Don't Lie to Me

by Amber A Bardan

[Lynn]

I thoroughly enjoyed the previous two books in the Bad For You series, so couldn't wait to find out what Amber Bardan had planned for us this time around. Don't Lie To Me is a standalone novel, although I highly recommend you read Didn't I Warn You and Didn't You Promise too.

Avner Malfacini's focus is solely on his business dealing. He hasn't the time or inclination to get involved with a woman in his line of work. He's instantly drawn to Emma, so indulges in her for just one night...except it's not enough. Only will his possessive overbearing personality be too much for the first woman to have caught his imagination in years.

Emma is instantly attracted to Avner, the dark brooding business associate of her best friend's soon to be husband Haithem. She's only interested in him to satisfy her sexual needs, however, Avner is a man who keeps a hold of whatever he wants and Emma is a woman he's unwilling to let go of.

Their pair has combustible chemistry which makes for a volatile relationship, at least in the beginning. Both have secrets they are keeping to themselves whilst trying to incorporate their work around each other without compromise. Only this leads to suspicion and misunderstanding as trust is sought. Avner is an alpha male who's used to getting what he wants, yet Emma is a strong, determined woman who's unwilling to hand over her independence to someone like Avner.

The author has woven an intriguing, sexy and suspenseful plot around Avner and Emma, set against an international backdrop as their journey takes them to Italy, India and then back to Australia. The focus of the story is primarily about the protagonists and their magnetic attraction but we also get to see how their lives are still strongly connected to Haithem and Angelina. As the layers are peeled away, mysteries are revealed and personal hurdles are overcome resulting in a satisfying happy ever after.

***arc generously received courtesy of Carina Press via NetGalley***