What do you think?
Rate this book
Astrid Scott #1
Pretty Lies
New town. New school. Same lies.
This is my senior year, and not only have my parents moved me to a new place where I know nothing and no one, they are determined to make me fall in line with the life they want me to have.
Not the life that I want. But what fits perfectly into their world.
I’m looking for any possible way to escape this prison and leave them behind. Which has been harder than I thought.
An opportunity to escape appears. And I’m going to take it. I’m going to use four so-called perfect guys in this new town to make it happen. The ones that have it all, or so everyone thinks.
And they’re going to be my ticket out.
This is my senior year, and not only have my parents moved me to a new place where I know nothing and no one, they are determined to make me fall in line with the life they want me to have.
Not the life that I want. But what fits perfectly into their world.
I’m looking for any possible way to escape this prison and leave them behind. Which has been harder than I thought.
An opportunity to escape appears. And I’m going to take it. I’m going to use four so-called perfect guys in this new town to make it happen. The ones that have it all, or so everyone thinks.
And they’re going to be my ticket out.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 11, 2019
453 people are currently reading
1135 people want to read
About the author
Blake Blessing
39 books481 followersBlake Blessing is just a working mom that loves art in all forms, and all genres of romance. Although she enjoys writing romance of the steamier variety.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
June 25, 2019
Rating: 3.5 stars
One girl, four boys and many broken homes. One can assume it is be the classic recipe for a contemporary RH but Pretty Lies never steps into the romance and only focus on being a coming of age story.
Exit the insta love, exit the golden vaginas, exit the ever after set from the first chapter. The characters of Pretty Lies are not in love just yet but make their way into a burgeoning friendship. The polyamory hint isn’t dropped and the love interests are not set in stone; some of them might still stay in the friend zone.
It is refreshing to not read once again about Romeo and Juliet wannabes professing their eternal love for no reason at all from the very first page. It gives a little bit of The Veil Diaries vibe and I can totally dig that.
Unfortunately, I feel that I did not have the time to connect with the characters, not even Astrid. While i liked her and her stalking gift, I had a hard time grasping her reality and home life as it was mostly seen through her thoughts and not through actions. The guys, on the other hand, were not developed nearly enough to begin to like them.
The really bright point of this book was Astrid’s photography and her initial idea. She says she sees the lies and I hope it will be more explored in the following books.
One girl, four boys and many broken homes. One can assume it is be the classic recipe for a contemporary RH but Pretty Lies never steps into the romance and only focus on being a coming of age story.
Exit the insta love, exit the golden vaginas, exit the ever after set from the first chapter. The characters of Pretty Lies are not in love just yet but make their way into a burgeoning friendship. The polyamory hint isn’t dropped and the love interests are not set in stone; some of them might still stay in the friend zone.
It is refreshing to not read once again about Romeo and Juliet wannabes professing their eternal love for no reason at all from the very first page. It gives a little bit of The Veil Diaries vibe and I can totally dig that.
Unfortunately, I feel that I did not have the time to connect with the characters, not even Astrid. While i liked her and her stalking gift, I had a hard time grasping her reality and home life as it was mostly seen through her thoughts and not through actions. The guys, on the other hand, were not developed nearly enough to begin to like them.
The really bright point of this book was Astrid’s photography and her initial idea. She says she sees the lies and I hope it will be more explored in the following books.
May 23, 2019
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I really enjoyed this RH novel! I was not ready for it to end at all.
Astrid has moved to a small city outside Denver,Co. Her father is a pastor and mom is a bit crazy and controlling. She isn't used to making friends and has a tough time assimilating to her new school. She finds an opportunity to get a full ride scholarship through her photography. Along with working on that she has to fight off the catty girls & the dumb boys who do their bidding. Astrid ended up insulting the wrong boy and he turned the "in-crowd" against her.
I found the four guys to be easily distinguishable which sometimes with RH doesn't always happen. Each guy had their own personality & attitude that made it easy to keep track of them. They came from different backgrounds. different hobbies, and different ages. I really enjoyed that they were not all friends before the girl but she was what brings them together.
The main character Astrid was not very original through... the damaged home life, just trying to make it at a new school, etc. I just didn't find her as believing of a character as I wanted. I did enjoy the love of art & photography throughout the book.
The ending was a bit too rushed after allllll the build up. That was quite a let down. And there was a cliffhanger as well.
I really enjoyed this RH novel! I was not ready for it to end at all.
Astrid has moved to a small city outside Denver,Co. Her father is a pastor and mom is a bit crazy and controlling. She isn't used to making friends and has a tough time assimilating to her new school. She finds an opportunity to get a full ride scholarship through her photography. Along with working on that she has to fight off the catty girls & the dumb boys who do their bidding. Astrid ended up insulting the wrong boy and he turned the "in-crowd" against her.
I found the four guys to be easily distinguishable which sometimes with RH doesn't always happen. Each guy had their own personality & attitude that made it easy to keep track of them. They came from different backgrounds. different hobbies, and different ages. I really enjoyed that they were not all friends before the girl but she was what brings them together.
The main character Astrid was not very original through... the damaged home life, just trying to make it at a new school, etc. I just didn't find her as believing of a character as I wanted. I did enjoy the love of art & photography throughout the book.
The ending was a bit too rushed after allllll the build up. That was quite a let down. And there was a cliffhanger as well.
August 11, 2019
Astrid Scott has just moved to a new town and she is about to discover that it is another town where the ugly truths are hidden by lies wrapped up in pretty bows. Following the current trope of bullymances, comes Blake Blessing's new series Astrid Scott. Astrid's parents have moved to town to become the new pastor and wife of the local church. When she starts school, she is approached by a hockey player whom she rejects. This is a bad move on her as he decides to turn the popular crowd against her and make her a target with the Queen Bees of the high school. At least though, it seems that Astrid has captured the attention of four very different guys from all different walks of life and in their very own ways, they want to protect her and would do absolutely anything for her. We have Rhys - the wealthy hockey player, Jonah - the student president and valedictorian, Thatcher - the Photography Uni student and Beck - the local mechanic. Each of them has their own dark secrets, but Astrid makes them want to be a better person. With the help of the four boys, can Astrid last the school year and gain a boost of confidence to help her with her own family situation? One of the things that I really loved about Pretty Lies by Blake Blessing, was that the author went back to the actual foundations of a reverse harem and made Astrid's relationship with the boys primarily a friendship with hints of something more. This was really nice to read for a change instead of the main female jumping the bones of her harem of guys. I am now looking forward to reading Book #2 Ugly Truths.
February 16, 2021
The writing was a bit wordy in places. Sometimes the verbiage between the characters felt awkward and forced.
The story did not flow. It felt choppy.
Readers may have loved that she was into photography, but I found her stalking a bit creepy. Especially when she would snoop through their windows and take pictures without them knowing. Creepy.
Astrid’s attitude seemed out of place sometimes. I don't think I would be her friend. She appeared all over the place with her thoughts.
The "harem" was fine was well. I liked that it was not insta-love, but a slow-burn.
I did not get it.
Reading is subjective. This one was not for me.
I wanted to know the secret(s) so I read on.
The story did not flow. It felt choppy.
Readers may have loved that she was into photography, but I found her stalking a bit creepy. Especially when she would snoop through their windows and take pictures without them knowing. Creepy.
Astrid’s attitude seemed out of place sometimes. I don't think I would be her friend. She appeared all over the place with her thoughts.
The "harem" was fine was well. I liked that it was not insta-love, but a slow-burn.
I did not get it.
Reading is subjective. This one was not for me.
I wanted to know the secret(s) so I read on.
August 31, 2019
I don't know maybe it's just me.. or maybe I need to switch it up with the books I'm reading.. OR MAYBE IT'S WORK AND I NEED A BREAK.
Also, why does the r button on my laptop not work... I stab it multiple times just to get the damn letter. Ugh, I hate this shittop and need my new laptop ASAP! If words are missing letters, I do not apologize - I give up stabbing these damn keys.
Anyways, back to this book. Pretty Lies was okay and pretty interesting. In it, you will meet Astrid. Now this girl is living one ough ass life. Her mother is so god damn abusive that it hurts. Her dad basically neve acknowledges these two until someone else is pesent.
Now Astrid is kind of an outsider. She doesn't like being the center of attention and just wants to graduate and go to a college of he choosing. It doesn't help that people just want to bully he because they have nothing better to do with thei lives. Then there's the fact that her paents have some random ass douche image they want to uphold and basically put her down evey second of the day. No idea how I would feel if my parents were choosing my life before my eyes.. but just know - it wouldn't happen.
Along the way, she ends up meeting some guys. I guess you could call them her haram but I wasn't seeing it. Most likely friends than anything because it was just so awkward between them all. They might have some feelings for her but not feeling the omantic kind.
Anyhoo, secrets come out in this book and the ending was pretty interesting. Nothing that I expected which is probably why I liked it. Pretty intrigued to dive into the next book of this series just to see what this group of kids ae doing in thei lives. I want to know if their deals lasted o not.
PS. I hate the RRRRRR button on my laptop.
^^pressed that button like 10 times lol
Also, why does the r button on my laptop not work... I stab it multiple times just to get the damn letter. Ugh, I hate this shittop and need my new laptop ASAP! If words are missing letters, I do not apologize - I give up stabbing these damn keys.
Anyways, back to this book. Pretty Lies was okay and pretty interesting. In it, you will meet Astrid. Now this girl is living one ough ass life. Her mother is so god damn abusive that it hurts. Her dad basically neve acknowledges these two until someone else is pesent.
Now Astrid is kind of an outsider. She doesn't like being the center of attention and just wants to graduate and go to a college of he choosing. It doesn't help that people just want to bully he because they have nothing better to do with thei lives. Then there's the fact that her paents have some random ass douche image they want to uphold and basically put her down evey second of the day. No idea how I would feel if my parents were choosing my life before my eyes.. but just know - it wouldn't happen.
Along the way, she ends up meeting some guys. I guess you could call them her haram but I wasn't seeing it. Most likely friends than anything because it was just so awkward between them all. They might have some feelings for her but not feeling the omantic kind.
Anyhoo, secrets come out in this book and the ending was pretty interesting. Nothing that I expected which is probably why I liked it. Pretty intrigued to dive into the next book of this series just to see what this group of kids ae doing in thei lives. I want to know if their deals lasted o not.
PS. I hate the RRRRRR button on my laptop.
^^pressed that button like 10 times lol
August 27, 2019
What a fantastic FREE read with KU!
Astrid's family has moved so she has to change schools her senior year, which in itself is kind of devastating for a young person to do in his/her senior year. On top of that, her dad is a pastor and her parents are specific about what they want her to do with her life. Naturally, we parents always want the best for our children and guide them to positive things, but we are each our own person and individuals with different opinions in life. Sadly, things go quite awry at her school due to someone's influence.
I'm not really familiar with the "reverse harem" genre, so I looked it up on GR and it says: “Reverse harem” is, literally, the opposite of “harem”, with a group of males centering round a singular female, usually with three or more males. Quite often found under the romance genre.
I'm not quite sure how I feel about the genre yet, but I know I liked this book and it's my first (I think) reverse harem novel.
Astrid's family has moved so she has to change schools her senior year, which in itself is kind of devastating for a young person to do in his/her senior year. On top of that, her dad is a pastor and her parents are specific about what they want her to do with her life. Naturally, we parents always want the best for our children and guide them to positive things, but we are each our own person and individuals with different opinions in life. Sadly, things go quite awry at her school due to someone's influence.
I'm not really familiar with the "reverse harem" genre, so I looked it up on GR and it says: “Reverse harem” is, literally, the opposite of “harem”, with a group of males centering round a singular female, usually with three or more males. Quite often found under the romance genre.
I'm not quite sure how I feel about the genre yet, but I know I liked this book and it's my first (I think) reverse harem novel.
June 12, 2022
Pretty Lies was a good start of getting to know the characters we’ll (hopefully) be seeing in the next books. Blake Blessing’s writing sucked me in and I couldn’t put it down. If I didn’t have to work I would’ve actually finished this in one sitting.
Astrid just moved to a new town with her parents. Her life at home isn’t a great one and she just wants to get through senior year and find her way. I definitely felt for Astrid and her home life. It definitely couldn’t have been easy. Her love of taking pictures to freeze moments of emotion no one notices was really interesting. I loved how excited she got with exploring photography and a way for her to get what she wants. I do feel like we still have a lot to learn about this character.
From what I understand this series is supposed to be a reverse harem and I loved slowly seeing the interests being introduced to the story without major instalove characteristics. It was nice seeing them just get to know each other and start to possibly explore their feelings. This definitely felt more natural to me and I hope to get more chapters from their POV in the next books. They’ve definitely caught my attention and I love how everything came together when she showed her photography portfolio.
Besides this aspect of the story there is some high school drama that does go a bit far and some other twists I didn’t quite see coming. Blake Blessing has definitely caught my attention and I really want to know what will happen next.
Astrid just moved to a new town with her parents. Her life at home isn’t a great one and she just wants to get through senior year and find her way. I definitely felt for Astrid and her home life. It definitely couldn’t have been easy. Her love of taking pictures to freeze moments of emotion no one notices was really interesting. I loved how excited she got with exploring photography and a way for her to get what she wants. I do feel like we still have a lot to learn about this character.
From what I understand this series is supposed to be a reverse harem and I loved slowly seeing the interests being introduced to the story without major instalove characteristics. It was nice seeing them just get to know each other and start to possibly explore their feelings. This definitely felt more natural to me and I hope to get more chapters from their POV in the next books. They’ve definitely caught my attention and I love how everything came together when she showed her photography portfolio.
Besides this aspect of the story there is some high school drama that does go a bit far and some other twists I didn’t quite see coming. Blake Blessing has definitely caught my attention and I really want to know what will happen next.
May 11, 2019
Holy plot twists
Blake Blessing may be new to the indie scene, but all of her books are freaking amazing. Pretty Lies is a YA contemp romance that is just full of angst, swoon-worthy men, and one AWESOME heroine by the name of Astrid. While we discover that the world and everyone around Astrid all have secrets to hide and we uncover the truth of all these pretty lies. It’s just so good! I couldn’t put it down. Beck, Rhys, Thatcher, and Jonah are so different and yet all so delicious with their intertwining lives and Astrid. I’m ready to see what book two brings...
Blake Blessing may be new to the indie scene, but all of her books are freaking amazing. Pretty Lies is a YA contemp romance that is just full of angst, swoon-worthy men, and one AWESOME heroine by the name of Astrid. While we discover that the world and everyone around Astrid all have secrets to hide and we uncover the truth of all these pretty lies. It’s just so good! I couldn’t put it down. Beck, Rhys, Thatcher, and Jonah are so different and yet all so delicious with their intertwining lives and Astrid. I’m ready to see what book two brings...
January 23, 2024
I enjoyed this book.
June 10, 2022
This story caught my attention in several ways. First, Astrid has a unique hobby that makes her stand out as a character. She isn’t the only character who loves photography, but her habit of taking secret candid photos that catch people in their lies fascinated me from the beginning! The other thing that caught my interest was the way Astrid meets the guys who will (I assume) eventually be in her harem. She meets them all individually, in various ways - a couple of rom-com style meet-cutes, and a couple in different types of awkward or uncomfortable ways.
The guys themselves all have well-rounded but distinct personalities, which I love. They all have hidden depths and secret lives. And they are really only getting to know each other because of their interest in and concern for Astrid.
The plot was fun, with intrigue, humor, and tension of the spicy variety!
The guys themselves all have well-rounded but distinct personalities, which I love. They all have hidden depths and secret lives. And they are really only getting to know each other because of their interest in and concern for Astrid.
The plot was fun, with intrigue, humor, and tension of the spicy variety!
September 26, 2024
I feel like this is the first book I'm reviewing where it's reminded me of a Wattpad book, but not necessarily in a bad way? There are still some sterotypical tropes within Pretty Lies however, for the most part, they weren't too extreme and didn't ruin my enjoyment of the story. This is quite a slow burn, to the point where they still aren't properly together at the end of the story, so do be warned about that if you want to read this.
Read
May 23, 2019Not for me.
dnf-2025
April 7, 2025dnf couldn’t get into this one
October 20, 2020
Hear me out...
First and foremost on my mind, if anyone picking up this book has never heard of Jesus and the foundation of the Christian faith, please please know the “christians” in this book display none of the characteristics. We are called to just BE His children, to have a relationship with our heavenly Father and to love others. Astrid’s parents are abusive—physically/emotionally/mentally/spiritually and for the father—passively, by NOT intervening.
No wonder their daughter is all kinds of angry! But even so, I couldn’t buy her inner dialogue which begins on the very first page. The language she so frequently uses and thinks, felt forced, ugly, immature. I can understand her standoffishness to Trey and how she stood up to him. But how hard would it have been for her to make some form of effort to make even just ONE female friend in her new school? There’s an old girlfriend mentioned from another state, but this story goes overboard with all males becoming confidante, protector, friend (and she’s a lousy excuse of a friend to Ryan in return), hero etc....oh. Right reverse harem and all. Without the sex. It’s actually cleaner than expected, which I really liked. So I’m not sure if the author is going to explore the relationships more intimately in the next book....
The point of view is mostly from Astrid’s but over halfway through the book, we suddenly get an inside scoop to each of the main guys...this blunted the flow of the story for me.
The big “surprise” near the end? No surprise at all. The author gave away too much along the way, connecting those two individuals. And just to clarify with the above, that had NO bearing on me saying her Father wasn’t Christian.
I want to see how these pretty lies play out, and mostly I’m
Hoping for a happy ending for everyone who’s making sacrifices for both Astrid and other people in their lives
First and foremost on my mind, if anyone picking up this book has never heard of Jesus and the foundation of the Christian faith, please please know the “christians” in this book display none of the characteristics. We are called to just BE His children, to have a relationship with our heavenly Father and to love others. Astrid’s parents are abusive—physically/emotionally/mentally/spiritually and for the father—passively, by NOT intervening.
No wonder their daughter is all kinds of angry! But even so, I couldn’t buy her inner dialogue which begins on the very first page. The language she so frequently uses and thinks, felt forced, ugly, immature. I can understand her standoffishness to Trey and how she stood up to him. But how hard would it have been for her to make some form of effort to make even just ONE female friend in her new school? There’s an old girlfriend mentioned from another state, but this story goes overboard with all males becoming confidante, protector, friend (and she’s a lousy excuse of a friend to Ryan in return), hero etc....oh. Right reverse harem and all. Without the sex. It’s actually cleaner than expected, which I really liked. So I’m not sure if the author is going to explore the relationships more intimately in the next book....
The point of view is mostly from Astrid’s but over halfway through the book, we suddenly get an inside scoop to each of the main guys...this blunted the flow of the story for me.
The big “surprise” near the end? No surprise at all. The author gave away too much along the way, connecting those two individuals. And just to clarify with the above, that had NO bearing on me saying her Father wasn’t Christian.
I want to see how these pretty lies play out, and mostly I’m
Hoping for a happy ending for everyone who’s making sacrifices for both Astrid and other people in their lives
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2019
Pretty Lies but Beautiful Souls
What a refreshing and excellent start to a new series. Though it's set in High School and not much romance happens in this installment, the bones are there, and so are the sparks. Astrid makes true connections with some truly remarkable yet flawed individuals in this book. It also treats the teenagers less as tweens and more as the actual adults they are. The language is spot on. I enjoy reading YA/NA that isn't juvenile in it's language or treatment of the characters. This book also addresses bullying and the layers behind the facade that people live in their public lives versus who they are in private. Really enjoyed everything about this story and it flowed so well! I cannot wait to read more of Astrid's story and hopefully an elevation to the romance aspect too! Well done! 😊
What a refreshing and excellent start to a new series. Though it's set in High School and not much romance happens in this installment, the bones are there, and so are the sparks. Astrid makes true connections with some truly remarkable yet flawed individuals in this book. It also treats the teenagers less as tweens and more as the actual adults they are. The language is spot on. I enjoy reading YA/NA that isn't juvenile in it's language or treatment of the characters. This book also addresses bullying and the layers behind the facade that people live in their public lives versus who they are in private. Really enjoyed everything about this story and it flowed so well! I cannot wait to read more of Astrid's story and hopefully an elevation to the romance aspect too! Well done! 😊
September 4, 2020
I started this series and was completely sucked in! Astrid was such a different character. She’s headstrong but likes to blend in And people watch. By people watch, she takes the most interesting pictures of people without their notice. Yet she’s not creepy at all. I also completely adore all the guys (Jonah, Rhys, Beck, and Thatcher) too!
What’s the best part of the story is, they aren’t all friends. They know of each other but are only becoming friends because of Astrid. It is so great to see the friendships grow of this unlikely crew. Most books will already have the guys as close friends but this different take is refreshing and just absolutely enjoyable.
What’s the best part of the story is, they aren’t all friends. They know of each other but are only becoming friends because of Astrid. It is so great to see the friendships grow of this unlikely crew. Most books will already have the guys as close friends but this different take is refreshing and just absolutely enjoyable.
May 26, 2020
I enjoyed the story but I have to be honest and say that Astrid's "passion" on photographing people's lies is honestly creepy.
Think of a guy doing what Astrid has been doing: Taking pictures of a couple having sex, stalking people to take pictures of their "lies" and pictures of their most private intimate moments without them knowing.
I had to laugh when she labeled paparazzi as scummy but isn't she doing exactly what they do without profiting?
I still like the story though and read #2.
Think of a guy doing what Astrid has been doing: Taking pictures of a couple having sex, stalking people to take pictures of their "lies" and pictures of their most private intimate moments without them knowing.
I had to laugh when she labeled paparazzi as scummy but isn't she doing exactly what they do without profiting?
I still like the story though and read #2.
January 21, 2022
Astrid is shy and quiet, but also has a core of steel. I liked that the guys weren’t really friends before her. This is a slow-burn RH, and while you feel the attraction there isn’t really any steam. Astrid is always watching and taking photos from the shadows. She. Sees the pretty lies that those around her portray, I can’t wait to see the relationships continue to grow. Thankfully book 2 is already out!
September 10, 2020
I can't make up my mind whether I should give this books 3 stars or 4. It is a clear 3.5 for me. I had quite a few issues with the story, plotline and characters, but the first impression was good enough to lift opinion on this book on almost 4 stars.
Let's get straight to it.
So, Astrid. A quiet, closed off girl that keeps to herself. It is hard for her to open herself up to anyone, so, she relies on others to start conversations and keep them going for her. She has a penchant to spy after people and take photos of them, and captures the 'secret lies' with them. Might seem a bit stalkerish at first, I agree, but to be truthful it is not exactly it.
I had hard time connecting with Astrid, even after reading the three installations that are already out, I can't say I did. At first I lacked the things that make her – her. With time we get to know her passion for boho and some of the music she likes, etc. But begining of the story didn't put me in Astrid's shoes.
I was very excited to read of such a new to me character, I haven't met someone like her before. But to be truthful, it went a bit downhill with each book.
I didn't notice it at first, but the dialogues are a bit childish. The problems that knot up throughout the book are untangling by themselves or out of pure luck. I didn't like that.
Also, I didn't like the way the author brought the boys together. Astrid got in trouble with school 'twitch bitches' and they all spontaneously decided to 'protect her'. That's where the story lost the fifth star. Instantly. I hoped it would be something original with such an interesting 'stalkish' concept but it swirled around into a cliche zone. Unfortunately.
The plus, that's is still holding me and pressuring me to give this story 4 – is the slow burn. All the little touches and slow build up. No instant rush and lust. Perfect. Truthfully I kept to the end of the third book because of the slowburn. And Jonah. He is my type.
Just if you are wondering what types of guys this book holds for you: - the hot hockey jock, Viking and teddy bear with big heart;
- smart geek with troubled present he tries to hide full of darkness and hot tattoos behind his polo and khakies;
- rising rock star with dirty smirks but shy demeanor, who cares a lot;
And last but not the least,
- a talented artist, young Jared Leto lookalike with pierced dick.
I loved the boys, I truly did. I did find the dialogues and plotline lacking but I felt the authors love for her characters.
Not a bad RH story, if you are a fan of Ghost Bird series (Introductions) you might find this exciting only for the slow burn. Though I warn you it is not half as slow as GB but it does not have an instant 'let me jump your 🦆' there is a certain innocence that reminds me of C.L. Stone's work. Though nothing will compare to her books for me, this comes close with it's purity.
Her side friends are also something that troubled me. She didn't spend time with them. It's a bit of a clash for me. There should have either be no friends like Ryan and that girl from her last town (that's mentioned like two times) or the author should've spent more time on them. Because it feels like she is true friend only with those who pierce her daydreams with their good looks and pierced dicks. Ryan was an unnecessary cameo. Why is he here, I don't know. (Especially if you follow the whole three books there is less and less of him)
I wish the author would have spent more time on the plotline and polished the story more, but we have what we have.
(It's Ragnar, not Ragnor)
I feel like Hermione. 😂😂
Let's get straight to it.
So, Astrid. A quiet, closed off girl that keeps to herself. It is hard for her to open herself up to anyone, so, she relies on others to start conversations and keep them going for her. She has a penchant to spy after people and take photos of them, and captures the 'secret lies' with them. Might seem a bit stalkerish at first, I agree, but to be truthful it is not exactly it.
I had hard time connecting with Astrid, even after reading the three installations that are already out, I can't say I did. At first I lacked the things that make her – her. With time we get to know her passion for boho and some of the music she likes, etc. But begining of the story didn't put me in Astrid's shoes.
I was very excited to read of such a new to me character, I haven't met someone like her before. But to be truthful, it went a bit downhill with each book.
I didn't notice it at first, but the dialogues are a bit childish. The problems that knot up throughout the book are untangling by themselves or out of pure luck. I didn't like that.
Also, I didn't like the way the author brought the boys together. Astrid got in trouble with school 'twitch bitches' and they all spontaneously decided to 'protect her'. That's where the story lost the fifth star. Instantly. I hoped it would be something original with such an interesting 'stalkish' concept but it swirled around into a cliche zone. Unfortunately.
The plus, that's is still holding me and pressuring me to give this story 4 – is the slow burn. All the little touches and slow build up. No instant rush and lust. Perfect. Truthfully I kept to the end of the third book because of the slowburn. And Jonah. He is my type.
Just if you are wondering what types of guys this book holds for you: - the hot hockey jock, Viking and teddy bear with big heart;
- smart geek with troubled present he tries to hide full of darkness and hot tattoos behind his polo and khakies;
- rising rock star with dirty smirks but shy demeanor, who cares a lot;
And last but not the least,
- a talented artist, young Jared Leto lookalike with pierced dick.
I loved the boys, I truly did. I did find the dialogues and plotline lacking but I felt the authors love for her characters.
Not a bad RH story, if you are a fan of Ghost Bird series (Introductions) you might find this exciting only for the slow burn. Though I warn you it is not half as slow as GB but it does not have an instant 'let me jump your 🦆' there is a certain innocence that reminds me of C.L. Stone's work. Though nothing will compare to her books for me, this comes close with it's purity.
Her side friends are also something that troubled me. She didn't spend time with them. It's a bit of a clash for me. There should have either be no friends like Ryan and that girl from her last town (that's mentioned like two times) or the author should've spent more time on them. Because it feels like she is true friend only with those who pierce her daydreams with their good looks and pierced dicks. Ryan was an unnecessary cameo. Why is he here, I don't know. (Especially if you follow the whole three books there is less and less of him)
I wish the author would have spent more time on the plotline and polished the story more, but we have what we have.
(It's Ragnar, not Ragnor)
I feel like Hermione. 😂😂
November 26, 2021
A Girl, A Hockey Star, An A Grade Student, An Artist, and A Rockstar All With Pretty Lies All Come Together
Astrid Scott, Boho Hippie Chick.
Loves to take pictures.
Pictures of people, her fellow students, caught in random moments.
Some of these moments could be embarrassing.
Some could be happy.
Some might just be down right blackmail material.
But for Astrid, it’s all about the art, capturing the moment, that one moment of truth, vulnerability, emotion.
But.
Also for Astrid it sometimes,…just sometimes gets her into hot water.
Especially when she gets caught by nerdy, student council President Jonah, at a party in the middle of a heated argument while she clicks away, secret are revealed.
It’s not only the images she captures that tell truths, but the conversations she overhears.
Same with school hickey player Rhys, good looking, hot guy, all the girls ( and some guys) want to be with, or friends with.
However, when Astrid goes into stealthy mode when her curiosity gets the better of her one night, she finds out that Rhy’ s comfortable, privileged life as a son of a hockey player, might not be all it’s cracked up to be.
Similar stories come to light in relation to Beck.
The hottie mechanic who took pity on her and fixed her car who has a side gig as a local rock star.
And
Thatcher, the dark smouldering, artist. The college student, survivor of a broken home trying to look out for his younger sister.
All hot good looking guys, projecting an image of themselves, pretty to look at, but all gave their secrets they are desperate to hide.
Even Astrid herself, born into a deeply religious family, daughter of a pastor, with a controlling cruel mother, she has never had the freedom to live her own life.
Hates to be centre of attention, stays in the shadows, makes herself invisible as much as possible.
They are all pulled together for the same cause.
Because much as Astrid would like to think she is invisible, she has actually been noticed all along.
By the four guys with their secrets, by the disturbingly troubled Trey, and the ‘Twitch Bitches’ ( cheerleading mean girls).
Yep.
Astrids life is going to get a lot more difficult.
Loved this story of Astrid as she discovers her true talent and finally has the courage to confront her awkward relationship with her parents.
(And, believe me its about to get very awkward)
All with the help of a motley bunch of cute guys.
Some who knew each other, some knew of each other, but all become a new circle of friends.
All, care deeply for the cute, boho girl, who notices their demons, and they all feel,the need to protect her.
Some, if not all want a relationship with her but don’t want her getting involved in their issues.
As the story draws to its end, Astrid is finally able to fly, as all her hardworking and embarrassing moments are put behind her.
Question is… when you are surrounded by so much hot male testosterone, with so many secrets, what guy/s will win her heart?
What will happen when all those secrets come out?
Will this evolve into RH territory?
Or, will she fall hard for just one of ‘Astrid’s Heroes’
Hmmm….
Astrid Scott, Boho Hippie Chick.
Loves to take pictures.
Pictures of people, her fellow students, caught in random moments.
Some of these moments could be embarrassing.
Some could be happy.
Some might just be down right blackmail material.
But for Astrid, it’s all about the art, capturing the moment, that one moment of truth, vulnerability, emotion.
But.
Also for Astrid it sometimes,…just sometimes gets her into hot water.
Especially when she gets caught by nerdy, student council President Jonah, at a party in the middle of a heated argument while she clicks away, secret are revealed.
It’s not only the images she captures that tell truths, but the conversations she overhears.
Same with school hickey player Rhys, good looking, hot guy, all the girls ( and some guys) want to be with, or friends with.
However, when Astrid goes into stealthy mode when her curiosity gets the better of her one night, she finds out that Rhy’ s comfortable, privileged life as a son of a hockey player, might not be all it’s cracked up to be.
Similar stories come to light in relation to Beck.
The hottie mechanic who took pity on her and fixed her car who has a side gig as a local rock star.
And
Thatcher, the dark smouldering, artist. The college student, survivor of a broken home trying to look out for his younger sister.
All hot good looking guys, projecting an image of themselves, pretty to look at, but all gave their secrets they are desperate to hide.
Even Astrid herself, born into a deeply religious family, daughter of a pastor, with a controlling cruel mother, she has never had the freedom to live her own life.
Hates to be centre of attention, stays in the shadows, makes herself invisible as much as possible.
They are all pulled together for the same cause.
Because much as Astrid would like to think she is invisible, she has actually been noticed all along.
By the four guys with their secrets, by the disturbingly troubled Trey, and the ‘Twitch Bitches’ ( cheerleading mean girls).
Yep.
Astrids life is going to get a lot more difficult.
Loved this story of Astrid as she discovers her true talent and finally has the courage to confront her awkward relationship with her parents.
(And, believe me its about to get very awkward)
All with the help of a motley bunch of cute guys.
Some who knew each other, some knew of each other, but all become a new circle of friends.
All, care deeply for the cute, boho girl, who notices their demons, and they all feel,the need to protect her.
Some, if not all want a relationship with her but don’t want her getting involved in their issues.
As the story draws to its end, Astrid is finally able to fly, as all her hardworking and embarrassing moments are put behind her.
Question is… when you are surrounded by so much hot male testosterone, with so many secrets, what guy/s will win her heart?
What will happen when all those secrets come out?
Will this evolve into RH territory?
Or, will she fall hard for just one of ‘Astrid’s Heroes’
Hmmm….
December 1, 2021
Astrid is new to Silver Ranch, she's a senior in high school and likes to stay out of the spotlight. She has a bit of a hobby taking candid pictures that no one seems to notice. What she doesn't realize is how talented a photographer she is.
As the book opens, we get a glimpse of her relationship with her mother, since she's forgotten to pick up the chicken for dinner and has to run to the store. It's while she's out that she meets Beck who saves her by fixing the headlight she breaks by colliding with a light pole in the parking lot. Although he calls her jail-bait, he will be part of the group that befriends her.
Now we all know there are bullies in high school and staying off the radar with them can be difficult to near impossible. Astrid managed a whole week before she was accosted near her locker. Four jocks approach her with a welcome she doesn't need or want.
I love her description of these guys especially Ragnar, he'll be important later.
At the library we meet Jonah, Student Council President and serious geek. Then we meet her best friend so far, Ryan in art class and their teacher Mr. Music announces an art scholarship. This could change everything for Astrid.
Her parents throw a dinner party for neighbors and we learn a couple of interesting things about 'Ragnar' and Red-head from that confrontation. Ragnar's name is Rhys and redhead is his cousin Trey. Rhys' parents apparently are important to her father.
Photography is going to be Astrid's medium for the scholarship competition, and Mr. Music has a professor friend who is lending her equipment. That's where we get to meet Thatcher, who will also play a part in this series.
I love the way this tale begins, from the not so subtle aggression from Astrid's mother, to the friendships that form under rather interesting circumstances. To the final OMG did that just happen ending.
I am already reading the next book in this series.
As the book opens, we get a glimpse of her relationship with her mother, since she's forgotten to pick up the chicken for dinner and has to run to the store. It's while she's out that she meets Beck who saves her by fixing the headlight she breaks by colliding with a light pole in the parking lot. Although he calls her jail-bait, he will be part of the group that befriends her.
Now we all know there are bullies in high school and staying off the radar with them can be difficult to near impossible. Astrid managed a whole week before she was accosted near her locker. Four jocks approach her with a welcome she doesn't need or want.
I love her description of these guys especially Ragnar, he'll be important later.
At the library we meet Jonah, Student Council President and serious geek. Then we meet her best friend so far, Ryan in art class and their teacher Mr. Music announces an art scholarship. This could change everything for Astrid.
Her parents throw a dinner party for neighbors and we learn a couple of interesting things about 'Ragnar' and Red-head from that confrontation. Ragnar's name is Rhys and redhead is his cousin Trey. Rhys' parents apparently are important to her father.
Photography is going to be Astrid's medium for the scholarship competition, and Mr. Music has a professor friend who is lending her equipment. That's where we get to meet Thatcher, who will also play a part in this series.
I love the way this tale begins, from the not so subtle aggression from Astrid's mother, to the friendships that form under rather interesting circumstances. To the final OMG did that just happen ending.
I am already reading the next book in this series.
September 9, 2020
Pretty Lies is the first book in the Astrid Scott Series and I loved it! The story is unique and at the core is dripping with angst and heartache. Astrid has just moved to a new area and wants to blend into the background. She is a quirky, quiet girl who has a talent for photography and capturing people at both their best and their worst. She finds people's truths. One of my favorite lines from the book is "Damn me, and my peeping Tom tendencies." While it should be creepy I almost found it endearing. People never seem notice her but Astrid has the ability to really see people for who they are, not what they show the world. She has a healthy dose of curiosity and the worst fight or flight instincts lol.
Astrid finds a new friend, Ryan who is a great match for her and they had me laughing out loud quite a bit. During different instances she ends up meeting 4 guys who become curious about her. There is Beck, the mechanic/rockstar, who has nothing to lose. Thatcher, the artist, who is drawn to her and wants to know more. Jonah, the class president, wants to protect her but has everything to lose. And finally, Rhys, the golden boy hockey star who seems to sneak past her walls and becomes a true friend. They are all (mostly) strangers who become friends because of the girl who likes to peep and take pictures. It's an unlikely friendship and I can't wait to see where it goes. The book is slow burn and I actually liked that. I find it makes the story more believable and real.
Astrid's art project was one of my favorite things. Blake's words painted a beautiful picture and I was able to see and hear the project in my head as if it were right in front of me. The story is all about the pretty lies people tell to show the world what they want them to see. It was well written and I'm looking forward to reading book 2, Ugly Truths.
Astrid finds a new friend, Ryan who is a great match for her and they had me laughing out loud quite a bit. During different instances she ends up meeting 4 guys who become curious about her. There is Beck, the mechanic/rockstar, who has nothing to lose. Thatcher, the artist, who is drawn to her and wants to know more. Jonah, the class president, wants to protect her but has everything to lose. And finally, Rhys, the golden boy hockey star who seems to sneak past her walls and becomes a true friend. They are all (mostly) strangers who become friends because of the girl who likes to peep and take pictures. It's an unlikely friendship and I can't wait to see where it goes. The book is slow burn and I actually liked that. I find it makes the story more believable and real.
Astrid's art project was one of my favorite things. Blake's words painted a beautiful picture and I was able to see and hear the project in my head as if it were right in front of me. The story is all about the pretty lies people tell to show the world what they want them to see. It was well written and I'm looking forward to reading book 2, Ugly Truths.
August 13, 2019
Shes the pastors daughter, but behind closed doors away from prying eyes of the congregation there lies darkness in her family life.
Music and cars are his life one feeds the other, and keeps his spirits up in dark times.
Perfectly put together is he from a distance but up close the blemishes become visible. Keep them at arms length and all will be well.
Art and women away from his home, for his house is a safe haven for innocence and warmth.
The jock, the star, the all american high school dream is he, but who is that in his shadow...
Five lives that all collide, that destiny brings together.
What an ending to a fantastic slow burner, that once it hit its stride came alive like a rocket in the night sky!
The depth and insight into the characters is amazing! you can see their lives as if you took their picture.
Gravity pulls their strings as fate plays its hand, and I was captivated as the story played out.
The characters draw so many feelings from you. From sympathy, to empathy to understanding and lastly hope, whilst being so innocent and fresh.
A book that is so visual from the cover to the words to the images that dance around your mind. Amazingly brilliant!
I want more, I need more and now I'm off to get more!
Music and cars are his life one feeds the other, and keeps his spirits up in dark times.
Perfectly put together is he from a distance but up close the blemishes become visible. Keep them at arms length and all will be well.
Art and women away from his home, for his house is a safe haven for innocence and warmth.
The jock, the star, the all american high school dream is he, but who is that in his shadow...
Five lives that all collide, that destiny brings together.
What an ending to a fantastic slow burner, that once it hit its stride came alive like a rocket in the night sky!
The depth and insight into the characters is amazing! you can see their lives as if you took their picture.
Gravity pulls their strings as fate plays its hand, and I was captivated as the story played out.
The characters draw so many feelings from you. From sympathy, to empathy to understanding and lastly hope, whilst being so innocent and fresh.
A book that is so visual from the cover to the words to the images that dance around your mind. Amazingly brilliant!
I want more, I need more and now I'm off to get more!
March 9, 2020
Pretty Lies
Pretty Lies was an outstanding first book in a new series. I love plots like this, where the actual relationship development starts with the characters being friends first. This is not an instalove-story, the author really builds the atmosphere and characters first and this is exactly how I like my books. While this book flowed at a steady, slower pace, it never felt like it was boring. The emphasis was on Astrid's character and the friendship she slowly develops with each boy, as well as some sneak peeks into their backgrounds.
Astrid is a very layered character. She has to keep up pretenses being raised by very conservative parents. She comes across as timid and sheltered at times, but at other moments she shows her strength. She is determined to break free from the life her parents have planned out for her and shows she has a backbone when necessary. I'm really curious to what will happen after this book!
I loved the audio-narration too. The female narrator really nailed Astrid's personality in the intonation she used.
Pretty Lies was an outstanding first book in a new series. I love plots like this, where the actual relationship development starts with the characters being friends first. This is not an instalove-story, the author really builds the atmosphere and characters first and this is exactly how I like my books. While this book flowed at a steady, slower pace, it never felt like it was boring. The emphasis was on Astrid's character and the friendship she slowly develops with each boy, as well as some sneak peeks into their backgrounds.
Astrid is a very layered character. She has to keep up pretenses being raised by very conservative parents. She comes across as timid and sheltered at times, but at other moments she shows her strength. She is determined to break free from the life her parents have planned out for her and shows she has a backbone when necessary. I'm really curious to what will happen after this book!
I loved the audio-narration too. The female narrator really nailed Astrid's personality in the intonation she used.
May 24, 2019
Quirky 🙃
Pretty Lies is the first in its series. It’s a slow burn YA contemporary RH wherein the guys in the harem come together because of the FMC; they know of each other to an extend but they’re not friends by any means before Astrid gives them a reason to be.
Astrid being the new girl, doesn’t have many friends and is quite socially awkward, and despite this she has a spine of steel and is quite independent. She documents those around her through a lens and although she tends to invade peoples privacy it is for her own benefit. She has a hard home life being the picture perfect family of the pastor but she dreams of one day gaining her own freedom. This book shows she’s not the only one that has to don a mask to the outside world that you have to fight for your own freedom to drop the mask.
The book is well written and easy to follow, I’m sure there are others that enjoyed the plot twist as much as I did.
Pretty Lies is the first in its series. It’s a slow burn YA contemporary RH wherein the guys in the harem come together because of the FMC; they know of each other to an extend but they’re not friends by any means before Astrid gives them a reason to be.
Astrid being the new girl, doesn’t have many friends and is quite socially awkward, and despite this she has a spine of steel and is quite independent. She documents those around her through a lens and although she tends to invade peoples privacy it is for her own benefit. She has a hard home life being the picture perfect family of the pastor but she dreams of one day gaining her own freedom. This book shows she’s not the only one that has to don a mask to the outside world that you have to fight for your own freedom to drop the mask.
The book is well written and easy to follow, I’m sure there are others that enjoyed the plot twist as much as I did.
June 13, 2019
I've read all of the author's work and so when she released a YA contemporary romance, I didn't bat an eye even read the blurb as I dive in her newest book. I have no expectations whatsoever aside from I trusted the author will deliver a funny, hilarious, full of sarcastic goodness, entertaining story as was her norm. This book are those and more. What I fail to say was that buried at the very core of this story, is a heart full of angst, deep seated pain and ridden with lies.
Pretty Lies lived up to its title as the story talked about the lies that the characters feed to the people around them. Most of them were trapped to these deceptions and were powerless to get out of it, either by choice or circumstance.
The story was mostly told through Astrid's POV, with some of the boys POV interspersed. It's a slow burn, YA romance that told the story of Astrid, a senior, hippie girl who likes to stay out of the limelight. She accidentally found her photography calling when her friend, Ryan pointed her knack of capturing really good stolen shots and told her to enter an art scholarship. Given her not so great family situation, she decided to go for it and what started as getting stolen shots of people of interest in her school to showcase their "pretty lies" as the theme, lead to unexpected friendships with the nerdy debate captain, star hockey player, sexy artist and hot rockstar.
From cliquey mean girls to scandalous affair, this book was a bit slow in the beginning with it laying the groundwork for its steamier installment but I must say that it is off to a great start. I loved every embarassing, laughed-out-loud moments and wouldn't want it any other way. I'm not one to play favorites, but I'm dying to read my nerdy, gangsta boy Jonah's story next. Ugly Truths can't come soon enough!
Pretty Lies lived up to its title as the story talked about the lies that the characters feed to the people around them. Most of them were trapped to these deceptions and were powerless to get out of it, either by choice or circumstance.
The story was mostly told through Astrid's POV, with some of the boys POV interspersed. It's a slow burn, YA romance that told the story of Astrid, a senior, hippie girl who likes to stay out of the limelight. She accidentally found her photography calling when her friend, Ryan pointed her knack of capturing really good stolen shots and told her to enter an art scholarship. Given her not so great family situation, she decided to go for it and what started as getting stolen shots of people of interest in her school to showcase their "pretty lies" as the theme, lead to unexpected friendships with the nerdy debate captain, star hockey player, sexy artist and hot rockstar.
From cliquey mean girls to scandalous affair, this book was a bit slow in the beginning with it laying the groundwork for its steamier installment but I must say that it is off to a great start. I loved every embarassing, laughed-out-loud moments and wouldn't want it any other way. I'm not one to play favorites, but I'm dying to read my nerdy, gangsta boy Jonah's story next. Ugly Truths can't come soon enough!
January 29, 2025
4 hours in and I couldn’t do it anymore. What I know so far: our FMC is an only child that just turned 18 and is a PK (preacher’s kid) and freshly moved to CO. She thinks her parents are apathetic at best and wants to get away. She whines a lot. Decides she likes photography and wants a full ride scholarship to get away from said parents. Her parents are having sketchy meetings with questionable ppl that she can’t determine if it’s for the church or not. She also wants to take secret photos to 1) expose certain students from school 2) complete her portfolio for the chance at the scholarship.
About the time where she’s caught taking photos of someone at a party and leaves with boys she’s didn’t go with, I questioned why I cared. It was at this point I DNF’d.
It’s boring. It’s juvenile. It’s not for me and I don’t know how it has so many good ratings.
Also, the voices are terrible 😬 the first male voice done is with a sultry feminine purr. It was incredibly off putting.
About the time where she’s caught taking photos of someone at a party and leaves with boys she’s didn’t go with, I questioned why I cared. It was at this point I DNF’d.
It’s boring. It’s juvenile. It’s not for me and I don’t know how it has so many good ratings.
Also, the voices are terrible 😬 the first male voice done is with a sultry feminine purr. It was incredibly off putting.
May 23, 2021
Slow Start - 3.5 Stars
This is called a "slow burn," but it is a really slow start in general. Astrid is really sheltered and awkward, but I am not seeing what the guys see in her. She's not a great student, her hobby can be an invasion of privacy, and she's really not witty or funny. She's a hippy with crappy parents. That's the extent of what we know.
I like the guys, but I'm confused about how cruel this world is. Everyone has awful parents, apparently all of the students at school are unfriendly and cruel (is high school really like this nowadays??), and the world here just seems bleak for everyone. It doesn't necessarily inspire confidence in a believable happy ending. This book took a while to really get into, really picking up at the end. I'll be interested to see how the next one goes.
This is called a "slow burn," but it is a really slow start in general. Astrid is really sheltered and awkward, but I am not seeing what the guys see in her. She's not a great student, her hobby can be an invasion of privacy, and she's really not witty or funny. She's a hippy with crappy parents. That's the extent of what we know.
I like the guys, but I'm confused about how cruel this world is. Everyone has awful parents, apparently all of the students at school are unfriendly and cruel (is high school really like this nowadays??), and the world here just seems bleak for everyone. It doesn't necessarily inspire confidence in a believable happy ending. This book took a while to really get into, really picking up at the end. I'll be interested to see how the next one goes.
June 10, 2022
This is a very slow burn to the point where the FMC barely did anything but kiss. This first book in the series is her building her harem more than anything. She grew up in a strict home, where her father is a pastor and mother is the typical southern bell hostess. But behind the doors her mother verbally abuses her, pushes and smacks her. When she becomes the center of the mean girls sights the guys she has gotten to know briefly come together to help protect her as much as possible. All the FMC wants is to win the art scholarship so that she can pick her own life instead of the one her parents have planed. Her harem of guys are more than willing to help her achieve her goal of the scholarship. I see a lot of potential for the series as these guys normally wouldn't be friends and helping her be free and gain experience should be interesting.
June 9, 2022
I forgot how much i love this series!!!
Pretty Lies is book #1 in the Astrid Scott series. Its a contemporary reverse harem series.
Astrid and her family have moved to a small town close to Denver. Her dad is a pastor, and I'm not sure how to describe her mom. Super controlling and really kinda crazy. She gets the chance to get a photography scholarship and cant pass it up.
When she rejects a hot hockey player, he turns all the popular kids against her. But, Astrid has caught the attention of Rhys, a rich, hockey player, Jonah, the student body president, Thatcher, a photography student and Beck, a mechanic. They are each so different but all want to be with Astrid and protect her.
But, this new town is full of secrets and every one is hiding something.
I love this series so much and I can't wait to dive into book 2 again!
Pretty Lies is book #1 in the Astrid Scott series. Its a contemporary reverse harem series.
Astrid and her family have moved to a small town close to Denver. Her dad is a pastor, and I'm not sure how to describe her mom. Super controlling and really kinda crazy. She gets the chance to get a photography scholarship and cant pass it up.
When she rejects a hot hockey player, he turns all the popular kids against her. But, Astrid has caught the attention of Rhys, a rich, hockey player, Jonah, the student body president, Thatcher, a photography student and Beck, a mechanic. They are each so different but all want to be with Astrid and protect her.
But, this new town is full of secrets and every one is hiding something.
I love this series so much and I can't wait to dive into book 2 again!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews