What do you think?
Rate this book
Best Kept Secret
A timely and captivating novel about a mother whose life spirals out of control when she descends into alcoholism, and her battle to get sober and regain custody of her beloved son.
Cadence didn’t sit down one night and decide that downing two bottles of wine was a brilliant idea.
Her drinking snuck up on her—as a way to sleep, to help her relax after a long day, to relieve some of the stress of the painful divorce that’s left her struggling to make ends meet with her five-year old son, Charlie.
It wasn’t always like this. Just a few years ago, Cadence seemed to have it all—a successful husband, an adorable son, and a promising career as a freelance journalist. But with the demise of her marriage, her carefully constructed life begins to spiral out of control. Suddenly she is all alone trying to juggle the demands of work and motherhood.
Logically, Cadence knows that she is drinking too much, and every day begins with renewed promises to herself that she will stop. But within a few hours, driven by something she doesn’t understand, she is reaching for the bottle—even when it means not playing with her son because she is too tired, or dropping him off at preschool late, again. And even when one calamitous night it means leaving him alone to pick up more wine at the grocery store. It’s only when her ex-husband shows up at her door to take Charlie away that Cadence realizes her best kept secret has been discovered….
Heartbreaking, haunting, and ultimately life-affirming, Best Kept Secret is more than just the story of Cadence—it’s a story of how the secrets we hold closest are the ones that can most tear us apart.
Cadence didn’t sit down one night and decide that downing two bottles of wine was a brilliant idea.
Her drinking snuck up on her—as a way to sleep, to help her relax after a long day, to relieve some of the stress of the painful divorce that’s left her struggling to make ends meet with her five-year old son, Charlie.
It wasn’t always like this. Just a few years ago, Cadence seemed to have it all—a successful husband, an adorable son, and a promising career as a freelance journalist. But with the demise of her marriage, her carefully constructed life begins to spiral out of control. Suddenly she is all alone trying to juggle the demands of work and motherhood.
Logically, Cadence knows that she is drinking too much, and every day begins with renewed promises to herself that she will stop. But within a few hours, driven by something she doesn’t understand, she is reaching for the bottle—even when it means not playing with her son because she is too tired, or dropping him off at preschool late, again. And even when one calamitous night it means leaving him alone to pick up more wine at the grocery store. It’s only when her ex-husband shows up at her door to take Charlie away that Cadence realizes her best kept secret has been discovered….
Heartbreaking, haunting, and ultimately life-affirming, Best Kept Secret is more than just the story of Cadence—it’s a story of how the secrets we hold closest are the ones that can most tear us apart.
352 pages, Paperback
First published May 23, 2011
118 people are currently reading
9488 people want to read
About the author
Amy Hatvany
16 books1,004 followersAmy Hatvany was born in Seattle, WA in 1972, the youngest of three children. She graduated from Western Washington University in 1994 with a degree in Sociology only to discover most sociologists are unemployed. Soon followed a variety of jobs – some of which she loved, like decorating wedding cakes; others which she merely tolerated, like receptionist. In 1998, Amy finally decided to sell her car, quit her job, and take a chance on writing books.
The literary gods took kindly to her aspirations and THE KIND OF LOVE THAT SAVES YOU was published in 2000 by Bantam Doubleday. THE LANGUAGE OF SISTERS was picked up by NAL in 2002. (Both titles published under "Yurk.")
Amy spends most of her time today with her second and final husband, Stephan. (Seriously, if this one doesn’t work out, she’s done.) She stays busy with her two children, Scarlett and Miles, and her “bonus child,” Anna. Their blended family also includes two four-legged hairy children, commonly known as Black Lab mutts, Kenda and Dolcé. When Amy’s not with friends or family, she is most likely reading, cooking or zoning out on certain reality television shows. Top Chef is a current favorite. She eagerly awaits auditions for the cast of “Top Author.” (“Quick Edit” instead of “Quick Fire” Challenge? C’mon, producers! That’s gripping television!)
The literary gods took kindly to her aspirations and THE KIND OF LOVE THAT SAVES YOU was published in 2000 by Bantam Doubleday. THE LANGUAGE OF SISTERS was picked up by NAL in 2002. (Both titles published under "Yurk.")
Amy spends most of her time today with her second and final husband, Stephan. (Seriously, if this one doesn’t work out, she’s done.) She stays busy with her two children, Scarlett and Miles, and her “bonus child,” Anna. Their blended family also includes two four-legged hairy children, commonly known as Black Lab mutts, Kenda and Dolcé. When Amy’s not with friends or family, she is most likely reading, cooking or zoning out on certain reality television shows. Top Chef is a current favorite. She eagerly awaits auditions for the cast of “Top Author.” (“Quick Edit” instead of “Quick Fire” Challenge? C’mon, producers! That’s gripping television!)
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 549 reviews
March 6, 2017
This is an amazing book. It is the story of Cadence, whose once perfect life slowly slips out of her control, as does her drinking. When she endangered her son's wellbeing, her ex-husband takes him from her. After stint in a psychiatric hospital and rehab, she is slowly trying to figure out how to live sober and regain custody of her son.
What is so incredible about this book is how well it portrays the journey that alcoholics take. From social drinking to out of control binging, those first few nights in detox ("How did I get here?") to those first few AA meetings (get out as fast as you can at the end) Amy Hatvany, shows all the nuances of recovery. One of the best lines that I remember from the book is when
Cadence asks "When do you know when you've reached bottom?" Vince replies "When you stop digging."
This is a great book for people who have preconceived notions about alcoholics. Alcoholics can be anybody. Alcoholism can strike anyone. It's not a moral failing, it's a disease. A lot of people who've never worked with alcoholics, or helped alcoholics with their sobriety can be extremely judgmental. Because of the anonymity of AA, no one knows who is in recovery unless they tell you. So you just never know.
This book deals a lot with Cadence's relationship with her son Charlie and her custody fight for him. When she was an active alcoholic, Cadence made some extremely bad choices as a parent. Now that she is in recovery, she understands this and vows to do better. I found it fascinating that the book was very evenhanded in that you really could see this issue from everyone's POV. It really boiled down to what was best for Charlie. As a former CPS worker, I applaud the decision.
The characters in the book are all fascinating and true to life. All of them. I get Martin's anger. I get her mother, Sharon's fear, covered up by the need to be perfect. I even get rambunctious Charlie, who sometimes feels the need to care for his Mama, even at age 5.
There was one scene that set off alarm bells. Cadence and Alice, her ex-mother-in-law were having hot cocoa and cookies with Charlie, and Alice put some Bailey's Irish Cream in her hot cocoa. Nothing much was made of this, but that's how it starts. Cadence should have told Martin, even if it made him angry. Charlie should not be with someone again who is drinking during the day. Maybe caring for Charlie was getting to be too much for Alice.
So, do I recommend this book? Hell to the yes.
What is so incredible about this book is how well it portrays the journey that alcoholics take. From social drinking to out of control binging, those first few nights in detox ("How did I get here?") to those first few AA meetings (get out as fast as you can at the end) Amy Hatvany, shows all the nuances of recovery. One of the best lines that I remember from the book is when
Cadence asks "When do you know when you've reached bottom?" Vince replies "When you stop digging."
This is a great book for people who have preconceived notions about alcoholics. Alcoholics can be anybody. Alcoholism can strike anyone. It's not a moral failing, it's a disease. A lot of people who've never worked with alcoholics, or helped alcoholics with their sobriety can be extremely judgmental. Because of the anonymity of AA, no one knows who is in recovery unless they tell you. So you just never know.
This book deals a lot with Cadence's relationship with her son Charlie and her custody fight for him. When she was an active alcoholic, Cadence made some extremely bad choices as a parent. Now that she is in recovery, she understands this and vows to do better. I found it fascinating that the book was very evenhanded in that you really could see this issue from everyone's POV. It really boiled down to what was best for Charlie. As a former CPS worker, I applaud the decision.
The characters in the book are all fascinating and true to life. All of them. I get Martin's anger. I get her mother, Sharon's fear, covered up by the need to be perfect. I even get rambunctious Charlie, who sometimes feels the need to care for his Mama, even at age 5.
