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Baker Oaks #4
The Lies Always Told
My dad always said that tragedy strikes in threes and I never knew what he meant until now.
You see I never thought falling in love for Gus Zabana, millionaire and most eligible bachelor of our times, could happen or would be considered a tragedy but when he is 6’4’, perfect dark skin, handsome, and good in bed, there’s no much you can do. Did I mention our parents have been friends for forever and that he’s a lot older than me? That’s the true tragedy.
But after one night of lingering hands and scorching hot touches, he kisses me—hard. He shows me what I’ve been missing for years and just as exhilarating as the high is, so is the crash. I’m trying to balance a new job, a new town, and my feelings for Gus, when my sister announces she’s dating his twin brother too. Cue tragedy number two.
We couldn’t possibly tell everyone now that we have been sneaking around for months, sharing beds, swimming without clothes, and traveling just the two of us. Even if he’s the funny guy who drives me wild behind closed door making all of my wildest dreams come true (even the ones I didn’t know I wanted.)
He says he’s not good for me, until he is. He says he has mastered the art of serial dating but keeps calling me because he wants to see me. He says he’s too old, until he forgets how much older and even though he is gentle, he also has the roughest hands and uses them at the right time.
But when the third tragedy comes, this one out of my control, only the bond I share with Gus can pull me from going under the wave. I—Nellie Thompson— swore I would fight to stay afloat but wave after wave crashes becoming a flood of challenges and I really would like to avoid letting them take us adrift.
Could our bond be enough to survive the undertow? Or will it be swept away, leaving nothing but the wreckage behind?
The Lies Always Told is an emotional, steamy, secret relationship, and family childhood friends to lovers. It is Baker Oaks #4 but it can be read as a stand alone.
You see I never thought falling in love for Gus Zabana, millionaire and most eligible bachelor of our times, could happen or would be considered a tragedy but when he is 6’4’, perfect dark skin, handsome, and good in bed, there’s no much you can do. Did I mention our parents have been friends for forever and that he’s a lot older than me? That’s the true tragedy.
But after one night of lingering hands and scorching hot touches, he kisses me—hard. He shows me what I’ve been missing for years and just as exhilarating as the high is, so is the crash. I’m trying to balance a new job, a new town, and my feelings for Gus, when my sister announces she’s dating his twin brother too. Cue tragedy number two.
We couldn’t possibly tell everyone now that we have been sneaking around for months, sharing beds, swimming without clothes, and traveling just the two of us. Even if he’s the funny guy who drives me wild behind closed door making all of my wildest dreams come true (even the ones I didn’t know I wanted.)
He says he’s not good for me, until he is. He says he has mastered the art of serial dating but keeps calling me because he wants to see me. He says he’s too old, until he forgets how much older and even though he is gentle, he also has the roughest hands and uses them at the right time.
But when the third tragedy comes, this one out of my control, only the bond I share with Gus can pull me from going under the wave. I—Nellie Thompson— swore I would fight to stay afloat but wave after wave crashes becoming a flood of challenges and I really would like to avoid letting them take us adrift.
Could our bond be enough to survive the undertow? Or will it be swept away, leaving nothing but the wreckage behind?
The Lies Always Told is an emotional, steamy, secret relationship, and family childhood friends to lovers. It is Baker Oaks #4 but it can be read as a stand alone.
452 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 25, 2025
63 people are currently reading
1050 people want to read
About the author
Ambar Cordova
8 books287 followersAmbar Cordova is a romance author of heartfelt multicultural stories. With a focus on raw, emotional storytelling, she creates relatable worlds with flawed characters that feel real. She grew up in the Dominican Republic and brings the diversity as inspiration to her stories. Ambar writes books that readers not only escape into, but also find themselves in.
Her debut series, Baker Oaks, features a cozy small town in Florida showing multicultural stories that bring butterflies and sometimes tears to her readers. When Ambar is not writing she’s dancing, spending time with her family and reading.
Ambar enjoys boat rides, traveling, and spending time outside.
CONNECT WITH AMBAR
•NEWSLETTER: acordovabooks.com/newsletter
•FACEBOOK: facebook.com/acordovabooks
•FACEBOOK READER GROUP: facebook.com/groups/735186988190607
•INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/acordovabooks
•TIKTOK: tiktok.com/@authorambarcordova
•WEBSITE: www.acordovabooks.com
Her debut series, Baker Oaks, features a cozy small town in Florida showing multicultural stories that bring butterflies and sometimes tears to her readers. When Ambar is not writing she’s dancing, spending time with her family and reading.
Ambar enjoys boat rides, traveling, and spending time outside.
CONNECT WITH AMBAR
•NEWSLETTER: acordovabooks.com/newsletter
•FACEBOOK: facebook.com/acordovabooks
•FACEBOOK READER GROUP: facebook.com/groups/735186988190607
•INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/acordovabooks
•TIKTOK: tiktok.com/@authorambarcordova
•WEBSITE: www.acordovabooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews
June 4, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5 stars
Take a deep breath. This one is heavy. I read The Lies Always Told slower than Ambar Cordova’s other books, not because it didn’t hook me, but because it hurt. This story carries so much emotional weight, and while there is a HEA at the end, the path to get there is anything but easy.
Nellie. Sweet, complicated Nellie. She’s been through so much, quietly fighting battles most people never see. She finally gets a glimpse of happiness and normalcy, and it’s ripped away just as quickly. Watching her rise and fall throughout this book was heartbreaking. Her highs gave me hope and her lows made me want to reach into the pages and hold her.
Then there’s Gus. An MMC you can’t help but root for, even when you want to scream at him. His heart is in the right place and his love for Nellie is clear, but some of his choices made things harder than they needed to be. He cares so deeply, sometimes to a fault.
As an educator and someone who has struggled with her own mental health, this book was hard to read at times. I strongly recommend checking the content warnings and handling yourself with care. That said, it’s a beautiful story. Heart-wrenching, yes, but also full of love and meaning.
I really appreciate Ambar for pouring her soul into this book. You can feel how personal it is, and that made the experience even more powerful.
Take a deep breath. This one is heavy. I read The Lies Always Told slower than Ambar Cordova’s other books, not because it didn’t hook me, but because it hurt. This story carries so much emotional weight, and while there is a HEA at the end, the path to get there is anything but easy.
Nellie. Sweet, complicated Nellie. She’s been through so much, quietly fighting battles most people never see. She finally gets a glimpse of happiness and normalcy, and it’s ripped away just as quickly. Watching her rise and fall throughout this book was heartbreaking. Her highs gave me hope and her lows made me want to reach into the pages and hold her.
Then there’s Gus. An MMC you can’t help but root for, even when you want to scream at him. His heart is in the right place and his love for Nellie is clear, but some of his choices made things harder than they needed to be. He cares so deeply, sometimes to a fault.
As an educator and someone who has struggled with her own mental health, this book was hard to read at times. I strongly recommend checking the content warnings and handling yourself with care. That said, it’s a beautiful story. Heart-wrenching, yes, but also full of love and meaning.
I really appreciate Ambar for pouring her soul into this book. You can feel how personal it is, and that made the experience even more powerful.
July 2, 2025
Wow! My favourite so far by Ambar Cordova This book is not just soft romance, it felt heavier at times.
Nellie, I just love her. She went through so much and her journey throughout the book was so heartwarming and beautiful at the same time. The way she faced ups and downs and got the love she deserved at last was satisfying to read.
Gus was so so good. The way he cared for Nellie so deeply and supported her was so beautiful to read.
I love them, both of them. Really loved the mental health rep in the story.
I wholeheartedly recommend this one.
Check for the TWs...
Thank you so much @ambarcordova for the ARC! ❤️
Nellie, I just love her. She went through so much and her journey throughout the book was so heartwarming and beautiful at the same time. The way she faced ups and downs and got the love she deserved at last was satisfying to read.
Gus was so so good. The way he cared for Nellie so deeply and supported her was so beautiful to read.
I love them, both of them. Really loved the mental health rep in the story.
I wholeheartedly recommend this one.
Check for the TWs...
Thank you so much @ambarcordova for the ARC! ❤️
June 25, 2025
4.75 ⭐️: Gus and Nellie 💜😭
I have so much love for Nellie and Gus and I think their love story is so special. This book had me feeling all the emotions and I will say that it took me a little long then it probably should have but that was just because I needed to be in the right headspace when I read it. READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS, they are there for a reason!!
Thank you to Luna Literacy for the ARC and Ambar for such a heartfelt story!!
I have so much love for Nellie and Gus and I think their love story is so special. This book had me feeling all the emotions and I will say that it took me a little long then it probably should have but that was just because I needed to be in the right headspace when I read it. READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS, they are there for a reason!!
Thank you to Luna Literacy for the ARC and Ambar for such a heartfelt story!!
June 27, 2025
I loved this book so much. I couldn’t put the book down. I’m excited for the next book.
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
June 26, 2025
what a good emotional roller coaster
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️
Omg this book. 😍
This book absolutely RUINED ME.🥹🥹 I sobbed so hard… in fact I’m still sobbing. This book was so so freaking good, but grab your tissues besties because you are going to need them.
✨Small Town Romance
✨ Secret Relationship
✨ Millionaire MMC
✨ Hurt/Comfort
✨ Chronic Illness Rep
Gus and Nellie were soulmates, but good lord did they put us and themselves THROUGH IT to get there. But I loved every minute of their hard fought love story.
I also felt so down seen with both the neurodivergence rep and the chronic illness rep. And both of those things were handled with so much care. Ambar always puts me in my feels with her stories, but this one… it’s probably one of the most emotional things I’ve read all year 💕
I love Gus and Nellie both separately and together and I really loved how they really fought for each other. This book had heavy topics (check your trigger warnings besties and then join me in being a sobbing puddle) but my goodness they made this love story so epic.
Also I love this friend group and I never want to leave them. I also need the next story like I need air.
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️
Omg this book. 😍
This book absolutely RUINED ME.🥹🥹 I sobbed so hard… in fact I’m still sobbing. This book was so so freaking good, but grab your tissues besties because you are going to need them.
✨Small Town Romance
✨ Secret Relationship
✨ Millionaire MMC
✨ Hurt/Comfort
✨ Chronic Illness Rep
Gus and Nellie were soulmates, but good lord did they put us and themselves THROUGH IT to get there. But I loved every minute of their hard fought love story.
I also felt so down seen with both the neurodivergence rep and the chronic illness rep. And both of those things were handled with so much care. Ambar always puts me in my feels with her stories, but this one… it’s probably one of the most emotional things I’ve read all year 💕
I love Gus and Nellie both separately and together and I really loved how they really fought for each other. This book had heavy topics (check your trigger warnings besties and then join me in being a sobbing puddle) but my goodness they made this love story so epic.
Also I love this friend group and I never want to leave them. I also need the next story like I need air.
June 18, 2025
I love Ambar Cordova and everything she has written. But The Lies Always Told? Absolutely knocked it out of the park. This may be my favorite book of The Baker Oaks Series and that's a tough spot to steal.
I don't know what magic Ambar performs to write a book but I am here for it. In The Lies Always Told we follow two kids of best friends who grew up together and have been reunited as adults. They work through the "what ifs" of being in a relationship while keeping what they have a secret, but that's not the only secret. Gus has a chronic health condition that he keeps from Nellie.
I related to Gus so much through this book even though I do not have the same chronic illness. I felt so seen and represented and really resonated with his thoughts, words and actions.
If you love romance with spice and meaningful connections I highly recommend picking up The Lies Always Told (and all the other Baker Oaks books while you're at it)
I don't know what magic Ambar performs to write a book but I am here for it. In The Lies Always Told we follow two kids of best friends who grew up together and have been reunited as adults. They work through the "what ifs" of being in a relationship while keeping what they have a secret, but that's not the only secret. Gus has a chronic health condition that he keeps from Nellie.
I related to Gus so much through this book even though I do not have the same chronic illness. I felt so seen and represented and really resonated with his thoughts, words and actions.
If you love romance with spice and meaningful connections I highly recommend picking up The Lies Always Told (and all the other Baker Oaks books while you're at it)
August 24, 2025
3.5 stars
This is the fourth book in the series but I received it as a blind date with a book, and I had no trouble following the characters and plot, so it's totally fine as a standalone!
This book was addictive and fast-paced in the fact that there was so much freaking STUFF going on at all times. Like why was I ready to mark this book as read within the first half? But then a whole metric ton of stuff kept happening?? We get it, their lives are busy and both main characters were handing personal shit on top of it.
I did enjoy the romance side of things, but there was a never-ending miscommunication trope and I caught myself rolling my eyes A LOT since Nellie (short for Cornelia, which is an insane name in the year 2025) (apologies to any Cornelias out there), who is freshly 21 in the book, couldn't seem to realize that Gus (the love of her life?) has complex emotions and medical situations that he may not want aired out right after they have sex. It was like an endless circle of them almost coming to terms and sharing everything, but then oops Gus didn't want to share one thing and then they were fighting but then oh! They're back to talking and oh here we go again with Gus not sharing and Nellie getting mad (rightfully so in some cases).
The ending kind of just was there, and I felt like it was kind of rushed after how in-depth so many other parts of this book were (why did we have to get the details of all the things on the multiple (!) charcuterie boards? One thing about a man: you tell him you like fruit and cold cuts and he will MAKE SURE you have fruit and cold cuts).
This is the fourth book in the series but I received it as a blind date with a book, and I had no trouble following the characters and plot, so it's totally fine as a standalone!
This book was addictive and fast-paced in the fact that there was so much freaking STUFF going on at all times. Like why was I ready to mark this book as read within the first half? But then a whole metric ton of stuff kept happening?? We get it, their lives are busy and both main characters were handing personal shit on top of it.
I did enjoy the romance side of things, but there was a never-ending miscommunication trope and I caught myself rolling my eyes A LOT since Nellie (short for Cornelia, which is an insane name in the year 2025) (apologies to any Cornelias out there), who is freshly 21 in the book, couldn't seem to realize that Gus (the love of her life?) has complex emotions and medical situations that he may not want aired out right after they have sex. It was like an endless circle of them almost coming to terms and sharing everything, but then oops Gus didn't want to share one thing and then they were fighting but then oh! They're back to talking and oh here we go again with Gus not sharing and Nellie getting mad (rightfully so in some cases).
The ending kind of just was there, and I felt like it was kind of rushed after how in-depth so many other parts of this book were (why did we have to get the details of all the things on the multiple (!) charcuterie boards? One thing about a man: you tell him you like fruit and cold cuts and he will MAKE SURE you have fruit and cold cuts).
June 23, 2025
Rating: 7/10⭐️
Spice: 3/5🌶
Tropes:childhood friends to lovers; secret relationship; chronic illness;
If you're a fan of steamy romance laced with angst, heartbreak, and a twist that hits you right in the feels, The Lies Always Told is a must-read.
WHEN I TELL YOU I CRIED SO MANY TIMES.
One, I love the rep of such an unknown health issue that some have to deal with. I had no idea what HAE was and it was eye opening to see how it showed itself in Gus and seeing these two navigate that. I can't imagine living with something like that and how I would react when it comes to telling someone and allowing someone to be in my life. Gus broke my heart a few time and infuriated me a few times I just wanted to shake him but at the end of the day man did he love Nellie with is whole chest. These two were electric together but it truly had to happen in THEIR time and the RIGHT time. Nellie was so freaking fierce and I just loved her personality!! & boy oh boy was this a steamy one!!
def recommend!!
Spice: 3/5🌶
Tropes:childhood friends to lovers; secret relationship; chronic illness;
If you're a fan of steamy romance laced with angst, heartbreak, and a twist that hits you right in the feels, The Lies Always Told is a must-read.
WHEN I TELL YOU I CRIED SO MANY TIMES.
One, I love the rep of such an unknown health issue that some have to deal with. I had no idea what HAE was and it was eye opening to see how it showed itself in Gus and seeing these two navigate that. I can't imagine living with something like that and how I would react when it comes to telling someone and allowing someone to be in my life. Gus broke my heart a few time and infuriated me a few times I just wanted to shake him but at the end of the day man did he love Nellie with is whole chest. These two were electric together but it truly had to happen in THEIR time and the RIGHT time. Nellie was so freaking fierce and I just loved her personality!! & boy oh boy was this a steamy one!!
def recommend!!
June 25, 2025
let me first begin with, if Ambar Cordova writes it, i will read it and have the time of my life.
i’m currently writing this review with dried up tears on my face that i left as a reminder of the pain & agony i just went through(the last 20% of this book i would recommend having box of tissues on stand-by).
where do i even begin with Nellie and Gus. Nellie, i fell for her head first the moment she said a single word. as someone who has a tendency to say what’s on their mind, i felt seen and i’m so happy she found a man like Gus who loves her and every single word that comes out of her mouth. Gus, what a man. so down bad. i love <3
the mental health rep… the invisible disability and chronic illness rep… the secrets eating them alive… PHYSICALLY AND LITERALLY.
this is a wild ride and i’d like to once again recommend a box of tissues!!
i’m currently writing this review with dried up tears on my face that i left as a reminder of the pain & agony i just went through(the last 20% of this book i would recommend having box of tissues on stand-by).
where do i even begin with Nellie and Gus. Nellie, i fell for her head first the moment she said a single word. as someone who has a tendency to say what’s on their mind, i felt seen and i’m so happy she found a man like Gus who loves her and every single word that comes out of her mouth. Gus, what a man. so down bad. i love <3
the mental health rep… the invisible disability and chronic illness rep… the secrets eating them alive… PHYSICALLY AND LITERALLY.
this is a wild ride and i’d like to once again recommend a box of tissues!!
July 2, 2025
This book healed me in ways I didn’t know I needed. I’ve never felt so seen, so understood, so gently held by words on a page. The way it spoke about mental health, loss, and the quiet sadness we carry—things I’ve struggled with for so long—felt like someone finally saying, “I see you. I hear you.”
There were parts that echoed thoughts I’ve never said out loud. The weight of blaming myself for something that was never mine to carry… this book helped me release that. It helped me forgive myself in a way I didn’t think I could.
Ambar, thank you. From the deepest part of my heart, thank you for writing something that reminded me I’m not alone & that it was never my fault.
And a huge thank you to Luna Literacy and Ambar for the arc—forever grateful 🥲
There were parts that echoed thoughts I’ve never said out loud. The weight of blaming myself for something that was never mine to carry… this book helped me release that. It helped me forgive myself in a way I didn’t think I could.
Ambar, thank you. From the deepest part of my heart, thank you for writing something that reminded me I’m not alone & that it was never my fault.
And a huge thank you to Luna Literacy and Ambar for the arc—forever grateful 🥲
August 6, 2025
flew through the first 60%, it was super easy to get into. but after that, it just dragged. the pacing completely dropped off and most of the plot points felt unnecessary (school shooting???) or just didn’t go anywhere. kind of lost interest by the end. 2 stars for me.
July 6, 2025
“𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘀𝗼 𝗮𝗳𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗱 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝗺𝗲, 𝗜 𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗻’𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗽 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗻 𝗶𝗳 𝗜 𝗹𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗵𝗲𝗿…”
Ok…Ambar…Ms Cordova….we need to have chat. 🥹🥹🥹 I don’t think I’ve ever cried this much while reading any book ever. This is my first time reading Ambars books and I’m confidently saying, she is going to be an auto-buy author for me from now on. Anyone who can write a story like this one is someone I need to read at all times.
This book is HEAVY…please…I beg of you…check the trigger warnings. Remember your mental health always comes first. It’s a very VERY emotionally heavy read. I’m a reader than can finish a book in a day and it took me a few days to get through this because I needed to take breaks from how much it was making me feel. So just please. Mind your triggers and be kind to yourself. Read it at your pace 💜
Nellie and Gus…perfectly imperfect in every way. I don’t even know what to say about these two that would be enough because the are truly some of the most complex and beautifully written characters I’ve ever read.
Gus is our millionaire MMC. Guarded…strong…and secretly dealing with the weight of having a debilitating chronic illness. As a nurse…I felt that Ambar really tapped into the emotions of people who suffer silently with HAE. It’s an illness that not a lot of people know about but is very debilitating and painful.
Nellie…sweet sweet girl. I love Nellie so much. She is outspoken and at times speaks before thinking. She has her own set of health issues that she’s keeping secret while being a source of support for the children at her school and those around her.
Nellie and Gus start off as family friends, turned situationship, turned secret relationship turned more. It’s complicated and at times messy. Both are EXTREMELY guarded. Not wanting to let anyone in and keeping secrets to protect those around them from what they see as a burden. But secrets never stay hidden for long…and when you’re in a relationship and have secrets like this, it’s only a matter of time before they eat away at you and cause you to push the other person away. And we see that with Gus and Nellie.
We see the two of them come together and pull apart over and over. The fear of hurting the other one and being a burden keeping them from truly letting each other in. But when they do…it’s beautiful. It’s a realistic view of two imperfect people finding the love they need and deserve in each other. They both learn to accept help…accept kindness. They learn that love…when it’s real and true…is unconditional.
This story will tear you apart…break your heart…make you angry and crying. But it will also piece you back together…restoring your faith in love and remind you that when you find your person, they will love all of you…even the parts of you that you think are unlovable.
Thank you so so much to Ambar Cordova and Luna Literary for the incredible opportunity to ARC read this book 💜
💜Small Town Romance
🪻Secret Romance
💜Chronic Illness Rep
🪻Millionaire MMC
💜Educator FMC
🪻Situationship turned More
💜Hurt/Comfort
🪻Neurodivergent Rep
💜Mental Health Rep
🪻Emotionally HEAVY Rep
💜Angst
🪻Childhood Friends to Lovers
💜Reformed Playboy
🪻Multicultural
💜Invisible Disability
🪻Dual POV
💜HEA
Ok…Ambar…Ms Cordova….we need to have chat. 🥹🥹🥹 I don’t think I’ve ever cried this much while reading any book ever. This is my first time reading Ambars books and I’m confidently saying, she is going to be an auto-buy author for me from now on. Anyone who can write a story like this one is someone I need to read at all times.
This book is HEAVY…please…I beg of you…check the trigger warnings. Remember your mental health always comes first. It’s a very VERY emotionally heavy read. I’m a reader than can finish a book in a day and it took me a few days to get through this because I needed to take breaks from how much it was making me feel. So just please. Mind your triggers and be kind to yourself. Read it at your pace 💜
Nellie and Gus…perfectly imperfect in every way. I don’t even know what to say about these two that would be enough because the are truly some of the most complex and beautifully written characters I’ve ever read.
Gus is our millionaire MMC. Guarded…strong…and secretly dealing with the weight of having a debilitating chronic illness. As a nurse…I felt that Ambar really tapped into the emotions of people who suffer silently with HAE. It’s an illness that not a lot of people know about but is very debilitating and painful.
Nellie…sweet sweet girl. I love Nellie so much. She is outspoken and at times speaks before thinking. She has her own set of health issues that she’s keeping secret while being a source of support for the children at her school and those around her.
Nellie and Gus start off as family friends, turned situationship, turned secret relationship turned more. It’s complicated and at times messy. Both are EXTREMELY guarded. Not wanting to let anyone in and keeping secrets to protect those around them from what they see as a burden. But secrets never stay hidden for long…and when you’re in a relationship and have secrets like this, it’s only a matter of time before they eat away at you and cause you to push the other person away. And we see that with Gus and Nellie.
We see the two of them come together and pull apart over and over. The fear of hurting the other one and being a burden keeping them from truly letting each other in. But when they do…it’s beautiful. It’s a realistic view of two imperfect people finding the love they need and deserve in each other. They both learn to accept help…accept kindness. They learn that love…when it’s real and true…is unconditional.
This story will tear you apart…break your heart…make you angry and crying. But it will also piece you back together…restoring your faith in love and remind you that when you find your person, they will love all of you…even the parts of you that you think are unlovable.
Thank you so so much to Ambar Cordova and Luna Literary for the incredible opportunity to ARC read this book 💜
💜Small Town Romance
🪻Secret Romance
💜Chronic Illness Rep
🪻Millionaire MMC
💜Educator FMC
🪻Situationship turned More
💜Hurt/Comfort
🪻Neurodivergent Rep
💜Mental Health Rep
🪻Emotionally HEAVY Rep
💜Angst
🪻Childhood Friends to Lovers
💜Reformed Playboy
🪻Multicultural
💜Invisible Disability
🪻Dual POV
💜HEA
June 29, 2025
This book is an absolute masterclass in deeply felt emotional romance. Catch me driving to HEB in 10 to replace my now empty box of tissues from crying and a pint of ice cream as I attempt to collect myself from my current status as a puddle on the floor.
As a somewhat sensory sensitive middle school coordinator, I felt my soul tied to Nellie’s. Her dedication her students, her initial desire to numb overwhelming feelings rather than process them… God this book wrecked me and I just bought a second copy ON TOP OF my arc.
And Gus, our chronic illness warrior. The endless questions, the constant fear. Ambar writes the human experience so tangibly in her characters. Whether or not you’ve been in their shoes, you can feel their aches and triumphs so deeply. She also educates so naturally through their stories- both in terminology and awareness.
And together Nellie and Gus are the puzzle pieces that click into place. I love that they work hard to communicate with each other, and the messiness of learning felt so real. And I’d be remiss if I didn’t address how explosive their chemistry is. Yet it’s just as meaningful in the quieter intimacy they share.
With all the love in my heart, I strongly encourage checking trigger warnings.
The Lies Always Told is a stunning continuation in the Baker Oaks series, and seeing so many familiar characters was its own hug. Ambar, I’d like to cash in on that hug please. 143.
As a somewhat sensory sensitive middle school coordinator, I felt my soul tied to Nellie’s. Her dedication her students, her initial desire to numb overwhelming feelings rather than process them… God this book wrecked me and I just bought a second copy ON TOP OF my arc.
And Gus, our chronic illness warrior. The endless questions, the constant fear. Ambar writes the human experience so tangibly in her characters. Whether or not you’ve been in their shoes, you can feel their aches and triumphs so deeply. She also educates so naturally through their stories- both in terminology and awareness.
And together Nellie and Gus are the puzzle pieces that click into place. I love that they work hard to communicate with each other, and the messiness of learning felt so real. And I’d be remiss if I didn’t address how explosive their chemistry is. Yet it’s just as meaningful in the quieter intimacy they share.
With all the love in my heart, I strongly encourage checking trigger warnings.
The Lies Always Told is a stunning continuation in the Baker Oaks series, and seeing so many familiar characters was its own hug. Ambar, I’d like to cash in on that hug please. 143.
June 27, 2025
Buckle up yall! Ambar Cordova does 👏🏻 it 👏🏻 again!👏🏻 I laughed, swooned, sobbed like an absolute BABY, yelled, and swooned again. Gus and Nellie’s story is 10 out of 10! I’m a sucker for an age gap so I was instantly on board, then add a phenomenally told millionaire trope annnnnd secret relationship on top of it?? Triple sold! The mental health rep within this book too is just superior as well! Ambar has a way of writing stories that pull you in completely and you refuse to leave even after you finish the book. Baker oaks series as a whole will be engraved in your heart and brain for good and you won’t be upset about it!
A 100% full 5 stars from me! 🥹 LOVED every page of TLAT!
**PLEASE read the trigger warnings before reading. There are some HEAVY topics in this book that may not be suitable for everyone! Please, even if you don’t think you have any triggers, please check them out🩷**
A 100% full 5 stars from me! 🥹 LOVED every page of TLAT!
**PLEASE read the trigger warnings before reading. There are some HEAVY topics in this book that may not be suitable for everyone! Please, even if you don’t think you have any triggers, please check them out🩷**
July 7, 2025
Grab the tissues and buckle up my friends because this book hurts but in the best way. I honestly love when a book makes me feel all the feels and cry a good cry. I found myself having moments where I related to both MC's even through the frustration. Some of the reactions and choices they made felt so real to me where I could see myself doing the same.
Gus and Nellie are childhood friends who have a happenstance meeting and sparks fly. They convince themselves that it'll just be a summer fling and they will both go back to "real life" once its over. The spice in this doesn't overpower the story but also has enough heat to have you blushing if reading in public.
Ambar does an excellent job of representing Gus's chronic illness and Nellie's mental health struggles. I felt she handled it with care and respect and it shone through in her writing and the development of both characters.
Overall a beautiful emotional story that I give all my stars to!
Gus and Nellie are childhood friends who have a happenstance meeting and sparks fly. They convince themselves that it'll just be a summer fling and they will both go back to "real life" once its over. The spice in this doesn't overpower the story but also has enough heat to have you blushing if reading in public.
Ambar does an excellent job of representing Gus's chronic illness and Nellie's mental health struggles. I felt she handled it with care and respect and it shone through in her writing and the development of both characters.
Overall a beautiful emotional story that I give all my stars to!
June 14, 2025
Wow, this was SO much more emotional than I was expecting but I’m here for it. 🥹
Gus and Nellie have don’t have BIG history together but their families do. When they meet in a club one night and realize who each other is there is definitely attraction at first sight. Nellie has big brains, and Gus has big heart—even if it’s a little broken.
I loved the chronic illness rep in this. It can be scary and hard at times to accept it yourself and to put that burden on other people. I love that this was dove into so deeply. Even thought Nellie is very intelligent she still acted her young age of 21 and that made her character feel so real.
If you love the push and pull of an angsty romance this will be for you!
There is some super heavy tops in this book and Ambar outlines those so you aren’t alarmed. 🫶
Thank you to Ambar Cordova for the ARC of this beautiful multicultural romance!
Gus and Nellie have don’t have BIG history together but their families do. When they meet in a club one night and realize who each other is there is definitely attraction at first sight. Nellie has big brains, and Gus has big heart—even if it’s a little broken.
I loved the chronic illness rep in this. It can be scary and hard at times to accept it yourself and to put that burden on other people. I love that this was dove into so deeply. Even thought Nellie is very intelligent she still acted her young age of 21 and that made her character feel so real.
If you love the push and pull of an angsty romance this will be for you!
There is some super heavy tops in this book and Ambar outlines those so you aren’t alarmed. 🫶
Thank you to Ambar Cordova for the ARC of this beautiful multicultural romance!
June 22, 2025
When there’s a happily ever after for a childhood friends-to-lovers but the road to get there is heavy, bumpy, emotional, raw…whew! I couldn’t not root for Nellie and Gus! Nellie is a newly graduated school counselor who finds herself falling for Gus, her much older millionaire friend from childhood. Their secret relationship is full of steam and spice, but also hardships that pop their optimistic, perfect couple bubble— a health issue with him and a tragic work event for her. Their imperfections were pure and real, which made this contemporary romance a relatable and emotional read. I had the opportunity to read this early and please decide me as now I am off to find more hours in the day so I can catch up on the other books in this series…! 4.5 stars
Thanks to the author and Luna Literary Management for the eARC.
Thanks to the author and Luna Literary Management for the eARC.
June 25, 2025
this was my first read from ambar and it did not disappoint!! i was lucky enough to receive an arc copy from spinning the wheel of fun at ambar’s table during a signing event, and i am so glad i did.
i loved this book so much. it’s not often a book makes me teary eyed, but this got me🥹 i wanted to shake gus and nellie so bad every other chapter, but also they were the perfect match i couldn’t get enough of. their inability to stay away from each other, the tension, gus calling her ‘baby girl,’ the chemistry?!? CHEFS KISS to the whole thing🤌🏼😩
the chapters about what took place at the school and the aftermath were so suspenseful and heartbreaking. but the hea with gus and trouble happily together was worth riding the waves through this one🥹
went out of order since i got this arc, but i can’t wait to go back and read the rest of this series!!
i loved this book so much. it’s not often a book makes me teary eyed, but this got me🥹 i wanted to shake gus and nellie so bad every other chapter, but also they were the perfect match i couldn’t get enough of. their inability to stay away from each other, the tension, gus calling her ‘baby girl,’ the chemistry?!? CHEFS KISS to the whole thing🤌🏼😩
the chapters about what took place at the school and the aftermath were so suspenseful and heartbreaking. but the hea with gus and trouble happily together was worth riding the waves through this one🥹
went out of order since i got this arc, but i can’t wait to go back and read the rest of this series!!
July 1, 2025
Representation in books matter and I knew going into this one it wasn’t going to be an easy read but it would be worth the ride.
Gus and Nellie grew up together, their parents being friends and their siblings being friends, their lives were intertwined in so many different ways. When they run into each other unexpectedly not only does Gus realize that he hadn’t really seen Nellie for the woman she had become, Nellie realizes Gus is a certified hunk and she’s ready to let loose. With what starts as a sizzling situationship and turns into not only a journey of health discovery and acceptance for Gus but an almost tragedy and the clawing back up from rock bottom for Nellie.
While these two both struggled with communicating with one another- the love and the way they loved each other was such a beautiful story. Gus coming to terms with his health and limitations as well as finding a way to let Nellie in and see his vulnerable side. Nellie not only accepting and loving Gus for who he was but seeking him out for comfort and the “I didn’t know where else to go” moment 🥺
Thank you so much to Ambar + team for the eARC for review!
Congrats on the release of The Lies Always Told ✨ available now!!✨
Gus and Nellie grew up together, their parents being friends and their siblings being friends, their lives were intertwined in so many different ways. When they run into each other unexpectedly not only does Gus realize that he hadn’t really seen Nellie for the woman she had become, Nellie realizes Gus is a certified hunk and she’s ready to let loose. With what starts as a sizzling situationship and turns into not only a journey of health discovery and acceptance for Gus but an almost tragedy and the clawing back up from rock bottom for Nellie.
While these two both struggled with communicating with one another- the love and the way they loved each other was such a beautiful story. Gus coming to terms with his health and limitations as well as finding a way to let Nellie in and see his vulnerable side. Nellie not only accepting and loving Gus for who he was but seeking him out for comfort and the “I didn’t know where else to go” moment 🥺
Thank you so much to Ambar + team for the eARC for review!
Congrats on the release of The Lies Always Told ✨ available now!!✨
June 24, 2025
If you love angsty, roller coaster love stories, The Lies Always Told is the book for you! Nellie and Gus aren’t looking for a serious relationship but they feel this pull between them that they can’t deny. Their parents are best friends so they decide to keep their relationship a secret as they figure out what they are to each other. They both have secrets and trauma they keep from each other but when they both open up it is so raw and beautiful. These two had their ups and downs but in the end, ended up stronger than ever. Their story was raw, emotional, and beautiful and I can’t wait to read more from this series!
The Lies Always Told | Ambar Cordova | Baker Oaks series book 4 | 6.25.25
✨millionaire
✨hurt/comfort
✨secret relationship
✨small town
✨mental health rep
✨invisible disability/chronic illness rep
Thank you Ambar for the arc!
The Lies Always Told | Ambar Cordova | Baker Oaks series book 4 | 6.25.25
✨millionaire
✨hurt/comfort
✨secret relationship
✨small town
✨mental health rep
✨invisible disability/chronic illness rep
Thank you Ambar for the arc!
July 19, 2025
What a cute book! I really loved Gus and Nellie💜 While I don't think I liked this more than the first book in the series, Ambar Cordova's writing is just addicting. You can easily binge these books because you feel like you've fallen right into the middle of Baker Oaks.
I wasn't in love with the whole plot line at the end of the book, as someone who studied psychology and counseling it was really hard to read. I think while it showed what might go through counselors minds when situations like this happen, it just didn't sit right with me while reading.
Overall, it was a enjoyable read. Ambar Cordova has once again stolen my heart and thrown it in the middle of Baker Oaks 💜
Thank you to Luna Literary Management for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
I wasn't in love with the whole plot line at the end of the book, as someone who studied psychology and counseling it was really hard to read. I think while it showed what might go through counselors minds when situations like this happen, it just didn't sit right with me while reading.
Overall, it was a enjoyable read. Ambar Cordova has once again stolen my heart and thrown it in the middle of Baker Oaks 💜
Thank you to Luna Literary Management for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2025
This book had me in a chokehold. All the feels that came with this book. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again Ambar Cordova has a beautiful way with words. The way she can capture and depict human emotions in just a soul deep way is truly remarkable, incredible, and beyond words I can formulate. I cried so hard during this book like ugly cry. The way Gus and Nellie developed and grew together and on their own throughout this book was magical. I am still processing this book.
Just. Wow. I would 1,000 times recommend!!!!
Just. Wow. I would 1,000 times recommend!!!!
June 27, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.✨
Absolutely gripping. That’s how I felt. The raw real emotions that came with this book 👩🏼🍳💋
Gus, I loved him, I wanted to kick him, I wanted to hug him, and hurt him. I felt every emotion he was going through and then some. He loves deeply in his own way and I think it is important to show there’s no one way to love.
Nellie, you fierce girl. I loved her so much. Her outspoken character, her navigating her own emotions and learning about herself
The nautical references throughout this book was so great to see. As a nautical lover this was cherished. Ambar did a great job explaining Gus’s medical concerns and well as written Nellie’s gifts. I’m in the health care IDD and it was great to see.
I absolutely LOVED the secret relationship. What a fun way to go about it. definitely think this is a trope I need to read more of
Millionaire
Gifted Rep
Reformed Playboy
Mental Health Rep
Hurt/Comfort
Secret Relationship
Neurodivergent Rep
Multicultural
Invisible Disability & Chronic Illness Rep
Thank you Luna & Ambar for the ARC.
Absolutely gripping. That’s how I felt. The raw real emotions that came with this book 👩🏼🍳💋
Gus, I loved him, I wanted to kick him, I wanted to hug him, and hurt him. I felt every emotion he was going through and then some. He loves deeply in his own way and I think it is important to show there’s no one way to love.
Nellie, you fierce girl. I loved her so much. Her outspoken character, her navigating her own emotions and learning about herself
The nautical references throughout this book was so great to see. As a nautical lover this was cherished. Ambar did a great job explaining Gus’s medical concerns and well as written Nellie’s gifts. I’m in the health care IDD and it was great to see.
I absolutely LOVED the secret relationship. What a fun way to go about it. definitely think this is a trope I need to read more of
Millionaire
Gifted Rep
Reformed Playboy
Mental Health Rep
Hurt/Comfort
Secret Relationship
Neurodivergent Rep
Multicultural
Invisible Disability & Chronic Illness Rep
Thank you Luna & Ambar for the ARC.
June 24, 2025
Gus and Nellie have known each other for years, their families are close, and their parents are even friends. So when they cross paths again after some time, old familiarity quickly turns into something more. Sparks fly, and the two find themselves sneaking around, keeping their connection under wraps for personal reasons. What starts as something casual soon gets complicated, with emotional highs and unexpected hurdles. Still, when it matters most, they show up for each other. This is a heartfelt, emotional story but can be heavy at times so be sure to check the trigger warnings before diving in.
Thank you, Ambar Cordova for the ARC.
Thank you, Ambar Cordova for the ARC.
June 27, 2025
The Lies Always Told is an emotional small town romance that will have you captivated from the first page till the very end. Get ready to have your heart broken and pieced back together in this raw and beautiful read. Gus and Nellie story was absolutely incredible and I can’t wait to head back to Baker Oaks!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Lies Always Told is Now Available!
The Lies Always Told is the fourth book the in Baker Oaks Series and please make to read the TW!!
Thank you Ambar and Luna for the ARC
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Lies Always Told is Now Available!
The Lies Always Told is the fourth book the in Baker Oaks Series and please make to read the TW!!
Thank you Ambar and Luna for the ARC
July 1, 2025
This book is sassy, sensitive, sexy, sweet, and savory. It pulls at you often with an array of instances that the world unfortunately faces often.
It’s lustful, it’s romantic & it’s emotional. Need a good summer romance? Pick this one up!
It’s lustful, it’s romantic & it’s emotional. Need a good summer romance? Pick this one up!
June 25, 2025
Ambar did it again! i loved this! its an amazing romance with deep characters that you just have to like🫶🏻
August 7, 2025
Gus was sooooo amazing 🥰🥰🥰 Sweet, rich, unaffected by his wealth, such a sweetheart !
Read
June 25, 2025It’s the way Gus anticipated all of her needs 😮💨
Read
July 20, 2025Hi friend,
This is my favorite thing I've ever written. Gus and Nellie's storie 100% put me through it and their happy ending was so satisfying to write. It didn't come easy though and that's what I'm here to say. This book is angsty, emotional, raw, and messy. It's one of those push and pull stories that will leave you wanting to scream at them and hug them simultaneously.
This is not a rom com so if you're looking for a cutie story, this is not the one. If you're looking for an emotional rollercoaster, with current and very real themes that can be very very relatable but also very triggering (read your warnings).
This book altered my brain chemistry and it has my whole heart.
I really hope it finds your heart too <3
143,
Ambar
This is my favorite thing I've ever written. Gus and Nellie's storie 100% put me through it and their happy ending was so satisfying to write. It didn't come easy though and that's what I'm here to say. This book is angsty, emotional, raw, and messy. It's one of those push and pull stories that will leave you wanting to scream at them and hug them simultaneously.
This is not a rom com so if you're looking for a cutie story, this is not the one. If you're looking for an emotional rollercoaster, with current and very real themes that can be very very relatable but also very triggering (read your warnings).
This book altered my brain chemistry and it has my whole heart.
I really hope it finds your heart too <3
143,
Ambar
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