives for those moments, which is how their awakening begins. A challenge that ignites a flame in both of them and then suddenly....it hits...oh no...he likes Dom. A guy he hates. 🤯🤣 I love Lark and the way she's able to inject humor right into the heaviest moments or even the steamiest. It's really the best and Ryan's character is fantastically witty. I couldn't get enough.
Both men are a tangle of emotions in figuring out who they are while in their final year of school before they go off to university. Shadows Never Lie is hot and sweet, it's young love when everything is heightened, but also that uncertain feeling of when you don't have adult choices yet. So it's secret, stolen moments in between classes or behind locked doors. Everything is new and exciting so there is lots of discovery and bumbling, making bad decisions, hurt feelings come into play and ultimately making choices that aren't always your own to make.😭
This first book was literally unputdownable and Larks' best work to date. I'm now sitting on the edge of my seat until book two arrives because I have to know how these two find their way back to one another. I'm not sure I'll be able to get them out of my head until I have closure.🙃 I also have hope that Max gets redemption or at least begs forgiveness for his horrid behavior. I feel there is more to him than we all know and a reason why Dom stayed friends with him. So many questions and I'm really looking forward to reading more about these two.
Ryan is the odd man out when it comes to his being around his brother Max, which is sad considering his brother is also his identical twin. Somewhere along the way Ryan was pushed out when Max became best friends with Dominic and not only was Ryan relegated to the shadows, but he was made to feel less than by his own brother. 😭 At first it's easy to dislike both Dominic and Max, but as the story unfolds and Ryan gets to know more about Dom, that dislike lessons. However, Max is still a hard pill to swallow through most of the book, but he continues to be a huge part of the story. Max is a pivotal point in which both Ryan and Dominic rotate around when making decisions and considering Max is a central emotional tie to both of them, it makes sense that he doesn't just fade into the background as much I wished he would at times. Enough about him....
Ryan is super sweet, self depreciating in very humorous ways, but also very aware of his family that he's sensitive to helping around the house to help ease his mother's burden, even when Max will put him down for it later on. All around, Ryan is just a good kid. The one place he shows any fire or passion is when he stands up to Dominic and Dom in return burns from how Ryan never stands down. He lives for those moments, which is how their awakening begins. A challenge that ignites a flame in both of them and then suddenly....it hits...oh no...he likes Dom. A guy he hates. 🤯🤣 I love Lark and the way she's able to inject humor right into the heaviest moments or even the steamiest. It's really the best and Ryan's character is fantastically witty. I couldn't get enough.
Both men are a tangle of emotions in figuring out who they are while in their final year of school before they go off to university. Shadows Never Lie is hot and sweet, it's young love when everything is heightened, but also that uncertain feeling of when you don't have adult choices yet. So it's secret, stolen moments in between classes or behind locked doors. Everything is new and exciting so there is lots of discovery and bumbling, making bad decisions, hurt feelings come into play and ultimately making choices that aren't always your own to make.😭
This first book was literally unputdownable and Larks' best work to date. I'm now sitting on the edge of my seat until book two arrives because I have to know how these two find their way back to one another. I'm not sure I'll be able to get them out of my head until I have closure.🙃 I also have hope that Max gets redemption or at least begs forgiveness for his horrid behavior. I feel there is more to him than we all know and a reason why Dom stayed friends with him. So many questions and I'm really looking forward to reading more about these two.
Review of advance copy received from Author
**I was gifted an ARC of this book**
This story absolutely wrecked me—in the best way. And now I have to wait for the second part of the duet without even a HFN? Brutal. That said, I fully trust Lark Taylor to make the payoff worth it.
This was such an emotional read, and I’m still thinking about Ryan and Dominic a day later. Ryan and Max are identical twins, and Dominic is Max’s best friend. The story is told in dual POV, though it leans heavily toward Ryan’s perspective, with a few key chapters from Dominic that add just enough to keep you questioning everything.
Ryan is such a sweet, gentle soul, which made it especially hard to watch how poorly he was treated in the beginning—particularly by Max and, at times, Dominic. I found myself constantly wondering about Dominic’s feelings: were they always there, or did everything shift in that pivotal moment when he propositioned Ryan? Did he really think Ryan would comply? From that point on, their connection builds in this quiet, compelling way—full of confusion, curiosity, and an undeniable pull neither of them fully understands yet.
The slow burn really worked for me. I loved watching Dominic grow more protective of Ryan, and even more, I loved seeing Ryan come into his own—gaining confidence and starting to recognize his worth. Their first time together at the music festival was such a standout moment. Dominic’s care and intention made it feel incredibly tender and meaningful—I was completely swooning.
Of course, there’s a heavy undercurrent of tension surrounding Max, and that payoff was just as painful as I expected. Finding out he knew about Ryan and Dominic all along added another layer of heartbreak, and Dominic’s betrayal of that trust left me conflicted. It made me question whether his feelings for Ryan were truly about Ryan, or if they were tangled up in something unresolved with Max.
The ending was devastating. When Ryan learns about Dominic leaving—and the fact that Dominic doesn’t fight for him—it’s a gut punch. It left me questioning the depth of Dominic’s love, which I suspect is exactly what the author intended going into book two.
One thing I did really love was the two scenes with Ryan and Dominic’s dad. Both of those stood out—Ryan standing up for Dominic, and then seeing his dad begin to reflect and change. It felt like a small but meaningful thread of growth in an otherwise heavy story.
Overall, this book is an emotional rollercoaster that left me with more questions than answers—in a way that has me completely hooked. I’m especially eager to see what happened during their ten-year separation and how their story comes back together. I don’t usually gravitate toward romance with cliffhangers, but this one absolutely worked for me.
If you love best friend’s brother, secret relationships, a double awakening, lots of angst, and a story that lingers long after the final page, you’ll want to pick this one up.
This story absolutely wrecked me—in the best way. And now I have to wait for the second part of the duet without even a HFN? Brutal. That said, I fully trust Lark Taylor to make the payoff worth it.
This was such an emotional read, and I’m still thinking about Ryan and Dominic a day later. Ryan and Max are identical twins, and Dominic is Max’s best friend. The story is told in dual POV, though it leans heavily toward Ryan’s perspective, with a few key chapters from Dominic that add just enough to keep you questioning everything.
Ryan is such a sweet, gentle soul, which made it especially hard to watch how poorly he was treated in the beginning—particularly by Max and, at times, Dominic. I found myself constantly wondering about Dominic’s feelings: were they always there, or did everything shift in that pivotal moment when he propositioned Ryan? Did he really think Ryan would comply? From that point on, their connection builds in this quiet, compelling way—full of confusion, curiosity, and an undeniable pull neither of them fully understands yet.
The slow burn really worked for me. I loved watching Dominic grow more protective of Ryan, and even more, I loved seeing Ryan come into his own—gaining confidence and starting to recognize his worth. Their first time together at the music festival was such a standout moment. Dominic’s care and intention made it feel incredibly tender and meaningful—I was completely swooning.
Of course, there’s a heavy undercurrent of tension surrounding Max, and that payoff was just as painful as I expected. Finding out he knew about Ryan and Dominic all along added another layer of heartbreak, and Dominic’s betrayal of that trust left me conflicted. It made me question whether his feelings for Ryan were truly about Ryan, or if they were tangled up in something unresolved with Max.
The ending was devastating. When Ryan learns about Dominic leaving—and the fact that Dominic doesn’t fight for him—it’s a gut punch. It left me questioning the depth of Dominic’s love, which I suspect is exactly what the author intended going into book two.
One thing I did really love was the two scenes with Ryan and Dominic’s dad. Both of those stood out—Ryan standing up for Dominic, and then seeing his dad begin to reflect and change. It felt like a small but meaningful thread of growth in an otherwise heavy story.
Overall, this book is an emotional rollercoaster that left me with more questions than answers—in a way that has me completely hooked. I’m especially eager to see what happened during their ten-year separation and how their story comes back together. I don’t usually gravitate toward romance with cliffhangers, but this one absolutely worked for me.
If you love best friend’s brother, secret relationships, a double awakening, lots of angst, and a story that lingers long after the final page, you’ll want to pick this one up.
May 6, 2026
5++++ Stars!!!
OMG! This book! Everything about it, it just grabbed me, and it won't let go. This book was told in two parts: the present, which starts at Ryan's bachelor's party and marks the return of Dominic and Max after 10 years in the army, and the past, which shows us when they all met and how Ryan and Dominic fell in love and then broke things off.
I adore Ryan, who is such a lovely boy all-around. Good son, trying to ease his mom's load in the house after realizing she's at the end of her rope, even when he's dead tired from his own load. Good friend, supporting Dominic when he needs it, even when that support is not always reciprocated at first. Idiot boys are idiot, after all. *sighs and kicks Dominic for good measure* Not that I don't love Dominic, for the most part. He can be an idiot, especially where Max (Ryan's twin brother and Dominic's BFF) is concerned, but he can also be vulnerable. The way his poor excuse for a father treats him just kills me, and I want to hug him and make it better. And at the same time, I want to give him a good shake and ask him what he was thinking by not telling Ryan of his plans after high school. I totally get why Dominic wants to do what he does, but especially with how the dynamic is between Max and Ryan, he left that door wide open.
I loved Ryan and Dominic together, and I loved how it all started with Ryan gaining some confidence to stand up to Dominic and with Dominic realizing that perhaps Ryan wasn't the golden boy Max had been telling him he was all this time. This is a slow burn, and the pining and the yearning between these two boys is a beautiful, angsty thing. That's not to say that I didn't want to knock their heads together at some time and just tell them to talk and get their acts together already, but at the same time, the journey was as good as the end result once they finally got there.
Now, Max, I don't know what to feel about him. From what I gathered from the bits in the present, it seems he might be redeemable, but after what he did in the past, he will have to do some groveling to Ryan and behave quite differently for me to believe he has really changed. So, I guess we'll see.
Overall, so far, this has been a revelation. Definitely my favorite among all of the books I've read by Ms. Taylor, and I've read quite a few, and my top favorite so far this year. The writing, the rollercoaster of emotions, the engaging characters, and the fascinating plot have captivated me, and I'm looking forward to the conclusion. Highly recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure; a review wasn't a requirement. ***
OMG! This book! Everything about it, it just grabbed me, and it won't let go. This book was told in two parts: the present, which starts at Ryan's bachelor's party and marks the return of Dominic and Max after 10 years in the army, and the past, which shows us when they all met and how Ryan and Dominic fell in love and then broke things off.
I adore Ryan, who is such a lovely boy all-around. Good son, trying to ease his mom's load in the house after realizing she's at the end of her rope, even when he's dead tired from his own load. Good friend, supporting Dominic when he needs it, even when that support is not always reciprocated at first. Idiot boys are idiot, after all. *sighs and kicks Dominic for good measure* Not that I don't love Dominic, for the most part. He can be an idiot, especially where Max (Ryan's twin brother and Dominic's BFF) is concerned, but he can also be vulnerable. The way his poor excuse for a father treats him just kills me, and I want to hug him and make it better. And at the same time, I want to give him a good shake and ask him what he was thinking by not telling Ryan of his plans after high school. I totally get why Dominic wants to do what he does, but especially with how the dynamic is between Max and Ryan, he left that door wide open.
I loved Ryan and Dominic together, and I loved how it all started with Ryan gaining some confidence to stand up to Dominic and with Dominic realizing that perhaps Ryan wasn't the golden boy Max had been telling him he was all this time. This is a slow burn, and the pining and the yearning between these two boys is a beautiful, angsty thing. That's not to say that I didn't want to knock their heads together at some time and just tell them to talk and get their acts together already, but at the same time, the journey was as good as the end result once they finally got there.
Now, Max, I don't know what to feel about him. From what I gathered from the bits in the present, it seems he might be redeemable, but after what he did in the past, he will have to do some groveling to Ryan and behave quite differently for me to believe he has really changed. So, I guess we'll see.
Overall, so far, this has been a revelation. Definitely my favorite among all of the books I've read by Ms. Taylor, and I've read quite a few, and my top favorite so far this year. The writing, the rollercoaster of emotions, the engaging characters, and the fascinating plot have captivated me, and I'm looking forward to the conclusion. Highly recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure; a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is fantastic. Amazing. I still can’t believe I got this ARC and I am beyond grateful for it 🙌
But what I am going to say has nothing to do with it being an ARC, I would’ve said the exact same thing anyway.
Lark Taylor is already one of my favourite authors when it comes to making you feel things. And here you’ll be feeling all possible emotions through every page.
I did absolutely nothing today. I ignored everything, because once I started, there was just no way to stop. It all starts with a prologue that grabs you by the throat, and the intensity literally never lets go after that, not even for a second. The tension is so thick, I still feel tight in my chest.
“I’d been right. He was like the sun. A sun I’d flown too close to, only to be burned and sent crashing to earth.”
Every page felt sharp, emotional and overwhelming in the best way.
My heart was constantly breaking for Ryan, and I hated Max so much, I hope we will get some explanations from him as well.
But I am just obsessed with Ryan and Dominic, what they had is raw, consuming and felt so real. I felt everything right along with them 💜
“I can’t stop thinking about you, Ryan. I want you all the time. I’ve never felt like this before. It’s like I’m dying of thirst, and you’re all that’s going to save me.”
There was so much hurt here 💔 And the last 20–25% I was just beside myself. I was torn between rushing to the end and being genuinely scared to get there 🫨
And while both Ryan and Dominic are 18, and Lark explicitly notes that they act their age, nothing felt out of place or silly. Their decisions, emotions, reactions - it all made sense and I loved it so much. An interesting thing is that while we kind of get the idea of what is going to happen because of the prologue, the way it all unfolded was never predictable.
Also, the POV choice! It’s mostly Ryan’s perspective, with just a couple of glimpses into Dominic’s, and it made everything hit so much harder. I always feel like the limited insight amplifies the emotional intensity even more.
Now I’m just sitting here wondering how I’m supposed to survive until book two. Because yes, we know there’s a HEA coming, but how?? I am so excited to see how it actually works out, the situation is so complicated that I genuinely can’t imagine the level of grovelling we’re about to get and I need it immediately 😭 preferably yesterday 🥲
I should probably go touch some grass now 🫠
But yeah, one of the best things I’ve read this year 💜
But what I am going to say has nothing to do with it being an ARC, I would’ve said the exact same thing anyway.
Lark Taylor is already one of my favourite authors when it comes to making you feel things. And here you’ll be feeling all possible emotions through every page.
I did absolutely nothing today. I ignored everything, because once I started, there was just no way to stop. It all starts with a prologue that grabs you by the throat, and the intensity literally never lets go after that, not even for a second. The tension is so thick, I still feel tight in my chest.
“I’d been right. He was like the sun. A sun I’d flown too close to, only to be burned and sent crashing to earth.”
Every page felt sharp, emotional and overwhelming in the best way.
My heart was constantly breaking for Ryan, and I hated Max so much, I hope we will get some explanations from him as well.
But I am just obsessed with Ryan and Dominic, what they had is raw, consuming and felt so real. I felt everything right along with them 💜
“I can’t stop thinking about you, Ryan. I want you all the time. I’ve never felt like this before. It’s like I’m dying of thirst, and you’re all that’s going to save me.”
There was so much hurt here 💔 And the last 20–25% I was just beside myself. I was torn between rushing to the end and being genuinely scared to get there 🫨
And while both Ryan and Dominic are 18, and Lark explicitly notes that they act their age, nothing felt out of place or silly. Their decisions, emotions, reactions - it all made sense and I loved it so much. An interesting thing is that while we kind of get the idea of what is going to happen because of the prologue, the way it all unfolded was never predictable.
Also, the POV choice! It’s mostly Ryan’s perspective, with just a couple of glimpses into Dominic’s, and it made everything hit so much harder. I always feel like the limited insight amplifies the emotional intensity even more.
Now I’m just sitting here wondering how I’m supposed to survive until book two. Because yes, we know there’s a HEA coming, but how?? I am so excited to see how it actually works out, the situation is so complicated that I genuinely can’t imagine the level of grovelling we’re about to get and I need it immediately 😭 preferably yesterday 🥲
I should probably go touch some grass now 🫠
But yeah, one of the best things I’ve read this year 💜
May 4, 2026
Devastating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I don’t really like flashbacks, but as this was what the whole book was comprised of, I grew to like it. Don’t get me wrong, I understand the importance of flashbacks, but I can usually guess exactly what happened with their absence. In this case, knowing what happened in full detail, was an imperative move from Taylor. Ryan was an terrifically written character. He’s timid and yet outspoken, shy, but not as naive as one might think. Being in his brother’s shadow was something he used to negate the fact that Max wasn’t treated as such in his family. I liked this idea, I felt for Max and at the same time grew quickly irritable at his petulance. He was awfully petty at times, too. But I didn’t once not understand where this came from, and neither did Ryan.
Dominic, on the other hand, is brash, arrogant but suprisingly vulnerable and soft. Though, this is only for Ryan. And sometimes Max, too. As a personal preference, I don’t like it when a character is a presented as this “cold” almost “mean” personality, and then completely switches. Taylor did a fantastic job of maintaining an equilibrium between his earlier personality, and the personality he gained through Ryan. I really caught the “He hates everyone but me” vibe because of this. The tension between Ryan and Dominic was intense and the push-and-pull between them was entertaining rather than boring. I loved their relationship, not because it was kinky and obsessive, but because of the vulnerability shared between them. It felt real.
Okay, quick and minor nitpick. And I’m going to try and make this as vague as possible, so as not to spoil anything. The main problem that causes them to “fall-out” was not sufficient to me. I can see why Dominic did what he did, and I too, would do the same thing. On both accounts. My best friend will never not know what’s going on in my life, for the very fact that I deem them my best friend. I can understand why Ryan would be upset, but I don’t think that anyone was wrong in this situation. Perhaps that was what Taylor was aiming at.
Side note: Loved the fact that this was set in England, during A levels, which would remind me that mine are coming up in a weeks time! A level philosophy mention! :) my hometown was also mentioned, too. Felt very at home for the entirety of the book.
In conclusion, I loved this book and I can’t wait for the next! 🫶
I don’t really like flashbacks, but as this was what the whole book was comprised of, I grew to like it. Don’t get me wrong, I understand the importance of flashbacks, but I can usually guess exactly what happened with their absence. In this case, knowing what happened in full detail, was an imperative move from Taylor. Ryan was an terrifically written character. He’s timid and yet outspoken, shy, but not as naive as one might think. Being in his brother’s shadow was something he used to negate the fact that Max wasn’t treated as such in his family. I liked this idea, I felt for Max and at the same time grew quickly irritable at his petulance. He was awfully petty at times, too. But I didn’t once not understand where this came from, and neither did Ryan.
Dominic, on the other hand, is brash, arrogant but suprisingly vulnerable and soft. Though, this is only for Ryan. And sometimes Max, too. As a personal preference, I don’t like it when a character is a presented as this “cold” almost “mean” personality, and then completely switches. Taylor did a fantastic job of maintaining an equilibrium between his earlier personality, and the personality he gained through Ryan. I really caught the “He hates everyone but me” vibe because of this. The tension between Ryan and Dominic was intense and the push-and-pull between them was entertaining rather than boring. I loved their relationship, not because it was kinky and obsessive, but because of the vulnerability shared between them. It felt real.
Okay, quick and minor nitpick. And I’m going to try and make this as vague as possible, so as not to spoil anything. The main problem that causes them to “fall-out” was not sufficient to me. I can see why Dominic did what he did, and I too, would do the same thing. On both accounts. My best friend will never not know what’s going on in my life, for the very fact that I deem them my best friend. I can understand why Ryan would be upset, but I don’t think that anyone was wrong in this situation. Perhaps that was what Taylor was aiming at.
Side note: Loved the fact that this was set in England, during A levels, which would remind me that mine are coming up in a weeks time! A level philosophy mention! :) my hometown was also mentioned, too. Felt very at home for the entirety of the book.
In conclusion, I loved this book and I can’t wait for the next! 🫶
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
4.5⭐️
I received a copy of this book for my honest review.
This is the first book in a duet and should be read first.
Wow, this book was so good. It is heavy on angst and pining, there is a secret relationship, first times, possessive behavior, secrets outside the relationship secret, sibling/twin jealousy, and beware, it ends with a cliffhanger.
Ryan is identical twins with Max. Max and Dominick are best friends, ride or die for eachother. When the 3 were younger, at one point Max and Dom started hanging out with only eachother and excluded Ryan. This lead to a rift between the brothers that takes us to present day of book 1.
At first I thought Ryan was a bit of a jerk. He is introverted and puts up with a lot of bullying but never says anything or sticks up for himself and it makes him bitter. But on reflection, I was reminded often that the boys are only 18, just coming into adulthood, and all these feelings they are feeling are new to them. He feels jealousy over the friendship Max and Dom have, and later as things develop with Ryan and Dom, there is turmoil between the brothers for Dom's attention, for different reasons. I was tearing up a bit near the end when there are a couple big blowouts, and also with a hopefully light at the end of the tunnel with one character specifically. I guess we will find out in the second book.
Book 1 takes place when the boys are 18 with exception of the very beginning and very end, where they are 28. I imagine book 2 will be them as adults.
The way I picked up this book and couldn't put it down. The story for me flowed quickly and easily. There are obviously things that aren't fully explained since it is a duet, like why Max hates Ryan so much, but some of the little mysteries are solved or revealed throughout and even though it does end on a cliffhanger, it is almost like a "to be continued" rather than a "omg what happens next" type of cliffhanger. Most of my unanswered questions revolve around the brothers and their relationship though.
I cannot wait for the next book which releases 15 days after this one.
I received a copy of this book for my honest review.
This is the first book in a duet and should be read first.
Wow, this book was so good. It is heavy on angst and pining, there is a secret relationship, first times, possessive behavior, secrets outside the relationship secret, sibling/twin jealousy, and beware, it ends with a cliffhanger.
Ryan is identical twins with Max. Max and Dominick are best friends, ride or die for eachother. When the 3 were younger, at one point Max and Dom started hanging out with only eachother and excluded Ryan. This lead to a rift between the brothers that takes us to present day of book 1.
At first I thought Ryan was a bit of a jerk. He is introverted and puts up with a lot of bullying but never says anything or sticks up for himself and it makes him bitter. But on reflection, I was reminded often that the boys are only 18, just coming into adulthood, and all these feelings they are feeling are new to them. He feels jealousy over the friendship Max and Dom have, and later as things develop with Ryan and Dom, there is turmoil between the brothers for Dom's attention, for different reasons. I was tearing up a bit near the end when there are a couple big blowouts, and also with a hopefully light at the end of the tunnel with one character specifically. I guess we will find out in the second book.
Book 1 takes place when the boys are 18 with exception of the very beginning and very end, where they are 28. I imagine book 2 will be them as adults.
The way I picked up this book and couldn't put it down. The story for me flowed quickly and easily. There are obviously things that aren't fully explained since it is a duet, like why Max hates Ryan so much, but some of the little mysteries are solved or revealed throughout and even though it does end on a cliffhanger, it is almost like a "to be continued" rather than a "omg what happens next" type of cliffhanger. Most of my unanswered questions revolve around the brothers and their relationship though.
I cannot wait for the next book which releases 15 days after this one.
May 1, 2026
ARC Review
When Dominic dares Ryan to get on his knees for him the last thing he expects is for him to actually do it.
At the start of the book neither of these two seem to get on. Ryan feels shut out by his brother’s friendship with Dominic. Having watched his brother change in front of him and becoming someone that he doesn’t know anymore.
Max is a character I really don’t like. Throughout the entire he seemed to an issue with Ryan and then once Dominic started getting closer to Ryan. He got even worse. I’m aware there’s probably more to this that meets the eye but ooh he made me so mad.
Ryan is such a sweetheart, He notices things that others seem to overlook. That said his heart throughout this story is carrying so much that in parts I wanted to take away the pain he carried. Having been used to being left behind he wants nothing more than to sink in the background and count down the days until he can leave and head to university.
That would have worked perfectly, had the dare never been mentioned. But it had and goodness did it change Ryan and Dominic’s relationship.
Watching them slowly grow more comfortable with each other was beautiful. Their love was something that stayed simmering between them as they explored their relationship.
After 70% things start to change and the emotional pull it has on you starts to get a little more intense. This last 4 chapters were honestly insane and so freakin good 💔💔.
The epilogue 👀 now that was something I didn’t know I needed and I loved it 🩷🩷🩷
This story to me wasn’t really that angsty. Yes, there was some emotional moments where it felt like a knife had pierced my heart. But I wasn’t sobbing or absolutely devastated in parts.
It was a wonderful story and I’ll definitely be reading part 2. I need to know so much more and I want to see if Max redeems himself 👀 cause he’s definitely still not a character I like 😒.
* Review will appear on other platforms*
When Dominic dares Ryan to get on his knees for him the last thing he expects is for him to actually do it.
At the start of the book neither of these two seem to get on. Ryan feels shut out by his brother’s friendship with Dominic. Having watched his brother change in front of him and becoming someone that he doesn’t know anymore.
Max is a character I really don’t like. Throughout the entire he seemed to an issue with Ryan and then once Dominic started getting closer to Ryan. He got even worse. I’m aware there’s probably more to this that meets the eye but ooh he made me so mad.
Ryan is such a sweetheart, He notices things that others seem to overlook. That said his heart throughout this story is carrying so much that in parts I wanted to take away the pain he carried. Having been used to being left behind he wants nothing more than to sink in the background and count down the days until he can leave and head to university.
That would have worked perfectly, had the dare never been mentioned. But it had and goodness did it change Ryan and Dominic’s relationship.
Watching them slowly grow more comfortable with each other was beautiful. Their love was something that stayed simmering between them as they explored their relationship.
After 70% things start to change and the emotional pull it has on you starts to get a little more intense. This last 4 chapters were honestly insane and so freakin good 💔💔.
The epilogue 👀 now that was something I didn’t know I needed and I loved it 🩷🩷🩷
This story to me wasn’t really that angsty. Yes, there was some emotional moments where it felt like a knife had pierced my heart. But I wasn’t sobbing or absolutely devastated in parts.
It was a wonderful story and I’ll definitely be reading part 2. I need to know so much more and I want to see if Max redeems himself 👀 cause he’s definitely still not a character I like 😒.
* Review will appear on other platforms*
May 4, 2026
5 ⭐️
❗️ Part of a series. The book ends with them broken up and it will be continued in the second one. I expect A LOT of groveling in second book, hope to not be disappointed 🤞🏼
I really hope in the second book Max , Ryan's brother, manages to make up for all the shit he put Ryan through, how bad he treated him, how cold and mean he was towards Ryan. Even if I know and kind of understand his reasoning on why he was like that, he could have just discussed with Ryan openly and he could realize there were just misunderstandings between them. But Max pissed me off so much through this book.
Now about Dominic, I started this book not liking him, being on the same list as Max. But he positively surprised me, he changed during the book and he especially changed a lot in a positive way toward Ryan. Even if I could understand his reasoning on his decisions at the end of the book, it still hurt how he lied and went behind Ryan's back for so long. Especially the fact that he told Max about their relationship from the start, so what pissed me off the most is that the whole reason why they kept their relationship hidden, was so Max would not find out. But since he already told Max everything, they could have just been out and be together in public 😵💫. there were some like stupid and childish decisions they took, but they were 18 during that time so kind of makes sense they were not the most mature.
Ryan is absolutely adorable. It was so sad especially in the beginning how much he suffered. How much he suffered because his twin hated him and was so mean to him, while he just wanted them to be close. I liked how he developed through the book and how he became more confident in himself.
I liked a lot how the book was more focused on their relationship and development as people than on the smut side. There were smut scenes and were hot, but not so many to overlook the actual plot.
❗️ Part of a series. The book ends with them broken up and it will be continued in the second one. I expect A LOT of groveling in second book, hope to not be disappointed 🤞🏼
I really hope in the second book Max , Ryan's brother, manages to make up for all the shit he put Ryan through, how bad he treated him, how cold and mean he was towards Ryan. Even if I know and kind of understand his reasoning on why he was like that, he could have just discussed with Ryan openly and he could realize there were just misunderstandings between them. But Max pissed me off so much through this book.
Now about Dominic, I started this book not liking him, being on the same list as Max. But he positively surprised me, he changed during the book and he especially changed a lot in a positive way toward Ryan. Even if I could understand his reasoning on his decisions at the end of the book, it still hurt how he lied and went behind Ryan's back for so long. Especially the fact that he told Max about their relationship from the start, so what pissed me off the most is that the whole reason why they kept their relationship hidden, was so Max would not find out. But since he already told Max everything, they could have just been out and be together in public 😵💫. there were some like stupid and childish decisions they took, but they were 18 during that time so kind of makes sense they were not the most mature.
Ryan is absolutely adorable. It was so sad especially in the beginning how much he suffered. How much he suffered because his twin hated him and was so mean to him, while he just wanted them to be close. I liked how he developed through the book and how he became more confident in himself.
I liked a lot how the book was more focused on their relationship and development as people than on the smut side. There were smut scenes and were hot, but not so many to overlook the actual plot.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First, I want to thank Lark Taylor and The Author Agency for the gifted eARC of Shadows Never Lie to read and provide my honest and spoiler free review.
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My Thoughts:
MM romance has really becoming one of my favorite genres of reading so when I saw this book being promoted, I definitely had to sign up because there was something about Ryan and Dominic’s story that made me curious to know more about them.
My heart went out to both Ryan and Dominic because the more I read their story, the more I understood who they were as people. Seeing Ryan struggle with being the twin who was different than the rest of the mainstream world and then seeing him slowly learn peace with Dominic truly had my heart beating with joy. Dominic also gained my heart, especially with how protective he was with Ryan and after learning Dom’s backstory, I felt even more proud of him for finding happiness in Ryan. They say opposites attract and I really believe they do especially after seeing Ryan and Dominic in this first part of the Shadow Duet.
I felt like it was perfectly done, especially for following two young adult teens who had no idea how intimacy worked and seeing them learn and explore their own feelings with one another was so beautiful to see. Being as young as they were, I think the author did a great job at bringing the emotions to an all time high, whether they were good or bad emotions. I feel like Ryan and Dominic still have a lot to learn about each other after reading this story and I think we will get all the answers we need once the second part of the duet comes out. I also really love the nickname Shadow. There is just something about it that tugs on my heartstrings every time. And that epilogue….yes definitely consider me invested in seeing how Ryan and Dominic’s story concludes in the next book.
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My Thoughts:
MM romance has really becoming one of my favorite genres of reading so when I saw this book being promoted, I definitely had to sign up because there was something about Ryan and Dominic’s story that made me curious to know more about them.
My heart went out to both Ryan and Dominic because the more I read their story, the more I understood who they were as people. Seeing Ryan struggle with being the twin who was different than the rest of the mainstream world and then seeing him slowly learn peace with Dominic truly had my heart beating with joy. Dominic also gained my heart, especially with how protective he was with Ryan and after learning Dom’s backstory, I felt even more proud of him for finding happiness in Ryan. They say opposites attract and I really believe they do especially after seeing Ryan and Dominic in this first part of the Shadow Duet.
I felt like it was perfectly done, especially for following two young adult teens who had no idea how intimacy worked and seeing them learn and explore their own feelings with one another was so beautiful to see. Being as young as they were, I think the author did a great job at bringing the emotions to an all time high, whether they were good or bad emotions. I feel like Ryan and Dominic still have a lot to learn about each other after reading this story and I think we will get all the answers we need once the second part of the duet comes out. I also really love the nickname Shadow. There is just something about it that tugs on my heartstrings every time. And that epilogue….yes definitely consider me invested in seeing how Ryan and Dominic’s story concludes in the next book.
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