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Darwin's Theory #2
Secrets
After years of watching and never touching, Peter Forbes is finally mine. And I would do anything to make Pete happy, including sitting by while Georgia Tech’s Metaphysical Science Review Board strips him of his scholarship. But it doesn’t take the genius of a metaphysical scientist for me to figure out that something else is going on when Peter is handed his pink slip and kicked out of the program.
Apparently, Peter has a secret. Sweet Peter, gentle Peter, the love of my life Peter, isn’t going to be Human anymore.
And if that doesn’t take the cake, the Lesser-Bred who knows Peter’s secret and has put himself in charge of helping Pete become has decided that in order to keep people safe, to keep me safe, he needs to lock Peter away. Yeah, right. Over my mutilated, maggot-ridden body.
Apparently, Peter has a secret. Sweet Peter, gentle Peter, the love of my life Peter, isn’t going to be Human anymore.
And if that doesn’t take the cake, the Lesser-Bred who knows Peter’s secret and has put himself in charge of helping Pete become has decided that in order to keep people safe, to keep me safe, he needs to lock Peter away. Yeah, right. Over my mutilated, maggot-ridden body.
45 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 28, 2011
5 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
Adrienne Wilder
50 books1,794 followersGeorgia born and bred, I am an artist, a writer, and a general pain in the ass.
I spend most of my days working on my next book or bettering my art.
Writing is my identity and I love every minute of it. It's work, lots of work (sometimes I work 12+ hours a day and I never get a vacation) but I don't regret doing it.
I currently share my house with a myriad of dogs, a few cats, a saltwater aquarium filled with coral and fish, as well as my partner who's great at giving hugs when the day's been rough.
And of course, my editor and PA, who helps me keep life reasonably organized. At least so I won't walk out the door without wearing pants.
I spend most of my days working on my next book or bettering my art.
Writing is my identity and I love every minute of it. It's work, lots of work (sometimes I work 12+ hours a day and I never get a vacation) but I don't regret doing it.
I currently share my house with a myriad of dogs, a few cats, a saltwater aquarium filled with coral and fish, as well as my partner who's great at giving hugs when the day's been rough.
And of course, my editor and PA, who helps me keep life reasonably organized. At least so I won't walk out the door without wearing pants.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
April 29, 2011
So, after the first book I was so in Darwin's world that start this book right away... why? Simple: because of him... Darwin, the only narrator.
Some new aspect of the paranormal world will be explained. There are humans, and there are Kin or Lesser Breds, the Inhumans. I can't tell more or will spoil your fun. Darwin being the crazy and strange narrator will tell you, in his weird way, what you must know.
My only warning is: if you don't like romance don't read this story. Why? Because Darwin is in love... crazy in love... absolutely and irrevocably in love! Peter and Darwin are a couple in this book And Darwin in love is soooooooo cute [image error]. Nope, he is not an annoying feminine character, he is an amazing man, in love with another man, and is happy about it.
So yes, it's a love story... a very sweet love story, but also a terrific paranormal story because not everything is what seems, and Darwin happiness with his lover is in danger.
5 stars and I NEED to read more of this serie (yeah, not "want" but need!!! I want more!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)
Quick comment: 5 stars also to the cover art
The writer is also the artist so I just want to add also a rating to this amazing cover. I like it, and it give a great idea of how both main characters are in the writer's mind.
December 13, 2013
Holy Shitakes!
Yes…yes, YES! OMG. That was a roller coaster ride and it's only going to get more wild. Things are changing. Some major movement in D and Peter's world. Everything that was is gone and a new, dangerous future lies ahead. Needless to say, like an addict I'm itching to start the next installment. Attempting restraint, but the curiosity about the Shift is killing me.
Oh…and the action between these two is thermonuclear hot. There is some crazy closet action and wickedly postured pounding for a voyeur that scorches. Mine, mine…MINE! Back, back…BACK!
Favorite quote:
Yes…yes, YES! OMG. That was a roller coaster ride and it's only going to get more wild. Things are changing. Some major movement in D and Peter's world. Everything that was is gone and a new, dangerous future lies ahead. Needless to say, like an addict I'm itching to start the next installment. Attempting restraint, but the curiosity about the Shift is killing me.
Oh…and the action between these two is thermonuclear hot. There is some crazy closet action and wickedly postured pounding for a voyeur that scorches. Mine, mine…MINE! Back, back…BACK!
Favorite quote:
"Next to my ear he breathed, “I said, unzip your pants because if I do it, I’ll just rip them off.”
June 15, 2011
Who cannot love Darwin? He's liberated, in your face opinionated and totally devoted to Peter, the love of his life. Life gets turned upside down in this installment. Darwin is clean and will do anything to help and support Peter except lose him. His steadfast love for Peter may cost him his life but from Darwin's POV Peter is Darwin's life. There's just something about these two characters that keep me wanting more.
July 19, 2017
I started reading "Secrets" at 1 am and I could not put it down until I turned the very last (virtual) page. Extremely intense story with amazing sex scenes - and that's saying a lot, because usually I am not into them at all. Incredible writing style and even some typos here and there could not spoil it for me.
One of the best books I've recently read. 10 (ten) stars.
One of the best books I've recently read. 10 (ten) stars.
October 3, 2015
I just love this couple. This episode is where the thriller aspect really comes in. I loved it before when it was about these two and how they're dealing with everything. Now it's really getting interesting with the action and suspense.
My favorite quote from the whole series is in this one:
I'm verklempt.
My favorite quote from the whole series is in this one:
Another sigh. “You aren't mad at me for not telling you?"
I held him tighter. “Never."
"Why not?"
"No room."
Pete's head turned and he looked at me. This close our eyelashes brushed and we exchanged each other's exhale. “No room?"
"Yeah, I love you too much for anything else to fit."
I'm verklempt.
March 16, 2013
It's okay-ish, I guess. Once(/if) you get over profuse use of the word "metaphysical" (and its related derivations) and the fact Wilder pretty much redefines the English language...
Like this:
[image error]
(the one for Assembly)
Lots of window-switching between my ereader and this =_=
It's in an annoying-to-read color, though.
It's also annoying because there are a couple things I don't quite get/aren't really well-explained.
This feeding thing...is it an energy thing or a literal eating-of-body-parts thing? Cuz I feel like there are elements of both but they either use the same terms, are randomly interchanged, or viewed as a unit anyways.
But damn if Darwin isn't a powerful narrator. Chills, man. Genuine chills down my spine.
Anyways, it's interesting because I read that one other book in this 'verse...
that one with the really kind of stupid name...
To Adam with Love?
Something like that.
Anyways, I think that narrator was a dude going through his shift, so it's interesting to see it from the outside now but kind of have an idea of what's going on on the "other side."
Like this:
[image error]
(the one for Assembly)
Lots of window-switching between my ereader and this =_=
It's in an annoying-to-read color, though.
It's also annoying because there are a couple things I don't quite get/aren't really well-explained.
This feeding thing...is it an energy thing or a literal eating-of-body-parts thing? Cuz I feel like there are elements of both but they either use the same terms, are randomly interchanged, or viewed as a unit anyways.
But damn if Darwin isn't a powerful narrator. Chills, man. Genuine chills down my spine.
Anyways, it's interesting because I read that one other book in this 'verse...
that one with the really kind of stupid name...
To Adam with Love?
Something like that.
Anyways, I think that narrator was a dude going through his shift, so it's interesting to see it from the outside now but kind of have an idea of what's going on on the "other side."
October 30, 2014
I wonder if I'll ever get to see Darwin get revenge on that jock guy that posted that fake video of Peter on the internet? Doesn't look like we'll get much more from Darwin's college friends either. This second book was longer than the first but I wasn't as captivated. I guessed the secret fairly early on and I predict the same thing or something similar will happen to Darwin as well. I'm also getting tired of hearing about how perfect Peter is. Jesus!
June 6, 2017
I like so much were this is going. It was a very short story. It’s the second part of the series and I recommend to read it in the correct order to understand it better.
I didn’t liked Darwin in the first part, and the feeling is the same here. He seemed to me like he is way too immature. I could understand his attitude on a teenager, but he isn’t, so he has no redeeming elements. What I did liked about him was how truly he love Peter and how much he is willing to sacrifice for him. They were great together.
The first part of the story was what I liked the most about it. The plot was much better than the first part, and even though I’m not really into paranormal stories, It was very easy to care for the paranormal part of it. I really liked where the story is going. I already have the next instalment and will be reading as soon as possible.
I didn’t liked Darwin in the first part, and the feeling is the same here. He seemed to me like he is way too immature. I could understand his attitude on a teenager, but he isn’t, so he has no redeeming elements. What I did liked about him was how truly he love Peter and how much he is willing to sacrifice for him. They were great together.
The first part of the story was what I liked the most about it. The plot was much better than the first part, and even though I’m not really into paranormal stories, It was very easy to care for the paranormal part of it. I really liked where the story is going. I already have the next instalment and will be reading as soon as possible.
July 4, 2017
What a great story, well written and flowed along great. I have to say I loved the style of this author which pulled me into the story right from page one.
Darwin is a regular guy living in what seems like a normal world but his life is anything but normal.
There are 5 books to this series that I read within a couple of days I was so hooked. And I'm happy to see there is now a novel to follow these 5 books, which I intend to start reading right away.
Great job! Keep up the great story!
March 18, 2017
Great book.
January 21, 2013
Second books in series are often hard for me to read. Things are just getting started, frequently I'm just getting to know the characters and there are still more questions being raised than answered. That was the same here too.
It was good to get to spend time with Darwin and Peter again, but not only do I still not feel like I understand Peter, I feel like I understand Darwin less than I did at the end of book 1. I do still totally adore the two of them together, though, and can't wait to get to know them better.
Darwin's voice and his snark continue to be my favorite things in these stories.
Some favorite quotes:
I tried not to give Peter doe eyes. Really I did. I was here for moral support. But it was kind of hard not to stare at him with stars in my eyes when he held my hand.
He sat up straighter, and his hand tightened in mine. The woman’s dark eyes narrowed. Obviously, she didn’t approve of the blatant PDA. I opened my grip to let Peter know it was okay to let go, and he pulled my hand into his lap.
Peter might be humble, but that word doesn’t exist in my vocabulary so I have no problems recognizing his greatness.
Peter slumped against the wall. I caught him, and he melted against me. His breath came out, and his entire body shook from anger, sorrow ... definitely sorrow. Then a sob, a real—from the toes, maybe even from the soul—sob burst out of his chest.
And since it’s no big secret that I’ve been in love with Peter Forbes since the fifth grade, hurting him was a surefire stake to the middle of my little black heart.
‘Cause as long as he was under their thumb, Peter couldn’t be happy. Simply because he couldn’t be Peter.
“You aren’t mad at me for not telling you?”
I held him tighter. “Never.”
“Why not?”
“No room.”
Pete’s head turned and he looked at me. This close our eyelashes brushed and we
exchanged each other’s exhale. “No room?”
“Yeah, I love you too much for anything else to fit.”
It was good to get to spend time with Darwin and Peter again, but not only do I still not feel like I understand Peter, I feel like I understand Darwin less than I did at the end of book 1. I do still totally adore the two of them together, though, and can't wait to get to know them better.
Darwin's voice and his snark continue to be my favorite things in these stories.
Some favorite quotes:
I tried not to give Peter doe eyes. Really I did. I was here for moral support. But it was kind of hard not to stare at him with stars in my eyes when he held my hand.
He sat up straighter, and his hand tightened in mine. The woman’s dark eyes narrowed. Obviously, she didn’t approve of the blatant PDA. I opened my grip to let Peter know it was okay to let go, and he pulled my hand into his lap.
Peter might be humble, but that word doesn’t exist in my vocabulary so I have no problems recognizing his greatness.
Peter slumped against the wall. I caught him, and he melted against me. His breath came out, and his entire body shook from anger, sorrow ... definitely sorrow. Then a sob, a real—from the toes, maybe even from the soul—sob burst out of his chest.
And since it’s no big secret that I’ve been in love with Peter Forbes since the fifth grade, hurting him was a surefire stake to the middle of my little black heart.
‘Cause as long as he was under their thumb, Peter couldn’t be happy. Simply because he couldn’t be Peter.
“You aren’t mad at me for not telling you?”
I held him tighter. “Never.”
“Why not?”
“No room.”
Pete’s head turned and he looked at me. This close our eyelashes brushed and we
exchanged each other’s exhale. “No room?”
“Yeah, I love you too much for anything else to fit.”
July 7, 2011
Secrets picks up where Pain left off. I would not read this without having read it predecessor, too many things would just not make sense. Also just my opinion, but it’s a great book that you should read if you like a dark fantasy with a great love story between two guys. Mark Tolbert kept his promise and sent the video of the non-Peter everywhere he possibly could. The repercussions are applauding, but the readers learn that there is a lot more going on than unbecoming behavior. Peter is keeping secrets, a few too many of them actually. As some of the secrets are revealed the readers get to see that Darwin loves Peter to the point that he does not let any of the secrets affect his feelings towards their relationship. Darwin’s life has definitely improved since the readers first meet him. Not only are him and Pete a holding hands in public couple, but Darwin has quit all of his bad habits. As a couple they have a very strong but very new relationship. They are handling the problems magnificently as they come their way.
I love Darwin. I love his voice. He has this attitude about the world that makes no sense at all, but works for him. Darwin and Peter, that’s the world. No one else is needed. As long as the two of them have each other all will be well in that world. As with everything I have read by this author this book is fast paced and intense. I was sucked into this world from the first sentence of the first book. I read a ton of books, a wide variety of books, and this is my absolute favorite world. I’m at a point where I’ve read about the City of Dragons from quite a few different viewpoints and I love every single one of them.
Be sure to check out Adrienne Wilder’s website. She is her own cover artist and she has a plethora of incredible character art there. This is a very talented lady on multiple fronts.
***male and male sexual intercourse***
I love Darwin. I love his voice. He has this attitude about the world that makes no sense at all, but works for him. Darwin and Peter, that’s the world. No one else is needed. As long as the two of them have each other all will be well in that world. As with everything I have read by this author this book is fast paced and intense. I was sucked into this world from the first sentence of the first book. I read a ton of books, a wide variety of books, and this is my absolute favorite world. I’m at a point where I’ve read about the City of Dragons from quite a few different viewpoints and I love every single one of them.
Be sure to check out Adrienne Wilder’s website. She is her own cover artist and she has a plethora of incredible character art there. This is a very talented lady on multiple fronts.
***male and male sexual intercourse***
August 14, 2011
This second book of the series turned out to be just as engaging as the first book. Darwin takes center stage once again and doesn’t miss a beat with his witticisms. I love listening to his internal dialogue – it’s just so easy to appreciate his character. And Darwin is so completely head over heels for Peter that he would go to any lengths to help/protect him – even disregard his own safety. Peter has become as essential to Darwin as the air he breathes.
As a bit more of the paranormal world in which Peter and Darwin exist gets revealed in this second book, I did find it completely intriguing but just a little challenging to follow. The story has enough detail to really capture your attention, but not enough to totally explain what’s happening. A definite air of mystery still exists and I’m looking forward to more of the puzzle pieces as the series continues. I would definitely recommend reading each of the books back to back (or with little time gap). I waited almost four months between the first book and this one, and it took me a bit to gain back the relevant details. Since each story is relatively short, it makes sense that the author doesn’t waste time backtracking in each book; hence, the suggestion to read them closer together.
Plenty of angst and hot action can be found in the pages of this book. In fact, the “closet” scene won’t soon be forgotten!!! ;) Loved this one and looking forward to continuing with the rest of the series!
As a bit more of the paranormal world in which Peter and Darwin exist gets revealed in this second book, I did find it completely intriguing but just a little challenging to follow. The story has enough detail to really capture your attention, but not enough to totally explain what’s happening. A definite air of mystery still exists and I’m looking forward to more of the puzzle pieces as the series continues. I would definitely recommend reading each of the books back to back (or with little time gap). I waited almost four months between the first book and this one, and it took me a bit to gain back the relevant details. Since each story is relatively short, it makes sense that the author doesn’t waste time backtracking in each book; hence, the suggestion to read them closer together.
Plenty of angst and hot action can be found in the pages of this book. In fact, the “closet” scene won’t soon be forgotten!!! ;) Loved this one and looking forward to continuing with the rest of the series!
September 11, 2011
My review on The Romance Reviews.
What do you do when the person you love shifts into a monster? Although, you don't know for sure he will turn into a monster. You thought you knew everything about this guy, only to find out he's been keeping a big secret from you.
Darwin, a spoiled brat, is still in love with Peter. Darwin followed Peter to college because he wanted to be near Peter. Due to a nasty prank from a jerk of a football player, Peter's scholarship is called in question. Peter is kicked out of school, but for reasons unrelated to the nasty prank. When the secret is revealed, Darwin stands by his man.
Darwin may not be the ideal son or student, but he's the friend who will have your back. His loyalty and devotion to Peter sucks me into this story. What would you do for your lover? Darwin will do anything.
This short story moved very quickly. Darwin does tend to be a bit annoying after a bit. He's quite the impulsive spoiled brat and it shows. Peter is more of an enigma and I want to learn more about him. As we learn more about the Kin and the lesser, I want to read more about it. I'm hooked. I recommend this story for those who enjoy piecing together worlds with hints of dragons and how they mingle with humans.
What do you do when the person you love shifts into a monster? Although, you don't know for sure he will turn into a monster. You thought you knew everything about this guy, only to find out he's been keeping a big secret from you.
Darwin, a spoiled brat, is still in love with Peter. Darwin followed Peter to college because he wanted to be near Peter. Due to a nasty prank from a jerk of a football player, Peter's scholarship is called in question. Peter is kicked out of school, but for reasons unrelated to the nasty prank. When the secret is revealed, Darwin stands by his man.
Darwin may not be the ideal son or student, but he's the friend who will have your back. His loyalty and devotion to Peter sucks me into this story. What would you do for your lover? Darwin will do anything.
This short story moved very quickly. Darwin does tend to be a bit annoying after a bit. He's quite the impulsive spoiled brat and it shows. Peter is more of an enigma and I want to learn more about him. As we learn more about the Kin and the lesser, I want to read more about it. I'm hooked. I recommend this story for those who enjoy piecing together worlds with hints of dragons and how they mingle with humans.
January 6, 2014
Things are getting serious. And hotter.
March 8, 2014
As in the first book I really liked Darwins way to describe incidents in his life.
Like in the former story Darwins raw language pleased my expectations.
The athmosphere wasn´t that thrilling than in the first book for me and therefor I´m giving 4 stars.
Like in the former story Darwins raw language pleased my expectations.
The athmosphere wasn´t that thrilling than in the first book for me and therefor I´m giving 4 stars.
January 3, 2012
I really loved this book. I don't read a lot of male/male because to me a lot of it doesn't ring true and lacks intensity. Adrienne wilder does both things well in spades. Her heroes are hot and voracious, her City of Dragons world is cool--complex and yet...when you come down to it...very simple. And intense!!
I also love her style of writing, very easy to read and very entertaining. A++ for the Darwin's series. Waiting for the next book...
I also love her style of writing, very easy to read and very entertaining. A++ for the Darwin's series. Waiting for the next book...
July 17, 2011
This is the second book in the series and they must be read in order.
In this installment, Peter and Darwin's love continues to bloom, but what we really begin to learn more about is the paranormal world they live in. This book is really just a teaser of what is to come. I am excited to learn more about the Kin and the Lesser Breds. Hopefully book #3 will go into much more detail about this crazy world that Pete and Darwin live in. And what is up with Pete?
In this installment, Peter and Darwin's love continues to bloom, but what we really begin to learn more about is the paranormal world they live in. This book is really just a teaser of what is to come. I am excited to learn more about the Kin and the Lesser Breds. Hopefully book #3 will go into much more detail about this crazy world that Pete and Darwin live in. And what is up with Pete?
June 7, 2011
I just love this m/m romance and I can't quite put my finger on why. I think it's Darwin's utter devotion to Peter. It is sweet and rare because one doesn't usually see that years long, singular focus of adoration depicted in other m/m fare. It's so nice to read about something that doesn't immediately bring to mind another book I've read before.
February 25, 2013
The first book was more of an intro to the world of the story and the characters, but this second one got into the plot of the story. The secrets Peter carried and what was really going on earlier really were eye-openers. What an ominous ending too. I enjoyed this book and look forward to the next installment.
March 28, 2011
A brilliant and moving follow up to Darwin's Theory; Pain. As things take a turn for the worse, things get hotter for the boys in more ways than one. I highly recommend this for readers of adult urban fantasy.
August 3, 2011
This second part of Darwin's Theory was a bit better but that's due to being continued after first part ended. The plot became a bit complicated, but it was enjoyable. I have to admit, that Darwin thinks to much.
May 25, 2011
Dude, Adrienne is a helluva an author. I love these characters and I can't wait to get into this world! Bring on the Dragons!
June 14, 2012
Very good short paranormal m/m romance in which Peter reveals a shocking secret. (Hey, cut me a break - these are going to be almost impossible not to spoiler, even in a single sentence reviewette.)
June 17, 2012
Another good book in the series
December 27, 2015
3.75 stars
June 30, 2014
I'm hooked and I have to know what is going to happen to this pair!
July 17, 2011
I love Darwin and Peter!
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews