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Secrets and Sins #2
Malachim
Looking like sin and smelling like trouble…
Boston attorney Malachim Jerrod doesn’t trust anyone. His father and his ex-fiancé taught him that hard lesson. So when a beautiful stranger arrives on his doorstep his first reaction is to back away—far away. Danielle Warren wants a job, but his law business is falling apart, and her credentials are bare-bones at best. Still, there’s something about her that, try as he might, he’s unable to resist. The vulnerability in her soft voice? The way she flinches when he gets too close? The yearning he sees mirrored in her eyes when she looks at him?
She’s the last thing he needs…
Two years ago, Danielle barely escaped alive from her powerful and abusive ex-husband. Now her ex is out of prison, and he’s coming for her. She knows she must leave her new job and run. Disappear—to keep herself and those she loves safe. Including her sexy boss, who has sparked feelings in her heart she never thought she’d feel again. Yet, she can’t help but wonder...should she let down her guard and trust Malachim with the truth?
But the only one he desires.
Working together brings them closer than ever—but reveals secrets and sins best left buried in the past. Their lives and their passionate love at stake, Danielle and Malachim must fight to survive to grasp the future of their dreams.
Boston attorney Malachim Jerrod doesn’t trust anyone. His father and his ex-fiancé taught him that hard lesson. So when a beautiful stranger arrives on his doorstep his first reaction is to back away—far away. Danielle Warren wants a job, but his law business is falling apart, and her credentials are bare-bones at best. Still, there’s something about her that, try as he might, he’s unable to resist. The vulnerability in her soft voice? The way she flinches when he gets too close? The yearning he sees mirrored in her eyes when she looks at him?
She’s the last thing he needs…
Two years ago, Danielle barely escaped alive from her powerful and abusive ex-husband. Now her ex is out of prison, and he’s coming for her. She knows she must leave her new job and run. Disappear—to keep herself and those she loves safe. Including her sexy boss, who has sparked feelings in her heart she never thought she’d feel again. Yet, she can’t help but wonder...should she let down her guard and trust Malachim with the truth?
But the only one he desires.
Working together brings them closer than ever—but reveals secrets and sins best left buried in the past. Their lives and their passionate love at stake, Danielle and Malachim must fight to survive to grasp the future of their dreams.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 9, 2013
65 people are currently reading
754 people want to read
About the author
Naima Simone
169 books2,145 followersPublished since 2009, USA Today Bestselling author Naima Simone loves writing sizzling romances with heart, a touch of humor and snark. Her books have been featured in The Washington Post and Entertainment Weekly, and described as balancing “crackling, electric love scenes with exquisitely rendered characters caught in emotional turmoil.”
She is wife to Superman, or his non-Kryptonian, less bullet proof equivalent, and mother to the most awesome kids ever. They all live in perfect, sometimes domestically-challenged bliss in the southern United States.
She is wife to Superman, or his non-Kryptonian, less bullet proof equivalent, and mother to the most awesome kids ever. They all live in perfect, sometimes domestically-challenged bliss in the southern United States.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
January 29, 2020
2.5 stars. I had to force myself to speed read to the end. Boring. Unlikely danger. Special snowflake melts Malachim’s heart. Blah.
September 8, 2013
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This was the first time I have ever read a book by this author and I will have to say I was definitely impressed. This novel is based around a women’s struggle to get as far away from a now ex husband’s physical and mental abuse, going as far as to completely change her identity, and leaving the friends and love ones behind to keep everyone safe.
Danielle Warren has lived through always having to look behind her to make sure she was safe and ready to leave the life she has taken up for the past two years if need be on the spot. She is living on only what she absolutely needs, especially now that she knows her ex-husband is free from jail and will probably come after her. She is the reason he went after all. She has her paralegal certificate but has never held a job except for at the diner she is currently working at.
Malachim is currently on suspension and may face losing his attorney license and firm for a secret he and his friends covered up more than 20 years ago. But he would do it again if he had to, because you never should turn your back on those that are almost like brothers. However, since this investigation started he has lost paralegals and other employees too; he put an open position out and that still needed to be filled.
When things start happening and those closest to Danielle start having accidents, she suddenly knows who is behind it but can she trust the only one who may be able to help her? Or will he turn his back on her due to a trust issue from his past? Well what do you think happens when an “inexperienced” paralegal who wants a second chance at life and a desperate lawyer who is on the brink of losing his firm (can’t currently even practice) meet?
Naima Simone will have you on the edge of your seat wanting to keep reading until you finish the book. I could not put it down because I wanted to find out what would happen next. The plot was really good and in my opinion I did not see any kinks in the story line. I will have to say that the twist towards the end was definitely something I did not see which made it even better. She not only brings you the story between Danielle and Malachim but also the gut wrenching suspense of what would you do if you were caught in Danielle’s shoes. They both were strong characters who had struggles of their own and needed to mend but needed that extra help. This book is very highly on my recommend to read list.
Reviewed by Sue Ellen
This was the first time I have ever read a book by this author and I will have to say I was definitely impressed. This novel is based around a women’s struggle to get as far away from a now ex husband’s physical and mental abuse, going as far as to completely change her identity, and leaving the friends and love ones behind to keep everyone safe.
Danielle Warren has lived through always having to look behind her to make sure she was safe and ready to leave the life she has taken up for the past two years if need be on the spot. She is living on only what she absolutely needs, especially now that she knows her ex-husband is free from jail and will probably come after her. She is the reason he went after all. She has her paralegal certificate but has never held a job except for at the diner she is currently working at.
Malachim is currently on suspension and may face losing his attorney license and firm for a secret he and his friends covered up more than 20 years ago. But he would do it again if he had to, because you never should turn your back on those that are almost like brothers. However, since this investigation started he has lost paralegals and other employees too; he put an open position out and that still needed to be filled.
When things start happening and those closest to Danielle start having accidents, she suddenly knows who is behind it but can she trust the only one who may be able to help her? Or will he turn his back on her due to a trust issue from his past? Well what do you think happens when an “inexperienced” paralegal who wants a second chance at life and a desperate lawyer who is on the brink of losing his firm (can’t currently even practice) meet?
Naima Simone will have you on the edge of your seat wanting to keep reading until you finish the book. I could not put it down because I wanted to find out what would happen next. The plot was really good and in my opinion I did not see any kinks in the story line. I will have to say that the twist towards the end was definitely something I did not see which made it even better. She not only brings you the story between Danielle and Malachim but also the gut wrenching suspense of what would you do if you were caught in Danielle’s shoes. They both were strong characters who had struggles of their own and needed to mend but needed that extra help. This book is very highly on my recommend to read list.
Reviewed by Sue Ellen
January 4, 2023
2.5-3 stars
DNFed in the middle
There was nothing majorly wrong with the story and I loved the writing style.
I didn't finish this one because the heroine's incomprehensible life choices and decisions made me scratch my head so many times I honestly wanted to holler.
And she started pissing me off too much.
Hence the DNF.
But maybe that's just me, dunno.
I still love Naima Simone and will definitely continue with the series.
This book just wasn't for me.
Or maybe just the heroine.
DNFed in the middle
There was nothing majorly wrong with the story and I loved the writing style.
I didn't finish this one because the heroine's incomprehensible life choices and decisions made me scratch my head so many times I honestly wanted to holler.
And she started pissing me off too much.
Hence the DNF.
But maybe that's just me, dunno.
I still love Naima Simone and will definitely continue with the series.
This book just wasn't for me.
Or maybe just the heroine.
December 6, 2022
When Danielle shows up on the steps of Malachim's door looking for a job he's hesitant. Not only does she not have the experience but the last woman he hired screwed him over. Only she's different. He knows she's hiding things and when bad stuff start happening around her, to her, all he wants to do is protect her.
This was a great listen. Nice slow burn with danger and twists.
This was a great listen. Nice slow burn with danger and twists.
September 3, 2013
In Secrets and Sins: Malachim by Naima Simone, Malachim is in danger of losing not only his law practice, but his license, after a decades old secret is revealed. When Danielle Warren applies for one of the jobs he's had difficulty filling because of his troubles, Malachim senses she is not who she seems to be...he senses secrets and a past he can relate to.
Danielle fled an abusive husband, changing her name, changing who she is. A job at Malachim's law firm as a para legal is just what she wants and needs to start moving forward again. From the moment she sees Malachim though, she feels things she has no business feeling..."The zooming-too-fast-down-a-hill sensation in her belly labeled him a danger - a danger to be avoided at all costs." Danielle doesn't want to trust Malachim, but she will have to trust someone.
