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Forgiving Lies #1
Forgiving Lies
A matter of secrets...
Undercover cop Logan "Kash" Ryan can't afford a distraction like his new neighbor Rachel Masters, even if she's the most beautiful woman he's ever seen. To catch a serial killer, he needs to stay focused, yet all he can think about is the feisty, long-legged coed whose guarded nature intrigues him
A matter of lies...
Deceived and hurt before, Rachel would rather be a single, crazy cat lady than trust another guy, especially a gorgeous, tattooed bad boy with a Harley, like Kash. But when his liquid-steel eyes meet hers, it takes all of Rachel's will-power to stop herself from exploring his hot body with her own.
A matter of love...
As much as they try to keep it platonic, the friction between them sparks an irresistible heat that soon consumes them. Can Kash keep Rachel's heart and her life safe even as he risks his own? Will she be able to forgive his lies ... or will she run when she discovers the dangerous truth?
Undercover cop Logan "Kash" Ryan can't afford a distraction like his new neighbor Rachel Masters, even if she's the most beautiful woman he's ever seen. To catch a serial killer, he needs to stay focused, yet all he can think about is the feisty, long-legged coed whose guarded nature intrigues him
A matter of lies...
Deceived and hurt before, Rachel would rather be a single, crazy cat lady than trust another guy, especially a gorgeous, tattooed bad boy with a Harley, like Kash. But when his liquid-steel eyes meet hers, it takes all of Rachel's will-power to stop herself from exploring his hot body with her own.
A matter of love...
As much as they try to keep it platonic, the friction between them sparks an irresistible heat that soon consumes them. Can Kash keep Rachel's heart and her life safe even as he risks his own? Will she be able to forgive his lies ... or will she run when she discovers the dangerous truth?
370 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 29, 2013
About the author
Molly McAdams
51 books8,806 followersMolly grew up in California but now lives with her husband and daughter in the oh-so-amazing state of Texas. When she's not diving into the world of her characters, some of her hobbies include hiking, snowboarding, traveling, and long walks on the beach . . . which roughly translates to being a homebody and dishing out movie quotes with her hubby. She has a weakness for crude-humored movies and loves curling up in a fluffy blanket during a thunderstorm . . . or under one in a bathtub if there are tornados. That way she can pretend they aren't really happening.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,147 reviews
August 31, 2017
4 Pancakes and green Sour Patch Kids Stars
*Spoilers*
“You’re like Sour Patch Kids candy.”“What the hell?” “Sour . . . then sweet.”
* Warning the heroine is raped in this book and there are some details*
Forgiving Lies is my first Molly McAdams book and It was awesome. I really like her writing style and the book flowed nicely. I was never bored and this story wrung every emotion possible out of me. I was all over the place emotionally. One minute I was laughing, then I was shouting "AH HELL TO THE NO!!", swooning, and then tearing up.
“I’m done playing this game, Kash. I’m done hiding.”
What this book is about
Undercover cop Logan (Kash) Ryan knew when he met his beautiful neighbor Rachel Masters that she was hiding something. He knew that no matter how much he liked her he couldn't tell her who he really is. He also knew he wanted to tear down all the walls around her heart that kept him out. He wanted to know all her secrets. What Kash didn't know is how much he would fall in love with her. When Rachel finds out all the things Kash is hiding from her will he lose her forever?
Kash:
“You need to know that you’re special to me. I meant every single word I sang to you tonight and I will never regret that kiss.”
OMG I love Kash. He is so sweet, protective, playful, and very loving. He is a total sexy (undercover) bad boy with a good heart. He always seems to know what Rachel needs and is very supportive. He earned her trust and got her to open up to him. I love how he plays with her all the time like a big child. He takes things slowly going at her pace and makes her feel safe. Kash is all kinds of yummy.
“Then tell me! Don’t throw your shield at me. I told you, no shields with us, if something is wrong, I want you to tell me. I can’t help you through whatever is going on if you shut me out.”
“Tell me what’s going on with us, what you’re wanting, because I—Rachel, if we do this . . . I’m all in. I want all of you . . . need all of you. I won’t do what Candice and Mason are doing. If that’s what you want, I’m sorry, but I can’t give that to you.”
Rachel:
“You’re such a child, Kash!” Flipping on the light, I blinked against the brightness before focusing on the mirror. A loud gasp filled the small room. “Logan Kash Hendricks! What did you do?”
I also love Rachel. I felt she was very strong. She didn't have no one til Kash(because her best friend isn't there for her), and she has had some really bad things happen to her, but she didn't let it turn her bitter. She has a smart mouth, but she is still generally nice and respectful. She has a very playful, goofy sense of humor. The things that came out of her mouth had me laughin so hard because I, myself, am always threatening to cut or end someone. The only thing I wish Rachel would have done different in this book would be to stand up to her bff Candice and tell her to kiss ass!
“I am going to gut you, you freakin’ asshole! Seven in the damn morning, what the hell is wrong with you?! Put me down—ugh! Easy, this shit hurts. You have really bony shoulders, has anyone ever told you that?” She gasped when I turned the shower water on. “Put me down right now, Logan Hendricks, or I swear to all that is holy you will regret the day you moved in across from me and almost took my Jeep door off!” “No can do, my little Sour Patch.” Thank God I was still only in my workout shorts. Kicking off my running shoes, I stepped into the large tub and winced when she shrieked. “You evil bastard, let me go!” “You sure have a mouth on you when you wake up.” “I will murder you!”
“I told you that first night we were together that you made me feel like I was in love and terrified at the same time. And that’s still true. I’m terrified at the depth of my feelings for you. I’m terrified of how easily you can hurt me. And I’m terrified of living the rest of my life without you. I physically moved on with my life, but a part of me died each day I was away from you.”
I really enjoyed the depth of their relationship. You get to read their journey from friends to lovers. It made them feel more real to me and had me invested. They are a very cute and fun couple with a ton of sexy chemistry. This book would have been a 5 star read for me, but for Rachel's bff Candice! GOD I hated the hell outta her. She didn't believe her best friend she wasn't supportive or even nice. She was the Worst Friend I have ever read about!!!! Oh at the end she is sorry well it wasn't enough to redeem herself in my eyes. I wanted to slap the shit outta her so many times. Mason I loved. I really hope he gets his own book. Blake was creepy as hell. This book was fast pace and full of suspense. Great read but the epilogue/ cliffhanger was OMG.
Below I will leave my favorite moment from this book:
“Why can’t you just admit you’re attracted to me, Rachel?” I asked into her ear as I pressed my body against hers. She swallowed audibly and shook her head as if to clear her mind before speaking. “Because I’m not? I’m not attracted to guys who look like they’re Photoshopped and who have bigger chests than most girls I know.” I couldn’t help it. I laughed loudly and had to pull back slightly when the movement and being pressed up against her made my jeans shrink a size. “Liar.” Even if her voice hadn’t gone all breathy, I still hadn’t forgotten her blush. “And I really hate your tattoos.” “No you don’t.” “And your lip ring and your eyes. And your hair, it drives me nuts. You really need to cut it. Or better yet, one morning you’ll wake up and I will have shaved it off while you slept.”
https://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessi...
*Spoilers*
“You’re like Sour Patch Kids candy.”“What the hell?” “Sour . . . then sweet.”
* Warning the heroine is raped in this book and there are some details*
Forgiving Lies is my first Molly McAdams book and It was awesome. I really like her writing style and the book flowed nicely. I was never bored and this story wrung every emotion possible out of me. I was all over the place emotionally. One minute I was laughing, then I was shouting "AH HELL TO THE NO!!", swooning, and then tearing up.
“I’m done playing this game, Kash. I’m done hiding.”
What this book is about
Undercover cop Logan (Kash) Ryan knew when he met his beautiful neighbor Rachel Masters that she was hiding something. He knew that no matter how much he liked her he couldn't tell her who he really is. He also knew he wanted to tear down all the walls around her heart that kept him out. He wanted to know all her secrets. What Kash didn't know is how much he would fall in love with her. When Rachel finds out all the things Kash is hiding from her will he lose her forever?
Kash:
“You need to know that you’re special to me. I meant every single word I sang to you tonight and I will never regret that kiss.”
OMG I love Kash. He is so sweet, protective, playful, and very loving. He is a total sexy (undercover) bad boy with a good heart. He always seems to know what Rachel needs and is very supportive. He earned her trust and got her to open up to him. I love how he plays with her all the time like a big child. He takes things slowly going at her pace and makes her feel safe. Kash is all kinds of yummy.
“Then tell me! Don’t throw your shield at me. I told you, no shields with us, if something is wrong, I want you to tell me. I can’t help you through whatever is going on if you shut me out.”
“Tell me what’s going on with us, what you’re wanting, because I—Rachel, if we do this . . . I’m all in. I want all of you . . . need all of you. I won’t do what Candice and Mason are doing. If that’s what you want, I’m sorry, but I can’t give that to you.”
Rachel:
“You’re such a child, Kash!” Flipping on the light, I blinked against the brightness before focusing on the mirror. A loud gasp filled the small room. “Logan Kash Hendricks! What did you do?”
I also love Rachel. I felt she was very strong. She didn't have no one til Kash(because her best friend isn't there for her), and she has had some really bad things happen to her, but she didn't let it turn her bitter. She has a smart mouth, but she is still generally nice and respectful. She has a very playful, goofy sense of humor. The things that came out of her mouth had me laughin so hard because I, myself, am always threatening to cut or end someone. The only thing I wish Rachel would have done different in this book would be to stand up to her bff Candice and tell her to kiss ass!
“I am going to gut you, you freakin’ asshole! Seven in the damn morning, what the hell is wrong with you?! Put me down—ugh! Easy, this shit hurts. You have really bony shoulders, has anyone ever told you that?” She gasped when I turned the shower water on. “Put me down right now, Logan Hendricks, or I swear to all that is holy you will regret the day you moved in across from me and almost took my Jeep door off!” “No can do, my little Sour Patch.” Thank God I was still only in my workout shorts. Kicking off my running shoes, I stepped into the large tub and winced when she shrieked. “You evil bastard, let me go!” “You sure have a mouth on you when you wake up.” “I will murder you!”
“I told you that first night we were together that you made me feel like I was in love and terrified at the same time. And that’s still true. I’m terrified at the depth of my feelings for you. I’m terrified of how easily you can hurt me. And I’m terrified of living the rest of my life without you. I physically moved on with my life, but a part of me died each day I was away from you.”
I really enjoyed the depth of their relationship. You get to read their journey from friends to lovers. It made them feel more real to me and had me invested. They are a very cute and fun couple with a ton of sexy chemistry. This book would have been a 5 star read for me, but for Rachel's bff Candice! GOD I hated the hell outta her. She didn't believe her best friend she wasn't supportive or even nice. She was the Worst Friend I have ever read about!!!! Oh at the end she is sorry well it wasn't enough to redeem herself in my eyes. I wanted to slap the shit outta her so many times. Mason I loved. I really hope he gets his own book. Blake was creepy as hell. This book was fast pace and full of suspense. Great read but the epilogue/ cliffhanger was OMG.
Below I will leave my favorite moment from this book:
“Why can’t you just admit you’re attracted to me, Rachel?” I asked into her ear as I pressed my body against hers. She swallowed audibly and shook her head as if to clear her mind before speaking. “Because I’m not? I’m not attracted to guys who look like they’re Photoshopped and who have bigger chests than most girls I know.” I couldn’t help it. I laughed loudly and had to pull back slightly when the movement and being pressed up against her made my jeans shrink a size. “Liar.” Even if her voice hadn’t gone all breathy, I still hadn’t forgotten her blush. “And I really hate your tattoos.” “No you don’t.” “And your lip ring and your eyes. And your hair, it drives me nuts. You really need to cut it. Or better yet, one morning you’ll wake up and I will have shaved it off while you slept.”
https://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessi...
November 2, 2013
4 Sour Patch stars!
Anyone who has read anything by Molly McAdams knows she is famous for certain things... so before I start my review, here are a few things you may want to know before jumping into this book!
Does any one die?
Is there a love triangle/cheating?
Did I cry?
Is there a cliffhanger?
Just a little something else to know...
Rachel Masters is a college student who is the sweet girl next door with a bit of an attitude. She lives with her best friend, Candice. Rachel hasn’t had the easiest last few years. Both of her parents passed away, and Candice and her family is really all she has left. When Candice’s cousin Blake, her childhood crush, moves to Texas- he wants to date her. Rachel doesn’t want to go there, she can tell Blake has changed. He’s still a super hot guy, but he seems to know it. Eventually, Rachel goes on a few dates with him, he becomes possessive. Intense. Psychotic. Rachel just wants to stay away from him.
Logan ‘Kash’ Ryan is an undercover cop who I fell in love with from the go! He is a sexy guy with tattoo’s and a lip ring. He is kind, sweet, hot and good at what he does. He and his best friend/partner get into a little trouble at work (mostly Mason’s doing...), so they go to Texas to work an undercover job. Kash is very serious about his job. He doesn’t do relationships when he is undercover. Then he meets Rachel. His feisty, shielded neighbor. She can be so sweet, but also a little sour... ;)
The more time Rachel and Kash spend together, the better friends they become. Kash is getting to know Rachel, and he likes what he knows.
Kash knows something is going on with Rachel, but she has that damn shield up. Rachel finds herself actually wanting to open up to Kash- she wants him to know things about her, what happened to her. It’s hard for her to break down that shield, but she tries.
I loved watching Kash and Rachel’s relationship grow. From friendship, to more. They fall for each other. For the first time, Rachel is in love.
Kash doesn’t know how this happened. How these feelings developed so quickly. He’s not supposed to fall for her, but it’s too late. With his undercover work, he can’t tell Rachel the truth about him. Not yet.
From here... lots of things happen. Whats going on with Blake? What will happen when Rachel finds out Kash’s secret? Will Rachel be able to forgive his good intentioned lies after she opened her heart and soul to him? Well... I guess you will just have to read this one to find out!
This book is a lot of the things I love all tied up in one- friends to lovers, steam, romance, drama, suspense... overall, a really good read. It was intriguing and fast paced. I enjoy Molly McAdam’s writing style. I love all the little things she puts in her books to make them special- the pancakes, sour patch kids, I’ll Be (which happens to be my wedding song :D). The little details make me smile.
As much as I loved Kash and Rachel, I have to say it was Mason (Kash’s partner) who stole the book for me. I loved him! I really hope he gets his own spin off book, or a giant role in book 2, because I for one would love more Mason! Just a heads up to all my fellow readers, there was a bit of a cliffhanger at the end of this one. Luckily, we only have to wait until early 2014 to find out what happens next!
Anyone who has read anything by Molly McAdams knows she is famous for certain things... so before I start my review, here are a few things you may want to know before jumping into this book!
Does any one die?
Is there a love triangle/cheating?
Did I cry?
Is there a cliffhanger?
Just a little something else to know...
Rachel Masters is a college student who is the sweet girl next door with a bit of an attitude. She lives with her best friend, Candice. Rachel hasn’t had the easiest last few years. Both of her parents passed away, and Candice and her family is really all she has left. When Candice’s cousin Blake, her childhood crush, moves to Texas- he wants to date her. Rachel doesn’t want to go there, she can tell Blake has changed. He’s still a super hot guy, but he seems to know it. Eventually, Rachel goes on a few dates with him, he becomes possessive. Intense. Psychotic. Rachel just wants to stay away from him.
Logan ‘Kash’ Ryan is an undercover cop who I fell in love with from the go! He is a sexy guy with tattoo’s and a lip ring. He is kind, sweet, hot and good at what he does. He and his best friend/partner get into a little trouble at work (mostly Mason’s doing...), so they go to Texas to work an undercover job. Kash is very serious about his job. He doesn’t do relationships when he is undercover. Then he meets Rachel. His feisty, shielded neighbor. She can be so sweet, but also a little sour... ;)
“You’re like Sour Patch Kids candy.”
“What the hell?”
“Sour... then sweet.”
The more time Rachel and Kash spend together, the better friends they become. Kash is getting to know Rachel, and he likes what he knows.
Kash knows something is going on with Rachel, but she has that damn shield up. Rachel finds herself actually wanting to open up to Kash- she wants him to know things about her, what happened to her. It’s hard for her to break down that shield, but she tries.
“Don’t throw your shield at me. I told you, no shields with us; if something is wrong, I want you to tell me. I can’t help you through whatever is going on if you shut me out.”
I loved watching Kash and Rachel’s relationship grow. From friendship, to more. They fall for each other. For the first time, Rachel is in love.
“Rachel, if we do this... I’m all in. I want all of you... need all of you.”
Kash doesn’t know how this happened. How these feelings developed so quickly. He’s not supposed to fall for her, but it’s too late. With his undercover work, he can’t tell Rachel the truth about him. Not yet.
Lying for now meant keeping her safe. And that’s what mattered most.
From here... lots of things happen. Whats going on with Blake? What will happen when Rachel finds out Kash’s secret? Will Rachel be able to forgive his good intentioned lies after she opened her heart and soul to him? Well... I guess you will just have to read this one to find out!
This book is a lot of the things I love all tied up in one- friends to lovers, steam, romance, drama, suspense... overall, a really good read. It was intriguing and fast paced. I enjoy Molly McAdam’s writing style. I love all the little things she puts in her books to make them special- the pancakes, sour patch kids, I’ll Be (which happens to be my wedding song :D). The little details make me smile.
As much as I loved Kash and Rachel, I have to say it was Mason (Kash’s partner) who stole the book for me. I loved him! I really hope he gets his own spin off book, or a giant role in book 2, because I for one would love more Mason! Just a heads up to all my fellow readers, there was a bit of a cliffhanger at the end of this one. Luckily, we only have to wait until early 2014 to find out what happens next!
March 3, 2013
This is so different from Molly's previous books and in my opinion, the BEST so far. Forgiving Lies is a sexy, hold onto the edge of your seat thriller and hot romance. Now I have a thing for guys with lip rings. KASH.
Want to read
June 21, 2013I read an excerpt of FORGIVING LIES, and I'm honestly torn: on one hand, Rachel has to be one of the strongest protagonists McAdams has ever written. My jaw almost dropped while reading it:
Finally! A female character who realizes being ordered around and being told who can and can't look at her is wrong.
On the other hand, I fear that I'll come to dislike Rachel just as much as Harper or Cassidy. She has the exact same slut-shaming attitude toward women.
Now I was getting mad. He didn't own me, he definitely wasn't my boyfriend, and this was Aaron. The same gay guy Blake didn't like 'loking at me'. "And since when do you get to decide who I hang out with? Look, maybe I've been giving you the wrong impression over the last few days, but we aren't together. You have no say in what I do."
Finally! A female character who realizes being ordered around and being told who can and can't look at her is wrong.
On the other hand, I fear that I'll come to dislike Rachel just as much as Harper or Cassidy. She has the exact same slut-shaming attitude toward women.
November 10, 2013
Forgiving Lies was such a wonderful, sensual surprise. I was very nervous about picking it up, because previous Molly McAdams’ books were, in my opinion, a complete disaster. Her love for love triangles, and more drama than necessary was a little bit over the edge for me, but the incredibly good synopis of her new novel piqued my interest and I just needed to get my hands on Forgiving Lies. I was sold the moment I read the words: ‘undercover cop’ tattoos, lip ring’ . Can you blame me? Sexy cop is like a dream come true. But sexy cop with tattoos and a piercing? It’s like the world’s sexiest fantasy that rolls in my sheets. Swoon.
So when I found out there is no love triangle in this book, I jumped and squeed as a crazy woman on a mission only could and started to read. And I completely, utterly fell in love with this edition of Molly McAdams! She’s done a nice U-Turn with Forgiving Lies and gave me exactly what I needed. I was almost sure I would give Rachel and Kash’s story a golden and glittery five stars, till I reached the last few pages.
I loved this story so freaking much and everything, I mean everything was just perfect! The novel was fast paced, suspenful, steamy and so unique. I adored it. I was constantly kept on my toes, never knowing what will happen next, and what the heck is going on. I had so many ideas how the things could go, but they never did go this way.
Kash was wonderful. Sexy, yummy alpha male that oozed confidence and safety. I wanted to lick him, devour him… What a perfect book boyfriend!
Rachel and Kash relationship was out of this world beautiful and intense. Just ideal mix of romance, commitment, love and eroticism. I want to share the same they had with someone in the future. I was captivated and mesmerized by those two.
Overall, I loved it! I just wished it was standalone and the sequel could be about Mason, Kash’s best friend, who was phenomenal secondary character. But despite this Forgiving Lies was really exciting read.
January 29, 2015
1 star – NA/Contemporary/Romantic Suspense
The only thing I liked about this book was the Austin, Texas setting. Everything else about it was annoying, ridiculous, implausible, and melodramatic.
*Weak, stupid, annoying, TSTL, and doormat heroine.
*Quite possibly the absolute worst, bitchiest best friend and secondary character–EVER! I loathed her to utter distraction. I couldn’t stomach that the heroine remained best friends and continued living with her after everything that happened. I spent the entire book infuriated and dumbfounded over their supposed friendship.
*Over-the-top psycho stalker villain.
*Hero is a 20-something undercover cop with grey eyes, a lip ring, and tattoos, drives a motorcycle, plays guitar, and is all mysterious, sexy bad boy on the outside and besotted, sweet gentleman on the inside. Eye roll! It just didn’t work and felt like the author was trying desperately to check every NA romance box.
*Unbelievable and poorly plotted stalker and serial killer suspense storyline with graphic and gratuitous assault/violence.
*Exasperating cliffhanger
The only thing I liked about this book was the Austin, Texas setting. Everything else about it was annoying, ridiculous, implausible, and melodramatic.
*Weak, stupid, annoying, TSTL, and doormat heroine.
*Quite possibly the absolute worst, bitchiest best friend and secondary character–EVER! I loathed her to utter distraction. I couldn’t stomach that the heroine remained best friends and continued living with her after everything that happened. I spent the entire book infuriated and dumbfounded over their supposed friendship.
*Over-the-top psycho stalker villain.
*Hero is a 20-something undercover cop with grey eyes, a lip ring, and tattoos, drives a motorcycle, plays guitar, and is all mysterious, sexy bad boy on the outside and besotted, sweet gentleman on the inside. Eye roll! It just didn’t work and felt like the author was trying desperately to check every NA romance box.
*Unbelievable and poorly plotted stalker and serial killer suspense storyline with graphic and gratuitous assault/violence.
*Exasperating cliffhanger
February 22, 2021
DNF
I read many many unbelievable romance books. Unbelievable in terms of hidieous characters, lousy plot, cringe worthy chemistry. And when I started Forgiving Lies, I just have to stop.
The story of sexual assault victim acting like nothing is wrong is just... well... wrong. It does not sit well with me. Rachel attitude toward Candice is also nausiating. How come after Candice point blank told Racher she does not believe Rachel, Rachel is still living with her??
I just can not put my head around this. That is just the moment I stop.
2 stars
I read many many unbelievable romance books. Unbelievable in terms of hidieous characters, lousy plot, cringe worthy chemistry. And when I started Forgiving Lies, I just have to stop.
The story of sexual assault victim acting like nothing is wrong is just... well... wrong. It does not sit well with me. Rachel attitude toward Candice is also nausiating. How come after Candice point blank told Racher she does not believe Rachel, Rachel is still living with her??
I just can not put my head around this. That is just the moment I stop.
2 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2013
PJV Quickie: I’ve read and enjoyed other books by Molly McAdams and I really wanted to like Forgiving Lies. Unfortunately, I found the story to be formulaic and the characters unlikable. At about the halfway point I started getting into the story, but then the epilogue ruined it for me (again).
Review:
Rachel Masters is finishing up her third year of college. Rachel’s parents died at the beginning of her senior year of high school and her BFF Candice’s family took her in for her senior year. Rachel followed Candice from their home in California to the University of Texas in Austin. Candice’s cousin, Blake, whom Rachel had a crush on as a child, has also started working at UT as a personal trainer in the athletics department. Candice has been incessantly bugging Rachel to go out with Blake, and when Rachel finally agrees (to get Candice to stop whining about it), the date goes okay, but after they go out twice Blake gets weird and Rachel doesn’t want to see him any more, which is difficult because he’s Candice’s cousin and works in the department Rachel’s studies are in.
Logan “Kash” Ryan is an undercover cop in Tampa Bay, Florida, and after a violent gang puts out a hit on Kash and his partner, Mason, they are sent undercover to find a serial killer in Austin. They move in to the apartment across the walkway from Rachel and Candice, and a friendship develops. Kash knows Rachel is hiding secrets, but he can’t tell Rachel he’s got secrets of his own. When things get serious, will Rachel be able to forgive Kash his ‘necessary lies’, or will he lose the best thing that’s ever happened to him?
~~~~~~~~~~
*Warning – this book has a detailed rape scene in it, which can be an issue for some readers*
As I said in my PJV quickie, I wanted to like Forgiving Lies. I’ve read and enjoyed other books by this author and the blurb looked good. That being said, I had so many eyerolls reading Forgiving Lies that I may need to go see an optometrist. It’s like she took a checklist of things needed in a NA and ticked them off to be sure everything was included:
~rape;
~dead parents;
~self-centered bff;
~tattooed hero (piercing optional);
~hero also rides a motorcycle and/or plays guitar (in this case, both);
~hero feels the need to keep the heroine “safe”;
~cliffhanger ending
I think by this point it’s obvious I had issues with Forgiving Lies. At first the writing read as awkward, but I just put it off to getting used to the tone of a new book. Then, in the first few chapters, Blake is acting weird and Rachel is all “oh, maybe I forgot my car died after I was already at the coffee shop and I also forgot I called my BFF and told her to send Blake to come get me.” Blake comes off as a mustache-twirling villian and the whole setup in the first few chapters felt forced and obvious.
Kash came off as a pretty good hero (even with the swoon-overkill: tattooed, pierced, motorcycle-riding undercover cop who also plays guitar and sings) and I genuinely liked his character. He had a few issues of his own, and without getting into spoilers I can’t go into specifics, but sufficeth to say the whole book I kept thinking “He does remember that in real life he lives in Tampa Bay, yes?”
Now, on to Rachel’s BFF Candice: Seriously one of the worst BFFs ever:
~She ignores Rachel’s repeated “no” and bullies her into accepting a date with Blake;
~She continuously locks Rachel out of the apartment without warning when she’s having sex (instead of say, locking her own bedroom door so Rachel can use the rest of the apartment); and
~She doesn’t believe Rachel when she tells her she’s been raped and gets annoyed when Rachel wants to avoid her rapist.
All in all, I felt like for much of the story the characters were written to fit the plot: many of Rachel’s reactions to Kash didn’t ring true in light of the events at the beginning of the book, and I felt like the story still would have worked and would have been more believable if said events hadn’t happened.
Now, the epilogue. Even though I got off to a rocky start, Kash kind of carried the story for me and I was enjoying it to the end…it was a good ending and this particular reader was satisfied. Then, the author pulls an out-of-the-blue cliffhanger out of her pocket that I guess is supposed to grab readers and leave them wanting the next book, but for me it just read like a blatant “buy my next book” ploy. Instead of being left satisfied, I was left annoyed by the whole thing.
Recommendations:
Based on goodreads reviews, I think am in the minority in not liking Forgiving Lies, so I think it will appeal to readers who like New Adult. Fans of tattooed cop heroes and angsty heroines will devour Forgiving Lies.
Review:
Rachel Masters is finishing up her third year of college. Rachel’s parents died at the beginning of her senior year of high school and her BFF Candice’s family took her in for her senior year. Rachel followed Candice from their home in California to the University of Texas in Austin. Candice’s cousin, Blake, whom Rachel had a crush on as a child, has also started working at UT as a personal trainer in the athletics department. Candice has been incessantly bugging Rachel to go out with Blake, and when Rachel finally agrees (to get Candice to stop whining about it), the date goes okay, but after they go out twice Blake gets weird and Rachel doesn’t want to see him any more, which is difficult because he’s Candice’s cousin and works in the department Rachel’s studies are in.
Logan “Kash” Ryan is an undercover cop in Tampa Bay, Florida, and after a violent gang puts out a hit on Kash and his partner, Mason, they are sent undercover to find a serial killer in Austin. They move in to the apartment across the walkway from Rachel and Candice, and a friendship develops. Kash knows Rachel is hiding secrets, but he can’t tell Rachel he’s got secrets of his own. When things get serious, will Rachel be able to forgive Kash his ‘necessary lies’, or will he lose the best thing that’s ever happened to him?
~~~~~~~~~~
*Warning – this book has a detailed rape scene in it, which can be an issue for some readers*
As I said in my PJV quickie, I wanted to like Forgiving Lies. I’ve read and enjoyed other books by this author and the blurb looked good. That being said, I had so many eyerolls reading Forgiving Lies that I may need to go see an optometrist. It’s like she took a checklist of things needed in a NA and ticked them off to be sure everything was included:
~rape;
~dead parents;
~self-centered bff;
~tattooed hero (piercing optional);
~hero also rides a motorcycle and/or plays guitar (in this case, both);
~hero feels the need to keep the heroine “safe”;
~cliffhanger ending
I think by this point it’s obvious I had issues with Forgiving Lies. At first the writing read as awkward, but I just put it off to getting used to the tone of a new book. Then, in the first few chapters, Blake is acting weird and Rachel is all “oh, maybe I forgot my car died after I was already at the coffee shop and I also forgot I called my BFF and told her to send Blake to come get me.” Blake comes off as a mustache-twirling villian and the whole setup in the first few chapters felt forced and obvious.
Kash came off as a pretty good hero (even with the swoon-overkill: tattooed, pierced, motorcycle-riding undercover cop who also plays guitar and sings) and I genuinely liked his character. He had a few issues of his own, and without getting into spoilers I can’t go into specifics, but sufficeth to say the whole book I kept thinking “He does remember that in real life he lives in Tampa Bay, yes?”
Now, on to Rachel’s BFF Candice: Seriously one of the worst BFFs ever:
~She ignores Rachel’s repeated “no” and bullies her into accepting a date with Blake;
~She continuously locks Rachel out of the apartment without warning when she’s having sex (instead of say, locking her own bedroom door so Rachel can use the rest of the apartment); and
~She doesn’t believe Rachel when she tells her she’s been raped and gets annoyed when Rachel wants to avoid her rapist.
All in all, I felt like for much of the story the characters were written to fit the plot: many of Rachel’s reactions to Kash didn’t ring true in light of the events at the beginning of the book, and I felt like the story still would have worked and would have been more believable if said events hadn’t happened.
Now, the epilogue. Even though I got off to a rocky start, Kash kind of carried the story for me and I was enjoying it to the end…it was a good ending and this particular reader was satisfied. Then, the author pulls an out-of-the-blue cliffhanger out of her pocket that I guess is supposed to grab readers and leave them wanting the next book, but for me it just read like a blatant “buy my next book” ploy. Instead of being left satisfied, I was left annoyed by the whole thing.
Recommendations:
Based on goodreads reviews, I think am in the minority in not liking Forgiving Lies, so I think it will appeal to readers who like New Adult. Fans of tattooed cop heroes and angsty heroines will devour Forgiving Lies.
October 13, 2013
This review and others can be found on http://www.bookishtreasures.blogspot.com
Molly McAdams has done it again! All her previous books have had the perfect mix of romance, emotion and angst and Forgiving Lies is no exception. I loved the light thriller element that this book had; it added an extra something to Molly’s usual style of writing.
Yet again Molly has given us a very swoon worthy male lead who I am sure will steal the hearts of many readers. Kash is strong, protective and incredibly caring, everyone will now want undercover cops with a lip ring for a boyfriend ; )
Rachel is a great complement to him. Despite the tough things she goes through at the beginning she has a great inner strength. She isn’t the type of girl who NEEDS a guy to be complete which makes it all the sweeter when she gets with Kash. It doesn’t seem like she is simply jumping at the first guy to show interest like the main characters in several books do.
Whilst not as gut-wrenching and heart-breaking as Taking Chances, Forgiving lies is still packed full of emotion and has several nail biting moments. This story has a few twists that you won’t expect; Molly is great with surprising readers and creating books that are unique. Though at the start the plot appears to be similar to a few other NA novels, it takes a very different direction later on creating a storyline that is new and fresh.
The ending is so intense! Everything is wrapped up quite nicely and then suddenly there is a huge cliff hanger that sets everything up for the next book. And I really do mean HUGE! Normally in this sort of situation I would recommend waiting until book 2 is released but Forgiving Lies is much too good to wait to read. If you hate cliff-hangers with a burning passion then I would suggest stopping reading just before the book ends, you will know when to put the book down.
This is another great addition to the list of amazing books by Molly McAdams. I am greatly looking forwards to seeing what happens next to Kash and Rachel in Deceiving Lies; it seems like book 2 is going to be even more action packed and suspenseful which is something I love. I highly recommend this book to fans of NA, romance, romantic suspense or books with a light crime / thriller element. In fact the only people I wouldn’t recommend this book to are those who hate great writing, realistic emotion, sweet yet passionate romance and exciting, new storylines. This is a definite must read.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, this has not affected my opinions or rating in any way.*
Molly McAdams has done it again! All her previous books have had the perfect mix of romance, emotion and angst and Forgiving Lies is no exception. I loved the light thriller element that this book had; it added an extra something to Molly’s usual style of writing.
Yet again Molly has given us a very swoon worthy male lead who I am sure will steal the hearts of many readers. Kash is strong, protective and incredibly caring, everyone will now want undercover cops with a lip ring for a boyfriend ; )
Rachel is a great complement to him. Despite the tough things she goes through at the beginning she has a great inner strength. She isn’t the type of girl who NEEDS a guy to be complete which makes it all the sweeter when she gets with Kash. It doesn’t seem like she is simply jumping at the first guy to show interest like the main characters in several books do.
Whilst not as gut-wrenching and heart-breaking as Taking Chances, Forgiving lies is still packed full of emotion and has several nail biting moments. This story has a few twists that you won’t expect; Molly is great with surprising readers and creating books that are unique. Though at the start the plot appears to be similar to a few other NA novels, it takes a very different direction later on creating a storyline that is new and fresh.
The ending is so intense! Everything is wrapped up quite nicely and then suddenly there is a huge cliff hanger that sets everything up for the next book. And I really do mean HUGE! Normally in this sort of situation I would recommend waiting until book 2 is released but Forgiving Lies is much too good to wait to read. If you hate cliff-hangers with a burning passion then I would suggest stopping reading just before the book ends, you will know when to put the book down.
This is another great addition to the list of amazing books by Molly McAdams. I am greatly looking forwards to seeing what happens next to Kash and Rachel in Deceiving Lies; it seems like book 2 is going to be even more action packed and suspenseful which is something I love. I highly recommend this book to fans of NA, romance, romantic suspense or books with a light crime / thriller element. In fact the only people I wouldn’t recommend this book to are those who hate great writing, realistic emotion, sweet yet passionate romance and exciting, new storylines. This is a definite must read.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, this has not affected my opinions or rating in any way.*
March 25, 2016
4.5 Sterne <3
March 28, 2017
This book shattered my expectations. I thought it would be a) light and would not
b) end with a BIG cliffhanger!
What now? I am not allowed to do anything fun right now and read the next book because I HAVE A LOT OF REVISIONS TO DO. And I can't wait to see what happens next.
Please kill me now.
This book has everything I want in my suspense-na-contemporary. And more. It was sassy, fun, thrilling, swoony and sexy! And it was blurbed by Jennifer Almentrout! What more could you ask for?!
“I’ve missed pancakes. But I’ll miss being married to you more.”
You have to read the book to get the pancake reference.
This was my first Molly McAdams book and definitely won't be the last.
b) end with a BIG cliffhanger!
What now? I am not allowed to do anything fun right now and read the next book because I HAVE A LOT OF REVISIONS TO DO. And I can't wait to see what happens next.
Please kill me now.
This book has everything I want in my suspense-na-contemporary. And more. It was sassy, fun, thrilling, swoony and sexy! And it was blurbed by Jennifer Almentrout! What more could you ask for?!
“I’ve missed pancakes. But I’ll miss being married to you more.”
You have to read the book to get the pancake reference.
This was my first Molly McAdams book and definitely won't be the last.
July 8, 2023
4.5 stars
WOW. That's all i can say at the moment!
I mean seriously! This was awesome!
Rachel & Kash. *swooon*
Candice - BFF - *gagg*
Mason - GBFF - *LOVE*
Blake - Creepy-Cousin - *HATE*
I loved the story and how it progressed into something beautiful BUT i am none-to-happy about that fucking ending! Seriously?!? I despise cliffhangers with a passion. I was hoping -and praying- that it ended on a happy note. NO SUCH LUCK!
Now i gotta wait til Book #2 comes out to see if Rachel & Kash get their HEA!
*This is a little dramatic.. but im serious!*
I hope i don't have to wait long.. I NEED TO KNOW NOW!!!!
Also, is Mason getting his story told? I hope so.
BUT PLEASE! PLEASE. Don't let it be with Candice!? I beg you!
All in All i absolutely loved this book
WOW. That's all i can say at the moment!
I mean seriously! This was awesome!
Rachel & Kash. *swooon*
Candice - BFF - *gagg*
Mason - GBFF - *LOVE*
Blake - Creepy-Cousin - *HATE*
I loved the story and how it progressed into something beautiful BUT i am none-to-happy about that fucking ending! Seriously?!? I despise cliffhangers with a passion. I was hoping -and praying- that it ended on a happy note. NO SUCH LUCK!
Now i gotta wait til Book #2 comes out to see if Rachel & Kash get their HEA!
*This is a little dramatic.. but im serious!*
I hope i don't have to wait long.. I NEED TO KNOW NOW!!!!
Also, is Mason getting his story told? I hope so.
BUT PLEASE! PLEASE. Don't let it be with Candice!? I beg you!
All in All i absolutely loved this book
January 17, 2016
Ich hab eine typische Geschichte für dieses Genre erwartet und wurde mehrmals überrascht. Unglaublich gut!! Ich konnte das Buch nicht aus der Hand legen und je näher ich zum Ende kam umso mehr wollte ich wissen was passiert. Hat sich gelohnt die Nacht über wach zu bleiben und dieses Buch zu lesen. Am Besten ist es wenn man gar nicht viel über die Handlung weiß und sich überraschen lässt. Ich brauch den 2ten Teil!!
June 30, 2016
ey leute das buch ist sooo gut :(
Es ist ein New adult Roman mit Krimi elementen.
Und die Protagonistin hier ist richtig untypisch, da sie überhaupt nicht nervig ist, obwohl sie so schlimmes in iher Vergangenheit erfahren musste.
Und ich liebe Kash :(
Kash ist der beste.
und ich brauche den zweiten teil jetzt sofort.
Absolute Lese -mpfehlung .
und wenn die am ende nicht heiraten und keine kinder bekommen bin ich für immer depressiv :(
Es ist ein New adult Roman mit Krimi elementen.
Und die Protagonistin hier ist richtig untypisch, da sie überhaupt nicht nervig ist, obwohl sie so schlimmes in iher Vergangenheit erfahren musste.
Und ich liebe Kash :(
Kash ist der beste.
und ich brauche den zweiten teil jetzt sofort.
Absolute Lese -mpfehlung .
und wenn die am ende nicht heiraten und keine kinder bekommen bin ich für immer depressiv :(
July 20, 2014
Another winner from Molly McAdams!
Rachel is in her junior year of college with her bestie Candice. After her parents died Candi’s family took her in and raised her like one of their own. Her story begins with the tale of Blake’s (Candi’s cousin and her childhood crush) infatuation with her. But then this story takes a turn.
Logan ‘Kash’ is working undercover with his partner Mason, when a case goes bad they find themselves in Austin working a new case with new identities. Trying to bring down the Carnation Killer places them just across the courtyard to Rachel & Candice. Kash knows that his lifestyle doesn’t allow for relationships, but there is something about this girl that he just can’t let go of.
As Kash and Rachel walk the fine line of friendship both find it far too difficult to ignore the way, not only their bodies react to one another, but the way their hearts do as well. But Kash is keeping too many secrets from her, things he can’t tell her.
Kash’s trained to see beyond the surface and when he looks at Rachel he knows that there is so much she’s hiding. Not willing to let her hide, he gets her to trust him and reveal the secrets of her past all while keeping a large part of who he is a secret. He knows it’s wrong, but he wants to protect her. She may not know what he does for a living or why he’s really in Texas; but she knows him.
But it’s not all just about love. A serial killer is still out there, a man is still overly infatuated with a girl he can’t have and there are just too many secrets being kept. Some lies can be forgiven, some are unforgivable. Sometimes a broken heart can only be cured by letting what broke it back in.
This book sat on my Kindle for about 2 months before I finally gave in and read it. I wasn’t worried I wouldn’t love it, I was worried that Molly McAdams would destroy me. I barely survived Taking Chances and Stealing Harper. Even after seeing several reassuring posts on her Facebook page that this book was not going to make us want to throw ourselves off of a bridge, I still wasn’t fully trusting her.
But I took the leap. Best. Decision. Ever. I absolutely loved this story. I loved every freaking second of it. I absolutely adored Mason and Kash, loved the hell out of Rachel. I did want to slap Candice a bit but in the end she came through when it counted.
Friends to so much more. Watching Rachel open up to him and just be comfortable and the way both Kash and Mason wanted to just protect her was just oh-so-good. We do get a cliffhanger ending, but the next book is due out in March of 2014 and the blurb gives you enough to put you at a bit of ease (not much, but some).
My favorite quote came at a part in the story when they had a weekend away, it was the middle of their story and a whole new beginning all at once. Note: it is not a spoiler, even though it may look like one.
"I've missed pancakes, But I'll miss being married to you more."
Rachel is in her junior year of college with her bestie Candice. After her parents died Candi’s family took her in and raised her like one of their own. Her story begins with the tale of Blake’s (Candi’s cousin and her childhood crush) infatuation with her. But then this story takes a turn.
Logan ‘Kash’ is working undercover with his partner Mason, when a case goes bad they find themselves in Austin working a new case with new identities. Trying to bring down the Carnation Killer places them just across the courtyard to Rachel & Candice. Kash knows that his lifestyle doesn’t allow for relationships, but there is something about this girl that he just can’t let go of.
As Kash and Rachel walk the fine line of friendship both find it far too difficult to ignore the way, not only their bodies react to one another, but the way their hearts do as well. But Kash is keeping too many secrets from her, things he can’t tell her.
Kash’s trained to see beyond the surface and when he looks at Rachel he knows that there is so much she’s hiding. Not willing to let her hide, he gets her to trust him and reveal the secrets of her past all while keeping a large part of who he is a secret. He knows it’s wrong, but he wants to protect her. She may not know what he does for a living or why he’s really in Texas; but she knows him.
But it’s not all just about love. A serial killer is still out there, a man is still overly infatuated with a girl he can’t have and there are just too many secrets being kept. Some lies can be forgiven, some are unforgivable. Sometimes a broken heart can only be cured by letting what broke it back in.
This book sat on my Kindle for about 2 months before I finally gave in and read it. I wasn’t worried I wouldn’t love it, I was worried that Molly McAdams would destroy me. I barely survived Taking Chances and Stealing Harper. Even after seeing several reassuring posts on her Facebook page that this book was not going to make us want to throw ourselves off of a bridge, I still wasn’t fully trusting her.
But I took the leap. Best. Decision. Ever. I absolutely loved this story. I loved every freaking second of it. I absolutely adored Mason and Kash, loved the hell out of Rachel. I did want to slap Candice a bit but in the end she came through when it counted.
Friends to so much more. Watching Rachel open up to him and just be comfortable and the way both Kash and Mason wanted to just protect her was just oh-so-good. We do get a cliffhanger ending, but the next book is due out in March of 2014 and the blurb gives you enough to put you at a bit of ease (not much, but some).
My favorite quote came at a part in the story when they had a weekend away, it was the middle of their story and a whole new beginning all at once. Note: it is not a spoiler, even though it may look like one.
"I've missed pancakes, But I'll miss being married to you more."
March 8, 2016
Okay, first off. Molly McAdams.... We start to get a happy epilogue then THAT gets thrown. Why. Just. Why?! But loved this book despite that cliffhanger ending. I'm very happy I have the sequel on my shelf and will definitely be starting that very soon. I now understand the green Sour Patch Kids reference. :) Loved Kash, but then again, who wouldn't love him?! I'm nervous yet excited to see what happens in the sequel. This book wasn't at all what I expected it to be. I got teary eyed and almost lost it a couple times. Candice unfortunately even after being redeemed, I still don't like her character. Regardless if Rachel forgave her, I don't. Friends don't act like Candice did and honestly I don't think she will continue to redeem herself in the sequel. I will be beyond shocked if Molly is able to redeem her for me.
October 8, 2021
Buddy Read with soul-book dragon Aksa!!
A matter of secrets...
A matter of lies...
A matter of love...
Cop Logan "Kash" Ryan can't have any distractions because he undercover. His new case is to catch a killer - The Carnation Killer- is important so that no more girls are found dead. Rachel is hurt and deceived before. She is done with men. But when these two neighbors meet across the hall, the chemistry between them is hard to ignore. How much ever they try to keep things simple around them, you can ignore the building passion and flying sparks! But can Kash keep her safe? And can Rach forgive his lies? And what happens when the truth hits too close to home?
What happens is this amazing novel.
Forgiving Lies is the first installment from duet of the same name which ends on a cliffhanger. I didn't know this while starting the book, cause I went in blindly!
There are a lot of beautiful moments in the book. There were times I was close to bawling my eyes out and then there were times I laughed out loud. Kash. Wow. His way to showing his love was giving you shit! And I was quite impressed by him. Lip ring and tats. Hot and Sexy! And also, caring, loving, protective who kept his heart on the sleeves. Again, author made no qualms to make him cry. I loved that part!! I mean, not Kash crying... but to bring out there that men can cry too. It is not a sign of weakness. And then there was Rach. She had a smart mouth and crazy sense of humor. Her dialogues were a treat to read! (Remember, laughing out out that was her!) I really empathized with her. Only other thing I wanted from her was to stand up for herself against her friend, Candice. She was a very lose concept of a "bbf.
And of course, there was Mason. I wished I had someone like him in my life. And then I kicked myself for even thinking, because like Rach had Eli and Mason, I have my brother too. And though he is a pain in the ass, he have protected me quite a few times in the past. And I very grateful to have him, and so is Rach. And can vouch that for Rachel.
I really loved reading this book. The writing was good. The plot and premise were orchestrated perfectly. The characters were awesome. The story progressed wonderfully. The Nerf Darts. The Honeymoon. Mrs. Adams and her cats. Perfect. I for now can't up with complaints for this book.
And I can't wait for book 2 -Deceiving Lies, especially after that epilogue!
“People say that being in love is amazing. They lie. It’s freaking terrifying.”
Trigger Warning :
A matter of secrets...
A matter of lies...
A matter of love...
Cop Logan "Kash" Ryan can't have any distractions because he undercover. His new case is to catch a killer - The Carnation Killer- is important so that no more girls are found dead. Rachel is hurt and deceived before. She is done with men. But when these two neighbors meet across the hall, the chemistry between them is hard to ignore. How much ever they try to keep things simple around them, you can ignore the building passion and flying sparks! But can Kash keep her safe? And can Rach forgive his lies? And what happens when the truth hits too close to home?
What happens is this amazing novel.
Forgiving Lies is the first installment from duet of the same name which ends on a cliffhanger. I didn't know this while starting the book, cause I went in blindly!
There are a lot of beautiful moments in the book. There were times I was close to bawling my eyes out and then there were times I laughed out loud. Kash. Wow. His way to showing his love was giving you shit! And I was quite impressed by him. Lip ring and tats. Hot and Sexy! And also, caring, loving, protective who kept his heart on the sleeves. Again, author made no qualms to make him cry. I loved that part!! I mean, not Kash crying... but to bring out there that men can cry too. It is not a sign of weakness. And then there was Rach. She had a smart mouth and crazy sense of humor. Her dialogues were a treat to read! (Remember, laughing out out that was her!) I really empathized with her. Only other thing I wanted from her was to stand up for herself against her friend, Candice. She was a very lose concept of a "bbf.
And of course, there was Mason. I wished I had someone like him in my life. And then I kicked myself for even thinking, because like Rach had Eli and Mason, I have my brother too. And though he is a pain in the ass, he have protected me quite a few times in the past. And I very grateful to have him, and so is Rach. And can vouch that for Rachel.
I really loved reading this book. The writing was good. The plot and premise were orchestrated perfectly. The characters were awesome. The story progressed wonderfully. The Nerf Darts. The Honeymoon. Mrs. Adams and her cats. Perfect. I for now can't up with complaints for this book.
And I can't wait for book 2 -Deceiving Lies, especially after that epilogue!
“People say that being in love is amazing. They lie. It’s freaking terrifying.”
Trigger Warning :
October 21, 2013
Got an early copy at a book signing yesterday and stayed up until 2:30 in the morning to finish it. A-MA-ZING! I absolutley LOVED Kash and Rachel! They are my new favorite book couple, for sure. Their banter back and forth is the best I've ever read. So funny! Of course this is Molly McAdams we're talking about so IT. IS. INTENSE! This is her first book series (all the others are stand-alones) so it shouldn't have surprised me that there was a cliffhanger. AHH! Come on Deceiving Lies! Taking Chances and From Ashes were sooooo good! Taking Chances is easily in my top 3 favorite books of all time. But Forgiving Lies is just...different. It's a different type of drama. A different type of heartache. Those of us familiar with Molly's writing are use to the gut-wreching storylines and trust me when I say Forgiving Lies does not disappoint. I obviously have a major author/girl crush on Molly McAdams and want nothing more than to tackle hug her every time I see her. She is just that awesome. But I digress...lol
READ. THIS. BOOK! Like...ASAP!
And don't eat the green ones..... ;)
READ. THIS. BOOK! Like...ASAP!
And don't eat the green ones..... ;)
December 12, 2013
I didn't find this book very interesting. The theme is cliched and there is nothing special about the characters. The chemistry between Rachael and Kash is just plain. Again the friendship of Rachael and Candice is nowhere near heartwarming. Candice can't be even considered a good friend. I am disappointed.
August 7, 2016
SPOILER FREE REVIEW -mature content reader discretion is advised.
3.5 STARS out of 5
Genre: New Adult Romance
FULL review posted 4-16-14
SECRETS – LIES – LOVE And a Serial KILLER
After losing her parents Rachel Masters was lucky to have her best friend Candice along with her loving family; whom upon hearing the devastating news willingly took her in. In the dark months following their death the only one who helped to bring Rachel out of the darkness was Eli, Candice’s older brother. As time passed she found ways to help heal and cope with her day to day life.
But even now years later Rachel still finds it hard some days.
Rachel and her best friend Candice always do everything together so of course they choose to attend the same college. Traveling all the way from sunny California to the deep dirty south of Texas. Both girls are currently finishing up their junior year when something unthinkable happens.
Logan Kash Ryan is a Florida cop, he’s been working under in narcotics with his partner Mason for five years under deep cover. When a recent case goes awry they both find themselves being shipped off to Texas to investigate a serial killer. It’s in Texas where Kash working undercover meets his beautiful new neighbor Rachel Masters. A woman he knows he needs to stay away from to maintain the focus he needs to catch a killer...yet he just can’t seem to stay away.
Rachel and Kash are truly adorable together. What starts off as a platonic friendship slowly blossoms in to more. And yes, there was definitely a spark between these two in the beginning only neither was looking for a relationship. Kash is career driven and Rachel is dealing with some things that will impact any relationship she decides to have in the future.
Kash and Rachel finally make it official as a killer gets bolder and starts to close in on his next target.
My final thoughts
Forgiving Lies by Molly McAdams has a lot of appeal however for me it hit right below the mark. I thought it was good so don’t get me wrong the story managed to hold my attention. The characters are easy to fall for. There were a few sugary sweet moments that I found a bit cheesy but cheesy in a good way.
I thought one of the best things about the book is that the two main characters are friends before they take it o the next level. No insta-love here so that was a plus.
I was NOT a fan of the best friend Candice she only did one thing good in my humble opinion and it would be a spoiler if I tell so I won’t… Seriously I thought she was a bit*h.
My Rating and Why
Forgiving Lies gets a 3.5 STAR rating from me because it failed to give me that one two punch. This may be a case of the 'it’s me not you' because it definitely hit the spot for many of my Goodread friends soooo…yeah I think it’s more so me on this one. But hey you can’t win them all. The book is good and as of now I am a bit unsure if I wish to continue the series. Only time will tell ;)
My Ratings
Characters- Sweet, sometimes too sugary for me
Writing Style- Good, it has a well developed plot and a diverse group of characters
Plot/Storyline- An undercover cop falls for his neighbor while trying to find a serial killer
Steam Factor- Medium/ Steamy on a scale of 1-10 I say 6.5
Entertainment Level- On a scale of Lo-Med-Hi I say Medium
Overall- I liked it, I did not LOVE it
My Recommendation: Check it out! Maybe get the sample and see if it’s a read for you!
Now go forth and read. Then come tell us about it on Goodreads!
For more reviews got to: www.realitybites-letsgetlost.blogspot...
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3.5 STARS out of 5
Genre: New Adult Romance
FULL review posted 4-16-14
SECRETS – LIES – LOVE And a Serial KILLER
After losing her parents Rachel Masters was lucky to have her best friend Candice along with her loving family; whom upon hearing the devastating news willingly took her in. In the dark months following their death the only one who helped to bring Rachel out of the darkness was Eli, Candice’s older brother. As time passed she found ways to help heal and cope with her day to day life.
But even now years later Rachel still finds it hard some days.
Rachel and her best friend Candice always do everything together so of course they choose to attend the same college. Traveling all the way from sunny California to the deep dirty south of Texas. Both girls are currently finishing up their junior year when something unthinkable happens.
Logan Kash Ryan is a Florida cop, he’s been working under in narcotics with his partner Mason for five years under deep cover. When a recent case goes awry they both find themselves being shipped off to Texas to investigate a serial killer. It’s in Texas where Kash working undercover meets his beautiful new neighbor Rachel Masters. A woman he knows he needs to stay away from to maintain the focus he needs to catch a killer...yet he just can’t seem to stay away.
Rachel and Kash are truly adorable together. What starts off as a platonic friendship slowly blossoms in to more. And yes, there was definitely a spark between these two in the beginning only neither was looking for a relationship. Kash is career driven and Rachel is dealing with some things that will impact any relationship she decides to have in the future.
Kash and Rachel finally make it official as a killer gets bolder and starts to close in on his next target.
My final thoughts
Forgiving Lies by Molly McAdams has a lot of appeal however for me it hit right below the mark. I thought it was good so don’t get me wrong the story managed to hold my attention. The characters are easy to fall for. There were a few sugary sweet moments that I found a bit cheesy but cheesy in a good way.
I thought one of the best things about the book is that the two main characters are friends before they take it o the next level. No insta-love here so that was a plus.
I was NOT a fan of the best friend Candice she only did one thing good in my humble opinion and it would be a spoiler if I tell so I won’t… Seriously I thought she was a bit*h.
My Rating and Why
Forgiving Lies gets a 3.5 STAR rating from me because it failed to give me that one two punch. This may be a case of the 'it’s me not you' because it definitely hit the spot for many of my Goodread friends soooo…yeah I think it’s more so me on this one. But hey you can’t win them all. The book is good and as of now I am a bit unsure if I wish to continue the series. Only time will tell ;)
My Ratings
Characters- Sweet, sometimes too sugary for me
Writing Style- Good, it has a well developed plot and a diverse group of characters
Plot/Storyline- An undercover cop falls for his neighbor while trying to find a serial killer
Steam Factor- Medium/ Steamy on a scale of 1-10 I say 6.5
Entertainment Level- On a scale of Lo-Med-Hi I say Medium
Overall- I liked it, I did not LOVE it
My Recommendation: Check it out! Maybe get the sample and see if it’s a read for you!
Now go forth and read. Then come tell us about it on Goodreads!
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July 21, 2016
HOW HAVE I WAITED THIS LONG TO READ THIS BOOK? My sister read Forgiving Lies forever ago and I remember her saying that it was awesome, but I just never got around to reading it. I picked it up for the "yellow book" challenge for the booktubeathon and I gobbled this book up in one day.
Undercover cop Kash can't have any distractions when he's undercover, especially the new case that he and his partner have been put on. Finding the serious killer The Carnation Killer is imperative so that more girls don't die. Rachel is done with guys, but when gorgeous, infuriating Kash moves across the hall, they can't stop being around each other. Tension soon turns into undeniable chemistry, but Kash's lies may be too big for even them to overcome.
Ooooooh this book. I mean, with a guy like Kash, I was bound to love this book. It was so adorable how much Rachel and Kash bickered when they first met and how easy it was for them to fall into a friendships. Rachel's supposed best friend was such a horrible person and I had a hard time understanding how Rachel was even still friends with her, especially with how she had reacted to what had happened to Rachel at the end of the book. I mean, she didn't even try to listen to Rachel's side and it was her best friend! That aside, Kash and Rachel's friendship was so adorable and I was left begging for them to just get together already. And when they did? Fireworks. Oh, and I loved Kash's partner Mason. Such a fun character and an actual good friend.
Not only was this an amazing romance, but it had it's mystery/thriller side as well. I mean, Kash is an undercover cop looking for a serial killer. Obviously, the serial killer is going to make an appearance. And, Rachel goes through some pretty scary, crappy stuff that had me so scared for her on multiple occasions. And that ending!!! How could Molly end the book that way?!?!? All I can say is that I need book two ASAP.
What more can I say? I freaking loved this book and devoured the dangerous and addicting story inside. Kash is so swoon worthy and I loved how hard and fast he fell for Rachel. Seriously, go read this book. Right now. You need it. Everyone could use a little cash in their lives.
Undercover cop Kash can't have any distractions when he's undercover, especially the new case that he and his partner have been put on. Finding the serious killer The Carnation Killer is imperative so that more girls don't die. Rachel is done with guys, but when gorgeous, infuriating Kash moves across the hall, they can't stop being around each other. Tension soon turns into undeniable chemistry, but Kash's lies may be too big for even them to overcome.
Ooooooh this book. I mean, with a guy like Kash, I was bound to love this book. It was so adorable how much Rachel and Kash bickered when they first met and how easy it was for them to fall into a friendships. Rachel's supposed best friend was such a horrible person and I had a hard time understanding how Rachel was even still friends with her, especially with how she had reacted to what had happened to Rachel at the end of the book. I mean, she didn't even try to listen to Rachel's side and it was her best friend! That aside, Kash and Rachel's friendship was so adorable and I was left begging for them to just get together already. And when they did? Fireworks. Oh, and I loved Kash's partner Mason. Such a fun character and an actual good friend.
Not only was this an amazing romance, but it had it's mystery/thriller side as well. I mean, Kash is an undercover cop looking for a serial killer. Obviously, the serial killer is going to make an appearance. And, Rachel goes through some pretty scary, crappy stuff that had me so scared for her on multiple occasions. And that ending!!! How could Molly end the book that way?!?!? All I can say is that I need book two ASAP.
What more can I say? I freaking loved this book and devoured the dangerous and addicting story inside. Kash is so swoon worthy and I loved how hard and fast he fell for Rachel. Seriously, go read this book. Right now. You need it. Everyone could use a little cash in their lives.
October 22, 2013
Why only 2 stars? Obviously it is a popular book and a popular author. It has steamy sex scenes. The story is filled with tension and jump scenes. The truth is, it lacked depth, was very predictable (except the last humdinger), and I thought the writing style was sophomoric. True, one of the protagonists was only 21 but the author isn't. Sometimes I felt like I was reading a teenager's diary. Repetitive visions in the mind that spilled out on the page and poor use of language. I'm not even talking about the swearing, although the language is much more harsh than usual. Like I said, it read like a teenager's diary. When I say diary, I kind of man fantasy world.
I'm making it sounds worse than it is. it's a fine way to spend an evening. I did find myself skimming repetitive ruminations. There is a psychological Ted Bundy aspect but too many people involved in such an elaborate ruse to get the girl. Too many loose ends for it to be even slightly believable. It was just dumb.
I'm making it sounds worse than it is. it's a fine way to spend an evening. I did find myself skimming repetitive ruminations. There is a psychological Ted Bundy aspect but too many people involved in such an elaborate ruse to get the girl. Too many loose ends for it to be even slightly believable. It was just dumb.
June 12, 2016
Eigentlich gebe ich Büchern aus diesem Genre nie mehr als 4 Sterne, weil sie mir nie besonders genug sind. Der erste Teil der "Love & Lies"-Bücher ist aber einfach so gut, da konnte ich nicht anders.
Rachel und Kash sind so perfekt zusammen. Zwischen ihnen sprühen die Funken und es gibt keine künstlichen Dramen.
Die Geschichte ist noch dazu sehr spannend und emotional. Ganz gemein ist der fiese Cliffhanger, aber in zwei Monaten erscheint ja schon die Fortsetzung *_*
Rachel und Kash sind so perfekt zusammen. Zwischen ihnen sprühen die Funken und es gibt keine künstlichen Dramen.
Die Geschichte ist noch dazu sehr spannend und emotional. Ganz gemein ist der fiese Cliffhanger, aber in zwei Monaten erscheint ja schon die Fortsetzung *_*
Shelved as 'top-tbr'
May 18, 2013There's a lot of buzz with Molly McAdams books, I need see what the fuss is about.
March 22, 2017
Sorry, aber das Buch ist echt beschissen
February 23, 2014
Previously reviewed on The Good, The Bad, & The Unread:
I really felt that this book needed to come with a strong warning, or at least a more accurate blurb. For much of the first two chapters I felt as if I was reading a different book to the one described, although with a similarly named and described heroine. The book begins with Rachel being pressured into dating her best friend’s cousin (I really wanted to tell the best friend to date the cousin herself if he was that wonderful, but then I remembered that you mostly don’t do that sort of thing across the pond). The cousin in question turns out to be first a player, then borderline abusive, then a potential rapist in a scene which was harrowing for me and a potential trigger for others. No one believes Rachel, and she inexplicably continues in her plan to spend the summer break sharing an apartment with her best friend – the cousin and ardent admirer of the guy who tried to rape Rachel! Then suddenly, at the beginning of Chapter Three, we meet the hero of the story…
Logan, aka Kash, is an undercover cop, working with his best friend Mason on narcotics cases. Their most recent case has gone badly with Mason being threatened with disciplinary action for punching a restrained suspect (didn’t that sort of behaviour go out in the 1970s?) and a hit has been placed on the two cops by the bad guys in that case. So they are randomly transferred to another state and a completely different type of undercover assignment – hunting a serial killer who preys on young women (yes, this book repeatedly stretches credibility). Naturally, this being Romancelandia, they rent the apartment opposite that rented by Rachel and her best friend, Candice.
Candice and Mason hook up almost immediately – although not on a remotely exclusive basis – and Rachel is ejected from the apartment (in her pyjamas!), even though she and Candice now have multiple rooms in which to conduct their separate activities. She and Kash then go shopping (with Rachel still in her pyjamas – you’d think he’d lend her jeans and a T-shirt at the very least!) and they blow vast sums of the police department’s budget on furniture for the bare apartment. Not that this is at all suspicious behaviour, of course, when the boys are posing as drifter-bartenders.
The book then turns into a good-girl/bad-boy friends-to-lovers story, which occasionally remembers that Rachel was raped (the attempted part having been forgotten in her flashbacks) and that Kash is an undercover police officer, until Rachel gains a stalker, who turns out to be working for her would-be-rapist ex- (who no one has considered might be linked to Kash and Mason’s investigation). So Kash drags her off on an impromptu holiday and then proposes to her, still without telling Rachel who he really is, or anything about his reason for being in town. And am I missing something, or does no one in this story use social media to communicate and/or search engines to check out potential partners? In a story with characters in their early to mid twenties, I find that a little unlikely these days.
Of course, Rachel becomes the target of the serial killer, and Kash’s mission is revealed when he charges in to rescue her (at which point we learn that the villain of the piece has managed to outwit the police pair and their allies in all kinds of unlikely ways). The pair fall out over this, are reunited at last and then start planning their wedding, including one of my pet peeves: the abandoning of condoms as proof that this is a lasting relationship (because in Romancelandia true love means never having to be tested for STDs first). We then get ‘treated’ to the epilogue… which turns out to be a set-up for the next book: no happy ending here after all, so don’t read this book if that’s what you want from a romance.
I have no intention of reading the next in the series after all those let-downs, and really can’t understand why the book has had such good reviews elsewhere. Read it if you want a bad boy hero who really isn’t, and don’t mind the happy ending being destroyed by the epilogue, but avoid if you want any sort of police competence in your characters and plot, or require a story in which the heroine doesn’t repeatedly get almost ‘fridged’ (to use comic book parlance).
I really felt that this book needed to come with a strong warning, or at least a more accurate blurb. For much of the first two chapters I felt as if I was reading a different book to the one described, although with a similarly named and described heroine. The book begins with Rachel being pressured into dating her best friend’s cousin (I really wanted to tell the best friend to date the cousin herself if he was that wonderful, but then I remembered that you mostly don’t do that sort of thing across the pond). The cousin in question turns out to be first a player, then borderline abusive, then a potential rapist in a scene which was harrowing for me and a potential trigger for others. No one believes Rachel, and she inexplicably continues in her plan to spend the summer break sharing an apartment with her best friend – the cousin and ardent admirer of the guy who tried to rape Rachel! Then suddenly, at the beginning of Chapter Three, we meet the hero of the story…
Logan, aka Kash, is an undercover cop, working with his best friend Mason on narcotics cases. Their most recent case has gone badly with Mason being threatened with disciplinary action for punching a restrained suspect (didn’t that sort of behaviour go out in the 1970s?) and a hit has been placed on the two cops by the bad guys in that case. So they are randomly transferred to another state and a completely different type of undercover assignment – hunting a serial killer who preys on young women (yes, this book repeatedly stretches credibility). Naturally, this being Romancelandia, they rent the apartment opposite that rented by Rachel and her best friend, Candice.
Candice and Mason hook up almost immediately – although not on a remotely exclusive basis – and Rachel is ejected from the apartment (in her pyjamas!), even though she and Candice now have multiple rooms in which to conduct their separate activities. She and Kash then go shopping (with Rachel still in her pyjamas – you’d think he’d lend her jeans and a T-shirt at the very least!) and they blow vast sums of the police department’s budget on furniture for the bare apartment. Not that this is at all suspicious behaviour, of course, when the boys are posing as drifter-bartenders.
The book then turns into a good-girl/bad-boy friends-to-lovers story, which occasionally remembers that Rachel was raped (the attempted part having been forgotten in her flashbacks) and that Kash is an undercover police officer, until Rachel gains a stalker, who turns out to be working for her would-be-rapist ex- (who no one has considered might be linked to Kash and Mason’s investigation). So Kash drags her off on an impromptu holiday and then proposes to her, still without telling Rachel who he really is, or anything about his reason for being in town. And am I missing something, or does no one in this story use social media to communicate and/or search engines to check out potential partners? In a story with characters in their early to mid twenties, I find that a little unlikely these days.
Of course, Rachel becomes the target of the serial killer, and Kash’s mission is revealed when he charges in to rescue her (at which point we learn that the villain of the piece has managed to outwit the police pair and their allies in all kinds of unlikely ways). The pair fall out over this, are reunited at last and then start planning their wedding, including one of my pet peeves: the abandoning of condoms as proof that this is a lasting relationship (because in Romancelandia true love means never having to be tested for STDs first). We then get ‘treated’ to the epilogue… which turns out to be a set-up for the next book: no happy ending here after all, so don’t read this book if that’s what you want from a romance.
I have no intention of reading the next in the series after all those let-downs, and really can’t understand why the book has had such good reviews elsewhere. Read it if you want a bad boy hero who really isn’t, and don’t mind the happy ending being destroyed by the epilogue, but avoid if you want any sort of police competence in your characters and plot, or require a story in which the heroine doesn’t repeatedly get almost ‘fridged’ (to use comic book parlance).
June 7, 2015
Forgiving Lies is the first book in the Forgiving Lies series. It is my second book by Molly McAdams (the first was Taking Chances).
The narrators are 21 year old Rachel (in college) and undercover cop Kash (26).
When the book starts Rachel has left California and followed her best friend Candice to college in Texas. Candice's cousin Blake lives in Texas too. Rachel had a huge crush on him when she was a kid. And now Blake is a trainer at their university. And he really wants to date Rachel.
Kash and his friend Mason have just moved to Texas (from Florida) to work on a case. I absolutely loved these two friends. What awesome characters.
I really enjoyed Rachel and I thought that her story was very interesting. Even though this book was predictable in many ways. **huge spoiler** I still could not put this book down. I really enjoyed it. And truthfully in the beginning the story did not go at all like I was expecting.
Just a warning. Unlike the Taking Chances series where Stealing Harper is an alternate POV book this book ends with a huge cliffhanger. I was thinking that Deceiving Lies would either be an alternate POV or just more of the story. I really was not expecting that big cliffhanger.
Forgiving Lies is a cross between a New Adult and Adult contemporary romance. It really was addictive. I really liked it.
October 28, 2013
I was lucky enough to have access to this ARC- I will post a full review on the blog closer to release date, but here are my quick notes :)
Molly McAdams is a gifted writer. I ‘ve read and loved all of her published books and was very excited to receive an ARC of Forgiving Lies for review. Following the trend from her previous books she emotionally invests you in her characters and will keep you on the edge of your seat, flipping the pages to quickly see what is coming next. I have yet to read a book of hers that I would describe as predictable! I never know what she is going to throw my way and I enjoy every second of waiting to see what will happen next.
Forgiving Lies is another homerun. This book gets 5 STARS from SYMFB and I think one of the best ways to enjoy this book is to avoid spoilers, you need to experience this book on your own! Take a chance on Kash and Rachel, it will be money well spent!
Molly McAdams is a gifted writer. I ‘ve read and loved all of her published books and was very excited to receive an ARC of Forgiving Lies for review. Following the trend from her previous books she emotionally invests you in her characters and will keep you on the edge of your seat, flipping the pages to quickly see what is coming next. I have yet to read a book of hers that I would describe as predictable! I never know what she is going to throw my way and I enjoy every second of waiting to see what will happen next.
Forgiving Lies is another homerun. This book gets 5 STARS from SYMFB and I think one of the best ways to enjoy this book is to avoid spoilers, you need to experience this book on your own! Take a chance on Kash and Rachel, it will be money well spent!
October 31, 2013
Amazing! Kash and Rachel were just great! It had romance, banter, angst, pancakes and sour patch kids. The mystery really kept me on edge and I had to hold my breath a couple of times towards the end. Pacing wise, there were more than a couple of jumbled time lapses, but the writing was so good, that I didn't let myself care. Now, that ending, oh that ending...I should really take a star off for that out of the blue, mind-blowingly frustrating cliffhanger. I'm not one to ever bring these up or much care, but it literally came out of nowhere, and then the book was over and I was just confused. So, though I loved this story, if your not a fan of unresolved plots, wait for the sequel before reading!
Also, it should be noted
Also, it should be noted
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