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Lies
Betty Dawsey knows that breaking things off with Thom Lange is for the best. He’s nice, but boring, and their relationship has lost its spark. But steady and predictable Thom, suddenly doesn’t seem so steady and predictable when their condo explodes and she’s kidnapped by a couple of crazies claiming that Thom isn’t who he says he is.
Thom is having a hellish week. Not only is he hunting a double agent, but his fiancé dumped him, and thanks to his undercover life, she’s been kidnapped.
Turns out Thom is Operative Thom and he’s got more than a few secrets to share with Betty if he’s going to keep her alive. With both their lives on the line, their lackluster connection is suddenly replaced by an intense one. But in his line of work, feelings aren’t wanted or desired. Because feelings can be a lethal distraction.
Thom is having a hellish week. Not only is he hunting a double agent, but his fiancé dumped him, and thanks to his undercover life, she’s been kidnapped.
Turns out Thom is Operative Thom and he’s got more than a few secrets to share with Betty if he’s going to keep her alive. With both their lives on the line, their lackluster connection is suddenly replaced by an intense one. But in his line of work, feelings aren’t wanted or desired. Because feelings can be a lethal distraction.
240 pages, Paperback
First published July 21, 2019
814 people are currently reading
5014 people want to read
About the author
Kylie Scott
60 books17k followersKylie is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today best-selling, Audie Award winning Romance author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,094 reviews
July 2, 2019
4 stars
The entire time I was reading Lies, all I could think of was that this would make a killer movie. It's been a while since I've read a book and could see it being the perfect film. This would be an action film, heavy on the romance and humor. I really enjoyed Betty and Thom's story and it entertained me all the way through.
Betty is getting ready to leave her fiance, Thom. It's for the best. The spark is missing and they're just not on the same page. She sees Thom as nice, predictable, and as average as can be. Oh is Betty in for a surprise... Thom is an operative and his cover has been blown. Betty now sees him for what he really is. A liar.
There are more important things then feelings right now, as there is a double agent in Thom's group and they're being picked off one by one. Finding the culprit and protecting Betty is his number one priority. Betty may think Thom doesn't care, but it couldn't be farther from the truth. Thom was only giving Betty what he thought she wanted. A quiet, simple, and average life.
I loved watching Betty get to know the real Thom because he was fantastic. I loved the two of them together and I especially loved that she made him work for it. This isn't the most realistic romance, but it was a heck of a good time. I couldn't take my eyes off the pages, I devoured every word.
If you're in the mood for an action packed romance, this is the book for you. Kylie Scott writes in a completely captivating way and this book is steamy, funny, and highly entertaining.
The entire time I was reading Lies, all I could think of was that this would make a killer movie. It's been a while since I've read a book and could see it being the perfect film. This would be an action film, heavy on the romance and humor. I really enjoyed Betty and Thom's story and it entertained me all the way through.
Betty is getting ready to leave her fiance, Thom. It's for the best. The spark is missing and they're just not on the same page. She sees Thom as nice, predictable, and as average as can be. Oh is Betty in for a surprise... Thom is an operative and his cover has been blown. Betty now sees him for what he really is. A liar.
“Our whole relationship was like a mission to you. You assessed my life, inserted yourself into it, and then only worked within the parameters you were comfortable with.”
There are more important things then feelings right now, as there is a double agent in Thom's group and they're being picked off one by one. Finding the culprit and protecting Betty is his number one priority. Betty may think Thom doesn't care, but it couldn't be farther from the truth. Thom was only giving Betty what he thought she wanted. A quiet, simple, and average life.
I loved watching Betty get to know the real Thom because he was fantastic. I loved the two of them together and I especially loved that she made him work for it. This isn't the most realistic romance, but it was a heck of a good time. I couldn't take my eyes off the pages, I devoured every word.
If you're in the mood for an action packed romance, this is the book for you. Kylie Scott writes in a completely captivating way and this book is steamy, funny, and highly entertaining.
“Is there anything you didn’t lie to me about?” The mirth disappears from his face. “I wasn’t lying when I said I love you.”
July 18, 2019
Truth = I am not a big romance suspense reader, but Kylie Scott, you have that talent to suck me in!!
Amazingly written, I was pushing through this book just to find out what was coming next!!! These characters are well written. Betty and Thom, oh you guys gotta read these two. From the outs to the ins, the ups and downs, and oh what a fun ride at times, definitely pick this one up. This read is not one I'll forget anytime soon. I hope to see this as a blockbuster on the screens!!
Amazingly written, I was pushing through this book just to find out what was coming next!!! These characters are well written. Betty and Thom, oh you guys gotta read these two. From the outs to the ins, the ups and downs, and oh what a fun ride at times, definitely pick this one up. This read is not one I'll forget anytime soon. I hope to see this as a blockbuster on the screens!!
July 18, 2019
❤️4 STARS ❤️
“Our whole relationship was like a mission to you. You assessed my life, inserted yourself into it, and then only worked within the parameters you were comfortable with.”
It was a quick and refreshing read! I liked the characters and the story was interesting , I couldn't put it down.It has action,drama ,humor and a great romance.It's different from her other books but still very good!
Betty is hilarious and Thom was interesting.Their romance was slow ,intense and steamy.If you are looking for a fun and lighthearted read this is perfect!
“Our whole relationship was like a mission to you. You assessed my life, inserted yourself into it, and then only worked within the parameters you were comfortable with.”
It was a quick and refreshing read! I liked the characters and the story was interesting , I couldn't put it down.It has action,drama ,humor and a great romance.It's different from her other books but still very good!
Betty is hilarious and Thom was interesting.Their romance was slow ,intense and steamy.If you are looking for a fun and lighthearted read this is perfect!
July 24, 2019
1 STAR⭐️ DNF, Chapt 6 @47%
I can fully admit that I’m the kind of romance reader that will go down for a thirsty cover. Yes, I’m aware the man on the cover isn’t showing any skin but he’s giving me Keanu Reeves/John Wick vibes and this shit is enough to entice me. That’s right, I said that.
What made me really fall for it though, is the blurb. I loved the premise of "Lies". It sounded fun, a mix of romantic suspense/adventure—which I love— and comedy. Having very much enjoyed the author’s previous books, I was pretty sure I’ll end up with a feel good book. I was also super curious about Kylie Scott venturing out and dipping into RS. Yes, I had some expectations.
But that’s enough about why I decided to read the book.
The story literally starts with a boom: Heroine no sooner decides to dump her fiancé because of reasons (among other things: he’s boring/not remarkable/always away/not invested enough) that she learns he’s actually a badass secret agent. To protect her they’ll have to go through forced proximity and hero will have to win back her trust. Like, was it even real or all part of his cover?
Ok so, don’t get me wrong.
I know this story is told through the heroine’s POV. I assume Betty, the heroine, has most likely no firsthand knowledge about the spy or military world and it wasn’t lost on me how her lack of familiarity with covert operations made her also kinda endearingly clueless. (I’m saying "kinda" because her ingenue act was irritating AF to me) Like how she kept disrupting the hero’s plans to put distance between them and their enemies by questioning his MO for shit and giggles, sure it’s kinda cute the first time, but repetition made it turn ridiculous. Just like her sudden interest for guns and pointy objects... Anti-gun heroine turns over a new leaf under false bravado. For all her many reminders that she wasn’t stupid, Betty acted rather mindlessly. I assume the author probably had in mind comedic relief? I wasn't receptive to it.
Nor was I to the heroine's moaning about her big girls struggles. I’m so over the curvy/poor me characterization. I like reading about curvy heroines but I guess I prefer mine not falling in the "big girls are treated poorly" category. Give me some heroines that won't use their curves as a way to bring sympathy. That pity party sailed a while back for me.
Oh please!
The author’s ineptitude to make it look like the guys were actually part of a secret agency was what ruined any potential interest I had. Remember, I came in expecting some suspense, adventure and probably rom-com. What I got instead was a mix of all spies parodies in mind. I do enjoy Austin Powers, mind you, only… to an extent.
Throwing in some random badass military lingo here and there and give the secret agents animal codenames for good measure doesn’t make the military aspect convincing at all. Sorry.
Not for one second this whole set-up made me believe these guys were highly trained operative agents. At most, they were regular guys playing with cool guns and pretty cars. A kid with a Nerf Gun set reenacting Rambo would be just as convincing though. Even Totally Spies dare to look more credible.
The dialogues didn’t help either, the overused "It’s classified, can’t talk about it" as a smoke-screen or the use of their codenames throughout the pages did not not make any of this conceivable in the least. I understand agents using theirs codenames on the field, but within a compound you share with your teammates? Odd. To me it read like a blend of all secret agents movies out there, with all the clichés, overkill but with no coherence. Even the description of the one woman on the team made me laugh/roll my eyes.
I’ve read my fair share of suspense and thrillers, but also many romantic suspense books, and this was without a doubt the most unrealistic (don’t come at me telling me this is a fiction book—I KNOW) display of a military op I’ve ever read. Did I expect a Clancy/Ludlum level of intel ops knowledge? Well, no, but some realism would have been nice to ground me to the story.
One thing I’ll conceide is the hero’s dedication to blend in and act normal, so much so, he admitted giving the heroine mediocre sex so as to not arise suspicion. That’s some covert skillzzzz! And while we’re on the hero’s subject, my John Wick expectations of a graceful, deadly killer fantasies went up in smoke rather quickly. Thom was not fantasy material in the least. I wanted John Wick, all I got was Johnny English. Talk about lowering your expectations.
What I expected:
What I got:
So this is me. I’m seeing so many readers loving this, you could too, I just really couldn’t suspend my disbeliefs enough to stay for the romance. Up until 50% I’ll dare to say there wasn’t much romance to be seen. Some mild lust at most. Both heroes are rather awkwardly throwing lusty looks at each other.
The premise was interesting, the execution not so much. Let’s say there was no consistency to what I read. Anyone who read the book entirely, please can you confirm something to me about the 5 carats ring? Thank you.
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
I can fully admit that I’m the kind of romance reader that will go down for a thirsty cover. Yes, I’m aware the man on the cover isn’t showing any skin but he’s giving me Keanu Reeves/John Wick vibes and this shit is enough to entice me. That’s right, I said that.
What made me really fall for it though, is the blurb. I loved the premise of "Lies". It sounded fun, a mix of romantic suspense/adventure—which I love— and comedy. Having very much enjoyed the author’s previous books, I was pretty sure I’ll end up with a feel good book. I was also super curious about Kylie Scott venturing out and dipping into RS. Yes, I had some expectations.
But that’s enough about why I decided to read the book.
"Roger that."
The story literally starts with a boom: Heroine no sooner decides to dump her fiancé because of reasons (among other things: he’s boring/not remarkable/always away/not invested enough) that she learns he’s actually a badass secret agent. To protect her they’ll have to go through forced proximity and hero will have to win back her trust. Like, was it even real or all part of his cover?
"We’re recruited from all over the place. It’s not something we can talk about."
Ok so, don’t get me wrong.
I know this story is told through the heroine’s POV. I assume Betty, the heroine, has most likely no firsthand knowledge about the spy or military world and it wasn’t lost on me how her lack of familiarity with covert operations made her also kinda endearingly clueless. (I’m saying "kinda" because her ingenue act was irritating AF to me) Like how she kept disrupting the hero’s plans to put distance between them and their enemies by questioning his MO for shit and giggles, sure it’s kinda cute the first time, but repetition made it turn ridiculous. Just like her sudden interest for guns and pointy objects... Anti-gun heroine turns over a new leaf under false bravado. For all her many reminders that she wasn’t stupid, Betty acted rather mindlessly. I assume the author probably had in mind comedic relief? I wasn't receptive to it.
Nor was I to the heroine's moaning about her big girls struggles. I’m so over the curvy/poor me characterization. I like reading about curvy heroines but I guess I prefer mine not falling in the "big girls are treated poorly" category. Give me some heroines that won't use their curves as a way to bring sympathy. That pity party sailed a while back for me.
"That happens with big girls. People tend to think we’ll be happy with the scraps."
Oh please!
The author’s ineptitude to make it look like the guys were actually part of a secret agency was what ruined any potential interest I had. Remember, I came in expecting some suspense, adventure and probably rom-com. What I got instead was a mix of all spies parodies in mind. I do enjoy Austin Powers, mind you, only… to an extent.
Throwing in some random badass military lingo here and there and give the secret agents animal codenames for good measure doesn’t make the military aspect convincing at all. Sorry.
Not for one second this whole set-up made me believe these guys were highly trained operative agents. At most, they were regular guys playing with cool guns and pretty cars. A kid with a Nerf Gun set reenacting Rambo would be just as convincing though. Even Totally Spies dare to look more credible.
"I watch thrillers and spy movies. I know stuff."
The dialogues didn’t help either, the overused "It’s classified, can’t talk about it" as a smoke-screen or the use of their codenames throughout the pages did not not make any of this conceivable in the least. I understand agents using theirs codenames on the field, but within a compound you share with your teammates? Odd. To me it read like a blend of all secret agents movies out there, with all the clichés, overkill but with no coherence. Even the description of the one woman on the team made me laugh/roll my eyes.
"She’s wearing a little green dress with a large knife strapped to her thigh."
I’ve read my fair share of suspense and thrillers, but also many romantic suspense books, and this was without a doubt the most unrealistic (don’t come at me telling me this is a fiction book—I KNOW) display of a military op I’ve ever read. Did I expect a Clancy/Ludlum level of intel ops knowledge? Well, no, but some realism would have been nice to ground me to the story.
One thing I’ll conceide is the hero’s dedication to blend in and act normal, so much so, he admitted giving the heroine mediocre sex so as to not arise suspicion. That’s some covert skillzzzz! And while we’re on the hero’s subject, my John Wick expectations of a graceful, deadly killer fantasies went up in smoke rather quickly. Thom was not fantasy material in the least. I wanted John Wick, all I got was Johnny English. Talk about lowering your expectations.
What I expected:
What I got:
So this is me. I’m seeing so many readers loving this, you could too, I just really couldn’t suspend my disbeliefs enough to stay for the romance. Up until 50% I’ll dare to say there wasn’t much romance to be seen. Some mild lust at most. Both heroes are rather awkwardly throwing lusty looks at each other.
The premise was interesting, the execution not so much. Let’s say there was no consistency to what I read. Anyone who read the book entirely, please can you confirm something to me about the 5 carats ring? Thank you.
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
July 21, 2019
I like so many others already, really had a "movie" vibe when reading this book. The fact that the cover model seems to be Keanu Reeve's twin, only amplified that feeling. Of course, I couldn't get the handsome man out of my head once I laid eyes on this cover...which is not a bad thing.., at all !!!
This book also reminded me a bit of the movie "True" Lies", which again...was not a bad thing, since I loved it.
Betty wants to end her relationship with Thom. He is a good guy but they don't seem to be having any chemistry and he is quite boring in her eyes. Boy, is she in for a surprise !!
I absolutely love some suspense and mystery in my romance and this book delivered on both accounts. I also really enjoyed Betty finding out everything there was to Thom.
It is not every day that you find out your boring fiancee is, in fact, a secret operative. Of course, this means that he is also a big fat liar !!!
Question is...will she forgive him for lying and embrace this " not so boring" new version of him. Maybe she will...but they will need to make it out alive first :P
I had lots of fun reading this one. The action, the mystery and of course the romance were delicious.
Highly recommended for those who love some suspense in their romance novels ;)
An ARC was provided to
in exchange for an honest review
July 21, 2019
4.5 Stars!
(ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR)
Betty Dawsey is a florist in California who has been with her fiance Thom Lange for a little over a year when she decides things just aren’t going to work out. They’ve lost their spark, and everything between them has become predictable and routine. She was tired of feeling like an after thought. He was always busy or away for work, and she was lonely. She wants someone who puts her first and makes her a priority. She needs to end things before they get too complicated, and plans on breaking up with him, but then her whole world is suddenly turned upside down when their condo explodes, and she’s kidnapped.
Turns out she doesn’t really know the man she was going to marry as well as she thought she did. Boring Thom who was just your average guy is actually an operative with a secret life. Now she wonders if she ever really knew him at all. This stranger is nothing like her Thom. He’s confident, possessive, overprotective, and intense. She’s angry and feels betrayed, and doesn’t know what’s real anymore. He’s messing with her emotions, and suddenly they have off the charts chemistry as they encounter one disaster after another. She’s been dragged into his drama, and now has to rely on him as they are trying to stay alive while figuring out who wants them dead. While on the run together will they be able to explore their new connection and sort out their complicated relationship, or is it truly over between them?
-The man stares at me with the heat of a thousand suns and I am dead. My emotional walls, sense of self-preservation, and various other fortifications erected over the past twenty-six years are nothing but rubble.
-"I like your smile. Hell, I like every damn inch of you. And I like who I am when I'm around you. The way I don't have to be on edge all the time. Especially now that I don't need to pretend to be someone else. Now that you know all my secrets."
-The look in his eyes as he gazes down at me is everything I could have asked for. Everything I'd given up hoping I'd ever get from this man. And now here he is, giving it to me in spades.
Lies by Kylie Scott is a sexy standalone full of mystery, action, danger, secrets, lies, excitement, and humor. I really enjoyed this story as this couple embraces their new reality and truly get to know one another for the first time. I adored Betty and how she shows what she’s made of when it counts. She was absolutely hilarious. This book had plenty of heart, heat, laughs and emotion. Just loved it!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2M44k12
(ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR)
Betty Dawsey is a florist in California who has been with her fiance Thom Lange for a little over a year when she decides things just aren’t going to work out. They’ve lost their spark, and everything between them has become predictable and routine. She was tired of feeling like an after thought. He was always busy or away for work, and she was lonely. She wants someone who puts her first and makes her a priority. She needs to end things before they get too complicated, and plans on breaking up with him, but then her whole world is suddenly turned upside down when their condo explodes, and she’s kidnapped.
Turns out she doesn’t really know the man she was going to marry as well as she thought she did. Boring Thom who was just your average guy is actually an operative with a secret life. Now she wonders if she ever really knew him at all. This stranger is nothing like her Thom. He’s confident, possessive, overprotective, and intense. She’s angry and feels betrayed, and doesn’t know what’s real anymore. He’s messing with her emotions, and suddenly they have off the charts chemistry as they encounter one disaster after another. She’s been dragged into his drama, and now has to rely on him as they are trying to stay alive while figuring out who wants them dead. While on the run together will they be able to explore their new connection and sort out their complicated relationship, or is it truly over between them?
-The man stares at me with the heat of a thousand suns and I am dead. My emotional walls, sense of self-preservation, and various other fortifications erected over the past twenty-six years are nothing but rubble.
-"I like your smile. Hell, I like every damn inch of you. And I like who I am when I'm around you. The way I don't have to be on edge all the time. Especially now that I don't need to pretend to be someone else. Now that you know all my secrets."
-The look in his eyes as he gazes down at me is everything I could have asked for. Everything I'd given up hoping I'd ever get from this man. And now here he is, giving it to me in spades.
Lies by Kylie Scott is a sexy standalone full of mystery, action, danger, secrets, lies, excitement, and humor. I really enjoyed this story as this couple embraces their new reality and truly get to know one another for the first time. I adored Betty and how she shows what she’s made of when it counts. She was absolutely hilarious. This book had plenty of heart, heat, laughs and emotion. Just loved it!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2M44k12
November 17, 2019
I really enjoyed the audio for Lies. The narrator does an awesome job and I was enthralled from start to finish. It was an excellent re-read/listen.
**********
Sure, there was a wee bit of betrayal, but…
I’ve decided that I’d be happy if hubby came home and told me that he’s an undercover agent. Yes, there would be a bit of hurt and crankiness because he’d kept a secret from me. Yes, I might also be very interested to know what kind of undercover was involved. Yes, I might have to hurt him with a blunt instrument if he’d been intimate with someone else while undercover. BUT…if he turned around to me after 22 years of marriage and said…
Well, that may put a different light on things. Sure, I’d still be a bit peeved and make him pay with a lot of grovelling, but…PARTY!! I’d retire, move to the coast, get the kids set up with little nest eggs, buy lots of clothes and create the most beautiful study/library with one of those sliding ladder thingamajiggies… I could go on about how I'd spend his imagined hard-earned millions.
**********
Sure, there was a wee bit of betrayal, but…
I’ve decided that I’d be happy if hubby came home and told me that he’s an undercover agent. Yes, there would be a bit of hurt and crankiness because he’d kept a secret from me. Yes, I might also be very interested to know what kind of undercover was involved. Yes, I might have to hurt him with a blunt instrument if he’d been intimate with someone else while undercover. BUT…if he turned around to me after 22 years of marriage and said…
"My darling wife, I’m sorry for lying to you but undercover work pays well and I have millions of dollars squirrelled away."
Well, that may put a different light on things. Sure, I’d still be a bit peeved and make him pay with a lot of grovelling, but…PARTY!! I’d retire, move to the coast, get the kids set up with little nest eggs, buy lots of clothes and create the most beautiful study/library with one of those sliding ladder thingamajiggies… I could go on about how I'd spend his imagined hard-earned millions.
March 30, 2025
3 Duplicitous Stars ⭐️
What should have been a relatively painless breakup with her soon to be ex Thom, becomes a series of explosions, kidnappings and a life on the run with a man she barely recognizes.
Betty Dawsey is pissed to learn that her comfortable, yet boring fiancé Thom is in fact an undercover operative. Everything she thought she knew went up in smoke with the condo she previously lived in…
Forced to remain together for her own safety, Betty and Thom will need to sort through the lies and truths which was their fake relationship. Learning to trust again and discovering the real man that is Thom Lange, will be the one thing to keep them both alive.
”Maybe he’s not too far removed from the basically kind and ethically moral person I thought he was. Only, there’re still all the lies and bad sex to be considered. His willingness to waste my life on a fake relationship to keep his cover intact. So yeah, not very deep down, I kind of still hate his guts and want to shoot him."
Now at this point I was really enjoying this story. It was funny, it was original, and both characters were kickass. And then it turned into an episode of ‘24’. It became so action packed that I thought I had started reading a different story. Somehow Betty went from florist to assassin and my mind started to wander, and I was no longer enthralled by this story. Le sigh……
What should have been a relatively painless breakup with her soon to be ex Thom, becomes a series of explosions, kidnappings and a life on the run with a man she barely recognizes.
Betty Dawsey is pissed to learn that her comfortable, yet boring fiancé Thom is in fact an undercover operative. Everything she thought she knew went up in smoke with the condo she previously lived in…
Forced to remain together for her own safety, Betty and Thom will need to sort through the lies and truths which was their fake relationship. Learning to trust again and discovering the real man that is Thom Lange, will be the one thing to keep them both alive.
”Maybe he’s not too far removed from the basically kind and ethically moral person I thought he was. Only, there’re still all the lies and bad sex to be considered. His willingness to waste my life on a fake relationship to keep his cover intact. So yeah, not very deep down, I kind of still hate his guts and want to shoot him."
Now at this point I was really enjoying this story. It was funny, it was original, and both characters were kickass. And then it turned into an episode of ‘24’. It became so action packed that I thought I had started reading a different story. Somehow Betty went from florist to assassin and my mind started to wander, and I was no longer enthralled by this story. Le sigh……
July 21, 2019
I love Kylie Scott. She is one of my favorite authors. But this book was truly disappointing.
First of all, let me say that I get that with millions of books and movies out there, there is bound to be an overlap of themes. I get that. Just because an idea has been used in countless other instances, does not mean a book cannot be original and good. BUT, this time around I truly felt like Kylie Scott just watched Kingsmen and some RomCom and figured, she'd combine the two. Sadly, it does not work.
Thom is supposed to be this badass spy, who's super good at everything spy-related but Scott does not manage to convey that. Rather, to me, Thom was nothing but a moody and broody Joe with a few fancy moves with his gun and not much else. Whatever his motivations are, they made no sense to me. I also had to say that
Betty for me was a bad mixture of former Kylie Scott characters and a Mary Sue and it was all horribly inconsistent and did not work. On the one hand, she's the typical sarcastic, witty goof Scott writes so well. But then she's also in a constant pity party because she's a big girl and the whole world is mean to them. This really bugged me. Scott's constant need to point out her heroine's size is beginning to be nothing more than annoying. It's always the curvy girl with a lack of confidence and self-esteem that is being mistreated by other mean girls. I get it, Scott wants to make a statement about curvy women, that's great! But don't always portray them as the victims and with no self-esteem who need a man to tell them how beautiful they are. There is nothing wrong with writing about shapes of all sizes, but don't fixate on them and don't constantly push one demeaning stereotype on each of those body-shapes. Because in Scott's world, all the curvy girls are poor, innocent victims and all the tall, thin girls are mean girls. That's the variety she portrays in it is driving me crazy.
But back to Betty and Thom. Together they have no chemistry. They barely work as individual characters but together they are even worse. I mean,
First of all, let me say that I get that with millions of books and movies out there, there is bound to be an overlap of themes. I get that. Just because an idea has been used in countless other instances, does not mean a book cannot be original and good. BUT, this time around I truly felt like Kylie Scott just watched Kingsmen and some RomCom and figured, she'd combine the two. Sadly, it does not work.
Thom is supposed to be this badass spy, who's super good at everything spy-related but Scott does not manage to convey that. Rather, to me, Thom was nothing but a moody and broody Joe with a few fancy moves with his gun and not much else. Whatever his motivations are, they made no sense to me. I also had to say that
Betty for me was a bad mixture of former Kylie Scott characters and a Mary Sue and it was all horribly inconsistent and did not work. On the one hand, she's the typical sarcastic, witty goof Scott writes so well. But then she's also in a constant pity party because she's a big girl and the whole world is mean to them. This really bugged me. Scott's constant need to point out her heroine's size is beginning to be nothing more than annoying. It's always the curvy girl with a lack of confidence and self-esteem that is being mistreated by other mean girls. I get it, Scott wants to make a statement about curvy women, that's great! But don't always portray them as the victims and with no self-esteem who need a man to tell them how beautiful they are. There is nothing wrong with writing about shapes of all sizes, but don't fixate on them and don't constantly push one demeaning stereotype on each of those body-shapes. Because in Scott's world, all the curvy girls are poor, innocent victims and all the tall, thin girls are mean girls. That's the variety she portrays in it is driving me crazy.
But back to Betty and Thom. Together they have no chemistry. They barely work as individual characters but together they are even worse. I mean,
January 16, 2020
Lies and + lies, is what this reading was, but in a good way since I enjoyed it a lot hehe
The moment I started reading this story, I couldn’t put it down and ended up devouring it in one sitting because everything from the characters to the storyline had me hook.
Lies was totally unexpected and I instantly found myself falling in love with Betty and Thom. These two certainly had me on the edge.
The story is one action packed ride full of bullets, , and secrets and I loved it!
The moment I started reading this story, I couldn’t put it down and ended up devouring it in one sitting because everything from the characters to the storyline had me hook.
Lies was totally unexpected and I instantly found myself falling in love with Betty and Thom. These two certainly had me on the edge.
The story is one action packed ride full of bullets, , and secrets and I loved it!
November 22, 2020
★4.5★
Lies is an action-packed sexy read full of suspense and non-stop fun. Betty Dawsey has had enough of her humdrum life and her humdrum relationship with her man Thom Lange. Before Betty can make a clean break, she is thrust into a world of espionage and danger. Unbeknownst to her, Thom is not the man that she thought he was. As Thom reveals the truth about his job, the truth about their relationship is revealed. Is Betty willing to accept the truth or is she now more ready than ever to walk away!
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“You do more than just give me a home. You let me feel things like a normal person. You make me human.”
Lies is an action-packed sexy read full of suspense and non-stop fun. Betty Dawsey has had enough of her humdrum life and her humdrum relationship with her man Thom Lange. Before Betty can make a clean break, she is thrust into a world of espionage and danger. Unbeknownst to her, Thom is not the man that she thought he was. As Thom reveals the truth about his job, the truth about their relationship is revealed. Is Betty willing to accept the truth or is she now more ready than ever to walk away!
“My heart beats double time. The look in his eyes as he gazes down at me is everything I could have asked for. Everything I’d given up hoping I’d ever get from this man. And now here he is, giving it to me in spades.”Told in multiple POV, Lies is another Kylie Scott winning read. I love how she writes her characters with so much personality. The dynamics between Betty and Thom kept me on the edge of my seat the entire read. Overall, this book would appeal to anyone who enjoys an action-packed read with suspense, passion, and tons of fun!
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!My review:
Blog- https://bit.ly/3270hZV
GR- https://bit.ly/3iDTHzG
Available now on Amazon:
https://amzn.to/2VXVnu9
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
July 22, 2019
Title: Lies
Author: Kylie Scott
Normally I won't use the words 'action packed' to describe a contemporary romance written by Kylie Scott but she proved me wrong.
Kylie Scott always manages to write amazing books and this was honestly no different. Lies is one hell of a book. It's suspenseful ,edgy and exciting.
Gosh I loved Betty and Thom. Once Betty finds out Thom's true identity and his real personality..the chemistry is full on guys! 🔥
“You’re handling this well.”
I laugh. “Oh, really?” Because inside my head, I’m basically alternating between this freaked-out, endless, high-pitched screaming noise and an all-consuming need to kill you for all the fucking lies.”
I loved that Betty wasn't a damsel in distress. Granted that she was freaking out on the inside but this strong independent woman is strong AF. Loved that she wasn't a pushover and I absolutely love that she made Thom work really hard to gain back her trust.
“Holy shit. Is there anything you didn’t lie to me about?”
The mirth disappears from his face. “I wasn’t’ lying when I said I love you.”
Once we get to know Thom's true identity, I fell in love with him. He's the quiet, strong and efficient type of guy. *SWOON*
Thom and Betty's romance is ridiculously sizzling.
Lies by Kylie Scott is a steamy fast paced standalone that is jammed packed with mystery and suspense, action and adventure, and let's not forget the characters because I loved the characters.
Another smashingly good book by Kylie Scott.
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July 2, 2021
I have to say I enjoy Lies. I think Miss Scott drew an inspiration from Mr and Mrs Smith for the story and John Wick for the cover. Like her other books, the signature banter of Miss Scott is there. Elizabeth is a fun, fearless heroine. And Tom is just.... sexy.
The plot of secret agent is also fun and easy to follow. The sexy scenes are hot sexy as usual.
Overall this is an enjoyable ready.
4 stars
The plot of secret agent is also fun and easy to follow. The sexy scenes are hot sexy as usual.
Overall this is an enjoyable ready.
4 stars
Read
July 28, 2019*sigh*
dnf @ 28% - unfortunately, this one wasn't for me.... I found the narrative and characters to lack dimension and it was hard to actually root for Thom and Betty. The premise of this story had me sold initially because doesn't it just sounds like a hollywood blockbuster??? While I can imagine it on screen, the execution in this book was just... meh.
dnf @ 28% - unfortunately, this one wasn't for me.... I found the narrative and characters to lack dimension and it was hard to actually root for Thom and Betty. The premise of this story had me sold initially because doesn't it just sounds like a hollywood blockbuster??? While I can imagine it on screen, the execution in this book was just... meh.
July 22, 2019
3 indifferent shrug stars.
The entire conflict the couple faced was just a tad too ridiculous. The hero purposely acts as a shitty boyfriend because he thinks thats what the h wants? Nobody is that dense.
And that ending? What a load of crap. Instead of resolving the couples issues, the author just adds more 'action' by having the hero fake his own death because he cares for the heroine too much.
Give 👏me 👏a 👏freaking 👏break.
The entire conflict the couple faced was just a tad too ridiculous. The hero purposely acts as a shitty boyfriend because he thinks thats what the h wants? Nobody is that dense.
And that ending? What a load of crap. Instead of resolving the couples issues, the author just adds more 'action' by having the hero fake his own death because he cares for the heroine too much.
Give 👏me 👏a 👏freaking 👏break.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 7, 2019
4 Stars
It’s not the most original plot- True Lies movie 1994- however it’s a cute read.
It’s not the most original plot- True Lies movie 1994- however it’s a cute read.
July 21, 2019
This time we get something a little different from Kylie Scott.
We have 26 year old florist Betty. Who is about to leave her fiancé Thom (34). He's just so boring and never home and ugh. It's just not what she expected her life as an almost married woman to be like. But suddenly she's being kidnapped and just like that her boring Thom is not as boring anymore. He never was. He just pretended to be the boring average guy. In real life he's a secret agent. An operative - or whatever you want to call him.
He's suddenly all sorts of hot and interesting! And he's also responsible for the fact that they're running for their lives! LOL!
This time Kylie doesn't give us a #RockStarRomance or a sweet little cutie romance.
It's a James Bondy kind of thing! But we still have lots of funny and adorable and sexy moments. Don't expect something completely suspensy and actiony and dangerous.
Yes, we are in dangerous and exciting situations most of the book, but all through the action and the running and waiting and looking for the bad guys and whatnot, we're trying to figure out if Betty can forgive Thom for lying - because our Thom doesn't want to give up on the first real relationship he has ever had. He loves being Betty's fiancé - he loves that she makes him feel like a normal guy.
Adorable!
I really adored those two!
It was a great spy-dramancedy. ☺
I had some tiny little problems.
Betty is 26. Had someone asked me how old I would guess she is? I would've said at least early thirties - she does not come across that young at all.
And then, just like in Kylie's last book - this book starts and we're right in the story. There's no warm-up - no foreplay - no prologue. I'm not sure how I feel about that. I kinda like it, because I hate unnecessary bla bla - but I also wanted a bit MORE before the real action begins.
It feels like the book was a hundred pages longer, but an editor told Kylie she had to cut this and that and that and so much more ... it would've been better with some more pages.
But other than that - it was a cute little thrillery romance! I liked reading it! I wouldn't mind seeing it on TV one day!
And I REALLY love the cover!!!!
LIES was a fun & sexy James Bondy dramance! Run to your nearest amazon for your own Thom - this one is MINE!!!
♡
♡
July 20, 2019
4 STARS
This book was so much fun! It reminded me of the movie Knight & Day, except it was actually good. *smiles sheepishly* What? That movie was ridiculous. But I did love the concept. And Lies delivered on the delicious promise the blurb brought. Full of action, steam, and enough laugh out loud moments that kept you glued to the pages from beginning to finish!
The story is uniquely fun:
Girl meets boy.
Boy turns out to be a snoozefest.
Girl leaves boy because she doesn't want to settle.
Her apartment blows up. She gets kidnapped. She gets thrown knee deep into a dangerous game of espionage and betrayal.
Girl finds out her safe and boring (ex)boyfriend is a super agent extraordinaire that's been lying to her the entire time they were together. Boy turns out to be not so boring after all.
Girl's entire world gets turned upside down.
Intrigued yet? You should be!
Betty and Thom were so much fun. I loved Thom's intensity when the real him finally appears and his fierce protectiveness of Betty. This is one badass, people. This man kicks some ass and takes name, and barely breaks a sweat doing it. Man but I loved him.
Betty was one endearing ball of quirk. I loved her character. She's fierce in her own right and she doesn't exactly take it easy on Thom when she finds out the huge lie he's been keeping from her. Plus, considering the woman is a civilian, she certainly handled the whole kidnapping by secret agents and being thrown into a dangerous game of spy kill spy rather well. I mean, I'd probably be peeing my pants in a corner somewhere. But this chick had some tough skin. She managed to come off both vulnerable and yet like she can handle her own and I loved that. She wasn't perfect and those faults totally worked in her favor and completely endeared me to her.
The story is one action packed ride full of bullets, steam, and secrets and I loved it! If you're looking for something different but with plenty of the signature Kylie Scott humor, definitely pick this one up!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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Now I find out you’re some weird vigilante assassin ninja super-spy, I don’t even know what exactly.”
“Just ‘operative’ is fine. Fits onto a business card easier.”
This book was so much fun! It reminded me of the movie Knight & Day, except it was actually good. *smiles sheepishly* What? That movie was ridiculous. But I did love the concept. And Lies delivered on the delicious promise the blurb brought. Full of action, steam, and enough laugh out loud moments that kept you glued to the pages from beginning to finish!
The story is uniquely fun:
Girl meets boy.
Boy turns out to be a snoozefest.
Girl leaves boy because she doesn't want to settle.
Her apartment blows up. She gets kidnapped. She gets thrown knee deep into a dangerous game of espionage and betrayal.
Girl finds out her safe and boring (ex)boyfriend is a super agent extraordinaire that's been lying to her the entire time they were together. Boy turns out to be not so boring after all.
Girl's entire world gets turned upside down.
Intrigued yet? You should be!
Betty and Thom were so much fun. I loved Thom's intensity when the real him finally appears and his fierce protectiveness of Betty. This is one badass, people. This man kicks some ass and takes name, and barely breaks a sweat doing it. Man but I loved him.
Betty was one endearing ball of quirk. I loved her character. She's fierce in her own right and she doesn't exactly take it easy on Thom when she finds out the huge lie he's been keeping from her. Plus, considering the woman is a civilian, she certainly handled the whole kidnapping by secret agents and being thrown into a dangerous game of spy kill spy rather well. I mean, I'd probably be peeing my pants in a corner somewhere. But this chick had some tough skin. She managed to come off both vulnerable and yet like she can handle her own and I loved that. She wasn't perfect and those faults totally worked in her favor and completely endeared me to her.
The story is one action packed ride full of bullets, steam, and secrets and I loved it! If you're looking for something different but with plenty of the signature Kylie Scott humor, definitely pick this one up!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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February 4, 2020
TITLE: LIES
AUTHOR: Kylie Scott
RELEASE DATE: November 5,2019
GENRE: Romantic Suspense
TROPES: Second Chance
NARRATORS: Andi Arndt
LENGTH: 6 hrs and 22 mins
RATING: 4 Stars
CLIFFHANGER: No
I enjoyed this one thoroughly! It was such an action packed story with an adorable snarky heroine who doesn't let the hero get away with anything at all. Although he is the James Bond like character with the intelligence to boot Betty is always a step ahead of him. I really loved how she outsmarted Thom. And while Thom made me tear my hair out in the beginning I really loved his protective instinct.
I did think that this could have been a little deeper, the book is short and not a lot of page time is given to the real relationship development, what with Thom lying to Betty for a year and him not really understanding how used Betty must have felt. I missed this a little. This was still a riveting story and if you are in the mood for a quick, fun read do pick this up!
Regarding Andi Arndt I don't think I need to say what an amazing performer she is. She's such a pro and at the peak of her narrator career.
AUTHOR: Kylie Scott
RELEASE DATE: November 5,2019
GENRE: Romantic Suspense
TROPES: Second Chance
NARRATORS: Andi Arndt
LENGTH: 6 hrs and 22 mins
RATING: 4 Stars
CLIFFHANGER: No
I enjoyed this one thoroughly! It was such an action packed story with an adorable snarky heroine who doesn't let the hero get away with anything at all. Although he is the James Bond like character with the intelligence to boot Betty is always a step ahead of him. I really loved how she outsmarted Thom. And while Thom made me tear my hair out in the beginning I really loved his protective instinct.
I did think that this could have been a little deeper, the book is short and not a lot of page time is given to the real relationship development, what with Thom lying to Betty for a year and him not really understanding how used Betty must have felt. I missed this a little. This was still a riveting story and if you are in the mood for a quick, fun read do pick this up!
Regarding Andi Arndt I don't think I need to say what an amazing performer she is. She's such a pro and at the peak of her narrator career.
July 21, 2019
“Our whole relationship was like a mission to you. You assessed my life, inserted yourself into it, and then only worked within the parameters you were comfortable with.”
It has been a long time since I’ve read a Kylie Scott book and when I saw she was releasing a new book, I jumped at the chance to yet again devour one of her stories. I have always been a big fan of her writing and she did not disappoint with Lies. I love suspenseful romances and thrive on the anticipation of what’s to come next through the many twists and turns.
What would you do if you found out your fiancé was living a double life and was nothing like the person you thought he was? Shocked to say the least, without a doubt. Betty, who has been with her fiancé Thom for about a year, has decided things just aren’t going to work out between them and wants to cut their losses. They have lost any remanence of a spark between them and their whole relationship has become predictable and boring to say the least. Thom’s always so busy with work and life has become a lonely existence for Betty. She wants someone who will make her their number 1 priority and Betty thinks it’s best to leave Thom and end their relationship.
When Betty’s life as she knows it turns upside down, she then discovers who the real Thom is; he is nothing like the man she thought she knew. It appears Thom has a whole secret life that Betty knew nothing about and is not the boring and predictable man she thought he was. He’s the complete opposite in fact; he’s protective, he’s overly confident and in no way shape or form boring and predictable.
Betty is angry about discovering the real Thom, she feels hurt, betrayed and that their whole relationship was built on lies. Circumstances arise and they are on the run, attempting to find out who wants them dead. This may be the perfect opportunity for Betty to learn the real Thom. Will she love what she discovers and perhaps she prefers the fast-past and action filled life rather than the boring and routine driven existence, or is this betrayal too much for Betty and will it really be over for them once and for all?
Lies by Kylie Scott was an entertaining read that pulled me in from the start and kept me invested in this hilarious, action packed romantic suspense right up until the very end. I can’t recommend it enough.
November 13, 2019
Despues de leer Lies puedo decir sinceramente que es uno de los libros mas disparatado e insolito que he leido y aun asi no puedo mas que alabar a Kylie Scott por su fantastica mente, la cual es capaz de crear una historia llena de accion y aun asi hacerlo con un toque divertido y un poco absurdo que me lo hizo pasar de fabula.
Lies es el tipo de novela que debes leer sin analizarla demasiado, puesto que la trama en ciertos momentos es un poco irreal y cogida con pinzas, no obstante si eres de las que disfrutan de las lecturas un poco locas, esta es una muy buena opcion.
En resumen, Lies es divertida, insolente y entretenida hasta limites insospechados, realmente no pense que fuera a ser tan graciosa pero me saco varias carcajadas mientras pasaba las paginas.
3.25 Estrellas!
August 30, 2022
2022: had to bump it up a star since I clearly like it enough to re-read it.
2019: Meh. Not a great suspenseful/romantic combo. Felt way too forced, but it is a quick read. 🤷🏻♀️
2019: Meh. Not a great suspenseful/romantic combo. Felt way too forced, but it is a quick read. 🤷🏻♀️
August 7, 2019
3 ⭐'s
I love Kylie Scott's books and it pains me to only give this book three stars....but as much as I enjoyed the romance I was left feeling deprived.
Plain and simple, I am not a romantic suspense kind of girl and I knew that going in. Still, I couldn't resist and for the most part I really enjoyed Thom and Betty's relationship. I just thought the "agent" stuff was too much. Or better yet...the balance between the agent stuff and the romance could have been more equal.
I thought the premise was pretty genius...it had a real Mr. and Mrs. Smith feel. Thom and Betty are engaged but Betty thinks Thom is boring and she doesn't want to settle for that. Unfortunately, when she is packing up, the condo explodes and she is kidnapped...that's when she meets Wolf. And I just LOVED Wolf!
It was funny reading about how Wolf got his feelings hurt and how he tried to redeem himself. Betty certainly wasn't complaining...too much!
There's this big drama with double agents and gun fights...blah, blah, blah but there were some pretty interesting secondary characters that I wouldn't mind a book about. Hello Crow....
Overall, a good read. There are a lot of four and five stars so don't let my lower rating sway you.
I love Kylie Scott's books and it pains me to only give this book three stars....but as much as I enjoyed the romance I was left feeling deprived.
Plain and simple, I am not a romantic suspense kind of girl and I knew that going in. Still, I couldn't resist and for the most part I really enjoyed Thom and Betty's relationship. I just thought the "agent" stuff was too much. Or better yet...the balance between the agent stuff and the romance could have been more equal.
I thought the premise was pretty genius...it had a real Mr. and Mrs. Smith feel. Thom and Betty are engaged but Betty thinks Thom is boring and she doesn't want to settle for that. Unfortunately, when she is packing up, the condo explodes and she is kidnapped...that's when she meets Wolf. And I just LOVED Wolf!
It was funny reading about how Wolf got his feelings hurt and how he tried to redeem himself. Betty certainly wasn't complaining...too much!
There's this big drama with double agents and gun fights...blah, blah, blah but there were some pretty interesting secondary characters that I wouldn't mind a book about. Hello Crow....
Overall, a good read. There are a lot of four and five stars so don't let my lower rating sway you.
September 2, 2019
I've been wanting to read this one for a while and I finally got the time to read it. 📒 I liked it. 😪 Sure I thought she got over his deception WAY too easily, but it was an entertaining story. 👀 That is until we got to the twist. 😒 Then this author lost me. 🔚 I mean seriously? 💣 That twist just showed that this hero didn't give a fuck about Betty at all. 💔 To do something like that after all the lies you had told her previous...ugh. 😈 This guy was an epic douche. 💩 And do not even get me started on doormat Betty that just forgives him!! ⛔ Like what the fuck ever. ♨ Betty was so pathetic she deserved this asshole ⬅ I hated the fucking ending of this book, can you tell?? 😂 
September 7, 2019
DNF at 20%. I couldn’t take it anymore.
This was the barest outline of a book - missing details, emotions and reality. Their conversations were utterly bizarre given the circumstances. I’m fleeing back to the safety of historical romances.
This was the barest outline of a book - missing details, emotions and reality. Their conversations were utterly bizarre given the circumstances. I’m fleeing back to the safety of historical romances.
July 5, 2021
another good read by Kylie Scott this book is fast pace and fun like all books by this author you don't have to wait for the story to start action is happening from the very being.
Kylie Scott's books are perfect for a book hangover this one is no different
Kylie Scott's books are perfect for a book hangover this one is no different
November 5, 2019
Audio..4 stars
Story..2.5 stars
Story..2.5 stars
October 27, 2019
So I gave myself a little time to think and a chance to feel differently about this book... and it didn't work. I'm sorry to say this was the most mediocre book that I could imagine Kylie Scott writing. Yes it was funny sometimes, because duh, it's what this lady is known for but it couldn't save the story from having any sort of meat to it.
Over and out
Over and out
July 28, 2019
So that was unexpected. Kind of thrilling with some decent intrigue. Not so strong as a romance but it made for a refreshing change from my usual
April 16, 2020
A fun light romantic suspense!!!!! I'm giving it 4.5!!!!
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