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Falcon Global #2
Bitter Lies
Bitter Lies is part of a duet and
must be read
in order. The story concludes in Brutal Truths.
I don’t get distracted. It’s the only way to survive the life I’ve built—one where loyalty is bought in blood and mistakes aren’t forgiven.
No attachments. No complications.
Then I meet Dr. Isabel Lopez.
She’s bold enough to get herself into trouble, curious when she should walk away, and far too trusting of a man like me. A perfect recipe for disaster.
I’m no better. I’ve told myself this is only temporary, and I’ll walk away before it matters. That’s a lie I end up choking on.
The truth I uncover ties her to everything I’ve been sent to destroy. Every step I take puts her closer to the fallout. Walking away now won’t keep her safe.
I’m left with a choice I never planned for.
Finish the job… or protect the one person who could bring it all down.
I don’t get distracted. It’s the only way to survive the life I’ve built—one where loyalty is bought in blood and mistakes aren’t forgiven.
No attachments. No complications.
Then I meet Dr. Isabel Lopez.
She’s bold enough to get herself into trouble, curious when she should walk away, and far too trusting of a man like me. A perfect recipe for disaster.
I’m no better. I’ve told myself this is only temporary, and I’ll walk away before it matters. That’s a lie I end up choking on.
The truth I uncover ties her to everything I’ve been sent to destroy. Every step I take puts her closer to the fallout. Walking away now won’t keep her safe.
I’m left with a choice I never planned for.
Finish the job… or protect the one person who could bring it all down.
305 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 23, 2026
About the author
C.R. Riley
34 books102 followersC. R. Riley doesn’t believe in rules when it comes to romance. Her books are bold, emotional, and unapologetically steamy, spanning tropes like enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, secret pasts, and forbidden attraction. What ties them all together? Deep emotional connection, crackling sexual tension, and characters who love like it’s the only thing keeping them alive.
Writing across sub-genres, C. R. thrives in the chaos of big emotions, tough choices, and the kind of love that doesn’t come easy—but always feels earned. Her goal is simple: give readers stories they feel in their chest and remember long after the final page.
Writing across sub-genres, C. R. thrives in the chaos of big emotions, tough choices, and the kind of love that doesn’t come easy—but always feels earned. Her goal is simple: give readers stories they feel in their chest and remember long after the final page.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
July 24, 2026
I enjoyed reading this book. I’m excited for the next one. The cliffhanger that this book was left on. I’m so excited that the wait isn’t long.
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
July 23, 2026
CR Riley has completely outdone herself with Bitter Lies, the second book in the Falcon Global series and the first half of her very first duet. If you thought you knew where this story was heading, think again!
This book is everything I love about romantic suspense—intense, addictive, and impossible to put down. Every chapter delivers another twist, another secret, and another reason to keep turning the pages. The mystery surrounding Aiden had me hooked from the very beginning, while Dr. Isabel Lopez is a heroine whose strength and determination make her impossible not to root for.
The chemistry between Aiden and Isabel crackles from the moment they’re together, but it’s the secrets, danger, and emotional tension that truly make their story unforgettable. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, CR Riley pulled the rug out from under me with a heart-stopping, jaw-dropping cliffhanger that literally left me gasping. How am I supposed to wait after that ending?
This is romantic suspense at its absolute best—captivating, emotional, packed with intrigue, and filled with characters you can’t help but become invested in. CR Riley has proved that her first duet is going to be something truly special, and I cannot wait to see how Aiden and Isabel’s story unfolds.
If you love romance with sizzling chemistry, edge-of-your-seat suspense, shocking twists, and endings that leave your heart racing, then Bitter Lies deserves a place at the top of your TBR.
This book is everything I love about romantic suspense—intense, addictive, and impossible to put down. Every chapter delivers another twist, another secret, and another reason to keep turning the pages. The mystery surrounding Aiden had me hooked from the very beginning, while Dr. Isabel Lopez is a heroine whose strength and determination make her impossible not to root for.
The chemistry between Aiden and Isabel crackles from the moment they’re together, but it’s the secrets, danger, and emotional tension that truly make their story unforgettable. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, CR Riley pulled the rug out from under me with a heart-stopping, jaw-dropping cliffhanger that literally left me gasping. How am I supposed to wait after that ending?
This is romantic suspense at its absolute best—captivating, emotional, packed with intrigue, and filled with characters you can’t help but become invested in. CR Riley has proved that her first duet is going to be something truly special, and I cannot wait to see how Aiden and Isabel’s story unfolds.
If you love romance with sizzling chemistry, edge-of-your-seat suspense, shocking twists, and endings that leave your heart racing, then Bitter Lies deserves a place at the top of your TBR.
July 24, 2026
Must Read!
"Bitter Lies" is the second book in the Falcon Global series duet, and it ends on a cliffhanger that leaves you eagerly wanting the next installment. I had no idea what I was getting into with Aiden and Isabel, but they completely drew me into their world. I found myself hooked and could not stop reading, racing through the pages as each twist and turn and every secret revealed only made me crave more of Aiden and Isabel's journey. Aiden's need to protect Isabel adds an element of danger for both of them.
The connection between Isabel and Aiden is beautifully slow-burning, filled with tension that is both intense and satisfying. C.R. Riley has done an outstanding job with character development and in creating a world that is so easy to get lost in. Now, after being left on an incredible cliffhanger, we are all left patiently waiting for the next book to finally answer all our questions.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
"Bitter Lies" is the second book in the Falcon Global series duet, and it ends on a cliffhanger that leaves you eagerly wanting the next installment. I had no idea what I was getting into with Aiden and Isabel, but they completely drew me into their world. I found myself hooked and could not stop reading, racing through the pages as each twist and turn and every secret revealed only made me crave more of Aiden and Isabel's journey. Aiden's need to protect Isabel adds an element of danger for both of them.
The connection between Isabel and Aiden is beautifully slow-burning, filled with tension that is both intense and satisfying. C.R. Riley has done an outstanding job with character development and in creating a world that is so easy to get lost in. Now, after being left on an incredible cliffhanger, we are all left patiently waiting for the next book to finally answer all our questions.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 26, 2026
This book is incredible and might be one of my new favorites. CR writes amazing stories that grab your attention from the first word to the last. I really enjoyed this story…filled with action, suspense, passion and a cliffhanger (we were warned).
Aiden and Isabel have an undeniable attraction but take their time…as their relationship is complicated. They shouldn’t be together, both have secrets and burdens they are working through. Yet, together they form a strong partnership.
“There’s only one person I want, and she’s a stubborn woman who drives me to my breaking point.”
Their banter, chemistry and protectiveness makes this story so good. There are twists and turns that keep you guessing….counting down the days until Brutal Truths lands on my
Kindle!
“I’ve never been more sure about anything in my life. I need you, Aiden. I need to feel something besides sadness.”
Aiden and Isabel have an undeniable attraction but take their time…as their relationship is complicated. They shouldn’t be together, both have secrets and burdens they are working through. Yet, together they form a strong partnership.
“There’s only one person I want, and she’s a stubborn woman who drives me to my breaking point.”
Their banter, chemistry and protectiveness makes this story so good. There are twists and turns that keep you guessing….counting down the days until Brutal Truths lands on my
Kindle!
“I’ve never been more sure about anything in my life. I need you, Aiden. I need to feel something besides sadness.”
July 27, 2026
I’m not usually into suspense but CR Riley is an amazing writer so I gave it a try, and it got me hooked from the start. There’s always so much going on that we just want to keep reading to see if we get some answers. So many twists. All the ties that are not tied yet!!!! Grandma and grandpa, the Doyle brothers, the bodyguards. OMG!!!!! I’m sooo looking forward to the next one!!!
July 30, 2026
Okkaayyyyyyy I was hooked from the start with the mafia vibes, tension, and addictive chemistry. I was so intrigued and kept turning pages! The emotional moments hit just as hard as the action. That ending absolutely leaves you needing the next book immediately. I can’t wait to see how everything unfolds in Brutal Truths. 🖤📚
July 23, 2026
I picked up this book and couldn't put it down until I finished it. Now I'm left waiting for the next book and I don't know if I am going to survive the wait. I love the characters, I love the tension, and I love that there is another book on the way. Do yourself a favor and grab a copy today.
July 29, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the chemistry between Aiden and Isabel, and I really liked the different times they randomly met. I liked how Aiden keeps trying to tell Isabel he’s not a good guy, but she has a pull toward him that she can’t ignore.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is a wonderfully twisty and thrilling read. Aiden and Isobel have a high-heat chemistry and an instant connection that intrigues and delights. Neither is the person they appear to be on the surface and have plenty of secrets in their pasts that spill into their present. Aiden is surprised by his connection to Isobel and his intense need to protect her even though it could expose his undercover mission and put them both at peril. Isobel is equally surprised and also dismayed at her attraction to Aiden, and at the feeling of safety and rightness she feels in his presence. His connection to a dangerous crime family is especially concerning to her family who are doing their best to keep her safe while giving her the space she needs to pursue medicine. Her own concern for her grandparents is deep-seated and unwavering, but her grandmother’s deteriorating memory serves to reveal secrets that Isobel has never been privy to. Someone is watching, waiting and willing to take action as those secrets come to light. Isobel has a target on her back, as Aiden realizes a bit too late. Can he find and rescue her or is she gone from his life for good?
This book ends on a cliff hanger which leaves me eagerly awaiting the next book. I can’t wait to find out what happens next for Aiden and Isobel. The author has successfully woven a tale that has mesmerized and left her readers wanting more. I give this excellent book my full recommendation.
This book ends on a cliff hanger which leaves me eagerly awaiting the next book. I can’t wait to find out what happens next for Aiden and Isobel. The author has successfully woven a tale that has mesmerized and left her readers wanting more. I give this excellent book my full recommendation.
July 24, 2026
When Ms. Riley tells you this is book one of a duet, be prepared to keep wanting to turn the pages even though there are no more pages to turn. She has gone beyond what I expected in this captivating, suspenseful romance filled with twists and turns, emotions, and angst, featuring two MCs who are opposites yet perfect for one another.
Isabel and Aiden have chemistry from the first introduction. She is a princess who is a doctor and he is an ex-military man who works for the Irish Mafia - or so we are led to believe. The two of them, when they are together, set the pages on fire, even when danger is just around the corner. As I was trying to figure out why he was so adamant that he was to keep Isabel safe, I continued to read; more of the puzzle pieces fell into place. Just when I thought I had a grasp on what was happening and maybe who was involved, Ms. Riley threw a wrench in my thought process.
Be aware that this book ends with a big cliffhanger that will leave you wanting to call her and tell her to hurry up with book two.
Isabel and Aiden have chemistry from the first introduction. She is a princess who is a doctor and he is an ex-military man who works for the Irish Mafia - or so we are led to believe. The two of them, when they are together, set the pages on fire, even when danger is just around the corner. As I was trying to figure out why he was so adamant that he was to keep Isabel safe, I continued to read; more of the puzzle pieces fell into place. Just when I thought I had a grasp on what was happening and maybe who was involved, Ms. Riley threw a wrench in my thought process.
Be aware that this book ends with a big cliffhanger that will leave you wanting to call her and tell her to hurry up with book two.
July 23, 2026
- Romantic suspense
- Royalty romance
- Secrets
- Instant attraction
- Forbidden romance
- Morally grey
This story is so fast paced that I didn't realize I was nearly through it in one day. The characters, Izzy (Isabel) and Aiden, are interesting and complex. The plot had enough suspense elements to keep me glued to the pages. The chemistry between Izzy and Aiden nearly burned said pages. Whew.
There is so many secrets to Aiden that I couldn't wait to learn more! I held my breath at the end though. Even after the note that there was going to be a cliffy, I was still surprised. I hope the next book comes out quickly, because oooof.
Princess Isabel is such a great character as well. She has a drive to prove herself and help others, despite her background. I love a strong heroine!
I am eagerly awaiting the next book!!!!
- Royalty romance
- Secrets
- Instant attraction
- Forbidden romance
- Morally grey
This story is so fast paced that I didn't realize I was nearly through it in one day. The characters, Izzy (Isabel) and Aiden, are interesting and complex. The plot had enough suspense elements to keep me glued to the pages. The chemistry between Izzy and Aiden nearly burned said pages. Whew.
There is so many secrets to Aiden that I couldn't wait to learn more! I held my breath at the end though. Even after the note that there was going to be a cliffy, I was still surprised. I hope the next book comes out quickly, because oooof.
Princess Isabel is such a great character as well. She has a drive to prove herself and help others, despite her background. I love a strong heroine!
I am eagerly awaiting the next book!!!!
August 1, 2026
Perfection, just absolute perfection!’ A emotional rollercoaster that literally hooks you from the very first page and does not let go !! Let me just say I absolutely adored this story so freaking much . The degree to which I found myself utterly invested in Isabel and Aiden’s characters and their story - cannot even be put into words . All the feelings I found myself reeling from , speechless, yelling outta frustration, anticipating what would happen from one moment to the next , smiling, laughing, crying and cheering so freaking hard . Add into that the action, the mystery, the spice , the intrigue and suspense, the moments that will pull on all your hearings . I genuinely could not get enough of this incredible book !!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Aiden and Isabel were just the best. They play against each other that leads to delicious drama and a few surprises.
Aiden had big decisions to make on what to do but Isabel is ignorant about. But they are working towards the same goal.
Perfect to see some older characters as well as the new. Helped add depth to the story.
A fantastic read and Wow that cliffhanger had me hanging out for the ending of the duet just to see where the author takes these two. Can't wait for more!!
Aiden had big decisions to make on what to do but Isabel is ignorant about. But they are working towards the same goal.
Perfect to see some older characters as well as the new. Helped add depth to the story.
A fantastic read and Wow that cliffhanger had me hanging out for the ending of the duet just to see where the author takes these two. Can't wait for more!!
July 26, 2026
This is the second book in the Falcon Global series. The first book in the series must be read so that you can understand the plot.
The book is based on Isabel and Aiden. Isabel is a princess who is training to be a doctor and Aiden is an Irish mobster. These two work on paper, they set that paper on fire with their spices 😰 🌶️🌶️🌶️ and I didn't want to put the book down. This is the second book in a duet which is completed with the next book. I cannot wait for the next book!
The book is based on Isabel and Aiden. Isabel is a princess who is training to be a doctor and Aiden is an Irish mobster. These two work on paper, they set that paper on fire with their spices 😰 🌶️🌶️🌶️ and I didn't want to put the book down. This is the second book in a duet which is completed with the next book. I cannot wait for the next book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a cliffhanger!! I can't wait for the next book to get the answers that have been hinted at.
I really enjoyed this book. I love the chemistry between Aiden and Isabella as well as the special appearances of beloved characters. With the suspense elements keeping me guessing, this really was an entertaining book.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book. I love the chemistry between Aiden and Isabella as well as the special appearances of beloved characters. With the suspense elements keeping me guessing, this really was an entertaining book.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Bitter Lies is the exciting first book in C.R. Riley's new Falcon Global Series Duet.
The chemistry between Aiden and Isabel is off the charts from the moment they meet.
This book is full of mystery and suspense that keep you on the edge of your seat guessing what will come next. And that cliffhanger? Ma'am!! I need book 2 ASAP!!
The chemistry between Aiden and Isabel is off the charts from the moment they meet.
This book is full of mystery and suspense that keep you on the edge of your seat guessing what will come next. And that cliffhanger? Ma'am!! I need book 2 ASAP!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
It’s spicy, thrilling, and such a great read that it seriously kept me on edge. Isabel is a royal doctor-in-training, and Aiden is a mysterious bad boy trying to protect her from his world. And that cliffhanger? I'm still reeling, and I cannot wait for the next book—definitely a must-read!
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advanced copy.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advanced copy.
July 23, 2026
This was a perfect darkness level for me. The suspense was spot on and kept me intrigued.
My only complaint? She ruined me for the weekend. I had light-hearted books up next on my TBR and could not enjoy them.
All I want to know is what happens next. I am definitely more than ready for the next one!
My only complaint? She ruined me for the weekend. I had light-hearted books up next on my TBR and could not enjoy them.
All I want to know is what happens next. I am definitely more than ready for the next one!
July 26, 2026
Okay princess, action, mystery, spice and suspense I'll take it. Then we get a knockout cliffhanger because what the heck. Isabel although with all her efforts to go down fighting ugh that cliffy had me on edge. And I was not expecting it to go down that way. Meanwhile Aiden is making his own mysteries. Good grief next book please.
Review of advance copy received from Author
OMG!!! This book was so good. I love a good smutty book with a little mystery. I hate that it ended in a cliffhanger but that's what makes it so awesome. Can't wait for the conclusion because Aiden is going to have someone's head.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy
Bitter Lies left me needing to know what happens in Brutal Truths. That cliffhanger was wow and now I have a book hangover. Best Book yet from CR Riley.
Review of advance copy received from Author
OMG!!! This story will keep you engrossed through out and into the cliffhanger. One of C R Riley's best storyline.Can't wait for the next one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
OMG you can’t leave me hanging like this. Good thing it’s not a long wait for the next book. Isabel and Aiden ❤️🔥. Honestly no more needs to be said. She the princess that is a Dr in training, he’s a bit of an enigma. He’s a bad guy, but is he. This story drew me in and now I want more. Bring it on. Enjoy
July 28, 2026
This was a great read. It does end on a cliffhanger but it is so worth it. This book is addictive. I can't wait for the next book to see how it all works out.
This is a voluntary review.
This is a voluntary review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a Mafia story of love and lies. Keeping secrets is the easy part but keeping two faces is getting harder to hold. He wants her but knows he needs to stay away, easy said than done, to keep her alive and out of his world.
She knows he isn't what or who the royal family would want for someone in her position, but she really doesn't care, she wants him because he feels like safety and he's sexy, knows his way around her body he's become her addiction.
The heart what the heart wants no matter who or what they say they are or the danger one may be put in because of the other.
She knows he isn't what or who the royal family would want for someone in her position, but she really doesn't care, she wants him because he feels like safety and he's sexy, knows his way around her body he's become her addiction.
The heart what the heart wants no matter who or what they say they are or the danger one may be put in because of the other.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my is all I can say! This book was a page turner and ends in the dreaded cliffhanger. Now I eagerly await the conclusion of Aiden and Isabel's story. There are so many connections that are making themselves known and quite a few shockers that are being revealed. Aiden feels the need to protect Isabel and this could endanger both of them. Aiden is not all that he seems to the world and Isabel sees that and trusts him.
The relationship is complicated but is moving at a slower pace, more realistic, than some of the books on the market today. That doesn't mean that there is not heat and spice but this is as much about the story as it is about the relationship. I honestly didn't want to stop reading to see what was revealed. The next book cannot come soon enough!
The relationship is complicated but is moving at a slower pace, more realistic, than some of the books on the market today. That doesn't mean that there is not heat and spice but this is as much about the story as it is about the relationship. I honestly didn't want to stop reading to see what was revealed. The next book cannot come soon enough!
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews