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A Wonderful Lie
Everyone lies around the holidays. We lie about the money we’re spending. We lie that we’re following our diets.
What am I lying about this year? The fact that my workplace nemesis has become my friend-with-benefits.
Collin Machlan and I have been each other’s competition since we joined our college’s radio station freshman year. Six years later, we’re both hosting shows for the country’s most popular podcast network.
Just as everything starts turning red and green, our boss announces a promotion, and whoever gets the most listens during this merry season will be crowned the winner.
There is just one catch; the only way to draw an audience in December is to theme every episode around Christmas. For a woman who typically celebrates alone with takeout and slasher flicks, I’m at a big disadvantage.
Going toe-to-toe with the guy I’ve never been able to intimidate is only made harder by the fact that Collin doesn’t seem to want to play our usual games. Add in some mistletoe and a Secret Santa swap, and I finally give in to his shameless flirting.
Maybe it’s the delusion of cuffing season, but suddenly I’m spending every night with him. No one at work knows. Neither does his family, or my friends. I lie that it’s just physical. That me, a self-proclaimed bachelorette, couldn’t possibly be on the brink of a relationship. I lie that we’re still competing for a job he doesn’t even want.
Until one too many lies threatens to topple my life like a crooked tree with poorly-distributed ornaments. And I’m left to decide between my lonely and blue traditions, or a love that lasts all year round.
What am I lying about this year? The fact that my workplace nemesis has become my friend-with-benefits.
Collin Machlan and I have been each other’s competition since we joined our college’s radio station freshman year. Six years later, we’re both hosting shows for the country’s most popular podcast network.
Just as everything starts turning red and green, our boss announces a promotion, and whoever gets the most listens during this merry season will be crowned the winner.
There is just one catch; the only way to draw an audience in December is to theme every episode around Christmas. For a woman who typically celebrates alone with takeout and slasher flicks, I’m at a big disadvantage.
Going toe-to-toe with the guy I’ve never been able to intimidate is only made harder by the fact that Collin doesn’t seem to want to play our usual games. Add in some mistletoe and a Secret Santa swap, and I finally give in to his shameless flirting.
Maybe it’s the delusion of cuffing season, but suddenly I’m spending every night with him. No one at work knows. Neither does his family, or my friends. I lie that it’s just physical. That me, a self-proclaimed bachelorette, couldn’t possibly be on the brink of a relationship. I lie that we’re still competing for a job he doesn’t even want.
Until one too many lies threatens to topple my life like a crooked tree with poorly-distributed ornaments. And I’m left to decide between my lonely and blue traditions, or a love that lasts all year round.
221 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 30, 2022
90 people are currently reading
819 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Aarons
63 books2,990 followersAuthor of romance novels such as Fleeting and Love at First Fight, Carrie Aarons writes books that are just as swoon-worthy as they are sarcastic. Her stories are fueled by vanilla lattes, meloncholy music, and copious amounts of candles.
When she isn't writing, Carrie is busy binging reality TV, having a love/hate relationship with cardio, and trying not to burn dinner. She lives in farm country with her husband, two children and ninety-pound rescue pup.
When she isn't writing, Carrie is busy binging reality TV, having a love/hate relationship with cardio, and trying not to burn dinner. She lives in farm country with her husband, two children and ninety-pound rescue pup.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
December 4, 2023
4⭐️2.5🌶️
A holiday enemies to lovers turned to enemies with benefits romance and I had such a good time with this!! Was fairly short and filled with lots of giggles, their banter was top tier!!!!
A holiday enemies to lovers turned to enemies with benefits romance and I had such a good time with this!! Was fairly short and filled with lots of giggles, their banter was top tier!!!!
December 5, 2022
I was introduced to Carrie Aarons books last year and since them I love every book that she publishes. This one was no exception.
I love enemies to lovers trope and I loved this one. It wasn't that long, which made me read it quite fast.
Lark and Collin are podcast hosts that have been enemies for a long time. Even with the hate, each one of them attracted to the other, but no one wants to admit it. Until Lark made the first move...
Both of them had some "luggage" that they are caring and this is why they can't trust love. Actually Collin was a bit better in this department, because he got over his problems faster. He was just waiting for Lark to get over hers. The chemistry and the passion between them was literally explosive and hot. I loved the scenes between them and I especially enjoyed the banter.
This was the perfect Christmas getaway book for me and I loved it.
I received an ARC copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.
I love enemies to lovers trope and I loved this one. It wasn't that long, which made me read it quite fast.
Lark and Collin are podcast hosts that have been enemies for a long time. Even with the hate, each one of them attracted to the other, but no one wants to admit it. Until Lark made the first move...
Both of them had some "luggage" that they are caring and this is why they can't trust love. Actually Collin was a bit better in this department, because he got over his problems faster. He was just waiting for Lark to get over hers. The chemistry and the passion between them was literally explosive and hot. I loved the scenes between them and I especially enjoyed the banter.
This was the perfect Christmas getaway book for me and I loved it.
I received an ARC copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.
December 22, 2022
It’s that favorite time of the year when holiday romances are front and center on my reading list. As we bid farewell to 2022, I won’t lie to you -- this one is just too good to be missed!
Collin Machlan and Lark Bradley are podcasters and rivals for an upcoming promotion in their office. The competition began in college and six years later is still fierce and wildly entertaining – especially when you add the element of magnetic attraction that burns between them.
Lark takes on the persona of the story’s Scrooge-like character with a bah humbug attitude towards the holidays – but has her reasons and they are heartbreaking. Collin is just the opposite – filled with the spirit of the holidays and a downright swoon-worthy leading man in his efforts to win Lark's love and trust. Even with hurdles to jump, together they make a great pair.
Clever writing, laugh-out-loud humor, sizzling romance and irresistible charm. It was easy not only to adore, but cheer for both Collin and Lark every misstep of their way to a happily-ever-after.
A delightful and steamy holiday package!
December 4, 2022
4.25 STARS
This sunshine/grumpy holiday romance was so enjoyable.
Lark and Collin are long time nemeses, they banter and compete constantly. They are opposites on the surface.
I loved that they have similar themed podcasts, both focusing on sex and dating in an open, positive way.
The sex positivity was a great aspect of this story for me.
Collin grew up with a big family and lots of love, support and acceptance.
Lark grew up with extended family that didn’t offer anything emotionally. She’s career driven but lacking in any meaningful human connections.
They begin an enemies with benefits relationship at the same time as they are competing for the top spot at work.
Things progress between them into a new type of relationship for them both. They find themselves in uncharted relationship waters with feelings they don’t know how to handle.
There’s some very beautiful, raw emotional moments. There’s plenty of heat and spice…they are an adventurous and sexy pair.
I enjoyed the light moments and humor, it was a well balanced story that had a bit of serious issues with plenty of flirting and humor to lighten things. It’s medium to high on the heat/sexy side.
It’s a really smart, steamy fun holiday romance with enough emotional depth to satisfy me.
I enjoyed the scenes with Collin’s family and the couples co-workers a lot. They were great secondary characters that added some laughs and heartfelt moments.
This sunshine/grumpy holiday romance was so enjoyable.
Lark and Collin are long time nemeses, they banter and compete constantly. They are opposites on the surface.
I loved that they have similar themed podcasts, both focusing on sex and dating in an open, positive way.
The sex positivity was a great aspect of this story for me.
Collin grew up with a big family and lots of love, support and acceptance.
Lark grew up with extended family that didn’t offer anything emotionally. She’s career driven but lacking in any meaningful human connections.
They begin an enemies with benefits relationship at the same time as they are competing for the top spot at work.
Things progress between them into a new type of relationship for them both. They find themselves in uncharted relationship waters with feelings they don’t know how to handle.
There’s some very beautiful, raw emotional moments. There’s plenty of heat and spice…they are an adventurous and sexy pair.
I enjoyed the light moments and humor, it was a well balanced story that had a bit of serious issues with plenty of flirting and humor to lighten things. It’s medium to high on the heat/sexy side.
It’s a really smart, steamy fun holiday romance with enough emotional depth to satisfy me.
I enjoyed the scenes with Collin’s family and the couples co-workers a lot. They were great secondary characters that added some laughs and heartfelt moments.
November 18, 2023
4.5 ⭐
- rivals to lovers
- enemies with benefits
- secret relationship
- holiday
- 3/5 🌶️
I read this book in one sitting. Lark & Collin work at the same podcasting company and essentially have competing podcasts. When the primetime spot opens up, the two end up competing for that by trying to see how many listens they each get by the end of the month. But in order to get more listens and keep up with Collin's numbers, Lark has to lean into holiday content. She famously hates the holidays and has a complicated family history, so her desire to do that is very minimal. But she's worked so hard to get to where she is, she decides to do it anyways.
Now, these two have known each other since college and Lark has always written him off. Collin tried to shoot his shot with her multiple times only to continuously be shut down. But. when he hears some guy talking shit about Lark at the bar, he decides to step in. And when he and Lark start bantering after...one thing leads to another and they end up hooking up.
I genuinely loved Lark's character development. I have a complicated family and married someone who has a big, loving and close family, so I felt a bit of a connection to Lark. For a novella, I was so impressed with how deep these characters were and how much happened in such a short period of time. It didn't feel rushed either.
- rivals to lovers
- enemies with benefits
- secret relationship
- holiday
- 3/5 🌶️
I read this book in one sitting. Lark & Collin work at the same podcasting company and essentially have competing podcasts. When the primetime spot opens up, the two end up competing for that by trying to see how many listens they each get by the end of the month. But in order to get more listens and keep up with Collin's numbers, Lark has to lean into holiday content. She famously hates the holidays and has a complicated family history, so her desire to do that is very minimal. But she's worked so hard to get to where she is, she decides to do it anyways.
Now, these two have known each other since college and Lark has always written him off. Collin tried to shoot his shot with her multiple times only to continuously be shut down. But. when he hears some guy talking shit about Lark at the bar, he decides to step in. And when he and Lark start bantering after...one thing leads to another and they end up hooking up.
I genuinely loved Lark's character development. I have a complicated family and married someone who has a big, loving and close family, so I felt a bit of a connection to Lark. For a novella, I was so impressed with how deep these characters were and how much happened in such a short period of time. It didn't feel rushed either.
December 29, 2022
I loved this book SO MUCH. It was SO GOOD. I’m a little upset with myself that I waited so long to read it! It was the perfect enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, they were like minded but also so different, she hates Christmas and he loves it, they fall in love during Christmas even though that’s the last thing she eve thought she’d do. I love them so much
I loved Lark and Collin together so much. They were so open about everything; since they both air out their personal lives on their podcasts regularly. Their banter was so good; Lark didn’t stop from telling Collin how annoying he was even after they got together. They didn’t really change (until their little lovesick hearts got involved) when they first started sleeping together and even when they got more serious, they were still the same, they were still different people, they still annoyed each other but they also liked each other.
It was such a good enemies to lovers story. Lark has always been so single minded her whole life, so of course she wants to win. And she doesn’t know how to really process her feelings. Don’t get me wrong neither does Collin, but he always speaks his mind. But he knows that Lark is so scared, he’s so delicate with her in a way that isn’t demeaning. He just loved her and wasn’t willing to let her go. Neither of them knew how to be in a real relationship and they learned together and it was perfect.
It was also so deep. Lark’s backstory was heart wrenching, and Collin had no idea how to process that. But he did what any good person would and told her he’d be there for her in whatever way he could.
I could read all the books about these two and be happy forever. When she starting feeeeeeling things, ma’am it’s cause you LOVE HIM.
I loved Lark and Collin together so much. They were so open about everything; since they both air out their personal lives on their podcasts regularly. Their banter was so good; Lark didn’t stop from telling Collin how annoying he was even after they got together. They didn’t really change (until their little lovesick hearts got involved) when they first started sleeping together and even when they got more serious, they were still the same, they were still different people, they still annoyed each other but they also liked each other.
It was such a good enemies to lovers story. Lark has always been so single minded her whole life, so of course she wants to win. And she doesn’t know how to really process her feelings. Don’t get me wrong neither does Collin, but he always speaks his mind. But he knows that Lark is so scared, he’s so delicate with her in a way that isn’t demeaning. He just loved her and wasn’t willing to let her go. Neither of them knew how to be in a real relationship and they learned together and it was perfect.
It was also so deep. Lark’s backstory was heart wrenching, and Collin had no idea how to process that. But he did what any good person would and told her he’d be there for her in whatever way he could.
I could read all the books about these two and be happy forever. When she starting feeeeeeling things, ma’am it’s cause you LOVE HIM.
December 30, 2022
A Wonderful Lie by Carrie Aarons is one of my favourites of 2022. Carrie is, and always will be, one of my unicorn authors, and I love how innovative and different her plots are, and A Wonderful Lie didn’t disappoint.
Lark and Colin are podcasters, who have known each other since college, and now work together for the same podcasting company. They are rivals, both with podcasts in relationship and romantic advice, constantly in competition for the top spot in the charts, and when a prime release day spot opened, they are in even more competition. Lark is known as cold hearted, a bachelorette who never lets anyone close, but is loved by her listeners for her stories and interviews on her podcasts. Colin is a ladies’ man, always opening up about his dating experiences on his show, which makes Lark detest him even more, despite the fact she talks about similar things. As the competition hots up, it becomes clear that these two are the main competitors, but as it’s December, the podcasts will need to have a Christmas twist, and it’s the one time of year that Lark hates most. How will the competition affect their working relationship, and will it finally push them to admit the chemistry they have?
Lark was a heroine that took me a little while to warm up to, but after a few chapters I realised how much I could relate to her fears of relationships, which made me instantly love her. She had a hard shell, but once you were let into her inner circle, she loved hard, even if it took a while for her to admit it to herself. She was fiercely competitive, her job was her life, and she didn’t have time for Christmas getting in the way of her dream release spot. I loved seeing her open up more and become more open to the idea of letting Colin in and having an emotional connection with someone rather than just her normal sexual one.
Colin was a charming sweetheart, who had the perfect family, so different from Lark, which meant he loved Christmas and everything about it. He had known of Lark since college, the ice queen who didn’t let anyone close, so had always made his mission to flirt with her and get a rise out of her. When the situation presents itself for them to move their working relationship to a more intimate one, he jumps at the chance, knowing it will only be casual, but when feelings start, and she’s the one keeping him at arm’s length, he’s left reeling. He’s the one who usually sets the boundaries, and he’s unsure what to do with Lark and her iciness. But his goal to melt her exterior, learn more about her as a person, only makes him fall deeper, and he makes it his new mission to convince her she feels the same.
Lark and Colin are both flawed, both terrified of commitment for different reasons, but that made them more relatable and more likable. The reasons they were scared of relationships were common, the fear of actually letting someone in because it could mean you are hurt badly if they leave, or the worry that your life might change before realising that if it’s for the right person you won’t mind. I think Carrie wrote them perfectly, every part of this book was amazing, from the steamy scenes, to seeing them finally opening up about their pasts, to their tear jerking break up (Carrie’s best yet), everything was enjoyable. It made my heart break at some points, but in a good way. Her scenes are always so inventive, and the ending was realistic too, they were a work in progress, doing things on their own timing, not anyone else’s, flawed, but a team.
Lark and Colin are podcasters, who have known each other since college, and now work together for the same podcasting company. They are rivals, both with podcasts in relationship and romantic advice, constantly in competition for the top spot in the charts, and when a prime release day spot opened, they are in even more competition. Lark is known as cold hearted, a bachelorette who never lets anyone close, but is loved by her listeners for her stories and interviews on her podcasts. Colin is a ladies’ man, always opening up about his dating experiences on his show, which makes Lark detest him even more, despite the fact she talks about similar things. As the competition hots up, it becomes clear that these two are the main competitors, but as it’s December, the podcasts will need to have a Christmas twist, and it’s the one time of year that Lark hates most. How will the competition affect their working relationship, and will it finally push them to admit the chemistry they have?
Lark was a heroine that took me a little while to warm up to, but after a few chapters I realised how much I could relate to her fears of relationships, which made me instantly love her. She had a hard shell, but once you were let into her inner circle, she loved hard, even if it took a while for her to admit it to herself. She was fiercely competitive, her job was her life, and she didn’t have time for Christmas getting in the way of her dream release spot. I loved seeing her open up more and become more open to the idea of letting Colin in and having an emotional connection with someone rather than just her normal sexual one.
Colin was a charming sweetheart, who had the perfect family, so different from Lark, which meant he loved Christmas and everything about it. He had known of Lark since college, the ice queen who didn’t let anyone close, so had always made his mission to flirt with her and get a rise out of her. When the situation presents itself for them to move their working relationship to a more intimate one, he jumps at the chance, knowing it will only be casual, but when feelings start, and she’s the one keeping him at arm’s length, he’s left reeling. He’s the one who usually sets the boundaries, and he’s unsure what to do with Lark and her iciness. But his goal to melt her exterior, learn more about her as a person, only makes him fall deeper, and he makes it his new mission to convince her she feels the same.
Lark and Colin are both flawed, both terrified of commitment for different reasons, but that made them more relatable and more likable. The reasons they were scared of relationships were common, the fear of actually letting someone in because it could mean you are hurt badly if they leave, or the worry that your life might change before realising that if it’s for the right person you won’t mind. I think Carrie wrote them perfectly, every part of this book was amazing, from the steamy scenes, to seeing them finally opening up about their pasts, to their tear jerking break up (Carrie’s best yet), everything was enjoyable. It made my heart break at some points, but in a good way. Her scenes are always so inventive, and the ending was realistic too, they were a work in progress, doing things on their own timing, not anyone else’s, flawed, but a team.
March 17, 2023
Jingling at love!
Collin Machlan and Lark Bradley work together at a radio podcast company. Both have podcasts about sex and seem to have a hate/hate relationship. After an event where someone calls Lark a wh0re, they end up going home together. the chemistry between them is hot enough to burn and they keep.coming back for repeat performances, keeping the relationship secret. Whilst Collin has a great upbringing with living parents, Lark did not and has some issues that stop her from being open. Can they take a little from the other to create something special? Are the troubles from Lark's past too heavy to let go of? This read was both hilarious and sweet and even though it's Christmas time, it's perfect for any time of year!
Collin Machlan and Lark Bradley work together at a radio podcast company. Both have podcasts about sex and seem to have a hate/hate relationship. After an event where someone calls Lark a wh0re, they end up going home together. the chemistry between them is hot enough to burn and they keep.coming back for repeat performances, keeping the relationship secret. Whilst Collin has a great upbringing with living parents, Lark did not and has some issues that stop her from being open. Can they take a little from the other to create something special? Are the troubles from Lark's past too heavy to let go of? This read was both hilarious and sweet and even though it's Christmas time, it's perfect for any time of year!
December 3, 2022
A Wonderful Lie by Carrie Aarons was a fun opposites attract holiday romance. Collin and Lark have been competing against each other for a long time and now are now competing for the top podcast spot. I loved their banter and how they were with each other. They were used to poking at the other, but as they spend time together and started a friends with benefits relationship, lines begin to blur. Lark was not a holiday person. She was reserved and had her reasons. Collin is easy-going and open and all about family. I loved their interactions and how they grew into their relationship. Another great read by this author.
Happy reading!
Happy reading!
November 22, 2023
steamy, easy read with Christmas vibes 🤷🏼♀️
November 28, 2022
4.5 STARS ⭐️
A Wonderful Lie is fun, banter filled holiday romance that is not to be missed.
For the past six years, Lark has always seen Collin as the enemy. He was the likable one in college and always had it easier than her in the podcast world. She has been battling and competing with him from day one.
Collin has always had a secret crush on the unobtainable Lark. She has never given him the time of day. Ever since graduating college two years prior, they have worked for the same company and both have the top two podcasts.
Now that the number one podcast time slot is opening up, they are in competition for most listens to fill that spot. That only fuels Lark’s hope for Collin. But you know what they say? The line between hate and love is closer than you think. One hate filled night, turns into so much more than either of them bargained for.
“I truly want to hate the guy, and he always made it so difficult.”
One of my favorite things about this book was how unapologetically honest both of these characters were on their podcasts. They were both such real characters from the start and I loved that. And once they starting getting emotionally attached, Collin was able to get deeper in there with Lark, which was huge when she didn’t let anyone in. Lark has never been loved by anyone in her life the way that she deserved.
”I’m scared I’ll never be able to do this right. I’m … I’ve always been scared that no one will know how to love me.”
Everything swirls in me like a tornado, ready to fight for her and with her; anger for how she was mistreated, upset for the little girl who wasn’t loved properly, immense shame for ever thinking that Lark was a bitch because she liked to be. “Let me be the one,” I whisper, my ears not fully believing I said the words out loud.
These two are one of my favorite holiday couples! I loved what they brought out in each other and how whenever Lark would push Collin away, he was right there, unmoving and showing her what it means to be loved.
This was my first Carrie Aarons book and definitely will not be my last.
A Wonderful Lie is fun, banter filled holiday romance that is not to be missed.
For the past six years, Lark has always seen Collin as the enemy. He was the likable one in college and always had it easier than her in the podcast world. She has been battling and competing with him from day one.
Collin has always had a secret crush on the unobtainable Lark. She has never given him the time of day. Ever since graduating college two years prior, they have worked for the same company and both have the top two podcasts.
Now that the number one podcast time slot is opening up, they are in competition for most listens to fill that spot. That only fuels Lark’s hope for Collin. But you know what they say? The line between hate and love is closer than you think. One hate filled night, turns into so much more than either of them bargained for.
“I truly want to hate the guy, and he always made it so difficult.”
One of my favorite things about this book was how unapologetically honest both of these characters were on their podcasts. They were both such real characters from the start and I loved that. And once they starting getting emotionally attached, Collin was able to get deeper in there with Lark, which was huge when she didn’t let anyone in. Lark has never been loved by anyone in her life the way that she deserved.
”I’m scared I’ll never be able to do this right. I’m … I’ve always been scared that no one will know how to love me.”
Everything swirls in me like a tornado, ready to fight for her and with her; anger for how she was mistreated, upset for the little girl who wasn’t loved properly, immense shame for ever thinking that Lark was a bitch because she liked to be. “Let me be the one,” I whisper, my ears not fully believing I said the words out loud.
These two are one of my favorite holiday couples! I loved what they brought out in each other and how whenever Lark would push Collin away, he was right there, unmoving and showing her what it means to be loved.
This was my first Carrie Aarons book and definitely will not be my last.
December 6, 2022
"You have your secrets, you bottle them up tight and don't let a lot of people see them. But I want to see them. I want to see you. All of you."
𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬
A Wonderful Lie by Carrie Aarons follows Collin and Lark, two Podcasters that work for the same company with similar podcasts. When a prime time spot opens up in the company, a company-wide competition begins pitting Collin and Lark against each other with the winner getting the best spot in the company.
This book is a wonderful modern Christmas romance that is full of banter, steam, and holiday cheer.
I devoured this book and really loved the journey that we went on.
Lark isn't a fan of Christmas and after learning her story, it's so obvious why she avoids the holiday season and sticks to hook-ups.
Collin is her opposite and grew up with a big family full of family traditions. I mean he makes them omelets, shirtless, singing Christmas carols, c'mon! #swoon
"𝚃𝚛𝚞𝚜𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚙𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚘𝚗 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚢 𝚜𝚊𝚢 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚢'𝚕𝚕 𝚌𝚊𝚝𝚌𝚑 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚏𝚊𝚕𝚕. 𝙽𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚋𝚎 𝚝𝚘𝚘 𝚜𝚌𝚊𝚛𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚊𝚔𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚙, 𝚋𝚎𝚌𝚊𝚞𝚜𝚎 𝚒𝚝 𝚖𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚖𝚊𝚔𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚑𝚊𝚙𝚙𝚒𝚎𝚜𝚝 𝚢𝚘𝚞'𝚕𝚕 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚋𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚕𝚒𝚏𝚎."
This was such a great, quick, and steamy holiday read. Check it out on KU!
𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚:
🎄Enemies-to-Friends with Benefits-to-Lovers
🎄Workplace Romance
🎄Competitive Rivals
🎄Listening to Podcasts
🎄Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬
A Wonderful Lie by Carrie Aarons follows Collin and Lark, two Podcasters that work for the same company with similar podcasts. When a prime time spot opens up in the company, a company-wide competition begins pitting Collin and Lark against each other with the winner getting the best spot in the company.
This book is a wonderful modern Christmas romance that is full of banter, steam, and holiday cheer.
I devoured this book and really loved the journey that we went on.
Lark isn't a fan of Christmas and after learning her story, it's so obvious why she avoids the holiday season and sticks to hook-ups.
Collin is her opposite and grew up with a big family full of family traditions. I mean he makes them omelets, shirtless, singing Christmas carols, c'mon! #swoon
"𝚃𝚛𝚞𝚜𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚙𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚘𝚗 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚢 𝚜𝚊𝚢 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚢'𝚕𝚕 𝚌𝚊𝚝𝚌𝚑 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚏𝚊𝚕𝚕. 𝙽𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚋𝚎 𝚝𝚘𝚘 𝚜𝚌𝚊𝚛𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚊𝚔𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚙, 𝚋𝚎𝚌𝚊𝚞𝚜𝚎 𝚒𝚝 𝚖𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚖𝚊𝚔𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚑𝚊𝚙𝚙𝚒𝚎𝚜𝚝 𝚢𝚘𝚞'𝚕𝚕 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚋𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚕𝚒𝚏𝚎."
This was such a great, quick, and steamy holiday read. Check it out on KU!
𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚:
🎄Enemies-to-Friends with Benefits-to-Lovers
🎄Workplace Romance
🎄Competitive Rivals
🎄Listening to Podcasts
🎄Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
December 19, 2022
I really like the first part of the book. It had the spice and steam and so much chemistry it could burn the book.
The second part, after they got together, was less spicy. I mean, there were spicy scenes, yes, but there was no building to the moments, they just happened. I was still intrigued but the reasons behind why Lark hated Christmas made the book slower.
The main plot, the drama at the end, was obvious to me from the beginning. I really wished it was something else and not Lark’s stubbornness.
All in all, I really liked this book by Carrie Aarons. It felt different, the good kind of different, and it really matched the spirit of Christmas with the hint of spice I love in every great book.
4-4.5 stars.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
ARC was provided via Grey’s Promotions in exchange for an honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Full post: https://slovenianbookworm.wordpress.c...
The second part, after they got together, was less spicy. I mean, there were spicy scenes, yes, but there was no building to the moments, they just happened. I was still intrigued but the reasons behind why Lark hated Christmas made the book slower.
The main plot, the drama at the end, was obvious to me from the beginning. I really wished it was something else and not Lark’s stubbornness.
All in all, I really liked this book by Carrie Aarons. It felt different, the good kind of different, and it really matched the spirit of Christmas with the hint of spice I love in every great book.
4-4.5 stars.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
ARC was provided via Grey’s Promotions in exchange for an honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Full post: https://slovenianbookworm.wordpress.c...
December 22, 2023
2.5
this was scute and surprisingly steamy, but I didn’t enjoy the pacing, everything felt rushed and we didn’t get much time to settle with these characters, but it was fun and festive
I found some of the dialogue and character actions quite cringe, but concede that is just my taste!
this was scute and surprisingly steamy, but I didn’t enjoy the pacing, everything felt rushed and we didn’t get much time to settle with these characters, but it was fun and festive
I found some of the dialogue and character actions quite cringe, but concede that is just my taste!
December 9, 2022
This book was cute. I didn't enjoy the speed of the book. The beginning was quite fast and the ending was slower than I expected. There would be a few parts where I would say "wow this would have been a good ending". It tracked on for a bit longer than I'd liked. But it was super cute and I enjoyed it. Definitely had some steamy moments too
November 29, 2022
To say that Lark is a grinch when it comes to the holidays would be an understatement and she has her reasons why. She despises anything and everything to do with them and refuses to even speak about them on her podcast until an opportunity arises that would send her show over the top with followers. While Lark’s past is the reason she hates the holidays, Collin grew up in a loving home surrounded by love and holidays celebrated with cheer. These two are completely opposite except with the commitment issues and the fact that when it comes to their careers, they are rivals, until the tension turns to more. The more time they spend together the more feelings become involved, but when they both fear the future and change will they be able to seek more from each other? This was such a cute read with loads of emotions and fun banter but I especially oved how they helped each other especially Collin showing Lark that sometimes its ok to trust others and they both grew from their issues. There were moments when Lark could be irritating but that went along with her grinchness lol. Overall, a very cute read where you see a grumpy grinch’s heart grow.
December 3, 2022
Lark has known Collin since college but has always considered him her nemesis especially since they now work for the same company and find themselves pursuing the same promotion. She is determined to win this battle but when she agrees to explore the chemistry between them she wasn’t prepared for the effect it would have on her heart.
Collin has always been attracted to Lark and every time they are together the sparks fly. When the sparks of antagonism turn into heat will he be able to show her that opening her heart to the possibilities will result in the man and the life she didn’t know she wanted.
Collin is charming and he knows that Lark is the woman he want for now and always as he tries to convince her and I enjoyed the evolution of Lark’s character as he helped her overcome her past and showed her the magic of love and the holiday season.
Collin has always been attracted to Lark and every time they are together the sparks fly. When the sparks of antagonism turn into heat will he be able to show her that opening her heart to the possibilities will result in the man and the life she didn’t know she wanted.
Collin is charming and he knows that Lark is the woman he want for now and always as he tries to convince her and I enjoyed the evolution of Lark’s character as he helped her overcome her past and showed her the magic of love and the holiday season.
December 3, 2022
This book literally was a spicy hallmark movie and I was here for it. Soooo good. The banter was the best part of their chemistry. Collin was so freakin swoon worthy it wasn’t even funny. He was a family guy that loved Christmas. Even when Lark tried her best to rub her anti Christmas it didn’t even phase him. He wanted to change her mind about Christmas and they slowly fell in love. Like who doesn’t want to make Christmas cookies and go on a walk in the snow with a cuddly hot hero. MEEEE!! Lark had her reasons for being anti Christmas and slowly Collin broke down all her walls to truly love her the way she deserves. This book put me in the Christmas mood and I’m here for it. Sooo good. Also, love their job as podcasters!! I would totally listen haha.
November 25, 2022
4.5/5*
Original review
Original review
This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Carrie Aarons!
A Wonderful Lie is a standalone Christmas themed Romance about Lark and Collin.
I really enjoy reading Christmas-themed Romance books in November and December, because I really like the holidays. When I saw that Carrie Aarons was going to write another Christmas Romance, I was so excited to read it! Last year Carrie Aarons published If Only in My Dreams, and it was such an enjoyable Christmas Romance read! Now this year she wrote something totally different, and it was amazing! But to be honest, I didn’t expect anything else because Carrie Aarons is a talented Romance author!
A Wonderful Lie tells the story of Lark and Collin. Lark hates anything Christmas, and Collin is the opposite, he loves Christmas. But they do have one thing in common: their passion for podcasts. A Wonderful Lie is a grumpy-sunshine Romance, but this time the grump is a woman, Lark. I really liked that Carrie Aarons did the opposite. This Christmas-themed Romance also has a few other tropes: enemies-to-lovers and workplace romance, two things that I also really enjoy! Lark and Collin were both lovely characters, and I loved reading their story and seeing them fall for each other!
A Wonderful Lie was such a good Romance read, and if you’re looking for a Christmas Romance, then don’t hesitate and read A Wonderful Lie! This book talks about a lot of interesting things, and the romance bits were obviously amazing. Carrie Aarons did such a wonderful job, and I cannot wait to read
December 2, 2022
This is a terrific grumpy/sunshine, enemies-to-lovers, workplace nemesis holiday romance - or “cuffing season” romance as they describe it in the book. We have two characters who have similar outlooks on their love lives (no entanglements) but very different viewpoints on Christmas.
Lark and Collin have been competing since college and a new Christmas competition pits them directly against each other for the most lucrative time slot. Collin is all about the holidays and family time and seems to have a clear advantage in coming up with relevant Christmas content. But no one should discount Lark’s competitive nature.
These podcasters share very intimate looks into their personal lives every week, but Lark is still a mystery to most. When the line between love and hate gets blurred and Collin starts to get her to open up, he’s very surprised at what he finds. Lark definitely has a sad story.
I love that these two were so upfront about their non-relationship and their work competition. This has a very believable conflict and the resolution is even better. You cannot help but root for Lark to get out of the way of her own happiness! There is a reason that opposites attract and this story shows it to you!
Loved it!
Lark and Collin have been competing since college and a new Christmas competition pits them directly against each other for the most lucrative time slot. Collin is all about the holidays and family time and seems to have a clear advantage in coming up with relevant Christmas content. But no one should discount Lark’s competitive nature.
These podcasters share very intimate looks into their personal lives every week, but Lark is still a mystery to most. When the line between love and hate gets blurred and Collin starts to get her to open up, he’s very surprised at what he finds. Lark definitely has a sad story.
I love that these two were so upfront about their non-relationship and their work competition. This has a very believable conflict and the resolution is even better. You cannot help but root for Lark to get out of the way of her own happiness! There is a reason that opposites attract and this story shows it to you!
Loved it!
December 3, 2022
Lark and Collin’s enemies to lovers was the perfect mix of sweet and steamy with a dash of holiday humbug. A great story to snuggle up under a cozy blanket with. Who doesn’t love a little snarky banter and holiday shenanigans?
November 26, 2022
ARC Review of A Wonderful Lie by Carrie Aarons
It has been years since I’ve read a Christmas book (I’ve been getting all my Christmas feels from Hallmark, Lifetime and GAC movies) but when one of my favorite authors releases a new Christmas book- I must read it. Luckily, I received an advanced reader copy and let me just say- on December 2nd, you need to be buying this baby!
When two rival podcasters are in competition for a prime time spot, what can go wrong or right?!
This witty, charming, enemy to lovers Christmas romance was the perfect spicy (and I do mean spicy) combination to kick off my Christmas book reading marathon! Can’t say enough good things about this one! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
It has been years since I’ve read a Christmas book (I’ve been getting all my Christmas feels from Hallmark, Lifetime and GAC movies) but when one of my favorite authors releases a new Christmas book- I must read it. Luckily, I received an advanced reader copy and let me just say- on December 2nd, you need to be buying this baby!
When two rival podcasters are in competition for a prime time spot, what can go wrong or right?!
This witty, charming, enemy to lovers Christmas romance was the perfect spicy (and I do mean spicy) combination to kick off my Christmas book reading marathon! Can’t say enough good things about this one! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 1, 2022
Lark and Colin are just so swoony. This enemy to lovers story had me addicted from the first chapter. Highly recommended
January 30, 2024
Wow…this book was a let down. There was hardly a moment without me cringing. From when his penis weeps to his vampire penis being team edward, I couldn’t believe someone actually wrote these words down and actually kept them in. Just save yourself a book on the tbr and move on to something better.
November 26, 2023
I unexpectedly LOVED this book!!! It's VERY spicy and an overall good read.
Lark has not had an easy life - she has not opened up to really anyone before, only a little bit to her best friend who is also her only family. Lark and Collin have been attracted to each other for years but turned that attraction into competition and aggravation - at least Lark has. Collin has tried to keep to himself, reaching towards Lark a few times but being shut down immediately each time.
When Lark of all people makes a move towards Collin, he isn't going to shut down his chance to be with her - he hears all about her intimate relationships through her podcast and has always admired her. What follows is an explosive night... and then another.. and another. Collin and Lark very quickly develop feelings for one another but Lark pushes him away, she's never let anyone in before.
What I absolutely loved about this is the trope/storyline isn't anything new per-say but the storytelling and the take on the trope was very well done. Collin is so dedicated to Lark and their relationship and really grows - especially as someone whose never been in a real relationship before, he knows how important it is to be there for Lark, listen to her, and remind her how much he cares for her and how much he's willing to do to make this relationship work. Lark struggles to accept the relationship and someone caring for her so deeply and her being able to open up and trust. And while she pushes him away when things get hard, she realizes this is the only relationship in her life she's ever had that she truly wants to keep and that Collin is the force in her life that keeps her grounded and supports her in a way no one else has.
This was a really beautiful love story and I loved how it took place over the month of December with weaving of Christmas parties, gatherings, Christmas themed podcast episodes, and Lark and Collin celebrating Christmas together by making their own traditions that suit them.
Lark has not had an easy life - she has not opened up to really anyone before, only a little bit to her best friend who is also her only family. Lark and Collin have been attracted to each other for years but turned that attraction into competition and aggravation - at least Lark has. Collin has tried to keep to himself, reaching towards Lark a few times but being shut down immediately each time.
When Lark of all people makes a move towards Collin, he isn't going to shut down his chance to be with her - he hears all about her intimate relationships through her podcast and has always admired her. What follows is an explosive night... and then another.. and another. Collin and Lark very quickly develop feelings for one another but Lark pushes him away, she's never let anyone in before.
What I absolutely loved about this is the trope/storyline isn't anything new per-say but the storytelling and the take on the trope was very well done. Collin is so dedicated to Lark and their relationship and really grows - especially as someone whose never been in a real relationship before, he knows how important it is to be there for Lark, listen to her, and remind her how much he cares for her and how much he's willing to do to make this relationship work. Lark struggles to accept the relationship and someone caring for her so deeply and her being able to open up and trust. And while she pushes him away when things get hard, she realizes this is the only relationship in her life she's ever had that she truly wants to keep and that Collin is the force in her life that keeps her grounded and supports her in a way no one else has.
This was a really beautiful love story and I loved how it took place over the month of December with weaving of Christmas parties, gatherings, Christmas themed podcast episodes, and Lark and Collin celebrating Christmas together by making their own traditions that suit them.
December 30, 2022
Just in time for the holiday season Carrie Aarons latest has all the elements of a christmas magic story and a lot more. We have two enemies so to speak going against each other for the top prize they have dreamed of having a long time. I loved how Carrie Aarons shows us the good, the bad and the oh so sexy sides of Lark and Collin.They deny the chemistry but dang right from the start it's like foreplay between them in each chapter brewing to something explosive at last. Seeing them working at their best and seeing Lark enjoy a little of Christmas was truly magical for her. Collin have to say was his best with Lark showing her that magic does exist even if you have to open your heart a little. All in all this was a cute story to read for the holiday filled with love, romance and a Christmas miracle happening for one woman who lost her belief in love. Loved it.
"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."
"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."
December 3, 2022
Holiday Spirit ♥️🎄🖌️💙
This is a fun workplace-work competition book between two strong and sensual people. They know what they want out of life, and they both work hard to get there. I enjoyed the banter between Lark and Collin as they work out their frustrations between the two. Even though they are attracted to each other, they both want the same thing, and it brings up the tension between the two.
I liked how their story was woven between work and real life. Lark is strong and hurting, Collin is solid, but avoids commitment. When these two finally come together, it is explosive and builds into something deeper that is fun to watch.
This was an enjoyable holiday read. To move from hating the holidays to someone in love, with both the holidays and another person is a lovely way to spend a few hours.
This is a fun workplace-work competition book between two strong and sensual people. They know what they want out of life, and they both work hard to get there. I enjoyed the banter between Lark and Collin as they work out their frustrations between the two. Even though they are attracted to each other, they both want the same thing, and it brings up the tension between the two.
I liked how their story was woven between work and real life. Lark is strong and hurting, Collin is solid, but avoids commitment. When these two finally come together, it is explosive and builds into something deeper that is fun to watch.
This was an enjoyable holiday read. To move from hating the holidays to someone in love, with both the holidays and another person is a lovely way to spend a few hours.
December 23, 2022
3.75⭐️
enemies to lovers, workplace, Christmas/holiday, reverse grumpy sunshine, friends with benefits turned more, opposites attract, angry love confession
Adorable Christmas read!!
I was eating it UP at the beginning - I loved the banter between these two
The story did seem to fall off a bit towards the end, but still very cute nonetheless
Also you get spice within the first 20% which was a nice Christmas treat
“Come on, doll, I think we both know I love it when you stare daggers at me.”
“I remember the first time you walked into the station. Jean shorts and this skimpy blue tank top. God, I thought you were fucking gorgeous…”
“You remember what I was wearing?” She blinks slowly.
“You’re pretty memorable wherever you go, doll.”
“I’m … I’ve always been scared that no one will know how to love me.”
“Let me be the one,”
enemies to lovers, workplace, Christmas/holiday, reverse grumpy sunshine, friends with benefits turned more, opposites attract, angry love confession
Adorable Christmas read!!
I was eating it UP at the beginning - I loved the banter between these two
The story did seem to fall off a bit towards the end, but still very cute nonetheless
Also you get spice within the first 20% which was a nice Christmas treat
“Come on, doll, I think we both know I love it when you stare daggers at me.”
“I remember the first time you walked into the station. Jean shorts and this skimpy blue tank top. God, I thought you were fucking gorgeous…”
“You remember what I was wearing?” She blinks slowly.
“You’re pretty memorable wherever you go, doll.”
“I’m … I’ve always been scared that no one will know how to love me.”
“Let me be the one,”
December 4, 2022
A Wonderful Lie by Carrie Aarons
I love this author and her style of writing. This is another amazing book by this author. It is Lark and Collin journey and one you must read. It is a super fun enemies to lovers story that will definitely have you laughing out loud. I know it had me laughing so much while reading it. If you thinks it’s another sweet Christmas romance where the characters are instantly in love and everything is candy canes and Christmas magic you will be surprised and disappointed yet will love it anyway. It is hilarious and witty and you will definitely love all the hot moments and the hostility yet hot chemistry. It’s one to definitely grab. Highly recommend.
I love this author and her style of writing. This is another amazing book by this author. It is Lark and Collin journey and one you must read. It is a super fun enemies to lovers story that will definitely have you laughing out loud. I know it had me laughing so much while reading it. If you thinks it’s another sweet Christmas romance where the characters are instantly in love and everything is candy canes and Christmas magic you will be surprised and disappointed yet will love it anyway. It is hilarious and witty and you will definitely love all the hot moments and the hostility yet hot chemistry. It’s one to definitely grab. Highly recommend.
February 3, 2024
You would have thought, with him being a manwh*re I would have not liked this. Well, I looked past it and he was basically obsessed with Lark at the beginning of the book. I could have done without all the talk of past conquests, but I also loved that he fell first. And he fell hard. I felt his struggles and I also felt hers. She was so grumpy and he was sunshine but neither of them knew what they were doing in a relationship, and that was evident. At least he tried. The one part I can’t get over is there was a P&P reference and the author said Kiera Knightley was Jane that found her Darcy. … it bothered me more than it should have that we all know it’s Lizzie and Darcy. Right?
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