Lie Till I Believe is the debut book for author Jude Ann. It’s a full-length novel that covers several troupes including mystery, second chance romance, and friends-to-lovers.
If you love books with suspense and drama, then please give this new author a try. Till I Believe will take you on a journey as you read about the tragic upbringing of our heroine, Grace, and her next-door neighbor turned roommate, Ian. They come together under unusual but necessary circumstances. He is a sexy and wealthy businessman, a wonderful brother and son, and someone who is harboring deep secrets.
Grace suffers from depression and nightmares from her past, and I admire her seeking professional help so that she can move forward and heal. She is fierce, a survivor, strong, caring and honest, and wanted so much to be loved. The storyline about her sister, Sam, was heartbreaking and emotional, and I really felt for Grace. The author did commendable job writing about the pain of addiction and sexual abuse, which is never easy.
This book often flashes back to the past, then back to the present time, and is told in dual points of view. I appreciate the build-up and suspense as you learn who Acacia really is, a young woman from Ian’s past. The plot is complex, unfolding to reveal new secrets as the book progresses and you will gain a clear understanding of all the little tidbits that were dropped along the way as it will all come full-circle with a surprise plot twist at the end. The characters are well-defined, and their actions will keep you guessing the entire time.
Ian went from being broody, bossy and complicated, to sweet, protective, attentive, and nurturing, and you will understand why at the end so don’t give up on him! He only wanted Grace to be his, mentally and physically safe and secure, with no more secrets between them. I did enjoy their journey overall, and am glad it included an epilogue with a HEA three years down the road.