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Suncrest Bay #1
Fateful Secrets
It was a mistake thinking Kyro would choose me over his family. Even love doesn’t come before his own blood.
I betrayed him and then ran like hell.
I buried Vanessa Ace and became someone new. For seven years. Until Kyro found me and dragged me back to the life that I never expected to survive.
His father’s gang needs my help and they’re taking it, without giving me a choice. They’re after paperwork my parents hid before they were murdered. I need to get out of this city before my own secret gets me killed.
Kyro and the gang must have forgotten I used to be a part of their dark world, and I relished every second of it. I’ll remind them I don’t break.
And for the person who taught me that love is grief? He says I’m his until we find the paperwork. But the longer I’m chained to his side, the more I fear he’ll never let me go.
That can’t happen.
I gave him my heart once and he shredded it. I put it back together, promising no one will ever own it again.
Except vengeance.
**This is book one of the Suncrest Bay series and ends in a cliffhanger. It is an enemies-to-lovers, contemporary dark romance. Trigger Warnings include: Graphic violence, foul language, sexual scenes, and a possessive anti-hero. Suitable for readers 18+.**
I betrayed him and then ran like hell.
I buried Vanessa Ace and became someone new. For seven years. Until Kyro found me and dragged me back to the life that I never expected to survive.
His father’s gang needs my help and they’re taking it, without giving me a choice. They’re after paperwork my parents hid before they were murdered. I need to get out of this city before my own secret gets me killed.
Kyro and the gang must have forgotten I used to be a part of their dark world, and I relished every second of it. I’ll remind them I don’t break.
And for the person who taught me that love is grief? He says I’m his until we find the paperwork. But the longer I’m chained to his side, the more I fear he’ll never let me go.
That can’t happen.
I gave him my heart once and he shredded it. I put it back together, promising no one will ever own it again.
Except vengeance.
**This is book one of the Suncrest Bay series and ends in a cliffhanger. It is an enemies-to-lovers, contemporary dark romance. Trigger Warnings include: Graphic violence, foul language, sexual scenes, and a possessive anti-hero. Suitable for readers 18+.**
376 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 5, 2021
196 people are currently reading
3047 people want to read
About the author
Kay Riley
17 books381 followersKay Riley writes dark contemporary and paranormal romance. She loves writing feisty, strong heroines, and keeps things interesting with unexpected twists. Kay grew up in the Midwest but has lived in some amazing places, including Japan.
When she's not writing, she is spending time with her husband and kids. She loves cats, coffee, reading, and her guilty pleasure is watching reality shows.
When she's not writing, she is spending time with her husband and kids. She loves cats, coffee, reading, and her guilty pleasure is watching reality shows.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
December 4, 2023
I was out.
I was out of the book slump. 🙏🏻
I was enjoying this book more than I have enjoyed a book in ages. Literally ages.
I was so close to giving this 5⭐️‘s, something I never ever do and then I got to the last 30% of the book. *Sign*
Firstly the positives, the banter was actually funny and I loved how much they each hated each other. There were mixed feeling, but no insta love, which I personally liked more. A lot of the time it was just COLD, HARD LOATHING. It was a great time 🥲
I also didn’t know I liked a possessive MMC, I apparently do. I find his obsession kinda endearing, which feels like a big red flag. 🚩
The flashbacks to them as kids didn’t annoy me and they actually sounded like 11 year olds. The interactions was really sweet.
She was sassy/ super sarcastic, but not in the way that is irritating and would make her unlikable. More so she has an answer for everything and she is quick witted. The period scene was hilarious, no one can convince me other wise.
At 70% there was a revelation, which was annoying, but I rationalised it. Ky couldn’t do anything about it. Then at 80% there was another revelation, this one was most definitely harder to forgive and I now dislike him. I know this is a 3 book series and it can’t always be rainbows and roses the whole way though, but it is already p*sing me off thinking about him explaining away this s*it thing that he did.
I am definitely quitting early which is a shame because I sooooooooooo invested, but I’ve already decided I hate him now 😂.
I could change my mind on this tomorrow though.
I was out of the book slump. 🙏🏻
I was enjoying this book more than I have enjoyed a book in ages. Literally ages.
I was so close to giving this 5⭐️‘s, something I never ever do and then I got to the last 30% of the book. *Sign*
Firstly the positives, the banter was actually funny and I loved how much they each hated each other. There were mixed feeling, but no insta love, which I personally liked more. A lot of the time it was just COLD, HARD LOATHING. It was a great time 🥲
I also didn’t know I liked a possessive MMC, I apparently do. I find his obsession kinda endearing, which feels like a big red flag. 🚩
The flashbacks to them as kids didn’t annoy me and they actually sounded like 11 year olds. The interactions was really sweet.
She was sassy/ super sarcastic, but not in the way that is irritating and would make her unlikable. More so she has an answer for everything and she is quick witted. The period scene was hilarious, no one can convince me other wise.
At 70% there was a revelation, which was annoying, but I rationalised it. Ky couldn’t do anything about it. Then at 80% there was another revelation, this one was most definitely harder to forgive and I now dislike him. I know this is a 3 book series and it can’t always be rainbows and roses the whole way though, but it is already p*sing me off thinking about him explaining away this s*it thing that he did.
I am definitely quitting early which is a shame because I sooooooooooo invested, but I’ve already decided I hate him now 😂.
I could change my mind on this tomorrow though.
July 20, 2021
Get sucked into the world of Suncrest Bay, because you won't want to come back out. From the beginning I've been watching Kay on her Social Media as she started writing this book; then editing. I've seen her ups and her downs, her self doubts, and the smile she wears at the encouragement others have left for her--and it has all led to this.
Fateful Secrets release August 5th on KU!
From the moment I picked up this book, I was hooked. It starts with a bang and ends with you wanting more. You will fall in love with Vee, the kickass, take no names heroine whose past has come back for her. Literally. She is a take-charge babe who learned through experience that she wasn't going to be anyone's victim. Vee is a great blend of a rough and tumble chic who still manages to let her vulnerabilities creep through.
Then there is Ky...Oh Ky. Hot, possessive, smart-alec, Ky. If you love a man who knows what he wants, is OTT possessive...because yes, she is his, then you will fall head over heels for him. I did. #not sorry.
The sexual tension that builds throughout this story adds to each scene, leaving you wanting more. There wasn't a moment in this book where I wanted to put the book down, or try and skip ahead. Kay's world held me enthralled in its spell till the very end...
Now I have to wait for book two...
Fateful Secrets is book 1 in a trilogy, so it does end on a delicious cliffhanger, but it will be so worth the wait!!
If you love dark, enemies-to-lovers romance with sizzling hot scenes, sexual tension so tight it might just snap, and hot sexy antihero and heroine, this book is for you! This book won't let you put it down, it is that good!
Fateful Secrets release August 5th on KU!
From the moment I picked up this book, I was hooked. It starts with a bang and ends with you wanting more. You will fall in love with Vee, the kickass, take no names heroine whose past has come back for her. Literally. She is a take-charge babe who learned through experience that she wasn't going to be anyone's victim. Vee is a great blend of a rough and tumble chic who still manages to let her vulnerabilities creep through.
Then there is Ky...Oh Ky. Hot, possessive, smart-alec, Ky. If you love a man who knows what he wants, is OTT possessive...because yes, she is his, then you will fall head over heels for him. I did. #not sorry.
The sexual tension that builds throughout this story adds to each scene, leaving you wanting more. There wasn't a moment in this book where I wanted to put the book down, or try and skip ahead. Kay's world held me enthralled in its spell till the very end...
Now I have to wait for book two...
Fateful Secrets is book 1 in a trilogy, so it does end on a delicious cliffhanger, but it will be so worth the wait!!
If you love dark, enemies-to-lovers romance with sizzling hot scenes, sexual tension so tight it might just snap, and hot sexy antihero and heroine, this book is for you! This book won't let you put it down, it is that good!
December 4, 2022
A must read series if you love heroines with fierce attitudes
This m/f romance series is a cross between Boys of Brayshaw High by Meagan Brandy and The Heights Crew series by E.M. Moore... only these characters are mid 20's and not in school. Fierce, throw punches first, ask questions later heroine and a hero who goes to extreme measures to try and protect her (prince charming pretending to be the devil). A story where bonds and friendship run deeper than loyalty to family.
There is still another book to be released in Feb. 2022, but I can't wait to see what journey is still to come for these characters.
The only issue I had (just a personal preference thing and not an author issue)... I'm not a big fan of flashback scenes because it takes me out of the moment. I would much rather get those scenes at the beginning in chronological order (although there are times when it needs to be a flashback moment in order to reveal a big part of the story later on).
This m/f romance series is a cross between Boys of Brayshaw High by Meagan Brandy and The Heights Crew series by E.M. Moore... only these characters are mid 20's and not in school. Fierce, throw punches first, ask questions later heroine and a hero who goes to extreme measures to try and protect her (prince charming pretending to be the devil). A story where bonds and friendship run deeper than loyalty to family.
There is still another book to be released in Feb. 2022, but I can't wait to see what journey is still to come for these characters.
The only issue I had (just a personal preference thing and not an author issue)... I'm not a big fan of flashback scenes because it takes me out of the moment. I would much rather get those scenes at the beginning in chronological order (although there are times when it needs to be a flashback moment in order to reveal a big part of the story later on).
July 21, 2021
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book and… WOW
I didn’t go into it with any expectations but if I had, they would have been blown out of the sky by this debut novel.
Vanessa is a strong, kickass heroine who won’t go down without a fight and Kyro is a controlling, possessive asshole that I couldn’t not fall for while cursing him for being a controlling, possessive asshole.
This book was an emotional roller coaster in the best way. Exes forced together with plenty of mutual unresolved resentment leads to lots of delicious tension and some steamy situations, all while Vanessa tries her best to escape the world she ran from 7 years ago. It had me feeling all the feels, I was on the edge of my seat more than once and cursed out many a character for their actions.
I’ve read nearly 150 books this year and Fateful Secrets felt fresh and exciting. I could not put it down and now will be impatiently waiting for the next book.
CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS.
I didn’t go into it with any expectations but if I had, they would have been blown out of the sky by this debut novel.
Vanessa is a strong, kickass heroine who won’t go down without a fight and Kyro is a controlling, possessive asshole that I couldn’t not fall for while cursing him for being a controlling, possessive asshole.
This book was an emotional roller coaster in the best way. Exes forced together with plenty of mutual unresolved resentment leads to lots of delicious tension and some steamy situations, all while Vanessa tries her best to escape the world she ran from 7 years ago. It had me feeling all the feels, I was on the edge of my seat more than once and cursed out many a character for their actions.
I’ve read nearly 150 books this year and Fateful Secrets felt fresh and exciting. I could not put it down and now will be impatiently waiting for the next book.
CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS.
August 5, 2021
I think it takes true talent, for an author, to make their readers angry—scathing-seeing red-raging kind of anger. And somehow garner a raving 5-star review in the process.
This author's debut book blew me away. The plot was refreshingly unique. Character development did not need to be so damn good—maybe then my stomach would not have bottomed out of my ass towards the end.
I hope Kay Riley is exhausting her fingers to get the next book out ASAP! It will be interesting to see what's in store for this series.
This author's debut book blew me away. The plot was refreshingly unique. Character development did not need to be so damn good—maybe then my stomach would not have bottomed out of my ass towards the end.
I hope Kay Riley is exhausting her fingers to get the next book out ASAP! It will be interesting to see what's in store for this series.
August 8, 2022
Why did I wait so long?
I have had this on my TBR way too long! This was phenomenal! I love these main characters, the plot, the back and forth. I want more, glad there is a book 2 to run to. Fantastic first read from this author!
I have had this on my TBR way too long! This was phenomenal! I love these main characters, the plot, the back and forth. I want more, glad there is a book 2 to run to. Fantastic first read from this author!
August 8, 2021
This was a great first book. I loved everything about it. I want to know more about what her parents were up to and what is everyone still hiding.
January 12, 2023
Heroine was abrasive. I think she was to appear strong but came looking cutting, aggressive and annoying.
DNF.
Good luck folks. You may enjoy the show.
DNF.
Good luck folks. You may enjoy the show.
June 8, 2023
I thought I was reading a badly written wattpad story
August 6, 2021
Take a breath, grab a drink and a snack, because once you fall into Sunset Crest you won't want to come up for air. The characters will take you along for one hell of a ride. Vee, is a beast - small but mighty. She is a take no prisoners kind of girl with a past that she is running from. When the past catches up it will send her world into a spiral, she can't and at times doesn't want to.
Her past involves an anti-hero named Kyro - you don't want to love him but you will. He has his own ghosts and his family is the biggest of them and Vee's.
Kay's prose will keep you actively involved and turning the pages. Her characters are well defined and she brings them each to life with every word. You want to love them, sometimes you hate them, and you will root for them to find peace. It's a cliffhanger - I was screaming at the end - NOOOOOOO! I need more and I need it now!
Her past involves an anti-hero named Kyro - you don't want to love him but you will. He has his own ghosts and his family is the biggest of them and Vee's.
Kay's prose will keep you actively involved and turning the pages. Her characters are well defined and she brings them each to life with every word. You want to love them, sometimes you hate them, and you will root for them to find peace. It's a cliffhanger - I was screaming at the end - NOOOOOOO! I need more and I need it now!
August 9, 2021
Where are my words?
This book was great. I went in with high expectations from the blurbs I'd seen on tiktok and those expectations were met and then exceeded. The story completely captured me and I don't want it to let go.
I'm gonna need the next book ASAP.
This book was great. I went in with high expectations from the blurbs I'd seen on tiktok and those expectations were met and then exceeded. The story completely captured me and I don't want it to let go.
I'm gonna need the next book ASAP.
August 2, 2021
Wow, I was sucked into this book. Actually I feel like I was catapulted into it. From the first page you are deep in the action and will be rapidly be reading through the pages to get answers.
Vanessa is the badass you will want to be. A female that can handle herself and doesn't need anyone to come and rescue her. Ry on the other hand will burn the world down to protect her and kill anyone that touches her. Though Vanessa doesn't need him, she wants him and he wants her. They each have secrets they've kept that could destroy everything. The question is will they be able to work out their crazy crap and heal each other or will they end up destroying themselves.
The angst is palpable and clearly felt between these characters. Not to mention the addition of the side character friends like Zak who is always ready to battle for both of them.
Vanessa is the badass you will want to be. A female that can handle herself and doesn't need anyone to come and rescue her. Ry on the other hand will burn the world down to protect her and kill anyone that touches her. Though Vanessa doesn't need him, she wants him and he wants her. They each have secrets they've kept that could destroy everything. The question is will they be able to work out their crazy crap and heal each other or will they end up destroying themselves.
The angst is palpable and clearly felt between these characters. Not to mention the addition of the side character friends like Zak who is always ready to battle for both of them.
July 27, 2021
One thing I can say, the fact that this is a debut author, the depth of this story blew my mind. There is just a level of twists that were unexpected and kept you on your toes as Vanessa tries to navigate being thrown back into the world that is Suncrest. After running for so long and all of a sudden is stumbled upon, Vee couldn’t hide from Kyro anymore. There is so much slow burn between these two with all the angst that has your mind going wtf is going to happen next. While this story can be slow at times, I found it great because it gave such an epic world build. You get that depth and you can honestly feel that story play out in front of you.
As this story progresses, you can see and feel how conflicted Vee is when it comes to Ky and it is so heartbreaking and earth shattering at moments. I don’t blame her whatsoever for her reactions. There are so many secrets and twists that get thrown at her that she doesn’t know if she is coming or going. It is intense and raw. The connection between her and Ky is sizzling and passionate but those secrets will burn them both. How it ended though? I NEED the second book like stat! I am super excited to see how this will play out and what more we will get from this author! I highly recommend this one!
As this story progresses, you can see and feel how conflicted Vee is when it comes to Ky and it is so heartbreaking and earth shattering at moments. I don’t blame her whatsoever for her reactions. There are so many secrets and twists that get thrown at her that she doesn’t know if she is coming or going. It is intense and raw. The connection between her and Ky is sizzling and passionate but those secrets will burn them both. How it ended though? I NEED the second book like stat! I am super excited to see how this will play out and what more we will get from this author! I highly recommend this one!
October 12, 2021
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC of Kay Rileys debut Dark Romance book “Fateful Secrets” and…
IT’S FANTASTIC!! I usually shy away from dark romances cause I’m such a bubbly person 🤪 sike but wow, she’s turned the tide for me and now I need them all!!!!
As soon as I started this book, I knew I was in trouble - I couldn’t put it down! All of the characters grab your attention and will not let you go!!!!
TBH still reeling.
This book is not for the faint of heart definitely check Trigger Warnings before you decide to read it!
The sexual tension in this book is PHENOMENAL! Like fan myself cause it’s hot in here spice.
I don’t wanna be dramatic but I would die for Vanessa and Ky just so they could get a happily ever after. I mean they might let me sooo…
This is book 1 of 3 and ends on a serious cliffhanger so be warned! But pick it up ASAP!
IT’S FANTASTIC!! I usually shy away from dark romances cause I’m such a bubbly person 🤪 sike but wow, she’s turned the tide for me and now I need them all!!!!
As soon as I started this book, I knew I was in trouble - I couldn’t put it down! All of the characters grab your attention and will not let you go!!!!
TBH still reeling.
This book is not for the faint of heart definitely check Trigger Warnings before you decide to read it!
The sexual tension in this book is PHENOMENAL! Like fan myself cause it’s hot in here spice.
I don’t wanna be dramatic but I would die for Vanessa and Ky just so they could get a happily ever after. I mean they might let me sooo…
This is book 1 of 3 and ends on a serious cliffhanger so be warned! But pick it up ASAP!
September 14, 2021
I am going with 3/5 for this one. While I appreciated that Vee was a fighter throughout the entire book, she wasn’t able to show her actual abilities. She was constantly surrounded by multiple men who immediately subdued her. It made it hard to read because as the reader, I’m rooting for her to actually make progress, but I just kept getting pulled back into the “planning” phase of getting away. I feel like the few hits she made were quickly gotten over and then she was under attack by the same people.
Lots of repetition with characters, how they met, who they were, etc. At one point during a flashback you get introduced to a character who was already introduced at the beginning of the book.
Overall the story kept me reading and I am going to be reading the second book, and while it’s only a 3/5– I did enjoy how Riley told the story.
Lots of repetition with characters, how they met, who they were, etc. At one point during a flashback you get introduced to a character who was already introduced at the beginning of the book.
Overall the story kept me reading and I am going to be reading the second book, and while it’s only a 3/5– I did enjoy how Riley told the story.
February 26, 2024
Ow drama just ruins a book completely. The guy was betrothed to this girl who is horrible to the fmc. Every time they are referred to as fiances it makes me mad. No they don’t actually have sex, but they do make out in front of the fmc, and they are publically together until more than halfway through the series
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2025
Wooow. I can’t believe this series isn’t more popular. 100% 5 star read. Great plot throughout. So many plot twists!! Vanessa uncovers the truths her parents left for her whilst navigating her old life before she ran away from LA. The romance and plot coincidences perfectly.
“I’ll never stop asking to kiss you. I want all your kisses to be mine, Raindrop.”
bristled. “I don’t belong to him.” “Really? Because the look he got when he saw your face told me that he would do anything to keep you safe. He looked ready to shoot me when I touched you,” the president said simply.
“There’s a thin line between love and hate. Both consume your soul. It’s up to you to decide which one is worth more,” he said softly.
“Tell me. What was so bad that you ran, instead of coming to me to help? I would have burned this fucking city to the ground for you.”
His scent was always my cloak of safety. Of belonging. The reminder that no matter where we were, I was home if he was at my side.
I know every inch of you. Inside and out. No amount of time apart can change that.”
“An appetizer isn’t enough. It’s been seven years since I got to taste my favorite meal.” “And baby, I’m fucking starving for it.”
“Oh fuck. Fuck,” I shrieked and shot up from the seat. “What? What the hell are you doing?” Ryker turned to me; his eyes wide. “I started my fucking period. Oh my god. Shit—” Ryker started gagging and heaving when he saw the red dripping from the seat and onto the floor. “I can’t be in here. Fuck, it’s—gag—everywhere.” He swung the door open and nearly fell on his face trying to get out.
hand to try to brush it off him and swiped his cheek with my fingers. He froze. “Is there period blood on my face?” I bit my lip, holding back a laugh at the absolute horror on his face.
“Let go of my fucking arm. Now. Or I’ll squeeze so hard your balls are going to look like mashed potatoes.” The guy didn’t let go, so I dug my nails in.
“I couldn’t. You’re good at hiding your heart, Raindrop. But I see you. All of you. If I told you, then the parts hidden under this cold indifference would have shattered,” he said softly.
She was the reason for everything I’d done. I’d lied. Stolen. Betrayed. Killed. And I’d keep doing it. Only for her. I didn’t fucking care who I had to go through to keep her safe. The Crows, the Kings, my father. I’d ruin them all.
“I’ll never stop asking to kiss you. I want all your kisses to be mine, Raindrop.”
bristled. “I don’t belong to him.” “Really? Because the look he got when he saw your face told me that he would do anything to keep you safe. He looked ready to shoot me when I touched you,” the president said simply.
“There’s a thin line between love and hate. Both consume your soul. It’s up to you to decide which one is worth more,” he said softly.
“Tell me. What was so bad that you ran, instead of coming to me to help? I would have burned this fucking city to the ground for you.”
His scent was always my cloak of safety. Of belonging. The reminder that no matter where we were, I was home if he was at my side.
I know every inch of you. Inside and out. No amount of time apart can change that.”
“An appetizer isn’t enough. It’s been seven years since I got to taste my favorite meal.” “And baby, I’m fucking starving for it.”
“Oh fuck. Fuck,” I shrieked and shot up from the seat. “What? What the hell are you doing?” Ryker turned to me; his eyes wide. “I started my fucking period. Oh my god. Shit—” Ryker started gagging and heaving when he saw the red dripping from the seat and onto the floor. “I can’t be in here. Fuck, it’s—gag—everywhere.” He swung the door open and nearly fell on his face trying to get out.
hand to try to brush it off him and swiped his cheek with my fingers. He froze. “Is there period blood on my face?” I bit my lip, holding back a laugh at the absolute horror on his face.
“Let go of my fucking arm. Now. Or I’ll squeeze so hard your balls are going to look like mashed potatoes.” The guy didn’t let go, so I dug my nails in.
“I couldn’t. You’re good at hiding your heart, Raindrop. But I see you. All of you. If I told you, then the parts hidden under this cold indifference would have shattered,” he said softly.
She was the reason for everything I’d done. I’d lied. Stolen. Betrayed. Killed. And I’d keep doing it. Only for her. I didn’t fucking care who I had to go through to keep her safe. The Crows, the Kings, my father. I’d ruin them all.
August 6, 2021
Let me start off by saying that the main character’s name is Vanessa, which is also my name, which makes this book a little weird for me. I don’t know why but reading helps me escape my reality so having names of people I know detracts from that. But I won’t let that make my review biased.
This book was great! It was so much more than I thought it would be based off the synopsis. The heroine was actually badass and followed through with not being some damsel in distress. She was right in her feelings and her actions reflected that. Vanessa was not the type of “badass” heroine that would do something that would make the reader say WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT? THAT MAKES NO SENSE. She was angry, hurt and betrayed by the Hero and didn’t just follow everything he said.
Along with that though, it was a little frustrating how much of the book no one really knew anything. Yes, there was action and awesome fight scenes, but I found myself skimming at times because I JUST WANTED TO FIND OUT STUFF. I guess that’s what the author uses to get you to keep reading the book (and to buy the second one).
Kyro, the love interest was cool. He was multi-layered and interesting to read. The banter between him and Vanessa was entertaining. Though we get flashbacks to learn about Ky and Vee’s relationship and how it built to what it is now I still wanted more. I’m not so convinced that they’re CRAZY IN LOVE the way the author wants us to. I need a little more and I will read the next book to find out lol.
Overall, very good take on the whole badass heroine, mystery, thriller romance trend happening now. Definitely sucks you in and you’ll be reading for hours. Can’t wait for the next one!!
Also, I WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT ZAK!!!
This book was great! It was so much more than I thought it would be based off the synopsis. The heroine was actually badass and followed through with not being some damsel in distress. She was right in her feelings and her actions reflected that. Vanessa was not the type of “badass” heroine that would do something that would make the reader say WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT? THAT MAKES NO SENSE. She was angry, hurt and betrayed by the Hero and didn’t just follow everything he said.
Along with that though, it was a little frustrating how much of the book no one really knew anything. Yes, there was action and awesome fight scenes, but I found myself skimming at times because I JUST WANTED TO FIND OUT STUFF. I guess that’s what the author uses to get you to keep reading the book (and to buy the second one).
Kyro, the love interest was cool. He was multi-layered and interesting to read. The banter between him and Vanessa was entertaining. Though we get flashbacks to learn about Ky and Vee’s relationship and how it built to what it is now I still wanted more. I’m not so convinced that they’re CRAZY IN LOVE the way the author wants us to. I need a little more and I will read the next book to find out lol.
Overall, very good take on the whole badass heroine, mystery, thriller romance trend happening now. Definitely sucks you in and you’ll be reading for hours. Can’t wait for the next one!!
Also, I WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT ZAK!!!
August 30, 2021
3.5 stars ! Wow , what a great and exciting read! I really enjoyed it. At least this FMC was not a Pushover or doormat . I loathe reading books about FMC who had training, was supposedly a badass , but when in trouble lost all their brain cells . Those are the worst . And I’ve read so many wanna be bad ass who were nothing but frauds . This one, while I did not like her character too much because she just stayed oblivious, and that really weakened her character. For all the smarts and brawn she had , she was so ignorant to everything around her that she just lost her appeal. But at least she was as badass as she was depicted .
The one star knockoff was because of the fact that she just played dumb for so long, it dragged this story out . All that fluff in the middle , I skipped some chapters . It was just fillers. I didn’t want to read chapters and chapters of her trying to escape the house and the guys stopping her everytime . It got to the point where I would read something that alluded to another boring , unsuccessful escape attempt and it just got so redundant.
As for Ky, he was alright. Definitely not an alpha or very bright . He was just a puppet , controlled by his father his entire life and it just seemed as he was still the teenage kid . I think had he told her about everything, it wouldn’t have gotten this far. He was just too easily controlled by his father that he held no appeal. I didn’t find him alpha enough for her and it really felt like he just had a crush on her instead of love her . I don’t know , just didn’t feel it or him .
The one star knockoff was because of the fact that she just played dumb for so long, it dragged this story out . All that fluff in the middle , I skipped some chapters . It was just fillers. I didn’t want to read chapters and chapters of her trying to escape the house and the guys stopping her everytime . It got to the point where I would read something that alluded to another boring , unsuccessful escape attempt and it just got so redundant.
As for Ky, he was alright. Definitely not an alpha or very bright . He was just a puppet , controlled by his father his entire life and it just seemed as he was still the teenage kid . I think had he told her about everything, it wouldn’t have gotten this far. He was just too easily controlled by his father that he held no appeal. I didn’t find him alpha enough for her and it really felt like he just had a crush on her instead of love her . I don’t know , just didn’t feel it or him .
October 12, 2021
Very intriguing plot that will make you want to keep going!
This is my first book by this author and overall it was a very interesting and likable story. So why the 3 Stars, well let me sum it up for you:
What I liked:
-Very intriguing story, full of mystery and passion, which will have you pretty invested in this book.
-Great main and second characters.
-Fierce, independent and smart h.
-Short flashbacks integrated into the story, that give you a better understanding on the dynamic of the H and h. I am not a fan of flashbacks, but the author made them short and sweet, just enough to give us more depth into the lives of the main characters.
-Original story, which is no easy feat.
What I didn’t like:
-Sometimes the dialogue between the main characters was somewhat juvenile, which took away from the story, even more so considering their circumstances and hard life.
-The h anger issues and behavior was s bit overboard. It should have been less pronounced.
-Some scenes seemed very repetitive.
Overall a good book with a great plot. This is one of those books that are pretty entertaining to read, but that require a bit more finesse and some redacting.
Do I recommend it? Yes, if you can get over a few issues. Be warned, it It ends on a cliffhanger. Enjoy!
This is my first book by this author and overall it was a very interesting and likable story. So why the 3 Stars, well let me sum it up for you:
What I liked:
-Very intriguing story, full of mystery and passion, which will have you pretty invested in this book.
-Great main and second characters.
-Fierce, independent and smart h.
-Short flashbacks integrated into the story, that give you a better understanding on the dynamic of the H and h. I am not a fan of flashbacks, but the author made them short and sweet, just enough to give us more depth into the lives of the main characters.
-Original story, which is no easy feat.
What I didn’t like:
-Sometimes the dialogue between the main characters was somewhat juvenile, which took away from the story, even more so considering their circumstances and hard life.
-The h anger issues and behavior was s bit overboard. It should have been less pronounced.
-Some scenes seemed very repetitive.
Overall a good book with a great plot. This is one of those books that are pretty entertaining to read, but that require a bit more finesse and some redacting.
Do I recommend it? Yes, if you can get over a few issues. Be warned, it It ends on a cliffhanger. Enjoy!
October 27, 2021
I really enjoyed this book! The will they, won’t they with Vanessa and Ky was hot. The mystery about what is really going on was intriguing. It’s safe to say I’m invested.
Vanessa loses her parents in a brutal way. She decides to run to the one person she trusts completely; only to over hear plans to betray her. She does what any scorned woman would do - wrecks havoc. She tips off a rival gang and then turns the set up meant for her around on her best friend and boyfriend (Zak and Ky). Zak and Ky spend four years in prison. Vanessa runs - changes her name and starts a new life in Detroit. Eight years after she ran, Ky and Zak come barreling back into her life. Dragging her back home to California, she learns there are many secrets surrounding her and her past. She learns that her childhood and parents weren’t what they seemed. She is starved for answers and struggles to find someone willing to give them to her. The book ends on a cliffhanger. I’m starting the next book now and I can’t wait to see where this story goes.
Final thoughts - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I like Vanessa. She’s scrappy, crazy and fun. People underestimate her and she capitalizes on it. Ky loves her and she loves him. Soulmate level love. Hopefully, all the secrets between them won’t keep them apart.
Vanessa loses her parents in a brutal way. She decides to run to the one person she trusts completely; only to over hear plans to betray her. She does what any scorned woman would do - wrecks havoc. She tips off a rival gang and then turns the set up meant for her around on her best friend and boyfriend (Zak and Ky). Zak and Ky spend four years in prison. Vanessa runs - changes her name and starts a new life in Detroit. Eight years after she ran, Ky and Zak come barreling back into her life. Dragging her back home to California, she learns there are many secrets surrounding her and her past. She learns that her childhood and parents weren’t what they seemed. She is starved for answers and struggles to find someone willing to give them to her. The book ends on a cliffhanger. I’m starting the next book now and I can’t wait to see where this story goes.
Final thoughts - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I like Vanessa. She’s scrappy, crazy and fun. People underestimate her and she capitalizes on it. Ky loves her and she loves him. Soulmate level love. Hopefully, all the secrets between them won’t keep them apart.
July 22, 2021
I received this as an ARC for Kay’s debut novel and oh sweet lord it is AMAZING!!!! From the very first pages until the very end I was hooked and drawn into the world so Suncrest Bay and I never want to leave. Read this in one sitting and couldn’t put it down!!!
You have Vee who is a badass, smart and tough heroine whose past comes back to bite her as she learns more her life is in even more danger. Then who have Ky. Oh my amazingly, hot, possessive, controlling Ky, how I have fallen in love with you and I’m not afraid to admit it.
Vanessa is hiding out after 7 years on the run from home and is found and brought back because she is needed to find information. 2 rival gangs want this information and she is forced to help them try to find this information at different points in the story. Secrets are learned, lies are still being told, betrayals happen and the sexual tension and angst is 🔥
This is book 1 and it does end on a cliff hanger so now I am just patiently waiting on book 2 because I need to know what is happening with my new fav couple Vee and Ky (at least I hope they will be).
You have Vee who is a badass, smart and tough heroine whose past comes back to bite her as she learns more her life is in even more danger. Then who have Ky. Oh my amazingly, hot, possessive, controlling Ky, how I have fallen in love with you and I’m not afraid to admit it.
Vanessa is hiding out after 7 years on the run from home and is found and brought back because she is needed to find information. 2 rival gangs want this information and she is forced to help them try to find this information at different points in the story. Secrets are learned, lies are still being told, betrayals happen and the sexual tension and angst is 🔥
This is book 1 and it does end on a cliff hanger so now I am just patiently waiting on book 2 because I need to know what is happening with my new fav couple Vee and Ky (at least I hope they will be).
August 20, 2021
Vanessa left her hometown 7 years ago, her life was flipped upside down in so many ways in just one night. She does what she believes is the right thing and runs. She has her life set up now and is as happy as she can be, until her past comes back in full force. Now she has no choice except to deal with her past. All she’s learning now is that everything is not what it seems.
Kyro, Zak and Ryder are a force to be scared of if you aren’t with them. Kyro and Zak have been brothers since forever. Vanessa was their best friend until she betrayed them. Now that they’ve found her they need her help, even if she doesn’t want to help. Kyro and Vanessa together is just swoon worthy, they give you all the feels. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
I started this book and couldn’t put it down. I was hooked right from the beginning. Kay wrote an amazing book filled with so many things. I loved that it had it dark moments and has the constant “I need to know !! “ feeling. It really was an aMazing book. I can’t wait until the second one comes out.
Kyro, Zak and Ryder are a force to be scared of if you aren’t with them. Kyro and Zak have been brothers since forever. Vanessa was their best friend until she betrayed them. Now that they’ve found her they need her help, even if she doesn’t want to help. Kyro and Vanessa together is just swoon worthy, they give you all the feels. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
I started this book and couldn’t put it down. I was hooked right from the beginning. Kay wrote an amazing book filled with so many things. I loved that it had it dark moments and has the constant “I need to know !! “ feeling. It really was an aMazing book. I can’t wait until the second one comes out.
September 30, 2021
I picked up this book after seeing KR on TikTok. Her little teasers had me hooked and I immediately downloaded the book. When I started the book it was 1025 at night and I read until 425 in the morning. When I finished this book I immediately went to search for more books/series written by her to download. Not only was I left hanging by the ending of this book, I was SHOCKED to discover this was her debut book. Brava KR! You hit it out of the park on your first go at it.
Now to the book... The main heroine, Vanessa, is everything you could ask for as a lead in this book. She is fierce, witty and most importantly a SURVIVOR! Vanessa is what made me turn the page because at first I hated KYRO. Like, I wanted to throw the book, hate. His possessiveness had me seeing red. Then, that hate faded to loving him! By the end of the book he was back on my shit list. This book is a series of ups and downs. The world KR built in Suncrest Bay is one I CANNOT wait to get back to! There are a few cliffhangers that I am dying to get answers for!
Now to the book... The main heroine, Vanessa, is everything you could ask for as a lead in this book. She is fierce, witty and most importantly a SURVIVOR! Vanessa is what made me turn the page because at first I hated KYRO. Like, I wanted to throw the book, hate. His possessiveness had me seeing red. Then, that hate faded to loving him! By the end of the book he was back on my shit list. This book is a series of ups and downs. The world KR built in Suncrest Bay is one I CANNOT wait to get back to! There are a few cliffhangers that I am dying to get answers for!
December 24, 2021
I liked it, I started this book on a whim after I saw a nice instagram post. And I was wary of the storyline but there were some elements that made me happy and made feel worth the time of reading this book. We meet Vanessa who is running away from her past but her past catches up to her. Ky and Zak have been betrayed by her but they still want to help her out in their ways. There is a new addition Ryker who is loyal to Ky and Zak thus can be trusted to take care of Vanessa. There is a lot of animosity in this book among the characters because there are secrets that we do not find out until the end of this book. It is not a reverse harem, Ky and Vanessa are the endgame still we can expect action with others. The ending gives us a lot of information and leaves us with many questions. It will be interesting to see where the story goes, Vanessa can take care of herself. I just hope she manages to surprise the people who are after her for wrong reasons and takes care of them. That will be fun!
August 11, 2021
I did not know I needed this book! I am a sucker for a good gang romance and this one was perfect. It is the author's debut and I am a fan for life. I was completely consumed in this world and could not put it down.
Vanessa is a strong FMC and her strength has only grown in her time away from Suncrest Bay. She has learned to be resourceful and to take care of herself. She is running from her past, and thinks she is well hidden until Kyro finds her.
Kyro is definitely the definition of a alphahole. He is a touch what is mine and die kind of guy. Him and Vanessa are a bomb waiting to go off. Their relationship is super explosive and the tension is so high.
This book was so good. It's a little dark, little spicy, and there's a lot of secrets that are being hidden. You get some answers in this one, but there are still a lot of things that I am curious about. The end! I felt all of it. I am ready for more and cannot wait to get my little grabby hands on the next book!
Vanessa is a strong FMC and her strength has only grown in her time away from Suncrest Bay. She has learned to be resourceful and to take care of herself. She is running from her past, and thinks she is well hidden until Kyro finds her.
Kyro is definitely the definition of a alphahole. He is a touch what is mine and die kind of guy. Him and Vanessa are a bomb waiting to go off. Their relationship is super explosive and the tension is so high.
This book was so good. It's a little dark, little spicy, and there's a lot of secrets that are being hidden. You get some answers in this one, but there are still a lot of things that I am curious about. The end! I felt all of it. I am ready for more and cannot wait to get my little grabby hands on the next book!
December 9, 2021
Absolutely loved this story! It jumped right into it and it was 100 miles per hour from the start, I love a fast paced book. The vibe is similar to Sinners Playground (but better in my opinion), Vee is the childhood friend / girlfriend returned home and the gangs are at war. There’s been betrayal and Vee ran but now they’ve found her and brought her home. Although she is kept like the Kings prisoner - Kyro, Zak and Ryker won’t hurt her. It’s clear from the get go they would protect her. This book keeps us on our toes, it’s filled with twists and turns and plenty drama. Along with an amazing push and pull between Ky & Vee and a whole lot of steam - love them as a couple! Some chapters do jump to the past so we get the whole story of what’s happened and I loved seeing their beginning.
There’s a lot of secrets to come out and I can’t wait to jump into book 2.
This book is very well written, I think the author is quite new? So if so it’s an amazing debut book.
There’s a lot of secrets to come out and I can’t wait to jump into book 2.
This book is very well written, I think the author is quite new? So if so it’s an amazing debut book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2023
Didn't love it, like I thought I would.
For me it was far too long, the plot was she's kidnapped, fights her captors says, some sassy words, escapes, gets kidnapped again, cycle repeats throughout the whole book.
And throughout the book everyone is keeping secrets from Vanessa the FMC, even the reader doesn't know this massive secret, once you find out this secret it's sooo anticlimactic!!! We don't found out till the 80% mark when it could of been revealed much earlier n not effect the story.
I did love thec FMC, she's strong, physically and mentally, her mouth is funny, and she puts all the boys in their place, she is the heart n soul of the story, defo not Insta love, barely any live tbh, you know it's there simmering but your itching for something to happen.
I need more spice but will continue the series
For me it was far too long, the plot was she's kidnapped, fights her captors says, some sassy words, escapes, gets kidnapped again, cycle repeats throughout the whole book.
And throughout the book everyone is keeping secrets from Vanessa the FMC, even the reader doesn't know this massive secret, once you find out this secret it's sooo anticlimactic!!! We don't found out till the 80% mark when it could of been revealed much earlier n not effect the story.
I did love thec FMC, she's strong, physically and mentally, her mouth is funny, and she puts all the boys in their place, she is the heart n soul of the story, defo not Insta love, barely any live tbh, you know it's there simmering but your itching for something to happen.
I need more spice but will continue the series
October 25, 2021
Fateful Secrets by Kay Riley is book one in the Suncrest Bay Series. Definitely make sure to check your triggers before reading. This book follows the story of the main female character Vanessa. The point or view switches from what is going on currently and what has happened in the past. This book sucked me in from the beginning and left me wanting more with that heart wrenching cliffhanger. I enjoyed this book so much I read it all in one day because I had to know what was going to happen next. Vanessa is an independent, stubborn, strong female who won't take anyone's lies or attempts to control her. Even when her past comes back for her she stands up and shows them she's not the same naive girl they once knew. And the spicy scenes in this book is enough to make you need a cold shower.
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