There was one scene that set off alarm bells. Cadence and Alice, her ex-mother-in-law were having hot cocoa and cookies with Charlie, and Alice put some Bailey's Irish Cream in her hot cocoa. Nothing much was made of this, but that's how it starts. Cadence should have told Martin, even if it made him angry. Charlie should not be with someone again who is drinking during the day. Maybe caring for Charlie was getting to be too much for Alice.
So, do I recommend this book? Hell to the yes.
June 10, 2011
Motherhood & Alcoholism; grim subject matter, not a novel I thought would be a favourite read but how wrong I was. While Best Kept Secret made my heart ache and my gut churn it wasn't a depressing read. It's honest and real and courageous, with a depth not often seen.
When life hands you lemons, some make lemonade and some don't. Whether it be seeking oblivion in pills, escape in retail therapy, comfort in eating, or solace in a bottle, when you can't stop, it's addiction of one form or another. Best Kept Secret makes you think ... there but for the grace of God, go I.
Cadence's life as a single mother after divorcing her unfaithful husband, is a struggle financially and with insomnia. When a glass or two of wine to cope becomes alcoholism the reader shares Cadee's brave journey to sobriety and acceptance and there's nothing cliched about this sharing.
Amy Hatvany writes with compassion, from the heart, visiting scary places that need to be visited if there's hope of breaking taboos and stigmas. “The best way out is always through” ... no shortcuts, no detours, no sidetracks. When Cadence begins to feel her feelings, she owns them ... I felt Cadee's anguish, her shame, her gutteral, all consuming pain when she realises her actions have cost her custody of Charlie.
I loved Cadee, her love for Charlie resonates from the pages, I loved her humour and sarcasm, her courage and the unconditional love between Cadence and her sister, Jess. In this age, where mother's strive to do it all and have it all, Best Kept Secret is a timely reminder that it's ok to ask for help and it's ok to have some 'weeds in the garden'.
There's no pattycake ending, there's a poignant, hopeful real-life ending and Best Kept Secret is an absolute must read.
When life hands you lemons, some make lemonade and some don't. Whether it be seeking oblivion in pills, escape in retail therapy, comfort in eating, or solace in a bottle, when you can't stop, it's addiction of one form or another. Best Kept Secret makes you think ... there but for the grace of God, go I.
Cadence's life as a single mother after divorcing her unfaithful husband, is a struggle financially and with insomnia. When a glass or two of wine to cope becomes alcoholism the reader shares Cadee's brave journey to sobriety and acceptance and there's nothing cliched about this sharing.
Amy Hatvany writes with compassion, from the heart, visiting scary places that need to be visited if there's hope of breaking taboos and stigmas. “The best way out is always through” ... no shortcuts, no detours, no sidetracks. When Cadence begins to feel her feelings, she owns them ... I felt Cadee's anguish, her shame, her gutteral, all consuming pain when she realises her actions have cost her custody of Charlie.
I loved Cadee, her love for Charlie resonates from the pages, I loved her humour and sarcasm, her courage and the unconditional love between Cadence and her sister, Jess. In this age, where mother's strive to do it all and have it all, Best Kept Secret is a timely reminder that it's ok to ask for help and it's ok to have some 'weeds in the garden'.
There's no pattycake ending, there's a poignant, hopeful real-life ending and Best Kept Secret is an absolute must read.
June 20, 2016
After enjoying “Somewhere Out There” by author Amy Hatvany, and reading reviews on that novel, I learned that many of her followers enjoyed “Best Kept Secret” even more. This author has a devoted following, and I understand why. In this novel, as with the above mentioned, Hatvany delves into realistic domestic fiction that provides the reader with thought provoking themes. Her characters are real and human and all lessons are learned after messy and horrifying mistakes. These stories are gritty.
“Best Kept Secrets” is about a mom, Cadence, of an energetic young boy who aspires to be perfect. She wants to provide her child with the idealistic life full of love, understanding and perfection. Sounds like 98% of all women who become Moms. What happens to Cadence is that when her life isn’t idealistic, she becomes dependent upon wine as a self-medicating tool. It’s a familiar tool for Moms across the board. What happens to Cadence is that it snuck up on her. One glass became two, which became a bottle, which evolved into multiple bottles. Reading the slow destruction of her life is painful. Hatvany writes this demise so realistic that the reader understands and comprehends the ease at which it evolves. Suddenly Cadence is in such a hole, her husband takes her son away from her and she ends up in rehab. This is a story most women can relate to and think to themselves: by the grace of God go I. Drinking wine and motherhood almost goes hand in hand these days in our society. And being women, our metabolism is such that it becomes easy to become unexpectedly tipsy. Add to that the pressure women place on themselves to be the perfect mother, addictive behavior is easily attained. It may not be alcohol, but it could be eating, shopping, or working. It’s a theme most Moms related to.
What I enjoyed about this novel is that it called me out on my own judgmental ideas of women who lose children due to alcoholism. This novel made me embarrassed about my previous judgments and has made me understand and feel compassion towards these women. This is a novel that begs the readers to reflect on their own harsh judgments of people who suffer any addiction. Hatvany makes these people real. And her story makes the reader realize that we are all a hair away from falling into that trap. In addition, she explores the genetic component that is not always known.
This is a beautiful book that is thought provoking and real. I highly recommend it for those who have addictive people in their lives and want to understand them better. It’s also a great read if you admit to yourself that you have been one to quickly judge. Amy Hatvany is now becoming one of my favored “quick read” yet provocative authors.
“Best Kept Secrets” is about a mom, Cadence, of an energetic young boy who aspires to be perfect. She wants to provide her child with the idealistic life full of love, understanding and perfection. Sounds like 98% of all women who become Moms. What happens to Cadence is that when her life isn’t idealistic, she becomes dependent upon wine as a self-medicating tool. It’s a familiar tool for Moms across the board. What happens to Cadence is that it snuck up on her. One glass became two, which became a bottle, which evolved into multiple bottles. Reading the slow destruction of her life is painful. Hatvany writes this demise so realistic that the reader understands and comprehends the ease at which it evolves. Suddenly Cadence is in such a hole, her husband takes her son away from her and she ends up in rehab. This is a story most women can relate to and think to themselves: by the grace of God go I. Drinking wine and motherhood almost goes hand in hand these days in our society. And being women, our metabolism is such that it becomes easy to become unexpectedly tipsy. Add to that the pressure women place on themselves to be the perfect mother, addictive behavior is easily attained. It may not be alcohol, but it could be eating, shopping, or working. It’s a theme most Moms related to.
What I enjoyed about this novel is that it called me out on my own judgmental ideas of women who lose children due to alcoholism. This novel made me embarrassed about my previous judgments and has made me understand and feel compassion towards these women. This is a novel that begs the readers to reflect on their own harsh judgments of people who suffer any addiction. Hatvany makes these people real. And her story makes the reader realize that we are all a hair away from falling into that trap. In addition, she explores the genetic component that is not always known.
This is a beautiful book that is thought provoking and real. I highly recommend it for those who have addictive people in their lives and want to understand them better. It’s also a great read if you admit to yourself that you have been one to quickly judge. Amy Hatvany is now becoming one of my favored “quick read” yet provocative authors.
November 9, 2013
Cadence didn't set out to become an alcoholic. She had recently divorced Martin (a mommy's boy) and was having trouble sleeping, dealing with a young child, and struggling financially. She would just have a glass of wine at night to help her sleep. A glass of wine turned to 2 bottles of wine per night before long. She didn't see that she had a problem. One night she was out of wine and left her young son at home by himself to run and grab a bottle (I didn't like her much then) The author did not pretty up Cadence's character. She made her real. She could be you or I.
Eventually Cadence does lose control and her ex husband takes her child. She ends up in rehab and begins seeking help. The author of this book does an amazing job of taking you through the process of alcoholism's recovery. You cheer for this character and you cry with her.
If you have known someone that struggles with alcohol's grip or have been there yourself this book is amazing. Aww heck it's amazing anyways.
Eventually Cadence does lose control and her ex husband takes her child. She ends up in rehab and begins seeking help. The author of this book does an amazing job of taking you through the process of alcoholism's recovery. You cheer for this character and you cry with her.
If you have known someone that struggles with alcohol's grip or have been there yourself this book is amazing. Aww heck it's amazing anyways.
March 13, 2014
Anyway. Really enjoying this book. I do think she spoiled her son rotten and the boy behaved rude.
read 46 % now
-------------------------------------
A Very Personal Review
Finished this morning and yes a very interesting book.
What I liked most is that it was quite realistic as well.
Sometimes it did feel a bit like advertisement for the AA. I am sure they loved the book ;)
Oh who am I fooling? I did too! I love when a book feels real cause that does not happen often enough. From the first pages I was captured by this story.
I think I have some say if a book about addiction feels real cause I used to be addicted. Well I am still an addict only I managed to kick it in 1999 but it is still a red line in my life cause it changes who you are.
Wow this is the first time I am telling my secret. The thing is, I do not feel ashamed anymore but I want to protect my parents cause they might feel embarrassed. They never read my reviews and I feel it is time to stop hiding.
I think there must be so may people that have an addiction or know people that have. I know how ashamed they feel but they should not.It is an illness. (I am still angry at myself sometimes even though I know it is a disease)
There were a few notes I made.
One was that I was surprised at how much she played with her son. It made me feel like a bad mother in a way but I think what she was doing was not realistic. To constantly play with your child and never let him play alone,never tell him no does not seem healthy to me, but maybe I just did not have the energy. ;)
So yes I can understand if you are a single mum (which I am too) and you are constantly with your child you need to let your hair down, so in it the story was quite true.
It was very funny then when I read this...."I've always encouraged Charlie to be as independent of me as possible,to learn to do things for himself"
WTH!!!
Lol. It felt really like this. What the hell? hahaha
Anyway some other notes I made while reading:
*I am exhausted of thinking,of examining every tiny scrap of information and emotion that flows through me. I long for a shut of switch for my brain. A way to halt the never ending supply of synaptic chatter"
This is something I have wished for so often. That is the main reason why I became an addict. It stopped my thoughts. it stopped the endless chatter. I am still suffering from the chatter in my head but have found other ways to deal with it, like reading.
There was a moment I really did not like Charlie.
"I do Not! Charlie screeches,the slender chords in his neck standing out like rope.Don't call me a freak"
As I mentioned spoiled.
Another very interesting thing the AA (Promises?) apparently has a very good rule see this quote.
* "We are not allowed to give her a tissue, at promises. it is taught that interrupting a person's emotional processing in this way quashing its resolution"
This is so true. I cannot count on my hands and feet how many times when I cried people touched me or gave me a tissue which immediately made me stop crying. It brings you back in your body and in your head and out of your heart.
Another quote about the A reflected very good my thoughts on it.
"I'm not religious and when I am told I do not have to accept an organized religion version of a higher power,apparently, I can choose a doorknob if I want to,when the word "God" is thrown around these rooms like confetti, it's difficult to imagine any other concept. I have a hard time feeling like I fit in with all of this.
It's a little cultish,really they way they talk about turning their will and their lives over to some invisible spirit. It goes against everything I grew up believing about the self-sufficient woman I should be."
I can relate to that cause even though I was baptized I am not religious which is the norm in my country but it does make me feel squishy. Here if you talk about God people will think you are a lunatic. lol
There was one time when a group of people who believed in some kind of God forgot who told me they would save me. After one night having to sleep on the floor between 2 people I hardly knew (no dirty things or so) holding my hand I ran.
Okay to wrap it all up. I really enjoyed this book cause not only could I relate but it felt real and I am sure even if you cannot relate you will very much enjoy it.
Rating this is not hard but I am hesitating between a 4 or a 5. 4.5 for me cause it touched me so 5 stars.
read 46 % now
-------------------------------------
A Very Personal Review
Finished this morning and yes a very interesting book.
What I liked most is that it was quite realistic as well.
Sometimes it did feel a bit like advertisement for the AA. I am sure they loved the book ;)
Oh who am I fooling? I did too! I love when a book feels real cause that does not happen often enough. From the first pages I was captured by this story.
I think I have some say if a book about addiction feels real cause I used to be addicted. Well I am still an addict only I managed to kick it in 1999 but it is still a red line in my life cause it changes who you are.
Wow this is the first time I am telling my secret. The thing is, I do not feel ashamed anymore but I want to protect my parents cause they might feel embarrassed. They never read my reviews and I feel it is time to stop hiding.
I think there must be so may people that have an addiction or know people that have. I know how ashamed they feel but they should not.It is an illness. (I am still angry at myself sometimes even though I know it is a disease)
There were a few notes I made.
One was that I was surprised at how much she played with her son. It made me feel like a bad mother in a way but I think what she was doing was not realistic. To constantly play with your child and never let him play alone,never tell him no does not seem healthy to me, but maybe I just did not have the energy. ;)
So yes I can understand if you are a single mum (which I am too) and you are constantly with your child you need to let your hair down, so in it the story was quite true.
It was very funny then when I read this...."I've always encouraged Charlie to be as independent of me as possible,to learn to do things for himself"
WTH!!!
Lol. It felt really like this. What the hell? hahaha
Anyway some other notes I made while reading:
*I am exhausted of thinking,of examining every tiny scrap of information and emotion that flows through me. I long for a shut of switch for my brain. A way to halt the never ending supply of synaptic chatter"
This is something I have wished for so often. That is the main reason why I became an addict. It stopped my thoughts. it stopped the endless chatter. I am still suffering from the chatter in my head but have found other ways to deal with it, like reading.
There was a moment I really did not like Charlie.
"I do Not! Charlie screeches,the slender chords in his neck standing out like rope.Don't call me a freak"
As I mentioned spoiled.
Another very interesting thing the AA (Promises?) apparently has a very good rule see this quote.
* "We are not allowed to give her a tissue, at promises. it is taught that interrupting a person's emotional processing in this way quashing its resolution"
This is so true. I cannot count on my hands and feet how many times when I cried people touched me or gave me a tissue which immediately made me stop crying. It brings you back in your body and in your head and out of your heart.
Another quote about the A reflected very good my thoughts on it.
"I'm not religious and when I am told I do not have to accept an organized religion version of a higher power,apparently, I can choose a doorknob if I want to,when the word "God" is thrown around these rooms like confetti, it's difficult to imagine any other concept. I have a hard time feeling like I fit in with all of this.
It's a little cultish,really they way they talk about turning their will and their lives over to some invisible spirit. It goes against everything I grew up believing about the self-sufficient woman I should be."
I can relate to that cause even though I was baptized I am not religious which is the norm in my country but it does make me feel squishy. Here if you talk about God people will think you are a lunatic. lol
There was one time when a group of people who believed in some kind of God forgot who told me they would save me. After one night having to sleep on the floor between 2 people I hardly knew (no dirty things or so) holding my hand I ran.
Okay to wrap it all up. I really enjoyed this book cause not only could I relate but it felt real and I am sure even if you cannot relate you will very much enjoy it.
Rating this is not hard but I am hesitating between a 4 or a 5. 4.5 for me cause it touched me so 5 stars.
August 4, 2011
4 1/2 but I can see why this book has received all 4 and 5 ratings. I got so emotionally caught up in this book, it was a brutally honest portrayal of a woman who descends into alcoholism putting herself and her son in jeopardy and her attempt to climb back out. Plus I love the characters name, Cadence.
October 11, 2011
A couple of months ago I picked up this book on the library shelf and flipped through it to get an idea of the content. I decided that I wasn't much interested in the subject matter and put it back. A couple of days ago I picked put he same book and took another look at it because it has a compelling cover. I checked it out with about six other books and thought I would take a closer look at it at home and would probably abandon it, after all. The minute I read the first paragraph, I couldn't stop turning the pages.
Cadence is a young mom, for the first time, to an adorable but precocious five year old son named Charlie. This kid is super energetic and demands constant attention. Meanwhile, Cadence's husband decides to spend many more hours with his job, leaving almost no time with his family. When Cadence asks him to try marriage counseling as a way to save their marriage, he refuses and abandons them even more. Cadence files for divorce and because of the stress of being alone with her child and trying to keep her career going as a journalist, she has an occasional night time glass of Merlot to help her sleep. Even though she feels like it sneaks up on her, she quickly spirals down into the depths of the pit of alcoholism. She later refers to it as a state of incomprehensible demoralization and then says, "We are only as sick as our secrets". She drinks from morning to night and passes out in front of her child. She even leaves Charlie alone one night to go to the liquor store to buy more supplies to feed her demons. Her sister, Jess, finds her passed out in front of Charlie and calls his father to come get him. He quickly gets custody of their child and Cadence goes into a treatment center. This starts her long and harrowing climb to sobriety and to regain custody of her beloved son. Along the way she finds out family secrets that help her understand her disease and between the support of family and friends she has hope that she will be able to deal with the shame and prejudice of people that think a drinking mom is right up there with being a whore. (The author's words not mine.)
It is a courageous story based on the author's own life. It is frighteningly real and doesn't mince words about the lasting effects of alcoholism for everyone concerned. It is scary because it could happen to anyone. I will never look at a glass of wine in the same way that I did before I read this book. I think this novel will relate to any one who has raised a child and known the bonds of love for that child can never be broken, no matter what happens. I think Amy Hatvany, is a very brave woman to be able to let go of her secret by the telling of it in her novel. I also think this story will touch the hearts of many, many women and help those who need help with their own issues whether it's drinking, or masking those feeling with some other addiction like food or drugs, and the list goes on. I had a hard time with the last one hundred pages because my eyes kept blurring from tears and I couldn't read. The author has an uncanny ability to pull you in and cause you to feel her pain and her triumphs through her words. I cannot praise this novel enough, just read it and you'll see what I mean.
Cadence is a young mom, for the first time, to an adorable but precocious five year old son named Charlie. This kid is super energetic and demands constant attention. Meanwhile, Cadence's husband decides to spend many more hours with his job, leaving almost no time with his family. When Cadence asks him to try marriage counseling as a way to save their marriage, he refuses and abandons them even more. Cadence files for divorce and because of the stress of being alone with her child and trying to keep her career going as a journalist, she has an occasional night time glass of Merlot to help her sleep. Even though she feels like it sneaks up on her, she quickly spirals down into the depths of the pit of alcoholism. She later refers to it as a state of incomprehensible demoralization and then says, "We are only as sick as our secrets". She drinks from morning to night and passes out in front of her child. She even leaves Charlie alone one night to go to the liquor store to buy more supplies to feed her demons. Her sister, Jess, finds her passed out in front of Charlie and calls his father to come get him. He quickly gets custody of their child and Cadence goes into a treatment center. This starts her long and harrowing climb to sobriety and to regain custody of her beloved son. Along the way she finds out family secrets that help her understand her disease and between the support of family and friends she has hope that she will be able to deal with the shame and prejudice of people that think a drinking mom is right up there with being a whore. (The author's words not mine.)
It is a courageous story based on the author's own life. It is frighteningly real and doesn't mince words about the lasting effects of alcoholism for everyone concerned. It is scary because it could happen to anyone. I will never look at a glass of wine in the same way that I did before I read this book. I think this novel will relate to any one who has raised a child and known the bonds of love for that child can never be broken, no matter what happens. I think Amy Hatvany, is a very brave woman to be able to let go of her secret by the telling of it in her novel. I also think this story will touch the hearts of many, many women and help those who need help with their own issues whether it's drinking, or masking those feeling with some other addiction like food or drugs, and the list goes on. I had a hard time with the last one hundred pages because my eyes kept blurring from tears and I couldn't read. The author has an uncanny ability to pull you in and cause you to feel her pain and her triumphs through her words. I cannot praise this novel enough, just read it and you'll see what I mean.
November 13, 2011
When I first started reading this book, I was instantly on the defense. Being a recovering alcoholic and a single mother, I was really curious to know if this book was written by "one of us", or if it was penned by an imposter, whose only experience with this disease was watching reruns of Intervention. Once I had satisfied myself that this was indeed written by someone who "knows", I was able to open up and let this story in.
Alcoholism has a voice. It is loud. It is constant. And it lives in my head. It tells me in a million ways how I am bad, how I am never good enough, and how nothing will ever matter anyway... So I should just go ahead and drink. I can do it this time. But "this time" is never better than the last time, it always gets worse. Amy Hatvany did an amazing thing when she was able to give the voice of the disease a realistic expression in this story. She was able to convey how truly baffling and insidious this disease can be, what it's like to lose the power of having a choice. And how horrifying it is to want to be able to "just stop drinking" with everything inside, and not understanding that you crossed an invisible line somewhere along the way that makes it impossible for you to stop.
She also gave an amazing illustration of how recovery starts for so many of us. The desire to stay seperate from the group. The uncomfortable feeling of where to sit at a meeting to get out before anyone notices you. The mistakes we make, and how we have to learn to deal with them. The lonliness. The confusion. The fear. And then, finally, the idea that maybe, just maybe, I can let these people help me stay sober for just today. Just a small seed planted that says I might be able to do this thing... with some help...
I wondered as I finished reading this how many people would read this book, thinking it is "just a book", and find themselves finding themselves... I know I am incredibly grateful to have picked this one off the shelf. I needed a reminder of where I came from, and where I can end up if I am not taking the actions that are suggested.
Thank you for the reminder, Amy.
Alcoholism has a voice. It is loud. It is constant. And it lives in my head. It tells me in a million ways how I am bad, how I am never good enough, and how nothing will ever matter anyway... So I should just go ahead and drink. I can do it this time. But "this time" is never better than the last time, it always gets worse. Amy Hatvany did an amazing thing when she was able to give the voice of the disease a realistic expression in this story. She was able to convey how truly baffling and insidious this disease can be, what it's like to lose the power of having a choice. And how horrifying it is to want to be able to "just stop drinking" with everything inside, and not understanding that you crossed an invisible line somewhere along the way that makes it impossible for you to stop.
She also gave an amazing illustration of how recovery starts for so many of us. The desire to stay seperate from the group. The uncomfortable feeling of where to sit at a meeting to get out before anyone notices you. The mistakes we make, and how we have to learn to deal with them. The lonliness. The confusion. The fear. And then, finally, the idea that maybe, just maybe, I can let these people help me stay sober for just today. Just a small seed planted that says I might be able to do this thing... with some help...
I wondered as I finished reading this how many people would read this book, thinking it is "just a book", and find themselves finding themselves... I know I am incredibly grateful to have picked this one off the shelf. I needed a reminder of where I came from, and where I can end up if I am not taking the actions that are suggested.
Thank you for the reminder, Amy.
March 26, 2017
Recently, I read Amy’s latest book, “Heart Like Mine” and loved it, so working my way back as want to read all her books, as she has been added to my favorite author list. I love her writing style and her subject matter --the way her characters come alive. I did not want to put this book down (it was amazing)! I had a lot of work and appointments this week, so anxiously awaited my quiet reading time to find out what obstacle Cadence was to overcome next.
Hats off to the author for putting herself out there to help other women with this inspiring and poignant story of the everyday and realistic struggles of alcoholism and motherhood.
Every woman, whether old or young, mother, single, aunt, sister – needs to read this book. There are so many addictions out there today which are as bad as alcoholism; unfortunately, they do not have the stigma attached (shopping, pill popping, workaholics, eating disorders, and many compulsive disorders which wreak havoc on lives of women daily which are sometimes hidden) as they try and keep up to be the “perfect” woman.
There are many takeaways from this book and a lesson for us all in some way or another. We all have problems and sometimes we cannot turn around our life until we help someone less fortunate. In doing so, we help them as much as ourselves by opening our hearts to accept new things, as we broaden and enrich our lives.
On a personal note: I have a beautiful, driven, and successful girlfriend (single), who has been through some rough times and has turned to alcohol and Xanax to cope for years. Her mother was an alcoholic and died years ago. Unfortunately, my friend has not faced her problem yet. She gets angry when drinking and drives away everyone close to her. She believes every day is happy hour at 5 pm and this is the norm. Her life is spiraling downhill and she has turned away so many friends who have tried to help. This book helped me to realize these friends need our love, support, compassion, and no judgments. I look forward to sharing this book.
I loved Jess (the sister), her humor and personality and the way she supported her sister. Even her mother came through for her in the end. Oh, Charlie —I just wanted to reach out and hug him as he was adorable.
Again, thank you, Amy, for your candidness in writing such a powerful book which I cannot wait to pass along to my friends. I highly recommend as this is a 5 Star+++.
Hats off to the author for putting herself out there to help other women with this inspiring and poignant story of the everyday and realistic struggles of alcoholism and motherhood.
Every woman, whether old or young, mother, single, aunt, sister – needs to read this book. There are so many addictions out there today which are as bad as alcoholism; unfortunately, they do not have the stigma attached (shopping, pill popping, workaholics, eating disorders, and many compulsive disorders which wreak havoc on lives of women daily which are sometimes hidden) as they try and keep up to be the “perfect” woman.
There are many takeaways from this book and a lesson for us all in some way or another. We all have problems and sometimes we cannot turn around our life until we help someone less fortunate. In doing so, we help them as much as ourselves by opening our hearts to accept new things, as we broaden and enrich our lives.
On a personal note: I have a beautiful, driven, and successful girlfriend (single), who has been through some rough times and has turned to alcohol and Xanax to cope for years. Her mother was an alcoholic and died years ago. Unfortunately, my friend has not faced her problem yet. She gets angry when drinking and drives away everyone close to her. She believes every day is happy hour at 5 pm and this is the norm. Her life is spiraling downhill and she has turned away so many friends who have tried to help. This book helped me to realize these friends need our love, support, compassion, and no judgments. I look forward to sharing this book.
I loved Jess (the sister), her humor and personality and the way she supported her sister. Even her mother came through for her in the end. Oh, Charlie —I just wanted to reach out and hug him as he was adorable.
Again, thank you, Amy, for your candidness in writing such a powerful book which I cannot wait to pass along to my friends. I highly recommend as this is a 5 Star+++.
February 19, 2024
Another great book by Amy Hatvany! Best Kept Secret felt so real and emotional. Cadence's story sucked me in and I was rooting for her sobriety. At one point, I was yelling at her (well...the audiobook) not to pick up another drink. LOL. I need to read more of this author's work.
October 18, 2014
Best Kept Secret: A Novel, written by Amy Hatvany, is a hugely powerful novel that focuses on a mother's demise into alcoholism while being divorced from her husband and clinging to custody of her young son. Cadence Sutter is a journalist that is married to Martin and mother to her five-year-old son, Charlie. The couple end up getting divorced because Martin is constantly working an extremely excessive amount of hours with his job at Microsoft, and Cadence realizes that he is no longer around for her or her son. His job means everything to him. As a result of their divorce, her constant lack of self-worth and stressful job of being a freelance reporter along with being a full-time mom, Cadence's drinking, which was at one time social, turns into a way to wake up and survive each and every day. This novel is loosely based on author Amy Hatvany's dark and equally dismal days of alcholism. Ms. Hatvany projects Cadence's character as a somewhat pathetic but sorrowful alcoholic who will not admit that she has a destructive addiction that is hurting her family, herself, and especially her son. Charlie is the reason that she awakens every day and searches for a way to persevere through this most grim and hopeless time. Her ex-husband, Martin, eventually removes her son from her care, and the ultimate finale of the novel answers the question as to who Charlie will live with. Cadence also has an unsettled relationship with her mother whereby she always fears that she is not good enough and that she is deemed "crazy" just like her grandmother. It was very touching as her mother, Sharon, ended up telling her daughter the real reason why she was always so reserved and not very loving towards her oldest daughter. It brought them to a very pivotal understanding, which would now allow them to heal emotionally towards each other. With the closely supportive help from her sister, Jessica, her group of friends from AA, and her newly appointed sponsor, Nadine, Cadence overcomes her damaging self-destructive behavior and begins her road to recovery...a work that is always in progress. The author tells the story that leads to the decisive climax in a series of flashbacks that will in turn come to Cadence's admittal that "Yes, I am an Alcoholic"...a triumph in its own. A moving and sometimes tearful account of an addiction that probably claims notice in an exorbitant amount of families. Read the novel that might help someone admit that they or someone they know, has this deeply debilitating disease. A novel not to be missed!
February 10, 2017
3.5 stars. I enjoyed this audio-book, the narrator did a good job and the story kept my attention. I learned a lot about alcoholism, the explanations formed part of the story, and I never felt like I was being info-bombed. I loved the authors descriptions, on being asked by her son what alcoholism is she explains to him that it is an allergy to alcohol, and that the allergic reaction is the inability to stop drinking. I really felt empathy for Caydence and the other moms - this book serves as a reminder to never judge other people if you don't know what they are going through. My only criticism is that I wish Charlie were less perfect. I will definitely try more by this author.
June 12, 2012
Great read,i really cried with Cadence,yes for a while she was lost but once she realizes she is about to lose Charlie she starts to redeem herself,gets help and tries to overcome her addiction.I was really angry at first when Cadence lost she should be given a second chance,she is broken but yet again she picks herself up,whatever little time she has got with Charlie she makes it up with it.
Martin was right when he took Charlie when Cadence became addicted,i also understood his filing the case but later on when he saw she was redeeming herself he should have supported her and given her a chance.
Some beliefs and hypocritical actions of our society was perfectly highlighted,i come from a "Male Dominant Society",so i know there is ample of second chances given to men but a woman is not given a second chance at all,she is judged harshly and looked down.It angered me so much the injustice shown towards her,completely understood Cadence's emotions and what she was going through.
This book takes you on a emotional roller coaster,the author brought out Cadence's loneliness,pains,fears and anger very well.I was into the book from page one till the end.It is a must read.
Overall a very good read
Recommend it.
Martin was right when he took Charlie when Cadence became addicted,i also understood his filing the case but later on when he saw she was redeeming herself he should have supported her and given her a chance.
Some beliefs and hypocritical actions of our society was perfectly highlighted,i come from a "Male Dominant Society",so i know there is ample of second chances given to men but a woman is not given a second chance at all,she is judged harshly and looked down.It angered me so much the injustice shown towards her,completely understood Cadence's emotions and what she was going through.
This book takes you on a emotional roller coaster,the author brought out Cadence's loneliness,pains,fears and anger very well.I was into the book from page one till the end.It is a must read.
Overall a very good read
Recommend it.
January 6, 2011
On the surface, Best Kept Secret might simply seem like another story of addiction. And, indeed, it is a raw examination of a woman in crisis, an honest and aching portrait of an addict who almost loses everything when her life spirals out of control. However, what makes this novel entirely original, is its fearless exploration of the place where addiction and motherhood intersect. What made me love Cadence was not her struggle with alcohol, but her fierce love for her child. This novel is a testament to the power of a mother’s love. Hatvany goes places in this novel that other, less courageous, writers might fear to tread. And I suspect this story will resonate with more women, more mothers, than this author might ever know.
May 16, 2024
Oh my god, such a brutally honest look at alcoholism and what it does to everyone involved. Definitely 5 stars.
October 9, 2017
It was a few years before I started getting into Amy Hatvany’s novels, so I missed Best Kept Secret the first time around. I finally decided to check it out and I’m so glad I did! This is an incredibly powerful and touching novel that I think everyone needs to read. Amy added a personal touch to it, which makes it even more meaningful to read.
The story is so accessible and serves as a cautionary tale. Cadence could be any one of us at any time. I could relate to her, even though I have no desire to drink alcohol (other than a small amount during religious ritual/holiday meals). There were just so many other things that reminded me of myself or my own life. Even though I couldn't relate to everything Cadence went through that led up to her alcoholism, I still felt sympathy toward her and was rooting for her the entire time. The story kept me guessing as to where things would go and never felt predictable.
The interactions between characters were genuine and realistic. It was also easy to visualize the characters and settings, even though I’ve never been to Seattle.
I highly recommend this novel. I finished it a few days ago and can’t stop thinking about it.
Dream movie cast:
Cadence: Kether Donohue
Jess: Lyndsy Fonseca
Martin: Ben Lawson
Sharon: Margaret Colin
Vince: Jake Johnson
Nadine: Kathy Bates
Alice: Kathy Baker
The story is so accessible and serves as a cautionary tale. Cadence could be any one of us at any time. I could relate to her, even though I have no desire to drink alcohol (other than a small amount during religious ritual/holiday meals). There were just so many other things that reminded me of myself or my own life. Even though I couldn't relate to everything Cadence went through that led up to her alcoholism, I still felt sympathy toward her and was rooting for her the entire time. The story kept me guessing as to where things would go and never felt predictable.
The interactions between characters were genuine and realistic. It was also easy to visualize the characters and settings, even though I’ve never been to Seattle.
I highly recommend this novel. I finished it a few days ago and can’t stop thinking about it.
Dream movie cast:
Cadence: Kether Donohue
Jess: Lyndsy Fonseca
Martin: Ben Lawson
Sharon: Margaret Colin
Vince: Jake Johnson
Nadine: Kathy Bates
Alice: Kathy Baker
June 24, 2011
"Best Kept Secret might simply seem like another story of addiction. And, it is a raw examination of a woman in crisis, an honest and aching portrait of an addict who almost loses everything when her life spirals out of control. However, what makes this novel entirely original, is its fearless exploration of the place where addiction and motherhood intersect. What made me love Cadence was not her struggle with alcohol, but her fierce love for her child. This novel is a testament to the power of a mother’s love. Hatvany goes places in this novel that other, less courageous, writers might fear to tread. And I suspect this story will resonate with more women, more mothers, than this author might ever know."
July 29, 2017
This was a great book and Ms. Hatvany is a wonderful author. This was an incredibly moving account of one woman's journey through alcoholism. In the beginning of the book, we meet Cadence who is juggling all of the responsibilities that go along with being a single mother. She recently divorced from her husband, and they share joint custody of their son, Charlie. When it seems like too much for Cadence, she has a glass of wine. That glass over time, turns into two..then three..and so on. This story sheds light on the topic of alcoholism and the stigma that goes along with it, especially for women with children. This was a very heavy story at times, but a very engrossing and captivating novel nonetheless.
December 21, 2012
This book was a little slow for me. Cadence is a woman who had a drinking problem. She she drinks too often in front of her son, she realizes she needs to get help but at what cost? I did like the writing style but lost a bit of interest around page 200 but kept at it till the end.
March 30, 2017
Hatvany is the best at showing and not telling emotions. Best Kept Secret was very eye opening. It shows you how people can spiral to find themselves in such a bad place and why it's always worth it to give them a second chance. I have much love for this woman and the books that she writes. If anybody can write about a hard and potentially controversial topic and handle it well, it's this girl.
July 9, 2011
Best Kept Secret is a novel that has broken one of Chick Lit’s taboos. It’s what appealed to me in the first place, it’s why I brought the novel. Chick Lit novels cover a wide range of topics, but there are some topics that are rarely touched upon. Apart from Rachel’s Holiday by Marian Keyes, I have not read a Chick Lit novel that features its main character being a drug addict/alcoholic. It’s always the father of the character, or the mother, or the brother. It’s as if we wouldn’t be able to connect with a main character if she was flawed. It’s something that bugs me hugely. I want to read books that deal with real and proper problems – alcohol, drugs, weight issues and the like. I want to root for someone recovering from alcoholism, I want to see it portrayed properly, I want a heroine who isn’t stick-thin and beautiful and perfect. Amy Hatvany has knocked it out of the park with Best Kept Secret. I’d love to chat to Amy about why she wrote this novel and how she managed to make it not be all about the alcoholism. How she managed to make it a balanced but very informative read.
The fact is, I’m fairly sure there are a lot of mothers out there who struggle with what Cadence struggles with. I do hate that there’s a stigma attached that means (although fictional) that Cadence is judged as a person because of the disease she suffers from. I’m not saying alcoholism is right, but I’m saying it isn’t the be all and end all. I found Cadence’s story to be enticing. As Cadence herself says, “I didn’t sit down one night and decide that downing two bottles of wine was a brilliant idea.” No, it wasn’t like that. She didn’t ‘decide’ to become addicted to alcohol, she didn’t ‘decide’ to get so drunk she regularly passed out even though her young son Charlie was there, but on the other hand, Cadence didn’t have to go out one night and leave her son alone when she went to buy more booze. Best Kept Secret explores it all. It explores the good and the bad to alcoholism, it doesn’t sugar-coat Cadence’s problems and I found it to be a very real read. As Cadence struggles to beat her demons, she also has to convince lawyers that she is the one who should have primary care of her son, Charlie, and not her ex-husband Martin who got custody when Cadence went into treatment.
What originally drew me to the novel was, obviously, the synopsis but also the cover. It’s a very moody, atmospheric cover, showing a blurry figure in a red dress being shown holding a glass of wine through a rain-streaked window. It doesn’t look like a Chick Lit novel, but I am inordinately pleased I purchased the book because it was literally unputdownable. I don’t put much stock in author praise for novels – I think most author quotes are fake (without offending any authors, of course – it’s just amazing how many authors love so many books) but each and every author who praised Best Kept Secret was spot-on. There are two pages full of quotes and they’re all spot-on. Cadence’s story is one many mums and many people will be able to recognise and see possibly in their own lives. I found it incredibly absorbing, it’s one of those novels that will stay after you long after you’ve gone. With the wonderful characters – honestly, the characters are brilliant, Cadence in particular. Sure she’s flawed, sure she’s done wrong things, but her fightback from alcoholism is admirable. It doesn’t matter how someone becomes alcoholic in the first place, it’s what they do afterwards to pull themselves back that matters the most and Cadence was desperate to get herself better and I admired that.
Amy Hatvany’s writing is exquisite. That’s the best way for me to describe it. The way she portrays Cadence is brilliant and she gets it spot-on because I rooted for Cadence. I rooted for her. The love Cadence has for her son Charlie made my heart ache. I’ve honestly ran out of superlatives for this amazing novel. Honestly, I applaud Amy Hatvany for writing this novel, for taking a Chick Lit taboo and making it into an utterly amazing novel. It’s gripping, it’s compelling, it’s heart-wrenching and I just can’t get my head around just how sensitively Hatvany portrayed alcoholism but also managed to keep it real. She managed to portray alcoholism not as some glamorous thing and not as something that only happens to people who live under bridges clutching brown paper bags. Alcoholism can happen to anyone, even mothers like Cadence who have a pretty good life. I’ll certainly be eagerly awaiting Amy Hatvany’s next novel, she’s hugely talented and I’d definitely recommend you pick up Best Kept Secret. Do it! You won’t regret it.
The fact is, I’m fairly sure there are a lot of mothers out there who struggle with what Cadence struggles with. I do hate that there’s a stigma attached that means (although fictional) that Cadence is judged as a person because of the disease she suffers from. I’m not saying alcoholism is right, but I’m saying it isn’t the be all and end all. I found Cadence’s story to be enticing. As Cadence herself says, “I didn’t sit down one night and decide that downing two bottles of wine was a brilliant idea.” No, it wasn’t like that. She didn’t ‘decide’ to become addicted to alcohol, she didn’t ‘decide’ to get so drunk she regularly passed out even though her young son Charlie was there, but on the other hand, Cadence didn’t have to go out one night and leave her son alone when she went to buy more booze. Best Kept Secret explores it all. It explores the good and the bad to alcoholism, it doesn’t sugar-coat Cadence’s problems and I found it to be a very real read. As Cadence struggles to beat her demons, she also has to convince lawyers that she is the one who should have primary care of her son, Charlie, and not her ex-husband Martin who got custody when Cadence went into treatment.
What originally drew me to the novel was, obviously, the synopsis but also the cover. It’s a very moody, atmospheric cover, showing a blurry figure in a red dress being shown holding a glass of wine through a rain-streaked window. It doesn’t look like a Chick Lit novel, but I am inordinately pleased I purchased the book because it was literally unputdownable. I don’t put much stock in author praise for novels – I think most author quotes are fake (without offending any authors, of course – it’s just amazing how many authors love so many books) but each and every author who praised Best Kept Secret was spot-on. There are two pages full of quotes and they’re all spot-on. Cadence’s story is one many mums and many people will be able to recognise and see possibly in their own lives. I found it incredibly absorbing, it’s one of those novels that will stay after you long after you’ve gone. With the wonderful characters – honestly, the characters are brilliant, Cadence in particular. Sure she’s flawed, sure she’s done wrong things, but her fightback from alcoholism is admirable. It doesn’t matter how someone becomes alcoholic in the first place, it’s what they do afterwards to pull themselves back that matters the most and Cadence was desperate to get herself better and I admired that.
Amy Hatvany’s writing is exquisite. That’s the best way for me to describe it. The way she portrays Cadence is brilliant and she gets it spot-on because I rooted for Cadence. I rooted for her. The love Cadence has for her son Charlie made my heart ache. I’ve honestly ran out of superlatives for this amazing novel. Honestly, I applaud Amy Hatvany for writing this novel, for taking a Chick Lit taboo and making it into an utterly amazing novel. It’s gripping, it’s compelling, it’s heart-wrenching and I just can’t get my head around just how sensitively Hatvany portrayed alcoholism but also managed to keep it real. She managed to portray alcoholism not as some glamorous thing and not as something that only happens to people who live under bridges clutching brown paper bags. Alcoholism can happen to anyone, even mothers like Cadence who have a pretty good life. I’ll certainly be eagerly awaiting Amy Hatvany’s next novel, she’s hugely talented and I’d definitely recommend you pick up Best Kept Secret. Do it! You won’t regret it.
August 11, 2011
This is another book that I never would have voluntarily picked up without any outside forces. Yet again, I found myself being friends with a Goodreads author that I had never heard of, but felt compelled to read her novel. (the fact that she and I shared similar tastes in books encouraged this). When I requested it from the library it was on order, so being the first person to receive it was quite a novelty!!!
I'm not quite sure what genre I would classify this as, it had a strong "chic lit" feel to it, but the story was much deeper than that of your typical light and fluffy chic read. I gave this 4 stars only because the writing was so good. Not being an alcoholic myself, or really knowing one who is, it was quite difficult for me to relate to the main character. It's hard to really love a book if you find yourself struggling to relate to the characters. However, in spite of my lack of relation to the main character I couldn't put the book down. Amy's prose are so well written that at times I felt myself getting nauseous at parts and could feel Cadence's fear and dread. Sometimes it made me so uncomfortable I had to walk away from the book and take a breath.
Definitely would read this author again.
I'm not quite sure what genre I would classify this as, it had a strong "chic lit" feel to it, but the story was much deeper than that of your typical light and fluffy chic read. I gave this 4 stars only because the writing was so good. Not being an alcoholic myself, or really knowing one who is, it was quite difficult for me to relate to the main character. It's hard to really love a book if you find yourself struggling to relate to the characters. However, in spite of my lack of relation to the main character I couldn't put the book down. Amy's prose are so well written that at times I felt myself getting nauseous at parts and could feel Cadence's fear and dread. Sometimes it made me so uncomfortable I had to walk away from the book and take a breath.
Definitely would read this author again.
January 12, 2011
Have an ARC of this book - lucky me! This is a genuine, heartfelt novel about a mother struggling to do it all, but most of all struggling with her alcoholism. I’m actually surprised there haven’t been more books on this topic. It’s so pervasive yet it's so incredibly taboo, which is, I guess, why there haven’t been more books! The author nails the voice of Cadence and makes her a believable, highly likable, and sympathetic character, even when she’s doing something anyone would consider “bad.” She is also relatable regardless of whether the reader has experienced addiction.
In addition, the author does a fantastic job of subtly showing the ironies of parenthood, motherhood, and life in general. Two people with alcohol addictions and the one who goes to rehab is shunned when she’s the one getting help. A dad sees his kid every other weekend and it’s totally acceptable. A mom sees hers every other weekend and she clearly “has problems” or “did something.” I loved the mix of humor and seriousness and, most importantly, how messy this was, but in a good way. There are happy endings yet there is still sadness. There are redemptions but they are not clean. In other words, it’s just like life. Overall, this is an extremely moving book that had me thinking about people I know and even the ways in which I’ve bought into the societal/maternal ironies. This would make an excellent book club selection and I predict it will be a future book club hit!
In addition, the author does a fantastic job of subtly showing the ironies of parenthood, motherhood, and life in general. Two people with alcohol addictions and the one who goes to rehab is shunned when she’s the one getting help. A dad sees his kid every other weekend and it’s totally acceptable. A mom sees hers every other weekend and she clearly “has problems” or “did something.” I loved the mix of humor and seriousness and, most importantly, how messy this was, but in a good way. There are happy endings yet there is still sadness. There are redemptions but they are not clean. In other words, it’s just like life. Overall, this is an extremely moving book that had me thinking about people I know and even the ways in which I’ve bought into the societal/maternal ironies. This would make an excellent book club selection and I predict it will be a future book club hit!
January 29, 2012
I was first "introduced" to Amy Hatvany via Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) networking. I have not met her in person, have not met her at any HR-related events, and most likely couldnt pick her out of a lineup. But hey, we have a profession in common! At least until her book writing becomes lucrative enough to walk away from the glamorous world of personnel.
Best Kept Secret chronicles mom Cadence's struggle with alcoholism, divorce, and losing custody of her son due to her drinking. The book itself is well written, and conveys the highs, lows, confusion, and confliction faced by the main character. I found Cadence difficult to relate to, as I can't relate to exact emotional states. But the character development was well enough that I was rooting for her.
The book doesn't venture off into chick-lit happy endings, and is grounded in realism. It was not a "cheery" read, but but more inspiring for a mother or someone struggling with addiction.
Best Kept Secret chronicles mom Cadence's struggle with alcoholism, divorce, and losing custody of her son due to her drinking. The book itself is well written, and conveys the highs, lows, confusion, and confliction faced by the main character. I found Cadence difficult to relate to, as I can't relate to exact emotional states. But the character development was well enough that I was rooting for her.
The book doesn't venture off into chick-lit happy endings, and is grounded in realism. It was not a "cheery" read, but but more inspiring for a mother or someone struggling with addiction.
March 30, 2013
This was just an exceptional book. Rarely do I meet a book that reaches inside me and touches my soul. The tough subject of addiction was handled with grace and compassion. In fact, it was so well done that I was convinced by the halfway mark that the author had made a similar journey. I found out that she did, in fact, struggle with this demon disease.
I connected with Cadence immediately. She could literally be any woman. I was in her head as she spiraled out of control and then struggled to climb out of the pit of despair. At times, I felt her anguish so keenly that my heart ached for this woman. She also frustrated me at times. Ultimately, her strength made me rejoice.
I would highly recommend this book as a must read for anyone who appreciates a beautifully written, thought provoking novel. It is an amazing and touching story. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would.
I connected with Cadence immediately. She could literally be any woman. I was in her head as she spiraled out of control and then struggled to climb out of the pit of despair. At times, I felt her anguish so keenly that my heart ached for this woman. She also frustrated me at times. Ultimately, her strength made me rejoice.
I would highly recommend this book as a must read for anyone who appreciates a beautifully written, thought provoking novel. It is an amazing and touching story. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would.
January 19, 2011
Amy Hatvany's character Cadence could be you, your neighbor, your sister, your friend. She is all of us as loving, imperfect mothers. What is special about Best Kept Secret is the humanity Hatvany captures through her protagonist - the moments that ring so real, so true. " - I was always looking in the direction I thought I should have gone" is just one of the many lines I love in this novel.
Read this book. And share it with your friends.
Read this book. And share it with your friends.
June 15, 2013
This was such a good book about a mother who was an alcoholic and how she messed up her life and that of her family. A well written story.
October 10, 2018
A powerful and impacting story of how Cadence struggles with work and bringing up a toddler after her marriage falls apart, and turns to the bottle to help her cope with life. Only it doesn't, it devastates her life in the most sobering way possible when her husband finds her passed out from drinking with their son in the room, taking him away and filing for custody of four year old Charlie.
From sinking so low Cadence, with help from her sister and alcoholics'support meetings, lifts herself from the depths of despair to fight to gain the right to see her child.
A raw and emotionally charged story portraying the destructive effects of alcohol.
From sinking so low Cadence, with help from her sister and alcoholics'support meetings, lifts herself from the depths of despair to fight to gain the right to see her child.
A raw and emotionally charged story portraying the destructive effects of alcohol.
December 14, 2011
From the first frank opening lines, I knew that Cadence's story would be heart-wrenching, gutsy, and totally honest.
Her beginning confession of her greatest "sin," being drunk in front of her child, told me that we were about to commence a journey that could only get more painful, but would also yield the unique wisdom that comes from coping with something horrendous, and yet living to tell about it.
We can see that being an alcoholic is difficult and challenging enough, but being an alcoholic mother can often result in the whispers, condemnation, and exclusion of other mothers. Almost as if the woman suffers from leprosy, or some other contemptible disease. Perhaps such a mother is at the wrong end of that continuum society often places women along—from Madonna to Whore—and there is no coming back from such a label.
Or is there? Perhaps in telling the story, other women who experience the same pain and the same journey will not feel quite so alone.
The author brings us Cadence's story from her first-person point of view, which allows the reader to truly experience the journey along with the narrator. It begins as a love story, when Cadence and her husband Martin meet: it leads us to the birth of Charlie, along with those early difficulties in parenting. And we see Martin, as he turns almost totally toward his career and away from Charlie and Cadence. Until finally the marriage falls apart.
It is in the second year after the divorce that Cadence turns more and more to the bottle to help her cope. A struggling freelance writer, she has to manage parenting and writing at home, with all the distractions inherent in those roles.
As I read about how Cadence "bottoms out," with Martin taking her child away and suing for custody; and then as I watch her struggle to address her disease and begin recovery, even as she faces the outcome of the courts deciding whether or not she will be the primary custodial parent, I could not help but rapidly turn those pages. I immediately connected with Cadence, and felt an almost appalling enmity for Martin and his judgmental mother Alice. I knew I was "taking sides," but sometimes that happens in stories that really grab me.
Waiting for the final outcome would be excruciatingly painful. I knew it. But I kept going. I loved this excerpt toward the end of "Best Kept Secret: A Novel," when Cadence "does battle" with an array of unopened wine bottles, trying to decide her next step:
"When the wine is gone and my tears are finally spent, I look through the kitchen window into my backyard. The sky is the royal hazy blue of impending day. The storm clouds have passed, leaving a faint netting of stars to adorn the sky. I swallow to calm the nerves that jiggle in my throat. I will find a way to get on with things. I'll gather up my black, fluttering scraps of guilt and resentment and pain and somehow knit them together into a way to survive. And though I'm afraid, though shame claws at the gates of my mind, I walk over to the table and I reach for the phone."
Moments like these throughout this story had me clutching my throat with empathy, while other lines brought laughter, joy, and even a gasp of recognition. A powerful and emotional read, I highly recommend it to anyone who has ever struggled with anything challenging. And survived.
Five stars.
Her beginning confession of her greatest "sin," being drunk in front of her child, told me that we were about to commence a journey that could only get more painful, but would also yield the unique wisdom that comes from coping with something horrendous, and yet living to tell about it.
We can see that being an alcoholic is difficult and challenging enough, but being an alcoholic mother can often result in the whispers, condemnation, and exclusion of other mothers. Almost as if the woman suffers from leprosy, or some other contemptible disease. Perhaps such a mother is at the wrong end of that continuum society often places women along—from Madonna to Whore—and there is no coming back from such a label.
Or is there? Perhaps in telling the story, other women who experience the same pain and the same journey will not feel quite so alone.
The author brings us Cadence's story from her first-person point of view, which allows the reader to truly experience the journey along with the narrator. It begins as a love story, when Cadence and her husband Martin meet: it leads us to the birth of Charlie, along with those early difficulties in parenting. And we see Martin, as he turns almost totally toward his career and away from Charlie and Cadence. Until finally the marriage falls apart.
It is in the second year after the divorce that Cadence turns more and more to the bottle to help her cope. A struggling freelance writer, she has to manage parenting and writing at home, with all the distractions inherent in those roles.
As I read about how Cadence "bottoms out," with Martin taking her child away and suing for custody; and then as I watch her struggle to address her disease and begin recovery, even as she faces the outcome of the courts deciding whether or not she will be the primary custodial parent, I could not help but rapidly turn those pages. I immediately connected with Cadence, and felt an almost appalling enmity for Martin and his judgmental mother Alice. I knew I was "taking sides," but sometimes that happens in stories that really grab me.
Waiting for the final outcome would be excruciatingly painful. I knew it. But I kept going. I loved this excerpt toward the end of "Best Kept Secret: A Novel," when Cadence "does battle" with an array of unopened wine bottles, trying to decide her next step:
"When the wine is gone and my tears are finally spent, I look through the kitchen window into my backyard. The sky is the royal hazy blue of impending day. The storm clouds have passed, leaving a faint netting of stars to adorn the sky. I swallow to calm the nerves that jiggle in my throat. I will find a way to get on with things. I'll gather up my black, fluttering scraps of guilt and resentment and pain and somehow knit them together into a way to survive. And though I'm afraid, though shame claws at the gates of my mind, I walk over to the table and I reach for the phone."
Moments like these throughout this story had me clutching my throat with empathy, while other lines brought laughter, joy, and even a gasp of recognition. A powerful and emotional read, I highly recommend it to anyone who has ever struggled with anything challenging. And survived.
Five stars.
August 12, 2011
For more reviews check out my blog, Thoughts of a Fashionista!
Drinking snuck up on Cadence. Before she knew it, Cadence was downing two bottles of wine in a single night. When it go from one glass to relax her before to bed to this? Rewind two years and from the outside Cadence had everything--a husband climbing the ladder at Microsoft and a son that filled her days with laughter and love. What more could she want. But then a divorce splits her family in two and her future seems less certain. What will Cadence do to keep her secret?
The concept for this book was really compelling and complex. But like many things, it was great in theory but fell through during execution. This novel could've been so much stronger. Some of the characters [Jess, Alice, and even sometimes Cadence] felt like one-dimensional charecatures rather than a living, breathing person. And that prevented the story from coming truly alive.
It was a little too much like something that could be seen on the Lifetime Movie Channel. Troubled woman goes through tough times but in the end things are essentially good. The ending was a bit too neat and tidy. The only thing it was missing was a bright blue bow. This novel is cautionary tale about the dangers of drinking and addiction. But more than that, it was an interesting look at the roles of woman and what makes a "good mother". People are quick to say that there is no guide book to parenting but as a society we HAVE established a list of criteria that we believe is part of good parenting.
An active mother who adores her son? Good thing. Alcoholic mother? Horrible! But are there any cases where these two seemingly polar opposites meet in the middle? Most would say no. Those people should take a few hours and read this book. Life is never as simple as we'd like it be. Neither is parenting. Hatvany does an excellent job at bringing attention to an important issue but literary genius it does not make.
I applaud her effort but just because a book deals with difficult topics doesn't make it a good one. And while Hatvany's focus on Cadence's spiral into alcoholism during the first half of the novel is understandable, Cadence's long difficult recover was oddly more engaging. It was the side of alcoholism that many people don't get to experience on such a detailed and personal level.
It was interesting to find that Hatvany struggled with alcohol in the past. Her story is far more interesting to me than Cadence's fictional journey. A memoir would've have been much more powerful--practically shoving the reality of the situation into the reader's face. Fiction sometimes adds a safety blanket between the story and the audience. Oh, this could never happen to me.
Drinking snuck up on Cadence. Before she knew it, Cadence was downing two bottles of wine in a single night. When it go from one glass to relax her before to bed to this? Rewind two years and from the outside Cadence had everything--a husband climbing the ladder at Microsoft and a son that filled her days with laughter and love. What more could she want. But then a divorce splits her family in two and her future seems less certain. What will Cadence do to keep her secret?
The concept for this book was really compelling and complex. But like many things, it was great in theory but fell through during execution. This novel could've been so much stronger. Some of the characters [Jess, Alice, and even sometimes Cadence] felt like one-dimensional charecatures rather than a living, breathing person. And that prevented the story from coming truly alive.
It was a little too much like something that could be seen on the Lifetime Movie Channel. Troubled woman goes through tough times but in the end things are essentially good. The ending was a bit too neat and tidy. The only thing it was missing was a bright blue bow. This novel is cautionary tale about the dangers of drinking and addiction. But more than that, it was an interesting look at the roles of woman and what makes a "good mother". People are quick to say that there is no guide book to parenting but as a society we HAVE established a list of criteria that we believe is part of good parenting.
An active mother who adores her son? Good thing. Alcoholic mother? Horrible! But are there any cases where these two seemingly polar opposites meet in the middle? Most would say no. Those people should take a few hours and read this book. Life is never as simple as we'd like it be. Neither is parenting. Hatvany does an excellent job at bringing attention to an important issue but literary genius it does not make.
I applaud her effort but just because a book deals with difficult topics doesn't make it a good one. And while Hatvany's focus on Cadence's spiral into alcoholism during the first half of the novel is understandable, Cadence's long difficult recover was oddly more engaging. It was the side of alcoholism that many people don't get to experience on such a detailed and personal level.
It was interesting to find that Hatvany struggled with alcohol in the past. Her story is far more interesting to me than Cadence's fictional journey. A memoir would've have been much more powerful--practically shoving the reality of the situation into the reader's face. Fiction sometimes adds a safety blanket between the story and the audience. Oh, this could never happen to me.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 549 reviews