Secrets

Law and Disorder #1

by C.E. Mathis

While working a difficult case, FBI Special Agent Cole Harvey meets attorney Ellie James. He thinks he may have found the one, but he can't trust her? She's hiding something from him and the case he's working is complicating his judgement.

Elliott "Ellie" James is a sweet girl from Louisiana. She's worked hard to become an attorney in New York City at a very young age, despite a hard start in life. Her father taught her many things about life and death. He also taught her how to survive. However, he didn’t teach Ellie anything about love. So, when she meets Cole, she's not prepared for the feelings that come with him.

Her southern charm can be misleading, because she has a dark secret. And SA Harvey is getting closer to figuring it out.

341 pages, Hardcover

First published March 11, 2025

About the author

C.E. Mathis started reading romance novels at the suggestion of a friend. Having always been a fan of realistic fantasy, she loved books that felt like she could find herself in similar situations. When the stories she read never turned out the way she wanted, C.E. decided to write her own.

In her spare time, when she's not reading or writing, C.E. Mathis loves action films, old television shows, all things crime and spending time with her two rescue dogs.

Reviews

[Johnna Marie Silvester · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kept me on my toes trying to figure out who was the killer. What her secret was. But I loved their relationship. The way they needed each other to be better and how they reacted just from being near each other.

This books keeps you wanting more!!!

[Aimee Leddon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn’t put it down! The only reason I didn’t finish it in a day was because I started it while traveling for a family emergency. Once the plane landed I had to let it be until i got on my return flight. Every chapter was engaging, perfect amount of smut, mystery, and excitement. I can’t wait to start the next in the series!

[Micheal A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

You have such a unique voice, and I really admire the way you were able to make every page so engaging. Honestly, it’s one of those books that stays with you long after reading.

[Lexie Raye · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a good book with so many different plot twists and depth in the story. I couldn’t put it down. The end totally surprised me and now I’m so excited for book 2!

[Crystal Lyn LeGros · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read!!! I loved all the plot twists

[Breanna Nurse · Rating 5 out of 5]

okay this was GOODDD😮‍💨 i literally binged this book in a day. the action kept me on my toes, i could not put this down !! and the smut… cole harvey, THE MAN YOU ARE !!🤤

[Rachel Bishop · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not even a true crime junkie!

Pros: genuinely didn’t predict the ending which means a LOT to me! I was interested the whole time. And I’m usually a fantasy romance reader so this was new for me. Plus, I liked that the second book segue had a decent buildup so I’m curious to read about Keyser’s story now
Cons: just typos. I’m an editor and spelling nerd at heart though :)

[Abby Westbrook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do I even begin?! The author put so much detail in every chapter, making it easy to picture in my head as I read. The characters have such a good storyline. Ellie is my girl, fearless and strong. Independent. I obviously love Cole, who wouldn’t? The spice in this book is *chefs kiss*
The first book I have read in a long time that I couldn’t stop thinking about! I’m ready for book #2!! Hurry!!

[Cynthia Clement · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author paints a picture really well. I can see everything that’s happening. I loved Cole. He’s sexy and funny. Knows what he wants and won’t stop going for it. Ellie is such a badass. No damsel in distress over here. She has guts and is a strong leading lady. And AHHH the spice!!

🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Can’t wait to read other titles from this author

[Janet Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written and with more body than most romance novels. Mathis draws you into the story by humanizing Cole and Ellie and their search for trust in one another and in their own judgement.