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These Wicked Lies #2
These Wicked Truths
After a single life-altering recollection, Astrid flees Hakran. She wants nothing more than to put space between her and the men who continuously upend her life, even if it means halting the search for her memories and forsaking her friendships.
But when she gets word that Stellaris has been attacked and that Lex and Dash are working together—albeit reluctantly—she decides it’s time to face her faults. Together, the trio embark on a tense journey to Stellaris to discover who is behind the provocation, while simultaneously learning how the incident relates to Astrid’s missing memories and the late Goddess of Deception’s motivations.
Astrid must figure out how to navigate these wicked truths, while torn between her two identities and the two men taking up space in her heart.
But when she gets word that Stellaris has been attacked and that Lex and Dash are working together—albeit reluctantly—she decides it’s time to face her faults. Together, the trio embark on a tense journey to Stellaris to discover who is behind the provocation, while simultaneously learning how the incident relates to Astrid’s missing memories and the late Goddess of Deception’s motivations.
Astrid must figure out how to navigate these wicked truths, while torn between her two identities and the two men taking up space in her heart.
422 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 23, 2023
52 people are currently reading
557 people want to read
About the author
Miranda Joy
10 books157 followersMiranda is a fan of all things magical and romantic. She believes some of the best heroes come from dark pasts, and family is more than blood. She loves writing about strong characters who overcome unpleasant situations and find love along the way.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
March 7, 2023
Well, cheers to another book I just couldn't put down. These Wicked Truths is the second book in the These Wicked Lies series, and there is just so much for us to learn about this world that has morphed from book 1 into so much...more...
This story has captivating men, complex emotions, humor, and much more. We watch Astrid struggle through the changes life has thrown her way, growing and morphing into who she is by the end of the book.
This is a hard one to review without spoilers, so...if you read book 1...just read it. It's worth it.
This story has captivating men, complex emotions, humor, and much more. We watch Astrid struggle through the changes life has thrown her way, growing and morphing into who she is by the end of the book.
This is a hard one to review without spoilers, so...if you read book 1...just read it. It's worth it.
May 13, 2023
This book isn't bad, but it also lags for an extremely long time. For this, I was not able to complete this book. Furthermore, when I read the first book, I was unaware that apparently this series is a "why choose" romance. *If someone reads this book and this review, please comment if that is correct. Now, I have nothing against "why choose" and reverse harem tropes, but they're just not my cup of tea.
I did enjoy the fact that Astrid/Aife grew into her powers and was struggling to balance her mental health, duties, and powers all at once.
2/5, DNF.
I did enjoy the fact that Astrid/Aife grew into her powers and was struggling to balance her mental health, duties, and powers all at once.
2/5, DNF.
February 18, 2023
With the defeat of Enira, Astrid has much to sift through in her emotions and thoughts at all the revelations. When she isolates herself, the wolf continues to turn but those that care for her and that she cares for still watch over her. Dash is the king of Hakran but doesn’t really enjoy any of it. Lex just wants the love of his fated to come back with her memories. When a letter comes from Dash’s home country insinuating war, Astrid, Lex and Daah along with some of their friends, journey to Stellaris to help. But when they arrive….there may be so much more for them to deal with and can they handle the electricity between the three of them as well???
I LOVED this! Miranda once again brings a tale of continued complexity and twists! Eager for book three!!
I LOVED this! Miranda once again brings a tale of continued complexity and twists! Eager for book three!!
February 1, 2023
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of These Wicked Truths! These Wicked Lies is one of my favorite books, and I have been wanting for book 2 since I read an early copy of TWL. The wait was so worth it. I loved every second of reading this book. Being back with these characters, in this world, felt like coming home.
The first book ends on an amazing cliffhanger, and These Wicked Truths picked up right after. Joy really took me on an unforgettable rollercoaster with this one, and I enjoyed it so much. There was so much action and world building (without info dumps) that made me not want to set this book down. I really enjoyed seeing new places that were just mentioned in the first book. The imagery was done so well, and I truly felt like I was write there with the characters.
I was so happy to get Dash and Lex’s POV along with Astrid/Aife’s in this sequel. I loved seeing each of the character’s relationships in different lights (especially the why choose moments) and the character growth through each of the POV was so good, especially Aife’s. I feel as if in some fantasy series there is major growth from the MC in the first book, but then it is stagnant in the rest of the series. This wasn’t the case in this series, and I felt like it was a lot more realistic. Yes, Aife did grow from the start of the first book, but she still had her struggles in this book and continued to grow and still has demons to conquer in the next book. Overall, seeing the three main characters characters and amazing side characters grow as people, as well as their relationships with each other developing more, was so wonderful.
This ending. A classic Miranda Joy plot twist right here. I was so shocked. But it also made since. The foreshadowing was immaculate and the at the end all the puzzle pieces came together perfectly with jagged edges to make room for book three’s pieces. I already have questions and theories about book 3 on how that puzzle will grow and change. The cliffhanger of book 1 made me antsy for more, but the suspense of this one tops it, and I seriously can’t wait for book 3.
There was no sequel slump here. This series is so good. and I highly recommend it. If you’re a fan of fast paced romantasy with shocking twists, magic, why choose, grumpy/sunshine, enemies to lovers, what are you waiting for? This series is for you!
The first book ends on an amazing cliffhanger, and These Wicked Truths picked up right after. Joy really took me on an unforgettable rollercoaster with this one, and I enjoyed it so much. There was so much action and world building (without info dumps) that made me not want to set this book down. I really enjoyed seeing new places that were just mentioned in the first book. The imagery was done so well, and I truly felt like I was write there with the characters.
I was so happy to get Dash and Lex’s POV along with Astrid/Aife’s in this sequel. I loved seeing each of the character’s relationships in different lights (especially the why choose moments) and the character growth through each of the POV was so good, especially Aife’s. I feel as if in some fantasy series there is major growth from the MC in the first book, but then it is stagnant in the rest of the series. This wasn’t the case in this series, and I felt like it was a lot more realistic. Yes, Aife did grow from the start of the first book, but she still had her struggles in this book and continued to grow and still has demons to conquer in the next book. Overall, seeing the three main characters characters and amazing side characters grow as people, as well as their relationships with each other developing more, was so wonderful.
This ending. A classic Miranda Joy plot twist right here. I was so shocked. But it also made since. The foreshadowing was immaculate and the at the end all the puzzle pieces came together perfectly with jagged edges to make room for book three’s pieces. I already have questions and theories about book 3 on how that puzzle will grow and change. The cliffhanger of book 1 made me antsy for more, but the suspense of this one tops it, and I seriously can’t wait for book 3.
There was no sequel slump here. This series is so good. and I highly recommend it. If you’re a fan of fast paced romantasy with shocking twists, magic, why choose, grumpy/sunshine, enemies to lovers, what are you waiting for? This series is for you!
March 26, 2023
HOLY GODDESS! Miranda has done it again y'all!
These Wicked Lies (book 1) was my favorite book of 2022. It leaves off on a cliffhanger that makes you craving more. The good thing is that TWT picks up right where TWL left off.
THESE WICKED TRUTHS DID NOT DISAPPOINT.
In true MJ fashion, the first 50% is on the slower side, but ONLY so she can hit you with a bus load of chaos.
As always, the world-building is on point. Miranda's writing is absolutely beautiful. She is insanely talented. Her attention to detail is mind-blowing. Her brain impresses me so much.
The multiple POVs were written so well. It was amazing to be inside each of their minds. I felt like it was so easy to connect with them because you can feel every single emotion. All of the emotions are REAL, so that also made a huge difference to me. I felt like I was on an emotional rollercoaster with Astrid/Aife and it was a blast. I'd ride it again. It was awesome to be able to watch her regain her memories, but also kind of heartbreaking.
MY BABY CALLAN IS SO PRECIOUS. I just want to hug him. He loves his bestie Aife so much.
Lex & Dash were super seductive and sexy as hell. But, what's new?! Thank goodness we don't have to choose between those two...because I LEGIT CANNOT. The MFM was just the right amount of spice for the direction of this book. My favorite part of the book was watching their relationship evolve and deepen.
The ending tore me to pieces though😭💔
BRAVO MJ 👏🏻
These Wicked Lies (book 1) was my favorite book of 2022. It leaves off on a cliffhanger that makes you craving more. The good thing is that TWT picks up right where TWL left off.
THESE WICKED TRUTHS DID NOT DISAPPOINT.
In true MJ fashion, the first 50% is on the slower side, but ONLY so she can hit you with a bus load of chaos.
As always, the world-building is on point. Miranda's writing is absolutely beautiful. She is insanely talented. Her attention to detail is mind-blowing. Her brain impresses me so much.
The multiple POVs were written so well. It was amazing to be inside each of their minds. I felt like it was so easy to connect with them because you can feel every single emotion. All of the emotions are REAL, so that also made a huge difference to me. I felt like I was on an emotional rollercoaster with Astrid/Aife and it was a blast. I'd ride it again. It was awesome to be able to watch her regain her memories, but also kind of heartbreaking.
MY BABY CALLAN IS SO PRECIOUS. I just want to hug him. He loves his bestie Aife so much.
Lex & Dash were super seductive and sexy as hell. But, what's new?! Thank goodness we don't have to choose between those two...because I LEGIT CANNOT. The MFM was just the right amount of spice for the direction of this book. My favorite part of the book was watching their relationship evolve and deepen.
The ending tore me to pieces though😭💔
BRAVO MJ 👏🏻
March 9, 2023
To see my full review, plus many more, visit my book review blog by clicking the link HERE
Many thanks you's to Miranda for an E-ARC copy in exchange for an honest review!
**Warning! My Review Does Contain Spoilers from the Previous Book, so continue reading at your own risk! You’ve officially been warned!**
Total Star Rating: 4.25 Stars
If you’re someone who really enjoyed the first book in this series, I’m going to safely assume you’re going to freakin’ LOVE this second book even more!
Miranda Joy had an interesting journey to partake on this sequel, at least in my opinion…I was very curious as to how she was going to keep the story going after what felt like a major conflict was resolved in the ending of TWL with how Astrid/Aife literally slew(?) the head off her (fake) mother’s head! Hats off to her! With Enira’s death, what else was there to keep the story going and keep the audience’s attention?? This book fills you in on those questions if you too had them, and it really encapsulates how much bigger the world the author created truly is. I was worried I wouldn’t like it as much and that there was going to be that sequel slump like there is with so many other books, but *HUGE sigh of relief* that isn’t the case.
The story continues literally right where we left off in the previous book: Enira’s beheaded body is, like, STILL gushing blood it’s so fresh and Astrid/Aife and Lex are having a hot AF tongue lashing competition with each other, much to the spice loving readers’ delight. Aife finally learns the truth of who she is, but unfortunately her memories are still locked away somewhere and definitely is suffering a bit of an identity crisis…she’s hurt from all the lies, but she has to live with the lives she’s hurt too; it’s a lot to come to terms with…
While she’s hiding away in Nevaris, Lex gives her space and Dash rules Hakran and they form a VERYT reluctant alliance in order to help her find her missing memories, BUT WAIT THERE’S MORE!! You also learn that Stellaris is under attack and the looming threat of war is literally washing up on its shores. Soon, they are forced to leave and come to aid, but lets just say……….who, or what, they find is not at all what they expect……………..
To be honest, everything just felt very elevated in this book! The sexual tension, the comedy, the characterization and their development, the way the story is told with multiple POV’s, even the stakes of the main conflict were raised; it felt like the author became more comfortable with her craft. Sure the pacing beginning was slower than I cared for, but once this book got going, oh honey did it get going!
What I Liked:
1. The Why Choose/Reverse Harem Romance! Someone go back in time and slap Bella Swan for being so stupid, because WHY CHOOSE/REVERSE HAREM is the REAL love triangle we all needed back then as much as we do now! Like seriously, why WOULD you choose when there are TWO very eligible men vying for your attention?? The added sexual tension with Dash and Lex sharing Astrid/Aife was a FOR SURE highlight in this book!
2. The Mental Health Rep! Astrid/Aife’s mental journey was so spectacularly well done and was a great example of showing mental health awareness in literature! As someone who now works in a therapy office where mental health understanding is so important, we loves to see it! Astrid/Aife has a lot going on inside her head, and I thought it was a very organic, natural, and believable way of how her internal journey was portrayed with all this. It’s a part that might be overlooked by some readers, but I think others who’ve had a similar mental struggle will really appreciate this addition to the story! I know I do!
3. We Got Both More POV’s! I personally love fantasy books that have multiple points-of-views within, so adding Lex and Dash to telling this story I think was a great decision and added a lot more depth to the story. It was nice to see certain things from their perspective and not just Astrid’s this time around. It made both men more well rounded characters with more complexities added to them and thus making them more memorable this time around!
4. Callan! Callan got way more attention this time around, and he is absolutely EVERYTHING I love in a comedic-relief side character. First, he’s like an all powerful, celestial being and yet he’s like a human golden retriever! And Second, I love the friendship and advice he has with Aife throughout too. I’d marry him in a heartbeat!
What I Didn’t Like:
1. The Slower Pacing at the Beginning…I’m not going to lie, the beginning was slower than I was hoping for and made for me struggling to first get into this book. It was much more character driven and was more about the inner journey, and the romance/spice was pretty slow burn too, so I was just rather impatient for a lot of the beginning. BUT when this book gets going, it GETS GOING!
2. I Want to Like Dash, But I’m So Torn…I like Dash, but I don’t….he’s a frustrating character and I actually enjoy that about him! He drives emotion from me and makes me care, even though its frustration…He reminds me a little bit of a mix of Chaol and Cassian in my opinion, two AMAZING Sarah J. Maas characters. Like Chaol, I believe Dash is who he is and not everyone is going to agree with that. Still though, I’m so torn on him!!
Conclusion:
Overall, this second installment in Miranda Joy’s These Wicked Lies was an improvement on intensity, sensuality, comedy, and also a little bit of a maturing in terms of both the author’s writing and the story she’s weaved together here. It’s not perfect, but I argue you definitely see improvement!
My worries of how this story was going to continue have disappeared like a puff of smoke, I think the author has a great handle on what they’re doing and their publication future continues to look bright!
Thanks for Reading!
- Nick Goodsell
Many thanks you's to Miranda for an E-ARC copy in exchange for an honest review!
**Warning! My Review Does Contain Spoilers from the Previous Book, so continue reading at your own risk! You’ve officially been warned!**
Total Star Rating: 4.25 Stars
If you’re someone who really enjoyed the first book in this series, I’m going to safely assume you’re going to freakin’ LOVE this second book even more!
Miranda Joy had an interesting journey to partake on this sequel, at least in my opinion…I was very curious as to how she was going to keep the story going after what felt like a major conflict was resolved in the ending of TWL with how Astrid/Aife literally slew(?) the head off her (fake) mother’s head! Hats off to her! With Enira’s death, what else was there to keep the story going and keep the audience’s attention?? This book fills you in on those questions if you too had them, and it really encapsulates how much bigger the world the author created truly is. I was worried I wouldn’t like it as much and that there was going to be that sequel slump like there is with so many other books, but *HUGE sigh of relief* that isn’t the case.
The story continues literally right where we left off in the previous book: Enira’s beheaded body is, like, STILL gushing blood it’s so fresh and Astrid/Aife and Lex are having a hot AF tongue lashing competition with each other, much to the spice loving readers’ delight. Aife finally learns the truth of who she is, but unfortunately her memories are still locked away somewhere and definitely is suffering a bit of an identity crisis…she’s hurt from all the lies, but she has to live with the lives she’s hurt too; it’s a lot to come to terms with…
While she’s hiding away in Nevaris, Lex gives her space and Dash rules Hakran and they form a VERYT reluctant alliance in order to help her find her missing memories, BUT WAIT THERE’S MORE!! You also learn that Stellaris is under attack and the looming threat of war is literally washing up on its shores. Soon, they are forced to leave and come to aid, but lets just say……….who, or what, they find is not at all what they expect……………..
To be honest, everything just felt very elevated in this book! The sexual tension, the comedy, the characterization and their development, the way the story is told with multiple POV’s, even the stakes of the main conflict were raised; it felt like the author became more comfortable with her craft. Sure the pacing beginning was slower than I cared for, but once this book got going, oh honey did it get going!
What I Liked:
1. The Why Choose/Reverse Harem Romance! Someone go back in time and slap Bella Swan for being so stupid, because WHY CHOOSE/REVERSE HAREM is the REAL love triangle we all needed back then as much as we do now! Like seriously, why WOULD you choose when there are TWO very eligible men vying for your attention?? The added sexual tension with Dash and Lex sharing Astrid/Aife was a FOR SURE highlight in this book!
2. The Mental Health Rep! Astrid/Aife’s mental journey was so spectacularly well done and was a great example of showing mental health awareness in literature! As someone who now works in a therapy office where mental health understanding is so important, we loves to see it! Astrid/Aife has a lot going on inside her head, and I thought it was a very organic, natural, and believable way of how her internal journey was portrayed with all this. It’s a part that might be overlooked by some readers, but I think others who’ve had a similar mental struggle will really appreciate this addition to the story! I know I do!
3. We Got Both More POV’s! I personally love fantasy books that have multiple points-of-views within, so adding Lex and Dash to telling this story I think was a great decision and added a lot more depth to the story. It was nice to see certain things from their perspective and not just Astrid’s this time around. It made both men more well rounded characters with more complexities added to them and thus making them more memorable this time around!
4. Callan! Callan got way more attention this time around, and he is absolutely EVERYTHING I love in a comedic-relief side character. First, he’s like an all powerful, celestial being and yet he’s like a human golden retriever! And Second, I love the friendship and advice he has with Aife throughout too. I’d marry him in a heartbeat!
What I Didn’t Like:
1. The Slower Pacing at the Beginning…I’m not going to lie, the beginning was slower than I was hoping for and made for me struggling to first get into this book. It was much more character driven and was more about the inner journey, and the romance/spice was pretty slow burn too, so I was just rather impatient for a lot of the beginning. BUT when this book gets going, it GETS GOING!
2. I Want to Like Dash, But I’m So Torn…I like Dash, but I don’t….he’s a frustrating character and I actually enjoy that about him! He drives emotion from me and makes me care, even though its frustration…He reminds me a little bit of a mix of Chaol and Cassian in my opinion, two AMAZING Sarah J. Maas characters. Like Chaol, I believe Dash is who he is and not everyone is going to agree with that. Still though, I’m so torn on him!!
Conclusion:
Overall, this second installment in Miranda Joy’s These Wicked Lies was an improvement on intensity, sensuality, comedy, and also a little bit of a maturing in terms of both the author’s writing and the story she’s weaved together here. It’s not perfect, but I argue you definitely see improvement!
My worries of how this story was going to continue have disappeared like a puff of smoke, I think the author has a great handle on what they’re doing and their publication future continues to look bright!
Thanks for Reading!
- Nick Goodsell
February 15, 2023
These Wicked Truths is the follow-up to These Wicked Lies and it is rollercoaster ride! The story picks up right after the events of These Wicked Lies. It's very important to read TWL first, otherwise you're in for a lot of spoilers. The prologue had my jaw on the floor, and the first line of Chapter 1 hit just has hard as the opening line in TWL. I loved it!
TWT is very character driven, especially in the first half of the book, which I really enjoyed. Astrid continues to grow and find herself in this story, making leaps and bounds in her control over her emotions and reactions. Her flight or fight responses are understandable given her trauma, and I really appreciated the discussions and introspection surrounding this. I also really liked that Astrid was left to breathe. That there was time and space given to her character to deal with/come to terms with her situation, and she wasn't rushed immediately into more action/plot driven moments.
We also get insight into the two MMCs, Dash and Lex, as their POVs are included in this book. Dash's sarcasm and need to rile up those around him always made me laugh and smile. Lex is more guarded in his outward behavior, but we're able to see the extent of his care and love for those around him through his POV. Dash and Lex's interactions are hilarious, and bring lightness to some heavier moments. Some of my favorite moments are centered around Callan. He doesn't have a large role in TWL, but in TWT he really shines. Callan's sweet and funny, and has some of the best lines! He has the best timing (or worst depending on how you look at it)! His friendship with Astrid is one my favorite aspects of this story.
The romance becomes more integral to the story with both Dash and Lex wanting to be in Astrid's life. I like that Lex and Dash are such different characters, and their relationships with Astrid are reflect that. The spice is taken up a notch compared to TWL, and it's written really well. The use of the moonberries was cute, and made the progression of the scene believable given some of the characters' habit for butting heads. Callan, that little minx! Have I mentioned he's my favorite?
Just like in TWL, the action really picks up toward the end and there are several really great twists! Some of the mysteries from TWL were solved, but more mysteries have been unleashed. The ending had me begging for more, and I'm so sad that we have to wait for book 3. I really enjoyed TWT and can't wait to see what's in store for the rest of the series!
*A huge thank you to Miranda for an ARC of These Wicked Truths in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and comments are my own.*
TWT is very character driven, especially in the first half of the book, which I really enjoyed. Astrid continues to grow and find herself in this story, making leaps and bounds in her control over her emotions and reactions. Her flight or fight responses are understandable given her trauma, and I really appreciated the discussions and introspection surrounding this. I also really liked that Astrid was left to breathe. That there was time and space given to her character to deal with/come to terms with her situation, and she wasn't rushed immediately into more action/plot driven moments.
We also get insight into the two MMCs, Dash and Lex, as their POVs are included in this book. Dash's sarcasm and need to rile up those around him always made me laugh and smile. Lex is more guarded in his outward behavior, but we're able to see the extent of his care and love for those around him through his POV. Dash and Lex's interactions are hilarious, and bring lightness to some heavier moments. Some of my favorite moments are centered around Callan. He doesn't have a large role in TWL, but in TWT he really shines. Callan's sweet and funny, and has some of the best lines! He has the best timing (or worst depending on how you look at it)! His friendship with Astrid is one my favorite aspects of this story.
The romance becomes more integral to the story with both Dash and Lex wanting to be in Astrid's life. I like that Lex and Dash are such different characters, and their relationships with Astrid are reflect that. The spice is taken up a notch compared to TWL, and it's written really well. The use of the moonberries was cute, and made the progression of the scene believable given some of the characters' habit for butting heads. Callan, that little minx! Have I mentioned he's my favorite?
Just like in TWL, the action really picks up toward the end and there are several really great twists! Some of the mysteries from TWL were solved, but more mysteries have been unleashed. The ending had me begging for more, and I'm so sad that we have to wait for book 3. I really enjoyed TWT and can't wait to see what's in store for the rest of the series!
*A huge thank you to Miranda for an ARC of These Wicked Truths in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and comments are my own.*
February 19, 2023
ARC read ⭐️ released 23rd March 2023!
I have been waiting (perhaps, not so patiently) for book two of These Wicked Lies to be released, so I was DELIGHTED to be part of the arc team 💖 and I was even more exciting knowing there was a why choose storyline...
I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED ❤️🔥
Synopsis 📖:These Wicked Truths follows Astrid fleeing Hakran and shunning her friends, whilst Lex and Dash strike an unlikely alliance to help find the secret to her memories. But outside of Nevaris -where Astrid hides- and Hakran -now under the control of Dash- Stellaris is threatened, so they are forced to leave and seek to understand who, or what, is threatening the city.
Characters 💕:Astrid is struggling with her emotions and her loss of memories, but she still is bad-ass and powerful, owning her sexuality ❤️🔥 Lex and Dash really step up in TWT - their contrasting characters are perfect, Lex with his broody darkness and Dash with his puppy characteristics and constant jokes.
And the found family element intensified too 🥰 with more depth into the characters backstories, I fell in love with them just a lil bit more. Callan is a firm favourite! 💖
Spice 🌶:Okay, so first and foremost. The WHY CHOOSE storyline 😛 we have Lex, possessive God of War, and Dash, golden lab King of Hakran / Prince of Stellaris - what a delightful combination they make. It was a slowwww burn and I was waiting, absolutely not patiently, to get to the good stuff. But I was not disappointed! TWT is definitely spicier than TWL, considering the MFM sharing 🌶
Compared to TWL, I found TWT to be more intense and emotionally driven - but the fun banter still laced the story and it still made me smile. BUT it also made me SOB... I warn you - the ENDING. It is another cliffhanger (thanks Miranda... 🥹) and now we must wait until the next book... 🫠
These Wicked Truths was a perfect read after a huge book hangover (thanks to Kingdom of Ash...) with the perfect balance of plot, lore, spice, and fun 💕 I generally love Miranda's writing style and she's an amazing romantasy write IMO! ✨
Tropes & Features
• Found family 💕
• Why choose MFM 🌶
• Curses & Magic 🔮
• Gods & Goddesses 🌗
• Lost Memories ✨
• Twisty with a Cliffhanger 💥
I have been waiting (perhaps, not so patiently) for book two of These Wicked Lies to be released, so I was DELIGHTED to be part of the arc team 💖 and I was even more exciting knowing there was a why choose storyline...
I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED ❤️🔥
Synopsis 📖:These Wicked Truths follows Astrid fleeing Hakran and shunning her friends, whilst Lex and Dash strike an unlikely alliance to help find the secret to her memories. But outside of Nevaris -where Astrid hides- and Hakran -now under the control of Dash- Stellaris is threatened, so they are forced to leave and seek to understand who, or what, is threatening the city.
Characters 💕:Astrid is struggling with her emotions and her loss of memories, but she still is bad-ass and powerful, owning her sexuality ❤️🔥 Lex and Dash really step up in TWT - their contrasting characters are perfect, Lex with his broody darkness and Dash with his puppy characteristics and constant jokes.
And the found family element intensified too 🥰 with more depth into the characters backstories, I fell in love with them just a lil bit more. Callan is a firm favourite! 💖
Spice 🌶:Okay, so first and foremost. The WHY CHOOSE storyline 😛 we have Lex, possessive God of War, and Dash, golden lab King of Hakran / Prince of Stellaris - what a delightful combination they make. It was a slowwww burn and I was waiting, absolutely not patiently, to get to the good stuff. But I was not disappointed! TWT is definitely spicier than TWL, considering the MFM sharing 🌶
Compared to TWL, I found TWT to be more intense and emotionally driven - but the fun banter still laced the story and it still made me smile. BUT it also made me SOB... I warn you - the ENDING. It is another cliffhanger (thanks Miranda... 🥹) and now we must wait until the next book... 🫠
These Wicked Truths was a perfect read after a huge book hangover (thanks to Kingdom of Ash...) with the perfect balance of plot, lore, spice, and fun 💕 I generally love Miranda's writing style and she's an amazing romantasy write IMO! ✨
Tropes & Features
• Found family 💕
• Why choose MFM 🌶
• Curses & Magic 🔮
• Gods & Goddesses 🌗
• Lost Memories ✨
• Twisty with a Cliffhanger 💥
February 12, 2023
4.5⭐️/5
Release date: 23rd March
I have no words to explain how I’m feeling about this right now… the ending? Oh the ending, I think I’m gonna cry now and the cliffhanger, ugh I need book three now! I must know what happens.
I absolutely love the world and characters that Miranda has created! I loved seeing the character development from everyone especially Aife (Astrid), her development of trying to get her memories back whilst trying to figure out her relationship with everyone else; especially Lex and Dash is wonderful to see.
You can literally feel the tension, the love, the anger, the sarcasm, the sadness though every description that each character gives. It’s amazing and I love it! Especially the relationship between Dash, Lex and Aife. It’s also got three povs so who doesn’t love that?? And Callan?? He’s my best friend and I’m literally waiting for him to rock up in real life and say we’re friends. (He’s also the comedic relief, so what’s not to love about him!)
The plot?? Oohhh the plot I love it! It’s literally a mystery all the way through, where little bits gets revealed the further into the story you get. And how you figure out the story with Aife and not already know what’s gonna happen. I had some crazy theories for this story and only a few of them came true! (Not happy about one of them though it’s made me sad🥲) I’m super excited for book three and already have the theories for those based off what I’ve been told in this story.
Overall this is a brilliant book and I’d say it’s even better than the first book! Definitely go read the first book if you haven’t in preparation for this one because you’re not gonna want to miss this. I can’t wait for you all to read it and now I’m gonna sit in a corner and cry🥹
Release date: 23rd March
I have no words to explain how I’m feeling about this right now… the ending? Oh the ending, I think I’m gonna cry now and the cliffhanger, ugh I need book three now! I must know what happens.
I absolutely love the world and characters that Miranda has created! I loved seeing the character development from everyone especially Aife (Astrid), her development of trying to get her memories back whilst trying to figure out her relationship with everyone else; especially Lex and Dash is wonderful to see.
You can literally feel the tension, the love, the anger, the sarcasm, the sadness though every description that each character gives. It’s amazing and I love it! Especially the relationship between Dash, Lex and Aife. It’s also got three povs so who doesn’t love that?? And Callan?? He’s my best friend and I’m literally waiting for him to rock up in real life and say we’re friends. (He’s also the comedic relief, so what’s not to love about him!)
The plot?? Oohhh the plot I love it! It’s literally a mystery all the way through, where little bits gets revealed the further into the story you get. And how you figure out the story with Aife and not already know what’s gonna happen. I had some crazy theories for this story and only a few of them came true! (Not happy about one of them though it’s made me sad🥲) I’m super excited for book three and already have the theories for those based off what I’ve been told in this story.
Overall this is a brilliant book and I’d say it’s even better than the first book! Definitely go read the first book if you haven’t in preparation for this one because you’re not gonna want to miss this. I can’t wait for you all to read it and now I’m gonna sit in a corner and cry🥹
March 5, 2023
Thanks to the author for my Advanced Readers Copy.
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥
I thoroughly enjoyed These Wicked Lies so I was very excited to get into this book.
These Wicked Truths starts off in the aftermath of all that was revealed in book one. Astrid/Aife is having to come to terms with who she is and who she has hurt along the way. It ends up progressing into an adventure into new lands where more pieces of the puzzle are revealed. With more answers comes more questions which keep you wanting more.
I loved the character development with Astrid/Aife. In the first book she really wasn’t my favorite but towards the end of this book I started to love her.
The dual POVs is amazing. I loved how Dash’s and Lex’s thoughts and motivations are revealed. Dash and Lex have the funniest banter and I loved the spicy scenes with them. I’m so glad this was turned into a Poly relationship instead of a love triangle.
A round of applause for the side characters who were all uniquely different! I feel like a lot of the times side characters are carbon copies and not fully fleshed out but not with this book. Callan is by far my favorite with his sunny personality and humor.
This was a little slow in the beginning. While I understand it was because we were seeing Astrid/Aife come to terms with everything that was revealed in book one. I was just hoping that would have progressed quicker.
Overall, this is an amazing series. The story line is refreshingly original. If you like magic, original lore, spice, banter, found family and mystery this book is for you.
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥
I thoroughly enjoyed These Wicked Lies so I was very excited to get into this book.
These Wicked Truths starts off in the aftermath of all that was revealed in book one. Astrid/Aife is having to come to terms with who she is and who she has hurt along the way. It ends up progressing into an adventure into new lands where more pieces of the puzzle are revealed. With more answers comes more questions which keep you wanting more.
I loved the character development with Astrid/Aife. In the first book she really wasn’t my favorite but towards the end of this book I started to love her.
The dual POVs is amazing. I loved how Dash’s and Lex’s thoughts and motivations are revealed. Dash and Lex have the funniest banter and I loved the spicy scenes with them. I’m so glad this was turned into a Poly relationship instead of a love triangle.
A round of applause for the side characters who were all uniquely different! I feel like a lot of the times side characters are carbon copies and not fully fleshed out but not with this book. Callan is by far my favorite with his sunny personality and humor.
This was a little slow in the beginning. While I understand it was because we were seeing Astrid/Aife come to terms with everything that was revealed in book one. I was just hoping that would have progressed quicker.
Overall, this is an amazing series. The story line is refreshingly original. If you like magic, original lore, spice, banter, found family and mystery this book is for you.
March 3, 2023
In 3 Words: Self-aware, Playful, Incredible
Fave Quote: If you wait for a certain amount of time to pass before loving someone, you might miss your chance forever
This is EXACTLY the sequel I needed. 'Why choose' really is the new way to write a love triangle. The tension, the chemistry, the steam 🔥. It was so funny seeing Lex reluctantly have to share, but I'd be very interested in a scene with just him and Dash. It might be a good bonding experience for them 😏. I enjoyed the self-conscious references to reading habits and tropes. Astrid likes to read, so she was like "I hate the miscommunication trope so I don't want my life to become that" and I was HERE for it. There was also some very candid talk of mental health and Astrid's coping mechanisms. Random note, but I think more fantasy books should feature sloths. I love that the setting in this series is completely unlike other fantasy books I'm familiar with
Fave Quote: If you wait for a certain amount of time to pass before loving someone, you might miss your chance forever
This is EXACTLY the sequel I needed. 'Why choose' really is the new way to write a love triangle. The tension, the chemistry, the steam 🔥. It was so funny seeing Lex reluctantly have to share, but I'd be very interested in a scene with just him and Dash. It might be a good bonding experience for them 😏. I enjoyed the self-conscious references to reading habits and tropes. Astrid likes to read, so she was like "I hate the miscommunication trope so I don't want my life to become that" and I was HERE for it. There was also some very candid talk of mental health and Astrid's coping mechanisms. Random note, but I think more fantasy books should feature sloths. I love that the setting in this series is completely unlike other fantasy books I'm familiar with
March 7, 2023
Thank you to the author for an Advanced Reader Copy!
I read These Wicked Lies in a book club a few months ago and have been waiting for book 2 to come out to know what happens next (cliffhangers are the worst), and this book definitely was worth the wait.
I loved book 1 because it gave me vibes of some of my other favorite fantasy books but also built a whole new world that kept me guessing what was going to happen next. And book 2 continued that going even further with the characters traveling to new places and further developing the world. I love that the author sets up so many of the plot twists and neatly wraps them up towards the end of the book, but somehow I never see them coming.
I'm glad the author chose to write from Lex, Dash, and Aife/Astrid's POV this time, instead of just Aife/Astrid's. Seeing the way each of them thinks and the characters development is amazing. It also helped me understand the mens' perspectives instead of just what Aife/Astrid assumed was happening. And the whole sharing storyline... DAMN! Spicy!
The cliffhanger from this book isn't effecting me as much as from book 1, but I cannot wait to read what else is in story for these characters.
I read These Wicked Lies in a book club a few months ago and have been waiting for book 2 to come out to know what happens next (cliffhangers are the worst), and this book definitely was worth the wait.
I loved book 1 because it gave me vibes of some of my other favorite fantasy books but also built a whole new world that kept me guessing what was going to happen next. And book 2 continued that going even further with the characters traveling to new places and further developing the world. I love that the author sets up so many of the plot twists and neatly wraps them up towards the end of the book, but somehow I never see them coming.
I'm glad the author chose to write from Lex, Dash, and Aife/Astrid's POV this time, instead of just Aife/Astrid's. Seeing the way each of them thinks and the characters development is amazing. It also helped me understand the mens' perspectives instead of just what Aife/Astrid assumed was happening. And the whole sharing storyline... DAMN! Spicy!
The cliffhanger from this book isn't effecting me as much as from book 1, but I cannot wait to read what else is in story for these characters.
January 27, 2023
Holy crap. I don’t even know what to say. TWT was even more amazing that TWL. The banter, the growth, the revelations. It’s just perfection. Miranda Joy has such a lovely way of writing, drawing the reader into the story before you can give it another thought. The relationships she develops between all of the characters are so well done, I can’t even begin to choose a favorite. Dash’s humor, Callan’s sweet, golden boy innocence, Ilona’s new love of romance books, Lex’s deep rooted, patient love for Astrid, they’re all so perfect. After being given a few key answers, we’re left on a cliffhanger with even more questions. Why did *insert name here* choose the healer? What does Joccelyn know? How does the man with the scar tie into everything? Is Zale up to something? Will Astrid ever get her memories back?! I don’t know how I’m going to be able to wait for book three to come out!
February 25, 2023
Okay, NOT FAIR. How did Miranda Joy manage to make me sympathize and fall in love with two different men?! Like I said, not fair. Usually I'm a "Team Edward or Team Jacob" kind of girl, but in this instance...I just really cannot choose.
All that aside, I loved jumping back into the world of These Wicked Lies! Miranda does such an incredible job creating beautiful places and making them all so unique and real. It was amazing to see our beloved Nevaris and Hakran, and to finally visit Stellaris.
Though I felt like the first 50% or so of TWT dragged a bit, it really started to pick up around the middle and I found it hard to put down. The idea of new gods and goddesses being introduced is intriguing to me and I cannot wait to find out what happens next! Especially with that ending! Book 3 can't come soon enough!
All that aside, I loved jumping back into the world of These Wicked Lies! Miranda does such an incredible job creating beautiful places and making them all so unique and real. It was amazing to see our beloved Nevaris and Hakran, and to finally visit Stellaris.
Though I felt like the first 50% or so of TWT dragged a bit, it really started to pick up around the middle and I found it hard to put down. The idea of new gods and goddesses being introduced is intriguing to me and I cannot wait to find out what happens next! Especially with that ending! Book 3 can't come soon enough!
May 11, 2023
Astrid/Aife makes it hard to like these books
I think I'm done. There was another cliffhanger but honestly I don't care to find out how the story ends. Astrid/Aife is infuriating. I like Dash and Lex a lot but they are both too good for her and their fawning and dedication makes me like them a little less. I mean honestly there's no reason such a selfish annoying character should have not one but two decent and powerful men literally compromising their own wants and beliefs to appease her. I found it hard to even focus on the plot because I was so distracted by how annoyed I am with the main character. So I'm opting out of future installments in the series. I may pick up something by this author again in the future. The writing was good and the plot was decent. I just can't root for Astrid and therefor can't care enough to continue reading this series.
I think I'm done. There was another cliffhanger but honestly I don't care to find out how the story ends. Astrid/Aife is infuriating. I like Dash and Lex a lot but they are both too good for her and their fawning and dedication makes me like them a little less. I mean honestly there's no reason such a selfish annoying character should have not one but two decent and powerful men literally compromising their own wants and beliefs to appease her. I found it hard to even focus on the plot because I was so distracted by how annoyed I am with the main character. So I'm opting out of future installments in the series. I may pick up something by this author again in the future. The writing was good and the plot was decent. I just can't root for Astrid and therefor can't care enough to continue reading this series.
April 5, 2023
Wow. This book was so good. If you’re ready for gods and goddesses, family of way more than blood, why choose 🌶️ romance, and edge of your seat thrills, pick this series up.
Continuing where the first book left off, Aife is trying to figure out just who she was and is. She is torn between the love she has for Lex - her past - and Dash - her current life as Astrid. These two hate each other, but will work together only for her. And the moonberries scene…if you know you know.
We’re left with another cliffhanger, and the loss of an important character. However, it sets up for the third book and I could make some guesses about where it’s going…but I won’t. Read the series. You won’t regret it if you like some spice and some action.
Continuing where the first book left off, Aife is trying to figure out just who she was and is. She is torn between the love she has for Lex - her past - and Dash - her current life as Astrid. These two hate each other, but will work together only for her. And the moonberries scene…if you know you know.
We’re left with another cliffhanger, and the loss of an important character. However, it sets up for the third book and I could make some guesses about where it’s going…but I won’t. Read the series. You won’t regret it if you like some spice and some action.
January 28, 2023
What an amazing continuation of Astrid's story!!! I am blown away by all the things this book offered: superior banter, high character development, found family, blossoming romance with some decadently hot scenes, an interesting and expanding fantasy world, and so much more! There was everything I love in a solid romantasy. Had a huge thrill watching one of my fave book boyfriends in his element :) I cannot wait to see where the next book goes after another massively impressive cliffhanger! This book will give you a hangover, in all the best ways. (I received an arc from the author and this book will release in Spring of 2023)
April 11, 2023
After really enjoying the first book and being really excited to start reading this one, I was disappointed.
The ending made me confused and feeling a little robbed.
As far as characters go, Aife is so frustrating, i just wanted to knock some sense into her so many times. Lex as the book went on lost what made his character so great to begin with. Don’t get me wrong he’s still my endgame, but his edge is slipping. At this point Dash feels totally pointless, he’s place in the story feels forced.
This could have been a great series, maybe it still will be. It’s just this part lacked something for me.
The ending made me confused and feeling a little robbed.
As far as characters go, Aife is so frustrating, i just wanted to knock some sense into her so many times. Lex as the book went on lost what made his character so great to begin with. Don’t get me wrong he’s still my endgame, but his edge is slipping. At this point Dash feels totally pointless, he’s place in the story feels forced.
This could have been a great series, maybe it still will be. It’s just this part lacked something for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2023
“Everyone always talks about how falling in love is the most magical feeling in the world, but no one ever mentions how it feels when you stop falling—when you careen into the ground at full speed. The force might not shatter bones, but it ruptures hearts.”
I couldn’t do it. The style of the writing was very much ew. I loved the first book so I am very disappointed. The words used were icky. Especially when it was a man’s point of view, it was as of the author was trying to make it sound modern for the new adults, but I just didn’t like it. Maybe I’ll try again later and reread the first book too.
I couldn’t do it. The style of the writing was very much ew. I loved the first book so I am very disappointed. The words used were icky. Especially when it was a man’s point of view, it was as of the author was trying to make it sound modern for the new adults, but I just didn’t like it. Maybe I’ll try again later and reread the first book too.
August 8, 2023
I managed to finish this book but I did start to skim read some parts because it was taking too long to answer the plot that being said the author touched on some important points with mental health despite the relationships not being super healthy, most of the language is immature and silly just incase anyone’s wondering how gods talk to each other in this realm, they have magical running water, quaint rustic things but also access to lots of modern jarring idioms oh also there is a scene where A is wearing a night dress but next paragraph has a top and pants removed. Overall the story is good enough though if you need something to read between books.
February 19, 2023
Astrid’s story continues and we get to explore more of the world Miranda Joy has created. One of the things I love most about her writing is how true her characters are to themselves. There’s never a doubt in my mind how one of them would react to something and I think that speaks volumes to how well she develops their characters. Like in the last book, the ending surprised me quite a bit. I always enjoy when I’m thrown for a loop and she never disappoints
March 30, 2023
3.5 stars
This was a good follow up to book 1,
The story did not go the way I thought it would go at all.
Book 1 was such a strong and well balanced start to the series, I suppose i had high expectations for book 2, but the slower pace of this book I feel is going to be necessary in the plot of the overall series.
I have mixed feelings about some of the happenings, but I will definitely be reading book 3 to see where the gang end up.
This was a good follow up to book 1,
The story did not go the way I thought it would go at all.
Book 1 was such a strong and well balanced start to the series, I suppose i had high expectations for book 2, but the slower pace of this book I feel is going to be necessary in the plot of the overall series.
I have mixed feelings about some of the happenings, but I will definitely be reading book 3 to see where the gang end up.
Read
February 11, 2023Miranda Joy has continued the wild ride with wonderful character development and excellent twists and turns. This second novel tracks with her other amazing strong books and leaves us with a truly wicked cliffhanger. Excited to see how she develops in the third book! Thank you to the author for giving me an ARC for an honest review, this book comes out in March 2023.
March 26, 2023
wow so good!
TWT did not disappoint! It was an incredible continuation of TWL! I love these characters and the tangled mess they are in! It was past paced and had great spicy scenes! Can’t wait for book 3!
TWT did not disappoint! It was an incredible continuation of TWL! I love these characters and the tangled mess they are in! It was past paced and had great spicy scenes! Can’t wait for book 3!
March 30, 2023
Wowee.
This series is so fun and different. You just gotta go in without expectations and enjoy the ride.
Callan is my favorite!!! I hope we get more of his story.
And the MFM poly romance is so sexy and sweet and YEET!
I can’t wait to see what’s next.
This series is so fun and different. You just gotta go in without expectations and enjoy the ride.
Callan is my favorite!!! I hope we get more of his story.
And the MFM poly romance is so sexy and sweet and YEET!
I can’t wait to see what’s next.
April 24, 2023
I like the plot, but Aife/Astrid truly annoys me
June 7, 2023
Dnf… ugh. Stopped at 80% and honestly I am shocked I made it that far.
July 19, 2023
the end 😢😢😢
June 5, 2024
First book was ok this one is just straight flop
October 24, 2024
It was great until about 60% of the way through.
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