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Beautiful Secrets #2
Deck of Shadows
I’m a damsel in distress. My heroes? Far from noble. Let the cards be dealt...
Every girl dreams of changing the world. For me, it’s my curse.
The leaders of the magical underworld want me destroyed, and my wicked stepmother seeks her revenge.
With three fierce champions at my side, I’m not alone. We took back my birthright—but keeping it is harder. My lovers pledged themselves to me and, in return, I entrusted them with my heart. A girl couldn’t ask for better men: a commanding vampire, a formidable warlock, and a primal lycan warrior.
My power and our love are forbidden. And when the cards of fate are dealt, they must decide if they can trust me, scars and all, or risk burning to ash with the world around me.
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Can three powerful heirs ascend their thrones and love the girl who rose from the ashes and now burns the world around her? Continue this reverse harem modern fairy tale full of secrets shrouded in shadows...
Every girl dreams of changing the world. For me, it’s my curse.
The leaders of the magical underworld want me destroyed, and my wicked stepmother seeks her revenge.
With three fierce champions at my side, I’m not alone. We took back my birthright—but keeping it is harder. My lovers pledged themselves to me and, in return, I entrusted them with my heart. A girl couldn’t ask for better men: a commanding vampire, a formidable warlock, and a primal lycan warrior.
My power and our love are forbidden. And when the cards of fate are dealt, they must decide if they can trust me, scars and all, or risk burning to ash with the world around me.
------
Can three powerful heirs ascend their thrones and love the girl who rose from the ashes and now burns the world around her? Continue this reverse harem modern fairy tale full of secrets shrouded in shadows...
216 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 28, 2019
154 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
June 28, 2022
I blinked and DECK OF SHADOWS was done, it was such a fast paced read! The story picks up immediately after book 1 and follows Ella as she tries to reconcile her new powers and status among the Syndicates. Of course her men, Merlin, Brom, and Romulus, are by her side every second and I loved how devoted this group was to each other. A lot of things happens and it all happens very quickly -- no drawn out fight sequences or long winded villain speeches. The fights to protect Ella from the Syndicate leaders who want her dead are brutal, fast, and efficient. DECK OF SHADOWS ends on another cliffhanger and I'm curious to see how this will all get resolved.
Content Warning: abusive parent; references to the death of a parent in a fire
Content Warning: abusive parent; references to the death of a parent in a fire
July 16, 2021
ok I'm bored, DNF 60%, knowing that the h is crying for about 30% of the book, it was a good try for me... NEXT!
August 29, 2019
Beautifully written with a sprinkling of violence and sexy times
The story continues where it left of in the last book, Ella/her Phoenix burning down the world.
I cant say much about this book without spoiling it, but i will say she learned alot more about her mom.
The book ends in a cliffhanger so be warned
The story continues where it left of in the last book, Ella/her Phoenix burning down the world.
I cant say much about this book without spoiling it, but i will say she learned alot more about her mom.
The book ends in a cliffhanger so be warned
June 14, 2019
DNF@72%
The first book really pulled me in. This one, I forced myself to read what I did. I have no idea what anyone looks like. But that could just be me, and I couldn’t remember who was wolf or vampire, but I could remember the magician because his name was ‘merlin’......yeah. It was just meh.
The first book really pulled me in. This one, I forced myself to read what I did. I have no idea what anyone looks like. But that could just be me, and I couldn’t remember who was wolf or vampire, but I could remember the magician because his name was ‘merlin’......yeah. It was just meh.
May 28, 2019
Deep breathing required for the end...
I don't even know where to begin. Marie is trying to kill me, I swear by it.
Deck of Shadows picks up right where House of Secrets left off. I started reading this and didn't put it down till the end where I promptly had a child like meltdown.
Eleanora gives us a character to root for, even when she is down she isn't out. This book was no different. About the time I started to worry, one of her not so contemporary 'knights' comes to her aid. I have found that there is no one without the other in her men. They are bonded together by a love for the same woman. I have a favorite but I would be lying if I said all three didn't have qualities that melt me.
I don't want to give anything away but trust me, if you liked House of Secrets pick up Deck of Shadows. You won't be disappointed.
I received an advanced readers copy of this work in exchange for my honest review.
I don't even know where to begin. Marie is trying to kill me, I swear by it.
Deck of Shadows picks up right where House of Secrets left off. I started reading this and didn't put it down till the end where I promptly had a child like meltdown.
Eleanora gives us a character to root for, even when she is down she isn't out. This book was no different. About the time I started to worry, one of her not so contemporary 'knights' comes to her aid. I have found that there is no one without the other in her men. They are bonded together by a love for the same woman. I have a favorite but I would be lying if I said all three didn't have qualities that melt me.
I don't want to give anything away but trust me, if you liked House of Secrets pick up Deck of Shadows. You won't be disappointed.
I received an advanced readers copy of this work in exchange for my honest review.
May 26, 2020
Much more action
I really enjoyed the first book on this series but this one had so much happening. So much drama and action, plus there were a few revelations which made some of the story come together more. The Cinderella retelling aspect of the story has kind of subsided in this book, in my opinion, and now the main focus is Ella learning to control her Phoenix powers while trying to stay alive.
There was plenty of steam in this book and even a little bit of MM which was hot. Even though there was plenty of steam, I don’t think it took anything away from the plot itself, just a nice addition to a fantastic story.
This book was a little too short for my liking but it could have just been because I tore through the book since I couldn’t put it down. I can’t wait to read the final book to see everything with Ella and her men fall into place so they can have their happy ever after ending.
I really enjoyed the first book on this series but this one had so much happening. So much drama and action, plus there were a few revelations which made some of the story come together more. The Cinderella retelling aspect of the story has kind of subsided in this book, in my opinion, and now the main focus is Ella learning to control her Phoenix powers while trying to stay alive.
There was plenty of steam in this book and even a little bit of MM which was hot. Even though there was plenty of steam, I don’t think it took anything away from the plot itself, just a nice addition to a fantastic story.
This book was a little too short for my liking but it could have just been because I tore through the book since I couldn’t put it down. I can’t wait to read the final book to see everything with Ella and her men fall into place so they can have their happy ever after ending.
May 28, 2019
Once again Marie Robinson has out done herself with Deck of Shadows. This contemporary, paranormal reverse harem is brilliant, emotional and everything you would want from this author and series.
The development of the characters, storyline, and well written interchangeable POV chapters will leave you on the edge of your seat wanting more and more.
There are definitely moments where you’ll need a breather as the storyline is intense and the heat level is high.
I highly recommend Deck of Shadows, and can’t wait to to read the next addition to Eleanora, Brom, Romulus and Merlin’s story.
The development of the characters, storyline, and well written interchangeable POV chapters will leave you on the edge of your seat wanting more and more.
There are definitely moments where you’ll need a breather as the storyline is intense and the heat level is high.
I highly recommend Deck of Shadows, and can’t wait to to read the next addition to Eleanora, Brom, Romulus and Merlin’s story.
June 25, 2019
I got part way through but will be a dnf for me. I wasn't fully loving the characters but her decision or thought to keep wearing the masks for events pissed me off. Like if you supposedly are accepting yourself now (which did seem some what quick) then great I'm all for it. But then stand your ground you have people who love you now, fuck what the rest think. if your scars make them uncomfortable that's on them not you. Maybe I'll come back and see how it plays out but right now just need to step away.
May 26, 2019
I was given an advanced reading in order to review. This is the second book and picks up right where the last ended. I appreciated how the author didn't waste words on recapping or revisiting scenes from the previous book. The characters are likable and the book is well-written. I am looking forward to the next installment.
If you're a fan of the RH genre, then I would recommend the series. I am hooked.
If you're a fan of the RH genre, then I would recommend the series. I am hooked.
May 31, 2019
Book two in an intense and action packed paranormal romance. Ella’s three men would do anything for her. They would kill or die to protect her. The devotion and love they show her is amazing. Add in that one is a vampire, another a shifter and the last is a warlock. Each of them are beyond powerful. But what Ella can do far outshines them. But it also means there are more bad guys out to kill her. So expect an insane amount of action and fighting as all four try to protect and love each other.
June 15, 2019
I really love this series! I read this book in one day because I just didn’t want to put it down and do anything else.
Ella is finally free and has the love of 3 incredible men, but she has a lot of enemies in the supernatural world, including her evil stepmother. She has unbelievable power, but she needs to learn how to control it before she burns the whole world down.
I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Ella is finally free and has the love of 3 incredible men, but she has a lot of enemies in the supernatural world, including her evil stepmother. She has unbelievable power, but she needs to learn how to control it before she burns the whole world down.
I can’t wait to see what happens next!
May 27, 2019
As good as the first and I'm looking forward to book 3. The beginning fight scene with Merlin was so well written, I easily pictured every detail. I love Ella and her mens relationship. They are slowly seeing her as the badass she is, even asking her to finish things if they can't. Great sex scenes and non stop action made for a quick read.
May 27, 2019
So much more than the first!
I really enjoyed the first book and I enjoyed this one even more. You really get to see more beneath the surface of the characters and the love and dedication truly shines thru. So happy to see Ella becoming braver and holding her head high. There is lots of great action, romance and some funny back and forth between the characters that I love. I did receive an arc.
I really enjoyed the first book and I enjoyed this one even more. You really get to see more beneath the surface of the characters and the love and dedication truly shines thru. So happy to see Ella becoming braver and holding her head high. There is lots of great action, romance and some funny back and forth between the characters that I love. I did receive an arc.
November 3, 2019
4
1 Star = DNF.
2 Star = Finished. Didn’t really enjoy.
3 Star = Finished. Story was neither good nor bad.
3.5 Star = Finished. Story was neither good nor bad. Will probably pick up next in series if there is one.
4 Star = Finished. Enjoyed story & would reread.
5 Star = Stole my heart! ❤️
1 Star = DNF.
2 Star = Finished. Didn’t really enjoy.
3 Star = Finished. Story was neither good nor bad.
3.5 Star = Finished. Story was neither good nor bad. Will probably pick up next in series if there is one.
4 Star = Finished. Enjoyed story & would reread.
5 Star = Stole my heart! ❤️
July 1, 2020
I loved the first book, but this one I DNF 2 times. I tried a year ago, and I tried recently but right before a ball scene, I lose interest. It is predictable.
However, the writing and characters are consistent. The book doesn’t stray into tangents or side plots. The direction is clear and easy to read. The romance picks up and the relationships start moving along...quickly.
However, the writing and characters are consistent. The book doesn’t stray into tangents or side plots. The direction is clear and easy to read. The romance picks up and the relationships start moving along...quickly.
May 28, 2019
Breath taking one of the best Phoenix story’s I have read. It grabs you from the very beginning. The details that the author puts into her story is truly a work of art. You will not be disappointed with this book and the journey of Ella. I Received an advance review copy.
May 28, 2019
I received an advanced copy in exchange for a fair review. I really enjoyed this book, It really follows the line in the first book and the flow of the series is awesome. This series gets better and better. Hope the next one comes out soon
May 30, 2019
Amazing
That ending just comes out of nowhere. You’re reading, engrossed in the scene, then bam! It ends. It’s amazing though. I felt like I was along for the ride. I cannot wait for the next book!
That ending just comes out of nowhere. You’re reading, engrossed in the scene, then bam! It ends. It’s amazing though. I felt like I was along for the ride. I cannot wait for the next book!
April 11, 2021
DNF 60%
*sighs* I was SO excited for this book, I L O V E D the first one, but this one is just too boring. I thought she was gonna become stronger in this book but NO, ugh I'm rather disappointed. I don't want another weak female character, I want a badass but Ella is just not it
*sighs* I was SO excited for this book, I L O V E D the first one, but this one is just too boring. I thought she was gonna become stronger in this book but NO, ugh I'm rather disappointed. I don't want another weak female character, I want a badass but Ella is just not it
October 18, 2023
this one was off key
I loved the first book, 5 stars. This one seemed…off. Everything was rushed and it felt like they left a lot of holes that could could use more fleshing out. The first book had great character and story development, this had neither.
I loved the first book, 5 stars. This one seemed…off. Everything was rushed and it felt like they left a lot of holes that could could use more fleshing out. The first book had great character and story development, this had neither.
May 29, 2019
Great read
A great addition to the series. I love the characters and it has a good plot and an amazing torturous cliffhanger.
A great addition to the series. I love the characters and it has a good plot and an amazing torturous cliffhanger.
August 31, 2019
Second book- another winner
This book continues with Ella trying to control her phoenix and stay alive against the odds. Her men and her must fight or all will be lost.
This book continues with Ella trying to control her phoenix and stay alive against the odds. Her men and her must fight or all will be lost.
February 15, 2020
Leaves you hanging!
Just at the end and trust me you want to know what happens!this book is more information and less actin but i know the next its going to be intense
Just at the end and trust me you want to know what happens!this book is more information and less actin but i know the next its going to be intense
May 11, 2020
This book fell flat so badly I dnf almost so many times.
Plodding and decidedly meh
Plodding and decidedly meh
June 25, 2020
Loved it!
Really enjoying this series. Lots of non stop action through the whole book and the men are just amazing! V
Really enjoying this series. Lots of non stop action through the whole book and the men are just amazing! V
May 14, 2021
This was a good series that was a fast-burn reverse harem.
May 25, 2019
OMG! This book was filled of sex and action. I could not put this book down. What is not to love about book 2. Another book that has made my list for best book of the year so far. I can't wait for the next one. I'm already in withdrawal.
March 4, 2020
World on Fire
I’d probably give this book 4.5 ⭐️ if I could.
This book starts where the last left off, with the bay on fire and metal boats burning. Ella’s powers have been let off the leash finally, after years of taking abuse and she wants the world to burn. It’s only the intervention of Romulus, submitting to her that brings her back to herself and prevents her from setting fire to the city.
She has two choices now, she can claim her inheritance or she can run. She decides to stay and fight and the men decide to stay and fight with her, even if it means turning against their own families.
The plot picks up in this book as the characters get thrown from one perilous situation to another. At the same time as working to keep Ella free, they all grow a tighter bond. Their friendship is tempered by the situation and their feelings for Ella. Never before has a warlock, shifter and vampire in positions of such power been friends. Is this how Ella is to burn down the world of the syndicates, or will it take a more literal flame to reduce it to ash?
This is an excellent follow up book, and I can’t wait to see how this second cliff-hanger plays out. Ms Robinson, you are an evil author!
I’d probably give this book 4.5 ⭐️ if I could.
This book starts where the last left off, with the bay on fire and metal boats burning. Ella’s powers have been let off the leash finally, after years of taking abuse and she wants the world to burn. It’s only the intervention of Romulus, submitting to her that brings her back to herself and prevents her from setting fire to the city.
She has two choices now, she can claim her inheritance or she can run. She decides to stay and fight and the men decide to stay and fight with her, even if it means turning against their own families.
The plot picks up in this book as the characters get thrown from one perilous situation to another. At the same time as working to keep Ella free, they all grow a tighter bond. Their friendship is tempered by the situation and their feelings for Ella. Never before has a warlock, shifter and vampire in positions of such power been friends. Is this how Ella is to burn down the world of the syndicates, or will it take a more literal flame to reduce it to ash?
This is an excellent follow up book, and I can’t wait to see how this second cliff-hanger plays out. Ms Robinson, you are an evil author!
March 9, 2022
Unfortunately once we meandered off the Cinderella theme in the first book, the story unraveled and became rather chaotic. The harem was quite busy from
I was not totally convinced at the reasoning behind completely rewriting syndicate society just because of a vendetta by a few that believed that the phoenix power would lead to the destruction of the world. A little too much happened in too little time to make it engaging and believable.
I also don't think there were enough explanations for how each syndicate society worked and their rules. What are the different types of magic? What are the different levels of power between someone that inherits a legacy and someone that hasn't? Is a vampire just a regular person with fangs that can drink blood sometimes? What does being the leader of each syndicate even mean? And is this a country-wide syndicate society or just locally in NYC? Shouldn't more cities be concerned about a phoenix threat that would "consume the world" other than whoever is just there locally in New York?
Lastly, there were also a few scenes that seemed to be just gratuitous violence (e.g. how Brom takes over his throne), which I'm not a big fan of.
The book ended on a cliffhanger, and I'm still intrigued by where the story is going to continue with the next book in the series.
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Ratings - completed series:
#1 House of Secrets: ★★★★☆
#2 Deck of Shadows (this book): ★★★☆☆
#3 Throne of Embers: ★★★☆☆
I was not totally convinced at the reasoning behind completely rewriting syndicate society just because of a vendetta by a few that believed that the phoenix power would lead to the destruction of the world. A little too much happened in too little time to make it engaging and believable.
I also don't think there were enough explanations for how each syndicate society worked and their rules. What are the different types of magic? What are the different levels of power between someone that inherits a legacy and someone that hasn't? Is a vampire just a regular person with fangs that can drink blood sometimes? What does being the leader of each syndicate even mean? And is this a country-wide syndicate society or just locally in NYC? Shouldn't more cities be concerned about a phoenix threat that would "consume the world" other than whoever is just there locally in New York?
Lastly, there were also a few scenes that seemed to be just gratuitous violence (e.g. how Brom takes over his throne), which I'm not a big fan of.
The book ended on a cliffhanger, and I'm still intrigued by where the story is going to continue with the next book in the series.
------
Ratings - completed series:
#1 House of Secrets: ★★★★☆
#2 Deck of Shadows (this book): ★★★☆☆
#3 Throne of Embers: ★★★☆☆
August 23, 2022
***SPOILERS***
Eleanora is a Phoenix and once she lets her power go, it is out of her control. Unleashing her fire is how she escapes the boat she was trapped on. Even when she saw Merlin coming to her rescue, her Phoenix wanted to burn him and the entire world to the ground. It has become clear that she inherited her father's legacy and now she's back in her family home. Her step mother and step sisters having been thrown out. As part of the tradition of claiming her legacy, she has to welcome the syndicates into her home. During the party her men (heir to the three other syndicates' legacy) devote themselves to her for all to see. Brom realizes he needs to claim his legacy and so he kills his father and his father's guards. Merlin's father wages an attack of Warlocks on Eleanora's home where her and her men are staying. She lets her Phoenix power go and burns not just their enemies to the ground. Romulus gets burned in his attempt to get her to regain control of her power and they seek shelter at his home. There they decide to get Eleanora to the world of Tir Na Nog where they believe her mother to be alive and in hiding. They are hoping her mother can help her control her powers. The book ends with her getting on the plane but we are not sure whether her men also made it on with her.
Eleanora is a Phoenix and once she lets her power go, it is out of her control. Unleashing her fire is how she escapes the boat she was trapped on. Even when she saw Merlin coming to her rescue, her Phoenix wanted to burn him and the entire world to the ground. It has become clear that she inherited her father's legacy and now she's back in her family home. Her step mother and step sisters having been thrown out. As part of the tradition of claiming her legacy, she has to welcome the syndicates into her home. During the party her men (heir to the three other syndicates' legacy) devote themselves to her for all to see. Brom realizes he needs to claim his legacy and so he kills his father and his father's guards. Merlin's father wages an attack of Warlocks on Eleanora's home where her and her men are staying. She lets her Phoenix power go and burns not just their enemies to the ground. Romulus gets burned in his attempt to get her to regain control of her power and they seek shelter at his home. There they decide to get Eleanora to the world of Tir Na Nog where they believe her mother to be alive and in hiding. They are hoping her mother can help her control her powers. The book ends with her getting on the plane but we are not sure whether her men also made it on with her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews