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Secret Devotion
A love so pure, it’s lasted more than twenty years.
Tanner Scott and Chantell Warren fought to keep their love alive, even while hiding their relationship from the world around them. The love they felt for each other grew into something undeniable, even if no one else knew. After so many secrets and lies, their relationship has begun to fray. The bonds are being tested, stretched, and torn. Long-held secrets are bubbling up to the surface, raising ugly doubts and difficult questions about the strength of their love.
Tanner loved Chantell more than words could say. He would gladly tell the world, shouting it from the rooftops, if only his father hadn’t threatened to cut him out of his inheritance. He’d allowed greed, and his own fear, to force him into doing something shameful.
Chantell would give everything she had to be at Tanner’s side. If only her parents weren’t so disappointed in her life choices, especially her acceptance of being hidden away. No woman should be placed in this situation.
How can Tanner and Chantell survive a lifetime together, when they’re unable to see their way past the outside world threatening to tear them apart?
*Contemporary Romance | BWWM Interracial | Novella | HEA*
Tanner Scott and Chantell Warren fought to keep their love alive, even while hiding their relationship from the world around them. The love they felt for each other grew into something undeniable, even if no one else knew. After so many secrets and lies, their relationship has begun to fray. The bonds are being tested, stretched, and torn. Long-held secrets are bubbling up to the surface, raising ugly doubts and difficult questions about the strength of their love.
Tanner loved Chantell more than words could say. He would gladly tell the world, shouting it from the rooftops, if only his father hadn’t threatened to cut him out of his inheritance. He’d allowed greed, and his own fear, to force him into doing something shameful.
Chantell would give everything she had to be at Tanner’s side. If only her parents weren’t so disappointed in her life choices, especially her acceptance of being hidden away. No woman should be placed in this situation.
How can Tanner and Chantell survive a lifetime together, when they’re unable to see their way past the outside world threatening to tear them apart?
*Contemporary Romance | BWWM Interracial | Novella | HEA*
98 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 29, 2020
154 people are currently reading
34 people want to read
About the author
Reana Malori
89 books388 followersThe characters I write will not be perfect. None of us are. They will make mistakes. All of the hero's will have redeeming qualities, but on the outset, you may not be their biggest fan. My heroine's will be the kind of women you want to hang out with. They're the women next door, down the street and around the corner. They are the ladies you would want to spend time with on a Saturday night drinking a martini.
I have been an avid reader of romance novels since the age of 14 and know what appeals to me as reader. My goal is, and will always be, to provide that same experience for the women and men who read my novellas and short stories.
I’m a former Marine and served for 8 years, so strong military men will always be a favorite topic of mine. I will continue to write stories with military heroes’ front and center. I’m also a fan of Alpha-males and strong women who love with everything they have.
I have been an avid reader of romance novels since the age of 14 and know what appeals to me as reader. My goal is, and will always be, to provide that same experience for the women and men who read my novellas and short stories.
I’m a former Marine and served for 8 years, so strong military men will always be a favorite topic of mine. I will continue to write stories with military heroes’ front and center. I’m also a fan of Alpha-males and strong women who love with everything they have.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
January 8, 2023
1.7 stars
it was a just fine, .5 cute(ish) novella
it’s an interracial romance-bwwm-where they’ve been in a hidden relationship for 8 whole years cause the guy’s father was against their relationship
the father’s reason was just so ???
i also wasn’t a fan of the writing style
lss: it was an okayish read
it was a just fine, .5 cute(ish) novella
it’s an interracial romance-bwwm-where they’ve been in a hidden relationship for 8 whole years cause the guy’s father was against their relationship
the father’s reason was just so ???
i also wasn’t a fan of the writing style
lss: it was an okayish read
October 4, 2020
Linda Christiani
Omg I just loved this book it's the kind of story that has you steadily turning pages buy you don't want it to. End so I definitely recommend!!!!
Omg I just loved this book it's the kind of story that has you steadily turning pages buy you don't want it to. End so I definitely recommend!!!!
October 5, 2020
Great story of 2 people staying together despite the hardships. I love the childhood love that grows into a deep love that we all wish to have. This story was well written and flowed together perfectly.
October 4, 2020
You Have to Fight for What You Want
This was a nice and pleasant read that really highlights “love conquers all”. It was quite interesting to see that Chantelle and Tanner both recognized their faults, but were still able to overcome their challenges. This book reminded me that communication in a relationship is so important. I could see the perspective of both characters. Yes, Tanner was wrong for how this relationship was established...but Chantelle needed to own up to her part in going along with this situation for so long. That old adage of “a man will only do what you allow him to do” was evident in this story. Overall, this was a good, quick read. OAN: I hope that Chantelle’s friend Sonya will get her own story. I’d really like for her to get her HEA because she deserves one.
This was a nice and pleasant read that really highlights “love conquers all”. It was quite interesting to see that Chantelle and Tanner both recognized their faults, but were still able to overcome their challenges. This book reminded me that communication in a relationship is so important. I could see the perspective of both characters. Yes, Tanner was wrong for how this relationship was established...but Chantelle needed to own up to her part in going along with this situation for so long. That old adage of “a man will only do what you allow him to do” was evident in this story. Overall, this was a good, quick read. OAN: I hope that Chantelle’s friend Sonya will get her own story. I’d really like for her to get her HEA because she deserves one.
October 31, 2020
Sweet Short
Parents have a lot of influence over our lives, but it becomes overbearing when you become an adult. Tanner and Chantelle were childhood friends turned lovers. Due to his trauma, Tanner's father didn't want him dating Chantelle. They'd loved each other so long. From the time he met her, he kept her with him. He defied his father and she disappointed her parents, but they continued their love in secret. It all came to a head when Chantelle gave Tanner an ultimatum. He had to make a choice or she would choose for them.
Parents have a lot of influence over our lives, but it becomes overbearing when you become an adult. Tanner and Chantelle were childhood friends turned lovers. Due to his trauma, Tanner's father didn't want him dating Chantelle. They'd loved each other so long. From the time he met her, he kept her with him. He defied his father and she disappointed her parents, but they continued their love in secret. It all came to a head when Chantelle gave Tanner an ultimatum. He had to make a choice or she would choose for them.
October 27, 2020
Reana Malori explores the twenty-year secret between Tanner Scott and Chantell Warren, a secret relationship to which they both agreed, but like all things, hidden a light begins to shine and reveal the cracks. Will this relationship be so easily broken? Will Tanner fight for the love of this life or will Chantell remain the hidden woman behind the man. This was a great story about a twin flame; Tanner and Chantell are so much more than soul mates; they are halves that make each other whole.
October 14, 2020
As always, I am in awe of how great Reana Malori's book are. This read is fantastic and it deals with a real life issue, someone trying to dictate who you love. The book has a incredible storyline, excellent character interaction, love, potential heartbreak and standing up for the one you love. I highly recommend you adding this one to your library!!!
October 12, 2020
Not bad at all...
This was a quick read that kept my interest.
I liked Tanner and Chantelle but it seemed like they created this whole situation themselves. Chantelle should’ve put her foot down years ago and Tanner should’ve stood up to his Father if Chantelle was the love of his life.
Everything wrapped up a little too nicely and it made it seem as if the drama was in the heads.
Still an enjoyable read.
This was a quick read that kept my interest.
I liked Tanner and Chantelle but it seemed like they created this whole situation themselves. Chantelle should’ve put her foot down years ago and Tanner should’ve stood up to his Father if Chantelle was the love of his life.
Everything wrapped up a little too nicely and it made it seem as if the drama was in the heads.
Still an enjoyable read.
October 23, 2020
The more things change the more they are the same
Tanner and Chantelle had loved each other since he was eight and she was seven. Where ever Tanner went, Chantelle was right there with him. As teens, their love for each other deepened and was noticed by their parents. Bertrand Scott refused to allow his only son be so involved with a girl of color. Even though their parents were good friends, Bertrand Scott wanted a nice girl that would best fit the family and proceeded to suggest such when Tanner finished school. Tanner was not having it. Chantelle was the only woman for him and he had a plan, but that plan was taking too long for her. She would not be his hidden secret anymore. Her ultimatum and confession changed his plans.
This was a heartbreaking and heartwarming story all in one. Reana wrote a story that showed that some attitudes may have changed over time but their affects were still the same to the heart. Mr. Scott’s story was heartbreaking but understandable. I was not sure how to feel about Chantelle. She had some patience but I understood her ultimatum too. Tanner finally got the balls to stand up to his father’s boorish ways so he and Chantelle can finally have their HEA.
Tanner and Chantelle had loved each other since he was eight and she was seven. Where ever Tanner went, Chantelle was right there with him. As teens, their love for each other deepened and was noticed by their parents. Bertrand Scott refused to allow his only son be so involved with a girl of color. Even though their parents were good friends, Bertrand Scott wanted a nice girl that would best fit the family and proceeded to suggest such when Tanner finished school. Tanner was not having it. Chantelle was the only woman for him and he had a plan, but that plan was taking too long for her. She would not be his hidden secret anymore. Her ultimatum and confession changed his plans.
This was a heartbreaking and heartwarming story all in one. Reana wrote a story that showed that some attitudes may have changed over time but their affects were still the same to the heart. Mr. Scott’s story was heartbreaking but understandable. I was not sure how to feel about Chantelle. She had some patience but I understood her ultimatum too. Tanner finally got the balls to stand up to his father’s boorish ways so he and Chantelle can finally have their HEA.
October 6, 2020
Heartbreaking Love!!
If I could say 10⭐'s I would. The love Tanner and Chantelle had was so deep. But betrayal secrets money broke my heart. But I will tell the readers this The only way Tanner could really take care of them financially would be to marry the woman his father chose for him in order to get his inheritance. But 20 years in a secret relationship Chantelle had agreed to had began to weigh in on her. But why know start complaining honey 20 years have pasted you can't just blame Tanner she had fault to. But she did show him she was not playing anymore she gave him options. Heartbreaking I cried for Tanner and Chantelle. But mainly Tanner. But anyway this is a beautiful story and once again my girl "Reana" gave me a great read.
If I could say 10⭐'s I would. The love Tanner and Chantelle had was so deep. But betrayal secrets money broke my heart. But I will tell the readers this The only way Tanner could really take care of them financially would be to marry the woman his father chose for him in order to get his inheritance. But 20 years in a secret relationship Chantelle had agreed to had began to weigh in on her. But why know start complaining honey 20 years have pasted you can't just blame Tanner she had fault to. But she did show him she was not playing anymore she gave him options. Heartbreaking I cried for Tanner and Chantelle. But mainly Tanner. But anyway this is a beautiful story and once again my girl "Reana" gave me a great read.
October 5, 2020
Even when they were kids, Scott and Chantell knew that their friendship was special, and as time passed that special feeling turned into a secret devotion. With some strong opposition from family members Scott and Chantell decided to keep their romance a secret, but what’s done in the dark always comes to the light and they soon learn whether the bond they have can survive the fallout.
Chantell and Scott’s path to happily ever after is not a easy one but in the end, was well worth the bumps in the road along the way. This was a sweet story of forbidden love that would not be denied and is great short read for anytime you need a quick fix of romance.
Chantell and Scott’s path to happily ever after is not a easy one but in the end, was well worth the bumps in the road along the way. This was a sweet story of forbidden love that would not be denied and is great short read for anytime you need a quick fix of romance.
October 16, 2020
Tanner's Obsession!
They both knew from a young age that they wanted to be together as a couple one day! Because they thought the town in which they lived would shun them, as an interracial couple, they hid their relationship. But, once Chantell became pregnant things got shaken up a bit, but they settled down again just fine. The reason for my 5 stars is that this was put together by the author in such a way as to impact the emotions and it really pulled you in to what this couple was feeling by giving their internal dialogue.
They both knew from a young age that they wanted to be together as a couple one day! Because they thought the town in which they lived would shun them, as an interracial couple, they hid their relationship. But, once Chantell became pregnant things got shaken up a bit, but they settled down again just fine. The reason for my 5 stars is that this was put together by the author in such a way as to impact the emotions and it really pulled you in to what this couple was feeling by giving their internal dialogue.
October 2, 2020
Devotion
Tanner and Chantell found each other as young children. Over time, their relationship changed from best friends to secret lovers. Due to Tanner’s father’s reaction to their relationship, they couldn’t claim one another publicly. However, a change of circumstances forces everyone to re-examine what matters most. This was a quick, sweet read that pulls at your heart strings.
Tanner and Chantell found each other as young children. Over time, their relationship changed from best friends to secret lovers. Due to Tanner’s father’s reaction to their relationship, they couldn’t claim one another publicly. However, a change of circumstances forces everyone to re-examine what matters most. This was a quick, sweet read that pulls at your heart strings.
October 5, 2020
This story pulled at the heartstrings. I felt so much for Chantell. She and Tanner had loved each other for such a long time and although they’d both agreed to their secret, she came out on the raw end of the deal, at least in my opinion. The bulk of the story only spanned a couple of weeks, but you get the feel of Tanner and Chantell’s entire relationship thanks to great storytelling. This story had me deep in my feels and I almost gave up on Tanner but they got their HEA.
October 22, 2020
SIMPLY AMAZING!!!
This book was recommended by UniqueWords, LLC!
Tanner Scott has loved Chantell Warren since KINDERGARTEN!!!! Now 20 years later, their love is tested!! To the breaking point. But REAL LOVE conquers all obstacles!!!! His father is against their relationship. But his reason is not what you may think!!! THE REASON WILL BLOW YOU AWAY!!!!
Reana...Thank you for another masterpiece!!! Happy Writing 🤗🤗🤗 #FanForLife
This book was recommended by UniqueWords, LLC!
Tanner Scott has loved Chantell Warren since KINDERGARTEN!!!! Now 20 years later, their love is tested!! To the breaking point. But REAL LOVE conquers all obstacles!!!! His father is against their relationship. But his reason is not what you may think!!! THE REASON WILL BLOW YOU AWAY!!!!
Reana...Thank you for another masterpiece!!! Happy Writing 🤗🤗🤗 #FanForLife
October 23, 2020
She let this man keep her as a secret for 8 years and is only now at her wits end. You’ve got to be kidding me
Tanner came of as a punk to me bc he was ruled by his father for years. He should of confronted him sooner. Chantell should demanded tanner treated like she was worthy much earlier. Bc of this I spent much of the book annoyed with them both.
Interesting twist with tanner’s dad and why he felt the way he did about their relationship.
Tanner came of as a punk to me bc he was ruled by his father for years. He should of confronted him sooner. Chantell should demanded tanner treated like she was worthy much earlier. Bc of this I spent much of the book annoyed with them both.
Interesting twist with tanner’s dad and why he felt the way he did about their relationship.
February 6, 2021
I really enjoyed this short story. I loved the communication between Chantelle and Tanner. They both pursued what they wanted. I liked that Chantelle didn’t back down about how their arrangement made her feel and how Tanner fought for what he wanted. They both got too comfortable and after a while, their arrangement started to weigh down on them.
I hate that I had this book on my TBR list for months. I should have read it sooner.
I recommend this love story!
I hate that I had this book on my TBR list for months. I should have read it sooner.
I recommend this love story!
November 12, 2021
Hidden Love
Loved each other since they were children, Tanner always knew that Chantell will be his wife . But life is never so simple, not to mention they lived in a small town were bigotry is still existed. They decided to keep their relationship a secret that is until she decided she deserved better and she will not be anyone's dirty secret.
Find out what happened next, because Tanner will not loose Chantell because she is his everything.
Loved each other since they were children, Tanner always knew that Chantell will be his wife . But life is never so simple, not to mention they lived in a small town were bigotry is still existed. They decided to keep their relationship a secret that is until she decided she deserved better and she will not be anyone's dirty secret.
Find out what happened next, because Tanner will not loose Chantell because she is his everything.
April 17, 2025
EXCELLENT!!
I really enjoyed this book. TANNER & CHANTELL were passionate, loving and the chemistry was off the chain. IMO this is one is Ms Malori’s better books. Many of her FMC are weak, with low self esteem and had rough childhood, so to read about CHANTELL and her strong, determined personality was refreshing. Since this is an old book, I wonder if she ever wrote a story for Simone🤔🤔🤔.
I really enjoyed this book. TANNER & CHANTELL were passionate, loving and the chemistry was off the chain. IMO this is one is Ms Malori’s better books. Many of her FMC are weak, with low self esteem and had rough childhood, so to read about CHANTELL and her strong, determined personality was refreshing. Since this is an old book, I wonder if she ever wrote a story for Simone🤔🤔🤔.
October 3, 2020
Interesting
This was an interesting read. The story read like the reader entered it mid stream. Chantell is trying to right a decision she feels she wrongly made, while Tanner is trying to understand why. Both characters seemed weak and unwilling to do what truly needed to be done to achieve their ultimate goal. The HEA was actually surprising.
This was an interesting read. The story read like the reader entered it mid stream. Chantell is trying to right a decision she feels she wrongly made, while Tanner is trying to understand why. Both characters seemed weak and unwilling to do what truly needed to be done to achieve their ultimate goal. The HEA was actually surprising.
October 4, 2020
Great to me
I enjoyed reading this book. it had drama even though it was more of miscommunication than anything. I was glad that between chantell and tanner got it together before they went before the parents. Glad to know that the father just had a heart problem and not a hate problem. Story was recommended by unique words thanks.
I enjoyed reading this book. it had drama even though it was more of miscommunication than anything. I was glad that between chantell and tanner got it together before they went before the parents. Glad to know that the father just had a heart problem and not a hate problem. Story was recommended by unique words thanks.
October 4, 2020
Recommended by UniqueWords,LLC
I loved how this couple was able to overcome the challenges they faced. The twist with Tanners dad was something I didn’t see coming. But I loved Tanner and Chantell together. The author did a great job packing a great story into such a short book without it feeling rushed.
I loved how this couple was able to overcome the challenges they faced. The twist with Tanners dad was something I didn’t see coming. But I loved Tanner and Chantell together. The author did a great job packing a great story into such a short book without it feeling rushed.
October 6, 2020
Secret Lovers
Tanner and Chantell have been in love since forever. They met as small children and both just always knew what their future held. Obstacles stood in their path to happiness by way of their fathers so this couple had been hiding their relationship for years. Short but cute read and nice to see them stand up for their love.
Tanner and Chantell have been in love since forever. They met as small children and both just always knew what their future held. Obstacles stood in their path to happiness by way of their fathers so this couple had been hiding their relationship for years. Short but cute read and nice to see them stand up for their love.
October 9, 2020
If Loving You Is Wrong, I Don’t Want To Be Right
Well, Ms. Malori has written another fiery, poignant tale of angsty passion and reconciliation with a swoony male lead and vulnerable female. I do like how men are men in her stories, and women can be feminine yet grapple with independence.
Well, Ms. Malori has written another fiery, poignant tale of angsty passion and reconciliation with a swoony male lead and vulnerable female. I do like how men are men in her stories, and women can be feminine yet grapple with independence.
October 22, 2020
Short and sweet
This was a really short and sweet book. I was happy they Tanner and Chantelle got their HEA. I really think his father could have approached his worry for his son in a different way. Nevertheless, everything worked out fine. If you’re looking for a quick romantic read this is it for you.
This book was recommended to me by Unique Words,LLC
This was a really short and sweet book. I was happy they Tanner and Chantelle got their HEA. I really think his father could have approached his worry for his son in a different way. Nevertheless, everything worked out fine. If you’re looking for a quick romantic read this is it for you.
This book was recommended to me by Unique Words,LLC
November 3, 2020
Short story
The past is never really the past, because the present was once someone else’s future.
This story was a quick read about two loves of a different background and the choice they made to love secretly. It was a quick read depicting of today’s struggle for many interracial relationships.
It was a suggested book. I enjoyed it.
The past is never really the past, because the present was once someone else’s future.
This story was a quick read about two loves of a different background and the choice they made to love secretly. It was a quick read depicting of today’s struggle for many interracial relationships.
It was a suggested book. I enjoyed it.
May 10, 2021
Great love story!
Ms. Malori never disappoints with her love stories! Tanner and Chantel went through a lot to keep their love, but they did so and was granted their happy ever after! We understood why Tanner's father was so set against them being together and even that brought tears to my eyes! Ms. Maori, I look forward to your next release in a few months! Thank you!
Ms. Malori never disappoints with her love stories! Tanner and Chantel went through a lot to keep their love, but they did so and was granted their happy ever after! We understood why Tanner's father was so set against them being together and even that brought tears to my eyes! Ms. Maori, I look forward to your next release in a few months! Thank you!
February 20, 2025
Heartwarming!
Even though it is fictional, I'm glad that this book dug deeper into interracial dating and marriage. It really touched on some of the many issues that could arise when dating or marrying outside of your race or ethnic background. Love has no color. Unfortunately, that is all people see and not the heart of the person. Don't block your blessing or forever!
Even though it is fictional, I'm glad that this book dug deeper into interracial dating and marriage. It really touched on some of the many issues that could arise when dating or marrying outside of your race or ethnic background. Love has no color. Unfortunately, that is all people see and not the heart of the person. Don't block your blessing or forever!
October 11, 2020
Short and Sweet...
I found a few errors. Some missing words and some extra added words. But other than that this was a ok read. I'm not a fan of weak heroine 's , but that's just my opinion.
I found a few errors. Some missing words and some extra added words. But other than that this was a ok read. I'm not a fan of weak heroine 's , but that's just my opinion.
October 11, 2020
Short and too the point
This story was good. It was to the point. I usually like this author's work. Th I was no exception. We often go along with things as long as it suits you. Then when things change we need to change.
This story was good. It was to the point. I usually like this author's work. Th I was no exception. We often go along with things as long as it suits you. Then when things change we need to change.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews