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Best Kept Secrets #1
What He Doesn't Know
On the northeast side of town, there is a house.
The house was once magical, filled with love and joy and plans for the future.
Inside its walls are many things that belong to me — my books, the china from my mother on my wedding day, the beautiful cage once home to two birds, now empty, just like me.
And a man.
A man who also belongs to me.
A man I no longer wish to keep.
A man who, no doubt, has not slept, though the sun is rising. Because the house where he waits is where I laid my head to rest every night for eight years. Until last night.
No one who knows me would believe Charlie Pierce, the quiet, bookish girl who never made waves is pulling out of the driveway of a man who isn’t her husband.
But they don’t know me at all.
I don’t even know me.
Not anymore.
They say there are two sides to every story, and I suppose in most cases, that’s true. But the one I live inside of? It has three.
On the northeast side of town, there is a house.
But there is no longer a home.
The house was once magical, filled with love and joy and plans for the future.
Inside its walls are many things that belong to me — my books, the china from my mother on my wedding day, the beautiful cage once home to two birds, now empty, just like me.
And a man.
A man who also belongs to me.
A man I no longer wish to keep.
A man who, no doubt, has not slept, though the sun is rising. Because the house where he waits is where I laid my head to rest every night for eight years. Until last night.
No one who knows me would believe Charlie Pierce, the quiet, bookish girl who never made waves is pulling out of the driveway of a man who isn’t her husband.
But they don’t know me at all.
I don’t even know me.
Not anymore.
They say there are two sides to every story, and I suppose in most cases, that’s true. But the one I live inside of? It has three.
On the northeast side of town, there is a house.
But there is no longer a home.
320 pages, Paperback
First published March 15, 2018
About the author
Kandi Steiner
95 books13.6k followersKandi Steiner is a USA Today and #1 Amazon Bestselling Author living in Tennessee. Best known for writing “emotional rollercoaster” stories, she loves bringing flawed characters to life and writing about real, raw romance — in all its forms. No two Kandi Steiner books are the same, and if you’re a lover of angsty, emotional, and inspirational reads, she’s your gal.
An alumna of the University of Central Florida, Kandi graduated with a double major in Creative Writing and Advertising/PR with a minor in Women’s Studies. Her love for writing started at the ripe age of 10, and in 6th grade, she wrote and edited her own newspaper and distributed to her classmates. Eventually, the principal caught on and the newspaper was quickly halted, though Kandi tried fighting for her “freedom of press.”
She took particular interest in writing romance after college, as she has always been a hopeless romantic and found herself bursting at the seams with love stories she was eager to tell.
When Kandi isn’t writing, you can find her reading books of all kinds, planning her next adventure, or pole dancing (yes, you read that right). She enjoys live music, traveling, hiking, yoga, spending quality time with her family (fur babies included) and soaking up the sweetness of life.
CONNECT WITH KANDI:
➜ NEWSLETTER: kandisteiner.com/newsletter
➜ FACEBOOK: facebook.com/kandisteiner
➜ FACEBOOK READER GROUP (Kandiland): facebook.com/groups/kandilandks
➜ INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/kandisteiner
➜ TIKTOK: tiktok.com/@authorkandisteiner
➜ PINTEREST: pinterest.com/authorkandisteiner
➜ WEBSITE: www.kandisteiner.com
Kandi Steiner may be coming to a city near you! Check out her “events” tab to see all the signings she’s attending in the near future:
➜ www.kandisteiner.com/events
An alumna of the University of Central Florida, Kandi graduated with a double major in Creative Writing and Advertising/PR with a minor in Women’s Studies. Her love for writing started at the ripe age of 10, and in 6th grade, she wrote and edited her own newspaper and distributed to her classmates. Eventually, the principal caught on and the newspaper was quickly halted, though Kandi tried fighting for her “freedom of press.”
She took particular interest in writing romance after college, as she has always been a hopeless romantic and found herself bursting at the seams with love stories she was eager to tell.
When Kandi isn’t writing, you can find her reading books of all kinds, planning her next adventure, or pole dancing (yes, you read that right). She enjoys live music, traveling, hiking, yoga, spending quality time with her family (fur babies included) and soaking up the sweetness of life.
CONNECT WITH KANDI:
➜ NEWSLETTER: kandisteiner.com/newsletter
➜ FACEBOOK: facebook.com/kandisteiner
➜ FACEBOOK READER GROUP (Kandiland): facebook.com/groups/kandilandks
➜ INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/kandisteiner
➜ TIKTOK: tiktok.com/@authorkandisteiner
➜ PINTEREST: pinterest.com/authorkandisteiner
➜ WEBSITE: www.kandisteiner.com
Kandi Steiner may be coming to a city near you! Check out her “events” tab to see all the signings she’s attending in the near future:
➜ www.kandisteiner.com/events
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,468 reviews
March 15, 2018
5+ stars!!!
Kandi Steiner slayed me with this book. When I hear the words ‘emotional rollercoaster’, I’m like YES. THIS BOOK. I am wrecked, completely gutted. I feel so emotional right now and all I can think about is getting that second book in my hands!
Charlie Pierce is a wife, a kindergarten teacher, and on the outside, her life seems perfect, but on the inside, she’s dying a little. Her life is not happy. She’s lonely, grieving, and suffering all by herself. There are so many moving quotes in this book, but this right here- this was the most powerful line in the book for me, and the one that shows the most of Charlie’s life.
Charlie’s brother’s best friend and first love/crush, Reese is back into town, teaching at her school, making her feel all sorts of things again. This book is a love triangle, but let me tell you, it’s written in the best way possible. It’s almost impossible to hate any of these characters. I feel for them all. And I love that.
I feel so conflicted on how I want this story to go. It’s one of those books where the only ‘team’ I’m on is Charlie’s. Charlie is a relatable character. I could understand how she felt in so many ways and I think that is why this story hit me so hard. She deserves happiness, peace, and love, and whoever can give her that and make her happy and whole again is who I want her with. I did, for a while, think there was a clear choice. Then another POV came into play and it changed things, at least for me.
Kandi’s writing is everything. It’s stunning, lyrical, and I couldn’t get enough. This is one of the best books I’ve read this year. I was blown away by all the feels, I loved the angst, and I loved how my heart strings were pulled on. I stayed up till 1am to finish this book because I literally could not put it down. It hurt so good. If you’re looking for an intense story that will make your heart race, pick this up! I’ve never been so happy to lose sleep reading a story! And the next book is out in 2 weeks so don’t let the fact that it’s part one deter you!
They say there are two sides to every story, and I suppose in most cases, that’s true. But the one I lived inside of? It had three.
Kandi Steiner slayed me with this book. When I hear the words ‘emotional rollercoaster’, I’m like YES. THIS BOOK. I am wrecked, completely gutted. I feel so emotional right now and all I can think about is getting that second book in my hands!
Charlie Pierce is a wife, a kindergarten teacher, and on the outside, her life seems perfect, but on the inside, she’s dying a little. Her life is not happy. She’s lonely, grieving, and suffering all by herself. There are so many moving quotes in this book, but this right here- this was the most powerful line in the book for me, and the one that shows the most of Charlie’s life.
No one is the same once they lose someone they love. They just have to learn to exist in the new world, no matter how messy it is.
Charlie’s brother’s best friend and first love/crush, Reese is back into town, teaching at her school, making her feel all sorts of things again. This book is a love triangle, but let me tell you, it’s written in the best way possible. It’s almost impossible to hate any of these characters. I feel for them all. And I love that.
I feel so conflicted on how I want this story to go. It’s one of those books where the only ‘team’ I’m on is Charlie’s. Charlie is a relatable character. I could understand how she felt in so many ways and I think that is why this story hit me so hard. She deserves happiness, peace, and love, and whoever can give her that and make her happy and whole again is who I want her with. I did, for a while, think there was a clear choice. Then another POV came into play and it changed things, at least for me.
“I love him, Reese,” I whispered, the words cutting me like a dull razor blade as they left my lips. I knew they penetrated him just the same. “Doesn’t change the fact that you love me, too.”
Kandi’s writing is everything. It’s stunning, lyrical, and I couldn’t get enough. This is one of the best books I’ve read this year. I was blown away by all the feels, I loved the angst, and I loved how my heart strings were pulled on. I stayed up till 1am to finish this book because I literally could not put it down. It hurt so good. If you’re looking for an intense story that will make your heart race, pick this up! I’ve never been so happy to lose sleep reading a story! And the next book is out in 2 weeks so don’t let the fact that it’s part one deter you!
March 3, 2020
4.5 Stars
Oh, the angst.
The grovel.
The deliciousness.
Slayed, I tell you.
Oh, and #TeamFuckingCameron all the way, baby.
I will be piiiisssssed...
On to book two.
Oh, the angst.
The grovel.
The deliciousness.
Slayed, I tell you.
Oh, and #TeamFuckingCameron all the way, baby.
I will be piiiisssssed...
On to book two.
March 19, 2018
Do. Not. Agree. With. Reviews. That. Romanticize. Adultery. WTH?
Steiner has, rather skillfully, written a drama featuring a young couple's immeasurable and infinitely tragic lack of communication that unsurprisingly resulted in their failure to achieve closure and resolution of mixed emotions, the least of which were Cameron's and Charlie's grief, pain, and misery over the death of their babies. Five years have elapsed wherein Cameron and Charlie have existed in a bubble without addressing and resolving their feelings and their consequential, residual problems that grew and became so enmeshed inside of Charlie that Cameron didn't know how to help her. Naturally, as a man, he dealt with feelings and emotions clinically -- I think he thought they'd wear down or disappear, which is how most of the men I know would have handled it. The way I see it, Charlie's a grown ass, modern day woman who had a mouth to ask for whatever she needed. Yet, her method was to sit and wait for Cameron to save her, pamper her, do everything for her, which she had been spoiled into expecting. The writer has presented a natural tragedy that many couples have faced and dealt with, except her characters did NOT due to a breakdown in communication. She presented temptation for Charlie in the form of Reese, a long-ago acquaintance and missed opportunity before Charlie even knew Cameron.
Steiner's characters are flawed, and make choices that are, to them, justified. What I cannot agree with are the romanticized, pro-adulterous and illogical reviews that gush about "poor Charlie and Reese," or rhapsodize how touching and sweet Reese is with Charlie. Are these readers not picking up on all the facts and details the author has provided them? While it is a testament to Steiner that she can spin a tale, how has our society devolved to the point we can ignore and trivialize a good man's personal, UNTREATED anguish, instead applauding and encouraging the other man who, without a second thought for the very important fact that Charlie is LEGALLY MARRIED to that suffering man, therefore is not available to be courted, seduced, or comforted in such an intimate manner?! What are these reviewers basing their five stars on? Are they celebrating the degenerate, unscrupulous and sneaky behavior of Reese, who, in his final chapter, admits Blake IS technically his girlfriend, because I don't know in what form or fashion that what he's done isn't cheating - he cheated on his girlfriend when he seduced Charlie into cheating on Cameron. NFW (no f**king way) is Reese "sweet" or deserving of pity, sympathy, empathy, or compassion. He had none for Cameron (understandable since Cam's legally got rights to Charlie, whom Reese covets. The Bible states "Thou shalt not covet another man's wife."
Charlie and Reese's interlude bothered me, because I think he took advantage of Cameron's mistakes, the biggest one being his failure to seek professional help for his own grief. WHY does the responsibility for the lack of communication, distance, and his wife's misery fall only on him? He is but one man who had his own sadness and numbness as a result of their tragedy to deal with. What gives Reese the right to be so selfish he can cheat on his girlfriend and cause Cam's wife to cheat, too?
Is this book a realistic portrayal of true human nature? Maybe some of it; however, let's not glorify Reese's selfishness and complete lack of scruples in taking advantage of a woman starved for attention and romance, or her husband's failure to deal with his own pain. The two need counseling, closure - how is an adulterous affair the answer? I found Charlie to be so insipid, so caught up in herself, and even more selfish than Reese. Yet, Cam loves her, and wants to fight for her. He saw something in her, had something with her, and married her once before, so she must have redeeming qualities I just didn't sense. Again, it's all in each reader's perception of what this writer has presented. I took everything literally, looked at and read into her details, and came up with admiration and grudging respect for Cameron because HE NEVER CHEATED ON CHARLIE, just immersed himself too much in work, which distanced him enough he lost touch and time with her. I could barely stomach Reese as I found him to be a snake in the grass whom no one should turn their backs to; and Charlie left me with a bad aftertaste needing to be mouthwashed and touched up with spritz, bright paint and a makeover. She came across as outdated, tired, extremely needy, and washed out. One star for unlikable characters and controversial choices by characters.👎
Steiner has, rather skillfully, written a drama featuring a young couple's immeasurable and infinitely tragic lack of communication that unsurprisingly resulted in their failure to achieve closure and resolution of mixed emotions, the least of which were Cameron's and Charlie's grief, pain, and misery over the death of their babies. Five years have elapsed wherein Cameron and Charlie have existed in a bubble without addressing and resolving their feelings and their consequential, residual problems that grew and became so enmeshed inside of Charlie that Cameron didn't know how to help her. Naturally, as a man, he dealt with feelings and emotions clinically -- I think he thought they'd wear down or disappear, which is how most of the men I know would have handled it. The way I see it, Charlie's a grown ass, modern day woman who had a mouth to ask for whatever she needed. Yet, her method was to sit and wait for Cameron to save her, pamper her, do everything for her, which she had been spoiled into expecting. The writer has presented a natural tragedy that many couples have faced and dealt with, except her characters did NOT due to a breakdown in communication. She presented temptation for Charlie in the form of Reese, a long-ago acquaintance and missed opportunity before Charlie even knew Cameron.
Steiner's characters are flawed, and make choices that are, to them, justified. What I cannot agree with are the romanticized, pro-adulterous and illogical reviews that gush about "poor Charlie and Reese," or rhapsodize how touching and sweet Reese is with Charlie. Are these readers not picking up on all the facts and details the author has provided them? While it is a testament to Steiner that she can spin a tale, how has our society devolved to the point we can ignore and trivialize a good man's personal, UNTREATED anguish, instead applauding and encouraging the other man who, without a second thought for the very important fact that Charlie is LEGALLY MARRIED to that suffering man, therefore is not available to be courted, seduced, or comforted in such an intimate manner?! What are these reviewers basing their five stars on? Are they celebrating the degenerate, unscrupulous and sneaky behavior of Reese, who, in his final chapter, admits Blake IS technically his girlfriend, because I don't know in what form or fashion that what he's done isn't cheating - he cheated on his girlfriend when he seduced Charlie into cheating on Cameron. NFW (no f**king way) is Reese "sweet" or deserving of pity, sympathy, empathy, or compassion. He had none for Cameron (understandable since Cam's legally got rights to Charlie, whom Reese covets. The Bible states "Thou shalt not covet another man's wife."
Charlie and Reese's interlude bothered me, because I think he took advantage of Cameron's mistakes, the biggest one being his failure to seek professional help for his own grief. WHY does the responsibility for the lack of communication, distance, and his wife's misery fall only on him? He is but one man who had his own sadness and numbness as a result of their tragedy to deal with. What gives Reese the right to be so selfish he can cheat on his girlfriend and cause Cam's wife to cheat, too?
Is this book a realistic portrayal of true human nature? Maybe some of it; however, let's not glorify Reese's selfishness and complete lack of scruples in taking advantage of a woman starved for attention and romance, or her husband's failure to deal with his own pain. The two need counseling, closure - how is an adulterous affair the answer? I found Charlie to be so insipid, so caught up in herself, and even more selfish than Reese. Yet, Cam loves her, and wants to fight for her. He saw something in her, had something with her, and married her once before, so she must have redeeming qualities I just didn't sense. Again, it's all in each reader's perception of what this writer has presented. I took everything literally, looked at and read into her details, and came up with admiration and grudging respect for Cameron because HE NEVER CHEATED ON CHARLIE, just immersed himself too much in work, which distanced him enough he lost touch and time with her. I could barely stomach Reese as I found him to be a snake in the grass whom no one should turn their backs to; and Charlie left me with a bad aftertaste needing to be mouthwashed and touched up with spritz, bright paint and a makeover. She came across as outdated, tired, extremely needy, and washed out. One star for unlikable characters and controversial choices by characters.👎
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2018
MY REVIEW can also be found on my blog:
KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
WHAT HE DOESN’T KNOW: Is a full length romance novel and is the first book in the (What he doesn’t know) duet by Author Kandi Steiner. Spoken in ‘Dual Perspectives’ up until the end then we get another persons perspective.
The cover alone calls to you, I knew just looking at it that I’d be thrown into a world of feels, a world of angst, a world of tears, a world of devastation.
Northeast of Mount Lebanon was where Charlie should’ve been her happiest, it had all her treasured belongings, from her books to her budgies, to her garden and the china her mother passed onto her and the man within it should’ve been where her heart wanted to be but he was the man she didn’t want. Locked in a loveless marriage, a man who puts work before all else, he barely has time for his wife, they are going down a slippery slope of no return, a fast track to a divorce. Both are unhappy but neither know how to fix it.
Thirty year old Charlie Pierce has been married near on seven years and is a kindergarten teacher at Westchester Prep the school where she attended as a child
Now that the school holidays are recommencing a new teacher has been hired, thirty five year old Reese, the boy that lived next door to Charlie fourteen years ago has moved back to town. The first boy she gave her heart to. She was his sisters best friend and he was her brothers best friend they were all inseparable until his family moved away.
Now he’s back and he wants to claim Charlie marriage be damned.
The ring on her finger was a symbol of her commitment to another man.
That alone should have sobered me.
That alone should have been at the forefront of my mind, but it wasn't.
Charlie Reid was married, she was Charlie Pierce now, and still it didn't matter.
I loved her anyway.
These two men are complete opposites, one is the sun the other is the moon, one is like an open book the other is closed, one is the life of the party the other isn't, one wears his heart on his sleeve the others heart is dormant, locked away.
The cover alone made me believe that the author would set me on a heartfelt emotional journey and that's exactly what she delivered.
This pulled on all my emotions, as soon as I picked this up and started reading I was grabbed by the heart, that feeling of devastation as I was nearing the end was intensified when a question was asked 'One month' my heart was torn in half, thinking one path had reached a dead end and she'd then set off on a new and exciting path only to be brought to a standstill, decision time, which path will be chosen has me anticipating the next book like no other.
Putting it mildly this book gutted me, brought me to my knees, all the feels had me crying at 7am, at 11.30am I closed that last page with a heavy heart and more tears.
These are the kinds of books I run towards, books that make me feel, books that pull every kind of emotion out of me that are kept at bay unless an author can awaken it with her words, can make me feel things that on a daily basis I don't necessarily would feel. And this book right here did that and more.
I know some won't read this due to the subject matter but be brave, take a step where you wouldn't normally step and one click this come release day. I hope my review prepares you in some way xox
* Both teasers are off the authors facebook page.. *
March 14, 2018
*****FIVE STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
Reese shook his head with a lazy smile, tucking his hands in his pockets. Then, he looked at me. I never knew so much could be said with a look. Sure, I was in tune with Cameron, or at least, I had been. We could share a look and communicate a hundred different things. But with Reese, there were no words behind the gaze. There were feelings. There was heat, and concern—want and denial. And I was like a moth drawn to that flame, wanting so badly to see inside it, to figure out how it burns, to live within its warmth. But I knew to touch it was to die.
FANTASTIC!! I was completely consumed by this story. This is not for the faint of heart and those of you who can’t do love triangles and cheating will probably want to avoid this book. I think it would be a travesty not to read this one but I do understand about having hard limits. My heart and mind were so twisted throughout the journey of the main characters that I had a tough time figuring out who was to blame. In most love triangles there usually is that one character that you can easily find fault with, but the author really blew that all away by the time we get to the end of this installment. There truly are three sides to this story and while I feel they all had to shoulder some of the blame, I had a difficult time deciding which man Charlie should end up with in the beginning. As the story unfolds I was starting to have a clear picture of who the right guy was, but then BAM that ending left me right back at square one!!
Charlie Pierce lived a charmed life when she married her college sweetheart. Cameron wasn’t a man who was good with expressing himself with words but his actions spoke volumes about the love he felt for his wife. Three years into their marriage the couple suffers a devastating loss and they were never the same after it. For five years they’ve been merely existing. Each of them just a shell of the person they used to be, but Charlie loves her husband desperately and yearns to get back what they once shared. Then on her first day back to work at Westchester Prep, a blast from the past comes barreling back into her life.
Reese Walker was Charlie’s older brother’s best friend and the boy next door. She had been in love with him from an early age but back then their five year age difference kept them from being anything more than friends. Reese was always captivated by Charlie but knew that it wasn’t their time back then. When he went off to college in New York, they lost touch for nearly fifteen years. A few years back, Reese lost his parents and sister to a horrific act of violence. His grief had turned him into a lost soul without a place to call ”home”. Then he gets a teaching job in the town he grew up in and he takes it hoping that it will help give him some feeling of peace to be back where his family had set up roots. He had hoped he’d run into the girl who had stolen his heart all those years ago but never imagined she would be working at the same school as him.
All those years apart have not been able to diminish the feelings that Reese has had for Charlie but learning that she’s married was a huge disappointment, to say the least. Charlie starts off being the ”devoted wife” even when it’s been years since her marriage has been stable and her husband, Cameron seems to have become married to his work instead of an active partner in their relationship. But as Cameron continues to neglect his wife, she ends up turning to Reese for comfort.
The story ramps up with the angst and I can’t deny that it was severely gut-wrenching. Throughout almost the entire first part of this duet, we get alternating POVs between Charlie and Reese, which had me leaning towards Reese as the chosen Hero, but there was always this small part of me that was thinking that maybe it would be great to actually get inside Cameron’s head as well. I felt like it wasn’t fair to pass judgment on him when we couldn’t get his side of the story. We get pieces of him through Charlie’s voice and things we learn did have me wondering if there was so much more to Cameron.
After having finished the book, my heart is more confused than ever! I’m not sure who Charlie should end up with and I gotta say I was empathizing with her until she did something that pissed me off towards the latter half of the story. Even though she does feel remorse over what she did afterward, I’m having trouble forgiving her at the moment!
Here are my overall ratings:
Heros: 4.5
Heroine: 4.5
Plot: 5
Angst: 5
Steam: 4.5
Chemistry Between Heros & Heroine: 5
WHAT HE DOESN’T KNOW releases on March 15th! The conclusion, WHAT HE ALWAYS KNEW releases on March 29th. At least the author was kind enough to not make us wait too long to get all the answers to our burning questions, but I have to admit I am dying already to get my hands on the next book!
FREE in Kindle Unlimited
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2HwSJC8
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2FEFeUo
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
Reese shook his head with a lazy smile, tucking his hands in his pockets. Then, he looked at me. I never knew so much could be said with a look. Sure, I was in tune with Cameron, or at least, I had been. We could share a look and communicate a hundred different things. But with Reese, there were no words behind the gaze. There were feelings. There was heat, and concern—want and denial. And I was like a moth drawn to that flame, wanting so badly to see inside it, to figure out how it burns, to live within its warmth. But I knew to touch it was to die.
FANTASTIC!! I was completely consumed by this story. This is not for the faint of heart and those of you who can’t do love triangles and cheating will probably want to avoid this book. I think it would be a travesty not to read this one but I do understand about having hard limits. My heart and mind were so twisted throughout the journey of the main characters that I had a tough time figuring out who was to blame. In most love triangles there usually is that one character that you can easily find fault with, but the author really blew that all away by the time we get to the end of this installment. There truly are three sides to this story and while I feel they all had to shoulder some of the blame, I had a difficult time deciding which man Charlie should end up with in the beginning. As the story unfolds I was starting to have a clear picture of who the right guy was, but then BAM that ending left me right back at square one!!
Charlie Pierce lived a charmed life when she married her college sweetheart. Cameron wasn’t a man who was good with expressing himself with words but his actions spoke volumes about the love he felt for his wife. Three years into their marriage the couple suffers a devastating loss and they were never the same after it. For five years they’ve been merely existing. Each of them just a shell of the person they used to be, but Charlie loves her husband desperately and yearns to get back what they once shared. Then on her first day back to work at Westchester Prep, a blast from the past comes barreling back into her life.
Reese Walker was Charlie’s older brother’s best friend and the boy next door. She had been in love with him from an early age but back then their five year age difference kept them from being anything more than friends. Reese was always captivated by Charlie but knew that it wasn’t their time back then. When he went off to college in New York, they lost touch for nearly fifteen years. A few years back, Reese lost his parents and sister to a horrific act of violence. His grief had turned him into a lost soul without a place to call ”home”. Then he gets a teaching job in the town he grew up in and he takes it hoping that it will help give him some feeling of peace to be back where his family had set up roots. He had hoped he’d run into the girl who had stolen his heart all those years ago but never imagined she would be working at the same school as him.
All those years apart have not been able to diminish the feelings that Reese has had for Charlie but learning that she’s married was a huge disappointment, to say the least. Charlie starts off being the ”devoted wife” even when it’s been years since her marriage has been stable and her husband, Cameron seems to have become married to his work instead of an active partner in their relationship. But as Cameron continues to neglect his wife, she ends up turning to Reese for comfort.
The story ramps up with the angst and I can’t deny that it was severely gut-wrenching. Throughout almost the entire first part of this duet, we get alternating POVs between Charlie and Reese, which had me leaning towards Reese as the chosen Hero, but there was always this small part of me that was thinking that maybe it would be great to actually get inside Cameron’s head as well. I felt like it wasn’t fair to pass judgment on him when we couldn’t get his side of the story. We get pieces of him through Charlie’s voice and things we learn did have me wondering if there was so much more to Cameron.
After having finished the book, my heart is more confused than ever! I’m not sure who Charlie should end up with and I gotta say I was empathizing with her until she did something that pissed me off towards the latter half of the story. Even though she does feel remorse over what she did afterward, I’m having trouble forgiving her at the moment!
Here are my overall ratings:
Heros: 4.5
Heroine: 4.5
Plot: 5
Angst: 5
Steam: 4.5
Chemistry Between Heros & Heroine: 5
WHAT HE DOESN’T KNOW releases on March 15th! The conclusion, WHAT HE ALWAYS KNEW releases on March 29th. At least the author was kind enough to not make us wait too long to get all the answers to our burning questions, but I have to admit I am dying already to get my hands on the next book!
FREE in Kindle Unlimited
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2HwSJC8
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2FEFeUo
May 3, 2018
4.5 Tortured Trio!!! Stars
Talk about three tortured souls who tormented the living daylights out of me!
This is an angsty lover’s triangle, which ends with an, ‘I didn’t see that one coming’, cliffhanger. I can’t wait to start book two of this duet.
Within the first 35 pages, my battle lines were drawn. I had picked sides. But...
By the time I got to the end, my thoughts and loyalties shifted all over the place. The clear lines I drew started looking a bit ragged, a bit beaten up. Yes, my battle lines were breached!
The writing is superb (my first Kandi Steiner read), the storyline is attention grabbing, and the characters ... well, the three begin the story in different states of anguish and end up even more miserable. It is fabulous!
Yes, of course, I went in blind, and once again, encourage you to do the same! I feel like a broken record, but honestly the least you know, the yummier the ... well, in this case ...torment!
Read
March 29, 2018BOTH BOOKS NOW LIVE AND FREE IN KINDLE UNLIMITED!
★ What He Doesn't Know ➔ amzn.to/2FCEoYp
★ What He Always Knew ➔ amzn.to/2peockX
Keep reading for a Goodreads EXCLUSIVE sneak peek!
EXCLUSIVE GOODREADS SNEAK PEEK:
An excerpt from What He Doesn't Know, book one in the duet...
“Stop,” I said quickly, both to comfort her and to fight against the burning in my throat.
I didn’t even have the thought in my head before my hands were reaching for her, pulling her into me for a hug. I should have hesitated, should have remembered that she belonged to another man, but it was instinctive in that moment — the urge to stop her pain.
She was so small in my arms, the faint scent of coffee fresh on her breath, a few strands of her silky hair falling loose from her bun. I rested my chin on top of her head, rubbing her back with one hand. “It’s okay. Really, it is. I don’t hold anything against you and neither did Mallory.”
“She must have hated me,�� Charlie whispered.
“She didn’t. She loved you, we all did.”
I still do.
“It’s not fair the way life works out sometimes, but it’s okay, and you didn’t do anything wrong. You had your own life to live here, Tadpole, and we had our own things happening in New York. It’s okay,” I repeated, hoping she believed me.
“You don’t hate me?”
She looked up at me then, her dark eyes glossed over with unshed tears, and I just chuckled.
“I could never hate you, Charlie.”
She sniffed, a small smile finding her bright pink mouth.
And I knew I should let her go.
I’d said what needed to be said, I’d eased her worry, but still, I held her. I swallowed, and her eyes fell to my throat before they glanced at my lips, sending a familiar zing of warning through me. It was the same warning I’d felt every time she looked at me that way when she was just a teenager, when the five years between us forbid us from ever being this close.
But it was a new warning, too. One that said she’s married.
My hands at the small of her back tightened, and my eyes watched hers, both of our smiles fading. I wanted to ask her if she was okay, if she was happy, if Cameron was what she wanted. But I had no right to ask any of those things.
Still, I held her.
Charlie watched my lips, like she was willing me to say something. I opened my mouth to grant her unspoken wish just as her dad’s voice called from the house.
“Charlie! Cam’s here!”
She stepped away from me quickly, a bit of her coffee sloshing out of her cup as she hiccuped again. “Sorry.”
“Charlie,” I tried, but she was already making her way through the yard.
“Thank you for coming tonight,” she called behind her. “I know my parents really appreciated it. I did, too.”
I caught up to her easily, reaching for her wrist to stop her. She spun, looking up at me with flushed cheeks.
“I have to go.”
“I know,” I said softly, reaching for the half-empty cup in her hand. “I’ll take this inside for you.”
She looked at my hand on hers, her grip still tight around the mug. Slowly, she loosened it, letting me take the porcelain from her grasp. “Thank you.”
I waited until her gaze found mine again. “See you at school.”
“See you at school,” she echoed quickly, and then her little feet carried her the rest of the way across the yard.
I followed behind her, pausing at the front door as she made her way to the open car door waiting for her. Cameron stood beside it, one hand on the top of the door, his eyes hard on me when I took my place next to Charlie’s parents on the door step.
“Don’t forget to call me about the fundraiser, Charlie!” her mom called, and Charlie just held up a hand in a short wave, not even looking behind her.
Before she could step into the car, Cameron’s hand found the crook of her arm, and she paused, looking up at him. His hand slid up the outside of her coat, up her slender neck to frame her face, and then he bent to kiss her.
When their lips connected, I looked away, down at the half-empty coffee cup in my hands, still stained with her pink lipstick.
“Young love,” Maxwell chuffed, smiling at me before clapping me on the back. “What do you say, Reese? Join an old man for a cigar?”
I chanced one last glance at Charlie, and immediately wished I hadn’t. She was looking up at Cameron like that kiss had brought her back to life, like he was the only man she ever wanted, and I had to remind myself that he was.
Cameron was her husband. I was the boy who used to live next door.
The sooner I got that through my head, the better.
Charlie slipped inside the car, and Cameron closed the door softly behind her, waving goodbye to all of us on the porch one last time. He watched me the longest, his brows low, and I knew that look in his eyes. He was threatened, and he was warning me. I’d have done the same thing if Charlie was mine.
“A cigar sounds great,” I finally answered. My eyes flicked to the window Charlie sat behind, but it was too tinted to see her through it. She was there, she was close, yet she was invisible. She was untouchable.
She was no different behind the barrier of that car door than she was to me in real life, and I needed to remember that.
With that realization, I tore my gaze away and followed her father into his study.
★ What He Doesn't Know ➔ amzn.to/2FCEoYp
★ What He Always Knew ➔ amzn.to/2peockX
Keep reading for a Goodreads EXCLUSIVE sneak peek!
EXCLUSIVE GOODREADS SNEAK PEEK:
An excerpt from What He Doesn't Know, book one in the duet...
“Stop,” I said quickly, both to comfort her and to fight against the burning in my throat.
I didn’t even have the thought in my head before my hands were reaching for her, pulling her into me for a hug. I should have hesitated, should have remembered that she belonged to another man, but it was instinctive in that moment — the urge to stop her pain.
She was so small in my arms, the faint scent of coffee fresh on her breath, a few strands of her silky hair falling loose from her bun. I rested my chin on top of her head, rubbing her back with one hand. “It’s okay. Really, it is. I don’t hold anything against you and neither did Mallory.”
“She must have hated me,�� Charlie whispered.
“She didn’t. She loved you, we all did.”
I still do.
“It’s not fair the way life works out sometimes, but it’s okay, and you didn’t do anything wrong. You had your own life to live here, Tadpole, and we had our own things happening in New York. It’s okay,” I repeated, hoping she believed me.
“You don’t hate me?”
She looked up at me then, her dark eyes glossed over with unshed tears, and I just chuckled.
“I could never hate you, Charlie.”
She sniffed, a small smile finding her bright pink mouth.
And I knew I should let her go.
I’d said what needed to be said, I’d eased her worry, but still, I held her. I swallowed, and her eyes fell to my throat before they glanced at my lips, sending a familiar zing of warning through me. It was the same warning I’d felt every time she looked at me that way when she was just a teenager, when the five years between us forbid us from ever being this close.
But it was a new warning, too. One that said she’s married.
My hands at the small of her back tightened, and my eyes watched hers, both of our smiles fading. I wanted to ask her if she was okay, if she was happy, if Cameron was what she wanted. But I had no right to ask any of those things.
Still, I held her.
Charlie watched my lips, like she was willing me to say something. I opened my mouth to grant her unspoken wish just as her dad’s voice called from the house.
“Charlie! Cam’s here!”
She stepped away from me quickly, a bit of her coffee sloshing out of her cup as she hiccuped again. “Sorry.”
“Charlie,” I tried, but she was already making her way through the yard.
“Thank you for coming tonight,” she called behind her. “I know my parents really appreciated it. I did, too.”
I caught up to her easily, reaching for her wrist to stop her. She spun, looking up at me with flushed cheeks.
“I have to go.”
“I know,” I said softly, reaching for the half-empty cup in her hand. “I’ll take this inside for you.”
She looked at my hand on hers, her grip still tight around the mug. Slowly, she loosened it, letting me take the porcelain from her grasp. “Thank you.”
I waited until her gaze found mine again. “See you at school.”
“See you at school,” she echoed quickly, and then her little feet carried her the rest of the way across the yard.
I followed behind her, pausing at the front door as she made her way to the open car door waiting for her. Cameron stood beside it, one hand on the top of the door, his eyes hard on me when I took my place next to Charlie’s parents on the door step.
“Don’t forget to call me about the fundraiser, Charlie!” her mom called, and Charlie just held up a hand in a short wave, not even looking behind her.
Before she could step into the car, Cameron’s hand found the crook of her arm, and she paused, looking up at him. His hand slid up the outside of her coat, up her slender neck to frame her face, and then he bent to kiss her.
When their lips connected, I looked away, down at the half-empty coffee cup in my hands, still stained with her pink lipstick.
“Young love,” Maxwell chuffed, smiling at me before clapping me on the back. “What do you say, Reese? Join an old man for a cigar?”
I chanced one last glance at Charlie, and immediately wished I hadn’t. She was looking up at Cameron like that kiss had brought her back to life, like he was the only man she ever wanted, and I had to remind myself that he was.
Cameron was her husband. I was the boy who used to live next door.
The sooner I got that through my head, the better.
Charlie slipped inside the car, and Cameron closed the door softly behind her, waving goodbye to all of us on the porch one last time. He watched me the longest, his brows low, and I knew that look in his eyes. He was threatened, and he was warning me. I’d have done the same thing if Charlie was mine.
“A cigar sounds great,” I finally answered. My eyes flicked to the window Charlie sat behind, but it was too tinted to see her through it. She was there, she was close, yet she was invisible. She was untouchable.
She was no different behind the barrier of that car door than she was to me in real life, and I needed to remember that.
With that realization, I tore my gaze away and followed her father into his study.
March 11, 2018
“The ring on her finger was a symbol of her commitment to another man.
That alone should have sobered me.
That alone should have been at the forefront of my mind, but it wasn’t.
Charlie Reid was married, she was Charlie Pierce now, and still, it didn’t matter.
I loved her, anyway.”
Wild. Chaotic. Turbulent. Heart wrenching. That’s what this book is. I’m breathless after finishing. And I’m saying this right now, What He Doesn’t Know is hands down one of the best and most intense reads I’ve ever read. I am BLOWN AWAY by the ride I went on! As a fan of Kandi’s previous books, I can tell you that this is undoubtedly her BEST BOOK TO DATE—best writing, best plotting, best every. single. damn. thing. I went into it knowing my heart was going to bleed, knowing I would be left raw, teetering at the edge of a cliff and needless to say, both those things happened in spades. Now, I feel so fucked up, so destroyed and consumed and giddy and elated. I didn’t even sleep last night. I obsessed over every detail. This story was an adrenaline rush, a gut punch that began with a powerful prologue and ended with a jaw-dropping cliffhanger! And I knew, God did I know, that this was going to HURT SO FUCKING GOOD. And it damn well delivered.
Steiner holds nothing back when it comes to angst! From the moment we meet Charlie and Cameron (our married couple) to the second Reese reappears in Charlie’s life you feel the tension start to kindle. Charlie (our heroine) holds secrets in her lifeless eyes that compels the reader to pay attention. You feel pulled toward the messy drama, knowing Cam and Charlie’s relationship is broken yet at one time it wasn’t. At one point this married couple was blissfully happy and full of life and possibility. Then you meet Reese and see that he and Charlie go way back, all the way to childhood. There’s a bond there that’s already been cultivated by time and memories. As the chapters progress and the story unfolds, you be come tethered to the what’s happening. I swear, it’s addictive. I couldn’t read fast enough. I almost wanted to look ahead to see what would happen next I was so buzzed over this trio of characters. I lived for the feels, was entrenched by them.
And holy books, are those emotions POWERFUL. CHAOTIC. One minute I raged, the next I cried, and then I felt guilty for getting angry and upset. It’s emotionally complex. Understanding the breakdown of Cam and Charlie’s relationship leaves you devastated and conflicted. Charlie is a lovable character who breaks your heart. She’s been frozen out by her husband and the moments of rejection are a palpable, living thing—something I think every woman can relate to.
This story is juicy, told from different pov’s. It’s got endless twists and turns you’ll NEVER SEE COMING, moments that’ll leave your jaw hanging open. This is a tale of sticky boundaries and blurred lines. A story of broken hearts and mistakes. A book of black and white and grey areas in life. If you are a person who loathes when people cheat in novels, this isn’t your book. LINES ARE CROSSED! It’s wicked, messy, heartbreaking. People aren’t perfect. They do things that might not seem right to you but feel right to them. Most times the road to happiness is paved with stones from hell. I believe that. Always have.
Overall, the first part of this duet slayed me. I am overwhelmed with emotion for it. I feel like this review is long-winded, scattered, and intentionally vague but I really don’t want to tell you major details. I went into it this untainted by opinion and I came out of it absolutely spellbound and desperate for more! It is without a doubt a top recommendation. My most FAV read of the year (right next to The Smallest Part). And I really hope you take a chance on this masterpiece. It’s truly unforgettable.
"They say there are two sides to every story, and it was in that moment, in that dark, desperate snapshot of my life that I realized I hadn’t asked him for his.>"
** Thanks to the author for the ARC I received in exchange for an honest review.
That alone should have sobered me.
That alone should have been at the forefront of my mind, but it wasn’t.
Charlie Reid was married, she was Charlie Pierce now, and still, it didn’t matter.
I loved her, anyway.”
Wild. Chaotic. Turbulent. Heart wrenching. That’s what this book is. I’m breathless after finishing. And I’m saying this right now, What He Doesn’t Know is hands down one of the best and most intense reads I’ve ever read. I am BLOWN AWAY by the ride I went on! As a fan of Kandi’s previous books, I can tell you that this is undoubtedly her BEST BOOK TO DATE—best writing, best plotting, best every. single. damn. thing. I went into it knowing my heart was going to bleed, knowing I would be left raw, teetering at the edge of a cliff and needless to say, both those things happened in spades. Now, I feel so fucked up, so destroyed and consumed and giddy and elated. I didn’t even sleep last night. I obsessed over every detail. This story was an adrenaline rush, a gut punch that began with a powerful prologue and ended with a jaw-dropping cliffhanger! And I knew, God did I know, that this was going to HURT SO FUCKING GOOD. And it damn well delivered.
Steiner holds nothing back when it comes to angst! From the moment we meet Charlie and Cameron (our married couple) to the second Reese reappears in Charlie’s life you feel the tension start to kindle. Charlie (our heroine) holds secrets in her lifeless eyes that compels the reader to pay attention. You feel pulled toward the messy drama, knowing Cam and Charlie’s relationship is broken yet at one time it wasn’t. At one point this married couple was blissfully happy and full of life and possibility. Then you meet Reese and see that he and Charlie go way back, all the way to childhood. There’s a bond there that’s already been cultivated by time and memories. As the chapters progress and the story unfolds, you be come tethered to the what’s happening. I swear, it’s addictive. I couldn’t read fast enough. I almost wanted to look ahead to see what would happen next I was so buzzed over this trio of characters. I lived for the feels, was entrenched by them.
And holy books, are those emotions POWERFUL. CHAOTIC. One minute I raged, the next I cried, and then I felt guilty for getting angry and upset. It’s emotionally complex. Understanding the breakdown of Cam and Charlie’s relationship leaves you devastated and conflicted. Charlie is a lovable character who breaks your heart. She’s been frozen out by her husband and the moments of rejection are a palpable, living thing—something I think every woman can relate to.
This story is juicy, told from different pov’s. It’s got endless twists and turns you’ll NEVER SEE COMING, moments that’ll leave your jaw hanging open. This is a tale of sticky boundaries and blurred lines. A story of broken hearts and mistakes. A book of black and white and grey areas in life. If you are a person who loathes when people cheat in novels, this isn’t your book. LINES ARE CROSSED! It’s wicked, messy, heartbreaking. People aren’t perfect. They do things that might not seem right to you but feel right to them. Most times the road to happiness is paved with stones from hell. I believe that. Always have.
Overall, the first part of this duet slayed me. I am overwhelmed with emotion for it. I feel like this review is long-winded, scattered, and intentionally vague but I really don’t want to tell you major details. I went into it this untainted by opinion and I came out of it absolutely spellbound and desperate for more! It is without a doubt a top recommendation. My most FAV read of the year (right next to The Smallest Part). And I really hope you take a chance on this masterpiece. It’s truly unforgettable.
"They say there are two sides to every story, and it was in that moment, in that dark, desperate snapshot of my life that I realized I hadn’t asked him for his.>"
** Thanks to the author for the ARC I received in exchange for an honest review.
April 4, 2018
***3.5 STARS***
I'm a wee bit conflicted on my rating here. On one hand, the book brought out many emotions for me. On the other hand, the heroine, Charlie was weak. I can't stand weak heroines. I need my girls to have a sense of self worth and not let people walk all over them.
Charlie is married to Cameron - love the name BTW - and they have one very serious topic hanging over their marriage from 5 years ago and the never talked about it. I'm sorry, I couldn't grasp that. For 5 fucking years no one talks about the loss they suffered. Get the fuck out of here! How does that even happen. . . Charlie. She didn't force the issue. She ignored it. Shit, Cameron did too.
The main reason I couldn't give this book 4 or 5 STARS is because she was weak.
Full disclosure - 8/10 of this authors female characters are weak minded women IMO. I am very selective when it comes to her books for that reason.
I'll post my complete review on book 2.
I'm a wee bit conflicted on my rating here. On one hand, the book brought out many emotions for me. On the other hand, the heroine, Charlie was weak. I can't stand weak heroines. I need my girls to have a sense of self worth and not let people walk all over them.
Charlie is married to Cameron - love the name BTW - and they have one very serious topic hanging over their marriage from 5 years ago and the never talked about it. I'm sorry, I couldn't grasp that. For 5 fucking years no one talks about the loss they suffered. Get the fuck out of here! How does that even happen. . . Charlie. She didn't force the issue. She ignored it. Shit, Cameron did too.
The main reason I couldn't give this book 4 or 5 STARS is because she was weak.
Full disclosure - 8/10 of this authors female characters are weak minded women IMO. I am very selective when it comes to her books for that reason.
I'll post my complete review on book 2.
April 2, 2018
4 stars!
Many of you who follow my reviews should know by now my reading tastes fall under ANGST. Anything angst, I gobble it up!
So when Kandi Steiner, an amazing author known for ANGST, releases a duet that revolves around a love triangle, you bet your ass I was ALL OVER THAT SHIT.
I bought the book right away, there was only one problem: the second book wasn't out yet. So, I sat on my ass and waited to start the first book until the second one was out. And I made it... almost. I made sure to preorder the second book so it would hit my kindle at 9pm (thank you PST) and I wouldn't have to wait.
Well now it's 11:30 pm, I have work tomorrow and I am DYING to start the second book! Clearly I didn't think this through.
What He Doesn't Know is about Charlie, a woman in a broken marriage who has lost herself. When a childhood friend and love Reese, returns to town and begins teaching at the same school she does, feelings are bound to blossom. But Charlie is torn, because despite everything, she loves her husband. But Reese may be the only one to turn Charlie back into the woman she was.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, Kandi Steiner is an author I am always meaning to read more of. This book hit the spot perfectly in terms of reading mood and angst. I have my favorite guy, but I don't want to say anything because I am worried he will not be picked. I desperately want to peek at the end of book 2 but also don't want to cheat, so we will see how long I'll last, shall we?
Anyways, both books are out now, so if you are intrigued go ahead and one click. There's nothing to be scared of as they are both available and no waiting!
Follow me on ♥ Facebook ♥ Blog ♥ Instagram ♥ Twitter ♥
Many of you who follow my reviews should know by now my reading tastes fall under ANGST. Anything angst, I gobble it up!
So when Kandi Steiner, an amazing author known for ANGST, releases a duet that revolves around a love triangle, you bet your ass I was ALL OVER THAT SHIT.
I bought the book right away, there was only one problem: the second book wasn't out yet. So, I sat on my ass and waited to start the first book until the second one was out. And I made it... almost. I made sure to preorder the second book so it would hit my kindle at 9pm (thank you PST) and I wouldn't have to wait.
Well now it's 11:30 pm, I have work tomorrow and I am DYING to start the second book! Clearly I didn't think this through.
What He Doesn't Know is about Charlie, a woman in a broken marriage who has lost herself. When a childhood friend and love Reese, returns to town and begins teaching at the same school she does, feelings are bound to blossom. But Charlie is torn, because despite everything, she loves her husband. But Reese may be the only one to turn Charlie back into the woman she was.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, Kandi Steiner is an author I am always meaning to read more of. This book hit the spot perfectly in terms of reading mood and angst. I have my favorite guy, but I don't want to say anything because I am worried he will not be picked. I desperately want to peek at the end of book 2 but also don't want to cheat, so we will see how long I'll last, shall we?
Anyways, both books are out now, so if you are intrigued go ahead and one click. There's nothing to be scared of as they are both available and no waiting!
Follow me on ♥ Facebook ♥ Blog ♥ Instagram ♥ Twitter ♥
March 14, 2018
*4.5 stars*
This is how a love triangle is done!
This is a difficult book for me to review since I don’t want to give anything away, but just know that I loved it! I couldn’t stop reading even when it made me cry and broke my heart. This is an emotional story about relationships; the good, the bad and the ugly. I love angsty books and this one is a prime example of angst done right. You need an open mind to read a story like this cause it’s not your typical romance, but I promise you its worth it!
I can’t wait for What He Always Knew. I hate cliffhangers but this book was so good I can look past that. March 29th can’t come soon enough!
PS: There is cheating in this book. I know that’s a major trigger for some, so just wanted to warn you.
This is how a love triangle is done!
This is a difficult book for me to review since I don’t want to give anything away, but just know that I loved it! I couldn’t stop reading even when it made me cry and broke my heart. This is an emotional story about relationships; the good, the bad and the ugly. I love angsty books and this one is a prime example of angst done right. You need an open mind to read a story like this cause it’s not your typical romance, but I promise you its worth it!
I can’t wait for What He Always Knew. I hate cliffhangers but this book was so good I can look past that. March 29th can’t come soon enough!
PS: There is cheating in this book. I know that’s a major trigger for some, so just wanted to warn you.
March 21, 2018
“The ring on her finger was a symbol of her commitment to another man. That alone, should have sobered me. That alone, should have been at the forefront of my mind, but it wasn’t. Charlie Reid was married, she was Charlie Pierce now, and still, it didn’t matter. I loved her, anyway”.
Every time I read about a love triangle, I get EXTREMELY nervous as I should. You know someone is going to get hurt, you know that you’re not only risking your current relationship, but your heart as well. And yet, you do it anyway. Love triangles are messy, complicated, forbidden, and scandalous but you know what they say…the heart wants what it wants.
Told from dual POV'S between a woman and a childhood friend who returns home, “What He Doesn’t Know takes you into the heart of a crumbling marriage, loss, and rekindling a friendship that was always filled with a timeless love. Charlie Pierce has been trying to hold her marriage together for the past five years and lately, it’s becoming a little too much for her. The one bright spot in her life, is being a kindergarten teacher and having the ability to help and nurture these young kids. If there’s anything that Charlie would want her legacy to be about, is that she made a difference in her students lives and her passion never went unnoticed.
When she’s introduced to the new piano teacher, having that one bright spot throughout the day suddenly intensifies. Not only is Reed a familiar person to her, but he was one of her best childhood friends. They say time heals all wounds and true love never dies, but for Reed and Charlie, love will not be their problem this time. Time will..
I will say that I was warned before I even started this book that it was going to be emotional and messy and I was prepared for that. I loved that this author took her time in telling us the story and really going in depth into the shattering marriage of a couple who went through a lot. It’s not often that I get to read something like this and it was refreshing for me to see that. Did I have some issues with how the storyline played out? You bet I did! I needed more angst and I wanted Charlie to speak up more in saying what she wanted instead of being agreeable but that’s just me.
Now can we please talk about that ending?! I'm pretty good at guessing the outcome of most of the stories I read and I have to say… I did NOT see this one coming at all!! I was under the impression I received a typo in my copy because what I read? Was a cause to run out and get a warranty on all of my devices. Fuck my life!! I’m anxious to see what’s going to happen in “What He Always Knew” because I know it’s going to be soooo good!
*Teaser used is from the author's fb page.
March 18, 2018
3.5 Stars
March 14, 2018
LIVE AMAZON : https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BG97C32/...
5 STARS
Such a beautiful story,I read it and I'm still thinking about it!I devoured it in one sitting and now I'm anxious waiting for the next book!My heart aching and I'm emotional!What He Doesn't Know is one of these stories that you need to go blind this way you are going to devour it!
I don't want to give anything away you just need to know that this story was something else!You are going to read it and think about it for days!Kandi's writing was flawless and her story amazing!I'm impressed, I have read some other books by her but this one is my favorite so far!!
I don't usually like love triangles but this one was so perfect and the way Kandi Steiner handled everything was perfect that you don't mind.Get ready for Charlie, Cameron and Reece to take you to an emotional roller coaster!I can't wait for the next book!!
5 STARS
Such a beautiful story,I read it and I'm still thinking about it!I devoured it in one sitting and now I'm anxious waiting for the next book!My heart aching and I'm emotional!What He Doesn't Know is one of these stories that you need to go blind this way you are going to devour it!
I don't want to give anything away you just need to know that this story was something else!You are going to read it and think about it for days!Kandi's writing was flawless and her story amazing!I'm impressed, I have read some other books by her but this one is my favorite so far!!
I don't usually like love triangles but this one was so perfect and the way Kandi Steiner handled everything was perfect that you don't mind.Get ready for Charlie, Cameron and Reece to take you to an emotional roller coaster!I can't wait for the next book!!
March 16, 2018
“They say there are two sides to every story, and I suppose in most cases that’s true. But the one I lived inside of? It had three.”
Wow! I absolutely loved What He Doesn’t Know from start to finish, that Prologue literally gutted me; I mean I hadn’t even really gotten into the nitty gritty of the story and it had already moved me so much. I knew from that moment I was going to feel all the emotions that this book would draw out of me, right down to my very core. There is a reason why I rate Kandi Steiner so highly as a writer and that is because her stories always own me from the very start. She has such a beautiful way of telling a story. She articulates words so perfectly that you live every part of the story that is being depicted. This story was so full of emotion that I was bursting at the seams; it was heartbreaking, it was angsty and it was a wild and turbulent ride that made my heart race and left me breathless by the end.
Charlie is living in utter despair; in complete turmoil within the four walls of a house she once called a home. Once upon a time it was a home filled with love, laughter and happiness, a distant memory now unfortunately. Charlie is living in a loveless and lifeless marriage to a man, Cameron, who used to regard her with such kind and loving eyes, but now the only eyes she knows are cold. Things are about to get so much more complicated for Charlie when she discovers her childhood sweetheart, Reese, the first person who had ever owned her heart has returned to the town of Mount Lebanon, Pennsylvania.
Reese has just moved back to Mount Lebanon, Pennsylvania after having moved away fourteen years before. Reese and Charlie go way back and were not only next door neighbours, but were completely enamoured with each other, inseparable and in love. Now that Reese is back he plans to claim Charlie as his own once and for all. Charlie is married right? What marriage?
“One thing I knew for sure, I wasn’t going down without a fight. If I truly lost her, if he was to have her, he’d have to beat me in a fair fight.”
Reese, Cameron and Charlie’s journey pushed me to my angsty limit, had me sobbing like an uncontrollable mess and literally broke my heart, but I loved every minute of it. To me, these are the best kind of books, I love nothing more than to feel a whole range of emotions and be taken out of my comfort zone, it just adds to the anticipation and thrilling ride I am encountering. Knowing prior to reading, this was in fact a duet, I was going to have to deal with a heart-wrenching cliffhanger and boy was I right. I can’t tell you enough how desperate I am for book 2 What He Always Knew.
I can’t express how much this story broke me, the pain I was feeling was like my own personal crack, I was addicted and I wanted more, so much more. I have to mention if you are not a fan of love triangles or cheating, then you will probably not love this book, but seriously, it is so good it is well worth taking a risk on it. I wait with baited breath for book 2, because I need it……. like now! I would highly recommend this story for all lovers of emotional, raw and angsty love stories that leave you positively breathless by the end.
“I learned the people we love usually turned out to be one of three things:
a home,
a holiday,
or hell.”
-Beau Taplin
March 16, 2018
3.5 Stars
June 28, 2022
fuck this book. fuck this book for being good, fuck this book for making me cry and fuck this book for being the best book i’ve read all year.
March 15, 2018
This book had my heart literally racing. I absolutely, unquestionably, wholeheartedly loved it! It isn’t just that the story sucks you in, it’s the characters. The writing is great, the flow is just perfect and the twist and turns are everything I need to keep from getting bored. I enjoyed the realness of this story because the feelings that the three parties transpired seemed real to me. This is a fabulous book about a husband and wife and their relationship. It is a mix of love, sorrow, lust, deceit, heartbreak and my poor mind cannot take it anymore! It's not lighthearted reading, it will actually make you think. And feel!! There are some really sexy scenes, but what really stands out in this book is the story itself and emotions again beautifully described by the author’s amazing writing style.
I don't want to say too much as it would be spoiled. I highly recommend it to everyone who isn't afraid of emotional, realistic, sexy books. I didn't want it to end. Can't wait for the conclusion!
In short:
Hero 5/5 | Heroine 5/5 | Plot (Point, Originality) 5/5 | Writing Style 5/5 | Steam 3/5 | Romance 4/5 | Angst-Suspense 5/5 | Darkness 0/5 | Humor 0/5 | Secondary Characters 4/5 | Drama-Conflict 5/5 | Mystery 0/5 | Twists 4/5 | Pace Steady | Action 2/5
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
I don't want to say too much as it would be spoiled. I highly recommend it to everyone who isn't afraid of emotional, realistic, sexy books. I didn't want it to end. Can't wait for the conclusion!
In short:
Hero 5/5 | Heroine 5/5 | Plot (Point, Originality) 5/5 | Writing Style 5/5 | Steam 3/5 | Romance 4/5 | Angst-Suspense 5/5 | Darkness 0/5 | Humor 0/5 | Secondary Characters 4/5 | Drama-Conflict 5/5 | Mystery 0/5 | Twists 4/5 | Pace Steady | Action 2/5
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 18, 2018
I'm only seeing high reviews for this book so far, so I guess it's just a me thing.
This book tried really hard to be all angsty and emotional (and it looks like it did the job for most people), but it just didn't do it for me. The story did draw me in a little at first, but I couldn't get past the detachment I felt to the characters.
As to how the story progressed, there was a tiny bit of suspense that kept me turning the pages (and allowed me to get past some super boring chapters), but where it led ended up being unimpressive.
This book didn't have an ending and the cliffhanger had zero effect on me. I seriously couldn't care less about what happens next
Sorta spoiler? not really though, I think the blurb makes it obvious.
This book tried really hard to be all angsty and emotional (and it looks like it did the job for most people), but it just didn't do it for me. The story did draw me in a little at first, but I couldn't get past the detachment I felt to the characters.
As to how the story progressed, there was a tiny bit of suspense that kept me turning the pages (and allowed me to get past some super boring chapters), but where it led ended up being unimpressive.
This book didn't have an ending and the cliffhanger had zero effect on me. I seriously couldn't care less about what happens next
Sorta spoiler? not really though, I think the blurb makes it obvious.
Want to read
March 10, 2018There is a very painful love triangle in this book.
Here is an excerpt from the book that Ms Steiner shares with us:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Here is an excerpt from the book that Ms Steiner shares with us:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
March 24, 2018
4-4.5 ★'s
“If I am a river, you are the ocean. It all comes back to you in the end.”
Kandi Steiner has become one of my favorite authors due to my favorite subject matter, angst, duh. She had me at A Love Letter to Whiskey and while this one is up there, I have to hold back until I read the last book in this duet.
But let me just tell you, this one is super angsty and little gems were popping up all over the place...some taking me totally by surprise! I loved that...it definitely kept my interest.
So...about the story, Charlie and Cameron have been together for about eight years although the last five years have gone downhill. It's a heart breaking story and you can't help but feel for them. They haven't dealt with things and it's affected their marriage.
Reese is an old family friend and he and Charlie had a crush on each other when they were younger but since he is five years older, he couldn't go there. Now, he's back and he knows what he wants but she's married.
Life doesn't care and throws them together fairly often. Reese tries to be a good guy but he's only human. For those of you who are wondering if there is cheating...
Here's the twist...Cameron is a good guy and I. Feel. Bad. For. Him. There I said it. Luckily, we do get a chapter with his POV and you feel his pain. He hasn't always been there for Charlie but he has a plan.
Of course he does, just when things are working out. *SMDH* The ending leaves you reeling because another "gem" comes out...ugh! Makes it hard to know who to pull for. THANKFULLY, the second book, What He Always Knew, is coming out March 29th. I'm ~almost~ scared to read it! ;)
“If I am a river, you are the ocean. It all comes back to you in the end.”
Kandi Steiner has become one of my favorite authors due to my favorite subject matter, angst, duh. She had me at A Love Letter to Whiskey and while this one is up there, I have to hold back until I read the last book in this duet.
But let me just tell you, this one is super angsty and little gems were popping up all over the place...some taking me totally by surprise! I loved that...it definitely kept my interest.
So...about the story, Charlie and Cameron have been together for about eight years although the last five years have gone downhill. It's a heart breaking story and you can't help but feel for them. They haven't dealt with things and it's affected their marriage.
Reese is an old family friend and he and Charlie had a crush on each other when they were younger but since he is five years older, he couldn't go there. Now, he's back and he knows what he wants but she's married.
Life doesn't care and throws them together fairly often. Reese tries to be a good guy but he's only human. For those of you who are wondering if there is cheating...
Here's the twist...Cameron is a good guy and I. Feel. Bad. For. Him. There I said it. Luckily, we do get a chapter with his POV and you feel his pain. He hasn't always been there for Charlie but he has a plan.
Of course he does, just when things are working out. *SMDH* The ending leaves you reeling because another "gem" comes out...ugh! Makes it hard to know who to pull for. THANKFULLY, the second book, What He Always Knew, is coming out March 29th. I'm ~almost~ scared to read it! ;)
March 14, 2018
Holy moly, I am so freaking twisted up after reading this book.
I know a lot of romance readers hate love triangles but this book is the PERFECT demonstration of precisely why I love them so much. I love anything that makes me FEEL THINGS while I read, anything that rips at my heartstrings, that creates a tug of war in my mind and, love them or hate them, that's what a good love triangle guarantees. Kandi Steiner creates a wholly immersive, heartbreaking scenario with What He Doesn't Know and the reader can't help but be swept away in Charlie's battle between two men who both hold keys to her heart. I'll say it again, I love a good love triangle. But more, I love EXACTLY what Steiner crafts here in this angsty, complicated, heart wrenching storyline. What He Doesn't Know delivers the ULTIMATE twisty dynamic, a web of lust and pain where I truly did not know what to hope for, what I wanted to come of this love triangle, what path I hope Charlie will take.
Cameron--What can I say, I'm like a moth to a flame for a man who keeps the heroine at arms length, who hurts her without reason but who has potential to redeem himself. I longed to understand what was happening in his mind, why he grew so distant. And I think the romantic in me that craves seeing a stoic, removed man brought to his knees is what kept me silently rooting for him to fight for what was his.
But Reese--the forbidden fruit from Charlie's youth who's just come home and brought her life full circle. Well, I couldn't help but root for him in this situation too. He is devoted and charming and sweet and he's everything I should want for Charlie. He's everything I wouldn't blame Charlie for wanting for herself. He's everything good and warm and fulfilling for a woman who's been emotionally neglected and he's exactly why I was fully connected to the torturous tug-of-war going on in Charlie's heart.
My heart feels battered and bruised after reading this book. This brutality, this frustration, this unbelievably heart wrenching turmoil demands that the reader feel just as torn as our girl. It's so painful to read this story but I was ADDICTED. Addicted to the heartache. Addicted to the war. Addicted to both of these men and completely consumed by them both. What Steiner crafts here KILLED ME but it hurts so damn good. I could not get enough. I couldn't get enough of these men and the starkly different ways they love. I REALLY couldn't get enough of Kandi Steiner's lush writing style. I was as lost in this storyline as I was in her stunning words. I've only read a small handful of books from this author but this one takes the cake. This is a beauty, a torn and tattered beauty of a romance and knowing that it's only the beginning is so deliciously thrilling for me. I know there's more angst to come, more heartache, more push and pull. And as much as I know it'll hurt, there's nothing I crave more in a good love story than that deliciously brutal pain. I need more now. I'm terrified and excited and completely intoxicated by this story. I can't wait for what's to come.
I know a lot of romance readers hate love triangles but this book is the PERFECT demonstration of precisely why I love them so much. I love anything that makes me FEEL THINGS while I read, anything that rips at my heartstrings, that creates a tug of war in my mind and, love them or hate them, that's what a good love triangle guarantees. Kandi Steiner creates a wholly immersive, heartbreaking scenario with What He Doesn't Know and the reader can't help but be swept away in Charlie's battle between two men who both hold keys to her heart. I'll say it again, I love a good love triangle. But more, I love EXACTLY what Steiner crafts here in this angsty, complicated, heart wrenching storyline. What He Doesn't Know delivers the ULTIMATE twisty dynamic, a web of lust and pain where I truly did not know what to hope for, what I wanted to come of this love triangle, what path I hope Charlie will take.
Cameron--What can I say, I'm like a moth to a flame for a man who keeps the heroine at arms length, who hurts her without reason but who has potential to redeem himself. I longed to understand what was happening in his mind, why he grew so distant. And I think the romantic in me that craves seeing a stoic, removed man brought to his knees is what kept me silently rooting for him to fight for what was his.
But Reese--the forbidden fruit from Charlie's youth who's just come home and brought her life full circle. Well, I couldn't help but root for him in this situation too. He is devoted and charming and sweet and he's everything I should want for Charlie. He's everything I wouldn't blame Charlie for wanting for herself. He's everything good and warm and fulfilling for a woman who's been emotionally neglected and he's exactly why I was fully connected to the torturous tug-of-war going on in Charlie's heart.
My heart feels battered and bruised after reading this book. This brutality, this frustration, this unbelievably heart wrenching turmoil demands that the reader feel just as torn as our girl. It's so painful to read this story but I was ADDICTED. Addicted to the heartache. Addicted to the war. Addicted to both of these men and completely consumed by them both. What Steiner crafts here KILLED ME but it hurts so damn good. I could not get enough. I couldn't get enough of these men and the starkly different ways they love. I REALLY couldn't get enough of Kandi Steiner's lush writing style. I was as lost in this storyline as I was in her stunning words. I've only read a small handful of books from this author but this one takes the cake. This is a beauty, a torn and tattered beauty of a romance and knowing that it's only the beginning is so deliciously thrilling for me. I know there's more angst to come, more heartache, more push and pull. And as much as I know it'll hurt, there's nothing I crave more in a good love story than that deliciously brutal pain. I need more now. I'm terrified and excited and completely intoxicated by this story. I can't wait for what's to come.
April 18, 2018
This book was interesting. It is obviously not for people who have a cheating trigger. I will say that it kept me on my toes because I honestly didn’t have any idea who she was going to choose. However, I will say that there was extra drama added that I didnt think was needed (aka Blake surprise). Overall, I would give it 4 stars.
March 29, 2019
OMG...What the actual fuck did I just read?! I’m at a loss for words. My heart is beating fast and I NEED THE NEXT BOOK!!
”If I am a river, you are the ocean. It all comes back to you in the end.”
Okay, let’s reflect for a moment on how freaking AMAZING Kandi can weave a story together and make you feel all those emotions in such a short amount of time. This is a hard book to review because I feel like anything and everything I mention would be a spoiler. You know the gist—a love triangle. If you don’t like those and if cheating isn’t your thing, then normally I’d say to skip this and find another book, but I think you should just trust. Trust the author and her ability to tell you a compelling story that literally grabs you by the balls. From the very first page too. It holds a tight reign until the very last word on the last page; leaving you breathless and your heart in shattered pieces.
Back to the love triangle. Charlie is a married gal and... that’s all I can say. If I write and say too much it’ll ruin everything. Love triangles always make me feel stabby because there is obviously always a more suitable choice—and the one most obvious. Right? Well, not in this book. I have no earthly idea who Charlie will end up being with. I know I have MY personal choice but both candidates have their pros and cons. I think I’m gonna be heartbroken either way.
“But if I was a river, and he was the ocean, then Cameron was the storm that raged over the point where we met. And lightning was about to strike.”
If you’ve read Ms. Steiner’s books before, then you know how angsty she writes her stories. This one is no different. I felt it all—the pain and anguish, the love, and ultimately the bittersweet heartbreak. I can’t tell you how happy I am that the next book comes out on the 29th. I don’t have to wait THAT much longer. This book consumed me so much so, that not only did I lose sleep but I dreamed about the characters as well. If that isn’t a sign to read the book, I don’t know what is!
You want a story that will completely incinerate and wipe you out until there’s nothing left? Then this is for you. Cause I guarantee that you’ll be destroyed—and you’ll love every minute of it!
“They say there are two sides to every story, and I suppose in most cases, that’s true. But the one I lived inside of? It had three.”
**Thank you to the author for providing a copy for an honest and unbiased review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
”If I am a river, you are the ocean. It all comes back to you in the end.”
Okay, let’s reflect for a moment on how freaking AMAZING Kandi can weave a story together and make you feel all those emotions in such a short amount of time. This is a hard book to review because I feel like anything and everything I mention would be a spoiler. You know the gist—a love triangle. If you don’t like those and if cheating isn’t your thing, then normally I’d say to skip this and find another book, but I think you should just trust. Trust the author and her ability to tell you a compelling story that literally grabs you by the balls. From the very first page too. It holds a tight reign until the very last word on the last page; leaving you breathless and your heart in shattered pieces.
Back to the love triangle. Charlie is a married gal and... that’s all I can say. If I write and say too much it’ll ruin everything. Love triangles always make me feel stabby because there is obviously always a more suitable choice—and the one most obvious. Right? Well, not in this book. I have no earthly idea who Charlie will end up being with. I know I have MY personal choice but both candidates have their pros and cons. I think I’m gonna be heartbroken either way.
“But if I was a river, and he was the ocean, then Cameron was the storm that raged over the point where we met. And lightning was about to strike.”
If you’ve read Ms. Steiner’s books before, then you know how angsty she writes her stories. This one is no different. I felt it all—the pain and anguish, the love, and ultimately the bittersweet heartbreak. I can’t tell you how happy I am that the next book comes out on the 29th. I don’t have to wait THAT much longer. This book consumed me so much so, that not only did I lose sleep but I dreamed about the characters as well. If that isn’t a sign to read the book, I don’t know what is!
You want a story that will completely incinerate and wipe you out until there’s nothing left? Then this is for you. Cause I guarantee that you’ll be destroyed—and you’ll love every minute of it!
“They say there are two sides to every story, and I suppose in most cases, that’s true. But the one I lived inside of? It had three.”
**Thank you to the author for providing a copy for an honest and unbiased review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 1, 2018
FIVE LOVE ME INSTEAD STARS.
“I’ll wait. I’d wait forever for you.”
This book has just destroyed me in the worst way possible and I don’t regret a moment. Kandi Steiner (fast becoming a favourite) throws out the rule book with this beautifully written start to a duet and I have to admit I’m craving more. Steiner has landed herself as my ‘go to’ author for all things angst related since reading (and devouring) ‘A love letter to whiskey’ - another five star winner that should not be left on any shelf waiting to be read. This particular book should have had me tearing out my hair, frustrated with characters and throwing my kindle across the room, and whilst it may have provoked those feelings, the overriding feeling was that I simply wanted more. More of this authors talent, more time with these characters and more time in hope that I will get the ending that I’m craving. (Lucky for me this book is just the beginning and I have part two of this angst show to look forward to).
What’s it about about?
This beautifully portrayed book, is about life, longing and love. You only have to read the blurb to know you are stepping into a minefield of emotions and relationship hardships. I don’t want to give much away as I believe this book is to be experienced but you can prepare yourself to be wonderfully torn apart - much like the beloved protagonists.
What did I love?
I was swept up in this book - the writing, the setting, the heartache, the history of the characters lives - all of it accumulated into a fabulous tale, one that admittedly made my heart pound and break simultaneously. Kandi Steiner has really outdone herself writing this novel and I can only imagine that part two of the duet will be matching up to with its predecessor. From start to finish I found myself transfixed, desperate to find some resolution and answers for the characters and I wouldn’t have had it any other way. Kandi Steiner is a queen of angst and turmoil and I’m happily sitting under her rule.
Final thoughts ...
The theme of this duet is not one that I would normally buy into, full out happily ever afters and sugar coated romance is normally my ‘go to’. However, when it comes to Kandi Steiner I have a trust in her work that makes it easy for me to jump into her books with no reservations. ‘What he doesn’t know’ is a piece of writing that is so beautifully written and lovingly thought out that I’d hate for any of my fellow romance addicts to miss out on. And to the author, thank you for giving your heart and soul into this obvious labour of love - it shows. Enjoy readers, kisses.
“I’ll wait. I’d wait forever for you.”
This book has just destroyed me in the worst way possible and I don’t regret a moment. Kandi Steiner (fast becoming a favourite) throws out the rule book with this beautifully written start to a duet and I have to admit I’m craving more. Steiner has landed herself as my ‘go to’ author for all things angst related since reading (and devouring) ‘A love letter to whiskey’ - another five star winner that should not be left on any shelf waiting to be read. This particular book should have had me tearing out my hair, frustrated with characters and throwing my kindle across the room, and whilst it may have provoked those feelings, the overriding feeling was that I simply wanted more. More of this authors talent, more time with these characters and more time in hope that I will get the ending that I’m craving. (Lucky for me this book is just the beginning and I have part two of this angst show to look forward to).
What’s it about about?
This beautifully portrayed book, is about life, longing and love. You only have to read the blurb to know you are stepping into a minefield of emotions and relationship hardships. I don’t want to give much away as I believe this book is to be experienced but you can prepare yourself to be wonderfully torn apart - much like the beloved protagonists.
What did I love?
I was swept up in this book - the writing, the setting, the heartache, the history of the characters lives - all of it accumulated into a fabulous tale, one that admittedly made my heart pound and break simultaneously. Kandi Steiner has really outdone herself writing this novel and I can only imagine that part two of the duet will be matching up to with its predecessor. From start to finish I found myself transfixed, desperate to find some resolution and answers for the characters and I wouldn’t have had it any other way. Kandi Steiner is a queen of angst and turmoil and I’m happily sitting under her rule.
Final thoughts ...
The theme of this duet is not one that I would normally buy into, full out happily ever afters and sugar coated romance is normally my ‘go to’. However, when it comes to Kandi Steiner I have a trust in her work that makes it easy for me to jump into her books with no reservations. ‘What he doesn’t know’ is a piece of writing that is so beautifully written and lovingly thought out that I’d hate for any of my fellow romance addicts to miss out on. And to the author, thank you for giving your heart and soul into this obvious labour of love - it shows. Enjoy readers, kisses.
February 3, 2024
the angst is delicious
March 21, 2018
5 Amazing Stars!
I'm speechless.
It's no secret that this book tackles infidelity BUT what sets this book apart is that this is the only one that writes not one, not two but three POVs
It's how every book with this trope should've written because I've waited for like forever to read something like this.
And for that Ms. Steiner, I love you. You did a very good job. A wish come true for me.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The story was well written. We get to know about Charlie and Reese, their teen days, their friendship and their young love. He left her for college and never try to reach out to her until he met her again.
Cameron's past remains a mystery. A man of few words. Instead of talking, he shows it through his actions. But then again, he's not perfect either.
A story about love, loss, pain, finding love again and everything else that's written in an engaging manner that had me hooked from start to finish.
Near the end, when things starts to unfold and the author reveals something that I totally didn't expect?
And when someone did something that I didn't expect either...
Overall, I'd say that if reading about cheating doesn't bother you much, then by all means, read this.
You won't regret it.
This book comes in a duet and ends in a cliffhanger that'll have you begging for more.
Unfortunate for me, I'll be in a book slump. Especially after reading this.
I can't wait to read the next book.
BTW, I'm Team
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Pre-release
I. Can't. Wait.
I'm speechless.
It's no secret that this book tackles infidelity BUT what sets this book apart is that this is the only one that writes not one, not two but three POVs
It's how every book with this trope should've written because I've waited for like forever to read something like this.
And for that Ms. Steiner, I love you. You did a very good job. A wish come true for me.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The story was well written. We get to know about Charlie and Reese, their teen days, their friendship and their young love. He left her for college and never try to reach out to her until he met her again.
Cameron's past remains a mystery. A man of few words. Instead of talking, he shows it through his actions. But then again, he's not perfect either.
A story about love, loss, pain, finding love again and everything else that's written in an engaging manner that had me hooked from start to finish.
Near the end, when things starts to unfold and the author reveals something that I totally didn't expect?
And when someone did something that I didn't expect either...
Overall, I'd say that if reading about cheating doesn't bother you much, then by all means, read this.
You won't regret it.
This book comes in a duet and ends in a cliffhanger that'll have you begging for more.
Unfortunate for me, I'll be in a book slump. Especially after reading this.
I can't wait to read the next book.
BTW, I'm Team
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Pre-release
I. Can't. Wait.
August 19, 2019
SPOILER ALERT!!!
I was really liking this book but then 80 percent in ....
Here goes my rant: Charlie is a heifer!!! I HATE, LOATHE love triangles. I avoid books with that particular trope if at all possible. But somehow I thought this would be different.
Reese - “Are you sure? Is this...am I what you want?”
Charlie- I squeezed his hands, never more sure of anything in my entire life. “Yes”
Later on, fast forward a few chapters....
Charlie - “There’s so much more to think about, Reese. Cameron...he’s my husband. This isn’t going to hurt him, it’s going to kill him. And then there’s our families, and the vows we made.” I paused, knowing just hearing the words alone were hurting Reese. “I just need some time, okay? I need a little time.”
Um, shouldn’t that have been her first thoughts before she cheated, 2 wrongs do not make a right.
And then, Cameron asks her for 2 months to try and win her back?!! Why would he even bother?? That’s how long it took her to throw away her 10yr relationship to him.
I’m not even bothering with the follow up to this duet. Because she’s going to be back and forth between both men. Nope, not for me. In my head here’s what happens: Charlie ends up alone. No Cameron, he finds someone new. No Reese, he ends up with Jennifer. (Yup, even she was more likable than Charlie). No birds. No one to fill her lonely nights. The end!! (Me?? Happy about this new rewrite.) lol.
I was really liking this book but then 80 percent in ....
Here goes my rant: Charlie is a heifer!!! I HATE, LOATHE love triangles. I avoid books with that particular trope if at all possible. But somehow I thought this would be different.
Reese - “Are you sure? Is this...am I what you want?”
Charlie- I squeezed his hands, never more sure of anything in my entire life. “Yes”
Later on, fast forward a few chapters....
Charlie - “There’s so much more to think about, Reese. Cameron...he’s my husband. This isn’t going to hurt him, it’s going to kill him. And then there’s our families, and the vows we made.” I paused, knowing just hearing the words alone were hurting Reese. “I just need some time, okay? I need a little time.”
Um, shouldn’t that have been her first thoughts before she cheated, 2 wrongs do not make a right.
And then, Cameron asks her for 2 months to try and win her back?!! Why would he even bother?? That’s how long it took her to throw away her 10yr relationship to him.
I’m not even bothering with the follow up to this duet. Because she’s going to be back and forth between both men. Nope, not for me. In my head here’s what happens: Charlie ends up alone. No Cameron, he finds someone new. No Reese, he ends up with Jennifer. (Yup, even she was more likable than Charlie). No birds. No one to fill her lonely nights. The end!! (Me?? Happy about this new rewrite.) lol.
June 10, 2020
NOW LIVE: AMAZON
Relationships are hard, they are such a beautiful wonderful thing, but sometimes there are ugly moments. There's disagreements and fights, there are hurt feelings, and sometimes, in the worst of times, there is no communication and there is no stability. Charlie Pierce and her husband Cameron are living in the worst of times, a tragedy leaving them floating through the motions of life, their companionship built on time, but no longer filled with trust or blooming with love and happiness. The words they share are out of habit and the time spent together is more like two ships passing in the night. Charlie wants to find that spark, she'd give anything to feel the same way with Cameron again, but it isn't happening and an old friend, and crush, is back in town. Reese is the boy next door, the boy she wanted all of her firsts with when she was just a young girl, but he's not the same anymore and neither is she. The sparks still fly between them though, sizzling stronger as Charlie's marriage fizzles under the pain of the past and the threat of another.
"She stayed with you. She'd stayed with me for years."
Wow, that's really all I have to say...at least without giving spoilers away. What He Doesn't Know is a journey; a beautiful, heart wrenching, and at times terrible journey. It's the story of a love-filled marriage fighting against the weight of life. It's the story of a love from the past, a love that doesn't ever truly go away, but maybe isn't meant to be forever either. It's a story of those two loves finding themselves meeting in the middle, a battle of trust and lust and time where someone will always find themselves on the outside, the loser in a game that hurts everyone in the end. What He Doesn't Know is my favorite sort of novel, that's right, a novel about cheating and the heartbreaking moments in a marriage are my favorite kind. They're real, they're honest, they're relatable for anyone from any walk of life. It's the nature of how life and love works, because the easy times wouldn't exist without the hard times. Kandi Steiner tells this complex, multi-faceted story like it could be her own, it's so filled with emotion and detail that I felt every moment and it was hard to separate myself from Charlie at times. I cried, a lot, I hoped for outcomes I wasn't sure could even happen, and I ached in my very core for each character as the lies and the secrets sucked them in further.
"You can open that pretty mouth of yours and tell me every lie you've told yourself but I'll never believe them. I see you, Charlie."
Basically, you have to read this book. The gorgeous, emotive covers are just a little sneak at the two men that stand to either side of Charlie. There's years of stories, of times spent together, of moments dancing in the bedroom to moments spent at the kitchen table, stories with both men that leave Charlie in a predicament she never thought she'd ever be in. Kandi Steiners words pulled emotions from me like I was right there in the middle with Charlie, Cameron and Reese, fighting for the love I wanted to desperately. There are twists, some huge ones I never ever saw coming, and a lot of realities to this book that make it so very heavy, but also worthwhile. It's a powerful book, the sort of novel that makes you understand another person's walk in life though you may have never walked a similar one yourself. I loved it, every single messy, painful, and beautiful moment of it and I can't wait for What He Always Knew. Do yourself a favor and ignore all your preconceived notions about the subject matter, read this duet.
ARC provided.
Relationships are hard, they are such a beautiful wonderful thing, but sometimes there are ugly moments. There's disagreements and fights, there are hurt feelings, and sometimes, in the worst of times, there is no communication and there is no stability. Charlie Pierce and her husband Cameron are living in the worst of times, a tragedy leaving them floating through the motions of life, their companionship built on time, but no longer filled with trust or blooming with love and happiness. The words they share are out of habit and the time spent together is more like two ships passing in the night. Charlie wants to find that spark, she'd give anything to feel the same way with Cameron again, but it isn't happening and an old friend, and crush, is back in town. Reese is the boy next door, the boy she wanted all of her firsts with when she was just a young girl, but he's not the same anymore and neither is she. The sparks still fly between them though, sizzling stronger as Charlie's marriage fizzles under the pain of the past and the threat of another.
"She stayed with you. She'd stayed with me for years."
Wow, that's really all I have to say...at least without giving spoilers away. What He Doesn't Know is a journey; a beautiful, heart wrenching, and at times terrible journey. It's the story of a love-filled marriage fighting against the weight of life. It's the story of a love from the past, a love that doesn't ever truly go away, but maybe isn't meant to be forever either. It's a story of those two loves finding themselves meeting in the middle, a battle of trust and lust and time where someone will always find themselves on the outside, the loser in a game that hurts everyone in the end. What He Doesn't Know is my favorite sort of novel, that's right, a novel about cheating and the heartbreaking moments in a marriage are my favorite kind. They're real, they're honest, they're relatable for anyone from any walk of life. It's the nature of how life and love works, because the easy times wouldn't exist without the hard times. Kandi Steiner tells this complex, multi-faceted story like it could be her own, it's so filled with emotion and detail that I felt every moment and it was hard to separate myself from Charlie at times. I cried, a lot, I hoped for outcomes I wasn't sure could even happen, and I ached in my very core for each character as the lies and the secrets sucked them in further.
"You can open that pretty mouth of yours and tell me every lie you've told yourself but I'll never believe them. I see you, Charlie."
Basically, you have to read this book. The gorgeous, emotive covers are just a little sneak at the two men that stand to either side of Charlie. There's years of stories, of times spent together, of moments dancing in the bedroom to moments spent at the kitchen table, stories with both men that leave Charlie in a predicament she never thought she'd ever be in. Kandi Steiners words pulled emotions from me like I was right there in the middle with Charlie, Cameron and Reese, fighting for the love I wanted to desperately. There are twists, some huge ones I never ever saw coming, and a lot of realities to this book that make it so very heavy, but also worthwhile. It's a powerful book, the sort of novel that makes you understand another person's walk in life though you may have never walked a similar one yourself. I loved it, every single messy, painful, and beautiful moment of it and I can't wait for What He Always Knew. Do yourself a favor and ignore all your preconceived notions about the subject matter, read this duet.
ARC provided.
March 25, 2018
Release Date: March 13, 2018
Genre: Contemporary Romance. Emotional.
Actual Rating: 4.5 stars
WWWHHHYYYYY!?!?!? Leaving us readers hanging like this is NOT OKAY. Sigh... I know I only have to wait a few days but this is absolutely KILLING ME. Important Note: This book is an emotional romance. It is the first book in the duet and ends in a cliffhanger. This book DOES contain cheating and a love triangle. For some people, this is a hard limit and that's okay. For me, they are not. They only tend to bother me when they are full of malice and utter disrespect (which I don't feel like this book had or was). So be aware of all of this prior to jumping in. Now, if you love an angsty romance, one that will rip open your heart, and HOPEFULLY put it back together again, then this is YOUR book. I'm glad I read it. I was touched, emotional, and basically had a roller coaster of feelings from it. I will be reading the next book the SECOND it comes out as well. You probably will too if you heed my warnings. EEEKKK!!!!!
I am not going to sit here and relay this book to everyone because you can read the synopsis for that. Also, I don't want to spoil it for potential readers. It's the type of book you need to read and feel on your own without outside influence. I will say that I did like it. Once I had a chance to sit down and zone out I got to read it in ONE sitting. It's a hard book to put down. There is so much going on, so much emotional turmoil wrapped into the pages, and a whole lot of angst that it's hard to look away from. As I mentioned above, there is a love triangle. While it's not the most comfortable thing to read about (who would ever want to be in their positions) it does show another side of humans that is prevalent every day. It also shows the flaws, and how easy it is to succumb to feelings that you have held close to for so long.
I very much recommend this book to those who can see past the forbidden aspects of the story. I think once it is all wrapped up we'll feel better about everything that is happening in these characters lives.
Genre: Contemporary Romance. Emotional.
Actual Rating: 4.5 stars
WWWHHHYYYYY!?!?!? Leaving us readers hanging like this is NOT OKAY. Sigh... I know I only have to wait a few days but this is absolutely KILLING ME. Important Note: This book is an emotional romance. It is the first book in the duet and ends in a cliffhanger. This book DOES contain cheating and a love triangle. For some people, this is a hard limit and that's okay. For me, they are not. They only tend to bother me when they are full of malice and utter disrespect (which I don't feel like this book had or was). So be aware of all of this prior to jumping in. Now, if you love an angsty romance, one that will rip open your heart, and HOPEFULLY put it back together again, then this is YOUR book. I'm glad I read it. I was touched, emotional, and basically had a roller coaster of feelings from it. I will be reading the next book the SECOND it comes out as well. You probably will too if you heed my warnings. EEEKKK!!!!!
I am not going to sit here and relay this book to everyone because you can read the synopsis for that. Also, I don't want to spoil it for potential readers. It's the type of book you need to read and feel on your own without outside influence. I will say that I did like it. Once I had a chance to sit down and zone out I got to read it in ONE sitting. It's a hard book to put down. There is so much going on, so much emotional turmoil wrapped into the pages, and a whole lot of angst that it's hard to look away from. As I mentioned above, there is a love triangle. While it's not the most comfortable thing to read about (who would ever want to be in their positions) it does show another side of humans that is prevalent every day. It also shows the flaws, and how easy it is to succumb to feelings that you have held close to for so long.
I very much recommend this book to those who can see past the forbidden aspects of the story. I think once it is all wrapped up we'll feel better about everything that is happening in these characters lives.
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