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The Truth in Lies Saga #3

The Truth Be Told

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From the moment Andrew Wise and McKenzie Evans first met, they tried to fight the magnetism that pulled them together. No matter how hard they struggled with their feelings, their love was a force so strong that neither of them could deny it.

The news of Olivia Hamilton’s pregnancy, and the understanding that Drew is the father, led McKenzie to flee with the hope of rectifying her secret betrayal of falling in love with her best friend’s boyfriend. However, when Drew showed up and declared his undying love for her, McKenzie could no longer deny the truth. She and Drew were destined for each other.

McKenzie now has no choice but to face Olivia in order for her and Drew to move on with their lives together. Secrets and lies may have kept them apart, but now, in the light of the truth, their legacy shines as pure as their love.

For as long as Drew can remember, there has always been tension between him and his father, Jonathan. This time is proving no different. Since sharing the truth of his past with McKenzie, Drew is emboldened by her unwavering love and acceptance of the man he is. He’ll do anything necessary to protect the woman he loves and the life he’s come to understand she deserves. With Jonathan and Olivia teamed together to rip them apart, Drew and McKenzie, along with the aid of some unexpected allies, must join forces to overcome the obstacles that will inevitably come their way.

In this much anticipated final installment of The Truth in Lies Saga, Drew and McKenzie will unite together to conquer the past, face the future, and uncover the truth in lies that threaten to destroy them. Love brought them together and love will set them free.

First published May 18, 2015

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About the author

Jeanne McDonald

21 books548 followers
Jeanne McDonald enjoys writing contemporary romance filled with spice, drama, and humor. She loves to explore the supernatural, relish in the world of fantasy, and dabble in the follies of the heart. As JM Dodd, she returns to the wonderment of youth and young love through the scope of Young Adult fiction.

She prides herself in being a mother, a friend, a student of knowledge and of life, a coffee addict, a philosophy novice, a pop culture connoisseur, inspired by music, encouraged by words, and a believer in humanity.

When she's not spending time with her amazing son, her dog, and her cat, she can be found reading, writing, enjoying a great film, or cooking for friends. In her house, there’s always music or a podcast playing.

A proud Texan, Jeanne currently resides in the Dallas/Fort Worth area with her family.

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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
Profile Image for Mary Devereaux.
124 reviews4 followers
May 7, 2015
**received an advanced readers copy**

The third book in the trilogy is the perfect wrap up to McKenzie and Drew's story. We get to see where Drew comes from, and we get a better understanding of the truly messed up home he grew up in. Mickie once again proved she has a heart of gold - and that she's loyal, nearly to a fault.
Baby Mamma (aka:Olivia) is back with a vengeance and trying to worm her way into Drew's family. She's only a supporting character, but she still likes to cause trouble and stir the pot; but in the end she's finally put in her place. (No spoilers-you have to read it for yourself!)
We're introduced to Andie, Drew's twin sister. She's outlandish, wild, and spunky... And is rivaled only by Ethan, Drew's over the top administrative assistant.
The wedding is on, the players are in place, and we only have to sit back and 'watch' as the truth finally comes barreling forward, taking no prisoners.
Drew and McKenzie are finally set free in the truth, and it's a beautiful thing.


Profile Image for Susan.
987 reviews11 followers
June 21, 2019
This series got better with each book. I appreciated the dual points of view, which allowed us to understand what Drew and McKenzie were thinking and feeling. I’m glad that they were able to find their HEA. I’m especially glad that Olivia was seen for who she was. The story felt complete by the end of the epilogue,

I would definitely recommend this series!
May 24, 2015
Can I just say that absolutely loved the dual point of views from Mickie and Drew. It was just what we needed to feel all of the emotions. Author Jeanne McDonald did an amazing job at knowing what chapters we needed to see through Mickie’s eyes and what chapter we needed to view through Drew’s.

This story pulled so many emotions from me as devoured it in one sitting. One minute I was in stitches laughing, the next I was sniffling at something Mickie and Drew where going through. Jeanne knows exactly how to suck her readers into the story and have them feeling the emotions of her character’s as you read.

Both Mickie and Drew grew throughout this book. Watching their love conquer obstacle after obstacle warmed my heart. They had both been through so much together before this book even started. I was nervous for them as they met Olivia and Jonathan head on.

The opening of this story with Drew, Jared, Gavin and Mickie had me in stitches. I loved how Jeanne opened this book so much fun and laughter. she did a great job at balancing out the drama with some great one liners.

“Now, McKenzie, wouldn’t you be more concerned if I didn’t make fun of whore-livia?” Jared jested.


I must say that over half this book, I wanted to hop into this story and throttle Olivia! That woman had me fuming at the way she treated Mickie. I swear that woman was is the spawn of Satan. Then again, I think she is more of Jonathan's child than Drew, Andie, and Gavin.

In this book Mickie has to learn to accept her place by Drew and not let Olivia and Jonathan push her away. She had to learn to let her love for Drew lead her and not let anyone push her away. The way Mickie calmed Drew throughout the story had me smiling. The pain that Drew felt in this book had my heart breaking for him.

I will say there is one chapter in this book that had me snot sobbing. I will not give the chapter away. Just know that Kleenex will be need before chapter 10. It is such a beautiful and pivotal chapter in this story.

One of my favorite scenes in this story was right before the wedding when Drew and Gavin are talking with their mother Kat.

Mother smacked his knee. “Behave. And to answer your question, I gave her Great Great Aunt Ruth’s diamond choker.” A twisted little smirk curled Mother’s lips. “Though, I guess if she wanted, she could give it to Jared as a collar.” Mirrored expressions of ghastliness, Gavin and I screeched in unison, “Mom!”


That scene right there had me grinning like a loon. The way Kat interacted with her boys was fantastic. Plus the fact that she had her boys squealing like little kids not wanting to hear anymore was great. Here they are trying to get to her and she turns the tables on her boys.

When this story comes to a head. Be prepared for fireworks. My jaw was hanging open at the web Jeanne dropped us all into. Bravo Jeanne! Bravo!

The ending scene of this story is nothing less than priceless. It leaves us laughing and feeling all warm and fuzzy as she wraps up the saga on such a great note. (Though secretly I am praying we get a novella or something later on down the road. shhh..)

One last favorite for you to read. Man that Drew can make a girls heart flutter!

I love you so much,” he breathed against my lips. Hearing those words set my soul on fire. I needed him. Wanted him. Just knowing he felt as I did was more than I could bear. I let out a quiet moan, my eyes fluttering closed, allowing this moment to linger inside me.





Profile Image for Terri.
21 reviews2 followers
May 18, 2015
WORTH THE WAIT!!

This is the third and final book for McKenzie (Mickie) and Andrew (Drew). And what a sweet, loving and awesome ending. Some spoils to the story may follow! There was a bit of everything in this book; humor within the first few pages of the story, eventual tears, frustration, hurt and LOTS of Anger!!! Oh yeah, and the resounding SLAP that will heard and felt for a long time!!

I will say, I did not want to start this book, since I knew it was the end for all these characters. I will miss them, their humor and yes even Mickie’s naiveté. And I was right, once I started this book, I just could not put it down, and finished it within one day. It is sad to see them go, but I look forward to more books from Jeanne McDonald. Although, Mickie’s gullibility did drive me nuts at times, and some may say it couldn't be real, I have known people in real life just like her! But oh boy, when she “woke up” and realized the truth……..it was definitely worth it!

I was glad to see, my favorite supporting characters make their appearance again, just enough to make me laugh and happy to know at least one ended where I wanted him to!

Her support for Drew as he confronted his father and his guilt/anger over his daughter’s death was wonderful to see. She handled that “meeting” with his daughter with great insight. It was nice to see her also stand by his side during Drew’s battles with his dad, even if she did not say much to Jonathan, and did let him get into her head once or twice….but she more than made up for it….did not truly run away this time and stayed to fight. Her wanting to remain and feel guilty for Olivia was sometimes hard to handle, I so just wanted to her to tell Olivia….”deal with your own cravings!” Olivia played those guilt feelings to the max, but YES!!!, she got her own eventually!

It was also nice that when faced with the truth, Mickie rose up and dealt with it as she should have, and not run like she did in the second book (end of 1st book). I am sure some will not appreciate how Mickie confronted Olivia, but if you are a true fan of these characters, she deserved to handle it the way she did. I am also glad she did not dwell on how she was so gullible and went on with life with Drew as she should have…………happily ever after!

There were some hints as to where this would end up, and the biggest one was Drew not having any “connection” with the baby. There was also hints of his insecurity about this lack of connection….which shows what a great dad he could be!

It was a great story, and as sad as I am to see these characters leave us, I look forward to more books by Jeanne McDonald. She has grown so much throughout her books, and I continue to see growth! She keeps us riveted and constantly coming back…as she did with these three books! Great ending!
Profile Image for Hana.
53 reviews2 followers
June 8, 2015

loved this series. loved the book covers and the book titles! loved the characters (well... most of them), loved the story & plot twists. loved the way this taboo romance was described, the bond between the two main characters was obvious & palpable to the reader. loved the anticipation of romance & loved reading about the building and development of their friendship & later... romantic relationship. i FELT the chemistry between the characters & was left thinking "...these two really are fantastic together" & not many books do that for me so that is fantastic. i loved the writing style and dual POVs.

HOWEVER... i do have some complaints.

ANDIE. jesus, she was annoying. i don't even know WHY & it's so weird but... i guess my mind had decided to hate on her the moment she was introduced to me... i tried to like her but...



OLIVIA... i hate her. and i really don't want to hate her. and it bothers me that i hate her. i think the portrayal of Olivia was just... too much at times. i was left feeling like she was way too demonized and there were some moments that i felt were totally unnecessary.

i'm a reader who loves taboo & i don't mind cheating. i don't mind bad things happening to good people who didn't deserve to be hurt and like Clint says in Unforgiven... "deserves got nothing to do with it!"



(this was really just an excuse to post Clint's picture and bless the reader of this review with his fabulousness.)



anyway. i recommend this series. loved reading it, the romance in it is AMAZING and i will most definitely check out this author's other work & keep her in my mind for her future projects.
Profile Image for Tara Marie.
484 reviews17 followers
May 18, 2015
Have you ever had a series that you felt in your soul? One that made you feel every emotion that the characters felt. This series, The Truth in Lies, was a big one for me. I felt every emotion that Mckenzie and Andrew felt as they began and followed their path toward each other. Pain and agony were main players in the emotion column for both of them especially as they found their way with out each other.
The Truth Be Told was an amazing way to end a series, Jeanne did the characters complete justice with this one and I left this series of course wanting more but never needing answers, just more of Mickey and Andy. This emotional journey brought them closer and closure as well, from the very beginning I was skeptical of would this be an "I so called that ending" kind of book but by god Jeanne didn't make me feel that at all. The twist that threw me happened in the very last few chapters, when it all comes out was amazing.
Watching Andrew and McKenzie grow back together and watching them fight for a love they knew was real was amazing to read and watch unfold in my head.
I will honestly read anything Jeanne because whether it's erotica or contemporary it is one of the best things I read. This series started my love for her and if you haven't read it already you need to do it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Natasha Carrere.
258 reviews15 followers
May 10, 2015
The conclusion to The Truth in Lies series did not disappoint! This story picks up where book 2: The Certainty of Deception, left off with Drew and Mackenzie on the plane flying to Gavin & Morgan's wedding. Mackenzie makes the huge decision to face her best friend Olivia who is pregnant and claims the baby is Drew's; along with facing Drew's father who is unpleasant.

Wonderful conclusion with a twist I didn't see coming! The love that Drew and Mack have for each other is a special type of love that is strong and shows it will withstand time. The author wrote this story with love, heartache and passion.
★He leaned in and whispered tenderly in my ear, “Welcome to my home, Baby.” I turned my head to find the most amazing man staring back at me. His eyes were filled with so much love that it took my breath away. He cupped my face in his hands and kissed me.★

If your looking for a story that has a best friend that is on another level of bitchy; another bestie that has caught feelings and a dominant boyfriend that loves you to pieces well you will find it all in this book and the first two in this series.
- Read Review Repeat
Profile Image for J.R..
Author 9 books415 followers
April 27, 2017
What a sweet, sweet way to end (begin) Drew and McKenzie’s story.

First of all, this is my favorite cover of the three. I like how the sun is shining in the background as a symbol of, hey, we made to daylight! WOOHOO! Secondly, the way McKenzie handled herself throughout this entire series but mostly here, in the third installment, makes my heart happy. This girl is a strong, loves you with all her heart, despite you faults, kind of girl and I admire that. Third? Drew is simply put, awesome, and the back story we learned about him in this installment cinched my adoration for him. Loved the side characters throughout this series, too. they made great additions / distractions / laughable moments. And yes, even OLIVIA. Well, loved to hate her anyway. I can’t help but feel sorry for people like her though, on some level. Enough about her. I’m still smiling for this couple that I’ve been rooting for since page one of book one.

Great ending Ms. McDonald. Great story altogether. Thank you.
Profile Image for Sheryl.
2,016 reviews20 followers
May 18, 2015
I was given a complimentary copy for an honest review by author Jeanne McDonald. This is book 3 of The Truth in Lies Saga by the author.

Andrew and McKenzie are gearing up for his brothers wedding but Olivia is making things more difficult for them and she keeps throwing her being pregnant by Drew in their faces. Drew and his father have never really gotten along since he was little but now his father is causing more animosity for Drew and McKenzie is caught in the middle. Things come to a surprising head when deep secrets come out and the shocking results stun everyone involved.

This story characters work so well together and you can even feel the tension between a few of them. The author has a very good flow in the story which I just love.

This is a book for any romance reader and a great addition to your library. This is book 3 and the books should be read in order.
Profile Image for Heather.
1,516 reviews53 followers
May 23, 2015
I'm completely torn with this one. Not torn because of it's content or it's quality but because it's the end of McKenzie & Drew's tale. As with the other installments in the series, Truth is beautifully written and the author has once again captured the reader's heart with her words. Not only is this a tale of love but also friendships, good and bad, and how those friendships can make us better even if some of those "friends" intent is not for the better. If you haven't been reading this series either because you were waiting for it to be complete or because you just hadn't found it before, well now is the perfect time to get started. Trust me, if you like romance and good storytelling, then this is definitely one you need to check out, you will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Erica.
1,311 reviews30 followers
May 24, 2015
The finale to the Truth in Lies saga was well worth the wait!!
I hate that Drew & Mckenzie's story is over but at the same time I'm thrilled that certain people's true nature came to light for everyone.
Drew and Mickie's story has been one of my favorites, their relationship has been hard fought for and in the end worth every second of fighting to get where they are.
Mickie was the last to realize just how destructive Oliva's treatment of her was but thankfully she eventually saw the her for the self centered, hateful, conniving, deceitful, demeaning skank that she is. Okay so I harbor a bit of anger towards whorelivia, I'm sure it will pass eventually!!
The perfect finale to an amazing series, I'm sad to see it's over but happy with how it turned out.
Profile Image for Rosie AvidReader.
136 reviews24 followers
May 19, 2015
**I received this book as an ARC for an honest review from my blog Two Feisty Angels and a Devil***
This is the third book in the series. You need to read the other two books in the series.
I loved this story. Bitchy best friend who won’t let go of the man that you love. Yeah that is her. Drew and Mack are trying to get the HEA. But Olivia just won’t go away. Then with Drew’s father also looking down on them, it makes things harder. But Mack and Drew push through. I loved the scenes with Drew and the baby. The story is so well written and there were so many touching moments that I would highly recommend reading this entire series.
Profile Image for Mary Devereaux.
124 reviews4 followers
May 21, 2015
Once again, Ms. McDonald wraps us up in the perfect tale. Mickie and Drew are finally together, though attempting to keep it under wraps until after Gavin and Morgan's wedding. Nice try, guys. It doesn't quite work out, but let's face it, we all want to see them sucking face in front of Olivia while giving her the middle finger.

Family drama among the Wise clan is at an all time high, but rather than getting sucked in, we see Drew rise above it all. Mickie is his ever present silent rock, his anchor, and his angel.


In the end, all bets are off, all truths are revealed, and good will win the game.
Profile Image for The Magic of Books Blog.
285 reviews14 followers
May 19, 2015
This has truly been a brilliant series and I have loved reading this story. McKenzie and Drew’s relationship has had so many ups and downs, I wasn’t quite sure how there story was going to end. I was really excited to read it and I was so excited to find out what was going to happen next. I hated Olivia. I tried to like her but she was also so maliputive and the way she treated McKenzie was awful and she is exactly the same in this book. Lots of twists and turns and there was one moment that I never saw coming but it made a lot of sense.
Fantastic read and one to definitely one click!
Profile Image for LostInPA.
91 reviews2 followers
May 18, 2015
I loved the first two books of this series and the third, The Truth Be Told did not disappoint in any way! Perfect ending to a great series. We see more of Drew's family and in the process, learn more about him, there is a super twist that I totally didn't see coming, which is unusual because most books you read, you aren't really surprised.

I highly recommend this book and the entire series!

*received an ARC for an honest review
Profile Image for Kristy.
19 reviews
May 22, 2015
The ending to this Saga was ABSOLUTELY PURE Perfection. I was on the edge of my seat waiting for the explosion to happen with Whore-livia, I couldn't wait for it to happen and when it did..... I LOVED EVERY SECOND OF IT. McKenzie is such an amazing character, I just love every piece of her. Amazing job Jeanne!
Profile Image for Amber Martin.
309 reviews
December 28, 2015
Ahhhhhh the whole book was perfection!!!! I loved how everything came together. There was no wondering at the end what happened to who and how. It told of what happened to every character in the book. I was sad to finish it but was a wonderful story line beginning to end!!! Great job Jeanne!!!! I love ALL your books!!!!
Profile Image for Percontation Points.
223 reviews6 followers
March 31, 2022
I'll save everybody the tediousness of reading like 150 pages of literally no plot and just tell you straight up: Olivia's baby daddy was McKenzie's ex-boyfriend, Nate. Once he found out, he filed for full custody and won. McKenzie and Drew get married, and have three kids. Jared hooks up with Drew's twin sister.

You're welcome.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Martyk.
290 reviews1 follower
May 12, 2015
I absolutely loved this series and this is the perfect ending!!! I read the first two books not realizing that there was a third book not out yet. I hate waiting BUT this was so worth the wait! If you loved the first two books you will not be disappointed with this one!!
Profile Image for Desiree.
75 reviews5 followers
May 19, 2015
Did not disappoint. I loved the way things worked out for them and Nate as well. I didn't expect that. Mickie was a bit annoying by letting Liv walk all over her. I just wanted her to stick up for herself a bit more. but hey I get it.
Profile Image for Melissa Herrmann.
19 reviews1 follower
May 24, 2015
OMG! This book was so good! I loved everything about it! It made me laugh, it made me cry (on more than one occasion), and it was just all around amazing! Read it!!!
Profile Image for Angelina.
743 reviews
May 20, 2017
Destined To Be Together - Finally Together

Book 3 - We get to finally meet Drew's sister, Andi, who we've either heard about or Drew's spoken to on the phone. I wanted to see how she interacted with both Drew and Gavin who are close and also have a friendship rather than being just brothers. Andi is also very much part of the friendship and close to both but is obviously a little closer to Drew. I'm so glad that she gets with Jared who deserves to be with someone who can return his feelings. We still don't learn much about Morgan who marries Gavin but what we do learn, shows her support for Mackenzie and Drew. Olivia still continues to try causing trouble and has the support of Drew's father who only cares about what he thinks is right and that Olivia has more to socially offer as the perfect wife for Drew. Then Olivia finally admits she knows about Mackenzie and Drew but as usual, tries to use it to her advantage and play on Mackenzie's loyalty. Olivia's game playing and need for control continues, and Mackenzie again puts Olivia before Drew. I just couldn't wait for Mackenzie to wise up about Olivia and was so happy when it finally happened. I do think Mackenzie was too forgiving of Nate for everything he'd done even though he finally speaks up and apologises. Mackenzie and Drew are finally able to move on with their lives together and have the HEA that's taken a while to come. In fact, everyone seems to get their HEA in one way or another.

This is a fab saga and whilst I was initially disappointed with the lack of steamy sex scenes I've become accustomed to, I actually found it refreshing and still really enjoyed each book. I recommend this saga to anyone who wants a love story that they can get their teeth into and want to feel a whole range of emotions from hate (for Olivia) to hope (for Drew) to heartbreak (for Mackenzie) to admiration (for Jared) to a whole lot more (for Gavin, Granny, Nate etc etc etc)
Profile Image for Patty Presley.
224 reviews13 followers
November 5, 2020
This is the final book in McKenzie and Drew's story.
Everything starts with their trip to Boston for Drew's brothers wedding. We meet Drew and Gavin's parents and their father is a jerk. Lots of drama...between Drew, his father and all the other major players. Finally Olivia gets exposed for the nasty piece of work she is. After everything, we see have wonderful hea. Love this whole series.

Would I recommend? Yes
WOULD I reread? Yes
Book Hangover? A little
Series or Stand-alone? Series
Profile Image for A.T. Hills.
Author 4 books10 followers
July 28, 2017
I really haven't been as engrossed in a series as I have like this one for a good while. Nothing more to say than I loved the characters, especially granny! The story line kept me interested and I really just couldn't put all three books down.
Profile Image for Stephanie Daley.
269 reviews29 followers
April 4, 2016
Awesome!

I loved how the author put dual POP's for the final installment in this saga. There is so many plot twist and turns in this one, really good! Amazing Read..I still hate Olivia...
1 review1 follower
April 7, 2016
This was a perfect ending to a beautiful story with all its ups and downs. Loved it!
Profile Image for Carol Kidd.
427 reviews2 followers
June 24, 2017
Wow

This book was amazing. I was so glad when everything came together. The characters in this book you couldn't help for falling in love with them.
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