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Seeking Asylum #1
The Sinner and the Liar
Sin is a hard man caught in a crumbling city filled with crime. After losing the love of his life, Sin feels like he has nothing left to live for. Drifting through life, he takes on mercenary jobs by day and drinks away the memories of a happier time at night. Life has no color and little direction until he saves a gorgeous young man from a vicious attack. Sin doesn't trust anything that's too good to be true, but resisting the determined and seemingly innocent young man presents the first challenge Sin has had in ages. Eastyn brings brightness and humor to Sin’s previously dark and grim world, but there’s far more to Eastyn than he lets on.
Eastyn is trapped, a victim of circumstance, and he wants only to find a way out. He gambles everything to bend one dangerous man to his will in order to escape another. Falling in love was never part of that plan, but Sin gives him something he’s never had before: hope. With Sin, he suddenly has the power to become the person he has always wanted to be. He feels like he finally has a chance to escape, but how far is he willing to go to get what he wants?
In a fractured city poised between order and chaos, two men find in each other the last things either expect to find: friendship, acceptance, happiness, passion, and the chance at love stronger than the evil that surrounds them. But claiming and keeping that love will be the riskiest thing either of them will ever have to do. As a gang threatens to overtake the city, Sin is forced to decide if he will remain stuck in the past or open his heart to the man who has found his way into his life. Because Eastyn is unlike anyone he’s ever met before, and he might be the very thing needed to save Sin from himself.
The Sinner and the Liar is a 107k word gritty romance with a side of humor set in the wreckage of a city recovering from war. It has two heroes who refuse to give up, even when they should, snarky dialogue, steamy sex, and a love that is strong enough to overcome even the most impossible of odds.
Eastyn is trapped, a victim of circumstance, and he wants only to find a way out. He gambles everything to bend one dangerous man to his will in order to escape another. Falling in love was never part of that plan, but Sin gives him something he’s never had before: hope. With Sin, he suddenly has the power to become the person he has always wanted to be. He feels like he finally has a chance to escape, but how far is he willing to go to get what he wants?
In a fractured city poised between order and chaos, two men find in each other the last things either expect to find: friendship, acceptance, happiness, passion, and the chance at love stronger than the evil that surrounds them. But claiming and keeping that love will be the riskiest thing either of them will ever have to do. As a gang threatens to overtake the city, Sin is forced to decide if he will remain stuck in the past or open his heart to the man who has found his way into his life. Because Eastyn is unlike anyone he’s ever met before, and he might be the very thing needed to save Sin from himself.
The Sinner and the Liar is a 107k word gritty romance with a side of humor set in the wreckage of a city recovering from war. It has two heroes who refuse to give up, even when they should, snarky dialogue, steamy sex, and a love that is strong enough to overcome even the most impossible of odds.
374 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 2, 2019
198 people are currently reading
694 people want to read
About the author
Alice Winters
62 books2,752 followersAlice Winters started writing stories as soon as she was old enough to turn her ideas into written words. She loves writing a variety of things from romance and comedy to action. She also enjoys reading, horseback riding, and spending time with her pets.
Follow me on Facebook where I put up short stories, teasers, and giveaways: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Alice...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
April 18, 2019
4.5 stars
This was a win from new-to-me author Alice Winters. Apparently darker than her usual fare, it's set in America after the Third World War, within a walled off city that is slowly falling to the vicious rule of gang leader Sawyer. Sin is a former cop who now takes jobs from them - mostly things they can't or don't want to handle, including dealing with Sawyer. When Sin saves Eastyn from an attack in an alley, his routine, lonely life is thrown into turmoil.
Eastyn quickly works his way under Sin's skin with his snark and his persistence. But all is not what it seems. His secrets slowly come out as the two find they have a common problem that is becoming more dangerous the closer they get to each other.
There is plenty of violence, banter and sex. Even with the dangerous and depressing situation they are in, there is also plenty of absurd byplay between Sin and Eastyn. Some of their conversations and scenes had me laughing at just how ridiculous yet endearing they were as young Eastyn steamrolls over growly alpha Sin.
The story had a couple of unexpected twists and though I occasionally found some thoughts to be repetitive, I found myself reading this straight through. I'll be looking forward to the next book and meanwhile I'll be checking out the lighter side of Alice Winters' backlist.
This was a win from new-to-me author Alice Winters. Apparently darker than her usual fare, it's set in America after the Third World War, within a walled off city that is slowly falling to the vicious rule of gang leader Sawyer. Sin is a former cop who now takes jobs from them - mostly things they can't or don't want to handle, including dealing with Sawyer. When Sin saves Eastyn from an attack in an alley, his routine, lonely life is thrown into turmoil.
Eastyn quickly works his way under Sin's skin with his snark and his persistence. But all is not what it seems. His secrets slowly come out as the two find they have a common problem that is becoming more dangerous the closer they get to each other.
There is plenty of violence, banter and sex. Even with the dangerous and depressing situation they are in, there is also plenty of absurd byplay between Sin and Eastyn. Some of their conversations and scenes had me laughing at just how ridiculous yet endearing they were as young Eastyn steamrolls over growly alpha Sin.
The story had a couple of unexpected twists and though I occasionally found some thoughts to be repetitive, I found myself reading this straight through. I'll be looking forward to the next book and meanwhile I'll be checking out the lighter side of Alice Winters' backlist.
December 9, 2019
This is a dark and gritty read. The world that’s been created here has an oppressive hopelessness to it.
After the third world war, America went to shit. In most cities, like the city of Asylum, the people banded together, creating a cesspool of drug dealers, prostitutes, and the rich. Some of the cities were safe havens during the war, including this one. They created a wall around it and called it Asylum since it was a city built to protect. Whether the wall was to keep the others out or people from leaving, I’m not sure. But when the war ended, they didn’t tear down the walls. Now they’re used to block us from the rest of the world, and we’re left pretending like this walled city is its own land with its own rulers and rules.
It’s a desolate place and Sin’s life is depressing.
Same thing, day after day.
I wake up, work, drink, sleep. Sometimes I find someone to fuck, but even that’s gotten boring.
Rinse and repeat.
There is nothing left for me anymore. I hate being at home, hate facing that empty place alone. I used to care about nothing more than getting home. Lucas would take this dark world and make it worth living. But now… now that he’s gone, I’m not sure there’s anything worth living for. When I lost him, he took everything with him. And left me here to rot.
The brightness comes in the form of Eastyn. He lights up the pages and brings life back to Sin.
I loved these two characters. And while this book didn’t completely win me over I’m so glad I read it.
The problem was I just wanted these two to work. But at times it felt like it was taking too long.
This didn’t completely hold me. It’s probably me not the book. After all it’s darker than my usual read. That said I’m hoping for more.
September 26, 2019
This was a pretty gritty read with a pace and anxiety level that didn’t quit ! Had a dystopian feel to it even though it was a cops vs bad guys story with Sin as the main character... clearly a little of both 😊
June 6, 2020
Wow! I'm not sure what I was expecting but it wasn't this book - although that turned out to be better than okay because I loved this book! The world was dark and gritty and even though the characters had some dark things in their lives the worst parts were fade to black and it didn't read as a really dark angsty book for me. The characters had a lot of depth and were very interesting and I absolutely loved them together. The book was set in a dystopian world although that wasn't a big part of the book - the city reminded me of Gothem. There were bits of humor and lots of action. Can't wait to read another book in this series.
April 11, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Alice Winters has become a go-to author for me and The Sinner and the Liar illustrates why. She has given us one of her trademark couples, pairing the stoic, grumpy Sin with the more lively, bratty Eastyn and setting them up with a complex and engaging challenge they must overcome. I’ll be honest, I have a total soft spot for a bratty MC and Winters once again gives us a great one with Eastyn. He just loves to push all Sin’s buttons, and while Sin can’t figure out quite why he indulges Eastyn, there is something so fun about watching this gruff, grumpy man who is built like a tank and has everyone else running in fear, allow this small, young guy to boss him around. This book has a darker edge for sure, and this playfulness and the at times downright absurdity of their interactions gives such a nice balance to the story. I loved seeing Sin’s softer side come out when he deals with Eastyn and while part of him can’t quite understand why he can’t let Eastyn go, it is clear he would do anything for the man.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Alice Winters has become a go-to author for me and The Sinner and the Liar illustrates why. She has given us one of her trademark couples, pairing the stoic, grumpy Sin with the more lively, bratty Eastyn and setting them up with a complex and engaging challenge they must overcome. I’ll be honest, I have a total soft spot for a bratty MC and Winters once again gives us a great one with Eastyn. He just loves to push all Sin’s buttons, and while Sin can’t figure out quite why he indulges Eastyn, there is something so fun about watching this gruff, grumpy man who is built like a tank and has everyone else running in fear, allow this small, young guy to boss him around. This book has a darker edge for sure, and this playfulness and the at times downright absurdity of their interactions gives such a nice balance to the story. I loved seeing Sin’s softer side come out when he deals with Eastyn and while part of him can’t quite understand why he can’t let Eastyn go, it is clear he would do anything for the man.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
April 11, 2019
4.5 Stars. This is a good book. I really enjoyed it. Engaging MC's, good storytelling, hot sexy times, strong editing and an interesting plot.
I've come to appreciate this author and her characters. The interrelationship and byplay is fun and still true to the characters. It's refreshing.
I've come to appreciate this author and her characters. The interrelationship and byplay is fun and still true to the characters. It's refreshing.
May 13, 2025
Let me start by saying I usually love Alice Winters books, most of then I give 4*, i read all of her books, this series was my last one, that said :
At first when finishing this book I was like "oh not my cup of tea but solid 3 stars".
But the more I thought about the book the more I realized something was bothering me... And then puff...
Eastyn is the most free of prisoners. Let me explain : According to the book Sawyer (the captor) is bad bad news, he's fixated on Eastyn, he does so much bad things to that boy , he's also very protective (in a bad way) and obsessed (in a worst way) of something he feels its his... But at the same time Eastyn have free reign to go wherever he wants in the house (mansion really), he manages to leave the house when he wants, day, night, you name it, and in a highly guarded, gang filled house and no one notes it, not even his captor...
He are told that his captor doesn't notice him gone because Eastyn have the habit of hide inside the house so when Sawyer doesn't find him he thinks he's "hiding".
Yeah, sorry but that makes no sense, why would Sawyer even let him hide? He are told that he have no patience for acts of defiance but he let's Eastyn go missing for days at times just cause?
It really makes my brain itch how this big plot hole exists. I mean if you can suspend the disbelief enough that a prisoner can roam free in the house, can sneak in and out at almost every time even with amazing security, gang members always in-out too and it's not like 10min going to buy gum and comeback, it's during hours like from the beginning of the night to the a.m, he also can hide when he doesn't want to deal with his captor (although sometimes he does deal with him when his captor finds him by chance).
Yeah, this makes no freaking sense... So I have to give it two stars
At first when finishing this book I was like "oh not my cup of tea but solid 3 stars".
But the more I thought about the book the more I realized something was bothering me... And then puff...
Eastyn is the most free of prisoners. Let me explain : According to the book Sawyer (the captor) is bad bad news, he's fixated on Eastyn, he does so much bad things to that boy , he's also very protective (in a bad way) and obsessed (in a worst way) of something he feels its his... But at the same time Eastyn have free reign to go wherever he wants in the house (mansion really), he manages to leave the house when he wants, day, night, you name it, and in a highly guarded, gang filled house and no one notes it, not even his captor...
He are told that his captor doesn't notice him gone because Eastyn have the habit of hide inside the house so when Sawyer doesn't find him he thinks he's "hiding".
Yeah, sorry but that makes no sense, why would Sawyer even let him hide? He are told that he have no patience for acts of defiance but he let's Eastyn go missing for days at times just cause?
It really makes my brain itch how this big plot hole exists. I mean if you can suspend the disbelief enough that a prisoner can roam free in the house, can sneak in and out at almost every time even with amazing security, gang members always in-out too and it's not like 10min going to buy gum and comeback, it's during hours like from the beginning of the night to the a.m, he also can hide when he doesn't want to deal with his captor (although sometimes he does deal with him when his captor finds him by chance).
Yeah, this makes no freaking sense... So I have to give it two stars
April 2, 2019
When you find a book that makes you laugh, cry and hold your sit for the emotional and action packed ride, you know you got the jackpot... and jeez, this book has all that and so much more!!!
Sin is closed off, he doesn't need anyone, he doesn't want anyone... people are afraid of him... and that's how he likes it... until a small guy, one that he was not even sure was of age, draw his attention... something on the guy called to Sin... the guy was like a light beacon on this grey world... but Sin wouldn't let himself be drawn to him... or so he thought...
Eastyn was so much more than the eye could see... he was innocent but also tenacious, strong but also fragile, funny but aggravating... he was all that Sin didn't know he wanted and needed...
These two mcs have a really turbulent and near heart stopping journey to fulfill... one that will keep you glued to every page of this awesome book...
a huge 5**** read
Sin is closed off, he doesn't need anyone, he doesn't want anyone... people are afraid of him... and that's how he likes it... until a small guy, one that he was not even sure was of age, draw his attention... something on the guy called to Sin... the guy was like a light beacon on this grey world... but Sin wouldn't let himself be drawn to him... or so he thought...
Eastyn was so much more than the eye could see... he was innocent but also tenacious, strong but also fragile, funny but aggravating... he was all that Sin didn't know he wanted and needed...
These two mcs have a really turbulent and near heart stopping journey to fulfill... one that will keep you glued to every page of this awesome book...
a huge 5**** read
April 4, 2023
2.5
I'm not sure what to make of this one.
It was really hard to follow and none of the characters had much depth to them.
I didn't feel the connection between Sin and Eastyn whatsoever, and I also didn't feel connected to either character so I didn't particularly care what the outcome was.
The way the conflict was resolved just seemed too easy after going on for over 90% of the book ... James's actions at the end were weird and totally unexplained also.
I liked the idea of the story world and the story sounded interesting from the blurb but it just feels like it was under delivered - there wasn't even any typical Alice Winters humour!
I'm not sure what to make of this one.
It was really hard to follow and none of the characters had much depth to them.
I didn't feel the connection between Sin and Eastyn whatsoever, and I also didn't feel connected to either character so I didn't particularly care what the outcome was.
The way the conflict was resolved just seemed too easy after going on for over 90% of the book ... James's actions at the end were weird and totally unexplained also.
I liked the idea of the story world and the story sounded interesting from the blurb but it just feels like it was under delivered - there wasn't even any typical Alice Winters humour!
April 25, 2019
The Sinner and the Liar
Arc courtesy of LesCourt
All reviews are voluntary, and my honest opinion.
This book is f**king amazing.
If I could get you guys to read one book I've reviewed so far this year, it would be this one.
It started out normal -- Sin is a badass! Yay, I enjoy badasses. Ok, he's saving the pretty blond twink. Standard antihero trope. Then you start getting to know Eastyn...
I love banter, and twisted humor. Eventually I'm sitting on the floor of my bathroom at 4:00 a.m. laughing at this stubborn kid's antics as he power bottoms Sin's stoic, but hopelessly besotted self into new found levels of rediculousness. I'm thinking, man, this is my second favorite book this year, for sure. I can't put this down.
Then something else happens, and I'm just done. I need to buy a physical copy of this book. Yesterday. You may be able to see the end coming by this point in the book, but it's exactly the end you want. Everything about this just keeps getting better.
I'm still giving you my usual heads up, I know people have varying tastes. This book has trauma, abuse -- it mentions rape and pedophilia. None of this is between the main characters who are, frankly, perfect together. This is a dystopian tale. It's dark and gritty. Actually -- if you've read and enjoyed Night Angel by Bret Weeks, you'll probably like this. A little, very mild, bdsm.
And there is going to be a future story about -- nope, not telling -- spoiler. It's in the author's notes. I guess you'll have to read and find out. -- and his unnamed Asian beau. Yes, please! I can't wait to read the next book in this set.
Heat: 3/5
Rating: 5/5
Arc courtesy of LesCourt
All reviews are voluntary, and my honest opinion.
This book is f**king amazing.
If I could get you guys to read one book I've reviewed so far this year, it would be this one.
It started out normal -- Sin is a badass! Yay, I enjoy badasses. Ok, he's saving the pretty blond twink. Standard antihero trope. Then you start getting to know Eastyn...
I love banter, and twisted humor. Eventually I'm sitting on the floor of my bathroom at 4:00 a.m. laughing at this stubborn kid's antics as he power bottoms Sin's stoic, but hopelessly besotted self into new found levels of rediculousness. I'm thinking, man, this is my second favorite book this year, for sure. I can't put this down.
Then something else happens, and I'm just done. I need to buy a physical copy of this book. Yesterday. You may be able to see the end coming by this point in the book, but it's exactly the end you want. Everything about this just keeps getting better.
I'm still giving you my usual heads up, I know people have varying tastes. This book has trauma, abuse -- it mentions rape and pedophilia. None of this is between the main characters who are, frankly, perfect together. This is a dystopian tale. It's dark and gritty. Actually -- if you've read and enjoyed Night Angel by Bret Weeks, you'll probably like this. A little, very mild, bdsm.
And there is going to be a future story about -- nope, not telling -- spoiler. It's in the author's notes. I guess you'll have to read and find out. -- and his unnamed Asian beau. Yes, please! I can't wait to read the next book in this set.
Heat: 3/5
Rating: 5/5
April 2, 2019
Why am I still surprised that when I pick up a book by Alice Winters I get lost in the amazing story that she has created! Her talent for creating a world the readers gets lost in is tremendous. Her world building is par none.
She combines darkness with light so beautifully in this story. Where there is ugliness and despair there is also hope and beauty. This dark, gritty love story is truly an amazing reading experience.
Humor is prevalent throughout the story. This book showcases snark at its best! The depth and dimension she gives to her characters is so multidimensional. There are so many layers to Sin and Eastyn that as a reader you are constantly discovering new things to love about them.
Be prepared to be totally captivated by The Sinner and the Liar. Make sure you leave yourself plenty of time because you will not put this book down until you read the very last page.
I am in awe of Alice Winters talent and look forward to whatever she gifts her readers with next.
She combines darkness with light so beautifully in this story. Where there is ugliness and despair there is also hope and beauty. This dark, gritty love story is truly an amazing reading experience.
Humor is prevalent throughout the story. This book showcases snark at its best! The depth and dimension she gives to her characters is so multidimensional. There are so many layers to Sin and Eastyn that as a reader you are constantly discovering new things to love about them.
Be prepared to be totally captivated by The Sinner and the Liar. Make sure you leave yourself plenty of time because you will not put this book down until you read the very last page.
I am in awe of Alice Winters talent and look forward to whatever she gifts her readers with next.
December 15, 2022
4⭐️ This was definitely dark for Alice Winters but I enjoyed it. It had a good mix of suspense, violence, existential despair, and humor.
The plot takes place in a dystopian future after WWIII has ravaged the country. Sin is a gun-for-hire who’s bad-tempered, mean, and grieving the loss of his partner when Eastyn, a clever, bubbly twink comes along and shakes shit up. I loved their extreme grumpy/sunshine relationship. I loved the humor, the little plot twists, and the spice.
It was just a little long for my taste. I could have done without 50 pages in the middle. But overall an interesting read.
The plot takes place in a dystopian future after WWIII has ravaged the country. Sin is a gun-for-hire who’s bad-tempered, mean, and grieving the loss of his partner when Eastyn, a clever, bubbly twink comes along and shakes shit up. I loved their extreme grumpy/sunshine relationship. I loved the humor, the little plot twists, and the spice.
It was just a little long for my taste. I could have done without 50 pages in the middle. But overall an interesting read.
September 16, 2019
4.5 stars.
Loved everything about this book; the plot, the characters, the way the story was written. Once I realized that Alice Winters was the one who wrote the last book I read, The Hitman's Guide to Making Friends and Finding Love, I knew that this was going to be a winner.
More to come!
Loved everything about this book; the plot, the characters, the way the story was written. Once I realized that Alice Winters was the one who wrote the last book I read, The Hitman's Guide to Making Friends and Finding Love, I knew that this was going to be a winner.
More to come!
April 2, 2019
Out of all of Alice’s books I think this one may be my favorite. The story was gritty. The main characters Eastyn and Sin had to fight and claw their way to a happy ending. Sin is a man who is just existing, he doesn’t care one bit if he lives or dies until a beautiful young man pretty much bullies his way into Sin’s life and eventually his heart. I think the thing I love most about this book was Eastyn. Yeah he had the humor thing going for him but he kept looking for others to rescue him but he eventually comes to the realization that he can save himself and I loved that. Very good book. Highly, highly recommend!!
April 10, 2019
Amazing and wonderful...interesting and sexy and oh so many amazing things happening..loved it so much!
February 28, 2021
This was really good! I loved the post apocalyptic, gang ridden cityscape the story takes place in, and how Sin and Eastyn live and survive in it. And in between all, their very own fight to survive. It was more serious than what I'm used to fron Alice (meaning, less humor), but it still worked really well.
April 24, 2023
This is a darker Alice Winters than we are used to. There is still banter but it certainly isn't as lighthearted as in other books.
I also am sure I'm going to be cursed out but I can only imagine how E must feel at the end. For E to still be sane after years of that is a feat in and of itself.
Also the fact that he was still Sawyers pet for quite some time during the book was done so nicely that you were aware of it but you didn't feel the sting of one of the MC's being cheated on, which I just cannot abide, even though it was beyond his control.
And somehow I got some Leland vibes from E. As if the author tested his character and personality in this book so the final product would be perfect in The Hitman's Guide. As if E were the twin that didn't get as "lucky" as to be found by Lucas and trained to be a killer but both dealt with their trauma similarly.
What was fascinating were those moments between the MC's that one actually could describe as romantic, that warmed your heart and made you feel just a bit more for them, like when Sin read E some nighttime stories or held him tight or quit smoking or all those other small things (*cough Three, Tripod,Triton *cough)
In the end even though it felt a bit long in parts and dark in others I still enjoyed it for the most part. What I'm not so sure about is, if this is going to be a reread book for me, as it certainly isn't a comfort read. Maybe if I feel a light dark streak I will get back to it.
I also am sure I'm going to be cursed out but I can only imagine how E must feel at the end. For E to still be sane after years of that is a feat in and of itself.
Also the fact that he was still Sawyers pet for quite some time during the book was done so nicely that you were aware of it but you didn't feel the sting of one of the MC's being cheated on, which I just cannot abide, even though it was beyond his control.
And somehow I got some Leland vibes from E. As if the author tested his character and personality in this book so the final product would be perfect in The Hitman's Guide. As if E were the twin that didn't get as "lucky" as to be found by Lucas and trained to be a killer but both dealt with their trauma similarly.
What was fascinating were those moments between the MC's that one actually could describe as romantic, that warmed your heart and made you feel just a bit more for them, like when Sin read E some nighttime stories or held him tight or quit smoking or all those other small things (*cough Three, Tripod,Triton *cough)
In the end even though it felt a bit long in parts and dark in others I still enjoyed it for the most part. What I'm not so sure about is, if this is going to be a reread book for me, as it certainly isn't a comfort read. Maybe if I feel a light dark streak I will get back to it.
April 9, 2019
This book is definately one of the greatest surprises of the year for me! I was really curious about it, since the author herself said It was a little bit different from her other titles, and what a perfect book she wrote! And dark stories? Count me in!
Alice created a perfect balance between the main characters, Sin and Eastyn: one is pure dark and frown, while the other is light and sassiness. From the very first lines – and through the whole book - we see why we have a sinner and a liar, and how they managed to survive and overcome so much hurt and loss in their lives. Little by little, we follow them as the walls around them starts to fall, and how they helped each other, sometimes without even knowing and being aware of it.
Without spoiling much, I can say for sure that the book kept my attention until the very last line, with all the ups and downs of it, and all that suspense! Sometimes I had to take a breath before the next line, so afraid of what was coming...
For me The Sinner and The Liar has It all: a perfect and well written story, two men with very Strong personalities finding their way throught caos – inside and outside their lives – and some dialogues that had me laughing really hard! The Alice humor we all know and love is very presente in this book...I mean, even amongst drama Eastyn was there to smooth things with his sharp words and perfect comebacks! And Sin “trying” to resist was definately amusing
This is so far my favourite book from the author, and I can’t wait for the next os the series. There’s some questions on the end and I need answers!
Great job Alice! This is a HUGE 5 stars for me.
Just read this. You will not regret. At all. Just go and enjoy the ride.
Alice created a perfect balance between the main characters, Sin and Eastyn: one is pure dark and frown, while the other is light and sassiness. From the very first lines – and through the whole book - we see why we have a sinner and a liar, and how they managed to survive and overcome so much hurt and loss in their lives. Little by little, we follow them as the walls around them starts to fall, and how they helped each other, sometimes without even knowing and being aware of it.
Without spoiling much, I can say for sure that the book kept my attention until the very last line, with all the ups and downs of it, and all that suspense! Sometimes I had to take a breath before the next line, so afraid of what was coming...
For me The Sinner and The Liar has It all: a perfect and well written story, two men with very Strong personalities finding their way throught caos – inside and outside their lives – and some dialogues that had me laughing really hard! The Alice humor we all know and love is very presente in this book...I mean, even amongst drama Eastyn was there to smooth things with his sharp words and perfect comebacks! And Sin “trying” to resist was definately amusing
This is so far my favourite book from the author, and I can’t wait for the next os the series. There’s some questions on the end and I need answers!
Great job Alice! This is a HUGE 5 stars for me.
Just read this. You will not regret. At all. Just go and enjoy the ride.
April 30, 2019
This is a dark, gritty story that imagines what the world would be like after WWIII has devastated and fractured the United States. What remains after the war feels more like Gotham city, only with more lawlessness, fear, and apathy.
When we meet Sin, he is a shell of a man after the loss of his one reason to live and he's fueled by equal parts nicotine, liquor, and rage. Eastyn is a desperate young man in an impossible situation, with no one to rescue him. While Sin has given up completely, Eastyn still has one last hope that he can get out of his hell on earth - and Sin is the only one who can help him.
The world building is fantastic and almost too intense at times. The suspense and twists are what I've come to expect and appreciate from Alice Winters' writing. There are many funny, tender moments that break up the severity, but this is definitely in a darker place than some of her other books. I can't wait for the other books in this series.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.*
When we meet Sin, he is a shell of a man after the loss of his one reason to live and he's fueled by equal parts nicotine, liquor, and rage. Eastyn is a desperate young man in an impossible situation, with no one to rescue him. While Sin has given up completely, Eastyn still has one last hope that he can get out of his hell on earth - and Sin is the only one who can help him.
The world building is fantastic and almost too intense at times. The suspense and twists are what I've come to expect and appreciate from Alice Winters' writing. There are many funny, tender moments that break up the severity, but this is definitely in a darker place than some of her other books. I can't wait for the other books in this series.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.*
February 3, 2020
This book was absolutely fantastic. Not only is there action and crime lords and a dark, gritty setting but it was funny as hell. The banter between Sin and Eastyn is absolutely the best. It wasn't over the top like some authors but seemed to fit the story. Sin's grumpiness and Eastyn's lightness were the perfect match. I just loved everything about this.
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May 6, 2020There's no way I can rate this book since I never would have read it if the triggers were listed ANYWHERE. So let's start there:
TRIGGER WARNINGS: Attempted rape scene; MC is in situation I don't read books like this on purpose, but this part was kept secret from us for a good chunk of the book, and by the time it was revealed I knew I needed the happy ending to balance that shit out.
I don't like the dark stuff, but I do like dystopians, and I thought that's what I was getting here. And it is a dystopian, but we don't get much world-building on that aspect. It kept reminding me of Sin City (not that I remember very much of that movie) with the bleak tone of the first MC's inner dialogue, or maybe a Gotham City where the heroes and villains are all just normal, shitty humans. And the thing is, since the most fucked up stuff isn't explicit, this probably wouldn't even count as "dark" for anyone actually looking for that.
I spent the majority of the book extremely uncomfortable for one reason or another, but I also couldn't put the damn thing down after a certain point. The only times my attention wandered were a few statements that felt inconsistent, if not impossible to be true from what we'd learned about the character's past, after certain truths were revealed.
I also head-over-heels ADORED the dynamic that eventually developed between the MCs, to the point that I may want to bump this author's recent action comedies up on my priority list -- IF I can get over how blindsided I feel from all this dark shit that just got shoved in my brain. I legit feel a little traumatized right now
TRIGGER WARNINGS: Attempted rape scene; MC is in situation I don't read books like this on purpose, but this part was kept secret from us for a good chunk of the book, and by the time it was revealed I knew I needed the happy ending to balance that shit out.
I don't like the dark stuff, but I do like dystopians, and I thought that's what I was getting here. And it is a dystopian, but we don't get much world-building on that aspect. It kept reminding me of Sin City (not that I remember very much of that movie) with the bleak tone of the first MC's inner dialogue, or maybe a Gotham City where the heroes and villains are all just normal, shitty humans. And the thing is, since the most fucked up stuff isn't explicit, this probably wouldn't even count as "dark" for anyone actually looking for that.
I spent the majority of the book extremely uncomfortable for one reason or another, but I also couldn't put the damn thing down after a certain point. The only times my attention wandered were a few statements that felt inconsistent, if not impossible to be true from what we'd learned about the character's past, after certain truths were revealed.
I also head-over-heels ADORED the dynamic that eventually developed between the MCs, to the point that I may want to bump this author's recent action comedies up on my priority list -- IF I can get over how blindsided I feel from all this dark shit that just got shoved in my brain. I legit feel a little traumatized right now
April 14, 2019
♥.•🌟¨)☆♡¸.•🌟´¨)☆♡¸.•♥🌟´¨)☆♡♥
♡🌟(¸.•♥´🌟Another war was brewing for those seeking asylum
Hands down one of the best books I have read for the year. Intriguing, entertaining, with twisty plots and the kind of romance that gives you whiplash!!! I loved, LOVED, both the main characters and I applaud the author's diligence in making them as real as possible.
Sin was BadA$$, but oh, underneath that surface laid a heart of gold. I totally enjoyed the way young Eastyn was the only one to get him and ruled him without much effort. They were made for each other. The crime drama was on par with the romance and the way it was handled made this very long book an exciting passage.
I am there for book two no matter the length. I love books that can make me want more when there shouldn't be. Great job Alice Winters. You came and you Conquered. Deserving of all my stars.
♡🌟(¸.•♥´🌟Another war was brewing for those seeking asylum
Hands down one of the best books I have read for the year. Intriguing, entertaining, with twisty plots and the kind of romance that gives you whiplash!!! I loved, LOVED, both the main characters and I applaud the author's diligence in making them as real as possible.
Sin was BadA$$, but oh, underneath that surface laid a heart of gold. I totally enjoyed the way young Eastyn was the only one to get him and ruled him without much effort. They were made for each other. The crime drama was on par with the romance and the way it was handled made this very long book an exciting passage.
I am there for book two no matter the length. I love books that can make me want more when there shouldn't be. Great job Alice Winters. You came and you Conquered. Deserving of all my stars.
April 12, 2019
There aren't enough stars for this book! Raw,gritty,intense,ugly...and yet so so BEAUTIFUL!
For a few hours I've lived in an isolated and corrupted city,where human life is worthless and the use of a body is worth only 5 bucks. Everyone lives in fear of the Chromes and their leader Sawyer and the police are powerless to stop them.
The main characters start off as messed up, no other way to describe them.
At the beginning of the book Sin doesn't care if he lives or dies. He's rough, powerful and fearless. Eastyn's entrance into his life shocking and mind boggling to him . He doesn't understand why the kid makes him act so much out of character or why he even allows him to disturb his reanse and repeat style of living.
Eastyn is fierce,selfish and manipulative. He wants out from Sawyer's influence and needs Sin to help him,not caring about what he has to do in order to achieve his goal. He's never had any control over his life and now,having choices makes him realize that he actually doesn't know who he really is deep inside.
Feelings were never in the cards,both Sin and Eastyn having clear, selfish uses for the other. Between trying to find a way to free Eastyn and fighting danger together, the need for each other and their connection gets stronger, although neither of them wants to acknowledge it. But then they realize they're no longer fearless when fearing for somebody else's life, they're no longer selfish when they take someone else's needs and feelings in consideration before their own. They have to stop being lairs and admit that they've already given all of themselves to the other one.
You need to read this book,because you'll go through so many emotions:rage,sadness,happiness. You'll cry for the characters pasts, laugh at their banter and burn when they make love.
I highly recommend it.
For a few hours I've lived in an isolated and corrupted city,where human life is worthless and the use of a body is worth only 5 bucks. Everyone lives in fear of the Chromes and their leader Sawyer and the police are powerless to stop them.
The main characters start off as messed up, no other way to describe them.
At the beginning of the book Sin doesn't care if he lives or dies. He's rough, powerful and fearless. Eastyn's entrance into his life shocking and mind boggling to him . He doesn't understand why the kid makes him act so much out of character or why he even allows him to disturb his reanse and repeat style of living.
Eastyn is fierce,selfish and manipulative. He wants out from Sawyer's influence and needs Sin to help him,not caring about what he has to do in order to achieve his goal. He's never had any control over his life and now,having choices makes him realize that he actually doesn't know who he really is deep inside.
Feelings were never in the cards,both Sin and Eastyn having clear, selfish uses for the other. Between trying to find a way to free Eastyn and fighting danger together, the need for each other and their connection gets stronger, although neither of them wants to acknowledge it. But then they realize they're no longer fearless when fearing for somebody else's life, they're no longer selfish when they take someone else's needs and feelings in consideration before their own. They have to stop being lairs and admit that they've already given all of themselves to the other one.
You need to read this book,because you'll go through so many emotions:rage,sadness,happiness. You'll cry for the characters pasts, laugh at their banter and burn when they make love.
I highly recommend it.
April 21, 2019
4.5 stars. I really liked this book and am beginning to make Ms. Winters a go to author.
The book is set in some other time when individual cities are walled off from each other and some of the cities have been taken over by crime gangs where the police are useless. Nothing else about this book is futuristic, no robots, airborne vehicles or psychic healing, just bad guys and good guys (and the good guys act like bad guys on occasion).
Our MC's are a former cop, Sin, now freelancing, who's mostly a good guy, and a young man he meets that turns out to be "owned" by the badest of the bad guys. The kid, Eastyn, has had a terrible life and thinks he can con Sin into killing the bad guy and thus getting the kid out of his situation. The kid has become a liar extraordinaire but has met his match in Sin.
A wonderful, slow building, emotional romance ensues. Lots of murder and mayhem but two solid, well defined main characters.
The book is set in some other time when individual cities are walled off from each other and some of the cities have been taken over by crime gangs where the police are useless. Nothing else about this book is futuristic, no robots, airborne vehicles or psychic healing, just bad guys and good guys (and the good guys act like bad guys on occasion).
Our MC's are a former cop, Sin, now freelancing, who's mostly a good guy, and a young man he meets that turns out to be "owned" by the badest of the bad guys. The kid, Eastyn, has had a terrible life and thinks he can con Sin into killing the bad guy and thus getting the kid out of his situation. The kid has become a liar extraordinaire but has met his match in Sin.
A wonderful, slow building, emotional romance ensues. Lots of murder and mayhem but two solid, well defined main characters.
April 26, 2023
I don’t think this author can write a story I don’t love. I thought I wouldn’t like this book after the first few pages. I didn’t like the power dynamic and I’m not overly fond of dystopian novels but I gave it a chance and am really glad I did. Because of the horrible future the characters live in, it is much more serious than her other books and a lot less bantering. There are a lot of scary points and danger and peril but really the biggest thrill was the fear that they were going to get caught.
Sin is willing to be submissive way too early. But it’s wonderful that he does at all. I love that the little guy can run circles around him in the bedroom sometimes, that Sin occasionally allows himself to be dominated up to a point. I think there’s a little too much sex but that last scene had me waving a fan to cool myself off. ;)
Sin is willing to be submissive way too early. But it’s wonderful that he does at all. I love that the little guy can run circles around him in the bedroom sometimes, that Sin occasionally allows himself to be dominated up to a point. I think there’s a little too much sex but that last scene had me waving a fan to cool myself off. ;)
May 7, 2019
4.5 / 5 Stars
I love this author's books and I love this bad-boy-finds-good-boy trope.
The characters are well done, quick and show us a lot of their emotions throughout the story. They make you want they find their happy ending, fighting against those who deserve the worst. On the other hand, it is an engaging story with the right amount of action, sexiness, lovely moments and tough situations.
The plot is not super dark nor fluffy, it has sass, some humor, violence and murder. Blending all the elements without overshadowing each other is something the author works wonderfully.
I love this author's books and I love this bad-boy-finds-good-boy trope.
The characters are well done, quick and show us a lot of their emotions throughout the story. They make you want they find their happy ending, fighting against those who deserve the worst. On the other hand, it is an engaging story with the right amount of action, sexiness, lovely moments and tough situations.
The plot is not super dark nor fluffy, it has sass, some humor, violence and murder. Blending all the elements without overshadowing each other is something the author works wonderfully.
November 8, 2020
I really don't know what I was thinking I was getting into . . . But this book was fun and sexy. The banter between Sin and Eastyn was hysterical and the dark and grittiness of the story spoke to me as well. The twists and turns had me glued to the page and that last line had me itching for the next book!!!
May 16, 2022
This story is a lot darker, suspenseful, and angstier than I am used to for this author. It's a dystopian tale set after the end of the third world war. I like both Eastyn and Sin; they were just what the other needed to be able to move forward in their lives. I cried several times while reading this story. I was happy for them by the ending.
January 28, 2020
I couldn't put it down 😍
Alice Winters is one of my favourite authors! 🤩
Alice Winters is one of my favourite authors! 🤩
dnf
August 19, 2020I started reading this in January and put it down hoping to pick out up at some point.
Now it's August. I think it's safe to say I'm not going to finish it. I can't remember why I put it down. I probably wasn't feeling it then or now. *shrugs*
Now it's August. I think it's safe to say I'm not going to finish it. I can't remember why I put it down. I probably wasn't feeling it then or now. *shrugs*
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