THE SECRETS WE ESCAPE - Sherelle Green
Once Upon A Murder (Book #1)
Coffee'd Pink Creative
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Cheryl McNeil (A)
ROMANTIC SUSPENSE

REVIEW: USA Today bestselling author Sherelle Green, along with Angela Seals, Sheryl Lister and Elle Wright are back again with their popular “Once Upon a…” collaboration, which is darker than prior books. THE SECRETS WE ESCAPE by Sherelle Green features Sinceer Crowne, brother of Honey Crowne from the fan favorite Crowne family. As the book opens, we realize that Sinceer is different than others. He was trained in the Crowne business, but also spent time growing up in Black River Falls, South Carolina. He has a successful restaurant and was recently released from prison after being cleared of a murder he didn’t commit. We learn that his ex-wife is diabolical and had control over him for years while he did her dirty work.
While in prison, Sinceer developed a crush on his psychiatrist, Dr. Echo Hayes. She was a “beacon of light” in his dark world. He loved her natural beauty, among other things, and didn’t know how to act in her presence. It is hard to imagine a 6’ 8” “hard” dude tripping over himself, but that’s exactly what happens. Echo grew up with loving parents and had two best friends. She experiences a tragic loss which inspires her to become a psychiatrist. She has to come to terms with not being able to save everyone. She is drawn to Sinceer but remains professional. Eventually Sinceer goes from shy to commanding once he realizes Echo feels the same way. She is attracted to his dark caramel skin, chiseled jaw line and braids. The book cover art provides the perfect visual!
Amid this brewing attraction and explosive physical connection between Sinceer and Echo, there is a dark story line involving Sinceer’s ex-wife’s disappearance, as well as Sinceer’s inner battles. Things aren’t always what they seem in his life. Echo helps Sinceer heal and gain clarity regarding things he experienced. He is at times vulnerable yet dominating, and she is there for it all. She refers to him as ‘beautifully broken’. They have a deeper connection than they originally realized, and we discover that Echo has secrets of her own.
THE SECRETS WE ESCAPE is about restoration and true love. I enjoyed how Ms. Green explores the romance between Sinceer and Echo, while including elements of suspense. There was also a focus on the important topic of mental health. Key members of the Crowne family made an appearance, and we see how Duchess continues to orchestrate things. Book #1 of the Once Upon a Murder Series did not disappoint. I highly recommend it and look forward to continuing with the series.
1st August 2024 | romcol@gmail.com
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