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Behind Closed Doors #2
We Keep Secrets
Things were supposed to get better once no one was actively trying to kill me. Not a lot worse.
With my murderous stalker dead and buried, I really should be able to enjoy getting to know my two men more intimately and focusing on how I’m going to move forward with my life.
Not worrying that one of them is a murderer and that the other is way too okay with that.
No matter how much they try to convince me that nothing is wrong and that I should be looking to move on instead of concentrating on what’s behind me, I can’t shake the feeling that the problem was never my stalker.
It was always Ashwick.
And I’m not the only one who thinks so, either. While I’m trying to stay out of jail and keep myself level headed, another group has come to Ashwick who claim to be friends of Maggie. They’re here with wild accusations and assumptions, saying things that are too crazy to be real.
But I’ve been wondering the same things, I’m just too afraid to say them out loud. No matter how much I want to look the other way, I don’t think that’s an option.
This time, the choice I make will have deadly consequences to at least one person. I just have to pick which one.
AUTHORS NOTE
WE KEEP SECRETS is a MMF dark romance. It features MM and MFM scenes, along with graphic violence and cult themes. It is the second book of the Behind Closed Doors Duet.
With my murderous stalker dead and buried, I really should be able to enjoy getting to know my two men more intimately and focusing on how I’m going to move forward with my life.
Not worrying that one of them is a murderer and that the other is way too okay with that.
No matter how much they try to convince me that nothing is wrong and that I should be looking to move on instead of concentrating on what’s behind me, I can’t shake the feeling that the problem was never my stalker.
It was always Ashwick.
And I’m not the only one who thinks so, either. While I’m trying to stay out of jail and keep myself level headed, another group has come to Ashwick who claim to be friends of Maggie. They’re here with wild accusations and assumptions, saying things that are too crazy to be real.
But I’ve been wondering the same things, I’m just too afraid to say them out loud. No matter how much I want to look the other way, I don’t think that’s an option.
This time, the choice I make will have deadly consequences to at least one person. I just have to pick which one.
AUTHORS NOTE
WE KEEP SECRETS is a MMF dark romance. It features MM and MFM scenes, along with graphic violence and cult themes. It is the second book of the Behind Closed Doors Duet.
311 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 15, 2022
147 people are currently reading
450 people want to read
About the author
A.J. Merlin
44 books2,033 followersAJ Merlin would rather write epic love stories than live them. I mean, who wants to limit themselves to only falling in love once? She is obsessed with dark fantasy, true crime, and also dogs. From serial killers to voyeurs all the way down to the devil himself, AJ's specialty is in writing irredeemable heroes who somehow still manage to captivate their heroines (and her readers).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
June 3, 2023
So frustrating - I wanted to throw my phone. Everything that happened and she just kinda shrugged and went with it whhhyyyyyyyyy
April 1, 2022
Its one of those ones where you know what will happen but don't know what will happen, with the old creepy small town and their secrets. For a moment I thought the town would turn against parker, but nope they all loved her. Ev was a desperate puppy and Kayn was okay with everything, keeping them together. Really its all about a choice. Curious about the guys and Sheila, whether they knew they were being watched or not. Some really dubious stuff and plenty of sexy time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 14, 2023
i can excuse serial killers but i draw the line at cult shenanagins apparently
March 29, 2022
We Keep Secrets
Not a bad ending to the Duet Behind Closed Doors. Parker got her answers and slowly came around to the idea of her friends, family, and town. I really liked the storyline, and all of the characters. The beginning started out slow for me, but it really picked up the second half. I enjoyed how close everyone in the small town was to each other.
Not a bad ending to the Duet Behind Closed Doors. Parker got her answers and slowly came around to the idea of her friends, family, and town. I really liked the storyline, and all of the characters. The beginning started out slow for me, but it really picked up the second half. I enjoyed how close everyone in the small town was to each other.
April 3, 2022
We Keep Secrets by AJ Merlin is MMF dark romantic suspense. This is the second book in the Behind Closed Doors duet.
This is the third book of AJ's that I have read and it won't be my last. She did a great job wrapping up the series. The book had a lot of twists and turns that kept me hooked until the very end.
I would recommend this series if you like dark romances, MMF romances, or romantic suspense.
This is the third book of AJ's that I have read and it won't be my last. She did a great job wrapping up the series. The book had a lot of twists and turns that kept me hooked until the very end.
I would recommend this series if you like dark romances, MMF romances, or romantic suspense.
March 29, 2022
4.25 Stars
2.75 Spice
WHAT A FINALE!!!
This is book two of the Behind Closed Doors duet. Book 1 We Tell Lies must be read before We Keep Secrets.
This book took a turn I was not expecting! I was entirely impressed with the conspiracy involved in Ashwick! Ashwick just kept getting creepier and creepier with every encouter. As things started to come to the surface, I became more and more wary about what all happens in that small, hidden Indiana town.
We Keep Secrets begins post the events of We Tell Lies. With Parker trying to heal from the trauma she experienced and the memory that resurfaced. The memory that has caused a little tension between her and Everett. While trying to make sense of the memory and her feelings for both guys, Parker starts uncovering more and more secrets belonging to Ashwick. When she finally unravels the mystery, will she be able to accept it or will she finally leave everything having to do with Ashwick behind?
I am sad that it is over. I am going to miss Parker, Kayn, and Everett. I don’t want to have to say goodbye to them. I am really interested in what their life would have looked like 10 years in the future.
This story really starts to plant the question in your mind, What lengths would you go to protect EVERYTHING you love and cherish?
AJ Merlin created a world of mystery and intrigue that does nothing but make you question WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON IN ASHWICK, INDIANA???? All while giving you goosebumps after every “friendly” encounter.
Tropes:
MMF
Serial Killer
Cult
2.75 Spice
WHAT A FINALE!!!
This is book two of the Behind Closed Doors duet. Book 1 We Tell Lies must be read before We Keep Secrets.
This book took a turn I was not expecting! I was entirely impressed with the conspiracy involved in Ashwick! Ashwick just kept getting creepier and creepier with every encouter. As things started to come to the surface, I became more and more wary about what all happens in that small, hidden Indiana town.
"'Sometimes things are just...weird here. It's that small-town thing.'Everett, Kayn, and Parker were EVERYTHING! I just wish their escapades were a little more…explicit??? Yeah. That’s the way I want to phrase that. (Which is the only reason for a lower spice rating for an MMF book) While the romance plot is a major part of this book, there is so much more to experience while reading this. To me it was probably more of a thriller than a straight up romance.
'No, it's not.'"
We Keep Secrets begins post the events of We Tell Lies. With Parker trying to heal from the trauma she experienced and the memory that resurfaced. The memory that has caused a little tension between her and Everett. While trying to make sense of the memory and her feelings for both guys, Parker starts uncovering more and more secrets belonging to Ashwick. When she finally unravels the mystery, will she be able to accept it or will she finally leave everything having to do with Ashwick behind?
"I should have never come back to this place. Anything would have been better than Ashwick"I have been craving this book since finishing We Tell Lies and I can say that I am almost completely sated. I only wish there was something about Parker recovering more of her memories. But even with that missing, this story is complete. Plus some chapters with Kayn’s and/or Everett’s POVs would have been spectacular!
I am sad that it is over. I am going to miss Parker, Kayn, and Everett. I don’t want to have to say goodbye to them. I am really interested in what their life would have looked like 10 years in the future.
This story really starts to plant the question in your mind, What lengths would you go to protect EVERYTHING you love and cherish?
AJ Merlin created a world of mystery and intrigue that does nothing but make you question WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON IN ASHWICK, INDIANA???? All while giving you goosebumps after every “friendly” encounter.
"It's out secret to share [...] And, as always, our burden to bear."
Tropes:
MMF
Serial Killer
Cult
April 1, 2022
All of my reviews can be found at Glowstars.net
When I read We Tell Lies I said that the book was an epic tease. AJ Merlin continues that theme in the first chapter of We Keep Secrets when Kayn appears in Parker’s bathroom. You think Parker’s about to get some, then Kayn backs off. He moves forward and then retreats again. The tension got so high that I was practically ready to re-write the story just to see the smexy times happen. I was glad that this didn’t continue through the rest of the book because I don’t know how I would’ve coped.
In terms of the story, after the incident with Maggie (I won’t say more because, spoilers), Parker’s mind has dragged up a memory from before her kidnapping by the Ashwick Butcher. That memory has the potential to cause a negative shift in her relationship with Everett and her view of the whole town. The first 60% of the book covers Parker’s desire to uncover the truth and what it may mean for her if she does so. If I’m honest, this part was a little slow. It was necessary to build towards the better part of the story but aside from odd moments, it dragged.
The final part of the story sees Parker discover just what that memory was, and the events surrounding it. She has to come to terms with seeing her friends and family in a whole new light, comparing that with what she knows about Kayn’s proclivities, and all the while protecting everybody she knows and loves from the danger of outsiders.
The book takes us through all of Parker’s emotional torment surrounding her boyfriends and the people around her. To the very end, she finds the truth difficult to accept. At the same time, she never stops embodying the final girl that she was in the first book. I found that I didn’t need her to get on board with the craziness surrounding her, but I wasn’t happy with her accepting and becoming a part of it through the lack of another option. I wanted it to be an active choice on her part.
One thing I felt I missed out on as a result of the single point of view was the thoughts and emotions of Everett and Kayn. They really would have added to the story and the struggles going on in Ashwick, along with their own emotional torment surrounding Parker’s investigations and subsequent indecision.
If you want twisted secrets and dangerous lies, along with some steamy MF, MFM and MMF action, then the Behind Closed Doors series is definitely for you. But, beware, you might not be able to handle Ashwick’s secrets.
When I read We Tell Lies I said that the book was an epic tease. AJ Merlin continues that theme in the first chapter of We Keep Secrets when Kayn appears in Parker’s bathroom. You think Parker’s about to get some, then Kayn backs off. He moves forward and then retreats again. The tension got so high that I was practically ready to re-write the story just to see the smexy times happen. I was glad that this didn’t continue through the rest of the book because I don’t know how I would’ve coped.
In terms of the story, after the incident with Maggie (I won’t say more because, spoilers), Parker’s mind has dragged up a memory from before her kidnapping by the Ashwick Butcher. That memory has the potential to cause a negative shift in her relationship with Everett and her view of the whole town. The first 60% of the book covers Parker’s desire to uncover the truth and what it may mean for her if she does so. If I’m honest, this part was a little slow. It was necessary to build towards the better part of the story but aside from odd moments, it dragged.
The final part of the story sees Parker discover just what that memory was, and the events surrounding it. She has to come to terms with seeing her friends and family in a whole new light, comparing that with what she knows about Kayn’s proclivities, and all the while protecting everybody she knows and loves from the danger of outsiders.
The book takes us through all of Parker’s emotional torment surrounding her boyfriends and the people around her. To the very end, she finds the truth difficult to accept. At the same time, she never stops embodying the final girl that she was in the first book. I found that I didn’t need her to get on board with the craziness surrounding her, but I wasn’t happy with her accepting and becoming a part of it through the lack of another option. I wanted it to be an active choice on her part.
One thing I felt I missed out on as a result of the single point of view was the thoughts and emotions of Everett and Kayn. They really would have added to the story and the struggles going on in Ashwick, along with their own emotional torment surrounding Parker’s investigations and subsequent indecision.
If you want twisted secrets and dangerous lies, along with some steamy MF, MFM and MMF action, then the Behind Closed Doors series is definitely for you. But, beware, you might not be able to handle Ashwick’s secrets.
April 10, 2022
Ok so We Keep Secrets did not turn out how I was expecting at all. I had all these theories about what would happen and it didn't ... and I loved it. There is so much darkness in Ashwick and the people that live there, further increasing the sense of wrongness about the place that Parker begins to feel more the longer she stays even with Kayn and Everett distracting her.
We Keep Secrets begins where We Tell Lies left off with Parker having to come to terms with what happened. Parker really struggles with her morality as she learns some truths that she used to know about Ashwick but has since suppressed/ forgotten them due to a traumatic event in her childhood. Kayn and Everett and the men she has given her heart too though she doesn't admit it for a long time as she battles with her sense of right and wrong. Parker only questions everything because she knows differently, she's lived outside the strange town of Ashwick.
This mental battle frightens her and leaves her immensely confused. Dark secrets come to light about the people she cares about most which forces her to look at them and the entire town in a different light. The entire town is extremely over-protective of Parker which I loved and definitely helps as she experiences a crisis of conscience almost multiple times a day.
AJ Merlin has written this incredibly thrilling story that makes your heart race and enabled me to connect with Parker. I felt how she did, the anxiety, the confusion, the panic, the shock everything. It's an interesting twist on a serial killer romance and not one I was imagining. As I was reading Parker's inner thoughts I imagine this would be how anyone would feel when faced with such moral dilemmas. Do you protect the ones you love when they've done something you know is wrong? How do you cope with knowing that what they're doing is wrong? Do you take the easy way out of do you worker harder to overcome your feelings for the ones you love?
I really enjoyed seeing the more caring side of Kayn and I have to say he is still my favourite even as we see a completely different side to Everett. We Keep Secrets was the perfect end to this thrilling duet that leaves your heart thrashing begging to escape.
We Keep Secrets begins where We Tell Lies left off with Parker having to come to terms with what happened. Parker really struggles with her morality as she learns some truths that she used to know about Ashwick but has since suppressed/ forgotten them due to a traumatic event in her childhood. Kayn and Everett and the men she has given her heart too though she doesn't admit it for a long time as she battles with her sense of right and wrong. Parker only questions everything because she knows differently, she's lived outside the strange town of Ashwick.
This mental battle frightens her and leaves her immensely confused. Dark secrets come to light about the people she cares about most which forces her to look at them and the entire town in a different light. The entire town is extremely over-protective of Parker which I loved and definitely helps as she experiences a crisis of conscience almost multiple times a day.
AJ Merlin has written this incredibly thrilling story that makes your heart race and enabled me to connect with Parker. I felt how she did, the anxiety, the confusion, the panic, the shock everything. It's an interesting twist on a serial killer romance and not one I was imagining. As I was reading Parker's inner thoughts I imagine this would be how anyone would feel when faced with such moral dilemmas. Do you protect the ones you love when they've done something you know is wrong? How do you cope with knowing that what they're doing is wrong? Do you take the easy way out of do you worker harder to overcome your feelings for the ones you love?
I really enjoyed seeing the more caring side of Kayn and I have to say he is still my favourite even as we see a completely different side to Everett. We Keep Secrets was the perfect end to this thrilling duet that leaves your heart thrashing begging to escape.
April 6, 2022
4.25 Stars 🌟
I'll keep this short, I'm not sure I'll be able to give a detailed review without giving spoilers. Make sure to read the first book, We Tell Lies, before reading We Keep Secrets.
First off, just as a warning, this book is MMF, so if that's isnt what you're looking for then maybe skip this book. But if you are looking for one that has suspenseful creepy horror, with hints of a cult, so much mystery to be solved, and where you can't trust anyone in the small town of Ashwick, Indiana, then this is a book for you.
This book kept me on the edge of my seat. No matter how many times I tried to solve the mystery, there was always a new twist that made it that bit more creepy and threw me off. There was no one Parker could truly trust. Even as she struggled to accept her feelings for both Kayn and Everett, while dealing with the surfacing of new memories. And being pulled in different directions, while still trying to keep safe those she held close to her heart.
My only problem was that I wish there would have been a few more scenes with Kayn and Everett, I loved their protectiveness and love for Parker and each other. But I always felt like Kayn and Everett were that bit more closer with each other than with Parker.
The beginning of We Keep Secrets did start of a bit slow for me, which made it a bit difficult for it to catch my attention, but once I got to the second part, it really picked up and had me hooked, I'm sad this duet has ended. AJ Merlin really did a great job with this duet!
I'll keep this short, I'm not sure I'll be able to give a detailed review without giving spoilers. Make sure to read the first book, We Tell Lies, before reading We Keep Secrets.
First off, just as a warning, this book is MMF, so if that's isnt what you're looking for then maybe skip this book. But if you are looking for one that has suspenseful creepy horror, with hints of a cult, so much mystery to be solved, and where you can't trust anyone in the small town of Ashwick, Indiana, then this is a book for you.
This book kept me on the edge of my seat. No matter how many times I tried to solve the mystery, there was always a new twist that made it that bit more creepy and threw me off. There was no one Parker could truly trust. Even as she struggled to accept her feelings for both Kayn and Everett, while dealing with the surfacing of new memories. And being pulled in different directions, while still trying to keep safe those she held close to her heart.
