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Deadly Secrets
554 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication October 5, 2026
About the author
Amanda Hale
8 books33 followersAmanda lives in Texas with her husband and their two children. She loves stormy days where she can spend time cuddled up on the couch with a good book and a hot cup of tea.
She feels extremely lucky to have such a supportive husband, who repeatedly has encouraged her along the way. Her family is most important to her, and she loves spending evenings at home watching movies or spending time outside.
She feels extremely lucky to have such a supportive husband, who repeatedly has encouraged her along the way. Her family is most important to her, and she loves spending evenings at home watching movies or spending time outside.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC DISCLAIMER: I received an advance reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This is my honest opinion, and receiving a free copy did not influence my rating or review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ [5/5] (rounded up from 4.5)
Deadly Secrets blew me away with how beautifully written it was, how authentically the journey of its main characters Rowan and Leah was shown as they grew both together and separately throughout, and its ability to absolutely tear my freaking heart out then shove it violently back into place over and over again. Anyone who is a fan of a dark and moody, psychologically complex atmosphere, a morally grey-to-black but redeemable MMC with a soft side for his woman only, some delicious (and well-earned) spice, and a truly well-written and engaging plot you can’t predict needs to add this to their TBR!
*There are definitely some very dark elements at play, so definitely check the trigger warnings before diving in.
I went into this with a completely open mind and not quite knowing what to expect. This was my first time receiving an advance copy and I want to thank Amanda profusely for giving me a shot! I was so pleasantly surprised to step right into the story and find myself immediately and thoroughly hooked! I found the writing style and main characters’ internal monologues completely engaging and authentic feeling right from the start and that never once let up for me. When I found myself short on reading time, it actually drove me crazy(!) to not check in with Rowan and Leah and find out how/where they were on their journey.
The plot literally kicks off with a bang (the deadly kind, not the fun kind!) I feel the need to clarify because this is a dark romance, after all! 😉 The opening chapter is set in the past, with our main characters Rowan at age 16, Leah at age 12, and Ethan – all in Leah’s childhood home, where Rowan and Ethan carry out the execution of Leah’s father, with Rowan pulling the trigger. While clearing the scene, Rowan is shocked to find 12-year-old Leah cowering terrified in a closet, clearly having heard everything - but not seeing who shot her father. Rather than killing her as we later find out is his “boss’s” number one rule for witnesses, he urges her to remain silent and leaves her alive in a moment of self-perceived weakness and unwanted humanity on his part. As we gradually learn more about Rowan and his tragic early life and how it led him down a dark path under the “guidance” of his ruthless “guardian” James, this is clearly established as Rowan’s dangerous secret and the book’s main conflict. This is further emphasized by a five-year jump showing how deeply Leah and the burning need to protect her have become embedded in Rowan’s very soul since that initial and unexpectedly meaningful encounter. He is compelled to constantly watch over her from the shadows, anonymously leaving her money as her mother struggles with alcoholism in the wake of their tragedy and keeping her safe, even attacking a threatening man who follows Leah home from school.
Fast forward another four years and we see Rowan’s best friend (and partner-in-crime under James’s brutal leadership) introduce his latest “girlfriend” (aka deeply damaged girl he believes he can mold to his sadistic whims) to Rowan. Ethan not only knows Leah is the daughter of one of their victims but delights in it. Ethan is cold, calculating, and cruel for the sake of being cruel, regularly causing Leah intentional discomfort for his own amusement – a villain through and through. The author did a fantastic job of writing the contrast between Ethan and Rowan, as it’s clear and poignant watching Rowan’s constant inner struggle between his training to be a cold and detached enforcer and embracing the clear underlying emotions and humanity peeking through the daily violence of what he was pushed into doing to survive. Rowan is the “morally grey” book boyfriend dark romance readers will go feral over. His softness and protectiveness over Leah, his “Little Ghost”, as he struggles with his secret and his growing feelings towards her despite all his best efforts to shut them out are so beautifully conveyed and felt throughout the story. It makes the constantly simmering question of if/when he’ll confess to Leah on his own or if she’ll figure out his secret first an additional and agonizing layer to the slow burn and conflict so many of us live for in these stories. This, added to the tension of whether Leah will give in to her growing and undeniable draw to Rowan and if she’ll ever discover how much more there is behind the off-kilter feelings she has when near him, makes the endless tension even more distressing but delicious.
Ok….there is so much more to Rowan and Leah’s story, including tons of unexpected twists and turns in their narrative, and I could (clearly 😜) go on and on about this book, but I’ll stop here at the risk of boring the hell out of anyone reading! To sum it up – read it for the great writing, the dark and intriguing plot, angst, great chemistry, trauma and potential healing, the beautifully fleshed out characters and their growth and vulnerability (especially Rowan), and the emotional journey!
**********************************************************************************************************
🚨🚨🚨 SPOILER WARNING 🚨🚨🚨
STOP READING HERE IF YOU HAVEN’T READ THE BOOK!
The only two reasons for my .5 deduction in my rating are:
1. I was a bit disappointed that Ethan didn’t die a FAR slower and more hideous death. He was truly a piece of shit and deserved it. BUT I 100% get that Rowan had zero time to waste in getting to Leah at that point and that despite deserving far more pain and punishment from Rowan, Ethan not being worthy of another second of his time and attention at that point was also a powerful statement of its own. And at least James got to suffer what I imagine being his worst nightmare in his last moments – the moment he realized he was wrong and had finally misjudged and completely lost control of Rowan, as Rowan looked him in the eyes and handed him his well-deserved death.
2. The ending. I actually loved the ending overall – I found it gut-wrenching and so hard to accept that Leah would go five years without desperately soaking up every single word of what Rowan wrote to her from prison, but that’s probably the desperately dark romantic in me speaking! Their reunion was so touching and real and showed so much hope (after I finished crying my eyes out!) for two characters who deeply and desperately deserved it. My only complaint is that I wanted to see at least a small peak into their future together. But I get that the author wanted to leave some of that potential up to the reader. (Or maybe we’ll get more of Rowan and Leah’s story later(??) (she says hopefully. lol)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ [5/5] (rounded up from 4.5)
Deadly Secrets blew me away with how beautifully written it was, how authentically the journey of its main characters Rowan and Leah was shown as they grew both together and separately throughout, and its ability to absolutely tear my freaking heart out then shove it violently back into place over and over again. Anyone who is a fan of a dark and moody, psychologically complex atmosphere, a morally grey-to-black but redeemable MMC with a soft side for his woman only, some delicious (and well-earned) spice, and a truly well-written and engaging plot you can’t predict needs to add this to their TBR!
*There are definitely some very dark elements at play, so definitely check the trigger warnings before diving in.
I went into this with a completely open mind and not quite knowing what to expect. This was my first time receiving an advance copy and I want to thank Amanda profusely for giving me a shot! I was so pleasantly surprised to step right into the story and find myself immediately and thoroughly hooked! I found the writing style and main characters’ internal monologues completely engaging and authentic feeling right from the start and that never once let up for me. When I found myself short on reading time, it actually drove me crazy(!) to not check in with Rowan and Leah and find out how/where they were on their journey.
The plot literally kicks off with a bang (the deadly kind, not the fun kind!) I feel the need to clarify because this is a dark romance, after all! 😉 The opening chapter is set in the past, with our main characters Rowan at age 16, Leah at age 12, and Ethan – all in Leah’s childhood home, where Rowan and Ethan carry out the execution of Leah’s father, with Rowan pulling the trigger. While clearing the scene, Rowan is shocked to find 12-year-old Leah cowering terrified in a closet, clearly having heard everything - but not seeing who shot her father. Rather than killing her as we later find out is his “boss’s” number one rule for witnesses, he urges her to remain silent and leaves her alive in a moment of self-perceived weakness and unwanted humanity on his part. As we gradually learn more about Rowan and his tragic early life and how it led him down a dark path under the “guidance” of his ruthless “guardian” James, this is clearly established as Rowan’s dangerous secret and the book’s main conflict. This is further emphasized by a five-year jump showing how deeply Leah and the burning need to protect her have become embedded in Rowan’s very soul since that initial and unexpectedly meaningful encounter. He is compelled to constantly watch over her from the shadows, anonymously leaving her money as her mother struggles with alcoholism in the wake of their tragedy and keeping her safe, even attacking a threatening man who follows Leah home from school.
Fast forward another four years and we see Rowan’s best friend (and partner-in-crime under James’s brutal leadership) introduce his latest “girlfriend” (aka deeply damaged girl he believes he can mold to his sadistic whims) to Rowan. Ethan not only knows Leah is the daughter of one of their victims but delights in it. Ethan is cold, calculating, and cruel for the sake of being cruel, regularly causing Leah intentional discomfort for his own amusement – a villain through and through. The author did a fantastic job of writing the contrast between Ethan and Rowan, as it’s clear and poignant watching Rowan’s constant inner struggle between his training to be a cold and detached enforcer and embracing the clear underlying emotions and humanity peeking through the daily violence of what he was pushed into doing to survive. Rowan is the “morally grey” book boyfriend dark romance readers will go feral over. His softness and protectiveness over Leah, his “Little Ghost”, as he struggles with his secret and his growing feelings towards her despite all his best efforts to shut them out are so beautifully conveyed and felt throughout the story. It makes the constantly simmering question of if/when he’ll confess to Leah on his own or if she’ll figure out his secret first an additional and agonizing layer to the slow burn and conflict so many of us live for in these stories. This, added to the tension of whether Leah will give in to her growing and undeniable draw to Rowan and if she’ll ever discover how much more there is behind the off-kilter feelings she has when near him, makes the endless tension even more distressing but delicious.
Ok….there is so much more to Rowan and Leah’s story, including tons of unexpected twists and turns in their narrative, and I could (clearly 😜) go on and on about this book, but I’ll stop here at the risk of boring the hell out of anyone reading! To sum it up – read it for the great writing, the dark and intriguing plot, angst, great chemistry, trauma and potential healing, the beautifully fleshed out characters and their growth and vulnerability (especially Rowan), and the emotional journey!
**********************************************************************************************************
🚨🚨🚨 SPOILER WARNING 🚨🚨🚨
STOP READING HERE IF YOU HAVEN’T READ THE BOOK!
The only two reasons for my .5 deduction in my rating are:
1. I was a bit disappointed that Ethan didn’t die a FAR slower and more hideous death. He was truly a piece of shit and deserved it. BUT I 100% get that Rowan had zero time to waste in getting to Leah at that point and that despite deserving far more pain and punishment from Rowan, Ethan not being worthy of another second of his time and attention at that point was also a powerful statement of its own. And at least James got to suffer what I imagine being his worst nightmare in his last moments – the moment he realized he was wrong and had finally misjudged and completely lost control of Rowan, as Rowan looked him in the eyes and handed him his well-deserved death.
2. The ending. I actually loved the ending overall – I found it gut-wrenching and so hard to accept that Leah would go five years without desperately soaking up every single word of what Rowan wrote to her from prison, but that’s probably the desperately dark romantic in me speaking! Their reunion was so touching and real and showed so much hope (after I finished crying my eyes out!) for two characters who deeply and desperately deserved it. My only complaint is that I wanted to see at least a small peak into their future together. But I get that the author wanted to leave some of that potential up to the reader. (Or maybe we’ll get more of Rowan and Leah’s story later(??) (she says hopefully. lol)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to author for this advanced copy!
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dark, intense, and highly suspenseful
Deadly Secrets by Amanda Hale is a gripping dark romance that definitely delivers on the angst and mystery. Leah is a resilient protagonist, and watching her navigate the danger around her made for a fast-paced read. The dynamic between her and Rowan was deeply intense, though their relationship definitely pushes boundaries.
What I liked:
The plot twists were excellent, and the author built a fantastic, eerie atmosphere where you truly don't know who to trust.
What fell short for me:
The narrative felt a bit long-winded in places. The internal monologues dragged out so much that those were the exact points where I found myself scanning the pages instead of actually reading them. Plus, as soon as everything was revealed, the big mystery felt a bit too obvious.
I also had mixed feelings about the side characters. I really wanted to like Ethan at first, but as the story progressed and his true insanity showed, it was completely over for me. His entire storyline turned into a massive head trip, and the drama surrounding him felt like a chaotic mess. Additionally, James Haze and his "I'm big and mighty" routine missed the mark—in actuality, he was just a power-hungry guy who thought he was untouchable and didn't really add much to the overall story.
Overall:
Even with the pacing issues, the annoying villain, and the predictable reveal, Rowan and Leah made this a rock-solid 4-star read. It’s a solid, gritty romance with an undeniable connection that fans of the genre will definitely appreciate!
#DeadlySecrets
#AmandaHale
#RowanAndLeah
#DarkRomance
#LittleGhost
#RomanticSuspense
#WhatTheHeartWants
#MorallyGray
#TwistedVillain
#ForcedProximity
#Goodreads
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dark, intense, and highly suspenseful
Deadly Secrets by Amanda Hale is a gripping dark romance that definitely delivers on the angst and mystery. Leah is a resilient protagonist, and watching her navigate the danger around her made for a fast-paced read. The dynamic between her and Rowan was deeply intense, though their relationship definitely pushes boundaries.
What I liked:
The plot twists were excellent, and the author built a fantastic, eerie atmosphere where you truly don't know who to trust.
What fell short for me:
The narrative felt a bit long-winded in places. The internal monologues dragged out so much that those were the exact points where I found myself scanning the pages instead of actually reading them. Plus, as soon as everything was revealed, the big mystery felt a bit too obvious.
I also had mixed feelings about the side characters. I really wanted to like Ethan at first, but as the story progressed and his true insanity showed, it was completely over for me. His entire storyline turned into a massive head trip, and the drama surrounding him felt like a chaotic mess. Additionally, James Haze and his "I'm big and mighty" routine missed the mark—in actuality, he was just a power-hungry guy who thought he was untouchable and didn't really add much to the overall story.
Overall:
Even with the pacing issues, the annoying villain, and the predictable reveal, Rowan and Leah made this a rock-solid 4-star read. It’s a solid, gritty romance with an undeniable connection that fans of the genre will definitely appreciate!
#DeadlySecrets
#AmandaHale
#RowanAndLeah
#DarkRomance
#LittleGhost
#RomanticSuspense
#WhatTheHeartWants
#MorallyGray
#TwistedVillain
#ForcedProximity
#Goodreads
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you for the opportunity to read this advanced copy, it was my first ARC experience and I loved it.
It was a nail biter, one that had me unable to stop reading.
I enjoyed this thoroughly, it was a thrilling, dark read that at some points had me feeling as though I were watching it as a fly on the wall. There was always something happening, something that seemed big but the further on I read, these little occurrences seemed outweighed by the weight of how things turned between Leah and those who shall not be named. Leah’s character in herself seemed so small and vulnerable despite the strength she had, it’s just a shame she hadn’t seemed to have that get-up-and-go earlier, I’d have liked to see more attempts at exiting the situation she was in, more of a push-back, some nastiness to upset, a flare of temper more often, to at least have flashes of memory to justify her placidness but it also showcases how hard it is, when you’re in that situation, to get out of it. Leah’s development felt stunted in some parts but I did grow to love her in a way where I too wanted to help her towards the end, Rowan felt consistent throughout however in understanding who he was, why he was the way he was, Leah had so much potential for growth a little earlier on in the book. Admittedly I loved Rowan, his calculated, harsh look on life except with Leah is something I adored.
The run-up to the finale was intense, the tension, the anxiety of knowing how it’s going to end but still being shocked in the moment is rare in a book where I could see how it was going to turn out, I’ve tried to cram this book into every spare minute I have and I can’t explain enough how much I’ve inhaled this entire story. Solid 4.5 of 5
Thank you for the opportunity to read this advanced copy, it was my first ARC experience and I loved it.
It was a nail biter, one that had me unable to stop reading.
I enjoyed this thoroughly, it was a thrilling, dark read that at some points had me feeling as though I were watching it as a fly on the wall. There was always something happening, something that seemed big but the further on I read, these little occurrences seemed outweighed by the weight of how things turned between Leah and those who shall not be named. Leah’s character in herself seemed so small and vulnerable despite the strength she had, it’s just a shame she hadn’t seemed to have that get-up-and-go earlier, I’d have liked to see more attempts at exiting the situation she was in, more of a push-back, some nastiness to upset, a flare of temper more often, to at least have flashes of memory to justify her placidness but it also showcases how hard it is, when you’re in that situation, to get out of it. Leah’s development felt stunted in some parts but I did grow to love her in a way where I too wanted to help her towards the end, Rowan felt consistent throughout however in understanding who he was, why he was the way he was, Leah had so much potential for growth a little earlier on in the book. Admittedly I loved Rowan, his calculated, harsh look on life except with Leah is something I adored.
The run-up to the finale was intense, the tension, the anxiety of knowing how it’s going to end but still being shocked in the moment is rare in a book where I could see how it was going to turn out, I’ve tried to cram this book into every spare minute I have and I can’t explain enough how much I’ve inhaled this entire story. Solid 4.5 of 5
October 3, 2026
This book pulled me into a web of secrets, danger, and obsession, and I was more than happy to stay there. The suspense kept me turning pages while the chemistry had me completely invested. 🩸🖤 This one gave me fear, frustration, heartbreak, obsession, suspense, and just enough spice to keep me very happy.🩸🔥
Rowan? Yeah… I have a new problem. 👀 There is something about a morally grey man who knows more than he’s letting on, watches from the shadows, and has been protecting her without her knowing that absolutely does it for me. 🥵
Leah had my heart. She’s been through so much, and watching her try to make sense of everything while uncovering pieces of her past had me wanting to reach through the book and protect her. I loved seeing her slowly piece everything together and find her strength through it all to protect herself. 🖤 She’s strong, emotional, and incredibly easy to root for. 🖤🥺
Ethan had me going from “aww, he’s sweet” to “GIRL, GET THE FUCK OUT.” His true colours slowly come out, and watching that unfold was one of the most frustrating—and addictive—parts of the book.
And the secrets? THE SECRETS. Every time I thought I had things figured out, another piece fell into place and had me questioning who could actually be trusted. The tension kept building, and I was completely invested in Leah and Rowan finding their way to each other. Leah kept looking for the guy she met in Ethan but sometimes the pull of a connection you just can't understand brings you to someone that you shouldn't love but your heart chooses anyway.
#Bookstagram #BookReview #DarkRomance #RomanticSuspense #RomanceBooks
Rowan? Yeah… I have a new problem. 👀 There is something about a morally grey man who knows more than he’s letting on, watches from the shadows, and has been protecting her without her knowing that absolutely does it for me. 🥵
Leah had my heart. She’s been through so much, and watching her try to make sense of everything while uncovering pieces of her past had me wanting to reach through the book and protect her. I loved seeing her slowly piece everything together and find her strength through it all to protect herself. 🖤 She’s strong, emotional, and incredibly easy to root for. 🖤🥺
Ethan had me going from “aww, he’s sweet” to “GIRL, GET THE FUCK OUT.” His true colours slowly come out, and watching that unfold was one of the most frustrating—and addictive—parts of the book.
And the secrets? THE SECRETS. Every time I thought I had things figured out, another piece fell into place and had me questioning who could actually be trusted. The tension kept building, and I was completely invested in Leah and Rowan finding their way to each other. Leah kept looking for the guy she met in Ethan but sometimes the pull of a connection you just can't understand brings you to someone that you shouldn't love but your heart chooses anyway.
#Bookstagram #BookReview #DarkRomance #RomanticSuspense #RomanceBooks
Review of advance copy received from Author
I couldn't put it down; I needed to know what happened next.
Leah's story broke my heart, and her character is beautiful. I could genuinely feel her being torn between all of her emotions. Her attachment to Ethan is frustrating, and I wish she'd distance herself from him sooner, just because I didn't want her character to go through more than she already had!
Rowan is the anti-hero I love to read about. His story is also heartbreaking, and his character is developed seamlessly. Sometimes, I find characters like Rowan are written with an edge that feels too dramatic, but Rowan's behaviour is consistent throughout the whole story.
I think the concept of the story is unique! While some of it was predictable in the same way all tropes have their predictability, the story unfolded organically, and everything felt purposeful.
The spice was perfect! I didn't want spice with Leah and Ethan, and those scenes were just enough to give me the ick without being too much. And I wanted spice with Leah and Rowan, and it was the perfect amount without being too much!
No spoilers, but I approve of the way it ended!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Leah's story broke my heart, and her character is beautiful. I could genuinely feel her being torn between all of her emotions. Her attachment to Ethan is frustrating, and I wish she'd distance herself from him sooner, just because I didn't want her character to go through more than she already had!
Rowan is the anti-hero I love to read about. His story is also heartbreaking, and his character is developed seamlessly. Sometimes, I find characters like Rowan are written with an edge that feels too dramatic, but Rowan's behaviour is consistent throughout the whole story.
I think the concept of the story is unique! While some of it was predictable in the same way all tropes have their predictability, the story unfolded organically, and everything felt purposeful.
The spice was perfect! I didn't want spice with Leah and Ethan, and those scenes were just enough to give me the ick without being too much. And I wanted spice with Leah and Rowan, and it was the perfect amount without being too much!
No spoilers, but I approve of the way it ended!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Deadly Secrets is a very good book that had me hooked from the beginning. I am the kind of person who usually doesn't like starting new books, because it always takes me some time to get invested, but this book was a rare exception for me. I was already invested after the first couple of pages!
The story was good, even if there weren't any big plot twists, and you could pretty much guess a lot of what would happen.
I want to mention that if you find cheating triggering, there might be some parts of the book you won't like. With that being said, it's not really between the MC's, and it's a smaller part of the book. I did, however, have a tiny bit of a reaction myself, so just wanted to warn fellow souls lol.
I will still recommend the book though! It is worth it, and there is (kind of) a HEA, but I must admit I was a bit disappointed by Leah's reaction right before the ending... It might have been the smart (and maybe even realistic) choice, but my dark heart wanted her to do... Not that 🥲🖤
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story was good, even if there weren't any big plot twists, and you could pretty much guess a lot of what would happen.
I want to mention that if you find cheating triggering, there might be some parts of the book you won't like. With that being said, it's not really between the MC's, and it's a smaller part of the book. I did, however, have a tiny bit of a reaction myself, so just wanted to warn fellow souls lol.
I will still recommend the book though! It is worth it, and there is (kind of) a HEA, but I must admit I was a bit disappointed by Leah's reaction right before the ending... It might have been the smart (and maybe even realistic) choice, but my dark heart wanted her to do... Not that 🥲🖤
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 25, 2026
Advanced Readers Copy Review
Intense. Suspenseful. Completely gripping. I could NOT put this book down.
I was hooked from the very first page—honestly, the prologue had me in a chokehold. 😂
Rowan and Leah’s story is one that will stay with me. Even knowing from the beginning where things were headed, I still found myself completely invested in them and desperately wanting to see their story unfold. I was biting my nails, holding my breath, and questioning everything the entire time.
Every relationship in this story pushes boundaries, and some of the content is seriously dark, so please read the trigger warnings before diving in.
I was absolutely honored to receive this as an ARC, and this is definitely one of those books that had me thinking about it long after I put it down.
If you love dark romance with suspense, intensity, complicated relationships, and a story that keeps you on edge—add this one to your TBR. 🖤📚
Intense. Suspenseful. Completely gripping. I could NOT put this book down.
I was hooked from the very first page—honestly, the prologue had me in a chokehold. 😂
Rowan and Leah’s story is one that will stay with me. Even knowing from the beginning where things were headed, I still found myself completely invested in them and desperately wanting to see their story unfold. I was biting my nails, holding my breath, and questioning everything the entire time.
Every relationship in this story pushes boundaries, and some of the content is seriously dark, so please read the trigger warnings before diving in.
I was absolutely honored to receive this as an ARC, and this is definitely one of those books that had me thinking about it long after I put it down.
If you love dark romance with suspense, intensity, complicated relationships, and a story that keeps you on edge—add this one to your TBR. 🖤📚
Review of advance copy received from Author
I got this book as an ARC in exchange for a honest review
I find this book very frustrating. Specifically Leah. It's hard to feel sorry for her when she keeps making stupid choices. It's like she wanted to be miserable and refused to do anything to get herself out of a bad situation.
Ethan gave her so many reasons not to trust him, her own instincts told her he was off, yet she just chooses to ignore every red flag and stay with him. It was frustrating that she wouldn't just leave him especially when she had feelings for Rowan
She was playing a very dangerous game between the two of them
The tension between Rowan and Leah was tense and heated. They definitely had this push and pull effect when they are trying to fight the chemistry and attraction yet can't keep away from each other.
The book was well written overall what ruined it for me is I can't stand love triangles and cheating.
I find this book very frustrating. Specifically Leah. It's hard to feel sorry for her when she keeps making stupid choices. It's like she wanted to be miserable and refused to do anything to get herself out of a bad situation.
Ethan gave her so many reasons not to trust him, her own instincts told her he was off, yet she just chooses to ignore every red flag and stay with him. It was frustrating that she wouldn't just leave him especially when she had feelings for Rowan
She was playing a very dangerous game between the two of them
The tension between Rowan and Leah was tense and heated. They definitely had this push and pull effect when they are trying to fight the chemistry and attraction yet can't keep away from each other.
The book was well written overall what ruined it for me is I can't stand love triangles and cheating.
October 5, 2026
I'm giving this ARC a 4.5-star rating! I was so excited to get into the ARC when I first heard about the premise. I'm generally new to the world of Dark Romance, so this one sounded like a good one for me to get into the genre. Let me say that once I picked it up, I could not put it down. There were many times when I was on the edge of my seat because I desperately wanted to know what happened next. Rowan and Leah have such strong chemistry that it made me legit believe they were real people. I feel like everyone at one point in their lives needs a Rowan, someone who will go out of their way for the ones they love. The only thing I will say is that while I was expecting the book to end the way it did, I did feel like it was kind of rushed. I just wish there was more buildup to it, since it went from one moment to another. Other than that, it was very enjoyable, and I would highly recommend picking up a copy of this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm thankful I had the best rainy day to sit down and read this in one sitting. It was sssooooo goooood! I loved how Rowan ensured Leah was taken care of for years without her knowledge. Her relationship with Ethan just pissed me off. I kept thinking, "where are her friends to tell her he is a jerk?!" The deeper I went into the story the more I loved all the plot twists. There wasn't a point I felt it was "slow", as much as, leave him! I consumed the entire ending! I had to know what happened and where everything ended up. This is where all the plot twists finally started to be solved. Most authors write an ending to ensure readers are happy for the characters, but our characters have to work for it. I loved it! The title of the book is truly fitting for the storyline.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The emotions this book put me through had me on the edge of my seat! I went from fear for Leah, to anger on her behalf, to loving AND hating Rowan and finally to pure, unfiltered RAGE for Ethan.The emotional rollercoaster was REAL. Leah has truly been through the absolute ringer, and Rowan… that broody black cat stole my heart. The chemistry and tension ?! The desire, the obsession, the way the characters become completely reckless for each other I was eating it up!!!!!! I loved that the spice was there without completely taking over the story. It added to the tension and chemistry while still keeping the plot moving and the emotions high. Nothing felt overwhelming the spice kept the story alive rather than distracting from it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’m crying as I write this, having just finished the book. I cannot put into words the emotions it made me feel throughout it, having become obsessed with finishing it. She sent me the link on September 16th. It’s… September 20th, and I’ve finished it. That’s the fastest I’ve ever read an arc.
This book had me in a chokehold. From the first chapter, I was obsessed. I went through so many emotions reading this-fear, hatred, longing, love, to name a few.
I hated watching the story unfold between her and Ethan-but loved watching the story blossom with her and Rowan.
I have a new book boyfriend, and his name is Rowan Cross.
Please please please check the trigger warnings before reading this, but if they don’t scare you away-this is a must read.
This book had me in a chokehold. From the first chapter, I was obsessed. I went through so many emotions reading this-fear, hatred, longing, love, to name a few.
I hated watching the story unfold between her and Ethan-but loved watching the story blossom with her and Rowan.
I have a new book boyfriend, and his name is Rowan Cross.
Please please please check the trigger warnings before reading this, but if they don’t scare you away-this is a must read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for this ARC.
Dark, Tense and packed with secrets.... and I finished it in one night and loved it.
Deadly Secrets pulled me in with its premise : a boy ordered to leave no witnesses and when their lives collide twelve years later she has no idea who he really is.
I also really like that the romance was tangled up with guilt, danger and consequences of what happened 12 years ago.
Dark, obsessive, suspenseful and messy in exactly the way a dark romance should be.
🖤 morally grey MMCs
🔪 dark secrets and dangerous pasts
🥀 obsessive/possessive behaviour
🩸 psychological suspense
🔥 forbidden tension
💀 he was supposed to kill her... but couldn't
Dark, Tense and packed with secrets.... and I finished it in one night and loved it.
Deadly Secrets pulled me in with its premise : a boy ordered to leave no witnesses and when their lives collide twelve years later she has no idea who he really is.
I also really like that the romance was tangled up with guilt, danger and consequences of what happened 12 years ago.
Dark, obsessive, suspenseful and messy in exactly the way a dark romance should be.
🖤 morally grey MMCs
🔪 dark secrets and dangerous pasts
🥀 obsessive/possessive behaviour
🩸 psychological suspense
🔥 forbidden tension
💀 he was supposed to kill her... but couldn't
Review of advance copy received from Author
Deadly Secrets is Rowan and Leah's story. This story is incredibly intense, emotional, dramatic and consuming. These characters go through so much and Leah endures more than she ever should have. This book isn't one of those stories that you can read and put down to come back to later. Every page demands another until before you know it the end is there. It's an absolute must read journey!
"Maybe forgiveness wasn’t forgetting what someone had done. Maybe it wasn’t pretending the scars didn’t exist. Maybe forgiveness was simply deciding the scars weren’t the only things worth remembering."
"Maybe forgiveness wasn’t forgetting what someone had done. Maybe it wasn’t pretending the scars didn’t exist. Maybe forgiveness was simply deciding the scars weren’t the only things worth remembering."
September 29, 2026
I really wanted to give this book a 5 as I couldn’t put it down but I can’t. The characters are written beautifully…you can feel the pain in Rowan and Leah. You can understand why Leah kept going back to Ethan as it was for survival. The love scenes between the main characters was anti climatic for me. I enjoyed the plot and the twist and turns and will absolutely ready another book by this author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved this book! So many emotions. I went from angry to laughing out loud and the occasional gasp. You will get to know Ethan, Rowan, and Leah and their relationships. While learning about their traumatic pasts and secrets that some would kill over. I think everything turned out as should’ve in the end.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had me from the very first chapter. With so many emotions from love, hate, fearful, and shock to just name a few. I loath Ethan but am in love with Rowan Cross!! This is a great read and would recommend it to anyone looking for a dark romance top tier read with twist and turns!
This was my very first arc read....I can only hope my future reads are as good as this one was!!
This was my very first arc read....I can only hope my future reads are as good as this one was!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advanced copy of this book for my honest review. I enjoyed this book although I can’t stand cheating. I understand it was necessary for the story. But I wish the author could have found a way to write this without the FMC sleeping with 2 men at once. Also I wished it could have been shorter. I do recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had me hooked from the first chapter, I devoured it!
The characters were wrote in a way that made me understand each one as an individual. The plot kept a good flow and ramped up to a fantastic ending! This was my first book by Amanda Hale and I plan to read more now! Thank you for letting me be an ARC reader on such a fantastic story!
The characters were wrote in a way that made me understand each one as an individual. The plot kept a good flow and ramped up to a fantastic ending! This was my first book by Amanda Hale and I plan to read more now! Thank you for letting me be an ARC reader on such a fantastic story!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Highly addictive storyline that pulled me in in the first chapter and NEVER let me go. Detailed well written book. Multi layered characters. Lots of secrets, danger, suspense. Loved every minute of this amazing story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book kept me on my toes. I could not put it down. This author has an awesome imagination. Twists and turns that keep you guessing and reading for more. Absolutely LOVED this book. Can't wait to read more from Amanda Hale
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am so thankful I received this copy from the author! This book was so amazing. The plot was everything. Definitely more plot than spice and I honestly love that. Definitely didn’t predict anything and had me hooked from the beginning! I would recommend this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fantastic story, but it just went on too long. My heart just couldn’t handle all that pressure! A must for the more suspense loving readers. I received an ARC and leave this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Amazing couldn't put it down. Always on the edge of your seat.
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