Secrets Embraced

Silver Valley University #3

by Alisha Williams

Just when I thought we've won, that we get our happily ever after, the universe has other plans.

Tragedy has hit our little family, but we won't let it break us.

We will lean on each other and push forward.

I have them back now, the 4 who owned my heart and soul from the start.

And along side my newest addition to my heart, I'm excited to take this new step in our lives.

But it's never easy when it comes to my life. There's people who want to see me fail, to take what's mine.

They can try, but they will fail.

Silver Valley University is a college bully, Reverse Harem. This book may have some darker themes. Please be advised that sexu@l a$$ault is a big topic in this story. Graphic s€x. Sw£aring. Age gap. Alc0hol abus€.

Genres: Second Chance, M M Romance, Why Choose, College, Contemporary, Romance, Dark Romance

470 pages, ebook

First published November 28, 2022

About the author

I'm a 32 year old mama of 2. I LOVE to read and write. I'll read just about anything, but Reverse harems are my favorite!

Reviews

[G · Rating 5 out of 5]

4/5 stars
FANTASTIC CONCLUSION TO THE SERIES
When this ARC dropped to my kindle I immediately stopped what I was reading to start it. I haven been so engrossed in this series as soon as it came out. One of my favourites from the author.
I had high hopes for this book and Alisha Williams clearly did not disappoint.
The group dynamic progresses nicely as the story continues. I love the dynamic between them all and the friendship they share.
I thoroughly enjoyed how this book was considered their HEA. Even though there was drama it was great to read how they became a family. The character growth was spectacular. Brody and Theo forming an unexpected friendship was great. They both take protective to the next level.
Side note- I NEED VAL TO HAVE HER OWN STORY!! THE WAY I LAUGH WHEN SHE BLURTS STUFF OUT....HILARIOUS!!!
That epilogue though...... I really want to read a book about Toby, Bishop and Lilly now!!! I highly recommend you read this series! It will suck you in from the first page. *Make sure you look up the trigger warnings beforehand* Looking forward to reading more from the author!!

[Sabrina · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book felt like what I imagine falling asleep during sex feels like. The plot didn't really seem to go anywhere and instead the whole book was full of sex scenes that became boring. I'm glad I read all three books and stuck with the series but overall I didn't love the story as much as I hoped I would

[Sue Miz · Rating 1 out of 5]

I love spicy books
When they are written with a purpose and a story
There was no story here
Just sex upon sex upon sex upon more sex
Which would be fine if this was the aim of this series
But it is not, isn't it?

Book one was amazing
One of the best bully college romances
I've read in a long time
Miscommunication
Secret pregnency
Good tropes
It lived up to its name "Hidden Secrets" I was drawn in with the story and the characters and the tragedy and the spice and of course that amazing ending
Book 2 was ok
Started up great
Expected grovelling
Didnt get anything
No problems no drama up until the end
Just kept dragging
Thought something would happen in this book
But No
This was like a loooooong epilogue to books 1&2
And 400 pages of nothing
So let's see
Plot: non existent
Characters: no development
Goals: couldnt see any
Writing: not bad but childish considering they are at college
The only star goes to the spicy scenes
So if you want a vanilla version of den of vipers this is it
I wish the writer could give us more like book one. She is a good writer

[tane'a · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️ i’m waiting on my hands and knees for the next gen books, i know they are gonna be too good😭

[Jenifer Briggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a wonderful conclusion to such an epic series!!! That cliffy during the last book had me salivating for this one, and I couldn't wait to see our girl get the happy ending she so deserves.

The first few chapters were so emotional, and I just felt devastated right along with Brody and his sudden loss. His growth among the series has been so great to witness, and I loved how he continued to be vulnerable to Ellie and the rest of the Harem. They were truly each others family in ever way, and I loved how much love they had for one another.

My only complaint is that I felt line Brody, Jax, Chase and Rain were prioritized in this book, which left Theo being on the outskirts. Theo will always be my favorite in the series, so I could just be biased, but I wanted him to get some love too.

I did love the epilogue and how happy everyone was though! And that sneak peak into Lillys future?! I can't WAIT!!!

don't miss out on this book and this amazing author!

**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **

[TheBookOrchestra · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I say I waited for this book, I WAITED for this book. I usually don't read books that are not complete but the blurb was so interesting I said why not.

When I found out book 3 wasn't there I was so sad cause I'm like what's going to happen now. I can proudly say though that I did read this book and omg.

I was expecting alot and it was delivered lol. This was such a good book and I just loved this whole series. It breaks my heart what the fmc had to go through in the beginning but she got her ending and I'm here for it.

Check the trigger warnings and give this series a try. You won't regret it!

[Bobby Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

oh the emotions

This book had the emotions of the other books but I felt more growth from all of the characters. Their strengths within themselves and each other outweighed any weaknesses they may have had. I love how they all took care of each other and new what the other person needed before they did. I’m excited for the other characters to get their own stories and I can’t wait to read them

[Melanie Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Noooo I don't want it to end I live the guys and raine and ell so much and that epilogue why alishia why would you do that I need lily and Toby and Bishop now some of the scenes in the book had me laughing out loud I filled up in quite a bit aswell it was so good and now the waiting begins 😔🤣

[Britney rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely beautiful end to an awesome series!!! I have loved these characters from the beginning this series is 😘😘😘😘. This book gavee all the warm and fuzzy feels😍😍😍

[Emelia Love · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alisha you killed it with this book! Between the crazy stalker bitches and mommy dearest this book took you up and down the emotional coaster!! I would also like to state 🖕 karen and 🖕 kayla!

[Spasticnontastic · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5

[Christy Bailey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow!

This series was definitely different from what I'm used to, but it was amazing! Such a different outlook on life, and I can't wait to read more about this crazy bunch. Especially Val!!! She was freaking amazing and definitely the best friend a girl could ask for. Plus, her sense of humor was epic!!! I also want a lilypad story!!!

[Sam · Rating 1 out of 5]

That single star is only because there's no zero option.

[Brandi-Lynn Weiser · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t know what to expect going in, and wasn’t sure if I’d like it. But holy cow! Alisha truly exceeded my expectations! I loved this series, it was really really good! They only thing I would’ve liked to have seen in book 2 was some really good groveling, but being able to get a clear picture of what Brody dealt with made it better to understand him and understand why he was the way he was. My heart broke for him, but I was so proud of him and how he overcame his struggles. He really turned himself around, and I was so happy for him to be the father. He deserved that. But Rain, beyond her hurt, she had no reason for her actions. I wasn’t exactly a big fan of hers, but book 3 changed my mind, I walked away liking her- a little! Theo was truly so sweet and accepting, Chase was hilarious, and oh sweet Jax!
This is definitely a must read trilogy series. Book 1 takes you through all the heartache and bullying. Alisha really paints a good picture of what Ellie went through and is dealing with with coming back. Book 2, there’s not really any bullying, but it’s more about the fallout of the revelation of what really happened that night, and Rain and Brody realizing how truly wrong they were about everything- especially how they treated Ellie. It’s also about Ellie finally getting justice. I loved seeing Chase with Lilly and how him, Brody, Jax and Rain wanted to know her and we’re so eager to be her parents. Also how they all accepted Theo was good, and especially how they accepted Toby as theirs too. And lastly book 3. They’re all trying to navigate being one big family, and doing an amazing job at it! We still have the drama of Kayla- crazy b**** she is! And there’s a new obsessive crazy now too! But we also get a little surprise addition!!! It’s definitely a roller coaster of ups and downs.
Book 3 was my favorite, I thought the best thing for me was just how accepting they all were of Toby. It was so special and sweet how none of them treated him differently. They were all one very big family!
I’m really really really excited to see what Alisha has in store for the future. I see a angsty and emotional story for Toby and Lilly. He seems to be fighting his feelings and she is definitely in love with him. Plus there’s Bishop in their relationship!! Definitely excited to see how their story develops.

[Kathy Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow amazing series

This series is so good. I love this author so much and i think you will too. I highly recommend this series. And the others. Ive read a few and havent been disappointed yet. Now a spoiler......




My fav is Brody. Most would say hell no cause he was the worse of rhe bunch but when you read on you know why. No excuse for bullying but when you get past that you see all the pain there was there. Not loke the other who had parents who loved them. Brody didnt have that. He had a mother who dispised him. Couldnr stand him wished he was dead. Only cared about money. My heart broke for him how vile his mother was and then his dad a drunk. Who is suppose to love and care for his son but turned out to be the otber way around where he had to care for his dad. Cleaning up after him even when his dad didnt care or show him love or being proud of his accomplishments and yet he was still there to take of his dad. Then to come home to find his dad had been dead a few days broke him on another level. It broke my heart. Jax is my sec fav because he always took care of his man Brody no matter what. He stood by his side. Watching and hating what his parents turned brody into. But still stood by his love. Him and Em took care of him and stood by him throughout everything. They came to a time where he coukd love and trust the family he had with them and his BF. He became the best father to his child and to the other children when he realized he isnt his parents. Jax stood by Brody and Em through it all. Brody and his Dom ways with both Jax and Em are hot as hell. Dont get me wrong i love all the characters here. Chase the fun childlike but also dirty talker. Theo the knight who saved her. And even the Red headed Bombshell had a dirty was about her. Once everyone's head was outta their buttons. They were fantastic and loved everything about them. I'm glad they all had a HEA. And well with the last Epilog I see drama with Lillys and Toby. I'm just not sure why. He knows she loves him. They are only 3 years apart and they know they arent blood related. Maybe now he is going off to college and he is probably like 15 or 16 he sees it as wrong idk but i hope it isnt a bully romance between them. It wouldnt make sense but i have a feeling it will be. I cant wait to read Coopers Vals and Lillys.

[Kylie Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this arc in exchange for my honest review. This is the final book in the Silver Valley University trilogy. Alisha nails it every darn time. Every book blows me away. This was SUCH an addicting trilogy, I was sucked in from the first paragraph in book 1. These characters all took hold of my heart from page one, and will forever live rent free in my head. I couldn’t have wished for this book to conclude the series any better than it was . I ADORED Ellie. She is an amazingly strong and resilient FMC, a sweet mother, and a freak in the sheets with her lovers. This poor woman went through so much trauma and heartache before she finally gets the HEA she rightfully deserved.
The character development was so well done in this book, but Brody, he absolutely blew me away.
Brody carries a very heavy burden, always looking out for his alcoholic father, and when he’s not able to help him any more, he almost breaks. The way he leans on Ellie and Jax, no longer using alcohol as a crutch, was such a huge step for him. I love the dynamic between all of them, they’re their own little family, always strongest when they’re together. The old Brody would have never followed in this path of healing if it wasn’t for being reunited with Ellie and leaning on his new family.
The way they collectively put one another back together, was the key to the amazing character and plot development in this book. My heart ached knowing the series was coming to an end, but knowing we get a glimpse of them in the future has me so excited for what’s to come. This is the type of series you don’t forget about once its over. The characters and their story stick with you forever. Alisha has become one of my top favorite reverse harem authors, she just does it so friggin well !
I 150% recommend this series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[bookish.nova · Rating 5 out of 5]

• ARC Review •

Secrets Embraced by Alisha Williams

Ratings:
⭐️: 4.5/5
🌶: 4.5/5

Quote: “You and us, babe. Forever and always.”

Tropes: why choose, second chance, friends to lovers to enemies to lovers, teacher/student, age gap, FF, MM

——————————————————

I loved this conclusion of Ellie’s story! Seeing Ellie and her gang together and happy was everything I’d been waiting on. This honestly felt like an extended epilogue which I really liked. Don’t get me wrong - there’s definitely some conflict and bad events, but for the most part we get to see Ellie, Rain, Theo, Chase, Brody, and Jax settle into their lives. Another part that I liked was that no one brushed the past under the rug and just forgot about it. Instead, Rain, Chase, Brody, and Jax used it as their motivation to continually treat Ellie and Lilly as they queens they are and remind themselves that being in their lives is a privilege and not a right. Theo was perfect as he was in the previous two books, but I will say I’m a little sad that he seemed to take more of a backseat role in this book. I love this family so much, and am sad to see them temporarily go. I say temporarily because of course Alisha couldn’t end the story without teasing us about Lilly, Toby, and Bishop’s story. And to that teaser, I say BRING THAT STORY ASAP PLEASE.

[Kyla · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great end to the series! I’m a bit speechless. When this showed up on my kindle, I couldn’t wait to read it, and boy was it worth it! It’s so sad to see these characters go, but this final book was so good! I love Alisha’s writing; she always amazes me. Everything fits together like a giant puzzle with all the pieces put in their correct places. From the characters to the world to the plot, it’s excellent. This one picks up where the last left off and it jumps right back into the chaos that is Silver Valley. There is some tragedy, and trauma, on top of SA, so beware before reading. Ellie and her guy’s relationship growth is amazing and the way they come together to support each other is wonderful to see. Ellie is such a strong, smart, and independent woman, but she’s come to realize it’s ok to lean on others. I loved seeing how their individual relationships flourished. Even with everything falling apart around them, they were able to rally and stand behind one another. If pregnancy isn’t your jam, be aware that, that is a huge part of this final book. Am I going to miss these characters? You bet. But I can’t wait to see what Alisha comes up with next. If you love why choose with mm, ff, pregnancy, tragedy, twists and turns, and much more then I highly recommend this series! 🖤

[WhyChoose Book Boyfriend Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

I must admit I have been invested in this series from the beginning, even though I didn't realize it had FF until I read the first book. And I have to say that although it did have FF it didn't deter me from this series. Also I have to say I'm a bit sad that this series and these characters are done for now. But fear not there is a note at the end of the book saying they will pop up in other books that are upcoming.

Oh Ellie, I was in awe of your character and everything you had been through in this entire series. There were so many times you could have given up and broke down, but you stayed strong through it all.

Ahhhh the guys and girl.... I actually happened to love Chase's childlike enthusiasm and vulnerability he showed throughout this series.... I really like Theo's character.... Brody man you had a lot to make up for but you totally redeemed yourself.... I want to say I think Rain was my least favorite of the characters in this series. I just never warmed up to her character and found her to be a bit annoying and whine-y.... But my favorite character by far was Jax....

As mentioned above I hate to see a series end when you become invested in it. But also as mentioned above this is not completely the end of these characters as they'll be making appearences in upcoming books/series.

I'm giving this whole series 4.5 Stars out of 5!!!!!@

[Aubrey Ramirez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Secrets Embraced (Silver Valley University #3)
By: Alisha Williams

Rating: 4⭐️/5
3.5🔥/5


✨Tropes✨
- Second Chance
- Why Choose
- Enemies to Lovers
- Age Gap
- FF
- MM

I swear Alisha is becoming one of my favorite authors because I am never disappointed in her writing! This is the third and final book in the series and it was a perfect conclusion!

The storyline picks up right where it left off in the second book so you dive right back into Silver Valley. Without giving too much away you will still continue to get a lot of twists and trauma with this book but above all I loved seeing the emotional growth from all of the characters within their relationship!

I loved Ellie’s character from the beginning she’s strong, independent and quick witted. She’s always counted on herself but it was beautiful to see her growth with accepting her partners in and allowing herself to learn she could count on them as she could herself. Despite dealing with struggle after struggle this family does find their HEA. It does take time and there are some twists that had me thinking they might not make it but I’m so happy how everything turned out. I won’t lie that I did definitely shed a few tears but it was worth it! I’m sad the series is over but I will always have love for these characters. If you haven’t started this series yet now is definitive the time!! You won’t regret it! 🥹🙌

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

The spice is killer in this one. Perfection. I have been struggling to focus on reading lately and this got me out of my slump. I love how this wraps everyone’s storylines up. My heart is so happy. Ellie is such a bad@$$ for all she’s come through. I love how the author works the children into their lives and they are so happy and appreciate the relationships between everyone. Everyone’s relationships develop significantly and they are all closer than ever. Triggers in this though. Heed the warnings.

Brody redeemed himself for sure. The way he just becomes her biggest protector.

Even with all the happy there of course has to be drama with two women who are off their rockers. Stalking is not cute and they both got what they deserved.

My heart is so happy. I am looking forward to more stories in the same world. It will be weird to see Lilly and Toby grown up together but I can totally support it. I would love to hear more about Val and Cooper’s happy endings.

I think there needs to be a crossover with SVU and Knock Em Down. 😜

Also I feel like the abbreviation for Silver Valley University and the themes of consent and consensual relationships are a nod to the ever popular Law and Order: Special Victims Unit

[Stabby · Rating 5 out of 5]

This books picks up where Secrets Revealed ended with Ellie in a ditch from racing to be with Brody in the rain. She knew she had to get to him and she wasn’t going to let anything stop her. Brody found his dads body and wasn’t letting go. Jax and Ellie helped him to begin to heal and to realize he was nothing like him. Rain, Chase and Theo were all there for him. Ellie told Lily that Jax, Chase and Brody were her dads and that Rain was also her mama. This was the beginning of them all healing what was broken and becoming a family with Theo and Toby too. Theo is so selfless and supportive with Ellie being there for her other lovers. It may look like he’s in the background, but he’s actually the glue that holds everyone together. Ellie and the gang buy a house and begin to have some kind of normalcy. Enter Karen a crazy lady from Theo’s past who is determined to ruin Ellie’s grades, but Theo finally realizes what she’s doing and helps Ellie. Then we have a crazy stalker after chase and let’s just say Kayla is not playing with a full deck. This book wrapped up everything, but yet left so much open. I can’t wait for Val and the gangs books

[M Mendes Bookstagram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my….i don’t know even where to start. Loved reading all about Ellie, Rain, Jax, Brody, Chase, Theo, Lilly, Toby, and Bennet. Alisha Williams, author, did a fantastic job with Secrets Embraced. Alisha is one of my favorite authors and Secrets Embraced is a good example of why. Secrets Embraced is filled with a wide variety of the fills and has so much twists, turns, things going sideways, secrets, angst, revelations, and lots of heat 🔥🔥. I highly recommend Secrets Embraced and that the Silver Valley University series in order. I can’t wait for Cooper, Val, and Lilly’s stories. I really want to read Lilly’s. I have a feeling that it’s gonna be just as fantastic as Secrets Embraced. I highly recommend Alisha Williams as an author and for readers to check out her other books. You won’t be disappointed if you are like me and love books that capture your attention and heart and doesn’t let go. Books where you laugh one minute and in the next have tears running down your cheeks. I for one will be reading Solidarity Academy series next with Knock ‘Em Down!! Happy Reading!!

[Kylee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my all time favorite series! I honestly couldn’t get enough of it and I’m sooooo glad I’ve read it. Alisha really knows how to draw a person into her stories and this one is no exception. I was entranced the from the first page! I honestly couldn’t be more excited that I’ve read the whole series, but also sad because it’s ending. I love each and everyone of these characters!

I truly love Ellie. She is an amazing, strong and so full of love. One thing I loved is how she is so willing to love her men and Rain. I will say I am really proud of Brody and the way he’s overcome the struggles he’s been through, especially after everything. Ellie is so patient with him. And Theo, I absolutely LOVE him. He makes my heart sing with joy every time I read about him. He is so protective of Ellie and their little ones it makes me happy.

Spice? Yes! And everything in-between. Alisha did a good job with this, and I won’t lie…. I may have blushed a little bit lol.

Overall, this book was AMAZING. I highly recommend to anyone. This is one of my favorite series and it was such a good book. I’m a little sad to see it end, but I will always love this series so much!

[Anshul (stories.buddy) · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s a beautiful story coming to an end that is filled with emotions of all types. The story is fast-paced and is purely based on healing and getting back with the people in love. The entire series deals with some heavy issues and you’ll see all of it come to a happy end in this book. Although nothing goes as the characters plan it to be but happiness finds itself after every breaking point. I loved the characters and how in time they become with each other irrespective of their personalities. A very different type of ‘why choose’ that I read and I loved the dynamics here. It was too hot and rose the temperature in most of the chapters. Ellie is sweetest, Theo is kind, Broody and Jax are pillars ever after the former’s issues, Chase is man child, and Rain is bada**. The writing is perfect for my taste, I was captivated and the flavour of the book is intense. I want Lilly’s book now, that glimpse is driving me crazy.

It’s a 4.5⭐️ for me.

[Katrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing conclusion

Secrets Embraced is the third and final book in the Silver Valley University series by Alisha Williams.

This book picks up where book two ends, as Ellie rushes to Brody’s father’s house. Just starting to get back together, they face a new challenge which leaves Brody feeling guilty and empty. When the haze lifts, the reunion between Brody and Ellie is amazing, but brings some new changes to their little family. Previous threats still remain as new threats are introduced. As we read about their day-to-day lives, we see how Ellie, Brody, Jax, Chase, Theo, and Rain battle and eliminate these threats until they get their HEA.

As always, Alisha Williams delivers to us an amazing story with panty-melting spice (including FF, MM, and group scenes), very real struggles and the resulting emotions, and characters with whom you will fall in love. While I’m sad to see their story end, I know it’s just a “see you later.”

[Kylar Combs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whoa. I have been waiting for this book, and the finale to this series, for almost a year since beginning the first book thinking I could read a chapter or two and didn’t put it down until I finished it at 3am. The chokehold Alisha has on me 🤣 y’all, this author was a fast favorite of mine and I will never pass up on her books.

We got the ending to Ellie, Rain, Brody, Jax, Chase, and Theo and I couldn’t be happier. After the HORRIBLE cliffhanger of the second book, I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see how this book played out and it was absolutely amazing. I, once again, read this book in one sitting and I cannot wait to add the paperbacks for the whole series to my shelf as I will for sure be re-reading these in the future.

If you haven’t started the Silver Valley University series, please do! You won’t regret it, and it will be a great addition to your bookshelf!

[Ms Cat's World · Rating 4 out of 5]

Healing & Futures Together ❣️

The second book in this reverse harem series ended with Ellie in a car crash on the way to a devastated Jax and Brody upon finding Brody's father dead. His death leaving Brody empty, but given the pathway towards cleansing and healing.

Chase, Brody and Jax graduate from SVU. Rain and Ellie continue their education when the fall semester starts up again. New jobs, healing and moving forward to a new future together is the main theme as their trilogy concludes with lots of spicy 🔥 moments; very steamy 💋

Extended epilogues showcase the newest members of their family and branches into Lilly's POV eleven years into the future when Toby starts college. Author annotates at the end that Ellie and her lovers' characters well also be appearing in Cooper, Val's and Lilly's stories ❣️

[Laurenloveslit81 · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I loved this series so much and I am so sad to see it end but Alisha definitely gave Ellie and her crew the perfect ending! If you haven't started it yet, this series has it all- MM, FF, age gap, group scenes, drama, and angst!

I wasn't sure what to expect from this last book because even though we were left on a cliffhanger, for the most part, things had been worked out as far as the relationships go. However, Alisha still managed to pack a lot in this book and it definitely kept me entertained.

And can we talk about the spice in this book!? I knew once Broody Brody got his act together that the spice was going to be good but good doesn't even begin to cover it! I am obsessed with him!

Based on the end, I know Alisha has amazing things planned for the future and I can't wait to see more from the Silver Valley world!

[Angela Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartwarming story

This is such a fantastic wrap up of the SVU trilogy and is full of emotional moments. Ellie and the guys all grow closer and become a unit with Theo and Toby. So good to see everyone getting on despite their rocky start to work together to support Ellie. Massive changes for the guys especially Jax as he reassess his career choices. Alisha packs this book full of spice and the amazing scenes with Ellie, Jax and Brody are red hot. 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
Couldn’t stop laughing at a Karen in this book, we all love to hate them.
The epilogues were so well written and really wrapped the book up nicely. Definitely looking forward to reading further books written featuring the SVU world.