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Secret Ties #2
Two Sides of a Secret
Her family history has more thorns than roses…
Lauren Steele has always been grateful for her adoptive family’s love and support. So much so that she takes over the family floral business when her parents retire, despite her dreams of working on political campaigns. Instead of crafting clever speeches, she spends her days writing out romantic messages on behalf of her clients—a bittersweet reminder that she’s never been on the receiving end of one of these orders. She’s accepted her simple life, until the sexiest man she’s ever met walks into her shop looking for a job.
Ben Specter fixes problems for a living, and he’s been hired to investigate Lauren. His client is a wealthy, powerfully connected man running for governor, and Ben’s research unearthed a massive skeleton in the man’s closet—a secret older sister that his mother never mentioned. Getting closer to Lauren is strictly business, but the more time Ben spends with her, the more the lines between work and pleasure blur.
But when his deception is revealed, will Lauren be able to trust Ben and believe that what they shared was real?
Lauren Steele has always been grateful for her adoptive family’s love and support. So much so that she takes over the family floral business when her parents retire, despite her dreams of working on political campaigns. Instead of crafting clever speeches, she spends her days writing out romantic messages on behalf of her clients—a bittersweet reminder that she’s never been on the receiving end of one of these orders. She’s accepted her simple life, until the sexiest man she’s ever met walks into her shop looking for a job.
Ben Specter fixes problems for a living, and he’s been hired to investigate Lauren. His client is a wealthy, powerfully connected man running for governor, and Ben’s research unearthed a massive skeleton in the man’s closet—a secret older sister that his mother never mentioned. Getting closer to Lauren is strictly business, but the more time Ben spends with her, the more the lines between work and pleasure blur.
But when his deception is revealed, will Lauren be able to trust Ben and believe that what they shared was real?
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 18, 2023
76 people are currently reading
138 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Cain
14 books203 followersKelly Cain is a native Northern Californian but has spent the last couple of decades in Texas, currently residing in the live music capital of the world, Austin. Consequently, most of her books are set somewhere between those two locations.
Kelly writes multicultural romance with determined women directing their own fates, and the swoon-worthy men who adore them. She loves reading most genres but please don’t ask her to pick just one. However, she can pick her favorite book boyfriend – Will Herondale.
When she isn’t reading or writing, Kelly is most likely using a genealogy site to research her extended family, both old and new. Or cooking/baking something delightful.
She has two adult daughters, and a new granddaughter.
Be sure to follow her on BookBub at bookbub.com/authors/kelly-cain or click the big BB below.
She is represented by Amy Brewer at Metamorphosis Literary Agency.
Kelly writes multicultural romance with determined women directing their own fates, and the swoon-worthy men who adore them. She loves reading most genres but please don’t ask her to pick just one. However, she can pick her favorite book boyfriend – Will Herondale.
When she isn’t reading or writing, Kelly is most likely using a genealogy site to research her extended family, both old and new. Or cooking/baking something delightful.
She has two adult daughters, and a new granddaughter.
Be sure to follow her on BookBub at bookbub.com/authors/kelly-cain or click the big BB below.
She is represented by Amy Brewer at Metamorphosis Literary Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
August 24, 2023
4.5 stars
“The political fixer and his mark.”
Two Sides of a Secret is the standalone second book in Kelly Cain’s Secret Ties series that features adoption romances.
Lauren Steele has known she’s adopted her whole life. It’s not a secret that can be kept when you’re black and your parents are white. At an early age, Lauren and her family dealt with racism from within their families. Resulting in her parents making the decision to no longer associate with their families. Lauren knows what her parents have sacrificed for her and believes that it is her duty to repay them by taking care of them and running their beloved florist shop, even if her dream and passion lies in another field. Lauren’s parents mean the world to her, and unlike others in her adoption support group, she has no desire to search for or be reunited with the people who gave birth to her.
Ben Specter is a political fixer, tasked with investigating the background of an up-and-coming gubernatorial candidate. When it’s discovered one of the candidate's parents has a child who was given up for adoption, Ben goes to investigate the person undercover. Posing as Ben Specht, he pretends to be a local grad student and takes a job with Steele Florist as a delivery driver. Before he knows what happens, the line between work and pleasure gets blurred and the resulting fallout is more than he or Lauren could ever expect.
Two Sides of a Secret was a really good story. Honestly, I wouldn’t expect anything less from Kelly. She’s an amazing author who really knows how to draw a reader into the story. The title and book cover really fit this book perfectly. Lauren is very reserved and doesn’t seem to trust easily. But she’s someone that once she lets you into her world she gives you her whole heart, be that friendship or something more. Ben was someone I wasn’t fond of. While I understand he had a job to do, I wasn’t happy with his deceit and his pursuit of Lauren. Ultimately, he does do some much-needed reflection and personal growth. The story ends in a HEA, but personally, I think Lauren should have made Ben work harder and grovel more.
~ Favorite Quote ~
“Have a little faith.”
**Received a copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.**
“The political fixer and his mark.”
Two Sides of a Secret is the standalone second book in Kelly Cain’s Secret Ties series that features adoption romances.
Lauren Steele has known she’s adopted her whole life. It’s not a secret that can be kept when you’re black and your parents are white. At an early age, Lauren and her family dealt with racism from within their families. Resulting in her parents making the decision to no longer associate with their families. Lauren knows what her parents have sacrificed for her and believes that it is her duty to repay them by taking care of them and running their beloved florist shop, even if her dream and passion lies in another field. Lauren’s parents mean the world to her, and unlike others in her adoption support group, she has no desire to search for or be reunited with the people who gave birth to her.
Ben Specter is a political fixer, tasked with investigating the background of an up-and-coming gubernatorial candidate. When it’s discovered one of the candidate's parents has a child who was given up for adoption, Ben goes to investigate the person undercover. Posing as Ben Specht, he pretends to be a local grad student and takes a job with Steele Florist as a delivery driver. Before he knows what happens, the line between work and pleasure gets blurred and the resulting fallout is more than he or Lauren could ever expect.
Two Sides of a Secret was a really good story. Honestly, I wouldn’t expect anything less from Kelly. She’s an amazing author who really knows how to draw a reader into the story. The title and book cover really fit this book perfectly. Lauren is very reserved and doesn’t seem to trust easily. But she’s someone that once she lets you into her world she gives you her whole heart, be that friendship or something more. Ben was someone I wasn’t fond of. While I understand he had a job to do, I wasn’t happy with his deceit and his pursuit of Lauren. Ultimately, he does do some much-needed reflection and personal growth. The story ends in a HEA, but personally, I think Lauren should have made Ben work harder and grovel more.
~ Favorite Quote ~
“Have a little faith.”
**Received a copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.**
November 9, 2023
I like the escapism of romance and fantasy, but there is nothing like a story you can actually relate to, and Kelly Cain once again delivers. Ben and Lauren are as real as characters can get and they are smart enough to learn from their experiences which made me adore them. Political intrigue and old secrets keep them apart, but the romance is a delicious slow burn all the way through. I really rooted for these two to get together. Fabulous read.
July 3, 2023
I was lucky enough to read an ARC of this book, which is the second in a compelling, nuanced series about the complexities of family and identity - alongside a generous helping of romance, of course!
This book was naturally different to its predecessor, because its heroine, Lauren, is quite different to Nichelle in A Kiss from the Past. Unlike Nichelle, Lauren has zero interest in learning about her birth family and the history behind her adoption - but that history finds her anyway.
The vessel for that intrusion just so happens to be a very sexy man named Ben - or as he's known to Lauren and her co-workers, "BS", which made me snort-laugh every time I read it. Ben is Black and Jewish and I LOVED reading about the subtleties of his family culture and his approach to who he was - especially how totally confident and comfortable he was in that aspect of his life.
There is an element of deception in this book, but the organic evolution of the characters' feelings and Ben's willingness to own his choices and make amends (teshuvah!) I wasn't just okay with it, I was rooting for them both. The delay in their physical intimacy helped, too - even though the author is a little cruel the way she withholds her signature spice 'til the end!
This series gets better and better and I can't wait to read the next book!
This book was naturally different to its predecessor, because its heroine, Lauren, is quite different to Nichelle in A Kiss from the Past. Unlike Nichelle, Lauren has zero interest in learning about her birth family and the history behind her adoption - but that history finds her anyway.
The vessel for that intrusion just so happens to be a very sexy man named Ben - or as he's known to Lauren and her co-workers, "BS", which made me snort-laugh every time I read it. Ben is Black and Jewish and I LOVED reading about the subtleties of his family culture and his approach to who he was - especially how totally confident and comfortable he was in that aspect of his life.
There is an element of deception in this book, but the organic evolution of the characters' feelings and Ben's willingness to own his choices and make amends (teshuvah!) I wasn't just okay with it, I was rooting for them both. The delay in their physical intimacy helped, too - even though the author is a little cruel the way she withholds her signature spice 'til the end!
This series gets better and better and I can't wait to read the next book!
July 3, 2023
This is entertaining easy read that is action packed, suspenseful, secrets, witty, romantic, steamy, great characters with a plot that held me captive. Instead of Lauren pursuing her career dreams of working on political campaigns; she chose to take over her adoptive parents floral business. Ben who is an investigator who comes into the floral shop allegedly looking for job. Ben is actually investing Lauren for one of his clients that’s running for political office. His client thinks that Lauren is his older sister that his mom put up for adoption. As Lauren and Ben are spending time together the two are falling for each other; leaving Ben with getting more than he bargained for in their budding relationship. I enjoyed reading about Ben and Lauren’s suspenseful journey and the way Ben went about investigating Lauren. It was also such a treat that Lauren just like her brother wanted to be a part of the political arena.
How will Lauren feel when she learns of Ben deception, will she forgive him, how will Lauren feel about her younger brother, will the two work together, will Lauren learn of the reason she was put of for adoption, is there an HEA in store for Ben and Lauren?
I received an ARC via Booksprout and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
How will Lauren feel when she learns of Ben deception, will she forgive him, how will Lauren feel about her younger brother, will the two work together, will Lauren learn of the reason she was put of for adoption, is there an HEA in store for Ben and Lauren?
I received an ARC via Booksprout and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
September 15, 2023
Kelly Cain has done it again in the second installment of her Secret Ties series, TWO SIDE OF A SECRET. In it we meet Lauren, a heroine who tends to put others first as she set aside her dream of becoming a campaign writer to run her adoptive parents’ floral shop. The void in her career isn’t all that she’s missing. Lauren has yet to experience real love. So when she meets Ben, the book’s sexy hero who’s in need of a job (allegedly), she hires him immediately, hoping to fill at least one of the two voids in her life.
But Ben isn’t who we’d thought, which sets off a series of events that leaves Lauren questioning her origins as well as a love she’d believed to be true. In the end, Lauren’s left deciding whether that love can override the deep deception.
Kelly is a master storyteller, and Book 2 in her Secret Ties series continues to showcase her talents. The slow burn, suspense, and familial/ethical challenges are realistic, heart-wrenching and heartwarming, all at the same time. Seeing the characters win after such a tumultuous journey was so satisfying. I highly recommend!
But Ben isn’t who we’d thought, which sets off a series of events that leaves Lauren questioning her origins as well as a love she’d believed to be true. In the end, Lauren’s left deciding whether that love can override the deep deception.
Kelly is a master storyteller, and Book 2 in her Secret Ties series continues to showcase her talents. The slow burn, suspense, and familial/ethical challenges are realistic, heart-wrenching and heartwarming, all at the same time. Seeing the characters win after such a tumultuous journey was so satisfying. I highly recommend!
July 4, 2023
Despite the differences in the heroines and my own desires for finding our biological parents, I found that I really identified with Lauren closely. Nichelle, the heroine of the first book in this series was harder for me to empathize with. I was happy to see her reappearance in this book via the adoption support group and was happy to see her be a support system for Lauren once she finally felt able to open up to the group. I was fully invested in Lauren's story. My adoptive parents, my ONLY parents also adopted later in life, are now elderly and battling health issues. I built my life to be close to them in case of emergency so I understood how Lauren felt trying to be true to her dreams but still honoring her feelings of needing to take care of her parents. I loved seeing the nature vs. nurture argument played out in the book with the political aspirations of Lauren and her half brother. This was an AMAZING second book in the series and I'm now doubly anxious to read the next book in the series! I received a complimentary copy of this book via Booksprout and am leaving this review of my own volition.
July 4, 2023
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
4.5 stars.
A very engaging and entertaining story with really compelling leads, “Two Sides of a Secret”, by Kelly Cain (Tule Publishing), is about lies, secrets, trust, and conflict in a problematic, complex world.
I loved the storyline and how the characters felt so true and normal, with their secrets, wishes, fears, ambition.
The leads become fond of each other before falling in love and the process was sweet and sexy, with cute, subtle details.
I also loved the hero, Ben, and how the author wrote the conflict of interest at the core of the character and romance. The process was always complex, intriguing and very human. It also felt as a very actual issue.
I was a bit surprised that I liked Ben despite the arrogance and deception, so I guess the author did a good job with his character, giving him some sort of integrity and strong work ethics.
Lauren is an amazing, talented and caring woman, still trying to find her path.
It was fascinating to navigate between Ben’s problematic occupation and the attraction to Lauren.
The romance evolves slowly with all the reticence, lies and some sad, true events being revealed by Ben and redeeming him in a roundabout way.
I was expecting more information about the impact of racism in Lauren’s childhood and knowing more about the biological family.
It was such an absorbing read! Kelly Cain’s writing style is excellent.
4.5 stars.
A very engaging and entertaining story with really compelling leads, “Two Sides of a Secret”, by Kelly Cain (Tule Publishing), is about lies, secrets, trust, and conflict in a problematic, complex world.
I loved the storyline and how the characters felt so true and normal, with their secrets, wishes, fears, ambition.
The leads become fond of each other before falling in love and the process was sweet and sexy, with cute, subtle details.
I also loved the hero, Ben, and how the author wrote the conflict of interest at the core of the character and romance. The process was always complex, intriguing and very human. It also felt as a very actual issue.
I was a bit surprised that I liked Ben despite the arrogance and deception, so I guess the author did a good job with his character, giving him some sort of integrity and strong work ethics.
Lauren is an amazing, talented and caring woman, still trying to find her path.
It was fascinating to navigate between Ben’s problematic occupation and the attraction to Lauren.
The romance evolves slowly with all the reticence, lies and some sad, true events being revealed by Ben and redeeming him in a roundabout way.
I was expecting more information about the impact of racism in Lauren’s childhood and knowing more about the biological family.
It was such an absorbing read! Kelly Cain’s writing style is excellent.
dnf
August 7, 2023The premise of this story really intrigued me: a Black adoptee of white parents who has no interest in finding her birth parents gets dragged into their story when the son of her birth mother contemplates a run for governor, and Lauren's relationship to him is discovered during a "dig for the dirt" pre-campaign-announcement investigation. But the writing here was just so clunky—so many vague pronoun references and awkwardly-constructed sentences—that I kept getting pushed out of the story.
DNF at 12%.
DNF at 12%.
July 20, 2023
What a great addition to this series. It was an intriguing and entertaining read. I was drawn into Ben and Lauren's story from the very start. Their journey was not easy but I loved every minute of it. Their story is filled with suspense, secrets, lies and so much more. This book is a page turner and you do not want to miss reading it. I cannot wait for the next book in this series. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 26, 2023
A delicious slow burn with an intriguing, unique plot. This is the second book in the series and both of them are excellent and well written. This author is great at writing authentic characters that will have your heart. Highly recommend. :D
July 20, 2023
This is book two and the secret ties series. This book is definitely a page turner. This story has family secrets, drama a lot of twists and turns with lies and surprise. This book is a great read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 26, 2023
A fun, enjoyable and heartwarming story that holds your attention from the start. The characters are realistic, endearing and easily become great book friends. A book to definitely add to your summer reading list.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 30, 2023
I loved this second book in Kelly’s Secret Ties series. Lauren and Ben are both strong characters whose slow burn love story is one that will have you rooting for both of them. Kelly writes such interesting stories with topics explored with sensitivity and authenticity and this book is unmissable.
