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Webs We Weave #1
Dishonestly Yours
Starting fresh is the only way Phoebe can escape a life of crime, but her best friend's older brother complicates honest dreams in this gripping new series from the authors of the Addicted series.
Phoebe Graves grew up in a family where deception and seduction are as commonplace as breathing. The Graves and her best friend Hailey’s family have been on the run their whole lives, but after a high-stakes con job goes south, Phoebe and Hailey decide to run away and start over. The small Connecticut town they settle in seems too good to be true.
The biggest flaw in their plan is Hailey’s frustratingly handsome brother, Rocky, who insists on coming with them. Living honestly isn’t in his DNA, and his past with Phoebe is downright messy. He’s everything she wants, but nothing she can have.
Phoebe worries that Rocky will tempt them back into their old ways, where lying is second nature. She doesn’t want Rocky to mess up the new life she’s begun for herself. The longer she stays in town, the more she realizes what it means to have a reputation—and what a normal life with the man she loves could look like.
Phoebe Graves grew up in a family where deception and seduction are as commonplace as breathing. The Graves and her best friend Hailey’s family have been on the run their whole lives, but after a high-stakes con job goes south, Phoebe and Hailey decide to run away and start over. The small Connecticut town they settle in seems too good to be true.
The biggest flaw in their plan is Hailey’s frustratingly handsome brother, Rocky, who insists on coming with them. Living honestly isn’t in his DNA, and his past with Phoebe is downright messy. He’s everything she wants, but nothing she can have.
Phoebe worries that Rocky will tempt them back into their old ways, where lying is second nature. She doesn’t want Rocky to mess up the new life she’s begun for herself. The longer she stays in town, the more she realizes what it means to have a reputation—and what a normal life with the man she loves could look like.
464 pages, Paperback
First published July 2, 2024
About the author
Krista Ritchie
40 books16.2k followersNYT & USA Today Bestselling Authors Krista & Becca Ritchie are identical twins—one a science nerd, the other a comic book geek—but with their shared passion for writing, they combined their mental powers as kids and have never stopped telling stories. They love superheroes, flawed characters, and soul mate love.
To stay up to date on new releases, bonus content, and more, sign up for Krista & Becca's Newsletter: www.kbritchie.com/newsletter
Quick note: We don't check Goodreads, so we don't respond to messages here. But if you want to connect with Becca or me, you can reach out to us on our social medias or at our website: www.kbritchie.com
Instagram | Facebook | TikTok
Fans of Krista & Becca's Books:
♥ Join Krista & Becca's Fizzle Force Facebook group.
♥ Inspiration for the Addicted series can be found on their Pinterest boards.
♥ Find playlists for all of their books on Spotify
♥ Check out all of their extras! Including: bonus scenes, character interviews, fun posts and more on their Extras page.
To stay up to date on new releases, bonus content, and more, sign up for Krista & Becca's Newsletter: www.kbritchie.com/newsletter
Quick note: We don't check Goodreads, so we don't respond to messages here. But if you want to connect with Becca or me, you can reach out to us on our social medias or at our website: www.kbritchie.com
Instagram | Facebook | TikTok
Fans of Krista & Becca's Books:
♥ Join Krista & Becca's Fizzle Force Facebook group.
♥ Inspiration for the Addicted series can be found on their Pinterest boards.
♥ Find playlists for all of their books on Spotify
♥ Check out all of their extras! Including: bonus scenes, character interviews, fun posts and more on their Extras page.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,419 reviews
October 4, 2024
i was hesitant about this book at first but i ended up mostly enjoying it. there’s angst, tension, drama, secrets, and (in a sense) found family. this was such a great start to the series, a bit slow at first but it picks up along the way. i was invested in these characters, in their lives and relationships, rooting for them every step of the way. despite their being manipulative and deceitful, i grew to love and want the best for them.
the characters:
phoebe: i adore her. her role in cons is to be the seductress. again and again she has been used just for her body, seen simply as an object and nothing more. it makes my heart ache to see her being treated that way and made to believe that that’s where her worth lies. though she’s escaping her life of crime primarily for her best friend, hailey, she too finds relief and comfort in the steadiness of her new life. she reminds me of lily in some ways, who’s been through so so much but gets back up every time. she is strong and resilient, and i found myself admiring her throughout the book.
rocky: cynical, protective, and sarcastic with a sharp tongue AND he hates everyone but her — need i say more? though he doesn’t like or trust most people, he is unfailingly loyal to and supportive of those he loves. as her older brother, he entertains hailey’s desire to start over even though he doesn’t agree with it, and he goes out of his way to ensure their parents don’t find out. he may not be the type of person to express his feelings verbally, but his actions make up for it.
hailey: she is the embodiment of “looks like they could kill you but is actually a cinnamon roll.” underneath her seemingly dark exterior is a gentle, loving friend and sister. we don’t get her pov in this book though so her character isn’t as developed as phoebe’s and rocky’s.
the romance: krista and becca ritchie shine when writing romance. they truly do it best. no one will ever beat lily and lo for me, but seeing phoebe and rocky’s relationship grow in this book was beautiful. they have feelings for each other, know those feelings are reciprocated, but choose not to be together for fear of what would happen if they made it official. there is a push and pull between them, and despite everything that happens, they remain in each other’s orbit. because that’s where they feel safe.
the found family: there are six of them, two sets of three siblings, and they’ve known each other since forever, so i’m not quite sure if found family is the correct term. BUT the bonds between these characters are so much like that of the addicted series. they would go to the ends of the earth to protect each other. if one of them is hurting, they are all hurting. if one of them is on the run, they are all on the run. i absolutely loved their dynamic and i can’t wait to read more about them in the next book(s).
thank you to netgalley and berkley publishing for an arc! 🫶
the characters:
phoebe: i adore her. her role in cons is to be the seductress. again and again she has been used just for her body, seen simply as an object and nothing more. it makes my heart ache to see her being treated that way and made to believe that that’s where her worth lies. though she’s escaping her life of crime primarily for her best friend, hailey, she too finds relief and comfort in the steadiness of her new life. she reminds me of lily in some ways, who’s been through so so much but gets back up every time. she is strong and resilient, and i found myself admiring her throughout the book.
rocky: cynical, protective, and sarcastic with a sharp tongue AND he hates everyone but her — need i say more? though he doesn’t like or trust most people, he is unfailingly loyal to and supportive of those he loves. as her older brother, he entertains hailey’s desire to start over even though he doesn’t agree with it, and he goes out of his way to ensure their parents don’t find out. he may not be the type of person to express his feelings verbally, but his actions make up for it.
hailey: she is the embodiment of “looks like they could kill you but is actually a cinnamon roll.” underneath her seemingly dark exterior is a gentle, loving friend and sister. we don’t get her pov in this book though so her character isn’t as developed as phoebe’s and rocky’s.
the romance: krista and becca ritchie shine when writing romance. they truly do it best. no one will ever beat lily and lo for me, but seeing phoebe and rocky’s relationship grow in this book was beautiful. they have feelings for each other, know those feelings are reciprocated, but choose not to be together for fear of what would happen if they made it official. there is a push and pull between them, and despite everything that happens, they remain in each other’s orbit. because that’s where they feel safe.
the found family: there are six of them, two sets of three siblings, and they’ve known each other since forever, so i’m not quite sure if found family is the correct term. BUT the bonds between these characters are so much like that of the addicted series. they would go to the ends of the earth to protect each other. if one of them is hurting, they are all hurting. if one of them is on the run, they are all on the run. i absolutely loved their dynamic and i can’t wait to read more about them in the next book(s).
thank you to netgalley and berkley publishing for an arc! 🫶
July 9, 2024
╰⪼ I should have paid attention to the bad reviews lol. Definitely not my favorite... FRTC shortly.
↬ 2.75 Stars
↬🍓Best Friend’s Older Brother
↬🍓Small Town
↬🍓Morally Grey MMC and FMC
↬🍓Childhood Friends
↬🍓He Falls First
↬🍓Con Artist Families
↬ 2.75 Stars
↬🍓Best Friend’s Older Brother
↬🍓Small Town
↬🍓Morally Grey MMC and FMC
↬🍓Childhood Friends
↬🍓He Falls First
↬🍓Con Artist Families
₊˚ ‿︵‿︵‿︵୨୧ · · ♡ · · ୨୧‿︵‿︵‿︵ ˚₊Ignoring the bad reviews like:
Excited for this new KBR world 🍓💗
April 16, 2024
2.5 ★
Dishonestly Yours follows two con artists— Phoebe and Rocky, as they try to navigate a possible life outside of conning, along with their complicated feelings for each other. for a book that follows people in that line of work, this book was pretty dull. Phoebe and her best friend Hailey (who’s also the younger sister of Rocky), want to move on from all the thieving and lying, so the flashbacks we do get of the past jobs they went on felt pointless and added nothing to the overall experience in my opinion. a lot of it made no sense in general and the amount of characters wasn’t helping either. this could’ve had potential, but it ended up falling flat for me and i can’t say im surprised cause i didn’t like Addicted to You either.
“Being with Rocky feels lethal— like it could end me at any moment— and yet, I loathe the very idea of stopping.”
if i had to choose who i preferred between the mc’s it would be Rocky, cause he’s a little more interesting than Phoebe but not by much. i was eating up the tension at first, but the whole “will they, won’t they” dragged on too long to the point where it started irritating me how dramatic they were being in their reasons for not getting together. Phoebe’s too immature and even though i can empathize with what she went through, it still didn’t make me like her overall. Rocky is so hot and cold with his behavior and i can’t say i was 100% feeling the chemistry cause we’re basically just told that they are soooo into each other due to their past, without actually getting many moments where they’re genuinely connecting in any real way in the present. i will say i did like Hailey and Jake as side characters, but i don’t know.. im just starting to think this author duo might not be for me unfortunately.
buddy read with my boo Daniella🍓💗
➺ thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the arc, all opinions are my own.
Dishonestly Yours follows two con artists— Phoebe and Rocky, as they try to navigate a possible life outside of conning, along with their complicated feelings for each other. for a book that follows people in that line of work, this book was pretty dull. Phoebe and her best friend Hailey (who’s also the younger sister of Rocky), want to move on from all the thieving and lying, so the flashbacks we do get of the past jobs they went on felt pointless and added nothing to the overall experience in my opinion. a lot of it made no sense in general and the amount of characters wasn’t helping either. this could’ve had potential, but it ended up falling flat for me and i can’t say im surprised cause i didn’t like Addicted to You either.
“Being with Rocky feels lethal— like it could end me at any moment— and yet, I loathe the very idea of stopping.”
if i had to choose who i preferred between the mc’s it would be Rocky, cause he’s a little more interesting than Phoebe but not by much. i was eating up the tension at first, but the whole “will they, won’t they” dragged on too long to the point where it started irritating me how dramatic they were being in their reasons for not getting together. Phoebe’s too immature and even though i can empathize with what she went through, it still didn’t make me like her overall. Rocky is so hot and cold with his behavior and i can’t say i was 100% feeling the chemistry cause we’re basically just told that they are soooo into each other due to their past, without actually getting many moments where they’re genuinely connecting in any real way in the present. i will say i did like Hailey and Jake as side characters, but i don’t know.. im just starting to think this author duo might not be for me unfortunately.
buddy read with my boo Daniella🍓💗
➺ thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the arc, all opinions are my own.
July 6, 2024
4.5 stars
The angst. The tension. The chemistry. The banter. This was so good!!
At first I was hesitant because a story about two con artists is sure to be filled with lying and deceiving and I wasn’t sure how that would work out, but the thing is those two would lie and deceive everyone except each other and that was everything to me. Deceiving and lying is their natural instinct, but when it comes to their feelings towards each other they’ve always been honest and true. They won’t act on their feelings, but it has always been there.
Rocky and phoebe’s relationship and dynamic was so good. The angst, tension, chemistry, and banter were everything! I loved these two so much and I felt so much for them. They have a weird but strong bond. I loved how protective they both were for those they love. I loved how they didn’t lie about their feelings even if they fought against them and believed it won’t be possible to turn into something.
The beginning was kinda slow, but the story was so interesting and enjoyable to read. The characters were flawed and three dimensional. I loved them all, and ugh I hate their parents so much!! But that bond and the found family trope was everything.
The last ten percent was crazy and the ending got me feeling so mad that I don’t have the second book! I grew so emotionally attached to those characters and their journey and I desperately want more. This was such a ride and it truly have potential to turn into a really enjoyable series.
Song recommendation:
Cowboy like me by Taylor Swift
Huge Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing this copy.
“I’ve always been dishonestly yours. And it looks like that’s not changing.”
The angst. The tension. The chemistry. The banter. This was so good!!
At first I was hesitant because a story about two con artists is sure to be filled with lying and deceiving and I wasn’t sure how that would work out, but the thing is those two would lie and deceive everyone except each other and that was everything to me. Deceiving and lying is their natural instinct, but when it comes to their feelings towards each other they’ve always been honest and true. They won’t act on their feelings, but it has always been there.
“Divorced?” I whisper to phoebe. “What happened to wanting to live honestly.?”
“I honestly feel like you’re my ex-husband.”
Rocky and phoebe’s relationship and dynamic was so good. The angst, tension, chemistry, and banter were everything! I loved these two so much and I felt so much for them. They have a weird but strong bond. I loved how protective they both were for those they love. I loved how they didn’t lie about their feelings even if they fought against them and believed it won’t be possible to turn into something.
The beginning was kinda slow, but the story was so interesting and enjoyable to read. The characters were flawed and three dimensional. I loved them all, and ugh I hate their parents so much!! But that bond and the found family trope was everything.
Rocky and I, together, are a volcanic eruption. One that’ll never end, not until the whole world is coated in magma.
The last ten percent was crazy and the ending got me feeling so mad that I don’t have the second book! I grew so emotionally attached to those characters and their journey and I desperately want more. This was such a ride and it truly have potential to turn into a really enjoyable series.
Song recommendation:
Cowboy like me by Taylor Swift
Huge Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing this copy.
September 13, 2024
the way that this is literally just lily and lo AU and i low key ate it up
i was so intrigued by them being con artists and how that would play into their relationship. i willlll say there was a cute lil unexpected fake dating/jealousy moment that was SCRUMPTIOUS oh my lord. also can we talk about how hot rocky is for two seconds because…hello 🙂↕️
phoebe!!!! best girl we love her. the bestie i could care less about to be honest 😭 every scene phoebe was in, she was stealing the show and i loved being in her pov.
all in all i’m so curious to see where this story goes because the cliffhanger??!??? CRIMINAL.
i was so intrigued by them being con artists and how that would play into their relationship. i willlll say there was a cute lil unexpected fake dating/jealousy moment that was SCRUMPTIOUS oh my lord. also can we talk about how hot rocky is for two seconds because…hello 🙂↕️
phoebe!!!! best girl we love her. the bestie i could care less about to be honest 😭 every scene phoebe was in, she was stealing the show and i loved being in her pov.
all in all i’m so curious to see where this story goes because the cliffhanger??!??? CRIMINAL.
July 10, 2024
3.5 stars
This was one my anticipated reads and my first Krista and Becca Ritchie book! I have some mixed feelings but overall, I was sucked into the world this author duo created and left wanting more. Both authors have a knack for captivating, romantic writing and developing complex characters. I can see why they are so popular and I will be back for more.
Dishonestly Yours follows two best friends and former con-artists, Phoebe and Hailey. They both move to a small, affluent town in Connecticut to live a quiet, honest life away from their families. Hailey's protective older brother, Rocky can't stay away and their chance for an honest start in tested by his presence. Phoebe is unsettled for a completely different reason and it has everything to do with forbidden thoughts about her best friend's brother.
— At a little under 500 pages, this is a lengthy start to a contemporary series. The pacing was up and down for me — while the concept of con-artists is intriguing there wasn't much action as I was expecting. This book set up a lot of the ground work for the series, so I'm anticipating that the next book will dive right in and progress quicker based on the ending.
— I enjoyed the romance, in fact, it was the main appeal in this instalment. Rocky and Phoebe had great chemistry. If you love slow burns and angst, this is for you. I haven't read the 'best friend's brother' trope for awhile and I enjoyed how the author handled this. Their dynamic is further complicated by their childhood friendship and close family relationship. The timeline was well balanced, with flashback scenes to give you an insight of their history and contained more action-centric scenes from their past jobs. I enjoyed experiencing some of the roles they have played together (although one scene in particular made my stomach uneasy lol). In the current timeline, the will-they-won't-they saga dragged on for too long and I went from flying through pages to getting irritated. When we finally get to the pivotal moment between them, it was worth the wait but it was over too quickly. I'm interested to see how their dynamic will play out in the next book.
— I didn't have much of an opinion on Hailey and I think it's mostly because we weren't given enough of an opportunity to get to know her. The story is told in dual POV, split between Rocky and Phoebe. I did care for Phoebe and what she went through. The story covers some heavier themes and I could empathise with her self-deprecating tendencies. Rocky hates everyone but his sister and Phoebe and I loved how protective and loyal he was. The found family was great, i'm hoping the authors will explore some of the side characters in the future.
This story partly reminded me of the tv show revenge - think rich, entitled and misogynistic socialites being tricked. What's not to love? I hope to see more of the con-artistry in the next book!
✨ Thank you Valentine PR, Berkley & the author for sending me an advanced reader copy!
"Rocky and I, together, are a volcanic eruption. One that’ll never end, not until the whole world is coated in magma."
This was one my anticipated reads and my first Krista and Becca Ritchie book! I have some mixed feelings but overall, I was sucked into the world this author duo created and left wanting more. Both authors have a knack for captivating, romantic writing and developing complex characters. I can see why they are so popular and I will be back for more.
Dishonestly Yours follows two best friends and former con-artists, Phoebe and Hailey. They both move to a small, affluent town in Connecticut to live a quiet, honest life away from their families. Hailey's protective older brother, Rocky can't stay away and their chance for an honest start in tested by his presence. Phoebe is unsettled for a completely different reason and it has everything to do with forbidden thoughts about her best friend's brother.
— At a little under 500 pages, this is a lengthy start to a contemporary series. The pacing was up and down for me — while the concept of con-artists is intriguing there wasn't much action as I was expecting. This book set up a lot of the ground work for the series, so I'm anticipating that the next book will dive right in and progress quicker based on the ending.
— I enjoyed the romance, in fact, it was the main appeal in this instalment. Rocky and Phoebe had great chemistry. If you love slow burns and angst, this is for you. I haven't read the 'best friend's brother' trope for awhile and I enjoyed how the author handled this. Their dynamic is further complicated by their childhood friendship and close family relationship. The timeline was well balanced, with flashback scenes to give you an insight of their history and contained more action-centric scenes from their past jobs. I enjoyed experiencing some of the roles they have played together (although one scene in particular made my stomach uneasy lol). In the current timeline, the will-they-won't-they saga dragged on for too long and I went from flying through pages to getting irritated. When we finally get to the pivotal moment between them, it was worth the wait but it was over too quickly. I'm interested to see how their dynamic will play out in the next book.
— I didn't have much of an opinion on Hailey and I think it's mostly because we weren't given enough of an opportunity to get to know her. The story is told in dual POV, split between Rocky and Phoebe. I did care for Phoebe and what she went through. The story covers some heavier themes and I could empathise with her self-deprecating tendencies. Rocky hates everyone but his sister and Phoebe and I loved how protective and loyal he was. The found family was great, i'm hoping the authors will explore some of the side characters in the future.
This story partly reminded me of the tv show revenge - think rich, entitled and misogynistic socialites being tricked. What's not to love? I hope to see more of the con-artistry in the next book!
✨ Thank you Valentine PR, Berkley & the author for sending me an advanced reader copy!
July 22, 2024
"I've always been dishonestly yours. And it looks like that's not changing."
Dishonestly Yours follows two best friends and con artists: Phoebe and Hailey. Both girls were raised by their parents to be a mastermind and a seductress in a life of scheming, lying, and deception. After a job gone wrong, they decide to move to a town away from their families to live a honest life. They have everything planned out and ready to go, except for one big problem. Hailey's brother and Phoebe's thorn in her side, Rocky, is not letting them go alone. When they get to a small town of incredibly wealthy and easy "marks", they find it is harder than they thought to stay on the straight and narrow path.
This book was just okay to me, I never found myself completely invested into the story. There were parts that were really cute and the banter and tension was great and then parts so dragged out and boring that I found myself skimming through. I couldn't really connect to the characters and found myself struggling to finish. It started off with so much potential, especially when it came to the banter and tension between Rocky and Phoebe. The first 25% I was completely enetertained but then the author spent way too much of the story laying down the groundwork, that the plot itself suffered. I will most likely read the next one simply because of the cliffhanger at the end of this one. Hoping that since the groundwork is now laid out that the next one will focus more on the plot.
*:･ﾟ✧Favorite Quotes*:･ﾟ✧
"Most people aren't what they seem to be at first sight."
"Rocky and I, together, are a volcano eruption. One that'll never end, not until the whole world is coated in magma."
"Our hate isn't real. It's the armor we carry to shield us from the truth."
"I will never be able to give myself to you. But it physically pains me to see you with anyone else--and if I can't have you , then no one else can."
"Loving you has been the most authentic and natural thing I've ever done in my life. And I don't protect you just because I'm told to. I protect you because I'm yours. You've had me since I was five."
Pre-Read Review:✨ Buddy Read with Megan✨
Love this cover💓
Going in completely blind, but fingers crossed that it delivers!🤞💓
April 17, 2024
2 stars★
“If you’re my shield, then I’m your crown.”
In Dishonestly Yours, we follow Rocky and Phoebe, who come from different families of con artists. They've been partners in crime, lying and scamming their way through various cities. But when a con goes wrong Hailey ,Rocky's sister & phoebe’s bestie, decides she wants out and convinces Phoebe to join her in starting a new life in a small town in Connecticut. Rocky catches up with them and decides to stick around.
As a fan of the Richie sisters, I was absolutely stoked to get my hands on this book. The premise sounded so unique and unlike anything I've read before. The first few chapters had me totally engrossed, dying to know what went down in that job that made them quit being con artists and why Phoebe and Rocky weren't already a thing. I thought it had the potential to be a 5-star read. But i was wrong🤡
Phoebe🍓 - it was disheartening to see Phoebe constantly objectified and reduced to her appearance. While learning about her experiences in the flashbacks made me feel sorry for her, I didn't quite warm up to her.
Rocky🕷️- is quite the character. He has this sassy and sarcastic demeanor, but deep down, he's fiercely devoted and protective of his loved ones. Even though he may not show it through words, his actions speak volumes about his love and support for his loved ones. I love that he was willing to go the extra mile to help Hailey start fresh, even if he doesn't necessarily agree with it. His perspective was really interesting
I was totally hooked on the tension between them, but man, It felt like they kept teasing us with the question of whether they would end up together or not, and it went on for way too long. Their reasons for not getting together started to bug me because they were being so overly theatrical about it. It feels like we're just given this information about their chemistry without actually seeing them connect. We mostly see their chemistry from the past, but not much in the present. So, I couldn't really sense that meaningful connection between them in the present. Getting glimpses of their past jobs in the flashback scenes felt kinda unnecessary to me. It didn't really bring anything meaningful to the overall experience. If only those moments had more significance or contributed more to the story, it would've made the whole experience so much better. It could've added depth and excitement to the overall narrative.
But you know what? I actually liked Hailey even more than the mc’s. We could all do with her best friend like her🥹👭 She's such a loving friend. My girl is also a speed reader! Something I wish to be. She devoured three books in just 20 minutes at the bookstore. I wonder if she'll get her own book too! The found family in this book is absolutely amazing. They're like a tight-knit group who would do anything to keep each other safe. It's heartwarming to see how far they'd go to protect one another.
I had a blast buddy reading with Krysta, even though the book didn't turn out as expected!
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
────────
pre-review: could this be a 5 stars 🤔 let’s see
another br with my girl krysta💅🏼🩷
“If you’re my shield, then I’m your crown.”
In Dishonestly Yours, we follow Rocky and Phoebe, who come from different families of con artists. They've been partners in crime, lying and scamming their way through various cities. But when a con goes wrong Hailey ,Rocky's sister & phoebe’s bestie, decides she wants out and convinces Phoebe to join her in starting a new life in a small town in Connecticut. Rocky catches up with them and decides to stick around.
As a fan of the Richie sisters, I was absolutely stoked to get my hands on this book. The premise sounded so unique and unlike anything I've read before. The first few chapters had me totally engrossed, dying to know what went down in that job that made them quit being con artists and why Phoebe and Rocky weren't already a thing. I thought it had the potential to be a 5-star read. But i was wrong🤡
Phoebe🍓 - it was disheartening to see Phoebe constantly objectified and reduced to her appearance. While learning about her experiences in the flashbacks made me feel sorry for her, I didn't quite warm up to her.
Rocky🕷️- is quite the character. He has this sassy and sarcastic demeanor, but deep down, he's fiercely devoted and protective of his loved ones. Even though he may not show it through words, his actions speak volumes about his love and support for his loved ones. I love that he was willing to go the extra mile to help Hailey start fresh, even if he doesn't necessarily agree with it. His perspective was really interesting
I was totally hooked on the tension between them, but man, It felt like they kept teasing us with the question of whether they would end up together or not, and it went on for way too long. Their reasons for not getting together started to bug me because they were being so overly theatrical about it. It feels like we're just given this information about their chemistry without actually seeing them connect. We mostly see their chemistry from the past, but not much in the present. So, I couldn't really sense that meaningful connection between them in the present. Getting glimpses of their past jobs in the flashback scenes felt kinda unnecessary to me. It didn't really bring anything meaningful to the overall experience. If only those moments had more significance or contributed more to the story, it would've made the whole experience so much better. It could've added depth and excitement to the overall narrative.
But you know what? I actually liked Hailey even more than the mc’s. We could all do with her best friend like her🥹👭 She's such a loving friend. My girl is also a speed reader! Something I wish to be. She devoured three books in just 20 minutes at the bookstore. I wonder if she'll get her own book too! The found family in this book is absolutely amazing. They're like a tight-knit group who would do anything to keep each other safe. It's heartwarming to see how far they'd go to protect one another.
I had a blast buddy reading with Krysta, even though the book didn't turn out as expected!
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
────────
pre-review: could this be a 5 stars 🤔 let’s see
another br with my girl krysta💅🏼🩷
November 8, 2024
➳ 3.5 ☆
this is the first novel in a trilogy (i believe) that follows our main characters phoebe & rocky. they are part of two con artist families, and have a history of lying, scheming, and being mendacious. on the surface this is a very interesting concept, however, there are parts of this that fell flat. ultimately my contention with the series is the pacing of their development and the characters overall deportment.
➺ phoebe graves : she is the main female character of this trilogy and she was very odd. her entire demeanor was forcing this hatred and projection onto rocky with zero honest reasons. in addition to this, her entire character felt like she was written as an objectification for men. i really don't know anything about her personality, internal struggles, or desires. her flashback chapters—although i felt sympathy for her—did not have an emotional impact, since nothing was explored. i am hoping we delve into this plot point in the next book. she was a quirky and fun character.
➺ brayden “rocky” tinrock : i liked him a little more than her, but even with his character, i fear the authors did not have much of an idea of how they wanted to portray him. his character had the potential to be compelling but something was just so bereft. i found his overall nodus and internal struggle to be more salient for this plot, but that's as far as his character goes for me. if i were to compare him to a krista + becca ritchie male main character—rocky was a mix of loren hale & ryke meadows, just watered down.
h
the side characters intrigued me, however, i am unsure if there will be any exploration of their characters. this book gave me a combination of magnolia parks, six of crows, and addicted calloway. there was nothing incoherently erroneous, just repetitive facile plot devices with a found family trope.
this book was very melodramatic & theatrical, albeit a fun toxic time. i am looking forward to book two in this series! i am glad they are not dragging this out into ten + books, because sometimes, enough is enough.
“loving you, though, that wasn’t a role i was given, phoebe. loving you has been the most authentic and natural thing i’ve ever done in my life. and i don’t protect you just because i’m told to. i protect you because i’m yours. you’ve had me since i was five.”
this is the first novel in a trilogy (i believe) that follows our main characters phoebe & rocky. they are part of two con artist families, and have a history of lying, scheming, and being mendacious. on the surface this is a very interesting concept, however, there are parts of this that fell flat. ultimately my contention with the series is the pacing of their development and the characters overall deportment.
➺ phoebe graves : she is the main female character of this trilogy and she was very odd. her entire demeanor was forcing this hatred and projection onto rocky with zero honest reasons. in addition to this, her entire character felt like she was written as an objectification for men. i really don't know anything about her personality, internal struggles, or desires. her flashback chapters—although i felt sympathy for her—did not have an emotional impact, since nothing was explored. i am hoping we delve into this plot point in the next book. she was a quirky and fun character.
➺ brayden “rocky” tinrock : i liked him a little more than her, but even with his character, i fear the authors did not have much of an idea of how they wanted to portray him. his character had the potential to be compelling but something was just so bereft. i found his overall nodus and internal struggle to be more salient for this plot, but that's as far as his character goes for me. if i were to compare him to a krista + becca ritchie male main character—rocky was a mix of loren hale & ryke meadows, just watered down.
h
the side characters intrigued me, however, i am unsure if there will be any exploration of their characters. this book gave me a combination of magnolia parks, six of crows, and addicted calloway. there was nothing incoherently erroneous, just repetitive facile plot devices with a found family trope.
this book was very melodramatic & theatrical, albeit a fun toxic time. i am looking forward to book two in this series! i am glad they are not dragging this out into ten + books, because sometimes, enough is enough.
May 4, 2024
🕸️⋆｡‧˚ʚ🍓ɞ˚‧｡⋆🕷️ "I've always been dishonestly yours. And it looks like that's not changing."
➵4.5 stars
Lies, manipulation, deception. The webs that weave around these characters are made up of this and much more. They live in shades of grey, in a world of their own, where the lines between fiction and reality are blurred.
ˏˋ ꒰ Living honestly isn't in his DNA. Just like it's never been in mine. ꒱ ˎˊ
The plot of this book is unlike anything I've read before. It starts slowly as we are introduced to the characters and their world, but once it picks up, oh my god, it was almost impossible to put the book down. As the stakes got higher, I felt more and more anxious. I have so many questions, there's still so much to be revealed, so many secrets. Is everything the characters believed about their lives a big lie? Is their whole life one giant con? I NEED TO KNOW!
Speaking of characters, I'm already so invested in their lives. I enjoyed getting to know them and I'm eager to learn more about each of them.
જ⁀➴ phoebe graves
Phoebe is a character with many layers, and I feel that this book has only scratched the surface of her. She seems so confident and independent, and she certainly has a "don't give a damn" attitude, but deep down I think there's a vulnerable girl who's not sure what her role in her life is. She doesn't really see her value outside of the roles she plays in the cons, which breaks my heart. I think she's so strong and resilient, I can't wait to see more of her.
ˏˋ ꒰ “It was like my body wasn't mine. And I kept thinking: Has it ever been mine?Have I ever felt like it belonged to me while anyone was touching me?" Her watery gaze meets mine. "And the answer was yes. The answer was you.” ꒱ ˎˊ
જ⁀➴ brayden “rocky” tinrock
Rocky already has my heart. He's a more fleshed out character and I'm so glad we get his POV, his thoughts about Phoebe destroyed me. He's the kind of person who will do anything for the people he loves, even to his own detriment. Rocky is bitter, cynical, doesn't trust easily and his relationship with his parents is extremely complicated, but for the sake of his siblings and friends he's willing to continue to live by their rules. It honestly tore me apart to see how hurt and angry he is.
ˏˋ ꒰ Slowly-or quickly, depending on your vantage-I was becoming bitter, cynical, and protective. I'd lost faith in most of humanity. It'd become easy to fuck everyone over, knowing that most people would just as easily screw me. ꒱ ˎˊ
જ⁀➴ phoebe & rocky
ˏˋ ꒰ "Loving you, though, that wasn't a role I was given, Phoebe. Loving you has been the most authentic and natural thing I've ever done in my life. And I don't protect you just because I'm told to. I protect you because I'm yours. You've had me since I was five." ꒱ ˎˊ
The Ritchie sisters promised an angsty, messy and complicated romance and they delivered. The relationship between Rocky and Phoebe is all that and more. Their chemistry is insane, they're so explosive and it's clear how much they love each other, but being together isn't as easy as they'd like it to be. The slow burn was delicious, it was so well written and I felt like I was going to combust as I waited for something to happen between them. They have so much history together, the threads that bind them are so strong and deep, I can't wait to see how their relationship develops in the next book.
ˏˋ ꒰ Being with Rocky feels lethal-like it could end me at any moment-and yet, I loathe the very idea of stopping. ꒱ ˎˊ
Hailey, Nova, Oliver and Trevor were great supporting characters in this book and I really hope we'll get books for all of them. They're so intriguing and I definitely want to get to know each of them better. There's so much potential for this to become one of my favourite found families. It's clear that they all love each other and would do anything to protect each other. After this ending, I'm sure they'll get even closer and work to understand how much of their lives is one big web of manipulation and deceit.
ˏˋ ꒰ The mastermind. The seductress. The silver-tongue. The chameleon. The getaway. And the psychopath. Hailey, Phoebe, me, Oliver, Nova, and Trevor. ꒱ ˎˊ
There are definitely some elements in this book that reminded me of the Addicted series, so I'm sure anyone who loves that series will enjoy this book. But it's definitely something new and fresh. The Ritchie sisters excel at writing about real, imperfect characters with messy lives and even messier family dynamics, so I'm looking forward to what comes next in this series. The cliffhanger at the end has me eagerly awaiting the next book.
Thank you NetGalley, Pan Macmillan and the authors for the e-arc
Want to read
September 30, 2023I’m only two books away from finishing the addicted series but can’t wait for this?? Feels like cheating on them although they’re all incomparable. But an angsty romance with two con artists who are more “messier than lily and lo” can you imagine? 🤭 Not to mention it having twists and turns and giving off Gilmore girls, one tree hill, Dawsons creek and outer bank vibes? I’m excited and hope it doesn’t disappoint
more info in the authors ig here
The details ^^
more info in the authors ig here
The details ^^
May 1, 2024
“I’ve always been dishonestly yours. And it looks like that’s not changing.”
i’m not sure what i initially expected when i started this book but i honestly enjoyed it so much. this book follows the family of con artists, specifically phoebe as she attempts to leave the life of crime behind with her best friend hailey but there’s only one speed bump in their way and it happens to be hailey’s older brother rocky.
rocky and phoebe seem to have a complex relationship in the past that we get slight glimpses of throughout the book. the authors really weren’t lying when they said angsty relationship and we get very push & pull interactions between the mc’s which could be a bit annoying at times but i love the banter and angst! while im not sure how i feel about phoebe just yet i loved rocky especially because he gave loren hale vibes plus i think we got more emotion from him<3
as for the side characters, i loved hailey and the rest of the siblings on both sides. i do not think anything could compare to the core six, a few characters did remind me of connor in the slightest way but as the books continue to release i feel like this found family will definitely be a top one!
a few issues i did have however, was the their relationship although we’re told it runs deep, it felt very surface level. the past moments were insightful but i wanted more vulnerability even though rocky and phoebe do not seem like emotional characters whatsoever. i had some other issues as well but im keeping this spoiler free but overall i enjoyed it a lot!!
thank you to netgalley and berkley publishing group for this arc in exchange for an honest review
——
how i finished this in five hours in one sitting beats me but rtc
October 21, 2024
October 2024 reread
I open my mouth, and as his fingers brush against my cheek and our lips near, those three words completely escape me.
Something else replaces them instead, and very softly I whisper "I'm your Phoebe."
The purest emotion brims his eyes. "I'm your Rocky."
Every star. Give it to this book.
As I was nearing the end of this book, I started trying to construct what I would say in this review. I finished the book roughly 11 hours ago and I still don’t know if my rambling thoughts will do this book justice but here we go:
Dishonestly Yours follows Phoebe Graves and Hailey Tinrock as they attempt to leave their life of conning behind and live more honestly. No lying, no deception. Seems easy enough until Hailey’s brother Rocky says he’s coming with them. Now Phoebe’s worried that his presence will cause them to backslide into their old ways.
The setting:
Phoebe and Hailey find their way to a wealthy coastal town and I absolutely love that this is the backdrop to this book. Phoebe and Hailey are con artists to their core - and suddenly they’re in a town full of wealthy people that could be the perfect marks - but no, they’re living the straight and narrow and they cannot give in to temptation. But I love that it exists. On the surface, the townies seem easy enough to read, but the longer Phoebe and Hailey are in town, the more they (and us the readers) uncover, which brings us to…
The characters:
This is the first time in a while that I’ve met a whole new cast of characters from Krista and Becca. Between all the books they’ve written, they manage to make each character sound so unique and different. It’s so refreshing to read and learn about them.
Phoebe and Rocky are of course the main characters and yes there is dual POV, so we get to be in both of their heads. They were both so much more complicated than I predicted - from the synopsis, I thought I understood their motivations, but I was way off. There is so much backstory to why they choose to live honestly or dishonestly and it surprised me (in a good way). I love that they were a bit unpredictable, because it kept me turning those pages to learn more.
All of the con artist characters have different roles in these cons that they run - Phoebe’s role in particular surprised me. Some of what the families do isn’t pretty, and you start to understand that Phoebe has a deep love for her family and wants to protect them from some of the seedier aspects of their cons whenever she can. She has her own way of protecting and it’s kinda heartbreaking to read about. You can’t help but admire the strength and determination she carries. But at the same time, I also respect her so much for wanting to change her life around and try to live an honest life. Phoebe still has these instincts from her old life and watching her battle them - it will twist your heart to pieces. I was rooting for her throughout the whole book. And also - she has this sassy, sexy side to her that had me cackling. I just loved her so much.
And then Rocky - Mr. McBroody - was also super complicated and unpredictable to me. I really thought he was following Phoebe and Hailey for certain reasons and I was so off. He’s very distrusting and it surprised me how that affected the way he goes through life. Rocky is also a big protector of his family but he’s more likely to take that immoral route, (especially compared to Phoebe and Hailey once they decide to leave their life of conning behind.) And as he watches the two of them commit to an honest life, and also interact with people in the town, he really starts to question himself. I loved seeing him work through his own motivations and character, when he’s willing to protect someone but at certain costs. He says there are lines that he’s far more willing to cross than most, and him coming to terms with what kind of person that makes him - it’s a fascinating look into a morally grey character’s thoughts.
Then we have the rest of the Tinrocks and Graves. Hailey Tinrock, Phoebe’s best friend - I loved her relationship with Phoebe so, so terribly. They come up with this pact to live honestly and you wonder why Hailey is so driven to make this plan stick. When you eventually find out, it just made me fall in love with her character even more. They are best friends, but it’s so much more. They are ride-or-dies, sisters from another mister, platonic soulmates who would protect the other at all costs. They have such an incredible bond that brought tears to my eyes. And Phoebe’s siblings - I love how tight they all are together. Secret code words, confiding in each other their deepest secrets, going through some pretty dark moments together. We don’t really find out the full extent of all they’ve endured (this is the first book after all) but they’re also so protective of each other. Yes, they’re siblings, but there’s still a sense of found family in their shared experiences.
Like I said before, Phoebe and Hailey picked a wealthy coastal town for their new life of honesty, but this town is filled with people who would be the perfect marks for these reforming con artists. And they are such a temptation. We meet a couple townies and on the surface they seem unassuming enough, just characters to help fill the town and bring a little bit of dialogue to the book. But the further into the story you get, you start to realize there’s a lot more under the surface and these townsfolk have plenty of their own secrets that I’m desperate to uncover.
And then we have the villains of this book. I can’t share who they are but omg they scare me. Samantha Calloway was evil in her own way - these characters are in a whole different league. I don’t know what their limits, boundaries truly are (and trust me, you’ll question it too). They loom in the background for most of this book and I spent plenty of time feeling all the nerves, waiting for the shoe to drop, for these characters to pull some big move. And when they did *head explodes* I was shook. I’m still shook. I will continue to be shook until I get the next book and more answers.
The plot:
At the core, this is a Krista & Becca Ritchie book, so I will say expect more character driven action, but there is still plenty of plot to keep readers invested. While they don’t have a ton of page time, there is this threat of the villains that is steeped into so many aspects of the storyline. They create this tension throughout the book, and give you a sense of wanting to look over your shoulder because you feel like they’re lurking just out of sight.
And then you have these secrets and suspicions that crop up from the other characters. There’s so much more going on in this new town that Phoebe and Hailey want to call home. As these two, and Rocky, start to become more entangled with the townsfolk, we start to unravel several threads that help drive the book forward even more. You will finish this book with so many questions and be desperate for any kind of answer.
THE ANGST
Krista & Becca started their writing career with the angsty, messy book that is Addicted to You. Over the years, they’ve mastered the art of angst and heartbreak, and it’s so very apparent in this book. Phoebe and Rocky will give Lily and Lo a run for their money. What really kept me hooked was this almost unbearable desire and desperation to see Phoebe and Rocky together. The number of times I was screaming in frustration, crying my eyes out over the tension between Phoebe and Rocky - brace yourselves. These two so clearly have an attraction for each other. They grew up together, have known each other for basically their entire lives, and so also care about each other. It’s there in all of their interactions but also in their subtle actions. But at the same time, we learn why they feel like they can’t and shouldn’t be together. I hate it, but I understand, which makes it even more difficult when I’m still desperately rooting for the two of them. They’ve played so many roles and have lived their lives so dishonestly; to love each other authentically, honestly as themselves, is too dangerous for them to try.
There’s a lot of history between Phoebe and Rocky to sort through. Krista & Becca wove their past so well into the storyline. The one that had me particularly anxious to learn more about was the con job that goes south - the whole reason that Phoebe and Hailey want to change their lives. This mystery job is constantly mentioned but not in detail and it adds so much to the angsty vibes of the book. I was flying through the pages to figure out answers to what actually happened.
There are some seriously heart wrenching moments and so many times that I felt pain because of these two. I just know that K&B (the self proclaimed writers of soulmate love) will - eventually - give these two a happy ending and it will be the most satisfying feeling after all this angst that we have to wade through. It may not be as soon as I want it, but I know it will be worth it.
All of this to say…
(if you’ve made it this far, I’m so impressed and thank you for reading my rambles)
This is such an incredible first installment in this series. I feel like a decent number of people who follow me on social media or read my reviews are here because they too are fans of Krista & Becca’s writing. But even if you are a newbie, this is a perfect start for you! It’s filled with all the hallmarks of their writing style - found family, fascinating relationship dynamics, character driven action, so much drama, unpredictable twists, OMFG moments, and the most soul-gripping, heart-wrenching, enduring romances in the world.
From chapter one, I was completely hooked. I felt an immediate connection to these complicated characters, and I needed to know everything I could about them. There are so many twists and WTF moments in this book, and it’s made me feral for the next book already. We’re only one book into the series and I’m already fully in love with this universe and all its characters. It was absolutely amazing, gave me all the vibes of my favorite older CW shows, and I already feel the biggest slump coming. I’m absolutely devastated by how long I’m gonna have to wait for the next installment.
Thank you Krista & Becca, and Berkley, for an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I open my mouth, and as his fingers brush against my cheek and our lips near, those three words completely escape me.
Something else replaces them instead, and very softly I whisper "I'm your Phoebe."
The purest emotion brims his eyes. "I'm your Rocky."
Every star. Give it to this book.
As I was nearing the end of this book, I started trying to construct what I would say in this review. I finished the book roughly 11 hours ago and I still don’t know if my rambling thoughts will do this book justice but here we go:
Dishonestly Yours follows Phoebe Graves and Hailey Tinrock as they attempt to leave their life of conning behind and live more honestly. No lying, no deception. Seems easy enough until Hailey’s brother Rocky says he’s coming with them. Now Phoebe’s worried that his presence will cause them to backslide into their old ways.
The setting:
Phoebe and Hailey find their way to a wealthy coastal town and I absolutely love that this is the backdrop to this book. Phoebe and Hailey are con artists to their core - and suddenly they’re in a town full of wealthy people that could be the perfect marks - but no, they’re living the straight and narrow and they cannot give in to temptation. But I love that it exists. On the surface, the townies seem easy enough to read, but the longer Phoebe and Hailey are in town, the more they (and us the readers) uncover, which brings us to…
The characters:
This is the first time in a while that I’ve met a whole new cast of characters from Krista and Becca. Between all the books they’ve written, they manage to make each character sound so unique and different. It’s so refreshing to read and learn about them.
Phoebe and Rocky are of course the main characters and yes there is dual POV, so we get to be in both of their heads. They were both so much more complicated than I predicted - from the synopsis, I thought I understood their motivations, but I was way off. There is so much backstory to why they choose to live honestly or dishonestly and it surprised me (in a good way). I love that they were a bit unpredictable, because it kept me turning those pages to learn more.
All of the con artist characters have different roles in these cons that they run - Phoebe’s role in particular surprised me. Some of what the families do isn’t pretty, and you start to understand that Phoebe has a deep love for her family and wants to protect them from some of the seedier aspects of their cons whenever she can. She has her own way of protecting and it’s kinda heartbreaking to read about. You can’t help but admire the strength and determination she carries. But at the same time, I also respect her so much for wanting to change her life around and try to live an honest life. Phoebe still has these instincts from her old life and watching her battle them - it will twist your heart to pieces. I was rooting for her throughout the whole book. And also - she has this sassy, sexy side to her that had me cackling. I just loved her so much.
And then Rocky - Mr. McBroody - was also super complicated and unpredictable to me. I really thought he was following Phoebe and Hailey for certain reasons and I was so off. He’s very distrusting and it surprised me how that affected the way he goes through life. Rocky is also a big protector of his family but he’s more likely to take that immoral route, (especially compared to Phoebe and Hailey once they decide to leave their life of conning behind.) And as he watches the two of them commit to an honest life, and also interact with people in the town, he really starts to question himself. I loved seeing him work through his own motivations and character, when he’s willing to protect someone but at certain costs. He says there are lines that he’s far more willing to cross than most, and him coming to terms with what kind of person that makes him - it’s a fascinating look into a morally grey character’s thoughts.
Then we have the rest of the Tinrocks and Graves. Hailey Tinrock, Phoebe’s best friend - I loved her relationship with Phoebe so, so terribly. They come up with this pact to live honestly and you wonder why Hailey is so driven to make this plan stick. When you eventually find out, it just made me fall in love with her character even more. They are best friends, but it’s so much more. They are ride-or-dies, sisters from another mister, platonic soulmates who would protect the other at all costs. They have such an incredible bond that brought tears to my eyes. And Phoebe’s siblings - I love how tight they all are together. Secret code words, confiding in each other their deepest secrets, going through some pretty dark moments together. We don’t really find out the full extent of all they’ve endured (this is the first book after all) but they’re also so protective of each other. Yes, they’re siblings, but there’s still a sense of found family in their shared experiences.
Like I said before, Phoebe and Hailey picked a wealthy coastal town for their new life of honesty, but this town is filled with people who would be the perfect marks for these reforming con artists. And they are such a temptation. We meet a couple townies and on the surface they seem unassuming enough, just characters to help fill the town and bring a little bit of dialogue to the book. But the further into the story you get, you start to realize there’s a lot more under the surface and these townsfolk have plenty of their own secrets that I’m desperate to uncover.
And then we have the villains of this book. I can’t share who they are but omg they scare me. Samantha Calloway was evil in her own way - these characters are in a whole different league. I don’t know what their limits, boundaries truly are (and trust me, you’ll question it too). They loom in the background for most of this book and I spent plenty of time feeling all the nerves, waiting for the shoe to drop, for these characters to pull some big move. And when they did *head explodes* I was shook. I’m still shook. I will continue to be shook until I get the next book and more answers.
The plot:
At the core, this is a Krista & Becca Ritchie book, so I will say expect more character driven action, but there is still plenty of plot to keep readers invested. While they don’t have a ton of page time, there is this threat of the villains that is steeped into so many aspects of the storyline. They create this tension throughout the book, and give you a sense of wanting to look over your shoulder because you feel like they’re lurking just out of sight.
And then you have these secrets and suspicions that crop up from the other characters. There’s so much more going on in this new town that Phoebe and Hailey want to call home. As these two, and Rocky, start to become more entangled with the townsfolk, we start to unravel several threads that help drive the book forward even more. You will finish this book with so many questions and be desperate for any kind of answer.
THE ANGST
Krista & Becca started their writing career with the angsty, messy book that is Addicted to You. Over the years, they’ve mastered the art of angst and heartbreak, and it’s so very apparent in this book. Phoebe and Rocky will give Lily and Lo a run for their money. What really kept me hooked was this almost unbearable desire and desperation to see Phoebe and Rocky together. The number of times I was screaming in frustration, crying my eyes out over the tension between Phoebe and Rocky - brace yourselves. These two so clearly have an attraction for each other. They grew up together, have known each other for basically their entire lives, and so also care about each other. It’s there in all of their interactions but also in their subtle actions. But at the same time, we learn why they feel like they can’t and shouldn’t be together. I hate it, but I understand, which makes it even more difficult when I’m still desperately rooting for the two of them. They’ve played so many roles and have lived their lives so dishonestly; to love each other authentically, honestly as themselves, is too dangerous for them to try.
There’s a lot of history between Phoebe and Rocky to sort through. Krista & Becca wove their past so well into the storyline. The one that had me particularly anxious to learn more about was the con job that goes south - the whole reason that Phoebe and Hailey want to change their lives. This mystery job is constantly mentioned but not in detail and it adds so much to the angsty vibes of the book. I was flying through the pages to figure out answers to what actually happened.
There are some seriously heart wrenching moments and so many times that I felt pain because of these two. I just know that K&B (the self proclaimed writers of soulmate love) will - eventually - give these two a happy ending and it will be the most satisfying feeling after all this angst that we have to wade through. It may not be as soon as I want it, but I know it will be worth it.
All of this to say…
(if you’ve made it this far, I’m so impressed and thank you for reading my rambles)
This is such an incredible first installment in this series. I feel like a decent number of people who follow me on social media or read my reviews are here because they too are fans of Krista & Becca’s writing. But even if you are a newbie, this is a perfect start for you! It’s filled with all the hallmarks of their writing style - found family, fascinating relationship dynamics, character driven action, so much drama, unpredictable twists, OMFG moments, and the most soul-gripping, heart-wrenching, enduring romances in the world.
From chapter one, I was completely hooked. I felt an immediate connection to these complicated characters, and I needed to know everything I could about them. There are so many twists and WTF moments in this book, and it’s made me feral for the next book already. We’re only one book into the series and I’m already fully in love with this universe and all its characters. It was absolutely amazing, gave me all the vibes of my favorite older CW shows, and I already feel the biggest slump coming. I’m absolutely devastated by how long I’m gonna have to wait for the next installment.
Thank you Krista & Becca, and Berkley, for an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 9, 2024
ˋ°•*⁀➷・❥・“𝓘'𝓿𝓮 𝓪𝓵𝔀𝓪𝔂𝓼 𝓫𝓮𝓱𝓸𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓽𝓵𝔂 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻𝓼. 𝓐𝓷𝓭 𝓲𝓽 𝓵𝓸𝓸𝓴𝓼 𝓵𝓲𝓴𝓮 𝓽𝓱𝓪𝓽'𝓼 𝓷𝓸𝓽 𝓬𝓱𝓪𝓷𝓰𝓲𝓷𝓰. ”・❥・ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
3.5 stars💫
This was my first book to read by the authors, and to say I might have fallen in love with the writing?🤭 can't wait to read the next book soon. Full RTC soon.
ˋ°•*⁀➷・❥・𝓟𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀・❥・ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
🍓06/29/24
*screaming, crying, dying* OH MY GOD, OH MY GODDDD! Eeee I got the ARC!😭💗 I have heard so many great things about the authors who wrote the Addicted series, which I haven't gotten the time to read yet. But this will be my first book by these authors, and honestly, I'm way too excited to read this that I'm even ditching all my crs once again😍💖 If I love this, maybe, you never know, I will end up binge-reading the Addicted series next month after this book🤭🤞🏻💕
Thank you Valentine PR, Berkley & the Authors for sending me an advanced reader copy!💞
3.5 stars💫
This was my first book to read by the authors, and to say I might have fallen in love with the writing?🤭 can't wait to read the next book soon. Full RTC soon.
ˋ°•*⁀➷・❥・𝓟𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀・❥・ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
🍓06/29/24
*screaming, crying, dying* OH MY GOD, OH MY GODDDD! Eeee I got the ARC!😭💗 I have heard so many great things about the authors who wrote the Addicted series, which I haven't gotten the time to read yet. But this will be my first book by these authors, and honestly, I'm way too excited to read this that I'm even ditching all my crs once again😍💖 If I love this, maybe, you never know, I will end up binge-reading the Addicted series next month after this book🤭🤞🏻💕
Thank you Valentine PR, Berkley & the Authors for sending me an advanced reader copy!💞
July 6, 2024
I'm intrigued, but also hesitant to jump on the band wagon. It feels like I'm cheating on my Cobalts, Hales, and Meadows.
___________________________________
This book has been my most anticipated new release of 2024.
I'm a huge fan of the core Six, but also fell so deeply in love with Farrow and Maximoff that I've re-read their books so many times I lost count. And I'm definitely looking forward to the next series about my favourites the Cobalts. Rose and Conner have always been one of my favourite power couples.
BUT, I also was ready for something new and different by KB Ritchie.
It saddens me, but I lost interest in some of their stories and it broke my heart.
Now, I can say with certainty, that Dishonestly Yours delivered in many ways, and was exactly what I was hoping for.
___________________________________
FASCINATING - DIFFERENT - THRILLING
Dishonestly Yours was just the beginning of a (I'm sure will be) fascinating series.
The plot was really cool, I got sucked in the minute I started the book, and it never let me go.
The main couple gives off the most delicious enemies to lovers but also soulmate vibes - this mix is so intriguing and I want MORE of it. And the sizzle between them is this bubbling heat, building until it explodes, and I can't get enough of it.
The wait until the next book is going to be really long, especially after the twist in the end and that cliffy 😮
The cast, especially the core six, are as mysterious and appealing as it can get. I'm super excited about the next book in this series, and I'm so happy that this new series is a must read for me!!!
I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did!!
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
___________________________________
This book has been my most anticipated new release of 2024.
I'm a huge fan of the core Six, but also fell so deeply in love with Farrow and Maximoff that I've re-read their books so many times I lost count. And I'm definitely looking forward to the next series about my favourites the Cobalts. Rose and Conner have always been one of my favourite power couples.
BUT, I also was ready for something new and different by KB Ritchie.
It saddens me, but I lost interest in some of their stories and it broke my heart.
Now, I can say with certainty, that Dishonestly Yours delivered in many ways, and was exactly what I was hoping for.
___________________________________
FASCINATING - DIFFERENT - THRILLING
Dishonestly Yours was just the beginning of a (I'm sure will be) fascinating series.
The plot was really cool, I got sucked in the minute I started the book, and it never let me go.
The main couple gives off the most delicious enemies to lovers but also soulmate vibes - this mix is so intriguing and I want MORE of it. And the sizzle between them is this bubbling heat, building until it explodes, and I can't get enough of it.
The wait until the next book is going to be really long, especially after the twist in the end and that cliffy 😮
The cast, especially the core six, are as mysterious and appealing as it can get. I'm super excited about the next book in this series, and I'm so happy that this new series is a must read for me!!!
I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did!!
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
August 4, 2024
I’m so disappointed 😭 No because I waited for so long to get this book and i had very high expectations especially after a-lot of people compared the couple in here withy precious lilo!!! I have alot of things to say. A LOT OF VERY NOT NICE THINGS TO SAY. So if you love thiss book so much i advice you to kindly not read the review 🫶🏻
Before i start with the ranting i want to say that the plot and the ending and rocky was the only things that i liked about the book just so I don’t sound like a total hater ✋🏻
Let the rant begins
1- phoebe ( side eyeee). She’s so stupid for someone who is supposed to deceive and con people. She got on my nerves A LOT. Only a blind person can’t she that she was been manipulated and being taking advantage of all her life! Everytime rocky tried to make her see. She didn’t believe him and her reasoning was really really stupid like child would’ve made more sense than her!
2- the unexpected love triangle ( criminal side eye). There is nothing i loathe more than love triangle! I don’t understand why it happened. It frustrated me so much i cried from anger. Yess i know she loved rocky but hello she liked jack too!! It was so provoking. It made me feel lost! I didn’t know who she was going to be with. Ugh i hated.
3- Carlsbad job! If you’re going to write something like that then right it properly! It was not dealt with well. They talked about it in one chapter and then it was like it never been mentioned! No.
4- rocky and phoebe relationships! Most of the time she was with jake. And when she was with rocky they were either fighting of bickering or trying to make eachother jealous. I’m not going to lie and say I didn’t like the tension and the angst there but I didn’t understand why they weren’t together! They left their parents and decided to live a clean life which means they’re going to be away from their parents which was the mean reason that prevented them from being together! So why continue torturing eachother and me!!!!!!!
5- the other characters were their but they weren’t really there too! I liked them but I didn’t feel much for them tbh.
Before i start with the ranting i want to say that the plot and the ending and rocky was the only things that i liked about the book just so I don’t sound like a total hater ✋🏻
Let the rant begins
1- phoebe ( side eyeee). She’s so stupid for someone who is supposed to deceive and con people. She got on my nerves A LOT. Only a blind person can’t she that she was been manipulated and being taking advantage of all her life! Everytime rocky tried to make her see. She didn’t believe him and her reasoning was really really stupid like child would’ve made more sense than her!
2- the unexpected love triangle ( criminal side eye). There is nothing i loathe more than love triangle! I don’t understand why it happened. It frustrated me so much i cried from anger. Yess i know she loved rocky but hello she liked jack too!! It was so provoking. It made me feel lost! I didn’t know who she was going to be with. Ugh i hated.
3- Carlsbad job! If you’re going to write something like that then right it properly! It was not dealt with well. They talked about it in one chapter and then it was like it never been mentioned! No.
4- rocky and phoebe relationships! Most of the time she was with jake. And when she was with rocky they were either fighting of bickering or trying to make eachother jealous. I’m not going to lie and say I didn’t like the tension and the angst there but I didn’t understand why they weren’t together! They left their parents and decided to live a clean life which means they’re going to be away from their parents which was the mean reason that prevented them from being together! So why continue torturing eachother and me!!!!!!!
5- the other characters were their but they weren’t really there too! I liked them but I didn’t feel much for them tbh.
July 27, 2024
this book felt like a set up for the rest of the series but i’m not complaining because i ate it UP!
+ found family >>>> !!!!!
excited to continue this universe!!!
+ found family >>>> !!!!!
excited to continue this universe!!!
June 11, 2024
4 stars
After reading the synopsis, I wasn't sure if Dishonestly Yours was a book I would normally pick up, but I'll read anything Krista and Becca write so here we go...
This book follows Rocky and Phoebe, and also their siblings. They come from two con families and have grown up doing cons together, as their mother's are best friends. Rocky's sister and Phoebe's best friend Hailey wants out of the life, so Phoebe joins her and they move across the country for a fresh start. Rocky follows.
It seems like Rocky can't stay away from Phoebe and honestly the feeling was mutual. These two have a history and throughout the story we get to read about some of their cons and their relationship. I'll be honest the first half of the book was a bit rocky for me, but the last half picked up and I got really into this one.
I'm so curious about the other siblings and about the shock at the end. I can't wait to see where this goes. I loved the family dynamics and of course the found family which is always a favorite.
“I’ve always been dishonestly yours. And it looks like that’s not changing.”
After reading the synopsis, I wasn't sure if Dishonestly Yours was a book I would normally pick up, but I'll read anything Krista and Becca write so here we go...
This book follows Rocky and Phoebe, and also their siblings. They come from two con families and have grown up doing cons together, as their mother's are best friends. Rocky's sister and Phoebe's best friend Hailey wants out of the life, so Phoebe joins her and they move across the country for a fresh start. Rocky follows.
It seems like Rocky can't stay away from Phoebe and honestly the feeling was mutual. These two have a history and throughout the story we get to read about some of their cons and their relationship. I'll be honest the first half of the book was a bit rocky for me, but the last half picked up and I got really into this one.
I'm so curious about the other siblings and about the shock at the end. I can't wait to see where this goes. I loved the family dynamics and of course the found family which is always a favorite.
April 15, 2024
Okay so this book is about a family of con artists so at first I was like ewww because nobody likes con artists right? But then I realized they were forced into this by family and that the people they con are often elites who are horrible people, so then I was like okay maybe I can get behind this. 😂
There were a lot of characters so at first I was a little confused, but this is going to be a series, so that will definitely be easier over time, that’s the only reason for my one star deduction.
Other than that, I really enjoyed the story, I think that the 2nd book will be even better, because the last 100 pages had so much going on and left on a cliffhanger.
There were also flashbacks throughout the book to their younger lives and previous cons which I really enjoyed and helped to provide background of their relationships.
Also the chemistry between Phoebe and Rocky was through the roof!! Can’t wait to see more of them in the future.
Thank you to Berkley and Netgalley for this free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
There were a lot of characters so at first I was a little confused, but this is going to be a series, so that will definitely be easier over time, that’s the only reason for my one star deduction.
Other than that, I really enjoyed the story, I think that the 2nd book will be even better, because the last 100 pages had so much going on and left on a cliffhanger.
There were also flashbacks throughout the book to their younger lives and previous cons which I really enjoyed and helped to provide background of their relationships.
Also the chemistry between Phoebe and Rocky was through the roof!! Can’t wait to see more of them in the future.
Thank you to Berkley and Netgalley for this free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Shelved as 'upcoming-releases'
December 6, 2023Mothers are releasing a new series new books in 2024 😭😭 NEW SERIES NEW BOOKS!!!! I'm so excited for this one because krista and becca never disappoints!!
- another friends to lovers 🥺
- angsty, messy and toxic love
- morally grey characters 😋
- wealthy coastal town (now this is giving me outer banks vibes 👀)
Phoebe and Rocky (I don't like mmc name) are more toxic then lilo!?!??!
Lilo is and will always be my superior couple. Period. Lilo invented love but im so excited see what phoebe and rocky have for us 🤭
- another friends to lovers 🥺
- angsty, messy and toxic love
- morally grey characters 😋
- wealthy coastal town (now this is giving me outer banks vibes 👀)
Phoebe and Rocky (I don't like mmc name) are more toxic then lilo!?!??!
Lilo is and will always be my superior couple. Period. Lilo invented love but im so excited see what phoebe and rocky have for us 🤭
July 13, 2024
Well this was FUN
I never got into their other series because the addiction aspect was def not for me, but this one pleasantly surprised me. I'm not usually own for found family either, but this book felt like a warm hug with toxic characters who would burn the world down for each other.
Thrown in some con-artists + childhood friends to lovers + a splash of "I can't let myself fall for you" and you've pretty much summed up this book. There was never a dull moment and we went out with a BANG at the end. Need book two yesterday.
I never got into their other series because the addiction aspect was def not for me, but this one pleasantly surprised me. I'm not usually own for found family either, but this book felt like a warm hug with toxic characters who would burn the world down for each other.
Thrown in some con-artists + childhood friends to lovers + a splash of "I can't let myself fall for you" and you've pretty much summed up this book. There was never a dull moment and we went out with a BANG at the end. Need book two yesterday.
Want to read
September 30, 2023i will read anything they write 🙏🏼 except the kids books cus those dont rlly exist
September 28, 2024
I ate it up and left no crumbssss
I missed their writing sfm and this filled a void inside me I never knew I had 😩
***
Whatever the story, I just know I’ll eat it up <3
I missed their writing sfm and this filled a void inside me I never knew I had 😩
***
Whatever the story, I just know I’ll eat it up <3
June 10, 2024
This is the third highly anticipated release that has been a disappointment for me recently.
Phoebe and her best friend Hailey, the daughters of con artist parents, decide to try and live an honest life. This means 'running' away and setting up in the small town of Victoria, Connecticut living a life free of crime. One major problem, Hailey's big brother Rocky decides to tag along.
The biggest issue in this book, is that it spends too much time trying to lay the groundwork for both families, and while it was fun to see all their past shenanigans, the plot and pacing suffer. The time jumps are all over the place and the book goes from moving at a glacial pace to suddenly flying through a whole month.
I liked Phoebe and Rocky as characters, however I did not enjoy them as a couple. I wanted them to be steamy, toxic and pining for each other when in reality we got a dollar store Lo & Lily. The tension felt forced and both characters felt a lot younger than they were supposed to be.
My favourite part of the book was when all the siblings were together, and I wish the authors had brought them in a lot earlier. I hope we see the authors delve in deeper to the siblings, especially with the revelation at the end of the book!
The plot twist was completely unexpected, which I always love when a book surprises me!
Overall, I think if you're fans of the 'Addicted' Series by the authors, you'll probably find this an okay read. What was an interesting premise was bogged down with too much information thrown at us. But the writing is decent in places and this book does set up the sequel nicely, so I'll definitely be continuing the series for the time-being.
I received an advanced copy for free through NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Phoebe and her best friend Hailey, the daughters of con artist parents, decide to try and live an honest life. This means 'running' away and setting up in the small town of Victoria, Connecticut living a life free of crime. One major problem, Hailey's big brother Rocky decides to tag along.
The biggest issue in this book, is that it spends too much time trying to lay the groundwork for both families, and while it was fun to see all their past shenanigans, the plot and pacing suffer. The time jumps are all over the place and the book goes from moving at a glacial pace to suddenly flying through a whole month.
I liked Phoebe and Rocky as characters, however I did not enjoy them as a couple. I wanted them to be steamy, toxic and pining for each other when in reality we got a dollar store Lo & Lily. The tension felt forced and both characters felt a lot younger than they were supposed to be.
My favourite part of the book was when all the siblings were together, and I wish the authors had brought them in a lot earlier. I hope we see the authors delve in deeper to the siblings, especially with the revelation at the end of the book!
The plot twist was completely unexpected, which I always love when a book surprises me!
Overall, I think if you're fans of the 'Addicted' Series by the authors, you'll probably find this an okay read. What was an interesting premise was bogged down with too much information thrown at us. But the writing is decent in places and this book does set up the sequel nicely, so I'll definitely be continuing the series for the time-being.
I received an advanced copy for free through NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Want to read
September 30, 2023omg theres a cover ah im so excited for this i’ll read anything kbr release 😩 ignoring the fact i don’t think i’ll ever be ready to start the like us series
Want to read
September 30, 2023i wanna know what's up with the strawberry & the spider 🍓🕷
July 10, 2024
reread - 5 stars ⭐️🫢😮💨⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I decided to listen to the audiobook after I read the physical copy, and I'll tell you that when you read it for the second time, you dive deeper into the story and find smth new.
One thing just blew my mind, and I'm glad that Krista and Becca Ritchie brought it up.
