Omg! This book is absolutely incredible

I love the world building and the unique side and use of dance. I’m no dancer myself, but the way dancing was described made me feel goosebumps.

A beautiful story, I loved every minute of this read!

Couldn’t think of a better book for my first ARC!

A Dance of Lies is a debut romantasy novel following Vasalie, a dancer turned spy who is trying to win her freedom without dooming an entire kingdom to a terrible fate.

I’m not usually drawn to books about dance, but this one captivated me with its powerful emotion, portraying passion and freedom through movement.

A dance of lies has suspense, lies, plotting, elements of fate and a very charming king that make this a great read.

Plus keeping readers on their toes guessing who the love interest would be kept things very interesting!

I will also say there was something magical about the way the setting and events were written that I really enjoyed.

Overall I’d recommend if you enjoy the romantasy genre, dance, secrets and lies or prophecies and fate!

While it took some time for me to get fully immersed in the story, I was ultimately pulled in. The pacing was slower than I usually enjoy, and I struggled to form a connection with the characters, but despite that, I couldn't stop turning the pages. There was something about the book that kept me reading until the very end.

The romance is more of a subplot, which I didn't mind. The vivid creativity woven into the dancing was such a unique and beautifully crafted element that added depth to the story. I loved the way Vasalie used her disability to her advantage.

The ending caught me off guard, not in the outcome, but in how it unfolded. I always appreciate a twist that can surprise me like that.

I really wanted to love A Dance of Lies, the concept sounded amazing, and I’d seen a lot of hype around it. A disabled dancer turned spy? Political intrigue and royal secrets? It all sounded right up my alley. And to be fair, there were some really beautiful moments in the writing, and I did appreciate how Vasalie’s disability was portrayed with care and consistency throughout.

But overall, the pacing just didn’t work for me. The story had stretches that felt really slow, and then other moments that seemed rushed or underdeveloped. I struggled to stay fully hooked, even though I was rooting for the main character. Some parts of the plot felt a little too familiar, like I’d seen it done before, but stronger elsewhere.

I can totally see why other readers connected with it more, especially if they love character-driven stories with emotional depth and rich prose. For me though, it just didn’t completely land. A solid debut with good ideas, but not a standout in the YA fantasy space.

A Dance of Lies’ Book Review
3 Stars
Thank- you to NetGalley and the author Brittney Arena for the eBook in exchange for an honest review.

In ‘A Dance of Lies’ we follow the protagonist Vasalie Moran, a professional dancer who has been imprisoned for years for a crime she did not commit. In order to escape prison and a miserable future she is tasked with being a spy for her King Illian, who is responsible for her imprisonment. After her time in prison, she is left in chronic pain and unable to physically perform as a dancer like she did before her wrongful imprisonment. I enjoyed the representation of having a disabled female lead and Vasalie finds unique ways to overcome this obstacle. Although I would have enjoyed a greater emphasis on her power of mind rather than such a strong emphasis on her ability to dance. This was definitely touched on, but a large portion of the book relied on her ability to perform complex dances. It was also difficult to believe that she would so easily gain the trust and close friendship of people and have them reveal their most private secrets in a few days of knowing each other.

Throughout the book we receive Vasalie’s point of view, which was continuously negative, and although deservedly so, it became draining and repetitive to read. There was a constant inner monologue of “I’m broken”, which in this novel I did not feel she overcame but I’m hopeful that she will in future books in the series. I would have enjoyed seeing greater character growth from Vasalie in this novel.

Vasalie is consistently praised for her brilliance but tends to make some very poor decisions, particularly toward the end of the novel. Vasalie’s decisions often negatively impacted people that were kind and friends to her and benefitted people that abused her, which is obviously going to happen while she is a spy. Although, when she is finally given the opportunity to change this situation she continued to help progress her abuser’s plans.

The novel was well written and easy to follow but the internal monologue was repetitive. This made sense for the protagonist’s state of mind but there are other ways to emphasise the characters emotions without repetition. The novel was lacking tension, and I didn’t find any characters particularly likable or memorable.

Overall, I didn’t feel strongly about this book, and I will likely soon forget it.

I absolutely loved The Dance of Lies. I’m genuinely impressed that this is a debut fantasy novel, it’s such a strong start to what I hope becomes an incredible series.

Coming from a dance background myself, I found the way dance was woven into the core of the story absolutely captivating. It added a unique rhythm and beauty to the worldbuilding that really resonated with me.

The plot is packed with twists, political intrigue, tension and betrayal that had me turning pages late into the night. Vasalie was a phenomenal FMC, intelligent, resilient, and written with so much depth. I especially appreciated the thoughtful representation of chronic pain, it was refreshing and meaningful.

Illian made for a perfectly vile villain, compelling in all the worst ways. And Anton? Such a layered MMC. His complexity, combined with the sharp, witty banter between him and Vasalie, made their interactions a highlight for me.

Even the side characters felt fully realized and added richness to the story rather than fading into the background.

I’ll definitely be looking out for book two. I need more of this world

As an ex-dancer myself, I can relate to Vas and her passion for dance, and I thought the chronic illness rep was written very well. The side characters were great - I love the found family trope.

However, this book took a while for me to get into. I didn't really vibe with the tone of the writing, and I didn't really like the multiple potential love interests.

I'm intrigued enough by the ending to read book 2 when it releases, as I'm curious to know how the conflict at the end of this book will be resolved.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book!

Thank you to the author and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and provide an honest opinion on an ARC of A Dance of Lies by Brittney Arena.

Unfortunately, this book didn't resonate with me. I found it very slow in the beginning and for me I like a little more excitement to get me hooked in a story. I appreciate the world building and character building however for me it was too much.

I loved the writing style of Brittany though even though I thought there was a lot of world building I loved that in the dance scenes in particular you were painted a really beautiful/ poetic picture of the routines. .

I also really liked our FMC, Vasalie. She is strong and determined and very brave.

“Why do you dance?” … “because there is power in it” -Power in commanding the attention of my audience, a power I lack in every other area of my life.

I’m so conflicted with this review, the world building was EXTRAORDINARY however I had zero emotional connection to the characters, the love triangle/square didn’t sizzle and the motives linked with the plot fell flat.

I absolutely loved the representation of chronic illness/pain!

“I’m proud of surviving, of persisting, despite my pain.”

This book will be for you if you love:
💃 Court politics
💃 Vibrant world building
💃 Undercover spy
💃 Blackmail, lies & betrayal
💃 Love triangle/square with low spice
💃 Chronic illness representation

Thank you NetGalley for providing me with the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

**This book has been hinted to be included in an upcoming special edition book box**

This book honestly started off really well, with some interesting world-building and a female protagonist (Vasalie) living with a disability. After being kept captive for a number of years by a King, who she used to call a friend.

The journey follows Vasalie as she attempts to gain her freedom.

As a dancer, I really enjoyed the moments of the story focused on dance, movement, and spectacle. This was a really cool way to direct storytelling and have the characters connect. I found these parts to be very imaginative and descriptive, allowing the reader to immerse themselves in these parts of the story.

Having said that, I found myself feeling like it was a bit of a challenge to get through the middle and the ending of the book. Despite having a strong beginning, I personally found the story and prose to be convoluted at times and lacking a clear direction. Sometimes, the elements of backstory, history, and geographical information were an overload; and as a fantasy reader, I don't often have this problem.

I found that the romance elements of the story could have been explored more, for example, it felt like a huge jump from Prince Anton being kind to Vasalie, to them quickly falling in love. Some character development would have been helpful here. I also found that while Vasalie was quite well developed, some of the other characters felt quite surface level and lacked depth.

This book felt as times like the romance was driving the story, which makes me feel that 'romantasy' is a better description rather than fantasy. I do feel that while the romance was the driver, it didn't feel swoon-worthy or atmospheric; despite having multiple love interests. I do feel the author has a lot of potential and some excellent writing skills, but unfortunately, this book just wasn't for me

'Ah, but hate and love are two sides of the same blade.'

I devoured the final 50% of this in one sitting. I couldn’t put it down. While it took me a while to get into, I was eventually sucked so far in to this tale of betrayal, lies, deceit, slow burn romance, cocky Kings and downright ruthlessness, that there was no chance of escape.

I have a particular love for books that hook me in the final chapters. I feel the hallmark of a good writer is one that dangles a thread so intriguing you end up ensnared. The momentum build was deliciously slow and downright rewarding.

