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Where Secrets Find Solace
After ten years behind bars, a woman walks free—but freedom comes with its own sentence in this bold and unsparing novel by national bestselling author Kimberly Brown.
After serving a ten-year sentence for killing her mother’s boyfriend, Alayah Chambers is finally free—but freedom comes at a cost. Haunted by the abuse that landed her in prison and judged by a society that still sees her as a criminal, Alayah must piece together a new life in a world that isn’t quick to forgive. Determined to reclaim her future, she sets out to confront the ghosts of her past—including the woman who failed her the her own mother.
Killian Lake, a successful attorney and Alayah’s childhood friend, never forgot her—or the signs he missed back then. When a colleague offers him the chance to help overturn her conviction, he doesn’t hesitate. Reunited after years apart, the chemistry between them simmers beneath the surface. And while Alayah keeps her heart guarded, Killian’s steady support begins to chip away at her defenses.
As buried secrets emerge and old wounds resurface, Alayah must will she let her past define her future, or embrace the love and justice she’s always deserved? With Killian by her side, healing is within reach—but only if she’s willing to claim it.
After serving a ten-year sentence for killing her mother’s boyfriend, Alayah Chambers is finally free—but freedom comes at a cost. Haunted by the abuse that landed her in prison and judged by a society that still sees her as a criminal, Alayah must piece together a new life in a world that isn’t quick to forgive. Determined to reclaim her future, she sets out to confront the ghosts of her past—including the woman who failed her the her own mother.
Killian Lake, a successful attorney and Alayah’s childhood friend, never forgot her—or the signs he missed back then. When a colleague offers him the chance to help overturn her conviction, he doesn’t hesitate. Reunited after years apart, the chemistry between them simmers beneath the surface. And while Alayah keeps her heart guarded, Killian’s steady support begins to chip away at her defenses.
As buried secrets emerge and old wounds resurface, Alayah must will she let her past define her future, or embrace the love and justice she’s always deserved? With Killian by her side, healing is within reach—but only if she’s willing to claim it.
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Published December 16, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
December 20, 2025
Whew, this one took me through it! 🥹 This book turned a devastating, traumatic experience into a beautiful love story. Alayah's story is raw and emotional, and Kimberly Brown doesn't shy away from the reality of her struggles. Each step forward feels earned, and setbacks are real. I connected deeply with her emotions.
What struck me was the subtlety of the love story. Killian isn’t a savior; he’s steady, patient, and present, making him even more captivating. Their bond is rooted in shared history, slowly rebuilt trust, and the understanding that love often means waiting and listening. I also loved the rekindling of sisterhood between Alayah and her younger sisters, along with the support and grace from family and friends during her healing.
This isn’t an easy read, but it is a meaningful one.Please protect your peace and read the triggers in the author’s note.
What struck me was the subtlety of the love story. Killian isn’t a savior; he’s steady, patient, and present, making him even more captivating. Their bond is rooted in shared history, slowly rebuilt trust, and the understanding that love often means waiting and listening. I also loved the rekindling of sisterhood between Alayah and her younger sisters, along with the support and grace from family and friends during her healing.
This isn’t an easy read, but it is a meaningful one.Please protect your peace and read the triggers in the author’s note.
January 8, 2026
Imagine being violated by your mama’s boyfriend and she refuses to believe you. Imagine being fed up and, after years of abuse, taking matters into your own hands to stop the abuse just for your mama to side with your abuser’s family and help the DAs office convict you. My heart just broke for Alayah. She was betrayed by her trash azz mama then, the system stuck another knife in her back. After serving 10 years, Alayah is paroled and she begins her redemption journey. This book was hard to read and it tugged at every single one of my heartstrings. It was raw, emotional, gut wrenching, and real. But, Alayah was able to turn her trauma into a beautiful love story she thought she’d never experience. Killian was just……..I don’t know that I can express how magnificent this man was. He was patient, he was kind, he was nurturing, and he was loving. He was everything Alayah needed when she needed it. I loved the slow burn of their relationship. Given the subject matter, KB paced it perfectly. “I want you—all of you—whenever you are ready for me. When you feel like you can’t love yourself, I’ll love you enough for the both of us. I’ll remind you of your worth when that little voice in your head is being cruel. I choose you. I choose you through your laughter and your tears, through your triumphs and struggles.” Come on Killian! Where Secrets Find Solace was a struggle to get through but, it’s a story that needed to be told. Unfortunately, Alayah’s story may be someone else’s reality so be very mindful of the triggers.
December 19, 2025
Kimberly Brown does it again! She shows us that her pen game is versatile through her latest by giving us a women’s fiction piece. This was not an easy read to say the least the themes are heavy so go into this with caution. Kimberly Brown follows through with redemption at the end for our main FMC which I can only think was it truly redemption. This book gave you some insight in how screwed the criminal justice system can be and what it looks like on the other side and fighting for a sense of normalcy when society is fighting against you.
January 7, 2026
A very emotionally charged read/listen. My mind was not truly prepared. 🥺 This is why having an opinion on someone else’s body makes zero sense to me. A choice is solely HER CHOICE. Kennedy should have been given the right to choose. And that should have been to ABORT! How can you hate your own babies! So shameful!! As a result a precious life suffered acts no child should and an unfortunate incarceration, an animal lost his life (rightly so) all because Kennedy did not ABORT! Even Alayah asked her why didnt she. Smh.
I loved Alayah and Killian as soon as they made their entrances. The grace and patience Killian gave her was impeccable. This story truly gave the definition to love is patient and love is kind. I enjoyed the audio I think the narrators did a good job.
Bravo Kimberly Brown!
I loved Alayah and Killian as soon as they made their entrances. The grace and patience Killian gave her was impeccable. This story truly gave the definition to love is patient and love is kind. I enjoyed the audio I think the narrators did a good job.
Bravo Kimberly Brown!
December 31, 2025
Where Secrets Find Solace by Kimberly Brown is my third read from her and honestly, she did that. This story is heavy, emotional, and deeply layered, but it’s also beautiful in the way it handles survival and healing. Alayah’s past is heartbreaking, especially knowing she was punished by a system that failed her when she was only defending herself. Watching her try to rebuild her life after everything she endured had me fully invested and rooting for her every step of the way.
I loved how the story moves between timelines because it lets you really understand who Alayah was before prison and who she is after. Seeing those two versions of her side by side made everything hit harder. Killian was such a bright spot in this story. He was sweet, patient, and protective in a way that felt genuine, not forced. Their connection felt like reclaiming something they were both denied as kids. Kennedy was the true villain of this book, and her misplaced anger toward Alayah was devastating to witness, especially since Alayah had no control over what happened to her.
What made this story even stronger was the support Alayah did have. Her aunt and uncle never stopped fighting for her, and Killian staying by her side meant everything. I also loved seeing justice finally be served and Alayah getting the chance at a fresh start, reconnecting with her sisters, building new friendships, and finding her way through life. Rodney’s family was absolute trash, but it only highlighted who really showed up for her. This book is emotional and powerful, so please make sure to check the trigger warnings before reading.
I loved how the story moves between timelines because it lets you really understand who Alayah was before prison and who she is after. Seeing those two versions of her side by side made everything hit harder. Killian was such a bright spot in this story. He was sweet, patient, and protective in a way that felt genuine, not forced. Their connection felt like reclaiming something they were both denied as kids. Kennedy was the true villain of this book, and her misplaced anger toward Alayah was devastating to witness, especially since Alayah had no control over what happened to her.
What made this story even stronger was the support Alayah did have. Her aunt and uncle never stopped fighting for her, and Killian staying by her side meant everything. I also loved seeing justice finally be served and Alayah getting the chance at a fresh start, reconnecting with her sisters, building new friendships, and finding her way through life. Rodney’s family was absolute trash, but it only highlighted who really showed up for her. This book is emotional and powerful, so please make sure to check the trigger warnings before reading.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Narration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you NetGalley, Kimberly Brown, and RBmedia for the ALC!
Kimberly Brown's Where Secrets Find Solace took me on an unforgettable roller coaster ride of emotions that absolutely gripped me. This book had me in my feelings—I was genuinely so hurt for Alayah as she went through those unfortunate events.
The characters evoked powerful responses in me. I have to say, Alayah's mom had me so angry! This woman is truly the lowest of the low. Her actions had me stressed out!
But then there's Killian...... Just Wow! He is a man's man! I loved how he stepped up and supported the woman he always loved. He was the hero Alayah, and the reader, needed.
The story doesn't just focus on the personal drama; it exposes a dark side of the world. The levels of corruption throughout this story are diabolical! It added a frustrating but compelling layer of conflict to the narrative.
Despite the intensity and the low points, I really loved the support from the families and how they came together as a strong unit. That sense of protection and unity was a beautiful contrast to the darkness.
Where Secrets Find Solace is a powerful read that completely trapped me in its drama.
🎧 Audiobook Experience
The narrators, Morris Kellswater and Charlie L. Wood, do an incredible job bringing the intensity of the characters to life. Their voices truly capture the anger I felt toward Alayah's mother and the depth of feeling I had for Alayah. Listening to Killian's steady, strong voice, likely performed by one of the narrators, made his supportive actions even more impactful. The narration adds another level of emotional connection to this already gripping story.
Narration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you NetGalley, Kimberly Brown, and RBmedia for the ALC!
Kimberly Brown's Where Secrets Find Solace took me on an unforgettable roller coaster ride of emotions that absolutely gripped me. This book had me in my feelings—I was genuinely so hurt for Alayah as she went through those unfortunate events.
The characters evoked powerful responses in me. I have to say, Alayah's mom had me so angry! This woman is truly the lowest of the low. Her actions had me stressed out!
But then there's Killian...... Just Wow! He is a man's man! I loved how he stepped up and supported the woman he always loved. He was the hero Alayah, and the reader, needed.
The story doesn't just focus on the personal drama; it exposes a dark side of the world. The levels of corruption throughout this story are diabolical! It added a frustrating but compelling layer of conflict to the narrative.
Despite the intensity and the low points, I really loved the support from the families and how they came together as a strong unit. That sense of protection and unity was a beautiful contrast to the darkness.
Where Secrets Find Solace is a powerful read that completely trapped me in its drama.
🎧 Audiobook Experience
The narrators, Morris Kellswater and Charlie L. Wood, do an incredible job bringing the intensity of the characters to life. Their voices truly capture the anger I felt toward Alayah's mother and the depth of feeling I had for Alayah. Listening to Killian's steady, strong voice, likely performed by one of the narrators, made his supportive actions even more impactful. The narration adds another level of emotional connection to this already gripping story.
January 5, 2026
3.5 ⭐️ I enjoyed how unique the plot was. I kind of feel like something was missing but I this was a good read.
December 16, 2025
I received an ALC from NetGalley of Where Secrets Find Solace and I’m so glad I did. This book opens with us learning that our FMC is 10 years into serving a 30 year sentence for killing her mother’s boyfriend for SAing from age 13-17. Soon after she is made aware that she has a parole hearing, this is where we meet the MMC. He’s a lawyer who is asked by a colleague to look into her case and he finds out that it’s his old study partner/childhood crush. They work to get Alayah free and now she has to adapt to her newfound freedom. All the old feelings hit Killian is trying to get close to her again. We then follow both as they navigate their budding friendship that Killian wants to more from. As the old saying goes what’s done in the dark will come to light many things come to fruition about the case and a lot of family secrets come to light. This is actually more of a suspense romance more than anything and I’m here for it! Kimberly does so well with this genre that she should definitely lean more into it. A five star read for me for sure!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 8, 2026
This book was heartbreaking but also beautiful. I believe it's marketed as being contemporary romance but some of the topics may be triggering to some readers so I recommend reading with caution.
Alayah Chambers has spent 10 years behind bars for murder. A murder that in my opinion, while not moral was definitely justifiable. As a young child she had been abused by her mother's boyfriend. Her mother didn't believe her, he had no intention of stopping and worse off she had younger siblings she feared he may eventually turn his attention to.
She went to prison, she served her time and yet even after release she doesn't feel free. She doesn't have to be alone though, someone from her past is there and he wants to help her heal if she will only allow him.
I think this story has a lot of different elements that come together cohesively and beautifully. I enjoyed the romance but my favorite parts are actually just watching Alayah heal and being able to reunite with her siblings.
I received a copy in exchange for my honest review.
Alayah Chambers has spent 10 years behind bars for murder. A murder that in my opinion, while not moral was definitely justifiable. As a young child she had been abused by her mother's boyfriend. Her mother didn't believe her, he had no intention of stopping and worse off she had younger siblings she feared he may eventually turn his attention to.
She went to prison, she served her time and yet even after release she doesn't feel free. She doesn't have to be alone though, someone from her past is there and he wants to help her heal if she will only allow him.
I think this story has a lot of different elements that come together cohesively and beautifully. I enjoyed the romance but my favorite parts are actually just watching Alayah heal and being able to reunite with her siblings.
I received a copy in exchange for my honest review.
January 11, 2026
Let me start by saying this right now: be mindful of your triggers going into this book, because Kimberly Brown does not sugarcoat trauma. She gives you the real, and sometimes the real is hard to sit with. When the people who are supposed to protect you fail you over and over again, you start doing whatever you have to do just to survive… and that desperation can change the entire course of your life.
Alayah honestly never caught a break. From her teenage years straight into adulthood, she was dealt the worst hand and forced into situations she never asked for....while everyone around her somehow missed the pain she was living with every single day. After spending ten years behind bars, all she wants now is a quiet life, to find her sisters, and to finally build the family she never had the chance to have.
Her aunt and uncle were the only steady support she had, and the way they showed up for her? That part really touched me. They were determined to make sure she knew she wasn’t alone anymore that she mattered and that she deserved peace.
And then there’s Killian. He knew Alayah back when they were teenagers and had always cared for her, even if he didn’t fully understand what she was going through at the time. He carried guilt for not seeing the signs back then, and when he’s asked to help with her case years later? He sees it as a second chance, not just to help her legally, but to finally be there for her in the way he couldn’t before.
This story was packed with pain, healing, love, friendship, struggle, and some hard truths. Alayah had been fighting for so long that even she wasn’t sure if she’d ever really escape the darkness that followed her. Watching her slowly find light again was emotional, exhausting, and beautiful all at once.
It wasn’t an easy read… but it was absolutely worth it.
Alayah honestly never caught a break. From her teenage years straight into adulthood, she was dealt the worst hand and forced into situations she never asked for....while everyone around her somehow missed the pain she was living with every single day. After spending ten years behind bars, all she wants now is a quiet life, to find her sisters, and to finally build the family she never had the chance to have.
Her aunt and uncle were the only steady support she had, and the way they showed up for her? That part really touched me. They were determined to make sure she knew she wasn’t alone anymore that she mattered and that she deserved peace.
And then there’s Killian. He knew Alayah back when they were teenagers and had always cared for her, even if he didn’t fully understand what she was going through at the time. He carried guilt for not seeing the signs back then, and when he’s asked to help with her case years later? He sees it as a second chance, not just to help her legally, but to finally be there for her in the way he couldn’t before.
This story was packed with pain, healing, love, friendship, struggle, and some hard truths. Alayah had been fighting for so long that even she wasn’t sure if she’d ever really escape the darkness that followed her. Watching her slowly find light again was emotional, exhausting, and beautiful all at once.
It wasn’t an easy read… but it was absolutely worth it.
December 21, 2025
This was such a beautifully written story of redemption that at times took my breath away because of the depth of emotion you could feel on these pages. Alayah was dealt a very crappy hand in life and it cost her innocence & 10yrs of freedom. I loved watching her journey as she navigated her new life on the outside & learning to trust others and build/heal relationships. Killian. Killian. Killian. The boy who had a soft spot for her as a child grew to be the steadfast love that she needed as a woman. He was consistent, gentle, patient, kind, and understanding. Their love just felt healing, and the way he handled her…it was everything. I also deeply enjoyed the other relationships in the book. Londyn. Her sisters. Her aunt & uncle. Killian’s family. Even her attorney and her friend from jail. Each played a major part in Alayah’s healing & her journey to womanhood.
Also there isn’t a hell hot enough for Rodney or Kennedy. Both only got a PORTION of what they deserved😤
Also there isn’t a hell hot enough for Rodney or Kennedy. Both only got a PORTION of what they deserved😤
January 16, 2026
Where Secrets Find Solace is a deeply emotional story about trauma, healing, and the power of family support. This book doesn’t shy away from hard topics—it really shows what it’s like to survive painful experiences and still try to build a life afterward.
What stood out to me most was how much this story focuses on healing. It isn’t just about what happened in the past, but about learning how to live with it, how to grow, and how to accept love and support. The way family plays a role in that healing made the story feel even more real and touching.
This was honestly a really good book. It was heavy, but meaningful, and it stayed with me after I finished. That said, I definitely recommend checking the trigger warnings before reading, because it covers some very intense and sensitive topics.
Overall, this is a powerful and emotional read that I’m glad I picked up.
What stood out to me most was how much this story focuses on healing. It isn’t just about what happened in the past, but about learning how to live with it, how to grow, and how to accept love and support. The way family plays a role in that healing made the story feel even more real and touching.
This was honestly a really good book. It was heavy, but meaningful, and it stayed with me after I finished. That said, I definitely recommend checking the trigger warnings before reading, because it covers some very intense and sensitive topics.
Overall, this is a powerful and emotional read that I’m glad I picked up.
January 3, 2026
Whew the secrets...
First full read of the year and it was heavy, but it was sooo good. Please, please, please read the cw before reading because what's happening here is unthinkable, but the care I believe Ms. Brown took in writing some very sensitive and triggering topics did not go unnoticed. Layah suffered through so much, but watching her overcome and get REAL justice was the goodness. Killian, now that's a man! That man loved that girl before she could comprehend what love really was. He went to the highest heights for her and her family. I told my daughter, for such a heavy book, I couldn't stop reading! Happy Reading Y’all!💋
First full read of the year and it was heavy, but it was sooo good. Please, please, please read the cw before reading because what's happening here is unthinkable, but the care I believe Ms. Brown took in writing some very sensitive and triggering topics did not go unnoticed. Layah suffered through so much, but watching her overcome and get REAL justice was the goodness. Killian, now that's a man! That man loved that girl before she could comprehend what love really was. He went to the highest heights for her and her family. I told my daughter, for such a heavy book, I couldn't stop reading! Happy Reading Y’all!💋
December 18, 2025
Solace In Deed !
Kimberly came back guys with this heart warming but sad and inspiring romance book. Overcoming the wrongs of what others have done to you and injustice. My heart aches for sweet Alayah on her journey to freedom and happiness. This book will have you in your feelings for sure but it’s worth it. Killian was her match a praying man of goodness. Their love so pure and cute. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and outcome of prevailing. Thank you Kimberly for sharing your craft !
Kimberly came back guys with this heart warming but sad and inspiring romance book. Overcoming the wrongs of what others have done to you and injustice. My heart aches for sweet Alayah on her journey to freedom and happiness. This book will have you in your feelings for sure but it’s worth it. Killian was her match a praying man of goodness. Their love so pure and cute. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and outcome of prevailing. Thank you Kimberly for sharing your craft !
December 21, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia for the audio advance copy of Where Secrets Find Solace by Kimberly Brown. This story is heavy, emotional, and quietly powerful in a way that sits with you long after it ends. The audio format elevated the experience. Hearing Alayah’s pain, strength, and resolve made her story hit deeper, especially during moments where silence said more than words. This is a story about survival, justice, and choosing yourself even when forgiveness feels out of reach. Emotional, reflective, and honest, it’s the kind of book that asks you to sit with discomfort and really listen.
January 11, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½
Where Secrets Find Solace is an emotional, character-driven story about survival, healing, and second chances. Alayah’s journey from trauma to reclaiming her life is raw, heartbreaking, and ultimately hopeful. The romance is tender and slow-burning, adding warmth without overshadowing her growth.
This one will sit with you long after the last page. Heavy subject matter, but beautifully handled.
Where Secrets Find Solace is an emotional, character-driven story about survival, healing, and second chances. Alayah’s journey from trauma to reclaiming her life is raw, heartbreaking, and ultimately hopeful. The romance is tender and slow-burning, adding warmth without overshadowing her growth.
This one will sit with you long after the last page. Heavy subject matter, but beautifully handled.
December 24, 2025
This book shattered me in the best way. Every chapter carried weight, every emotion hit deeply, and the pacing gave the story room to breathe while still pulling me forward. I felt everything while reading this — joy, heartbreak, hope, and loss. These characters and their story will stay with me for a long time. Without question, this is one of my top reads of the year.
December 23, 2025
An emotionally charged & triggering read. After being dealt such a bad hand, seeing Alayah finally get the happy ending & justice she deserved made the journey worth it. Killian was God sent. I enjoyed the story, however some of the irony felt a bit unrealistic at times.
January 3, 2026
My God this story is so heartbreakingly beautiful. It’s first and foremost a story of healing and overcoming and a love story underneath all that.
I couldn’t put it down because I needed to know what was next. So many failures, so much realism.
I couldn’t put it down because I needed to know what was next. So many failures, so much realism.
December 21, 2025
4.5 rounded up
January 5, 2026
this was sooo good !
January 10, 2026
***** Check trigger warnings ⚠️
3.5🌟 the trauma between these pages 😭😭😭
3.5🌟 the trauma between these pages 😭😭😭
January 12, 2026
This was one of those reads that made me pause, sit with my thoughts, and feel everything. Where Secrets Find Solace is soft, painful, and necessary. Definitely not a skim read. A feel it in your chest read.
January 11, 2026
An absolute emotional roller coaster.
And I knew that bihh knew… hated her ahh from the opening of the book.
The way her community rallied behind her because they all knew that girl didn’t deserve the fate she got was so heartwarming.
And I knew that bihh knew… hated her ahh from the opening of the book.
The way her community rallied behind her because they all knew that girl didn’t deserve the fate she got was so heartwarming.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2026
They're not touching your pen Kimberly!! Phenomenal work as always. Alayah and Killian have my absolute heart.🥹
January 2, 2026
Let me just say this was a 5 star for me other than the dark romance parts. I am not a fan of listening to it...I feel like I am listening to porn and just cringe kjhdfkjsdhfkjs. That being said, there weren't too many parts like that and it's more of an undertone than an aspect of the story...and we do know that the narrators are more known for a spicy genre. Either way, they still did a phenomenal performance.
This book had all the feels. There are details that are hard to hear but necessary, which we can already be concluded prior to going into it based off of the description.
Thank you to NetGalley and publishers for my free copy.
This book had all the feels. There are details that are hard to hear but necessary, which we can already be concluded prior to going into it based off of the description.
Thank you to NetGalley and publishers for my free copy.
January 2, 2026
This was only a snippet but I was immediately pulled and now I cannot wait for the release date. Im interested on seeing Alayah to become paroled, reconnecting with her family and friend Killian. I'm hoping this book will live up to the hype of what I have in my head so far, it will be interesting to see how Alayah navigates life out of prison and rediscovering herself and possibly a love interest. So this review and rating is temporary. Thank you to NetGalley and Black Odyseey Media for this snippet.
Updated as of 12/14 5⭐️
Alayah and Killian
This was an anticipated read from me since I was able to read the sample so this is a full review.
This story follows Alayah Chambers upon her release from a 10 year incarceration after unaliving a man that sexually abused her. She is trying to find her place and regain connection with her sisters. She also reconnects with Killian, a childhood friend, he was such a sweet heart and comes to be very important to her. Her mother was pure trash and the things she learned about her mother delicately heartbreaking and will make you angry, omg. She had a strong family dynamic from her aunt/uncle, Killian and her lawyer was a boss. This is a strong emotional story and you will want to pay attention to the trigger warnings. This story deals with themes of mental health, overcoming trauma and some romance.
Narrators
Morris Kellswater and Charlie L Wood were perfect for this narration. Charlie Wood really did play her part for Alayah. The emotional parts had me in my feelings and made me able to connect to some of the hard stuff, loved that.
This was an anticipated read from me since I was able to read the sample so this is a full review. Thank you NetGalley and RB Media for the ARC.
Updated as of 12/14 5⭐️
Alayah and Killian
This was an anticipated read from me since I was able to read the sample so this is a full review.
This story follows Alayah Chambers upon her release from a 10 year incarceration after unaliving a man that sexually abused her. She is trying to find her place and regain connection with her sisters. She also reconnects with Killian, a childhood friend, he was such a sweet heart and comes to be very important to her. Her mother was pure trash and the things she learned about her mother delicately heartbreaking and will make you angry, omg. She had a strong family dynamic from her aunt/uncle, Killian and her lawyer was a boss. This is a strong emotional story and you will want to pay attention to the trigger warnings. This story deals with themes of mental health, overcoming trauma and some romance.
Narrators
Morris Kellswater and Charlie L Wood were perfect for this narration. Charlie Wood really did play her part for Alayah. The emotional parts had me in my feelings and made me able to connect to some of the hard stuff, loved that.
This was an anticipated read from me since I was able to read the sample so this is a full review. Thank you NetGalley and RB Media for the ARC.
December 18, 2025
Trigger Warning: This book discusses sexual assault/sexual abuse, childhood trauma, prison, and murder.
I’m really glad I received this audiobook and was able to listen while also reading along because the narration for Where Secrets Find Solace is tight, professional, and well aligned with the text. There were no mispronunciations or awkward pacing, and everything felt accurate to the book, which is something I always pay close attention to when reviewing audiobooks. Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia Recorded Books for this ALC.
Morris Kellswater does an excellent job narrating Killian. He fully embodies him as a compassionate MMC who is both gentle and justice driven, and he does a great job differentiating between characters when multiple people are speaking in the same scene. One thing I’m always critical of in audiobooks is whether narrators change their voices not only for their assigned POVs but also when voicing side characters within those chapters, and Morris does this really well. Charlie L. Wood does a strong job narrating Alayah, especially during the more emotional moments, which really heightened the listening experience. You can hear Alayah’s pain, guardedness, and vulnerability in her voice. While I did enjoy her portrayal of Alayah, I would have loved a bit more variation when she was voicing other characters in her chapters. Even so, this was still a solid and engaging performance.
I listened to this audiobook at 1.75x speed, which for me is my sweet spot. I want audiobooks to sound natural, not rushed and not too slow, because either extreme will disengage me. Every narrator has a different cadence and tone, and with dual narration sometimes one speed doesn’t work equally for both narrators. For this audiobook, keeping both narrators at 1.75x kept me engaged while maintaining a realistic speaking pace.
Because of that, I’m giving the audiobook narration four stars. As for the story itself, this is easily a five star read for me.
When I first read the sneak peek for Where Secrets Find Solace, it pulled me all the way in and I knew immediately this was going to be a heavy but necessary read. The story centers around Alayah, who is serving a 30 year sentence for killing her mom’s boyfriend, a man who had been sexually assaulting her since she was 14. As the oldest daughter, she carried the responsibility of looking after her siblings while her mom worked constantly. From early on, it was clear that her mom was rude, neglectful, and downright cruel, and it was incredibly frustrating to read how she continuously put her daughters in that situation.
This is a powerful, emotionally layered women’s fiction novel that does not shy away from trauma, accountability, or the long road to healing. Alayah’s journey isn’t just about getting out of prison but about what freedom actually looks like when the past still has a grip on you. When Alayah is paroled, she’s trying to rebuild her life, keep her head down, and acclimate to being free. At the same time, both her lawyer and Killian know there were serious things wrong with her case and are actively working to uncover proof so it can be overturned. Even though Alayah is no longer incarcerated, they want her to have justice alongside her freedom.
I really appreciated the use of flashbacks to the past, which were very emotional. Seeing Alayah and Killian when they were younger added depth and context to who they are in the present and made the emotional beats hit even harder.
I also loved the intentionality behind Kimberly Brown including resources in her dedication for readers who may be experiencing similar situations. The title Where Secrets Find Solace really stayed with me, especially after reading the dedication where the author writes, for anyone who has been told, ‘What happens in this house stays in this house.’” That line perfectly embodies this story.
Rodney, Alayah’s abuser, forced her to keep the secret of her abuse while threatening her younger sisters, and her mother repeatedly turned a blind eye and refused to believe her. Alayah felt like she couldn’t tell anyone what was happening, and that burden ultimately pushed her to the edge. You really see how she finds solace in Killian when she has nowhere else to put that pain. I’m glad she ultimately gets her happy ending and that everyone else gets exactly what they deserved. While we do get some insight into why her mom was the way she was, it still doesn’t fully make sense, but sometimes when people are that harmful, it never will.
While this book isn’t categorized as a romance, it still has strong romantic elements that add heart to Alayah’s story of redemption as she rediscovers who she is now as a woman. Alayah and Killian were friends in high school, and he always had a crush on her, so we get elements of a second chance romance and a friends to lovers dynamic. I also appreciated how this story shows the journey someone goes on after experiencing sexual trauma, learning how to rediscover themselves, allow themselves to be loved, and explore their sexual identity outside of trauma.
One character I absolutely loved was London. She was funny, unapologetically herself, and refused to let up on Alayah until she let her become her friend. She brought much needed lightness to the story and really highlighted the importance of chosen family and support. Also shout out to the aunt and and uncle as well as Killian’s family and friends. And a couple other people I won’t spoil.
And while I could go on and on about the pure evilness that is Mrs. West, Kennedy, and Rodney, just know that these people will piss you clean off. This is an emotional read, and there is plenty of drama that will absolutely have your blood pressure up at times.
A quote that really stood out to me and embodied Alayah’s journey in terms of her sexual identity was, “I loved that she was discovering her sexual desires after years of abuse. Some people were never the same after that.”
While there are open door scenes and I’m never mad at that, the intimacy here felt purposeful rather than just spicy for the sake of being spicy. Especially given the subject matter, those moments came across as intentional check ins rooted in consent, communication, and care, which added depth to Alayah’s journey instead of distracting from it.
Another quote that captured that perfectly was, “A man who talks you through it takes cues from your body. They listen and pay attention. Sex with them isn’t just for their pleasure. It’s for yours too. Whatever negative headspace you find yourself in, he’ll bring you out of it. You just have to trust him.”
Overall, Kimberly Brown did an amazing job with this story, and I would absolutely love to see Where Secrets Find Solace adapted into a film. I could easily see this as a Lifetime movie or a Netflix original. The story is absolutely there!
I’m really glad I received this audiobook and was able to listen while also reading along because the narration for Where Secrets Find Solace is tight, professional, and well aligned with the text. There were no mispronunciations or awkward pacing, and everything felt accurate to the book, which is something I always pay close attention to when reviewing audiobooks. Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia Recorded Books for this ALC.
Morris Kellswater does an excellent job narrating Killian. He fully embodies him as a compassionate MMC who is both gentle and justice driven, and he does a great job differentiating between characters when multiple people are speaking in the same scene. One thing I’m always critical of in audiobooks is whether narrators change their voices not only for their assigned POVs but also when voicing side characters within those chapters, and Morris does this really well. Charlie L. Wood does a strong job narrating Alayah, especially during the more emotional moments, which really heightened the listening experience. You can hear Alayah’s pain, guardedness, and vulnerability in her voice. While I did enjoy her portrayal of Alayah, I would have loved a bit more variation when she was voicing other characters in her chapters. Even so, this was still a solid and engaging performance.
I listened to this audiobook at 1.75x speed, which for me is my sweet spot. I want audiobooks to sound natural, not rushed and not too slow, because either extreme will disengage me. Every narrator has a different cadence and tone, and with dual narration sometimes one speed doesn’t work equally for both narrators. For this audiobook, keeping both narrators at 1.75x kept me engaged while maintaining a realistic speaking pace.
Because of that, I’m giving the audiobook narration four stars. As for the story itself, this is easily a five star read for me.
When I first read the sneak peek for Where Secrets Find Solace, it pulled me all the way in and I knew immediately this was going to be a heavy but necessary read. The story centers around Alayah, who is serving a 30 year sentence for killing her mom’s boyfriend, a man who had been sexually assaulting her since she was 14. As the oldest daughter, she carried the responsibility of looking after her siblings while her mom worked constantly. From early on, it was clear that her mom was rude, neglectful, and downright cruel, and it was incredibly frustrating to read how she continuously put her daughters in that situation.
This is a powerful, emotionally layered women’s fiction novel that does not shy away from trauma, accountability, or the long road to healing. Alayah’s journey isn’t just about getting out of prison but about what freedom actually looks like when the past still has a grip on you. When Alayah is paroled, she’s trying to rebuild her life, keep her head down, and acclimate to being free. At the same time, both her lawyer and Killian know there were serious things wrong with her case and are actively working to uncover proof so it can be overturned. Even though Alayah is no longer incarcerated, they want her to have justice alongside her freedom.
I really appreciated the use of flashbacks to the past, which were very emotional. Seeing Alayah and Killian when they were younger added depth and context to who they are in the present and made the emotional beats hit even harder.
I also loved the intentionality behind Kimberly Brown including resources in her dedication for readers who may be experiencing similar situations. The title Where Secrets Find Solace really stayed with me, especially after reading the dedication where the author writes, for anyone who has been told, ‘What happens in this house stays in this house.’” That line perfectly embodies this story.
Rodney, Alayah’s abuser, forced her to keep the secret of her abuse while threatening her younger sisters, and her mother repeatedly turned a blind eye and refused to believe her. Alayah felt like she couldn’t tell anyone what was happening, and that burden ultimately pushed her to the edge. You really see how she finds solace in Killian when she has nowhere else to put that pain. I’m glad she ultimately gets her happy ending and that everyone else gets exactly what they deserved. While we do get some insight into why her mom was the way she was, it still doesn’t fully make sense, but sometimes when people are that harmful, it never will.
While this book isn’t categorized as a romance, it still has strong romantic elements that add heart to Alayah’s story of redemption as she rediscovers who she is now as a woman. Alayah and Killian were friends in high school, and he always had a crush on her, so we get elements of a second chance romance and a friends to lovers dynamic. I also appreciated how this story shows the journey someone goes on after experiencing sexual trauma, learning how to rediscover themselves, allow themselves to be loved, and explore their sexual identity outside of trauma.
One character I absolutely loved was London. She was funny, unapologetically herself, and refused to let up on Alayah until she let her become her friend. She brought much needed lightness to the story and really highlighted the importance of chosen family and support. Also shout out to the aunt and and uncle as well as Killian’s family and friends. And a couple other people I won’t spoil.
And while I could go on and on about the pure evilness that is Mrs. West, Kennedy, and Rodney, just know that these people will piss you clean off. This is an emotional read, and there is plenty of drama that will absolutely have your blood pressure up at times.
A quote that really stood out to me and embodied Alayah’s journey in terms of her sexual identity was, “I loved that she was discovering her sexual desires after years of abuse. Some people were never the same after that.”
While there are open door scenes and I’m never mad at that, the intimacy here felt purposeful rather than just spicy for the sake of being spicy. Especially given the subject matter, those moments came across as intentional check ins rooted in consent, communication, and care, which added depth to Alayah’s journey instead of distracting from it.
Another quote that captured that perfectly was, “A man who talks you through it takes cues from your body. They listen and pay attention. Sex with them isn’t just for their pleasure. It’s for yours too. Whatever negative headspace you find yourself in, he’ll bring you out of it. You just have to trust him.”
Overall, Kimberly Brown did an amazing job with this story, and I would absolutely love to see Where Secrets Find Solace adapted into a film. I could easily see this as a Lifetime movie or a Netflix original. The story is absolutely there!
December 17, 2025
Decent read. Thanks for the TW’s.
Kimberly had me cheering like I was in court right alongside Alayah. This story was heavy, emotional, and powerful, especially knowing Alayah lost ten years of her life for defending herself against Rodney. Honestly, more than ten years, considering what she endured before the arrest. Watching two people, approximately the same age, Alayah and Killian, come from completely different life paths and eventually find love together was beautiful, but also heartbreaking because of what she was robbed of.
Alayah was a strong FMC, and I rooted for her the entire time. Her anger, fear, and concern about how the public viewed her made sense, even when she was a little dramatic at times. She carried a lot of trauma. I was especially interested in her reconnecting with her sisters, Amiyah and Adrienne. That bond mattered more to me than the romance at times, especially because of the damage Kennedy caused. Seeing the sisters slowly rebuild trust and love was one of the strongest parts of the book.
Killian was solid. A good man, a protector, and his relationship with his niece Ellie melted my heart. I’ve realized I love reading about men and their interactions with kids, especially uncles. Ellie was a standout, and she added warmth to the story without overpowering it. I just wish we had gotten more of Killian and Alayah before everything fell apart. We know they were childhood best friends and high school sweethearts, but we didn’t get to experience that connection fully. We met them as adults and relied on flashbacks, which made their bond feel rushed compared to Kimberly’s usual slow burns.
Londyn deserves her flowers. She was an amazing friend in such a short amount of time, loyal and unapologetic. Uncle Clive and Aunt Penny were everything. They provided the family love Alayah deserved and stood firmly in her corner. Honorable mention to Ellie again, because she was just that precious.
Now about dead ass Kennedy and dead ass Rodney. Rodney got exactly what he deserved, and I loved that for him. Kennedy, however, is where I still have questions. Her hatred toward Alayah didn’t fully make sense to me, especially once it was revealed she withheld vital evidence. Those tapes of Rodney raping Alayah at seventeen changed everything. There’s no way Kennedy didn’t know something was wrong, and the story made it clear she had secrets. I just wish we understood her motives better, especially since she never stepped forward even while that man was rotting. The fate of Kennedy and Rodney was satisfying, though.
My biggest issue is pacing and development. Like I said before, this felt fast compared to Kimberly’s usual slow, layered storytelling. What was missing for me was experience. We were told Alayah was like a mother to her sisters, but we didn’t see it. We were told she and Killian were deeply connected, but we didn’t live in those moments with them. A prologue showing her life before everything snapped, her bond with her sisters when they were younger, or even a scene of her and Killian during their high school years would have made those relationships hit harder.
Overall, this was still a strong story with powerful themes, great characters, and emotional depth. I just wanted more pages, more buildup, and more time to sit in those relationships. Maybe that’s because I didn’t want it to end, or maybe because I’m used to Kimberly giving us 350 to 400 pages of slow burn magic. Either way, this was a solid read, and Alayah’s journey was worth it.
Kimberly had me cheering like I was in court right alongside Alayah. This story was heavy, emotional, and powerful, especially knowing Alayah lost ten years of her life for defending herself against Rodney. Honestly, more than ten years, considering what she endured before the arrest. Watching two people, approximately the same age, Alayah and Killian, come from completely different life paths and eventually find love together was beautiful, but also heartbreaking because of what she was robbed of.
Alayah was a strong FMC, and I rooted for her the entire time. Her anger, fear, and concern about how the public viewed her made sense, even when she was a little dramatic at times. She carried a lot of trauma. I was especially interested in her reconnecting with her sisters, Amiyah and Adrienne. That bond mattered more to me than the romance at times, especially because of the damage Kennedy caused. Seeing the sisters slowly rebuild trust and love was one of the strongest parts of the book.
Killian was solid. A good man, a protector, and his relationship with his niece Ellie melted my heart. I’ve realized I love reading about men and their interactions with kids, especially uncles. Ellie was a standout, and she added warmth to the story without overpowering it. I just wish we had gotten more of Killian and Alayah before everything fell apart. We know they were childhood best friends and high school sweethearts, but we didn’t get to experience that connection fully. We met them as adults and relied on flashbacks, which made their bond feel rushed compared to Kimberly’s usual slow burns.
Londyn deserves her flowers. She was an amazing friend in such a short amount of time, loyal and unapologetic. Uncle Clive and Aunt Penny were everything. They provided the family love Alayah deserved and stood firmly in her corner. Honorable mention to Ellie again, because she was just that precious.
Now about dead ass Kennedy and dead ass Rodney. Rodney got exactly what he deserved, and I loved that for him. Kennedy, however, is where I still have questions. Her hatred toward Alayah didn’t fully make sense to me, especially once it was revealed she withheld vital evidence. Those tapes of Rodney raping Alayah at seventeen changed everything. There’s no way Kennedy didn’t know something was wrong, and the story made it clear she had secrets. I just wish we understood her motives better, especially since she never stepped forward even while that man was rotting. The fate of Kennedy and Rodney was satisfying, though.
My biggest issue is pacing and development. Like I said before, this felt fast compared to Kimberly’s usual slow, layered storytelling. What was missing for me was experience. We were told Alayah was like a mother to her sisters, but we didn’t see it. We were told she and Killian were deeply connected, but we didn’t live in those moments with them. A prologue showing her life before everything snapped, her bond with her sisters when they were younger, or even a scene of her and Killian during their high school years would have made those relationships hit harder.
Overall, this was still a strong story with powerful themes, great characters, and emotional depth. I just wanted more pages, more buildup, and more time to sit in those relationships. Maybe that’s because I didn’t want it to end, or maybe because I’m used to Kimberly giving us 350 to 400 pages of slow burn magic. Either way, this was a solid read, and Alayah’s journey was worth it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 21, 2025
Narration: 👩🏾🍳💋🥹
Where Secrets Find Solace is not gentle. It is intentional. It sits you down and forces you to witness pain, survival, and the slow work of becoming whole after being shattered. Alayah’s journey wrecked me in ways I didn’t expect. I wasn’t just sad for her...I felt protective, angry, and hollowed out right alongside her. Some chapters had me pausing just to breathe.
And her mother? Whew. I had to unclench my jaw multiple times. Not every person who gives life is capable of nurturing it, and this story doesn’t sugarcoat that truth. Watching that neglect and cruelty unfold was infuriating, but it also made Alayah’s resilience feel earned, not romanticized.
Now… Killian. That man is solid in a way that feels rare. No flashy heroics. No savior complex. Just consistency, patience, and presence. He shows up with calm hands and steady love, and somehow that made him even more powerful. The kind of man who doesn’t rush healing, doesn’t demand access, and doesn’t disappear when things get heavy. I loved him badly. 😮💨
What elevated this story even further was how it exposed the uglier systems surrounding personal trauma...greed, silence, corruption, and power abused behind closed doors. That layer added frustration, yes, but also depth. Pain here isn’t isolated; it’s structural, and that realism matters.
Still, in the middle of all that darkness, the sense of community and chosen family shined. The protection, the rallying, the way people circled Alayah when she couldn’t stand alone...that contrast was beautiful. Love wasn’t loud, but it was present.
Now let me tell y'all about my audiobook experience.
Morris Kellswater and Charlie L. Wood delivered performances that felt lived-in and emotionally precise. You could hear the exhaustion in Alayah’s silence and the quiet strength in Killian’s steadiness. Their narration didn’t just tell the story, it carried it. There were moments I had to pause because the delivery made my chest tight in the best, most intentional way.
This is a heavy read, no doubt! Please check trigger warnings...but it’s also deeply compassionate. Healing isn’t rushed. Closure doesn’t always come wrapped in apologies. Sometimes peace looks like choosing yourself and building joy anyway.
I finished this book emotionally spent but hopeful, which is a hard balance to strike. Kimberly Brown wrote this with care, courage, and soul...and it shows on every page and in every spoken word.
Thank you NetGalley for the ALC. Thank you Kimberly Brown for this story.
This wasn’t just a listen, it was an experience.
Where Secrets Find Solace is not gentle. It is intentional. It sits you down and forces you to witness pain, survival, and the slow work of becoming whole after being shattered. Alayah’s journey wrecked me in ways I didn’t expect. I wasn’t just sad for her...I felt protective, angry, and hollowed out right alongside her. Some chapters had me pausing just to breathe.
And her mother? Whew. I had to unclench my jaw multiple times. Not every person who gives life is capable of nurturing it, and this story doesn’t sugarcoat that truth. Watching that neglect and cruelty unfold was infuriating, but it also made Alayah’s resilience feel earned, not romanticized.
Now… Killian. That man is solid in a way that feels rare. No flashy heroics. No savior complex. Just consistency, patience, and presence. He shows up with calm hands and steady love, and somehow that made him even more powerful. The kind of man who doesn’t rush healing, doesn’t demand access, and doesn’t disappear when things get heavy. I loved him badly. 😮💨
What elevated this story even further was how it exposed the uglier systems surrounding personal trauma...greed, silence, corruption, and power abused behind closed doors. That layer added frustration, yes, but also depth. Pain here isn’t isolated; it’s structural, and that realism matters.
Still, in the middle of all that darkness, the sense of community and chosen family shined. The protection, the rallying, the way people circled Alayah when she couldn’t stand alone...that contrast was beautiful. Love wasn’t loud, but it was present.
Now let me tell y'all about my audiobook experience.
Morris Kellswater and Charlie L. Wood delivered performances that felt lived-in and emotionally precise. You could hear the exhaustion in Alayah’s silence and the quiet strength in Killian’s steadiness. Their narration didn’t just tell the story, it carried it. There were moments I had to pause because the delivery made my chest tight in the best, most intentional way.
This is a heavy read, no doubt! Please check trigger warnings...but it’s also deeply compassionate. Healing isn’t rushed. Closure doesn’t always come wrapped in apologies. Sometimes peace looks like choosing yourself and building joy anyway.
I finished this book emotionally spent but hopeful, which is a hard balance to strike. Kimberly Brown wrote this with care, courage, and soul...and it shows on every page and in every spoken word.
Thank you NetGalley for the ALC. Thank you Kimberly Brown for this story.
This wasn’t just a listen, it was an experience.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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