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North Woods University #3
The Secret
Secrets… they can make or break you.
I would know. I’m hiding the biggest secret of all. My scars are so much more than skin deep. They consume me, control me.
Then I meet him, Clark Jefferson. Six foot two inches of greek god hotness, with a smile that’ll make your panties disappear. He wears a clear warning label: Heartbreaker, and if I was smart I would stay away from him.
With my past, my secrets nothing could ever come of being with a man like him. Still I cannot ignore the feelings he stirs inside me. He frightens me and excites me all at once.
He makes me want to break free of the suffocating fear that claims my heart.
Our meeting isn’t fate though, he needs me as much as I need him, and so we strike a deal.
He’ll be my fake boyfriend and I’ll help him get out of trouble with his dad.
But secrets can’t remain secrets forever and as I grow closer to Clark my feelings for him grow too. Soon the line between fake and real blurs and when the past I’ve been running from finally catches up with me I’ll have to confess to Clark the truth or let go of a love that was only ever supposed to be fake.
**This is book three in the North Woods University Series. It can be read as a complete standalone and contains NO cliffhanger, NO cheating, and a HEA. Please be advised this series contains material not suitable to all readers. This is NOT a YA series.**
I would know. I’m hiding the biggest secret of all. My scars are so much more than skin deep. They consume me, control me.
Then I meet him, Clark Jefferson. Six foot two inches of greek god hotness, with a smile that’ll make your panties disappear. He wears a clear warning label: Heartbreaker, and if I was smart I would stay away from him.
With my past, my secrets nothing could ever come of being with a man like him. Still I cannot ignore the feelings he stirs inside me. He frightens me and excites me all at once.
He makes me want to break free of the suffocating fear that claims my heart.
Our meeting isn’t fate though, he needs me as much as I need him, and so we strike a deal.
He’ll be my fake boyfriend and I’ll help him get out of trouble with his dad.
But secrets can’t remain secrets forever and as I grow closer to Clark my feelings for him grow too. Soon the line between fake and real blurs and when the past I’ve been running from finally catches up with me I’ll have to confess to Clark the truth or let go of a love that was only ever supposed to be fake.
**This is book three in the North Woods University Series. It can be read as a complete standalone and contains NO cliffhanger, NO cheating, and a HEA. Please be advised this series contains material not suitable to all readers. This is NOT a YA series.**
293 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 2, 2019
1569 people are currently reading
2637 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Beck
235 books7,192 followersJ.L. Beck is the USA Today Best Selling author of unapologetic romance. She lives in WI with her husband, two kids, and four dogs. She enjoys writing and recently starting a literary agency to help represent authors in the industry.
To learn more about her books or interact with her go here: https://linktr.ee/jlbeckbooks
J.L. Beck xoxoxo
To learn more about her books or interact with her go here: https://linktr.ee/jlbeckbooks
J.L. Beck xoxoxo
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 283 reviews
August 25, 2020
New Adult Angsty Romance!
The first two books in this series are bully romance books and Amazon markets this one as a “friends to lovers” romance. However it really isn’t either of those. I generally don’t like the friends to lovers trope because I really like the first meeting between the Hero and the heroine. And we do get to see that in this story even though part of this story was introduced at the very end of the last book, “The Dare”. Clark is the best friend of Vance from that book and is the love ‘em and leave ‘em type, even more than Vance was before he met Eva.
This is the story of Clark and Emerson. As you can probably guess by those names, they both have rich fathers. They meet at a work event thrown by Emerson’s father. Emerson has terrible social anxiety and is trying her best to blend in with the shadows in the far corner of the room when a partially drunk and very bored Clark spots her and asks her if the wants to get out of there, *wink *wink.
Clark doesn’t notice that she hasn’t answered him (since girls never turn him down). So he takes her hand and walks her outside where she proceeds to have a panic attack. He finally notices and sobers up immediately, and holds her and talks her down while making her feel safe. And as soon as she does, she runs into the house like Cinderella without even giving him her name.
Clark, who has never been with a girl longer than it takes to throw a condom away, can’t stop thinking about this girl. Then a few weeks later his father with whom he has a strained relationship, tells him that one of his business associates has a daughter with some issues that will be starting school at his college in a few weeks and is moving in with them so Clark can show her around and help her meet people. But he is not to lay a hand on her.
It just happens to be Cinderella girl. Clark is drawn to her and Emerson feels safe with Clark from the start like she never has with anyone else. Clark wants to find out what happened in her past to make her so sad and anxious all the time, because he feels he failed his mother who had similar issues and she ended up committing suicide, but also because of his growing feelings for Em.
I really liked this story, it is always nice to see a reformed bad boy who used women for sex come to love and cherish one woman so much. Especially when he is so gentle with her and he so obviously is putting her needs in front of his own. He is giving up his gratification and focusing on what she needs emotionally. And the hand holding and keeping her close, pulling her in with his arm around her to protect her, just awesome.
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The first two books in this series are bully romance books and Amazon markets this one as a “friends to lovers” romance. However it really isn’t either of those. I generally don’t like the friends to lovers trope because I really like the first meeting between the Hero and the heroine. And we do get to see that in this story even though part of this story was introduced at the very end of the last book, “The Dare”. Clark is the best friend of Vance from that book and is the love ‘em and leave ‘em type, even more than Vance was before he met Eva.
This is the story of Clark and Emerson. As you can probably guess by those names, they both have rich fathers. They meet at a work event thrown by Emerson’s father. Emerson has terrible social anxiety and is trying her best to blend in with the shadows in the far corner of the room when a partially drunk and very bored Clark spots her and asks her if the wants to get out of there, *wink *wink.
Clark doesn’t notice that she hasn’t answered him (since girls never turn him down). So he takes her hand and walks her outside where she proceeds to have a panic attack. He finally notices and sobers up immediately, and holds her and talks her down while making her feel safe. And as soon as she does, she runs into the house like Cinderella without even giving him her name.
Clark, who has never been with a girl longer than it takes to throw a condom away, can’t stop thinking about this girl. Then a few weeks later his father with whom he has a strained relationship, tells him that one of his business associates has a daughter with some issues that will be starting school at his college in a few weeks and is moving in with them so Clark can show her around and help her meet people. But he is not to lay a hand on her.
It just happens to be Cinderella girl. Clark is drawn to her and Emerson feels safe with Clark from the start like she never has with anyone else. Clark wants to find out what happened in her past to make her so sad and anxious all the time, because he feels he failed his mother who had similar issues and she ended up committing suicide, but also because of his growing feelings for Em.
I really liked this story, it is always nice to see a reformed bad boy who used women for sex come to love and cherish one woman so much. Especially when he is so gentle with her and he so obviously is putting her needs in front of his own. He is giving up his gratification and focusing on what she needs emotionally. And the hand holding and keeping her close, pulling her in with his arm around her to protect her, just awesome.
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August 4, 2019
2,5 ❤️❤️🌟s
I expected that Clark would be a different character compared to Remmington and Vance.
Although I liked the concept of this story, the characters were not adequately developed, I couldn’t connect at all with their insta-love and it didn’t have the buildup in contrast with the two previous ones.
I expected that Clark would be a different character compared to Remmington and Vance.
Although I liked the concept of this story, the characters were not adequately developed, I couldn’t connect at all with their insta-love and it didn’t have the buildup in contrast with the two previous ones.
December 24, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up
Surprisingly, I kinda liked it.
I think the main reason why I liked this one was Clark.
He was a true sweetheart.
Protective, understanding and very respectful when it comes to Emerson.
Also, a huge plus for the fact that they didn't jump into bed right away and there were no (major) stupid OW drama along the way.
And Clark, despite being a major manwhore before meeting Emerson, is capable of keeping his dick in his pants because she is the only woman he wants.
And I dug that.
It was so refreshing after book 1 and 2 and all the other reads I've tried from this duo.
So definitely kudos for that.
The reason why I hesitated whether it should be rounded up or not was Emerson.
Because I wasn't a big fan of hers.
Don't get me wrong, she was a nice girl but a tad too weepy, fearful and weak, constantly on the edge, constantly afraid of everything and everyone.
I seriously got a feeling she would be afraid of her own farts if they got too loud.
And that all was just a bit too much.
A character like Emerson needs colours and variety to break the dullness.
Because, yeah we know, you were raped yada yada yada, but do you have any interests or hobbies?
And, what's more important, can you talk about things which are NOT rape related?
Because that shit gets old after a while.
So that was a big boo-boo on the authors' part.
All in all, this one was the first book I liked from these two and so I'm not gonna be a bitch and I will round it up to 4.
Because the fact that I didn't love it, doesn't mean I didn't enjoy it.
I did.
Quite a lot, must say.
So far, the best one in the series for me.
Hope others will be just as good.
We'll see.
Surprisingly, I kinda liked it.
I think the main reason why I liked this one was Clark.
He was a true sweetheart.
Protective, understanding and very respectful when it comes to Emerson.
Also, a huge plus for the fact that they didn't jump into bed right away and there were no (major) stupid OW drama along the way.
And Clark, despite being a major manwhore before meeting Emerson, is capable of keeping his dick in his pants because she is the only woman he wants.
And I dug that.
It was so refreshing after book 1 and 2 and all the other reads I've tried from this duo.
So definitely kudos for that.
The reason why I hesitated whether it should be rounded up or not was Emerson.
Because I wasn't a big fan of hers.
Don't get me wrong, she was a nice girl but a tad too weepy, fearful and weak, constantly on the edge, constantly afraid of everything and everyone.
I seriously got a feeling she would be afraid of her own farts if they got too loud.
And that all was just a bit too much.
A character like Emerson needs colours and variety to break the dullness.
Because, yeah we know, you were raped yada yada yada, but do you have any interests or hobbies?
And, what's more important, can you talk about things which are NOT rape related?
Because that shit gets old after a while.
So that was a big boo-boo on the authors' part.
All in all, this one was the first book I liked from these two and so I'm not gonna be a bitch and I will round it up to 4.
Because the fact that I didn't love it, doesn't mean I didn't enjoy it.
I did.
Quite a lot, must say.
So far, the best one in the series for me.
Hope others will be just as good.
We'll see.
April 7, 2021
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: Young Adult Romance (College)
Story: 3.5/5
Enjoyment: 4/5
Dark Level: 0/5
Sexual Level: GOOD
Triggers: Yes
Violence: No
Male: Popular
Series: Book 3
Pages: 248
Audio: GuyV: GOOD & GirlV: GOOD
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
So far with this series, I really like The secret. I enjoyed watching Clark’s and Emerson’s friendship and relationship evolve. Emerson’s character was truly broken. She is carrying a secret from her past that affects the way she functions in the present. It makes her unable to connect with anyone, causes anxiety, fear of being touched and makes her extremely quiet and shy. More than Clark, I love the metamorphosis of Emerson, I’m so proud of her. I didn’t get closure with Emerson’s dad and felt there needed to be.
Clark, thank goodness he wasn’t a bully in this story, or it wouldn’t have worked for me. I liked the way he took care of Emerson. He was a true hero in this book. Although Clark was a popular jock, there was nothing to support this. So no sports playing or sexy uniform.
CHEMISTRY:
Physical chemistry was just right, especially knowing all that Emerson went through.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
It was greats seeing Rem and Jules and Vance and Ava again. I was extremely excited to know that Xander Rossi and Luke made an appearance. Makes me want to read their Rossi brothers series over again.
Overall, I loved Emerson’s character as well as this story.
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
Style: Young Adult Romance (College)
Story: 3.5/5
Enjoyment: 4/5
Dark Level: 0/5
Sexual Level: GOOD
Triggers: Yes
Violence: No
Male: Popular
Series: Book 3
Pages: 248
Audio: GuyV: GOOD & GirlV: GOOD
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
So far with this series, I really like The secret. I enjoyed watching Clark’s and Emerson’s friendship and relationship evolve. Emerson’s character was truly broken. She is carrying a secret from her past that affects the way she functions in the present. It makes her unable to connect with anyone, causes anxiety, fear of being touched and makes her extremely quiet and shy. More than Clark, I love the metamorphosis of Emerson, I’m so proud of her. I didn’t get closure with Emerson’s dad and felt there needed to be.
Clark, thank goodness he wasn’t a bully in this story, or it wouldn’t have worked for me. I liked the way he took care of Emerson. He was a true hero in this book. Although Clark was a popular jock, there was nothing to support this. So no sports playing or sexy uniform.
CHEMISTRY:
Physical chemistry was just right, especially knowing all that Emerson went through.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
It was greats seeing Rem and Jules and Vance and Ava again. I was extremely excited to know that Xander Rossi and Luke made an appearance. Makes me want to read their Rossi brothers series over again.
Overall, I loved Emerson’s character as well as this story.
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
August 17, 2019
It was too superficial. The characters adjusted to each other so quickly. It felt fake
August 18, 2019
3.5 STARS
November 5, 2024
A player and a skittish girl dealing with angst and panic attacks make for a surprisingly cute combo.
Somewhere around 4.5-4.75 ⭐️’s
Somewhere around 4.5-4.75 ⭐️’s
November 7, 2019
“Secrets as deep as the ocean reside inside of her, and though I’ve only known her for a short time, it feels like I’ve known her my entire life.”
August 2, 2019
THE SECRET (North Woods University #3)
Friends-to-lovers romance
J.L.Beck & Cassandra Hallman
#arc #arcreader #amreading #currentlyreading #reader #reviewer #secrets #friendstolovers #fakerelationship #romance #college #collegeromance #sensitivecontent #northwoodsuniversityseries #standalone #emotional
POV:Dual
Emerson and Clark
Finally Clark's book!
Emerson suffers from panic attacks, anxiety, seen and not heard, observers from afar.
Until she meets a tall, dark, stranger. At a charity event neither of them want to be at. Until Emerson has a panic attack, and to her surprise, he calms her.
"I don't know what just happened between us but I'm not stupid enough to believe that he can save me. No one can save me. I'm doomed, forever trapped in a world of panic, of fear." ~ Emerson
Clark, popular, jock, funny, flirtatious, girls flock to him. But since meeting mysterious girl , he can't get her out his head. Until she's standing on his doorstep. Turns out she's the girl his Father's invited to stay with them as a favour to her Father.
"The mysterious girl. The girl I've been thinking about for weeks is standing on my front steps. Mysterious girl is going to be staying with us, in my house, so close to me, yet, so far away." ~ Clark
Emerson can't figure out why Clark can calm her and why his touch doesn't feel like everyone else's. She certainly doesn't know why he's interested in her.
Clark can't stand how Emerson's always scared. It only stirs up memories and feelings of his Mother, that he's long buried. And how that he didn't help her. This only makes him more determined to figure out and help Emerson.
"I don't need him, not when everyone I've ever needed has turned their backs on me. He can't save me. He can't heal me. I'm broken beyond repair." ~ Emerson
"I don't know who hurt her, but in that moment I vowed to myself to find out. She has me now, and I'll protect her, defend her til my last breath." ~ Clark
Clark's dad surprised me. He came through when Clark went to him for help. Emerson's father..... not so much.
The Hero is an actual hero in this story. Loved it!
Ooh, that epilogue ending! Lol
Sebastian's book The Vow, coming 9th Oct.
*I received an Arc copy in exchange for an honest review*
Friends-to-lovers romance
J.L.Beck & Cassandra Hallman
#arc #arcreader #amreading #currentlyreading #reader #reviewer #secrets #friendstolovers #fakerelationship #romance #college #collegeromance #sensitivecontent #northwoodsuniversityseries #standalone #emotional
POV:Dual
Emerson and Clark
Finally Clark's book!
Emerson suffers from panic attacks, anxiety, seen and not heard, observers from afar.
Until she meets a tall, dark, stranger. At a charity event neither of them want to be at. Until Emerson has a panic attack, and to her surprise, he calms her.
"I don't know what just happened between us but I'm not stupid enough to believe that he can save me. No one can save me. I'm doomed, forever trapped in a world of panic, of fear." ~ Emerson
Clark, popular, jock, funny, flirtatious, girls flock to him. But since meeting mysterious girl , he can't get her out his head. Until she's standing on his doorstep. Turns out she's the girl his Father's invited to stay with them as a favour to her Father.
"The mysterious girl. The girl I've been thinking about for weeks is standing on my front steps. Mysterious girl is going to be staying with us, in my house, so close to me, yet, so far away." ~ Clark
Emerson can't figure out why Clark can calm her and why his touch doesn't feel like everyone else's. She certainly doesn't know why he's interested in her.
Clark can't stand how Emerson's always scared. It only stirs up memories and feelings of his Mother, that he's long buried. And how that he didn't help her. This only makes him more determined to figure out and help Emerson.
"I don't need him, not when everyone I've ever needed has turned their backs on me. He can't save me. He can't heal me. I'm broken beyond repair." ~ Emerson
"I don't know who hurt her, but in that moment I vowed to myself to find out. She has me now, and I'll protect her, defend her til my last breath." ~ Clark
Clark's dad surprised me. He came through when Clark went to him for help. Emerson's father..... not so much.
The Hero is an actual hero in this story. Loved it!
Ooh, that epilogue ending! Lol
Sebastian's book The Vow, coming 9th Oct.
*I received an Arc copy in exchange for an honest review*
August 15, 2019
I loved Emerson and Clark's story. I have been waiting on this book and I wasn't disappointed. Emerson has been hiding a secret from everyone. She has anxiety and social issues from a traumatic experience. Clark meets her at a function and comes on to her. She ends up having a panic attack and he helps her. After that initial meeting he has thought about her. Fortunately for him she ends up coming to live with him for college. I really enjoyed their story it's my favorite in the series. I'm looking forward to the next book.
August 4, 2019
I love this story. The Secret by J.L and Cassandra is a sweet and loving story, but also deals with a hard issue but done so carefully.
We get Emerson and Clark in this story. We have seen Clark in the last couple of books, and he did not come across as a very nice person at times. But when Clark meets a special woman - Emerson- he knows he has found someone he wants to spend the rest of his life with her. But there is something different about her. Not just the way she acts, but something is scaring the crap out of her, and he wants to help her. In the process of helping her, a friendship blooms and eventually love.
The Secret is a beautifully told story by two fantastic authors!
August 3, 2019
This was a good read. Of course it was tough at times due to the fact that it involved rape. Of course Emerson was in a bad place. Until she met Clark. He was there for her when she needed it. Thankfully in the end she got some kind of justice.I also thought it was cool that Xander showed up in this. Which is funny because he was in When Rivals Fall too.
October 24, 2019
Ok so in the last 10% of the book things went from 0-100 verrrry quickly. A totally unrealistic plot point that no one seems to bat an eyelid at and the story just... ends?
Terrible grammar and punctuation with the use of past and present tense simultaneously throughout which made it a very jarring read.
There’s insta-love and then INSTA-LOVE, as in the second they meet. Both characters were totally dependable on each other from their first interaction. The characters definitely needing fleshing out more, as neither really had any defining features except Clark liked to have sex and drink whisky and Emerson was quiet? Also there just had to be the whole “oh she has freckles and doesn’t wear makeup and wears baggy sweaters and just ISN’T LIKE OTHER GIRLS!!!” You can wear so much make up and no clothes and your pain is still valid???
I also had issues with how the authors handled Emerson’s experience and how she deals with it as the story progresses, but as I cannot comment on the representation from experience I won’t state those here.
Yeaaah so this just wasn’t for me sadly.
Terrible grammar and punctuation with the use of past and present tense simultaneously throughout which made it a very jarring read.
There’s insta-love and then INSTA-LOVE, as in the second they meet. Both characters were totally dependable on each other from their first interaction. The characters definitely needing fleshing out more, as neither really had any defining features except Clark liked to have sex and drink whisky and Emerson was quiet? Also there just had to be the whole “oh she has freckles and doesn’t wear makeup and wears baggy sweaters and just ISN’T LIKE OTHER GIRLS!!!” You can wear so much make up and no clothes and your pain is still valid???
I also had issues with how the authors handled Emerson’s experience and how she deals with it as the story progresses, but as I cannot comment on the representation from experience I won’t state those here.
Yeaaah so this just wasn’t for me sadly.
January 14, 2020
2 Disappointing stars
I’m honestly surprised at how different this book is from the previous books in this series. Everything from the drag of the story to the underdeveloped characters, had me struggling to connect.
Emerson is the girl. She is a sexual abuse victim from a young age and has become a scared of her own shadow type of person. But it goes beyond that. She is scared, terrified of everyone and everything. Constantly having panic attacks. She is such a nuisance to her father that he sends he to live with another family. If that’s not weird enough, the family consists of a father and son.
Clark is the son and turns into Emerson’s protector. But Clark has a flaw... he used to be a ....Manwhore. Lol
“For once in my life, I hate myself for being such a manwhore.”
I can’t make this stuff up. There was no real plot. The story dragged until they moved in together after only knowing each other for a week. My mind was bored very quickly, and my eyes started skimming, skipping whole sentences and then paragraphs, until I DNF this book at 50%.
I’m honestly surprised at how different this book is from the previous books in this series. Everything from the drag of the story to the underdeveloped characters, had me struggling to connect.
Emerson is the girl. She is a sexual abuse victim from a young age and has become a scared of her own shadow type of person. But it goes beyond that. She is scared, terrified of everyone and everything. Constantly having panic attacks. She is such a nuisance to her father that he sends he to live with another family. If that’s not weird enough, the family consists of a father and son.
Clark is the son and turns into Emerson’s protector. But Clark has a flaw... he used to be a ....Manwhore. Lol
“For once in my life, I hate myself for being such a manwhore.”
I can’t make this stuff up. There was no real plot. The story dragged until they moved in together after only knowing each other for a week. My mind was bored very quickly, and my eyes started skimming, skipping whole sentences and then paragraphs, until I DNF this book at 50%.
September 16, 2020
Dont waste your time
Wow. What a terrible read. First of all if you havent put down the book the first 5 pages I congratulate you. I read the whole thing because I like train wrecks I guess. I can look past the plot confusion grammatical errors and extreme insta love but the complete inaccuracy and insensitivity put into it astonishes me. I mean if your going to write a book about such a delicate topic at least put some thought into it. Severely mentally damaged rape victim who has extreme fear of men doesnt feel safe with a strange man who drags her into an alley, nor does she move in with him a week later, or have sex with him the same night she encounters her rapist. There is so much wrong with this story so do yourself a favor and skip it
Wow. What a terrible read. First of all if you havent put down the book the first 5 pages I congratulate you. I read the whole thing because I like train wrecks I guess. I can look past the plot confusion grammatical errors and extreme insta love but the complete inaccuracy and insensitivity put into it astonishes me. I mean if your going to write a book about such a delicate topic at least put some thought into it. Severely mentally damaged rape victim who has extreme fear of men doesnt feel safe with a strange man who drags her into an alley, nor does she move in with him a week later, or have sex with him the same night she encounters her rapist. There is so much wrong with this story so do yourself a favor and skip it
March 7, 2021
Characters were not developed enough for me to understand Clark’s instant love.
Clark sees Emerson at a gathering, approaches her, figures out that he frightened her, and then consoles her. Weeks later he is still thinking about the red hair girl with green eyes. Then Clark’s father calls Clark telling him that a young woman is going to move in with him. And guess who the girl is...yes you guessed it.
I love these type of stories. Two broken characters who come together. However, I did not care for all the “telling” in this story.
I was told a lot, but I love to come to my own conclusions.
Bottom line: I was unable to connect.
Loved the premise, but the execution was weak.
My opinion. You may love this. Reading is subjective.
Clark sees Emerson at a gathering, approaches her, figures out that he frightened her, and then consoles her. Weeks later he is still thinking about the red hair girl with green eyes. Then Clark’s father calls Clark telling him that a young woman is going to move in with him. And guess who the girl is...yes you guessed it.
I love these type of stories. Two broken characters who come together. However, I did not care for all the “telling” in this story.
I was told a lot, but I love to come to my own conclusions.
Bottom line: I was unable to connect.
Loved the premise, but the execution was weak.
My opinion. You may love this. Reading is subjective.
August 23, 2019
“Secrets as deep as the ocean reside inside of her, and though I’ve only known her for a short time, it feels like I’ve known her my entire life.”
Emerson met Clark in an unusual way. Being present at a party, trying to remain imperceptible, she ends up bumping into a drunk boy, and it's only a matter of seconds before a panic attack occurs.
Clark can't forget the frightened girl at the party, who brings back memories of a past he prefers to forget. But not knowing her identity makes it hard to find her again. Open the door to greet the daughter of his father's friend, who will spend a season with them while attending college, he runs into the girl he can not get it out of his head. At the same time he curses the promise he made to his father not to be involved with the guest.
Can a girl terrified of her own shadow who suffers from panic attacks and hides serious secrets trust a handsome stranger with a conquering reputation and an amazing smile? Without understanding why, Emerson feels safe with Clark, and maybe trusting him is beneficial to her.
In a delicate plot, addressing a serious subject, we will have the journey of a girl who suffered violence and shut herself up, avoiding the world around her, and a guy who tries to help her, seeking a second chance at redemption, while trying to change his image and allow himself to feel for the first time.
As their relationship progresses, Clark gains Emerson's trust by showing her that by his side she will always be safe. And with Ava as a friend, she is slowly gaining confidence, to impose herself and never feel disadvantaged again.
But some jealous girls, clueless guys, their parents, and Emerson's big secret will get in the way of these two. In fact, Emerson's father is obnoxious. With the twist at the end, and revealing the girl's past, the book features a hint of drama, testing the characters and pushing them to their extremes.
I liked the support of Clark's father, although I found the conclusion of the problem a bit extreme, even if I didn't condemn it.
A more dramatic, tense romance, but with well-written characters. A good read.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest Review *
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Emerson met Clark in an unusual way. Being present at a party, trying to remain imperceptible, she ends up bumping into a drunk boy, and it's only a matter of seconds before a panic attack occurs.
Clark can't forget the frightened girl at the party, who brings back memories of a past he prefers to forget. But not knowing her identity makes it hard to find her again. Open the door to greet the daughter of his father's friend, who will spend a season with them while attending college, he runs into the girl he can not get it out of his head. At the same time he curses the promise he made to his father not to be involved with the guest.
Can a girl terrified of her own shadow who suffers from panic attacks and hides serious secrets trust a handsome stranger with a conquering reputation and an amazing smile? Without understanding why, Emerson feels safe with Clark, and maybe trusting him is beneficial to her.
In a delicate plot, addressing a serious subject, we will have the journey of a girl who suffered violence and shut herself up, avoiding the world around her, and a guy who tries to help her, seeking a second chance at redemption, while trying to change his image and allow himself to feel for the first time.
As their relationship progresses, Clark gains Emerson's trust by showing her that by his side she will always be safe. And with Ava as a friend, she is slowly gaining confidence, to impose herself and never feel disadvantaged again.
But some jealous girls, clueless guys, their parents, and Emerson's big secret will get in the way of these two. In fact, Emerson's father is obnoxious. With the twist at the end, and revealing the girl's past, the book features a hint of drama, testing the characters and pushing them to their extremes.
I liked the support of Clark's father, although I found the conclusion of the problem a bit extreme, even if I didn't condemn it.
A more dramatic, tense romance, but with well-written characters. A good read.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest Review *
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August 16, 2019
The Secret is book 3 in the North Woods University Series but was easily able to be read as a standalone. This was my first time reading a book by these authors but I am curious about some of the other characters I got to meet in this book so it will not be my last.
I was so drawn into this story! I was literally on the edge of my seat dying to know how everything was going to work out. I was instantly in love with these characters and thought that the instant chemistry between them was off the charts. Even though Emerson was scared and didn't want to be close to anyone the way Clark was able to break through the walls she had put up was amazing.
This is a must read book for sure! By Alisa
I was so drawn into this story! I was literally on the edge of my seat dying to know how everything was going to work out. I was instantly in love with these characters and thought that the instant chemistry between them was off the charts. Even though Emerson was scared and didn't want to be close to anyone the way Clark was able to break through the walls she had put up was amazing.
This is a must read book for sure! By Alisa
October 16, 2019
A captivating read from beginning to end! An exciting storyline that leaves you breathless wanting more! Sexy steam filled chemistry! Emotionally heartfelt, enjoyable and fun! One heck of a twisted, intense rollercoaster ride! An amazing must read!
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 26, 2019
2.5 stars
***ARC received in exchange of an honest opinion***
I expected this one to be different than the others, I hoped Clarke would be "better" than the other guys, but it was hard for me to connect with him too.
Unfortunately it seems like this series wasn't for me.
***ARC received in exchange of an honest opinion***
I expected this one to be different than the others, I hoped Clarke would be "better" than the other guys, but it was hard for me to connect with him too.
Unfortunately it seems like this series wasn't for me.
May 15, 2020
A man with too much confidence and a woman with none. When Clark first stumbles upon Emerson he does what he does best. He flirts and tries to pick her up. Emerson is hiding from the crowd in plain sight. When Clark makes his moves, she has a panic attack. They both leave big impressions on each other. When they meet again, we an emotional friends to lovers story that will keep you turning the pages. There are twists an turns and of course secrets. Great to see Clark go from playboy to a sweetheart. Love the visits from the past stories.
October 28, 2022
This one was the sweetest of the series. If you were looking for bully this one doesn’t fit that description, but its still a good story. I think the author did a great job writing the anxiety / depression / dealing with sexual assault aspect of the heroine.
August 29, 2021
Disclaimer: This review contains potential spoilers. I received an Advance Reader Copy at no cost from the publisher/author. All opinions in my review are my own.
Wow, this book was so much more emotional than the first two books. I was completely engrossed in this story from the very start. The authors have an incredible talent for bringing their characters to life in the pages, and I think that this book is the best that I have read yet for this.
Out of all three books in the series so far, I think that Clark and Emerson are my favorite characters from the series. There is just something about them that really speaks to me. I definitely related to Emerson since I share her struggles with anxiety and PTSD. She was such a genuinely good soul and it was heartbreaking discovering the horrible injustices that she had to endure in her youth. I was rooting for her during the entire book. I really wanted her to have her happily ever after. I really liked Clark in the second book of the series, even though he was an unapologetic manwhore. I loved getting to know him better in this book. If I am honest, his manwhore reputation still kind of bothered me in this book but I was also impressed by how caring and accepting he was when he fell for Emerson. He never pressured her for anything she didn't want to give and he always wanted to make sure that she was comfortable and safe. He was protective of her in all the best ways. I love that when he met her he made a connection between her and his mother who had passed away when he was 12 from suicide after suffering from the same conditions that Emerson has. He just wanted to help her since no one helped his mother. Along the way, he fell in love with Emerson. Both Emerson and Clark have some great character development and they are both characters that are full of depth. I also liked seeing the characters from the first two books. I can't wait for Sebastian's story in book four!
As mentioned above, the romance was just darling. Considering Emerson's fragile nature, they didn't really have a traditional courtship. If I had any bone to pick about the romance, it is that the romance was a little sudden. They hardly know each other for any real amount of time before they are head over heels and they feel like they can't live without the other. That felt a little unrealistic, but the romance itself was so heartwarming. The way they come together is beautiful and fills me with so many feels.
I really loved the representation of anxiety and PTSD. I live with both of these myself and reading about Emerson while she navigates these issues in her life was really an emotional experience for me. More so than usual, I would say. The authors did a fantastic job of portraying the reality of these conditions and the adverse effects that they can have on a person trying to live and manage their symptoms.
The plot of this book felt very different from the other books in the series. It was very character-driven and all of the stressors and conflict stem from events that took place in the past. There is more of an internal conflict in this one as opposed to events or actions by characters that set things into motion. While this did make the story very emotional and absolutely impossible to put down, it also felt a little lacking at the same time. I still think that there should have been more external conflict. The overall plot just didn't feel as strong in this book, which is hard for me to say. It was overly predictable (apart from that epilogue) but it was also compelling in its own way. The characters really drive this story forward. It's odd because I really enjoyed this book more than the last book. I enjoyed the characters much more in this book as well. I suppose that the plot just wasn't as convincing as those in the previous books.
And I can't help but mention that this book has one heck of an epilogue. I can honestly say that I was adequately shocked at everything that occurs in the epilogue. It even made me giggle when it was all over.
This book does contain potentially triggering subject matter, but it tackles these things with grace. If you are sensitive to stories involving anxiety, PTSD, rape, lack of consent, miscarriage, assault, and suicide then please proceed with caution with this book.
Overall, this is an emotional story that really packs a wallop on your feels. This is a raw story about fear, regret, and putting the past behind you and conquering your own demons. It's also a beautiful love story about acceptance, trust, and finding your happily ever after. I am so excited to read Sebastian's story in book four of this series once it is released!
More reviews on my blog: Novel Nerd Faction
Wow, this book was so much more emotional than the first two books. I was completely engrossed in this story from the very start. The authors have an incredible talent for bringing their characters to life in the pages, and I think that this book is the best that I have read yet for this.
Out of all three books in the series so far, I think that Clark and Emerson are my favorite characters from the series. There is just something about them that really speaks to me. I definitely related to Emerson since I share her struggles with anxiety and PTSD. She was such a genuinely good soul and it was heartbreaking discovering the horrible injustices that she had to endure in her youth. I was rooting for her during the entire book. I really wanted her to have her happily ever after. I really liked Clark in the second book of the series, even though he was an unapologetic manwhore. I loved getting to know him better in this book. If I am honest, his manwhore reputation still kind of bothered me in this book but I was also impressed by how caring and accepting he was when he fell for Emerson. He never pressured her for anything she didn't want to give and he always wanted to make sure that she was comfortable and safe. He was protective of her in all the best ways. I love that when he met her he made a connection between her and his mother who had passed away when he was 12 from suicide after suffering from the same conditions that Emerson has. He just wanted to help her since no one helped his mother. Along the way, he fell in love with Emerson. Both Emerson and Clark have some great character development and they are both characters that are full of depth. I also liked seeing the characters from the first two books. I can't wait for Sebastian's story in book four!
As mentioned above, the romance was just darling. Considering Emerson's fragile nature, they didn't really have a traditional courtship. If I had any bone to pick about the romance, it is that the romance was a little sudden. They hardly know each other for any real amount of time before they are head over heels and they feel like they can't live without the other. That felt a little unrealistic, but the romance itself was so heartwarming. The way they come together is beautiful and fills me with so many feels.
I really loved the representation of anxiety and PTSD. I live with both of these myself and reading about Emerson while she navigates these issues in her life was really an emotional experience for me. More so than usual, I would say. The authors did a fantastic job of portraying the reality of these conditions and the adverse effects that they can have on a person trying to live and manage their symptoms.
The plot of this book felt very different from the other books in the series. It was very character-driven and all of the stressors and conflict stem from events that took place in the past. There is more of an internal conflict in this one as opposed to events or actions by characters that set things into motion. While this did make the story very emotional and absolutely impossible to put down, it also felt a little lacking at the same time. I still think that there should have been more external conflict. The overall plot just didn't feel as strong in this book, which is hard for me to say. It was overly predictable (apart from that epilogue) but it was also compelling in its own way. The characters really drive this story forward. It's odd because I really enjoyed this book more than the last book. I enjoyed the characters much more in this book as well. I suppose that the plot just wasn't as convincing as those in the previous books.
And I can't help but mention that this book has one heck of an epilogue. I can honestly say that I was adequately shocked at everything that occurs in the epilogue. It even made me giggle when it was all over.
This book does contain potentially triggering subject matter, but it tackles these things with grace. If you are sensitive to stories involving anxiety, PTSD, rape, lack of consent, miscarriage, assault, and suicide then please proceed with caution with this book.
Overall, this is an emotional story that really packs a wallop on your feels. This is a raw story about fear, regret, and putting the past behind you and conquering your own demons. It's also a beautiful love story about acceptance, trust, and finding your happily ever after. I am so excited to read Sebastian's story in book four of this series once it is released!
More reviews on my blog: Novel Nerd Faction
May 10, 2023
3.5 Stars
Another emotional book from this series, and this time, I don't think I was ready for the storyline. It was heartbreaking, and I'm just not used to that with these authors, or with NA books. But it was well written, and I did enjoy it. The audio was well done, and I'm excited for the rest of the series.
Another emotional book from this series, and this time, I don't think I was ready for the storyline. It was heartbreaking, and I'm just not used to that with these authors, or with NA books. But it was well written, and I did enjoy it. The audio was well done, and I'm excited for the rest of the series.
August 4, 2022
Too simple, too one sided, too romanizing and way too submissive
May 13, 2025
this book is one of the best of the series, considering the other books by this series
August 19, 2019
Emerson and Clark.
I love them so much she shy and he's a man horror and she has lots of Secrets and I love how he sticks up for her the story in this Charters pulled at my Heartstrings it was hot sizzling and another fabulous great addition to the series it had me up half the night so I could finish 5 * read ,it's a keeper can't wait to see what comes up next
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
I love them so much she shy and he's a man horror and she has lots of Secrets and I love how he sticks up for her the story in this Charters pulled at my Heartstrings it was hot sizzling and another fabulous great addition to the series it had me up half the night so I could finish 5 * read ,it's a keeper can't wait to see what comes up next
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
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