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Ruthless Sinners MC #3

Secrets We Keep

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Wall Street Journal and USA Today Best Seller L. Wilder brings you a new standalone MC packed with angst, explosive action, and chemistry that will have you begging for more.

Rafe:
In my world, there are secrets at every turn.
It's just the way it is in the MC.
Club business is club business. Period.

Marlowe Davenport, the club's new bartender, had secrets of her own.
The girl was beautiful with captivating, blue eyes that could hypnotize any man.
She'd come to Nashville to escape her past, and I was determined to claim her future.

Unfortunately, the timing couldn't have been worse.
A war was coming, and as the enemy drew closer, I would discover Marlowe had a part to play in it--a part she didn't even know she had.

This addition to the Ruthless Sinner's MC will have you rooting for forgiveness, mended hearts, and second chances. These bikers are foul-mouthed, possessive alphas who will do whatever it takes to protect their women. No cheating and a HEA. While Secrets We Keep is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone.

334 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 13, 2021

626 people are currently reading
405 people want to read

About the author

L. Wilder

70 books2,869 followers
I am a lover of romance novels (especially MC romance), summer breaks, and unexpected quiet moments when I can write without interruptions.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
Profile Image for L. Wilder.
Author 70 books2,869 followers
January 13, 2021
Secrets We Keep is now live on Amazon! It’s only .99 cents during release week, so grab your copy today!
Profile Image for Tpagirl Loves Romance.
1,672 reviews185 followers
January 17, 2021
Secrets We Keep was the third book in the Ruthless Sinners series by L Wilder.

I loved the prologue. It was the perfect back story and beginning for the book. Rafe was a patched member of the MC who had a vital part in each book to date. The prologue took us back to the first time he saw the Sinners as a child and with that, desire and loyalty were born.

Marlowe grew up just the opposite. The only loyalty she ever saw was the loyalty her parents gave to her younger sister. She may not have been physically or sexually abused, but it was mental abuse just the same. She finally cut her ties and made a fresh start thousands of miles away in Nashville, TN. With her new job as a bartender, Marlowe’s life began to intersect with the Sinners and the story fully began.

Wilder took us through Marlowe’s introduction to Nashville and the Ruthless Sinners. Simultaneously, she continued the suspenseful plot from the previous book, which took a few twists and turns unveiling a masterful plot.

In the end, it was a quick, light hearted and enjoyable read that was both well written and well developed. And I loved the MC bond and loyalty that has been the common thread in each book. I’m not sure where Wilder will take us next but we have so many brothers still to explore. My guess is Country or Menace will be next! Regardless, I’m all in and can’t wait!
Profile Image for Giorgia Reads.
1,331 reviews2,238 followers
August 5, 2021
3.5 stars

my favorite out of the series, but that doesn't say much since the others were just meh. I liked this one mostly because I felt like the couple's chemistry was there at the beginning. after awhile it was just more of the same and the action was kinda ridiculous. a good enough pass time though
Profile Image for Angels.
2,034 reviews17 followers
January 18, 2021
This was a really cute story, and it was a lot of fun it had great characters that were engaging that added tons of humor to the story. The teasing and the banter between the men were quite funny and made us laugh throughout the entire story.

We loved Marlowe and Rafe as a couple we loved that they just clicked both sweet, kind, and loving.
Our heart went out to Marlowe for what her family had done to her and their coldness but, we loved how she easily because part of a large and loving family and that she finally found somewhere she belonged.

Overall the chemistry between Marlowe and Rafe was awesome and their combined heat made for quite a lot of hot and sexy scenes. We loved the drama and the surprises the story brought us as a few of them we did not see coming which made us love the story even more. A heartfelt story with new beginnings. We have to give a shout-out to Ford and his generosity what a sweet kind man that made it possible for the dreams of someone special to come true.
43 reviews
January 12, 2021
Another stellar installment of the Ruthless Sinners! Marlowe has lived her life in the shadow of her little sister. Her parents put all of their energy and love into her little sister and pushed Marlowe to the back, eventually pushing Marlowe to leave and discover who she is on her own. She moves to Tennessee where she is no longer in the shadows. Marlowe gets a job at a dive bar owned by one of the Ruthless Sinner’s grandma, and from there, she flourishes and discovers she has allies with the Sinners. Rafe is intrigued by Marlowe, yet based on his brother’s revelation thinks she is not interested in him. Thank goodness for broken compressors on coolers and Rafe’s handyman ways – miscommunication leads to some sizzling chemistry! Unfortunately, Marlowe’s past catches up with her … and it turns out secrets lead to some interesting plot twists that I did not see coming. Wilder keeps you entranced throughout while discovering Marlowe’s secret and her dignity and loyalty with which she handles herself. This is a great read of self discovery and acceptance for our heroine with her steadfast hero supporting her unconditionally. The slow burns sizzles into spontaneous combustion, leading to an everlasting love and acceptance into a family of choice. Definitely a read that will be on my “re-read” list!
Profile Image for Melissa Machado.
511 reviews8 followers
January 15, 2021
The Secrets We Keeps is Book 3 of the Ruthless Sinners MC Series. And the cover is SMOKIN' HOTT!!!! I could stare at that face all day 😍. The story focuses on Rafe and Marlowe.

Rafe was sexy, confident, caring, and loyal. I liked how he took charge when Marlowe needed it. I thought Rafe was a lot more mellow then he was in previous books of the series. If I remember correctly, he was quite the manwhore. But he seemed more reserved in this book, all business.

Marlowe was a sweet, caring, independent, and hard working. She was also some what shy, inexperienced, and lonely. I felt that Marlowe was too passive at times and I wished that she was a little more aggressive. I felt like so many people deserved a tongue lashing (and more) from her but she was too damn nice even though these people didn't even deserve to be in the same room as her.

This book is on the sweeter/tamer side in the series, which I don't mind, it adds variety and keeps things from getting repetative.The plot was well thought out and unpredictable. There was some mystery as well as twists in the story. Not a whole lot of action, but that didn't make or break the story for me. I do feel that we missed some info. Like what happened to Schommer? We never heard about him again, but maybe Wilder plans to use him in her next book...

I always enjoy the banter between the brothers. Country stuck out to me the most in this story. He added a lot of humor but he also had a lot of attitude. I can't wait to see who tames his wild @$$. There are many brothers that have captured my interest and I look forward to the future books in this series and what Wilder has in store for these Ruthless Sinners.
Profile Image for Cali Gal’s.
1,225 reviews146 followers
January 14, 2021
OMG when I saw this book on my kindle a happy dance occurred. It wasn’t pretty but is was enthusiastic. Wink. Ok let me tell you about my read.

Hubba Hubba... what I love! Rafe is my guy. I claim him. Yummy. He is the right mixture of MC bad boy and awesome protector. He is a perfect Sinner. Hee hee.

Marlowe... I actually identify with our heroine throughout the first part of this book in regards to her low self esteem. How her family treated her made my blood boil. I could have hurt someone. It is understandable that she has a poor self image.

The title of this book is appropriate. OMG secrets ARE revealed. You really have NO IDEA until it is dropped in your lap. Eek. My only comment is, after you start learning all, the flow of the story changed a bit. Our heroine does write her parents off but truthfully I was so ticked for her I want her family to suffer. Wink. Yep feeling a tad bit evil. Yikes.

I can’t say more because you need to go in blind with this book. If you are into MC this story is more than worth it. Happy Reading Everyone! XOXO
1,896 reviews8 followers
January 13, 2021
What a great story! Rafe and Marlowe are hot! Action packed, suspenseful, and so intriguing! This author definitely knows how to write MC stories! Keeps your interest from the very beginning! Highly recommend! Received arc and am voluntarily leaving an honest review
Profile Image for Lisa Cullinan.
569 reviews28 followers
March 21, 2021
Marlowe and Rafe add a milder, less dramatic storyline to a series that’s so badass and action-packed that sometimes we need an installment that lets us breathe a bit but isn’t any less brilliant! What does that mean? The next one in the series is gonna be AWESOME!! Leslie Wilder does a great job every single time because her characters come from the heart. Each one of them adds another layer to love and appreciate as part of their big, bad MC family! Leslie’s books make me fall in love all over again with each new release.
243 reviews14 followers
February 21, 2021
Secrets We Keep: Ruthless Sinners Book 3. WOW!

Rafe and Marlowe's story is one nonstop rollercoaster ride. The plot twists and turns will keep you on the edge of seat and the sexy bits will keep you up reading late into the night. Secrets We Keep picks up where Shotgun and Remington's story ended. Little did we know that previous stories and past enemies would become so relevant now.
I always suggest reading an author's books and series in the order written and do so with L Wilder's Satan's Fury MC and Ruthless Sinners. Thank you Leslie for sharing your alpha bikers and their kickass ladies with us. Can't wait for the next book in the series, please let it be Country. He definitely needs an ol' lady.
Profile Image for Nerdy Dirty & Flirty.
3,985 reviews362 followers
January 17, 2021
description
Within the first few pages I was drawn into this book. I was ready to just curl up in bed or on the couch and get lost in this story.

The introduction to Rafe was memorable and then when Marlowe was introduced it both broke my heart and also instantly had me rooting for her. I felt bad for her situation that lead her and Rafe to meet, but also had to be happy that they did.

I loved the protectiveness and loyalty of both Rafe and the entire MC towards those they cared for. It was a trait that was shown often throughout the book.

I also loved the fun moments of banter between the guys. There were plenty of unexpected twists for me that just kept me coming back any time I had to set the book down.

And the wrap up was perfect for the leading couple in this story.

I now not only want to go back and ready the first two books I missed in this series but am also excited for what's to come. And I was happy that I was able to jump into this one without feeling like I really missed anything by not having read the first two even though I have no idea how I missed not one but two L. Wilder releases.

This is one I would highly recommend to fellow MC romance fans.
Profile Image for Doris.
3,594 reviews138 followers
January 13, 2021
Another Great Ruthless Sinner!!

Rafe and Marlowe were great together. Rafe is a great BBF that I won’t soon forget and Marlowe is a self-made feisty woman who has one messed up family which she left behind. Oh, but the secrets that are behind her story were what made this made this book near impossible to put down. The suspense, chemistry and MC loyalty was what every MC book should be about.

You don’t want to miss this next installment of the Ruthless Sinners MC. From the first page to the last I was enthralled the whole time. I can’t wait to see what comes next.
Profile Image for Elysian Fields.
2,190 reviews37 followers
January 15, 2021
Secrets We Keep is a ride and a half. From the first sentence I was interested in following Rafe and discovering everything about him. It's no secret I read MC for tge male lead alpha so I was beyond thrilled when Rafe turned out to be pretty darn awesome, LOL. What I loved more about this story was the characters, their attitudes, action, beliefs and their family vibe. This author knows how to give the reader and action packed, grit driven exciting romance everytime. This story was a pleasure to read.
Profile Image for Ashley Carr, LSoR.
4,992 reviews62 followers
January 22, 2021
I absolutely love Marlowe and Rafe!! These two have exceptional chemistry despite their vastly different upbringings. Rafe confident, caring and oh so sexy. Marlowe is sweet and independent. They balance each other out well. She is the new bartender and he has had his eye on her from the first time he met her. But will everything work out when secrets are exposed? I can’t wait for the next installment of this excellent series!!
2,014 reviews24 followers
November 7, 2021
There wasn't any mention of wether or not he was with someone after meeting her. She had lived there a year before they got closer, no mention of timeline of H's past but there was many. I liked both mc's, just when I was afraid the H would hit arsehole he dialed it down a notch. The bad guy, his threats and what he did in her apartment were a tad corny. Overall the best one of this series for me
Profile Image for Shirl.
1,024 reviews45 followers
June 16, 2022
Another good one. It seems that every time the club gets one mess sorted another one comes along. Marlowe's life wasn't bad but it wasn't good either. She had parents who hardly acknowledged her but dotted on her little sister. Little sister got everything she wanted even if it meant taking it away from Marlowe. Once she was old enough she left home and found a different place to settle down and start her life over. Unbeknown to her someone was directing her to where they wanted her.
Rafe is the one in the Ruthless Sinners MC. They met while she was a bartender at a small bar that one of Rafe's brothers Grandmother ran. They never spoke but was friendly with the other brothers until one night when he was fixing something and they got to know each other. She didn't know it but someone else was pulling those strings too.
In case you haven't figured it out there's a lot of secrets that needs to come to light.
There's one part of each of this series I don't like and I've forgotten to mention it. Ada is a friend of the club and a much older lady. The way the author has her talking is awful. She sounds like an uneducated country hick. I just don't know how to explain it but know it's not nice.
On to the next book.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
927 reviews24 followers
January 25, 2021
L. Wilder brings a suspenseful story loaded with unexpected turns and a swoony romance as the cherry on top in Secrets We Keep.

Rafe was the guy that was hard to tie down and loyal without question to his Brothers in the Ruthless Sinners MC. Yet he was more than just a handsome face with a charming disposition he was deeper than most people gave him credit for. Marlowe spent most of her life questioning her worth and it was not until she left her old life behind to start a new one that she learned to acknowledge her value. This couple's attraction was initially very sweet with a constant simmer that both Rafe and Marlow kept to themselves but when it was revealed and reciprocated the steam factor heated up the pages. Rafe and Marlowe we each other's biggest champions and were a well devised pairing. This author added a fantastic layer of edgy tension to her story with secrets that built up and were exposed with skilled precision keeping readers on tenterhooks throughout her work. An engaging secondary cast contributed to this story and created anticipation for future books in this series.

L. Wilder not only reaches her readers on an emotional level but she makes her characters available on an ordinary level so that they can be relatable to anybody, regardless of their background, in their struggles. This author has mastered creating intriguing ongoing plots that are impossible to pull away from and stand on their own as well. With versatility in her writing and a storylines open to kinds of possibilities, once again L. Wilder takes her reader's on another unforgettable adventure in Secrets We Keep!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own. *
*While part of a series this book can be read as a stand alone.*

Profile Image for World Of Books 65.
3,224 reviews60 followers
January 14, 2021
'Secrets We Keep' will draw you in from the start and once again L. Wilder managed to pull of a great story with a Secret I didn't even see coming! If you like your MC romances with a bit of suspense that will keep you on your toes then you will just love Ralf and Marlowe's story and don't worry it is sizzlingly hot as well!

Marlowe's relationship with her mom, dad and sister has never been great even from childhood so when she can she ups and leaves and relocates herself to Tennessee no money and needing a job she finds a bar job at Crockett's which is owned and run by the grandmother of Country a member of the Sinners. Happy and contend at last life is great for Marlowe and when she saves enough money she can resume her college courses!

Rafe also part of the Sinners has had a soft spot for Marlowe since she came to town but they have never spent any real time getting to know each other. Well that is about to change and when it does those sparks are about to fly! But club business comes first and when an old enemy comes back things are about to take a turn for the worse in more ways than one.

Another award winning story by this great author!
Profile Image for Spunky N Sassy.
5,392 reviews119 followers
February 2, 2021
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 5.0

~~~~~~~~~~Julie's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~

Rafe is all about his MC. He is a good man with a caring heart. Marlowe thought she got out from under her family but her world turns upside when she learns the truth. Danger, new beginnings and a lot of Alpha men give this storyline the perfect pace. Awesome writing.

~~~~~~~~~~Tracy's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~

More Ruthless Sinners MC, yes please!!! Rafe has wanted to be in the Ruthless Sinners MC forever and now he is living his dream and thought his world was perfect until he lays his eyes on Marlowe. Marlowe thought she left her problems back in San Antonio but like everything her past comes back with surprises that could destroy everything she has created. I loved this story and how protective the MC is for those they love. Love this series so much and L. Wilder is one of my go to authors, this author is one not to miss.
Profile Image for Natalie Weston Book Club Gone Wrong .
79 reviews8 followers
January 14, 2021
L. Wilder has done it again in this latest edition to the Ruthless Sinners MC series. This action-packed thriller will hook from the very beginning and hold you till the very end. Rafe is a dreamy, swoon-worthy hero with a badboy side. Marlowe is sweet but tough. She as lived a life where she has felt like she never fit in. That is until she meets the boys of the Ruthless Sinners MC. She is finally starting to feel like she's found where she belongs. But when her past catches up to her the secrets that unfold can not only destroy her, the new life she has built for herself and the man she's in love with.

"Secrets don't care about the casualties they leave in
their wake."

I would definitely recommend this book.
5 must read stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Can I just ask the question? Why are Miss Wilders cover so HOT. 🔥🔥
136 reviews
January 13, 2021
This is the 3rd book in the Ruthless Sinners Series.

Rafe has always wanted to be a member of the Ruthless Sinners, after a chance encounter with Country, he got his chance and has never looked back. He thought his life was all about the club and his brothers until he met Marlowe.

Marlowe Davenport, left he family behind after she’d had enough of living in the shadows of her sister. Wanting to do something for herself she packed up her belongings and looked for a place she could call home. What she wasn’t expecting was to also fall for a biker or for her past to come back to haunt her, a past she didn’t even know she had.

I loved Rafe and Marlowe’s story, this is another great addition to the series and you get the chance to se more of the more of the other too. I can’t wait for the next book.
Profile Image for Read All About It.
2,029 reviews23 followers
January 14, 2021
This was another great edition to the Ruthless Sinner’s.

Marlowe never felt like she belonged in her family so as soon as she’s old enough she left to start a new life in another state.

The Sinners have had there share of trouble in recent years. Now there is a new hidden threat .

Rafe and Marlowe are combustible.

“Well, in that case, you’re right. I didn’t ask.” His eyes were trained on mine as I teased. “So, do hot, bad-boy bikers like yourself even have a type?” “Absolutely.”“Ooo-kay.” A playful smirk slipped across my lips as I asked, “Then, what’s yours?” “I’m looking at her.”

Twists and secrets threaten to destroy them.

“Looks like you have some ’splaining to do, Lucy.”

Country is hilarious!!

I can’t wait to see who’s next.
Profile Image for Brenda.
45 reviews
January 14, 2021
Leslie Wilder has done it again! Secrets We Keep is the latest release in her Ruthless Sinners MC series, and what an AMAZING book. As usual Leslie has given us a story with great characters and a story that goes from one scene to the next effortlessly. Rafe and Marlowe are incredible together. Marlowe has lived in the shadows of her younger sister. With little to none self esteem Marlowe leaves home for a fresh start in another state. Rafe has wanted the new bartender at dive bar that his MC brothers grandmother owns. Just when things are going good for both Rafe and Marlowe the past rears its ugly head. With so much to lose Rafe, Marlowe and the rest of the Sinners fight to keep what they love. I highly recommend this author to anyone that loves MC book.
Profile Image for Terra Oenning.
3,530 reviews
January 14, 2021
Where do I begin with this phenomenal book. This book will have you taking in every word that is written and you can connect with the characters emotions and struggles . Rafe remembers seeing the ms riding by and wants to be one of them but who knew h we would have a chance and now with the club coming off a bad fight with the Itialian Mafia can they let their guard down? Marlowe has always grown up unloved and in the shadows of her sister Kate but when she has had enough she moves away and starts a life for herself and finds her self happy for the first-time in her life but when she meets rafe can they keep the fire they feel for each other going or will it end in bloodshed? This book had me hooked from the beginning until the end and omg its one hell of love story.
Profile Image for Jess.
3,179 reviews26 followers
January 11, 2021
Oh my goodness! This one was a very exciting read with a few unexpected twists and turns!

Marlowe has been working at a bar for about a year when she finally befriends Rafe. These two have both been attracted to each other this whole time and now they are finally acting on it. Finally!
When Marlowe finds herself in a bit of trouble, she realizes she can count on Rafe and his brothers to be there during her time of need. The question is - why does she need them to be there for her??? Eek! Read this one to find out.

This story was great!
Yes, it’s part of a series, but each story features a different couple and can be read on its own with no knowledge of the prior stories.
Profile Image for Sue.
4,343 reviews5 followers
January 12, 2021
Another great read. Marlowe has had a dificult life with her family, always being on the outside and not understanding why. I mean when you are a little kid you just want to be loved. But moving across the country, she was bound and determined to make a new life for herself. She meets Rafe at Crockett's, Country's grans place, a dive bar and that's where she gets her first job. But there's a lot of secrets she's not aware of with her family. Rafe wants to make her his and she's all for it. There's danger, plenty of steam, humor for sure and a HEA. Received this book free for an honest review.
Profile Image for Rose.
1,453 reviews14 followers
January 13, 2021
Another fantastic addition to the Ruthless Sinners series. Some really good twists and turns with connections to the previous books in the series. I loved Rafe and Marlowe.

Favorite passage: The low rumble quickly morphed into a thunderous roar as the bikes continued in my direction. I was beside myself. Every fiber of my being was vibrating with anticipation; in my gut, I knew something big was about to happen. (Totally resonated in my soul! Something I feel every time I hear a bunch of bikes going down the road.)
Profile Image for Nicole.
2,163 reviews1 follower
January 13, 2021
Ruthless Sinners bk 3.
MF.
Rafe (Joshua Ralph) and Marlowe.
Well written, story flows freely and easily. Story fits in well with the series. It is a delight to read.

But boy poor Marlowe, growing up in that home. Kate and her parents are real piece's of work. You don't need enemies, when you have family like that. Good thing for Marlowe, that she now has the Ruthless Sinners as her family.
Recommend the book and the series.
As I have said many times before, you really can't go wrong with a L Wilder book.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
1,573 reviews18 followers
January 13, 2021
Rafe and Marlowe’s story takes you on one hell of a ride! I love how the little snip-its of the past are extremely well done and perfectly placed throughout the story. It really helps extend the depth of the characters and their backgrounds. Rafe’s commitment to Marlowe is wonderful. The way he helps her see herself as the person she actually is instead of second best to her sister was refreshing. And of course Country and his antics make you laugh! Great story!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews

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