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True Crime Junkies #7
The Secrets She Kept
In the Land of the Midnight Sun, secrets cast long shadows.
Former Army investigator Duke McAllister remains determined to uncover the truth behind his fiancée’s mysterious disappearance two years ago. Joined by his friend and podcast teammate, Andi Slade, Duke delves into Celeste Dawson’s past and soon uncovers a mind-bending conspiracy.
When a shocking news report names Celeste as a suspect in a series of murders, Duke must grapple with the mounting evidence that his fiancée may not be the person he thought she was. The stakes rise to terrifying new heights when bodies start piling up and the podcast team becomes a target.
Duke and Andi must navigate a labyrinth of secrets, betrayal, and murder to unravel the web of deceit that reaches far beyond anything they ever imagined. Will they find the answers before it’s too late? Or will the secrets Celeste kept destroy them all?
Former Army investigator Duke McAllister remains determined to uncover the truth behind his fiancée’s mysterious disappearance two years ago. Joined by his friend and podcast teammate, Andi Slade, Duke delves into Celeste Dawson’s past and soon uncovers a mind-bending conspiracy.
When a shocking news report names Celeste as a suspect in a series of murders, Duke must grapple with the mounting evidence that his fiancée may not be the person he thought she was. The stakes rise to terrifying new heights when bodies start piling up and the podcast team becomes a target.
Duke and Andi must navigate a labyrinth of secrets, betrayal, and murder to unravel the web of deceit that reaches far beyond anything they ever imagined. Will they find the answers before it’s too late? Or will the secrets Celeste kept destroy them all?
408 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2024
About the author
Christy Barritt
344 books1,748 followersChristy Barritt is an author, freelance writer and speaker who lives in Virginia. She’s married to her Prince Charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious—but only when she’s not trying to be. Christy’s a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado. She’s only won one contest in her life—and her prize was kissing a pig (okay, okay… actually she did win the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery also). Her current claim to fame is showing off her mother, who looks just like former First Lady Barbara Bush
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
December 30, 2024
Reminds me of the movie Total Recall! Got some closure in this book. Loved it as usual!
May 13, 2024
Secrets She Kept by Christy Barritt is the continuing sage of Duke and Andi. This time around, the story focuses on Duke and Celeste, his ex-fiancé, who went missing. As the story progresses, readers are going to come head-to-head with more of what was going on to make her disappear. Barritt does a wonderful job at keeping the action at a high level throughout the entire story. Characters are like friends from a familiar, yet hauntingly realistic show that fans have come to adore and wonder what really happened before the story began. Barritt has been building this story world and conflict from the first book, so it will be nice to see how she wraps it all up during the eighth book. Overall, Secrets She Kept by Christy Barritt wraps readers in a world of technology gone wrong and how well do we really know others. I enjoyed this story.
I received a complimentary copy of Secrets She Kept by Christy Barritt, but the opinions stated are all my own.
I received a complimentary copy of Secrets She Kept by Christy Barritt, but the opinions stated are all my own.
May 7, 2024
Duke McAllister, one of the True Crime podcast team, still seeks information about his missing fiancée, Celeste Dawson, and this books brings more light to the ongoing mystery. Could Celeste be part of the rash of mercy killings in several states? And did she desert Duke or was she forced to leave? The suspense and the intensity ramp up in book 7 of the True Crime Junkies series. I never figured out who was behind it all. I suggest reading this thrilling series in order for ultimate enjoyment. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
May 19, 2024
This story continues to frustrate me as I felt that the series as a whole had great potential and isn’t delivering. This felt rushed and haphazardly thrown together, largely giving the upper hand to the villains. Once again the importance given to Andi, a truly unlikable character was off putting. The podcast team were once again stage props for the Duke and Andi show and I truly wish that they had been allowed to really shine in this series. The explanation for a 7 book long mystery was so out of left field that it felt like I was cheated as a reader.
May 12, 2024
"A thought circled in his mind.
A thought he didn't want to acknowledge.
A thought he certainly didn't want to speak out loud.
Because the idea seemed preposterous.
It didn't make sense.
Then again, a lot of things happening lately didn't make sense."
Duke McAllister had been faithfully searching for his missing fiance following her mysterious disappearance over two years prior . . . . .long enough for his heart to have disconnected? Maybe. Brilliant, beautiful, stubborn-as-a-mule Andi Slade had slipped into his life and taken root, supporting his efforts to find Celeste while not demanding anything more of him than a friendship sporting a special bond. But neither Duke nor Andi nor any member of their Arctic Circle Murder Club podcast team were prepared for the news release . . . . accusing Celeste of being a murderer.
" . . . he knew God was still there. Even when Duke couldn't see Him or feel Him, that didn't mean He had disappeared."
Such a tangled web! In fact, not in one million, zillion years would I have imagined how this story was going to turn out. This author and this series . . . her signature style . . . . and brilliant plotting, are absolutely, without a doubt, perfectly matched!
A thought he didn't want to acknowledge.
A thought he certainly didn't want to speak out loud.
Because the idea seemed preposterous.
It didn't make sense.
Then again, a lot of things happening lately didn't make sense."
Duke McAllister had been faithfully searching for his missing fiance following her mysterious disappearance over two years prior . . . . .long enough for his heart to have disconnected? Maybe. Brilliant, beautiful, stubborn-as-a-mule Andi Slade had slipped into his life and taken root, supporting his efforts to find Celeste while not demanding anything more of him than a friendship sporting a special bond. But neither Duke nor Andi nor any member of their Arctic Circle Murder Club podcast team were prepared for the news release . . . . accusing Celeste of being a murderer.
" . . . he knew God was still there. Even when Duke couldn't see Him or feel Him, that didn't mean He had disappeared."
Such a tangled web! In fact, not in one million, zillion years would I have imagined how this story was going to turn out. This author and this series . . . her signature style . . . . and brilliant plotting, are absolutely, without a doubt, perfectly matched!
July 30, 2024
This was another fast-paced and exciting addition to the series. In my opinion, it’s the best one yet. I know I sound like a broken record, but this series is Christy Barritt at her finest.
The opening chapter was tense and full of urgency. I was instantly invested and reading as fast as possible.
The mystery surrounding Duke’s missing fiancée comes to a head, and we finally get some answers. And, wow, it was not what I expected! I was shocked by the turn of events.
There’s so much more I want to say, but I don’t want to spoil anything. Just be prepared for a wild and surprising thrill ride! I can’t wait to dive into the next book, the conclusion to this thrilling series.
This is not a standalone, so I recommend starting with book one. If you’re a fan of riveting mysteries and thrillers, you won’t be disappointed.
The opening chapter was tense and full of urgency. I was instantly invested and reading as fast as possible.
The mystery surrounding Duke’s missing fiancée comes to a head, and we finally get some answers. And, wow, it was not what I expected! I was shocked by the turn of events.
There’s so much more I want to say, but I don’t want to spoil anything. Just be prepared for a wild and surprising thrill ride! I can’t wait to dive into the next book, the conclusion to this thrilling series.
This is not a standalone, so I recommend starting with book one. If you’re a fan of riveting mysteries and thrillers, you won’t be disappointed.
November 28, 2024
No matter what I think of this story, have to say Barritt came up with a great plot that no one will be able to guess the end with and it's very well written. Also, THIS is the book you've been waiting for if you've been following since Book 1.
I disagreed with the weird way that minds can be controlled in experimental ways with this book, but it was very well done how it all came together.
We FINALLY see Celeste in this book and she is up to no good, but it's not entirely her fault...not fully accepting that but it's a nice twist. Duke and Andi also have their first kiss in the story, but it's been a long wait. This book can be read as a stand-alone, but it's nice following the main characters throughout the series. I skipped one of them and never felt lost. The next book in the series might by my fave read, but it's a well written series for sure.
I disagreed with the weird way that minds can be controlled in experimental ways with this book, but it was very well done how it all came together.
We FINALLY see Celeste in this book and she is up to no good, but it's not entirely her fault...not fully accepting that but it's a nice twist. Duke and Andi also have their first kiss in the story, but it's been a long wait. This book can be read as a stand-alone, but it's nice following the main characters throughout the series. I skipped one of them and never felt lost. The next book in the series might by my fave read, but it's a well written series for sure.
July 31, 2025
4.5/5 stars. Amazing book! It was very interesting and entertaining that I ended reading the book in less than 4 hours. I loved all the unexpected plot twists. I love how she creates unimaginable mysteries and plots. I think this was one of the better books of this series. The topics about brain wash, hypnosis, and the danger that technology can have in our lives if used with the wrong intention were added into the story in an amazing way. I'm also so happy Andie and Duke finally got together! I would have preferred if everything did not get resolved in like 2 chapters. (SPOILER!) I think that if Andie actually got the chip inside her brain, it would add a better and cooler plot to the story. In general, I loved this book. 100% recommend this series if you like unexpected plots with a lot of mystery with a subplot of romance.
May 9, 2024
Duke McAllister has been searching for his fiancée Celeste Dawson who had vanished two years ago. When Celeste pops up in the news, is she somehow connected to a series of mercy killings? As the Arctic Circle Murder Club investigates, the more Duke dives into this investigation hoping for answers and wanting to know if Celeste is innocent or guilty.
The Secrets She Kept has twists and turns that will have you keep reading until the end and has plenty of action and intrigue. Loved how Duke and Andi's relationship with each other has grown, even though he wanted closure and answers about Celeste's disappearance and involvement in the mercy killings. Looking forward to the next installment in this series.
The Secrets She Kept has twists and turns that will have you keep reading until the end and has plenty of action and intrigue. Loved how Duke and Andi's relationship with each other has grown, even though he wanted closure and answers about Celeste's disappearance and involvement in the mercy killings. Looking forward to the next installment in this series.
May 14, 2024
Lotta closure
Throughout the seven book series (so far) Duke has been looking for his fiancée, who mysteriously disappeared only three months into their engagement. Since meeting Andi, he has been torn between loyalty to his promise to the fiancée yet realizing his growing feelings for Andi. The murder club podcast has been under the odd sponsorship of a rich man, who wants to direct the way the club does business. This book settled Duke's quest but left Andi's quest still hanging. It is hopeful that her desire to bring a bad man to justice will come to fruition in the concluding book, still to come.
Throughout the seven book series (so far) Duke has been looking for his fiancée, who mysteriously disappeared only three months into their engagement. Since meeting Andi, he has been torn between loyalty to his promise to the fiancée yet realizing his growing feelings for Andi. The murder club podcast has been under the odd sponsorship of a rich man, who wants to direct the way the club does business. This book settled Duke's quest but left Andi's quest still hanging. It is hopeful that her desire to bring a bad man to justice will come to fruition in the concluding book, still to come.
May 14, 2024
I had an ARC for this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Former Army Investigator, Duke McAllister continues to look for his fiancé who has been missing for two years. Former lawyer and friend, Andi Slade is helping, but she is also investigating someone too. When she gets trapped in the back of a van, she texts him to rescue her. When the missing Celeste is accused of murdering people in several states, they look more intently for her especially when she is leaving notes, and being seen. Steeped in suspense and mystery this book follows as Duke and Andi look into murders, secrets, and betrayal. It’s one of those books you can’t put down and want to solve all the clues.
May 29, 2024
THE SECRETS SHE KEPT
As Duke & Andi grow closer, sightings of Celeste keep pushing them away from each other. As they are at a gas station, a news story comes on about a woman wanted in CA for the murder of seriously ill patients. The story goes on to say Celeste under an alias of Kelly Hanson at a CA hospital. Duke is stunned. He can't believe it! He is torn between a relationship with Andi & Celeste, who seems to have resurfaced yet again. As the news story continues to appear on the news channels, Duke's picture appears & the reporter wonders if Duke has been helping his fiancee commit the murders or if he is hiding her.
Another great True Crime Junkies Books!
As Duke & Andi grow closer, sightings of Celeste keep pushing them away from each other. As they are at a gas station, a news story comes on about a woman wanted in CA for the murder of seriously ill patients. The story goes on to say Celeste under an alias of Kelly Hanson at a CA hospital. Duke is stunned. He can't believe it! He is torn between a relationship with Andi & Celeste, who seems to have resurfaced yet again. As the news story continues to appear on the news channels, Duke's picture appears & the reporter wonders if Duke has been helping his fiancee commit the murders or if he is hiding her.
Another great True Crime Junkies Books!
June 1, 2024
Finally Duke is beginning to get some answers, but will he find out answers that he doesn't really want to know? As he begins to find out more about his fiancee, Celeste, and her past, the more confused he will become. Maybe he didn't know her at all. As I read this long-awaited installment of the True Crime Junkies Series, I was on the edge of my seat, wondering is Celeste was a killer, if she had used Duke, if he was going to get hurt all over again, or if there was a big cover-up involved. Read it for yourself and find out!
I received a copy of this book for free. The opinions are all my own.
I received a copy of this book for free. The opinions are all my own.
May 17, 2024
I didn't think this series could get any better, was I ever wrong!
Duke's story is just like him, mysterious, dark, hunky and soft at the sane time. He is about convinced that Celeste was using him and its time to move when she reappears in his life. Andi was about ready to throw out her theory that Duke needed closure with alk the questions answered. Then Andi gets taken and Duke must save her just in time.
I couldn't put it down once I started I had to see where it was going and I wasn't disappointed! Can't wait for Andi's story!
Duke's story is just like him, mysterious, dark, hunky and soft at the sane time. He is about convinced that Celeste was using him and its time to move when she reappears in his life. Andi was about ready to throw out her theory that Duke needed closure with alk the questions answered. Then Andi gets taken and Duke must save her just in time.
I couldn't put it down once I started I had to see where it was going and I wasn't disappointed! Can't wait for Andi's story!
May 30, 2024
Lots of twists & turns
Finally we unravel Celeste's story & it was a real surprise- to me at least. And a very satisfying resolution it is, too.
I've thoroughly enjoy learning about these characters & their back stories. And thankfully we still have more to learn as I'm looking forward to finding out where Victor Goldman's ends up. Hopefully even once that is resolved this is not the last we'll hear from the Arctic Murder Club. Based on the state of true crime podcasts in this country, there should be plenty more our heroes can explore going forward!
Finally we unravel Celeste's story & it was a real surprise- to me at least. And a very satisfying resolution it is, too.
I've thoroughly enjoy learning about these characters & their back stories. And thankfully we still have more to learn as I'm looking forward to finding out where Victor Goldman's ends up. Hopefully even once that is resolved this is not the last we'll hear from the Arctic Murder Club. Based on the state of true crime podcasts in this country, there should be plenty more our heroes can explore going forward!
May 18, 2024
I don’t want this series to stop!
I loved how finally Duke got the answers he needed and the closure that came from finding out the truth about Celeste. And hopefully Alpine is gone for good and maybe the Murder Club can set out to do what they do best. Andi I believe will bring Victor down! What a good read once again. The only downfall was it was a bit more scientific but the storyline wasn’t that far fetched when you consider today’s society.
I loved how finally Duke got the answers he needed and the closure that came from finding out the truth about Celeste. And hopefully Alpine is gone for good and maybe the Murder Club can set out to do what they do best. Andi I believe will bring Victor down! What a good read once again. The only downfall was it was a bit more scientific but the storyline wasn’t that far fetched when you consider today’s society.
May 18, 2024
I honestly didn't think I was going to like this series at first, but it just keeps getting better and better with each book.
This one may be the best yet. This book finally brings the Celeste saga to a close, and there are a ton of twists and turns as the team tries to find the truth, while trying to stay alive.
And there are some surprises along the way.
This book also brought the whole team back together.
Excellent read, and I am looking forward to the last book coming out in June.
This one may be the best yet. This book finally brings the Celeste saga to a close, and there are a ton of twists and turns as the team tries to find the truth, while trying to stay alive.
And there are some surprises along the way.
This book also brought the whole team back together.
Excellent read, and I am looking forward to the last book coming out in June.
June 10, 2024
The Secrets She Kept
Marvelous continuation to the True Crime Junkies series! Through all of the twists and turns in the book danger follows Former Army CID Duke McAllister and Andi as they search for clues to locate Duke’s fiancé, Celeste. Will Duke be able to find closure with her disappearance without putting any of his colleagues in the crossfire? The suspense and continuing drama make for an exciting read.
Marvelous continuation to the True Crime Junkies series! Through all of the twists and turns in the book danger follows Former Army CID Duke McAllister and Andi as they search for clues to locate Duke’s fiancé, Celeste. Will Duke be able to find closure with her disappearance without putting any of his colleagues in the crossfire? The suspense and continuing drama make for an exciting read.
June 19, 2024
Another great read! I'm dying to know how the Andi and Victor situation resolves itself but also can we just all clap and sigh because Duke and Andi are finally together?! The bit about mind control was truly fascinating. With the advances in technology and the drive to create a perfect soldier or solve mental health issues, it would be interesting to know how far in the future a mind chip could be.
November 25, 2024
Wow, amazing story! Although this one really spooked me, I read every word. The problem for me was the problem Andi had toward the end, that gave me the willies and nightmares last night.(when I read it) I read it cover to cover, and should have waited till morning to finish really, avoiding the nightmares. But the ending was terrific, one I’ve been waiting for. Tomorrow the final book of the series comes out and I am ready for it!
May 10, 2024
the secrets she kept
I absolutely loved this book. It kept me in suspense for the entire book. It is definitely a book that you can’t put down. I recommend this book to anyone who likes a book where you don’t know what will happen next. This is definitely a book you don’t want to miss.
I absolutely loved this book. It kept me in suspense for the entire book. It is definitely a book that you can’t put down. I recommend this book to anyone who likes a book where you don’t know what will happen next. This is definitely a book you don’t want to miss.
May 15, 2024
Duke and Andi
Now I can honestly say, who did it took me to the very last chapter for me to go Oh what a ding dong I am. This is such an action packed book. If you blink, loose your place etc, you will need to back up and read the chapter again. (It’s hard to read and watch a Baseball game on TV at the same time). Enjoy enjoy enjoy. Great mystery Christy Barritt.
Now I can honestly say, who did it took me to the very last chapter for me to go Oh what a ding dong I am. This is such an action packed book. If you blink, loose your place etc, you will need to back up and read the chapter again. (It’s hard to read and watch a Baseball game on TV at the same time). Enjoy enjoy enjoy. Great mystery Christy Barritt.
May 15, 2024
Thrilling suspense continues as this series gets involved in more danger and keeps you wondering who and what is going to happen. Christy Barritt knows how to keep the suspense going and not giving away any clues. I’m totally looking forward to Book 8, Most Likely to Die. Who will it be???
Great clean suspense with a Christian faith message woven throughout.
Great clean suspense with a Christian faith message woven throughout.
January 26, 2025
intense!
I’ve enjoyed reading many of Christy Barritt’s novels and series.
Each book in this series is so good. But she turned up the knob a bit on this one! I was at the edge or my seat, even caught myself whispering a prayer, and outloud saying, “No!” A couple of times!
On the last two books!! Dang! That was good and it just keeps moving the story line along!!! 🥸😎🥰
I’ve enjoyed reading many of Christy Barritt’s novels and series.
Each book in this series is so good. But she turned up the knob a bit on this one! I was at the edge or my seat, even caught myself whispering a prayer, and outloud saying, “No!” A couple of times!
On the last two books!! Dang! That was good and it just keeps moving the story line along!!! 🥸😎🥰
July 12, 2025
I’ll be honest, about 5% in, I decided I was bored and maybe would skip this book. Then, next thing I knew, I was 65% in and didn’t want to put it down!
Finally, we get Celeste’s mystery! And it is nothing like I expected!
This book had more Faith content than some of the others, which was great.
There is some creepy sci-fi type stuff in here that makes it a story I never wanted to put down!
Finally, we get Celeste’s mystery! And it is nothing like I expected!
This book had more Faith content than some of the others, which was great.
There is some creepy sci-fi type stuff in here that makes it a story I never wanted to put down!
May 15, 2024
Fantastic
This is book 7 in an 8 book series. Each one is incredibly fascinating and thrilling.
I plan on reading book 8 when it comes out at the end of June.
I highly recommend it and you won't be disappointed .
This is book 7 in an 8 book series. Each one is incredibly fascinating and thrilling.
I plan on reading book 8 when it comes out at the end of June.
I highly recommend it and you won't be disappointed .
May 15, 2024
With each edition, the danger and confusion escalates. Finally, there are some significant answers for Duke. But hang on, the twists resemble Danger Ahead signs on a mountain pass.
I received a copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
I received a copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
May 18, 2024
Wow!
The end was such a surprise! I never saw it coming. I have read all the books in this series and I do believe they just keep getting better! The suspense keeps me turning pages. I just have to know what is going to happen next. This is a great series. Enjoy!
The end was such a surprise! I never saw it coming. I have read all the books in this series and I do believe they just keep getting better! The suspense keeps me turning pages. I just have to know what is going to happen next. This is a great series. Enjoy!
May 18, 2024
Did not see this one coming! The whole True Crime Junkies series is fantastic and this book was no exception. This was such a unique story line and I was intrigued the entire way through. This series is a must read for anyone who loves clean suspense and true crime.
May 31, 2024
This is a book that keeps the reader on the edge of the seat throughout. I love all the twists in the story and how the main characters, Duke and Andi, depend on each other. Even though this is a fictional story, the idea of mind control is a topic that has presented itself in many fictional books. This story presents the idea in a more realistic possibility, with a scary potential. I highly recommend this book for people that love suspense.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews