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Pelican Bay #5
Chasing Secrets
Lincoln
I was just there to do my job and then he arrived, and I knew in my gut everything was about to change. Everything…
For former soldier turned nurse practitioner Lincoln Arden, Pelican Bay was supposed to be just another dot on a map, and the crotchety old man he’d been hired to assist in his physical rehabilitation was supposed to be just another patient whose body was slowly giving in to the harsh reality of time.
It was just another job… one in a long list of many. One that lasted only long enough that Lincoln could do what he needed to do and then keep moving. Always moving.
But nothing about the live-in job was like all the others. Not the chaotic group of men who’d made themselves into a family, not the charming old farmhouse that sat in the middle of nowhere, and most certainly not the endless acres of trees, streams, and every other one of Mother Nature’s miracles that reminded him of the beauty of life after being witness to so much death.
He'd done it, though. He’d remained on the outskirts of that family despite the warm welcome they’d offered him from day one, and he hadn’t let his surroundings make him forget that it would be time to move on soon enough.
But then he arrived…
Theo
Returning to Pelican Bay and the past that came with it was the last thing I wanted to do, but “visiting” my former best friend would give me the time I needed to figure out where to disappear to next...
Even though Theo Lancaster had only lived a few towns over from Pelican Bay, returning to the hometown of his one-time best friend in northern Minnesota was like walking through a doorway to the past and the exact moment his life had changed forever.
Simply put, the small, picture-perfect town was the last place he wanted to be, but with no home, no friends or family to lean on, and no money, his choices had been pretty limited. Fortunately, the past that haunted his dreams night after night had prepared him for the moment by turning him into something he’d never thought he would be.
A liar.
A fake.
A fraud.
A man who knew what mask to wear and what words to say to keep the truth at bay.
Hiding his scars, both the ones covering his body and the ones ripping his soul to shreds with each day that passed, was easy. Telling everyone he was okay spilled from his lips as effortlessly as the fake smile that he’d been perfecting for years. Lying about what had happened to him after that fateful day—when the truth about who he really was had been discovered—had been so well rehearsed that sometimes he even managed to fool himself into believing it had all been a terrible dream.
It had been a good plan. Hide out for a few days, come up with a plan of what to do next, and disappear before anyone figured out the truth.
But nowhere in his plans had he even given thought to meeting a gorgeous-as-hell nurse who saw past his lies with ease. A man who knew Theo wasn’t okay and was intent on healing as many of Theo’s scars as he could, both inside and out. A man who wanted the same thing for Theo that he needed for himself.
To stop running.
**While this book can be read as a standalone, reading it before the others in the series will cause spoilers for previous books.**
***Please note this book comes with several triggers... they are listed at the beginning of the book so you can download the sample if you wish to read what those triggers are prior to downloading entire book***
I was just there to do my job and then he arrived, and I knew in my gut everything was about to change. Everything…
For former soldier turned nurse practitioner Lincoln Arden, Pelican Bay was supposed to be just another dot on a map, and the crotchety old man he’d been hired to assist in his physical rehabilitation was supposed to be just another patient whose body was slowly giving in to the harsh reality of time.
It was just another job… one in a long list of many. One that lasted only long enough that Lincoln could do what he needed to do and then keep moving. Always moving.
But nothing about the live-in job was like all the others. Not the chaotic group of men who’d made themselves into a family, not the charming old farmhouse that sat in the middle of nowhere, and most certainly not the endless acres of trees, streams, and every other one of Mother Nature’s miracles that reminded him of the beauty of life after being witness to so much death.
He'd done it, though. He’d remained on the outskirts of that family despite the warm welcome they’d offered him from day one, and he hadn’t let his surroundings make him forget that it would be time to move on soon enough.
But then he arrived…
Theo
Returning to Pelican Bay and the past that came with it was the last thing I wanted to do, but “visiting” my former best friend would give me the time I needed to figure out where to disappear to next...
Even though Theo Lancaster had only lived a few towns over from Pelican Bay, returning to the hometown of his one-time best friend in northern Minnesota was like walking through a doorway to the past and the exact moment his life had changed forever.
Simply put, the small, picture-perfect town was the last place he wanted to be, but with no home, no friends or family to lean on, and no money, his choices had been pretty limited. Fortunately, the past that haunted his dreams night after night had prepared him for the moment by turning him into something he’d never thought he would be.
A liar.
A fake.
A fraud.
A man who knew what mask to wear and what words to say to keep the truth at bay.
Hiding his scars, both the ones covering his body and the ones ripping his soul to shreds with each day that passed, was easy. Telling everyone he was okay spilled from his lips as effortlessly as the fake smile that he’d been perfecting for years. Lying about what had happened to him after that fateful day—when the truth about who he really was had been discovered—had been so well rehearsed that sometimes he even managed to fool himself into believing it had all been a terrible dream.
It had been a good plan. Hide out for a few days, come up with a plan of what to do next, and disappear before anyone figured out the truth.
But nowhere in his plans had he even given thought to meeting a gorgeous-as-hell nurse who saw past his lies with ease. A man who knew Theo wasn’t okay and was intent on healing as many of Theo’s scars as he could, both inside and out. A man who wanted the same thing for Theo that he needed for himself.
To stop running.
**While this book can be read as a standalone, reading it before the others in the series will cause spoilers for previous books.**
***Please note this book comes with several triggers... they are listed at the beginning of the book so you can download the sample if you wish to read what those triggers are prior to downloading entire book***
284 pages, Paperback
First published July 5, 2023
332 people are currently reading
738 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
August 20, 2023
~1.5~
Ugh, Sloane Kennedy doesn't know when to stop. Every one of her MCs is broken, and the angst is so heavy and bleak, the reader becomes desensitized.
This fifth installment features: homophobia (but of course), conversion therapy (described in some detail), euthanasia, self-harm (very graphic), a suicide attempt, assault, and other themes of despair.
I felt like I started reading in the middle of a story. I don't really remember the previous MCs, so the confusion was real.
All of Sloane's men run, like legit they take off into the woods or, you know, steal a car only to sit in front of an ice cream stand for hours.
Theo changed the rules of the relationship so many times, I got whiplash, and Linc just put up with it.
There is no real character or relationship development here, and the declarations of love come out of nowhere.
Walter, Linc's patient, is meant to be funny, but I, for one, don't find sexual harassment amusing. And, yes, looking for cum stains and ribbing the MCs about having sex is harassment. Imagine if a woman were involved - would it be cute then too?
Plus, the epilogue is frankly ridiculous. Was the scene in the library necessary? Where did that come from? And the porn? Just what.
Can't recommend.
Ugh, Sloane Kennedy doesn't know when to stop. Every one of her MCs is broken, and the angst is so heavy and bleak, the reader becomes desensitized.
This fifth installment features: homophobia (but of course), conversion therapy (described in some detail), euthanasia, self-harm (very graphic), a suicide attempt, assault, and other themes of despair.
I felt like I started reading in the middle of a story. I don't really remember the previous MCs, so the confusion was real.
All of Sloane's men run, like legit they take off into the woods or, you know, steal a car only to sit in front of an ice cream stand for hours.
Theo changed the rules of the relationship so many times, I got whiplash, and Linc just put up with it.
There is no real character or relationship development here, and the declarations of love come out of nowhere.
Walter, Linc's patient, is meant to be funny, but I, for one, don't find sexual harassment amusing. And, yes, looking for cum stains and ribbing the MCs about having sex is harassment. Imagine if a woman were involved - would it be cute then too?
Plus, the epilogue is frankly ridiculous. Was the scene in the library necessary? Where did that come from? And the porn? Just what.
Can't recommend.
July 9, 2023
I'm really not sure how I feel about this one. I definitely cried a few times, but something just felt really off the whole way through and I can't quite work out what.
It also felt very instalove but it was hard to see this as any kind of romance because the amount of traumatic events being uncovered ended up overpowering any other elements of the story, and even the friendships felt forced, whereas in the other books in this series the friendships and found family elements were really strong.
It also felt like there were loose ends, particularly with Theo's parents - like do they never notice he's moved away, do they never try to find him?
I also found the whole 'Theo making porn' weirdly uncomfortable and out of place and it didn't feel like it fit with everything else we'd been told about the character. It didn't make any sense whatsoever to me and I'm still trying to work out what it added to the story other than yet another trauma.
I'm intrigued to see Riley's story but this one just feels out of place with the rest of the series.
It also felt very instalove but it was hard to see this as any kind of romance because the amount of traumatic events being uncovered ended up overpowering any other elements of the story, and even the friendships felt forced, whereas in the other books in this series the friendships and found family elements were really strong.
It also felt like there were loose ends, particularly with Theo's parents - like do they never notice he's moved away, do they never try to find him?
I also found the whole 'Theo making porn' weirdly uncomfortable and out of place and it didn't feel like it fit with everything else we'd been told about the character. It didn't make any sense whatsoever to me and I'm still trying to work out what it added to the story other than yet another trauma.
I'm intrigued to see Riley's story but this one just feels out of place with the rest of the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2024
I would give it the stars of the universe, gladly.✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️
Call me melodramatic, but treasures are meant to be buried right? So PLEASE bury this book with me in my arms when I die . [ RTC] fav read of the year 🥹🫶
Call me melodramatic, but treasures are meant to be buried right? So PLEASE bury this book with me in my arms when I die . [ RTC] fav read of the year 🥹🫶
Read
July 10, 2023Dnf @20%
Read this review.
She sums up my feeling towards Sloane and her books accurately.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Read this review.
She sums up my feeling towards Sloane and her books accurately.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
August 22, 2024
Chasing secrets was honestly absolutely incredible.
The way that sensitive subjects were dealt with was perfect and done it’s such a beautiful way it honestly made me love this book even more.
This has to be one of my new favourite books it truly broke me then made me whole again, the chemistry was breathtaking you could see just how much Lincoln and Theo love as well as care for each other.
I’d definitely recommend this book.
The way that sensitive subjects were dealt with was perfect and done it’s such a beautiful way it honestly made me love this book even more.
This has to be one of my new favourite books it truly broke me then made me whole again, the chemistry was breathtaking you could see just how much Lincoln and Theo love as well as care for each other.
I’d definitely recommend this book.
July 12, 2023
* spoilers *
The ending was horrible. Completely skipped their first time together and just bam all the sudden it's months later and Theo is completely fine with having sex. Like the whole book was his trauma relating to sex and then just skip forward past it ?!
And the random as hell porn stuff thrown in at the last second ? For really no reason??
Least favorite book in the series.
The ending was horrible. Completely skipped their first time together and just bam all the sudden it's months later and Theo is completely fine with having sex. Like the whole book was his trauma relating to sex and then just skip forward past it ?!
And the random as hell porn stuff thrown in at the last second ? For really no reason??
Least favorite book in the series.
July 18, 2023
DNF @ 50%
Pelican Bay has been one of my favorite series and I’ve been anxiously awaiting Lincoln and Theo’s story! However, it was a huge letdown.
The author relied far too heavily on the backstory built for both characters in the previous books. Book 4 was published almost 18 months ago and this one jumps right back into the action like no time has passed. It was jarring to read and the chemistry between the two main characters was nonexistent.
The storyline is also so repetitive, it made me think I was rereading pages on accident. Something would happen/be revealed in one characters POV, and then half of the next chapter in the other’s POV would just be repeating what the first character did. There was so much one step forward, two steps back.
Lincoln and Theo’s story was also missing the “hook” the previous books have. The rest of the series is a fantastic example of interconnected standalones that build off of each other yet each brings a unique storyline. Dallas’ medical issues, Issac and Newt being on the run, Ford’s redemption arc, and Sawyer’s hidden past are all examples of this. However book 5 felt so disjointed from that. We have two characters we’ve already seen and know a decent bit about yet there’s nothing new brought to the story. The entire arc of the storyline so far is them revealing their trauma. Coming off of how great the previous books were, that’s not enough to justify writing this.
There’s so much I could say about this story, but it would probably end up being longer than the actual book. Overall, this was a big drop off in the quality of the series. The characters were flat and relied heavily on prior trauma moving the plot forward. There was also a huge failure to incorporate the found family that had been built over the arc of the prior 4 books. Coming from a big fan of Sloane Kennedy’s previous work and a lover of angsty romance, this is not worth the read.
Pelican Bay has been one of my favorite series and I’ve been anxiously awaiting Lincoln and Theo’s story! However, it was a huge letdown.
The author relied far too heavily on the backstory built for both characters in the previous books. Book 4 was published almost 18 months ago and this one jumps right back into the action like no time has passed. It was jarring to read and the chemistry between the two main characters was nonexistent.
The storyline is also so repetitive, it made me think I was rereading pages on accident. Something would happen/be revealed in one characters POV, and then half of the next chapter in the other’s POV would just be repeating what the first character did. There was so much one step forward, two steps back.
Lincoln and Theo’s story was also missing the “hook” the previous books have. The rest of the series is a fantastic example of interconnected standalones that build off of each other yet each brings a unique storyline. Dallas’ medical issues, Issac and Newt being on the run, Ford’s redemption arc, and Sawyer’s hidden past are all examples of this. However book 5 felt so disjointed from that. We have two characters we’ve already seen and know a decent bit about yet there’s nothing new brought to the story. The entire arc of the storyline so far is them revealing their trauma. Coming off of how great the previous books were, that’s not enough to justify writing this.
There’s so much I could say about this story, but it would probably end up being longer than the actual book. Overall, this was a big drop off in the quality of the series. The characters were flat and relied heavily on prior trauma moving the plot forward. There was also a huge failure to incorporate the found family that had been built over the arc of the prior 4 books. Coming from a big fan of Sloane Kennedy’s previous work and a lover of angsty romance, this is not worth the read.
July 17, 2023
1.5, which still feels high. I read this the day it came out and was very disappointed. Like others have said, the Sloane Kennedy MM romance formula needs to be updated. This felt like a copy/paste of several of her other books but was also just nothing like the rest of this series. It is easily my least favorite in the series (book 4 sadly wasn't great either.) It was too fast, WAY too insta-love, and barely include the other Pelican Bay characters and settings. It felt like SK rushed with this one because it was a long time coming and readers were waiting to get Lincoln and Theo's story. I'd honestly forgotten who they were before I read this one and had to reread sections of the previous book. My main complaint is how heavy topics and character's trauma seemed like the focus instead of the plot and development of Linc and Theo's relationship - which is strange considering that a lot of their trauma wasn't actually dealt with, or was processed off-page. This was disappointing because I know SK can balance that so well and has done so again and again in other books/series!! This is the first SK book I'd read in a while, because I had loved the first few Pelican Bay so much, so I was very sad to not like this one.
December 31, 2023
DNF @ 26%
Aaaaand, I'm out, I can't do any more of this ridiculousness. There's a time and a place for instalove and calling a clearly ill and terrified person who you just met "sweetheart". Just no. And I don't want to even get started on Linc's (lack of) medical ethics. The bloke shouldn't be anywhere near patients. Just saying.
I believe there's trauma on trauma here and so with all this I'm putting myself out of my misery and calling it a day.
Aaaaand, I'm out, I can't do any more of this ridiculousness. There's a time and a place for instalove and calling a clearly ill and terrified person who you just met "sweetheart". Just no. And I don't want to even get started on Linc's (lack of) medical ethics. The bloke shouldn't be anywhere near patients. Just saying.
I believe there's trauma on trauma here and so with all this I'm putting myself out of my misery and calling it a day.
July 22, 2023
This book just wasn’t for me - I love SK books but this was just one tortured soul too many. If you’re new to the series/her style of writing you will likely love it, but it was a bit too ‘been there done that’ for me in that I could predict what was going to happen and it felt like each character had endless suffering simply because they needed to be endlessly suffering that only the other can end. I’d rather go back and reread The Protectors to be honest for this style of writing.
That said I will always try anything she writes :)
That said I will always try anything she writes :)
July 11, 2023
Let me start by reassuring you this story has a happy ending. After reading this review you might not believe me, but I promise it’s true. ☺️
If you’re a fan of Sloane Kennedy, then you’re no stranger to her brand of emotional devastation. It’ll also come as no surprise that this is one of the most difficult, gut-wrenching books I’ve read this year. It’s intensely painful, excruciatingly emotional and, at times, seriously depressing. But in between the hurt and suffering, Lincoln and Theo find a beautiful, unconditional, unwavering love, the strength and devotion of found family, and reasons to stop running from the past.
Theo’s a familiar face from earlier books; we know him as Ford’s childhood best friend and from the tragic, abusive encounter they suffered at the hands of Ford’s brother. Raised by devout, homophobic Christian families, unfortunately, that’s not the only trauma in their pasts. The extent of what Theo’s hiding is massive, and it’s unimaginable to think about him carrying that weight alone.
Lincoln’s a palliative care nurse who’s new to Pelican Bay and running from secrets of his own. He’s kind, caring, and infinitely patient, all of which make him perfectly suited for Theo, if only he can break through the wall Theo’s built to protect himself.
At the risk of spoilers, I won’t go into the story too much, but know the content is heavy. It’s a hurt/comfort story that’s heavy on the hurt. Definitely check the content & trigger warnings, because homophobia, conversion therapy, assisted suicide, self harm & mental illness are all major components of the story. I’d definitely recommend keeping tissues handy.
If you’re a fan of Sloane Kennedy, then you’re no stranger to her brand of emotional devastation. It’ll also come as no surprise that this is one of the most difficult, gut-wrenching books I’ve read this year. It’s intensely painful, excruciatingly emotional and, at times, seriously depressing. But in between the hurt and suffering, Lincoln and Theo find a beautiful, unconditional, unwavering love, the strength and devotion of found family, and reasons to stop running from the past.
Theo’s a familiar face from earlier books; we know him as Ford’s childhood best friend and from the tragic, abusive encounter they suffered at the hands of Ford’s brother. Raised by devout, homophobic Christian families, unfortunately, that’s not the only trauma in their pasts. The extent of what Theo’s hiding is massive, and it’s unimaginable to think about him carrying that weight alone.
Lincoln’s a palliative care nurse who’s new to Pelican Bay and running from secrets of his own. He’s kind, caring, and infinitely patient, all of which make him perfectly suited for Theo, if only he can break through the wall Theo’s built to protect himself.
At the risk of spoilers, I won’t go into the story too much, but know the content is heavy. It’s a hurt/comfort story that’s heavy on the hurt. Definitely check the content & trigger warnings, because homophobia, conversion therapy, assisted suicide, self harm & mental illness are all major components of the story. I’d definitely recommend keeping tissues handy.
July 27, 2023
Oof. What a heavy book. It should be 5 stars if it weren’t for the rushed ending in the epilogue!! So frustrating to read important stages of Lincoln and Theo‘s relationship in passing, in just a few sentences, when it would give the story so much more depth, and show the progress in Theo’s healing! Argh!
July 27, 2023
FR- Alors alors... alors j'avais super hâte de retrouver cet univers et cette série qui est une de mes préférées de l'auteure. On avait rapidement découvert Theo dans le tome 3 sur Ford et Cam et je suis vraiment contente d'avoir enfin son histoire.
Comme souvent dans les roman de l'auteure et particulièrement dans cette série, les thèmes abordés sont vraiment difficiles. J'ai énormément aimé tout ce que Sloane Kennedy nous propose dans ce 5eme tome.
Je n'ai pas lu beaucoup de romans traitant des thérapies de conversion mais à chaque fois, le sujet était abordé avec pudeur et sensibilité. Même si là on a clairement des détails sur ce qu'à subit Theo. J'ai versé plus d'une larme en lisant ces chapitres.
Le passé de Lincoln est totalement différent mais quand on en arrive à son secret et ce qui lui pèse depuis tant d'année... vous pouvez être sûrs que j'ai sorti les mouchoirs.
Une fois de plus, la plume de l'auteure est tout simplement magnifique. Les personnages sont touchants, forts, déchirants... on alterne entre le rire et les larmes, on ressent tout ce qu'ils traversent puissance mille...
J'ai adoré retrouvé les personnages des tomes précédents et en savoir un peu plus sur ce qu'ils sont devenus.
Bref, un excellent 5eme tome qui confirme encore une fois que cette série est ma préférée de l'auteure.
ENG- So well well well... well I was really looking forward to geting back to this universe and this series which is one of my favorites from the author. We quickly discovered Theo in book 3 about Ford and Cam and I'm really happy to finally have his story.
As often in the author's novels and particularly in this series, the topics covered are really difficult. I really liked everything that Sloane Kennedy offers us in this 5th volume.
I haven't read many novels dealing with conversion therapy, but each time the subject was approached with modesty and sensitivity. Even if there we clearly have details on what Theo suffered. I shed more than one tear while reading these chapters.
Lincoln's past is totally different, but when it comes to his secret and what's been hanging over him for so many years... you can be sure I pulled out the tissues.
Once again, the pen of the author is simply magnificent. The characters are touching, strong, heartbreaking... we alternate between laughter and tears, we feel everything they go through ...
I loved rediscovering characters from the previous books and knowing a little more about what they have become.
In short, an excellent book 5 which confirms once again that this series is my favorite of the author.
Comme souvent dans les roman de l'auteure et particulièrement dans cette série, les thèmes abordés sont vraiment difficiles. J'ai énormément aimé tout ce que Sloane Kennedy nous propose dans ce 5eme tome.
Je n'ai pas lu beaucoup de romans traitant des thérapies de conversion mais à chaque fois, le sujet était abordé avec pudeur et sensibilité. Même si là on a clairement des détails sur ce qu'à subit Theo. J'ai versé plus d'une larme en lisant ces chapitres.
Le passé de Lincoln est totalement différent mais quand on en arrive à son secret et ce qui lui pèse depuis tant d'année... vous pouvez être sûrs que j'ai sorti les mouchoirs.
Une fois de plus, la plume de l'auteure est tout simplement magnifique. Les personnages sont touchants, forts, déchirants... on alterne entre le rire et les larmes, on ressent tout ce qu'ils traversent puissance mille...
J'ai adoré retrouvé les personnages des tomes précédents et en savoir un peu plus sur ce qu'ils sont devenus.
Bref, un excellent 5eme tome qui confirme encore une fois que cette série est ma préférée de l'auteure.
ENG- So well well well... well I was really looking forward to geting back to this universe and this series which is one of my favorites from the author. We quickly discovered Theo in book 3 about Ford and Cam and I'm really happy to finally have his story.
As often in the author's novels and particularly in this series, the topics covered are really difficult. I really liked everything that Sloane Kennedy offers us in this 5th volume.
I haven't read many novels dealing with conversion therapy, but each time the subject was approached with modesty and sensitivity. Even if there we clearly have details on what Theo suffered. I shed more than one tear while reading these chapters.
Lincoln's past is totally different, but when it comes to his secret and what's been hanging over him for so many years... you can be sure I pulled out the tissues.
Once again, the pen of the author is simply magnificent. The characters are touching, strong, heartbreaking... we alternate between laughter and tears, we feel everything they go through ...
I loved rediscovering characters from the previous books and knowing a little more about what they have become.
In short, an excellent book 5 which confirms once again that this series is my favorite of the author.
July 16, 2023
The Sloane Kennedy formula needs an update (smaller MC with trauma, bigger dominant MC with his own demons etc)
There was so much trauma that the relationship between Theo and Lincoln took a backseat. There was no development and the bonding moments were also trauma related. We need a break once in a while from all the trauma!
Sex was a big deal for Theo so I don’t understand that the first time they have (penetrating) sex was off page. And the whole getting better in dealing with their traumas was also off page.
I loved the small glimpse of Newt. The trauma is well one as well but I would have loved more scenes away from that.
There was so much trauma that the relationship between Theo and Lincoln took a backseat. There was no development and the bonding moments were also trauma related. We need a break once in a while from all the trauma!
Sex was a big deal for Theo so I don’t understand that the first time they have (penetrating) sex was off page. And the whole getting better in dealing with their traumas was also off page.
I loved the small glimpse of Newt. The trauma is well one as well but I would have loved more scenes away from that.
July 10, 2023
This book has trigger warnings please read them. This whole series made me an emotional mess. Theo’s story was the most heartbreaking. Knowing this type of conversion therapy actually happens/happened to children makes me physically ill. As hard as they are I’m glad these stories are being told.
November 12, 2023
After reading the other four books in this series I was really looking forward to this book. Especially reading about Theo and getting to know more about him after the small glimpse we get of him in the last book.
This was a much harder book to get through than the others. This is the first series I’ve read by this author and after reading some of the other reviews it seems like this author loves to write about broken men and trauma. Boy does this book have trauma on top of trauma it was never ending throughout this whole book. Definitely read the trigger warnings before going into this one.
This book honestly started out good for me. The book picks right back up after the last book and it feels like a natural progression of the story. As well as over laps with the other books and we see this throughout the whole book and towards the end. I thought this was a great touch and really connected some of the books together.
Unfortunately some things were a miss for me right away. As such, when it comes to Theo and Lincoln meeting for the first time. It was instant Insta love and feeling a connection, regardless of them knowing each other for no longer than a minute. I would have much rather a slow burn/build up to really flesh out these characters relationship more. And due to Theo past trauma and also Lincoln this would have served them much better. With that some things were also told to us rather than shown. There was a scene when we find out that Theo and Lincoln’s first time together having sexy time was told to us off page rather than told to us. I think it was a faster way to get us through the story rather then taking the time to really show us and have this beautiful scene of them coming together and connecting but just rushed. Due to Theo trauma I wanted to see how the author would have handled this especially after everything we find out but nope we just get to see them later doing the deed like everything is okay when in fact it was a big deal for both of them and of course Theo after everything he went through.
I never thought the characters had a moment of peace just for them to get to know each other and just be. They were always something happening and it was trauma on top of trauma and never a breathing moment. I felt like I was getting whiplash from all the times Theo was going back and forth with Lincoln. Even though I couldn’t ever understand the trauma and pain that Theo have gone through I really thought the way it was handled between them was done poorly.
Overall this book did have me engaged the whole way through. It was a train wreak and I couldn’t look away, having to know what happened in the end. It had me crying, frustrated and happy in some moments but boy did this book take me on an emotional roller coaster. My rating for this is pretty high and only because the ending was sweet and I really did enjoy seeing some of the other characters. This didn’t live up to my expectations and did let me down in some areas but still an okay read. I really can’t wait to read Riley’s story next when he becomes older. I just really hope his story is done better and has much more happier moments unlike this book cause that sweet boy deserves all the goodness in the world.
This was a much harder book to get through than the others. This is the first series I’ve read by this author and after reading some of the other reviews it seems like this author loves to write about broken men and trauma. Boy does this book have trauma on top of trauma it was never ending throughout this whole book. Definitely read the trigger warnings before going into this one.
This book honestly started out good for me. The book picks right back up after the last book and it feels like a natural progression of the story. As well as over laps with the other books and we see this throughout the whole book and towards the end. I thought this was a great touch and really connected some of the books together.
Unfortunately some things were a miss for me right away. As such, when it comes to Theo and Lincoln meeting for the first time. It was instant Insta love and feeling a connection, regardless of them knowing each other for no longer than a minute. I would have much rather a slow burn/build up to really flesh out these characters relationship more. And due to Theo past trauma and also Lincoln this would have served them much better. With that some things were also told to us rather than shown. There was a scene when we find out that Theo and Lincoln’s first time together having sexy time was told to us off page rather than told to us. I think it was a faster way to get us through the story rather then taking the time to really show us and have this beautiful scene of them coming together and connecting but just rushed. Due to Theo trauma I wanted to see how the author would have handled this especially after everything we find out but nope we just get to see them later doing the deed like everything is okay when in fact it was a big deal for both of them and of course Theo after everything he went through.
I never thought the characters had a moment of peace just for them to get to know each other and just be. They were always something happening and it was trauma on top of trauma and never a breathing moment. I felt like I was getting whiplash from all the times Theo was going back and forth with Lincoln. Even though I couldn’t ever understand the trauma and pain that Theo have gone through I really thought the way it was handled between them was done poorly.
Overall this book did have me engaged the whole way through. It was a train wreak and I couldn’t look away, having to know what happened in the end. It had me crying, frustrated and happy in some moments but boy did this book take me on an emotional roller coaster. My rating for this is pretty high and only because the ending was sweet and I really did enjoy seeing some of the other characters. This didn’t live up to my expectations and did let me down in some areas but still an okay read. I really can’t wait to read Riley’s story next when he becomes older. I just really hope his story is done better and has much more happier moments unlike this book cause that sweet boy deserves all the goodness in the world.
July 11, 2023
This is an amazing, truly heart wrenching story filled with pain and hope. It's written in such a way that makes you feel every one of the ups and downs as Lincoln and Theo get to know each other and learn to trust themselves and those around them.
Both Theo and Lincoln are living with trauma in their past. I enjoyed the alternating pov's of the chapters as it gives you a great feel for both of these men.
This is a powerful story of love, hope, healing and trust. It was great catching up with some familiar friends in Pelican Bay again.
Both Theo and Lincoln are living with trauma in their past. I enjoyed the alternating pov's of the chapters as it gives you a great feel for both of these men.
This is a powerful story of love, hope, healing and trust. It was great catching up with some familiar friends in Pelican Bay again.
Read
July 14, 2023Really hate the ableism and unethical healthcare here. Rabbit deserved a chance to not be isolated, discover disability rights and justice and the vibrant online and in person community and culture. He deserved to meet and learn about the many people who suffer from debilitating chronic pain and build meaningful lives. To explore non pharmaceutical pain management options that may have worked. To develop interests, and above all not be a terrible plot device. I also hate the blend of medical care and romantic/sexual relationship development. It felt so unethical and unbelievable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2023
This book was along time coming, and it was well worth the wait. I put this book down a few times so that I could get my emotions under control. This is Lincoln and Theo’s story and I will say that this two characters have stolen my heart. There is so much depth to this two characters, it’s hard not to feel for them, and everything that they have gone through.
January 25, 2025
Audio 4⭐️
Story 3⭐️
Spice 1🌶
Tears 2💦
Narrator: Michael Dean
Dual POV, 1st person
Lincon and Theo
Enemies to lovers (ish)
Nurse/Odd jobs
HEA
Story 3⭐️
Spice 1🌶
Tears 2💦
Narrator: Michael Dean
Dual POV, 1st person
Lincon and Theo
Enemies to lovers (ish)
Nurse/Odd jobs
HEA
September 1, 2023
Possible Spoilers* but it all takes place within the first couple chapters...
Let me start by saying it's possible that, as an RN, I could not achieve the open-mindedness with this particular story that one often finds necessary when reading fictional romances.
That said, I made it to chapter 10 before giving up.
The instant attraction of a nurse to a malnourished, fevered, and nearly incoherent patient was closer to perving for me.
What ethical medical professional would become sexually aroused from the lips and warm breath of a sick young man who had just collapsed against their chest? Linc, a nurse practitioner, constantly has to "force" his body not to respond to a very sick, possibly delirious man when anything remotely sexual should, in my opinion, be the farthest thought from any nurse's mind. The inner dialog of how much a nurse wants to kiss a sick patient while fighting not to get "hard" was just too much for me.
Not to mention, a nurse finding anyone as sick as Theo (raging fever and possible sepsis) would have gotten them to a hospital. Period. How does a nurse, practitioner or not, come about intravenous antibiotics to administer at home? What MD signed off on it?
Who is Sloane's medical consultant for her stories?
Again, maybe I'm alone in these thoughts, but it was enough of a distraction for me that I just couldn't go on.
I love Sloane's stories and have more of her books than any other author in my library, but lately, I struggle with her new work, as it feels repetitive and boring, and now this...
Maybe I'll come back for a reread one day; for now, though, Chasing Secrets is on my rare DNF list.
Let me start by saying it's possible that, as an RN, I could not achieve the open-mindedness with this particular story that one often finds necessary when reading fictional romances.
That said, I made it to chapter 10 before giving up.
The instant attraction of a nurse to a malnourished, fevered, and nearly incoherent patient was closer to perving for me.
What ethical medical professional would become sexually aroused from the lips and warm breath of a sick young man who had just collapsed against their chest? Linc, a nurse practitioner, constantly has to "force" his body not to respond to a very sick, possibly delirious man when anything remotely sexual should, in my opinion, be the farthest thought from any nurse's mind. The inner dialog of how much a nurse wants to kiss a sick patient while fighting not to get "hard" was just too much for me.
Not to mention, a nurse finding anyone as sick as Theo (raging fever and possible sepsis) would have gotten them to a hospital. Period. How does a nurse, practitioner or not, come about intravenous antibiotics to administer at home? What MD signed off on it?
Who is Sloane's medical consultant for her stories?
Again, maybe I'm alone in these thoughts, but it was enough of a distraction for me that I just couldn't go on.
I love Sloane's stories and have more of her books than any other author in my library, but lately, I struggle with her new work, as it feels repetitive and boring, and now this...
Maybe I'll come back for a reread one day; for now, though, Chasing Secrets is on my rare DNF list.
July 13, 2023
What a heart wrenching story, I was snotting and bawling a lot, it was a hard read for sure. Both men went through something so bad but different it’ll pull your heart out and break… My heart goes out to Lincoln and Theo, lots of hugs too. I’m so glad they found each other and can finally find the happiness they both deserved. It was great to read more on the other couples from previous books. Can’t Wait for Riley’s story!
July 7, 2023
I'm so excited to be back in pelican Bay Lincoln and theo were such amazing incredible characters with alot of secrets
chasing secrets was emotional heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time I completely fell in love with them
as always sloane Kennedy did not disapoint
chasing secrets was emotional heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time I completely fell in love with them
as always sloane Kennedy did not disapoint
October 28, 2023
I just finished reading "Chasing Secrets," which is the fifth book in the Pelican Bay series by Sloane Kennedy, and I have to say, I'm left deeply perplexed. Throughout this entire book, I found it to be disjointed and confusing, leaving me with countless unanswered questions. I'm not sure if this is the last book in the series or if there's more to come, possibly Riley's book, but let's talk about this one.
In "Chasing Secrets," we have Lincoln and Theo as the main characters. While we get to see Lincoln in previous books, we really don't know much about him. And as for Theo, we've caught glimpses of him in book three and four. He went through a traumatic experience, subjected to conversion therapy at a young age. However, the story doesn't quite add up as he spent an unusually long three years in this conversion therapy, which is puzzling in itself.
The major problem with this book is the overwhelming amount of trauma both characters endure. It feels like an excessive dumping of trauma and pain, creating characters who are essentially tortured souls. There's no relief or levity in this book, and it left me longing for something to hold onto.
What makes it worse is that we barely even get to see Newton in this book, the little kid we've come to adore from the previous books. Much like the previous book, this one also adheres to the Sloan Kennedy formula, and it felt like a tough and uncomfortable read.
The narrative features an instant and unexplained love between the characters, similar to book four, which leaves me wondering why these two characters are drawn together or what they like about each other. Sloan Kennedy's characters often seem to read each other's minds, and it comes across as lazy writing, a device that has never particularly appealed to me.
Throughout the book, there's a lot of miscommunication and moments where the characters don't understand each other's feelings, leading to dramatic exits and arguments. These difficulties are magically resolved through physical intimacy, which doesn't feel authentic.
The book is intense, with Theo's conversion therapy background being incredibly distressing and Lincoln's history involving assisted suicide being equally bleak. There's no room for romance in this story, and it feels like a relentless emotional onslaught.
One of the aspects that troubled me was how Theo, as a teenager in the conversion therapy, repeatedly stated that he was gay without attempting to protect himself. It feels unrealistic that he wouldn't try to hide his true identity to escape such a horrifying situation. Also, the circumstances surrounding his release from the facility and the subsequent interactions with his family are not convincing.
There's no genuine connection between Theo and Lincoln, and the book left me feeling unsatisfied. I can't help but give this book one star. It was an arduous read, and nothing seemed to make sense. It's disheartening to say this, but this book simply didn't meet the standards I expected from Sloane Kennedy.
The epilogue left me utterly bewildered. Instead of the expected happy ending, we're hit with yet another shocking confession from Theo. Frankly, this plot twist makes no sense and feels out of place in the story. According to the epilogue, Theo apparently did porn. This revelation left me scratching my head. How is it possible that he struggled to let Lincoln touch him intimately, yet he was involved in the adult film industry? It doesn't align with the rest of the narrative and feels like an unnecessary addition. I'm left wondering about the purpose of this confession and epilogue, and it's genuinely frustrating.
In "Chasing Secrets," we have Lincoln and Theo as the main characters. While we get to see Lincoln in previous books, we really don't know much about him. And as for Theo, we've caught glimpses of him in book three and four. He went through a traumatic experience, subjected to conversion therapy at a young age. However, the story doesn't quite add up as he spent an unusually long three years in this conversion therapy, which is puzzling in itself.
The major problem with this book is the overwhelming amount of trauma both characters endure. It feels like an excessive dumping of trauma and pain, creating characters who are essentially tortured souls. There's no relief or levity in this book, and it left me longing for something to hold onto.
What makes it worse is that we barely even get to see Newton in this book, the little kid we've come to adore from the previous books. Much like the previous book, this one also adheres to the Sloan Kennedy formula, and it felt like a tough and uncomfortable read.
The narrative features an instant and unexplained love between the characters, similar to book four, which leaves me wondering why these two characters are drawn together or what they like about each other. Sloan Kennedy's characters often seem to read each other's minds, and it comes across as lazy writing, a device that has never particularly appealed to me.
Throughout the book, there's a lot of miscommunication and moments where the characters don't understand each other's feelings, leading to dramatic exits and arguments. These difficulties are magically resolved through physical intimacy, which doesn't feel authentic.
The book is intense, with Theo's conversion therapy background being incredibly distressing and Lincoln's history involving assisted suicide being equally bleak. There's no room for romance in this story, and it feels like a relentless emotional onslaught.
One of the aspects that troubled me was how Theo, as a teenager in the conversion therapy, repeatedly stated that he was gay without attempting to protect himself. It feels unrealistic that he wouldn't try to hide his true identity to escape such a horrifying situation. Also, the circumstances surrounding his release from the facility and the subsequent interactions with his family are not convincing.
There's no genuine connection between Theo and Lincoln, and the book left me feeling unsatisfied. I can't help but give this book one star. It was an arduous read, and nothing seemed to make sense. It's disheartening to say this, but this book simply didn't meet the standards I expected from Sloane Kennedy.
The epilogue left me utterly bewildered. Instead of the expected happy ending, we're hit with yet another shocking confession from Theo. Frankly, this plot twist makes no sense and feels out of place in the story. According to the epilogue, Theo apparently did porn. This revelation left me scratching my head. How is it possible that he struggled to let Lincoln touch him intimately, yet he was involved in the adult film industry? It doesn't align with the rest of the narrative and feels like an unnecessary addition. I'm left wondering about the purpose of this confession and epilogue, and it's genuinely frustrating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2023
3.5 stars
These two guys secrets are basically killing them from the inside. But they try to put on a good face, sothat most people don’t see the depths of their pain. Theo and is old friend Ford shared a teenage traumatic event, but Theo got the worst repercussions. He is so broken and so full of pain that the only way to cope with it causes more pain.
Lincoln seems like he’s well-adjusted, and he takes care of those around him, but he feels guilt and like a failure during a time in his past when it mattered most.
These two find each other in extreme circumstances and bond quickly even though Theo fights connections as best as he can. But as they start sharing their secrets, their connection just seems to grow. But Theo can’t see past his pain toward any kind of future. And Lincoln feelss that he’s probably not good enough to hold onto one.
This installment is heartbreaking. I felt terrible for both of these two and how traumatized they were by what they’ve been through. There’s a whole group wanting to make them part of their family, but they have walls up and are scared to hope that there is a future where they can look past the hurt and actually latch onto the idea of home, healing, and building a future.
I felt like the author spent a lot of time building up the secrets, trauma, and pain. It is not an easy book to read and there is a feel of hopelessness and heartache about so much of it. But it seemed like the last part of the book was rushed and so much of the big parts of their healing and moving forward were glossed over or even off-page. It seemed like one thing in particular was just going to be this big barrier and hard to get past, but then all of a sudden it was not. We never saw how they worked through some of it. So it kind of felt like the first and second parts of the book were not meshing in depth and details.
These two guys secrets are basically killing them from the inside. But they try to put on a good face, sothat most people don’t see the depths of their pain. Theo and is old friend Ford shared a teenage traumatic event, but Theo got the worst repercussions. He is so broken and so full of pain that the only way to cope with it causes more pain.
Lincoln seems like he’s well-adjusted, and he takes care of those around him, but he feels guilt and like a failure during a time in his past when it mattered most.
These two find each other in extreme circumstances and bond quickly even though Theo fights connections as best as he can. But as they start sharing their secrets, their connection just seems to grow. But Theo can’t see past his pain toward any kind of future. And Lincoln feelss that he’s probably not good enough to hold onto one.
This installment is heartbreaking. I felt terrible for both of these two and how traumatized they were by what they’ve been through. There’s a whole group wanting to make them part of their family, but they have walls up and are scared to hope that there is a future where they can look past the hurt and actually latch onto the idea of home, healing, and building a future.
I felt like the author spent a lot of time building up the secrets, trauma, and pain. It is not an easy book to read and there is a feel of hopelessness and heartache about so much of it. But it seemed like the last part of the book was rushed and so much of the big parts of their healing and moving forward were glossed over or even off-page. It seemed like one thing in particular was just going to be this big barrier and hard to get past, but then all of a sudden it was not. We never saw how they worked through some of it. So it kind of felt like the first and second parts of the book were not meshing in depth and details.
June 22, 2024
THIS ISN'T THE END OF THE SERIES LIKE I THOUGHT IT WAS WHEWWWWWW WHAT GOOD NEWS! I came to Kindle Unlimited because life is hard and I fell deep into low angst romances, but every so often I need some high angst or some dark romance to keep things interesting, and this has been my favorite high angst series, I feel for every one of these MCs so much (even if I'm not sure I could ever read books 3-5 again, they got me fucked up for a while).
I loved Lincoln's emotional journey, his I could read over and over. But Theo??? Survived three years in a conversion camp Theo? Not sure I can ever go through that again. But with that said, it was done so well and I found a lot of peace in his slow healing and being willing to find trust and community and joy in his sexuality again. It will absolutely be staying with me.
My one complaint about the epilogue is Just my thoughts.
I loved Lincoln's emotional journey, his I could read over and over. But Theo??? Survived three years in a conversion camp Theo? Not sure I can ever go through that again. But with that said, it was done so well and I found a lot of peace in his slow healing and being willing to find trust and community and joy in his sexuality again. It will absolutely be staying with me.
My one complaint about the epilogue is Just my thoughts.
July 27, 2023
Enjoyable
It’d been a while for me since reading the previous Pelican Bay books but it didn’t take much for the familiar characters and previous storylines to come back to me.
It was great to read more about Cam & Ford, Maddox, Isaac & Newt, Sawyer.. everyone really.. but this story was all Theo and Lincoln’s!
Theo was a tormented and troubled guy and my heart really went out to him, he needed Lincoln, but they needed each other really.
Both men had secrets, both men were ready to start moving forward in their lives.
I’m really glad they found one another!
~
Extra review (the negatives)
I’m reluctant to criticise a book that ticks a lot of my ‘good read’ boxes, but there are a couple of things about Sloane Kennedy books that have begun to really bug me..
She’s at risk of overusing “the younger man” phrase. It bugs me every time I read it. I think because it always seems voiced with an air of seniority or superiority by one of the MC’s towards the other, i feel like it throws the power balance off between them. If it was used in a kinky way that’d be different, but this book wasn’t kinky so it didn’t fit.
The other thing that frustrates me is that her traumatised MC’s always seems to make such a fast recovery. One minute they’re recoiling from any form of physical touch, the next they’re delving straight into sexual gratification. It’s like the trauma is almost set aside so the happy ending can be rushed. So much work goes into the story setup and then the book hits 80% and boom! It’s HEA time.
It’d been a while for me since reading the previous Pelican Bay books but it didn’t take much for the familiar characters and previous storylines to come back to me.
It was great to read more about Cam & Ford, Maddox, Isaac & Newt, Sawyer.. everyone really.. but this story was all Theo and Lincoln’s!
Theo was a tormented and troubled guy and my heart really went out to him, he needed Lincoln, but they needed each other really.
Both men had secrets, both men were ready to start moving forward in their lives.
I’m really glad they found one another!
~
Extra review (the negatives)
I’m reluctant to criticise a book that ticks a lot of my ‘good read’ boxes, but there are a couple of things about Sloane Kennedy books that have begun to really bug me..
She’s at risk of overusing “the younger man” phrase. It bugs me every time I read it. I think because it always seems voiced with an air of seniority or superiority by one of the MC’s towards the other, i feel like it throws the power balance off between them. If it was used in a kinky way that’d be different, but this book wasn’t kinky so it didn’t fit.
The other thing that frustrates me is that her traumatised MC’s always seems to make such a fast recovery. One minute they’re recoiling from any form of physical touch, the next they’re delving straight into sexual gratification. It’s like the trauma is almost set aside so the happy ending can be rushed. So much work goes into the story setup and then the book hits 80% and boom! It’s HEA time.
August 31, 2024
Theo was Ford's best friend as kids/teens the day they were caught together changed all that. Neither had a good life after that until Ford got Cam in his life and now Theo gets his saving. he went through so much horrible things that were different than Ford. Conversion camp that was torture for him. He keeps that secret for a while. (Sloane has at the end of the book about someone who actually had to endure that horribleness)
Linc(oln) is Walter's nurse and he has his secrets too. The fact that he gave his brother a peaceful death after suffering from a nerve disease that was slowly causing him to die in agony. He tells that to Theo. He also takes care of Theo when he's first there sick after he cut himself too deep. Theo uses it to cope, but he finds better ways throughout the book with getting friends and Linc. It goes with Theo's need to feel pain. It does take him time to come to grips with his past. It takes months before Theo can even think of sex with Linc because of the torture he suffered.
It was for sure not light read and sucks donkey balls on what happened to Theo. (Also to the people that really went through things like this and possibly still do.) There were good things too like Nacho and his pups. They took Chip.
We see what went down with Sawyer's ex through Theo and Linc's eyes. Forgot Linc was military at first. Walter is a trip for sure and love his man. This was hard at times, but sweet how they became a couple.
I can't wait for when Riley gets his book.
Linc(oln) is Walter's nurse and he has his secrets too. The fact that he gave his brother a peaceful death after suffering from a nerve disease that was slowly causing him to die in agony. He tells that to Theo. He also takes care of Theo when he's first there sick after he cut himself too deep. Theo uses it to cope, but he finds better ways throughout the book with getting friends and Linc. It goes with Theo's need to feel pain. It does take him time to come to grips with his past. It takes months before Theo can even think of sex with Linc because of the torture he suffered.
It was for sure not light read and sucks donkey balls on what happened to Theo. (Also to the people that really went through things like this and possibly still do.) There were good things too like Nacho and his pups. They took Chip.
We see what went down with Sawyer's ex through Theo and Linc's eyes. Forgot Linc was military at first. Walter is a trip for sure and love his man. This was hard at times, but sweet how they became a couple.
I can't wait for when Riley gets his book.
July 6, 2023
So happy to be back in Pelican Bay! But holy heartbreak people! Double whammy!
Lincoln and Theo both have their secrets that they're determined to keep to themselves. Both wear masks covering the pain in their hearts but their meeting starts to unravel both of their tightly held facade.
Goodness me, my heart just shattered for these guys. Both of them were damaged almost beyond repair. All the way through this story i was tense and on edge, but the beautiful relationship they develop makes it all worthwhile.
Theo is so innocent even after all hes been through, but he can't deny his feelings for Lincoln. He's so hard on himself he often couldn't see how that effected the people around him. He needed Lincoln to be calm when he couldn't be.
Lincoln was carrying his own baggage but he's so strong he just never gave up on Theo even when he was pushed away, again and again. He never gave up and i just loved and admired him for that. His story is really hard too. When he shared with Theo i had tears in my eyes.
Such an emotional book but so wonderful too. These are such a special couple that i know i'll be thinking about them for a while to come.
I loved seeing all the previous couples, its great to see them all happy! I can't wait for Rileys book!! Hopefully we'll catch up with these two in that.
Fantastic as always!
Lincoln and Theo both have their secrets that they're determined to keep to themselves. Both wear masks covering the pain in their hearts but their meeting starts to unravel both of their tightly held facade.
Goodness me, my heart just shattered for these guys. Both of them were damaged almost beyond repair. All the way through this story i was tense and on edge, but the beautiful relationship they develop makes it all worthwhile.
Theo is so innocent even after all hes been through, but he can't deny his feelings for Lincoln. He's so hard on himself he often couldn't see how that effected the people around him. He needed Lincoln to be calm when he couldn't be.
Lincoln was carrying his own baggage but he's so strong he just never gave up on Theo even when he was pushed away, again and again. He never gave up and i just loved and admired him for that. His story is really hard too. When he shared with Theo i had tears in my eyes.
Such an emotional book but so wonderful too. These are such a special couple that i know i'll be thinking about them for a while to come.
I loved seeing all the previous couples, its great to see them all happy! I can't wait for Rileys book!! Hopefully we'll catch up with these two in that.
Fantastic as always!
July 11, 2023
Warning: This book deals with some pretty heavy topics, and just when you think it's over, Kennedy throws a little more wham bam at you.
Theo, Ford's old friend from childhood, shows up at "the house" for a visit. But Theo is in a BAD way. While Ford was left at the abusive hands of his family after the shed incident, Theo was [redacted for spoilers], and he never really recovered. Life continues to kick Theo, and his mental health can't seem to recover from trauma packed on trauma. He uses masks to hide his true self, and so far, only one person seems to see the real him.
Lincoln is hired on to help old man Walter with his physical therapy. He lives at "the house" so he meets Theo when he arrives. Lincoln knows instantly something is up, but he has his own secrets and past he is running from.
This book was depressing as shit. It was heartfelt and emotional, but topics as heavy as these aren't lighthearted at all.
Go into this expecting trauma and angst. But don't worry, these two fund love in a hopeless place.
I loved seeing the folks from the wildlife sanctuary 💜 overall. I just loved the return of these characters I enjoyed so much.
None of these books are light, but this one felt heavier than the others. Read with care, my friends. And if you haven't read Locked In Silence, book one, I definitely recommend it!
Theo, Ford's old friend from childhood, shows up at "the house" for a visit. But Theo is in a BAD way. While Ford was left at the abusive hands of his family after the shed incident, Theo was [redacted for spoilers], and he never really recovered. Life continues to kick Theo, and his mental health can't seem to recover from trauma packed on trauma. He uses masks to hide his true self, and so far, only one person seems to see the real him.
Lincoln is hired on to help old man Walter with his physical therapy. He lives at "the house" so he meets Theo when he arrives. Lincoln knows instantly something is up, but he has his own secrets and past he is running from.
This book was depressing as shit. It was heartfelt and emotional, but topics as heavy as these aren't lighthearted at all.
Go into this expecting trauma and angst. But don't worry, these two fund love in a hopeless place.
I loved seeing the folks from the wildlife sanctuary 💜 overall. I just loved the return of these characters I enjoyed so much.
None of these books are light, but this one felt heavier than the others. Read with care, my friends. And if you haven't read Locked In Silence, book one, I definitely recommend it!
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