What do you think?
Rate this book
Hidden & Held: A Betrayal and Redemption Romance
He helped her believe in forever. Then he used her trust against her.
Phoenix Lane has spent her life proving she can handle everything alone. She's built a career on hard work, long hours, and never letting anyone see her struggle.
Then Jackson came along. With coffee, badly executed home renovations, and a stubborn determination to take care of her, he became the one person Phoenix trusted enough to lean on.
Until she discovered why he really came to Cascadia.
Jackson had a job to assess Phoenix's firm for a potential acquisition. Falling in love with her was never part of the plan. Neither was watching his choices cost her the career she'd fought to build.
Now Phoenix is suspended, a vulnerable client is in danger, and she's determined to rebuild without the man who helped tear everything apart.
Jackson knows loving her doesn't erase what he did. If he wants a second chance, he'll have to prove he's worthy of one—even if Phoenix never gives it to him.
Can the one man who taught Phoenix she didn't have to carry everything alone convince her it's safe to trust him again?
Phoenix Lane has spent her life proving she can handle everything alone. She's built a career on hard work, long hours, and never letting anyone see her struggle.
Then Jackson came along. With coffee, badly executed home renovations, and a stubborn determination to take care of her, he became the one person Phoenix trusted enough to lean on.
Until she discovered why he really came to Cascadia.
Jackson had a job to assess Phoenix's firm for a potential acquisition. Falling in love with her was never part of the plan. Neither was watching his choices cost her the career she'd fought to build.
Now Phoenix is suspended, a vulnerable client is in danger, and she's determined to rebuild without the man who helped tear everything apart.
Jackson knows loving her doesn't erase what he did. If he wants a second chance, he'll have to prove he's worthy of one—even if Phoenix never gives it to him.
Can the one man who taught Phoenix she didn't have to carry everything alone convince her it's safe to trust him again?
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 21, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
*Secret relationship
*OW drama
*Workplace
*Betrayal
*Grovel
*Forced proximity
*Slow burn
Phoenix is an accomplished family lawyer in a firm working herself almost to exhaustion until Jackson comes and sees her. They start a secret relationship until everything goes wrong and Phoenix is betrayed by the person she least expected. But a new day starts that is more challenging than before and Phoenix has to make decisions.
Phoenix is a determined and career focused layer but deep inside is a woman who seeks to be seen. Due to emotional absence in her childhood she feels broken, almost to the point she runs down herself.
Jackson is a likable personality though I understandably kind of hated when he broke Phoenix's heart. But he redeemed himself placing above his needs Phoenix's well being and desires and that was what won me back.
I really liked their relationship and how it expanded after all revelations. The side characters were also charming and I believe we saw the setup for the next book towards the end. I'm really curious about that.
I received this arc and this is my honest opinion.
*OW drama
*Workplace
*Betrayal
*Grovel
*Forced proximity
*Slow burn
Phoenix is an accomplished family lawyer in a firm working herself almost to exhaustion until Jackson comes and sees her. They start a secret relationship until everything goes wrong and Phoenix is betrayed by the person she least expected. But a new day starts that is more challenging than before and Phoenix has to make decisions.
Phoenix is a determined and career focused layer but deep inside is a woman who seeks to be seen. Due to emotional absence in her childhood she feels broken, almost to the point she runs down herself.
Jackson is a likable personality though I understandably kind of hated when he broke Phoenix's heart. But he redeemed himself placing above his needs Phoenix's well being and desires and that was what won me back.
I really liked their relationship and how it expanded after all revelations. The side characters were also charming and I believe we saw the setup for the next book towards the end. I'm really curious about that.
I received this arc and this is my honest opinion.
October 12, 2026
Did i read the same book as everyone ?
Did everyone and their mother forget that he ruined her career and almost got her fired if she wasn't so smart and quit first?
everyone was acting like the big betrayal was hiding their relationship. DID YOU ALL SKIP THE PART WHERE HE SLEPT WITH HER AND SOLD INTIMATE INFO ABOUT HER WORK AND GOT HER SUSPENDED ?? ON PURPOSE?? HE WORKED WITH OW TO FUCK HER OVER. yet everyone's chummy with him.
bitch if I was phoenix's friend i would break his knee caps yet these bitches act like he simply forgot to say goodmorning one day.
everyone in this book is insane.
In the end everything was blamed on the OW, except the OW wasn't the one who made him screw phoenix while simultaneously screwing her over.
the first book was wack but at least the fmc was decent. but the fmc in this one was an absolute idiot.
Did everyone and their mother forget that he ruined her career and almost got her fired if she wasn't so smart and quit first?
everyone was acting like the big betrayal was hiding their relationship. DID YOU ALL SKIP THE PART WHERE HE SLEPT WITH HER AND SOLD INTIMATE INFO ABOUT HER WORK AND GOT HER SUSPENDED ?? ON PURPOSE?? HE WORKED WITH OW TO FUCK HER OVER. yet everyone's chummy with him.
bitch if I was phoenix's friend i would break his knee caps yet these bitches act like he simply forgot to say goodmorning one day.
everyone in this book is insane.
In the end everything was blamed on the OW, except the OW wasn't the one who made him screw phoenix while simultaneously screwing her over.
the first book was wack but at least the fmc was decent. but the fmc in this one was an absolute idiot.
October 21, 2026
This is the first story I have read by this author and will not be the last. This ended up being a very sweet story. It is a betrayal and grovel story. The story centers around a friend group who each have trouble with love, but support each other through the ups and downs. The first book focused on Becca and her husband. Now it is Phoenix’s turn. Phoenix works in the town of Cascadia, Oregon, for a local law firm. She is excellent at her job, and everyone knows it. She meets a handsome stranger at the local diner and there is an awareness there. She finds out later that he is infiltrating her law firm, as he works for a bigger law firm from Portland and they are looking to acquire it. It doesn’t take long and Jackson and Phoenix are a couple, but on the down low. Phoenix wanted it to be secret for now as she didn’t want there to be talk. That plays right into Jackson’s hands as he is investigating discrepancies in the law firm. There is an evil ow in the mix who despises Phoenix and tries to get in good with Jackson. Jackson shares something with Cassandra the ow that gets Phoenix suspended and arrested. Phoenix’s heart is broken, but she does fight back beautifully. Jackson who truly loves Phoenix is heartbroken as well. So he spends most of the book winning her back. I am leaving out all the ins and outs of the story. There is more to it, Did he betray her? Yes! Did he handle things terribly? Yes! Does he earn a second chance? ABSOLUTELY! Along the way there are supportive friends and people working to get them together. Jackson does so many sweet things to show Phoenix he loves her, but also knows when to give some space(not much though, just enough) He uproots his life and everything he has worked for to have a new life with Phoenix! And despite what he did, he actually has some really great parents. His mom has no issue reaming him out, and then she befriends Phoenix and takes her for herself! The author gave us a very nice epilogue and people who deserved a comeuppance got it. This story ended up being a very uplifting one, and the hero didn’t half arse the redeeming/groveling parts!
October 21, 2026
I really enjoyed the first book so was really excited for this one unfortunately it was very predictable and wasn't anything I haven't read before followed the same old patterns he hurts her and it's not small she loses everything she has work for and he was basically lying to her for months using her but nothing on how to earn her trust (the first book handle this much better) and why were the friends so quick to forgive and help him? The duplex well as soon as Becca mentioned it I rolled my eyes coz I see it coming a mile away... It felt like without any effort everyone was on his side helping him when really no true friend would be they would have asked him to leave.. not start conversations and inviting him to places. So disappointing after the first book worked hard on the redemption this feels like it took short cuts ends up the same old patterns. I didn't feel the proper justified anger from her and not his feelings of remorse... Yes it's written but I didn't FEEL them.
October 21, 2026
I loved this book from start to finish. Phoenix is an amazing character her journey is heartbreaking at time but you are goong to be cheering for her. Jackson - well you are not going to be happy with him for a little while but not to worry it will take a while but you will fall in love with him as well.
With characters you are going to love and a story that will keep you turning the pages, Hidden and Held is a book that is going to stay with you for a good long while.
With characters you are going to love and a story that will keep you turning the pages, Hidden and Held is a book that is going to stay with you for a good long while.
October 22, 2026
I unfortunately could not get into this one, and I really wanted to! It felt like there was a lot of potential but it honestly left me disappointed. Please be prepared for an essay because I had such high expectations and this didn't meet them so I am in my feels. Interpret my reaction as you will - some people will love this, some will hate it, I lean toward the latter.
Some of my issue was the writing style. It reads like the literary equivalent of a Hallmark film, which admittedly is not generally to my taste. But I know plenty of people love them. Personally I wanted to read this story because the premise sounded interesting and I enjoyed the first in the series, despite the style which just isn't for me. But again that is definitely a personal preference.
But ultimately the reason I disliked this is that I wasn't satisfied with the redemption arc. The author took the stance that actions speak louder than words in her attempt to redeem Jackson. Which I normally agree with! In theory everything in this book should work for a great grovel. But it felt completely flat for me. Action without laying the emotional groundwork feels hollow. We spent over half the story without getting any authentic insight or reflection from Jackson on his betrayal. Truly, we don't get any significant conversation about his betrayal or honest apology until the 65% mark. Because of this his little acts of redemption up until that point honestly just pissed me off because I didn't feel he truly understood the impact of his actions or showed any remorse. By the time we got the big reveal of the truth I was completely checked out. All of his POV chapters were action action action without reflection. It was a whole lot of telling us he felt bad without showing us.
Jackson was just too stupid to be believable. He overheard his girlfriend holding a private conversation related to work in her own residence and thought it would be appropriate to include in the report? I'm supposed to believe he thought he was protecting her? I ABSOLUTELY do not buy that he had nooooo idea that his snitching on a private conversation Phoenix had in the report wouldn't come back to bite her. That was absolutely not his call to make and even by the end of the story I didn't feel like he truly got what he did wrong. He only felt bad that it lead to her suspension, not that he shouldn't have done it in the first place.
All of his betrayals were addressed in a single chapter with neat little explanations to absolve him of any wrongdoing. "Oh I put that into the report to protect you. I had no choice but to accept the award when they presented it to me. I couldn't risk your reputation if I ran out of the restaurant after you. My grandfather insisted on Cassandra coming to dinner. I gave her a bottle of the oil without thinking." Each would be believable on their own but having the excuses back to back to back in a single chapter felt lazy and lessened the emotional impact.
It took soooooo long to get to the point when they hashed everything out and we start to get any sort of explanation or remorse from Jackson that I honestly just ended up disengaging from the story emotionally. If I can't relate to and understand a character's motivations then I have no interest in their redemption, which sucks when reading a betrayal and redemption romance. If she had them have that conversation that happened around the 65% mark earlier in the story I don't think I would have developed such disdain for Jackson. Instead, that period of uncertainty just dragged on and on and I got more and more frustrated with his lack of emotional response.
And then there is the forced proximity, which I honestly HATE and didn't expect so that was a letdown. It feels like a cheap crutch to reconciliation. Having him move in next door was bad enough, but having her break her ankle and move into his unit? Come onnnnn. If he displayed any remorse at all I don't think I would have hated it so much. Instead we got a man who smirks and and plays dumb and barges and flirts his way into Phoenix's life despite her explicit wishes of the opposite. There would be moments where she'd say something that would display how much he hurt her and he'd think something like "oh I didn't realize it was that bad". Huh?!? Have you not taken any time to self reflect? No apparently not because there is never any time taken in his inner monologue to truly muse on the impact of his actions.
Which honestly pissed me off because I really enjoyed Phoenix and related to her struggles with burnout and her parents. And Jackson took SO MUCH from her. Her job, her emotional stability, hell that stupid professional award! His carelessness lead to so much turmoil in Phoenix's life yet he was getting up and going a it his day without compunction.
Phoenix wasn't a doormat but I also didn't understand why she was entertaining his attention or flirtation after the betrayal, like sharing her issues with her mom with him or accepting his offers of coffee. Girl, this guy tossed your career under a bus, you need to make your own damn coffee. And having him help her in the bath?! This is why I hate forced proximity because it forces intimacy and trust that isn't developed in the story.
This man had betrayed her both personally and professionally and at that point hadn't given any sort of sincere apology. You expect me to believe she is smiling and laughing with him in the bathroom? Letting him call her sugar? Gardening with him? Why was she confiding so much in him? At some point around the 50% mark there was a shift in the story from her absolutely ignoring him to flirting which was never explained. Yeah there was the forced proximity but it is not addressed in her inner monologue. It didn't make sense for her to be so intimate with him after his betrayal when she had absolutely no faith in him at that point and he hadn't explained himself.
And the kintsugi thing...ugh...it's an overplayed cliche, but again this story is very Hallmark-esque so some people may like it. Same with the whole Proprietress and custom audiobook thing. And the karaoke. I found it awkward and cliche but I know plenty of people will eat it up.
My final frustration is that Jackson faced absolutely no repercussions for his actions either in his personal or professional life after torpedoing Phoenix's career and personal life. Every single character catered to him in his attempt to win Phoenix back over. Her friends (and their boyfriends???) give him what was supposed to be a few stern talking tos but ultimately let him waltz back into her life. All of their joint coworkers and friends give him a smack on the back of the hand and then a wink of encouragement. Hell, even his mother, who you'd hope would hold him to a higher standard, brushes his actions aside. In a single conversation she learns that he betrayed a woman he was involved with at work and then insists he apologize and give her grandchildren. Huh?!? Is there anyone who will hold this man accountable?!? I'm so over reading about men who get to act without impunity.
I had to skim last few chapters of the book because I was just too frustrated. It's hard to enjoy the reconciliation of their relationship when you don't feel like the betrayal was sufficiently addressed and resolved. Like I said, if she had them have the big revealing conversation earlier then I wouldnt have spent so much of the book pissed at Jackson and would have potentially enjoyed the ending.
Normally actions speak louder than words, but this is one of those rare stories where there was too much action and not nearly enough words for a satisfying redemption.
Some of my issue was the writing style. It reads like the literary equivalent of a Hallmark film, which admittedly is not generally to my taste. But I know plenty of people love them. Personally I wanted to read this story because the premise sounded interesting and I enjoyed the first in the series, despite the style which just isn't for me. But again that is definitely a personal preference.
But ultimately the reason I disliked this is that I wasn't satisfied with the redemption arc. The author took the stance that actions speak louder than words in her attempt to redeem Jackson. Which I normally agree with! In theory everything in this book should work for a great grovel. But it felt completely flat for me. Action without laying the emotional groundwork feels hollow. We spent over half the story without getting any authentic insight or reflection from Jackson on his betrayal. Truly, we don't get any significant conversation about his betrayal or honest apology until the 65% mark. Because of this his little acts of redemption up until that point honestly just pissed me off because I didn't feel he truly understood the impact of his actions or showed any remorse. By the time we got the big reveal of the truth I was completely checked out. All of his POV chapters were action action action without reflection. It was a whole lot of telling us he felt bad without showing us.
Jackson was just too stupid to be believable. He overheard his girlfriend holding a private conversation related to work in her own residence and thought it would be appropriate to include in the report? I'm supposed to believe he thought he was protecting her? I ABSOLUTELY do not buy that he had nooooo idea that his snitching on a private conversation Phoenix had in the report wouldn't come back to bite her. That was absolutely not his call to make and even by the end of the story I didn't feel like he truly got what he did wrong. He only felt bad that it lead to her suspension, not that he shouldn't have done it in the first place.
All of his betrayals were addressed in a single chapter with neat little explanations to absolve him of any wrongdoing. "Oh I put that into the report to protect you. I had no choice but to accept the award when they presented it to me. I couldn't risk your reputation if I ran out of the restaurant after you. My grandfather insisted on Cassandra coming to dinner. I gave her a bottle of the oil without thinking." Each would be believable on their own but having the excuses back to back to back in a single chapter felt lazy and lessened the emotional impact.
It took soooooo long to get to the point when they hashed everything out and we start to get any sort of explanation or remorse from Jackson that I honestly just ended up disengaging from the story emotionally. If I can't relate to and understand a character's motivations then I have no interest in their redemption, which sucks when reading a betrayal and redemption romance. If she had them have that conversation that happened around the 65% mark earlier in the story I don't think I would have developed such disdain for Jackson. Instead, that period of uncertainty just dragged on and on and I got more and more frustrated with his lack of emotional response.
And then there is the forced proximity, which I honestly HATE and didn't expect so that was a letdown. It feels like a cheap crutch to reconciliation. Having him move in next door was bad enough, but having her break her ankle and move into his unit? Come onnnnn. If he displayed any remorse at all I don't think I would have hated it so much. Instead we got a man who smirks and and plays dumb and barges and flirts his way into Phoenix's life despite her explicit wishes of the opposite. There would be moments where she'd say something that would display how much he hurt her and he'd think something like "oh I didn't realize it was that bad". Huh?!? Have you not taken any time to self reflect? No apparently not because there is never any time taken in his inner monologue to truly muse on the impact of his actions.
Which honestly pissed me off because I really enjoyed Phoenix and related to her struggles with burnout and her parents. And Jackson took SO MUCH from her. Her job, her emotional stability, hell that stupid professional award! His carelessness lead to so much turmoil in Phoenix's life yet he was getting up and going a it his day without compunction.
Phoenix wasn't a doormat but I also didn't understand why she was entertaining his attention or flirtation after the betrayal, like sharing her issues with her mom with him or accepting his offers of coffee. Girl, this guy tossed your career under a bus, you need to make your own damn coffee. And having him help her in the bath?! This is why I hate forced proximity because it forces intimacy and trust that isn't developed in the story.
This man had betrayed her both personally and professionally and at that point hadn't given any sort of sincere apology. You expect me to believe she is smiling and laughing with him in the bathroom? Letting him call her sugar? Gardening with him? Why was she confiding so much in him? At some point around the 50% mark there was a shift in the story from her absolutely ignoring him to flirting which was never explained. Yeah there was the forced proximity but it is not addressed in her inner monologue. It didn't make sense for her to be so intimate with him after his betrayal when she had absolutely no faith in him at that point and he hadn't explained himself.
And the kintsugi thing...ugh...it's an overplayed cliche, but again this story is very Hallmark-esque so some people may like it. Same with the whole Proprietress and custom audiobook thing. And the karaoke. I found it awkward and cliche but I know plenty of people will eat it up.
My final frustration is that Jackson faced absolutely no repercussions for his actions either in his personal or professional life after torpedoing Phoenix's career and personal life. Every single character catered to him in his attempt to win Phoenix back over. Her friends (and their boyfriends???) give him what was supposed to be a few stern talking tos but ultimately let him waltz back into her life. All of their joint coworkers and friends give him a smack on the back of the hand and then a wink of encouragement. Hell, even his mother, who you'd hope would hold him to a higher standard, brushes his actions aside. In a single conversation she learns that he betrayed a woman he was involved with at work and then insists he apologize and give her grandchildren. Huh?!? Is there anyone who will hold this man accountable?!? I'm so over reading about men who get to act without impunity.
I had to skim last few chapters of the book because I was just too frustrated. It's hard to enjoy the reconciliation of their relationship when you don't feel like the betrayal was sufficiently addressed and resolved. Like I said, if she had them have the big revealing conversation earlier then I wouldnt have spent so much of the book pissed at Jackson and would have potentially enjoyed the ending.
Normally actions speak louder than words, but this is one of those rare stories where there was too much action and not nearly enough words for a satisfying redemption.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Duke and his Proprietress
This is the second offering in the Zentrology series, written by a wonderful author and it is filled with a damaged protagonist, yearning and chemistry and a plot with a twist that keeps you guessing! There are themes of past family drama, other woman, forced proximity, found family, betrayal at work, emotional damage and angst, but it culminates in a hard-won HEA for the two main characters.
Phoenix is a strong and confident lawyer who is at the top of her firm, though her ever-tired headaches and extensive work weeks leave her no time for any relaxation. She has a cadre of girl besties who support her in every way and with the new lawyer at her firm showing his interest in her, things are looking up for her. Until they aren’t … and she wonders if there will ever be any man who looks within and truly sees her.
Jackson joins Cascadia Legal Partners as the head of their new Mergers and Acquisitions department, but is actually on a mission to provide due diligence and information to his grandfather who is hoping to acquire the firm. He starts to fall for Phoenix but knows that any relationship with her could affect the merger, so things are kept on the quiet with her - though they are navigating the circumstances for entirely different reasons. And it is through these secrets that things fall apart for them.
So many events transpired in this tale to create an enthralling plot and we witness the push and pull between the two main characters, hilarious conversations and interactions with the Zentrology girls, betrayals at work and the soulful redemption of the hero. There are negligible typos and an engaging storyline that pulled me in and keep me looking forward to more creative works by a talented writer.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the hours of respite this reading has gifted me and I thank the author for giving me the opportunity to enjoy the arc and provide my voluntary review.
This is the second offering in the Zentrology series, written by a wonderful author and it is filled with a damaged protagonist, yearning and chemistry and a plot with a twist that keeps you guessing! There are themes of past family drama, other woman, forced proximity, found family, betrayal at work, emotional damage and angst, but it culminates in a hard-won HEA for the two main characters.
Phoenix is a strong and confident lawyer who is at the top of her firm, though her ever-tired headaches and extensive work weeks leave her no time for any relaxation. She has a cadre of girl besties who support her in every way and with the new lawyer at her firm showing his interest in her, things are looking up for her. Until they aren’t … and she wonders if there will ever be any man who looks within and truly sees her.
Jackson joins Cascadia Legal Partners as the head of their new Mergers and Acquisitions department, but is actually on a mission to provide due diligence and information to his grandfather who is hoping to acquire the firm. He starts to fall for Phoenix but knows that any relationship with her could affect the merger, so things are kept on the quiet with her - though they are navigating the circumstances for entirely different reasons. And it is through these secrets that things fall apart for them.
So many events transpired in this tale to create an enthralling plot and we witness the push and pull between the two main characters, hilarious conversations and interactions with the Zentrology girls, betrayals at work and the soulful redemption of the hero. There are negligible typos and an engaging storyline that pulled me in and keep me looking forward to more creative works by a talented writer.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the hours of respite this reading has gifted me and I thank the author for giving me the opportunity to enjoy the arc and provide my voluntary review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Zentrology Series: Jackson & Phoenix
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Oh my goodness… Jackson, what were you thinking?!
I was so eager for this to be released, and I am so happy that I was given the opportunity to read early. I had such a hard time putting this book down! Every time my kids interrupted my reading, I was not amused.
I was completely invested in Phoenix and Jackson and needed to know how everything was going to play out.
I absolutely loved Phi. She was strong, knew her worth, had all the receipts, and was not afraid to make people face the consequences of their actions. She was such a satisfying character to root for!
And Jackson… oh, Jackson. I was genuinely surprised by how much I liked him, even while watching him dig himself deeper and deeper into that hole. The man really did not help himself! When the full betrayal finally came to light, I was sitting there shaking my head in one enormous facepalm moment. The emotional fallout was so good, and I loved seeing Phoenix stand her ground.
This story is about so much more than just Jackson and Phi, though. The secondary characters were fantastic, and I loved how much they added to the story. Jackson's mum is amazing, and Becca, Mack, and Nessa being there for Phi no matter what made me love them even more. Even Sam and Jared surprised me with their moments of reason!
But, can we talk about that sneaky little reference to Becca's story? The mention of getting their nails done took me a moment to twig, but when I made the connection, I loved it! I really enjoy these little crossovers and the way the stories weave together.
Now, with Mack and Jared seemingly next in line, I'm already looking for clues. And if I'm reading those hints correctly, we could be in for a particularly juicy story!
Another fantastic addition to the Zentrology series. Emotional, addictive, full of complicated characters, betrayal, and the kind of friendships that make everything better. I cannot wait to see what's coming next!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Oh my goodness… Jackson, what were you thinking?!
I was so eager for this to be released, and I am so happy that I was given the opportunity to read early. I had such a hard time putting this book down! Every time my kids interrupted my reading, I was not amused.
I was completely invested in Phoenix and Jackson and needed to know how everything was going to play out.
I absolutely loved Phi. She was strong, knew her worth, had all the receipts, and was not afraid to make people face the consequences of their actions. She was such a satisfying character to root for!
And Jackson… oh, Jackson. I was genuinely surprised by how much I liked him, even while watching him dig himself deeper and deeper into that hole. The man really did not help himself! When the full betrayal finally came to light, I was sitting there shaking my head in one enormous facepalm moment. The emotional fallout was so good, and I loved seeing Phoenix stand her ground.
This story is about so much more than just Jackson and Phi, though. The secondary characters were fantastic, and I loved how much they added to the story. Jackson's mum is amazing, and Becca, Mack, and Nessa being there for Phi no matter what made me love them even more. Even Sam and Jared surprised me with their moments of reason!
But, can we talk about that sneaky little reference to Becca's story? The mention of getting their nails done took me a moment to twig, but when I made the connection, I loved it! I really enjoy these little crossovers and the way the stories weave together.
Now, with Mack and Jared seemingly next in line, I'm already looking for clues. And if I'm reading those hints correctly, we could be in for a particularly juicy story!
Another fantastic addition to the Zentrology series. Emotional, addictive, full of complicated characters, betrayal, and the kind of friendships that make everything better. I cannot wait to see what's coming next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am absolutely loving this series! I loved Phoenix in Book 1, but having her take centre stage in this story made me love her even more. One of my favourite things about this series is that the betrayal happens early, so you really get to experience the growth, healing, and redemption that follows. Jackson completely won me over. He definitely didn't handle things the way he should have, but once he learned the truth, he worked hard to earn Phoenix's forgiveness. Their journey felt authentic, and I loved watching them both grow along the way. The Zentology girls were amazing in this book, surrounding Phoenix with support and proving that found family can be just as important as blood family. I also loved getting to know the Zentology boys a little better as they stepped in to help Jackson navigate his mistakes. What I loved most was Phoenix's strength. She owns everything that happens, learns from it, and comes out even stronger. She shows that she doesn't need Jackson, she chooses him, and that made their relationship even more special. Jackson had a lot to prove, and I loved the way he showed up for her when it mattered most. I'm completely hooked on this series, and after the breadcrumbs dropped in this book, I already know Book 3 is going to put my heart through the wringer. Thankfully, I trust Eliza to break it and put it back together again! A fantastic redemption romance with two characters who learn so much about themselves and each other. Easily my favourite kind of betrayal story, where the real focus is on growth, forgiveness, and earning a second chance.
October 21, 2026
JACKSON!! Don’t PMO! And I thought Sam was UGH! Jackson definitely takes the cake with this one for meeeee 😩😂
Phoenix and Jackson had me feeling all kinds of ways with this one! (MAINLY JACKSON)
Phoenix finally let someone in, only to find out the man she trusted had been keeping secrets that could wreck both her career and everything she’d worked so hard for, and it seems she’s the one left trying to pick up the pieces until Jackson finally decides to step up and right his wrongs (if you can call it that) … okay okay he just got on my nerves in this one. His nonchalant attitude as if all was good and he did nothing wrong in the beginning is what threw me 😩
Jackson has some serious making up to do, and I wanted to see him prove that his regret was more than just words. I love a story where trust has to be earned back, and forgiveness isn’t handed over just because someone says they’re sorry. This one brings the betrayal, the emotions, and the fight for a second chance. Phoenix has been carrying so much on her own, and seeing her face everything thrown at her makes this an emotional read.
If you love a slow-burn romance with betrayal, a hero who has to grovel, and a hard-earned second chance, this one deserves a spot on your TBR! I cannot wait for the 3rd book! Good job Author 🙌🏽🩷
Phoenix and Jackson had me feeling all kinds of ways with this one! (MAINLY JACKSON)
Phoenix finally let someone in, only to find out the man she trusted had been keeping secrets that could wreck both her career and everything she’d worked so hard for, and it seems she’s the one left trying to pick up the pieces until Jackson finally decides to step up and right his wrongs (if you can call it that) … okay okay he just got on my nerves in this one. His nonchalant attitude as if all was good and he did nothing wrong in the beginning is what threw me 😩
Jackson has some serious making up to do, and I wanted to see him prove that his regret was more than just words. I love a story where trust has to be earned back, and forgiveness isn’t handed over just because someone says they’re sorry. This one brings the betrayal, the emotions, and the fight for a second chance. Phoenix has been carrying so much on her own, and seeing her face everything thrown at her makes this an emotional read.
If you love a slow-burn romance with betrayal, a hero who has to grovel, and a hard-earned second chance, this one deserves a spot on your TBR! I cannot wait for the 3rd book! Good job Author 🙌🏽🩷
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love a betrayal and grovel romance and Eliza has written some of my favourites this year! I absolutely love this series and this one did not disappoint.
The story follows Phoenix, who has worked so hard to build her career and has always been used to doing everything herself. Then Jackson comes along and slowly becomes the person she feels she can finally rely on, only for everything to fall apart when she discovers the real reason he came to Cascadia.
My heart hurt for Phoenix. She had finally let someone in and trusted him only for Jackson to betray her in a way that affected not just their relationship but everything she had worked so hard for.
I really hated what Jackson did and he had a LOT to make up for. I loved that Phoenix didn't just forgive him and that he had to face the consequences of his actions. The grovel was exactly what I wanted!
I also loved seeing all the familiar characters again, love the Zentrology girls. I just love their friendship and the way they support each other.
This was emotional, angsty and full of the betrayal and redemption I love. I'm really looking forward to seeing what comes next in this series!
The story follows Phoenix, who has worked so hard to build her career and has always been used to doing everything herself. Then Jackson comes along and slowly becomes the person she feels she can finally rely on, only for everything to fall apart when she discovers the real reason he came to Cascadia.
My heart hurt for Phoenix. She had finally let someone in and trusted him only for Jackson to betray her in a way that affected not just their relationship but everything she had worked so hard for.
I really hated what Jackson did and he had a LOT to make up for. I loved that Phoenix didn't just forgive him and that he had to face the consequences of his actions. The grovel was exactly what I wanted!
I also loved seeing all the familiar characters again, love the Zentrology girls. I just love their friendship and the way they support each other.
This was emotional, angsty and full of the betrayal and redemption I love. I'm really looking forward to seeing what comes next in this series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the second book I’ve in the Zentrology series. Built and Burned is the first in the series, I suggest you read first, you can get a feel for the main characters, but not mandatory.
Phoenix is your type A, follow the rules and work hard to prove herself. She has the highest billable hours in her firm and keeps pushing for more. She would do anything to help others, especially her Zentrology friends, even though she is not into that woo woo stuff.
She meets Jackson at the diner and then later finds out he’s her new colleague at the firm. He seems very interested in Phi and helping with the renovation of her duplex. He also leaves little gifts on her desk with notes…but they choose to keep their relationship secret.
Well, Jackson is not who he says he is and Phoenix finds out the hard way and realizes trusting others is not in the cards.
There’s a lot going on within the firm that comes to light.
I will have this on my reread list for sure! The side characters are a great perk!
Phoenix is your type A, follow the rules and work hard to prove herself. She has the highest billable hours in her firm and keeps pushing for more. She would do anything to help others, especially her Zentrology friends, even though she is not into that woo woo stuff.
She meets Jackson at the diner and then later finds out he’s her new colleague at the firm. He seems very interested in Phi and helping with the renovation of her duplex. He also leaves little gifts on her desk with notes…but they choose to keep their relationship secret.
Well, Jackson is not who he says he is and Phoenix finds out the hard way and realizes trusting others is not in the cards.
There’s a lot going on within the firm that comes to light.
I will have this on my reread list for sure! The side characters are a great perk!
October 21, 2026
Hidden and Held is one of those books that snuck up on me and it will stay with me for a long time.
Phoenix and Jackson’s story was so much more than a betrayal and redemption story. It’s a poignant reminder of what women have to face to have successful careers. Eliza tackled the emotion of burnout in a way that doesn’t romanticise it and I loved the way it added a further dimension to Phoenix’s feistiness and had you cheering her on. That girl has some sass— the jackass photo was comedic genius!
And talking of sass and comedy, I really want to be part of the Zentrology girls’ friendship group. The found family element gave some hilarious and light moments and I can’t wait for this to continue in Given and Gone.
The jackass— I mean Jackson. He was the kind of the book boyfriend that you shouldn’t love but you know we all do. A delicious hint of morally grey, plenty of stubbornness and completely gone for his girl! I want a Jackson who narrates my favourite books— yeah, this totally had me swooning!
Hidden and Held is one of my favourite reads of 2026— I absolutely loved it!
Phoenix and Jackson’s story was so much more than a betrayal and redemption story. It’s a poignant reminder of what women have to face to have successful careers. Eliza tackled the emotion of burnout in a way that doesn’t romanticise it and I loved the way it added a further dimension to Phoenix’s feistiness and had you cheering her on. That girl has some sass— the jackass photo was comedic genius!
And talking of sass and comedy, I really want to be part of the Zentrology girls’ friendship group. The found family element gave some hilarious and light moments and I can’t wait for this to continue in Given and Gone.
The jackass— I mean Jackson. He was the kind of the book boyfriend that you shouldn’t love but you know we all do. A delicious hint of morally grey, plenty of stubbornness and completely gone for his girl! I want a Jackson who narrates my favourite books— yeah, this totally had me swooning!
Hidden and Held is one of my favourite reads of 2026— I absolutely loved it!
October 22, 2026
I got to enjoy this story as an ARC reader and loved it! Phoenix is a bad ass and so resilient. The emotions and the burn out she was going through were so real and raw. Which made her one of the most relatable characters I have read about. She was betrayed by someone she thought she could trust, and she doesn't trust easily. Shes not the type of woman who is going to just listen to someones words. She needs to see consistent action. And thats what Jackson did before and after the betrayal. He saw her in ways that no one else did. Paid attention to the small details, like knowing when shes about to have a headache at work, making sure she eats, embraces her love for dukes and dutches type of books, when she needed more of her favorite coffee. He even paid attention to the details about her closest friends.
I enjoyed the first book but enjoyed this one more. I SWOONED when he created audiobooks for her 😏
I enjoyed the first book but enjoyed this one more. I SWOONED when he created audiobooks for her 😏
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am loving this zentology series. This is a story of Phoenix and Jackson. Phoenix is a brilliant lawyer. She is hardworking and compassionate. She is one of the best employees in the firm. Jackson fell in love with her almost immediately. But he didn’t make her priority. Instead he put more weightage on his project, his job. He didn’t protect her the way he should have. His betrayal almost ruined her career. He is genuinely remorseful of his actions and consistently showed up for her. His grovel was in the form of actions and not just words. He hard earned forgiveness from her. Their happily ever after was absolutely well deserved. I love her friends and his mother. It is satisfying to see comeuppance for ow Cassandra. I absolutely love love love Phoenix and Jackson’s story. I definitely recommend it.
October 22, 2026
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
This book was a ride. Honestly I wanted to hate Jackson, like I really really want to remain mad at him, but couldn’t. I think the author did an amazing job of writing a flawed character but keeping him likable and realistic. His redemption was well done. I really appreciate how real to life this felt as well. People are messy. Relationships can be messy, work can be messy.
Phoenix - such a relatable character- career focused to the point of exhausted. Been there got the migraine. I love the choice that the author to not make her forgive Jackson quickly. This was a slow burn - she really made him work for the forgiveness.
This book was a ride. Honestly I wanted to hate Jackson, like I really really want to remain mad at him, but couldn’t. I think the author did an amazing job of writing a flawed character but keeping him likable and realistic. His redemption was well done. I really appreciate how real to life this felt as well. People are messy. Relationships can be messy, work can be messy.
Phoenix - such a relatable character- career focused to the point of exhausted. Been there got the migraine. I love the choice that the author to not make her forgive Jackson quickly. This was a slow burn - she really made him work for the forgiveness.
October 21, 2026
I was so excited to receive an ARC of the second book in this great interconnected series.
Eliza has a gift for writing gut punches that come from thoroughly redeemable and ultimately really likable men. Through Jackson messes up enormously, his heart is in the right place and it’s clear he cares for Phoenix so much. I love how many instances we get to see how deeply he sees her throughout the book.
The main couple are perfect for each other and the cast of side characters really round out the book. The zentrology gals are such a pleasure to read about, and I can’t wait to read about Mack’s book next. Highly recommend!
Eliza has a gift for writing gut punches that come from thoroughly redeemable and ultimately really likable men. Through Jackson messes up enormously, his heart is in the right place and it’s clear he cares for Phoenix so much. I love how many instances we get to see how deeply he sees her throughout the book.
The main couple are perfect for each other and the cast of side characters really round out the book. The zentrology gals are such a pleasure to read about, and I can’t wait to read about Mack’s book next. Highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Phoenix is a strong woman but perhaps a bit inflexible in how she lives her life. She meets Jackson and feels she can relax while in his company, unfortunately that works to her detriment. Luckily, she has her girl group, Zentrology, to lift her up, support her, and be there in any what she needs. Though Jackson has feelings for Phoenix, he pushes them aside, doesn't prioritize her, and betrays in the most humiliating way. He has to work hard to earn her forgiveness. Phoenix can stand on her own and proves just that. So, does she forgive Jackson?!? 🤷🏼♀️😉
Review of advance copy received from Author
Okay first of all - Phoenix is so my girl. She stood on her own two feet (well kind of 🤭) and she took no shitake from any man. I honestly did not think I could ever forgive Jackson but he's completely redeemable and damn now I want my husband to narrate a book for me. Definitely give it a read. Can't wait to read the other books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love this new author! The first book was brilliant and this one did not disappoint too. It has betrayal and grovel with small town vibes. In both books her heros messes up, badly, and I have to say...her betrayal are quite unique and not what you usually expect but the hea is well earned and guaranteed. Highly recommended!
October 23, 2026
Absolutely loved Phoenix and Jackson’s story. Love Phoenix. She’s such a strong independent woman. Jackson really fumbled it with her. I love the groveling and redemption. The OW drama was just amazing. Can’t wait for the next book in the series!!!
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews