Seductive Secrecy

Shadows #2

by Marni Mann

The mansion was gone.
My nightmare was over.
From the ashes of Cee, I became Charlie again—with him.
We are two broken souls who have found peace in each other’s arms. We paint a brighter future that’s filled with art and life and love. The seduction of our shadowed pasts pulls at us, but as long as we are together, light will triumph.
Cameron brought the sun to me, and for that, I can never repay him.
But, when my past and present collide, he might never be able to forgive me.
Some debts can only be paid in pain.

Genres: BDSM, Dark, Erotica, Erotic Romance, Contemporary Romance, Romance, Adult

248 pages, Paperback

First published October 24, 2013

About the author

USA Today Bestselling author Marni Mann knew she was going to be a writer since middle school. While other girls her age were daydreaming about teenage pop stars, Marni was fantasizing about penning her first novel. She crafts sexy, titillating stories that weave together her love of darkness, mystery, passion, and human emotions. A New Englander at heart, she now lives in Sarasota, Florida, with her husband and their Yellow Lab. When she’s not nose deep in her laptop, working on her next novel, she’s scouring for chocolate, sipping wine, traveling, or devouring fabulous books.

Visit her at:
WEBSITE: www.MarniSMann.com
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/MarniMannAuthor
INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/marnimann/
NEWSLETTER: http://marnismann.com/e-mail-signup/

Reviews

[Kelli C · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Seductive Stars!

This review is sort of a combination as I read book 1 and 2 in a box set!

I will start with saying book 1 will suck you in and leave you a bit turned on and a whole lotta confused! Charlie is the heroine in this series and she is quite interesting. Her life has not been easy. She has a natural talent in the arts and her deepest passions and troubles bring her works much attention. She longs for more but cannot break away from the dark pleasures that overtake her, thus putting her into a world of hidden pleasure and mystery. Paid for giving into other's pleasures, Charlie uses the one thing she is good at...ecstasy. But her time at The Mansion is not all it seems to be.

I know that seems vague, but so is the story! It does not take long for Charlie to want more than the life as a paid "whore." New connections help her to realize she deserved more. Life seems to be opening up and light begins to find its way into Charlie as she is beginning to realize the love of a man equally as damaged as her. Cameron has opened up her gift and made her question her life choices. Book 2 is the conclusion to all the mystery and the final path for Charlie to start a new life.

So with this new life...friends...family...Charlie begins to heal. At the heart of the story is many revelations into the life Charlie knew as a child and the present colliding with the her time at the mansion. While I was constantly waiting for the "bad" to happen, I was bit let down that the revelations were kinda meh'. With the huge build up and the suspense, Charlie and Cameron's story together took a 180 into just "finding a new life together."

Overall, this read was steamy. It was quite angst filled. I had hoped for more in book 2, but I still enjoyed the story no less!

[Donna ~ The Romance Cover · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seductive Secrecy by Marni Mann

5 stars!!

“Where There Is Love There Is No Darkness”

And I thought Seductive Shadows was good…well Seductive Secrecy is soooo much more! I cannot say how well written this book is, I was hanging on every word, I felt every word, I lived and breathed every word, full of emotion, full of angst, I could not put this book down. Although this book is powerful and emotive it is beautifully written and you cannot help but be sucked into the emotional vortex hidden inside this book cover.

This book picks up where Seductive Shadows finished and Charlie is living the after effects of taking down “The Mansion” and those at the hands of the suffering of many girls just like her that had not been so lucky to escape. She pours herself into her art and this becomes an outlet for her inner turmoil. Her art is beginning to take off and she can actually begin to make a living out of it. Forever supported by her mentor and our own equally broken exceptional artist Cameron, Charlie spends her time creating dark and erotic master pieces that take the art world by storm.

Charlie and Cameron have moved in together and now begin the journey of finding themselves and cementing together the relationship that they have forged. This road is fraught with obstacles not only from the aftermath of the mansion but also jealousy. Both of them are suffering with insecurities and need to deal with them before they become a poison in the relationship. Will either or both of them realise this in time? In this book we are introduced to Cameron’s brother Ryder. Ryder is everything that Cameron isn’t but they are best friends and Cameron loves him unconditionally. This love though maybe put to the test when Ryder’s secrets are brought out into the open. Will these secrets also have any bearing on Cameron’s relationship with Charlie?

“All that mattered was that I wouldn’t give up on him. I didn’t want him to be the reason I cried, or a source of my pain. But the fact that I’d shed tears over this man told me everything I needed to know – and finally, I knew it. I loved him.”

We also continue the story of Charlie reconnecting with her father. They cannot be together for fear of reprisals from the take down of “The Mansion” so they are forced apart before they can really build a relationship. However, they do find means of communicating, but can their relationship stand the test of time before “The Mansion” comes back to haunt them and destroy it?

“Maybe I should stare at the sky more often. Maybe I should enjoy the night air instead of shielding myself from it. Rather than letting the never-ending blackness overwhelm me, maybe I should appreciate it for what it is: a background for the brilliance of stars. After all, without darkness, there can’t be light.”

I would love to go on about this book, but the storyline is so intricate that any small disclosures will ruin it for the reader so I have to keep this reluctantly brief. I highlighted so many lines and paragraphs from this book, but again too much will spoil it. So I will leave you to read it for yourself. As this is a sequel you must have read Seductive Shadows first.

I totally adore Marni Mann’s writing, she has that flair for totally captivating you with her words so that you can’t let go until you have read the last word. You may be an emotional wreck at the end of it, but you know that you have read something truly brilliant. It is one of those books that will leave you reeling, emotionally spent, with quite a few what the hell moments thrown in for good measure. You will find yourself reflecting back for days after, I know I did.

Once again, an amazing book Marni Mann, definitely an auto-buy author for me now. I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us next. Maybe Ryder should get a book, I feel that is one man that has an interesting story to tell and I for one wouldn’t mind reading about it.

“Because I don’t know what my life would be like without you. And I don’t want to find out.”

www.theromancecover.com

[TeriLyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

**I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review**

Seductive Secrecy is so good; you have to read this book. It's better than good, it's truly perfect. I had no idea what to expect plot-wise after the first book (Seductive Shadows) but I absolutely loved the journey the author took us on. Ms. Mann’s contrasts between light and dark, letting go and holding on are so interesting. Her writing is hauntingly dark yet brilliantly bright at the same time; it’s captivating.

Charlie and Cameron's growth from the ending of book one until now is exponential; Charlie especially. Her strength and fortitude is inspiring. The way she handles certain shocking twists in the plot is so real and honest. Charlie's honesty is what I admire most about her. Demons are still alive in Charlie no matter how much she tries to bury them. Her feelings about those demons and the darkness that will always be a part of her is so raw and revealing the truth about that darkness to Cameron, so real. Charlie has many beautiful moments of realization throughout this story. The introduction of a certain character in the story and the development of their short relationship is one of those beautiful moments. Through this self-discovery she begins to embrace the darkness that lies within her and finds ways to use it that suit her life with Cameron. Charlie’s self-discovery is continual throughout the story and her resolve is perpetually strengthening. Charlie is a great heroine; layered and complex. Her beauty, having been tainted by ugly for far too long, is memorizing and begging to shine.

Cameron Hardy, talk about layered and complex. He is so nuanced; specifically designed to expose Charlie’s beauty. Cameron's mysterious romance is my favorite part about him. His darkly romantic gestures are intriguing. The depth of his emotion and passion is limitless. Cameron innately recognizes how to help her evolve subsequently causing evolution within him. His vulnerability and brokenness is a huge part of his allure. His honesty, too, just gets to me. The ebb and flow of their relationship, the push and pull, are what makes them who they are together. They strengthen each other in very different ways; they make each other whole. Figuring all the other outside influences out is where their struggle happens because their connection is uncanny. As crazy and messed up as these two could actually be beyond what they are; they're crazy about each other and the honest, real feelings between them is the brightness in the their story. Cameron is a true hero to me. He’s beautifully broken and exquisitely passionate. He accepts Charlie exactly as she is and accepts that she helps him breathe.

The secondary characters, whether foe or friend, are important as well each weaved expertly throughout to further thicken the plot. The story is structured in such a way that each introduction of an outside character is vital, providing added layers of growth to both the hero and heroine.

I'm in awe of Ms. Mann’s brilliant writing. I feel privileged having had the opportunity to read an ARC of Seductive Secrecy. I commend her on creating this hauntingly beautiful, unforgettable story about love in light and in darkness. Through her words I became a part of Charlie’s dark world and was introduced to two phenomenal characters and had the honor to read their epic love story unfold both beautifully and painfully. Seductive Secrecy is so brilliantly written it will absorb you into their world and make it hard to believe you’re not actually living in it. Everyone who likes dark erotic romance should read this series, you won’t regret it, Marni Mann makes sure of that.

[Reanell Tisdale · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review to come

I really enjoyed Seductive Shadows(book 1), but I devoured this one! Marni really upped her game in book 2. There was some twists and turns that had me lifting my jaw off the floor. If an author can make my heart beat faster in anticipation and hurt when the characters hurt, that author is doing a fantastic job. That is exactly what happened with Seductive Secrecy.

The story picks up where Seductive Shadows leaves off, except without all the details from the trial, but to me that's a good thing. Marni gives us the details we need as the story progresses. I was all tangled up with my emotions while reading this book, I cried at some parts, poor Charlie and her past come creeping up on her and Cameron. And it's a hell of a twist let me tell ya! I DID NOT see that one coming at all.

"Where there is love, there is no darkness."

Something that intrigued me in the story was how much Cameron loved "eating" Charlie. I think this happens about 20 times in the story. He couldn't get enough from "down there". But she managed to keep it fresh and not repetitive. The sex is actually pretty damn hot!!

I give the highest rating possible for this story, and how well Marni let the story play out. 5 beautiful stars! Keep it coming Marni and I'll keep reading!

[Tamara Hook Me Up Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where There Is Love There Is No Darkness

Oh my goodness... I loved this book. It captivated me while it slowly revealed itself, the words doing a magical dance; weaving and threading meaning, themes and emotions together to create a beautiful story of hope, love and acceptance.

I think I am in love with Marni Mann - I am certainly in love with her storytelling ability. Her writing style is one I don't find often but when I do find it, I am like a giddy lovestruck teenager. I can't get enough and I race to the end, ignoring nearly everything else in my life while I devour the story, the words. Let me say that again - THE WORDS. I am a word person - I just love them. And when an author can bring the right words together to paint a story for you to visualise, to sense, to FEEL, like Marni can - I am in heaven. I adored her choice and use of words in this book. Some authors rely heavily on phrases like "I felt..." to get the story across. Others, like Marni, convey what the character is feeling by describing it in their own unique style, by showing you and letting you feel and sense it for yourself.

Now, this is the second book in this series (and I am fairly sure from the ending that it will be the last). If you haven't read the first book, I have written a review for it. I loved it also. See my review for the first book - Here

I wasn't sure how Marni was going to pull this second book off in a way that I would enjoy, but I should have had more trust in her. Because she did it perfectly, and even better than I could have ever imagined. I was hoping that the mansion and the fall out from that would not feature heavily in this book because that, to me, would just be too dark a book. I was so pleased with where she chose to take this book instead. And I was happy with the way she tied up all the loose ends with regards to the mansion - I got the answers I needed.

Would I ever feel good enough as I was, without any mask at all?

This story was about Charlie's journey to find herself under the layers she had built to protect herself from the harshness of the life she had lived. Removing the mask from the mansion was just the first step. Now she had to get to a place of self acceptance and love. She also had to find a way to work Cameron into her life, into her heart.

Her mother and Cee kept popping up, messing with her confidence and ability to move forward. I thought Marni's use of her mother throughout the book was extremely clever, revealing the point at which Charlie was finally starting to believe in herself.

I also loved the art in this book. Marni must be an artist herself because the way she blended the art with the story was perfect.

"We were two broken souls who had found each other in a world of shadows. We were held together by a connection of secrets, dark and fearful and reluctant to leave. They recoiled whenever light reached them. Their depth was seductive and overwhelming, an endless ocean of black that threatened to cover the brilliance we kept reaching for with each other. But it wasn't the only color on our palette. Maybe it was time to explore a different hue."

Cameron was a great character. It's been awhile since I read the first book but I don't recall that we got to know him that well in that story. We do in this one and he is the perfect character to be with Charlie, to help her find the love she has been missing in her life. He has also had a tough life, so together they lift each other into the light.

"Yes...I want to be happy," I answered.
He tipped his head. "Then be happy. You know how to get there; you just have to let go of the fear of being there."

I can't recommend this series enough to you. For me, it was the perfect blend of darkness, love, friendship, searching for the light and a journey to self love and acceptance. All wrapped up in those beautiful words and descriptions that Marni is so good at writing.

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[✿kawehi.reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

The good: A brilliant and complex read! Ms. Mann creates a well conceived plot where it’s emotionally gripping and appealing; AND, and instigates an environment where the characters go through an immense amount of growth and transition! I was literally at the edge of my seat while reading this which is very rare for me!

The bad: I wouldn’t say this is bad, but at times, it was a bit overwhelming that I had to put down the book so be warned!

My thoughts:
Marni Mann definitely puts on her A-game face in “Seductive Shadows”. It begins right after where its predecessor, “Seductive Shadows,” left off. After learning the harrowing secrets behind the mansion and instigating a take-down for those responsible, Charlie and Cameron are carefully trying to rebuild a life away from the chaos… or so they think…

Both battling their own personal demons, Charlie and Cameron face even more daunting struggles and trials in this follow up novel. Each character desperately seeks normalcy and stability but with all factors put against them it’s hard to see the light amidst all the darkness.

” We were two broken souls who had found each other in a world of shadows. We were held together by a connection of secrets, dark and fearful and reluctant to leave. They recoiled whenever light reached them. Their depth was seductive and overwhelming, an endless ocean of black that threatened to cover the brilliance we kept reaching for with each other.”

I was deeply entranced and infatuated by how Ms. Mann made it prominent for the characters to learn how to embrace the darkness in order to appreciate the light. In other words, you cannot value the good unless you know and/or gone through the bad.

Charlie and Cameron learn this lesson in spades and it was intriguing to see them do so!


SO, my verdict:

I highly recommend to all of my friends!! Marni Mann definitely creates a book of gold filled with angst, secrets, and a formidable love in the throes of obscurity and darkness.

Gosh, I am so very, very impressed!! An absolute must read!


“Maybe I should gaze at the sky more often. Maybe I should enjoy the night air instead of sheltering myself from it from. Rather than letting the never--‐‑ending blackness overwhelm me, maybe I should appreciate it for what it is: a background for the brilliance of stars. After all, without darkness, there cannot be light.”

[Tee loves Kyle Jacobson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy Mother of God I do not know where to start on this review...... I mean my head and my heart went on two different trips because I just could not get enough of this story. Lord have mercy me I mean I went from hating to loving to screaming at my kindle. Marni has crafted and created a world where I could not get enough of. Poor Charlie lord everything she went through is enough to break a person but she is determined to get her life back on track.

Charlie and Cameron have both been through some things that have made them hard towards the world but through it all they can see the light through each others eyes. They know they have a long road ahead of them but Charlie is painting again and she has a great job and she is excited to be sharing her life with Cameron. Cameron knows he loves Charlie and will do anything to keep her safe and protect her from the horrors she faced and escaped from. Their love is overwhelming and all consuming but they Cameron wants and needs Charlie in his life.

The only person standing in his way of happiness is his brother Ryder. Ryder has a link to Charlie from her past and Cameron wants to be her future but what happens when the past refuses to stay the past and soon comes face to face with the future? Will Ryder be the one to take care of Charlie or will Ryan stay her constant in this sea of waves?

Man Marni you blew me away with this one and I could not put it down. I need to re-read it after I re-read book one to enjoy Charlie and Cameron again and again.......

[[~Ami~]♥Sexy Dexy♥]

This sequel continues with Charlie and Cameron. The first half of the book was steamy and sexy but there just wasn't enough storyline for me. When the second half kicked in with a revelation... Hmm!!! I got so mad that she put herself in this situation to begin with, I couldn't carry on.

I wasn't feeling the connection with the main couple. There was angst in the second half and normally I'm ok with that considering the hero is likeable.. But he wasn't to me and he still hasn't stood out as the hero.

It didnt work for me, but it might work for you if you enjoy a steamy book with angst.

ARC provided by the Author

[Gillian (Tattooed Book Review) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review and more at www.TattooedBookReview.com!

“What if Cee was really the soul of me, and Charlie was just another mask I wore?”

This book is one that have been anxiously waiting to read from the moment I knew that it would exist; and I’m absolutely ecstatic to say that it did not disappoint. The reader gets to see in to Charlie’s soul as she struggles with her new life after the mansion. She no longer feels the weight of poverty and abuse and has an amazing man in her life: a man whose dark past and bright future rivals her own. The story is deliciously dark, gritty, and sexy; intense emotions, both ecstasy and despair, mesh perfectly with a suspenseful and engaging story. The plot itself, with its twists and surprises, is compelling enough. But, what makes this book truly special is the artistic style to Mann’s writing: scenes described with a sensual artistic quality using beautifully realized colors, textures, and details.

I was impressed with how much Charlie's character has grown. She is stronger and braver, she still struggles, but is trying to come to terms with her demons, to find comfort, stability and love. But this story is not only about Charlie. It’s also about the people around her and the relationships she is forging. Now that she is not simply surviving, but actually living, she is connecting with people on more than just a sexual level. She is forced reconcile these new found connections with her past and her future, and moving forward will not be easy.

We are introduced to a whole new cast of well-realized secondary characters. I truly enjoyed getting to know new angels and enemies, and witnessing new stories of darkness and light, of tragedy and triumph. Especially Cameron; He is my perfect broken hero. Gorgeous and damaged and sexually insatiable, his connection with Charlie is undeniable and I loved seeing the evolution of their relationship, in spite of nearly insurmountable obstacles.

“I tilted my head, looking in to the crystal clarity that stared back at me. The only thing cold about him was the blue of his eyes. Everything about Cameron spoke of his warmth. ‘Do you think I’m crazy?’

‘No,’ I said as I shook my head. ‘I think you’re wonderful.’ “

I must admit, I am such an enormous fan of Seductive Shadows that it would be nearly impossible to top that book for me. I highly recommend reading it first; the background is necessary to fully enjoy this book (and it’s an AMAZING read!!). Seductive Secrecy is it’s own story, though. We have a new Charlie, with glimpses of Cee, but this Charlie is more accessible and I feel that this book has a more relatable quality. It is heartbreaking and intense, but the pinpoints of light are just a bit brighter in this installment. These books, with their perfect combination of romance, sex, suspense, devastating darkness, and brilliant hope have captured my heart and soul.

“Maybe I should stare at the sky more often. Maybe I should enjoy the night air instead of shielding myself from it. Rather than letting the the never-ending blackness overwhelm me, maybe I should appreciate it for what it is; a background for the brilliance of stars. After all, without darkness there can’t be light.”

*I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Cat Imb || The Reading Cat || · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Just wow. It was raw, emotional, carnal and I loved every single word of it. This is the kind of book that rips your heart open and leaves you wanting more. The characters were spectacular. Everything was just so REAL. Nothing was sugar-coated and embellished to make it a light read. It was anything but and I thank the author for it. For me, it was one of those books (duology in this case) that changed me after reading them. It wasn't a basic book about that "cookie-cutter" love story. (We all know those books I'm talking about; and don't get me wrong, I enjoy those, but not as much as this one.

[Gitte TotallyBookedBlog · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Raw and Emotional Stars

Now, this is book two in the Shadows series and must be read in order and though I really enjoyed book #1 – Seductive Shadows; I had my reservations. Well, any lingering reservations were soon shot to bits as soon as I re-joined Charlie and Cameron. I was blown away and seriously loved every minute reading this sequel. It had such emotional depth and the raw sensuality drew me into a dark, eerie and chilling romance that had so much pain, fear and anxiety at its very core.

“..I don’t know what my life would be like without you. And I don’t want to find out.” – Cameron

The word dark is bandied around describing the content and setting of the story. However, in this case not only does it portray a dark thrilling and intense mood; the Author perfectly manages to place darkness inside the reader to the level of feeling absolutely everything our characters go through both physically, mentally and emotionally. I was shrouded in darkness and I felt this overwhelming sadness whilst reading interrupted by timely moments of hope and passion.

‘We were two broken souls who had found each other in a world of shadows. We were held together by a connection of secrets, dark and fearful and reluctant to leave. They recoiled whenever light reached them. Their depth was seductive and overwhelming, and endless ocean of black that threatened to cover the brilliance we kept reaching for with each other.’

The writing was intensely sensual and beautiful. Like I said in my last review Marni Mann’s writing is extremely artistic; I would say its equivalent of an artist’s expressive, confident and colourful brush strokes across a naked canvas. Every word counted and hit that raw and exposed part of the heart that feels every nuance and deliberate intention. It was astounding and compelling throughout.

“Because light is defined by the darkness it illuminates.”

The journey of Charlie and Cameron’s relationship and the tying up of loose ends were complex, extremely seductive and harrowing. I could not put my kindle down as I was immersed in this highly emotionally charged sequel. I applaud Marni Mann for sweeping me up and through her flawless writing, taking me into a dark and chilling part of the art world where secrets are exposed as one soul mate heals the other, weighed down by self-imposed restrictions and feelings of guilt. The passion and the artistic healing is plentiful; the road to recovery and self-realisation fraught with despair yet also seduction, beauty and empathy. I re-connected fully with these two broken characters struggling to become who they were meant to be individually and together after struggling for so long whilst throwing a couple of twists in there too that I did not see coming.

‘I stood at the edge of the canvas, our bodies glowing under the light. The mix of brightness in the relative darkness was almost blinding.’ – Charlie

I struggled in book #1 with Charlie’s character at times. She was an extremely sexual being who made decisions that boggled the mind at times. However, in this instalment this artistically gifted girl really came into her own. Her struggles were believable, her maturity and growth inspiring.

‘Maybe I’ll never be free of that house of horrors. It was my choice to enter; it was my choice to destroy it as well, and I accept whatever comes to me as a result.’ – Charlie

As for Cameron…sigh. This man is amazing. He’s had such a traumatic past and a broken but not yet irreparable soul that not only heals Charlie in the most magnificent way but in return is healed as well.

‘Cameron…my dawn. He had broken through the darkness – my darkness- and pulled me from its depths.’ – Charlie

Their story is not only tragic; it’s unbelievably beautiful and heart-rending. Some scenes were so inherently poignant and vivid that I involuntarily shivered from the eerie chills, felt myself heat up in their passion as well as felt the dark hopelessness of confusion at the size of obstacles thrown in their path.

“Sometimes I look at you and I’m amazed that you’re mine.” – Cameron

So, I did not want to talk about the story too much as if you haven’t read book #1 Seductive Shadows, my review will completely spoil the crux of the story. Instead I wanted to go for how I felt about the characters and their journey as a whole. The only reason for why this is not a 5 star read boils down to one revelation which in itself just didn’t sit right with me. I felt it was too unbelievable and handled with too much acceptance and understanding after everything that had happened, as well as the relationship of the main people involved. That’s as far as I will go on that one though and is my personal opinion.

Overall, I highly recommend this series, which in my opinion, takes a storyline from a well-trodden path to a new level of originality and uniqueness through the quality and the artistic flair of its Author. Marni Mann; I salute you!!!

*ARC received for honest review*

Reviewed for: http://totallybookedblog.com/
Come say Hi on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Totall...

[Lucinda Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review – Seductive Secrecy

I became addicted to Charlie and Cameron through Marni Mann’s adept storytelling when I had the opportunity to read Book 1 in her "Shadows" series several months ago. However, as eager as I was to read more from this exceptional author – I mentioned that I LOVE the way she writes, didn’t I? -- I honestly was a bit skeptical about where she could take the characters in Book 2 that would continue their journey, and not merely re-tell the story. When I said that Marni Mann “seduced,” me with "Seductive Shadows," that was nothing; she absolutely mesmerized and shattered me with "Seductive Secrecy."

"Secrecy" picks up approximately six months after Shadows left off. However, we don’t miss a thing, because the author uses Charlie’s musings to carefully and meticulously fill in the gaps. This is a good place to mention that if you haven’t yet read Book 1, it’s an absolute MUST before you venture any further into the "Shadows" journey. It’s a skillful author who can write a sequel that reminds the reader about the previous book without it seeming like repetition. Marni Mann accomplishes that task perfectly.

Six months ago, Charlie made a courageous decision that threatened both her safety as well as that of her father. But for Charlie, it was not only her physical well-being that was in jeopardy; she was also risking her heart, and it would take every ounce of courage she could muster to admit her proclivities to Cameron, and chance his disgust and rejection. Cameron, however, has his own scars – the emotional as well as the physical.

"Seductive Secrecy" is a testament to the saying that life is ten percent what happens to you, and 90% how you react to it. Charlie is who she is because of what she’s been through. Hers is an inner struggle with the memories of her childhood – years of neglect and caring for an ailing mother who, even on her death bed, could not bring herself to tell her daughter she loved her. Her mother’s words cut deep, and even when happiness seems to be within her reach, those words continue to try to convince her that she doesn’t deserve to be happy. After nearly everyone in their respective lives had disappointed, rejected or abandoned them, Charlie and Cameron must to risk the one thing neither thinks they have to give: trust, in order to find the one thing both of them lack: love. Can sharing their painful secrets with each other be enough to bring them into the light?

“We were two broken souls who had found each other in a world of shadows. We were held together by a connection of secrets, dark and fearful and reluctant to leave. They recoiled whenever light reached them. Their depth was seductive and overwhelming, an endless ocean of black that threatened to cover the brilliance we kept reaching for with each other.”

Cameron is … just … well, hell … “sexy” doesn’t quite cover it really. He is far and away one of the most erotic and sensual male characters I’ve read. Cameron is not what I would particularly call alpha; although he certainly takes control where it counts – in the bedroom, and that’s exactly what Charlie needs. When it comes to the steamy stuff, I still contend that Marni Mann creates some of the most imaginative, erogenous, provocative scenes I have ever read in this genre. You are gonna want to have something handy to put out the flames, because believe me, Cameron’s artistic abilities clearly transcend his studio!

"Seductive Secrecy" has everything I want in an erotic romance AND THEN SOME. The characters are authentic. The emotion is raw and real, and I read it with tears streaming down my face. There are plot twists I totally didn’t anticipate, and moments that absolutely took my breath away. There were also those instances – many, in fact – where I simply put the book down trying to avoid the inevitable last page.

"Seductive Secrecy" earns five (plus five) seductive stars!

[RoloPoloBookBlog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seductive Secrecy by Marni Mann
(Book #2: Shadows Series)
Source: ARC from author
Rating: 5/5 stars

I have been sitting her staring at my blinking cursor for ten minutes trying to figure out some clever way of launching into this review. I give up on clever and am going with pure, unadulterated honesty: I LOVED this book and did not even come close to putting it down until I finished the entire thing. Yeah, it’s that good.

Secrecy doesn’t pick up right where Shadows ended but a short time afterward. Charlie and Camreon are living together, their respective careers and reputations are in ascent and though the memories of the mansion still linger, they have settled into a comfortable routine. For the most part. Charlie is finishing school, selling paintings at a record rate, taking new commissions on a regular basis and all her sexual needs are being met by Cameron. For the most part. Cameron is still fiercely committed to his work, still refuses to open up about his own past and is as darkly intense as he was in book one. Cameron cares for Charlie and assures her that their relationship is absolutely solid. For the most part.

While the threat the mansion once posed is no longer as real, it is still a presence in Charlie’s mind. Though most of the key players/leaders from the mansion are now on trial and no threat to Charlie, her father is off the grid and a large number of her former clients are still on the street. One of Charlie’s greatest fears is running into one of those men unexpectedly and though Cameron assures her he can accept her past and her role at the mansion, Charlie isn’t sure Cameron will be quite so accepting if he is ever face-to-face with one her former clients.

Though Cameron is absolutely confident he has accepted Charlie’s past, that confidence is destroyed the moment he comes face-to-face with one of her clients. Perhaps even more shattering for Cameron is the realization that he knows the man. True to form and in all his intense darkness, Cameron snaps the tether completely and ruins everything he and Charlie have built together. Mind you, this snap doesn’t happen until many agonizingly painful weeks after the stunning revelation. Though Cameron desperately wants Charlie in his life it is tremendously hard to move past knowing at least one of the men he has shared his lover with. Oh, and Cameron is a selfish douche bag!

As if the highly intense and emotionally draining personal drama isn’t enough, Charlie is also forced to come face-to-face with one of the key players from the mansion. Because one seriously awkward and damaging meet and greet just isn’t enough  Under the impression she is going to meet a new client, Charlie is blown away by the person who opens the door and in a stunning display of self-control, Charlie manages to hear out this person and not send them to a well-deserved death. This fantastic little twist adds a whole new dimension to Secrecy that actually turns into a sort of mini-plot with some astounding ramifications that left me reeling at the end!! Once again, Marni Mann takes the crown for bombshell dropping queen!!
The Bottom Line: To say I was pretty much blown away by Marni Mann’s Seductive Secrecy doesn’t even come close. Clearly Mann has never heard of the sophomore slump as Secrecy is 200+ pages of madness, emotional highs and desperate lows, some bat-shit crazy plot twists and naughty bits that will leave the entire frickin’ room steamy!! I have only one complaint about this read and all I can without giving too much away is I really, really, really wanted Charlie to make him work for it a little longer. Overall, Seductive Secrecy is a dark, twisted, engrossing, and totally sexy read that will not be put down until you reach the very last page!! You have been warned :)

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 out of 5 stars

I received an ARC copy of this story for an honest review for Amber's Reading Room.

Love and forgiveness are easy things to say but harder things to embrace. In “Seductive Secrecy” author Marni Mann brings back her damaged heroine Charlie and creates a haunting and powerful story of discovering that you can’t just believe in deserving happiness, you have to truly want to be happy too.

After exposing the treachery of the Mansion and initiating the take-down of those responsible for the disappearance and death of countless girls just like her in “Seductive Shadows,” Charlie is slowly and carefully building a new life. Charlie spends her days creating art. Her nights are spent wrapped in the arms of beautiful, gifted, and equally damaged artist Cameron.

“A little pain was always involved in our intimacy; it heightened my passion. But I knew this was more than him just giving me pleasure. He was reminding me that my body was his. I responded, arching my back, giving him full access to whatever he wanted to pleasure… or hurt.”

Nursing their own individual personal demons, Charlie and Cameron are forced to navigate unfamiliar roads in solidifying their relationship. Jealousy rears its ugly head and the looming threat of reprisal from the fall of the Mansion hangs heavy. Unexpectedly the greatest obstacle facing the fragile couple comes from the only other person Cameron loves, his brother Ryder. Ryder has a devastating connection to Charlie that may destroy not only the couple but also what little happiness each has ever known.

Gripping and emotional, this is one of those books I had to take a step back from after reading. A recurring theme in this book is that darkness is necessary to truly appreciate light; that you can’t value heaven unless you’ve known hell and Mann delivers some pitch black dark and vivid hell for her characters. “Seductive Secrecy” seamlessly moves from startling hot steaminess to heartbreaking angst to soulful intimacy and back again. This book hurt my heart and made me happy at the same time. I was thankful that for each hurt Charlie faced she developed the strength to grow and learn from it.

“All that mattered was that I wouldn’t give up on him. I didn’t want him to be the reason I cried, or a source of my pain. But the fact that I’d shed tears over this man told me everything I needed to know – and finally, I knew it. I loved him.”

There are so many lines from this book that are beautiful and vivid. I started my review with 20 quotes that I pulled while reading. One of my favorites:

“We were held together by a connection of secrets, dark and fearful and reluctant to leave. They recoiled whenever light reached them. Their depth was seductive and overwhelming, an endless ocean of black that threatened to cover the brilliance we kept reaching for with each other.”

“Seductive Secrecy” has solidified me as a long-term fan of Mann. The connection between Charlie and Cameron felt tangible throughout the entire story and their hard fought love gets a worthy resolution.

“Seductive Secrecy” is a sequel and should not be read as a stand-alone. Please do yourself a favor and if you haven’t already read “Seductive Shadows,” do so before jumping into “Seductive Secrecy.” Charlie’s journey in both novels is inspiring and it will make you happy you invested in both books.

Happy reading.

[Blushing Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Star Rating: 4.5 stars!

Heat Rating: HOT HOT!


*This is NOT a stand-alone book! If you haven't read Seductive Shadows (Shadows #1), please do so before reading this review or the book, you really don't wan't to spoil anything about this series!*

Marni Mann can write one hot, erotic, sensual book that dives into the darker side of things, creating a story that is so beautifully written that you are caught up in its whirlwind and taken for one hell of a ride!

Seductive Secrecy, took my breath away! I gobbled it up in one night and stayed up much later wishing I had more time with Charlie and Cameron. Seductive Shadows (book 1) was such a crazy-amazing book that took me on such an emotional journey that I was fearful of reading the sequel. I should have NEVER doubted Ms. Mann, she knows what she is doing and delivered one of the best sequels I have read in a long time!

Seductive Secrecy lets us get to know Charlie and Cameron. We get to get into their lives and see how they are making it as a couple and how they are dealing with life after the "mansion". I LOVED getting into Charlie's art more, seeing how she created and dealt with clients, it was great to see her gaining success in the art world after such a dark past. Cameron is still a bit of a mystery but we did get to see into his other relationships more during Seductive Secrecy, however, I am still holding out hope that we get one more book in this series that really dives into Cameron. Charlie and Cameron are two characters that I have come to love and I would love to continue reading about (I would not say no to a book about Dallas either)

Ugh! (no spoilers) I can't say more but WOW, your heart is going to shatter with some of the twists and surprising revelations in this book! Honestly, there was one point in the book that I gasped out loud and my heart stopped. Marni Mann, definitely has a way of getting you invested in her characters, you feel right along with them, their highs and the lows and makes you understand that sometimes you have to survive the dark to learn how to savor the light.

I HIGHLY recommend this series. It is dark, gritty, raw and just plain amazing. Your heart will be taken on quite the ride! Seductive Secrecy, surpassed my expectations (and they were high) and still managed to shock me with its twists and turns. Marni Mann is a writer that I will automatically buy, her words resonate and her stories will linger on your mind (and in your heart). Go grab Seductive Secrecy (and Seductive Shadows if you haven't read that either) get comfy and be prepared to get lost in this story about Charlie and Cameron!

[Rita L. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Attention, it might contain spoilers if you haven't read the first book of the Shadows duology.

In Seductive Secrecy we have the continuation of the struggles Charlie faced with the mansion aftermath. Her relashionship with Cameron is going strong, until an unexpected surprise from the passed puts their feelings to the test.
Besides this we have the opportunity to see her bond with her father, and how vulnerable she is to love.
Enjoyed this last book. It was slow until half way and after that I honestly had no idea how the author was going to solve some of the situations. My biggest problem was that I couldn't connect with Charlie, at all. She's to different from me.

3 stars - liked it, but it wasn't memorable

[Submit & Devour · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!! There is something so dark and sad, and almost a little hypnotic about Seductive Secrecy. It picks up about 6 months after Seductive Shadows and it finds Charlie and Cameron trying to establish a normal relationship and Charlie attempting to put her past behind her.

Marni Mann puts your emotions through the wringer. The plot is amazing and unlike so many other erotic stories it isn't just the sex...(don't misunderstand the sex in the book amazing and well written but) the chemistry between Charlie and Cameron is so sexy and erotic.

*arc was provided for an honest review

[Autumn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marni has done it again - Brilliantly dark, layered and atmospheric!

Full review on Martini Times on 11/1 during the Seductive Secrecy Blog Tour...

http://www.martinitimes.com/1/post/20...

[Anncleire · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite book of the year!!!!

Blog Tour on my blog November 2th
Review + Except
http://pleaseanotherbook.tumblr.com/p...




Oggi sono qui per parlarvi di “Seductive Secrecy” di Marni Mann, secondo volume della “Shadows Series” che segue direttamente “Seductive Shadows” . Non so davvero se sono in grado di poterlo fare, se ho le parole giuste, se ho le capacità per rendere in una recensione la spettacolarità di questo libro. E non lo dico solo perché sono di parte e ho imparato ad apprezzare il lavoro della Mann, ma anzi proprio perché ho la sicurezza di trovarmi di fronte una scrittrice di talento, che mi permetto di dire certe cose. Insomma, questo libro è meraviglioso, molto più del primo.

“Siamo due anime spezzate che si sono trovate in un mondo di ombre. Siamo tenuti insieme da una connessione di segreti, oscuri e spaventati e riluttanti ad andare via. La loro profondità è seduttiva e schiacciante, un oceano senza fine di nero che minaccia di coprire la brillantezza che teniamo cercandoci.”
Con la sua carriera artistica che sta sbocciando e i predatori della villa ormai non più una minaccia, Charlie sta creando una nuova vita. I suoi desideri sono cambiati, e ora ha una chance a una relazione sana e amorevole con Cameron – se solo potessero seppellire i ricordi e i dubbi che li cacciano. Possono superare la distruzione dei loro passati o la svelamento di segreti shoccanti e ancora più dolorosi li porterà di nuovo nelle ombre?


Quando questa estate la Mann aveva chiesto se i lettori volevano un seguito del primo libro della storia di Charlie io non ho potuto far altro che esultare e dichiararmi super desiderosa di un seguito, perché la storia merita e Charlie e Cameron avevano ancora moltissimo da dire. E avevo perfettamente ragione. La complessità di questa storia è innegabile e va al di là del semplice fatto che si tratta di una romance, piena di scene passionali e incredibilmente esplicite. No la vera complessità deriva dal fatto che si tratta di un libro multistrato, dove la storia non si ferma al mero contatto tra Charlie e Cameron, ma anzi studia in profondità le conseguenze di una scelta, i risvolti di quello che è accaduto nella villa nel libro precedente, e lo porta a compimento. È sempre Charlie che racconta la sua storia in prima persona, lei la protagonista indiscussa di un racconto vibrante e vero, che supera i confini della pagina e si inviluppa nella vita del lettore. Niente della storia di Charlie è liscio, semplice, comune. Tutti i fatti portano a conseguenze più profonde, a situazioni, che in prima approssimazione non si sarebbero mai immaginate. La crescita emotiva della ragazza è stupefacente, non solo per l’affermazione della sua identità come donna e come pittrice, ma anche come componente di una coppia che può vivere una relazione normale. Non è semplice, niente di quello che capita nel libro è lineare o scontato, tutti i livelli portano all’esplosione. Quando sembra di essere arrivati al punto ecco un nuovo fatto, un dettaglio imprevisto che si aggiunge ad un puzzle che rende la storia di Charlie non solo avvincente ma anche di insegnamento. Una evoluzione che non si ferma, ma che in ogni pagina sembra intendere a qualcosa di più. Charlie affronta le sue paure, prende il coraggio a due mani e si getta a capofitto nella sua relazione con Cameron. Sono passati sei mesi dai fatti di “Seductive Shadows” e in qualche modo, questi sono ancora incisi profondamente nella ragazza. Mentre lavora, ama, e si immerge nella realtà che la circonda, Charlie non smette di guardarsi alle spalle e in qualche modo resta vittima di un circolo vizioso, che viene spezzato solo dalla tenacia di Cameron. Cameron che riempie la pagina, con la sua arte, il suo corpo muscoloso e possente, e la sua inquieta fiducia e dedizione, la calda consapevolezza di avere Charlie nella sua vita e di continuare a vivere con lei, per lei, in lei.
“Cameron was my seductive secret…” così Charlie descrive il suo uomo in un’accettanza che diventa amore lentamente, niente è affrettato, la Mann dosa i tempi in maniera perfetta, creando prima anticipazione e poi rilascio, in una storia vera, di quelle che ti può capitare di vivere. Cameron non è perfetto, dominante, pieno di fascino, è un’artista di successo, pieno di mezzi e possibilità, ma allo stesso tempo chiuso, introverso, capace di parlare meglio con le mani e la lingua, che con la testa. In una situazione in cui la fiducia è tutto, la storia tra i due è intensa, un ottovolante di dimensioni inimmaginabili, che riesce sempre, in qualche modo assurdo a donare tranquillità. Non è solo Charlie ad evolvere verso il meglio, anche Cameron lo fa, con difficoltà magari, e inciampando, ma sempre con la consapevolezza che amare, amare davvero è pieno di sentimenti contrastanti, di dolore. Amare è complicato, amare significa mettere in gioco qualsiasi cosa, essere felici comporta un certo grado di dolore. Perché se non sai cosa sia la disperazione, quella che ti lascia con il cuore spezzato e le lacrime agli occhi, non sai nemmeno cosa sia la felicità.
Ritroviamo vecchie conoscenze, come Dallas, che ormai è diventato il migliore amico di Charlie e che avrà un ruolo speciale in questo secondo volume, così come il padre della ragazza, che pure non avrà un ruolo definitivo. In questa storia, niente ha i contorni definiti, non c’è il bianco e il nero, il grigio predomina, salvo poi esplodere in colori fosforescenti. Ma appaiono anche nuovi personaggi come Rayder il fratello di Cameron e non manca anche l’intrusa della situazione, Lara.
Boston ancora una volta fa da sfondo a questa storia ruvida, piena di passione, ma il vero luogo principe rimane lo studio di Cameron, dove tutte le scene più importanti trovano luogo. Questo anche per sottolineare come l’arte, i dipinti, le scene che Cameron e Charlie mettono su tela siano completamente legate e intrecciate con la loro storia, dando spessore, unicità e una texture tutta particolare all’intera vicenda, in una legittimazione ancora più profonda di quella che ci si potrebbe aspettare.

Il particolare da non dimenticare? Una scatola con un nastro…

Uscito il 24 ottobre 2013 per BookTrope, “Seductive Secrecy” è splendidamente scritto, di una profondità rara da trovare in una romance sul filo dell’erotica come in questo caso e che lascia spazio a riflessioni serie. Di una maturità invidiabile, con più chiavi di lettura, è un libro a cui non si può smettere di pensare. Ruvido, erotico, emozionale ha tanto da comunicare al suo lettore che non può smettere di leggere finché non arriva alla fine. Semplicemente perfetto…e come dimenticare Cameron? Un ottimo incentivo all’acquisto.
Buona lettura guys!


Ringrazio immensamente Marni Mann e Heather Ludviksson per avermi permesso di leggere questo libro in cambio della mia onesta opinione, per me significa la luna davvero. Grazie a Tiffany from The Novel Tease blog per avermi permesso di partecipare a questo blog tour.

[allie burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

We were two broken souls who had found each other in a world of shadows.

I do my best to review most of what I read, but the truth is that I hate reviewing my favorite books. My thoughts are stars I can't fathom into constellations kind of thing. Speaking of, I still haven't reviewed The Fault in our Stars, and I read it two years ago. You'll notice I haven't reviewed much of anything by John Green or Sarah Addison Allen, and my falling head over heels for any of Mann's books is kind of a given. I think there is something soul-defining about three-hundred pages of words that steals the words right out of you. You just want to go OH MY GOD JUST GO READ THIS FUCKING BOOK NOW, but of course, severe fangirling is looked down upon in some circles.

I guess I should start out by saying that this book, this entire series, is fucking brilliant.

It's a slow process, and I don't expect the thoughts or the memories of my life before to ever go away. But I want them to be distant and small, like the stars..."

It may be very easy for some to forget that Shadows is an erotica series. There are some readers who will tell you that there is too much thinking involved for an erotica novel (not in those words, but the context is there) or that the sex is tame. For me, this couldn't be farther than the truth. Mann can write a sex scene like no other author I've read, not because of sex or even love, but due to the ambition in lyrical style it bleeds. I've learned much of writing sex from Mann. And that's what this book is; ambition in lyrics, bleeding all over the page like red paint in one of Charlie's works of art. She wrote a love story that is fueled by really, really good sex. And that's what it's all about, isn't it? Why marriages fail? Because there is too much of one or the other, not enough balance between amazing sex and crushing romance. And what do women do, those who are missing something? They read. They read Marni Mann.

I have a special fondness of Charlie, which is why she made my list of favorite female protagonists in literature. In more ways than one, she is me in some kind of mirror universe, where some of my experiences are told through the lips of a woman who is not me. She is relatable to the women of the world who sometimes feel as if they have been irreparably damaged, and secures genuine empathy from those who are not. She is intelligent, even when her own overanalyzation of the lives blending with hers makes you want to shake her, and she is loyal, and sincere, and when she laughs, the world stops breathing. She is beautiful. The darkness that is Charlie glides through the darkness of Boston, yet you can still see her. There are always stars, lighting up her eyes when she looks at you.

I would be the first one to discourage readers of any kind of literature -- even the utmost literary titles -- from running away from this book because it somehow screams something that is outside of your realm. It is a series that defines the genre its in in the most positive way, and I dare you not to fall head over heels with not just Cameron but with Charlie, the hope she brings, and the light she shines on her own dark world. She is stunning, and this book is gorgeous.

Will you look at that. I was so afraid that I'd have nothing to ink the page with other than OH MY GOD THIS BOOK FUCK. There's so much more I could say about it, but then I might talk about it all day.

I lifted the wine glass off the table and finished the small amount that was left. "I think maybe I'm ready to take that swim with you."
"In the ocean?"
I nodded.
"Now," he insisted.
"Now?" He caught me by surprise. "But what about our food...and our wine?"
"They can keep it," he said as he downed the rest of the wine in his glass. He reached into his wallet and threw several bills on the table. "I'll be eating out."
That made me laugh out loud. "We're not very good at this withholding thing, are we?"
"Nope," he said, "not at all." He grabbed my hand and pulled me from the table, leading us back in the direction of our villa. "In my whole life, I've never been so fucking happy to be so bad at something."

Reviewed for Geeks Unleashed.

[Rachel T · Rating 5 out of 5]

As reviewed at THE READING CAFE 24 Oct 13

http://www.thereadingcafe.com/seductive-secrecy-shadows-2-by-marni-mann-a-review/#comment-24907

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

Seductive Secrecy by Marni Mann is the highly anticipated sequel to Seductive Shadows (I had done a review for this book a few months back) and it was an enjoyable closure to many questions I know I had left unanswered and the beautiful continuation of a couple who captivated me thoroughly. If you remember my review on the first book, I used many oxymoron terms to describe that read. I was left completely gobsmacked and wondering WTF!!!!!!! Well Marni delivered yet again revealing more gobsmacking moments but this time I felt a little more ready for them. LOL Compared to the first book this had more of a subdued feel, meaning I felt settled reading the pages not wondering where this story was going. I knew that I was going to be reacquainted with some seriously messed up characters and I knew one way or another someone has to pay for the horror that was revealed in the first book.

I am trying to be careful with revealing much of the story here as part of what was so amazing about this story line (books 1 and 2) was being thrown a curve ball that wasn't predictable in the least. The secrets revealed are so awful and fascinating. Just incase I don't do such a good job with revealing, if you are totally invested in reading the first book, please stop reading this review, go back and buy the first book, read it, then come back and read this review! You've been warned. LOL

Okay so, Cameron and Charlie are trying to make this relationship work despite the fact that they are both completely messed up because of their pasts. Both are successful artists, both use sex as a release from their emotional pain (man these two fire up those sheets, and limo and public venue and ..... ya you get the picture ..lol) and both have come to discover the other is their rock and reason to live life to the fullest. When more secrets are revealed (really Marni, you got me again as I didn't see that coming) they once again have to face one another and decide what they are both willing to live with. Charlie has a past that Cameron is forced to really face, and he ends up going through his own personal hell trying to decide how much is too much to stay with Charlie. Charlie also has people from her past that she needs to face and reunite with to close a frightful door in order to open a happy window.

During this book, while yes feeling subdued, I was beginning to feel a little unsettled as I was flipping the pages. Certainly Marni Mann wouldn't let the bad people get away with all??? People who had committed serious crimes in the first book had somehow escaped punishment and that didn't sit well with me. I should of known this author would not just take care of business but would do so in a seriously creative manner.

I am having trouble with this review as I really feel like I haven't left you with much. Sorry if this review seems to be repetitive, not giving any meat to the story and truthfully it is meant to read that way. Again, what I love about this story was the suspense and the unsettled feel of "what is going here?". There is no way I am ruining any moment for anyone indulging in this series. ;)

Hats off Marni Mann, amazing conclusion. I am going to dive into your other books as I just adore your writing style. :)

HAPPY READING!

[Liezel Felix · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Where There Is Love There Is No Darkness”

I loved Seductive Shadows (review can be found HERE) and this sequel has been on my high anticipated list since. I would have to say that as much as I enjoyed Book 1, I loved Seductive Secrecy even more. It portrays Charlie’s life after the circumstances following the mansions’ take down. Because of the intense history among the main characters and the storyline itself I would recommend reading Seductive Shadows first.

In Seductive Secrecy Charlie and Cameron are found to be content in the life that they now share together. She does however experience those rare episodes where the darkness creeps up on her. This isn’t because she finds Cameron lacking but it’s mostly because of her nature, her personality and the effects of her past relationships. At every turn Cameron adapts to her but when the unavoidable happens where one of her clients literally comes knocking at her door Charlie and Cameron’s relationship is tested in the most extreme way.



What I enjoyed most about this story is its’ uniqueness. It was centered around art and its’ creation. Following the writing style as that of the first book I thought the author did such a wonderful job describing each setting. The paintings themselves were illustrated with such precision it felt all so vivid and I appreciated the authors ingenuity in being able to accomplish this.

Just as in book 1, I adored the relationship between Charlie and Cameron. He provided for her in every means without expecting any sort of compensation. As much as the paintings were illustrative, their fervor was depicted in the same manner too – flawlessly. The passion between them was just incredible. Just as she was insatiable , with her Cameron was too. It wasn’t only about their amazing physical relationship either. Their connection is so profound. It is soul deep. They complimented and completed each other in every way.

I also appreciated that after everything that Charlie went through, she was still able to open her heart and let people in. Given their history, I was glad to see that her relationship with her best friend continued to grow and eventually extend to Cameron as well. I couldn’t imagine how difficult that was with everyone involved but the author made it work. She developed a great relationship with her father too. It was as if he was her guardian angel. Even if they were on different continents he always had a strong presence in Charlie’s life.

The twist and turns in the story were remarkably done as well. The appearance of that one person in this story provided the perfect amount of tension. Surprisingly, I was impressed with this character too and I am hoping that the author expands on his story.

Bottom line is, I LOVED this unique story and if you are into erotic novels with a darker background then this would be a perfect fit for you.

liezelsbookblog.net

[A Rush Of Emotions · Rating 4 out of 5]

I feel like this book began on a rush. There were so many good things happening at the end of book 1 that we only see in flashbacks. It wasn't until shit halfway through that I really loved the direction this book went. A little twist in the plot and I was 100% invested again. Overall the character growth in this duet was well written, and the romance was so good. Not to mention the sexy times were perfection.

[Georgie | The Reading Valkyrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Find more reviews on What She Reads

Another seductive novel from Mann. Creating a kaleidoscope of emotions love and betrayal fly out of the pages. Charlie has finally got the Mansion shut down, the majority of the people who worked and died there have now been exposed. Now it's time to focus on her.

~

This was such an intense read, I pretty much devoured this book. Not really sure where Mann would've taken this novel I thought the plot was perfect. Seductive Shadows had such a heavy erotica outlet whereas I thought Seductive Secrecy was projecting more romance. There was a lot of heavy petting but the delicacy of the writing didn't make me think it was anything but beauty. At times there was some scenarios that were too overwhelming I had to take a breather.

The story is told from the first person narrative of Charlie, creating a more personal connection with her. I loved Charlie as a character, she had an extreme low self-esteem in Seductive Shadows that the idea of her being allowed to be loved scared and baffled her. She had given her body away as a sense of release but now she feels that she is pretty much ruined. What doesn't help is the constant narrative of her dead mother is her head telling her she is worthless too. But now Charlie has hung up her mask and is placing Cee back where she belongs. Throughout this book we see that Charlie is growing, never before has she had someone she could see herself sharing her life with and Cameron is just that to her he is someone precious. Her growth is also reflected back in the letters she writes to her Father (aka the Doctor), having some unconditionally love her is something completely foreign but she is trying to create a bond with him as much as she can.

The relationship between Charlie and Cameron was overwhelming both of them coming from a bad upbringing with their sole outlet is sex and painting, they have a connection and now that Cameron know about the Mansion he is understanding of her. From what happened in there all he wants to do is care for her, to love her. He wants to help her overcome her demons so she can live in the moment with him and more importantly herself.

Seductive Secrecy itself is it's own story and i recommend both books. I think the Seductive in the title describes both novels down to a T.

COVER ART

Both covers are beautiful and follow perfectly in sequence. The obscurity and the shadows, there is still an anonymity which makes me believe that the person on the cover is not depicting Cameron yet another guy that was involved in Charlie's life.

[Jessica Carroll (Novel Words by Jessica) · Rating 5 out of 5]

**I was given an eARC copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest review**

I highly anticipated the sequel to Seductive Shadows because the first book was so deliciously good and I must say that the author did not disappoint me! I must start out by saying that if you have not read Seductive Shadows please do so before reading Seductive Secrecy - it will make the whole wonderful experience much better and you won't feel as if you have been left completely in the dark.

Speaking of the dark - darkness is a main theme throughout these books. It seems to always surround the main character, Cee aka Charlie, in the first book and although it creeps around her throughout the second book you get a sense that it is dissipating slowly but surely. She is an intrinsically strong character despite what she has been through emotionally and physically. I can only use the cliche butterfly analogy to convey what Charlie undergoes from book 1 to 2. A metamorphosis from an ugly caterpillar to a beautiful butterfly!

Charlie and Cameron are two very beautifully crafted characters - sexy, intricate, artistic, insecure, alluring, broken, flawed and strong. They complement each other like pieces to a puzzle and have this amazing chemistry together and there is nothing that can destroy what they have worked so hard to build - not the demons of the past, present struggles or future uncertainties.

"Cameron...my dawn. He had broken through the darkness-my darkness-and pulled me from its depths. I wasn't necessarily standing under the sun yet, or even beneath a mostly-clear sky strewn with clouds, but I was here and he was one of the reasons for that."

This review was exceptionally hard for me to write for some reason without tons of spoilers for those who have not read the first book. I must say that the author's writing is exceptional to say the least. Her vivid descriptions have a way of transporting you to "a scene" in the book and it is almost as if you can touch, taste and feel what is going on in that moment. The main characters are my favorite but you cannot count out the brilliant new and returning secondary characters - they add flavor, mystery and intrigue. Another thumbs up to the author for the amazing plot development and overall flow of the story over the course of the two books. The themes remained true, issues were resolved and the ending was everything I was hoping for - IT ROCKED!!

"Your dawn?" I repeated. "Have you found it?"............."Not only have I found my dawn," he said, "but she's agreed to be mine forever."

**5/5 Stars**

[Roses Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

***WARNING*** If you have not read Seductive Shadows, you will need to read it prior to reading Seductive Secrecy

Seductive Secrecy picks up six months after the ending of Seductive Shadows. Free of the mansion, Charlie is letting go of her past and moving on with her relationship with Cameron, While she's moving on and her art is growing into a career for her, she can't seem to get over the emotional hold the mansion has on her. She's happy with Cameron, but will she ever be able to let go of Cee?

Charlie has strong feelings for Cameron, but when she sees a painting he's been hired to make for Lora, she can't help but think that their relationship is strong enough to survive their friendship. After all, he was with Lora right up until he left her to be with Cee. Lora has a certain hold over Cameron, they know each other's entire body and every desire, and even though he's with Charlie she can see that Lora still wants Cameron back. Dallas and Charlie's friendship continues to grow and Cameron trusts Charlie, but is that enough?

New characters come into play, pasts and secrets must be faced, will their relationship be strong enough to survive?

This is a hard review to write. All I can say is that if you loved Seductive Shadows, you have to HAVE TO pick up this book. I wasn't quite sure where the plot was going to go, after all the mansion is now gone and parties are being held responsible for their role with the exception of Victoria. I can't really talk about the plot, because doing so would ruin the story. Almost right from the start, new characters are introduced and old ones return to shake up the entire book. that's all I can really say. Marni has given us passionate, well developed characters that pull you in and keep you glued to your reader until well into the night dying to know what will happen next with Charlie and Cameron. Well done, another hit, and I look forward to reading more of Marni's work in the future, 5 stars.

***ARC provided in exchange for a honest review***

[Christie72 (Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

***I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.***

Seductive Secrecy is book 2 in the Shadow Series. Charlie is living with her love, Cameron, after her escape from "The Mansion." She has immersed herself in her art and is becoming quite successful. In addition, she is beginning to forge a relationship with her father even though he had to flee the country after helping take down the horror of "The Mansion." Despite her freedom from the darkness of her past, she is still fighting the dark emotional hold her time working at "The Mansion" has on her. Cameron does what he can to help her forgive herself and live her life. They seem to be making a better life for each other, but the past comes back and deals them an devastating blow. It will test the love and trust they have tried so hard to build together.

This series is completely different from anything I have ever read before. At times, it was quite difficult to read. My heart ached for Charlie. I don't know how she endured the things that she did. I loved Cameron. He wasn't only incredibly hot and sexy, but he had a heart of gold. He loved Charlie unconditionally and never judged her for her past decisions; he loved her despite them. The following lines sum up their love quite nicely...I think. "Cameron...my dawn. He had broken through the darkness-my darkness--and pulled me from its depths. I wasn't necessarily standing under the sun yet, or even beneath a mostly-clear sky strewn with the clouds, but I was here and he was one of the reasons for that." It gave me hope that Charlie might find happiness at last.

Of course, Seductive Secrecy had lots of STEAMY SEX! I don't think I will think of painting in the same way again after their session in the studio!!! WOW!!! There was also a twist at the end that I didn't see coming. However, my favorite thing about this book is the author's talent for showing me the healing power of art. It was a beautifully written book about the incredible power that love has to heal even the most damaged of human beings.

[Arlena · Rating 5 out of 5]

By: Marni Mann
Published By: Entice by Booktrope
Age Recommended: Adult (Erotic)
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Series: Shadows #2
Review:

"Seductive Secrecy" by Marni Mann was the second in this authors series: Shadows and it would probably be a good thing to read it first before reading (Seductive Shadows) for more of a understanding to what all this novel is about. This novel has a great plot...to tell would ruin the story of it all so.....

all I will say is that you must pick up "Seductive Secrecy" after reading Seductive Shadows and you will see what I mean. However, I will say its a unforgettable story about 'love in light and in darkness.'

For Charlie and Cameron will there be a 'happily ever after?" Will things ever settle down before we see visitors entering the picture that could cause much trouble. This novel offers a lots of emotions that are very complexed. You will find that the characters are somewhat flawed and very insecure. Yes, it is a romantic novel but so much angst in the middle of it all. All in all I thought this novel was written very well once you got into it you will be able to see how it will suck you into all of the 'emotional vortex' of it all. Once Charlie and Cameron are living together there will be obstacles that will lead to jealousy. Why is this? What happens when Cameron's brother Ryder comes into the picture? What secrets does Ryder have that will be brought out into the open? How will these secrets have any bearing of Charlie's and Cameron's relationship? Then the story continues with Charlie's now reconnecting with her father. What will come of that? I don't want to say to much more not wanting to ruin it for the reader...so I will say you must pick up the amazing read to see for yourself. Be ready for a 'emotional wreck' at the end but still it's a wonderful brilliant read. "Seductive Secrecy" is for anyone who likes dark romances and that being said ... pick up this novel... I don't think you will be unhappy with it.

[My Little Nook · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars



I loved this second and last book of the Shadows series!!It wasn't as dark as book one, but it was so HOT, full with turn of events, painful truths and painful twists.

The book tells us the life of Charlie and Cameron together after the scandal of the shot down of the mansion. I totally enjoyed reading about their life together. Their sex is so hot...especially the canvas scene.

"I'm going to finish painting you," he breathed against my neck. "Then you're going to paint me." The brush slowly went up my back and around each shoulder. "And once you're covered, I'm going to place you on that canvas, slide my dick inside you, and we're going to create our own art."

Charlie will try to hold on at this happiness she's finally living, but the destiny is going to be again cruel with her. I felt really bad for her!!







And what happened with Marvin made me very sad too...I was so enjoying this new family he and Charlie was creating! She needed this parent!



But I'm happy that Charlie and Cameron now are in a happy place <3

I would have loved a 3rd book though...I want to read more about them and to know more about Cameron demons. I hope Marni Mann will give us a 3rd book!

[Ashley Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Seductive Secrecy is a great followup to Seductive Shadows! It still has that dark and gritty feel to it, but some color starts to bleed into it. The book picks up a few months after the fall of the mansion, and you'd expect for Charlie and Cameron to be living happily ever after, "The Up and Coming Artists". But the past is a bitch to get over, they are both broken still, and Charlie's time at the mansion haunts her. Just when the couple think they have things settled, visitors from the past threaten to rip them apart.

I liked Seductive Shadows a bit more, because it was emotionally complex. It forced you to question yourself.. it ripped you apart.. poured a bit of salt in, but it had an implied HEA that I didn't much care for. But when I heard that Marni decided to write this book I was excited. Seductive Secrecy has more of a romantic aspect to it and a great heartbreaking angst in the middle. I love how, like the characters, their relationship is flawed and a tad insecure. I think Mann did a great job with this book, because the plot of the first book was so dark and a bit taboo to a plot that is primarily about relationships. But it remained interesting.

The ONLY thing I would criticize this book on is the smexy times, the first two scenes were steamy, but they became redundant after a while, I skimmed through them. And if I ever met a man that would like to keep his face buried between a set of legs like Cam, then I'd probably chain him to my bed. But jokes aside, oral scenes are boring to me and I could have done without so many of them.

If you liked Seductive Shadows, then you'll like this book. If you haven't read either, I'd recommend them both!