The Lives of Liars

by Mae Roberts

Something terrible happened, and Hazel Matthis doesn't say a word. Instead, she lives her life as the embodiment of sunshine and joy-only, so much more lurks underneath.

When she crosses paths with the guarded Zachary Blake, though, they can't help but be drawn into a web of lies and secrets they've always kept buried deep. Together, they begin to peel back the layers to uncover a truth far darker than either could have imagined.

But as the past claws its way to the surface, Hazel and Zack realize nothing about that night was ever as it seemed, and someone will go to any length to ensure it stays hidden.

The Whispering Killer is still watching, still waiting...and no one is safe.

Some truths are too dangerous to uncover. And some lies? They'll kill you to keep them.

298 pages, Paperback

Published April 13, 2026

About the author

Mae Roberts is a queer author originally from the Midwest who spends 98% of her time reading, writing, or making friends on the internet. She’s currently hard at work on her second novel in the Whispering Series, alongside a handful of other fun and chaotic projects.

A lover of languages (she speaks five and counting), Mae thrives on learning new things, diving headfirst into her many hobbies and hyper fixations. Whether she’s obsessing over a new fictional world or exchanging book recs online, Mae is all about passion, connection, and storytelling that lingers.

Reviews

[Paige (wingsandsmut)]

After the end of book 1, I was ready to see what would happen next in this series, especially after the ending! Vivienne LaRue and Stephen Dexter performed this audio in dual narration and I love them for Hazel & Zach. I think they both did a wonderful job at bringing the chemistry between them to life. And the suspense had me wanting to keep listening! Hazel and Zach are looking for answers, but it’s definitely not easy for them. I will be impatiently waiting for the next audio now!

What to expect:
-dark romance
-suspense/mystery
-age gap
-forced proximity
-one bed
-grumpy x sunshine
-touch her & die
-pierced mmc

[Amber (Amber Reads Romance)]

⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️.5

The Lives of Liars is the 2nd book in The Whispering series and this follows a different couple after the cliffhanger of the first book. I was actually shocked we didn't continue the previous couple's story with how crazy the ending was, but it built on the plot and suspense perfectly. I honestly had to reread the first one because I forgot about how it ended. You will definitely need to read the first book. This shouldn't be read as a standalone.

Zach and Hazel team up to uncover what happened to their friends. They are in danger the more they try to uncover and secrets from the past are also revealed. They had great banter and chemistry. Zach may be a grump, but he is obsessed with Hazel and will protect her at all costs.

AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
🎤Dual Narration by Stephen Dexter & Vivienne LaRue

This audiobook was narrated by Stephen Dexter and Vivienne LaRue. It was a fast-paced and suspenseful listen and Stephen Dexter is always a favorite for me.

Thank you to Must Love Audio for providing the ALC.

[fatedhearts_lorilee]

I had such a good time reading the second book in this series. Luckily, I read book one just before starting this, so I didn’t have long to wait after the book one cliffhanger! However, I definitely still have questions and I am still stressed after that ending, so I am very excited to see where we go in book three.

Hazel and Zach come together to try to figure out what happened to Leyla and Cameron. I loved Hazel and Zach’s banter. It was so much fun watching them poke at each other, and then seeing how that developed as they start to realize that there’s more to other person than they initially thought. They both have traumas to work through but they just might be able to help each other through it.

I also appreciated Lincoln and his daughter Norah. The moments the group had together were so sweet, and I felt like we got to know all of them more.

Some of my favourite tropes/moments:
•He holds her hair back when she’s sick
•He calls her sweetheart, sunshine girl, daisy
•She calls him cowboy and gramps (lol)
•Age gap
•“If I tell you to run, you run.”
•One bed
•Spicy motorcycle moment

Vivienne LaRue and Stephen Dexter narrated, and they both did a great job! They each narrated their own chapters, so although we didn’t get the full effect of their banter and conversations back and forth, they both brought all the characters to life. They both really brought all the various emotions that Hazel and Zach experienced — the frustration, amusement, regret, fear, longing, and love.

Thank you so much to Must Love Audio and Lyric Audiobooks for the gifted ALC! All thoughts are my own and are freely given.

[Michelle]

4/5 ⭐️

Not another cliffhanger! This was a continuation from book 1, The Moments You Miss, where we got a look into Cameron and Leyla’s story. The second book, The Lives of Liars, picks up with their friends, Hazel and Zack. I loved the dynamic between Hazel and Zack, and Hazel’s humor is so funny.

Unfortunately, only part of the mystery was revealed which was a little maddening. I thought the author would go into detail more in this book. There were many mentions about the bigger picture and vague references, but it didn’t get too detailed which makes it seem dragged out. I wasn’t expecting another cliffhanger, so I hope book 3 can wrap everything up.

Thank you Mae Roberts and Luna Literary for providing this e-ARC. All opinions are my own.

#TheLivesofLiars #MaeRoberts #LunaLiterary #ARC

[My Reading Era]

Hazel is still grieving her loss when Zach approaches her, asking for help uncovering what really happened that night. As they investigate, more secrets and lies come to light, making them question who they can trust. Before long, they begin to feel like someone is watching them and that they're in real danger. Amid all the chaos, Hazel and Zach find comfort in one another, and their growing connection turns into something more.

Vivienne LaRue and Stephen Dexter were the perfect narrators for Hazel and Zach. They capture the tension, chemistry, and suspense flawlessly, bringing the story and its characters to life in a way that keeps you hooked.

This book ends on a cliffhanger, leaving me with plenty of unanswered questions. So, I can't wait for the next book to see how everything unfolds.

Thank you, Mae Roberts and Must Love Audio for the ALC.

[Cristie Sluberski]

✨ 𝗔𝗟𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪 ✨

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝟮 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗵𝗶𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗞𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗯𝘆 𝗠𝗮𝗲 𝗥𝗼𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘁𝘀

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗟𝗶𝗮𝗿𝘀
❤️ dark romantic suspense
◾️ murder mystery
❤️ grumpy/sunshine
◾️ enemies to lovers
❤️ age gap
◾️ hurt/comfort
❤️ touch her & die
◾️ deep secrets/hidden identities

𝗠𝗬 𝗧𝗛𝗢𝗨𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦: I was so eager to start this one after the crazy cliffhanger that book one left off on. I was surprised that we had two different main characters, but I love how it all ties together in the end! This one follows Hazel & Zack. I loved how their relationship first started off as working together to uncover the truth about what happened to their friends, but then as time went on, it grew into a romantic connection! I loved the audio narration and I didn’t want to stop listening because I was so drawn to the story & the narration. I cannot wait for the next book in the series!

[Peyton]

In Mae Roberts’ The Lives of Liars, come for the emotional trauma, stay for the hidden dangers. Go on a whirlwind journey as our characters work through their grief and end up revealing hidden secrets along the way, and everything they thought they knew about their lives and those in them is seen in a new light. Truth has a sadistic way of showing itself. Now the question is, who is the biggest liar of them all. Buckle in, once you start, you won't be able to stop.

Hazel Mathias and Zachary Blake are distraught. Their best friends, Leyla and Cameron, left on a getaway, but soon they received the news that they had passed away. How do they cope when their best friend is gone? Something doesn’t seem right to either of them, but is that them grieving, or something else. Something is amiss. Working on a hunch, together they investigate what happened to their friends in hopes to find answers, discover what happened, and perhaps find a way to start healing.

The plot brings readers on a journey as we see where Zach and Hazel are heading in the aftermath of the first story. While we see them a bit in the first story, we focus on them more in this story. They each are personally going through things, and somehow the other person not only learns about it, they in fact help them and feel at ease. While they have to work on opening themselves to the other, they do have some sweet and spicy scenes together. We meet some more side characters that show who is within Zach’s personal circle. As the story continues, it was fun to learn that the incidents that occurred in the first book were thought to have ended, but it didn’t. Our Whispering Killer has only just begun, and everyone is a pawn in their game. Now it’s up to our group to figure out who it is, and what’s their endgame. But who knows? Everyone could tell a story, gain your trust, but in the end lie to you. This is the life of a liar.

They have a relationship built on a foundation of trust. They both know that everything is happening fast, in fact they just met at the funeral. They need to focus on whether their hunches are correct, yet they still can’t tear away from the other. They’re opposites in every way, yet they complete each other. In a story that gets darker the more they investigate, their every move is monitored, and their lives are on the line, they have lighter moments where they’re able to tear down the facade the other has put up and see their vulnerability. Together, they have seen each other at their worst, and they still are attracted to one another. They even have a few moments where you’ll laugh at their banter, and enjoy reading certain scenes throughout the story.

All in all, I enjoyed reading the story, seeing how Zach and Hazel’s relationship will last, depending on how open they want to be with themselves and their feelings, as well as what our Whispering Killer is up to. With the way our story ends, it will lead to another book, and I can't wait to see what happens with our unlucky group.

I received an advance reader copy of this book from Mae Roberts for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. My intentions are to write feedback that reflects my genuine thoughts and is written with the book’s genre and target audience in mind. I aim to review fairly and respectfully, focusing on the story’s purpose.

[AussieBookAddict (Mel)]

My Rating: ★★★★☆

The Lives of Liars by Mae Roberts is a dark romantic suspense that weaves together buried trauma, obsessive secrets, and an undercurrent of danger that never fully loosens its grip. Blending psychological tension with emotionally driven romance, the story leans into opposites-attract dynamics, unresolved pasts, and a looming threat that feels as present as it is unseen.

Where this novel stands out most is in its layered emotional core. Hazel Matthis presents herself as light and warmth, but beneath that carefully crafted exterior lies something fractured and guarded. Her dynamic with Zachary Blake; reserved, controlled, and deeply affected by the past in his own way; which creates a compelling push-and-pull that fuels both the romance and the mystery. Their connection builds through shared tension and unspoken understanding, allowing vulnerability to emerge in a way that feels earned rather than rushed.

The suspense element is equally engaging, with the concept of the “Whispering Killer” threading unease throughout the narrative. There’s a constant sense that something is just out of reach, with truths slowly unraveling in a way that keeps the reader questioning what really happened. While some aspects of the plot could have been expanded for even greater impact, the overall pacing maintains a steady sense of intrigue and momentum.

Emotionally, the story doesn’t shy away from heavier themes. The inclusion of trauma, grief, and mental health struggles adds weight to both the characters and their decisions, grounding the darker elements of the plot in something that feels raw and human. This depth enhances the romantic arc, making the connection between Hazel and Zack feel not only intense, but necessary.

Because of this balance between suspense, emotional vulnerability, and romantic tension, the reading experience feels immersive and quietly unsettling in the best way. It’s the kind of story that keeps you turning pages not just for answers, but to see how far the characters are willing to go for the truth; and for each other.

I would recommend The Lives of Liars to readers who enjoy dark romantic suspense, opposites-attract dynamics, trauma-driven character arcs, and mystery elements that unfold gradually rather than all at once. Those who appreciate a blend of emotional depth with an underlying sense of danger will likely find this especially compelling.

Overall, this is a gripping and emotionally charged read that pairs quiet intensity with dark intrigue, delivering a story where secrets linger, trust is fragile, and the truth is far more dangerous than it first appears.

[Bookedtillsunset]

ALC Review | The lives of liars - Mae Roberts

4.25⭐️ | 2.5🌶️ | 5🎧

After book one’s cliffhanger, I knew there was WAY more to the story, so I was really curious to see where this one would take us - and I really loved it.

Hazel is such a little firecracker, while Zack can be a grumpy, sometimes absolute asshole 😂 Put them together and you get some hilarious moments. I loved their banter, the way they bounce off each other, and how their energy just works.

But what I really loved was that the attraction between them never completely took over everything else. There was still doubt, insecurity, trauma and those inner demons that made their connection feel so much deeper. I loved Zack’s backstory and understanding why he fought so hard against giving in to Hazel and what they could become.

I loved how he’s all “I’m grumpy and I don’t care”, but when she feels sick, he holds her hair and calls her sweetheart😍

The bond between Zack and his brother was so honest and messy, but there’s so much love there. And the dynamic between the three of them was honestly so wholesome. I loved how naturally Hazel fit into their little family🥹

And Hazel… she really got to me.

She’s loud, in-your-face and full of energy, but once you start understanding why she is the way she is, it hits differently. And honestly, with everything Leyla left her with - all those questions, secrets and things she never told her best friend - Hazel handled it SO much better than I ever would have. 😂

The prologue and Hazel’s character really pulled at my heartstrings because I felt so seen in some of her struggles.

I might not be loud like Hazel - I would probably disappear into my own little bubble instead 😂 - but that feeling of feeling everything so deeply and wondering if you’re too much because of it? Feeling like you might be annoying simply because you feel so much? That’s something I struggled with growing up, and I think that’s why her character resonated with me so much. 🥹🖤

Also… can we PLEASE take a moment for that hot as f*ck motorcycle scene?! 🏍️🥵🫠 Because… WOW.

And then there’s Lincoln and his daughter… 👀 I NEED to know more about this single dad. 🤭 There’s clearly more to his story and now I’m way too curious!

🎙️ And then there’s the audiobook. Stephen Dexter and Vivienne LaRue were 10/10. No notes. 👏🏻🎧 They brought these characters to life so well, and I genuinely loved listening to them.

So if you’re picking this one up, I highly recommend going straight for the audio. 🎧🖤

Thank you Must Love Audio for this ALC opportunity in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own🤍

[storieswithlizzy]

Thank you to the author for the advanced copy of this book for my honest review.

Mae did it again.

This sequel delivered everything I’ve come to expect from her writing and more. As the second book in the Whispering Killer Series, this is absolutely not a standalone. You need to read book one first but trust me, it’s worth it because this story does not disappoint.

We follow Zack and Hazel as they unravel a web of mysteries that forces them to confront a past filled with buried trauma and long-held secrets. And what a journey it is.

Zack and Hazel are incredibly layered, emotionally complex characters. Zack is guarded, grumpy, and carries the weight of the world on his shoulders, while Hazel presents as light and sunshine on the surface but underneath, she holds so much pain. The way Mae writes their internal dialogue is powerful. It peels back their layers in such a raw, intimate way that you truly feel immersed in their world.

The balance in this book is so well done. You get sharp, witty banter, deeply emotional moments, and characters you can’t help but love. And the suspense? Unrelenting. Each chapter builds on the last, feeding you just enough to keep you hooked while constantly raising the stakes.

One of the standout elements for me was the trauma representation. It felt honest, raw, and handled with care especially for readers who understand PTSD on a deeper level. It’s not something every author is willing (or able) to explore with this kind of authenticity, and it truly elevated the story.

And let’s talk about the romance because WOW. The chemistry between Hazel and Zack is intense, emotional, and yes… spicy. That motorcycle scene? 🥵 Absolutely unforgettable.

This book delivers on so many beloved tropes: age gap, grumpy x sunshine, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, touch her and die and does it in a way that feels addictive, powerful, and completely immersive.

Hazel and Zack’s story is one I won’t forget anytime soon. This book is gripping, emotional, breathtaking and absolutely worth the ride.

[Bella]

This book completely pulled me in from the very first page and never let go. The Lives of Liars by Mae Roberts is one of those stories that lingers in your mind long after you finish, and I am still thinking about Hazel and everything she has been through.

Hazel is such a beautifully complex character. On the surface she is light and full of warmth, but underneath there is so much pain and mystery. I loved how her layers slowly unraveled throughout the story. It felt real and emotional in a way that made me connect with her deeply. You can feel that something is not right from the beginning, and that tension just keeps building.

Zachary Blake was the perfect contrast to her. Quiet, guarded, and carrying his own weight, he brought this steady intensity to the story that balanced Hazel so well. Their connection felt natural and raw, and I loved watching them slowly break down each other’s walls. The chemistry was there, but it was the emotional depth between them that really stood out.

The suspense in this book was incredible. Every chapter peeled back just enough to keep you guessing, and just when I thought I had things figured out, another twist hit. The storyline surrounding that night and the Whispering Killer was chilling and so well done. It kept me on edge the entire time and made it impossible to put down.

What I loved most was how the story blended emotional depth with a dark, gripping mystery. It was not just about uncovering secrets, but about healing, trust, and finding strength in the truth no matter how terrifying it is.

This was an absolute five star read for me. If you love stories filled with secrets, tension, emotional character growth, and a suspenseful edge that keeps you hooked, you need to pick this up. Mae Roberts delivered something haunting, addictive, and unforgettable.

[Emily Knaus]

WOW. What an absolute wild ride.

This is a twist‑packed, tension‑soaked sequel that raises every stake in The Whispering Killer series.

Lives of Liars throws Hazel and Zach into each other’s orbit when the disappearance of their best friends, Cameron and Leyla, refuses to stay buried. What starts as a reluctant partnership quickly becomes a dangerous unraveling of secrets, lies, and the truth no one wanted to face. Every chapter tightens the noose, and every clue makes you question what you thought you knew.

Hazel is all brightness, she’s sunshine, stubborn hope, and a heart that refuses to harden. Zach is her opposite in every way: broody, closed‑off, and convinced he’s too dark to touch her without staining her. The tension between them is electric, constant, and threaded through every moment they’re forced to work together. It’s the kind of slow-burn pull that makes you read faster just to watch them collide.

The twists are sharp, the pacing feels relentless, and the final pages end on a wild cliffhanger that leaves your stomach dropping and your brain screaming for the next book.

If you love mystery, emotional tension, and opposites‑attract chemistry woven into a dark, twisty plot, this series absolutely delivers!!

A huge thank you to Mae Roberts & Luna Literary for early copy!

[Sammie]

Arc review ❤️‍🔥

4.5 stars..

I had an inkling it would be detective Alexandra!!!
She was so shifty, and so cringe when she kept calling the girls sweetheart and darling and all other ‘cute’ names. Shut up luv 🤫

Hazel + Zach 🫦❤️‍🔥💐🎀

‘Hazel is sunlight, and I am the unexpected storm in the middle of summer.’ ☀️ ☔️

‘only one bed’ one of my fave tropes👀

Such a good book!! Love that book 2 carried on with 2 more main characters, had me hooked and I loved the twists and turns!!

Age gap 🤝🏼
Only one bed 🤝🏼
Grumpy x sunshine 🤝🏼

Do I sense a book 3????
Cam, Leyley, hazel and Zach need to catch her!!!

Was she the whispering killer? Obvs we know cam’s dad was but was she a copy cat? Was never really answered

‘My sunshine, my daisy, my light. I fear I’ve fallen for the one who’s forbidden, and I will stop at nothing to get her back.’ Ughhh we all need a Zach 🫶🏻

‘Because loving her didn’t make me weak—it made me careless in the best possible way.’ Hell yes it did!!!

Also I didn’t rly understand the part when Hazel got kidnapped but he found her so easy and we didn’t hear anything from ‘the whispering killer’ about it?! Or did we? Idk 🤷🏻‍♀️ I go sucked in so bad I forgot some of it ha!

‘love doesn’t protect you from pain, it just gives pain a target.’ 🎯

‘ I want to go home, I think my home is her.’ 🏡 ❤️‍🔥

Could we also maybe get a spin off book for Lincoln???

[Justmyfantasyworld]

"Love doesn't protect you from pain, it just gives pain a target." 🔥🤯

THE LIVES OF LIARS by Mae Roberts ends where the last one kind of started, but in a very different way, and I enjoyed it more than I thought I would. Hazel is sassy and comes over as strong even though she is sensitive, and I really liked how she talks back. 😂

I still feel confused at times because there aren't always things that are clear and the world can feel a bit vague, but I feel like it is intentional because it makes the suspense that much more rewarding. I feel like we finally got the right answers in this story that actually complete the puzzle in a way that I can see it. I NEED the answers that kept getting cut off 🤣😭. And that epilogue?! Crazy. Holy shit. And the things it all means... 🤯

Hazel and Zach are absolute fire together. I love them together and their connection just makes sense, they fit. Their chemistry is also FIRE. Hot damn 🫠.

Wow, the narration was amazing too. The voices of the two narrators blended so well and sounded so good together. I loved it. They really brought this story alive in the right way.

✨️ 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 | ★★★★ | 4.5/5

𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘔𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘈𝘶𝘥𝘪𝘰 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘨𝘪𝘧𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘢 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬. 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘣𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸, 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.

FIND ME HERE • @justmyfantasyworld

[Tiffani Jo]

This romance felt like watching two people play emotional chicken while also being wildly attracted to each other and honestly? Incredible entertainment for me personally.

The tension in this is CONSTANT. Forced proximity, enemies to lovers, only one bed… every trope here works exactly the way I wanted it to because the chemistry never stops simmering. And the grumpy/sunshine dynamic hits especially well when the grumpy one acts like human connection is an inconvenience while very obviously spiraling over one woman.

Sir. Stand up.

Actually no, stay exactly where you are.

The age gap adds this extra layer of tension that keeps everything feeling just a little dangerous emotionally, especially once the walls start slipping and the vulnerability sneaks in underneath all the hostility and attraction. Because beneath all the sharp banter and emotional repression, there is still this aching loneliness in both of them that makes every softer moment land harder.

And honestly?
The way I would have folded in that one bed situation is between me and God.

Tropes

• 🖤 Dark romance
• ⚡ Enemies to lovers
• 🛏 Only one bed
• ☀️ Grumpy x sunshine
• 🏠 Forced proximity
• 🔥 Age gap romance

[Kala]

Ok HOW do I review this book without giving away any spoilers?! 😫

So, this story picks up right at the end of the first book but now in the perspective of new characters. At the end of The Moments You Miss, I assumed one thing and it turns out, it was actually another once we get into the thick of it. I did NOT see that coming!

I was super excited to read about Hazel and Zach. There was so much I wanted to know about Leyla’s happy go lucky but fiercely loyal best friend. And, Cameron’s mysterious and good with a computer best friend Zach. The two go on an adventure to solve a mystery (being vague to avoid spoilers) and there are dangers lurking around the corner. They can’t trust anyone but throughout the story, not only do they start learning to trust each other but, they get to know one another and…let’s just say, sparks are definitely flying with these two!

It’s a crazy mix of mystery, thriller with two characters falling for one another. So, if you’re looking for a dark thriller with major mystery and two opposites trying to figure it all out before time runs out, this one’s for you! Shout out to Vivienne LaRue and Stephen Dexter for voicing these characters 🙌

Thank you so much to Must Love Audio for the ALC for this story!

[shanelle maree]

a͓̽u͓̽d͓̽i͓̽o͓̽ ͓̽r͓̽e͓̽c͓̽ ͓̽&͓̽ ͓̽r͓̽e͓̽v͓̽i͓̽e͓̽w͓̽

🌟:4 🌶️:2.5 🎧:5

Narrated by: Vivienne LaRue & Stephen Dexter in dual

•–•Some tropes I think you’ll love•–•
▪️ grumpy/sunshine
▪️ age gap
▪️ dark romantic suspense
▪️ hurt/comfort

This was everything that I wanted and more in a follow up to The Moments You Miss!! 😍😍

This is book two in the series, and you absolutely need to read the first book in order to fully appreciate this one. The plot is directly linked, though the main couples are different. This is Hazel and Zack’s story, and installing you what it was FILLED to the brim with tension and angst, and mutual pining!! Ugh I loved the way that Zack nearly folded like a house of cards whenever Hazel was near him. 😍 She was certainly testing his strength at denying their chemistry, and I was having such a good time with their banter and the push and pull between them!

I loved the romantic suspense, kind of mystery solving plot in this. It kept me on the edge of seat, and I was just eagerly watching things unfold.

The audiobook for this was fantastic! Narrated in dual by Stephen Dexter and Vivienne LaRue, and they both did incredible as their characters. Both brought them to life seamlessly and added so much to my enjoyment of this book.

Highly recommend!! 💖✨

[sladjana.reads]

3.75 stars

Hazel is hilarious. She calls Zach gramps after their kiss & after she found out he's 38.
Zach is 6'5, tattooed, rides a bike and is a hacker with a southern accent. I really enjoyed their story. These book have thriller vibe and we are looking for the whispering killer. Did we find her... Who knows. I just think the detective is a pawn in a greater scheme. I loved their banter, the one bed. AND DON'T GET ME STARTED ON THE BIKE SCENE. THAT WAS FUCKING HOT. I re-listened to it twice.
"Flip me over, no I want to see you come." Sir say less!!!

Stephen Dexter & Vivienne LaRue did an amazing with the dual narration. The narration isn't the reason for the lack of stars. I felt that there was to much unnecessary talk and description that felt repeditive. It was a fun read, and I was locked in and intrigued to find Leyla & Cameron. I knew they weren't dead.

The confession from the detective didn't really come as a surprise. I was suspicious of her the entire time. But I really liked the little secret she was keeping. I'm going to continue this series. Because HELLO Lincoln... widowed SINGLE daddy. And also i'm looking forward to seeing the story come to an end and see where is the whispering killer.

[SJ]

Okay so after having read book one (which is a must by the way) I couldn't wait to get to this book and luckily I had it ready to devour because I needed answers and was unwell. Like, what do you mean you're just going to leave me like that!?

The mystery and suspense kept me up at night. Mae Roberts is an absolute mastermind. The way I couldn't put this book down, wow.

First of all, I freaking love Hazel and Zack. Not only was their chemistry off the charts, but their dynamic was fantastic. I loved Hazel's inner monologue. This book had some dark humor that legit made me laugh out loud. And the plot, wow, I was on the edge of my seat.

This tangled web of lies gets even more interesting and leads to more questions than before. I seriously can't wait till I get to book 3 because once again, I'm going to lose sleep. This was another wild ride I didn't see coming, and I'm so hooked.


Tropes:
Grumpy + Sunshine
Touch her and ☠️
Age-gap
Forced proximity
One bed
Multiple POV
Check TW

Thank you, Luna Literary and Mae Roberts, for the opportunity to read this book.

[Ashleyschaptersbookclub]

Mae does it AGAIN.

After that cliffhanger in book one, I needed answers immediately and getting to continue the story through new perspectives while Hazel and Zack are trying to figure out what the hell happened to their best friends?? I was STRESSED. The suspense, the secrets, the constant feeling that something was not adding up… I had theories flying everywhere.

And then you get Zack. A hot, guarded, morally gray man AND an age gap? Yup. That’ll do it. Hazel’s sunshine mixed with everything Zack has going on was exactly the combination I needed.

I also absolutely loved the narrators for this one. They brought Hazel and Zack to life so perfectly and made all of the suspense, emotion and tension that much better on audio.

But can we also discuss the fact that I KNEW I couldn’t trust a certain someone?! The vibes were WRONG. I had my suspicions and I am feeling extremely validated right now because I freaking KNEW IT.

Mae really said you thought book one was going to give you trust issues? Cute.

Now I need the next book because apparently peace is not an option with this series.

A huge thank you to Must Love Audio for the gifted ALC!

[✨booktrovertkait ♡]

ALC Review 🎧

The narrators, Vivienne LaRue and Stephen Dexter did such a great job with Hazel and Zack! They really captured their personalities and chemistry, while also bringing the more serious and emotional moments to life.

Tropes-
❤️ Forced Proximity
🖤 Enemies to Lovers
❤️ Only One Bed
🖤 Grumpy x Sunshine
❤️ Age Gap

Book two picks up right where The Moments We Miss leaves us, and I was immediately thrown back into the mystery!

We get a new couple with Hazel and Zack, who are Cameron and Leyla’s best friends from book one. They find themselves trying to piece together what really happened while uncovering even more secrets along the way.

Hazel is such a fun contrast to Zack. She’s sunshine where he’s grumpy, while he’s all broody and protective… and I really loved him! 😂 Hazel is SUCH a riot, and I loved how she constantly pokes fun at Zack. Their banter was so cute, but I also loved how they were both exactly what the other needed. They brought out different sides of each other in the best way.

I have SO many questions that I need answers to because there IS a cliffhanger! I must know what happens next. 😩 Needless to say, I’m excited for book three!

[XenyMarie]

“I'm very adaptable. Like a raccoon with feelings.”

🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧

I will proudly say that I was able to figure out who the Whispering Killer is, but all the other twists? Nope, did not see any of them coming.

I really enjoyed this story and the connection between Hazel and Zach. I loved all the banter and back-and-forth, and how Hazel and Sam became instant besties and ganged up on Zach.

I really enjoyed the narration of this story. Vivienne LaRue and Stephen Dexter were excellent and did a great job of bringing the story to life. The way they could switch between emotions at a moment's notice was phenomenal.

I'm loving all the twists in the series and how the author keeps us on our toes. I can't wait to see what will happen next.

Quote: “I'll start the engine and drive straight into the city, ready to tear it apart piece by piece until I find where they're hiding her. Because I'm not asking for her back. I'm taking her home. My sunshine, my daisy, my light. I fear I've fallen for the one who's forbidden, and I will stop at nothing to get her back.”

[Lo]

Okay what was put into this one that the first was missing for me? More grief? Trauma unraveling? No, The Moments We Miss had that, but something about The Lives of Liars was just BETTER. I can't even explain but it had a tangible nature that was deeper and just MORE.

Very much an "I came for the continuation of the series and left with a ton of emotional devastation and trauma after" kind of read.

Hazel and Zachary had me ready to rip my heart out from the very first page. I wasn't ready to even say goodbye to their friends, like I had a vested interest in their loss. I don't know how Mae Roberts irrevocably attaches you to their hearts, their grief, loss, and depth, but I feel like a black hole exists where this story was.

Like where do I go from here?! I'm sorry but, that was easily one of the most well leveled banter to devastation reads I've read in a long time.

So thank you so much to Luna Literary and Mae Roberts for letting me be an ARC reader for The Lives of Liars, I'm in your debt and will send you my therapy bill soon! xx

[Rhiannon Cheyenne]

The Lives of Liars - Mae Roberts

I devoured this book, just like I did with book 1. The mystery and the tension was absolutely amazing. I loved getting to know Zach and Hazel in book 1 so I’m glad I really meet them in this book alongside some other new characters like Lincoln, Nora, and Sam. I need the 3rd book in my hands like now. That cliffhanger and twists were so well written. I can’t wait to see what else this author writes.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Out of 5 Stars ⭐️

🌶️ / Spice Rating ☀️

# of Pages 🌙 300 Pages

Release Date 🌟 4/13/26

Format 💫 Gifted Digital Copy

Series 🌙 The Whispering, #2

Genre/Tropes ✨ Dark romance, romantic suspense, mystery, age gap, thriller, opposites attract, grumpy x sunshine

Favorite Character ☀️ Zach

Favorite Line 🌟 ‘She’s always been my best friend—my home—and suddenly being told that she’s not gonna be around anymore…my life seems to have lost that light I’ve always been known for’

‘I don’t know how to be loved without pretending to be happy.’

[Teeny Martini]

🎧 ALC Review

Okay THIS was the book that really sold me on the series. Book one is definitely needed for this one to really hit, but omg this was SO much better IMO.

If you loved Jake in Mindfck like I did, you’re going to LOVE Zach. 😭 The smart, techy, always three steps ahead, loyal AF best friend was EXACTLY my type of character. The fact that he knew Cameron well enough to know something wasn’t right and then started piecing together all the clues?! I ate it UP. Zach filled a little Jake-shaped hole in my heart. 😂 The banter and dynamic between Hzael and Zach, chefs kiss.

🎧 Vivienne LaRue and Stephen Dexter narrated, and they both did a great job! This was dual narration again, but clearly this series has me making exceptions because I flew through this audio. 😂

AND ANOTHER CLIFFHANGER?! 😭 Apparently I learned nothing from book one because I still wasn’t prepared. I need book three to give me ALL the answers.

Thank you to Must Love Audio for providing the ALC! 🖤

[Lindsay Jo]

Continuing after The Moments You Miss, this book doesn’t skip a beat. It immediately sucks you in just as quick as book one did, but this time from the view point of the best friends. Hazel and Zack are compelled to figure out the secrets behind a past incident. The emotions they both face internally and together really pulled at my heart a bit. It’s always refreshing when feelings and experiences are relatable and reflected on the page in just the right kind of way.

I absolutely adored the banter from Hazel and brooding from Zack. And OMG ZACK. He’s reserved, protective, techy AND has a motorcycle. What’s not to love?

Murder, grief, mystery and romance with some tasty spice mixed in..…this baby has it all and I can’t recommend this book and this series enough.

Mae and the characters she creates have my heart.

[SinfulReadsByV]

Absolutely addictive writing, Mae 👏🏼 You once again created something special within these pages! I loved the first book, of course… but I think I’m even more in love with these two characters. And that one scene? Whew 🥵 The characters, with all their flaws, added so much depth and made the twists hit even harder. I found myself following every trail Mae left, building up my own theories—and she did not disappoint. I’m keeping this vague so I don’t give anything away, because you really need to experience this book for yourself.

Side note: Have you seen the art for this book? So good. And the cover is definitely another favorite for me.

Tropes:
TOUCH HER AND 💀
AGE GAP (he’s 38 she’s 26)
HE 💦 IN HIS PANTS. (twice)
FORCED PROXIMITY ❤️
GRUMPY X SUNSHINE ☀️
ENEMIES TO LOVERS 🖤
TRAUMA REP ❤️
ONLY ONE BED 🛌

[Mandy Cappelletti]

Special thank you to Luna Literary and authormaeroberts for an advance copy of this book in exchange for my review.
All I can say is Mae did it again! I’m emotionally scarred and not mad about it. The Lives of Liars is book two in The Whispering Killer series. Take note, this book is not a standalone! The Lives of Liars was such a roller coaster ride. I was so invested in this story, I devoured the book in one sitting. There are elements of thriller, suspense and romance in this story, some of my favorite things! Zack and Hazel are wonderful together and the tension of a slow burn makes it so much better. I can’t say much as this book picks up where book one ended on an INSANE cliffhanger, but rest assured, it’s amazing, incredible, romantic, sexy and will leave you on the edge of your seat.

[Midnight Tails and Chapters]

Dark, twisty, and packed with tension, this was a gripping romantic suspense read. Hazel and Zack have that classic opposites-attract energy, she’s sunshine on the surface hiding deep pain, while he’s guarded, broody, and carrying more than he says. Their chemistry builds through shared trauma, sharp banter, and slow-burn vulnerability that felt earned.

The mystery element keeps the pages turning, with secrets, disappearances, and the shadow of the Whispering Killer creating constant unease. Each chapter gives you just enough to stay hooked while raising the stakes.

I also appreciated how the book handled trauma, grief, and mental health with care, giving the story emotional depth beyond the suspense.

Some plot threads could have gone deeper for me, but overall this was an addictive read with strong tension and a cliffhanger ending that will make you groan.

[Madison Lawson]

Mae Roberts returns to Maplewood with The Lives of Liars, a gripping continuation of the Whispering series that dives deeper into the secrets, grief, and dangerous truths left behind after book one’s explosive ending. Through Hazel and Zack’s perspectives, Roberts masterfully blends dark romance, mystery, and razor-sharp tension as two unlikely allies chase answers that refuse to stay buried. Their banter crackles, their chemistry burns, and the emotional weight of loyalty, loss, and love keeps the pages turning. Twisty, addictive, and impossible to put down, The Lives of Liars proves Roberts knows exactly how to balance heartbreak, heat, and suspense and it definitely leaves readers breathless and desperate for more! 10/10 would recommend to a friend