thebritishbibliophile_'s review against another edition
5.0
'Lilian Harris does it again. She's going two-for-two in her smash-hit series. Watch this space, ladies and gentlemen. Watch. This. Space. You have a shelf-worthy series right here. - The British Bibliophile_
Thank you to Lilian Harris for sending me an ebook Advanced Readers Copy for me to read and leave an honest review as part of her ARC team
I was first made aware of Lilian Harris with the first book in the Messina Crime Family series, Sinful Vows, and immediately I knew I had found a top-quality author right off the bat. I was so blown away with the sheer prowess of Sinful Vows, that I made it my first ever top read of 2023. I said in my review for SV that I was 'in it for the long haul', a statement I fully back up and am so glad I said because book two? W.O.A.H! Though it wasn't long between the two books, the haul to get here was definitely worth it!
Cruel Lies picks the Messina Crime Family story up focusing on two different main characters, Nicolette and Raph. Raph is the brother to the main mafia man we met in book one, Michael Marino. A man not to be messed with and would do anything for the little girl woven around his finger, he's also fiercely loyal and would mess up anyone who messed with his family. Even if it was family themselves. This protective streak extends to Raph, who we got to briefly meet and get to know. Now all his mysteries, his past and everything that surrounds him or lurks in the dark, will be brought into the light. Nicolette going with him.
Nicolette as told to us in Sinful Vows, is the younger sister to Raph's late wife. A young lady with a complicated and troubled background, she's brought into the world of the mafia's underworld--though not an active member--thanks to her sister's connection to Raph. Even in the afterlife, that connection ties Nicolette to what the Marino men are trying to shield her from. But even the toughest of shields have a weak spot, and Nicolette IS that weak spot for their underworld empire, thanks to his late wife. He sees no other option but to do his best in shielding her from that world, one-on-one, alone, in a cabin. Yay for the forced proximity trope!
Having pushed her away all those years ago when Nicolette's young heart and soul was as fragile as a dove, how will things go between her and Raph when the two are hunkered down together in the cabin? Tensions and tempers sizzle, and it's only a matter of time before one or even both of them, answer the call of temptation. Bets are on for who will be the one to cave first. Place them now, folks.
(Oh, and did I mention this is also an age-gap romance? No? Now you know. Yay for another one of my favourites!)
Now twenty-one and under Raph (and his protection), it's only a matter of time before the past and the people wanting to hurt her and the Marinos come to call. Raph will need all of his focus to protect both of them, which is not easy when Nicolette is no longer the slip of a girl with her innocence, but is a grown woman with curves, only retaining one slither of her innocence which belongs to Raph and only Raph. Bring a cool drink with you folks, you'll need that cool down because goodness gracious me, what a man! What a performance! If you know, you know.
It's not all what goes on between the sheets, you'll be pleased to hear. I signed up originally to read Sinful Vows because I am a sucker for dark mafia romance, and this book gives it all the delicious dark mafia goodness. Along with a few surprises I certainly did not see coming! Love those moments! I'm seeing more and more of them pop up in the books I love by authors I cannot get enough of, and I'm thrilled Lilian has now joined those ranks. You'll be as pleasantly surprised as I was, trust me. She's THAT good and I can say with full confidence that book three will no doubt only continue to emphasise the message that Lilian is an author who has not only got talent in her fingertips, but is one to watch and belongs on the shelf of every die-hard dark romance/mafia romance lover.
Cruel Lies, although consumed in a day (because it was THAT good, again!) is a book I will one hundred percent be visiting again and will have along with Sinful Vows, on my bookcase with much pride and admiration. I'm beyond happy and blessed to have chosen Lilian Harris as a brand new author to read, and I'll definitely be sticking around for long into the future for as long as she'll have me at her mercy.
Five stars!
------------------------
Audiobook ALC Review - November 17th, 2023
Cruel Lies , book two in Lilian Harris’ Messina Crime Family series, narrated by Troy Duran and Brooke Daniels.
After immersing myself head-first into a series which still to this day has me in the ultimate bookish chokehold, I'm back in the world of the Messina Crime Family with another audiobook adaptation. This time we're being treated to book two in the series, which is another standalone read/listen, where two new sets of main characters--who have made an appearance in book one--, get their own story told.
After listening to the audiobook for book one, Cruel Lies, I was more than sold and down for listening to the next audiobook. My wish was granted and I didn't have to wait long for that to come true. This audiobook was much welcome into my growing Audible library, and it's one I will definitely come back to again at some point in the future. It's not a one-and-done kind of listen. You'll keep coming back for more, and more, and more.
So, who are we getting to guide is on this audio-journey this time? Some of you may have spotted their names at the start of this ALC review, but let's introduce you to them properly. Taking the reins as Raf is the incredible Troy Duran. I've had the immense pleasure of listening to him before on a few audiobooks, so I'm thrilled to add to my listening repertoire this co-narration with himself and Brooke Daniels. Brooke steps up as Nicolette, a strong and determined-to-survive young lady with plenty of fire. To my knowledge, I don't think I've listened to an audiobook with Brooke Daniels in it before, so this was a chance for me to get to know her and her narration style.
If you've read the book version of Cruel Lies, you'll know just how charged it is with passion, tension, steam, angst, drama and oh so much more. Take that and crank it up tenfold, because this audiobook is bringing you the feelings and emotions out of the pages and into your ears. Thanks to the outstanding narration by these two, you'll feel every word. Troy embodies everything that is Raf. Every grumble, growl and even grin--like with the first book--required some much-needed pause time to recover before continuing on. I'd give Troy's performance a resounding 10/10 on the blush-0-meter. Brooke in her respective performance as Nicolette elicited a whole host of other emotions and feelings, including relatability. I felt Nicolette's pain, upset and hurt. Did I weep a little? Of course I did. She. Was. That. Good. Brilliant pairing, brilliant co-narration. Brilliant casting choice.
Though I knew what was coming having read the book previously to listening to this audiobook, I was transported right back to the beginning and told their tale from a whole new angle. It's one thing to read the book and have it in your imagination how things appear in the mind, how things come across in our hearts, but to hear the essence of the author's story and its intended meanings brought to our ears? It's a whole other experience. One I felt like I was experiencing all over again as if it were the first time. From the first second to the last, I was mesmerised.
I've even bookmarked certain chapters/moments within this audiobook to specifically go back to, because Troy and Brooke just nailed them--as frankly they did the whole book--, they've become moments to go back to and indulge in over and over. Hopefully you'll have your own moments to go back to once you've listened to this book.
Thank you to Lilian for having me on your ARC and now your ALC team. This is the second audible treat that I highly recommend others to listen to if you want a thrilling tale, ten-star narration and repeat-worthy listening book.
Five stars!
Thank you to Lilian Harris for sending me an ebook Advanced Readers Copy for me to read and leave an honest review as part of her ARC team
I was first made aware of Lilian Harris with the first book in the Messina Crime Family series, Sinful Vows, and immediately I knew I had found a top-quality author right off the bat. I was so blown away with the sheer prowess of Sinful Vows, that I made it my first ever top read of 2023. I said in my review for SV that I was 'in it for the long haul', a statement I fully back up and am so glad I said because book two? W.O.A.H! Though it wasn't long between the two books, the haul to get here was definitely worth it!
Cruel Lies picks the Messina Crime Family story up focusing on two different main characters, Nicolette and Raph. Raph is the brother to the main mafia man we met in book one, Michael Marino. A man not to be messed with and would do anything for the little girl woven around his finger, he's also fiercely loyal and would mess up anyone who messed with his family. Even if it was family themselves. This protective streak extends to Raph, who we got to briefly meet and get to know. Now all his mysteries, his past and everything that surrounds him or lurks in the dark, will be brought into the light. Nicolette going with him.
Nicolette as told to us in Sinful Vows, is the younger sister to Raph's late wife. A young lady with a complicated and troubled background, she's brought into the world of the mafia's underworld--though not an active member--thanks to her sister's connection to Raph. Even in the afterlife, that connection ties Nicolette to what the Marino men are trying to shield her from. But even the toughest of shields have a weak spot, and Nicolette IS that weak spot for their underworld empire, thanks to his late wife. He sees no other option but to do his best in shielding her from that world, one-on-one, alone, in a cabin. Yay for the forced proximity trope!
Having pushed her away all those years ago when Nicolette's young heart and soul was as fragile as a dove, how will things go between her and Raph when the two are hunkered down together in the cabin? Tensions and tempers sizzle, and it's only a matter of time before one or even both of them, answer the call of temptation. Bets are on for who will be the one to cave first. Place them now, folks.
(Oh, and did I mention this is also an age-gap romance? No? Now you know. Yay for another one of my favourites!)
Now twenty-one and under Raph (and his protection), it's only a matter of time before the past and the people wanting to hurt her and the Marinos come to call. Raph will need all of his focus to protect both of them, which is not easy when Nicolette is no longer the slip of a girl with her innocence, but is a grown woman with curves, only retaining one slither of her innocence which belongs to Raph and only Raph. Bring a cool drink with you folks, you'll need that cool down because goodness gracious me, what a man! What a performance! If you know, you know.
It's not all what goes on between the sheets, you'll be pleased to hear. I signed up originally to read Sinful Vows because I am a sucker for dark mafia romance, and this book gives it all the delicious dark mafia goodness. Along with a few surprises I certainly did not see coming! Love those moments! I'm seeing more and more of them pop up in the books I love by authors I cannot get enough of, and I'm thrilled Lilian has now joined those ranks. You'll be as pleasantly surprised as I was, trust me. She's THAT good and I can say with full confidence that book three will no doubt only continue to emphasise the message that Lilian is an author who has not only got talent in her fingertips, but is one to watch and belongs on the shelf of every die-hard dark romance/mafia romance lover.
Cruel Lies, although consumed in a day (because it was THAT good, again!) is a book I will one hundred percent be visiting again and will have along with Sinful Vows, on my bookcase with much pride and admiration. I'm beyond happy and blessed to have chosen Lilian Harris as a brand new author to read, and I'll definitely be sticking around for long into the future for as long as she'll have me at her mercy.
Five stars!
------------------------
Audiobook ALC Review - November 17th, 2023
Cruel Lies , book two in Lilian Harris’ Messina Crime Family series, narrated by Troy Duran and Brooke Daniels.
After immersing myself head-first into a series which still to this day has me in the ultimate bookish chokehold, I'm back in the world of the Messina Crime Family with another audiobook adaptation. This time we're being treated to book two in the series, which is another standalone read/listen, where two new sets of main characters--who have made an appearance in book one--, get their own story told.
After listening to the audiobook for book one, Cruel Lies, I was more than sold and down for listening to the next audiobook. My wish was granted and I didn't have to wait long for that to come true. This audiobook was much welcome into my growing Audible library, and it's one I will definitely come back to again at some point in the future. It's not a one-and-done kind of listen. You'll keep coming back for more, and more, and more.
So, who are we getting to guide is on this audio-journey this time? Some of you may have spotted their names at the start of this ALC review, but let's introduce you to them properly. Taking the reins as Raf is the incredible Troy Duran. I've had the immense pleasure of listening to him before on a few audiobooks, so I'm thrilled to add to my listening repertoire this co-narration with himself and Brooke Daniels. Brooke steps up as Nicolette, a strong and determined-to-survive young lady with plenty of fire. To my knowledge, I don't think I've listened to an audiobook with Brooke Daniels in it before, so this was a chance for me to get to know her and her narration style.
If you've read the book version of Cruel Lies, you'll know just how charged it is with passion, tension, steam, angst, drama and oh so much more. Take that and crank it up tenfold, because this audiobook is bringing you the feelings and emotions out of the pages and into your ears. Thanks to the outstanding narration by these two, you'll feel every word. Troy embodies everything that is Raf. Every grumble, growl and even grin--like with the first book--required some much-needed pause time to recover before continuing on. I'd give Troy's performance a resounding 10/10 on the blush-0-meter. Brooke in her respective performance as Nicolette elicited a whole host of other emotions and feelings, including relatability. I felt Nicolette's pain, upset and hurt. Did I weep a little? Of course I did. She. Was. That. Good. Brilliant pairing, brilliant co-narration. Brilliant casting choice.
Though I knew what was coming having read the book previously to listening to this audiobook, I was transported right back to the beginning and told their tale from a whole new angle. It's one thing to read the book and have it in your imagination how things appear in the mind, how things come across in our hearts, but to hear the essence of the author's story and its intended meanings brought to our ears? It's a whole other experience. One I felt like I was experiencing all over again as if it were the first time. From the first second to the last, I was mesmerised.
I've even bookmarked certain chapters/moments within this audiobook to specifically go back to, because Troy and Brooke just nailed them--as frankly they did the whole book--, they've become moments to go back to and indulge in over and over. Hopefully you'll have your own moments to go back to once you've listened to this book.
Thank you to Lilian for having me on your ARC and now your ALC team. This is the second audible treat that I highly recommend others to listen to if you want a thrilling tale, ten-star narration and repeat-worthy listening book.
Five stars!
shedevilreads's review against another edition
4.0
Cruel Lies by Lilian Harris is a forbidden age gap mafia romance that I listened to on audio narrated by Troy Duran and Brooke Daniels. This is the second book in the Messina Crime Family series.
I loved the chemistry between Raphael and Nicolette. I really enjoyed the slow burn throughout the book as they finally come together. Their relationship is messy and has a lot of hurdles, but you can't help but root for them.
I originally read the book and was so excited when I saw it was coming to audio. Troy and Brooke did a great job on the narration. I look forward to listening to more of their work in the future.
I can't wait for the next book in the series Twisted Promises to be released on audio, so I can get Gio and Iseult's story.
I would recommend this book if you like forbidden romances, age gap romances, mafia romances, or romantic suspense.
I loved the chemistry between Raphael and Nicolette. I really enjoyed the slow burn throughout the book as they finally come together. Their relationship is messy and has a lot of hurdles, but you can't help but root for them.
I originally read the book and was so excited when I saw it was coming to audio. Troy and Brooke did a great job on the narration. I look forward to listening to more of their work in the future.
I can't wait for the next book in the series Twisted Promises to be released on audio, so I can get Gio and Iseult's story.
I would recommend this book if you like forbidden romances, age gap romances, mafia romances, or romantic suspense.
shedevilreads's review against another edition
4.0
Cruel Lies by Lilian Harris is a forbidden age gap mafia romance. This is the second book in the Messina Crime Family series.
I loved the chemistry between Raphael and Nicolette. I really enjoyed the slow burn throughout the book as they finally come together. Their relationship is messy and has a lot of hurdles, but you can't help but root for them.
I can't wait for the next book in the series Twisted Promises to be released on May 15, 2023, so I can get Gio and Iseult's story.
I would recommend this book if you like forbidden romances, age gap romances, mafia romances, or romantic suspense.
I loved the chemistry between Raphael and Nicolette. I really enjoyed the slow burn throughout the book as they finally come together. Their relationship is messy and has a lot of hurdles, but you can't help but root for them.
I can't wait for the next book in the series Twisted Promises to be released on May 15, 2023, so I can get Gio and Iseult's story.
I would recommend this book if you like forbidden romances, age gap romances, mafia romances, or romantic suspense.
britneysromancelibrary's review against another edition
5.0
Lilian Harris has done it again!
This is turning out to be one of my favorite mafia series to read!
When I read the epilogue after the first book with Raph and Nicolette, I was chopping at the bits to read their story! I mean how could you not want to read it after finding out some of the things that have happened to Raph.
Then you throw in what IS happening to poor Nicolette and you are in for a suspenseful ride that will definitely not disappoint you at all. Getting these two together will make you want to scream at your kindle or book.
But I mean what good Mafia book doesn’t make you scream at some point while reading.
Raph and Nicolette are a age-gap, forbidden love story that will pull at your heartstrings for sure. Not just from their story together but also from them individually as well.
Lilian knows how to write some of the best mafia men I have ever read!
.
.
.
5️⃣
This is turning out to be one of my favorite mafia series to read!
When I read the epilogue after the first book with Raph and Nicolette, I was chopping at the bits to read their story! I mean how could you not want to read it after finding out some of the things that have happened to Raph.
Then you throw in what IS happening to poor Nicolette and you are in for a suspenseful ride that will definitely not disappoint you at all. Getting these two together will make you want to scream at your kindle or book.
But I mean what good Mafia book doesn’t make you scream at some point while reading.
Raph and Nicolette are a age-gap, forbidden love story that will pull at your heartstrings for sure. Not just from their story together but also from them individually as well.
Lilian knows how to write some of the best mafia men I have ever read!
.
.
.
5️⃣
thebritishbibliophile_'s review
5.0
'Lilian Harris does it again. She's going two-for-two in her smash-hit series. Watch this space, ladies and gentlemen. Watch. This. Space. You have a shelf-worthy series right here. - The British Bibliophile_
Thank you to Lilian Harris for sending me an ebook Advanced Readers Copy for me to read and leave an honest review as part of her ARC team
I was first made aware of Lilian Harris with the first book in the Messina Crime Family series, Sinful Vows, and immediately I knew I had found a top-quality author right off the bat. I was so blown away with the sheer prowess of Sinful Vows, that I made it my first ever top read of 2023. I said in my review for SV that I was 'in it for the long haul', a statement I fully back up and am so glad I said because book two? W.O.A.H! Though it wasn't long between the two books, the haul to get here was definitely worth it!
Cruel Lies picks the Messina Crime Family story up focusing on two different main characters, Nicolette and Raph. Raph is the brother to the main mafia man we met in book one, Michael Marino. A man not to be messed with and would do anything for the little girl woven around his finger, he's also fiercely loyal and would mess up anyone who messed with his family. Even if it was family themselves. This protective streak extends to Raph, who we got to briefly meet and get to know. Now all his mysteries, his past and everything that surrounds him or lurks in the dark, will be brought into the light. Nicolette going with him.
Nicolette as told to us in Sinful Vows, is the younger sister to Raph's late wife. A young lady with a complicated and troubled background, she's brought into the world of the mafia's underworld--though not an active member--thanks to her sister's connection to Raph. Even in the afterlife, that connection ties Nicolette to what the Marino men are trying to shield her from. But even the toughest of shields have a weak spot, and Nicolette IS that weak spot for their underworld empire, thanks to his late wife. He sees no other option but to do his best in shielding her from that world, one-on-one, alone, in a cabin. Yay for the forced proximity trope!
Having pushed her away all those years ago when Nicolette's young heart and soul was as fragile as a dove, how will things go between her and Raph when the two are hunkered down together in the cabin? Tensions and tempers sizzle, and it's only a matter of time before one or even both of them, answer the call of temptation. Bets are on for who will be the one to cave first. Place them now, folks.
(Oh, and did I mention this is also an age-gap romance? No? Now you know. Yay for another one of my favourites!)
Now twenty-one and under Raph (and his protection), it's only a matter of time before the past and the people wanting to hurt her and the Marinos come to call. Raph will need all of his focus to protect both of them, which is not easy when Nicolette is no longer the slip of a girl with her innocence, but is a grown woman with curves, only retaining one slither of her innocence which belongs to Raph and only Raph. Bring a cool drink with you folks, you'll need that cool down because goodness gracious me, what a man! What a performance! If you know, you know.
It's not all what goes on between the sheets, you'll be pleased to hear. I signed up originally to read Sinful Vows because I am a sucker for dark mafia romance, and this book gives it all the delicious dark mafia goodness. Along with a few surprises I certainly did not see coming! Love those moments! I'm seeing more and more of them pop up in the books I love by authors I cannot get enough of, and I'm thrilled Lilian has now joined those ranks. You'll be as pleasantly surprised as I was, trust me. She's THAT good and I can say with full confidence that book three will no doubt only continue to emphasise the message that Lilian is an author who has not only got talent in her fingertips, but is one to watch and belongs on the shelf of every die-hard dark romance/mafia romance lover.
Cruel Lies, although consumed in a day (because it was THAT good, again!) is a book I will one hundred percent be visiting again and will have along with Sinful Vows, on my bookcase with much pride and admiration. I'm beyond happy and blessed to have chosen Lilian Harris as a brand new author to read, and I'll definitely be sticking around for long into the future for as long as she'll have me at her mercy.
Five stars!
------------------------
Audiobook ALC Review - November 17th, 2023
Cruel Lies , book two in Lilian Harris’ Messina Crime Family series, narrated by Troy Duran and Brooke Daniels.
After immersing myself head-first into a series which still to this day has me in the ultimate bookish chokehold, I'm back in the world of the Messina Crime Family with another audiobook adaptation. This time we're being treated to book two in the series, which is another standalone read/listen, where two new sets of main characters--who have made an appearance in book one--, get their own story told.
After listening to the audiobook for book one, Cruel Lies, I was more than sold and down for listening to the next audiobook. My wish was granted and I didn't have to wait long for that to come true. This audiobook was much welcome into my growing Audible library, and it's one I will definitely come back to again at some point in the future. It's not a one-and-done kind of listen. You'll keep coming back for more, and more, and more.
So, who are we getting to guide is on this audio-journey this time? Some of you may have spotted their names at the start of this ALC review, but let's introduce you to them properly. Taking the reins as Raf is the incredible Troy Duran. I've had the immense pleasure of listening to him before on a few audiobooks, so I'm thrilled to add to my listening repertoire this co-narration with himself and Brooke Daniels. Brooke steps up as Nicolette, a strong and determined-to-survive young lady with plenty of fire. To my knowledge, I don't think I've listened to an audiobook with Brooke Daniels in it before, so this was a chance for me to get to know her and her narration style.
If you've read the book version of Cruel Lies, you'll know just how charged it is with passion, tension, steam, angst, drama and oh so much more. Take that and crank it up tenfold, because this audiobook is bringing you the feelings and emotions out of the pages and into your ears. Thanks to the outstanding narration by these two, you'll feel every word. Troy embodies everything that is Raf. Every grumble, growl and even grin--like with the first book--required some much-needed pause time to recover before continuing on. I'd give Troy's performance a resounding 10/10 on the blush-0-meter. Brooke in her respective performance as Nicolette elicited a whole host of other emotions and feelings, including relatability. I felt Nicolette's pain, upset and hurt. Did I weep a little? Of course I did. She. Was. That. Good. Brilliant pairing, brilliant co-narration. Brilliant casting choice.
Though I knew what was coming having read the book previously to listening to this audiobook, I was transported right back to the beginning and told their tale from a whole new angle. It's one thing to read the book and have it in your imagination how things appear in the mind, how things come across in our hearts, but to hear the essence of the author's story and its intended meanings brought to our ears? It's a whole other experience. One I felt like I was experiencing all over again as if it were the first time. From the first second to the last, I was mesmerised.
I've even bookmarked certain chapters/moments within this audiobook to specifically go back to, because Troy and Brooke just nailed them--as frankly they did the whole book--, they've become moments to go back to and indulge in over and over. Hopefully you'll have your own moments to go back to once you've listened to this book.
Thank you to Lilian for having me on your ARC and now your ALC team. This is the second audible treat that I highly recommend others to listen to if you want a thrilling tale, ten-star narration and repeat-worthy listening book.
Five stars!
Thank you to Lilian Harris for sending me an ebook Advanced Readers Copy for me to read and leave an honest review as part of her ARC team
I was first made aware of Lilian Harris with the first book in the Messina Crime Family series, Sinful Vows, and immediately I knew I had found a top-quality author right off the bat. I was so blown away with the sheer prowess of Sinful Vows, that I made it my first ever top read of 2023. I said in my review for SV that I was 'in it for the long haul', a statement I fully back up and am so glad I said because book two? W.O.A.H! Though it wasn't long between the two books, the haul to get here was definitely worth it!
Cruel Lies picks the Messina Crime Family story up focusing on two different main characters, Nicolette and Raph. Raph is the brother to the main mafia man we met in book one, Michael Marino. A man not to be messed with and would do anything for the little girl woven around his finger, he's also fiercely loyal and would mess up anyone who messed with his family. Even if it was family themselves. This protective streak extends to Raph, who we got to briefly meet and get to know. Now all his mysteries, his past and everything that surrounds him or lurks in the dark, will be brought into the light. Nicolette going with him.
Nicolette as told to us in Sinful Vows, is the younger sister to Raph's late wife. A young lady with a complicated and troubled background, she's brought into the world of the mafia's underworld--though not an active member--thanks to her sister's connection to Raph. Even in the afterlife, that connection ties Nicolette to what the Marino men are trying to shield her from. But even the toughest of shields have a weak spot, and Nicolette IS that weak spot for their underworld empire, thanks to his late wife. He sees no other option but to do his best in shielding her from that world, one-on-one, alone, in a cabin. Yay for the forced proximity trope!
Having pushed her away all those years ago when Nicolette's young heart and soul was as fragile as a dove, how will things go between her and Raph when the two are hunkered down together in the cabin? Tensions and tempers sizzle, and it's only a matter of time before one or even both of them, answer the call of temptation. Bets are on for who will be the one to cave first. Place them now, folks.
(Oh, and did I mention this is also an age-gap romance? No? Now you know. Yay for another one of my favourites!)
Now twenty-one and under Raph (and his protection), it's only a matter of time before the past and the people wanting to hurt her and the Marinos come to call. Raph will need all of his focus to protect both of them, which is not easy when Nicolette is no longer the slip of a girl with her innocence, but is a grown woman with curves, only retaining one slither of her innocence which belongs to Raph and only Raph. Bring a cool drink with you folks, you'll need that cool down because goodness gracious me, what a man! What a performance! If you know, you know.
It's not all what goes on between the sheets, you'll be pleased to hear. I signed up originally to read Sinful Vows because I am a sucker for dark mafia romance, and this book gives it all the delicious dark mafia goodness. Along with a few surprises I certainly did not see coming! Love those moments! I'm seeing more and more of them pop up in the books I love by authors I cannot get enough of, and I'm thrilled Lilian has now joined those ranks. You'll be as pleasantly surprised as I was, trust me. She's THAT good and I can say with full confidence that book three will no doubt only continue to emphasise the message that Lilian is an author who has not only got talent in her fingertips, but is one to watch and belongs on the shelf of every die-hard dark romance/mafia romance lover.
Cruel Lies, although consumed in a day (because it was THAT good, again!) is a book I will one hundred percent be visiting again and will have along with Sinful Vows, on my bookcase with much pride and admiration. I'm beyond happy and blessed to have chosen Lilian Harris as a brand new author to read, and I'll definitely be sticking around for long into the future for as long as she'll have me at her mercy.
Five stars!
------------------------
Audiobook ALC Review - November 17th, 2023
Cruel Lies , book two in Lilian Harris’ Messina Crime Family series, narrated by Troy Duran and Brooke Daniels.
After immersing myself head-first into a series which still to this day has me in the ultimate bookish chokehold, I'm back in the world of the Messina Crime Family with another audiobook adaptation. This time we're being treated to book two in the series, which is another standalone read/listen, where two new sets of main characters--who have made an appearance in book one--, get their own story told.
After listening to the audiobook for book one, Cruel Lies, I was more than sold and down for listening to the next audiobook. My wish was granted and I didn't have to wait long for that to come true. This audiobook was much welcome into my growing Audible library, and it's one I will definitely come back to again at some point in the future. It's not a one-and-done kind of listen. You'll keep coming back for more, and more, and more.
So, who are we getting to guide is on this audio-journey this time? Some of you may have spotted their names at the start of this ALC review, but let's introduce you to them properly. Taking the reins as Raf is the incredible Troy Duran. I've had the immense pleasure of listening to him before on a few audiobooks, so I'm thrilled to add to my listening repertoire this co-narration with himself and Brooke Daniels. Brooke steps up as Nicolette, a strong and determined-to-survive young lady with plenty of fire. To my knowledge, I don't think I've listened to an audiobook with Brooke Daniels in it before, so this was a chance for me to get to know her and her narration style.
If you've read the book version of Cruel Lies, you'll know just how charged it is with passion, tension, steam, angst, drama and oh so much more. Take that and crank it up tenfold, because this audiobook is bringing you the feelings and emotions out of the pages and into your ears. Thanks to the outstanding narration by these two, you'll feel every word. Troy embodies everything that is Raf. Every grumble, growl and even grin--like with the first book--required some much-needed pause time to recover before continuing on. I'd give Troy's performance a resounding 10/10 on the blush-0-meter. Brooke in her respective performance as Nicolette elicited a whole host of other emotions and feelings, including relatability. I felt Nicolette's pain, upset and hurt. Did I weep a little? Of course I did. She. Was. That. Good. Brilliant pairing, brilliant co-narration. Brilliant casting choice.
Though I knew what was coming having read the book previously to listening to this audiobook, I was transported right back to the beginning and told their tale from a whole new angle. It's one thing to read the book and have it in your imagination how things appear in the mind, how things come across in our hearts, but to hear the essence of the author's story and its intended meanings brought to our ears? It's a whole other experience. One I felt like I was experiencing all over again as if it were the first time. From the first second to the last, I was mesmerised.
I've even bookmarked certain chapters/moments within this audiobook to specifically go back to, because Troy and Brooke just nailed them--as frankly they did the whole book--, they've become moments to go back to and indulge in over and over. Hopefully you'll have your own moments to go back to once you've listened to this book.
Thank you to Lilian for having me on your ARC and now your ALC team. This is the second audible treat that I highly recommend others to listen to if you want a thrilling tale, ten-star narration and repeat-worthy listening book.
Five stars!
daniela_endless_tbr's review against another edition
dark
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.5
* I listened an ALC & read the Paperback. *
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/6.
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5.
The narration was great. Troy as Raphael is delightful. I loved this one but Sinful Vows are still my fave so far.
The twists in this kept twisting. Loved that.
Sophie as always is a highlight for me.
I can’t wait for the next audiobook!
—
* I read an arc of this book*.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/6.
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5.
First of all i loved the dedication right at the beginning of the book. Funnily enough there's also a lot of sayings/concepts that Nicolette has that i do too. I felt seen. :)
Pinning h is not my cup of tea however i did like how this all played out. I must say i was reaching my limit with the pinning cause at some point the h must have enough of rejection after rejection so i was on the cusp but then finally things started to happen. Again not my kind of trope but this worked for me because of their relation to one another , their 17 age gap and their story. It made sense both of them not giving it all up in the beginning.
I was very much intrigued with all things Raph in Sinful Vows. The circumstances were weird and a bit out there but now that i read this book the circumstances were not weird but crazy. I was riveted by all the secrets coming out and excited to finally know what happened.
I very much loved Ralph. He had a sweet and caring personality while also being capable of going crazy for the people he loved. Raph knew that at the time he met Nicolette it was wrong to even think salacious thoughts so he didn't. He really was a great guy then and continued to be throughout the book.
He was frustrating at times but that was only what it was. I was still very much engaged with this book and i wanted to know all the things and basically do a happy dance when they did the deed. :)
All the sexual tension was starting to give me lady blue balls! Happy i got my fill.
Nicolette was young when she crushed hard on Raph. He was the only one in her life that dared to care for her and show a glimpse of decency towards her so how could she not fall in love? Plus he did all the important things for her even when he was Nicolette sister's boyfriend.
In the great scheme of things i really liked her and how she approached things. Obviously some pining for her part seemed like too much for me but what made it work was that Raph was also secretly (he thought) pinning for her too even when he rejected her at the same time.
I really enjoyed this but i really can't wait for Gio's book.
CW: evil bitch of a sister! Horrible parents overall.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/6.
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5.
The narration was great. Troy as Raphael is delightful. I loved this one but Sinful Vows are still my fave so far.
The twists in this kept twisting. Loved that.
Sophie as always is a highlight for me.
I can’t wait for the next audiobook!
—
* I read an arc of this book*.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/6.
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5.
First of all i loved the dedication right at the beginning of the book. Funnily enough there's also a lot of sayings/concepts that Nicolette has that i do too. I felt seen. :)
Pinning h is not my cup of tea however i did like how this all played out. I must say i was reaching my limit with the pinning cause at some point the h must have enough of rejection after rejection so i was on the cusp but then finally things started to happen. Again not my kind of trope but this worked for me because of their relation to one another , their 17 age gap and their story. It made sense both of them not giving it all up in the beginning.
I was very much intrigued with all things Raph in Sinful Vows. The circumstances were weird and a bit out there but now that i read this book the circumstances were not weird but crazy. I was riveted by all the secrets coming out and excited to finally know what happened.
I very much loved Ralph. He had a sweet and caring personality while also being capable of going crazy for the people he loved. Raph knew that at the time he met Nicolette it was wrong to even think salacious thoughts so he didn't. He really was a great guy then and continued to be throughout the book.
He was frustrating at times but that was only what it was. I was still very much engaged with this book and i wanted to know all the things and basically do a happy dance when they did the deed. :)
All the sexual tension was starting to give me lady blue balls! Happy i got my fill.
Nicolette was young when she crushed hard on Raph. He was the only one in her life that dared to care for her and show a glimpse of decency towards her so how could she not fall in love? Plus he did all the important things for her even when he was Nicolette sister's boyfriend.
In the great scheme of things i really liked her and how she approached things. Obviously some pining for her part seemed like too much for me but what made it work was that Raph was also secretly (he thought) pinning for her too even when he rejected her at the same time.
I really enjoyed this but i really can't wait for Gio's book.
CW: evil bitch of a sister! Horrible parents overall.
its_aislinn's review
4.0
“Cruel Lies” is the delicious second book in the Messina mafia series! While it contains the same characters you met on book one, “Cruel Lies” can be read as a standalone novel.
For the sake of my review, let’s assume that you did read book one. “Cruel Lies” doesn’t pick up at the ending of the first book, and instead you spend about 45% of the book going over the events from Raph’s POV. He and Nicolette connect quickly on in the first book, and it was enjoyable watching them suffer in silence around each other.
Important to note is Raph’s relation to Nicolette. Raph married Nicolette’s sister, Bianca, and despite this, Nicolette has been infatuated with Raph. With her sister dead, Nicolette wants to be with Raph, yet he struggles with what he wants. He feels strongly for Nicolette himself, but internally he sees himself like his father for having feelings for a much younger woman. Naturally, with one cabin and one bed, Raph and Nicolette butt heads more often than not, all the while growing more obsessed with each other.
The turning point in the story was predictable yet I found myself completely caught off guard by the plot twist. Truthfully, I did skim a lot of the dialogue post-twist, because it got to be repetitive and I knew that to have a HEA that things would be changing again.
Tropes in this book are: forced proximity, one bed, age gap, late sisters husband
This series has been so fun to read and I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in reading mafia romance!
For the sake of my review, let’s assume that you did read book one. “Cruel Lies” doesn’t pick up at the ending of the first book, and instead you spend about 45% of the book going over the events from Raph’s POV. He and Nicolette connect quickly on in the first book, and it was enjoyable watching them suffer in silence around each other.
Important to note is Raph’s relation to Nicolette. Raph married Nicolette’s sister, Bianca, and despite this, Nicolette has been infatuated with Raph. With her sister dead, Nicolette wants to be with Raph, yet he struggles with what he wants. He feels strongly for Nicolette himself, but internally he sees himself like his father for having feelings for a much younger woman. Naturally, with one cabin and one bed, Raph and Nicolette butt heads more often than not, all the while growing more obsessed with each other.
The turning point in the story was predictable yet I found myself completely caught off guard by the plot twist. Truthfully, I did skim a lot of the dialogue post-twist, because it got to be repetitive and I knew that to have a HEA that things would be changing again.
Tropes in this book are: forced proximity, one bed, age gap, late sisters husband
This series has been so fun to read and I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in reading mafia romance!
what_karla_reads's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
OMG, the narrators did soooo well with this book. I really love this series, so I was super excited to get them on audio. This was my first time hearing Troy Duran and Brooke Daniels narrating but it won't be my last time.
Raph & Nicolette were always meant to be. Hearing their story come alive was a treat and added that extra bit of angst that Lilian Harri always gives us in her stories.
If you're a dark romance reader who enjoys the spice & a great plot, you HAVE to check out the Messina Crime Family series. The first 3 books are available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited.
Thank you to the author for giving me an ALC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
(ORIGINAL BOOK REVIEW)
5/5 stars
4/5 spice
Good Lord, the tension and angst in this book could set you on fire, it was so hot.
Tropes:
Forbidden romance
Secret pining
Age gap (17 years)
Forced proximity
Mafia romance
Virgin FMC
Widower MMC
Dual POV
"I loved him in silence then, and I continue to love him in silence now. Love doesn’t simply cease to exist just because we want it to."
Raph and Nicolette are my new favorite book couple. The angst and pining these two had for each other was so heart breaking to watch. I was right there with Nicolette wondering if it was all real when they finally gave in to their attraction.
The plot was slow in this one compared to everything that happened in the first book. But once it hit the plot twist it was an avalanche of "OMG moments" and things unraveled quickly. I actually loved how the majority of the book centered around the growing relationship with Raph and Nicolette. You got to see how much they meant to each other from the very beginning, and neither one of them knew... uuuugh the pining.
Overall, this was a sexy, romantic, love story that was full of emotions and twists. I highly recommend for fans of forbidden romance and age gap.
I received an ARC by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own and offered freely.
Trigger/Content warnings:
Violence, murder, blood, fighting, emotional abuse, manipulation, gaslighting, bullying, mentions infertility, cheating, adultery, death, graphic sexual content, explicit language
Raph & Nicolette were always meant to be. Hearing their story come alive was a treat and added that extra bit of angst that Lilian Harri always gives us in her stories.
If you're a dark romance reader who enjoys the spice & a great plot, you HAVE to check out the Messina Crime Family series. The first 3 books are available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited.
Thank you to the author for giving me an ALC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
(ORIGINAL BOOK REVIEW)
5/5 stars
4/5 spice
Good Lord, the tension and angst in this book could set you on fire, it was so hot.
Tropes:
Forbidden romance
Secret pining
Age gap (17 years)
Forced proximity
Mafia romance
Virgin FMC
Widower MMC
Dual POV
"I loved him in silence then, and I continue to love him in silence now. Love doesn’t simply cease to exist just because we want it to."
Raph and Nicolette are my new favorite book couple. The angst and pining these two had for each other was so heart breaking to watch. I was right there with Nicolette wondering if it was all real when they finally gave in to their attraction.
The plot was slow in this one compared to everything that happened in the first book. But once it hit the plot twist it was an avalanche of "OMG moments" and things unraveled quickly. I actually loved how the majority of the book centered around the growing relationship with Raph and Nicolette. You got to see how much they meant to each other from the very beginning, and neither one of them knew... uuuugh the pining.
Overall, this was a sexy, romantic, love story that was full of emotions and twists. I highly recommend for fans of forbidden romance and age gap.
I received an ARC by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own and offered freely.
Trigger/Content warnings:
Violence, murder, blood, fighting, emotional abuse, manipulation, gaslighting, bullying, mentions infertility, cheating, adultery, death, graphic sexual content, explicit language
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Death, Murder, Infidelity, Emotional abuse, Cursing, Violence, Sexual content, Confinement, and Gaslighting
jsromancebookblog's review
5.0
Angst ridden, filled with danger and drama, and seriously steamy, Cruel Lies is just what I’d hoped we’d get with Raph and Nicolette’s book. When their story begins, Nicolette’s on the run and Raph is hiding out following the death of her sister/his wife. After she’s found following an incident where she’s almost taken out, she finds herself under Raph’s protection, and the pair are stuck sharing a tiny cabin in the woods. Not only are there threats constantly lurking, but these two share a mutual attraction that’s firmly in the forbidden zone. She’s 17 years younger than he is and also his dead wife’s little sister, which complicates things even further. However, Raph’s marriage wasn’t a happy one, and his and Nicolette’s connection has always been strong. Will these two be able to escape the peril they’re facing and find their happily ever after, or will those conspiring against them and all the reasons they shouldn’t be together keep them apart?
I’m absolutely in love with this story! It’s got all the tension and excitement of mafia romances that I want, but then there’s so much spice and even some sweet moments peppered in, too. The angst is off the charts good, and it’s that struggle simmering beneath the surface that helps to propel their relationship. Add in the plot twists and suspense, and you’re not going to want to put this book down.
And Raph and Nicolette? They’re instantly likable, and despite their age difference and everything else that’s opposing them, they just make so much sense together. Both come from families that were difficult to put it mildly, and the idea that they essentially could be each other’s salvation and happiness is palpable. Theirs is a passionate and possessive love that makes the chemistry and attraction intense, and I couldn’t get enough of it.
Raph and Nicolette’s story is a must read, and I think you’ll totally fall in love with their love the way I did. Cruel Lies is intensely emotional and brimming with drama, and you are not going to want to miss it.
I’m absolutely in love with this story! It’s got all the tension and excitement of mafia romances that I want, but then there’s so much spice and even some sweet moments peppered in, too. The angst is off the charts good, and it’s that struggle simmering beneath the surface that helps to propel their relationship. Add in the plot twists and suspense, and you’re not going to want to put this book down.
And Raph and Nicolette? They’re instantly likable, and despite their age difference and everything else that’s opposing them, they just make so much sense together. Both come from families that were difficult to put it mildly, and the idea that they essentially could be each other’s salvation and happiness is palpable. Theirs is a passionate and possessive love that makes the chemistry and attraction intense, and I couldn’t get enough of it.
Raph and Nicolette’s story is a must read, and I think you’ll totally fall in love with their love the way I did. Cruel Lies is intensely emotional and brimming with drama, and you are not going to want to miss it.