Spoilers below + heavy topic:
Phoebe is a victim of s*xualization, which is a huge problem that even Phoebe herself does not fully realize I think (thanks to her evil parents). She has merged with the role of s'x object, and began unconsciously to act in accordance with these behavioral patterns (free n**ples in front of Jake).
One of the main consequences of female s*xualization is that it contributes to the development of r*pe culture, and we saw how it turned out for her in Carlsbad or with the freak who sl*pped her in the face.
Of course, I understand that she was taught to be a seductress, but this does not reduce the severity of the consequences that she faces on a daily basis.
Speaking of our world, Phoebe is a great example of a beautiful girl with curves who is accused of being a sl*t or a simpleton (Ivy con). And this is something that many girls face on a daily basis. People think that appearance determines your behavior and intimate life. This is a pattern that is engraved in our lives. UNFORTUNATELY!
Well, I can keep writing my "essay" (sorry), but I just want to say that this is a huge issue with no end that brings a lot of mental health issues to the person facing it.
I hope Krista and Becca dig into this topic and kick their parents' as*es in the next books.
----------------------------------------------------
5 staaars
it’s been quite a ride (emotional for sure)
I swallowed this book so quickly!
Shoutout to the writing style of Ritchie twins, it was bliss to read.
The plot is well thought out, the characters, the family ties, the love line - Chief Kiss☄️💔
I decided to listen to the audiobook after I read the physical copy, and I'll tell you that when you read it for the second time, you dive deeper into the story and find smth new.
One thing just blew my mind, and I'm glad that Krista and Becca Ritchie brought it up.
Spoilers below + heavy topic:
Phoebe is a victim of s*xualization, which is a huge problem that even Phoebe herself does not fully realize I think (thanks to her evil parents). She has merged with the role of s'x object, and began unconsciously to act in accordance with these behavioral patterns (free n**ples in front of Jake).
One of the main consequences of female s*xualization is that it contributes to the development of r*pe culture, and we saw how it turned out for her in Carlsbad or with the freak who sl*pped her in the face.
Of course, I understand that she was taught to be a seductress, but this does not reduce the severity of the consequences that she faces on a daily basis.
Speaking of our world, Phoebe is a great example of a beautiful girl with curves who is accused of being a sl*t or a simpleton (Ivy con). And this is something that many girls face on a daily basis. People think that appearance determines your behavior and intimate life. This is a pattern that is engraved in our lives. UNFORTUNATELY!
Well, I can keep writing my "essay" (sorry), but I just want to say that this is a huge issue with no end that brings a lot of mental health issues to the person facing it.
I hope Krista and Becca dig into this topic and kick their parents' as*es in the next books.
----------------------------------------------------
5 staaars
it’s been quite a ride (emotional for sure)
I swallowed this book so quickly!
Shoutout to the writing style of Ritchie twins, it was bliss to read.
The plot is well thought out, the characters, the family ties, the love line - Chief Kiss☄️💔
May 2, 2024
I received this book as an arc from Pan Macmillan through Netgalley, and I am so grateful I was approved for it as this book was so good! I loved the con woman plot, and I loved the characters growth sm in this book. I was shocked at 2 of the plot twists near the end as I was not expecting them at all. I also loveddd the mini nod to the 'Fizzle' drink company that is part of the Addicted-Calloway series background. The MMC really grew on me as this book went on, and I cannot wait for book 2 to come out! I highly recommend this book to everyone when it comes out, regardless of whether you have read the Addicted-Calloway sister series or not.
Quotes
- “I’ve always been dishonestly yours. And it looks like that’s not changing.”
Tropes
- Best Friend's Brother
- Morally Grey Characters
- Con Artist Families
Quotes
- “I’ve always been dishonestly yours. And it looks like that’s not changing.”
Tropes
- Best Friend's Brother
- Morally Grey Characters
- Con Artist Families
October 1, 2024
‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾☆ 4.25 very honest stars ☆☽༓･*˚⁺‧͙
An enthralling tale of temptation, redemption, and finding your moral compass, Dishonestly Yours lights the way as a must-read of the summer.
playlist 🎧: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/75i...
pinterest board 📌: https://pin.it/7AHQhTNEW
In an age of recycled plots and disappointing dialogue, Krista and Becca Ritchie breathe life into everything that is modern literature, time and time again. After taking the world by storm with the Addicted series, these two sisters successfully set yet another precedent that I’ve no doubt they’ll surpass the more we delve into the Webs We Weave universe.
“Rocky isn’t in the equation. He never was. Living honestly isn’t in his DNA. Just like it’s never been in mine.”
Phoebe Graves, the Seductress, is a protagonist with nuances so strong, you won’t be able to resist the pull of her at your heartstrings. After being entangled in enough webs of deception to last a lifetime, she finds herself seeking a new beginning in an enigma of a town on the upper East coast in Connecticut. With only her freshly dyed hair and best friend, Hailey, by her side, Phoebe is determined to make the most of this humble and honest way of living; despite the cost of being in a constant state of unknown.
“I’ve always been dishonestly yours. And it looks like that’s not changing.”
Brayden “Rocky” Tinrock, the Silver-Tongue of the team, is a riddle I may spend my entire life trying to solve. Edges jaded from years of tasting the bitter betrayal of family, or rather, parental, secrets, Rocky is a fierce protector of those he loveshe past, present, and future; a role he isn’t quite committed to playing long term. Nonetheless, he’s willing to bear the repercussions of faking the part, even if it's purely to preserve the last of his sister’s dwindling happiness.
“Rocky and I, together, are a volcanic eruption. One that’ll never end, not until the whole world is coated in magma.”
Together, Phoebe and Rocky are a force that even nature couldn’t reckon with. A captivating dynamic that is the very definition of palpable angst, if you will. As someone that tends to shy away from slow burns, the story itself is balanced perfectly between being character and plot driven, that I didn’t mind the delay of romantic progression in their relationship. It flowed naturally to set the upcoming installment of the series up for their well-timed, happy (hopefully) ending.
With a cast of never before seen characters, the Ritchie sisters deliver the found family trope in spades, as per usual. I will forever be impressed at their ability to establish distinctly authentic characters from their predecessors, a skill that many authors spend years trying to hone. More than that, their approach to story-telling is original in a way that keeps you yearning for more.
Not even a chapter in, I could tell my heart was no longer mine. Instead, it would be trapped inside the pages alongside the very souls of those that stole it. The best stories are the ones that entrance you in a manner that is contradictory to time. In translation, I read this in a day without even thinking about it, and would do it again in a heartbeat. So much so that as an avid one-time reader, I’m already planning my pre-release re-read.
With its powerful plot-twists and gripping prose, Dishonestly Yours is set to change the trajectory of romance as we know it.
Thank you to Berkley Romance and Krista and Becca Ritchie for so kindly providing me with an ARC. As always, all thoughts are my own and are in no way influenced by early access to this title.
An enthralling tale of temptation, redemption, and finding your moral compass, Dishonestly Yours lights the way as a must-read of the summer.
playlist 🎧: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/75i...
pinterest board 📌: https://pin.it/7AHQhTNEW
In an age of recycled plots and disappointing dialogue, Krista and Becca Ritchie breathe life into everything that is modern literature, time and time again. After taking the world by storm with the Addicted series, these two sisters successfully set yet another precedent that I’ve no doubt they’ll surpass the more we delve into the Webs We Weave universe.
“Rocky isn’t in the equation. He never was. Living honestly isn’t in his DNA. Just like it’s never been in mine.”
Phoebe Graves, the Seductress, is a protagonist with nuances so strong, you won’t be able to resist the pull of her at your heartstrings. After being entangled in enough webs of deception to last a lifetime, she finds herself seeking a new beginning in an enigma of a town on the upper East coast in Connecticut. With only her freshly dyed hair and best friend, Hailey, by her side, Phoebe is determined to make the most of this humble and honest way of living; despite the cost of being in a constant state of unknown.
“I’ve always been dishonestly yours. And it looks like that’s not changing.”
Brayden “Rocky” Tinrock, the Silver-Tongue of the team, is a riddle I may spend my entire life trying to solve. Edges jaded from years of tasting the bitter betrayal of family, or rather, parental, secrets, Rocky is a fierce protector of those he loveshe past, present, and future; a role he isn’t quite committed to playing long term. Nonetheless, he’s willing to bear the repercussions of faking the part, even if it's purely to preserve the last of his sister’s dwindling happiness.
“Rocky and I, together, are a volcanic eruption. One that’ll never end, not until the whole world is coated in magma.”
Together, Phoebe and Rocky are a force that even nature couldn’t reckon with. A captivating dynamic that is the very definition of palpable angst, if you will. As someone that tends to shy away from slow burns, the story itself is balanced perfectly between being character and plot driven, that I didn’t mind the delay of romantic progression in their relationship. It flowed naturally to set the upcoming installment of the series up for their well-timed, happy (hopefully) ending.
With a cast of never before seen characters, the Ritchie sisters deliver the found family trope in spades, as per usual. I will forever be impressed at their ability to establish distinctly authentic characters from their predecessors, a skill that many authors spend years trying to hone. More than that, their approach to story-telling is original in a way that keeps you yearning for more.
Not even a chapter in, I could tell my heart was no longer mine. Instead, it would be trapped inside the pages alongside the very souls of those that stole it. The best stories are the ones that entrance you in a manner that is contradictory to time. In translation, I read this in a day without even thinking about it, and would do it again in a heartbeat. So much so that as an avid one-time reader, I’m already planning my pre-release re-read.
With its powerful plot-twists and gripping prose, Dishonestly Yours is set to change the trajectory of romance as we know it.
Thank you to Berkley Romance and Krista and Becca Ritchie for so kindly providing me with an ARC. As always, all thoughts are my own and are in no way influenced by early access to this title.
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