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Secrets & Lies
My picker is off. I always fall for the bad boys, the players, the men with "red flag" written all over their gorgeous faces. I should've learned my lesson after having my heart eviscerated into tiny, unrecognizable pieces. But no, not me. That would be way too simple, and my life is nothing but.
Luca Fiore is Manhattan's Prince. He's sex in a suit personified, and he's also my stepbrother. I've moved back to New York, and he's offered me a place to crash until I find a place of my own. What could possibly go wrong?
My subconscious screams, "EVERYTHING!"
With his piercing gray eyes, sharp jaw, and dark hair, Luca makes me weak in the knees. And I would gladly get on my knees for him.
Five years ago, I left home with a broken heart and a lifetime worth of sins. Now, I'm back with a naïve hope that I can make things right. How I expect to do that when I have no intention of confessing my sins remains to be seen. One thing is for sure. I have to stay away from the one person who was why I left home in the first place — the man who once called me his Achilles. His flower. His secret. His stepdaughter.
I'm not the good girl in a love story. I don't deserve a happily ever after. I have secrets on top of secrets on top of secrets. I've sowed, and I've reaped, and something tells me karma isn't done with me yet.
This is a BWWM contemporary romance novel. ***Warning: Contains mature subject matter. TRIGGER WARNINGS: rape, pregnancy-related issues
Luca Fiore is Manhattan's Prince. He's sex in a suit personified, and he's also my stepbrother. I've moved back to New York, and he's offered me a place to crash until I find a place of my own. What could possibly go wrong?
My subconscious screams, "EVERYTHING!"
With his piercing gray eyes, sharp jaw, and dark hair, Luca makes me weak in the knees. And I would gladly get on my knees for him.
Five years ago, I left home with a broken heart and a lifetime worth of sins. Now, I'm back with a naïve hope that I can make things right. How I expect to do that when I have no intention of confessing my sins remains to be seen. One thing is for sure. I have to stay away from the one person who was why I left home in the first place — the man who once called me his Achilles. His flower. His secret. His stepdaughter.
I'm not the good girl in a love story. I don't deserve a happily ever after. I have secrets on top of secrets on top of secrets. I've sowed, and I've reaped, and something tells me karma isn't done with me yet.
This is a BWWM contemporary romance novel. ***Warning: Contains mature subject matter. TRIGGER WARNINGS: rape, pregnancy-related issues
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 21, 2020
105 people are currently reading
74 people want to read
About the author
Tia Sirrah
5 books139 followersTia Sirrah loves to create interracial contemporary romance stories about flawed people and their unfiltered journeys that eventually lead to their happily ever afters. An introvert at heart with an overactive imagination, writing has been a hobby of Tia’s since she was a little girl. Her love of reading and writing led her to attend California State University Hayward, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in English with a concentration in Creative Writing. She currently resides in Northern California with her husband, their two children, and a cuddle-bully cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
January 3, 2021
Bravo
I loved every bit of this story. My heart was sad for Aria. Having been loved unconditionally by my mother, I can't imagine that kind of relationship Aria and her mother had. I mean I understand she was a product of rape but that wasn't her fault. She did not ask to be born. So I didn't like her mother. Dean was a snake. Dean and Mama deserved each other. Lizzie was pitiful. I do loved Luca and Aria together. I am becoming a fan of Tia Sirrah work. I admire the way she tells a story and it's like you're reading her pages and something pops off and you're like I didn't see that coming. I love that about her work. I'm looking forward to more work from her. Having read her other works i can't wait to read more from her. Again bravo.
I loved every bit of this story. My heart was sad for Aria. Having been loved unconditionally by my mother, I can't imagine that kind of relationship Aria and her mother had. I mean I understand she was a product of rape but that wasn't her fault. She did not ask to be born. So I didn't like her mother. Dean was a snake. Dean and Mama deserved each other. Lizzie was pitiful. I do loved Luca and Aria together. I am becoming a fan of Tia Sirrah work. I admire the way she tells a story and it's like you're reading her pages and something pops off and you're like I didn't see that coming. I love that about her work. I'm looking forward to more work from her. Having read her other works i can't wait to read more from her. Again bravo.
March 23, 2021
There's a spark, but it's not part of this book.
The reading of the book has therefore been disappointing. I thought the premise of this book was incredibly disjointed.
I just really hoped I could enjoy this story. I thought initially that it was suspensive and that the characters were clever, but unfortunately it flattened out. It did not take long for me not to care what was happening in this book and as the plot continues I lost interest.
The story follows an immature girl (Aria) without spines, sharp or flair that has the hots for her stepbrother. She's a deeply troubled individual, she's had an affair with her mother's husband, but she's looking for her mother's love.
It’s a big underwhelming mess. The characters are not fully developed and all of them are superficial. The writing style of this work is quite basic. I didn't like it, I found the dialogue boring and most of the interaction sounded very corny to me.
It is difficult to delve into a book with such a aureate story when the writing style does not have decorousness. Because of the writing style, I constantly distanced myself from the essence of the book's intrigue.
I was unable to connect to the characters or the plot and ended up not caring. None of the characters were particularly convincing and I was fundamentally frustrated with them during the entire length of the book.
It's not something I'm going to recommend easily. I'm sure I'll forget about the characters and the book in the twinkling of an eye.
The reading of the book has therefore been disappointing. I thought the premise of this book was incredibly disjointed.
I just really hoped I could enjoy this story. I thought initially that it was suspensive and that the characters were clever, but unfortunately it flattened out. It did not take long for me not to care what was happening in this book and as the plot continues I lost interest.
The story follows an immature girl (Aria) without spines, sharp or flair that has the hots for her stepbrother. She's a deeply troubled individual, she's had an affair with her mother's husband, but she's looking for her mother's love.
It’s a big underwhelming mess. The characters are not fully developed and all of them are superficial. The writing style of this work is quite basic. I didn't like it, I found the dialogue boring and most of the interaction sounded very corny to me.
It is difficult to delve into a book with such a aureate story when the writing style does not have decorousness. Because of the writing style, I constantly distanced myself from the essence of the book's intrigue.
I was unable to connect to the characters or the plot and ended up not caring. None of the characters were particularly convincing and I was fundamentally frustrated with them during the entire length of the book.
It's not something I'm going to recommend easily. I'm sure I'll forget about the characters and the book in the twinkling of an eye.
June 8, 2021
2.5 Stars
Everybody in this book were unlikeable (horrible people) with the exception of Yasmin, Liam and LJ. I hope Yasmin gets her own story. I'm still a fan of this author and will continue to read her books.
Your opinion may differ!
Everybody in this book were unlikeable (horrible people) with the exception of Yasmin, Liam and LJ. I hope Yasmin gets her own story. I'm still a fan of this author and will continue to read her books.
Your opinion may differ!
June 11, 2021
Flawed Human Beings
Another great and compelling book by Tia Sirrah. This story is unconventional, Forbidden and Taboo, and I loved every minute of it. Aria and Luca are both flawed human beings with messy, tangled past. Secrets and Lies is BWWM with twists and surprises😍. If you like age gap romances with Taboo themes, read this book.
This book is well written, has great story development and unbelievable imperfect characters you will love.
Another great and compelling book by Tia Sirrah. This story is unconventional, Forbidden and Taboo, and I loved every minute of it. Aria and Luca are both flawed human beings with messy, tangled past. Secrets and Lies is BWWM with twists and surprises😍. If you like age gap romances with Taboo themes, read this book.
This book is well written, has great story development and unbelievable imperfect characters you will love.
March 23, 2024
I must start by saying I felt some kinda way when this story started out. I'm just happy that Aria was at least 17 years old. Otherwise, I would have felt like a perv for continuing to read her story. The first relationship that Aria entered into was very Taboo and morally incorrect. It almost seemed as if she was taken advantage of because of her youth.
Then she established a relationship with Luca, her stepbrother. Come on girl... Get it together. However, Luca and Aria were good together. They encouraged each other and made each other feel less like outcasts in their circle. Luca was trying to recover from being a man-slut, so no one took it seriously when he established a real relationship.
Aria and Luca faced drama after drama after drama until their HEA. I was slightly disturbed by the maternal person in the story. Aria's mother was the ultimate gold digger. No one else matters except her, her needs, and her desires. I was surprised when she did not take a shot at Luca.
Overall, I loved the story. I have loved other works by Ms. Sirrah and can't wait for the next one.
Happy reading!
Then she established a relationship with Luca, her stepbrother. Come on girl... Get it together. However, Luca and Aria were good together. They encouraged each other and made each other feel less like outcasts in their circle. Luca was trying to recover from being a man-slut, so no one took it seriously when he established a real relationship.
Aria and Luca faced drama after drama after drama until their HEA. I was slightly disturbed by the maternal person in the story. Aria's mother was the ultimate gold digger. No one else matters except her, her needs, and her desires. I was surprised when she did not take a shot at Luca.
Overall, I loved the story. I have loved other works by Ms. Sirrah and can't wait for the next one.
Happy reading!
January 9, 2021
Wow, what an emotional read. Tia Sirrah has become one of my favorite authors. I've read all of her books and each of them are so intense. Secrets and Lies is no exception. Her characters are flawed individuals, who overcome obstacles and we, as the readers, go along for the ride as they discover and try to repair the issues that have caused so much trauma in their lives. I really enjoyed this story. It started out with Aria having an affair with her stepfather, and I was thinking this was going to be a love story between them, but no! It takes a turn and we get to know Aria over the years as she becomes more self-aware and mature into her 20s. Lots of drama, passion and amazingly hot love scenes await in this book. I highly recommend.
February 22, 2021
Messy,Messy...
I love Tia Sirrah's books... Never a dull moment! I don't know how you can turn something so messy and taboo into such a beautiful story. In a perfect world, Dean would be a pariah, but life can be messy ( here we go again). I feel for Patty, but when you bring a child into this world NO MATTER THE CIRCUMSTANCES, that child still deserves the very best you can offer. In all this, young Aria was a victim even though she doesn't see it that way and refuse to see herself as one. She was still a "child". I hope I didn't leave to many SPOILERS.
Luca, darling you think you are messed up, but honey you are one hell of a man. I am glad that you and Aria made it and find true love. BTW, I love your babies, and I wish you many more !!!
Love it!
I love Tia Sirrah's books... Never a dull moment! I don't know how you can turn something so messy and taboo into such a beautiful story. In a perfect world, Dean would be a pariah, but life can be messy ( here we go again). I feel for Patty, but when you bring a child into this world NO MATTER THE CIRCUMSTANCES, that child still deserves the very best you can offer. In all this, young Aria was a victim even though she doesn't see it that way and refuse to see herself as one. She was still a "child". I hope I didn't leave to many SPOILERS.
Luca, darling you think you are messed up, but honey you are one hell of a man. I am glad that you and Aria made it and find true love. BTW, I love your babies, and I wish you many more !!!
Love it!
March 15, 2021
Page Turner
*****Spoilers*****
Aria and Luca, definitely not a conventional story theirs. At times, especially in the beginning of the book, I wasn't sure that I even liked Aria. Step siblings the two are but it's not really clear how much their paths crossed when they were both younger, we only get the now. The now in their story has more stops and starts than I would have expected which was a good thing in the beginning I thought. Aria and Luca with their pasts and family drama could use a second think or fifteen. Gross factor that Aria slept with her step father, also Luca's dad, when she was 17 until stepdad ended things but not before getting Aria pregnant. She unfortunately lost the baby so there's 1 baggage that comes with a miscarriage. That plays a part when Aria learns that although Luca gave up his long time casual girlfriend Lizzie for her, Aria feels the need to break things off with Luca even though they're in love with one another when she finds out that Lizzie is pregnant and Luca is the father. There was another possibility which was a bit of a twist but in the end, the DNA comes back to Luca. Lizzie dies giving birth to Luca's son which I thought was sad but it makes things easier for Luca and Aria in future since the two women were far from friendly.
All in all, I didn't really get Luca and wasn't sure when he went from cold-hearted to in love with Aria. There didn't really seem to be any transition. Luca saw Aria leaving a party with another man and realized how jealous he was and just like that, he returns Aria's affections which she admitted early on, only to be rejected by Luca. Maybe if the story had been told more from Luca's POV it would have felt more real. The parts of the book that I did think felt real were the jealousy and suspicion that Aria's mom had toward her daughter. It persisted even try the point where her mother has a wondering in her eye that hints at thoughts that Aria's baby could be her husband's. Mother of the year she's not, but Aria's mother's insecurities have deep roots from years living with a man who cheats on her regularly. Good thing Aria has changed her ways from the affair days and isn't interested in Dean anymore. Luca caught and held onto Aria and she him and they are on the way.
*****Spoilers*****
Aria and Luca, definitely not a conventional story theirs. At times, especially in the beginning of the book, I wasn't sure that I even liked Aria. Step siblings the two are but it's not really clear how much their paths crossed when they were both younger, we only get the now. The now in their story has more stops and starts than I would have expected which was a good thing in the beginning I thought. Aria and Luca with their pasts and family drama could use a second think or fifteen. Gross factor that Aria slept with her step father, also Luca's dad, when she was 17 until stepdad ended things but not before getting Aria pregnant. She unfortunately lost the baby so there's 1 baggage that comes with a miscarriage. That plays a part when Aria learns that although Luca gave up his long time casual girlfriend Lizzie for her, Aria feels the need to break things off with Luca even though they're in love with one another when she finds out that Lizzie is pregnant and Luca is the father. There was another possibility which was a bit of a twist but in the end, the DNA comes back to Luca. Lizzie dies giving birth to Luca's son which I thought was sad but it makes things easier for Luca and Aria in future since the two women were far from friendly.
All in all, I didn't really get Luca and wasn't sure when he went from cold-hearted to in love with Aria. There didn't really seem to be any transition. Luca saw Aria leaving a party with another man and realized how jealous he was and just like that, he returns Aria's affections which she admitted early on, only to be rejected by Luca. Maybe if the story had been told more from Luca's POV it would have felt more real. The parts of the book that I did think felt real were the jealousy and suspicion that Aria's mom had toward her daughter. It persisted even try the point where her mother has a wondering in her eye that hints at thoughts that Aria's baby could be her husband's. Mother of the year she's not, but Aria's mother's insecurities have deep roots from years living with a man who cheats on her regularly. Good thing Aria has changed her ways from the affair days and isn't interested in Dean anymore. Luca caught and held onto Aria and she him and they are on the way.
December 26, 2020
Ok
The book was ok. However a lot of the angst was unnecessary. The worse part was really between Aria and her mother. This obsession with maternal love is really irritating. Yes Aria having an affair with her stepfather is terrible, however her mother’s reaction, being happy about her son’s death was despicable. Not to excuse her behavior, however Aria was a teenager with both mommy and daddy issues and basically was manipulated by Dean. Her mother’s behavior was unquestionable. Yes Aria was the result of rape, however from the moment she decided to keep her, she should have treated her better. If she couldn’t she should have given her up for adoption. She abandoned her at birth and left her with her mother and then she continuously put Dean ahead herself if her. She also was hardly blame free as she had an affair with Dean for 5 years before they got married. For her to drop by after 5 years is not positive if you ask me. Sometimes even parents should be cut off if they are toxic.
The book was ok. However a lot of the angst was unnecessary. The worse part was really between Aria and her mother. This obsession with maternal love is really irritating. Yes Aria having an affair with her stepfather is terrible, however her mother’s reaction, being happy about her son’s death was despicable. Not to excuse her behavior, however Aria was a teenager with both mommy and daddy issues and basically was manipulated by Dean. Her mother’s behavior was unquestionable. Yes Aria was the result of rape, however from the moment she decided to keep her, she should have treated her better. If she couldn’t she should have given her up for adoption. She abandoned her at birth and left her with her mother and then she continuously put Dean ahead herself if her. She also was hardly blame free as she had an affair with Dean for 5 years before they got married. For her to drop by after 5 years is not positive if you ask me. Sometimes even parents should be cut off if they are toxic.
March 10, 2021
I love Tia Sirrah’s writing but I didn’t love this book.
As always the writing was above standard, and the story moved well because Sirrah is a fantastic writer. I’ve read everything that Sirrah has published, and she often writes characters with flaws, and I enjoy that. Unfortunately, this book had flawed characters and no accountability that I didn’t like. There were many red flags, and not one character in the book was redeemable other than the heroine who needs A LOT of therapy. Even though the book's content was not for me, I encourage others to read it because the story does catch your attention and suck you in. The drama and the massive train wreck relationships are messy but entertaining.
As always the writing was above standard, and the story moved well because Sirrah is a fantastic writer. I’ve read everything that Sirrah has published, and she often writes characters with flaws, and I enjoy that. Unfortunately, this book had flawed characters and no accountability that I didn’t like. There were many red flags, and not one character in the book was redeemable other than the heroine who needs A LOT of therapy. Even though the book's content was not for me, I encourage others to read it because the story does catch your attention and suck you in. The drama and the massive train wreck relationships are messy but entertaining.
