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Secrets protect…but they also destroy.

Allie Swift has a secret—one that has kept her from finding a Dom willing to take her where she longs to go, far beyond the slap-and-tickle approach of BDSM-lite, into the deep reaches of true sadomasochism.

When she meets Liam on a BDSM personals site, she senses he’s different from the Doms she has been with before. His darkly compelling nature speaks directly to her submissive heart.

Liam Byrne had it all—a great career, a hot body, and a submissive fiancée. That is, until a year ago when a head-on collision with a drunk driver shattered not only his leg, but also his life. Now Liam harbors an ominous secret, one that’s tearing him apart and causing him to hold the world, including Allie Swift, at arm’s length.

As the intensity of their D/s exploration increases, Liam and Allie must confront their fears. Together they must decide if the bond they share is strong enough to survive bringing their secrets to light.

Secrets is the first novel in Claire Thompson’s new edgy BDSM romance series: BDSM Connections. Prepare for a powerful, emotional experience.

166 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 4, 2016

170 people are currently reading
665 people want to read

About the author

Claire Thompson

203 books1,162 followers
Claire has been writing for nearly two decades, and has published over 85 novels. She writes BDSM romance and abduction tales, spanning both m/f and m/m genres. She has received numerous awards for her bestselling work, including the NLA-Int’l Pauline Réage Award and the Golden Flogger Award for best BDSM fiction.. Her darker works press the envelope of what is erotic and what can be a sometimes dangerous slide into the world of sadomasochism. Ultimately her work deals with the human condition, and our constant search for love and intensity of experience.
Connect with Claire and get a FREE starter library!
https://clairethompson.net

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
Profile Image for Kit.
348 reviews251 followers
September 15, 2016
More reviews at Li'l Kit’s Reviews.

Writing: ★★★★★
Story: ★★★
Characters: ★★★★

Overall rating: 4.0

Claire Thompson is a favorite author of mine, I've read several of her books, so I was excited to see a new book by her.

This was a sweet, fast paced read. At times almost a little *too* sweet, and a little *too* convinent. But, for the most part, I did enjoy the love story of Dominant Liam and submissive Allie. I enjoyed the fact that their meeting seemed real, that their connection grew until they finally met. They were well suited characters for each other.

The sex scenes in this book were pretty well played out, including the *GASP* water torture scene. Had me feeling panicky just reading about it.

I feel "most" of the scenes were realistic, and sexy hot! There were times that I felt the author tried to put as many BDSM scene plays into the book as she could think of. After a while, it started to become predictable. Not every touch, or every kiss, needs to turn into "up against the wall. And fuck in 3, 2, 1."

I have to admit, there were times when I thought Liam was a jerk. I understand the pushing of limits, and I understand why he did so at times... but to me, he just sounded... "jerkish".

So overall, yes, I liked the book. And I really enjoyed meeting so many of the other characters. The all had a place in the story, they made sense, and even though there were quite a few of them, I felt like I knew them all by the time I finished the book. I'm hoping to see more of them if there are going to be other books in this series.
Profile Image for Am4u ❀ ~ AprilMarie4u ~ ❀ .
89 reviews249 followers
August 19, 2016
Genres

Contemporary BDSM Romance

General Thoughts

The first portion of the book, I felt like I was getting to know Allie & Liam (the main characters). They felt real with not only flaws, but good qualities as well. I got a very down to earth type of vibe from them. They seem like people I'd be friends with.

The book then transitions to a more heavy focus on the BDSM scenes. The characters (of course) still played a part of the story, but those scenes (and oh boy were they sexy) did dominate the pages.

The last part of the book was very sweet with low angst and low conflict. The romance and BDSM elements of the story really came together here to mix into one.

Overall

Recommended to people who enjoy a good romance with a whole lot of kinky play.

Quote from Secrets

"Without giving her a chance to reply, once again he reached for her throat, pinning her in place with his strong hand."

See all of Claire Thompson quotes on Goodreads here.

Currently Available At:

AmazonB&NSmashwordsRomance UnboundARe


(Copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Review is on ARC version.)

Profile Image for  Joyce .
1,014 reviews28 followers
September 23, 2016
This I should my first time reading this author, I think there is potential to have some pretty intense BDSM reads so I'm looking forward to reading more.

This book is about a man who was hurt badly in an accident both mentally and physically. He knows his desire is to be a very sadistic Master, but is having trouble getting back into the scene since the accident. He uses an online service searching for his perfect sub.

Allie is a self employed jewelry artist, who after several not so successful relationships discovers this online elite service. After some time getting to know each other online and having a virtual BDSM relationship Allie surprises him by showing up in person. From here the BDSM scenes ramp up, but I won't say more then that.
Profile Image for Andi.
432 reviews11 followers
September 14, 2016
This was a sweet romance with some intense BDSM, including club scenes. Both the Dom & sub in this story are experienced but they quickly explore new limits together. What I liked most about this book was it made me really think and ask questions about BDSM relationships, rather than just getting caught up in the plot or hot sex. I also like that it explores some of the less common practices, like water torture. So, I enjoyed the book but I wasn't completely enamored by it. The BDSM scenes felt ‘technical’ or like a training manual. The way he spoke to Allie felt robotic. I get the role of formality in scenes but it came off wrong to me. Because of this I had a hard time buying into their connection.

Another thing that I struggled with was how the transitions were all so abrupt. There was very little thought or pondering leading up to each of the major steps in their relationship I'm not an insta-love hater. I can get behind it when it's well written. But here I didn't see much exploration/ expression of love feelings or ‘desperate to be with you’ emotions prior to that point.

I did like Liam and I love the injured trope (both physical and emotional). His secret was intense and added an emotional element to the story that I think it needed.
Profile Image for  Thea™.
3,771 reviews11 followers
November 23, 2017
I absolutely liked this book. I'd say: a sweet and beautiful love story with heavy/intense BDSM scenes. Great story building, fantastic secondary characters, a complete package with a beginning and a happy end. The sex scenes were scorching hot... however a few times they felt incomplete for me; they just ended when I expected more. And I didn't like the face slapping; that's a definite no-no for me. Why not 5 stars? IDK... the story was a bit too sweet, too smooth... not dark enough, despite the intense BDSM scenes. Nevertheless a very entertaining book!
{Ondanks de intense BDSM scenes, vond ik dit verhaal een btje zoetsappig; boeketreeksgevoel.}
The Erogenous Zone; BotM September 2016.
Profile Image for Joanne Jones.
154 reviews117 followers
August 23, 2016
I loved this book from Claire!!

Did it give me a book hangover:
No it was brilliantly perfect.

Is this a review book or personal read:
I was given this in exchange for my honest opinion from Claire.

What I liked about this book.
I liked the concept of people finding their soul mates and getting their happy end.
The characters in this tale were believable to the fullest because this story is true to a lot of people.

I felt that they were real and you could sit down and have a good old laugh with Allie and Liam.
Lauren (Allies best friend) I think she is brilliant, her charm and dedication to their friendship is great.

I'm so glad and happy I read this because I needed a pick me up and that's exactly what I got with this, it gave you hope and understanding in the secrets they held to themselves and once they were revealed to each other, the love that flowed was wonderful.

Right now everyone knows or should know that Claire can write some kinky stuff but ohhh my my my this book is full scale hotness, the scene's.....the scenes were freaking amaze-balls and I believed in them with Allie and Liam, the submissiveness side of Allie was refreshing and real (sorry hehe I can't Stress enough how this felt) and Liam dheircsnwk (that's not a word I know ;)) but him in Dom mode...made my fucking thighs shake like a whore on a street corner lol he is one powerful Master, i felt like that dude was the king of BDSM or some shit like that, he knew bloody everything and how he explained and took her further YUMMY!!

All in all this is a great page turner that everyone should read.



Profile Image for Mirjam.
1,875 reviews112 followers
July 5, 2017

I had a hard time getting into this book. I could not relate with the characters and felt like I was reading a BDSM manual.

Really???

And after a week she just moved half way around the country. I can clearly see that this speaks to a lot of fans of this genre, and while I do love reading BDSM novels this was just not my cup of of tea.


The Erogenous Zone, Book of the Month September 2016
Profile Image for Aundrea Mielke.
133 reviews2 followers
August 7, 2016
BDSM romance at it finest. Allie meets Liam online and the sparks fly right from the start. Both hold a secret that could end those sparks. The book is about them exploring thier needs and wants, while working through those secrets. The BDSM scenes were intense but you could relate to the intentions that make a person fly.
Profile Image for Samantha L.
184 reviews4 followers
August 22, 2016
As a reader, it is always exciting when you come across a new author that writes the types of books that you know are right up your alley. So when I came across this book by Claire Thompson, I knew that I definitely wanted to read this book. What is even more awesome as a reader is when you take the chance on the author and get to the end of the book, and it delivered. This is how I felt at the end of Secrets.

Allie knows without a doubt that she is sexually submissive. But every time she has engaged in play, she knows that something has been missing. Maybe not something, but someone that will make her push the boundaries of her mind and pain and pleasure. After many attempts at finding what she wants, a chance encounter with a stranger puts her onto the BDSMConnections website. An online meeting place for Dominants and Submissives. She didn’t really expect anything much until she is contacted by Master Liam.

Liam can’t deny that he's a Dominant through and through. After a horrific accident left him injured, and emotionally broken, he has a hard time taking the leap of faith back into the lifestyle that he so misses. Finding Allie’s profile on BDSMConnections allows him to explore his return to the lifestyle without having the share all his secrets.

But when Allie takes matters into her own hand and forces a meeting between the pair, the explosion of chemistry and raw sexuality is undeniable. All insecurities are laid on the line, but can these two people, so perfect together in every way, let go of their demons for a chance at their happily ever after?

This book is not for the faint of heart, nor the reader that likes the light end of the BDSM spectrum. The play and the players in this book are extreme – and most definitely heavy on the sadist and masochist side of BDSM. If you want a book that has just a little spanking and flogging, not for you. Yet, if you can handle the extreme play (think extreme breath control and hardcore caning) then Claire Thompson delivers one hot read. Her ability to bring these scenes to life, while still making them sensual is amazing. And the hot, explosive sex was an added benefit.

A lot of the character development in this book and the growth of the relationship between Allie and Liam was via sexual discovery within the BDSM realm. So, be expected for these scenes to be a great majority of the book.

But while sex was a great portion of the book, there was also a storyline that evolved along with the characters. The interplay between self-discovery and trusting another was the major theme of this book. As both characters were damaged – physically and emotionally – I enjoyed the way that they were able to let go of strongly held notions about themselves and discover a peace that they both sorely desired but could never grasp individually.

This book was HOT, the writing was good, the storyline was engaging and I enjoyed the characters, including the secondary characters that played a major part in this book. I guess my only hang-up that dropped this book for me was some of the wording used that felt unnatural and forced. For me it kinda broke the flow of reading, and like it was used to prove a point – rather than the natural flow of conversation.

So if you like your kink extreme, then this is a book that would be right up your alley. Claire Thompson delivers a book that will satisfy those dark cravings and leave you breathless after each encounter.

For more reviews, preorders and new releases:
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Profile Image for Stephanie (Between the Coverz).
578 reviews5 followers
February 4, 2017
Intense, Steamy, and Naughty Romance!

Wow! What an intense and steamy naughty story. This story is tense and raw and takes you into a whole other world that you will want to know more about. This is a story that is extreme and heavy on the sadist and masochist side of BDSM. This book is not for the faint of heart. Nor is it for someone that likes the light end of the BDSM spectrum.

The characters are written to be real and with their good qualities and having flaws – just like a normal person would. This makes the characters relatable and easy to feel that you are a part of their world. The book is written heavy with the sex scenes in which you experience the BDSM world and the different environment that surrounds it. Although it is heavy with BDSM, there is still a story with romance and a couple that is looking for their happy ending.

The scenes are intense, hot and sexy just enough to get your heart racing and wanting more. You will be on your toes wondering what they are going to do next. There were scenes and lessons learned throughout that I have not read in any other book. This made the book enjoyable as I didn’t feel that I was reading a scene that I have read a million times in other books. The story is based on trust of your partner and being honest in everything from how you feel in the moment and revealing the deep dark secrets that most people keep hidden.

This was my first book to read from this author and I was not disappointed at all. I look forward to reading more by this author. I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a good romance with a whole lot of kinky naughty play mixed in.
Profile Image for Barbara.
2,620 reviews61 followers
August 23, 2016
What am Amazing story. Secrets is a story of love and trust set in the BDSM world. A story this reader found herself drawn to in amazement as the couple learn to trust and rely on one another in a most remarkable fashion.

Allie and Liam were both broken, at least in their own minds. Both continued to seek what they feel is totally unobtainable. But one day, Allie and Liam found each other on a website. While still believing they are too broken for the real world, they became close via the computer. But would that be enough? Could they/should they meet? Is it possible that two souls living on opposite sides of the country could learn to trust and possibly heal?

Secrets is an amazing story that delves into the BDSM lifestyle and speaks volumes of the need and trust involved in a true caring, loving D/s relationship. This is a definite 1-click that you don’t want to miss out on
Profile Image for Kathy Rouchelle .
969 reviews15 followers
August 7, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. It gave me a really good look into the world of BDSM and Doms and subs. The main characters were very well developed, as were the supporting characters. The story line was interesting, then became intriguing as it delved into the psyche of the main male character, Liam, who with the help of Allie, his sub unravels the mystery to his nightmares. It’s also a story of discovery, awakening, healing and of course love. And the sex scenes do not disappoint in their hotness if you are into the BDSM stories. This is not Fifty Shades of Grey BDSM, so if those scenes left you uncomfortable you will not like this book. However, if you love reading this type of genre, then you will absolutely love this book. I did.
Profile Image for Lee Ann.
110 reviews3 followers
August 6, 2016
Allie and Liam's story, such beauty in the exploration of their dark desires. Secrets we all have them, and often these are difficult to share, in the exploration of a D/s relationship one of the most important tenets is communication and honesty. Will their secrets be revealed? Will these two explore the truth together? Will love win in the end?

I throughly enjoyed this book, the sex is hot, the scenes are even hotter, but the layers of the story is what kept me engaged. I definitely would recommend this book. Claire Thompson is a story teller of the highest level. She weaves a deliciously naughty tale with real life issues.
Profile Image for Philomena Callan Cheekypee.
3,982 reviews429 followers
August 17, 2016
I really love this authors writing. I need extra hours in my day to lock myself in my bedroom and read more of this authors books. Claire has such a great way with words that I find myself being pulled in from start to finish.

This is Allie and Liams story. Both have secrets that they don't want to reveal but as time moves on and they get closer are they prepared to share their secrets and trust one another.

Really great well written BDSM story. The scenes are hot and sexy. Great storyline. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author. Hoping the secondary characters get their own story :)
Profile Image for Wendy Fisher.
181 reviews4 followers
August 10, 2016
An adventure into the world of BDSM. You find Allie who needs more and Liam who can possibly give her what she needs. They each have their issues that need to be overcome...can they do that alone or with one another? Can Liam achieve the level of trust from Allie to get her to the next level of her needs? Can Allie help Liam move forward from his past? This story is not for everyone, but well written for those who truly enjoy the world of BDSM.
Profile Image for Theresa.
3,561 reviews
November 18, 2016
4.5 A good M/F BDSM novel. More real life approach compared to staged Peyton Place club books. Liam's memory issues and resulting mental anguish were wrapped up too easily.

The face slapping was a personal trigger for me but I hung in there because I understood why Liam was using it to make a point with Allie.
1,884 reviews
June 4, 2018

This is not my favourite Claire Thompson book, it felt a little more like a sado-masochism primer than an erotic romance. In fact in the first half I didn't like Liam at all, but when he arrived in Boston her redeemed himself and by the end of the book I was more comfortable with him. All that said, I did for the most part enjoy the book.
Profile Image for Tracy Grieve.
414 reviews1 follower
August 19, 2016
Sexy and steamy and hot.

Book given for honest review.

Allie Swift is into the BDSM lifestyle and she is looking for a Dom that will take her above and beyond but she has had her fair share of bad experiences from pervious guys and she has a dark secret one not even her best friend knows of but when she is convinced to go to a club and not intent on picking up a guy one hits on her but showing no interest he gets the hint and he gives her a card to his website where a sub like her can meet a potential dom.

Liam Byrne has had it tough and now he is looking for that someone that will submit to him in everyway but he has his secrets and then he come across Allie's profile on a website and he is instantly drawn to her. After contacting Allie and talking online and a few skype chats he is unwilling to take the next step and meet her. But when Allie gets a message from a customer and as it turns out she knows Liam and they come up with a plan.

When Liam answered his door he didn't expect Allie to be there and with her agreeing to be his sub he is going to test her limits and this is where it gets hot and steamy, at first Allie is unsure if she can do some of the things Liam assures her as her Dom she must trust him and there should be no secrets between them. But Allie has been keeping hers and at first she is reluctant to share this with Liam. But with trust going both ways will Liam trust enough to tell Allie what has been eating him up for years? Is he scared it will repulse her and she will leave?

Profile Image for Julie Barrett.
448 reviews9 followers
August 19, 2016
Secrets is a scorching hot BDSM romance with fascinating characters and a great storyline. This is a story about trust and I found it to be very emotional. The BDSM scenes were fantastically passionate and vivid, they were also very varied. It was great to see some edgier aspects of play included as well - this was the first book I've read with an erotic water torture scene! I think this is the second book that I've read from this author now, and I really enjoy her writing style - I'll definitely be reading more.

Allie Swift has nearly given up on finding a Dom who is perfect for her, but decides to give an elite BDSM dating website a try. Here she meets Liam Byrne and they embark on a passionate online D/s relationship. When a friend helps them meet in real life, the chemistry between them is explosive. However they are both hiding secrets - can they learn to trust each other and overcome their issues?

Both Liam and Allie were great characters and I instantly loved both of them. I especially felt for Liam, he had been through so much and was really struggling. They were both good for each other and I really wanted their relationship to succeed. I really enjoyed this book, so Secrets receives four out of five stars.


I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
Profile Image for Lita Thomas.
1,561 reviews27 followers
August 20, 2016
Secrets by Claire Thompson is the story of Allie. In the BDSM scene she likes the pain. She is a submissive who wants to find a Dom that can satisfy her masochistic itch. The problem is she has a secret. Tired of the scene in her area she decides to go an online site that caters to likeminded people as herself. Not really thinking she could find someone online she figured she would give it a try. She is a hit and many Doms are interested in her. No one has really peaked her interest until she gets a hit from Master Liam. Even though they live clear across the country from each other they really seem to hit it off. On impulse she show up on his doorstep with nothing on but her coat. Liam is trying to reclaim his life after a terrible car accident which resulted in his fiancée dumping him and leaving him with not only physical scars but emotional as well. This was a good story of two people who have issues and secrets which keep them from finding love and personal satisfaction. Thiers was a journey that kept me interested and I was pleased when I got to the end. Each was able to help the other let go so they could enjoy life and each other. The sex between the two wasn’t bad either. I was not disappointed. I was given an Arc of the book for an honest review. I give Secrets 4 stars.
Profile Image for Tanya Rae ~ TaSTy WordGasms.
2,504 reviews
August 19, 2016
When I saw there was an ARC I jumped at the chance to read Secrets, for 3 reasons. 1. This is my second book that I have read of Claire Thompson. I loved the first book that I read by her so I knew I would love the second as well. 2. I love BDSM books 3. New Series.

Secrets is Allie Swift’s and Liam Byrne’s story. They first meet on an online BDSM website. She lives clean across the US from where Liam lives. But, they still end up getting together thanks to Liam’s friends. And, of course they have “Secrets” hence the name of the book. I won’t say more because then that would just give away the story and I won’t do that. No spoilers here.

I loved that Liam explored Allie’s limits and pushed her to accept that side of herself. There are things that I know I would never try or even want to try in this story. But, he does these things to get Allie to trust him.

I loved this book and that hunky Alpha Liam!

I received a complimentary copy of Secrets for an honest review and I give it 4.5 Stars.
Profile Image for Kelsey.
97 reviews22 followers
August 18, 2016

Secrets is the story of Liam and Allie. Liam and Allie "meet" online through a BDSM dating site. This site is not your typical Fetlife BDSM site. Immediately Liam and Allie connect, but they live on opposite sides of the country. Both have secrets. For Liam the distance helps him. He's afraid that Allie will reject him, as his last girlfriend did, because of his limp and scar tissue. Allie has her own secrets, but she bravely defies Liam's wishes and gets on a plane to meet him. He is thrilled.

Liam is a caring Dom, but he pushes Allie. Allie is a big masochist. She's never been pushed as far as she wants and Liam knows just how to push her to where she needs to be. It's perfect. Eventually the secrets of both unfold and the two work through them.

I loved the main characters, the supporting characters, the story, and I think I'll love the series. I give Secrets FIVE STARS!
Profile Image for Melissa King.
343 reviews2 followers
August 20, 2016
Secrets is the first book that I have read of Claire Thompson's. She does a nice job of writing a story with BDSM in it.

Allie Swift is smart,funny, genuine with just the right amount of sass. She’s independent and strong-willed. She been looking for a Dom to truly fulfill her needs into the true reaches of sadomasochism. Then she finally meets Liam on line and feels a true connection but she has a secret that she is keeping from him.

Liam Byrne is pretty damn hot, with a strong sexy neck and broad shoulders. He is dealing with a lot after being in head on collision with a drunk driver a year ago. Now he met Allie and they are trying to work on a D/s relationship. But he is also keeping apart of himself away from Allie. Can these two drop their walls and let love in their relationship?

This is a good book to read if you like a love story with BDSM.
Profile Image for Aisling Cooper.
183 reviews25 followers
August 31, 2016
Allie Swift is 30 years old and living in Boston, making jewellery for a living.

Liam Byne is 32 years old, living in Portland and is self-employed helping people get grants for other companies.

This book is more than just most books where you just get a load of BDSM scenes and a bit of a relationship between the Dom & submissive. This story involves both Allie and Liam having to come to terms with difficult things that have happened in their lives and deciding if their relationship as Dom & sub is going to work. The book also taught me a few new things about BSDM which I always like rather than just going over old ground which some books do, I especially liked the group session near the end. I’m just hoping that she will bring out another book like this one.

This review was written on behalf of Amo & Sarah's book corner.
25 reviews
September 3, 2016
This is a passion fill book that grips you from the very first page with sex and humour.
As the book develops it get bolder and deeper into to the dark, mysterious world of BDSM.
This book is a little to masochistic for my personal taste but it still drew me in and made me think about what that could do for someone.
I loved the history of the characters and there struggles to get to where they need to be. The characters are so realistic and I could full relate and see them as people.
The ending is a gripping and leaves you wondering what there future with hold for them all.
Very good read if you like to be drawn into a book and loose yourself for s few hours.

Gifted in exchange for a honest review.
Review on behalf of Amo and Sarah's book corner by Shelley Smith.
Profile Image for Ashley .
96 reviews15 followers
August 7, 2016
What the heck did I just read?! This is my first book by Claire Thompson and I was blown away! Her characters and story line are fantastic!! The book had suspense and so much heat! The sex scenes set me on fire, they were so well written and so descriptive I felt like I was there. This book had BDSM elements but yet so much emotion! The love between Allie and Liam was heart wrenching. The trust and respect they have for one another comes right off the page. This book was about desire, fantasies, giving control, taking control and most of all trust in the one that you give your heart and your life to. This book I will keep with me. I cannot wait to see what Claire Thompson has for us next!
Profile Image for Katrina.
864 reviews16 followers
August 23, 2016
SECRETS is the first book I have read by Claire Thompson and I cannot wait to read another one. This book is edgy and raw and takes the reader into a whole other world. Liam is not your average dom. He's strict yet not harsh...he's flawed yet still manages to overcome all the hurdles life has thrown at him. When Allie comes into his life, his reclusiveness starts to dissolve, and as she too has secrets of her own, they are definitely a match made in BDSM heaven.
SECRETS is well written and extremely descriptive in the intense scenes. I really liked the characters and the secondary characters are a bonus too. Highly recommended
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews

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