The Law of Deceit

Shameful Secrets #4

by K. Webster

He’s a rebellious young man with a lifelong obsession with his mom’s best friend.

He always assumed she’d be nothing more than a fantasy, but he’s not the only one with forbidden feelings…

I’ve loved her for as long as I can remember. She’s my mom’s best friend and a cop. Two reasons why I should stay far, far away from Sloane Thurman. It’s nearly impossible to keep my distance, though. The ache for her rare smiles and her sweet scent is more than I can bear. I’m more than her friend’s son. I want to show her I’m a man now and that I could be her man. My wish becomes a reality when Sloane takes in her nephew. She needs help and I’m just the man to step up. Hikes, coffee dates, and game nights are just the beginning for us. Entertaining the kid in an effort to get closer to her is no hardship. Being near her is the only reward I need. As we spend more time together, I manage to break down her rigid walls. When she’s not worried about her morals and being a good cop, she’s realizing the two of us can have a lot of fun. A good time isn’t all I’m after. If it were up to me, I’d haul her down to the courthouse and make her mine forever. Unfortunately, neither life nor love is that easy. There’s no way my family would understand our relationship. A secret romance will have to do…for now. We may be able to deceive everyone we care about, but one day our shameful secrets will come to light. For Sloane’s sake, I just hope I’m worth the fight…

*** This is a complete M/F standalone novel with a happily ever after. Tropes for this book older woman/younger man age-gap romance, opposites attract, he falls first, coffee lovers, mom’s best friend, romantic suspense, secret romance, and found family. ***

Genres: Romance, M F Romance, New Adult, Romantic Suspense, Slow Burn, Contemporary, Friends To Lovers

294 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 11, 2024

About the author

K Webster is a USA Today Bestselling author. Her titles have claimed many bestseller tags in numerous categories, are translated in multiple languages, and have been adapted into audiobooks. She lives in "Tornado Alley" with her husband, two children, and her baby dog named Blue. When she's not writing, she's reading, drinking copious amounts of coffee, and researching aliens.

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Reviews

[aleksandra]

dnf 30%

I'm done. Another new release that turned out to be a huge letdown for me. This book had such a potential, reverse age-gap, opposite attract, small-town romance? It sounded so good, but reading it felt illegal. It also didn't help that although the writing style was okay, some of the sentences here were quite painful to read.

Let's start with the fact that I knew what I was getting into when I chose to read this story, or at least I knew it partly. I'm talking about the age difference between our main characters, Sloane (36) and Dempsey (18), whose exact ages you find out when you start reading the book because the blurb just says "older woman/younger man age-gap romance". I'm a fan of age-gap romances where the woman is older, although I prefer the hero to be at least twenty, not eighteen like here.. but I was too curious about this book not to at least try it. The second thing I prefer - or more like need - to like this type of story is for the hero to behave maturely, not like a spoiled teenage boy. Dempsey's character could literally be the definition of "spoiled teenage boy." It was honestly painful to read all their dialogues because they had no chemistry and their conversations were just juvenile and boring. The last thing, a rather important thing that has to happen for me to enjoy this trope, is for the characters to meet each other later - when they are older, not like this

"I’m obsessed with her, but she’s completely off-limits.
She was in the room when we were born, babysat us twins on occasion when my parents needed a break, and has been a part of our lives for eighteen years."

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎

I know that this book was supposed to be taboo, like the entire series, but the fact that Sloane was there during Dempsey’s birth is a fact that makes me unable to continue reading it. The way she talked about him also made me feel quite uncomfortable and was one of the main reasons why I dnfed it.

"Plus, despite my confusing attraction toward Dempsey, he’ll always be the little turkey I watched grow up.
Gross.
I feel like some kind of pervert.
That’s how Jamie would see it if I ever allowed anything to happen.
Which I won’t.
I won’t."

I think I'll leave it no comment.

Like I said, I was curious about this book so I wanted to give it a try, but I don't think it’s a story for me.

[Wobilba · Rating 2 out of 5]

1.5 stars

Damn this was terrible 😬
The writing was juvenile, the dialogue cringey asf and the chemistry was never nonexistent.

I deserve an Olympic gold medal for getting through this…truly!

[V · Rating 2 out of 5]

1.5 stars, rounded. This was terrible. The more I continue reading Webster’s works, the more I realize that I’m outgrowing her writing style. The entire book just felt so juvenile, rushed, yet so boring. Dempsey and Sloane were an awful couple, and their chemistry felt so forced. Both characters were pretty unlikable alone as well, which was disappointing considering Dempsey was far more enigmatic and fascinating in previous books. What an unfortunate attempt at a taboo, age gap, bad-boy-good-girl romance.

This is by far one of the worst series by this author. I was interested in Gemma’s story, but I cba anymore. If the tropes are worth it, maybe. If not, there’s no point in me even trying.

[CC · Rating 4 out of 5]

4★



For years, Dempsey Parks only had eyes for Sloane Thurman, his mom’s best friend who happens to be a police officer. Known as the bad boy of the family, Dempsey is used to low expectations but he wants to share much more with the woman of his desires.

“We both have our roles to play. In time, however, I’m going to wear that woman down.”

Narrated in dual POV, the connection between Dempsey and Sloane slowly builds as Dempsey proves himself on multiple occasions. As the taboo nature of their relationship looms, it becomes evident that Dempsey needs to break past the barriers.

Since starting this series, Dempsey has intrigued me and I enjoyed seeing him in a different light, as proved to be quite the catch with his sweet domestic side and his bad boy exterior. Though the taboo element felt a little light to me, it still presented a conflict to be resolved amongst the Park family. Finally, I look forward to the next book in theShameful Secrets series.

The Law of Deceit is about staying true to oneself and family. This book would appeal to those seeking a taboo read with a light crime element.


*An ARC was provided for a review.*


*This was a (F)BR with Twinsie Hawkey*


For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:

[Juju · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

I was so excited to have been chosen to ARC Read/Review another K Webster book. I'm a big fan of her writing. And a big fan of Reverse Age Gap/Forbidden romance. ❤

The cover artwork for this book is perfect. Love it!!!

All books in the Shameful Secrets series are standalone stories. Each book covers a member of the Park Family. This is Dempsey Park's story.

Dempsey is the tattooed, artistically talented, misunderstood bad boy of the Park Family. He's fallen hopelessly in love with an older woman - his mums best friend and small town cop, Sloane Thurman.

There is sweetness, angst, and suspense. It is low steam, with focus on relationship building and family dynamics. I really enjoyed revisiting the Park Family and getting more insight into Sloan's background. An enjoyable read.

I highly recommend checking out this series.

Thank you to Unalive Promotions for providing me with this ARC.

Note:
* I had read 'The Heart of Smoke' (book 3, Jude Park's story) prior to reading this ARC.* if you are wanting to avoid any spoilers, then I suggest starting from Book 1.

[warhawke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Genre: Contemporary Romance
Type: Standalone book 4 of 5 from Shameful Secrets series
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:




Dempsey effortlessly embraced the role of the black sheep in the Park family, but his growing desires for his mother's best friend, Sloane Thurman, promised more trouble than he bargained for.



I was intrigued when I first found out about the relationship dynamic of this book, especially with who she was to the family and the town. I liked how Dempsey took responsibilities for what he wanted, while Sloane learned to put her heart first. Although I anticipated more emotional tension, I found the overall story entertaining.

“Who knew loving someone could be so difficult.”

The Law of Deceit is a story of validation and forbidden desires. It would appeal to readers who enjoy reverse age-gap romance.

Books in the series:






⚜️✖️⚜️. . . (F)BR with Twinsie CC . . . ⚜️✖️⚜️





For more reviews/interviews/book talk/promo visit:



For graphics, trailers & author services visit Warhawke Design Studio.

[D.L. Howe · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️

I don’t read enough reverse age gaps, this is proven by how much I loved this!

Dempsey has been pining for his mother’s best friend, one of the PD’s finest, Sloane. Of course, she has no idea and her feelings are not mutual until about 35% into this beauty when she wakes the f up.

This really is the sweetest story. I love how they both felt like outsiders in their families and they found everything they needed with each other.

The fact that Dempsey is an artist is an added bonus, I love artists, especially one obsessed with one particular muse. I got a major kick out of the art showing, but not as much as when Dempsey blew up and told his family exactly what he’s been up to.

Besides the love story which was totally enough, I was all over the mystery and corruption going down in the police precinct. Lots of red herrings that led us on a merry chase until the very end.

Now the biggest mystery is who our final Park sibling will end up with. Come on, Kristi! I can’t believe you’re holding out on me!!

[NiCoLeTa E. {Addicted To Books} · Rating 4 out of 5]

***4 "Troublemaker!!!" stars***



"I'm obsessed with her, but she's completely off-limits."

I agree with Callum Park, Karma is finally paying a visit to Nathan and Jamie and it will be delivered by Sloane and Dempsey!!!
Yes, I was anticipating Dempsey's turn since the very first moment, since I was enamored with his bad boy persona...
But honestly, Dempsey was a revelation here!!! Him and his story were nothing as I was expecting, but I liked what I finally saw... even though this certain reverse age gap romance felt somehow weird, because of Sloane's status inside the Park family...

"And just like that, I'm reminded again of what I am to Sloane Thurman. Her best friend's son. That's all I'll ever be."

Dempsey was in love with his mother's best friend for years... but she is seeing him as only a child.
Everyone around him has the worst opinion on him, but he is playing effortless the role of the black sheep inside the Park family...
He just needs for Sloane to start seeing him as a man and the chance is arriving when Sloane's nephew is coming to live with her and she needs Dempsey's help...
Now, it's Dempsey's chance to make her see him in a new light and why not even to fall for him!!!

"Dempsey Park is getting under my skin. I need to pick him out before he burrows too far."

Sloane is a cop and very focused in her job...
She doesn't need a man in her life to complete her and she is a really tough cookie to break...
The only thing that she is cherishing in her life is her longlife best friend, Jamie, since she is enstranged with her own family...
And then, her nephew is coming into her life and Dempsey, her best friend's son, is there to give her a hand and everything are changing for her... cause Dempsey Park is not the troubled kid that she used to know, but a man that is completely rocking her world...

"Of course the first time I actually feel attraction and connection to a man, it's the wrong one for me."

I was expecting Dempsey and Sloane's journey to be more intense and wild, and it turned out to be sweet and domesticated, but I am not complaining...
Dempsey had proved himself over and over again to Sloane and it was impossible for her to not fall for this man, even though he had her half years...
I won't lie to you that sometimes, it felt weird this relationship... Mostly because Sloane was always there around the Parks as Dempsey was a baby, but I still couldn't remain unmoved of their romance...
These two had lots of obstacles to overcome and not only on the romance aspect...

"Everything around us is falling apart.
Us, though? We're falling into place."

Yes, these Parks are an insane group... Every story in this family is a new taboo story that will leave you wanting for more and more...
I loved them all so much and I am impatiently waiting for the last book in the series...
I am really wondering about Gemma's love interest... What shameful secret we will uncover this time???

"Our family doesn't exactly follow the typical rout when love is involved...."

**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**

[Mysti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Have I told you I'm addicted? I didn't think I'd like the age gap in this one, but I did.

Dempsey (18, artist) has been the bad boy of the family, while his twin sister Gemma gets all the praise. He feels like his family doesn't understand him or care about him, even though he's taken the blame for several of them (when Callum beat up the guy attacking Willa in Book 1 and when Spencer killed Aubrey's kidnapper in Book 2). Our sweet Dempsey also has a secret, he's in love with his mom's BFF, Sloane.

Sloane (age unknown, cop) has never thought of Dempsey as anything other than a kid, until he turns 18 and not only proves himself to be her protector, but also makes his feelings known. She knows that Dempsey is off limits because he's her BFF's son. Sloane and Jamie both grew up poor and from sh!tty families (we never get Jamie's story so that's frustrating). When Sloane learns her nephew is getting into trouble, she starts to investigate what's going on, which leads to possible corruption on the police force and making herself an enemy of a local MC.

Sloane eventually acknowledges her feelings for D and they fall together around the 58% mark. There's a lot of drama involving the MC, drugs, Sloane's family, S & D's relationship, S and Jamie's relationship, D's relationship with his parents, his place in the family, what D wants to do with his life, amongst other things.

I've always loved Dempsey because he's funny and is always saving the day. I thought I was going to find their relationship weird, but I didn't. I guess D has never felt like a child in the past books. His sister Gemma definitely acts like a child and she's a little annoying in this one.

The sex was good, but there wasn't enough of it and he always pulled out - which I hate. I guess it's better than using condoms. I do love them together because Dempsey is so sweet and is willing to wait as long as Sloane wants.

I was a little annoyed that Sloane goes through two attacks and one of those is a potential rape. I felt like they were predictable. I also wish that it had been pointed out that everyone in the family is in a relationship with someone much younger than themselves. It was also never fully addressed how unfairly they've treated D, at least not to my satisfaction.

Overall, I still love it.

PS. Spencer and Callum are funny, especially Spencer. He's the best dad.

[💜VGreedyReader🖤 · Rating 4 out of 5]

★3.50★

I’m always on the lookout for a good reverse age gap. When I saw Ms Webster, who is very well versed when it comes to age gap romances, was going to release a new story featuring this trope I didn’t need any further persuasion to grab it.

~𝙈𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙤𝙪𝙨, 𝙤𝙪𝙩-𝙤𝙛-𝙢𝙮-𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙜𝙪𝙚, 𝙤𝙡𝙙𝙚𝙧, 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙗𝙞𝙙𝙙𝙚𝙣 𝙬𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙥 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙖 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙡~

This author doesn’t disappoint in delivering a spicy and heartfelt tale. Dempsey is as sweet as passionate. Despite his age he’s very sure about what he wants, Sloane isn’t just a conquest, she is his endgame and he isn’t afraid to pursue her.

~“𝘿𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙮 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙢𝙚, 𝙗𝙖𝙗𝙚. 𝙄 𝙖𝙡𝙢𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙨𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙄’𝙢 𝙩𝙤𝙤 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙜𝙞𝙫𝙚.”~

Sloane a is a strong woman whose sense of justice overcomes her own wishes. She takes her job as a police officer very seriously, she’s very adamant in making the truth shine. She deserves her happiness and a break from a busy life devoted to the safety of other people.

~𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙩𝙖𝙡𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙠𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝘿𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙨𝙚𝙮 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙗𝙚, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙨𝙚𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡 𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙝𝙚 𝙞𝙨~

Told in dual POV this author never fails to deliver good steam combined with feels and a little suspense. A good journey to comfort you during your busy days. I appreciated the artsy side in Dempsey and how his personality emerges during the story. Sloane is a woman who deserves to be happy, I wasn’t initially on board with some of her actions but as I get to know her I understood the reason behind it.

~“𝙊𝙛𝙛𝙞𝙘𝙚𝙧 𝘿𝙤-𝙂𝙤𝙤𝙙, 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮, 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙣𝙖𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙮.”~

In typical fashion for this author sometimes two-dimensional side of the characters slowed down the narrative pace. Although I enjoyed the taboo side of this story I wished for more in depth analysis, the gap between these two characters is quite significant but it was merely brushed upon. The overall result is a tad rushed but on the bright side this was a quick warmth inducing journey.

[Mayssa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was honestly pleasantly surprised by this book it wasn’t at all what I expected going in, and I’m so glad it took a different turn.

In this series, I read the first book and really enjoyed it. The second book, though, left a sour taste in my mouth the whole storyline with the mum manipulating Spencer and then having her kid just made me uncomfortable. I skimmed most of it, and I was convinced the series was going downhill from there. I was even planning to skip this one and just wait for Gemma’s book.

But I decided to give it a chance, and I’m so glad I did because I loved it from page one. Dempsey completely surprised me he wasn’t the arrogant asshole I was expecting at all. Instead, he turned out to be the sweetest character in the entire series. I loved how mature he was with Sloane, how patient he stayed even when she kept pushing him away. He never lost his temper instead, he comforted her, gave her space, and was always there waiting until she was ready. The way he respected her made their relationship so wholesome and heartwarming.

This ended up being one of my favorites.

✨ Tropes & Details:
• Dual virgins
• FMC: 38 years old
• MMC: 18 years old
• He’s always loved her, crushing on her his entire life so much so that he’s never been with anyone else. She’s his first everything.
• She’s never been with anyone either, needing a deep connection to give herself to someone, and she finally finds that in him.

[Amee · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite in the series thus far about the kooky Park family and the drama that follows them.

[Kennedy Butler · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Reverse Age Gap/ Forbidden romance about an older cop and young 18 year old boy obsessed with his mom's bestfriend.

It was a bit underwhelming and I'm all for age gap, but I felt the MMC was very... whiney? If that makes sense which most boys are but I just wanted more for this story.

[TheBookPlatypus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ohhh this one is a juicy forbidden and quite taboo love story!
Moms best friend
Male/18 Female/In her 30’s
He’s the moody artist and “troublemaker”
She’s the frigid local cop

“It’s wrong to keep pining after her. Stupid. Reckless. Selfish. And yet, I can’t turn my feelings off just because it’s the right thing to do.”

Dempsey is a misunderstood barely legal guy that has been in love with his mom’s best friend since as long as he can remember. He is a virgin. And feels like the outcast from his family because he does not fit in anywhere. He’s also very artistic and his muse is Sloane AKA Officer Do-Good.

Sloane has always been alone when it comes to finding anyone to settle down with. Her job is her life and she takes it very seriously. Because of the way she grew up, she has never felt like she has fit in, or deserves to step out of place as a perfect cop. Because of this, she is a virgin, and has always felt lonely. When her nephew desperately needs help, Dempsey steps in to help out.
This is definitely a slow burn. It’s a
he-falls-first trope.
For me, an 18-year-old is still very much a child. But this is fiction, and Dempsey is, of course, very mature for his age and treats Sloane like an absolute queen. There’s a little bit of mystery vibes within her workplace. It does end with an HEA and a little snippet for his twin sister, Gemma’s story!
3.5⭐️

[Mirjam · Rating 4 out of 5]

The fourth book in the Shameful Secrets series focuses on Dempsey Park, 18 years old, the supposedly "bad boy" half of the twins, contrasting him with his "Angel" sister Gemma. "A rebellious young man with a lifelong obsession with his mom’s best friend.", Sloane Thurman aka Officer Do-Good.







As the reliable officer within the community and her connection to the influential Park Family, this was a story I eagerly looked forward to read.
I pondered why Dempsey and Sloane felt the need to conceal their relationship, especially considering it would seem hypocritical for Mom and Dad Park to oppose it, given they began their own relationship with a significant age gap.

In the end, I wholeheartedly applauded Dempsey's willingness to embrace his desires and Sloane's realisation of the importance of prioritising her own happiness.






This book is full of surprises and suspense, but I'm eagerly anticipating Gemma's story to see how her caring twin Dempsey and the rest of the Parks might factor into it.
Told in first person and dual POV, alternating between Dempsey & Sloane, this is a complete MF standalone novel with a happily ever after.



ARC provided in exchange for an honest review

Standalone books in the Shameful Secrets series are best enjoyed when read in order:

[Amber (Amber Reads Romance) · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️.5

The Law of Deceit is the 4th book in the Shameful Secrets series. This book is a sweet, reverse age gap romance between Dempsey Park and his mom’s best friend, Sloane.

Dempsey is considered the bad twin compared to his perfect twin sister, but there was so much more to him. He is a sweet, golden retriever hero who has been pining after his mom’s best friend for years. Sloane is a dedicated cop and has been best friends with his mom since they were children. She sees the real Dempsey and supports his love for art. I loved how Demsey was an artist and Sloane was his muse.

Sloane has a lot of family drama going on, and she has to take in her nephew when her sister goes missing. She has always lived just for her job until she starts bonding with her nephew and getting closer to Dempsey. Dempsey was so sweet doing the small things to show he cared about her, like bringing her coffee and helping with her nephew. Sloane starts to feel an attraction for him, but she has a lot of guilt because she has known him since he was a baby.

Dempsey and Sloane have such a sweet, slow burn romance. I loved how Sloane could see him for who he really was and how Dempsey took care of her. He truly puts her first. There is also some suspense in dealing with her family and issues with possible corruption in the police department.

I loved seeing the family, especially Tate and Jude, from the previous book. I am also excited to read his twin sister’s book next.

Thank you to Unalive Promotions for providing the ARC.

[Ana_books_and_stuff · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 4th book of the Shameful Secrets series, and it did not disappoint.

Dempsey surprises you, because during all the other books he is painted like the troublemaker that doesn't care about anything besides himself.
Well, that's very far from the truth, he is in fact very caring and protective of the ones he loves, especially Sloane, who he has always loved.

Sloane is his mother's best friend and part of MPPD, like his mom she grew up on the wrong side of town and always fought her way out, but all her family still lives there.

This book tell us the story of Dempsey and Sloane and how they fall for each other, and it's so sweet to see how they evolve, how Dempsey grows and takes responsibility for what he wants. And how Sloane realizes that she deserves to be loved even if it's an unconventional love.
But you also will have your heart strings pulled to the max, my anxiety level was off, and I was turning page after page to see what would happen next.

Besides the love story you have mystery and corruption going on, and it's so well written that you believe what the characters believe and get side blinded like they do.

I always biased when it comes to K Webster, because I really like her books, but if it wasn't good I would let you know. So you know... It's GOOD!

And now we want to know who is stalking Gemma!

[MissPetiteBrunetteBookBlog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dempsey Park always claimed he was the bad twin compared to his “Angel” sister Gemma. The artistic loner has also always had a thing for his mom’s friend, local cop Sloane Thurman. When Sloane needs someone to look in on her nephew’s bad behavior she asks if Dempsey can help her. That one favor changes their relationship from friends to something dangerous…something more. This is a slow burn age gap romance with a bit of mystery that picks up more towards the 60% mark for me. There are also some lighthearted moments with other family members and of course some steamy ones too. A good addition to this Park family series yet each book can be read as a stand-alone. Told in first person and dual POV.

[Kristy Odom · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one broke my heart, and then mended it. There were so many obstacles, but Dempsey is determined to do and be what Sloane needs.

Dempsey is such a good man, but feels unseen. Sloane sees him. When he gets recognized for his art, all of his secrets are revealed. He has to come clean to his family.

Because of Sloane’s connection to his mother, she is sure his mother won’t allow them to be together. Dempsey is determined to change her mind even if it blows apart his family.

When they catch the notice a biker gang, Sloane is determined to save her nephew. None of the obstacles in their way matter. Both families are at risk. They all need to band together to save everyone.

I love this book. This author always manages to pull me into her books. I fall in love with the characters. This one made me cry, and I was unable to put it down last night until I was finished.

[Kelly_Reads_Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a smoking hot story of an older woman younger man. And it was so well written by K Webster that I could not stop reading until the end.
Sloane struggles with her attraction to Dempsey, her best friend’s son, and she’s not willing to jeopardize her lifelong friendship with her best friend.
Dempsey on the other hand has no wish to ignore his attraction and feelings with Sloane and pulls out all the stops to make her see him as a man.
Very well written and extremely entertaining with loveable characters ❤️

[Micheala · Rating 2 out of 5]

I hate having to write this review, but this book just wasn't for me. I was bored for much of it. I didn't feel a connection between Sloane and Dempsey so the entire thing just felt blah. I skimmed the last third of the book because I was tired of it putting me so far behind on my reading goal. Hopefully Gemma's book is better. Shame because the series began so strong for me.

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Law of Deceit by K. Webster is book 4 in the Shameful Secrets Series. This is the story of Dempsey and Sloane. Dempsey is a young man who has had a feelings for his mom's best friend since the start. Sloane is a older women who Dempsey knows is his end game. Enjoyed this reverse age gap romance.

[Heather Mulvihill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dempsey & Gemma, both 18 now. They graduate from high school and while Gemma is ecstatic about going to college. Dempsey is not and doesn't want to work with his father or brothers.
Dempsey is currently obsessed with Sloane Thurman, local cop & his mom's best friend. Sloane & her partner pull over Michael Dennison & some friends but to Sloane’s surprise, her nephew, Kaden is in the car. Rhiannon, his mother & Sloane’s sister is dating a new guy

I loved all the twists and turns of Dempsey & Sloane's families and their fight to stay together. So excited for Gemma’s book

[SimplyƝì₭]

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This should be dark! Age Gap reverse. Suga Mama

[♥ I’d Rather Be Reading ♥ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

- FMC: Sloane
- MMC: Dempsey
- POVs Included: Dual POVs (Dempsey, Sloane)
- Book Playlist (Shameful Secrets Book Series Playlist)

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SUMMARY: (SPOILER WARNING)

Dempsey has had a crush on the same woman for years. A woman who is perfect for him in every way...but oh so off limits -- his mom's best friend. But when have the Park men ever fallen in love with someone NOT forbidden?

Sloane is struggling with her new attraction to Dempsey. He's always been a kid, her best friend's troublemaker son. But now she's noticing he's not a kid anymore. And when Dempsey starts to pursue her, she's having a hard time resisting him.

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REVIEW:

In all honesty I have been dragging my feet to start this book. I am not a fan of reverse age gaps. I don't HATE them, but I don't actively seek them out. I only ever read them if they're in a series I'm already working my way through (like this one). So that immediately turned me off a bit from this one.

Another reason is that when this series first started I thought for sure that K. Webster (being that she's K. Webster) would finish off this series with the most forbidden pairing of all the Parks. I really thought she'd pair off Dempsey and Gemma. It's not like she's stranger to "those types" of books. lol So I'll admit I was a little disappointed that the last books in this series are actually the least forbidden sounding instead of the most. Oh well.

But once I got past my initial disappointments, the book was a decent read.

Dempsey is fabulous. I don't think it's possible for me to dislike any of the Park men? They are all smoking hot and sexy. And super passionate when it comes to their lovers. Dempsey is no different in that regard. He's head over heels for Sloane and he treats her like a princess. Perfect guy in my opinion.

Sloane is okay. I didn't dislike her. But she's kind of...boring. I honestly don't really understand Dempsey's obsession with her. I just didn't...understand them together. But like I said, I didn't hate her. She has good qualities and she's not annoying. She's just a little meh. Also she's a nearly 40 year old virgin? I always have a hard time buying that kind of stuff. Especially when the book takes place in present time.

Together their chemistry was a little weak at first. They are kind of cute and sweet together. But I didn't necessarily feel the heat between them.

The story going on was quite interesting though. There's a fishy biker gang, suspicious and possibly crooked cop colleagues, murders that hit close to home, and all of it's connected. This part of the book won me over. The plot was interesting and I enjoyed it.

I also loved that the book ended with their obligatory Park family dinner. I love how all of the books in this series end that way. It makes me think of a sitcom where after the crazy shenanigans that happened the whole episode, the family comes together and are always there for each other. That's what I love about the Parks. They have unconventional pairings and they bicker from time to time, but in the end they all love each other unconditionally.

Overall the book was decent. I really liked Dempsey. Him and Sloane were pretty cute, and the plot was interesting. Not my favorite book from the series, but not bad either.

[Books, Booze & Bon Voyage (Krista Webster) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Law Of Deceit is book four in the Shameful Secrets series by K.Webster. Each book focuses on one of the Park Family and this is the steamy reverse age-gap, forbidden romance between Dempsey Park aka ‘Troublemaker’ and Sloane Thurman aka ‘Officer Do-Good’. It is an opposites attract romance which can be read as a standalone but to really appreciate the dynamics of this family, I’d recommend reading this series in order. This is also a romantic suspense because Sloane is a police woman and the plot has her investigating a variety of cases during her developing relationship with Dempsey.

“We’re in this together, no matter the consequences.”

Dempsey is eighteen years old and Gemma’s twin brother. He is known as the bad boy of the family. He has loved Sloane for as long as he can remember and doesn’t care she is older than him. He knows his mum will never give her blessing to their relationship but he is obsessed with her. He is a talented artist and she is his muse for all his art.

Sloane is Dempsey’s mother’s best friend. She and Jamie grew up together and both endured a hard childhood as they fought to get out of the wrong side of town. To her Dempsey is just her friend’s troublesome son, who she has known since he was born.
She doesn’t get on with her family but she is shocked when her nephew needs her help. This is the opportunity Dempsey has been waiting for and by helping with Kaden, it gives him a way to have some quality time with her.

A slow burn romance as he works hard to persuade her they could be something. She tries to deny the attraction to him but it doesn’t work especially when he constantly shows her how much she means to him and helps her. He shows up when she needs him and is so patient with her. Everyone says he is reckless and wild but Sloane sees the real Dempsey.

They start a secret relationship and your heart will go out to Dempsey. I found him such a sweet heart, so thoughtful, caring, and funny. There are some surprises along the way and stolen passionate moments. Sloane can’t believe the first time she feels attracted and connected to someone, it’s the wrong man, just like all the women in he family. Dempsey in the same position as none of the Park family have followed the typical route when love is involved. Both these characters are outsiders in their families so there is a great level of understanding between them.

I felt the story was more about Sloane than Dempsey. She had so much family and work drama that at times it over shadowed their relationship. I loved how his friendship with Tate was growing and catching up with the rest of the Park family. It is going to be interesting how K. Webster finishes this series with Gemma’s book - The Torment of Two.

[Kay Daniels (Kay Daniels Romance) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The newest book in the Shameful Secrets series brings a reverse age gap story filled with a ton of intrigue and suspense and a forbidden love story with a ton of heart.

Dempsey Park has had a secret crush on his mothers best friend, Sloane, for years and to add to the forbidden layer of this book Sloane is also a police officer. 🚔 Hello Officer Do-Good vs. Delinquent Park 🫦🔥

So while it would be hypocritical of Dempsey’s parents to stop a relationship, considering they started from a forbidden age gap themselves, it's also hard as a parent to watch your child make the same mistakes. I could see this aspect, but I also have to say that Dempsey is more than what he portrays to his family.

Dempsey’s a great kid sadly shadowed behind his straight A student sister, his parents past, and a young teen screw up that has layed the foundation for how everyone seems to view him. It's a great reminder that not everyone is defined by the box they've been placed in. Change and growth is a big part of being human, but sometimes we forget and want to keep people in a safely wrapped bubble. My heart bled for Dempsey until he was alone with Sloane. Then that man knew what he wanted and whew!! 🔥🔥 Dempsey is hot!!

Sloane has known Dempsey his entire life and while she comes to a lot of terms about herself, her job, and of course about Dempsey through this book, the biggest one is that she recognizes a lot of same traits about herself in Dempsey. It doesn't define age, which is what others want to focus on. Sloane has often been overlooked, been discarded, and set aside. Whether it's in her family or her job, she recognizes the same loneliness in Dempsey.

They both are looking for someone to share moments with, along with thoughts, and feelings and those are big things that shouldn't be discarded. I love this for both of them. 💕

There are surprises and a lot of suspense in this book, but more than anything I loved how much Dempsey and Sloane fell for one another.

Lastly, I'll just touch on the relationship Dempsey has with his twin sister Gemma. Honestly, I've loved the entire Park family dynamic as the series has built from book to book, but the sibling relationship between these two is extra special. It's funny and sweet and different than we've had before and I'm excited for Gemma’s book to see how Dempsey and frankly how all the Parks might play a part in it.

[Cynthia Mejia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leave it to the queen of taboo romance to craft a reverse age-gap romance so angsty and tension-filled, you can slice through it with a proverbial knife. The story of Sloane and Dempsey is so perfectly written and served up for a decadent reading experience.

Dempsey is graduating from high school. He’s not sure what his future holds but he does know who he’d like to share that future with. He’s been pining for a long time for the one woman he feels he’ll never be able to have: his mother’s best friend. Every time she walks into a room, she steals his breath away and Dempsey feels like this is his one shot to claim her heart.

Sloane grew up on the wrong side of town and did everything in her power to overcome her troublesome family and meager upbringing. While her best friend married into their little town’s elite, Sloane paved a career for herself in law enforcement, where she’s continued to excel. While she’s thrown herself into her work, her personal life has been neglected. She dotes on her best friend’s kids and worries about her strained relationship with her own nieces and nephews.

Then one night, Dempsey makes his move and Sloane notices the young man her best friend’s son has grown into. Amid a subplot full of danger and intrigue, Sloane finds connections with her mother, sisters, and their children. She also allows herself to succumb to the attention Dempsey showers on her. His sweet gestures and persistent attention, his possessiveness, and his determination to give her what she needs make Sloane fall for Dempsey in the most wonderful way.

This is a slow-burn romance and does not have a third act break up. These two are so perfect for each other and only K Webster could have given us a relationship with so much emotion and so much spice. Absolutely wonderful story! Loved every word!

[Nolagirl29 · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sexy, steamy reverse age-gap (large age-gap) romance with suspense, intrigue, family drama, angst, and a few twists. It's wrong, but oh so right. This is book #3 in the Shameful Secrets series.

Dempsey is perceived as a bad boy. A rebel. He's angry and misunderstood by a lot of people. His twin, Gemma, is the angel. He feels like he can't do anything right. He has been in love with Sloane, his mom's best friend for a while now. No one knows. It's taboo, forbidden, but he can't help how he feels.

Sloane is a cop. She's known Dempsey and his twin sister since they were born. This sudden attraction she feels towards Dempsey isn't welcomed. Sloane knows that she shouldn't cross that line. She doesn't want to jeopardize her relationship with Jamie, Dempsey's mom and also her best friend. Besides, she doesn't care to be the fodder of the small-town gossip. The problem? Dempsey is persistent, caring, and charming. He makes it abundantly clear what he wants. The more time she spends with him and sees the real guy underneath, the more difficult it is to fight their feelings.

There's so much more to Dempsey than meets the eye. There's a talented, good guy beneath his bad-boy image. Sloane was strong, protective, and determined. She has family drama that threatens more than just her happiness. Will Dempsey be the one to turn things around? Can Sloane stay away from the temptation that is Dempsey?

This is a slow-burn taboo/forbidden romance that does not disappoint. If you like romances that push boundaries, this is a must-read. It does focus more on the story versus the steam, but I liked getting this aspect of their story. I loved seeing characters from the previous books in this series make appearances. Although Dempsey and Sloane face a lot of obstacles, they get their HEA. This is a standalone within a series.

[INeedABookBreak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic forbidden love story featuring the Park family. I was dying to know what Dempsey was up to after finishing Heart of Smoke and this book did not disappoint!

Turns out, babiest of the Park brothers (and resident bad boy) is crushing on Sloane, his mom’s best friend and local police officer. Sloane had a rough upbringing and has unofficially become part of the Park family. She has no idea that Dempsey has been crushing on her his entire life. However, circumstances bring them together and she finds herself becoming attracted to him.

Sloane really struggled to accept her feelings for Dempsey. After growing up in her own family, she really didn’t want to compromise her relationship with her best friend and Dempsey’s mom. Sloane has really had it rough and worked hard to get where she is today, but I loved the forbidden tension that was served along with all of her guilt.

Dempsey was a bit of a contradiction. To his parents, he was an irresponsible “bad boy,” who was always making trouble. However, Sloane got to see the dependable and loving man he grew to be. I swooned every time he called her “Officer Do-Good”

I also enjoyed all the appearances of the other Park siblings, who have been featured in the first books of this series. Law of Deceit is the fourth in the series and although each book stands alone, I definitely recommend reading the others in this series. Callum’s outright support and calls of karma were hilarious in this book after knowing what happened in the first book in the series.

I am so excited for the next book in this series, which will feature Dempsey’s twin sister.