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The Secret Bride #1-3
Secret Bride: The Complete Trilogy
Secrets must be kept.Vows never broken.Till death do us part…Unless everything changes.Captive in one life…Kept in another…Taken to now be the wife I am forced to be.You will take this bride.To have and to hold from this day forward.Till death do you part.This will be your solemn vow.You have no choice.***The Secret Bride series is a dark psychological thriller. If you dare… join me in the march down the aisle.
516 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 21, 2022
About the author
Alta Hensley
95 books1,622 followersAlta Hensley is a USA TODAY bestselling author of hot, dark and dirty romance. She is also an Amazon Top 10 bestselling author. Being a multi-published author in the romance genre, Alta is known for her dark, gritty alpha heroes, sometimes sweet love stories, hot eroticism, and engaging tales of the constant struggle between dominance and submission.
She lives in Astoria, Oregon with her husband, two daughters, and an Australian Shepherd. When she isn't walking the coastline, and drinking beer in her favorite breweries, she is writing about villains who always get their love story and happily ever after.
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She lives in Astoria, Oregon with her husband, two daughters, and an Australian Shepherd. When she isn't walking the coastline, and drinking beer in her favorite breweries, she is writing about villains who always get their love story and happily ever after.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AltaHensleyA...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Alta-Hensley/e...
Website: www.altahensley.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/altahensley
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/alta-...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@altahensley
Join her mailing list: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
June 21, 2022
Captive Bride was sensational!
This story took us on a long, breath taking, and scary journey through a haunted village and a crazy man who rules it all. It was twisted, it was dark, and it was especially dirty.
Kept Bride was awesome in its continuance of Ember and Christopher's story. They have entered a whole new world. Christopher has to reintroduce himself back into his life in New York. But poor Ember has never experienced the noise, the people, as she tries to find a place to fit in Christopher's life.
Taken Bride continues with its dark and unbelievable story of Ember and Christopher and their journey that has so many twists and turns, jumping from love to tragedy and then to devastation and back to hope.
Alta has written a sensational series, taking the reader through an emotional abyss of anguish, despair, passion and finally finding peace.
6 gut wrenching stars!
This story took us on a long, breath taking, and scary journey through a haunted village and a crazy man who rules it all. It was twisted, it was dark, and it was especially dirty.
Kept Bride was awesome in its continuance of Ember and Christopher's story. They have entered a whole new world. Christopher has to reintroduce himself back into his life in New York. But poor Ember has never experienced the noise, the people, as she tries to find a place to fit in Christopher's life.
Taken Bride continues with its dark and unbelievable story of Ember and Christopher and their journey that has so many twists and turns, jumping from love to tragedy and then to devastation and back to hope.
Alta has written a sensational series, taking the reader through an emotional abyss of anguish, despair, passion and finally finding peace.
6 gut wrenching stars!
June 20, 2022
(Thank you Valentine PR & Literary Management and the author Alta Hensley for the eARC in exchange for a honest, spoiler free review)
Thoughts
This was a trilogy of three books: Captive Bride, Kept Bride and Taken Bride. It was also the first read from Alta Hensley for me.
Captive Bride starts with Richard’s capturing of Christopher, a photographer for trespassing. He then met Ember, who is used to harass Christopher into submission while being imprisoned herself.
I requested for this ARC as I like captive books and Captive Bride had a fantastic start in keeping me hooked. It follows the couple through the ordeal of being captured and how will they move on from it during Kept Bride. Taken Bride then wraps up the story where Christopher fights for Ember to be with him.
The suspense was written well to a certain extent but Christopher and Ember were frustrating to read at some points, especially during Kept Bride where there was more telling than showing. The end was also predictable and it felt incomplete in terms of tying the story up well.
Thoughts
This was a trilogy of three books: Captive Bride, Kept Bride and Taken Bride. It was also the first read from Alta Hensley for me.
Captive Bride starts with Richard’s capturing of Christopher, a photographer for trespassing. He then met Ember, who is used to harass Christopher into submission while being imprisoned herself.
I requested for this ARC as I like captive books and Captive Bride had a fantastic start in keeping me hooked. It follows the couple through the ordeal of being captured and how will they move on from it during Kept Bride. Taken Bride then wraps up the story where Christopher fights for Ember to be with him.
The suspense was written well to a certain extent but Christopher and Ember were frustrating to read at some points, especially during Kept Bride where there was more telling than showing. The end was also predictable and it felt incomplete in terms of tying the story up well.
July 3, 2022
Secret Bride box set by Alta Hensley is The Complete Trilogy of the Secret Bride series. This is such a great dark romance read. It is one that keeps you turning the page and just wanting more. Ms. Hensley is one of my go to authors, so I highly recommend this book if like me you like dark reads.
Enjoyed!
Enjoyed!
June 21, 2022
CAPTIVE BRIDE--KEPT BRIDE--TAKEN BRIDE
Captive Bride: A Dark Romance (The Secret Bride Book 1)
WELCOME TO MY PRISON, MY DEAR
I am still struggling to get my breathing and heart rate under control. For me, this book was like witnessing a horrific accident where you need to look away, but you can’t make yourself do it—you just keep turning the pages. When Ms. Alta Hensley stated that this was the darkest she had written, she wasn’t lying.
As a reviewer, I must keep this short and not give anything away; I guess this could be considered a psychological thriller. The story has the good, the bad, and the very evil of people. One is innocent and naïve, but a victim, no less. One is a rule-breaker that must pay for his sins, and now he is trapped in a living nightmare. One is in control and plays judge, jury, and executioner—all in the name of the Lord’s work.
“Stay on the Path. The rules are so simple. Break the rules, and you will pay the price.”
“This isn’t about me. God spoke, and God is never wrong.”
“I’m the ghost of Hallelujah Junction.”
“There is nothing you can do. This is our forever. Fake happiness, false hope, and nothing but dark and evil.”
Warning to those who hate cliffhangers—this ends on a heart-stopping cliffhanger. Will I read the following two books, Kept Bride and Taken Bride---YES---I am too invested in this story, and I must see where it goes next.
Kept Bride: A Dark Romance (The Secret Bride Book 2)
WILL I EVER KNOW WHAT NORMAL IS SUPPOSED TO BE?
The second book in The Secret Bride trilogy is not as much a harrowing psychological thriller as the first book, Captive Bride. In many ways, it is a crueler reality than when Ember was just the Ghost of Hallelujah Junction. She goes from one prison to another, and the results are scary, vicious, and in many ways, more challenging. At least what she was used to was comfortable and her normal—but the asphalt jungle of New York City is full of the unknown.
“I think about when things were simpler, with my books and my cat, Pine Cone. I don’t want to forget like Christopher does. If I forget, it will be as if I never existed. Hallelujah Junction might be Christopher’s nightmare, but it’s all I had. It’s me. I’m nothing but the ghost of Hallelujah Junction stuck in a different kind of purgatory.”
As a reviewer, I must keep this short and not give anything away; I guess this could be considered another page-turning psychological thriller. The story has the good, the bad, and the very evil of people. Ember has no memory of life before Papa Rich and living as a ghost, accepting his word and dictates. Christopher has accepted Ember, is dedicated to her care, and that includes escaping a madman that has held them prisoner, forced them to marry, and will kill to have his way. Christopher is determined to find freedom for them both—and when the world wants to say they aren’t married—he fights back and insists they are in all ways that matter. When his mother is against Ember, he tries to keep the peace, but Ember has no peace. The wolves at the door are dressed in finery, but their bite is lethal—the fate of Christopher and Ember hangs in the balance.
Ember: “We’re married now. I know your mother says we aren’t. But I believe we are. Under God, we are. In my heart and soul, we are. How do you feel?”
Christopher: “You’re my wife. I don’t care what anyone says; you are my wife. Yes, we made wedding vows, but I made my own vow to you that has nothing to do with being married. I’m never going to leave you, Ember. I’m here for you through all of this. I’m not letting you go. I know you’re afraid I will, but I swear to you, you’re mine. My wife. My future.”
“My captive bride is finally happy. A little taste of freedom is all it takes.”
Ember: “He’s my husband.”
Louisa: “No, Amber, he isn’t.”
Ember: “I’m not going to leave Christopher. I’m sorry. I’m not.”
Louisa: “Then you’re just as bad as Richard. He may have forced you both to get married, but you are forcing it to continue. My son was a victim of your father. But you, Amber, are torturing him more than Richard ever did.”
“I relate to Alice. I, too, have gone down my own rabbit hole. I’m in a Wonderland of my own. A mad, mad world where everything is foreign and different. But I’m coming out of it stronger. I have to believe that.”
Warning to those who hate cliffhangers—this ends on another heart-stopping cliffhanger. I have already preordered the last book, Taken Bride. I am too invested in this story, and I must see where it finally ends for Christopher and Ember.
Taken Bride: A Dark Romance (The Secret Bride Book 3)
IT’S HOW OUR DEMENTED LOVE STORY ENDS
The third and final book in The Secret Bride trilogy is a psychological thriller roller coaster ride. What is eviler than a demented mad man who holds a woman as his captive daughter, forces her to marry, and kills those who violate his terms? A wealthy socialite mother who uses her wealth and power to manipulate people and help two evil men, all in the name of protecting her son. So which is worse? They are equally as disturbing.
The final story gives closure to this tale—for both Christopher and Ember. They may have been brought together under duress, literally chained together, forced to recite wedding vows and act as they were married—but fate plays a more significant role—because love wins—and yes, dear reader, you get the coveted happily ever after ending that Christopher and Ember deserve. It is always wonderful when good wins over evil.
“She’s led me into the eye of the storm, and the hurricane of emotions steals what little bit of sanity I have left.”
Louisa: I have the power to help people, and I have the power to hurt people. In this case, I’ve chosen to help your papa Rich.
Richard: You don’t belong here, Ember, I’m here to save you from the grips of the devil’s work.
As a reviewer, I must keep this short and not overindulge in telling this story; I guess this could be considered another page-turning psychological thriller. The story has the good, the bad, and the very evil of people. The life Ember has experienced in New York has been more uncomfortable as being the ghost of Hallelujah Junction was normal. But Louisa steps up the game, doing things to mess with Ember’s mind and making deals with the devil. As soon as Christopher is away on assignment, everything goes to hell-in-a-handbasket. Will Louisa get away with her evil deception? What will Christopher do when he finds his wife, the love of his life, missing?
“Christopher, if you do find her—don’t bring her back here. Start a new life with her. A life that you both create. Your life is not for her. So, create one that belongs to the both of you.”
The story’s plot had me wanting to scream and cry at what is taking place. How can Ember be dealing with two evil men again—the very ones she escaped with Christopher. How far will he go to find her—will he rescue her once again—and this time, make a difference. The story is one twisted tale that kept me on the edge of my seat as the pages turn. Evil comes in many forms and faces, and so does good. A few new people will be added to this tale, ones that play vital roles. Christopher, Ember, and several others must face emotional trials and winter storms that leave such a dangerous escape from harm towards freedom.
“Let’s just focus on surviving the storm. One day at a time, remember? That’s how we live. One day at a time.”
Christopher: I want you to be happy. What will it take to make that happen?
Ember: You. I just need you to make me happy.
Ember: What about your job?
Christopher: I’ll get another job if I want. Money isn’t an issue for me, as you know. Regardless, as long as I’m with you, I’ll be happy.
Ember: And your mother? Can you really walk away from her?
Christopher: Can you walk away from Papa Rich?
Ember: It will be hard.
Christopher: And it will be hard for me. But it’s something we have in common. We won’t be the first couple to have to deal with toxic parents and figure out how to handle that. They both deserve to be in jail, and hopefully that happens.
Ember: So where do we go? Could we maybe find a place nearby? I don’t mean living off the grid, but maybe a small mountain town?
Christopher: I love that idea. A cabin with a wood stove and a carved bear out front.
“It took everything in me to not be up on that mountain waiting for their return. But at the same time, we have to move on. We can’t be held captive by them forever. They aren’t part of our story anymore.”
“No—he’s the same man. The same evil man. I just have my eyes open now. I can truly see the truth. He’s not my Papa Rich anymore. He’s Richard. He’s the Ghost Town Killer. He’s a bad, bad man and was my kidnapper. I’ve risen from the ashes of the town I helped burn down.”
“You are going to be held captive. You are going to be at the mercy of your jailer. You are going to die knowing exactly how I felt. You are the captive now. Not me. I’m free. I’m finally free.
Captive Bride: A Dark Romance (The Secret Bride Book 1)
WELCOME TO MY PRISON, MY DEAR
I am still struggling to get my breathing and heart rate under control. For me, this book was like witnessing a horrific accident where you need to look away, but you can’t make yourself do it—you just keep turning the pages. When Ms. Alta Hensley stated that this was the darkest she had written, she wasn’t lying.
As a reviewer, I must keep this short and not give anything away; I guess this could be considered a psychological thriller. The story has the good, the bad, and the very evil of people. One is innocent and naïve, but a victim, no less. One is a rule-breaker that must pay for his sins, and now he is trapped in a living nightmare. One is in control and plays judge, jury, and executioner—all in the name of the Lord’s work.
“Stay on the Path. The rules are so simple. Break the rules, and you will pay the price.”
“This isn’t about me. God spoke, and God is never wrong.”
“I’m the ghost of Hallelujah Junction.”
“There is nothing you can do. This is our forever. Fake happiness, false hope, and nothing but dark and evil.”
Warning to those who hate cliffhangers—this ends on a heart-stopping cliffhanger. Will I read the following two books, Kept Bride and Taken Bride---YES---I am too invested in this story, and I must see where it goes next.
Kept Bride: A Dark Romance (The Secret Bride Book 2)
WILL I EVER KNOW WHAT NORMAL IS SUPPOSED TO BE?
The second book in The Secret Bride trilogy is not as much a harrowing psychological thriller as the first book, Captive Bride. In many ways, it is a crueler reality than when Ember was just the Ghost of Hallelujah Junction. She goes from one prison to another, and the results are scary, vicious, and in many ways, more challenging. At least what she was used to was comfortable and her normal—but the asphalt jungle of New York City is full of the unknown.
“I think about when things were simpler, with my books and my cat, Pine Cone. I don’t want to forget like Christopher does. If I forget, it will be as if I never existed. Hallelujah Junction might be Christopher’s nightmare, but it’s all I had. It’s me. I’m nothing but the ghost of Hallelujah Junction stuck in a different kind of purgatory.”
As a reviewer, I must keep this short and not give anything away; I guess this could be considered another page-turning psychological thriller. The story has the good, the bad, and the very evil of people. Ember has no memory of life before Papa Rich and living as a ghost, accepting his word and dictates. Christopher has accepted Ember, is dedicated to her care, and that includes escaping a madman that has held them prisoner, forced them to marry, and will kill to have his way. Christopher is determined to find freedom for them both—and when the world wants to say they aren’t married—he fights back and insists they are in all ways that matter. When his mother is against Ember, he tries to keep the peace, but Ember has no peace. The wolves at the door are dressed in finery, but their bite is lethal—the fate of Christopher and Ember hangs in the balance.
Ember: “We’re married now. I know your mother says we aren’t. But I believe we are. Under God, we are. In my heart and soul, we are. How do you feel?”
Christopher: “You’re my wife. I don’t care what anyone says; you are my wife. Yes, we made wedding vows, but I made my own vow to you that has nothing to do with being married. I’m never going to leave you, Ember. I’m here for you through all of this. I’m not letting you go. I know you’re afraid I will, but I swear to you, you’re mine. My wife. My future.”
“My captive bride is finally happy. A little taste of freedom is all it takes.”
Ember: “He’s my husband.”
Louisa: “No, Amber, he isn’t.”
Ember: “I’m not going to leave Christopher. I’m sorry. I’m not.”
Louisa: “Then you’re just as bad as Richard. He may have forced you both to get married, but you are forcing it to continue. My son was a victim of your father. But you, Amber, are torturing him more than Richard ever did.”
“I relate to Alice. I, too, have gone down my own rabbit hole. I’m in a Wonderland of my own. A mad, mad world where everything is foreign and different. But I’m coming out of it stronger. I have to believe that.”
Warning to those who hate cliffhangers—this ends on another heart-stopping cliffhanger. I have already preordered the last book, Taken Bride. I am too invested in this story, and I must see where it finally ends for Christopher and Ember.
Taken Bride: A Dark Romance (The Secret Bride Book 3)
IT’S HOW OUR DEMENTED LOVE STORY ENDS
The third and final book in The Secret Bride trilogy is a psychological thriller roller coaster ride. What is eviler than a demented mad man who holds a woman as his captive daughter, forces her to marry, and kills those who violate his terms? A wealthy socialite mother who uses her wealth and power to manipulate people and help two evil men, all in the name of protecting her son. So which is worse? They are equally as disturbing.
The final story gives closure to this tale—for both Christopher and Ember. They may have been brought together under duress, literally chained together, forced to recite wedding vows and act as they were married—but fate plays a more significant role—because love wins—and yes, dear reader, you get the coveted happily ever after ending that Christopher and Ember deserve. It is always wonderful when good wins over evil.
“She’s led me into the eye of the storm, and the hurricane of emotions steals what little bit of sanity I have left.”
Louisa: I have the power to help people, and I have the power to hurt people. In this case, I’ve chosen to help your papa Rich.
Richard: You don’t belong here, Ember, I’m here to save you from the grips of the devil’s work.
As a reviewer, I must keep this short and not overindulge in telling this story; I guess this could be considered another page-turning psychological thriller. The story has the good, the bad, and the very evil of people. The life Ember has experienced in New York has been more uncomfortable as being the ghost of Hallelujah Junction was normal. But Louisa steps up the game, doing things to mess with Ember’s mind and making deals with the devil. As soon as Christopher is away on assignment, everything goes to hell-in-a-handbasket. Will Louisa get away with her evil deception? What will Christopher do when he finds his wife, the love of his life, missing?
“Christopher, if you do find her—don’t bring her back here. Start a new life with her. A life that you both create. Your life is not for her. So, create one that belongs to the both of you.”
The story’s plot had me wanting to scream and cry at what is taking place. How can Ember be dealing with two evil men again—the very ones she escaped with Christopher. How far will he go to find her—will he rescue her once again—and this time, make a difference. The story is one twisted tale that kept me on the edge of my seat as the pages turn. Evil comes in many forms and faces, and so does good. A few new people will be added to this tale, ones that play vital roles. Christopher, Ember, and several others must face emotional trials and winter storms that leave such a dangerous escape from harm towards freedom.
“Let’s just focus on surviving the storm. One day at a time, remember? That’s how we live. One day at a time.”
Christopher: I want you to be happy. What will it take to make that happen?
Ember: You. I just need you to make me happy.
Ember: What about your job?
Christopher: I’ll get another job if I want. Money isn’t an issue for me, as you know. Regardless, as long as I’m with you, I’ll be happy.
Ember: And your mother? Can you really walk away from her?
Christopher: Can you walk away from Papa Rich?
Ember: It will be hard.
Christopher: And it will be hard for me. But it’s something we have in common. We won’t be the first couple to have to deal with toxic parents and figure out how to handle that. They both deserve to be in jail, and hopefully that happens.
Ember: So where do we go? Could we maybe find a place nearby? I don’t mean living off the grid, but maybe a small mountain town?
Christopher: I love that idea. A cabin with a wood stove and a carved bear out front.
“It took everything in me to not be up on that mountain waiting for their return. But at the same time, we have to move on. We can’t be held captive by them forever. They aren’t part of our story anymore.”
“No—he’s the same man. The same evil man. I just have my eyes open now. I can truly see the truth. He’s not my Papa Rich anymore. He’s Richard. He’s the Ghost Town Killer. He’s a bad, bad man and was my kidnapper. I’ve risen from the ashes of the town I helped burn down.”
“You are going to be held captive. You are going to be at the mercy of your jailer. You are going to die knowing exactly how I felt. You are the captive now. Not me. I’m free. I’m finally free.
June 18, 2022
My first from this author and it's a good one! Alta Hensley writes a very intense first part (book 1: Captive Bride) of this trilogy that grabbed me right from the first few pages. Her tale of a madman who 'adopts' a 5-year-old girl and keeps her captive for 20 long years in a ghost town in the desert of Nevada blew me away. The beginning is full of wild notions as Papa Rich clearly is a crazy person who has no tolerance for those who trespass away from the tourist area where this ghost town lies. I was intrigued as to why Ember had to remain hidden and how she seemed to be ok with what Papa Rich did, even though it was horrific. And trust me, it was. The Stockholm Syndrome is alive and well within the walls of their 'home' and when a new trespasser dares cross Papa Rich, Ember's world most definitely will not remain the same.
I have to admit that I was riveted by this storyline. The cruelty forced upon our newcomer, Christopher, is unreal. I liked how he took his anger toward Richard and found a way to survive his horrible existence, chained to a wall in the cellar. Ember is a true light in all of this darkness and I truly understood how Christopher learned to love her and accepted his new future with her as his new bride. Their union brings out a new person in Christopher and helps fuel the need to conjure up a new plan of escape.
As the 2nd book (Kept Bride) captures Christopher and Ember's new future together, there is much more evil lurking close by than just that of Papa Rich and his sidekick, Scarecrow. Christopher's mother becomes a force to be reckoned with as her acceptance of Ember never materializes. Ember's eventual 'escape' leads to a shocking showdown between Christopher and his socialite mother and what follows in book 3 (Taken Bride) is where to me the story sadly kind of fell out of favor for me.
Not to say I didn't enjoy the last segment of this story but it didn't have the intensity that the first two had. I found Ember's love of Holly and Violet almost ridiculous since she barely knew them. In addition, things fell into place a bit too easily for me, the true man-to-man battle that Christopher so desperately wanted (as did I) between him and Richard and Scarecrow never happening. I felt as if we deserved that knock-down, dragged-out kind of fight and I feel a bit cheated even though everything turned out the way it should have as the last pages were read.
Overall, I enjoyed this trilogy but needed just a bit more to prevent me from skimming pages in the last 3rd of the collection. It's well-written and flowed well up to that last part so there's no doubt I wouldn't hesitate to read this author again.
In the end, Captive Bride gets a big 5 stars.
Kept Bride gets a 4 and Taken Bride gets a 3 from me.
And overall, the Secret Bride: The Complete Trilogy gets a solid 4 stars.
I have to admit that I was riveted by this storyline. The cruelty forced upon our newcomer, Christopher, is unreal. I liked how he took his anger toward Richard and found a way to survive his horrible existence, chained to a wall in the cellar. Ember is a true light in all of this darkness and I truly understood how Christopher learned to love her and accepted his new future with her as his new bride. Their union brings out a new person in Christopher and helps fuel the need to conjure up a new plan of escape.
As the 2nd book (Kept Bride) captures Christopher and Ember's new future together, there is much more evil lurking close by than just that of Papa Rich and his sidekick, Scarecrow. Christopher's mother becomes a force to be reckoned with as her acceptance of Ember never materializes. Ember's eventual 'escape' leads to a shocking showdown between Christopher and his socialite mother and what follows in book 3 (Taken Bride) is where to me the story sadly kind of fell out of favor for me.
Not to say I didn't enjoy the last segment of this story but it didn't have the intensity that the first two had. I found Ember's love of Holly and Violet almost ridiculous since she barely knew them. In addition, things fell into place a bit too easily for me, the true man-to-man battle that Christopher so desperately wanted (as did I) between him and Richard and Scarecrow never happening. I felt as if we deserved that knock-down, dragged-out kind of fight and I feel a bit cheated even though everything turned out the way it should have as the last pages were read.
Overall, I enjoyed this trilogy but needed just a bit more to prevent me from skimming pages in the last 3rd of the collection. It's well-written and flowed well up to that last part so there's no doubt I wouldn't hesitate to read this author again.
In the end, Captive Bride gets a big 5 stars.
Kept Bride gets a 4 and Taken Bride gets a 3 from me.
And overall, the Secret Bride: The Complete Trilogy gets a solid 4 stars.
June 18, 2022
Brought to Hallelujah Junction when she was five years old after being found by the side of the road by Richard (aka Papa Rich), Ember doesn't know anything different about the world she has existed in for the past 20 years. Hiding away from tourists who have come to take a look at the abandoned mining town, she was once spotted and gained the nickname of the ghost of Hallelujah Junction. She only sees Papa Rich and his friend Scarecrow, whilst watching the world go by from the window in the old school house.
Visiting Hallelujah Junction to gain photos for the Rolling Stones magazine, Christopher, explored past the trespass signs to gain the best photos. Gaining him a blow to the head and chained to a cellar for his trouble. Finding Papa Rich has taken him captive and wishes to force him to marry his 'daughter' Ember. Astonished by the brainwashing she has endured over the years as she doesn't question the madness of it all and will do anything to keep the peace and stop Papa Rich from handing out punishments.
As they navigate forced marriage, there is no doubting that they are from different worlds but could they ever feel more for each other?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Visiting Hallelujah Junction to gain photos for the Rolling Stones magazine, Christopher, explored past the trespass signs to gain the best photos. Gaining him a blow to the head and chained to a cellar for his trouble. Finding Papa Rich has taken him captive and wishes to force him to marry his 'daughter' Ember. Astonished by the brainwashing she has endured over the years as she doesn't question the madness of it all and will do anything to keep the peace and stop Papa Rich from handing out punishments.
As they navigate forced marriage, there is no doubting that they are from different worlds but could they ever feel more for each other?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 30, 2022
★ “Hello, Devil. Nice to meet you.” - A thriller read ★
—>>> This is one of those stories which make you question what goes on behind the doors and walls. It has creepy horror/dark psychological elements which will burrow under your skin when you meet Ember and realize the scope of her upbringing, which is slowly pieced together throughout all three stories and witnessed via Christopher’s POV, whose world clashes unrepentantly with Ember’s. The building of trust and love was fragile in the beginning but strengthened organically due to challenges orchestrated to steer them back to the way they were before they had met. I was waiting for a larger involvement from a certain character from Christopher’s past, but I did like how everything worked out in the end. This volume includes Captive Bride, Kept Bride, and Taken Bride. A thriller read!
—>>> This is one of those stories which make you question what goes on behind the doors and walls. It has creepy horror/dark psychological elements which will burrow under your skin when you meet Ember and realize the scope of her upbringing, which is slowly pieced together throughout all three stories and witnessed via Christopher’s POV, whose world clashes unrepentantly with Ember’s. The building of trust and love was fragile in the beginning but strengthened organically due to challenges orchestrated to steer them back to the way they were before they had met. I was waiting for a larger involvement from a certain character from Christopher’s past, but I did like how everything worked out in the end. This volume includes Captive Bride, Kept Bride, and Taken Bride. A thriller read!
June 21, 2022
The entire trilogy in one book had me unable to put this down. I may have already read the first two books in the trilogy but I started from the beginning because there is no way you just can't. I devoured it.
June 24, 2022
Perfect boxset. Ember and Christophers trilogy was addicting beginning to end, with all the ups and down it definitely kept me on edge in the best was possible
June 19, 2022
Highly intense and gripping trilogy!
Christopher and Ember’s story is dark, tragic, engaging and consuming.
Their book and the characters that share these pages are so intriguing, psychotic, alluring and undeniably passionate. Even though circumstances forced their union Christopher and Ember discover a love stronger then the evil they endured. This trilogy fascinated me and the romantic characters captivated the pages.
I must say the villains made my skin crawl, but still I couldn’t put this book down. I was so engrossed with these characters and storyline.
Wonderfully written Alta👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Christopher and Ember’s story is dark, tragic, engaging and consuming.
Their book and the characters that share these pages are so intriguing, psychotic, alluring and undeniably passionate. Even though circumstances forced their union Christopher and Ember discover a love stronger then the evil they endured. This trilogy fascinated me and the romantic characters captivated the pages.
I must say the villains made my skin crawl, but still I couldn’t put this book down. I was so engrossed with these characters and storyline.
Wonderfully written Alta👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
June 10, 2022
Secret Bride is a fabulous dark and twisty love story that you will fall in love with. I loved this boxset so much. This will be one you will want to binge read from start to finish and feel everything that is Ember and Christopher. I could not get enough of what Alta Hensley brings to the pages. Go and one click this set now and enjoy all 3 books in one place today.
Captive Bride
If you like dark and twisty love stories then you will love Captive Bride. This was so good. I was glued to the pages the entire time so sucked in by Ember, Christopher and Papa Rich. I love how Ember brings the light into Christopher's world after everything he is put through. There is just something twisty beautiful that grows from Ember and Christopher as they work together as newly minted husband and wife. I love how Christopher opens Embers eyes and shows her there could be away out of all the madness she has come to be accustomed to. Far warning there is a cliffy so be prepared to yell at Alta just a little as everything starts to really go down. This is a psychological thriller, dark and twisty love story that you need to sink your teeth in.
Kept Bride
Oh my.......This book is everything I was hoping for and more for being book 2 of the Secret Bride series. Kept Bride will take you on a ride and not let go. I honestly do not know how I'm going to function much until the next book comes out. I loved every moment that us Christopher and Ember. I wanted to scream at Christopher at times for his mother dearest. Once you get a little taste of this you will not be able to stop. I want to scream and yell at Alta Hensley right now for this nice cliffy. Oh those feels you get with this one.
Taken Bride
Taken Bride is perfection in this book 3 of The Secret Bride series. I loved where it takes off after Kept Bride. I love how everything finally comes out when it comes to mama dearest. You are going to get hooked from the very start and will not be able to put this down. Ember is such a fighter and is willing to do what ever it takes to keep Christopher safe. This is one heck of a rollercoaster and so worth everything the first two books put us through. I love the connection between Christopher and Ember and how they never give up on each other. We get the dirty, the twisted and a touch of sweet when it comes to this one. I have I forgot to mention there are some little twists that will come along the way. I applaud you Alta Hensley with this book and series. I'm so in love with it and what you gave us with Christopher and Ember. This book is everything you are looking for in the conclusion of Christopher and Ember.
Captive Bride
If you like dark and twisty love stories then you will love Captive Bride. This was so good. I was glued to the pages the entire time so sucked in by Ember, Christopher and Papa Rich. I love how Ember brings the light into Christopher's world after everything he is put through. There is just something twisty beautiful that grows from Ember and Christopher as they work together as newly minted husband and wife. I love how Christopher opens Embers eyes and shows her there could be away out of all the madness she has come to be accustomed to. Far warning there is a cliffy so be prepared to yell at Alta just a little as everything starts to really go down. This is a psychological thriller, dark and twisty love story that you need to sink your teeth in.
Kept Bride
Oh my.......This book is everything I was hoping for and more for being book 2 of the Secret Bride series. Kept Bride will take you on a ride and not let go. I honestly do not know how I'm going to function much until the next book comes out. I loved every moment that us Christopher and Ember. I wanted to scream at Christopher at times for his mother dearest. Once you get a little taste of this you will not be able to stop. I want to scream and yell at Alta Hensley right now for this nice cliffy. Oh those feels you get with this one.
Taken Bride
Taken Bride is perfection in this book 3 of The Secret Bride series. I loved where it takes off after Kept Bride. I love how everything finally comes out when it comes to mama dearest. You are going to get hooked from the very start and will not be able to put this down. Ember is such a fighter and is willing to do what ever it takes to keep Christopher safe. This is one heck of a rollercoaster and so worth everything the first two books put us through. I love the connection between Christopher and Ember and how they never give up on each other. We get the dirty, the twisted and a touch of sweet when it comes to this one. I have I forgot to mention there are some little twists that will come along the way. I applaud you Alta Hensley with this book and series. I'm so in love with it and what you gave us with Christopher and Ember. This book is everything you are looking for in the conclusion of Christopher and Ember.
June 7, 2022
Oh this was so good! The characters were amazing and the story had me glued to the page. Its Intense and full of danger and thrills. My heart was beating fast and I really felt for the h&h. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I love this author! This is a box set including captive bride, kept bride and taken bride. Absolutely delicious and dark romance!
June 20, 2022
What a gripping storyline this trilogy had incredible characters Ember and Christopher. They developed as the story unfolded. It was a page turner, gritty, dark, suspenseful, dramatic, intriguing, captivating and passionate. A thrilling read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2022
Dark psychological trilogy in one great read. This is Ember and Christopher’s story is filled with loads of drama, suspense and emotion. Great characters with lots of depth and plenty of twists and turns. The story draws you in from beginning to end. I loved it.
June 23, 2022
A set that you'll want to binge read. If read at night, it'll keep you up until you finish. If you like your stories to be messed up but have an hea then this is for you. There are many obstacles, twists, and turns. It is a difficult read due to the barrage of emotions but worth it.
June 20, 2022
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is the complete Trilogy in one book. This book includes:
Captive Bride:
This is a dark psychological thriller. It might hold some triggers for some. In this book we meet Ember. She is a girl that lives in Hallelujah Junction with her father Papa Rich and a man named Scarecrow lives up the mountain from them. Those are the only two people that Ember ever sees!! She is allowed to travel tunnels and go to the old school house but their home with electricity is hidden behind the schoolhouse and no one can see it. This place is an old mining town and everyone that once lived there left in a hurry, even leaving their belongings behind and no one knows why. But there is a legend about the ghost in the schoolhouse and it is quiet possible that Ember is the ghost people are thinking their seeing. However, no one is allowed to be there in that town and her father, Papa Rich is the ranger assigned to keep people out. What they do not know is that if they get off the wrong trails and there is a price to be paid and Ember usually witnesses them getting taken care of. It is a job that Papa Rich takes very seriously and he also protects Ember and keeps her hidden away. This girl has never been in the outside world that she can remember. She has only ever known Papa Rich and where she lives now. One fateful day though there is a very handsome guy with a huge camera that has wondered where he isn't suppose to be to take photos for Rolling Stone of the ghost town and he is trying to catch the ghost of the old schoolhouse. However Papa Rich catches him trespassing and the next thing Christopher knows is he wakes up chained to the wall in the cellar of the house that Ember and Papa Rich live in. He has decided that at twenty five Ember needs to get married and Christopher is the one she is to marry. Its a messed up twisted way to meet your husband. I have to stop right there for I don't want to give anything away but I fell in love with these character's and this story is twisted and just crazy!! I loved every second of it though and I couldn't wait to get to the next book to see what happened. If you love dark captive books then you are going to love this one.
Kept Bride:
This one picks up right where Captive Bride left off too and I so could not lay it down. Ember and Christopher have escaped from their life in Hallelujah Junction and are headed back to his home in New York with his mother. And can I just say that I can not stand Louisa Davenport!!! Oh my gosh, she might be Christopher's mother but she is really one high and mighty socialite piece of work!!! Christopher knows that this is going to be hard for Ember as all she has ever known has burnt to the ground and they just found out that Papa Rich might just have survived the fire they saw him running into. However Christopher is determined to not let Ember ever thank about that man again and he refuses to give him any of his worry either. He knows that she is going to have major adjustments to get use to being in New York and not stuck in a house alone never seeing anyone but Scarecrow. Now they are being hounded by the police and reporters and Christopher is going to keep them all a bay and stay married to Ember. But his mother is not a fan of Ember and she sure does everything in her power not to make her feel welcome. This is where you see how strong the love is between Christopher and Ember, you see how protective they are of each other. But strange things are happening and Ember just might be losing her mind or someone might just be helping her to fall over the edge. While this one is not quiet as dark as Captive Bride it is so good and the ending just about had me falling off the edge of my seat!!! To say I need Taken Bride in my hands right now is a understatement. I can't wait to see how things play out. You guys are going to love this series!!!
Taken Bride:
This is the conclusion we have all been waiting on. I was so happy to be back with Ember and Christian. I don't really want to tell you anything about the story that will spoil it for you. I read this book in no time and I feel like if I say much of anything I am going to ruin it for someone. I was holding my breath for a little bit but then I realized that Christopher has this and everything will be ok. You just need to grab this book and dive in. I promise it is the conclusion you have been wanting and needing.
This is the complete Trilogy in one book. This book includes:
Captive Bride:
This is a dark psychological thriller. It might hold some triggers for some. In this book we meet Ember. She is a girl that lives in Hallelujah Junction with her father Papa Rich and a man named Scarecrow lives up the mountain from them. Those are the only two people that Ember ever sees!! She is allowed to travel tunnels and go to the old school house but their home with electricity is hidden behind the schoolhouse and no one can see it. This place is an old mining town and everyone that once lived there left in a hurry, even leaving their belongings behind and no one knows why. But there is a legend about the ghost in the schoolhouse and it is quiet possible that Ember is the ghost people are thinking their seeing. However, no one is allowed to be there in that town and her father, Papa Rich is the ranger assigned to keep people out. What they do not know is that if they get off the wrong trails and there is a price to be paid and Ember usually witnesses them getting taken care of. It is a job that Papa Rich takes very seriously and he also protects Ember and keeps her hidden away. This girl has never been in the outside world that she can remember. She has only ever known Papa Rich and where she lives now. One fateful day though there is a very handsome guy with a huge camera that has wondered where he isn't suppose to be to take photos for Rolling Stone of the ghost town and he is trying to catch the ghost of the old schoolhouse. However Papa Rich catches him trespassing and the next thing Christopher knows is he wakes up chained to the wall in the cellar of the house that Ember and Papa Rich live in. He has decided that at twenty five Ember needs to get married and Christopher is the one she is to marry. Its a messed up twisted way to meet your husband. I have to stop right there for I don't want to give anything away but I fell in love with these character's and this story is twisted and just crazy!! I loved every second of it though and I couldn't wait to get to the next book to see what happened. If you love dark captive books then you are going to love this one.
Kept Bride:
This one picks up right where Captive Bride left off too and I so could not lay it down. Ember and Christopher have escaped from their life in Hallelujah Junction and are headed back to his home in New York with his mother. And can I just say that I can not stand Louisa Davenport!!! Oh my gosh, she might be Christopher's mother but she is really one high and mighty socialite piece of work!!! Christopher knows that this is going to be hard for Ember as all she has ever known has burnt to the ground and they just found out that Papa Rich might just have survived the fire they saw him running into. However Christopher is determined to not let Ember ever thank about that man again and he refuses to give him any of his worry either. He knows that she is going to have major adjustments to get use to being in New York and not stuck in a house alone never seeing anyone but Scarecrow. Now they are being hounded by the police and reporters and Christopher is going to keep them all a bay and stay married to Ember. But his mother is not a fan of Ember and she sure does everything in her power not to make her feel welcome. This is where you see how strong the love is between Christopher and Ember, you see how protective they are of each other. But strange things are happening and Ember just might be losing her mind or someone might just be helping her to fall over the edge. While this one is not quiet as dark as Captive Bride it is so good and the ending just about had me falling off the edge of my seat!!! To say I need Taken Bride in my hands right now is a understatement. I can't wait to see how things play out. You guys are going to love this series!!!
Taken Bride:
This is the conclusion we have all been waiting on. I was so happy to be back with Ember and Christian. I don't really want to tell you anything about the story that will spoil it for you. I read this book in no time and I feel like if I say much of anything I am going to ruin it for someone. I was holding my breath for a little bit but then I realized that Christopher has this and everything will be ok. You just need to grab this book and dive in. I promise it is the conclusion you have been wanting and needing.
June 20, 2022
Book 1 - Captive Bride:
OMG! This story had me captivated and holding my breath with each and every page turn as this has everything including a ghost story, mystery, psychological thrills and suspense and eventually romance. Talk about being in the wrong place at the wrong time, well that is exactly what Richard finds out is his fate. However, on the flip side sometimes fate allows things, even bad things to happen when two people are meant to be together. For Ember, the ghost of Hallelujah Junction she is surprised to find out that instead of doing what Papa Rich normally does, she finds out that Richard is to become her reluctant bridegroom. Stockholm syndrome, true love or just two people trying to live and work together to survive, Richard and Ember become a force to reckon with. There is a huge cliffhanger but let me reassure you, it is important and well worth the wait to find out what happens in the next books in this series, Kept Bride. Do not miss this fantastic and addictive story by a wonderful and masterful writer.
Book 2 - Kept Bride:
Kept Bride begins as Ember is transported to New York City after she and Richard escape from Hallelujah Junction. Unfortunately, as the former Ghost of Hallelujah Junction, it seems that she has merely traded one prison for another as she finds herself unhappy and isolated in her new unfamiliar prison in a city where no one seems to be friendly as Richard tries to get his life back to normal. While Papa Rich was her original tormenter, it turns out that Richard's mother is just as sick and diabolical as he was, well minus the serial killer part. Another cliffhanger that will leave you biting your fingernails until the final and conclusive Book Taken Bride is released.
Book 3 - Taken Bride:
OMG! Finally the conclusion to this fabulous series but if you think you will get all the answers to your questions, Ms. Hensley provides more questions along with some answers until the climatic, gasping conclusion. Ember and Richard find themselves fighting for their marriage. While at times Ember has been made to feel that she is losing her mind, we find that all her fears of Papa Rich and Scarecrow finding her actually happen. Thanks to Richard's evil mother who does the unthinkable and actually brings the two psychotic men to Ember and help them convince her the only way to save Richard is to go willingly with them. Throughout this rocky and climatic conclusion to this wonderful series doubt is placed within your mind that maybe there won't be a HEA for anyone involved in this story but thankfully, we see the happy ending(s) we hoped we would finally get. Don't miss one word of any of the books in this series because they show a wonderful story of hope, love and how finding the right person, no matter how you meet can make life worth living.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
OMG! This story had me captivated and holding my breath with each and every page turn as this has everything including a ghost story, mystery, psychological thrills and suspense and eventually romance. Talk about being in the wrong place at the wrong time, well that is exactly what Richard finds out is his fate. However, on the flip side sometimes fate allows things, even bad things to happen when two people are meant to be together. For Ember, the ghost of Hallelujah Junction she is surprised to find out that instead of doing what Papa Rich normally does, she finds out that Richard is to become her reluctant bridegroom. Stockholm syndrome, true love or just two people trying to live and work together to survive, Richard and Ember become a force to reckon with. There is a huge cliffhanger but let me reassure you, it is important and well worth the wait to find out what happens in the next books in this series, Kept Bride. Do not miss this fantastic and addictive story by a wonderful and masterful writer.
Book 2 - Kept Bride:
Kept Bride begins as Ember is transported to New York City after she and Richard escape from Hallelujah Junction. Unfortunately, as the former Ghost of Hallelujah Junction, it seems that she has merely traded one prison for another as she finds herself unhappy and isolated in her new unfamiliar prison in a city where no one seems to be friendly as Richard tries to get his life back to normal. While Papa Rich was her original tormenter, it turns out that Richard's mother is just as sick and diabolical as he was, well minus the serial killer part. Another cliffhanger that will leave you biting your fingernails until the final and conclusive Book Taken Bride is released.
Book 3 - Taken Bride:
OMG! Finally the conclusion to this fabulous series but if you think you will get all the answers to your questions, Ms. Hensley provides more questions along with some answers until the climatic, gasping conclusion. Ember and Richard find themselves fighting for their marriage. While at times Ember has been made to feel that she is losing her mind, we find that all her fears of Papa Rich and Scarecrow finding her actually happen. Thanks to Richard's evil mother who does the unthinkable and actually brings the two psychotic men to Ember and help them convince her the only way to save Richard is to go willingly with them. Throughout this rocky and climatic conclusion to this wonderful series doubt is placed within your mind that maybe there won't be a HEA for anyone involved in this story but thankfully, we see the happy ending(s) we hoped we would finally get. Don't miss one word of any of the books in this series because they show a wonderful story of hope, love and how finding the right person, no matter how you meet can make life worth living.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 22, 2022
The Secret Bride- Complete Trilogy
Kindle Unlimited: No
Stand-alone: Yes*
Author: Alta Hensley
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spiciness Rating: 5/5 🌶
POV: First Person Dual Perspective
Main Couple: Christopher and Ember
Trope(s): Age-Gap, Forced Marriage/Proximity, Dark Psychological Suspense
This trilogy is one crazy train of a ride down a deep, dark rabbit hole. Alta Hensley writes dark psychological thriller romance and this book is all that and more. This book is going a total mind trip and had my attention from the get go. I was so drawn into this deserted town and this Demented Love Story. Although, forced to marry, the time spent in captivity together creates a bond no one else could possibly understand. A bond that no one can break, but they will try.
Captive Bride:
We begin our journey in an abandoned mining town in Nevada. Everyone has left town, including Ember’s mother. Papa Rich, the ranger assigned to the area, takes her in.
Twenty years later, When Christopher arrives in town on assignment, Ember fears he will meet the fate of all the other unlucky tourists. Instead, Papa Rich takes him prisoner.
The only way out is for Christopher and Ember to work together but, she has spent so many years being brainwashed. Once, they are wed and Papa Rich really begins to unravel mentally, Christopher knows they must get away.
Kept Bride:
Christopher and Ember have escaped Papa Rich. After extensive questioning by local and FBI authorities they leave Nevada and head to New York with Christopher’s mother.
But, they learn Richard isn’t dead and hasn’t been located. Christopher’s family and friends have believed all this time he was dead, just as Richard wanted them too. And, his mother is none to pleased at having an extra guest.
Acclimating to “real life” is a complete struggle for Ember. Especially, when Christopher returns to his previous life at Rolling Stone.
Christopher feels she needs to erase a Richard from her memories and thoughts to move on, but that is easier said than done.
Even as Ember attempts to move forward her past keeps showing its ugly face. And, then the worst happens when she comes face to face with it once again.
And, Christopher finds his world imploding once again with revelations from his mother…
Taken Bride:
Ember finds herself back in an old settler’s town. Hiding from the world once again. She has left with Richard and Scarecrow to set Christopher free.
Christopher is beside himself with worry for her, fury at his mother and desperation to find Ember.
Ember resigns herself to live with Scarecrow and Papa Rich. Christopher is on a mission to find her.
And, when he does she isn’t alone. Their demented love story just grew a new branch of crazy.
With the help of a mysterious mountain man, finally escaping Scarecrow and Richard maybe possible.
Kindle Unlimited: No
Stand-alone: Yes*
Author: Alta Hensley
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spiciness Rating: 5/5 🌶
POV: First Person Dual Perspective
Main Couple: Christopher and Ember
Trope(s): Age-Gap, Forced Marriage/Proximity, Dark Psychological Suspense
This trilogy is one crazy train of a ride down a deep, dark rabbit hole. Alta Hensley writes dark psychological thriller romance and this book is all that and more. This book is going a total mind trip and had my attention from the get go. I was so drawn into this deserted town and this Demented Love Story. Although, forced to marry, the time spent in captivity together creates a bond no one else could possibly understand. A bond that no one can break, but they will try.
Captive Bride:
We begin our journey in an abandoned mining town in Nevada. Everyone has left town, including Ember’s mother. Papa Rich, the ranger assigned to the area, takes her in.
Twenty years later, When Christopher arrives in town on assignment, Ember fears he will meet the fate of all the other unlucky tourists. Instead, Papa Rich takes him prisoner.
The only way out is for Christopher and Ember to work together but, she has spent so many years being brainwashed. Once, they are wed and Papa Rich really begins to unravel mentally, Christopher knows they must get away.
Kept Bride:
Christopher and Ember have escaped Papa Rich. After extensive questioning by local and FBI authorities they leave Nevada and head to New York with Christopher’s mother.
But, they learn Richard isn’t dead and hasn’t been located. Christopher’s family and friends have believed all this time he was dead, just as Richard wanted them too. And, his mother is none to pleased at having an extra guest.
Acclimating to “real life” is a complete struggle for Ember. Especially, when Christopher returns to his previous life at Rolling Stone.
Christopher feels she needs to erase a Richard from her memories and thoughts to move on, but that is easier said than done.
Even as Ember attempts to move forward her past keeps showing its ugly face. And, then the worst happens when she comes face to face with it once again.
And, Christopher finds his world imploding once again with revelations from his mother…
Taken Bride:
Ember finds herself back in an old settler’s town. Hiding from the world once again. She has left with Richard and Scarecrow to set Christopher free.
Christopher is beside himself with worry for her, fury at his mother and desperation to find Ember.
Ember resigns herself to live with Scarecrow and Papa Rich. Christopher is on a mission to find her.
And, when he does she isn’t alone. Their demented love story just grew a new branch of crazy.
With the help of a mysterious mountain man, finally escaping Scarecrow and Richard maybe possible.
August 15, 2022
Whether you've read each individual book in Alta Hensley's Secret Bride series as they were published or you've been waiting on them to be in a box set, you won't want to pass up the opportunity to grab this epic series for your own personal library! You won’t regret it!! This author is a creative and masterful storyteller. This trilogy will give you the best of both worlds, spice and plot.
Captive Bride:
OMG! This story had me captivated and holding my breath with every page turn, as it had everything, including a ghost story, mystery, psychological thrills and suspense and eventually romance. Abandoned by her mother at the age of five, Ember is rescued and raised by a Park Ranger. He raises her secretly, sternly and obedient to his and God’s laws. Together for almost 20 years, they lived in almost total isolation. One day a strong, virile young man, who was taking photographs, strayed too close to Ember’s secret home. The Ranger knocked him out and chained him in the basement. His ultimate goal was to coerce Christopher into marrying Ember. There is a huge cliffhanger at the end, but let me reassure you, it is important and well worth the wait, to find out what happens in the next two books. Do not miss this fantastic and addictive story.
Kept Bride:
This story started with Christopher and Ember’s new life together. This was an absolute, phycological mind game that continues to be played. Things are a lot more complicated and dangerous than they seem. Christopher's mother is a force to be reckoned with and she does not accept Ember into the family. This was an enticing and intriguing story and again it ends with a cliffhanger.
Taken Bride:
After their marriage and ultimate escape, Christopher and Ember go to New York to live with his mother until he can get his business booming again. But Ember’s mother-in-law has never approved or accepted her. She is determined to save her son from this totally unacceptable woman he brought home. There is such drama, angst and a huge rollercoaster of emotions that I went through while reading this one. The conclusion to Christopher and Ember's story is just phenomenal.
If you are looking for a happy little love tale, these stories are not for you lol. Don't miss one word in any of the books in this series because they show a wonderful story of hope and love. How finding the right person, no matter how you meet, can make life worth living. I was not disappointed by this series at all!! I highly recommend reading it!!
Captive Bride:
OMG! This story had me captivated and holding my breath with every page turn, as it had everything, including a ghost story, mystery, psychological thrills and suspense and eventually romance. Abandoned by her mother at the age of five, Ember is rescued and raised by a Park Ranger. He raises her secretly, sternly and obedient to his and God’s laws. Together for almost 20 years, they lived in almost total isolation. One day a strong, virile young man, who was taking photographs, strayed too close to Ember’s secret home. The Ranger knocked him out and chained him in the basement. His ultimate goal was to coerce Christopher into marrying Ember. There is a huge cliffhanger at the end, but let me reassure you, it is important and well worth the wait, to find out what happens in the next two books. Do not miss this fantastic and addictive story.
Kept Bride:
This story started with Christopher and Ember’s new life together. This was an absolute, phycological mind game that continues to be played. Things are a lot more complicated and dangerous than they seem. Christopher's mother is a force to be reckoned with and she does not accept Ember into the family. This was an enticing and intriguing story and again it ends with a cliffhanger.
Taken Bride:
After their marriage and ultimate escape, Christopher and Ember go to New York to live with his mother until he can get his business booming again. But Ember’s mother-in-law has never approved or accepted her. She is determined to save her son from this totally unacceptable woman he brought home. There is such drama, angst and a huge rollercoaster of emotions that I went through while reading this one. The conclusion to Christopher and Ember's story is just phenomenal.
If you are looking for a happy little love tale, these stories are not for you lol. Don't miss one word in any of the books in this series because they show a wonderful story of hope and love. How finding the right person, no matter how you meet, can make life worth living. I was not disappointed by this series at all!! I highly recommend reading it!!
June 22, 2022
4.5*
Captive Bride - After the last couple of years, I didn't really want to be reading anything overly heavy, so I was a bit concerned when I started this story. Thankfully, it went on to become more suspenseful and almost thriller-like rather than dark. I found it surprisingly effective for this story and ended enjoying it more than I anticipated. Ember is very childlike, as you would expect in her circumstances, and Christopher wasn't just a cookie cutter Prince Charming, but someone that had bouts of anger and hopelessness.
Kept Bride - The beginning was such an emotional powerhouse that the middle section had a lot to live up to and while it has to also set the scene for the conclusion, this section is just as strong and emotional. Christopher and Ember are trying to adjust to freedom, but to paraphrase - some are more free than others. Christopher adjusts quite well to being back, but of course, he had a lifetime of memories to help him. Ember is in a totally new world where the only familiar thing is Christopher, who is happily off resuming his career. Ember starts noticing things that give lie to her safety, but is she still mentally adjusting, or is this a a case of gaslighting for someone else's purposes? An extremely absorbing read that is psychologically terrifying.
Taken Bride - I found the conclusion really hard to review. I found myself loving the previous books, even though at times I didn't want to, and expected this book to bring tons of emotion, drama and twists. Which it absolutely delivers....until it doesn't. The conclusion starts off wonderfully, with Christopher discovering what happened and vowing to find her and give her no reason to leave again. However, once Christopher found Ember the story almost stopped making sense for me. Why were the others so against Ember leaving? Who's the mystery guy who's just decided to keep watch and protect them, who lives far enough away that no-one's seen his house, but close enough that he seems to be with them every day? I didn't expect to like this trilogy as much as I have and I'm disappointed that instead of ending on a high note with a band, it ends on a bit of whimper.
It did take me a bit to really get into the story and I can see that book wouldn't be to everyone's tastes, but I enjoyed it.
Captive Bride - After the last couple of years, I didn't really want to be reading anything overly heavy, so I was a bit concerned when I started this story. Thankfully, it went on to become more suspenseful and almost thriller-like rather than dark. I found it surprisingly effective for this story and ended enjoying it more than I anticipated. Ember is very childlike, as you would expect in her circumstances, and Christopher wasn't just a cookie cutter Prince Charming, but someone that had bouts of anger and hopelessness.
Kept Bride - The beginning was such an emotional powerhouse that the middle section had a lot to live up to and while it has to also set the scene for the conclusion, this section is just as strong and emotional. Christopher and Ember are trying to adjust to freedom, but to paraphrase - some are more free than others. Christopher adjusts quite well to being back, but of course, he had a lifetime of memories to help him. Ember is in a totally new world where the only familiar thing is Christopher, who is happily off resuming his career. Ember starts noticing things that give lie to her safety, but is she still mentally adjusting, or is this a a case of gaslighting for someone else's purposes? An extremely absorbing read that is psychologically terrifying.
Taken Bride - I found the conclusion really hard to review. I found myself loving the previous books, even though at times I didn't want to, and expected this book to bring tons of emotion, drama and twists. Which it absolutely delivers....until it doesn't. The conclusion starts off wonderfully, with Christopher discovering what happened and vowing to find her and give her no reason to leave again. However, once Christopher found Ember the story almost stopped making sense for me. Why were the others so against Ember leaving? Who's the mystery guy who's just decided to keep watch and protect them, who lives far enough away that no-one's seen his house, but close enough that he seems to be with them every day? I didn't expect to like this trilogy as much as I have and I'm disappointed that instead of ending on a high note with a band, it ends on a bit of whimper.
It did take me a bit to really get into the story and I can see that book wouldn't be to everyone's tastes, but I enjoyed it.
June 22, 2022
Captive Bride:
Abandoned by her mother at the age of five, Ember is rescued by a Park Ranger. He raises her secretly, sternly and obedient to his and God’s laws. Together for almost 20 years, they lived in almost total isolation. The Park Ranger did his job, while Ember remained indoors until the snows of winter come and the hordes of tourists no longer.
One day a strong, virile young man taking photographs strays too close to Ember’s secret home. The Ranger knocks him out and chains him in the basement. His ultimate goal is to coerce Christopher into marrying Ember. Will he ultimately agree? Will she? What are the consequences if this marriage does not take place?
Kept Bride:
This is an enticing and intriguing story of a young woman, Ember, who has never lived in the “real” world and an experienced man, Christopher, who has had a fulfilling life before his capture, terror and a forced marriage.
What will happen if they can escape? Will Ember always remain the “Ghost of Hallelujah Junction”? Is Christopher merely a captive who has escaped? Are they truly married? What will happen when they enter the busy, chaotic world?
Taken Bride:
After their “marriage and ultimate escape, Christopher takes Ember to New York to live with his mother until he can get his business thriving again.
Ember’s mother-in-law has never approved or accepted her. She is determined to save her son from this totally unacceptable woman. Somehow, she hires private investigators to find Papa Rich and Scarecrow. They come for Ember and she leaves with them in order to set Christopher free.
Will Christopher be glad to be free of his sham marriage? Will he search for Ember? Will he find her? If he does, will they decide to remain together or go their separate ways?
If you are looking for a happy little love tale, these stories are not for you. I am never disappointed by anything written by Alta Hensley, but be aware that, for me, this is a mind terrifying thriller that I highly recommend. I found myself absorbed into the lives of these two young people. Is their anxiety real? What can they and should they do to improve their lives?
Abandoned by her mother at the age of five, Ember is rescued by a Park Ranger. He raises her secretly, sternly and obedient to his and God’s laws. Together for almost 20 years, they lived in almost total isolation. The Park Ranger did his job, while Ember remained indoors until the snows of winter come and the hordes of tourists no longer.
One day a strong, virile young man taking photographs strays too close to Ember’s secret home. The Ranger knocks him out and chains him in the basement. His ultimate goal is to coerce Christopher into marrying Ember. Will he ultimately agree? Will she? What are the consequences if this marriage does not take place?
Kept Bride:
This is an enticing and intriguing story of a young woman, Ember, who has never lived in the “real” world and an experienced man, Christopher, who has had a fulfilling life before his capture, terror and a forced marriage.
What will happen if they can escape? Will Ember always remain the “Ghost of Hallelujah Junction”? Is Christopher merely a captive who has escaped? Are they truly married? What will happen when they enter the busy, chaotic world?
Taken Bride:
After their “marriage and ultimate escape, Christopher takes Ember to New York to live with his mother until he can get his business thriving again.
Ember’s mother-in-law has never approved or accepted her. She is determined to save her son from this totally unacceptable woman. Somehow, she hires private investigators to find Papa Rich and Scarecrow. They come for Ember and she leaves with them in order to set Christopher free.
Will Christopher be glad to be free of his sham marriage? Will he search for Ember? Will he find her? If he does, will they decide to remain together or go their separate ways?
If you are looking for a happy little love tale, these stories are not for you. I am never disappointed by anything written by Alta Hensley, but be aware that, for me, this is a mind terrifying thriller that I highly recommend. I found myself absorbed into the lives of these two young people. Is their anxiety real? What can they and should they do to improve their lives?
June 20, 2022
Book 1. 3.5 stars. I read a lot of dark romances and am pretty used to those themes, but this one got to me in a way that few do. Some of the things that were done had me cringing, and I'm just not used to that! So kudos to the author for that! Stockholm syndrome stories are probably my favorite trope out of everything, and this one certainly fits into that category. While I do think that their love came on a bit too quickly on page, I think that in the timeline, it worked. It just seemed that time went by too fast, because on page it seemed like maybe a couple of weeks, but by the time we hit the cliffhanger ending, months had passed, and I just wasn't sure how we got there. But I am into these two, and can't wait to jump into book 2
Book 2: 3.5 stars. This is the first middle book of a trilogy that I've read in a really long time, where I didn't feel like it was simply there for filler. There was character development as well as storyline advancement. I enjoyed seeing what I would think is a realistic take on Ember and Christopher dealing with and struggling to adapt to their new reality. And I can honestly say, I had no idea what to make of Ember's breakdowns, so well done Ms Hensley, on writing those scenes so well. After that cliffhanger, how can I not jump straight into book 3?!
Book 3: 3 stars. Taken Bride wraps up the trilogy with a little less darkness but the same overall feeling. I was still tied up in knots waiting to see how Christopher and Ember got to their HEA, because it was quite the road getting there. And while I was glad to to see them happy, I did feel like some of the bigger obstacles they had to overcome were dealt with off page and in an unsatisfying way. It was all too rushed at the end for me. But besides the HEA, I am sort of curious to see if the sister-wives and Isaac get a book at some point, because while I didn't really care for them as characters of this book, I think I'd be into a story revolving around all or some of them.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Book 2: 3.5 stars. This is the first middle book of a trilogy that I've read in a really long time, where I didn't feel like it was simply there for filler. There was character development as well as storyline advancement. I enjoyed seeing what I would think is a realistic take on Ember and Christopher dealing with and struggling to adapt to their new reality. And I can honestly say, I had no idea what to make of Ember's breakdowns, so well done Ms Hensley, on writing those scenes so well. After that cliffhanger, how can I not jump straight into book 3?!
Book 3: 3 stars. Taken Bride wraps up the trilogy with a little less darkness but the same overall feeling. I was still tied up in knots waiting to see how Christopher and Ember got to their HEA, because it was quite the road getting there. And while I was glad to to see them happy, I did feel like some of the bigger obstacles they had to overcome were dealt with off page and in an unsatisfying way. It was all too rushed at the end for me. But besides the HEA, I am sort of curious to see if the sister-wives and Isaac get a book at some point, because while I didn't really care for them as characters of this book, I think I'd be into a story revolving around all or some of them.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2022
The author is a creative and masterful storyteller. This trilogy gives you the best of both worlds, plot and spice.
Since this is an omnibus of 3 books, I'm going to divide each up individually.
Book 1, Captive Bride, will grab your attention from the very start. Ember is 'adopted' by "Papa Rich." This character definitely has some mental health issues. He keeps Ember for 20 years in a desert town. Your journey into this story will delve into the mind of a mad man. Papa Rich's paranoia for trespassers is obvious. Which only adds to the developing storyline. My interest in Ember's story never wavered. Since she was taken at such a young age, she honestly doesn't know a different life, despite her current one being shrouded in isolation and rather horrific. When a trespasser enters the picture, Embers world changes forever.
Christopher endures the wrath of PaPa Rich's cruel ways. He's held as a prisoner, chained like an animal. This is where things really get good. Ember's true resilience shines during these moments of darkness. She really is the light in Christopher's world. Even though their future is forced upon them, it really sparks the need to develop a logical escape plan.
Book 2 (Kept Bride) commenced with Christopher and Ember's new life together. Things are much more dangerous than they seem. Christopher's mother is a force to be reckoned with and she will not accept Ember into the fold.
Book 3, Taken Bride, wasn't my favorite of the trilogy. I preferred the intensity of the first two better. I still enjoyed it though. Somethings that I wanted to happen, never came to fruition, so I was unsatisfied with the lack of retribution.
Overall, the writing, storyline, character development and world building is excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Christopher and Ember's journey.
Overall for omnibus
Story ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Since this is an omnibus of 3 books, I'm going to divide each up individually.
Book 1, Captive Bride, will grab your attention from the very start. Ember is 'adopted' by "Papa Rich." This character definitely has some mental health issues. He keeps Ember for 20 years in a desert town. Your journey into this story will delve into the mind of a mad man. Papa Rich's paranoia for trespassers is obvious. Which only adds to the developing storyline. My interest in Ember's story never wavered. Since she was taken at such a young age, she honestly doesn't know a different life, despite her current one being shrouded in isolation and rather horrific. When a trespasser enters the picture, Embers world changes forever.
Christopher endures the wrath of PaPa Rich's cruel ways. He's held as a prisoner, chained like an animal. This is where things really get good. Ember's true resilience shines during these moments of darkness. She really is the light in Christopher's world. Even though their future is forced upon them, it really sparks the need to develop a logical escape plan.
Book 2 (Kept Bride) commenced with Christopher and Ember's new life together. Things are much more dangerous than they seem. Christopher's mother is a force to be reckoned with and she will not accept Ember into the fold.
Book 3, Taken Bride, wasn't my favorite of the trilogy. I preferred the intensity of the first two better. I still enjoyed it though. Somethings that I wanted to happen, never came to fruition, so I was unsatisfied with the lack of retribution.
Overall, the writing, storyline, character development and world building is excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Christopher and Ember's journey.
Overall for omnibus
Story ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
July 5, 2022
Captive Bride -
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. This is the first book in the Secret Bride trilogy that is a dark and twisted thriller.
**Warning** this book does end on a huge cliffhanger....and patiently waiting for the next book.
Christopher is a photographer and challanged with getting photos of the famous Hallelujah Junction. Although he gets alot more than he bargains for when he's held captive and forced to marry his captives daughter.
Ember has lived in the shadows of Hallelujah Junction for over 20 years. She has seen the evil that can happen when people disobey the laws and her father. She just has to help Christopher learn the ways and show him she can be a good wife.
I hope you are ready for dark and twisted because it was an amazing read.
Kept Bride-
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. This is the second book in The Secret Bride Trilogy. You must read these books in order. As always in a trilogy this book picks up where the one before left off and this book also ends in a cliffhanger. I don't want to give anything away but this series is very dark and twisted and it that will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to find out what happens next. A definite page turner you don't want to miss.
Taken Bide-
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. This is the 3rd book in the trilogy and conclusion of Ember and Christopher's story. You MUST read in order as this book picks up right where the last one left off. I couldn't wait for this book to come out and it definitely didn't disappoint. This trilogy is not only a twisted dark mess but a beautiful love story all rolled into one. Yes it was the end for Ember and Christopher but I so hope we get Holly and Violets stories. Must read trilogy!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. This is the first book in the Secret Bride trilogy that is a dark and twisted thriller.
**Warning** this book does end on a huge cliffhanger....and patiently waiting for the next book.
Christopher is a photographer and challanged with getting photos of the famous Hallelujah Junction. Although he gets alot more than he bargains for when he's held captive and forced to marry his captives daughter.
Ember has lived in the shadows of Hallelujah Junction for over 20 years. She has seen the evil that can happen when people disobey the laws and her father. She just has to help Christopher learn the ways and show him she can be a good wife.
I hope you are ready for dark and twisted because it was an amazing read.
Kept Bride-
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. This is the second book in The Secret Bride Trilogy. You must read these books in order. As always in a trilogy this book picks up where the one before left off and this book also ends in a cliffhanger. I don't want to give anything away but this series is very dark and twisted and it that will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to find out what happens next. A definite page turner you don't want to miss.
Taken Bide-
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. This is the 3rd book in the trilogy and conclusion of Ember and Christopher's story. You MUST read in order as this book picks up right where the last one left off. I couldn't wait for this book to come out and it definitely didn't disappoint. This trilogy is not only a twisted dark mess but a beautiful love story all rolled into one. Yes it was the end for Ember and Christopher but I so hope we get Holly and Violets stories. Must read trilogy!
June 16, 2022
SECRET BRIDE (THE COMPLETE TRILOGY)
Release Date: 06/20/22
Kindle Unlimited: [ ]YES [X]NO
Stand-alone: [X]YES [ ]NO
Number of pages: 521
Author: Alta Hensley
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫/5
Spiciness rating: 🌶🌶🌶/5
POV: Dual (besides the main couple only one chapter is narrated by the villain), first person
Main Characters: Ember & Christopher
Favorite Character: Ember
Genre: Psychological Thriller; Dark Romance
Tropes: captivity; forced marriage
Review:
The Secret Bride Trilogy is composed by three books: Captive Bride, Kept Bride and Taken Bride. They tells us the story of Ember and Christopher. Who met under terrible circumstances, being victims of a madman.
I decided to not review this book with many details because anything I say may be a spoiler. The two first books end in cliffhanger, but since they are all together here, it’s not a problem.
The first book was the one that impressed me more. I read it with a feeling of doom the entire time. Their situation was so terrible and I felt sorry for them most of the time.
The second book is all about the madness feeling. We don’t know if what we are reading is the truth or the delusions of a character that has been through a lot (that was also really interesting).
The last book, although it brought closure, missed something. It was the one I felt less. I still recommend the book and think it was an incredible wok that Alta made here.
If you feel like reading something that grips your attention at all times, give this book a chance.
*** I received an advanced copy of Secret Bride and this is my honest opinion. ***
Release Date: 06/20/22
Kindle Unlimited: [ ]YES [X]NO
Stand-alone: [X]YES [ ]NO
Number of pages: 521
Author: Alta Hensley
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫/5
Spiciness rating: 🌶🌶🌶/5
POV: Dual (besides the main couple only one chapter is narrated by the villain), first person
Main Characters: Ember & Christopher
Favorite Character: Ember
Genre: Psychological Thriller; Dark Romance
Tropes: captivity; forced marriage
Review:
The Secret Bride Trilogy is composed by three books: Captive Bride, Kept Bride and Taken Bride. They tells us the story of Ember and Christopher. Who met under terrible circumstances, being victims of a madman.
I decided to not review this book with many details because anything I say may be a spoiler. The two first books end in cliffhanger, but since they are all together here, it’s not a problem.
The first book was the one that impressed me more. I read it with a feeling of doom the entire time. Their situation was so terrible and I felt sorry for them most of the time.
The second book is all about the madness feeling. We don’t know if what we are reading is the truth or the delusions of a character that has been through a lot (that was also really interesting).
The last book, although it brought closure, missed something. It was the one I felt less. I still recommend the book and think it was an incredible wok that Alta made here.
If you feel like reading something that grips your attention at all times, give this book a chance.
*** I received an advanced copy of Secret Bride and this is my honest opinion. ***
June 10, 2022
The trilogy that took everyone captive!
Captive Bride
"The rules are so simple. Break the rules, and you will pay the price.”
Captive Bride is more of a thriller-suspense, sinister novel that will have you gasping out loud and holding your next breath. I even shredded a tear for the wicked nature of this romantic-story. It's a unique and unusual story that will make you think long and hard when finished.
Kept Bride
My emotions were everywhere for Ember and my heart aches deeply for her. She is on a battle of sorts with everyone around her… but a part of me feels she should get a grip faster than what this book is telling. Christopher is holding his own, then add Ember in the mix… well… it’s a roller coaster heading for disaster.
The ending however was priceless and one I knew was coming. Louisa is the devil! Seriously- how can I hate a character so much!
Taken Bride
** spoiler alert ** This will be hard to write, but this last chapter in Christopher and Ember’s life, I felt it lacked.
Now, don’t get me wrong, I liked the thrill the journey took us on, and meeting new characters (whom I hope to have their own story… FMF?! Yes please!) but the suspense I felt was missing. (view spoiler) Just my two cents on my opinion.
I am happy that Alta wrote Christopher’s character as loving, caring and accommodating to Ember. Their HEA was perfect for them.
Captive Bride
"The rules are so simple. Break the rules, and you will pay the price.”
Captive Bride is more of a thriller-suspense, sinister novel that will have you gasping out loud and holding your next breath. I even shredded a tear for the wicked nature of this romantic-story. It's a unique and unusual story that will make you think long and hard when finished.
Kept Bride
My emotions were everywhere for Ember and my heart aches deeply for her. She is on a battle of sorts with everyone around her… but a part of me feels she should get a grip faster than what this book is telling. Christopher is holding his own, then add Ember in the mix… well… it’s a roller coaster heading for disaster.
The ending however was priceless and one I knew was coming. Louisa is the devil! Seriously- how can I hate a character so much!
Taken Bride
** spoiler alert ** This will be hard to write, but this last chapter in Christopher and Ember’s life, I felt it lacked.
Now, don’t get me wrong, I liked the thrill the journey took us on, and meeting new characters (whom I hope to have their own story… FMF?! Yes please!) but the suspense I felt was missing. (view spoiler) Just my two cents on my opinion.
I am happy that Alta wrote Christopher’s character as loving, caring and accommodating to Ember. Their HEA was perfect for them.
June 8, 2022
Captive Bride-Christopher and Embers twisting dark tale will transport you to another reality hold on to your hats as this is a whirlwind ride! Christopher wakes up captive to Richard who uses Ember to torment Christopher into compliance. the story will have you gripped to every word and the characters just draw you in with fear, desire, confusion, and so much more. Alta really creates a world of her own with her books but this ones got to be the darkest yet!
Kept Bride-Ember and Christopher's story continues. Ember doesn't fit in Christopher's world though they are both trying to readjust to life, Ember is head strong through out will it be enough to face those who wish her gone? well written filled with suspense, desires, and more!
Taken Bride-Can love really conquer all? Christopher returns but finds Ember gone, in the clutches of his mother Louisa, Richard and Scarecrow. Can they survive and over come it all? This book has you gripping the pages woth suspense twists and more! The characters just blow you away with how they have transformed over the series and how far they have come. The read is worth it for the darkly twisting story but you stay for the well detailed scenes that take your emotions on a ride!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Kept Bride-Ember and Christopher's story continues. Ember doesn't fit in Christopher's world though they are both trying to readjust to life, Ember is head strong through out will it be enough to face those who wish her gone? well written filled with suspense, desires, and more!
Taken Bride-Can love really conquer all? Christopher returns but finds Ember gone, in the clutches of his mother Louisa, Richard and Scarecrow. Can they survive and over come it all? This book has you gripping the pages woth suspense twists and more! The characters just blow you away with how they have transformed over the series and how far they have come. The read is worth it for the darkly twisting story but you stay for the well detailed scenes that take your emotions on a ride!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2022
Richard is a ranger for the abandoned mining town of Hallelujah Junction in Nevada. 20 years ago, when getting supplies in town, he passed a 5 year old girl sitting on a stoop. Ember was abandoned by her mother. Richard took her home and she has been basically locked away from everyone but Papa Rich and his one legged friend Scarecrow.
Christopher Davenport is a photographer for Rolling Stone magazine. He comes from a rich family and is in Hallelujah Junction to take pictures. However, he trespasses where he shouldn’t on the property. Richard hits him on the head and chains him up in the cellar. Papa Rich has Scarecrow marry Christopher and Ember. He keeps them chained together so he can control them.
Will Ember and Christopher ever be able to leave? Will Christopher take Ember with him if he can go back to his life in New York? If Ember goes to New York, will she be able to handle being around people all the time?
From the beginning in Captive Bride, through Kept Bride and all the way to the end of Taken Bride, you never knew what was going to happen next to Ember and Christopher. Well written and definitely kept me on my toes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Christopher Davenport is a photographer for Rolling Stone magazine. He comes from a rich family and is in Hallelujah Junction to take pictures. However, he trespasses where he shouldn’t on the property. Richard hits him on the head and chains him up in the cellar. Papa Rich has Scarecrow marry Christopher and Ember. He keeps them chained together so he can control them.
Will Ember and Christopher ever be able to leave? Will Christopher take Ember with him if he can go back to his life in New York? If Ember goes to New York, will she be able to handle being around people all the time?
From the beginning in Captive Bride, through Kept Bride and all the way to the end of Taken Bride, you never knew what was going to happen next to Ember and Christopher. Well written and definitely kept me on my toes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 20, 2022
This is the complete serial of the Captive Bride series. From the first page I got invested with all characters introduce as it unfolded. This starts when Papa Rich (Richard) took Ember when she was an abandoned child by her mother and is strict with the rules of not being seen and is very religious. They live in an old, abandoned ghost town, Hallelujah Junction, which has posted "No Trespassing" around it and which Papa Rich is the Ranger. Christopher is taking pictures of the town for an article for Rolling Stones when Papa Rich approaches and tells him he's trespassing. While Christopher attention is on taking pictures, Papa Rich bops him on the head and calls Ember over to carry him to the tunnels under the town. Waking up shackled Papa Rich tells Christopher his plans for him to marry Ember. It continues to involve to when Christopher and Ember escape and they go home to New York City. There Ember meets a new threat (Mommy Dearest) Lousia who is dead set against Ember and wants her gone. How does it end in this series? Will Ember and Christopher remain married? This serial was a totally enjoyable read, it kept me on the edge as I read this romantic ARC that I volunteer to read and review.
July 13, 2022
This trilogy consists of Captive Bride, Kept Bride and Taken Bride. The stories are dark and keeps you glued to the pages from start to finish. I loved all three of the stories in this trilogy. In the first one Captive Bride, Christopher and Ember will have you glued to the pages of this thrilling story. It is descriptive and the characters have you drawn to their circumstances. They are trapped together and as a result strengthens their bond. This is one book I could not put down because I had to see how this story would play out! Next is Kept Bride. This is a real page turner! Christopher and Ember will have you twisted up emotionally with all they endured and what is happening around them. It is filled with intrigue and suspense that once you start you can't put this book down! Finally, we have Taken Bride. I loved the final conclusion to this amazing story that had my emotions all over the place! Scarecrow, Richard and Christopher’s mother are despicable people that sent Christopher and Ember through hell, but they emerged victorious! He and Ember grew in character and strengthened their relationship, but will it be enough to survive everything they have endured!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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