| Title | : | When We Lied (Fairview Hockey, #2) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 9798990455 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9789798990458 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | ebook |
| Number of Pages | : | 432 |
| Publication | : | First published May 2, 2024 |
Finneas Alexander Barlow is a walking thirst trap. Tall, hot, and broody. Tousled brown hair, chiseled jaw, alluring green eyes, perfect teeth, well-groomed beard, broad shoulders, and lips good enough to bite. He’d look like a Disney prince if the prince was a broody ahole.
Four years ago, a fated meeting led to an inevitable hook-up. Just one. It’s his rule. One-time hook-ups, no information exchanges, and no repeats. I knew that even before he established his boundaries, and he kept his promise. I hadn’t seen or heard from him since.
A year ago, when tragedy struck, he came back to town and sought me out. Gone was the disarming grin and the innuendos he’d once used to make my knees go weak. Unfortunately, his ire was equally debilitating. Now he’s back as the face of Fairview’s brand new professional hockey team and he’s looking for answers I don’t have. Finn won’t accept that, though. He’s as determined to uncover my secrets as I am to keep them. He pushes as hard as I pull. It’s only a matter of time before the rope snaps. Now I can only hope I'm the one left standing.
When We Lied (Fairview Hockey, #2) Reviews
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★ 3.5 stars
"You own me. My love for you is a living thing inside me. You're everywhere all the time — on my mind, in my blood, in my bones. I don't think we can get much closer than that."
When We Lied is a hockey romance with a suspense twist. The story follows Finneas Barlow — a notorious womaniser and pro hockey player and Josslyn Santos — a basketball star and popular influencer. Four years ago, their paths crossed on one fateful night they shared together on a strictly no strings basis. Fast forward to now, Finn is back in town and Josslyn is forced to confront their chemistry and what has happened in their lives in the last four years.
— There's a thriller/crime element, following an event that occurs four years in the past. The mystery surrounding that night is examined throughout the book and allows to reader to slowly uncover what happened through the flashback scenes. I didn't see the twist coming at all which is always a bonus considering this is predominantly a contemporary romance.
— The spice is STEAMY y'all and there's plenty of it (I mean there's a sex-club scene 6% in) 😮💨 I was unsure about Finn as he's quite arrogant at the start of the book but this quickly changed as I got to know him more and he saw he would do anything for Josslyn (including stalk her). He was possessive, dominant and OBSESSED. He bought her sunflowers and said they reminded him of her because they're bright and always face the sun like her 🥺"So you thought I looked hot?" "Obviously, but it was more than that. It was your mannerisms, your smile, that fucking laugh that lights me up inside, the way you looked at people when you spoke to them, like they mattered. I wanted you to look at me like that."
— Josslyn is a likeable FMC, the influencer element didn't deter me as she's a down to earth character. I felt like the book had a bigger focus on her, which was enjoyable. She's confident, assertive and breaks to the will of no one... except Finn. She played a large role in the mystery element and it was interesting watching this unfold over the dual pov's and timelines."Can you guys let me fucking talk." "Don't worry about them, sweetheart. I'm listening."
— The dialogue felt repetitive at times but the engaging plot kept my interest. The book was covering quite a few concepts at once. For a hockey romance, I was expecting more hockey, there's probably 2-3 scenes max. This was mainly towards the end so at points I forgot what Finn did for a living. There was a couple other minor things I didn't like that kept this from being 4 stars for me but I won't go into them so I don't spoil anything.
Overall, this was a good book. This was my first book of Claire Contreras and won't be my last! I believe this is interconnected with Until I Get You but can be read as a standalone.
Thank you Valentine PR and Claire Contreras for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
⎯⎯ ୨ Pre-review: ୧ ⎯⎯
I'm collecting hockey romances like Pokemon cards at this point 🤝 -
Dnf @ 58%
I give up. I couldn't go through with this anymore. Look, I love UIGY, but this? This is an atrocity.
You have a manwhore wishy-washy manchild who is apparently obsessed with the pathetic heroine. But is always pulling away because he can't, for the life of him, understand his emotions.
Then you have a horny, pathetic heroine who can't say no to the MMC despite him being an asshole towards her. This woman, up until this point, was being led by her hormones and always up to get frisky with him. I don't think she knows the meaning of self-respect or self-preservation. 🤦♀️
There's no chemistry AT ALL! I waited and waited and waited, hoping that along the way that spark would show, but nope, none of that appeared. They were bland together; I think all they ever had was based on physical aspects. Emotional connection? Nonexistent.
