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Liar
Amber Carmichael splits her time between her nursing career and community spirited acts of kindness. This life fulfils her; she has no interest in nightclubs or the men her friends tirelessly chase. The spark of attraction has never lit within her and of this, Amber is glad.
Until one day her dreams begin to shift; something deep in her subconscious begs to awaken.
This stirring within her attracts the attention of an enemy. An enemy she doesn't know exists; a threat she can't possibly hide from.
Because how do you hide from the one soul in the world who truly sees you?
A heart has to fall before it can soar.
The latest release from Nicola Lowe - forbidden love and enemies to lovers collide to form a perfect storm of paranormal romance that will leave you begging for the sequel.
Until one day her dreams begin to shift; something deep in her subconscious begs to awaken.
This stirring within her attracts the attention of an enemy. An enemy she doesn't know exists; a threat she can't possibly hide from.
Because how do you hide from the one soul in the world who truly sees you?
A heart has to fall before it can soar.
The latest release from Nicola Lowe - forbidden love and enemies to lovers collide to form a perfect storm of paranormal romance that will leave you begging for the sequel.
- GenresRomanceParanormalFantasy
290 pages, Paperback
First published July 7, 2022
1 person is currently reading
33 people want to read
About the author
Nicola Lowe
4 books63 followersNicola Lowe is a pure romantic and has been that way for all of her forty years. Based in Northwest England, she is happiest when curled up with a glass of white wine and a very romantic book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
May 1, 2022
I received an e-ARC via BookSirens in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions remain my own.
If there is one trope I hate above all others, it is insta-love. Insta-love removes the point of a romantic relationship and minimizes the impact it can have on a narrative. It is never believable for characters to meet and fall in love within three days, and such a trope usually removes the interesting parts of a romance. If there isn’t any tension or romantic conflict, a romance doesn’t really have a point. Sadly, Liar by Nicola Lowe was a prime example of why insta-love doesn’t work.
The two main characters of the story (Amber and Anwir) claim to be madly in love with each other within days of their first meeting. They’re also completely different characters the instant they see each other. For the first half of the story, readers are told how horrible, cruel, and frankly, patriarchal Anwir is. He uses women as tools, but the audience is supposed to ignore that because the moment he meets Amber, suddenly, he is a kind, polite feminist who definitely didn’t treat women like objects previously (sarcasm intended). As for Amber, the author spends so much time outlining how she isn’t like other girls that Amber never gets an actual character. I knew her hair and eye color better than a single one of her personality traits.
The plot itself was contradictory, and the ending eliminated all real conflict from the narrative, undermining the original point of the story. It was confusing to follow the various random timelines, and it felt like the book did a complete 180 in the middle, and then pretended that it had followed that path the entire time. The supposed worldbuilding existed for about ten chapters until the plot events undermined the entire fabric of the world without consequences.
As for the villain, he too seemed to become a different person around the halfway point. I know he was supposed to be a character foil to Anwir, but he was evil without a reason, just as Amber was good without a reason. No character was well developed: they felt like shadows playing at being people. I had no reason to care about any of them because they didn’t have developed personalities or backstories that the reader could get invested in. I will reiterate that I knew what they looked like more than I knew who they were.
Overall, I expected a gripping fantasy romance with moral distinctions between heaven and hell, intense turmoil, romantic tension, and interesting characters. What I got instead was an insta-love narrative that would have worked in a Hallmark movie with the dressings of a mediocre urban fantasy. Hallmark movies are wonderful, but they don’t pretend to be something they aren’t. If (for some unknowable reason) you are a reader who enjoyed Becca Fitzpatrick’s Hush, Hush series, then I would consider picking up Liar, because the books are very similar, with the main distinction being that Anwir is slightly less toxic than Patch. Slightly.
If there is one trope I hate above all others, it is insta-love. Insta-love removes the point of a romantic relationship and minimizes the impact it can have on a narrative. It is never believable for characters to meet and fall in love within three days, and such a trope usually removes the interesting parts of a romance. If there isn’t any tension or romantic conflict, a romance doesn’t really have a point. Sadly, Liar by Nicola Lowe was a prime example of why insta-love doesn’t work.
The two main characters of the story (Amber and Anwir) claim to be madly in love with each other within days of their first meeting. They’re also completely different characters the instant they see each other. For the first half of the story, readers are told how horrible, cruel, and frankly, patriarchal Anwir is. He uses women as tools, but the audience is supposed to ignore that because the moment he meets Amber, suddenly, he is a kind, polite feminist who definitely didn’t treat women like objects previously (sarcasm intended). As for Amber, the author spends so much time outlining how she isn’t like other girls that Amber never gets an actual character. I knew her hair and eye color better than a single one of her personality traits.
The plot itself was contradictory, and the ending eliminated all real conflict from the narrative, undermining the original point of the story. It was confusing to follow the various random timelines, and it felt like the book did a complete 180 in the middle, and then pretended that it had followed that path the entire time. The supposed worldbuilding existed for about ten chapters until the plot events undermined the entire fabric of the world without consequences.
As for the villain, he too seemed to become a different person around the halfway point. I know he was supposed to be a character foil to Anwir, but he was evil without a reason, just as Amber was good without a reason. No character was well developed: they felt like shadows playing at being people. I had no reason to care about any of them because they didn’t have developed personalities or backstories that the reader could get invested in. I will reiterate that I knew what they looked like more than I knew who they were.
Overall, I expected a gripping fantasy romance with moral distinctions between heaven and hell, intense turmoil, romantic tension, and interesting characters. What I got instead was an insta-love narrative that would have worked in a Hallmark movie with the dressings of a mediocre urban fantasy. Hallmark movies are wonderful, but they don’t pretend to be something they aren’t. If (for some unknowable reason) you are a reader who enjoyed Becca Fitzpatrick’s Hush, Hush series, then I would consider picking up Liar, because the books are very similar, with the main distinction being that Anwir is slightly less toxic than Patch. Slightly.
April 22, 2022
Its always an exciting time when a new Nicola Lowe book comes out, and I promise that you'll be even more excited when you see how she adds paranormal to her already glowing repertoire.
Amber is instantly adorable and her passion for her work shines through. (As a side note, yes to a mention of pancreatic cancer, which is never mentioned enough in books.)
Enter her love life. Phew. A certain someone catches her eye and wowies. No spoilers here, but the way in which her new encounters influence her life and change her are clever, twisty and surprising. Emotion and love are so deep rooted in these characters, they feel vivid, real and emotions feel raw. I felt so invested in this and could not put it down.
Even the smaller characters feel fundamental and impactful which is not easy to achieve.
This author has absolutely smashed it again.
Amber is instantly adorable and her passion for her work shines through. (As a side note, yes to a mention of pancreatic cancer, which is never mentioned enough in books.)
Enter her love life. Phew. A certain someone catches her eye and wowies. No spoilers here, but the way in which her new encounters influence her life and change her are clever, twisty and surprising. Emotion and love are so deep rooted in these characters, they feel vivid, real and emotions feel raw. I felt so invested in this and could not put it down.
Even the smaller characters feel fundamental and impactful which is not easy to achieve.
This author has absolutely smashed it again.
October 6, 2022
Two gorgeous men with nefarious missions. One confused and innocent woman. Who is the liar?
This is my first Nicola Lowe novel and it is a beautiful romantic paranormal page-turner.
Amber is trapped between a forgotten past and an unattainable future. She’s a bereavement counselor and she loves her job. She has no time for men and romance. In fact, she’s never even kissed a man and she’s a virgin. Then the dreams start with a gorgeous blue-eyed man who happens to look a lot like the new hire at the hospice. He’s kind, attentive, and wants Amber. Then another man suddenly appears in her life. He’s vulnerable and charming and makes her feel safe. Two men vying for her love. Is it too good to be true?
Anwir is a man filled with rage and revenge and he has finally found the woman who was the center of his despicable father’s fuck up. He plans to fix his father’s mess and end her. But everything they said about her was wrong. She is beautiful and kind…and he can actually touch her without getting burned. Will he carry out his evil mission, or will her goodness overcome his need for vengeance?
This is a story about good and bad. You can’t judge a book by its cover and as the author peels back the layers of Amber, Anwir, and Ben, it makes for a suspenseful and surprising happily ever after. Amber is a truly lovely person who innocently trusts two strangers with dark secrets. Ben and Anwir are not who they seem and I was happy that Amber trusted her instincts in choosing the right one. Anwir is a bad boy who grew on me the more he fell for Amber. His loving words and gentleness with her are lovely as his bad persona essentially disappeared the longer he is around her. However, their forbidden love seems impossible when the truth comes out. The finale is an eye-opener and some tears were shed, but it was well worth the heartache to see the protagonists get the happiness they deserved.
There were few supporting characters such as the feisty Ellie, Amber’s co-worker, and Amani, a past patient and friend who gives Amber her second chance. And of course, there is a vile antagonist who gets his just desserts.
What a lovely paranormal romance with heavenly and hellish tendencies. I guarantee you will fall in love with the characters as they battle the odds and find their peace.
Thank you to Ms. Lowe for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
This is my first Nicola Lowe novel and it is a beautiful romantic paranormal page-turner.
Amber is trapped between a forgotten past and an unattainable future. She’s a bereavement counselor and she loves her job. She has no time for men and romance. In fact, she’s never even kissed a man and she’s a virgin. Then the dreams start with a gorgeous blue-eyed man who happens to look a lot like the new hire at the hospice. He’s kind, attentive, and wants Amber. Then another man suddenly appears in her life. He’s vulnerable and charming and makes her feel safe. Two men vying for her love. Is it too good to be true?
Anwir is a man filled with rage and revenge and he has finally found the woman who was the center of his despicable father’s fuck up. He plans to fix his father’s mess and end her. But everything they said about her was wrong. She is beautiful and kind…and he can actually touch her without getting burned. Will he carry out his evil mission, or will her goodness overcome his need for vengeance?
This is a story about good and bad. You can’t judge a book by its cover and as the author peels back the layers of Amber, Anwir, and Ben, it makes for a suspenseful and surprising happily ever after. Amber is a truly lovely person who innocently trusts two strangers with dark secrets. Ben and Anwir are not who they seem and I was happy that Amber trusted her instincts in choosing the right one. Anwir is a bad boy who grew on me the more he fell for Amber. His loving words and gentleness with her are lovely as his bad persona essentially disappeared the longer he is around her. However, their forbidden love seems impossible when the truth comes out. The finale is an eye-opener and some tears were shed, but it was well worth the heartache to see the protagonists get the happiness they deserved.
There were few supporting characters such as the feisty Ellie, Amber’s co-worker, and Amani, a past patient and friend who gives Amber her second chance. And of course, there is a vile antagonist who gets his just desserts.
What a lovely paranormal romance with heavenly and hellish tendencies. I guarantee you will fall in love with the characters as they battle the odds and find their peace.
Thank you to Ms. Lowe for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
April 25, 2022
Nicola Lowe has pulled it out the bag with this beautifully written, enthralling and utterly addictive read! It's dark, it's angsty, it's steamy and it absolutely leaves you wanting MORE!! I need a sequel Nicola- ASAP please!
June 13, 2022
Liar is a beautifully written paranormal romance by Nicola Lowe. Amber is trapped between a forgotten past and a forbidden future. She is a divine contradiction of naive and angelic innocence filled with intense lust and passion for a savage demon. Having been a fan since her first book, The Missed Kiss, Liar is, in my opinion, Lowe’s best work, yet. Her storytelling is magnificent, layered with emotion and page turning excitement. It’s romantic, heart stopping, intriguing, and steamy. The settings in Liar are pure fantasy. Exquisite penthouses and glorious thunderstorms. Now, let’s talk about Anwir. He is handsome beyond compare and absolutely delicious. He is simply sex on a stick. His controlling and arrogant nature is made oddly attractive by his contrasting vulnerability and gentle whispers of adoration in the ear of the woman who has not only stolen his heart, but created it. The message is clear…love is all consuming, often unexpected, and out of our control. Love is not always easy. It can be earth shattering…if we should be so lucky.
April 30, 2022
I have read all of Nicola Lowe’s novels, each one as amazing as the other, but Liar is without a doubt my favourite. Although I’m more of a slow burn fan, Liar is penned so beautifully with fantastic characters you can’t help but fall in love with, I was transfixed by the star-crossed lovers narrative & hooked from the beginning. Amber is a fabulous character & the confusion & turmoil she feels especially when it comes to the steamier parts, is handled brilliantly - she so damn lovely, I was totally rooting for her happiness. The narrative flows effortlessly & is very cleverly written - I thought I had the roles the characters would play sussed & I couldn’t help but smile when I was proved wrong. The paranormal elements were an interesting take & I honestly think if you haven’t read paranormal romance before, Liar is a great place to start - the romance certainly takes centre stage. I would go into detail about the unique male characters, but I won’t spoil the fun! If you love romance - heart warming, beautiful, sweet yet sexy romance - I highly recommend giving Liar a read!
May 28, 2022
This is such an intriguing, well-written book. I was fortunate enough to get an ARC from the author, and I devoured every page! The heroine was strong and instantly likable, and her love interest was mysterious and swoonable! I'm so thankful I had the opportunity to read this book, and will happily read all her future works.
April 26, 2022
Love, love, loved this book, please tell me there'll be a sequel!? ❤️
It's probably....actually no, definitely my favourite paranormal romance EVER!
Nicola, you've done it again and written not only one of my favourite books of the year, but another winning five star read!
Beautifully written, a stunning story that captivates both your heart and soul, drawing you into its pages.
The characters are gorgeous, Amber so pure and innocent, and I don't think there are words to describe Anwar, he was everything in and out of the bedroom, and quite literally a demon in disguise.
Many thanks to the author for my gifted copy.
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It's probably....actually no, definitely my favourite paranormal romance EVER!
Nicola, you've done it again and written not only one of my favourite books of the year, but another winning five star read!
Beautifully written, a stunning story that captivates both your heart and soul, drawing you into its pages.
The characters are gorgeous, Amber so pure and innocent, and I don't think there are words to describe Anwar, he was everything in and out of the bedroom, and quite literally a demon in disguise.
Many thanks to the author for my gifted copy.
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
May 4, 2022
This has to be my favorite book yet from the talented Nicola Lowe! The plot twists, love story, and travelling through dimensions kept me page-turning until late at night! You can't help but fall in love with Amber, someone who sees the good in everyone, and wish that she finds the true love of her life.
The author writes the characters and setting with such stunning details that it will leave you wanting to see this made in a movie or TV series! The love story is epic and really is a must read!!
The author writes the characters and setting with such stunning details that it will leave you wanting to see this made in a movie or TV series! The love story is epic and really is a must read!!
May 2, 2022
Wow! That was a rollercoaster!
At the start of the book I felt very confident and excited about Amber and Ben’s relationship. Ahhh they’re perfect together! What a lovely romance!
Enter Mason!
He was the bad guy, the guy I shouldn’t like but, wow did he grow on me. The story was full of twists and turns. I felt happy and hopeful with how Amber felt so free and light hearted with Mason, yet I felt despair and a HUGE amount of anger with the way Ben treated her. How dare he think he could treat her that way!
This third book from Nicola Lowe was written so beautifully that she just pulled me in with her descriptive writing. I felt I was there with her characters, feeling what they were felling and falling in love with the hero of the story, along with Amber.
Thank you Nicola for another amazing read!
At the start of the book I felt very confident and excited about Amber and Ben’s relationship. Ahhh they’re perfect together! What a lovely romance!
Enter Mason!
He was the bad guy, the guy I shouldn’t like but, wow did he grow on me. The story was full of twists and turns. I felt happy and hopeful with how Amber felt so free and light hearted with Mason, yet I felt despair and a HUGE amount of anger with the way Ben treated her. How dare he think he could treat her that way!
This third book from Nicola Lowe was written so beautifully that she just pulled me in with her descriptive writing. I felt I was there with her characters, feeling what they were felling and falling in love with the hero of the story, along with Amber.
Thank you Nicola for another amazing read!
July 10, 2022
Really enjoyed this romance between Amber and Anwir.
Good girl meets good boy. Then meets bad boy. Worlds change.
I figured out the ending of the story early on but in no way did that detract from the book.
Love the characters and the world Nicola has built around them. Especially the description of their wings later in the book.
Amber is the sweetest and Anwir is a protective grump lol.
Look forward to reading more by this author.
Good girl meets good boy. Then meets bad boy. Worlds change.
I figured out the ending of the story early on but in no way did that detract from the book.
Love the characters and the world Nicola has built around them. Especially the description of their wings later in the book.
Amber is the sweetest and Anwir is a protective grump lol.
Look forward to reading more by this author.
May 14, 2022
So far I've read every one of Nicola's books and this time readers can enjoy a slightly different story with the authors adventure into paranormal romance.
Amber works in a hospice and is very content with helping people with their grief and spending her downtime with a nice cup of tea and a good book. She doesn't go out, drink, and has gotten to age twenty five without being interested in men or relationships.
Then Ben comes along. The new counsellor at the hospice, he and Amber are drawn to each other. She can't explain what's going on but tries to go with these new feelings and emotions.
But from the sidelines the mysterious Anwir is watching over Amber. She is caught up in something that she doesn't understand and something that is not entirely natural.
With Nicola's previous novels being contemporary romance, I was very curious how this journey into paranormal romance would be. But I loved it equally to the others.
I connected so much to Amber straight away, and the way this story builds up is amazing. I knew something big was coming as I read, but the whole thing absorbed me and I couldn't stop reading during my spare time. It's beautifully written and I honestly want everyone to discover this author who has already become one of my favourites from just a few books.
I found it refreshing to have a lead character who not only doesn't drink alcohol or go out to bars and clubs, but one who is also a virgin. I don't feel like that's something many adult novels have. It seems like in today's world if you don't drink, go out etc it's seen as a negative thing, so I liked that it wasn't portrayed that way in this one.
The character of Anwir/Mason was an intriguing one. Full of mystery, I really liked how we saw him grow and change once Amber's presence was near to him.
I can't say certain things about the plot without including spoilers, which I don't want to do. I will say if you've read Nicola's other work then you will love this one just as much. If you haven't tried this authors work then I highly recommend.
I really hope we get a sequel as I'd love to have more of Amber and Anwir ❤️
Contains : swearing and sexual content, mentions of domestic violence/assault.
Release date : July 7th.
Amber works in a hospice and is very content with helping people with their grief and spending her downtime with a nice cup of tea and a good book. She doesn't go out, drink, and has gotten to age twenty five without being interested in men or relationships.
Then Ben comes along. The new counsellor at the hospice, he and Amber are drawn to each other. She can't explain what's going on but tries to go with these new feelings and emotions.
But from the sidelines the mysterious Anwir is watching over Amber. She is caught up in something that she doesn't understand and something that is not entirely natural.
With Nicola's previous novels being contemporary romance, I was very curious how this journey into paranormal romance would be. But I loved it equally to the others.
I connected so much to Amber straight away, and the way this story builds up is amazing. I knew something big was coming as I read, but the whole thing absorbed me and I couldn't stop reading during my spare time. It's beautifully written and I honestly want everyone to discover this author who has already become one of my favourites from just a few books.
I found it refreshing to have a lead character who not only doesn't drink alcohol or go out to bars and clubs, but one who is also a virgin. I don't feel like that's something many adult novels have. It seems like in today's world if you don't drink, go out etc it's seen as a negative thing, so I liked that it wasn't portrayed that way in this one.
The character of Anwir/Mason was an intriguing one. Full of mystery, I really liked how we saw him grow and change once Amber's presence was near to him.
I can't say certain things about the plot without including spoilers, which I don't want to do. I will say if you've read Nicola's other work then you will love this one just as much. If you haven't tried this authors work then I highly recommend.
I really hope we get a sequel as I'd love to have more of Amber and Anwir ❤️
Contains : swearing and sexual content, mentions of domestic violence/assault.
Release date : July 7th.
June 16, 2022
Imagine working in a job that allows you to help show kindness and love to those nearing their time to pass from this life to whatever awaits them, a job that is going to see your emotions constantly being drained and an impact on your everyday life is undoubted. Amber, a young lady who lives this life, has no want for romance, dating, drinking or any of the other things many her age would consider to be normal wants and desires. When one day a new employee enters her working life and she finds herself drawn to him, Amber finds herself suddenly having those wants starting to become unlocked but something seems too familiar about him and the way he speaks as if they have known each other for many years.
Suddenly Amber finds herself with another male suitor who she simply can't get out of her head but how can her life change so quickly? Amber finds her life seem to spiral out of control but with one central point keeping her tied to reality, her heart and its wants.
This is a superbly written piece of work that really does work beautifully and feels very unlike anything previously offered from this author, yet feels of the same amazing standard that we have come to find with her work. The book has twists and turns that you don't see coming and is one of those works you find yourself reading through no matter the time or how tired you are as it draws you in and makes you desperate to know what comes next.
Suddenly Amber finds herself with another male suitor who she simply can't get out of her head but how can her life change so quickly? Amber finds her life seem to spiral out of control but with one central point keeping her tied to reality, her heart and its wants.
This is a superbly written piece of work that really does work beautifully and feels very unlike anything previously offered from this author, yet feels of the same amazing standard that we have come to find with her work. The book has twists and turns that you don't see coming and is one of those works you find yourself reading through no matter the time or how tired you are as it draws you in and makes you desperate to know what comes next.
June 14, 2022
LIAR is the first book by this author I have read and, if she continues with the trilogy as she wants to, it won't be the last! I don't usually read demons/angels but something about this blurb pulled me in, and I'm so very glad it did.
I read a lot of PNR so am no stranger to insta-love. But in this case, Ben rubbed me the wrong way from the very beginning and I couldn't say why as he appeared to be perfectly nice. Anwir, on the other hand, is not a nice demon. He is selfish and treats others very harshly. He changes when he meets Amber. Does that make up for his past? No, not at all, but it does show there is a chance for change.
I would have liked a bit more about the personalities of the three main characters. The focus appeared to be on hair/eye colour etc., more than other attributes. There are also other parts that appear to have been left open-ended so I'm really hoping to have my questions answered in future books.
Overall, this was a great read that kept my attention. I can't wait to see where things go next. Definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
I read a lot of PNR so am no stranger to insta-love. But in this case, Ben rubbed me the wrong way from the very beginning and I couldn't say why as he appeared to be perfectly nice. Anwir, on the other hand, is not a nice demon. He is selfish and treats others very harshly. He changes when he meets Amber. Does that make up for his past? No, not at all, but it does show there is a chance for change.
I would have liked a bit more about the personalities of the three main characters. The focus appeared to be on hair/eye colour etc., more than other attributes. There are also other parts that appear to have been left open-ended so I'm really hoping to have my questions answered in future books.
Overall, this was a great read that kept my attention. I can't wait to see where things go next. Definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
June 30, 2022
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Rating 3.75
Smut level 🌶
I received an arc copy of this book to read and provide a review.
First thing to note is that additional trigger warnings for this book should be noted, including -
sexual assault, domestic abuse, cancer & death.
I did struggle getting into this book. At the beginning the world building wasn’t there, it was a little confusing and I wasn’t sure about the characters. It was quite hard to find them holding my interest and there didn’t appear to be anything paranormal which did throw me with this being a Paranormal Romance.
Around 20% in where I felt drawn in and felt the pull of the story (I then read to 80% in one night). The MMC - Anwir (hot dark-haired demon) comes in about then and is where the story and background starts to take shape along with the FMC - Amber starting to become something more (which I can kind of see is the point).
Anwir was definitely the best written character in the novel and the interaction between Anwir and Amber definitely helps the development of Amber’s character and the writing of the novel.
As the story progressed, with the world and the story being built more and better, it became a very enjoyable book.
Nicola (author) has mentioned that she would like to do a trilogy of this book which would be interesting but at the same time there is a HEA and it could quite easily end there.
Rating 3.75
Smut level 🌶
I received an arc copy of this book to read and provide a review.
First thing to note is that additional trigger warnings for this book should be noted, including -
sexual assault, domestic abuse, cancer & death.
I did struggle getting into this book. At the beginning the world building wasn’t there, it was a little confusing and I wasn’t sure about the characters. It was quite hard to find them holding my interest and there didn’t appear to be anything paranormal which did throw me with this being a Paranormal Romance.
Around 20% in where I felt drawn in and felt the pull of the story (I then read to 80% in one night). The MMC - Anwir (hot dark-haired demon) comes in about then and is where the story and background starts to take shape along with the FMC - Amber starting to become something more (which I can kind of see is the point).
Anwir was definitely the best written character in the novel and the interaction between Anwir and Amber definitely helps the development of Amber’s character and the writing of the novel.
As the story progressed, with the world and the story being built more and better, it became a very enjoyable book.
Nicola (author) has mentioned that she would like to do a trilogy of this book which would be interesting but at the same time there is a HEA and it could quite easily end there.
May 1, 2022
Liar is the new paranormal romance from Nicola Lowe, and for those, like me, that loved her contemporary romance books, you won’t be disappointed with a story that is just as passionate, engaging, and addictive. It’s just that this time there are added angels and demons.
The introduction to the caring and empathic Amber draws you into an emotional and realistic scenario, only to pull the rug completely with a sudden shift to a very different character, tone, and setting, and it’s fair to say that you won’t be predicting how things will turn out for a while. But you’ll want to keep reading to find out. This is a fast-paced, warm book of love and redemption, but with an equal measure of violence and spice, and even if you are slightly wary of dipping your toes into the paranormal, this could be read as a parable and reference to the all too common abusive relationships of this world, and the hope of escape.
I won’t add spoilers, but there is a wonderful and fascinating new mythology here too, which opens up a whole canvas for future stories, and I hope Nicola writes them.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens in return for an unbiased review.
The introduction to the caring and empathic Amber draws you into an emotional and realistic scenario, only to pull the rug completely with a sudden shift to a very different character, tone, and setting, and it’s fair to say that you won’t be predicting how things will turn out for a while. But you’ll want to keep reading to find out. This is a fast-paced, warm book of love and redemption, but with an equal measure of violence and spice, and even if you are slightly wary of dipping your toes into the paranormal, this could be read as a parable and reference to the all too common abusive relationships of this world, and the hope of escape.
I won’t add spoilers, but there is a wonderful and fascinating new mythology here too, which opens up a whole canvas for future stories, and I hope Nicola writes them.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens in return for an unbiased review.
June 16, 2022
Review by Literary Titans
Anwir has made it his mission to complete the prophecy his father was not strong enough to finish. That mission includes destroying the unassuming Amber Carmichael. Amber dedicates her life to being a grief counselor at a hospice care center, so much so that she never has time to explore a love life. Until one night when she has a dream about a handsome man, she has had no desire to do so. When she meets the man from her dreams and another chiseled businessman, that all changes. But are they who they say they are? Find out in the new paranormal romance by Nicola Lowe!
Nicola Lowe has written an evocative novel that takes readers on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. The author’s writing style makes for easy reading and readers will easily get lost in the love story. The storytelling is smooth, which I think comes from Lowe’s experience as a writer; this being the fourth book published.
I also enjoyed the dialogue in this story. I felt that it flowed naturally and felt authentic and really pulled me into the drama. Which is important in a sultry novel such as this. Fans of romance novels will find some genre tropes within this story, but I feel like they are used effectively in this book. This is because the story is an alluring blend of an impassioned romance novel and a rousing paranormal drama. The characters quickly fall in love before the story takes readers headlong through a series of exciting events. This story transported me back to my teen years and reminded me of the same nostalgic feeling I get when reading my favorite paranormal romance series.
Liar will make a fantastic summer read for anyone looking for stimulating melodrama held up by interesting characters. If you love paranormal romance novels that expertly wield classic tropes, you will adore Liar by Nicola Lowe!
Anwir has made it his mission to complete the prophecy his father was not strong enough to finish. That mission includes destroying the unassuming Amber Carmichael. Amber dedicates her life to being a grief counselor at a hospice care center, so much so that she never has time to explore a love life. Until one night when she has a dream about a handsome man, she has had no desire to do so. When she meets the man from her dreams and another chiseled businessman, that all changes. But are they who they say they are? Find out in the new paranormal romance by Nicola Lowe!
Nicola Lowe has written an evocative novel that takes readers on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. The author’s writing style makes for easy reading and readers will easily get lost in the love story. The storytelling is smooth, which I think comes from Lowe’s experience as a writer; this being the fourth book published.
I also enjoyed the dialogue in this story. I felt that it flowed naturally and felt authentic and really pulled me into the drama. Which is important in a sultry novel such as this. Fans of romance novels will find some genre tropes within this story, but I feel like they are used effectively in this book. This is because the story is an alluring blend of an impassioned romance novel and a rousing paranormal drama. The characters quickly fall in love before the story takes readers headlong through a series of exciting events. This story transported me back to my teen years and reminded me of the same nostalgic feeling I get when reading my favorite paranormal romance series.
Liar will make a fantastic summer read for anyone looking for stimulating melodrama held up by interesting characters. If you love paranormal romance novels that expertly wield classic tropes, you will adore Liar by Nicola Lowe!
October 4, 2022
Well this proved a very different read
With paranormals - who is out to deceive?
Love and romance
Portends and chance
Dreams of the future - or of the past?
Deceptions revealed at last?
But what is the truth, it is hard to find
When the focus is on someone who is so kind.
Told from different points of view
And possibly from different times, too.
The start of a trilogy it would seem
What'll happen next I can only dream!
Fight the good fight?
Do the good wear white?
Angels and demons are opposites and yet
Which one would prove to be the best bet?
Forbidden love for someone that is true
But who is that- you'll need more than one clue!
Fascinating, engaging and surprising you'll see
How falling can prove so uplifting to be!
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
With paranormals - who is out to deceive?
Love and romance
Portends and chance
Dreams of the future - or of the past?
Deceptions revealed at last?
But what is the truth, it is hard to find
When the focus is on someone who is so kind.
Told from different points of view
And possibly from different times, too.
The start of a trilogy it would seem
What'll happen next I can only dream!
Fight the good fight?
Do the good wear white?
Angels and demons are opposites and yet
Which one would prove to be the best bet?
Forbidden love for someone that is true
But who is that- you'll need more than one clue!
Fascinating, engaging and surprising you'll see
How falling can prove so uplifting to be!
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
May 23, 2022
**ARC PROVIDED FOR FREE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW**
Personally, love triangles are not my thing, but this book is an exception that I welcome with open arms. It was well written and the dual pov made it close to perfection.
Amber was so innocent in the beginning but by the end, she becomes a queen. I loved that not everything was as I imagined it would be and the plot twists kept coming the more I read.
The love interest - the one she ends up with - is what got me hooked. He is easy to empathize with and he is soooooo sweet.
The ending was so beautifully written that it made me cry. Couldn't be happier about how the book ended.
If indeed this turns out to be the first book in a series I will be there to read the next ones.
Personally, love triangles are not my thing, but this book is an exception that I welcome with open arms. It was well written and the dual pov made it close to perfection.
Amber was so innocent in the beginning but by the end, she becomes a queen. I loved that not everything was as I imagined it would be and the plot twists kept coming the more I read.
The love interest - the one she ends up with - is what got me hooked. He is easy to empathize with and he is soooooo sweet.
The ending was so beautifully written that it made me cry. Couldn't be happier about how the book ended.
If indeed this turns out to be the first book in a series I will be there to read the next ones.
April 29, 2022
This book was amazing. There was so much heartfelt emotion and turmoil in this book.
It was great to watch Anwir slowly realise his worth and that he deserves more than he thought, and when they got their happy ending I couldn't have been happier for them. I'm so thankful for Amani and the selfless acts given to Amber to ensure she got the happiness she deserved.
I kinda wish there was a sequel of the couple and their life in their own plane they call home -would they have named it, found a way to birth children and build a true hope that was free for all forbidden loves to seek safety.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It was great to watch Anwir slowly realise his worth and that he deserves more than he thought, and when they got their happy ending I couldn't have been happier for them. I'm so thankful for Amani and the selfless acts given to Amber to ensure she got the happiness she deserved.
I kinda wish there was a sequel of the couple and their life in their own plane they call home -would they have named it, found a way to birth children and build a true hope that was free for all forbidden loves to seek safety.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 7, 2022
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This story held a lot of potential, the concept was interesting. It’s the ultimate enemies to lovers dynamic.
I feel it was hard to follow in the beginning because the characters weren’t developed enough or introduced in a way that benefitted the flow of the story.
That being said, there was still enough for me to want to know how it ended and stick with it.
I liked the way the ending was written but then I saw that there are more books planned for Anwir and Amber. That ending felt quite final, a bit like how a standalone might end so I’m curious to see how their story continues.
This story held a lot of potential, the concept was interesting. It’s the ultimate enemies to lovers dynamic.
I feel it was hard to follow in the beginning because the characters weren’t developed enough or introduced in a way that benefitted the flow of the story.
That being said, there was still enough for me to want to know how it ended and stick with it.
I liked the way the ending was written but then I saw that there are more books planned for Anwir and Amber. That ending felt quite final, a bit like how a standalone might end so I’m curious to see how their story continues.
June 13, 2022
Fantasy is not my genre of choice, far from it. So I have to feel very confident I will like book from this genre to invest any time in it. Every second was worth investing in Nicola Lowe’s Liar. As an already fan of Nicola’s, it was wonderful to read her trademark romance but the paranormal twist literally brought a whole new dimension to the book! The storyline had a unique slant and characters that had me unable to put the book down. The battle of good and evil plays out in Liar. A battle that is complicated, action and lust filled. Sensual, sexy and saturated with suspense, Liar is a treat that will have you wanting more! Exceptional!
October 3, 2022
Amber works at a hospice, an intense and emotionally draining job, but when she meets Ben, the new bereavement therapist, romance may be on the horizon, until she meets Mason.
These three lives, as well as worlds from past lives, collide to give you Hitch meets Twilight.
This is not my usual genre, paranormal Romance, however it was one that I felt became more intriguing as I read.
I am slightly critical of Amber's nativity as I feel she also lacked common sense, but I was incredibly intrigued by the characters of Ben and Mason. I was more intrigued as the novel went on.
Unfortunately, I did not like the character of Ellie and didn't find her helpful or a 'girlfriend' to confide in.
While this is not my usual read it's one I am glad I picked up and has opened me to more within this genre.
These three lives, as well as worlds from past lives, collide to give you Hitch meets Twilight.
This is not my usual genre, paranormal Romance, however it was one that I felt became more intriguing as I read.
I am slightly critical of Amber's nativity as I feel she also lacked common sense, but I was incredibly intrigued by the characters of Ben and Mason. I was more intrigued as the novel went on.
Unfortunately, I did not like the character of Ellie and didn't find her helpful or a 'girlfriend' to confide in.
While this is not my usual read it's one I am glad I picked up and has opened me to more within this genre.
May 22, 2022
I received an ARC copy of this book to read and review.
It was a little confusing to start and I found the world building a little shaky which I think was the issue. It did improve further in but I'd have preferred more groundwork earlier on.
The lead female character Amber was easy to like and found myself quite invested in her. I struggled a little with the introduction of Ben as again the world building was missing so some things didn't make sense, I understand drip feeding information about him but felt there needed to be more groundwork. Loved the male character Anwir and found him very well written.
Once the story got going and more of the backstory had been explained it was a good book and I really enjoyed it and there were a couple of good twists I didn't expect. I think the romance part of the book was good but the fantasy part needs improvement.
TRIGGER WARNINGS
only sex, violence and profanity is listed but that is far from a complete list!
Trigger warnings need to be added for Domestic assault, Sexual assault, cancer, death.
It was a little confusing to start and I found the world building a little shaky which I think was the issue. It did improve further in but I'd have preferred more groundwork earlier on.
The lead female character Amber was easy to like and found myself quite invested in her. I struggled a little with the introduction of Ben as again the world building was missing so some things didn't make sense, I understand drip feeding information about him but felt there needed to be more groundwork. Loved the male character Anwir and found him very well written.
Once the story got going and more of the backstory had been explained it was a good book and I really enjoyed it and there were a couple of good twists I didn't expect. I think the romance part of the book was good but the fantasy part needs improvement.
TRIGGER WARNINGS
only sex, violence and profanity is listed but that is far from a complete list!
Trigger warnings need to be added for Domestic assault, Sexual assault, cancer, death.
October 4, 2022
Liar is the first book by this author that I have read and it definitely won’t be the last. I loved the variety of characters and the different personalities that they had. I definitely found several characters intriguing and I would love to see more of them.
I had a hate/like relationship with Amber and I honestly found her so exhausting at times. I did like her strength and the fact that she didn’t give up.
I did enjoy the twists and the turns that were scattered throughout the story. I would love to see these characters again.
I had a hate/like relationship with Amber and I honestly found her so exhausting at times. I did like her strength and the fact that she didn’t give up.
I did enjoy the twists and the turns that were scattered throughout the story. I would love to see these characters again.
May 1, 2022
Amber had never been interested in finding a boyfriend - and then she met Ben and Mason. But what secrets are each of the men hiding? Is she safe with either one of them? What will she learn about herself? Great intrigue - loved it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 2, 2022
Wow, this book had so many twists and turns, and let’s just say that I was not expecting this level of epicness. Without giving anything away, I’ll just say that was one wild ride. Oh and Anwir. *chefs kiss*
I received an ARC in exchange for my review, but this book is amazing and these opinions are my own.
I received an ARC in exchange for my review, but this book is amazing and these opinions are my own.
May 31, 2022
I definitely really enjoyed this book. It gave me a lot of vibes that were similar to the Fallen Series but definitely on a much more adult level.
I couldn't get enough of Anwir and Amber. I really wanted the story to keep going!
I couldn't get enough of Anwir and Amber. I really wanted the story to keep going!
October 16, 2022
It was dark and angsty. I did like this book, but I think it was a little slow for me. The insta-love trope is one of my favorites. I believe in love at first sight. Some parts were sweet, but others were a little darker. It does make your heart hurt and ache.
May 2, 2022
This wasn’t what I expected but was not bad it has potential
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