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The Callaways #14
Secrets We Keep
From #1 New York Times Bestselling Author Barbara Freethy comes the next book in her popular family The Callaways. SECRETS WE KEEP is filled with Barbara’s unique blend of romance, mystery, suspense and family drama! Each book stands completely on its own, but if you love one Callaway, you’ll love them all.
When firefighter Hunter Callaway makes a grisly discovery during a scorching fire at the house of his former high school sweetheart, everything he thought he knew about his past is now in question. The girl he'd loved, the one who'd broken his heart when she'd run away with another guy, might not have been who he thought she was.
The last thing Cassidy Ellison ever wanted to do was revisit her past. But she's suddenly a suspect in a terrible crime, and while she might be able to put off the police, there's no running away from Hunter Callaway—not again. The boy of her dreams is now a man—an impatient, angry, demanding man who wants answers, some of which she has vowed never to speak.
Staying silent has kept her alive, but now her secrets might not only take her life, but also Hunter's. As determined as Hunter is to make her talk, someone else is just as determined to keep her quiet…
Don't miss this thrilling romance!
Also Available in the Callaway
If I Didn’t Know Better #1
Tender Is The Night #2
Take Me Home (Callaway novella)
Closer to You #3
Once You're Mine #4
Can't Let Go #5
Secrets We Keep #6
PRAISE FOR BARBARA FREETHY NOVELS
"I love The Callaways! Heartwarming romance, intriguing suspense and sexy alpha heroes. What more could you want?" —NYT Bestselling Author Bella Andre
"A fabulous, page-turning combination of romance and intrigue. Fans of Nora Roberts and Elizabeth Lowell will love this book." —NYT Bestselling Author Kristin Hannah on Golden Lies
"In the tradition of LaVyrle Spencer, gifted author Barbara Freethy creates an irresistible tale of family secrets, riveting adventure and heart- touching romance." — NYT Bestselling Author Susan Wiggs on Summer Secrets
"This book has it heart, community, and characters who will remain with you long after the book has ended. A wonderful story." — NYT Bestselling Author Debbie Macomber on Suddenly One Summer
"A warm and wonderful book about love, family and everything that’s important in life. Irresistible! I loved it!" — NYT Bestselling Author Susan Elizabeth Phillips on Ask Mariah
"Once I start reading a Callaway novel, I can't put it down. Fast- paced action, a poignant love story and a tantalizing mystery in every book!" —USA Today Bestselling Author Christie Ridgway
"I adore The Callaways, a family we'd all love to have. Each new book is a deft combination of emotion, suspense and family dynamics. A remarkable, compelling series!" —USA Today Bestselling Author Barbara O'Neal
"Freethy has a gift for creating complex characters." — Library Journal
"Freethy’s skillful plotting and gift for creating sympathetic characters will ensure that few dry eyes will be left at the end of the story.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 12, 2018
711 people are currently reading
329 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Freethy
153 books2,692 followersBarbara's love of writing developed out of a love of reading. Growing up in an all-boy neighborhood, she spent quite a bit of time reading through her mother's large library, many of which were romantic novels. After graduating from the University of California at Santa Barbara, she went into Public Relations, but soon discovered that writing was her true passion.
Barbara was traditionally published for many years, then formed her own publishing company FOG CITY PUBLISHING in 2011 and has since sold over 10 million books! She has published 75 novels ranging from mystery thrillers to romantic suspense and contemporary romance.
Her book SUMMER SECRETS was a #1 New York Times bestseller! And twenty-five other novels have also appeared on the New York Times and USA Today Bestseller Lists. She is currently writing two ongoing series, a contemporary romance series set in Whisper Lake and a romantic suspense series: Off The Grid: FBI Series. She is also known for her bestselling Callaway Family Series, which offers up fourteen books and two novellas.
When Barbara isn't writing or publishing, which isn't very often these days, she is playing tennis, hanging out with friends and family in beautiful Lake Tahoe or reading books!
For a complete list of her books, visit her website!
Barbara was traditionally published for many years, then formed her own publishing company FOG CITY PUBLISHING in 2011 and has since sold over 10 million books! She has published 75 novels ranging from mystery thrillers to romantic suspense and contemporary romance.
Her book SUMMER SECRETS was a #1 New York Times bestseller! And twenty-five other novels have also appeared on the New York Times and USA Today Bestseller Lists. She is currently writing two ongoing series, a contemporary romance series set in Whisper Lake and a romantic suspense series: Off The Grid: FBI Series. She is also known for her bestselling Callaway Family Series, which offers up fourteen books and two novellas.
When Barbara isn't writing or publishing, which isn't very often these days, she is playing tennis, hanging out with friends and family in beautiful Lake Tahoe or reading books!
For a complete list of her books, visit her website!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
September 4, 2018
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I'm a huge fan of Ms. Freethy's books and look forward to the next installment of the Callaway family. I enjoyed the reunion of the family and the insertion of Anne and Griffin's wedding.
Hunter is feeling restless as he follows through to become a firefighter, just like his brother, father, uncle, and cousins. He is back to work after taking time off due to an injury. The first day leads him to a fire to a familiar location, and it takes him back 14 years, when his heart was broken. Cassidy, who suddenly left him, used to live in the home, and memories begin pouring in. To his relief, there is no sign of her, but he discovers something else, and it propels him to search for her to get answers.
With his brother-in-law's, Max's, help, he locates her and after 14 years, he cannot deny the feelings he has for her, even though his heart is bruised. She is surprised to see him, and upon learning of his discovery, takes a chance to explain the sudden disappearance. They decide to team up to find clues and answers and realize that their lives are in danger and time is running out......
I read this book in one sitting and could not put it down. This is my "comfort food" author where I know I will enjoy and savor the story, still wanting more. The pace was consistent throughout the book and the character development had many layers where you were feeling happy, sad, anxious and overall feelings of hope for yet another Calloway.
I'm a huge fan of Ms. Freethy's books and look forward to the next installment of the Callaway family. I enjoyed the reunion of the family and the insertion of Anne and Griffin's wedding.
Hunter is feeling restless as he follows through to become a firefighter, just like his brother, father, uncle, and cousins. He is back to work after taking time off due to an injury. The first day leads him to a fire to a familiar location, and it takes him back 14 years, when his heart was broken. Cassidy, who suddenly left him, used to live in the home, and memories begin pouring in. To his relief, there is no sign of her, but he discovers something else, and it propels him to search for her to get answers.
With his brother-in-law's, Max's, help, he locates her and after 14 years, he cannot deny the feelings he has for her, even though his heart is bruised. She is surprised to see him, and upon learning of his discovery, takes a chance to explain the sudden disappearance. They decide to team up to find clues and answers and realize that their lives are in danger and time is running out......
I read this book in one sitting and could not put it down. This is my "comfort food" author where I know I will enjoy and savor the story, still wanting more. The pace was consistent throughout the book and the character development had many layers where you were feeling happy, sad, anxious and overall feelings of hope for yet another Calloway.
September 5, 2018
Oh I loved it so much. It was so hard to put down. It is Hunter's and Cassidy's story. It was so filled with twists and turns. It is another great read by MS. Freethy! The title is so right on as there are many secrets. It also has lots of romance, drama and laughs as well. Another Great Callaway story. You must read this one.
September 19, 2018
Great reading
As always Barbara Freethy out did herself. She keeps you interested all the way to the end. A great book to read
As always Barbara Freethy out did herself. She keeps you interested all the way to the end. A great book to read
December 22, 2019
This last story of the Callahans was fantastic. There was time with many of the family, but also just with the new couple Cassidy and Hunter. They had a story that was quite different from the others and it was fascinating.
Though years had passed, both couldn’t get past their emotions for the other. The story looks at multiple views and shares a variety of crimes and hardships that occurred. The take on a bad foster family and not trusting who Cassidy could talk to was sad, but also well done. I did not expect some of the loyalty given to others from within the foster family. The relationships and memories were interesting as was how the story was solved.
The wedding was fun and I loved how all the couples were mentioned. The family portrait was precious and I am tickled that we met a new cousin because I love this series and didn’t want to completely say goodbye. I read this series in order and would recommend doing the same as each story is well developed and full of vibrant characters in one fantastic literary world ❤️
Though years had passed, both couldn’t get past their emotions for the other. The story looks at multiple views and shares a variety of crimes and hardships that occurred. The take on a bad foster family and not trusting who Cassidy could talk to was sad, but also well done. I did not expect some of the loyalty given to others from within the foster family. The relationships and memories were interesting as was how the story was solved.
The wedding was fun and I loved how all the couples were mentioned. The family portrait was precious and I am tickled that we met a new cousin because I love this series and didn’t want to completely say goodbye. I read this series in order and would recommend doing the same as each story is well developed and full of vibrant characters in one fantastic literary world ❤️
September 3, 2018
Secrets We Keep (Callaways Cousins #6) (Callaways #14) (Callaway Cousins ) by Barbara Freethy
It's that time again. Time to get caught up in a mystery of the heart with Barbara Freethy and her Callaway clan. Secrets we Keep has complicated written all over it. Hunter and Cassidy are pulled into a dangerous game of love, lies and murder. He's trying to find answers. She's fighting for her life. Will past hurts and gruesome secrets lead these broken hearts back to each other's arms or part them forever? Falling in love is risky business for a Callaway. Freethy exercises every sense to create unforgettable. From the mind to the heart, nothing is off limits.
It's that time again. Time to get caught up in a mystery of the heart with Barbara Freethy and her Callaway clan. Secrets we Keep has complicated written all over it. Hunter and Cassidy are pulled into a dangerous game of love, lies and murder. He's trying to find answers. She's fighting for her life. Will past hurts and gruesome secrets lead these broken hearts back to each other's arms or part them forever? Falling in love is risky business for a Callaway. Freethy exercises every sense to create unforgettable. From the mind to the heart, nothing is off limits.
October 6, 2019
Fantastic
I'm going to miss these Calloways!! Hunter's story was a great one to finish the series. A great second chance romance with a great mystery mixed in. Definitely a book and series I recommend to everyone.
I'm going to miss these Calloways!! Hunter's story was a great one to finish the series. A great second chance romance with a great mystery mixed in. Definitely a book and series I recommend to everyone.
September 8, 2018
I love the Callaway family and Hunter's story was an amazing addition to this great series. Even though this book is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. However, I fully suggest reading the entire series, so you can fully enjoy all of the Callaway clan.
This is Hunter's story and his second chance at love (even though he didn't realize he wanted/needed a second chance at love). What does one do when the past is thrown in your face? How about when a horrible situation can lead to many unanswered questions about lost love? Do you walk away and drop it, let others figure out the mystery of do you jump in and take matters i to your own hands? Well, if you know anything about the Callaway family.....they never give up when the going gets tough.
Hunter finds his high school girlfriend, Cassie and together they must deal with a horrible situation that happened years ago at Cassie's foster home. Together, they deal with their past, but can they move from the past and into the present together? Can their hearts heal from past hurts in order to try for a second chance at love? This book has mystery, love and a second chance at happiness. No cliffhanger, just another great read from Barbara Freethy! Enjoy Hunter's story and if you haven't read the other books in the series.....order them and get ready for more enjoyable reads.
This is Hunter's story and his second chance at love (even though he didn't realize he wanted/needed a second chance at love). What does one do when the past is thrown in your face? How about when a horrible situation can lead to many unanswered questions about lost love? Do you walk away and drop it, let others figure out the mystery of do you jump in and take matters i to your own hands? Well, if you know anything about the Callaway family.....they never give up when the going gets tough.
Hunter finds his high school girlfriend, Cassie and together they must deal with a horrible situation that happened years ago at Cassie's foster home. Together, they deal with their past, but can they move from the past and into the present together? Can their hearts heal from past hurts in order to try for a second chance at love? This book has mystery, love and a second chance at happiness. No cliffhanger, just another great read from Barbara Freethy! Enjoy Hunter's story and if you haven't read the other books in the series.....order them and get ready for more enjoyable reads.
January 5, 2020
Another great read by Barbara Freethy!!!
This is book # 6 In Callaways Cousins and book #14 in Callaways the last book about the Callaways. I am sad to see this series end but looking forward to the next series Whisper Lake where we will meet more Callaways cousins. Even though this book is a part of the Callaways series you can very well read it as a standalone. Let me warn you can’t stop at only reading this book you will want to read the whole series. What an exciting book with so many twists and turns. Ms. Freethy has a way of writing that won’t let you put the book down until you finish the last page. The characters are realistic, very likeable and make you feel a part of their story. I can’t wait for the new series to come out.
This is book # 6 In Callaways Cousins and book #14 in Callaways the last book about the Callaways. I am sad to see this series end but looking forward to the next series Whisper Lake where we will meet more Callaways cousins. Even though this book is a part of the Callaways series you can very well read it as a standalone. Let me warn you can’t stop at only reading this book you will want to read the whole series. What an exciting book with so many twists and turns. Ms. Freethy has a way of writing that won’t let you put the book down until you finish the last page. The characters are realistic, very likeable and make you feel a part of their story. I can’t wait for the new series to come out.
September 15, 2018
Hunter is a firefighter just like most of the rest of his family are. However he feels like it isn't the right fit anymore. He just gets back from a 9 month hiatus after healing from falling down an elevator shaft. Some think it is PTSD, he knows it isn't and that he is not feeling fulfillment from his career anymore and thinks it is time for a change. While Hunter is filling in for six weeks for another injured firefighter, he has a very interesting first day back. He ends up back at the house of his high school sweetheart whom left him 14 years ago and never looked back. However they make an awful discovery in the garage, a dead body that had been there for some time behind the walls. Hunter thinks that it might be Cassidy, but he really believes it is not. It has to be one of the other foster kids that lived in the house around the same time.
Cassidy ran, and ran. She had to get away from her foster family. She knew they were evil and really only in it for the money that they got from the government. They made sure they put on the perfect act outside of the house, but inside was a whole different ballpark.
Cassidy ended up working for a nursery and digging up plants and making gardens, her life passion. But then her past comes back to haunt her. She thought she put it all behind her and moved on. It has come back with a vengeance.
Cassidy and Hunter re-meet under horrible circumstances, but feel the connection again right away. Of course there is the past that they both need to deal with. Can Cassidy trust Hunter with everything? Can Hunter trust Cassidy not to run again when things get tough?
Loved reading Cassidy and Hunter's book. It was intense, suspenseful, and kept me on the edge of who was the guilty one from Cassidy's past.
Lost of twists and turns, almost being driven off a cliff, kidnapped, and almost shot. Lots of action to keep you on the edge. Loved it!!
Cassidy ran, and ran. She had to get away from her foster family. She knew they were evil and really only in it for the money that they got from the government. They made sure they put on the perfect act outside of the house, but inside was a whole different ballpark.
Cassidy ended up working for a nursery and digging up plants and making gardens, her life passion. But then her past comes back to haunt her. She thought she put it all behind her and moved on. It has come back with a vengeance.
Cassidy and Hunter re-meet under horrible circumstances, but feel the connection again right away. Of course there is the past that they both need to deal with. Can Cassidy trust Hunter with everything? Can Hunter trust Cassidy not to run again when things get tough?
Loved reading Cassidy and Hunter's book. It was intense, suspenseful, and kept me on the edge of who was the guilty one from Cassidy's past.
Lost of twists and turns, almost being driven off a cliff, kidnapped, and almost shot. Lots of action to keep you on the edge. Loved it!!
September 27, 2018
**Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
"Secrets We Keep" is written by Barbara Freethy, and it is the 6th book in her Callaways Cousins series. It can be read as a stand-alone book. It features Hunter Callaway and Cassidy Ellison.
Right from the beginning, I was hooked! Hunter is a firefighter, who was called to the scene of a house fire. He later discovers a dead body in the wall. Who used to reside in this house with her foster family? His high school sweetheart, Cassidy Ellison. Who was the dead body? Another foster kid named Tommy. Tommy happens to also be the same person Cassidy was going to run away with the day of Hunter and Cassidy's prom. Hunter hasn't seen her for several years. Is she a suspect?
Cassidy wants to leave her past behind her. Living with her foster family brought nothing, but bad memories. But now, she could potentially be a suspect to the fire and to the murder. She's shocked when she sees Hunter again.
Hunter wants to know what happened while Cassidy lived at that house. He's still heartbroken over her leaving him before prom, but after speaking with her and realizing she's innocent, they try and figure out what happened.
Who started the fire? Who killed Tommy? What happened to one of the foster kids, Molly, who mysteriously disappeared? The closer Cassidy and Hunter get to the truth, the more in danger they get. Will Hunter be able to protect her? Will they get their second chance at love?
Much like Barbara Freethy's other stories, "Secrets We Keep" is a wonderfully action-packed, suspense thriller with romance. That's one thing I love about her stories! They never disappoint! Out of all the Callaway books, "Secrets We Keep" might be my favorite one! If not, it's definitely in my top 3! Looking forward to what Barbara Freethy has in store next!
"Secrets We Keep" is written by Barbara Freethy, and it is the 6th book in her Callaways Cousins series. It can be read as a stand-alone book. It features Hunter Callaway and Cassidy Ellison.
Right from the beginning, I was hooked! Hunter is a firefighter, who was called to the scene of a house fire. He later discovers a dead body in the wall. Who used to reside in this house with her foster family? His high school sweetheart, Cassidy Ellison. Who was the dead body? Another foster kid named Tommy. Tommy happens to also be the same person Cassidy was going to run away with the day of Hunter and Cassidy's prom. Hunter hasn't seen her for several years. Is she a suspect?
Cassidy wants to leave her past behind her. Living with her foster family brought nothing, but bad memories. But now, she could potentially be a suspect to the fire and to the murder. She's shocked when she sees Hunter again.
Hunter wants to know what happened while Cassidy lived at that house. He's still heartbroken over her leaving him before prom, but after speaking with her and realizing she's innocent, they try and figure out what happened.
Who started the fire? Who killed Tommy? What happened to one of the foster kids, Molly, who mysteriously disappeared? The closer Cassidy and Hunter get to the truth, the more in danger they get. Will Hunter be able to protect her? Will they get their second chance at love?
Much like Barbara Freethy's other stories, "Secrets We Keep" is a wonderfully action-packed, suspense thriller with romance. That's one thing I love about her stories! They never disappoint! Out of all the Callaway books, "Secrets We Keep" might be my favorite one! If not, it's definitely in my top 3! Looking forward to what Barbara Freethy has in store next!
September 12, 2018
Another great addition to the Callaway's! When Hunter returns from the eight months he took off of work after an injury, the first call he gets sent out to is the foster home of his ex-girlfriend. When a gruesome discovery is found in the remains of the house, Cassidy needs Hunter's help. But can he let go of the resentment that Cassidy had just up and left with someone else all those years ago?
I liked how Hunter, despite his anger at the way Cassidy left him, didn't hesitate to help her when she needed it. While I understood Cassidy's reasons for running away from the foster home all those years ago, I also felt like she should have confided in Hunter and his family. She had grown close to his parents and siblings and should have known that they would have been willing to help her back then, the way they stepped up to help her at the present time.
Yes, readers get to see Hunter's siblings and cousins, especially Max, who's helping to figure out what really happened in the foster house of horrors. I love how they always step up and help one another, even though most of them were hesitant around Cassidy because she had broken Hunter's heart. Still, when she needed them, they were there.
Readers are briefly introduced to Lizzie Cole, a Callaway cousin from Whisper Lake, Colorado, which sets up a new series for a new group of Callaway cousins. I'm looking forward to reading it.
Secrets We Keep has a little bit of everything: mystery, suspense, love, family, and second chances. If you haven't read a Barbara Freethy book before, there's not a better time to start! This can be read as a standalone, although I recommend reading all the Callaway Cousins books because they're all good.
I liked how Hunter, despite his anger at the way Cassidy left him, didn't hesitate to help her when she needed it. While I understood Cassidy's reasons for running away from the foster home all those years ago, I also felt like she should have confided in Hunter and his family. She had grown close to his parents and siblings and should have known that they would have been willing to help her back then, the way they stepped up to help her at the present time.
Yes, readers get to see Hunter's siblings and cousins, especially Max, who's helping to figure out what really happened in the foster house of horrors. I love how they always step up and help one another, even though most of them were hesitant around Cassidy because she had broken Hunter's heart. Still, when she needed them, they were there.
Readers are briefly introduced to Lizzie Cole, a Callaway cousin from Whisper Lake, Colorado, which sets up a new series for a new group of Callaway cousins. I'm looking forward to reading it.
Secrets We Keep has a little bit of everything: mystery, suspense, love, family, and second chances. If you haven't read a Barbara Freethy book before, there's not a better time to start! This can be read as a standalone, although I recommend reading all the Callaway Cousins books because they're all good.
September 5, 2018
Hunter Callaway is a fireman who has been away from town for awhile after falling down three stories during a fire. He is temporarily at the firehouse his older brother works at. They are called to a house fire, and on the way Hunter remembers Cassidy Ellison his high school sweetheart that left him on the day of the prom with a text. She lived in a foster home that ends up where they are going to put out the house fire. Hunter is in the garage venting it and finds a body. He is afraid it is Cassidy’s body since she disappeared so suddenly. He finds out it is Tommy, the boy she supposedly ran away with. Now Hunter has to find Cassidy to make sure she is still alive, plus the police want to talk to her.
When they meet again, I could feel the sizzle between the two coming out of the pages. Even though Hunter had been hurt very badly by her leaving, no one has measured up to her. Cassidy is not the only one who had secrets in that foster home. Someone is a murderer. There is mystery, suspense, and romance. There is also jealousy and manipulation going on. There are people trying to make Cassidy look guilty, but Hunter is determined to help her prove she had nothing to do with the murder. I loved the book and strongly encourage you to read the book. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book.
When they meet again, I could feel the sizzle between the two coming out of the pages. Even though Hunter had been hurt very badly by her leaving, no one has measured up to her. Cassidy is not the only one who had secrets in that foster home. Someone is a murderer. There is mystery, suspense, and romance. There is also jealousy and manipulation going on. There are people trying to make Cassidy look guilty, but Hunter is determined to help her prove she had nothing to do with the murder. I loved the book and strongly encourage you to read the book. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book.
September 12, 2018
This is sadly the last in the Callaway cousins book but another winner for Barbara, This time it’s Hunters story, he’s back on his first day after his 8 months break, they are called out to a fire and Hunter soon realises this is the old home his x girlfriend Cassidy was fostered at, the one she ran away from without any word and literally broke Hunters heart, while at the fire Hunter made a gruesome discovery of a body in a wall cavity, after the initial shock Hunter realised he had to find Cassidy to get some answers.
In true Barbara style he finds Cassidy and soon love blossoms once again, she has made a new life for herself as a landscape gardener, something she loved as a child, but kept her past a secret from everyone even the people that took her in, now everything has turned around, will Hunter and Cassidy live happily ever after? Or will fate take a nasty turn as someone decides Cassidy is a threat to them and kidnaps her.
Will Hunter find her and rescue her of course he will, he has had something missing in his life all these years and suddenly realises it’s Cassidy, he’s determined not to lose her again, and turns detective and hunts her down just in time to save her.
Loved the book full of intrigue, raunchy bit in the middle, the suspense of who did what, great story kept me hooked, couldn’t put it down, well done Barbara another successful book
In true Barbara style he finds Cassidy and soon love blossoms once again, she has made a new life for herself as a landscape gardener, something she loved as a child, but kept her past a secret from everyone even the people that took her in, now everything has turned around, will Hunter and Cassidy live happily ever after? Or will fate take a nasty turn as someone decides Cassidy is a threat to them and kidnaps her.
Will Hunter find her and rescue her of course he will, he has had something missing in his life all these years and suddenly realises it’s Cassidy, he’s determined not to lose her again, and turns detective and hunts her down just in time to save her.
Loved the book full of intrigue, raunchy bit in the middle, the suspense of who did what, great story kept me hooked, couldn’t put it down, well done Barbara another successful book
September 13, 2018
It was a tragedy that tore them apart and another one that brought them back together. Hunter and Cassidy fell in love at 16 years old. But then Cassidy ran away. Hunter never quite got over his first love. So, years later, when his fire crew finds themselves battling a fire at the house where Cassidy once lived, it brought back memories. And when he discovers remains inside the walls of the garage, his memories turn toward fear. Was it Cassidy? And if not, who was it?? And just what had gone on inside the walls of the foster home Cassidy once lived in? Soon it is determined that Cassidy is not the body inside the wall, but rather, it was the young boy she was thought to have run away with. Hunter sets out to track Cassidy down and get to the bottom of why she ran so many years ago, and just what was going on inside that house. When he finds her, Hunter discovers that Cassidy is even more beautiful now than she was 15 years ago. But she is still unable to trust anyone. Not even Hunter.
A beautiful story of love conquering all. Barbara Freethy does such a wonderful job of dealing with emotionally charged situations and ‘Secrets We Keep’ is no exception. It is another chance to discover more about the Callaway Cousins, and see this close knot family pulling together for each other.
A beautiful story of love conquering all. Barbara Freethy does such a wonderful job of dealing with emotionally charged situations and ‘Secrets We Keep’ is no exception. It is another chance to discover more about the Callaway Cousins, and see this close knot family pulling together for each other.
September 12, 2018
Another fantastic book from Barbara Freethy
As a fan of her books, especially her Callaways series, I was looking forward to finally reading Hunters story. Returning from 8 months away after an accident at work, he’s back but still looking for that something he feels is missing. First day back...gets called to a house fire where his ex girlfriend used to live, finds a body buried in the walls and fears its her ( I’ll never complain about my first day back at work ever again 🙈)
His Ex, Cassidy is alive and has no idea her past is rearing it’s ugly head, but when the two of them join forces to learn the truths, old hurts and feelings bubble to the surface and what follows is a fight between old and new love, as well as someone who wants the secrets Cassidy knows to stay that way
As with all of Freethy’s work, what makes her books different is the characters, you care about them the moment you meet them and are brought along with them in their journeys. It’s always good to revisit old friends...especially Max...he was my favourite.
Bittersweet that this is the last Callaways book, but the author did drop a tease about another series, loosely connected, so can’t wait to start that
Congratulations on a fab book
As a fan of her books, especially her Callaways series, I was looking forward to finally reading Hunters story. Returning from 8 months away after an accident at work, he’s back but still looking for that something he feels is missing. First day back...gets called to a house fire where his ex girlfriend used to live, finds a body buried in the walls and fears its her ( I’ll never complain about my first day back at work ever again 🙈)
His Ex, Cassidy is alive and has no idea her past is rearing it’s ugly head, but when the two of them join forces to learn the truths, old hurts and feelings bubble to the surface and what follows is a fight between old and new love, as well as someone who wants the secrets Cassidy knows to stay that way
As with all of Freethy’s work, what makes her books different is the characters, you care about them the moment you meet them and are brought along with them in their journeys. It’s always good to revisit old friends...especially Max...he was my favourite.
Bittersweet that this is the last Callaways book, but the author did drop a tease about another series, loosely connected, so can’t wait to start that
Congratulations on a fab book
September 3, 2018
Hunter is finally back on the job after an eight month sabbatical. Now he just needs to decide whether firefighting is what he really wants to do for the rest of his life. On his first call back, his past rears it’s head. His ex-girlfriends foster home was on fire. When Hunter was venting the walls in the garage, a body fell out. Cassidy disappeared 14 years ago & was never heard from. It couldn’t be her, right?
Cassidy had a great life until she lost her parents as a teenager. Suddenly she was thrust into foster care. After she met Hunter, life was tolerable until one of the other girls disappeared & the others all denied she’d ever been there. She knew she had to run away in order to survive. She’s changed her last name & went on with her life until Hunter tracked her down after the fire. Now her life is in danger. Who is behind it all?
Ms. Freethy has a talent for giving her readers warm, emotional characters that tug at the heart. The suspense & characters pull the reader into the story & the romance keeps them involved. The characters are realistic & the interactions make you feel a part of the story. I’ve loved the Callaway’s & hate to see this series end. I can’t wait for Whisper Lake to come out!
Cassidy had a great life until she lost her parents as a teenager. Suddenly she was thrust into foster care. After she met Hunter, life was tolerable until one of the other girls disappeared & the others all denied she’d ever been there. She knew she had to run away in order to survive. She’s changed her last name & went on with her life until Hunter tracked her down after the fire. Now her life is in danger. Who is behind it all?
Ms. Freethy has a talent for giving her readers warm, emotional characters that tug at the heart. The suspense & characters pull the reader into the story & the romance keeps them involved. The characters are realistic & the interactions make you feel a part of the story. I’ve loved the Callaway’s & hate to see this series end. I can’t wait for Whisper Lake to come out!
September 12, 2018
Mystery. Romance. Past history. Three of my favorite pieces of a good story.
Barbara Freethy’s newest Callaway story, SECRETS WE KEEP, is so easy to jump into — even without reading previous books in the series. This title begins with Hunter Callaway returning from finding himself. We jump right into the action with him as he joins his fellow firefighters to fight a house fire.
Surprise — the house is where the Cassidy, the girl he loved in high school, lived. But she disappeared from his life suddenly, and he’s still reeling from the pain, even if he thinks he’s moved on.
The mystery comes in after Hunter discovers something suspicious in the fire and he and Cassidy work to unearth the many secrets from a decade before.
The best part of a shared past is we can rush past the whole getting-to-know-you parts of the book. Of course, sharing a past doesn’t mean the present is smooth sailing. Our couple has to work through all the hurt feelings and fears of moving forward.
Freethy also weaves a good mystery with plenty of clues and enough twists to keep readers guessing. Her resolution, however, makes perfect sense. (Don’t you hate suspense that uses extraordinary effort to tie everything up?)
SECRETS WE KEEP is an excellent addition to Freethy’s Callaway series.
Barbara Freethy’s newest Callaway story, SECRETS WE KEEP, is so easy to jump into — even without reading previous books in the series. This title begins with Hunter Callaway returning from finding himself. We jump right into the action with him as he joins his fellow firefighters to fight a house fire.
Surprise — the house is where the Cassidy, the girl he loved in high school, lived. But she disappeared from his life suddenly, and he’s still reeling from the pain, even if he thinks he’s moved on.
The mystery comes in after Hunter discovers something suspicious in the fire and he and Cassidy work to unearth the many secrets from a decade before.
The best part of a shared past is we can rush past the whole getting-to-know-you parts of the book. Of course, sharing a past doesn’t mean the present is smooth sailing. Our couple has to work through all the hurt feelings and fears of moving forward.
Freethy also weaves a good mystery with plenty of clues and enough twists to keep readers guessing. Her resolution, however, makes perfect sense. (Don’t you hate suspense that uses extraordinary effort to tie everything up?)
SECRETS WE KEEP is an excellent addition to Freethy’s Callaway series.
September 12, 2018
Secrets We Keep by Barbara Freethy is the latest in the Callaway books. It stars Hunter, the injured firefighter who rode his motorcycle to South America, and Cassidy, his high school sweetheart.
Note: this review contains spoilers!
It all starts when Hunter back on the job discovers a body in the walls of the place where Cassidy used to live as a foster child. She disappeared on him 14 years ago, but this can’t be her, can it? If it isn’t, then where is she? Did she really run away with Tommy like she said?
But it’s Tommy in the wall and Cassidy is found working in landscaping garden center. Unfortunately, Tommy’s death isn’t the only secret from that foster home. What happened to Molly, the girl that everyone one else said Cassidy made up? And when the foster dad’s car went off the road and killed him, was it an accident like everyone said, or something more sinister?
Barbara does an excellent job of weaving self discovery, romance, and suspense into this book! It was beautiful how both Hunter and Cassidy learned to trust and love again. And I didn’t figure out the mystery so I was on the edge of my seat to find the really bad guy!
I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did!
Note: this review contains spoilers!
It all starts when Hunter back on the job discovers a body in the walls of the place where Cassidy used to live as a foster child. She disappeared on him 14 years ago, but this can’t be her, can it? If it isn’t, then where is she? Did she really run away with Tommy like she said?
But it’s Tommy in the wall and Cassidy is found working in landscaping garden center. Unfortunately, Tommy’s death isn’t the only secret from that foster home. What happened to Molly, the girl that everyone one else said Cassidy made up? And when the foster dad’s car went off the road and killed him, was it an accident like everyone said, or something more sinister?
Barbara does an excellent job of weaving self discovery, romance, and suspense into this book! It was beautiful how both Hunter and Cassidy learned to trust and love again. And I didn’t figure out the mystery so I was on the edge of my seat to find the really bad guy!
I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2018
Secrets drove Cassidy out of Hunter Callaway's life when he was a junior in high school and now years later those same secrets bring them back into each other.
Hunter is a firefighter but for years he has been restless, not really sure why. He had dreams that went up in smoke when Cassidy left him but why she left was not for the reason he thought, not exactly.
Cassidy is forced to face her past when her old house burns down and Hunter finds a skeleton hidden in the walls after the fire is put out. This one incident leads the pair on a journey to discover the truth and unlock the secrets of the past, her past.
There are twists and turns along the way and trust is an issue for these two because Cassidy kept secrets from Hunter back then and she is still now. Those secrets threaten their happiness and their lives as well as others lives.
I love this series. Ms. Freethy never disappoints me. Her characters are strong and sexy, independent and stubborn but above all they love with great passion. This book is about second chances as fate steps in. Loved every minute of this book as I have all of the Callaway stories in the series.
Hunter is a firefighter but for years he has been restless, not really sure why. He had dreams that went up in smoke when Cassidy left him but why she left was not for the reason he thought, not exactly.
Cassidy is forced to face her past when her old house burns down and Hunter finds a skeleton hidden in the walls after the fire is put out. This one incident leads the pair on a journey to discover the truth and unlock the secrets of the past, her past.
There are twists and turns along the way and trust is an issue for these two because Cassidy kept secrets from Hunter back then and she is still now. Those secrets threaten their happiness and their lives as well as others lives.
I love this series. Ms. Freethy never disappoints me. Her characters are strong and sexy, independent and stubborn but above all they love with great passion. This book is about second chances as fate steps in. Loved every minute of this book as I have all of the Callaway stories in the series.
November 14, 2018
Do you believe in second chances or are you more like, "Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me". Barbara Freethy writes a love story that grabs you by the heart strings, the characters suffered a bad ending to their first love leaving them with scars. Yet both strong and determine to live their lives and bury the wounds. For many that is the end of the story, but what if you are given a second chance? Would you take the leap or would you stay on the course that you have been on? One is a high risk that could bring more heartaches and the other was a sure thing.
I highly recommend this book, I doubt you will find a better written romance-suspense anywhere. The actions is consistent, holding my attention throughout the story. I found that it was hard to put it down, I just had to know how they got out of each predicament tossed in their path. Their romance that had been left in ashes, smoldering underneath and builds as the story grows but enough tension to make you wonder if there is a chance for them. Can they overcome their fears, the pain from the past and do they have it within them to make it work?
I highly recommend this book, I doubt you will find a better written romance-suspense anywhere. The actions is consistent, holding my attention throughout the story. I found that it was hard to put it down, I just had to know how they got out of each predicament tossed in their path. Their romance that had been left in ashes, smoldering underneath and builds as the story grows but enough tension to make you wonder if there is a chance for them. Can they overcome their fears, the pain from the past and do they have it within them to make it work?
September 12, 2018
Being placed in foster care after your parents tragically are killed in a car accident would be hard on any child. Bouncing from home to home, then seeing what can happen when you try to tell a person who should believe you what is going on, is terrifying. Running is Cassidy’s only option, except she must leave the boy she’s crazy about to save herself.
Hunter doesn’t understand why Cassidy left. She just disappeared with nothing but a text letting him know she’s leaving with another boy from the foster home. He is devastated. As time passes, a bit of him still wants to know what happened. Then, on his first shift back as a firefighter for SFFD, Cassidy’s old foster home burns to the ground and there is evidence that Cassidy might not have left after all.
What a wonderful read. Ms. Freethy knows how to spin a tale! Arson, attempted murder, suspense, road rage, secrets revealed, hospitalizations, family gatherings, a wedding, and of course, a HEA. This book has it all!
I’m loving the Calloway’s and can’t wait to visit with the next branch of the family!
Hunter doesn’t understand why Cassidy left. She just disappeared with nothing but a text letting him know she’s leaving with another boy from the foster home. He is devastated. As time passes, a bit of him still wants to know what happened. Then, on his first shift back as a firefighter for SFFD, Cassidy’s old foster home burns to the ground and there is evidence that Cassidy might not have left after all.
What a wonderful read. Ms. Freethy knows how to spin a tale! Arson, attempted murder, suspense, road rage, secrets revealed, hospitalizations, family gatherings, a wedding, and of course, a HEA. This book has it all!
I’m loving the Calloway’s and can’t wait to visit with the next branch of the family!
September 3, 2018
Secrets We Keep continues Barbara Freethy’s series on the Callaway cousins. On his first day back at work after a severe fall firefighter Hunter Callaway makes a gruesome discovery...a body hidden behind a wall in the burned out house where his once teenage girlfriend lived as a foster child. The discovery puts him back in touch with Cassidy, whom he has not seen for fourteen years. Old feelings are rekindled as they try to help authorities find out the details of the murder and arson. The foster home was not a happy place for Cassidy and her experience left her with trust issues, but other fosters tell a different story about the couple who took children in. Who is telling the truth about what actually happened there? This is classic Freethy...good plot, excellent writing, evasion, suspense, suspicion, and yes, a little heat. I devoured the advance copy of this book and am happy to voluntarily review. Most highly recommend!
September 14, 2018
Confronting the past while finding the future
An intriguing, suspenseful novel by Barbara Freethy. Cassidy and Hunter were high school sweethearts. Until she ran away. Although he was devastated he remembers her well. Now firefighter Hunter has uncovered a horrid secret from her past. He doesn't intend to let her run away again. Murder mystery, arson, foster care concerns all permeate this book. But the mystery and intrigue challenge our protagonists to confront the past and consider the future. Well written and fascinating the beautiful location of California's Bay Area sets the perfect picture for the apprehensive emotions of finding answers to difficult and dangerous questions. Add in the ever present Callaway family and their endearing involvement and you have a riveting, enigmatic tale of cold cases and fresh crimes with two irresistible characters chasing answers and their futures.
An intriguing, suspenseful novel by Barbara Freethy. Cassidy and Hunter were high school sweethearts. Until she ran away. Although he was devastated he remembers her well. Now firefighter Hunter has uncovered a horrid secret from her past. He doesn't intend to let her run away again. Murder mystery, arson, foster care concerns all permeate this book. But the mystery and intrigue challenge our protagonists to confront the past and consider the future. Well written and fascinating the beautiful location of California's Bay Area sets the perfect picture for the apprehensive emotions of finding answers to difficult and dangerous questions. Add in the ever present Callaway family and their endearing involvement and you have a riveting, enigmatic tale of cold cases and fresh crimes with two irresistible characters chasing answers and their futures.
October 1, 2018
Another installation of the Calloway series
Hunter is one of the cousins returning from a year-long Hiatus from firefighting. Who returns to the job and the first day back responds to a fire call. As they near the house he becomes very anxious because it is the house of his ex high school sweetheart, Cassidy. Cassidy who broke his heart and who left town suddenly no answers and no return phone calls to Hunter. As the firefighters put out the fire a body is discovered hidden in the walls. He panics and things what if it's Cassidy? She was one of the many foster care kids in this home. Testing proved it was not Cassidy but another one of the children staying there. Hunter wonders what is going on in the house and where is Cassidy. Story unfolds, more secrets exposed. Cassidy and Hunter work together to find the truths. Also
is there a second chance with them?
I received an arc copy for my honest review. Another installment of Barbara Freethy great storytelling
Hunter is one of the cousins returning from a year-long Hiatus from firefighting. Who returns to the job and the first day back responds to a fire call. As they near the house he becomes very anxious because it is the house of his ex high school sweetheart, Cassidy. Cassidy who broke his heart and who left town suddenly no answers and no return phone calls to Hunter. As the firefighters put out the fire a body is discovered hidden in the walls. He panics and things what if it's Cassidy? She was one of the many foster care kids in this home. Testing proved it was not Cassidy but another one of the children staying there. Hunter wonders what is going on in the house and where is Cassidy. Story unfolds, more secrets exposed. Cassidy and Hunter work together to find the truths. Also
is there a second chance with them?
I received an arc copy for my honest review. Another installment of Barbara Freethy great storytelling
September 3, 2018
Hunter Callaway is a firefighter. At the scene of a fire he discovers a body in the walls of the garage. The house is the home of his former high school sweetheart, Cassidy Ellison. Cassidy was in the foster care system. The night before the prom they were supposed to attend together, Cassidy sends Hunter a message that she is leaving town with another guy. Hunter hasn’t seen or heard from Cassidy since that night. Now she is a suspect in the death. Hunter has never gotten over Cassidy.
His book is part of the Calllaway Cousins series but could be read as a stand alone. I do recommend all the books in the series. There is a mystery along with a romance in this book. It is a fast read with a good plot and interesting characters. I thought I had the ending figured out but there was a twist I didn’t see. Thank you to the author for an advanced readers copy.
His book is part of the Calllaway Cousins series but could be read as a stand alone. I do recommend all the books in the series. There is a mystery along with a romance in this book. It is a fast read with a good plot and interesting characters. I thought I had the ending figured out but there was a twist I didn’t see. Thank you to the author for an advanced readers copy.
September 4, 2018
This book is what Barbara Freethy does best! A sweet, sexy love story...2 protagonists whose chemistry is off the charts with just enough danger and intrigue to ratchet up the tension.
Cassidy and Hunter met at 16. Cassidy was a foster child in an unhappy situation and Hunter was the one bright spot in her life...but she ran away right before prom and left Hunter devastated. 14 years later Hunter is a firefighter called to the scene of a fire at the house where Cassidy once lived. Because of a gruesome find in the walls of the house they are thrown back together. Can they learn to trust each other again? Cassidy's life may depend on it.
Barbara Freethy has created a big, sprawling, loving family that I enjoy revisiting from time to time. I can't wait to take part in their next adventure!
Cassidy and Hunter met at 16. Cassidy was a foster child in an unhappy situation and Hunter was the one bright spot in her life...but she ran away right before prom and left Hunter devastated. 14 years later Hunter is a firefighter called to the scene of a fire at the house where Cassidy once lived. Because of a gruesome find in the walls of the house they are thrown back together. Can they learn to trust each other again? Cassidy's life may depend on it.
Barbara Freethy has created a big, sprawling, loving family that I enjoy revisiting from time to time. I can't wait to take part in their next adventure!
September 7, 2018
I love Barbara Freethy’s Callaway series of books. I think I have read each and every one of them. The new one ‘Secrets We Keep” is just as wonderful as all the previous Callaway books. They can be read separately but I like to remember the characters from previous books. This one involves Hunter and Cassidy. They were high school sweethearts until one night when Cassidy disappeared. Hunter is now a fireman and ends up running into Cassidy after a fire occurred in the house she lived in as a foster child. This book involves a mystery, love, and danger. All of these make for an exciting story that will grab you in chapter one and not let go until the end of the book. I know you will enjoy this book and I bet you even want to go back and start at the beginning of the Callaway series.
September 12, 2018
Hunter and Cassidy were high school sweethearts. Cassidy broke Hunter’s heart when she ran away with no warning. After 14 years they are brought back together under disturbing circumstances.
The first fire call Hunter goes on after returning to work after his injury is to the foster home Cassidy was placed. Not only does the fire bring back memories of Cassidy, Hunter also discovers a murder that involves someone from Cassidy’s past.
As a Hunter and Cassidy work together to solve the murder there is no denying the chemistry between them. Can they learn to trust each other and put the past behind them?
Many Calloway’s make appearances - with the arson and murder case. But there is the wedding of Annie and Griffin which brings everyone together and also solidifies Hunter and Cassidy’s future.
The first fire call Hunter goes on after returning to work after his injury is to the foster home Cassidy was placed. Not only does the fire bring back memories of Cassidy, Hunter also discovers a murder that involves someone from Cassidy’s past.
As a Hunter and Cassidy work together to solve the murder there is no denying the chemistry between them. Can they learn to trust each other and put the past behind them?
Many Calloway’s make appearances - with the arson and murder case. But there is the wedding of Annie and Griffin which brings everyone together and also solidifies Hunter and Cassidy’s future.
September 12, 2018
SECRETS WE KEEP By Barbara Freethy. Calloways 14. / Cousins 6
We meet Hunter, age 30 with questions of who and what he wants in life.
Not quite happy to be back, or choices he was making, something inside was missing. Hunter thought he knew the girl he had loved in the past. Cassidy is now a suspect, she is running from the police, Hunter is always there for her. After seeing the house she had lived in as a foster kid, now on fire, and. finding bones inside garage. He was afraid they were of her. They need answers, , his friends want him to move on, yet he hasn’t since she left, or did she. A riveting plot, which draws you in from the beginning.The pain and emotions..that has haunted Hunter and Cassidy all these years. If they got answers life and love may then come for them. Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion.
September 12, 2018
I loved Hunter's story! After previously learning about his road trip I couldn't wait to find out what was bugging him - and then we meet Cassidy. What a beautiful woman - I almost want to say damaged soul but it was more like haunted. Cassidy had some awful shadows that were in her past that shaped who she became. The strength to chase her dream despite her circumstance was amazing and definitely impressed Hunter though knowing she ran hurt him immensely. It speaks to his character that he though he could have helped or made a difference to her situation even though he was a child as well. I loved the way that despite the chaos surrounding them finding each other again, Hunter found that Cassidy settled that restlessness he was feeling. The suspense was amazing and the end certainly had a twist I wasn't quite expecting. Loved the latest addition to the Callaways!
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