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Royal Secrets #1
Secrets Among the Tides
The sea kingdom of Thalassar has a deadly secret: the one true heir has gone missing.
To save the kingdom, a lookalike is quickly thrown in her place.
Maisie is a waitress, not a royal. The glittering crowns, silk gowns, and three charming mermen can't distract her from the real danger hidden in plain sight.
There was a reason the princess disappeared: she knew too much...and someone wanted her dead.
A Mermaid Reverse Harem Romance.
To save the kingdom, a lookalike is quickly thrown in her place.
Maisie is a waitress, not a royal. The glittering crowns, silk gowns, and three charming mermen can't distract her from the real danger hidden in plain sight.
There was a reason the princess disappeared: she knew too much...and someone wanted her dead.
A Mermaid Reverse Harem Romance.
331 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 30, 2018
204 people are currently reading
825 people want to read
About the author
Aleera Anaya Ceres
48 books447 followersAleera Anaya Ceres is the International Bestselling author of several series including the Origins of the Six series and the Daughter of Triton series. Like most introverts, Aleera prefers to curl up with a good book, listen to music, paint, read tarot cards, and snack on the tears and heartbreak of her readers.
A proud Mexican-American from the state of Kansas, Aleera currently resides in Tlaxcala, Mexico with her husband and children.
A proud Mexican-American from the state of Kansas, Aleera currently resides in Tlaxcala, Mexico with her husband and children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
December 31, 2018
I couldn't put it down!
Just when I thought I'll never find an interesting book to read, I found this treasure. What I love most about it was that it kept me guessing and forming theories of my own as the story progressed. It was fun to read. The mystery behind the princess' disappearance, the jealousy, the romance and all the twists kept me at the edge of my seat. I literally screamed no when it was done for I wanted to read more. The characters were very well-written and the world that the author created was quite intriguing astonishing. It was beautiful. How I wish I could be part of their world and flip my own fabulous fins and tail. It's not your ordinary mermaid book. I definitely recommend it to everyone and I can't wait to read what's in store for book two as this ended with a cliffhanger.
Just when I thought I'll never find an interesting book to read, I found this treasure. What I love most about it was that it kept me guessing and forming theories of my own as the story progressed. It was fun to read. The mystery behind the princess' disappearance, the jealousy, the romance and all the twists kept me at the edge of my seat. I literally screamed no when it was done for I wanted to read more. The characters were very well-written and the world that the author created was quite intriguing astonishing. It was beautiful. How I wish I could be part of their world and flip my own fabulous fins and tail. It's not your ordinary mermaid book. I definitely recommend it to everyone and I can't wait to read what's in store for book two as this ended with a cliffhanger.
May 24, 2024
⤷ ꒰ 3.5 ☆ ꒱
Want to Read
August 3, 2024🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/15/2022)! 🎁
December 8, 2018
HOLY SH*T TALK ABOUT A CLIFFHANGER
I cannot wait for book 2!!
I was hooked from page 1.
This book is amazing. I loved the universe and the characters. Maise is like a 21st century Ariel that grew up and instead of remaining a selfish little thing, went out to actually change things for others and make things better.
I’ve always loved mermaids, I think every little girl did, and I’ve just realized I had never read a romance with mermaids before, which makes this book even better.
There’s true diversity and thought and I just wish I could jump into the universe and document everything and ask questions.
👏🏼👏🏼 really well done
I cannot wait for book 2!!
I was hooked from page 1.
This book is amazing. I loved the universe and the characters. Maise is like a 21st century Ariel that grew up and instead of remaining a selfish little thing, went out to actually change things for others and make things better.
I’ve always loved mermaids, I think every little girl did, and I’ve just realized I had never read a romance with mermaids before, which makes this book even better.
There’s true diversity and thought and I just wish I could jump into the universe and document everything and ask questions.
👏🏼👏🏼 really well done
November 9, 2019
Just what I was looking for
100% loved this I was looking for a pirate book and no this doesn’t have pirates it has so much more I am so glad I read it as recommended!!! Such an amazing read !!!
100% loved this I was looking for a pirate book and no this doesn’t have pirates it has so much more I am so glad I read it as recommended!!! Such an amazing read !!!
December 10, 2018
This was a great read, it took me a bit to get into the story (ok not really, I was in like chapter 2), but once I got sucked in, I fell in love with Maisie and her story. This was a COMPLETELY awesome and original story and Aleera Anaya Ceres did an amazing job with the writing. The attention to detail, creative world building and characters were all amazingly done. I was thoroughly entertained and that ending!! I can not wait to find out how that all pans out, the whole thing is a disaster waiting to happen, but is so incredibly intriguing you can’t help but want more.
December 30, 2024
I downloaded the first book through a ‘stuff your kindle day’ without checking if the others in the series are on kindle unlimited I’m devastated they aren’t 😭 maybe one day I’ll purchase the rest of the series but this was such a fun book! Lots of twists and I really can’t tell which male character I want her with most! I also want to see if she is actually the princess and maybe has amnesia or something. Ahhh I need to see what happens!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2018
Such a wonderful book. I definitely loved it with all it's twists and turns. Lots of humor, action, suspense. All and all a wonderful book. Thanks so much for writing another wonderful gem of a book.
December 10, 2018
Wow what a cliffhanger!!! Really enjoyed reading this. Loved the characters and the details of the world Aleera brought to life. Can't wait for the next book!
December 10, 2018
Yet again another great book. Couldn't put it down. Now to wait for book two!
December 18, 2018
Major Cliffhanger
I didn't have any idea of what to expect with this book but I ended up really enjoying it. My only complaint about the whole thing was the heckin cliffhanger! Even then, it seems like book two is releasing soon so at least it won't be a long, painful wait. Looking forward to more!
I didn't have any idea of what to expect with this book but I ended up really enjoying it. My only complaint about the whole thing was the heckin cliffhanger! Even then, it seems like book two is releasing soon so at least it won't be a long, painful wait. Looking forward to more!
May 13, 2022
THE ENDING
January 6, 2019
I am dying y’all! Seriously dying. That ending! Cliffhanger city. I was hesitant going into this book but it was so good! I’ve never read a romance about mermaids. So I was nervous about that. But I shouldn’t have been. I loved Maisie and I loved the black blade! I loved the writing, I loved the characters and I loved the story. I just loved the whole dang thing!
I am so looking forward to the next book. Too bad I have to wait two weeks to read it. I’ll just be sobbing in a corner until then. Bye.
I am so looking forward to the next book. Too bad I have to wait two weeks to read it. I’ll just be sobbing in a corner until then. Bye.
January 9, 2019
Intriguing, pulls you in....
Well, I eas just searching for a new RH to read when this popped up in my feed. Didn't know what to expect but was excited because I haven't read to many mermaid stories, let alone RH. So I dug in and 2 hours later I want more. Maisie is a strong MC and the men introduced through the story have very strong personalities. It does end with a cliffhanger that has me glad I don't have to wait long for the second book. Definitely keeping up with this series.
Well, I eas just searching for a new RH to read when this popped up in my feed. Didn't know what to expect but was excited because I haven't read to many mermaid stories, let alone RH. So I dug in and 2 hours later I want more. Maisie is a strong MC and the men introduced through the story have very strong personalities. It does end with a cliffhanger that has me glad I don't have to wait long for the second book. Definitely keeping up with this series.
June 26, 2019
Wow
I can’t believe I haven’t heard of this book. It was great.
-Multiple POV, but mainly told from female MC
-3 possible love interests, but definitely slow burn. The build up and angst is captivating.
-Suspense, mer people, royalty, betrayal, rebellion, secrets
Definitely read this book! I can’t wait to see how the series progresses.
I can’t believe I haven’t heard of this book. It was great.
-Multiple POV, but mainly told from female MC
-3 possible love interests, but definitely slow burn. The build up and angst is captivating.
-Suspense, mer people, royalty, betrayal, rebellion, secrets
Definitely read this book! I can’t wait to see how the series progresses.
August 14, 2019
Secrets among the tides
I absolutely adored this book. I couldn’t put it down. I loved the idea of a reverse harem about mermaids. This did not disappoint. So much emotion was depicted in these pages and the cliffhanger at the end about killed me! Can’t wait to read the next one.
I absolutely adored this book. I couldn’t put it down. I loved the idea of a reverse harem about mermaids. This did not disappoint. So much emotion was depicted in these pages and the cliffhanger at the end about killed me! Can’t wait to read the next one.
August 29, 2019
Great start
This is the first mer book I’ve read that actually takes place under the water. I really enjoyed the mystery and intrigue and am diving right in to book 2.
This is the first mer book I’ve read that actually takes place under the water. I really enjoyed the mystery and intrigue and am diving right in to book 2.
April 7, 2021
CLIFFHANGER
Great read, slow build. I was on the edge of my seat at the end. I need the next book!
Great read, slow build. I was on the edge of my seat at the end. I need the next book!
March 19, 2021
"There's a lot of secrets in these royal tides, and I meant to uncover them all."
4.5/5
First off, make sure you have book two handy! That cliffhanger will leave you speechless. I absolutely loved this book. I don't often read mermaid books but Ceres created such a beautiful world underwater that I was captivated from the beginning. I also love multiple POV!
The book follows Maisie, a waitress, who must now pretend to be the missing princess. Throughout the story there is action, lust, twists and turns! This book is a reverse harem, and while the first book doesn't contain much romance, the following two are said to be packed with it!
The attention to detail and the vivid descriptions make this book so enjoyable to read. Along with the details, the overall plot was fantastic! It reminded me almost of the Princess and the Pauper. While the beginning started off slow, it was necessary to gain all of the background needed to understand what was going on.
The characters are so likable that you become instantly invested in what happens. Maisie is a fierce and strong woman who wants nothing more than to help her people. She is the polar opposite of the missing princess. There are quite a few possible love interests in this, and I honestly can't decide who I want her to end up with!
Make sure you download book 2! You won't want to miss what happens next!
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
4.5/5
First off, make sure you have book two handy! That cliffhanger will leave you speechless. I absolutely loved this book. I don't often read mermaid books but Ceres created such a beautiful world underwater that I was captivated from the beginning. I also love multiple POV!
The book follows Maisie, a waitress, who must now pretend to be the missing princess. Throughout the story there is action, lust, twists and turns! This book is a reverse harem, and while the first book doesn't contain much romance, the following two are said to be packed with it!
The attention to detail and the vivid descriptions make this book so enjoyable to read. Along with the details, the overall plot was fantastic! It reminded me almost of the Princess and the Pauper. While the beginning started off slow, it was necessary to gain all of the background needed to understand what was going on.
The characters are so likable that you become instantly invested in what happens. Maisie is a fierce and strong woman who wants nothing more than to help her people. She is the polar opposite of the missing princess. There are quite a few possible love interests in this, and I honestly can't decide who I want her to end up with!
Make sure you download book 2! You won't want to miss what happens next!
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2022
good start
Maisie, the princess’ doppelgänger and she’s trying to figure out the mystery of the missing princess all while trying not to get killed. Look are about the only thing those two have in common. Along the way we meet three men. Tiberius, a soldier who is loyal to a fault and blinded by it. Elias, an infamous criminal that is mysterious and eluding. Kai, the emperors son and the princess’ betrothed, who is caring and protective.
Book 1 is a good start of series that reels you in with good world building and mystery. The characters are pretty interesting and have their individual appeal. Love the details. We’re swimming not walking, fins not feet, floating not standing.
Why would Maisie go around town in her wealth asking for the Black Blade? I’d think she have more street sense than that.
I already foresee the end of this story but we will see.
A few misspellings.
Maisie, the princess’ doppelgänger and she’s trying to figure out the mystery of the missing princess all while trying not to get killed. Look are about the only thing those two have in common. Along the way we meet three men. Tiberius, a soldier who is loyal to a fault and blinded by it. Elias, an infamous criminal that is mysterious and eluding. Kai, the emperors son and the princess’ betrothed, who is caring and protective.
Book 1 is a good start of series that reels you in with good world building and mystery. The characters are pretty interesting and have their individual appeal. Love the details. We’re swimming not walking, fins not feet, floating not standing.
Why would Maisie go around town in her wealth asking for the Black Blade? I’d think she have more street sense than that.
I already foresee the end of this story but we will see.
A few misspellings.
August 27, 2022
It’s 4:30am and it’s taking everything in me not to say “fuck it” and run to start reading book two of Royal Secrets immediately.
Holy fucking shiznuts y’all!! My mind is reeling after everything that happened during Secrets Among the Tides! I kept telling myself one more chapter until suddenly there weren’t anymore left!
I’m not usually one for slow burns but Aleera’s world building and plot are so phenomenal I honestly didn’t mind the slow burn of this book! It’ll be interesting to see how the relationship develops with one of the MCs tho because at the moment he isn’t anywhere near worthy of or good enough for Maisie. So I’m curious to see how Aleera brings him in as a love interest or if he will turn into more of a side character as Maisie’s romantic relationships develop. Definitely something I look forward to!
Holy fucking shiznuts y’all!! My mind is reeling after everything that happened during Secrets Among the Tides! I kept telling myself one more chapter until suddenly there weren’t anymore left!
I’m not usually one for slow burns but Aleera’s world building and plot are so phenomenal I honestly didn’t mind the slow burn of this book! It’ll be interesting to see how the relationship develops with one of the MCs tho because at the moment he isn’t anywhere near worthy of or good enough for Maisie. So I’m curious to see how Aleera brings him in as a love interest or if he will turn into more of a side character as Maisie’s romantic relationships develop. Definitely something I look forward to!
July 21, 2021
Okay, I go through phases where I will only read certain genres. I haven't read a sci-fi genre in quite a while..and man am I happy I chose this book to get my feet wet again. The characters were so easy to relate to. They would be happy one minute, raging the next.. Loving and caring, then hard and distant.. Honest and trustworthy, then backstabbing and conniving. I literally loved and hated all the characters at one time in the book.
If your imagination cannot create an underwater world, DO NOT read this book. However, if you are like me, and you would love to believe that a beautiful underwater world could/should exist, this book is for you. Aleera created a beautiful world that not only could I imagine, but I wanted to be a part of.
If your imagination cannot create an underwater world, DO NOT read this book. However, if you are like me, and you would love to believe that a beautiful underwater world could/should exist, this book is for you. Aleera created a beautiful world that not only could I imagine, but I wanted to be a part of.
October 4, 2021
Surprise
I was super surprised at how immersive and believable the setting was. I've only read a few mermaid type books but this was really well done. The plot is captivating and the characters are unique. So, really the while thing was pretty impressive.
I dropped a star for poor editing. There are numerous issues with grammar, word usage, and typos in general. Thete were a couple of potential continuity errors as well. This would have benefitted from a bit better final revision probably. It really wasnt so bad but I couldnt, in good conscious, give it a 5 star.
Also, slow slow burn. There's no steam in this book. Some tension but that's it. If you're hoping for a steamy read this isn't it. I do appreciate the time spent on relationship building though.
I was super surprised at how immersive and believable the setting was. I've only read a few mermaid type books but this was really well done. The plot is captivating and the characters are unique. So, really the while thing was pretty impressive.
I dropped a star for poor editing. There are numerous issues with grammar, word usage, and typos in general. Thete were a couple of potential continuity errors as well. This would have benefitted from a bit better final revision probably. It really wasnt so bad but I couldnt, in good conscious, give it a 5 star.
Also, slow slow burn. There's no steam in this book. Some tension but that's it. If you're hoping for a steamy read this isn't it. I do appreciate the time spent on relationship building though.
February 26, 2019
That CAN'T Be the End!!!!!
Marissa is an exotic colored mer from the backwaters is Lagoona with dreams of changing a corrupt kingdom after learning her close characteristics to the list princess, Odele. An esteemed Captain Tiberius Saved fights his conflicting feelings while Prince Kai seems to have a change of heart. Truly a remarkable read, though there are a lot of errors that should not have made it past the editor/betas. "To" and "too" are often mistakenly used, as well as "past" instead of "passed." I hope the next book has better grammar, as well as a rapidly approaching release date.
Marissa is an exotic colored mer from the backwaters is Lagoona with dreams of changing a corrupt kingdom after learning her close characteristics to the list princess, Odele. An esteemed Captain Tiberius Saved fights his conflicting feelings while Prince Kai seems to have a change of heart. Truly a remarkable read, though there are a lot of errors that should not have made it past the editor/betas. "To" and "too" are often mistakenly used, as well as "past" instead of "passed." I hope the next book has better grammar, as well as a rapidly approaching release date.
June 7, 2022
I really enjoyed this first book in the "Royal Secrets" series. I downloaded it as a freebie a few weeks ago and picked it up because I was in the mood for a royalty story. The worldbuilding was a bit peculiar at first, but I really enjoyed the slow build, the enemies-to-lovers trope and the entire concept of Maisie impersonating a lost princess. Nobody seems to know how to interact with a princess who is suddenly a lot nicer than the previous one, and I liked the fact she stays true to who she is no matter what. I'm looking forward to picking up the rest of this series.
May 16, 2023
The mmc's personalities and the chemistry between Fc is sooo soo goodd!!
It's so clear in my mind how they, love , care, obsessed.
This series finally brought me out of hopelessness, I thought i would never find books I'll enjoy again.
Aleera , I can't tell you enough how much I love the series.The plot is perfect, the characters are flawless. I hope beyond hope to read more of your new upcoming books.
* Yes, it need some editing, I found some words missed or repeated in some pages.
* I wish there is longer spicy 🔥 🔥 in second- third book. (The pace is good, how they fall for each other was perfect, but I wish it was longer)
It's so clear in my mind how they, love , care, obsessed.
This series finally brought me out of hopelessness, I thought i would never find books I'll enjoy again.
Aleera , I can't tell you enough how much I love the series.The plot is perfect, the characters are flawless. I hope beyond hope to read more of your new upcoming books.
* Yes, it need some editing, I found some words missed or repeated in some pages.
* I wish there is longer spicy 🔥 🔥 in second- third book. (The pace is good, how they fall for each other was perfect, but I wish it was longer)
January 25, 2024
The story is so intriguing and full of political twists. I also really love how unique the plot is, I don’t think I’ve ever seen a fantasy story quite like this! And the disability rep is wonderful with Maisie, I love how she carries herself with her broken fin. My heart truly goes out to her.
The story started out slow, but soon swept me away with the mystery. There’s a lot of plot moments that could be red herrings but also some real clues as to what’s going to happen further in the plot and I’m having so much fun dissecting them all. That final cliffhanger has me reaching for the next book immediately because I need to know what happens next!
At this point, I can’t really tell who is going to be in the why choose with Maisie but I cannot wait to see how this turns out!
The story started out slow, but soon swept me away with the mystery. There’s a lot of plot moments that could be red herrings but also some real clues as to what’s going to happen further in the plot and I’m having so much fun dissecting them all. That final cliffhanger has me reaching for the next book immediately because I need to know what happens next!
At this point, I can’t really tell who is going to be in the why choose with Maisie but I cannot wait to see how this turns out!
January 22, 2021
I honestly don’t know how I finished this book. It seemed liked it was written for young teenagers rather than adults. I don’t mind a predictable storyline, but it has to keep my engaged, and this did not. Slow burn reverse harems are fine, but there needs to be some chemistry, maybe a kiss or two. The closest thing you get to action in this book is a kiss on the hand. Seriously, I kid you not. Not at all interested in reading the sequel.
April 30, 2022
great!!
This is a unique book and hat tackles mermaid characters with aplomb - the nuances are there, as well as the details. They are under water, so the author is careful in descriptions; strikes instead of steps, the cry air bubbles instead of tears… its fascinating and well done.
This is a unique book and hat tackles mermaid characters with aplomb - the nuances are there, as well as the details. They are under water, so the author is careful in descriptions; strikes instead of steps, the cry air bubbles instead of tears… its fascinating and well done.
January 26, 2023
What a strong start to a series! The storytelling was superb. But what really impressed me is how the author really expressed living underwater so well. How the merpeople moved, that freshwater was different for them than sea water.
Also the words that they used, calling something "a shipwreck." The attention to these types of details was just delightful!
Also the words that they used, calling something "a shipwreck." The attention to these types of details was just delightful!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews