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Astrid Scott #2
Ugly Truths
Four guys. One girl. Dangerous truths.
Now that I maneuvered my parents into giving me the future I wanted, life seems easy. I finally have some freedom to enjoy my senior year without feeling like I’m slowly suffocating under the twisted morals and warped expectations of my parents.
But it’s not long until everything starts to fall apart. The pretty lies that kept my world tied up in a pretty red bow? They’re starting to unravel.
And not just for me. Something’s wrong with Jonah. No matter how I push, he’s not letting me or the guys in to help.
Then there’s the tension between Thatcher and Beck. Not to mention the sudden change in my friendship with Rhys.
How do you stay afloat when the ugly truths emerge from the pretty lies?
You don’t.
Now that I maneuvered my parents into giving me the future I wanted, life seems easy. I finally have some freedom to enjoy my senior year without feeling like I’m slowly suffocating under the twisted morals and warped expectations of my parents.
But it’s not long until everything starts to fall apart. The pretty lies that kept my world tied up in a pretty red bow? They’re starting to unravel.
And not just for me. Something’s wrong with Jonah. No matter how I push, he’s not letting me or the guys in to help.
Then there’s the tension between Thatcher and Beck. Not to mention the sudden change in my friendship with Rhys.
How do you stay afloat when the ugly truths emerge from the pretty lies?
You don’t.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 16, 2019
115 people are currently reading
260 people want to read
About the author
Blake Blessing
39 books484 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
October 13, 2019
Life can be hard as behind everyone's perfect facades they are in fact hiding ugly truths that they push further and further down and try to forget about it as if the truths ever reached the surface it would break them and expose them for the frauds they are. In Book #2 we have Astrid who is enjoying her slight freedom from her mother after seeing her father in a compromising position with Rhys's father. Her mother knows something is up, but at the moment is keeping her cool but Astrid doesn't think it's for long as she is starting to crack and her usual self is starting to seep through the layers. Jonah tried to escape from his family trailer trash and wanting a better life worked hard, but of course he's been roped back in and if he doesn't do what they say, then he is dead. Rhys is still trying to avoid his cousin who has his father wrapped around his little finger. Beck is trying to juggle his two lives of his junkie mother and work and putting on a happy facade for Astrid and Thatcher with his drunk father. Everyone is hiding something in their life. Ugly Truths focused on Astrid having a few firsts with the guys, Jonah discovering the truth about his mother and father and learning he has a whole family out there who actually cared about him, Beck learning he has been hating the wrong people for his mum's addiction and that he really did have people he could lean on and a sibling closer than he realized. Thatcher's life will come to a halt when he gets a call from his sister about their father and Rhys's cousin will push him too far and may cause him to jeopardize his future. I have to admit I find Astrid a tad frustrating as she is jangling the boy's feelings as they all love her and want her. It's like we get it, you were an innocent church girl but now you have your own harem - embrace them all and stop playing one against the other. This book ended on a cliffhanger and now I am looking forward to reading Book #3 when it is published and went on Amazon and it is still not on pre-order.
June 18, 2022
More Astrid and her guys?! Yes please! Astrid’s life has been mostly smooth sailing since the deal with her dad after the big discovery in book one. Things start to escalate and spiral out of control again, and Astrid finds herself both leaning on her friends and trying to support them through their own struggles.
We get to know the guys better, particularly Rhys and Jonah, in this book. It feels like everyone has a secret come out or they find out something life-changing. It all flows really well, balancing angst and drama against sweet and romantic. Astrid stands her ground in more ways than one, while also battling confusing feelings for each of the guys. This is still slow-burn, although things pick up a tiny bit more from book one.
Based on the ending (no spoilers), I foresee bigger drama and some unexpected conflicts making things interesting.
We get to know the guys better, particularly Rhys and Jonah, in this book. It feels like everyone has a secret come out or they find out something life-changing. It all flows really well, balancing angst and drama against sweet and romantic. Astrid stands her ground in more ways than one, while also battling confusing feelings for each of the guys. This is still slow-burn, although things pick up a tiny bit more from book one.
Based on the ending (no spoilers), I foresee bigger drama and some unexpected conflicts making things interesting.
August 16, 2019
Lackluster
After reading the first book in the Astrid Scott series I was really looking forward to this book. Unfortunately, I feel like Ugly Truths is not as good of a story.
In my opinion this is not a romance series. This series is two books in and the most that’s happened romance wise is that she’s kissed a couple of the guys once. And I’m not even sure I’m upset with that because I don’t like one of the guys at all, and out of the remaining three I’m only convinced one is a good choice as of now.
This book has a lot of drama, and jumps around a lot. I think Blake Blessing would have been more successful either making a fictional story that focused on one or two of the drama filled plot lines or trying to focus on the romance aspect. Trying to do it all is just not working.
After reading the first book in the Astrid Scott series I was really looking forward to this book. Unfortunately, I feel like Ugly Truths is not as good of a story.
In my opinion this is not a romance series. This series is two books in and the most that’s happened romance wise is that she’s kissed a couple of the guys once. And I’m not even sure I’m upset with that because I don’t like one of the guys at all, and out of the remaining three I’m only convinced one is a good choice as of now.
This book has a lot of drama, and jumps around a lot. I think Blake Blessing would have been more successful either making a fictional story that focused on one or two of the drama filled plot lines or trying to focus on the romance aspect. Trying to do it all is just not working.
November 29, 2021
More Astrid and her Four Admirers. Solving Problems and Saving the World
This second book centred mainly around Jonah
If you have already read the first book you would know the predicament he ended up in regarding his mother & how it’s now having a fallout on his future.
So
It’s not long before the ever observant Astrid begins to pick up upon his absences from the group plus his closed off behaviour.
And, Astrid being Astrid, she wants to know what going on.In her own immutable style, she asks Jonah outright.
Clearly aware of the type of people he’s involved with, he isn’t too fourth coming.
Well, Astrid is having none of that, now that she has her hot guy friends group, she’s not going to let ANYTHING slip past her & come between them.
I mean, this is a girl who has lived her life as a loner,in the shadows
NOW she has this smorgasbord of hot guys desperate for her affection. She ain’t letting THEM go in a hurry.
Gosh!
It’s enough to make a preachers daughter, with limited life, or social experiences a little giddy And controlling, And needy. Desperate to keep all her admirers dangling while she samples the wares of all, but promises them no exclusivity in return.
So.
When it not all about Jonah, & the Scooby Gang trying to dig him out of a very precarious situation, its all about Astrid’s on going developing relationships with the four guys.
A few hot kisses a LOT of tingling touches, is all Astrid will allow while she works her way through her confused, new sexual awakening.
What’s a girl to do when you’ve grown up with bible thumpers for parents, but your treading very closely into RH relationship territory, because you can’t chose?
Meanwhile Mr Bennet & Mr Scott continue with their *cough* ‘arrangement’
Astrid’s mother, who has had the blinders lifted, is even more manic than before
And, cousins Rhy’s & Trey are still punching the ever lovin, S out of each other unable to settle their hatred.
As much as I liked the first book, my interest is starting to wain a little with this second instalment.
Mainly due to the guys sycophantic behaviour around Astrid as they ALL compete for her attention.
Throwing up lines like this from Thatcher
“Astrid was the sun we revolved around, giving guys from different walks of life a unique connection.” …Yeah.
Astrid has gone from this sweet girl into a demanding, controlling, at times needy B.
Since when does she possess all the answers know to man!.
If you don’t want her advice, WELL she’s going to give it to you anyway
She such a busy body.
She wants in on every aspect of the guys lives, putting it down to her curiosity.
I’d call it nosey.
Especially now, considering she has started to develop feelings for them all, & not just the ‘we are all friends’ kind.
She’s possessive, wanting to keep ‘her guys’ close to her.
Getting off on their adoration.,a very familiar RH trope
Point in case -
The Jonah situation.
Thatcher says to Astrid, ‘let him have his privacy’
Where she thinks ‘but that wasn’t good for me.’ Going on to say-
“Then he needs us.”.The decision was made. We’d go after him, show him he couldn’t be a dick & push us away. Then we’d get the details & work out how to solve his problem. And then I’d have a good long lecture with him on how to never again get into this brand of trouble again.”
I’m sorry but…Who the F does Astrid think she is?
Okay, I get she’s had a closeted upbringing, having friends, let alone GUY friends it all new to her, but, come on, her bossy, smoothing instincts, are to much.
She NEEDS the be the one constant in ALL their lives, their glue, mothering them, fussing over them…ITS DRIVING ME CRAZY!!!
It’s ALL about Astrid, how dare they upset HER life by making stupid decisions.
The absolute audacity of her, a sheltered preachers daughter, to think that she & her Scooby Gang, Sorry! ‘Astrid’s Heroes’ are going to solve everyone’s issues
It bugged me when Astrid calls ‘her meetings’ & all the guys must come running,
And WHY is it When ever the guys tell her something personal about their lives, she always makes sure to ‘thank’ them for sharing.
GAH!
She’s Mother Theresa relieving them of all their pain & in return she gets their devotion.
She collects their secrets so she can offer up her words of wisdom.
While taking her photos..Of course
I’d never been a part of a group that felt so strongly for each other, they felt each other’s pain. If it wasn’t so heartbreaking, it would be beautiful
Ugh!
Kill me now.
But to top the whole story off.
Once Jonah’s problem was alleviated & boy, talk about a revelation there.
We finally move on to resolving Rhy’s problem… TREY
How convenient for Rhy that Trey went off the deep end, so everyone’s little problem solver Astrid, could suggest that maybe, just maybe, Rhy could speak to his father about Trey getting some help from a mental health professional.
This was the break he/they needs to get himself back on the Hockey team
& be seen by the scouts
Yep.
By the end of this book I was over Astrid the miracle worker ‘righting everyone’s wrongs’.
So all her broken boyfriends can get their HEA’s & live …well with HER of course.
I would love for once, just once for a situation to arise that Astrid & her merry men DON’T have all the answers for.
They need something really major to come between them
Yeah. Think I Might be over this series now.
This second book centred mainly around Jonah
If you have already read the first book you would know the predicament he ended up in regarding his mother & how it’s now having a fallout on his future.
So
It’s not long before the ever observant Astrid begins to pick up upon his absences from the group plus his closed off behaviour.
And, Astrid being Astrid, she wants to know what going on.In her own immutable style, she asks Jonah outright.
Clearly aware of the type of people he’s involved with, he isn’t too fourth coming.
Well, Astrid is having none of that, now that she has her hot guy friends group, she’s not going to let ANYTHING slip past her & come between them.
I mean, this is a girl who has lived her life as a loner,in the shadows
NOW she has this smorgasbord of hot guys desperate for her affection. She ain’t letting THEM go in a hurry.
Gosh!
It’s enough to make a preachers daughter, with limited life, or social experiences a little giddy And controlling, And needy. Desperate to keep all her admirers dangling while she samples the wares of all, but promises them no exclusivity in return.
So.
When it not all about Jonah, & the Scooby Gang trying to dig him out of a very precarious situation, its all about Astrid’s on going developing relationships with the four guys.
A few hot kisses a LOT of tingling touches, is all Astrid will allow while she works her way through her confused, new sexual awakening.
What’s a girl to do when you’ve grown up with bible thumpers for parents, but your treading very closely into RH relationship territory, because you can’t chose?
Meanwhile Mr Bennet & Mr Scott continue with their *cough* ‘arrangement’
Astrid’s mother, who has had the blinders lifted, is even more manic than before
And, cousins Rhy’s & Trey are still punching the ever lovin, S out of each other unable to settle their hatred.
As much as I liked the first book, my interest is starting to wain a little with this second instalment.
Mainly due to the guys sycophantic behaviour around Astrid as they ALL compete for her attention.
Throwing up lines like this from Thatcher
“Astrid was the sun we revolved around, giving guys from different walks of life a unique connection.” …Yeah.
Astrid has gone from this sweet girl into a demanding, controlling, at times needy B.
Since when does she possess all the answers know to man!.
If you don’t want her advice, WELL she’s going to give it to you anyway
She such a busy body.
She wants in on every aspect of the guys lives, putting it down to her curiosity.
I’d call it nosey.
Especially now, considering she has started to develop feelings for them all, & not just the ‘we are all friends’ kind.
She’s possessive, wanting to keep ‘her guys’ close to her.
Getting off on their adoration.,a very familiar RH trope
Point in case -
The Jonah situation.
Thatcher says to Astrid, ‘let him have his privacy’
Where she thinks ‘but that wasn’t good for me.’ Going on to say-
“Then he needs us.”.The decision was made. We’d go after him, show him he couldn’t be a dick & push us away. Then we’d get the details & work out how to solve his problem. And then I’d have a good long lecture with him on how to never again get into this brand of trouble again.”
I’m sorry but…Who the F does Astrid think she is?
Okay, I get she’s had a closeted upbringing, having friends, let alone GUY friends it all new to her, but, come on, her bossy, smoothing instincts, are to much.
She NEEDS the be the one constant in ALL their lives, their glue, mothering them, fussing over them…ITS DRIVING ME CRAZY!!!
It’s ALL about Astrid, how dare they upset HER life by making stupid decisions.
The absolute audacity of her, a sheltered preachers daughter, to think that she & her Scooby Gang, Sorry! ‘Astrid’s Heroes’ are going to solve everyone’s issues
It bugged me when Astrid calls ‘her meetings’ & all the guys must come running,
And WHY is it When ever the guys tell her something personal about their lives, she always makes sure to ‘thank’ them for sharing.
GAH!
She’s Mother Theresa relieving them of all their pain & in return she gets their devotion.
She collects their secrets so she can offer up her words of wisdom.
While taking her photos..Of course
I’d never been a part of a group that felt so strongly for each other, they felt each other’s pain. If it wasn’t so heartbreaking, it would be beautiful
Ugh!
Kill me now.
But to top the whole story off.
Once Jonah’s problem was alleviated & boy, talk about a revelation there.
We finally move on to resolving Rhy’s problem… TREY
How convenient for Rhy that Trey went off the deep end, so everyone’s little problem solver Astrid, could suggest that maybe, just maybe, Rhy could speak to his father about Trey getting some help from a mental health professional.
This was the break he/they needs to get himself back on the Hockey team
& be seen by the scouts
Yep.
By the end of this book I was over Astrid the miracle worker ‘righting everyone’s wrongs’.
So all her broken boyfriends can get their HEA’s & live …well with HER of course.
I would love for once, just once for a situation to arise that Astrid & her merry men DON’T have all the answers for.
They need something really major to come between them
Yeah. Think I Might be over this series now.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2019
I’m extremely sleep deprived and it’s all Blake Blessing‘s fault.
Ha. Just kidding 😉 But I did spend a couple nights staying up way too late to read this book. (And before I lose my book blogging cred, I can easily polish off a book in a day, but I don’t always have the ability to do so.)
Ugly Truths picks up where Pretty Lies left off. We get to find out if Astrid’s mom is still an abusive bitch and if her dad is holding up his end of the bargain that they made at the end of book 1. We also get a deeper look into Jonah’s life and exactly why Beck has hated him so much for so long.
Between college plans, family difficulties, bullying, unexpected fights, and a plethora of shocking revelations, sexy flirtations, and some drama, this book pretty much had it all. I will say I definitely enjoyed this book more than the first, but that’s not too surprising considering the first book was just setting the story for the series and didn’t go as in-depth as this one did.
I wasn’t sure what to make of Astrid in the first book. She was a mess of contradictions (as I wrote in my original review: She’s kind of shy, but she’s not a pushover; she doesn’t have a plethora of friends, but she isn’t exactly someone I would classify as a loner.) but I couldn’t help but like her. Now, with having the initial nervousness and shyness subsiding with her guys, it was great to see the bonds strengthen and the flirting grow. I think there’s going to be quite a bit of jealousy between at least two of the guys as the series progresses, so that’s going to be interesting to see how it plays out.
Astrid really grew on me in this book. She’s a bit more mature, knows what she wants as far as her relationships with the guys–she’s already decided if she can’t have them all romantically, then she refuses to choose–she won’t take crap from her mother or her dad, and she’s genuinely trying to better herself. All in all, her character went through a great growth period and I loved it.
Uggghhhh. These guys. I love each one of them so much. Just when I think I have a favorite, another guy jumps on the pages to try to change my mind, lol. This results in me constantly thinking, “oh, I love him so much,” no matter which guy is in the scene. Obviously, I adore all of them and when I can’t honestly tell you which one stands out as a favorite, you know the author has taken great care to give each one his own genuine personality and individual qualities that make it impossible to choose. I’ve come to recognize this as pretty standard in Blake‘s writing because I. Can. Never. Choose. and I’m definitely not complaining, lol.
One of my favorite parts of this book was learning more about the Jonah/Beck dynamic and finally getting to understand Beck’s feelings toward Jonah. Let’s just say Jonah gets himself in a little too deep in some trouble and he has to learn to set aside his pride and rely on his new friends to get him some help.
There were a couple shocking reveals that I didn’t see coming but made so much sense and added a huge amount of depth and emotion to this story, and there were also a couple new character additions–one of whom I unashamedly totally have a crush on. (This is me hoping and crossing my fingers that Angel gets added to Astrid’s men. *fans face*)
Anyway, if you’re a fan of the bully genre in a young/new adult setting and have an open mind to multiple love interests, you’ve gotta check this series out. I have a feeling it’s going to keep getting better and I can’t wait to see what Ms. Blessing has in store for us!
Happy reading!!
Original review: Alated Bibliophile
Ha. Just kidding 😉 But I did spend a couple nights staying up way too late to read this book. (And before I lose my book blogging cred, I can easily polish off a book in a day, but I don’t always have the ability to do so.)
Ugly Truths picks up where Pretty Lies left off. We get to find out if Astrid’s mom is still an abusive bitch and if her dad is holding up his end of the bargain that they made at the end of book 1. We also get a deeper look into Jonah’s life and exactly why Beck has hated him so much for so long.
Between college plans, family difficulties, bullying, unexpected fights, and a plethora of shocking revelations, sexy flirtations, and some drama, this book pretty much had it all. I will say I definitely enjoyed this book more than the first, but that’s not too surprising considering the first book was just setting the story for the series and didn’t go as in-depth as this one did.
I wasn’t sure what to make of Astrid in the first book. She was a mess of contradictions (as I wrote in my original review: She’s kind of shy, but she’s not a pushover; she doesn’t have a plethora of friends, but she isn’t exactly someone I would classify as a loner.) but I couldn’t help but like her. Now, with having the initial nervousness and shyness subsiding with her guys, it was great to see the bonds strengthen and the flirting grow. I think there’s going to be quite a bit of jealousy between at least two of the guys as the series progresses, so that’s going to be interesting to see how it plays out.
Astrid really grew on me in this book. She’s a bit more mature, knows what she wants as far as her relationships with the guys–she’s already decided if she can’t have them all romantically, then she refuses to choose–she won’t take crap from her mother or her dad, and she’s genuinely trying to better herself. All in all, her character went through a great growth period and I loved it.
Uggghhhh. These guys. I love each one of them so much. Just when I think I have a favorite, another guy jumps on the pages to try to change my mind, lol. This results in me constantly thinking, “oh, I love him so much,” no matter which guy is in the scene. Obviously, I adore all of them and when I can’t honestly tell you which one stands out as a favorite, you know the author has taken great care to give each one his own genuine personality and individual qualities that make it impossible to choose. I’ve come to recognize this as pretty standard in Blake‘s writing because I. Can. Never. Choose. and I’m definitely not complaining, lol.
One of my favorite parts of this book was learning more about the Jonah/Beck dynamic and finally getting to understand Beck’s feelings toward Jonah. Let’s just say Jonah gets himself in a little too deep in some trouble and he has to learn to set aside his pride and rely on his new friends to get him some help.
There were a couple shocking reveals that I didn’t see coming but made so much sense and added a huge amount of depth and emotion to this story, and there were also a couple new character additions–one of whom I unashamedly totally have a crush on. (This is me hoping and crossing my fingers that Angel gets added to Astrid’s men. *fans face*)
Anyway, if you’re a fan of the bully genre in a young/new adult setting and have an open mind to multiple love interests, you’ve gotta check this series out. I have a feeling it’s going to keep getting better and I can’t wait to see what Ms. Blessing has in store for us!
Happy reading!!
Original review: Alated Bibliophile
September 19, 2019
Astrid and her heroes are back and things are stickier than ever. Her mother is worse than before, Trey has his sights set again on Astrid, and there is danger surrounding one of the guys which brings the group scrambling to help. And with Astrid, she is determined that this will not break them apart. The heroes getting to know each other more, getting to know Astrid and building trust with each other truly showed how their group can band together against the darkness.
Astrid’s dad remembers their talk, but he is still negligent and blind to anything other than himself. I just cannot believe the hypocrisy he shows from his perceived family to the outside community versus his internal feelings and what he chooses to display. And her mother is still cruel and abusive. Although you see her cracks of emotion, it is not enough to understand her behavior. When they receive their comeuppance, I will only be too happy.
The group dynamics and the struggles built a foundation for the next book. The ghosts of the past are trying to pull everyone apart. They’re all unique people with different backgrounds but Astrid never lets it deter her. She learns more about all of them and doesn’t bat an eye. She sees the ugly but will only focus on the gold. She is determined to keep them together. She has that quality about her; fierce determination for her friends. She’s found her people and she’s going to be in their corner.
I really adored this book, even more than the first. Blake Blessing is still throwing twists on the end and I can’t wait to see what’s next. Blessing’s pacing is excellent. Astrid and her guys growing together pull me in and keep me hooked. I’m excited for #3, Bring it on!
Astrid’s dad remembers their talk, but he is still negligent and blind to anything other than himself. I just cannot believe the hypocrisy he shows from his perceived family to the outside community versus his internal feelings and what he chooses to display. And her mother is still cruel and abusive. Although you see her cracks of emotion, it is not enough to understand her behavior. When they receive their comeuppance, I will only be too happy.
The group dynamics and the struggles built a foundation for the next book. The ghosts of the past are trying to pull everyone apart. They’re all unique people with different backgrounds but Astrid never lets it deter her. She learns more about all of them and doesn’t bat an eye. She sees the ugly but will only focus on the gold. She is determined to keep them together. She has that quality about her; fierce determination for her friends. She’s found her people and she’s going to be in their corner.
I really adored this book, even more than the first. Blake Blessing is still throwing twists on the end and I can’t wait to see what’s next. Blessing’s pacing is excellent. Astrid and her guys growing together pull me in and keep me hooked. I’m excited for #3, Bring it on!
August 19, 2019
The second book in the Astrid Scott series focus more on the characters individual lives and them coming together as a family rather than the high school and Astrid's competition. A lot of Ugly Truths about the guys lives are revealed as well as some surprising truths. I like that the book and series focus on real life problems and that even though many people seem perfect on the outside you never really know what they are hiding and how their life really is behind closed doors.
In the first one I thought we got to know the least about Jonah, which is rectified in this one as we get to know more about his life and past. But I did feel like he wasn't a part of the "group" in most of the book. At the same time the guys do come together more as a family and learn to support each other during their tough periods in this one.
I was disappointed about the lack of development regarding their romantic relationship with Astrid. If you were expecting anything like that in this one, you will be sorely disappointed. I wasn't as thrilled with this book as I was with the first one. I think mainly it's because even though we got to know more about some of the guys, i was kinda expecting more from this book (especially regarding their relationship with Astrid). So i'm really hoping that the next one will live up to my expectations better.
In the first one I thought we got to know the least about Jonah, which is rectified in this one as we get to know more about his life and past. But I did feel like he wasn't a part of the "group" in most of the book. At the same time the guys do come together more as a family and learn to support each other during their tough periods in this one.
I was disappointed about the lack of development regarding their romantic relationship with Astrid. If you were expecting anything like that in this one, you will be sorely disappointed. I wasn't as thrilled with this book as I was with the first one. I think mainly it's because even though we got to know more about some of the guys, i was kinda expecting more from this book (especially regarding their relationship with Astrid). So i'm really hoping that the next one will live up to my expectations better.
December 4, 2021
After the events at the end of the last book, Astrid can finally do things like a normal teenager, but her life is truly anything but normal.
Thatcher wants to spend time with Astrid like the others do, he's been hesitant because of his role as her art tutor. He does manage not to put his foot in asking her out too badly.
Now Astrid has effectively eliminated the threat of the cheerleaders that they started because of Trey. However, Trey becomes even more of a problem when he corners Astrid. That puts Rhys' plans for his future in jeopardy. The thing is while it does matter so does Astrid's safety and he quickly moves to get Beck, Thatcher and Jonah involved in doing just that.
Jonah becomes somewhat distant due to his aunt's manipulative boyfriend. He feels he's between a rock and a hard place with nowhere to turn. Things take an unexpected turn when a couple of goons show up at Beck's show.
Of course, Astrid isn't about to let things go and all of them get involved. Including Beck and he isn't going to be happy about it.
That turn of events means they aren't letting Astrid be alone, since her parents are away they stay the night.
Now there's a rude awakening as we see Astrid's mother in her true form.
So many OMG moments in this book as the guys become closer and Astrid finds herself falling for all of them.
I am already reading the next book, I can't seem to stop.
Thatcher wants to spend time with Astrid like the others do, he's been hesitant because of his role as her art tutor. He does manage not to put his foot in asking her out too badly.
Now Astrid has effectively eliminated the threat of the cheerleaders that they started because of Trey. However, Trey becomes even more of a problem when he corners Astrid. That puts Rhys' plans for his future in jeopardy. The thing is while it does matter so does Astrid's safety and he quickly moves to get Beck, Thatcher and Jonah involved in doing just that.
Jonah becomes somewhat distant due to his aunt's manipulative boyfriend. He feels he's between a rock and a hard place with nowhere to turn. Things take an unexpected turn when a couple of goons show up at Beck's show.
Of course, Astrid isn't about to let things go and all of them get involved. Including Beck and he isn't going to be happy about it.
That turn of events means they aren't letting Astrid be alone, since her parents are away they stay the night.
Now there's a rude awakening as we see Astrid's mother in her true form.
So many OMG moments in this book as the guys become closer and Astrid finds herself falling for all of them.
I am already reading the next book, I can't seem to stop.
June 28, 2022
After the ending of Pretty Lies I was excited to continue with Astrid's story. A lot had happened and a lot still needed to be solved. I don't want to go into too much detail, because this is a sequel and I don't wait to spoil anything. I will be honest by saying that this was a slow start for me. After about 30% in I was really hoping for a bit more to start happening, because I was kind of bored.
Let me tell you that did change and I flew through the rest of the book. The author definitely knew how to keep me on the edge of my seat and just when I thought things would calm down again she gave us that ending! If you're looking to feel a roller-coaster of emotions I definitely suggest reading this series.
Also, I have to talk about the romance in this book. We're definitely heading to a reverse harem and I'm excited to see where it goes. I love that things are progressing slowly and really developing. Yeah, they all feel a connection, but there's not a lot of drama or insta love (at least not yet). I think out of everything I'm the most curious to see how this develops.
I also really enjoyed that we got more chapters from the guys' POV. This really helped me get into the story and understand them just a little better. I don't have a favorite yet, but I still have a few books to go!
Let me tell you that did change and I flew through the rest of the book. The author definitely knew how to keep me on the edge of my seat and just when I thought things would calm down again she gave us that ending! If you're looking to feel a roller-coaster of emotions I definitely suggest reading this series.
Also, I have to talk about the romance in this book. We're definitely heading to a reverse harem and I'm excited to see where it goes. I love that things are progressing slowly and really developing. Yeah, they all feel a connection, but there's not a lot of drama or insta love (at least not yet). I think out of everything I'm the most curious to see how this develops.
I also really enjoyed that we got more chapters from the guys' POV. This really helped me get into the story and understand them just a little better. I don't have a favorite yet, but I still have a few books to go!
September 10, 2020
Same problem with this book. The moment we climb up to a climax we are instantly transferred to resolution. Everything is to easy for the characters. Their problems evaporate like there was none to begin with. It is hard to follow.
Beck is my favourite this time around. Jonah's character is degrading in my eyes. In the first book I painted him with another colors. Not saying he is bad or boring, simply not a character I expected him to be.
Again, dialogues are badly constructed (but not always). I just wish the author would spend more time developing the voice of each character. To be completely truthful the POV ruin everything. It's like the narrative voice hadn't changed even though it had to. Jonah pov, Beck's and etc. I am reading the same 'Astrid' between the lines. The mood of the writing and it's characteristics do not change. There is nothing special in POV's. No quirks that some might show if you transfer to their head, no special way of thinking. All the guys think like Astrid and it feels stale. I hated POV's in this book. There was more of them than in the last one.
Beck is my favourite this time around. Jonah's character is degrading in my eyes. In the first book I painted him with another colors. Not saying he is bad or boring, simply not a character I expected him to be.
Again, dialogues are badly constructed (but not always). I just wish the author would spend more time developing the voice of each character. To be completely truthful the POV ruin everything. It's like the narrative voice hadn't changed even though it had to. Jonah pov, Beck's and etc. I am reading the same 'Astrid' between the lines. The mood of the writing and it's characteristics do not change. There is nothing special in POV's. No quirks that some might show if you transfer to their head, no special way of thinking. All the guys think like Astrid and it feels stale. I hated POV's in this book. There was more of them than in the last one.
August 14, 2019
Five come together to be what they never truly had, a family. There through hardship and merriment.
Trouble and strife surrounds them. They thought it was over but alas it comes in different shapes and forms.
Slowly but surely the boys take a step closer to her, but she likes them all in different ways.
Will her big heart be the downfall of the friendship of five?
This is a continuation of ugly lies so read that first folks!
So much drama and angst my head is still spinning now, I almost feel like I have whiplash!
The bond between the five hearts grows in this book, and they become like the musketeers. All for one, and one for all and I loved that.
I feel very much like Astrid. I couldnt choose only one of the four boys. But I was hoping for a little more romance in this book.
There's dashes, and hints, looks and conversations but nothing further. It's still a very PG innocent read in that way.
I'm thoroughly enjoying this series but at points there was too much going on, and for that reason alone I'm only giving this four stars.
Trouble and strife surrounds them. They thought it was over but alas it comes in different shapes and forms.
Slowly but surely the boys take a step closer to her, but she likes them all in different ways.
Will her big heart be the downfall of the friendship of five?
This is a continuation of ugly lies so read that first folks!
So much drama and angst my head is still spinning now, I almost feel like I have whiplash!
The bond between the five hearts grows in this book, and they become like the musketeers. All for one, and one for all and I loved that.
I feel very much like Astrid. I couldnt choose only one of the four boys. But I was hoping for a little more romance in this book.
There's dashes, and hints, looks and conversations but nothing further. It's still a very PG innocent read in that way.
I'm thoroughly enjoying this series but at points there was too much going on, and for that reason alone I'm only giving this four stars.
September 5, 2020
This is a total slow burn series but I can’t love it more. I am so invested in these characters it is crazy! Astrid is so strong yet insecure. Her personality is something I completely love and identify with. She doesn’t make friends easily but she has created this amazing friend family with the guys.
The guys and her are slowly growing and trying to figure out how to make their relationships work. As I said on the first book, I love that these guys haven’t been friends from the start and we are watching this amazing crew become tight knit. What we learned about Beck and Jonah made so much sense. It really made Beck’s feelings and just all around snarly-ness towards Jonah make sense. I really liked that we are now getting a full picture of all the guys lives and what they have lived through.
I can’t wait to find out what is going to happen with Thatcher, Jonah’s relationship with Trinity, and especially how Astrid navigates it all!! You won’t be disappointed in this series!!
The guys and her are slowly growing and trying to figure out how to make their relationships work. As I said on the first book, I love that these guys haven’t been friends from the start and we are watching this amazing crew become tight knit. What we learned about Beck and Jonah made so much sense. It really made Beck’s feelings and just all around snarly-ness towards Jonah make sense. I really liked that we are now getting a full picture of all the guys lives and what they have lived through.
I can’t wait to find out what is going to happen with Thatcher, Jonah’s relationship with Trinity, and especially how Astrid navigates it all!! You won’t be disappointed in this series!!
August 18, 2019
Blake Blessing is knocking this series out of the park! Astrid Scott is a girl who can bring even the oddest group of people together. Blake writes Astrid in a way that I think all readers can see a piece if their self in her. She has had a rough life, but still manages to hold on to seeing the good in the people around her that deserve it.
Astrid and her group of "heros" embark on even more self discovery in this book not only as a group but each as an individual. There are some great plot twists that I didn't see coming. Blake writes in such a way that their lives are all interconnected in some way. I love how sweet each of these boys/men are with her, and can't wait to see how all if their relationships grow. I will definitly be pre-ordering books 3.
Astrid and her group of "heros" embark on even more self discovery in this book not only as a group but each as an individual. There are some great plot twists that I didn't see coming. Blake writes in such a way that their lives are all interconnected in some way. I love how sweet each of these boys/men are with her, and can't wait to see how all if their relationships grow. I will definitly be pre-ordering books 3.
August 16, 2019
I loved this book so much even more than the first! Which I honestly didn’t think possible!! The relationship between Astrid and her guys continued to grow as they lean on each other and become each other’s families. I loved seeing the dynamic in the group and her Astrid is with all the guys, she feels for the guys in different ways! In this book they continue to face problems and trouble which they thought were over! I went through a multitude of emotions reading this book! There wasn’t much sexy time! in this book but to be honest there was so much in the book I was hooked!! Can’t wait for the to see what happens!!
August 17, 2019
Have you ever met characters that you just wanted to push together and say “okay... time for you to do the *elbow nudge into side* sexy stuff *awkward shrug*”
That’s how I am with all of the characters in this series. It’s becoming an issue (though not really because I really love the books). Astrid and her guys are dealing with some •Ugly Truths• people aren’t who they say they are, family is running rampant, art is suddenly not the thing on her mind all the time, & supply closets are being used (or are they? 😏).
Honest to blog, I could go on for hours about this series. Blake Blessing is a goddess amongst mortals.
That’s how I am with all of the characters in this series. It’s becoming an issue (though not really because I really love the books). Astrid and her guys are dealing with some •Ugly Truths• people aren’t who they say they are, family is running rampant, art is suddenly not the thing on her mind all the time, & supply closets are being used (or are they? 😏).
Honest to blog, I could go on for hours about this series. Blake Blessing is a goddess amongst mortals.
June 27, 2022
This is a total slow burn series, but I love it that much more. I am so invested in these character's it is crazy! The guys and her are slowly growing getting to know Astrid and building a trust with each other truly showing how their group can band together against the darkness, because I have a feeling they're going to need it. There were a lot of ugly truths about the guy's lives that are revealed, as well as some surprising truths, and talk about twists and turns that I did not even see coming and made me fall for this story harder. We're only 2 book's in and I can't get enough. I can't wait for the next in the series.
August 16, 2019
A beautiful disaster depicting the ugly truths in life. I love this series because as a reader we get to see those truths. Many people have normal lives, and then there is Astrid & her guys. They do not have easy lives and it shows. Each one of these characters have been through their share of ups and downs and have turned out to be great people. What's amazing is that they did it without a normal upbringing.
Astrid & her guys are NA and this is a reverse harem. It is a slow burn, but it is well worth it. Book 3 can't come fast enough.
Astrid & her guys are NA and this is a reverse harem. It is a slow burn, but it is well worth it. Book 3 can't come fast enough.
August 16, 2019
I loved the first book and let me say this one is amazing as well! There are some real gasp moments that you will not see coming, but truly make the story what it is! I couldn't put it down! You get to see some growth between Astrid and her guys as well as the friendships with the guys. It is a group that would probably never come together if it wasn't for their common interest in Astrid, but they are discovering their own friendships as well. I can't wait to see where this story continues to go. I am so excited for the next "snapshot" into their lives!
August 17, 2019
This book hit me just as hard as the first one. Following the lives of seemingly ordinary teens, you soon realize each has ugly truths hidden by pretty lies and they hold onto those pretty lies until it’s impossible to keep them in line any longer. The strength and bond the characters share, show through as each discovers their ugly truths making their bond even stronger as they face them together. This and the first book has inspired me to take pictures and see the truths hidden beneath. I now have a good camera! Don’t worry, I won’t go as far as Astrid, but I’ll get some good shots ;)
October 20, 2020
3.5 stars but worth rounding up rather than down this time.
Still think some of the language is unnecessary (I know this is very common in this genre nowadays). As far as reverse harem goes, I can get behind this story because it’s not centred around sex. There’s a lot of drama and plot twists while Astrid and the guys grow closer, gaining strength from one another and putting aside past grudges to give them all the best shot at having a good future. With the ending of book 2, I’m looking forward to having Trinity join the mix (hopefully) to balance things out a bit.
Still think some of the language is unnecessary (I know this is very common in this genre nowadays). As far as reverse harem goes, I can get behind this story because it’s not centred around sex. There’s a lot of drama and plot twists while Astrid and the guys grow closer, gaining strength from one another and putting aside past grudges to give them all the best shot at having a good future. With the ending of book 2, I’m looking forward to having Trinity join the mix (hopefully) to balance things out a bit.
June 21, 2022
I love Astrid and her guys!!
Ugly Truths is book #2 in the Astrid Scott series. Its a slow burn, reverse harem.
In Ugly Truths we get to see a lot of Jonah and what he is dealing with and going thru.
We pick up where we left off in book 1, and we get to see Astrid and the guys becoming closer, Astrids mother starts to lose it even more, and Astrid tries to help all her guys solve their problems.
I love this series so much and I cant believe I haven't read it in so long!!! This series is one of the first RHs I read, and I am so happy to be rereading it!!!
Ugly Truths is book #2 in the Astrid Scott series. Its a slow burn, reverse harem.
In Ugly Truths we get to see a lot of Jonah and what he is dealing with and going thru.
We pick up where we left off in book 1, and we get to see Astrid and the guys becoming closer, Astrids mother starts to lose it even more, and Astrid tries to help all her guys solve their problems.
I love this series so much and I cant believe I haven't read it in so long!!! This series is one of the first RHs I read, and I am so happy to be rereading it!!!
July 20, 2022
Addiction in it's best form here. I'm loving this series and wondering why I did not read this before. Maybe it was the YA thing but I'm really invested in knowing what happens with Astrid. The series so far is well written and I love the feels I get here. Astrid is finally getting some things like she wants it from her parents and of course there are struggles as in with every relationship but I love what Blake does here and I'm on the edge on my seat. Waiting for the next thing to happen. Recommend for sure.
September 5, 2019
Ugly Truths continued the story where it left off from book 1. I must admit that I'm anxiously waiting for this installment as I was left wondering where this will lead on especially for Jonah. That boy had me so wound up and trapped under his nerdy gaze.
This book felt like a bridge for the next one, as we see a buildup of its characters and their relationship. Astrid felt more matured in her thinking towards her budding relationships with the guys while we see the guys slowly make their feelings known to our FMC. It is always a delight to see how their minds work regarding this kind of set up, given that it is in contemporary setting and small town nonetheless, not to mention the society’s view of this. Also, we’ve learned Jonah and Beck’s back story, and it really pains me to see Jonah try to do things on his own. I felt he was more withdrawn to the others in this installment and with valid reasons on his part. There were twists and turns that I did not see coming and made me fall for this story harder.
I love seeing each guy’s having a one-on-one time with Astrid. It always makes me giddy and feel like a school girl with a crush. And OMG! This little, seemingly innocent, flirtations makes me squeal like the teenage girl that I am (not!). I am SWOONING! Gah!!! I can never get enough of it. I want more!
This book felt like a bridge for the next one, as we see a buildup of its characters and their relationship. Astrid felt more matured in her thinking towards her budding relationships with the guys while we see the guys slowly make their feelings known to our FMC. It is always a delight to see how their minds work regarding this kind of set up, given that it is in contemporary setting and small town nonetheless, not to mention the society’s view of this. Also, we’ve learned Jonah and Beck’s back story, and it really pains me to see Jonah try to do things on his own. I felt he was more withdrawn to the others in this installment and with valid reasons on his part. There were twists and turns that I did not see coming and made me fall for this story harder.
I love seeing each guy’s having a one-on-one time with Astrid. It always makes me giddy and feel like a school girl with a crush. And OMG! This little, seemingly innocent, flirtations makes me squeal like the teenage girl that I am (not!). I am SWOONING! Gah!!! I can never get enough of it. I want more!
August 29, 2020
So good!
I loved this 2nd book in the series, and read it in one session - it kept me up to 2am! The friendship between Astrid and the guys is developing, as are the friendships between the guys. This development is fairly slow which feels natural and not forced. I love the guy's POV chapters too. I am so looking forward to book 3, I pre-ordered it as soon as I finished book 2.
I loved this 2nd book in the series, and read it in one session - it kept me up to 2am! The friendship between Astrid and the guys is developing, as are the friendships between the guys. This development is fairly slow which feels natural and not forced. I love the guy's POV chapters too. I am so looking forward to book 3, I pre-ordered it as soon as I finished book 2.
August 4, 2019
Ugly Truths are exactly what this book is full of. Some shocking ones, Some secret ones and some i didnt see coming. They all make book 2 a compelling and absolutely fantastic book. I love this series so much. The characters are well written and i love the dynamic with Astrid, Jonah, Beck, Thatcher and Rhys. As well as their personal stories. A sheer joy to read
August 17, 2019
Fantastic Series
Wow, so much happened in this book and so many things got worked out. I love Astrid and her guys and this series has been amazing. I’m looking forward to book three. Fingers crossed the boys get further in their relationship and they all end up in happily ever after together.
Wow, so much happened in this book and so many things got worked out. I love Astrid and her guys and this series has been amazing. I’m looking forward to book three. Fingers crossed the boys get further in their relationship and they all end up in happily ever after together.
August 21, 2019
Holy ship!!!
I can’t even describe what happened in this book. Literally everything. Well almost everything. 3/4 guys are on board with our girl. Yay. So much drama. You don’t even know. I flove this book series and cannot wait for book 3. What’s going to happen? Can anyone handle any more drama!? Not sure my blood pressure can.
I can’t even describe what happened in this book. Literally everything. Well almost everything. 3/4 guys are on board with our girl. Yay. So much drama. You don’t even know. I flove this book series and cannot wait for book 3. What’s going to happen? Can anyone handle any more drama!? Not sure my blood pressure can.
August 25, 2019
Love it!!
I’m loving this series!
There’s so much going on in the book. Lots of revelations but still plenty of mystery and questions to be asked. I love how you get a sneak peak into each of the characters lives and thoughts though their POV and see how they are intertwined with Astrid and can see more of their personalities. Can’t wait for the next book!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I’m loving this series!
There’s so much going on in the book. Lots of revelations but still plenty of mystery and questions to be asked. I love how you get a sneak peak into each of the characters lives and thoughts though their POV and see how they are intertwined with Astrid and can see more of their personalities. Can’t wait for the next book!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
September 3, 2019
So many questions
Where do I start??? First off, that book was amazing. The writing. The descriptions. You feel it all like you are right there with them. I love Astrid and her awkwardness. I love the guys. But man oh man was I not prepared for everything this book entailed. Astrid's mom? Well you know. Trey? Psychotic. There are definitely some surprises in store.
Where do I start??? First off, that book was amazing. The writing. The descriptions. You feel it all like you are right there with them. I love Astrid and her awkwardness. I love the guys. But man oh man was I not prepared for everything this book entailed. Astrid's mom? Well you know. Trey? Psychotic. There are definitely some surprises in store.
June 23, 2022
This series is so amazing. Astrid is so strong and so willing to fight for those she loves. She is constantly fighting for both her own happiness and her guy's happiness. I really enjoyed how everyone didn't come together so instantaneously and they kind of had to work for it to work but Astrid really was the one to bring them all together. I can't wait for book three.
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