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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
64 people are currently reading
546 people want to read
About the author
Lark Taylor
34 books1,303 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 155 reviews
May 2, 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.
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)
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.
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
✨️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 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
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 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.
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.
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 💜
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*
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.
April 28, 2026
✨ARC review✨
🖤 Shadows Never Lie by Lark Taylor 🖤
“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 f*ck all. You’re mine, and I’ll be back to claim you. Just you f*cking wait and see.”
uh.. CAN I HAVE PART 2 NOW?? plz? 🥺 im so invested in Dom and Ryan’s relationship, it’s unhealthy.
so.. i love a good ‘brothers best friend’ type of story, but add in the fact that the brothers are TWINS with some serious sibling rivalry going on, the MC’s dislike (maybe even hate) each other at first, and a double bi-awakening occurs that starts with an unexpected deal… whew. i ate this up, no crumbs left. a six star read for sure ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dominic is besties with Max. Max is Ryan’s twin. Ryan is basically shunned from hanging out with them because he’s the ‘nerdy’ twin and basically gets the short end of the stick for EVERYTHING. one day, Dom sees bruises on Ryan after getting beat up at school and he proposes a deal; if Ryan gives him a BJ, he’ll offer his protection in return. Dom doesn’t think he’ll actually do it - he’s the golden, goodie two-shoes twin, why would he? but both of their worlds are flipped upside down when Ryan actually does it. Dom follows through on his promise to protect Ryan from others, but what happens when he ends up being the one to hurt him most of all? 💔
i truly hope in this next book that Max shows some growth and stops hating on Ryan so much, or imma scream. some of the things he said made me straight up CRY.
some tidbits:
🖤 double bi-awakening
🖤 brothers best friend
🖤 “Shadow” 🥺
🖤 angsty af
🖤 a total ‘sketch me like one of your French girls’ moment
🖤 blueberry muffins 🫐
🖤 enemies to lovers
🖤 only one bed (but nobody’s complaining 😏)
🖤 part 1 of duet
🖤 Shadows Never Lie by Lark Taylor 🖤
“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 f*ck all. You’re mine, and I’ll be back to claim you. Just you f*cking wait and see.”
uh.. CAN I HAVE PART 2 NOW?? plz? 🥺 im so invested in Dom and Ryan’s relationship, it’s unhealthy.
so.. i love a good ‘brothers best friend’ type of story, but add in the fact that the brothers are TWINS with some serious sibling rivalry going on, the MC’s dislike (maybe even hate) each other at first, and a double bi-awakening occurs that starts with an unexpected deal… whew. i ate this up, no crumbs left. a six star read for sure ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dominic is besties with Max. Max is Ryan’s twin. Ryan is basically shunned from hanging out with them because he’s the ‘nerdy’ twin and basically gets the short end of the stick for EVERYTHING. one day, Dom sees bruises on Ryan after getting beat up at school and he proposes a deal; if Ryan gives him a BJ, he’ll offer his protection in return. Dom doesn’t think he’ll actually do it - he’s the golden, goodie two-shoes twin, why would he? but both of their worlds are flipped upside down when Ryan actually does it. Dom follows through on his promise to protect Ryan from others, but what happens when he ends up being the one to hurt him most of all? 💔
i truly hope in this next book that Max shows some growth and stops hating on Ryan so much, or imma scream. some of the things he said made me straight up CRY.
some tidbits:
🖤 double bi-awakening
🖤 brothers best friend
🖤 “Shadow” 🥺
🖤 angsty af
🖤 a total ‘sketch me like one of your French girls’ moment
🖤 blueberry muffins 🫐
🖤 enemies to lovers
🖤 only one bed (but nobody’s complaining 😏)
🖤 part 1 of duet
Review of advance copy received from Author
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Shadows Never Lie by Lark Taylor is the first part in the Shadow Duet. Ryan has accepted that college is not his time to shine. He is fine laying low to get through exams until he can truly find himself in university. If only his twin brother Max’s best friend Dominic would get the message. After being roughed up Ryan finds himself being propositioned by Dominic, protection for favors. Dominic assumes he’s just pushing Ryan’s buttons but when the two end up exploring something new together, it is unexpected but so good. Unfortunately Ryan’s future looks very different then Dominic’s and time is running out for them to explore their new found relationship. Leaving was always in the cards but causing heartbreak was something neither man expected.
Well this one hits you right in the heart from the start. With a bit of timeline jumping to adjust to I couldn’t help but be enamored by Ryan and Dominic. Both men find themselves with new found feelings to explore and find unexpected comfort in each other. Ryan struggles at first to see Dominic outside of the boy who stole his twin brother’s affection while Dominic struggles with the strong connection he feels with Ryan. They are on a rollercoaster trying to understand their feelings while giving into the chemistry that burns between them. I cannot wait until the next book where these men are forced to face their past and the future that is built around a life without each other.
His gaze met mine and suddenly that sensation was back – the one in my throat that made it near impossible to breathe. The smile he gave me had the feeling spreading to my chest. I’d never seen him smile like that at anyone before. Not at any of the girls he touted around. Not even Max. It was new. Fragile. Beautiful.
5 stars for Ryan and Dominic’s fiery and rocky past.
Shadows Never Lie by Lark Taylor is the first part in the Shadow Duet. Ryan has accepted that college is not his time to shine. He is fine laying low to get through exams until he can truly find himself in university. If only his twin brother Max’s best friend Dominic would get the message. After being roughed up Ryan finds himself being propositioned by Dominic, protection for favors. Dominic assumes he’s just pushing Ryan’s buttons but when the two end up exploring something new together, it is unexpected but so good. Unfortunately Ryan’s future looks very different then Dominic’s and time is running out for them to explore their new found relationship. Leaving was always in the cards but causing heartbreak was something neither man expected.
Well this one hits you right in the heart from the start. With a bit of timeline jumping to adjust to I couldn’t help but be enamored by Ryan and Dominic. Both men find themselves with new found feelings to explore and find unexpected comfort in each other. Ryan struggles at first to see Dominic outside of the boy who stole his twin brother’s affection while Dominic struggles with the strong connection he feels with Ryan. They are on a rollercoaster trying to understand their feelings while giving into the chemistry that burns between them. I cannot wait until the next book where these men are forced to face their past and the future that is built around a life without each other.
His gaze met mine and suddenly that sensation was back – the one in my throat that made it near impossible to breathe. The smile he gave me had the feeling spreading to my chest. I’d never seen him smile like that at anyone before. Not at any of the girls he touted around. Not even Max. It was new. Fragile. Beautiful.
5 stars for Ryan and Dominic’s fiery and rocky past.
May 1, 2026
No longer in the shadows
Lark Taylor has outdone herself with SHADOWS NEVER LIE, book #1 in the Shadows Duet . From the moment I started reading I was trapped, completely ensnared by the emotions, the characters, the storyline ... Lark's words were simply exquisite.
Dominic Walker was his twin brother's best friend, but that didn't stop Ryan Davies from crushing on him, even though Dominic often ignored him. Ryan was such a beautiful person, he had a tender heart and didn't deserve what he suffered. Dominic was the opposite to Ryan, he was a cocky guy who dominated over others. I didn't think much of him in the beginning, especially how he and Max (Ryan's twin) treated him, but as the story progressed, and his story was told, I began to fall for him.
Ryan and Dominic's characters grew immensely during the course of their story, their hearts were worn on their sleeves, and their emotions were honest. I loved watching their connection grow and their relationship deepen. Keeping their relationship a secret was essential, so their stolen and forbidden moments were precious. Unfortunately there was a secret being hidden, one which was going to be devastating when it is revealed, one which would break hearts.
I cannot praise this book highly enough. I've read most of Lark's books, and this would have to be one of her best, and it is only part one of two! It was a rollercoaster of emotions, had me on the edge of my seat, and completelyunputdownable (except when addulting interrupted). The Prologue and Epilogue occur ten years after the main story, Ryan and Dominic live have changed during those ten years, and I cannot wait to find out what occurs in the next part of their story, Shadows Never Leave .
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
Lark Taylor has outdone herself with SHADOWS NEVER LIE, book #1 in the Shadows Duet . From the moment I started reading I was trapped, completely ensnared by the emotions, the characters, the storyline ... Lark's words were simply exquisite.
Dominic Walker was his twin brother's best friend, but that didn't stop Ryan Davies from crushing on him, even though Dominic often ignored him. Ryan was such a beautiful person, he had a tender heart and didn't deserve what he suffered. Dominic was the opposite to Ryan, he was a cocky guy who dominated over others. I didn't think much of him in the beginning, especially how he and Max (Ryan's twin) treated him, but as the story progressed, and his story was told, I began to fall for him.
Ryan and Dominic's characters grew immensely during the course of their story, their hearts were worn on their sleeves, and their emotions were honest. I loved watching their connection grow and their relationship deepen. Keeping their relationship a secret was essential, so their stolen and forbidden moments were precious. Unfortunately there was a secret being hidden, one which was going to be devastating when it is revealed, one which would break hearts.
I cannot praise this book highly enough. I've read most of Lark's books, and this would have to be one of her best, and it is only part one of two! It was a rollercoaster of emotions, had me on the edge of my seat, and completelyunputdownable (except when addulting interrupted). The Prologue and Epilogue occur ten years after the main story, Ryan and Dominic live have changed during those ten years, and I cannot wait to find out what occurs in the next part of their story, Shadows Never Leave .
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Lark and The Author Agency for the eARC — releases May 1st!
Yeah… we’ve got another 5 star read on our hands.
I don’t normally start an unfinished duet because I hate being left hanging… but this one?? It called to me—and now I’m sitting here like how the hell is this going to be fixed?? because book two is going to have to WORK.
This is a brother’s best friend romance with twins Ryan and Max, and Dominic being Max’s best friend—and the dynamic is messy from the start. Ryan and Max do not have a good relationship, and that tension bleeds into everything, especially anything involving Dominic.
And then you add in the connection between Ryan and Dom… yeah.
It shouldn’t happen. It really shouldn’t happen.
But the soulmate potential between them?? It’s there. From the very beginning. And it just makes everything hurt more.
The angst in this book is that quieter kind—the kind that just sits in your chest and slowly builds. The stolen moments between classes, the quick touches, the locked doors… all of it feels secretive and fragile and like it could fall apart at any second.
And the pain?? It just oozes through every part of this story. The relationships, the setting, the history—it all stacks on top of each other and makes what’s happening between Ryan and Dominic feel even more intense.
But that last 20%???
Yeah… that’s where everything shifts.
It takes everything you thought you understood and just elevates it. I was completely locked in, heart racing, already dreading the wait for book two.
This book is full of tension, longing, and that sweet, aching angst that just lingers.
I’m not okay… and I need the conclusion immediately. 🖤
Yeah… we’ve got another 5 star read on our hands.
I don’t normally start an unfinished duet because I hate being left hanging… but this one?? It called to me—and now I’m sitting here like how the hell is this going to be fixed?? because book two is going to have to WORK.
This is a brother’s best friend romance with twins Ryan and Max, and Dominic being Max’s best friend—and the dynamic is messy from the start. Ryan and Max do not have a good relationship, and that tension bleeds into everything, especially anything involving Dominic.
And then you add in the connection between Ryan and Dom… yeah.
It shouldn’t happen. It really shouldn’t happen.
But the soulmate potential between them?? It’s there. From the very beginning. And it just makes everything hurt more.
The angst in this book is that quieter kind—the kind that just sits in your chest and slowly builds. The stolen moments between classes, the quick touches, the locked doors… all of it feels secretive and fragile and like it could fall apart at any second.
And the pain?? It just oozes through every part of this story. The relationships, the setting, the history—it all stacks on top of each other and makes what’s happening between Ryan and Dominic feel even more intense.
But that last 20%???
Yeah… that’s where everything shifts.
It takes everything you thought you understood and just elevates it. I was completely locked in, heart racing, already dreading the wait for book two.
This book is full of tension, longing, and that sweet, aching angst that just lingers.
I’m not okay… and I need the conclusion immediately. 🖤
Review of advance copy
Ryan obsessed over Dominic. Even when he wasn’t, he was still obsessing. He blamed Dominic for stealing his twin Max, for pushing him into the shadows, for making him feel like he just didn’t exist, hell, his own mom probably loved Dominic more than him. A childish way to feel. Until one night changed everything. Ryan was still obsessing but now his obsession becomes very unsure, very new, and oh so incredibly intense.
This story is told mostly from Ryan’s point of view which felt limiting. Dominic’s feelings towards Ryan seemed to appear out of nowhere and without his thoughts to lead the way it felt like something was missing at times. Their times together were furtive, hormone induced, bouts of wild feelings with body parts fully engaged.
The first book in the duet portrays both Ryan and Dominic as teenage boys and the angst was on full display. Throw in the other teenage boy and it was over the top.
The beginning of the book takes place ten years into future. The author gave us a man who felt cold and detached. Then we were introduced to the boy that became that man. His story was heartbreaking. I thought the author did a good job of showing Ryan’s growth through pain.
This review took a while to write. I couldn’t find the words to express how deeply their story touched me but at the same time just wished they would just pull it together for each other.
The author is hit or miss for me. This time i felt it was a near miss. The four star rating doesn’t really reflect how I felt about this book. Instead it’s a wish that book two will “make it all better”.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
This story is told mostly from Ryan’s point of view which felt limiting. Dominic’s feelings towards Ryan seemed to appear out of nowhere and without his thoughts to lead the way it felt like something was missing at times. Their times together were furtive, hormone induced, bouts of wild feelings with body parts fully engaged.
The first book in the duet portrays both Ryan and Dominic as teenage boys and the angst was on full display. Throw in the other teenage boy and it was over the top.
The beginning of the book takes place ten years into future. The author gave us a man who felt cold and detached. Then we were introduced to the boy that became that man. His story was heartbreaking. I thought the author did a good job of showing Ryan’s growth through pain.
This review took a while to write. I couldn’t find the words to express how deeply their story touched me but at the same time just wished they would just pull it together for each other.
The author is hit or miss for me. This time i felt it was a near miss. The four star rating doesn’t really reflect how I felt about this book. Instead it’s a wish that book two will “make it all better”.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
Review of advance copy received from Author
°ARC review°
AAAAAAAAAAH. Here is my honest opinion.
Nah, more seriously, I want to say how grateful I am to have received my first ARC from Lark. She has been one of my favorite authors for so long. I have read all her books, and I am always looking forward to every new one.
Why, you would ask? Well, that’s simple: Lark has a way of making me FEEL things. I can’t count how many times I cried, laughed, and got angry because of her books.
The proof is that I read this book in only 5/6 hours. I ATE IT. Barely took a break. So thank you, Lark, from the bottom of my heart.
About the book, FIRST, the next one can’t come fast enough. I’m starving for them and their story.
The first few pages, I was so angry at how unfair the whole situation was, how Ryan took and took and took and just kept quiet.
But without even realising it, I started forgiving Dominic (not Max though, I still kind of ggggrrrr at him, he better do better in book two). After a few chapters of me forgiving Dominic, I understood how powerful—and also (HOW THE HELL?)—Lark’s words are.
Because I swear I hated him two chapters before. It still doesn’t make sense to me.
Their story continued, and I ended up sobbing, so thank you for that. I had biiiig tears coming out of my eyes. Silent crying is not pretty. I raged and got my heart broken with them.
And I’m thankful we know it’s an HEA because daaaaaaamn, I had doubts at some points.
I can’t wait for book 2. And sorry for the very long review, but the book deserves even more.
AAAAAAAAAAH. Here is my honest opinion.
Nah, more seriously, I want to say how grateful I am to have received my first ARC from Lark. She has been one of my favorite authors for so long. I have read all her books, and I am always looking forward to every new one.
Why, you would ask? Well, that’s simple: Lark has a way of making me FEEL things. I can’t count how many times I cried, laughed, and got angry because of her books.
The proof is that I read this book in only 5/6 hours. I ATE IT. Barely took a break. So thank you, Lark, from the bottom of my heart.
About the book, FIRST, the next one can’t come fast enough. I’m starving for them and their story.
The first few pages, I was so angry at how unfair the whole situation was, how Ryan took and took and took and just kept quiet.
But without even realising it, I started forgiving Dominic (not Max though, I still kind of ggggrrrr at him, he better do better in book two). After a few chapters of me forgiving Dominic, I understood how powerful—and also (HOW THE HELL?)—Lark’s words are.
Because I swear I hated him two chapters before. It still doesn’t make sense to me.
Their story continued, and I ended up sobbing, so thank you for that. I had biiiig tears coming out of my eyes. Silent crying is not pretty. I raged and got my heart broken with them.
And I’m thankful we know it’s an HEA because daaaaaaamn, I had doubts at some points.
I can’t wait for book 2. And sorry for the very long review, but the book deserves even more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Shadows Never Lie is a fantastic first part of the Shadow Duet that focuses on the friendship and eventual relationship between Ryan and Dominic. These two are absolutely perfect for one another. I love the slow-burn aspect of their relationship, which surprises both of them with their mutual attraction and feelings for one another.
The fact that Dominic is Ryan's twin brother and Max's best friend, and that Ryan's growing friendship with Dominic only deepens Max's existing animosity toward Ryan, adds another layer of tension. These three have a fascinating dynamic, and watching Ryan and Dominic slowly gravitate towards one another in a very natural way made for a brilliant story that I could not get enough of.
Overall, this is a highly emotional story where timing and communication are everything. I love how most of the story takes place ten years before the prologue, which gives you Ryan and Dominic's backstory and the reason for their ten-year separation, making their eventual reunion full of tension, unspoken attraction, and complete devotion to one another, even if it comes from a darker place.
I cannot wait to see how Dominic grovels and wins back Ryan's affections because he really made a mess of everything. Hopefully, there can be some redemption for Max as well. He was quite vindictive and cruel in this story, and I hope that gets rectified. Overall, there is a lot left to be explored with these characters, and I cannot wait for their eventual HEA.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
The fact that Dominic is Ryan's twin brother and Max's best friend, and that Ryan's growing friendship with Dominic only deepens Max's existing animosity toward Ryan, adds another layer of tension. These three have a fascinating dynamic, and watching Ryan and Dominic slowly gravitate towards one another in a very natural way made for a brilliant story that I could not get enough of.
Overall, this is a highly emotional story where timing and communication are everything. I love how most of the story takes place ten years before the prologue, which gives you Ryan and Dominic's backstory and the reason for their ten-year separation, making their eventual reunion full of tension, unspoken attraction, and complete devotion to one another, even if it comes from a darker place.
I cannot wait to see how Dominic grovels and wins back Ryan's affections because he really made a mess of everything. Hopefully, there can be some redemption for Max as well. He was quite vindictive and cruel in this story, and I hope that gets rectified. Overall, there is a lot left to be explored with these characters, and I cannot wait for their eventual HEA.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
Review of advance copy
Shadows Never Lie is book one in the Shadows duet. This brother’s best friend MM romance story is about Ryan and Dominic.
Wow, this book had me hooked from the start. It was one of those that I didn’t want to put down. Ryan used to be close to his identical twin brother Max, but that changed when Dominic came in the picture. Max and Dominic became best friends and left Ryan out. At eighteen, we see them navigate their way through their last year of school before going off to uni or onto other adventures. One night Ryan did not back down from a challenge Dominic gave him, changing everything between them.
Ryan and Dominic were both surprised by their attraction and feelings for each other. They didn’t give in at first, but boy did I love it when they finally did. I enjoyed seeing them fall for each other, but I knew it was going to hurt that much more when things didn’t work out.
I was so completely invested in this story that I didn’t want it to end. I absolutely adored Ryan, and my heart broke for him after what happened with Dominic and Max. I am still so mad at Max and what he said to Ryan, and I am disappointed and hurt with Dominic. I don’t know how I am supposed to move on from that ending and patiently wait for book two. I need to know how Dominic is going to fix things and I hope Max can redeem himself as well. I do trust this author and know all the pain and heartbreak will be worth it, and I look forward to Ryan and Dominic getting their HEA.
What you can expect:
Brother’s Best Friend
Enemies To Lovers
Double Bi-Awakening
Opposites Attract
Virgin MC
Angst
I received an advanced copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
Wow, this book had me hooked from the start. It was one of those that I didn’t want to put down. Ryan used to be close to his identical twin brother Max, but that changed when Dominic came in the picture. Max and Dominic became best friends and left Ryan out. At eighteen, we see them navigate their way through their last year of school before going off to uni or onto other adventures. One night Ryan did not back down from a challenge Dominic gave him, changing everything between them.
Ryan and Dominic were both surprised by their attraction and feelings for each other. They didn’t give in at first, but boy did I love it when they finally did. I enjoyed seeing them fall for each other, but I knew it was going to hurt that much more when things didn’t work out.
I was so completely invested in this story that I didn’t want it to end. I absolutely adored Ryan, and my heart broke for him after what happened with Dominic and Max. I am still so mad at Max and what he said to Ryan, and I am disappointed and hurt with Dominic. I don’t know how I am supposed to move on from that ending and patiently wait for book two. I need to know how Dominic is going to fix things and I hope Max can redeem himself as well. I do trust this author and know all the pain and heartbreak will be worth it, and I look forward to Ryan and Dominic getting their HEA.
What you can expect:
Brother’s Best Friend
Enemies To Lovers
Double Bi-Awakening
Opposites Attract
Virgin MC
Angst
I received an advanced copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
5⭐️
I’m actually not okay😭😭 because what do you mean I have to wait for book 2?? Even if it’s coming soon, I’m still not prepared.
I really loved that this book shows the before of a second-chance romance. Knowing where things end up from the start and then going back to see how everything unfolds just made it hit so much harder. The beginning?? insane. And the ending??? yeah… I’m still not over it.
Ryan and Dominic both felt so real to me. I genuinely loved them in different ways, and I could understand both of their sides, which made everything even more emotional.
Ryan
Oml Dominic I care about him a lot, but at the same time I was just sitting there like why would you do that. I could understand where he was coming from, but it still hurt.
I don’t want to say too much because of spoilers, but that ending… I expected parts of it, but it still completely got to me. I fully understood Ryan, and it just made everything even more painful.
I also really liked the family dynamics but oml Max was pmo. The whole “golden child vs black sheep” situation was so interesting, especially because it’s not as simple as it seems. I’m really hoping we get more of that in the next book, especially when it comes to Max and his relationship with Ryan.
Overall, this was such an emotional read. The character dynamics, the tension, and the way the relationship grows over time all felt so real and messy in the best way.
And now I just need book 2 immediately.
****
Thank you to The Author Agency for the advance copy. This review reflects my honest thoughts.
I’m actually not okay😭😭 because what do you mean I have to wait for book 2?? Even if it’s coming soon, I’m still not prepared.
I really loved that this book shows the before of a second-chance romance. Knowing where things end up from the start and then going back to see how everything unfolds just made it hit so much harder. The beginning?? insane. And the ending??? yeah… I’m still not over it.
Ryan and Dominic both felt so real to me. I genuinely loved them in different ways, and I could understand both of their sides, which made everything even more emotional.
Ryan
Oml Dominic I care about him a lot, but at the same time I was just sitting there like why would you do that. I could understand where he was coming from, but it still hurt.
I don’t want to say too much because of spoilers, but that ending… I expected parts of it, but it still completely got to me. I fully understood Ryan, and it just made everything even more painful.
I also really liked the family dynamics but oml Max was pmo. The whole “golden child vs black sheep” situation was so interesting, especially because it’s not as simple as it seems. I’m really hoping we get more of that in the next book, especially when it comes to Max and his relationship with Ryan.
Overall, this was such an emotional read. The character dynamics, the tension, and the way the relationship grows over time all felt so real and messy in the best way.
And now I just need book 2 immediately.
****
Thank you to The Author Agency for the advance copy. This review reflects my honest thoughts.
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