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One Fatal Secret
Sometimes your enemies are closer than you think....
Nicole Jameson has always been proud of her husband, Ethan. He's built a successful career in finance, and his employers, the Harrisons, treat them like family. They're a firm who look after their own, and even gave a loan to the company chauffeur, Conrad, to fund his pilot licence.
When the two men are returning from a business trip, the worst possible thing happens—their plane crashes into the sea. No survivors are expected to be found. Nicole is heartbroken, much like Conrad's wife, Ania. She never warmed to Nicole, but now they share a bond of grief.
When evidence is found that Conrad took drugs shortly before the plane departed with him at the controls, the two women begin to wonder if all is not what it seems. But when they ask questions about events leading up to the crash, unsettling occurrences suggest it wasn't a good idea. Sinister-looking men follow them, the Harrisons are increasingly cagey, and the women wonder if there is not more to this than a tragic accident.
But are the most dangerous people the ones they have already allowed to get too close...?
A compelling psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the end. Perfect for fans of S. E. Lynes, Lauren North and Jane Corry.
Nicole Jameson has always been proud of her husband, Ethan. He's built a successful career in finance, and his employers, the Harrisons, treat them like family. They're a firm who look after their own, and even gave a loan to the company chauffeur, Conrad, to fund his pilot licence.
When the two men are returning from a business trip, the worst possible thing happens—their plane crashes into the sea. No survivors are expected to be found. Nicole is heartbroken, much like Conrad's wife, Ania. She never warmed to Nicole, but now they share a bond of grief.
When evidence is found that Conrad took drugs shortly before the plane departed with him at the controls, the two women begin to wonder if all is not what it seems. But when they ask questions about events leading up to the crash, unsettling occurrences suggest it wasn't a good idea. Sinister-looking men follow them, the Harrisons are increasingly cagey, and the women wonder if there is not more to this than a tragic accident.
But are the most dangerous people the ones they have already allowed to get too close...?
A compelling psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the end. Perfect for fans of S. E. Lynes, Lauren North and Jane Corry.
Audible Audio
First published June 16, 2022
29 people are currently reading
302 people want to read
About the author
Jane Isaac
45 books348 followersJane Isaac is married to a retired detective and they live in rural Northamptonshire, UK with their dogs, Bollo and Digity.
Jane is author of three bestselling detective series: DCI Helen Lavery, DI Will Jackman (based in Stratford upon Avon), and DC Beth Chamberlain (a Family Liaison Officer). She also writes standalone suspense novels.
Her books have been nominated as best mystery in the 'eFestival of Words Best of the Independent eBook awards' and selected as 'Thriller of the Month' by E-thriller.com.
Jane loves to hear from readers and writers. You can reach her via her website at www.janeisaac.co.uk where you can join her Readers' Club for information on new releases.
Jane is author of three bestselling detective series: DCI Helen Lavery, DI Will Jackman (based in Stratford upon Avon), and DC Beth Chamberlain (a Family Liaison Officer). She also writes standalone suspense novels.
Her books have been nominated as best mystery in the 'eFestival of Words Best of the Independent eBook awards' and selected as 'Thriller of the Month' by E-thriller.com.
Jane loves to hear from readers and writers. You can reach her via her website at www.janeisaac.co.uk where you can join her Readers' Club for information on new releases.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
June 18, 2022
3.5 rounded up
Nicole Jameson‘s life as she knows it comes to an end with the arrival of her husband Ethan‘s boss David Harrison and his wife Olivia on her doorstep with some shocking news. The company private jet with Ethan on board along with pilot Conrad disappears from air traffic control radar four hours ago over the English Channel. Later, a body is found which is identified as Conrad with a search for Ethan eventually called off. Why did careful Conrad have Zopiclone in his system? Why is his wife Ania full of suspicion? Is it paranoia or good gut instincts? This is certainly a case of the mysterious getting mysteriouser as very strange and concerning things occur, it’s not just odd it feels claustrophobic especially as several characters suspicions increase.
The plot thickens, there are prickles on the back of your neck and keep your enemies closer scenario develops. There’s plenty of action in the storyline to keep the interest in what is transpiring. The danger grows and intensifies and there are a couple of shocks in store as you come to appreciate the depth of lies with one character finding themselves caught between a rock and a hard place. The conclusion is good and a case of just desserts.
The characterisation is good and you feel the loss and grief of the women mixed in with deepening guilt. Initially Ania is not easy to like but she grows on you and your root for Nicole especially with the decisions she has to make.
Overall, it’s an entertaining easy read.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Canelo for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Nicole Jameson‘s life as she knows it comes to an end with the arrival of her husband Ethan‘s boss David Harrison and his wife Olivia on her doorstep with some shocking news. The company private jet with Ethan on board along with pilot Conrad disappears from air traffic control radar four hours ago over the English Channel. Later, a body is found which is identified as Conrad with a search for Ethan eventually called off. Why did careful Conrad have Zopiclone in his system? Why is his wife Ania full of suspicion? Is it paranoia or good gut instincts? This is certainly a case of the mysterious getting mysteriouser as very strange and concerning things occur, it’s not just odd it feels claustrophobic especially as several characters suspicions increase.
