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Malibu Sights #2

Malibu Secrets

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On the verge of losing the Malibu home she inherited from her great-aunt, Addi Dekker is completely failing to prove to her family she can make it as a writer. Not exactly how a girl proves her independence. If she doesn’t want to give up her dream and go back to the soul-sucking job she just left, Addi has to swallow her dislike of Hollywood and rent the house out to the sexy-as-hell film producer.

And maybe (shhhh!) save money by secretly living there, too.

Roque Gallagher is pouring his heart and savings into his first independent film to make the industry acknowledge him for his talent and not just his family name. Addi’s home is perfect for the shoot, but she’s far too tempting. He’s never been able to handle work and a relationship, and this is the film of a lifetime. Between a shrinking budget and his director quitting, the last thing he needs is a sexy-as-sin tease like Addi. And he has a feeling there's something she's hiding...

Paperback

Published December 14, 2015

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About the author

M.K. Meredith

20 books362 followers
I write single title contemporary romance novels, promising an emotional ride on heated sheets. As a member of several writing groups, I believe the best route to success is to never stop learning.

I've had a lifelong love affair with peanut butter -- the only two things coming close in the battle for my affections are gorgeous heels, and maybe Gerard Butler...or was it David Gandy? Who am I kidding? My true loves are my husband and two children who have survived my SEA's (spontaneous explosions of affection) and lived to tell the tale.

I've been reading romance long before I should have and can’t think of anything better than to fill my life with the promise of happily-ever-afters.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
Profile Image for April Symes.
5,013 reviews449 followers
December 13, 2015
The two main characters in the story will make you sit up and take notice. What you have is a romance between Addi, a romance novelist, and Roque, an independent filmmaker . Addi quit her corporate job to write romance novels but money is running very low and the house she inherited from her great aunt is in foreclosure and she wants to keep it so she desperately needs money. She cannot go to her family because they would say she couldn’t do it without their help so they would be her last option..which means never. In comes Roque who w ants to rent the house for a movie. She gets it put into the contract that they cover her expenses and move her into a hotel during the time the movie is made—but what they do not know is she secretly lives in the attic –the whys are secretly admirable and part of the story.
Now alittle about Roque—he is a workaholic and all the costs he is coming out of pocket for himself since he is doing this film independently. He finds whenever he interacts with Addi, he finds he is attracted to her. The rest of the book goes somewhat predictably and I loved how the story ended. There is some drama, some emotional drama and some really enchaining moments that will have you believing in love.
My rating: 4.0 stars ****
***A gifted copy was provided by the publication for my honest review**
Profile Image for Elaine - Splashes Into Books.
3,900 reviews139 followers
December 11, 2015
This is a delightful contemporary romance where going for your dreams sometimes makes you lose focus on just what you should do…. and what you really shouldn't!

Addison Dekker is the youngest Dekker sibling and she’s fed up of being the one they all expect to need rescuing, the baby of the family. She inherited her beloved home from her great aunt and namesake. That was the impetus for Addie to give up her job and go all out on her dream to be a novelist. Unfortunately things aren’t going quite as planned, taxes have a way of severely impacting on plans and now she’s in danger of losing her home to foreclosure. That’s when Roque Gallagher comes to call, wanting to use her home as the set for the film he’s making and willing to pay well to do so. To save her home, she’s going to set the terms - which include him giving her a job and paying for her to stay at a high class hotel, even though she plans on banking that money and secretly staying in her home. She doesn’t initially realise he’s bankrolling the deal, except then his major backer pulls out. Although the attraction between them is mutual, the lies and dreams keep getting in the way…..

Although this is the second book in the series it still works brilliantly as a standalone - I haven’t read the first one and still found this one a great read. The main thing running throughout this story are the emotions of the characters, which are portrayed brilliantly, their ambitions, fears, desires and turmoil making them easy to empathise with. Both main characters are focussed on achieving their ambitions, neither have time, inclination or any desire for a relationship but their mutual attraction has other ideas!

It is an entertaining, well written romance, one that it is a delight to escape into and I hope to read others in this series in future!

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for this, an honest review.
Profile Image for Wendy'sThoughts.
2,670 reviews3,288 followers
Read
November 16, 2015
Missed my Mark

Entangled has a terrific reputation for engaging reads. Unfortunately this did not connect with me due to specific reasons. I am sure the story will entertain many and others should give it a go.
Profile Image for Chris  C - A Midlife Wife.
1,855 reviews468 followers
December 8, 2015
There are some stories that you read that you know are just going to have you holding your breath waiting for something bad to happen. This story is based on a big, fat lie and you just know it is going to be a heartbreaking read... Every page I turned I was waiting for the shoe to drop. And when it did, I think my heart broke a little bit too.

Oh, the emotions that were running around on this story! The author really put it out there with her indepth descriptions and deeply connected characters. I shed a few tears trying to get through to what I hoped was an HEA.... and thankfully it was there. We just have to wait until nearly the end for it.

I was impressed by the depth of emotional writing, heartfelt love and steamy hot scenes that the author shared in this new release I was thrilled to review. Fabulous work that will not be soon forgotten! Definitely an author we will see more from in the future!
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews872 followers
December 14, 2015
Slick's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

There was a lot to like about MK Meredith's Malibu Secrets including engaging characters, an entertaining plot and an emotional love story. This author's ability to draw the reader into the story and make them feel a part of it is incredible; I often felt like I was right with these characters and a part of their struggles as they created their Indie film.

Addison (Addie) Dekker is close to losing the home her aunt left to her if she can't make some fast cash. Quitting her job to become a writer probably wasn't her best idea and while it was going well for awhile, she hasn't been able to hook an agent to sell any manuscripts. So when Hollywood comes knocking wanting to rent her home out for a shoot; she decides to take some of Hollywood's big money and save her home and give herself some breathing room for a year or so and hopefully realize her dreams. Most of all Addie wants to prove to her family that she can take care of herself.

Roque Gallagher really doesn't want to hire Addie to be a part of his project, but in order to use her house he must give her a job. Finding out that she's more than competent is a plus and despite he feels she's hiding something he can't help but be intrigued by her. Everything Roque has is tied up in this project and to top it off he feels he much get it made in his mother's honor.

I enjoyed the verbal sparring and the bit of cat and mouse these two played with each other. While there was this heat between them, I was glad they got to know one another better before acting on it. I think they both gained really good insight into the other during their friendship phase, but it also made Addie nervous given the huge secret she was keeping from Roque. I won't say I agree with what Addie did, but I could also understand why she felt she had no choice. I was a bit disappointed in Roque's initial reaction and a bit bummed that Addie never got the chance to make him see that while she had remorse for her actions she HAD tried to come clean with him several times but each time she wasn't able to do so because of his actions.

I was fascinated by the life on the set and everything that had to fall into place each and every day to get this film made. Addie went out of her way to make sure Roque got the chance to finish his project which again made it so disappointing when he was being a stubborn a$$ towards her. I was so impressed with how easily Addie immersed herself into her work as Roque's assistant and tackled each task with little help or direction from anyone and I was so proud of her when she stood up for herself with her family.

I enjoyed Malibu Secrets; there were enough light hearted moments and fun to temper the moments when I wanted to scream at the characters for being a bit pig-headed.

Review copy provided for an honest review.
Profile Image for Lori.
1,113 reviews2 followers
December 14, 2015
This was a great story of making it on your own, proving your self and learning to trust. Roque (whose name and spelling I love) and Addi seemed to have the same issues of wanting to be successful on their own accord and not via their family name. Their initial meeting was pretty funny. Throughout the book, their flirtation and innuendos were not only hilarious, but highly entertaining. I thoroughly enjoyed their seductive games. But with that, I liked how they got to know each other and told their secrets to one a other. They had a really intimate relationship even without the hotness. I liked both characters and felt so much sympathy to Roque during his sad times. I loved the way they connected and the meddlings of Raquel and Martin. This was a very strong family oriented story that had such warm feelings throughout its entirety. I am definitely ready for the next installment of this series.

I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the publisher.
Profile Image for Pamela Johnson.
25 reviews2 followers
November 4, 2015
Hold on to your hearts, fellow readers. I was honored to receive the ARC of Malibu Secrets to read and review. I couldn't put the book down and melted into a large puddle when the story ended. This author puts herself heart and soul into the story and you will be living not just reading it. A wonderful story set in Malibu, CA, I enjoyed every line and I think you will also.
Profile Image for Marie Andersson.
Author 13 books118 followers
November 15, 2017
I really enjoyed this story!:)It was fun and hot!Addi was fun and Roque was sexy.Sigh!
Profile Image for Kristine.
779 reviews16 followers
December 6, 2015
Original review can be found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
3.5 stars

** I received an advanced readers copy from Entangled Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!**

Malibu Secrets is the second book in the Malibu Sights series. I did not get the chance to read the first book before reading it but it in no way impacted my enjoyment. This book is Addi's story where the first book was her sister Sam's story. There are recurring characters but the focus is on different characters.

Addi was at risk of losing the home and in doing so, proving to her family what they already thought. They thought she was reckless and immature and unable to look after herself. She was desperate to prove them wrong and to keep the house that had such sentimental meaning to her. When hunky film producer Roque Gallagher approached her about renting her house to him for his film set she saw an opportunity to fix all of her problems. She negotiated a deal that had him paying for her to stay at a fancy hotel and that also gave her a job on the film. By sleeping in the attic and pocketing the money for the hotel, along with the rental income, she would be able to get her house out of foreclosure without asking anyone for help. She thought Hollywood would never miss the money and her little lie would hurt nobody. Little did she know that Roque was doing the film independently and all financial costs and losses were on him. A workaholic, he was determined to succeed on his own without the help of his famous family name. He was a man who worked hard and trusted very little with no time to waste on relationships. Neither one of them expected that a mutual attraction would develop between them and that their pasts and secrets could destroy them.

It took me a little while to get into this book. I found it dragged a bit in the beginning and I was a little worried. The relationship between Addi and Roque was slow to develop both professionally and personally and I have to admit that it had me a bit concerned. I stayed with it and I was thankful that I did because it did pick up, things progressed to my liking and I found myself engrossed. Once the story picked up the pace I was able to feel the chemistry between the two of them and found myself in their corner. Fans of hot and steamy will be happy to know that there was plenty of it to go around. Lets just say that the sexy time was pretty darn sexy!

The plot was somewhat predictable but enjoyable all the same. It is a contemporary romance after all and I think readers might not be too happy if it played out any other way. Even though I had a fair idea of the direction it was going, I still found myself getting emotional a few times. What can I say? I'm a sucker for a good romance.

I enjoyed this book enough that I will probably go back and read the first book in the series and any that are written after this one. Solid writing, great characters and great love stories will always have me coming back for more.

**Afterthought**
I absolutely hated the name Roque and the spelling of it. I found myself tripping over the name every time I read it.
Very cute book cover!
Profile Image for BookSnuggle.
1,234 reviews4 followers
January 7, 2016
"Malibu Secrets" by MK Meredith is book two in the "Malibu Sights" series. This can be read as a standalone. This Addie Dekker and Roque Gallagher's story.

Addie quit her boring dependable job to become a writer. She is struggling to keep the home, she inherited from her great-aunt. If something doesn't give, she will have to sell the home. Roque is a film producer that wants to rent Addie's home for a film he is producing. At first Addie isn't interested, but then figures it is the only way to save her home. She also comes up with a plan to secretly live in the house and save the money allocated for her housing while the house is being rented.

Addie and Roque come to an agreement for renting her house for the film he is producing.

The chemistry between Addie and Roque is amazing. It takes a little time for them to act on it, but the attraction is too strong for them to ignore. There are some really steamy scenes.

She feels guilty about her little secret. She justifies it by saying I'm noting hurting anyone the money is coming from Hollywood not a person. How will Addie react when she finds out it's not money from Hollywood, but that Roque has invested his savings into this project? How will Roque react when he finds out Addie's secret?

Addie and Roque both have lots of issues that they are working through. Will these issues or Addie's secret prevent them from taking a chance on true love?

The reader can really feel the emotions of the characters. I really enjoyed the book. This was an enjoyable read!

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley/Entangled Publishing, for an honest review.
https://booksnuggle.wordpress.com

My other reviews of MK Meredith's books:
https://booksnuggle.wordpress.com//?s...
Profile Image for Deborah.
971 reviews4 followers
December 16, 2015
This is a romance between Addi, a romance novelist, and Roque, an independent filmmaker. Addi quit her corporate job to write full time and she's having trouble paying the bills. The house she inherited from her great aunt is now in foreclosure and she needs money in order to keep it. Her family has always thought she couldn't fend for herself so she doesn't want to ask for their help. Roque wants to rent the house for a movie and Addi begrudgingly agrees. If she moved out she would have no where to live so she writes in the contract that they cover her expense to stay in a hotel. She decides to pocket the money and secretly sleep in the attic. She figures she can get the house out of foreclosure that much faster.

Roque is a workaholic. He is doing his film independently and all costs are his costs. When he finds he's attracted to Addi, he's not sure how to react-he doesn't do relationships. You can guess how the story builds from here.

Although the plot was a bit predictable, I enjoyed the story. It's a good romance when it can tug at your heartstrings! The courtship was a very slow burn but thankfully picked up. When it did, the chemistry was searing and I was a fan of these two. There are some super sexy scenes to boot!

Malibu Secrets is my first book by M.K. Meredith and I really liked her writing. Her characters were likeable and believable and the story was convincing and uplifting. Overall the story was engaging and I felt happy reading it.

3.5 stars/3.5 flames

I was gifted this book for the express purpose of an honest review. The rating and review are solely my opinion and in no way was I compensated.
Profile Image for Pavitra (For The Love of Fictional Worlds).
1,321 reviews80 followers
December 13, 2015
I received an eARC of the Book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

The blurb had me really excited for this book - though I do tend to shy away from anything celebrity related - mostly because I never think I will be able to connect to the characters and that is exactly what happened with this book!

This is the second book in the series, and while it can be read as standalone, I would have preferred to read the first book before reading this one - because the author plunges us into a story wit characters that have already been introduced, so it took a while to get used to to the world.

Addi, the heroine, is a hard character to like, not because she is unlikable, but because she is really really impulsive and flighty - and never really thinks of the consequences of her decisions on others.

Roque has a point to prove - and is trying really hard to prove it. I loved his character, he is staedfast, gruff and yet very loyal to people he cares about and Addi soon beomes one of them, if not the first on that list.

Another reason why I couldn't like Addi - she knew with Roque having told her, indirectly the consequences of her actions yet instead of actually communicating her problems, she went ahead and tried to have her cake and eat it too! Never a successful combination.

I liked the writing style though - funny when required and angsty when desired - the writing was the foundation yet it was one half of the structure that actually made the story wobble this time.

For more book recommendations, don't forget to visit - For The Love of Fictional Worlds :)
Profile Image for Lynn Brooks.
3,586 reviews45 followers
December 18, 2015
Funny, sweet, quirky, sexy ... what more could you ask for?

If you like to have fun reading a book, this one is a "can't miss"! I found myself grinning constantly at the banter between the characters and several times chuckling out loud. I adore Addi and Roque (who I affectionately nicknamed ROGUE because no matter how much I knew it was ROCK, I just couldn't stop reading it the other way in my mind) ... don't worry, he loves my nickname for him *wink* ... I would love to see more of them ... c'monnnnnn sequel! :)

Addison Dekker is in a pickle! She's about to lose the house her great-aunt left her because her romance writing career hasn't taken off yet and she doesn't have the money for her expenses. She just can't go back to boring old corporate america when her dream is so close to being in reach!

Roque Gallagher is producing a movie that he is risking his everything on. His reputation, his pride, his savings ... he HAS to succeed. When he shows up at Addi's door wanting to film his movie there, it's the answer to everyone's problems. He'll get his movie made, and she'll get the rental money to get her out of foreclosure.
No one counts on the hot chemistry running amok between them. She coerces him into hiring her to help out, and having her under foot every day is more than he can handle. When they decide to stop tiptoeing around each other and to enjoy instead, will it bring a happily ever after into the picture? Or will Addi's secret keeping ruin everything?

** Received free in exchange for an honest review **
Profile Image for Amy.
309 reviews7 followers
December 14, 2015
This is the second book in the Malibu Sights stories. It can be read as a stand alone though.

Addison "Addi" Dekker is in trouble. She is about to lose her great-aunt's home that was left to her. Roque Gallagher needs Addi's house to shoot his film. He offers to pay Addi to use her house and Addi agrees. Both of them have big dreams and don't have time for a relationship. Fate or possibly Aunt Raquel disagrees! :)

Addi is lying and keeping a big secret from Roque so the whole time I was just waiting for her secret to blow up in her face. That kept me turning pages as fast as I could! I loved the chemistry between Roque and Addi and the love scenes were hot! The supporting characters were amazing too and I hope they will be getting their own stories.

I would definitely recommend this book and I can't wait for more books from MK Meredith!
Profile Image for Bette Hansen.
5,073 reviews40 followers
December 7, 2015
While I'm not much for the "Hollywood" based stories, this one sounded intriguing and I'm glad I gave it a shot. It was an amazing read and while the movie industry is the backdrop for the story, the real focus is on Addi and Roque and the slow developing relationship between these two. Both have family issues that drive them to prove themselves. Neither really has the time or desire for a relationship but the attraction between them is too hard to fight. Can they find a way??

This is a very well written and highly entertaining book. I would definitely recommend it.
Profile Image for Beyond the Pages with Eva K.
3,186 reviews170 followers
December 24, 2015
This book started a bit too slow, in my opinion. I was so frustrated with the pacing that I almost put it down. I persevered, however, and made it all the way to the end. While I did not love this story, I didn't totally dislike it. It was okay.

Rating: 2.5/5
Recommend: +/--
Audience: Adult
Status: Contemporary Romance
Conflict/Drama/ Yes (mild)
Chemistry/Intensity: +/-

NetGalley ARC
Profile Image for Vicki  Rose.
55 reviews19 followers
February 24, 2016
Another fantastic novel by the always-amazing MK Meredith! Addi's determined to to make it, despite any setbacks & that makes me adore this character! Add in some uber-sexy Roque & this story just brought out the sexy! Simpy a stunning, well-written, heart-stopping sexy novel! Kudos to Ms. Meredith! ~Vicki Rose
Platinum Book Reviews & Promotions gives Malibu Secrets: 5 Platinum Rings!
Profile Image for Kristen Johnson.
1,174 reviews48 followers
December 14, 2015
Addi is tired of what others think about her. She has big plans for her life, for who she wants to be and what she wants to do, but feels that no one believes in her or sees how important this is to her. She's tired of everyone treating her as if she can't handle things, like a pampered infant to be taken care of, but not able to care for herself. And yes, she's made mistakes, but she's learned from them and she wants to do better. She wants to prove to herself, and her family and friends that she can be who she is and she doesn't need them to put down her dreams or mistakes, but instead love her for who she is and let her be Addi.
Roque's got his own secrets in a way. His current project HAS to be a success, because he's put his all in to it and basically his future hinges on this project. He wants to prove that he can be a success without depending on his name and the connections it affords him.
I love that both Addi and Rogue initially have thoughts about the other that they have formed simply from listening to others or from perceptions based on the hollywood world around them. It made their connection that much more real because it sort of forced them to actually know the other, to learn what they really were not who society said they were.
When making arrangements for her house, Addi makes plans and stipulations and they sort of back fire on her. Roque expected Addi to pretty much fall at his feet and give in to his demands for the house, and when she didn't, he could respect her, but it also bothered him. I really enjoyed their private thoughts during these exchanges because it told us so much about them and what they were getting into. Foreshadowing if you will.

One theme in this book not related to the romance aspect, is the way our family treats us and how others treat us because of our family. Malibu Secrets shows us two very different takes on how family has affected the main characters lives. For Addi, it's about how often our families mean well, but often do things out of misguided thoughts and end up hurting us. For Rogue it is about finding his place in the world and standing on his own two feet and not being thought of as 'Just another Gallagher'. He wants to work hard and earn what he gets, not be handed things just because of who he is.

Malibu Secrets is On point with following Malibu Betrayals, each book in the series shows the same strengths while diving into different topics and pulling out different emotions. I love the way MK Meredith handles the secrecy in her books, she writes it just so you are pulled in with curiousity but she doesn't withhold the details from you for very long, instead trickles them out as the story progresses.

Malibu Secrets really gets your heart and mind pumping, dealing with this emotion and that, watching as Roque and Addi struggle trying to prove themselves right and show the world (and their families and friends) just what they can accomplish. But also watching as they tried to not dive into the depth of their connection, to not become overwhelmed by the other that they slacked in their goals. MK Meredith really drags you through it, waiting to see what is going to happen, a will they/won't they type of story, but of course, we finally end up with an HEA.
The writing throughout the story is wonderful, the characters have the ability to pull you in, to feel what they feel inadequacies, fear, hurt, and most of all a worry that they will fail. The story is quick moving, but nothing feels out of place or rushed. I love the emotions MK brings to the surface, and the way she's able to pull so many details into her words without feeling redundant or hanging in mid place.

*I was given a copy for review*
Profile Image for Kate Anders.
Author 2 books24 followers
December 20, 2015
To read this review and others like it check out my site at www.homelovebooks.com

So this is book 2 in the series, but it's totally a stand alone, so don't feel like you can't pick up this book without reading the first. I really liked the concept of this book, mostly because our heroine is kind of at a breaking point, her life is pretty much standing on the edge of a cliff, she's about to lose her house, her career is going no where, and her family is just waiting for her to fail again so she will have to move back home. And of course add in an element of movie stars and Hollywood, and you definitely have an interesting dynamic for a book.

So I liked Addi a lot. I think it is going to be easy for just about anyone to kind of see yourself in her, I mean we all have times where were are feeling a little bit directionless. So Addi's sister just got married to a movie star, and while at the wedding she runs into Hollywood royalty, Roque (said like Rock), who she promptly blows off as being just another Hollywood guy used to getting what he wants. Until of course he shows up at her house asking to rent it to film his latest movie. In a desperate attempt to save her house and really be able to follow her dream of being a full time writer, she comes up with a way to get a ton of money for the house and for her living expenses, all while living in the attic of her home in secret.

Of course we can all see where this is going, sparks start to fly between Addi and Roque, and Addi is keeping her secret, well a secret. Of course I didn't end up loving everything about Addi, for a while in the beginning I felt she was a little naive about her whole theories about "Hollywood" and how she justified her plan as just taking advantage of "Hollywood money". But thankfully, Addi comes around and she genuinely tries to do the right thing, which I really appreciated about her.

Roque, oh sweet Roque. He has a lot more of a backstory then I was expecting. One of the things that really seems to plague Roque, is the loss of his mother, and his latest movie project, is to honor her, and more than that, to also prove to everyone that he is more than his family name, that he can stand on his own, hence him financing the movie by himself. I like how motivated he was, that he wasn't just some guy taking advantage of his family's money and his own fame. However, when there is a bump in the road and his new found maybe relationship with Addi comes under fire, he does not handle the situation well. I really wanted to hit the guy, I mean seriously.

I do have to say on the writing side of things, I was really happy with how the author was really about to pull me into the book emotionally. Especially when Addi and Roque were going through a rough patch, I was right there along with them. I seriously enjoyed reading this book, and I would easily recommend this book.
Profile Image for LJT.
1,260 reviews2 followers
June 25, 2016
​​​​​I read Malibu Betrayals, the first book in M.K. Meredith's Malibu Sights series, and I really enjoyed it. So when the second book in the series became available, I jumped at the chance to read it. Unfortunately, Malibu Secrets was not my cup of tea. The first half of the story was repetitive and evolved at a slow pace. The second portion was more interesting, but I found it to be very predictable. On the bright side, the cover is cute and the author's voice is easy to understand.

This is the love story between Addi Dekker, an aspiring romance novelist, and Roque Gallagher, an independent filmmaker. Addi is also a publicity guru, with a knack of getting those around her to feel comfortable and secure. Since she resigned her corporate position to write full-time, she has been having trouble meeting her financial obligations. Now the Malibu bungalow she inherited from her late great aunt is in foreclosure, and Addi needs an influx of cash in order to hold onto it. Her family has always coddled her, so she wants to save the house without their help. Simultaneously, Roque wants to rent her home to film his movie, and Addi agrees to it, albeit reluctantly. Addi adds a couple of additional monetary conditions to their contract in order to secure her present and future. She is truly taking advantage of Roque, but figures that Hollywood money is a bottomless pit.

Rogue is ecstatic when Addi agrees to let him rent her bungalow, even though the terms of their contract are a little out of the ordinary. When one of his investor's falls through, Rogue is almost certain that he will lose his chance to make his personal mark in the film business. Rogue wants to be a success without the assistance of his last name, which is synonymous with successful entertainment. Due to the terms of their contract, Roque has to give Addi a job, so Addi is now Roque's assistant. While Addie schedules his appointments and keeps the crew happy and fed, Roque spends his time seeking out new investors. As Addi and Rogue spend a lot of time together, their mutual attraction develops into lust and love. Addi is even able to help out with the investor situation. However, her deceptions may keep them from forging a future together.

The premise of this book is good and I think it would have been better served as a novella. I liked Rogue, pronounced Rock, but the spelling had me mispronouncing it throughout the book. I found it difficult to like and maintain a connection with Addie, because her actions were so juvenile and unrealistic. On a more positive note, the love scenes are hot and the author does a nice job of creating some very romantic moments. Overall, a fair read.

Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
Profile Image for L.T. Kelly.
Author 8 books53 followers
March 15, 2016
Well, MK Meredith has done it again! See my review of the tasty Malibu Betrayals here. That was book one in the Malibu Sights series of saucy standalone novels that first whet my appetite for Meredith’s smooth as glass writing.

For book two she delivered her readers Malibu Secrets. Any fan of MK, or indeed of contemporary romance, will not be disappointed! This is the story of Addi Decker, the younger sister of Samantha Dekker who was the heroine in Malibu Betrayals.

Addi is suffering with what I’d call youngest sibling disorder. By that I mean she still feels as though her family view her as a child. Addi possesses nothing if not a steely determination to rid her family of that viewpoint. However, she’s hit a wall and everything is about to come crashing down on her. Addi quit her job in pursuit of her dream to become a full time published author. So far no-one is biting at her manuscript. Her great-aunt left her a beautiful house, and if she doesn’t come up with a solution soon she could lose it. Addi is a beautifully written character that’s easy to identify with if you’re a woman that’s got something about you.

Then comes the answer to her problem. The chance to rent her home out for a Hollywood movie. Hollywood has always left a bad taste in her mouth after her sisters experiences. She’s turned it down before, but now it’s looking like the last chance to save the home she dearly loves.

Then comes ex-model, Roque Gallagher who’s pouring his time and money into making a film. He has his own agenda to fulfil. He wants to prove he’s more than just a pretty face and his family name. I shit you not, this guy is HOT HOT HOT! He’s undoubtedly your next book boyfriend waiting to happen.

Addi makes a deal with Roque and allows him to rent her house. She needs more money though, so she pockets the cash for the hotel and lives out the film time uncomfortably in the house. That means going against the contract that she’s signed, not only that but she’s keeping an epic secret from Roque who she’s come to fall in love with. Let me tell you, Roque has an excellent reason as to why he hates secrets…

As always Meredith’s writing style triumphs above all else. I can’t imagine reading anything she’s written and not letting it take me into every scene. She’s the smoothest writer I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading. Her sex scenes are second to none and leave me hot under the collar even in the frigid cold of a British winter.

I can’t recommend Meredith to enough people. So, I’ll just end with saying that she is da’ bomb of romance authors, and you’ve sorely missed out if you don’t pick up her book today.
Profile Image for Melanie.
1,076 reviews34 followers
December 14, 2015
When I first saw the title of this book, I though, here we go again with some high faluten girls from Hollywood fighting for the same man again. Boy, was I so wrong on that one. Glad that I gave this one a chance even though I had a preconceived image of this book based on the title. I have to say that M.K. Meredith did such a lovely job with this story! The depth of her writing is so wonderful and makes you feel like the characters are people you see in everyday life. Even though this is the second book in this series, it can be read as a standalone.

Addi is a young lady that is trying to make a go of it at being a writer. When she inherits a house from a family member, she never dreamed that the taxes on the house would be what set her back and put her in debt to where she was in a situation to almost have to foreclose on the house. Addi's sister has just gotten married to a famous Hollywood son and while she was at their wedding, Addi meet the brother of her new Brother in Law. Addi did not like Hollywood by any means, so she was polite with Roque, but in no means was she looking for a long term anything with him.

A few days after the wedding when someone knocks on her door, Addi had no idea that it would be Roque and then she again had no idea what he would be at her house for. When Roque explained that he was getting ready to film his own movie and he wanted to use her house as the setting for it, Addi thought that this was her saving grace to get out of debt with the house and be able to keep it. Addi never dreamed that she would be seeing tons of Roque and falling hard for him.

Roque and Addi have their ups and downs with him being so busy with the film and all. Addi is hiding a secret from Roque as well that eats at her the whole time until she finally gets the nerve to tell him too. Will Roque be able to overlook Addi's secret or will it end it all for this couple and their chance at a HEA? You need to read this story to find out. Such an emotional read for me. I was rooting for these two the whole time though! This story will definitely keep you turning the pages to find out how it all ends for Addi and Roque.
Profile Image for Book Gannet.
1,572 reviews18 followers
December 13, 2015
I find it a little hard to get behind the romance in a story when the heroine is not just lying to the hero, but stealing from him as well. Especially when Addi’s problems are pretty much of her own making. She also spends far too much time whining about how no one will treat her like a grown up, while acting like an oblivious, selfish child. So, yeah, there were times when I struggled to get into this book.

Thankfully, Roque is lovely. Considering his famous family he could have been spoilt or stuck up or selfish or… oh, sorry, I seem to be talking about Addi again. Anyway, Roque’s a good guy who is working really hard to break out on his own and get people to take him seriously. In fact, there are times when he works too hard and doesn’t seem to know when to let go. Which is why he’s such a failure at relationships. Until Addi comes along.

If this book had just been about the Addi he ends up working with, I would have really liked it, because that Addi is excellent at her job and nice to people, even if her teasing/challenging of Roque was sometimes a bit annoying. Unfortunately it isn’t and all the things Addi’s hiding meant that I actually felt sorry for Roque, even when he was being a bit of an idiot and a complete workaholic jerk. Which was confusing. But only because Addi has her own selfish reasons for needing to talk to him now, now, now, even when she knew what she was signing up for and how important the film was to him. But that doesn’t matter because Addi is more important! Always!

However, in the rare moments when she wasn’t annoying me, I did enjoy this book. The sex is hot, some of the secondary characters are fun and interesting, and the movie stuff provides an excellent backdrop for it all. I just didn’t like the heroine. Your own mileage may vary depending on how much of Addi’s behaviour you can stomach. Or you could just read it for Roque, because to be honest he is kind of worth it.

(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
Profile Image for Gigi staub.
942 reviews18 followers
December 14, 2015
On the verge of losing the Malibu home she inherited from her great-aunt, Addi Dekker is completely failing to prove to her family she can make it as a writer. Not exactly how a girl proves her independence. If she doesn’t want to give up her dream and go back to the soul-sucking job she just left, Addi has to swallow her dislike of Hollywood and rent the house out to the sexy-as-hell film producer.

And maybe (shhhh!) save money by secretly living there, too.

Roque Gallagher is pouring his heart and savings into his first independent film to make the industry acknowledge him for his talent and not just his family name. Addi’s home is perfect for the shoot, but she’s far too tempting. He’s never been able to handle work and a relationship, and this is the film of a lifetime. Between a shrinking budget and his director quitting, the last thing he needs is a sexy-as-sin tease like Addi. And he has a feeling there's something she's hiding...

Review:

This is a new to me Author and I found I really liked her writing style. I especially liked the emotional quality to the story. I felt so bad for Addi when she came clean to Roque and he left her. Though she did have it coming, she was lying to him and basically stealing for him. Addi makes a lot of un-smart choices in this story, from not having a good financial plan and almost losing her house to thinking she can play fast and loose with other people money. I think because of the Author's writing, what could have been a very unsympathetic character (Addi) was not so bad because you could see her motivation and reasoning. Loved Roque thought he was perfect, handsome, smart and talented. The whole story kept me engaged and I kept waiting to see how these two would work out their obstacles. Even though this is the second book in a series and they kind of alluded to past events, it never distracted from this story.

I would definitely read more by this Author!

3.5Stars

*Received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
23 reviews5 followers
December 1, 2015
Malibu secrets (A Malibu sights novel)

I love the main characters Addi and Roque! They are full of ambitions and dreams, and are actively working on and making them come true, I find this very inspirational. The messages that come across are so important and relevant to today's society: work hard but make time for the ones you love. Be truthful in Any relationship and so much more.

We get to see all our beloved Malibu family and meet new friends and a deeper understanding of the families that surround our stars.

As the title suggests this story is centred around one big secret and lots of little lies!
White lies harmless on their own but dangerous piled on top of each other aren't they? After all it's Hollywood everyone lies and uses each other right?

I adored the story and the positive messages it sends. I have to be honest and say that I found the middle a little too stretched out for me personally but I understand why all the little details are important.
The beginning and end were so powerful and engaging that it made the story hard to put down I fell in love with this book as I did Book number 1 and as always I felt lost when it ended. So here I am hoping and praying for the next book
Bring it on!
I have been given an ARC in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Denise.
4,120 reviews12 followers
December 15, 2015
I do so enjoy dipping into novels such as this that promise lighthearted, strong story and do not forget the romance. This author gives that in bunches when you begin and meet Addi who has to come up with a solution that will save the day. It turns out to be a hum dinger especially when you meet Roque and he too is out to prove something and needs her house to do it. From that point on you too are embroiled into the scheme of hers with good intentions regardless but the snare of love will lasso them both while things are rolling Hollywood style in Malibu. The characters that are also in this ensure that this is a well rounded novel that takes you along in their building romance that as they work together they give pieces to each other. Right when you think it will turn out all right the secret is out even though it is told with noses get bent out of shape but hen what good romance does not have a hitch in the road. Both sides try and make each see reason but love must go in its own sweet time with you anticipating and then waiting to see the outcome. It will come together quite nicely with the reader releasing a breath with a sigh because love does triumph in the style that fits this story.
Profile Image for Sara.
1,409 reviews166 followers
December 15, 2015
Malibu Secrets is an enjoyable, sweet romance about two people with something to prove who find they need each other. When their pasts and secrets threaten to ruin things, can they find support in each other?

Addi’s family thinks she’s irresponsible and out of control. Roque wants to make a name for himself in Hollywood without his family’s name or money helping him. They need each other to succeed in proving their worth to their families, but secrets and lies get in the way.

I liked the book once it finally got going. It was slow in the beginning, but the pace picked up nicely as the book went along. Unfortunately, I didn’t really feel the connection between Addi and Roque. It was there, but it wasn’t as believable as in some other books. However, there was a happily ever after that was satisfying, the writing solid and the characters likable.

If you like romance, Hollywood and HEAs, then this book might be for you.

I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Pam .
1,442 reviews13 followers
June 15, 2016
Addison Dekker inherited a house from her aunt & set out to write romance novels. The only thing is, they aren't selling & the house is about to go into foreclosure. Enter Roque, a film maker. He wants to use her house to make a movie. Addi was smart enough to write into the contract that they had to put her up in a hotel until the movie was finished. However, she pocketed that money & prepared to live in secret in the attic. She assumes he can afford all of her demands until his major backer pulls out. Can Addi save her home? Will Addi & Roque developed a relationship?

The author does a masterful job of setting her plot & developing complex characters. They each have their own fears, ambitions & desires. Addi & Roque are drawn to each other in spite of the lies & distrust between them. The conflict continues through plot twists & the growing attraction. The author manages to engage your emotions & keep you fully involved until the end.
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