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Accidental Love #2

Accidental Lies

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It was only meant to be a vacation fling…

Three blissful weeks on the beautiful island of Maui are exactly what I need… Hula dancers, Mai Tais with cocktail umbrellas, and golden beaches – what more could I want?

Then I see her, and I realize she’s exactly what I want.

She was locked outside of her hotel room, all buttoned-up in a suit definitely not appropriate for a vacation, and wearing a fierce take-no-shit stance. But I couldn’t help noticing the pain behind her eyes…

Four Mai Tais later, the chemistry between us is hotter than the Hawaiian sun, and we decide to spend the rest of our vacation unwinding, undressing, and getting to know each other a little better…

We have just two rules:
1) No talking about our lives outside Maui.
2) This is just a vacation fling.

That means I can’t tell her about the heartbreak that haunts me, and the secret I have back home. It means I can’t ask her about the sorrow in her eyes, and why she has such a wall up – a wall I’m determined to bring crashing down.

When the sun sets on our trip, can I say goodbye to this gorgeous blue-eyed beauty? Or am I going to be tempted to break the rules?

And if I do decide to be a rule-breaker, will she even want me when she finds out who I really am?

This is a full-length, standalone romance with some hot-under-the-collar action, no cheating and a guaranteed HEA. For fans of R.S Grey, Whitney G. and Vi Keeland, Accidental Lies features a hot AF alpha and a sizzling will-they-wont-they love story that will have you totally addicted!

300 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 2, 2019

226 people are currently reading
223 people want to read

About the author

Dana Mason

12 books776 followers
Dana Mason started writing about fifteen years ago after being overwhelmed by a story that wouldn’t let her sleep until she wrote it down. The story, Dangerous Embrace, was published in 2012 and won Best Mystery/Suspense from eFestival of Words Best of Independent eBook Awards in 2014. Dangerous Embrace is the first book in her Embrace Series. The second book in the series, Precious Embrace, was Runner-Up for Best Hero from eFestival of Words Best of Independent eBook Awards that same year. Her third book, Broken Embrace, was awarded Best Indie Book in 2015 in the Romance Category.
Dana loves turning your worst nightmares into happy endings. She lives in Northern California with her husband, children, and her writing companion and mighty protector, Mia the Chihuahua.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
Profile Image for Ꮗ€♫◗☿ ❤️ ilikebooksbest.com ❤️.
2,961 reviews2,680 followers
June 18, 2020
Vacation fling pact to not talk about the real world goes bad



Emily is a lawyer who lost her husband four years ago and hasn’t been able to move on. Her brother sends her on a vacation to Maui with an itinerary an instructions to get out and live a little. Drew is a single father of two who lost his wife six years ago and spends three weeks a year in Maui while his kids are with their maternal grandparents. He has dated in the past but most women find out he is a single father and are never heard from again.

Drew and Emily meet and hit it off from the start and right away they decide not to talk about anything from home. Emily doesn’t want to think about her loss and Drew doesn’t want to bring up his children so they make a pact not to talk about their pasts other than to tell each other that they are both unattached. The concept is nice and it works well for a few days while they have their fling in paradise. The author does a good job in building the romance while they are in Hawaii. The sex scenes are downright steamy.

When it comes time for Drew to leave, because he was there before Emily came, it gets pretty sad since she isn’t ready for more and doesn’t want to break the pact. She wants to keep it just a vacation fling while Dew wants more. He wants her address and phone details. Since the book is only halfway through at that point I doubt it is giving away spoilers to say they do end up seeing each other again.

My only issue with the book is how long it takes them to end up telling each other all about themselves. There is a lot of angst and back and forth about such a silly thing. Half the time she is not wanting to know and he is trying to tell her that he has kids. If I were him, I wouldn’t preface it with, “I have something to tell you” and give her the opportunity to say I don’t want to do this right now. I would just say, “I have kids” then bam it’s out there. Because when all is said and done, the kids weren’t the issue. The not telling was. Which you could see coming a mile away. Not that she didn’t have secrets too. I hope this is not giving away spoilers, because I saw this coming from the beginning. I just thought it went on a bit too long.

I voluntarily read & reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts & opinions are my own.

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Profile Image for 🦉Maggie Whitworth.
3,254 reviews113 followers
July 5, 2019
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋💋
So good .

Accidental Lies is a lesson in romance , trust and truth.
It’s a wonderful, heartbreaking at times story that twists your insides and occasionally has you tearing up.

Love how this writer takes me on such an emotional and enjoyable journey, from Hawaii to Sacramento, I’ve loved every page .

The first book of the series was good too so don’t miss either of them .

Recommended Read!

I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
Profile Image for Lisa Aiello.
1,186 reviews29 followers
December 12, 2019
3.5 stars - this is the story of two people with painful pasts meeting up on vacation and sharing a "no personal details shared" week-long hookup. They really hit it off, but grudgingly agree to just let it go. However, once back in the real world, their paths collide. By then, secrets they both have, misunderstandings, and accidental lies of omission threaten the relationship they are trying to build.

I think maybe it's just me and that I'm getting too darn old for this kind of stuff, but I found all the assumptions, missed opportunities to come clean with their secrets, and all the things that popped up when they did try to talk things through drove me nutty. Yeah, I eye-rolled too many darn times to count - her Mom shows up unexpectedly when she's about to share her secret - he ends up getting drunk due to losing his courage when he's about to share his truth, etc. etc. etc.

If you like this kind of trope, then this one is done very well and the writing is very engaging.
Profile Image for Rachel Gilbey.
3,357 reviews569 followers
July 26, 2019
The perfect accompaniment to the hottest day of the year was reading this sizzling romance.

The chemistry between Emily and drew was so clear and believable, and just so hot.

Written from both Drew and Emily's perspective in alternating chapters, you were really able to get to know both of them incredibly well.

We learnt very early on that they were both widowed, and other personal circumstances, but after they meet in Maui, and agree on a no real life rule, they are many lies of omission.

As much as I loved the hot and heavy sections in Hawaii, as we see how they meet, and off the chart the attraction clearly is, I also loved their deeper emotions, and it was after their week in paradise that the book really kicks up a gear.

I hadn't read the author's previous book, so wasn't sure what to expect, so was pleasantly surprised to see a good deal of story in the book, I could connect to both main characters, and found myself willing them to a positive conclusion despite all the misunderstandings.

Getting to know Emily and Drew's friends and families was also incredibly fun, and there were a few OMG - AHA moments as a reader you realise how things will connect and unravel a good chapter or so before the characters!

A thoroughly enjoyable, hot and steamy way to spend an afternoon, a pure pleasure to read.

Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily,
Profile Image for Alison.
3,691 reviews145 followers
July 9, 2019
DNF at 32%.

Emily's husband drowned four years ago and her brother has forced her to go on a week's holiday to Maui to rest and relax.

Drew is a widower with two small children, every summer he spends a few weeks on holiday in Maui while his in-laws have the children for the summer.

Drew and Emily agree to have a summer fling, the one condition that they don't share anything about their real lives: no jobs; no city of origin; no family; no pets, just fun and good times.

I was going along with this until Emily overhears Drew answer the phone to his daughter and when she asks who Hannah is, Drew outright lies and says that she is his roommate, he then compounds it by adding that he has two roommates. Emily then ups the ante by saying her last relationship ended badly - he freaking died!

I don't mind not telling each other things but outright lying? Unnecessary and just gave me the reason to ditch the book which wasn't engaging my attention anyway.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Maria11.
2,001 reviews45 followers
August 2, 2019
This really could not hold my attention. I ended up skipping a great deal of the book. So I really can’t say I finished it that is why I put it on my Dnf. I just wanted to see how they could end up together after lying throughout the whole book. I liked the beginning, but then it just bogged down and I started to really not care. I just couldn’t really get involved with the characters. Their pettiness, overreactions, lies, and misunderstandings frustrated me more then understanding them. The book was just not for me.

Received a copy from the publisher for an honest review.
Profile Image for Heather Fleet.
Author 23 books428 followers
August 6, 2019
I've got a new addiction! And it's totally Dana Mason's books. I read and loved Accidental Groom, so I knew I would love Accidental Lies too, so that wasn't a surprise at all.

This is Drew and Emily's story, two broken-hearted widowers who are both looking to find an outlet in their lives. They meet in Maui, and create this pretty hefty pact to keep everything between them casual... other than having hot sex of course. In turn, they can't discuss anything about their personal lives. What starts out as a little steamy fun fast turns into something neither of them ever expected: a real connection. It's an up and downhill battle between them from that point on, and let me tell you... the ANGST. It nearly killed me, but in a good way, of course.

I loved this story, plain and simple. Casual flings turning into more is one of my favorite romance tropes in romance, and Dana Mason took it to a whole other level in Accidental Lies, breaking my heart, only to piece it back together in the end. Fabulous story I can't recommend enough. .
Profile Image for Erica Paré.
464 reviews5 followers
November 10, 2019
This book was full of surprises. There were some heart touching moments, hilarious comedy moments, sexy moments, etc. I can not even begin to think about what it would be like after losing my spouse. This book brings us through the difficulties in letting go and moving on. While it may be easy to give a time line that someone should be able to move on, that doesnt always work that way. In this book both main characters are widowers, yet they dont know that in the beginning. One has been for 4 years and the other 6 years, not that time really makes a difference. When they are on vacation together they have this spark that anyone can see. Drew and Emily dont exchange any information and are then completely cranky when they are missing the other. Add in a couple kids, a reno, a jerk of a guy who cant take no as an answer, and you have yourself a great book. The book was an easy read and just kept reading wanting to find out what happens next. Would recommend this book to others
Profile Image for Els .
2,268 reviews54 followers
August 8, 2019
I normally don't read this genre very often, but when I read the blurb of the first book in this series, I gave it a go.

'Why?' I hear you thinking. Well, that's easy to explain. Often this sexy genre is about a rich man and a poor girl and the story between the sex scenes is often lacking in substance. It's more like a fairytale with hot scenes.

This books however tells the story of real people and the sizzeling scenes are what normal everyday people who love each other do. In other stories the author leaves everything unsaid. Here the author shares the action with us.

So after reading the first book, I was utterly charmed by the author's style and of course I was looking forward to read Emily's story after thoroughly enjoying her brother's story in book 1.

The sex scenes are never vulgar. The author simply writes very emotional stories doused with Pop Rocks.

The bottom line is : always be honest even if it's the toughest thing you have to do! 5 stars.

Thank you, Dana Mason, Bookouture and Netgalley.

https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
Profile Image for Clare Perry.
96 reviews
August 23, 2019
This is an amazing love story, addictive, heartbreaking and truly gripping. Emily and Drew hit it off immediately after Mac Emily’s brother arranges an enforced holiday in paradise.

There first meeting is bumping into each other after Emily gets locked out of her room, opposite Drew’s room. From that moment he is the knight in shining armour coming to her rescue. Unfortunately they come up or Emily does that they are not to share any personal information, although later on the trip little things start to come out. When the holiday is over, Drew really wants to guess at where she lives but Emily is persistent that they would not. It is heartbreaking for both of them when saying goodbye as both feel a loving connection. After weeks of being miserable and just before Emily starts thinking about a private investigator they come face to face at a business meeting and not realising he lives just down the road. Drew also left a note in her suitcase, with his details but having not unpacked at being so unhappy it does not come out till much later.

This one reminds me of the importance of what is actually important and how we all get wrapped up with work forgetting what’s truly important. I was also amazed at Drew’s ability to see through her and the facade from the first moments together. There are also few nice surprises and truths to come out, which eventually concludes to my favourite type of happy ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for RONI FIELDS-OWEN.
151 reviews1 follower
July 8, 2020
You meet someone on a Hawaiian Islands and the two of you agree that outside of your first names you don't tell each other anything else about yourself. The two of you just enjoy the week together, and NO mentioning of your life back home.


Well that sounds all good to me, until the end of the week arrives.  One of you wants to change the rule and exchange mobile number or addresses and she's comfortable with the the initiation agreement.


Accidental lies is about the discovery of one lie after another. There's exciting secrets revealed and a new family is made.


The author Dana Mason did a wonderful job with the storyline. the narrator Kelsey Navarro did an awesome job telling the story. If you haven't read "Accidental Groom" prior to reading this book, you may want to go back and read it 1st. Although, this novel would be considered an standalone, it helps with some of the characters in this book that are introduced in that one.


msronigirl
Profile Image for Debbie.
281 reviews1 follower
November 6, 2021
A great read. When Emily’s brother sends her on a long overdue vacation she didn’t realise that a vacation fling can have lasting consequences.
Drew is having his annual vacation when he spots Emily and is drawn to her, but with a no outside talking ban he gets to know her and wants to see her again. When work brings them together again they have many real life hurdles to get over. A feel good story and great addition to the series.
Profile Image for Lori Hammons.
2,872 reviews28 followers
October 29, 2021
Drew and Emily meet by chance on vacation and agree to keep it an anonymous fling. Then they meet by chance on-the-job after missing one another desparately. They both make mistakes, continue to keep secrets and it eventually blows up in their faces. Picking up the pieces is difficult. I thoroughly enjoyed their story.
Profile Image for Toni.
1,569 reviews64 followers
July 19, 2019
This is the second book in the Accidental Love series by Dana Mason.

Basic premise: Emily’s brother, Mac, forces her to take a week vacation in Maui. While she is there they suggest she should have a casual fling with no strings attached. She meets Drew and the two hit it off famously. He is already nearing the end of his three week annual vacation and when he goes, home neither knows how to contact the other. They are each lost in their own way once they are without the other. But surprisingly, they meet a week after Emily returns to Sacramento as Drew comes in as the contractor to fix the Victorian home they are using as an office space.

When both are back on somewhat solid ground, Emily quickly realizes she is pregnant. And the drama only increases from there. Add into the mix that Drew has two kids he didn’t tell her about and the fallout is going to be catastrophic.

I spent this whole book yelling at the characters to just freaking talk to each other. There was a gaggle of misunderstandings littered throughout this book. They wanted to remain somewhat anonymous which is why they had the rules: It is only a fling. And no talking about their lives back home. This, of course, throws them into so much hot water I am surprised they both didn’t get scalded.

Reader warning: You might get a bit of emotional stress reading this book since you tend to become uber invested in their relationship. Be prepared to start rooting for them to become a couple at the end. I know I did. I wanted this to work out. I was a cheerleader. The author did have me worried a number of times as to whether that would happen or not. But that is what authors do, they torment us. The make us read faster and harder.

I was completely absorbed in this book and was a bit sad when I had to let it go at the end. There is a first book in this series which features Emily’s brother Mackenzie and his wife. I knew when I finished this, I had to web surf my way on Amazon to purchase that title. I am hooked. This is a new author for me and I was not disappointed.

I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
Profile Image for Bette.
3,294 reviews24 followers
August 11, 2019
Terrific Story & Audible Listen🎧 4.5 Enjoyable Stars🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Accidental Lies
An Unputdownable, Steamy, Sexy Contemporary Romance Novel
By: Dana Mason
Narrated by: Kelsey Navarro

This is my first book by Dana Mason and I enjoyed everything about it, from her writing style to the characters and storylines she created. The book captured my attention right from the start and held it straight to the end. The characters are complex and well developed, I liked both leads, each were dealing with their own heartbreaks and issues. Emily’s brother sends her on a much needed vacation, it has been four years without her husband, she only buried herself in work and has not moved on. She did not have high hopes for the vacation but decided to make the best of it. Especially after seeing the hunk of a guy who helped her when she locked herself out of her room. Drew is on his annual vacation and staying across form Emily, he felt an instant attraction to her but it was not until the next day when the two got to know each other better. I loved the chemistry between them, they agree on a no questions asked vacation fling. A smoking hot fling. He leaves before her but because of their no questions no expectations they do not exchange personal information. Something each regret right away and when they arrive home they try to track each other down. I liked how they wind up meeting up again, how each wound up holding back because of they were afraid to share things and their insecurities. Their half-truths and omissions caused a lot of drama and angst. They were so good together, they just needed to believe in themselves and each other and let it all work out. Thank you Dana Mason for this great, romantic story and the emotional rollercoaster ride.

I listened to the Audible edition, Kelsey Navarro is a wonderful narrator and voice performer. She brings these characters to life, gives each their own voice and personality. She does a great job projecting the emotions of the characters and the drama of the story into her performance. She is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for this great listen🎧

Thank you 🎧@AudiobookObsession #AudiobookObsession #AudiobookObsessionReviewer
Profile Image for Elaine - Splashes Into Books.
3,883 reviews137 followers
August 5, 2019
This is a story of two people both of whom's spouse died some years ago but they have struggled to move on. Emily is a lawyer who has used her job to distract her but her brother, Mac, has sent her on holiday to Maui, arranging things for her to do to ensure she gets to live a little whilst she's there. Drew is now a single Dad with two children who spends three weeks every year at the same resort whilst his children stay with their maternal grandparents. He has tried dating again but most women run when they discover he is a single Dad.


Fate brings this pair together.  The attraction is mutual and they agree to have a holiday fling and, after confirming they really are both single, they make a pact not to discuss anything about their pasts. That's fine whilst they are on holiday but the attraction between them grown, could this be more than a very steamy holiday romance? Emily is adamant about not exchanging more information so, when the two go their separate ways, they have no way to get back in touch with each other..... It is such a great job that fate will intervene again - but you need to read it yourself to discover just what happens!


This is one of those stories where if only the two main characters would talk to each other and listen to what the other has to say, so much angst would have been avoided! However, that wouldn't make a very good story, would it? So, this is really a story about learning to give your partner time to talk and to listen to what they have to say - and being honest with each other and not telling lies, not even by omission! It is an engaging read and works well as a standalone. I discovered there's an earlier book in the series after finishing this one but the author provides plenty of background information as the story progresses so you don't feel you're missing something important if, like me, you haven't read the earlier book. 


I requested and was gifted a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
Profile Image for Roma.
172 reviews545 followers
July 23, 2019
Title: Accidental Lies

Author: Dana Mason

Length: 295 pages

Publisher: Bookouture

Publication Date: August 7, 2019

Genre: Romance, Fiction, Drama, Relationships

My rating: 4/5

Summary:

The story is a love story of Emily and Drew who meet while on a vacation and keep their lives a secret and a lie that Drew tells about himself accidently which creates complications in their lives later.

My Take:

I would like to thank the publisher Bookouture and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC of this book to read and review.

I wanted a light read and hence went in for this one and proved to be the right choice. The book is an absolute light read with not much melodrama. You can forget your life while engrossing in this romantic saga.

The story is a fast paced book and never drags at any place. It’s written from the perspectives of the main protagonists Emily and Drew’s in first person. The required depth in their characterisation is present. You simply fall in love with the character of Drew. The character of Drew can only be found in the books like these. The complications in their relationship are portrayed nicely.

The book makes one realise how important a role communication plays in everybody’s lives. Gaps in communication can create havoc in any relationship. The book has lots of intimate scenes, considering it’s a romantic story was required. The pace of the book never falters at any place.

After reading author’s note I realised that this is the second book in accidental series. The first one being Accidental Groom which is the story of Emily’s brother Mac. M sure I’ll pick that book when I feel like indulging in some light reading.

An apt book if you are feeling a bit low and need a smile on your face. I loved this one.
408 reviews
August 4, 2019
My brother arranged a week in paradise for me, after the horrible four years I’ve had. After losing my husband, my life has been a fog. So I guess this vacation in Maui is what I need. However, it didn’t start out well. I lock myself out of my room, but then this handsome man comes to my rescue. When we run into each other at the Luau that same evening, I get shit face drunk! This could really have turned out so wrong for me. Thank goodness he’s a gentleman since he put me to bed in my room. Now we are spending every minute together, but we have one rule, don’t talk about who we are or what we do. This is an island fling only. What happens in Maui stays in Maui. Why does it feel like it could be so much more.

Drew takes three weeks off every year just to unwind, and Maui is the perfect spot to do that. After losing his wife, his two children have become his reason for living. Meeting the beautiful Emily was the best surprise. He’s never met anyone like her and their chemistry is off the charts. As her week comes to an end, he’s regretting the stupid rule they made. Drew wants to see where this goes when they return home. He doesn’t even know where she lives!

Now that he’s back in Sacramento, Drew is determined to find Emily, but first he needs to meet with his new clients. Whoa the last person Drew figured he would see is her! She’s his new client and he can’t believe his luck. Things aren’t all roses, thou, Emily is still hiding something and he’s determined to find out what it is. Now that he’s found her, Drew is never letting her go!

I could not put this book down! The story line, the characters, everything was perfect.
I received a copy of this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Katie Mettner.
Author 108 books1,667 followers
August 2, 2019
We meet Emily in the first book and I was immediately curious about her story. Dana did not disappoint in the tales she told! Emily is a flawed, damaged, heartbroken woman who definitely needs to get away from her life for a little while. She begrudgingly goes to a resort for a week and immediately meets a man who stirs something inside her. She has been dead inside since the death of her husband four years earlier, so the fact that he made her feel that way surprised her.

They enjoy dinner and from there decide a vacation fling is okay, as long as they don't talk about their real lives. She doesn't want to talk about her dead husband and Drew doesn't want to talk about his kids or his dead wife. This is where the lies come in. To be fair, they aren't accidental in the way they are told, they are purposeful, but for a reason. I think we all have a fantasy of being someone we aren't, even for just a few days. Emily and Drew did this, but it caused them more problems than they could ever have predicted.

I loved the characters and the setting of Accidental Lies. I think the characters had the right amount of depth and you watched Emily grow from being sad and afraid to strong and resilient. This was a hot and sexy book with a serious side that you'll love. It's important to not take the title overly literal because focusing on that will only keep you from grasping the true depth of the story. I like how Dana let us see Mac and Kelley from the first book again a little bit, but if you haven't read the first book, you can easily read this one and not be confused. I can't wait for the third book in this series!
Profile Image for Rolé - Hooked By That Book.
748 reviews26 followers
August 28, 2019
Emily is still grieving for her husband after 4 years. Her brother Mac sends her to Maui to take a break and have some fun. There she meets Drew, who is a widower with two small children. But they agree to not share anything about their personal lives. They spend a magical week together and both are sad when it came to an end. Drew wanted to continue their relationship, but Emily was leery and didn’t want to borrow trouble.

Unexpectedly, Drew turned out to be the contractor who was going to do the renovation work on Emily and her law partner’s new office. They reconnect, but pretty soon all their deliberate omissions catch up with them. Both have to deal with some very tough emotions, especially after Emily finds out she’s pregnant.

I liked Drew a lot, Emily was a bit harder to warm up to. Drew had some issues of his own, but he was willing to move on and take a risk. Emily was still stuck in the past and her feelings of guilt concerning her dead husband. She had a lot of moments of self-flagellation and self pity.

It was a fun read and Drew’s kids were great. Emily did manage to look past her insecurities to give Drew a chance. I still feel that Drew had a better story arc in terms of coming to grips with his problems and growing as a person.

I received an advanced copy of the book from Netgalley to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Karen Hrdlicka.
1,346 reviews27 followers
November 7, 2019
After reading Accidental Groom, I was hoping for more about Mac's sister, Emily. She appeared to be an uptight lawyer but once the reader knows why, it's hard not to feel compassion for her and hope for and HEA in her future. Her loving brother sends his overworked sister to Hawaii on vacation, much to her dismay. However, after a misunderstanding she meets her hotel neighbor, the devastatingly handsome Drew.
A pact is made, they will spend their week together but not talk about their reality back home. A decision that will come back to cause more than one misunderstanding and problems in the future. As their fling looks to become more their week ends, but since they don't know where the other lives, they decide on a clean break. Drew tries hard to get Emily to change her mind, but the stubborn lawyer kicks back to life and they go their separate ways. However, neither is happy without the other in their lives. It's obvious to the couple and the reader their time together was much more than just a fling. And there lies the rub, the reality of their stateside lives has more pitfalls for their potential relationship than either could imagine.
Both main characters have had tragedy strike their lives, and neither was having any luck moving forward until their Hawaiian fling. Once home, they have issues communicating what their real life is like, preferring to try to remain in their vacation bubble, especially Emily. Ms. Mason does a superb job of building the romance in the couple's tropical paradise. Not only is their vacation romantic, the sexual tension between the couple is well played out and adds so much to their story. While their road to their HEA is filled with potholes and U-turns, the journey is so worth it.
Drew is truly a swoon worthy guy: he's considerate, thoughtful, nurturing, hard working, and passionate. Though he is heartbroken by his past, he wouldn't trade his life for anything. Emily harbors so much quilt from her past, she finds it difficult to move forward, even when circumstances dictate she must.
I love this series. The writing is tight, the characters well-defined, and the plot well-paced. The author writes realistic emotions and great banter between characters. Ms. Mason gives the reader a glimpse of the couple from the first book, which is something I always appreciate in a series. I cannot wait to see where the series goes from here. I heartily recommend this book and this series.
I listen to this book, narrated by Kelsey Navarro. She does an excellent job showcasing the emotions of the characters and her repertoire of voices never leaves the listener wondering who is speaking. I will definitely be looking for more books narrated by her.

Profile Image for Jamie.
119 reviews
June 30, 2019
I received an ARC copy through Netgalley.
I really enjoyed this book! This is the first book I have ever read by Dana Mason (my first ever ARC as well!) and I honestly am looking forward to reading more of her work. The story pulled me in from the very beginning and I really loved the characters, especially Drew. Great supporting characters as well, and Rebecca was such a great, supportive friend to Emily.
One thing I really liked (its very insignificant, but I want to point it out) is that in so many romance novels that I have read, there is a scene where the heroine drinks too much and needs “taken care of”, which was also the case in this book, however instead of getting very sick, needing her hair held back, etc., Drew put her to bed and that was it, she was fine the next day. I just really liked that, because not every woman is such a lightweight!
Towards the end I did start to get frustrated with Emily. In my opinion she was acting just like Grant in that she was just not listening to what Drew was saying and trying to tell her at all! And he should have just made himself heard, ugh! But it all worked out in the end, which speaking of the ending… Loved it!!
Profile Image for NovelMomma.
341 reviews13 followers
November 20, 2019
I really enjoyed this story. Both of the characters had such tragic and interesting backstories. I wanted each of them to find happiness, but I found myself wanting to yell at them about their accidental lies!

This story has several twists and turns that had me on the edge of my seat waiting to find out how this couple would find their way out of the holes they were digging. I really liked both characters, and they were clearly good for one another, but their initial agreement led to so many messes they had to find their way out of. While there were several twists and turns, I didn't find the story overly angsty, just more complicated. Once I started listening, I couldn't stop.

The narration for this story was well done overall. The pacing was good, and it was high quality. My only complaint was the lack in different character voices. Because there was little change, and this was told from dual point of view with little segue, it was sometimes confusing when we changed perspective, especially in the beginning. As the story went, the breaks became a bit more clear, but at times I still had to work to decipher which character was speaking.

#AudiobookObsessionReview
Profile Image for Dark Syde Books.
186 reviews16 followers
August 11, 2019
I should preface this review by stating that I'm usually into a much darker romance read, but I went on a limb with a nice contemporary read with this one. I was definitely not disappointed because this story was great! This is the story of a widow and widower who have a very reluctant fling while on vacation in Hawaii, and the story follows how their hearts grow for one another and we see their journeys following the fling. The author's writing is absolutely superb and the flow of the story is fantastic. I was never bored and really wanted to see how the characters' stories were going to unfold. There wasn't a single minute in the book where I questioned what the author was trying to convey and, at the same time, could never predict where things were going to go. I think that's important in a great story - it was relatable but not predictable or stale. I love refreshing whirlwind romance stories and this is definitely that. So if you're into a story about finding next love after losing first love, I highly recommend this story!
Profile Image for Dawn.
573 reviews5 followers
August 23, 2019
Emily is forced to take a vacation in beautiful Hawaii. She has been a workaholic and regrets it, but does not know how else to keep busy now. Drew is a single dad who goes to this resort once a year. Both of them are widowed and facing demons, they do not share easy. Yet Drew seems to constantly be rescuing Emily. It is as if fate wants them together. They should know better than to fight fate. As a reader, you know more about the characters. I found myself yelling at them for one thing or another. I love how they are so different from the deceased spouses, yet perfect for each other at this time in their lives. But will it all collapse, when they realize the lies that have been told? I loved every word of this book. I could not stop listening and finished it in one day.

Kelsey Navarro brought this story to life. She has an easy to listen to voice and made the narration enjoyable. Her separation of the charater tones was easy to follow and smooth. Male characters were easy to tell.from female characters. Bringing out Emily's attitudes was perfect by Ms. Navarro. This is my first narration with Ms. Navarro. I hope to hear more from her.
Profile Image for Jess.
3,184 reviews27 followers
July 1, 2019
This story was amazing! Absolutely amazing! I’m not sure I can do this one justice. That’s how much I enjoyed it!

I read book 1 where we meet Emily and I did NOT think I could like her! At all! She wasn’t portrayed very well and came across as a you know what. She almost ruined her brother’s marriage! WTF?!?!
But then we meet her in this book. She’s sad and lonely. A workaholic.
She’s only on vacation curtesy or her brother. She appears uptight and frigid at first. Good thing Drew is able to see past her outer shell so to speak.

Now we start the vacation fling.
Less then a week.
Nothing personal is discussed.
No past.
No numbers or addresses exchanged.

I wonder what could go wrong with this???
Hmmmm....
Such a dumb idea, right?

I highly recommend this great story!
It CAN be read on its own.
It had all the feelings!!!
Profile Image for Escape_in_a_Book.
239 reviews15 followers
August 7, 2019
This cute and quick read follows a couple who meet on their island escape, a Maui resort. They agree to not talk about their lives “back home” and instead enjoy their brief time together. Neither expected to catch feelings and grow attached. What unfolds is a story that won’t deliver world peace or shake your belief in deep issues. It will make your heart happy and let your mind vacation for a bit. This is the second book in a series but is easily read as a standalone.

This is described as a “steamy” contemporary romance buuuuut I didn’t find it that steamy. Maybe my brain has been battered by too many highly descriptive romance books lately. Is that even possible?🧐 Nahhhh.🤪

I received a complimentary advance copy of this title from the publisher. All comments and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Patty.
5,129 reviews55 followers
August 27, 2019
Accidental Lies
An Unputdownable, Steamy, Sexy Contemporary Romance Novel
By: Dana Mason
Narrated by: Kelsey Navarro

There is something to be said when an author can take a serious storyline, add some humor and steam and make it not only a fun read, but one with a good message. We met Emily in the first book of this series, and now we get her story. Several years since the death of her husband, she is still having trouble moving on. A trip to Hawaii is hopefully going to help get her life together. When she meets Drew, all bets are off, except no personal information about life is exchanged. But will this work? I really enjoyed the story for both Emily and Drew. They both carry some heavy baggage, and it's always fun to watch as stories develop. Not always predictable, we do get to watch these two characters grow stronger. I love Dana Mason's style and can't wait for more of her.

Now the narration. Kelsey Navarro does an amazing job. She is quickly becoming a go to for me, with a perfect pace and voices that fit the characters. She has great comedic timing, and adds that fun and flirty vibe throughout the book. I really enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Claire.
1,106 reviews183 followers
January 27, 2021
Well hello Drew!!! Where can I find a builder like Drew?! Cost would be a second thought if Drew turned up to quote 🔥😍🔥 yes I have a fictional crush!!

Accidental Lies is dripping with lust from the start in the idyllic setting of Hawaii. Emily is sent off by her brother to have a serious break from reality; little did she know what would happen next. After years of avoiding relationships, Emily meets the rather delicious Drew. And oh boy!! This is one hell of a holiday fling 🔥🔥

This book is definitely not for the prudish!!! The bedroom scenes are sexy AF. Holy moly!!! There is some serious electricity between these two consenting adults! I feel flushed at the thought of their intimate sessions, so I’ll let you imagine my reaction whilst I was reading! And now I’ve a dirty smirk splattered across my face, thinking about it all 😆😆

Needless to say, I was glued to my kindle, reading Accidental Lies in two sittings (with only a night’s sleep in between). This steamy novel really captured my imagination, the emotional rollercoaster of a hot physical relationship between Emily and Drew where past loves have caused such heartache. I’ll be reading the rest of this trilogy for sure!!!
Profile Image for bookgerm.
87 reviews13 followers
July 22, 2019
A sweet story about two people finding love while also dealing with the loss of their significant others and the pain & baggage that comes with it.


I gave this book 3.6 ⭐️

ARC provided by Net galley for an honest review

Emily & drew meet while on vacation in Maui, while Emily is still trying to deal with living without her husband, not being able to enjoy the simple things in life, Drew who’s gone through the same stages of moving on helps her simply by being there for her.
“You be whatever you need to be, and if that’s ridiculous, so be it.”

They make this stupid pact of not telling each other anything real about themselves, that ends up creating a big bag of lies and mess.
I liked how sweet and understanding Drew was towards Emily.
The biggest issue in this story was Emily & Drew’s insecurities getting the best of them, i found that very real, but it got frustrating at times and I didn’t enjoy how they both quickly jumped into conclusions & Emily was always really quick to assume wrong things about Drew, again, it was in fact because of her insecurities, and she does realize she’d been an asshole.
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