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Desperate Lies
Not yet published
Expected 7 Jul 26What if the best night of your life happened to be with your best friend’s dad?
Diana Marchetti
After twenty-one years under my father’s control, I’m finally breaking free. And that first night of freedom? I spend it at Delirium, the most exclusive sex club in London.
It’s masquerade night, and what could be more freeing than anonymous, mind-blowing sex with a handsome stranger? It’s the best I’ve ever had, with a man I’ll never forget.
But my freedom comes at a price.
My father throws me out and cuts me off. I have no choice but to move in with my best friend.
The only problem is, she doesn’t live alone.
The man she lives with?
Her dad. My secret one night stand.
He has no idea who I am, and I’m determined to keep it that way.
But when tensions rise between us, I wonder if this is one secret I cannot keep.
Desperate Lies is a standalone, full-length, age gap, best friend’s dad romance starring a billionaire male lead and a feisty younger heroine.
Diana Marchetti
After twenty-one years under my father’s control, I’m finally breaking free. And that first night of freedom? I spend it at Delirium, the most exclusive sex club in London.
It’s masquerade night, and what could be more freeing than anonymous, mind-blowing sex with a handsome stranger? It’s the best I’ve ever had, with a man I’ll never forget.
But my freedom comes at a price.
My father throws me out and cuts me off. I have no choice but to move in with my best friend.
The only problem is, she doesn’t live alone.
The man she lives with?
Her dad. My secret one night stand.
He has no idea who I am, and I’m determined to keep it that way.
But when tensions rise between us, I wonder if this is one secret I cannot keep.
Desperate Lies is a standalone, full-length, age gap, best friend’s dad romance starring a billionaire male lead and a feisty younger heroine.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication July 7, 2026
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Review of advance copy received from Author
First off this book isn’t a 5 star read it’s a 6 star! I didn’t put this book down at all it’s that good.
Rae is one of my favourite indie authors. Her writing draws you in as if you are right there alongside the characters, you feel what they feel and sometimes that 🥵🥵.
This is the first book in the new series Kings of London and follows Diana and Rafe. If you’re new to Rae and want more background on why Diana is running out the hotel at the beginning then check out the Hawkston Billionaire series - the last book explains everything - however you don’t need to read it in order to follow this.
We start at the moment Diana is running out of the hotel jumping in to a cab to escape her dad’s anger after basically doing a runway bride calling off her arranged marriage to Seb Hawkston. She heads to the most exclusive s*x club in London and meets Rafe. It’s masquerade night so everyone has masks. Whilst Rafe removes his, he fails to get Diana to remove hers. She not only comes across super confident propositioning him she puts on the southern American sweetheart accent of her mother. This leads to the most mind blowing s*x either has had. However she is clear one night, no repeats, no names and no numbers. Rafe does manage to put his number in her purse but she doesn’t call.
Diana is now cut off financially and her planned career has been sabotaged by her father after the fallout. Struggling and living in a less than ideal flat her best friend Lizzie offers her to move in to her appointment. Reluctantly she accepts and moves into the penthouse of one of the most luxurious buildings in London. Only lizzie didn’t say she lived with her dad and he is no other than super sexy, hot as hell, best s*x of her life Rafe! He however doesn’t recognise her.
What follows is one of the most romantically frustrating relationship where neither can acknowledge their feelings. The stolen glances, fingers brushing against an arm or leg and let’s not forget one hell of a 🔥 content creation has you on the edge of your seat wanting more only for them to shake out of the moment and go their separate ways.
Diana is a hopeless romantic she wants to be swept off her feet in a swoon worthy moment like the ones she reads in her beloved romance books. She wants Rafe and he wants her but neither want to hurt Lizzie.
You won’t regret reading this but you will definitely be wanting more 😉
Rae is one of my favourite indie authors. Her writing draws you in as if you are right there alongside the characters, you feel what they feel and sometimes that 🥵🥵.
This is the first book in the new series Kings of London and follows Diana and Rafe. If you’re new to Rae and want more background on why Diana is running out the hotel at the beginning then check out the Hawkston Billionaire series - the last book explains everything - however you don’t need to read it in order to follow this.
We start at the moment Diana is running out of the hotel jumping in to a cab to escape her dad’s anger after basically doing a runway bride calling off her arranged marriage to Seb Hawkston. She heads to the most exclusive s*x club in London and meets Rafe. It’s masquerade night so everyone has masks. Whilst Rafe removes his, he fails to get Diana to remove hers. She not only comes across super confident propositioning him she puts on the southern American sweetheart accent of her mother. This leads to the most mind blowing s*x either has had. However she is clear one night, no repeats, no names and no numbers. Rafe does manage to put his number in her purse but she doesn’t call.
Diana is now cut off financially and her planned career has been sabotaged by her father after the fallout. Struggling and living in a less than ideal flat her best friend Lizzie offers her to move in to her appointment. Reluctantly she accepts and moves into the penthouse of one of the most luxurious buildings in London. Only lizzie didn’t say she lived with her dad and he is no other than super sexy, hot as hell, best s*x of her life Rafe! He however doesn’t recognise her.
What follows is one of the most romantically frustrating relationship where neither can acknowledge their feelings. The stolen glances, fingers brushing against an arm or leg and let’s not forget one hell of a 🔥 content creation has you on the edge of your seat wanting more only for them to shake out of the moment and go their separate ways.
Diana is a hopeless romantic she wants to be swept off her feet in a swoon worthy moment like the ones she reads in her beloved romance books. She wants Rafe and he wants her but neither want to hurt Lizzie.
You won’t regret reading this but you will definitely be wanting more 😉
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advance copy received from Author
Desperate Lies was such an enjoyable surprise and another reminder of why I love Rae Ryder's books.
What I especially loved was that it felt like a completely different and self-contained story from the Hawkston series, while still existing within the same world. Readers familiar with Hawkston will appreciate the connection, while newcomers can easily dive into this story on its own.
At the heart of the book are Diana Marchetti and Rafe Bastion, whose romance is packed with some of my favorite tropes: a delicious age gap (21 and 36), best friend's dad, grumpy x sunshine, billionaire hero, and enough yearning to keep the pages turning. Diana's career as a book influencer added a fun and modern touch to the story, while Rafe was exactly the kind of brooding, protective, and irresistibly grumpy hero I love reading about.
The story also gave me strong Cinderella vibes, which I particularly enjoyed. There is a lovely fairy-tale quality to the romance, but without losing the emotional depth, chemistry, and charm that make Rae Ryder's books so engaging. The tension between Diana and Rafe builds beautifully, and every stolen glance and moment of longing felt earned.
And then there's the masquerade night at the sex club—an unforgettable scene that perfectly balances mystery, tension, and scorching chemistry. It was one of those moments where the attraction between the characters practically jumps off the page.
A couple of other scenes immediately became highlights for me. The rain-dancing scene was absolutely delightful, bringing a sense of freedom and joy that made me smile throughout. The library scene was equally wonderful and felt tailor-made for book lovers. Both moments carried a kind of magic that made them stand out and will probably stay with me the longest.
Overall, Desperate Lies is a captivating blend of romance, longing, forbidden attraction, and fairy-tale charm. If you enjoy age-gap romances, billionaire heroes, best friend's dad dynamics, grumpy x sunshine pairings, and characters whose chemistry burns from the very first page, Diana and Rafe's story is definitely worth picking up. I couldn't put it down :-).
Desperate Lies was such an enjoyable surprise and another reminder of why I love Rae Ryder's books.
What I especially loved was that it felt like a completely different and self-contained story from the Hawkston series, while still existing within the same world. Readers familiar with Hawkston will appreciate the connection, while newcomers can easily dive into this story on its own.
At the heart of the book are Diana Marchetti and Rafe Bastion, whose romance is packed with some of my favorite tropes: a delicious age gap (21 and 36), best friend's dad, grumpy x sunshine, billionaire hero, and enough yearning to keep the pages turning. Diana's career as a book influencer added a fun and modern touch to the story, while Rafe was exactly the kind of brooding, protective, and irresistibly grumpy hero I love reading about.
The story also gave me strong Cinderella vibes, which I particularly enjoyed. There is a lovely fairy-tale quality to the romance, but without losing the emotional depth, chemistry, and charm that make Rae Ryder's books so engaging. The tension between Diana and Rafe builds beautifully, and every stolen glance and moment of longing felt earned.
And then there's the masquerade night at the sex club—an unforgettable scene that perfectly balances mystery, tension, and scorching chemistry. It was one of those moments where the attraction between the characters practically jumps off the page.
A couple of other scenes immediately became highlights for me. The rain-dancing scene was absolutely delightful, bringing a sense of freedom and joy that made me smile throughout. The library scene was equally wonderful and felt tailor-made for book lovers. Both moments carried a kind of magic that made them stand out and will probably stay with me the longest.
Overall, Desperate Lies is a captivating blend of romance, longing, forbidden attraction, and fairy-tale charm. If you enjoy age-gap romances, billionaire heroes, best friend's dad dynamics, grumpy x sunshine pairings, and characters whose chemistry burns from the very first page, Diana and Rafe's story is definitely worth picking up. I couldn't put it down :-).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2026
*Honest review by a reader for an advanced early copy*
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
First off let me just say Rae Ryder is that girl will always be that girl. I’ve had the privilege to read your other stories, and every time you increase the ratings more and more .
This book follows our lovely FMC who if you have not read the previous series by our author - is the runaway bride who decided her daddy issues needed correcting (and honestly? Go off girl). This leaves our FMC in a rut when she is cut off from her family. Moving in with her friend she realized the one nightstand at a sex club was in-fact her best-friend’s dad.
This book had fun tropes including best-friend’s dad, billionaire, age gap.
My review :
I genuinely enjoyed this book. I think it’s one of few authors who I can just vibe and go with whatever they’re doing or saying. Girl came out with spice IMMEDIATELY and I was not complaining AT. ALL. I love our two characters. I feel like many will resonate with her because 1) daddy issues 2) book worm (HELLOOO literally us besties) I like that she is able to really shine in her elements. Some things did show her immaturity in which she rushes into something damning the consequences. But that’s where our steamy new fave daddy comes in (our MMC). Our MMC was almost like an anchor to our girl - where she dives in he’s like girl what let’s plan this.
I wish I could see more intense emotional moments where we see our girl Lizzie riding for her bestie so we could understand the FMC guilt. I wish I could see more angst in that department. More tense moments between them all there. The ending definitely gave us that but would have been a bit better to see intermittently and see their dynamic of friendship!
The forbidden identity while enjoyable did drag a bit but nothing that would come off as a reason to stop reading. It played a bit long but tasteful enough where the book itself was enjoyable and worth it!
The ending was everything to me “dance with me?” SWOON. I also love the callback to previous characters from the previous series world!
This book was a light - enjoyable story and one I’ll likely swing back to read when it’s officially out - because ofc imma be recommending this to all my billionaire forbidden romance girlies!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
First off let me just say Rae Ryder is that girl will always be that girl. I’ve had the privilege to read your other stories, and every time you increase the ratings more and more .
This book follows our lovely FMC who if you have not read the previous series by our author - is the runaway bride who decided her daddy issues needed correcting (and honestly? Go off girl). This leaves our FMC in a rut when she is cut off from her family. Moving in with her friend she realized the one nightstand at a sex club was in-fact her best-friend’s dad.
This book had fun tropes including best-friend’s dad, billionaire, age gap.
My review :
I genuinely enjoyed this book. I think it’s one of few authors who I can just vibe and go with whatever they’re doing or saying. Girl came out with spice IMMEDIATELY and I was not complaining AT. ALL. I love our two characters. I feel like many will resonate with her because 1) daddy issues 2) book worm (HELLOOO literally us besties) I like that she is able to really shine in her elements. Some things did show her immaturity in which she rushes into something damning the consequences. But that’s where our steamy new fave daddy comes in (our MMC). Our MMC was almost like an anchor to our girl - where she dives in he’s like girl what let’s plan this.
I wish I could see more intense emotional moments where we see our girl Lizzie riding for her bestie so we could understand the FMC guilt. I wish I could see more angst in that department. More tense moments between them all there. The ending definitely gave us that but would have been a bit better to see intermittently and see their dynamic of friendship!
The forbidden identity while enjoyable did drag a bit but nothing that would come off as a reason to stop reading. It played a bit long but tasteful enough where the book itself was enjoyable and worth it!
The ending was everything to me “dance with me?” SWOON. I also love the callback to previous characters from the previous series world!
This book was a light - enjoyable story and one I’ll likely swing back to read when it’s officially out - because ofc imma be recommending this to all my billionaire forbidden romance girlies!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
An absolute PHENOMENAL read by Rae Ryder! I was expecting to love this due to how much I adored the Hawkston Billionaire series but this surpassed my expectations!
21 year old Diana is finally stepping out from underneath her father's thumb after a disastrous forced engagement, and what better way to celebrate than a night masquerading in an exclusive sex club with a man who absolutely ruins her?
After being cut off financially Diana is convinced to stay with her bestfriend Lizzy until she's back on her feet. Imagine her surprise when not only does her friend live with her dad still but he's the stranger who was the best s*x of her life! Unable to tell him who she is, Diana pretends she doesn't know Rage as intimately as she does.
Rafe is a workaholic who has no time for women, except his 18yo daughter Lizzy. After being convinced by his friends to live a little, he attends a masquerade that changed his life, the woman wants nothing more to do with him afyer one night but he's desperate to find her. Months of trying leads nowhere but he's also found himself gravitating towards Diana. A woman who not only lives in his home but is so far out of bounds he can't do anything about it. Not only is she 21 but Lizzys bestfriend. But helping Diana get her business off the floor bring them impossibly closer.
Rafe is perfect. I mean he gives the boufriend treatment before he even really knows her. He was kind, understanding, honest and selfless in the things he done.
Diana and Rafe are one of the most frustratingly nonrelationship relationship I've ever read. The yearning on both sides had me literally trying to manifest a reveal half way through the book. Neither would admit their feelings in fear of hurting Lizzy and Diana was terrified of her secret being discovered. The morning swims, the 'accidental' touches, the kitchen dance and not forgetting the content creating. The whole book is highlight worthy.
Can not waitntonsee what Rae does with the rest of the series!
21 year old Diana is finally stepping out from underneath her father's thumb after a disastrous forced engagement, and what better way to celebrate than a night masquerading in an exclusive sex club with a man who absolutely ruins her?
After being cut off financially Diana is convinced to stay with her bestfriend Lizzy until she's back on her feet. Imagine her surprise when not only does her friend live with her dad still but he's the stranger who was the best s*x of her life! Unable to tell him who she is, Diana pretends she doesn't know Rage as intimately as she does.
Rafe is a workaholic who has no time for women, except his 18yo daughter Lizzy. After being convinced by his friends to live a little, he attends a masquerade that changed his life, the woman wants nothing more to do with him afyer one night but he's desperate to find her. Months of trying leads nowhere but he's also found himself gravitating towards Diana. A woman who not only lives in his home but is so far out of bounds he can't do anything about it. Not only is she 21 but Lizzys bestfriend. But helping Diana get her business off the floor bring them impossibly closer.
Rafe is perfect. I mean he gives the boufriend treatment before he even really knows her. He was kind, understanding, honest and selfless in the things he done.
Diana and Rafe are one of the most frustratingly nonrelationship relationship I've ever read. The yearning on both sides had me literally trying to manifest a reveal half way through the book. Neither would admit their feelings in fear of hurting Lizzy and Diana was terrified of her secret being discovered. The morning swims, the 'accidental' touches, the kitchen dance and not forgetting the content creating. The whole book is highlight worthy.
Can not waitntonsee what Rae does with the rest of the series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rae Ryder did a great job creating the character you can’t help but hate with a vengeance. Mr. Marchetti is vile, despicable, controlling, and manipulative abuser. I cringed every time he appears on the page.
In contrast, Diana is a sweet, drop dead gorgeous, motivated and talented young influencer and the unfortunate eldest daughter of Marchetti. When Diana leaves her rich fiancé that her father arranged, Mr. Marchetti strips away her livelihood. Fortunately, Diana has the kindest best friend who invites her to move in with her.
Rafe is a workaholic, billionaire and doting father. He is really nice, smart, supportive, attractive and a DILF.
Diana ends up moving in with her best friend, Lizzie and her father, Rafe. Except she has met him before. In fact, she is very well acquainted with him. 😱 😂 He is the Handsome Stranger but he does not know she is the Beautiful Stranger. The banter between Handsome Stranger and Beautiful Stranger is fun and flirty. It leaves both sides pining for more.
The relationship that develops between Diana and Rafe is both beautiful and agonizingly painful to watch. This is an age gap and best friend’s dad/ daughter’s best friend story. Of course there are some eleventh hour drama. The resolution between Lizzie and Rafe was so sweet and funny. And the one between Rafe and Diana is just romantic. The supporting characters were interesting too. Aside from pausing to take a breath every time Mr. Marchetti appeared, I devoured this book.
Lastly, I want to express my deepest gratitude to Rae Ryder for providing me with the ARC. I am very excited to be among the first readers to read and voluntarily share an unbiased review.
Desperate Lies by Rae Ryder
📕4.25⭐️3🌶️
TROPES/ THEMES: daddy issues, arranged marriage, disinherited, best friend’s dad/daughter’s best friend , age gap 21/36, mentor/mentee, masquerade, s3x club
In contrast, Diana is a sweet, drop dead gorgeous, motivated and talented young influencer and the unfortunate eldest daughter of Marchetti. When Diana leaves her rich fiancé that her father arranged, Mr. Marchetti strips away her livelihood. Fortunately, Diana has the kindest best friend who invites her to move in with her.
Rafe is a workaholic, billionaire and doting father. He is really nice, smart, supportive, attractive and a DILF.
Diana ends up moving in with her best friend, Lizzie and her father, Rafe. Except she has met him before. In fact, she is very well acquainted with him. 😱 😂 He is the Handsome Stranger but he does not know she is the Beautiful Stranger. The banter between Handsome Stranger and Beautiful Stranger is fun and flirty. It leaves both sides pining for more.
The relationship that develops between Diana and Rafe is both beautiful and agonizingly painful to watch. This is an age gap and best friend’s dad/ daughter’s best friend story. Of course there are some eleventh hour drama. The resolution between Lizzie and Rafe was so sweet and funny. And the one between Rafe and Diana is just romantic. The supporting characters were interesting too. Aside from pausing to take a breath every time Mr. Marchetti appeared, I devoured this book.
Lastly, I want to express my deepest gratitude to Rae Ryder for providing me with the ARC. I am very excited to be among the first readers to read and voluntarily share an unbiased review.
Desperate Lies by Rae Ryder
📕4.25⭐️3🌶️
TROPES/ THEMES: daddy issues, arranged marriage, disinherited, best friend’s dad/daughter’s best friend , age gap 21/36, mentor/mentee, masquerade, s3x club
Review of advance copy
4.5 ✨
This was a gem, the bookish touch, the angst, the romance, even the business side was amazing!
Both Rafe and Diana were stubborn with their attraction, not wanting to hurt Lizzie or asume that the other was in the same page. And that made for great tension, the build up was crazy and I just wanted them to kiss.
I have to admit, the secret identity aspect, while fun in the beginning dragged a bit. I would have loved for it to be more of a present point of the plot than part of the resolution. I wanted it revealed earlier, to make for more angst and tension, but the reveal was absolutely fantastic and I ate up the whole moment.
I do have to say, Rafe was just it. This man was giving her the dream before even truly having feelings for her. He was selfless, kind, honest and caring. Helping her with anything out of the goodness of his heart, and while his attraction to her physically was part of the package, the love he felt for her as a whole was the selling point. I love this man.
Diana made me love her and even then I still find myself a little mad at her. Her past was so much on her that I understand her completely, I still wish she’d been more selfish in the end. I wanted her romantic lover to truly shine with Rafe and I missed that feeling, it felt like he was more in love than her at points and that’s my only complaint.
This is looking like a great beginning to a new series and I’ll make sure to go back and check out the previous books…because Seb alone convinced me to.
Rae, thank you so very much for this early copy. I loved meeting Diana and Rafe and I cannot wait to see where we land next.
This was a gem, the bookish touch, the angst, the romance, even the business side was amazing!
Both Rafe and Diana were stubborn with their attraction, not wanting to hurt Lizzie or asume that the other was in the same page. And that made for great tension, the build up was crazy and I just wanted them to kiss.
I have to admit, the secret identity aspect, while fun in the beginning dragged a bit. I would have loved for it to be more of a present point of the plot than part of the resolution. I wanted it revealed earlier, to make for more angst and tension, but the reveal was absolutely fantastic and I ate up the whole moment.
I do have to say, Rafe was just it. This man was giving her the dream before even truly having feelings for her. He was selfless, kind, honest and caring. Helping her with anything out of the goodness of his heart, and while his attraction to her physically was part of the package, the love he felt for her as a whole was the selling point. I love this man.
Diana made me love her and even then I still find myself a little mad at her. Her past was so much on her that I understand her completely, I still wish she’d been more selfish in the end. I wanted her romantic lover to truly shine with Rafe and I missed that feeling, it felt like he was more in love than her at points and that’s my only complaint.
This is looking like a great beginning to a new series and I’ll make sure to go back and check out the previous books…because Seb alone convinced me to.
Rae, thank you so very much for this early copy. I loved meeting Diana and Rafe and I cannot wait to see where we land next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’m old school when I read — I take notes, underline, scribble in margins. But with Desperate Lies, I didn’t take a single note. Not because there wasn’t anything to capture, but because Diana and Rafe had my full attention from the very first chapter. Their connection is immediate, intense, and impossible to look away from.
I do recommend reading Worth Every Moment first. It sets up Diana’s backstory beautifully and adds emotional weight to her journey. That said, it’s not required — Desperate Lies stands strong on its own.
What really hooked me was the relationship complexity. Diana’s struggle to navigate family dynamics felt authentic and layered, and I found myself deeply invested in her choices, her hesitations, and her growth. Watching her balance loyalty, identity, and desire made her story feel grounded and relatable.
And then there’s Rafe. Every girl needs a Rafe — steady, compelling, and the perfect match for Diana’s fire. Their emotional connection stays front and center, and the romantic tension between them stays strong throughout the book without ever overwhelming the story.
❤️ Why It Worked for Me
Strong character chemistry that starts instantly and never fades
Emotional depth that makes you root for both characters
Family dynamics that add richness and realism
Romantic intensity that feels earned, not forced
If you want a romance that grabs you early, keeps you invested, and delivers both heart and heat in a balanced, satisfying way, Desperate Lies is absolutely worth the read.
I do recommend reading Worth Every Moment first. It sets up Diana’s backstory beautifully and adds emotional weight to her journey. That said, it’s not required — Desperate Lies stands strong on its own.
What really hooked me was the relationship complexity. Diana’s struggle to navigate family dynamics felt authentic and layered, and I found myself deeply invested in her choices, her hesitations, and her growth. Watching her balance loyalty, identity, and desire made her story feel grounded and relatable.
And then there’s Rafe. Every girl needs a Rafe — steady, compelling, and the perfect match for Diana’s fire. Their emotional connection stays front and center, and the romantic tension between them stays strong throughout the book without ever overwhelming the story.
❤️ Why It Worked for Me
Strong character chemistry that starts instantly and never fades
Emotional depth that makes you root for both characters
Family dynamics that add richness and realism
Romantic intensity that feels earned, not forced
If you want a romance that grabs you early, keeps you invested, and delivers both heart and heat in a balanced, satisfying way, Desperate Lies is absolutely worth the read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow what a ride, I think Rafe is my new favourite after Seb and Matt! But let’s just say this there is a little of Diana in all of us book nerds. She is young, alone and thrust into the world after cutting off her arranged marriage to a man she didn’t love, a transaction that was part of a business deal orchestrated by her father.
Diana then takes herself to a private club to relieve some “tension” having the best night of her life with a mystery man.
The relationship between Diana and Rafe builds and the pair battle with their taboo relationship behind closed doors which is made harder by the fact Diana realises who Rafe is (without dropping spoilers)
The flow of this story is great, engaging heartfelt and keeps you in the feels. The obvious connection but the tension as both try to dismiss the feelings is obvious throughout but Dianas sense of humour really got me and seeing Rafe’s softer side was a treat for the reader, there is just something about hot dads!
Plot 📜📜📜📜📜 the story kept me engaged and I read the book in less than 24h
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️ they meet in a se* club so it goes without saying there is definitely spice but not too much to take away from the story
Overall ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5* read, a perfect balance and well written story.
I have had the pleasure of receiving an advanced reader copy of this book and this does not distract from my honesty in this review, I have read all of Rae’s books and found this to be one of my favourites so far. She just gets better and better.
Diana then takes herself to a private club to relieve some “tension” having the best night of her life with a mystery man.
The relationship between Diana and Rafe builds and the pair battle with their taboo relationship behind closed doors which is made harder by the fact Diana realises who Rafe is (without dropping spoilers)
The flow of this story is great, engaging heartfelt and keeps you in the feels. The obvious connection but the tension as both try to dismiss the feelings is obvious throughout but Dianas sense of humour really got me and seeing Rafe’s softer side was a treat for the reader, there is just something about hot dads!
Plot 📜📜📜📜📜 the story kept me engaged and I read the book in less than 24h
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️ they meet in a se* club so it goes without saying there is definitely spice but not too much to take away from the story
Overall ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5* read, a perfect balance and well written story.
I have had the pleasure of receiving an advanced reader copy of this book and this does not distract from my honesty in this review, I have read all of Rae’s books and found this to be one of my favourites so far. She just gets better and better.
June 26, 2026
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first time reading something by Rae Ryder and I absolutely loved it. I have added her other series Hawkston Billionaires to my TBR pile.
Parts of the book I saw events coming however, the book blew me away and kept me thinking the whole time. Loved the angst and longing between MCs. Heart broke for Diana and how her family, especially her father treats her, and loved how Rafe showed her quietly how she should be treated.
There was a good level of spice, even though I honestly thought there would be more originally expecting them to be sneaking around for months, rather than fighting it and burying their feelings which made the storyline a whole lot sweeter. The way the characters built up for the FMC from strong and knowing what she wants, to unconfident and determined, for the MMC not wanting to explore relationships to longing and obsessing over someone he shouldn’t want. Their characters are meant to be together and I am glad Lizzie didn’t make them feel guilty for wanting each other upon her return home and encouraged Rafe to get Diana back.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It has left me wanting more! I loved the comedy parts and the turmoil parts, especially some of those inner thoughts!
I’m excited to read the bonus chapter upon formal release date. Can’t wait for what comes next, hoping my suspicions about characters are correct.
This was my first time reading something by Rae Ryder and I absolutely loved it. I have added her other series Hawkston Billionaires to my TBR pile.
Parts of the book I saw events coming however, the book blew me away and kept me thinking the whole time. Loved the angst and longing between MCs. Heart broke for Diana and how her family, especially her father treats her, and loved how Rafe showed her quietly how she should be treated.
There was a good level of spice, even though I honestly thought there would be more originally expecting them to be sneaking around for months, rather than fighting it and burying their feelings which made the storyline a whole lot sweeter. The way the characters built up for the FMC from strong and knowing what she wants, to unconfident and determined, for the MMC not wanting to explore relationships to longing and obsessing over someone he shouldn’t want. Their characters are meant to be together and I am glad Lizzie didn’t make them feel guilty for wanting each other upon her return home and encouraged Rafe to get Diana back.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It has left me wanting more! I loved the comedy parts and the turmoil parts, especially some of those inner thoughts!
I’m excited to read the bonus chapter upon formal release date. Can’t wait for what comes next, hoping my suspicions about characters are correct.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved Desperate Lies. Rae Ryder has become one of those authors whose books I can pick up without even reading the blurb because she always delivers addictive romance, great chemistry, and characters that pull me in from the very first chapter.
The plot is engaging, built around a forbidden and complicated relationship that keeps the tension high the entire time. There are so many moments where you know things could unravel at any second, and that constant anticipation made it impossible for me to put the book down. The story strikes a great balance between steamy romance, emotional depth, and just enough drama to keep the pages turning.
The characters were definitely my favorite part. Diana is such a strong and relatable heroine. She's trying to find her independence and figure out who she is, and I loved watching her grow throughout the story. The male lead is exactly the kind of romance hero Rae Ryder writes so well—protective, intense, and impossible not to fall for. Their chemistry is off the charts, and every interaction between them is filled with tension, emotion, and undeniable attraction.
If you enjoy forbidden relationships, age-gap romances, and characters with incredible chemistry, this book is definitely worth picking up. Rae Ryder once again proved why she's one of my favorite authors, and I can't wait to read more from her.
The plot is engaging, built around a forbidden and complicated relationship that keeps the tension high the entire time. There are so many moments where you know things could unravel at any second, and that constant anticipation made it impossible for me to put the book down. The story strikes a great balance between steamy romance, emotional depth, and just enough drama to keep the pages turning.
The characters were definitely my favorite part. Diana is such a strong and relatable heroine. She's trying to find her independence and figure out who she is, and I loved watching her grow throughout the story. The male lead is exactly the kind of romance hero Rae Ryder writes so well—protective, intense, and impossible not to fall for. Their chemistry is off the charts, and every interaction between them is filled with tension, emotion, and undeniable attraction.
If you enjoy forbidden relationships, age-gap romances, and characters with incredible chemistry, this book is definitely worth picking up. Rae Ryder once again proved why she's one of my favorite authors, and I can't wait to read more from her.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you for the ARC opportunity Rae 🥰
There’s nothing more to say then WOW! What a start to the series and I honestly think that this is the perfect book for the Kings of London series.
If you haven’t already met Diana, you can do so by reading Book 4 - Worth Every Moment in the Hawkston Billionaires series. You can read as a standalone but I think it would really help understand the beginning as the story starts with Diana running (won’t give anymore away!)
Running leaves Diana with nothing and needing to forget an encounter at a masquerade event in s3x club just does that. Although she didn’t think she would run into him again…
Enter Rafe Bastion, best friends dad - he is everything and more but on meeting each other reluctant to cave into their feelings.
Diana loves her romance books and dreams of the scenes she reads about💕 this book doesn’t disappoint with the spice 🌶️ the HEA is just perfect for these two.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I read within 24 hours. It has left me wanting more! I loved the comedy parts, especially some of those inner thoughts!💭
Can’t wait for what comes next in the series and if you haven’t read the Hawkston series then I highly recommend you do 💕
There’s nothing more to say then WOW! What a start to the series and I honestly think that this is the perfect book for the Kings of London series.
If you haven’t already met Diana, you can do so by reading Book 4 - Worth Every Moment in the Hawkston Billionaires series. You can read as a standalone but I think it would really help understand the beginning as the story starts with Diana running (won’t give anymore away!)
Running leaves Diana with nothing and needing to forget an encounter at a masquerade event in s3x club just does that. Although she didn’t think she would run into him again…
Enter Rafe Bastion, best friends dad - he is everything and more but on meeting each other reluctant to cave into their feelings.
Diana loves her romance books and dreams of the scenes she reads about💕 this book doesn’t disappoint with the spice 🌶️ the HEA is just perfect for these two.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I read within 24 hours. It has left me wanting more! I loved the comedy parts, especially some of those inner thoughts!💭
Can’t wait for what comes next in the series and if you haven’t read the Hawkston series then I highly recommend you do 💕
Review of advance copy received from Author
"I rode his hand like a jockey, and now, here it is, wrapped around mine in the most civil of handshakes." 😂
I'm a total Rae Ryder fangirl at this point, so I went into this one with high expectations and somehow it still managed to exceed them. 🥰 I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy and ended up reading the entire thing on my train commute in a single day because I simply could not put it down. 🩷
Rafe and Diana were everything I wanted them to be. The chemistry was instant, the tension was delicious and the best friend's dad dynamic had me completely hooked from the start. 🥵 There were moments that had me grinning like an idiot, blushing in public and feeling every emotion right alongside the characters. 🌧️
I also loved the little cameos from the Hawkston Billionaire series. It felt like being rewarded for reading the earlier books and made the whole world feel even richer. Another fantastic read from Rae Ryder and now I'm already desperate to know whose story is next!
Tropes :
💲Billionaire
💟 Best Friend’s Dad
🦁 Possessive Alpha MMC
🥰 Age Gap (15 years)
🏠 Forced Proximity
🎭 Masked One Night Stand
🩷 Will-they-won’t-they angst and tension that will have you kicking your feet and squealing at your kindle
I'm a total Rae Ryder fangirl at this point, so I went into this one with high expectations and somehow it still managed to exceed them. 🥰 I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy and ended up reading the entire thing on my train commute in a single day because I simply could not put it down. 🩷
Rafe and Diana were everything I wanted them to be. The chemistry was instant, the tension was delicious and the best friend's dad dynamic had me completely hooked from the start. 🥵 There were moments that had me grinning like an idiot, blushing in public and feeling every emotion right alongside the characters. 🌧️
I also loved the little cameos from the Hawkston Billionaire series. It felt like being rewarded for reading the earlier books and made the whole world feel even richer. Another fantastic read from Rae Ryder and now I'm already desperate to know whose story is next!
Tropes :
💲Billionaire
💟 Best Friend’s Dad
🦁 Possessive Alpha MMC
🥰 Age Gap (15 years)
🏠 Forced Proximity
🎭 Masked One Night Stand
🩷 Will-they-won’t-they angst and tension that will have you kicking your feet and squealing at your kindle
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved that this book pick in the fall out of Worth Every Moment (before the epilogue) and the hits just keep on coming for Diana.
Leaving behind her father, a broken engagement, and a LOT of drama, she goes out for a night at a highly exclusive adult club ... and falls right in the arms of Rafe. Her best friend's dad.
She doesn't know that until later, when they're living together because her bestie invites her to come stay while she gets her life back on track.
The drama? Delicious. The tension? Spectacular. The yearning? Phenomenal.
This is the kind of book I eat up with a shovel, not a spoon, a shovel.
Rafe is a fantastic man. Giving, kind, considerate, thoughtful, and boy can he GET DOWN.
Diana is coming into her own after having had some truly horrific parents and a childhood I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy.
They're both driven, smart, and independent people who are capable of being happy on their own but are superb together.
I love their dynamic.
And I love the way they push each other.
And push each other's buttons.
This was just so fun to read and the spicey scenes? Lord have mercy - so hot.
I can't wait to see what's up for the next King of London!
Leaving behind her father, a broken engagement, and a LOT of drama, she goes out for a night at a highly exclusive adult club ... and falls right in the arms of Rafe. Her best friend's dad.
She doesn't know that until later, when they're living together because her bestie invites her to come stay while she gets her life back on track.
The drama? Delicious. The tension? Spectacular. The yearning? Phenomenal.
This is the kind of book I eat up with a shovel, not a spoon, a shovel.
Rafe is a fantastic man. Giving, kind, considerate, thoughtful, and boy can he GET DOWN.
Diana is coming into her own after having had some truly horrific parents and a childhood I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy.
They're both driven, smart, and independent people who are capable of being happy on their own but are superb together.
I love their dynamic.
And I love the way they push each other.
And push each other's buttons.
This was just so fun to read and the spicey scenes? Lord have mercy - so hot.
I can't wait to see what's up for the next King of London!
June 19, 2026
4.75 ⭐️ rounded up!
“i shouldn’t spend as much time thinking about her as i do. it’s all wrong. and yet, i don’t stop. i can’t.”
oh how i loved rafe and diana. i was absolutely obsessed from the first chapter. the way the met the first time had me sweating, and the way they met the second time had me giggling.
diana was such a beautiful and strong character who knew what she wanted out of life and didn’t let her family hold her back despite the circumstances they put her in. i admired her so much for that.
rafe was delicious and i was obsessed with the way he hated to want diana. he tortured himself the perfect amount and i was salivating for it. i would really do anything to hear him say “please” in that sexy voice of his one more time, though.
i’ll absolutely be back for the extended epilogue on release day!
thank you so much to rae for the e-arc! can’t wait to see what’s next in this series <3
♛ age gap
♛ hidden identity
♛ billionaire mmc
♛ forced proximity
♛ best friend’s dad
“i shouldn’t spend as much time thinking about her as i do. it’s all wrong. and yet, i don’t stop. i can’t.”
oh how i loved rafe and diana. i was absolutely obsessed from the first chapter. the way the met the first time had me sweating, and the way they met the second time had me giggling.
diana was such a beautiful and strong character who knew what she wanted out of life and didn’t let her family hold her back despite the circumstances they put her in. i admired her so much for that.
rafe was delicious and i was obsessed with the way he hated to want diana. he tortured himself the perfect amount and i was salivating for it. i would really do anything to hear him say “please” in that sexy voice of his one more time, though.
i’ll absolutely be back for the extended epilogue on release day!
thank you so much to rae for the e-arc! can’t wait to see what’s next in this series <3
♛ age gap
♛ hidden identity
♛ billionaire mmc
♛ forced proximity
♛ best friend’s dad
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved Rafe and Diana’s story! From the moment Diana recognised who Rafe was, I was completely invested. Watching it slowly dawn on Rafe why he felt such a strong connection to Diana was beautifully written and made their romance even more satisfying.
As always, Rae’s writing is incredible. I was completely immersed in the story from start to finish and ended up reading it in a single sitting. The chemistry, emotion, and character development were perfectly balanced.
Henry and Julian provided some fantastic comedic relief throughout the book, and I loved every scene they were in. It was also great to catch up with Seb and Erica and get a glimpse of how they’re doing.
This was a fantastic start to the series, and I cannot wait to see what comes next.
Read if you love:
🩷 Age-gap romance
🖤 Found family
🩷 Spice club 🌶️
🖤 FMC with a controlling family
🩷 Protective MMC
🖤 Emotional romance with great banter
I received an arc copy of this book and I’m leaving my review voluntarily.
As always, Rae’s writing is incredible. I was completely immersed in the story from start to finish and ended up reading it in a single sitting. The chemistry, emotion, and character development were perfectly balanced.
Henry and Julian provided some fantastic comedic relief throughout the book, and I loved every scene they were in. It was also great to catch up with Seb and Erica and get a glimpse of how they’re doing.
This was a fantastic start to the series, and I cannot wait to see what comes next.
Read if you love:
🩷 Age-gap romance
🖤 Found family
🩷 Spice club 🌶️
🖤 FMC with a controlling family
🩷 Protective MMC
🖤 Emotional romance with great banter
I received an arc copy of this book and I’m leaving my review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Rae for the ARC!
“I’m not going to stay here and let you love me.”
Diana has finally escaped her controlling father. After the most unforgettable night of her life at London's most exclusive sex club, she arrives home to find that she's been cut off from everything. Moving in with her best friend Lizzie, she tries to rebuild her life from scratch. There’s just one problem, Lizzie's dad is the man she's been unable to forget since *that* night at Delerium. Although he doesn't recognise her, it's clear that there's a spark—but getting close could hurt the most important person in both their lives. Can they maintain their distance, or will they risk crossing a line they can't undo?
I should definitely not have read this on my morning commute🥵. A slow-burner, close proximity storyline with plenty of spice. You can feel the chemistry and frustrations intensifying throughout. The stolen glances, arm brushes and alone moments had me hooked. I’m so pleased this is going to be a series, I definitely want to read more of this.
“I’m not going to stay here and let you love me.”
Diana has finally escaped her controlling father. After the most unforgettable night of her life at London's most exclusive sex club, she arrives home to find that she's been cut off from everything. Moving in with her best friend Lizzie, she tries to rebuild her life from scratch. There’s just one problem, Lizzie's dad is the man she's been unable to forget since *that* night at Delerium. Although he doesn't recognise her, it's clear that there's a spark—but getting close could hurt the most important person in both their lives. Can they maintain their distance, or will they risk crossing a line they can't undo?
I should definitely not have read this on my morning commute🥵. A slow-burner, close proximity storyline with plenty of spice. You can feel the chemistry and frustrations intensifying throughout. The stolen glances, arm brushes and alone moments had me hooked. I’m so pleased this is going to be a series, I definitely want to read more of this.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received an ARC from the author, thank you!
I've enjoyed everything I've read from this author so far and this story didn't disappoint. I loved the crossover with characters from The Hawkston series. It is a standalone story, but reading the previous books just gives the background for Diana and the relationship with her Dad.
I'm not normally a fan of the 'best friend's Dad' storyline but this one was done really well. It reads like great care was taken for this to be about the main characters yearning from afar and their relationship building rather than betrayal of the friendship.
The supporting characters are great and hopefully future books will follow their stories.
I loved the nod to books and romance. Doesn't everyone want to dance and be kissed in the rain with their love.
Rae has a way of creating characters who are easy to relate to (in an emotional way, not £££££ obvs!) and follow. Devouring the books in no time at all. A guaranteed good time.
I've enjoyed everything I've read from this author so far and this story didn't disappoint. I loved the crossover with characters from The Hawkston series. It is a standalone story, but reading the previous books just gives the background for Diana and the relationship with her Dad.
I'm not normally a fan of the 'best friend's Dad' storyline but this one was done really well. It reads like great care was taken for this to be about the main characters yearning from afar and their relationship building rather than betrayal of the friendship.
The supporting characters are great and hopefully future books will follow their stories.
I loved the nod to books and romance. Doesn't everyone want to dance and be kissed in the rain with their love.
Rae has a way of creating characters who are easy to relate to (in an emotional way, not £££££ obvs!) and follow. Devouring the books in no time at all. A guaranteed good time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Rae Ryder for providing this ARC for an honest review.
I loved everything about this book. The characters, the tension, the spice, the growth. Chef's Kiss
I won't lie, I was a little worried that this series wouldn't live up to the Hawkston Billionaires series, but I am so glad I was wrong! This book did not disappoint!
Rafe is a single dad who has always put his daughter first in every thought he's ever had. Diana is tired of being stuck under her father's tyrannical rule and wants to live her life on her own terms.
Diana's character growth was undoubtedly my favourite part of this book. Despite having Rafe, who could make all her problems go away if she just asked, she buckled down and worked her butt off to become independent so that she wouldn't have to rely on someone else ever again.
This book is definitely in my top 3 favourite books of the year! I cannot wait to see what more Rae Ryder has in store for us with her next books.
I loved everything about this book. The characters, the tension, the spice, the growth. Chef's Kiss
I won't lie, I was a little worried that this series wouldn't live up to the Hawkston Billionaires series, but I am so glad I was wrong! This book did not disappoint!
Rafe is a single dad who has always put his daughter first in every thought he's ever had. Diana is tired of being stuck under her father's tyrannical rule and wants to live her life on her own terms.
Diana's character growth was undoubtedly my favourite part of this book. Despite having Rafe, who could make all her problems go away if she just asked, she buckled down and worked her butt off to become independent so that she wouldn't have to rely on someone else ever again.
This book is definitely in my top 3 favourite books of the year! I cannot wait to see what more Rae Ryder has in store for us with her next books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Obsessed, this book was the perfect start of a new series. The tension, the angst, the love and all the feelings in between. I was invested from the start!
Rafe might be a new favourite MC, the small things, the way he comes alive throughout the book. The inner fight to not feel the way he did? Perfection 🤌
Diana, she had my heart from the start, I loved that she had lizzie & her support. I loved seeing her story of her growing for herself but accepting help, let’s be honest she is living our dream, her passion for her job comes through so well!
Overall, absolutely loved this book, so excited to see what comes next. Did not want this book to end, the plot was perfect, the most perfect couple with the added drama & the spice was hot! 🥵 highly recommend!
Thank you Rae for this ARC, all opinions are my own.
Rafe might be a new favourite MC, the small things, the way he comes alive throughout the book. The inner fight to not feel the way he did? Perfection 🤌
Diana, she had my heart from the start, I loved that she had lizzie & her support. I loved seeing her story of her growing for herself but accepting help, let’s be honest she is living our dream, her passion for her job comes through so well!
Overall, absolutely loved this book, so excited to see what comes next. Did not want this book to end, the plot was perfect, the most perfect couple with the added drama & the spice was hot! 🥵 highly recommend!
Thank you Rae for this ARC, all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advanced copy from author
⭐️ 4.5 Stars ⭐️
Desperate Lies was my first book by Rae Ryder, and it definitely won't be my last.
As a fan of a good slow-burn romance, this book delivered exactly what I was looking for. The best friend's dad trope can be tricky to pull off, but Ryder handled it well, building the tension and chemistry gradually rather than rushing the relationship.
I really enjoyed the emotional depth and how invested I became in Diana and Rafe. The connection felt genuine, and I found myself rooting for them from the start.
If you enjoy age-gap romance, best friend's dad tropes, and plenty of slow-burn tension, I highly recommend Desperate Lies. This was a fantastic introduction to Rae Ryder's work, and I'm excited to read more from her in the future.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
⭐️ 4.5 Stars ⭐️
Desperate Lies was my first book by Rae Ryder, and it definitely won't be my last.
As a fan of a good slow-burn romance, this book delivered exactly what I was looking for. The best friend's dad trope can be tricky to pull off, but Ryder handled it well, building the tension and chemistry gradually rather than rushing the relationship.
I really enjoyed the emotional depth and how invested I became in Diana and Rafe. The connection felt genuine, and I found myself rooting for them from the start.
If you enjoy age-gap romance, best friend's dad tropes, and plenty of slow-burn tension, I highly recommend Desperate Lies. This was a fantastic introduction to Rae Ryder's work, and I'm excited to read more from her in the future.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book completely exceeded my expectations! From the very first chapter, I was hooked and couldn’t put it down. The chemistry between the main characters was absolutely incredible, and every interaction had me eagerly turning the pages for more.
The emotional depth, witty banter, and perfectly balanced tension made this such an addictive read. I loved how the characters felt authentic and layered, making it easy to become invested in their journey. The pacing was excellent, and there was never a dull moment.
Without giving anything away, if you’re looking for a romance that delivers all the feels, unforgettable characters, and keeps you thinking about it long after you’ve finished, this is definitely one to add to your TBR.
Thank you to the author for the ARC. It was an absolute pleasure to read, and I can’t wait to see what they write next!
This book completely exceeded my expectations! From the very first chapter, I was hooked and couldn’t put it down. The chemistry between the main characters was absolutely incredible, and every interaction had me eagerly turning the pages for more.
The emotional depth, witty banter, and perfectly balanced tension made this such an addictive read. I loved how the characters felt authentic and layered, making it easy to become invested in their journey. The pacing was excellent, and there was never a dull moment.
Without giving anything away, if you’re looking for a romance that delivers all the feels, unforgettable characters, and keeps you thinking about it long after you’ve finished, this is definitely one to add to your TBR.
Thank you to the author for the ARC. It was an absolute pleasure to read, and I can’t wait to see what they write next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Every time I pick up a Rae Ryder book I fall in love with her writing. I end up laughing, crying, gut-wrenched and swooning. It’s such a great combination of emotions and that’s exactly what I look for in a book.
Rafe and Diana shouldn’t work right? She’s best friend with his daughter. And he’s the man she had a no strings one night stand.
The things I loved about this book is the great chemistry these two have. The age gap is set in a balanced way between their two personalities. It’s there but it’s not overwhelming one way or the other.
There are moments of fun, moments of punch in the gut feels and then those moments when you’re fanning yourself from the spiciness!
I literally read this in a weekend. The pacing of the story is so easy to devour I literally found myself marathoning my way to an all night finish. It was that good!
Rafe and Diana shouldn’t work right? She’s best friend with his daughter. And he’s the man she had a no strings one night stand.
The things I loved about this book is the great chemistry these two have. The age gap is set in a balanced way between their two personalities. It’s there but it’s not overwhelming one way or the other.
There are moments of fun, moments of punch in the gut feels and then those moments when you’re fanning yourself from the spiciness!
I literally read this in a weekend. The pacing of the story is so easy to devour I literally found myself marathoning my way to an all night finish. It was that good!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Desperate Lies by Rae Ryder 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
One of those books where you tell yourself "one more chapter" and suddenly it's 2 a.m. I was fully invested from start to finish & I cannot wait for more in the Kings of London Series.
Diana runs from a forced engagement & from her father's control, escaping to a $ex club where she has a one night only masked encounter with Rafe.
Planning to recreate the social media presence that her father ripped from her, best friend Lizze offers her a place to stay from the musty apartment she is renting to a Penthouse in London.....that's when she sees him! She knows him, but he doesn't know her.
Definitely recommend if you love forced proximity, best friends dad and she is a book content creator so very much like us loves the romance of it all. 📚✨
One of those books where you tell yourself "one more chapter" and suddenly it's 2 a.m. I was fully invested from start to finish & I cannot wait for more in the Kings of London Series.
Diana runs from a forced engagement & from her father's control, escaping to a $ex club where she has a one night only masked encounter with Rafe.
Planning to recreate the social media presence that her father ripped from her, best friend Lizze offers her a place to stay from the musty apartment she is renting to a Penthouse in London.....that's when she sees him! She knows him, but he doesn't know her.
Definitely recommend if you love forced proximity, best friends dad and she is a book content creator so very much like us loves the romance of it all. 📚✨
June 26, 2026
To say this book starts out hot would be an understatement! This book starts off steamy and amazing! Diana is running from her father who wants her to marry for his benefit so she runs to the local sex club and has a one night masked scene with a tall dark and handsome man. After her amazing night she finds out her dad has kicked her out of her home and she is down on her luck when her best friend suggests she come stay with her and her dad. Ummmm enter tall dark and handsome! That’s right her one night of steam turns out is her best friends dad only he doesn’t know it because she wore a mask! The build up and relationship Rafe and Diana begin to create is amazing and I absolutely couldn’t get enough! This book will leave you swooning but always wanting more and to me that is a masterpiece!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely devoured Desperate Lies by Rae Ryder in one sitting! Couldn't put it down! This book had all my favorites: Age gap, witty banter, drama, new beginnings, hot billionaire MMC, hidden identity, spice for days, and forced proximity with a side of daddy kink 😉
The story follows Diana, a young influencer escaping her narcissistic father, left with nothing and forced to rebuild. Rafe is Diana's bestie's single dad, a powerful billionaire and the best dad, but he's forgotten about his own needs.
Diana and Rafe have instant attraction and undeniable chemistry. Their banter is exquisite and their connection is off the charts! I love that Rafe is everything Diana needs and vice versa. He's tender, patient, and passionate, while Diana is fun, sexy, romantic, and reminds Rafe he's more than just a dad. Highly recommend this one!
The story follows Diana, a young influencer escaping her narcissistic father, left with nothing and forced to rebuild. Rafe is Diana's bestie's single dad, a powerful billionaire and the best dad, but he's forgotten about his own needs.
Diana and Rafe have instant attraction and undeniable chemistry. Their banter is exquisite and their connection is off the charts! I love that Rafe is everything Diana needs and vice versa. He's tender, patient, and passionate, while Diana is fun, sexy, romantic, and reminds Rafe he's more than just a dad. Highly recommend this one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow, Rae Ryder has done it again. 5 star read ! From first reading Worth Every Penny in the Hawkston Billionaires series I’ve been hooked on her books. Desperate Lies follows on from Worth Every Moment and tells Diana’s story after she refused to marry Seb Hawkston. Introducing Rafe Bastion her ‘stranger’ from the sex club, with a twist that this is her best friend’s dad. Although there have been similar troupes Rae has a writing style that has you captivated from the first chapter and not wanting to put the book down. As much as I love to finish a book knowing the mmc and fmc have found their happy ever after, it’s so hard to move on and find a new read. Can’t wait for the bonus chapter in the published book. Thank you for allowing me to be a ARC again, it was a pleasure.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2026
4.5⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Of all the tropes I love Best Friend’s dad is my top #1 and this book does it so good.
What I liked: kitchen dancing, the fmc is a book influenced and a relevant one. The fact that he doesn’t remember her, but she remembers him and everything they did. The spice scenes weren’t consistent but there was a lot of spicy tension after.
What I didn’t like: how the fmc got mad at the mmc because she thought he forgot about her: like girl did you forget the first you met him you wore a mask and had an American accent( she even had that herself) so no duh the real you might have been unrecognizable for a bit. There were so many times where I was like just tell him (again even she said that herself).
Can’t for the next book.
Thank you to Rae Ryder for the e-arc
Of all the tropes I love Best Friend’s dad is my top #1 and this book does it so good.
What I liked: kitchen dancing, the fmc is a book influenced and a relevant one. The fact that he doesn’t remember her, but she remembers him and everything they did. The spice scenes weren’t consistent but there was a lot of spicy tension after.
What I didn’t like: how the fmc got mad at the mmc because she thought he forgot about her: like girl did you forget the first you met him you wore a mask and had an American accent( she even had that herself) so no duh the real you might have been unrecognizable for a bit. There were so many times where I was like just tell him (again even she said that herself).
Can’t for the next book.
Thank you to Rae Ryder for the e-arc
Review of advance copy received from Author
I stayed up til 3am reading this book because I didn’t want to put it down. I was absolutely hooked by the second chapter. I love all of Rae’s books but this may just be my favorite. She has a way of making you feel so close to the characters. Their emotions are your emotions. And the yearning and tension in this book was truly top tier. As someone who grew up with a narcissistic father, I was so proud of Diana cutting him off and proving to herself she could. What can I even say about Rafe?! The perfect book boyfriend. Handsome, rich, selfless, loyal, protective…I could go on! Such a good book! Can’t wait for the others in the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2026
Another wonderful book from Rae. It’s steamy and longing! Ohh the longing! It never gets old.
The book hooks you from the first page, and keeps you there till the end. Drama, but not overly dramatic. But just enough and at the right places that makes it impossible to but the book down.
There is an age cap, 15 years. And I have read books where it sometimes feels very wrong or just not right. But Rae is good in keeping it real. I loved how Diana talked about Lizzie to Rafe. Being honest and both realise that they have to take a step back.
The dad! I hope in a way we hear more about him in the next one. And that things take a bad turn for him.
Can’t wait to read the next one!
The book hooks you from the first page, and keeps you there till the end. Drama, but not overly dramatic. But just enough and at the right places that makes it impossible to but the book down.
There is an age cap, 15 years. And I have read books where it sometimes feels very wrong or just not right. But Rae is good in keeping it real. I loved how Diana talked about Lizzie to Rafe. Being honest and both realise that they have to take a step back.
The dad! I hope in a way we hear more about him in the next one. And that things take a bad turn for him.
Can’t wait to read the next one!
Review of advance copy
A gajillion stars for this book!
ARC Reader here!
Once again, Rae knocked it out of the park with her amazing writing and storylines! There’s just something about her books that make me never want to put them down!! I was hooked from page one and Rafe and Diana will always have a special place in my heart. I almost screamed when I read the last page realizing there was no more.
If you love books with billionaire MMC’s, best friends dad, masked one night stands, age gap, meet cutes in a sex club, forced proximity, and hidden identities, then this is JUST the book for you.
100/10 recommend. Make sure you get your copy on release day, July 7, 2026. You won’t regret it!
ARC Reader here!
Once again, Rae knocked it out of the park with her amazing writing and storylines! There’s just something about her books that make me never want to put them down!! I was hooked from page one and Rafe and Diana will always have a special place in my heart. I almost screamed when I read the last page realizing there was no more.
If you love books with billionaire MMC’s, best friends dad, masked one night stands, age gap, meet cutes in a sex club, forced proximity, and hidden identities, then this is JUST the book for you.
100/10 recommend. Make sure you get your copy on release day, July 7, 2026. You won’t regret it!
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