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Love The Way You Lie
𝗙𝗥𝗢𝗠 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗕𝗘𝗦𝗧𝗦𝗘𝗟𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗔𝗠𝗔𝗭𝗢𝗡 𝗧𝗢𝗣 𝟮𝟬 𝗔𝗨𝗧𝗛𝗢𝗥 𝗘𝗠𝗜𝗟𝗜𝗔 𝗙𝗜𝗡𝗡 𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗘𝗦 𝗔 𝗧𝗪𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗬 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗗𝗔𝗡𝗚𝗘𝗥𝗢𝗨𝗦𝗟𝗬 𝗔𝗗𝗗𝗜𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗩𝗘 𝗥𝗢𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘 𝗪𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘 𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘 𝗜𝗦 𝗟𝗘𝗧𝗛𝗔𝗟, 𝗧𝗥𝗨𝗦𝗧 𝗜𝗦 𝗔 𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗣, 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗢𝗡𝗟𝗬 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗕𝗘𝗦𝗧 𝗟𝗜𝗔𝗥 𝗦𝗨𝗥𝗩𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗦.
Lincoln Castro is a con man with a mission.
Pose as a fallen soldier’s best friend.
Gain the trust of that soldier's grieving sister.
Steal the code he left behind before his death.
She doesn't know the code exists, or that her brother was murdered. And she has no clue Lincoln is behind it all.
This is supposed to be a quick, clean, and easy assignment, but nothing about Nova Nichols is simple.
After surviving the crash that took her brother's life, Nova is barely holding it together. She’s beautifully broken, and the final living member of a shattered family, so the last thing she expects is for a handsome stranger to know all the right words. Or for his touch to feel as good as it does.
Lincoln was trained to manipulate, but Nova makes him want to protect.
To stay. To burn the rulebook… and perhaps her enemies.
Lincoln's time is limited inside Nova's world, and his boss is viciously impatient.
If Lincoln tells Nova the truth, he could lose her forever.
If he stays silent, she may not live long enough to hate him.
𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗪𝗔𝗬 𝗬𝗢𝗨
Lincoln Castro is a con man with a mission.
Pose as a fallen soldier’s best friend.
Gain the trust of that soldier's grieving sister.
Steal the code he left behind before his death.
She doesn't know the code exists, or that her brother was murdered. And she has no clue Lincoln is behind it all.
This is supposed to be a quick, clean, and easy assignment, but nothing about Nova Nichols is simple.
After surviving the crash that took her brother's life, Nova is barely holding it together. She’s beautifully broken, and the final living member of a shattered family, so the last thing she expects is for a handsome stranger to know all the right words. Or for his touch to feel as good as it does.
Lincoln was trained to manipulate, but Nova makes him want to protect.
To stay. To burn the rulebook… and perhaps her enemies.
Lincoln's time is limited inside Nova's world, and his boss is viciously impatient.
If Lincoln tells Nova the truth, he could lose her forever.
If he stays silent, she may not live long enough to hate him.
𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗪𝗔𝗬 𝗬𝗢𝗨
- GenresContemporary Romance
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 3, 2026
About the author
Emilia Finn
113 books1,608 followersEmilia Finn is an Amazon Top 20 bestselling, Australia-based author with more than 55 books written and published to date.
She's a mom, a coffee addict, a collector of quirky coffee mugs, and before she had kids, she was a real-life full-contact fighter.
Her experience on the fight circuits helped her pen her first ever book—Finding Home—featuring a world champion MMA fighter Bobby Kincaid, and his leading lady and equal in every way, Kit Reilly. What was only supposed to be a once off experience instead turned into a career for Emilia, a thriving empire, and a daily grind she never wants to be rescued from.
Join Emilia's mailing list for exclusive material and new release alerts.
Website➜ https://www.emiliafinn.com
She's a mom, a coffee addict, a collector of quirky coffee mugs, and before she had kids, she was a real-life full-contact fighter.
Her experience on the fight circuits helped her pen her first ever book—Finding Home—featuring a world champion MMA fighter Bobby Kincaid, and his leading lady and equal in every way, Kit Reilly. What was only supposed to be a once off experience instead turned into a career for Emilia, a thriving empire, and a daily grind she never wants to be rescued from.
Join Emilia's mailing list for exclusive material and new release alerts.
Website➜ https://www.emiliafinn.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
April 3, 2026
All the Stars and All the Feels!
I’m not going to lie, I think I am officially obsessed with the book. Emilia Finn’s books always seem to suck me in while totally wrecking me along the way and this one totally delivers again. If you’re looking for a new obsession, look no further than this book with its high stakes, high intensity, jaw dropping twists, thrilling storylines, and falling for the villain vibes all while questioning everyone’s mental state, yourself included. Throw in hidden identities, forbidden attraction, and a brother’s best friend romance (… or is he?) and you’ll be totally hooked. Told in first person, dual POV you get a front row seat to what happens when your heart gets involved with your assignment.
This story is set in the safe and homey small town of Mount Gaines, Utah where we meet our lovable and sunshiny FMC, Nova Nichols, and her twin brother Ryan. Ryan is not only Nova’s hero but an American hero as well and he’s all that she has left in the way of family. It’s easy to fall right into the story with them. The sibling banter with Ryan is fun and the love and bond between them is so special. He’s her other half. 🥹 Then the unthinkable happens and Ryan is lost and Nova is facing a new reality. I mean this very first chapter is an absolute gut punch and hits hard but hang on because that emotional roller coaster is just getting started.
Enter Lincoln Castro, our MMC. You should go into this blind for the best reading experience but be prepared to feel ALL the things. Let’s just say that he isn’t who he claims to be and while you think you probably shouldn’t root for him, you can’t help but excuse all of his villainous behaviors. Linc feels irredeemable, dishonorable and unworthy but then he meets Nova and wants to protect her from guys that are well… exactly like him. He also just plain wants her. Nova isn’t looking for someone to invest her time and energy into but whether trauma bond or something else, she wants him right back. Nova and Linc have an inexplicable attraction but Linc tries so hard to do the right thing while doing the wrong thing. This poor guy is so conflicted, but you can’t help but love him. And Nova stresses him to the max which is actually kind of funny and had me giggling. The moment Nova pushes Lincoln too far and he finally claims her? PERFECTION! She may be his undoing but man what an undoing it is (for us anyway).
Emilia Finn’s writing never disappoints. The plot has the exact right amount of mystery and suspense, and it integrates absolutely perfectly with the romance, and the characters’ emotional journeys creating a balanced story that you just can’t stop reading. The twists and turns had me gaping like a fish a time or two. This story is like a puzzle that takes time to build but as the picture takes shape, wow. It doesn’t look at all like you thought and I mean that in the very best of ways.
This is heavy but also honest, hilarious, heartwarming, hopeful and with heat to boot. I think my emotions ran the gamut of the entire emotional spectrum and I couldn’t be happier about that. If you’re a fan of “the girl becomes the villain’s undoing” trope, you’ll love this. This story? Yeah. It gets ALL the stars and then some.
I’m not going to lie, I think I am officially obsessed with the book. Emilia Finn’s books always seem to suck me in while totally wrecking me along the way and this one totally delivers again. If you’re looking for a new obsession, look no further than this book with its high stakes, high intensity, jaw dropping twists, thrilling storylines, and falling for the villain vibes all while questioning everyone’s mental state, yourself included. Throw in hidden identities, forbidden attraction, and a brother’s best friend romance (… or is he?) and you’ll be totally hooked. Told in first person, dual POV you get a front row seat to what happens when your heart gets involved with your assignment.
This story is set in the safe and homey small town of Mount Gaines, Utah where we meet our lovable and sunshiny FMC, Nova Nichols, and her twin brother Ryan. Ryan is not only Nova’s hero but an American hero as well and he’s all that she has left in the way of family. It’s easy to fall right into the story with them. The sibling banter with Ryan is fun and the love and bond between them is so special. He’s her other half. 🥹 Then the unthinkable happens and Ryan is lost and Nova is facing a new reality. I mean this very first chapter is an absolute gut punch and hits hard but hang on because that emotional roller coaster is just getting started.
Enter Lincoln Castro, our MMC. You should go into this blind for the best reading experience but be prepared to feel ALL the things. Let’s just say that he isn’t who he claims to be and while you think you probably shouldn’t root for him, you can’t help but excuse all of his villainous behaviors. Linc feels irredeemable, dishonorable and unworthy but then he meets Nova and wants to protect her from guys that are well… exactly like him. He also just plain wants her. Nova isn’t looking for someone to invest her time and energy into but whether trauma bond or something else, she wants him right back. Nova and Linc have an inexplicable attraction but Linc tries so hard to do the right thing while doing the wrong thing. This poor guy is so conflicted, but you can’t help but love him. And Nova stresses him to the max which is actually kind of funny and had me giggling. The moment Nova pushes Lincoln too far and he finally claims her? PERFECTION! She may be his undoing but man what an undoing it is (for us anyway).
Emilia Finn’s writing never disappoints. The plot has the exact right amount of mystery and suspense, and it integrates absolutely perfectly with the romance, and the characters’ emotional journeys creating a balanced story that you just can’t stop reading. The twists and turns had me gaping like a fish a time or two. This story is like a puzzle that takes time to build but as the picture takes shape, wow. It doesn’t look at all like you thought and I mean that in the very best of ways.
This is heavy but also honest, hilarious, heartwarming, hopeful and with heat to boot. I think my emotions ran the gamut of the entire emotional spectrum and I couldn’t be happier about that. If you’re a fan of “the girl becomes the villain’s undoing” trope, you’ll love this. This story? Yeah. It gets ALL the stars and then some.
April 3, 2026
This spectacular introduction into a new world by Emilia Finn has me hooked and craving book two already! Order now to enjoy Emilia's brilliant writing that you can always expect, but I think she gets even better with every book.
🔥 Strong and Determined Characters? Check! Lincoln and Nova, the MMC and FMC, are passionate about things that are important to them and fiercely protective of people they love. Then Emilia's incredible writing style brings these characters to life and shows how they can also be vulnerable and tender when situations change, especially when facing an uncertain outcome.
❤️ Twist and Turns? Absolutely! Lincoln won me over from the beginning so I had a soft spot for him, even if he was being manipulative towards Nova. I thought I possibly guessed where the story was going, but I was completely wrong. Wow, wow, wow! Then one huge surprise that had me saying "Dang Nova, you smart cookie you!". And don't get me started on Tank, one of the side characters. Woah is all I'll say! This story will keep you on the edge of your seat speculating and the ride is 100% worth it!
🔥 Chemistry and Spice? Yes! Lincoln and Nova's situation is anything but ordinary, but their strong attraction feels almost instant. I cheered for the FMC going after what she wanted and I obsessed over the anticipation leading up to them finally exploring their chemistry further. It is spicy, romantic, hot, and beautiful all rolled into one when they finally give in to each other.
❤️ Is it Emotional? Yes, a rollercoaster in the best way possible! My brother's nickname for me is 'kiddo' so I connected with Nova's nickname early on which brought out all the tears. 🥺 It's not all sad, though, because I laughed, gasped, cheered, and swooned along the way.
🔥 Strong and Determined Characters? Check! Lincoln and Nova, the MMC and FMC, are passionate about things that are important to them and fiercely protective of people they love. Then Emilia's incredible writing style brings these characters to life and shows how they can also be vulnerable and tender when situations change, especially when facing an uncertain outcome.
❤️ Twist and Turns? Absolutely! Lincoln won me over from the beginning so I had a soft spot for him, even if he was being manipulative towards Nova. I thought I possibly guessed where the story was going, but I was completely wrong. Wow, wow, wow! Then one huge surprise that had me saying "Dang Nova, you smart cookie you!". And don't get me started on Tank, one of the side characters. Woah is all I'll say! This story will keep you on the edge of your seat speculating and the ride is 100% worth it!
🔥 Chemistry and Spice? Yes! Lincoln and Nova's situation is anything but ordinary, but their strong attraction feels almost instant. I cheered for the FMC going after what she wanted and I obsessed over the anticipation leading up to them finally exploring their chemistry further. It is spicy, romantic, hot, and beautiful all rolled into one when they finally give in to each other.
❤️ Is it Emotional? Yes, a rollercoaster in the best way possible! My brother's nickname for me is 'kiddo' so I connected with Nova's nickname early on which brought out all the tears. 🥺 It's not all sad, though, because I laughed, gasped, cheered, and swooned along the way.
April 3, 2026
5 stars, 2.5 on the spice scale.
I was so excited for this one. I love Emilia Finn, and this is exactly my kind of romance, so I went in with sky‑high expectations. And look, I’ve given it five stars. Was it a true five star read, especially as I'm usually super critical? Maybe not. But it was everything I wanted it to be and I had a great time reading it!
This kind of story is a tricky balance: a morally grey hero sent to deceive the heroine, but not in a dark‑romance way where he’s actually awful. We know he’s a good man caught up in bad things… but what things, exactly? And why Nova? Emilia Finn keeps those questions simmering and throws in a couple of twists I genuinely didn’t see coming. Of all the books I've read so far from this author, it’s the closest I've come to the energy of Kane’s book, which is high praise from me.
The book opens with a gut‑punch: Nova and her brother are in a car crash, and he dies. At the funeral, none of his army friends show up except Lincoln, who claims to be one of them. Except… he’s not. He’s been sent to retrieve something Nova’s brother supposedly left behind, and a very bad man wants it.
Of course, while trying to win Nova over with the intention of tricking her, he's going to fall for her instead. And when his boss threatens to send someone else to “finish the job”, things escalate fast. While we do get some answers in this book, the bigger picture is still murky. And I love that. It means there’s so much more to uncover in upcoming books.
Is Nova's brother really dead? If he is dead, why was there no military presence at the funeral? Why was Lincoln working for the villain in the first place? And what does this all mean for Lincoln's sister?
This book kept me hooked from start to finish. I loved the characters, I loved the tension, and I loved the sense that we’re only scratching the surface of a much bigger story.
*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title.
I was so excited for this one. I love Emilia Finn, and this is exactly my kind of romance, so I went in with sky‑high expectations. And look, I’ve given it five stars. Was it a true five star read, especially as I'm usually super critical? Maybe not. But it was everything I wanted it to be and I had a great time reading it!
This kind of story is a tricky balance: a morally grey hero sent to deceive the heroine, but not in a dark‑romance way where he’s actually awful. We know he’s a good man caught up in bad things… but what things, exactly? And why Nova? Emilia Finn keeps those questions simmering and throws in a couple of twists I genuinely didn’t see coming. Of all the books I've read so far from this author, it’s the closest I've come to the energy of Kane’s book, which is high praise from me.
The book opens with a gut‑punch: Nova and her brother are in a car crash, and he dies. At the funeral, none of his army friends show up except Lincoln, who claims to be one of them. Except… he’s not. He’s been sent to retrieve something Nova’s brother supposedly left behind, and a very bad man wants it.
Of course, while trying to win Nova over with the intention of tricking her, he's going to fall for her instead. And when his boss threatens to send someone else to “finish the job”, things escalate fast. While we do get some answers in this book, the bigger picture is still murky. And I love that. It means there’s so much more to uncover in upcoming books.
Is Nova's brother really dead? If he is dead, why was there no military presence at the funeral? Why was Lincoln working for the villain in the first place? And what does this all mean for Lincoln's sister?
This book kept me hooked from start to finish. I loved the characters, I loved the tension, and I loved the sense that we’re only scratching the surface of a much bigger story.
*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A love story built on lies shouldn’t work but somehow it does. ✨
Love the Way You Lie follows Nova, navigating life after losing her brother, carrying her grief quietly and alone. Lincoln enters her life on an assignment, getting close to her for reasons she doesn’t know and maybe never should.
What unfolds is a connection built under the worst possible circumstances. And Lincoln? He is the villain…or is he?
The tension, the banter, the shift from something calculated to something real, it all pulled me in completely. Knowing the truth while watching these two people fall made it impossible not to feel conflicted.
I read this in one sitting. The twists, the turns, the surprises! I was hooked the entire time, just waiting for everything to unravel.
What really stayed with me though was Nova’s grief. It was neither overdramatic nor forgotten. It felt quiet, constant and so real. There’s a moment later in the book between her and Lincoln that was heartbreakingly beautiful. What she asks of him, and his response, completely broke my heart for both of them.
Emilia’s writing gives this story its emotional weight. It’s what keeps it grounded and stops it from ever feeling shallow. And while this is a twisty, suspenseful, plot-driven story, at its core, it’s really a story about two people who, despite the lies and deception, come to care deeply for one another. And in the end, dare I say, heal each other.
I shouldn’t have rooted for them…but I’m so glad I did. 🖤
Thank you to Emilia Finn for the ARC ✨
Love the Way You Lie follows Nova, navigating life after losing her brother, carrying her grief quietly and alone. Lincoln enters her life on an assignment, getting close to her for reasons she doesn’t know and maybe never should.
What unfolds is a connection built under the worst possible circumstances. And Lincoln? He is the villain…or is he?
The tension, the banter, the shift from something calculated to something real, it all pulled me in completely. Knowing the truth while watching these two people fall made it impossible not to feel conflicted.
I read this in one sitting. The twists, the turns, the surprises! I was hooked the entire time, just waiting for everything to unravel.
What really stayed with me though was Nova’s grief. It was neither overdramatic nor forgotten. It felt quiet, constant and so real. There’s a moment later in the book between her and Lincoln that was heartbreakingly beautiful. What she asks of him, and his response, completely broke my heart for both of them.
Emilia’s writing gives this story its emotional weight. It’s what keeps it grounded and stops it from ever feeling shallow. And while this is a twisty, suspenseful, plot-driven story, at its core, it’s really a story about two people who, despite the lies and deception, come to care deeply for one another. And in the end, dare I say, heal each other.
I shouldn’t have rooted for them…but I’m so glad I did. 🖤
Thank you to Emilia Finn for the ARC ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
Nova Nichols adores her twin brother Ryan. When she finds herself alone and struggling with grief, she meets Lincoln Castro, former mercenary turned legit who is being blackmailed into finding something Ryan kept hidden. He says he’s a friend of Ryan from his military days, but he’s the bad guy in this situation, even if he doesn’t want to be.
With foreshadowing and plot twists, Emilia Finn takes the classic trope of a con man who falls for his mark and turns it into a swoon worthy love story. I read a lot of books, but I deliberately took my time with this one so that I could savor all the goodness. This book has it all - great chemistry, good character development, a good guy forced to do bad things, a strong female who is a force to be reckoned with, and that Emilia Finn style which hooks me and keeps me coming back for more. Special thanks to the author for the advanced review copy. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
If you’ve never read Emilia Finn’s books before, this is a fantastic way to start reading a new author since this is a brand new series. If you’re already a Finnatic, you will enjoy this one, too, since it’s a new world with no crossover characters (yet?).
With foreshadowing and plot twists, Emilia Finn takes the classic trope of a con man who falls for his mark and turns it into a swoon worthy love story. I read a lot of books, but I deliberately took my time with this one so that I could savor all the goodness. This book has it all - great chemistry, good character development, a good guy forced to do bad things, a strong female who is a force to be reckoned with, and that Emilia Finn style which hooks me and keeps me coming back for more. Special thanks to the author for the advanced review copy. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
If you’ve never read Emilia Finn’s books before, this is a fantastic way to start reading a new author since this is a brand new series. If you’re already a Finnatic, you will enjoy this one, too, since it’s a new world with no crossover characters (yet?).
Review of advance copy
𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐲 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐋𝐢𝐞, the first book in the Beautiful Betrayal series by Emilia Finn, is romantic suspense on a level I’ve never seen! Seriously, Emilia Finn has broken the mold with this one! Lincoln is a con man on a mission, and Nova is his mark, all while grieving the loss of her twin brother after a crash that injured her as well. So many lies helped build a connection for nefarious motives, but it didn’t take long for that connection to feel real. Be ready for a wild ride of betrayal, danger, angst and passion, and mind-blowing plot twists layered upon other plot twists! The amazing characters, raw emotions, banter, and mental gymnastics were deserving of more than 5 stars!! What an exciting way to explore grief, deception, betrayal, redemption, trust, and love in one crazy roller coaster ride! If you’ve never read an EF book, run and grab this one immediately!! If you’re a long-time fan like me, you’ll enjoy picking out the easter eggs she left behind! This is my most surprising read so far this year!! I cannot recommend it hard enough! I cannot wait for the next story in the series!!
Thank you to Emilia Finn for the ARC. My opinions are my own and are freely expressed.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to Emilia Finn for the ARC. My opinions are my own and are freely expressed.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 22, 2026
I had the exciting opportunity to read this as an ARC. This book had me laughing out loud and clutching my heart at the same time. The humor and banter between Nova and Lincoln are constant and draws you in from the beginning. The wittiness and quick sarcasm throughout show how perfect these two are for each from day one, (also, so sorry to the Justin's of the world 🤣). The small-town setting is cozy without feeling cliché, and the story sneaks in multiple twists that genuinely surprised me and only made the story SO MUCH more, AND for those who have previously read Emilia's books, there are some really good callbacks to previous stories which just makes her universe even more incredible! What I loved most was how the romance exists alongside grief. Soft, real, and earned. The characters are a perfect mix of dealing with what's happening (Nova with her grief and Lincoln lying about who he is) while exploring this new relationship that develops despite the odds. This is a fantastic series starter, and I’m already desperate for the next installment!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was extremely excited to win an ARC copy of this book because I knew that Emilia would deliver something to put me in a chokehold. This book definitely took me on a Rollercoaster ride. It started with us getting a very quick intro into the relationship between our heroine and her twin brother. Before we can truly fall in love with their amazing connection he is taken away from her tragically. Enter our MMC who instantly you want to hate for the task that he was assigned to do but at the same time you want to love him because you can tell he has a protectors heart. At times I found myself yelling at Nova for giving TMI but then when you realize why he at comes full circle making for an even more beautiful HEA. I love that Lincoln tried to do his job doing the least amount of damage to himself and Nova but in the end his heart wouldn't allow him not to claim her as his. Getting to learn a little about future characters like Tank and Scarlet made me even more excited for Book 2. Also love that those who truly know her books will know exactly who Tank is referring to.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
My brain is still trying to grasp the absolute web of amazingness that Emilia Finn wove with this story. If you think you have the plot figured out, the tragedies aligned, and know where it is leading, think again. This brilliant masterpiece will have you looking for anwsers you didn't know you needed, and surprising you with twists that will have you closing your kindle upon conclusion TOTALLY BOOK-SMACKED!
Lincoln and Nova are star-crossed in opposite ways, and thrown together for reasons that break your heart. The quick-witted sparring, and endless inuendos about a small-man's umm..problematic character, will have you endlessly laughing. Hold onto your special coin and kindles, because who you fight NOT to fall in love with at the end, is a turn you will never see coming, and awaits us in the next story. Which I will be anxiously counting down the days with baited breath. Love, loss, betrayal, tragedy, and a national treasure- esq plot will have you singing the praises of this book for years to come. Hands down my favorite this year!
Lincoln and Nova are star-crossed in opposite ways, and thrown together for reasons that break your heart. The quick-witted sparring, and endless inuendos about a small-man's umm..problematic character, will have you endlessly laughing. Hold onto your special coin and kindles, because who you fight NOT to fall in love with at the end, is a turn you will never see coming, and awaits us in the next story. Which I will be anxiously counting down the days with baited breath. Love, loss, betrayal, tragedy, and a national treasure- esq plot will have you singing the praises of this book for years to come. Hands down my favorite this year!
April 3, 2026
Small town vibes, big secrets 5⭐
Honestly, for a second there I thought we weren't actually going to get a happy ending. Wow.
If your new to Emilia Finn, this is a brand new series and new people, so there's no chance of feeling lost, and no chance of spoiling her previous books if you decide to go back and start at the beginning.
*Little nod to chapter 8, I see ya*
I always love that Emilia's books can play out like a movie when you read them, it's like you're the little dangly man on Google maps and she just plops you right in the middle of these little worlds she creates.
Linc and Nova are awesome, both smart with great banter and chemistry.
I'm trying to keep this as spoiler free as possible.
There's hard times, lies, laughs, a smidge of smut and a whole lot of secrets.
Don't even try to figure this one out, just enjoy the ride and wait for the next one (you'll want to after that ending 😂)
P.s where can I find a pet rock
Review of advance copy received from Author
Honestly, for a second there I thought we weren't actually going to get a happy ending. Wow.
If your new to Emilia Finn, this is a brand new series and new people, so there's no chance of feeling lost, and no chance of spoiling her previous books if you decide to go back and start at the beginning.
*Little nod to chapter 8, I see ya*
I always love that Emilia's books can play out like a movie when you read them, it's like you're the little dangly man on Google maps and she just plops you right in the middle of these little worlds she creates.
Linc and Nova are awesome, both smart with great banter and chemistry.
I'm trying to keep this as spoiler free as possible.
There's hard times, lies, laughs, a smidge of smut and a whole lot of secrets.
Don't even try to figure this one out, just enjoy the ride and wait for the next one (you'll want to after that ending 😂)
P.s where can I find a pet rock
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 3, 2026
New town, new series, new characters and mad respect for Emilia Finn!
Nova Nichols idolizes her twin brother, Ryan, who is a military baddy. The first chapter hits hard and Nova is now having to deal with grief and life without Ryan. Enter Linc, Ryan’s BFF, or so he says. He moves in next door to Nova and very quickly wins her trust, offering a shoulder to cry on, a friend to lean on. Linc is on a mission he didn’t want but must follow through on. Find the missing “something” that completes a code the real villain wants.
As Nova and Linc grow closer, the plot thickens. The twists and turns and suspense will keep you enthralled. Just when you think you have it figured out, more twists and turns.
To be in the head of Emilia Finn while she wrote this. Just wow! Her brilliance shines bright with this new series, Beautiful Betrayal. It is unlike any others before. If you haven’t read Emilia Finn before, you can start here and not miss anything. If you want to start at the beginning of her interconnected series, start with the Rolling On series.
Nova Nichols idolizes her twin brother, Ryan, who is a military baddy. The first chapter hits hard and Nova is now having to deal with grief and life without Ryan. Enter Linc, Ryan’s BFF, or so he says. He moves in next door to Nova and very quickly wins her trust, offering a shoulder to cry on, a friend to lean on. Linc is on a mission he didn’t want but must follow through on. Find the missing “something” that completes a code the real villain wants.
As Nova and Linc grow closer, the plot thickens. The twists and turns and suspense will keep you enthralled. Just when you think you have it figured out, more twists and turns.
To be in the head of Emilia Finn while she wrote this. Just wow! Her brilliance shines bright with this new series, Beautiful Betrayal. It is unlike any others before. If you haven’t read Emilia Finn before, you can start here and not miss anything. If you want to start at the beginning of her interconnected series, start with the Rolling On series.
April 3, 2026
Once again the brilliant, beautiful mind of Emilia Finn brought us an amazing story. Emilia is one of my all time favorites and the author for me that can never write anything bad, everything she creates captivates me and always leaves me wanting more. Lincoln and Novas story had my attention from the first chapter. The sadness I felt in the first chapter sucked me in so deep.
I absolutely loved the chemistry and quick banter from Lincoln and Nova. Nova is such a strong badass woman, she’s one of my all time favorite female leads. Lincoln’s internal dialogue kept me from hating him. I love how hard he didn’t want to be the bad guy. The two of them together are perfection.
The ending shocked me in the absolute best way. Tank is now someone I am incredibly curious about, and I cannot wait for his book! I love the ones we are supposed to hate 🤣 I am so grateful to be given the change to get an ARC copy of this book. Emilia is a queen among authors.
I absolutely loved the chemistry and quick banter from Lincoln and Nova. Nova is such a strong badass woman, she’s one of my all time favorite female leads. Lincoln’s internal dialogue kept me from hating him. I love how hard he didn’t want to be the bad guy. The two of them together are perfection.
The ending shocked me in the absolute best way. Tank is now someone I am incredibly curious about, and I cannot wait for his book! I love the ones we are supposed to hate 🤣 I am so grateful to be given the change to get an ARC copy of this book. Emilia is a queen among authors.
April 12, 2026
I received an ARC of this book and really loved it.
The story pulls you in right away with Nova and her brother, and their relationship makes everything feel more emotional from the start. When Lincoln is introduced, I was immediately hooked. He’s very morally gray and clearly hiding things, which makes his dynamic with Nova intense right away.
The tension between them is strong from the beginning and only builds as the story goes on. I also loved that Nova is a strong character who can hold her own. Their chemistry isn’t just there for the sake of it—it’s layered with emotion, conflict, and higher stakes, which made it hard to put down.
There’s also just enough suspense and twists to keep things interesting throughout.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable read. If you like a protective, morally gray male lead and a strong female main character with real chemistry, you’ll definitely enjoy this one.
The story pulls you in right away with Nova and her brother, and their relationship makes everything feel more emotional from the start. When Lincoln is introduced, I was immediately hooked. He’s very morally gray and clearly hiding things, which makes his dynamic with Nova intense right away.
The tension between them is strong from the beginning and only builds as the story goes on. I also loved that Nova is a strong character who can hold her own. Their chemistry isn’t just there for the sake of it—it’s layered with emotion, conflict, and higher stakes, which made it hard to put down.
There’s also just enough suspense and twists to keep things interesting throughout.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable read. If you like a protective, morally gray male lead and a strong female main character with real chemistry, you’ll definitely enjoy this one.
April 13, 2026
5⭐️ 2🌶️ - An epic wild ride of deception and feels!
This book was SO GOOD! Chapter one had me sufficiently wrecked and reeled in. I thought I had shit figured out when in reality I was in the middle of an intricately woven web I did not see coming.
The plot, the twists, emotions and LAYERS… and of course Nova and Lincoln tangled relationship I am forever obsessed with. I’m going to need to let this book simmer in my brain a few days before reading anything else because I am not ready to move on from Lincoln and Nova.
If you like a damn good plot, suspense, twists, characters you won’t stop thinking about, FEELS, exceptional banter + chemistry and a wild ride of deception, then do yourself a favor and read this. It can be read as a complete standalone!!
Tropes:
🖤 Falling for the villain
🖤 High stakes, high intensity
🖤 Jaw dropping twists
🖤 Mental f*ckery
🖤 Brother's best friend... or is he?
🖤 Hidden Identities
🖤 Forbidden attraction
🖤 Small town
🖤 First person, dual pov
This book was SO GOOD! Chapter one had me sufficiently wrecked and reeled in. I thought I had shit figured out when in reality I was in the middle of an intricately woven web I did not see coming.
The plot, the twists, emotions and LAYERS… and of course Nova and Lincoln tangled relationship I am forever obsessed with. I’m going to need to let this book simmer in my brain a few days before reading anything else because I am not ready to move on from Lincoln and Nova.
If you like a damn good plot, suspense, twists, characters you won’t stop thinking about, FEELS, exceptional banter + chemistry and a wild ride of deception, then do yourself a favor and read this. It can be read as a complete standalone!!
Tropes:
🖤 Falling for the villain
🖤 High stakes, high intensity
🖤 Jaw dropping twists
🖤 Mental f*ckery
🖤 Brother's best friend... or is he?
🖤 Hidden Identities
🖤 Forbidden attraction
🖤 Small town
🖤 First person, dual pov
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love The Way You Lie
This was such a great romantic suspense! It starts you off with all the feels. Nova unexpectedly loses her brother and is grieving his death when she meets Lincoln. Although his intentions aren’t honest in the beginning, he is a character who I really enjoyed reading. He fits into the vibe of “he kills people but he’s not a bad guy”. (We all know that clip).
Lincoln and Nova are so perfect for each other. Her quirkiness and his more serious demeanor mesh so well. She can joke and push his buttons with her lack of filter and he is the most honest, dishonest man you will meet. The twists in this book kept me on my toes and that epilogue 🥰. I can’t wait for the rest of this new series!!
🖤 He Falls First
💚 Brother’s Best Friend…
🖤 Forbidden Romance
💚 Secrets/Deception
🖤 Morally Grey
💚 Small Town
This was such a great romantic suspense! It starts you off with all the feels. Nova unexpectedly loses her brother and is grieving his death when she meets Lincoln. Although his intentions aren’t honest in the beginning, he is a character who I really enjoyed reading. He fits into the vibe of “he kills people but he’s not a bad guy”. (We all know that clip).
Lincoln and Nova are so perfect for each other. Her quirkiness and his more serious demeanor mesh so well. She can joke and push his buttons with her lack of filter and he is the most honest, dishonest man you will meet. The twists in this book kept me on my toes and that epilogue 🥰. I can’t wait for the rest of this new series!!
🖤 He Falls First
💚 Brother’s Best Friend…
🖤 Forbidden Romance
💚 Secrets/Deception
🖤 Morally Grey
💚 Small Town
April 18, 2026
I wanted to love this book just like I love the Mayet Justice series from this author, but this book wasn't for me. I enjoyed Nova's stregnth and her personality and you can tell Lincoln doesn't want to do what he's sent to do, but I didn't feel fully invested in their relationship. While the banter was nice, there was a repetitive penis joke regarding a former lover that old quickly. It just didn't grab me and have me yearning for more. Nova's friend who is there in the biggining for Nova dissapears and we don't see or hear from her again, which I thought was odd, unless I missed something. There are some twsists at the end of the story (most are predicatble) and the ending sets up for the next book with Lincoln's sister. Though I didn't enjoy this read, I'm still looking forward to more books from Emilia Finn.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love the Way You Write!
Emilia was nervous how we'd accept this book, since it is so different from her others... she didn't need to be! Love the Way You Lie is sooo good! I don't know how she kept all the twists and turns straight in her own head to write this, but she made it so good. The perfect amount of suspense, and the best resist-to-fall efforts I've seen on a MMC's part! Anyone who has lost anyone important to them will be able to relate to Nova's grief, as it is portrayed so, so well. And Lincoln... oh how we were *supposed* to not like him, right? The bad guy, with a heart.... he's the perfect villain for this book, and he is so good. I loved this book so much! And cannot wait for the next in the series, I know there are so many more twists and turns waiting for us!
Emilia was nervous how we'd accept this book, since it is so different from her others... she didn't need to be! Love the Way You Lie is sooo good! I don't know how she kept all the twists and turns straight in her own head to write this, but she made it so good. The perfect amount of suspense, and the best resist-to-fall efforts I've seen on a MMC's part! Anyone who has lost anyone important to them will be able to relate to Nova's grief, as it is portrayed so, so well. And Lincoln... oh how we were *supposed* to not like him, right? The bad guy, with a heart.... he's the perfect villain for this book, and he is so good. I loved this book so much! And cannot wait for the next in the series, I know there are so many more twists and turns waiting for us!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Do you hear that? That's the ball being knocked out of the park... again. It doesn't matter if we're in Roller Town, Copeland City, or this brand new small town, Emilia Finn crafts a world I don't ever want to leave. The chemistry between Lincoln Castro and Nova Nichols jumps off the page from the moment they meet. Lincoln has been sent to get something from Nova, only he doesn't know what the item is he has to find. Nova is deep in mourning for her brother not realizing the man she just met represents the people who took her brother away from her. The twists kept me on my toes and Nova and Lincoln's entertaining banter had me wishing I was living right next door.
"Mine. For the rest of our lives, she's mine. Now I'm hers. Her protector. Her devotee."
"Mine. For the rest of our lives, she's mine. Now I'm hers. Her protector. Her devotee."
April 3, 2026
Holy moly Batman!! I feel like I say this all the time when I talk about this authors books, but after having read soooooo many books - she still is one of the very very few authors that can pull an emotional response out of me. Dang it all she had me crying in the first chapter again! One of her many talents.
Nova and Linc, what a pair! I’m always nervous diving into a new world because what if I hate it? What if it doesn’t hook me? Never a worry with this lady. This pairing reminds me of Jess and Kane or even the OG couple Kit and Bobby.
If you’re a fan of this author- do not sit on this one. Jump in with both feet! And if you’re new to her work, settle in because you will end up having to read everything she’s ever written. She’s just that good.
Nova and Linc, what a pair! I’m always nervous diving into a new world because what if I hate it? What if it doesn’t hook me? Never a worry with this lady. This pairing reminds me of Jess and Kane or even the OG couple Kit and Bobby.
If you’re a fan of this author- do not sit on this one. Jump in with both feet! And if you’re new to her work, settle in because you will end up having to read everything she’s ever written. She’s just that good.
April 7, 2026
I absolutely loved this book. As someone who reads over 130 books per year, it’s pretty rare for a book to surprise me-but this one did. The twists and turns kept me hooked the entire time, and I honestly did not see that ending coming at all.
The relationship between the main characters was another standout. The chemistry between the MMC and the FMC was intense and felt really well developed, which made their dynamic even more engaging to read. Their connection added so much depth to the story and made it hard to put down.
If you’re looking for a romance that keeps you guessing and delivers something a little different, I highly recommend this one.
I’m already looking forward to the next book!
The relationship between the main characters was another standout. The chemistry between the MMC and the FMC was intense and felt really well developed, which made their dynamic even more engaging to read. Their connection added so much depth to the story and made it hard to put down.
If you’re looking for a romance that keeps you guessing and delivers something a little different, I highly recommend this one.
I’m already looking forward to the next book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
love this book and I just want to ramble on and on about it, but I don't want to give anything away!
Nova has just buried her brother after a tragic accident.
Linc has been sent to retrieve something her brother left behind.
Although no one knows exactly what it is he left, just that it is vitally important.
If Linc can't find it Nova will be in grave danger.
It's a game of cat and mouse, of seduction and betrayal, of hide and seek.
Except. I realize I knew nothing all along.
Dive into this and just go for the ride and know that you know nothing.
What a great read! It was fantastic and I was genuinely sad when it was over because I was having such a good time.
Nova has just buried her brother after a tragic accident.
Linc has been sent to retrieve something her brother left behind.
Although no one knows exactly what it is he left, just that it is vitally important.
If Linc can't find it Nova will be in grave danger.
It's a game of cat and mouse, of seduction and betrayal, of hide and seek.
Except. I realize I knew nothing all along.
Dive into this and just go for the ride and know that you know nothing.
What a great read! It was fantastic and I was genuinely sad when it was over because I was having such a good time.
April 3, 2026
When I say I was STUCK on this book. I was incredibly locked in to the story and the characters, which is honestly the norm with any book I've read from this author. How this author can write such fresh plots every time is amazing.
Not one is the same!
Lincoln and Nova... phew. I truly enjoyed
them. There's a twisty twist that had me blinking and blunking with my jaw DROPPPPPPED.
Ryan might be gone, but was very much still apart of the story. It was nice to learn more about him as things went on. Nova is such a strong woman and I would like to think Ryan would approve of Linc (maybe…eventually lol)
Not one is the same!
Lincoln and Nova... phew. I truly enjoyed
them. There's a twisty twist that had me blinking and blunking with my jaw DROPPPPPPED.
Ryan might be gone, but was very much still apart of the story. It was nice to learn more about him as things went on. Nova is such a strong woman and I would like to think Ryan would approve of Linc (maybe…eventually lol)
April 3, 2026
ARC review:
Went in blind and Emilia never disappoints. I wasn’t really sure what to expect and the way things played out was so unexpected. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 Emilia always writes really smart and badass FMCs and Nova was no different. Her grief in the beginning was unimaginable and the twists in the second half of the book had me 😳. I really enjoyed her banter with Lincoln. Her quest to provoke him seemed a bit out of character though for someone in mourning but her behavior makes a lot more sense as we got more answers in the second half. I was also pleasantly surprised by Tank and def looking forward to his book next.
Went in blind and Emilia never disappoints. I wasn’t really sure what to expect and the way things played out was so unexpected. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 Emilia always writes really smart and badass FMCs and Nova was no different. Her grief in the beginning was unimaginable and the twists in the second half of the book had me 😳. I really enjoyed her banter with Lincoln. Her quest to provoke him seemed a bit out of character though for someone in mourning but her behavior makes a lot more sense as we got more answers in the second half. I was also pleasantly surprised by Tank and def looking forward to his book next.
April 5, 2026
LOVE, LOVE, LOVED THIS BOOK !
I know you don’t know me BUT If you’re reading this review then you have to trust me as a prolific reader that I know what I’m talking about !! Emilia Finn is a master at storytelling. She has 65+ books with over 6 series which most of them have crossover so your previously loved characters you’ll see again , even if only an Easter egg 😉 just trust her process !! Now as for Love the way you lie , what can I say……ITS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING !! Lincoln and Nova’s story was perfection! I couldn’t put it down and like every other book of Emilia Finn’s it’s a 5 star squared !! A MUST READ !!
I know you don’t know me BUT If you’re reading this review then you have to trust me as a prolific reader that I know what I’m talking about !! Emilia Finn is a master at storytelling. She has 65+ books with over 6 series which most of them have crossover so your previously loved characters you’ll see again , even if only an Easter egg 😉 just trust her process !! Now as for Love the way you lie , what can I say……ITS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING !! Lincoln and Nova’s story was perfection! I couldn’t put it down and like every other book of Emilia Finn’s it’s a 5 star squared !! A MUST READ !!
April 6, 2026
Loved every minute ❤️
I feel like a broken record saying this, but wow… Emilia has done it again. I never go into one of her books worried—I know I’m going to love it—but this one completely blew me away.
I fell so hard for these new characters. Lincoln and Nova were everything—raw, real, and unforgettable. The story took me from complete heartbreak to edge-of-my-seat suspense, and by the end I was like, “oh my gosh, I NEED the next one right now.”
She kept me hooked until the very last page, and somehow still left me wanting more. Absolutely incredible.
Bravo, Emilia 👏 You’re seriously amazing at what you do, and I’m so grateful I get to experience every word.
I feel like a broken record saying this, but wow… Emilia has done it again. I never go into one of her books worried—I know I’m going to love it—but this one completely blew me away.
I fell so hard for these new characters. Lincoln and Nova were everything—raw, real, and unforgettable. The story took me from complete heartbreak to edge-of-my-seat suspense, and by the end I was like, “oh my gosh, I NEED the next one right now.”
She kept me hooked until the very last page, and somehow still left me wanting more. Absolutely incredible.
Bravo, Emilia 👏 You’re seriously amazing at what you do, and I’m so grateful I get to experience every word.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Linc and Nova are absolute perfection! This story is exactly what I love about romantic suspense. The plot twists are unpredictable but at the same time are completely believable. You’ll experience an entire array of emotions that are so beautifully written that you’ll feel them for yourself. The story will suck you in and keep you enthralled because there aren’t any unnecessary fillers. Emilia’s books only keep getting better the more she writes (which is tough to do since even her first ones are fantastic) and this is why she still remains my favorite author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky to get an Advanced Readers Copy of Love The Way You Lie. This is the first book in Emilia Finn’s newest series. From the first chapter there is heartbreak and it gripped me right away. This book had me crying, laughing out load and gasping at the multiple plot twists. There is romance, suspense and comedy in this book. You can’t help but fall in love with Nova and Lincoln. I’m looking forward to the next book in these series. You can’t help never go wrong with one of Emilia’s books.
April 3, 2026
This is the first book in the Beautiful Betrayal series. I absolutely loved it! Nova Nichols suffers a tragedy & Lincoln Castro moves to Mount Gaines to insert himself into Nova’s life. As we watch Nova grieve, other events are happening behind the scenes. The first half is a slower pace but wow! I was then completely caught up in the suspense elements, fast pace, reveals, and deadly action. I don’t want to add any spoilers—I loved the shift & how the author drew the elements together. Looking forward to learning about another side to the pet rock.
April 3, 2026
Female Main Character: Nova Nichols
Male Main Character: Lincoln Castro
Location: Mount Gaines. Small Town
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 Stars
🔥🔥🔥🔥/5 Heat
🖋️🖋️🖋️🖋️🖋️/5 Plot
What happens when you fall for the Villain, but you don't know he's the villain in your story? Will your heart survive the betrayal? Will it survive both the death of your brother, AND the manipulation, the lies, told to you by a stranger who claims to just want to help?
This novel was full of twisty turns, and I don't intend on spoiling them. 😏 You need to read it to find out, but, I do promise it's worth the ride.
Male Main Character: Lincoln Castro
Location: Mount Gaines. Small Town
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 Stars
🔥🔥🔥🔥/5 Heat
🖋️🖋️🖋️🖋️🖋️/5 Plot
What happens when you fall for the Villain, but you don't know he's the villain in your story? Will your heart survive the betrayal? Will it survive both the death of your brother, AND the manipulation, the lies, told to you by a stranger who claims to just want to help?
This novel was full of twisty turns, and I don't intend on spoiling them. 😏 You need to read it to find out, but, I do promise it's worth the ride.
April 4, 2026
Let me say that Emilia knows how to get my heart and anxiety racing. My goodness, I couldn’t breathe for a second and that was just in the beginning of the book.
There was just so much happening that there was not a single chance to be bored. I loved Nova and Lincoln, even though I hated the reason he came into her life. I also loved Tank in the end which is hard to admit considering what he did. The twists in the story really keep you wanting more.
One of my favorite moments was Nova comparing Tank to an angry rock— made me laugh out loud.
Thank you to Emilia Finn for the ARC :)
There was just so much happening that there was not a single chance to be bored. I loved Nova and Lincoln, even though I hated the reason he came into her life. I also loved Tank in the end which is hard to admit considering what he did. The twists in the story really keep you wanting more.
One of my favorite moments was Nova comparing Tank to an angry rock— made me laugh out loud.
Thank you to Emilia Finn for the ARC :)
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