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Once Upon a Murder #4
The Secrets We Hate: Once Upon a Murder Book 4
Welcome to Black River Falls. The desolate town full of unexplained events that society chooses to forget exists. When the town’s powerful heiress goes missing, these former teammates become the main suspects. Love is a dangerous idea. Especially when
hidden lies remain unspoken
and your life hangs in the balance of destruction.
Once known as the nice guy, Knox Young has lost everything, turning him into a shell of the man he once was. As an environmental engineer, he’s spent most of his adult life fighting between the balance of peace and ruin. Now, he's being questioned about the mysterious disappearance of a woman connected to his past. Amid the chaos, the one constant in his shattered world is his high school love, Harlow Pratt.
Harlow is no stranger to understanding that her unwavering support has been Knox’s saving grace in his darkest moments. As Knox’s grief intensifies, so does Harlow’s desire to protect him. But who is going to protect her? Yet, as they reignite a passionate flame that had once been dimmed by time and hardship, the past refuses to stay buried and every whisper hides a lie that could pull them apart forever.
This thrillingly grim romance reaches into the depths of love, loss, and redemption as they navigate a network of secrets and betrayals, while confronting the harrowing echoes of their past.
** Read the entire series in order for the best
#1 The Secrets We Escape by Sherelle Green
#2 The Secrets We Inflate by Angela Seals
#3 The Secrets We Break by Sheryl Lister
#4 The Secrets We Hate by Elle Wright
Once known as the nice guy, Knox Young has lost everything, turning him into a shell of the man he once was. As an environmental engineer, he’s spent most of his adult life fighting between the balance of peace and ruin. Now, he's being questioned about the mysterious disappearance of a woman connected to his past. Amid the chaos, the one constant in his shattered world is his high school love, Harlow Pratt.
Harlow is no stranger to understanding that her unwavering support has been Knox’s saving grace in his darkest moments. As Knox’s grief intensifies, so does Harlow’s desire to protect him. But who is going to protect her? Yet, as they reignite a passionate flame that had once been dimmed by time and hardship, the past refuses to stay buried and every whisper hides a lie that could pull them apart forever.
This thrillingly grim romance reaches into the depths of love, loss, and redemption as they navigate a network of secrets and betrayals, while confronting the harrowing echoes of their past.
** Read the entire series in order for the best
#1 The Secrets We Escape by Sherelle Green
#2 The Secrets We Inflate by Angela Seals
#3 The Secrets We Break by Sheryl Lister
#4 The Secrets We Hate by Elle Wright
139 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 29, 2024
39 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
About the author
Elle Wright
56 books408 followersBorn and raised in Southeast Michigan near Ann Arbor, Elle learned the importance of reading from her mother. It was also her mother who, later on in her life, gave Elle her first romance novel: Indigo by Beverly Jenkins. From that moment on, Elle became a fan of Ms. Jenkins for life and a lover of all things romance. An old journal she wrote back in college became her first book (which she still wants to publish one day).
Elle is hard at work on her next novel.
Elle is hard at work on her next novel.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
September 27, 2024
What happens when you have a group of friends with one common goal. The same hatred for one person whose family has single handedly ruined everyone’s lives. You get a murder series with secrets, lies, twists and turns. Who‘s responsible for the disappearance of Monique Rivers seems to be the million dollar question and with everyone having a motive and also the last to see her within days/ hours of her disappearance, everyone is a suspect!
Books 1-4 of this authors series covers the lives of Knox, Sinceer, Gavin and Khalil.
Sinceer was married to Monique at one point and she seemed to have him on puppet strings the entire time they were together. Now that he is moving forward and has broken free from her grasp she’s not going down quietly. After a huge blow up at his restaurant grand opening he’s suspect number one in her disappearance.
Khalil thought he found the love of his life and just like that she was taken from him. All roads lead to Monique as the reason why and Khalil won’t rest until justice is served. It helps that he’s a police officer however when he’s one of the last men seen with Monique he’s on the wrong side of right and is now fighting to clear his name just like everyone else.
Gavin cannot stand Monique. Her family is the reason why his lost everything and now that he’s worked blood sweat and tears to regain all that was taken from him, he’ll be damned if Monique will get anywhere near him or his family again.
Knox in my opinion “allegedly” lost the most at the hands of Monique. I say allegedly because no one can prove she’s behind everyone’s downfall, we just KNOW. He believes that she’s responsible for the loss of his entire family in one way or another and I wouldn’t have even been mad if he put a bullet right between her eyes at the funeral 😒
While these four men fight for their innocence or hide their guilt they find love along the way! Knox and Harlow were hands down my favorite couple. The history, the chemistry and the way the author delivered their story had me locked in. I felt the emotional pull between them and was rooting for them to win. Outside of them I felt like the other three couples had a rushed storyline and HEA. I wasn’t all that convinced and the stories could have been much better. Details were missing and I know some of it was intentional but the stories still felt disjointed, specifically Sinceer and Khalil’s
I can’t wait to finish the second half of the series and see who if anyone is responsible for what happened to Monique! At this point it could literally be ANYONE Monique included.
And yes I posted the same review for all four books 😂 because that’s my business.
Books 1-4 of this authors series covers the lives of Knox, Sinceer, Gavin and Khalil.
Sinceer was married to Monique at one point and she seemed to have him on puppet strings the entire time they were together. Now that he is moving forward and has broken free from her grasp she’s not going down quietly. After a huge blow up at his restaurant grand opening he’s suspect number one in her disappearance.
Khalil thought he found the love of his life and just like that she was taken from him. All roads lead to Monique as the reason why and Khalil won’t rest until justice is served. It helps that he’s a police officer however when he’s one of the last men seen with Monique he’s on the wrong side of right and is now fighting to clear his name just like everyone else.
Gavin cannot stand Monique. Her family is the reason why his lost everything and now that he’s worked blood sweat and tears to regain all that was taken from him, he’ll be damned if Monique will get anywhere near him or his family again.
Knox in my opinion “allegedly” lost the most at the hands of Monique. I say allegedly because no one can prove she’s behind everyone’s downfall, we just KNOW. He believes that she’s responsible for the loss of his entire family in one way or another and I wouldn’t have even been mad if he put a bullet right between her eyes at the funeral 😒
While these four men fight for their innocence or hide their guilt they find love along the way! Knox and Harlow were hands down my favorite couple. The history, the chemistry and the way the author delivered their story had me locked in. I felt the emotional pull between them and was rooting for them to win. Outside of them I felt like the other three couples had a rushed storyline and HEA. I wasn’t all that convinced and the stories could have been much better. Details were missing and I know some of it was intentional but the stories still felt disjointed, specifically Sinceer and Khalil’s
I can’t wait to finish the second half of the series and see who if anyone is responsible for what happened to Monique! At this point it could literally be ANYONE Monique included.
And yes I posted the same review for all four books 😂 because that’s my business.
August 1, 2024
Secrets we hate
This was a good story from beginning to end. I loved the love and connection between Harlow and Knox and that she stood by him no matter what. I loved that he finally got his stuff together and completely claimed Harlow as his. I also loved the ending to this story and the segue way leading to the continuation of this series. This story left me with more questions and has me wondering what other secrets are being held close to the chest and which secrets will eventually be revealed.
This was a good story from beginning to end. I loved the love and connection between Harlow and Knox and that she stood by him no matter what. I loved that he finally got his stuff together and completely claimed Harlow as his. I also loved the ending to this story and the segue way leading to the continuation of this series. This story left me with more questions and has me wondering what other secrets are being held close to the chest and which secrets will eventually be revealed.
December 27, 2024
Fans of Ms. Wright’s work know the “Youngs of Ann Arbor” very well. The Secrets We Hate introduces us to a part of Mrs. Young’s family. Victoria Young’s nephew, Knox Young, grew up in Black River Falls. Knox hasn’t gotten over a heartbreaking loss he experienced years ago. The way he dealt with his grief and abandonment impacted his relationship with his true love. Fast forward to the present and death has knocked on his door once again. There is only one person who can comfort him the way he needs it, and that is Harlow Pratt. One impactful thing he said about her was “she made his heart smile even when his face didn’t”.
Harlow has loved Knox since he asked her to be his science partner back in fifth grade. Their friendship grew into more and they always met at their special spot. Despite her and Knox’s separation, they have a life-long connection and are still physically drawn to each other. She loves her job as a forensic accountant and has poured herself into raising her son. She may finally be ready to prioritize herself and her happiness.
The recurring theme in the series is the connection to Monique Rivers’
disappearance. Monique is pure evil. The Secrets We Hate includes the attributes of a great Elle wright book: A sexy, but brooding hero, humor and heartwarming interactions. It also includes elements of suspense. This was a great ending to the first phase of the Once Upon a Murder series. Elle Wright, Sherelle Green, Angela Seals and Sheryl Lister have exceeded expectations with this latest collaboration, and I highly
recommend it. See full review at romanceincolor.org.
Harlow has loved Knox since he asked her to be his science partner back in fifth grade. Their friendship grew into more and they always met at their special spot. Despite her and Knox’s separation, they have a life-long connection and are still physically drawn to each other. She loves her job as a forensic accountant and has poured herself into raising her son. She may finally be ready to prioritize herself and her happiness.
The recurring theme in the series is the connection to Monique Rivers’
disappearance. Monique is pure evil. The Secrets We Hate includes the attributes of a great Elle wright book: A sexy, but brooding hero, humor and heartwarming interactions. It also includes elements of suspense. This was a great ending to the first phase of the Once Upon a Murder series. Elle Wright, Sherelle Green, Angela Seals and Sheryl Lister have exceeded expectations with this latest collaboration, and I highly
recommend it. See full review at romanceincolor.org.
September 5, 2024
Oh dang, “The Secrets We Hate: Once Upon A Murder - Book 4 of 8” was hot as sulfuric acid” ‼️Thank you Ms. Elle we’ve finally making some progress in the Monique Mystery saga 📝🤔‼️Foremost, Halow, Knox & son Chaq are a cute couple, adorable family with a beautiful love story of hope transcending grief to tell their grandchildren someday….yeah, yeah, yada yada, kudos & confetti 🎉 for “Lifetime” movie magic, “black love”, “stand by your man” HEA etc. 😮💨‼️WITAH, sorcery was/is Knox trying to pull⁉️ I can’t be distracted nor won’t be denied (by great D 🍆🤭) be dammed 🤪❗️I need to know why in explicit details this ring (which belongs to the Rivers family) is in your possession⁉️…and please explain this BS (to me) like it’s remedial week at Trump University🤔🥴‼️Oh, it’s game time now 🍿👮🏾🫣…“And if Harlow ever found out my secrets, she would never look at me the same.” Knox, all I ask just don’t begin your statement/confession/testamony with “see what had happened was”🤦🏾♀️🙄. …Four down with four more to go 📚🤓‼️…I sense a premeditated plan orchestrated between four friends to rectify decades of injustices, deaths, humiliation, to finally eliminate their towns enemy, a Rivers😮🤔!
October 19, 2024
Loved It!!
My oh my! BRF holds many secrets. Hopefully we’re getting closer to finally finding out what happened with Monique. I don’t think she has a friend anywhere! She’s such an evil, conniving toxic bish!! I just wonder what secret Knox is holding on to, and if he’ll ever even tell Harlow. He shouldn’t keep anything from her! Especially with all the hell they went through! Anyway, I was delighted to know that Knox is first cousin to the crazy Young clan! I loved that Tristan, Vicki, and Stew made an appearance in the story! I just love the Youngs!!! Thank you Elle Wright, for this amazing story in the series!! On to the next in the series!! ❤️🔥
My oh my! BRF holds many secrets. Hopefully we’re getting closer to finally finding out what happened with Monique. I don’t think she has a friend anywhere! She’s such an evil, conniving toxic bish!! I just wonder what secret Knox is holding on to, and if he’ll ever even tell Harlow. He shouldn’t keep anything from her! Especially with all the hell they went through! Anyway, I was delighted to know that Knox is first cousin to the crazy Young clan! I loved that Tristan, Vicki, and Stew made an appearance in the story! I just love the Youngs!!! Thank you Elle Wright, for this amazing story in the series!! On to the next in the series!! ❤️🔥
August 5, 2024
The Secrets We Hate
Did Knox kill Monique? Now we have to wait and see.
Don't you hate cliffhangers...lol
I'm happy that Knox and Harlow finally found their happily ever after. They had been in love with other for so long, and it was only fitting that they got together. Knox had so much hurt and grief until he was suffocating. He had forgotten how to live. However, Harlow was always there. I'm happy he wised up and decided that she was worth it and so was he. Great story.
Did Knox kill Monique? Now we have to wait and see.
Don't you hate cliffhangers...lol
I'm happy that Knox and Harlow finally found their happily ever after. They had been in love with other for so long, and it was only fitting that they got together. Knox had so much hurt and grief until he was suffocating. He had forgotten how to live. However, Harlow was always there. I'm happy he wised up and decided that she was worth it and so was he. Great story.
August 26, 2024
Oh, My!! 🔥🔥🔥
Alrighty, Then!! I absolutely loved Harlow and Knox! Talk about a childhood love!! That’s what they had! It wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t really hard, either! There were some unmitigated issues, namely, death and grief, that ensued during their relationship. Then there’s “Nique” who is still causing havoc, but this time, with a twist!!
I loved the love between Harlow and Knox! Happy they found their perfect ending…or did they?? Secrets…Secrets…Secrets!! Kudos, Elle!! 💜
Alrighty, Then!! I absolutely loved Harlow and Knox! Talk about a childhood love!! That’s what they had! It wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t really hard, either! There were some unmitigated issues, namely, death and grief, that ensued during their relationship. Then there’s “Nique” who is still causing havoc, but this time, with a twist!!
I loved the love between Harlow and Knox! Happy they found their perfect ending…or did they?? Secrets…Secrets…Secrets!! Kudos, Elle!! 💜
August 23, 2024
Made it to the finish line FOR NOW and I’m still left guessing what the hell happened to Nique. But by the way this story ended I know there’s more to tell and I wouldn’t be surprised if the whole gang didn’t get together and take her evil ass out! I got mad respect for HARLOW because I wouldve been left Knox ass alone. Wasting all my good years but I’m glad he got his shit together and finally gave my girl the life she’s wanted since they were “kids” 💙
August 28, 2024
Vickie J
Knox sister died mysteriously and he have been mourning her over twenty years, Harlow had a crush on him and his sister was also her friend. Knox couldn't stop grieving to have a relationship with Harlow but she was his light and they had a son together the love was there but Harlow couldn't be part time love she wanted it all but he had so many secrets and they are about to come out
Knox sister died mysteriously and he have been mourning her over twenty years, Harlow had a crush on him and his sister was also her friend. Knox couldn't stop grieving to have a relationship with Harlow but she was his light and they had a son together the love was there but Harlow couldn't be part time love she wanted it all but he had so many secrets and they are about to come out
October 10, 2024
whoa
Harlow and Knox!!!!!!!
Knox has been living in darkness since his sister was killed. Harlow has loved him since before she can remember. But that darkness keep them from being together fully. They now share a son and Knox is still not trying to commit. After his father dies he only spirals more.
Harlow decided to put her first and let Knox go.
Will his demons eat him alive? Or will he realize he has more than he has lost?
Harlow and Knox!!!!!!!
Knox has been living in darkness since his sister was killed. Harlow has loved him since before she can remember. But that darkness keep them from being together fully. They now share a son and Knox is still not trying to commit. After his father dies he only spirals more.
Harlow decided to put her first and let Knox go.
Will his demons eat him alive? Or will he realize he has more than he has lost?
September 7, 2024
Excellent read
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. Knox was emotionally damaged for years due to grief. Harlow is the mother of his son and the love of his life. In the midst of murder investigations and secrets. Knox and Harlow reconcile their feelings in their journey to forever love and happiness.
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. Knox was emotionally damaged for years due to grief. Harlow is the mother of his son and the love of his life. In the midst of murder investigations and secrets. Knox and Harlow reconcile their feelings in their journey to forever love and happiness.
October 13, 2024
A forever love
Preacher was his nickname and being broken from hurt was his major issue
Harlow is the love of his life. She was his ride or die and had been for years. A sciene project in school brought them together. His inability to find peace nearly caused him to lose her. Fabulous read with spice and heat.
Preacher was his nickname and being broken from hurt was his major issue
Harlow is the love of his life. She was his ride or die and had been for years. A sciene project in school brought them together. His inability to find peace nearly caused him to lose her. Fabulous read with spice and heat.
January 11, 2025
Grief, you lose more than someone you love
Another quick read. There is so much in this book. Losing yourself because of grief. Trying to find your way out of the darkness. Sometimes you can’t see the light that’s right in front of you because of the darkness. Knox and Harlow have a deep and abiding love which Knox could not see because of his grief. Great read.
Another quick read. There is so much in this book. Losing yourself because of grief. Trying to find your way out of the darkness. Sometimes you can’t see the light that’s right in front of you because of the darkness. Knox and Harlow have a deep and abiding love which Knox could not see because of his grief. Great read.
August 3, 2024
A perfect end to the series, or is it ?
You ladies have done it again, got us all caught up. I am not mad at you. I enjoyed each and every one and true love found or in this case surrended to.
You ladies have done it again, got us all caught up. I am not mad at you. I enjoyed each and every one and true love found or in this case surrended to.
August 6, 2024
The secrets we hate
Very mysterious in the little town. It keeps th door open wondering what is next. Is she dead, is she alive, still doing dirt, if she is alive who will be next to die or destroy. Great mystery who lets of turns.
Very mysterious in the little town. It keeps th door open wondering what is next. Is she dead, is she alive, still doing dirt, if she is alive who will be next to die or destroy. Great mystery who lets of turns.
August 6, 2024
Hiding or Missing
Book four in the series was full of romance, while dealing with grief. Coming full circle was not easy. E!me left us with a neck of a cliffhanger. September can not get here fast enough.
Book four in the series was full of romance, while dealing with grief. Coming full circle was not easy. E!me left us with a neck of a cliffhanger. September can not get here fast enough.
August 24, 2024
Reallyyyyy
This is pure evil. I read all 4 books only to end on a cliffhanger. I can't believe 4 of my favorite authors actually got my undivided attention on one question throughout all of their books.....who unalived the evil fake-haired goldilocks wench!!!
This is pure evil. I read all 4 books only to end on a cliffhanger. I can't believe 4 of my favorite authors actually got my undivided attention on one question throughout all of their books.....who unalived the evil fake-haired goldilocks wench!!!
September 10, 2024
This series has been good from beginning to end. Finding love in the midst of an investigation. Enjoyed Knox and Harlow's story.
October 6, 2024
Okay, this one was a bit different. I liked this version, too, especially the storytelling.
September 21, 2024
Awesome Read
Let me start off by saying that Shaq is crazy, fried bologna is awesome, especially if you are creative with it. Now my mom use to make it for me when I was a kid, before I started making it for myself, but not so much now. She used to make it with cheese and sometimes mustard. It was good by itself as well. Anyway I love all of your versions of the secret but enjoy the soul tides that are forming out of this mystery. Finally a break through. I think all the main men have something to do with it. I'm just saying. ReneeG.
Let me start off by saying that Shaq is crazy, fried bologna is awesome, especially if you are creative with it. Now my mom use to make it for me when I was a kid, before I started making it for myself, but not so much now. She used to make it with cheese and sometimes mustard. It was good by itself as well. Anyway I love all of your versions of the secret but enjoy the soul tides that are forming out of this mystery. Finally a break through. I think all the main men have something to do with it. I'm just saying. ReneeG.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews