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The Essien Series #1
Keeping Secrets
Have you ever loved someone and didn't even know it?
That's the dilemma facing Felix Essien when he wakes from a coma to find he is married to the most beautiful and sensual woman he's ever known. He cannot remember her or their wedding. He who had sworn never to get married or to give his heart to another. Yet he feels an intense bond with her that he intends to explore fully.
Ebony can't believe her good fortune when her paper husband wakes not remembering the temporary marriage arrangement with no intimacies he'd proposed but is now the adoring husband she's always dreamt of. She plans to make the most of the passion blossoming between them.
However would he still feel that way when he regains his memory and realises she's been keeping secrets and their marriage is not what he thinks it is.
That's the dilemma facing Felix Essien when he wakes from a coma to find he is married to the most beautiful and sensual woman he's ever known. He cannot remember her or their wedding. He who had sworn never to get married or to give his heart to another. Yet he feels an intense bond with her that he intends to explore fully.
Ebony can't believe her good fortune when her paper husband wakes not remembering the temporary marriage arrangement with no intimacies he'd proposed but is now the adoring husband she's always dreamt of. She plans to make the most of the passion blossoming between them.
However would he still feel that way when he regains his memory and realises she's been keeping secrets and their marriage is not what he thinks it is.
226 pages, Paperback
First published May 5, 2014
About the author
Kiru Taye
58 books318 followersAs a lover of romance novels, Kiru wanted to read stories about Africans falling in love. When she couldn’t find those books, she decided to write the stories she wanted to read.
Kiru writes sensual stories featuring African characters whether on the continent or in the Diaspora. When she's not writing you can find her either immersed in a good book or catching up with friends and family. She currently lives in the South of England with her husband and three children.
Kiru is a founding member of Romance Writers of West Africa. In 2011, her debut romance novella, His Treasure, won the Book of the Year at the Love Romances Café Awards. She is the 2015 Romance Writer of the Year at the Nigerian Writers Awards and 2017 Author of the Year at the Ufere Awards.
Kiru writes sensual stories featuring African characters whether on the continent or in the Diaspora. When she's not writing you can find her either immersed in a good book or catching up with friends and family. She currently lives in the South of England with her husband and three children.
Kiru is a founding member of Romance Writers of West Africa. In 2011, her debut romance novella, His Treasure, won the Book of the Year at the Love Romances Café Awards. She is the 2015 Romance Writer of the Year at the Nigerian Writers Awards and 2017 Author of the Year at the Ufere Awards.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
May 2, 2014
I consider myself quite privileged to be part of the team that saw the fruition of this book. Felix and Ebony's story is quite dear to a few select people and i'm sure they'll all agree that our babies have finally come of age with the release of this book. It's a story of coming full circle through betrayals, heartaches, pride, loss, manipulations and ultimately finding acceptance and forgiveness through love. Kiru expertly crafted a well plotted and cleverly woven story-line full of suspense and intrigue at each turn; i was on the edge of my sit trying to decipher what secrets were being concealed and she kept up the suspense quite well. The Essien Trilogy is the launch of another great series from a great author and this book is a true testament to her abilities; her ability to make her characters come alive and you lose yourself for a few hours in their world, sharing their experiences with them.
Thumbs up girl
Thumbs up girl
May 25, 2017
The Levels of irritation I felt reading this book were real. The full extent of my venting can be found here: my link text
So this book follows Felix and Ebony as they attempt to maneuver their fake relationship ( only one person remembers that it is not real) and make it a real one, they are faced with the obstacles of reality and truth. After waking up out of a coma, Felix faces a wife and a marriage he did not remember having. His wife Ebony, is excited at having the chance to make their paper agreement into a true marriage, if only she could divulge the secrets of their past. (Trust me I only said that to make it sound super intriguing).
When I wasn't rolling my eyes and sighing heavily, I was being entertained by the adult scenes and the fact that these things were occurring in Nigeria.
So this book follows Felix and Ebony as they attempt to maneuver their fake relationship ( only one person remembers that it is not real) and make it a real one, they are faced with the obstacles of reality and truth. After waking up out of a coma, Felix faces a wife and a marriage he did not remember having. His wife Ebony, is excited at having the chance to make their paper agreement into a true marriage, if only she could divulge the secrets of their past. (Trust me I only said that to make it sound super intriguing).
When I wasn't rolling my eyes and sighing heavily, I was being entertained by the adult scenes and the fact that these things were occurring in Nigeria.
June 4, 2014
Felix Essien and Ebony's marriage is nothing more than an arrangement on paper. Or at least, that's what it was supposed to be. No sex. No children. After the allotted time, they both go their separate ways having gained what they needed from the deal. Simple, right? Not really. After tragedy strikes the newly married couple, Felix is left without his memories, and Ebony can't help but take advantage of the new man who not only wants to share her bed, but her heart, too. Problem is, she's got secrets, and they could very well destroy everything.
Keeping Secrets is by far my favorite Kiru Taye book so far. Hands down, no questions asked. The characters are lively, beautiful in their flaws, and so passionate. In fact, you can feel that heat popping off the pages. You can't blame Ebony for the route she takes when her husband wakes up out of his coma, frankly, because the caring, attentive, good man who comes out of it is exactly the kind of man any woman would be proud to have. He's passionate, loving ... or trying to be. But he knows something is off.
I think what I liked most about this book is how well Ms. Taye keeps even her characters from giving away the twist. A simple slip of a sentence or thought, and that would have done it, honestly. But she wrote it in such a way that those secrets stayed in the dark until the very end, making me rhetorically rip every little thing apart to try and figure out what happened to these two before the accident. I love it when an author can keep me engaged from start to finish like that. Really, it's a feat. And she should be proud of accomplishing that.
There's one secret at the end that kind of gets left hanging, a who done it, sort of thing. Thank you to the author for giving the little snippet of the next in the series and answering that question. That was a great way to do it.
Well done. I look forward to the next in the series!
Keeping Secrets is by far my favorite Kiru Taye book so far. Hands down, no questions asked. The characters are lively, beautiful in their flaws, and so passionate. In fact, you can feel that heat popping off the pages. You can't blame Ebony for the route she takes when her husband wakes up out of his coma, frankly, because the caring, attentive, good man who comes out of it is exactly the kind of man any woman would be proud to have. He's passionate, loving ... or trying to be. But he knows something is off.
I think what I liked most about this book is how well Ms. Taye keeps even her characters from giving away the twist. A simple slip of a sentence or thought, and that would have done it, honestly. But she wrote it in such a way that those secrets stayed in the dark until the very end, making me rhetorically rip every little thing apart to try and figure out what happened to these two before the accident. I love it when an author can keep me engaged from start to finish like that. Really, it's a feat. And she should be proud of accomplishing that.
There's one secret at the end that kind of gets left hanging, a who done it, sort of thing. Thank you to the author for giving the little snippet of the next in the series and answering that question. That was a great way to do it.
Well done. I look forward to the next in the series!
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November 12, 2018Yes, this is my book and the first in an exciting new series! :D
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January 10, 2023
3.5 stars
December 6, 2014
Keeping Secrets is a short book, under 200 pages, full of twists and secrets that will keep the reader interested till the end. The author does a wonderful job at balancing current day with flashbacks, so the reader can follow along with the story and have the plot slowly unravel before your eyes. The problem with writing a review for this book stems from the fact I can’t give too much information or I will spoil the experience of the story.
Ebony is called back home to Nigeria and comes face to face with Felix at the airport. Not understanding why he is there offering a ride to her mother’s home, she reluctantly accepts the offer and their story picks up from there. She is dealing with the loss of her brother and father from years ago and holds a great amount of guilt for that. After spending ten years with a man and close to marrying him, that has fallen apart so she is really trying to find her way and pick up the pieces of her life.
Felix still reeling from his childhood and the relationship between his mother and father has focused on the banking business of his family. He is successful and an important figure to the society of Lagos, but the board members feel he needs to be married and soon. Reluctant to submit to their demands he finds that maybe he could make something work, even for two years with Ebony, that was until he stumbled across something and ran, leading him to be involved in an accident and in a coma for six weeks. When he comes out of the coma, he finds he can’t remember Ebony or anything about their past. This is where the story gets good.
The amount of blackmailing, secrets lies and manipulation muddied the water for Ebony and Felix; they are going to have to sort out all of the issues to come to the truth. The problem is Felix has a temper with a very short fuse. Ebony finds she is more in an apologetic position and has a hard time figuring out what she is really guilty of. Once they both come across a piece of evidence that shows they were brought together by fate and not manipulation, they decide to come clean with everything and see if they have what it will take to make this work.
I enjoyed this book and all of the twist and turns that came with it. It captivated my attention quickly. Although I did question a few things such as how he could be getting back to normal routine so quickly while still in casts and injured and lacking memory, everything else was pretty smooth reading. I would say this would be a great afternoon read if you like a bit of suspense and mystery with your romance.
Ebony is called back home to Nigeria and comes face to face with Felix at the airport. Not understanding why he is there offering a ride to her mother’s home, she reluctantly accepts the offer and their story picks up from there. She is dealing with the loss of her brother and father from years ago and holds a great amount of guilt for that. After spending ten years with a man and close to marrying him, that has fallen apart so she is really trying to find her way and pick up the pieces of her life.
Felix still reeling from his childhood and the relationship between his mother and father has focused on the banking business of his family. He is successful and an important figure to the society of Lagos, but the board members feel he needs to be married and soon. Reluctant to submit to their demands he finds that maybe he could make something work, even for two years with Ebony, that was until he stumbled across something and ran, leading him to be involved in an accident and in a coma for six weeks. When he comes out of the coma, he finds he can’t remember Ebony or anything about their past. This is where the story gets good.
The amount of blackmailing, secrets lies and manipulation muddied the water for Ebony and Felix; they are going to have to sort out all of the issues to come to the truth. The problem is Felix has a temper with a very short fuse. Ebony finds she is more in an apologetic position and has a hard time figuring out what she is really guilty of. Once they both come across a piece of evidence that shows they were brought together by fate and not manipulation, they decide to come clean with everything and see if they have what it will take to make this work.
I enjoyed this book and all of the twist and turns that came with it. It captivated my attention quickly. Although I did question a few things such as how he could be getting back to normal routine so quickly while still in casts and injured and lacking memory, everything else was pretty smooth reading. I would say this would be a great afternoon read if you like a bit of suspense and mystery with your romance.
March 18, 2015
Keeping Secrets is the first release in the “Essien Trilogy” by Kiru Taye, which kept me intrigued with the hero Felix Essien and the heroine Ebony Duru. Throughout the story hidden truths are exposed as the author takes the reader on a journey from the present to the past.
Ebony contemplated Felix’s reaction when he awakened from a coma since the night of their wedding. What she didn’t anticipate was for him to suffer from amnesia; Felix had no recollection of his new bride or what landed him in the hospital. However, he could recall he vowed to never get married. After his father assured him that Ebony was indeed his wife, Felix made one declaration that begun the journey of unspoken truths “tell me how I proposed to you”. As Felix made progress in his recovery, his curiosity about marrying Ebony grew until his brother, Mark revealed the details. Unfortunately, Felix viewed Ebony’s omission as deceiving and self-rewarding, especially when her pregnancy was shared. As Ebony voiced her plans regarding their unborn child, Felix spoke his “no Essien child has ever been brought up outside our family. I’m not about to change a family tradition”; even though he had his own doubts.
As every good story has one character that is considered a thorn, this one isn’t any different. Helen Douglas is the daughter of one of Felix’s biggest clients; who paints a portrait for Ebony that she is fit to become Mrs. Felix Essien by her proposition.
I was surprised when Lord Essien, Felix’s father, opened up about his own indiscretions during the marriage to his true love, Felix’s mother, and left him with a DVD. The true masterminds were made known acknowledging a parent’s foresight is greater than a son or daughter’s understanding.
There’s one unresolved matter that will continue into book two that has my curiosity piqued and that’s why are the Essien men being blackmailed and this situation is far from being over. Readers you will not be disappointed with Keeping Secrets, plus there’s an added bonus; the author provided a few pages from the second installment “Making Scandal,” Mark Essien and Faith Brown’s story.
-Reviewed by LaMona
Ebony contemplated Felix’s reaction when he awakened from a coma since the night of their wedding. What she didn’t anticipate was for him to suffer from amnesia; Felix had no recollection of his new bride or what landed him in the hospital. However, he could recall he vowed to never get married. After his father assured him that Ebony was indeed his wife, Felix made one declaration that begun the journey of unspoken truths “tell me how I proposed to you”. As Felix made progress in his recovery, his curiosity about marrying Ebony grew until his brother, Mark revealed the details. Unfortunately, Felix viewed Ebony’s omission as deceiving and self-rewarding, especially when her pregnancy was shared. As Ebony voiced her plans regarding their unborn child, Felix spoke his “no Essien child has ever been brought up outside our family. I’m not about to change a family tradition”; even though he had his own doubts.
As every good story has one character that is considered a thorn, this one isn’t any different. Helen Douglas is the daughter of one of Felix’s biggest clients; who paints a portrait for Ebony that she is fit to become Mrs. Felix Essien by her proposition.
I was surprised when Lord Essien, Felix’s father, opened up about his own indiscretions during the marriage to his true love, Felix’s mother, and left him with a DVD. The true masterminds were made known acknowledging a parent’s foresight is greater than a son or daughter’s understanding.
There’s one unresolved matter that will continue into book two that has my curiosity piqued and that’s why are the Essien men being blackmailed and this situation is far from being over. Readers you will not be disappointed with Keeping Secrets, plus there’s an added bonus; the author provided a few pages from the second installment “Making Scandal,” Mark Essien and Faith Brown’s story.
-Reviewed by LaMona
June 17, 2014
Maaaaan! There were so many secrets floating around this story I lost count! Just when I thought "all had been revealed", someone shows up with MORE information! Whew!
On the night of his marriage to Ebony, Felix Essien is critically injured and lies in a coma for months. When he awakens, he has no memory of how he came to be hospitalized, and no memory of his wedding or his wife...or the conditions of their marriage. He can recall something about a marriage and his board giving him an ultimatum, but little else. Ebony is immediately on edge. Once she and his family members assure Felix that he is indeed married to Ebony, and his father intimates that Felix has "something to atone for", he seems bound and determined to get close to his wife. He can tell she's hiding something, but giving him too much information can hinder his recovery, so most choose to instead to let his memory return on its own gradually.
His memory does slowly return...with good and bad consequences. As they do, secrets are revealed, and good lord! Everyone has them! The reader is blindsided more than once...and there's nothing you can do about it! LOL!
My favorite part of the story is that even though Felix and Ebony are on shaky ground, even though there are secrets and unspoken words; even though there is hesitancy, they do not turn away from each other. Despite the pain and anger, there is still communication. And, when you have that, you have hope.
Kudos to Kiru Taye for including a glimpse of book 2 at the end of the story. While it opens up another door, the scene itself is very satisfying! (D@mn Dele!)
Anxiously awaiting "Making Scandal".
On the night of his marriage to Ebony, Felix Essien is critically injured and lies in a coma for months. When he awakens, he has no memory of how he came to be hospitalized, and no memory of his wedding or his wife...or the conditions of their marriage. He can recall something about a marriage and his board giving him an ultimatum, but little else. Ebony is immediately on edge. Once she and his family members assure Felix that he is indeed married to Ebony, and his father intimates that Felix has "something to atone for", he seems bound and determined to get close to his wife. He can tell she's hiding something, but giving him too much information can hinder his recovery, so most choose to instead to let his memory return on its own gradually.
His memory does slowly return...with good and bad consequences. As they do, secrets are revealed, and good lord! Everyone has them! The reader is blindsided more than once...and there's nothing you can do about it! LOL!
My favorite part of the story is that even though Felix and Ebony are on shaky ground, even though there are secrets and unspoken words; even though there is hesitancy, they do not turn away from each other. Despite the pain and anger, there is still communication. And, when you have that, you have hope.
Kudos to Kiru Taye for including a glimpse of book 2 at the end of the story. While it opens up another door, the scene itself is very satisfying! (D@mn Dele!)
Anxiously awaiting "Making Scandal".
May 12, 2014
KEEPING SECRETS was an enjoyable feel-good read for me. It shows why some secrets should not be kept.
Felix and Ebony are married – on paper only that is. However, Felix doesn't know anymore that it is only a fake. Awakening from a coma he cannot remember what happened the last few months which includes him meeting and marrying Ebony. Suddenly he is literally laying the world to her feet – he wants to take care of her, adores and desires her and wants to be the best husband he can for her. Ebony is savoring all this and cannot bring herself to tell Felix the truth.
But what will happen when Felix’ memory finally comes back? When both their secrets get revealed? Does their now blossoming relationship have a chance?
This story was so refreshing; firstly it was set in Lagos, a location I haven’t read much about yet – and then there is the fact that the story unfolds reversely. They already have – some kind of – a relationship and the revelation how it became the way it is is revealed backwards – down memory lane. The suspense and intrigue is maintained very well until the end.
I liked Felix… a lot! He is a sexy yet caring alpha male that determined to do anything to show Ebony he can be the attentive husband she deserves.
Although Felix surely is a domineering alpha, Ebony knows exactly how to get what she wants. She is strong and independent. I loved that about her!
A story about secrets, betrayals, manipulation – and finally forgiveness and love. It is well plotted, well written and has likeable and believable characters. 4 secret stars from me!
Felix and Ebony are married – on paper only that is. However, Felix doesn't know anymore that it is only a fake. Awakening from a coma he cannot remember what happened the last few months which includes him meeting and marrying Ebony. Suddenly he is literally laying the world to her feet – he wants to take care of her, adores and desires her and wants to be the best husband he can for her. Ebony is savoring all this and cannot bring herself to tell Felix the truth.
But what will happen when Felix’ memory finally comes back? When both their secrets get revealed? Does their now blossoming relationship have a chance?
This story was so refreshing; firstly it was set in Lagos, a location I haven’t read much about yet – and then there is the fact that the story unfolds reversely. They already have – some kind of – a relationship and the revelation how it became the way it is is revealed backwards – down memory lane. The suspense and intrigue is maintained very well until the end.
I liked Felix… a lot! He is a sexy yet caring alpha male that determined to do anything to show Ebony he can be the attentive husband she deserves.
Although Felix surely is a domineering alpha, Ebony knows exactly how to get what she wants. She is strong and independent. I loved that about her!
A story about secrets, betrayals, manipulation – and finally forgiveness and love. It is well plotted, well written and has likeable and believable characters. 4 secret stars from me!
June 12, 2014
Keeping Secrets (The Essien Trilogy #1) by Kiru Taye
4 1/2 of 5 stars
When Felix awakens from a coma without his memory he finds he is married to Ebony, a beautiful woman that he cannot remember. Ebony, the beautiful woman who has sat at her husband's side while he was in a coma for weeks after their wedding night, hopes he will continue to forget just long enough to fall in love. When the couple leaves the hospital, Felix returns to what he assumes is their home and his life before the accident. He works for his family's company and restarts building the relationship with his wife. Ebony doesn't tell him of their arrangement; their marriage is on paper only. While she’s keeping her secret, so is he.
I enjoyed the layout of this book; it started almost at the end and worked backwards. The chemistry between the two was hot and the supporting characters were interesting as well.
I would recommend this book and plan to read the rest of the trilogy.
*A complimentary copy was given in exchange for an honest review*
Susan, My Secret Book Spot
4 1/2 of 5 stars
When Felix awakens from a coma without his memory he finds he is married to Ebony, a beautiful woman that he cannot remember. Ebony, the beautiful woman who has sat at her husband's side while he was in a coma for weeks after their wedding night, hopes he will continue to forget just long enough to fall in love. When the couple leaves the hospital, Felix returns to what he assumes is their home and his life before the accident. He works for his family's company and restarts building the relationship with his wife. Ebony doesn't tell him of their arrangement; their marriage is on paper only. While she’s keeping her secret, so is he.
I enjoyed the layout of this book; it started almost at the end and worked backwards. The chemistry between the two was hot and the supporting characters were interesting as well.
I would recommend this book and plan to read the rest of the trilogy.
*A complimentary copy was given in exchange for an honest review*
Susan, My Secret Book Spot
May 20, 2014
I’ll admit that I’m a huge fan of Kiru Taye’s work. And once again she did not disappoint as she left me intrigued throughout the book, up until the revelation of the last secret.
The amnesia added a nice twist. To be honest, there was so much drama (a good thing) in the story that if Felix had his full memory it would’ve still been great. Yet I liked that he couldn’t remember her and yet knew he loved her (there’s a secret with it that made me giddy). What I couldn’t understand was how he was able to return to work so easily without the memories of the things he’d done for the past few months.
Yes, Ebony was protecting herself and their love by not exposing the truth, and yet she didn’t lie about it. I could understand why she hid so much from Felix. It added to the depth and humanity of the story.
If I talk about the passion between Felix and Ebony I'll have to start fanning myself. It was intense.
I’m looking forward to book two in the series. It should be a great one.
The amnesia added a nice twist. To be honest, there was so much drama (a good thing) in the story that if Felix had his full memory it would’ve still been great. Yet I liked that he couldn’t remember her and yet knew he loved her (there’s a secret with it that made me giddy). What I couldn’t understand was how he was able to return to work so easily without the memories of the things he’d done for the past few months.
Yes, Ebony was protecting herself and their love by not exposing the truth, and yet she didn’t lie about it. I could understand why she hid so much from Felix. It added to the depth and humanity of the story.
If I talk about the passion between Felix and Ebony I'll have to start fanning myself. It was intense.
I’m looking forward to book two in the series. It should be a great one.
August 13, 2016
Excellent! This shows why keeping secrets is not a good idea. Ebony and Felix had kept secrets from each other that complicated their relationship. Even though they were attracted to each other they weren't sure if they could trust their love. Only when they were honest with each other could they resolve their differences.
I look forward to the next book in this trilogy. If it is as good as this one I know I will enjoy it!
*** I was given this book as a gift in exchange for my honest review. ***
I look forward to the next book in this trilogy. If it is as good as this one I know I will enjoy it!
*** I was given this book as a gift in exchange for my honest review. ***
May 1, 2014
This book was fast read and I could not put it down until I finished reading.
A very refreshing love and feel good story set in contemporary Lagos.
Felix got my attention and Ebony is the girl who knows what she wants and got it too. I love the way the story was told, as it happens and down memory lane.
Kiru sure knows how to spin a good tale, it was as if I actually lived the story with Ebony and Felix.
I Highly Recommend
A very refreshing love and feel good story set in contemporary Lagos.
Felix got my attention and Ebony is the girl who knows what she wants and got it too. I love the way the story was told, as it happens and down memory lane.
Kiru sure knows how to spin a good tale, it was as if I actually lived the story with Ebony and Felix.
I Highly Recommend
July 7, 2014
This is my first read from Kiru Taye and I can say I really enjoyed it. I love her writing, the way she describes each character, how they feel or are thinking. This is a first of many, I really enjoyed reading about Africa's elite in Keeping Secrets. This will not be the last of her books I will read, I have them lined up now. But do tell, when is the second part coming out??? I see no date anywhere (not rushing you or anything, LOL).
June 15, 2014
Never keep secrets
Felix and Ebony are in a marriage of convenience...They are both keeping secrets from one another...making an already difficult situation worse. This story has all the elements-love, drama, alpha males, suspense and my standard HEA. Cannot wait to read about the brothers.
A recommend read.
Felix and Ebony are in a marriage of convenience...They are both keeping secrets from one another...making an already difficult situation worse. This story has all the elements-love, drama, alpha males, suspense and my standard HEA. Cannot wait to read about the brothers.
A recommend read.
May 9, 2014
Felix was so sexy, attentive, dominating the list goes on and on I LOVED that this story started out the opposite and as the story went on it unfolded and gave you a better understanding as to how they're relationship became what it was! I'm so excited to read the next book!
Reviewed by Yalitza
Reviewed by Yalitza
May 2, 2014
I totally love this book! The story of Felix and Ebony is beautiful and reflects one thing-true love that weathers the storm. Highly engaging and totally amazing. I couldn't put it down till I finished. I strongly recommend it.
May 6, 2014
I was intrigued from the moment I started reading this story. I loved the main characters, Felix and Ebony. There was so much about them that makes me wish I was them.
It is a well-written book. I can't stop myself from re-reading it and get caught up in it again and again.
It's a great read.
It is a well-written book. I can't stop myself from re-reading it and get caught up in it again and again.
It's a great read.
August 13, 2016
Brilliant and enthralling. A page turner. I love Felix and Ebony. Both strong willed but together they make a team. A wonderful story and a great read.
May 19, 2014
I enjoyed this one! complete review @ http://swoonworthybooks.com
June 29, 2014
Very good book. I read it in three days. The romance story is well written and the intimate portions are very hot. I can't wait to read the next story about Faith and Mark.
July 3, 2014
Great read. First book by Kiru Taye that I've read. She is now one of my favorite authors and I plan to read others of her books.
July 28, 2014
Felix Essien and Ebony. Love the arranged marriage trope and the unique way it was told. Editing problems is the only reason I didn't give it a 5.
April 15, 2015
I loved it. There were times when both characters were frustrating, but all in all an excellent read.
April 18, 2016
Keeping Secrets is the first installment in the Essien Trilogy by Kiru Taye. This is actually the first book I’m reading from this author. To be honest, I initially got this book because it was free on Amazon. #dontjudgeme
Keeping Secrets features the eldest Essien son, Felix, head of the Essien financial dynasty based in Lagos, and his wife Ebony.
This story follows the couple in the aftermath of Felix’s accident and subsequent coma. When Felix awakens from his coma, it is with memory loss as it pertains to his new wife. Did I mention that he got into this accident on his wedding night when he should have been with his wife? Yup. There’s definitely a lot of tension and hidden truths with this couple.
Felix had no recollection of his wife or what landed him in the hospital once he awoke. He is surprised, but happily attracted to Ebony. While he didn’t remember the specifics of their courtship, he knew a few things: he did not want to get married but was being goaded by his board of directors. He was given an ultimatum so to speak: they wanted the CEO to seem settled with little to no scandal. The only way to do this was to appear as a family man.
With the gaps in his memory, he looked to his wife to fill him in on the details. By doing so, we began a rollercoaster of half truths and unspoken angst. There was obvious attraction and love (especially from Ebony) on both sides. Felix realized that he was not the best husband and that he probably did something to hurt Ebony. Once released from the hospital, he went in to overdrive and became the sweet and attentive man that Ebony had longer for. In the aftermath of Felix’s accident, this couple grew closer However, there were a few omissions on Ebony’s part about the past and when the truth is revealed, will Felix be able to overlook that and hold on to the love he never knew he so badly needed. Or will pride and anger get in the way?
Keeping Secrets is a short and easy read about love, second chances, and well, keeping secrets (no pun intended). Admittedly, I would have loved to know more about Ebony, I feel like we only scratched the surface with her. Where was his mother during all of this? Not once did her mother ever come to visit or check in on Felix or even call Ebony. I believe they only spoke once over the phone and it was about Ebony going back to work.
There was also the little issue of Ebony being blackmailed. Someone wanted Ebony to leave her husband, apparently the Eissens wronged someone who wanted to make them pay. While this could have been an interesting subplot, there was a bit missing in my opinion. I didn’t feel legitimately afraid for Ebony, which was a problem. The danger aspect needed to be heightened if I am to believe Ebony was seriously in danger. Ebony didn’t even seem that afraid by it, to be honest. When she finally told Felix about it at the end of the book, she called them “crank calls”. Girl, someone is threatening your life and you call it a crank call? Tuh!
This brings us to the cliffhanger; someone is targeting the Eissen family and we don’t know who it is. I think it’s a pretty safe bet that Felix isn’t the only target. My curiosity has been peaked so I’ll be purchasing the second book, Making Scandal, to see what’s next for this family.
Keeping Secrets features the eldest Essien son, Felix, head of the Essien financial dynasty based in Lagos, and his wife Ebony.
This story follows the couple in the aftermath of Felix’s accident and subsequent coma. When Felix awakens from his coma, it is with memory loss as it pertains to his new wife. Did I mention that he got into this accident on his wedding night when he should have been with his wife? Yup. There’s definitely a lot of tension and hidden truths with this couple.
Felix had no recollection of his wife or what landed him in the hospital once he awoke. He is surprised, but happily attracted to Ebony. While he didn’t remember the specifics of their courtship, he knew a few things: he did not want to get married but was being goaded by his board of directors. He was given an ultimatum so to speak: they wanted the CEO to seem settled with little to no scandal. The only way to do this was to appear as a family man.
With the gaps in his memory, he looked to his wife to fill him in on the details. By doing so, we began a rollercoaster of half truths and unspoken angst. There was obvious attraction and love (especially from Ebony) on both sides. Felix realized that he was not the best husband and that he probably did something to hurt Ebony. Once released from the hospital, he went in to overdrive and became the sweet and attentive man that Ebony had longer for. In the aftermath of Felix’s accident, this couple grew closer However, there were a few omissions on Ebony’s part about the past and when the truth is revealed, will Felix be able to overlook that and hold on to the love he never knew he so badly needed. Or will pride and anger get in the way?
Keeping Secrets is a short and easy read about love, second chances, and well, keeping secrets (no pun intended). Admittedly, I would have loved to know more about Ebony, I feel like we only scratched the surface with her. Where was his mother during all of this? Not once did her mother ever come to visit or check in on Felix or even call Ebony. I believe they only spoke once over the phone and it was about Ebony going back to work.
There was also the little issue of Ebony being blackmailed. Someone wanted Ebony to leave her husband, apparently the Eissens wronged someone who wanted to make them pay. While this could have been an interesting subplot, there was a bit missing in my opinion. I didn’t feel legitimately afraid for Ebony, which was a problem. The danger aspect needed to be heightened if I am to believe Ebony was seriously in danger. Ebony didn’t even seem that afraid by it, to be honest. When she finally told Felix about it at the end of the book, she called them “crank calls”. Girl, someone is threatening your life and you call it a crank call? Tuh!
This brings us to the cliffhanger; someone is targeting the Eissen family and we don’t know who it is. I think it’s a pretty safe bet that Felix isn’t the only target. My curiosity has been peaked so I’ll be purchasing the second book, Making Scandal, to see what’s next for this family.
October 1, 2014
Keeping Secrets, The Essien Trilogy; Book 1, Kiru Taye
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance
Firstly this is book one of a trilogy, but it can be read as a standalone, as book two is about two of the characters from this book and this one has a complete ending – though I’m guessing we see more of Felix and Ebony in subsequent books maybe?
Anyway – I found this book puzzling. The premise sounded fun, potential for all the theatrics and drama I love in a good romance, lost of secrets to escape and cause mayhem. I love that kind of drama and yet...there were all the elements here I love, but they were so softly treated that they fell flat. There was so much that didn’t feel right to me, such as why Ebony agreed to the marriage, I really couldn’t accept the reason given, and the board – would they really do that when Felix had done such a good job for so long? The reasons given here just didn’t seem to fit the people we met. I found her and Felix to be an odd couple, it appears they knew each other in childhood and yet that barely gets a mention to begin, just the fact their parents are friends. I didn’t really understand the purpose of the DVD scenes, and for me they just didn’t work and could have been left out. They didn’t add anything.
Felix is a hard headed businessman and yet seems to lose all sense at times, jumping from being very close to Ebony to suspecting the worst without asking any questions. I found it hard too to accept that she was only months away from being dropped from a 10 year relationship, and yet she fell so quickly for Felix....Nothing seemed to add up. When Helen emerged I was hoping for some good jealous snark scenes between her and Ebony but again that just deflated. For me its a novel full of promise that just didn’t delver. Its not a bad novel, and for those who want an easy to read, drama free romance its fine, just for me it felt too bland, lacked emotion.
Stars: Two and a half, I didn’t dislike the book, just that it needed more for me to like it.
ARC supplied by Netgalley.
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance
Firstly this is book one of a trilogy, but it can be read as a standalone, as book two is about two of the characters from this book and this one has a complete ending – though I’m guessing we see more of Felix and Ebony in subsequent books maybe?
Anyway – I found this book puzzling. The premise sounded fun, potential for all the theatrics and drama I love in a good romance, lost of secrets to escape and cause mayhem. I love that kind of drama and yet...there were all the elements here I love, but they were so softly treated that they fell flat. There was so much that didn’t feel right to me, such as why Ebony agreed to the marriage, I really couldn’t accept the reason given, and the board – would they really do that when Felix had done such a good job for so long? The reasons given here just didn’t seem to fit the people we met. I found her and Felix to be an odd couple, it appears they knew each other in childhood and yet that barely gets a mention to begin, just the fact their parents are friends. I didn’t really understand the purpose of the DVD scenes, and for me they just didn’t work and could have been left out. They didn’t add anything.
Felix is a hard headed businessman and yet seems to lose all sense at times, jumping from being very close to Ebony to suspecting the worst without asking any questions. I found it hard too to accept that she was only months away from being dropped from a 10 year relationship, and yet she fell so quickly for Felix....Nothing seemed to add up. When Helen emerged I was hoping for some good jealous snark scenes between her and Ebony but again that just deflated. For me its a novel full of promise that just didn’t delver. Its not a bad novel, and for those who want an easy to read, drama free romance its fine, just for me it felt too bland, lacked emotion.
Stars: Two and a half, I didn’t dislike the book, just that it needed more for me to like it.
ARC supplied by Netgalley.
April 11, 2018
Mixed feelings on this one. Classic tropey amnesia romance with a king of finance and a woman who married him out of convenience. He wakes up from a coma and doesn't know their marriage is for show, and she can't stand to tell him. And then things get complicated.
On the one hand, I really liked Ebony. Every time she got upset I felt really bad for her, and her desire to have a real relationship (and her confusion over whether her relationship with Felix even could be real) is completely sympathetic. It's wish fulfillment seeing the way Feli cherishes her (...most of the time), which is very fun. Her attraction to Felix is visceral and real and pretty hot, and her softer side (wanting a baby, loving her mother and friend) balances her out and gives her depth.
On the other hand, while I wanted to like Felix, certain things about him skeeve me out. He's very controlling of Ebony, very dominating in an alpha-male way that I know appeals to some readers but has never so much appealed to me. He also seems to change his position on her very quickly, one minute saying of course he loves her and will protect her and the next hating her and being unwilling to listen to her explanations of simple misunderstandings.
So, as much as I wanted to ship it, Felix makes me...a little squeamish. I liked his protectiveness and charisma at first but his controlling side is not so appealing. However, again, a lot of this is my aversion to alpha male characters.
As for the plot, what could be more fun than a combination of marriage of convenience and amnesia? It's quite trope-heavy and melodramatic! Makes for light reading, sometimes hard to take seriously but always fun. The author's tone is just very readable. I will probably try another Kiru Taye in the future. As I said, my feelings are currently kind of mixed.
On the one hand, I really liked Ebony. Every time she got upset I felt really bad for her, and her desire to have a real relationship (and her confusion over whether her relationship with Felix even could be real) is completely sympathetic. It's wish fulfillment seeing the way Feli cherishes her (...most of the time), which is very fun. Her attraction to Felix is visceral and real and pretty hot, and her softer side (wanting a baby, loving her mother and friend) balances her out and gives her depth.
On the other hand, while I wanted to like Felix, certain things about him skeeve me out. He's very controlling of Ebony, very dominating in an alpha-male way that I know appeals to some readers but has never so much appealed to me. He also seems to change his position on her very quickly, one minute saying of course he loves her and will protect her and the next hating her and being unwilling to listen to her explanations of simple misunderstandings.
So, as much as I wanted to ship it, Felix makes me...a little squeamish. I liked his protectiveness and charisma at first but his controlling side is not so appealing. However, again, a lot of this is my aversion to alpha male characters.
As for the plot, what could be more fun than a combination of marriage of convenience and amnesia? It's quite trope-heavy and melodramatic! Makes for light reading, sometimes hard to take seriously but always fun. The author's tone is just very readable. I will probably try another Kiru Taye in the future. As I said, my feelings are currently kind of mixed.
August 16, 2020
This book just had too many unanswered questions. The fact that the main character had a remarkable recovery from a six-week coma. Flex made a full recovery, except for a bit of temporary amnesia. They both agree that the marriage is a business exchange and Ebony was perfectly fine with it; because she just got dump by the man she was supposed to marry. This was all supposed to pretend in front of the media, I get that part they got married for convenience purpose. The part I don’t get or made sense to me if you have amnesia and don’t remember your wife or even getting married then why go along and believing she is your wife?
I really couldn’t understand why add the amnesia if now Ebony wants to be close to Flex, and didn’t tell him the truth about the marriage even if she had also agreed to do this just to help him out. This book was painful to read., Ebony is tortured by the secrets she hides from Felix, which he will find out from his close staff or if his amnesia kick in. Flex hates secrets and lies, but the author would have done better if Flex was trying to find out who and why did they got married instead of having a lot of sex.
It pains me to see that Ebony didn't talk to Felix about their little setup unless she really did want to be with him in the first place. What was her plan? It made no sense for her to try to hide anything.
I wanted to love this book if the author would have played more into the amnesia.
I will probably try another Kiru Taye in the future, but this book didn’t do it for me.
I really couldn’t understand why add the amnesia if now Ebony wants to be close to Flex, and didn’t tell him the truth about the marriage even if she had also agreed to do this just to help him out. This book was painful to read., Ebony is tortured by the secrets she hides from Felix, which he will find out from his close staff or if his amnesia kick in. Flex hates secrets and lies, but the author would have done better if Flex was trying to find out who and why did they got married instead of having a lot of sex.
It pains me to see that Ebony didn't talk to Felix about their little setup unless she really did want to be with him in the first place. What was her plan? It made no sense for her to try to hide anything.
I wanted to love this book if the author would have played more into the amnesia.
I will probably try another Kiru Taye in the future, but this book didn’t do it for me.
April 21, 2016
I know this is fiction but there seems to be a lack of reality attached to the plot plus it was riddled with silly typos.
The reasons for the ‘pretend’ marriage seem rather vacuous for two intelligent and confident people. There are several plot threads that don’t seem to fit, i.e. they don’t remember that they knew each other as children which isn't explained until nearly at the end of the book. The threatening phone calls where the caller’s voice isn't recognised. Some of the chapters are better written than others, some feel rushed and almost as though they are page fillers.
Having mentioned those negatives now on to the positive aspects of the book. This is a much sexier book than I would normally read, so way out of my comfort zone but these aspects were well written and didn't make me cringe as some others I've read have.
As this is Book 1 in a family trilogy (although there are four books in the series!) there will be stories about characters we have already met, the brothers of Felix, to come.
The reasons for the ‘pretend’ marriage seem rather vacuous for two intelligent and confident people. There are several plot threads that don’t seem to fit, i.e. they don’t remember that they knew each other as children which isn't explained until nearly at the end of the book. The threatening phone calls where the caller’s voice isn't recognised. Some of the chapters are better written than others, some feel rushed and almost as though they are page fillers.
Having mentioned those negatives now on to the positive aspects of the book. This is a much sexier book than I would normally read, so way out of my comfort zone but these aspects were well written and didn't make me cringe as some others I've read have.
As this is Book 1 in a family trilogy (although there are four books in the series!) there will be stories about characters we have already met, the brothers of Felix, to come.
October 7, 2019
KEEPING SECRETS by Kiru Taye is a contemporary romance with a plot involving amnesia and a marriage of convenience.
I loved the setting of Lagos, Nigeria; not to mention the sizzling chemistry between the two leads.
Ebony is a strong character, and her hopes and fears of what the future may bring are real and touching.
Felix is a red-hot alpha male who is a bit too domineering and controlling for my tastes. And his penchant for jumping to the wrong conclusion and not listening when misunderstandings are pointed out can be trying.
The story unfolds with flashbacks, keeping the tension up as deception and intrigue are exposed, but there are also a few annoying plot holes. What I thought would be a major subplot (which was nicely established) disappeared only to pop-up at the end of the book. And even that wasn’t fully resolved.
But minor niggles aside, this is an easy read if you go with the flow. So, just relax, and enjoy watching Felix and Ebony work through their problems with passion and fire.
I loved the setting of Lagos, Nigeria; not to mention the sizzling chemistry between the two leads.
Ebony is a strong character, and her hopes and fears of what the future may bring are real and touching.
Felix is a red-hot alpha male who is a bit too domineering and controlling for my tastes. And his penchant for jumping to the wrong conclusion and not listening when misunderstandings are pointed out can be trying.
The story unfolds with flashbacks, keeping the tension up as deception and intrigue are exposed, but there are also a few annoying plot holes. What I thought would be a major subplot (which was nicely established) disappeared only to pop-up at the end of the book. And even that wasn’t fully resolved.
But minor niggles aside, this is an easy read if you go with the flow. So, just relax, and enjoy watching Felix and Ebony work through their problems with passion and fire.
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