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We Both Have Secrets
What I’m about to say is going to blow our lives apart. I’ve tried so hard to keep it from you, not wanting to cause you pain. But I can’t hide it any longer. You deserve the truth. But I don’t know if there’s any coming back from this. And I’m terrified you won’t ever forgive me…
There’s nothing as strong as a mother’s love. As I watch my youngest daughter stride into her new life as a student, a sob catches in my throat. It feels like only yesterday that my two precious girls were playing together without a care in the world. I sacrificed so much to give them the life they deserved and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
Looking at my husband Robert, tears in his eyes, I realise just how far we’ve come. Our daughters have flown the nest and now it’s time to re-kindle our own flame. So, when our long-lost friend Lucy invites us to her Spanish villa, I jump at the chance.
But when we arrive, instead of it being a romantic break, Robert begins to pull away from me. His conversation is muted, he goes for long walks on the beach alone and then I find a crumpled note on the bedside table and Robert has vanished.
In that moment, my entire world shatters. My husband has been keeping a devastating secret from me. But in order to find out just how much it will destroy our family, I will have to reveal something that I too have kept hidden. And once my own secret is out, will my family ever forgive me for what I did?
A totally unputdownable and heart-wrenching read about family secrets and how far we will go to protect those we love the most. Perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Liane Moriarty and Diane Chamberlain.
What readers are saying about Emma
‘Have the tissues ready for this!… Really tore at my emotions and shredded them to pieces… Tears in my eyes… When I wasn't reading, I was constantly thinking about it… Heart-wrenching.’ leannebookstagram, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Oooph. Hits you right in the feels… Loved this book so much. Couldn’t put it down.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A heart-wrenching, emotional and teary book… Written with so much emotion that I laughed and cried. The story grabbed my full attention from the first chapter and I couldn’t put it down.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Heart-wrenching… This author has a knack of pulling at your heart strings and breaking your heart into a million pieces… Heartbreaking… I couldn’t put this one down… Really hit[s] you in the heart and give[s] you all the feels.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Heartbreaking… Heart-wrenching… Couldn’t put it down… Tugged at my heartstrings… Exceptional.’ Robin Loves Reading, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
There’s nothing as strong as a mother’s love. As I watch my youngest daughter stride into her new life as a student, a sob catches in my throat. It feels like only yesterday that my two precious girls were playing together without a care in the world. I sacrificed so much to give them the life they deserved and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
Looking at my husband Robert, tears in his eyes, I realise just how far we’ve come. Our daughters have flown the nest and now it’s time to re-kindle our own flame. So, when our long-lost friend Lucy invites us to her Spanish villa, I jump at the chance.
But when we arrive, instead of it being a romantic break, Robert begins to pull away from me. His conversation is muted, he goes for long walks on the beach alone and then I find a crumpled note on the bedside table and Robert has vanished.
In that moment, my entire world shatters. My husband has been keeping a devastating secret from me. But in order to find out just how much it will destroy our family, I will have to reveal something that I too have kept hidden. And once my own secret is out, will my family ever forgive me for what I did?
A totally unputdownable and heart-wrenching read about family secrets and how far we will go to protect those we love the most. Perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Liane Moriarty and Diane Chamberlain.
What readers are saying about Emma
‘Have the tissues ready for this!… Really tore at my emotions and shredded them to pieces… Tears in my eyes… When I wasn't reading, I was constantly thinking about it… Heart-wrenching.’ leannebookstagram, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Oooph. Hits you right in the feels… Loved this book so much. Couldn’t put it down.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A heart-wrenching, emotional and teary book… Written with so much emotion that I laughed and cried. The story grabbed my full attention from the first chapter and I couldn’t put it down.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Heart-wrenching… This author has a knack of pulling at your heart strings and breaking your heart into a million pieces… Heartbreaking… I couldn’t put this one down… Really hit[s] you in the heart and give[s] you all the feels.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Heartbreaking… Heart-wrenching… Couldn’t put it down… Tugged at my heartstrings… Exceptional.’ Robin Loves Reading, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
274 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 18, 2025
3966 people are currently reading
643 people want to read
About the author
Emma Robinson
25 books267 followersEmma Robinson is a USA Today Bestseller with a passion for stories which explore the power of family and friendship in the most challenging circumstances. Whilst her early novels are humorous; her recent work focuses on emotional themes and these novels are both heart-breaking and life affirming.
Emma currently lives in Essex, England with a husband, two children and a small black dog.
Emma currently lives in Essex, England with a husband, two children and a small black dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
July 25, 2025
I enjoyed this book. College secrets carried over into adult life. Good message about college drinking and the spiking of female drinks.
June 9, 2025
I often mention, in my reviews, how important secrets are to a story. Well! This book is very open about the subject of SECRETS by including the fact(s) in the title. I couldn't wait to get into it.
The main characters are Ellen and her husband, Richard. They have recently become empty nesters. Right from the beginning, there is a subtle overtone of unease. Ellen is somewhat neurotic and paranoid of everything. Richard is aloof and seemingly detached from the relationship. Trouble!
So, all the trouble (each secret)comes to a head, one at a time. The secrets weren't exactly what I was expecting, but they kept me turning the pages. Conversely, some events were predictable. But, it all kept me engaged, waiting to see how everything resolved itself.
The ending is satisfying. This book is entertaining, easy to read. Some of the drama is a little over the top, reminiscent of a soap opera.
My rating is 3.5 stars, rounding it up to a four.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
The main characters are Ellen and her husband, Richard. They have recently become empty nesters. Right from the beginning, there is a subtle overtone of unease. Ellen is somewhat neurotic and paranoid of everything. Richard is aloof and seemingly detached from the relationship. Trouble!
So, all the trouble (each secret)comes to a head, one at a time. The secrets weren't exactly what I was expecting, but they kept me turning the pages. Conversely, some events were predictable. But, it all kept me engaged, waiting to see how everything resolved itself.
The ending is satisfying. This book is entertaining, easy to read. Some of the drama is a little over the top, reminiscent of a soap opera.
My rating is 3.5 stars, rounding it up to a four.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
July 20, 2025
Big thanks to Bookouture for a copy on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
We Both Have Secrets is a touching, moving and engaging read with a surprise or two.
Emma Robinson is a new author for me and I will definitely read more from her.
Ellen and Robert are off to Malaga for a three day holiday.
Staying with a college friend Lucy and her husband Joe, even though they haven’t seen them in decades.
Their two daughters Abigail and Grace are having their own issues and love melodrama.
But Robert is reluctant to go and his attitude is distant and cold.
Ellen begins to worry when a note from Robert is found.
He is hiding a secret but what he doesn’t know is so is Ellen……
I’m usually one for the great selection of psychological thrillers from Bookouture but this time I went with a women’s fiction title and a new author.
I really enjoyed this book.
A emotional family saga with secrets and soul.
I read in one sitting and very much liked the story.
We Both Have Secrets is a touching, moving and engaging read with a surprise or two.
Emma Robinson is a new author for me and I will definitely read more from her.
Ellen and Robert are off to Malaga for a three day holiday.
Staying with a college friend Lucy and her husband Joe, even though they haven’t seen them in decades.
Their two daughters Abigail and Grace are having their own issues and love melodrama.
But Robert is reluctant to go and his attitude is distant and cold.
Ellen begins to worry when a note from Robert is found.
He is hiding a secret but what he doesn’t know is so is Ellen……
I’m usually one for the great selection of psychological thrillers from Bookouture but this time I went with a women’s fiction title and a new author.
I really enjoyed this book.
A emotional family saga with secrets and soul.
I read in one sitting and very much liked the story.
May 17, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley.co.uk and Bookouture for the chance to review this book.
Secrets carried throughout their lives. Family and lost friends are reunited in this story about consequences and the effects of long-held misunderstandings.
Ellen and Lucy are the main protagonists, hiding the truth in plain sight. Robert, unwittingly, is the anchor that holds friendships and family together.
All through this story, I found myself wishing it would turn out OK. (No Spoilers!)
It isn't a gripping or exciting read, but once invested, it is hard not to finish and find out the ending.
The characters are pleasant enough to make them likeable, and the story rubs along nicely.
It's an enjoyable, easy read suitable for escaping the daily grind. I read this whilst on holiday, with lots of time to waste.
Secrets carried throughout their lives. Family and lost friends are reunited in this story about consequences and the effects of long-held misunderstandings.
Ellen and Lucy are the main protagonists, hiding the truth in plain sight. Robert, unwittingly, is the anchor that holds friendships and family together.
All through this story, I found myself wishing it would turn out OK. (No Spoilers!)
It isn't a gripping or exciting read, but once invested, it is hard not to finish and find out the ending.
The characters are pleasant enough to make them likeable, and the story rubs along nicely.
It's an enjoyable, easy read suitable for escaping the daily grind. I read this whilst on holiday, with lots of time to waste.
August 2, 2025
3.5 Stars for an Emotional Read with Layers
I almost stopped reading. The book felt like it was written as two stories. In the first act, Ellen is insecure in her marriage, suspicious of her husband. I felt no depth. The second act, however, had more depth and it felt as though the characters were developed a bit more so I actually started to care. Without giving away anything, I’ll just say the story was intriguing enough, but the lack of depth had me feeling as though I could put it down and stop reading. I should preface this by saying I feel like I’ve been in a reading slump lately so maybe it’s just me!
I almost stopped reading. The book felt like it was written as two stories. In the first act, Ellen is insecure in her marriage, suspicious of her husband. I felt no depth. The second act, however, had more depth and it felt as though the characters were developed a bit more so I actually started to care. Without giving away anything, I’ll just say the story was intriguing enough, but the lack of depth had me feeling as though I could put it down and stop reading. I should preface this by saying I feel like I’ve been in a reading slump lately so maybe it’s just me!
May 11, 2025
The book starts off fantastically, namely with a confession. The only question is: who wants to confess something, and what is the secret this person is carrying?
This is the kind of beginning that immediately makes you sit up straight. A confession is often synonymous with pain, both for yourself and for the person to whom you're finally going to be honest.
When you feel something is going on with your partner, you start reading into everything and imagining all sorts of worst-case scenarios. You assume the worst and suspect them of all kinds of things. And precisely because you're only seeing what you want to see, you end up drawing the wrong conclusions.
The couple does indeed have secrets from each other, but I find they have a different “weight.” Personally, I think Ellen kept something hidden out of shame and selfishness, and multiple people were involved and hurt by it, whereas Robert kept his secret more to protect his loved ones. Ellen also seems to be better at keeping secrets, while with Robert you can tell something is going on by his behavior.
Just like Ellen, I was completely wrong :) and I was also shocked when Robert revealed what he had been going through.
I thought it was a very beautiful and emotional story, and it shows again that sometimes something serious needs to happen to bring people (back) together or closer.
I was glued to the book because it was so gripping, and it really moved me.
At the end, karma came into play for a moment, and I couldn’t think anything else but: “Go, girls!” ;)
Great story and definitely 5 stars
Thank you
This is the kind of beginning that immediately makes you sit up straight. A confession is often synonymous with pain, both for yourself and for the person to whom you're finally going to be honest.
When you feel something is going on with your partner, you start reading into everything and imagining all sorts of worst-case scenarios. You assume the worst and suspect them of all kinds of things. And precisely because you're only seeing what you want to see, you end up drawing the wrong conclusions.
The couple does indeed have secrets from each other, but I find they have a different “weight.” Personally, I think Ellen kept something hidden out of shame and selfishness, and multiple people were involved and hurt by it, whereas Robert kept his secret more to protect his loved ones. Ellen also seems to be better at keeping secrets, while with Robert you can tell something is going on by his behavior.
Just like Ellen, I was completely wrong :) and I was also shocked when Robert revealed what he had been going through.
I thought it was a very beautiful and emotional story, and it shows again that sometimes something serious needs to happen to bring people (back) together or closer.
I was glued to the book because it was so gripping, and it really moved me.
At the end, karma came into play for a moment, and I couldn’t think anything else but: “Go, girls!” ;)
Great story and definitely 5 stars
Thank you
August 5, 2025
Ellen and Robert have been together since meeting in freshers week at university. Ellen found herself pregnant shortly before graduation and Robert stood by her and married shortly after they now have two girls who are both grown up their youngest Emily is just about to head off to university. Grace is finding this a difficult time empty nest syndrome feeling often felt by mum’s when their children move out.
Her and Robert have had a happy marriage, but she’s often wondered whether he would still married her. Had she not been pregnant? She’s now beginning to doubt the life they’ve built together. She feels like he’s pulling away and she wants to rekindle their marriage
As they drop their youngest daughter off at university, they are met by the daughter of their old friend Lucy.
Lucy and Ellen were best friends. They went around together as a group with Robert and a few other students. However, they drifted apart when Ellen became pregnant and motherhood and young family life got in the way.
After speaking to Lucy for the first time in many years, Lucy invites them to her holiday home in Spain to spend some time getting to know each other again. Ellen is keen to go but Robert was very reluctant on the plane there Alan begins to wonder what is bothering Robert Does he still love her?
Shortly after arriving, at Lucy‘s Villa Ellen begins to suspect something more is going on Robert and Lucy spend time together and she feels excluded. Are they having an affair?
Lucy’s eldest daughter who is only a year younger than Robert and Ellen’s daughter turns up unexpectedly at the villa and Robert is shocked to see her. This throws Elleninto even more doubt. How does Robert know Charlotte? Where have they met before she suddenly sees them spending time together and feels once again excluded? What secrets are they keeping from her? Is Robert having an affair with Lucy or with Charlotte?
We follow Ellen Robert Lucy and their girls as Ellen discovers exactly what Robert has been hiding. As they navigate the future will their family survive what other secrets are still being kept and will be secrets break their family apart?
I really enjoyed reading this story and getting to know the characters at times. I felt frustrated with Ellen but I could understand her actions and reactions. I enjoyed how the story evolved and how the secrets were revealed.
Emma has done a fantastic job writing her characters and bringing them to life for us readers
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this title
Her and Robert have had a happy marriage, but she’s often wondered whether he would still married her. Had she not been pregnant? She’s now beginning to doubt the life they’ve built together. She feels like he’s pulling away and she wants to rekindle their marriage
As they drop their youngest daughter off at university, they are met by the daughter of their old friend Lucy.
Lucy and Ellen were best friends. They went around together as a group with Robert and a few other students. However, they drifted apart when Ellen became pregnant and motherhood and young family life got in the way.
After speaking to Lucy for the first time in many years, Lucy invites them to her holiday home in Spain to spend some time getting to know each other again. Ellen is keen to go but Robert was very reluctant on the plane there Alan begins to wonder what is bothering Robert Does he still love her?
Shortly after arriving, at Lucy‘s Villa Ellen begins to suspect something more is going on Robert and Lucy spend time together and she feels excluded. Are they having an affair?
Lucy’s eldest daughter who is only a year younger than Robert and Ellen’s daughter turns up unexpectedly at the villa and Robert is shocked to see her. This throws Elleninto even more doubt. How does Robert know Charlotte? Where have they met before she suddenly sees them spending time together and feels once again excluded? What secrets are they keeping from her? Is Robert having an affair with Lucy or with Charlotte?
We follow Ellen Robert Lucy and their girls as Ellen discovers exactly what Robert has been hiding. As they navigate the future will their family survive what other secrets are still being kept and will be secrets break their family apart?
I really enjoyed reading this story and getting to know the characters at times. I felt frustrated with Ellen but I could understand her actions and reactions. I enjoyed how the story evolved and how the secrets were revealed.
Emma has done a fantastic job writing her characters and bringing them to life for us readers
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this title
June 1, 2025
This is an emotional rollercoaster for all the characters and will keep the reader guessing.
When Ellen and Robert wave goodbye to their second daughter at university, it’s time for them to enjoy some time alone. After reconnecting with old friend Lucy, the pair fly off on holiday to unwind. But is everything as it seems? Robert doesn’t seem to want to spend quality time with Ellen and everyone is behaving suspiciously. Just what secrets are being kept??
With lots of twists and turns you will think you have it all sorted, but as ever, this author throws in some curveballs! I definitely didn’t see the one twist coming but may have figured out some things.
I really liked how everything weaved together, how you get to know all the characters, how you may make a judgment about them, but you find that changes as you read on.
It’s lovely and descriptive as I’ve come to expect from this author, you can easily visualise all the characters and where they are.
I’ll be honest, I didn’t need as many tissues this time as previous books and didn’t feel quite as emotional at the end, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing!
All in all a fast paced, quick read that will have you reading into the night, just finishing that one more chapter…….!
September 16, 2025
Ahhhh, this started off as an interesting read and seems to have a lot of suspense and drama initially with all the secrets that was assumed then FMC and her husband would have, but as the secrets were revealed it was kind of underwhelming to me. I was expecting a lot more drama and secrets and lies. They didn’t land the way was hoping they would. Also, I am not sure why they made the FMC seem so out of touch with technology. She’s not even that old and just because she became a mother so young, and now has daughters in their 20s, does not mean she has to seem so out of touch with using a phone etc. haha. I just found that kind of odd. I felt like they made her really in her head with all of the secrets she assumed and also kept. Overall, it was interesting, but it was hard to get attached to the characters as it lacked some depth. By the time you did get more insight, the story was over. Overall, this could be a quick read, but not anything too deep or twisty.
June 19, 2025
3.5 stars
Once I began reading I did not put this down until it was done. I definitely wanted there to be a happy ending for the characters.
The "secret" was a bit underwhelming for me which impacted my rating. So even though I enjoyed the story the buildup did not match the twist. And parts felt a bit contrived. However, overall the story was sweet and cute. The dialogue was very authentic and I found myself chuckling in parts because it felt very realistic.
This was my first book written by this author but I will definitely read more of her work.
Once I began reading I did not put this down until it was done. I definitely wanted there to be a happy ending for the characters.
The "secret" was a bit underwhelming for me which impacted my rating. So even though I enjoyed the story the buildup did not match the twist. And parts felt a bit contrived. However, overall the story was sweet and cute. The dialogue was very authentic and I found myself chuckling in parts because it felt very realistic.
This was my first book written by this author but I will definitely read more of her work.
July 27, 2025
4.5♥️
August 1, 2025
This was a good read, and not what you would think!
June 15, 2025
Ellen and Robert have been together since university days, twenty five years later they have two daughters, Grace and Abigail who have both flown the nest with Abigail recently going to university and Ellen and Robert now have the time to rekindle their own dreams of travelling, so when old uni friend Lucy invites them to her villa in Malaga for a long weekend with her husband Joe, they decide to take her up on it, even though they lost touch in their final year, but Ellen thinks it will be a chance to spend some time with Robert who has been a bit distant recently. Sadly, it's not the romantic getaway she hoped for as he distances himself even more over the coming days and, when she discovers a note from him she believes the worst, but he's not the only one with a secret and hers could potentially blow their world apart.
We Both Have Secrets is the the latest domestic drama by Robinson, set between Malaga in Spain and the UK and told across multiple timelines throughout. This is a fast paced rollercoaster read which, in true Robinson style, deals with some very complex subjects sympathetically and with dignity. Both Ellen and Robert are hiding major secrets which could change their lives, for different reasons, once they are finally revealed, and it was clear that they were both trying to protect their family by keeping quiet. This author has created a story with realistic, relatable characters which will tug at your heartstrings, leaving me in tears time and again, its a tale of friendships and deep rooted love that had me gripped throughout and Robinson, one of my go to authors, has smashed it out of the park AGAIN!
I'd like to thank Bookouture and Netgalley for the auto approval. I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
We Both Have Secrets is the the latest domestic drama by Robinson, set between Malaga in Spain and the UK and told across multiple timelines throughout. This is a fast paced rollercoaster read which, in true Robinson style, deals with some very complex subjects sympathetically and with dignity. Both Ellen and Robert are hiding major secrets which could change their lives, for different reasons, once they are finally revealed, and it was clear that they were both trying to protect their family by keeping quiet. This author has created a story with realistic, relatable characters which will tug at your heartstrings, leaving me in tears time and again, its a tale of friendships and deep rooted love that had me gripped throughout and Robinson, one of my go to authors, has smashed it out of the park AGAIN!
I'd like to thank Bookouture and Netgalley for the auto approval. I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
June 24, 2025
I loved this book, when I read the part where the actual secret comes out I was quite surprised as to what it was, let’s put it this way it wasn’t what I had in mind, I really enjoyed this book, started reading it on Friday and has finished it on Tuesday one of those books you don’t want to end.
June 20, 2025
I was swept up in this unputdownable read about family secrets. I had suspicions as I flipped through the pages. Surprises greeted me in ways I didn’t imagine. This work of #womensfiction is a great book with secrets that will have you engaged throughout.
June 18, 2025
I’ve been in a reading slump for quite a while and just not been able to focus on reading for very long, but boy oh boy…..this book certainly brought me back out of my slump as it only took me 2 days to read!
I love Emma Robinson’s books and yet again, Emma has written a fabulous book with such relatable, likeable and believable characters!
Thoroughly enjoyed this story and I have loved, finally….not being able to put a book down again!
I love Emma Robinson’s books and yet again, Emma has written a fabulous book with such relatable, likeable and believable characters!
Thoroughly enjoyed this story and I have loved, finally….not being able to put a book down again!
May 14, 2025
In this novel we meet Ellen and Robert, a couple of empty nesters whose youngest daughter has left to go to university. They have the time and money now to have the adventures they didn't have when they were younger but Ellen feels Robert is keeping something from her and when she finds a note from him her suspicions go into overdrive. But she can hardly complain because she also has kept a secret from Robert one that could completely ruin their marriage.
Emma Robinson has written yet another fabulous book. She takes every day real life dilemmas and creates relatable characters to deal with the outcomes.
It's a heartwarming read with love and friendship throughout the pages.
Emma Robinson has written yet another fabulous book. She takes every day real life dilemmas and creates relatable characters to deal with the outcomes.
It's a heartwarming read with love and friendship throughout the pages.
May 13, 2025
One marriage. Two lies. But which one will tear us apart.
Full of family secret's.
Ellen and Richard and both their daughters Grace and Abigail have flew the nest, now it's time to re- kindle their own flame.
A week off work they get invited out from Lucy to her villa in Malaga for three nights it's been a long time since Lucy and Ellen have seen each other going way back to their teen years.
Something is not right how does Lucy know so much about her husband?
This page turner is a story of kept secrets as you read become a shock into the story.
I loved it.
Full of family secret's.
Ellen and Richard and both their daughters Grace and Abigail have flew the nest, now it's time to re- kindle their own flame.
A week off work they get invited out from Lucy to her villa in Malaga for three nights it's been a long time since Lucy and Ellen have seen each other going way back to their teen years.
Something is not right how does Lucy know so much about her husband?
This page turner is a story of kept secrets as you read become a shock into the story.
I loved it.
May 17, 2025
Such an emotional story about the damage secrets can cause even in the most secure and happiest of relationships and Emma Robinson always writes the type of book that makes the reader cry one minute and then smile, this is why I enjoy her books.. This is another 5 star read
July 16, 2025
This was difficult to review. Because I liked the storyline but it wasn't very well written. It almost feels like you're reading a teenagers diary that's hiding all these secrets. I also didn't really like any of the characters either which is a pretty big deal in a book.
Let's start with Robert: It's unclear on whether he loves his wife or not. Heck, it's not all that clear during the memories of their college days. The only glimpse of Robert we really get is the side where he's pushing his wife away and burying himself into his work. I was 100% backing Ellen up because this man was acting shady as f*ck. Then, they have this beautiful opportunity to visit Spain and he's completely disinterested?! THEN, the way he's all buddy buddy with Lucy and giggling and whispering with her behind Ellen's back. I mean, what is a wife supposed to think because I was absolutely thinking the SAME thing as her. It's just wild to me how you can claim to love someone so much and hide something so serious from them.
We'll go to Ellen next: Though I was siding with her and felt bad for her this woman is an absolute push over. because there's NO way I will let a man brush my feelings aside the way Robert kept doing all the while acting shady. She also never once confronted Lucy who was ALL over Robert. Practically drooling. Also, Ellen must also be very blind because it was very obvious Lucy wanted Robert when they were teenagers. Let's not forget though how Ellen kept the secret that Robert's daughter very well might not be his.
Now Lucy: I'll say it. She's a b*tch and a sh*t friend. She was so jealous of Ellen as teenagers that she allowed her "friend" to get raped. But also sleeps with that very man. Then, YEARS down the road, she is still very obviously pining over Robert and flirting with him right in front of Ellen. Yes, they became "close" due to Robert seeking out her daughter for his heart condition (which was all so shady) but it was TOO close.
Lastly, Joe: He was the most normal of them all. I almost felt bad for him for being in the middle of all this if the man acted like he cared more. Cared more about his work than his family.
Let's start with Robert: It's unclear on whether he loves his wife or not. Heck, it's not all that clear during the memories of their college days. The only glimpse of Robert we really get is the side where he's pushing his wife away and burying himself into his work. I was 100% backing Ellen up because this man was acting shady as f*ck. Then, they have this beautiful opportunity to visit Spain and he's completely disinterested?! THEN, the way he's all buddy buddy with Lucy and giggling and whispering with her behind Ellen's back. I mean, what is a wife supposed to think because I was absolutely thinking the SAME thing as her. It's just wild to me how you can claim to love someone so much and hide something so serious from them.
We'll go to Ellen next: Though I was siding with her and felt bad for her this woman is an absolute push over. because there's NO way I will let a man brush my feelings aside the way Robert kept doing all the while acting shady. She also never once confronted Lucy who was ALL over Robert. Practically drooling. Also, Ellen must also be very blind because it was very obvious Lucy wanted Robert when they were teenagers. Let's not forget though how Ellen kept the secret that Robert's daughter very well might not be his.
Now Lucy: I'll say it. She's a b*tch and a sh*t friend. She was so jealous of Ellen as teenagers that she allowed her "friend" to get raped. But also sleeps with that very man. Then, YEARS down the road, she is still very obviously pining over Robert and flirting with him right in front of Ellen. Yes, they became "close" due to Robert seeking out her daughter for his heart condition (which was all so shady) but it was TOO close.
Lastly, Joe: He was the most normal of them all. I almost felt bad for him for being in the middle of all this if the man acted like he cared more. Cared more about his work than his family.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2025
First, I want to thank Emma Robinson, Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with this book so I may bring you this review.
Buckle up Emma Robinson Fan’s as the goddess of tearjerkers is back to take you on another emotional rollercoaster ride! We Both Have Secrets had me reaching for the tissues as the tears escaped my eyes for this one. If you like emotionally driven books with a lot of family drama, a little bit of mystery, and a lot of heart then this book is for you.
Emma wants to dedicate this book to Nina and thanks her for her unwavering support.
The graphics department did a beautiful job for the cover of We Both Have Secrets!
Emma had my heart in my chest and scrambling for the tissues in the very first line of the prologue! I swear she knows what to say to trigger me to set off the waterworks! Then again that is one reason I love her books. She writes important stories that need to be written with a lot of heart and soul that will touch your heart in more ways than one. This is just one of the many that hit me harder than normal.
Robert was keeping many painful deep secrets from his wife and children that would leave them heartbroken if they found out. Many of the aspects of the story were especially painful for me to read. I usually devour her books in one sitting but this one I had to read over a few days. A few things in the book hit closer to home this time around.
Buckle up Emma Robinson Fan’s as the goddess of tearjerkers is back to take you on another emotional rollercoaster ride! We Both Have Secrets had me reaching for the tissues as the tears escaped my eyes for this one. If you like emotionally driven books with a lot of family drama, a little bit of mystery, and a lot of heart then this book is for you.
Emma wants to dedicate this book to Nina and thanks her for her unwavering support.
The graphics department did a beautiful job for the cover of We Both Have Secrets!
Emma had my heart in my chest and scrambling for the tissues in the very first line of the prologue! I swear she knows what to say to trigger me to set off the waterworks! Then again that is one reason I love her books. She writes important stories that need to be written with a lot of heart and soul that will touch your heart in more ways than one. This is just one of the many that hit me harder than normal.
Robert was keeping many painful deep secrets from his wife and children that would leave them heartbroken if they found out. Many of the aspects of the story were especially painful for me to read. I usually devour her books in one sitting but this one I had to read over a few days. A few things in the book hit closer to home this time around.
August 30, 2025
Ellen and Robert's younger daughter has just started college. As much as she misses her children, Ellen is looking forward to spending more quality time with Robert. When, Lucy, her estranged best friend from college, invites them to her home in Spain, Ellen feels it's the best opportunity to reconnect with her husband as well as an old friend. Lucy is just as glamorous as ever, and it seems Robert has noticed too. Ellen suspects that Robert and Lucy are closer than she thought, they are obviously hiding something. Ellen has her own secret that she's been hiding.
This story definitely didn't go the way I was expecting and I was definitely surprised by the secret Robert and Lucy were hiding. The story, at times, alternates to the past, so we get an idea of the friendships during college. There were a few more surprises throughout the story, including a serious topic. I felt that topic wasn't done enough justice in the story, especially considering how serious it is. I did like how all the characters were portrayed, although I didn't feel attached to any of them. There was also one part towards the end that felt like a movie scene and was a bit over dramatic. This was definitely more of an emotional drama than thriller, but I still enjoyed the book overall.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
This story definitely didn't go the way I was expecting and I was definitely surprised by the secret Robert and Lucy were hiding. The story, at times, alternates to the past, so we get an idea of the friendships during college. There were a few more surprises throughout the story, including a serious topic. I felt that topic wasn't done enough justice in the story, especially considering how serious it is. I did like how all the characters were portrayed, although I didn't feel attached to any of them. There was also one part towards the end that felt like a movie scene and was a bit over dramatic. This was definitely more of an emotional drama than thriller, but I still enjoyed the book overall.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
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June 22, 2025What a great standalone story from Emma and definitely foxed me along the way!
The story follows Ellen and Robert and their relationship... built on truths, secrets and lies - but what is truth?
An old friend called Lucy invites the pair to her holiday home, and this is pretty much where life for the pair starts to unravel.
I absolutely love Emma's writing style. I'm usually really good at working out what's going to happen with these types of books, but Emma kept me guessing.
A few times, I thought I had sussed it, but... nope!
Ellen, as a character, is lovely, if incredibly insecure about herself, which is seen with her comparing herself to Lucy. She is an incredible Mum though and has built a successful career too even though she had her eldest daughter early.
Robert grew on me more as the book went by.
The story is a complex Web of full/half truths, lies, and secrets. Emma leaves enough information for the reader to try and work out, which is what is going on!
I did really feel for Ellen and her past, though, much like Robert's.
This is a classic crime thriller, and I had fun reading it, but to u derstandthw story as a whole and get the real impact... you really do need to read it!
Recommend to crime and thriller lovers everywhere!
The story follows Ellen and Robert and their relationship... built on truths, secrets and lies - but what is truth?
An old friend called Lucy invites the pair to her holiday home, and this is pretty much where life for the pair starts to unravel.
I absolutely love Emma's writing style. I'm usually really good at working out what's going to happen with these types of books, but Emma kept me guessing.
A few times, I thought I had sussed it, but... nope!
Ellen, as a character, is lovely, if incredibly insecure about herself, which is seen with her comparing herself to Lucy. She is an incredible Mum though and has built a successful career too even though she had her eldest daughter early.
Robert grew on me more as the book went by.
The story is a complex Web of full/half truths, lies, and secrets. Emma leaves enough information for the reader to try and work out, which is what is going on!
I did really feel for Ellen and her past, though, much like Robert's.
This is a classic crime thriller, and I had fun reading it, but to u derstandthw story as a whole and get the real impact... you really do need to read it!
Recommend to crime and thriller lovers everywhere!
June 22, 2025
Thank you @bookouture and @emmarobinsonuk for my complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
🌞With their daughters now grown up, ELLEN and ROBERT want to focus on their own relationship again. When a close friend invites them to stay at her villa in Spain, it seems like the perfect chance for a romantic getaway.
🌞But once they arrive, things change as Robert becomes more distant. He stops talking and takes long walks alone, which worries Ellen. Then she finds a crumpled note that suggests Robert has been keeping a secret. Heartbroken, she realizes that his hidden truth might tear their family apart, and she has to decide whether to share her own secret. With both of them holding onto their secrets, she wonders if they can move forward.
MY THOUGHTS: This book masterfully weaves dual timelines, creating a rich storyline filled with likable characters and unexpected twists. The secrets, gradually revealed throughout the story, took me by surprise, keeping me engaged in the unfolding drama as I eagerly turned the pages to discover how everything would resolve. The setting was beautifully described, and the strong character development added depth to the storyline. Overall, this is an enjoyable read that held my attention from start to finish.
🌞With their daughters now grown up, ELLEN and ROBERT want to focus on their own relationship again. When a close friend invites them to stay at her villa in Spain, it seems like the perfect chance for a romantic getaway.
🌞But once they arrive, things change as Robert becomes more distant. He stops talking and takes long walks alone, which worries Ellen. Then she finds a crumpled note that suggests Robert has been keeping a secret. Heartbroken, she realizes that his hidden truth might tear their family apart, and she has to decide whether to share her own secret. With both of them holding onto their secrets, she wonders if they can move forward.
MY THOUGHTS: This book masterfully weaves dual timelines, creating a rich storyline filled with likable characters and unexpected twists. The secrets, gradually revealed throughout the story, took me by surprise, keeping me engaged in the unfolding drama as I eagerly turned the pages to discover how everything would resolve. The setting was beautifully described, and the strong character development added depth to the storyline. Overall, this is an enjoyable read that held my attention from start to finish.
June 24, 2025
Ellen and Robert are college sweethearts about to be empty nesters. But their marriage has lost its pizzazz. Nothing like reuniting with an old college friend to refresh things... not.
You think this book is pretty predictable but it's got some change ups. Change ups that were a bit odd or just out of the ordinary whatever. When you get through the main reveal and deal with that fallout, you remember the book is We BOTH Have Secrets. So the 'second half' begins.
This book was so frustrating for me. It totally put me in a negative mood just over marital issues. I guess that's the point, though? The whole first half of the book I was just mad. Mad at the husband, at the friend, and then at Ellen who is a totally pathetic naive doormat. The book is told completely in her POV so I really just wanted to shake her. A lot.
Overall, it was a good book, it kept my interest - even though I hated everyone. Well, hate is pretty strong - how about really disliked?
But... all's well that ends well.
If half star ratings were available, I would rank this as 3.5, but they aren't so it's just a 3.
(Thank you to NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book.)
You think this book is pretty predictable but it's got some change ups. Change ups that were a bit odd or just out of the ordinary whatever. When you get through the main reveal and deal with that fallout, you remember the book is We BOTH Have Secrets. So the 'second half' begins.
This book was so frustrating for me. It totally put me in a negative mood just over marital issues. I guess that's the point, though? The whole first half of the book I was just mad. Mad at the husband, at the friend, and then at Ellen who is a totally pathetic naive doormat. The book is told completely in her POV so I really just wanted to shake her. A lot.
Overall, it was a good book, it kept my interest - even though I hated everyone. Well, hate is pretty strong - how about really disliked?
But... all's well that ends well.
If half star ratings were available, I would rank this as 3.5, but they aren't so it's just a 3.
(Thank you to NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book.)
June 2, 2025
We Both Have Secrets is a heartwarming, emotional domestic story. It starts with a half written confession, but doesn't say who is confessing or what they are confessing.
Ellen and Robert, married for many years, are saying goodbye to their youngest daughter who is off to university. Invited by a mutual friend from their university days, they take a trip that should be full of romance and mark the beginning of their next phase in life. This, however, does not come to fruition as they both have secrets they are keeping from each other.
Filled with all the elements of a great domestic novel, this was an amazing read that I thoroughly enjoyed. Emma Robinson knows how to write a great tear jerker, so have plenty of tissues nearby. The characters, though unreliable, are likeable and well written. After all, who doesn't have a little secret or two from their past they don't want to come out. I highly recommend this book.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the advanced copy
Ellen and Robert, married for many years, are saying goodbye to their youngest daughter who is off to university. Invited by a mutual friend from their university days, they take a trip that should be full of romance and mark the beginning of their next phase in life. This, however, does not come to fruition as they both have secrets they are keeping from each other.
Filled with all the elements of a great domestic novel, this was an amazing read that I thoroughly enjoyed. Emma Robinson knows how to write a great tear jerker, so have plenty of tissues nearby. The characters, though unreliable, are likeable and well written. After all, who doesn't have a little secret or two from their past they don't want to come out. I highly recommend this book.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the advanced copy
July 9, 2025
Robert and Ellen are empty nesters now, as their youngest of two daughtersa started university. It's time to put effort into their own relationship and be close to each other again. Her long-lost friend Lucy invited them to her Spanish villa. Ellen is excited about it. When they both arrive, she found her husband is hiding something big, which everyone knows but herself. She has secrets of her own, and it's time to get everything out in the open.
✨️A simple and engaging, easy-to-read family drama. Told from Ellen's point of view, including snippets from their past university lives. Ellen has several insecurities about herself, and most of the time, she is paranoid and doubting everyone throughout the fitst half. The second half of the book is much more interesting and emotional. Once both of their shocking secrets are revealed, the love and support of family members are beautifully maintained. The burden of secrets in any relationship can destroy lives, and the strength to overcome the problems was captured in the book with the satisfying ending.
✨️A simple and engaging, easy-to-read family drama. Told from Ellen's point of view, including snippets from their past university lives. Ellen has several insecurities about herself, and most of the time, she is paranoid and doubting everyone throughout the fitst half. The second half of the book is much more interesting and emotional. Once both of their shocking secrets are revealed, the love and support of family members are beautifully maintained. The burden of secrets in any relationship can destroy lives, and the strength to overcome the problems was captured in the book with the satisfying ending.
August 16, 2025
This book is an emotionally layered novel that explores the threads of trust, the weight of hidden truths, and the enduring power of relationships. It is about college friends Emma and Lucy who are reconnecting after 30 years. During college their friendship was unbreakable, but is now strained by time, distance, and the secrets they’ve kept from each other. Their relationship is tested as the story unfolds, revealing how past choices and buried truths can echo into the present.
The other relationship that the story centers around is the marriage of Emma and Robert, and how they react and handle each others secrets. Emma’s is deeply personal and tied to her sense of identity and motherhood, while Robert is hiding something that threatens the very foundation of their marriage.
What I truly enjoyed about this story is the resolution. The final chapters are rich with emotional payoff, showcasing strong marriages that have weathered storms, and family relationships that are rebuilt with honesty and compassion. The ending feel earned and satisfying.
The other relationship that the story centers around is the marriage of Emma and Robert, and how they react and handle each others secrets. Emma’s is deeply personal and tied to her sense of identity and motherhood, while Robert is hiding something that threatens the very foundation of their marriage.
What I truly enjoyed about this story is the resolution. The final chapters are rich with emotional payoff, showcasing strong marriages that have weathered storms, and family relationships that are rebuilt with honesty and compassion. The ending feel earned and satisfying.
May 18, 2025
This was a really lovely book, and I honestly couldn’t put it down. If you like continuous secrets that keep you guessing and don’t come to light until the very last few pages, this book is for you.
Every time I thought I had it all figured out, I was wrong. The writing was beautiful and engaging. The only thing I felt was that the last few chapters(no spoilers here) could have been drawn out a bit more for a more satisfying conclusion. Everything just happened too fast for my liking, or maybe I just wanted to savor the justice. But overall this book was fantastic and I definitely had all the emotions. 🥲
Also can I just mention how brilliant the characters are?! I love them and all of their individual character arcs! This book truly highlights how very complex friendships and family dynamics are, and I’m here for it!
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Every time I thought I had it all figured out, I was wrong. The writing was beautiful and engaging. The only thing I felt was that the last few chapters(no spoilers here) could have been drawn out a bit more for a more satisfying conclusion. Everything just happened too fast for my liking, or maybe I just wanted to savor the justice. But overall this book was fantastic and I definitely had all the emotions. 🥲
Also can I just mention how brilliant the characters are?! I love them and all of their individual character arcs! This book truly highlights how very complex friendships and family dynamics are, and I’m here for it!
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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