Secrets Among Thorns

by J.A. Andrews

She's been missing for 10 years, but can a gut feeling unravel the truth?

Carol, is a mother struggling to hold her family together in the aftermath of her brother-in-law Luke's terminal cancer diagnosis. As Carol and her husband Darren grapple with this tragedy, their daughter Lauren mysteriously vanishes. This inciting incident sets the stage for a decade-long mystery that consumes Carol and Darren's lives, straining their already tumultuous marriage.

Years later, Brenda, a 63-year-old woman with a Romany Gypsy heritage who believes she has psychic abilities, becomes obsessed with Lauren's disappearance after seeing her face in a local newspaper. Despite her husband Alan's scepticism, Brenda feels a profound spiritual connection to the case and is convinced that she is meant to help uncover the truth. When the Cooke’s travel to the picturesque town of Salcombe, hoping to follow up on a potential sighting of Lauren, Brenda's path crosses with theirs.

As Brenda interacts with the Cooke’s, she experiences a series of unsettling visions and psychic impressions. Meanwhile, Carol and Darren's search grows increasingly strained, but Brenda's growing conviction that Lauren might be dead sets the stage for a dramatic confrontation.

An absolutely gripping psychological thriller with a shocking twist in the tale. Readers of T.M. Logan, KL Slater and Richard Osman will not be able to put this one down.

258 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 2, 2025

About the author

JA Andrews is the author of thriller novels and can be found on twitter: @JasonA1980 and on BlueSky as @jasona.co.uk

As well as writing fiction, JA Andrews enjoys reading a mix of genres, watching various reality TV and spending time with family and friends.

Reviews

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I kind of have mixed feelings on this book. There were definitely aspects that I loved, but there were also a couple of things that I found kind of off putting. In terms of the premise, I was intrigued from the second I read the synopsis and I knew this was going to be an interesting read!

I really enjoyed the plot, and the characters were really intriguing to me and super interesting to read about. I loved the slight supernatural aspect in terms of Brenda and her psychic abilities, and I thought that was a really interesting element! I also really liked the multiple POVs, and that we went back and forth between the past and the present.

Something that I wasn’t a fan of was that there was a lot of grammar and spelling mistakes throughout the book, and that was kind of distracting me from the actual story. I can definitely overlook a few mistakes, but it felt like there were multiple on every page. I’m not sure if it’s because this is an arc and not a finalised copy, and it’s probably just a me thing! But I thought I’d mention it because the errors got a little annoying after a while.

Some of the book and the writing also felt kind of choppy to me, but then other parts of it flowed really well, so it was kind of hit or miss for me, hence why I have mixed feelings! Overall, I really did enjoy the plot and the plot twist was definitely a shock, but the issues I mentioned before with the grammar and flow of the book kind of hindered my enjoyment. I would definitely recommend it to any thriller fans though, because the plot was fantastic!

Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Wall-to-wall books - wendy · Rating 3 out of 5]

MY THOUGHTS -

In a nutshell... This had a great beginning. It hooked me right away. But then it was a little draggy in the middle. Thank goodness it picked back up towards the end.

I wasn't really "in love" with the two main characters Carol or Brenda, but they were likable enough.

Even though this book was "just OK" for me I kept reading. What did it for me was the paranormal feel, which I loved. Brenda could feel things and see things in her dreams and in visions. Her gift was not as strong as her grandmother whom she greatly looked up to. I also loved this part. Even though her grandmother had passed away she was still very much a part of the story. It was almost like she was channeling her Gran for help.

To be honest I was not surprised by the ending. This was OK with me. I don't always need to be surprised. I would rather have an ending that I an happy with and I was happy with this one.

While not my favorite read of the year it is still a good solid mystery with a touch of the paranormal making it all worth it.


I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from Rachel's Random Resources.

[Heidi Lynn’s BookReviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, I want to thank JA Andrews, BookGoSocial, Rachel's Random Resources and NetGalley for providing me with this book so I can bring you this review.

YES!!! JA Andrews is back with another psychological thriller and oh how I have missed his books! I have been a die hard fan of his since his first book Mummy Boy. Since his debut book his stories have gotten darker and gone down different paths. Secrets Among Thorns is unique in that it not only is a psychological thriller but has some paranormal/sci-fi aspects to it as well that makes for great read.

Secrets Among Thorns is the perfect title for this fast paced quick read that was so addicting that I devoured it in one afternoon. Not sure why but I have always been a fan of missing person cases in books. JA will pull on your heart strings with Lauren being missing for 10 years and her parents trying to find her. Usually not really into sci-fi or paranormal however the way it was used in this book it really made the storyline so much more interesting.

Secrets Among Thorns was a book that had so many betrayals, earth shattering secrets, and heartaches that totally blew my mind. JA did an amazing job with keeping me guessing that I was too blindsided by one bombshell after another to figure anything out!! But when I did OMG!!! This ginger snapped!!! JA This is your best written book to date!! It deserves more than 5 stars!!

[Anesa Hamid · Rating 4 out of 5]

Carol and Darren are living through a nightmare, struggling to cope with the disappearance of their daughter, Lauren, while also grieving the loss of Darren’s younger brother, Luke. When they receive a tip about a possible sighting of Lauren, they rush to the town in hopes of finally finding answers. There, they meet Brenda, a kind woman who feels an instant connection to Carol and Lauren. Brenda, a spiritualist, becomes convinced she’s meant to help this family and that fate has brought them together.

All Carol and Darren want is to find their daughter, but as they dig deeper, they uncover truths that are far more than they bargained for.

This was my first time reading a book by J. A. Andrews, and she did an amazing job capturing my attention from the start. Written from multiple points of view and alternating between events from ten years ago and the present, the story flows beautifully without ever feeling confusing. The transitions are seamless, and the pacing keeps you invested.

The book explores powerful themes of trust, grief, and the lies families tell themselves to survive. It shows how secrets and internal struggles can push people to their breaking points. And that twist at the end? I definitely didn’t see it coming!

Thoroughly enjoyed this one, and I’ll definitely be reading more by J. A. Andrews.

Highly recommend for those who love a slow-burn psychological thriller.

Thank you, NetGalley, the author and the publisher, for an advance copy for an honest review.

[Evelyn Jane Thorne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me feeling everything! Sadness, frustration, anticipation, and so much anger! But by the end, I was completely gobsmacked.

I enjoyed the use of multiple perspectives and timelines. Brenda was my favourite character. Her psychic abilities and tarot readings made the story even more intriguing.

Looking back, I can see that there were plenty of clues about what really happened, but I missed every single one. That ending was a chef’s kiss moment!

Thanks to BooksGoSocial, Netgalley and J.A. Andrews for my advanced copy

[Maja · Rating 3 out of 5]

First, thank you Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for the ARC!

The blurb of this book did really draw me in, however, I did struggle a little with the multiple POVs and different timelines. That is a me-problöem, though, seeing the story was still very twisty and drawing me in from page one so I had to keep reading, needing to know what would happen next.

I am giving 3.5 stars for this one.

[Mariann Snyder · Rating 1 out of 5]

I admit that I read only the first four chapters of Secrets Among Thorns (Kindle edition). The grammar, punctuation, and general typos (the same phrase erroneously repeated in a sentence, for example) led me to conclude that it wasn't worth it. I'm too OCD. I'm sorry, Mr. Andrews.

[Casey Forbes · Rating 1 out of 5]

I made it 40% & couldn’t continue. The repetition from chapter to chapter was so bad & the conversations between characters simply didn’t flow. The story idea was intriguing, but the execution fell flat.

[Katrina G]

DNF at 19%

The writing style just really isn't for me. It's a lot of telling instead of showing, and I don't care for any of the characters

[Tracy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting storyline, but poor editing. Too many "typos" throughout book.

[Sarah Jensen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: Secrets Among Thorns: A shocking thriller packed with secrets and lies by JA Andrews

JA Andrews’ Secrets Among Thorns is a gripping thriller that masterfully weaves together a complex web of secrets, lies, and suspense. The novel follows a protagonist caught in a world where nothing is as it seems, and the truth is constantly obscured by deception. Andrews’ skillful plotting and character development make this a compelling read from start to finish, with twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Premise & Themes
The story centers around a protagonist who becomes entangled in a mysterious situation that exposes the dark underbelly of their community. Themes of trust, betrayal, and the consequences of secrets drive the narrative, as the protagonist navigates a treacherous landscape of hidden truths and false appearances. Andrews explores the idea that the past is never truly past and that secrets can have far-reaching and devastating consequences.

Strengths & Highlights
-Engaging Plot: The novel is expertly paced, with a plot that is both intricate and engaging.
-Complex Characters: The characters are multi-dimensional, with rich backstories that add depth to the story.
-Suspenseful Atmosphere: Andrews creates a palpable sense of tension that keeps readers invested in the story.
-Twists and Turns: The book is full of unexpected twists that challenge the reader’s perceptions and keep them guessing.

Areas for Improvement
Some readers might find that a few of the supporting characters could be fleshed out more, and certain plot threads, while resolved, feel slightly predictable in hindsight. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise well-crafted thriller.

Score Breakdown (Out of 5)
-Plot Complexity: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – The plot is intricate and engaging, with plenty of surprises.
-Character Development: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Characters are complex and well-developed, though some supporting characters could be fleshed out more.
-Pacing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – The pacing is well-balanced, maintaining tension throughout.
-Originality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – While familiar thriller tropes are used, Andrews brings a fresh perspective.
-Emotional Impact: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – The story is emotionally engaging, with a strong emotional payoff.
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – A gripping thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Andrews’ skillful storytelling and complex characters make this a standout in the genre.

Perfect For:
-Fans of suspenseful thrillers with complex plots.
-Readers who enjoy character-driven mysteries.
-Anyone looking for a story with unexpected twists and turns.

Acknowledgments:
Thank you to NetGalley and JA Andrews for providing an advance review copy of Secrets Among Thorns in exchange for an honest review.

Final Thought: Secrets Among Thorns is a masterfully crafted thriller that will appeal to fans of the genre. JA Andrews has a knack for creating stories that are both suspenseful and emotionally resonant, making this a must-read for anyone looking for a gripping page-turner.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Secrets Among Thorns is a thought-provoking and suspenseful novel that will appeal to fans of psychological thrillers. Its unique point of view and complex characters make it a standout in the genre.

The plot is well-paced, with twists and turns that maintain tension without resorting to clichés. Andrews' writing is both evocative and precise, painting vivid scenes that linger in the mind. The characters are multifaceted, each harboring their own secrets and motivations, which adds richness to the narrative.

While the novel excels in many areas, there are moments where the pacing slows, and certain plot developments could have been explored more deeply. However, these are minor personal issues that I had with this one. It didn't ruin the overall reading experience for me.

[Staceywh_17 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this is my fourth read by Andrews. It's now my favourite of his to date.

It hooked me with immediate effect and I ended up bingeing in one sitting...it's that good!

The twists and turns just don't stop, and the ending was one of those 'what did I just read' moments. It's told in the then and now, and narrated from the voices of Carol and Brenda.

Secrets and lies abound, and I've since learnt to expect the unexpected...

A great plot with addictive and engaging characters.

Absolutely loved it!

[Jen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found this a very intriguing read and wasn’t really sure which way it was going to go. Carol and Darren struggle when their daughter Lauren goes missing. This comes after Darren’s brother Luke receives a diagnosis of terminal cancer and puts pressure on their relationship. Ten years later 63 year old Brenda becomes obsessed with Lauren’s disappearance and is convinced that she has a spiritual connection to her. When Carol and Darren go to Salcombe, to follow up on a lead about a possible sighting of Lauren, they meet Brenda……. The way the characters interact and how the different aspects of the story weave in and out kept me totally engaged. This has plenty of twists and turns and if you like a good psychological thriller this is one for you.

[mrsbookburnee Niamh Burnett · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, we are getting more Brenda right? She needs to have a lifetime worth of a series right?

Loved, Loved , loved this and inhaled it in a couple of hours. This is my first book by the author and I have already downloaded his others to binge.

This book brings you on a ride, a very twisty ride, I suspected all the characters of wrong doings, but completely incorrectly! 😂.

This is perfect if you want a fast paced drama that pulls you in and then spits you back out again with its final twist!

[Nadine-Sue Sargent · Rating 5 out of 5]

Psychological thriller but with an interesting investigator! Bren has a very specific skill that leads her to solve the crime in this. I like Bren. She's an interesting character and her husband is somewhat amusing. He seems to humour her without realising there's more to her gift that originally assumed.

Carol is very different and I felt sad but a little frustrated at her situation. Not one I've lived or could identify with so easy for me to say she should have walked. I'm not surprised at the outcome of it all or who the culprit was. It's desperately sad and Kieran remains to deal with what's left. He has his own demons and I did end up wondering what would be next for him.

Carol and Bren are where they need to be and I think Bren's plan to support the community is a good one...maybe an opportunity for more to come from her

[TheLisaD · Rating 5 out of 5]

J.A. Andrews delivers a compelling and tightly woven psychological thriller in Secrets Among Thorns, a novel that masterfully balances suspense, mystery, and emotional intensity. From the very first chapter, the story pulls readers into a dark and tangled web of secrets, setting the tone for a gripping read that’s nearly impossible to put down.

What makes this thriller stand out is its relentless pacing and the constant sense of unease that builds with every chapter. Andrews has a talent for creating layered tension, keeping readers on edge as they try to untangle the truth hidden among lies and half-truths. The suspense is sharp, and the story’s twist—when it comes—is clever, unexpected, and executed with skill.

The writing is crisp and immersive, with characters that feel real and motivations that are both believable and chilling. The emotional undercurrents running through the novel enhance the stakes, making the twists hit even harder.

Secrets Among Thorns is a thrilling ride from beginning to end, perfect for fans of psychological suspense who enjoy fast-paced narratives with smart plotting and shocking reveals. J.A. Andrews has crafted a page-turner that will keep you hooked long into the night.

[Shiloh · Rating 4 out of 5]

A psychological thriller/mystery told from multiple view points. Brenda is an observant, underestimated elderly cleaning lady with a touch of psychic ability who cannot let go of the 10 year old missing person's case involving a 17 year old girl. When she has the opportunity to connect with the family of the missing girl, she is drawn into the mystery and the secrets of what happened that fateful night.

J.A. Andrews has done a brilliant job of keeping you guessing as he weaves the story from the past to the present in this psychological thriller told from multiple viewpoints. The transitions between the viewpoints are seamless and it's easy to identify the voice of the characters. While all the characters were interesting and relatable, it was Brenda who stood out. She reminded me of a combo of Columbo and Mrs. Marple as the non intimidating, kind, elderly lady with a mind like a steel trap. There were just enough clues to lead me to solving the mystery. But, they were twisty and interesting enough to keep me reading long into the night. This was my first read by J.A. Andrews but will not be my last. Thank you J.A. Andrews, NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for this ARC.

[Nicola Shelley]

This was my first read for this author. When I read the synopsis I was definitely intrigued to read it. There were some twists along the way which kept me guessing. I enjoyed it and will be reading more from this author. Thank you to NetGalley for granting me permission to read this arc.