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The Secrets We Never Told
Willow. Raven. Emily. Callie. Sam. These five women have been to hell and back together. As teens, their bond was forged through a fight for each one of their lives. They were forced to stand face-to-face with real world evil, but they found their way through. Somehow, with their tremendous love for one another and a little bit of magic, they survived. When it was all done, they took with them an unbreakable sisterhood and the deepest, darkest of secrets. Now, thirteen years later, they must come together again when Willow goes missing. They know exactly who took her and they know they must face him alone. There is no one they can ask for help. If anyone ever knew what they did to win the fight back then it would bring all of their lives crashing down around them. They must instead face their pasts alone, hand in hand, or risk falling to an evil that thinks of nothing but making them his. The immense magic and strength of friendship saved them once. Will it be enough to erase him from their lives forever?
236 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2023
262 people are currently reading
830 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
October 14, 2024
I ended up really loving this story. It was short but perfect in its own way. A witchy story that includes the true love of unbreakable friendships. Would absolutely recommend.
October 18, 2024
2✨ A super fast read! A little bit of suspense, a little witchy and a little triumphant but it was all surface level. This novel really needs a couple hundred extra pages of detail to really make a connection. I enjoyed the duel timeline and the premise of the story but it was extremely predictable and has a super anticlimactic ending. I couldn’t forgive the mediocre writing and cringy dialogue but it was a good filler book for the spooky season.
November 15, 2024
Look I’m conflicted, the messages are really strong so don’t feel like I can rate it any lower. But the actual story felt like there was no build up to anything, it just was happening and I was like HUH?! WHY?! HOW 🤣. The last part was beautiful though ♥️
March 14, 2025
This story starts tense, Willow is missing and Raven hasnt heard from her.
I found myself losing hours to this story. I feel instantly for the characters and felt myself right there as part of their group.
Trigger warnings contain violence, and rape.
The chapters take each one of the 5 main characters, POV. Each one bring the story closer to understanding what happens and how they will grow.
Favourite quote / part - 'Willow blinks at Sam, “Do you not remember how that turned out for them? Because it would be even worse in real life. Maybe go home and rewatch Practical Magic. Better yet, watch Pet Semetary and get back to me.”
I found myself losing hours to this story. I feel instantly for the characters and felt myself right there as part of their group.
Trigger warnings contain violence, and rape.
The chapters take each one of the 5 main characters, POV. Each one bring the story closer to understanding what happens and how they will grow.
Favourite quote / part - 'Willow blinks at Sam, “Do you not remember how that turned out for them? Because it would be even worse in real life. Maybe go home and rewatch Practical Magic. Better yet, watch Pet Semetary and get back to me.”
January 20, 2025
Witches, curses, friendship and love!
September 16, 2025
My book club read this. It was really good. I joined the book club on a whim the day they started this book.
I loved that it had really short chapters I was able to keep up even with my busy scedule.
As we talked through the chapters that we read we tried to guess what some of the outcomes were going to be. I loved that it kept you guessing. Each character had there own personality and you got to know each one really well.
Im not sure any of our quesses where right which I loved to. It was predictable.
I would recommend this book to others.
I loved that it had really short chapters I was able to keep up even with my busy scedule.
As we talked through the chapters that we read we tried to guess what some of the outcomes were going to be. I loved that it kept you guessing. Each character had there own personality and you got to know each one really well.
Im not sure any of our quesses where right which I loved to. It was predictable.
I would recommend this book to others.
October 31, 2024
It started off well and liked the plot but then the ghost stuff and spells just got a little silly at the end
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 8, 2024
This story was heartbreaking but also so lovely. The love of friendship is stronger than most give credit for, and this book shows you exactly how much you'll do for the people you love.
Without spoilers, these friends go above and beyond for each other in an impossibly complicated and painful situation that many people truly go through. This book is about sacrifice and the strength we gain by working together.
I highly recommend this book. It's a quick read with a lot of action. Also, if you love short chapters, this book is for you.
Without spoilers, these friends go above and beyond for each other in an impossibly complicated and painful situation that many people truly go through. This book is about sacrifice and the strength we gain by working together.
I highly recommend this book. It's a quick read with a lot of action. Also, if you love short chapters, this book is for you.
November 17, 2024
The book is told by switching back and forth from the present and past perspective. I enjoyed the start/format of this book and piecing together the story. After knowing the characters, story, and enemy things fell flat.
The ending of this book really killed it for me. I could deal with the shallow characters for the interesting format and storyline. The author spoonfed feminism and "girl power" at the end of this book and I hated it.
With such deep topics like abuse, rape, death, and manipulation I just felt the author did such a poor job A) discussing these hard topics and B) giving the characters depth in a meaningful way after these events. It felt more like she was using these things for shock value rather than to add to the story.
Would not recommend. 1.5 stars
The ending of this book really killed it for me. I could deal with the shallow characters for the interesting format and storyline. The author spoonfed feminism and "girl power" at the end of this book and I hated it.
With such deep topics like abuse, rape, death, and manipulation I just felt the author did such a poor job A) discussing these hard topics and B) giving the characters depth in a meaningful way after these events. It felt more like she was using these things for shock value rather than to add to the story.
Would not recommend. 1.5 stars
January 2, 2025
honest review
I read this book in about 12 hours it was so good I couldn’t put it down. The story of these 5 girls and all the had to endure all the way to the end had me on the edge of my seat. Sweet Willow you did everything in your power to make sure they were safe in the end and they will forever be grateful for you!
I read this book in about 12 hours it was so good I couldn’t put it down. The story of these 5 girls and all the had to endure all the way to the end had me on the edge of my seat. Sweet Willow you did everything in your power to make sure they were safe in the end and they will forever be grateful for you!
January 14, 2025
Wow, Jesus, um. I read this in an attempt to broaden my reading since it’s not something I’d typically reach for, and honestly it sat at a 3.5 until about the halfway mark. It all went downhill from there. To start with positives, I LOVE seeing queer representation in the books I read. I felt really invested in the relationship between Raven and Callie. The way the author described their feelings was true to life and I assume she may be queer herself. Had that been front and center, I think that would have improved the story. I think the readers were meant to care about the sister relationship between Raven and Willow, but the chemistry just wasn’t there. For as short as the book is, there are too many main characters with too little development and background. My final straw was when Emily decided to name her baby Willow Nessa. My eyes nearly rolled out of my skull. Very much giving Renesmee from Twilight, but somehow worse? I can appreciate that the author was going for a heartwarming portrayal of sisterhood, but the amount of giggling, crying, handholding, chanting….it was heavy handed. I’m also having a hard time believing these teenage girls committed straight up murder and went and told a trusted adult and that trusted adult was like “hmm…seems fine!” Maybe I’m being harsh since the plot was meant to be a bit fantastical, but it was an absolute miss for me. 1 star, bumped down from 2 specifically because of the baby named fucking Willow Nessa. Another review mentioned that this is more of a YA read, and I agree. Tone derogatory.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 16, 2025
Friendship, trauma, and buried secrets form the backbone of this story, and its emotional core is undeniably strong. Willow, Raven, Emily, Callie, and Sam share a bond forged through real, harrowing evil, and the idea of sisterhood as both magic and shield is compelling from the start.
Where the book shines is in atmosphere and theme—the weight of the past, the fear of exposure, and the loyalty that refuses to fade even after thirteen years. The stakes feel personal, and the mystery of Willow’s disappearance is genuinely engaging.
That said, the execution doesn’t always live up to the promise. Pacing can be uneven, with some sections dragging while others rush moments that deserved more depth. Character development also feels inconsistent; while the group dynamic works, individual voices sometimes blur together, making it hard to fully connect with each woman on her own.
Overall, it’s a solid read with a powerful premise and emotional resonance, but it falls just short of being truly unforgettable. Worth picking up if you enjoy dark friendships, lingering trauma, and a touch of magic—but expect a few rough edges along the way. 🖤📖
Where the book shines is in atmosphere and theme—the weight of the past, the fear of exposure, and the loyalty that refuses to fade even after thirteen years. The stakes feel personal, and the mystery of Willow’s disappearance is genuinely engaging.
That said, the execution doesn’t always live up to the promise. Pacing can be uneven, with some sections dragging while others rush moments that deserved more depth. Character development also feels inconsistent; while the group dynamic works, individual voices sometimes blur together, making it hard to fully connect with each woman on her own.
Overall, it’s a solid read with a powerful premise and emotional resonance, but it falls just short of being truly unforgettable. Worth picking up if you enjoy dark friendships, lingering trauma, and a touch of magic—but expect a few rough edges along the way. 🖤📖
August 14, 2025
WOW!!!! Just Wow! I had been going through a summer reading slump and had just DNF'd 3 books and put 2 on hold. Picked this up to finish up my Buzzword Challenge and could barely put it down! When they are ready I would highly recommend that survivors of domestic abuse read this because regardless of the magical element, this book deep down is about a group of surviving sisters.
Trying not to spoil but just a couple things that really got my attention were 1) The romance between 2 of the girls is absolutely beautiful and wonderful. Every time the 2 of them interacted in the book, it just mad me smile. 2) They never name the guy, ever and rightly so and 3) There are two twists in the story, one you kinda see coming and the other absolutely floored me!
Trying not to spoil but just a couple things that really got my attention were 1) The romance between 2 of the girls is absolutely beautiful and wonderful. Every time the 2 of them interacted in the book, it just mad me smile. 2) They never name the guy, ever and rightly so and 3) There are two twists in the story, one you kinda see coming and the other absolutely floored me!
February 21, 2025
I finished this book in one day, it got me from the first pages and pulled to the finish. It is a semi-similar premise to practical magic but in it's own unique way. The support of the main cast of women towards eachother is amazing. I also love that the abusive man remains unnamed because it gives power to say one name and these women refused to give him power over them after he abused some of the friends and threatened others. I will say I was in tears reading parts of this book (especially the ending) and at several points wanted to reach into the book, hug the characters, and tell them it will all be ok.
May 25, 2025
This was a 3.5 stars for me. The bond of sisterhood and love they shared was beautiful and what made the book a delight to read. I also love the truth of not allowing your past and the darkness to continue to control you, that you have to let go of the power it takes and holds over your life to fully live the life you were meant to live in all its beauty and peace. The parallels between allowing hate to consume you and how it affects the way you live and treat others vs. allowing love and hope to fill you and the way you treat others and the effect that leaves behind is definitely an archetype and the letter Willow writes to her sisters at the end paints that picture well.
October 25, 2024
I got this book in the Terrify your Tablet stuff your kindle day, and I was skeptical at first because it seemed kind of slow at first, but once I got over that hump (which I couldn't even tell you what it was), it started getting interesting.
He never did get a name, and while I'm curious at what it was, I'm glad he just remained nameless.
This book is about strong women with affinities for nature, emotions, feelings, and being the best of friends no matter what. The trials these women had to go through as kids and adults showed through in how they handled that mess.
He never did get a name, and while I'm curious at what it was, I'm glad he just remained nameless.
This book is about strong women with affinities for nature, emotions, feelings, and being the best of friends no matter what. The trials these women had to go through as kids and adults showed through in how they handled that mess.
October 15, 2024
Excellent read. As a survivor, it was a little triggering, but it is written so well.
Five survivors have to overcome their abuser one more time. When Raven's sister Willow goes missing, their little secret coven comes back together to vanquish the monster they thought was only a nightmare.
The ending was not what I expected and almost had me in tears. This is a great read for anyone who wants to see some young women find their inner strength, beauty and light.
Five survivors have to overcome their abuser one more time. When Raven's sister Willow goes missing, their little secret coven comes back together to vanquish the monster they thought was only a nightmare.
The ending was not what I expected and almost had me in tears. This is a great read for anyone who wants to see some young women find their inner strength, beauty and light.
November 9, 2024
I really enjoyed the dual timeline approach in this book. I also loved the fact that 'he' is never named. So many times we know the name of a perpetrator over the names of the victims/survivors. Not in this case.
Massive feminine energy to this book.
I was interested in the story throughout. The only drawbacks were the cringy writing at moments, and some simplistic or overly used phrases.
Otherwise a good, spooky witchy read.
Massive feminine energy to this book.
I was interested in the story throughout. The only drawbacks were the cringy writing at moments, and some simplistic or overly used phrases.
Otherwise a good, spooky witchy read.
February 28, 2025
Loved this story. It was a fast read but very enjoyable! Even though we were hearing from 5 different characters, it was told so well that I never had trouble keeping them separate or getting confused about who was who. I loved the girl-power, witchy vibe of the whole thing & felt like it truly told the whole story well, learning about each character's history & their current lives and ending with well-rounded arcs for each one!
November 14, 2024
4.5
There is some power to never giving the villain a name. This book was a fun mix of the Craft/Practical Magic. Typical group of teens getting themselves into a mess of things. This book touches on subjects such as DV and pretty intensely. It was a short quick read but would have been really good with some extra context maybe with the curses. It was still a fun read.
There is some power to never giving the villain a name. This book was a fun mix of the Craft/Practical Magic. Typical group of teens getting themselves into a mess of things. This book touches on subjects such as DV and pretty intensely. It was a short quick read but would have been really good with some extra context maybe with the curses. It was still a fun read.
November 19, 2024
2.5 I feel bad for giving this rating but I really felt this story just wasn't what I was expecting and not in a good way at all. I've read many storied where the timeline jumps and I didn't have a problem with that but I felt that the magic elements were a bit unnecessary and some of the characters seemed really flat. It was such a shame because it could have been a really great book.
April 20, 2025
1.5
My earliest memories of being taught how to write is “show don’t tell”. Well this book was big on the tell.
It was an entertaining, witchy read but the simplicity of the writing made it a low rated book for me. I feel by removing a lot of the extra descriptors I would have had more fun with this book.
My earliest memories of being taught how to write is “show don’t tell”. Well this book was big on the tell.
It was an entertaining, witchy read but the simplicity of the writing made it a low rated book for me. I feel by removing a lot of the extra descriptors I would have had more fun with this book.
May 6, 2025
This is a cross between The Craft and Practical Magic. Parts of this book got my emotions running especially with the physical abuse of one so young. The bond of these women shines through the whole story and is quite endearing. It was a quick easy read i finished it within an hour or two. Overall a good read.
December 15, 2023
I love this author and her books but I have to say it took me a lot to get into this book. Definitely a different story plot to what I’m used to from her. This book was about revenge but using witch craft.
October 15, 2024
2.5/5
This story definitely had promise but I was left wanting more. I wish it was like 100 pages longer with more detail.
I did enjoy the then vs. now aspect and I wish there were more “witchy” elements.
This story definitely had promise but I was left wanting more. I wish it was like 100 pages longer with more detail.
I did enjoy the then vs. now aspect and I wish there were more “witchy” elements.
December 31, 2024
Lots of really heavy topics but without any depth. It felt very immature, definitely a YA read. I liked the overall premise of the story and if it had been a few hundred pages longer - it would have allowed for all of the details and depth that it lacked.
January 18, 2025
Beautiful story
I loved this story! To tell a story of domestic violence as a teen and how it carries into your adult life. To how our secrets always find ways of haunting us. A story of sisterhood, magic, love, pain, shame, and overcoming it all. I loved it all so much.
I loved this story! To tell a story of domestic violence as a teen and how it carries into your adult life. To how our secrets always find ways of haunting us. A story of sisterhood, magic, love, pain, shame, and overcoming it all. I loved it all so much.
January 31, 2025
I now see why it was labeled as horror- but to me this is just base supernatural. It is a smooth story and at least it is a full story. Makes you think about things you hid away or ran away from that could come back to haunt you
September 30, 2025
Short Chapters. Dual Timeline. Multiple perspectives! yes!!! some of my favorite qualities of a good book!
Quick read, perfect for fall if you like sisterhood, witchy, girl Power, paranormal books!
its giving Practical Magic meets Light as a Feather.
the ending is perfect! I love how the author kept "him" just as is and didnt name "him". It was so strong and powerful!
loved this book and will be reading others by Amanda East!!
Quick read, perfect for fall if you like sisterhood, witchy, girl Power, paranormal books!
its giving Practical Magic meets Light as a Feather.
the ending is perfect! I love how the author kept "him" just as is and didnt name "him". It was so strong and powerful!
loved this book and will be reading others by Amanda East!!
October 10, 2024
This was a great quick read of a very cute story. If your looking for some witchy or supernatural vibes, you would enjoy this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews