Leslie North delivers another sweeping, steamy desert romance in The Sheikh's Secret Past, a tale that’s as much about love and redemption as it is about the unbreakable bonds—and fractures—within a powerful family.

Set against an exotic desert backdrop, the story follows two interconnected love stories: one between the charismatic playboy Amir and the spirited Soraya, and the other between the brooding, protective Tariq and the devoted Sara, who are expecting their second child. North does a wonderful job of weaving both relationships together, giving readers a dual romance that’s rich in tension, chemistry, and emotional depth.

Amir and Soraya’s story brings the flirty, irresistible energy of a classic opposites-attract dynamic. Watching Amir—known for his bachelor lifestyle—fall hard for Soraya is charming and satisfying. At the same time, Tariq and Sara’s deeper, more settled love provides an emotional counterbalance, especially as they navigate parenthood and commitment.

What really raises the stakes is the arrival of a woman from Amir’s past who carries a secret capable of unraveling everything. North uses this twist effectively, injecting family drama and suspense that keeps the reader hooked. The reveal adds complexity without veering into melodrama, and the tension surrounding loyalty, forgiveness, and identity feels grounded and real.

If there's a critique, it's that the pacing around the central secret felt a bit rushed toward the end. A little more time exploring the emotional fallout could have made the resolution even more impactful.

Final thoughts: The Sheikh’s Secret Past is an indulgent, emotionally satisfying read packed with romance, heat, and just the right amount of scandal. Fans of desert sheikh romances and family sagas will find much to enjoy—and plenty to swoon over—in this passionate installment of the Botros family series.

This was also a good addition to the other books I've read in this series. The relationship between the two main characters was stunning and i also enjoyed all the scenes that was mentioned, the main male lead also sounded super rough and sexy.

This is a good book. The two main characters are Amir and Soraya. There is an instant attraction. They have been dating for about a month. They go on vacation with Amir’s family. They each have issues but together they work them out and fall in love and get married.

In the ongoing tale of Soraya and Amir, Soraya finally agreed to give Amir a chance. After dating for a month, Fiddah, Amir's grandmother, decides to take the family on a vacation to their ancestral home in Salma City. Things are going well, and Soraya and Amir are enjoying their time together. During a family dinner, Sara, Tariq's wife, notices a woman observing Amir, setting off a chain of events. The next morning, problems arise when Amir is informed that a woman wishes to speak to him, revealing complications from his past. Mrs. Botros insists on Amir marrying his child's mother to avoid scandal, leading to heated arguments due to Amir's love for Soraya. Fiddah and others support Amir, recognizing the situation as a power play. The story unfolds with emotional ups and downs, including Malik finding love. Soraya stands out, and the characters, despite their flaws, contribute to the series' appeal. Amidst family dynamics, Tariq undergoes positive changes, Sara remains a formidable presence, and Amir's adorable son adds a delightful touch. The book also introduces humorous moments with the guys teasing Aaliyah, showcasing the couples' endearing and beautiful relationships.

2.75
Thank you, Netgalley, and the publisher for this e-Arc
This was just a fun book. It made me laugh a silly little romance 🤣 😂

Oohh nothing like sheiks and their family's and secrets. I love this series and can't wait for the next one to come out!! I loved it! From the very first to the last page!!
I just reviewed The Sheikh’s Secret Past by Leslie North. #TheSheikhsSecretPast #NetGalley
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A fast-paced, easy to read romance with an interesting plot. Look forward to reading more by the author.

Quick Summary: A three-in-one romance

My Review: The Sheikh's Secret Past by Leslie North is book three in the Botros Brothers series.

About the Book: This romance novel is a continuation story. It offers a distinct view of three specific relationships - that of Tariq and Sara (featured in books one, two, and three), that of Amir and Soraya (featured in books two and three), and that of Malik, Soraya's brother, and Lana, a Botros employee (hinted at in book two and fully introduced in book three).

In this installment, we learn about a former lover, a secret love child, a familial deception, and more. Additionally, we get to read how the newly coupled duo (Soraya and Amir) handle their toxic challenges and family drama.

The conflicts, as well as the confrontations, in this book were minimal to moderate, at best. The main hiccup was adequately addressed, although I was surprised by the delivery of the resolution. Ultimately, love triumphed.

My Final Say: Readers who enjoy family connection books that have major crossover vibes will like this book series.

Rating: 3/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Status/Level: 💬

Appreciation is extended to the author and the publisher. Thanks for giving me the opportunity to review this title via NetGalley. The words I have shared are my own.

This was what we had been waiting for. Amir finally is getting the woman he has been after to accept him as he is. He is thrilled that the relationship with Soraya is moving along and he knows he will be married to her before long. Sara is pregnant again and is thrilled that her bestie is finally getting his happy ever after.

DNF 2/3 of the way in.

I had gone into this book with somewhat high hopes, not having read anything by this author before and going by the title I really assumed it would have foundation for the title but I was totally wrong.

It was my mistake, I know Sheikh can be a leader within a family/tribe so I gave it the benefit of the doubt, telling myself that maybe there is no religious reference and tried to treat them like i would any other characters in any other book. I don't read Blurbs, going in blind means I need to overcome my expectations sometimes and most of the time my gut is right but this time I just couldn't get over so many things.

Book three of this series started right where book two left off. It is full of the brothers, Amir and Malik's, love stories. Amir and Soraya are tested big time. I really like the twist that this book brought. I can't wait for book four.