Hidden Secrets

Mirror Estate #5

by S.F. Baumgartner

Abducted. Trapped. Hunted. Grace Benson must find a way out… or die trying.

After her harrowing escape from a kill order, Grace thought she’d return to a normal life, only to be abducted from her home.

Meanwhile, FBI investigations into the murders of a congressman and his staff uncover a shocking link to Grace's abduction, threatening international stability.

Desperate to survive, Grace allies with an unlikely partner—a child who knows the bunker's secrets—but as they navigate the treacherous tunnel system, a misplaced step echoes through the corridors, alerting a deranged captor who now closes in, gun in hand.

If you like Alex Cross, Gabriel Allon, you will like this unpredictable, fast-paced suspense thriller.

Genres: Thriller, Drama, Suspense, Mystery, Fiction

383 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 24, 2024

About the author

S.F. Baumgartner crafts fast-paced Christian suspense thrillers, weaving tales of complex characters, secretive operatives, and relentless agents. Her gripping storytelling has earned acclaim, with Living Secrets—Book 1 of her Mirror Estate series—named a Top Pick in the thriller category at Killer Nashville, 2024. When she’s not plotting her next twist, she’s binge-watching crime TV shows, like NCIS or playing with her cats. Fans of James Patterson's style, especially those who appreciate short, punchy chapters, will find much to love in her work.

Reviews

[Ruben · Rating 4 out of 5]

The plot thickens as we get into the fourth installment of the series. Once more, characters we've known from the past make their appearance, and some new ones will come into life making of the Mirror Estate series quite an enjoyable read!

It's been not long since Kyle and Grace were saved after some information regarding their location at a safe house leaked out. Luckily, they got out of there and everything would have gone back to normal...until Grace Benson gets abducted putting everything upside down.

Grace's abduction seems to be related to the recent killing of congressman Javier Jimenez who seems to have lived a double life. Who was Javier and what's his connection to Grace? What are the possible consequences/implications of such killing?

It seems it is time for the FBI to once again conduct a series of investigations that lead to Grace's rescue and the unveiling of some more secrets that somehow lead all to the Ghost aka Marge Beaumont, and The Marinos.

Will all remaining secrets be revealed this time? Everything is uncertain, and the only way to find out is by closely following the clues.

Being this the 4th book in the series I can tell I have enjoyed every bit of the plot and look forward to what may come next!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[sofia._.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 5th book in mirror estate series, continuing Grace Benson’s story who was finally at peace until she gets abducted and held hostage in small room(bunker) there’s this little girl with her as well who knows the way to get out of this place through tunnel. Grace asked for help. The FBI is busy with the murder of congressman who’s somehow linked to grace.
Fully action packed, mystery, thriller with lots of twists and turns, I love how the author has described everything be it the characters or the storyline. Plus point: it has short chaps.
I’d definitely recommend this book to y’all also read read the previous books to understand it better.

[Hoor · Rating 5 out of 5]

By the fifth book in the Mirror Estate series, the story has fully found its stride—and then some. What stands out most in this installment is the author’s ability to expand the scope of the narrative without losing the emotional core that anchors it. The tension is sharper, the stakes feel more personal, and the world surrounding these characters grows increasingly complex.

This time, the calm is fleeting. Just when it seems the dust has settled, a shocking turn of events disrupts any illusion of safety. The fallout is immediate and far-reaching, forcing alliances to be tested and long-buried truths to resurface. The pacing is deliberate yet gripping, balancing investigative depth with moments of genuine emotional weight.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths lies in its layered storytelling. Political intrigue, hidden identities, and unresolved history intertwine seamlessly, creating a mystery that feels both intricate and cohesive. Each revelation raises new questions, and just when you think you have a handle on the bigger picture, the narrative shifts in a way that keeps you guessing.

The returning characters continue to evolve in meaningful ways, shaped by the consequences of earlier events. At the same time, new additions to the cast bring fresh dynamics and unexpected perspectives, enriching the overall storyline. The interplay between power, loyalty, and deception is handled with nuance, making the suspense feel earned rather than manufactured.

This fifth installment doesn’t simply build on what came before—it elevates it. It deepens the mythology of the series while maintaining the steady, engaging momentum that has made the Mirror Estate books such compelling reads.

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Took me a while to come this far lol

Okay so the author has this amazing talent I’d say to weave a story that continues from book one to idk how far but it definitely came along till book 5 and I am speechless at her writing abilities. I didn’t expect this series to be this good and unique. It’s definitely a unique concept to write almost 6-7 books in a series without overwhelming the readers by weaving a new story entirely while still holding on to new characters but they are somehow related? Omg I can’t lol

Grace is that one character that will keep you on your toes and I feel like I finished this part faster than the others. I also got super fascinated by the tunnel thing and how ghost is trying to play games while giving out names to the agents.

I’m just highly impressed and would definitely recommend it for the love of dungeons and tunnels lol

[Krysta · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how fast paced this book is! Once I started it I couldn't putnit down. I HAD to knowbwhat was going to happen! Between the kidnapping and murders everything was great about this book. There were twists everywhere! This is the 4th book in the Mirror Estate series and you do need to read them in order to understand what is going on. I can't wait for the next one!!

[Cath · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book four of the Mirror Estate Psychological Thrillers series and the storyline continues its complex wander through the past of the Mirror Estate and its ruling family, with the twisted addition of the Ghost, who wants to be housed in the former asylum on the site, for her own nefarious reasons. She seems to know everything that happens all around the place and further afield. The restaurant on the estate is pretty key to the story, with it being run by Lorraine and her husband Connor, who spots someone outside wondering if they are open, and it reminds him of a man he saw back when he was a teen and he saw his father killed in front of him. He was hidden away on the estate and Fr Phil knows all about this, as the US Marshalls had deposited Connor with him some twenty years ago! He has never forgotten Liam Doyle, who runs with the Irishman Gang and is deadly. Olivia and Dylan are having yet another meeting with The Ghost, Marge Beaumont, who apparently has another name for the FBI Task Force. This one is the Moneyman, who deals with counterfeit currency and also has some sort of connection with the Perez family. Now she has given Olivia the next name, she gets five minutes private time with her nephew Dylan. She wants to find the treasures that were left on the estate. Dylan was given a key by his mother and he and his best friend Tommy found half of a secret map in a box they found buried on the estate. Dylan isn’t quite so keen to have the Ghost on the estate, nor to make a bargain with her, not knowing what her end game is.

The Ghost hinted there were other people after the treasures and that there are all kinds of hidden paths on the estate. Dylan thinks all the minor tunnels have been sealed, except the main ones, but there are far more than he knows of and young Sean, Connor and Lorraine’s son, loves to spend his days exploring them all. Lily, Simon and Olivia’s newly discovered daughter, is now part of a couple with Dylan, and he decides to tell her what he and Tommy have found so far. On the Task Force, Ana asks to check into the Perez family, as she has had dealings with them in the past. Senator Javier Jiminez is meeting with lots of others at a dinner party, amongst them Simon Roth a former senator, and has his campaign manager Nina and his Sam, his chief of staff nearby. Simon had noticed a strange reaction from Javier at the Merino Hotel the other day, but that seems to have passed, apart from him saying he might have to do what Simon has and retire, as he no longer wishes to be back in the family business. The next morning, he is found dead in his room! Kyle has gotten over his jealousy over Lily and has been spending time with Grace Benson, who only recently got rescued from a kill order on her life and Kyle’s life was threatened by the same people. When her brother Alex calls him in a panic, he tells Kyle that someone has taken Grace from her home, just as he was about to visit her. First, he has to call Ana, Grace’s birth mother, something which she has only found out about recently. Ana, Ron and Kyle turn up at Grace’s apartment and check the security feed Alex had put in for her and find the evidence of what happened to her. Alex and Ana check the apartment, and it is Ana who finds a clue, that has clearly been left for her and her alone! It all leads back to her past and her Papi (Jorge Perez), and Prince, whilst she was known as Princess!

Ana now has to reveal to her boss, Ron, exactly what her past was and how she managed to get checked out and join the FBI somehow. The man who kidnapped Grace, won’t tell her why or where he is taking her, saying it doesn’t concern her, which is weird since he took her! But something happens along the way, and it another pair of men who take her to her final location. They have left her locked in a secret room underground, but she has no idea where. Olivia soon finds a mysterious man present in disguise, within the hotel, as Javier was killed and then another couple of people linked to the senator, but she quickly recognises someone with talents similar to hers and discovers MI6 are apparently working undercover on her case. Grace’s captors have somehow figured out the link between Ana and Papi, Jorge Perez, wanting him to give control of his business to the new Prince, Hugo. Ana’s Prince disappeared sometime after she left and was called Julio back then. Papi lost sight of him but has moved closer to Ana without her knowledge as he hopes to leave the family business. It seems there might be a power struggle going on for control of the Perez empire and it is somehow linked with the Moneyman case the FBI Task Force are working on. Eva, the estate owner’s new assistant, took Kyle to meet Connor, to check if he knew a person in a phot Kyle brought her. The man in the photo is who Kyle believes took Grace. When mention is made of the van she was taken in, the new security head of the estate, Ortiz, asks to see it and says it looks like the van that came onto the estate the previous afternoon and which was never seen to leave! A reason for Grace being taken is discovered, as she turns out to be Jorge Perez’s granddaughter! Another two dead bodies get found at the hotel and Olivia believes the secretive MI6 agent is involved. Things start to heat up, as they figure out Grace must be at the estate somewhere. They look for young Sean, who apparently knows the secret tunnels the best, as he spends all his time exploring them.

By then, Grace has decided to do her own exploring, leaving herself a trail of breadcrumbs, to ensure she doesn’t get lost and hears sounds of another, but not her captors. She has come across Sean, but he is on the other side of a wall and she can’t reach him or get out. It seems her unlikely partnership with this young boy, may be her only way out of the nightmare she has found herself in, but it won’t end too easily as his father gets involved and her captor becomes ever more deranged! Grace and Sean find a secret room by accident, leading to part of a treasure map and other surprises, all of which Dylan will need to see later on. There are lots of puzzles to be solved in this episode of the tale, with lots of diverging queries coming together, linking to one family and those who want to take over, using any innocent parties they can to take over. Sean plays a key role at the end, but Grace has yet to share the map she found, with so much else going on as she meets her birth mother’s father for the first time and learns more about her birth family, and Ana must wait to see what will happen to her next, after her own secrets were revealed! So much going on, but still the huge secrets of what The Ghost is looking for and what she expects to find at the Estate, to be uncovered. She can’t be trusted, no matter what she says! I can’t wait to see what comes next.

I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout, and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.

[Noorie Hassan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hidden Secrets, the fifth installment in The Mirror Estate Series, is unfortunately a disappointing read for me. My interest noticeably declined after Grace’s rescue from the tunnels, as the storyline began to feel slow and less engaging. The plot seems overcrowded with characters, yet offers very limited background depth, making it difficult to stay fully invested.

I would have appreciated a stronger focus on developing Grace’s relationship with her biological mother, Ana, or her dynamic with Kyle. Additionally, Connor’s backstory feels under-explored and the subplot involving his son Sean in the tunnels comes across as somewhat prolonged.

I had hoped to enjoy this installment as much as the earlier books in the series, but it didn’t quite meet those expectations.

[Mutaharah Shafiq · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay but… oh my God, that ending??? A full-on cliffhanger. Completely unfair. The author really did us BADDD here because I cannot stop thinking about what’s going to happen in the next book.
Honestly, I’m just really glad this book actually lived up to its thriller label, because it’s been so long since I’ve read a genuinely good thriller. And this one felt different. It wasn’t the usual murder-mystery formula I keep running into. The plot was fresh, new, and actually kept me on my toes.

This is book five of the MIRROR ESTATE series, and I’m reviewing it as a booktour reviewer, so I’ll say this clearly: every single chapter had something happening. Nothing felt dragged out. I’ll be honest though, the first few chapters were a bit confusing hehe I was genuinely like, “Okay… what exactly is going on here?” But once those chapters passed, the story really picked up and I was fully invested.

The kidnapping, the detectives trying to piece everything together, the CCTV angles, how Grace was taken and where she ended up all of it was intense. Reading about Grace’s struggle to survive and find a way out while everyone else was researching, chasing leads, and trying to connect the dots kept me hooked. The restaurant element was surprisingly interesting too, and every chapter had this curious vibe that just made you want to keep reading one more chapter.

That said, I do have one flaw to point out: there were a lot of characters, and the constant scene switching in every chapter made it a bit hard to keep track of who was who and what exactly was happening at times.
Still, overall? I’d definitely recommend this one if you’re in the mood for a thriller that actually delivers.

[Nyle · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story of Hidden Secrets in the Mirror Estate series unfolds, the stakes rise and the intrigue deepens. Familiar faces return, seamlessly joined by compelling new characters, making this latest chapter another thoroughly engaging addition to an already captivating saga.

Not long after Kyle and Grace narrowly escaped danger when their safe house location was compromised, it seems as though life might finally return to normal. But that sense of calm is short-lived. Grace Benson’s sudden abduction turns everything upside down, plunging the narrative into even darker and more complex territory.

Her disappearance appears to be connected to the recent murder of Congressman Javier Jimenez. How is he tied to Grace? And what broader consequences might unfold as a result of his death? These questions drive the story forward with mounting tension.

Once again, the FBI is drawn into a web of layered investigations, each revelation peeling back yet another secret. The threads inevitably lead back to the elusive Ghost—Marge Beaumont—and the Marinos. With so many hidden agendas and unresolved mysteries, the suspense remains palpable throughout.

As this book in the series, this installment delivers everything I’ve come to appreciate about the Mirror Estate novels: intricate plotting, evolving characters, and a steady undercurrent of suspense. I’ve enjoyed every moment and eagerly anticipate what lies ahead.

[Azka · Rating 4 out of 5]

This installment delivers an engaging blend of suspense, family conflict, and hidden motives that keeps the story compelling from beginning to end. The narrative is built around a high-stakes investigation, but what truly elevates the book is the emotional complexity behind the mystery. Every character seems to carry unfinished history, making each interaction feel layered and significant.

The author does an excellent job of gradually unveiling long-buried truths while maintaining a strong sense of tension throughout the novel. The plot is filled with shifting loyalties, unexpected revelations, and moments that continually challenge the reader’s assumptions. I particularly enjoyed how the personal and criminal elements of the story were woven together so seamlessly.

I was able to follow the main storyline and appreciate the relationships between the characters. At the same time, it was clear that this series has a rich backstory, and I found myself wanting to go back and experience the earlier installments to better understand the characters’ journeys and connections.

The pacing remained consistently engaging, balancing emotional moments with suspenseful developments in a way that made the book difficult to put down. By the final chapters, the story leaves enough unanswered questions and intriguing possibilities to create genuine anticipation for what comes next in the series.

[Bette Reith · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Mirror Estate series just hit a high note with the release of Hidden Secrets. Of note is the complexity and intertwining of characters in this series. It is best read in order. I am very thankful for the Family tree the author provides – a very useful tool
This book is primarily about the abduction of Grace. Seemingly having no enemies, investigators and friends are at a loss as to why, and when there is no ransom demanded, the questions come fast and furious with few answers. There is more to this story as told in different perspectives. Her mother, holding tight to secrets from the past, an unusual request for a lifer criminal to stay at the estate instead of in prison, more exploration of the tunnels revealing more of their secrets, and much more.
The author takes all of these personalities and situations and combines them in understandable and real-life manner. He is skilled at coming up with a resolution, only to put more questions in your mind about future books.
I love the characters and how they are being developed through the series. Each has their own place and time in the story line. Beautiful descriptions of the area and building that are key to the story. I can’t wait for the next installment. Slam Dunk!! If you like mystery thrillers without all the gore and sex, this author is for you. Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC of this book.

[Usman Abbasi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel weaves together mystery, betrayal, and power struggles in a way that keeps the story consistently engaging. The plot is layered with complicated relationships, long-buried truths, and dangerous alliances, creating a narrative where every revelation feels connected to something larger.

One of the strongest aspects of the book is its cast of characters and the dynamics between them. Certain rivalries and unresolved conflicts add a constant sense of tension, making even quieter scenes feel significant. The story never remains still for long—every chapter introduces another clue, complication, or unexpected turn that pushes the mystery further.

I especially enjoyed the atmospheric elements woven into the investigation. Secret passageways, covert missions, and unanswered questions surrounding the central mystery all contribute to the book’s suspenseful tone. The author does an excellent job of balancing action with intrigue, making the story feel both expansive and tightly constructed at the same time.

While I would have loved slightly more time devoted to a few of the emotional beats, the pacing overall is incredibly compelling and makes the novel difficult to set aside.

For readers who enjoy intricate thrillers filled with layered storytelling, high stakes, and interconnected characters, this is a thoroughly absorbing read.

[Vinter Blue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hidden Secrets centers on Grace Benson as her life takes a sudden, frightening turn when she becomes caught in a situation far more dangerous than she expected. What begins as confusion quickly grows into a tense fight for safety, answers, and survival. At the same time, the investigation surrounding her situation slowly uncovers deeper layers tied to the past, showing that this danger didn’t appear out of nowhere.

The story balances emotional tension with steady suspense. Grace isn’t portrayed as fearless, she reacts like a real person would: scared, overwhelmed, but determined. That realism makes the stakes feel higher. The sense of urgency builds naturally, especially as trust becomes uncertain and every new piece of information changes what the characters think they know.

What I appreciated most is how the mystery unfolds through small revelations rather than dramatic shocks. The atmosphere feels tight and uneasy, and the connections to earlier events add depth without overwhelming the reader.

Overall, Hidden Secrets is a gripping, character-driven suspense novel that keeps you invested through tension, emotion, and the slow uncovering of truths that were never meant to surface.

[Uzma · Rating 5 out of 5]

The fifth installment in the Mirror Estate series continues Mirror Estate with Grace Benson’s story. Just when Grace finally seems to have found peace, she is abducted and imprisoned in a small underground bunker. Trapped alongside her is a young girl who appears to know of a possible escape route through a hidden tunnel. Desperate and vulnerable, Grace must find a way to survive and seek help before it is too late.

Meanwhile, the FBI is occupied with investigating the murder of a congressman — a case that somehow connects back to Grace, adding another compelling layer to the narrative.

This novel is a gripping blend of action, mystery, and psychological suspense, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep the reader engaged throughout. The author does an excellent job of crafting both the characters and the storyline with remarkable detail and intensity. Another highlight is the short chapters, which make the book incredibly fast-paced and difficult to put down.

I would highly recommend this book to thriller enthusiasts, especially those who enjoy suspense-driven series. However, reading the previous books in the series beforehand will greatly enhance the overall experience and understanding of the story.

[Stephen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This installment delivers an addictive blend of suspense, mystery, and emotional tension that makes it difficult to put down. Every chapter introduces a new layer to the story, creating an atmosphere filled with uncertainty and anticipation. The pacing is exceptionally well handled, balancing shocking revelations with quieter moments that deepen the intrigue.

What stood out most to me was the way the author maintained a constant sense of unease throughout the narrative. The investigation felt unpredictable, and the shifting perspectives added depth while keeping the reader questioning everyone’s motives. Just when I thought I had figured things out, another twist completely changed the direction of the story.

Because this series builds so heavily on previous events and relationships, I would definitely recommend reading the earlier books beforehand to fully appreciate the emotional impact and ongoing developments. The continuity between installments is one of the series’ greatest strengths.

This book intensifies the suspense and expands the story in exciting ways. It left me eager for the next installment and curious to see how everything will unfold moving forward.

[Aisha Haneef · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished Hidden Secrets by SF Baumgartner, and honestly, my heart is still racing! This isn't just another kidnapping story; it’s a high-stakes chess game…Seeing Grace Benson forced into a survival battle inside those suffocating tunnels made me feel like I was right there, holding my breath with her. The way the author connects a political assassination to Grace’s disappearance is genius it makes the world of the Mirror Estate series feel massive and dangerous….

I’ve become such a huge fan of this world that I’m not satisfied with just reading it once. I’ve decided to collect physical copies of the entire series for my library. The moment the books are back in stock, I’m grabbing them all because this is the kind of story you want to re-read & experience all over again. If you crave that 'edge-of-your-seat' feeling you get from legends like Gabriel Allon, you seriously need to check this out.

It’s easily one of the best suspense thrillers I’ve ever picked up! 🙌🏻✨

Highly Recommend:)

[Misbah Alam · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was such a fast paced, intense read. From the first few chapters, the story just takes off and doesn’t slow down. I genuinely felt that just one more chapter urge the whole timeee.

This book mainly revolves around Grace’s abduction, and what really got me was how confusing everything felt. She doesn’t seem to have enemies, there’s no ransom, and everyone is just left with questions piling up with barely any answers. With multiple povs and more secrets my favorite part was the haunted twist and in a helpful wayy! lol it was unexpected and I loved it.

Since this is the fourth book in the series, I would really recommend reading the earlier ones first bcz everything connects and builds on each other. But I did appreciate that the author included a recap at the beginning!! It definitely helps refresh your memory and makes things easier to follow.

I’m honestly excited to see what happens next in the series bczz this one definitely raised the stakes.

[Syed Bilal · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel delivers a suspenseful and intricately layered psychological thriller filled with hidden motives, danger, and high-stakes tension. The story combines an intense abduction case with a larger criminal investigation, creating a narrative that remains engaging and unpredictable throughout.

The underground tunnel setting added a particularly atmospheric element to the novel, heightening the sense of urgency and suspense. I also appreciated the inclusion of a recap and family guide, which helped navigate the large cast of interconnected characters and ongoing storylines.

Although the book can still be enjoyed independently, it is clearly part of a broader narrative, and reading the earlier installments would likely provide a deeper understanding of the characters and their histories. Overall, it was an entertaining and fast-paced read filled with mystery, secrets, and constant intrigue.

[Avid reader Di · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fabulous story. The author takes the reader on another wonderful ride full of suspense and danger. This not a stand alone novel the reader will get more satisfaction if they have read the prelude book

and the previous 3 books in the Mirror Estate series. They are all available on Amazon.ca. I borrowed all of them through my Unlimited Kindle account. I am really glad I discovered Buried Secrets. This is a series that just grabs you in.

In Hidden Secrets, the characters are just perfect for the plot. I really liked how the author gave an outline of all the characters so I could keep them straight. The map of the Mirror Estate hidden tunnels was great. The settings are numerous but beautifully described so one can easily imagine being there in the thick of the action. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Usama Akram · Rating 4 out of 5]

This installment is an immersive and suspense-filled thriller that keeps the tension high from beginning to end. The author skillfully combines danger, mystery, and intricate character dynamics to create a story that feels both compelling and cinematic. The detailed settings and atmospheric descriptions make it easy to become fully absorbed in the unfolding events.

One of the novel’s strengths is its well-organized structure. The character guide and estate tunnel map were thoughtful additions that enhanced the reading experience and helped bring the world of the story vividly to life. While the book can be followed on its own, the emotional depth and overarching plot are far more rewarding when the series is read in order.

This is a gripping continuation of a series that continues to build momentum with each installment, leaving readers eager to discover what happens next.

[Sheri Corriero · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good psychological thriller. I understand this is book 4 of the Mirror Estate series. I have not read the previous ones so I missed the background of the characters but the author gives a recap at the beginning. There are so many characters, so it’s good the author gives a family tree. In this book, Grace is abducted. She has just escaped from another situation and now she is marked again. She has to find her way through a maze of underground tunnels to try to escape. At the same time, the FBI is also conducting an investigation on a murdered politician. I think if I started with the first book, it would have been easier because then I would know all the things. I enjoyed the book though with all of its suspense and secrets. I received an ARC copy from the author and this is my honest review.

[Junaid Nasir · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh boy it took me so long to reach book 5 but it was worth every minute I spent reading. Yes you’ll have to read all parts to understand the gist of it plus you’ll understand the old characters better.

Grace gets abducted yet again and I am really looking forward to see how her relationship builds with Kyle. The abduction part is ok but the underground tunnels in mirror estate are creepy. Grace teams up with Sean, yes the little kid from the restaurant. He’s smart and vigilant. So is Grace. The sign language scene gets the most points.

I surely recommend this book and I can’t wait to see what happens next. Because the cast is huge but the author made sure to dedicate a part to every character (sweet)

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book honestly feels like a whole web of secrets layered over crime, politics, family drama, and hidden pasts.

I really liked how everything connects. Dylan’s storyline is still my favorite, especially his tension with the Ghost. There’s always something happening, and the twists just keep coming. The hidden tunnels, treasure mystery, undercover operations… it all adds to the suspense.

Sometimes I wished a few emotional moments lasted a little longer, but overall it’s such a fast and gripping read.

If you enjoy thrillers with lots of interconnected characters and constant tension, this one definitely keeps you hooked.

[Muhammad Mohsin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The epic series continues even after the boxset. Every part ended on a cool and interesting cliffhanger that I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I dived into the next part right away because I couldn’t stop thinking about it!!!

Grace is the mc character here and there’s another case going on simultaneously about the congressman Javier who was mysteriously killed. There’s a really unexpected connection between Javier and Grace but you’ll have to read the book to find out. Grace teams up Sean and I enjoyed that part thoroughly. Although it was scary watching them find their way but I loved the duo.

[Hassan Mehdi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fifth part and so far the most interesting one as the others have a proper case to solve.. don’t get me wrong.. this one is also a case but this one was more on the creepy ghostly side.. not that there was any ghost in there lol but still ykwim..
Grace Benson is the main character here.. she was abducted from her apartment before but she thought finally she is free but suddenly she’s kidnapped again.. I would really like to see her and Kyle’s relationship move forward.. I’m glad Dylan and Lily ended up together as they both have similar kind of energy..
The book ends on yet another cliffhanger and I’m excited about the next part

[Hyder Niazi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel delivers an atmosphere of constant suspense, with twists and revelations that keep the story engaging throughout. The multiple perspectives add depth to the mystery surrounding Grace’s abduction, while the layered secrets and tension make the plot especially compelling. I also appreciated the inclusion of visual details, such as the tunnel map, which enhanced the reading experience and made the setting feel more immersive. Although the book provides a helpful recap, the series is best enjoyed in order to fully appreciate the overarching story and character dynamics. It’s an exciting and well-crafted thriller that leaves readers eager for the next installment.

[Vicki F · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast-paced, action packed, page turner! Hidden Secrets is the 4th book (plus a prequel) in this series by S. F. Baumgartner. So many plot lines and characters that will give you whiplash unless you have read the books in order. Thankfully the author gives a recap of each book at the beginning of Hidden Secrets (just in case you need a reminder). Definitely kept me alert to follow all the clues.

Releases Sep 24th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Lena Duke · Rating 5 out of 5]

If there’s one thing Baumgartner knows it’s suspense. If you haven’t already read the first three books of this series, I’d do that. There’s a wrap-up/summary of the books at the beginning, which I appreciated, but you’ll get a better look at the whole picture and story if you read all of the books in order.

Another thing I appreciate about this one, is the map showing the hidden tunnels. It helped bring the story to life in my head.

You’ll read this through multiple POV and witness the story behind the abduction of Grace. There’s secrets, suspense, mystery, and thrill.

Another great story and I can’t wait to see what comes next!

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author lead us into a crime that became intertwined with family secrets and greed. I enjoyed the recap of the previous books and relationship chart at the beginning of this book. I received this book as a stand alone to read and was brought into a family’s world that include a history in a notorious crime family and those who escaped that life. But when the granddaughter is abducted family secrets must be revealed to find her. I enjoyed this mystery thriller, and feel this would have been even a better experience if I had read the series so would have had the opportunity to get to know these characters more. Looking forward to reading more, especially since the ending let is have a peek into the next mystery to solve.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay I’m loving this series so fat. Just got done with this one. It’s the fifth book in the series and I can’t emphasise enough how good this series is. I mean the author did an excellent job at continuing the series without exhausting it and interconnecting everything.

Grace is the main character here and her struggles through out this book gave me creeps but also kept me on my toes. My heart was racing all the time. Yes the starting is slow but once you fully dive in, there’s no going back!

Highly recommended!!!