The Sound of Secrets

The Monsters Duet #2

by Jay Crownover

Some secrets are silent.

It began with a contract, with Channing Harvey being forced into marriage by the world’s grumpiest billionaire. She hated every moment of her marriage to Win Halliday… until she didn’t. It was hard to resist when he proved he valued her more than his massive fortune. Channing is having a hard time picturing her life without him, and if Win finds that out, he won’t rest until he has all of her. Deep, dark secrets included.

Some secrets scream.

Win Halliday is so close to having everything he’s ever secretly wanted. He’s ready to do battle with Channing’s demons, no matter what they are. Or who they might be. Someone from Channing’s past wants to use her, and they’ll go to desperate lengths to get what they want, including targeting an innocent teenager. But whatever lengths they go to, Win will go farther. He finally has the family he’s dreamed of, and he will protect them at all costs.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, New Adult, Audiobook, Dark Romance, Adult, Dark

320 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 23, 2024

About the author

Jay Crownover is the International and multiple New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Marked Men Series, The Saints of Denver Series, The Point and Breaking Point Series, and the Loveless, Texas series. Her books can be found translated in many different languages all around the world. She is a tattooed, crazy haired Colorado native who lives at the base of the Rockies with her awesome dogs. This is where she can frequently be found enjoying a cold beer and Taco Tuesdays. Jay is a self-declared music snob and outspoken book lover who is always looking for her next adventure, between the pages and on the road.
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Reviews

[Lisbeth · Rating 2 out of 5]

Aburrido.

[Michelle Quintana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Couldn't get enough

The first book had suspense while this book was so much more. It has suspense, tear-jerking moments, and lots of love. Channing was more confused about discovering herself because of her changing views regarding Win. He was ready to admit how he felt about Channing and what he wanted from her. Of course, the biggest secret Channing had came out without realizing it. Win was determined to help her find out the truth and to deal with her past. So much drama was going on that at times it seemed like it was going to tear everyone apart instead of getting closer. I liked the ending of the book and I hope that not only does Winnie get her own book, but also Alistair as well.

[Cherie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This fascinating conclusion to The Silence of Monsters gives us the HEA we all wanted for Win and Channing. Unfortunately for them there are still more bumps in the road they must overcome. This time it’s Channing’s daddy dearest doing his best to derail the inevitable. Lots of twists and turns keep you flipping pages quickly. I’m loving this new world Jay Crownover has created and am hoping we get to read more of it!!!

[NiCoLeTa E. {Addicted To Books} · Rating 4 out of 5]

***4.25 "Not enemies!" stars***



"The best way to bring a god down to earth was to let them fall in love with a mortal."

I fell in love with "The Silence of Monsters" and I was anticipating the second part of the duet like a crazy person!
And here we are!
Win and Channing are back and ready to give us an amazing story with an epic ending!
I loved these two together, even though Channing couldn't really see it!
Win was the best match for her and even though they had started with the wrong foot, in here, he proved himself to us!

“We aren’t enemies anymore, are we?”
“Not enemies.”
“Not enemies, but not friends either.”
“Lovers. We’re lovers.”
“We’re also husband and wife.”
It seemed imperative that I make sure she didn’t forget it. I didn’t mind being her lover for the time being. However, I desperately wanted her to acknowledge I was her husband, as well."

The story picked up from where it left us!
Channing is running away from her husband, a man that was forced upon her, the man that she can not stop thinking about...
Win was left broken, but he was determined to prove to his wife that he is worthy to be by her side and to do so, he will sacrifice everything!
The betrayal that he went through teaches him that he needs to take a break and reevaluate what he truly wants from his life and that thing is Channing!

"The way Win hijacked my life was all wrong. However, I couldn’t deny that every move he made since we were forced together had been exactly right."

But things aren't always easy!
In the first book, Channing and Win had to fight with monsters in order to survive, but their troubles are never ending...
New monsters are making their appearances and they are threatening to reveal secrets that were buried years ago... and they will use anything and anyone to succeed in their goal... which is money!
And Channing with Win has to fight for once again... not only for themselves, but for their newfound feelings that are ruling their lives!
Can they survive this new battle?

"Gods and mortals weren’t supposed to mix, and when they did, the result was always tragic.

I loved Win and Channing!
Win had proven himself over and over again! I liked how protective he was of his wife! I liked the way he was loving her!
As for Channing? In here, she revealed to us the secrets she was holding near to her heart and I could understand her better!
Win had a special place to her heart, but her fears were ruling her life and they were making her hesitant to let go and fall!

"Being attracted to this man had never been a problem for me. Liking him was the issue. And falling in love with him was a looming threat I had to take seriously."

I loved this duet very much!
And now, I can not wait for Winnie's turn! I am so excited to see her fall and especially with a certain someone that intrigued me very much!
I totally recommend the Monsters Duet! I freakin' loved it!

"It was time. One God had fallen. Now another would rise in its place."

**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**

[Belly (Books 4 Girls) READ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Après le cliffhanger du premier tome, j’avoue c’était long d’attendre la suite.
On sait dès le début que l’histoire n’est pas terminée, connaissant les personnages et leur vécu. Mais j’avoue que j’ai eu des surprises dans l’intrigue, je ne m’attendais pas à tout et j’ai vraiment aimé.
Le style m’a plu, les personnages et l’univers aussi. Si Jay décide de renouveler l’expérience, j’y retournerai avec plaisir… mais j’attendrais que tous les tomes soient sortis pour commencer !

[MJLovestoRead · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a conclusion! Jay Crownover brought out the big romantic guns with the way she allowed Channing and Win to finally see the other in only the way they could. Win had already been in love with his supposed nemesis for as long as he could remember but he waited patiently, which is not typically in his wheelhouse, as both he and Channing pick up the ever-present broken pieces that are their respective families and find a forever amongst the ruins.

With the first book, The Silence of Monsters, an eye-opening lesson in just how diabolical the Halliday family could be, I was thrilled that Crownover decided to soften the edges of what Channing, Win, Winnie and Archer had been through and allowed them to come to grips with what and who had been transpiring behind their backs for far too long. Now it was the Harvey side that caused all the grief, mayhem and harm. All in the name of the mighty dollar, which seemed to propel all of the evil that constantly came everyone's way.

But it was now clear that the love, perhaps at times overwhelming and even a bit suffocating, was truly the driving force for Win, in particular, and how he would stop at nothing for those who meant the most to him. His decision to step back from Halliday, Inc., allowing half-brother Alistair to take the reins, was borne out of the desire to finally live a life that was more than just being the good soldier running the family business because that was all he knew.

And Channing. Her giving heart was all anyone needed when she was around them. The way she cared for Winnie and only wanted what was best for her very savvy niece. All that they contended with broke my own heart over and over again, forever taking one step forward and two steps back as greedy figures continued to mess with any chance of happiness.

But in the end, it really was Channing's selfless ways, even if she went about trying to save the day in ways that hurt those she cared for the most, that softened Win's demeanor and allowed him to break free of his assumed responsibilities, being able to finally find his forever in the woman he called his wife. Although they may have started as a forced union, there is no doubt that Win and Channing were meant for each other and it was pure joy getting to see them forge a new path together.

This book and duet was a very unique kind of reading experience and showed me again just how talented a writer Jay Crownover continues to be as she is forever creating new scenarios that will always capture my attention.

I can only hope that we do get a bit more of the now older Winnie as she embarks on a new life abroad and will perhaps find the boy that helped save her life in more ways than one. But in the meantime, I am completely satisfied with how this story progressed. And that even though the fight against evil is never easy when love is the ultimate reward, everything that has to be done is going to be worth it. And it was.

5 big stars!

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just like with The Silence of Monsters, I was taken by The Sounds of Secrets and just like before I was transported into the book and it was amazing! I don’t know what it is about Jay’s writing that is so captivating to me and paints a perfect mental picture and it was such a fun time to do so this time around. I was not able to put it down and honestly finished the book so fast that I needed a second before going back to make sure that I didn’t miss anything, and to say that it was a perfect ending to Win and Channing is an understatement. I honestly can’t really put into words just how fun and entertaining this book was, I will say that it had me on the edge of my seat and I wanted more. The Sound of Secrets had me on the edge of my seat, oh boy, this book did not disappoint. It was such a perfect read and for me it held more in a way. I wanted to hug Win, Channing and Winnie because boy the things that they have been through is an understatement.
At the end of The Silence of Monsters left us with a cliffhanger and going into The Sounds of Secrets was everything that I had been waiting for and more, the characters really went through it and it was fun to see how they were able to overcome the trauma that they went through. And don’t get me started on Winchester, who I fell in love with more and more in this book, he’s really the perfect partner for Channing. Also speaking on Channing let’s get into a little about her, we got to see more about her past in this book and damn that girl really is strong, it was interesting getting more information about her past and her family, she really is much stronger than anyone gives her credit for. I also enjoyed seeing Winnie, she really is a completely different character than she had been in the first book. I love her character and she quickly became a favorite for me, she really became a teenager and it was fun to see her calling out both her aunt and uncle.
Everything about The Sound of Secrets was great, the characters were amazing, the plot was great and the setting, ah, I love it. It was so clear for me to see in my head and honestly it was amazing.
With the roller coaster ride that I got from reading this book, I will say that the epilogue left me a little giddy and excited with what’s coming next. Jay really did an amazing job with this duet and it was such a beautiful book to read because it really kept me on the edge of my seat and rooting for these characters who deserve nothing but happiness.
And now I leave you all with my favorite quote from the book.
“It wasn’t every day that I was coerced into marriage by a billionaire then nearly murdered by the said billionaire’s lunatic mother” - Channing
Happy Readings!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stories just don't get much better than Jay Crownover's The Sound of Secrets where sophisticated turns of events and emotional turmoil ruled the day!

Taking off where book one, The Silence of Monsters left off, this author further developed this plot in book two beautifully as she dug deep and exposed her characters from the obvious to the core of who they were perceptively and compassionately. Soul searching and self-introspection carried on where the dust settled from the twist driven storyline of the first book in this duet. The imperfections of Win and Channing flourished in the aftermath of book one's wreckage making them vulnerable and approachable to this writer's audience.

The Sound of Secrets showed a couple that experienced seemingly insurmountable issues questioning their relationships and the consequences of actions. Both Win and Channing did the best they could growing up with toxic parents, each manifesting how they dealt with their families dysfunction in different ways. Channing tried to take care of and protect her mother, sister, and Winnie to some extent, from her father, hardly making her Peter Pan when people saw the realities and responsibilities she hid from them. Win micro managed and took control of situations to the point of being dictatorial as a way to combat his mother's destructiveness.

The very odds stacked against Win and Channing from achieving a happy and feasible relationship were the same ones that made one possible when they were able to support each other and see beyond their chaos. The gift of forgiveness to not only others but to oneself was a strong foundation to this work and was beautifully developed by Ms. Crownover. Win and Channing's tender and terrifying love that they carried for each other made this a love story that felt raw and fragile as this pair fought to find a way to not corrupt it with their past behaviors and histories. With more than their share of hiccups and a couple of unexpected twists this was a standout work.

Jay Crownover crafts stories that are multidimensional and gritty. Her portrayals often have their fair share of hardships yet persevere leaving them with hope as well as this author's readers. Jay Crownover's The Sound of Secrets was unexpected and worth every hour spent between its covers, a top read of 2024!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
*This is book two of The Monsters Duet and book one needs to be read prior to reading it.*

[Tammy · Rating 1 out of 5]

My review will sound harsh but lord, The Sound of Secrets royally pissed me the fuck off.

There's zero reasons this book should actually exist. It was nothing but CONTRIVED DRAMA and didn't add anything of value to The Silence of Monsters. An extra chapter or two in book one would have sufficed, and easily made that book a 100x better. I honestly can't figure out what the purpose of this one was.

Heads up, the beginning is a play by play of book 1. Which I guess is good for those who had a bunch of time between the two books but not so much if you are reading these back to back.

The characters did a 180. Both Winnie and Channing became unlikable characters. Especially Channing. I loathed being inside her head, to read her pov. I loathed the sound of her "voice." By the end, I went from loving her to HATING her. She was a whining, sniveling, woe is me snot. You'd have thought she was the teenager and not Winnie. The way she treated Win made me want to vomit. It was disgusting. On top of that, I was beyond over her oh we aren't perfect for each other, we don't match, I can't love him as he doesn't actually love me bullshit. I mean this man gave up everything for her and repeatedly told her he wanted to keep her forever. Yet, she just kept up with her drivel, for a good 3/4 of the book. She shit all over that man. With each passing page my dislike for her grew until I just wanted to punt her into outer space.

At one point, I was cheering Winnie on, loudly, for the way she spoke the truth to her aunt. Channing needed a huge dose of reality. Not that it mattered, though, because of course, it was woe is me again. Que huge eye rolls.

I wish Alister and Win weren't related because theirs would have been the HEA I wished for. They were the only two likable characters. I absolutely ADORED the fuck out of both of them. Win deserves a better heroine. Can't lie, there were a few moments I wanted to slap some sense into him and urge him to find a different love of his life.

This series did not feel like the Jay I'm used to. In fact, I wondered if someone else wrote it. I'm a HUGE fan of this author. But this go round, not even close. The Sound of Secrets failed on all kinds of levels.

I wouldn't say not to read it, as everyone reads books differently...I mean look at all the 4 & 5 stars. But it's not one of her books I would tell people about, either.

[mysticalblaise · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sound of Secrets is the second book in The Monsters Duet series by Jay Crownover.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐4-4.25 stars
💼 Hurt/Comfort
🦋 Curvy 35yo divorced FMC who hates his family
💼 Grumpy billionaire MMC who is raising his teenage niece
🦋 Mental health rep
💼“I don't know how to let you go.”
🦋 Dual POV
💼 Family Drama
🦋 Forced proximity
💼 Height difference

The Sound of Secrets picks up right where The Silence of Monsters left off, and because of this, you should read Book 1 first. Also, do yourself a favor and read Jay's notes at the front and end of the book. It was very interesting to get some insight into her choices and writing.

Jay states in her notes that while the first book is Win's, the second is Channing's, and I completely got that. While we still dealt with some Halliday nonsense, this book is essentially dealing with Channing's issues, and boy howdy, there was a LOT. We learned so much more about her past in this book and how it affects the present timeline in the book. It also explained a lot of her I-can-do-it-on-my-own personality. Even though I disagreed with many of her choices, especially at the very beginning and toward the end, I understood the mindset.

Win was amazing in this book. As usual, the boy knew what he wanted and went after it unrelentingly in the best way. You can't help but fall more in love with him. My heart broke for him of how he was affected by the events in the first book.

The plot itself was well-paced, and the story moved right along. While there was a confusing element in the plot towards the end, the well-developed characters and engaging storyline compensated for it. The steamy gothic soap opera vibes were vibing, and that meant more to me than one perplexing plot point.

Regarding the characters, the supporting cast was outstanding, and I am eager to learn more about their individual stories. Thankfully, the Epilogue and the accompanying notes indicate that we will indeed be treated to more, and I couldn't be more thrilled about it.

The Sound of Secrets by Jay Crownover provided a deeply satisfying conclusion to The Monsters Duet and left me eagerly anticipating future installments.

Favorite Line:
"You're worth your weight in gold, Harvey. Don't doubt it."

Thank you to WordSmith Publicity for a copy of this ARC.

[Ptiteaurel · Rating 5 out of 5]

J'attendais avec impatience de retrouver nos héros et je n'ai absolument pas été déçue. Nos héros vont devoir affronter encore un tas d'épreuves et des secrets n'ont pas fini d'être dévoilés. Les enjeux seront encore très importants et impossible de lâcher ce roman avant de l'avoir fini.

Channing Harvey a fui après l'accident de la fin du dernier tome. Elle ne s'attendait pas à de tels rebondissements et elle a pris de la distance en pensant que cela allait arranger les choses. Les plaies sont encore béantes et la souffrance n'est pas apaisée. Il faudra donc affronter de nouvelles révélations et de nouveau danger mais cette fois-ci, elle n'est pas seule. Elle va tout faire pour sauver sa nièce Winnie des griffes de personnes mal intentionnées. Le doute sera partout et on se demande à qui on peut faire confiance. Win formera un vrai duo avec elle car ils vont se rendre compte qu'ils seront toujours là l'un pour pour l'autre, peu importe les défis à relever.

Winchester Halliday était un héros que j'avais pu apprécier à sa juste valeur dans le précédent tome et une fois de plus, il m'a conquise. Il va se relever encore plus grand et encore plus déterminé à anéantir tous les fantômes du passé. La cellule familiale sera au coeur de ce second tome et on va voir qu'il n'y a aucun modèle valable. Tous seront décevants à un moment donné et nos héros ne pourront donc compter que sur eux mêmes. J'ai aimé voir son évolution et voir qu'il va tout donner pour son faux mariage. Il est clair que tous les deux ont passé le stade du faux contrat et que les sentiments sont plus présents que jamais mais auront ils enfin la paix d'esprit nécessaire pour vivre leur romance en plein jour. Les enjeux seront décisifs et toute décision lourde de conséquence.

C'est donc une duologie que j'ai adoré découvrir car Jay a rondement mené sa barque et a su nous emporter dans cette romance enemies to lovers. Les intrigues se denouent au fil de nos interrogations et les doutes seront sans cesse au premier plan. Une lecture que je vous recommande évidemment.

[Renee Entress · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 star

I was pulled right into this story. Since this is a two-part story expect a cliffy and to be ready to look for the second book. The story has laughs, grief, secrets, pain, and heartbreak.

This is Channing and Win’s story. These two don’t really care for each other or so it seems. When Win comes up with a plan so they both get what they want she does not want to go along with it. He forces her hand. Now they are together but at what cost? At least they get to spend unlimited time with Winnie. Trying to deal with the past and present while living with a cold hearted monster that Win calls mother is hard. But when danger starts lurking can they figure out all the mysteries before they lose even more than they have already lost? In the end will Win lose the one thing he never thought he would want forever?

Must read this story first to know what is going on -
The Silence of Monsters (The Monsters Duet, #1)

This is the second part of Channing and Win’s story it picks up where the other part of the story left off. Can Win get Channing to come back? If she comes back not only will she have to deal with all the is the Halliday name but things from her past. Someone from her past is out to get her and make her think she is crazy. With all the illness that her family has gone through will she be the next one to fall or can she overcome the past and finally have the future she never thought she would? Will the outcome of overcoming force her to lose everyone she ever loved?

I recommend this book.

[Tara Peters · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Jay outdid herself with the conclusion to this duet. Win and Channing had so many obstacles to overcome, some self imposed, to find their way together. Every twist, turn and oh no moment kept me turning the page. Winnie also showed a lot of growth and I appreciated how she said some things to Channing that had Channing thinking about her choices in life. Ky is a mystery that I definitely need more information about.

When Channing left Win in the hospital, we knew what his plan was and the reasoning behind it, I just didn’t think so much could happen that could thwart his plans. Alastair brings another dimension to the book and I enjoyed seeing Winnie interact with her dad. I’m not sold on Georgie being as mentally unstable as everyone thinks she is, not to say she doesn’t have some issues, I just think they might not be as bad.

Whether Channing can open her heart enough to let Win remains to be seen. I understand why she is the way she is better and my heart broke for her as she told Win her story. Win never gave up on her and continuously proved how he truly felt about her.

Both sets of grandparents were horrible in this book, but their behavior helped Channing see things about herself more clearly. I hope we get at least two more books: one for Alastair and one for Winnie. The supporting characters helped make the main characters more likable, relatable and brought the story to life. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.

[Wildflower Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This was everything I could have wanted from a book duet and so much bloody more! @jay.crownover you truly are a Queen 👑 and thank you so much to @wordsmithpublicity for the ARC.

I devoured this book in a day. The writing was intelligent, the characters full bodied and the storyline kept me on my toes until the epilogue where, hell yes, I cannot wait for more from this world if Crownover gives us another story. It is most definitely a page turner and has so much to offer.

'The Sound of Secrets' begins just where we left off in 'The Silence of Monsters'. Channing and Win's relationship is just as complicated and just as beautiful. Their growth in this book, the ability to get to know them on a deeper level and hope they heal, has you craving their happiness. I don't want to risk of revealing spoilers so just know that this book is full of drama, surprises, throw in some teenage angst and a crazy family and really...What more could you want?? 😊 (The supporting characters are incredible and the spice is on point! ☺️)

This is a 5 Star must read! An incredible book from Crownover and I do hope this isn't the end of this world x

#jaycrownover #jaycrownoverbooks #monsterduet #romancereads #romanceduets #wildflowerreads #wordsmithpublicity

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sound of Secrets is the conclusion of the Monsters Duet. You must read The Silence of Monsters first. There is so much going on especially with Channing. She has a long, difficult journey until the end. I was a bit frustrated with her in the beginning. But she stayed loyal and never gave up. "Win" aka Winchester did such a 180 with his thoughts and actions. I love how humble and thoughtful he is, and his protective vibe was stronger than ever.

There are triggers and a lot of drama as the story concluded. There is a great understanding of all of the characters and definitely potential for a few spin off books.

The Monsters Duet is not your typical Jay Crownover story. As she states in book #1, it is "supposed to have BIG K-drama, telenoveia and old school soap opera vibes. With a splash of Phantom of the Opera thrown in for good measure." There is even more happening with The Sound of Secrets and as the title eludes, several secrets and surprises that were revealed. It had so much more drama throughout the story. It has been an interesting read.

3.75 stars

#AuthorJayCrownover #TheSoundOfSecrets #TheSilenceofMonsters #WinAndChanning #mystery #romance #suspense #arrangedmarriage

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

This is the conclusion to The Monsters Duet. You have to read the first book of course or you will be extremely lost. This book picks up right where we left off in The Silence of Monsters. If I was you I would find the most comfortable edge of your seat reading position there is. You're going to need it. You also will not be putting this book down once you pick it up. This is the continuation and conclusion of Win and Channing's story. To say these two have been though it just doesn't seem like enough to describe all they have been through. Watching these characters overcome all they have been though was awe inspiring and just really hit me hard in the heartstrings. I love that we got to get more of Channing's past. This is one strong girl anyway you slice it. I adore a good strong female lead. The one that surprised me the most is Winnie and you are going to love unwrapping all that is there. I can't really tell you anything about this story line. It is an experience that you need to have for yourself. I promise you are going to love every single second of it.

[Shannon · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was definitely not my favorite Jay Crownover book. I read the first one of the duet. And I was just ok for me. I know some of that was on me as I don’t like the over the top kind of characters (Collette) and the book was pretty predictable. This one though, I really just couldn’t get into. There was to much going on. Channing was not my cup of tea. I hate how she treated Win.
Winnie’s personality changed quite a bit from book one to book two, and not in a good way. You would have thought she would have been more of a snot living under her grandmother, but no, she seemed more snotty in this book.
Overall, this series just wasn’t for me. Can’t say I would read anymore books set in this world with any of these characters. The last few books from this author just seem like she’s trying too hard to be different. Her characters have always been larger than life, and I loved that about most of them. But now some just seem like caricatures of people. Jay is definitely capable of creating the dark and gritty (Nassir is one of my favorites) but this version of twisted just unfortunately didn’t work for me.

[The Book Fairy Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secrets always come back when you least expect them, but always when things seem to be getting better, that is when the other shoe drops. For Channing accepting that she is falling for her husband, she needed to concentrate on that and only that. Trying to untangle her feelings around having feelings for the one person that stirs her and makes her feel safe. But just when she is trying to accept here feelings and share them comes another thing from the past that could derail all her hard work. This is a beautiful ending in this duet, two people that have been dancing around one another for years now finally tied to one another, a tie that started under duress and with a contract is now the one thin that binds them until death do they part.
I love the way Win steps up for her showing her what someone having her back feels like. Something that is completely new for both of them. showing that both of them have to deal with the raw and broken hand that was dealt to them. I admire the way Channing, stands up to her demons and learns to lean on the people that she loves. A brilliant book by a brilliant author.

[Katie Koziczkowski · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sound of Secrets had me hooked right from the start and until the very last page! This world and these characters are so interesting and complex. Many of them have not had an easy life in one way or another, and it's often really sad to read about. Channing’s story, in particular, was hard to read about. I feel for her and everything she's been put through. She's a fighter and has had to work hard to protect herself. It's hard for her to think of others in those hard situations when she's had to think about her safety for so many years. I saw a lot of growth in her throughout the book, and that’s something I always love to see. Win is a great guy. Yes, he can be a little overprotective, but he means well by it. I really like him and Channing as a couple, I think they make a great pair. The storyline was great with a lot of twists and surprises that kept me wondering how everything was going to turn out in the end. I really hope Jay writes the books she has in mind, I would be very excited for those! *I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.*

[Lager Lefse Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sounds of Secrets is the continuation of The Silence of Monsters. It revolves around Winchester Halliday, Channing Harvey, and Winnie Halliday and picks up where The Silence of Monsters left off. While book one was full of mystery and suspense, The Sound of Secrets was still mystery and suspense but also included intrigue, romance, reliving trauma, and regaining past/current relationships.

Book one is more Winchester’s book, and book two is aimed more at Channing and her past (and she has quite the doozy of a past). Channing appears more settled yet conflicted about her ‘feelings’ for Chester. Another big theme throughout is the regrouping of a familial unit. It is hard-fought and beautiful to read about.

Overall, this book was paced well, although there were some elements/themes that slowed the pace down or just weren’t needed. There is a slight possibility that there could be a story regarding Winnie and Kyser Kent. I’m incredibly intrigued by Kyser and his backstory and can’t wait to read it when it becomes available.

[Sylviane BM · Rating 4 out of 5]

The sound of secrets cloture la duologie écrite par Jay Crownover.
C’est une duologie différente de ce qu’on a l’habitude de lire venant de Jay. Et ça fait du bien.

Oui encore des milliardaires, des mariages de convenance, mais ici dans ce second opus, on va s’interesser à Channing, qui avait du mal à cohabiter avec Win, malgré le fait qu’ils devaient le faire pour leur nièce.

Channing a des secrets, et quels secrets! Je ne pensais pas qu’une famille pouvait détruire la vie des gens comme cela, au détriment de leur enfant.
C’est donc Channing et son passé qui est au centre de l’intrigue. Plus on avance dans l’histoire, plus on se sent outrée. Et on comprend pourquoi elle a du mal à faire confiance aux hommes. Mais c’est aussi une personne dévouée, qui n’a jamais montré ses cicatrices.

Et Win? lui il a trouvé la famille qu’il voulait et il est hors de question qu’on fasse du mal à la femme qu’il aime et qu’on s’en prenne à sa nièce.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Before I write my review I will say you absolutely need to read book 1 The Silence of Monsters because it ends on a cliffhanger and this book picks right up where that left off.

I felt this was a perfect conclusion to this duet. It showed the character growth that Win and Channing both had and what they went through after the events of the first book. My heart was being torn for both characters. Knowing how Win felt about Channing and his unwavering love for her was heartbreaking but also beautiful. I love how Win really showed Channing how much she meant to him through this book but it was up to Channing to open herself up to Win and allow him fully into her heart. Channing has been fighting alone all her life. She has a hard time letting people in and I love how it was her niece who gave her the punch (so to speak) that she needed to open her eyes to what and who she has right in front of her.

I really enjoyed the suspense parts in this book. They kept you pulled into the story wanting to know what was going to happen next. I really need the niece to get her own story now especially with that ending because I am invested in her now.

Thank you to the author and wordsmith publicity for the arc of this book

[Anima · Rating 4 out of 5]

The perfect finish to Win and Channing’s story. It’s a must to read the first book before the second as the story continues seamlessly to the next. While the two are adjusting in the aftermath of his mother’s evil, his brother’s healing and Winnie’s growing they manage to find actual feelings for each other. And, the evil is not finished as there’s another person looking to benefit themselves with Halliday money. Win, short for Winchester, matures as an affectionate partner and Channing becomes even braver. Their story is different from the first because it’s not as twisty and evil, but suspenseful and thoughtful. There are a few characters that could have used a bit more details but they weren’t primary so more annoying than important. We’ve been left with a slight inkling to a spin off but this closes the duet. I enjoyed an advanced copy and wrote my review voluntarily.

[Brittany Duncan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book in one sitting. Literally could not put it down because I absolutely had to know how Win and Channing got back together after that cliffhanger in the first book. How does Win forgive Channing for leaving him after being shot and burned? How does Channing forgive Win for blackmailing her into marriage?

This book made me laugh, it made me cry, and the plot twists were insane! I also want a couple of books for the secondary characters because I loved them so much. I would suggest reading the trigger warnings but if you can make it through the first book then you are going to want to read the second no matter the warnings.

"Even without all that money you'll never be a commoner, Win. You'll always be as close to the ruling class as a man without a crown and thrown can get."

[Shelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, so so good! I loved the first novel in this series. I have read other novels by this author and loved them. This novel did not disappoint. I think this is my favorite novel by this author and I really liked the previous novels I have read. I was so excited to jump back into this series. From the first chapter this novel grabbed ahold of my attention and held on tight the entire novel. This novel picks up as the previous novel ends. I loved it. I loved Channing and Win. I loved that in this novel focuses more on their developing relationship and watching them fall in love. Their chemistry was so so good! Once I started reading I could hardly stop. I needed to know what was happening next. I started reading and ended up losing sleep by reading late late late into the night. So worth losing sleep over. I loved it! I can hardly wait to see what this author has coming next.

[Closet Romance Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when I didn’t think there would be anything left to surprise me…enter The Sound Of Secrets! I should have guessed since ‘secret’ was in the title but Jay still got me! This was the second book in her Monsters Duet and must be read in order. It was a rollercoaster of emotions that I could not put down!

Channing was forced into a marriage that she thought she hated until one day, she didn’t. But when everything came crashing down would her marriage to Win survive?

Seriously, I figured I would read a chapter or two before bed. The next thing I knew, the book was over! I was hooked as soon as I started reading. It picked up right where the first book left off and took off running! So much angst and betrayal but also love and hope! I really hope this was not the last we see of this world!! I am invested and need everyone to get their story!

[Kali McQuillen · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading the first book I could not wait for the conclusion to Win's and Channing's story. To see Winnie again and learn more about why Channing was the way she was. Win got more information from her than the report he had drawn up on her. He was surprised the more he learned from her but it made him love her even more.

Channing was so scared to give her whole heart but she thought Win just might be worth it. When even more secrets come out, is Channing going to run or is she going to stay and fight this time? Winnie has grown into a very mature 14 year old that doesn't pull any punches when she's talking to Channing and it's part of what Channing needs.

Loved the book and couldn't put it down!

[Marni Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Sound Of Secrets There is only one word to describe The Sound of Secrets and that��s perfection absolute perfection. After reading The Silence Of Monsters I was left anxiously awaiting the conclusion to Win and Channings epic journey. I mean I actually thought nothing could possibly outdo what was one of the best books I’ve read this year. The Sound Of Secrets just might have done exactly that ! I all the complexities Of Win and Channings characters not to mention their relationship, the intrigue, the suspicion, the dark , raw , gritty , heartbreaking and heartfelt moments, the secrets , the tragedy/ trauma, the obstacles, the development of their relationship, the exceptional world building. I seriously was not prepared for the emotional rolllercoaster I was just taken on . 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤

[Jenn the Readaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everything I hoped for and more!

Oh holy wow. This is exactly the conclusion I needed. Hoped for. Expected. And then it blew all of that out of the water by giving even MORE. Win and Channing are everything. His brothers are men I want to spend more time with. And Winnie? Well, I’m demanding to know how her tale plays out. After all, the guy she seems destined for could be good. Could be bad. Could be opportunistic. Or he could be another person tainted by their memories of dark days and maybe hoping for redemption. I mean, if Win and Channing can find their way past everything those who should care put them through to find a forever love, I think the chances are good that Winnie can also. And Alastair. Definitely him because I kinda adore that man!

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of Channing, Win and Winnie continues, and it doesn’t disappoint. After the events that transpired in the first part of this duet the path forward is uncertain. As we learn more about Channing and her backstory, we realize how strong and resilient she truly is and what she will do for those she loves.

Even though Win may not have chosen the best way to secure his marriage to Channing he doesn’t regret his choices. He is determined to protect Channing and Winnie from everyone and everything and that includes the threats that are escalating around them.

I adored how Winnie helped make Channing and Win a family with her brash honesty. Channing and Win were perfect for each other in every way as they showed that together they could overcome anything.