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Otherside Heat #1
Secrets and Truths
Sparks fly when the hunter becomes the hunted.
Half-elven bounty hunter Lya Desmarais is living in exile in North Carolina after getting into trouble back home. When her boss makes it clear he's got a target on her back, she seeks dangerous allies to regain control of her future.
Vampire vagabond Cade is running from his past and thirsty for more powerful blood than mundanes can offer. Most of Otherside is off-limits, but the human-blooded are fair game. When he and Lya cross paths in a scandalously sexy way at a Raleigh nightclub, Cade finds the perfect target.
But nothing is ever as straightforward as it seems in the supernatural community, not even lust. And for love to win, predator and prey must find a way to meet in the middle—or die trying.
Told from two perspectives, this red-hot, action-packed vampire romance has no cheating, no cliffhangers, and a happy ending.
Fans of the Shadows of Otherside series will see some familiar faces alongside the new, with this story set approximately four years before the events of Elemental. Newcomers can read this book as a standalone entry.
Content warnings: consensual on-page sex, physical violence, on-page death, blood drinking, swearing, slurs (not toward any real racial or ethnic group/identity), alcohol use, threat of sexual violence, implied past sexual violence, and remembrance of past abusive relationship.
Half-elven bounty hunter Lya Desmarais is living in exile in North Carolina after getting into trouble back home. When her boss makes it clear he's got a target on her back, she seeks dangerous allies to regain control of her future.
Vampire vagabond Cade is running from his past and thirsty for more powerful blood than mundanes can offer. Most of Otherside is off-limits, but the human-blooded are fair game. When he and Lya cross paths in a scandalously sexy way at a Raleigh nightclub, Cade finds the perfect target.
But nothing is ever as straightforward as it seems in the supernatural community, not even lust. And for love to win, predator and prey must find a way to meet in the middle—or die trying.
Told from two perspectives, this red-hot, action-packed vampire romance has no cheating, no cliffhangers, and a happy ending.
Fans of the Shadows of Otherside series will see some familiar faces alongside the new, with this story set approximately four years before the events of Elemental. Newcomers can read this book as a standalone entry.
Content warnings: consensual on-page sex, physical violence, on-page death, blood drinking, swearing, slurs (not toward any real racial or ethnic group/identity), alcohol use, threat of sexual violence, implied past sexual violence, and remembrance of past abusive relationship.
216 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 24, 2022
21 people are currently reading
215 people want to read
About the author
Whitney Hill
18 books117 followersWhitney Hill (whitneyhillwrites.com) is the author of the Shadows of Otherside contemporary fantasy series. The bestselling first book in the series, Elemental, was the grand prize winner of the 8th Annual Writer's Digest Self-Published E-Book Awards.
Whitney is also the founder of Benu Media (benumedia.com), an indie publishing imprint and creative consulting business. She leverages over a decade of marketing experience to offer resources that help indie authors rise and shine.
When she’s not writing or consulting, Whitney enjoys hiking in North Carolina’s beautiful state parks and playing video games.
Join Whitney on Twitter and Instagram: @write_wherever.
Whitney is also the founder of Benu Media (benumedia.com), an indie publishing imprint and creative consulting business. She leverages over a decade of marketing experience to offer resources that help indie authors rise and shine.
When she’s not writing or consulting, Whitney enjoys hiking in North Carolina’s beautiful state parks and playing video games.
Join Whitney on Twitter and Instagram: @write_wherever.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
February 3, 2022
Having read Elemental Shadows of the Otherside but not the rest of the books in the series I was a little familiar with the world going in. But it's really not necessary in order to read Secrets and Truths the characters that cross over here are utilized in a way that you don't need too much background on them.
This story focuses on Lya who is a half elf bounty hunter living in North Carolina. She meets Cade who is a hundreds of years old vagabond vampire. There's instant chemistry right away between these two misfits and they take you on a fun fast-paced journey.
This story focuses on Lya who is a half elf bounty hunter living in North Carolina. She meets Cade who is a hundreds of years old vagabond vampire. There's instant chemistry right away between these two misfits and they take you on a fun fast-paced journey.
December 8, 2022
Ok I might have enjoyed this even more that the Shadows of Otherside series by same author, if that's even possible ❤️😍
I love how the romance is more on focus with this first book. The steamy scenes were incredible and Cade has officially risen to become one of my new book boyfriends. I love how this sexy, powerful and ancient vampire starts to fall for Lya, a halfbreed elf. Vampire romance always hits different 🔥the chemistry between the two was on point, and I loved Cades backstory and the entire vampire lore! This series is full with all types of supernatural creatures: like vampires, werewolves and elves. Their paranormal society is incredible and the world building just like Whitney's other series is super well done.
I love how the story takes place in the same world as her other series, so we get to see their characters again, like Maria who was one of my favorites.
I love how the romance is more on focus with this first book. The steamy scenes were incredible and Cade has officially risen to become one of my new book boyfriends. I love how this sexy, powerful and ancient vampire starts to fall for Lya, a halfbreed elf. Vampire romance always hits different 🔥the chemistry between the two was on point, and I loved Cades backstory and the entire vampire lore! This series is full with all types of supernatural creatures: like vampires, werewolves and elves. Their paranormal society is incredible and the world building just like Whitney's other series is super well done.
I love how the story takes place in the same world as her other series, so we get to see their characters again, like Maria who was one of my favorites.
March 22, 2022
Originally I thought this book was paranormal and urban fantasy. So my question 10 chapters in became where the hell was the plot. Once I figured out it was paranormal romance I gave up on the plot and decided to just experience the vibes. And I am quite glad I did.
Lya is uninspiring, self depreciating, and a halfling. She's half human and half elf. Did I mention she was a halfbreed? Cause apparently that is her only defining characteristic we learn the entire book. She has no growth no development and by the end in theory she's trying to stop pitying herself. I don't know. I found her character more annoying than anything else. She spent more time whining about her lot than expressing the badass bounty hunter who can overcome everything we are supposed to believe she is. There is a way to express vulnerability and get us to feel for Lya without her entire inner monologue being only about how fucked she is because she's a halfling.
I think the author would benefit from reading Patricia Brigg's Alpha and Omega series. The female MC has a great transition from beaten to powerful and Lya could've benefitted from more progress as a character.
Cade is better. It took about 10 chapters for me to care about him, but once I did it was fine. He is a slightly more dynamic character than the static Lya, but he's pretty one dimensional himself. Thankfully he's a heart throb so that saved him. The author did well introducing and giving us bits of his past. It helped to make his actions seem all the more impactful in how he handles Lya and sticks to her hard boundaries. More Cade and I can forgive Lya.
I say all that, but overall I did enjoy the book. Come for vibes. Stay for vibes. Cause you aren't going to get any character development and the plot is loosely there. But the vibes! Phenomenal. The sexy scenes are decent too, given this is romance. Had we beefed those up and added a few more this would've been a wildly enjoyable smut novel.
IG: kyetaku_
Lya is uninspiring, self depreciating, and a halfling. She's half human and half elf. Did I mention she was a halfbreed? Cause apparently that is her only defining characteristic we learn the entire book. She has no growth no development and by the end in theory she's trying to stop pitying herself. I don't know. I found her character more annoying than anything else. She spent more time whining about her lot than expressing the badass bounty hunter who can overcome everything we are supposed to believe she is. There is a way to express vulnerability and get us to feel for Lya without her entire inner monologue being only about how fucked she is because she's a halfling.
I think the author would benefit from reading Patricia Brigg's Alpha and Omega series. The female MC has a great transition from beaten to powerful and Lya could've benefitted from more progress as a character.
Cade is better. It took about 10 chapters for me to care about him, but once I did it was fine. He is a slightly more dynamic character than the static Lya, but he's pretty one dimensional himself. Thankfully he's a heart throb so that saved him. The author did well introducing and giving us bits of his past. It helped to make his actions seem all the more impactful in how he handles Lya and sticks to her hard boundaries. More Cade and I can forgive Lya.
I say all that, but overall I did enjoy the book. Come for vibes. Stay for vibes. Cause you aren't going to get any character development and the plot is loosely there. But the vibes! Phenomenal. The sexy scenes are decent too, given this is romance. Had we beefed those up and added a few more this would've been a wildly enjoyable smut novel.
IG: kyetaku_
October 18, 2025
2.5 — needed more development of the romance, I can’t see how they know / like / understand each other as people. Prose were good! Liked Lya’s character.
October 17, 2021
I was fortunate enough to read an ARC of this book. It's so good, my people. As always, Whitney tackles the hard subjects through a fantasy lens: race, equality, consent, debt (physical and emotional), acceptance (of oneself and by others). The characters are, as usual, complex and nuanced and make you care about them immediately. Add into that hot sex and a driving plot that keeps you turning pages and what's not to love? I adore everything about Cade. He's tough and badass but also vulnerable and has more humanity than most humans I know. Lya, unsurprisingly, kicks ass and takes names. She's not too proud to admit when she's wrong and has the backbone to ask herself the hard questions. I love them both and cannot wait to see where their adventures take them next!
August 2, 2022
Mixed Girl Problems
In my head, and maybe it’s cause I’m a mixed girl, this was a way to vent what it feels like to be the mixed kid. But it was done well. The writing was a little touch and go for me but I enjoyed the story. Cade was a sweetie. I haven’t read a vampire romance in sometime and this very much renewed that love. I’m gonna keep it a buck, if this was on KU I’d dive all the way into this series but it’s not so I’ll come back to it.
In my head, and maybe it’s cause I’m a mixed girl, this was a way to vent what it feels like to be the mixed kid. But it was done well. The writing was a little touch and go for me but I enjoyed the story. Cade was a sweetie. I haven’t read a vampire romance in sometime and this very much renewed that love. I’m gonna keep it a buck, if this was on KU I’d dive all the way into this series but it’s not so I’ll come back to it.
November 6, 2021
Absolutely astounded by yet another work by Whitney. This book falls under one of my all time favorite genre, "paranormal fantasy". As a gigantic lover of vampires, I have to say, this work blew me away and is on a top spot for one of my favorite vampire books for sure. The tropes found in this genre were done so well, but I wanted to highlight something really important in this book.
One of the main themes is consent, and something that sincerely needs to be emphasized in this genre. I know it's a fantasy to be ambiguous with it, but I think works that are very clear with their consent are super important. Cade always asked Lya whether she was okay with what he did. He never took what he wasn't given permission to take, which is just such a positive message.
Before I get into spoiler territory, I did want to highlight my enjoyment of the vampire lore in this book. As a huge vampire fan, I have to say taking the virus approach and explaining it in biological means really made me a big fan of the lore. I liked how the sun was dangerous because of cell damage, not some 'holy magic' shenanigan. The virus, like viruses in real life, has an objective, and interestingly enough, maintains a symbiotic relationship with the vampire upon the vampire turning undead. I like the little 'slower heartbeat' detail as well, and the 'clockwork motions' made by vampires who are unfed.
Anyway, time to get into the spoilers because I'm a fan of talking about specifics.
*****
SPOILERS START
*****
Lya and Cade's relationship is really interesting and intense, especially at the halfway point. I can honestly say I was super surprised she just went for the aggressive approach, trying to drag Cade in for a bounty. I wasn't really on her side at this point, either, because she was at fault here. She felt SUPER guilty, as she should...Cade did nothing wrong. He was also fully in the right to kill her, especially when she was bound after attacking him, but he didn't. He showed amazing restraint for typical vampire lore which was super enjoyable. Those moments had me practically holding my breath. How was Cade going to react to her outright trying to kill or bring him in alive to his abuser? Apparently by offering himself to her so she would get a ticket free. What a gentleman, so selfless, and I was super happy when Lya declined. Phew.
Lya's killing of Morris was also really epic. That entire fight scene just had my jaw clenched. What was going to happen?! Would she manage to kill the master vampire? Well, she did, and she dislodged the head before it could heal. Phew. However, Cade ended up stabbed, and it was up to Lya to save him. Which she managed to do, amazingly enough! He practiced extreme restraint even when in bloodlust. Though he did almost kill her in the end, she pulled through with his help and her power.
I was surprised, but not disappointed, that she wasn't turned into a vampire(I actually favor non-turning outcomes more.) I wonder what the future holds for these two and would very much like to see more of them. I've read 3/4 of the "Shadows of the Otherside" series (I plan on reading the final book soon. This book, however, was too great to resist given I adore vampires) and it does show just how ruthless Callista is, and how dangerous Maria can be.
I know based on the timeline that this is prior to certain happenings in the first Urban Fantasy this book branches off of, so I find myself wondering if, as timelines go on with these spinoffs, the main characters will intersect. I will admit... I kind of hope for that.
Now, for some of my favorite quotes. Given this is an "Advanced Reader Copy" review, I can't share my highlights, but I can mention them here:
"What are the odds Cade will be there two nights in a row? ... Cade was there two nights in a row."
I love the humor in this and don't need to explain much on that one, it made me giggle.
"I almost wish I was straight enough to want to find out." - Maria. This is another one that made me giggle. I love Maria so much, she's awesome. I hope to see more of her.
"Nothing was meant to live forever, no matter how much it tried." This was related to the vampire virus, but feel it's a serious quote that extends even beyond the realm of fantasy.
"They were beneath me. All of this was beneath me." Lya generally just being super awesome as a protagonist.
*****
END SPOILERS
*****
There were other quotes too, but I think I've shared enough. Tiny details like Lya enjoying Ghirardelli chocolate(my favorite) were also fun. Along with real life references in general. All in all, this was a fantastic book I really could relate to and get lost in. Lya was an amazing protagonist, a strong woman who was okay with letting herself lean on Cade when she needed to, but also relying on herself if needed as well. A gorgeous person inside and out--and as a half-elf? I did wonder if she had a certain teeth thing that I won't go into detail here given spoilers...
Cade, very respectful, very hot, a vampire fantasy gentleman that fits the bill and then some. He is a proper dominant, where Lya is the one making the rules, and he obeys them. As things should be.
I would like to close this out by reiterating the importance of this novel beyond just an enjoyable paranormal vampire fantasy. The lesson that stuck out to me the most, that I really want society in general to see more, is the proper display of the BDSM relationship. Cade only did things with Lya's permission; Lya is the one setting the boundaries. This is the proper way of doing things, all about consent, and it was enjoyable. Safe sex was also practiced in this book, given the use of the condom before intimacy, a detail that I feel was also very important.
All in all, this was another book by Whitney that blew me away, and I am confident in saying as a huge vampire-fantasy related reader that those who love vampires & romance would be blown away with this one in the best of ways. It's a book to sink your teeth into and not ever let go, if not to devour in one bite.
One of the main themes is consent, and something that sincerely needs to be emphasized in this genre. I know it's a fantasy to be ambiguous with it, but I think works that are very clear with their consent are super important. Cade always asked Lya whether she was okay with what he did. He never took what he wasn't given permission to take, which is just such a positive message.
Before I get into spoiler territory, I did want to highlight my enjoyment of the vampire lore in this book. As a huge vampire fan, I have to say taking the virus approach and explaining it in biological means really made me a big fan of the lore. I liked how the sun was dangerous because of cell damage, not some 'holy magic' shenanigan. The virus, like viruses in real life, has an objective, and interestingly enough, maintains a symbiotic relationship with the vampire upon the vampire turning undead. I like the little 'slower heartbeat' detail as well, and the 'clockwork motions' made by vampires who are unfed.
Anyway, time to get into the spoilers because I'm a fan of talking about specifics.
*****
SPOILERS START
*****
Lya and Cade's relationship is really interesting and intense, especially at the halfway point. I can honestly say I was super surprised she just went for the aggressive approach, trying to drag Cade in for a bounty. I wasn't really on her side at this point, either, because she was at fault here. She felt SUPER guilty, as she should...Cade did nothing wrong. He was also fully in the right to kill her, especially when she was bound after attacking him, but he didn't. He showed amazing restraint for typical vampire lore which was super enjoyable. Those moments had me practically holding my breath. How was Cade going to react to her outright trying to kill or bring him in alive to his abuser? Apparently by offering himself to her so she would get a ticket free. What a gentleman, so selfless, and I was super happy when Lya declined. Phew.
Lya's killing of Morris was also really epic. That entire fight scene just had my jaw clenched. What was going to happen?! Would she manage to kill the master vampire? Well, she did, and she dislodged the head before it could heal. Phew. However, Cade ended up stabbed, and it was up to Lya to save him. Which she managed to do, amazingly enough! He practiced extreme restraint even when in bloodlust. Though he did almost kill her in the end, she pulled through with his help and her power.
I was surprised, but not disappointed, that she wasn't turned into a vampire(I actually favor non-turning outcomes more.) I wonder what the future holds for these two and would very much like to see more of them. I've read 3/4 of the "Shadows of the Otherside" series (I plan on reading the final book soon. This book, however, was too great to resist given I adore vampires) and it does show just how ruthless Callista is, and how dangerous Maria can be.
I know based on the timeline that this is prior to certain happenings in the first Urban Fantasy this book branches off of, so I find myself wondering if, as timelines go on with these spinoffs, the main characters will intersect. I will admit... I kind of hope for that.
Now, for some of my favorite quotes. Given this is an "Advanced Reader Copy" review, I can't share my highlights, but I can mention them here:
"What are the odds Cade will be there two nights in a row? ... Cade was there two nights in a row."
I love the humor in this and don't need to explain much on that one, it made me giggle.
"I almost wish I was straight enough to want to find out." - Maria. This is another one that made me giggle. I love Maria so much, she's awesome. I hope to see more of her.
"Nothing was meant to live forever, no matter how much it tried." This was related to the vampire virus, but feel it's a serious quote that extends even beyond the realm of fantasy.
"They were beneath me. All of this was beneath me." Lya generally just being super awesome as a protagonist.
*****
END SPOILERS
*****
There were other quotes too, but I think I've shared enough. Tiny details like Lya enjoying Ghirardelli chocolate(my favorite) were also fun. Along with real life references in general. All in all, this was a fantastic book I really could relate to and get lost in. Lya was an amazing protagonist, a strong woman who was okay with letting herself lean on Cade when she needed to, but also relying on herself if needed as well. A gorgeous person inside and out--and as a half-elf? I did wonder if she had a certain teeth thing that I won't go into detail here given spoilers...
Cade, very respectful, very hot, a vampire fantasy gentleman that fits the bill and then some. He is a proper dominant, where Lya is the one making the rules, and he obeys them. As things should be.
I would like to close this out by reiterating the importance of this novel beyond just an enjoyable paranormal vampire fantasy. The lesson that stuck out to me the most, that I really want society in general to see more, is the proper display of the BDSM relationship. Cade only did things with Lya's permission; Lya is the one setting the boundaries. This is the proper way of doing things, all about consent, and it was enjoyable. Safe sex was also practiced in this book, given the use of the condom before intimacy, a detail that I feel was also very important.
All in all, this was another book by Whitney that blew me away, and I am confident in saying as a huge vampire-fantasy related reader that those who love vampires & romance would be blown away with this one in the best of ways. It's a book to sink your teeth into and not ever let go, if not to devour in one bite.
November 12, 2021
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. This review contains very mild spoilers.
Holy. Smokes. Smoking. Hot.
I started this book expecting to spend a little time over the next two weeks reading it. I finished it in a day and a half.
The main characters, Lya (a half-elf bounty hunter) and Cade (a nomadic vampire who has stayed in one place longer than usual) are engaging, realistic (I mean as far as it goes for a half-elf and a vampire), and equally badass without being Mary-Sue perfect.
The dynamics of a North Carolina with vampires, werewolves, and elves was explored in Whitney Hill’s Shadows of Otherside series, but this time it’s in the form of a steamy paranormal romance.
And…just WOW.
Things I loved:
Cade’s & Lya’s consensual relationship—from consensual sex to consensual blood-sharing, if you think alpha male and consensual can’t co-exist, read this book and prove yourself wrong. Wayyyyy better than any “me-man you-woman” dynamic.
Lya’s complex role in her world. This was where everything felt super realistic because of the microaggressions she experiences, as well as the outright abuse. But it’s done so well and so subtly that it in no way feels contrived for the story—it’s seamless.
The tension—as this romance develops, there are so many obstacles thrown their way. It makes it a page turner without that frustrating trope of constant misunderstandings and anger-filled actions against someone you supposedly love.
The sex scenes are *chef’s kiss.* They go further when they need to and are less intense when they need to be, and they flow perfectly—and I don’t use the word perfectly often—in this story.
What I wanted more of: Nothing, unless you count wanting another book just so I can see what happens next to our heroine and her lover. I have never ended a book feeling so satisfied by where the story went and how it evolved. This is my kind of paranormal romance and I’ll be back for more.
I *highly* recommend this book.
Holy. Smokes. Smoking. Hot.
I started this book expecting to spend a little time over the next two weeks reading it. I finished it in a day and a half.
The main characters, Lya (a half-elf bounty hunter) and Cade (a nomadic vampire who has stayed in one place longer than usual) are engaging, realistic (I mean as far as it goes for a half-elf and a vampire), and equally badass without being Mary-Sue perfect.
The dynamics of a North Carolina with vampires, werewolves, and elves was explored in Whitney Hill’s Shadows of Otherside series, but this time it’s in the form of a steamy paranormal romance.
And…just WOW.
Things I loved:
Cade’s & Lya’s consensual relationship—from consensual sex to consensual blood-sharing, if you think alpha male and consensual can’t co-exist, read this book and prove yourself wrong. Wayyyyy better than any “me-man you-woman” dynamic.
Lya’s complex role in her world. This was where everything felt super realistic because of the microaggressions she experiences, as well as the outright abuse. But it’s done so well and so subtly that it in no way feels contrived for the story—it’s seamless.
The tension—as this romance develops, there are so many obstacles thrown their way. It makes it a page turner without that frustrating trope of constant misunderstandings and anger-filled actions against someone you supposedly love.
The sex scenes are *chef’s kiss.* They go further when they need to and are less intense when they need to be, and they flow perfectly—and I don’t use the word perfectly often—in this story.
What I wanted more of: Nothing, unless you count wanting another book just so I can see what happens next to our heroine and her lover. I have never ended a book feeling so satisfied by where the story went and how it evolved. This is my kind of paranormal romance and I’ll be back for more.
I *highly* recommend this book.
February 23, 2022
4/5
🌱THE EXCELLENT
~ Skin colour descriptions on point!
~ Urban fantasy world with fae, vampires, weres and mixed beings
~ Slightly different world which lends to plausibility
~ Steamy scenes with sexy vamp
~ HFN romance
Lya is half fae, half human and a delicious tease to a vagabond vamp - Cade - with no allegiances and too much money. Her life is uncertain because her French fae family kicked her out and her North Carolina cousins are assholes. Everyone seems to be waiting for her to forget her second-level status (being half-human) one more time to set a bounty on her head, but she has plans.
With a powerful vampire with few loyalties on her side and her efficiency at hunting bounties, she may have a chance at another life, if she plays her cards right. But old things are coming to Raleigh and they need to be killed. Who can Lya depend on when the little security she has crumbles?
✨Give it a read.
🌱THE MEH
~ I was waiting for things to become more intricate
~ I expected more fighting 😔
~ 🌝 ahhh, maybe want, love and desire yourself?
~ 🙄 Bounty killer making stupid af delay decisions, they work out though
♡🌱 But that’s just me ;)
—
🎁 Thank you @netgalley for the gift.
🌱THE EXCELLENT
~ Skin colour descriptions on point!
~ Urban fantasy world with fae, vampires, weres and mixed beings
~ Slightly different world which lends to plausibility
~ Steamy scenes with sexy vamp
~ HFN romance
Lya is half fae, half human and a delicious tease to a vagabond vamp - Cade - with no allegiances and too much money. Her life is uncertain because her French fae family kicked her out and her North Carolina cousins are assholes. Everyone seems to be waiting for her to forget her second-level status (being half-human) one more time to set a bounty on her head, but she has plans.
With a powerful vampire with few loyalties on her side and her efficiency at hunting bounties, she may have a chance at another life, if she plays her cards right. But old things are coming to Raleigh and they need to be killed. Who can Lya depend on when the little security she has crumbles?
✨Give it a read.
🌱THE MEH
~ I was waiting for things to become more intricate
~ I expected more fighting 😔
~ 🌝 ahhh, maybe want, love and desire yourself?
~ 🙄 Bounty killer making stupid af delay decisions, they work out though
♡🌱 But that’s just me ;)
—
🎁 Thank you @netgalley for the gift.
February 27, 2025
Love a good spicy, action-packed urban fantasy romance. Half-elven bounty hunter Lya, who acts as a bounty hunter, and vampire vagabond Cade have a chance meeting that leads to what they suspect will be a one-night stand. But they find themselves falling back into one another while the world conspires against them.
I enjoyed the world-building in this book. This is a fun story set in North Carolina with the supernatural world hidden from the mundane. The character work is equally impressive. Lya and Cade form a bond quickly, and while their connection develops at a brisk pace, there’s enough growth and nuance to keep it satisfying. Their dynamic has tension, genuine chemistry, and vulnerable moments that hint at deeper layers yet to be explored. I'm excited to see where this goes!
Overall, this is a fun, quick read that balances sizzling romance, engaging characters, and interesting world-building.
I enjoyed the world-building in this book. This is a fun story set in North Carolina with the supernatural world hidden from the mundane. The character work is equally impressive. Lya and Cade form a bond quickly, and while their connection develops at a brisk pace, there’s enough growth and nuance to keep it satisfying. Their dynamic has tension, genuine chemistry, and vulnerable moments that hint at deeper layers yet to be explored. I'm excited to see where this goes!
Overall, this is a fun, quick read that balances sizzling romance, engaging characters, and interesting world-building.
January 25, 2022
Whitney Hill is a champion for the down trodden. A theme I have noticed in every book. Her characters are harmed or abused and become more. Breaking the chains that cripple their spirits and reaching for a new and better existence. I love it. It is uplifting. It's power for anyone who has known pain and suffering.
This is urban Fantasy, sexy romance and lively characters full of intrigue.
It's awesome that it takes place in the same North Carolina town as the Shadows of Otherside series. There's secrets in that place yet to be told. A town filled with shifters, Vampires, Elves and creatures unknown.
Whitney Hill is a great author. Her characters are a powerhouse of diversity.
Her stories are always exciting and hard to put down.
I would like to thank NetGalley and SFWA for this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is urban Fantasy, sexy romance and lively characters full of intrigue.
It's awesome that it takes place in the same North Carolina town as the Shadows of Otherside series. There's secrets in that place yet to be told. A town filled with shifters, Vampires, Elves and creatures unknown.
Whitney Hill is a great author. Her characters are a powerhouse of diversity.
Her stories are always exciting and hard to put down.
I would like to thank NetGalley and SFWA for this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 11, 2023
This one made me want to revisit Raleigh. I enjoyed the dual perspectives of getting to know our characters. The romance build up felt realistic and the cultural dramas kept my attention throughout. The bias against half elves, echoing anti-Black racism, is a prominent feature throughout the book. Although there was little elven magic or bounty hunting action, the last quarter ended strong.
I will continue with other books in this world.
I will continue with other books in this world.
dnf
May 15, 2023men should not have povs in romance imo😭😭😭
dnfed at like chapter two
dnfed at like chapter two
December 18, 2021
Lya is a half-elf bounty hunter in exile, trying to find a way out. Cade is a vagabond vampire with a difficult past. When they come together, sparks fly - but what happens when their pasts catch up with them and they have to make hard choices?
This is the first book I've read by Whitney Hill, and now I definitely want to go read the entire back catalogue! I'm a big fan of Urban Fantasy, especially when it explores the relationships between different groups of supernatural beings, and uses that to discuss social justice issues. If that book comes with a dangerous romance, even better. I loved that this book doesn't sacrifice plot for the romance - even if there hadn't been a romance element the characters and their choices are absolutely believable.
I would like to thank the publisher for providing an ARC of this book, in exchange for honest feedback.
This is the first book I've read by Whitney Hill, and now I definitely want to go read the entire back catalogue! I'm a big fan of Urban Fantasy, especially when it explores the relationships between different groups of supernatural beings, and uses that to discuss social justice issues. If that book comes with a dangerous romance, even better. I loved that this book doesn't sacrifice plot for the romance - even if there hadn't been a romance element the characters and their choices are absolutely believable.
I would like to thank the publisher for providing an ARC of this book, in exchange for honest feedback.
December 2, 2022
Netgalley ARC
Vampire and elven romance novel set in a world where 'others' exist. This dealt with race, consent and trust within a fantasy setting. The main characters are flawed and adorable, you care about what's happening to them. The bit characters aren't delved into too much as it's not centred around them. Nice, easy read with a perfect balance of drama and smut to keep the pace going.
Merged review:
Vampire and elven romance novel set in a world where 'others' exist. This dealt with race, consent and trust within a fantasy setting. The main characters are flawed and adorable, you care about what's happening to them. The bit characters aren't delved into too much as it's not centred around them. Nice, easy read with a perfect balance of drama and smut to keep the pace going.
Vampire and elven romance novel set in a world where 'others' exist. This dealt with race, consent and trust within a fantasy setting. The main characters are flawed and adorable, you care about what's happening to them. The bit characters aren't delved into too much as it's not centred around them. Nice, easy read with a perfect balance of drama and smut to keep the pace going.
Merged review:
Vampire and elven romance novel set in a world where 'others' exist. This dealt with race, consent and trust within a fantasy setting. The main characters are flawed and adorable, you care about what's happening to them. The bit characters aren't delved into too much as it's not centred around them. Nice, easy read with a perfect balance of drama and smut to keep the pace going.
March 7, 2023
Lya and Cade are everything I hoped for. They are strong, protective, loving and vulnerable with each other. The switch between first and second person was so fun to read. I can’t wait for the next book!
March 8, 2022
I am so excited about this series. From the jump I love Lya and can't wait to see more of her. I love Shadows of Otherside, but this new spin off is giving me all the paranormal romance and I am here for it!
February 8, 2022
Hello Gemmies! I have an entertaining new spoiler free book review to share with you today. Please note: I received a digital ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest and fair review.
Everybody, get ready for your next compulsory bingeable read! Secrets & Truths by Whitney Hill is the first book in the Otherside Heat Series. This is a spin off of the wildly popular Shadows of Otherside series. Secrets & Truths can be read as a stand alone but you'll appreciate the cameos and political drama more if you read the Shadows of Otherside series first. Whitney Hill has quickly become one of my favorite paranormal romance/urban fantasy authors. She gives me all of the romance, suspense, danger, pulse pounding excitement, and hot characters that I need!
Secrets & Truths takes place about four years before the events in Elemental. It is full of angst, political intrigue, action, and spicy goodness. Secrets & Truths is also an excellent character driven story. It was really nice meeting new characters set in the Urban Fantasy world that I already love. Cade is a pure sexy alpha male vagabond vampire with a cinnamon role heart. Lya is a strong sexy alpha female half fae bounty hunter who isn't afraid to go for what she wants. Both of these characters are running from thier past, and even though a relationship between the two is forbidden, the chemistry between them is off the charts.
The instant attraction between Cade and Lya is palpable and believable. This is a romance so an HEA is guaranteed, but, in true Whitney Hill fashion, you will sweat and have heart palpitations getting there. As a reminder this is an adult paranormal romance so there are tastefully executed graphic sex scenes. Secrets & Truths has so much heart and soul, you will find yourself rooting for Cade and Lya every step of the way. The other thing I love about Whitney Hill's writing is her inclusion of diverse characters, and her ability to tackle tough topics like racism, sexism, equality, and current events in an attainable and entertaining way. It's easy to imagine myself as one of these characters and that's not something readily found or well done, in the paranormal romance genre, so I really appreciate it.
There were quite a few cameos from characters from the Shadows of Otherside Series. And it was nice to spend time with old friends (and enemies) again. Like the previous stories in the original series, Secrets & Truths takes place in the Research Triangle Park area of North Carolina. This is near and dear to my heart as I live here. You don't have to live in North Carolina to appreciate this world and find your self fully immersed in it. It's contemporary, fresh, and familiar. If you love paranaormal creatures especially fae and vampires, Secrets & Truths has you covered! Trigger warnings for consensual on-page sex, physical violence, on-page death, blood drinking, swearing, slurs not toward any real racial or ethnic group/identity), alcohol use, threat of sexual violence, implied past sexual violence, and remembrance of past abusive relationship.
If you are a fan of forbidden love, retribution, angst, action, paranormal hierarchical politics, enemies to lovers, steamy situations, and kick ass heroines then read this book! Published by Benu Media, Secrets & Truths releases on February 24, 2021, and is available for pre-order from all major booksellers. I give Secrets & Truths 5 out of 5 gems. I'm looking forward to reading more adventures set in this universe. Happy Reading!
Everybody, get ready for your next compulsory bingeable read! Secrets & Truths by Whitney Hill is the first book in the Otherside Heat Series. This is a spin off of the wildly popular Shadows of Otherside series. Secrets & Truths can be read as a stand alone but you'll appreciate the cameos and political drama more if you read the Shadows of Otherside series first. Whitney Hill has quickly become one of my favorite paranormal romance/urban fantasy authors. She gives me all of the romance, suspense, danger, pulse pounding excitement, and hot characters that I need!
Secrets & Truths takes place about four years before the events in Elemental. It is full of angst, political intrigue, action, and spicy goodness. Secrets & Truths is also an excellent character driven story. It was really nice meeting new characters set in the Urban Fantasy world that I already love. Cade is a pure sexy alpha male vagabond vampire with a cinnamon role heart. Lya is a strong sexy alpha female half fae bounty hunter who isn't afraid to go for what she wants. Both of these characters are running from thier past, and even though a relationship between the two is forbidden, the chemistry between them is off the charts.
The instant attraction between Cade and Lya is palpable and believable. This is a romance so an HEA is guaranteed, but, in true Whitney Hill fashion, you will sweat and have heart palpitations getting there. As a reminder this is an adult paranormal romance so there are tastefully executed graphic sex scenes. Secrets & Truths has so much heart and soul, you will find yourself rooting for Cade and Lya every step of the way. The other thing I love about Whitney Hill's writing is her inclusion of diverse characters, and her ability to tackle tough topics like racism, sexism, equality, and current events in an attainable and entertaining way. It's easy to imagine myself as one of these characters and that's not something readily found or well done, in the paranormal romance genre, so I really appreciate it.
There were quite a few cameos from characters from the Shadows of Otherside Series. And it was nice to spend time with old friends (and enemies) again. Like the previous stories in the original series, Secrets & Truths takes place in the Research Triangle Park area of North Carolina. This is near and dear to my heart as I live here. You don't have to live in North Carolina to appreciate this world and find your self fully immersed in it. It's contemporary, fresh, and familiar. If you love paranaormal creatures especially fae and vampires, Secrets & Truths has you covered! Trigger warnings for consensual on-page sex, physical violence, on-page death, blood drinking, swearing, slurs not toward any real racial or ethnic group/identity), alcohol use, threat of sexual violence, implied past sexual violence, and remembrance of past abusive relationship.
If you are a fan of forbidden love, retribution, angst, action, paranormal hierarchical politics, enemies to lovers, steamy situations, and kick ass heroines then read this book! Published by Benu Media, Secrets & Truths releases on February 24, 2021, and is available for pre-order from all major booksellers. I give Secrets & Truths 5 out of 5 gems. I'm looking forward to reading more adventures set in this universe. Happy Reading!
December 22, 2021
Secrets and Truths, book one of the Otherside Heat Series, is my first encounter with author Whitney Hill. Where have I been?? She employs amazing worldbuilding skills to flesh out her version of reality. Where vampires, elves, werewolves, humans (I love that they are referred to as mundanes) and other beings coexist. This story is a spin off to her other series The Shadows of Otherside. However, it is not necessary to have read that series in order to enjoy this stellar book. Due to a romance gone bad, half-elven bounty hunter Lydia “Lya” Desmarais has been exiled to North Carolina where she lives a precarious existence. Due to her half-elven blood, she is scorned by full-blooded elves and barely tolerated by other Otherside beings. Her workplace is truly a toxic environment where her full blooden elven boss seems to hate her with unusual heat and venom. In order to relax, she goes to a local nightclub where she meets centuries old vampire, Cade (no last name). She is cautiously drawn to this enigmatic and sexy undead. He finds her equally fascinating, both for her delicious elven blood (he is too honorable to drink without her permission) and her fiery, yet vulnerable personality. Just as they both warily start to let their guards down, a powerful enemy from Cade’s past places the lovers on opposite sides of an issue. The ultimate show down was amazing. The author used wonderfully visual imagery to tell her story. I really enjoyed this glimpse of an alternative world and look forward to reading the upcoming sequel!!
April 3, 2022
Half-elven bounty hunter Lya Desmarais is living in exile in North Carolina after getting into trouble back home. Vampire vagabond Cade is running from his past and thirsty for more powerful blood than mundanes can offer. When Cade and Lya cross paths Cade finds the perfect target.
But nothing is ever as straightforward as it seems in the supernatural community. And for love to win, predator and prey must find a way to meet in the middle—or die trying.
This was a very interesting book. I’m not sure about Faye and the magic world or paranormal romance I’m slowly getting into the world but I am a bit confused. So this book being a standalone was a bit difficult for me to fully grasp the world. But I got to say I did enjoy this book for what it was. As B2Weird would say we are here for the Vibes.
I liked the love story or should I saw insta lust story btw Cade and Lya. I felt that they had chemistry at times. But I was missing a lot more action and badass bounty Hunter jobs and skills. I hope that the next book will focus on Lya Powers and ability and her skills as a bounty hunter as well as the romance with Cade.
Overall I give it a ⭐️⭐️.5, it was a quick easy read with fun vibes.
February 24, 2022
Lya is a half elf who has been banished for silly reasons. Cade is a vampire on his own in a town with a nest. When they meet, both are pulled to the other and begin a romance. Lya is a bounty hunter who has been promised a big payday for her latest hunt. Cade quickly becomes entangled in the hunt.
Opinion
If you follow my reviews, you know I love paranormal. Vampires are a favorite of mine. I'm not too fond of elves but this book had me intrigued. What had me even more interested is that it is set in my home state of North Carolina.
I did have to search more words than I normally do but they were paranormal words specific to the elves and vampire. That just amounted to me knowing more vocabulary within the paranormal world.
The story was interesting and the plot twist was jaw dropping. With this being book one in the series, I am excitedly looking forward to book 2. As I was searching up this book, I saw that Whitney Hill has another paranormal series that I will need to check out.
Many thanks to Net Galley and to Benu Media for providing me with an ARC of this book.
Opinion
If you follow my reviews, you know I love paranormal. Vampires are a favorite of mine. I'm not too fond of elves but this book had me intrigued. What had me even more interested is that it is set in my home state of North Carolina.
I did have to search more words than I normally do but they were paranormal words specific to the elves and vampire. That just amounted to me knowing more vocabulary within the paranormal world.
The story was interesting and the plot twist was jaw dropping. With this being book one in the series, I am excitedly looking forward to book 2. As I was searching up this book, I saw that Whitney Hill has another paranormal series that I will need to check out.
Many thanks to Net Galley and to Benu Media for providing me with an ARC of this book.
February 27, 2022
Oooooh I liked this one a lot! Having not been exposed to this author or world before, it was a wonderful surprise!
Lya is a halfbreed who has been exiled into the US. Forced to work for a fae boss that hates her, she's been going about her business as a bounty hunter without incident trying to build up her own career. Cade is a vagabond vampire who happens to be in the right place at the right time for sparks to fly. He and Lya meet and the rest is history. There's some truly wonderful smutty goodness thrown in with some heartfelt surprises along the way.
The story, which is almost unnecessary when there's a nice romance, centers around conflicting priorities and people who are assumed dead resurfacing. This couple really surprised me in some great ways. I am eager for more both from this author and this world. What a great find!
Lya is a halfbreed who has been exiled into the US. Forced to work for a fae boss that hates her, she's been going about her business as a bounty hunter without incident trying to build up her own career. Cade is a vagabond vampire who happens to be in the right place at the right time for sparks to fly. He and Lya meet and the rest is history. There's some truly wonderful smutty goodness thrown in with some heartfelt surprises along the way.
The story, which is almost unnecessary when there's a nice romance, centers around conflicting priorities and people who are assumed dead resurfacing. This couple really surprised me in some great ways. I am eager for more both from this author and this world. What a great find!
April 12, 2022
The half elf bounty hunter Lya is in exile from her Elven family. In North Carolina, she has found an uncomfortable neutral ground in which to operate but is still beholden to her family's rules and restrictions as punishment. Cade is a old vampire wandering in the world. When they two collide, sparks fly even when society is ready to cause trouble for them both.
This was not for me. The story felt like a bit of a snapshot into a larger ongoing story. I wasn't able to grasp the details around the politics and dynamics between the various factions, since it just seemed like there was information hidden. It was also definitely an instant love situation that escalated too fast into soulmate territory for me. I do think the world and the backstory for the main characters have a lot of potential and the future books might delve more into the characters. This is great for folks who are looking for a quick fantasy romance that is all vibes.
This was not for me. The story felt like a bit of a snapshot into a larger ongoing story. I wasn't able to grasp the details around the politics and dynamics between the various factions, since it just seemed like there was information hidden. It was also definitely an instant love situation that escalated too fast into soulmate territory for me. I do think the world and the backstory for the main characters have a lot of potential and the future books might delve more into the characters. This is great for folks who are looking for a quick fantasy romance that is all vibes.
February 13, 2022
I have never read this author before, and I know this book is a spinoff series, but I decided to take a chance on it anyway. Boy, was I glad I did! I was immediately drawn into Lya’s world, and I absolutely loved her. The immediate chemistry with Cade, and them not hiding it from each other was great. Add to that the great writing, the interesting plot, the action, and everything else, this author has a new fan. Even having not read the previous series, I was in no way lost. In fact, I’m debating on how I will read the previous series: before or after finishing this one since this one takes place “first.” Love this book, and I can’t wait to read the next. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
January 5, 2022
Bounty hunters always make fun characters!
I liked Lya a lot, wished her Frenchness showed a little more but she is a really likeable, determined person.
A little lonely at the start of the story and I guess that is also what Cade relates to.
Their relationship is a little insta-lust and it works for them!
Maybe I could have beneficited from reading the main series and it felt a little wordy but a fun read overall!
Netgalley ARC
I liked Lya a lot, wished her Frenchness showed a little more but she is a really likeable, determined person.
A little lonely at the start of the story and I guess that is also what Cade relates to.
Their relationship is a little insta-lust and it works for them!
Maybe I could have beneficited from reading the main series and it felt a little wordy but a fun read overall!
Netgalley ARC
February 13, 2022
Oh, this was good! This was my first time reading Whitney Hill and I must say I am fan! I normally don't read paranormal romance but I decided to step out of my box for this one. The chemistry between Lya the half elf bounty hunter and Cade the vampire vagabond was spicy! Lya makes me want to be a bounty hunter in real life hunting down sexy vampires. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my review.
Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my review.
June 13, 2022
this was a very good paranormal romance! Really enjoyed the banter between Cade and Lya and how their relationship progressed. It was a little over-dramatic at times, and I didn’t much care for the political issues between the elves as someone who hadn’t read the original series and was only here for the romance and smut. Can’t wait for the sequel! I hope it doesn’t take a fully serious plot-driven turn because ngl I’m literally just here for Cade and Lya
January 19, 2022
3.5-4 Stars... I enjoyed this start to the series and look forward to the next one. I really enjoyed the interaction between Lya and Cade. These two are explosive together. And Cade is both tough and vulnerable and I'm here for more heroes like this. And Lya, she has it rough in this world. So many micro-aggressions against her. I really want to know what is next for these two.
March 3, 2022
This was my first whitney hill book and it was such a fun and fast paced read! The magic system was intriguing and I can't wait for the other books so we can see more of the different magical courts. Also loved Lya's and Cade's dynamic (
March 20, 2023
actual rating: 4/5
i really enjoyed this! i enjoyed the world even though i thought it could be fleshed out more but this is just one of multiple books in this world. i loved the characters and their relationship. the end was amazing. it was slightly too instalovey for me but besides that, this was super enjoyable
i really enjoyed this! i enjoyed the world even though i thought it could be fleshed out more but this is just one of multiple books in this world. i loved the characters and their relationship. the end was amazing. it was slightly too instalovey for me but besides that, this was super enjoyable
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