When danger lurks and people Danielle care about start being hurt, Danielle feels like the nightmare is starting all over again. Her ex-husband is out of prison and after her, all Danielle can think to do is run and disappear again. But she is tired of running and letting her ex win...and some things and some people just might be worth fighting for. Can Danielle trust in Malachim and their feelings towards each other? Or is it too late as her past creeps closer and closer?
Danielle and Malachim have pasts that can do them and those around them damage. Malachim has come clean about his, and right or wrong he is now suffering the consequences. He also has to deal with the cold, angry man he's called father his whole life who has had nothing but contempt towards Malachim. Malachim can't ignore his feelings for Danielle though, and right or wrong, he wants to be with her and protect her. I found Malachim really easy to like and feel for. While I felt for Danielle - she has had a horrible life experience so far and never felt loved...I could not understand why she continued to keep her secret when they were so obviously affecting those around her. She needs to dig deep and find the strength to fight before it's too late...she can't run forever.
Both Malachim and Danielle were great characters that worked well together. They were similar enough and yet at the same time worlds apart. I think they are two people struggling to find their way in the world, and I found myself really hoping they'd find it together.
Naimi gives us a fast paced, dangerous and thrilling journey of personal growth and romance in Secrets and Sins. I got through Secrets and Sins really fast because I could not put it down! Naimi really made me feel a variety of emotions for the general plot and for the characters, really bringing Secrets and Sins to life. Naimi's descriptions, while graphic at times, were so realistic.
I did not read the first book in this series, but Naimi gave enough background so that I knew what was going on.
Danielle fled an abusive husband, changing her name, changing who she is. A job at Malachim's law firm as a para legal is just what she wants and needs to start moving forward again. From the moment she sees Malachim though, she feels things she has no business feeling..."The zooming-too-fast-down-a-hill sensation in her belly labeled him a danger - a danger to be avoided at all costs." Danielle doesn't want to trust Malachim, but she will have to trust someone.
When danger lurks and people Danielle care about start being hurt, Danielle feels like the nightmare is starting all over again. Her ex-husband is out of prison and after her, all Danielle can think to do is run and disappear again. But she is tired of running and letting her ex win...and some things and some people just might be worth fighting for. Can Danielle trust in Malachim and their feelings towards each other? Or is it too late as her past creeps closer and closer?
Danielle and Malachim have pasts that can do them and those around them damage. Malachim has come clean about his, and right or wrong he is now suffering the consequences. He also has to deal with the cold, angry man he's called father his whole life who has had nothing but contempt towards Malachim. Malachim can't ignore his feelings for Danielle though, and right or wrong, he wants to be with her and protect her. I found Malachim really easy to like and feel for. While I felt for Danielle - she has had a horrible life experience so far and never felt loved...I could not understand why she continued to keep her secret when they were so obviously affecting those around her. She needs to dig deep and find the strength to fight before it's too late...she can't run forever.
Both Malachim and Danielle were great characters that worked well together. They were similar enough and yet at the same time worlds apart. I think they are two people struggling to find their way in the world, and I found myself really hoping they'd find it together.
Naimi gives us a fast paced, dangerous and thrilling journey of personal growth and romance in Secrets and Sins. I got through Secrets and Sins really fast because I could not put it down! Naimi really made me feel a variety of emotions for the general plot and for the characters, really bringing Secrets and Sins to life. Naimi's descriptions, while graphic at times, were so realistic.
I did not read the first book in this series, but Naimi gave enough background so that I knew what was going on.
September 9, 2013
4.5 Stars
The story began with an intense scene that set the stage for the rest of the story. This book was wonderfully executed and had me guessing the whole time. Sure there were certain things I could see coming, but I was never really sure until they happened. The damaged heroine meets an equally damaged hero and that made the story so much better to read. They each had demons of the past they were fighting and after meeting each other they were able to fight those demons together.
Going in, I didn’t realize this book was the second in a series of four. Guess what? I never felt confused, or like I should know the meaning behind this or that. It can most definitely be read as a standalone and you won’t feel deprived. Of course now I would love to go back and read the first in the series. Also there was a nice little teaser of the next book and it was about the character that intrigued me the most. So I am interested in reading that one when it releases. This means, I believe that Ms. Simone has done her job and done it with panache. I want more of her writing, more of her books.
Mystery, intrigue, suspense and smoking hot romance: This is my favorite kind of book. So many of them now days fall short by focusing too much on the romance angle. Not this book. As the mystery unfolded we also got to see a romance bloom under difficult circumstances. I can’t express how much of a treat it was to read. The building anticipation of what you are sure is coming was drawn out perfectly. Not too much revealed and just enough to keep you riveted to the story. That is the perfect romantic suspense, in my book and Ms. Simone does the job wonderfully.
The story began with an intense scene that set the stage for the rest of the story. This book was wonderfully executed and had me guessing the whole time. Sure there were certain things I could see coming, but I was never really sure until they happened. The damaged heroine meets an equally damaged hero and that made the story so much better to read. They each had demons of the past they were fighting and after meeting each other they were able to fight those demons together.
Going in, I didn’t realize this book was the second in a series of four. Guess what? I never felt confused, or like I should know the meaning behind this or that. It can most definitely be read as a standalone and you won’t feel deprived. Of course now I would love to go back and read the first in the series. Also there was a nice little teaser of the next book and it was about the character that intrigued me the most. So I am interested in reading that one when it releases. This means, I believe that Ms. Simone has done her job and done it with panache. I want more of her writing, more of her books.
Mystery, intrigue, suspense and smoking hot romance: This is my favorite kind of book. So many of them now days fall short by focusing too much on the romance angle. Not this book. As the mystery unfolded we also got to see a romance bloom under difficult circumstances. I can’t express how much of a treat it was to read. The building anticipation of what you are sure is coming was drawn out perfectly. Not too much revealed and just enough to keep you riveted to the story. That is the perfect romantic suspense, in my book and Ms. Simone does the job wonderfully.
April 26, 2021
First of all, I need to say that I stayed up past 4am to finish this awesome book! I LOVE Mal and Danielle. She is a fighter, but loves so deeply too. I won’t give anything away, but I figured out the twist pretty early on (which obviously didn’t stop me from staying up to finish it). Such a great book. TW for those who need it: there is some on-page abuse.
September 11, 2013
I absolutely loved the book. There wasn't a single thing that I would change or add. There was lies, danger, suspence, romance, murder and betrayl. What more could you ask for. Between Alex, Walt and Christopher you never knew what was going to happen next.
The relationship between Malachim and Danielle was sweet, intense and passionate. They allowed each one to heal the other. They didn't give up or fall to easily into each other. Malachim respected Danielle and her past, without fully knowing what she went through. He knew she had serious problems that she was trying to overcome and he allowed her space and the time she needed to do it herself. He didn't force her to face something she wasn't ready for, he didn't force her to move faster than she was willing to go. He simply allowed her to be while enforcing the knowledge that he would always be there for her. That he respected her and admired her and would never harm her.
I really liked how Danielle was such a strong character and did what she needed to do to survive. She fought for her survival and her freedom. When she was faced with the choice of running and doing what she felt was the safest option for the people in her life or stying and fighting for the life she had created and the future she could finally see and trust in she chose to stay and fight. She chose love, trust and hope. She didn't run scared from a man that was good. She trusted in him to be there for her and to help her through no matter what. She didn't create unnecessary drama and make Malachim chase her, she simply picked him over her fear.
I cannot wait to read the rest of the Secrets and Sins series.
The relationship between Malachim and Danielle was sweet, intense and passionate. They allowed each one to heal the other. They didn't give up or fall to easily into each other. Malachim respected Danielle and her past, without fully knowing what she went through. He knew she had serious problems that she was trying to overcome and he allowed her space and the time she needed to do it herself. He didn't force her to face something she wasn't ready for, he didn't force her to move faster than she was willing to go. He simply allowed her to be while enforcing the knowledge that he would always be there for her. That he respected her and admired her and would never harm her.
I really liked how Danielle was such a strong character and did what she needed to do to survive. She fought for her survival and her freedom. When she was faced with the choice of running and doing what she felt was the safest option for the people in her life or stying and fighting for the life she had created and the future she could finally see and trust in she chose to stay and fight. She chose love, trust and hope. She didn't run scared from a man that was good. She trusted in him to be there for her and to help her through no matter what. She didn't create unnecessary drama and make Malachim chase her, she simply picked him over her fear.
I cannot wait to read the rest of the Secrets and Sins series.
September 30, 2013
I was expecting Mal's story. Maybe too much...
But I remained disappointed to a degree.
While Gabriel's and Leah's story has kept me avidly reading to find out what is happening, here I wasn't so involved.
It could be because since the beginning the reason of Danielle's secrecy was explained and even if Mal was kept in the dark, there wasn't enough reason to be curious. I also didn't like the twist at the end .
What I liked here was Mal. Even if in deep trouble because of his involvement with covering the murder of the pedophile of the previous book, he's so correct and so supportive. He knows something is not right with his new paralegal, Danielle, but he wants to help and doesn't fight his attraction, even when this is bound to bring him more trouble.
Danielle was the faulty one here. I really felt for her for everything she suffered and all she did for herself after escaping the monster - I really did! And I got it that she's terrified of her ex finding her, but instead of trusting Mal, altough she knows that he'll do everything to help her, she keeps her secrets and brings more sorrow upon herself and all those around her. I really wanted to shake her up so badly!
The suspense part was interesting enough, but as I said before, not as much as in the previous book.
I'll keep reading Ms. Simone's books hoping to find the perfect equilibrium between romance, suspense and interesting characters she gave us in Gabriel's and Leah's story.
I'm wandering who's next: Raphael or Chay? *wink*
But I remained disappointed to a degree.
While Gabriel's and Leah's story has kept me avidly reading to find out what is happening, here I wasn't so involved.
It could be because since the beginning the reason of Danielle's secrecy was explained and even if Mal was kept in the dark, there wasn't enough reason to be curious. I also didn't like the twist at the end .
What I liked here was Mal. Even if in deep trouble because of his involvement with covering the murder of the pedophile of the previous book, he's so correct and so supportive. He knows something is not right with his new paralegal, Danielle, but he wants to help and doesn't fight his attraction, even when this is bound to bring him more trouble.
Danielle was the faulty one here. I really felt for her for everything she suffered and all she did for herself after escaping the monster - I really did! And I got it that she's terrified of her ex finding her, but instead of trusting Mal, altough she knows that he'll do everything to help her, she keeps her secrets and brings more sorrow upon herself and all those around her. I really wanted to shake her up so badly!
The suspense part was interesting enough, but as I said before, not as much as in the previous book.
I'll keep reading Ms. Simone's books hoping to find the perfect equilibrium between romance, suspense and interesting characters she gave us in Gabriel's and Leah's story.
I'm wandering who's next: Raphael or Chay? *wink*
September 23, 2013
Rating: 4 1/2 stars
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and the author in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.
Naima grabs the readers attention right away by showing how cruel some men can be to their wives. But we need to remember that we don’t have to take that kind of abuse anymore. This is a story of empowerment and it is also inspirational. I know Danielle is a fictional character but she shows the reader that you can be strong and overcome adversity – love is a great incentive to make that happen.
Just like with book one, my only disappointment is that I didn’t want to put it down when it was time to go to bed or to work. This is already a fast read so you don’t need to speed-read. But you’ll be happy to know that Raphael’s story is next. The bad news is that we have to wait until April 2014 before it comes out. If you’re not good about waiting, the author puts a teaser at the end of this book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and the author in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.
Naima grabs the readers attention right away by showing how cruel some men can be to their wives. But we need to remember that we don’t have to take that kind of abuse anymore. This is a story of empowerment and it is also inspirational. I know Danielle is a fictional character but she shows the reader that you can be strong and overcome adversity – love is a great incentive to make that happen.
Just like with book one, my only disappointment is that I didn’t want to put it down when it was time to go to bed or to work. This is already a fast read so you don’t need to speed-read. But you’ll be happy to know that Raphael’s story is next. The bad news is that we have to wait until April 2014 before it comes out. If you’re not good about waiting, the author puts a teaser at the end of this book.
September 1, 2013
Wow- what a thrilling book from start to finish! You could not help but rout for Elena to be strong enough and to get away from her lousy husband, Alex. She does, but at what cost? Malachim has a law firm and is in need of help since his business world is crashing down around him. Enter Danielle. Can they work together to help heal each others shattered lives or will the past be too much for them?
I received an ARC for an honest review.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
January 4, 2015
I really am enjoying this series. Great writing and plot where the plot is revealed slowly and keeps you guessing.
One thing that did annoy me was Danielle keeping her secrets which put people's lives at risk. I get she suffered years of horrific abuse but jeez Louise, when people start dying you open your mouth and speak up, instead of clamming up tighter than a crab's arse. That irritated the crap out of me and took the shine off the story a bit.
One thing that did annoy me was Danielle keeping her secrets which put people's lives at risk. I get she suffered years of horrific abuse but jeez Louise, when people start dying you open your mouth and speak up, instead of clamming up tighter than a crab's arse. That irritated the crap out of me and took the shine off the story a bit.
September 25, 2013
This is my first read by Naima Simone and definitely will not be my last! Her writing easily drew me in and I got caught up in the story!This seemed like a typical domestic abuse with ex-wife running but it wasn't. There were unexpected happenings along the way. Good suspense and romance. Looking forward to my next read by this author.
March 29, 2016
So those of you who know Naima Simone as a bwwm author should know that this book and the series feature white men and women. Narry a black woman in sight.
That aside, this was a great read. I enjoyed the central plot, a bit 'who done t' and a bit 'sleeping with the enemy'.
That aside, this was a great read. I enjoyed the central plot, a bit 'who done t' and a bit 'sleeping with the enemy'.
February 4, 2017
This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
This book had everything to offer. There was lies, danger, suspense, romance, murder and betrayal. It was an awesome read. It was a thrilling book from start to finish.
This book had everything to offer. There was lies, danger, suspense, romance, murder and betrayal. It was an awesome read. It was a thrilling book from start to finish.
February 2, 2017
Malachim's life is falling apart, in the last year he had to break his engagement to Tara after finding out she spying on him for his father, he and his friends are tangled up in a legal mess after their involvement in a crime has come to light.
Danielle is looking for a fresh start and she has a lot of secrets to hide. So when she takes a chance and applies to be a legal assistant at Malachim's firm she really has nothing to lose. When he decides to hire her, she thinks things are beginning to change for her.
Then she gets mugged leaving the office, and her former boss Pat, his dinner gets robbed. As things begin to spiral out of control, Danielle suspects her secrets are catching up to her. Malachim falls deeper and deeper into a relationship with his secretive assistant. As her secrets start to unfold and people start dying around her will Malachim be able to save her or even trust her when everything comes to light?
I must admit I didn't read the first book, so I am sure I am missing some of the information and the introduction to all the characters from that book. However, I wasn't left feeling lost, and I devoured this book in sitting. I couldn't stop reading it. I loved Danielle and Malachim and I am running to get book 1 Gaberial right now. So if you are looking for a dark romance mystery than look no further!
June 25, 2021
I loved Amal’s character but had some issues with Danielle/Elena as far as the plot. So, her situation didn’t bother me or her reluctance and once she felt comfortable with Mal then it was fine. Here was my issue: if she’s really as terrified of Alex as she says she is, why the hell didn’t she immediately run once she knew he’d found her? Or, more likely, tried to rub but maybe Mal intercepts her and she opens up to him. I mean, after Christopher confirmed he knew her identify and would tell Alex, why on earth would she be so stupid to trust him when he tries to blackmail her? And then, I know she’s upset after the altercation at the apartment, but hanging around u til after the funeral?! Come on—you changed your entire identity and buy a new burner phone every week but you’re going to hang out for a few more days?! She’s supposed to be smarter than this! If she really did make that decision, I’d think she’d confide in Mal immediately and tell him the truth since he’s never given her a reason to doubt him and he so obviously wants to help her.
I couldn’t help it—as this part of the story unfolded, I was just too annoyed her dumb decisions to like her. I let reading because I wanted to learn more about Mal and him overcoming his own Tara/Daddy drama, but I was over Danielle/Elena.
I couldn’t help it—as this part of the story unfolded, I was just too annoyed her dumb decisions to like her. I let reading because I wanted to learn more about Mal and him overcoming his own Tara/Daddy drama, but I was over Danielle/Elena.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2020
Enter at your own risk. A book about a woman who endures devastating marital abuse. Then
runs away to save herself. Elena a former attorney leaves her abusive husband, has him incarcerated
and changes her identity. The struggles she goes through are hard to relate to and makes you wonder
why she put up with it for so long. She runs to Boston and becomes a paralegal. The rest of the
story begins. I found it hard to read the abuse Elena (Danielle) had to endure. There are redeeming
qualities in the story line that show how bravery can change your life. Her new boss a Boston attorney has no idea of her background. But the chemisty they share makes them both vulnerable. This is a heart wrenching story of abuse and terror. The story is written from both POV.
runs away to save herself. Elena a former attorney leaves her abusive husband, has him incarcerated
and changes her identity. The struggles she goes through are hard to relate to and makes you wonder
why she put up with it for so long. She runs to Boston and becomes a paralegal. The rest of the
story begins. I found it hard to read the abuse Elena (Danielle) had to endure. There are redeeming
qualities in the story line that show how bravery can change your life. Her new boss a Boston attorney has no idea of her background. But the chemisty they share makes them both vulnerable. This is a heart wrenching story of abuse and terror. The story is written from both POV.
August 30, 2025
I don't know what was missing with this book, but something was definitely missing. The first chapter or prologue (I honestly don't remember if it was one or the other) was suspenseful. It went downhill from that.
There was no buildup to the romance, no tension there. I at least thought there would be more investigation and commentary from Malachim's friends. I even thought there would be more interaction other than them racing to save the day. I started out with the audiobook and switched to the ebook. The story became boring and the narration was equally as boring.
This book seemed like it should have been good, but it wasn't and I struggled to finish it. I didn't want to chalk up another book to the DNF list.
There was no buildup to the romance, no tension there. I at least thought there would be more investigation and commentary from Malachim's friends. I even thought there would be more interaction other than them racing to save the day. I started out with the audiobook and switched to the ebook. The story became boring and the narration was equally as boring.
This book seemed like it should have been good, but it wasn't and I struggled to finish it. I didn't want to chalk up another book to the DNF list.
June 12, 2017
Great Book
Of course, I'm reading the series of these books out of order. They are true stand alone books. Malachim is a true hero, loved his character. I applaud Danielle for her strength. I loved this story just as much as I loved Raphael's story. Can't wait to read the other stories in this series. This author has a wonderful way of creating a story that keeps you entertained. Love it!
Of course, I'm reading the series of these books out of order. They are true stand alone books. Malachim is a true hero, loved his character. I applaud Danielle for her strength. I loved this story just as much as I loved Raphael's story. Can't wait to read the other stories in this series. This author has a wonderful way of creating a story that keeps you entertained. Love it!
December 6, 2020
Danielle was running as fast as she could from her past, her ex husband and everything she was. When she went to Boston she was determined to start over and one day she decided to apply at a lawyer's office that was having problems of their own and surprisingly she got the job. Mal knew something wasnt right when her resume was bleak but knew prob more than he did. After many attempts of foul play she came clean and had to decide what to do next.
January 28, 2020
Loved the book and all the twist and turns. It makes me want to read about the rest of Malachim's friends.. Maybe in the future.
The only thing I found wrong with this book was that I wish there was more to the ending.
The only thing I found wrong with this book was that I wish there was more to the ending.
May 30, 2020
Just as good as the first, if not a little better. This one kept me on the edge of my seat, first I would think one thing, and the next thing I knew something else was happening. A solid read and a great continuation to the series.
June 26, 2021
3 1/2 Star Read
This book was good but I didn't feel compelled to come back for more. I didn't read book one and maybe that made the difference. I liked both characters but the premise wasn't my favorite.
This book was good but I didn't feel compelled to come back for more. I didn't read book one and maybe that made the difference. I liked both characters but the premise wasn't my favorite.
October 4, 2022
wow! Great Couple and plot twist
This is my favorite of this author. I have been bingeing her books. The characters had depth. The stoy had believable arches and a great culmination. Now i have to read the rest of the series including book one.
This is my favorite of this author. I have been bingeing her books. The characters had depth. The stoy had believable arches and a great culmination. Now i have to read the rest of the series including book one.
October 27, 2022
I might give this another chance one day, but the female narrator on this is bizarre. When she's just narrating, her voice and everything about the way she reads is great. When she voices the female lead, it's intolerable. I am not up for an entire book of annoying.
February 20, 2023
This book consists of 65% verbatim dialogue from the first book in the series. Besides resolving the subplot in the first book, there's nothing here. And, again, I really like the characters, but it's so thin I feel let down.
January 13, 2017
Light suspense, decently written main characters, slimy villain, and a sweet romance... overall, I thought Malachim was a decent read. I liked the story enough to check out Simone's other books.
February 2, 2017
Great
This was a terrific romantic suspense. Malachim & Danielle were great. I loved the dynamic between the 4 guys. Looking forward to more from them.
This was a terrific romantic suspense. Malachim & Danielle were great. I loved the dynamic between the 4 guys. Looking forward to more from them.
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