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Secrets and Sins #3
Raphael
When Greer Addison finds her future husband in bed with another woman, she runs…right into the arms of dark and dangerous Raphael Marcel. Angry and hurt, she throws caution to the wind and spends a hot night with the sexy security specialist. But when her fiancé is found dead, Greer becomes the main suspect of a crime she can’t remember.
Raphael is stunned and suspicious when Greer shows up on his doorstep claiming she’s carrying his baby. Worse, she’s the target of a stalker bent on making her pay for a murder she doesn’t recall. As Raphael begins to trust Greer, they must race against the clock to uncover a killer.
Because Greer’s memory is returning...
Raphael is stunned and suspicious when Greer shows up on his doorstep claiming she’s carrying his baby. Worse, she’s the target of a stalker bent on making her pay for a murder she doesn’t recall. As Raphael begins to trust Greer, they must race against the clock to uncover a killer.
Because Greer’s memory is returning...
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 28, 2014
32 people are currently reading
394 people want to read
About the author
Naima Simone
164 books2,052 followersPublished since 2009, USA Today Bestselling author Naima Simone loves writing sizzling romances with heart, a touch of humor and snark. Her books have been featured in The Washington Post and Entertainment Weekly, and described as balancing “crackling, electric love scenes with exquisitely rendered characters caught in emotional turmoil.”
She is wife to Superman, or his non-Kryptonian, less bullet proof equivalent, and mother to the most awesome kids ever. They all live in perfect, sometimes domestically-challenged bliss in the southern United States.
She is wife to Superman, or his non-Kryptonian, less bullet proof equivalent, and mother to the most awesome kids ever. They all live in perfect, sometimes domestically-challenged bliss in the southern United States.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
April 5, 2015
Greer finds her ,now ex, fiancee in bed with another woman and like everyone else who walked in her shoes, she drinks her pain and humiliation away in a bar. But when Raphael steps into the bar and begins to taunt her, her relationship hysteria finally catches up to her.
The hysteria breaks the ice and the pierced bad boy has a clear path to unleash his charm on her, making her forget all about cheating ex. Raphael makes her smile and he promises to give her a "ride" she won't forget.
At the end of their “ride” Raphael takes her home but she isn't ready to invite him in so he drives away. She should have invited him in, because when she opens the door to her place, there is her ex. Laying on the floor. Dead. She quickly joins him on the floor.... No she isn't dead, she probably just passed out….?
Next thing she's waking up at the hospital with a detective ready to question her. Seems Greer is the prime suspect in the investigation to her ex's death. And the odds are against her, she has motive, opportunity and a very convenient amnesia. It doesn't look good for Greer at all. Worst of all is that she pretty much has to go through it alone, yes she has her brother and her best friend. But that's it, her parents sure aren't going to help. They have their reputation to think about...
Flash forward to four months later. Greer is semi cleared from all suspicion but she's pregnant and still alone. She hasn't reached out to Raphael at all during the past months, she's afraid and wants to keep him out of her mess. Since Gavin's death all kinds of vile accusations are thrown at her and she's been receiving threats. The last are becoming more and more severe, which frightens her so much that she has no other choice then to contact Raphael. He's the security specialist, if anyone can help her it's him.
Raphael is hurt and angry, he thinks Greer has rejected him. So he's a little skeptical when she suddenly appears on his doorstep, telling him that she's carrying his child…. He doesn't believe her. But the threats are getting out of hand, Raphael is sure she has a stalker and despite his reservations he can't just leave her unprotected. First thing he will do is move her into his house. Safety above all...that's all it's about.....keep telling yourself that Raphael.
This is the third book in the series. The first two told the story about Raphael's other two friends, Gabriel and Malachim. It's not a must to read the previous two before reading this book but you'll enjoy it more and can fully grasp the bond between the four friends if you do read them. I've read them, liked them but this book is my favorite so far. And that mostly has to do with the deep, sympathetic characters, especially Raphael. I think he had me from the get go.
“For the record, I already figured out your ex had a stick up his ass. Now I know he had his head up there, too. Because if he let you go, he’s an idiot.”
This man is raw, strong but still vulnerable and always straightforward. He provides a rare moment of bliss and peace for Greer. After her supposed rejection he keeps his emotional distance but the minute she's in distress he becomes this amazing, gentle man who will do anything for her. And I love him for that. His distance is also linked to a certain woman in his past. She played him good and he won't risk being humiliated or having his heart broken again. I can't understand why this woman would do that, she has no idea what she's missing out on. His words alone makes me melt.
“I don’t, what, princess?” he asked again, lowering his head. The dark, surprisingly fragrant sweep of his hair brushed her cheekbone, tickled her skin. His lips, sensual and firm, grazed her ear. “Want to drag you out of here, lay you across the nearest flat surface, and fuck you until neither one of us can stand? Hell yes, I want it. Want you. But this is me trying to be considerate. Take note. It probably won’t happen again.”
Who are you Greer? She doesn't know the answer to that question...She's always trying to be someone other people want her to be, that she has forgotten how to be herself. And I solely blame her parents for that, they made her insecure, made her feel like a failure time and time again. That and her feelings of being betrayed, deceived and abandoned by all she holds dear, pull on your heartstrings. I'm glad Raphael helps her become more daring and more secure.
“Trust me.” His low voice brought her attention back to him. He grazed the backs of his fingers down her cheek, drew them down her neck to cup her nape. “I wouldn’t risk exposing you like that. Get wild with me, princess.”
Greer's stalker obviously brings the suspense factor to this book. The stalker is relentless, following her even to Raphael's place. Well this stalker is messing with the wrong guy, eh guys. He and his friends are a package deal.
Looking back I don't dislike anything, it's more that I'm missing certain aspects. I would have liked to see at least Gavin's parents grovel. I'm evil I know. But they treated Greer horribly and I don't know maybe her own parents deserved some terror as well. Looking at the whole book I think it's suspenseful, sensual and the story flows so well that I read it in one sitting. Not many books can keep my attention through out the whole book, but this one managed to do so.
Chay, the last of the foursome. His story is next. Can't wait to read what trouble awaits him…what? The men always get themselves in trouble...
The hysteria breaks the ice and the pierced bad boy has a clear path to unleash his charm on her, making her forget all about cheating ex. Raphael makes her smile and he promises to give her a "ride" she won't forget.
At the end of their “ride” Raphael takes her home but she isn't ready to invite him in so he drives away. She should have invited him in, because when she opens the door to her place, there is her ex. Laying on the floor. Dead. She quickly joins him on the floor.... No she isn't dead, she probably just passed out….?
Next thing she's waking up at the hospital with a detective ready to question her. Seems Greer is the prime suspect in the investigation to her ex's death. And the odds are against her, she has motive, opportunity and a very convenient amnesia. It doesn't look good for Greer at all. Worst of all is that she pretty much has to go through it alone, yes she has her brother and her best friend. But that's it, her parents sure aren't going to help. They have their reputation to think about...
Flash forward to four months later. Greer is semi cleared from all suspicion but she's pregnant and still alone. She hasn't reached out to Raphael at all during the past months, she's afraid and wants to keep him out of her mess. Since Gavin's death all kinds of vile accusations are thrown at her and she's been receiving threats. The last are becoming more and more severe, which frightens her so much that she has no other choice then to contact Raphael. He's the security specialist, if anyone can help her it's him.
Raphael is hurt and angry, he thinks Greer has rejected him. So he's a little skeptical when she suddenly appears on his doorstep, telling him that she's carrying his child…. He doesn't believe her. But the threats are getting out of hand, Raphael is sure she has a stalker and despite his reservations he can't just leave her unprotected. First thing he will do is move her into his house. Safety above all...that's all it's about.....keep telling yourself that Raphael.
This is the third book in the series. The first two told the story about Raphael's other two friends, Gabriel and Malachim. It's not a must to read the previous two before reading this book but you'll enjoy it more and can fully grasp the bond between the four friends if you do read them. I've read them, liked them but this book is my favorite so far. And that mostly has to do with the deep, sympathetic characters, especially Raphael. I think he had me from the get go.
“For the record, I already figured out your ex had a stick up his ass. Now I know he had his head up there, too. Because if he let you go, he’s an idiot.”
This man is raw, strong but still vulnerable and always straightforward. He provides a rare moment of bliss and peace for Greer. After her supposed rejection he keeps his emotional distance but the minute she's in distress he becomes this amazing, gentle man who will do anything for her. And I love him for that. His distance is also linked to a certain woman in his past. She played him good and he won't risk being humiliated or having his heart broken again. I can't understand why this woman would do that, she has no idea what she's missing out on. His words alone makes me melt.
“I don’t, what, princess?” he asked again, lowering his head. The dark, surprisingly fragrant sweep of his hair brushed her cheekbone, tickled her skin. His lips, sensual and firm, grazed her ear. “Want to drag you out of here, lay you across the nearest flat surface, and fuck you until neither one of us can stand? Hell yes, I want it. Want you. But this is me trying to be considerate. Take note. It probably won’t happen again.”
Who are you Greer? She doesn't know the answer to that question...She's always trying to be someone other people want her to be, that she has forgotten how to be herself. And I solely blame her parents for that, they made her insecure, made her feel like a failure time and time again. That and her feelings of being betrayed, deceived and abandoned by all she holds dear, pull on your heartstrings. I'm glad Raphael helps her become more daring and more secure.
“Trust me.” His low voice brought her attention back to him. He grazed the backs of his fingers down her cheek, drew them down her neck to cup her nape. “I wouldn’t risk exposing you like that. Get wild with me, princess.”
Greer's stalker obviously brings the suspense factor to this book. The stalker is relentless, following her even to Raphael's place. Well this stalker is messing with the wrong guy, eh guys. He and his friends are a package deal.
Looking back I don't dislike anything, it's more that I'm missing certain aspects. I would have liked to see at least Gavin's parents grovel. I'm evil I know. But they treated Greer horribly and I don't know maybe her own parents deserved some terror as well. Looking at the whole book I think it's suspenseful, sensual and the story flows so well that I read it in one sitting. Not many books can keep my attention through out the whole book, but this one managed to do so.
Chay, the last of the foursome. His story is next. Can't wait to read what trouble awaits him…what? The men always get themselves in trouble...
November 27, 2022
Audiobook: DNF.Wish the writing wasn’t colorblind. I couldn’t figure out if Greer was a Black woman or not and I assumed she was since the author is. I wasn’t interested in reading this with a white woman as the lead. It only mentions her eyes are green so I’m going with white. Maybe 🤔 Which is odd because how do you write an entire book without mentioning how the woman looks?? Especially if it’s a Black woman or woman of color??? Raphael is described but Greer happens to be basically faceless and it’s hella weird.
April 23, 2014
4 1/2 stars, My question is how have I never heard of this series, I saw this book on Netallery and yes I'm a sucker for the unexpected pregnancy story *don't judge me* so I though yes I want to read this book, but as I was reading I started thinking is this a series because even though I'm not lost( like some series if you don't start at book 1) I still kept reading things that made me say I think this is a seres *yes I know if I paid more attention I would have scene it said book 3*. Now that I know this is a series I just keep thinking how did I miss this because this is a really good book and reading about the previous heros while I am reading this book I know I missed out on 2 really good book before this one.
After finding her now ex-fiance in bed with her now ex-friend Greer went to a bar to drown her sorrows in the loss of two friends. When Raphael walked in Greer couldn't believe her luck just days before while she was still engaged she met Raphael at his business, now with his cocky attitude and his gorgeous appearance Greer finds herself laughing and enjoying his presence and also making the decision that she wants to be with Raphael if only for the night. After spending hours together Raphael dropped off a happy Greer, only to minutes later walk into her apartment to find her ex dead. A few months later with the suspicions still hanging over her head about her guilt Greer's just found out that the night she spent with Raphael has left her pregnant and with someone threatening her she knows that when she tells Raphael her news she will also have to ask for his help.
Raphael can't forget Greer or the night they spend together but finally realizing she didn't want anything more from him after all the attempts he made to contact her Raphael has tried to move on, but Greer walking back into his life to tell him her news has brought back horrible memories from his past and the woman he thought he loved before Greer. Not being able to deny Greer Raphael finds himself offering his protection even thought he isn't sure he can believe the baby is really his.
The more time Greer and Raphael spend together the harder it is for either to deny the feelings they have for each other that grow stronger each day, and the truth that Greer never knew he tried to contact her all those months ago. With the threats escalating Raphael does everything he can to keep Greer and the baby safe, and just when they think all is well the true criminal has other plans for Greer, and Raphael and Greer's baby.
I really liked this book I'm usually good at guessing the twists and this one took me longer than it normally would to guess the villain, I was angry at first thinking someone got away way to easily *if you read any of my reviews you know I'm out for blood and want revenge when one of the characters I love is wronged:}* so when I thought a certain person got off to easy I got irritated but boy I was wrong(and glad I was wrong). Raphael was a great hero, yes he was a jerk at times but he had not just been burned in the past but burned them stomped on them put through the mill so I gave him some leeway and he did not disappoint in making up for his start. Raphael ended up being a great hero who loved Greer and the baby so much. Greer was a great heroine as well, she was strong, and smart and kind.
I wish I had known this was a series so I could have started with book 1 but I will be going back and reading both books I missed as well as reading future books(I know there is at least 1) books still to come in this series. Naima Simone is a great author who drew me in right away and kept my interest through the whole book. I never wanted to skim or skip anything and I found myself picking this book up whenever I could get a chance so that I could read just a little more. Ms. Simone is definitely going to be an author I keep an eye on in the future. I do wish we had an epilogue but thats just because I can never have enough epilogues, but overall this was an excellent book.
*thank you NetGallery and Entangled Publishing, LLC for this ARC copy for my review
After finding her now ex-fiance in bed with her now ex-friend Greer went to a bar to drown her sorrows in the loss of two friends. When Raphael walked in Greer couldn't believe her luck just days before while she was still engaged she met Raphael at his business, now with his cocky attitude and his gorgeous appearance Greer finds herself laughing and enjoying his presence and also making the decision that she wants to be with Raphael if only for the night. After spending hours together Raphael dropped off a happy Greer, only to minutes later walk into her apartment to find her ex dead. A few months later with the suspicions still hanging over her head about her guilt Greer's just found out that the night she spent with Raphael has left her pregnant and with someone threatening her she knows that when she tells Raphael her news she will also have to ask for his help.
Raphael can't forget Greer or the night they spend together but finally realizing she didn't want anything more from him after all the attempts he made to contact her Raphael has tried to move on, but Greer walking back into his life to tell him her news has brought back horrible memories from his past and the woman he thought he loved before Greer. Not being able to deny Greer Raphael finds himself offering his protection even thought he isn't sure he can believe the baby is really his.
The more time Greer and Raphael spend together the harder it is for either to deny the feelings they have for each other that grow stronger each day, and the truth that Greer never knew he tried to contact her all those months ago. With the threats escalating Raphael does everything he can to keep Greer and the baby safe, and just when they think all is well the true criminal has other plans for Greer, and Raphael and Greer's baby.
I really liked this book I'm usually good at guessing the twists and this one took me longer than it normally would to guess the villain, I was angry at first thinking someone got away way to easily *if you read any of my reviews you know I'm out for blood and want revenge when one of the characters I love is wronged:}* so when I thought a certain person got off to easy I got irritated but boy I was wrong(and glad I was wrong). Raphael was a great hero, yes he was a jerk at times but he had not just been burned in the past but burned them stomped on them put through the mill so I gave him some leeway and he did not disappoint in making up for his start. Raphael ended up being a great hero who loved Greer and the baby so much. Greer was a great heroine as well, she was strong, and smart and kind.
I wish I had known this was a series so I could have started with book 1 but I will be going back and reading both books I missed as well as reading future books(I know there is at least 1) books still to come in this series. Naima Simone is a great author who drew me in right away and kept my interest through the whole book. I never wanted to skim or skip anything and I found myself picking this book up whenever I could get a chance so that I could read just a little more. Ms. Simone is definitely going to be an author I keep an eye on in the future. I do wish we had an epilogue but thats just because I can never have enough epilogues, but overall this was an excellent book.
*thank you NetGallery and Entangled Publishing, LLC for this ARC copy for my review
August 11, 2017
I got a copy of this book from Entangled Publishing, LLC in exchange of an honest review
Raphael was a romantic suspense novel and thankfully an enjoyable one. It was well-written, the mystery was not too predictable. And I just enjoyed the book as a whole. With a hot and sexy like Raphael and a smart, strong and independent woman like Greer, it's hard not to.
When Greer Addison walks in on her fiance in bed with another woman, she is heart broken and hurt. Her parents are disappointed in her for calling off the engagement and the only person standing by her side is her brother Ethan. When she spends a night with her brother trying to get drunk, she runs into Raphael Marcel. A hot and sexy security expert and the one man who could set her on fire.
A one-night stand in the backseat of Rafe's SUV is the best thing to happen to her in quite a while. But things take a turn for the worse when she walks into her house to find her ex-fiancee, Gavin, murdered. What's more? She is the prime suspect. And she can't remember anything about that night since Raphael dropped her off at her doorstep.
Four months later, Greer finds herself in front of Raphael again. Pregnant and scared. Someone has been stalking and harassing her, going as far as to vandalize her car and leaving bombs and mutilated dolls. Hearing about the pregnancy, Raphael is skeptical and distrustful of Greer but willing to protect her at any cost.
The race to find Gavin's killer is on. With already many lives lost in the interim, Raphael and Greer have to find to who is trying to harm Greer, because her memories are coming back. And that just means more trouble.
Overall it was well written and quite enjoyable. It was not as predictable as I thought it would be. In fact the person I thought was the culprit ended up being a victim. Both Raphael and Greer have has a painful past and that makes them wary of each other. No matter how hard they try to drop the wall, something always holds them back. It takes some time and a lot of effort for both of them to come out of their shells.
Trust and friendships play an important role in both Greer and Raphael's lives. Being the daughter of a man who does not care about anyone but himself, who has only undermined and insulted Greer at every turn, and a mother who never stood up for her children, she values friendship a lot. That is one relationship in her life she knows will never betray her. Raphael on the other other hand is bound to his friends with a murder and absentee/asshole fathers. His friends are as good a brothers to him.
The only thing I wished for was a resolution for Greer. When she was first suspected of murder, Gavin's parents had made her life hell. Insulted and harassed her at every point. So, I wished when she was cleared, they should have at least apologized to her. I also wanted some sort of resolution between Greer and her parents, but her parents being what they are, I never had much hope.
But the book was overall an enjoyable read, emotional and action-packed. Definitely recommended.
Raphael was a romantic suspense novel and thankfully an enjoyable one. It was well-written, the mystery was not too predictable. And I just enjoyed the book as a whole. With a hot and sexy like Raphael and a smart, strong and independent woman like Greer, it's hard not to.
When Greer Addison walks in on her fiance in bed with another woman, she is heart broken and hurt. Her parents are disappointed in her for calling off the engagement and the only person standing by her side is her brother Ethan. When she spends a night with her brother trying to get drunk, she runs into Raphael Marcel. A hot and sexy security expert and the one man who could set her on fire.
A one-night stand in the backseat of Rafe's SUV is the best thing to happen to her in quite a while. But things take a turn for the worse when she walks into her house to find her ex-fiancee, Gavin, murdered. What's more? She is the prime suspect. And she can't remember anything about that night since Raphael dropped her off at her doorstep.
Four months later, Greer finds herself in front of Raphael again. Pregnant and scared. Someone has been stalking and harassing her, going as far as to vandalize her car and leaving bombs and mutilated dolls. Hearing about the pregnancy, Raphael is skeptical and distrustful of Greer but willing to protect her at any cost.
The race to find Gavin's killer is on. With already many lives lost in the interim, Raphael and Greer have to find to who is trying to harm Greer, because her memories are coming back. And that just means more trouble.
Overall it was well written and quite enjoyable. It was not as predictable as I thought it would be. In fact the person I thought was the culprit ended up being a victim. Both Raphael and Greer have has a painful past and that makes them wary of each other. No matter how hard they try to drop the wall, something always holds them back. It takes some time and a lot of effort for both of them to come out of their shells.
Trust and friendships play an important role in both Greer and Raphael's lives. Being the daughter of a man who does not care about anyone but himself, who has only undermined and insulted Greer at every turn, and a mother who never stood up for her children, she values friendship a lot. That is one relationship in her life she knows will never betray her. Raphael on the other other hand is bound to his friends with a murder and absentee/asshole fathers. His friends are as good a brothers to him.
The only thing I wished for was a resolution for Greer. When she was first suspected of murder, Gavin's parents had made her life hell. Insulted and harassed her at every point. So, I wished when she was cleared, they should have at least apologized to her. I also wanted some sort of resolution between Greer and her parents, but her parents being what they are, I never had much hope.
But the book was overall an enjoyable read, emotional and action-packed. Definitely recommended.
May 5, 2014
I received this book from Netgalley for my honest review.
For me this is a 3 and 1/2 stars.
I like this series, so I keep reading it. I liked it because of the heroes. The four friends that will do everything for each other. I admire that!
The weak link for me in this, and the previous two stories are the heroines. They're supposed to be damisel-in-distress, and actually they are, but for me they're weak, weak, weak. And I don't like it.
OK, they have secrects, but, even when the hero does everything and anything to help them, they keep keeping these secrets! That's so wrong!
Here we have Greer, a woman with amnesia due to a head trauma inflicted her by an unknown person when she found her ex-finace dead, brutally murdered, in her home. She doesn't remember anything after the blow and it is then that her problems starts: she's suspected of his murder.
So, now I'm asking myself, how the police could doubt her story? How could she give herself such a blow on the back of her head? Is she a contortionist? That was very illogical, but nobody thought to notice that inconsitence!!!
Also the real killer is quite strange: !!! Mah... and here too nobody thought about it!!!???
What are disliked very strongly are her parents. What a bunch of hateful, distatesful, odious people! Her mother almost more than her father!!!!
Still, I like how Ms. Simone writes. Her style is very nice and, even with all the problems I had, I still enjoyed this book and will continue reading this series. I'm curious to know what Chay's story will be!
For me this is a 3 and 1/2 stars.
I like this series, so I keep reading it. I liked it because of the heroes. The four friends that will do everything for each other. I admire that!
The weak link for me in this, and the previous two stories are the heroines. They're supposed to be damisel-in-distress, and actually they are, but for me they're weak, weak, weak. And I don't like it.
OK, they have secrects, but, even when the hero does everything and anything to help them, they keep keeping these secrets! That's so wrong!
Here we have Greer, a woman with amnesia due to a head trauma inflicted her by an unknown person when she found her ex-finace dead, brutally murdered, in her home. She doesn't remember anything after the blow and it is then that her problems starts: she's suspected of his murder.
So, now I'm asking myself, how the police could doubt her story? How could she give herself such a blow on the back of her head? Is she a contortionist? That was very illogical, but nobody thought to notice that inconsitence!!!
Also the real killer is quite strange: !!! Mah... and here too nobody thought about it!!!???
What are disliked very strongly are her parents. What a bunch of hateful, distatesful, odious people! Her mother almost more than her father!!!!
Still, I like how Ms. Simone writes. Her style is very nice and, even with all the problems I had, I still enjoyed this book and will continue reading this series. I'm curious to know what Chay's story will be!
May 13, 2014
This book would have gotten four stars if it weren't for Raphael constantly blaming Greer for the past sins of his exgirlfriend. The story was great, character development was pretty awesome (although it would have been really nice to see Greer's parents get run over by a bus at some point). Actually an epilogue to finish the book would have made it a 5 star read. The ending was just that, no closure, just ended.
May 4, 2014
4 1/2 stars
March 25, 2018
Holy moly how I love a hot computer geek lol. In Chay’s Book he is compared to Dave Navarro and I like that but not quite what I pictured when I read the book. The bad guy situation was better than Chay’s book which I would have rated higher if not for that.
And him showing her how she is special and important despite how her dipshit parents and friends didn’t was sooo sweet and cry worthy. So sad Noah didn’t get a resolution sigh... I was hoping for a book to redeem himself lol.
And her brother Ethan’s and Jason? While not into m/m I have read one or two in a series like Laura Kaye and JR Ward that only had 1 m/m in it and it wasn’t too cringe worthy I just skipped over the actual *deed* but the intimacy and realtionship was good. Interested to see if this author will write their story. I think that Chay may have been last one though.
So far both are tied on best one in series, I haven’t read Gabe or Mal yet. But think Rafe and Chay are up there as the best dirty talkers I have read. Naima guys in general are all diiiiirrrtttty talkers out of ones I read so far. Nothing better in a romance than a guy not afraid to say it like it is lol. I would be bright red in real life but man it is hot.....
And him showing her how she is special and important despite how her dipshit parents and friends didn’t was sooo sweet and cry worthy. So sad Noah didn’t get a resolution sigh... I was hoping for a book to redeem himself lol.
And her brother Ethan’s and Jason? While not into m/m I have read one or two in a series like Laura Kaye and JR Ward that only had 1 m/m in it and it wasn’t too cringe worthy I just skipped over the actual *deed* but the intimacy and realtionship was good. Interested to see if this author will write their story. I think that Chay may have been last one though.
So far both are tied on best one in series, I haven’t read Gabe or Mal yet. But think Rafe and Chay are up there as the best dirty talkers I have read. Naima guys in general are all diiiiirrrtttty talkers out of ones I read so far. Nothing better in a romance than a guy not afraid to say it like it is lol. I would be bright red in real life but man it is hot.....
September 2, 2025
I thought this was better than the previous books. The narration was good. The storyline was intriguing and the stalker/murderer was not as obvious as you might expect.
I have to admit that I was a little confused. I can't quite put my finger on what I read that sent me in this direction. I initially thought Greer and Rafe were an ethnic couple or they were an IR couple. At some point I thought they weren't in part because of their descriptions. There was a vibe about the book that left me wondering. It wasn't an element that would make or break the book, but it left me with a feeling of ambiguity.
I felt badly for Greer because she was betrayed so often in this book. Meeting Rafe and his friends would definitely end up in her plus column. I also appreciated that even when Rafe wasn't sure he wasn't cruel or dismissive. He was still protective and supportive. I wish there had been an epilogue. It would have been nice to have more than one scene of Rafe and Greer being "together" in an actual relationship. Rating:3.5 stars.
I have to admit that I was a little confused. I can't quite put my finger on what I read that sent me in this direction. I initially thought Greer and Rafe were an ethnic couple or they were an IR couple. At some point I thought they weren't in part because of their descriptions. There was a vibe about the book that left me wondering. It wasn't an element that would make or break the book, but it left me with a feeling of ambiguity.
I felt badly for Greer because she was betrayed so often in this book. Meeting Rafe and his friends would definitely end up in her plus column. I also appreciated that even when Rafe wasn't sure he wasn't cruel or dismissive. He was still protective and supportive. I wish there had been an epilogue. It would have been nice to have more than one scene of Rafe and Greer being "together" in an actual relationship. Rating:3.5 stars.
January 27, 2023
The storyline outside the romance was a bit cheesy (the person behind the murders and the rationale was eye roll worthy). This had some unrealistic elements as well such as…Raphael insisted that Greer move in with him so he could protect her…after a one night stand? Why would he? Also, Greer still lived with her emotionally abusive parents even though she’s an adult with a college degree? Why would she move back into that situation? This made zero sense. Her male bestie was in love with her but she’s clueless? Have a hard time believing that.
As an aside I also didn’t like that Greer’s bestie was killed out of the story so that (I presume) there’s a clear path for Raphael and Greer to have a HEA.
As an aside I also didn’t like that Greer’s bestie was killed out of the story so that (I presume) there’s a clear path for Raphael and Greer to have a HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2020
Best book in the series so far. I couldn't guess or predict a single thing that happened, I kept thinking one thing, then something would happen to change my mind, then the same thing would happen with my next suspicion. This was such a great read and my favorite so far. I literally had no idea what was going to happen, who was behind all the scary stuff, nothing. A real suspense.
November 26, 2017
You loved it
These books are always good to keep you guessing who the villain is. I love it. I love wondering up until the end, usually I can guess about half way through, but these books are great! And hot, too. ;)
These books are always good to keep you guessing who the villain is. I love it. I love wondering up until the end, usually I can guess about half way through, but these books are great! And hot, too. ;)
September 26, 2021
I have been savoring this series…reading one book every few months because I don’t want it to end.
Raphael and Greer…sigh. Bring on the swoon, the grumpiness, the sexy, the mystery. It's just everything in one book.
Raphael and Greer…sigh. Bring on the swoon, the grumpiness, the sexy, the mystery. It's just everything in one book.
September 1, 2020
Loved that it had suspense, romance & sizzle in it.
Read
September 3, 2020Sorry file corrupted and didn't have a change to download it again before it was archived.
April 23, 2014
When a little girls fantasizes about who she’ll be when she grows up, she envisions a mother, wife, doctor, teacher, lawyer. Even a princess.
She doesn’t see herself bellied up to the bar of a neighborhood pub a week before her wedding day because she caught her now ex-fiance in bed with another woman.
Secrets and Sins: Raphael is the third book in author Naima Simone’s Secrets and Sins series. Raphael’s book can be read as a stand-alone but the series is sequential so keep that in mind. If you want to start with the first book in the series, read Secrets and Sins: Gabriel, first. I didn’t realize Secrets and Sins: Raphael was part of a series when I started reading it. I haven’t read the other books in the series and could tell as I read this book that previous story lines and plots were being referenced. If you read Raphael’s book without having read the first two stories, expect some spoilers on the earlier books. That being said, I had no problem jumping into this story.
Secrets and Sins: Raphael is a romantic suspense story told from dual points of view of the main characters, Greer and Raphael. Greer is heartbroken when she walks in on her fiancé having sex with another woman. She immediately calls off the wedding and shortly after, finds comfort in the arms of Raphael, a bad-ass, tattooed and pierced security expert. After a very steamy one night stand, Raphael drops Greer at her house and leaves. Unfortunately, Greer walks in to find her fiancé dead. She ends up unconscious with no memory of what happened and ultimately must reach out to Raphael for help.
As a big fan of all different types of romantic suspense, I’m surprised I haven’t run across this series before. It was well written and enjoyable. The pacing was good throughout. I love a book that starts with a bang and this one certainly did. There’s no long lead in before the steamy parts start. Car hook up? Hot! And the rest of the steamy bits weren’t bad at all!
“I’ve been dreaming about tasting you. Not knowing how you feel against my tongue has been driving me crazy. My only regret from that night is not putting my mouth on you.” He paused in sliding down her shorts, cupped her sex over the blue cotton. Oh, God she silently cried out, bowing into the caress. Just one touch, and he’d shoved her toward an orgasm looming just beyond her reach. One. Touch. “So how about it, princess? Will you come in my mouth? Will you let me find out if reality lives up to fantasy?”
….
“From the moment I saw you sitting all prim and proper in Chay’s office, all I’ve wanted to do is dirty you up. Put my hard, rough hands on your soft skin, mark you, see you sweaty and messy and know I did that to you. I made you come undone- shit, just come. And while everyone else seems the composed, gorgeous lady, only I know what lies beneath. Only I know how wild you get. How loud you get. How wet you get.” His smile had disappeared, and a hard need replaced the teasing sensuality, tautening his features, darkening his eyes. “Our secret. So ‘princess’ isn’t a slight. It’s a reminder. Of what I want, what I had, and no matter how fucking stupid it is, what I crave more of.”
I really liked these characters together. I don’t want to give anything away but they both had pretty big hang ups and although relevant, I thought both characters issues became redundant after a certain point. There was also a lot of inner monologue for both characters and at times it seemed a bit excessive.
Overall, I really liked this book. I recommend this book for fans of romantic suspense that don’t mind cliché story lines. Yes, this was a bit of a guilty pleasure but I still really liked it. I’m a little disappointed that I started with the third book in the series because I definitely plan to go back and read the first two soon and I like to read books that are tied together in order normally. Four slightly guilty pleasure stars!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
September 10, 2016
4.5 Stars
Sometimes when you read a book you just instantly click with the characters, and for me this was one of those books. Greer was everything I look for in a heroine – she was strong, determined, resilient, honest, and kind. What I most loved though, was that no matter what life was dealing her – and she often was given the short straw - she dealt with it head on, never backing down, and usually with a great sense of humor.
And Raphael…well let me just tell you that he is definitely in my top three when it comes to fictional characters that I would want guarding me! He is honest, real, and a sexy as sin bad boy who has done good for himself. And did I mention the tattoos? From his first interaction with her at the bar, to him going all uber-protective alpha-male on Greer when she comes to him for help, I couldn’t help but fall in love with him. Even though Raphael has some trust issues and has been scarred by a previous relationship, he couldn’t help but do whatever he could to help Greer. It was fun to watch the two of them together try to fight the attraction (which doesn’t even begin to describe the sparks jumping between these two!) that they had going on, and it was wonderful to see them finally give in and begin to trust one another.
The story itself was great – I loved the mystery surrounding who was setting Greer up and the why behind it. Just when I thought I had it all figured out there was another twist or turn that kept me guessing or adding another piece to the puzzle. The relationships of the characters were great – Raphael and his friends were so tight and I loved how Greer and her brother were so close despite growing up in household that didn’t contain much love. Even the bad guys had personality – which sometimes doesn’t get well developed in books.
Naima Simone has written a fabulous book that had me from the first page. Her writing sucked me and had me living the book with the characters. Her dialogue was spot on and I just loved being able to read the emotions of her characters on the page…
I can’t wait to go back and read the first two books in this series and then get my hands on the next book when it comes out.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher for an honest review.
Sometimes when you read a book you just instantly click with the characters, and for me this was one of those books. Greer was everything I look for in a heroine – she was strong, determined, resilient, honest, and kind. What I most loved though, was that no matter what life was dealing her – and she often was given the short straw - she dealt with it head on, never backing down, and usually with a great sense of humor.
“Aubrey had been a friend since high school; Greer had trusted her, would’ve never believed her capable of cheating with Gavin. She’d tried to apologize, called Greer nonstop the week after, begging her to talk to her. But what did a person say in that situation? Sorry I fucked the man you intended to marry. I accidentally stripped off my clothes and fell on his dick. Even Hallmark hadn’t made a card for that occasion yet.”
And Raphael…well let me just tell you that he is definitely in my top three when it comes to fictional characters that I would want guarding me! He is honest, real, and a sexy as sin bad boy who has done good for himself. And did I mention the tattoos? From his first interaction with her at the bar, to him going all uber-protective alpha-male on Greer when she comes to him for help, I couldn’t help but fall in love with him. Even though Raphael has some trust issues and has been scarred by a previous relationship, he couldn’t help but do whatever he could to help Greer. It was fun to watch the two of them together try to fight the attraction (which doesn’t even begin to describe the sparks jumping between these two!) that they had going on, and it was wonderful to see them finally give in and begin to trust one another.
The story itself was great – I loved the mystery surrounding who was setting Greer up and the why behind it. Just when I thought I had it all figured out there was another twist or turn that kept me guessing or adding another piece to the puzzle. The relationships of the characters were great – Raphael and his friends were so tight and I loved how Greer and her brother were so close despite growing up in household that didn’t contain much love. Even the bad guys had personality – which sometimes doesn’t get well developed in books.
Naima Simone has written a fabulous book that had me from the first page. Her writing sucked me and had me living the book with the characters. Her dialogue was spot on and I just loved being able to read the emotions of her characters on the page…
“In the past four months,” she said, suddenly very tired, “I’ve discovered a man I respected and trusted – a man who was not just my fiancé but a good friend – betrayed me. A woman I also called a friend was screwing that fiancé behind my back. And when I was accused of his murder, my parents abandoned me. They were never affectionate, but still…they were my mother and father. I expected them to at least stand by me even if it was to maintain the image of a loving family. Instead they threw me to the wolves. People I knew, loved, relied on…believed in. And they deceived me, hurt me, threw me away. Raphael, if one more person I trust turns out to be…” She didn’t finish the thought, but inhaled a shuddering breath, shaking her head. “I think it would break me. So yes, I was happy when I didn’t recognize the man on the video. Because it means one more person I love doesn’t resent or despise me.”
I can’t wait to go back and read the first two books in this series and then get my hands on the next book when it comes out.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher for an honest review.
April 30, 2014
Secrets and Sins: Raphael, Naima Simone
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
I missed the first in this series, but loved the second, Malachim, so was pleased to get book three for review. I love the way the four men are so close, their childhoods were all different, and yet they each had problems that brought them together, cemented by an incident in which they all helped cover up a man's death. Awful you think – but it was self defence, and when it finally came out many years later they were cleared of murder.
Raphael is determined not to get caught a second time in a pregnancy trap – last time he thought he was the father, then a DNA test proved the woman he thought he loved had been lying to him all along. He's not going to get fooled a second time, so when Greer comes to him after their one hot night and says she's pregnant and its his child he isn't convinced, though she says she hadn't been having sex with her fiancé. He's been murdered, and for a while she was the main suspect, now someone is targeting her with threats and she's concerned for herself and the baby. She's hurt that he doesn't believe her, but not surprised. She knows nothing of his history but can see from his look that he isn't convinced. Still, he is in the business of security and takes her into his home for protection. The threats escalate from letters to car vandalising to attempts to kidnap her...and all the while she and Raphael are fighting a sizzling, sensual attraction. Greer doesn't want to rely on yet another person who will let her down, the only ones so far not to have done are her brother and her best friend Noah. She low on self esteem, and thinks Raphael will get tired of her, bored with her and let her go. She knows that will leave her broken hearted, already she has deep feelings for him, so she's trying to keep herself detached. Its tough though with a sensual, hot man helping her, especially when she sees a kinder, softer side to him. I loved Greer, she was tough – she'd had to be with parents like hers, and strongly independent and yet she accepted help for the sake of the baby. Sensible balance between relying on someone for everything and being so stubborn she's risking danger.
Raphael, wow – hot or what! That one night in the back-seat of his truck was far hotter and meant more to Greer than anything she'd experienced before. She knew she didn't love her fiancé, nor he her, but thought they had enough respect and closeness to make a successful marriage, plus she'd finally done something her domineering father was proud of. She didn't want to be like her mother, so obsessed with love she ignored her children and let their dad emotionally abuse them. Raphael is protecting her as best he can while his friends help him untangle the mystery of who and why Greer's life is being threatened. He lets Greer help where she can without getting into danger, and respects her as an intelligent person. He's getting to know her too, and finding she's not the shallow socialite he thought she was, like the lady who let him down before, but still he's trying to keep himself from getting attached.
Its a great read, sensual and seductive with elements of danger that need to be solved. I didn't guess “who dunnit” - got that very wrong....and that's great as it shows how well the mystery was covered up. Sometimes its obvious who the perpetrator is and I'd much rather be kept in suspense til the end.
Stars: Five, its a great read, one for the keeper files for re reading. I look forward to the next story.
ARC supplied via Netgalley
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
I missed the first in this series, but loved the second, Malachim, so was pleased to get book three for review. I love the way the four men are so close, their childhoods were all different, and yet they each had problems that brought them together, cemented by an incident in which they all helped cover up a man's death. Awful you think – but it was self defence, and when it finally came out many years later they were cleared of murder.
Raphael is determined not to get caught a second time in a pregnancy trap – last time he thought he was the father, then a DNA test proved the woman he thought he loved had been lying to him all along. He's not going to get fooled a second time, so when Greer comes to him after their one hot night and says she's pregnant and its his child he isn't convinced, though she says she hadn't been having sex with her fiancé. He's been murdered, and for a while she was the main suspect, now someone is targeting her with threats and she's concerned for herself and the baby. She's hurt that he doesn't believe her, but not surprised. She knows nothing of his history but can see from his look that he isn't convinced. Still, he is in the business of security and takes her into his home for protection. The threats escalate from letters to car vandalising to attempts to kidnap her...and all the while she and Raphael are fighting a sizzling, sensual attraction. Greer doesn't want to rely on yet another person who will let her down, the only ones so far not to have done are her brother and her best friend Noah. She low on self esteem, and thinks Raphael will get tired of her, bored with her and let her go. She knows that will leave her broken hearted, already she has deep feelings for him, so she's trying to keep herself detached. Its tough though with a sensual, hot man helping her, especially when she sees a kinder, softer side to him. I loved Greer, she was tough – she'd had to be with parents like hers, and strongly independent and yet she accepted help for the sake of the baby. Sensible balance between relying on someone for everything and being so stubborn she's risking danger.
Raphael, wow – hot or what! That one night in the back-seat of his truck was far hotter and meant more to Greer than anything she'd experienced before. She knew she didn't love her fiancé, nor he her, but thought they had enough respect and closeness to make a successful marriage, plus she'd finally done something her domineering father was proud of. She didn't want to be like her mother, so obsessed with love she ignored her children and let their dad emotionally abuse them. Raphael is protecting her as best he can while his friends help him untangle the mystery of who and why Greer's life is being threatened. He lets Greer help where she can without getting into danger, and respects her as an intelligent person. He's getting to know her too, and finding she's not the shallow socialite he thought she was, like the lady who let him down before, but still he's trying to keep himself from getting attached.
Its a great read, sensual and seductive with elements of danger that need to be solved. I didn't guess “who dunnit” - got that very wrong....and that's great as it shows how well the mystery was covered up. Sometimes its obvious who the perpetrator is and I'd much rather be kept in suspense til the end.
Stars: Five, its a great read, one for the keeper files for re reading. I look forward to the next story.
ARC supplied via Netgalley
April 29, 2014
First reviewed at Red Hot Books here: http://redhotbooks.com/2014/04/review...
Secrets and Sins: Raphael is the third book in the Secrets and Sins series by Naima Simone. This book was my first experience with Ms. Simone’s work and I am so glad I decided to give it a shot! The series focuses on a group of four men, Gabriel, Malachim, Raphael and Chayot, who have been friends since they were babies. This installment focuses on Rafe, a hot, tattooed, alpha male who owns a security company with Chayot, and Greer Addison, a privileged, upper class woman who has been framed for her cheating ex-fiancee’s murder.
Finding out her fiancé had been cheating on her with her best-friend was bad but when Greer’s father tells her to get over it and get back with the fiancé for business reasons, it’s too much to handle and she heads to a bar to drink the hurt away. While at the bar she runs in to Raphael, the sexy security specialist who Greer and her ex had met with a week earlier to discuss issues with the bank Greer’s father owns. Rafe is the opposite of the men Greer normally associates with, but his sexy rocker look and complete sex appeal draw her in. She decides to throw caution to the wind and the two have smoking hot sex in the back seat of his vehicle on a public street.
When Rafe drops Greer off at her house she walks in and finds her cheating ex dead on the floor. The next thing she knows, she awakens in the hospital with a splitting headache and as the number one suspect in Gavin’s murder. Rafe validates her alibi, but she is too humiliated to speak to him and leaves the police station with her brother, and still the prime suspect. Flash forward four months and Greer is living with her brother, pregnant with Rafe’s baby and feeling completely alone in the world. When she starts remembering glimpses of the crime, and starts receiving threatening letters and creepy packages, Greer heads to the one person she knows will protect her and her baby – Raphael.
Poor Rafe – his one night stand from months ago shows up at his office and announces that not only is someone threatening her, but she is also pregnant and claiming he’s the father. Experience has made him jaded and he can’t help but question if in fact he is the father. Regardless, Rafe immediately moves Greer in to his house to ensure that her and the baby are safe from whoever is threatening her, and he begins to see a side to her that he never imagined was there.
With Greer having flashbacks of the night Gavin was murdered, the killer steps up the plans to remove the only witness to the crime. While trying to figure out who was behind the vicious crime, the two slowly begin to get to know each other and let down the walls that their pasts have built. Greer gets to know Rafe’s best-friends and from that interaction I can’t wait to go back and read the two earlier books. I also suspect that Chay’s book is going to be very emotional but I still can’t wait to read it!
Smoking hot sex scenes, fast paced mystery and a couple that were relatable and loveable, make this a satisfying, keep you guessing story. Thankfully the next one comes out in July according to the blurb at the back of the book so I won’t have to wait too long to read the conclusion of the series!
Rating: A-
Secrets and Sins: Raphael is the third book in the Secrets and Sins series by Naima Simone. This book was my first experience with Ms. Simone’s work and I am so glad I decided to give it a shot! The series focuses on a group of four men, Gabriel, Malachim, Raphael and Chayot, who have been friends since they were babies. This installment focuses on Rafe, a hot, tattooed, alpha male who owns a security company with Chayot, and Greer Addison, a privileged, upper class woman who has been framed for her cheating ex-fiancee’s murder.
Finding out her fiancé had been cheating on her with her best-friend was bad but when Greer’s father tells her to get over it and get back with the fiancé for business reasons, it’s too much to handle and she heads to a bar to drink the hurt away. While at the bar she runs in to Raphael, the sexy security specialist who Greer and her ex had met with a week earlier to discuss issues with the bank Greer’s father owns. Rafe is the opposite of the men Greer normally associates with, but his sexy rocker look and complete sex appeal draw her in. She decides to throw caution to the wind and the two have smoking hot sex in the back seat of his vehicle on a public street.
When Rafe drops Greer off at her house she walks in and finds her cheating ex dead on the floor. The next thing she knows, she awakens in the hospital with a splitting headache and as the number one suspect in Gavin’s murder. Rafe validates her alibi, but she is too humiliated to speak to him and leaves the police station with her brother, and still the prime suspect. Flash forward four months and Greer is living with her brother, pregnant with Rafe’s baby and feeling completely alone in the world. When she starts remembering glimpses of the crime, and starts receiving threatening letters and creepy packages, Greer heads to the one person she knows will protect her and her baby – Raphael.
Poor Rafe – his one night stand from months ago shows up at his office and announces that not only is someone threatening her, but she is also pregnant and claiming he’s the father. Experience has made him jaded and he can’t help but question if in fact he is the father. Regardless, Rafe immediately moves Greer in to his house to ensure that her and the baby are safe from whoever is threatening her, and he begins to see a side to her that he never imagined was there.
With Greer having flashbacks of the night Gavin was murdered, the killer steps up the plans to remove the only witness to the crime. While trying to figure out who was behind the vicious crime, the two slowly begin to get to know each other and let down the walls that their pasts have built. Greer gets to know Rafe’s best-friends and from that interaction I can’t wait to go back and read the two earlier books. I also suspect that Chay’s book is going to be very emotional but I still can’t wait to read it!
Smoking hot sex scenes, fast paced mystery and a couple that were relatable and loveable, make this a satisfying, keep you guessing story. Thankfully the next one comes out in July according to the blurb at the back of the book so I won’t have to wait too long to read the conclusion of the series!
Rating: A-
May 6, 2014
Greer realizes that her life is not going to go as planned when she walks in on her fiancé in bed with another woman. Even though she didn’t truly love him, she thought he cared enough about her to not do something like that. When she goes to a bar with her brother to forget about her problems for a while, she finds none other than Raphael. She is wildly attracted to him and he is attracted to her as well. When they decide to give in to their desires, let me tell you it is HOT, HOT, HOT!!
When Raphael drops her off at home, she is on cloud nine and thinks that maybe she could see him again. However, when she opens her door she is in for a wild surprise when she finds her ex-fiancé dead on her floor. She is knocked unconscious by the intruder and when she wakes in the hospital, she has no memory of what happened. Of course, she is the prime suspect in the murder until Raphael gives her an alibi.
Soon she learns that the hateful mail she has been getting is more than meets the eye. When the threats start escalating, she has no choice but to turn to Raphael for help. She just hopes that when he finds out she is pregnant that he will not be too angry that she didn’t tell him sooner.
Raphael has wanted Greer from the first moment he meets her and can’t believe his luck when he finally gets her. He really wants to be with her again, but he doesn’t want to get hurt. When she shows up at his office asking for help, he can’t believe what is going on and that she is pregnant. He feels like his past is coming back to haunt him. Can he really trust that the baby is his? If he does and she denies him his child will he survive? He has such trust issues that he has a hard time accepting what she is saying. However, he does know that he has to keep her safe and find out who is after her and why.
When Greer moves into Raphael’s house so he can keep her safe, you could cut the tension with a knife. Both want each other, but are not sure if they can trust each other. When Raphael starts getting glimpse of who Greer is, he is truly moved. She is the most honest, caring, compassionate person he has ever met and he becomes more and more determined to keep her safe.
It seems as though no protection he can give Greer is enough as the threats soon make their way right to his doorstep. He is at a loss as to what to do, he can’t stand the thought of losing her. He is doing everything he can to find out who is after her, but he is always turning up dead ends. When he leaves her for the day and arranges someone to come stay with her, Rafe believes she will be safe. However, that is the farthest from the truth. Greer is kidnapped right in front of his house and no one is around to save her.
Will Rafe make it to Greer in time to save her? Will they ever find out who is after her and why? Will Rafe and Greer finally overcome their past and get their own HEA? In order to find out you will need to get the book. I PROMISE you will not be disappointed. If you love Romantic Suspense books, this one is just for you. The book kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I can truly say that I didn’t suspect the person who was responsible to be who it was, totally didn’t see it coming. Don’t miss out on this great read, make sure to get your copy today!
When Raphael drops her off at home, she is on cloud nine and thinks that maybe she could see him again. However, when she opens her door she is in for a wild surprise when she finds her ex-fiancé dead on her floor. She is knocked unconscious by the intruder and when she wakes in the hospital, she has no memory of what happened. Of course, she is the prime suspect in the murder until Raphael gives her an alibi.
Soon she learns that the hateful mail she has been getting is more than meets the eye. When the threats start escalating, she has no choice but to turn to Raphael for help. She just hopes that when he finds out she is pregnant that he will not be too angry that she didn’t tell him sooner.
Raphael has wanted Greer from the first moment he meets her and can’t believe his luck when he finally gets her. He really wants to be with her again, but he doesn’t want to get hurt. When she shows up at his office asking for help, he can’t believe what is going on and that she is pregnant. He feels like his past is coming back to haunt him. Can he really trust that the baby is his? If he does and she denies him his child will he survive? He has such trust issues that he has a hard time accepting what she is saying. However, he does know that he has to keep her safe and find out who is after her and why.
When Greer moves into Raphael’s house so he can keep her safe, you could cut the tension with a knife. Both want each other, but are not sure if they can trust each other. When Raphael starts getting glimpse of who Greer is, he is truly moved. She is the most honest, caring, compassionate person he has ever met and he becomes more and more determined to keep her safe.
It seems as though no protection he can give Greer is enough as the threats soon make their way right to his doorstep. He is at a loss as to what to do, he can’t stand the thought of losing her. He is doing everything he can to find out who is after her, but he is always turning up dead ends. When he leaves her for the day and arranges someone to come stay with her, Rafe believes she will be safe. However, that is the farthest from the truth. Greer is kidnapped right in front of his house and no one is around to save her.
Will Rafe make it to Greer in time to save her? Will they ever find out who is after her and why? Will Rafe and Greer finally overcome their past and get their own HEA? In order to find out you will need to get the book. I PROMISE you will not be disappointed. If you love Romantic Suspense books, this one is just for you. The book kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I can truly say that I didn’t suspect the person who was responsible to be who it was, totally didn’t see it coming. Don’t miss out on this great read, make sure to get your copy today!
May 28, 2014
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 28, 2014
BLURB
When Greer Addison finds her future husband in bed with another woman, she runs…right into the arms of dark and dangerous Raphael Marcel. Angry and hurt, she throws caution to the wind and spends a hot night with the sexy security specialist. But when her fiancé is found dead, Greer becomes the main suspect of a crime she can’t remember.
Raphael is stunned and suspicious when Greer shows up on his doorstep claiming she’s carrying his baby. Worse, she’s the target of a stalker bent on making her pay for a murder she doesn’t recall. As Raphael begins to trust Greer, they must race against the clock to uncover a killer…..because Greer’s memory is returning.
~~~~~~~~~~
REVIEW: SECRETS AND SINS: RAPHAEL is the third instalment in Naima Simone’s contemporary, adult, erotic Secrets and Sins romance series but can be read as a stand alone. This is Raphael Marcel and Greer Addison’s story. Raphael is the tatted and pierced bad boy and co-owner of Liberty Security Services and Greer has been targeted by an unknown source.
The focus of the storyline is Greer’s protection and the building relationship between Greer and Raphael. Following a one night stand with the sexy Raphael, Greer walked into a gruesome murder scene-her ex fiancé was dead and she was the prime suspect. Four months later, Greer broke down and hired Raphael as her personal security guard but many things had changed for Greer in the ensuing months and Raphael soon learns that Greer is pregnant and he is the father.
Naima Simone pulls the reader into a storyline of murder, mystery, suspense and romance. The world building continues throughout the series with the inclusion Raphael’s three brothers in arms (or a family of love) including Malachim, Gabriel and Chay. The four best friends are connected by a past mired in abuse and revenge but throughout their lives they have always had one another’s backs and hearts.
The relationship between Raphael and Greer is a not quite friends to lovers storyline that is overshadowed by numerous death threats and abduction attempts on both Raphael and Greer. Someone wants Greer dead and the list of possibilities continues to grow-from her ex fiancé’s family to someone close, Raphael can’t deny that someone Greer knows has targeted her for destruction. Greer comes from wealth but her dysfunctional family dynamics finds Greer alone and struggling without emotional or financial support.
SECRETS AND SINS: RAPHAEL is a fast paced, intriguing and compelling storyline. The intimacy between our leading couple is sexual, sensual and passionate. As Raphael works to uncover the who and why behind the threats against Greer, Greer will discover that the only people she can depend upon are those that have been there for her from the very start and the man with whom she has fallen in love.
Copy supplied by the publisher.
www.thereadingcafe.com
BLURB
When Greer Addison finds her future husband in bed with another woman, she runs…right into the arms of dark and dangerous Raphael Marcel. Angry and hurt, she throws caution to the wind and spends a hot night with the sexy security specialist. But when her fiancé is found dead, Greer becomes the main suspect of a crime she can’t remember.
Raphael is stunned and suspicious when Greer shows up on his doorstep claiming she’s carrying his baby. Worse, she’s the target of a stalker bent on making her pay for a murder she doesn’t recall. As Raphael begins to trust Greer, they must race against the clock to uncover a killer…..because Greer’s memory is returning.
~~~~~~~~~~
REVIEW: SECRETS AND SINS: RAPHAEL is the third instalment in Naima Simone’s contemporary, adult, erotic Secrets and Sins romance series but can be read as a stand alone. This is Raphael Marcel and Greer Addison’s story. Raphael is the tatted and pierced bad boy and co-owner of Liberty Security Services and Greer has been targeted by an unknown source.
The focus of the storyline is Greer’s protection and the building relationship between Greer and Raphael. Following a one night stand with the sexy Raphael, Greer walked into a gruesome murder scene-her ex fiancé was dead and she was the prime suspect. Four months later, Greer broke down and hired Raphael as her personal security guard but many things had changed for Greer in the ensuing months and Raphael soon learns that Greer is pregnant and he is the father.
Naima Simone pulls the reader into a storyline of murder, mystery, suspense and romance. The world building continues throughout the series with the inclusion Raphael’s three brothers in arms (or a family of love) including Malachim, Gabriel and Chay. The four best friends are connected by a past mired in abuse and revenge but throughout their lives they have always had one another’s backs and hearts.
The relationship between Raphael and Greer is a not quite friends to lovers storyline that is overshadowed by numerous death threats and abduction attempts on both Raphael and Greer. Someone wants Greer dead and the list of possibilities continues to grow-from her ex fiancé’s family to someone close, Raphael can’t deny that someone Greer knows has targeted her for destruction. Greer comes from wealth but her dysfunctional family dynamics finds Greer alone and struggling without emotional or financial support.
SECRETS AND SINS: RAPHAEL is a fast paced, intriguing and compelling storyline. The intimacy between our leading couple is sexual, sensual and passionate. As Raphael works to uncover the who and why behind the threats against Greer, Greer will discover that the only people she can depend upon are those that have been there for her from the very start and the man with whom she has fallen in love.
Copy supplied by the publisher.
www.thereadingcafe.com
July 23, 2016
When the past and the present collide, doubts and old insecurities surface; gear is a demon that feeds on such emotions. When Raphael and Greer are forced to face their separate pasts, will they find the strength to overcome, or will the danger that's looming drive them apart for good?
Raphael is an intense and irresistible mixture of power and sensuality. His long hair, piercings and intricate tattoos accentuate the lethal energy his toned body exudes. Raised by a single mom on the rough side of town, he built walls around his heart at an early age, designed to protect him from the pain of betrayal. He does not give his trust easily, but will defend those he considers family to the death.
Greer came from a wealthy background, nothing was more important than protecting her family's social status and perfect image. The vivacious beauty is determined always be honest with herself, and has no desire to lose her identity to the twisted example of love her parents set for her as a child.
When Raphael and Greer meet for the first time, the physical attraction each feels for the other ignites a sensual chemistry that neither has experienced before. It quickly becomes clear that one night isn't going to be enough to burn through their passion, but a series of devastating events keeps them apart.
When Greer turns to Raphael and his security firm for protection, they quickly realise that neither has forgotten their previous encounter. Even the most amazing sexual experiences don't always lead to balanced relationships, and the emotional cost of their previous experiences causes them to hesitate to reach for more. Greer feels cared for and protected by Rafael, and he admires her strength and determination. Will they be able to overcome the past and open their hearts to each other?
Secrets and Sins: Raphael, is a fast paced and well written romance that packs a punch. The complexity of the main story line was expertly developed. A host of supporting characters added additional layers of depth to an already memorable storyline. I was invested in this story from the very first sentence. Third in the series, it can be read as a stand alone story, but well loved characters from previous books do make brief appearances that fans will enjoy. A sensual and breathtaking adventure, this is an example of Naima Simone's story telling is at it's best!
A copy of Secrets and Sins: Raphael was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Raphael is an intense and irresistible mixture of power and sensuality. His long hair, piercings and intricate tattoos accentuate the lethal energy his toned body exudes. Raised by a single mom on the rough side of town, he built walls around his heart at an early age, designed to protect him from the pain of betrayal. He does not give his trust easily, but will defend those he considers family to the death.
Greer came from a wealthy background, nothing was more important than protecting her family's social status and perfect image. The vivacious beauty is determined always be honest with herself, and has no desire to lose her identity to the twisted example of love her parents set for her as a child.
When Raphael and Greer meet for the first time, the physical attraction each feels for the other ignites a sensual chemistry that neither has experienced before. It quickly becomes clear that one night isn't going to be enough to burn through their passion, but a series of devastating events keeps them apart.
When Greer turns to Raphael and his security firm for protection, they quickly realise that neither has forgotten their previous encounter. Even the most amazing sexual experiences don't always lead to balanced relationships, and the emotional cost of their previous experiences causes them to hesitate to reach for more. Greer feels cared for and protected by Rafael, and he admires her strength and determination. Will they be able to overcome the past and open their hearts to each other?
Secrets and Sins: Raphael, is a fast paced and well written romance that packs a punch. The complexity of the main story line was expertly developed. A host of supporting characters added additional layers of depth to an already memorable storyline. I was invested in this story from the very first sentence. Third in the series, it can be read as a stand alone story, but well loved characters from previous books do make brief appearances that fans will enjoy. A sensual and breathtaking adventure, this is an example of Naima Simone's story telling is at it's best!
A copy of Secrets and Sins: Raphael was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2014
For some reason I fully expected this to have paranormal aspects. Probably the who "sin" and "Raphael" thing, angels and all. Well, there's a tie-in to angels (he and his friends all have angelic names, though they're far from actually angels). However, there was no paranormal, just a lot of wondering "who did it".
Greer - can't say I blame her, running and looking for a hot one-night stand after she dumps her fiancé for sleeping with another woman. I loved the encounter between her and Raphael in the parking lot. I'm not an exhibitionist at all, nor do I like books where it takes place, but this just teases the possibility of getting caught, and that was great. Her parents are jerks, and I honestly don't understand why anyone would have children if they're not willing to accept them for who they are and what mistakes they might/might not make.
Raphael - He has good reason to distrust women who claim to be pregnant with his baby, and I thought this aspect was surprisingly well done, the way he gradually came to see Greer in a different light after he started helping her track down who was trying to torment her with the murder of her ex-fiancé.
The only reason I didn't fully love (in other words, give it five stars) was the predictability of who the real murderer was AND I was just speechless at how clueless Raphael was. I mean, once one little detail is revealed, how the HECK didn't they put two and two together? As soon as a name comes out in a background check, it became crystal clear, and neither Raphael (a security expert) nor Greer (who knew the individual) connected the dots. I was practically screaming at the book about this issue and in fact flipped back a couple pages to see if maybe the name hadn't been said out loud, so Greer wouldn't have heard it, but no...
ARGH.
Anyway, I liked this book a lot and recommend it for anyone who wants a great romance between two strong characters, and a nice secondary cast to round things out.
Four stars for this!
Book provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.`
Greer - can't say I blame her, running and looking for a hot one-night stand after she dumps her fiancé for sleeping with another woman. I loved the encounter between her and Raphael in the parking lot. I'm not an exhibitionist at all, nor do I like books where it takes place, but this just teases the possibility of getting caught, and that was great. Her parents are jerks, and I honestly don't understand why anyone would have children if they're not willing to accept them for who they are and what mistakes they might/might not make.
Raphael - He has good reason to distrust women who claim to be pregnant with his baby, and I thought this aspect was surprisingly well done, the way he gradually came to see Greer in a different light after he started helping her track down who was trying to torment her with the murder of her ex-fiancé.
The only reason I didn't fully love (in other words, give it five stars) was the predictability of who the real murderer was AND I was just speechless at how clueless Raphael was. I mean, once one little detail is revealed, how the HECK didn't they put two and two together? As soon as a name comes out in a background check, it became crystal clear, and neither Raphael (a security expert) nor Greer (who knew the individual) connected the dots. I was practically screaming at the book about this issue and in fact flipped back a couple pages to see if maybe the name hadn't been said out loud, so Greer wouldn't have heard it, but no...
ARGH.
Anyway, I liked this book a lot and recommend it for anyone who wants a great romance between two strong characters, and a nice secondary cast to round things out.
Four stars for this!
Book provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.`
May 5, 2014
***Received from Entangled Publishing for an honest review***
Greer just can’t catch a break. First, she discovers her fiancé cheating on her, literally. Second, her parents’ reaction to her breaking off their engagement was not what she was hoping for. Third, she discovers her ex-fiancé’s body in her apartment after having the best sex of her life with the hottest man she ever met. Fourth, she gets pinned with her ex-fiancé’s murder. Fifth, she receives creepy notes. Sixth, she finds out she pregnant with hot guy’s baby.
My heart ached for Greer, not because everything was going wrong but because of how she was treated by her parents. She was a socialite princess with the world at her feet and everything literally at her command. But the one thing she needed and could never have was her parents’ approval. Her father was a selfish, ruthless bastard without an ounce of compassion for his heartbroken daughter. His concern was image, not her. How pathetic. And her mother? She might as well be absent for all she was worth. She wasn’t strong enough to speak out against her husband, to stand up for her daughter. Silence in the face of cruelty is no better than inaction.
Raphael. He was Greer’s best sex partner, her baby’s daddy, and partner and half owner of a successful security firm. Oh, and he’s got that bad boy thing–tattoos, piercings, long hair–going on despite all the success and money he has. He’s the opposite of Greer’s ex-fiancé but he’s perfect for her. Too bad he’s got a hangup about being her baby’s daddy, thanks to a woman who played him wrong.
I loved the fast-pace of this story, love that I wasn’t given the chance to become bored with any part of this story at all. The highs and lows of their relationship, of the investigation, of who each character is and their respective pasts, were fascinating to read about. There was a terrific blend of suspense, attraction, romance, disappointment, hope, revelation, and love that just…really spoke to me and had me really, really wanting them to have the HEA they both deserved.
Greer just can’t catch a break. First, she discovers her fiancé cheating on her, literally. Second, her parents’ reaction to her breaking off their engagement was not what she was hoping for. Third, she discovers her ex-fiancé’s body in her apartment after having the best sex of her life with the hottest man she ever met. Fourth, she gets pinned with her ex-fiancé’s murder. Fifth, she receives creepy notes. Sixth, she finds out she pregnant with hot guy’s baby.
My heart ached for Greer, not because everything was going wrong but because of how she was treated by her parents. She was a socialite princess with the world at her feet and everything literally at her command. But the one thing she needed and could never have was her parents’ approval. Her father was a selfish, ruthless bastard without an ounce of compassion for his heartbroken daughter. His concern was image, not her. How pathetic. And her mother? She might as well be absent for all she was worth. She wasn’t strong enough to speak out against her husband, to stand up for her daughter. Silence in the face of cruelty is no better than inaction.
Raphael. He was Greer’s best sex partner, her baby’s daddy, and partner and half owner of a successful security firm. Oh, and he’s got that bad boy thing–tattoos, piercings, long hair–going on despite all the success and money he has. He’s the opposite of Greer’s ex-fiancé but he’s perfect for her. Too bad he’s got a hangup about being her baby’s daddy, thanks to a woman who played him wrong.
I loved the fast-pace of this story, love that I wasn’t given the chance to become bored with any part of this story at all. The highs and lows of their relationship, of the investigation, of who each character is and their respective pasts, were fascinating to read about. There was a terrific blend of suspense, attraction, romance, disappointment, hope, revelation, and love that just…really spoke to me and had me really, really wanting them to have the HEA they both deserved.
April 28, 2014
The third Secrets and Sins book is a riveting romantic suspense that captures the heart. After spending a hot night with a security specialist, Greer finds her fiancé dead and she becomes the main suspect in his murder, but she has no memory of what happened. When Greer shows up on his doorstep pregnant, Raphael is stunned and suspicious, worse she’s the target of a stalker bent on making her pay for a murder she doesn’t recall.
The fast paced and smooth flowing plot keeps readers on their toes and the adrenaline pumping with lots of suspense, action, drama and romance. The author paints vivid images of the events and scenes with well written words and details that capture the imagination and makes the reader feel as if they are right in the middle of the action. The strong compelling characters are easily related to and draw the reader deeper into the story. Spine tingling tension builds throughout the story keeping the reader on the edge of their seat as the danger escalates especially when Greer starts to remember.
The attraction and chemistry between burns hot enough to singe the reader and the sex scenes are scorching hot, but the relationship is a little slow to catch up to the passion because of their emotional issues. The reader can’t help but get emotionally caught up in both characters stories as they have both been emotionally betrayed by loved ones and the author brought tears to my eyes in a couple of places, and Greer courage and strength captures the heart and had me wanting to beat her parents upside the head with a baseball bat (she’s better off without them).
I was totally engrossed in the story from beginning to end and I found it enjoyable and entertaining with some twists that I sure didn’t see coming and captivating characters that have me wanting to know more. I haven’t read the first two books in this series but I am definitely curious about Gabe and Mal stories now and of course I can’t wait for Chay’s.
The fast paced and smooth flowing plot keeps readers on their toes and the adrenaline pumping with lots of suspense, action, drama and romance. The author paints vivid images of the events and scenes with well written words and details that capture the imagination and makes the reader feel as if they are right in the middle of the action. The strong compelling characters are easily related to and draw the reader deeper into the story. Spine tingling tension builds throughout the story keeping the reader on the edge of their seat as the danger escalates especially when Greer starts to remember.
The attraction and chemistry between burns hot enough to singe the reader and the sex scenes are scorching hot, but the relationship is a little slow to catch up to the passion because of their emotional issues. The reader can’t help but get emotionally caught up in both characters stories as they have both been emotionally betrayed by loved ones and the author brought tears to my eyes in a couple of places, and Greer courage and strength captures the heart and had me wanting to beat her parents upside the head with a baseball bat (she’s better off without them).
I was totally engrossed in the story from beginning to end and I found it enjoyable and entertaining with some twists that I sure didn’t see coming and captivating characters that have me wanting to know more. I haven’t read the first two books in this series but I am definitely curious about Gabe and Mal stories now and of course I can’t wait for Chay’s.
April 28, 2014
When Greer Addison finds her future husband in bed with another woman, she runs…right into the arms of dark and dangerous Raphael Marcel. Angry and hurt, she throws caution to the wind
and spends a hot night with the sexy security specialist. But when her fiancé is found dead, Greer becomes the main suspect of a crime she can’t remember.
Raphael is stunned and suspicious when Greer shows up on his doorstep claiming she’s carrying his baby. Worse, she’s the target of a stalker bent on making her pay for a murder she doesn’t recall. As Raphael begins to trust Greer, they must race against the clock to uncover a killer.
Because Greer’s memory is returning...
Review:
Always a sucker for unexpected pregnancy story, I was very happy to read this book and really liked it.
I found out this is the third book in the series, but I was totally not lost. I think the Author did a great job building the story so we understood Raphael's friends and his past.
I really liked the mystery surrounding Greer and her dead ex-fiance. The Author did a great job of keeping the mystery going/keep me guessing until the very end. But I felt so sorry for one of the supporting characters who got caught in the the crossfire (not telling who to keep the mystery going for those who have not read the story yet).
Rafe and Greer have great chemistry, but they both have pasts that get in their way of trusting and loving each other. The Author makes the story more believable in that Rafe does not immediately go all instant family when he finds out the news. I also liked the whole from the opposite side of the tracks love aspect to the story too.
Great Book! will definitely pick up more of Ms. Simone's work
4.5Stars
and spends a hot night with the sexy security specialist. But when her fiancé is found dead, Greer becomes the main suspect of a crime she can’t remember.
Raphael is stunned and suspicious when Greer shows up on his doorstep claiming she’s carrying his baby. Worse, she’s the target of a stalker bent on making her pay for a murder she doesn’t recall. As Raphael begins to trust Greer, they must race against the clock to uncover a killer.
Because Greer’s memory is returning...
Review:
Always a sucker for unexpected pregnancy story, I was very happy to read this book and really liked it.
I found out this is the third book in the series, but I was totally not lost. I think the Author did a great job building the story so we understood Raphael's friends and his past.
I really liked the mystery surrounding Greer and her dead ex-fiance. The Author did a great job of keeping the mystery going/keep me guessing until the very end. But I felt so sorry for one of the supporting characters who got caught in the the crossfire (not telling who to keep the mystery going for those who have not read the story yet).
Rafe and Greer have great chemistry, but they both have pasts that get in their way of trusting and loving each other. The Author makes the story more believable in that Rafe does not immediately go all instant family when he finds out the news. I also liked the whole from the opposite side of the tracks love aspect to the story too.
Great Book! will definitely pick up more of Ms. Simone's work
4.5Stars
May 9, 2014
I really enjoyed this romantic suspense story! Greer is a woman who has spent her whole life trying to please her very unhappy but rich parents. She agreed to an engagement with a friend thinking she would at least "like" her future husband and please her parents at the same time. She is shocked to find him cheating on her and decides to drown her sorrows but finds herself drowning in the arms of sexy Raphael instead. After a sizzling hot encounter in the back of his truck, she returns home to find her dead ex-fiancé in her apartment. With an alibi she is no longer a suspect in his murder but she is being stalked by a person intent on making her pay for this crime. She also finds out that she is pregnant with Raphael's child and decides that she must contact him to ask for his help in protecting both her and their baby.
I really enjoyed the suspense and emotional quality of this book as well as the building of a relationship between Greer and Raphael. Greer is a very sweet and strong woman who has had a difficult life being raised by parents who had no time for her or her brother. Raphael was raised by his mother, as his father was in and out of prison most of his life. I felt for Raphael. He is a very strong and caring man who is afraid of being hurt, emotionally. He has a hard time believing that Greer would want anything to do with him, as she is a pampered princess and him a child of a criminal. The story flows beautifully and kept me on the edge of my seat as I tried to figure out who the killer was as well as awaiting the outcome of Greer and Raphael's romance.
I highly recommend this story and am eagerly awaiting more great stories from Naima Simone!~Booklover Sue
I really enjoyed the suspense and emotional quality of this book as well as the building of a relationship between Greer and Raphael. Greer is a very sweet and strong woman who has had a difficult life being raised by parents who had no time for her or her brother. Raphael was raised by his mother, as his father was in and out of prison most of his life. I felt for Raphael. He is a very strong and caring man who is afraid of being hurt, emotionally. He has a hard time believing that Greer would want anything to do with him, as she is a pampered princess and him a child of a criminal. The story flows beautifully and kept me on the edge of my seat as I tried to figure out who the killer was as well as awaiting the outcome of Greer and Raphael's romance.
I highly recommend this story and am eagerly awaiting more great stories from Naima Simone!~Booklover Sue
January 5, 2016
Greer Addison could not get the image of her fiancé having sex with her supposedly best friend, out of her head. Distraught, a heartbroken Greer finds comfort in the arms of bad boy, Raphael Marcel. Things then go from bad to worse when Greer arrives home from her passion-filled night with Raphael, only to discover her fiancé, dead and her unconscious with no memory of what happened.
Raphael “Rafe” Marcel could not believe it when Greer showed up on his doorstep claiming she’s pregnant with his child and asking for his protection against an unknown stalker, one who’s determined to keep her in the headlines regarding her ex-fiancé’s murder, until her memory returns.
Phew! Readers, hold on to your horses because Raphael will blow your mind. The suspense is electrifying, the sex is wickedly naughty, the plot perfectly paced, and the characters, whether main or secondary, are impressive and captivating. When the identity of the stalker is revealed, my jaw, literally, dropped open. I admit that I did not see that coming. I was totally shocked and found myself screaming with excitement! Naima Simone paints her scenes so well-defined and vivid to the point where I felt that I was right there in the middle of all the action. My emotions were all over the place, I giggled and even shed a few tears. I yearn to experience the unconditional loving that Rafe and Greer shared. I was completely engrossed in the storyline from the beginning until the very last word. Raphael is one novel not to be missed. I promise that you will not be disappointed.
I Joyfully Recommended Raphael!
Reviewed by Nikita for Joyfully Reviewed
Link: http://bit.ly/1S1gkwZ
Raphael “Rafe” Marcel could not believe it when Greer showed up on his doorstep claiming she’s pregnant with his child and asking for his protection against an unknown stalker, one who’s determined to keep her in the headlines regarding her ex-fiancé’s murder, until her memory returns.
Phew! Readers, hold on to your horses because Raphael will blow your mind. The suspense is electrifying, the sex is wickedly naughty, the plot perfectly paced, and the characters, whether main or secondary, are impressive and captivating. When the identity of the stalker is revealed, my jaw, literally, dropped open. I admit that I did not see that coming. I was totally shocked and found myself screaming with excitement! Naima Simone paints her scenes so well-defined and vivid to the point where I felt that I was right there in the middle of all the action. My emotions were all over the place, I giggled and even shed a few tears. I yearn to experience the unconditional loving that Rafe and Greer shared. I was completely engrossed in the storyline from the beginning until the very last word. Raphael is one novel not to be missed. I promise that you will not be disappointed.
I Joyfully Recommended Raphael!
Reviewed by Nikita for Joyfully Reviewed
Link: http://bit.ly/1S1gkwZ
December 5, 2015
Secrets and Sins: Raphael follows the story of Greer. She's trying to get her life together after finding her fiance in bed with someone else.....While out at a bar with her brother, Addison runs into Raphael and decides to do something totally out of character. She decides to spend the night with him. If only she knew that that one night would completely change her life.....Her ex-fiance ends up dead, she wakes up in the hospital with no memory and finds herself the main suspect in her ex-fiance's murder........
Raphael is taken by surprise when Greer re-enters his life, claiming to pregnant with his child. Throw in the fact that she tells him someone is after her, and now he finds himself in an interesting situation. Unfortunately, events from Raphael's past, make it hard for him to trust and believe that Greer is really pregnant with his child. As time goes on, Raphael begins to trust Greer and they become closer.....Unfortunately, time is running out.....Will they catch the killer before it's too late???
I enjoyed the fast pace and flow of the story. The suspense, drama and mystery was great. I loved the unexpected twists. The relationship between Raphael and Greer was great. The chemistry between the two of them was hot and it was fun seeing them go from a one night stand to the possibility of more :)
I found this book to be very enjoyable. Even though this was the third book in this series, it can be read as a stand alone.
*****I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review*****
Raphael is taken by surprise when Greer re-enters his life, claiming to pregnant with his child. Throw in the fact that she tells him someone is after her, and now he finds himself in an interesting situation. Unfortunately, events from Raphael's past, make it hard for him to trust and believe that Greer is really pregnant with his child. As time goes on, Raphael begins to trust Greer and they become closer.....Unfortunately, time is running out.....Will they catch the killer before it's too late???
I enjoyed the fast pace and flow of the story. The suspense, drama and mystery was great. I loved the unexpected twists. The relationship between Raphael and Greer was great. The chemistry between the two of them was hot and it was fun seeing them go from a one night stand to the possibility of more :)
I found this book to be very enjoyable. Even though this was the third book in this series, it can be read as a stand alone.
*****I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review*****
April 25, 2014
Actually, this is very similar to a Linda Howard story which is maybe why I loved it so much. We have Greer, our really upset over her fiance cheating on her with her friend, also has a terrible family who basically are the worst assholes ever. Then we have Raphael (Rafe) who runs a security firm, is sexy as hell, but also has childhood demands and issues from his past that prevent him going after Greer the way he wants to.
THEN!
Greer finds ex-fiance dead, she has amnesia from being knocked out cold after she finds him, someone is clearly after her, and Rafe is the person she runs to. Which (dun, dun, dun) he is stunned to learn she is pregnant with his baby after a really hot one night stand in the back of the car but that drums up old hurt from a previous relationship so he starts being a douchebag to her and she just takes it.
*sigh*
Don't fret pets, Rafe does come around and things end well, but not before we find out who the killer is and why. I will tell you I figured out who it was almost immediately and maybe that's because I have read so many romance novels that center around the same plot. It doesn't even matter though, because this book keeps you engaged the entire time. Rafe is amazingly sexy, Greer isn't a baby that is all, "my life suck so bad, everyone feel sorry for me", and then you have murder happening. Overall? Pretty solid romance novel. It's everything we expect in a romance and more. I loved it.
THEN!
Greer finds ex-fiance dead, she has amnesia from being knocked out cold after she finds him, someone is clearly after her, and Rafe is the person she runs to. Which (dun, dun, dun) he is stunned to learn she is pregnant with his baby after a really hot one night stand in the back of the car but that drums up old hurt from a previous relationship so he starts being a douchebag to her and she just takes it.
*sigh*
Don't fret pets, Rafe does come around and things end well, but not before we find out who the killer is and why. I will tell you I figured out who it was almost immediately and maybe that's because I have read so many romance novels that center around the same plot. It doesn't even matter though, because this book keeps you engaged the entire time. Rafe is amazingly sexy, Greer isn't a baby that is all, "my life suck so bad, everyone feel sorry for me", and then you have murder happening. Overall? Pretty solid romance novel. It's everything we expect in a romance and more. I loved it.
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