Where Secrets Find Solace

by Kimberly Brown

After ten years behind bars, a woman walks free—but freedom comes with its own sentence in this bold and unsparing novel by national bestselling author Kimberly Brown.

After serving a ten-year sentence for killing her mother’s boyfriend, Alayah Chambers is finally free—but freedom comes at a cost. Haunted by the abuse that landed her in prison and judged by a society that still sees her as a criminal, Alayah must piece together a new life in a world that isn’t quick to forgive. Determined to reclaim her future, she sets out to confront the ghosts of her past—including the woman who failed her the her own mother.

Killian Lake, a successful attorney and Alayah’s childhood friend, never forgot her—or the signs he missed back then. When a colleague offers him the chance to help overturn her conviction, he doesn’t hesitate. Reunited after years apart, the chemistry between them simmers beneath the surface. And while Alayah keeps her heart guarded, Killian’s steady support begins to chip away at her defenses.

As buried secrets emerge and old wounds resurface, Alayah must will she let her past define her future, or embrace the love and justice she’s always deserved? With Killian by her side, healing is within reach—but only if she’s willing to claim it.

Genres: Audiobook, Abuse, African American Romance

289 pages, Paperback

Published December 16, 2025

About the author

Various authors.

Reviews

[Symone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whew, this one took me through it! 🥹 This book turned a devastating, traumatic experience into a beautiful love story. Alayah's story is raw and emotional, and Kimberly Brown doesn't shy away from the reality of her struggles. Each step forward feels earned, and setbacks are real. I connected deeply with her emotions.
What struck me was the subtlety of the love story. Killian isn’t a savior; he’s steady, patient, and present, making him even more captivating. Their bond is rooted in shared history, slowly rebuilt trust, and the understanding that love often means waiting and listening. I also loved the rekindling of sisterhood between Alayah and her younger sisters, along with the support and grace from family and friends during her healing.
This isn’t an easy read, but it is a meaningful one.Please protect your peace and read the triggers in the author’s note.

[BookmarkedByAlia · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25⭐️
Wow! I knew this was going to be a tough read when I picked it up but geez!!
Alayah dealt with so much at such an early age and kept dealing with that hurt even after being released from prison after doing 10 years.
I’m not going to say too much about this one because I want you to go in to this not knowing too much just as I did. This was a sad, yet heartwarming read. One that makes your heart hurt knowing that this is fiction for some but also a reality for others.😢

[Annette Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Imagine being violated by your mama’s boyfriend and she refuses to believe you. Imagine being fed up and, after years of abuse, taking matters into your own hands to stop the abuse just for your mama to side with your abuser’s family and help the DAs office convict you. My heart just broke for Alayah. She was betrayed by her trash azz mama then, the system stuck another knife in her back. After serving 10 years, Alayah is paroled and she begins her redemption journey. This book was hard to read and it tugged at every single one of my heartstrings. It was raw, emotional, gut wrenching, and real. But, Alayah was able to turn her trauma into a beautiful love story she thought she’d never experience. Killian was just……..I don’t know that I can express how magnificent this man was. He was patient, he was kind, he was nurturing, and he was loving. He was everything Alayah needed when she needed it. I loved the slow burn of their relationship. Given the subject matter, KB paced it perfectly. “I want you—all of you—whenever you are ready for me. When you feel like you can’t love yourself, I’ll love you enough for the both of us. I’ll remind you of your worth when that little voice in your head is being cruel. I choose you. I choose you through your laughter and your tears, through your triumphs and struggles.” Come on Killian! Where Secrets Find Solace was a struggle to get through but, it’s a story that needed to be told. Unfortunately, Alayah’s story may be someone else’s reality so be very mindful of the triggers.

[Sheronda H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Despite this book being heavy read it turned out to be a beautiful story. Alayah was not genuinely a good person. Her mother was trash. Alayah fought for herself, she also fought to protect her little sisters. I loved how she had so many people that fought for her. Her Aunt and Uncle were the best. Killian was such a great guy and loved Alayah. I really loved this book, definitely will be a favorite for the year.

[Crystal (Melanatedreader) Forte' · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kimberly Brown does it again! She shows us that her pen game is versatile through her latest by giving us a women’s fiction piece. This was not an easy read to say the least the themes are heavy so go into this with caution. Kimberly Brown follows through with redemption at the end for our main FMC which I can only think was it truly redemption. This book gave you some insight in how screwed the criminal justice system can be and what it looks like on the other side and fighting for a sense of normalcy when society is fighting against you.

[Jahda · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️ I enjoyed how unique the plot was. I kind of feel like something was missing but I this was a good read.

[melanatedbookjunkie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such powerful story of redemption ❤️

Where Secrets Find Solace was everything I didn’t know my heart needed. Emotional, layered, healing, and written with so much tenderness. The kind of story that sits with you, cracks you open a little, then gently puts you back together. Highly recommend this story 👏🏾

[KarynReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very emotionally charged read/listen. My mind was not truly prepared. 🥺 This is why having an opinion on someone else’s body makes zero sense to me. A choice is solely HER CHOICE. Kennedy should have been given the right to choose. And that should have been to ABORT! How can you hate your own babies! So shameful!! As a result a precious life suffered acts no child should and an unfortunate incarceration, an animal lost his life (rightly so) all because Kennedy did not ABORT! Even Alayah asked her why didnt she. Smh.

I loved Alayah and Killian as soon as they made their entrances. The grace and patience Killian gave her was impeccable. This story truly gave the definition to love is patient and love is kind. I enjoyed the audio I think the narrators did a good job.
Bravo Kimberly Brown!

[lexx t · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where Secrets Find Solace by Kimberly Brown is my third read from her and honestly, she did that. This story is heavy, emotional, and deeply layered, but it’s also beautiful in the way it handles survival and healing. Alayah’s past is heartbreaking, especially knowing she was punished by a system that failed her when she was only defending herself. Watching her try to rebuild her life after everything she endured had me fully invested and rooting for her every step of the way.

I loved how the story moves between timelines because it lets you really understand who Alayah was before prison and who she is after. Seeing those two versions of her side by side made everything hit harder. Killian was such a bright spot in this story. He was sweet, patient, and protective in a way that felt genuine, not forced. Their connection felt like reclaiming something they were both denied as kids. Kennedy was the true villain of this book, and her misplaced anger toward Alayah was devastating to witness, especially since Alayah had no control over what happened to her.

What made this story even stronger was the support Alayah did have. Her aunt and uncle never stopped fighting for her, and Killian staying by her side meant everything. I also loved seeing justice finally be served and Alayah getting the chance at a fresh start, reconnecting with her sisters, building new friendships, and finding her way through life. Rodney’s family was absolute trash, but it only highlighted who really showed up for her. This book is emotional and powerful, so please make sure to check the trigger warnings before reading.

[Fadeless Pages · Rating 5 out of 5]

Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Narration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you NetGalley, Kimberly Brown, and RBmedia for the ALC!

Kimberly Brown's Where Secrets Find Solace took me on an unforgettable roller coaster ride of emotions that absolutely gripped me. This book had me in my feelings—I was genuinely so hurt for Alayah as she went through those unfortunate events.

The characters evoked powerful responses in me. I have to say, Alayah's mom had me so angry! This woman is truly the lowest of the low. Her actions had me stressed out!

But then there's Killian...... Just Wow! He is a man's man! I loved how he stepped up and supported the woman he always loved. He was the hero Alayah, and the reader, needed.

The story doesn't just focus on the personal drama; it exposes a dark side of the world. The levels of corruption throughout this story are diabolical! It added a frustrating but compelling layer of conflict to the narrative.

Despite the intensity and the low points, I really loved the support from the families and how they came together as a strong unit. That sense of protection and unity was a beautiful contrast to the darkness.

Where Secrets Find Solace is a powerful read that completely trapped me in its drama.

🎧 Audiobook Experience

The narrators, Morris Kellswater and Charlie L. Wood, do an incredible job bringing the intensity of the characters to life. Their voices truly capture the anger I felt toward Alayah's mother and the depth of feeling I had for Alayah. Listening to Killian's steady, strong voice, likely performed by one of the narrators, made his supportive actions even more impactful. The narration adds another level of emotional connection to this already gripping story.

[Brisace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia for the audio advance copy of Where Secrets Find Solace by Kimberly Brown. This story is heavy, emotional, and quietly powerful in a way that sits with you long after it ends. The audio format elevated the experience. Hearing Alayah’s pain, strength, and resolve made her story hit deeper, especially during moments where silence said more than words. This is a story about survival, justice, and choosing yourself even when forgiveness feels out of reach. Emotional, reflective, and honest, it’s the kind of book that asks you to sit with discomfort and really listen.

[SheKea Lindsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ALC from NetGalley of Where Secrets Find Solace and I’m so glad I did. This book opens with us learning that our FMC is 10 years into serving a 30 year sentence for killing her mother’s boyfriend for SAing from age 13-17. Soon after she is made aware that she has a parole hearing, this is where we meet the MMC. He’s a lawyer who is asked by a colleague to look into her case and he finds out that it’s his old study partner/childhood crush. They work to get Alayah free and now she has to adapt to her newfound freedom. All the old feelings hit Killian is trying to get close to her again. We then follow both as they navigate their budding friendship that Killian wants to more from. As the old saying goes what’s done in the dark will come to light many things come to fruition about the case and a lot of family secrets come to light. This is actually more of a suspense romance more than anything and I’m here for it! Kimberly does so well with this genre that she should definitely lean more into it. A five star read for me for sure!

[Mya · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️
Kimberly Brown remains one of my favorite authors. She truly never disappoints. This story was heartbreaking, yet incredibly beautiful and healing. It reminded me of Fast by Millie Belizaire, one of my top reads of 2025. If you’ve read Fast and enjoyed it, this is definitely one to pick up.

[Diana]

Story 4.5 stars
Audiobook 4 stars

This is one of those stories that will stay with me for a long time. It’s a heartbreaking, yet powerful story about a woman overcoming childhood trauma and prison and trying to start to live her life. But it’s not that easy, especially when secrets won’t stay buried.

Please read the trigger warnings!!!

[adoseof.adri · Rating 4 out of 5]

All the feels 🥹. KB will forever be one of my favorite authors. The content in this one is HEAVY and if you’re a fan of Fast by Millie Belizaire, you’ll love this one too. This is a story that’s going to stick with me.

[Bookaholic__Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was heartbreaking but also beautiful. I believe it's marketed as being contemporary romance but some of the topics may be triggering to some readers so I recommend reading with caution.

Alayah Chambers has spent 10 years behind bars for murder. A murder that in my opinion, while not moral was definitely justifiable. As a young child she had been abused by her mother's boyfriend. Her mother didn't believe her, he had no intention of stopping and worse off she had younger siblings she feared he may eventually turn his attention to.

She went to prison, she served her time and yet even after release she doesn't feel free. She doesn't have to be alone though, someone from her past is there and he wants to help her heal if she will only allow him.

I think this story has a lot of different elements that come together cohesively and beautifully. I enjoyed the romance but my favorite parts are actually just watching Alayah heal and being able to reunite with her siblings.

I received a copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Laken Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let me just say this was a 5 star for me other than the dark romance parts. I am not a fan of listening to it...I feel like I am listening to porn and just cringe kjhdfkjsdhfkjs. That being said, there weren't too many parts like that and it's more of an undertone than an aspect of the story...and we do know that the narrators are more known for a spicy genre. Either way, they still did a phenomenal performance.
This book had all the feels. There are details that are hard to hear but necessary, which we can already be concluded prior to going into it based off of the description.
Thank you to NetGalley and publishers for my free copy.

[She Reads What She Wants · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me start by saying this right now: be mindful of your triggers going into this book, because Kimberly Brown does not sugarcoat trauma. She gives you the real, and sometimes the real is hard to sit with. When the people who are supposed to protect you fail you over and over again, you start doing whatever you have to do just to survive… and that desperation can change the entire course of your life.

Alayah honestly never caught a break. From her teenage years straight into adulthood, she was dealt the worst hand and forced into situations she never asked for....while everyone around her somehow missed the pain she was living with every single day. After spending ten years behind bars, all she wants now is a quiet life, to find her sisters, and to finally build the family she never had the chance to have.

Her aunt and uncle were the only steady support she had, and the way they showed up for her? That part really touched me. They were determined to make sure she knew she wasn’t alone anymore that she mattered and that she deserved peace.

And then there’s Killian. He knew Alayah back when they were teenagers and had always cared for her, even if he didn’t fully understand what she was going through at the time. He carried guilt for not seeing the signs back then, and when he’s asked to help with her case years later? He sees it as a second chance, not just to help her legally, but to finally be there for her in the way he couldn’t before.

This story was packed with pain, healing, love, friendship, struggle, and some hard truths. Alayah had been fighting for so long that even she wasn’t sure if she’d ever really escape the darkness that followed her. Watching her slowly find light again was emotional, exhausting, and beautiful all at once.

It wasn’t an easy read… but it was absolutely worth it.

[Erin Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐️ I enjoyed listening to the 🎧audiobook of "Where Secrets Find Solace". It went from an emotional, traumatic read to being a beautiful story of healing and finding love through reconnection. I did think something was missing from the story that could've pushed it a little more emotional FOR ME.

Alayah and Killian 🌻🧡

Alayah's traumatic past so heartbreaking and her momma got what she deserved! Kennedy is going on my aint shit momma list! Loved when Killian and Alayah reconnected. That was a patient man. So supportive and cared for Alayah. As their friendship grew to did the love between them and Alayah began to trust and heal.

Also, shoutout to Alayah's uncle and aunt as well as London❤️

Favorite quotes:

"I want you all of you whenever you are ready for me. When you feel like you can't love yourself, I'll love you enough for the both of us. I'll remind you of your worth when that little voice in your head is being cruel. I choose you. I choose you through your laughter and your tears, through your triumphs and struggles."

[Monique · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a beautifully written story of redemption that at times took my breath away because of the depth of emotion you could feel on these pages. Alayah was dealt a very crappy hand in life and it cost her innocence & 10yrs of freedom. I loved watching her journey as she navigated her new life on the outside & learning to trust others and build/heal relationships. Killian. Killian. Killian. The boy who had a soft spot for her as a child grew to be the steadfast love that she needed as a woman. He was consistent, gentle, patient, kind, and understanding. Their love just felt healing, and the way he handled her…it was everything. I also deeply enjoyed the other relationships in the book. Londyn. Her sisters. Her aunt & uncle. Killian’s family. Even her attorney and her friend from jail. Each played a major part in Alayah’s healing & her journey to womanhood.

Also there isn’t a hell hot enough for Rodney or Kennedy. Both only got a PORTION of what they deserved😤

[CT · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where Secrets Find Solace is a deeply emotional story about trauma, healing, and the power of family support. This book doesn’t shy away from hard topics—it really shows what it’s like to survive painful experiences and still try to build a life afterward.

What stood out to me most was how much this story focuses on healing. It isn’t just about what happened in the past, but about learning how to live with it, how to grow, and how to accept love and support. The way family plays a role in that healing made the story feel even more real and touching.

This was honestly a really good book. It was heavy, but meaningful, and it stayed with me after I finished. That said, I definitely recommend checking the trigger warnings before reading, because it covers some very intense and sensitive topics.

Overall, this is a powerful and emotional read that I’m glad I picked up.

[Jerrica (Mrsmar10Reads) Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whew the secrets...

First full read of the year and it was heavy, but it was sooo good. Please, please, please read the cw before reading because what's happening here is unthinkable, but the care I believe Ms. Brown took in writing some very sensitive and triggering topics did not go unnoticed. Layah suffered through so much, but watching her overcome and get REAL justice was the goodness. Killian, now that's a man! That man loved that girl before she could comprehend what love really was. He went to the highest heights for her and her family. I told my daughter, for such a heavy book, I couldn't stop reading! Happy Reading Y’all!💋

[Pinks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Solace In Deed !

Kimberly came back guys with this heart warming but sad and inspiring romance book. Overcoming the wrongs of what others have done to you and injustice. My heart aches for sweet Alayah on her journey to freedom and happiness. This book will have you in your feelings for sure but it’s worth it. Killian was her match a praying man of goodness. Their love so pure and cute. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and outcome of prevailing. Thank you Kimberly for sharing your craft !

[Dannie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book right here is a 10/10! This book has you hook from the beginning to the end. Any and every emotion was felt when reading this book. All Alayah wanted to feel was love and protection and her mother failed her. From angry, to hurt, to happiness and peace this book had you feeling them all. Alayah got the redemption she deserves while being surrounded by people who truly love her. Between, her aunt and uncle, Erica, London and Killian and her sisters all showed up for her and showed out! S/O to Carissa for being the mom she needed! One thing about them tables baby ... oh they gon TURN! Kimberly Brown you really did your big one once AGAIN!

[Morgan Frances · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

Where Secrets Find Solace is an emotional, character-driven story about survival, healing, and second chances. Alayah’s journey from trauma to reclaiming her life is raw, heartbreaking, and ultimately hopeful. The romance is tender and slow-burning, adding warmth without overshadowing her growth.

This one will sit with you long after the last page. Heavy subject matter, but beautifully handled.

[Jessturnpages · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book shattered me in the best way. Every chapter carried weight, every emotion hit deeply, and the pacing gave the story room to breathe while still pulling me forward. I felt everything while reading this — joy, heartbreak, hope, and loss. These characters and their story will stay with me for a long time. Without question, this is one of my top reads of the year.

[Reading_Utopia! · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25⭐️

This book captivated my heart, tore it apart, and beautifully pieced it back together! Alayah and Killian are seriously unforgettable and will always hold a special place in my heart. My love for most of the characters is so intense that it completely overshadows any animosity I felt for the others. Where Secrets Find Solace is absolutely stunning, offering a brilliant combination of heartache and healing that captivates from start to finish!

[Mikaela · Rating 4 out of 5]

An emotionally charged & triggering read. After being dealt such a bad hand, seeing Alayah finally get the happy ending & justice she deserved made the journey worth it. Killian was God sent. I enjoyed the story, however some of the irony felt a bit unrealistic at times.

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

My God this story is so heartbreakingly beautiful. It’s first and foremost a story of healing and overcoming and a love story underneath all that.

I couldn’t put it down because I needed to know what was next. So many failures, so much realism.

[h'Elena Pleasant · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 rounded up