Absolutely loved this! Didn’t know what to expect going in but it was a lovely introduction to NetGalley and I thought it was brilliant

A story about a wife who learns that her DA husband is cheating on her with his secretary. He offers her to let her have her own affair with a person he chooses, but she thinks it’s outrageous. It’s a dark romance where the villian gets the girl and also please know that there are talk about parents’ death, abuse and explicit sex scenes.
The story flows well with many POVs thrown at your however it all ties up properly at the end.

A huge sparkling 5 stars from me this book had me up to early hours of the morning, as I was so transfixed to the story. It was so good I read it within 24 hours! The ending had me gasping in awe!

This book will grip you from the very first page and hold you tightly in its grasp right until the very last page and it will leave you wondering what book you could possibly read next because no book would be able to top this one!

I’d highly recommend everyone to add this book to your reading list, you won’t be disappointed! A truly gripping psychological thriller!

Wow I'm spechless!!

Beneath Your Lifes started off as a gripping psychological thriller. The various POVs gave the story so much dimension. I had to know what would happen next to Veronica, Ronan, and Taylor. The story alternated between present and past, giving small clues and hints at what was going on.

I really enjoyed the writing and being thrown into action straight away. I kept turning the pages. This was unputdownable!

This is a solid 5-star read.

Veronica Sullivan's seemingly idyllic life gets turned on its head when she confronts her husband about his infidelity. Desperate to maintain his image as the State's District Attorney and salvage their marriage, he proposes a shocking solution-Veronica can indulge in her own affair, but only under his supervision! Wow wow wow!! Some truly shocking twists! Fantastic storyline with great suspense, murder, serial killers, mystery, fantastic characters, and a few jaw dropping moments! I highly recommend reading this book! Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for sharing this book with me!

I love the suspense and love the curve ball at the end. I did not expect it. I read this as an ARC and I am so glad I did. I will definitely be reading more from this author! My review contains spoilers on Goodreads.

4.5 ⭐ – Love love love!

Fast-paced, twisty, and told through three POVs - one of which brilliantly clicks into place at the end. Veronica and Ronan’s chemistry was a highlight, though one spicy scene felt a bit unrealistic given the events beforehand (the only reason I didn't give a full 5⭐).

Still, I absolutely loved reading this and I'm so happy that my very first ARC experience was such an amazing one. Thank you to Nicole Owens and NetGalley for the opportunity! I’ll definitely be keeping my eyes peeled for a second book… please say it’s coming!

Wow what a twist!
Started and finished this book today, couldn't put it down.
Got so into the characters and their stories, and the ending was a good suprise!
The spice was a great addition and didn't take away from the storyline.

A fantastic dark romance that I could not put down.

It gives female rage, forbidden love, suspenseful romance and revenge & healing.

Veronica has discovered that her District Attorney husband Richard has been unfaithful and she confronts him leading him to insist she moves into a hotel room and has her own affair to settle the score. But only with a man of his choosing and under his constant influence.

But Veronica has plans of her own. That is until she meets hitman Ronan. Dark and mysterious with his own demons. The chemistry between the two of them is undeniable and they find they can’t stay away from each other despite how dangerous it is for them both.

This story struck the perfect balance between story and spice. The spicy scenes are brilliantly written and leave you tingling. But they support the fantastic storyline that cleverly bridges genres of thriller, crime and romance.

The characters are complex and deep, and the cast of side characters are no different. I particularly loved Ronan’s best friend and hacker Sylvie. I was gripped by how Veronica and Ronan’s lives, secrets and destinies are linked and come to a head at the end.

Richard as the villain was the perfect blend of power and control. His influence of powerful people in the city was truly terrifying, you can’t help but love to hate him.

You learn more about the characters as the story progresses but some of the twists still had me gasping. And without giving away any spoilers the final chapter was a shocker that makes me think there will be a sequel. Fingers crossed.

A fantastically fun read that I absolutely devoured. Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy

Whewwww this book splash some water on me lol !!! It was so good inviting page tuning wow !! I loved the storyline at first I was wondering where is this going but it took a different turn I didn’t like Veronica’s husband at all but I’m glad Veronica got on game and did what she had to do good good read thank you

I absolutely loved this book! Veronica and Ronan’s story had me hooked from page one — the perfect blend of slow-burn romance, raw emotion, and just enough suspense to keep me turning the pages late into the night. The chemistry between them felt real and earned, built through stolen moments, vulnerable conversations, and unshakable trust that developed over time.

What stood out most to me was how the story showed that trust takes time, people carry hidden battles, and love — while messy — can also be deeply healing. It’s a reminder that the past doesn’t have to define the future, and that sometimes the bravest thing you can do is open your heart again.

This book gave me all the feels, and I’m already excited for my next read from Nicole J. Owens!

I loved this from the moment it started. The characters are so realistic, I felt like any of them could be me (or someone I know)
The plot was SO twisted, up until the VERY LAST PAGE! literally...I forgot the name and then started reading like OMFG!
The amount of "YES GIRL' that I told myself while reading was hilarious.

I love a good thriller!
This was tense, suspenseful, twisty and such a page turner.
If you like thrillers definitely give this one a try! You won’t be disappointed!!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“BENEATH YOUR LIES,” BY NICOLE J. OWENS. A stunning dark romance set to release 09/23/25.
🐍 “Good for her.”
🖤 Cheating husband trope.
🐍 Hitman MMC love interest.
🖤 FMC is wife of District Attorney.
🐍 Time jumps ( Present / Past ).
🖤 Insta-crush.
🐍 Forbidden love.
🖤 Dual POV.
Thank you to @netgalley for the opportunity to review. This one is for the baddies with a praise addiction, who are into overstimulation, and a man murdering for you. We love to see it.
OVERVIEW:
Veronica Sullivan’s seemingly idyllic life gets turned on its head when she confronts her husband about his infidelity. Desperate to maintain his image as the State’s District Attorney and salvage their marriage, he proposes a shocking solution-Veronica can indulge in her own affair, but only under his supervision.
As she embarks on this unconventional journey, Veronica meets Ronan, an enigmatic hitman haunted by his past who has a shared interest. They have an unmistakable, unquenchable connection, yet Veronica guards her own secrets closely, especially as a series of unsettling disappearances and murders grip the city. No matter how hard Veronica tries to deny it, there’s something about Ronan that keeps making her go back for more...
MY THOUGHTS:
I knew from the authors dedication page that this was going to be a riveting tale of revenge, and it turned out to deliver exactly that, and MORE. I was curious about the cast, and the characters were complex, and deep. Veronica was 100% my favorite, as I have a soft spot for candid, no-bullshit women. Ronan was a perfect love interest for her, equally as seductive as he was vicious, dark, and… traumatized. Lol.
Banter was absolutely delicious. More than enough twists and turns to keep me satisfied, and no spoilers… but that FINAL CHAPTER? YK WHO WAS THE KILLER?? OMG. PLEASE LET THERE BE A SEQUEL?? I’ll cry if not. Dual POV was the perfect choice. The MMC wasn’t the only one with a secret, which was an added cherry on the top. And the FMC’s secret is SO juicy that I actually gasped.
All in all, what a fun read!

Nicole J. Owens ventures into morally treacherous territory with Beneath Your Lies, crafting a psychological thriller that refuses to offer easy answers or comfortable protagonists. This is a novel that operates in the gray spaces between victim and perpetrator, exploring how betrayal can transform ordinary people into something unrecognizable. The result is both fascinating and occasionally frustrating—a story that succeeds through sheer audacity even when its execution wavers.

The novel’s greatest strength lies in its willingness to embrace psychological complexity without sanitizing difficult emotions. Owens creates characters whose responses to trauma feel genuinely unpredictable, avoiding the therapeutic frameworks that often constrain contemporary fiction about infidelity and revenge. The protagonist’s journey from wounded spouse to active participant in dangerous games feels psychologically authentic, even when morally questionable.

The central relationship crackles with the kind of intensity that makes readers question their own moral boundaries. Rather than presenting straightforward romance, Owens explores how desperation and attraction can become dangerously intertwined. The chemistry between her leads feels genuinely volatile—not just passionate but potentially destructive in ways that create authentic tension rather than manufactured drama.

Where the novel excels is in its atmospheric creation of mounting dread. Owens understands that the most effective psychological thrillers operate through accumulating unease rather than sudden shocks. The sense that violence lurks just beneath civilized surfaces permeates every interaction, making even mundane conversations feel charged with potential danger.

The narrative structure presents both opportunities and challenges. Multiple perspectives allow for complex character development and moral ambiguity, but the frequent shifts sometimes undermine emotional continuity. Just as readers begin investing in one character’s internal journey, the focus shifts to another viewpoint, creating distance that can work against the intimate psychological exploration the story seems to promise.

The genre-blending approach demonstrates admirable ambition but occasionally creates tonal inconsistencies. The domestic drama elements require different pacing than the thriller components, and the romantic threads need space to develop that sometimes conflicts with suspense requirements. When these elements align, the result is genuinely compelling; when they don’t, the story can feel pulled in competing directions.

Owens’ handling of morally complex characters deserves particular recognition. Rather than creating antiheroes who remain fundamentally sympathetic, she presents people whose choices genuinely challenge reader allegiances. This approach requires considerable skill—too much sympathy undermines the thriller elements, while too little makes the story unengaging.

The exploration of power dynamics within relationships adds sophisticated psychological texture. The novel examines how people use emotional manipulation, physical intimidation, and professional influence to control others, creating scenarios that feel uncomfortably realistic despite the heightened circumstances.

The pacing fluctuates between breathless urgency and contemplative character study, sometimes within the same chapter. While this creates variety, it can also disrupt narrative momentum at crucial moments. The story works best when these different speeds feel intentional rather than accidental.

For readers who like:
-Morally ambiguous protagonists
-Psychological thrillers
-Multi-perspective narratives

Final Verdict
Beneath Your Lies succeeds through pure boldness, creating a story that’s more interesting for its willingness to explore uncomfortable psychological territory than for its technical execution. Owens has crafted something genuinely provocative that will likely divide readers—some will appreciate its moral complexity while others may find its shifting focus frustrating. Despite structural issues, this remains compelling reading for those seeking fiction that doesn’t provide easy answers or comfortable protagonists.

Grateful to NetGalley, Moonlit Graves Publishing, and Nicole J. Owens for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.

Loved this book! Veronica and Ronans story is so beautiful and I love them! The plot twist was so unexpected and I loved it!

Very exciting beginning, draws you in immediately.
The characters evolve as the story progresses, making them realistic and making the story more intriguing.
It's well-written overall, at times there might be slight repetitions but they feel more stylistic and flow well in the book.
There are twists that keep the story intriguing and exciting.

Read this as an ARC on NetGalley and really enjoyed it!
I couldn’t put it down and read it in a day.

It’s a story of true female rage & revenge with forbidden romance and twists that I did not see coming.

The epilogue drew me in right away, as did the first sentence in Veronica’s first chapter. I loved that we were fed little hints of Veronica’s dark past without giving anything away. It kept me reading and wanting to work it all out.

Ronan is the morally grey mmc that you know you shouldn’t root for but find yourself doing exactly that. I’m not usually a fan of the instant love trope but it worked so well in this story and felt more believable given Ronans background.


4/5 star dark romance.

I really enjoyed this as a it had that suspenseful atmosphere that I was looking for and was engaged from start to finish and thought worked well in its twists. I was hooked from the first page and thought the overall feel worked in the genre and was invested in what was happening. Nicole J. Owens has a strong writing style and enjoyed the overall concept and how the characters were written. I enjoyed how good the characters were and that they worked in this universe.

This book has all the things. A mystery guessing through the entire story, with steamy scenes sprinkled in. Loved, loved, loved it!

Veronica, the wife of the district attorney finds out her husband is cheating on her. She confronts him and he offers a solution to ‘save their marriage’, that she can have an affair with someone else of his choosing. Veronica meets Ronan, a hitman and they share an immediate connection and chemistry. They each have their own secrets and past.

I really really enjoyed this book! It drew me in from the beginning. There was so much suspense and plot twists throughout that kept me so engaged and wanting to read more. I absolutely loved Veronica’s character, she was so strong and loved her and Ronan. Loved the different pov of each character, allowed me to learn more about each character. Absolutely loved and the plot twists at the end, oh my!!!

5 STAR READ!!

When I read the description of this book, I was completely sold. And I was not mistaken.

I suspected what had happened to Victoria since almost the beginning (I read a lot of Nordic crime novels when I was in my twenties), but it didn't prevent me to enjoy a very well-narrated plot. The side characters are very well described, and that really helps you get into the book and feel part of the story. I loved Sylvie and Lauren since the first time they appeared on-page.

The spice is top-notch, and who doesn't love a morally grey hero and some "touch her and die" scenes? I definitely do. Victoria and Ronan are perfect for each other, and I was plotting Richard's demise alongside her the whole book.

100% recommended!
Happy reading! 🥰

Everything seems normal for Veronica until she finds him having an affair and her husband suggest she do the same except he will pick her affair partner.
DA's young wife Veronica and hitman Ronan suffered tragedies in their lives that changed their lives forever. They met and they fell strong connection to each other. More time they spent together, they understood each other and also fell in love in the process.
I wasn't sure what I should expect but couple of reviews convinced me to read right away. So I started and finished in couple days.
This book is not what I expected and it made me wonder and question some of the POV's like who is Taylor. There were so many secrets, lies like puzzle pieces and it was solved at the end. And last chapter was even more shocking. I hope there is another book. I enjoyed it and this is first time reading.this author and I enjoyed it.
I received this book via netgalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.

thank you to Netgalley and Moonlit Graves Publishing for the ARC!

is this book high literature? absolutely the fuck not. is it an absolute blast with a ton of twists that I devoured in about two hours? well, yes!

I do find it genuinely endearing that I think the only characters in this book are:
1. the dark romance murdercouple
2. truly awful straight men who only exist to bother the murdercouple, who then murders and/or tortures them
3. very cool lesbians/bi ladies

also did the author watch Supernatural because Sylvie (I LOVE HER??? I am shocked by how much I enjoyed a character in this silly book) is soooo Charlie Bradbury

This story is full of secrets, lies, and jaw-dropping twists that kept me turning the pages late into the night. The pacing never let up, and every revelation pulled me deeper in. Suspenseful and addictive all the way through.

Alright, I just devoured this book and WOW! 🤯 If you're craving something dark, twisted, and utterly addictive, this is it. Veronica's husband's "solution" to his infidelity is wild, and it throws her right into the path of Ronan, a hitman with an undeniable, scorching connection. 🔥 Seriously, their chemistry is off the charts, but the suspense with the murders and secrets? It's a total mind-bender. This book is NOT for the faint of heart (in the best way!), but if you love a morally gray heroine, a dangerous hero, and a plot that keeps you guessing until the very last page, you absolutely have to pick this up. So good! ❤️

If you frame a hitman for murders he actually committed, is it technically framing?

First of all, this was a wonderful debut. Seriously. I had so much fun reading this--it's engaging, it's fun, it's an enjoyable very funny captivating read.
-----------
He's a hitman set on offing the DA, she's married to the DA, what could go wrong??
Richard, a corrupt DA mid-reelection campaign, caught cheating by his wife, books her a hotel stay, and has the audacity to set her up on a line of dates that he so chooses -- so that they could "get past this", but Veronica ain't an idiot, she knows what she's worth, and she's got plans of her own.
This man sees her once, says nothing, and immediately decides she’s his. If that sounds horrifying, fair. If you're willing to enter “lol okay delusional hitman in love??” mode -- congrats, you're about to have a great time.
-----------
Sidenote -- this book is pitched as “Adult fiction, Mystery & Thriller, Romance" (in that order) -- and while the mystery/thriller parts are definitely there, they don’t really hit full force until about the 60% mark. Before that, it’s mostly romance with a vibe of “something is going on, but don’t worry about it yet.” -- But that didn't bother me cause I was already fully invested 10% in and the mystery elements that creeped in slowly had me guessing, theorizing, oooing and noooing early on. It was genuinely a really good satisfying read. Still, if you're expecting nonstop action, know that this leans heavily romance.

The book also uses multiple POVs, something I am usually not a fan of, but it was done really well here -- I was happy when the pov shifted, each shift felt satisfying and like it was exactly what I needed at that moment from the book -- this book was really good pacing/structure wise

If you like dark romance with emotional mess, complicated characters, and a plot that slowly opens up and twists around itself, I think you'll enjoy this as much as I did.
------------------
Also, side note? Ronan seems like kind of a terrible hitman with terrible opsec. But he’s got baby-blue eyes and I'll take it Veronica dw
------------------

Her husband cheats. His fix? Let her stray—while he watches. But when she meets Ronan, a hitman with secrets, their affair spirals into danger, disappearances, and murder.

OHHHH MY DANG, did I eat this book up! I finished the entire thing in a little over a day, which I don’t normally do, since I have two feral boys at home and work a full time job. This book is THAT GOOD! It has literally everything a romance/thriller reader like me loves. Suspense? CHECK. A smoking hot morally grey man? CHECK. TWISTS ON TWISTS ON TWISTS?! CHECKKKKK. I will absolutely be buying the physical copy is this beauty when it is released because I need a trophy for this masterpiece!

This book was amazing. This spicy romantic suspense had be turning the pages faster than ever. First off I loved the writing, it really pulled you in on the first chapter. The suspense starting from the beginning hooked me. Also love the short chapters, just something I enjoy. The twists and turns in this book were a complete mind blow and caught me off guard.

Veronica Sullivan the wife of DA Richard, catches her husband cheating. He has something to help “save” their marriage and very unconventional. Veronica stays at a hotel and prepares for dates with other men to essentially call it even with Richard but the games have just begun. Veronica meets Ronan the hitman ordered to kill Richard, and they have an immediate connection and Veronica can’t seem to stay away from him. They have their own secrets proving some secrets can never stay buried no matter how hard you try.

This book was absolutely amazing, I was hooked from the very beginning! The chapters were short and are written in multi POV. Which is my favorite style of writing. The book does have some pretty spicy scenes and a jaw dropping ending. READ READ READ this book!

Handsome hitman and scorned woman fall in love and they want the bad guys to pay for their crimes. This was sexy and thrilling and full of twists. I was hooked and could not put this down. The epilogue was intriguing and I see another book on the horizon for this author. Fantastic read.

Thank you NetGalley and Moonlit Graves Publishing for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This profanity laced psychological thriller will keep you turning the pages. The characterizations and plot twist are well written. There are a lot of different things going on in the story. I was given a complementary copy of this book and opinions are my own.

When broken, damaged people meet a corrupt, power-mad man sparks fly, and not all of them in the fun, sexy way.

In a city that is besieged by someone murdering young women, Veronica gives her District Attorney husband Richard Sullivan, a lot of latitude, people are scared, and this makes for late nights at the office...or does it. Veronica finds proof that he is having an affair with his young secretary Olivia and confronts him about it, finally she will have a way out of this relationship that is no longer working for her. What she doesn't expect, is Richard sending her to a hotel to have an affair of her own to balance the scales. Richard will set up dates for her to accomplish this.

Veronica understandably needs a drink after everything that transpired and sits in the hotel bar, where she locks eyes with a blue-eyed stranger. She imagines being with someone new could be fun, but then is approached by a boring suit guy, that tells her Richard sent him. She dismisses him but it's too late, blue eyes is gone.

Meanwhile, Ronan receives a list of names of people that need to be 'taken care of', culminating in a very prominent member of the city. He puts his confidant and tech support agent, Sylvie in charge of research and surveillance, and the levels of corruption she uncovers just makes him that much more interested in completing his task.

But then Ronan and Veronica's paths cross and the sparks that fly are impossible to extinguish. Richard continues to behave in more despicable fashion setting up a somewhat ridiculous yet satisfying comeuppance.

This book was at turns ridiculous, sexy, frustrating and so unrealistic and yet I enjoyed it overall. Great literature, no. Great fun, sure.

Usually I don't really take on dark romance books because well...no one would like a romance like that in real life so when I dive in one of these, it's a no thoughts, empty brain exercise for me. With this I am not saying they are bad books, just they are not for ME.
However, I really liked the thriller side, action and twists of this one. I think the pace it's perfect, the amount of information that it's released every chapter it's perfect to keep you enganged and hooked (worked for me for sure because I couldn't put this down). And the three POVs make everything click perfectly.
I would say what I like the least about the book it's the main couple. I am not sure why, I just didn't vibe with them together I guess. Also there's one spicy scene...yeah, nope. I had to backtrack and reread to be sure I read correctly what had just happened.
Overall is a really fun and entertaining book honestly.

This was a great book. I loved every paragraph, every sentence and every word of this masterpiece! I read it in 12 hours, which is a lot for me to do! It had everything and more laid out in the novel! I sure hope There is more to come from this author! I am totally hooked!

Beneath Your Lies is a terriffic debut novel from Nicole J Owens, She describes it as 'a spicy romantic suspense' in her afterward, and it's certainly all that and then some.
The book is a page-turner with often literal twists, turns and contortions on every page. A great read.

WOW — this ARC. Beneath Your Lies by @Author -Nicole J. Owens had me hooked from page one. Suspense, romance, plot twists, secrets, strong FMC, "touch her and die" MMC...I was on the edge of my seat the whole time.

Veronica discovers her husband's cheating - and his solution? She should have an affair of her own - with conditions. Along this crazy twisty journey she meets Ronan, a hitman.

Their chemistry? Off the charts.
The spice? Intoxicating.
The twists? Nail biting.
The suspense? Gripping.
The ending? Still in awe.

If you love suspense + romance + shocking twists, you need this book on your TBR.

Feeling like I found a gem reading this book. Had A LOT more spice than I was anticipating but I’m not mad about it. I really believe the cover threw me off and I was expecting it to be more thriller/mystery heavy but the spice in this was amazing.

If you watched “The Hunting Wives” on Netflix and are a fan of Frieda McFadden and the “Made” series by Danielle Lori - this is the book for you. This is a plot twist filled spiderweb and by the end you see where each point intersects. Throughout the book you’re seeing these POV chapters from a character who had not been introduced but it’s easy to guess who the individual really is. However, by the end you’re seeing all of these plot twists play out and boy, do they keep on comin’.

This is very much a insta-love kind of read that is borderline obsessive but sometimes, the man really does need to fall (obsess) first. The MMC is absolutely a morally grey type of guy (and the FMC starts to slowly show her shades of grey throughout) but you’re routing for them anyways.

I am not a proud member of the “Richard needs to die” fanclub because that man had me FUMING. I loved the thriller aspect to this and was actually invested in how everything played out. This was the type of book I was thinking about when I wasn’t actively reading.

As a girl who doesn’t normally read epilogues (I know, I’m sorry) I am telling you the epilogues of this is a MUST read because it will leave you wanting book 2 even more.

This book was such a wild ride! I honestly didn’t expect to get pulled in so quickly, but once I started, I couldn’t put it down. It strikes that perfect balance between story and spice: the chemistry between Veronica and Ronan is absolutely electric, but what I loved most is that the heat never overshadowed the actual plot. Every scene served the thriller-meets-crime-meets-romance vibe the book was going for.

Richard, as the villain, was chillingly well done. That mix of power, control, and his influence over the city’s elites made him the kind of antagonist you love to hate. Meanwhile, Veronica and Ronan’s dual POV gave such depth to their story. Two broken people finding each other amidst secrets, lies, and danger. Their connection felt raw and magnetic, and the way their past tragedies shaped them made me root for them even harder.

The pacing was quick and intense, a blend of the predictable and the surprising (that last chapter left my jaw on the floor). The puzzle of secrets and lies unraveled beautifully, and though I saw some turns coming, others completely caught me off guard.

It's gripping, sultry, and suspenseful. It’s a genre-blending story that keeps you hooked until the very end. Definitely one I’d recommend if you love romance tangled up with danger, dark secrets, and a touch of shock factor.

My copy of this book was provided by NetGalley and Moonlit Graves Publishing for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

“…a woman’s fury is patient. It’s silent. It’s cunning. What is that saying? Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.”

Excuse me, how is this her debut novel. Literally could not put it down. The twist at the end, perfect and jaw dropping. Seriously loved this book so much!

Veronica and Ronan, Lordy be. They were perfect. The built up tension and the fact that they recognized the darker parts in each other: it was like fated mates.

This book felt like a contemporary romance, mixed into dark romance and I ate it up! The way this man was possessive from the first look was everything. And Veronica being just as obsessed was the cherry on top. I loved the different POV’s and really not knowing where the story was leading to. It was the perfect setup for the ending.

I can’t wait to see what you write next!

Tropes:
❤️Dark romance
🐍Romantic suspense
❤️Touch her and ☠️ vibes
🐍Revenge and secrets
❤️Twists and turns
🐍He falls first
❤️Female rage and revenge
🐍Slow burn romance
❤️Twist ending

This was a book that kept me sooo interested! I absolutely loved the story line. The characters all had their own stories to tell, but tied together so beautifully. There was some spice, as well as some twists and turns. It was a great combination of smut and thriller!

Rating: 4.25/5

This book was such a fun surprise for me. It’s first and foremost a thriller/mystery, which I loved. It felt like a puzzle I had to solve, and I was completely hooked from the get go. This was one of those books where I found myself ignoring my to-do list because I just wanted to keep reading and piece everything together. There was something about this book that reminded me of Butcher & Blackbird minus the gore and humor.

The tension between Veronica and Ronan was another highlight. Their chemistry really jumped off the page, and while I wouldn’t have minded a few more spicy scenes, that’s only because the ones we got were so good. I actually appreciate that the author didn’t throw in unnecessary spice just for the sake of it. Every moment between them felt intentional and helped move the story forward, which I think made those scenes hit even harder.

Were there moments that felt predictable? Sure. A couple of the secrets I guessed before they were revealed. But even with that, there was one twist that completely caught me off guard and left me grinning—I love when a book surprises me like that. It also made me really curious to see where Owens might take this story next, because there’s definitely room for more.

All in all, this was such a quick, engrossing read with the perfect mix of mystery and romance. If you’re looking for a thriller that keeps you turning the pages and gives you just enough heat to make things interesting, this one’s worth picking up.

*Arc review*

Story: 5 ⭐️’s
Spice: 3 🌶️’s

Beneath Your Lies is a debut book written by Nicole Owens. It is stand alone contemporary romantic thriller that could easily be turned into a series. It’s tropes include:

✅ Love Triangle
✅ Fleeing abuse
✅ Insta-Obsession
✅ Stalking
✅ Morally Grey MC’s
✅ Hitman MMC
✅ Touch her and 💀
✅ Tragic backstories
✅ Hurt comfort
✅ Feminine rage
✅ Plot Twists
✅ An ending that leave you thinking about it after your finished reading.

The book is about a young woman named Veronica’s who’s in an age gap marriage to a powerful district attorney. He’s up for reflection when she uncovers he is having an affair with his secretary. In order to maintain his public image and save his marriage, he develops a plan to orchestrate Veronica’s own affair, under his supervision.

Her husband plan to let her have an affair turns out to be the worst one ever, when Veronica accidentally meets a hot hitman named Ronan. Ronan is the perfect morally grey book boyfriend, hot, tattooed, mysterious, and immediately obsessed with her. This of course angers her D-bag, unappreciative husband. This love triangle leads all of them into a web where their secrets and dark pasts threaten to upturn all of their lives.

Overall I was super impressed with how this story unfolded. The entire book is smart and well written and the ending was completely unexpected. Ronon was completely swoon worthy, and Veronica completely surprised me by the end. I am eager for more from this author, as well as for some character art. Because wow! I NEED to see Ronon for myself! ☺️


I received this book as an advanced reader through NetGalley, in exchange for its honest review. Thank you to the author or and publisher for the book.

beneath your lies- nicole j. owens🐍

WOW! i am gobsmacked. this was an arc copy that i got from netgalley and i am SO glad, i got to read this! a debut also, i believe?! and what a debut indeed😮‍💨🔥

my mind?! BLOWN. i am actually SPEECHLESS. but i also have SO MUCH to say and it’s not often a book leaves me like this🤯

i.. i? erm WHAT!!! plot twist, after plot twist, AFTER PLOT TWIST! and i think i maybe figured one out along the way? but i’m not even sure anymore because THIS WAS INSANE. i couldn’t place this book down, HOOKED is an understatement.

i wanna say dark romance/mystery/suspense?! INCREDIBLE. I ATE THIS UP. like, YOU NEED TO ADD THIS TO YOUR TBRS IMMEDIATELY. this hitttttt!!! reading slump? who is she??? I READ THIS IN A DAY!😮‍💨

ronan??? YES SIR.
VERONICA?!?! whaaaaaat!!! ain’t nothing like a woman scorned, lemme tell you, she is a CLEVER WOMAN.

i absolutely LOVED LOVED LOVED THIS!🔥

•★ ★ ★ ★ ★
•🌶️🌶️🌶️

•releases- september 23, 2025!💫
•available on ku: ☑️

(as always, check your triggers peoples!🫶🏼)

Beneath Your Lies is an absolutely gripping thriller that had me hooked from page one. Nicole Owens weaves together suspense, secrets, and unexpected twists so seamlessly that I couldn’t put it down. The characters feel real, layered with flaws and hidden motives that kept me second-guessing everyone. Just when I thought I had the story figured out, Owens threw in another twist that left me stunned. The pacing is sharp, the writing is addictive, and the tension builds to a jaw-dropping conclusion. If you love thrillers that keep you on the edge of your seat and make you question who you can really trust, this book is a must-read!

***I would like to thank NetGalley, this debut author, and the publishers for an arc of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Wow!!!

I’m not typically a fan of suspense/thriller types of books, but I could not stop reading this one. Of course I snagged a copy of this accidentally during a busy week with little down time, but I found myself taking breaks where I could to get a quick chapter in because each chapter left me hanging. I love a book with short chapters because I hate stopping mid-chapter. I also LOVVVVE when each chapter ends with me wanting more more more!!

I cannot believe this book was a debut because it was written so well. I loved the multiple POV written in first person. I loved not knowing where the twists would be and having my mind go everywhere trying to come up with the ending in my head. I changed my mind so many times, and I figured a few things out…but the way all the puzzle pieces fit together in the end was mind blowing! 🤯 I really enjoyed it!

You know what I loved the most about this suspense/thriller novel? The romance thrown in there!! I was not expecting that at all!! It was more of a dark romance than a thriller honestly. The way our morally gray FMC & MMC fell into each other’s lives was epic, and their connection was so intense that I simply couldn’t get enough. The spice was delicious, and not at all over-the-top. It added to the story instead of becoming the story, and it ignited the chemistry.

The characters were developed so well that I really couldn’t stand the thought of anything happening to them. I knew with this type of book that anything could happen to anyone at any moment, so I tried not to get attached…but Ronan & Veronica?? Loveddddd them!!! I usually figure everything out in books like these, but for some reason I did not with this one. One of the characters is introduced throughout the book in the past, and I couldn’t place where that character would fit into the story until the end. Again, the puzzle pieces fitting together at the end made my head spin.

Do not sleep on this suspense romance!!! There is violence, murder, drugs/alcohol/addiction, child abuse, spice, morally gray characters, and adultery in this book. If you can handle all of that, then this book is definitely for you!! I will be recommending to all once this one comes out.

I feel like this book could be the next booktok favourite! Veronica is "allowed" an affair under her husband's (the State's District Attorney) supervision after she found out about his infidelity in a desperate attempt to save face. She meets Ronan, someone she feels an immediate connection with, who turns about to be a hitman. Veronica gets tangled up in a web of secrets, trying to navigate between her newfound affair and her husband's rules.

If you like books such as "Lights out" by Navessa Allen & "Butcher & Blackbird" by Brynne Weaver, or even Freida McFadden, this could be the next book for you! It is fast-paced, and problems don't linger too long as they are resolved quickly. With the right characters being likeable and creating a strong dislike for the "bad" characters, it is a book that is difficult to put down and turns into a quick read.

The book was a bit insta-lovey for me, whereas I prefer a slow burn, which is reflected in my overall opinion about the book... Some things happened a bit too quickly for my liking and could've taken more time or pages. Overall, I would give this book 3.75 stars, and I'm very impressed with this author's debut novel.

As with every dark romance, make sure to read the trigger warnings before starting this book!

Beneath Your Lies by Nicole J. Owens was a dark, addictive read that I devoured. It’s part psychological suspense, part dark romance, with just the right mix of tension, secrets, and heat. Owens gives us female rage, forbidden love, revenge, and healing—all wrapped in a storyline that bridges thriller, crime, and romance.

The characters are layered and complex, especially the main duo whose chemistry is undeniable. I also loved the sharp side characters, who added depth without pulling focus. The atmosphere is tense and unsettling, and the twists had me hooked, even when I thought I had it figured out. Some parts in the middle slowed down a little, and a few moments stretched believability, but overall this was such a fun, gripping read.

If you like your suspense with dark romance, emotional stakes, and a dash of spice, this one is absolutely worth picking up. I’ll definitely be reading more from Owens.

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!

🌟4🌟 To say I’m shocked that this is Nicole J. Owens’ debut novel would be an understatement… She has truly outdone herself here!

Thank you to NetGalley for providing this ARC!

I immediately fell in love with Owens’ writing style - for me it perfectly mixed metaphorical language with witty and punchy humour, which I believe worked really well for Veronica’s character in particular. Her writing is so addicting to read, I don't believe I've ever flown through a book so fast!

Typically, I truly dislike male characters who center themselves around protecting female characters that they’ve just met (almost like they’re damsels in distress), but Owens’ writing was so good that I was able to enjoy Ronan’s character type more that I usually would.

My only gripe would be that Veronica and Ronan’s relationship felt more lustful than anything else, so it was a tad unbelievable to me that they were falling in love so hard and fast - though, I am aware that I’m normally never able to believe when characters “fall in love” very quickly, so this may just be a personal gripe of mine. However, I’m glad that both Veronica and Ronan weren’t overly delusional and were cognisant enough to recognise that they’re both as insane as each other.

Although I predicted one plot twist, the other left me utterly shocked which was incredibly satisfying. And, I love how the ending could lend itself to a sequel, though even as a stand-alone it works very well too.

Overall, I am thoroughly impressed by this debut and am so excited to read her subsequent releases! (I could quite literally feel that this was going to be at least a 4-star read while I was barely 3 chapters into the book!)

TW: Domestic Violence, Murder, Death, Infidelity, Blood, Torture, Age Gap Relationship, Child Abuse, Kidnapping, Gun Violence, Cursing, Injury/Injury Detail, Sexual Content, (Minor Mentions of:) Car Accident; Death of Parent; Drug Use; Animal Death; Miscarriage; Alcoholism; Vomit

Thank you to NetGalley and Moonlit Graves Publishing for an arc in exchange for my honest opinion!

WOWWWW WHAT A DEBUT NOVEL 👏🏻
This has me absolutely hooked from the very beginning. I couldn’t wait to see how this story played out and I was not disappointed!!! Veronica is such a bad bitch and I STAND BY HER 1000%. Her and Ronan had so much chemistry on these pages I could feel it!!!! I already cannot wait to read more of this authors work and I want to be first in line for whatever book she comes out with next! This was such a fun read. I need a physical copy of this as a bookshelf trophy IMMEDIATELY!!!!!

“I’m still not sure that I’m worthy of you, but I’d do anything to be. Being with you feels like coming home for the first time. To a real home. A happy home with a family.” BRB CRYING!!!!

Loved this. 4.25 stars. 🌟

Fast passed suspense dark romance, with fun twists and plot. This was an easy read and great pallet cleanser that I enjoyed. Hitman romance, cheating trope, and mystery that keeps you turning the page.

Started off a bit slow, but once it found its rhythm, it really picked up. The final few twists were especially well done—unexpected and gave the book a strong finish. Definitely worth sticking with if you enjoy a story that builds momentum and delivers a punch at the end.

This is so good. There's enough hidden background and history to keep you turning pages hoping for answers. The spice and romance between the mmc and fmc is palpable and the last quarter of the book had me biting my nails, kicking my legs and squealing antsy to see how it would all turn out. I don't always love touch her and die in contemporary romance but it works so well here. Thanks so much to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the arc.

This book is perfect for those who love smut and suspenseful stories. Full of twists and turns, with a strong FMC. Some portions of the book were a tad predictable and even a little cheesy, but I also wasn't sure where the story was headed until the very end.

**I received this as an ARC**

I LOVED THIS BOOK!!! This gave me similar vibes to Under Your Scars, but not as much emotional damage at the end. Veronica and Ronan have a beautiful story and the ending? There were twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. And it’s set up perfectly for a sequel, but I don’t feel like it’s needed and I’d feel complete with or without one.

A suspense story unfolds when a wife confronts her husband about his affair. Some lies and secrets follow us. Loved it!

“We’re always taught to fear the loudest person in the room. but the truth is, you should be more afraid of the quiet ones”

Let me just say this is an amazing debut novel! A fantastic writing style that was easy to follow!

This book is perfect if you love suspense and mystery with your romance. There are twist and turns constantly. You know something is coming but what is hard to guess! And I love that!

It had all the things:
Suspense
Amazing side characters
A captivating romance
Revenge

I couldn’t put this down and finished it in less than 24 hours. Pick it up and give it a try you won’t regret it!

Thank you to NetGalley, Nicole J. Owens, and Moonlit Graves Publishing for the opportunity to read Beneath Your Lies Early!

I thought this was a fantastic read. The spice was great and on point. I loved the plot and cover, which is what instantly drew me to the book. Every chapter has great detail and length. I really enjoyed reading this and look forward to reading more by the author in the future. This was my first NetGalley read/experience and it did not disappoint.

A sizzling debut novel by Nicole J Owens! Beneath Your Lies hooked me with its fast pace, sharp writing, and the steamy and dangerous chemistry between Veronica and Ronan. At the same time, the jumpy structure and over-the-top drama sometimes pulled me out of the story, even with the wildly entertaining ride it exuded overall.

This story followed Veronica Sullivan, the polished wife of a rising District Attorney, uncovered her husband’s affair just as he was fighting for re-election. To protect his image, he suggested she take a lover of his choice—but instead, Veronica fell into a dangerous entanglement with Ronan, a brooding hitman. He pulled her into a web of passion, secrets, and murder.

Collectively, Beneath Your Lies delivered a dark, fast-paced mix of romance and suspense, followed Veronica Sullivan as her husband’s betrayal pushed her into a dangerous affair with a hitman that spiraled into secrets and murder. I was drawn in by the sharp, witty writing and addictive pacing, along with the explosive chemistry between the leads, though at times the fragmented structure and over-the-top drama kept it from feeling fully grounded. Still, this was a compulsively readable, twisty ride that balanced passion, betrayal, and danger in a way that kept me hooked. Looking forward to reading more by Owens!

Thank you Net Galley and Moonlit Graves Publishing for gifting me an advance copy in exchange for my review.

Beneath Your Lies was such a wild ride. It’s dark, messy, addictive, and honestly nothing like I expected. Veronica and Ronan’s story is full of secrets, betrayal, and that kind of dangerous chemistry you just know is going to explode.

It definitely leans into the darker side of romance, but that’s what made it so gripping — I couldn’t stop turning the pages. Twists, drama, passion, lies, unaliving people… it’s all there.

If you’re into romantic suspense with a psychological edge (and you don’t mind things getting a little morally grey), this one is worth picking up.

Beneath Your Lies by Nicole J. Owens is, what I’d describe as, a dark romance thriller that had me glued to its pages. The book started off a touch slow and I needed a minute to straighten out the characters. Once it got going, though, I couldn’t put it down. I have a strict “no reading before bed” rule because I know I’ll stay up too late. I broke that rule and stayed up way too late because I just had to finish it. Veronica and Ronan are filled with secrets, bodies are dripping like flies, and the twists and turns are aplenty. Though some of the twists can be guessed, they are still so fun when revealed. Finally, the spicy scenes are on point. I am hoping for another in this series and can’t wait to read it.

Thank you to NetGalley and Moonlit Graves Publishing for entrusting me with an ARC of this twisty, fun read. I had no idea when I started this debut novel by Nicole J. Owens that I would LOVE this book. Not only have I found a new favorite MMC and power couple, but she definitely left me wanting more!

This book had me hooked from the very first page and I honestly couldn’t put it down. The mix of suspense, secrets, and tension kept everything so intense that I flew through it. Veronica and Ronan had an incredible chemistry that felt raw and powerful, and I loved every moment they shared. The multiple POVs added so much depth, and the way everything clicked together at the end was just brilliant. The writing was smooth, fast paced, and completely addictive. The final chapter left me in shock and already wishing for a sequel. Thank you so much to the author and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving a honest review

Oh. My. God!! Move over HD Carlton, there is a new dark romance suspense author in town! This book was SERIOUSLY one of the best ones I've ever read. I loved how it was such a good balance of spicy but suspense. Had me on the edge of my seat the whole time and the twists were just *chefs kiss*. Hopefully there is a second book coming out because I need more!! Thank you for this opportunity to read ARC of this title!

3.75 stars rounded up

Beneath Your Lies is a fast-paced, spicy, suspense romance that takes you on a ride filled with lots of twists and turns. I would recommend this book for anyone looking for a good mix of genres and is ok with some spice.

It’s told in multi-POV which was helpful with connecting all the dots along the way. I wasn’t expecting as much of a complex plot surrounding the romantic aspect of the story between Veronica and Ronan. The premise of them getting together because Veronica’s husband was caught cheating and he was allowing her to have her own affair was super interesting to me.

I will say that despite all the twists and turns, most were super predicable (to me) and even though there was one I didn’t see coming, it didn’t really catch me off guard with a “gotcha” but I still enjoyed it. I read pretty much in one sitting.

With that ending, are we getting a sequel or is Nicole J Owens leaving things up to our imagination? 🤔

Thanks so much to Moonlit Graves Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review.

Wow. I was completely shocked by the turn of events. You have the best feminine rage and giving hell I have seen. The instant connection between characters and the mystery is on point. Your constantly turning pages to figure out what is happening next. Addictive does not even describe the feeling of reading this book. You have just the right mix of spicy and dirty. I loved it!

It was an amazing book! Just what I was expecting and more ^_^ Such an amazing genre of romantic suspense ! Hope to find books like this because this book made me love the genre

Beneath Your Lies, by Nicole J Owens, is a gripping thriller centered around a strong FMC. It hooks you from the very start and keeps up the momentum. Twists and turns, seasoned with spice, make it a standout. And that ending...
I appreciate NetGalley and the publisher for providing the ARC ebook I read and reviewed. All opinions are my own.

4.25
I really enjoyed this book.
From the start it had me thinking and I couldn’t put it down. I was always so excited to read this book.
There’s spice & mystery, can’t believe that this is her debut!
So so good. Really recommend giving this a read!

This was a phenomenal book. It had me hooked from the beginning. At first I had no idea why there was a POV of Taylor, but I found out at the end that it was relevant. The suspense in this book was incredible and the twists at the end just tied it all up nicely. This was a brilliant read.

This was a real page-turner for me! I absolutely loved how the story kept moving—every chapter pulled me in deeper, and the pacing was spot-on. Those flashbacks worked so well, adding extra intrigue. I figured out whose they were pretty quickly, but it didn’t spoil the fun at all. What really surprised me was the main twist—I did not see that coming, and it made the whole book feel even more exciting.

On the flip side, I wasn’t a fan of how fast Veronica and Ronan’s relationship kicked off. That instant love felt a bit forced, especially when they started spilling big secrets to each other—honestly, it seemed pretty reckless and took me out of the story for a moment. Still, the tension and drama definitely made up for it.

Overall, this thriller was super entertaining, and I’d recommend it if you want a story full of surprises and great pacing. Just prepare for a romance that gets a little wild a bit too soon!

*SOME SECRETS CAN NEVER STAY BURIED... NO MATTER HOW HARD YOU TRY.*

Thank you, Moonlit Graves Publishing, for sending me this ARC.

Wow, I loved this! This book checked all the boxes for me. It is very rare for me to love a thriller as much as I enjoyed this one. It is an easy 5-star read. I was hooked as soon as I read the Prologue and couldn't put the book down until the very last page.

Beaneth Your Lies has multiple POVs and a dual timeline, which adds the right level of depth and complexity to the story. It was so fun to dissect each of the characters and figure out what role they would have.

Ronan, the MMC, was just the right mix of dark, dangerous, protective, and witty. I loved him! Veronica, the FMC, displayed ample sass and independence, making her character likable. Richard was just a d*** but necessary to the storyline. 😆 And, everyone needs a Sylvie in their lives.

The book had several other well-developed characters, each with their own storylines that contributed to the plot. I love how they all fit into the bigger picture.

Another thing I wanted to note was that this book was the perfect length—just shy of 300 pages. I love full-circle twisty thrillers like this, and it is rare for an author to capture what Nicole and her editing team did. So often, I'd love to take a red pen and eliminate 25% of those 400+ page thrillers. So thank you for executing this book seamlessly! The way everything clicked together at the end was truly brilliant.

If you love a good, fast-paced, twisty thriller filled with spice, betrayal, mystery, and strong characters- this one is for you! So many twists and turns.🔪🩸

Even if you are someone who struggles with multiple POVs, do not be discouraged. Each character is very unique, and once you find your rhythm, you will speed right through this one. Absolutely binge-worthy!

Go preorder this book...now! Highly recommend!!

Pub Date Sep 23 2025

As always, all thoughts are my own. 🖤✨

Beneath Your Lies is the kind of book that pulls you into the drama right away and keeps you hooked with its dark, suspenseful energy. It’s all about secrets, betrayal, and revenge, with two leads who are far from perfect- which honestly makes them so much more interesting to follow. I really enjoyed the morally grey vibe throughout; it made every decision feel unpredictable and kept the tension high.

The story leans into themes like female rage, obsession, and messy relationships, which gave it a bold and unapologetic tone. There were definitely a few spots where I wanted more depth — especially in understanding certain choices or getting closure on smaller plot threads- but it didn’t take away from how entertaining the ride was.

If you like dark romance that’s heavy on suspense and filled with complicated characters who blur the lines between right and wrong, this is definitely worth picking up.

Oh. My. God. I was NOT ready for this book, and it absolutely ate me alive.

At no point - zero, nada - was I able to predict what was coming. And you know what? I LOVED every second of it.
Nicole crafted a story that’s so detailed, so addictive, so ruthless...and still managed to leave me sitting there like… what the hell just happened??

Now let’s talk about the actual book: if you love badass women, revenge served ice cold, and just the right sprinkle of smut… you're in for a ride.
You’re not reading this - you’re being dragged through it by the throat, and you won’t see a single twist coming.

This is a story about revenge (the kind that takes years to simmer) and a brutal reminder that there’s always more going on beneath the surface. Full of layered characters (except Richard, the human definition of useless). Multiple POVs were such a smart move; it's like watching a movie play in your brain, and every perspective adds fuel to the fire.

And the smut? Written by a woman, thank GOD. It’s the perfect amount, enough to make you blush and breathe, but not so much that you forget this is still a ruthless, twisty revenge story at its core.

In conclusion: Nicole, ma’am, what did you just do to my brain?

spicy and romantic with a touch of suspense!!!! i loved this book, and would certainly recommend to others!!! very well written :)

I am genuinely so surprised that this is a debut novel because I struggled to put it down! It was fast-paced and full of twists and turns.

Beneath Your Lies had me feeling all types of emotions, from rage, all the way up to it making me kick my little leggies because let me tell you, I loved Ronan and thought the chemistry he had with Veronica was brilliant!

I really enjoyed this book, and it turned out to be such a pleasant surprise. I didn’t expect such a powerful twist, which made the story even more gripping and impossible to put down.

This story definitely deserves a place on the shelf of every thriller lover, as it offers both gripping suspense and powerful emotional moments.

Thank you, NetGalley, for the chance to read this book ahead of its release.

#NetGalley #beneathyourlies

A gripping debut that blends dark romance with suspenseful twists. Veronica's journey from betrayal to empowerment is both intense and captivating. The chemistry between her and Ronan is undeniable, and the plot keeps you on the edge of your seat. Owens masterfully weaves themes of revenge, trust, and healing into a story that's hard to put down. Fans of dark romance and thrillers will find this a compelling read.

This book is the perfect blend of thriller, mystery, romance, and suspense—crafted in a way that will keep you up well past your bedtime because you simply cannot put it down.

Told through multiple points of view, each chapter shifts to a different character, complete with its own beautifully illustrated header. This structure allows the story to build seamlessly, introducing each character’s backstory while gradually weaving their timelines together into a rich, interconnected narrative.

And those final chapters—what a ride! The twists, the turns, and the masterful way every storyline comes together in one perfectly tied bow…absolutely brilliant.

I read this book in one sitting—it’s dark, twisty, and full of deeply flawed characters. While some parts felt predictable for the genre, there were still a few surprises that kept me engaged. Most of the characters (with the exception of Sylvie and Lauren) weren’t particularly likable, yet I still found myself eager to see how everything unfolded.

I was shocked when I saw that this is a debut novel. Nicole J. Owens writes with the kind of confidence and fluidity you’d expect from a seasoned author. The prose is immersive, the pacing is on point, and the story flows effortlessly from beginning to end. I love a good twist in a book and Owens delivered many. Some I did guess but it didn’t take away from the story as there were other things I was completely surprised by.

Beneath Your Lies is a sexy, dark romantic suspense that kept me hooked from the very first page. Veronica and Ronan both have dark secrets and an insatiable draw to each other. Yes, their relationship falls into instalove territory, but in the world of dark romance where obsession is often part of the draw, it works.

I devoured this in under two days and I’m so excited to see where Nicole J. Owens goes from here. She has all the makings of a breakout voice in dark romance.

Highly recommend if you’re into suspenseful, steamy romance with a darker edge.

Thank you NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for an honest review

thank you netgalley and the publishers for lending me and eARC in exchange for an honest review.

HOLY COW

the twists. the turns. the revenge. the reveals. the SPICE.

I ATE THIS UP. devoured from the moment i started, it pulled me in. honestly, read the trigger warnings. this is a dark/mystersy/suspense book. and if that sounds like your genre - add this to your tbr now and thank me later.

Beneath Your Lies by Nicole J. Owens

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Beneath Your Lies was everything I love in a romantic suspense—fast-paced, intriguing, and deliciously spicy. Nicole J. Owens did such a great job balancing the suspense and tension with sizzling chemistry, making it impossible to put down. The twists kept me guessing, while the romance pulled me in even deeper. I was completely hooked from the very first chapter and loved how the danger and desire played off each other perfectly.
Even more impressive—this is Owens’s debut novel, and it feels polished, addictive, and so well-executed. I can’t wait to see what she writes next!

Thank you NetGalley and Moonlit Graves publishing for the ARC.

“Revenge is an act of passion; vengeance of justice. Injuries are revenged; crimes are avenged". -Samual Johnson

In this spicy romantic suspense, our main character Veronica learns that her husband Richard, State District Attorney has been…. you guessed it, sleeping with his secretary. *GASP* 😱
I promise this is the LEAST shocking element of this book.

In an attempt to salvage his marriage and public image, Richard proposes an unconventional solution: Veronica may partake in her own affair.
In his mind, after said affair, they will be “even” and will live happily ever after together. Oh Richard 🙄. For being Ivy League educated you really are quite dense.

Enter Ronan- the character who seasoned this book perfectly 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

The twists were twisty, the spice was spicy and the revenge was *chefs Kiss*

Overall I was really impressed with this authors debut novel!

Thank you to NetGalley and Moonlit Graves Publishing for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Beneath Your Lies is dark, sultry, and completely addictive. Owens weaves a story of betrayal, forbidden passion, and dangerous secrets that had me hooked from the very first page. Veronica and Ronan’s chemistry is explosive, the twists are relentless, and the tension never lets up. A perfect blend of suspense and romance that kept me breathless until the end.

**Thank you NetGalley for this book in exchange for an honest review**

This book was on point. I can honestly say i didn't see those twists and turns coming, and I loved it.

Hell hath no fury, then a woman scorned and daammmmnn did Veronica knock it out the park! Then comes Ronan 🔥💕

This book is dark, dysfunctional on so many levels but gripping, I loved it!

Now Olivia......does she have what it takes to mess with the power house of Veronica and Ronan???

This was my first NetGalley ARC and it did not disappoint! I was immediately hooked after reading the synopsis and my interest was continually piqued as I read the first few chapters. This is definitely a dark romance with multiple twists and turns that keep the reader hooked. I did not see the ending coming and was pleasantly surprised once everything came together. If you’ve read Butcher and Blackbird, you’ll love this book!

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Beneath Your Lies by Nicole J. Owens — thank you to NetGalley, Moonlit Graves Publishing, and of course the author herself for the chance to read it early.

From the very first page, this story grabs you and doesn’t let go. The pacing is relentless — fast, sharp, and impossible to put down. I picked it up one afternoon thinking I’d just start a few chapters… and before I knew it, I had finished the entire book in record time. Honestly, it’s one of the fastest books I’ve ever read.

This book delivers all the hallmarks of a dark romantic suspense — betrayal, obsession, morally grey choices, and secrets that refuse to stay buried. And just when you think you’ve got it figured out, the twists hit and change everything. Veronica’s marriage-of-convenience-turned-nightmare and her entanglement with Ronan, the hitman with his own scars, kept the tension high and the surprises coming.

For a debut, this feels incredibly polished. Owens writes with confidence — weaving together danger, passion, betrayal, and twists that strike at the perfect moment. I cannot wait to see what Nicole J. Owens writes next.

Wow what can I say! This book was an ARC read provided by NetGalley and I'm so glad I was given the opportunity to read this book..

From the offset, this book was filled with suspense and drama! It was fast paced, had short chapters (always a win from me!) and had me hooked from the first page! And to top off the amazing read, it had SPICE - something I haven't seen in suspense/thriller books before!

If you are looking for a book that has you gripped from the start with amazing main characters, this one is for you!

Out 23rd September 2025!

What a wild ride!

Veronica finds herself in a rather unique situation after her husband's infidelity comes to light and he sends her off to a hotel for a while so she can get a few things "out of her system". Enter Ronan, the devilishly handsome hit man, who falls head over heels for Veronica the moment he lays eyes on her.

The way the author describes the attraction between the MCs is hypnotic and refreshing to read. I do usually prefer more spice in my books and think that this book would've benefited from a touch more, but the insane plot is the real selling point. Nothing in this book is what it seems, and I was left guessing until the very end.

I really hope there's more to come, there has to be right?!

🥀 Suspense
☠️ Morally Grey MMC
🥀 Light(ish) Stalking
☠️ Revenge
🥀 Dark Secrets
☠️ Touch Her and Bye

This is not a particularly dark but check TWs just in case.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶

Veromica Sullivan is the young beautiful wife of Richard, a State District Attorney who is up for re-election. Veronica knows that Richard has been cheating on her and when she confronts him, he comes up with a bizarre plan where Veronica can have an affair herself to aid them in saving their dwindling marriage. However, this will only occur under Richard’s supervision, this guy is an absolute manipulative, and dominant control freak.

After a first disastrous attempt at this scenario Vanessa meets Ronan and this is where the story really talks off. Dark, dangerous, brooding and unbelievably attractive Vanessa is immediately drawn to him. I am not usually a romance person but once I started this book, I was hooked. I loved the relationship between Veronica and Ronan; they go through so much together. Ronan may be the hard man but believe me, Veronica is full of strength and courage, she is one feisty lady

The book grips you from the first page with an excellent plot that moves fast along with twists and turns, weaving a tapestry of suspense that keeps you guessing to the very last chapter. I could not stop turning the pages, I had to know how this was all going to resolve and what happened was not what I expected but very satisfying. For a debut novel, the author has done a fantastic job, and I will be looking out for more books from her. Thoroughly enjoyed it.

Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy, all opinions expressed are mu own.

Beneath Your Lies is thrilling and exciting, following a young woman forced to deal with the expectations of being married to an older man who prides himself on his work as the District Attorney. Veronica was living the perfect life, much to the dismay of the people around her. When she finds out her husband has been cheating on her, Veronica's whole world implodes. Richard, her husband, cares more about his reputation than his relationship, and offers a proposition that allows Veronica to get off his back.

I really enjoyed this book and I really appreciate how you are thrown headfirst into the story, and honestly the fast-paced plot never really lets up. The character and plot development was done really well, despite there being times when perspectives from shift from person-to-person and alternate between the past and current day, which was hard to follow sometimes. Besides this, I really enjoyed Veronica and Ronan's relationship and it was nice to see a fictional couple develop chemistry instead of instantly falling in love with each other.

Thank you NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book has everything I love — spice, thrill, unexpected twists, multiple POVs, time-jump chapters, and just the right amount of mystery to keep me flipping pages late into the night. I honestly didn’t want to put it down.

I was especially drawn to the FMC — she came across as strong yet mysterious, and I loved how she constantly kept me guessing about what her personality truly entailed. The MMC, on the other hand, was brooding with his walls firmly up, and I really enjoyed watching her be the one to break those walls down. Their dynamic felt addictive and made me so invested in their story.

The only reason I’m not giving it a full five stars is that the romance developed really quickly. That’s totally a personal preference, though — and honestly, I can’t even judge too hard since I fell in love with my husband after dating for just three weeks 😂.

If you enjoy romantic suspense with spice, secrets, and characters who pull you in from the very first chapter, this one is absolutely worth picking up.

Thanks so much to NetGalley and the author for the arc. Wow this was so good, I couldn’t put it down. I just love the combo of romance and suspense and this did not disappoint. I can’t believe this was the authors debut but I cannot wait for more of her writing. Just read it.

4.5⭐️. Thanks for NetGalley for this awesome thriller! This book gripped me from the very beginning and I loved it. Only reason it’s not a 5 start is because I guessed the main plot twist. Amazing book!

I gave it four stars! Very good read. I flew right through it.

This book had so many plot twists. I was psychologically mind blown. The writing was good for a debut novel. I can't wait to get my hands on a physical copy when it releases. Thank you for allowing me to review this book. It was refreshing.

4.5 🌟🤩

Wow, so umm that was crazy?

I didn’t put this book down for two consecutive business days.

The way I felt like I was the FBI trying to figure out this absolute tangled web of, lies, revenge, secrets & deceit and I’m still trying to understand how Nicole J. Owen’s was able to put this story into a book that’s about 330 pages, everything that went on was insane, the plot twists, the murder, the romance (that first scene though 🔥🥵), the who’s and the why’s, I thought I knew what was going on but there was soooo many moving parts to this story and I’m grateful I’m not dying from a cliff hanger at the end…. Oh wait… I am 😨

Cannot wait to see what happens in the next book. 💫

This book had me constantly looking for the next twist. The main characters provided some great viewpoints and insight with constant questioning of what is happening and what will happen. The pacing of the book was perfect, giving bits of information over time to try to fill in the mystery.

I couldn’t put the book down after 40% cause it was nonstop twists and suspense and mystery. I loved the characters and development of the story plus a shocking twist is always my favorite ending!

I loved this one! What a great romantic suspense. SUPER steamy - it was like a smutty thriller and I was here for it. Will definitely read more by this author.

"Alexa, remind me to read this book if my husband ever cheats on me" 🤣
Wow! My jaw was on the floor for half of this and I was cheering for the other (in a dark way? A chuckle, if you will) This was a fast and addicting read. I read it in one sitting! The twists had my adrenaline pumping.
The mmc, ronan, was everything I look forward in a book boyfriend - protective, mysterious and the banter was so clever. The fmc, Veronica, was sassy and so vindictive that she won be over instantly.

This was a cross between a dark romance and a thriller which I was not expecting but I really enjoyed! I’ve read a lot of thrillers and it’s getting easier for me to see the twists coming, but I was not able to predict any of the twists in this story. On top of that, the spicy scenes were well written. This book gripped me from the very beginning and the short chapters and fast pacing made it a quick read. I couldn’t put it down!

Dark, twisty, and addictive. The mix of suspense and romance kept me hooked, with plenty of drama and secrets to unravel. A fast, intense read that’s perfect if you like morally grey characters and high-stakes tension

LOVED THIS BOOK!!! SO glad I got the ARC. I literally tore through this, the spice was on pointtt and I loved the characters. Cannot wait for the author's next book!

Veronica Sullivan’s picture-perfect life unravels the moment she confronts her husband about his betrayal. Desperate to save his image as the State’s District Attorney, he offers her a shocking proposal: she can have an affair—so long as he controls the terms. What he didn’t anticipate, however, was who Veronica would choose to exercise that freedom with.

Enter Ronan, a morally grey assassin haunted by his past. Their connection is instant, electric, and completely addictive. Falling into lust with Ronan was a thrilling ride as a reader, and the deeper their relationship went, the more the story twisted. With disappearances and murders shaking the city, the line between truth and lies blurred at every turn.

I loved how the book constantly kept me guessing—I truly didn’t figure things out until the very end! The suspense was perfectly balanced with steamy, passionate moments that elevated the stakes even higher. If you enjoy morally complex characters, jaw-dropping twists, and spice woven into a dark, suspenseful plot, this book delivers it all.

Thank you to Nicole J. Owens, Moonlit Graves Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.

If you love morally gray men and women who refuse to be pawns, buckle up.

Veronica Sullivan is the young wife of the much older, super-influential State DA, Richard Sullivan. When Richard is caught having an affair with his even younger new secretary, he 'graciously' pushes Veronica towards an affair of her own - a 'what's good for me will be good for you' stunt to keep an even playing field, and keep himself out of the headlines. Veronica Sullivan thought escaping her manipulative husband would mean peace. Instead, she finds herself entangled with Ronan—a hitman with secrets of his own. What begins as a twisted game of tit-for-tat spirals into a suspenseful, steamy ride full of betrayal, danger, and unexpected alliances.

What I loved...

This book was gripping from the very beginning! You can tell there are secrets, and the author gives you just enough throughout the story to keep you engrossed. Our MMC is smoldering—broody, battle-worn, and surprisingly tender beneath the grit. Our FMC doesn’t flinch—she’s sharp, self-assured, and refreshingly complex. The pacing was razor-sharp, the tension deliciously taut, and the chemistry? Off the charts. It’s the kind of book that makes you forget to check the time.

What I would have liked to be different...

Honestly, there isn't anything that I didn't care for in this book. If I could tweak one thing, I’d love a deeper dive into Sylvie and Lauren’s backstories—they had intriguing potential that left me wanting more.

Sapnapolitan Score - 3.8/5
The book is a dramatic, sexy suspense that runs through the entire range of emotions a person has, from curiosity to sympathy, laced with significant anger at some of the actions and the unfairness in the stories of the characters. There's something for everyone in this gripping thriller by Nicole J. Owens, and it is intensely readable for fans of the genre. It reads like a fast-paced screenplay and has the addictive quality to it that also made Scandal a hit TV show. The protagonists, while not traditionally likeable, have layers to them which would leave any reader confused about their own opinions regarding them.

The twists and turns occurring in the story, which is deeply rooted in the greys of the criminal world, helped me keep reading even though books like these aren’t always my cup of tea. At the end of the day, I was relieved that everyone got what they deserved, neither more nor less.

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started reading Beneath Your Lies by Nicole J Owens. The story opens with Veronica, the wife of the DA, catching her husband having an affair when he makes a deal.

Veronica then meets Ronan, a beautiful and mysterious hitman who is haunted by his past. The pair are connected immediately and their dark and twisted past and present intertwined with one another.

Throughout the book, my favourite POV was Ronan’s and despite there being dual POVs and characters introduced quickly, I found myself immersed. There were short chapters throughout which kept my attention as it switched between different POVs.

I found I enjoyed the way the storyline merges and that within the first 35% of the book, there’s a dark secret that Veronica has that isn’t revealed until the end of the book (but I was mostly able to guess!) I also liked how the author quickly built up Ronan and Veronica’s relationship and was engrossed within this.

I had to admit, there were a few twists at the end that I had anticipated which I also really enjoyed. Overall, I really enjoyed Beneath Your Lies and would throughly recommend. I have rated it 3.75 on Story Graph.

Thank you to Nicola J Owens, Moonlit Graves Publishing and Net Galley for this eArc!

Veronica Sullivan has a complicated relationship with her district attorney husband, Richard. Richard is all about his image in public, but leads a very different life outside of it.

Ronan is a tall, dangerously handsome hitman who has has no time for relationships and love until he lays eyes on Veronica.

This dark romance is centered around all morally gray characters. I loved the twists to the story. When I thought I had it figured out, I was wrong.

Thanks NetGalley and Moonlight Graves Publishing for the ARC of this book!

Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the ARC!

This book was the perfect mix of mystery, thriller, and dark romance, and the twist at the end was spectacular!

The story follows the (mostly) dual narratives of Veronica and Ronan, with the occasional mysterious additional narrative of "Taylor". They cross paths after Veronica's husband, the District Attorney, is caught cheating on her and tries to save their marriage by setting her up with her own affair. Ronan has been hired as a hit man, with her husband at the bottom of his list, and after seeing a credit card charge at the hotel she's been sent to, sees her in the hotel bar.

What follows is a brilliant tale of revenge, lust, and intrigue, as Ronan tries to find out who has been setting him up for a series of murders of women in the city. Veronica faces an internal conflict between her fear of what Ronan could be capable of, and the pull she feels towards him.

The characters were excellently written, with interesting backstories and relatable motivations, and Owens has done a fantastic job getting us to root for a murderous hitman. The ending was spectacular, and the twist was shocking without being completely nonsensical. The additional Taylor narrative provides an interesting touch of mystery because, for a while, it seems completely unconnected. It was pretty clear to me early on who the patient was, but the link between that and the main story kept me guessing right to the end.

TL;DR: Absolute perfection. The spicy scenes were top-tier. 10/10 no notes.

Beneath You Lies
Nicole J.Owens
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Vibe Check: Fast paced, twisty
Hook: Fall hard for the man that is hired to unalive your controlling/ cheating husband 🔥🔥
Twists: All the characters involved in “who did it?” - In my opinion are dark and morally grey 😮
Ending: Somewhat predictable 🙊

This was an enjoyable read with well developed characters and an engaging plot. I did find myself invested and wanting to keep reading: however, there are a few minor flaws that stood; for example - Taylor’s story developed too slowly for me and it became an after thought. Even in the end when her position in the plot was explained I was still not thrilled or surprised because the story line was overpowered by the main plot. Overall, I did like to story, the romantic suspense that was delivered but it did not leave a big impact. I will definitely consider casually recommending this book to others to read w/t a side not that it bridges genre of dark romance and mystery suspense.

Thank you 😊

This was an interesting read with great characters. The plot was a bit predictable but good nonetheless. There was the right amount of steam. I was invested in the characters and enjoyed the ending.

Thank you NetGalley for this ARC.
A thoroughly entertaining book about death, love, and revenge.
There are a few twists, characters you dislike and grow to dislike them more. Enough spice to keep anyone happy. A morally grey MMC that you can’t help but like.
An enjoyable read that kept my interest from start to finish

This book was such a mind twisting ride! Loved everything about this read, the different POV’s , the way you’re reading thinking you know what’s happening only for the next chapter to rip the rug from under your feet! I’m not going leave spoilers here I just going to say, if you do not read this you will miss you on such a good story! There is some spice and violence if that is what you’re looking for but if you want something to keep you guessing pleas please! Pick this book up and find out for yourself the LIES and betrayal that keep you reading till the last page!
Thank you to Netgalley and of course
Thank you to Nicole J.Owens, you definitely now how to twist a mind

I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS!!!

This was a thriller and dark romance in one book which for me is *chef's kiss*.

It took me a while to review because of a lot of ARC's, but when I started it, I immediately devoured it. What happens next is a rollercoaster ride of suspense, plot twists, and spicy scenes that will keep you guessing all the way to the end. I enjoyed reading this book, and each time I thought I had it figured out, I was wrong!

Great debut novel. Excellent suspense romance with multiple POVs. Gripping and an utter page turner. What a fun read.

ARC review!

Thank you to Nicole and NetGalley for the ARC!
I LOVED this book. I loved the character development.
And every single plot twist! Yes, there’s more than 1!
I couldn’t believe all the twists and turns. I’m pretty sure I had my mouth on the floor the entire last quarter of this book. It was the perfect mix of spice and plot. And the set up for a potential second book? 👀 YES PLEASE!
If you love true crime, spicy books and a whole lot of twists and turns. ABSOLUTELY read this book.

This book - wow, I couldn't put it down! I was hooked from the start and loved the development of the plot and storyline. The twists and turns kept me on my toes and sitting on the edge of my seat! Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

What a Rollercoaster!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶.5

The twists and turns in this book kept me know edge. The mystery and suspense of who and what will keep you on your toes.

🖤 Hitman
🫦 Forbidden Love
🖤 Multiple POV
🫦 Revenge
🖤 Betrayal
🫦 Family Secrets

Ronan is that morally gray man we all love. Veronica is the scorned woman who plotted her plan perfectly.

I couldnt stop reading this book!! I can't believe thisnis her debut novel. I loved it so much!!! I cant wait to read more from Nicole. I was taking notes trying to piece things together. I cant wait to have this book on my shelf!

Thank you NetGalley and Moonlit Graves Publishing for the ARC.

This book didn’t just start with chaos, it shoved me into it headfirst. The opening pages dragged me back to being nineteen and trapped in all the wrong places with all the wrong people, but Nicole J. Owens didn’t just leave me drowning in the dark. She built a story that twisted me inside out, broke me open, and stitched me back together with hope I didn’t see coming.

Victoria isn’t just a character; she’s survival personified. She’s innocence sharpened on the edge of pain; fragile in the cracks, yet unyielding in the fight. She reminded me of the version of myself I wished existed back then: someone who refuses to stay broken, no matter how many times life tries to shatter her. Every layer she peeled back made me love her more, because she is the contradiction of soft and steel.

And then there’s Ronan. He isn’t perfect but he’s perfectly everything. He’s a green flag in human form, steady and fierce, the kind of man who holds you together when you’re about to fall apart. Unless you’re on his list: then you’re screwed, because he’ll tear you apart without blinking. But for Victoria? He’s dangerous in all the right ways, the man who doesn’t just save her, he chooses her, wholly and unapologetically. He made me ache for the kind of love that heals old scars instead of carving new ones.

This isn’t a gentle book. It’s jagged and raw, full of mind twisting turns that ripped the floor out from under me. I gasped, cursed, laughed in disbelief, and whispered “just one more chapter” until there were none left. Every twist was a sucker punch, every reveal a shockwave, and yet I couldn’t look away.

And then, when I thought I’d be left gutted on the floor; Nicole gave me light. A happy ending that felt earned. Hope rising from the wreckage. The kind of ending that makes every bruise, every gasp, every tear worth it.

Beneath Your Lies isn’t just a dark romance. It’s a survival story disguised as a love story. It’s pain and resilience, chaos and devotion, lies and truth, all colliding in the kind of emotional storm you don’t walk out of the same.

Was I ready? Not at all.
Did I fall in love anyway? Harder than I ever expected.

🌟4,25 🌶 2.5

"The rage of a woman is not to be underestimated - it is a force to be reckoned with, a strom that demands respect."
Feels thorough the book; I have a thing for feminine rage, as said by Anya Taylor-Joy, that I support 👏🏼

I absolutely loved this! The story was "chef's kiss" to say it simply. I absolutely ate this up, damn!

The story has multiple POV's and has two different timelines. There are different themes presented throughout the story, which made it feel rich and enticing. You get a little 'whodunnit' feel and want to puzzel the peaces together. I can't give it a 5-star reading because I puzzled it out before the ending. That aside, I thoroughly enjoyed myself and couldn't wait to pick it back up. Ronan, you have my heart!

What an incredible debut novel. This is how you do suspense, action, and romance. I see a bright future for J. Owens and will definitely keep an eye out for future publication!

Go read this book now, I highly recommend it!

Thank you Netgalley, Nicole J. Owens and Moonlit Graves publishing for the eARC! ❤️

I went into Beneath Your Lies intrigued not only by the blurb but also by the author’s note at the beginning. Nicole J. Owens takes the time to flag potential triggers, making it clear she values the well-being of her readers above all else—a thoughtful touch that set the tone before the story even began.

First Impressions

The book hooked me right away. The story is told through multiple characters and time periods, but it’s done seamlessly, never feeling confusing or disjointed. Veronica and Ronan—the central figures—are both layered and compelling, which is essential since the book revolves around them. Even though Ronan is a hitman, both characters are written with enough depth that they feel relatable and real.

Plot & Pacing

The pacing is brisk but never rushed. Owens balances fast-moving action with enough detail to flesh out the story and characters. The romance between Veronica and Ronan develops quickly but convincingly, with just the right mix of spice and tenderness. Meanwhile, the mystery element is teased out through small, well-placed snippets that kept me curious right up until the end.

The final act is especially strong, bringing both the suspense and emotional stakes to a satisfying conclusion. I also particularly enjoyed the sections where Veronica and Ronan begin to explore their relationship—the chemistry between them practically jumps off the page.

Characters

Veronica and Ronan stand out as strong leads, but the supporting cast adds texture without overshadowing them. The dialogue throughout feels natural and easy to read—never stiff or forced. The romance between Veronica and Ronan worked for me; it’s fast-burning but balanced, spiced with passion while still carrying genuine emotion.

Writing Style & Atmosphere

The prose is smooth, accessible, and witty at times, which provides balance when the story dips into darker themes. Owens manages to explore violence, crime, and trauma without letting the tone get too heavy or oppressive, yet it never trivializes the subject matter either. The criminal underworld backdrop feels well built, believable, and easy to get lost in.

Emotional Response

This book gave me more than just surface-level thrills. I connected with Veronica’s journey as her world shifted dramatically, and I felt invested in her decisions and the consequences that followed. The romance and mystery both landed in a satisfying way, and by the final chapters, I was thoroughly engaged.

Critiques

I didn’t come away with many complaints. The book felt cohesive, well-paced, and balanced in tone. Some readers may prefer a slower build to the romance, but for me, the fast burn worked given the intensity of the story.

Content Warnings

The author addresses potential triggers up front, which is reassuring. Still, readers should be aware of:

Violence

Trauma and abuse references

Strong language

Criminal underworld elements

Final Thoughts

Beneath Your Lies is a sharp blend of romance, spice, and suspense. With a hitman bad-boy hero, a strong female lead, and a plot that drips out twists until the very end, it will appeal to fans of dark romance and revenge-driven stories.

A solid and satisfying read. I’d happily recommend it to romance readers looking for something with edge, heat, and mystery—and I’d be open to picking up more from Nicole J. Owens in the future.

This book gives you everything: female rage, forbidden love, a suspenseful romance dripping with danger, and an intoxicating mix of revenge and healing.

Veronica’s world explodes when she learns her District Attorney husband Richard has been cheating. His twisted solution? She’s to move into a hotel and even the score with an affair of her own, but of course there's a bigger catch. This solution can only be with a man of Richard's choosing and under his constant control.

But Veronica isn’t playing by Richard’s rules. Enter Ronan, brooding, dangerous, hitman with shadows of his own. Their chemistry is impossible to ignore, and you can feel the heat jumping off the page. It’s reckless. It’s forbidden. And it’s addictive.

The story itself is the perfect balance of plot and spice. The steamy scenes sizzle, but never at the expense of the thriller-meets-crime-meets-romance storyline. The twists had me gasping, the final chapter left me stunned, and I’m praying for a sequel.

The characters are layered and magnetic. Veronica’s resilience, Ronan’s tortured depth, all the way to Sylvie, the witty hacker sidekick I absolutely adored. And then there’s Richard, the kind of villain that makes you love to hate him, wielding power and influence in ways that had me fuming and intrigued at the same time.

Every chapter peels back new layers, and just when you think you know where it’s going, bam, another twist. This book had me hooked, breathless, and itching for more.

Beneath Your Lies is a dark, gripping read that kept me on the edge of my seat. Nicole J. Owens weaves suspense, romance, and secrets in a way that feels both intense and utterly addictive. The characters are complex and flawed, making every twist and revelation hit even harder. I couldn’t put it down—this one will haunt you long after the last page.

The audacity of the husband to suggest such option for her is beyond normal. He was not even sorry but it all went backfire for him. Well good for Veronica as she can find new love who can match her freakiness in and out. Both of them were matchmade in heaven I guess. And like always, I love to give applause to the wingman, Sylvie. She really use her brain and live up to her assistant role for Ronan most of the time.

First off, thank you to Moonlit Graves Publishing/Netgalley for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. That being said it bears repeating, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Holy. Cow. This book had me hooked from beginning to end. I could not put it down once I started it, and that rarely happens to me, especially as of late. The multiple POVs kept me intrigued and I appreciated how I was able to get to know each character. Ronan was by far my favorite character as I more than adore the protective "touch her and die" types in stories. The best part, however, for me was when I thought I was clever enough to have it all figured out, there was always something else I was missing, and not in an annoying, "what the heck is going on?!" way, but in the absolute best possible way! I appreciated the trigger warning list and applauded Nicole Owens for being a mental health advocate. That being said, I could not believe this was a debut novel!?!?! Incredible! That all said, the only reason I did not give it five stars is because I felt the last part was a bit more rushed than the rest of the book.

Favorite quote: "I know he's not sorry. He's only sorry he was caught."

"We're always taught to fear the loudest person in the room. But the truth is, you should be more afraid of the quiet ones. The ones calculating their revenge deep in the back of their minds, all while pasting a convincing smile across their lips."
Okay so I think this was my first spicy dark romance and I didn't hate it at all. The romance wasn't my fav aspect of the story but I fully think it'll be yours. The shocks and twists do NOT stop coming- maybe you'll be more in tuned to what's going on than I was, but I was genuinely gobsmacked at the reveals and it also just feels like they didn't let up either. Thanks so much to the author and Moonlit Graves Publishing for the eARC.
The quote I used is not officially published and may be removed.

3 stars

Dark romance meets murder mystery - very fun!

I did guess the ending BUT I enjoyed the journey regardless & overall I didn’t think the book was predictable. This took me on a journey and I loved every minute.

This was a web of corruption, lies, and revenge. I'm a sucker for a morally grey mmc, and Ronan did not disappoint. Can we say possessive and all the touch her and perish vibes your dark heart could want. Veronica was an interesting fmc, a woman scorned from the beginning! She seemed strong, but also weak, vulnerable, and naive at times. She was a planner from the beginning and was definitely underestimated.

I enjoyed the chemistry and how everything played out. Was I shocked by the ending, not really. Did I have a good time and enjoy the journey, absolutely! I've learned romantic suspense is my jam this year.

I'm hoping there will be a sequel after that ending. *fingers crossed* Would love more of Ronan and Veronica!

What happens when you get a serial killer, dodgy DA, a revenge killer, a hitman, a mob boss and dirty cops all in one room trying to kill each other? Find it in this absolutely amazing page turning story that will grip you from the first page and leave you wanting more. It’s suspenseful, addictive and incredibly smutty. What more could you want from a story?

A gripping and intense read that masterfully combines suspense, passion, and emotional complexity. The characters are vividly drawn, their secrets and desires intertwining in a way that keeps the pages turning. The tension builds steadily, with twists that surprise but always feel earned. Perfect for readers who love a dark, thrilling story infused with raw emotion and unexpected connections.

Veronica Sullivan’s seemingly perfect life shatters when she confronts her husband’s betrayal, only to be pushed into an unthinkable bargain. Enter Ronan, a brooding hitman with a past as dark as hers, and suddenly I couldn’t stop turning the pages. Their chemistry was electric, obsessive, dangerous, yet impossible to look away from. The story took unexpected twists, blending suspense, passion, and raw emotion into a perfect storm. Veronica felt like survival personified, while Ronan was both terrifying and tender. By the end, I was gutted, healed, and desperate for more. An addictive, dark, sexy debut.

This book hooked me from page one—dark, edgy, and packed with the perfect amount of tension.

Veronica is married to an older man and discovers he’s been cheating. When she confronts him, he cruelly tells her she can have her own affair and sends her to a nice hotel to pull herself together. At the hotel, she becomes entangled with Ronan, a man who is equal parts lethal and magnetic. Their chemistry crackles from their very first encounter, blurring the line between obsession and passion. The deeper the story goes, the more dangerous, addictive, and mysterious it becomes for both of them. There’s also more to Veronica and a third point of view from a secret character that keeps you intrigued.

The pacing keeps you guessing, with layered POVs and secrets slowly unfolding. Just when you think you’ve figured out the direction, another twist hits—I loved it.

Steam Factor: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (hot!)
Suspense Factor: ⭐⭐⭐

💄ARC REVIEW💄

New Release!

“This is the moment I live for. The moment my prey realizes it has nowhere to run. Nowhere to hide. The predator is closing in.“

Romantic suspense is quickly becoming a favourite genre of mine. Spicy spice with a dose of murder. All the hidden secrets kept me turning pages late into the night and our MMC was tastyyy. Would recommend if you’re wanting to try a genre mash up!

Thank you @netgalley @moonlitgravespublishing

#gifted #netgalley #beneathyourlies #romanticsuspense #romanticthriller #romanticsuspensereaders

A captivating read that expertly mixes intense emotions, forbidden desires, and mind-bending suspense. This thriller is an absolute page-turner, perfect for any fall reading list and highly recommended for thriller enthusiasts.