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’ 💎

This book is shaping up to be one of the fantasy reads of the year! A debut author outshines herself by outstanding world building, character development and an addicting story.

i really enjoyed this book! i don’t usually read romantasy but this blew me away.
thank you NetGallery for this arc!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5 stars

Thank you NetGalley and Bloomsbury ANZ for providing me with an e-arc of A Dance of Lies!

“I am a wildfire, and I intend to burn.”

If I didn’t have adult responsibilities, I could’ve finished this book in one sitting. I absolutely devoured this and didn’t want to put it down for a second. From the very beginning, I was entranced. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time and held my breath through so many plot twists I didn’t see coming. The amount of times I had to put this book down and wipe away tears…these characters truly burrowed their way into my heart.

This book is beautifully written. The world building in this is absolutely stunning and so unique, I kept thinking to myself I’ve never read anything quite like this. I could picture each scene so vividly in my mind, could feel the pure emotion pouring through the each page. I genuinely had my jaw on the floor throughout the entire book.

I immediately fell in love with our FMC, Vasalie—a dancer who was unjustly imprisoned and now endures chronic pain as a result. Yet, she refuses to let this stop her, finding ways to adapt to her changed body. She is resilient, strong, and powerful in her own right. As someone who deals with chronic illness, I felt I could relate so closely to Vasalie. Her character was written so well and I enjoyed seeing her come into her own throughout the book.

I felt the romance was second to the plot - the deception, court scheming and betrayal took a front seat, with romance woven intricately and effortlessly in. The slow burn was masterfully crafted, making the wait completely worthwhile. The romance felt so genuine, it was like a breath of fresh air. The banter between the characters had me kicking my feet and smiling so much my cheeks hurt. Also, some of those dance scenes?! I didn’t know I needed that in a romantasy novel until now.

The ending had me screaming, crying, gasping and crying again. I could go on and on about how much I loved this but all I will say is please do yourself a favour, and pre-order this. You won't regret it.

I would also like to mention that the cover is STUNNING and I cannot wait to get my hands on a hardback copy. (I may have pre-ordered two copies already). I will be telling EVERYONE to go ahead and pre-order this beautiful book.

A great romantasy. Different from anything I’ve read before, had me hooked very quickly. I really enjoyed the plot and the unique elements of the storyline.

This was a great read! I think this book will hit a wide range of audiences as it fits nicely within the genres of YA and fantasy adult fiction. It was a nice change of pace with the story centering around art and dancing rather than the typical violence and fighting that is popular within the fantasy genre. I do wish the characters were given more depth especially the side characters such as Copelan as they lacked a proper personality and motivation besides the main protagonist. It is definitely a book I would recommend to others and library customers and I look forward to what else Brittany Arena publishes in the future.

A Dance of Lies by Brittany Arena is a slow-burn that absolutely pays off. Once I got into the rhythm, I couldn’t put it down—court intrigue, dangerous secrets, and a love interest that made my heart race? Yes, please. Vasalie is the kind of heroine you root for—fierce, broken, and brimming with grit. And the dance between duty and desire? Chef's kiss. Perfect for fans of romantic fantasy with a sharp edge. June 3 can’t come fast enough!

Review of “A Dance of Lies” with thanks to Bloomsbury ANZ, Brittney Arena, and NetGalley for gifting me the ARC for review.

🩰Summary:
Framed for murder, court dancer, Vasalie Moran secures her freedom by agreeing to spy for the very King who imprisoned her. As she navigates her new world of betrayal, bloodshed and unlikely alliances, Vasalie finds herself forced to choose between survival, loyalty and her own humanity.

📖What to Expect:
• An absolutely gorgeous cover
• Court intrigue
• Disability rep
• Low spice / high tension
• Rivalry between brothers

✏️My Thoughts:
Buckle up, friends and don’t let first impressions deceive you! In Brittney Arena’s debut Romantasy you’ll be gently lured into Vasalie’s world before being hurtled head-first into a faced paced second act full of bloodshed, deceit and yearning. It’s a wild ride with great disability rep, and a dedication that brought tears to my eyes. Out on June 3rd 2025, I highly recommend “A Dance of Lies", particularly to fans of Bridge Kingdom and Throne of Glass.