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Behind Closed Doors #1
We Tell Lies
Everyone wants to be on TV until you’re the top news headline for months after being abducted by a serial killer.
But that’s in the past, and all I want to do is to move on. I’ve done everything I can to forget my past, but it seems like the past isn’t ready to forget me. With my older sister in need of some long-term help, I have no choice but to go back home to the place where everything went wrong before.
What should’ve been only mildly painful has turned into a full-blown nightmare when I step back into Ashwick, Indiana and am welcomed home by a murder and words painted in red for me to see.
WELCOME HOME, PARKER.
Something’s really wrong here, perhaps more than I’d ever thought there was. Someone is hunting me, intent on a past I want so badly to forget. But maybe I was never supposed to forget in the first place. And with a man I thought I knew well and another that I’ve never met both unwilling to let me go, I’m unsure if I’ll make it out again. They may be…convincing, for lack of a better word, but they aren’t telling me the truth. No matter how they try to distract me from their lies.
And this time, those lies might really be the death of me.
AUTHORS NOTE
WE TELL LIES is a MMF dark romance. It features MM and MFM scenes, along with graphic violence and killing. It is the first in a three book series.
But that’s in the past, and all I want to do is to move on. I’ve done everything I can to forget my past, but it seems like the past isn’t ready to forget me. With my older sister in need of some long-term help, I have no choice but to go back home to the place where everything went wrong before.
What should’ve been only mildly painful has turned into a full-blown nightmare when I step back into Ashwick, Indiana and am welcomed home by a murder and words painted in red for me to see.
WELCOME HOME, PARKER.
Something’s really wrong here, perhaps more than I’d ever thought there was. Someone is hunting me, intent on a past I want so badly to forget. But maybe I was never supposed to forget in the first place. And with a man I thought I knew well and another that I’ve never met both unwilling to let me go, I’m unsure if I’ll make it out again. They may be…convincing, for lack of a better word, but they aren’t telling me the truth. No matter how they try to distract me from their lies.
And this time, those lies might really be the death of me.
AUTHORS NOTE
WE TELL LIES is a MMF dark romance. It features MM and MFM scenes, along with graphic violence and killing. It is the first in a three book series.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 29, 2021
362 people are currently reading
1028 people want to read
About the author
A.J. Merlin
44 books2,060 followersAJ Merlin would rather write epic love stories than live them. I mean, who wants to limit themselves to only falling in love once? She is obsessed with dark fantasy, true crime, and also dogs. From serial killers to voyeurs all the way down to the devil himself, AJ's specialty is in writing irredeemable heroes who somehow still manage to captivate their heroines (and her readers).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
May 5, 2022
The premise of the book was very intriguing and maybe it's because I expected a lot more from it, but i was disappointed it didn't match my expectations. I might have 𝐉𝐈𝐍𝐗𝐄𝐃 myself here.
]|I{•-----⋘⋙--------•⪼⦕࿅⦖⪻•--------⋘⋙-----•}I|[
The characters were very interesting but we didn't really have a lot of information on them for me to connect with them in any way. Maybe if it was a story with multiple 𝐏𝐎𝐕, than at least we would have had more to go on with. Plus let's be honest here the guys had so much more chemistry together then they had with her. I actually felt like they didn't connect with her at all, and the fact that everytime they were physical in any way she wasn't there just added to it. Sooo yeah take that as you will...
Because there was a lot of potential, I'm a fan of everything dark and smutty and i wanted more of that. The story was Overall 𝐍𝐎𝐓 bad but it could've been 𝐖𝐀𝐘 better. I'll probably still read the next book, hoping we'll have more of the dark and smut that was promised here.
]|I{•-----⋘⋙--------•⪼⦕࿅⦖⪻•--------⋘⋙-----•}I|[
The characters were very interesting but we didn't really have a lot of information on them for me to connect with them in any way. Maybe if it was a story with multiple 𝐏𝐎𝐕, than at least we would have had more to go on with. Plus let's be honest here the guys had so much more chemistry together then they had with her. I actually felt like they didn't connect with her at all, and the fact that everytime they were physical in any way she wasn't there just added to it. Sooo yeah take that as you will...
Because there was a lot of potential, I'm a fan of everything dark and smutty and i wanted more of that. The story was Overall 𝐍𝐎𝐓 bad but it could've been 𝐖𝐀𝐘 better. I'll probably still read the next book, hoping we'll have more of the dark and smut that was promised here.
December 2, 2021
This will be my 2nd Merlin book, ooh looks killer 😉!
Oh fuck, I just completed this. It answered some questions but left us with so many...I can't wait for the next one! RTC.
Oh fuck, I just completed this. It answered some questions but left us with so many...I can't wait for the next one! RTC.
May 10, 2023
I'm never really a fan of childhood friends to lovers but I also... I just kind of wanted her to dump them both and make them grovel for her attention. For like absolutely no reason 😂
November 29, 2021
I really enjoyed AJ Merlin’s Playing With Knives and I had high hopes for We Tell Lies. Unfortunately, while this book was a good read, it didn’t quite live up to the awesomeness of its predecessor. I think there’s a very good reason for that.
We Tell Lies is the story of Parker and her return to the small town where she grew up. The small town where, at the age of 10 years old, she was kidnapped by a serial killer after her best friend, Everett, was nearly killed by him. In the years since Parker left for college, she has distanced herself from Everett, feeling a misplaced sense of guilt over his near-death experience.
Despite their shared trauma and Parker’s misconceptions, they soon slip back into the playful banter of best friends calling each other out on their bull and taunting each other with the truth. It’s one of those relationships where, if you’d seen them in their younger years, you’d always have known they’d get together.
The depth of Parker’s character comes from the residual effects of her trauma and the drive to uncover the truth about her past and the events that plague Ashwick. But, if I’m honest, without that traumatic experience, she would likely be just another small-town girl.
Everett isn’t much better. Sure, he’s a man dressed as a god and incredibly sweet, but it feels like he hasn’t yet grown into the person he’s supposed to be. In contrast, Kayn is a fascinating man, with facets I’m sure we’ve yet to discover. When you find out the type of person he is (I’m trying very hard not to drop spoilers here) you realise that he doesn’t fit into a traditional mould. You can see character traits that are begging to be explored and I found myself clutching my fists in anticipation of such things.
I find myself being drawn back to Parker, probably because the story is told from her point of view. Her actions frustrated me and there were multiple moments when I wanted to scream at her to not be so stupid. She truly is a final girl and damned lucky that a killer didn’t take her out during the course of the book. I hope Everett and Kayn do a bang-up job of protecting her because she hasn’t got a shred of survival instinct within her.
This book felt like an epic tease, although some may call it a slow burn. From the moment of Parker and Everett’s first kiss, Merlin hinted at the notion of a steamy scene and then continued to increase the tension until I was sure it would be found on the next page. Spoiler: I had to wait until chapter 17! While it certainly was a hot read, it was entirely too vanilla for my liking and definitely not the MFM the blurb promised.
In fact, Merlin chose to resume her teasing after that moment, and while there are some decidedly sweltering moments, the whole book left me wanting more. I’m still waiting for that explosive event that I know Merlin is capable of writing.
It may sound like I didn’t enjoy the book but you’d be wrong. The premise of the story is unusual and mysterious. The characters have room for growth, which I hope to see over the course of the series. What I did feel is that I didn’t get enough, that I wanted more, that I’ve been left with half a story. I feel like I’ve put the book down halfway through because so few of the plot points have been resolved and there’s so much more to discover. But, you know what? That bodes well for book 2 because you can guarantee I’m gonna be there on release day ready to devour the next instalment.
WHY YOU SHOULD READ WE TELL LIES
* Kayn. Kayn. And Kayn. Seriously. I’m rather taken by that man.
* Uncover the story of Ashwick’s new killer.
* Scream at the final girl (come on, you know you love to!)
We Tell Lies is the story of Parker and her return to the small town where she grew up. The small town where, at the age of 10 years old, she was kidnapped by a serial killer after her best friend, Everett, was nearly killed by him. In the years since Parker left for college, she has distanced herself from Everett, feeling a misplaced sense of guilt over his near-death experience.
Despite their shared trauma and Parker’s misconceptions, they soon slip back into the playful banter of best friends calling each other out on their bull and taunting each other with the truth. It’s one of those relationships where, if you’d seen them in their younger years, you’d always have known they’d get together.
The depth of Parker’s character comes from the residual effects of her trauma and the drive to uncover the truth about her past and the events that plague Ashwick. But, if I’m honest, without that traumatic experience, she would likely be just another small-town girl.
Everett isn’t much better. Sure, he’s a man dressed as a god and incredibly sweet, but it feels like he hasn’t yet grown into the person he’s supposed to be. In contrast, Kayn is a fascinating man, with facets I’m sure we’ve yet to discover. When you find out the type of person he is (I’m trying very hard not to drop spoilers here) you realise that he doesn’t fit into a traditional mould. You can see character traits that are begging to be explored and I found myself clutching my fists in anticipation of such things.
I find myself being drawn back to Parker, probably because the story is told from her point of view. Her actions frustrated me and there were multiple moments when I wanted to scream at her to not be so stupid. She truly is a final girl and damned lucky that a killer didn’t take her out during the course of the book. I hope Everett and Kayn do a bang-up job of protecting her because she hasn’t got a shred of survival instinct within her.
This book felt like an epic tease, although some may call it a slow burn. From the moment of Parker and Everett’s first kiss, Merlin hinted at the notion of a steamy scene and then continued to increase the tension until I was sure it would be found on the next page. Spoiler: I had to wait until chapter 17! While it certainly was a hot read, it was entirely too vanilla for my liking and definitely not the MFM the blurb promised.
In fact, Merlin chose to resume her teasing after that moment, and while there are some decidedly sweltering moments, the whole book left me wanting more. I’m still waiting for that explosive event that I know Merlin is capable of writing.
It may sound like I didn’t enjoy the book but you’d be wrong. The premise of the story is unusual and mysterious. The characters have room for growth, which I hope to see over the course of the series. What I did feel is that I didn’t get enough, that I wanted more, that I’ve been left with half a story. I feel like I’ve put the book down halfway through because so few of the plot points have been resolved and there’s so much more to discover. But, you know what? That bodes well for book 2 because you can guarantee I’m gonna be there on release day ready to devour the next instalment.
WHY YOU SHOULD READ WE TELL LIES
* Kayn. Kayn. And Kayn. Seriously. I’m rather taken by that man.
* Uncover the story of Ashwick’s new killer.
* Scream at the final girl (come on, you know you love to!)
December 2, 2021
I think I prefer when the main character is the stalker rather than being stalked. Slow mystery that seems to heading towards small town cult. I liked Kayn, but Ev was a bit creepy. Two guys, m/m which is always nice. Felt like Ev and Kayn were already a couple. Will be interesting to see where this one goes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2022
2.5 ⭐ rounding up because I did really like the small town murder mystery feel, but there was a total lack of development for characters or relationships - I felt no connection with the characters or for them with each other - and the writing style feels like it slips into third person omniscient POV phrasing while it's told in first person POV by the FMC (no other POVs) which felt odd. I don't know if that's the author's usual style or this book. Plus the FMC reminded me of the girl in the horror movie that does dumb sh*t over and over and has me rooting for the SK cause she's not worthy of making it as final girl 🙄🙄🙈🤡
I did really enjoy the banter between the main characters during their early encounters. Unfortunately, the reunion with the best friend doesn't include any depth or build, it just happens and then it is.
This is a MMF with MM, MF, and MFM scenes. I found how their relationship dynamics came together a bit odd. Like in the first seggs scene with the best friend character, it starts with him talking about wanting to hook up with the other guy and being interested in sharing her.... I mean, I guess?? 🤷 I really enjoy menage but it felt weird to have her first time with one H be him talking about the other H. I think it could have worked better if Kayn had been the nucleus for their dynamic from the start, and if he'd been with Ev first. Or if their first time was group.
I can't even comment on the steam - there's on page but between the awkwardness and the lack of connection with the characters it just happens without me feeling it 🤷
I doubt I will be continuing onto the second book of this duet, though I'm curious about the mystery aspects and the secrets of the town.
I did really enjoy the banter between the main characters during their early encounters. Unfortunately, the reunion with the best friend doesn't include any depth or build, it just happens and then it is.
This is a MMF with MM, MF, and MFM scenes. I found how their relationship dynamics came together a bit odd. Like in the first seggs scene with the best friend character, it starts with him talking about wanting to hook up with the other guy and being interested in sharing her.... I mean, I guess?? 🤷 I really enjoy menage but it felt weird to have her first time with one H be him talking about the other H. I think it could have worked better if Kayn had been the nucleus for their dynamic from the start, and if he'd been with Ev first. Or if their first time was group.
I can't even comment on the steam - there's on page but between the awkwardness and the lack of connection with the characters it just happens without me feeling it 🤷
I doubt I will be continuing onto the second book of this duet, though I'm curious about the mystery aspects and the secrets of the town.
January 11, 2022
This book was so predictable and the MC made my head hurt. I almost didn't finish it and had to come back to it several times before I could finish it. Parker (the MC) doesn't want to come home due to her traumatic past. Then a murder happens and her car is vandalized and the killer contacts her right as she's outside of a police station. And her brother in law is a cop. So what does she do? Listen to the killer and not go back in and tell the cops! Seriously? At that point the MC deserves to die for her stupidity.
This book was so predictable. I could tell from the first encounter with the true killer that they were it. Which happens in the first 1/3 of the book.
Parker connects with her old BF Everett who forces her to confess why she ran away all those years ago. Then all is forgiven and they go on like nothing happened. But Parker knows nothing of this new Everett.
Warning! Major Spoiler ahead!
Then she gets kidnapped by Kayn who she finds out is a serial killer in his own right and she's just ok with this because she's attracted to him and he promises not to kill her. Like ok let's trust the serial killer.
This book is like that commerical that makes fun of all the stupid things ppl do in a horror movie like hide out behind the rack of knives and ignore the running car.
The characters were underdeveloped and there was very little meaningful interaction between them. Even the spicy scenes were a bit meh.
The only good and interesting thing about the book is that it's elluded that the entire town has secrets and that perhaps it a town full of killers and everyone covers for everyone.
This book was so predictable. I could tell from the first encounter with the true killer that they were it. Which happens in the first 1/3 of the book.
Parker connects with her old BF Everett who forces her to confess why she ran away all those years ago. Then all is forgiven and they go on like nothing happened. But Parker knows nothing of this new Everett.
Warning! Major Spoiler ahead!
Then she gets kidnapped by Kayn who she finds out is a serial killer in his own right and she's just ok with this because she's attracted to him and he promises not to kill her. Like ok let's trust the serial killer.
This book is like that commerical that makes fun of all the stupid things ppl do in a horror movie like hide out behind the rack of knives and ignore the running car.
The characters were underdeveloped and there was very little meaningful interaction between them. Even the spicy scenes were a bit meh.
The only good and interesting thing about the book is that it's elluded that the entire town has secrets and that perhaps it a town full of killers and everyone covers for everyone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2021
"We all have secrets, Parker. And I worry that you're not ready to hear all of mine."
Where to start?! I was NOT expecting the twist and turns that come 😅😂 bloody brilliant. Strangers, reporters, serial killers, broken sisters, stalkers, old friends and creepy cackling birds, nothing is as it seems in this town. I legit had my detective hat on ready to solve this case 😂 It kept me guessing throughout which i absolutely love but also hate 🤣🤣 when I read the blurb it said MMF. I was 45% through and couldnt work out for the life of me who the second love interest was!! I was sure the author had made a mistake hahaha... I was SO wrong 😅🥵😈 it was better than I imagined. I've not read much MM but damnnnn I'm here for it 🥵🙌🏻 towards the end I thought the flashbacks mixed in with current situations was so good!! I couldnt read the pages fast enough 😅😅 then it just ended!! Like, erm, excuse me?? That's not ok. Where is the rest? 🤨🤔😂 I'm so confused and still left with about 100 questions 😅... I really enjoyed this book, was totally different to what I've been reading lately. Was refreshingly good and deliciously hot 😜 and a tad creepy 😳🤫 what's not to love?!
Where to start?! I was NOT expecting the twist and turns that come 😅😂 bloody brilliant. Strangers, reporters, serial killers, broken sisters, stalkers, old friends and creepy cackling birds, nothing is as it seems in this town. I legit had my detective hat on ready to solve this case 😂 It kept me guessing throughout which i absolutely love but also hate 🤣🤣 when I read the blurb it said MMF. I was 45% through and couldnt work out for the life of me who the second love interest was!! I was sure the author had made a mistake hahaha... I was SO wrong 😅🥵😈 it was better than I imagined. I've not read much MM but damnnnn I'm here for it 🥵🙌🏻 towards the end I thought the flashbacks mixed in with current situations was so good!! I couldnt read the pages fast enough 😅😅 then it just ended!! Like, erm, excuse me?? That's not ok. Where is the rest? 🤨🤔😂 I'm so confused and still left with about 100 questions 😅... I really enjoyed this book, was totally different to what I've been reading lately. Was refreshingly good and deliciously hot 😜 and a tad creepy 😳🤫 what's not to love?!
December 14, 2021
We Tell Lies is the next in Merlin's exploration into the gray side of fiction. Like Playing With Knives the characters here flirt with darkness even though they haven't done a full deep dive.
Comparing the two is a hard job. We Tell Lies might be edging ahead for me because I like the mystery aspect of the stalker storyline, the cult questions, and I really love the fact that there will be more. Its predecessor was good, but it felt incomplete. This one has follow-ups already guaranteed, so I have faith that it'll be well-rounded out and what I want by the end.
Parker is an ordinary girl who's been stuck in some extraordinary circumstances, but I'm actually okay with that. Right now, the most unusual thing about her is the conflict that seems to revolve around her, and it's nice to just have a normal FMC. She doesn't need to be an "all-powerful" anything in order to be the focal point of the book, which, in my opinion, lets you focus more directly on the story.
The men are opposite sides of the coin, though one side might be hiding some sharp edges. Now, Kayn, he plays the game well, presenting a normal, charismatic face to the world, but when he doesn't have to put on a show, he's pretty up front about his enjoyment of blood, pain, and sharp objects. He likes control, and he's unafraid to show that to Parker. If you like the men who dance over that line of pleasurable dominance, he's definitely an intriguing option for you.
Everett, Parker's childhood best friend and sort of unrequited love, is a bit more of a mystery. He's got a bitch of a switch vibe going on for him, and he's most definitely extremely invested in Parker's well-being. The biggest question for Everett isn't whether he's hiding something, it's how much is he hiding? His character is intriguing because there are comments that show he's aware he's not showing Parker his true self. But I also wonder if there are darker bits below the surface that have just been waiting for the right environment to sneak out.
As a whole, I enjoyed this one. It kept my interest the whole time, and there's also plenty of M/M tension and on-page action to keep you satisfied if you enjoy that (which I do). The biggest caveat there is that the men are together without Parker being present, which she doesn't mind, but if you're not into that, then perhaps this is not for you. One of the big things I liked- about both this series and really Merlin's others- is that she doesn't make a huge deal out of s3xuality. Characters can just be-heterosexual, bisexual, monogamous, poly- and it's not a huge stumbling block where the character becomes an example or feels like forced representation. It's smooth, and the characters just feel like... people, which is exactly how it should feel.
Comparing the two is a hard job. We Tell Lies might be edging ahead for me because I like the mystery aspect of the stalker storyline, the cult questions, and I really love the fact that there will be more. Its predecessor was good, but it felt incomplete. This one has follow-ups already guaranteed, so I have faith that it'll be well-rounded out and what I want by the end.
Parker is an ordinary girl who's been stuck in some extraordinary circumstances, but I'm actually okay with that. Right now, the most unusual thing about her is the conflict that seems to revolve around her, and it's nice to just have a normal FMC. She doesn't need to be an "all-powerful" anything in order to be the focal point of the book, which, in my opinion, lets you focus more directly on the story.
The men are opposite sides of the coin, though one side might be hiding some sharp edges. Now, Kayn, he plays the game well, presenting a normal, charismatic face to the world, but when he doesn't have to put on a show, he's pretty up front about his enjoyment of blood, pain, and sharp objects. He likes control, and he's unafraid to show that to Parker. If you like the men who dance over that line of pleasurable dominance, he's definitely an intriguing option for you.
Everett, Parker's childhood best friend and sort of unrequited love, is a bit more of a mystery. He's got a bitch of a switch vibe going on for him, and he's most definitely extremely invested in Parker's well-being. The biggest question for Everett isn't whether he's hiding something, it's how much is he hiding? His character is intriguing because there are comments that show he's aware he's not showing Parker his true self. But I also wonder if there are darker bits below the surface that have just been waiting for the right environment to sneak out.
As a whole, I enjoyed this one. It kept my interest the whole time, and there's also plenty of M/M tension and on-page action to keep you satisfied if you enjoy that (which I do). The biggest caveat there is that the men are together without Parker being present, which she doesn't mind, but if you're not into that, then perhaps this is not for you. One of the big things I liked- about both this series and really Merlin's others- is that she doesn't make a huge deal out of s3xuality. Characters can just be-heterosexual, bisexual, monogamous, poly- and it's not a huge stumbling block where the character becomes an example or feels like forced representation. It's smooth, and the characters just feel like... people, which is exactly how it should feel.
September 27, 2024
Parker has done all she can to forget about her past, but with her older sister in need of long-term help after a tragedy, she has no choice but to go home. Whilst she expected her return to bring back the memories of the serial killer who kidnapped her over a decade ago, her trauma is dragged to the surface when she’s greeted by a murder and words painted in red: WELCOME HOME, PARKER. Yet, even as someone hunts Parker, determined to dig up the past she’s tried so hard to forget, her childhood best friend and a new acquaintance in Ashwick combine forces to convince her to stay. Although the two men are doing their level best to keep Parker, she can sense that they aren’t telling the whole truth—and she can’t help but fear that their lies might just be the death of her this time.
The first part in a duology, We Tell Lies lays the foundations for what appears to be a complex, decades long mystery revolving around the small town of Ashwick, Indiana. Dark, suspenseful, and edged with danger, the story has all the best vibes for kicking off spooky season in style. Throw in a spicy, why-choose romance between FMC Parker and MMCs Everett and Kayn, and I was hooked. As I’ve come to expect with AJ Merlin, the MMCs are morally grey-to-black and waving a few strong red flags, yet they’re considerate and compassionate in ways that make me wonder juuuust a little bit about which direction my moral compass would point if I was in Parker’s shoes. I’m looking forward to seeing how the rest of the story and the developing romance between the three MCs unfolds in book two, We Keep Secrets.
The first part in a duology, We Tell Lies lays the foundations for what appears to be a complex, decades long mystery revolving around the small town of Ashwick, Indiana. Dark, suspenseful, and edged with danger, the story has all the best vibes for kicking off spooky season in style. Throw in a spicy, why-choose romance between FMC Parker and MMCs Everett and Kayn, and I was hooked. As I’ve come to expect with AJ Merlin, the MMCs are morally grey-to-black and waving a few strong red flags, yet they’re considerate and compassionate in ways that make me wonder juuuust a little bit about which direction my moral compass would point if I was in Parker’s shoes. I’m looking forward to seeing how the rest of the story and the developing romance between the three MCs unfolds in book two, We Keep Secrets.
November 30, 2021
I got hooked on @ajmerlinauthor after I read Playing with Knives.⠀So to get to ARC this new book was a dream.⠀I had already preordered it so I was like OMG Im so excited!!!
Parker come home to hel her sister process and push on after losing her baby.⠀Parker is not well received by everyone in her hometown.⠀She is being targeted by someone(s) and they painted her car in red WELCOME HOME PARKER.⠀She is continuously called the wrong name ever after telling people what she now goes by.
Her childhood bff/crush welcomes her back easily but he seems to have secrets of his own he is not willing to share.⠀He says he is willing to do anything to protect Parker but what if he is who she needs protection from?? Then we meet a sexy reporter who is all kinds of secretive and Parker knows she shouldnt enjoy him but she certainly does.
The story had me hook from the first few pages. I want to know who is behind the murders, what is going on in the Quarry, what really happened to the butcher, and for God sakes what is in the shed and basement??
Book 2 can come out anytime now lol I am ready for it.
storyline 🐙🐙🐙🐙🐙
Spice 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
#reverseharembooks #reverseharemromance #steamyreads #steamybooks #bookboyfriends #bookstagram #bookish #bookstagrammer #romancebookstagram #rhbooks #whychooseromance #spicybook #spicyreads #kindleunlimited #newrelease #preorder #booklover #bookreview #bookworm
#lostinpages #indieauthors #openthempages #darkromance #whychoose #paperbackmomma
Parker come home to hel her sister process and push on after losing her baby.⠀Parker is not well received by everyone in her hometown.⠀She is being targeted by someone(s) and they painted her car in red WELCOME HOME PARKER.⠀She is continuously called the wrong name ever after telling people what she now goes by.
Her childhood bff/crush welcomes her back easily but he seems to have secrets of his own he is not willing to share.⠀He says he is willing to do anything to protect Parker but what if he is who she needs protection from?? Then we meet a sexy reporter who is all kinds of secretive and Parker knows she shouldnt enjoy him but she certainly does.
The story had me hook from the first few pages. I want to know who is behind the murders, what is going on in the Quarry, what really happened to the butcher, and for God sakes what is in the shed and basement??
Book 2 can come out anytime now lol I am ready for it.
storyline 🐙🐙🐙🐙🐙
Spice 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
#reverseharembooks #reverseharemromance #steamyreads #steamybooks #bookboyfriends #bookstagram #bookish #bookstagrammer #romancebookstagram #rhbooks #whychooseromance #spicybook #spicyreads #kindleunlimited #newrelease #preorder #booklover #bookreview #bookworm
#lostinpages #indieauthors #openthempages #darkromance #whychoose #paperbackmomma
January 26, 2022
Small Town with Dark Secrets
I think the book is a 3.5 Star rating. The plot was good, and I liked how Parker's past slowly unfolded and she started remembering things. If you come for any of the spice or romance, that really doesn't start until 68% of the way in, you've been warned. I thought Kayn's character was interesting, but I really wanted to learn more about Everett and how Parker doesn't even seem to be phased by all the stuff she is finding out about her best friend from forever. Also, the spicy scenes were not my favorite because ...
Trigger /spoiler
Unless it is discussed PRIOR to happening, waking up someone from sleep with seggsual activities that's she has never done or okayed with you before... not cool, and very much a no. Also, same boat, if she says stop and you haven't had a discussion prior to what a safe word is or a way to tap out if it is too much, stop means stop. Just because the men say that they "know" she would like it... ABSOLUTELY NOT! Unless a person says she likes it or confirms before doing it, you do not assume, especially with darker motifs. Safe and consensual!
I think the book is a 3.5 Star rating. The plot was good, and I liked how Parker's past slowly unfolded and she started remembering things. If you come for any of the spice or romance, that really doesn't start until 68% of the way in, you've been warned. I thought Kayn's character was interesting, but I really wanted to learn more about Everett and how Parker doesn't even seem to be phased by all the stuff she is finding out about her best friend from forever. Also, the spicy scenes were not my favorite because ...
Trigger /spoiler
Unless it is discussed PRIOR to happening, waking up someone from sleep with seggsual activities that's she has never done or okayed with you before... not cool, and very much a no. Also, same boat, if she says stop and you haven't had a discussion prior to what a safe word is or a way to tap out if it is too much, stop means stop. Just because the men say that they "know" she would like it... ABSOLUTELY NOT! Unless a person says she likes it or confirms before doing it, you do not assume, especially with darker motifs. Safe and consensual!
July 6, 2025
As a huge fan of A.J. Merlin's work, I'm on a mission to read everything she's ever written, so you can imagine my excitement when I discovered she had another dark romance series! I devoured We Tell Lies and then immediately dove into We Keep Secrets the very next day.
For me, We Tell Lies landed a solid 4 out of 5 stars!
AJ Merlin consistently delivers that fantastic small-town vibe, and this book was no exception. There's a unique strangeness that permeates her settings, and it's something I always look forward to. The characters in this world are delightfully eccentric, keeping you on your toes and constantly questioning who you can truly trust.
Parker, our FMC, was a fantastic lead, and the two MMCs? Absolutely swoon-worthy in that deliciously dark romance way. The overall plot and story were thoroughly enjoyable, pulling me in from the start. My only minor quirks were feeling a little out of the loop on certain events and their motivations, and the ending of the first book left a few threads untied for my personal preference. However, these were minor points in what was otherwise a truly great story!
If you're looking for a dark romance with a quirky small-town setting and characters you can't quite figure out, definitely pick this one up!
For me, We Tell Lies landed a solid 4 out of 5 stars!
AJ Merlin consistently delivers that fantastic small-town vibe, and this book was no exception. There's a unique strangeness that permeates her settings, and it's something I always look forward to. The characters in this world are delightfully eccentric, keeping you on your toes and constantly questioning who you can truly trust.
Parker, our FMC, was a fantastic lead, and the two MMCs? Absolutely swoon-worthy in that deliciously dark romance way. The overall plot and story were thoroughly enjoyable, pulling me in from the start. My only minor quirks were feeling a little out of the loop on certain events and their motivations, and the ending of the first book left a few threads untied for my personal preference. However, these were minor points in what was otherwise a truly great story!
If you're looking for a dark romance with a quirky small-town setting and characters you can't quite figure out, definitely pick this one up!
December 1, 2021
Having picked up Ms.Merlin's work for the first time recently i've been looking so forward to picking up another book of hers! As soon as i read the synopsis for this one i knew i had to pick it up next! I got into the Behind Closed Doors world as soon as i could. I so enjoyed this first book!
This first book in Parker's journey hooked me right from the prologue! I wasn't sure what all to expect in this story which pulled me in with every page turn and had me glued to my kindle even more! I so enjoyed what Everett and Kayn brought to the story. I loved how i went through many emotions throughout reading with these characters.
I really liked the uniqueness of this story as well!
With We Tell Lies, Ms.Merlin has created a great read that will be sure to hook you quickly! I can't wait for more! I'll be counting down the days until the second installment, We Keep Secrets releases!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Affinity Author Services / the author*
This first book in Parker's journey hooked me right from the prologue! I wasn't sure what all to expect in this story which pulled me in with every page turn and had me glued to my kindle even more! I so enjoyed what Everett and Kayn brought to the story. I loved how i went through many emotions throughout reading with these characters.
I really liked the uniqueness of this story as well!
With We Tell Lies, Ms.Merlin has created a great read that will be sure to hook you quickly! I can't wait for more! I'll be counting down the days until the second installment, We Keep Secrets releases!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Affinity Author Services / the author*
February 12, 2025
2.5/5⭐️
2.5/5🌶️
- this book was all over the place this is long lost trauma bonded friends to lovers plus and added psychopath serial killer boyfriend who randomly comes into town in order to find a friend of his who is also found of the main character Parker when his friend dies he decides to stick around to find who else is after Parker.... bro idk whats going on im just as confused as you.. the beginning was good we saw the relationship between Everette and Parker grow, but when Kayln an older guy falls into the picture the dynamic is just messy.. the story line isn't very organized and was often confusing, and for a throuple the smut was boring and very limited...
2.5/5🌶️
- this book was all over the place this is long lost trauma bonded friends to lovers plus and added psychopath serial killer boyfriend who randomly comes into town in order to find a friend of his who is also found of the main character Parker when his friend dies he decides to stick around to find who else is after Parker.... bro idk whats going on im just as confused as you.. the beginning was good we saw the relationship between Everette and Parker grow, but when Kayln an older guy falls into the picture the dynamic is just messy.. the story line isn't very organized and was often confusing, and for a throuple the smut was boring and very limited...
November 30, 2021
Okay I can’t lie this isn’t usually my go to genre! I’m such a scaredy-cat. This book was so good and detailed. It had me looking over my shoulder and wondering if I was being followed. We Tell Lies follows Parker who survived a traumatic incident as a child but she never got past it. Day in and day out she had to live with what happened. She has a permanent reminder every time she looks in the mirror. Coming back to the town that started it all, she thought things were going to be different.
Only deep down she knew that it wasn’t. Meeting up with her childhood best friend, things started to fall into place just a little. But then it was all back to square one. Ghosts from her past appearing to her.
I didn’t even mind the fact that this book was a slow burn- well to a point. I swear I questioned everyone in this book. I broke out my criminal minds thinking trying to decipher every little clue! In the end the main person I had my suspicions about came up to be exactly what I thought.
But that ending!!! Holy fuck!
I need book two now!!!!
Only deep down she knew that it wasn’t. Meeting up with her childhood best friend, things started to fall into place just a little. But then it was all back to square one. Ghosts from her past appearing to her.
I didn’t even mind the fact that this book was a slow burn- well to a point. I swear I questioned everyone in this book. I broke out my criminal minds thinking trying to decipher every little clue! In the end the main person I had my suspicions about came up to be exactly what I thought.
But that ending!!! Holy fuck!
I need book two now!!!!
Read
April 2, 2022I'm giving up on this at 35% It's probably a me issue. Something doesn't work for me and I find that it had many unnecessary descriptions and inner monologue. I don't need to know how she walked from the pavement to her car or wherever else she was going ( I don't even remember)
Another thing that's making difficult for me to finish this is that it's supposed to be MMF yet 35% into the book all we have is just the FMC's POV and we just had a glimpse of the second guy. It's just to slow for me.
Another thing that's making difficult for me to finish this is that it's supposed to be MMF yet 35% into the book all we have is just the FMC's POV and we just had a glimpse of the second guy. It's just to slow for me.
May 1, 2023
Holy smokes!
Well that was intense! So an awesome beginning of a duet, I am so freaking intrigued and can't wait to see what happens next!
Well that was intense! So an awesome beginning of a duet, I am so freaking intrigued and can't wait to see what happens next!
December 8, 2021
Parker is back in her hometown to help her sister after the loss of her daughter. Reconnecting with her best friend Everett has proven there's a little more than friendship, but secrets are starting to come out about this town, and Parker is forced to figure out what is happening.
From start to finish, this book had my interest. The plotline is a murder mystery, mixed with some very steamy scenes. Everett and Parker meet with Kayn and that leads into an interesting dynamic within their group, and much more interesting steamy scenes.
The ending absolutely killed me, since you're left on one of the biggest cliffhangers there is! But this just means book two will be even better and help us figure out what's going on in this little town.
The author provided a copy. This is my honest review.
From start to finish, this book had my interest. The plotline is a murder mystery, mixed with some very steamy scenes. Everett and Parker meet with Kayn and that leads into an interesting dynamic within their group, and much more interesting steamy scenes.
The ending absolutely killed me, since you're left on one of the biggest cliffhangers there is! But this just means book two will be even better and help us figure out what's going on in this little town.
The author provided a copy. This is my honest review.
December 7, 2021
We Tell Lies is a captivating read filled with twists and turns, intriguing mysteries, sexy men with a taste of danger and darkness and a brave heroine that has survived more than her fair share of trauma…and who will need all her strength to survive even more. Needless to say, AJ Merlin hit it out of the park with this first book in the Behind Closed Doors series! This story hooks you in right from the start, and never lets you go as it’s just one mystery right after another! Who do you trust in a town full of mysteries and secrets? Are the people surrounding you friends or foes? Is everything that you thought you knew just lies?!? And most importantly…will you survive?
This story starts us off with Parker, our FMC who survived the unthinkable as a child—being kidnapped by a serial killer and actually surviving. While she wanted nothing more than to forever leave the past behind, including the strange small town that she grew up in, she quickly finds herself being called back home to help out her sister. But of course her homecoming can’t be easy with a past like hers…and she soon finds herself once again drawn into a world full of deceit, murder, drama, secrets galore, friends that may know more than they seem to and a stalker that haunts her every step.
From rekindling a friendship with her childhood bff, Everett, and making new connections with the mysterious reporter Kayn, Parker soon finds herself reliving her past and struggling to find answers she never knew she needed and discoveries involving her town that may have been better off buried. As she finds herself drawn to these two men, even with their secrets and hinted at darkness, she can’t help but be intrigued by the danger as she finds herself craving only what they can give her. And when they finally do come together? Holy hotness!!! Be prepared for some hot and steamy scenes that will leave your panting for more!
Overall this is a book filled with deadly secrets and treacherous lies that will rock the foundation of all that Parker, and you has a reader, knows. This story is so cleverly written that it will have you questioning everything you thought you knew and doubting and questioning every character that you meet along the way. Who can you actually trust in a town shrouded with lies and mysteries?!? And that ending?!? I need more! I need answers! And I need them now 😂
This story starts us off with Parker, our FMC who survived the unthinkable as a child—being kidnapped by a serial killer and actually surviving. While she wanted nothing more than to forever leave the past behind, including the strange small town that she grew up in, she quickly finds herself being called back home to help out her sister. But of course her homecoming can’t be easy with a past like hers…and she soon finds herself once again drawn into a world full of deceit, murder, drama, secrets galore, friends that may know more than they seem to and a stalker that haunts her every step.
From rekindling a friendship with her childhood bff, Everett, and making new connections with the mysterious reporter Kayn, Parker soon finds herself reliving her past and struggling to find answers she never knew she needed and discoveries involving her town that may have been better off buried. As she finds herself drawn to these two men, even with their secrets and hinted at darkness, she can’t help but be intrigued by the danger as she finds herself craving only what they can give her. And when they finally do come together? Holy hotness!!! Be prepared for some hot and steamy scenes that will leave your panting for more!
Overall this is a book filled with deadly secrets and treacherous lies that will rock the foundation of all that Parker, and you has a reader, knows. This story is so cleverly written that it will have you questioning everything you thought you knew and doubting and questioning every character that you meet along the way. Who can you actually trust in a town shrouded with lies and mysteries?!? And that ending?!? I need more! I need answers! And I need them now 😂
August 16, 2024
2.5 Stars
I honestly couldn't tell you a thing about this book - I couldn't get past how at least 5 words per page (I counted) are italicized. Not even joking. I was contemplating writing my review in all italics, but after reading this book my brain is broken.
This book had great potential, and while I enjoyed parts of the story, I did skip ahead and around a lot simply because of the italics. Legitimately.
I honestly couldn't tell you a thing about this book - I couldn't get past how at least 5 words per page (I counted) are italicized. Not even joking. I was contemplating writing my review in all italics, but after reading this book my brain is broken.
This book had great potential, and while I enjoyed parts of the story, I did skip ahead and around a lot simply because of the italics. Legitimately.
May 25, 2023
Same Story, Different Title
Honestly I've read maybe 3-4 other books by AJ, and this book was exactly what I expected. I don't consider AJ's books romances because there really is no romance. This book like the others that I've read involve superficial relationships based on the shared love of kinky s*x. That's it. And somehow AJ makes people believe it's a love story.
Parker was like the the character from a horror movie franchise who survived the 1st movie but was killed off in the next. She didn't die in this book of course, but like AJ's other heroines, she had no sense of self preservation. She sees an alley...she goes down it...her car gets vandalized... she doesn't tell the authorities...she gets strange phone calls...she decides to investigate a cave rumored to be a murder site. Parker was just so dumb for someone who survived a killer once. Also she seemed so oblivious to everything around her and how strange her town was, & never questioned anything or the people around her. Her best friend Everette is a Clear red flag but she ignored everything weird because he was attractive. In fact, my biggest pet peeve about AJ's books is that no matter how terrible the male characters are or what they do, the heroines don't even care because the men are so drop dead gorgeous. That's ridiculous to me personally. Parker wasn't even on good terms with the second male lead, Kain, because of the bad things he did to her, but all that was forgotten because again she can't resist his looks and the way he touches her. AJ provides absolutely no relationship build up in her books. It's they meet...oh you're bad, that's ok...s*x...and then a possessive "love"...every single time.
Another problem I had with this book is AJ kept referring to Everette as the brunette. The brunette did this. The brunette did that. If there are only Parker ad Ev in a room, and he's someone the reader knows, just use his name. And AJ used this same description to refer to a reporter.
I can't even be disappointed with this book because I keep reading AJ's books hoping things will change (I must be a glutton for punishment) but it's the same story every time. She has killer males who enjoy choking and rough s*x and weak women who suffer from memory block and or some trauma, who also like rough s*x, even if that means with her kidnapper or stalker. To be clear, it's a book, so I don't expect everything to be realistic and the mystery portion of this book was interesting (though I guessed the killer), but that doesn't mean EVERY heroine she writes about has to easily, jump in feet first, in every dangerous situation just because a guy is attractive. It's just TOO unrealistic.
Honestly I've read maybe 3-4 other books by AJ, and this book was exactly what I expected. I don't consider AJ's books romances because there really is no romance. This book like the others that I've read involve superficial relationships based on the shared love of kinky s*x. That's it. And somehow AJ makes people believe it's a love story.
Parker was like the the character from a horror movie franchise who survived the 1st movie but was killed off in the next. She didn't die in this book of course, but like AJ's other heroines, she had no sense of self preservation. She sees an alley...she goes down it...her car gets vandalized... she doesn't tell the authorities...she gets strange phone calls...she decides to investigate a cave rumored to be a murder site. Parker was just so dumb for someone who survived a killer once. Also she seemed so oblivious to everything around her and how strange her town was, & never questioned anything or the people around her. Her best friend Everette is a Clear red flag but she ignored everything weird because he was attractive. In fact, my biggest pet peeve about AJ's books is that no matter how terrible the male characters are or what they do, the heroines don't even care because the men are so drop dead gorgeous. That's ridiculous to me personally. Parker wasn't even on good terms with the second male lead, Kain, because of the bad things he did to her, but all that was forgotten because again she can't resist his looks and the way he touches her. AJ provides absolutely no relationship build up in her books. It's they meet...oh you're bad, that's ok...s*x...and then a possessive "love"...every single time.
Another problem I had with this book is AJ kept referring to Everette as the brunette. The brunette did this. The brunette did that. If there are only Parker ad Ev in a room, and he's someone the reader knows, just use his name. And AJ used this same description to refer to a reporter.
I can't even be disappointed with this book because I keep reading AJ's books hoping things will change (I must be a glutton for punishment) but it's the same story every time. She has killer males who enjoy choking and rough s*x and weak women who suffer from memory block and or some trauma, who also like rough s*x, even if that means with her kidnapper or stalker. To be clear, it's a book, so I don't expect everything to be realistic and the mystery portion of this book was interesting (though I guessed the killer), but that doesn't mean EVERY heroine she writes about has to easily, jump in feet first, in every dangerous situation just because a guy is attractive. It's just TOO unrealistic.
November 30, 2021
I kissed a serial killer and I liked it!!!
AJ Merlin has this knack. I can’t explain it. This is the second book I've read by her and she really takes me to another world with them. I go in with expectations that are not only met but surpassed.
Parker, PKA Hadley, has tried hard to separate herself from a nightmare that occurred in her childhood. But now her sister needs her and so she’s determined to go back home and be there for her sister. She reconnected with her childhood BFF, Ev and their connection and banter are amazing, such chemistry between the two. But her paranoia from her past is now reality. Someone is watching her.
Ev, left behind when Parker decided to move on with her life, welcomes her as if nothing happened. After a few apologies, they are back to where they were before she left. But she needs to be protected, can he help her and save her?
Kayn, this dude. He plugs himself into both Parker and Ev’s lives and you really wonder what his motives are. Is here there to help them or hurt them more?
The story had some moments that I had to re-read only b/c I may have missed something or maybe it wasn’t explained thoroughly. I am not 100% sure. Also, the overuse of calling Ev, brunette, kept taking me out of the story, not sure why, maybe the repetition or maybe b/c it's more of a term I connect to the female character and not the male. Other minor issues that may have been editing wise or personal choice so I rated it 4.5 rounding to 5 because, I can’t lie the story pulled me in immediately and I just love a good suspense story.
Oh and the whole spice portion of it I did not expect. So that was just a lovely little treat I feel AJ threw in to take the story to another level. It’s like reading your favorite mystery author who sets your pages aflame!!!
And let’s not forget the supporting characters, they really lent a lot to the story.
Overall, loved the story and can’t wait to see how it goes in the next installment.
AJ Merlin has this knack. I can’t explain it. This is the second book I've read by her and she really takes me to another world with them. I go in with expectations that are not only met but surpassed.
Parker, PKA Hadley, has tried hard to separate herself from a nightmare that occurred in her childhood. But now her sister needs her and so she’s determined to go back home and be there for her sister. She reconnected with her childhood BFF, Ev and their connection and banter are amazing, such chemistry between the two. But her paranoia from her past is now reality. Someone is watching her.
Ev, left behind when Parker decided to move on with her life, welcomes her as if nothing happened. After a few apologies, they are back to where they were before she left. But she needs to be protected, can he help her and save her?
Kayn, this dude. He plugs himself into both Parker and Ev’s lives and you really wonder what his motives are. Is here there to help them or hurt them more?
The story had some moments that I had to re-read only b/c I may have missed something or maybe it wasn’t explained thoroughly. I am not 100% sure. Also, the overuse of calling Ev, brunette, kept taking me out of the story, not sure why, maybe the repetition or maybe b/c it's more of a term I connect to the female character and not the male. Other minor issues that may have been editing wise or personal choice so I rated it 4.5 rounding to 5 because, I can’t lie the story pulled me in immediately and I just love a good suspense story.
Oh and the whole spice portion of it I did not expect. So that was just a lovely little treat I feel AJ threw in to take the story to another level. It’s like reading your favorite mystery author who sets your pages aflame!!!
And let’s not forget the supporting characters, they really lent a lot to the story.
Overall, loved the story and can’t wait to see how it goes in the next installment.
January 14, 2026
unsatisfying in all but one way
Overall this was a pretty lackluster beginning and relationships are underdeveloped and feel very meh. Meh spice level meh romance. Not enough individual scenes to establish anything even with the supposed primary couple. This leads to being underinvested. Barely even concerned for the MFC — like she’s just sort of there. I don’t know.
Spoilers below.
1/5 spice 1/5 romance 4/5 mystery
1 intimate scene with MFC and MMC then some kisses with secondary MMC by page 295. 1 additional scene there.
Almost the entire book to make any progress? In the relationships between the three.
Relationship between MMC 1 & 2 seems much more established than the supposed childhood best friends turn lovers.
MFC feels secondary to that relationship (even though it’s supposed to be new and the MFC and MMC just barely moved into a more than friends relationship after being separated for 5 years. Low heat? Low spice between them? Almost unbelievable swap from friends to lovers.
Definitely more a mystery than a dark romance so far as romance is 1/10 atm.
All the relationships feel very surface and underdeveloped for basically an entire book 1 of 2.
First time I’ve been dissatisfied with one of this authors books. Even the main childhood best friend relationship gets almost 0 time on page to develop and he claims to have been waiting for her but he’s also admitted to being very very active with both men and women so… who was waiting for who?
Very confused. So we have 1 barely established couple(MFC MMC) , 1 questionably established couple (MMC and 2nd MMC by end of book) and the throuple is like… thrown around as a concept but really doesn’t happen in this book? No big plot twist or surprise either by the end of book 1. I hope book 2 is better.
Overall this was a pretty lackluster beginning and relationships are underdeveloped and feel very meh. Meh spice level meh romance. Not enough individual scenes to establish anything even with the supposed primary couple. This leads to being underinvested. Barely even concerned for the MFC — like she’s just sort of there. I don’t know.
Spoilers below.
1/5 spice 1/5 romance 4/5 mystery
1 intimate scene with MFC and MMC then some kisses with secondary MMC by page 295. 1 additional scene there.
Almost the entire book to make any progress? In the relationships between the three.
Relationship between MMC 1 & 2 seems much more established than the supposed childhood best friends turn lovers.
MFC feels secondary to that relationship (even though it’s supposed to be new and the MFC and MMC just barely moved into a more than friends relationship after being separated for 5 years. Low heat? Low spice between them? Almost unbelievable swap from friends to lovers.
Definitely more a mystery than a dark romance so far as romance is 1/10 atm.
All the relationships feel very surface and underdeveloped for basically an entire book 1 of 2.
First time I’ve been dissatisfied with one of this authors books. Even the main childhood best friend relationship gets almost 0 time on page to develop and he claims to have been waiting for her but he’s also admitted to being very very active with both men and women so… who was waiting for who?
Very confused. So we have 1 barely established couple(MFC MMC) , 1 questionably established couple (MMC and 2nd MMC by end of book) and the throuple is like… thrown around as a concept but really doesn’t happen in this book? No big plot twist or surprise either by the end of book 1. I hope book 2 is better.
November 29, 2021
꧁✿☾✩♡ⒸⒽⓁⓄⒺ'Ⓢ ⓇⒺⓋⒾⒺⓌⓈ♡✩☽✿꧂
You will like this book if you enjoy:
♡IT vibes, super shady and sinister towns
♡MMF dark romance
♡MM and MFM scenes
♡Sexy Serial killer
This book was absolutely f***ed up! I was honestly scared at some points and looked over my shoulder to see if anyone was watching, there are some seriously eerie things that happen in this book, making it all the more thrilling.
I had no idea when I'd reached up to tangle my fingers in the dark, curling strands. Even so, he pulled back, chuckling when I moved to follow and keeping me pressed against the tree.
This whole town has just weird IT vibes. Basically, there have been disappearances and accidents going on for years in a town called Ashwick and nobody seems to bat an eye. All this weird and sinister stuff starts happening the day Parker formerly known as Hardly Lowell comes back to town after she was kidnapped and almost killed when she was younger by Curtis McKenzie know referred to as the "Ashwick Butcher".
There's something strange in Ashwick, Parker
What happened to her during the kidnapping is shrouded in mystery as she has forgotten a lot of key elements of what happened that night. Nobody can be trusted…
"We all have secrets, Parker," my friend said at last. "And I worry that you're not ready to hear all of mine."
I’m literally dying to see what happens next, the story is still a puzzle to me although we do find out quite a bit by the end. I seriously enjoyed this book, there are a few super sexy scenes and some MM action as well. This book was a page-turner and I absolutely loved it!!!
December 4, 2021
I was so drawn to the mystery and the secrets in this book! There are MANY stories that are woven into the history of Ashwick and I think that was one of the things that drew me in and kept me wondering what was going to happen next; what new question I might have after the next page;
Parker, I liked. She was a bit frustrating at times. But, considering the world (in the more local sense) seemed to want to define her by what happened to her equally as much as she has tried to separate herself, I can see why she may want some answers and perhaps some closure? Even if that means making unsafe decisions. That’s just my thought though.
Everett, the best friend turned something more? I wrote myself a note about him: LOTS OF SECRETS. Pretty much all of which stay that way and I am EXTREMELY curious. He has obviously accrued some skeletons in his closet in the years they’ve been apart.
Kayn, of the dark and handsome variety, is pretty up front about some of his skeletons, not so much about everything else. I would love to learn more about where he comes from and what the heck he was doing before he came into Ashwick. However, I did very much like his… bossy side? Yeah, that’s what we’ll call it. 😉
Definitely a cliffhanger here that left me feeling very unsatisfied and I will be waiting impatiently for the next book because…. I NEED IT!
Some of my favorite things:
KAYN!!!!! That’s all I have to say about that.
Parker and Everett’s relationship- the buildup, really enjoyed that.
The dynamic between Kayn, Parker, and Everett.
I received this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Parker, I liked. She was a bit frustrating at times. But, considering the world (in the more local sense) seemed to want to define her by what happened to her equally as much as she has tried to separate herself, I can see why she may want some answers and perhaps some closure? Even if that means making unsafe decisions. That’s just my thought though.
Everett, the best friend turned something more? I wrote myself a note about him: LOTS OF SECRETS. Pretty much all of which stay that way and I am EXTREMELY curious. He has obviously accrued some skeletons in his closet in the years they’ve been apart.
Kayn, of the dark and handsome variety, is pretty up front about some of his skeletons, not so much about everything else. I would love to learn more about where he comes from and what the heck he was doing before he came into Ashwick. However, I did very much like his… bossy side? Yeah, that’s what we’ll call it. 😉
Definitely a cliffhanger here that left me feeling very unsatisfied and I will be waiting impatiently for the next book because…. I NEED IT!
Some of my favorite things:
KAYN!!!!! That’s all I have to say about that.
Parker and Everett’s relationship- the buildup, really enjoyed that.
The dynamic between Kayn, Parker, and Everett.
I received this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 8, 2022
This book. I don’t even know where to start! I honestly feel like I have no words! Parker was kidnapped as a child by a serial killer and lived and when she goes back home to help her sister…it seems like she’s gained a new stalker who won’t let her forget that she lived. This stalker seems to want Parker to remember more from that night and about the town in general as it seems she’s either misremembered things or forgotten things as a way to survive the trauma. This book is pretty suspenseful and gave me very spooky vibes/stalker/something isn’t right with this town/hidden secrets. There are some moments in here where you think you have things pinned down and figured out, but then you are wrong and left going back to the drawing board with where this story could possibly be going. I did NOT see this ending coming. I think there was maybe one thing that led me to who her stalker is but I didn’t see the other twist with this story. So even when I felt like ‘hey…I think I might know something’...that’s not even the half of it!! The way this book ends…I cannot wait to see what’s going to happen in book two because…man…I didn’t expect that…
To speak on her men in this book Everett is her childhood best friend who was also with her the day she was kidnapped. And it seems like the feelings she once had for Ev never really went away and he’s gotten better as he grew up. He’s very sweet and very boy next door…but a bit of darkness is also in him. Kayn, I loved Kayn, he’s so straight forward, blunt, patient. He’s also dark and doesn’t really try to hide that about himself. And the way he talks to Parker….ugh..yes please! I definitely wanted more of Kayn!!
To speak on her men in this book Everett is her childhood best friend who was also with her the day she was kidnapped. And it seems like the feelings she once had for Ev never really went away and he’s gotten better as he grew up. He’s very sweet and very boy next door…but a bit of darkness is also in him. Kayn, I loved Kayn, he’s so straight forward, blunt, patient. He’s also dark and doesn’t really try to hide that about himself. And the way he talks to Parker….ugh..yes please! I definitely wanted more of Kayn!!
December 2, 2021
Insanely suspenseful and thrilling new series!
WOW! Talk about a story that keeps you guessing the whole way through, not knowing who we should be suspicious of and who the bad guys actually are. It kept me on the edge of my seat, biting my nails, and shocked by the secrets slowly being revealed in almost every chapter. Little tidbits of information seep out of the pages keeping you completely hooked on the story and anticipating how it was all going to play out.
Parker, Everett and Kayn are very unique and complex characters. They are all slightly damaged in some way and each has some demons in their pasts that they may or may not be trying to outrun. I loved the dynamics between these three. They have a great connection that seems to grow stronger the more they get involved with each other. But there are secrets that still need to surface!
This story is slow burn but the tension and all the intriguing little tidbits kept me turning the pages quickly and shocked when a curveball gets thrown in the midst of it all. There is still so much we don’t know about this whole story. There are many unanswered questions that need to be resolved. I am waiting patiently for all the answers!
This story is well written that it just sucks you in and keeps you in its grips the whole way through. With so much suspense, mystery and twists I am really unsure how this story is going to progress or what is going to happen in the next part of the story.
I loved every mysterious second of this story and I can’t wait for the next part.
WOW! Talk about a story that keeps you guessing the whole way through, not knowing who we should be suspicious of and who the bad guys actually are. It kept me on the edge of my seat, biting my nails, and shocked by the secrets slowly being revealed in almost every chapter. Little tidbits of information seep out of the pages keeping you completely hooked on the story and anticipating how it was all going to play out.
Parker, Everett and Kayn are very unique and complex characters. They are all slightly damaged in some way and each has some demons in their pasts that they may or may not be trying to outrun. I loved the dynamics between these three. They have a great connection that seems to grow stronger the more they get involved with each other. But there are secrets that still need to surface!
This story is slow burn but the tension and all the intriguing little tidbits kept me turning the pages quickly and shocked when a curveball gets thrown in the midst of it all. There is still so much we don’t know about this whole story. There are many unanswered questions that need to be resolved. I am waiting patiently for all the answers!
This story is well written that it just sucks you in and keeps you in its grips the whole way through. With so much suspense, mystery and twists I am really unsure how this story is going to progress or what is going to happen in the next part of the story.
I loved every mysterious second of this story and I can’t wait for the next part.
May 14, 2024
This book is so good. It's one of my older but favorite reads. This is definitely one book I'll always recommend to people. It's so well written and gets so spooky at times without overdoing it. I'd rate it 10 stars if I could.
A bit about it: We Tells Lies is the first part of a duet. It follows Parker, a former victim of a serial killer, who comes back to her hometown Ashwick after years of being away to help her sister. Instead of a warm welcome, Parker comes back to a welcome home message of murder. Someone is out for blood and has their sights set on her. Her only reprieve while trying to solve this mystery is her childhood best friend Everett and his insanely attractive boyfriend Kayn, who help her try to track down the murderer and help her remember a past she's trying hard to move on from, but everything isn't as it seems in Ashwick.
💀 small town horror
💀 friends to lovers
💀 poly romance
💀 touch her and die
💀 repressed memories
Favorite quotes:
•"𝘐 𝘸𝘪𝘴𝘩 𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘥," 𝘐 𝘴𝘢𝘪𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘴𝘪𝘨𝘯, 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘶𝘱 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘶𝘣 𝘮𝘺 𝘦𝘺𝘦𝘴. "𝘐𝘵'𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴. 𝘐'𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘢 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮 𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘦𝘦𝘮𝘴 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘢𝘳. 𝘐𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘐 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳." - "𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘢 𝘣𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰𝘯'𝘵," 𝘏𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘦 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘢𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘮𝘭𝘺, 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘥. "𝘚𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘮𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘯."
•"𝘖𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘶𝘯-𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘵. 𝘋𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘪𝘵'𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘴, 𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘰𝘧 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘳𝘶𝘪𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘣𝘺 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨."
A bit about it: We Tells Lies is the first part of a duet. It follows Parker, a former victim of a serial killer, who comes back to her hometown Ashwick after years of being away to help her sister. Instead of a warm welcome, Parker comes back to a welcome home message of murder. Someone is out for blood and has their sights set on her. Her only reprieve while trying to solve this mystery is her childhood best friend Everett and his insanely attractive boyfriend Kayn, who help her try to track down the murderer and help her remember a past she's trying hard to move on from, but everything isn't as it seems in Ashwick.
💀 small town horror
💀 friends to lovers
💀 poly romance
💀 touch her and die
💀 repressed memories
Favorite quotes:
•"𝘐 𝘸𝘪𝘴𝘩 𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘥," 𝘐 𝘴𝘢𝘪𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘴𝘪𝘨𝘯, 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘶𝘱 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘶𝘣 𝘮𝘺 𝘦𝘺𝘦𝘴. "𝘐𝘵'𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴. 𝘐'𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘢 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮 𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘦𝘦𝘮𝘴 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘢𝘳. 𝘐𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘐 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳." - "𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘢 𝘣𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰𝘯'𝘵," 𝘏𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘦 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘢𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘮𝘭𝘺, 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘥. "𝘚𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘮𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘯."
•"𝘖𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘶𝘯-𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘵. 𝘋𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘪𝘵'𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘴, 𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘰𝘧 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘳𝘶𝘪𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘣𝘺 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨."
December 1, 2021
I don't know where to start with this book apart from the fact that I absolutely loved it!!
OK so first off, what in the hell is going on in Ashwick???
Nothing visible quite as it seems in the small town of Ashwick, as Parker finds out when she returns to take care of her sister.
I absolutely loved the main characters.
Parker is determined to find out the truth of what happened to her as a child and the links it has to a new killer that targets her as soon as she gets back into town, even if that puts her in some dangerous situations.
Everett is the best friend and is really sweet at times, but at the same time you just know there is something lurking under the surface and I can't wait to find out just what that is.
And Kayn. I certainly did not expect him! He came to town for his own reasons under the guise of a reporter, but he's actually a serial killer! He's the guy you definitely shouldn't want but absolutely do!🥵🥵
It's a slow burn romance and the chemistry and tension between the them was amazing, with the spicy scenes being a preview to what I hope could be some super hot spice in the next book.
And I absolutely loved the plot, there was so much mystery surrounding the town, and so much suspense with so many twists that I never saw coming that I just had to keep reading.
And I never saw that ending coming!
I can't wait for the next book and to find out what Parker does with her recovered memories.
OK so first off, what in the hell is going on in Ashwick???
Nothing visible quite as it seems in the small town of Ashwick, as Parker finds out when she returns to take care of her sister.
I absolutely loved the main characters.
Parker is determined to find out the truth of what happened to her as a child and the links it has to a new killer that targets her as soon as she gets back into town, even if that puts her in some dangerous situations.
Everett is the best friend and is really sweet at times, but at the same time you just know there is something lurking under the surface and I can't wait to find out just what that is.
And Kayn. I certainly did not expect him! He came to town for his own reasons under the guise of a reporter, but he's actually a serial killer! He's the guy you definitely shouldn't want but absolutely do!🥵🥵
It's a slow burn romance and the chemistry and tension between the them was amazing, with the spicy scenes being a preview to what I hope could be some super hot spice in the next book.
And I absolutely loved the plot, there was so much mystery surrounding the town, and so much suspense with so many twists that I never saw coming that I just had to keep reading.
And I never saw that ending coming!
I can't wait for the next book and to find out what Parker does with her recovered memories.
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