The plot thickens, there are prickles on the back of your neck and keep your enemies closer scenario develops. There’s plenty of action in the storyline to keep the interest in what is transpiring. The danger grows and intensifies and there are a couple of shocks in store as you come to appreciate the depth of lies with one character finding themselves caught between a rock and a hard place. The conclusion is good and a case of just desserts.
The characterisation is good and you feel the loss and grief of the women mixed in with deepening guilt. Initially Ania is not easy to like but she grows on you and your root for Nicole especially with the decisions she has to make.
Overall, it’s an entertaining easy read.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Canelo for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
June 14, 2022
ONE FATAL SECRET is a standalone psychological thriller by bestselling author Jane Isaac.
Nicole Jameson and her successful husband, Ethan had made a career in Finance and they were blessed with two young children, Katie and Finlay.
Nicole was waiting anxiously for her husband, Ethan to show up at her father’s 70th birthday celebration, but no call or text?
David Harrison, Ethan’s boss, and wife, Olivia show up at the party with tragic news regarding Ethan. The Company’s private jet had crashed into the sea, where two men, Ethan, returning from a business trip and the company chauffeur/pilot, Conrad were now presumed dead. No survivors are expected to be found.
Nicole and Conrad’s wife, Ania were heartbroken.
After further investigation, it was found that Conrad took drugs shortly before the plane departed with him at the controls, the two women begin to wonder if all is not what it seems.
They both start to ask questions…but they are put off.
They then find themselves being followed. The Harrison’s are aloof. Was this more than a tragic accident?
A compelling psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the final page.
This is a well-written, domestic thriller, that starts off a little slow, but builds slowly with enough red herrings along the path to satisfy the reader.
Many thanks to the author and The Book Club Reviewer Request Group (FB) for my digital copy.
Nicole Jameson and her successful husband, Ethan had made a career in Finance and they were blessed with two young children, Katie and Finlay.
Nicole was waiting anxiously for her husband, Ethan to show up at her father’s 70th birthday celebration, but no call or text?
David Harrison, Ethan’s boss, and wife, Olivia show up at the party with tragic news regarding Ethan. The Company’s private jet had crashed into the sea, where two men, Ethan, returning from a business trip and the company chauffeur/pilot, Conrad were now presumed dead. No survivors are expected to be found.
Nicole and Conrad’s wife, Ania were heartbroken.
After further investigation, it was found that Conrad took drugs shortly before the plane departed with him at the controls, the two women begin to wonder if all is not what it seems.
They both start to ask questions…but they are put off.
They then find themselves being followed. The Harrison’s are aloof. Was this more than a tragic accident?
A compelling psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the final page.
This is a well-written, domestic thriller, that starts off a little slow, but builds slowly with enough red herrings along the path to satisfy the reader.
Many thanks to the author and The Book Club Reviewer Request Group (FB) for my digital copy.
June 20, 2022
3.5*
One Fatal Secret is a standalone psychological suspense-thriller from English author Jane Isaac. Having previously enjoyed her D.C.I. Helen Lavery police procedural series, I was delighted to be selected as an early reader.
The book is set around a fascinating premise - two very different women are drawn together following a plane crash over the English Channel, in which both their husbands have been killed. However, questions are raised about the causes of the crash, and the remains of only one of the men are found. Was what happened simply a tragic accident, or was the crash the result of something shady going on at the finance company both men worked for?
One Fatal Secret is a solid psychological suspense-thriller, with strong female characterisations and a developing relationship based around a shared search for justice. The story draws the reader in right from the first page, and I found myself becoming really engrossed in the plot and characters during the first half. However, I felt that the narrative lost momentum somewhat during the second half, just when the tension should have ramped up, following an earth-shattering revelation. The ending also seemed a little contrived and rushed, and perhaps just too tidy, after such a gradual build-up. I was left waiting for a last thrilling twist that just never came.
Jane Isaac is also the author of three well-regarded police procedural series, featuring D.C.I. Helen Lavery, D.C. Beth Chamberlain and D.I. Will Jackman respectively. She's previously penned one other standalone psychological thriller, One Good Lie.
I'd recommend One Fatal Secret to readers who enjoy psychological thrillers based around character relationships, as well as an engaging plot.
My thanks to the author, Jane Isaac, publisher Canelo and NetGalley (UK) for the opportunity to read and review this title.
One Fatal Secret is a standalone psychological suspense-thriller from English author Jane Isaac. Having previously enjoyed her D.C.I. Helen Lavery police procedural series, I was delighted to be selected as an early reader.
The book is set around a fascinating premise - two very different women are drawn together following a plane crash over the English Channel, in which both their husbands have been killed. However, questions are raised about the causes of the crash, and the remains of only one of the men are found. Was what happened simply a tragic accident, or was the crash the result of something shady going on at the finance company both men worked for?
