Secrets and Lies ( Cassie Scot #2) by Christine Amsden is a 2013 Twilight Times Publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This second in the Cassie Scot Paranormal Detective series picks up where the first one left off. Cassie has moved in with her friend and is out of a job, estranged from her parents, broken up with her boyfriend and struggling with her feelings for Evan. When two girls disappear from camp, Cassie looks into the case, although her boss still hasn't hired her back.
Meanwhile, Cassie's pregnant mother is not doing so well. When all else fails, she is hospitalized. Cassie is guilted into visiting her. The result is the revelation of a shocking secret from her mother's past that goes a long way in explaining why Cassie finds herself in the situation she has lived with her whole life.. her lack of magical abilities.
The issues with Evan's family and Cassie's family that have caused them to become bitter enemies is still a mystery to Cassie and Evan. But, Evan will be given a hint of why Cassie's family have such strong feelings against his father. The truth will knock him to his knees.
This chapter in the series is more powerful than the first one was. Things really begin heat up as Cassie learns more about her mother's past, admits her feelings for Evan, still kicks butt as a detective, and tries to help a friend going through a really hard time. The secrets are stunning and I think that Cassie will have a chance to heal the rift between herself and her family in time. It won't be easy, but it's obvious they do love her. As for Evan, only time will tell. There is still a great many questions that will have to be answered and once the chips fall the results are sure to be mind blowing.
Cassie is a person that despite being from a magical family is someone people can relate to. She is different and suffers prejudice as a result. But, she doesn't let it get to her. She moves forward no matter what life throws at her. She isn't superwoman, she doesn't have a natural ability like her siblings, she is as normal as her life will allow. She is a good friend, a good daughter, a good sister and a good example. She is someone you can imagine being friends with in real life.
The only thing I get angry about is that so often is seems Cassie ends up going it alone. Having to keep her family secrets and being different from them, and with her friends all being involved in their own problems, Evan is in constant conflict, Cassie sort of slips through the cracks. But, if it makes any difference, I'm in her corner cheering her on.
I can not recommend this series highly enough. If you like paranormal mystery and romance, YA or New Adult you will love this series. This one is an A+