A Dance of Lies - by Brittney Arena (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

A debut fantasy romance filled with hope after heartbreak, secrets, and betrayal, as a dancer-turned-spy must decide how far she will go to secure her freedom

My protector is gone, revealed to be a monster. But I remind myself that I am not a damsel. I'm no princess bound within a tower.

I am a shadow.

Vasalie Moran was once a dancer in King Illian's court, until he framed her for murder. Barely surviving her two years in the dungeons, she's suddenly called to face her king. He offers her a deal: become his spy at the six-week royal Gathering and he'll grant her freedom.

As Illian's orders grow bloody and dangerous, forcing her to harm and betray those around her, Vasalie discovers that the monster she serves may be aligned with a bigger monster--one far closer to home. With her world threatened, Vasalie enlists the help of Illian's brother and greatest adversary, the infamous King of the East.

As the rivalry between brothers escalates, with Vasalie caught in the middle, the horrifying truth of her past comes to light. If she wants to survive, she must decide who to trust, who to fight for, and how much of her soul she's willing to damn in the process.

Review Quotes

"Beautifully written with immersive worldbuilding, a gripping plot and heart-pounding danger around every turn, A Dance of Lies will keep readers wholly entranced from start to finish. It's a dark, opulent jewel of a debut that's sure to sparkle fiercely in the adult fantasy world. Arena crafted a well-choreographed dance of deception, where one wrong move could cost the determined Vasalie it all. This is a slow-burn romantic fantasy you don't want to miss from a wonderful new talent--I'm excited to see what comes next!"--Kerri Maniscalco, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Throne of Secrets

"A breathtaking debut! A Dance of Lies is beautifully written and filled with intrigue, with an incredible protagonist who is both vulnerable and resilient. It's romantic, heartrending, and riveting--prepare to be swept away by this captivating fantasy."--Sue Lynn Tan, USA Today bestselling author of Daughter of the Moon Goddess

"A stunningly elegant story of grit, passion, and determination that will sweep you up with its magic, keep you on your toes with twists, and leave you breathless for more . . . A glittering fantasy debut you don't want to miss!"--Kalyn Josephson, New York Times bestselling author of This Dark Descent

"Arena's A Dance of Lies is a mesmerizing debut of intricate plotlines, sizzling romance, and treacherous alliances, deftly choreographed with rich, evocative language into a tale as hauntingly exquisite as one of Vasalie's dances. A breathtaking new favorite!"--Lyra Selene, #1 Sunday Times Bestselling author of A Feather So Black

"As beautiful and sharp as the edge of shattered glass, this twisting tale of intrigue, romance, and resilience grabs you by the throat and refuses to let go."--K. M. Enright, author of Mistress of Lies

About the Author

Brittney Arena is a passionate storyteller, crafting emotional and immersive fantasy for all kinds of readers. With a background in both brand and visual design, she has always found solace in art. However, after a challenging health journey, she turned to writing, and what began as a coping mechanism evolved into a journey of exploration, allowing her to traverse new worlds from wherever she might be. When she's not penning tales, Arena spends her time bingeing K-dramas, playing with her camera, and waging war against ungodly amounts of pet hair. She currently resides in North Carolina with her husband and two pups, and she is always ready for the next adventure, whether it be on the page or in real life. A Dance of Lies is her debut novel.