REVIEW: WHERE SECRETS FIND SOLACE by Kimberly Brown follows the journey of Alayah Chambers, who, after serving a decade-long sentence for the death of her mother's boyfriend, is released from prison and confronted with the complexities of reintegration. Her freedom is fraught with challenges—she continues to endure the psychological aftermath of past abuse and societal stigma that labels her as a criminal. Determined to reconstruct her life, Alayah faces the unresolved issues of her past, notably with her mother, whose failings deeply affected her. The support provided by her uncle and aunt proves crucial, while Killian Lake, a former schoolmate, emerges as her advocate in seeking justice for the wrongs she endured.
One of Brown’s notable strengths as an author is her adeptness at crafting authentic characters, regardless of their roles within the narrative. Both protagonists and secondary figures are portrayed with depth and vividness. Alayah and Killian are particularly compelling yet supporting characters such as Londyn—whose outspoken and vibrant personality breaks through Alayah’s guardedness—and Carissa, Alayah's maternal prison companion, also leave a strong impression. In stark contrast, Alayah’s mother and Rodney (her abuser) are depicted as deeply flawed individuals, intensifying the emotional gravity of the story.
Alayah’s determination to protect her younger siblings defines her character from adolescence. Upon her release, she emerges more resilient, having refused to be diminished by her incarceration. Her commitment to her sisters remains steadfast. Killian plays a pivotal role in Alayah’s healing process; his blend of kindness and resolve is shaped by lingering guilt over missing earlier signs of her abuse. This motivates him to pursue the truth behind her conviction and advocate for its reversal.
Interwoven throughout WHERE SECRETS FIND SOLACE is a nuanced love story between two former classmates. Brown skillfully depicts how, in the aftermath of profound trauma, patience and understanding—embodied by Killian—enable Alayah to experience emotional growth and romantic awakening.
It is essential for prospective readers to approach Brown's work with awareness of its emotional weight. The narrative addresses trauma with directness and authenticity, potentially eliciting a strong response. Brown offers unvarnished portrayals of hardship, prompting reflection on deeply unsettling realities. WHERE SECRETS FIND SOLACE examines themes of betrayal by those expected to offer protection and explores how repeated failures can drive individuals to extreme actions necessary for survival, subsequently altering the course of their lives.
Brown presents a narrative that resonates for its realism and emotional depth, reflecting circumstances that, regrettably, are not uncommon. By the conclusion, Alayah is portrayed as embarking on a path toward healing and trust, open to receiving the love and affection from those who love and support her. I reviewed the audio edition of this book, and Morris Kellswater and Charlie L. Wood took the narrative to another level. Their performances must be commended.
19th January 2026 | romcol@caribsurf.com
One of Brown’s notable strengths as an author is her adeptness at crafting authentic characters, regardless of their roles within the narrative. Both protagonists and secondary figures are portrayed with depth and vividness. Alayah and Killian are particularly compelling yet supporting characters such as Londyn—whose outspoken and vibrant personality breaks through Alayah’s guardedness—and Carissa, Alayah's maternal prison companion, also leave a strong impression. In stark contrast, Alayah’s mother and Rodney (her abuser) are depicted as deeply flawed individuals, intensifying the emotional gravity of the story.
Alayah’s determination to protect her younger siblings defines her character from adolescence. Upon her release, she emerges more resilient, having refused to be diminished by her incarceration. Her commitment to her sisters remains steadfast. Killian plays a pivotal role in Alayah’s healing process; his blend of kindness and resolve is shaped by lingering guilt over missing earlier signs of her abuse. This motivates him to pursue the truth behind her conviction and advocate for its reversal.
Interwoven throughout WHERE SECRETS FIND SOLACE is a nuanced love story between two former classmates. Brown skillfully depicts how, in the aftermath of profound trauma, patience and understanding—embodied by Killian—enable Alayah to experience emotional growth and romantic awakening.
It is essential for prospective readers to approach Brown's work with awareness of its emotional weight. The narrative addresses trauma with directness and authenticity, potentially eliciting a strong response. Brown offers unvarnished portrayals of hardship, prompting reflection on deeply unsettling realities. WHERE SECRETS FIND SOLACE examines themes of betrayal by those expected to offer protection and explores how repeated failures can drive individuals to extreme actions necessary for survival, subsequently altering the course of their lives.
Brown presents a narrative that resonates for its realism and emotional depth, reflecting circumstances that, regrettably, are not uncommon. By the conclusion, Alayah is portrayed as embarking on a path toward healing and trust, open to receiving the love and affection from those who love and support her. I reviewed the audio edition of this book, and Morris Kellswater and Charlie L. Wood took the narrative to another level. Their performances must be commended.
19th January 2026 | romcol@caribsurf.com
AWARD OF EXCELLENCE