"A month ago, she'd have screamed and hollered if a man had accosted her in the street and bundled her into a nearby vehicle. But that was before the crash. Before life changed irrevocably." (Loc.62)As both Nicole and Ania begin to question the "official" narrative of what happened to their husbands, Ethan and Conrad, events occur that reinforce their shared belief that there's more to the story than they're being told. Each notices mysterious strangers hanging around, apparently watching their homes. Nicole is approached by a man purporting to represent intelligence services, and she notices signs that her home has been broken into and searched. Ania is seriously injured in a deliberate incident while tracing Conrad's last movements prior to his death. Should the women walk away with the generous payouts their husband's company is offering, and leave the issue alone for the sake of their own and their children's safety? Or must they follow their shared determination to get to the bottom of what really happened to Ethan and Conrad, and why?
One Fatal Secret is a solid psychological suspense-thriller, with strong female characterisations and a developing relationship based around a shared search for justice. The story draws the reader in right from the first page, and I found myself becoming really engrossed in the plot and characters during the first half. However, I felt that the narrative lost momentum somewhat during the second half, just when the tension should have ramped up, following an earth-shattering revelation. The ending also seemed a little contrived and rushed, and perhaps just too tidy, after such a gradual build-up. I was left waiting for a last thrilling twist that just never came.
Jane Isaac is also the author of three well-regarded police procedural series, featuring D.C.I. Helen Lavery, D.C. Beth Chamberlain and D.I. Will Jackman respectively. She's previously penned one other standalone psychological thriller, One Good Lie.
I'd recommend One Fatal Secret to readers who enjoy psychological thrillers based around character relationships, as well as an engaging plot.
My thanks to the author, Jane Isaac, publisher Canelo and NetGalley (UK) for the opportunity to read and review this title.
June 3, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up
Nicole Jamieson has always been proud of her husband Ethan. He's built a successful career in finance, and his employers, the Harrison's, treat him like family. They're a firm who look after their own, and even gave a loan to the company chauffer, Conrad, to fund his pilots licence. When the two men are returning from a business trip, the worst possible thing happens - their plane crashes into the sea. No survivors are expected to be found. Nicole is heartbroken, much like Conrad's wife. Ania. She never warmed to Nicole, but now they showed a bond in grief. But evidence is found that Conrad took drugs shortly before the plane departed, with him at the controls.
I was quickly pulled into this story that's filled with red herrings and twists. The pace is steady from the beginning and the tension builds throughout. It will also mess with your emotions. Nicole and Ania form a bond over their grief. They have their suspicions and start to do some investigating of their own. I really liked the conclusion to this story, but it was just lacking something a bit more gritty.
I would like to thank #Netgalley #Canelo and the author #JaneIsaac for my ARC of #OneFatalSecret in exchange for an honest review.
Nicole Jamieson has always been proud of her husband Ethan. He's built a successful career in finance, and his employers, the Harrison's, treat him like family. They're a firm who look after their own, and even gave a loan to the company chauffer, Conrad, to fund his pilots licence. When the two men are returning from a business trip, the worst possible thing happens - their plane crashes into the sea. No survivors are expected to be found. Nicole is heartbroken, much like Conrad's wife. Ania. She never warmed to Nicole, but now they showed a bond in grief. But evidence is found that Conrad took drugs shortly before the plane departed, with him at the controls.
I was quickly pulled into this story that's filled with red herrings and twists. The pace is steady from the beginning and the tension builds throughout. It will also mess with your emotions. Nicole and Ania form a bond over their grief. They have their suspicions and start to do some investigating of their own. I really liked the conclusion to this story, but it was just lacking something a bit more gritty.
I would like to thank #Netgalley #Canelo and the author #JaneIsaac for my ARC of #OneFatalSecret in exchange for an honest review.
June 19, 2022
This was a very enjoyable read of secrets and lies!
A plane crashes, and the two wives (of the pilots) are left behind, dealing with the aftermath and the revelations that come from the subsequent investigation.
This was a seriously addictive read, and becomes rather dark as the book progresses, which I loved.
The wives were both likeable, and I found myself reeling with them from the secrets that came out, and feeling their shock and trauma too.
I did find it a little tricky to keep track of which wife was married to which pilot for some reason, so I had to keep checking back at certain points.
A really fantastic read!
A plane crashes, and the two wives (of the pilots) are left behind, dealing with the aftermath and the revelations that come from the subsequent investigation.
This was a seriously addictive read, and becomes rather dark as the book progresses, which I loved.
The wives were both likeable, and I found myself reeling with them from the secrets that came out, and feeling their shock and trauma too.
I did find it a little tricky to keep track of which wife was married to which pilot for some reason, so I had to keep checking back at certain points.
A really fantastic read!
June 13, 2022
A financial meeting ends in a plane crash with a dead pilot and a missing passenger. The widow of the pilot Ania suspects foul play but no one believes her and she along with Nicole, the passengers wife, after some reluctance work together to get to the truth.
One Fatal Secret by Jane Isaac is a great read with enough secrets and twists and turns to discover that keeps misleading the reader .
I would like to thank the TBC Reviewers Request Group & the author for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and fair review
One Fatal Secret by Jane Isaac is a great read with enough secrets and twists and turns to discover that keeps misleading the reader .
I would like to thank the TBC Reviewers Request Group & the author for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and fair review
May 24, 2022
Nicole's world comes crashing down one day when she learns that her husband has died in a plane crash. He was travelling in his company's private jet for some client assignment with his trusted pilot, Conrad. Conrad has died, too.
Ania is Conrad's wife. Though Nicole and Ania have never been close, this tragedy brings them together. However, Ania suspects there is more to their husbands' death than the company owners are letting on.
What if what Ania says is true? Who can Nicole trust? And what if the person you trust most is the one who will betray you?
The Positives:
The story got going at full tilt right from the prologue. The intrigue kept building and the story was quite enjoyable.
The twists came coming relentlessly and without warning - the best kinds of twists.
The Negatives:
There were some plot holes. I can't say much without giving away spoilers but there were quite some unanswered questions at the end.
I have read Jane Isaac's One Good Lie last year and I have to say her writing is fluid and quite enjoyable. I will look forward to reading more from her.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Ania is Conrad's wife. Though Nicole and Ania have never been close, this tragedy brings them together. However, Ania suspects there is more to their husbands' death than the company owners are letting on.
What if what Ania says is true? Who can Nicole trust? And what if the person you trust most is the one who will betray you?
The Positives:
The story got going at full tilt right from the prologue. The intrigue kept building and the story was quite enjoyable.
The twists came coming relentlessly and without warning - the best kinds of twists.
The Negatives:
There were some plot holes. I can't say much without giving away spoilers but there were quite some unanswered questions at the end.
I have read Jane Isaac's One Good Lie last year and I have to say her writing is fluid and quite enjoyable. I will look forward to reading more from her.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
May 30, 2022
First things first. As I turned over the last page of this book, I felt cheated. Angry, even. How could an author write such an amazing book filled with twists and turns I didn't see coming and then rob me of the ending I felt it deserved?!
BUT WAIT.
This is exactly what I did. I gave it a few days and it worked its magic on me. Now I can stand on my soapbox and tell you that THE ENDING MOST DEFINITELY SERVES THE PLOT.
Let me tell you why.
All along, author Jane Isaac has presented the protagonist, Nicole Jameson, with opportunities for growth. Readers know how much she’s changed and what she’s learned. Isaac has relied on that as she penned her conclusion, spotlighting all the reasons she wrote the story and reminding us of the passion she infused in it. She wrote from her heart, with no gimmicks, and readers will see that this has driven the ending. Like bread dough, readers may have to wait while the ‘yeast’ does its magic. The ending becomes dramatic because Isaac has given it impactful meaning for Nicole Jameson. FOR NICOLE JAMESON. It’s poignant and subtle, even understated, yet, because of the impact on the protagonist, it’s huge.
Ok, now that I’ve got that off my chest….this was a phenomenal psychological thriller. It held my interest and fed my curiosity. It was compelling and I was driven to read this in two sittings.
Buckle up. You’re in for a great ride.
Remember, if you feel cheated after reading this book.…re-read my review.
I can’t wait to see what this talented author has in store for us next.
Can we take a minute and appreciate the amazing cover design?! Fabulous.
I was gifted this advance copy by Jane Isaac, Canelo, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
BUT WAIT.
This is exactly what I did. I gave it a few days and it worked its magic on me. Now I can stand on my soapbox and tell you that THE ENDING MOST DEFINITELY SERVES THE PLOT.
Let me tell you why.
All along, author Jane Isaac has presented the protagonist, Nicole Jameson, with opportunities for growth. Readers know how much she’s changed and what she’s learned. Isaac has relied on that as she penned her conclusion, spotlighting all the reasons she wrote the story and reminding us of the passion she infused in it. She wrote from her heart, with no gimmicks, and readers will see that this has driven the ending. Like bread dough, readers may have to wait while the ‘yeast’ does its magic. The ending becomes dramatic because Isaac has given it impactful meaning for Nicole Jameson. FOR NICOLE JAMESON. It’s poignant and subtle, even understated, yet, because of the impact on the protagonist, it’s huge.
Ok, now that I’ve got that off my chest….this was a phenomenal psychological thriller. It held my interest and fed my curiosity. It was compelling and I was driven to read this in two sittings.
Buckle up. You’re in for a great ride.
Remember, if you feel cheated after reading this book.…re-read my review.
I can’t wait to see what this talented author has in store for us next.
Can we take a minute and appreciate the amazing cover design?! Fabulous.
I was gifted this advance copy by Jane Isaac, Canelo, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
June 22, 2022
Nicole and Ania, two women whose world crashes around them when a plane crash kills both of their husbands. Ania's husband Conrad was the pilot of the company they worked for and Nicole's husband Ethan had been his only passenger on the trip. Numb with shock and trying to get her children through the grief, Nicole doesn't give much thought to Ania's suspicions that the company owners, the Harrisons, know more than they are revealing. They've been good friends and she hardly knows Ania. When she's forced to reconsider because of certain incidents in the days after the plane crash, Nicole isn't sure whom to trust.
I've read Jane Isaac's police procedurals and liked them. This is the first psychological thriller I have read by her and what I liked the most was the fast pace right from the beginning. It never lets up and the twists are interesting and kept me reading. I had some unanswered questions about certain plot points but given the genre, that's usually the case. Overall I enjoyed this quick read.
I've read Jane Isaac's police procedurals and liked them. This is the first psychological thriller I have read by her and what I liked the most was the fast pace right from the beginning. It never lets up and the twists are interesting and kept me reading. I had some unanswered questions about certain plot points but given the genre, that's usually the case. Overall I enjoyed this quick read.
December 29, 2022
This was such a different book. I really enjoyed it and loved getting to know each character. I'd definitely recommend this book for sure !
May 19, 2022
What a belter of a read. A psychological thriller and so much more. I was glued to my seat. A real rollercoaster of a read full of misdirection and a conclusion which literally blew me away. A well deserved four stars.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
May 28, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this psychological thriller and thought it took me on the journey of discovery with Nicole. It read at a fabulous pace and I really enjoyed how the story unfolded. I warmed to the main female characters and was rooting for them to discover the truth at every turn.
Totally recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a thriller with a twist at the end.
Totally recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a thriller with a twist at the end.
May 23, 2022
I really enjoyed this one and felt I was on the journey with Nicole. It kept me guessing till the epilogue: would def recommend this book!
May 19, 2022
Two families are splintered as two husbands lose their lives in a private plane crash over the channel. One the pilot and the other his passenger on their return from Paris on business. Their wives, only thrown together out of obligation, soon discover all is not as it first seemed.
Twists and turns aplenty in this thriller and even though I did make a correct assumption fairly early on, I didn’t expect it to take the path it did. The wives didn’t disappoint as they took on an unknown nemesis amidst their grief and whilst trying to keep their families held together. Thrown from one puzzling event to another they soon realise that they can only rely on each other to get to the bottom of it.
Enjoyed this one and would recommend it.
Twists and turns aplenty in this thriller and even though I did make a correct assumption fairly early on, I didn’t expect it to take the path it did. The wives didn’t disappoint as they took on an unknown nemesis amidst their grief and whilst trying to keep their families held together. Thrown from one puzzling event to another they soon realise that they can only rely on each other to get to the bottom of it.
Enjoyed this one and would recommend it.
August 4, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Nicole and Ania’s husbands both work for the Harrisons in finance. Both women are proud of their husbands for having such important jobs. The Harrisons were even loaning Conrad the money for his pilot’s training. However, one day, a shock plane crash happens, leaving Conrad dead and Ethan nowhere to be seen, shattering the world of these two women instantly. How is it that Ethan’s body has never been found? Soon after, the revelation comes out that drugs were found in Conrad’s system. Ania is certain that this simply isn’t like Conrad, surely he wouldn’t use drugs before flying? This, coupled with suspicious ongoings after the event create an incredibly mysterious situation, in which the police simply aren’t that helpful in investigating. One thing is clear: it’ll be up to the women to investigate.
This is a fantastic book! I loved every second of it. The ending was a bit confusing, but good. I thought I had it figured out and clearly didn’t! I liked that it was kind of dual pov but would’ve preferred it to be first person dual pov. Overall, this was fast paced and easy to read!
Nicole and Ania’s husbands both work for the Harrisons in finance. Both women are proud of their husbands for having such important jobs. The Harrisons were even loaning Conrad the money for his pilot’s training. However, one day, a shock plane crash happens, leaving Conrad dead and Ethan nowhere to be seen, shattering the world of these two women instantly. How is it that Ethan’s body has never been found? Soon after, the revelation comes out that drugs were found in Conrad’s system. Ania is certain that this simply isn’t like Conrad, surely he wouldn’t use drugs before flying? This, coupled with suspicious ongoings after the event create an incredibly mysterious situation, in which the police simply aren’t that helpful in investigating. One thing is clear: it’ll be up to the women to investigate.
This is a fantastic book! I loved every second of it. The ending was a bit confusing, but good. I thought I had it figured out and clearly didn’t! I liked that it was kind of dual pov but would’ve preferred it to be first person dual pov. Overall, this was fast paced and easy to read!
September 12, 2022
I usually like this author, read a few books and enjoyed the style and the characters. Unfortunately One fatal Secret was a total miss for me. Struggled to reach the 60% at which point i asked myself why i wanted to keep punishing myself.
My biggest issue was the characters, felt the itch to slap most of them a kot of the times.
Hope I'll have better luck with my next pick!
My biggest issue was the characters, felt the itch to slap most of them a kot of the times.
Hope I'll have better luck with my next pick!
June 24, 2022
This book had a unique storyline which grabbed my attention. I felt it dragged a bit in the middle and I struggled to relate to any of the character. The ending was good
October 6, 2022
Keeps you guessing, recommend the audio...
March 23, 2025
Not great…
May 9, 2022
Tense, thrilling and seamlessly plotted, as the action ramps and startling revelations come to light, I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough, holding my breath until the nail-biting denouement. A must read for psychological thriller fans!
July 5, 2022
This is the first book I have read by this author and I really enjoyed it. It turned out to be just the distraction I needed whilst awaiting and recovering from surgery. There were lots of tense moments, twists and turns and the plot kept me gripped. I liked the characters, especially Nicole, and I felt for her when she discovered her husband's secrets and the impossible decision she was forced to make. Overall a thoroughly entertaining read and I would happily pick up another of this author's books.
June 16, 2022
A financial meeting in France ends in a plane crash, a dead pilot and a missing passenger. The widow of the pilot Ania suspects foul play within the company but nobody believes her, Nicole, the passengers wife,is not sure what to believe. She has her own worries with her husband Ethan missing and a sick father.
This was a great read, full of twists and red herrings, who do you trust or believe? And why is Ethans boss always creeping about. Each chapter ends with you having to read more to find out what happens next
This was a great read, full of twists and red herrings, who do you trust or believe? And why is Ethans boss always creeping about. Each chapter ends with you having to read more to find out what happens next
June 16, 2022
This book had an intriguing premise. A company plane crashes into the sea. The pilot dies, but the other passenger's body is never recovered. Their two widows bond over their grief, but when evidence surfaces that there were drugs in the pilot's system (a claim his wife vehemently denies), the two women become suspicious and begin doing some investigating of their own. I found the book very engaging and it definitely held my attention. My only "complaint" was that, to me, it became a little bit unbelievable. I don't want to spoil anything, but I feel like more foundation should have been built up earlier, so that the story about what actually happened and why, would have been more believable. Still a good read, though! I'd give it 3.5⭐ if I could. 👍
June 16, 2022
Tense, thrilling and decidedly sinister, this was quite a rollercoaster of emotions. The pace was good and the tension really mounted, playing brilliantly on recognisable insecurities like the feeling you’re being watched or a threat to your children and your family life as you know it.
The realistic feeling portrayal of the criminal underworld and organised crime gave it an extra edge too.
When the husbands of two business associates are seemingly in a plane crash but only one of the bodies is found I really empathised and felt their pain. The contrast between bereavement but also the unknown of whether his colleague was dead or alive was brilliantly portrayed. The plot then unravels with twists, turns and plenty of secrets and lies.
Seriously brilliant writing, one not to be missed.
The realistic feeling portrayal of the criminal underworld and organised crime gave it an extra edge too.
When the husbands of two business associates are seemingly in a plane crash but only one of the bodies is found I really empathised and felt their pain. The contrast between bereavement but also the unknown of whether his colleague was dead or alive was brilliantly portrayed. The plot then unravels with twists, turns and plenty of secrets and lies.
Seriously brilliant writing, one not to be missed.
August 30, 2022
4.5*
One Fatal Secret begins with an intriguing prologue as a woman is abducted at gunpoint. Just a few minutes ago Nicole Jameson was rushing to make sure her children weren’t late for a birthday party, and now she was in a car with two gunmen, but she couldn’t afford to attract any attention…
'A month ago, she’d have screamed and hollered if a man had accosted her in the street and bundled her into a nearby vehicle. But that was before the crash. Before life changed irrevocably.'
Only a month earlier Nicole had been waiting impatiently for her husband, Ethan, to come home from work to celebrate her father’s seventieth birthday. He’d promised to be home on time and hadn’t been answering his phone or replying to messages.
Then Ethan’s boss and his wife had unexpectedly turned up at the door with devastating news that would change Nicole’s life. The company jet with Ethan and Conrad, who was the pilot, on board had gone down over the English Channel as they returned from a business trip to France. There were no survivors. Not too far away Conrad’s wife, Ania had also been hearing the news from the police.
'‘I’m so sorry, Mrs Gilbert’
Time froze. Ania sat perfectly still, her mouth agape. They just told her they’d found a body. Her husband was dead.'
The two wives had never been close friends but when certain information came to light they began to wonder…and became convinced there was more to this than meets the eye. Trying to find out whether or not they had been told the truth seemed like a good plan at the time, until they were unsettled and frightened by events affecting them both, which only served to confirm their suspicions.
One Fatal Secret is tense and twisty, well plotted, full of intrigue and with enough action to keep the pages turning. The criminal aspect was believable and I enjoyed seeing Nicole’s character develop throughout, driven by the things she learns, how they affect her and then to the ultimate the decision she has to make. A thought provoking ending.
One Fatal Secret begins with an intriguing prologue as a woman is abducted at gunpoint. Just a few minutes ago Nicole Jameson was rushing to make sure her children weren’t late for a birthday party, and now she was in a car with two gunmen, but she couldn’t afford to attract any attention…
'A month ago, she’d have screamed and hollered if a man had accosted her in the street and bundled her into a nearby vehicle. But that was before the crash. Before life changed irrevocably.'
Only a month earlier Nicole had been waiting impatiently for her husband, Ethan, to come home from work to celebrate her father’s seventieth birthday. He’d promised to be home on time and hadn’t been answering his phone or replying to messages.
Then Ethan’s boss and his wife had unexpectedly turned up at the door with devastating news that would change Nicole’s life. The company jet with Ethan and Conrad, who was the pilot, on board had gone down over the English Channel as they returned from a business trip to France. There were no survivors. Not too far away Conrad’s wife, Ania had also been hearing the news from the police.
'‘I’m so sorry, Mrs Gilbert’
Time froze. Ania sat perfectly still, her mouth agape. They just told her they’d found a body. Her husband was dead.'
The two wives had never been close friends but when certain information came to light they began to wonder…and became convinced there was more to this than meets the eye. Trying to find out whether or not they had been told the truth seemed like a good plan at the time, until they were unsettled and frightened by events affecting them both, which only served to confirm their suspicions.
One Fatal Secret is tense and twisty, well plotted, full of intrigue and with enough action to keep the pages turning. The criminal aspect was believable and I enjoyed seeing Nicole’s character develop throughout, driven by the things she learns, how they affect her and then to the ultimate the decision she has to make. A thought provoking ending.
June 14, 2022
Sometimes your enemies are closer than you think…
Nicole Jameson and her husband Ethan have it all, a happy marriage and two young children, Ethan has made a successful career in finance at Harrison Dunbar Associates and the Harrison's treat their employees like family, even going as far as loaning Conrad, the company chauffeur, money to fund his dream of becoming a pilot. Whilst returning from a business trip, the plane that Conrad is flying, with Ethan on board, crashes into the sea, only Conrad's body is recovered, Ethan is missing presumed dead. Nicole and Ania, Conrad's wife, are heartbroken but when they start to ask questions as to how it happened, they get more than they bargained for. Was it just a tragic accident or something far more sinister?
One Fatal Secret hits the ground running with an intriguing prologue, which had me hooked from the first page, the author then keeps that intrigue steadily bubbling away throughout the book with lots of twists and a few curveballs to keep the reader guessing. There are some very shady characters within these pages, not least of all the ones that Nicole was sure she could always trust, which is why she originally questions Ania's theory of foul play, but the more they delve into what happened, the more she thinks Ania may have a point. This is a well written story with short chapters, which I love and an ending of just desserts. This is the second standalone thriller by Isaac and I have to say it was an absolute belter, keep them coming Jane!
I'd like to thank Canelo and Netgalley for the approval, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
Nicole Jameson and her husband Ethan have it all, a happy marriage and two young children, Ethan has made a successful career in finance at Harrison Dunbar Associates and the Harrison's treat their employees like family, even going as far as loaning Conrad, the company chauffeur, money to fund his dream of becoming a pilot. Whilst returning from a business trip, the plane that Conrad is flying, with Ethan on board, crashes into the sea, only Conrad's body is recovered, Ethan is missing presumed dead. Nicole and Ania, Conrad's wife, are heartbroken but when they start to ask questions as to how it happened, they get more than they bargained for. Was it just a tragic accident or something far more sinister?
One Fatal Secret hits the ground running with an intriguing prologue, which had me hooked from the first page, the author then keeps that intrigue steadily bubbling away throughout the book with lots of twists and a few curveballs to keep the reader guessing. There are some very shady characters within these pages, not least of all the ones that Nicole was sure she could always trust, which is why she originally questions Ania's theory of foul play, but the more they delve into what happened, the more she thinks Ania may have a point. This is a well written story with short chapters, which I love and an ending of just desserts. This is the second standalone thriller by Isaac and I have to say it was an absolute belter, keep them coming Jane!
I'd like to thank Canelo and Netgalley for the approval, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
June 29, 2022
Sometimes your enemies are closer than you think... Nicole Jameson has always been proud of her husband, Ethan. He’s built a successful career in finance, and his employers, the Harrisons, treat them like family. They’re a firm who look after their own, and even gave a loan to the company chauffeur, Conrad, to fund his pilot licence. When the two men are returning from a business trip, the worst possible thing happens – their plane crashes into the sea. No survivors are expected to be found. Nicole is heartbroken, much like Conrad’s wife, Ania. She never warmed to Nicole, but now they share a bond of grief. When evidence is found that Conrad took drugs shortly before the plane departed with him at the controls, the two women begin to wonder if all is not what it seems. But when they ask questions about events leading up to the crash, unsettling occurrences suggest it wasn’t a good idea. Sinister-looking men follow them, the Harrisons are increasingly cagey, and the women wonder if there is not more to this than a tragic accident. But are the most dangerous people the ones they have already allowed to get too close...?
This is another brilliant read from this author.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I was provided an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. This is my own honest voluntary review.
This is another brilliant read from this author.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I was provided an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. This is my own honest voluntary review.
April 9, 2024
Was this a good book ? I'm not sure. It went off on a tangent halfway through when I was really enjoying it. The storyline was actually quite good . Nicole, the usual main idiot in these type of novels was just that. Anya the same old same old sidekick character. Add a couple of adorable kids, a conspiracy/dead husband, nice house, suspicious friends and absolutely no idea how the mortgage & food bills being paid on the BIG BIG house with multiple rooms - and you're onto a winner twisty novel. (Makes us glad to be Povvos?)
-
And then.....It just went awol, I was struggling to keep up and keep awake.
Blame the Ruskies? (Sorry if that sounds disrespectful , far from it, not intended) This book just....lost it for me.
Expertly Narrated by Georgia Maguire which is why I finished listening to it- she's one of my favourite Narrators. The Russian & Polish accents, well done - She's only interpreting the given script as an expert actress.
No I didnt like the obvious racism and stereotypical characterisations of the Eastern European/Russian - lt made me feel uncomfortable after such a great start by the Author.
Dont piss them off and that's what I felt this novel was aiming to do.
I need to listen to this again in a couple of years which I will do - I might feel differently.
However I want to read other novels from this author as I liked the writing style, so - upped stars to 3 🌟
-
And then.....It just went awol, I was struggling to keep up and keep awake.
Blame the Ruskies? (Sorry if that sounds disrespectful , far from it, not intended) This book just....lost it for me.
Expertly Narrated by Georgia Maguire which is why I finished listening to it- she's one of my favourite Narrators. The Russian & Polish accents, well done - She's only interpreting the given script as an expert actress.
No I didnt like the obvious racism and stereotypical characterisations of the Eastern European/Russian - lt made me feel uncomfortable after such a great start by the Author.
Dont piss them off and that's what I felt this novel was aiming to do.
I need to listen to this again in a couple of years which I will do - I might feel differently.
However I want to read other novels from this author as I liked the writing style, so - upped stars to 3 🌟
June 30, 2022
❝𝚂𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎𝚜 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚎𝚗𝚎𝚖𝚒𝚎𝚜 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚌𝚕𝚘𝚜𝚎𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚗 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚔...
ʙʟᴜʀʙ
Nicole Jameson has always been proud of her husband, Ethan. He’s built a successful career in finance, and his employers, the Harrisons, treat them like family. They’re a firm who look after their own, and even gave a loan to the company chauffeur, Conrad, to fund his pilot licence.
When the two men are returning from a business trip, the worst possible thing happens – their plane crashes into the sea. No survivors are expected to be found. Nicole is heartbroken, much like Conrad’s wife, Ania. She never warmed to Nicole, but now they share a bond of grief.
When evidence is found that Conrad took drugs shortly before the plane departed with him at the controls, the two women begin to wonder if all is not what it seems. But when they ask questions about events leading up to the crash, unsettling occurrences suggest it wasn’t a good idea. Sinister-looking men follow them, the Harrisons are increasingly cagey, and the women wonder if there is not more to this than a tragic accident.
But are the most dangerous people the ones they have already allowed to get too close…?
ᴍʏ ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛs 💭
This stand-alone thriller was a very pleasant surprise to me. I hadn’t read anything of this author before, but I am glad to got the chance in this blog tour.
I started this book and I barely could put it away. The personalities of the main characters Nicole and Ania are so well written, that I really empathized with them. Especially with Nicole who had to process a lot.
The story has a strong storyline with an original plot. The ‘thriller spark’ could have been a bit more for me, but I enjoyed it very much.
I rated One Fatal Secret with four bright stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
May 28, 2022
𝕆𝕟𝕖 𝔽𝕒𝕥𝕒𝕝 𝕊𝕖𝕔𝕣𝕖𝕥
𝔹𝕪 𝕁𝕒𝕟𝕖 𝕀𝕤𝕒𝕒𝕔
ℝ𝔼𝕍𝕀𝔼𝕎
The first half maybe even three quarters of the book I couldn't get enough! I couldn't stop reading. Each chapter ended with another unanswered question and I loved that! Also, the chapters were short so bonus points for that. The ascent of the story was great! It was very fast paced & action packed.
Now on to the ending. It was anticlimactic. It fell FLAT! The resolution to the story was in about 3 sentences. If you skim read you'll miss it. I wish there was at least a full chapter of detail about the climax of the plot line. Then you get your rushed "happy ending".
There were two main characters Ania and Nicole. I liked them both. I could relate more to Ania and Nicole kind of irked me but she was portrayed well and realistic in her character. Gosh I hope that makes sense.
I'd recommend this book and mark it is as a BORROW on the scale of Buy, Bargain, Borrow, Bud (audio) or Bust.
ℝ𝕖𝕒𝕕 𝕋𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝔹𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕀𝕗:
🛬 You like each chapter to end with more questions than answers
🛬 You like fast paced thrillers
🛬 You like it when the bad guy gets what he deserves
Thank you to @netgalley, the author Jane Isaac and the publisher Canela for an advanced ebook copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.
𝔹𝕪 𝕁𝕒𝕟𝕖 𝕀𝕤𝕒𝕒𝕔
ℝ𝔼𝕍𝕀𝔼𝕎
The first half maybe even three quarters of the book I couldn't get enough! I couldn't stop reading. Each chapter ended with another unanswered question and I loved that! Also, the chapters were short so bonus points for that. The ascent of the story was great! It was very fast paced & action packed.
Now on to the ending. It was anticlimactic. It fell FLAT! The resolution to the story was in about 3 sentences. If you skim read you'll miss it. I wish there was at least a full chapter of detail about the climax of the plot line. Then you get your rushed "happy ending".
There were two main characters Ania and Nicole. I liked them both. I could relate more to Ania and Nicole kind of irked me but she was portrayed well and realistic in her character. Gosh I hope that makes sense.
I'd recommend this book and mark it is as a BORROW on the scale of Buy, Bargain, Borrow, Bud (audio) or Bust.
ℝ𝕖𝕒𝕕 𝕋𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝔹𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕀𝕗:
🛬 You like each chapter to end with more questions than answers
🛬 You like fast paced thrillers
🛬 You like it when the bad guy gets what he deserves
Thank you to @netgalley, the author Jane Isaac and the publisher Canela for an advanced ebook copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.
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