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Hiding Secrets
Book II in the Hidden Desires Trilogy --
My world is turned upside down as the secrets of my past unravel in front of me.
Secrets I didn't even know my past had.
Ones that are heartbreaking, painful, and like altering.
I thought by leaving I would gain freedom.
I might have got out, but he will never let me go.
My world is turned upside down as the secrets of my past unravel in front of me.
Secrets I didn't even know my past had.
Ones that are heartbreaking, painful, and like altering.
I thought by leaving I would gain freedom.
I might have got out, but he will never let me go.
- GenresRomance
437 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 16, 2025
15 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
About the author
Ivy Darling
5 books84 followersIvy Darling is a romance indie author by night.
She lives in California with her husband and child, along with their 2 dogs and 3 cats.
If she isn't writing spicy scenes you can catch her reading them instead, or crocheting another beanie for her cats.
She enjoys spending time with her little family as well as the voices in her head that just won't stop talking ( so many voices! ). She hopes that everyone enjoys her stories and gets something out of them, may it be laughs, tears, or the tingles.
She lives in California with her husband and child, along with their 2 dogs and 3 cats.
If she isn't writing spicy scenes you can catch her reading them instead, or crocheting another beanie for her cats.
She enjoys spending time with her little family as well as the voices in her head that just won't stop talking ( so many voices! ). She hopes that everyone enjoys her stories and gets something out of them, may it be laughs, tears, or the tingles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
June 17, 2025
Did I rush to download this? Darn right I did. Did I start it immediately? Another resounding yes. After the last book had that phenomenal ending, naturally I needed to know what happened, whom, where, what??!!
Straight into it, Elliott/Eden arrives at her destination with the grumpy one 🤭 Hunter, steps out to meet them at a house she has never been to. The emotions our FMC goes through at this stage are to be expected. Ivy then leads us through, Elliott telling her side. The two guys Hunter and Marcus, are left to pick up the pieces, given that Kam stayed in Everton to uncover as much as he could. Marcus is the grumpy biker, who doesn’t really want to be involved (we know that won’t last tee hee!) Marcus is also a whizz with the IT side and unearths Elliott’s file, suffice to say it’s most definitely not sunshine and rainbows. This fairground ride was a bumpy one, we jump back to Everton and the evil Samuel a few times, though generally it’s Elliott’s story with the guys and the spice was en par 🫦 and once again that dastardly lady (Ivy…I’m talking about Ivy) leaves us with another cliffhanger dum! D’dum!
Honestly, it followed on perfectly from Finding Secrets even though I had to do a quick re-cap of that one just before I started this. The writing flowed well, the story told in multi POVs, the three guys are just so delicious, I can understand Elliott being enthralled, again Ivy’s writing giving you effective visuals. I can’t wait for ‘Hunting Secrets’ ahem…Ivy if you see this 😉
Straight into it, Elliott/Eden arrives at her destination with the grumpy one 🤭 Hunter, steps out to meet them at a house she has never been to. The emotions our FMC goes through at this stage are to be expected. Ivy then leads us through, Elliott telling her side. The two guys Hunter and Marcus, are left to pick up the pieces, given that Kam stayed in Everton to uncover as much as he could. Marcus is the grumpy biker, who doesn’t really want to be involved (we know that won’t last tee hee!) Marcus is also a whizz with the IT side and unearths Elliott’s file, suffice to say it’s most definitely not sunshine and rainbows. This fairground ride was a bumpy one, we jump back to Everton and the evil Samuel a few times, though generally it’s Elliott’s story with the guys and the spice was en par 🫦 and once again that dastardly lady (Ivy…I’m talking about Ivy) leaves us with another cliffhanger dum! D’dum!
Honestly, it followed on perfectly from Finding Secrets even though I had to do a quick re-cap of that one just before I started this. The writing flowed well, the story told in multi POVs, the three guys are just so delicious, I can understand Elliott being enthralled, again Ivy’s writing giving you effective visuals. I can’t wait for ‘Hunting Secrets’ ahem…Ivy if you see this 😉
August 3, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
💜 Dark Cult Romance
💙 MMMF (yes, mhmm)
🩵 Trauma
🩷 An MMC says; "Fuck it!" 🤤
Spicy. Spicy. Spicy.
I loved book one, I liked book two.
There was a predictably with book two that I did not get with book one. There was an obsession with book one in which I almost had with book two but it fell slightly flat for me.
I'm waiting for book three to become an obsession because I need it. I need the full circle now.
I think I might have a new fav MMC, Marcus.
SPOILER: EXTRACT
He gives me one last look, his eyes hooding, “Fuck it.” He growls. He slams his full lips on mine and my brain fizzes out.
🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
💜 Dark Cult Romance
💙 MMMF (yes, mhmm)
🩵 Trauma
🩷 An MMC says; "Fuck it!" 🤤
Spicy. Spicy. Spicy.
I loved book one, I liked book two.
There was a predictably with book two that I did not get with book one. There was an obsession with book one in which I almost had with book two but it fell slightly flat for me.
I'm waiting for book three to become an obsession because I need it. I need the full circle now.
I think I might have a new fav MMC, Marcus.
SPOILER: EXTRACT
He gives me one last look, his eyes hooding, “Fuck it.” He growls. He slams his full lips on mine and my brain fizzes out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2025
If you haven't read book one yet - go read that and then come straight back here.
I feel like Ivy is trying to kill me with cliffhangers. I'm not sure my nerves can take anymore. I had to stop reading to message her, I just cannot get over what happens in this book.
I cannot get enough of the new characters - Hunter and Marcus. This is a MMMF, why choose, dark romance.
This book continues to dive into the cult, and religious trauma. make sure you read those trigger warnings!
Thank you to Ivy Darling for an advanced copy.
I feel like Ivy is trying to kill me with cliffhangers. I'm not sure my nerves can take anymore. I had to stop reading to message her, I just cannot get over what happens in this book.
I cannot get enough of the new characters - Hunter and Marcus. This is a MMMF, why choose, dark romance.
This book continues to dive into the cult, and religious trauma. make sure you read those trigger warnings!
Thank you to Ivy Darling for an advanced copy.
October 2, 2025
4.0 ⭐️
June 24, 2025
It just gets better and better! Book one set up this story so well, it completely sucked me in. Then book 2 comes and draws me back in, even deeper. I am obsessed with Elliott’s relationship with these three men. They each offer her something different and care for her so much, as well as the cause they are fighting for. Seriously Ivy’s writing is top notch. I cannot wait for book 3 in this trilogy to see how everything unfolds and hopefully read that some people get what they deserve.
⚠️ CHECK TW’S ⚠️
⚠️ CHECK TW’S ⚠️
July 15, 2025
Whoo! Another thrilling ride.
We start off right after book one, Elliott/Eden is taken to a safe house with Marcus and Hunter. They are trying to help her understand what happened but she's so withdrawn from the trauma. She eventually opens up to Hunter. while Marcus stays closed off. We learn more about the relationship between Kameron, Hunter and Marcus while Elliott learns more about her past. Samuel is still on the hunt for her and is doing everything he can to find her. When the operation becomes compromised, everyone must fight to survive. Ends on a cliffhanger.
We start off right after book one, Elliott/Eden is taken to a safe house with Marcus and Hunter. They are trying to help her understand what happened but she's so withdrawn from the trauma. She eventually opens up to Hunter. while Marcus stays closed off. We learn more about the relationship between Kameron, Hunter and Marcus while Elliott learns more about her past. Samuel is still on the hunt for her and is doing everything he can to find her. When the operation becomes compromised, everyone must fight to survive. Ends on a cliffhanger.
July 18, 2025
I'm not ok... THERE! THAT SHOULD BE MY REVIEW BECAUSE THAT ENDING WAS CRUEL!
This trilogy keeps getting better, and somehow darker. The story picks up right where book 1 ended, and let me tell you something: don't be fooled by the butterflies you will feel and the tender moments, because Ivy Darling will rip them away and shatter your heart!
The topics that this book deals with are really hard, and we get to know more about our beloved characters. Hiding Secrets will reveal more information about Elliot's past life, and about the story behind the three gorgeous guys that will become her new world.
I love having the POV of Samuel; it makes me hate him even more, but you get to experience his evil mind up front. I'm obsessed with these books, and I'll need the final one ASAP; otherwise, I'll continue to cry. Thank you, Ivy Darling, for the heartbreak and the ARC opportunity.
This trilogy keeps getting better, and somehow darker. The story picks up right where book 1 ended, and let me tell you something: don't be fooled by the butterflies you will feel and the tender moments, because Ivy Darling will rip them away and shatter your heart!
The topics that this book deals with are really hard, and we get to know more about our beloved characters. Hiding Secrets will reveal more information about Elliot's past life, and about the story behind the three gorgeous guys that will become her new world.
I love having the POV of Samuel; it makes me hate him even more, but you get to experience his evil mind up front. I'm obsessed with these books, and I'll need the final one ASAP; otherwise, I'll continue to cry. Thank you, Ivy Darling, for the heartbreak and the ARC opportunity.
June 27, 2025
I’m utterly speechless…. Will be back for a review once I have processed this story…. Holy fuck the end and epilogue….im shook
🔥 Book Review 🔥
Hiding Secrets by Ivy Darling (Book 2 in the Finding Secrets series)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I was completely locked in! This book had me turning pages like crazy — the mystery, the tension, the chemistry… whew 😮💨 Ivy Darling seriously delivered. And that CLIFFHANGER?! 😱 Holy crap. Be ready for your jaw to drop.
If you loved Finding Secrets, you’re not ready for this wild ride. I need book 3 like, yesterday 😭
🔥 Book Review 🔥
Hiding Secrets by Ivy Darling (Book 2 in the Finding Secrets series)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I was completely locked in! This book had me turning pages like crazy — the mystery, the tension, the chemistry… whew 😮💨 Ivy Darling seriously delivered. And that CLIFFHANGER?! 😱 Holy crap. Be ready for your jaw to drop.
If you loved Finding Secrets, you’re not ready for this wild ride. I need book 3 like, yesterday 😭
July 13, 2025
Obsessed! The moment I opened the book I couldn't put it down, I needed to know what happened next, especially after the ending of the first book. It gave me all the feelings and so much more. Its everything I look for in a book and so much more!
July 16, 2025
Listen, I need you all to drop what you’re reading and pick up this series right now. The first book sets the stage, and then this book drags you in so deep that you don’t ever want to come up for air. I devoured both, yes both!, of these books in less than 24 hours, they were that good.
Can we talk about trauma and recovery?!? This book is filled with so much of each and simply could not put it down. Trust me, there is a lot to unpack here. More than we even realized. Indoctrination runs deep and grief and healing is never a linear process, as these 4 main characters can attest to.
I loved getting more POV in this one, especially Samuel’s and each of the guys. And let’s talk about these fine men, shall we?!
Kameron is the golden retriever type that you can’t help but fall for. But make no mistake, he will absolutely burn the world for those he loves, and that’s exactly what he intends to do!
Hunter- my man. The stoic leader, with a soft heart and a dirty mouth! The way that this man takes charge, let me tell you… he can have me on my knees in a heartbeat!
And Marcus, dear sweet Marcus. The way he finally allowed himself to see through his own trauma and help Elliott with hers was both heart breaking and endearing.
The way these men love each other, and now Elliot, so fiercely and protectively, is something I cannot get over. And I don’t want to!
And with an ending that left me completely shattered once again, I need book 3 in my hands immediately! Oh, and a promise for a HEA and certain someone’s to be okay!!! Please?!?
Can we talk about trauma and recovery?!? This book is filled with so much of each and simply could not put it down. Trust me, there is a lot to unpack here. More than we even realized. Indoctrination runs deep and grief and healing is never a linear process, as these 4 main characters can attest to.
I loved getting more POV in this one, especially Samuel’s and each of the guys. And let’s talk about these fine men, shall we?!
Kameron is the golden retriever type that you can’t help but fall for. But make no mistake, he will absolutely burn the world for those he loves, and that’s exactly what he intends to do!
Hunter- my man. The stoic leader, with a soft heart and a dirty mouth! The way that this man takes charge, let me tell you… he can have me on my knees in a heartbeat!
And Marcus, dear sweet Marcus. The way he finally allowed himself to see through his own trauma and help Elliott with hers was both heart breaking and endearing.
The way these men love each other, and now Elliot, so fiercely and protectively, is something I cannot get over. And I don’t want to!
And with an ending that left me completely shattered once again, I need book 3 in my hands immediately! Oh, and a promise for a HEA and certain someone’s to be okay!!! Please?!?
July 12, 2025
Reading Hiding Secrets is an experience I wish I could have monitored my heart rate through. Gripping. Intense. Emotionally traumatizing. We are thrown straight into the action where Finding Secrets left us, dangling on the very edge of THAT cliffhanger. Elliott and Marcus flee the cult nightmare that is Everton, leaving behind Kam and a whole lot of questions. The main one being, why the hell isn't he coming with you?!
Elliot's safety is priority, and Mr No-Nonsense Marcus ensures this by introducing her to the safe house, and third party member of the HKM, Hunter. Isolation is Elliot's preferred method of processing the absolute horrors she has endured, however Hunter and Marcus set a leading example of stepping up and supporting her. I really enjoyed how this created space for us to be introduced more to the characters of Hunter and Marcus, and the detail with which they are created had me wanting to dig through their past and know exactly what made them who they are today.
Everybody is feeling the absence of Kam, both on the pages and off, and whilst the trio piece together a plan to ensure he returns in one piece, their own individual healing brings them closer together than anyone thought. It's giving grumpy vs. sunshine vs. Daddy energy. And I am absolutely here for it! As they entangle through their healing, their trauma, their own personal demons, it's an emotional experience that will sometimes leave you full of hope, and at other times will make you question if there is ever truly a path out of the dark.
In true Ivy style, this book has brilliant characters, a gripping storyline, and the ability to make you question your life decision within the last several pages. It's dark, it's gritty, and I already can't wait to read it again in preparation for the next book!
*Please ensure to read the Trigger Warnings before reading this book*
Elliot's safety is priority, and Mr No-Nonsense Marcus ensures this by introducing her to the safe house, and third party member of the HKM, Hunter. Isolation is Elliot's preferred method of processing the absolute horrors she has endured, however Hunter and Marcus set a leading example of stepping up and supporting her. I really enjoyed how this created space for us to be introduced more to the characters of Hunter and Marcus, and the detail with which they are created had me wanting to dig through their past and know exactly what made them who they are today.
Everybody is feeling the absence of Kam, both on the pages and off, and whilst the trio piece together a plan to ensure he returns in one piece, their own individual healing brings them closer together than anyone thought. It's giving grumpy vs. sunshine vs. Daddy energy. And I am absolutely here for it! As they entangle through their healing, their trauma, their own personal demons, it's an emotional experience that will sometimes leave you full of hope, and at other times will make you question if there is ever truly a path out of the dark.
In true Ivy style, this book has brilliant characters, a gripping storyline, and the ability to make you question your life decision within the last several pages. It's dark, it's gritty, and I already can't wait to read it again in preparation for the next book!
*Please ensure to read the Trigger Warnings before reading this book*
July 8, 2025
4.5 stars
That ending!!! PLEASE GIVE ME BOOK 3 ASAP!!!
This is the second book in the Hidden Desires Trilogy and I was chomping at the bit for this book after the ending in book 1. Ms. Darling you do love to leave us on the edge of the cliff with scraps of what's to come and I both love and hate it!
In book one there is a little build up to why choose, so in book 2 we finally get more of the Hunter and Marcus. Hunter - the businessman with a soft spot. Marcus -wounded inside and hiding behind his asshole exterior. I was eating up Marcus' bratty behaviour, the tension between him and Elliot was building and you just knew it had to go somewhere good.
This book has an FMC that is healing and coming out of her shell, and 3 very different MMCs. All are heavily protective of her and giving serious "Our Girl" vibes. There's some action, and lots of super hot spice.
Tropes:
-dark romance
-why choose (MMMF)
-trauma healing
-secret societies
Book three (and the finale of this trilogy) - Hunting Secrets - is coming soon and I think it's going to be the best one yet!
Thank you so much to the author for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
That ending!!! PLEASE GIVE ME BOOK 3 ASAP!!!
This is the second book in the Hidden Desires Trilogy and I was chomping at the bit for this book after the ending in book 1. Ms. Darling you do love to leave us on the edge of the cliff with scraps of what's to come and I both love and hate it!
In book one there is a little build up to why choose, so in book 2 we finally get more of the Hunter and Marcus. Hunter - the businessman with a soft spot. Marcus -wounded inside and hiding behind his asshole exterior. I was eating up Marcus' bratty behaviour, the tension between him and Elliot was building and you just knew it had to go somewhere good.
This book has an FMC that is healing and coming out of her shell, and 3 very different MMCs. All are heavily protective of her and giving serious "Our Girl" vibes. There's some action, and lots of super hot spice.
Tropes:
-dark romance
-why choose (MMMF)
-trauma healing
-secret societies
Book three (and the finale of this trilogy) - Hunting Secrets - is coming soon and I think it's going to be the best one yet!
Thank you so much to the author for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
July 16, 2025
I have not voraciously guzzled a book like this in so freaking long. It’s very rare for me to buy a hard copy of a book series and take up precious shelf space but I will be with complete confidence. The chokehold this story has on me is palpable.
This story starts off where the last one ended, with Elliot running after she was rescued by Marcus, leaving Kameron behind in Cultsville. Beyond that I can’t say a whole lot without giving it away. I will say that it is a why choose situations between Elliot, Kam, Hunter and Marcus. Samuel, the creepy brother/cult leader descends further into madness. Elliot grows as a person and takes her power back and the guys are still working hard to take the cult down. This story is gripping, dark and I’m so antsy for the next book.
I do suggest to reading the triggers. There are things that happen in these books that I’ve never experienced before and they’re dark. These books may be hard for people that have experienced CSA, adult SA, cult. None of this happens between the main characters, but to them.
Ivy Darling, I’m obsessed, the next book can’t come soon enough.
This story starts off where the last one ended, with Elliot running after she was rescued by Marcus, leaving Kameron behind in Cultsville. Beyond that I can’t say a whole lot without giving it away. I will say that it is a why choose situations between Elliot, Kam, Hunter and Marcus. Samuel, the creepy brother/cult leader descends further into madness. Elliot grows as a person and takes her power back and the guys are still working hard to take the cult down. This story is gripping, dark and I’m so antsy for the next book.
I do suggest to reading the triggers. There are things that happen in these books that I’ve never experienced before and they’re dark. These books may be hard for people that have experienced CSA, adult SA, cult. None of this happens between the main characters, but to them.
Ivy Darling, I’m obsessed, the next book can’t come soon enough.
July 16, 2025
REVIEW for Hiding Secrets by @ivydarlingauthor
☆☆☆☆☆
♡♡♡♡
Praise the Divine! We are back in Everton people! The way I have waited for book two and was not dissapointed in the slightest! Ivy DELIVERS an absolute banger with this continuation of book 1. I devoured this in 24 hours and am now left just hanging on another gnarly cliff 🙃
This book follows Elliott, Kameron, Hunter, Marcus and of course the man I love to hate Samuel. Elliott in book two dives deeper in to her past and has several moments of uncovering some truths about her. The book also explores some new flames while pouring gasoline on existing flames and BOY OH BOY the spiceeeeeee within these pages will have you clutching your pearls ladies!
I dont want to give too much away as I think everyone should absolutely dive in to this amazingly twisted world, but it does have some why choose, it is a DARK Romance, and as previously mentioned a gnarly cliff hanger. So reader beware as your mental health does in fact matter ❤️
I can't wait to see how Ivy ties up this series with a bow for us in book 3 but for now I am.grateful she provided such an amazing continuation in book2 ✨️👍
☆☆☆☆☆
♡♡♡♡
Praise the Divine! We are back in Everton people! The way I have waited for book two and was not dissapointed in the slightest! Ivy DELIVERS an absolute banger with this continuation of book 1. I devoured this in 24 hours and am now left just hanging on another gnarly cliff 🙃
This book follows Elliott, Kameron, Hunter, Marcus and of course the man I love to hate Samuel. Elliott in book two dives deeper in to her past and has several moments of uncovering some truths about her. The book also explores some new flames while pouring gasoline on existing flames and BOY OH BOY the spiceeeeeee within these pages will have you clutching your pearls ladies!
I dont want to give too much away as I think everyone should absolutely dive in to this amazingly twisted world, but it does have some why choose, it is a DARK Romance, and as previously mentioned a gnarly cliff hanger. So reader beware as your mental health does in fact matter ❤️
I can't wait to see how Ivy ties up this series with a bow for us in book 3 but for now I am.grateful she provided such an amazing continuation in book2 ✨️👍
June 22, 2025
Psychological drama ✅
Romantic suspense ✅
Dark past, possibly abusive ex ✅
Emotional unraveling with mystery undertones ✅
⸻
💔 What’s Working:
• Emotional Intrigue Right Off the Bat: The idea of discovering secrets from your own past—especially ones you didn’t even know existed—immediately makes you lean in. It suggests layers of trauma, betrayal, or maybe even family lies, all of which are delicious fuel for dark romance or drama.
• Tension Between Escape and Control: The line “I might have got out, but he will never let me go” is powerful. It’s a hint at a haunting relationship or abusive dynamic that’s still lingering. That’s the kind of high-stakes emotional tension readers of this genre live for.
• Tone Feels Genuinely Raw: The voice has a sort of quiet devastation to it. It’s not flashy—it’s hurting. Which works well if this story is more introspective and slow-burn emotional than outright smutty or action-heavy.
🖤 Final Rating:
⭐️4/5 – Solid emotional potential. It’s evocative, emotionally raw, and hints at deep trauma and tension.
This is my honest ARC review 🔥
Romantic suspense ✅
Dark past, possibly abusive ex ✅
Emotional unraveling with mystery undertones ✅
⸻
💔 What’s Working:
• Emotional Intrigue Right Off the Bat: The idea of discovering secrets from your own past—especially ones you didn’t even know existed—immediately makes you lean in. It suggests layers of trauma, betrayal, or maybe even family lies, all of which are delicious fuel for dark romance or drama.
• Tension Between Escape and Control: The line “I might have got out, but he will never let me go” is powerful. It’s a hint at a haunting relationship or abusive dynamic that’s still lingering. That’s the kind of high-stakes emotional tension readers of this genre live for.
• Tone Feels Genuinely Raw: The voice has a sort of quiet devastation to it. It’s not flashy—it’s hurting. Which works well if this story is more introspective and slow-burn emotional than outright smutty or action-heavy.
🖤 Final Rating:
⭐️4/5 – Solid emotional potential. It’s evocative, emotionally raw, and hints at deep trauma and tension.
This is my honest ARC review 🔥
June 25, 2025
After the cliffhanger in book 1, I instantly dropped everything to start this as soon as it hit my inbox.
Mind blown isn’t even the right way to explain how I feel.
I am absolutely wrecked! This cliffhanger is even more excruciating than the last. 😳😭
I might need help picking my jaw up off the floor…
Book 2 dives right in where we left off in book 1.
The first half of this book is full of healing and identifying trauma. The main characters begin to forge bonds that grow into more than friendship.
While Elliot is healing and ducked away in a safe location with Marcus and Hunter, Kam is still deep into his mission to bring down Everton.
While at times it feels like maybe progress will be made, I was left with the never ending suspicion that something will go wrong. A constant apprehension and wondering when the other shoe would fall while simultaneously devouring all the romantic developments. I ate it up!
If you loved book 1, you’re going to love this even more!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Mind blown isn’t even the right way to explain how I feel.
I am absolutely wrecked! This cliffhanger is even more excruciating than the last. 😳😭
I might need help picking my jaw up off the floor…
Book 2 dives right in where we left off in book 1.
The first half of this book is full of healing and identifying trauma. The main characters begin to forge bonds that grow into more than friendship.
While Elliot is healing and ducked away in a safe location with Marcus and Hunter, Kam is still deep into his mission to bring down Everton.
While at times it feels like maybe progress will be made, I was left with the never ending suspicion that something will go wrong. A constant apprehension and wondering when the other shoe would fall while simultaneously devouring all the romantic developments. I ate it up!
If you loved book 1, you’re going to love this even more!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
July 2, 2025
This trilogy is becoming one of my favorite trilogies. Like I said before if you loved/liked The Handmaid Tales you will love this book. This book is secret society/cult, corruption, dark romance, and angst. The trilogy is a why-choose and I do not like why choose, HOWEVER, these books are making love why-choose. I absolutely love the way Ivy writes. The book just moves and flows that you don’t realize you just spent the last 3 hours reading when you feel like you only have been reading for 30 minutes. I could not put this book down nor did I want to put the book down. The only thing worse than finishing this book is not being able to immediately start book 3. The cliff hanger at the end of this book!! Like what?? I also love the organic relationship between Elliot, Kam, Marcus, and Hunter. Nothing is forced everything is organic and just happens. If you haven’t already read book 1 go read it then make sure you pick this book up on July 16th when it comes out… Then we can wait together for book 3 in the book hangover that you will be in.
July 17, 2025
Happy Release Day, @ivydarlingauthor
If you plan on reading Hiding Secrets, you MUST read Finding Secrets first. Please check the trigger warnings before reading as readers can find some sensitive material.
Hiding Secrets was everything I was hoping for! Right where Finding Secrets ends Hiding Secrets starts. I loved getting to know Marcus and Hunter. Marcus is definitely my baby... even tho he drove me crazy a time or two, but he's just so deserving of all the forehead kisses. I wasn't expecting to see Kameron as much, but I was really happy to see him quite a bit. As for Hunter, well, he knows how to put Marcus in his place when needed, and the way he loves Marcus is the sweetest. I just love all of them together! Holly smokes the SPICE WAS SPICY! Definitely didn't lack in any aspect. I can say this book had me stressing and on the edge of my seat a few times. BUT THAT ENDINGGG! AH! I knew this was going to end on a cliffhanger, but I wasn't expecting THAT!
Ivy, you absolutely did an amazing job, and I still can't get over it.
If you plan on reading Hiding Secrets, you MUST read Finding Secrets first. Please check the trigger warnings before reading as readers can find some sensitive material.
Hiding Secrets was everything I was hoping for! Right where Finding Secrets ends Hiding Secrets starts. I loved getting to know Marcus and Hunter. Marcus is definitely my baby... even tho he drove me crazy a time or two, but he's just so deserving of all the forehead kisses. I wasn't expecting to see Kameron as much, but I was really happy to see him quite a bit. As for Hunter, well, he knows how to put Marcus in his place when needed, and the way he loves Marcus is the sweetest. I just love all of them together! Holly smokes the SPICE WAS SPICY! Definitely didn't lack in any aspect. I can say this book had me stressing and on the edge of my seat a few times. BUT THAT ENDINGGG! AH! I knew this was going to end on a cliffhanger, but I wasn't expecting THAT!
Ivy, you absolutely did an amazing job, and I still can't get over it.
July 11, 2025
“There’s a lot in me that is broken, Kam. You shouldn’t have to cut yourself on my broken pieces. You don’t have to bleed for me.”
“I would let all the blood drain from my body if it meant you were safe and happy.”
Once again, I want to thank Ivy for the honor of arc reading this book. After book one, I needed more and more I got. We’ve delved further into the events of book one as well as Elliot’s backstory and good god, the tears. The tears for some of these characters. And the love that these boys show her. Really show her is just.. amazing. Sweet. Makes me tear up. Marcus is my man. I love me a good grumpy broody man 😩 But that cliffhanger. Cliffhanger was not nice and I’m crying big fat tears. I need book three STAT. I’m scared but excited to see how everything wraps up.
If you haven’t read this already, make sure to start with book one and read the trigger warnings. This is a book with heavy themes.
“I would let all the blood drain from my body if it meant you were safe and happy.”
Once again, I want to thank Ivy for the honor of arc reading this book. After book one, I needed more and more I got. We’ve delved further into the events of book one as well as Elliot’s backstory and good god, the tears. The tears for some of these characters. And the love that these boys show her. Really show her is just.. amazing. Sweet. Makes me tear up. Marcus is my man. I love me a good grumpy broody man 😩 But that cliffhanger. Cliffhanger was not nice and I’m crying big fat tears. I need book three STAT. I’m scared but excited to see how everything wraps up.
If you haven’t read this already, make sure to start with book one and read the trigger warnings. This is a book with heavy themes.
June 27, 2025
Hiding secrets is the second book within the hidden desires trilogy. Following off from book one, finding secrets. After Kameron helped free Elliot. Kam stays behind to keep with the mission, Marcus takes Elliot to their safe house. Where she meets Hunter. For the first few days Elliot is in a trauma daze, full of panic, fear and nightmares.
You see the dynamic relationship between Kam, Hunter and Marcus, how they met and how their relationship started. Each one has a different relationship with Elliot, they feel at different stages.
I knew it was going to end with another cliffhanger, ready for the last instalment. But I wasn’t not expecting the way it ended. I had a feeling that evil Samuel was going to get his grubby hands back on her but the events leading up, I wasn’t expecting it. I can’t wait for the next part.
You see the dynamic relationship between Kam, Hunter and Marcus, how they met and how their relationship started. Each one has a different relationship with Elliot, they feel at different stages.
I knew it was going to end with another cliffhanger, ready for the last instalment. But I wasn’t not expecting the way it ended. I had a feeling that evil Samuel was going to get his grubby hands back on her but the events leading up, I wasn’t expecting it. I can’t wait for the next part.
July 2, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
Hiding Secrets by Ivy Darling
Quick Look-
Format: e ARC
Genre: romantic suspense
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Recommend: yes!! (After you read the first one)
Full review-
The suspense…. The plot….. the romance…. Perfection!!! I absolutely adored this book even more than the first! Elliot is strong AF and I admire her for trusting her heart and fighting against what the Divine is telling her in her head. This is a perfect follow up to the first one and I already can’t wait for book #3!! The way these men treat her cannot be matched- Kameron with his heart on his sleeve, Hunter with his need to be there for her, and Marcus for knowing what she needed when she herself didn’t know. The plot twist was semi-predictable to me but I cannot wait to see what happens next.
Hiding Secrets by Ivy Darling
Quick Look-
Format: e ARC
Genre: romantic suspense
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Recommend: yes!! (After you read the first one)
Full review-
The suspense…. The plot….. the romance…. Perfection!!! I absolutely adored this book even more than the first! Elliot is strong AF and I admire her for trusting her heart and fighting against what the Divine is telling her in her head. This is a perfect follow up to the first one and I already can’t wait for book #3!! The way these men treat her cannot be matched- Kameron with his heart on his sleeve, Hunter with his need to be there for her, and Marcus for knowing what she needed when she herself didn’t know. The plot twist was semi-predictable to me but I cannot wait to see what happens next.
July 4, 2025
I had the privilege of being an Arc reader for this. I DID NOT expect to have all of the emotions I did while reading this.
This book took me through soo many emotions!! I felt happy, pissed off, shocked and sad.
Reading how Elliott was starting to get a taste of life outside of Everton just for it to be ripped from her at the end left my heart on the ground!!! I knew something was up when Marcus was finally able to get I to the security at Everton and the same day their systems went down at their HQ office. Then for Kam to have a surprise visit from Samuel and Josh telling him they bumped up his date to select a chosen!!! Everything was going way too good before this. I knew something was going to happen but didn’t expect that then of events at the end!
Mrs Ivy ma’am, we need book 3 pronto!!!
This book took me through soo many emotions!! I felt happy, pissed off, shocked and sad.
Reading how Elliott was starting to get a taste of life outside of Everton just for it to be ripped from her at the end left my heart on the ground!!! I knew something was up when Marcus was finally able to get I to the security at Everton and the same day their systems went down at their HQ office. Then for Kam to have a surprise visit from Samuel and Josh telling him they bumped up his date to select a chosen!!! Everything was going way too good before this. I knew something was going to happen but didn’t expect that then of events at the end!
Mrs Ivy ma’am, we need book 3 pronto!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2025
This one picks up right where Hidden Desires left off, diving even deeper into trauma, recovery, and all the messy, emotional fallout that comes with uncovering your past.
The themes are heavy — cult trauma, secrets unraveling, and trying to rebuild trust in a world that’s still so unsafe. But what really carried the story for me? The boyfriends were BOYFRIENDING. The support, the softness, the “talk you through it” moments — that’s where the emotional payoff hit hardest.
Short chapters made this an easy binge, even when the pacing lulled in the middle. Some scenes felt like necessary healing, but the momentum from book one wasn’t quite the same here. Still, the emotional depth makes up for a slower plot at times.
A solid second installment that gives space to breathe, feel, and heal — just know it’s more about surviving than action.
The themes are heavy — cult trauma, secrets unraveling, and trying to rebuild trust in a world that’s still so unsafe. But what really carried the story for me? The boyfriends were BOYFRIENDING. The support, the softness, the “talk you through it” moments — that’s where the emotional payoff hit hardest.
Short chapters made this an easy binge, even when the pacing lulled in the middle. Some scenes felt like necessary healing, but the momentum from book one wasn’t quite the same here. Still, the emotional depth makes up for a slower plot at times.
A solid second installment that gives space to breathe, feel, and heal — just know it’s more about surviving than action.
July 11, 2025
The second book continues where book 1 leaves off. It is a race to get away from all that happened in the first one. We see Elliot really showing her true self even to herself. This mostly has Hunter and Marcus in it and we see relationships growing. This story quickly pulls you in and keeps you glued to it. The story had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Yes, the story has some M/M in it but all the heated scenes were beautifully written. I love the personalities of both Hunter and Marcus. Of course we have already fallen for Kameron’s character. This feels like a journey that you are walking alongside of these amazing characters. There are some possible triggers that some may need to watch out for. We get to the end of this book and talk about explosive. This ending has me absolutely excited to see what is going to happen next.
Read
July 17, 2025I both loved and hated this book. Loved it for the complex characters and mildly stressful story, and hated it for being so real with the healing.
Hiding Secrets follows on almost exactly where Finding Secrets ended. With a great blend of POV's that flowed so seamlessly, I absolutely devoured this book much like I did with the first. Never thought I'd be a huge fan of Marcus or Hunter when Kam was such a sweetie in the first book but holy heck, those boys are something else. And their approach to helping Elliot had me bawling. Then there was the spice which was *chef kiss*. I just want them to all live happily ever after but alas this is book 2/3 so cliff-hanger ending was inevitable.
Absolutely recommend sinking your teeth into the Hidden Desires series, but maybe bring a tissue and some comfort snacks. Cannot wait for the finale!
Hiding Secrets follows on almost exactly where Finding Secrets ended. With a great blend of POV's that flowed so seamlessly, I absolutely devoured this book much like I did with the first. Never thought I'd be a huge fan of Marcus or Hunter when Kam was such a sweetie in the first book but holy heck, those boys are something else. And their approach to helping Elliot had me bawling. Then there was the spice which was *chef kiss*. I just want them to all live happily ever after but alas this is book 2/3 so cliff-hanger ending was inevitable.
Absolutely recommend sinking your teeth into the Hidden Desires series, but maybe bring a tissue and some comfort snacks. Cannot wait for the finale!
June 21, 2025
Just finished Hiding Secrets by Ivy Darling. It continues on from where Finding Secrets leaves off. This book is centred more between Elliot and her rescuers Marcus the hacker genius who doesn’t overly like her because of his past issues and Hunter who immediately has been taken by Elliot. While Elliot is healing from all the trauma from her life while being in hiding from her brother, Kameron is back where Elliot was once living trying to take down the cult that runs the town. This book flows so well, you will have to read Finding Secrets immediately before jumping into this book. And probably reread the books for the 3rd book because I know there will be because of the cliffhanger! But the book is so well written. And please check the trigger warnings.
June 25, 2025
Wow, I was so happy that this started right where we were left dangling off the cliff in Hidden Secrets.
Elliott is rescued from Everton by Marcus and is taken to a place of safety. She ends up in a safe house shared by Hunter and Marcus.
Meanwhile, Kameron remains behind in Everton to fulfil his mission in bringing the 'cult' and its leaders down...
This story delves deep into dark emotional layers and dealing with trauma. How the past can cause damage that is not always visible. It is essentially about healing.
I especially loved how Ivy developed the personalities of the characters, even the loathsome Samuel and Joshua.
This was a dark compelling story of survival that again ended with a doozy of a cliffhanger... I cannot wait to see what happens next!
Elliott is rescued from Everton by Marcus and is taken to a place of safety. She ends up in a safe house shared by Hunter and Marcus.
Meanwhile, Kameron remains behind in Everton to fulfil his mission in bringing the 'cult' and its leaders down...
This story delves deep into dark emotional layers and dealing with trauma. How the past can cause damage that is not always visible. It is essentially about healing.
I especially loved how Ivy developed the personalities of the characters, even the loathsome Samuel and Joshua.
This was a dark compelling story of survival that again ended with a doozy of a cliffhanger... I cannot wait to see what happens next!
July 2, 2025
I received this ARC for my honest opinion. Hiding Secrets by Ivy Darling was a fabulous edge of your seat read. I could not put the book down. I downloaded it immediately and started reading. I was intrigued to see where this story was going to lead for Elliot/Eden because the first book ended on a cliffhanger. The story between Elliot, Kameron, Marcus and Hunter kept the plot interesting. Marcus is learning to address his trauma in a healthier way than he has been because of Elliot. Kameron is absolutely smitten with Elliot and doesn’t want to be away from her and Hunter is falling for her quite fast. Such a good read. I highly recommend reading. Be for warned it does end on a cliff hanger. I am excited to see where the 3rd book takes us.
July 7, 2025
I am not well…that ending has left me emotionally wrung out, and my heart battered and bruised. Ivy Darling, if you see this, PLEASE get us book 3 ASAP!!
Now that that’s been said lol…I devoured this book. It was a fantastic sequel and continued on with the story really well. I loved the multiple POV’s, and felt like it really gave insight into what all the characters were feeling and thinking. We really got to see the relationships developing between Elliott and the guys, and there was some great character growth as well. And of course, there was some page melting spice! I honestly can’t wait for the third book to get here. If you haven’t read the first book in this series, Hiding Secrets, you should really check it out. I think you will be hooked!
Now that that’s been said lol…I devoured this book. It was a fantastic sequel and continued on with the story really well. I loved the multiple POV’s, and felt like it really gave insight into what all the characters were feeling and thinking. We really got to see the relationships developing between Elliott and the guys, and there was some great character growth as well. And of course, there was some page melting spice! I honestly can’t wait for the third book to get here. If you haven’t read the first book in this series, Hiding Secrets, you should really check it out. I think you will be hooked!
July 11, 2025
Holy holy holy! What?! Ivy your endings always have my jaw on the floor! I cannot wait for book three 😭 the healing for Elliot was so beautifully written, the pain and constant mental fighting with herself on what she knows and what she’s learning. I loved that she had the boys there to help her through her traumas and to show her tips and tricks that helped them through similar traumas. Watching Elliot figure out this new world that is so different from what she is use to is heart breaking but so inspiring how strong willed she is to get what she wants, also when she finds out what exactly happened to her when she was younger, you just want to hug her. I devoured every bit of this book, Ivy has had me hooked on this series sense I started it!
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