Pretty Little Lies

Deception Duet #1

by Morgan James

Don't miss the first book in Jules and Eric's story, a steamy opposites-attract, small-town romantic suspense from USA Today bestselling author Morgan James.


After the mission three years that nearly ended my life, all I want is peace and quiet in my sleepy little town. When I find Jules sleeping in her car on the side of the road, I feel an immediate pull to the green-eyed beauty. The darkness in her eyes tells me she harbors a deep secret, and the bruises covering her body elicit a protectiveness I never knew existed.

There are a thousand reasons why I should stay far, far away, but none of them seem to matter when she looks at me with those wide, innocent eyes. Everything about her is wrong… but so very right. When Jules is drawn into a deadly trap, I'll do everything in my power to protect the woman who's come to mean everything to me.


*Pretty Little Lies is book four of the Retribution Series. It can be read as a standalone and ends as a "happily for now." Jules and Eric's story concludes in book two, Beautiful Deception. Don't miss the rest of the books in the series!

Unrequited Love (Jack and Mia #1)
Undeniable Love Jack and Mia #2)
Unbreakable Love (Jack and Mia #3)

Pretty Little Lies (Eric and Jules #1)
Beautiful Deception (Eric and Jules #2)

Sinful Illusions (Fox and Eva #1)
Sinful Sacrament (Fox and Eva #2)

Genres: Romance, Dark, Contemporary Romance, Amazon, Dark Romance, Contemporary, Romantic Suspense

270 pages, Paperback

Published July 7, 2020

About the author

Morgan James is a USA Today bestselling author of more than twenty romantic suspense novels. She spent most of her childhood with her nose buried in a book and cut her teeth on the likes of R.L. Stein and Christopher Pike. When not writing, she can be found at her home in Ohio with her husband and two kids.

Reviews

[Dora Koutsoukou · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 🤔🤔❤️⭐️s

Jules was the only daughter of a former capo of Chicago, and Eric was the sheriff of the town Jules was hiding from her abusive uncle.
They met and their journey began.

The first part of the Deception duet was interesting, however it was really slow. Well written but it could have been more concise.
Although it started out as a mafia romantic suspense read, there was no mafia involved throughout the story - apart from the first chapter.
Regardless, I will read the second part and see how the story develops... 🤞🤞

[c a r í · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars ★★★

I didn't expect to like it more than I did, given that I haven't read any book by this author and I'm glad I took my chances ☺

Guillana is the princepessa to this Italian family, and he's abusive uncle Massimo make a nasty deal to the Russians to offer some peace between the two families, so Guillana serves as the sacrificial lamb for her family, despite of her unwillingness to be part of it. Then one day she asked for the help of her friend to escape her engagement and cruel uncle.

Eric is the town sheriff, then one night he received a distress call concerning a sort of fight club then he meets Jules there, and he instantly feel the needs to protect her so he offer her to stay at her place after he sees that Guillana staying in her car. Then the story goes from there.

what I like most about this book, it's a fast pace read, and since the h is 10 years junior to H I appreciate the hesitation and a bit of angst between our main characters. And I cannot wait to read the book two and see how the story will concludes.

[Rock N Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an emotional rollercoaster. Wow.

Book one Eric & Jules duet was amazing. Morgan James delivered a brilliant story; building the character backgrounds, the angst, the secrets, hints at connections, steam, and emotion.

I'm so glad that this is a duet because the book ended closer to an HFN rather than a cliffhanger, but I had so many questions at the end that I know the author will answer in book 2. Granted, I didn't get the harsh drop off in the last chapter that I would normally expect from a duet, but I was no less intrigued to continue onto book 2.

Eric is alpha book boyfriend hotness in all its glory; protective, dominant, and a filthy mouth. All the yes!

Jules is rightfully timid but has strength that you don't often find in heroines in these storylines. Her character growth is amazing to watch and I can't wait to see her progress in the final book.

PLL has it all: sexy sheriff, mafia themes, action, suspense, secrets, and all the heat. You definitely want to one-click this one.

[The Lusty Literarians · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've loved Eric since we first met him in the Frozen in Time trilogy, Unrequited Love. When I heard that he was getting his own spin off duet I just knew that I had to read it! Jules and Eric have an instant attraction to one another and some amazing chemistry. Jules is a great balance to Eric's character. He is a gruff, take charge kind of guy and she is a silent rebel who everyone gets along with. This book is much darker than we're used to from James, but I loved that about it. The story is fast paced, suspenseful and intriguing. I'm thrilled to see this couple, and the return of Jack & Mia. I know book two is going to be even better!

[GKP2460 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pretty Little Lies is full of action, secrets and surprises at every turn. It'll keep your interest and on the edge of your seat all the way through. Giuliana Capaldi the daughter of a former capo of the Capaldi Family. After her father's death she is handed over to her uncle Massimo, a very cruel man. To strengthen ties between two families she is then promised over for an arranged marriage to a man even more nasty than her uncle. When she decides she won't marry and runs away she runs to a small community where she meets Eric. Eric Donahue is the sherriff and immediately feels a connection to Jules when he responds to a fight at the Fox Hole, the bar she started working at. He later finds her sleeping in her car and can't let her stay there. He brings her home with him and helps her get a job at a ski lodge owned by his friends. She's hoping she can get comfortable but unfortunately her demons find her and problems come from all angles. Will Eric be able to keep them both safe from the dangers the secrets of her past brings?

[Jessica Glass · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read an ARC of this book and as always Morgan James has written an epic story that is filled with lust, secrets and romance. The passion between these two characters (Eric and Jules) kept me so entertained I couldn’t put this book down. Spoiler Alert: Although I was secretly hoping and (impatiently)waiting for all the secrets of Eric and Jules past to be revealed by the end of this book, I am great full that there story will continue on. Can’t wait to read what Morgan James has in store in “Beautiful Deception”. Will Eric and Jules divulge more from their secret past? And will their love be enough to stand the test of all time? I’m staying tuned!

[Brittnie Becker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Eric and Jules story and it begins with Jules trying to escape her connection to her mafia family .


So she runs and where that journey leads her is hiding in a shady establishment until Eric saves her .

Has the town sheriff taken it to far getting to close to a call

But someone is still out there messing with Jules mind this book eludes to many suspects read to find out who is behind her anguish and fear ....


In this book you will get mystery, anguish , romance all in one great book .

[Tina Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book and agreed to review it. I liked the characters of Jules and Eric. I was disappointed by the way the book ended until I found out it was a two part book. Now I can’t wait to read part two. I liked the characters of Mia and Jack and hope that there is a story about them too.

[Melody · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jules Eric
Wow this story sizzles from the 1st page to the last it's intriguing tantalizing action packed heart wrenching and toe curling all-in-one delightful gritty dark treat💞
I read an ARC of this book and am voluntarily writing my review.

[c a r í · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first read by this author, and I personally enjoyed it. Can't wait for conclusion.

[Coco.V]

🎁FREE on Amazon & on Apple Book today (1/4/2021)!🎁

[Michelle Frater · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I found this to be a sweet, enjoyable read, it was more small-town romance than mafia chaos. Just like many before her, Jules was destined to be a pawn in an arranged marriage, where her only value was her virginity and family connections. Dreading a marriage to a man even crueler than her uncle, she runs. Knowing how sheltered she’s been all her life (to the point of isolation), I was surprised how well she coped traversing the country with barely any real-world experience at all. Luckily when her car breaks down, Pine Ridge was the perfect place to land, though the sheriff was probably not the first person she wanted to see. Finding her sleeping in her car with bruises on her face, Eric offers her a place to stay. Though there’s an instant attraction, Eric is determined to keep his distance, if only because of their age difference. Jules was an interesting character full of so many contrasts. Both innocent and naïve, yet full of grit and determination to be independent and self-reliant. I loved how the town seemed to embrace her as she slowly let her guard down and started to feel safe and make friends. Eric, on the other hand, was the archetypal big city cop with a traumatic past, who moved to a small town for a quieter pace of life. I kept expecting him to dig deeper into Jules’s past, but I loved him all the more for letting her keep her secrets. While this book has a HFN ending, there’s certain to be a reckoning in the second part of the duet and I can’t wait to see where this story goes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first part of Jules and Eric’s story. This book had me mesmerized from the first page to the last. Jules may have had a sheltered and privileged upbringing, but now she is being used as a pawn by her abusive uncle who wants to unite two mafia fractions. She is smarts and brave enough to escape her uncle with the help of a friend. Here’s ape path leads to her to the man who will be come her everything. Being near Eric, the Sheriff of Pine Ridge, and working at the new ski lodge helps Jules gain confidence, become even braver and gives her a sense of accomplishment and safety. She never expected to fall for the broody, terse and intimidating Sheriff, but the close proximity helps her to see a different side of him, a side that very much desires her, even though he never acts on it.

Eric can’t help feeling protective of Jules, especially after finding her in her car with all her worldly possessions ready to spend the night in the freezing cold temperatures.he is dedicated to his job and to protecting the people of the town, but their is something deeper that spurs him to take Jules into his own home. He can see she is scared, doesn’t want to push her, but he also wants some answers. Having her in his home proves to be a test of his control, and he wonders how long he can resist claiming, the much younger, naive and much too innocent woman in his care.

I enjoyed the added suspense in this book as well as the tension and gradual lowering of their guards. They both go through their own personal growth as the story continues, though both still hold on to secrets that may well endanger the blossoming relationship between them. I can’t wait to see how their story unfold in the next book.

I would give this mesmerizing book my highest recommendation.

[Lyndsey Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
Steam:🔥1/3
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This was my first read from this author and I found it to be enjoyable. I had heard good things about this duet and was excited to try it out.

I totally felt for Jules, her circumstances were so heart breaking. I hated her past so much, it was just something nobody should ever go through. I admired her resiliency and tenacity so much. I also was loving her friendship with Mia! It was so nice to see her overcoming her past and paving the way for her future.

Eric is normally my favorite type of hero, I mean ya girl loves a hot cop. Getting to know Eric was a bit of a slow process in my opinion but still enjoyable. He definitely was a good match for Jules and his heart was so pure. I loved that he continued to support her even when she wasn’t totally letting him in.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. I appreciated the slow burn because it made sense for these characters and the story. The pacing of the book was a bit slow for my taste but I believe that could be because the author was setting the stage for book 2 in this duet. I can’t wait to read the rest of Jules and Eric’s story!

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eric and Jules. Abused by her uncle. Her late father was capo. She was to be given in an arranged marriage into the Bratva. A cruel man. She crafted an escape plan. She was free. He was now the sheriff of Pine Ridge. He came from Chicago. He was transporting a prisoner to Kalispell. His senses became aware of something, an awareness that saved him more than once, but he couldn't see anything, yet. She ran out of gas and money and coasted to The Fox hole and OMG its a strip joint and she was able to talk them into a waitress job. First night all chaos broke loose. Sheriff appeared and lifted her out of the way and he was struck by her beauty. Stay put and on to his job after she was gone. He stopped for gas and that feeling came over him again when he saw a blue car parked behind the store it was her and noticing all in the car he said get your things and come with me. Did I do something wrong. We can do this the hard way or the easy way. Giving a choice jail or my place she chooses his place. He didn't know why but he will protect her with his life. She has secrets and there danger and suspense and mystery. Loved their story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lilian · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5⭐️
Since her father’s death, Giuliana has been controlled by her uncle. Now that she is turning 20, she is being married off to the Russian Bratva by her uncle to broker peace between them and the Capaldi family. Realising that the marriage will destroy her chances at living her own life, she decides to run away.

Unknowingly, she ends up at Fox Hole, where she introduces herself as Jules and gets a job serving drinks. On her first day, a fight happens and she meets Eric Donahue who is sheriff at Pine Ridge.

Eric has never felt such a pull towards any other woman. Seeing how broken up Jules is makes him even more protective of her. His failed marriage and the age gap between them (more than 10 years) stops him from pursuing her initially.

However, the forced proximity brings opportunities for both of them to seek what they truly want (and need). I love all the scenes where Eric is taking care of her and the suspense is just right as well, without taking away the focus from their romance.

I can’t wait for the next book to see more of Jules and Eric!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Maggie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Giuliana “Jules” Capaldi is off and running when her horrible uncle sets up a match to wed her off to a just-as-horrible man to further his mafia ties. She runs straight into the arms of the hero and sheriff Eric Donahue, who has just as much baggage as Jules.

The blurb got me. I really wanted to read this because I enjoy a good mafia romance. But the mafia is minimal in the first book. It’s Jules on the run, and finding a safe place in Pine Ridge.

I must say I enjoyed Jules’ character. She was impressive with her sheltered background, but she has the help of a dear friend who manages to get her out of Chicago. Eric comes across her at the bar where a fight has broken out, and he comes upon her later in her car, stranded. He feels sorry for her, but also extremely attracted to her, and offers Jules his bedroom as a safe haven.

Read more here: https://wp.me/p12iNR-7xR

[Tesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book and can't wait for the next part of this story.

After finding Jules in a car, battered and broken, Eric takes her under his protection.

So much happens between these two. Their love so imminent and strong, especially as his protective instincts kick in, as danger closes in.

But their pull towards each other really was the drive of the story.

Very well done Morgan James knows her stuff and this is a wonderful book. Great characters and plot and leaves me wanting so much more.

Great work!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[PAMpublish · Rating 3 out of 5]

Plot is interesting and lures one in, especially with the mafia family sure to be in pursuit of this runaway meant to be forcefully married into the Russian mafia to assure alliance. However, oh yeah, that's in book two and not addressed here. Unlikely scenario of a sheriff taking in a female runaway but noble until his dark passion surfaces along with foul language to go with it. A surprised ending as to who is really after Jules in the first book. However, despite this being a free promotion, will leave others to purchase book 2, not caring to know how all this dark passion concludes.

[Angela · Rating 1 out of 5]

Jesus don’t get me started.

I understand it’s a duet but the plot does a complete 180 for no reason. My man Eric does the absolute bare (pardon the pun) minimum in the bedroom but is treated as gods gift to women, we’re hit over the head ad nauseum over the age difference between the MCs but we’re never told how old MMC is and honestly I’m more annoyed I was sold on the mafia princess trope but then given small town cop hero trope. Like…I’ve been catfished.

Just ick.

[Bonnie Mancuso · Rating 4 out of 5]

LOVED THIS ONE!!!
This is the first book I've read by Morgan James and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters are remarkable and have great chemistry. The storyline intrigued me from the beginning and kept me turning the pages throughout. I'm so glad to hear this is part of a duet. I want more of Eric and Jules story.

[Debra McEathron · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a cliff hanger. The story continues in the next book. The story itself is really good and there are a lot of heavy duty sex as well. Jules is running away from her uncle and a forced wedding. She ends up in a small town and the sheriff has helped her when her car broke down, He knows she's hiding something but not what it is and he has his own problems to deal with.

[BecReadReview · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eric & Jules set off intense heat from the get go. I enjoyed the slow burn & the final crash as Eric gave in. To Eric the mystery of who & what is Jules leaves us hanging & wondering throughout.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[brenda hurley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this story. It was well written and it kept me on the edge of my seat. Was not happy with the ending.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Charlene Rowe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Finished??

Good story. Not without flaws, but worth the read. I was disappointed that the story stopped where it did with no real conclusion.

[Nicky · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting read about Jules who flees from her mafia uncle and ends up in a small town where she meets sheriff Eric. Looking forward to the second book.

[Bec McQuillan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nothing beats a classic Mob story. Add an officer a got one to boot as well as the Mob Princess and you have drama, action and love.

[Sarah DeLong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast-paced, suspenseful and incredibly steamy, this first book in the Duet held me captive.

[Sheila · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, this book pulls you in right from the start! Pretty Little Lies is a mix of suspense, slow-burn romance, and small-town charm, all wrapped up in a story about survival, trust, and forbidden love.

What I Loved:
- Jules: I absolutely adore her resilience. Even though she comes from such a traumatic past, she’s determined to take control of her life. Her mix of vulnerability and strength is so well written.
- Eric: Who doesn’t love a broody, protective sheriff with a heart of gold? Eric’s hesitation because of their age gap and his own baggage makes the romance feel real and earned. Plus, he’s so caring without overstepping, which I loved.
- The Small-Town Vibes: Pine Ridge feels like a cozy, safe haven, and I loved how the townsfolk slowly embraced Jules, giving her a taste of the normal life she’s always wanted.
- The Slow Burn: The chemistry between Jules and Eric is chef’s kiss. It’s intense but never rushed, and their growing connection feels natural despite their pasts.

What Could Be Better:
- Pacing: The story starts strong, but it drags a bit in the middle as it sets up for the second book. It felt like some parts could have been tighter to keep the tension high.
- Cliffhanger: While I knew this was part of a duet, I wasn’t ready for how abruptly it ended. It’s not a dealbreaker, but I wish we got a bit more resolution in this book.

Favorite Moments:
- When Eric offers Jules a place to stay despite knowing she’s hiding something—it shows his protective instincts and makes my heart melt.
- The little moments of Jules adjusting to her new life in Pine Ridge, like making friends and feeling safe for the first time.
- Eric finally giving in to his feelings—so worth the wait!

Final Thoughts:
This book is more than just a romance; it’s about finding hope and healing in the unlikeliest places. Jules and Eric are such a great match, and I can’t wait to see how their story unfolds in Beautiful Deception. If you love slow-burn romances with a hint of danger and a lot of heart, this one’s for you!

Be ready to fall hard for Eric—seriously, where can I find a small-town sheriff like him? 🥰

[WB · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty Little Lies by Morgan James is a captivating mob theme story that I didn’t want to put down. Can’t wait for more.