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Fables & Other Lies
Do you believe in curses?
I never did.
Not until that fated night, six years ago, when I sat in The Devil’s Chair and made a wish.
Not until it came true.
Not until I met River Caliban himself, heir to a fortune of curses. My fated sworn enemy.
I knew I should have stayed away from him. I should have run the other way when he called out my name, when he flashed that sinful smile of his, but instead, I walked toward him, leaving the light behind. Instead, I go against all reason, against all warning, and attended the gala of the year at his dark, allegedly haunted home at the top of the hill.
The moment I step foot inside I know I’m in trouble, but there’s something about River that magnetizes me, reels me in, and when he asks for the impossible, I find it impossible to turn him away.
I never did.
Not until that fated night, six years ago, when I sat in The Devil’s Chair and made a wish.
Not until it came true.
Not until I met River Caliban himself, heir to a fortune of curses. My fated sworn enemy.
I knew I should have stayed away from him. I should have run the other way when he called out my name, when he flashed that sinful smile of his, but instead, I walked toward him, leaving the light behind. Instead, I go against all reason, against all warning, and attended the gala of the year at his dark, allegedly haunted home at the top of the hill.
The moment I step foot inside I know I’m in trouble, but there’s something about River that magnetizes me, reels me in, and when he asks for the impossible, I find it impossible to turn him away.
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 20, 2020
About the author
Claire Contreras
48 books17.3k followersClaire Contreras is a New York Times Best Selling Author. Her books range from romantic suspense to contemporary romance and are currently translated into over fifteen languages. When she's not writing, she's usually lost in a book or hanging out with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 566 reviews
December 29, 2020
as a ghost story, this is everything i wanted
‘mexican gothic’
to be. its creepy, its spooky, and there are actual ghosts with a really interesting plot line. its a really good gothic story.
as a romance, this is kinda lame. there really isnt any romance, at least not until the end. i have no problem with a slow burn, but when you have a short story, such as this, slow burns work against you.
i think if this had been longer, there could have been more development and the balance between the two elements would have been a lot better. but the writing and overall concept to this story are enjoyable!
↠ 3.5 stars
as a romance, this is kinda lame. there really isnt any romance, at least not until the end. i have no problem with a slow burn, but when you have a short story, such as this, slow burns work against you.
i think if this had been longer, there could have been more development and the balance between the two elements would have been a lot better. but the writing and overall concept to this story are enjoyable!
↠ 3.5 stars
September 21, 2022
"The most powerful man on the island, the most sought after, the most mysterious, the one I was told to never, ever, summon by name, was holding out his hand for me. I set my hand over his and he held it gently as he watched me. I left it there, ignoring the shiver that slithered down my spine. Wela was going to disown me for this. I felt that warning in the pit of my stomach, and it was only then that I pulled my hand from his."
If you aren't familiar with Claire Contreras, you should know that on top of being a 2X breast cancer survivor, she's also an incredibly talented author and all around boss babe. Her books range from contemporary romance to romantic suspense, and now she's dabbling in gothic romance with a tinge of magical realism, and I 👏🏼 AM 👏🏼 HERE 👏🏼 FOR 👏🏼 IT👏🏼. Obviously I will devour anything she chooses to pen, but something about this particular sub-genre of romance seems to be her sweet spot, and I am salivating at the chance for more of the same in the future.
"The photograph that really brought me success was the one I didn't remember taking at all. It was a picture of Caliban Manor, a black estate, perched high on a hill, so secluded and covered in fog that no one had ever taken a clear picture of it until I did."
The story begins with a mysterious encounter during carnaval, followed by the beginning portion of the book catching us up to this scene. Penelope is a blogger and photographer who is coming home to Pan island for her estranged father's funeral; he and her mother were in a mysterious accident when their aircraft plummeted out of the sky for no obvious reason, and Penelope's mother is still bedridden from the incident. Pan island holds deep beliefs steeped in curses and the supernatural, and Penelope is a descendant from one of the two feuding founding families, the Guzman clan. The Calibans are extremely wealthy hermits, who only open their portion of the island to outsiders one week a year, during carnival celebrations. There are many elements, both past and present that bring Penelope in contact with River Caliban, the heir to the Caliban fortune, and along the way we witness their relationship develop into a romantic bond, while also solving the mysteries behind the curse.
"When he smiled, it was everything I'd been warned against. Devilish, seductive, terrifyingly alluring. He knew it, too. He knew he had me."
*swoon* As a mystery and suspense lover, I tend to bulldoze through the tender, more intimate scenes in romantic suspense novels, but that wasn't the case here. There was the perfect balance of steamy goodness and gentle development of insecurities that enraptured my attention. I love how this book is multi-faceted, and there's truly something appealing for every type of reader. I don't want to touch on the twists, but just know that Claire's signature "blow yo mind" touch is as present as it's ever been! I can't recommend this book highly enough, and I certainly can't wait to add a physical copy to my bookshelf!
"We make excuses for ourselves in hopes for our salvation. We ignore others' wrongdoings so that we don't have to look too closely at our own. It's the way we survive."
*Many thanks to the author for providing my review copy.
If you aren't familiar with Claire Contreras, you should know that on top of being a 2X breast cancer survivor, she's also an incredibly talented author and all around boss babe. Her books range from contemporary romance to romantic suspense, and now she's dabbling in gothic romance with a tinge of magical realism, and I 👏🏼 AM 👏🏼 HERE 👏🏼 FOR 👏🏼 IT👏🏼. Obviously I will devour anything she chooses to pen, but something about this particular sub-genre of romance seems to be her sweet spot, and I am salivating at the chance for more of the same in the future.
"The photograph that really brought me success was the one I didn't remember taking at all. It was a picture of Caliban Manor, a black estate, perched high on a hill, so secluded and covered in fog that no one had ever taken a clear picture of it until I did."
The story begins with a mysterious encounter during carnaval, followed by the beginning portion of the book catching us up to this scene. Penelope is a blogger and photographer who is coming home to Pan island for her estranged father's funeral; he and her mother were in a mysterious accident when their aircraft plummeted out of the sky for no obvious reason, and Penelope's mother is still bedridden from the incident. Pan island holds deep beliefs steeped in curses and the supernatural, and Penelope is a descendant from one of the two feuding founding families, the Guzman clan. The Calibans are extremely wealthy hermits, who only open their portion of the island to outsiders one week a year, during carnival celebrations. There are many elements, both past and present that bring Penelope in contact with River Caliban, the heir to the Caliban fortune, and along the way we witness their relationship develop into a romantic bond, while also solving the mysteries behind the curse.
"When he smiled, it was everything I'd been warned against. Devilish, seductive, terrifyingly alluring. He knew it, too. He knew he had me."
*swoon* As a mystery and suspense lover, I tend to bulldoze through the tender, more intimate scenes in romantic suspense novels, but that wasn't the case here. There was the perfect balance of steamy goodness and gentle development of insecurities that enraptured my attention. I love how this book is multi-faceted, and there's truly something appealing for every type of reader. I don't want to touch on the twists, but just know that Claire's signature "blow yo mind" touch is as present as it's ever been! I can't recommend this book highly enough, and I certainly can't wait to add a physical copy to my bookshelf!
"We make excuses for ourselves in hopes for our salvation. We ignore others' wrongdoings so that we don't have to look too closely at our own. It's the way we survive."
*Many thanks to the author for providing my review copy.
December 21, 2020
4 stars
Penelope Guzman has been away from her home for years and never had any intentions of coming back. Until she has to. She’s back on the island where she’s from and strange things are starting to happen. Then she meets River and her life is turned upside down.
River Caliban comes from the Guzman’s rival family. Penelope knows she should stay away from him. But she can’t. He’s enigmatic and enchanting. things start to happen. Penelope starts to remember things she shouldn’t. And secret upon secret is revealed.
I loved the twists and mysteries being unfolded. This is an addictive read and you’ll want to keep going and going until you get answers. I loved so much of this book, I only wish it was a little more romance heavy. I wanted so much more Penny and River.
Fables & Other Lies was a captivating story. It was original, mysterious, and even a bit dark. If you’re looking for a unique romance with a twist, check this out!
“The moment you came back to the island, you sealed your fate.”With Claire Contreras books, I’ve learned to expect the unexpected. One of my favorite things about reading her stories is that she writes outside of the box. This is not your typical romance- in fact, I’m not sure if I’ve read anything quite like it before. A gothic romance with just a touch of paranormal, it was a book I didn’t want to put down.
Penelope Guzman has been away from her home for years and never had any intentions of coming back. Until she has to. She’s back on the island where she’s from and strange things are starting to happen. Then she meets River and her life is turned upside down.
River Caliban comes from the Guzman’s rival family. Penelope knows she should stay away from him. But she can’t. He’s enigmatic and enchanting. things start to happen. Penelope starts to remember things she shouldn’t. And secret upon secret is revealed.
I loved the twists and mysteries being unfolded. This is an addictive read and you’ll want to keep going and going until you get answers. I loved so much of this book, I only wish it was a little more romance heavy. I wanted so much more Penny and River.
Fables & Other Lies was a captivating story. It was original, mysterious, and even a bit dark. If you’re looking for a unique romance with a twist, check this out!
December 23, 2020
3.5 STARS
The second I heard Claire will be releasing a gothic romance, I was gagging for it. I love a unique and twisty read, and this one certainly delivered in spades.
Admittedly, it did take me quite a bit to get into it fully but that likely has more to do with my blah mood lately than anything else. I have the attention span of a gnat. It's ridiculous. But I digress.
Fables & Other Lies is a story full of secrets, revenge, family rivalry, curses, and folklore. It was deliciously addictive. The mystery around the town and the curse that plagues it was something I couldn't get enough of. It's rare that I'll read a book that gives me goosebumps, and this one did. There were parts that sent shivers up my spine and I was so here for it.
River was exactly the kind of mysterious and enigmatic hero that I love to read about. The second he appeared on the pages, I was hypnotized with his presence. What I loved most about this book was how incredibly unique it was. I've only read a few gothic romances, and it's not an easy genre. I'd love to see more books like this from Claire.
My one quibble was I wish it was longer. I just didn't feel like there was enough relationship development between River and Penelope for me to fully connect with it. I also wanted a bit more on River in general. I felt like we're thrown right into the deep end of this story from the beginning. And while it made me immensely curious to unravel the mystery, I also felt like I needed a little more information on the families and the backstories there.
That aside, I enjoyed this quite a bit. It was mysterious with a splash of dark magic and curses all wrapped around a years old family curse and rivalry. The romance was a slow burn full of sizzle and the characters were unique. Highly recommend if you're looking for something different and wildly entertaining!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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The moment you came back to the island, you sealed your fate.
The second I heard Claire will be releasing a gothic romance, I was gagging for it. I love a unique and twisty read, and this one certainly delivered in spades.
Admittedly, it did take me quite a bit to get into it fully but that likely has more to do with my blah mood lately than anything else. I have the attention span of a gnat. It's ridiculous. But I digress.
Fables & Other Lies is a story full of secrets, revenge, family rivalry, curses, and folklore. It was deliciously addictive. The mystery around the town and the curse that plagues it was something I couldn't get enough of. It's rare that I'll read a book that gives me goosebumps, and this one did. There were parts that sent shivers up my spine and I was so here for it.
River was exactly the kind of mysterious and enigmatic hero that I love to read about. The second he appeared on the pages, I was hypnotized with his presence. What I loved most about this book was how incredibly unique it was. I've only read a few gothic romances, and it's not an easy genre. I'd love to see more books like this from Claire.
My one quibble was I wish it was longer. I just didn't feel like there was enough relationship development between River and Penelope for me to fully connect with it. I also wanted a bit more on River in general. I felt like we're thrown right into the deep end of this story from the beginning. And while it made me immensely curious to unravel the mystery, I also felt like I needed a little more information on the families and the backstories there.
That aside, I enjoyed this quite a bit. It was mysterious with a splash of dark magic and curses all wrapped around a years old family curse and rivalry. The romance was a slow burn full of sizzle and the characters were unique. Highly recommend if you're looking for something different and wildly entertaining!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
December 3, 2020
So... I sit down to read this book, right? I have NO IDEA what I’m getting into. Admittedly, I haven’t read the blurb. All I know is it’s a “gothic” romance. And I don’t know what a “gothic” romance is 😂 but I’m curious. Very curious. So I’m reading this book and my heart is going wild! Because OMFGGGGGGGG! WHAT EVEN IS THIS STORY!?!?! I. WAS. SPEECHLESS! BREATHLESS. Like jaw dropped on the floor, heart in my throat, eyes wide, edge-of-my-seat, just utterly captivated! I love a unique romance and Claire Contreras SHOOK me! I couldn’t put the book down! I read it in one sitting! I friggin inhaled Fables and Other Lies. I don’t think I’ve read a book that fast in FOREVER! It was so wild and twisty, so suspenseful and magical, so damn heart stopping! I can’t get over what I read! ABSOLUTELY unique! I’ve honestly never read anything like this book in my life and it is hands down one the most REFRESHING, MAGICAL, INTENSE, TWISTY reads of 2020! It is WHOA! You guys definitely need this one on your TBR! I am shook by it! Soooooo flipping good!
Want to read
January 19, 2021Free Autographed Paperback Copy Giveaway
I am giving away a free autographed copy of Fables & Other Lies. Open until January 20, 2021 at 11pm EST. Add to your library today.
Sign up here:
https://www.instagram.com/p/CKH1J2DAK...
I am giving away a free autographed copy of Fables & Other Lies. Open until January 20, 2021 at 11pm EST. Add to your library today.
Sign up here:
https://www.instagram.com/p/CKH1J2DAK...
December 21, 2020
Fables & Other Lies was one of those books I didn’t want to put down but also didn’t want it to end. I loved how unique this book was. There was history and Domincan culture thrown into an interesting story. Penelope doesn’t believe in curses or magic but ends up questioning this throughout the book. Fables & folklore is a subject I find interesting but don’t read a lot of. This was perfect for 2020 to get take a break from reality. There are so many facets to this book that it’s hard to express in a book, so I suggest just reading the book.
I highly recommend Fables & Other Lies especially to people that like stories with curses and magic elements.
Thank you Claire Contreras for Fables & Other Lies.
Full Review: https://justreadingjess.wordpress.com...
I highly recommend Fables & Other Lies especially to people that like stories with curses and magic elements.
Thank you Claire Contreras for Fables & Other Lies.
Full Review: https://justreadingjess.wordpress.com...
December 20, 2020
***AVAILABLE NOW***
5 CURSED CROWNS
Fables & Other Lies is NOTHING like Claire has written before. Mysterious and utterly captivating, it is a magnificent story that intertwines the traditional aspects of a gothic storytelling with a contemporary romance novel!
I honestly don’t even know what to say about this story. The plot line is completely original, filled to the brim with interesting characters, local folklore, a rich culture of a fictional island, and heaps of romance.
The characters are intertwined in unexpected ways, and while I don’t want to ruin one thing for readers, know that Claire Contreras delivers a story that has a crafted a romance the truly defies all the odds put in front of them. It is a love that truly epitomizes sacrifice and love in all forms.
When it comes to the story line, expect the unexpected. It has the mysterious elements of a gothic romance novel: the women in danger, the supernatural (not PNR) components, the folklore, the isolated castles, etc., but it is so much more than this. The gothic aspect of the book almost fades and acts as a secondary character, a complete entity of itself, in the story and the future they fight so hard for. Just know this, I was sitting at the end of this book stunned, an empty feeling in my stomach, because I didn’t want it to end.
Fables & Other Lies is without a doubt one of my favorite Claire Contreras books. Unique and enthralling, this story, the characters, and the world she created will completely captivate you from the first page. If you were ever to take a chance on a new trope, a new author, a new book, THIS IS THE ONE.
BETA READ
5 CURSED CROWNS
Fables & Other Lies is NOTHING like Claire has written before. Mysterious and utterly captivating, it is a magnificent story that intertwines the traditional aspects of a gothic storytelling with a contemporary romance novel!
I honestly don’t even know what to say about this story. The plot line is completely original, filled to the brim with interesting characters, local folklore, a rich culture of a fictional island, and heaps of romance.
The characters are intertwined in unexpected ways, and while I don’t want to ruin one thing for readers, know that Claire Contreras delivers a story that has a crafted a romance the truly defies all the odds put in front of them. It is a love that truly epitomizes sacrifice and love in all forms.
When it comes to the story line, expect the unexpected. It has the mysterious elements of a gothic romance novel: the women in danger, the supernatural (not PNR) components, the folklore, the isolated castles, etc., but it is so much more than this. The gothic aspect of the book almost fades and acts as a secondary character, a complete entity of itself, in the story and the future they fight so hard for. Just know this, I was sitting at the end of this book stunned, an empty feeling in my stomach, because I didn’t want it to end.
Fables & Other Lies is without a doubt one of my favorite Claire Contreras books. Unique and enthralling, this story, the characters, and the world she created will completely captivate you from the first page. If you were ever to take a chance on a new trope, a new author, a new book, THIS IS THE ONE.
BETA READ
Read
December 20, 2020The first 30% of the story was confusing, up to 40% I couldn’t be invested in the plot or connect with the characters and dnf it.
December 20, 2020
4 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)
Penelope returns to the island she grew up on after being gone a while. It's filled with history, traditions, legends, folklore, and family rivalries. She'd been warned against the Caliban's her entire life, but didn't believe in the myths about curses. She never understood the feud between their families, but was forced long ago to accept they were sworn enemies. When she crosses paths with the handsome, seductive, arrogant River Caliban, she knows she should run in the opposite direction, but she's drawn to his sinfully wicked smile and alluring presence. When she catches his attention she finds this mysterious, powerful man thrilling and fascinating. Will her curiosity lead to trouble, or fulfill all her deepest desires?
-"I've been waiting for you."
-"The moment you came back to the island, you sealed your fate."
Fables & Other Lies by Claire Contreras is a standalone, enemies to lovers gothic romance about family, vengeance, sacrifice, danger, rumors, mystery, secrets, lies, trust, fate, and undeniable chemistry. It's an intense, addicting, extremely original, spooky, captivating ride. I really enjoyed this story. It's different from anything else I've read by this author. It's dark, sexy, and unforgettable!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/38ljgRV
(ARC provided by author)
Penelope returns to the island she grew up on after being gone a while. It's filled with history, traditions, legends, folklore, and family rivalries. She'd been warned against the Caliban's her entire life, but didn't believe in the myths about curses. She never understood the feud between their families, but was forced long ago to accept they were sworn enemies. When she crosses paths with the handsome, seductive, arrogant River Caliban, she knows she should run in the opposite direction, but she's drawn to his sinfully wicked smile and alluring presence. When she catches his attention she finds this mysterious, powerful man thrilling and fascinating. Will her curiosity lead to trouble, or fulfill all her deepest desires?
-"I've been waiting for you."
-"The moment you came back to the island, you sealed your fate."
Fables & Other Lies by Claire Contreras is a standalone, enemies to lovers gothic romance about family, vengeance, sacrifice, danger, rumors, mystery, secrets, lies, trust, fate, and undeniable chemistry. It's an intense, addicting, extremely original, spooky, captivating ride. I really enjoyed this story. It's different from anything else I've read by this author. It's dark, sexy, and unforgettable!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/38ljgRV
January 4, 2021
This was a very unique gothic style read with a heartwarming romance thrown in. I love a read that keeps me guessing, and I definitely had a ton of questions the whole way through. My only complaint was that for the first 70% the pacing of the story was slow. It’s weird though, because even though it was slow going, I wasn’t necessarily bored!🤷♀️
This is a story about a curse that involves two families..there is a bit of paranormal aspects thrown in.. not like vampires or anything; but psychics, tea leave reading, witches and stuff like that! It definitely adds an interesting twist on all that unravels as answers are revealed!
All in all, an intriguing read, and nice to have something that is a fresh idea instead of the same kinds of storylines!
Thank you Steph for another fabulous Buddy Read!🥰💘😘💘
This is a story about a curse that involves two families..there is a bit of paranormal aspects thrown in.. not like vampires or anything; but psychics, tea leave reading, witches and stuff like that! It definitely adds an interesting twist on all that unravels as answers are revealed!
All in all, an intriguing read, and nice to have something that is a fresh idea instead of the same kinds of storylines!
Thank you Steph for another fabulous Buddy Read!🥰💘😘💘
December 31, 2020
Fables & Other Lies captures the quintessential mysterious, disconcerting atmosphere of a true gothic romance. Between the unique characters and the heady setting of Pan Island, this book is unlike anything else I've read this year. Claire Contreras proves once more that she can write in any genre with style and authenticity. A must read for gothic romance lovers!
November 23, 2020
December 21, 2020! <3
January 5, 2021
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
- 3.5 stars -
I haven't read many Gothic Romances, but in general I love stories that are mysterious and you don't know what to expect. We are thrown into the story right from the start and I was a bit confused but very curious to see which direction the story would go. I was intrigued by the characters and their family history. I was hooked to the story but it was just too short for me to fully believe in the connection between the two main characters Penelope and River. It was over before I knew it and it left me unsatisfied.
The pacing was great in the beginning but then thing started developing very quickly, and I just couldn't keep up. I wanted to know more about the characters so I could connect to them better. I wanted more details about the curse and family history, and maybe have a couple of flashbacks. The premise and atmosphere of the story was amazing, it was very unique and it really interested me. It felt very dark and creepy at times, which I absolutely loved. Claire has a great writing style and she always knows how to grab my attention. This one just felt unfinished for me. There was just so many aspects of the story that were left unexplored, but I still enjoyed the story and I really hope Claire will write more books in this subgenre.
- 3.5 stars -
I haven't read many Gothic Romances, but in general I love stories that are mysterious and you don't know what to expect. We are thrown into the story right from the start and I was a bit confused but very curious to see which direction the story would go. I was intrigued by the characters and their family history. I was hooked to the story but it was just too short for me to fully believe in the connection between the two main characters Penelope and River. It was over before I knew it and it left me unsatisfied.
The pacing was great in the beginning but then thing started developing very quickly, and I just couldn't keep up. I wanted to know more about the characters so I could connect to them better. I wanted more details about the curse and family history, and maybe have a couple of flashbacks. The premise and atmosphere of the story was amazing, it was very unique and it really interested me. It felt very dark and creepy at times, which I absolutely loved. Claire has a great writing style and she always knows how to grab my attention. This one just felt unfinished for me. There was just so many aspects of the story that were left unexplored, but I still enjoyed the story and I really hope Claire will write more books in this subgenre.
December 22, 2020
I just didn’t like this book... it was hard for me to connect with the story, there was too much rambling and I felt like there were missing pieces.
I had to re-read some pages because I didn’t know what they were talking about.
Didn’t feel the connection between H and h.
Everything was rushed.
Still can’t understand what the curse was about 🤷🏼♀️
I don’t know if it was that I am in a dumb mood or that this type of books are not for me.
I had to re-read some pages because I didn’t know what they were talking about.
Didn’t feel the connection between H and h.
Everything was rushed.
Still can’t understand what the curse was about 🤷🏼♀️
I don’t know if it was that I am in a dumb mood or that this type of books are not for me.
April 28, 2024
What in the actual f..? Are you serious right now? This could have been soooo good.
The haunted house/generational curse intrigue was all there!
What we really get is:
Strange boy meets girl, falls in insta-love, makes her stay at his house, in his bed, talks in riddles, and brings her clothes and jewels.
50-75% in and we know more about her outfits than the damn curse!
Also, I’m still confused. Is the curse broken? How did her mother recover and his father die if the curse is broken? Does she forgive her cousin? Why are we in I Greece all of a sudden. I have questions.
The haunted house/generational curse intrigue was all there!
What we really get is:
Strange boy meets girl, falls in insta-love, makes her stay at his house, in his bed, talks in riddles, and brings her clothes and jewels.
50-75% in and we know more about her outfits than the damn curse!
Also, I’m still confused. Is the curse broken? How did her mother recover and his father die if the curse is broken? Does she forgive her cousin? Why are we in I Greece all of a sudden. I have questions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
December 23, 2020I can honestly say it's unlike anything I've ever read!
March 21, 2021
1,5 stars
this book needed more...something..everything...
this book needed more...something..everything...
January 4, 2021
4.25 Stars
Definitely a book that's written outside of the box with tons of twists and turns...What is the curse? Who started it? Who really is River?
I couldn't put this down when I started because I just had to know all of the answers.
The only negative things about this book of Penny and River is it took a while to get into it and I felt that there wasn't enough of the backstory to really understand. Once getting past the 50% mark though...things started coming together and making sense. But I did want more of Penny and River.
Definitely a book that's written outside of the box with tons of twists and turns...What is the curse? Who started it? Who really is River?
I couldn't put this down when I started because I just had to know all of the answers.
The only negative things about this book of Penny and River is it took a while to get into it and I felt that there wasn't enough of the backstory to really understand. Once getting past the 50% mark though...things started coming together and making sense. But I did want more of Penny and River.
February 5, 2021
DNF’d at 20%... Not what I’m looking for right now
December 23, 2020
FIVE ORIGINAL STARS for Penelope and River ❤🖤❤🖤!!!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
WOW!
THIS BOOK LEFT ME SPEECHLESS!
Although this is only the second book that I've read by Claire yet, after reading "Twisted Circles" which completely fascinated me, I developed high expectations for her future books.
And with this book, Claire fulfilled my expectations!
Her writing style is unique and recognizable because of the way she builds an intriguing storyline whose main thought isn't only a love story but tradition and folklore imbued with mysteries because of which I could not stop the book until I uncovered all the secrets.
"Fables & Other Lies" is a gothic romance with enemies to lovers trope due to whose twist and turns you won't be able to drop from your hands to the very end.
Penelope is a female character who is the complete opposite of the women in her family because she doesn’t believe in curses and magic and questions everything in life.
River is a male character who is willing to sell the family home and move away from the island to break the family curse that has brought his and Penelope’s family into conflict.
Penelope and River's relationship is the real magic that slowly develops into true love!
If you're looking for a gothic romance and you also love Claire's writing style, then this is the book for you!!!
Highly recommended!!!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
WOW!
THIS BOOK LEFT ME SPEECHLESS!
Although this is only the second book that I've read by Claire yet, after reading "Twisted Circles" which completely fascinated me, I developed high expectations for her future books.
And with this book, Claire fulfilled my expectations!
Her writing style is unique and recognizable because of the way she builds an intriguing storyline whose main thought isn't only a love story but tradition and folklore imbued with mysteries because of which I could not stop the book until I uncovered all the secrets.
"Fables & Other Lies" is a gothic romance with enemies to lovers trope due to whose twist and turns you won't be able to drop from your hands to the very end.
Penelope is a female character who is the complete opposite of the women in her family because she doesn’t believe in curses and magic and questions everything in life.
River is a male character who is willing to sell the family home and move away from the island to break the family curse that has brought his and Penelope’s family into conflict.
Penelope and River's relationship is the real magic that slowly develops into true love!
If you're looking for a gothic romance and you also love Claire's writing style, then this is the book for you!!!
Highly recommended!!!
June 23, 2021
Awww i wanted to like this one more but it's more mystery and gothic elements than romance and heat. However, i liked the darker storyline filled with ghosts and curses.
January 20, 2021
4 ⭐'s
“The only thing that feels like home to me is you.”
I really enjoy Claire Contreras' books especially her romances. This is a romance but it has gothic and paranormal aspects to it that take away from the sweetness that could have been amazing.
Penny's been away from home for quite some time. She only comes back for her father's funeral.
She lives on a small island near the Dominican Republic and there are a lot of superstitions and fables passed down from generation to generation. Penny doesn't believe in most of it.
Her friends talk her into going to the Carnival, the annual days long party, and that's where she meets River. He's the host of the Carnival and it just happens that his family has been feuding with Penny's family for generations.
River picks her to be his companion for the whole of the Carnival and that's when Penny starts finding out eerie circumstances and what's true and what isn't.
I really enjoyed River and Penny together. I was a little disappointed that many of the events that I thought River was involved in, he wasn't.
And then there's the big drama at the end that you really have to suspend belief on. Again, this is where the paranormal part really takes over.
I was happy with the way things ended and the epilogue was really sweet. Jose was hilarious!
“The only thing that feels like home to me is you.”
I really enjoy Claire Contreras' books especially her romances. This is a romance but it has gothic and paranormal aspects to it that take away from the sweetness that could have been amazing.
Penny's been away from home for quite some time. She only comes back for her father's funeral.
She lives on a small island near the Dominican Republic and there are a lot of superstitions and fables passed down from generation to generation. Penny doesn't believe in most of it.
Her friends talk her into going to the Carnival, the annual days long party, and that's where she meets River. He's the host of the Carnival and it just happens that his family has been feuding with Penny's family for generations.
River picks her to be his companion for the whole of the Carnival and that's when Penny starts finding out eerie circumstances and what's true and what isn't.
I really enjoyed River and Penny together. I was a little disappointed that many of the events that I thought River was involved in, he wasn't.
And then there's the big drama at the end that you really have to suspend belief on. Again, this is where the paranormal part really takes over.
I was happy with the way things ended and the epilogue was really sweet. Jose was hilarious!
January 23, 2021
I need more time with them!!!
December 28, 2020
3.5 Stars
This held my interest but I felt that I was in a perpetual fog that never cleared. I was hoping for a great aha twist that made the story all come together. The fog lingered.
I'm not a reader that needs a nice tidy ending but I do want to feel satisfied. When a story is murky and poses far more questions than answers, the ending needs to make the journey getting there worth while. I'm not sure this did.
The premise and the story were interesting, the execution didn't quite do it justice.
This held my interest but I felt that I was in a perpetual fog that never cleared. I was hoping for a great aha twist that made the story all come together. The fog lingered.
I'm not a reader that needs a nice tidy ending but I do want to feel satisfied. When a story is murky and poses far more questions than answers, the ending needs to make the journey getting there worth while. I'm not sure this did.
The premise and the story were interesting, the execution didn't quite do it justice.
May 9, 2021
1.75/5
i honestly do not even know what i read because this book felt like i was reading a textbook, and not because it was long or anything, but the amount of times i zoned out and then just got lost throughout the plot.. y e a h.
though the cover and the blurb had potential, the story itself did not deliver because it was just all over the place.
i honestly do not even know what i read because this book felt like i was reading a textbook, and not because it was long or anything, but the amount of times i zoned out and then just got lost throughout the plot.. y e a h.
though the cover and the blurb had potential, the story itself did not deliver because it was just all over the place.
February 3, 2021
Bueno, la verdad que termine el libro sin entender que pasaba.
Pense en ponerle 1 estrella pero es que tampoco creo que se merece esa nota. Es que no me enganché, pense que iba a ir para un lado y no. La verdad que a veces pense que no se trataba de un libro romántico, porque literalmente no te enamoras de nadie, el epilogo fue muy pobre. Fue una experiencia rara. Segui con la lectura por algunas reseñas que leí. Pero parece que leí otro libro...
Creo que quiere abarcar varios temas a la vez, y se queda a la mitad en todos.
Pense en ponerle 1 estrella pero es que tampoco creo que se merece esa nota. Es que no me enganché, pense que iba a ir para un lado y no. La verdad que a veces pense que no se trataba de un libro romántico, porque literalmente no te enamoras de nadie, el epilogo fue muy pobre. Fue una experiencia rara. Segui con la lectura por algunas reseñas que leí. Pero parece que leí otro libro...
Creo que quiere abarcar varios temas a la vez, y se queda a la mitad en todos.
September 5, 2022
A very atmospheric book, like reading through fog and mostly all vibes. I really enjoyed it, but I’m always going to be real with you and let you know that the few short spicy scenes were so badly written that I felt myself kinda zoning out through them so they wouldn’t affect how much I liked reading the folklore and other interactions between the main and side characters! 😅
It’s set on an island near the Dominican Republic so we’re getting Latine rep from a Latine author! The MCs include Penelope Guzman who comes from a long line of healers (or witches) and River Caliban, who I fully expected to be the devil. And while deals with the devil were made I won’t spoil how, why, or for what! Some aspects of the story where a little muddled and unclear, but it’s a quick read full of very weird, curious, romantic, and eye-catching scenes!
Oh also, quick recap because there really isn’t much of a summary anywhere:
Penelope attends this extended party where the men get to choose one women to spend the night with (several days so it can be diff women), there’s definitely something magical and a little dark about the party though. River picks her for the first night, shocking everyone because their families hate each other. Penelope is a photographer who profited off taking a picture of the very exclusive and secretive Caliban estate and she thinks River picked her as a sort of punishment. The story takes off from there!
Please check the TWs/CWs.
It’s set on an island near the Dominican Republic so we’re getting Latine rep from a Latine author! The MCs include Penelope Guzman who comes from a long line of healers (or witches) and River Caliban, who I fully expected to be the devil. And while deals with the devil were made I won’t spoil how, why, or for what! Some aspects of the story where a little muddled and unclear, but it’s a quick read full of very weird, curious, romantic, and eye-catching scenes!
Oh also, quick recap because there really isn’t much of a summary anywhere:
Penelope attends this extended party where the men get to choose one women to spend the night with (several days so it can be diff women), there’s definitely something magical and a little dark about the party though. River picks her for the first night, shocking everyone because their families hate each other. Penelope is a photographer who profited off taking a picture of the very exclusive and secretive Caliban estate and she thinks River picked her as a sort of punishment. The story takes off from there!
Please check the TWs/CWs.
December 27, 2020
I'm at a lost on how to rate this book. There's no denying that the writing was good, but I just couldn't get into the gothic romance elements of the story. I felt things were left unresolved
December 21, 2020
Riveting Storytelling! Lose yourself on Dolos and Pan Island. Legends and fables will come to life. This was a beautiful story about a deadly curse and the power of true love.
A tale that was refreshingly new and captivating at the same time. I went in completely blind, with zero expectations, and I read it in one sitting. I WAS TOTALLY HOOKED. So much love for River and Penny's story. It was dark at times, yet beautiful and unputdownable.
My suggestion would be to just click and read. I loved every word. This was such a deviation from what I have been reading and it was great to be swept away.
There is always some truth within the telling of a legend...this is their truth. They found love, but it will come at a price.
A tale that was refreshingly new and captivating at the same time. I went in completely blind, with zero expectations, and I read it in one sitting. I WAS TOTALLY HOOKED. So much love for River and Penny's story. It was dark at times, yet beautiful and unputdownable.
My suggestion would be to just click and read. I loved every word. This was such a deviation from what I have been reading and it was great to be swept away.
There is always some truth within the telling of a legend...this is their truth. They found love, but it will come at a price.
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