So yeah, I'm going to stop while I can. I couldn't shift from annoyed to furious, and vice versa, all throughout reading this. Because these are the only emotions I've felt since I started this book.
I hope this works for other readers. It's just not for me. -
MY REVIEW AND OTHERS can also be found on my blog:
╰┈➤KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
'𝑊H𝐸N W𝐸 𝐿I𝐸D' Is a full length sports romance book by author Claire Contreras. Spoken in 'dual perspectives.' Finneas & Josslyn
I was so excited to jump into this as soon as it landed on my iPad I did just that..
BEFORE: MR tall hot & broody, by all accounts was a womaniser, a walking red flag, he never went back twice, never did relationships, and never fell in love.
Until her..
📚 "𝘐 𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘯 𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘰𝘶𝘵, 𝘪𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳." 📚
NOW: He fell hard and fast. This tough guy became obsessed, stalked her social media, and even had to go head to head with a toddler who had claimed her as his way before Finn came into the picture.
He wanted to get to the bottom of what occurred the night a fire broke out in a club, which he felt deep down was foul play, and he thought that path led right to her. She had the answers to the questions he sought. Many lives were impacted by this tragedy..
Slow paced until you reach a few chapters from the end and then your hit with a few twists and turns which come at you full force and I was here for them.
I loved these two together, even though they weren't written in the stars, they just suited to a T.
She always saw the good
He gravitated towards her light
Together they were perfection. * Teaser used is off the authors facebook page *
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"I knew is anyone had the power to turn me inside out, it would be her."
Finneas Barlow is a womanizer.
In every sense of the word.
There is no one has had more than a one night stand with.
No one he wanted that much.
Until her.
Until she flips his whole world upside down.
Josslyn Santos.
But what happens when Josslyn is involved in much more than he thought?
And will he be able to uncover more than just her secrets?
"Everyone wears a mask, but none wear it quite as well as Josslyn Santos."
Josslyn Santos.
College Basketball Star. Influencer.
And Finneas Barlow's new obsession.
Four years ago, divine intervention struck as they say.
One night for Finneas and Josslyn.
But that was four years ago.
So much has happened since then.
So why is Finneas back in her life?
And why can't he stop looking at Josslyn?
"I've wanted men before, but I've never wanted anyone as much as I want him."
I received an advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.
"That's what emotions are in our world. Reckless."
💫 4.75 Stars 💫
Ok if you have not read anything by Claire Contreras this is definitely your sign to start right the F now!!
She has a way of pulling you in with the mystery and the characters and the plotline in such a unique and addicting way!
I loved "Until I Get You" so I just knew I had to read this and it did not disappoint one bit!
The mystery happening in the book, the tension between Finn and Josslyn, the chemistry, the romance, THE SPICE - LOVE LOVE LOVE!!
THE SPICE WAS TOP TIER!! 🔥🔥🔥
Thank you Claire Contreras for blessing us with this absolute gem!!
"Sweet, perfect little Josslyn. Do you even know what you're begging for?"
"Fuck. I want to fucking ruin you."
We have Josslyn Santos - the absolute badass basketball player that she is.
She is our FMC that is involved in this mysterious tragedy that happened. As we go through this book we get more and more pieces to put together with Josslyn and with Finn and I absolutely love that! It satisfies my curiosity brain so much!
And we also have Finneas Barlow who I imagine would be a character in Gossip Girl in high school (and if you know me you know that is the biggest fucking compliment). He thinks Josslyn is involved so he has to uncover all her secrets. ALL OF THEM. But let's just say he gets more than he bargained for.
Claire Contreras brings us into this relationship between this womanizer and the girl he did not see coming and it is so amazing to read. She combines mystery with romance and ELITE SPICE like it is nobody's business and I am eating it all up and asking for more I swear!!
"It's hard not to feel special when she looks at me like that."
Let me be real with y'all - when I started this playlist I had no idea how to even begin. I wasn't getting anything - I was so invested in the story so many songs jump out and none of them fit just right for me. So I had to tell myself to literally shut the voices up in my head because the playlist is what I FEEL IT IS! (This is the most cliché thing I have ever written but you get the point). So this playlist has become very special to me - it might seem random to some but to me if fits the book just right 💙💙
(Link -
https://spotify.link/Tv7hAw5A8Ib )
🎵 "If I Had You" - Adam Lambert
🎵 "Looking At Me" - Sabrina Carpenter
🎵 "Womanizer" - Meric Again, BRAN, Besomage, HALUNA
🎵 "I Was Made For Lovin' You" - YUNGBLUD
🎵 "Eat Your Young" - Hozier
🎵 "Espresso" - Sabrina Carpenter
🎵 "doomsday" - Lizzy McAlpine
🎵 "End This (L.O.V.E)" - Hailee Steinfeld
🎵 "If I Don't Laugh, I'll Cry" - Frawley
🎵 "The Way I Are" - Timbaland, Keri Hilson, D.O.E
🎵 "I'm a Sucker for a Liar in a Red Dress" - Adam Jensen
🎵 "Beg" - Aryia
🎵 "Hands To Myself" - Selena Gomez
🎵 "Who Do You Want" - Ex Habit
🎵 "HEARTBEAT" - Isabel LaRosa
🎵 "Alkaline" - Sleep Token
🎵 "butterflies" - GAYLE
🎵 "Can You Feel My Heart" - Bring Me The Horizon
🎵 "Cologne" - SM6
🎵 "Too Sweet" - Ryan Mitchell
🎵 "Sunflower" - Post Malone, Swae Lee
🎵 "Desire" - MEG MYERS
🎵 "Drive You Insane" - Daniel Di Angelo
🎵 "Seven Nation Army" - Stevie Howie
🎵 "One Of The Girls" - The Weeknd, JENNIE, Lily-Rose Depp
🎵 "Call Out My Name - Live" - The Weeknd
🎵 "Le Monde" - Richard Carter
🎵 "I Wanna Be Yours" - Arctic Monkeys
🎵 "Addicted" - Saving Abel
🎵 "Fake Fiction" - Picturesque
🎵 "Positions" - Rain Paris
🎵 "Ride For Me" - Daniel Di Angelo
🎵 "greedy" - Tate McRae
🎵 "Animals" - Ice Nine Kills
🎵 "One More Night" - Boyce Avenue
🎵 "…Fuck" - Johnny Rain
🎵 "eyes don't lie" - Isabel LaRosa
🎵 "ALWAYS BEEN YOU" - Chris Grey
🎵 "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" - Sleeping At Last
🎵 "She Looks So Perfect" - 5 Seconds of Summer
🎵 "Honest" - Song House, Kyndal Inskeep
🎵 "obsessed" - zandros, Limi
🎵 "Say Less" - Five AM
🎵 "Architect" - Livingston
🎵 "Sweet Dreams" - Besomorph, Bolshiee
🎵 "Francesca" - Hozier
🎵 "Sledgehammer" - Fifth Harmony
🎵 "Do It For Me" - Rosenfeld
🎵 "run for the hills" - Tate McRae
🎵 "goosebumps" - Travis Scott
🎵 "One in a Million" - Bebe Rexha, David Guetta
🎵 "Dancing With Out Hands Tied" - Taylor Swift
🎵 "Nothin' on You" - B.o.B., Bruno Mars
🎵 "Memories" - Conan Gray
🎵 "I Want You to Want Me" - Chase Holfelder
🎵 "I'm yours" - Isabel LaRosa
🎵 "Dirty Little Secret" - The All-American Rejects
🎵 "Lipstick" - Charlie Puth
🎵 "HONEY (ARE U COMING?)" - Maneskin
🎵 "Dazed & Confused" - Ruel
🎵 "Empty Space" - James Arthur
🎵 "Medicine" - EQRIC, Finnet, Sarah de Warren
🎵 "Hypnotic" - Zella Day
🎵 "Sand" - Dove Cameron
🎵 "To All the Boys I've Loved Before" - Jax
🎵 "Once In A Lifetime" - All Time Low
🎵 "Half Life" - Livingston
🎵 "Don't You Know" - Jaymes Young
🎵 "Power Over Me - Acoustic" - Dermot Kennedy
🎵 "Crazy In Love" - Eden Project
🎵 "One Life" - Dermot Kennedy
Oh and remember when I said the spice was top tier…
"Breathe through your nose. Just like that. Fuck yes. You take me so well, baby. So fucking perfect for me."
"I want you on your knees… Crawl to me… Turn around, Josslyn. Now…. Put your hands on the glass."
"That's it, baby. Come for me again. Just like that. Fuck yes."
Oh and so much more 😏😏😏
🏒 Tropes 🏒
🏀 Sports Romance (Hockey/Basketball)
🏀 Mystery
🏀 Found Family
🏀 Obsessed MMC
🏀 Touch Her and Die
Book Edit -
https://www.instagram.com/p/C6RJfwoIG... -
HAPPY RELEASE DAY!!!!
THIS BOOK. HOLY HELL.
I wasn't sure what to expect going into this book because this is a new author for me. But damn did she quickly become an auto read/buy.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ FIVE hot as hell stars.
Finn gives major Alex Volkov vibes. He hates everyone. He's a one and done kind of "dater". But of course not with the "one that tamed him". VERY "touch her and die" and we love it.
He falls first and hard. He's obsessive and he stalks her for over a year. He moves into the same building as hers because "his house was being cleaned 🥸".
This man has one of the filthiest mouths and I was here for every single second of this.
Finneas Barlow easily became one of my top book boyfriends.
Though this is interconnected it can be read as a standalone! I HIGHLY recommend.
I received this as an arc from Valentine PR for this honest review. -
4,5.
What a beautiful story!
The strong bond between the characters are so powerful that I feel hopeless about this book.
It’s worth reading. -
I have been highly anticipating this book since Claire started writing it on Vella. And it did not disappoint. I am absolutely blown away with this book. I didn’t think anyone could beat Lachlan Duke, I mean Until I Get You is one of my top reads ever…but Claire really said “hold my beer”
I will keep this short, as I think everyone should go into this one a little blind. When We Lied is a mix of romance with darker themes and a whole lot of mystery and of course is full of angst and spice.
I was so captivated by this one right from the start. I don’t think I got up much like at all.I was literally at the edge of my seat the last 30% as everything kept unravelling. At one point I screamed and woke up Rob. He was not that impressed me with LOL.
Finn is the epitome of boy obsessed. LACHLAN WHO?!?!? When Finn finally got his head out of his ass he was seriously the sweetest and had me giggling and kicking my feet during his POV.
Their chemistry was so HOTTTT…the slow-burn, push and pull relationship of Josslyn and Finn’s was full yearning and a soul-deep connection that couldn’t not be denied…plus I always love an obsessed and possessive MMC.
Not gonna lie…seeing Lachlan and Lyla…had me smiling so big. I love them so much and glad they were in this story.
Thank you Claire for sending me an eARC. I cannot wait to see what you come out with next.
Please check TW before going into this one.
Overall: 5
Spice: 2.5
Tropes:
- Hockey Romance
- Basketball Player FMC
- Boy Obsessed
- Possessive MMC
- Touch Her and Die
- Romantic Suspense
- Found Family
- No 3rd Act Break-up -
okay slay give us absolutely nothing
-
My
love for you is a living thing inside me. You’re everywhere all the time—on my mind, in my blood, in my bones. I don’t think we can get much closer
than that.” -
Everyone knows I always love a broody hockey player romance with a little bit of suspense, but audio took When We Lied to the next level for me. Finn and Joss are absolute fire and tension together and the voice actors (Stephen Dexter; Janine Granda) truly brought them to life. From the emotional parts to the steamy parts, they absolutely NAILED these characters with their acting. The audiobook is available now and I highly, highly recommend it. It made me swoon, it made me giggle, and it had me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out WHAT happened. So so good.
If you love heroes who are a little extra obsessed with the heroine, then you will love this steamy and suspenseful romance read!
AVAILABLE NOW!
*ALC -
When We Lied by Claire Contreras
4/5 stars
When We Lied is the first novel I ever read by Claire Contreras. And I enjoyed it so much.
The book starts with Josslyn entering a sex club. Together with her friends. One of them is Mallory. Josslyn takes her boyfriend Tate with her. And he quickly suggests they can do everything besides the actual deed with other people. When she spots Tate half undressed while later she enters a room of her room. And comes face to face with Finneas. And they connect and have a sizzling time together.
Then there is a four year time skip and everything has changed. Mallory, who is Finneas sister, burned to death that night and things are so unclear to what actually happened. The official report is that it was an accident and maybe even suicide. But both Finn and Josslyn believe otherwise.
And both, on their own, are trying to figure out the truth.
Until they meet again. And that fire burns even hotter between them. They are drawn to each other like flies to a flame and share some amazingly hot moments together.
But can they trust each other? And what is going on? Who killed Malloroy and who is or isn't involved?
I loved the complexity of certains relationships in this novel. The relationship between Finn and his parents. Finding out what Mallory's actions truly represent.
But I also adore the truth and trust between Finn and Josslyn.
Sometimes the love scenes felt a little rushed. And that was a shame. I wish those were deepened out a bit more. Some scenes were wonderful. And others felt like they got cut off on weird moments. And that made it sometimes feel a bit unfinished.
But overall this was a gorgeous, solid and beautiful book. With great suspense and a great love story.
4 bright stars for Finneas and Josslyn!
Valentine PR, thank you so much for sending me a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. The following opinions are my own, and no one forced me to write it. -
Spoiler Free Review ⭐️
I’m putting this at 4 stars while I collect my thoughts.
Ok this wasn’t dark romance (which the author stated that it wasn’t) but this wasn’t a fluffy hockey romance either.
I liked the college basketball x NHL, both athletes vibe.
Definitely grumpy x sunshine vibes
Josslyn and Finn were solid characters
Touch her and ☠️ vibes
Obsessed MMC
The big thing was the plot! I love a book that keeps me on my toes and second guessing the mystery. This book did that. It kept my attention and kept me wanting to turn the page. -
I thought the first one was good . Then one was just as good if not more.
-
not everyone can be Lachlan but Finn is a close 2nd 🤭
“I’m serious, Josslyn. You own me,” I repeat, my voice hoarse. “My love for you is a living thing inside me. You’re everywhere all the time—on my mind, in my blood, in my bones. I don’t think we can get much closer than that.”
🏒 hockey player x basketball player
🏀 suspense
🏒 he falls first & harder
🏀 boy obsessed
🏒 playboy
🏀 ott j/p hero 🥵
🏒 touch her and die
🏀 no third act
i was a little worried going in bc this author is iffy on my safety but this was safe to me and i ended up devouring this in one sitting
Finn and Josslyn met 3/4 years ago at his sister’s birthday party (where they hookup) and he’s wanted her ever since. Finn is a major player and everyone knows it. he is only with a woman one time and never is pictured with anyone who isn’t family. so when he hooks up with Joss 3 years ago and again 1 year ago he’s already breaking his rule but he just can’t help it (although there’s no sex yet so - ??) he is able to keep his distance as he plays professional hockey in Vegas but a new team is built in Fairview and ✨surprise✨ he is one of the players so he moves back to his hometown for good and therefore back into orbit with Josslyn.
during their time apart she has a boyfriend so they were both with others 🤷🏽♀️ once they reconnect there’s no others. he also mentions how he’s not “as bad as everyone makes him seem” and can go weeks/months without sex… some talk about how he will need a “palate cleanser” to get her out of his head. he makes plans to go to his sex club but never goes through with it.
THE SUSPENSE/MYSTERY PLOT 🤯🤯🤯 Finn’s sister died in a fire a year ago but they don’t think it was an accident and they’re trying to figure out who she was with, what happened… usually i’m good with picking out the twist but here?? NO WAYYY! she got me. i was genuinely shocked.
Finn is obsessed with Josslyn even before he will admit it to himself 🤭🤭 he has a pi follow her for a year, stalker her social media (she’s also an influencer), moves into her apartment building (bc he’s getting his CLEANED 😂😂).
he may have been a manwhore before her but he is determined to make her see that he wants her and only her and that he can be the man she deserves 🥹🥹 he is NOT a touchy-feely man but affection is her love language so he is constantly touching her in some way 😭 i just loved him. -
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Finn Barlow is a hockey superstar known for his one night only, absolutely no repeats. Josslyn is an internet influencer and college basketball star. Finn and Joss have one hot light together at a sex club, but for years they can’t forget each other. They re-enter each other’s lives when Finn moves back to Fairview for the new pro hockey team, and can’t keep their distance. Throw in a bit of a mystery and sleuthing to find answers they are both desperate to find.
I absolutely loved Finn Barlow. He’s jealous, possessive, and completely obsessed with Josslyn. He’s willing to break all his rules for her. These two are great for each other. I was shocked, mouth hanging open shocked, with the twist near the end. I genuinely was not expecting it. That almost never happens for me so I loved it. I really enjoyed this one. If you’re looking for a dirty talking, red flag hero, give When We Lied a try!
Thank you Claire and Valentine PR for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Bookstagram: @emily_alwaysreading -
5 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)
Josslyn Santos got a full ride to Fairview for basketball. She’s a popular athlete that also has a huge following on social media. Four years ago she had an encounter with a gorgeous, arrogant professional hockey player. The notorious playboy didn’t do commitments or repeats, so she wasn’t surprised she never heard from him again. Then tragedy strikes and suddenly he’s back in town as their paths cross again. He’s even more intense and broody, and apparently he’s there to stay since he’s joined Fairview’s new hockey team, the Owls. There’s no denying their attraction is still there, but she’s not sure her heart could survive Finn Barlow.
Finneas Alexander Barlow was the number one pick in the NHL draft and loved his job playing hockey. He was the first male born to a family full of expectations. After a devastating loss he seeks closure to move on. He returns to Fairview looking for answers and can’t stay away from the woman that caught his attention years ago. Joss is easily the most beautiful woman he’s ever laid eyes on. One touch and he felt possessive and wanted more. The only problem is he doesn’t do messy feelings. Will she be the one woman to make him break all his rules?
When We Lied by Claire Contreras is an all new hockey romance set in the same world as Until I Get You. It’s a best friend’s sibling, close proximity, sports romance full of secrets, mystery and sizzling chemistry. I just loved Finn and Joss together and can’t get enough of this world. I need more!!! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D12DZXS8/... -
* Beta Read *
Prepare to PASS TF OUT because Finn is EVERYTHINGGGG!!! -
3.5-4⭐'s
I thought Finn and Joss were really great but I wished there was more drama involved with their getting together. And I would have loved more romance! -
Four years ago one night changed everything. Finn Barlow is known to attract the ladies. Tall, broody and a professional NHL player had one night with a woman who is now his obsession. A year ago tragedy struck and Finn Barlow is back in town and wants answers on what happened that fateful night but I don’t have them. He is making me question everything and I’m determined to prove him wrong.
What a book. First, it starts strong with mysterious events, then during the middle it slows down but that ending brings it back. I didn’t know what to expect. Both these characters have been through a lot. There are a lot of secrets, betrayals and lies. The plot twists I didn’t see coming and guessing who was behind it I was completely wrong. This man Finn is obsessed with the FMC Jocelyn. I felt it was a little much in the middle of the book but with his over protective obsessive behaviour. But I can’t lie Finn Barlow is delicious. I don’t want to say too much it’s best to go in blind but be mindful of content. Also the narrators for the audiobook Janine and Stephen are brilliant recommend.
If you love:
🔹Mysterious Dark Romance
🔹Sports Hockey and Basketball
🔹Mutual Pining
🔹Reformed Playboy
🔹Betrayal and Secrets
🔹Perfect Amount Of Spice
Genre/Type: A Mysterious Dark Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook
Audiobook Length: 13hrs 47mins
Narrators: Stephen Dexter and Janine Granda - Dual
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Series or Stand Alone: Book Two In The Fairview Hockey Series
Tropes or Themes: Sports (Hockey and Basketball), College, Reformed Playboy, Mutual Pining, Found Family, Jealousy, Possessive MMC, MMC Obsessed, Touch Her And Die Vibes, Secrets, Betrayal, Grief, Fainting, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Crawl, Dom and Sub, Sex Club.
Mentions: Suicide, Death Of Parent, Drugged Situation and Sexual Assault.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫 -
Even though I just finished the book - I’m not entirely sure I remember every person named in this book.
There was an absurd amount of names and nicknames to keep track of - completely taking you out of the flow of the book.
Which is fine because once you establish they both are ridiculously good looking and that everyone absolutely swoons in their presence - from toddlers to psychopaths - you’ve pretty much got most of the plot.
Thanks but no thanks Instagram algorithm for teeing this one up for me. I need a palate cleanser ASAP. -
2-stars: Dual POV - Enemies to lovers
I personally did not care for this book. For me, it was incredibly boring 😴 and the characters felt too gimmicky.
She's an "it" girl who likes privacy but records her life on social media...."It's for the sponsorship and brands," she says. Girl, your character could not be less authentic if it was Taco Bell trying to say it serves real Mexican cuisine.🤥🤥🤥
He's an emotionally unavailable player who is broody without any personality. In the beginning, he uses her to irritate a rival and inner monologs about how he's going to hit and quit it over and over for the first portion of this book. Then, seemingly overnight, he's a simp for her, and it wasn't in a swoon worthy way imo. Also, he was a total pig in the beginning, and I never witnessed any consequence or growth. For example, his female friend compliments the FMC by saying basically, " I wish I could wear that dress." And he responded," Maybe you should do more squats." .... the gasp that I gusped! 🫣🍑 Sir, who are you talking to!
"After Josslyn, I know I’ll need a quick palate cleanser to get my shit together." 🤮
Do not get me started on the unsupportive support characters.
Also, sorry, what? The "action" part of the book was so unbelievable - my belief tried to walk that tight-rope but hit net instead. Was just happy when this circus was over.
Again, this is only my opinion; I don't relish leaving a bad review.... I loved Until I Get You ... but this book felt like that book got roofied into a fever dream and then edited by a frat boy with mom issues. I'm glad we got to have some Layla and Lachlan in this book; that was a highlight ... and I also enjoyed his smooshy speeches once his ⚾️⚾️ dropped.
This is a skip from me. If you are looking for a book with a somewhat similar premise (suspense with a broody possessive alpha-hole) that IMO was just a better read, I'd recommend Lord of Ruin by Rina Kent. *check TW* or Pen-pal by G.T Geissinger.
Happy Reading.
***** SPOILERS !!!!! *****
1) What in the pete-moss was that hostage situation? Like ... the police are just there, and then MMC ends up with a gun and runs in to save the day ...
2) I really dislike Finn, like really, really. His pretty sprinkled in sweet speeches didn't make up for it. It's completely painted (for me as a reader) that the only reason he cared about his sister's death was because it made him have to face what a piece of 💩 he is.
3) Ugh, so a woman died in a fire at a sex club, but the police didn't obtain footage from cameras?? How do civilians get that footage, but not police when investigating the possible murder of the daughter of a billionaire who seems to have enough pull to get our FMC into a private hospital wing within an hour. What in the rent-a-cop is going on in this town???#makeitmakesense
4) She goes into a relationship with Tate and 2 days later goes to a sex club with him where he green lights and then proceeds to be with other people, but then she is shocked when he cheats? Also, what was the point of making the point that he was drugged when he kissed Gracie ... it was pointed out that apart from that, he was still cheating on her regularly. WTF do I care if he was roofied for a kiss ... like .... who cares when he was having group sex with the local BDSM community right under her nose. He was a cheater.PERIOD. Who cares about a simple kiss at that point? Ya know? The dude was a douchebag (but to be fair, so was everyone else) -
Finn and Josslyn
This had good parts and long winded boring parts. The beginning was really good and then it skips ahead 3 years and gets boring. A lot of stuff happens off page.
Then we have the whole murder mystery that was just boring… I already had most of that figured out from the get go. The smut was meh… almost a fade to black at times. Finn is a ons only manho hockey player Joss is a social media influencer with a ton of followers… who also plays basketball. They meet at Finns sisters b day party and hook up The next night at a sex club. He’s a one and done type guy. 3 or 4 years later— there’s some wonky time mentions. They are seeing each other again. There’s a douche bag om and a murdered sister and a sex club thing and a hockey thing and a basketball thing and a billionaire trust fund thing and a trillion character things… I’m like wait who is John? If you read it you’ll see. Just too many names and too much stuff going on. Could have been better if it was trimmed down to a sports romance. -
Finneas Alexander Barlow is a walking thirst trap. Tall, hot, and broody. Tousled brown hair, chiseled jaw, alluring green eyes, perfect teeth, well-groomed beard, broad shoulders, and lips good enough to bite. He’d look like a Disney prince if the prince was a broody ahole.
"I knew if anyone had the power to turn me inside out, it would be her."
Finn Barlow is quite the character, evolving from a carefree playboy to someone deeply connected to Josslyn. It's always intriguing when characters undergo significant development throughout a story. Josslyn, the light to Finn's dark, is a strong and compassionate character, which adds depth to the narrative. The double sports dynamic and the suspenseful plot twists surrounding Mallory's death add layers to the story, kept me engaged and on tenterhooks throughout.
It's always exciting to discover an author you haven't read before, to realize they have written quite the masterpiece. Claire's ability to weave together elements of romance, suspense, sports, mystery and strong character development is truly exceptional.
- Sports Romance
- Mystery/Suspense
- Found Family
- Obsessed MMC
- Touch Her and Die vibes
- Dirty talk -
2⭐️
Thanks to Netgalley for this arc.
Im sad to say that this book was a total waste of my time, the only reason I didn’t drop it is cause it’s an arc. From the moment the book started and the insta-lust began, i got annoyed. It’s just not my thing at all. Insta-lust isn’t the worst, but the fact that i felt no connection between the couple made it worse. They went from not knowing each other to “im jealous of every man you know” in 2 seconds, and it was just so random and not believable. I didnt like the MC or MMC, they were both annoying me. The MMC was supposed to be “broody” and “mysterious”, but he just came off as annoying and weird. The MC was spineless. Their chemistry was off and made the book very unlikable. The plot was SO predictable, i mean i guessed it the second it was even brought up. Anyway, this book wasn’t the WORST thing i’ve read, some parts were okay which makes it 2 stars instead of 1. -
When We Lied by @clairecontreras immediately caught my eye when I seen the trope list, i’m a sucker for a hockey player. As soon as it arrived, I dropped everything and dove right in, and let me tell you, this book is on fire! Finn, the ultimate playboy, meets his match in Josslyn, a fierce college basketball star 🏀. I won’t give away too much because you have to experience it firsthand, but it’s a solid FIVE STARS 🤌💋. Get ready to be crawling on your knees 🤪
-
This book wasn’t what I thought BUT I still enjoyed it
Being honest, it was a bit hard to follow at times, I had to flick back to some parts to follow where it was going, but we got there in the end guys!
