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Hawks MC Caroline Springs Charter #1
The Secret's Out
Moving to Melbourne for university, Josie Alexander knew the transition would be hard. She didn’t realise just how difficult it’d be until things turn ugly. Damaged by a past that leaves her struggling with physical contact, her brave move to start afresh, soon turns into a nightmare.
Afraid and vulnerable, Josie’s fragile independence threatens to unravel around her. That is until the two men who refuse to leave her thoughts show up in Melbourne.
Caden Adams, “Pick” to his biker brethren, has had a hard life. His only light is Josie, who he loses when she leaves Ballarat for Melbourne. Dealing with day to day life without his heart is hard, especially with the darkness threatening to consume him. When MC President, Talon, informs him that Josie’s in trouble, he’s determined to make sure he’s there to protect her. Only, he won’t be doing it alone.
Eli “Billy the Kid” Walker has never experienced love, not even from those who should have cared the most. Only Josie and Caden have ever come close to infiltrating his hardened heart. With Josie gone, he pushes Caden away, unwilling to take a risk, even if it’s something he wants.
When given with the opportunity to prove to each other how they really feel, will they all be able to have the courage to fight for what their hearts desire? Above all else, will they survive the fallout when their secret’s out?
Afraid and vulnerable, Josie’s fragile independence threatens to unravel around her. That is until the two men who refuse to leave her thoughts show up in Melbourne.
Caden Adams, “Pick” to his biker brethren, has had a hard life. His only light is Josie, who he loses when she leaves Ballarat for Melbourne. Dealing with day to day life without his heart is hard, especially with the darkness threatening to consume him. When MC President, Talon, informs him that Josie’s in trouble, he’s determined to make sure he’s there to protect her. Only, he won’t be doing it alone.
Eli “Billy the Kid” Walker has never experienced love, not even from those who should have cared the most. Only Josie and Caden have ever come close to infiltrating his hardened heart. With Josie gone, he pushes Caden away, unwilling to take a risk, even if it’s something he wants.
When given with the opportunity to prove to each other how they really feel, will they all be able to have the courage to fight for what their hearts desire? Above all else, will they survive the fallout when their secret’s out?
245 pages, Unknown Binding
First published October 4, 2015
437 people are currently reading
2147 people want to read
About the author
Lila Rose
56 books3,974 followers Lila Rose is also known as L. Rose.
Lila Rose has moved about Australia a lot of her life. Currently, she lives in country Victoria Australia with her husband and two children.
Lila is addicted to coffee, chocolate and reading.
She also loves to write humorous romance. For all novels that come from her weird brain, check out her website!
Lila Rose has moved about Australia a lot of her life. Currently, she lives in country Victoria Australia with her husband and two children.
Lila is addicted to coffee, chocolate and reading.
She also loves to write humorous romance. For all novels that come from her weird brain, check out her website!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 267 reviews
December 31, 2015
1.5 Disappointing Stars
I absolutely loved Lila Roses Hawks Motorcycle Club series and it's some of the books that I re-read a lot, but this book was nothing like those and I couldn't get into it at all. I found myself skimming and even took a nap in the middle of reading because I was just so bored. These characters were doing nothing for me, especially Josie who I wanted to slap multiple times.
Josie is having problems at her Uni with the other students there so Caden and Eli come to help her out and scare people away from her. Both guys have feelings for Josie but don't want to push her into anything since she had a horrible past. But Josie wants both of them and now that they're with her again she can't hide that fact. But after such a traumatic experience in her past can she accept the both of them in her bed?
Josie was a huge part of why I had so many issues with this book. Her character annoyed the ever loving shit out of me with her constant whining and mood changes. I kept holing out hope that she would grow a back bone by the end of the book but when she tried to claim the guys as hers when some woman was hitting on them, it was just painful to read. She kept saying "please" and "I'm sorry" while trying to be tough. Overall she was timid and too weak for me to like.
It also annoyed me how everyone was babying Josie and trying to help her when she was doing nothing to help herself. I'm pretty sure that every person that came into her life had to give some kind of speech about how much they wanted to help her and that they wish that could do more. Really? Just, really???
Through the whole book I never really got a sense of romance and I didn't feel the connection between the three characters. I feel like the majority of the book was focused on Josie and her issues and then as if there was this a side note of "oh, by the way these three are in love." I wanted more from their relationship, I guess.
Bottom line, not my favorite from this author. I'm left wanting more of a story and disappointed, but I will not give up on Lila Rose. I will forever love the Hawks MC and I hope the next book will be better for me when I get around to reading it.
Edit: I highly recommend reading the Hawks Motorcycle Club series before this book so you can get the backstory on Josie.
I absolutely loved Lila Roses Hawks Motorcycle Club series and it's some of the books that I re-read a lot, but this book was nothing like those and I couldn't get into it at all. I found myself skimming and even took a nap in the middle of reading because I was just so bored. These characters were doing nothing for me, especially Josie who I wanted to slap multiple times.
Josie is having problems at her Uni with the other students there so Caden and Eli come to help her out and scare people away from her. Both guys have feelings for Josie but don't want to push her into anything since she had a horrible past. But Josie wants both of them and now that they're with her again she can't hide that fact. But after such a traumatic experience in her past can she accept the both of them in her bed?
Josie was a huge part of why I had so many issues with this book. Her character annoyed the ever loving shit out of me with her constant whining and mood changes. I kept holing out hope that she would grow a back bone by the end of the book but when she tried to claim the guys as hers when some woman was hitting on them, it was just painful to read. She kept saying "please" and "I'm sorry" while trying to be tough. Overall she was timid and too weak for me to like.
It also annoyed me how everyone was babying Josie and trying to help her when she was doing nothing to help herself. I'm pretty sure that every person that came into her life had to give some kind of speech about how much they wanted to help her and that they wish that could do more. Really? Just, really???
Through the whole book I never really got a sense of romance and I didn't feel the connection between the three characters. I feel like the majority of the book was focused on Josie and her issues and then as if there was this a side note of "oh, by the way these three are in love." I wanted more from their relationship, I guess.
Bottom line, not my favorite from this author. I'm left wanting more of a story and disappointed, but I will not give up on Lila Rose. I will forever love the Hawks MC and I hope the next book will be better for me when I get around to reading it.
Edit: I highly recommend reading the Hawks Motorcycle Club series before this book so you can get the backstory on Josie.
December 20, 2015
Hot and sweet MMF biker menage romance. h is an abused h a bit of a wimp but still likeable, both her men adored and worshipped her, the stalker/bully villain was a bit scary, a bit cliche, but it all works out and ends with a HEA.
3.75 stars.
3.75 stars.
September 15, 2015
I was so excited about this story. Well, okay I'm always excited with anything to do with Hawks. LOL. But seriously, I was ripe for Josie&Billy&Pick's story. So much to overcome and heal, and finally to be able to find happiness.
The first thing, that got to me, when I started to read was...Well, I just started and I already wanted to kill some SOB's. Lila really starts her books with and emotional bang. No time to be bored! I'm few chapter into and my heart is breaking, I'm sad and in pain and the next thing I know, my nails cuts into my palms. I'm so pissed and ready for a good kick to the balls. And then I laughed, because... Well, it's Lila's work. You always going through the kaleidoscope of emotions. Never knowing, if next you gonna cry, laugh or be in mental fist fight. Sometimes you're feeling all them at once.
I so loved the guys. Billy and Pick where so perfect. The way they where with Josie it was just priceless. I can't say anything bad about them. Not for once they got on my bad side. And that's so rare.
Josie was such a fighter. Yes, at the beginning she did, or more accurately what she didn't do... Well, Josie wanted to prove to herself and her family that she can do on her own. That she's not a failure. Not getting for a while, that leaning on your family isn't a failure. But you are gifted with someones, who will always have your back. And you don't need always to fight alone.
It was really beautiful, how with each step, Josie finds more of her true self. She's cute, sweet, and minx. Josie is such a special and strong person. I so loved how she accepted all sides of her men. She never judged them. She was always suportive of them and their choices.
Josie&Billy&Pick where perfect for each other.
And I was so enjoying a happy moments, despite that some SOB still needed to be dealt with. So, like I said, I enjoyed, everything beautiful, hearts, bikers and flowers, when bam!! OMG! I was blindsided! Lila just gutted me!
First time in my reading history, I needed to turn off my kindle and have a quiet moment for myself. Because I just couldn’t continue to read it. I was...I just couldn't. Tears kept coming and I just couldn’t go past that moment. I was a mess. I was in pain. I knew Hawk's wouldn't be the same. They would be missing one member of theirs family.
And when I finally got myself in hand. And slowly starded to calm down...Lila hurt my heart again! The woman gave me the biggest scare ever! Holy f*cking biker!
This journey has Lila's typical signature of hers. Which always make you to come back for more. Dangerous & humour & adventure & hotness and all other stuff in one. But this time it was much more. It was more realistic. More intense. More painful. I really can't fully explain it. It just was... More.
And the ending...It gave me a lot to think of. Well, actually not only the ending made me think about a lot of theories. Some characters just wouldn't leave my head. I so need another Hawks story. Like always, I just barely finished reading and I already needing more.
The first thing, that got to me, when I started to read was...Well, I just started and I already wanted to kill some SOB's. Lila really starts her books with and emotional bang. No time to be bored! I'm few chapter into and my heart is breaking, I'm sad and in pain and the next thing I know, my nails cuts into my palms. I'm so pissed and ready for a good kick to the balls. And then I laughed, because... Well, it's Lila's work. You always going through the kaleidoscope of emotions. Never knowing, if next you gonna cry, laugh or be in mental fist fight. Sometimes you're feeling all them at once.
I so loved the guys. Billy and Pick where so perfect. The way they where with Josie it was just priceless. I can't say anything bad about them. Not for once they got on my bad side. And that's so rare.
Josie was such a fighter. Yes, at the beginning she did, or more accurately what she didn't do... Well, Josie wanted to prove to herself and her family that she can do on her own. That she's not a failure. Not getting for a while, that leaning on your family isn't a failure. But you are gifted with someones, who will always have your back. And you don't need always to fight alone.
It was really beautiful, how with each step, Josie finds more of her true self. She's cute, sweet, and minx. Josie is such a special and strong person. I so loved how she accepted all sides of her men. She never judged them. She was always suportive of them and their choices.
Josie&Billy&Pick where perfect for each other.
And I was so enjoying a happy moments, despite that some SOB still needed to be dealt with. So, like I said, I enjoyed, everything beautiful, hearts, bikers and flowers, when bam!! OMG! I was blindsided! Lila just gutted me!
First time in my reading history, I needed to turn off my kindle and have a quiet moment for myself. Because I just couldn’t continue to read it. I was...I just couldn't. Tears kept coming and I just couldn’t go past that moment. I was a mess. I was in pain. I knew Hawk's wouldn't be the same. They would be missing one member of theirs family.
And when I finally got myself in hand. And slowly starded to calm down...Lila hurt my heart again! The woman gave me the biggest scare ever! Holy f*cking biker!
This journey has Lila's typical signature of hers. Which always make you to come back for more. Dangerous & humour & adventure & hotness and all other stuff in one. But this time it was much more. It was more realistic. More intense. More painful. I really can't fully explain it. It just was... More.
And the ending...It gave me a lot to think of. Well, actually not only the ending made me think about a lot of theories. Some characters just wouldn't leave my head. I so need another Hawks story. Like always, I just barely finished reading and I already needing more.
October 7, 2015
OH MY GOD!!!! This has got to be Lila Rose's best book yet!!!! And that is really saying something because I say that each new book she writes. Each book gets better & better and now we have a whole new series, with not only characters we have grown to love, but new hot, sexy bikers to drool over!!!! Life is good!!!
This book was darker than we are used to from Lila but it was SO VERY GOOD!!!! Josie left home two years ago, not just to go to school but also because she couldn't pick between the two men who loved her. She couldn't bear to hurt either one when she loved them both. Now she is being terrorized and all she wants is to go home but she refuses to give up her dreams. And then Billy the Kid (Eli) and Pick (Caden) show up and it's like home has come to her.
Caden and Eli! WOW, there is a complicated relationship. After all, they are alpha biker dudes, right? They can't really have feelings for each other, can they? Aside from that they have both loved Josie for four years. But they knew, after all she had been through growing up, she needed special treatment. Could she ever get over the abuse she had suffered? Would she ever feel comfortable being touched? When they found out someone was hurting their woman they put aside their own issues and rode to the rescue. But of course, things couldn't be that simple.
Can these broken souls overcome the odds and find their own "home" in the arms of each other? Come along for the ride of your life and see where all the twists and turns will take these fantastic characters!!!! You won't be disappointed!!!!!
This book was darker than we are used to from Lila but it was SO VERY GOOD!!!! Josie left home two years ago, not just to go to school but also because she couldn't pick between the two men who loved her. She couldn't bear to hurt either one when she loved them both. Now she is being terrorized and all she wants is to go home but she refuses to give up her dreams. And then Billy the Kid (Eli) and Pick (Caden) show up and it's like home has come to her.
Caden and Eli! WOW, there is a complicated relationship. After all, they are alpha biker dudes, right? They can't really have feelings for each other, can they? Aside from that they have both loved Josie for four years. But they knew, after all she had been through growing up, she needed special treatment. Could she ever get over the abuse she had suffered? Would she ever feel comfortable being touched? When they found out someone was hurting their woman they put aside their own issues and rode to the rescue. But of course, things couldn't be that simple.
Can these broken souls overcome the odds and find their own "home" in the arms of each other? Come along for the ride of your life and see where all the twists and turns will take these fantastic characters!!!! You won't be disappointed!!!!!
December 21, 2015
Awesome!
I loved the relationship between these three! And even though its not a conventional relationship, they are devoted to each other!
Lila Rose tells the best biker stories!
I loved the relationship between these three! And even though its not a conventional relationship, they are devoted to each other!
Lila Rose tells the best biker stories!
December 24, 2018
This was the saddest book in the whole series :<
September 25, 2015
5 huge heart melting stars for the next installment in the Hawks MC - Caroline Springs Charter that features Josie Alexander / Caden "Pick" Adams / Eli "Billy the Kid" Walker. This book is truly a beautiful coming together of three individuals that have all had their fair share of abuse/pain/heartache/neglect it contains both M/F ~ M/M ~ M/M/F scenes that are some of the most scorching hot scenes this author has ever written so consider yourself warned of the menage/triad relationship portion and enjoy the journey she takes you on.
Josie Alexander has been away in Melbourne at university for the last two years missing her family desperately. Josie decided she will conquer her demons and succeed on her own so she refuses to tuck her tail between her legs and run back home to the only family she has ever had in Ballarat. She has a great friend and roommate in Simone and the elusive home owner Parker who is rarely there. Everything was going well until she accepted a date with a guy named Cameron who realized rather quickly that Josie was different from other girls and instead of respecting her boundaries he thought he could push them by tormenting her. Days of torment turned into weeks then months and Josie is starting to shut down until Simone makes a call that changes everything.
Billy is a true ladies man and has fun flirting and seducing anything in a skirt he also considers himself heterosexual and in no way attracted to men, but one drunken night a few years ago changed everything between him and Pick. Billy and Pick are both in love with the same woman but instead of her choosing between them she decided to move away to attend university. Billy refuses to even be friends with Pick after the fall out two years ago finding it easier to avoid the temptation of him all together then be faced with thoughts of their night together. Now they are sent on a mission by Talon...together...to help Josie. Billy has no idea how this will play out but it has been two long years in the making.
Pick messed up once before with the Hawks when he sold Zara out, therefore he knows there is no way in this life or the next he would do anything to jeopardize the family he has found in the MC. After the horrific childhood his mother put him through where he was both physically and sexually assaulted Pick has accepted his bisexual side but it still makes him feel so dirty to want the things he does especially when he has those thoughts about Billy. Now standing in front of Talon hearing him say he wants him and Billy to go to Melbourne and stay with Josie to handle her problems is like a dream come true. Billy and Pick can finally claim their girl as long as Josie is agreeable and live the life he has only dreamed about.
Wow this edition to the Hawks MC was by far my favorite. I think the crew of the MC and town of Caroline Springs is going to be epic! I both laughed and sobbed while reading this book and certain parts had me overheating it was so damn steamy. We got to meet new characters that certainly have a story to tell and caught up on old ones too. Then of course the way the author sets up the storyline for the next book in the series is just enough to leave you wanting it right now... Hello Saxon ;)
Josie Alexander has been away in Melbourne at university for the last two years missing her family desperately. Josie decided she will conquer her demons and succeed on her own so she refuses to tuck her tail between her legs and run back home to the only family she has ever had in Ballarat. She has a great friend and roommate in Simone and the elusive home owner Parker who is rarely there. Everything was going well until she accepted a date with a guy named Cameron who realized rather quickly that Josie was different from other girls and instead of respecting her boundaries he thought he could push them by tormenting her. Days of torment turned into weeks then months and Josie is starting to shut down until Simone makes a call that changes everything.
Billy is a true ladies man and has fun flirting and seducing anything in a skirt he also considers himself heterosexual and in no way attracted to men, but one drunken night a few years ago changed everything between him and Pick. Billy and Pick are both in love with the same woman but instead of her choosing between them she decided to move away to attend university. Billy refuses to even be friends with Pick after the fall out two years ago finding it easier to avoid the temptation of him all together then be faced with thoughts of their night together. Now they are sent on a mission by Talon...together...to help Josie. Billy has no idea how this will play out but it has been two long years in the making.
Pick messed up once before with the Hawks when he sold Zara out, therefore he knows there is no way in this life or the next he would do anything to jeopardize the family he has found in the MC. After the horrific childhood his mother put him through where he was both physically and sexually assaulted Pick has accepted his bisexual side but it still makes him feel so dirty to want the things he does especially when he has those thoughts about Billy. Now standing in front of Talon hearing him say he wants him and Billy to go to Melbourne and stay with Josie to handle her problems is like a dream come true. Billy and Pick can finally claim their girl as long as Josie is agreeable and live the life he has only dreamed about.
Wow this edition to the Hawks MC was by far my favorite. I think the crew of the MC and town of Caroline Springs is going to be epic! I both laughed and sobbed while reading this book and certain parts had me overheating it was so damn steamy. We got to meet new characters that certainly have a story to tell and caught up on old ones too. Then of course the way the author sets up the storyline for the next book in the series is just enough to leave you wanting it right now... Hello Saxon ;)
September 13, 2018
I enjoyed almost the entire book.
* Vulnerable heroine but with a backbone and character ✅
* Loving friends and (foster)family ✅
* Not 1 but 2 rough around the edges but golden hearted bikers (Actually the whole Hawks MC is to die for) ✅
* Some yummie MM, MF, MMF and MFM action ✅
* Nice storyline ✅
So I was wondering why did I give it a mediocre rating a year ago? Until I came at the very end of the story 🔴. My memory came back with a vengeance. Warning if you hate to know how a book ends DON’T CLICK ON THE SPOILER!
Normally I try to avoid giving away a plot or an ending in my reviews. This time I felt I had to give away some details, if you wanted to know what put me so off.
But I do think 2 stars penalty for maybe 10% of the book is to harsh and I have adjusted my rating from 3 to 4 stars.
* Vulnerable heroine but with a backbone and character ✅
* Loving friends and (foster)family ✅
* Not 1 but 2 rough around the edges but golden hearted bikers (Actually the whole Hawks MC is to die for) ✅
* Some yummie MM, MF, MMF and MFM action ✅
* Nice storyline ✅
So I was wondering why did I give it a mediocre rating a year ago? Until I came at the very end of the story 🔴. My memory came back with a vengeance. Warning if you hate to know how a book ends DON’T CLICK ON THE SPOILER!
Normally I try to avoid giving away a plot or an ending in my reviews. This time I felt I had to give away some details, if you wanted to know what put me so off.
But I do think 2 stars penalty for maybe 10% of the book is to harsh and I have adjusted my rating from 3 to 4 stars.
May 31, 2019
DNF @ 32%
One of my favorite poly books was from Lila Rose, filled with so much emotional depth & realism. I decided to give this series a try with book #1....
2 of my worst pet peeves.
Book 1 in a series means it's new to the reader. An entire series of information is dropped on the reader. I have no clue who all these characters are, but if it's from another series, it's now spoiled for me (their ending) All the important character building must have happened in those other books, when it was needed in this one.
Vapid. Shallow. Emotionless. Acting out of human nature. The author telling the reader of abuses yet never shows it... so what? In your face Insta-love, while being told how in love they are, when I just met the characters 2 pages ago. Seriously, wtf?
So much potential wasted on being as deep as a droplet of water.
Love does NOT heal abuse, surely 'insert A into B' doesn't.
I wasted $$$ I could have used on a better book, while simultaneously spoiling an entire series since this is listed as book 1, both on Goodreads & Amazon but is clearly NOT
For the love of all that is holy, STOP listing books as first in a series when they obviously are NOT!
It's not an incentive to go buy those books, because what I read was nothing but a gigantic spoiler. It turns me off from authors- this bait & switch BS.
One of my favorite poly books was from Lila Rose, filled with so much emotional depth & realism. I decided to give this series a try with book #1....
2 of my worst pet peeves.
Book 1 in a series means it's new to the reader. An entire series of information is dropped on the reader. I have no clue who all these characters are, but if it's from another series, it's now spoiled for me (their ending) All the important character building must have happened in those other books, when it was needed in this one.
Vapid. Shallow. Emotionless. Acting out of human nature. The author telling the reader of abuses yet never shows it... so what? In your face Insta-love, while being told how in love they are, when I just met the characters 2 pages ago. Seriously, wtf?
So much potential wasted on being as deep as a droplet of water.
Love does NOT heal abuse, surely 'insert A into B' doesn't.
I wasted $$$ I could have used on a better book, while simultaneously spoiling an entire series since this is listed as book 1, both on Goodreads & Amazon but is clearly NOT
For the love of all that is holy, STOP listing books as first in a series when they obviously are NOT!
It's not an incentive to go buy those books, because what I read was nothing but a gigantic spoiler. It turns me off from authors- this bait & switch BS.
September 12, 2015
Lila is an evil genius in the best way possible. This is not a typical Lila book where you are laughing every two minutes. What do you expect with Josie and Pick's background? There is still that humor in here. (ie: Deanna in labor) Be ready to have your heart hurting while reading this. She will only get more and more followers the longer she writes. (Unless she kills off a main character.) ;)
October 6, 2015
Review of The Secret’s Out by Lila Rose
Rating 4.5 Stars
I’ve been waiting for Josie’s story and hoping for her to find some happiness. The storyline was one where I found my heart hurt for Josie as she has had to be strong for so long from her time before the Hawks MC and after feeling like she needed to make it on her own, when in reality she had a family always there for her she just needed to reach out.
The trio of Josie and Pick and Eli. This was one you could see needed to happen long before it does. My only question on this story was why didn’t we see more interaction with Parker and make the boys earn it more and show Josie she was beautiful and loving and how she was a minx in disguise. But anyhow it worked out even though I would love to see a spin off with this Parker gentleman he intriques me.
Then Lila Rose does what she does so well and hit us all with a curveball that had me literally bawling my eyes out. Great story, Look forward to more.
*Reviewer for Hellmouth’s Bookblog & Reviews*
* I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.*
Rating 4.5 Stars
I’ve been waiting for Josie’s story and hoping for her to find some happiness. The storyline was one where I found my heart hurt for Josie as she has had to be strong for so long from her time before the Hawks MC and after feeling like she needed to make it on her own, when in reality she had a family always there for her she just needed to reach out.
The trio of Josie and Pick and Eli. This was one you could see needed to happen long before it does. My only question on this story was why didn’t we see more interaction with Parker and make the boys earn it more and show Josie she was beautiful and loving and how she was a minx in disguise. But anyhow it worked out even though I would love to see a spin off with this Parker gentleman he intriques me.
Then Lila Rose does what she does so well and hit us all with a curveball that had me literally bawling my eyes out. Great story, Look forward to more.
*Reviewer for Hellmouth’s Bookblog & Reviews*
* I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.*
July 8, 2019
A sweet ménage romance. A tender friends to lovers tale. A nice broken to stronger story.
This is said to be a standalone, and it is mostly. I've not read any of the other Hawks MC books and I suppose I'd recommend that a reader start at the beginning of the series. Yet, I think the author did a fine job with filling in the blanks enough when it came to side characters and past actions, without giving a whole telling v showing aspect. I didn't feel left out of the loop or annoyed at the use of summarizations for previous books.
For an MC book, one that deals with past abuses even, this wasn't dark at all. Instead, it was a slow build of trust between 3 characters that already knew each other well. I believed the push/pull between Caden and Eli - they're struggle/surrender was fab. The relationship with Josie wasn't as satisfying to me. There wasn't anything unexpected that occurred, as far as the action, but it wasn't boring either. It was overall sweet, even if I wasn't sure I got to a point of believing all 3 belonged together.
I don't usually read sweet. For me to like this...I guess that says something on its own. I probably won't read the other books in the series - just not what I want with an MC storyline - but I can definitely see this being a favorite for a lot of readers looking for something softer than the usual hardass biker books. Me...I like a hardass biker who's only a wee bit soft for the woman privileged enough to straddle his sweet ride.
This is said to be a standalone, and it is mostly. I've not read any of the other Hawks MC books and I suppose I'd recommend that a reader start at the beginning of the series. Yet, I think the author did a fine job with filling in the blanks enough when it came to side characters and past actions, without giving a whole telling v showing aspect. I didn't feel left out of the loop or annoyed at the use of summarizations for previous books.
For an MC book, one that deals with past abuses even, this wasn't dark at all. Instead, it was a slow build of trust between 3 characters that already knew each other well. I believed the push/pull between Caden and Eli - they're struggle/surrender was fab. The relationship with Josie wasn't as satisfying to me. There wasn't anything unexpected that occurred, as far as the action, but it wasn't boring either. It was overall sweet, even if I wasn't sure I got to a point of believing all 3 belonged together.
I don't usually read sweet. For me to like this...I guess that says something on its own. I probably won't read the other books in the series - just not what I want with an MC storyline - but I can definitely see this being a favorite for a lot of readers looking for something softer than the usual hardass biker books. Me...I like a hardass biker who's only a wee bit soft for the woman privileged enough to straddle his sweet ride.
March 15, 2019
3 ⭐⭐⭐ - OK decent reads.
MMF
MMF
October 6, 2015
Where to begin this review. I have been eagerly anticipating this book for like EVER! And then once I finally had it on my Kindle, I couldn't bring myself to read it.. stupid right?
However, as soon as I read that opening paragraph, I was hooked. I knew from the get go, that even though this was a Hawks MC book, it was gonna be running with a different feel, and jeez did it do that.
Billy the Kid & Pick - oh dear lord, my heart was broken for them but they never once let their pasts dictate their futures.. and Josie - my poor sweet broken Josie, when you laughed I laughed, when you cried, I cried. I felt connected with you on some messed up level.
Lila's writing, drags you in to the story so you are feeling every emotion that is coursing through the pages, 2 parts in particular had me bawling my eyes out, snotty yucky ugly crying.. and yet I would go through that again,just to be able to read The Secret's Out for the first time again.
I can quite easily say, that this book was one of my top 10 reads of the year so far, hands down - and I fully recommend getting yourself involved with the Hawks MC Club series.
However, as soon as I read that opening paragraph, I was hooked. I knew from the get go, that even though this was a Hawks MC book, it was gonna be running with a different feel, and jeez did it do that.
Billy the Kid & Pick - oh dear lord, my heart was broken for them but they never once let their pasts dictate their futures.. and Josie - my poor sweet broken Josie, when you laughed I laughed, when you cried, I cried. I felt connected with you on some messed up level.
Lila's writing, drags you in to the story so you are feeling every emotion that is coursing through the pages, 2 parts in particular had me bawling my eyes out, snotty yucky ugly crying.. and yet I would go through that again,just to be able to read The Secret's Out for the first time again.
I can quite easily say, that this book was one of my top 10 reads of the year so far, hands down - and I fully recommend getting yourself involved with the Hawks MC Club series.
October 7, 2015
LILA ROSE IS A GENIUS !! 5 paltry stars aren't enough for this whatsoever !!!!
Talk about an emotional rollercoaster geez !!! I've already read about these characters in the Hawk's MC series luckily so know some of their background, and knowing what Josie had gone through tore at my heart when i read it in them but catching up with her, in this, seeing how affected she was by it still, that broke me. She's still not good with other people touching her, especially not strangers but there's a select few who she's fine with. But when her family, Hawk's mc, hear that she's being hassled and Talon, the prez of the mc sends 2 brothers to help out, that's when we see a new side of her. Yes Pick and Billy are alpha, bad ass bikers but when Josie's with them they turn into softies unless someone makes a play for "their woman" and then the caveman in each of them comes out. There's a hell of a lot of twists and turns some of which really will throw you for a loop !!It will at times have you breaking your heart so get the tissues ready. And WOAHHHHHHH !! PASS THE FAN !!!! The sexy scenes were so hot i'm surprised my kindle didn't melt !!!
Absolutely loved it !!!!
Talk about an emotional rollercoaster geez !!! I've already read about these characters in the Hawk's MC series luckily so know some of their background, and knowing what Josie had gone through tore at my heart when i read it in them but catching up with her, in this, seeing how affected she was by it still, that broke me. She's still not good with other people touching her, especially not strangers but there's a select few who she's fine with. But when her family, Hawk's mc, hear that she's being hassled and Talon, the prez of the mc sends 2 brothers to help out, that's when we see a new side of her. Yes Pick and Billy are alpha, bad ass bikers but when Josie's with them they turn into softies unless someone makes a play for "their woman" and then the caveman in each of them comes out. There's a hell of a lot of twists and turns some of which really will throw you for a loop !!It will at times have you breaking your heart so get the tissues ready. And WOAHHHHHHH !! PASS THE FAN !!!! The sexy scenes were so hot i'm surprised my kindle didn't melt !!!
Absolutely loved it !!!!
January 22, 2017
I have no idea what I read to be honest...
I am not a ménage reader so that made it a worse read. I disliked Josie as heroine.
The characters is liked because of the attributes and she had none, well except winning...
I din't understand the "romance" between the 3 characters but what put me off was the "love" between the male characters. Calling brother a guy after having his d..k in his mouth...that is plain wrong.
I need some time to recover after this story considering that there was not much to it....
I am not a ménage reader so that made it a worse read. I disliked Josie as heroine.
The characters is liked because of the attributes and she had none, well except winning...
I din't understand the "romance" between the 3 characters but what put me off was the "love" between the male characters. Calling brother a guy after having his d..k in his mouth...that is plain wrong.
I need some time to recover after this story considering that there was not much to it....
October 11, 2016
4 Stars!!!
May 13, 2019
**Review of the audiobook**
STORY: 5 Stars
PERFORMANCE: 4 Stars
OVERALL: 4.5 Stars
STORY
Pick (Caden) was abused, neglected and literally sold in order for his drug addict mother to maintain her high when he was a child. Now he works for Talin, President of The Hawks MC. I kept waiting for more details on this but they never came and they were not told in the Hawks MC series either.
At 18 Josie moved out to go to University.
She soon has a bad experience with a man named Cameron. Unfortunately, this was not Josie first bad experience with men, it exacerbating the issues she already has regarding being touched etc. When Josie‘s roommate becomes concerned about her, she tells Josie’s mom who then calls Josie’s biker brother-in-law Talin. Talin can’t personally come himself, yet he sends Pick and Billy to make sure Josie is okay and deal with whoever is harassing her. Coincidentally, both Billie and Pick are estranged due to their shared love of Josie...
Their reunion is soooo soooo soo sexy!!!! I loved the dynamic between these three individually and as a polyamorous couple.
PERFORMANCE
I listened to the Audible audiobook narrated by Tarny Evans and Paul Casteri. Casteri does a phenomenal, 5-star job but I had a very difficult time listening to Evans’ portions as her pacing was beyond infuriating!!! Evans reads/speaks at a normal speed then leaves huge, looooong, irritating gaps of silence between each sentence which unfortunately can’t be adjusted by speeding up or slowing down an audiobook reader. In addition, Evans does not attempt to alter her voice when speaking for male characters, using the same female voice for everyone.
STORY: 5 Stars
PERFORMANCE: 4 Stars
OVERALL: 4.5 Stars
STORY
Pick (Caden) was abused, neglected and literally sold in order for his drug addict mother to maintain her high when he was a child. Now he works for Talin, President of The Hawks MC. I kept waiting for more details on this but they never came and they were not told in the Hawks MC series either.
At 18 Josie moved out to go to University.
She soon has a bad experience with a man named Cameron. Unfortunately, this was not Josie first bad experience with men, it exacerbating the issues she already has regarding being touched etc. When Josie‘s roommate becomes concerned about her, she tells Josie’s mom who then calls Josie’s biker brother-in-law Talin. Talin can’t personally come himself, yet he sends Pick and Billy to make sure Josie is okay and deal with whoever is harassing her. Coincidentally, both Billie and Pick are estranged due to their shared love of Josie...
Their reunion is soooo soooo soo sexy!!!! I loved the dynamic between these three individually and as a polyamorous couple.
PERFORMANCE
I listened to the Audible audiobook narrated by Tarny Evans and Paul Casteri. Casteri does a phenomenal, 5-star job but I had a very difficult time listening to Evans’ portions as her pacing was beyond infuriating!!! Evans reads/speaks at a normal speed then leaves huge, looooong, irritating gaps of silence between each sentence which unfortunately can’t be adjusted by speeding up or slowing down an audiobook reader. In addition, Evans does not attempt to alter her voice when speaking for male characters, using the same female voice for everyone.
May 21, 2017
Great way to start off the newest Hawks MC Charter series! Really liked the characters, the overall plot line & the promise of things to come for the members in Caroline Springs.
The sexual tension & full-on sex in this one was ON FIRE! Love the connections between Eli/Billy & Josie, Caden/Pick & Josie and Eli/Billy & Caden/Pick. And between all three... *le sigh*
But I've gotta say... why oh, why was it necessary to kill off THAT character?! In my last review (Coming Out, #4.5 in the Hawks MC: Ballarat Charter) I gushed all over this person & their partner! Gah!! *insert ugly cry emoji face here*
Chomping at the bit for Nary & Saxon's story (yes, I realize I don't get it til book #4) but am still looking forward to the next book in the series, Hiding Out, which features Dodge!
Side note: Still am curious on how Zara & Talon "gifted" Julian & Mattie with a baby... What can I say? I'm a #detailswh*re. :)
The sexual tension & full-on sex in this one was ON FIRE! Love the connections between Eli/Billy & Josie, Caden/Pick & Josie and Eli/Billy & Caden/Pick. And between all three... *le sigh*
But I've gotta say... why oh, why was it necessary to kill off THAT character?! In my last review (Coming Out, #4.5 in the Hawks MC: Ballarat Charter) I gushed all over this person & their partner! Gah!! *insert ugly cry emoji face here*
Chomping at the bit for Nary & Saxon's story (yes, I realize I don't get it til book #4) but am still looking forward to the next book in the series, Hiding Out, which features Dodge!
Side note: Still am curious on how Zara & Talon "gifted" Julian & Mattie with a baby... What can I say? I'm a #detailswh*re. :)
March 24, 2017
I enjoyed it!
Josie is trying to learn to be a "grown up" in university. She was doing well until someone decide to become her tormentor and pulled his friends into the bullying. Thank goodness for a great roommate that lets her family know that she needs some help....and it gives our guys the perfect opportunity to show back up in Josie's life. I really liked Caden and Eli and I got to say the "scenes" featuring the two of them are hot! I thought is was cute seeing Josie become a minx. The guys are they for a reason and it has an unexpected connection to one of our guys. We get love, drama and say goodbye to a beloved character in this story. Who you ask, guess you need to read it to find out....all I can say is I'm relieved there was an epilogue!!!.
Josie is trying to learn to be a "grown up" in university. She was doing well until someone decide to become her tormentor and pulled his friends into the bullying. Thank goodness for a great roommate that lets her family know that she needs some help....and it gives our guys the perfect opportunity to show back up in Josie's life. I really liked Caden and Eli and I got to say the "scenes" featuring the two of them are hot! I thought is was cute seeing Josie become a minx. The guys are they for a reason and it has an unexpected connection to one of our guys. We get love, drama and say goodbye to a beloved character in this story. Who you ask, guess you need to read it to find out....all I can say is I'm relieved there was an epilogue!!!.
February 13, 2018
Great read
I really like these biker books, they're so fun and intense and hot. Caden and Eli were so perfect, what girl wouldn't die to have them both? And I really liked Simone, she was a good friend and not irritating or over the top. I also liked that we got to see Josie's family and update about them. There was a really sad part that had me crying. The plot moved at a good pace and the story was fun to read.
I really like these biker books, they're so fun and intense and hot. Caden and Eli were so perfect, what girl wouldn't die to have them both? And I really liked Simone, she was a good friend and not irritating or over the top. I also liked that we got to see Josie's family and update about them. There was a really sad part that had me crying. The plot moved at a good pace and the story was fun to read.
March 11, 2018
Hmm... I had a really hard time with this one. I felt that the “Love” between the guys felt very forced in this book. I have ready many ménage stories and I guess I’m just used to and wanting the love between the guys to be just as grand if not more than with the h. I absolutely loved the hawks mc series and had high hopes for this one. I think I’ll take a break before starting the next in the series.
January 14, 2018
Loved it
Wow!! Lila you are amazing. My emotions was every were. I never laughted and cried so much. I'm. So happy Cade, Eli and Joisia got their HEA.
Wow!! Lila you are amazing. My emotions was every were. I never laughted and cried so much. I'm. So happy Cade, Eli and Joisia got their HEA.
January 20, 2018
This book was cute and sweet and OH SO HOT! I dont know if this is a popular opinion, but its mine, and thats the point of goodreads, isnt it? To share our opinions.
I really liked the way the three characters grew by themselves and with each other. I just would've liked a little bit more action, and maybe more interaction between the three of them outside the bedroom, because inside, it was explosive!
Caden and Eli were good complements of each other and the fit well with Josie and her understandable shortcomings. I know the story might be far fetched but it was fun and entertaining, which is what I look for in books like this. Im definitely checking the rest of this author.
I just have one complain story-wise: the ending was lacking! I wanted more!!! Like I said, more action, maybe more interaction among them (especially the two male characters)...
I really liked the way the three characters grew by themselves and with each other. I just would've liked a little bit more action, and maybe more interaction between the three of them outside the bedroom, because inside, it was explosive!
Caden and Eli were good complements of each other and the fit well with Josie and her understandable shortcomings. I know the story might be far fetched but it was fun and entertaining, which is what I look for in books like this. Im definitely checking the rest of this author.
I just have one complain story-wise: the ending was lacking! I wanted more!!! Like I said, more action, maybe more interaction among them (especially the two male characters)...
February 21, 2018
Audible
January 13, 2020
DNF 30%.
May 15, 2018
so loving this amazing series.Love Josie Cafe and Eli amazing beautiful very emotional sweet love story.cannt wait for Dodge book
June 12, 2021
Fantastic!
This book really brought it all intrigue, excitement, romance and fear. But over all else the book was about healing and about three broken souls Who made each other whole together.
This book really brought it all intrigue, excitement, romance and fear. But over all else the book was about healing and about three broken souls Who made each other whole together.
October 9, 2015
Ok we are going to duck and hide for a minute, this was our first introduction to the Hawks MC and its left us wanting to know more! We are going to have to play a bit of catch up and read the previous books asap.
Lila Rose sure knows how to pack a punch in her books. The Secret's Out will pull at your heart strings, make you laugh and have you on edge at times. We felt like we were being pulled every which way, in a good way. This book is about three beautiful people who have each endured pain, abuse and heartache. Together they find a way to mend each other, separately and together they are the light to each other's dark.
Josie Alexander has been away from her family for the past two years at Melbourne University. She has missed her family but wants to prove to herself that she can succeed on her own. Josie shares a place with her friend Simone, house sitting for Parker who is rarely around.
Uni is going great until she attracts unwanted attention from Cameron a guy who won't take no for an answer or leave her alone. Every day he finds a new way to torment her, days turn into weeks and weeks into months, Josie is no longer the girls she once was and has started to shut down. That is until Simone receives a call that changes everything...
Caden aka Pick is a member of the Hawks MC, life hasn't been easy for him, he's learnt some lessons the hard way. Now he’s found a family with joining an MC, he would do anything to protect them. Pick had a horrific and tormented childhood, he was raised by a drug addict mother who did indescribable things to him. The only good thing in Pick's life are his club and the woman he and Billy have had their eyes on for a long time, Josie.
Billy aka Eli is a ladies man, getting his fill from the women who throw themselves at him. Deep down he only wants one woman, Josie.
Pick and Billy have been ordered to head to Melbourne and deal with Josie's problem. Tension between Pick and Billy is still thick, hardly muttering words to each other since Josie left and well that one night... Both want the best for Josie and as much as they care for her they would never want her to choose between them.
Pick and Billy arriving in Melbourne and seeing Josie again changes everything for all of them. They will do whatever it takes to protect Josie from her tormentor. What Pick didn't count on was having to fight his own demons at the same time...
Just when you think life is running smooth for Josie, Pick and Billy think again because Lila sure knows how you sneak up and pack a punch!
Lila Rose sure knows how to pack a punch in her books. The Secret's Out will pull at your heart strings, make you laugh and have you on edge at times. We felt like we were being pulled every which way, in a good way. This book is about three beautiful people who have each endured pain, abuse and heartache. Together they find a way to mend each other, separately and together they are the light to each other's dark.
Josie Alexander has been away from her family for the past two years at Melbourne University. She has missed her family but wants to prove to herself that she can succeed on her own. Josie shares a place with her friend Simone, house sitting for Parker who is rarely around.
Uni is going great until she attracts unwanted attention from Cameron a guy who won't take no for an answer or leave her alone. Every day he finds a new way to torment her, days turn into weeks and weeks into months, Josie is no longer the girls she once was and has started to shut down. That is until Simone receives a call that changes everything...
Caden aka Pick is a member of the Hawks MC, life hasn't been easy for him, he's learnt some lessons the hard way. Now he’s found a family with joining an MC, he would do anything to protect them. Pick had a horrific and tormented childhood, he was raised by a drug addict mother who did indescribable things to him. The only good thing in Pick's life are his club and the woman he and Billy have had their eyes on for a long time, Josie.
Billy aka Eli is a ladies man, getting his fill from the women who throw themselves at him. Deep down he only wants one woman, Josie.
Pick and Billy have been ordered to head to Melbourne and deal with Josie's problem. Tension between Pick and Billy is still thick, hardly muttering words to each other since Josie left and well that one night... Both want the best for Josie and as much as they care for her they would never want her to choose between them.
Pick and Billy arriving in Melbourne and seeing Josie again changes everything for all of them. They will do whatever it takes to protect Josie from her tormentor. What Pick didn't count on was having to fight his own demons at the same time...
Just when you think life is running smooth for Josie, Pick and Billy think again because Lila sure knows how you sneak up and pack a punch!
March 5, 2016
Review by: Jennifer
(5 stars)
So this is actually the story I have been waiting on for what seems like forever now. This is part of a series, returning character's and references to past happenings, meaning, please read the previous books before this, or you might find yourself dazed and confused, LOL.
So we met Josie back in book one, and we knew going into this book that she has major issues due to the events of her past. But she is stronger then she knows and is overcoming her fears....for the most part.
Pick and Billy, both members of the Hawks MC and both have their eye on Josie...but they also have a secret. How will everyone respond and most importantly what about Josie?
I sooo want to give more, I really do but I won't, seeing as my bestie hasn't read it yet and that's not fair to her. I will say this had some freaking awesome sexy time. I do have one complaint though; I wanted a lil more Billy and Pick action but that's just me. With an ending that you don't see coming (seriously I cried), drama and a bit of violence this was an awesome read. I give it 5 stars.
(5 stars)
So this is actually the story I have been waiting on for what seems like forever now. This is part of a series, returning character's and references to past happenings, meaning, please read the previous books before this, or you might find yourself dazed and confused, LOL.
So we met Josie back in book one, and we knew going into this book that she has major issues due to the events of her past. But she is stronger then she knows and is overcoming her fears....for the most part.
Pick and Billy, both members of the Hawks MC and both have their eye on Josie...but they also have a secret. How will everyone respond and most importantly what about Josie?
I sooo want to give more, I really do but I won't, seeing as my bestie hasn't read it yet and that's not fair to her. I will say this had some freaking awesome sexy time. I do have one complaint though; I wanted a lil more Billy and Pick action but that's just me. With an ending that you don't see coming (seriously I cried), drama and a bit of violence this was an awesome read. I give it 5 stars.
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