My only problem was that I wish there would have been a few more scenes with Kayn and Everett, I loved their protectiveness and love for Parker and each other. But I always felt like Kayn and Everett were that bit more closer with each other than with Parker.
The beginning of We Keep Secrets did start of a bit slow for me, which made it a bit difficult for it to catch my attention, but once I got to the second part, it really picked up and had me hooked, I'm sad this duet has ended. AJ Merlin really did a great job with this duet!
August 3, 2023
I'm sitting here with my mouth open!
Well first of all I love AJ Merlin and have read her books before. Now, this one is so twisted and dark I cannot say how much I loved this read! It's got everything..Twists and turns, murders, serial killers and just your average small town killers that are so bad but I loved all of them! It takes place in a small town so that in itself is creepy, I am from a small town so please don't get all offended.. Let me say this don't stop in this town to be a tourist because we're not welcome and one that stays might stay permanently! Now, Parker is fantastic and my favorite Female lead because she's confused, has a sort of amnesia, and really is forced to face pretty tough truths about her two boyfriends, btw the sizzling scenes are so hot! Now, the book is from Parker's POV. She's also very funny in a dark way and at times her inner dialogue and had me LOL! Both books are fast paced and so well written. I never could have figured all this out accept the people of this crazy murdering capital are honest and tell her everything! You'll fall in love with each and every townie and you'll despite those who are out to get them, at least I did! Hey happiness comes at a price and this town is very very happy to be a town not welcome to others. Read this duet and if its your first of her books then dark is dark so you've been warned! After reading the first book this book brings it all together and it will blow you away!
Well first of all I love AJ Merlin and have read her books before. Now, this one is so twisted and dark I cannot say how much I loved this read! It's got everything..Twists and turns, murders, serial killers and just your average small town killers that are so bad but I loved all of them! It takes place in a small town so that in itself is creepy, I am from a small town so please don't get all offended.. Let me say this don't stop in this town to be a tourist because we're not welcome and one that stays might stay permanently! Now, Parker is fantastic and my favorite Female lead because she's confused, has a sort of amnesia, and really is forced to face pretty tough truths about her two boyfriends, btw the sizzling scenes are so hot! Now, the book is from Parker's POV. She's also very funny in a dark way and at times her inner dialogue and had me LOL! Both books are fast paced and so well written. I never could have figured all this out accept the people of this crazy murdering capital are honest and tell her everything! You'll fall in love with each and every townie and you'll despite those who are out to get them, at least I did! Hey happiness comes at a price and this town is very very happy to be a town not welcome to others. Read this duet and if its your first of her books then dark is dark so you've been warned! After reading the first book this book brings it all together and it will blow you away!
March 29, 2022
An amazing duet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Overall 5/5
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 - Spice 5/5
This book is absolutely amazing. There are so many questions left at the end of book one, a mystery left for our FMC to unravel. This book brings us in a very firm direction and we (the reader and the FMC) think we know the answer even if the FMC doesn't want to accept the truth. However, Merlin is not prepared to go down without a few twist. While the FMC is not WRONG, she's also not completely RIGHT. This leads to an essential life crisis and several mental break downs. I wish I could say this leads to our FMC accepting the unexpected and they live happily ever after. However, a few more wrenches are thrown her way and she needs to figure out what is more important to her; morals or her family.
I 100% would recommend this book. I love that the FMC doesn't just roll over and accept what is happening to her like in so many dark romance books and she struggles to accept what is happening. I would like to hope that any of us in her position would have a moment where we would freak out and it leads to the belivability of the book and makes it seem more life like. Merlin also balances the line of allowing her to freak out but not make her annoying and weak. She is still a strong character with a strong backbone and sense of morals and even in the end I don't change my opinion of her. Merlin also makes the 'bad' guys of this story likable and you end up hoping they convert her to the dark side.
This is one of my favorite dark romance duets of all time. I love the characters, I love the premise of the story, and I love the plot.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Overall 5/5
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 - Spice 5/5
This book is absolutely amazing. There are so many questions left at the end of book one, a mystery left for our FMC to unravel. This book brings us in a very firm direction and we (the reader and the FMC) think we know the answer even if the FMC doesn't want to accept the truth. However, Merlin is not prepared to go down without a few twist. While the FMC is not WRONG, she's also not completely RIGHT. This leads to an essential life crisis and several mental break downs. I wish I could say this leads to our FMC accepting the unexpected and they live happily ever after. However, a few more wrenches are thrown her way and she needs to figure out what is more important to her; morals or her family.
I 100% would recommend this book. I love that the FMC doesn't just roll over and accept what is happening to her like in so many dark romance books and she struggles to accept what is happening. I would like to hope that any of us in her position would have a moment where we would freak out and it leads to the belivability of the book and makes it seem more life like. Merlin also balances the line of allowing her to freak out but not make her annoying and weak. She is still a strong character with a strong backbone and sense of morals and even in the end I don't change my opinion of her. Merlin also makes the 'bad' guys of this story likable and you end up hoping they convert her to the dark side.
This is one of my favorite dark romance duets of all time. I love the characters, I love the premise of the story, and I love the plot.
April 4, 2022
This was an enjoyable, unique & well written duet. This is book two completing the duet. The first book has more of a horror, stalker, small time mystery vibe. With the fmc trying to piece together things she can't remember from the past after a traumatic incident surviving a serial killer as a child. She is back in town and being stalked.
Book two you has more of a thriller, suspense, small town mystery "somethings off around here" vibe. And ofcourse romance. We find out things early ish on in the book so you're not made to wait its not drawn out too much, you're able to find things out and see the fmc come to terms with the secrets of the small town & the people closest to her. As well as the reality of her relationship with a serial killer from book one.
I thought all these great elements were great making it different & really interesting. Great Character and relationship exploration as well as a great story line with the mystery suspense thriller aspect and everything that went down. I thought the author did a really good job with this story with the development of the fmc & I really enjoyed the relationship between all 3 characters. I definitely recommend this unique dark menage romance. Very enjoyable and well written through out.
Book two you has more of a thriller, suspense, small town mystery "somethings off around here" vibe. And ofcourse romance. We find out things early ish on in the book so you're not made to wait its not drawn out too much, you're able to find things out and see the fmc come to terms with the secrets of the small town & the people closest to her. As well as the reality of her relationship with a serial killer from book one.
I thought all these great elements were great making it different & really interesting. Great Character and relationship exploration as well as a great story line with the mystery suspense thriller aspect and everything that went down. I thought the author did a really good job with this story with the development of the fmc & I really enjoyed the relationship between all 3 characters. I definitely recommend this unique dark menage romance. Very enjoyable and well written through out.
April 8, 2022
The riveting conclusion to the Behind Closed Doors duet!
Something isn't right in the little sleepy town of Ashwick. "No sheds. No basements. Give people their privacy, and don’t go getting your nose red." A motto the residents are all raised to know and follow.
Being at the center of tragedy again, Parker is determined to find out what exactly is going on. The townspeople are keeping secrets, her boyfriend is keeping secrets. Everyone seems privy to the goings-on but her and that's about to end.
I knew something shady was going on in Ashwick! I did not expect what was really happening! AJ kept me on my toes throughout this entire series and after Parker started getting snapshots of her memory in We Tell Lies, with what she remembered, I knew there was something big!
Everett, sweet, kind and attentive seemed to hold the key to unlocking her past that has been forgotten. Kayn, mysterious, domineering, serial killer.. pushes Parker to see passed the darkness and embrace the good instead of the bad. I loved these boys, 2 sides of the same coin and perfect to pull Parker or of her head and into the happiness they all deserve!
Amazing conclusion, amazing series as a whole!
Something isn't right in the little sleepy town of Ashwick. "No sheds. No basements. Give people their privacy, and don’t go getting your nose red." A motto the residents are all raised to know and follow.
Being at the center of tragedy again, Parker is determined to find out what exactly is going on. The townspeople are keeping secrets, her boyfriend is keeping secrets. Everyone seems privy to the goings-on but her and that's about to end.
I knew something shady was going on in Ashwick! I did not expect what was really happening! AJ kept me on my toes throughout this entire series and after Parker started getting snapshots of her memory in We Tell Lies, with what she remembered, I knew there was something big!
Everett, sweet, kind and attentive seemed to hold the key to unlocking her past that has been forgotten. Kayn, mysterious, domineering, serial killer.. pushes Parker to see passed the darkness and embrace the good instead of the bad. I loved these boys, 2 sides of the same coin and perfect to pull Parker or of her head and into the happiness they all deserve!
Amazing conclusion, amazing series as a whole!
February 17, 2025
I had hope for this book but it definitely let me down unfortunately. I loved the plot but the execution seemed off and rushed. I wouldn’t say this is a romance for how fast paced the relationships were, but it made sense. The relationships were just meet/reconnect, sex, love; in that order. The ending sucked, I get the whole choosing love over everything but Parker clearly wasn’t comfortable with what Kayn and Everette had done. Everything was rushed, there was no character building outside of Parker. I would put this as a DNF, I skimmed through it because I wanted to know the answers to the mysteries.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥
Tropes:
mystery
small town
kidnaps
mmf
mm
why choose?
thriller
Plot:
Parker has been away from her small hometown for years. It holds traumas of a childhood she doesn’t want to remember. She has come back to take care of her sister, and figure out her life plan. She meets her old best friend Everette and their chemistry picks up where it’s left off, years ago. Parker meet Kayn, a undercover reporter who spikes interests. The small town isn’t what it seems when Parker learns more about her traumas, and a stalker wants her to remember.
Bookstagram: @lolo.library_
Rating: ⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥
Tropes:
mystery
small town
kidnaps
mmf
mm
why choose?
thriller
Plot:
Parker has been away from her small hometown for years. It holds traumas of a childhood she doesn’t want to remember. She has come back to take care of her sister, and figure out her life plan. She meets her old best friend Everette and their chemistry picks up where it’s left off, years ago. Parker meet Kayn, a undercover reporter who spikes interests. The small town isn’t what it seems when Parker learns more about her traumas, and a stalker wants her to remember.
Bookstagram: @lolo.library_
April 6, 2022
Just when I thought I knew where this book was going, another crazy twist. Ashwick is a town full of secrets, death, and a bizarre amount of acceptance.
Parker is still reeling from her near death experience Halloween night, but is determined that something sinister is buried within Ashwick. Unfortunately for her, her amnesia hinders her from remembering what she’s seen and done in the past. But Parker is persistent and she continues to dig. Everett wants her know and finally lays it all out for her.
The town’s “practices” are shocking and she’s struggling to deal with it, even though she accepts Kayn and Everett for what they are and what they do.
This was a little slow for me in the beginning but it picked up and we get to see the secrets of this town unravel. I was right there with Parker thinking “how is this considered normal!?” But I loved how it came around full circle at the end Parker had to do what she needed to do to protect the ones she loved. Pretty much the motive for anyone and everyone in this town.
Parker is still reeling from her near death experience Halloween night, but is determined that something sinister is buried within Ashwick. Unfortunately for her, her amnesia hinders her from remembering what she’s seen and done in the past. But Parker is persistent and she continues to dig. Everett wants her know and finally lays it all out for her.
The town’s “practices” are shocking and she’s struggling to deal with it, even though she accepts Kayn and Everett for what they are and what they do.
This was a little slow for me in the beginning but it picked up and we get to see the secrets of this town unravel. I was right there with Parker thinking “how is this considered normal!?” But I loved how it came around full circle at the end Parker had to do what she needed to do to protect the ones she loved. Pretty much the motive for anyone and everyone in this town.
March 28, 2022
I was excited for this book to come out because I had to many questions after reading book 1 and wanted to see more of Kayn, Everett, and Parker. Just like with book 1, I was on the edge of my seat reading this and trying to figure out what was going on with everyone in this town. I will say that there were twists in this book that I didn't see coming and never would have been able to guess.
I felt so conflicted for Parker throughout this book. I could tell that she felt like she was being pulled in opposing directions and just didn't know what to do. I loved Kayn and Everett! They are protective of Parker and I genuinely like their characters. Some of the things that they would say had me laughing out loud because it was just so off the wall. I would have loved some more scenes with Kayn and Everett because their relationship is great.
If you enjoy mysteries with some steam added in then you will love this book! It will keep you guessing until the final chapter!
I felt so conflicted for Parker throughout this book. I could tell that she felt like she was being pulled in opposing directions and just didn't know what to do. I loved Kayn and Everett! They are protective of Parker and I genuinely like their characters. Some of the things that they would say had me laughing out loud because it was just so off the wall. I would have loved some more scenes with Kayn and Everett because their relationship is great.
If you enjoy mysteries with some steam added in then you will love this book! It will keep you guessing until the final chapter!
April 3, 2022
Tried to be very vague but there could be possible spoilers...
Overall I really enjoyed this series. I was so drawn into the mystery of Ashwick and I had I a pretty clear idea what was going on even from the first book but when the secrets were unveiled I was still shocked at the depth of the Ashwick "rot".
I was a little annoyed with Parker's naivete and her avoidance tactics, I really wanted that moment of acceptance to come a lot sooner but that's just my own impatience. I was also a little annoyed on her behalf because the whole town just seemed to expect her to be OK with what she learned immediately and their "reasoning" for what they do is almost nonexistent.
I don't know if it was her fighting the nature of the town and denying Kayn and Everett's proclivities but I felt a bit of a disconnect between her and the guys that never really went away. I feel like the guys had a closer relationship than she had with either of them.
Overall I really enjoyed this series. I was so drawn into the mystery of Ashwick and I had I a pretty clear idea what was going on even from the first book but when the secrets were unveiled I was still shocked at the depth of the Ashwick "rot".
I was a little annoyed with Parker's naivete and her avoidance tactics, I really wanted that moment of acceptance to come a lot sooner but that's just my own impatience. I was also a little annoyed on her behalf because the whole town just seemed to expect her to be OK with what she learned immediately and their "reasoning" for what they do is almost nonexistent.
I don't know if it was her fighting the nature of the town and denying Kayn and Everett's proclivities but I felt a bit of a disconnect between her and the guys that never really went away. I feel like the guys had a closer relationship than she had with either of them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2022
This is the conclusion to Parker (Hadley) Kayn and Everett's duet. It picks up where book 1 had left off at where Parker is trying to wrap her mind around all the bad thing's that keep happening to her. All while questioning the thing's Maggie said to her about Ashwick. The guy's are trying to be there for her, but she has a feeling that their keeping something from her or rather Everett is just what that is well, you'll just have to read it and find out for yourself, because it's definitely a shocker I didn't see that coming. I do have to say thought that as I was reading there were parts of the book that I felt lagged, but it doesn't take away from the story I just felt like it was slow in some parts or maybe I was impatient wanting to get to the action whether it was the killing or the sexy times it's a toss up.
When all secrets are unrevealed and Parker needs to figure out what she's going to do or even how to handle it, can she make the right decision?
When all secrets are unrevealed and Parker needs to figure out what she's going to do or even how to handle it, can she make the right decision?
April 11, 2022
What a thrilling and utterly suspenseful conclusion that was! Talk about a story that kept me on the edge of my seat, biting my nails with anticipation and guessing at how it was all going to turn out. I had my theories and by the end I realized that I was partially wrong! All of the secrets and conspiracies we were left with in book one, finally came to the surface, completely and utterly shocking me. I had no idea that was where this story was going. It was crazy and one hell of bumpy rollercoaster ride.
Ashwick is one creepy little sleepy town with so many hidden secrets. With every turn of the page bombshell after bombshell was dropped. It was all so totally unexpected making this story thrilling and highly entertaining.
Really well written story that kept me gripping my kindle tightly and continually had me shocked and breathless. Filled with action, suspense, violence, drama, twisted creepiness, unhinged characters and some very steamy moments.
LOVED IT.
Ashwick is one creepy little sleepy town with so many hidden secrets. With every turn of the page bombshell after bombshell was dropped. It was all so totally unexpected making this story thrilling and highly entertaining.
Really well written story that kept me gripping my kindle tightly and continually had me shocked and breathless. Filled with action, suspense, violence, drama, twisted creepiness, unhinged characters and some very steamy moments.
LOVED IT.
July 29, 2024
This book is so good. It's one of my older but favorite reads. This is definitely one book I'll always recommend to people. It's so well written and gets so spooky at times without overdoing it. I'd rate it 10 stars if I could.
A bit about it: We Keep Secrets is the second part of the duet. It picks back up with Parker, Everett, and Kayn as Parker learns more and more about her past and her forgotten memories. Things aren't adding up in Ashwick and new arrivals throw everything on its head with accusations too crazy to be real. Parker gets pulled deeper into Ashwick and it's starting to seem like there's no escape, but maybe that's not so bad.
💀 small town horror
💀 friends to lovers
💀 poly romance
💀 touch her and die
💀 repressed memories
Favorite quote:
"Well, I don't feel like a monster." "I still feel like...me. Like Parker. But I won't let you hurt them. Any of them. Not my guys. Not my sister. Not Hollie, Daisy, or Scott. None of them."
A bit about it: We Keep Secrets is the second part of the duet. It picks back up with Parker, Everett, and Kayn as Parker learns more and more about her past and her forgotten memories. Things aren't adding up in Ashwick and new arrivals throw everything on its head with accusations too crazy to be real. Parker gets pulled deeper into Ashwick and it's starting to seem like there's no escape, but maybe that's not so bad.
💀 small town horror
💀 friends to lovers
💀 poly romance
💀 touch her and die
💀 repressed memories
Favorite quote:
"Well, I don't feel like a monster." "I still feel like...me. Like Parker. But I won't let you hurt them. Any of them. Not my guys. Not my sister. Not Hollie, Daisy, or Scott. None of them."
March 28, 2022
Parker is dealing with the events of the ending of We Tell Lies, mostly the memory that has now resurfaced from her childhood & what it means. Parker is determined to get answers one way or another & come to terms with what she discovers. But a new group of strangers arrive in town further complicating matters.
This took a turn I was not expecting but thoroughly enjoyed. Love how AJ knows how to take things dark but still keep some moral compass in her characters & the way Parker deals with the truth. Things are not black & white & Parker gets the time to sort through this without just simply accepting things as they are.
A very steamy great read that will keep you turning the page until the bloody end. Will have you asking what would you do or accept for the ones you love & call family.
This took a turn I was not expecting but thoroughly enjoyed. Love how AJ knows how to take things dark but still keep some moral compass in her characters & the way Parker deals with the truth. Things are not black & white & Parker gets the time to sort through this without just simply accepting things as they are.
A very steamy great read that will keep you turning the page until the bloody end. Will have you asking what would you do or accept for the ones you love & call family.
March 29, 2022
This book was freaking amazing and I love Parker! Parker is determined to get answers from the revelations we get at the end of book one. I thought her growth and acceptance of what has happened was everything it should have been. Not everything is as it seems and watching Parker go through the motions of working through everything is exactly how it should have been and with the guys by her side supporting her it was everything. Kayn and Everett are freaking life. They are everything I could have ever hoped for. They are protective, complete cray and oh so sexy! There were some definite twists and turns that I didn’t see coming and it added so much to my reading experience and I could not put this book down. This baby was a bit dark, super hot and the spice was on point. Throw in the mystery and suspense for some added drama and you have a true winner!
March 29, 2022
4.25 Stars!! 💚
As soon as i reached the end of We Tell Lies i couldn't wait for more! I started counting down the days until i could dive into this second installment! I picked it up as soon as i could and got right back into the Behind Closed Doors world. I so enjoyed it!
Parker, Everett, and Kayn's journey continues! I was so glad to jump back into this world. I wasn't sure what all was going to happen next with these characters and that had me even more glued to my kindle. I loved how throughout both installments i was kept on my toes. I really enjoyed how each character made me feel so much!
With We Keep Secrets, Ms.Merlin has created a great and dark continuation that you won't want to turn away from! I can't wait for more from her! 💚
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Peachy Keen Author Services / the author*
As soon as i reached the end of We Tell Lies i couldn't wait for more! I started counting down the days until i could dive into this second installment! I picked it up as soon as i could and got right back into the Behind Closed Doors world. I so enjoyed it!
Parker, Everett, and Kayn's journey continues! I was so glad to jump back into this world. I wasn't sure what all was going to happen next with these characters and that had me even more glued to my kindle. I loved how throughout both installments i was kept on my toes. I really enjoyed how each character made me feel so much!
With We Keep Secrets, Ms.Merlin has created a great and dark continuation that you won't want to turn away from! I can't wait for more from her! 💚
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Peachy Keen Author Services / the author*
March 30, 2022
Wow
I had no idea what the author had up her sleeve...it's amazing!! So many twists and turns. Parker is still reeling from her experience with Maggie. She doesn't know how to deal with so many things on top of her existing conflicts. Her panic attacks and blackouts are frequently setting her back but the two men she's growing to love won't let her slip away. Kayn and Everett have been getting very close on their own but are not complete without her.
The new discoveries which are wonderfully written, make this edition a mastery. I was never anticipating some of what has happened to Parker that she doesn't remember. Things she's done and seen almost break her. But the town of her childhood rallies around her, along with her sister and two lovers. She makes her back from the past and steps into her future. At home. With the loves of her life. Fabulous duet!!
I had no idea what the author had up her sleeve...it's amazing!! So many twists and turns. Parker is still reeling from her experience with Maggie. She doesn't know how to deal with so many things on top of her existing conflicts. Her panic attacks and blackouts are frequently setting her back but the two men she's growing to love won't let her slip away. Kayn and Everett have been getting very close on their own but are not complete without her.
The new discoveries which are wonderfully written, make this edition a mastery. I was never anticipating some of what has happened to Parker that she doesn't remember. Things she's done and seen almost break her. But the town of her childhood rallies around her, along with her sister and two lovers. She makes her back from the past and steps into her future. At home. With the loves of her life. Fabulous duet!!
April 7, 2025
I loved both of these books. The first one was close to being a 4.5/75 star but the ending saved it (even though I was so lost).
The second book made me so mad because EVERYONE was lying about something. Then they acted like Parker (the fmc) wasn’t an adult and needed them to decide things for her. They all kept a big secret from her then decided not to tell her like it shouldn’t have been her decision. It was a 5 because of the mystery and writing. Even though it irritated me I did enjoy trying to find out the secret (what I though it was was technically true but wasn’t the whole truth)
But anyway💕 this was very different from AJ Merlin’s other books and I really enjoyed that. Everett and Kayn were so sweet. I’m happy that Parker did find out the thing she had forgotten and feels better now🩷
The second book made me so mad because EVERYONE was lying about something. Then they acted like Parker (the fmc) wasn’t an adult and needed them to decide things for her. They all kept a big secret from her then decided not to tell her like it shouldn’t have been her decision. It was a 5 because of the mystery and writing. Even though it irritated me I did enjoy trying to find out the secret (what I though it was was technically true but wasn’t the whole truth)
But anyway💕 this was very different from AJ Merlin’s other books and I really enjoyed that. Everett and Kayn were so sweet. I’m happy that Parker did find out the thing she had forgotten and feels better now🩷
March 29, 2022
Creepier & Creepier Secrets Revealed
When a group of outsiders squat in Ashwick on the scent of both Maggie's and Kurtis' deaths, Parker's memories start filtering back along with hidden truths. The steps taken to ensure secrets remain hidden drive Parker to the brink. Ashwick's secrets kept getting creepier!
When is a monster truly a monster? Five, four, three, two, one and none......
"Would you condone the lioness for killing the hyena when it tries to steal her cubs?"
Not as much heat between the sheets as I thought this had potential for; more of a sweet heat. Plot for the duet focused more on the suspense and the author had me on edge waiting for answers and the wait was worth it!
When a group of outsiders squat in Ashwick on the scent of both Maggie's and Kurtis' deaths, Parker's memories start filtering back along with hidden truths. The steps taken to ensure secrets remain hidden drive Parker to the brink. Ashwick's secrets kept getting creepier!
When is a monster truly a monster? Five, four, three, two, one and none......
"Would you condone the lioness for killing the hyena when it tries to steal her cubs?"
Not as much heat between the sheets as I thought this had potential for; more of a sweet heat. Plot for the duet focused more on the suspense and the author had me on edge waiting for answers and the wait was worth it!
March 30, 2022
Yesssss This was a perfect complement to We Tell Lies, the journey that Parker is on in this book is so intense, she comes to the edge of insanity so to speak, finding out who she is where she comes from and who everyone is around her is a freaking Rollercoaster of crazy chaos but its sooooo steamy. Her relationship with both Ev and Kyan is a leap for her because they both represent everything she fears and yet is everything she wants and everything she can't live without. The fact that they all love each other and not just Parker is so hotttt, those scenes were fiiiiiiiiirrrrre! I loved the ending and really want more of their story in the future. I want to see what trouble they can all get into. AJ Merlin you are a goddess and I loved it.
April 2, 2022
This was a really good ending to this duet. I enjoyed the way Ev, Kyan and Parker’s relationship developed throughout the book and seeing the choices she makes surrounding them. The book was not incredibly spice heavy, but it was well written.
Now, the plot on the other hand… this was a very plot heavy book, in a good way. There were so many twists and turns. Every time I thought I had a handle on what was happening, the author made a 90 degree turn. It was impossible to figure out what was going to happen right up to the end!
If you like well plotted mysteries, morally grey characters who make questionable decisions and some good MMF action, definitely check this book, and this duet out.
Now, the plot on the other hand… this was a very plot heavy book, in a good way. There were so many twists and turns. Every time I thought I had a handle on what was happening, the author made a 90 degree turn. It was impossible to figure out what was going to happen right up to the end!
If you like well plotted mysteries, morally grey characters who make questionable decisions and some good MMF action, definitely check this book, and this duet out.
May 3, 2022
“What, you don’t think Everett and I want to just take turns, do you? No, pretty girl. My sweet, pretty thing.”
This duet was nothing like I expected. The town of Ashwick really is a messed up small town to say the least but the townspeople will do whatever it takes to protect the little slice of land they call home.
There are so many twists and turns. While everyone else is totally accepting of the way they live, I do love to see that Parker, even in the end, is still coming to terms with it all. But no matter what, her love for her family, and friends and most of all Kayn and Everett take precedence over everything. She would do anything to protect them.
So different from any other books I’ve read. I absolutely loved it .
This duet was nothing like I expected. The town of Ashwick really is a messed up small town to say the least but the townspeople will do whatever it takes to protect the little slice of land they call home.
There are so many twists and turns. While everyone else is totally accepting of the way they live, I do love to see that Parker, even in the end, is still coming to terms with it all. But no matter what, her love for her family, and friends and most of all Kayn and Everett take precedence over everything. She would do anything to protect them.
So different from any other books I’ve read. I absolutely loved it .
January 8, 2023
All right. This one got weird.
I really enjoyed book one. The mystery was so intriguing and I loved the dynamic between the three mains.
However, this one took a turn. This town is so messed up. And don’t get me wrong, I love reading dark stories. But this was just weird.
And it seemed like the whole first book Parker was unsure if she was okay with her f boyfriends being killers but by the end of this book she said “f it” and kinda went off the deep end too. Which I guess kinda makes sense for the story.
I don’t know, I’m just conflicted about that ending. I wanted something more to happen then just her accepting that everything was fine the way it was in a town full of serial killers.
I really enjoyed book one. The mystery was so intriguing and I loved the dynamic between the three mains.
However, this one took a turn. This town is so messed up. And don’t get me wrong, I love reading dark stories. But this was just weird.
And it seemed like the whole first book Parker was unsure if she was okay with her f boyfriends being killers but by the end of this book she said “f it” and kinda went off the deep end too. Which I guess kinda makes sense for the story.
I don’t know, I’m just conflicted about that ending. I wanted something more to happen then just her accepting that everything was fine the way it was in a town full of serial killers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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