The smut was 🤌
I recommend reading “until I get you” first, cause I didn’t, and I really should have 🤣
Also what a wild plot, and the plot twist? Wow -
I was OBSESSED with this book from the start! Whenever I wasn’t reading it, I was thinking about it. If I didn’t have any other responsibilities I would’ve finished it within a day.
“I’m serious, Josslyn. You own me. My love for you is a living thing inside me. You’re everywhere all the time - on my mind, in my blood, in my bones. I don’t think we can get much closer than that.”
This sports romance (both MMC-hockey & FMC-basketball) had everything in it. Action, some banter, drama, heartwarming moments, and the spice 🔥🔥🔥
If you like:
•Possessive Alpha Males
•grumpy/sunshine
•twists
•man = obsessed
•plot & spice
Then this read is for you!!
Thank you so much to Claire Contreras and Valentine PR for letting me be a part of this ARC team!! -
“𝐈𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐧 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐚 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦, 𝐢𝐭 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮. 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞'𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝𝐧'𝐭 𝐝𝐨 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐭𝐡, 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐲𝐨𝐮, 𝐛𝐲 𝐦𝐲 𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞.”
Finn Barlow, with his looks and hockey fame, ruled Fairview. He could do whatever he wanted, his only rule being one night and done. At least that was what he thought until he met Josslyn at his sister's birthday party. Years later, after Mallory's mysterious death, Finn's determined to uncover the truth, convinced Josslyn knows more than she's saying.
I devoured Until I Get You a few days ago and after absolutely loving it, I couldn't wait to jump into When We Lied, and it delivered! The story hooked me from the start. I especially enjoyed the double sports dynamic, with Finn as a pro hockey player and Josslyn being a college basketball player and influencer.
Finn Barlow has set a new standard because, oh my god, the mouth of this man. I loved his character development from being a playboy to being completely obsessed with Josslyn, and how he knew she was the one right from the start.
I loved Josslyn! No matter what life threw at her, she stood strong. I loved how she had such a big heart, always caring for others even when they let her down. It took her a while to trust Finn, but once she did, it was amazing to see them gravitate towards each other.
Right from the start, Finn and Josslyn had a connection that just wouldn't fade, even though they tried hard to ignore it. Watching them avoid their feelings was really something, and when they finally connected, their chemistry was undeniable. The suspense in the story was brilliantly executed too, and I definitely didn't see that twist coming at the end! Packed with revenge, betrayal, and intense chemistry, When We Lied takes you on an emotional rollercoaster and keeps you hooked all the way to the end.
You should mark your calendars for May 2 because this book was incredible, and I'm sure you wouldn't want to miss it!
Thanks to Claire and Valentine PR for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Tropes:
🏒 Hockey Romance
🏒 Boy Obsessed
🏒 Romantic Suspense
🏒 Found Family -
4.25/5 ⭐
Though the background of the book states that it's a sports romance, it isn't exactly a sports romance. The MCs are athletes, no doubt about it but their active games are not shown until much later stage. It's a good suspense though.
Josslyn and Finneas are the two main characters in this book. The book starts with a scene where Finn and Joss meet for the first time and he's mesmerized by her, even though his ego doesn't allow him to accept that he is truly enchanted with her beauty, mannerisms and laughter. He makes the move but Joss knows better to get involved with the NHL Star, except that one night.
The book takes a leap of 4 years when Finn comes back to town to play professional hockey from his home team and also because he's grieving his sister's untimely death and wants to find out the people behind it. He finds Mallory's journal according to which someone named T is very important and could be the one. He puts a trail (PI) on Joss's family also because he doesn't want to leave any stone unturned. He has his reasons as he believes for stalking Josslyn.
Josslyn is equally shattered by Mal's death and she has her reasons to hide a few things, if she could so that the peace is not disturbed. But Finn coming to town doesn't help a bit and their lives get entangled with each other. What was supposed to be a one night thing started turning into something more and they couldn't resist it. They both struggled a lot for a while to acknowledge and accept their feelings as they both were lying about something.
The first half of the book was full of angst, slow burn and intense gazes, hot simmering chemistry. The second half of the book was about peeling off the layers they both hide themselves within.
It was nice to see how the characters shaped/ reshaped themselves into someone they never thought they were capable of being. The suspense was good, it kept me hooked throughout the book. Overall I like the book and I'd say it was better than what I expected.
