I received a copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads 
 5 Stars 
 The Truth as He Knows It was a unique, well-written, fast-paced M/M romance that didn't rely on the usual tropes to move the story along. Jam-packed with all the darker emotions: past abuse, grief from the loss of loved ones, illness in the family, down-on-your-luck, and a stripper/porn star falling for a cop. 
 AM Arthur takes the reader on a journey, allowing you to connect with Shane a bit deeper than with Noel, and have a front-seat view into their budding relationship. The fears and hopes in their relationship feel raw and real. 
 The side cast of characters are just as endearing, particularly Tristan (Noel's endearing best friend who has short-term memory problems after a bashing), Jason (Shane's ill brother who is his rock and hero), and Gabe (Shane's porn co-star turned unexpected friend). 
 All of the conflict lies within a need for money on Shane's part, dealing with past pain on both their parts, the illness of Jason and the disability of Tristan. What I appreciated the most was that AM Arthur didn't sink to using mis-communication as a plot device. The couple grew closer by sharing secrets, not having the secrets brought to light by others to tear them apart. Even in the face of criminal acts, the cop was patient, respectful, caring and kind to Shane, and that is what made their relationship feel real. Noel was hurt, but he understood that not everything Shane did was about him, especially with a friendship/relationship so new. I appreciated how the author used conflict to bring them together instead of having outside forces tear them apart for the sake of angst. There was already enough angst and darkness packed into one book. 
 The porn scenes in the book were not used to bring unnecessary hot smexy time to the story. Many of these scenes, as well as the between the sheets action between the couple, were written off-scene, making the focus on the characters, the storyline, and the emotions it evoked. Not that the reader wasn't taken on a very hot ride. 
 Warning: have a fresh box of issues on hand, because The Truth as He Knows It is filled with the 'feels'. 
 I've already started on book 2, more than 30% into it but had to stop as I needed some sleep (pulled an all-nighter) Tristen and Gabe have very unique stories as well, and I look forward to more.