What do you think?
Rate this book
Hidden Desires
Jardel
Everyone has hidden desires...
Jardel has a structured life, a successful career, and a fine woman beside him. Solange Rivera is everything he wished for, but he's no Prince Charming.
Betting it all on her seems to be the answer to all his troubles, but Solange has other plans. When Solange refuses Jardel’s vision for the future, there is nothing left but to prove to her that they are meant to be together. By any means necessary. Even if it takes a little help from his friends.
This series is a spinoff of Wicked Moves. The series can be read on its own, however, it's enhanced by reading A Turn in the Air first.
Each book in the Hidden Desires series is interconnected and I highly recommend you read the series in order.
164 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 31, 2023
103 people are currently reading
278 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
February 13, 2024
I highly recommend reading A Turn in the Air prior to reading this book for the best experience.
On paper, Jardel and Solange are the perfect couple. Their chemistry is off the charts, the love is mutual and for awhile that was enough. But when the marriage proposal ends in a no from Solange, these two realize they’ve both been hiding their true desires from each other, in more ways than one.
I loved how this book explored ethical non-monogamy. Jardel and Solange had built the trust it took to make that shift in their relationship. They were also able to be more vulnerable with each other, which was all Solange wanted from Jardel.
I will say the book definitely would’ve benefitted from a few more pages/chapters to flesh a few more things out. I would’ve loved to see Jardel and Solange get married, and even see how the non-monogamous lifestyle worked for them after they tied the knot. Other than that, it was hot as heck and it’s always a good time reading this author’s books.
On paper, Jardel and Solange are the perfect couple. Their chemistry is off the charts, the love is mutual and for awhile that was enough. But when the marriage proposal ends in a no from Solange, these two realize they’ve both been hiding their true desires from each other, in more ways than one.
I loved how this book explored ethical non-monogamy. Jardel and Solange had built the trust it took to make that shift in their relationship. They were also able to be more vulnerable with each other, which was all Solange wanted from Jardel.
I will say the book definitely would’ve benefitted from a few more pages/chapters to flesh a few more things out. I would’ve loved to see Jardel and Solange get married, and even see how the non-monogamous lifestyle worked for them after they tied the knot. Other than that, it was hot as heck and it’s always a good time reading this author’s books.
September 1, 2023
🙃
You know AH was on Twitter saying this book was milder. Girl, she was fibbing 🤭
Let's first start off with the breakup happens early and we work backwards. We approve.
Then therapy is incorporated as an equalizer to work through the walls that were put up by both Jardel and Solange. It wasn't a magic bullet to fix everything. Jardel was actively still struggling on page but used coping skills he used in therapy. Again, yes.
What I found interesting and refreshing was how Solange came to what she needed as aftercare. I won't spoil it for you but it was the opposite of what I expected and I love when authors take a risk and do something less formulaic. What Jardel needed was also vastly different and I think it helps readers see the range of kink.
The goddess experience I'm with Tonita 😅.
The first 10% or right after the breakup things slowdown but overall, I really enjoyed the way how this world is coming together. It's a community and we are starting to see how it all connected. And I'm happy we get to see the budding relationship with Sal.
***I received an ARC but waited to read the book on release day.
***I helped the author with one promo image for launch through bookmarked.indie
CN: DV, breast cancer death, childhood trauma, police corruption
You know AH was on Twitter saying this book was milder. Girl, she was fibbing 🤭
Let's first start off with the breakup happens early and we work backwards. We approve.
Then therapy is incorporated as an equalizer to work through the walls that were put up by both Jardel and Solange. It wasn't a magic bullet to fix everything. Jardel was actively still struggling on page but used coping skills he used in therapy. Again, yes.
What I found interesting and refreshing was how Solange came to what she needed as aftercare. I won't spoil it for you but it was the opposite of what I expected and I love when authors take a risk and do something less formulaic. What Jardel needed was also vastly different and I think it helps readers see the range of kink.
The goddess experience I'm with Tonita 😅.
The first 10% or right after the breakup things slowdown but overall, I really enjoyed the way how this world is coming together. It's a community and we are starting to see how it all connected. And I'm happy we get to see the budding relationship with Sal.
***I received an ARC but waited to read the book on release day.
***I helped the author with one promo image for launch through bookmarked.indie
CN: DV, breast cancer death, childhood trauma, police corruption
February 25, 2024
Idk what happens that never posted my ARC review here but this is my second read and nothing about how I feel has changed except for I loved it more.
So this what we doing now? Telling men what we want and need and them doing the work mentally and emotionally to give it to us??!
This goddess is either a dream walker and has been spending time in my dreams or the power of indie authors is that ever reader can find the stories that speak to them. Because the way this book had me grinning like a fool, squealing like a school girl, and my blood pumping like I was running a race, LAWD have mercy. This was a beautiful erotic story of “growing together instead of side by side.” We met Xavier Jardel in A Turn in the Air and the brothers were a juicy mysterious trio so getting this story is a real treat. I joked that I don’t want realistic men in my romance stories but the caveat is clearly that they just have to be written well because second chance isn’t my jam but I absolutely loved the way this one plays out. Cause baby if Mrs. Cunningham doesn’t do anything she is going to give you respectful kink representation and beautiful multicultural curvaceous woman who are finding themselves and demanding the kind of life and love they want and deserve. And emotional intelligence, thoughtful, BDE Black men giving it to them! I love that for her and especially for me. She has become an immediate one click for me and an author I can count on for stories that make me feel good, feel seen and empower me not to settle.
So this what we doing now? Telling men what we want and need and them doing the work mentally and emotionally to give it to us??!
This goddess is either a dream walker and has been spending time in my dreams or the power of indie authors is that ever reader can find the stories that speak to them. Because the way this book had me grinning like a fool, squealing like a school girl, and my blood pumping like I was running a race, LAWD have mercy. This was a beautiful erotic story of “growing together instead of side by side.” We met Xavier Jardel in A Turn in the Air and the brothers were a juicy mysterious trio so getting this story is a real treat. I joked that I don’t want realistic men in my romance stories but the caveat is clearly that they just have to be written well because second chance isn’t my jam but I absolutely loved the way this one plays out. Cause baby if Mrs. Cunningham doesn’t do anything she is going to give you respectful kink representation and beautiful multicultural curvaceous woman who are finding themselves and demanding the kind of life and love they want and deserve. And emotional intelligence, thoughtful, BDE Black men giving it to them! I love that for her and especially for me. She has become an immediate one click for me and an author I can count on for stories that make me feel good, feel seen and empower me not to settle.
November 20, 2023
Enjoyed this exploration of ethical non-monogamy and consensual kink. Also looking forward to learning more about Master Q and his brothers. Loved this read!
February 24, 2024
I've read a little bit of A.H. Cunningham's work, specifically, Alight, Plié, and A Turn In the Air.
From her books, three things are very clear: A.H. Cunningham cares deeply for her characters, takes her stories seriously, and is determined to write the most diverse characters in erotica/romance today. Nothing about her stories is stereotypical or normal. She manages to take some of the most complex intimate interpersonal issues and make them easy to digest, understand and relate to. I appreciate Cunningham so much for this.
Now, onto my review of Jardel. Cunningham maintains her commitment to depicting characters of the African Diaspora in unique and sentimental ways. Building from the world created with Wicked Moves, we learn more about Sal's brothers, specifically Jardel and the love of his life, Solange.
I had no idea what to expect based on the synopsis and a significant portion of the book, at 25 or 30% is a bit mysterious - you're not sure what Jardel is keeping from Solange and vice versa. However, once we get over that hurdle, it is smooth sailing. We get progressive characters, a good storyline, and lots of spice!
I really enjoyed Jardel, here is one of my favorite quotes from Jardel in the book:
The love story that blooms between Jardel and Solange is summed up in this quote:
While Cunningham manages to portray the FMC, Solange, who desires ethical non-monogamy (ENM) as submissive in many ways to her "alpha" partner, Jardel, with quotes, like, "There was a time to push and a time to yield...", Cunningham still portrays her as a self-assured, progressive, woman who acknowledges "I shouldn't and wouldn't forget the power I had..."
If you're looking for an emotional erotic romance, I highly recommend Jardel. The story is beautifully written with well-developed and diverse characters that are sure to open your mind up about interpersonal relationships, therapy, finding solace, and authenticity in relationships.
Final Rating: 4.25 stars out of 5
Spice: 🥵 🥵 🥵 🥵 🥵
Content Warnings:
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Cursing
Minor: Deportation, Alcohol, Emotional abuse, and Grief
From her books, three things are very clear: A.H. Cunningham cares deeply for her characters, takes her stories seriously, and is determined to write the most diverse characters in erotica/romance today. Nothing about her stories is stereotypical or normal. She manages to take some of the most complex intimate interpersonal issues and make them easy to digest, understand and relate to. I appreciate Cunningham so much for this.
Now, onto my review of Jardel. Cunningham maintains her commitment to depicting characters of the African Diaspora in unique and sentimental ways. Building from the world created with Wicked Moves, we learn more about Sal's brothers, specifically Jardel and the love of his life, Solange.
I had no idea what to expect based on the synopsis and a significant portion of the book, at 25 or 30% is a bit mysterious - you're not sure what Jardel is keeping from Solange and vice versa. However, once we get over that hurdle, it is smooth sailing. We get progressive characters, a good storyline, and lots of spice!
I really enjoyed Jardel, here is one of my favorite quotes from Jardel in the book:
I know I'm not easy, but I want you in my life, and I know you've never asked me to change, but I want to adjust. For me. Because I deserve growth, and we belong to each other.
The love story that blooms between Jardel and Solange is summed up in this quote:
"Watching her was like stepping outside to my garden under the setting sun after a grueling day, being in complete peace and tranquility in my element."
While Cunningham manages to portray the FMC, Solange, who desires ethical non-monogamy (ENM) as submissive in many ways to her "alpha" partner, Jardel, with quotes, like, "There was a time to push and a time to yield...", Cunningham still portrays her as a self-assured, progressive, woman who acknowledges "I shouldn't and wouldn't forget the power I had..."
If you're looking for an emotional erotic romance, I highly recommend Jardel. The story is beautifully written with well-developed and diverse characters that are sure to open your mind up about interpersonal relationships, therapy, finding solace, and authenticity in relationships.
Final Rating: 4.25 stars out of 5
Spice: 🥵 🥵 🥵 🥵 🥵
Content Warnings:
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Cursing
Minor: Deportation, Alcohol, Emotional abuse, and Grief
September 2, 2023
Not Your Average Romance…
And not just because of the non-monogamous plot point but because of the underlying theme that a romance without openness and trust is just a cheap caricature of true love.
From day one Jardel knew Solange was his wife and pursued her with intent. Everything he did was with marriage as the end game. But in his pursuit he kept so much of himself hidden which led to her rejecting his proposal.
Solange was also at fault here as she had kept her desires and wants bottled up. She was willing to give Jardel his space and not rock the boat until when faced with a lifetime of only receiving half of the man she loves.
This is the story of how beautiful and life changing love can be when a couple is willing to quiet the doubts, move past their fears and insecurities and embrace the new possibilities. No love story is the same and Jardel and Solange proved that in this book.
I enjoyed this read and I loved the way their new relationship dynamic was presented and how it was packaged in such a way that there was never any doubt as to how deeply in love Jardel and Solange were with each other.
PS: Deacon is my man and I need his book like yesterday!! 🥵🥵
PPS: There was nothing mild about this damn book Ms. Cunningham!!! 🔥🔥🔥
And not just because of the non-monogamous plot point but because of the underlying theme that a romance without openness and trust is just a cheap caricature of true love.
From day one Jardel knew Solange was his wife and pursued her with intent. Everything he did was with marriage as the end game. But in his pursuit he kept so much of himself hidden which led to her rejecting his proposal.
Solange was also at fault here as she had kept her desires and wants bottled up. She was willing to give Jardel his space and not rock the boat until when faced with a lifetime of only receiving half of the man she loves.
This is the story of how beautiful and life changing love can be when a couple is willing to quiet the doubts, move past their fears and insecurities and embrace the new possibilities. No love story is the same and Jardel and Solange proved that in this book.
I enjoyed this read and I loved the way their new relationship dynamic was presented and how it was packaged in such a way that there was never any doubt as to how deeply in love Jardel and Solange were with each other.
PS: Deacon is my man and I need his book like yesterday!! 🥵🥵
PPS: There was nothing mild about this damn book Ms. Cunningham!!! 🔥🔥🔥
February 18, 2024
Jardel and Solange are successful attorneys, and are deeply in love. So when Jardel proposes to Solange, imagine his surprise when she refuses. They seemingly have a beautiful life together, but turns out they've both been hiding a part of themselves. Jardel is determined to get Solange back, no matter the cost, but they both will have to look past each other if they have any chance of getting back together.
This books takes you on the journey along with Jardel and Solange, as they discover how important it is to reveal all of yourself to your partner. I was drawn in by their strong personalities and their support of one another both personally and professionally. Their strong love for one another is evident, but love isn't enough to sustain their bond. Their discoveries and revelations were so compelling. Their ups and downs, input from family and friends as they maneuver the HEA that may look different from before made this story so relatable for me.
A. H. Cunningham definitely brings the heat between Jardel and Solange, and the humor from their families. I adored Solange's mother. If you're familiar with previous books, we get a catch up with Jardel's family, and meet some characters I hope will be seen in future stories. I really enjoy the writing, how the story flowed, and the twists that kept me on my toes. This will be a book I return to.
This books takes you on the journey along with Jardel and Solange, as they discover how important it is to reveal all of yourself to your partner. I was drawn in by their strong personalities and their support of one another both personally and professionally. Their strong love for one another is evident, but love isn't enough to sustain their bond. Their discoveries and revelations were so compelling. Their ups and downs, input from family and friends as they maneuver the HEA that may look different from before made this story so relatable for me.
A. H. Cunningham definitely brings the heat between Jardel and Solange, and the humor from their families. I adored Solange's mother. If you're familiar with previous books, we get a catch up with Jardel's family, and meet some characters I hope will be seen in future stories. I really enjoy the writing, how the story flowed, and the twists that kept me on my toes. This will be a book I return to.
November 10, 2025
A.H. Cunningham this is my first introduction to you ma’am, and you didn’t come to play!!! This story pulls at your heart strings from the beginning and then worked through a few different layers to find a happy place. Solange feels like most women and dealing with having to walk on eggshells with not understand the full extent of the man you love and owns your heart. Then you have Jardel trying to control everything to keep his walls in tack while trying to love with missing pieces. But baby the things they have in common and don’t share with each other is mind blowing. I don’t know if its me reading these kind of books but I feel if you desire it you to should get a night or two of the goddess experience!!!! The love and communication to live out the way you feel sounds so freeing when everyone is on the same page. The work these two put in to get their relationship on track was great to see. I will be back for part 2&3 of this series. This is my type of carry on. A Man that knows what he wants and puts forth the work to get just that and allow his women to get what she wants in return. If only we all had a book like romance story.
September 2, 2023
AH hasn’t missed yet
The way this author writes about various kinks and orientations is astounding. Each character is so fully fleshed out and the only real complaint I have is that she keeps presenting new people that I want to read about (i. e., Tonita). Jardel and Solange share a love that is out of this world. His dedication to her happiness is admirable. Solange was presented as a strong woman who faced her fear of losing Jardel by challenging him to do better. I can’t wait for the next book.
The way this author writes about various kinks and orientations is astounding. Each character is so fully fleshed out and the only real complaint I have is that she keeps presenting new people that I want to read about (i. e., Tonita). Jardel and Solange share a love that is out of this world. His dedication to her happiness is admirable. Solange was presented as a strong woman who faced her fear of losing Jardel by challenging him to do better. I can’t wait for the next book.
September 5, 2023
I’m going to preface by saying I don’t have an issue with ethically consensual non monogamy. The issue I had with the overall story was that it was with Jardel’s homies. Men that he hangs out with and sees frequently. That is too blurry of a line for me. Why couldn’t it be different men who work at the club? Why his inner circle. It kinda gave me the icks. Other than that the story was hot. I felt a lot of stuff was left out for the sake of the sex. I didn’t feel love between the MCs but if the author says they’re in love then I guess I believe they’re in love.
October 15, 2023
I was very curious to find out about the trio of brothers. Jardel must face his past in order to embrace his future with Solange.
It was refreshing to read about a woman owning her sexuality. I love how it was step by step, so they were intentional about their actions instead of being so impulsive that they'd regret it.
Once again, A. H. Cunningham explores the definition of the word love. It might not be conventional, but the characters will have to make it work... I do want a spinoff with Solange's mom.
It was refreshing to read about a woman owning her sexuality. I love how it was step by step, so they were intentional about their actions instead of being so impulsive that they'd regret it.
Once again, A. H. Cunningham explores the definition of the word love. It might not be conventional, but the characters will have to make it work... I do want a spinoff with Solange's mom.
September 3, 2023
Ahh!!! The author never disappoints! Absolutely loved the story, the characters, how they navigated through their hardships and of course the smvvtyy scenes! It is M/F relationship but he shares her with his bsf ONLY for bedr00m activities! 🤭 I love the Afro Latine Rep and that they were both Latine! The Spanglish during the dialogue & even during the steammyyy scenes! 🥵
Thank you so much for my ARC!
Thank you so much for my ARC!
September 10, 2023
My My My…🤭😮💨🥰🔥
Every book Ms. Cunningham blesses us with just gets better and better. I just LOVE her mind for creating this! Ms. Solange is a lucky woman! Lucky lucky woman! If ever there was an FMC to envy, SHE’S HER! Jardel, God bless him for being the open minded man that he was! And the supporting cast?! *Chefs Kiss* they deserve awards for these performances. Can’t wait for more from this series!
Every book Ms. Cunningham blesses us with just gets better and better. I just LOVE her mind for creating this! Ms. Solange is a lucky woman! Lucky lucky woman! If ever there was an FMC to envy, SHE’S HER! Jardel, God bless him for being the open minded man that he was! And the supporting cast?! *Chefs Kiss* they deserve awards for these performances. Can’t wait for more from this series!
May 29, 2024
DON'T READ THIS AT WORK. You'll thank me later.
I feel like A.H. Cunningham gets a kick out of pulling the most insane reactions out of me. This felt personal. I was dying to scream, flip a table, run, cry, shake people... but I couldn't cause I had to be all professional at work.
TROPES:
-M/F
-Lawyers
-Kink exploration
-Second Chance
-🔥🔥🔥🔥
CW: Mentions of ICE, deportation, parents death(cancer), toxic parent
I feel like A.H. Cunningham gets a kick out of pulling the most insane reactions out of me. This felt personal. I was dying to scream, flip a table, run, cry, shake people... but I couldn't cause I had to be all professional at work.
TROPES:
-M/F
-Lawyers
-Kink exploration
-Second Chance
-🔥🔥🔥🔥
CW: Mentions of ICE, deportation, parents death(cancer), toxic parent
January 22, 2026
Erotic as hell! A.H. Cunningham did not come to play!!!!!
As someone somewhere said: I like dirty but I love filthy, I love filthy but I’m obsessed with naaaasty. Literally straight to the point and super spicy 🙂↕️🥵. I love that this author prioritizes highlighting culture into these characters, the plot, and the dirty talk 😏👍.
I read so many smut scenes that most aren’t memorable to me anymore, but that last scene!?!?!?
I need Deacon to have his one book please and thank you 🙏.
As someone somewhere said: I like dirty but I love filthy, I love filthy but I’m obsessed with naaaasty. Literally straight to the point and super spicy 🙂↕️🥵. I love that this author prioritizes highlighting culture into these characters, the plot, and the dirty talk 😏👍.
I read so many smut scenes that most aren’t memorable to me anymore, but that last scene!?!?!?
I need Deacon to have his one book please and thank you 🙏.
September 9, 2023
AH always writes characters with such care. This novella gives you everything you need, sibling banter, relationship drama and all the imitate times you could ask for. As always, AH writes kink with care and pride.
I received an ARC from the author
I helped the author with promo coordination launch through bookmarked.indie
I received an ARC from the author
I helped the author with promo coordination launch through bookmarked.indie
January 2, 2024
This book was quite literally perfect!! I could find nothing wrong with this book! I was a little confused with it starting with a well established couple 2 years in but the confusion went away quickly after finishing the first 2 chapters. Perfect way to start off the new year! Can’t wait to read more from this author cause again so freaking good!
February 12, 2024
Wow
This is the first book I've read where the couple was already together and we read the story of how the come together even more through their mutual love of finding out more about the other. This was very different and i loved the black love in this story! I'd come back for more!
This is the first book I've read where the couple was already together and we read the story of how the come together even more through their mutual love of finding out more about the other. This was very different and i loved the black love in this story! I'd come back for more!
April 13, 2024
Well ok!!! Ummmmm lol!!!! Wheww! Consensual group sex and heavy on the kink! Lol Solange and Jardel tested major waters and ended up on the ride of their life. When you talk things out up front I guess for some couples this works for them. This is definitely spicy and heavy on the sexy energy. Grab you a cool glass of water! Lol
December 10, 2024
This truly was a book about a couple who willingly learned how to trust each other fully. I thought that it was beautifully done. I thought that it was also quite realistic. And yes, it was indeed 🔥. If you open up your mind, then you will enjoy it fully. This author can do no wrong in my eyes or ears. I really enjoy her characters.
September 12, 2023
Goddess Party
This book was... Not for me... But it still was a really good book! I personally couldn't get with this kind of kink so it was a little hard to read but it still had a great storyline and as always, I'll be reading anything this author comes out with.
This book was... Not for me... But it still was a really good book! I personally couldn't get with this kind of kink so it was a little hard to read but it still had a great storyline and as always, I'll be reading anything this author comes out with.
November 12, 2023
Red Hot and Deep
This book was a great addition to the previous ones. It was spicy erotic, but had moments that showed the depth of the characters. It certainly kept things hot!!! A good read.
This book was a great addition to the previous ones. It was spicy erotic, but had moments that showed the depth of the characters. It certainly kept things hot!!! A good read.
January 28, 2024
GROWN & SEXY ❤️ Jardel & Solange work their way through being vulnerable and setting boundaries in their open relationship. I ❤️ the therapy representation. The beauty of the Afro Latino culture; music, food, language. Loving the crew !
September 11, 2024
Sizzling hott!! 🥵🥵🥵
I don't know what I expected, but I didn't expect the Goddess experience. Whew chyle! Jardel and his crew were sizzling hott! 🥵🥵🥵 I love the storyline and sweet ending!
I don't know what I expected, but I didn't expect the Goddess experience. Whew chyle! Jardel and his crew were sizzling hott! 🥵🥵🥵 I love the storyline and sweet ending!
November 9, 2023
4.5 rounded up
March 25, 2024
Talk about sexy. I was in a frenzy while reading this book. A woman with these desires could only hope for such an encounter. I am one of those women. Beautifully written outstanding story.
April 10, 2024
Spicy
I love when the spice and the storyline are both top tier. AHC delivers another hit, Jardel has bested my current fave Ablaze. I’d love to chat but I’m off to meet Joaquim.
I love when the spice and the storyline are both top tier. AHC delivers another hit, Jardel has bested my current fave Ablaze. I’d love to chat but I’m off to meet Joaquim.
June 21, 2024
bruh, this book was so good! Like so good! Like the communication in this had me drooling. Like where is my Jardel, like I am obsessed with this man and this book. Like baby.
September 15, 2024
This wasn’t the book for me but I do think the plot was good!
October 19, 2024
It was okay, not my favorite topic.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews