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The Secrets That We Keep
Julian and Annabella Rivera have been married for three years. To anybody who knows them they are the perfect couple; happily in love and made for each other, but Annabella has been keeping a secret. A secret she wants to keep from everybody, especially her husband.
When Julian, a FBI Investigative Specialist, begins working late nights, receiving mysterious phone calls and cryptic messages, Annabella worries she may not be the only one keeping secrets.
With her husband’s sudden change in behavior, the feeling that she’s being watched and the unexpected arrival of someone from her past, Annabella decides she needs to do some investigating of her own.
When secrets begin to emerge, will she be able to handle them? Will she be able to finally confide in someone about what happened all those years ago? Or will the ugly truth be too much to handle?
When Julian, a FBI Investigative Specialist, begins working late nights, receiving mysterious phone calls and cryptic messages, Annabella worries she may not be the only one keeping secrets.
With her husband’s sudden change in behavior, the feeling that she’s being watched and the unexpected arrival of someone from her past, Annabella decides she needs to do some investigating of her own.
When secrets begin to emerge, will she be able to handle them? Will she be able to finally confide in someone about what happened all those years ago? Or will the ugly truth be too much to handle?
ebook
First published August 1, 2013
5 people are currently reading
549 people want to read
About the author
Isabel Lucero
37 books1,839 followersIsabel Lucero is a bestselling author, finding joy in giving readers books for every mood.
Born in a small town in New Mexico, Isabel was lucky enough to escape and travel the world thanks to her husband's career in the Air Force. Her and her husband have three kids and two dogs together, and currently reside in Delaware. When Isabel isn't on mommy duty or writing her next book, she can be found reading, or in the nearest Target buying things she doesn't need.
Isabel loves connecting with her readers and fans of books in general. You can find her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
https://www.facebook.com/authorisabel...
https://twitter.com/AuthorIsabel
http://instagram.com/isabel__lucero
http://authorisabellucero.blogspot.com/
Born in a small town in New Mexico, Isabel was lucky enough to escape and travel the world thanks to her husband's career in the Air Force. Her and her husband have three kids and two dogs together, and currently reside in Delaware. When Isabel isn't on mommy duty or writing her next book, she can be found reading, or in the nearest Target buying things she doesn't need.
Isabel loves connecting with her readers and fans of books in general. You can find her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
https://www.facebook.com/authorisabel...
https://twitter.com/AuthorIsabel
http://instagram.com/isabel__lucero
http://authorisabellucero.blogspot.com/
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
July 10, 2013
***Beta read***
Whoa! I have to say, this book was a puller. From about 25% in, I was reading as fast as I could trying to figure out what was happening (in a good way!).
So many things I didn't see coming and I really think this is a great debut novel from Isabel.
*Will release a more detailed review when the book goes live :)
Whoa! I have to say, this book was a puller. From about 25% in, I was reading as fast as I could trying to figure out what was happening (in a good way!).
So many things I didn't see coming and I really think this is a great debut novel from Isabel.
*Will release a more detailed review when the book goes live :)
August 31, 2013
Rating 3.5 out of 5
The Secrets That We Keep is a book with a fantastic storyline. This is not just a romance novel. And it’s not just a mystery novel, either. Our lead ‘couple’ is already married and very happy and in love at the start of the story. The prologue had me immediately intrigued and desperate to know what secrets would be revealed. The story is fairly fast paced. Once Isabel achieved her momentum, it kept right on through until the end. My head was spinning at the twists and I was anxious as more and more secrets, deceits and lies of omission were revealed. I kept making guesses as to what different characters’ secrets were or what was going to happen and I was wrong on almost every account.
I read this book in a few hours, as I do most every book, and I was left satisfied when I reached the end. I like my Happily Ever Afters and I need my questions to be answered and all wrapped up when I am done reading. Isabel Lucero achieves that in The Secrets That We Keep.
This is Isabel’s debut novel and it is a great story. It has all of the aspects that a reader, namely- me, enjoys in a good book. There was love and sex, angst and drama, mystery and suspense, believable characters, and an epilogue. I’m a sucker for a good epilogue. What I feel was lacking in this novel was the dialogue and a need for better editing. The chemistry just wasn’t there in the dialogue between the different characters. Some of it felt forced and not realistic to how married people or best friends would interact. There was also a good amount of editing errors (i.e. comma usage, word usage, and other minor issues). I would much rather wait to read a book that’s been picked over by a few sets of eyes. The errors weren’t necessarily distracting, but they were there. As the book progressed, I could see Isabel’s writing maturing. And the dialogue was improving. I give Isabel a big fucking “atta girl” for having the lady balls to put herself and her work out there. If you like your books with a lot of twists and to be kept guessing, then this book is for you. I do not regret reading this book and I will read any future work from Isabel Lucero. She provided me with a copy in exchange for my honest opinion and that’s what I always give. RAW, baby!
Read more reviews @ www.rawbooksonline.com
The Secrets That We Keep is a book with a fantastic storyline. This is not just a romance novel. And it’s not just a mystery novel, either. Our lead ‘couple’ is already married and very happy and in love at the start of the story. The prologue had me immediately intrigued and desperate to know what secrets would be revealed. The story is fairly fast paced. Once Isabel achieved her momentum, it kept right on through until the end. My head was spinning at the twists and I was anxious as more and more secrets, deceits and lies of omission were revealed. I kept making guesses as to what different characters’ secrets were or what was going to happen and I was wrong on almost every account.
I read this book in a few hours, as I do most every book, and I was left satisfied when I reached the end. I like my Happily Ever Afters and I need my questions to be answered and all wrapped up when I am done reading. Isabel Lucero achieves that in The Secrets That We Keep.
This is Isabel’s debut novel and it is a great story. It has all of the aspects that a reader, namely- me, enjoys in a good book. There was love and sex, angst and drama, mystery and suspense, believable characters, and an epilogue. I’m a sucker for a good epilogue. What I feel was lacking in this novel was the dialogue and a need for better editing. The chemistry just wasn’t there in the dialogue between the different characters. Some of it felt forced and not realistic to how married people or best friends would interact. There was also a good amount of editing errors (i.e. comma usage, word usage, and other minor issues). I would much rather wait to read a book that’s been picked over by a few sets of eyes. The errors weren’t necessarily distracting, but they were there. As the book progressed, I could see Isabel’s writing maturing. And the dialogue was improving. I give Isabel a big fucking “atta girl” for having the lady balls to put herself and her work out there. If you like your books with a lot of twists and to be kept guessing, then this book is for you. I do not regret reading this book and I will read any future work from Isabel Lucero. She provided me with a copy in exchange for my honest opinion and that’s what I always give. RAW, baby!
Read more reviews @ www.rawbooksonline.com
October 9, 2014
My rating for this is really 4.5 stars (damn you Goodreads for not having halfsies!). I normally don't tag anything as a "favorite" unless it's 5 stars, but this is a really good exception. The book is a standalone and from Annabella's point of view (even love the name). There's a lot of mystery around this story and it flat out kept me on the edge of my seat. The chemistry between Bella and her husband, Julian, is palpable. His sudden change in his behavior and not getting his point of view kept me turning the pages to find out what in the heck is going on! If I had been in her shoes I would have totally called him out on it and asked if he was having an affair.
What's keeping me from giving it a full 5 stars? I was baffled towards the end about her priorities.
So the last portion of the book left me a bit frustrated and wanting to wring her neck. But up until that point - this book was incredible. I love how the author built the suspense and developed Bella and Julian. I also really liked how there were some pseudonyms thrown around that kept you in the know as to the overall story, but you weren't sure who they were.
What's keeping me from giving it a full 5 stars? I was baffled towards the end about her priorities.
So the last portion of the book left me a bit frustrated and wanting to wring her neck. But up until that point - this book was incredible. I love how the author built the suspense and developed Bella and Julian. I also really liked how there were some pseudonyms thrown around that kept you in the know as to the overall story, but you weren't sure who they were.
August 22, 2013
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review, and I am glad I did! I have had this book for a little over a week now and just didn't have time to get through it in one shot. I remedied that tonight =)
Annabella is married to her dream man Julian and lives in her dream home. But like many dreams, it isn't what it seems. In fact, nothing is what it appears to be in this book. Annabella had tragedy strike her young, she lost her family and the man who caused their deaths was able to walk free. She does something awful and disappears. Of course you can never really outrun the bad you do. There will always be a day of reckoning.
Julian works for the FBI and is hiding a rather disturbing secret of his own. Being Agent Rivera by day and Batman by night, we see that Annabella doesn't really know her husband as well as she thinks she does. When an old friend comes back into Bella's world, truths start to emerge. Some are shocking, others, heartbreaking. But it seems that everyone is holding something back.
I loved the intricate story of how Bella, Julian, & Lucas all know each other. I thought that Julian & Bella's story was so well told that when the truth came out, it hurt me to read it. I wanted to be on team J&B, but like Bella, I needed time to come to terms with things. Lucas is that wild card that is thrown in to throw you off, and admittedly I started rooting for team L&B! But alas, what's meant to be will find a way.
My only gripe about this book is sometimes I feel like there was a lot of story that was brushed over. I wanted to hear from Dante. I wanted to know his anger from his own mouth. I felt like I lost out a bit on that experience. But whereas that is my gripe, there are just too many pros for me to over look. I LOVED the epilogue! In fact, it brought tears to my eyes! I highly recommend reading this novel.
I give it 4 lipsticks!
Annabella is married to her dream man Julian and lives in her dream home. But like many dreams, it isn't what it seems. In fact, nothing is what it appears to be in this book. Annabella had tragedy strike her young, she lost her family and the man who caused their deaths was able to walk free. She does something awful and disappears. Of course you can never really outrun the bad you do. There will always be a day of reckoning.
Julian works for the FBI and is hiding a rather disturbing secret of his own. Being Agent Rivera by day and Batman by night, we see that Annabella doesn't really know her husband as well as she thinks she does. When an old friend comes back into Bella's world, truths start to emerge. Some are shocking, others, heartbreaking. But it seems that everyone is holding something back.
I loved the intricate story of how Bella, Julian, & Lucas all know each other. I thought that Julian & Bella's story was so well told that when the truth came out, it hurt me to read it. I wanted to be on team J&B, but like Bella, I needed time to come to terms with things. Lucas is that wild card that is thrown in to throw you off, and admittedly I started rooting for team L&B! But alas, what's meant to be will find a way.
My only gripe about this book is sometimes I feel like there was a lot of story that was brushed over. I wanted to hear from Dante. I wanted to know his anger from his own mouth. I felt like I lost out a bit on that experience. But whereas that is my gripe, there are just too many pros for me to over look. I LOVED the epilogue! In fact, it brought tears to my eyes! I highly recommend reading this novel.
I give it 4 lipsticks!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 8, 2014
Where to begin with this story? It took me on such a rollercoaster. I think the title, "The Secrets We Keep" is such a perfect title for it because everyone in here keeps so many secrets. At the end of the day, despite it all, their still decent people. Plus I just love this author's writing style. And I'm ready for much more! I loved the whole vibe of mystery & suspense this story took me on. Was so intriguing trying to guess who did what, & who's lying on who, etc.. It was like trying to solve a puzzle & I could not stop reading until I figured out everything. There's so many ups & downs along the way. But its well worth the journey.
Anabella was at the core and the center of all of this. She went through such tragedies regarding her family. And the "huge secret" that's she's keeping hidden, isn't really all that bad like your alluded to think. It was such momentum built up in the beginning of the book like she's holding this huge, big, dark secret that will change everything. But then once it comes out considering the circumstances she was in, I don't blame her for doing what she did.
And then Julian. Somewhere along the way around halfway through the book I began to not trust him. He was always coming home late, always having these private conversations & whispering like he was keeping stuff hidden from Anabella. I knew something was fishy about him.
Lucas I feel like I trusted the most. I feel almost sorry for him in some ways. He truly cares about Anabella. And did all he could to protect her. I just wish things worked out better for him than it did.
It wasn't as much sex in here, but the scenes that did happen were very steamy & sensual. Personally i'm not sure if I could get past everything concerning Julian. Some stuff can't be unseen or unheard. And no matter how much you try to justify, I couldn't get past it. Even though he attempts to redeem himself in the end. Sometimes once someone crosses certain lines you never look at them the same. That's the case with how I feel with Julian.
All in all I enjoyed this book a lot! 4 STARS!
Anabella was at the core and the center of all of this. She went through such tragedies regarding her family. And the "huge secret" that's she's keeping hidden, isn't really all that bad like your alluded to think. It was such momentum built up in the beginning of the book like she's holding this huge, big, dark secret that will change everything. But then once it comes out considering the circumstances she was in, I don't blame her for doing what she did.
And then Julian. Somewhere along the way around halfway through the book I began to not trust him. He was always coming home late, always having these private conversations & whispering like he was keeping stuff hidden from Anabella. I knew something was fishy about him.
Lucas I feel like I trusted the most. I feel almost sorry for him in some ways. He truly cares about Anabella. And did all he could to protect her. I just wish things worked out better for him than it did.
It wasn't as much sex in here, but the scenes that did happen were very steamy & sensual. Personally i'm not sure if I could get past everything concerning Julian. Some stuff can't be unseen or unheard. And no matter how much you try to justify, I couldn't get past it. Even though he attempts to redeem himself in the end. Sometimes once someone crosses certain lines you never look at them the same. That's the case with how I feel with Julian.
All in all I enjoyed this book a lot! 4 STARS!
August 25, 2013
I was hooked by the first page and I really enjoy the writing style.
Half way through the book i was wondering where the story will take me. It made me second guess everyone and keeps me in suspense.
Once the secret was out I started to get annoyed with Anabelle and how the story goes. It just made me slightly lost interest. But other than that, I enjoyed reading this one and love both Lucas and Julian.
Half way through the book i was wondering where the story will take me. It made me second guess everyone and keeps me in suspense.
Once the secret was out I started to get annoyed with Anabelle and how the story goes. It just made me slightly lost interest. But other than that, I enjoyed reading this one and love both Lucas and Julian.
September 1, 2013
I receive this book as a gift and I like it . It was a fast read with mystery and secrets. Annabelle is marry to Julian but, she have's a secret that she wants to take to the grave. she believes that no one will ever find out not even her husband. Unfortunately, secrets never go alway, they only hide until revealed. Once revealed, you can only hope your life won't be completely ruin. If you want something to read than buy this book.
January 3, 2014
Great storyline. I loved the twists and turns. I wasn't sure where this was going, and loved being on the edge of my seat! Also, there's some hot scenes in there. Can't go wrong with suspense and sex!
Read
September 24, 2014DNF
August 23, 2021
Fabulous suspense
This story is fabulous. Great engaging plot, amazing chemistry between main characters. It kept me in suspense through the whole story. I enjoyed it
This story is fabulous. Great engaging plot, amazing chemistry between main characters. It kept me in suspense through the whole story. I enjoyed it
February 9, 2015
The first thing that caught my eyes was the cover. The second thing was the blurb. But what kept me glued to my kindle was the story itself.
We see from the very beginning that Julian and Annabella have a happy marriage, still in the honeymoon stage. I have to say, I was smitten with Julian from the very first scene, where he was sitting on a chair, outside on the back porch and smoking. This may put off some people, but not me. The way he was described made me melt in my seat.
But it's also clear that it's going to be a book that keeps me on my toes. And keep me on my toes, it did. I was pulled in, from the very first pages, until the end. I read it in one sitting. I can't remember the last time I did that with a book. It was getting late, but I couldn't put it down. I didn't want to. I wanted to know why Julian was acting strange, all of a sudden, and what Annabella's secret was.
We get teased a lot - hence, why it drove me crazy - and I was feeling so many things! I either wanted to melt because of Julian - he's a dirty talker, ladies - or I was cursing him. I honestly lost count of the times I said, "Damn it, Julian." Stephanie and Karima can both confirm this. The man was driving me crazy. Both good and bad ways. And then, there was a boom that stunned me stupid, and of course that I had to find out if THAT was true or not.
I'm ashamed to admit that I doubted my poor Julian. Yes, he's certainly made it onto my BBF list. Second place, along with three others. Don't judge, we're all book sluts.
"In my world full of chaos, frustration, anger and darkness, you are my moonlight. In my darkest moments it is your light that guides me to see."
And this is just a SNIPPET of the things he says to Annabella. Lucky woman.
5 stars for this brilliant book that I shall have on my shelf because I'll be rereading it. I know I'm two years late to the party, but this has to be the best book I've read this year, so far. It has made it onto my Best of 2015 list. Yes, I know we're in February. Read the book and you'll see.
We see from the very beginning that Julian and Annabella have a happy marriage, still in the honeymoon stage. I have to say, I was smitten with Julian from the very first scene, where he was sitting on a chair, outside on the back porch and smoking. This may put off some people, but not me. The way he was described made me melt in my seat.
But it's also clear that it's going to be a book that keeps me on my toes. And keep me on my toes, it did. I was pulled in, from the very first pages, until the end. I read it in one sitting. I can't remember the last time I did that with a book. It was getting late, but I couldn't put it down. I didn't want to. I wanted to know why Julian was acting strange, all of a sudden, and what Annabella's secret was.
We get teased a lot - hence, why it drove me crazy - and I was feeling so many things! I either wanted to melt because of Julian - he's a dirty talker, ladies - or I was cursing him. I honestly lost count of the times I said, "Damn it, Julian." Stephanie and Karima can both confirm this. The man was driving me crazy. Both good and bad ways. And then, there was a boom that stunned me stupid, and of course that I had to find out if THAT was true or not.
I'm ashamed to admit that I doubted my poor Julian. Yes, he's certainly made it onto my BBF list. Second place, along with three others. Don't judge, we're all book sluts.
"In my world full of chaos, frustration, anger and darkness, you are my moonlight. In my darkest moments it is your light that guides me to see."
And this is just a SNIPPET of the things he says to Annabella. Lucky woman.
5 stars for this brilliant book that I shall have on my shelf because I'll be rereading it. I know I'm two years late to the party, but this has to be the best book I've read this year, so far. It has made it onto my Best of 2015 list. Yes, I know we're in February. Read the book and you'll see.
August 13, 2016
I am not sure where to even start.
This type of book isn't my typical read, but the synopsis intrigued me, so I had to read it.
From the start I was pulled into this huge mystery as to what exactly this secret was. The way the book is written you wanted to know, you had to know what it was.
Everyone in the book was sneaky. I think that added to the mystery of what was going on. Lots of twists would spring up just when you thought you had the puzzle of the questions put together.
I enjoyed this book and read it in one day. I couldn't stop reading. I had to know, I needed answers.
I loved the characters. They all had great personalities and worked well together. The plot was different and I loved it.
I hope the book will have a spin off with a secondary character.
This type of book isn't my typical read, but the synopsis intrigued me, so I had to read it.
From the start I was pulled into this huge mystery as to what exactly this secret was. The way the book is written you wanted to know, you had to know what it was.
Everyone in the book was sneaky. I think that added to the mystery of what was going on. Lots of twists would spring up just when you thought you had the puzzle of the questions put together.
I enjoyed this book and read it in one day. I couldn't stop reading. I had to know, I needed answers.
I loved the characters. They all had great personalities and worked well together. The plot was different and I loved it.
I hope the book will have a spin off with a secondary character.
April 15, 2014
This book was a pleasant surprise. It is a romance, thriller, mystery all rolled into one. Wow, the author did a great job.
Annabella has a secret that she will do anything to keep. Her husband, Julian is an FBI investigator, and she especially wants to keep the secret from him. Her family is dead and Julian is all that she has. They have a perfect relationship. Well,that is what we think. Julian is hiding somethings too. When things come to light, Annabella is unsure what to do. I do not want to give anything away, because you must read this story.
I absolutely loved the way this book ended. It was perfect. A happily ever after.
Can't wait to read more from Isabel Lucero.
Annabella has a secret that she will do anything to keep. Her husband, Julian is an FBI investigator, and she especially wants to keep the secret from him. Her family is dead and Julian is all that she has. They have a perfect relationship. Well,that is what we think. Julian is hiding somethings too. When things come to light, Annabella is unsure what to do. I do not want to give anything away, because you must read this story.
I absolutely loved the way this book ended. It was perfect. A happily ever after.
Can't wait to read more from Isabel Lucero.
June 16, 2014
I could not put this book down - the suspense was killing me! Annabella and her gorgeous husband Julian seem to have the perfect life UNTIL some odd occurrences start happening! There are so many twists and turns and secrets - I would think I had it all figured out and then Wham - NO I didn't! Great character development and suspenseful build until all the secrets are revealed is just captivating!! It was romantic and fun and sexy and I cried a lot of tears! Amazing Epilogue! My first book by Isabel Lucero and I look forward to reading more! If you like romantic suspense - you really need to read this!
May 4, 2025
This book explores the moral tension between desire and commitment within a seemingly perfect marriage. Julian and Annabella Rivera present a polished exterior, but beneath the surface lie betrayals that test the limits of trust. Lucero constructs a narrative that challenges readers to examine the boundaries of forgiveness and the emotional cost of secrecy. With well-paced tension and nuanced character development, the novel engages themes of fidelity, vulnerability, and the ripple effects of personal decisions. This is not just a romance—it’s a dissection of what people justify in the name of love.
September 21, 2013
First let me say I am glad I read this book however it left me wanting more. I feel the book has more potential that was actually given. I've read quite a few books but this one lacked. It did not flow well at all. The beginning was great, the ending was second best but the middle lacked in luster.
April 27, 2015
This book was a real page turner. There were so many twists in the story, the author really doesn't pave the way for you to guess what's coming. Every time I though something was going to happen, I was completely wrong. Loved the book from beginning to end its suspenseful, romantic, saucy and action packed.
January 19, 2014
*blissful sigh* This book was so thrilling. It killed me to not know what was going on and all the secrets and her hot hubby with their awesome marriage just slowly falling apart.
It was so engaging and I thoroughly enjoyed it. :0)
It was so engaging and I thoroughly enjoyed it. :0)
April 12, 2014
loved it! you never knows who knows what. that twist with Julian was crazy! didnt suspect that one. but loved how it turned out in the end :) would love if Lucas can get a book too :)
looking forward to more from Isabel!!
looking forward to more from Isabel!!
August 13, 2020
Kept me reading
I loved this, I was gripped from the start, kept on tenderhooks all the way through. Was Julian a killer? does he want to kill his wife? and is Lucas friend or foe? I had to keep reading to find out, the plot is great
I loved this, I was gripped from the start, kept on tenderhooks all the way through. Was Julian a killer? does he want to kill his wife? and is Lucas friend or foe? I had to keep reading to find out, the plot is great
Want to read
August 6, 2013To be read!
August 25, 2013
3.5stars
August 19, 2014
3.5 stars
I liked it but didn't love it.
I liked it but didn't love it.
March 1, 2020
Just wow
There’s not much to say apart from you MUST read this book, Isabel’s writing is phenomenal as always and you won’t be disappointed
There’s not much to say apart from you MUST read this book, Isabel’s writing is phenomenal as always and you won’t be disappointed
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews