Oh, joy, another book by Sarah Eden! She is one of my very favorite authors! I'm grateful to have been able to receive this ARC from the publisher and be able to read and review it.

This book is a testament to the author's skill in weaving together narratives from multiple series, bringing back a diverse cast of characters whose journeys have been meticulously crafted over the years. For readers who have followed the interconnected stories by Sarah M. Eden, the reappearance of familiar faces adds layers of depth and resonance. The suspense surrounding even the side characters is enriched by an understanding of their past trials and tribulations, making their arcs all the more compelling. It is a rewarding read for longtime fans.

What truly sets this installment apart is its profound exploration of character empathy. The narrative's portrayal of individuals succumbing to nitpicking and self-imposed victimhood, though exaggerated, serves as a compelling cautionary tale about the impact such behaviors can have on one's surroundings. This aligns with the author's ability to evoke strong emotional responses, ranging from frustration to deep understanding, showcasing her mastery in character development.

While this book can technically be read as a standalone, newcomers may find themselves missing the rich, multi-layered context that longtime readers enjoy. The reintroduction of characters from various series adds depth and emotional resonance that is best appreciated with prior knowledge of their backstories. For instance, the suspense surrounding even side characters gains significance when one is familiar with their previous trials and growth.

This story lifted me to a new level of amazing character empathy. The sad state that a person can lower themselves to when they succumb to nitpicking and feeling put-upon, and how they can spoil the existence of everyone around them, was stunningly maddening!

In summary, this book offers a rich, emotionally charged experience that especially rewards readers familiar with the author's broader universe. Its insightful examination of personal flaws and interpersonal dynamics makes it a standout addition to the series.

I always appreciate a happy ending. In this book, the blend of a satisfying conclusion with lingering uncertainties about certain characters' paths adds depth to the narrative. It mirrors the complexities of real-life relationships and personal growth, where resolutions are often accompanied by new challenges and questions.

I received an advanced reader copy from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review.
#TheHuntresses #NetGalley #TheBestKeptSecrets

The Best kept secrets is part of the Huntresses series written by Sara M.Eden. The Huntress series follows a group of friends, the Huntress’es and their male counterparts the Pack.

This book focuses on Eve, a young woman from an impoverished family and a member of the Huntresses, and Duke, a young man from a wealthy but highly combative family. This book takes place at a house party where the two groups of friends get together to celebrate Christmas.
Duke and Eve have a lot to overcome in both of their families in order to be able to build a future together.
This book is a great addition to this series! In fact it was one of my favorites of the series. I highly recommend giving this book a try!

The Best-Kept Secrets is a fine addition to the Huntresses series by Sarah M. Eden. The story line is woven around a Christmas house party for two groups of young adults who have interacted in previous books in this series. The main characters are Eve the daughter of a genteel and loving but impoverished family and Duke, the only child of well-off, bickering, arrogant, and complaining parents and grandmother. For Eve the house party may be the last time she will get to interact with her friends group, she has been asked to give up her social life so that her younger siblings may have enough funds. Duke's parents and grandmother decide to barge in and attend the house party uninvited. Duke is required by his parents and grandparent be the constant arbitrator between them and his aunt and uncle who are hosting the event. There are twists and sparks flying in the plot as Eve and Duke begin to develop a romance and the family bickering steps over the line. The characters, plot and setting are well done and engaging. Strongly recommended for readers of historical romance.

This is a continuation of the Huntresses series, a wonderful spin off of the Jonquil/Gents/Lancaster series. These books are sooo good, the characters so well written, the stories intertwined.

This story belongs to Eve and Duke, who belongs to Charlie's group, The Pack. Eve and her sister Nia are from Ireland. They are not wealthy, and even less well to do at the beginning of this story. The group has made plans to meet for Christmas, the only time they could all be together, And since this friend group is so wonderful, they have tasked Duke to get the girls from Ireland.

The trip has some difficulties, but as Duke tries to keep things in an even keep, friendships move past friendship just a bit.

Duke is an only child, and is the moderator with his family. He tries to keep everyone on an even keel, placating his family with words and deeds. But he is worn through and ready to make a new life now that he is done at Cambridge. Family is making the party difficult. But with some help, maybe change can happen.

I loved these characters. They just want to be seen, to be understood, and to feel respected. They feel it with their friends, but how to make others see it too. I love how characters from the Gents have come to play in this too. I can't wait for the next book, whose story will be next?

TheHuntresses #NetGalley

I loved the depth of this story where the two main characters, Eve and Duke, have felt on the outside looking in in their family relationships. One comes from a family that is struggling and almost in the poor house. The other is in the middle of a family feud that started before he was born. Each has secrets of their own. This is part of a series and became a favorite.

At its heart this is a story about family and how those connections can make ones life enjoyable or miserable. The main characters are well drawn out as are the side characters. There is a loooot of family drama, almost too much.

LOOOOOOOOOOOOVE THIS BOOK! I love the way that you get to see the characters fight for one another and you see them falling in love. It's not easy, but they find the way. Sarah just writes such relatable characters and you can't help but see yourself in them.