I did enjoy this book, but it read like a first or second draft to me. The perspective shifts between "then" and "now" very often, which makes it a little more difficult to read. I liked the references, such as the references to Dr. Who and the Truman Show.

It completely captivated me with its intricate plot and vivid characterization. This book is not just a romance; it's a deep dive into relationships tangled with secrets and deception. The author crafts a narrative that is both suspenseful and emotionally engaging, making it hard to put down.

It took me a bit of time to get into this book but I am so glad I kept going, not really for the romance, which was a bit sketchy if I’m honest, but it was laugh out loud funny. Although books often raise a smile it isn’t often I find myself audibly chuckle and for that reason I would recommend it. If you’re looking for a romance to rock your world I’m not sure you’ll find it in these pages. but if you’re looking for an engaging storyline with a character who knows her own mind, look no further. The relationship I did enjoy was the familial one with parents who seem to route for their daughter no matter what.

This book was unlike any other I’ve read before, and I’m glad I gave it a try. It’s not my usual genre but I found myself hooked, staying up late to read just one more chapter. I did think at times the book was a little confusing when it kept jumping from now to then, however I’d say around half way through the book it became easier to follow. Character wise, some of the dialogue was a little cliche but overall I’d say they were likeable. Overall, I’d say the book was a fun read and I’d happily look out for any more from this author.

Thank you for allowing me to read this ARC in return of an honest review.

This book wasn't for me. It jumped around too much in the beginning of the story and it was hard to get into.

Thank you to NetGallery and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Lovely book! While I typically read and review books that are purely romance or romantic comedies, Love Painted in Lies was refreshingly different in that romance felt like a subplot. I enjoyed that the story involved more than just a romantic thrill of the chase but an actual chase too! There was comedy, mystery, action, and romance which made for a talented work by Holly Denham.

I lived in Maida Vale for six months, so the setting of this book holds a special place in my heart. It was nostaglic to read this story knowing all too well what it is to live in the area. Though my experience there did enhance my experience reading this book, I can say the picture Denham paints of Maida Vale and Little Venice is one that can allow any reader to put themselves there in their mind. What a great location to set a story revolving around art!

Overall, I really loved reading this book. For a book of this size, I would often read it in one sitting, but I read it in three because I did not want it to be over so soon. I could say more but I dare not say anything that would cause any reader not to go into this book with an open mind and a readiness to be engaged in a all-around good story. Excited to tell my former Maida Vale flatmates about this one!

The family dynamics of this hit close to home for me, which made for an enjoyable read (to a point). I flat out adored Minty and was rooting for her every step of the way! The book was funny and the plot was one that is easy to connect with.

Honestly, this book was an unexpected reading and a difficult voluntary review to write, but not because the book wasn’t hilarious or interesting, is that the family dynamic of the main character reflects a little my own and that was difficult to deal with.

Minty is this talented artist who is afraid to express through her art her uniqueness. She thinks is easier to copy someone else’s art instead expressing herself and maybe being judged wrongly or rejected by her own father and the rest of the world. Due to this wrongly misconceptions and fears, she gets entangled with the mafia, police and even imprisoned for fraud. Her life becomes a chain of chaos, mixed with a strong feeling of family loyalty, and life resignation.
This chaos brings stressful, humiliating and sometimes laughable situations that will make you root for Minty so she could find peace, happiness, love and personal success as herself.
The story was well written, the characters well defined and the plot crazy and hilarious which reminded me of the Chavy Chase’s movies a bit.

I just reviewed Love Painted in Lies: A Maida Vale Tale by Holly Denham. #lovepaintedinlies #NetGalley

This was a cute and fun book. Very amusing characters who were also somehow true to life. The book has some twists and turns and I would definitely recommend it as a light quick beach read. Enjoy!

Not for me.

I had a hard time getting into this book. I didn't like the characters and I couldn't connect with them. The main character was very immature and I couldn't empathize with her.

I didn't find the book funny at all, but rather silly. The premise is interesting and has potential, though.

#lovepaintedinlies #NetGalley

This book was really good. I don't really have anything to say about it since I dnfed it since it was getting kinda boring for me and it felt like chore reading it. Regardless it was a good book

What a hilarious fun and witty very British book this is. Minty is an art forger who works in the family business. She is also raising twins. She has an old English Sheepdog and she helps care for her parents. Minty has anew wonderful life now but because of her families business and the “law” doesn’t think so and they decide to keep a watch on her. She knows about a missing painting but she just wants to get her life back to normal. A stranger appears whom brings intrigue and romance back into left. This story is fun as Minty tries navigate raising her twins, dealing with her parents, a new man etc. All she needs to do is find this missing painting that she may of had some involvement with before. She needs to clear her familie’s name and her before they try to send her to jail.

So so funny. I laughed out loud a few times. The book presents us a strong minded but very caring woman in her mid thirties who did some art forgeries in her youth and whose past seems to finally catch up with her.

How she interacts with the people in her life whilst dealing with the criminal underworld and the police at the same time is hilarious. Her unique character shines mostly through the relationships with her family, especially with her kids and her aging parents, as well as the love interest. But there are also some more serious topics like dealing with being different, grievance and bullying.

Whilst the first two thirds were mostly portraying the mc’s daily life, the last third was more of a show down adventure. Still good but less unique than the beginning.

I had a bit of a hard time getting into this story. The story jumped around in the beginning too much for me so I had a hard time following a long!

DNF at 20%.

I would’ve loved to like this book. I’m always here for a romance story to relax and have fun, but I couldn’t finish this one. Too many typos and inconsistencies make it difficult to keep reading. The storytelling was weak as well. I think with a good editing, I can give it another chance but right now - not for me.

I am very excited to be reading this book! My full review to follow.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Unusual and thought provoking novel. Three siblings trying to gain their father’s approval. This books had me laughing and gasping in shock with the shenanigans of Minty, she goes into her own world but always trying to get her dads approval she works hard for it unlike her older sister who has it in abundance.
Minty is an art forger and has been in prison for it she took the blame for the whole operation letting her sister and brother lead their lives. Then her mother is diagnosed with dementia and she’s has to move back home to look after her. Then comes the police and a Glasgow gangster looking for a painting she stole long time ago.
Hilarious in parts but also deep in others
Fantastic read

This book was so good. The plot was very well written and it had some great plot twists. I would highly recommend this book.

I enjoyed the British banter that this book featured as it’s been a while since I’ve read anything written by a British author! Minty was fun and it was refreshing to read something from such an eccentric point of view!

I did feel sorry for her and like she just couldn’t seem to catch a break on top of not being completely ‘normal’ of constantly reminded of the fact. I struggled a little bit with the dual time lines but as the book progressed they were easier to navigate.

Overall I thought this book was good and had lots of funny elements to it!

Yes, this is a really funny book in which disaster after disaster sends the reader hurtling towards a very satisfying wrap-up. The characters and the situations they find themselves in are often hysterical and the author creates a real sense of life through the dialogue. But this book also captures an incredibly important message about inclusion - how different we all are and how labelling and judging can get in the way of living. I found parts of this book incredibly sad as the experiences of someone “different” struggled to get along within the rails of “normal” expectations. So, yes, people can read it for a genuine laugh but I also hope people will take a moment to reflect on inclusion, difference and judgement,