The story follows Vasalie, a dancer of King Illian’s court suddenly imprisoned and framed for murder. Her release and eventual freedom rests on her ability to infiltrate rival courts at the upcoming royal Gathering. There are so many power players, betrayal subplots, shocking coups and MULTIPLE love interests that the ferocity with which I read the final 50% was downright obsessive.

I also love it when I can’t tell who the definite love interest is going to be for a good half of the book. It. Keeps. Me. GUESSING.

Title: A Dance of Lies by Brittney Arena
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️

Thank you Bloomsbury ANZ, NetGalley and Brittney Arena for the chance to read and review this e-ARC.

*Thank you to NetGalley & Bloomsbury ANZ for providing a digital copy to review*

This book has Throne of Glass vibes with the FMC still struggling and living with pain as a result of her imprisonment. I loved seeing her journey in relation to her disability/chronic illness. While she mourns the body she had she learns and adapts to her new limitations as a dancer and slowly accepts and owns it.

Another series this book reminds of is the Cruel Prince. Specifically in relation to court politics. Vasalie is tasked to be a spy during a gathering of the all the major leaders in this world and there is shady dealings galore. I really loved this aspect and how the details slowly unravel.

There are three men that Vasalie has complicated relationships with. King Illian was once someone she cherished but after framing her for murder she is forced to work for him. As I was reading I kept feeling that there was more to him and what he did and the book did answer some of it. I still have that feeling that he has other motives so if there’s another book hopefully we’ll learn more.

I definitely had a soft spot for Anton. He has a facade that he presents to the world but of course there is more to him that just made me like him more. Was definitely more invested in his & Vasalie’s relationship that the other guy she was involved with.

The ending of the book gave the vibe that there’s a second book coming, so hopefully that happens!

This is an incredible book for a debut author. I was swept away into a world of mystery, heartache, betrayal, secrets and beauty. The writing is so vivid and lush, the way the dancing is described had me feeling like I was sitting in the audience and observing the spectacle. This book really picks up around the middle and I was on the edge of my seat, completely hooked and enthralled by the twists and turns.

There is a love triangle of sorts, and a host of loveable side characters. I really enjoyed the banter of one said love interest, he had me chuckling with his quick wit and sassy comebacks. The tension and yearning was enjoyable, and you really don’t know who the main love interest until later, which I liked.

What I really loved about this book is the character growth of the FMC Vasalie. Imprisoned for 2 years, she emerges from her cage a broken woman in both body and spirit. She not only struggles mentally, but physically with the tasks ahead of her. As the story unfolds you see her resilience and strength shine through when she has to make impossible choices and fight back against those who wish to imprison and control her.

The ending was a wild ride and has really set up book two to answer some questions it left! I was slightly confused by some of the ending, but I look forward to continuing this story because I must know what happens! Overall I really enjoyed this debut, the writing was amazing, the characters loveable and hateable, the world was beautifully detailed and the court politics were intriguing.


Tropes:
Court intrigue
Love triangle
Terribly behaved royals
Rival Kings
Disability rep
Dancing

In theory this book should have been good however it feels very mid. the storyline has a good general outline however it just didn't land, the writing wasn't very captivating or hooking. the main character vasilie's love interests weren't the best with her chasing a man who has no interest in her. however the ending and plot twist were very well done, i just struggled with the rest of the book, it was definitely very political and if you are looking for a romantasy with lots of action and fighting this isnt the one for you.

Thank you Bloomsbury for allowing me to ARC read this!

A romantasy novel with political intrigue, a FMC who learning things about herself and more! Omg it had me hooked from the very first chapter, the world building the writing was addictive and descriptive so it was easy to imagine the world and the characters!

That ending had me hooked and I cannot wait for book 2. I need answers asap!

Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury ANZ for the chance to read an E-ARC of A dance of lies.

A dance of lies starts with our FMC Vasalie who once the kings jewel was betrayed and framed for murder leading to her imprisonment of the last two years. Vasalie has a chance at freedom if she works as a spy for the very king who betrayed her.

This story was so whimsical and bittersweet and I absolutely adored the characters. At times I wasn’t sure who the love interest was and it kept me on my toes turning the pages.

The most refreshing part of this story is Vasalie’s struggles with her health, Brittney Arena did such an amazing job showcasing vasalie’s strengths, perseverance and character growth throughout this story.

After that ending I can’t wait to read the next book and I’m excited about where the story is going!

Unfortunately I was unable to finish this book. I really tried to enjoy it because the synopsis sounded interesting and the writing had so much potential for me but nothing was able to hook me into the story and keep me there. It unfortunately just fell flat for me. From the plot to the characters themselves there was nothing which was able to keep me engaged with the story.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury for the ARC!

A Dance of Lies completely took me by surprise, not because I didn’t expect it to be good, but because it was so boldly different from anything I’ve read before. This is a fresh, immersive fantasy that pulls you in from the first chapter and refuses to let go.

The story follows Vasalie, a once revered dancer who’s been imprisoned for two years after being framed for murder. When she’s suddenly offered a chance at exoneration in exchange for becoming a spy for king Illian, she’s thrust into a world of dangerous secrets, prophecies, court politics and fractured loyalties. The premise alone is gripping, but it’s the execution that truly shines. The glittering seaside courts are brought to life with such vivid detail, they quickly became a new favorite setting of mine. Vasalie is one of the most compelling FMC I’ve read about in a long time. She’s tough, guarded and undeniably shaped by her pain, but never broken. Once the king’s prized performer, her time in prison has left permanent physical damage and she can no longer dance as she once did. Her disability is not a footnote, but it’s woven into the book with care. It’s never portrayed as a weakness or something to be overcome but instead, it’s honest, empowering and deeply authentic.

The supporting characters are equally well written, you have royal siblings, morally gray agendas and a perfectly simmering slow-burn romance that adds just the right amount of tension without overshadowing the plot. Every character feels like they have their own secrets and stakes, which makes the world feel truly alive and dangerous. The banter and slow burn tension between Vasalie and Anton was everything. At the same time, her complex dynamic with Copelan added another layer of intrigue, making me genuinely unsure who to root for. Obviously by the end of the book, it’s clear who you should side with, but I’ll let you work that out for yourself.

I honestly can’t believe this is the authors debut, because it reads like the work of a seasoned author. If you love complex FMC’s, political intrigue, slow burn tension, high stakes, and fantasy that doesn’t shy away from pain or power, then A Dance of Lies absolutely belongs at the top of your TBR!

From the very first page, I was hooked. The writing is vivid and addictive, the world rich and layered, and the plot? Full of jaw-dropping twists that had me constantly second-guessing everything. Just when I thought I had something figured out—nope. Another twist. Another betrayal. Another reveal that left me gasping.

The tension in this book is off the charts. Every chapter felt like it was raising the stakes, pulling the characters—and me—deeper into the danger and deception. I was glued to the pages.

The characters are SO well written. Whether I loved them, hated them, or couldn’t quite figure them out, I felt something for all of them. Vasalie is a powerhouse—resilient, clever, and constantly torn between survival and trust. And Anton?? Don’t even get me started. The banter between him and Vasalie was perfection—sharp, teasing, loaded with subtext, and just the right amount of tension to make every scene between them sizzle.

AND THAT ENDING?? I’m still not over it. My jaw actually dropped. I need the next book like yesterday. How am I supposed to move on after that??

If you love morally gray characters, high-stakes court intrigue, slow-burn tension, sharp banter, and plots that will absolutely wreck you—read this book immediately. Brittney Arena, you’ve officially gained a lifelong reader.

This story was full of twists and turns - I honestly couldn’t predict how it would finish and my godddddd it did not disappoint.

This romantasy had so many beautiful facets throughout the storyline - combining intricately woven political intrigue, high stakes and romance.

Just. Wow. 🤯🤯🤯

You’ll love this read if you enjoy;
🩰 political intrigue
👑 different courts
🩰 loveable side-characters
👑 romantasy
🩰 mischevious green eyed Kings
👑 an FMC who is learning to accept herself

Book 2 CANNOT come soon enough - your gal needs ANSWERS!!

Thank you so so much to Bloomsbury Publishing for this ARC - you guys truly know how to keep a girl on her toes (cue dancing puns hehe). Thank you so so much - I cannot WAIT for the bookish community to experience ‘A Dance of Lies’ 💎