Framed

Framed Trilogy #1

by Marilyn Don

Framed has been completely revised, expanded, and will be re-released under a new title:

Framed by Silence on August 14th!

Genres: Dark Romance, Slow Burn, Enemies To Lovers, Romantic Suspense, Mystery, Contemporary, Romance

260 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 4, 2023

About the author

Marilyn Don writes romance for the daydreamers and trope-lovers who crave a little chaos with their love stories. When she's not writing, she's either working her 9 to 5, trying to finish her own degree, or chasing her four-going-on-forty-year-old around Atlanta. She enjoys reading way past midnight, watching an emotional anime, and rewatching her favorite comfort shows.

Reviews

[Victoria Franklin · Rating 4 out of 5]

My second Marilyn Don book, and she did not disappoint!

Scarlett starts receiving mysterious letters that she feels compelled to follow until one leads her straight to her best friend’s body. Suddenly, she’s framed for murder and sentenced to life in prison.

Four years into her sentence, she’s told she has to leave. Someone else is under investigation, and staying locked up could put her life in danger. Forced to take on a new identity, Scarlett tries to stay hidden… but Xavier, her ex-boyfriend and her best friend’s brother, notices her right away.

What follows is more than just a reunion there’s a secret society at play, one Scarlett barely understands, and Xavier’s watchful eye may be the only thing keeping her safe.

The suspense was edge of your seat fantastic. The romance burned slowly but deliciously, and the tension between Scarlett and Xavier was everything. When the spice finally came? Perfection. 🥵🤭

Highly recommend this read!

Tropes
✨Dark Romance
✨Suspense
✨Secret Society
✨Dark Academia
✨Second Chance
✨Slow Burn

[thriftlibreads · Rating 3 out of 5]

“You’ve got that look.” “What look?” “The one people get right before they either break or burn the place down.”

Thank you to the author for the ARC opportunity for Framed by Silence. I was really excited for this due to the tropes, I’ve been wanting to look into dark academia for a while. However, I think the story left me with more questions. The story revolves around Scarlett(FMC) who was put in prison after being framed for the murder of her best friend Naomi. After 4 years she is temporarily let go because there’s new evidence suggestion someone else is the killer. Scarlett is placed at uni under a new identity. Here she crosses paths with Xavier, Naomi’s brother, who Scarlett has some history with. During her time at uni she begins to receive anonymous “threats” and directions to locations to visit where she unintentionally unveils secrets from those around her. I wish we were given more information about the secret society aspect working behind the scenes and what makes Scarlett such a threat to them. Guess we’ll have to find out in book two.

[Alexia D'Ambrosio · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 ⭐️

I ate this book up!! The mystery, the tension, the angst, uhhhhh so good!! I absolutely love Xavier & Scarlett & am rooting for them so hard!! The letters from Xavier - I. am. SWOONING!! Also the spice is most definitely spicing!! 🤭🥵 I have so many questions, & trust literally no one, & that plot twist at the end, the cliffhanger, JAILTIME!! I need the next book immediately!! I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the rest of the series & for some of my questions to be answered!! If you are looking for a broody/possessive MMC who stalks her, second chance romance, touch her and die, a secret society and a murder mystery, you def need to read this book!! I would 10/10 def recommend reading this book!! 😆

Thank you so much for giving me an ARC of the book, I had a great time reading it & cant wait to read more book by this author!! & I definitely can’t wait to read the next book in this series!! I greatly appreciate the opportunity!! 🥰💖

[Samantha Marshall · Rating 4 out of 5]

**This is an ARC review. I am not being compensated in any way or form for this review. It is 100% my own opinion. **

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶.5/5
This was FANTASTIC. I love a good mix of mystery, dark romance, stalker vibes, touch her and 💀, secret society, and a second chance at love.

Scarlett and Xavier need a damn break! I need them to get their HEA. Marilyn... ma'am.... this book had me in a vice from the start.

The writing and plot suck you in and hold you hostage until the bitter end, which is pretty freaking bitter considering the cliffhanger that it ends on! I need the next installment of this trilogy right meow!
Framed By Silence releases on 8/14!! You are gonna want to check it out I promise!!

[Kaylie Jade · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book left me with more questions than answers. I found myself second guessing every character whilst loving the intrigue. I couldn't trust anyone or anything. 

By the time my brain half caught up with what was going on, the story took another sharp turn giving me whiplash with the twists and turns. 

The relationships are messy, heartbreaking, wild, endearing and emotional. The spice is minimal but when it finally happens... well, wow! Didn't see the way it happened happening (so vague I know! Spoiler free here ! 😜)

This book felt chaotic to me but in the best way! There was just too much going on to even take a deep breath. 

All I can say is book 2 better not be far off because I NEED to keep reading after that ending !! 

[Ivy-Marie Washington · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have so many questions 😭😭 The suspense in this book will leave you wanting more! This book has all of the perfect elements for a suspenseful dark romance. Angst ✔️ longing ✔️ suspense ✔️ spice ✔️(it is a slow burn) there’s so many opportunities to guess who the villain is and get it wrong!

This book does end on a cliffhanger!!

[Aries.Pisces · Rating 2 out of 5]

Scarlett receives a series of mysterious notes, the following of which leads to her being framed for the murder of her best friend. Although she knows that she didn't kill Naomi, she can't convince anyone of her innocence. Even Xavier, Naomi's brother and the love of Scarlett's life, won't talk to her. But someone out there knows who the killer is. After four years in prison Scarlett is suddenly released and another is arrested for Naomi's death. As Scarlett tries to get on with her new life, a shadow from the past reappears and the notes begin again. The only person Scarlett can trust is the one who lost as much as she did. Together Scarlett and Xavier seek to find who's behind the notes and to find their way back to one another.

While the premise of the story intrigued me, and the author's writing style made for an easy read, the inaccuracies that plot holes made the book unenjoyable. Sadly, a lot of the incorrect details weren't necessary to the story in any way. They didn't add to or further the storyline, but by being there and being incorrect, they totally detracted from the story. The story cried out for an editor. (Granted, many of these things might go right over someone else's head, however, an author never knows who her audience is going to be. Would be best to fact check and make things as correct as possible.)

There was very little actual movement to the story and I kept waiting for one of the (unnecessary) details to lead to something that would have some great impact on the story, or at least justify why the detail was there. That didn't happen.

Marilyn Don has a good writing style and the bones of a really good book. Instead of a trilogy, it would have been lovely to read one excellently crafted story rather than what I suspect will be three mediocre books.

I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lottie Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Disclaimer: Thank you Marilyn Don for providing this ARC of Framed By Silence in exchange for an honest review.

Summary:
Scarlett Rose’s life is shattered by a murder she didn’t commit. After four years in prison, she’s unexpectedly released and determined to reclaim her dreams at university. But someone is still watching her, leaving chilling notes that force her to confront her past. With Xavier Adams—the star quarterback, underground fighter, and half-brother of her late best friend—back in her life, Scarlett is caught between danger, trust, and a charged love triangle that could break her heart or save her life.

Review:
What the heck was that ending?! I need the next book immediately.

I’m still cooling off from the events of the party… I did not expect Xavier to tolerate Zane staying for that, but Scarlett? If I’d been in her position, I might have done the same.

This was my first dark college romance and I only picked it up because the synopsis hooked me—Marilyn delivered and now I’m already impatient for the next two books. The idea of being imprisoned for someone else’s crime, and for the murder of your best friend, is just heartbreaking.

The college setting mixed with a semi-new identity and almost witness-protection vibe felt fresh to me, especially with Scarlett focusing on a law degree while danger still loomed. I’ve come away with a million bloody questions for these characters, but I imagine the answers will come in time.

I’m early to this series, but I’m more than ready for what comes next.

[Raquel Duncombe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is so gripping as it intertwines mystery and emotional complexity in a way that keeps readers at the edge if their seats.

Another member of the brooding MMC's whose nature adds layers of intrigue and complexity to the narrative.

What sets this book apart from the countless other thrillers on the market is its ability to evoke genuine emotion with each plot twist. As I delved deeper into the story, I found myself completely absorbed, my heart poundingly racing with anticipation as every chapter unfolded. The author has masterfully crafted a suspenseful atmosphere, and the pacing is spot-on. At times, I caught myself holding my breath, unsure of what shocking turn of events would emerge next.

Just when I thought I had a grasp on the plot, the narrative veered in unexpected directions, leaving me astounded and eager for more. The buildup of tension and the gradual unraveling of Scarlet's story culminate in a conclusion that is nothing short of heart-stopping. The final twist genuinely left me reeling; I found myself shouting, "What the fuck?!" at the page, caught entirely off guard by the revelations that unfolded.

If you enjoy a captivating blend of mystery, emotional depth, and exhilarating twists, this book deserves a top spot on your reading list.
Prepare yourself for a rollercoaster of emotions, and above all, hold on tight-because this is a journey you won't soon forget! So thankful I got to be chosen as one of the authors arc readers.

[Rebecca Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Framed By Silence is a second chance, slow burn, dark college romance featuring Scarlett Rose/Camillo and Xavier Adams. It is the first book in Don's Framed trilogy.

Scarlett spent 4 years in prison for the murder of her best friend, Naomi Stewart. When new evidence comes to light, she is sent to Fortuna Royal University with a new name and identity. She never expected to cross paths with Xavier, her first love, and Naomi's brother.

Xavier has many regrets but at the top of the list is turning his back on Scarlett, the one who got away. He never believed her to be responsible, but as the Governor's son, and the pressures of society, he was forced to conform. Now that she is no longer behind bars he intends to prove himself to her, and hopes for another chance.

While Scarlett was essentially told to keep her head down, and focus on her studies, the past is coming back to haunt her. In addition to trying to avoid Xavier, mysterious letters show up with veiled threats from someone who knows her past. Little by little she discovers that all is not as it seems and she's determined to uncover the truth.

This book was an unexpected delight. The author did a brilliant job of building the mystery with layers of suspicion and angst, and melding it with a delicious dark romance. The chemistry between our main characters is sizzling. This book had unexpected twists and turns, and a jaw dropping cliffhanger ending. I am sitting on the edge of my seat awaiting the release of the second installment.

Some of my favourite lines:

-A degree and a leash - she needs to be out of sight and compliant... or they'll come for her. Once they do, no one can stop them.

-The trust. The estate. The secrets buried in the legal fine print of the Aurelian name that nobody outside of eight people had access to.

-Power survives in shadow.

-They weren't scared of her because of what she'd done. They were scared because of what she hadn't yet realized she could do. And that terrified them.

This is a new author for me, but based on my first experience, I would welcome the opportunity to explore more of her work. I definitely recommend checking this one out!

[Allyse Reinauer · Rating 3 out of 5]

First review on here; no pressure or anything!
I received an ARC for this book, but the views are my own.

This is a great debut novel and I have to admit I am a little sad it ended on a cliffhanger (ESPECIALLY THAT ONE!) but I’m excited to see what comes next!

This was a quick read, but I would have loved for it to be longer to fill in some of the gaps or go into a little more detail at times. The timeline of the story skipped over weeks in some spots and brought up things like dates that happened outside the storyline that could have been a good way to give some more insight into how Scarlet was adjusting to life on the outside.
If you are looking for some heat, I was expecting a little more from this book based on the description, but didn’t get a taste of that until nearly the end of the book. The main scene was well spicy and written though. It felt a little YA for the first half which could have been because of the setting, but as it progressed it got a little more intense.

I’ll be checking out the next book in the series because I really can’t believe she left me hanging like that!

[Jade Amyotte · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Framed by Silence is a suspenseful dark romance that kept me hooked from start to finish. From the moment Scarlett is wrongfully imprisoned for her best friend Naomi’s murder, the tension never lets up. Four years later, she’s unexpectedly released when new evidence points to another suspect, but freedom doesn’t mean safety. Enter Xavier—Naomi’s brother and Scarlett’s former love—and with him, a dangerous game begins. Mysterious notes, ominous threats, and hidden truths pull Scarlett into a twisted web where trust is a luxury she can’t afford.

This story nails the dark romance vibe
angst ✔
longing ✔
slow-burn spice ✔

And so much suspense that you’ll find yourself trying to guess the villain’s identity more than once. The dark academia setting adds an atmospheric layer, and while I wish we’d gotten a deeper dive into the secret society and why Scarlett poses such a threat, the mystery left me eager for book two.

It’s an addictive mix of romance, danger, and intrigue, with a cliffhanger ending that will have you itching for the next book!

[Kelly-Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was honoured to receive my first ever physical ARC (thank you so so much!). It says I started this on the 18th but in reality I read it all in one day (I read 24 pages on the 18th for context). This book was UNPUTDOWNABLE! I am obsessed and need book 2 immediately.

The characters were great - a great mix in there; you have morally grey, seeming golden retriever, a friend who brings comedic relief, and an FMC who’s pretty cool. My only beef with Scarlett was the fact that she hasn’t realised she’s a badass (until maybe at the party 👀) but maybe that’ll be explored in the other books.

For me, at points the worlds were a bit hard to picture as some of the Chapters seemed a bit internal monologue-y as the characters didn’t interact with the world they were in, but when they did it made it that bit easier to imagine.

I also liked the spice elements - the fact that not every chapter had spice, it was more a yearning until Xavier got his hands on her. Plus Kane being there to watch!? Hot af 🥵

[Michelle Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read by this author and I have to say, overall, it was a very easy and enjoyable book.

I loved Scarlett's character. I enjoyed reading her growth and strength appear the further the book went along. Her confidence in herself was fantastic to read.

Xavier was a pretty good character as well. It was better once we started to get more of the back story for these two as the story progressed. It brought things together more. The puzzle pieces falling into place.

The story was very easy to fall into and get swept away. There were a few error's which I was surprised where not picked up by an editor or beta readers but hey it didn't detract from the story.

I loved the cliff hanger…. NOT lol but it makes me want book 2 like yesterday lol. Can't wait to see where the author takes us next.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sammyll · Rating 5 out of 5]

I looked forward to reviewing this book as I loved the intriguing blurb, Having started reading it lured me in quickly. Scarlett & Xavier have electrifying energy, as he becomes her bodyguard’ after she becomes free from prison for a crime she didn’t commit. He is her half brother and whilst they have always had a connection it soon becomes amplified with sexual tension! He has competition from Kane a teammate. But Xavier isn’t going to be swayed and fights for her attention, but this doesn’t take much as they are continually pushed together when Scarlett becomes a target, from an unknown enemy.
This book is amazing, I cannot recommend it enough. It has suspense, angst and intrigue. I can’t wait for the next book in the series and will definitely keep Marilyn on my radar.

I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dawnmarie Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 1st book in the Framed Trilogy featuring the incredible, intriguing, steamy, suspenseful book full of twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat rapidly turning the pages to see what happens next. From the very first page the drama begins and we're brought along on the thrilling roller-coaster ride of Scarlett and Xavier's lives and the mystery surrounding her circumstances really draws you in. The characters are incredibly fascinating and although this book does end on a cliffhanger so we have to wait for the next book to see what's going to happen. I am looking forward to the next book to see what's going to happen.

I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kimberley Evoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Framed by Silence is a romantic thriller that grabs you by the throat and refuses to let go, twisting you through a web of suspense, secrets, and just the right amount of tension to keep you up all night.

It’s friends-to-enemies-to-lovers done in the most intoxicating way, layered with a dark college mystery and a secret society that delivers more questions than answers but in the best, most addictive way possible. Every chapter pulls you deeper, and the forced proximity and morally gray characters keep the emotional stakes and tension sky high.

A second chance becomes tangled with betrayal, unanswered questions, and a plot that keeps you guessing until the very last page.

The ending? Leaves you aching for the next page, the next book, the next anything in this world.

[Rachael Pearson · Rating 3 out of 5]

An exciting read where I was left constantly wanting to continue to the next chapter and that ending…I hope book 2 is on the horizon soon! Loved this ARC read with all the twists and turns, changing POVs and letters too!

Four years ago, Scarlett was accused of killing one of her closest friends and the half-sister of her secret boyfriend. Since then she has been behind bars, struggling with the loss of her friend and the betrayal of her man and everyone she thought would stand by her. Her teenager years weren’t without challenges, especially when involving her stepmother and step-sister but neither were Xavier’s, the man who still, four years later, still holds her heart.
When she is released, with many strings attached, she finds herself thrown into a world where Xavier is once again present. Can she stay hidden with her dyed hair and contacts? Keeping her past buried and silent? Especially when the ones who set her up seem to be once again leaving dangerous notes behind once again…

This was a book that started out the gate and just kept on giving. I loved the dual POV and the letter style chapters too. The yearning, the angst and the jealousy were so well written and I loved the character of Winter especially, her room-mate turned friend, who was always supporting Scarlett in her own quirky way. Xavier is a dark, morally grey protector and gave me a romance-Xaden type vibe 😍 the spice and slow-burn were well worth the wait too!

Thank you @authormarily for entrusting me with you ARC read and congratulations on the release of your exciting, mystery filled book! I loved it

[Arnela · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book and here’s my honest review: I devoured this dark, twisty second-chance college romance with a secret society at its core. Mystery, betrayal, spice, and an ending that left me dangling off the edge!!! This book had me hooked from the first page to the last.
Xavier is the kind of brooding shadow you know you shouldn’t trust, but can’t resist. Danger wrapped in safety. Scarlett, caught in a web she never asked for, becomes the pawn in a wicked game she doesn’t yet see. The tension builds with every chapter, the questions multiply, and then that scene 👀🔥 … let’s just say my jaw hit the floor.

[Harriet · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the first version of the book and was so excited to receive an ARC for the new version. Marilyn, girl, you really did your thing! Omg I COULDN’T put this book down! AGAIN! So many twists and turns. You really added depth to this. I loved Scarlett and Xavier’s chemistry the first time but the notes? 😘👌🏼 added a perfect touch. I think for there were a lot of questions unanswered but it’s the first in the trilogy, so I expected it. It checked all of the boxes. Sensual ✔️ Angsty ✔️ Mystery ✔️ Give us book two NOW! ❤️

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a toe curling, suspenseful and steamy book that will have you on the edge of your seat wondering what is going to happen next. I was so intrigued by this book that I had to finish it before I could do anything else. I am so excited for the next book, and you should definitely give this author your full attention. :).

I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Britne Light Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book makes you say "what?!"
The letters are a great touch!! Such a fun detail to have letters from the mmc! Helps you feel their connection on a deeper level. The yearning and pinning from the MMC pulled at my heart strings.
The way the book starts and is written is such a different direction from most recent dark romance reads.
The suspense makes you feel like you are unwrapping the mystery with the FMC. The only thing is, I wish that we got more answers. I feel like many questions weren't answered, which is a good lead up to the next book.

[Kelsey Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can’t lie, I was thoroughly confused for the first 35% of this book and almost DNF. It felt like I missed a prequel novella or I missed a prologue or something, like I got dropped into the middle of the plot. But I’m so glad I pushed through, and OMG that ending?! I’m salivating for the next book, I need to know what happens next! Thank you so much to Marilyn Don for allowing me to read and give my feedback.

[Haleigh Beirne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my god. Oh my god. OH MY GOD!!
There’s absolutely no freaking way that happened. I’m so invested right now I could cry. I need book 2 right now 😭
There is so much to this book… I don’t even know where to begin. The chemistry between Scar and Xavier. The hidden secrets, the angst, the THRILL.

I have been waiting for a book like this ever since I finished the L.O.R.D.S. Series by Shantell Tessier and in my opinion this TOPS those books.

I will update more once the release date is here. 🥲🖤

[Kelsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌟 4.75 stars
I’m foaming at the mouth for the rest of the trilogy to come out. I love that we are figuring things out with the FMC but also getting a little insight from the MMC as well. I’m already rooting for them. So many outside sources pulling strings and I cannot wait until Scarlett burns them down with Xavier giving her the match. And that cliffhanger???? Need the next book like I need air!

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has suspense in every word on the page. There are crazy twists and turns culminating in the unimaginable.

Tight writing, good character development, dynamic plot development.

If you're up for major suspense, this is right up your alley.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Alison N · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. First time reading anything by this author. Although the cliffhanger ending is killing me, can't wait for the next installment. I have no clue who is behind it, or who scarlet & xavier can even trust. It's a great story full or mystery, romance, suspense and intrigue.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Auri Powell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I probably would have finished in one sitting if I wasn’t so busy. Really good mystery that we piece together with both MC. A secret society pulling all the strings. Betrayal, grief and a possible second chance at love? the perfect slow burn and spicy dark romance. And the end?! 🤯 talk about cliffhanger…give me book 2 right neoowww!

[Tracey Crawford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great start to the series. Slow burn romance. Excellently written with good flow. Ends on a cliffhanger but so worth it. I cant wait to read more.

I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ann Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was incredible suspenseful and full of twists and turns. I loved the story which had intriguing characters and was full of mystery and sexual tension. Looking forward to the next books.

I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.