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Truth & Lies #1

The Truth Keeps Silent: (A Second Chance Romantic Suspense)

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Where do you run when everything has been stripped away?

Starting over hasn't gone well for Mercedes Elliott. Leaving the trauma of San Francisco behind and moving to London felt right at the time. But six months later, she's isolated, dependent on a volatile relationship with her boyfriend, Jason Marsh, and no closer to rebuilding her once promising legal career. Running low on hope, Mercedes reaches out to the one man she never thought she'd see again.

Former British Intelligence officer Alec McKinley always regretted letting Mercedes slip through his fingers. So when she invites him for coffee, he jumps at the chance to see her. Warm, funny and still stunningly beautiful, Alec finds himself as drawn to her as ever. Despite her cheerful smile, he can't ignore the pain hiding in her eyes. What's happened in the last three years to bring about such a change?

When Jason's obsession with Mercedes comes to a violent head, she finds herself unable to run from his far reaching grasp. That is, until Alec makes an unexpected offer that could be Mercedes' safe haven. Can Alec give her the shelter she needs? Or will she only find herself lost in a new storm...

392 pages, Paperback

Published April 20, 2021

304 people are currently reading
1806 people want to read

About the author

A.V. Asher

10 books135 followers
A.V. Asher was one of those kids who always got in trouble for reading in class. Although she has been creating wild stories since childhood, she only recently began writing them down.

A former elementary school teacher, she now dedicates her time to her family and to chasing her publishing dreams. A.V. lives in Northern Nevada with her husband and three children.


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5 stars
323 (49%)
4 stars
237 (36%)
3 stars
75 (11%)
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16 (2%)
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5 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
Profile Image for Sakshi.
259 reviews51 followers
March 16, 2022
3.5 Stars

This book reminded me of Forgiving Lies and Deceiving Lies from the Forgiving Lies series by Molly McAdams, which was buddy read with Aksa.

Mercedes and Alec were great together. The plot was quite dramatic. And the secondary characters were interesting.

Though, this book doesn't really end on a cliffhanger, it is not the end.
I need a break, after which I shall read the next book.
Profile Image for Garnet Christie.
Author 9 books149 followers
April 24, 2021
Sadie and Alec's story had me holding my breath each time a chapter ended. It also gave me the worst book hang over I've had in years.
The suspense element is perfectly done. The villains in this book are easy to dislike. Alec is one of my top book boyfriends, and Sadie is one of my favorite heroines.
Sadie stay's strong and brave. She goes through so much and has moments where she's scared, but never comes across as weak.
Alec is the perfect hero. All Alpha, but so caring, thoughtful and sweet. You could literally feel the love he has for Sadie bursting through the pages.
Bonus, the steamy stuff was hot and I couldn't get enough! Every scene left me wanting more.
AV weaves everything like a pro and I couldn't believe this was her first book.
Also... THAT ENDING!
I'm desperately waiting for book two. The ending made me cry and I want to see what happens next.
If you love romance suspense with sexy heroes, strong women, and despisable villains, served up a kick a** plot, download this book!
Profile Image for Megan.
796 reviews26 followers
December 2, 2024
Downloaded this book during one of the Stuff Your Kindle Days and it was…fine. It felt overly dramatic and I think I would have preferred to have the plot resolved in one book instead of going to a second. I probably won’t read the next because I didn’t feel super invested in the characters but still.

POV: multiple third person

You can expect: romantic suspense, second chance, musician FMC, private security/personal protection officer MMC, rescue, only one bed, forced proximity, one night stand turned more.

Rep: Scottish MMC, queer side, panic attack, synesthesia, PTSD, trauma

Spice: 2/5

CW: domestic violence, assault, stabbing and knife wound, use of roofies (not by MCs)
Profile Image for Kailey.
407 reviews3 followers
April 11, 2021
This is a heart-pounding romantic suspense novel that will keep you on your toes and turning the pages! Sadie and Alec have a chemistry that is difficult to ignore, even in face of great danger. These two overcome numerous obstacles in this book and learn not just about the danger that follows Sadie but also learn how to communicate with one another. I really enjoyed this one and will be looking forward to the next book.

*Note: This book does end on a cliffhanger

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Cassie Swindon.
Author 33 books441 followers
April 8, 2021
Did I wish Jason would tumble down a flight of stairs and break his neck, and then be sliced into a million pieces with a fork? Yes, yes I did. Because…. he deserves it. Did I have steamy dreams about Alec shirtless? Yes, yes I did. Was I rooting for Mercedes the whole novel? You, betchya. I loved her as a protagonist.

This author does a great job of keeping the reader’s attention and turning the pages to find out what happens. There were so many times where I was thinking, “Come on, already! Just kiss for goodness sakes!” then on the next page was on the edge of my seat, screaming, “Run away, you fool!”

Some of those violent scenes were not for the faint of heart. I wasn’t as familiar with the setting abroad, but that’s okay, it still worked since I could still imagine the locations of the scenes. I recommend this book for those who like slow romantic burns and questionable/suspenseful outcomes regarding the antagonist. I can’t wait to read the sequel in the fall.
Profile Image for Maxine Keith.
105 reviews7 followers
March 13, 2021
What an incredible book!!! A must read!!!
Not just a simple romance, The Truth Keeps Silent is an intriguing tale of who did it tied with who loves who. Suspenseful, romantic, sexy!!! Gorgeous settings support likeable/hate worthy characters. The storyline is solid and keeps you wanting more. I devoured this massive novel in twelve hours then was left with a two day hangover. The Truth Keeps Silent is a definite must read for the year!!!
Profile Image for S.A. Michelle.
Author 11 books319 followers
May 18, 2021
An amazing debut novel! Mercedes is on the run from her ex. She turns to Alex when she needs help. I loved the characters development, the action, the storyline, and trying to figure out why the “villains” where really after Sadie. I absolutely adore the steamy aspects of the book, and I can just imagine shirtless Alex. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series. The ending of this book left me wanting more.
Profile Image for Brandi .
129 reviews5 followers
April 30, 2021
AV Asher is an author you need to follow! “The Truth Keeps Silent” is an epic debut novel. This book blew me away. If you enjoy Romantic Suspense, this book needs to be added to your TBR list!

From the author:
“Where do you run when everything has been stripped away?

Starting over hasn’t gone well for Mercedes Elliott. After making the biggest mistake of her life, moving halfway across the world felt right at the time. But six months later, she’s isolated, dependent on a dangerous relationship with her boyfriend, Jason Marsh, and no closer to rebuilding her once promising legal career. Running low on hope, Mercedes secretly reaches out to the one man she never thought she’d see again. Former British Intelligence officer Alec McKinley always regretted letting Mercedes slip through his fingers. So when she invites him for coffee, he jumps at the chance to see her. Warm, funny, and still stunningly beautiful, Mercedes draws Alec in as much as ever. But despite her cheerful smile, he can’t ignore the pain hiding in her eyes. After Jason’s obsession with Mercedes comes to a violent head, she finds herself unable to escape his suffocating grasp. That is, until Alec makes an unexpected offer that could be Mercedes’s saving grace. But accepting that offer comes at a cost. Being near Alec ignites a flame she thought had burned out long ago. And when they realize Jason is not the man they thought he was, she and Alec uncover a stunning truth about the past that will change everything between them.”

What I Liked About This Book:

I was amazed by how well written this book is for a debut novel. I really enjoyed the characters, the twists and turns throughout the novel, and even the triggering content was relatable and realistic. I enjoyed learning more about the background between the various characters. I literally read this book in ONE DAY. I could NOT put it down. I was very invested in the characters and into the story. I can not wait for book 2!

Why You Should Read This Book:

AV Asher has proven herself as a Romantic Suspense author with her debut novel. The Truth Keeps Silent is fast paced, with a well developed plot, storyline, relatable characters and experiences.

**CONTENT WARNING**

For mature audiences only. 18+. Contains explicit sex scenes, strong language and violence.
Profile Image for maddy.
231 reviews53 followers
February 15, 2022
.

Fantastic suspense-thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish!
Is this really the author's debut?
Ms Asher, you blew me away.🔥🤯
Just. Wow.





H: 5 stars. H Alec reminds me of Logan from Mindf*ck Series. 😍
h: 4.5 stars
Side characters: 5 stars
Story: 5 stars
Execution: 5 stars
Smut: 3.5 stars


Safety triggers⚠️



📍Cliffy! Be sure you have book #2 on hand.😁

〰️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for valerieamanda09.
275 reviews11 followers
September 20, 2021
I received this as an ARC for an honest review. This book is amazing. You can not help but become invested in the story, along with the characters. Secrets that were buried are coming to light. Mercedes ( Sadie) is in an abusive relationship with her boyfriend Jason. She seeks help from Alec that works for a security firm. Sadie rekindles a romance that she thought that was once lost. I cannot wait to read more from this author. I cannot believe this Is her first book to be published. Once I started reading, I knew that I was hooked and wanted to read more, I cannot wait to read more from this author.
68 reviews2 followers
April 9, 2021
What a Page Turner!

First let me start by saying that I received this book for free by being selected by the ARC Team.

The Truth Keeps Silent is AV Asher’s debut novel, but you wouldn’t believe it because it was beautifully written. This is the first book in the Truth & Lies Duet.

This was a reverting page-turner suspense thriller of corruption, murder, and greed--I went down the rabbit whole and into the dark world of the pharmaceutical industry and its corruption. Don’t be fooled tho, this is mainly about two characters, Mercedes and Alec, who are trying to find their happily ever after.

This book comes with content warning to readers. I often second guess myself when reading books that come with warnings. However, I am happy to say that this book superseded my expectations. I think that character development played a huge role in my decision to give it ago. I did not stop reading until I was finished. I read the whole thing in one go. Yeah, it was that amazing.

Af first we get to experience the toxic relationship between Mercedes, a California corporate attorney, and Jason, a “computer programmer”. This is a relationship that centers in lies and manipulation, where Jason often sees Mercedes as his property and a sexual object. There were moments when I wanted to reach into the page and protect Mercedes from the beatings she was receiving. I don’t wanna give too much away, but I have a feeling Jason will be back in the second book. His obsession knows no bounds.

Now, on to Alec, head of McKinley Security and Risk Management, and Mercedes. Wow their chemistry was palpable. I was happy to experience their reunion after what Jason did, his actions set things into motion and down the rabbit whole I went. We also learn the reason why they broke up.

Alec and the team become Mercedes’ saviors. We learn that Jason is not who he says he is. There is a bigger threat, and the team must learn to adapt and keep Mercedes alive. The intimate moments were scorching hot. Who doesn’t like a hot Scottish man. I know I do.

Obviously there is much more to tell, I was not disappointed even at the end knowing I am gonna wait a few months for the second book.

I am not great at delivering book reviews, but I still want to covey that this really is a great read. Is there a cliffhanger? You bet your ass there is, now I gotta wait till this fall for the conclusion to their story. That’s ok, I would wait years to see what comes next. I am invested in this story.

I have added this autor to my favorites list. How can I not, if this is her first novel then I am hooked!
Profile Image for Sarah Roupp.
96 reviews1 follower
May 11, 2021
Debut Author, A.V. Asher, has a winner with "The Truth Keeps Silent." This suspense/thriller and second-chamce romance is nail-biting at times and super sexy at others.

Mercedes is a woman in a bad relationship that keeps going from bad to worse. She enlists the help of former-boyfriend, Alec, to help her escape the clever clutches of Jason and his all-knowing cronies. A whirlwind adventure ensues and you won't see the surprising twists coming.

Rating on a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being exceptional), this is how I rank the following aspects of "The Truth Keeps Silent":
- Quality of writing: 10/10
- Pace: 10/10
- Plot development: 10/10
- Characters: 10/10
- Enjoyability: 10/10
- Ease of Reading: 10/10

In addition, I was enthralled with this book from the first page. It's easy to understand and empathize with Mercedes throughout her story. Alec is easy to fall in love with, the accent makes it 10 times better too. Jason, thankfully, is easy to hate. While I typically don't enjoy multiple points-of-view, I enjoyed the multiple POVs in this book because it allowed the reader to understand all aspects of the story. The plot development was spot on, I truly didn't feel the story drag too slow or move too fast. It definitely left me wanting more in the end.  I'm absolutely looking forward to the second book in this Duet for more Sadie and Alec! Book 2, "The Lies that Shatter," is set for an Autumn 2021 release.

I'd recommend this book to those who enjoy: second-chance romance and suspense/thrillers. Overall, I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. ☆☆☆☆☆
488 reviews7 followers
April 20, 2021
This book is about an American woman named Mercedes (Sadie) who needs to run from her boyfriend, Jason. A former British MI6 officer (Alec) who now runs a security agency begins to protect her. There is a dramatic and violent event in Part I that hooks readers into the action of the story. There is a nice counterpoint between the insanity and violent nature of Jason and the kindness and helpfulness of Alec, who actually turns out to be her boyfriend three years before. Readers need to solve the mystery of why they broke up, each thinking the other didn't want to be together anymore. There is a great description of Sadie's awesome musical abilities, though she is now looking for work in the legal field. There are dangerous, attacks as Jason and his mysterious friends are after Sadie. And readers need to solve another mystery, about why they are all so intent on finding (and capturing) her, beyond the obvious obsession Jason has with her, There are many dangerous, vicious attacks throughout the book, so readers need to be aware - things get pretty violent! There is an intense attraction between Sadie and Alec and some wonderful love scenes ( it is a ROMANTIC suspense book, after all). Readers need to discover if Sadie can be kept safe, if she can ever be rid of Jason, and if she and Alec can ever have an HEA. I do NOT like cliffhangers but the book is definitely worth reading anyway, and now I have more to look forward to when the sequel comes out.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Michelle Duncan.
545 reviews10 followers
May 10, 2021
This story was so freaking good! I can't believe this is the debut novel for this author.

The plot was fantastic. Just as I thought I had an idea of what was going to be coming next, I quickly got thrown for the perfect loop and I was back to square one of guessing what the heck was coming next. The torment Sadie goes through with her abusive ex Jason, followed up with the passion and protectiveness she experiences rekindling with Alec had me going through all of the feels! I love when a book takes me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions and this book did just that.

The suspense, romance and all that came in between had me hooked on this book and finishing it the same day. I would put it down just to come back 10 minutes later because I HAD TO KNOW what happened next!

I will be waiting patiently for the next part of the series to come out.
Profile Image for AND 1515.
1,279 reviews15 followers
May 7, 2021
The quiet before the raging storm.
by and1515

Sadie, could almost feel the walls slowly moving in threatening to swallow her whole.
Well that's how her boyfriend made her feel; constantly living under a microscope.
Even when she'd been brave enough to take the risk
he knew how to reel her right back in and all he had to do was utter those three little words he'd memorized; but obviously never had any intentions of actually changing.
Yet she was smart enough to take her sister's advice and at least try even if nothing happened she at least tried.
Sadie should have realized something wasn't quite right the minute she saw her boyfriend and the biggest clue should have been when his demeanor quickly morphed into an ugly mindless monster.
However today was finally the day she put on her big girl breeches and take back control of her life.
To bad her ex-boyfriend would never truly let her go his obsession with her was a horrible sickness that knew no boundaries.
Unfortunately it was only a matter of time before an insane catogory five hurricane hit them all.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Colleen Daley.
315 reviews32 followers
May 17, 2021
I would recommend reading when you have uninterrupted time on your hands. I could not put this book down and even growled at my husband for interrupting me while I was reading it. This is one of the absolute best romantic suspense stories I have ever read. The intrigue, the pain, and the intertwining love story were so well written and flowed together amazingly. Mercedes and Alec will tear your heart out and then mend it back together. I may lose my mind waiting for the second book to find out what happens to them.
155 reviews2 followers
April 21, 2021
What a book!!!! I couldn't put it down. In received this as an ARC for an honest review. Totally amazing!!
The story of Mercedes and Alec is a great love story, but don't let that fool you. Mercedes and Alec lost their relationship only to rekindle it 3 years later when Mercedes seeks Alec out for help and as she try to escape her abusive current relationship. There are twists and turns that you don't see coming.
I cant wait to read the other books in this series.
Profile Image for Amy Reierson.
1,354 reviews18 followers
May 8, 2021
Wow!
For a debut novel wow just really seems appropriate! I don't read a ton of suspense, mystery, who done it, or anything to intense of that nature. But I had read the blurb and reached out to the Author and was lucky enough to get an advanced copy.
I was not disappointed at all, infact I'm so excited to have discovered this writer the characters were well developed. The plot kept me interested and engaged the entire time. There was romance with a strong Alpha male and a strong female character as well. Excellent enemies you love to hate. It was just everything you could want in a great book when your look to escape!
I will definitely be recommending this to anyone look for some excitement or a new Author!

I have voluntarily left this review.
Profile Image for Chey.
1,494 reviews50 followers
May 12, 2021
Normally this is not my type of romance novel I would pick up,, HOWEVER, This romantic suspense has everything you need for an incredible read. You have suspense, phenomenal character development, an intriguing plot line that MAKES SENSE, and some nice steamy scenes.
I could not put this book down once I started reading it. I read this in one sitting and I can guarantee you will not be disappointed if you pick this one up.
Profile Image for Crystal.
2,715 reviews1 follower
May 11, 2021
The Truth Keeps Silent is a book you don't want to miss! The author drew me in from the start, and kept me captivated till the very end. It has plenty of suspense, intrique, and mystery. The twists and turns kept me guessing, which I liked. So many times I thought I had figured something out, then Bam! Another thing would happen. For a debut novel this author has written a well thought out, riveting story. I really can't wait to read the next book in the Truth & Lies Duet.



10 reviews
December 21, 2021
Great book

Great book. Keeps you hanging. Didn’t want to put it down. Good characters. When you think everything is okay something happens
Profile Image for Kate Martin.
54 reviews
July 26, 2024
I had low expectations for this book and it actually was a lot better than what I had originally thought. Underestimated plot and writing. If you want a cute and drama filled love story I would recommend.
Profile Image for S Mears.
53 reviews2 followers
May 12, 2021
Oh wow!!! I don’t even know where to begin with this book. I was in love with Sadie and Alec from the beginning. AV did an amazing job mixing the action and the adrenaline rushes with the romance and tension. I can’t wait for book 2.
Profile Image for Kari.
233 reviews6 followers
June 27, 2025
WOW. I came into this book with super low expectations, but ended up enjoying it so much! Poor Mercedes has been through the ringer, but I absolutely adore her and Alec and their story of coming back together. I’m a bit concerned about the next book because I have a feeling it’s going to *hurt* but we shall see. Also Jason can rot in hell tyvm.
Profile Image for norangal.
742 reviews1 follower
May 17, 2021
the intro was okay but I kinda stopped at 37%
its just not for me unfortunately ~
Profile Image for Book Babe Jazzie.
270 reviews1 follower
November 4, 2025
I got this book from a Stuff Your Kindle situation and when I say I am so glad that I got this and finally picked it up!

In this story you follow Sadie and is living in London with her boyfriend, who you can tell is super controlling/ abusive (if you know the signs you see them right away). Something happened to Sadie in California so moved to London with Jason (the boyfriend). Sadie was a lawyer and she is trying to get a job and on a call with her sister she is told to reach out to Alec.

Now Alec is Sadie’s ex and let’s just say that the relationship ended abruptly and without explanation on both part (this is explained later). So Sadie is iffy at first but she say bump it she is going to have a meeting with Alec to try and get some help on the job front.

They meet for lunch and basically this is where everything hits the fan. Her boyfriend has her being watched and followed and they tell him she met with Alec (mind you he told her to NEVER reach out to him). When Jason comes home after hearing this he sees red and beats Sadie bad… almost kills her.

Let’s just say this is where the story starts and when I tell you it was a ride from start to finish! Phew!!! Absolutely wild! It was so good that I’m literally diving into the second asap cause I need to finish off their love story! This is the type of yearning I want, the type of suspense, the type of everything!

It is written in third person which I think definitely adds waaayyy more to the story!
Absolute banging and it’s a yes! Go read!
2 reviews
May 26, 2025
This book was such a pleasant surprise, I could not put it down. It’s one where you can really tell how much careful thought was put not only into the characters and arcs, but to plot and pacing, as well. The conflicts didn’t feel contrived and had just enough realism that I had no problem seeing it play out in my head. The author understands morally grey—the main characters were so rich and properly fleshed out, you can’t help but really root for them as you would your own friends.

One of the best things for me about this book is how much personality Alec has. I think authors tend to gravitate towards brooding, quiet, but one-dimensional male leads, which certainly has its appeals, but can get repetitive. We vividly see Alec go through a thousand emotions right alongside Sadie which only served to convince me of his devotion. As one reviewer said, “You can feel his love for her jump from the pages.”

The plot and execution are impressive, so much so that I kept remarking, “Smart!”. Again, you can see how much of a labour of love this is. It kept me in suspense without being overly done. Pacing was good, downtime when it’s right, and action when it’s needed.

Love, sexual tension, and yearning in spades. And I loved that their emotional attraction was given just as much, if not more, attention than the physical. The longing in this series is *chef’s kiss*. Oh, how I love love.

Overall, I highly recommend.
Profile Image for Nerys McCabe.
Author 10 books15 followers
May 8, 2021
This is quite simply one of the best books I have ever read! Not only does it give you the most passionate romance, it also takes you on a journey of twists and turns that will keep you hooked until the very last word.

It is hard to believe that this is AV Asher’s debut; this author has a natural talent for creating wonderful relationships, steamy scenes, heartbreaking moments and a plot that is brilliantly structured.

What I love the most about this debut is the way the story cleverly unfolds. The reader learns the tense details when the characters do so you feel like you’re on the journey with them. I was so invested in Sadie and Alec that I never wanted it to end.
The multi points-of-view is also very clever, particularly getting into the mind of a character that you definitely will not like. This element of intrigue is inspiring and makes the writing even more intense; I shouted at the book a few times.

The story leaves you out of breath and wanting more: shouting, crying and deeply in love with the characters.
AV Asher is an intelligent writer with a brilliant mind. It will be turned into a film as soon as someone spots it! I recommend this so highly. If you love romantic suspense you will LOVE this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews

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