Pearl Abbott I made a choice. A single lie that changed everything. In that moment, my life stopped spinning out of control. Not because I found my way, but because I hit rock bottom. Hard. Now, I have a second chance. An opportunity to turn my life around and become the woman I’ve been too afraid to embrace. And I’m taking it. I never thought I would meet him. He challenges me, spurs my desire to show the world that one night will not define who I am.
Roman Evans When the most beautiful blue-eyed blonde I’d ever seen slammed into me, my world was transformed. But the universe played a cruel joke and the woman of my dreams is a constant reminder of my nightmares. I lost someone once. A moment, a single action stole half of who I am. To allow myself to give in to my deepest desires feels like a betrayal and yet I’m drawn to her. So I lie to the world and ignore my heart until it nearly breaks in two and I can’t take it anymore. Live in the past or fight for the future? I made a choice.
Rachel Caid lives in Missouri with her husband and two sons. She is a self-proclaimed coffee addict with no plans of recovery and is an avid reader of all types of romance. Her day job is very black and white, so she enjoys being able to lose herself in the colorful world of novels; whether it’s reading or writing them.
When I pick up the latest release by Rachel Caid, I know this woman is going to remind me that a bit of reality can be very bit as entertaining, engrossing and titillating as all the other books filled with bad boys, bikers and whip yielding billionaires. It's what I've come to love and crave from this author. So while I had certain expectations when I started Hidden by Lies, I was bowled over by what I wasn't expecting.
I wasn't expecting the tears that ran down my cheeks during the first few chapters, as Pearl's story struck a cord in me. I wasn't expecting, in the next few chapters, to be so utterly enraged by Roman's high ideals that I was ready to cut out his left nut. Seriously, he needed to be knocked down a notch or two. I wasnt expecting to be taken down a road that drew so many emotional parallels to my own life experiences. Everyone makes a poor choice or two in life and sometimes, the hardest thing to do is to recognize the mistakes and survive the consequences. Pearl's are like quick sand, threatening to suck her under, while Roman's are so entrenched in his lofty convictions, he doesn't even know they exist.
Hidden by Lies is the emotional story that happens when right and wrong, black and white, and love and hate all collide. Pearl and Roman are forced to face the consequences of their choices and they will either make things right or risk loosing the love they both so desperately need. Take this poignant, heart felt journey with them. You just might find yourself on a journey of your own.
Pearl and Roman's story is my favorite contemporary romance read of the year. Actually, their story rescued the genre for me. So much of what I had been reading was, well, like everything else I'd already read. This book is unique, refreshingly real and extremely relateable with enough snark and heat to keep things hopping. ;)
An artist who is occasionally an asshole? And he's really only an asshole because he doesn't know how to calmly tell someone he's worried about them? Heck yes! This is the first book I've ever read by Rachel and I swear when I was done I felt like I had read tons of them! I think part of that is just what an awesome lady she is herself but seriously. This was a great book with awesome characters that I loved! Pearl is such a kind hearted and caring character that you can't help but love her and want to squeeze her so that she knows she is loved. While there were a few spots in the writing that threw me off a little overall the writing and story were so good that it was not a huge deal. I for one hope that Griff and Clair (okay if that name is wrong I'm sorry, I just got off of work) get their own books because after reading this I know they have stories to tell! This was a sweet love story that was full of angst and sassy retorts that I can't wait for everyone to read!
Roman all grown up is a force to be reckoned with. Sure he has his issues, but that's what makes him..... him. And Pearl. She's spitfire in heels I think! So many emotions. All the feels! We always judge people by their actions, and what we hear from others. But sometimes it pays to ask the questions and get the answers yourself. Never give up on someone based on hearsay. Sometimes you may miss out on the best things life has to offer. The thing I LOVE about Rachel's writing is she makes the characters real. Anything that happens could easily happen to anyone. And the way these characters deal with these issues is sort of a learning tool. Seeing how others handle things can help you determine how you would handle them as well.
I was totally absorbed from beginning to end as this second chance romance was angsty, intense and full of WTF moments. The plot was exciting and fast paced, the characters were real and likable. This is a new author for me and I'm hooked! 4.5 stars!!
Hidden Lies by Author Rachel Caid is book one in the Hidden Hearts series. It is a hate-to-friends-to lovers story.
“It’s amazing you can even see me from the back of your high horse. You are the most prejudicial, arrogant, judgmental jerk I’ve ever met.”
Rome and Pearl are two peas in a pod, but also oil and water. Both are head-strong and determined. Both have a past that haunts them. These bring out their greatest strengths and their most noticeable weaknesses.
"I’m ready to shed my costume and live my life without letting insecurities and fear dictate my every decision."
At the very beginning of Hidden Lies, my heart connected with Pearl. She made bad choices, but was genuinely such a great chic. First meeting Roman, he came off as a bit of a jerk. But, he was also a strong-willed, alpha-male who liked to be in charge.
"...we all have to find the road that fits our feet.”
This was not an easy beginning to a smooth love affair. Heck no! It was a love-hate at its finest. But you know what that means, right?!? All of that pent up frustration had to come out somewhere and when it did, it was HOT! Pearl and Roman together gave us snark, frustration, and even some good chuckles as they slowly grew on one another. My adoration for these two was ever present, but at about seventy percent, my thoughts went to an entirely different level. Their reverent acts toward one another put a spin on love that lifted my heart up and made it glow.
"Now that I’ve tasted her, now that I know how perfectly her body fits against mine, I want more."
Hidden Lies was an angst-driven and addictive love story that helped the past be extinguished by the flames of two people's passion. I LOVED Roman and Pearl and that they had to fight to gain the beauty of love; it made it that much sweeter. I am so excited to get more of this series.
"We’re together. We’re in this deep, and I don’t want out. I want you by my side for every celebration, failure, and everything in between, just like I’ll be at yours.”
Hitting rock bottom is about the worst thing a person can experience. But what if something good comes out of it? Will the pain, regret, and shame be worth it? Will you embrace it when something beautiful emerges from the biggest mistake of your life?
Hidden by Lies by Rachel Caid is a great depiction of what can come out of a bad situation. Pearl has make some grave mistakes in her life--partying and drinking too much, surrounding herself with the wrong people, not caring, and using the wrong coping mechanisms. And yet, we get to see how she turns her life around. How she realizes that letting other people in, let them help, can be a good thing. Turns out Roman is one of them. Even though his own issues prevent him from seeing what's right in front of him for quite a while. But can he forgive what he sees as unforgivable? Or is the attraction between them doomed from the beginning?
I enjoyed Pearl and Roman's story of redemption, forgiveness, and love. I liked the plot and the writing a lot. It flowed and kept me entertained for the most part.
Unfortunately, there were some parts I wished were more fleshed out and explained better. And some inconsistencies were found throughout the book. Sometimes, the characters' motivation wasn’t always as clear as I wished they were.
Overall though, I enjoyed Hidden by Lies and I'm looking forward to more of this author. And I'm sure most people will enjoy this book without being taken out of the story by my rather peculiar issues. I will definitely read more by Rachel Caid!
***ARC received in exchange for an honest review***
First book I've read by this author and I liked it.
This book was full of feelings and not what I expected. It was a love story wrapped in a little bit of suspense, angst, loss and pain.
Pearl self esteem was low even though she was drop dead gorgeous. My heart squeezed every time I read her POV about needing someone and being a mistake. Roman was a hottie with a good heart. He met Pearl when she was his aide at a center where he teaches Art to kids. His POV will show you his kind heart.
These two fought and fought against their feelings that made you want to strangle them but in a good way. There is clearly no rushing in this story. Roman and Pearl love story was a bit complicated because of some incidents, misunderstandings and Rob who wouldn't go away.
When these two finally gave in there were still some bumps but they made it work. I personally don't think their story is over and has more happy endings in store.
I voluntarily received an advanced reader copy of this book from the author.
In Ms. Caid's debut book, Healing, Roman was this adorable little boy, but boy has he grown up. This is his putting his past behind him and finding love story. Roman isn't a billionaire, he isn't some wildly popular sports hero, he isn't over the top in any way. He is a regular guy. The kind of guy you would meet at your kid's rec center, and that's what I love so much about him. He has flaws, and scars that haven't fully healed. Yeah, he was a jerk sometimes, but what guy isn't at some point? But Roman is also a guy who loves hard and protects those he loves. He is the ultimate guy next door! Pearl is flawed as well. She has made some mistakes in her life and hitting a low point has forced her to make changes in her life. Even though she feels she is broken and unworthy of love, she is a fighter and is stronger than even she thinks she is. I loved this story. It was completely relatable. There were no over the top story lines. This could be the story of someone you know. I was sucked into the story and felt like I had become friends with Roman, Pearl, and even Claire and Isaiah (who I hope will be getting a book of their own).
My first book by this author and I'm excited to read more.
This book grabs your attention straight away with a great storyline and relateable characters you won't want to put it down till the end. You will feel every emotion and go on a complete rollercoaster of a journey. The story flows really well and the love/hate between Pearl and Roman was really fun to read. Not only that but in this book you go on a complete journey with the main characters and you get both the sweet sexy side and the angst drama filled side all in one book. I look forward to more from this author.
I received an arc for an honest review but I would certainly invest in a copy as well. It would be well worth it. The story is about a girl named Pearl who was convicted with a DUI but was told if she completed community service they would clear her record. She decides to do her community service at a local youth center. There she meets Roman, a volunteer art teacher with a past of his own. The two get off to a rocky start but sparks soon fly and they can't stay away from each other. Will they be able to move on from their pasts and have a future together?
The story of Pearl and Roman is emotional and sensual, and the writing is excellent!
Pearl has some serious self-worth issues. Her internal dialogue is heartbreaking, especially if you've ever experienced anxiety or depression because it's so real. And Roman. Ah, Roman. He carries his own emotional baggage as well.
I loved how these two grew throughout the story. Through their own experiences, and each other, they became better people. It was beautiful to see. (Although there was one moment that I REALLY wanted to smack Roman, he made up for it. You'll know when you get to it!)
This book is a great roller coaster ride of emotions.Happy,sad ,love and hate you will experience them all when you read this book!! This book is my favorite Rachel Caid book so far loved it can't wait for more!!!
This is the first book I have read by this author and I really enjoyed it. This book was full of some many emotions, so many things I did not expect. Love, loss, pain and happiness all rolled into one incredible story.
Roman Evans' first impression of Pearl Abbot is like something out of a dream, one filled with all sorts of happily ever afters, and he can't wait to get to know her better.
His second impression is quite different though, being introduced to the woman who's working off her community service by assisting him run his art class at a community center. Community service that she incurred from a DUI conviction and if there's one thing on God's green earth that Roman simply can't stand, it's drunk drivers. He's got his reasons.
Picking up a generation after her Finding Home Series, Rachel Caid pits these two characters not only against each other, but each against themselves. Each finding their own reasons to sabotage any potential that their mutual attraction might have of flourishing.
In a story that is very much a standalone even though it has the occasional familiar face for fans of Rachel's earlier works, it builds on themes of pushing forward and making the best of things contrasted with the occasional necessity of looking back.
Filled with rich and intriguing characters and at least one that you'll quickly love to hate, Hidden By Lies lives up to it's title with secrets abounding and truth and lies woven so seamlessly it's hard to pick them apart.
An emotional journey told first person from dual perspectives this one had me second guessing things right up to the end and I couldn't put it down.
My first Rachel Caid’s book, and it was a delight to read it.
I loved the writing, the characters, the way the author dealt with Pearl’s mistake and Roman’s struggling to overcome his past and let her in.
And what ca I say about the sexual tension and tenderness….
I also loved the others characters, like Claire and Zay, and since this book is the first in the series, I’m really interested in a next story. It was so, so good, the only “but” would be the lack of “Epilogue”. I’m like that, I love my Epilogues, set in the future, but maybe we’ll get hints of Pearl and Roman in the next book?
Seriously, I’m so glad I was given the opportunity to discover another author, great job, Rachel Caid, I devoured this love story in two days!
Kudos too for the COVER (it’s really beautiful, and proves that bare chests, abs and tattoos aren’t the only way to catch my eye in Romance books)
Can’t wait for the next!
*** I received this book by the author in exchanged honest review. Thank you so much for the opportunity! ***
Hidden By Lies was a exceptional quality written book that grabbed my attention right away from the beginning; I could not put this book down even if I wanted to. The love/ hate relationship Roman Evans and Pearl Abbott had for each other was so exciting to watch bloom into true love. Rachel Caid did an amazing job with the storyline throughout the whole book. The way the character's ended up being there for each other was phenomenal.
Pearl Abbott was accused of drunk driving and got a DUI. She got community service instead of jail time because her father John Abbott was a lawyer. She ends up doing her community service at a Kids Center. She meets Roman there when Mr. Lawson puts her in his art class as his aide. Roman is very rude to Pearl at first for personal reasons that she is unaware of. Even though Roman was rude to Pearl he was very protective of her when her ex Rob showed up at the center. They both have hidden secrets that they don't want told or shared. Romans brother Griff goes to a party and overhears Rob talking to some friends about what really happened when Pearl got the DUI. As they get to know each other they fall hard for each other.
This is the first book I have read from Rachel Caid. I would definitely recommend this standalone book to other readers, and I look forward to reading more of her books.
I loved this story. It's about a girl who makes mistakes and she has to learn to live with them and grow from them. Also in the process she has to learn to love herself and know she is worth something. In doing that she learns to get rid of poisonous people in her life and let the good people in. And in the end you learn she might not be just as bad with judgement as you thought. The author did a great job on keeping the reader interested. I had a hard time putting this book down. And I felt myself relating to the main character Pearl. What girl hasn't felt insecure when it came to herself and love? I found myself cheering for her to have a good future. This story is also about a man named Roman who wants to love Pearl but there are obstacles in both their lives. He has to learn to forgive people in his past to let people in his present and future in. I found myself relating to him as well. When people hurt us it affects us deeply and we have to chose to forgive and move on or hold a grudge and let it weigh us down. I recommend this book to anyone who loves good romance and also who loves stories of people stuck in the dirt who lift themselves up.
I have read all of Rachel Caid's books and this is her best work yet. I love watching authors grow.
This book was soooo good. I loved the plot and the characters created. The thing about this authors books they are very relatable and not your typical fairytales. They come across as more life experiences then just a story. Her characters came to life in this book. The anticipation was intense and all the feels left me wanting to reach through the pages.
This is a must read!!! It had me from the very beginning. I couldn't put it down. I can't wait for the next book in this series.
Another wonderful story from Rachel!! She has a way with words that makes it hard for me to put down one of her books. I was so excited to see that Roman was getting his own book! I enjoyed seeing how stubborn he was and how he had get over his issues to get his pretty Pearl. I love that you see Pearl work hard to learn to like herself again. And I love that she made Roman work hard to win her over!
Hidden By Lies is a slow burn romance with a mysterious edge. The mystery is shown in the title and all questions in regard to the mysterious lies are answered in this book. I liked this book and the characters are people you can relate to. I like slow burn romances and I like that this one doesn't make you suffer or drive you nuts like some do. I think the burn is just right. Good book!
Rachel has such great writing skills. The story just flows so seamlessly well, it's a pleasure reading her books. I'm so happy that Rachel has carried on this series. Loved it.