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The Protectors #2
Once Upon a Lie
Not yet published
Expected 20 Oct 26An undercover cop. A mobster’s daughter. The best love stories start with a lie in this funny, emotional, suspenseful rom-com by New York Times bestselling author Max Monroe.
Valentina Cordone doesn’t need a prince—she’s got a thriving bagel-and-book shop in Nashville, game nights with her quirky crew, and a perfectly good life. But when her attractive new neighbor shows up with effortless charm and an award-winning smile, she starts to reconsider.
Detective Shane Maddox went undercover to surveil a mob boss’s daughter. What he didn’t expect? That she’d be a lovable ray of sunshine, nothing like the crime princess he imagined. He planned to get close but walk away untouched. Instead, he’s falling hard…and realizing she’s in more danger than she knows.
Torn between duty and desire, Shane keeps his identity secret while protecting Valentina from her family’s criminal empire. As the truth explodes, he must prove his love is real while keeping her alive—no small feat when she won’t take his calls.
Even though the prince is a liar, he can’t risk losing his princess.
Sometimes fairy tales don’t start with once upon a time. They start with once upon a lie.
Valentina Cordone doesn’t need a prince—she’s got a thriving bagel-and-book shop in Nashville, game nights with her quirky crew, and a perfectly good life. But when her attractive new neighbor shows up with effortless charm and an award-winning smile, she starts to reconsider.
Detective Shane Maddox went undercover to surveil a mob boss’s daughter. What he didn’t expect? That she’d be a lovable ray of sunshine, nothing like the crime princess he imagined. He planned to get close but walk away untouched. Instead, he’s falling hard…and realizing she’s in more danger than she knows.
Torn between duty and desire, Shane keeps his identity secret while protecting Valentina from her family’s criminal empire. As the truth explodes, he must prove his love is real while keeping her alive—no small feat when she won’t take his calls.
Even though the prince is a liar, he can’t risk losing his princess.
Sometimes fairy tales don’t start with once upon a time. They start with once upon a lie.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication October 20, 2026
About the author
Max Monroe
75 books9,591 followersMany moons ago, a dynamic duo of romance authors teamed up under the pseudonym Max Monroe, and, well, the rest is history...
Max Monroe is the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author of more than fifty contemporary romance titles. Favorite writing partners and long time friends, Max and Monroe strive to live and write all the fun, sexy swoon so often missing from their social media newsfeed. Sarcastic by nature, their two writing souls feel like they’ve found their other half. This is their most favorite adventure thus far.
Max Monroe is the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author of more than fifty contemporary romance titles. Favorite writing partners and long time friends, Max and Monroe strive to live and write all the fun, sexy swoon so often missing from their social media newsfeed. Sarcastic by nature, their two writing souls feel like they’ve found their other half. This is their most favorite adventure thus far.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5 Stars
Valentina + Shane
We already met Shane as Dom's bestie in the first book. → Call Me Anytime
Now it's his time to find his HEA.
Which won't be easy because it all starts with a lie.
He's supposed to go undercover to find out how deeply Valentina is connected to her dad's mafia empire.
What the cops don't know - she is so not involved. She doesn't even know it exists.
She's happily running her bagel/book shop!
Dom moves into Valentina's apartment building to get close to her - which in itself is quite the challenge with its weird residents and the super insane HOA boss lady. LOL!
Let the fun times begin...
══════════════════
That was adorable and hilarious!
I really loved reading this.
It was a bit too slow-burnish and I wasn't in love with things as much as I wanted to. I don't like lies - who does? And this starts with a lie and Shane has to lie to her for almost the whole book. I really didn't love that. She was so sweet and happy and he felt so guilty and ugh. It just broke my heart! But I still loved reading this. It was so sweet and funny and sparky.
I also again - like in the first book - didn't love the nine year age gap.
But I loved the bestie and the dog and the apartment building with all its ridiculousness.
Like I already said in my review for the first book in this series: I found my favorite Max Monroe genre:
Super Hilarious Romantic Mystery Suspense!
ONCE UPON A LIE was a crazy fun and sweet suspensy mystery rom-com! Run to your nearest book dealer for your own Shane - this one is so mine!
If you can't click the buy-links
from your phone - click ► HERE!
💜
💜
July 8, 2026
I’ve just recently read Call Me Anytime and absolutely loved it, so I couldn't pass up the second book.
I enjoyed it, maybe a bit less than the first one, but I had a fun time.
I’m not a fan of mafia romance, but this one is definitely the best among them. The references to Fourth Wing were a bit annoying. I usually love book mentions in books, but it was a bit too much here (5 direct name drops and a few other times it was mentioned without naming it).
I recommend it to anyone who loves rom-coms with a hint of mystery and some absurd moments.
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for providing this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed it, maybe a bit less than the first one, but I had a fun time.
I’m not a fan of mafia romance, but this one is definitely the best among them. The references to Fourth Wing were a bit annoying. I usually love book mentions in books, but it was a bit too much here (5 direct name drops and a few other times it was mentioned without naming it).
I recommend it to anyone who loves rom-coms with a hint of mystery and some absurd moments.
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for providing this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 21, 2026
I loved Call Me Anytime, so when I saw there was going to be a second book, I had to read it, as soon as it hit my kindle.
Quite a few years ago me and my mom read Janet Evanovichs Stephanie Plum series, we’re talking 2010 ish. And in a roundabout way this gave me those vibes: minus the she’s bounty hunter.
Here she, Valentina, is the sunshine bagel shop owner.
She comes from a crime family.
Enter Shane, the undercover cop, whose mark is you guessed it our girl.
He tries so hard not to fall.
It was very much a rom com. The banter. The side characters. The wacky building group chat.
There’s a slight mystery aspect.
I’ll update this closer to release.
Netgalley arc review ✨
Quite a few years ago me and my mom read Janet Evanovichs Stephanie Plum series, we’re talking 2010 ish. And in a roundabout way this gave me those vibes: minus the she’s bounty hunter.
Here she, Valentina, is the sunshine bagel shop owner.
She comes from a crime family.
Enter Shane, the undercover cop, whose mark is you guessed it our girl.
He tries so hard not to fall.
It was very much a rom com. The banter. The side characters. The wacky building group chat.
There’s a slight mystery aspect.
I’ll update this closer to release.
Netgalley arc review ✨
July 7, 2026
Shane and Valentina were so cute and completely unexpected!
Their story starts as a ruse for Shane. As he infiltrates Valentina’s life though and spends more time with her he quickly becomes enchanted by her beauty and pure heart. Their friendship is formed over time and a strong connection quickly builds but Shane knows the rules and holds back as much as he can but he just can’t resist Valentina.
This story was such a fun read and I loved each intense and adventurous moment these two encountered and overcame.
I love this series because it has the trademark humor that Max Monroe is known for but also mixes in some mystery and adventure.
Their story starts as a ruse for Shane. As he infiltrates Valentina’s life though and spends more time with her he quickly becomes enchanted by her beauty and pure heart. Their friendship is formed over time and a strong connection quickly builds but Shane knows the rules and holds back as much as he can but he just can’t resist Valentina.
This story was such a fun read and I loved each intense and adventurous moment these two encountered and overcame.
I love this series because it has the trademark humor that Max Monroe is known for but also mixes in some mystery and adventure.
June 22, 2026
Rating: 3.75/5 ⭐
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Max Monroe delivers a fun blend of romance, light suspense, and humor in Once Upon a Lie. The premise of an undercover detective falling for the daughter of the mob boss he's investigating had me hooked from the start, and the story largely lived up to that promise.
What really made this book work for me was the cast of characters. Valentina ("Teeny") was an absolute ray of sunshine, but in a way that felt genuine rather than over-the-top. She was optimistic and kind without crossing into unrealistic territory, which made her incredibly easy to root for. While the attraction between Teeny and Shane develops quickly, their relationship itself felt natural, and I enjoyed watching their connection grow.
I also loved the friendships throughout the book. Teeny's relationships with Sunnie, Cher, Alfred, and Nico added so much warmth and personality to the story and helped create a strong sense of community around the main romance.
That said, I did struggle at times with the imbalance created by Shane's deception. Given the nature of his undercover assignment, I found myself wishing the truth had come out sooner and that the relationship hadn't progressed quite as far before Teeny had all the information. However, I appreciated that Shane himself recognized how complicated and uncomfortable the situation was, which made it easier to stay invested in his character.
My biggest disappointment was that I wanted a more significant confrontation between Teeny and Leo. Given the buildup, it felt like there was an opportunity for a more impactful resolution there.
Overall, this was an entertaining, emotional romance with likable characters, good chemistry, and enough suspense to keep the pages turning. Fans of romantic suspense with a lighter, rom-com feel will likely enjoy this one. And after meeting Nico, I'm definitely hoping there's a third book in the series that follows his story. I have really enjoyed this series so far!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Max Monroe delivers a fun blend of romance, light suspense, and humor in Once Upon a Lie. The premise of an undercover detective falling for the daughter of the mob boss he's investigating had me hooked from the start, and the story largely lived up to that promise.
What really made this book work for me was the cast of characters. Valentina ("Teeny") was an absolute ray of sunshine, but in a way that felt genuine rather than over-the-top. She was optimistic and kind without crossing into unrealistic territory, which made her incredibly easy to root for. While the attraction between Teeny and Shane develops quickly, their relationship itself felt natural, and I enjoyed watching their connection grow.
I also loved the friendships throughout the book. Teeny's relationships with Sunnie, Cher, Alfred, and Nico added so much warmth and personality to the story and helped create a strong sense of community around the main romance.
That said, I did struggle at times with the imbalance created by Shane's deception. Given the nature of his undercover assignment, I found myself wishing the truth had come out sooner and that the relationship hadn't progressed quite as far before Teeny had all the information. However, I appreciated that Shane himself recognized how complicated and uncomfortable the situation was, which made it easier to stay invested in his character.
My biggest disappointment was that I wanted a more significant confrontation between Teeny and Leo. Given the buildup, it felt like there was an opportunity for a more impactful resolution there.
Overall, this was an entertaining, emotional romance with likable characters, good chemistry, and enough suspense to keep the pages turning. Fans of romantic suspense with a lighter, rom-com feel will likely enjoy this one. And after meeting Nico, I'm definitely hoping there's a third book in the series that follows his story. I have really enjoyed this series so far!
July 10, 2026
One I had no idea this was going to be a series. So when I saw this on NetGalley and I realized it was Shane’s story, immediately sign me up! Now even though I was excited for this I do have to admit it didn’t quite live up to Dom & Hannah’s story. However, Valentina & Shane’s kept me engaged the entire time and I couldn’t wait to see how their story unfolded.
My favorite component to this book was all the characters didn’t matter if it was main characters like Shane & Valentina. Or side characters like Albert, Cher and Sunni. Every single character is easy to connect to and the found family element even better. I especially loved Al and Valentina’s relationship it was so wholesome and brought such a sweet element to the story.
In terms of the relationship between Shane & Valentina I also enjoyed it immensely. They had a slow start and rightfully so. I also loved that even with the secrets there was grace and forgiveness.
My only complaint was the mafia element. I guess I expected more of it in the story. But it’s very diluted due Valentina being pretty naive about it. Also I was not a big fan of all the popular booktok book references. Which some might say blasphemy. But it got to be excessive and it took away from the actual story.
Overall, this is a fun book that I highly recommend. But I will warn please read Hannah & Doms book first before jumping in here!
Lastly thank you to NetGalley & Montlake for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
My favorite component to this book was all the characters didn’t matter if it was main characters like Shane & Valentina. Or side characters like Albert, Cher and Sunni. Every single character is easy to connect to and the found family element even better. I especially loved Al and Valentina’s relationship it was so wholesome and brought such a sweet element to the story.
In terms of the relationship between Shane & Valentina I also enjoyed it immensely. They had a slow start and rightfully so. I also loved that even with the secrets there was grace and forgiveness.
My only complaint was the mafia element. I guess I expected more of it in the story. But it’s very diluted due Valentina being pretty naive about it. Also I was not a big fan of all the popular booktok book references. Which some might say blasphemy. But it got to be excessive and it took away from the actual story.
Overall, this is a fun book that I highly recommend. But I will warn please read Hannah & Doms book first before jumping in here!
Lastly thank you to NetGalley & Montlake for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 20, 2026
Thank you Montlake through NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
4.25/5
I will admit, I haven't read the first book in this series but thankfully it is a complete standalone and I was not lost at all but intrigued enough to go back and read book 1. I knew this would be a miscommunication trop seeing as it's a cop and mob bosses daughter, and usually that is not my favorite, but I really enjoyed this book because the miscommunication IS NOT DRAWN OUT!!
Shane is undercover and trying to get information on Valentina Cordone but, best laid plans and all that, you can only imagine what ensues. The relationship progression felt very natural and was not rushed in my opinion. I have read other books by this author and have had my heart stomped on but this book was a nice romcom. The apartment complex adventures created a lot of fun times. And side noted, I work in geriatrics and loved Alfred and the story of his wife.
There were a lot of references to Fourth Wing, so if you don't like that book, WTF, but also you might not like this book. Valentina owns a bagel and book store which was described so well that I want to find a place like this like yesterday.
There are some twists and turns that you don't expect and some that you do. I kind of guessed certain aspects but some came as a surprise. The ending did feel a little rushed but overall I really enjoyed the book!
4.25/5
I will admit, I haven't read the first book in this series but thankfully it is a complete standalone and I was not lost at all but intrigued enough to go back and read book 1. I knew this would be a miscommunication trop seeing as it's a cop and mob bosses daughter, and usually that is not my favorite, but I really enjoyed this book because the miscommunication IS NOT DRAWN OUT!!
Shane is undercover and trying to get information on Valentina Cordone but, best laid plans and all that, you can only imagine what ensues. The relationship progression felt very natural and was not rushed in my opinion. I have read other books by this author and have had my heart stomped on but this book was a nice romcom. The apartment complex adventures created a lot of fun times. And side noted, I work in geriatrics and loved Alfred and the story of his wife.
There were a lot of references to Fourth Wing, so if you don't like that book, WTF, but also you might not like this book. Valentina owns a bagel and book store which was described so well that I want to find a place like this like yesterday.
There are some twists and turns that you don't expect and some that you do. I kind of guessed certain aspects but some came as a surprise. The ending did feel a little rushed but overall I really enjoyed the book!
August 7, 2026
ARC REVIEW- ONCE UPON A LIE
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
🩵Rom Com
🩵Secret Identity
🩵Mobster’s Daughter x Undercover Cop
🩵Forced Proximity
🩵Slight Mystery
___________________
Thanks to Max Monroe, Montlake and NetGalley for the ARC! I received an advance copy of the book and am leaving an honest review. All opinions are my own.
___________________
I read book one of this series, Call Me Anytime, and had the best time reading it. So I had to sign up for this one! We get Shane’s story this time and it’s just as much fun as the previous story.
Shane has to go undercover and get close to Valentina “Teeny” Cordone, a mob boss’s daughter, to figure out if she is a part of his dealings. What he finds is sunshine personified and someone who is completely unaware her dad is still dirty.
I seriously nearly died laughing at the Magnolia residents chat and all the hijinks with the HOA president. Alfred, Teeny’s 80 year old best friend was adorable and I loved their friendship.
Shane falling hard and fast for Teeny you could see coming a mile away but it was still so sweet to read. And then him trying to fight his attraction and pull to her, all the while he’s keeping the truth from her. I kept turning page after page to see how it would all turn out!
I had a blast reading this and loved the cameos by Dom and Hannah from book 1! With the glimpses we got of Teeny’s brother Nico, I hope he gets a book as well! I want to see more of him. Overall, a fun book and great pool read!
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
🩵Rom Com
🩵Secret Identity
🩵Mobster’s Daughter x Undercover Cop
🩵Forced Proximity
🩵Slight Mystery
___________________
Thanks to Max Monroe, Montlake and NetGalley for the ARC! I received an advance copy of the book and am leaving an honest review. All opinions are my own.
___________________
I read book one of this series, Call Me Anytime, and had the best time reading it. So I had to sign up for this one! We get Shane’s story this time and it’s just as much fun as the previous story.
Shane has to go undercover and get close to Valentina “Teeny” Cordone, a mob boss’s daughter, to figure out if she is a part of his dealings. What he finds is sunshine personified and someone who is completely unaware her dad is still dirty.
I seriously nearly died laughing at the Magnolia residents chat and all the hijinks with the HOA president. Alfred, Teeny’s 80 year old best friend was adorable and I loved their friendship.
Shane falling hard and fast for Teeny you could see coming a mile away but it was still so sweet to read. And then him trying to fight his attraction and pull to her, all the while he’s keeping the truth from her. I kept turning page after page to see how it would all turn out!
I had a blast reading this and loved the cameos by Dom and Hannah from book 1! With the glimpses we got of Teeny’s brother Nico, I hope he gets a book as well! I want to see more of him. Overall, a fun book and great pool read!
August 8, 2026
Title: Once Upon a Lie Series: The Protectors, Book 2
Author: Max Monroe Narrators: Teddy Hamilton and Shiloh James
Main Characters: Shane and Valentina P. 326
Book Type Reviewed: E-Book Release Date: 10/20/2026
Tropes: Romance, Protective Detective, Mob Daughter, Close Proximity, Rom-Com, Light Suspense
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In book 1, Call Me Anytime, Shane gives his partner Dom a hard time about falling for a woman while on assignment. Now it’s Dom’s turn to get the last laugh when Shane too falls for the woman associated with his assignment.
Shane goes undercover to try to get details on Valentina. She runs a small bagel shop and the authorities need to determine if any illegal activity has taken place. Pretty much from the start, Shane and Valentina hit it off and start spending time with each other. Shane tries to keep his personal feelings out of it but it doesn’t take long for him to realize he likes being around her, and not because of work. But when the case nears its end, how will Shane ever explain it isn’t all a lie?
Cute story. Despite the storyline and the suspense, this still reads light. I do wish certain parts of the book had more details or more depth but it is what it is. I did expect a fun book, lots of excitement, some laughs, some banter, and that’s exactly what I got. A good time.
Thank you to #Netgalley and #Montlake for this book. All reviews and opinions are my own.
Author: Max Monroe Narrators: Teddy Hamilton and Shiloh James
Main Characters: Shane and Valentina P. 326
Book Type Reviewed: E-Book Release Date: 10/20/2026
Tropes: Romance, Protective Detective, Mob Daughter, Close Proximity, Rom-Com, Light Suspense
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In book 1, Call Me Anytime, Shane gives his partner Dom a hard time about falling for a woman while on assignment. Now it’s Dom’s turn to get the last laugh when Shane too falls for the woman associated with his assignment.
Shane goes undercover to try to get details on Valentina. She runs a small bagel shop and the authorities need to determine if any illegal activity has taken place. Pretty much from the start, Shane and Valentina hit it off and start spending time with each other. Shane tries to keep his personal feelings out of it but it doesn’t take long for him to realize he likes being around her, and not because of work. But when the case nears its end, how will Shane ever explain it isn’t all a lie?
Cute story. Despite the storyline and the suspense, this still reads light. I do wish certain parts of the book had more details or more depth but it is what it is. I did expect a fun book, lots of excitement, some laughs, some banter, and that’s exactly what I got. A good time.
Thank you to #Netgalley and #Montlake for this book. All reviews and opinions are my own.
July 22, 2026
"Sometimes fairy tales don't start with once upon a time. They start with once upon a lie". This line in the blurb perfectly captures the essence of this book.
Once Upon a Lie is a suspenseful romcom story between a detective assigned to go undercover to surveil a mobster's daughter. This is the second book in The Protectors series and I loved it even more than the first one. I enjoyed it immensely.
I connected with this story and the characters in a way that I wasn't able to in the first book. It had a great balance between the suspense, the humor and the action. I could picture everything that was happening as if it was a movie. It had excellent secondary characters that brought even more depth to the story. In fact, my favorite quote from the book came from one of them: “Love is an honor, dear. It’s an honor to be able to accompany someone through several seasons of their life. To be able to be at their side when they’re soaring and when they’re crawling. To offer them a solution to their tears and be a calming presence in their fears.”
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the opportunity to review this ARC.
Once Upon a Lie is a suspenseful romcom story between a detective assigned to go undercover to surveil a mobster's daughter. This is the second book in The Protectors series and I loved it even more than the first one. I enjoyed it immensely.
I connected with this story and the characters in a way that I wasn't able to in the first book. It had a great balance between the suspense, the humor and the action. I could picture everything that was happening as if it was a movie. It had excellent secondary characters that brought even more depth to the story. In fact, my favorite quote from the book came from one of them: “Love is an honor, dear. It’s an honor to be able to accompany someone through several seasons of their life. To be able to be at their side when they’re soaring and when they’re crawling. To offer them a solution to their tears and be a calming presence in their fears.”
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the opportunity to review this ARC.
June 22, 2026
This is the second book in the Protector series, and it was easy to enjoy.
Although this isn't as silly and cringe-y as Dom and Hannah's story (IYKYK), the way this storyline moved kept me engaged and flipping pages - wondering what was coming next.
Valentina is a sweet character and easy to connect with, and I enjoyed her relationship with Al and her work ethic. Shane is put in a no-win situation, and he knows it! I appreciated how sweet and all-in he was with her. Between her family’s drama and the lies surrounding this case, it was rough to watch things unfold for her.
While there are some pretty funny interactions that focus around their apartment building, I found this to be a sweet, slow building relationship with the steamy chemistry later on in the book.
In my opinion, you should read this one after book one for the best experience. Once done here, visit the catalog of this author duo for more unforgettable characters and stories. Worth your time, I promise!
I received my ARC from Netgalley and the authors (thank you) and happily leave my thoughts.
Although this isn't as silly and cringe-y as Dom and Hannah's story (IYKYK), the way this storyline moved kept me engaged and flipping pages - wondering what was coming next.
Valentina is a sweet character and easy to connect with, and I enjoyed her relationship with Al and her work ethic. Shane is put in a no-win situation, and he knows it! I appreciated how sweet and all-in he was with her. Between her family’s drama and the lies surrounding this case, it was rough to watch things unfold for her.
While there are some pretty funny interactions that focus around their apartment building, I found this to be a sweet, slow building relationship with the steamy chemistry later on in the book.
In my opinion, you should read this one after book one for the best experience. Once done here, visit the catalog of this author duo for more unforgettable characters and stories. Worth your time, I promise!
I received my ARC from Netgalley and the authors (thank you) and happily leave my thoughts.
June 24, 2026
3.5 ⭐️ rounded to 4 ⭐️
Going from the Red Bridge series to the Protectors series feels like two different sets of authors.
Once Upon a Lie at times feels like you’ve been dropped into the middle of a cheesy 2010s movie, which isn’t a bad thing just know what you’re walking into.
The Magnolia group chat gave me life, so absolutely ridiculous. Although there should have been some serious violations over the AC, how did everyone just let that go?! We need to see this building’s cast of characters again sometime.
Teeny is sunshine and kind in a way that’s genuine which makes you want to root for her. I remember liking Shane as Dom’s partner, I’m glad he got his own book with some similar parallels.
Part of me wishes that Teeny found out what was going on sooner. It feels like there should have been more time spent on the conclusion and wrap up. We kind of sped past things that could have warranted more air time from her perspective.
Overall this is a fun and lighthearted read despite the mafia plot points.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC.
Going from the Red Bridge series to the Protectors series feels like two different sets of authors.
Once Upon a Lie at times feels like you’ve been dropped into the middle of a cheesy 2010s movie, which isn’t a bad thing just know what you’re walking into.
The Magnolia group chat gave me life, so absolutely ridiculous. Although there should have been some serious violations over the AC, how did everyone just let that go?! We need to see this building’s cast of characters again sometime.
Teeny is sunshine and kind in a way that’s genuine which makes you want to root for her. I remember liking Shane as Dom’s partner, I’m glad he got his own book with some similar parallels.
Part of me wishes that Teeny found out what was going on sooner. It feels like there should have been more time spent on the conclusion and wrap up. We kind of sped past things that could have warranted more air time from her perspective.
Overall this is a fun and lighthearted read despite the mafia plot points.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC.
July 10, 2026
I read Call Me Anytime and loved it. When I heard Shane was getting a story, I could not wait to read it, because I just knew it was going to be epic.
Shane was always the single bachelor, jumping from one girl to the next. He wasn’t the one that wanted more and was happy with his life and his job as a police officer. No woman has ever made him, change his ways, or want more. Well, that was until Valentina was shoved into his life. He fell hard and fast, but he knew he needed to stay away and couldn’t because of his job, Valentina was his assignment. He was undercover to get close, but he never anticipated his whole world turning upside down when he met her. She was everything to him, but he has been lying from day one. The feelings and the way they were with each other wasn’t a lie. The lie was everything else, his job, his life, how they met. All a lie. How could he make this work once the assignment was over? How could he tell her the truth and for her to still want to be with him? He has forever changed and all he knows is that he would give up everything, even his job to be with her, if she let him.
Received this ARC for my honest review and opinion.
Shane was always the single bachelor, jumping from one girl to the next. He wasn’t the one that wanted more and was happy with his life and his job as a police officer. No woman has ever made him, change his ways, or want more. Well, that was until Valentina was shoved into his life. He fell hard and fast, but he knew he needed to stay away and couldn’t because of his job, Valentina was his assignment. He was undercover to get close, but he never anticipated his whole world turning upside down when he met her. She was everything to him, but he has been lying from day one. The feelings and the way they were with each other wasn’t a lie. The lie was everything else, his job, his life, how they met. All a lie. How could he make this work once the assignment was over? How could he tell her the truth and for her to still want to be with him? He has forever changed and all he knows is that he would give up everything, even his job to be with her, if she let him.
Received this ARC for my honest review and opinion.
June 21, 2026
This is not my usual romance subgenre. I'm not a fan of maffia stories, so normally, based on the blurb, I wouldn't have picked this book. However, when I saw this e-arc on Netgalley, I was intrigued and decided to give it a try, and was pleasantly surprised. The authors cross their t's and dot their i's, the story is well-executed without plot holes. I preferred Valentina's POV to Shane's - the authors made him a tropey wise guy cop with crude language, not into reading, but apparently with a knack for numbers... meh. Both MCs had distinctive voices, and I especially liked how Shane's troubled conscious was picked up on by Valentina, who struggled with the mixed messages, but did not become insecure and needy. Such a mature, strong and independent woman should not be calling her father "daddy", it didn't fit her character at all, nor the way she perceived her father and his behavior towards her.
Depending on the blurb, I will definitely try another novel by these authors!
Depending on the blurb, I will definitely try another novel by these authors!
June 27, 2026
Thank you Montlake and NetGalley for the ARC
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Max Monroe has done it again! I swear I’ll read absolutely anything this writing duo puts out because they never disappoint. After falling in love with Call Me Anytime, I couldn’t wait for the next book in this series, and Once Upon a Lie exceeded every expectation.
I loved the mix of suspense, romance, and humor that Max Monroe always delivers so effortlessly. The undercover detective/crime boss’s daughter storyline had so much tension, and watching feelings develop when they absolutely shouldn’t have made it impossible to put down. The chemistry was electric, the banter was on point, and there were plenty of twists to keep me hooked until the very end.
If you enjoy romantic suspense with unforgettable characters, fantastic humor, and a love story worth rooting for, don’t miss this one. Another easy five-star read from one of my all-time favorite writing duos!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Max Monroe has done it again! I swear I’ll read absolutely anything this writing duo puts out because they never disappoint. After falling in love with Call Me Anytime, I couldn’t wait for the next book in this series, and Once Upon a Lie exceeded every expectation.
I loved the mix of suspense, romance, and humor that Max Monroe always delivers so effortlessly. The undercover detective/crime boss’s daughter storyline had so much tension, and watching feelings develop when they absolutely shouldn’t have made it impossible to put down. The chemistry was electric, the banter was on point, and there were plenty of twists to keep me hooked until the very end.
If you enjoy romantic suspense with unforgettable characters, fantastic humor, and a love story worth rooting for, don’t miss this one. Another easy five-star read from one of my all-time favorite writing duos!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was such an entertaining rom-com! I loved it! It had the perfect mix of humor, romance, and heartfelt moments that kept me smiling from beginning to end.
Valentina has a huge crush on her handsome neighbor, Shane, and their meet-cute is absolutely hilarious. What she doesn't know is that Shane is an undercover detective and his assignment. He never expected to fall for her so quickly or so completely. While his feelings for her are completely real, everything else is built on lies. There's plenty of emotional tension alongside the laughs.
This was a fun, swoony, and emotional romance with great chemistry, plenty of banter, and a hero who falls hard and fast. If you enjoy romantic comedies with undercover secrets, forced deception, and lots of heart, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Read & Listen on release date 10/20/2026.
Thank you Montlake and Netgalley for the book.
Valentina has a huge crush on her handsome neighbor, Shane, and their meet-cute is absolutely hilarious. What she doesn't know is that Shane is an undercover detective and his assignment. He never expected to fall for her so quickly or so completely. While his feelings for her are completely real, everything else is built on lies. There's plenty of emotional tension alongside the laughs.
This was a fun, swoony, and emotional romance with great chemistry, plenty of banter, and a hero who falls hard and fast. If you enjoy romantic comedies with undercover secrets, forced deception, and lots of heart, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Read & Listen on release date 10/20/2026.
Thank you Montlake and Netgalley for the book.
August 4, 2026
The bagel-and-book shop was enough to make me curious about Once Upon a Lie, but the undercover premise is what kept the story moving. Valentina has worked hard to build a normal, independent life despite belonging to a powerful criminal family. Unfortunately, her charming new neighbor Shane is actually a detective using their relationship to investigate her father.
I enjoyed the contrast between Valentina’s warmth and Shane’s increasingly complicated mission. His feelings become real long before he can be honest with her, which gives the romance an unavoidable sense of tension. The suspense surrounding her family also raises the stakes beyond whether she will forgive him once the truth comes out.
Some parts followed a familiar undercover-romance path, but Valentina’s personality, the Nashville setting, and the mix of humor and danger made this an entertaining read. My sincere thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a free advance review copy.
I enjoyed the contrast between Valentina’s warmth and Shane’s increasingly complicated mission. His feelings become real long before he can be honest with her, which gives the romance an unavoidable sense of tension. The suspense surrounding her family also raises the stakes beyond whether she will forgive him once the truth comes out.
Some parts followed a familiar undercover-romance path, but Valentina’s personality, the Nashville setting, and the mix of humor and danger made this an entertaining read. My sincere thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a free advance review copy.
June 24, 2026
✨Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review!✨
Once Upon a Lie was a fun read about an undercover detective and the mark he ultimately falls for! I enjoyed watching the hijinks that placed Valentina and Shane together, which helped their relationship grow. I did wish that certain reveals (about our MMC's identity) happened a little bit earlier in the story, so that I could see how the couple overcame the secrecy in their relationship in more detail. I suppose that would have made the story more emotional and serious as opposed to the lighthearted rom-com as is.... Overall, I enjoyed the read!
Once Upon a Lie was a fun read about an undercover detective and the mark he ultimately falls for! I enjoyed watching the hijinks that placed Valentina and Shane together, which helped their relationship grow. I did wish that certain reveals (about our MMC's identity) happened a little bit earlier in the story, so that I could see how the couple overcame the secrecy in their relationship in more detail. I suppose that would have made the story more emotional and serious as opposed to the lighthearted rom-com as is.... Overall, I enjoyed the read!
July 24, 2026
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC.
Once Upon a Lie was a pretty cute mafia princess story. The twist being that the princess doesn't know she's a mafia princess.
A bit contrived, but it works. Shane, our MMC, is a former playboy turned good guy, who falls for his mark while on undercover police business. Valentina, FMC, is a fiercely independent business owner who is suspicious of everyone but someone still falls in love at first sight with her hero Shane.
The enjoyment in this story is mostly in following along as Shane grapples with what it means to have actual real feelings for a woman, while also feeling really guilty about lying to her and crossing some professional ethical boundaries. It's an old story, but a fun one nonetheless.
This was book 2, and I'm strongly considering going back to book 1 to read how his partner fell into the same trap.
Once Upon a Lie was a pretty cute mafia princess story. The twist being that the princess doesn't know she's a mafia princess.
A bit contrived, but it works. Shane, our MMC, is a former playboy turned good guy, who falls for his mark while on undercover police business. Valentina, FMC, is a fiercely independent business owner who is suspicious of everyone but someone still falls in love at first sight with her hero Shane.
The enjoyment in this story is mostly in following along as Shane grapples with what it means to have actual real feelings for a woman, while also feeling really guilty about lying to her and crossing some professional ethical boundaries. It's an old story, but a fun one nonetheless.
This was book 2, and I'm strongly considering going back to book 1 to read how his partner fell into the same trap.
June 24, 2026
3* mixed feelings
Shane Maddox, a detective in the Nashville police department, goes undercover to investigate Valentina Cordone, the daughter of a suspected mob boss. To be able to watch her closely, he moves into Teena's high-rise apartment block, Magnolia Condos.
The book started so well, it was living up to its description of a rom-com, then the writing style changed - maybe the second author took over - Shane managed an unbelievable feat while saving Teena who in turn became clingy.
By far the most interesting character in the book was Rita, the self appointed president of the apartment building's HOA, she was a dictator, a bully, and feared by all the residents. Throughout the book I hoped she'd receive her comeuppance during the final pages, sadly she remained reigning over the residents.
Suspend your belief and the book will be enjoyable, it just wasn't for me.
With thanks to NetGalley and Montlake Publishing for the ARC, this review is my personal, unbiased opinion.
Shane Maddox, a detective in the Nashville police department, goes undercover to investigate Valentina Cordone, the daughter of a suspected mob boss. To be able to watch her closely, he moves into Teena's high-rise apartment block, Magnolia Condos.
The book started so well, it was living up to its description of a rom-com, then the writing style changed - maybe the second author took over - Shane managed an unbelievable feat while saving Teena who in turn became clingy.
By far the most interesting character in the book was Rita, the self appointed president of the apartment building's HOA, she was a dictator, a bully, and feared by all the residents. Throughout the book I hoped she'd receive her comeuppance during the final pages, sadly she remained reigning over the residents.
Suspend your belief and the book will be enjoyable, it just wasn't for me.
With thanks to NetGalley and Montlake Publishing for the ARC, this review is my personal, unbiased opinion.
July 8, 2026
Once Upon a Lie was such a fun read. Valentina is warm, independent, and instantly lovable, while Shane is charming, protective, and carrying enough secrets to make any relationship unnecessarily complicated.
Their chemistry was fantastic, the banter kept me laughing, and the mix of romance, suspense, and quirky side characters made the story fly by. Shane’s plan may have started out professionally, but his feelings clearly did not get the memo.
This book had humor, heart, danger, and a hero who quickly realizes he is in way over his head. Apparently, falling in love is much easier than explaining why you have been lying.
A funny, emotional, and addictive romance that kept me smiling from beginning to end.
Their chemistry was fantastic, the banter kept me laughing, and the mix of romance, suspense, and quirky side characters made the story fly by. Shane’s plan may have started out professionally, but his feelings clearly did not get the memo.
This book had humor, heart, danger, and a hero who quickly realizes he is in way over his head. Apparently, falling in love is much easier than explaining why you have been lying.
A funny, emotional, and addictive romance that kept me smiling from beginning to end.
July 21, 2026
Thank you NetGalley, Montlake and Max Monroe for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 ⭐️
This is book #2 in a series but could be read as a standalone. The first book was a fun, easy read that had me rolling my eyes.
This book felt slightly more realistic and serious and I enjoyed it overall more.
I really enjoyed the FMC and her independence, work ethic and loyalty. The MMC is the typical lovable playboy who is immediately smitten by the FMC who is entirely off limits.
The apartment building group chat was full of the quirky goofballs that cannot possibly exist in real life and yet somehow seem totally realistic.
Overall, this is a fun book that is easy to binge and get lost in but not something that will be a massive emotional rollercoaster.
3.5 ⭐️
This is book #2 in a series but could be read as a standalone. The first book was a fun, easy read that had me rolling my eyes.
This book felt slightly more realistic and serious and I enjoyed it overall more.
I really enjoyed the FMC and her independence, work ethic and loyalty. The MMC is the typical lovable playboy who is immediately smitten by the FMC who is entirely off limits.
The apartment building group chat was full of the quirky goofballs that cannot possibly exist in real life and yet somehow seem totally realistic.
Overall, this is a fun book that is easy to binge and get lost in but not something that will be a massive emotional rollercoaster.
July 26, 2026
This second book in the Protector's series brings us Valentina and Shane, who we met in the first book, Call Me Anytime. Shane is assigned to go undercover to discover whether or not Valentina is involved in her father's criminal activities, or if she really is an innocent bagel and book shop owner. What he doesn't expect is his attraction to her. This book is filled with many funny and also emotional moments. The book brings us many wonderful characters like Alfred and his dog, Pip, Valentina's employees, Sunnie and Cher, not to mention the many interesting people who inhabit the condo building they are living in. Overall a book that brings us a story like we've come to expect from Max Monroe.
June 20, 2026
Valentina Cordone seemed to have it all for a mob princess so when a cutie moves in next door it was just the cherry on top or was it? Detective Shane Maddox is going undercover to sniff out information about Valentina’s father and his daughter is the way in. He just has to get close to her without her knowing who he really is to get info but Valentina is nothing like Shane expected. Can Shane get the intel he needs and disappear or will real feelings make this case more complicated? What a great addition to this series but each can be read as a stand-alone. Lots of condo group chat & a little mystery mixed into this quirky romance. Told in first person and dual POV.
June 26, 2026
I’ll admit that the synopsis had me intrigued and the prologue hooked me, but then it fell flat.
The characters had no depth, the plot was stagnant, and the events unbelievable. Who would stay at a condo where the HOA person writes fines if you don’t get your mail and keeps a chore list for the tenants? Who has an AC unit delivered via helicopter? Who falls for their male neighbor and sleeps over that quickly when you’re virtually strangers? I don’t find any of this believable or enjoyable.
I really wanted to like this one because of the premise and prologue, but I couldn’t.
*An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.
The characters had no depth, the plot was stagnant, and the events unbelievable. Who would stay at a condo where the HOA person writes fines if you don’t get your mail and keeps a chore list for the tenants? Who has an AC unit delivered via helicopter? Who falls for their male neighbor and sleeps over that quickly when you’re virtually strangers? I don’t find any of this believable or enjoyable.
I really wanted to like this one because of the premise and prologue, but I couldn’t.
*An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.
June 28, 2026
A funny, emotional and utterly charming rom-com with a brilliant premise. Valentina is sunshine personified — running her bagel-and-book shop in Nashville, completely unaware that her gorgeous new neighbour is an undercover detective sent to surveil her mob boss father.
Shane is completely unprepared for the woman he finds, and watching him fall while desperately trying to maintain his cover is both swoony and genuinely funny. The chemistry crackles, the humour lands, and when the truth inevitably explodes — buckle up.
Sweet, suspenseful and thoroughly entertaining.
Thank you to Max Monroe, Netgalley and Montlake for the arc of this book.
Shane is completely unprepared for the woman he finds, and watching him fall while desperately trying to maintain his cover is both swoony and genuinely funny. The chemistry crackles, the humour lands, and when the truth inevitably explodes — buckle up.
Sweet, suspenseful and thoroughly entertaining.
Thank you to Max Monroe, Netgalley and Montlake for the arc of this book.
July 22, 2026
“Maybe fairy tales don’t start with Once upon a time after all. Maybe they start with Once upon a lie.”
I love the effortless way Max Monroe weaves humor into their writing and they did it again here. It’s hilarious and romantic. The condo group chats had me dying.
I appreciated this one was less cringy than the first book, I couldn’t deal with all the NCIS stuff. So this book was much more enjoyable for me. Shane and Teeny’s chemistry was off the charts.
Somebody tell me the book is gonna be Nico!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this advance copy in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own.
I love the effortless way Max Monroe weaves humor into their writing and they did it again here. It’s hilarious and romantic. The condo group chats had me dying.
I appreciated this one was less cringy than the first book, I couldn’t deal with all the NCIS stuff. So this book was much more enjoyable for me. Shane and Teeny’s chemistry was off the charts.
Somebody tell me the book is gonna be Nico!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this advance copy in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own.
August 9, 2026
Note: This review is for an ARC and is my unbiased opinion.
Once Upon a Lie was a lot of fun to read. The prolouge set the story up in the best way and made the build up of Shane and Teeny's romance even more exciting. Shane following Dom in falling for his mark was perfect and I loved the hard time Dom gave him. Teeny was such a sweetheart and I felt bad she was being duped but Shane's feelings towards her made up for it. They were adorable together. I also loved how Alfred and Pip got into the story. The little bit of suspense only added to the entertainment value of the romance, and I loved how everything played out.
Once Upon a Lie was a lot of fun to read. The prolouge set the story up in the best way and made the build up of Shane and Teeny's romance even more exciting. Shane following Dom in falling for his mark was perfect and I loved the hard time Dom gave him. Teeny was such a sweetheart and I felt bad she was being duped but Shane's feelings towards her made up for it. They were adorable together. I also loved how Alfred and Pip got into the story. The little bit of suspense only added to the entertainment value of the romance, and I loved how everything played out.
June 22, 2026
As I am not usually a rom-com reader, I truly didn't think I could laugh harder than I did for the first book in this series, Call Me Anytime. But I am pretty sure I did with this one. There are just no words for how ridiculous Shane and Teeny’s apartment situation is. I truly could have read an entire book on the tenant shenanigans and the group chat-no plot required. Overall, I loved this story. It was the perfect amount of angst and drama and adorableness, that keeps me continuously hooked on Max Monroe.
July 6, 2026
Shane is put between a rock and a hard place when he has to go undercover to determine if Valentina Cordone is helping her father in his illegal smuggling ring. When he moves into her condo complex, he tries to get close to Teeny (Valentina) but she doesn’t make it easy. With the crazy HOA rules they both have to follow, it binds them together more than Shane could ever have predicted. Shane never expected to fall in love with Teeny but when he does, it makes him sick to deceive her. I really enjoyed this story and especially loved the epilogue!
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