You probably know from my previous posts that I really enjoy Nicola’s books, and she’s won me over to reading romance books, but this time she shifts seamlessly into Paranormal Romance. Let’s start off with what you really want to know; did I like it?
Well, I read the book in three sittings over two days, turned up late at the pub because I was engrossed, and forgot to listen to the beginning of the City match on the radio as I was in the zone. So yes, I think it’s fair to say I enjoyed it.
I won’t give any plot spoilers beyond the fact we’re talking demons, angels, humans, and forbidden love, and the world-building around this is great. It is more praise than criticism that I wanted to know more about some aspects and wished they’d been explained in more detail, because the premise and realms (planes) were a perfect setting, and my OCD self wanted to know more of the mechanics, which of course isn’t what the story is about. In some ways it’s a very traditional romance story, and as I’m a cynical bugger I find aspects of that always risk losing my suspension of disbelief. Amber, at 25 years old for example, is not only a virgin, but has never been touched by a man, or by herself, and never even been kissed. Fortunately for the men of the book, it seems she’s a very quick learner. It’s a testament to the skill of the author that the characters draw you into their stories, interwoven in a beautiful way. Amber’s personality and empathy with those in her care is quite heart-breaking at times, and her life outside of the love-interests would be perfect for a version of story without the supernatural too, it is totally believable and engaging. The book also contains lots of nookie too, for those wondering. And I have a suspicion she may have been listening to Visage at one point when she was writing it. Or maybe that’s just me. You’ll have to read it for yourself to see if you agree with me.
There are a couple of idiosyncratic uses of terminology that distracted me a few times, and a couple of words I had to look up (and I’m a self-professed clever bugger) which seemed unnecessary, but there’s nothing wrong with learning new words! These very minor niggles aside, Liar is a rollicking good story, which will keep you engrossed, and leave you, like me, wanting the promised for sequel. Lovers of romance will find this book recommended for them anyway, but what I’d suggest is, like The Missed Kiss and To Kiss You Again, that Liar will appeal to non-genre readers just as much, and is well worth investing your time in.
Oh, and I’ll never think about the word Strawberries in the same way again
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens in return for an unbiased review.
From the pitch
Amber Carmichael splits her time between her nursing career and community spirited acts of kindness. This life fulfils her; she has no interest in nightclubs or the men her friends tirelessly chase. The spark of attraction has never lit within her and of this, Amber is glad.
Until one day her dreams begin to shift; something deep in her subconscious begs to awaken.
This stirring within her attracts the attention of an enemy. An enemy she doesn’t know exists; a threat she can’t possibly hide from.
Because how do you hide from the one soul in the world who truly sees you?
A heart has to fall before it can soar.
Available at https://www.amazon.co.uk/Liar-Nicola-Lowe-ebook/dp/B09RQRGH55/
Stay Safe
Kit