December 31, 2020
This book is absolutely amazing!!! This book is truly Secrets & Lies and it's everything and more. It really keep you on your toes and bring all of your emotions out. It will have you angry, sad, shocked, crying, happy and full of joy. The writer did an awesome job writing this book with the raw, honest and emotions coming from this story. I absolutely loved it due to the fact that this book and story line is absolutely different and it was very refreshing to read something new.
March 21, 2023
I absolutely 💯 LOVE this author, she is beyond talented but I have to say, this book was different from her others...yes it did have touches of family history & scandal as her others but at times I was like woah, these people are too much 😆 but I'm glad everything worked out for Aria in the end, too bad her mother couldn't get it together, she got what she deserved!
January 28, 2021
I enjoyed the flow of the book i just had to wrap my mind around how screwed up the character were.
October 5, 2021
This wasn’t my favorite by the author. I disliked most of the characters; especially patty and dean. Also Luca. And on occasion Aria
January 5, 2023
My thoughts:
This book is unimaginably heartbreaking, emotional, forbidden and taboo, another amazing book by Tia Sirrah she never disappoints the way she writes her character intersting, messy and flowed with hidden secrets & lies, her books are a journey you see these characters go through all this pain and intense emotional feelings you become a part of the journey and you want to discover what will happen how will they overcome this i just can’t describe it, my feelings are all over the place, Luca and Aria’s love story is very unconventional and its filled with obstacles how they lived their lives and how it shaped them to who they are now, family love and compassion is everything in live because Aria was lacking it she looked for it in other places even if it was forbidden as taboo as it was from beginning till the very end the paces of the story and the atmosphere made the story ten times more beautiful i was very emotional towards the end
Favorite Quote:
“Do you love her?”
“Do you see her when you close your eyes at night? Does it hurt like hell when you imagine her with another lover? Do you sometimes wish you can take your heart back because you know that if she ever breaks it, it’ll destroy you?.”
“No one deserves to be loved. One should earn it. Love is a privilege, not a right”
Trops:
-FML POV, occasionally the Male POV would pop out which was just Wow i needed it so much
-Stepbrother- Stepsister
-Age Gap
-Taboo & Forbidden
-pregnancy/ Miscarriage
-Emotional/ Triggering
Rating:
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book is unimaginably heartbreaking, emotional, forbidden and taboo, another amazing book by Tia Sirrah she never disappoints the way she writes her character intersting, messy and flowed with hidden secrets & lies, her books are a journey you see these characters go through all this pain and intense emotional feelings you become a part of the journey and you want to discover what will happen how will they overcome this i just can’t describe it, my feelings are all over the place, Luca and Aria’s love story is very unconventional and its filled with obstacles how they lived their lives and how it shaped them to who they are now, family love and compassion is everything in live because Aria was lacking it she looked for it in other places even if it was forbidden as taboo as it was from beginning till the very end the paces of the story and the atmosphere made the story ten times more beautiful i was very emotional towards the end
Favorite Quote:
“Do you love her?”
“Do you see her when you close your eyes at night? Does it hurt like hell when you imagine her with another lover? Do you sometimes wish you can take your heart back because you know that if she ever breaks it, it’ll destroy you?.”
“No one deserves to be loved. One should earn it. Love is a privilege, not a right”
Trops:
-FML POV, occasionally the Male POV would pop out which was just Wow i needed it so much
-Stepbrother- Stepsister
-Age Gap
-Taboo & Forbidden
-pregnancy/ Miscarriage
-Emotional/ Triggering
Rating:
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 22, 2024
A Twisted Tale of Family, Lies, and Secrets
Aria’s story is heartbreaking from the start. Abandoned emotionally by her mother, Patricia, who could never love her after a traumatic past, Aria is raised by her grandmother. But when Grandma Rae dies, Aria is forced to live with Patricia. Things only get worse from there—Patricia's husband, Dean, is a serial cheater who eventually seduces Aria, leaving her pregnant. Dean, true to his slimy nature, even tries to pay her off.
While Aria tries to escape the chaos, the past refuses to stay buried. Luca, Dean's son, comes into her life, and despite their love, the tangled web of lies threatens to ruin them. To make matters worse, Luca’s longtime friend with benefits Lizzie is pregnant, though the paternity is questionable. When Lizzie tragically dies during childbirth, both Luca and his assistant Ivan are left shattered.
This book is an intense rollercoaster of family secrets, betrayal, and forbidden love. The plot is filled with twists, heartbreak, and enough drama to keep you glued to the pages. Though some parts were heavy, the story ultimately delivers a satisfying ending. It’s worth the read for those who love complex, emotionally charged romances that are taboo.
Aria’s story is heartbreaking from the start. Abandoned emotionally by her mother, Patricia, who could never love her after a traumatic past, Aria is raised by her grandmother. But when Grandma Rae dies, Aria is forced to live with Patricia. Things only get worse from there—Patricia's husband, Dean, is a serial cheater who eventually seduces Aria, leaving her pregnant. Dean, true to his slimy nature, even tries to pay her off.
While Aria tries to escape the chaos, the past refuses to stay buried. Luca, Dean's son, comes into her life, and despite their love, the tangled web of lies threatens to ruin them. To make matters worse, Luca’s longtime friend with benefits Lizzie is pregnant, though the paternity is questionable. When Lizzie tragically dies during childbirth, both Luca and his assistant Ivan are left shattered.
This book is an intense rollercoaster of family secrets, betrayal, and forbidden love. The plot is filled with twists, heartbreak, and enough drama to keep you glued to the pages. Though some parts were heavy, the story ultimately delivers a satisfying ending. It’s worth the read for those who love complex, emotionally charged romances that are taboo.
September 5, 2024
I didn’t know what to make of the first half of this book, I didn’t know if I liked Aria and Luca to begin with. Dean and Patricia were definitely unlikeable and I couldn’t connect with Lizzie probably because there is only a very short chapter from her perspective, although I did sympathise with her. The first part of the book was uncomfortable to read but at the same time it was like watching a drama, i needed to know how it would all unfold and was hoping Dean would get what he deserved.
I really enjoyed the second half of the book once Aria and Luca has confessed their feelings for each other, and seeing their relationship grow. It would have been good to get more of the story as it was quite short for the amount of crazy that was happening.
I surprisingly grew to like Luca and Aria and their story.
4.75
I really enjoyed the second half of the book once Aria and Luca has confessed their feelings for each other, and seeing their relationship grow. It would have been good to get more of the story as it was quite short for the amount of crazy that was happening.
I surprisingly grew to like Luca and Aria and their story.
4.75
October 13, 2024
Stepbrother and stepsister fall in love
This was a tough but so good! The h is friends with another character from a previous series that I read and I was excited to hear her story. She moved back to NY after being a way got a few years and is meets her stepbrother aka the H, at the airport. She was going to stay with him until she can find a place.
The h’s mom and the H’s father are both something else but so is the female lead. The h had a crazy upbringing and think she could have benefited from counseling.
For some people who may not know, there is cheating mentioned and touched on along with under age sex (17 year old). This couple went through A Lot and if cheating doesn’t turn you off, definitely check this book out. I love the author includes a in the future chapter.
This was a tough but so good! The h is friends with another character from a previous series that I read and I was excited to hear her story. She moved back to NY after being a way got a few years and is meets her stepbrother aka the H, at the airport. She was going to stay with him until she can find a place.
The h’s mom and the H’s father are both something else but so is the female lead. The h had a crazy upbringing and think she could have benefited from counseling.
For some people who may not know, there is cheating mentioned and touched on along with under age sex (17 year old). This couple went through A Lot and if cheating doesn’t turn you off, definitely check this book out. I love the author includes a in the future chapter.
December 23, 2021
Indifferent
Ok at first I wasn't a fan of the whole stepsibling thing not my thing. So I really didn't want to read it 😕. But I must say I'm glad I did it turned out to be a really great book. Luca and Aria together are great and the stuff with Dean was crazy. Her mother omg where do I begin I get why she wasn't close to aria but it wasn't her fault. I felt like if she didnt treat her that way the whole dean thing would not have happen. Lizzie sad what happen to her even through I was over her but I still didn't think that would happen. Glad Luca and aria finally got everything right at last. And her mom and Dean really you too
Ok at first I wasn't a fan of the whole stepsibling thing not my thing. So I really didn't want to read it 😕. But I must say I'm glad I did it turned out to be a really great book. Luca and Aria together are great and the stuff with Dean was crazy. Her mother omg where do I begin I get why she wasn't close to aria but it wasn't her fault. I felt like if she didnt treat her that way the whole dean thing would not have happen. Lizzie sad what happen to her even through I was over her but I still didn't think that would happen. Glad Luca and aria finally got everything right at last. And her mom and Dean really you too
November 25, 2022
This book is so bad that it is so good. It was wild as hell. So many unlikable characters in one book who were ghetto as hell. If the author was not a great writer, this would have been a shit show. My only gripe is with lack of background on what it is that made them fall in love. The book could have been longer and should have started from the moment he starts stalking and reaching out to her. I reckon those exchanges would have been crucial to us reader s in order to further gain insight as to why Luca fell for his step sister who had fucked his dad in the past. Also why kill Lizzie noooooo. That mother was trash. I hope Aria learnt to be OK with her mom being out of her life.
January 22, 2021
This book, This book...
This book had me speechless. Amazing first of all. On so many levels I could understand and sympathize with every single person except for Dean. Patricia's pain and trauma really stopped her from knowing how to be a Mom, although I think she truly loved Aria, it was her past she couldn't run from. I loved and rooted for Aria and Lucas's love. They both hurt people and learned from it and they deserved their happy ending with little L.J. and Ava. Well done and Beautiful story.
This book had me speechless. Amazing first of all. On so many levels I could understand and sympathize with every single person except for Dean. Patricia's pain and trauma really stopped her from knowing how to be a Mom, although I think she truly loved Aria, it was her past she couldn't run from. I loved and rooted for Aria and Lucas's love. They both hurt people and learned from it and they deserved their happy ending with little L.J. and Ava. Well done and Beautiful story.
February 27, 2021
Good Read
This is the first book I have read by this author. There are definitely some WT.... moments and I usually don’t like the loss of life unless it’s a villain, however when it occurred in this story it just made it more realistic. There are a couple of characters I would have loved to kill off Lol (with a sinister smile). This story was very well written and had several elements of shock and horror, a couple of jubilation. Overall I enjoyed the reading. It was out of the box scandalous.
This is the first book I have read by this author. There are definitely some WT.... moments and I usually don’t like the loss of life unless it’s a villain, however when it occurred in this story it just made it more realistic. There are a couple of characters I would have loved to kill off Lol (with a sinister smile). This story was very well written and had several elements of shock and horror, a couple of jubilation. Overall I enjoyed the reading. It was out of the box scandalous.
March 14, 2021
Issues with an Capital I.
Secrets and Lies is precisely the name for this book. Because the main characters are so embroiled in secrets and lies it’s a wonder that they don’t crack under the weight of it all. They come close, but bear it to the end to bask in the sunshine that awaits them there. Patricia had trauma issues, were they dealt with? Dean was a narcissist. Luca was looking for approval in the wrong place.
Aria’s problems were abandonment, and wanting her mother stamp of approval and her love.
Secrets and Lies is precisely the name for this book. Because the main characters are so embroiled in secrets and lies it’s a wonder that they don’t crack under the weight of it all. They come close, but bear it to the end to bask in the sunshine that awaits them there. Patricia had trauma issues, were they dealt with? Dean was a narcissist. Luca was looking for approval in the wrong place.
Aria’s problems were abandonment, and wanting her mother stamp of approval and her love.
October 21, 2021
4.5 stars
Wow! Talk about secrets and lies….. There were so many triggering events in this story so you must be prepared for a lot of foolery. There were so many flawed people that were interconnected. Since they were flawed, most of everything they did was flawed and foul. Aria started off as an unlikable character but the story delved deep into her background and we found out why she behaved the way she did. She did have an epiphany and morphed into an upstanding young lady. I loved the ending and that she got her HEA.
Wow! Talk about secrets and lies….. There were so many triggering events in this story so you must be prepared for a lot of foolery. There were so many flawed people that were interconnected. Since they were flawed, most of everything they did was flawed and foul. Aria started off as an unlikable character but the story delved deep into her background and we found out why she behaved the way she did. She did have an epiphany and morphed into an upstanding young lady. I loved the ending and that she got her HEA.
December 6, 2021
Messy but great writing
So much to love about this book. It was real and raw and messy like real lives are. Too messy for me. I also was irritated for the break. No real good reason for it. I would recommend because it is different then anything else you would ever read. I like the diversity and how it's done lighthearted without political or hard core racism ruining the read. Author still stayed true to black characters with a few comments made without watchful ears..in a funny way. Cute!
So much to love about this book. It was real and raw and messy like real lives are. Too messy for me. I also was irritated for the break. No real good reason for it. I would recommend because it is different then anything else you would ever read. I like the diversity and how it's done lighthearted without political or hard core racism ruining the read. Author still stayed true to black characters with a few comments made without watchful ears..in a funny way. Cute!
January 6, 2024
Excellent Book!
This book was well written by the author! I enjoyed reading it. It brought out the ugly side of selfish and cold hearted people. Unfortunately, many lives were shattered and broken because of secret and lies. It was riveting and emotional. Although, there were struggles and heartache, I'm happy Lucas and Aria got their happy ending. I recommend this book for reading. It gives you and insight how selfishness and lies can ruin so many lives. A+++ for Tia Sirrah!!!!!!
This book was well written by the author! I enjoyed reading it. It brought out the ugly side of selfish and cold hearted people. Unfortunately, many lives were shattered and broken because of secret and lies. It was riveting and emotional. Although, there were struggles and heartache, I'm happy Lucas and Aria got their happy ending. I recommend this book for reading. It gives you and insight how selfishness and lies can ruin so many lives. A+++ for Tia Sirrah!!!!!!
January 1, 2025
This wasn't awful but I don't get the point of all the toxic relationships and the way they evolved. It was a bit too much at times. Aria deserved better characterization. We got a glimpse of her troubled teenage years and Dean's predatory and despicable behavior. And then, 5 years later, she is throwing herself at Luca. Because they git close over a couple of month. Like WTF?!! We are told what she got through but it falls flat. We also never got to know Luca much. And by the end, him being close to his father is just... What happened to Lizzie was also such a cop out...
December 30, 2020
WOW
Ok...whew....this one right here...😂😂. It took a lot of turns and even some teary eyes. Aria and Luca definitely are very unique and shall I say deserving of each other. Dean and dearest mother (they might deserve their own story on how they came to be 🤔)there isn't that much eye candy in the world to tolerate the BS and just a drama queen with a extra capital D on top because she has a lot of nerve. I won't give it away but unexpected end. Great read... literally read in 2-3 days. Can't wait till the next one. 🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂
Ok...whew....this one right here...😂😂. It took a lot of turns and even some teary eyes. Aria and Luca definitely are very unique and shall I say deserving of each other. Dean and dearest mother (they might deserve their own story on how they came to be 🤔)there isn't that much eye candy in the world to tolerate the BS and just a drama queen with a extra capital D on top because she has a lot of nerve. I won't give it away but unexpected end. Great read... literally read in 2-3 days. Can't wait till the next one. 🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂
January 29, 2021
Another GREAT story❣
Tia Sirrah, ❤❤❤❤❤ I can not tell you how much I enjoyed this book. You write stories I can settle into and feel a part of. Please keep writing, and I promise to keep reading. I was reading another book and had to stop once I saw your book was out. I love that you tackle taboo or difficult storylines without trashing the characters. These are beautifully flawed people. I highly recommend this author and this her latest book.
Tia Sirrah, ❤❤❤❤❤ I can not tell you how much I enjoyed this book. You write stories I can settle into and feel a part of. Please keep writing, and I promise to keep reading. I was reading another book and had to stop once I saw your book was out. I love that you tackle taboo or difficult storylines without trashing the characters. These are beautifully flawed people. I highly recommend this author and this her latest book.
October 15, 2024
Great book!
I really enjoyed this story, and the characters were very entertaining and believable. I loved the chemistry between Ari and Luca it was smoking hot 🔥! Dean was a trip that should have received some consequences for his actions. Lizzie was a true woman scorned that felt like she could make a man love her. I highly recommend this book to my fellow romance readers. You will not be disappointed.
I really enjoyed this story, and the characters were very entertaining and believable. I loved the chemistry between Ari and Luca it was smoking hot 🔥! Dean was a trip that should have received some consequences for his actions. Lizzie was a true woman scorned that felt like she could make a man love her. I highly recommend this book to my fellow romance readers. You will not be disappointed.
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