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Order of the Bear #2
The Secret Lies in the Shade
I used to be a normal girl, but all that changed when a vampire tried to eat me, because I'm apparently supposed to be a freakishly powerful witch... so much for being normal!
Steel says that the wards aren't holding like they used to. More and more vampires are slipping through the cracks, like the one that tried to kill me in the woods! He fears there will come a point where even the nightly patrols of his shifter order won't be enough to keep the bloodsuckers imprisoned where they belong.
The stakes are high, but I never asked for any of this. If you look up HERO in the dictionary I guarantee you won't find my picture there. I'm just smart enough to be terrified of my ineptitudes being responsible for the end of the human race. Do I really have it in me to be all Merliny? And what does it mean for the world if I don't?
I don't want to do this, but it's not looking like I'll have much of a choice.
***Warning***
My heart goes out to anyone who has ever experienced, or been close to a victim of rape. As such, I wanted to give advance warning that there is a rape scene in this story, and that it might understandably be too much for some to handle. I'd advise against reading this if the subject matter is to difficult to stomach.
This is book 2 in the Order of the Bear Series, and the books need to be read in order for optimal enjoyment. You can get book 1 here for free: https: //www.barnesandnoble.com/w/something-sh...
Scroll up and get your copy today!
Steel says that the wards aren't holding like they used to. More and more vampires are slipping through the cracks, like the one that tried to kill me in the woods! He fears there will come a point where even the nightly patrols of his shifter order won't be enough to keep the bloodsuckers imprisoned where they belong.
The stakes are high, but I never asked for any of this. If you look up HERO in the dictionary I guarantee you won't find my picture there. I'm just smart enough to be terrified of my ineptitudes being responsible for the end of the human race. Do I really have it in me to be all Merliny? And what does it mean for the world if I don't?
I don't want to do this, but it's not looking like I'll have much of a choice.
***Warning***
My heart goes out to anyone who has ever experienced, or been close to a victim of rape. As such, I wanted to give advance warning that there is a rape scene in this story, and that it might understandably be too much for some to handle. I'd advise against reading this if the subject matter is to difficult to stomach.
This is book 2 in the Order of the Bear Series, and the books need to be read in order for optimal enjoyment. You can get book 1 here for free: https: //www.barnesandnoble.com/w/something-sh...
Scroll up and get your copy today!
378 pages, Paperback
Published July 23, 2017
16 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
May 16, 2019
Crystal Banks had pursued her education with the goal of working in the publication business. But after catching her boyfriend, Bryce, with another woman, she ditched him and he retaliated by using his family connections to get her blacklisted with all the major publishing houses. So when she saw lots of people waiting for interviews at Steel Corp., she joined the line and became personal assistant to billionaire Eric Steel. He took her by helicopter to an enormous 100-bedroom estate. The huge foyer was beautiful – until she looked up at the mural showing vampires feasting on humans while witches and shifters worked together to destroy the vampires. That image gave her nightmares!
Crystal has finally accepted that she is a real witch, descended from a long line of very powerful witches, which is actually why she got the job with Steel Corp. in the first place. Crystal’s crazy personality will either amuse or get on your nerves, but you definitely won’t feel neutral about her! Steel is her boyfriend and lover, and she does seem to worry about their relationship somewhat. With the wards getting weaker because the generations of witches who powered it were becoming weaker, more and more vampires are coming through, increasing the danger for everyone. So there is plenty going on!
This was a fun book to read. The twists and turns in the story line will keep up the suspense for the reader. If you haven’t read Book 1 first, it would be a good idea to do so. The excitement is increasing in this one, and there is still more to go! Grab your copy and prepare for the surprises!
Crystal has finally accepted that she is a real witch, descended from a long line of very powerful witches, which is actually why she got the job with Steel Corp. in the first place. Crystal’s crazy personality will either amuse or get on your nerves, but you definitely won’t feel neutral about her! Steel is her boyfriend and lover, and she does seem to worry about their relationship somewhat. With the wards getting weaker because the generations of witches who powered it were becoming weaker, more and more vampires are coming through, increasing the danger for everyone. So there is plenty going on!
This was a fun book to read. The twists and turns in the story line will keep up the suspense for the reader. If you haven’t read Book 1 first, it would be a good idea to do so. The excitement is increasing in this one, and there is still more to go! Grab your copy and prepare for the surprises!
April 26, 2019
The Secret Lies in the Shade by Josie Walker is the second book in the series. In this book Crystal finally acknowledges who and what she truly is meant to do in life. She spends a great deal of time continually fretting about her relationship with her billionaire boss/lover Eric Steel. This story was so full of paranormal excitement and sexual tension that I couldn’t put it down. I loved the interplay between the characters and the snarky comments that Crystal makes throughout the story. But you better watch out, this book definitely ends in an unbelievable twist that is most unexpected. This plot twist makes me long to read the third book in the series. If you enjoy hot, steamy love scenes, scintillating dialogue, exciting heart-stopping turns, and world ending suspense then you will love this book as much as I did. The Secret Lies in the Shade is a phenomenal tale of a surprising paranormal world like none other.
April 16, 2019
Crystal was oh so rudely interrupted mid coitus by Lauren the Haughty.
and if the witch operates more on instinct, and with intent, then those things should really seem to be what one focuses on, no?
sadly, Crystal and Steel get their wires more than a bit crossed, and she has more than one really truly awful experience - a supernatural armageddon is on the list.
rather than worrying just about her relationship, now worry for the world - at least the near one - is on her list.
Will Steel be by her side?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
and if the witch operates more on instinct, and with intent, then those things should really seem to be what one focuses on, no?
sadly, Crystal and Steel get their wires more than a bit crossed, and she has more than one really truly awful experience - a supernatural armageddon is on the list.
rather than worrying just about her relationship, now worry for the world - at least the near one - is on her list.
Will Steel be by her side?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 26, 2019
This is an absolutely fantastic series but you do need to start from book 1 to understand the storyline and the characters but be warned there is a rape scene in this story so if you are very sensitive to things like that then it’s best not to read this book. I loved Crystal’s and Eric’s story and I can’t wait until I read book 3, this is an amazing series/ story and I’m not going to give any spoilers to this one so if you have been following this series then you have something to look forward to with this book. This is an amazing story/ series and I highly recommend this book it’s definitely well worth the read.
May 2, 2019
This is book 2 in the series and you really need to have read book 1 prior to this otherwise you shall not fully understand what is happening. This story has lots of twists and turns and is full of suspense. There is a rape scene and so if this is a trigger for you then please be aware of it. Lots of supernatural goings on and interesting characters who have some great dialogue with each other. A great book to read. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 11, 2019
I've just discovered a fantastic new series I'm greatly looking forward to reading. I love to suspend disbelief and dive into a fantasy world. I found the first in the series a little slow while it set the stage for what was to come, but this one was full off intrigue and suspense and awesome characters, as it draw me in. Only draw back was occasionally I found the voice of Crystal as she narrated the story a little annoying at times.
Be warned, it does end on a cliff hanger, bonus next book is available and I'm about to dive in.
Be warned, it does end on a cliff hanger, bonus next book is available and I'm about to dive in.
April 27, 2019
After reading book one, my senses have been aching to read book two and find out how things are going for Crystal and Steel! They are such fascinating characters that I actually faltered and cried while Crystal was being raped by that evil vampire. I hate it but it won't stop me from wanting the rest of the story in the next book. Poor Crystal. She is suffering and broken. You will reunite her with Steel with all the happy trimmings, right?
May 9, 2019
The writing will draw you in after only a few pages and have you finishing the book in one sitting.
There is the perfect amount of angst and mystery to keep you hooked.
I loved how the relationship unfolded so we could see these amazing characters grow in ways they never expected.
I would suggest picking up a copy of both books asap you will not be disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There is the perfect amount of angst and mystery to keep you hooked.
I loved how the relationship unfolded so we could see these amazing characters grow in ways they never expected.
I would suggest picking up a copy of both books asap you will not be disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 30, 2019
Heart wrenching, painful, mysterious and thrilling, this book very beautifully picks up where book 1 left off and spins a tale of finding your true self.
I honestly did not expect book 2 to be so much better than book 1. The story touches you in a way I had not thought possible. It could be your story, my story anyone's story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I honestly did not expect book 2 to be so much better than book 1. The story touches you in a way I had not thought possible. It could be your story, my story anyone's story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 28, 2025
loved it !! love this series !! love Crystal and Steel... this is their story... a fast paced action paced drama... the wards is slowly unraveling.. and the real monsters are coming out, the vampires... Crystal is attacked by one in the forest... and now, she must save the world with Steel to help her... Crystal must accept that she is a real witch and must learn fast !!! so good !!!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 25, 2017
This is a fantastic series. Has everything you want in a great read lies, deceit, betrayal, action, and of course steamy romance. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series. I voluntarily read and review this ARC no minority compensation was received the opinions I have expressed are my own.
April 27, 2019
This is the second book in the series and it did not disappoint. The storyline continues to deliver enough twist and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat. I loved the characters being so well developed and strong.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 4, 2019
The Secret Lies In The Shade by Josie Walker is one of those books you OMG!!!!!! and that you want more. This is book number two in this terrific series that I love reading very much. I highly recommend this to everyone who loves reading about bear shifters in thier stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 5, 2019
She had been a normal girl until a vampire tries to eat her. Now she is being told she is a witch and the wards were failing which meant more vampires were getting through. Can she stop them all? Will she be able to? What is going to happen? See what will
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 22, 2019
This book is the second in the Order of the Bear series and I highly recommend it. It is a fantastic read with fabulous characters. There is a ton of action, intrigue, suspense, and a cliffhanger ending. There are very hot and steamy love scenes as well.
WARNING: there is a rape scene in this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
WARNING: there is a rape scene in this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 24, 2025
Wonderful world!
Yes, this was an enjoyable, well written series. I love the characters and the plot however, the main character was virtually unbelievable.! She needs to see a psychiatrist! Her insecurity and her reasoning, ability was completely sup par. Leaving me want to kick her.
Yes, this was an enjoyable, well written series. I love the characters and the plot however, the main character was virtually unbelievable.! She needs to see a psychiatrist! Her insecurity and her reasoning, ability was completely sup par. Leaving me want to kick her.
September 4, 2025
I am new to this author, and I liked it. The characters and the storyline were great. This is Book 2 of the series - The Order of the Bear. Bear Shifters, Witches, steam, romance. I liked it and can't wait to read the next one.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 18, 2018
I thought the first book was amazing but damn this one blew it out of the water. I loved getting to see more of Crystals backstory and getting to learn the truth about a certain woman. I can't wait to see what happens next and hope that we get the happily ever after we all deserve.
December 3, 2018
Wait!
Can't wait to find out what happens next! The excitement, agony, and despair that Steel and Crystal are facing! Ugh! Excellent story! But I've for to get to the next book! No sleep tonight!
Can't wait to find out what happens next! The excitement, agony, and despair that Steel and Crystal are facing! Ugh! Excellent story! But I've for to get to the next book! No sleep tonight!
March 25, 2019
Wow!!
This book was absolutely thrilling from beginning to end! Crystal and Steels relationship, however much new, was as awesome as ever. I really can't wait to read the next book in the series, this one was definitely worth buying and reading!
This book was absolutely thrilling from beginning to end! Crystal and Steels relationship, however much new, was as awesome as ever. I really can't wait to read the next book in the series, this one was definitely worth buying and reading!
April 27, 2019
An excellent book that will keep you gripped and wanting more. Can they hold on out together. I hope so. Storyline superb and characters are great. Looking forward to the next book. I received a copy via Booksprout and this is my honest review
May 16, 2019
The second book of this series will have you gripped and turning pages. With characters you can’t fail to love you will be flicking pages eagerly to devour more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 4, 2019
A good part two to this story. Lovely tale so far can't wait for rest of it. Def worth the read. I love the main characters such a fiery combo. They didn't disappoint in this one either
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 2, 2025
This story picks up from book 1 and is not a standalone. There are also potential triggers so check out the content warning before diving in. That said, this story had me hooked and I enjoyed reading it.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 10, 2025
I love this series! Crystal and Eric are awesome and well developed characters. This book is for you if you like romance, spice, mystery, suspense and surprise twists! I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 2, 2018
OMG. The ending of his book was horrible. I didn’t see any of that coming at all. Wow this came from left field and I was not prepared.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2019
I flew through this book.
Lots of bloody action. Warning there is a rape scene. It is part of the story. These bad guys are Grimmer than the Hollywood version.
Lots of bloody action. Warning there is a rape scene. It is part of the story. These bad guys are Grimmer than the Hollywood version.
July 20, 2019
Well worth reading!
August 16, 2019
The SECRET Lies In The Shade
The Order Of The Bear Book 2
Josie Walker
Great Story. Loved the imagination, and the storyline. I did not want to put it down.
The Order Of The Bear Book 2
Josie Walker
Great Story. Loved the imagination, and the storyline. I did not want to put it down.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews