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Seven For A Secret
It’s the year 2000, and twenty-four-year-old Kate moves into a new apartment to find a new state of independence in a new millennium. Almost immediately, she starts crushing on a hot guy who lives in her building. Deciding to take a break from her boyfriend Dexter, Kate believes the only thing now separating her from the fresh object of her sexual fantasies is the thin wall between their neighboring apartments.
A former 1920s hotel, Camden Court has housed many lonely lives over the decades—and is where a number of them have come to die. They're not all resting in peace, however, including ninety-year-old Olive, who dropped dead in Kate’s apartment and continues to make her presence known.
For Olive has a secret she’s dying to tell. One linking her to the sex, scandal, and sacrifice of a young dreamer named Lon. As the past haunts the present, Kate’s romantic notion that the thrill-of-the-chase beats the reality-after-the-catch unexpectedly entwines her modern-day love life with Lon’s Jazz Age tragedy.
With a little supernatural and a lotta' razzle-dazzle, Seven for a Secret is where historical fiction meets contemporary rom-com—from the Roaring Twenties when the “New Woman” was born, to the modern Noughties when she really came of age.
A former 1920s hotel, Camden Court has housed many lonely lives over the decades—and is where a number of them have come to die. They're not all resting in peace, however, including ninety-year-old Olive, who dropped dead in Kate’s apartment and continues to make her presence known.
For Olive has a secret she’s dying to tell. One linking her to the sex, scandal, and sacrifice of a young dreamer named Lon. As the past haunts the present, Kate’s romantic notion that the thrill-of-the-chase beats the reality-after-the-catch unexpectedly entwines her modern-day love life with Lon’s Jazz Age tragedy.
With a little supernatural and a lotta' razzle-dazzle, Seven for a Secret is where historical fiction meets contemporary rom-com—from the Roaring Twenties when the “New Woman” was born, to the modern Noughties when she really came of age.
376 pages, Paperback
First published August 11, 2014
7 people are currently reading
1178 people want to read
About the author
Rumer Haven
9 books87 followersRumer Haven is probably the most social recluse you could ever meet. When she’s not babbling her fool head off among friends and family, she’s pacified with a good story that she’s reading, writing, or revising—or binge-watching Buffy. A writer/editor hailing from Chicago, she presently lives in London with her husband and probably a ghost or two. Rumer has always had a penchant for the past and paranormal, which inspires her writing to explore dimensions of time, love, and the soul. Her award-winning work includes Coattails and Cocktails (First Prize Winner, 2018 Red City Review Book Awards) and What the Clocks Know (First Place Winner in General Fiction, 2017 Red City Review Book Awards).
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
November 13, 2014
Secret Lives, Secret Deaths
"There's souls not at rest here. It's a troubled place, this."
A historical romance set in Chicago, one of my favorite cities? Sign me up! The classy cover also drew me in.
In the year 2000, 25-year-old Kate moves into an apartment complex that used to be a 1920's hotel. She meets a cast of quirky elderly neighbors who report they didn't find the former tenant Olive in the apartment until three days after her death. *shudders* Then Kate gets locked in her bathroom, and it feels like she's not alone. Eek!
Kate works at a museum with her boyfriend Dexter. While Dexter is sweet, he's no Jake Ryan from Sixteen Candles. (The 80s and 90s references make me happy.) Kate also feels intrigued by her hottie neighbor and wants to take a break from her relationship with Dex. (Anyone who knows the Ross/Rachel saga from Friends worries this won't turn out well.)
As Kate gets to know spunky Vera and kind-hearted Leo from the geriatric crowd, they tell her more about the ghostly Olive and her older sister Eva from the well-to-do 1920's Hughes family. The story then travels back through time to the scene of a decadent house party, full of flappers and moonshine. Bachelor Lon meanders through the crowd with cynical distaste, until he comes upon an "exquisite nymph" of a woman, Eva.
Lon first notices Eva's eyes:
They burned with a jade green he'd once seen in a great bonfire, the hottest of flames devouring all they came into contact with.
A bit of foreshadowing, perhaps? Sadly, Eva is betrothed to a man from another of Chicago's socially elite families. But Lon won't give up easily.
The historical romances in the 20s and 00s gradually pulled me in deeper to the point that it felt like I lived in Camden Court myself. The descriptive writing style authentically captures the proper debauchery and impending sense of doom from the twenties. This is a long novel, which allows both stories to unfold at their own pace (unlike my dissatisfaction with jamming two stories into one in Ugly Love).
One story has a happy ending and the other ends on a tragic note, but a common thread woven throughout is the search for love with the right partner, no matter how tangled the threads (or bonds) of life become. Kate's friend Blair tells it so well:
"Kate, trust me. When a guy's genuinely into you, the rules don't apply. Real love isn't a game, and that's how you'll know it when you see it. You'll recognize The One when you aren't overanalyzing him. You'll just ... be, and it'll play out organically."
And Kate responds:
"Why do I always feel like Enya should be playing in the background of your advice? I can almost smell herbal incense spraying out of my phone." Hehe.
"There's souls not at rest here. It's a troubled place, this."
A historical romance set in Chicago, one of my favorite cities? Sign me up! The classy cover also drew me in.
In the year 2000, 25-year-old Kate moves into an apartment complex that used to be a 1920's hotel. She meets a cast of quirky elderly neighbors who report they didn't find the former tenant Olive in the apartment until three days after her death. *shudders* Then Kate gets locked in her bathroom, and it feels like she's not alone. Eek!
Kate works at a museum with her boyfriend Dexter. While Dexter is sweet, he's no Jake Ryan from Sixteen Candles. (The 80s and 90s references make me happy.) Kate also feels intrigued by her hottie neighbor and wants to take a break from her relationship with Dex. (Anyone who knows the Ross/Rachel saga from Friends worries this won't turn out well.)
As Kate gets to know spunky Vera and kind-hearted Leo from the geriatric crowd, they tell her more about the ghostly Olive and her older sister Eva from the well-to-do 1920's Hughes family. The story then travels back through time to the scene of a decadent house party, full of flappers and moonshine. Bachelor Lon meanders through the crowd with cynical distaste, until he comes upon an "exquisite nymph" of a woman, Eva.
Lon first notices Eva's eyes:
They burned with a jade green he'd once seen in a great bonfire, the hottest of flames devouring all they came into contact with.
A bit of foreshadowing, perhaps? Sadly, Eva is betrothed to a man from another of Chicago's socially elite families. But Lon won't give up easily.
The historical romances in the 20s and 00s gradually pulled me in deeper to the point that it felt like I lived in Camden Court myself. The descriptive writing style authentically captures the proper debauchery and impending sense of doom from the twenties. This is a long novel, which allows both stories to unfold at their own pace (unlike my dissatisfaction with jamming two stories into one in Ugly Love).
One story has a happy ending and the other ends on a tragic note, but a common thread woven throughout is the search for love with the right partner, no matter how tangled the threads (or bonds) of life become. Kate's friend Blair tells it so well:
"Kate, trust me. When a guy's genuinely into you, the rules don't apply. Real love isn't a game, and that's how you'll know it when you see it. You'll recognize The One when you aren't overanalyzing him. You'll just ... be, and it'll play out organically."
And Kate responds:
"Why do I always feel like Enya should be playing in the background of your advice? I can almost smell herbal incense spraying out of my phone." Hehe.
May 13, 2021
Set in the 2000s. We follow Kate who moves into a new apartment. She decides to take a break from he boyfriend when she starts crushing on her new neighbour. But the apartment complex has a story of its on. A former 1920s hotel where not all of the old residents have moved on. Olive who dropped dead in Kates apartment doesn't want to move on until she can tell her story. I give it 3.5 stars. It was very entertaining read and I would like to read more by Rumer Haven in the future but it wasn't a story that stands out for me, even with the uniqe premise. But I'm glad I've read it and I had a fun time with it
December 26, 2015
A happy new year indeed! I FINALLY got off my duff and read this gem by Rumer Haven, even though it's been sitting patiently waiting for me in my Amazon queue since it came out. The holidays is a good time to read it, though, because right now it's on SALE for 99c and part of the big action in the book happens on NYE.
You can read the blurb to get a sense of the premise, but I have to say that one thing I really liked about it was that it defied genres. It was spooky, it was romantic, but it struck me most as a mystery to be unraveled.
Kate, the main character living in the year 2000, is strong and smart and trying to navigate a romantic relationship she's not sure is destined to be. For me, though, the most fun was her investigative skills as she moves into a 1920's era building and begins to discover its secrets. I really enjoyed her neighbors, Leo and Vera, and the friendship she develops with them.
The spooky paranormal element of the book is really well-written. When Kate gets locked in her old bathroom (more than once) I braced myself for seriously terrifying stuff (and I think the locked bathroom set-up was a bit of a missed opportunity for extreme terror, but that's just me).
That's another thing I really enjoyed about Seven for a Secret, though. It didn't take me down any of the paths I expected. The development of the plot was fresh, and I really didn't know what was coming. In a mystery that is a definite plus!
And I haven't even mentioned the parallel plot of lovers Eva and Lon in the '20s. I really, really loved the setting, and the buildings and atmosphere of Chicago were so vividly described I was transported. I've not spent much time there, and I would love to hit some of the real-life places that tie the book's two settings together.
But I also really loved the characters of Eva and Lon. I felt that they were real and well-developed. The Great Gatsby is one of my all-time favorite books, and Seven for a Secret definitely evokes TGG in its flashback scenes.
I don't want to speak to too many specifics of the novel in fear that I will give too much away. Suffice it to say that this book is a fabulous, rip-roaring and spooky trip to the 2000s and the 1920s that I highly recommend!
P.S. I've no idea if this is purposeful, but I enjoyed that the characters Lon, Ollie, Vera and Eva put together spell LOVE -- ignore me, but I thought I was pretty brilliant when I figured that out at 1 in the morning last night.
You can read the blurb to get a sense of the premise, but I have to say that one thing I really liked about it was that it defied genres. It was spooky, it was romantic, but it struck me most as a mystery to be unraveled.
Kate, the main character living in the year 2000, is strong and smart and trying to navigate a romantic relationship she's not sure is destined to be. For me, though, the most fun was her investigative skills as she moves into a 1920's era building and begins to discover its secrets. I really enjoyed her neighbors, Leo and Vera, and the friendship she develops with them.
The spooky paranormal element of the book is really well-written. When Kate gets locked in her old bathroom (more than once) I braced myself for seriously terrifying stuff (and I think the locked bathroom set-up was a bit of a missed opportunity for extreme terror, but that's just me).
That's another thing I really enjoyed about Seven for a Secret, though. It didn't take me down any of the paths I expected. The development of the plot was fresh, and I really didn't know what was coming. In a mystery that is a definite plus!
And I haven't even mentioned the parallel plot of lovers Eva and Lon in the '20s. I really, really loved the setting, and the buildings and atmosphere of Chicago were so vividly described I was transported. I've not spent much time there, and I would love to hit some of the real-life places that tie the book's two settings together.
But I also really loved the characters of Eva and Lon. I felt that they were real and well-developed. The Great Gatsby is one of my all-time favorite books, and Seven for a Secret definitely evokes TGG in its flashback scenes.
I don't want to speak to too many specifics of the novel in fear that I will give too much away. Suffice it to say that this book is a fabulous, rip-roaring and spooky trip to the 2000s and the 1920s that I highly recommend!
P.S. I've no idea if this is purposeful, but I enjoyed that the characters Lon, Ollie, Vera and Eva put together spell LOVE -- ignore me, but I thought I was pretty brilliant when I figured that out at 1 in the morning last night.
August 5, 2014
This book was a joy to read. Rumer has a lyrical writing style that keeps the reader intrigued. Kind of a Gatsby meets Bridget Jones murder mystery! The 1920's is such an interesting time - there was a New Woman but the rich especially were still mired in society's mores. Tragic, funny, sexy, and sweet.
February 8, 2015
Truthfully speaking, Seven For A Secret is not just one love story, but two. Although both are told simultaneously and are set in the same city of Chicago, they take place 75 years apart from one another. One story takes place during the Roaring 20’s and is centered around Lon and Eva. Lon is a man who is attempting to discover his own place in the world, away from the societal expectations of his upbringing.
“Staring down at the floor as he strode deeper down the corridor, Lon lost his focus in observation of the intricate design, step after colorfully tiled step – until his wingtips stubbed against a marble lip rising about an inch from the floor. He looked up to meet the life-sized stone likeness of a courtier wooing a fair maiden above a fountain. The couple was white as purity and forever frozen mere inches from embrace.
“The thrill of the chase,” Lon murmured. “The only thrill there is.”
Lon isn’t looking for love, but finds it anyhow when he attends a party and meets Eva, a young and intelligent woman who immediately captures his eye.
“There was no doubt about it: she was exquisite. Lon knew this not to be a matter of his opinion, but a fact.This beauty had nothing to do with which eye beheld it. It was there, filling all eyes in the same way, no more, no less. She is for everyone.”
In stark contrast is the story of Kate and Dexter, set in the year 2000. By all accounts, Kate has found a good man in her work colleague, Dexter. But as their relationship deepens and the pressure mounts for Kate to make a long-term commitment she becomes insistent on setting boundaries by moving out of his condo and into her own studio apartment.
“The music next door had stopped, perhaps already had some time ago while she and Dex had been…what? Making love? Just passing the time? What was it that she’d really wanted when she’d walked out of that Lake Shore condo? Suddenly, she couldn’t breathe as the responsibility for Dexter’s heart crushed down on her own. Absence was only making things foggier so far.”
Kate’s desire to establish some personal distance from Dexter provides some potential complication when she notices a good looking stranger in her new building – a man she soon begins to speculate is her next door neighbor.
“Suddenly shy and anxious about what might happen next, she turned to press her palm against the wall behind her. It felt warm, a soothing contrast to her room that had just turned so cold. She imagined Hot Neighbor sitting there with his hand against the wall, too, directly opposite her. What if he’d noticed her before and wanted to get her attention? Maybe seen her around sometime, even if just out his window, and then followed the sound of her footsteps and door slams to trace her to this unit? Kind of stalkerish, but awfully flattering, Kate thought. After all, she was doing the same thing with him.”
The historical love story is dramatic and dark, while the modern contemporary tale is lighter and humorous. At first glance it might be tempting to think there is too much story within one novel, but Rumer Haven balances it all so well. Both love stories are compelling, intelligent and heart-warming. Haven’s narrative is both poetic and endearing and I quickly found myself admiring the effort and devotion that went into writing this story. There were moments in Seven For A Secret when I laughed out loud, shed a few tears and held my breath while I read.
This novel hit all the right spots emotionally for me, and I highly recommend it. Typically, I’m stingy in doling out 5 star ratings. I only do when I know that a book has made a lasting impression on me and when I know that others will feel the same way once they’ve given the story their time and attention.
Seven For A Secret receives an enthusiastic 5 star rating from me!
“Staring down at the floor as he strode deeper down the corridor, Lon lost his focus in observation of the intricate design, step after colorfully tiled step – until his wingtips stubbed against a marble lip rising about an inch from the floor. He looked up to meet the life-sized stone likeness of a courtier wooing a fair maiden above a fountain. The couple was white as purity and forever frozen mere inches from embrace.
“The thrill of the chase,” Lon murmured. “The only thrill there is.”
Lon isn’t looking for love, but finds it anyhow when he attends a party and meets Eva, a young and intelligent woman who immediately captures his eye.
“There was no doubt about it: she was exquisite. Lon knew this not to be a matter of his opinion, but a fact.This beauty had nothing to do with which eye beheld it. It was there, filling all eyes in the same way, no more, no less. She is for everyone.”
In stark contrast is the story of Kate and Dexter, set in the year 2000. By all accounts, Kate has found a good man in her work colleague, Dexter. But as their relationship deepens and the pressure mounts for Kate to make a long-term commitment she becomes insistent on setting boundaries by moving out of his condo and into her own studio apartment.
“The music next door had stopped, perhaps already had some time ago while she and Dex had been…what? Making love? Just passing the time? What was it that she’d really wanted when she’d walked out of that Lake Shore condo? Suddenly, she couldn’t breathe as the responsibility for Dexter’s heart crushed down on her own. Absence was only making things foggier so far.”
Kate’s desire to establish some personal distance from Dexter provides some potential complication when she notices a good looking stranger in her new building – a man she soon begins to speculate is her next door neighbor.
“Suddenly shy and anxious about what might happen next, she turned to press her palm against the wall behind her. It felt warm, a soothing contrast to her room that had just turned so cold. She imagined Hot Neighbor sitting there with his hand against the wall, too, directly opposite her. What if he’d noticed her before and wanted to get her attention? Maybe seen her around sometime, even if just out his window, and then followed the sound of her footsteps and door slams to trace her to this unit? Kind of stalkerish, but awfully flattering, Kate thought. After all, she was doing the same thing with him.”
The historical love story is dramatic and dark, while the modern contemporary tale is lighter and humorous. At first glance it might be tempting to think there is too much story within one novel, but Rumer Haven balances it all so well. Both love stories are compelling, intelligent and heart-warming. Haven’s narrative is both poetic and endearing and I quickly found myself admiring the effort and devotion that went into writing this story. There were moments in Seven For A Secret when I laughed out loud, shed a few tears and held my breath while I read.
This novel hit all the right spots emotionally for me, and I highly recommend it. Typically, I’m stingy in doling out 5 star ratings. I only do when I know that a book has made a lasting impression on me and when I know that others will feel the same way once they’ve given the story their time and attention.
Seven For A Secret receives an enthusiastic 5 star rating from me!
August 9, 2014
Seven for a Secret is an engrossing novel that expertly straddles dual time periods — dropping enticing crumbs along the way to keep me ravenously turning the pages. I didn’t realize how quickly the story had my mind whirring to fit all the pieces together until I’d find out that I was totally wrong. I think the only thing I was right about was…whoops, no spoilers!
The 1920s romance is one that had me aching for those two to be together (it won’t take long to figure out who “those two” are), even though the relationship appears to be impossible. There’s a persistent foreboding in that part of the story that is nicely offset by the lighter-hearted 21st century segments that alternate and intertwine with it. In the modern portion of the tale, I was surprised to find myself most taken with Kate’s growing friendship with the older set that “haunts” her apartment building. One of the funniest scenes, however, occurs in the historical setting of the Drake hotel’s tea room with the mothers-in-law battling it out via word emphasis (you’ll understand this when you read the book — and trust me, you’ll be laughing).
This story has excellent character development all around. It’s also not afraid to keep from fading to black, and I thought the author did an excellent job on the intimate scenes. The writing itself is gorgeous. I particularly enjoy the way music is woven into the narrative and also the attention to detail with vivid and original descriptions. There are several quotes throughout that beg to be reread and reflected upon, drawing me even deeper into the emotion of the story. One of my favorites: “flecks of golden dust hung suspended in the rays, ashes returning to ashes in a purgatory he now felt trapped inside.”
I love that even with all the tragedy that ensues, the story ends on a beautiful and hopeful note. I highly recommend Seven for a Secret to readers of romance, mystery, historical fiction, and literary fiction.
I found this cool teaser at the author's blog:
The 1920s romance is one that had me aching for those two to be together (it won’t take long to figure out who “those two” are), even though the relationship appears to be impossible. There’s a persistent foreboding in that part of the story that is nicely offset by the lighter-hearted 21st century segments that alternate and intertwine with it. In the modern portion of the tale, I was surprised to find myself most taken with Kate’s growing friendship with the older set that “haunts” her apartment building. One of the funniest scenes, however, occurs in the historical setting of the Drake hotel’s tea room with the mothers-in-law battling it out via word emphasis (you’ll understand this when you read the book — and trust me, you’ll be laughing).
This story has excellent character development all around. It’s also not afraid to keep from fading to black, and I thought the author did an excellent job on the intimate scenes. The writing itself is gorgeous. I particularly enjoy the way music is woven into the narrative and also the attention to detail with vivid and original descriptions. There are several quotes throughout that beg to be reread and reflected upon, drawing me even deeper into the emotion of the story. One of my favorites: “flecks of golden dust hung suspended in the rays, ashes returning to ashes in a purgatory he now felt trapped inside.”
I love that even with all the tragedy that ensues, the story ends on a beautiful and hopeful note. I highly recommend Seven for a Secret to readers of romance, mystery, historical fiction, and literary fiction.
I found this cool teaser at the author's blog:
January 4, 2016
I loved this book! The trend these days is to throw the action in your face on the first page. This book is like Christmas morning where you've anticipated the big present and slowly unwrap it wanting to savor the moment. That's not to say this is a slow moving book. Far from it! The descriptions in this book pull you in to both eras, the roaring 1920's and the modern 2000. I'm jealous of the author's ability to describe a scene without overdoing it. This book gave me the feeling of Alfred Hitchcock's movie, Rear Window. You get a glimpse of the different lives and it isn't until the end where it all comes together. The suspense is perfect and kept me turning the pages when I should've been doing mundane things like cook and clean. I'm afraid my housework suffered greatly this weekend. Don't miss this book! It will haunt me forever and has left me with a huge book hangover. It will definitely be re-read.
August 22, 2014
PSYCHOCAT READS REVIEW OF SEVEN FOR A SECRET BY RUMER HAVEN (I WAS GIVEN A FREE COPY OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.)
Before I jump into the review, let me warn you that it might sound a bit vague and generic. The lack of specifics has nothing to do with me not adoring the book, and everything to do with not wanting to spoil things for readers. This book wasn't quite what I expected, but is easily one of the most unique and intriguing books I've read.
So here's what I can tell you ...
The Characters: From a character perspective, you basically get a 2-for-1 deal. Kate and the rest of the characters that are alive and kicking in 2000 are fantastic. I found myself both cheering for Kate and wanting to knock some sense in to her depending on the moment. Leo and Vera are both fantastic! I love them both so much!
Then there's the bunch from the 1920s, especially Lon. Their story completely sucked me in and wouldn't let go. Like I said though, I can't say more without giving things away. Speaking of Lon, in my mind (and apparently some others), this is Lon ...
One note, even though the book is telling stories set in two different times with two different sets of characters, I never had an issue keeping them straight and staying grounded in the correct time for a given scene. Rumer really handled the setup brilliantly.
The Relationships: There's so much I loved here, and so much I can't say without giving things away. I will say, I really liked the relationships that developed between Kate and Vera and Kate and Leo.
Too Perfect or Perfectly Flawed: Absolute perfection in an amazing and flawed story of life and love across two different time periods.
An Extra Note: Even if you aren't a fan of the paranormal and don't believe in ghosts, this book is well worth the read. Yes, they play a role in Kate's piece of the story, but the truly engaging and emotionally compelling elements of the story will capture you even if you prefer to ignore the ghosts.
Jen's Final Review: 5 STARS!! One of the most unique books I've read. The characters and stories were engaging, and Rumer manages to keep surprising me to the very end. I'll definitely be watching for more from this author.
Psychocat's Final Review: 5 CLAWS! The psychotic feline finds the idea of sticking around in the after life quite appealing. Hopefully she doesn't succeed because it would render our house uninhabitable.
On a different note, if you missed out on the SEVEN FOR A SECRET release day festivities on Twitter and the Facebook party, you missed a ton of fun!
Before I jump into the review, let me warn you that it might sound a bit vague and generic. The lack of specifics has nothing to do with me not adoring the book, and everything to do with not wanting to spoil things for readers. This book wasn't quite what I expected, but is easily one of the most unique and intriguing books I've read.
So here's what I can tell you ...
The Characters: From a character perspective, you basically get a 2-for-1 deal. Kate and the rest of the characters that are alive and kicking in 2000 are fantastic. I found myself both cheering for Kate and wanting to knock some sense in to her depending on the moment. Leo and Vera are both fantastic! I love them both so much!
Then there's the bunch from the 1920s, especially Lon. Their story completely sucked me in and wouldn't let go. Like I said though, I can't say more without giving things away. Speaking of Lon, in my mind (and apparently some others), this is Lon ...
One note, even though the book is telling stories set in two different times with two different sets of characters, I never had an issue keeping them straight and staying grounded in the correct time for a given scene. Rumer really handled the setup brilliantly.
The Relationships: There's so much I loved here, and so much I can't say without giving things away. I will say, I really liked the relationships that developed between Kate and Vera and Kate and Leo.
Too Perfect or Perfectly Flawed: Absolute perfection in an amazing and flawed story of life and love across two different time periods.
An Extra Note: Even if you aren't a fan of the paranormal and don't believe in ghosts, this book is well worth the read. Yes, they play a role in Kate's piece of the story, but the truly engaging and emotionally compelling elements of the story will capture you even if you prefer to ignore the ghosts.
Jen's Final Review: 5 STARS!! One of the most unique books I've read. The characters and stories were engaging, and Rumer manages to keep surprising me to the very end. I'll definitely be watching for more from this author.
Psychocat's Final Review: 5 CLAWS! The psychotic feline finds the idea of sticking around in the after life quite appealing. Hopefully she doesn't succeed because it would render our house uninhabitable.
On a different note, if you missed out on the SEVEN FOR A SECRET release day festivities on Twitter and the Facebook party, you missed a ton of fun!
March 20, 2015
Exceptional. This books is unlike any book I've ever read and therefore I will remember it. It is far more than just an enjoyable read. It is brilliantly laid out with a cast of characters that are expertly woven together until it all makes perfect sense at the end. The writing is detailed and almost lyrical. It took me a few chapters to really get into it but once I did it completely and totally caught my attention and imagination. I was torn which storyline I loved more the 2000 one or the 1920's. Lon and Eva are dark and tragic yet the entire book I just wanted them to have a chance. I loved those two. I thought Kate's lighter contemporary story offset the dark one. The humor was also unexpected and helped lighten the serious tone. The ending.... I did not have it all figured out so I read and read because I had to know! How it's all woven together is some seriouse talent. Highly recommend this.
September 15, 2014
I bought this book on a Thursday and finished it on a Saturday! I bought this book on a Thursday and finished it on a Saturday --- it was so great that my eyes did not want to leave the pages. A must read that intertwines stories from two different eras that are relatable, entertaining, full of humor, action, and adventure. Usually I save my reading for before bed but I found myself picking up this book while I commuted to work and waited for appointments. It was a pleasure to read from start to finish and I will look forward to reading what Rumer Haven has for her readers next!
Want to read
August 12, 2014The plot seems very original-which drew me in right away. I love the concept of having the old together with the new-I'm excited to read this!
February 20, 2015
I won this in a Goodreads competition.
This book is not what I expected, take that how you will. I think 2 and a half stars is more appropriate rating for this book.
In the year 2000, 25 year old Kate moves out of her boyfriends apartment to live on her own. She moves into a former 1920s hotel, Camden Court. Over the years people have come and gone through the many years weather they've moved out or not. One of these residents that have passed on is 90 year old Olive who has a secret she took with the grave just bursting at the seems to be revealed about her dream lover Lon. Vera and Leo, older residents at Camden Court befriend Kate and they discover the connectedness of their lives to those that lived in the 1920s.
This novel cleverly entwines clues to join the two worlds together for the reader to unravel and reveal the truth behind the characters histories.
Where do I start? I guess I'll begin with clarifying the questions and explaining the small details I liked I had before reading this novel. From the blurb I was expecting an interesting adult twist on The Mortal Instruments series mixed with historial fiction after reading the word "supernatural." Although I was mistaken as this book only involves ghosts and at that the ghosts are only a very minimal part of the novel so in my opinion I think the word "supernatural" should have been replaced with "paranormal" just because "supernatural" is such a broad term in my mind. I could be wrong here but for anyone with the same thoughts of the word definitions, don't expect to go into this book expecting werewolves and vampires as such.
Originally I was shocked to find a novel set in the year 2000 to be a historical-fiction novel as it seemed too recent but as I read through the first part of the novel I soon realised there was an extra element that returns to the lives of three well off families in the 1920s starting from 1925 to 1927. This was a welcomed surprise as I understood why it was classified as a historical-fiction novel and I wasn't just feeling old.
Seven For A Secret opened with a "traditional children's nursery rhyme" and each line of this was then made into parts to separate the book into depending on the progression of events and the book. The chapter numbers were then displayed as Roman numerals possibly to help tie the historical aspect together with the modern.
To be brutally honest, I only read the first 50 or so pages until I couldn't stand it any longer and had to skim over details and skip ahead in the book tor reach something that caught my fancy which was when the first encounter with ghostly activity came at around page 120. I even fell asleep during the day while trying to read the beginning. This is really the only thing that let this book down in it's rating as it seemed to go on for forever and it bored me and I was close to putting it down and only reviewing the first few parts if any at all but thank fully as it progressed the story picked up and engrossed me completely. By the end I'd grown fond of all the characters in both time periods and with all the information cleared and understood I appreciated the novel and was sad when it ended.
I really enjoyed Rumer Haven's use of foreshadowing to subtly deliver information to the reader to join the two time periods together and if noted closely the reader can realise how characters are connected and their histories before it is officially revealed. Haven's outstanding description also aids with how well the foreshadowing works and I often found what I had imagined to happen was then described a line or two later which completed and confirmed what was playing in my head as I read.
One last thing to add before I conclude is that the use of letters gave depth to the 1920s characters and was an interesting way to announce subtle clues. The nice touch of changing fonts depending on character to show their handwriting gave them a uniqueness and strengthened their different personalities that couldn't have been appreciated without the font change.
Overall this book was an okay read and think it will be fully appreciated if read more than once to allow the reader to go back and pick up all the clues previously missed and realise how great Rummer Haven's talent of foreshadowing is.
This book is not what I expected, take that how you will. I think 2 and a half stars is more appropriate rating for this book.
In the year 2000, 25 year old Kate moves out of her boyfriends apartment to live on her own. She moves into a former 1920s hotel, Camden Court. Over the years people have come and gone through the many years weather they've moved out or not. One of these residents that have passed on is 90 year old Olive who has a secret she took with the grave just bursting at the seems to be revealed about her dream lover Lon. Vera and Leo, older residents at Camden Court befriend Kate and they discover the connectedness of their lives to those that lived in the 1920s.
This novel cleverly entwines clues to join the two worlds together for the reader to unravel and reveal the truth behind the characters histories.
Where do I start? I guess I'll begin with clarifying the questions and explaining the small details I liked I had before reading this novel. From the blurb I was expecting an interesting adult twist on The Mortal Instruments series mixed with historial fiction after reading the word "supernatural." Although I was mistaken as this book only involves ghosts and at that the ghosts are only a very minimal part of the novel so in my opinion I think the word "supernatural" should have been replaced with "paranormal" just because "supernatural" is such a broad term in my mind. I could be wrong here but for anyone with the same thoughts of the word definitions, don't expect to go into this book expecting werewolves and vampires as such.
Originally I was shocked to find a novel set in the year 2000 to be a historical-fiction novel as it seemed too recent but as I read through the first part of the novel I soon realised there was an extra element that returns to the lives of three well off families in the 1920s starting from 1925 to 1927. This was a welcomed surprise as I understood why it was classified as a historical-fiction novel and I wasn't just feeling old.
Seven For A Secret opened with a "traditional children's nursery rhyme" and each line of this was then made into parts to separate the book into depending on the progression of events and the book. The chapter numbers were then displayed as Roman numerals possibly to help tie the historical aspect together with the modern.
To be brutally honest, I only read the first 50 or so pages until I couldn't stand it any longer and had to skim over details and skip ahead in the book tor reach something that caught my fancy which was when the first encounter with ghostly activity came at around page 120. I even fell asleep during the day while trying to read the beginning. This is really the only thing that let this book down in it's rating as it seemed to go on for forever and it bored me and I was close to putting it down and only reviewing the first few parts if any at all but thank fully as it progressed the story picked up and engrossed me completely. By the end I'd grown fond of all the characters in both time periods and with all the information cleared and understood I appreciated the novel and was sad when it ended.
I really enjoyed Rumer Haven's use of foreshadowing to subtly deliver information to the reader to join the two time periods together and if noted closely the reader can realise how characters are connected and their histories before it is officially revealed. Haven's outstanding description also aids with how well the foreshadowing works and I often found what I had imagined to happen was then described a line or two later which completed and confirmed what was playing in my head as I read.
One last thing to add before I conclude is that the use of letters gave depth to the 1920s characters and was an interesting way to announce subtle clues. The nice touch of changing fonts depending on character to show their handwriting gave them a uniqueness and strengthened their different personalities that couldn't have been appreciated without the font change.
Overall this book was an okay read and think it will be fully appreciated if read more than once to allow the reader to go back and pick up all the clues previously missed and realise how great Rummer Haven's talent of foreshadowing is.
January 26, 2016
Seven For A Secret gave me mixed emotions. The story takes place in both the 1920s and the year 2000. Both time periods, however, were connected and interlaced. I love the 1920s but this story paints a different picture of who the flappers were and somehow it did not seem as romantic. It sheds a different point of view on that time period, but I still could not put this book down.
Kate moves into an apartment complex and soon finds that it’s haunted. The paranormal theme only came through in Kate’s story. She soon finds that everything is interconnected and becomes interested in the story behind the ghost that now lives with her. Kate was a fun character. She moves out of her boyfriend’s apartment to prove a point that she is an independent woman. Her feeling of wanting more out of life and not seeing the good thing she has in her relationship makes for an interesting character. Kate had selfish motives and was mean to her boyfriend, but then again, who wants to feel like they have to settle? It was interesting to see where she ended up.
However, on the flip side, we have the story going on in the 1920s. It wasn’t as lighthearted as Kate’s and I found that I was dreading the outcome. For it set the tone of foreboding and “This is not going to end well for anyone.” The theme here was star crossed lovers and sadness. But it was a very interesting drama that unfolded. Very well written characters that made you wish for good things to happen to them.
The author’s writing is very well done. She is very descriptive and I found myself able to picture in my mind all that was going on. What the characters were wearing, the scenes, and even the feelings. POVs did change between characters and that gave insight to their thought processes. All in all, I hoped for a happier tale, but with every bit of sadness there is that one speck of light that shines through and I think that’s what the ending wanted to portray.
Kate moves into an apartment complex and soon finds that it’s haunted. The paranormal theme only came through in Kate’s story. She soon finds that everything is interconnected and becomes interested in the story behind the ghost that now lives with her. Kate was a fun character. She moves out of her boyfriend’s apartment to prove a point that she is an independent woman. Her feeling of wanting more out of life and not seeing the good thing she has in her relationship makes for an interesting character. Kate had selfish motives and was mean to her boyfriend, but then again, who wants to feel like they have to settle? It was interesting to see where she ended up.
However, on the flip side, we have the story going on in the 1920s. It wasn’t as lighthearted as Kate’s and I found that I was dreading the outcome. For it set the tone of foreboding and “This is not going to end well for anyone.” The theme here was star crossed lovers and sadness. But it was a very interesting drama that unfolded. Very well written characters that made you wish for good things to happen to them.
The author’s writing is very well done. She is very descriptive and I found myself able to picture in my mind all that was going on. What the characters were wearing, the scenes, and even the feelings. POVs did change between characters and that gave insight to their thought processes. All in all, I hoped for a happier tale, but with every bit of sadness there is that one speck of light that shines through and I think that’s what the ending wanted to portray.
December 31, 2015
A captivating story
It’s the year 2000. Kate is living with her boyfriend Dexter but she’s not sure whether he or the relationship is right for her. She decides she needs to be more independent and moves to a new apartment in a former 1920’s hotel known as Camden Court.
Camden Court has been a home to many lonely individuals over the decades. There have even been some deaths, some of them tragic. Some spirits haven’t left and continue to make their presence known. One of them is Olive the former resident of Kate’s apartment who has a secret of her own which she is desperate to tell.
Soon after moving in, Kate befriends Vera and Leo, residents of the same apartment complex and through them learns more of Olive’s story. Kate is also attracted to a hot guy living in the building and from the noises she hears next door, believes he might be her neighbour but soon finds out the building is perhaps more haunted then she thinks.
The book has two timelines. One set in the turbulent 1920s tells the story of Olive and the tragic love of Lon and Eva. The other is set at the beginning of the new millennium and tells Kate’s story.
The story was captivating. It had an almost mystical feel to it, a little bit dark and sad at times, especially for the timeline set in the past. Kate’s story in the present has a lighter feel to it. Very cleverly interwoven in both timelines are very subtle bits of humour which add an extra dimension to the story.
The Characters were very well developed and felt natural. Overall this is an original, well written story. The book is a mixture of historical and literary fiction with a bit of romance and paranormal phenomenon combined. Fans of such genres will enjoy the book.
Review copy provided by Reading alley in exchange for a honest review.
It’s the year 2000. Kate is living with her boyfriend Dexter but she’s not sure whether he or the relationship is right for her. She decides she needs to be more independent and moves to a new apartment in a former 1920’s hotel known as Camden Court.
Camden Court has been a home to many lonely individuals over the decades. There have even been some deaths, some of them tragic. Some spirits haven’t left and continue to make their presence known. One of them is Olive the former resident of Kate’s apartment who has a secret of her own which she is desperate to tell.
Soon after moving in, Kate befriends Vera and Leo, residents of the same apartment complex and through them learns more of Olive’s story. Kate is also attracted to a hot guy living in the building and from the noises she hears next door, believes he might be her neighbour but soon finds out the building is perhaps more haunted then she thinks.
The book has two timelines. One set in the turbulent 1920s tells the story of Olive and the tragic love of Lon and Eva. The other is set at the beginning of the new millennium and tells Kate’s story.
The story was captivating. It had an almost mystical feel to it, a little bit dark and sad at times, especially for the timeline set in the past. Kate’s story in the present has a lighter feel to it. Very cleverly interwoven in both timelines are very subtle bits of humour which add an extra dimension to the story.
The Characters were very well developed and felt natural. Overall this is an original, well written story. The book is a mixture of historical and literary fiction with a bit of romance and paranormal phenomenon combined. Fans of such genres will enjoy the book.
Review copy provided by Reading alley in exchange for a honest review.
March 2, 2016
This was an enjoyable story. The author has written a creative story of love and loss and mystery. The story alternates between the modern day and the 1920s as the main character, Kate, tries to learn more about Olive, the woman who occupied the apartment before her and whose spirit seems to haunt the apartment. Assisting in her efforts, albeit not entirely willingly, are Leo, the complex manager/maintenance man, and Vera, a long-time resident. The 1920s portion focuses on members of several well-to-do Chicago families whose lives and fortunes are inter-related and who are not quite what they seem, with secrets and desires that they cannot make public without potential devastating effects. The author does a great job of revealing just enough information about the 1920s characters and their connection to this apartment complex to keep the reader intrigued and eager to find out the whole story. She also does a good job of tying together the love story from the 1920s with the romantic endeavors and uncertainties of Kate. This book is well worth the read.
I reviewed a copy of the ebook from Reading Alley in exchange for a review.
I reviewed a copy of the ebook from Reading Alley in exchange for a review.
July 9, 2015
Aaah, I love the 20ies, and I love Chicago! So this tale of star-crossed lovers, high-society girl Evelyn "Eva" Hughes and dreamer Lon, interwoven with a modern love story set in modern Chicago - by a ghost story! - it really ticked my personal boxes.
There are many characters and many time jumps, loads of ins and outs, but Rumer Haven expertly manages to keep the balls in the air, not dropping them until the end. Only question that was left for me in the end was about Vera's real mother, which confused me a bit.
I especially liked the great atmosphere that Rumer Haven can evoke during her story, and the eloquency with which she adapted her language from modern to sophisticated 20ies Highclass-repartee with ease. Entertaining, touching, great read.
Sehr atmosphärischer Roman, der im Chicago der 20ies und der jungen 2000er spielt - unterhaltsam, berührend und äußerst eloquent geschrieben! Aber bisher nur auf Englisch erhältlich ...
There are many characters and many time jumps, loads of ins and outs, but Rumer Haven expertly manages to keep the balls in the air, not dropping them until the end. Only question that was left for me in the end was about Vera's real mother, which confused me a bit.
I especially liked the great atmosphere that Rumer Haven can evoke during her story, and the eloquency with which she adapted her language from modern to sophisticated 20ies Highclass-repartee with ease. Entertaining, touching, great read.
Sehr atmosphärischer Roman, der im Chicago der 20ies und der jungen 2000er spielt - unterhaltsam, berührend und äußerst eloquent geschrieben! Aber bisher nur auf Englisch erhältlich ...
September 15, 2014
As a busy person that is guilty of reading a book half way through, putting it down and never looking back....I can assure you that Seven for a Secret will suck you in and keep you coming back for more until you have read every last word. The characters are introduced quickly and relatably and the story slowly unfolds to keep you wondering what is coming next. Before you know it, you are caught between a hilarious and touching story set in the summer of 2000 in Chicago and a glamorous and tragically romantic 1920s story set in the same neighborhood. Though the reader is guessing on the outcome during the entire story, it all comes together in a satisfying tale of love, happiness, sadness, loss.....and hope! Give it a go, you won't be let down!
October 8, 2014
Ms. Haven has written a wonderful novel that straddles two time periods. The love story of the 1920's breaks your heart wondering how they can make the impossible happen. Although there is a dark side of the story, it is mixed with light-heartedness as well during the current time. I adored my Grandparents and felt at ease with Kate befriending the ghosts that live in her apartment building.
The characters develop and pull you in. I found myself turning looking for the music mentioned throughout the book and loved the way it drew me into the book.
If you are a reader of mystery, historical or literary fiction, or romance I would recommend Seven for a Secret.
The characters develop and pull you in. I found myself turning looking for the music mentioned throughout the book and loved the way it drew me into the book.
If you are a reader of mystery, historical or literary fiction, or romance I would recommend Seven for a Secret.
November 7, 2014
This was an ARC book through Goodreads. Seven For A Secret is an excellent book, the characters are well developed and the weaving of the 1920's and 2000 is done in a superb way to grab your attention. With a surprise ending that I certainly did not see coming. Looking forward to reading more from Ms. Ruler Haven!
October 28, 2014
Great story! It took me a little while to really get into it and keep track of the flipping back and forth between present and past but once I did I couldn't put it down. Both story lines kept me interested and the character development was very good.
September 30, 2014
This book is the best for mystery and/or Chicago lovers! This book had me hooked. There wasn't enough time in the day to finish! I wasn't sure about the "romance novel" aspect of it but it's just a great book with some sauciness along the way. You won't be disappointed!!!!
November 4, 2014
A fabulous ghost story set in Chicago. Loved it!
October 13, 2014
Seven for a Secret is an engaging mystery with a great cast of well developed characters. I really enjoyed unraveling the mystery with Kate.
April 25, 2015
You can read my full review here.
March 10, 2018
How to express my love for this story? The intertwining story of life in the 1920s to the present 2000, felt authentic and kept me locked in from page one. Such a detailed world, from their homes, clothes, how they talked and lived their complicated lives, had me enthralled.
As for the climax, dear god, where all the pieces of the puzzle slotted into place, and had me reeling with the losses, but left me all, dreamy and fuzzy inside.
I think I'd sum this book as being 'precious', just as the people in the story where.
Thank you Rumer, I adored your characters and beautiful tale.
As for the climax, dear god, where all the pieces of the puzzle slotted into place, and had me reeling with the losses, but left me all, dreamy and fuzzy inside.
I think I'd sum this book as being 'precious', just as the people in the story where.
Thank you Rumer, I adored your characters and beautiful tale.
September 16, 2017
An incredibly intricate tale. I read it straight through .
Love and relationships. Secrets and lies. Life , death and beyond.
I recommend this all!
5 stars
Love and relationships. Secrets and lies. Life , death and beyond.
I recommend this all!
5 stars
March 12, 2016
Seven for a Secret by Rumer Haven begins quickly and catches your attention right away. Unfortunately, after that, it drops quickly for a bit, and takes a while for the story to resume its climb upward. It takes about a quarter of the way into the book before anything really happens. The book is told in two alternating time lines and it takes quite a while before the two time lines bring the story to life. The author does have a way with words and I enjoyed reading this one. I do love ghost stories and this sort of fit the bill for me in that respect. I don't want to give too much away, but I shall be looking out for more books by this author.
Disclaimer: I received a free review copy from Reading Alley in exchange for my fair and honest review.
Disclaimer: I received a free review copy from Reading Alley in exchange for my fair and honest review.
March 15, 2016
I loved this story! Or, stories, I should say. Rumer Haven somehow manages to keep two stories equally engaging though they are separated by the better part of a century. Her characters are relatable and real, and the elements of the supernatural woven throughout the story seem so believable when viewed through their lenses. Seven for a Secret will appeal to a broad range of readers too - lovers of romance, suspense, historical fiction and literary fiction will all appreciate this beautifully written novel. I'll definitely read her future releases!
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