October 15, 2013
Cassie volunteers to support S.E.C.R.E.T, the covert society in New Orleans that helps women overcome personal and relationship issues by acquainting them with the liberating possibilities of sexual fantasy, and introduces Dauphine to the mystery and adventure. At the end of a year of sexual adventure, Cassie Robichaud believes she has unlocked her true fantasy, a happily-ever-after with her best friend, Will. But when Will's girlfriend announces she's pregnant, everything falls apart and Cassie volunteers to help other S.E.C.R.E.T. clients, the underground society that helps women feel liberated and empowered through a series of sexual encounters. Cassie meets Dauphine and sees her as a prime candidate. She also meets Mark, a handsome local musician, and recruits him to be a sex partner fulfilling fantasies. As Will faces parenthood, he decides to expand his cafe and offers Cassie a huge professional opportunity, while events leave everyone doubting Will is actually the father. Dauphine hits unexpected bumps along her sexual journey, including a run-in with a New Orleans billionaire who has a grudge against the group. Ultimately, though, she'll have the chance to meet her fantasy crush, a local music star, and he just may be her forever-love. Pseudonymous author Adeline's follow-up to S.E.C.R.E.T. (2013) offers an intriguing erotic hook, and there are plenty of readers who will appreciate the storyline and the hot, fairly graphic sex scenes that are sprinkled liberally through the text. Frankly, though, the original book left some readers outraged with the awful ending, and this book will offend them again for the same reason. Also, romance fans (since that does seem to be the target audience) will be affronted by too many character choices and the rushed nature of Dauphine's arc. Readers looking for a smoothly written story with a lot of hot sex may enjoy this book. Those who want to feel satisfied emotionally may want to avoid it. Sort of sexy, but disappointing overall.
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