July 11, 2023
Two Sides of a Secret is a romance that centers on the theme of adoption, however, with humor and inspiring confidence to those who are on the path of finding birth families. It's a lovely and easy read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 1, 2026
Two Sides of a Secret:
I enjoyed this book and characters, first time reading this Author but will be looking for more of her books,
I enjoyed this book and characters, first time reading this Author but will be looking for more of her books,
July 22, 2023
I received this arc of Two Sides of a Secret in exchange for my honest review. This is the second book in Kelly Cain’s fascinating new series, Secret Tie. Both books have dealt with women learning about their biological families. In this story, Lauren Steele has always known she was adopted since she’s Black and her parents are White. However, she has had no desire to learn about the people who threw her away. She is very grateful to the couple who adopted her and gave her so much love. Lauren runs her parents florist shop since they’ve retired. It is not the career she wants but feels she owes it to them for taking her in. She got her masters degree in political science and always wanted to work for a candidate she believed in.
As the book opens, we also meet Ben Specter who works for politicians, searching for any skeletons and handling them. He is hired by a California state senator, William, contemplating a run as governor. He would be the first Black governor for the state. Ben’s searches identify William’s mother as having a secret baby when she was in college that she gave up for adoption. The baby is Lauren. So Ben, using a set up identity, gets a job at Lauren’s flower shop to get close to her and determine if she knows about this. As he works there, he and Lauren start spending time together and notice an attraction that both try to fight. Ben realizes that once Lauren knows what he does, she will most likely hate him. She confides in him about her dreams of working for a political campaign and also her wishes to not know who her biological parents are.
There is a lot of angst and romance in this book. I liked Ben and Lauren together and felt that both were genuine in spite of Ben’s job. The concept behind this storyline was very original and quite intriguing to read. Kelly brought up many issues about both the adoptee and the people placing a child for adoption. I liked seeing the characters from the first book, even though the two could be read as stand alone books. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. This is a five star book.
As the book opens, we also meet Ben Specter who works for politicians, searching for any skeletons and handling them. He is hired by a California state senator, William, contemplating a run as governor. He would be the first Black governor for the state. Ben’s searches identify William’s mother as having a secret baby when she was in college that she gave up for adoption. The baby is Lauren. So Ben, using a set up identity, gets a job at Lauren’s flower shop to get close to her and determine if she knows about this. As he works there, he and Lauren start spending time together and notice an attraction that both try to fight. Ben realizes that once Lauren knows what he does, she will most likely hate him. She confides in him about her dreams of working for a political campaign and also her wishes to not know who her biological parents are.
There is a lot of angst and romance in this book. I liked Ben and Lauren together and felt that both were genuine in spite of Ben’s job. The concept behind this storyline was very original and quite intriguing to read. Kelly brought up many issues about both the adoptee and the people placing a child for adoption. I liked seeing the characters from the first book, even though the two could be read as stand alone books. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. This is a five star book.
April 1, 2025
It was kind of odd reading a book which had characters working in the political sphere in current times.
Lauren is a florist but only because she is following in the footsteps of her adoptive parents who owned the shop before they retired and handed it over to her. Her real love is politics and she dreams of becoming a social media content creator for a political figure she admires and feels espouses her values. Only she knows the sacrifices her parents made when they adopted a little black baby into a white family that wasn't supportive of their decision.
Ben is on the other side of political life as an investigator who digs up dirt and makes it go away for politicians. He's been emotionally coasting for years after a bad breakup that made him leave his legal career and strike out. He justifies his job by the good he achieves and largely ignores the pain caused to any skeletons he may dig up as part of his job.
Now Lauren is a skeleton and he's going to face a lot of questions about why he does what he does. ie. Lies for a living.
When Ben goes undercover at Lauren's shop to find out if she is likely to be a thread to her unknown half brother running for office, he is doing his job. That's all. Definitely. In and out once he has the problem solved.
Lauren knows there is something off about Ben but the attraction between them is disconcerting. She's already struggling with decisions about her future but she has no idea that Ben is going to blow up her whole world.
It was fascinating reading this story, waiting for the moment when Lauren finds out why Ben is there in her life.
Waiting for Ben to wake up that the "skeleton" he's digging up has feelings and can be hurt. Especially by him.
It was great to see the final resolution of the story and the journey both protagonists had to go through to finally make it to the required HEA.
The secondary characters were well drawn also and I'm intrigued to see if any of them turn up in further books in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lauren is a florist but only because she is following in the footsteps of her adoptive parents who owned the shop before they retired and handed it over to her. Her real love is politics and she dreams of becoming a social media content creator for a political figure she admires and feels espouses her values. Only she knows the sacrifices her parents made when they adopted a little black baby into a white family that wasn't supportive of their decision.
Ben is on the other side of political life as an investigator who digs up dirt and makes it go away for politicians. He's been emotionally coasting for years after a bad breakup that made him leave his legal career and strike out. He justifies his job by the good he achieves and largely ignores the pain caused to any skeletons he may dig up as part of his job.
Now Lauren is a skeleton and he's going to face a lot of questions about why he does what he does. ie. Lies for a living.
When Ben goes undercover at Lauren's shop to find out if she is likely to be a thread to her unknown half brother running for office, he is doing his job. That's all. Definitely. In and out once he has the problem solved.
Lauren knows there is something off about Ben but the attraction between them is disconcerting. She's already struggling with decisions about her future but she has no idea that Ben is going to blow up her whole world.
It was fascinating reading this story, waiting for the moment when Lauren finds out why Ben is there in her life.
Waiting for Ben to wake up that the "skeleton" he's digging up has feelings and can be hurt. Especially by him.
It was great to see the final resolution of the story and the journey both protagonists had to go through to finally make it to the required HEA.
The secondary characters were well drawn also and I'm intrigued to see if any of them turn up in further books in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 7, 2023
So many secrets - Lauren is torn between her desire to pursue her passion and her obligation to her retired adoptive parents. They turned over their floral business to her, but never really got her buy-in to their plan for her. Ben works for an organization that cleans up the problems people create for themselves (think Scandal's Olivia Pope). Guess who's his next assignment.
A lot of feelings were unearthed in this story. Lauren never knew her origins, vehemently didn't want to ever know the people who walked away from her. To have her life laid out for public scrutiny is daunting. To have the person she is falling for be the reason is maddening and hurtful. But Ben never gives up. He knows she is the one for him. He will protect her person until she is ready to allow him to protect her heart.
A great story with wonderful characters. Unlike the first story in the series, the MC has no desire to know her origins but it was thrust into her face. The havoc wreaked on Lauren's life is just what she sought to avoid. But in the end, her life is better. She took a chance on herself, stepping out of her comfort zone to seize the life and love she wanted.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A lot of feelings were unearthed in this story. Lauren never knew her origins, vehemently didn't want to ever know the people who walked away from her. To have her life laid out for public scrutiny is daunting. To have the person she is falling for be the reason is maddening and hurtful. But Ben never gives up. He knows she is the one for him. He will protect her person until she is ready to allow him to protect her heart.
A great story with wonderful characters. Unlike the first story in the series, the MC has no desire to know her origins but it was thrust into her face. The havoc wreaked on Lauren's life is just what she sought to avoid. But in the end, her life is better. She took a chance on herself, stepping out of her comfort zone to seize the life and love she wanted.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 9, 2023
Two Sides of a Secret is about Ben, a political fixer, who forms a relationship with Lauren, the target of his investigation. When Ben is asked to research a potential candidate for statewide office, he is surprised to find a secret older sister who was adopted by a different family.
The book is about identity and adoption. It's also about the ethical questions that Ben faces as he lies to gain information about Lauren, even as he is growing to like and respect her.
A Black woman, Lauren was adopted by white parents. She has struggled to fit in as the only Black in her family's world and as someone who is criticized for acting white with potential Black friends. While she and her adoptive parents love each other, she feels guilt because they were isolated when their relatives didn't accept their mixed race family. Cain helps you understand the emotional challenges that Lauren faces.
This is also about the pressures of a high profile campaign and the temptation to treat people as means to an end and to cross ethical boundaries.
Even as Ben lies to Lauren, you empathize with his dilemma and see why the two characters like each other.
The book is about identity and adoption. It's also about the ethical questions that Ben faces as he lies to gain information about Lauren, even as he is growing to like and respect her.
A Black woman, Lauren was adopted by white parents. She has struggled to fit in as the only Black in her family's world and as someone who is criticized for acting white with potential Black friends. While she and her adoptive parents love each other, she feels guilt because they were isolated when their relatives didn't accept their mixed race family. Cain helps you understand the emotional challenges that Lauren faces.
This is also about the pressures of a high profile campaign and the temptation to treat people as means to an end and to cross ethical boundaries.
Even as Ben lies to Lauren, you empathize with his dilemma and see why the two characters like each other.
July 12, 2023
Two Sides of a Secret by Kelly Cain is the second book in her Secret Ties series. Unlike the main character from book one Lauren know she is adopted but has zero interested in knowing anything more. She loves her adoptive parents making a career sacrifice to take over their floral business upon their retirement. She is an easy character to like because of this. However, the truth from her beginnings will come out in this story. That is what this series is all about. The question as I began to read was how much fall-out would there be because of this secret being revealed.
I sort of wanted to dislike Ben but this character demanded different from this reader. He takes responsibility for his work as a “Fixer” with his genuine goodness being evident in his actions. I found myself pulling for Lauren and Ben to work through all that is revealed to find a love that would last.
A serious but not too serious of an entertaining read.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I sort of wanted to dislike Ben but this character demanded different from this reader. He takes responsibility for his work as a “Fixer” with his genuine goodness being evident in his actions. I found myself pulling for Lauren and Ben to work through all that is revealed to find a love that would last.
A serious but not too serious of an entertaining read.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 4, 2023
Everyone has secrets that are either easy to figure out while others are complex in nature. This story has a few. Lauren is a child of adoption and knows it. She cares not to know her birth parents, yet she shares not one interest with her adopted parents. Everything she does is in contrast to who she wants to be or even how she feels about herself. Ben is a lawyer who changed careers because of a scandal in his family law firm that involved him. Now he is an investigator for a political family to find the skeletons in the closet before they come out on their own. This is the basis for the start of the story. It is easy to figure out where the story is going in the first few minutes of reading. What will keep your interest is how the writer takes you along on the journey of discovery for the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 4, 2023
This is the second novel in the series, but I think the books can be read as stand-alone. This book features Lauren, a successful flower shop owner, and Ben, a political investigator. The first few chapters had a slow start for me. I actually thought I'd need to fight to finish the book, but the story picked up and I didn't want to put it down. Kelly Cain's characters are well-written and relatable. I enjoyed watching Lauren and Ben develop as the book moved toward their happily ever after. The secondary characters were fun and added depth to the story. Awesome summer read with clean language (I honestly don't recall any cussing...so if it exists, it is sparingly so) but an adult scene or two. I've enjoyed Cain's books and look forward to more from her.
I received a free copy of this book from BookSprouts in exchange for my honest review.
I received a free copy of this book from BookSprouts in exchange for my honest review.
July 4, 2023
I loved the story, I could relate to some of the questions Lauren had as an adoptee and I could understand her pain of getting to know her birth family while they didn't want to do anything with her it seems.
This story is about Lauren and Ben. Ben is hired by a politician who wants to run for candidacy. He hires the law firm of Ben to look for any skeletons in his closet. It seems like Lauren is one of those skeletons. For his job Ben must get closer to her without revealig whom he is. While the weeks pass and Ben's assignment starts to come to a close he develops feelings for Lauren. Lauren rightfully feels betrayed by his deceiving actions, and wonders what's really Ben or his fake alter-ego that he made up. Will they get past this obstacle or will it tear them apart?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story is about Lauren and Ben. Ben is hired by a politician who wants to run for candidacy. He hires the law firm of Ben to look for any skeletons in his closet. It seems like Lauren is one of those skeletons. For his job Ben must get closer to her without revealig whom he is. While the weeks pass and Ben's assignment starts to come to a close he develops feelings for Lauren. Lauren rightfully feels betrayed by his deceiving actions, and wonders what's really Ben or his fake alter-ego that he made up. Will they get past this obstacle or will it tear them apart?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 15, 2023
Loved the story of Ben and Lauren! Love to read about love for black women! This author did an excellent job of writint Lauren as a strong, intelligent but balanced heroine that comes across that way from start to finish. This was a page turner, good plot that draws you in and holds your interest the whole way through. Loved reading about how their upbringing and life experiences shaped them. Ben and Lauren were both dynamic characters that you grow to lovr and root for. The only con for me was the extreme slow burn, drawn out/long awaited sex between this couple. Great love story that just took too long to get to the "luvin." I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 6, 2023
I enjoyed Two Sides of a Secret Book 2 of Secret Ties. Lauren hates working in the family flower shop, she has bigger dreams. Ben is investing Lauren for a case he is working on. They have a great chemistry but Ben is hiding secrets and when they come out will Lauren be able to forgive him. I enjoyed the overall storyline but it was a bit slow in areas which is why I gave 4 stars. I had to force myself to not skip some areas. I did like the characters: Lauren is a strong, smart woman and Ben is a dedicated, loyal man. They have their ups and downs but they get through it together. I would recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 26, 2024
I loved Book One in the Secret Tie series, and Book Two did not disappoint! Lauren might be one of my favorite Kelly Cain protagonists and it was satisfying to see her tough shell get slowly softened over the course of the book. Ben was, of course, wonderful, and i highly enjoyed getting a dual-POV whereas in some romances I don't really want or need that-- in this case, it was needed and so well-done. I could see both sides and sympathize with both main characters. Both had a lot to lose and ultimately so much to gain, and it all culminated in a truly satisfying end that also felt realistic. If you enjoy multicultural romance with a little family drama, some well-intentioned but misguided betrayal, and some political intrigue, definitely reccommend!
July 11, 2023
Two sides to everything
This book has shown, that there is really three sides to every story. His side, her side and the truth.
This book also shows that karma is real.
Lauren and Ben has a chemistry that is very hot and magnetic. I have to say, their story starts out with a twist and ends with an explosion of love and flowers.
I’ve enjoyed the first book and now the second book. I’m looking forward to seeing the third book and more.
Any opinions expressed in this review are solely and uniquely made by me and I am happily leaving this review. I originally voluntarily received an advanced copy of THIS book via bsprout.
This book has shown, that there is really three sides to every story. His side, her side and the truth.
This book also shows that karma is real.
Lauren and Ben has a chemistry that is very hot and magnetic. I have to say, their story starts out with a twist and ends with an explosion of love and flowers.
I’ve enjoyed the first book and now the second book. I’m looking forward to seeing the third book and more.
Any opinions expressed in this review are solely and uniquely made by me and I am happily leaving this review. I originally voluntarily received an advanced copy of THIS book via bsprout.
July 20, 2023
The title of the story definitely fits the plot. Lauren is a secret while Ben is keeping one. This made the storyline very interesting. It's longer than I usually read, but I understand why so much detail was poured into the story. It brought depth to their personalities and sets the scene for the secrets to be explored. I liked Lauren and Ben individually and as a couple as their personalities mush well together. Once all the secrets are exposed, it's their chemistry that keeps the connection strong between them and ultimately ends with their happily ever after.
March 28, 2025
Ben goes undercover to find about more about a political candidate’s secret half sister but he doesn’t expect to fall for Lauren. Lauren knows she’s adopted and she’s not happy at the family florist business and wants to pursue a career in politics, even strongly considered a particular candidate, if only she knew she already had a connection. Ben and Lauren get closes but she knows he’s hiding something, even he can’t completely pass as a poor college student with the expensive meals he makes her. But when she finds out the truth will she be able to forgive all the lying and secrets?
July 4, 2023
In the beginning, I had a hard time following where the story was going. Characters were very well written and followable. I wish I had read the first book, as I think I could have had more context to some of t(e other characters.
I will recommend Pythia book to people, with the caviar that it should be read second.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I will recommend Pythia book to people, with the caviar that it should be read second.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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