Amid Secrets

Falling Castles #3

by Stacy Lynn Miller

Some secrets are meant to be told. Some never should.

The four years since William Castle’s death have been a rollercoaster ride for Alex Castle and Tyler Falling. In the beginning, they soared as life partners and business owners. Then the worldwide economy crashed, and so did their idyllic life. Alex has spent every waking hour since to keep Castle Resorts afloat, letting her relationship with Tyler take a backseat.

Just when Alex and Tyler commit to getting back on track, decades-old dark secrets surrounding a scandalous affair, rape, abandonment, and confidential adoptions come to light. Someone in the Castle family’s past with a deep grudge holds the oldest secret of them all and intends on exacting revenge.

The tsunami of secrets converges and threatens to tear apart their families and tear down the businesses of every Castle child. No one close to Alex and Tyler is left untouched. Can Alex and Tyler pull each other through? Will their love be enough to keep everything they’d built from coming undone?

Genres: Mystery, Audiobook, Family Drama, Romance

302 pages, Paperback

First published February 21, 2023

About the author

Stacy Lynn Miller is a retired Air Force officer who found her passion for writing after leaving the service. With twenty years of experience wearing a badge, working with computers, and investigating cases, she has created multiple award-winning thriller and suspense series packed with strong sapphic women, gripping stories, and a perfect blend of intrigue and romance.

Stacy is a visually impaired, proud stroke survivor, mother of two, tech nerd, and chocolate lover. She's also a terrible golfer who managed to get a hole-in-one! When she's not busy writing, you can find her playing golf or enjoying a glass of wine (sometimes both) with her friends and family in Northern California.

Reviews

[Diane Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Arc provided by both NetGalley and The Publisher (Bella Books) in exchange for a honest review'

**'Never try to censor your characters. Let them be very valuable in your stories and even talkative to the point of being respectful at times..'

4.5stars!
Was i anxiously awaiting for this book to drop? And was i also eager to know the outcome after that cliffhanger in 'BLIND SUSPICION?' Of course, so i had to rush to get it. And once again Ms.Lynn Miller does not disappoint -- bringing her energetic talent to bear in this tantalizing follow-up book #3 of her mesmerizing ongoing saga. It's the right title, the right cover to go along with it's roller coaster of emotions in it's crime related plotline and plot twists.
If her other books in this series were deem both amazing and creative thrill riders through family chaos et al then 'AMID SECRETS' is on another level of redefining dramatic crime thriller -- where hurt/broken people do try to hurt others because when promises are broken then their dreams dies too.
The storyline kicks off with a few years since book #2 where Ms.Lynn Miller pivots from telling past backstories to the present including an array of updates about the many of the supporting characters --- some nefarious ones, some imperfect ones and some with redeeming qualities that are all involved in this plotline -- surrounding the two main leads (Alex & Tyler)
'AMID SECRETS' has a barrage of culminating plotlines from amateur criminal masterminds to scammers, vindictiveness, robbery to gangsters etc.. -- with many riveting moments, shocking twists and not to forget the other half of it's premise, the love story or stories.
When the smoke clears the criminals get their comeuppance, everyone is in a joyous mood and Alex & Tyler are in their happily ever after blissful time --- is this it for the Falling series? Will Ms.Lynn Miller gives us, her readers another book? Will she continue telling their (Alex, Tyler & the others) story? Because this is such a compelling series.
A highly recommended book #3 and series!

[pipsqueakreviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

It never rains but it pours.

This is the 3rd book of the Falling Castles series of which I am a loyal fan of. I am someone who rarely enjoys mystery and thriller novels but I have found this series to be rather exciting, fast-paced and pretty much enjoyable and awesome. Miller knows how to keep the series going - There's never a dull moment and every book is a build up to the next, which is good in keeping the interest going. I'm also a fan of the romance between the two women who have absolutely nothing in common. Alex and Tayler fell hopelessly in love with each other almost instantly and have been fighting to stay together ever since and I've been liking them both since the first book.

While I love this series, there were a few things I didn't like about this latest book. One, this series has many significant characters and while this was something I noted in the past, it didn't bother me until now because I kinda forgot who was who while reading this third book. Two, it never rains but it pours. This book has so much more action than the previous two books which sounds like a good thing but it's really not. Everything that could possibly happen happens one after another and I felt a bit tired trying to catch up with the storyline. And with everything going on, the main characters hardly had time for each other and this was most unfortunate.

I thought about it for a while and decided that I'm still going to go with a decent rating for this one because I did still enjoy the story and I look forward to what is to come.

