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Scarlett Wakefield #2
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De populaire en knappe Dan McAndrew is vermoord. Daar twijfelt Scarlett Wakefield geen seconde meer aan. Scarlett had een oogje op Dan, die op mysterieuze wijze doodging tijdens een feestje, vlak nadat ze elkaar hadden gekust. Scarlett denkt nu de moordenaar op het spoor te zijn. Het belangrijkste bewijsmateriaal blijkt een designertas te zijn. Maar wie is de eigenares van die tas? Is dat Plum, Scarlettts gezworen vijandin? Of Lucy, die meer lijkt te weten over de ware toedracht van Dans plotselinge dood? Gelukkig krijgt Scarlett hulp van haar nieuwe, stoere vriendin Taylor, want het lijkt erop dat Dans moordenaar niet van plan is het bij één moord te laten...
320 pages, Paperback
First published December 27, 2008
31 people are currently reading
1640 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Henderson
68 books401 followersBorn in London in 1966, Lauren Henderson read English at university and then worked as a journalist for - among other publications - the New Statesman, Marxism Today, the Observer and Lime Lizard, a much-mourned indie music magazine. Lauren now divides her time between Italy and London and, when not wine-tasting, writes full-time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
March 22, 2010
I'm reviewing book one (Kiss Me, Kill Me) and two (Kisses and Lies) together. I felt that book one would have been better served, if it had been combined with book two. Kisses and Lies was a million times better than the first, however it suffered the consequences with a lower rating because I was so annoyed from book one.
Kiss Me, Kill Me was full of nonessential-lackadaisical detailing and phrases, I was bored reading it most of the time. I'm really tired of the over done socialite-mean-girl characters and this series was full of them. Plus, the books seemed to be centered around fashion, make-up, and whether or not they looked fat in what they were wearing. I think the wording "I'm fat" was in almost every sentence (only a slight exaggeration).
I wish I hadn't even cracked these books open. Nothing I can do about that now. I guess this makes for a far better review then the usual "I loved it."
The writing was atrocious. It was overly simplified and it lacked variation in adjective usage and expression. I've read children books with better detailing then these books had. I Thesaurus works wonders...
I love YA books, they seem to be the type of books I've been stuck on lately. Some of my favorite series have been YA. I think this series is too YA for my taste. I think a much younger readership may appreciate the wording and phrases more than I have. Nevertheless, I maybe belittling their quality of taste too. Sorry...
Kiss Me, Kill Me was full of nonessential-lackadaisical detailing and phrases, I was bored reading it most of the time. I'm really tired of the over done socialite-mean-girl characters and this series was full of them. Plus, the books seemed to be centered around fashion, make-up, and whether or not they looked fat in what they were wearing. I think the wording "I'm fat" was in almost every sentence (only a slight exaggeration).
I wish I hadn't even cracked these books open. Nothing I can do about that now. I guess this makes for a far better review then the usual "I loved it."
The writing was atrocious. It was overly simplified and it lacked variation in adjective usage and expression. I've read children books with better detailing then these books had. I Thesaurus works wonders...
I love YA books, they seem to be the type of books I've been stuck on lately. Some of my favorite series have been YA. I think this series is too YA for my taste. I think a much younger readership may appreciate the wording and phrases more than I have. Nevertheless, I maybe belittling their quality of taste too. Sorry...
February 16, 2009
A Warning: Don't read this book unless you have read Kiss Me Kill Me, the prequel! You will be very confused!
Kisses and Lies picked right up where Kiss Me Kill Me left off. There is a small recap from the previous book but not enough in my option to skip the first book. Scarlett and Taylor have become great friends and are determined as ever to solve Dan's murder. In my opinion all the really good stuff happens in this book and Kiss Me Kill Me is just the set-up for all of this to happen! A whole family of new characters of introduced, lengthening the suspect list greatly. Some of the situations are humorous while others are deadly serious, but all the while a great time to read! Also, Scarlett and Jase's relationship starts to blossom, not without its problems.
For me the best part of the book is when Scarlett goes to Scotland and meets Dan's family. Man was a group, and what a castle. You don't know who to trust or where you are safe or if Scarlett is going to be stuck going round and round in circles around the castle before finding the stairs! This was my kind of mystery! It did get a bit wonky towards the ending and I have to admit I sort of guessed who the killer was after a bit, but it was still great fun and I never knew what was going to happen next! The ending of this book is much more satisfying than the first book's ending but it definitely sets it up for a third book. Which in my opinion looks like it could be rather good and hopefully involving a love triangle or two!
Kisses and Lies picked right up where Kiss Me Kill Me left off. There is a small recap from the previous book but not enough in my option to skip the first book. Scarlett and Taylor have become great friends and are determined as ever to solve Dan's murder. In my opinion all the really good stuff happens in this book and Kiss Me Kill Me is just the set-up for all of this to happen! A whole family of new characters of introduced, lengthening the suspect list greatly. Some of the situations are humorous while others are deadly serious, but all the while a great time to read! Also, Scarlett and Jase's relationship starts to blossom, not without its problems.
For me the best part of the book is when Scarlett goes to Scotland and meets Dan's family. Man was a group, and what a castle. You don't know who to trust or where you are safe or if Scarlett is going to be stuck going round and round in circles around the castle before finding the stairs! This was my kind of mystery! It did get a bit wonky towards the ending and I have to admit I sort of guessed who the killer was after a bit, but it was still great fun and I never knew what was going to happen next! The ending of this book is much more satisfying than the first book's ending but it definitely sets it up for a third book. Which in my opinion looks like it could be rather good and hopefully involving a love triangle or two!
March 11, 2022
3 Stars...
I must say, this one was better than the first book. The beginning was a bit annoying and dull because it really didn't focus on the mystery just Scarlett and her love life. Honestly, I feel like the whole "romance" thing was mainly used as a filler to make the book longer. Besides that, I did enjoy when the actual mystery took center stage in Scotland. At that point I found myself actually wanting to read more and no longer wanting to throw the book against a wall. I did pretty much figure out from early on who was behind Dan's murder, but that didn't bother me.
The writing this time around read a little bit more mature than the first one. I just think Scarlett's boy craziness is such a distraction and makes her terribly annoying. It's like every single boy she comes into contact with makes her forget about the last one she just (2mins ago) so desperately wanted to kiss (*rolling eyes*)
Anyway, I am glad this turned out to be better than the first book because I really didn't have any high expectations for this one, seeing as though book 1 was so bad. I can't say I connected to any of the characters perse, but again I did enjoy the book once Scarlett was in Scotland.
Content: No sex, some semi-nude photos, kissing...
Language: some scattered here and there, but not much (pg-13)
I must say, this one was better than the first book. The beginning was a bit annoying and dull because it really didn't focus on the mystery just Scarlett and her love life. Honestly, I feel like the whole "romance" thing was mainly used as a filler to make the book longer. Besides that, I did enjoy when the actual mystery took center stage in Scotland. At that point I found myself actually wanting to read more and no longer wanting to throw the book against a wall. I did pretty much figure out from early on who was behind Dan's murder, but that didn't bother me.
The writing this time around read a little bit more mature than the first one. I just think Scarlett's boy craziness is such a distraction and makes her terribly annoying. It's like every single boy she comes into contact with makes her forget about the last one she just (2mins ago) so desperately wanted to kiss (*rolling eyes*)
Anyway, I am glad this turned out to be better than the first book because I really didn't have any high expectations for this one, seeing as though book 1 was so bad. I can't say I connected to any of the characters perse, but again I did enjoy the book once Scarlett was in Scotland.
Content: No sex, some semi-nude photos, kissing...
Language: some scattered here and there, but not much (pg-13)
October 5, 2018
Vraagje: Hoe kan je hier nog twee boeken over schrijven?! Dit onderwerp is afgesloten. Ik hoef niet meer over Dan en Callum McAndrew! Klaar. Over. Finito. Punt.
July 14, 2012
I quite liked the first Scarlett Wakefield book, it was imaginative and the plot twist clever and unexpected. Sadly, book 2 does not even come close. It's lurid, melodramatic, and almost laughably unrealistic. The author seems to have thrown together as many ghastly plot points as possible to give extra shock value.
First off, Dan who was the nice guy in the first book turns out to have a secret collection of Polaroids of naked girls, to provide a possible motive for his murder. Next Scarlett finds herself attracted to Callum, Dan's twin brother, which is rather creepy if you ask me. Yes, I suppose you could say it's an unconscious transference of her feelings for Dan, but it comes across as very forced and contrived. Callum is out-and-out hostile to Scarlett, whom he holds responsible for Dan's death. Who wouldn't fall in love with someone who's yelling at you to get out of his home? Not to mention that Scarlett is also entangled in a relationship with Jase back at Wakefield Hall.
What's next? Scarlett gets shot at by Callum's jealousy-crazed girlfriend because she "didn't like the way Callum was looking at Scarlett". Another twist to compound the mystery. And Moira the housekeeper was up in London at the time of Dan's death, throwing a smidgen of suspicion on her. It gets more complicated but less believable. Then Taylor shows up suddenly, after being left behind in England, to lend a hand to Scarlett very conveniently when Scarlett needs her.
And if that's not enough drama, the twin's older sister Catriona is so determined to inherit the entailed family castle that she plots to kill both her brothers. The author must have watched too many soap operas. It was actually pretty obvious because Cat has been feeding Scarlett a lot of red herrings and is the only one in the family who is not blaming Scarlett for Dan's death. Well that's because she knows the truth, isn't it? Dan's murder was ingeniously camouflaged as an accident thanks to Scarlett. But with Callum's birthday coming up, when he will attain the age of majority, Cat has to move quickly and ends up attempting to force Callum to jump from the tower on the edge of a cliff. Scarlett gets there in time to witness the attempt, and of course jumps in to save Callum. Cat pulls a gun on her and they're both about to die, but there's enough time for them to have a moment of connection and Scarlett to notice how attractive Callum is. When he's hanging off the tower about to fall off the cliff.
Ok, now continue the dying moment. They're both about to die, when... Surprise, surprise! Taylor shows up again and tackles Cat, so the gun goes off and Cat is accidentally shot. How did Taylor even know where they were? Scarlett hadn't even known where Callum was, and had to run all over trying to find him. She didn't get a chance to text Taylor the location of their deadly struggle. Taylor wasn't even living at the castle, she had a long way to travel to get there. The McAndrews family isn't supposed to know that she's there, or even where Scarlett, Cat, and Callum have gone, so there's no way anyone could have given her directions. And if the tower is so hidden and out of the way that Scarlett hadn't known it was there - and she was actually living on the grounds - how did Taylor find it?
This book was a disappointment, and you can be sure I'm not about to read the next two instalments. I've had enough lurid Gothic melodrama with this one book.
First off, Dan who was the nice guy in the first book turns out to have a secret collection of Polaroids of naked girls, to provide a possible motive for his murder. Next Scarlett finds herself attracted to Callum, Dan's twin brother, which is rather creepy if you ask me. Yes, I suppose you could say it's an unconscious transference of her feelings for Dan, but it comes across as very forced and contrived. Callum is out-and-out hostile to Scarlett, whom he holds responsible for Dan's death. Who wouldn't fall in love with someone who's yelling at you to get out of his home? Not to mention that Scarlett is also entangled in a relationship with Jase back at Wakefield Hall.
What's next? Scarlett gets shot at by Callum's jealousy-crazed girlfriend because she "didn't like the way Callum was looking at Scarlett". Another twist to compound the mystery. And Moira the housekeeper was up in London at the time of Dan's death, throwing a smidgen of suspicion on her. It gets more complicated but less believable. Then Taylor shows up suddenly, after being left behind in England, to lend a hand to Scarlett very conveniently when Scarlett needs her.
And if that's not enough drama, the twin's older sister Catriona is so determined to inherit the entailed family castle that she plots to kill both her brothers. The author must have watched too many soap operas. It was actually pretty obvious because Cat has been feeding Scarlett a lot of red herrings and is the only one in the family who is not blaming Scarlett for Dan's death. Well that's because she knows the truth, isn't it? Dan's murder was ingeniously camouflaged as an accident thanks to Scarlett. But with Callum's birthday coming up, when he will attain the age of majority, Cat has to move quickly and ends up attempting to force Callum to jump from the tower on the edge of a cliff. Scarlett gets there in time to witness the attempt, and of course jumps in to save Callum. Cat pulls a gun on her and they're both about to die, but there's enough time for them to have a moment of connection and Scarlett to notice how attractive Callum is. When he's hanging off the tower about to fall off the cliff.
Ok, now continue the dying moment. They're both about to die, when... Surprise, surprise! Taylor shows up again and tackles Cat, so the gun goes off and Cat is accidentally shot. How did Taylor even know where they were? Scarlett hadn't even known where Callum was, and had to run all over trying to find him. She didn't get a chance to text Taylor the location of their deadly struggle. Taylor wasn't even living at the castle, she had a long way to travel to get there. The McAndrews family isn't supposed to know that she's there, or even where Scarlett, Cat, and Callum have gone, so there's no way anyone could have given her directions. And if the tower is so hidden and out of the way that Scarlett hadn't known it was there - and she was actually living on the grounds - how did Taylor find it?
This book was a disappointment, and you can be sure I'm not about to read the next two instalments. I've had enough lurid Gothic melodrama with this one book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 20, 2017
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1.5 Stars
Kisses and Lies starts off exactly where Kiss Me, Kill Me ends. Although I will admit the writing has gotten a bit better, this story still was not able to capture my attention. I still don't car for any of the characters and most of them just make me angry. Thankfully, a lot of the things I found problematic in the first book were toned down in this second book, but there were still instances where I felt uncomfortable. (Here is my review of book one if you are interested: https://www.goodreads.com/review/edit...).
1.5 Stars
Kisses and Lies starts off exactly where Kiss Me, Kill Me ends. Although I will admit the writing has gotten a bit better, this story still was not able to capture my attention. I still don't car for any of the characters and most of them just make me angry. Thankfully, a lot of the things I found problematic in the first book were toned down in this second book, but there were still instances where I felt uncomfortable. (Here is my review of book one if you are interested: https://www.goodreads.com/review/edit...).
Read
March 17, 2012Synopsis: Margret Wakefield was there for Dan's last moments before his death. Not only was she there, she was the last person he kissed. The peanut oil from the puffs she had eaten killed him, and he couldn't find his epi-pen. She was marked as the murderer, and had to trade schools because of all the bullying. She meets a new boy, but is scared to like him. Meanwhile, she needs to solve the mystery of who killed Dan. She decides to go to his house and meet his family to find out more information. As she gets there, things become dangerous, revealing that the killer might even be one of his close family members of friends. Her life may be in Danger too, but she needs to solve this mystery of who killed Dan.
Review: I really liked this book, it was well plotted and really well organized. I would've never expected the ending. It had a lot of twists and turns and left me hanging.
Review: I really liked this book, it was well plotted and really well organized. I would've never expected the ending. It had a lot of twists and turns and left me hanging.
September 13, 2015
W o W.
This book was way better than the first one and I'm so glad I gave the series a chance, to be quite honest. I want the third one now but have zero clue where I could get it without spending money (as right now I have too many big kid things to worry about).
This book solved the mystery surrounding Dan McAndrew and brings Scarlett immense relief, but it also brings another mystery, another problem. As you read on, the writing gets loads better and I found myself growing attached to the characters in the book. The more I read, the more I adore.
I like that the romance grows at a slow pace, the plot develops, and the heroine is a likable girl who isn't going to let anything limit her from doing what she wants.
4.5 stars
This book was way better than the first one and I'm so glad I gave the series a chance, to be quite honest. I want the third one now but have zero clue where I could get it without spending money (as right now I have too many big kid things to worry about).
This book solved the mystery surrounding Dan McAndrew and brings Scarlett immense relief, but it also brings another mystery, another problem. As you read on, the writing gets loads better and I found myself growing attached to the characters in the book. The more I read, the more I adore.
I like that the romance grows at a slow pace, the plot develops, and the heroine is a likable girl who isn't going to let anything limit her from doing what she wants.
4.5 stars
June 11, 2011
Umm this book was kind of ridiculous. I enjoyed the first one and the way it ended really gave me high hopes for this next one but I was disappointed. There just seemed to be a lot of filler in this book and nothing really happened. When everything did come to an intensely dramatic and COMPLETELY UNREALISTIC climax I was left thinking "what the hell?!". I just found the entire Callum/Dan/Catriona situation to be insane, ESPECIALLY with the ending. I feel like Henderson just sort of threw this book together for the sake of writing a sequel. I do think the addition of Plum at Wakefield can make for an interesting third book but we shall see.
August 16, 2016
I recommend this book because it's a mysterious book. There are a lot of hints to solve the mystery which make the book really interesting. I would love to read more book that the author wrote that is really similar to this book .
March 5, 2025
“Kisses and Lies”, second in the Scarlett Wakefield series, sees our heroine continuing to investigate the death of Dan McAndrew.
He dropped dead after she kissed him! As her first kiss it was certainly memorable.
She knows what caused it but the identity of the killer remains a mystery (of many handbags!)
The story is also about personal growth, first love second time around, and friendship.
In the end the mystery is resolved, not through any investigative breakthrough, by something which should have been evident from the start.
In reality the two books are really one which has been split, presumably for increased potential income.
Overall it didn't really work for me.
2.5 Stars, raised to 3 Stars.
He dropped dead after she kissed him! As her first kiss it was certainly memorable.
She knows what caused it but the identity of the killer remains a mystery (of many handbags!)
The story is also about personal growth, first love second time around, and friendship.
In the end the mystery is resolved, not through any investigative breakthrough, by something which should have been evident from the start.
In reality the two books are really one which has been split, presumably for increased potential income.
Overall it didn't really work for me.
2.5 Stars, raised to 3 Stars.
June 7, 2019
I enjoyed the book. It’s like watching (or reading) Veronica Mars.
It’s not the usual YA books I’ve read for the past months. I liked it. It’s Nancy Drew, Hardy Boys in a new generation.
I liked the part where Scarlett went to the castle. The way Mr. McAndrew described it made me in awe. Like I know there are still castles existing but never thought there are still castles where they preserved the original architecture like where the crossbows position themselves, where they pour the hot boiling oil, and the dungeon.
I liked Scarlett and Taylor teaming up. They can actually be a cool detective/investigators in the future. I’d definitely read that if that will happen.
It’s not the usual YA books I’ve read for the past months. I liked it. It’s Nancy Drew, Hardy Boys in a new generation.
I liked the part where Scarlett went to the castle. The way Mr. McAndrew described it made me in awe. Like I know there are still castles existing but never thought there are still castles where they preserved the original architecture like where the crossbows position themselves, where they pour the hot boiling oil, and the dungeon.
I liked Scarlett and Taylor teaming up. They can actually be a cool detective/investigators in the future. I’d definitely read that if that will happen.
May 15, 2022
I thought this book was really good the ending was a very good twist recommended when reading the first book before you start this one but you won’t be that lost if you don’t either way it doesn’t really matter I did wish that the main character kind of gone into more details and some circumstances are more description and the characters would’ve been nice in a second book like I said if you haven’t read the first book but I really like this book I wouldn’t say on which way again I think this is the one done situation but if you want a quick little read and you’ve read the first book I would recommend this book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 5, 2017
nonostante i miei cinquant'anni amo leggere romanzi leggeri e adolescenziali, ma questo non ha nessun sapore. credo che non lo avrei amato nemmeno a tredici anni. bocciato e non terminato. un gliela posso fa'.
May 13, 2018
Good twists to the mystery. Looking forward to book 3.
Want to read
July 19, 2020elibrary
April 16, 2021
There wasn't enough happening for me. It couldn't keep me interested in the story.
June 23, 2021
3.5 ⭐
January 18, 2009
Kisses and Lies was just as good and possibly even better than its predecessor. Also a big recommendation, read the series in order. You don’t always have to do that, but I highly suggest with this series that you do. If you remember my review from Kiss Me Kill Me, you’ll recall that I had a few problems with the plot, but not enough to keep me from liking the novel. This time I had some major issues with the plot, but somehow I still found the book entertaining.
Major issue number one. Yes, Scarlett I know you are a freaggin orphan. You say that is doesn’t bother you, because you barely remember your parents they died when you were so young, yet you won’t stop bitching about it. Another annoying Scarlett habit is her constant questioning of Taylor. Am I depending on Taylor to much... yada, yada, yada... this part seriously annoyed me so much... it’s pissing me off just writing about it. On top of those two less than stellar Scarlett moments, I also found Scarlett doing things that I found very out of character for her, maybe it was just me.
Major issue number two. I understand the need for Scarlett to go to Castle Airlie, which was Dan’s home, so she can solve the big mystery and all, but I hate the way of her invitation. I mean seriously. She writes a letter to Dan’s parents basically inviting herself, because it might help with closure. Oh and that she has something of his that she would like to give back, which is a lie. Let’s examine the relationship between Dan and Scarlett, shall we? That’s right there wasn’t one! It was a one night stand! Not even that, it was more like a ten-second frencher! What could she possibly know about their son, to give them some kind of closure? And why would they invite her to spend the holiday with them....?
Then of course there is a big revelation about Dan, which I have to say I wasn’t really all that surprised. There were some twists that did get me, and I think that is what ultimately made up the novel for me. Apparently there were times where I found the novel to be imperfect, but don’t let that overshadow the fact that I still found the novel to be very alluring. The unique characters and Henderson’s writing, make up for my few annoyances.
There was one more thing I wanted to address that was bothering me, but really has nothing to do with the novel itself, but the character Taylor. I really love her character, she is really unique. But I was appalled to see some of the comments made about her in other reviews. Taylor is not a girly girl, she likes to work out, she has muscles, she’s tough as nails. So obviously that means she is a lesbian. WHAT? Yes, it seems that everyone thinks that Taylor must be a lesbian because she has muscles and doesn’t go around crying when she breaks a nail. Let me just start off by saying that I really don’t care if she does end up being a lesbian, more power to her, but don’t condemn that on her, because of a stereotype. Come on people, I expect more from you.
And now I step down from my soap-box.
Major issue number one. Yes, Scarlett I know you are a freaggin orphan. You say that is doesn’t bother you, because you barely remember your parents they died when you were so young, yet you won’t stop bitching about it. Another annoying Scarlett habit is her constant questioning of Taylor. Am I depending on Taylor to much... yada, yada, yada... this part seriously annoyed me so much... it’s pissing me off just writing about it. On top of those two less than stellar Scarlett moments, I also found Scarlett doing things that I found very out of character for her, maybe it was just me.
Major issue number two. I understand the need for Scarlett to go to Castle Airlie, which was Dan’s home, so she can solve the big mystery and all, but I hate the way of her invitation. I mean seriously. She writes a letter to Dan’s parents basically inviting herself, because it might help with closure. Oh and that she has something of his that she would like to give back, which is a lie. Let’s examine the relationship between Dan and Scarlett, shall we? That’s right there wasn’t one! It was a one night stand! Not even that, it was more like a ten-second frencher! What could she possibly know about their son, to give them some kind of closure? And why would they invite her to spend the holiday with them....?
Then of course there is a big revelation about Dan, which I have to say I wasn’t really all that surprised. There were some twists that did get me, and I think that is what ultimately made up the novel for me. Apparently there were times where I found the novel to be imperfect, but don’t let that overshadow the fact that I still found the novel to be very alluring. The unique characters and Henderson’s writing, make up for my few annoyances.
There was one more thing I wanted to address that was bothering me, but really has nothing to do with the novel itself, but the character Taylor. I really love her character, she is really unique. But I was appalled to see some of the comments made about her in other reviews. Taylor is not a girly girl, she likes to work out, she has muscles, she’s tough as nails. So obviously that means she is a lesbian. WHAT? Yes, it seems that everyone thinks that Taylor must be a lesbian because she has muscles and doesn’t go around crying when she breaks a nail. Let me just start off by saying that I really don’t care if she does end up being a lesbian, more power to her, but don’t condemn that on her, because of a stereotype. Come on people, I expect more from you.
And now I step down from my soap-box.
April 15, 2011
Scarlett is still on the hunt to figure out the mystery of Dan's death. She hasn't been able to let it go since he died in her arms, from a fatal kiss. Luckily Scarlett has a friend and sidekick, Taylor. Scarlett and Taylor Hunt down leads that take them to posh clubs and scary castles. Scarlett still isn't sure who couldv'e have wanted to kill Dan enough to actual do it. Meanwhile, Jase Barnes, the groundskeepers son, is doing quite a fine job of taking Scarlett's mind of Dan, at least for a few moments at a time. Scarlett doesn't want to get too involved until she's solved this mystery, because she knows that it will be on her mind until she can put it to rest. To solve this case though she may have to go somewhere she never thought she would be able to, and she may just have to go it alone...
Oh my goodness do I want to read the next book like right now. This was such a fantastic book. Callum = completely swoonworthy *le sigh*. Anyways. Lauren Henderson once again takes the reader on a trip through the mystery that is Dan's death. Lauren Henderson has spot on pacing so you can savor each page, but can't bear to put it down until you've reached the teeth-grating end. I love how the action is potrayed in this novel, it has almost a scientific feel to it. The action is precise and not at all dramatic like in most novels. Scarlett is a gymnast and uses all the training she's endured to kick some serious butt in a show-offy sort of way. ;) Seriously though she is amazing and I love how realistic the things she does are. I mean, even when she's swinging from tress and bounding through a forest it doesn't surprise you, because she's so nimble and sporty. Jase Barnes is also truly a fantastic love interest, it sucks that Scarlett's mind is so preoccupied with Dan's death, because Jase is completely into her. Scarlett can't seem to stay away from him either though! I just absolutely adored this book, Lauren Henderson is a fantastic writer and these novels real show off her talent. If you still haven't started this series, please, check it out soon!
First Line:
"'Show me something!' Dan says."
Favorite Line:
"'Farting like drains—'"
Oh my goodness do I want to read the next book like right now. This was such a fantastic book. Callum = completely swoonworthy *le sigh*. Anyways. Lauren Henderson once again takes the reader on a trip through the mystery that is Dan's death. Lauren Henderson has spot on pacing so you can savor each page, but can't bear to put it down until you've reached the teeth-grating end. I love how the action is potrayed in this novel, it has almost a scientific feel to it. The action is precise and not at all dramatic like in most novels. Scarlett is a gymnast and uses all the training she's endured to kick some serious butt in a show-offy sort of way. ;) Seriously though she is amazing and I love how realistic the things she does are. I mean, even when she's swinging from tress and bounding through a forest it doesn't surprise you, because she's so nimble and sporty. Jase Barnes is also truly a fantastic love interest, it sucks that Scarlett's mind is so preoccupied with Dan's death, because Jase is completely into her. Scarlett can't seem to stay away from him either though! I just absolutely adored this book, Lauren Henderson is a fantastic writer and these novels real show off her talent. If you still haven't started this series, please, check it out soon!
First Line:
"'Show me something!' Dan says."
Favorite Line:
"'Farting like drains—'"
November 12, 2012
Reviewed by Jaglvr for TeensReadToo.com
Scarlett Wakefield needs to figure out why what happened to Dan McAndrews occurred.
Scarlett has settled into life at Wakefield Hall with her grandmother and Aunt Gwen, but the gnawing need to know just won't leave Scarlett. So with the help of her new friend, Taylor, the two set off to finally discover the truth of who wanted Dan dead.
When Scarlett and Taylor aid Nadia, an old St. Tabby's acquaintance, to get information, the two girls soon realize that they may be looking for the wrong suspect. Originally convinced that her nemesis, Plum, was behind Dan's death, the two girls discover that another girl, Lucy, arrived at the fateful party carting the same limited edition Marc Jacobs handbag.
Convinced that the answers Scarlett requires reside with Dan's family, Scarlett writes a letter to his parents, asking if she can meet with them. Surprised that the invitation comes so quickly, Scarlett heads to Castle Airlie for a long weekend.
While there, Scarlett meets Lucy, Catriona, Callum, and Dan's parents. Scarlett is sure there is a secret hidden at the Castle, but she is running out of time. When Taylor surprises Scarlett by showing up, the two quickly work to solve the mystery of Dan's death.
Unfortunately, I can't give more details than this or I will spoil the surprises and twists that Ms. Henderson has created in KISSES AND LIES. The story is even more suspenseful than its predecessor, KISS ME, KILL ME.
With new characters to create drama and secrets, the reader wants to reach the end to find out all the answers. I couldn't put the book down because I was so pulled into the intrigue that was occurring at Castle Airlie. I will admit that the reader should read KISS ME, KILL ME prior to picking up KISSES AND LIES. There is a lot of background information that is lost without having read the first novel.
And the ending of KISSES AND LIES leaves the reader hoping for yet another book in the series...
Scarlett Wakefield needs to figure out why what happened to Dan McAndrews occurred.
Scarlett has settled into life at Wakefield Hall with her grandmother and Aunt Gwen, but the gnawing need to know just won't leave Scarlett. So with the help of her new friend, Taylor, the two set off to finally discover the truth of who wanted Dan dead.
When Scarlett and Taylor aid Nadia, an old St. Tabby's acquaintance, to get information, the two girls soon realize that they may be looking for the wrong suspect. Originally convinced that her nemesis, Plum, was behind Dan's death, the two girls discover that another girl, Lucy, arrived at the fateful party carting the same limited edition Marc Jacobs handbag.
Convinced that the answers Scarlett requires reside with Dan's family, Scarlett writes a letter to his parents, asking if she can meet with them. Surprised that the invitation comes so quickly, Scarlett heads to Castle Airlie for a long weekend.
While there, Scarlett meets Lucy, Catriona, Callum, and Dan's parents. Scarlett is sure there is a secret hidden at the Castle, but she is running out of time. When Taylor surprises Scarlett by showing up, the two quickly work to solve the mystery of Dan's death.
Unfortunately, I can't give more details than this or I will spoil the surprises and twists that Ms. Henderson has created in KISSES AND LIES. The story is even more suspenseful than its predecessor, KISS ME, KILL ME.
With new characters to create drama and secrets, the reader wants to reach the end to find out all the answers. I couldn't put the book down because I was so pulled into the intrigue that was occurring at Castle Airlie. I will admit that the reader should read KISS ME, KILL ME prior to picking up KISSES AND LIES. There is a lot of background information that is lost without having read the first novel.
And the ending of KISSES AND LIES leaves the reader hoping for yet another book in the series...
March 21, 2010
The sequel to “Kiss Me Kill Me,” Kisses and Lies , follows Scarlett and Taylor even more as they find more evidence that can help them solve Dan’s murder. We know he died from anaphylactic shock because he deathly allergic to peanuts. HE always has his EpiPen © with him but that night it was nowhere to be found. The reason he had this reaction is because someone drenched all the chips in peanut oil. Dan had none to eat but Scarlett out of mere nervousness gulped almost one whole bowl full. She having just met him did not know of his allergies and so many others at the party did not know either. Except Plum and his EpiPen© was found in her bag. After finding evidence that clears Plum surprisingly, Scarlett might have to start all over. So she decides to send a letter to the McAndrews asking just to talk. To her surprise they invite her to the famous Castle Airlie in Scotland. We are introduced there to Dan’s brother, Callum (which she didn’t know was Dan’s brother much less his twin.), his sister, Catriona, Callum’s girlfriend, Lucy (who was at the same party and has the exact same bag as Plum) and his parents. Something seems suspicious here with Lucy and Callum and Scarlett strives to find which one might want him dead. “Then I remember that I’m sixteen. And I need to build something for myself that isn’t connected to Dan in any way… or else I���ll lose myself completely.” This quote is from Scarlett and it tells that she really is longing to be “normal” again without this situation hanging on her back.“I really like who I am now. I like this Scarlett. I’m strong and I can think on my feet; I can be sneaky when I need to.” Scarlett said this when she was leaving Scotland after she had discovered Dan’s killer. This shows that she is relieved to get this weight lifted off her shoulders after being wrongfully accused. It also shows us that she thought it was well worth it to find Dan’s killer.
May 3, 2013
Whew! Finished that book as well! Okay, so Kisses and Lies is the second book in the Scarlett Wakefield series. Remember Kiss Me Kill Me? Yeah, that series.
In this book, the suspect list of the murder of Dan McAndrew is lengthened a lot! Scarlett discovers that not only Plum has that designer handbag in which they found Dans EpiPen, but also others, such as Lucy Raleigh. A lot of new characters are introduced, all of them very interesting. Also, the relationship between Jase and Scarlett is growing, although Scarlett still feels guitly to have fun with Jase while Dans mystery is still uncovered. Kisses and Lies contains a lot more action than the first one, and it still holds my interest. Scarlett does discover who killed Dan McAndrew, so I’m interested as to what will happen in A Kiss in the Dark.
This book was, just like the first one, surprisingly very good. I never expected to like a detective novel so much, but I guess there’s a first time for everything. The story evolves very quickly, and I was never bored. It kept me seated on the edge of my chair until the very end. Although the ending was a bit predictable, I didn’t really mind.
The characters really grow in this book. Scarlett, who always cowered in fear in front of Plum and her group, is now standing strong in her boots, and not afraid to defend herself. She is confident in her ability, and keeps her head cool in difficult situations. We also get to know Dan a little bit more. Scarlett discovers that not everything about him is what it seemed it was.
Even though I found the book engrossing, the romance was… indifferent to me. There was no spark of chemistry, in my opinion, between Jase and Scarlett. I seriously didn’t care about their problems, I just wanted to discover the mystery. Well, not everything can be perfect.
All in all, I was really happy about this book, although I’m afraid for the next one. Will it still hold my interest? I guess I’ll have to find out about very soon.
In this book, the suspect list of the murder of Dan McAndrew is lengthened a lot! Scarlett discovers that not only Plum has that designer handbag in which they found Dans EpiPen, but also others, such as Lucy Raleigh. A lot of new characters are introduced, all of them very interesting. Also, the relationship between Jase and Scarlett is growing, although Scarlett still feels guitly to have fun with Jase while Dans mystery is still uncovered. Kisses and Lies contains a lot more action than the first one, and it still holds my interest. Scarlett does discover who killed Dan McAndrew, so I’m interested as to what will happen in A Kiss in the Dark.
This book was, just like the first one, surprisingly very good. I never expected to like a detective novel so much, but I guess there’s a first time for everything. The story evolves very quickly, and I was never bored. It kept me seated on the edge of my chair until the very end. Although the ending was a bit predictable, I didn’t really mind.
The characters really grow in this book. Scarlett, who always cowered in fear in front of Plum and her group, is now standing strong in her boots, and not afraid to defend herself. She is confident in her ability, and keeps her head cool in difficult situations. We also get to know Dan a little bit more. Scarlett discovers that not everything about him is what it seemed it was.
Even though I found the book engrossing, the romance was… indifferent to me. There was no spark of chemistry, in my opinion, between Jase and Scarlett. I seriously didn’t care about their problems, I just wanted to discover the mystery. Well, not everything can be perfect.
All in all, I was really happy about this book, although I’m afraid for the next one. Will it still hold my interest? I guess I’ll have to find out about very soon.
September 24, 2009
I like how this book started right back in to the mystery of who killed Dan. Scarlett and Taylor are already into trouble by chapter three.
Half way through the book it picked up and the pages flew by. Scarlett ends up going and staying with Dan's family after she writes them a letter saying she has something of Dan's to return and wants to talk with them. When she gets there everyone is nice to her except Callum-Dan's twin brother that Scarlett didn't know about- and Lucy, Callum's girlfriend. Callum doesn't like her because he thinks she had something to do with Dan's death. And Lucy doesn't like her because she is jealous of her and Callum. Lucy wants to run the castle with Callum and they need to get married so that is why Lucy doesn't like Scarlett and shoots at her one day in the woods. Scarlett doesn't know it was Lucy until the end of the book.
I had figured out who the killer was around page 230. But it was still a shock at the end and how it played out.
I wish that Scarlett and Callum's relationship would have went farther. After Scarlett left to go to stay with Dan's family, Jase wasn't' really mentioned and I was really rooting for Scarlett and Callum. I understand the whole them not being together because of all that they had been through with Dan and the killer, but to me it would have been perfect because they could have helped each other through everything.
I hope there is another book after this one. I am thinking not since the killer was already identified. But the way the book ended it was left open at the end, either in the way for you to make up your own ending on where Jase and Scarlett's relationship goes and how Plum and Scarlett get along now that Plum is going to Scarlett's school now. Or if their will be more book and more mysteries for Scarlett and Taylor to solve. I am hoping more books since I want Scarlett to get with Callum. :)
Half way through the book it picked up and the pages flew by. Scarlett ends up going and staying with Dan's family after she writes them a letter saying she has something of Dan's to return and wants to talk with them. When she gets there everyone is nice to her except Callum-Dan's twin brother that Scarlett didn't know about- and Lucy, Callum's girlfriend. Callum doesn't like her because he thinks she had something to do with Dan's death. And Lucy doesn't like her because she is jealous of her and Callum. Lucy wants to run the castle with Callum and they need to get married so that is why Lucy doesn't like Scarlett and shoots at her one day in the woods. Scarlett doesn't know it was Lucy until the end of the book.
I had figured out who the killer was around page 230. But it was still a shock at the end and how it played out.
I wish that Scarlett and Callum's relationship would have went farther. After Scarlett left to go to stay with Dan's family, Jase wasn't' really mentioned and I was really rooting for Scarlett and Callum. I understand the whole them not being together because of all that they had been through with Dan and the killer, but to me it would have been perfect because they could have helped each other through everything.
I hope there is another book after this one. I am thinking not since the killer was already identified. But the way the book ended it was left open at the end, either in the way for you to make up your own ending on where Jase and Scarlett's relationship goes and how Plum and Scarlett get along now that Plum is going to Scarlett's school now. Or if their will be more book and more mysteries for Scarlett and Taylor to solve. I am hoping more books since I want Scarlett to get with Callum. :)
January 28, 2011
Scarlett is trying to find the person who killed Dan. She is sneaking around and trying to get evidence to conculed who killed Dan. She even went and called Dan's family telling them that she had something of Dan's and that Dan told her something to say to his family.
She went to the castle that Dan's family lives in and stayed for a few days. Dan's twin brother was very angry with Scarlett and kept saying that she shouldn't be at their house.
Scarlett snuck around the house for a few days and started getting to know Dan's brother. He started liking Scarlett. Together they tried to find the truth about Dan's death.
One day when Scarlett was looking for Dan's brother she heard his voice and his sister's. His sister was trying to kill her other brother and was telling him that she killed Dan because she wanted to make the castle her's.
Scarlett tried to stop the sister by tripping her but she caught Scarlett and told her that she was going to kill her. In the end the sister dies and the brother and Scarlett still alive.
I can't believe that a sister would kill her own brother and try to kill the other one just because she wanted the house. I could see why she was mad that she would get the house but I would not kill my own brothers over a house. I think that something that her brothers did also triggered her wanting to kill them.
I also think her father was unfair in the will that he was going to leave that stated the men would get the house before the women. The father was a goood man but his judgement is poor.
I also feel sorry for Dan's brother because he just lost both of his siblings. His mother is hysterical because all of this stuff is happening to her family.
She went to the castle that Dan's family lives in and stayed for a few days. Dan's twin brother was very angry with Scarlett and kept saying that she shouldn't be at their house.
Scarlett snuck around the house for a few days and started getting to know Dan's brother. He started liking Scarlett. Together they tried to find the truth about Dan's death.
One day when Scarlett was looking for Dan's brother she heard his voice and his sister's. His sister was trying to kill her other brother and was telling him that she killed Dan because she wanted to make the castle her's.
Scarlett tried to stop the sister by tripping her but she caught Scarlett and told her that she was going to kill her. In the end the sister dies and the brother and Scarlett still alive.
I can't believe that a sister would kill her own brother and try to kill the other one just because she wanted the house. I could see why she was mad that she would get the house but I would not kill my own brothers over a house. I think that something that her brothers did also triggered her wanting to kill them.
I also think her father was unfair in the will that he was going to leave that stated the men would get the house before the women. The father was a goood man but his judgement is poor.
I also feel sorry for Dan's brother because he just lost both of his siblings. His mother is hysterical because all of this stuff is happening to her family.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2014
The title of my book is called "Kisses and Lies" by Lauren Henderson. It's genre is mystery murder. There are a total of 309 pages. This book is about a girl named Scarlet who is invited to a party by the pretty, rich, popular girls. At this party, she sees her crush named David. David comes up to her and starts talking to her. Minutes later, they end up kissing. This was Scarlett's first kiss. In the middle of it, David drops dead. Literally. Scarlett is broken. She believes this was planned by someone and that she was only being used for bate. So throughout the book, Scarlett and her best friend Taylor get more and more clues and information on this night. Interrogating people that were at the party, snooping, anything they can do to get the mystery solved.
Throughout the whole book I was thinking constantly about different scenarios that could have occurred and thinking about different characters that could have planned the murder. This is definitely in my top 10 best books I've ever read because the teenage girls relate to many other teenage girls like myself, the main character is described to look similar to me and is the same age as me. I also just generally love mystery murder books, they managed to fit much humor and sarcasm into the book as well. I would recommend this book to teenage girls definitely who enjoy mysteries. I would recommend it to anyone who watches the show "Pretty Little Liars" also. I would not recommend this book to guys in anyway, nothing about it is masculine. Ultimately this book is great and I'd like to find books more like it.
Throughout the whole book I was thinking constantly about different scenarios that could have occurred and thinking about different characters that could have planned the murder. This is definitely in my top 10 best books I've ever read because the teenage girls relate to many other teenage girls like myself, the main character is described to look similar to me and is the same age as me. I also just generally love mystery murder books, they managed to fit much humor and sarcasm into the book as well. I would recommend this book to teenage girls definitely who enjoy mysteries. I would recommend it to anyone who watches the show "Pretty Little Liars" also. I would not recommend this book to guys in anyway, nothing about it is masculine. Ultimately this book is great and I'd like to find books more like it.
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July 7, 2017So, while the first book was cute, light, and interesting, the sequel is just...
I mean first I had trouble with this paragraph which sounds like it was written by an eleven year old:
It's just as dark in Coco Rouge as I imagined it would be. And even louder. For the first time in my life, I fully understand the expression "I can't hear myself think." If this place were drawn in a cartoon, it would have "Boom! Boom! Boom!" written above it, and wiggly lines around to show the whole building shaking with the force of the music they're playing.
And then there was this paragraph where Scarlett becomes the most judgemental person in the room and possibly kind of racist?
I'll die before I become one of those white girls trying to pretend they're black. It's completely and utterly embarrassing. Oh yeah--did I mention everyone in here is white? Literally everyone. The only black people here are the bouncers. But the music's all sexy black R&B. Very odd.
I can't even talk about the things wrong with those few sentences.
So then I stopped reading because I foresaw myself scratching out my eyeballs in frustration and annoyance.
See my review of Kiss Me Kill Me here.
I mean first I had trouble with this paragraph which sounds like it was written by an eleven year old:
It's just as dark in Coco Rouge as I imagined it would be. And even louder. For the first time in my life, I fully understand the expression "I can't hear myself think." If this place were drawn in a cartoon, it would have "Boom! Boom! Boom!" written above it, and wiggly lines around to show the whole building shaking with the force of the music they're playing.
And then there was this paragraph where Scarlett becomes the most judgemental person in the room and possibly kind of racist?
I'll die before I become one of those white girls trying to pretend they're black. It's completely and utterly embarrassing. Oh yeah--did I mention everyone in here is white? Literally everyone. The only black people here are the bouncers. But the music's all sexy black R&B. Very odd.
I can't even talk about the things wrong with those few sentences.
So then I stopped reading because I foresaw myself scratching out my eyeballs in frustration and annoyance.
See my review of Kiss Me Kill Me here.
January 31, 2017
After reading Kiss Me, Kill Me I was preparing myself for some more bad writing. Especially with Henderson's skin descriptions. It even got worse with stereotyping and such comment as "I'll die before I become one of those white girls trying to pretend they're black," because there are some girls grinding up against guys on a dance floor.
Despite all that, I wanted to keep reading because I wanted to know what truly happened to Dan and who was involved with it. Hoping that Scarlett would get her closure that she needed. I was a little disappointed that Taylor didn't have much of a role in this book . . . until the end, and even then it just felt like the author was just tossing her in.
The ending, in my opinion, felt a lot more adult than for a young adult book. And it was very reminiscent to a cheesy Lifetime movie. The person responsible for Dan's death might not have been completely known until the end, but the ending itself was very predictable. I just knew what was going to happen.
I wanted light and fluffy . . . I got light and fluffy. I'm just slightly disappointed that it wasn't better. I definitely won't be reading books #3 and #4, even though I've read that Callum comes back in book #4 - I really liked Callum and wondered if he'd come back and what it would be like between Scarlett and Callum now; all things considered.
Despite all that, I wanted to keep reading because I wanted to know what truly happened to Dan and who was involved with it. Hoping that Scarlett would get her closure that she needed. I was a little disappointed that Taylor didn't have much of a role in this book . . . until the end, and even then it just felt like the author was just tossing her in.
The ending, in my opinion, felt a lot more adult than for a young adult book. And it was very reminiscent to a cheesy Lifetime movie. The person responsible for Dan's death might not have been completely known until the end, but the ending itself was very predictable. I just knew what was going to happen.
I wanted light and fluffy . . . I got light and fluffy. I'm just slightly disappointed that it wasn't better. I definitely won't be reading books #3 and #4, even though I've read that Callum comes back in book #4 - I really liked Callum and wondered if he'd come back and what it would be like between Scarlett and Callum now; all things considered.
December 16, 2011
The book was just OK. I thought the author took too much time describing settings and not enough with actually developing a plausible story. This is the continuation of the story from Kiss me, kill me after Scarlett Wakefield kisses Dan and he drops dead. Everyone points the finger at her, but then it is discovered that Scarlett had traces of peanut oil from some "crisps" (potato chips to us Americans) she had been munching on at the party they were both attending. For some reason Dan did not have his Epi pen and he died right then and there because of his severe allergic reaction to the peanut oil. Once Scarlett's name is cleared though, she is adamant on finding out who was responsible for the missing Epi pen. Why this investigation couldn't be handled by Dan's family or the authorities, I don't know. Oh wait, I do know, for the purposes of this series of books. There are so many things that happen that are just too "coincidental". Scarlett just happens to get access to Dan's families will, and his bedroom, and his sister's bedroom. The story is just too contrived, the way the teens talk and behave is not very believable and the whole McAndrew family saga was too 80's soap opera for me. I'm going to think twice before I read the next installment.
July 27, 2013
Surprisingly, I was totally hooked to this novel. Mysterious, surprising, and fresh, Kisses and Lies was a book worth reading, in fact, I should have read the novel a long time ago.
Scarlett's life is only getting worse. Recently, she has discovered a mystery fro her to solve, so it doesn't look like she is the suspect. Dan has died, and if he had his EpiPen with him, he'd be okay. When Scarlett spotted one in Plum's handbag, she might have found her main suspect. Then having to travel to the McAndrew estate in Scotland, Scarlett must decide where the truth lies.
I've read reviews where people said that you shouldn't read this novel if you haven't read the first. I am totally against that. I didn't read the first novel, and here I am, done with the second, and I had no confusion problems at all, and if you have read my other reviews, you'd know that I get confused easily. The story recaps in what happened in the first novel, so you're safe to go.
Everything happened very quickly here. The story itself was very interesting, unique, and reminded me of Nancy Drew in some ways, with a more interesting twist.
This story has made me want to get the next novel, a true fact that this really was a one to remember.
Scarlett's life is only getting worse. Recently, she has discovered a mystery fro her to solve, so it doesn't look like she is the suspect. Dan has died, and if he had his EpiPen with him, he'd be okay. When Scarlett spotted one in Plum's handbag, she might have found her main suspect. Then having to travel to the McAndrew estate in Scotland, Scarlett must decide where the truth lies.
I've read reviews where people said that you shouldn't read this novel if you haven't read the first. I am totally against that. I didn't read the first novel, and here I am, done with the second, and I had no confusion problems at all, and if you have read my other reviews, you'd know that I get confused easily. The story recaps in what happened in the first novel, so you're safe to go.
Everything happened very quickly here. The story itself was very interesting, unique, and reminded me of Nancy Drew in some ways, with a more interesting twist.
This story has made me want to get the next novel, a true fact that this really was a one to remember.
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