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4.04 AVERAGE
4.04 AVERAGE
Thank you to the author for the gifted audio book.
The Secrets of Jane: Forgotten has one of the best kinds of the enemies-to-lovers trope—the “you’re my captive” kind of enemies.
Jane has been hiding in plain sight for the last decade, but her past has finally caught up to her, and mercenary Soren captures her. There is so much push and pull between them, and honestly, Soren is kind of a dick. To be fair, he never claims to be anything but, and I loved his verbal sparring with Jane.
Soren is clearly obsessed, wanting all of Jane’s history and secrets—even though he won’t admit why he’s so determined to learn everything. And Jane is drawn to Soren with just as much intensity.
I loved the mysteries and the storyline, full of pirates and thieves, even the side characters were captivating. I think Bones needs his own story, thank you very much. Overall, I can’t wait for the next in the series.
The Secrets of Jane: Forgotten has one of the best kinds of the enemies-to-lovers trope—the “you’re my captive” kind of enemies.
Jane has been hiding in plain sight for the last decade, but her past has finally caught up to her, and mercenary Soren captures her. There is so much push and pull between them, and honestly, Soren is kind of a dick. To be fair, he never claims to be anything but, and I loved his verbal sparring with Jane.
Soren is clearly obsessed, wanting all of Jane’s history and secrets—even though he won’t admit why he’s so determined to learn everything. And Jane is drawn to Soren with just as much intensity.
I loved the mysteries and the storyline, full of pirates and thieves, even the side characters were captivating. I think Bones needs his own story, thank you very much. Overall, I can’t wait for the next in the series.
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Simply put: This book blew me away!
I was surprised at the power and sweetness of this darkly romantic fantasy. I have been reading some darker stories lately and there is a line where the trend toward violence and open door scenes seems to get in the way of the story. It feels more like I’m on the verge of the horror genre. With that said, I know the addition of “sweet” to this review may seem like an odd descriptor, and if you look at the cover you know the dark should be the defining characteristic. But, that razor thin line where you can’t quite tell if you are reading the reality of Jane and Soren, Jane’s wishes, or Soren’s manipulation is what is so thrilling in this book. And this is reflected in the balance between the sensual and almost sweet side of romance and the physical.
This is a pair that many would argue will create a wall between them and the reader. I mean Soren is a Zenith - read mercenary ‘warlord’ with the power and personality of a mafia don - who basically kidnaps and then manipulates Jane into going with him to protect her best friend, Kathleen, and the refugees from her burned out village. His mission: deliver Jane back to the Zenith Council to discover who she is and what she knows…about what? Even Soren has no clue, but Jane’s capture fits his own agenda. Soren is the consummate Alphahole, but there is something that he sees in Jane that sparks his curiosity and that sets him down the path to discover her secrets on his own. Jane herself is not anyone’s maiden in distress. She may go into a situation wondering if she is coming out in one piece, but she knows that neither will you… and that’s the important thing to her. When we meet Jane in Chapter One she is in the heart of a Tavern Brawl and is breaking noses and delivering the best snarky banter with a tongue as sharp, and wit as bright, as a newly honed knife. She is as wild and dangerous as Soren and gives every bit as good as she gets. Escape attempts…check. Enthrallment…check. Physical attacks…check. Sass, snark, and banter…check, check, and check plus. Oh, and did you want a tragic past? Not one BUT TWO SUPER CHECKS!
However, in addition to the two main characters, The Secrets of Jane also brings the author’s keen eye for detail and character development to everyone in the book. Kathleen, Jane’s best friend is so vivid in my mind that I can see and hear her anytime her name is mentioned. Bones and Anya, Soren’s seconds in command, I can actually see them as well, one playing with their necklace while the other sits as a broody guard over Jane -- but I’ll not tell you who is who for that is part of the fun of this book. And Phantom, Soren’s horse, he’s pawing the ground and nickering for your attention too. The Noirs, the other Zeniths, the pirates, the tavern keep, all are living, breathing and fully voiced characters too.
So, why read this book even if you're not into Romantasy? This book has court-intrigue, mythology, a band-of-brothers & sisters feel, witches, pirates, fighting pits, missing parents and families, secret agendas, and magic. Not enough, well this also has the author’s wonderful ability to invert all your expectations and call into question all your assumptions. She leaves you with hints and traces of an idea and a trail of clues that will leave you untangling statements and trying to read into people's actions as you try to solve mysteries within mysteries, as well as plots and plans. All of this together will draw you deeper into this impressive and original story and catch feelings for all the living characters. And the ending, gahhhh… the ending will leave you holding your breath because … you … just … want … to … know … more.
I would sign up for this series if it was ten books, and I'd follow Soren and Jane across the Black Sea to find out Jane’s Secrets because I don’t want to leave this world
I was surprised at the power and sweetness of this darkly romantic fantasy. I have been reading some darker stories lately and there is a line where the trend toward violence and open door scenes seems to get in the way of the story. It feels more like I’m on the verge of the horror genre. With that said, I know the addition of “sweet” to this review may seem like an odd descriptor, and if you look at the cover you know the dark should be the defining characteristic. But, that razor thin line where you can’t quite tell if you are reading the reality of Jane and Soren, Jane’s wishes, or Soren’s manipulation is what is so thrilling in this book. And this is reflected in the balance between the sensual and almost sweet side of romance and the physical.
This is a pair that many would argue will create a wall between them and the reader. I mean Soren is a Zenith - read mercenary ‘warlord’ with the power and personality of a mafia don - who basically kidnaps and then manipulates Jane into going with him to protect her best friend, Kathleen, and the refugees from her burned out village. His mission: deliver Jane back to the Zenith Council to discover who she is and what she knows…about what? Even Soren has no clue, but Jane’s capture fits his own agenda. Soren is the consummate Alphahole, but there is something that he sees in Jane that sparks his curiosity and that sets him down the path to discover her secrets on his own. Jane herself is not anyone’s maiden in distress. She may go into a situation wondering if she is coming out in one piece, but she knows that neither will you… and that’s the important thing to her. When we meet Jane in Chapter One she is in the heart of a Tavern Brawl and is breaking noses and delivering the best snarky banter with a tongue as sharp, and wit as bright, as a newly honed knife. She is as wild and dangerous as Soren and gives every bit as good as she gets. Escape attempts…check. Enthrallment…check. Physical attacks…check. Sass, snark, and banter…check, check, and check plus. Oh, and did you want a tragic past? Not one BUT TWO SUPER CHECKS!
However, in addition to the two main characters, The Secrets of Jane also brings the author’s keen eye for detail and character development to everyone in the book. Kathleen, Jane’s best friend is so vivid in my mind that I can see and hear her anytime her name is mentioned. Bones and Anya, Soren’s seconds in command, I can actually see them as well, one playing with their necklace while the other sits as a broody guard over Jane -- but I’ll not tell you who is who for that is part of the fun of this book. And Phantom, Soren’s horse, he’s pawing the ground and nickering for your attention too. The Noirs, the other Zeniths, the pirates, the tavern keep, all are living, breathing and fully voiced characters too.
So, why read this book even if you're not into Romantasy? This book has court-intrigue, mythology, a band-of-brothers & sisters feel, witches, pirates, fighting pits, missing parents and families, secret agendas, and magic. Not enough, well this also has the author’s wonderful ability to invert all your expectations and call into question all your assumptions. She leaves you with hints and traces of an idea and a trail of clues that will leave you untangling statements and trying to read into people's actions as you try to solve mysteries within mysteries, as well as plots and plans. All of this together will draw you deeper into this impressive and original story and catch feelings for all the living characters. And the ending, gahhhh… the ending will leave you holding your breath because … you … just … want … to … know … more.
I would sign up for this series if it was ten books, and I'd follow Soren and Jane across the Black Sea to find out Jane’s Secrets because I don’t want to leave this world
What the actual fork was that ending?!? So glad I was able to receive an eARC of book 2 because I would lose my mind if I had to wait for it. I really enjoyed the banter and excitement in this book. Would definitely recommend!
challenging
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
⭐ Rating: 4.25/5
🔥 Spice: 4/5 – Explicit scenes throughout, but not overwhelming.
Jane has spent her life hiding, but when a powerful mercenary named Soren drags her back into the dangerous world she swore to avoid, her secrets become impossible to protect. As the daughter of a man who disappeared from Skull’s Row without a trace, Jane is a mystery the elite society of mercenaries is desperate to unravel. She’s a healer, but they suspect there’s more to her—and they’re willing to do whatever it takes to uncover the truth. Soren, who can sense thoughts and emotions, knows she’s hiding something… and he’s determined to strip her secrets away piece by piece. But as their connection intensifies, Jane must decide if she can outplay him or if he’ll become the greatest threat she’s ever faced.
What I Loved:
- Intriguing Mystery: Jane’s past, her father’s disappearance, and the society’s obsession with her powers kept me hooked.
- Dark & Tense Dynamic: Soren and Jane’s relationship is intense, both in attraction and conflict. His ability to sense emotions adds an extra layer to their tension.
- Strong-Willed Heroine: Jane is tough, smart, and refuses to back down, even when she’s at a disadvantage.
- A Web of Secrets: It’s clear that Jane is just the key to a much larger story, and the hints about her father and her best friend’s hidden role add to the intrigue.
What Didn’t Work for Me:
- Soren’s Shift Felt Sudden: His infatuation with Jane went from physical attraction to full devotion a little too fast, making his emotional attachment feel abrupt.
- Heavy Character Focus, Light on Plot: While the world and secrets are fascinating, this book spent more time setting up Jane’s character than pushing the larger story forward. Hopefully, book two dives deeper into the bigger picture.
Final Thoughts: The Secrets of Jane: Forgotten is a dark, tension-filled fantasy romance with an intriguing heroine, a merciless world, and plenty of secrets waiting to be unraveled. The chemistry between Jane and Soren is intense, and while the story leans more on character development than fast-moving plot, it lays the groundwork for what feels like a much bigger mystery. Looking forward to the next book!
🔥 Spice: 4/5 – Explicit scenes throughout, but not overwhelming.
Jane has spent her life hiding, but when a powerful mercenary named Soren drags her back into the dangerous world she swore to avoid, her secrets become impossible to protect. As the daughter of a man who disappeared from Skull’s Row without a trace, Jane is a mystery the elite society of mercenaries is desperate to unravel. She’s a healer, but they suspect there’s more to her—and they’re willing to do whatever it takes to uncover the truth. Soren, who can sense thoughts and emotions, knows she’s hiding something… and he’s determined to strip her secrets away piece by piece. But as their connection intensifies, Jane must decide if she can outplay him or if he’ll become the greatest threat she’s ever faced.
What I Loved:
- Dark & Tense Dynamic: Soren and Jane’s relationship is intense, both in attraction and conflict. His ability to sense emotions adds an extra layer to their tension.
- Strong-Willed Heroine: Jane is tough, smart, and refuses to back down, even when she’s at a disadvantage.
- A Web of Secrets: It’s clear that Jane is just the key to a much larger story, and the hints about her father and her best friend’s hidden role add to the intrigue.
What Didn’t Work for Me:
- Heavy Character Focus, Light on Plot: While the world and secrets are fascinating, this book spent more time setting up Jane’s character than pushing the larger story forward. Hopefully, book two dives deeper into the bigger picture.
Final Thoughts: The Secrets of Jane: Forgotten is a dark, tension-filled fantasy romance with an intriguing heroine, a merciless world, and plenty of secrets waiting to be unraveled. The chemistry between Jane and Soren is intense, and while the story leans more on character development than fast-moving plot, it lays the groundwork for what feels like a much bigger mystery. Looking forward to the next book!
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
inspiring
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
This is an audio book specific review
First a round of applause for the narrators as they did a fantastic job portraying Soren and Jane!I sincerely hope they are coming back to do the audio for book 2!
This book was a fantastic mix of pirates of the Caribbean vibes with skullduggery, wenches, sirens and more but it also had an old world feels I,liar to that of the Witcher and man does Soren exude that kind of energy
So this book centers around Jane our FMC and all around bad Bwith a penchant for finding trouble wherever she goes, on,y one close friend and a history riddled with secrets and lies. Soren our MMC is part of a group of mercy for lack of a better term from skull row that’s been sent to collect Jane for the mysterious council for unknown purposes.
This story is chock full of banter, whit, danger, charm and tension so thicccc it’s like you’re in a Georgia swamp on a hot summer day! Definitely enemies to lovers but with chemistry and attraction they can’t deny.
I highly recommend the audio book literally felt like I was watching a movie so well done! I’d give this a solid 5 ⭐️ and 3🌶️ straight on to book 2 of this duet for me cause that CLIFFHANGER ….WOW
Will be reading more by this author for sure !
First a round of applause for the narrators as they did a fantastic job portraying Soren and Jane!I sincerely hope they are coming back to do the audio for book 2!
This book was a fantastic mix of pirates of the Caribbean vibes with skullduggery, wenches, sirens and more but it also had an old world feels I,liar to that of the Witcher and man does Soren exude that kind of energy
So this book centers around Jane our FMC and all around bad Bwith a penchant for finding trouble wherever she goes, on,y one close friend and a history riddled with secrets and lies. Soren our MMC is part of a group of mercy for lack of a better term from skull row that’s been sent to collect Jane for the mysterious council for unknown purposes.
This story is chock full of banter, whit, danger, charm and tension so thicccc it’s like you’re in a Georgia swamp on a hot summer day! Definitely enemies to lovers but with chemistry and attraction they can’t deny.
I highly recommend the audio book literally felt like I was watching a movie so well done! I’d give this a solid 5 ⭐️ and 3🌶️ straight on to book 2 of this duet for me cause that CLIFFHANGER ….WOW
Will be reading more by this author for sure !
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I listened to the audio on this one. A duet style that was perfect. This dark fantasy world where the MC is the epitome of "Morally Grey." Phew. And the mouth he has on him. Lord, help us all.
Jane, she's a fiesta one. Run first, ask forgiveness later. Or ask for other things. Jane and her Zenith, Soren, can't get enough of each other. And I can't get enough of them.
What to expect? All the tropes. All of them. 🐴 One Horse 💑 Forced Proximity 💋 Witty Banter ❤️ He falls first 🌶 Enemies to Lovers ⚔️ Touch her and die, a thousand deaths.
This was very entertaining, and I can't wait to see where it goes.
Jane, she's a fiesta one. Run first, ask forgiveness later. Or ask for other things. Jane and her Zenith, Soren, can't get enough of each other. And I can't get enough of them.
What to expect? All the tropes. All of them. 🐴 One Horse 💑 Forced Proximity 💋 Witty Banter ❤️ He falls first 🌶 Enemies to Lovers ⚔️ Touch her and die, a thousand deaths.
This was very entertaining, and I can't wait to see where it goes.
adventurous
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Thank you NerdFam and Charlotte Mallory for this incredible ALC!!!
OHHHHHH MYYYYYYY GODDDDDDD!!!!
Wheeewwwwww!!!! This was STEAMY!!!
This was my first Charlotte Mallory book, and she is now one of my Auto-Buy Authors! This was also my first audiobook with Jacci Prior (another new fave!!), and my second audiobook with Anthony Palmini (definitely a forever fave!!).
I was completely immersed and hooked on this story! Pirates of the Caribbean mixed with The Witcher vibes?? ABSOLUTELY SIGN ME UP! Hearing the characters come to life through Anthony Palmini and Jacci Prior's voices was incredible! A superb casting choice for both Soren and Jane, respectively! Their voices portray such a range of emotion for all the action, drama, curiosity, suspicion, and seductiveness that the characters go through and experience.
The pacing and flow of the audiobook definitely matched the adventurous journey - evenly paced with tension to keep your mind alert and wanting to know more! The sound effects before each chapter were excellent touches!! Since the story is in Dual POV and the audiobook is in Duet, the musical effects varied slightly depending on which characters' chapter we were listening to...and that was so awesome!!
The story had me in a push pull of back and forth between "hehehe" and "hmmmm" because there were so many secrets and so many characters to consider trusting as well as intriguing tension between Jane and Soren. There were also some great twists and an ending that leaves you wanting the next audiobook immediately!!
OHHHHHH MYYYYYYY GODDDDDDD!!!!
Wheeewwwwww!!!! This was STEAMY!!!
This was my first Charlotte Mallory book, and she is now one of my Auto-Buy Authors! This was also my first audiobook with Jacci Prior (another new fave!!), and my second audiobook with Anthony Palmini (definitely a forever fave!!).
I was completely immersed and hooked on this story! Pirates of the Caribbean mixed with The Witcher vibes?? ABSOLUTELY SIGN ME UP! Hearing the characters come to life through Anthony Palmini and Jacci Prior's voices was incredible! A superb casting choice for both Soren and Jane, respectively! Their voices portray such a range of emotion for all the action, drama, curiosity, suspicion, and seductiveness that the characters go through and experience.
The pacing and flow of the audiobook definitely matched the adventurous journey - evenly paced with tension to keep your mind alert and wanting to know more! The sound effects before each chapter were excellent touches!! Since the story is in Dual POV and the audiobook is in Duet, the musical effects varied slightly depending on which characters' chapter we were listening to...and that was so awesome!!
The story had me in a push pull of back and forth between "hehehe" and "hmmmm" because there were so many secrets and so many characters to consider trusting as well as intriguing tension between Jane and Soren. There were also some great twists and an ending that leaves you wanting the next audiobook immediately!!
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Loveable characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
N/A