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Jilted #2

Veracity

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This isn’t the life I want.
Trapped in one random hotel room after another by a screaming crowd of fans and paparazzi. No friends or family nearby. Nothing that really makes me happy, except my music.
Music is my only love, the only thing that makes my heart beat fast and my blood run hot, until her. Kinley Matthews, the owner of the Foxhaven Resort, is nothing like the women I’m accustomed to dating, but she’s everything I need.

And she hates the sight of me.

Everything I’ve done has been for family.
That’s what I tell myself when the memory of her laugh seeps into my day.
I didn’t have a choice.
That’s my excuse when her devastated expression haunts my nights.
The truth is, every second of pain and heartache I suffer, I deserve it.
She loved me, and I destroyed her.

*This is the conclusion of Kinley and Holt's story. It's a full length novel with no cliffhanger.

210 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 16, 2018

131 people are currently reading
251 people want to read

About the author

S.M. Shade

40 books1,668 followers
S.M. Shade writes spicy romantic comedies and steamy contemporary romances with relatable characters. Whether it's a good laugh or a good cry, she likes to grab you by your emotions and make you feel.
An unashamed Croc enthusiast and poetry nerd, she can usually be found listening to Indie Rock on repeat and watching birds.

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5 stars
247 (53%)
4 stars
134 (28%)
3 stars
68 (14%)
2 stars
13 (2%)
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3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
Profile Image for Laura.
250 reviews9 followers
November 30, 2018
I was so looking forward to this book. It’s the second in a two book series. I wasn’t disappointed.
A fabulous conclusion to Holt and Kinleys story.
I’m a huge fan of S.M Shade, she’s never written a book that I didn’t love.
Such a beautiful cover too! (Not as good as the toilet brush though 😂)
Profile Image for Irma *Irma The Book Whisperer*.
1,736 reviews148 followers
December 24, 2018
She's the light, and I'm runing towards her, but she could also be the train that runs me ower and flattens the future into something I have to face alone.

One of my favourite couples ever! If they were real, I'd wish to be their friend. I'm in love with the thought of them and with the story itself.

S.M. is slowly becoming one of my favourite authors.

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Profile Image for Lisa Rangel.
240 reviews47 followers
December 16, 2018
Veracity by S.M Shade was everything we had hoped for. We finally get to see how everything unfolds with Holt and Kinley. We get the conclusion that we all have been waiting for. Throughout the book you get its twists and turns, just like on a ride. You never know what turn is coming or what to expect. You get the betrayal and the excitement and the surprised with this ride. So when you are finally coming to an end you don’t want it to end.
S.M shade never disappoints in her books. She gives you the feels through every character of hers and we can see through there point of views...
Profile Image for Nerdy Dirty & Flirty.
3,985 reviews363 followers
December 17, 2018
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This book picked up right were Duplicity left off, and then the shocks and surprises quickly followed. The minute I started reading I was immediately hooked and didn't want to put it down. So many emotions, so much angst, but a beautifully told story.

Every time I would start to get comfortable or think things might be steadying, there was another twist that kept everything interesting, or sad. There were moments that made me very very sad. But even in those moments I was in awe of how well written it was.

S.M. Shade tugged at my heartstrings and made me tear up but also made me so happy I had the chance to read this story. The ending was perfect and exactly what this story needed. I loved the characters (most of them anyway) and I cannot wait to hopefully revisit them in the next book of the series. I highly recommend this duet.
Profile Image for B. C. Booklover.
783 reviews55 followers
February 10, 2020
Another winner from SM Shade 🎶

After having read and been wowed by Duplicity, did NOT see that ending coming at all btw, so of course I had to immediately dive right into this next book, Veracity. The titles were as cleverly thought out as the content within them. Anyone that knows me at all knows I have a weakness for rockstar/musician themed romances...having read S. M. Shade's amazingly suspenseful and heartfelt duet-beginning with Rockstar- Interrupted (if you haven't read them..DO!), I knew I needed to read more from this author, asap! She kept me glued to these stories I've read so far, no matter how much sleep might be losing or the price paid for it the next day!

When a hot celebrity guitar toting musician books an extended stay in Kinley's beautiful hotel and resort, she rolls out the red carpet hoping that nothing goes wrong with this wild card to ruin her late father's legacy, left for her to continue. Kinley prides herself on her well trained staff, the excellent services provided and of course their utmost professional behavior and discretion. That all flies out the window when Marcus Singleton, the privileged ahole, shows up with his obnoxious attitude and puts everything she's worked for to the test...over and over and over again.

Here in Veracity, after 'you know who' has done what he's done, even if it wasn't intentional, the truth is out now, has spectacularly hit the fan leaving Kinley alone with her tears, a shattered heart and no trust left to spare. What Marcus, aka Holt wouldn't do to have Kinley look at him the way she did before he let her down. Having to leave her, being away from her has made him second guess everything he thought was important to help his family. If only she would listen and maybe try to forgive what was out of his hands all along. Will she let him explain?

Veracity- truthfulness- is what a majority of this part of the story is all about. Sometimes it's hard to hear, difficult to tell, not always easy to forgive when you do hear it. Love might be able to conquer all..maybe...or kill itself trying! There are in this case, 2 sides to every coin, if you chose to look at what is right there in front of you.

So many sweet and often humorous interactions between all the wonderful characters who feel like family (one or two, not so much!) that make this book, which was my favorite of the two, shine especially bright for me. Kinley's Foxhaven resort has become a home or home away from home for the friends and family of her heart and soul. It's a beautiful, fun place where all thing seems possible. So watch what happens when it all comes together, albeit with some bumps and ditches along the way. Hope you love the ride to happiness as much as I did. Rockstar romance..yes, unexpected happenings...yes, but just so much more....
Profile Image for Candyce Kirk.
1,352 reviews52 followers
December 18, 2018
This has been an anticipated book for me since I read the ending of Duplicity! I did not see that twist coming. Veracity starts off right where we left off. Both Kinley and Holt are dealing with heartbreak in their own way. Kinley is dealing with it a way she never thought she would, just like tv characters. Holt has turned to nature and music to help hear his heart.
Tragedy brings them back together, but that's not where everything ends. Veracity is an emotional rollercoaster and just when you think the characters can breather, this author hits you with another twist. Even though things didn't go great during this book, I liked the fact that it wasn't something trying to mess up with their relationship. It was refreshing to have a book that way, even though the events happening here were not ones I saw coming!
I love all the characters in this book that are there for Kinley. Her hotel staff is more like a family and I love all the changes she makes to this resort. She's such a kind person who is there for people when needed. Holt hasn't had an easy life, but it's clear when he loves something he does it with his whole heart!
The ending was bittersweet, but I loved it! Veracity is filled with romance, family, humor and definitely some intense moments. While Marcus really annoyed me, it's clear there's more to him. I'm excited to see what his story will be!
Profile Image for Cali Gal’s.
1,225 reviews146 followers
December 16, 2018
OMG this was an highly anticipated read. I devoured it as soon as I got it. Cliffhangers are bittersweet for me and I am picky about the ones I choose. I have been dying to finish Holt and Kinley’s story and I am not disappointed in its telling. In this book we are thrown back into it by Kinley dealing with Holt’s dishonesty. She is so strong you can’t help but admire her. What is most impressive is how she shows such heart after being wronged. Holt you can’t help but love even when you see his missteps. This story is full of family, surprises, and loss. Plan to experience a variety of emotions. I did! I laughed, cried, fanned myself during the steamy, and had a heart palpitations trying to anticipate what happens next. I definitely had some characters that I love to hate. EEK. OK I can’t wait to see how this author is going to make me fall in love with Holt’s brother. He is SUCH A JERK! That is the beauty of this author though. Haha. Happy Reading!
Profile Image for debturk1970_bookvibes.
1,851 reviews18 followers
November 27, 2018
A Wonderful Conclusion To This Duet!!💖🙏💙✨🌟

Veracity begins 1 week after the shocking conclusion of Duplicity 😱

Heartbroken, Kinley is dragged out of bed so she can start putting herself back together, plus the Resort needs her.👍 She's really struggling with the fact that Holt lied so much to her - why had he made out that they wanted the same things & they'd have a future together? It was so cruel!!💔

Heartbroken, Holt is living in an RV. Hiking, writing lyrics & music. He's beating himself up for being a coward, for not telling Kinley the truth about himself and Marcus. Especially because of the horror of the way it was revealed!😳😢 He doubts she'll ever forgive him & who could blame her with what Marcus nearly did!!😲💔

Holt & Kinley are drawn back together in a time of great need. Compassion & friendship cost nothing after all, as long as that's all it is!!👍

Will friendship lead them back together? Will their heartbreak be mended? Will Marcus drive them apart again? Are there bigger secrets in their future?

I enjoyed this book as much as Duplicity. There are some BIG shocks in store, so have your hankies ready 😲😢 The Author lulled me into a false sense of security with Veracity, time & again, then BANG 💥 - my world was blown apart for one reason or another!!😭😍 This is a must read 🌟✨

Debbie, 1970, UK
Profile Image for Dawn.
Author 14 books220 followers
December 31, 2018
3.5 stars.
I couldn't wait for this book to find out what happened.
Kinley and Holt had amazing chemistry together.
Grayson added a nice touch to the story, and Heather's part wasn't surprising, as it seemed her motivation all along was to make her daughter's life difficult.
The reason for my 3.5 stars was that although I liked the story, I found myself skimming in parts.
But, Marcus' story will be an exciting read, so I'm looking forward to that.
Profile Image for Rain.
2,587 reviews21 followers
July 16, 2021
Like the first one, this has drama, but it isn’t overly angsty. I mean this line says it all... No spoilers as this was basically the last paragraph in the first book but I hide it juuuust in case.

Lots of family love in this one with the same great side characters.
Profile Image for Natasha.
585 reviews33 followers
November 27, 2018
After the ending of Duplicity, I was dying to find out what happens next to Kinsley, Holt, and the rest of the characters and couldn't wait to get my hands on this book! 

Kinsley is trying to move on with her life, after what happened with Holt. Was everything between them a lie? But when Holt needs her, she wastes no time to be there for him and his family. 

Holt has been living in solitude- guilt over what he did to Kinsley consumes him, until he gets a phone call that his family needs him to be there, he drops what he's doing. Surprised when Kinsley shows up to be there for him, maybe there is a chance that he can make things right between them after all. 

Will Kinsley forgive him, or does the betrayal run too deep? 

I really enjoyed this book. It's a different take on the rockstar romance, and this continues Holt and Kinsley's story from Duplicity. I still loved the characters, and loved seeing how their story goes. It still brought out a few emotions, and was such a great read. I stayed up way too late just to finish it, but enjoyed every minute with these characters. 4⭐ out of 5⭐. 
Profile Image for Kelly G (Now Accepting Book Boyfriend Applications).
1,110 reviews87 followers
July 24, 2021
Nice wrap up to the story of Holt and Kinley! This book was packed with some crazy revelations! Just because they got back together doesn't mean all was well! They're was still so much more for these 2 to go through. I can't wait to read Marcus's book!!!
Profile Image for KDRBCK.
7,381 reviews67 followers
November 29, 2018
Veracity by S.M. Shade is the second book in her Duplicity series and is not a standalone. You must read the books in order, the previous book is Jilted.
Veracity picks up where Jilted was left off. Kinley Matthews, the young resort owner fell fast and hard for Marcus Singleton. But nothing was as it seemed at the time, it was all a big fat lie. Kinley broke up with Marcus - aka Holt Singleton, twin and stand in of Marcus. She's devastated,, their whole relationship was build on lies, a lot of lies. She just wants to forget it ever happened and move on.
Holt knows he made a grave mistake and mourns the loss of Kinley. And he would do everything to win her back. He's a good guy, but there's still his family and the toxic relationship to his brother. He's between a rock and a hard place.

Veracity is a story full of heartache, tears and struggles, victories and losses. Veracity contains just the right amount of drama, danger and action I love in a great story. I read the previous book, Jilted and couldn't wait to get my hands on this next installment. I started reading and was hooked from chapter one. I connected very easily with the characters and cheered for the hero and the heroine to get their so well deserved HEA.
Favorite Quote: " No matter how bad things may get, there's hope hidden in places we never expect... ". The next book in the series 'll be Marcus story in Toxicity.
Profile Image for Katydidnt_doit.
174 reviews4 followers
November 29, 2018
WOW!! WOW!! WOW!! What a conclusion to Holt and Kinley's story. I have been anxiously awaiting this book since that shocking cliffhanger in Duplicity and I was not disappointed. Shade definitely pulled out the big guns for this story. Betrayal, unexpected love connections, surprises, twists and turns. It felt like the most exhilarating amusement park ride. I found myself with sweaty palms, a racing heart, seized lungs, screaming and at the end I wanted to do it all over again.

From the very first chapter I was enmeshed in how Holt and Kinley would find their way back to each other. How do you forgive someone that has deceived you and broken your heart? Kinley is a strong, independent woman who loves with her whole heart and cares deeply for other people. Holt hasn't had the best life, finding solace in music. He feels alone and sometimes isolated, but Kinley can really SEE him. They are the perfect for each other.

I can't wait for more books in this series!!


Profile Image for Kath Dee at CLiK Books.
777 reviews26 followers
December 10, 2018
Veracity (Jilted Book #2) - S M Shade
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

It all started with Duplicity - Book #1 in the new Jilted series but book #2 just takes you further into this fabulous story.

Kinley Matthews, owner of the Foxhaven Resort, thought she’d found her forever man in Holt Singleton but happy ever after was just a heartbreak away for her, especially with a huge lie coming between her and Holt.

Holt Singleton thought that Kinley Matthews was his future but his own deceit brought his dream of a future with her, crashing down. She sent him out of her life and he can’t see a way to regain her trust.

Such a torturous connection for these two but one that will leave you emotionally satisfied. Kinley, Holt and the whole cast of characters have definitely taken up residence as firm favourites of mine. I look forward to reading Marcus’s story in 2019.

S M Shade has definitely delivered another winner with this series.
Profile Image for Quincey Conway.
177 reviews8 followers
December 17, 2018
Heartache, love, drama! It's the perfect read!

Veracity is the Concto Duplicity and all I can saw is wow! I am in love with kinley and Holt. Kinley feels betrayed by family and the the one perseron she fell in love with. Holt who tried to protect his family and help fell in love but never told Kinley the truth before it came out.
When devastation hit his life and his brother relapses and nearly kills him self and their father Holt rushed back to be by their side, feeling alone and lost Kinley shows up to offer a should and help him through everything.
Holt loves kinley and wants to win her back, but kinley keeps him at a distance, feeling her heart can't handle another heartbreak.
Just as things get back on track another bomb drops and once again everything is at stake. Can Kinley and holt overcome these obstacles and find their happiness? This book gives it all and leaves you wanting more. I can't wait for the next installment of this series!
671 reviews
February 17, 2025
I only read this book because I already owned the paperback. The relationship between Kinley and Holt was cute. The book was entertaining but I'm honestly depressed at how much Marcus' attempted rape of Kinley was swept under the rug. Especially when you contrast that with the female rapist (which I agree, it's also despicable) and let's not forget that Marcus was also supposed to get his own book. Marcus continues to act despicably in this book and I obviously had no sympathy for him.

Otherwise, the book is well written with an interesting story, while this book was a lot more sedate than the last one it never got boring. I loved the "hotel family" and felt attached to many of the side-characters especially Greyson.

This would have been 4 stars on story alone but as much I tried to rate this book on it's own merit, I just couldn't separate the cliffhanger of the last book with this book.

3 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Wickedly Sweet & Synful Book Blog Synclare Moss.
835 reviews142 followers
December 14, 2018
Bloody brilliant read! This series is so incredible. It gives you all feels and then something more.
I’m still reeling! Just when I thought I knew what was happening...PLOT TWIST! The secondary characters are so incredible. I really hope that get their own books.
I can’t wait for Toxicity (Marcus’s story) I’m hoping to learned more of Jilted backstory in it.
Bravo and thank you to S.M.Shade!
~BREAKDOWN OF RATINGS~

Plot~ 5/5
Main Characters~ 5/5

Secondary Characters~ 5/5 outstanding supporting characters!

The Feels~ 5/5
Pacing~ 5/5
Addictiveness~5/5
Theme or Tone~ 5/5
Flow (Writing Style)~ 5/5
Backdrop (World Building)~ 5/5
Originality~ 5/5
Ending~ 5/5
Book Cover~ Magnificent cover
Series~ Jilted Series
Source~ Kindle eBook ~ ARC for honest review


Would I read more from this author? YES~ always
Would I recommend this book? YES
Profile Image for Kelly.
660 reviews15 followers
December 21, 2018
An emotional and satisfying conclusion for Kinley and Holt

Book 2 in the Jilted series, since book 1 first ends on a cliffhanger, make sure you read that first.

I loved how much Kinley and Holt had in common and I loved how they both try to do the right thing, and of course we get more of all those great secondary characters from the first book as well. More unexpected plot twists as while I was waiting for the shoe to drop in this one, it was more than one shoe and neither was what I expected.

An emotional and satisfying conclusion for Kinley and Holt, l was even happy with the direction for the a-hole character from book 1 (trying to avoid spoilers here). The author definitely has me intrigued to get that character’s story. I’m hooked on this series and looking forward to the third book. 5 stars

B2B Kelly
883 reviews5 followers
December 5, 2018
This series has as many twist and turns as a ride at the fair, and just like at the end of the ride you have a big smile on your face when it's over. This is the second part of the opening duet and it is every bit as good as the first book. Holt has been missing Kinley since the whole disaster that was the revelation of who he really was. Kinley has been trying to rebuild her life but her fake smiles aren't fooling those she loves. When tragedy strikes the Singleton family she can't he back from rushing to be with Holt and so the second chance they have both been desperately wanting has a chance to bloom.

This book has so many things going on it could have been a disaster but is so well written that the different issues and dramas flow seamlessly.

I can't wait for the next book!!!
Profile Image for Felicia.
102 reviews12 followers
February 1, 2019
Got all the feel goods

I’m not one for recaps so if that’s what you are looking for you wont find it here - I’m always interested in what the book made someone feel. For me that a true test for all authors.

I have to say I wasn’t a fan so much of the first book. I found that one to be quite predictable. With this portion of the book I found myself all in my feels. I loved the way she showed what a true test of love is. If you love someone as deeply as you say you will always do your best to stand by there side. No Matter what!

There were quite a few predictable moments and one I wasn’t expecting that instantly brought me to tears. I look forward to the next installment.

I admit I’m hooked and need to see how it all plays out. Well done S.M. Shade - You got me ;)
Profile Image for Sarah.
1,447 reviews17 followers
July 19, 2021
Bittersweet

This book was a bit bittersweet, but still enjoyable.

I love the relationship between Holt and his dad. There was a lot in this about parental relationships and that's always an emotional button for me. A good father figure giving advice always warms my heart.

The first book ended on a cliffhanger, but wasn't too painful...that's what I love about this series. It's emotional without being too painful. A gentler read, but still spicy! The plot moved along well yet I didn't feel my anxiety growing out of control when times got tough for Kinley and Holt. And there were some trying times in this.

This duet has been an enjoyable experience and a lovely distraction from the heat. Loved it.
Profile Image for Jolene St Germain Triggs.
762 reviews9 followers
November 27, 2018
What an amazingly satisfying conclusion to Holt and Kinley's story! I loved every minute of this book, woke up early just to finish it. It really had my feelings all over the place. If you're like me, you'll need a box of tissues, but its so very worth every tear! Every obstacle that gets thrown at them brings them closer and stronger than before. This book has humor, lots of love, some amazing chemistry (super steamy too!) and several subplots that will keep you guessing until the end. This author really outdid herself with this one, if your a fan of hers, of forgiveness and second chances, of rock star romance, or just a fan of love in general you should give this duo a read!
Profile Image for Tara Horowitch.
663 reviews32 followers
November 30, 2018
I have dying for the book since the end of book 1 and let me tell you it doesn’t disappoint.

Veracity picks up a week after Duplicity ended with a heart broken Kinley and a broken Holt. It’s not till a turn of events brings them together and they have to face what happened. Compassion and friendship helped them heal and see that they still love each other despite what happened.

I enjoyed this book just as much as I did Duplicity, I was on the edge of my seat the whole time reading. It had me laughing and in tears. This is definitely a must read just make sure to read Duplicity before hand.
Profile Image for Terry.
1,499 reviews
December 10, 2018
4 1/2 Stars!

This is the conclusion to Holt & Kinley's story and honestly what a rollercoaster ride it was! There are so many twists and turns that kept me turning the pages and I couldn't put the book down. This book made me laugh, swoon and cry! Holt, Kinley and all the people around them went through so much ... my heart just broke for them! And I really can't say anything else without wrecking it for other ... but this story shouldn't be missed! Next up is Marcus' story ... I can't wait for that. What an a$$ he is and I wish Ms. Shade luck on making him a good guy!

I graciously received an ARC from the author in exchange for a honest review.
Profile Image for Rmederios.
97 reviews3 followers
December 16, 2018
Kinley has had enough. In the past couple of months she's had to deal with her father's death, trying to keep up her family's resort and just when she found love she's been betrayed.
She's still dealing with everyone close lying about her mom's death. She understands it but still. Then the man she gave her heart to lied about who he was from the start. All this has her questioning her judgement. So when a tragic accident happens and a second chance has been asked, can she give it?
To say that I absorbed this book like I do every book from Shade is an understatement. All I can say is yall gotta read it!!
Profile Image for Emma Johnston.
935 reviews29 followers
November 27, 2018
This was definitely the highest anticipated read for me after reading book one. I compeltely devoured this book in one sitting.

Holt and Kinley's story continued in this book, and after the trials in the last one I wasn't sure how they were going to overcome then. Then SM Shade hits you with a plot twist and holy wow!! Then she punches me in the feels.

I mean, seriously, talk about a rollercoaster of emotions!!

Another fabulous read from SM Shade and once again I'm so looking forward to the next one!
Profile Image for Melissa.
238 reviews3 followers
November 28, 2018
This book was soooooo good!!! The long awaited second book in the Jilted trilogy has come out and it was everything I hoped it'd be. I love Holt and Kinley so much. Marcus still needs a throat punch but nothing can be done about that. This book made me laugh out loud and get angry and it also brought me to tears. Job well done SM Shade. I can't wait to see how you end this trilogy since the first 2 books were so phenomenal! I definitely give this book 5 stars and would recommend it to anyone who loves a fantastic love story.
1,016 reviews
December 17, 2018
I absolutely love Holt and Kinley. I couldn't wait for this book after the cliffhanger in Duplicity. This book is the conclusion of their story and it's everything you could wish for. There is so much emotion in this book. I was all over the place and once I started it was impossible to stop. Both Kinley and Holt have suffered in their personal lives and have more hard times and surprises to get through before their happily ever after.

S.M. Shade has done it again and written an amazing story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews

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