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Ring of Lies
When accountant Daniel Elliott dies in a car accident, his widow, Grace, is overcome with grief...and panic. Daniel was controlling and their marriage loveless, but he always took care of her. Or so she thought.Grace soon discovers Daniel kept secrets: an alias, mob ties, a list of numbers, a mysterious beach house in Florida....and a girlfriend who looks like Grace. Swallowing her fear, she flies to Miami to claim the house Daniel left her. But the price of her curiosity is peril. Underworld figures stalk her. And handsome, troubled FBI agent Jack West has crossed precarious paths with Grace before. With little to go on and danger at every turn, Grace must depend on Jack to help her navigate the criminal world of south Florida, and find the truth behind the Ring of Lies.
8 pages, Audible Audio
First published November 11, 2010
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355 people want to read
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June 25, 2024
Review from 2018
I've given this a C+ for narration and a C for content at AudioGals.
I’ll admit that I picked up Ring of Lies mainly because it’s narrated by Michelle Ford, someone whose work I’ve listened to and enjoyed on several occasions. The story synopsis tells of a woman who, after the death of her husband, gradually discovers that he wasn’t the man she’d believed him to be – not an uncommon plotline, but one with potential for plenty of drama and twists if handled well. Unfortunately, however, that isn’t the case here; the plot is thoroughly predictable, the pacing is pedestrian and I’d figured out probably the most important piece of information within the first hour, while it took the hero and his FBI buddies almost the entirety of the book’s eight-and-a-half-hour running time to do the same.
Grace and Daniel Elliott had their ups and downs throughout their ten-year-marriage, just like other couples, and when Daniel is killed in a car crash, Grace is devastated. In the days leading up to his funeral, Grace has tried desperately to get in touch with her sister Catherine, her only living relative, to let her know what’s happened, but Catherine is not answering her phone and doesn’t return Grace’s calls. Worried about her sister as well as grieving for her husband, Grace is exhausted by the day of the funeral, noticing little other than the fairly small gathering and a man she doesn’t recognise standing on the peripheries. When the ceremony comes to an end, the last thing she expects is for the man to grab her and demand she turns over the computer files Daniel kept for him and to imply that Daniel was involved in something sinister. Confused and somewhat afraid, Grace tells him she has no idea what he’s talking about and, after a cryptic comment about Catherine, he leaves.
There are more shocks in store for Grace when she visits their solicitor to discover the contents of Daniel’s will. They’ve never been well-off; their house is mortgaged, Grace’s car is several years old, and they have to budget carefully – so she is astonished to discover that Daniel had recently purchased a house on Gasparilla Island in Florida and that he has left it to her. Unable to quite take it in and wondering how on earth Daniel had been able to afford such a thing, she returns home where she receives the last of Daniel’s personal effects, the now battered briefcase she’d given him years earlier. There’s nothing of particular interest in it – only some work files – until she notices that there’s something underneath the lining and unearths a passport and a piece of paper with a string of numbers written on it… and while the passport has her husband’s photograph in it, it’s not in the name of Daniel Elliott, but that of Lionel Lattide – whom she’s never heard of.
Grace needs answers, and fortunately, she knows someone who can help her to get them. Six months earlier, she had met Jack West, an FBI agent who was temporarily attached to the US Embassy in London. They met at Wimbledon where they had seats next to each other for a week of the tournament and ended up spending quite a lot of time together – but even though they were strongly attracted to each other, things never went further between them than friendship. Grace calls Jack at his home in Florida to ask for his help and even though he’s in the midst of a tricky personal situation, he agrees to meet her flight and see what can be done.
The story unfolds fairly predictably as Jack and Grace work together to uncover the truth about Daniel and his double life as the attraction between them blossoms. Grace is surprised when Daniel’s American attorney indicates they’ve met before and then is even more puzzled when, on arrival on the island one of the locals refers to her as Mrs. Lattide. Grace puts the question from her mind, but once she and Jack arrive at the house, and she’s confronted with a wardrobe full of women’s clothes, she can no longer deny that Daniel must have been having an affair – or that their life together had been a lie.
Ring of Lies is the sort of run-of-the-mill romantic thriller I suspect we’ve all read/listened to/watched on TV several times before. The listener is several steps ahead of the characters pretty much from the start, and the already ambling pace is further slowed at various points by the inclusion of a few chapters from the villains’ points of view, in which we’re given superfluous background information about them. Jack’s personal situation – his former girlfriend Rosa has recently had their baby and shows no interest in her whatsoever while Jack is working hard to do the right thing and make a home for them – is the most unusual and potentially interesting aspect of the story, but it falls down courtesy of the rather stereotypical presentation of Rosa as a selfish, heartless bitch who only went through with the pregnancy in the hope of getting Jack to marry her. I also wasn’t wild about the fact that Grace finds out about the baby and assumes Jack is married – but she doesn’t confront him about it, and is quite happy to engage in some heated kisses while she is under this impression – although by the time of the book’s single sex scene, he’s cleared things up and there’s no actual cheating going on.
The secondary characters – especially Jack’s boss – are broadly drawn but likeable, and Jack makes an engaging – if stereotypical – hero, but Grace is a bit of a wimp. She has panic attacks at the drop of a hat (and the most inconvenient moments) and for a woman of thirty-two, is incredibly naïve and rather dim. That she fails to see what’s staring her in the face regarding the identity of “Mrs. Lattide” is annoying, but the fact that everyone else is wearing the same blinkers is completely ridiculous – don’t FBI agents have to be clever and pass tests and that sort of thing?
I said at the outset that I picked up Ring of Lies mostly because of Michelle Ford’s involvement. She’s an accomplished and experienced narrator and I’ve rated her performances highly in the past, but I’m afraid I can’t do so this time. While Grace is British (as is Catherine) the bulk of the story takes place in Florida and most of the characters are American or Hispanic – and though Ms. Ford doesn’t have any problems with giving the Hispanic characters an appropriate accent, it’s clear that a standard American accent is not her forté. She reads the narrative in her native British accent, and obviously performs Grace, Catherine and other Brits using it, but Jack and his various colleagues have a lot of dialogue, and I’m sorry to say their accents sound really fake. I have yet to hear an American accent as atrocious as the one used by Anna Parker Naples in The Royal Conquest and I hasten to add that Ms. Ford’s is nowhere near that bad. But still, if it was difficult for me to hear, I can imagine it would be even moreso for those of you who are stateside. Pacing in narrative and dialogue is fine, and Ms. Ford’s character differentiation is generally good; she doesn’t use much variation in pitch to perform the male characters, but she manages to make them sound suitably masculine, and apart from the dodgy accent, Jack sounds like the honourable, attractive hero he is.
But it’s not enough to turn Ring of Lies into an audiobook I can recommend.
I've given this a C+ for narration and a C for content at AudioGals.
I’ll admit that I picked up Ring of Lies mainly because it’s narrated by Michelle Ford, someone whose work I’ve listened to and enjoyed on several occasions. The story synopsis tells of a woman who, after the death of her husband, gradually discovers that he wasn’t the man she’d believed him to be – not an uncommon plotline, but one with potential for plenty of drama and twists if handled well. Unfortunately, however, that isn’t the case here; the plot is thoroughly predictable, the pacing is pedestrian and I’d figured out probably the most important piece of information within the first hour, while it took the hero and his FBI buddies almost the entirety of the book’s eight-and-a-half-hour running time to do the same.
Grace and Daniel Elliott had their ups and downs throughout their ten-year-marriage, just like other couples, and when Daniel is killed in a car crash, Grace is devastated. In the days leading up to his funeral, Grace has tried desperately to get in touch with her sister Catherine, her only living relative, to let her know what’s happened, but Catherine is not answering her phone and doesn’t return Grace’s calls. Worried about her sister as well as grieving for her husband, Grace is exhausted by the day of the funeral, noticing little other than the fairly small gathering and a man she doesn’t recognise standing on the peripheries. When the ceremony comes to an end, the last thing she expects is for the man to grab her and demand she turns over the computer files Daniel kept for him and to imply that Daniel was involved in something sinister. Confused and somewhat afraid, Grace tells him she has no idea what he’s talking about and, after a cryptic comment about Catherine, he leaves.
There are more shocks in store for Grace when she visits their solicitor to discover the contents of Daniel’s will. They’ve never been well-off; their house is mortgaged, Grace’s car is several years old, and they have to budget carefully – so she is astonished to discover that Daniel had recently purchased a house on Gasparilla Island in Florida and that he has left it to her. Unable to quite take it in and wondering how on earth Daniel had been able to afford such a thing, she returns home where she receives the last of Daniel’s personal effects, the now battered briefcase she’d given him years earlier. There’s nothing of particular interest in it – only some work files – until she notices that there’s something underneath the lining and unearths a passport and a piece of paper with a string of numbers written on it… and while the passport has her husband’s photograph in it, it’s not in the name of Daniel Elliott, but that of Lionel Lattide – whom she’s never heard of.
Grace needs answers, and fortunately, she knows someone who can help her to get them. Six months earlier, she had met Jack West, an FBI agent who was temporarily attached to the US Embassy in London. They met at Wimbledon where they had seats next to each other for a week of the tournament and ended up spending quite a lot of time together – but even though they were strongly attracted to each other, things never went further between them than friendship. Grace calls Jack at his home in Florida to ask for his help and even though he’s in the midst of a tricky personal situation, he agrees to meet her flight and see what can be done.
The story unfolds fairly predictably as Jack and Grace work together to uncover the truth about Daniel and his double life as the attraction between them blossoms. Grace is surprised when Daniel’s American attorney indicates they’ve met before and then is even more puzzled when, on arrival on the island one of the locals refers to her as Mrs. Lattide. Grace puts the question from her mind, but once she and Jack arrive at the house, and she’s confronted with a wardrobe full of women’s clothes, she can no longer deny that Daniel must have been having an affair – or that their life together had been a lie.
Ring of Lies is the sort of run-of-the-mill romantic thriller I suspect we’ve all read/listened to/watched on TV several times before. The listener is several steps ahead of the characters pretty much from the start, and the already ambling pace is further slowed at various points by the inclusion of a few chapters from the villains’ points of view, in which we’re given superfluous background information about them. Jack’s personal situation – his former girlfriend Rosa has recently had their baby and shows no interest in her whatsoever while Jack is working hard to do the right thing and make a home for them – is the most unusual and potentially interesting aspect of the story, but it falls down courtesy of the rather stereotypical presentation of Rosa as a selfish, heartless bitch who only went through with the pregnancy in the hope of getting Jack to marry her. I also wasn’t wild about the fact that Grace finds out about the baby and assumes Jack is married – but she doesn’t confront him about it, and is quite happy to engage in some heated kisses while she is under this impression – although by the time of the book’s single sex scene, he’s cleared things up and there’s no actual cheating going on.
The secondary characters – especially Jack’s boss – are broadly drawn but likeable, and Jack makes an engaging – if stereotypical – hero, but Grace is a bit of a wimp. She has panic attacks at the drop of a hat (and the most inconvenient moments) and for a woman of thirty-two, is incredibly naïve and rather dim. That she fails to see what’s staring her in the face regarding the identity of “Mrs. Lattide” is annoying, but the fact that everyone else is wearing the same blinkers is completely ridiculous – don’t FBI agents have to be clever and pass tests and that sort of thing?
I said at the outset that I picked up Ring of Lies mostly because of Michelle Ford’s involvement. She’s an accomplished and experienced narrator and I’ve rated her performances highly in the past, but I’m afraid I can’t do so this time. While Grace is British (as is Catherine) the bulk of the story takes place in Florida and most of the characters are American or Hispanic – and though Ms. Ford doesn’t have any problems with giving the Hispanic characters an appropriate accent, it’s clear that a standard American accent is not her forté. She reads the narrative in her native British accent, and obviously performs Grace, Catherine and other Brits using it, but Jack and his various colleagues have a lot of dialogue, and I’m sorry to say their accents sound really fake. I have yet to hear an American accent as atrocious as the one used by Anna Parker Naples in The Royal Conquest and I hasten to add that Ms. Ford’s is nowhere near that bad. But still, if it was difficult for me to hear, I can imagine it would be even moreso for those of you who are stateside. Pacing in narrative and dialogue is fine, and Ms. Ford’s character differentiation is generally good; she doesn’t use much variation in pitch to perform the male characters, but she manages to make them sound suitably masculine, and apart from the dodgy accent, Jack sounds like the honourable, attractive hero he is.
But it’s not enough to turn Ring of Lies into an audiobook I can recommend.
August 13, 2024
OVERALL: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
PERFORMANCE: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
STORY: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A well paced suspense with a romantic aside
The narrator did an excellent job with the many accents and switches between male and female vocals.
The story starts with a husband who dies suddenly and whose widow finds herself caught in a complex web of lies and deceit. Did she ever know her husband at all? Did he ever love her? And then there’s the other woman. While I sussed her identity early on it remained fun listening to the characters getting there.
Lots of players and personalities in this easy yet fun listen.
Many thanks for this free audible copy of this wonderful audiobook, which I recommend highly!
PERFORMANCE: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
STORY: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A well paced suspense with a romantic aside
The narrator did an excellent job with the many accents and switches between male and female vocals.
The story starts with a husband who dies suddenly and whose widow finds herself caught in a complex web of lies and deceit. Did she ever know her husband at all? Did he ever love her? And then there’s the other woman. While I sussed her identity early on it remained fun listening to the characters getting there.
Lots of players and personalities in this easy yet fun listen.
Many thanks for this free audible copy of this wonderful audiobook, which I recommend highly!
November 4, 2020
Que livro maravilhoso. Um conjunto de suspense, ação, segredos não revelados...
Grace, protagonista da história, fica boquiaberta ao saber que o falecido marido não era quem ela pensava que fosse. Junto com Jack, um grande amigo e FBI, Grace corre muitos perigos, pois ela está disposta a descobrir toda a verdade que, até certo momento, estava encoberta.
Super recomendo este livro.
E aí, quais segredos Daniel, ex-marido da Grace, escondia???
Vale destacar que ele tinha uma amante. Quem seria esta mulher?
Grace, protagonista da história, fica boquiaberta ao saber que o falecido marido não era quem ela pensava que fosse. Junto com Jack, um grande amigo e FBI, Grace corre muitos perigos, pois ela está disposta a descobrir toda a verdade que, até certo momento, estava encoberta.
Super recomendo este livro.
E aí, quais segredos Daniel, ex-marido da Grace, escondia???
Vale destacar que ele tinha uma amante. Quem seria esta mulher?
March 21, 2015
This was a good story. Murder, mystery and romance. I really liked the hero, Jack. He was a great character. I liked the heroine Grace too. I think they had some good chemistry together. A nicely written sex scene so it's not rated G.
I kind of figured out the mystery early on, but that's ok. There is lots of dialogue throughout the entire book. (I like lots of dialogue)
And oh my, that Rosa! Wow what a mother! And I don't mean that in a good way! She was awful.
As for the narration, I really liked it. I thought Michelle Ford did a great job. I think she gave all everyone their own voice and the men sounded like men. Her reading voice was great.
Got this for free with my KU and only 1.99 on audible so it was a great deal for sure!
I kind of figured out the mystery early on, but that's ok. There is lots of dialogue throughout the entire book. (I like lots of dialogue)
And oh my, that Rosa! Wow what a mother! And I don't mean that in a good way! She was awful.
As for the narration, I really liked it. I thought Michelle Ford did a great job. I think she gave all everyone their own voice and the men sounded like men. Her reading voice was great.
Got this for free with my KU and only 1.99 on audible so it was a great deal for sure!
July 12, 2016
Disclaimer: I got the audio book for free in exchange for an unbiased review.
The book drew me right in, and after the first few pages, there was no escape -- I just *had* to listen on, and on, all through the night . ;)
I love a good mystery, and if there's some romance to boot, I can't ask for more.
The idea is great, and the execution is excellent. I've never been to the USA, leave alone Florida, but I could picture it all.
The narrator was excellent, too, which greatly added to my enjoyment of this novel!
This is my second novel by this author, and I'll definitely check out other novels by her.
The book drew me right in, and after the first few pages, there was no escape -- I just *had* to listen on, and on, all through the night . ;)
I love a good mystery, and if there's some romance to boot, I can't ask for more.
The idea is great, and the execution is excellent. I've never been to the USA, leave alone Florida, but I could picture it all.
The narrator was excellent, too, which greatly added to my enjoyment of this novel!
This is my second novel by this author, and I'll definitely check out other novels by her.
March 12, 2016
Another great novel from Victoria Howard! This one is special...it was dedicated to me! Thanks Victoria for the Honor!
April 19, 2024
I have listened to 3 of Victoria Howard's books now and I have to say this one is my favourite.
Ring Of Lies is a real adventure.
It takes you on such a intriguing,mysterious ride and I was captivated by what would happen to Grace and Jack and why Daniel was murdered.
Grace's husband dies in a car accident and from that point on nothing in Grace's life is ever the same again.She discovers the last 10 years of marriage to Daniel had just been a lie.
Grace is approached by a stranger at her husbands funeral who talks about things Grace knows nothing about.This stirs something uncomfortable inside Grace which is only bolstered by the fact that in Daniels will she has inherited a house in America...Questions starts to arise in Graces mind and she decides to go to America to find out the other secrets Daniel was keeping from her.
Luckily for Grace she knows who to call to help her,Jack is an FBI agent with a complicated home life.
He has a baby daughter and the mother of his daughter is vile and neglectful she doesn't want to be a mother..she has ulterior motives for trying to trap Jack.
Jack takes on the case of finding Daniels secrets for Grace so she can have some closure..But Grace and Jack find out more than they bargained for when bit by bit they unravel Daniels secret life.
The romance that grows between Jack and Grace is a slow burner as they both have their reasons for pulling away from the attraction they have at the beginning...But as they work closely together and the chemistry just seems to become stronger and it is only a matter of time before they have no choice but to give into what is bubbling between them.
I LOved listening to this audiobook the narration was EXCELLENT Michelle Ford is phenomenal at telling this story....She is amazing portraying ALL the characters in this book giving all of them a voice,which makes them stand out.
Michelle is a very talented voice actor and her voice is very easy to listen too and I thoroughly enjoyed her performance.
Ring Of Lies by Victoria Howard is a romantic suspense that will put you under its spell form the start.
Victoria's writing is 10 out of 10 its so detailed,descriptive and enthralling you can't help but fall in love with it.
An amazing audiobook LOved it.
5 Stars.
Ring Of Lies is a real adventure.
It takes you on such a intriguing,mysterious ride and I was captivated by what would happen to Grace and Jack and why Daniel was murdered.
Grace's husband dies in a car accident and from that point on nothing in Grace's life is ever the same again.She discovers the last 10 years of marriage to Daniel had just been a lie.
Grace is approached by a stranger at her husbands funeral who talks about things Grace knows nothing about.This stirs something uncomfortable inside Grace which is only bolstered by the fact that in Daniels will she has inherited a house in America...Questions starts to arise in Graces mind and she decides to go to America to find out the other secrets Daniel was keeping from her.
Luckily for Grace she knows who to call to help her,Jack is an FBI agent with a complicated home life.
He has a baby daughter and the mother of his daughter is vile and neglectful she doesn't want to be a mother..she has ulterior motives for trying to trap Jack.
Jack takes on the case of finding Daniels secrets for Grace so she can have some closure..But Grace and Jack find out more than they bargained for when bit by bit they unravel Daniels secret life.
The romance that grows between Jack and Grace is a slow burner as they both have their reasons for pulling away from the attraction they have at the beginning...But as they work closely together and the chemistry just seems to become stronger and it is only a matter of time before they have no choice but to give into what is bubbling between them.
I LOved listening to this audiobook the narration was EXCELLENT Michelle Ford is phenomenal at telling this story....She is amazing portraying ALL the characters in this book giving all of them a voice,which makes them stand out.
Michelle is a very talented voice actor and her voice is very easy to listen too and I thoroughly enjoyed her performance.
Ring Of Lies by Victoria Howard is a romantic suspense that will put you under its spell form the start.
Victoria's writing is 10 out of 10 its so detailed,descriptive and enthralling you can't help but fall in love with it.
An amazing audiobook LOved it.
5 Stars.
November 2, 2020
Daniel Elliott tinha 38 anos, era contador,casado com Grace e morreu em um acidente de carro. Sua viúva está arrasada pois ainda que seu casamento não houvesse amor, ela amava e confiava nele. No funeral de Daniel, Grace recebe uma ameaça e percebe que seu marido escondia segredos.
Na leitura do testamento, Grace descobre que Daniel deixou alguns bens para ela, dentre eles uma casa na América da qual ela não tinha conhecimento. Com que dinheiro ele comprou isso se eles não eram ricos? Além disso, Catherine- irmã de Grace também foi beneficiada no testamento. A propósito, a viúva tenta de todas as formas contatar a irmã para contar as notícias,mas tudo é inútil.
Vasculhando os pertences de Daniel, ela descobre um segundo passaporte com o nome de Lionel Lattide. Percebendo que alguma coisa está errada,Grace pede ajuda a Jack West- agente do FBI que ela conheceu há um tempo atrás.
Jack está passando por problemas: Rosa, mãe de sua filha Emília é irresponsável e não quer saber da bebê. Mesmo no meio de seu próprio inferno pessoal, ele aceita ajudar Grace - a mulher por qual ele se encantou mas que infelizmente não estava livre.
Com a proximidade, Grace quer mais com Jack, mas ele terá de pesar suas ações: além das questões sobre sua filha, ficar com a viúva poderá deixá-los vulneráveis e agora todo cuidado é pouco!
Quanto mais investigam, Grace e Jack vão descobrindo diversas coisas nesta rede de mentiras,traições,vingança,crimes e inevitavelmente alguns corpos pelo caminho.
Quem está por trás de todo esse mistério? De onde veio o dinheiro? O que despertou inimigos perigosos?
Venha investigar também!
Tem foto lá no meu ig: @alevadadanerd
Na leitura do testamento, Grace descobre que Daniel deixou alguns bens para ela, dentre eles uma casa na América da qual ela não tinha conhecimento. Com que dinheiro ele comprou isso se eles não eram ricos? Além disso, Catherine- irmã de Grace também foi beneficiada no testamento. A propósito, a viúva tenta de todas as formas contatar a irmã para contar as notícias,mas tudo é inútil.
Vasculhando os pertences de Daniel, ela descobre um segundo passaporte com o nome de Lionel Lattide. Percebendo que alguma coisa está errada,Grace pede ajuda a Jack West- agente do FBI que ela conheceu há um tempo atrás.
Jack está passando por problemas: Rosa, mãe de sua filha Emília é irresponsável e não quer saber da bebê. Mesmo no meio de seu próprio inferno pessoal, ele aceita ajudar Grace - a mulher por qual ele se encantou mas que infelizmente não estava livre.
Com a proximidade, Grace quer mais com Jack, mas ele terá de pesar suas ações: além das questões sobre sua filha, ficar com a viúva poderá deixá-los vulneráveis e agora todo cuidado é pouco!
Quanto mais investigam, Grace e Jack vão descobrindo diversas coisas nesta rede de mentiras,traições,vingança,crimes e inevitavelmente alguns corpos pelo caminho.
Quem está por trás de todo esse mistério? De onde veio o dinheiro? O que despertou inimigos perigosos?
Venha investigar também!
Tem foto lá no meu ig: @alevadadanerd
January 9, 2021
"Daniel tinha muitos amigos e parceiros de negócios. Onde eles estavam?... Ele acreditava ser tão amado; mas foi reduzido a isso —quase esquecido no dia do seu descanso."
Ler o livro Anel de Mentiras foi uma experiência muito emocionante, me senti como se estivesse em um filme policial! Então, se você leitor, gosta de ação, suspense, segredos e intrigas, esse livro foi escrito pra você!!
Grace se sente perdida após perder seu marido Daniel em um acidente. Vê o chão fugir de seus pés quando recebe de herança uma casa na Flórida e uma grande quantia em dinheiro, coisas que jamais imaginara um dia ter condições em conseguir em sua vida. E para finalizar, seu mundo desmorona ao descobrir que seu marido possuía outra identidade.
Grace não vê outra opção exceto ir até Miami, e ver com seus próprios olhos tudo o que Daniel havia conquistado sem comunicar a ela, e para isso, Grace irá pedir ajuda a um amigo e policial, Jack West.
Em meio às investigações, sentimentos como raiva, medo, frustração, serão despertos em Grace, afinal tudo o que ela havia vivido era mentira. E a cada descoberta, perseguição e sobrevivência, Grace desperta seu lado forte outrora reprimido pelo seu marido durante o seu casamento.
Fazia um tempo que eu não lia algo tão investigativo e foi incrível. Mesmo muitos acontecimentos sendo previsíveis, a ansiedade em finalizar a leitura e saber o destino de Grace é prioridade! Tem alguns momentos que a Grace parece merecer umas sacudidelas, pois não sabemos se ela finge não ver as coisas ou se realmente ela não quer acreditar. Por outro lado, são verdades que a machucam profundamente.
Ler o livro Anel de Mentiras foi uma experiência muito emocionante, me senti como se estivesse em um filme policial! Então, se você leitor, gosta de ação, suspense, segredos e intrigas, esse livro foi escrito pra você!!
Grace se sente perdida após perder seu marido Daniel em um acidente. Vê o chão fugir de seus pés quando recebe de herança uma casa na Flórida e uma grande quantia em dinheiro, coisas que jamais imaginara um dia ter condições em conseguir em sua vida. E para finalizar, seu mundo desmorona ao descobrir que seu marido possuía outra identidade.
Grace não vê outra opção exceto ir até Miami, e ver com seus próprios olhos tudo o que Daniel havia conquistado sem comunicar a ela, e para isso, Grace irá pedir ajuda a um amigo e policial, Jack West.
Em meio às investigações, sentimentos como raiva, medo, frustração, serão despertos em Grace, afinal tudo o que ela havia vivido era mentira. E a cada descoberta, perseguição e sobrevivência, Grace desperta seu lado forte outrora reprimido pelo seu marido durante o seu casamento.
Fazia um tempo que eu não lia algo tão investigativo e foi incrível. Mesmo muitos acontecimentos sendo previsíveis, a ansiedade em finalizar a leitura e saber o destino de Grace é prioridade! Tem alguns momentos que a Grace parece merecer umas sacudidelas, pois não sabemos se ela finge não ver as coisas ou se realmente ela não quer acreditar. Por outro lado, são verdades que a machucam profundamente.
November 8, 2020
Grace acaba de perder o marido Daniel. Depois de anos de casamento, ela se vê sozinha e sem saber direito o que fazer agora
Após a leitura do testamento, Grace descobre que seu marido que era um simples contador, tinha mtos segredos. Tentado entender tudo o que está acontecendo Grace precisa descobrir o que seu marido escondia
Alguns desses segredos a levam para os Estados Unidos e ela tem que deixar o Reino Unido se quiser ir atrás da verdade
Nos EUA, ela conta com a ajuda de Jack, alguém que ela conheceu um tempo atrás e por quem sente uma forte atração
Em Miami ela descobre ainda mais segredos de Daniel, segredos esses que colocam sua vida em perigo, pois algumas pessoas estão dispostas a matar
Foi uma leitura mto boa, o livro me prendeu demais. Tive que me segurar pra não passar da meta e continuar lendo kkkkk
A trama, o suspense que o livro vai desenvolvendo faz vc ficar mto interessado em como vai terminar.
Algumas coisas eu tinha imaginado o que seria e estava certa
A única coisa que me incomodou foram os capítulos finais, eu achei que a explicação para o que Daniel estava envolvido, foi mto corrida. São 31 capítulos e nos 2 últimos foi tudo mto corrido para explicar. Mas não foi nada que atrapalhesse a leitura
É um livro que vale a pena. Daniel era um grosso com a Grace e a gnt percebe alguns "sinais" de que ela vivia num relacionamento abusivo e acompanhamos a transformação e o qnto ela aos poucos vai se tornando mais forte e determinada
Após a leitura do testamento, Grace descobre que seu marido que era um simples contador, tinha mtos segredos. Tentado entender tudo o que está acontecendo Grace precisa descobrir o que seu marido escondia
Alguns desses segredos a levam para os Estados Unidos e ela tem que deixar o Reino Unido se quiser ir atrás da verdade
Nos EUA, ela conta com a ajuda de Jack, alguém que ela conheceu um tempo atrás e por quem sente uma forte atração
Em Miami ela descobre ainda mais segredos de Daniel, segredos esses que colocam sua vida em perigo, pois algumas pessoas estão dispostas a matar
Foi uma leitura mto boa, o livro me prendeu demais. Tive que me segurar pra não passar da meta e continuar lendo kkkkk
A trama, o suspense que o livro vai desenvolvendo faz vc ficar mto interessado em como vai terminar.
Algumas coisas eu tinha imaginado o que seria e estava certa
A única coisa que me incomodou foram os capítulos finais, eu achei que a explicação para o que Daniel estava envolvido, foi mto corrida. São 31 capítulos e nos 2 últimos foi tudo mto corrido para explicar. Mas não foi nada que atrapalhesse a leitura
É um livro que vale a pena. Daniel era um grosso com a Grace e a gnt percebe alguns "sinais" de que ela vivia num relacionamento abusivo e acompanhamos a transformação e o qnto ela aos poucos vai se tornando mais forte e determinada
July 27, 2021
💍Grace Elliot é uma mulher que acabou de perder o marido em um acidente de carro de uma forma muito estranha pois Daniel era um excelente motorista e como se não bastasse a estranheza do acidente ela é abordada por um cara estranho no velório de seu marido alegando que Daniel detinha informações confidenciais e queria assegurar que ninguém colocasse as mãos nesses documentos.
.
💍Com isso, Grace fica sem entender muito bem o que está acontecendo e começa a se perguntar se o seu marido estava envolvido em algo ilegal, mas Daniel era um bom marido e um excelente contador ele jamais faria algo ilegal, não é mesmo ? Eles foram casados por dez anos, ela saberia se algo assim estivesse acontecendo com o marido, não é mesmo?
💍Pois então... assim que ela ouve o testamento e descobre que o marido deixou tudo para ela inclusive uma casa de praia na Flórida da qual ela não tinha o menor conhecimento. Ela então resolve ir para Miami para conversar com outro advogado de Daniel (Sr. Parous) sobre essa casa de praia e quem sabe ela até consiga vender essa casa.
💍Ela revolve pedir ajuda para um amigo que trabalha no FBI (talvez os dois tenham um passado mal resolvido, não sei 😌) para que ele ajude ela nessa investigação sobre esses eventos misteriosos sobre o marido dos quais ela não tinha conhecimento até a morte de Daniel.
.
Juntos eles vão descobrir quem era Daniel e o esquema no qual ele estava envolvido e como era algo bem maior do que parecia a princípio.
.
💍Com isso, Grace fica sem entender muito bem o que está acontecendo e começa a se perguntar se o seu marido estava envolvido em algo ilegal, mas Daniel era um bom marido e um excelente contador ele jamais faria algo ilegal, não é mesmo ? Eles foram casados por dez anos, ela saberia se algo assim estivesse acontecendo com o marido, não é mesmo?
💍Pois então... assim que ela ouve o testamento e descobre que o marido deixou tudo para ela inclusive uma casa de praia na Flórida da qual ela não tinha o menor conhecimento. Ela então resolve ir para Miami para conversar com outro advogado de Daniel (Sr. Parous) sobre essa casa de praia e quem sabe ela até consiga vender essa casa.
💍Ela revolve pedir ajuda para um amigo que trabalha no FBI (talvez os dois tenham um passado mal resolvido, não sei 😌) para que ele ajude ela nessa investigação sobre esses eventos misteriosos sobre o marido dos quais ela não tinha conhecimento até a morte de Daniel.
.
Juntos eles vão descobrir quem era Daniel e o esquema no qual ele estava envolvido e como era algo bem maior do que parecia a princípio.
August 14, 2017
This is the second story I've read or listened to by this author. Needless to say, I loved it! It was interesting and held my attention the entire time.
This was my first time with the narrator. While I loved her natural/narrating voice, when it came to the male voices...yeah...the majority of the time the American male characters would sound annoyed, bored or angry and given their situations this didn't make sense. There were also times when the narrators English accent tried to come through during the American characters dialogue. The narrator did a great Spanish accent though.
Questions/Comments:
I never understood how/why the FBI was so willing to help Grace find the answers about who her husband was. There were times when someone would mention it being Jacks case, so was it just a coincidence that he and Grace knew each other already?
Jack wore speedos? Lol
Jack licked/sucked on Graces fingers after hiding out in the swamp prior to showering? Barf!
Even worse? A sardine and tuna pizza, which I've never heard of before. It was also strange that Jack didn't comment about her choice.
This was my first time with the narrator. While I loved her natural/narrating voice, when it came to the male voices...yeah...the majority of the time the American male characters would sound annoyed, bored or angry and given their situations this didn't make sense. There were also times when the narrators English accent tried to come through during the American characters dialogue. The narrator did a great Spanish accent though.
Questions/Comments:
I never understood how/why the FBI was so willing to help Grace find the answers about who her husband was. There were times when someone would mention it being Jacks case, so was it just a coincidence that he and Grace knew each other already?
Jack wore speedos? Lol
Jack licked/sucked on Graces fingers after hiding out in the swamp prior to showering? Barf!
Even worse? A sardine and tuna pizza, which I've never heard of before. It was also strange that Jack didn't comment about her choice.
August 31, 2017
I liked it - 3.5 stars
Michelle Ford does a great job narrating this book. Her voices for both male and female characters were good and I believed in the chemistry between the main characters.
How well do you know your spouse? With multiple secrets being exposed after Grace’s husband Daniel dies, it’s clear the answer is she didn’t know him at all.
This story begins in London and takes us across the Atlantic to Florida as we follow Grace on her journey to uncover all the lies and discover who Daniel really is.
Her partner on this journey is Jack West, FBI agent and a man she met 6 months prior when they were allocated seats next to each other at a tennis tournament. From the outset, it’s clear Grace and Jack are attracted to each other.
If you’re looking for a complicated whodunit, this is not the book. Even I, a person who tends to miss the obvious when reading mystery books, was able to identify who the murderer was early on.
The book delivers a good dose of mystery, suspense and romance and I enjoyed listening to it. I will be adding this author to my want-to read list.
Disclaimer: I got the audio book for free in exchange for an unbiased review
Michelle Ford does a great job narrating this book. Her voices for both male and female characters were good and I believed in the chemistry between the main characters.
How well do you know your spouse? With multiple secrets being exposed after Grace’s husband Daniel dies, it’s clear the answer is she didn’t know him at all.
This story begins in London and takes us across the Atlantic to Florida as we follow Grace on her journey to uncover all the lies and discover who Daniel really is.
Her partner on this journey is Jack West, FBI agent and a man she met 6 months prior when they were allocated seats next to each other at a tennis tournament. From the outset, it’s clear Grace and Jack are attracted to each other.
If you’re looking for a complicated whodunit, this is not the book. Even I, a person who tends to miss the obvious when reading mystery books, was able to identify who the murderer was early on.
The book delivers a good dose of mystery, suspense and romance and I enjoyed listening to it. I will be adding this author to my want-to read list.
Disclaimer: I got the audio book for free in exchange for an unbiased review
November 9, 2020
Vamos de #Resenhadaloba🐺 ⠀
Livro - Anel de Mentiras
Autora- Victoria Howard
5/ 5 - ⭐️ .
.
📚.
.
Grace de repente se vê viúva, seu marido morre deixando vários mistérios a se descobrir. Confesso que teve horas que queria sacudir a Grace para ela entender de vez tudo que estava acontecendo. Ao falecer seu marido lhe deixou um dinheiro e uma casa na Flórida que ela nem sequer sabia que existia. O marido de Grace era controlador, mesmo vivendo um casamento sem amor, Grace não queria enxergar a verdade. Querendo descobrir a verdade Grace pede ajuda a um amigo o Jack. Jack é um agente do FBI já tem seus próprios problemas e conflitos, porém, não conseguiu negar o pedido de ajuda de Grace. E juntos vão viver cenas incríveis de mistérios e descobertas. O enredo da história é incrível você começa a ler e não quer mais parar até chegar ao final e descobrir toda a verdade. Com muita ação, “suspense” e romance de tirar o folego vale a pena ler Anel de Mentiras.
.
#LeabharBooksEditora
#LeabharBooks
#LeabharBooksBr
#aneldementiras
#victoriahoward
#pensamentosepoesiadaloba
#rcloba #rutecoutoloba
#Amazon #lcsleabhar
Livro - Anel de Mentiras
Autora- Victoria Howard
5/ 5 - ⭐️ .
.
📚.
.
Grace de repente se vê viúva, seu marido morre deixando vários mistérios a se descobrir. Confesso que teve horas que queria sacudir a Grace para ela entender de vez tudo que estava acontecendo. Ao falecer seu marido lhe deixou um dinheiro e uma casa na Flórida que ela nem sequer sabia que existia. O marido de Grace era controlador, mesmo vivendo um casamento sem amor, Grace não queria enxergar a verdade. Querendo descobrir a verdade Grace pede ajuda a um amigo o Jack. Jack é um agente do FBI já tem seus próprios problemas e conflitos, porém, não conseguiu negar o pedido de ajuda de Grace. E juntos vão viver cenas incríveis de mistérios e descobertas. O enredo da história é incrível você começa a ler e não quer mais parar até chegar ao final e descobrir toda a verdade. Com muita ação, “suspense” e romance de tirar o folego vale a pena ler Anel de Mentiras.
.
#LeabharBooksEditora
#LeabharBooks
#LeabharBooksBr
#aneldementiras
#victoriahoward
#pensamentosepoesiadaloba
#rcloba #rutecoutoloba
#Amazon #lcsleabhar
June 3, 2022
Written by: Victoria
Howard
Narrated by: Michelle Ford
The storyline had a slow start to me. I tried hard to get into; starting it over several times, thinking that I must of missed something.
But, after Chapter about 9, I was able to get more into what was going on and follow the story.
Chapters really had more of a flow as it continued and
I was really excited about the characters and the mystery that lied ahead.
And, before I knew it, the audiobook was finished. "Ring of Lies" Turned out to be a very, Interesting, Suspenseful, Mysterious, Web of Lies, that led down to a road that brought a painful light to a naive sister who had to learn a painful truth.
Victoria Howard did write a telling mystery and suspense story, and I did enjoy listening to it, so I would give it 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️'s
The narrator; Michelle Ford, gave a GREAT performance all round. Her characters had their own individuality; especially the main characters, Grace and Jack. Michelle deserves every bit of 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️'s for that.
I do recommend listening to "Ring of Lies," because it was quite the mystery and some romance; you'll enjoy it!
ronigirl
Howard
Narrated by: Michelle Ford
The storyline had a slow start to me. I tried hard to get into; starting it over several times, thinking that I must of missed something.
But, after Chapter about 9, I was able to get more into what was going on and follow the story.
Chapters really had more of a flow as it continued and
I was really excited about the characters and the mystery that lied ahead.
And, before I knew it, the audiobook was finished. "Ring of Lies" Turned out to be a very, Interesting, Suspenseful, Mysterious, Web of Lies, that led down to a road that brought a painful light to a naive sister who had to learn a painful truth.
Victoria Howard did write a telling mystery and suspense story, and I did enjoy listening to it, so I would give it 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️'s
The narrator; Michelle Ford, gave a GREAT performance all round. Her characters had their own individuality; especially the main characters, Grace and Jack. Michelle deserves every bit of 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️'s for that.
I do recommend listening to "Ring of Lies," because it was quite the mystery and some romance; you'll enjoy it!
ronigirl
January 7, 2024
This book is truly a ring of lies. A convoluted tale of lies and deception. Grace is suddenly widowed. She discovers that she didn't know her husband at all when she is accosted by a stranger at her husband's funeral. Her husband Daniel had much more money than she expected and also left her a property in Florida. She decides to visit Florida and enlists the help of an old friend to help her get to the truth. Jack works for the FBI so is in a good position to help her. Unfortunately the story is fairly predictable, but nevertheless enjoyable. I liked the interaction between the different characters. Michelle Ford did an excellent job of the narration and kept me entertained during the more obvious parts of the story.
July 12, 2020
Follow Grace Elliott as she travels ‘across the pond’ from London to Miami to take care of her deceased husband’s affairs. Turns out that Daniel Elliott was hiding quite a bit from his wife of 10yrs...including a waterfront mansion. As Grace and her FBI friend, Jack, follow the money trail, they find more than they bargained for and Grace learns that Daniel’s betrayal went far beyond what they first thought. Great suspense story that keeps you guessing. Looking forward to more from this new to me author.
I voluntarily accepted a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I voluntarily accepted a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 18, 2019
My own prejudices color my response to the story. Grace annoyed me with her colorless victim mentality. Really? In ten years of repressive marriage she never even got angry with the slimeball?
Jack is more believable as the FBI guy who sounds, courtesy of the narrator, like he's from Chicago. The ancillary characters are well drawn and pretty believable as well. It is active, twisty, and moves right along. I wasn't really prepared for it to be mostly contemporary romance either.
Michelle Ford is very skilled in the art of voice acting.
I won this audiobook in a giveaway!
Jack is more believable as the FBI guy who sounds, courtesy of the narrator, like he's from Chicago. The ancillary characters are well drawn and pretty believable as well. It is active, twisty, and moves right along. I wasn't really prepared for it to be mostly contemporary romance either.
Michelle Ford is very skilled in the art of voice acting.
I won this audiobook in a giveaway!
February 26, 2022
Ela não sabia com quem estava casada
Grace, descobre após a morte de seu marido, que na verdade não o conhecia.
Segredos e mistérios cercam a morte de Daniel e só resta à Grace desvendá-los, para sua própria segurança.
Para isso ela terá que contar com a ajuda do agente especial, Jack West, um "quase" caso antigo.
Juntos partem para Miami, em uma aventura às cegas, cheia de perigos.
O e-Book ganha força e mais suspense do meio para o final, ficando impossível largar até desfecho.
Indico a leitura!
Grace, descobre após a morte de seu marido, que na verdade não o conhecia.
Segredos e mistérios cercam a morte de Daniel e só resta à Grace desvendá-los, para sua própria segurança.
Para isso ela terá que contar com a ajuda do agente especial, Jack West, um "quase" caso antigo.
Juntos partem para Miami, em uma aventura às cegas, cheia de perigos.
O e-Book ganha força e mais suspense do meio para o final, ficando impossível largar até desfecho.
Indico a leitura!
December 13, 2021
The death of Grace's husband results in questions after questions. Grace finds herself hoping to Miami from England to hear her husband's will. Grace fortunately has ìthe aid from F.B.I. agent Jack West. They uncover many lies Grace's husband harbored leaving her completely clueless as to who and what he was.
Narrator Michelle Ford was fabulous in bringing the characters to life. I really enjoyed listening to this book.
Narrator Michelle Ford was fabulous in bringing the characters to life. I really enjoyed listening to this book.
December 28, 2018
I really enjoyed this very long audible story about Grace and Jack. They had met at a tennis tournament and were instantly attracted to one another. Grace was married and kept her vows. Later our two characters find themselves working together to keep alive and to solve several murders. Fun to guess and the narration was really well done.
Murder, mystery, and romance.
Murder, mystery, and romance.
August 7, 2020
Maravilhoso.
Me senti como se estivesse em um SCI Miami. Fantástico e instigou minha veia investigativa kkk Súper recomendo. Um romance delicioso com uma trama fora de série. E vou dizer,,... eu fui enganada em quem era o traidor. Apostei no agente errado.
Recomendadíssimo para quem gosta do gênero como eu.
Me senti como se estivesse em um SCI Miami. Fantástico e instigou minha veia investigativa kkk Súper recomendo. Um romance delicioso com uma trama fora de série. E vou dizer,,... eu fui enganada em quem era o traidor. Apostei no agente errado.
Recomendadíssimo para quem gosta do gênero como eu.
October 31, 2020
Anel de mentiras...um simples símbolo de compromisso vira um vendaval de emoções e decepções...Grace vivia em paz até descobrir, depois da morte de seu marido, que sua vida era uma mentira. Inconformada e desesperada, busca ajuda com um amigo (e que amigo❤) Jack...e o que era um simples resgate de bens vira um romance policial de tirar o fôlego! Recomendo a leitura!!!!
April 15, 2021
I really enjoyed this very long audible story about Grace and Jack. They had met at a tennis tournament and were instantly attracted to one another. Grace was married and kept her vows. Later our two characters find themselves working together to keep alive and to solve several murders. Fun to guess and the narration was really well done.
Murder, Mystery, Romance
Murder, Mystery, Romance
February 20, 2018
Excellent read!
I enjoy a good book that holds my attention. It captivated me and held my attention from start to finish
I enjoy a good book that holds my attention. It captivated me and held my attention from start to finish
May 13, 2023
I enjoyed this, it was well narrated and the suspense of the story worked for me. I wanted to keep going to the end to find out what happened.
April 18, 2011
What happens when the man you have been married to for ten years, is not whom you thought he was? After Daniel Elliot dies in a car crash, Grace is left to deal with all the details regarding his will. Grace finds that Daniel has an Alias, has a lot of money, and a beach house in Miami that she knew nothing of. Its seems that this loveless marriage, that Daniel kept Grace in, controlling her and keeping his secrets was more than just a connivance but a lie. Her life with him was safe and stable but now she is unsure has to whom her husband really was.
Grace contacts an old friend Jack West, an FBI agent that Grace had met 6 months prior. Jack agrees to help Grace Get answers to questions and unravel the mystery behind all the secrecy in her marriage and find out who Daniel Elliot really was and where this money came from.
With Strings of lies, deceit, murder and mystery, Jack protects Grace from all in harm way to only discover the lies have been right in front of Grace the whole time. Family boundaries are pushed, heart breaking discoveries are made, and Grace finally decides to take her stance. Jack uses his expertise to help Grace to unravel all the mysteries and secrets and life is not at what Grace thought it was. It was a marriage filled with lies.
Review ;)
An emotional roller coaster that was fast paced , filled with murder, suspense, lies, and romance. I really enjoyed this mysterious storyline, the plot smoothly flowed from one chapter to the next, and the end finalized swiftly but efficiently to give the reader a well delivered finale to a susspensful read. Romance was present not the main factor in the read but I felt this was evenly distributed to give us those elements we look forward in any suspenseful romance thriller. I was worried towards the end only 15 pages to go and still no deal was sealed. But Victoria ended it well, nothing left unfinished, and a finale which I am sure pleased the reader. I know I was impressed.
The main characters two very different characters, but tended to fit the jigsaw well. Every little piece and details were included, giving an insight to the characters personality and views. Descriptions once again well detailed thoughts, emotions and surrounding well portrayed. I enjoy this in a read, as I am a visual reader!!!
I enjoyed Jacks character definitely not flawless, but his love for his daughter softened his hard exterior, good cop -hard arse. He new what his responsibilities where and never faulted with either. He was brave, and respected, and gallant to the end.
Grace was a tortured soul, living in a loveless marriage stuck to her vows, not matter what. She was withdrawn in the beginning of the story but in time her character grew to great depths creating a complete new person. Strong and determined to move on with life, and start to live. I was happy to see Grace stand her ground and move on with life no matter what had happened to her. She had a strong will and in the end this showed in her character.
There are plenty of villains present creating that mystery and suspense that we all crave in a good thrilling read. Their characters coming across as callous and uncaring and just hard arse, this was portrayed well. Could a villian be portrayed but this ... You grew to hate the charcters and what they stood for, but this also is part of a great story...
Overall, Victoria never disappoints in her writing, intriguing the reader into the world that she has created, drawing us into the suspense, and mystery and even little loving entwined. The romance wasn’t a big part of the story, but I fell it was just perfect, giving us the insight to Jack and Grace’s emotions and dragging us along in the moment.
All secondary charcters meshed well with the story line, making it a enjoyable read , all necessary and blending in well with the plot.
I’ve now read two of Victoria’s stories and have immensely enjoyed both and I certainly look forward to more of her stories in the future... A must read!! That will keep you on the edge of your seat, right till the very end.
Grace contacts an old friend Jack West, an FBI agent that Grace had met 6 months prior. Jack agrees to help Grace Get answers to questions and unravel the mystery behind all the secrecy in her marriage and find out who Daniel Elliot really was and where this money came from.
With Strings of lies, deceit, murder and mystery, Jack protects Grace from all in harm way to only discover the lies have been right in front of Grace the whole time. Family boundaries are pushed, heart breaking discoveries are made, and Grace finally decides to take her stance. Jack uses his expertise to help Grace to unravel all the mysteries and secrets and life is not at what Grace thought it was. It was a marriage filled with lies.
Review ;)
An emotional roller coaster that was fast paced , filled with murder, suspense, lies, and romance. I really enjoyed this mysterious storyline, the plot smoothly flowed from one chapter to the next, and the end finalized swiftly but efficiently to give the reader a well delivered finale to a susspensful read. Romance was present not the main factor in the read but I felt this was evenly distributed to give us those elements we look forward in any suspenseful romance thriller. I was worried towards the end only 15 pages to go and still no deal was sealed. But Victoria ended it well, nothing left unfinished, and a finale which I am sure pleased the reader. I know I was impressed.
The main characters two very different characters, but tended to fit the jigsaw well. Every little piece and details were included, giving an insight to the characters personality and views. Descriptions once again well detailed thoughts, emotions and surrounding well portrayed. I enjoy this in a read, as I am a visual reader!!!
I enjoyed Jacks character definitely not flawless, but his love for his daughter softened his hard exterior, good cop -hard arse. He new what his responsibilities where and never faulted with either. He was brave, and respected, and gallant to the end.
Grace was a tortured soul, living in a loveless marriage stuck to her vows, not matter what. She was withdrawn in the beginning of the story but in time her character grew to great depths creating a complete new person. Strong and determined to move on with life, and start to live. I was happy to see Grace stand her ground and move on with life no matter what had happened to her. She had a strong will and in the end this showed in her character.
There are plenty of villains present creating that mystery and suspense that we all crave in a good thrilling read. Their characters coming across as callous and uncaring and just hard arse, this was portrayed well. Could a villian be portrayed but this ... You grew to hate the charcters and what they stood for, but this also is part of a great story...
Overall, Victoria never disappoints in her writing, intriguing the reader into the world that she has created, drawing us into the suspense, and mystery and even little loving entwined. The romance wasn’t a big part of the story, but I fell it was just perfect, giving us the insight to Jack and Grace’s emotions and dragging us along in the moment.
All secondary charcters meshed well with the story line, making it a enjoyable read , all necessary and blending in well with the plot.
I’ve now read two of Victoria’s stories and have immensely enjoyed both and I certainly look forward to more of her stories in the future... A must read!! That will keep you on the edge of your seat, right till the very end.
July 9, 2011
When accountant Daniel Elliott dies in a car accident, his widow, Grace, is overcome with grief…and panic. Daniel was controlling and their marriage loveless, but he always took care of her.
Or so she thought.
Grace soon discovers Daniel kept secrets: an alias, mob ties, a list of numbers, a mysterious beach house in Florida….and a girlfriend who looks like Grace. Swallowing her fear, she flies to Miami to claim the house Daniel left her. But the price of her curiosity is peril. Underworld figures stalk her. And handsome, troubled FBI agent Jack West has crossed precarious paths with Grace before. With little to go on and danger at every turn, Grace must depend on Jack to help her navigate the criminal world of south Florida, and find the truth behind the Ring of Lies.
Betrayed by the one man she should have been able to trust…
My heart ached for Grace from the moment I started reading. Her world collapsed when her husband died, but she had no idea how much worse things were about to get. A stranger at Daniel's funeral threatens Grace and implies that Daniel was involved in some illegal activities. At first Grace refuses to believe the man she’s been married to for ten years could have kept so much from her, but it isn’t long before she is forced to face the truth.
Grace was a very likable character. In the beginning she is simply a long suffering housewife who was married to an emotionally and mentally abusive husband. However, I was very pleased that Grace didn’t stay that way for the entire length of the story. She didn’t change overnight. Ms. Howard gradually drew Grace out of her shell as the story progressed. This made Grace’s character development feel very natural. I enjoyed watching Grace assert her independence as it began to slowly sink in that she was free of Daniel’s influence. I was also pleased that she developed a backbone and a good dose of courage, which she certainly needed as she dug deeper into the truth of her dead husband’s activities. However, she was stubbornly naïve throughout a good portion of the story. As I read, I had a large part of the mystery figured out, but Grace simply refused to see the truth. There were times when I wanted to reach through the pages and smack some sense into her. I’ll admit I was a little worried that Grace would wilt when the final pieces of the puzzle slid into place. However, I was pleased to discover Grace was truly a stronger woman by the end of the story.
Jack West is the perfect hero for Grace. He’s a tough FBI agent dedicated to his job, but that is just one of the layers to his interesting character. He’s also the father of Emilia, a very young infant. Jack isn’t perfect. He has a very flawed relationship with Emilia’s mother that makes Jack a more believable character. While his relationship with Emilia’s mother is strained at best, it is clear that he cares for Emilia more than anything in the world. The scenes where Jack takes care of Emilia really showcase the softer side of his personality and really made him come alive in my mind.
Jack and Grace have chemistry to burn, but their timing always seems to be off. When they first met, Grace was still married. Now that Daniel is gone, Grace learns that Jack is a father. Ms. Howard did an excellent job of balancing these everyday problems against the more extraordinary situations Grace and Jack faced as they dug into Daniel’s past. It really helped ground the story and made Grace and Jack’s relationship feel more realistic.
Ring of Lies was definitely an enjoyable read. Not only did the suspense keep me turning pages, but the romance between Grace and Jack was compelling. Fans of romantic suspense will certainly want to check it out.
Originally published on Long and Short Reviews
March 21, 2011
Blurb:
When accountant Daniel Elliott dies in a car accident, his widow, Grace, is overcome with grief...and panic. Daniel was controlling and their marriage loveless, but he always took care of her. Or so she thought. Grace soon discovers Daniel kept secrets: an alias, mob ties, a list of numbers, a mysterious beach house in Florida...and a girlfriend who looks like Grace. Swallowing her fear, she flies to Miami to claim the house Daniel left her. But the price of her curiosity is peril. Underworld figures stalk her. And handsome, troubled FBI agent Jack West has crossed precarious paths with Grace before. With little to go on and danger at every turn, Grace must depend on Jack to help her navigate the criminal world of south Florida, and find the truth behind the Ring of Lies.
Review:
Ring of Lies was such a fun book to read while taking a little time for "me". Grace was an intriguing character and is faced with an incomprehensible loss. She's facing not only the loss of her husband but everything she's ever known to be true. Her entire marriage was a deception. She suffered at the hands of her husband both mentally as well as emotionally. As the book progresses, Grace begins to find out who she really is. This was one element of Grace's character that impressed me because she was not the type of woman to just lie back and let life steal her soul and will to live.
I fell in love with Jack's character immediately. His loyalty to his baby melted my heart and the scenes where he took care of her really bonded me with his character. I love to see the softer side of my hero. His character was flawed which made him all the more relatable to me. The sexual tension between Grace and Jack is palpable. Sparks flew from the moment they met. I enjoyed that this book didn't rely heavily on the romance but rather on the suspense of the book. What draws the reader in is the constant push and pull between Jack and Grace. They want a relationship but, for one or the other, circumstances don't allow it.
What keeps the reader hooked is the suspense, which this book did not lack in the least. Ring of Lies was a fast paced, action packed book that started out with intriguing scenes and continued throughout the book. With plenty of villains to choose from, you won't guess until the last part of the book who is really behind everything. I won't give anything away but I will say that things aren't always as they seem.
Ms. Howard has done an amazing job of writing in a way that the reader can relate to. She has a knack for knowing what the reader craves and then delivering in such a satisfying way that the reader can't possibly put the book down. Bottom line, you GOTTA read this book, it's not one to be missed.
When accountant Daniel Elliott dies in a car accident, his widow, Grace, is overcome with grief...and panic. Daniel was controlling and their marriage loveless, but he always took care of her. Or so she thought. Grace soon discovers Daniel kept secrets: an alias, mob ties, a list of numbers, a mysterious beach house in Florida...and a girlfriend who looks like Grace. Swallowing her fear, she flies to Miami to claim the house Daniel left her. But the price of her curiosity is peril. Underworld figures stalk her. And handsome, troubled FBI agent Jack West has crossed precarious paths with Grace before. With little to go on and danger at every turn, Grace must depend on Jack to help her navigate the criminal world of south Florida, and find the truth behind the Ring of Lies.
Review:
Ring of Lies was such a fun book to read while taking a little time for "me". Grace was an intriguing character and is faced with an incomprehensible loss. She's facing not only the loss of her husband but everything she's ever known to be true. Her entire marriage was a deception. She suffered at the hands of her husband both mentally as well as emotionally. As the book progresses, Grace begins to find out who she really is. This was one element of Grace's character that impressed me because she was not the type of woman to just lie back and let life steal her soul and will to live.
I fell in love with Jack's character immediately. His loyalty to his baby melted my heart and the scenes where he took care of her really bonded me with his character. I love to see the softer side of my hero. His character was flawed which made him all the more relatable to me. The sexual tension between Grace and Jack is palpable. Sparks flew from the moment they met. I enjoyed that this book didn't rely heavily on the romance but rather on the suspense of the book. What draws the reader in is the constant push and pull between Jack and Grace. They want a relationship but, for one or the other, circumstances don't allow it.
What keeps the reader hooked is the suspense, which this book did not lack in the least. Ring of Lies was a fast paced, action packed book that started out with intriguing scenes and continued throughout the book. With plenty of villains to choose from, you won't guess until the last part of the book who is really behind everything. I won't give anything away but I will say that things aren't always as they seem.
Ms. Howard has done an amazing job of writing in a way that the reader can relate to. She has a knack for knowing what the reader craves and then delivering in such a satisfying way that the reader can't possibly put the book down. Bottom line, you GOTTA read this book, it's not one to be missed.
March 9, 2016
http://audiothing.blogspot.com.au
I don't usually go for the Romance genre, but the Suspense tag caught my attention and it's good to read something different. The story starts off quite well; Grace is in the throes of shock and grief over her husbands fatal car accident, and, as the blurb states, she is finding out bit by bit that her husband was not the person she thought she knew. Seemingly abandoned by her sister and with no one to help, her thoughts turn to Jack, an American whom she met during his trip to the UK, they'd had a minor flirtation but nothing more. The real adventure begins when Grace decides to go to Florida to try to unravel a few mysteries, she seeks out and meets up again with Jack, she needs his help, fortuitously, he is an FBI agent.
I really didn't know how to rate this book as despite really enjoying the story I was too irritated by Graces' intensely annoying personality to become fully engaged. She would have a panic attack at the drop of a hat - and she kept having them! How Jack put up with her hysterics I don't know, especially when they endangered life and limb. Also, I couldn't understand her thinking processes, at one point they are hiding out in the marshes from a would be killer, Grace is being lacerated by sawgrass, a snake crawls over her leg and the 'gators are out there, so, at risk of discovery, she decides to have a panic attack. Jack manages to control her, just! Yet, in this state of mental anguish and physical discomfort she decides that sex might be a good idea - remember, the killer is still out there! Weird, plain weird, I just didn't get along with her at all. Anyway, as the mystery begins to unravel slowly, we find out who the other woman is in Daniel Elliot's life and then, finally, we discover his secret life.
Jack has a story to tell too, which lends some added interest to the tale, he has his troubles, in fact he has a whole lot more than he thought but he comes through. I would have liked a few more clues about Daniels dirty deeds a bit earlier in the story, it all came out in a bit of a rush at the end. All in all, a pleasant light story, ideal for beach reading, but silly Grace spoiled it for me.
Narrator
I enjoyed Michelle Fords narration, I admire the way she portrayed Graces' hysterics without being over the top dramatic. Her skilled characterisation and gender changes are excellent and well differentiated and she sure knows how to portray a bitch! I was never in any doubt about who was who in the story. Lovely voice with good pace and timing, an all round quality recording.
This audiobook was provided by the author at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBlast dot com.
I don't usually go for the Romance genre, but the Suspense tag caught my attention and it's good to read something different. The story starts off quite well; Grace is in the throes of shock and grief over her husbands fatal car accident, and, as the blurb states, she is finding out bit by bit that her husband was not the person she thought she knew. Seemingly abandoned by her sister and with no one to help, her thoughts turn to Jack, an American whom she met during his trip to the UK, they'd had a minor flirtation but nothing more. The real adventure begins when Grace decides to go to Florida to try to unravel a few mysteries, she seeks out and meets up again with Jack, she needs his help, fortuitously, he is an FBI agent.
I really didn't know how to rate this book as despite really enjoying the story I was too irritated by Graces' intensely annoying personality to become fully engaged. She would have a panic attack at the drop of a hat - and she kept having them! How Jack put up with her hysterics I don't know, especially when they endangered life and limb. Also, I couldn't understand her thinking processes, at one point they are hiding out in the marshes from a would be killer, Grace is being lacerated by sawgrass, a snake crawls over her leg and the 'gators are out there, so, at risk of discovery, she decides to have a panic attack. Jack manages to control her, just! Yet, in this state of mental anguish and physical discomfort she decides that sex might be a good idea - remember, the killer is still out there! Weird, plain weird, I just didn't get along with her at all. Anyway, as the mystery begins to unravel slowly, we find out who the other woman is in Daniel Elliot's life and then, finally, we discover his secret life.
Jack has a story to tell too, which lends some added interest to the tale, he has his troubles, in fact he has a whole lot more than he thought but he comes through. I would have liked a few more clues about Daniels dirty deeds a bit earlier in the story, it all came out in a bit of a rush at the end. All in all, a pleasant light story, ideal for beach reading, but silly Grace spoiled it for me.
Narrator
I enjoyed Michelle Fords narration, I admire the way she portrayed Graces' hysterics without being over the top dramatic. Her skilled characterisation and gender changes are excellent and well differentiated and she sure knows how to portray a bitch! I was never in any doubt about who was who in the story. Lovely voice with good pace and timing, an all round quality recording.
This audiobook was provided by the author at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBlast dot com.
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