Dark Secret

I picked up this book after hearing Elizabeth Atkins Bowman speak at a writer's conference and I couldn't put it down! Every plotline was interesting and exciting. The characters were very engaging. The book is refreshing because it shows multiracial interactions, which you don't see often in mainstream fiction. We live in a multiracial and multicultural world, congratulations to Elizabeth for writing about it! It's also a very good book for the romance and the suspense. All of it keeps you guessing right up until the last page. Very well done.

Bowman's sophomore effort, Dark Secret, is a mover and a shaker. There are none of those "dull moments" that we as readers often find in 400+ page books. The saga of Sharlene (aka Camille), a biracial woman passing for white and striving for the love and affection of a racist-riddled political family, unravels and unfolds at lightning speed. Sharlene leaves home at a tender age and reinvents herself, becoming part of a world that accepts her based on her achievements and outward appearance.But how far will she go? Bowman tells the story of Camille, whom her mother refers to as "ghost chile" and Camille's "sweet praline" sister Karen with an awakening edge. Bowman's characters and language grab the reader from the first page, and never let go of the chokehold until the last word. She is a no-nonsense writer, and you won't find any fluff or frills in this novel, just 416 pages of action-packed reading. This is not a book you want to pass up.Reviewed by CandaceK

I found this book to be very good. Of course it is an old story revisited. It reminded me of the old movie "Imitation of Life" with a deadly twist. The story moved quickly and kept my attention. The story had a little bit of everything including romance and intrigue. Some of the happenings within the family were a little hard to take, but it goes to show that we never know what goes on behind closed doors. It takes an open mind to read and enjoy a story like Dark Secret. Take it from this black woman who loves to read this book will be well worth the time spent reading it. If you enjoy it then you have to read "White Chocolate" also by Elizabeth Atkins Bowman.I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.

The book is one of intrigue and subtle romance. Atkins Bowman is a gifted storyteller. This book is a page turner providing many twist and turns throughout. Just when you thought you had someone figured out another family member pops up with their own hidden secret. Camille, aka Sharlene thought she had it all figured out and thought the world was a better place on the other side, NOT! Atkins Bowman provided many thought provoking scenes and scenes that made the reader gasp. Near the conclusion you understood Sharlene's mother's treatment of her even if you didn't agree with her actions. Everyone and I mean everyone had a secret. The Stone family was as dysfuntional as they come. Great story!

Elizabeth Atkins-Bowman's second novel (her first, White Chocolate, is another must-read) proves that she is a masterfully gifted storyteller. This racy, mysterious tale is sensual, surprising and challenging in unexpected ways. This is a treat not to be missed!