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Our Secret Circle: A Gripping and Suspenseful Thriller
Chandler Grey arrived at the office at 7:45 and went straight to the break room. He lingered as long as possible, waiting for Braydee, but she never came. The words she had spoken to him yesterday sent a shiver down his spine. The pain in her eyes was something he recognized immediately. He had seen that same look in the eyes of his late wife in the months before she committed suicide.
“Help me!”
He went to his computer and began to search the employee data list. There was no one working at the company by the name of Braydee Quinn.
He did a Google search hoping to find a shred of anything that would tell him who she was, and up popped a multitude of news articles that sent shockwaves to his core. This would explain the terror he’d seen in her eyes. Braydee Quinn was a missing person, and people everywhere were looking for her.
When the fingerprints of a local police officer are found in the missing woman’s abandoned car, the small town of Orange Beach, Alabama, explodes with rumors. The officer is forced into hiding for his own protection, and shocking accusations begin to tear a family apart. As the investigation begins to narrow in on a local judge, a horror is revealed that no one saw coming.
“Help me!”
He went to his computer and began to search the employee data list. There was no one working at the company by the name of Braydee Quinn.
He did a Google search hoping to find a shred of anything that would tell him who she was, and up popped a multitude of news articles that sent shockwaves to his core. This would explain the terror he’d seen in her eyes. Braydee Quinn was a missing person, and people everywhere were looking for her.
When the fingerprints of a local police officer are found in the missing woman’s abandoned car, the small town of Orange Beach, Alabama, explodes with rumors. The officer is forced into hiding for his own protection, and shocking accusations begin to tear a family apart. As the investigation begins to narrow in on a local judge, a horror is revealed that no one saw coming.
372 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 18, 2023
9 people are currently reading
2372 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
February 14, 2024
This sucked me in and refused to let go while making me so uncomfortable. It's so more rigid yet so good. Masterful. And the twists were nothing short of shocking. The character development was phenomenal.
February 4, 2024
I had never read anything by Tecia McLaughlin until her book, "The Secret Circle." I won this book from Goodreads, and I'm grateful I had the chance to read it. There are problems in this country that are similar to this. It is splendid to see someone drawing attention to it.
I do not want to give anything away. However, it is a suspenseful crime novel about child trafficking. It isn't of the sex slave ring like most people would think, but it is even more horrific. Through a series of accidents and ignorance, the police conclude that this isn't just a simple kidnapping case. Many people work towards bringing all involved to justice.
It is a difficult read knowing what is going on. Children abused in any way make the book more visceral. The criminal aspect creates a mystery to be solved. You will need to get your thinking caps on between sobs over what happens with the children. The pace is spot on, and the plot is as twisted as the stories of these cases that occurred.
There is a religious element to this with all the prayers and thanks to God for the rescue. There are many triggers in this book. If you have been kidnapped, abused, raped, or anything similar, it might be an impossible read for you. I highly recommend this book to anyone who appreciates this genre.
I do not want to give anything away. However, it is a suspenseful crime novel about child trafficking. It isn't of the sex slave ring like most people would think, but it is even more horrific. Through a series of accidents and ignorance, the police conclude that this isn't just a simple kidnapping case. Many people work towards bringing all involved to justice.
It is a difficult read knowing what is going on. Children abused in any way make the book more visceral. The criminal aspect creates a mystery to be solved. You will need to get your thinking caps on between sobs over what happens with the children. The pace is spot on, and the plot is as twisted as the stories of these cases that occurred.
There is a religious element to this with all the prayers and thanks to God for the rescue. There are many triggers in this book. If you have been kidnapped, abused, raped, or anything similar, it might be an impossible read for you. I highly recommend this book to anyone who appreciates this genre.
January 6, 2024
This book had me from the first page! It was so easy to read and the story grabbed me from the very beginning! I don’t want to ruin any of the details but it was riveting! I was scared and fighting mad all at the same time! Very touchy situations so well described and planned out by this author it makes you think it might just be true! Very suspenseful with moments of the cruelest actions of mankind to the most gentle sweet love. The sad thing is you know somewhere somehow parts of it are true. It was a very good book and I if you like being on the edge of your seat when you read I suggest you get this book!
February 15, 2024
I won this book through a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. Thanks for choosing me.
First and foremost, Tecia McLaughlin you have written an incredible book. You have taken such an awful subject and turned it into an amazing book. The story is phenomenal, Braydee, Chandler and the girls will always live in my soul.
Its important that everyone reads this book. Its a tragic subject, taboo even but it definitely needs to be spoken about. It happens daily to so many people and so many of those victims don't get a happy ending, this book is important because it will get more and more people to open their eyes to the things no one wants to see, to the cruelty that's happening right in front of our noses that most want to pretend isn't really happening. If this book taught me anything, its that we have to be more vigilant and more compassionate.
It is definitely a rollercoaster of emotions and I know these characters and their stories will stay with me for a long time. There were moments where I cried, others when I laughed out loud and others where I felt so much love emanating from every single one of those girls that my soul was happy. Definitely worth the time to read.
First and foremost, Tecia McLaughlin you have written an incredible book. You have taken such an awful subject and turned it into an amazing book. The story is phenomenal, Braydee, Chandler and the girls will always live in my soul.
Its important that everyone reads this book. Its a tragic subject, taboo even but it definitely needs to be spoken about. It happens daily to so many people and so many of those victims don't get a happy ending, this book is important because it will get more and more people to open their eyes to the things no one wants to see, to the cruelty that's happening right in front of our noses that most want to pretend isn't really happening. If this book taught me anything, its that we have to be more vigilant and more compassionate.
It is definitely a rollercoaster of emotions and I know these characters and their stories will stay with me for a long time. There were moments where I cried, others when I laughed out loud and others where I felt so much love emanating from every single one of those girls that my soul was happy. Definitely worth the time to read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2024
Tecia McLaughlin’s “Our Secret Circle” is an exciting and suspenseful novel that keeps readers guessing what is happening until the end. However, from the very first page, the author captivates the reader with an exciting plot that makes you not want to stop reading it.
In the story, Chandler Grey the recently widowed man tormented by his wife’s tragic suicide finds himself entangled in a web of intrigue and danger when he meets the beautiful but enigmatic Braydee Quinn.
One of this book’s most vital points is how the author makes the reader feel tension or uneasiness. The protagonist’s psychological suffering and the morbid atmosphere linked to the investigation render the reader completely tense. Chandler Grey’s involvement with Braydee’s predicament gives greater emotional appeal to the story.
The plot is tightly knit, with every chapter revealing new clues and revelations that drive the story ahead. The author masterfully combines suspense and tempo, thus making sure that the readers are always interested and want to reveal the truth to the protagonists. Surprising twists and turns keep the plot unpredictable; thus, audiences are left guessing details until the last few pages.
In addition, the characters in “Our Secret Circle” are developed and identifiable. The weakness and resilience of Chandler Grey make him a worthwhile protagonist, while the company of the secondary cast enriches the story in the form of added complexities. The author delves into the issues of regret, regret, and the consequences of lying, contributing to the pathos of the entire story.
However, the book has one minor flaw: more clarity in some plot points. Some aspects could have been discussed more or clarified significantly on the participation of the local judge. Furthermore, some minor characters might have received more attention, allowing for more excellent character development.
In general, Our Secret Circle is an exciting thriller for the fans of the genre. Chandler Grey’s search for answers is gripping throughout, and what he eventually finds is simply stunning. With its sophisticated sense of suspense, compelling characters, and surprises at every turn, this novel will capture readers’ attention throughout. “Our Secret Circle” is an absolute knockout for any reader who craves a fresh and stimulating murder mystery. I highly recommend this book; I loved it!
Thank you to The Native Publishers, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.
In the story, Chandler Grey the recently widowed man tormented by his wife’s tragic suicide finds himself entangled in a web of intrigue and danger when he meets the beautiful but enigmatic Braydee Quinn.
One of this book’s most vital points is how the author makes the reader feel tension or uneasiness. The protagonist’s psychological suffering and the morbid atmosphere linked to the investigation render the reader completely tense. Chandler Grey’s involvement with Braydee’s predicament gives greater emotional appeal to the story.
The plot is tightly knit, with every chapter revealing new clues and revelations that drive the story ahead. The author masterfully combines suspense and tempo, thus making sure that the readers are always interested and want to reveal the truth to the protagonists. Surprising twists and turns keep the plot unpredictable; thus, audiences are left guessing details until the last few pages.
