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The Elders #2

Quinlan's Secret

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Beware what lurks below...

After years of dreaming and saving money, Josh and Kiera open their own tavern in Miller's Crossing, a quiet town outside of Milwaukee. Owning a business is everything they imagined until Josh discovers a hidden door leading to a passage underground. At first excited by the discovery, the couple quickly realizes the more they explore below, the more things unravel above. Friends go missing, apparitions appear, and their lives begin to crumble. With nowhere to run, Josh and Kiera soon find themselves in a fight for their very lives.

From the author of Shepherd's Warning, a new novel of ghostly horror, the second installment in the The Elders Trilogy.

375 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 20, 2020

162 people are currently reading
501 people want to read

About the author

Cailyn Lloyd

5 books84 followers
Author of the bestselling trilogy, the Elders, Cailyn Lloyd, spent three years living in a truly haunted house and experienced firsthand the nuances of strange and eerie places. Haunted Ground is her highly anticipated fifth novel in the ghost and horror genre.

In addition to writing, Cailyn is an accomplished weather photographer and her work has appeared in newspapers, textbooks and publications including Life Magazine. She is also a composer and musician with three album releases to her credit. Cailyn lives near the Kettle Moraine State Forest in Wisconsin and when she’s not writing spooky stories, loves hiking with her dogs and spending time with her children.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Profile Image for Derrick.
211 reviews131 followers
February 19, 2021
I enjoyed reading this second book in the series every bit as much as I did the first book. I think a good sequel should have at least some nods to the original story and this one did a great job of that. I felt like there was some pretty unsettling parts in this story, which I always relish. I thought the grisly parts were well written. The author does a great job of introducing the characters and getting us readers to care about them. Once we finally meet everyone and start getting to know them better, things begin moving quickly. The suspense is building the entire time and by the time I approached the climax of the story, I couldn't stop reading. I look forward to reading the third (final?) book in the series. I already can't wait to see what happens next!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Brennan LaFaro.
Author 26 books156 followers
May 20, 2020
Speaking of secrets, Cailyn Lloyd’s first book in this series, Shepherd’s Warning, was such a pleasant surprise. I didn’t know anything about this author, but she was kind enough to entrust her book to me. Book one was a haunted house story at its core, but with elements of magic and elders, people who had been around hundreds if not thousands of years. No tentacles.

Even though this book was part of a planned trilogy, the ghost story was relatively self-contained. What impressed me most was that Lloyd didn’t rely on the trilogy spanning ideas to carry this novel. She wrote something that stood on its own.

The point of that tangent being that when book two showed up in the mail, I was thrilled to see where the story would go next. Would we revisit characters from book one or would this be another self-contained story with loose connections to book one.

Quinlan’s Secret tells the story of a couple, Josh and Kiera, buying and renovating a tavern in Wisconsin, not far from the events in the first book. The tavern is reportedly haunted, and immediately the owners begin to experience activity, mostly annoying things at first. This all leads to a massive discovery on their property that propel the events of the rest of the book.

Like the first book, this one is able to stand heavily on its own. As I’ve said before I don’t like to read books out of order or start in the middle of a series. That being said, you could read this and appreciate it without having read the first, but you probably shouldn’t. There are a lot of callbacks and world-building.

Just like we have a name for the protagonists that span the series in the elders, we are treated to a name for the force of evil that seems to be running rampant in Packers country. The book builds slowly and then cuts loose in a pretty bonkers third act that establishes new precedence for what this force of evil is capable of.

As much as I love the world building, there is an element of middle book syndrome present. The pressure to create a work that connects to book one and also sets up book three is not an enviable one. For the most part, Lloyd balances this task with grace, but there are times where it felt like some elements that should have been resolved at the end of this story, are left to be resolved in book three. Admittedly, this is a minor gripe since it didn’t really detract from my enjoyment of Quinlan’s Secret, and served to get me excited a year ahead of time for Hayward’s Revenge, the upcoming third and final book in the series.

Cailyn Lloyd is something of a well-kept secret in the horror community, and I’m hoping to see that change. I’m anxiously looking forward to how this series wraps up in book three, and I can’t wait to see what she has planned next. Highly recommend this entry in the series to fans of the first, fans of haunted house/tavern stories. There are also some light magical and historical fiction elements present if that’s your thing.


I was given a copy by the author for review consideration.
Profile Image for Steve Stred.
Author 88 books672 followers
June 27, 2020
I connected with Cailyn recently when I had tweeted out about always being open to review pretty much anything. When we emailed, I had misread her email and snagged 'Shepherd's Warning (The Elders Book 1)' when she was actually emailing about 'Quinlan's Secret (The Elders Book 2).' I dove into Book 1, which was a fun time and immediately started Book 2 once finished. Having read them back to back, I must say, watching Lloyd develop this world that's been created is truly amazing.

What I liked: Book 2 follows Josh and Kiera as they renovate a building and open up a tavern. Really quickly, we discover that a lot of accidents and deaths have occurred related to the building. Soon, Josh discovers a hidden door that leads to an underground space. 

It is from here that Lloyd really excels, creating a claustrophobic read that really had me wondering just what was going on and when people start going missing and things really begin to get worse, Lloyd never once let's up. 

This is the second book in the planned trilogy so it will be interesting to see just what is in store for the finale.

What I didn't like: I found this one was rock solid compared to Book 1. Saying that, there were a few characters introduced that I really didn't care for or connect with, so when something would happen with them, I didn't have that much of an emotional reaction. That will happen a lot with secondary characters in most books, so I can't really quantify that as a negative, just something I found! That'll change from reader to reader!

Why you should buy this: I mean, really - secret door and an underground passage. If you read those six words and are intrigued, then you'll need to see what happens! Cailyn is a fantastic writer and this world of The Elders Books she's crafted have been really enjoyable to discover!
Profile Image for Cailyn Lloyd.
Author 5 books84 followers
April 14, 2021
This review pertains to the Audiobook version and the quality of the narration. Hillary Huber does a wonderful job of reading and characterization and truly brings the story to life. Recommended if you enjoy audiobooks.
Profile Image for Keith Chawgo.
484 reviews18 followers
September 3, 2020
Quinlan’s Secret is the follow-up to her Shepherd’s Warning book which we absolutely loved when reviewed last year. Quinlan’s Secret works as a stand-alone but makes a nice follow-up in her Elders Trilogy being second in the series.

The story follows Josh and Keira as they open up a tavern at Miller’s Cross which starts the plot and mystery to unravel. The plotting is very well done and Lloyd does a nice job of carrying the story forward without doing the normal rehashing the first novel’s plot but bleeds it through the entirety of the story to show how it is connected. At first, you wonder how this all adds up but due to the masterfully way this is handled adding another layer into a very well-crafted book. Lloyd is able to connect the dots and keep the pacing going forward without a stall or break whilst keeping everything tightly wound.

The characters are very well drawn, grounded and realistic given the reader insight on their motivations and likability status. All the characters fit within the realm of the story and are very relatable creating a world, like her first, where you feel the intrigue and devastation that befalls some of the characters. Josh and Keira’s relationship is complicated and adds an extra bonus with doubts planted whilst the supporting characters are very well matched.

The mystery involved and the spiritual world are very well handled and believable. Lloyd never over reaches which is something that some authors tend to do. Lloyd never once over eggs the pudding but keeps it fresh and builds the tension throughout. Without given too much away, the mystery of what is underneath the cavern is as fascinating as the mystery from the previous book. At first there seems to be no connection but once this connection is made, it really adds to the overall mythology.

Overall, this is an excellent read and a huge plus for those who are fans of the first. This is also a notch in the belt for Lloyd who goes from strength to strength and especially as her sophomore effort being able to keep this story strong and moving forward is a huge asset. The book has exceptional plotting, likable characters, intriguing plot and a mystery that keeps the reader well invested and on pins and needles until its final conclusion one has to patiently wait for the final book in the series. The book is a standalone and works very well on its own though reading the first book will help the reader fully invested in this mystery and how it all unfolds. This is an excellent read and highly recommended.
Profile Image for Mary.
347 reviews13 followers
March 5, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

So ... I enjoyed this book a lot more than the first one! However, there is one thing, well maybe more than one, that this author does that really peeves me off, but I cannot say as it would be a spoiler, read the book and then come and tell me if you figured it out and if it peeves you off too :)

Having said that, this book's pace was a lot faster than Shepherd's Warning, the first book in this trilogy, and for that I was grateful. As much as I like a slow burn thriller, it just seems too much like an oxymoron.

Good pace, believable and likeable characters. Loved the way everything was brought together at the end, it just made me appreciate this authors writing style and abilities.

I scored one less star as I feel the author delves into too much detail on certain elements that don't add or detract from the story, something that was done in the first book as well, but that is just me, others might enjoy those aspects.

I enjoyed the few references to the characters from the first book, which gave it a continuity element, but didn't focus too much on them that the characters in this book get lost. I hope that in the third book, the author brings all the elements from the first two books in some sort of culmination of all things good.

If you enjoyed the first book, you will definitely enjoy this one. I am looking forward to reading the final book in the series, hoping that the characters we meet will be as likeable and relatable as in this book.

Well worth the read ...
Profile Image for Elles_shelves.
279 reviews2 followers
May 10, 2020
Quinlan's Secret by Cailyn LLoyd is Book 2 in the Elders Book trilogy. This tells the story of Josh Abelson, an attorney who quit his job to open a bar and his girlfriend, Kiera O'Donnell, an archaeologist who quit her job to become a storm chaser. As Josh takes possession of the bar, the former owner casually mentions that the bar is haunted. Josh and Kiera research the bar's history and discover that it was originally called Quinlan's Tavern and that there were a series of violent incidents that did take place in the tavern. While completely renovating the tavern, Josh and Kiera discover a metal panel that is set into the floor in the basement. Of course they decide to investigate and what they discover is something that could potentially rewrite the history of North America. Have they discovered the archaeological find of the century or have they unwittingly unleashed a darkness that could have deadly consequences.
This novel does take place in Miller's Crossing in Wisconsin, which is the same place in Book 1; however, it could almost be a stand alone novel. There are some references to the characters and events that took place in Book 1, but it shouldn't prevent a reader from enjoying without reading Book 1. I do recommend reading Book 1 of course, but it is not necessary. Overall, I did enjoy this story and I look forward to reading Book 3 when it is released in 2021.
2,322 reviews36 followers
November 11, 2020
Josh has been dreaming of quitting his job and owning/running his own tavern. When he and his girlfriend Kiera find a tavern to buy that is haunted. They don’t believe it is haunted. As soon as they move in, they experience the haunting of the tavern. That didn’t stop then with the renovations of the tavern. Josh finds that there is a secret tunnel with a door in the basement’s floor. Josh can’t open it by himself. However, the next day when he goes down to the basement, he sees that the door is open. He goes down the stairs and finds that there is a tunnel. He tells Kiera who goes down and discovers something in the tunnel. What is it? Is it the source of the haunting?

Even though this is the second book of a trilogy, it can be read alone. It is not necessary to read the first one to enjoy this book. The book is about a couples relationship as well as friendship. It’s a fast moving story with unexpected surprises throughout the book. The author has written an excellent novel. I found myself wanting it to not end as I enjoyed it so much. I am going back to read the first book and eagerly await the third book to read.

Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review or any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
Profile Image for Billie.
5,784 reviews71 followers
May 21, 2020
Beware what lurks below…
After years of dreaming and saving money, Josh and Kiera open their own tavern in Miller’s Crossing, a quiet town outside of Milwaukee. Owning a business is everything they imagined until Josh discovers a hidden door leading to a passage underground. At first excited by the discovery, the couple quickly realizes the more they explore below, the more things unravel above. Friends go missing, apparitions appear, and their lives begin to crumble. With nowhere to run, Josh and Kiera soon find themselves in a fight for their very lives.

This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.

I was provided an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. This is my own honest voluntary review.
Profile Image for Christine Scotney.
210 reviews7 followers
February 22, 2021
Thank you to Booksirens and the Author for this remarkable read.
This second instalment of the Elders trilogy is just as good as the first. Although you could read it as a stand-alone,I would recommend reading Shepherds Warning first. Both are connected by the same evil darkness lurking, but with a somewhat totally different scenario.
Kiera and Josh buy a run down old tavern in millers crossing, once purchased, the old owner just happens to slip in that it’s apparently haunted. Josh doesn’t really believe him and sets about gutting and remodelling the tavern, he discovers a big heavy grate in the basement that leads into a tunnel. What is in the tunnel you ask? Grab the book and read to discover an amazing and seemingly impossible fete. Thoroughly enjoyable.
Profile Image for Jeanne.
931 reviews
May 8, 2021
Quinlan’s Secret, the second novel in The Elders series, follows where Shepard’s Warning left off. Laughlan may be looking for retribution in his friend’s murder, but what he find is that Shepard was not able to vanquish the darkness….a darkness that has found a new outlet. Laughlan is searching for the evil that killed such a strong and talented sorcerer as Shepard and finds it in a most unusual place. Josh and Kiera are the new owners of a haunted tavern that was built over a thin place that has recently become quite active. The storyline is great as are the characters in this suspense filled paranormal gem. The cliffhanger ending has me looking forward to the third book in the series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Sean Graham.
223 reviews3 followers
May 21, 2020
The second book in the 'The Elders' series and I was blown away by the fast pace and enjoyable premise - brilliant writing! The premise reminds me of a haunted house scenario and, whilst similar to the first novel, this novel certainly has many more elements that change the rules. For me, I like the main characters, enjoyed the throwback to the first book and, when the horror elements were turned up, thought they were done really well. I was a little disappointed in that I wanted to know some more background to a few of the more mystical elements but this just means Cailyn Lloyd is doing brilliantly building a world I want to know more about! Roll on the next novel!
Profile Image for Jeanne.
1,911 reviews9 followers
July 25, 2021
Quinlan’s Secret is the second book in the Elders series by Cailyn Lloyd.

There are three stories, Josh and Kiera opening Quinlan’s Pub, teenager Rachel hunting for arrowheads, and Lachlan who is following up on the events that took place in Shepherd’s Warning. Eventually you see how the stories intertwine.

I felt like it started slowly, but once it got going, it was full speed ahead. It was very intense and I can’t wait to read the next book.

I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book from BookSirens and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
291 reviews3 followers
June 29, 2020
Warning! Cliff Hanger!

Both books, Quinlan's Secret and Shepard's. warning are beyond Excellent! They grab your attention from beginning to the very last period! But you will be left hanging and we are forced to wait for the final book! Hurry! The suspense is killing me! Now guess I need to get back to work! Excellent writing and very entertaining! Definitely read the entire series and read them in order! Enjoy!!
126 reviews3 followers
March 16, 2021
I enjoyed this book even more than the first book. The storyline was engrossing, meshing well with the first book in the series, but still working equally well as a stand alone story. The characters are well thought out and believable. I definitely recommend this book and look forward to reading the third book in the series.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
166 reviews2 followers
May 7, 2020
Quinlan’s secret is book two in the elder series but to be fair you could probably read it without reading the first one. This one follows elder Lachlan who finds him self fighting an evil force.
I can’t say I enjoyed it as much as the first novel - shepherds warning, but it still kept me engaged and I look forward to the final round next year.
8 reviews
July 26, 2020
Way to weave

This storyline goes by way too fast. Absolutely enamored with the weaving of history, spirit, energy alchemy, and sciences and beloved characters. I absolutely loved Book 1 and can't wait for book 3- believe I had to wait for this one, worth it! Will talk this up amongst my friends!
41 reviews
September 26, 2020
I liked this!

After I finished the first book in this series, I hoped there would be more. I was very happy to see this second book. The writing is very professional. I liked all of the characters in the book. Lachlan was amazing. It's a good scary, paranormal read. I'm glad the third book will be released in 2021. Not soon enough for me though.
63 reviews1 follower
October 28, 2020
Quinlan’s secret is book two in the elder series but to be fair you could probably read it without reading the first one. This one follows elder Lachlan who finds him self fighting an evil force.
I can’t say I enjoyed it as much as the first novel - shepherds warning, but it still kept me engaged and I look forward to the final round next year.
Profile Image for Annarella.
14.2k reviews167 followers
May 18, 2020
This is a good series and this instalment is engrossing and entertaining.
I liked what I read and can't wait for the next book.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
1 review
June 21, 2020
A Must Read!

This book can be read as a standalone or with book one. I recommend reading book one then reading this book two. Unfortunately we will have to wait for a while before reading book three. The story is fast paced with never a dull moment. I enjoyed it very much.
716 reviews5 followers
July 19, 2020
Very intense and consuming story!

Strong characters and a brilliant storyline make this a supernatural feast. I like the carryover from the first Elder book, although this story has a very different theme. Definitely looking forward to the next book in this series. Well done!
Profile Image for Diane Griffiths.
198 reviews3 followers
July 31, 2020
I won this book as a Goodreads giveaway

This is book 2 in the trilogy, but not having read book 1 I still got into it. It is the story of Josh and his girlfriend who bought a bar that happens to be haunted and has a lot of history. I loved the story and it kept you guessing.
16 reviews
September 11, 2020
Somewhat of a late bloomer

The story was very enjoyable but took a bit to really get rolling. The tie in a little slow but stick with it and you will be glad you did. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Darla Jay.
22 reviews3 followers
February 8, 2021
Hooked

Amazing. This was book 2, 4 me.
First a page turner that makes you late for stuff, my bad. The author has an unconventional style and it is hard to predict the twist and turns. Life is real...........
216 reviews6 followers
May 31, 2020
A real page turner. read this in one day; could not put in down. can't wait for the next book!
2 reviews
August 18, 2020
Brilliant.

This book like the 1st ( elders book 1) was a fantastic read. Can’t wait for the 3rd one now
Profile Image for OG.
234 reviews10 followers
August 24, 2020
This is a great book. Great writer. Loved this book more than the first and I cannot wait for book 3!
25 reviews
November 3, 2020
Awesome Read!!!!! Loved the book. Couldn't put it down. The characters are believable and I would definitely recommend this book to family and friends alike.
5 reviews1 follower
December 16, 2020
Missing a lot

Could have been more informative. I don't feel the ship or the 'darkness' were adequately explained. A bit disappointed. No inclination to read next in series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews

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