I received an ARC from Bella Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Della B · Rating 3 out of 5]

The head of the Castle family and empire has been gone for four years and the family business has taken a hard hit by the global economic downturn. Alex Castle is giving everything she has to sustain the business with very little left to give her partner Tyler. Alex does not need another thing on her plate to handle. Old secrets surface to haunt the Castle siblings in the most public of forums and their livelihoods fall into jeopardy.

Miller is tying up all of the loose ends in this series ending novel. There is some reaching to accomplish this as in both cases of characters looking for their birth parents. In other places characters are in constant motion with questionable purpose. If I was to describe this novel in one word it would be “busy”.

In the end everyone is accounted for and happily walking into the sunset. I just wish the journey was more appealing to me.

I received a free advance review copy from Bella Books through NetGalley. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[MZ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. This is (I think) the last book in the Falling Castles series and this series is a guilty pleasure to me. In my previous reviews I already mentioned how this series resembles a soap opera and this book is no different. In fact, it seems to multiply on the drama. This book is so over the top with rich and powerful characters, family drama, intrigue and backstabbing, it’s highly entertaining.

Don’t even try to read this if you haven’t read the other books in this series. Better yet, read this series back-to-back if you can. Why? In the course of the series, you’ll be introduced to a large cast of characters and in this book they all play a role and they all have their own storyline with a substantial amount of drama. Lynn Miller does give short summaries on all the backstories, but I found it still hard to remember details after such a long time and it took me a while to get back in the flow. As I have come to expect the writing was engaging and I appreciated that all storylines were consistent (as far as I could remember) which is not the easiest task, and of course there were a couple of new surprises. I have to mention though, there is so much going on at such a high pace, I would have liked a breather from time to time. The contents of this book might have almost been enough for two books and some of the storylines could have benefitted from a slower pace and more depth, especially considering some of the difficult topics that are touched upon. That said, I’ll pick a book with a lot happening over a simple storyline any time and I enjoyed reading more about Alex and Tyler and their extended family.

Those that have already started the series know what to expect. For those that haven’t, but like that soap opera feeling, this could be the series you’re looking for. This third book in the series was a bit much, so it wasn’t my favorite in the series, but I still had a lot of fun reading it.

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Sam · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book three in the Falling Castles trilogy (at least I think it’s a trilogy). You need to read the other books in the series to make sense of this one, if there is making any sense at all of this story.

As with the previous instalments of this series you drop right into it. There are lots of moving parts, lots of storylines a soooo many characters. When the book started I thought it would have one clear storyline, that’s definitely how it seemed, but I was wrong. There is so much going on in this book, but at the same time I feel like nothing is happening at all. I guess because it’s so much, nothing gets enough attention to be like a full bodied story.
I didn’t like that Tyler and Alex weren’t there for each other when major things happened, it’s always Tyler’s ex who is there. He’s no threat whatsoever and I like the character, it just doesn’t make sense for me.

I struggled throughout this book to connect with it, many things were just too simplistic (Andrew’s storyline comes to mind) and I don’t like that. I’m not saying I was expecting this to be next classic, but it was just so bland for me. This series is not easy to read because of some of the serious topics it touches, but mostly it’s hard because there is so much going on at the same time. There is such a thing as too many characters and I think this book, this story really suffered from that.

2.5 stars - I do appreciate the flow and Miller’s apparent writing ease.

Please read other reviews as well

*ARC received from the publisher (Bella Books) through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

[Cherie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25⭐️

This story is part three of The Falling Castles trilogy. There are multiple story lines in this book that are continuations from the previous two books. Which in many ways reminded me of a soap opera. The book jumps from one story line to another and includes many flash backs to explain the history of what is currently happening.

MCs Alex and Tyler are the center of the books and every story line revolves around their pasts. I would have liked more of this book to focus on their feelings and emotions. However that doesn’t seem to be Miller’s writing style. She tells a very good story but doesn’t put as much emotion into it as I would like.

Many plot lines are too simplistic for me. Especially Andrew’s transformation, it was too quick and easy to be believable.

Arc received from Net Galley for an honest and voluntary review.

[Jo reece · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely brilliant. The whole series has kept me engaged, and on my toes and hooked me in. Great storyline, fantastic characters throughout the book, gripping suspense storyline, can not fault this author at all.

Can not wait to see future releases by Stacy Lynn Miller

5 out of 5

[Aleana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.

After the events from last book Alex is trying everything to try save her family business after global economic downturn but in the process she neglected her relationship with Tyler who is also going through things. As they try to get their relationship back on track more secrets comes to light that throws them into more of tailspin. I won’t get into because I tend reveal more let’s say the criminals who tries do them harm does gets their comeuppance although I still think it’s has too many stuff going on and though they came out stronger it’s just I do wish they were together more when big moments happened not just Tyler ex Ethan who I like and I know isn’t a threat to them romantically but I felt Alex should’ve been there then him but I love how supportive he is. Overall love the series. I can’t wait to read what the writer writes next.

[Kaye · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third in the Falling Castles series and I strongly recommend you read the books in order. This picks up the story four years after the last book and jumps into the characters without much refreshing of connections or history. Alex is running the Castle hotel empire and which has been hard hit by the global economy. (My first thought was Covid but the present day time period of the story is 2011.) Alex is working non-stop keeping things afloat but she is missing out on being with her partner Tyler and her two daughters. A media attack on Alex happens at the same time as someone is sabotaging her sister's wines. It all coincides with her their brothers release from prison. To say there is a lot going on is an understatement.

The story jumps from one crisis to another. And doesn’t allow for much emotional connection to any singular part of the storyline. It makes for a rollicking, fast paced story but when you sit back there are so many times you wonder at the choices being made. Anytime something big is going on with Tyler her ex husband is her go to person not Alex. He is happily re-married but Alex is always showing up after the fact. A big reveal and emotional crisis happens with daughter Bree and it’s all resolved in a short time period. She makes a very grown up decision but I wouldn’t have allowed a 16 year old to decide something that big without a few years of therapy or family counseling. There was no need to rush to do anything. It felt like the author wanted a lot of things to happen and get tied up in a neat little bow but it isn’t emotionally fulfilling.

Minor spoilers, skip this paragraph if you don’t want to know. It doesn't seem realistic to me that Alex would give up everything she has wanted and worked for her entire life. I could see her delegating more and working with her siblings for better life balance but her 180 turn didn’t fit her character. It is especially hard as the siblings aren’t 100 percent trusting of each other yet. One or two actions doesn’t fix years of rivalry. And Alex's driving feeling of I’m responsible for 1000s of people jobs seemingly flies out the window. Alex also in my mind hasn’t earned the trust of her step daughters. Finding out she funded the oldest's scholarship doesn’t take away the fact that both her parents have ended up in the hospital because of the craziness surrounding Alex. Money doesn’t equate to relationship building, love or trust. Isn’t that the lesson she learned from her dealing with her dad?

If the series is done, it is wrapped up nicely. But I could have said that after the second book. If the series continues I will want to read it to see what mayhem is heading towards these characters. Thank you to NetGalley and Bella Books for the ARC in exchange for a voluntary review. (3.5 Stars)

[Fran Sappharc · Rating 3 out of 5]

The romance, as a continuing relationship, faced a bit of jeopardy from outside influences but no real tension. It was however refreshing to read a romance that seemed real, too much work, conflicting priorities and not silly misunderstandings. However I wasn't particularly gripped by the romance aspect and to be honest waded trough the first half. The second half however gripped me with the blend plot. I read this as a stand alone (It’s book 3 in a series, I presume some of the secondary couples were the main focus of the other books) and did find who was who and what relationship a bit overwhelming however the author did give reminders so I don't think it affected my enjoyment of the story bar the overwhelmed feeling. It was a bit like getting introduced to loads of people at a party and trying to remember who was who and what to everyone else. 3.5; 4 for the second half blend plot, 2.5 for the romance.

[Cheryl · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love this author but I had a difficult time with this book. The first half was a real uphill climb with problem after problem. I just assumed after the half way point we would get relief on the downside but noooo, it just kept going. Every time I thought all was well now, something else bad would happen.
It was interesting but not a pleasant read.
I'm guessing this is the last of the Castle saga....I cant think of anything else possibly happening to them.
But I will look forward to the next Miller story.
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Alice M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been waiting for this book, having read the two previous books in the series. When I started reading it I was a bit disappointed as it did not seem to concentrate on Alex and Tyler but someone trying to do them harm. It dotted about a bit and I wasn’t sure if I’d like it the way it seemed to be going. I actually left it and read another book. I felt I should persevere as I do like this author’s work so went back to it later and carried on reading. I’m glad I did. The first few chapters were just setting the scene for what was going to happen. As I got further in to the story my attention was held and I was keen to find out what would happen next. There were also a couple of bits where I thought “duh, why didn’t I guess that!” Yes, well worth the read. Good finale to a trilogy. (It is a trilogy, right? Although I would definitely read a further instalment!)

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amid Secrets, the third novel in the ‘Falling Castles Series’ is definitely a tale filled with suspense, multiple dilemmas, and lots of twists and turns in the plot. Just about everyone we have met in the first two books of this series ends up in some sort of crisis or life changing event. In other words, this is another exceptional mystery, intrigue and romantic thriller by Stacy Lynn Miller.

The story begins about four years after William Castle’s death. Alex Castle and Tyler Falling have been life partners for all of that time. The world economy crashed during these years, and Alex, especially, had to spend most of her time trying to keep the Castle Resorts open. Just when things are beginning to look better for their companies and their strained relationship, certain long held dark secrets involving an affair, rape, adoption, and abandonment begin to come out in public. Someone inside the Castle family circle wants to hurt Alex and all the people she loves.

This book truly is a wild ride from the first page to the last very satisfying paragraph. The action is constant, and the bad guys are numerous and cagey. Alex and Tyler’s love story take a few hits in this tale, but we do get to see just how they react to the forces trying to hurt them. We also get to see some of the other couples that we’ve met and grew to love in the first two books.

This is not a standalone novel. You need to read all three books in order to understand what’s going on. All three books are great reads so this shouldn’t be a problem.

If you love your romances peppered with intrigue, dark secrets, and “on the edge of your seat” excitement, then this book and this series is perfect for you.

I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books for an honest review.

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third novel in this series and I'm getting the impression that it will be the last in this series which is a shame if it is because I've so enjoyed these books and especially the characters. Actually, now that I've finished the book and Tyler mentioned in the last couple pages about maybe having a baby of their own- Tyler and Alex, I'm thinking and hoping that there will be at least one more book. There was so much packed into this novel. I really don't know where to begin. Let's just say that there are happy moments, new discoveries, and some heart wrenching moments. I feel like I've been put through the wringer! But of course this is primarily a romance so we get our happy ending and it's a good one. So buckle up and take the ride!--it's a fantastic, intriguing and emotional one. I definitely recommend this book and the two that came before it. I do suggest that you read them in order to get the best understanding of the whole series (so far? Maybe?). I give it 4 ½ stars.

[Kennedy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have truly enjoyed this series mainly because of the focus on friendship and family. Alex and Tyler have encountered many personal and professional challenges that caused them to drop to their knees as well as shed many tears. Their ability to lean on each other as well as friends and family proved to lift them up and navigate a way out and forward. This series has been a guilty pleasure and keeps on giving. In this read, various family members deal with drama, uncertainty, loss and disappointment which in my opinion, provides for an entertaining read. There are quite a few stories going on with various characters which can be confusing but close attention can make the difference.

ARC provided by Bella Books via NetGalley

[Bee Sherrard · Rating 4 out of 5]

If any of you started reading this series from the first you will be happy to know this book is everything you would want it to be. This story is simple, an evil man along with his wife become parents to twins. Their mother died when they were only five years old, and as they grew older their father kept them always competing for his attention. It's how we first meet them and really nothing has changed, Alex and Andrew are still fighting but now the stakes are much higher. The story involves partners, family friends, some you will know but there are a few surprises.
Great story. Very, very enjoyable read.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bella Books

[Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third in the Falling Castle series and I enjoyed it very much. I felt the author did a great job with this one. The only drawback for me was the fact that Tylers husband seems to be her go to person instead of Alex and the situation with Bree just didn't sit well with me. Regardless, this doesn't take away from the story. It's a well written book with a bit of action and some very loveable as well as some devious characters. I recommend grabbing a copy you won't be disappointed. 4 stars.

Thank you, Bella Books, and NetGalley for this ARC.

[Gorgianna Bird · Rating 5 out of 5]

what an amazing

Series, this could not have been any better. The love these two woman have and absolute drama and still have more love at the end. Gave shivers down my spine on every word.

[SUTTON (Kade) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The end of a lovely trilogy without a lot of relationship drama between the two main characters but plenty with exes and family and careers. It is a trilogy that doesn’t seem redundant. Sweet. Sincere. Kind.

[Bella · Rating 3 out of 5]

There were loose ends that got tied up nicely and carefully, but there were some that got quickly explained and seemed rushed.
Overall a good read to conclude the series and our main characters finally have a break from all the chaos. 3.5/5

Edit: There was one thing that kept bugging me - the birth certificate. Why would it list the father as unknown when Tyler was still married then? Regardless of what happened, shouldn't her husband back then be listed as the father of her second kid? That whole thing just to end Tyler's trauma plot line and it felt unnecessary and made the book busy.