In addition, the characters in “Our Secret Circle” are developed and identifiable. The weakness and resilience of Chandler Grey make him a worthwhile protagonist, while the company of the secondary cast enriches the story in the form of added complexities. The author delves into the issues of regret, regret, and the consequences of lying, contributing to the pathos of the entire story.
However, the book has one minor flaw: more clarity in some plot points. Some aspects could have been discussed more or clarified significantly on the participation of the local judge. Furthermore, some minor characters might have received more attention, allowing for more excellent character development.
In general, Our Secret Circle is an exciting thriller for the fans of the genre. Chandler Grey’s search for answers is gripping throughout, and what he eventually finds is simply stunning. With its sophisticated sense of suspense, compelling characters, and surprises at every turn, this novel will capture readers’ attention throughout. “Our Secret Circle” is an absolute knockout for any reader who craves a fresh and stimulating murder mystery. I highly recommend this book; I loved it!
Thank you to The Native Publishers, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.
June 18, 2024
Tecia McLaughlin's "Our Secret Circle" is a captivating exploration of friendship, loyalty, and the bonds that tie us together. The story delves into the lives of a close-knit group of friends who navigate life's challenges and triumphs, always finding strength in their shared connection.
McLaughlin's writing is both heartfelt and engaging, drawing readers into the intimate world of her characters. Each member of the circle is vividly portrayed, their unique personalities and stories intertwining to create a rich tapestry of human experience. The narrative seamlessly blends moments of joy and sorrow, capturing the essence of true friendship.
What makes "Our Secret Circle" particularly compelling is its relatable portrayal of the ups and downs of life. McLaughlin's characters face real-world issues with grace and resilience, reminding readers of the importance of support and understanding in our own lives. The book is a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the comfort it brings during times of hardship.
Overall, "Our Secret Circle" is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that celebrates the unbreakable bonds of friendship. Tecia McLaughlin has crafted a touching and memorable story that will stay with readers long after they turn the final page.
McLaughlin's writing is both heartfelt and engaging, drawing readers into the intimate world of her characters. Each member of the circle is vividly portrayed, their unique personalities and stories intertwining to create a rich tapestry of human experience. The narrative seamlessly blends moments of joy and sorrow, capturing the essence of true friendship.
What makes "Our Secret Circle" particularly compelling is its relatable portrayal of the ups and downs of life. McLaughlin's characters face real-world issues with grace and resilience, reminding readers of the importance of support and understanding in our own lives. The book is a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the comfort it brings during times of hardship.
Overall, "Our Secret Circle" is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that celebrates the unbreakable bonds of friendship. Tecia McLaughlin has crafted a touching and memorable story that will stay with readers long after they turn the final page.
April 12, 2024
This book is great! The ending is phenomenal and doesn’t leave you hanging! I can’t wait to read more of this author’s books!
March 24, 2024
Our Secret Circle is a dark and disturbing novel about human trafficking. Told in a way where it can only consume, grip and make you realize how much of an issue this actually is. How powerful people get away with such hateful crimes. I absolutely love that the author brought attention to this subject, how well she executed it and made me feel deeply for all these girls. Please check your trigger warnings !
I thought it was so well described, so vivid. I absolutely loved Braydee, her resilience and strength. She was absolutely magnificent. As much as this is a hard story to hear, the overall message was so well conveyed by the author. I was on the edge of my seat, I was nervous, I was emotional, I was mad, I truly felt it all.
I truly loved this book and the message it conveys. How to stay aware of your surroundings, watch for signs in people around you showing you they're unsafe. I also love that there's 10% of proceeds of this book going to lock up sex predators and help fund the rescue of sex slaves in the USA. Just read it ! It's worth it.
✨️ Thank you to @netgalley, @thenativepublishers & @teciamclaughlin for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I thought it was so well described, so vivid. I absolutely loved Braydee, her resilience and strength. She was absolutely magnificent. As much as this is a hard story to hear, the overall message was so well conveyed by the author. I was on the edge of my seat, I was nervous, I was emotional, I was mad, I truly felt it all.
I truly loved this book and the message it conveys. How to stay aware of your surroundings, watch for signs in people around you showing you they're unsafe. I also love that there's 10% of proceeds of this book going to lock up sex predators and help fund the rescue of sex slaves in the USA. Just read it ! It's worth it.
✨️ Thank you to @netgalley, @thenativepublishers & @teciamclaughlin for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 8, 2024
This book grabbed me and never let go! The scandal and corruption are so widespread in this book that it's disgusting. The faith of the victims is so inspiring! I felt all the feels, good & bad, while reading "Our Secret Circle".
This book had a lot of players, and I don't want to give anything away by accident by saying more. I gave it 5⭐️.
I will say that if you are triggered easily, this book may not be for you. While the scenes aren't very graphic, this book deals with the tough issue of human trafficking.
I won this book from Goodreads. I would like to thank the author, Tecia Mclaughlin, and Goodreads for the opportunity to read it.
This book had a lot of players, and I don't want to give anything away by accident by saying more. I gave it 5⭐️.
I will say that if you are triggered easily, this book may not be for you. While the scenes aren't very graphic, this book deals with the tough issue of human trafficking.
I won this book from Goodreads. I would like to thank the author, Tecia Mclaughlin, and Goodreads for the opportunity to read it.
January 27, 2024
This book is such a suspenseful read. It will keep you on the edge of your seat wondering what's gonna happen when you turn the page. I highly recommend this book. I hope this author will have another book out soon
August 14, 2025
COULD NOT PUT THIS BOOK DOWN!!! Absolutely hooked from the very first chapter. Cannot wait to read more from her.
January 3, 2025
This is NOT a DNF. This is a CNF as in Can Not Finish. 😣😭
This book is a mother’s worst nightmare. I made it to page 80 before I gave myself permission to stop scaring myself. Mom anxiety on 10000000%
That being said, this is amazing writing. Almost too amazing, hence my need to stop.
I wish I could be stronger to see this one to its end.
This book is a mother’s worst nightmare. I made it to page 80 before I gave myself permission to stop scaring myself. Mom anxiety on 10000000%
That being said, this is amazing writing. Almost too amazing, hence my need to stop.
I wish I could be stronger to see this one to its end.
February 4, 2024
#goodreadsgiveaway
Make sure you have a box of Kleenex on hand for this one, you will definitely need it. If you have any triggers I would advise you to see if there is a list. However, it does have a happy ending, and it's a great story if you can push past them.
Make sure you have a box of Kleenex on hand for this one, you will definitely need it. If you have any triggers I would advise you to see if there is a list. However, it does have a happy ending, and it's a great story if you can push past them.
April 17, 2024
𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗿𝗲𝘁 𝗖𝗶𝗿𝗰𝗹𝗲 𝗯𝘆 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮 𝗠𝗰𝗟𝗮𝘂𝗴𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗻
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5/5
‼️Make sure to check trigger warnings‼️
I was planning on rating this a 4.5 because there are soooooo many formatting, editing, and grammatical errors, but the story itself is a rather good one, so I decided to give it a five because the story deserves that. I felt every emotion while reading this, there were parts where I laughed and smiled, there were many parts that made me absolutely furious, but there were even a few that made me cry. Human trafficking is an epidemic but it’s not talked about nearly enough.
𝘉𝘓𝘜𝘙𝘉:
Chandler Grey arrived at the office at 7:45 and went straight to the break room. He lingered as long as possible, waiting for Braydee, but she never came. The words she had spoken to him yesterday sent a shiver down his spine. The pain in her eyes was something he recognized immediately. He had seen that same look in the eyes of his late wife in the months before she committed suicide.
“Help me!”
He went to his computer and began to search the employee data list. There was no one working at the company by the name of Braydee Quinn.
He did a Google search hoping to find a shred of anything that would tell him who she was, and up popped a multitude of news articles that sent shockwaves to his core. This would explain the terror he’d seen in her eyes. Braydee Quinn was a missing person, and people everywhere were looking for her.
When the fingerprints of a local police officer are found in the missing woman’s abandoned car, the small town of Orange Beach, Alabama, explodes with rumors. The officer is forced into hiding for his own protection, and shocking accusations begin to tear a family apart. As the investigation begins to narrow in on a local judge, a horror is revealed that no one saw coming.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5/5
‼️Make sure to check trigger warnings‼️
I was planning on rating this a 4.5 because there are soooooo many formatting, editing, and grammatical errors, but the story itself is a rather good one, so I decided to give it a five because the story deserves that. I felt every emotion while reading this, there were parts where I laughed and smiled, there were many parts that made me absolutely furious, but there were even a few that made me cry. Human trafficking is an epidemic but it’s not talked about nearly enough.
𝘉𝘓𝘜𝘙𝘉:
Chandler Grey arrived at the office at 7:45 and went straight to the break room. He lingered as long as possible, waiting for Braydee, but she never came. The words she had spoken to him yesterday sent a shiver down his spine. The pain in her eyes was something he recognized immediately. He had seen that same look in the eyes of his late wife in the months before she committed suicide.
“Help me!”
He went to his computer and began to search the employee data list. There was no one working at the company by the name of Braydee Quinn.
He did a Google search hoping to find a shred of anything that would tell him who she was, and up popped a multitude of news articles that sent shockwaves to his core. This would explain the terror he’d seen in her eyes. Braydee Quinn was a missing person, and people everywhere were looking for her.
When the fingerprints of a local police officer are found in the missing woman’s abandoned car, the small town of Orange Beach, Alabama, explodes with rumors. The officer is forced into hiding for his own protection, and shocking accusations begin to tear a family apart. As the investigation begins to narrow in on a local judge, a horror is revealed that no one saw coming.
January 16, 2024
Hold onto your detective hats, folks, because Our Secret Circle is the thriller that'll have you screaming, "Plot twist!" Picture this: Chandler Grey's day goes from 0 to 100 real quick when he finds out his coworker Braydee is a legit missing person. Cue the suspenseful music, people! As Chandler digs into the mystery, it's like uncovering a Pandora's box of secrets in the seemingly peaceful Orange Beach, Alabama. And guess what? The plot thickens with a local cop's fingerprints in Braydee's ride – drama alert! The town explodes with rumors, and suddenly, everyone's a suspect. It's like a real-life crime podcast, but in book form. Our Secret Circle isn't your run-of-the-mill thriller; it's a wild ride of accusations, hidden horrors, and jaw-dropping revelations. So, why should you read it? Because if you're not into heart-pounding suspense and unexpected twists, you're missing out on the thriller of the year!
January 17, 2024
A gripping thriller that hooks readers from the very first page. Chandler Grey's seemingly routine day takes a dark turn when he discovers that Braydee, a colleague he thought he knew, is a missing person. The suspense builds as Chandler unravels the mystery, facing shocking revelations about the people around him. The author skillfully weaves a tale of suspense and intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The small town of Orange Beach, Alabama, becomes a backdrop for a web of secrets, accusations, and unexpected horrors. As the investigation unfolds, the story explores the complexity of relationships and the hidden darkness that can exist within a community. Our Secret Circle is a great read for thriller enthusiasts, offering a rollercoaster of emotions and an unexpected twist that will leave readers stunned.
January 23, 2024
How did I forget to review this?! This was sheer perfection! One of the few books I've read where I was completely clueless throughout. The writing is engaging and I was drawn in straight away. The characters are well written and original. The twists were......*chefs kiss*..... absolutely masterful! And It was just the most ride to be part of. Its one of those books that you can easily imagine being made into a netflix 8 part series and binge watching over a quiet weekend. A must read
June 25, 2024
This was such an awesome book! I loved the twists and turns and how the easy to follow subplots came together. I did get to a point where I couldn't believe the book was still going, but not in a bad way. I just thought it could have ended nicely a while before it did, but I appreciated the continuation of the story. Such a good book!
September 25, 2025
Heartbreaking and inspiring
This is a great read about a horrible situation that is all too real in our country. Our heroine finds the strength to save her self and several children from the awful fate of those who are victims of human trafficking. The story moves well and always keeps you hungry for the next page.
This is a great read about a horrible situation that is all too real in our country. Our heroine finds the strength to save her self and several children from the awful fate of those who are victims of human trafficking. The story moves well and always keeps you hungry for the next page.
August 11, 2025
Somewhat captivating but very amateurish writing style and plot. So ridiculous. And the Bible references were not necessary.
August 31, 2024
This was a Goodreads Giveaway win. It was okay but not great. Parts of the story didn’t really line up and it didn’t feel believable. Seemed amateurish.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews