Half Truths by Claire Contreras

For about the first 1/3 of this book, I wasn't sure what to think of it. I didn't find any of the characters likeable, and it took a while for the mystery of the Cloaks to suck me in. I'd been interested in this book for months, so I really wanted to stick it out. I'm glad I did! In addition to the story, the narrators were perfect.

I was just sitting at work making IVs, having a good time. Then, chapter 34 hit me, and BAM! I've been trying to decide if this book counts as enemies to lovers, and I'm set on a strong maybe.

I called the twist about Lana but was blindsided by who the bad guy really was. I feel like I should have seen it coming, but I never claimed to be the best at figuring these out. Probably why I'm trying to be a fantasy writer, not mystery

The book description had me expecting an awesome story with a strong, intelligent heroine who would be cunning enough to take down the secret societies and cause some mayhem as payback for what happened to her brother/friend. I should have known what kind of book this would be when the stupid, weak, vain heroine does the trope-y cliche of tripping into the snarling handsome asshole who she ends up loving (of course) – I should have dropped the book right then and there for this scene alone. Her so-called “investigation” is laughable. The secret societies are so cringe-worthy. Also ... hello, telegraphing the villain much? I'm shocked the word VILLAIN wasn't written in marker across their forehead. WTF. (Which goes to show how doubly stupid the main character is.)

This story could have been SO MUCH MORE. Instead we have characters bumbling all over the place like idiots, no chemistry between characters who are supposed to have the hots for each other, and overall epic levels of eyeroll-worthy cringe.

This was recommended by a friend, I wasn't to thrilled with this read. The plot revolves around a wealthy Senior in college who transfers her senior year to another college where she's initiated into a secret society her brother and father were a part of. Instantly she begins a relationship with the popular hockey player who...wait for it...is in this secret society too!! As goes without saying that relationship flourished and the secret society secrets are told. There's really no substance to the characters, the “f” word is used more than I care for in a book, and of course there's sex which would be included of course. Not my cup of tea, but definitely an easy read.