If you’re in the mood for a romance that hits you in the heart and leaves you emotionally wrecked in the best way, Ordinary Secrets by Melissa Lam needs to be at the top of your TBR.

I had the chance to read an ARC of this book, and let me tell you—I devoured it. Melissa Lam delivers a fast-paced story filled with raw, messy characters, soft magic, and one of my favorite tropes ever: he falls first and he falls hard.

What It’s About (Spoiler-Free!)

Ordinary Secrets follows two characters who are both fighting their pasts, their feelings, and each other. The romance builds slowly, a true slow burn, but the emotional payoff is worth every page. There’s a magic system woven into the background that’s subtle and charming, adding just enough fantasy to give the book an extra spark.

And let’s talk about the MMC for a second. If you love a man who is completely undone by the girl he swears he shouldn’t fall for… this one’s for you. I was swooning at page 50. He’s intense. He’s protective. And yes, he wears his dress shirts with the sleeves rolled up. Can you say James Dean.

All The Feels

Melissa Lam’s writing style is what made this book truly stand out. It feels like sitting down with your best friend and listening to them spill every juicy, heartbreaking, romantic detail about a relationship they really need you to understand. It’s casual, warm, and unputdownable.

I also loved how flawed the characters were. This isn’t a neat little romance. It’s messy, it’s emotional, and it feels real. I loved and hated both the main characters at different points and that’s exactly why I was so invested.

Favorite Quote

“I loved you before you ever looked at me. That’s what made it a secret.”

That line? It lives in my head rent-free.

Final Thoughts

Ordinary Secrets is the first in a trilogy, with Book 2, Captured Immune releasing May 15, 2025 and Book 3 June 12, 2025 so get ready to binge. If you love:

❤️ Slow burn romance
💫 A cozy, magic system
🥀 Bad boy falls for the good girl
🖤 Emotional character growth
🔥 Serious romantic tension

…then you don’t want to miss this one.

Grab Your Copy Today

Ordinary Secrets is out now wherever books are sold! Trust me, you’ll want to read it before Book 2 drops.