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Reviewed by LiteraryLure · 31 January 2026

A Dance of Lies

Brittney Arena

A Dance of Lies Duology, book 1

Complicated wanting

“Vasalie's artistry becomes a method of survival, not merely decoration.”

📖 A Dance of Lies by Brittney Arena Rating 4.75/5

Vasalie Moran was a court dancer until King Illian framed her for murder and left her in his dungeons for two years. He later offers freedom in exchange for espionage at a six-week royal Gathering, where every task draws her deeper into a feud between powerful brothers.

Vasalie's disability and the lasting effects of imprisonment remain part of how she moves through the world. Her training as a dancer becomes a source of observation, discipline, and strategy, allowing her to survive through skill rather than sudden physical invincibility.

The political intrigue is the strongest element. Alliances keep changing, Illian's demands grow bloodier, and the King of the East complicates both Vasalie's plans and her loyalties. Romantic tension is present, but the focus stays on coercion, survival, and the recovery of agency.

The story addresses abuse, obsession, and manipulation with an adult tone. It closes with major conflicts still in progress, fitting its place as the first book in a duology.

Published by LiteraryLure.

Cards

Image supplements a book review. The image shows the book cover of "A Dance of Lies" by Brittney Arena. The cover features a stained-glass style design with intricate details including crowns, flowers, and a central figure dressed in blue. In the background, there is an ethereal, graceful dancer in a flowing dress rendered in soft, muted blue and green tones, complementing the book's title and theme.Image supplements a book review. The image shows the book cover of "A Dance of Lies" by Brittney Arena. The cover features a stained-glass style design with intricate details including crowns, flowers, and a central figure dressed in blue. In the background, there is an ethereal, graceful dancer in a flowing dress rendered in soft, muted blue and green tones, complementing the book's title and theme.

Each one carries its own alt text. Nothing is cropped to fit.

What is in it

  • Epic Fantasy
  • Political Intrigue

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