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Vera Boyett #3
Secrets You Can't Keep: Vera Boyett, Book 3
From
USA Today
bestselling author Debra Webb comes crime analyst Vera Boyett’s next case—a triple homicide that tears a small town apart…and an accident that could do worse to her family.
A cabin in the woods. Three dead, one in critical condition. Property owned by not just any Tennessee local, but one of the richest men in the country.
Vera Boyett isn’t quite sure what it means. But that’s why Sheriff Gray “Bent” Benton called to figure it out. Criminal analysis is what she does best. Even when the town is in panicked shambles, even when the case is more delicate than most…and even when it’s not the only case on her plate.
Vera’s family is caught in a deadly mess of its own. And while her pregnant sister seems an unlikely culprit, each new detail seems to point to her guilt. Desperate to protect her, Vera vows to find out what really happened.
As evidence emerges in both cases, Vera and Bent work to unravel a dangerous web of secrets to get to the truth. But their investigations reveal more than they ever expected…
A cabin in the woods. Three dead, one in critical condition. Property owned by not just any Tennessee local, but one of the richest men in the country.
Vera Boyett isn’t quite sure what it means. But that’s why Sheriff Gray “Bent” Benton called to figure it out. Criminal analysis is what she does best. Even when the town is in panicked shambles, even when the case is more delicate than most…and even when it’s not the only case on her plate.
Vera’s family is caught in a deadly mess of its own. And while her pregnant sister seems an unlikely culprit, each new detail seems to point to her guilt. Desperate to protect her, Vera vows to find out what really happened.
As evidence emerges in both cases, Vera and Bent work to unravel a dangerous web of secrets to get to the truth. But their investigations reveal more than they ever expected…
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Published December 9, 2025
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About the author
Debra Webb
547 books2,375 followersDEBRA WEBB is the USA Today bestselling author of more than 170 novels, including reader favorites the Finley O'Sullivan and Devlin & Falco series. She is the recipient of the prestigious Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for Romantic Suspense as well as numerous Reviewers Choice Awards. In 2012 Debra was honored as the first recipient of the esteemed L. A. Banks Warrior Woman Award for her courage, strength, and grace in the face of adversity. Recently Debra was awarded the distinguished Centennial Award for having achieved publication of her 100th novel.
With more than four million books in print in numerous languages and countries, Debra’s love of storytelling goes back to her childhood when her mother bought her an old typewriter in a tag sale. Born in Alabama, Debra grew up on a farm. She spent every available hour exploring the world around her and creating her stories. She wrote her first story at age nine and her first romance at thirteen. It wasn’t until she spent three years working for the Commanding General of the US Army in Berlin behind the Iron Curtain and a five-year stint in NASA’s Shuttle Program that she realized her true calling. A collision course between suspense and romance was set. Since then she has expanded her work into some of the darkest places the human psyche dares to go. Visit Debra at www.debrawebb.com.
With more than four million books in print in numerous languages and countries, Debra’s love of storytelling goes back to her childhood when her mother bought her an old typewriter in a tag sale. Born in Alabama, Debra grew up on a farm. She spent every available hour exploring the world around her and creating her stories. She wrote her first story at age nine and her first romance at thirteen. It wasn’t until she spent three years working for the Commanding General of the US Army in Berlin behind the Iron Curtain and a five-year stint in NASA’s Shuttle Program that she realized her true calling. A collision course between suspense and romance was set. Since then she has expanded her work into some of the darkest places the human psyche dares to go. Visit Debra at www.debrawebb.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 199 reviews
December 12, 2025
I’ve been excited about finally getting to the new Vera Boyett installment; I’m really enjoying this series and Vera and the gang in a small town outside of Fayettville, TN. The murder rate in this “small town” is probably right up there with the murder rate in Painter’s Mill. For those fans of Linda Catillo’s Kate Burkholder series, you know what I’m talking about.
The book summary introduces the two storylines: one of the multiple murders at the cabin of the area’s local billionaire and the second the death of the mother-in-law (MIL) of Vera’s little sister, Luna. Vera, now a Crime Scene Analyst Consultant, works with Sheriff Bent on the murder investigation of Thomas Wilton and two of his guests. Wilton’s wife, Alicia, is the only survivor from the murder spree and she is rushed to the hospital and is in a coma. However, Vera soon discovers that she has another death on her hands when she learns that Luna found her MIL, Jackie, dead at the bottom of the stairs when Luna returned from the store. Like a lot of relationships with MIL’s, Luna and Jackie have never gotten along and actually despise each other.
Most of the story follows the investigations of the murders at Wilton’s cabin. The primary suspects are the beneficiaries of the will, starting with Alicia, Wilton’s longtime personal assistant, Valeri, along with some longtime employees, Helen, Renata and Jose. It’s pretty east to immediately start suspecting Valeri because she is so unlikeable and she’s in love with Thomas and definitely didn’t like Alicia. As for Luna, based on preliminary evidence, Luna is looking pretty good for the murder of Jackie. However, anyone familiar with this series can’t really seriously suspect Luna. From the get-go I never did, and I resigned myself to having to wait until the end to find out who killed Jackie.
It’s a wild and crazy ending with some pretty scary and intense scenes for Vera and Sheriff Bent along with a boatload of investigation discoveries and suspect confessions, as well as some surprising revelations. The continued character development for Vera and Bent as well as Luna was pretty good. The pacing was steady and the storyline was engrossing. The writing was on par for the series, in other words pretty wild, but then again, this is a crime thriller about a small town in TN where the murder rate rises with every installment. I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.1 that I will be rounding down to a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and Thomas Mercer, for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #ThomasMercer #SecretsYouCantKeep
The book summary introduces the two storylines: one of the multiple murders at the cabin of the area’s local billionaire and the second the death of the mother-in-law (MIL) of Vera’s little sister, Luna. Vera, now a Crime Scene Analyst Consultant, works with Sheriff Bent on the murder investigation of Thomas Wilton and two of his guests. Wilton’s wife, Alicia, is the only survivor from the murder spree and she is rushed to the hospital and is in a coma. However, Vera soon discovers that she has another death on her hands when she learns that Luna found her MIL, Jackie, dead at the bottom of the stairs when Luna returned from the store. Like a lot of relationships with MIL’s, Luna and Jackie have never gotten along and actually despise each other.
Most of the story follows the investigations of the murders at Wilton’s cabin. The primary suspects are the beneficiaries of the will, starting with Alicia, Wilton’s longtime personal assistant, Valeri, along with some longtime employees, Helen, Renata and Jose. It’s pretty east to immediately start suspecting Valeri because she is so unlikeable and she’s in love with Thomas and definitely didn’t like Alicia. As for Luna, based on preliminary evidence, Luna is looking pretty good for the murder of Jackie. However, anyone familiar with this series can’t really seriously suspect Luna. From the get-go I never did, and I resigned myself to having to wait until the end to find out who killed Jackie.
It’s a wild and crazy ending with some pretty scary and intense scenes for Vera and Sheriff Bent along with a boatload of investigation discoveries and suspect confessions, as well as some surprising revelations. The continued character development for Vera and Bent as well as Luna was pretty good. The pacing was steady and the storyline was engrossing. The writing was on par for the series, in other words pretty wild, but then again, this is a crime thriller about a small town in TN where the murder rate rises with every installment. I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.1 that I will be rounding down to a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and Thomas Mercer, for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #ThomasMercer #SecretsYouCantKeep
August 9, 2025
4.5 stars rounded down.
I didn’t realize this was the third book in a series, but I’ll definitely be going back to read the others! While some context might have added depth and clarity, I was still hooked from the start. The mystery kept me turning pages, constantly eager to see what would happen next and how each character would be involved. The plot felt real and grounded, making the stakes even higher, and the pacing was spot on—revelations came just at the right moments to keep me engaged.
What really stood out, though, were the relationships between the characters. The dynamics were so well-crafted that I was as invested in their personal connections as I was in solving the mystery itself. This book made me a fan of Webb, and I’m excited to read more of her work in the future.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable suspense and, being a Tennessean, I also loved the TN location and references!
** I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to the author and publisher! **
I didn’t realize this was the third book in a series, but I’ll definitely be going back to read the others! While some context might have added depth and clarity, I was still hooked from the start. The mystery kept me turning pages, constantly eager to see what would happen next and how each character would be involved. The plot felt real and grounded, making the stakes even higher, and the pacing was spot on—revelations came just at the right moments to keep me engaged.
What really stood out, though, were the relationships between the characters. The dynamics were so well-crafted that I was as invested in their personal connections as I was in solving the mystery itself. This book made me a fan of Webb, and I’m excited to read more of her work in the future.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable suspense and, being a Tennessean, I also loved the TN location and references!
** I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to the author and publisher! **
January 22, 2026
I listened to the audiobook for this one I did like the narrator. This is book 3 in the series and while it worked as a standalone I think I would have enjoyed it more if I had read the earlier two books. There were a lot of references to the previous books. In this one Vera has two crimes to solve, one is a triple homicide and a second crime involves her sister finding the body of her horrible mother in law. She is determined to prove her sister is innocent. Working with her partner to solve both crimes she puts herself in danger but is determined to figure out the truth. The characters were interesting and I was invested in what happened to them.
November 23, 2025
3.5 rounded up to a 4
I really enjoy the Boyett sisters and the dogged sheriff Bent. This was quite the page turner, and although I "knew" who did it several times (and they were different people 😂), there's a final twist that you don't see coming. A good read!!
Thank you to Net Galley and Thomas and Mercer for giving me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoy the Boyett sisters and the dogged sheriff Bent. This was quite the page turner, and although I "knew" who did it several times (and they were different people 😂), there's a final twist that you don't see coming. A good read!!
Thank you to Net Galley and Thomas and Mercer for giving me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 25, 2025
Vera Boyett, who had been called to the scene of a gruesome triple murder, soon discovers that one of her sisters, Luna, might be involved in the crime. Luna, along with her sister Eve, had found contentment in their lives and relationships, and Vera had often envied their happiness. However, Vera soon realizes that things are not always as they seem.
Every now and again I think about whether or not a book is character given or is it plot driven. In this book, I think it is definitely character driven because of the familiar connection between Vera and her sister Luna. Then there is the connection between Vera and Ben and the possibility of where their relationship might go. With the other friendships and relationships that show strength in the story, it was easy to connect to the characters.
While it seems as this might be the final book in a series I have really enjoyed, I will be continuing to read books by Debra Webb.
Many thanks to Thomas & Mercer and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Every now and again I think about whether or not a book is character given or is it plot driven. In this book, I think it is definitely character driven because of the familiar connection between Vera and her sister Luna. Then there is the connection between Vera and Ben and the possibility of where their relationship might go. With the other friendships and relationships that show strength in the story, it was easy to connect to the characters.
While it seems as this might be the final book in a series I have really enjoyed, I will be continuing to read books by Debra Webb.
Many thanks to Thomas & Mercer and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
July 23, 2025
Thank you Netgalley for giving me the privilege to read this an Advanced Reader Copy for my honest review. I truly appreciate it.
Now this thriller hooked me from the beginning! I wanted to know the whole story immediately. Vera is a criminal analysis while Bent is the sheriff. They are on a mission to solve not one but two separate murders investigations. There were so many twists and turns where I really wasn’t sure what was going to happen. Even some chapter cliffhangers had me on the edge of my seat. I loved Vera’s and Bent’s working relationship as well as watching them grow closer together as time went on. Out of both murder investigations I was really hooked on Vera’’s sisters mother in law’s case. I truly wasn’t sure how that one was going to play out. I felt Vera was a strong character and I loved how she was able to trust her instincts and want to protect her pregnant sister.
Now there were times where I felt some chapters got repetitive or even felt too detailed. I felt like I was going in circles trying to piece the story together where I got kinda confused on my theories and the characters theories. So it was hard for me to keep all the facts straight. Then once I finally got to the end it was wrapped up into the last 10%-15% of the book. I just wanted it dragged out a little more for a thriller. But I truly enjoyed this thriller!
Now this thriller hooked me from the beginning! I wanted to know the whole story immediately. Vera is a criminal analysis while Bent is the sheriff. They are on a mission to solve not one but two separate murders investigations. There were so many twists and turns where I really wasn’t sure what was going to happen. Even some chapter cliffhangers had me on the edge of my seat. I loved Vera’s and Bent’s working relationship as well as watching them grow closer together as time went on. Out of both murder investigations I was really hooked on Vera’’s sisters mother in law’s case. I truly wasn’t sure how that one was going to play out. I felt Vera was a strong character and I loved how she was able to trust her instincts and want to protect her pregnant sister.
Now there were times where I felt some chapters got repetitive or even felt too detailed. I felt like I was going in circles trying to piece the story together where I got kinda confused on my theories and the characters theories. So it was hard for me to keep all the facts straight. Then once I finally got to the end it was wrapped up into the last 10%-15% of the book. I just wanted it dragged out a little more for a thriller. But I truly enjoyed this thriller!
December 16, 2025
Two separate cases, 4 dead bodies. One of these murder cases puts Vera in a tough spot, her youngest sister/Luna could be a possible suspect. The deeper into the investigations Bent and Vera get, the number of suspects grows as well as the body count. This made it difficult to figure out just who the guilty party or parties would be. Just when I thought I had it figured out, the author would up the suspense and throw in another clever twist. Good story, great ending.
December 9, 2025
The newest book about Vera Boyett is an edgy and high-tension mystery with bodies piling up all over her little town in Tennessee. Her sister Luna is pregnant with her first child and the first death is Luna’s mother-in-law. Jackie is unpleasant and judgmental but Vera doesn’t think she deserved to die. She just has to find out how she died before she can comfort Luna who feels grief as well as guilt. Then there is the case of the multi-millionaire who is obviously murdered at a grisly crime scene, along with two others. Vera and Sheriff Benton (Bent) investigate and follow all of the leads, but the trail is a winding path of lies and secrets. They have to use all of their intuition as well as the police procedures that they normally follow in order to track down the crafty and vicious killer. This book is mystery, thriller, suspense, and police procedural all wrapped up in a satisfying and cleverly written novel that is an intriguing page turner. It is multi-layered, with family drama playing a role along with the murders. The author used skillful misdirection to keep me guessing and created characters that were relatable, if not all likable. Filled with twists and intense suspense, this book was a fascinating and unputdownable mystery and a welcome addition to the tales of the Boyett family. It can definitely be read and enjoyed as a standalone, but I read and thoroughly enjoyed all three books and think that reading them in order is the best way to read this compelling series.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
November 27, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC.
Now… this is probably my favorite book in the Vera Boyett series so far. It felt a bit more balanced than the other 2: we had drama, murders (yep... lots of them) and a few sprinkles of romance too.
Ofc Vera’s family is back in the middle of chaos. This time it’s Luna’s turn to be dragged into the mess and tbh, the whole “my sister is maybe a suspect” angle worked for me. Messy, stressful but good.
Meanwhile, Vera and Bent are dealing with a triple homicide at a cabin that just so happens to be owned by one of the richest men in the country.
I liked the plot, the twists, the shady characters ... the whole “can we trust any of these witnesses” vibe was strong. And Vera’s dynamic with Bent? This time it felt more real. Less “do I like him?” and more "okay yeah, this dude is redeeming himself, i guess?"
Overall: a good mystery, lots of drama, some good Vera/Bent moments, and enough messy chaos to keep me flipping pages fast.
4.5* from me ^^
Now… this is probably my favorite book in the Vera Boyett series so far. It felt a bit more balanced than the other 2: we had drama, murders (yep... lots of them) and a few sprinkles of romance too.
Ofc Vera’s family is back in the middle of chaos. This time it’s Luna’s turn to be dragged into the mess and tbh, the whole “my sister is maybe a suspect” angle worked for me. Messy, stressful but good.
Meanwhile, Vera and Bent are dealing with a triple homicide at a cabin that just so happens to be owned by one of the richest men in the country.
I liked the plot, the twists, the shady characters ... the whole “can we trust any of these witnesses” vibe was strong. And Vera’s dynamic with Bent? This time it felt more real. Less “do I like him?” and more "okay yeah, this dude is redeeming himself, i guess?"
Overall: a good mystery, lots of drama, some good Vera/Bent moments, and enough messy chaos to keep me flipping pages fast.
4.5* from me ^^
December 9, 2025
Wild Party Gone Wrong or Targeted Murder
Valeri Erwin, Charles Wilton’s assistant, arrives on his estate for work on Monday morning. None of the servants is there, but they are all off. The entire house is empty. She looks out back where the UTVs are parked. Wilton’s is missing. He must be at the remote cabin. She drives there. Once there, she notices that the front door is ajar. She hears sounds from within the cabin. She hopes that they are not in the throes of passion. She opens the door and sees a wolf with blood around its mouth. It runs out the back. She goes further in and finds a man face down behind the sofa. It is not Thomas. One arm is mangled where the wolf had eaten. She goes into the kitchen and finds a woman, face up and lying in a pool of blood. It wasn't Alicia, Wilton’s wife. She checks the patio and finds Thomas floating in the hot tub. She checks, and he is dead. Now, she spots Alicia's body on the stairs leading to a grassy area. With these quadruple murders, the story starts.
Two main storylines make up this novel. The first thread is the investigation into the quadruple murders. The first break was that Alicia was still alive, even though she spent most of the novel in a coma. The death toll during the investigation does reach four. The second thread starts when Vera Boyett’s youngest sister comes home from buying some paint, and she discovers her mother-in-law, Jackie, dead at the foot of the stairs. They had been finishing the nursery's preparations. Regarding difficulties, all four of Wilton’s employees had a motive and appeared not entirely truthful. It isn't easy to find out what happened when they are not told the facts. Jackie’s sister wants a thorough investigation into her sister’s death by a Boyett sister. She has retained a lawyer to ensure the investigation is comprehensive. Additionally, Luna has a receipt for the paint purchase that seriously contradicts her timeline of events that morning. Most chapters were narrated by protagonists, Vera Boyett and Sheriff Grey Benton. The novel's pace is good, and the main storyline is easy to follow. As both threads seemed like Gordian knots, I was piqued by their efforts to solve them.
There are two B-storyline threads. Both have appeared across all three novels in this series. The first is the deepening of the two protagonists’ relationship. It was like a dance with missteps along the way, just like real life. This thread allows readers to delve into the personal sides of these two characters. The second thread is the relationship among all of the Boyett sisters. The insight into how they protect and look out for each other is apparent, even though each has their own lives and problems. This aspect is especially true for Vera, who is working on a very complex investigation. This feature of the novel enhanced my enjoyment of it.
Only one aspect can cause some readers to stop reading in this novel. There are no intimate scenes. There is minimal vulgar language. One rude word does appear fairly often. There is noticeable use of impious language. Violence is described both after the fact and as it occurs. I did not find any references to the previous novels that needed further explanation. Overall, most readers should not have any problems reading this novel.
I really liked two aspects of this novel. First, the antagonists were very realistic, believable, and complex. Second, if this is the last in the series, the two B-storylines are at a point where there are no loose ends. The other extreme is that it appears to be the end of this series. The last time I wrote this, the author left a note on my review that he is working on the fourth book. I have read four previous books over three series. This author is one of my Must-Read authors. I highly recommend reading it. I rate it with five stars.
I received the free, pre-publication e-book version of this novel from Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley. My review is based solely on my own reading experience. Thank you, Thomas & Mercer, for the opportunity to read and review this novel early.
Valeri Erwin, Charles Wilton’s assistant, arrives on his estate for work on Monday morning. None of the servants is there, but they are all off. The entire house is empty. She looks out back where the UTVs are parked. Wilton’s is missing. He must be at the remote cabin. She drives there. Once there, she notices that the front door is ajar. She hears sounds from within the cabin. She hopes that they are not in the throes of passion. She opens the door and sees a wolf with blood around its mouth. It runs out the back. She goes further in and finds a man face down behind the sofa. It is not Thomas. One arm is mangled where the wolf had eaten. She goes into the kitchen and finds a woman, face up and lying in a pool of blood. It wasn't Alicia, Wilton’s wife. She checks the patio and finds Thomas floating in the hot tub. She checks, and he is dead. Now, she spots Alicia's body on the stairs leading to a grassy area. With these quadruple murders, the story starts.
Two main storylines make up this novel. The first thread is the investigation into the quadruple murders. The first break was that Alicia was still alive, even though she spent most of the novel in a coma. The death toll during the investigation does reach four. The second thread starts when Vera Boyett’s youngest sister comes home from buying some paint, and she discovers her mother-in-law, Jackie, dead at the foot of the stairs. They had been finishing the nursery's preparations. Regarding difficulties, all four of Wilton’s employees had a motive and appeared not entirely truthful. It isn't easy to find out what happened when they are not told the facts. Jackie’s sister wants a thorough investigation into her sister’s death by a Boyett sister. She has retained a lawyer to ensure the investigation is comprehensive. Additionally, Luna has a receipt for the paint purchase that seriously contradicts her timeline of events that morning. Most chapters were narrated by protagonists, Vera Boyett and Sheriff Grey Benton. The novel's pace is good, and the main storyline is easy to follow. As both threads seemed like Gordian knots, I was piqued by their efforts to solve them.
There are two B-storyline threads. Both have appeared across all three novels in this series. The first is the deepening of the two protagonists’ relationship. It was like a dance with missteps along the way, just like real life. This thread allows readers to delve into the personal sides of these two characters. The second thread is the relationship among all of the Boyett sisters. The insight into how they protect and look out for each other is apparent, even though each has their own lives and problems. This aspect is especially true for Vera, who is working on a very complex investigation. This feature of the novel enhanced my enjoyment of it.
Only one aspect can cause some readers to stop reading in this novel. There are no intimate scenes. There is minimal vulgar language. One rude word does appear fairly often. There is noticeable use of impious language. Violence is described both after the fact and as it occurs. I did not find any references to the previous novels that needed further explanation. Overall, most readers should not have any problems reading this novel.
I really liked two aspects of this novel. First, the antagonists were very realistic, believable, and complex. Second, if this is the last in the series, the two B-storylines are at a point where there are no loose ends. The other extreme is that it appears to be the end of this series. The last time I wrote this, the author left a note on my review that he is working on the fourth book. I have read four previous books over three series. This author is one of my Must-Read authors. I highly recommend reading it. I rate it with five stars.
I received the free, pre-publication e-book version of this novel from Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley. My review is based solely on my own reading experience. Thank you, Thomas & Mercer, for the opportunity to read and review this novel early.
December 2, 2025
Private investigator mystery.
This book starts out with a bang.
And keeps you on the edge. some secrets you just can't keep.
The Boyett series has been one of my favorites. this is the third book and what a wonderful way to wrap up a series.
We have murder mystery and suspense at its very best. webb writes the best books. this one will keep you on the edge.
Bodies are found in cabin in the woods.A mystery. how everyone ended up dead.What really happened.
Can sheriff Bent and Vera.
Boyette, unravel this mystery before more deaths happen. they have their hands full with this case.
The story definitely has a lot of action going on.Will keep you on the edge of your seat, turning the pages deep into the night.
I loved everything about this story.
Debra Webb is my favorite mystery writer.
This book starts out with a bang.
And keeps you on the edge. some secrets you just can't keep.
The Boyett series has been one of my favorites. this is the third book and what a wonderful way to wrap up a series.
We have murder mystery and suspense at its very best. webb writes the best books. this one will keep you on the edge.
Bodies are found in cabin in the woods.A mystery. how everyone ended up dead.What really happened.
Can sheriff Bent and Vera.
Boyette, unravel this mystery before more deaths happen. they have their hands full with this case.
The story definitely has a lot of action going on.Will keep you on the edge of your seat, turning the pages deep into the night.
I loved everything about this story.
Debra Webb is my favorite mystery writer.
January 15, 2026
Read as a standalone, this story is actually the third in a series. For context, knowing that before reading the story may have changed my overall review.
Jumping right into the action with multiple dead bodies on one side of town, and a sister freaking out over her mother in laws dead body at the bottom of the stairs on the other- I’m with Vera in that I would absolutely volunteer to be with the bodies! Were quickly introduced to a full cast (again, maybe books 1&2 would’ve helped here) and just as quickly thrown into the first case. Having a close relationship with the sheriff might be the only saving grace for Vera’s sister- and she calls in the favor!
This book is a great book if you enjoy police procedural, sticky family drama, small town feel. The pacing was a little erratic for me, but I enjoyed it all the same. Thank you NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for this ALC!
Jumping right into the action with multiple dead bodies on one side of town, and a sister freaking out over her mother in laws dead body at the bottom of the stairs on the other- I’m with Vera in that I would absolutely volunteer to be with the bodies! Were quickly introduced to a full cast (again, maybe books 1&2 would’ve helped here) and just as quickly thrown into the first case. Having a close relationship with the sheriff might be the only saving grace for Vera’s sister- and she calls in the favor!
This book is a great book if you enjoy police procedural, sticky family drama, small town feel. The pacing was a little erratic for me, but I enjoyed it all the same. Thank you NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for this ALC!
January 6, 2026
Third book in the Vera Boyett series set in Fayetteville, Tennessee. Vera is investigating two separate cases, a triple homicide on a luxury cabin and the suspicious death of her pregnant sister's mother in law. Vera's romance with sheriff Benton blossoms giving their professional cooperation some extra push.
I like these characters a lot. Also both cases were very compelling and I could not wait to find out what had happened. The story is intense and there a some astonishing revelations, and a final twist I was not expecting.
I have a feeling that with this book we are saying goodbye to Vera. We leave her in a good place personally and professionally.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for a copy of this book.
I like these characters a lot. Also both cases were very compelling and I could not wait to find out what had happened. The story is intense and there a some astonishing revelations, and a final twist I was not expecting.
I have a feeling that with this book we are saying goodbye to Vera. We leave her in a good place personally and professionally.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for a copy of this book.
November 30, 2025
This thriller was packed with twist and conspiracies. The plot was fantastic and the characters never disappointed. This novel is the 3rd installment to a series. It held up great as a standalone but was understood more once I read the first 2. From jump I was invested. The story nabbed my attention and held it. I found myself guessing until the very end. That ended was fantasticly crafted. Definitely will be reading more from Debra Webb.
Thank you Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the eARC. This review is that of my own.
Thank you Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the eARC. This review is that of my own.
December 9, 2025
Thanks to Thomas & Mercer for gifted access via Netgalley. All opinions below are my own.
This one starts off right out of the gate with two unusual murder scenes. I was sucked in from the get go. I didn’t realize that it is the third in a series but don’t feel like I missed anything jumping in where I did. Vera is a great crime investigator and yet super likable and relatable and so is her sheriff boyfriend. I feel like too often we get the trope of miserable, broken small town cops. This was not that, this was small town vibes with big town crimes. Haha!
Each crime was solved with slow methodical investigation so I wouldn’t expect a pulse pounding thriller going in. But there were some good twists along the way. I will definitely be going back to read the other books in this series.
This one starts off right out of the gate with two unusual murder scenes. I was sucked in from the get go. I didn’t realize that it is the third in a series but don’t feel like I missed anything jumping in where I did. Vera is a great crime investigator and yet super likable and relatable and so is her sheriff boyfriend. I feel like too often we get the trope of miserable, broken small town cops. This was not that, this was small town vibes with big town crimes. Haha!
Each crime was solved with slow methodical investigation so I wouldn’t expect a pulse pounding thriller going in. But there were some good twists along the way. I will definitely be going back to read the other books in this series.
October 23, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this third installment in the Vera Boyett series! I’ve read the previous two in the past and was ready and excited to dive back into the storyline. Webb did a great job at keeping you guessing as to who the murderer was in two separate crimes and both twists surprised me!
Each book could be read as a standalone, but I absolutely recommend reading the whole series! Hoping for future installments.
I really enjoyed this third installment in the Vera Boyett series! I’ve read the previous two in the past and was ready and excited to dive back into the storyline. Webb did a great job at keeping you guessing as to who the murderer was in two separate crimes and both twists surprised me!
Each book could be read as a standalone, but I absolutely recommend reading the whole series! Hoping for future installments.
December 5, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of Secrets You Can’t Keep by Debra Webb in exchange for an honest review.
This thriller didn’t grip me like I hoped it would. For a story that starts off with so many kills I expected it to feel faster paced and more action packed, but as the murders happened before the story started I feel like it lacked that.
I couldn’t connect to these characters and found them dislike-able. I wasn’t aware until starting this book that it was part of a series but I won’t be going back and continuing.
Unfortunately this thriller was a miss for me.
This thriller didn’t grip me like I hoped it would. For a story that starts off with so many kills I expected it to feel faster paced and more action packed, but as the murders happened before the story started I feel like it lacked that.
I couldn’t connect to these characters and found them dislike-able. I wasn’t aware until starting this book that it was part of a series but I won’t be going back and continuing.
Unfortunately this thriller was a miss for me.
December 2, 2025
This is the 3rd book in the series. I was not lost, having not read the other two books. I recently found Debra Webb and love all the ones I've read so far. Elise Arsenault is the narrator for this audiobook. I base a good narrator on how they can perform the opposite sex characters. She is able to voice the male characters without seeming like a girl deepening her voice.
Thank you to NetGalley, Debra Webb, and Brilliance Publishing for the opportunity to listen to this book.
Thank you to NetGalley, Debra Webb, and Brilliance Publishing for the opportunity to listen to this book.
November 26, 2025
Secrets You Can't Keep is the third in the series revolving around Vera Boyett and her family. The series captivates me because of its setting in the south. More than many others, it rings very true. This series is one of the few set in the US that I still read because I'm not overly fond of our police system here so to say that I find it readable and enjoyable is my full recommendation.
February 5, 2026
DNF @75%
The first 30% of this story was really interesting to me, and I really enjoyed the intrigued it had. Unfortunately, leading to the 60-75% of this was pretty tricky. There's a lot of pausing moments that don't make sense to me and a feeling that I'm at lost at. Thank you, Brilliance Audio, for the audiobook. 2⭐️
The first 30% of this story was really interesting to me, and I really enjoyed the intrigued it had. Unfortunately, leading to the 60-75% of this was pretty tricky. There's a lot of pausing moments that don't make sense to me and a feeling that I'm at lost at. Thank you, Brilliance Audio, for the audiobook. 2⭐️
December 25, 2025
Debra Webb's Secrets You Can't Keep, the third installment in the Vera Boyett series, delivers a gripping crime thriller that proves some truths refuse to stay buried—no matter how desperate we are to keep them hidden. Webb, a USA Today bestselling author with over 170 novels to her credit, has crafted a narrative that splits Vera's attention between two seemingly unrelated cases, each harboring secrets that threaten to destroy lives in Fayetteville, Tennessee.
The novel opens with a scene of brutal violence that immediately sets the stakes impossibly high. Three bodies lie scattered across Thomas Wilton's secluded cabin, and his wife Alicia clings to life in a coma. The victims include Wilton himself—a billionaire defense contractor with deep pockets and deeper secrets—along with two visitors whose presence at the cabin raises more questions than answers. For crime analyst Vera Boyett, this triple homicide represents the kind of high-profile case that will test every skill she's honed during her years with Memphis PD.
But before Vera can fully immerse herself in unraveling the Wilton murders, her personal life explodes. Her pregnant sister Luna calls in a panic: her difficult mother-in-law Jackie Andrews has died in a fall down the stairs in Luna's own home. The only problem? Luna was the only other person present, she has a well-documented contentious relationship with the deceased, and the circumstances surrounding the death look increasingly suspicious. As Geneva Fanning, Jackie's sister, begins circling with accusations and threats of legal action, Vera finds herself fighting a two-front war—seeking justice for murdered strangers while protecting her innocent sister from becoming a scapegoat.
A Protagonist Who Carries the Weight of Her Past
Webb's greatest strength in Secrets You Can't Keep lies in her complex protagonist. Vera Boyett is no fresh-faced detective stumbling through her first case. At forty, she's a woman shaped by hard choices and haunted by family secrets that would break lesser characters. The novel skillfully weaves in references to the Boyett sisters' traumatic past without overwhelming the current narrative. We learn they're already notorious in their small town for reasons that make Luna's current predicament even more precarious.
Vera's relationship with Sheriff Gray "Bent" Benton adds emotional depth without overshadowing the investigation. Their chemistry feels authentic—two people with complicated histories who've found their way back to each other. Webb resists the temptation to make their romance the centerpiece, instead using it to humanize Vera and show the personal stakes of her commitment to justice. The subplot involving their decision to finally move in together provides welcome breathing room between the novel's more intense sequences, though some readers may find the relationship discussions occasionally slow the pacing.
What makes Vera particularly compelling is her refusal to compartmentalize. She cannot simply focus on the Wilton case while her sister faces potential murder charges. Webb forces her protagonist to juggle competing loyalties, showing us a woman who's brilliant at reading crime scenes but struggles with the impossible task of protecting everyone she loves. This internal conflict drives much of the novel's tension and keeps Vera feeling refreshingly human rather than superhuman.
Two Cases That Mirror Each Other in Unexpected Ways
The brilliance of Webb's plotting reveals itself gradually as the two seemingly separate investigations begin to echo each other. Both the Wilton murders and Jackie's death center on marital discord, hidden affairs, and the dangerous lengths people will go to protect—or destroy—reputations. The Wilton cabin presents a scene of carnage suggesting sexual intrigue gone deadly wrong: naked bodies, evidence of drugs and alcohol, and a knife found suspiciously placed beneath the sole survivor. Meanwhile, Luna's situation appears straightforward until details emerge that paint a far more complicated picture of Jackie's final moments.
Webb demonstrates masterful control in how she parcels out information. The Wilton investigation unfolds through methodical police work—interviewing household staff, examining financial records, tracking down mysterious visitors. Vera discovers that Wilton's personal assistant Valeri Erwin harbors an unhealthy obsession with her dead employer, that his second wife Alicia had been sneaking off to mysterious meetings, and that his first wife's "accidental" death two years earlier might not have been accidental at all. Each revelation peels back another layer of the Wilton family's carefully constructed facade.
Simultaneously, the Luna subplot tightens like a noose. A hardware store receipt that should vindicate Luna instead raises new questions. Geneva Fanning's determination to see Luna blamed grows increasingly vicious. And Vera must confront the uncomfortable reality that in small towns, gossip and reputation can be as deadly as any weapon. Webb excels at showing how these dual narratives complement each other, with Vera's professional expertise in the Wilton case informing her personal investigation into Jackie's death.
The identification of victims Seth Parson and Sandy Owens opens up the mystery's scope, connecting seemingly random threads across state lines. Webb's inclusion of the investigative assistance from Vera's Memphis colleague Eric Jones adds authenticity to the procedural elements while demonstrating how modern law enforcement leverages personal networks and technology. The revelation that both Parson and Owens shared matching tattoos with Alicia Wilton—and that these romantic connections stretch back years—transforms the case from a random act of violence into something far more calculated.
The Strength and Weakness of Supporting Characters
The ensemble cast surrounding Vera provides both the novel's greatest pleasures and occasional frustrations. Luna emerges as genuinely sympathetic—a pregnant woman trapped in a nightmare scenario, her every attempt to clear herself seemingly making things worse. Webb wisely avoids making Luna helpless; instead, she's a capable woman undone by unfortunate timing and a vindictive accuser. The scenes between the three Boyett sisters—Vera, Luna, and mortician Eve—crackle with authentic sibling dynamics. Their shared history of trauma has forged bonds that make their fierce protection of one another completely believable.
Geneva Fanning makes for a deliciously despicable antagonist in the Luna storyline. Webb sketches her as a woman consumed by jealousy of her sister Jackie, using Luna as a convenient target for her displaced rage. The revelation of Geneva's own secrets and motivations adds welcome complexity to what could have been a one-dimensional villain. Similarly, the Wilton household staff—particularly Helen Carter, Valeri Erwin, and gardener Jose Martinez—provide a Greek chorus of observation about their employer's troubled marriage.
However, some secondary characters feel underdeveloped. Alicia Wilton spends most of the novel in a coma, which means we learn about her entirely through others' perspectives. While this creates useful ambiguity about her role in the murders, it also robs the character of dimension. We never fully understand what drove her or what kind of person she truly was beneath the allegations and innuendo. Similarly, Jerome Andrews, Luna's husband, appears too infrequently for us to fully grasp his position between his wife and his family. His absence during critical moments feels convenient for the plot rather than organic to his character.
The novel's treatment of Valeri Erwin particularly stands out. Webb paints her as deeply troubled—obsessed with her dead employer Thomas Wilton, checking out true crime books about murder for the first time in her life just weeks before the killings, behaving erratically when questioned. Yet Erwin ultimately proves to be more victim than villain, her odd behavior stemming from her complicated grief and loyalty rather than murderous intent. This complexity elevates the character beyond a simple red herring, though some readers may find the resolution of her subplot somewhat anticlimactic.
Where the Investigation Stumbles
While Secrets You Can't Keep delivers considerable suspense and several genuine surprises, it's not without flaws. The pacing occasionally sags in the middle section as Vera conducts repetitive interviews with the Wilton staff. Webb provides excessive detail about certain investigative dead ends—property appraisals, charitable donations in Wilton's will, business associates with no connection to the crimes—that pad the word count without advancing the plot. Readers invested primarily in the thriller elements may find themselves skimming through these more procedural passages.
The reveal of the killer's identity, while surprising, relies on a character who appears only briefly earlier in the novel. While Webb plants sufficient clues to make the revelation fair, some readers may feel the solution comes somewhat from left field rather than emerging organically from the narrative's central conflicts. The killer's motivation—revenge for a lover's death two years prior—proves compelling in the abstract but perhaps overcomplicates the emotional landscape. Similarly, their elaborate planning and execution feels almost too perfect until one small oversight provides the crucial break in the case.
The novel's treatment of violence deserves mention. Webb doesn't shy away from the brutality of the cabin murders, providing graphic details of stab wounds and the deteriorated condition of bodies. Readers sensitive to such content should approach with caution. However, Webb balances this violence with sensitivity in handling Jackie Andrews's death and Luna's pregnancy, showing she can modulate tone appropriately for different narrative threads.
Some plot conveniences strain credibility. The hardware store's cash register malfunction that initially casts doubt on Luna's timeline feels contrived, as does the perfection with which cell phone records eventually exonerate her. The revelation that Geneva was actually at Luna's house during Jackie's death requires readers to accept that she maintained this secret throughout her campaign against Luna—possible, but requiring a level of cold calculation that doesn't quite align with her otherwise impulsive character. Similarly, the killer's decision to confess everything in vivid detail during interrogation satisfies narrative closure but feels psychologically incomplete.
The Verdict: A Solid Addition to a Compelling Series
Secrets You Can't Keep succeeds more often than it stumbles, delivering a crime thriller that balances professional investigation with personal stakes. Webb's prose moves efficiently, never calling attention to itself but maintaining steady momentum. Her dialogue feels natural, particularly in the exchanges between Vera and Bent, where years of unspoken history color even mundane conversations. The Fayetteville, Tennessee setting comes alive through specific details—the hardware store with the gossiping clerk, the funeral home where Eve works, the farm where the Boyett sisters' traumatic past unfolded.
The novel's exploration of secrets—how we keep them, what we'll do to protect them, and the collateral damage they inflict—provides thematic coherence across both storylines. Webb suggests that secrets rarely stay buried permanently and that the energy expended in concealment often exceeds the cost of truth. Vera's professional success in uncovering the Wilton murders contrasts powerfully with her personal desperation to protect Luna, highlighting the different standards we apply to strangers versus loved ones.
For readers new to the Vera Boyett series, Secrets You Can't Keep works reasonably well as a standalone, though references to past Boyett family tragedies will resonate more deeply for those who've read Deeper Than the Dead and Closer Than You Know. Webb provides sufficient context without overwhelming new readers with backstory. However, the series is best experienced in order to fully appreciate Vera's character arc and the complex relationships between the Boyett sisters.
The novel's conclusion ties up the Wilton investigation satisfactorily while positioning Vera and Bent's relationship for future development. The Luna subplot resolves perhaps too neatly, with all accusations withdrawn and relationships apparently undamaged—a slight note of implausibility in an otherwise grounded narrative. Webb hints at future challenges without ending on a cliffhanger, respecting readers who want closure while leaving room for the series to continue.
The novel opens with a scene of brutal violence that immediately sets the stakes impossibly high. Three bodies lie scattered across Thomas Wilton's secluded cabin, and his wife Alicia clings to life in a coma. The victims include Wilton himself—a billionaire defense contractor with deep pockets and deeper secrets—along with two visitors whose presence at the cabin raises more questions than answers. For crime analyst Vera Boyett, this triple homicide represents the kind of high-profile case that will test every skill she's honed during her years with Memphis PD.
But before Vera can fully immerse herself in unraveling the Wilton murders, her personal life explodes. Her pregnant sister Luna calls in a panic: her difficult mother-in-law Jackie Andrews has died in a fall down the stairs in Luna's own home. The only problem? Luna was the only other person present, she has a well-documented contentious relationship with the deceased, and the circumstances surrounding the death look increasingly suspicious. As Geneva Fanning, Jackie's sister, begins circling with accusations and threats of legal action, Vera finds herself fighting a two-front war—seeking justice for murdered strangers while protecting her innocent sister from becoming a scapegoat.
A Protagonist Who Carries the Weight of Her Past
Webb's greatest strength in Secrets You Can't Keep lies in her complex protagonist. Vera Boyett is no fresh-faced detective stumbling through her first case. At forty, she's a woman shaped by hard choices and haunted by family secrets that would break lesser characters. The novel skillfully weaves in references to the Boyett sisters' traumatic past without overwhelming the current narrative. We learn they're already notorious in their small town for reasons that make Luna's current predicament even more precarious.
Vera's relationship with Sheriff Gray "Bent" Benton adds emotional depth without overshadowing the investigation. Their chemistry feels authentic—two people with complicated histories who've found their way back to each other. Webb resists the temptation to make their romance the centerpiece, instead using it to humanize Vera and show the personal stakes of her commitment to justice. The subplot involving their decision to finally move in together provides welcome breathing room between the novel's more intense sequences, though some readers may find the relationship discussions occasionally slow the pacing.
What makes Vera particularly compelling is her refusal to compartmentalize. She cannot simply focus on the Wilton case while her sister faces potential murder charges. Webb forces her protagonist to juggle competing loyalties, showing us a woman who's brilliant at reading crime scenes but struggles with the impossible task of protecting everyone she loves. This internal conflict drives much of the novel's tension and keeps Vera feeling refreshingly human rather than superhuman.
Two Cases That Mirror Each Other in Unexpected Ways
The brilliance of Webb's plotting reveals itself gradually as the two seemingly separate investigations begin to echo each other. Both the Wilton murders and Jackie's death center on marital discord, hidden affairs, and the dangerous lengths people will go to protect—or destroy—reputations. The Wilton cabin presents a scene of carnage suggesting sexual intrigue gone deadly wrong: naked bodies, evidence of drugs and alcohol, and a knife found suspiciously placed beneath the sole survivor. Meanwhile, Luna's situation appears straightforward until details emerge that paint a far more complicated picture of Jackie's final moments.
Webb demonstrates masterful control in how she parcels out information. The Wilton investigation unfolds through methodical police work—interviewing household staff, examining financial records, tracking down mysterious visitors. Vera discovers that Wilton's personal assistant Valeri Erwin harbors an unhealthy obsession with her dead employer, that his second wife Alicia had been sneaking off to mysterious meetings, and that his first wife's "accidental" death two years earlier might not have been accidental at all. Each revelation peels back another layer of the Wilton family's carefully constructed facade.
Simultaneously, the Luna subplot tightens like a noose. A hardware store receipt that should vindicate Luna instead raises new questions. Geneva Fanning's determination to see Luna blamed grows increasingly vicious. And Vera must confront the uncomfortable reality that in small towns, gossip and reputation can be as deadly as any weapon. Webb excels at showing how these dual narratives complement each other, with Vera's professional expertise in the Wilton case informing her personal investigation into Jackie's death.
The identification of victims Seth Parson and Sandy Owens opens up the mystery's scope, connecting seemingly random threads across state lines. Webb's inclusion of the investigative assistance from Vera's Memphis colleague Eric Jones adds authenticity to the procedural elements while demonstrating how modern law enforcement leverages personal networks and technology. The revelation that both Parson and Owens shared matching tattoos with Alicia Wilton—and that these romantic connections stretch back years—transforms the case from a random act of violence into something far more calculated.
The Strength and Weakness of Supporting Characters
The ensemble cast surrounding Vera provides both the novel's greatest pleasures and occasional frustrations. Luna emerges as genuinely sympathetic—a pregnant woman trapped in a nightmare scenario, her every attempt to clear herself seemingly making things worse. Webb wisely avoids making Luna helpless; instead, she's a capable woman undone by unfortunate timing and a vindictive accuser. The scenes between the three Boyett sisters—Vera, Luna, and mortician Eve—crackle with authentic sibling dynamics. Their shared history of trauma has forged bonds that make their fierce protection of one another completely believable.
Geneva Fanning makes for a deliciously despicable antagonist in the Luna storyline. Webb sketches her as a woman consumed by jealousy of her sister Jackie, using Luna as a convenient target for her displaced rage. The revelation of Geneva's own secrets and motivations adds welcome complexity to what could have been a one-dimensional villain. Similarly, the Wilton household staff—particularly Helen Carter, Valeri Erwin, and gardener Jose Martinez—provide a Greek chorus of observation about their employer's troubled marriage.
However, some secondary characters feel underdeveloped. Alicia Wilton spends most of the novel in a coma, which means we learn about her entirely through others' perspectives. While this creates useful ambiguity about her role in the murders, it also robs the character of dimension. We never fully understand what drove her or what kind of person she truly was beneath the allegations and innuendo. Similarly, Jerome Andrews, Luna's husband, appears too infrequently for us to fully grasp his position between his wife and his family. His absence during critical moments feels convenient for the plot rather than organic to his character.
The novel's treatment of Valeri Erwin particularly stands out. Webb paints her as deeply troubled—obsessed with her dead employer Thomas Wilton, checking out true crime books about murder for the first time in her life just weeks before the killings, behaving erratically when questioned. Yet Erwin ultimately proves to be more victim than villain, her odd behavior stemming from her complicated grief and loyalty rather than murderous intent. This complexity elevates the character beyond a simple red herring, though some readers may find the resolution of her subplot somewhat anticlimactic.
Where the Investigation Stumbles
While Secrets You Can't Keep delivers considerable suspense and several genuine surprises, it's not without flaws. The pacing occasionally sags in the middle section as Vera conducts repetitive interviews with the Wilton staff. Webb provides excessive detail about certain investigative dead ends—property appraisals, charitable donations in Wilton's will, business associates with no connection to the crimes—that pad the word count without advancing the plot. Readers invested primarily in the thriller elements may find themselves skimming through these more procedural passages.
The reveal of the killer's identity, while surprising, relies on a character who appears only briefly earlier in the novel. While Webb plants sufficient clues to make the revelation fair, some readers may feel the solution comes somewhat from left field rather than emerging organically from the narrative's central conflicts. The killer's motivation—revenge for a lover's death two years prior—proves compelling in the abstract but perhaps overcomplicates the emotional landscape. Similarly, their elaborate planning and execution feels almost too perfect until one small oversight provides the crucial break in the case.
The novel's treatment of violence deserves mention. Webb doesn't shy away from the brutality of the cabin murders, providing graphic details of stab wounds and the deteriorated condition of bodies. Readers sensitive to such content should approach with caution. However, Webb balances this violence with sensitivity in handling Jackie Andrews's death and Luna's pregnancy, showing she can modulate tone appropriately for different narrative threads.
Some plot conveniences strain credibility. The hardware store's cash register malfunction that initially casts doubt on Luna's timeline feels contrived, as does the perfection with which cell phone records eventually exonerate her. The revelation that Geneva was actually at Luna's house during Jackie's death requires readers to accept that she maintained this secret throughout her campaign against Luna—possible, but requiring a level of cold calculation that doesn't quite align with her otherwise impulsive character. Similarly, the killer's decision to confess everything in vivid detail during interrogation satisfies narrative closure but feels psychologically incomplete.
The Verdict: A Solid Addition to a Compelling Series
Secrets You Can't Keep succeeds more often than it stumbles, delivering a crime thriller that balances professional investigation with personal stakes. Webb's prose moves efficiently, never calling attention to itself but maintaining steady momentum. Her dialogue feels natural, particularly in the exchanges between Vera and Bent, where years of unspoken history color even mundane conversations. The Fayetteville, Tennessee setting comes alive through specific details—the hardware store with the gossiping clerk, the funeral home where Eve works, the farm where the Boyett sisters' traumatic past unfolded.
The novel's exploration of secrets—how we keep them, what we'll do to protect them, and the collateral damage they inflict—provides thematic coherence across both storylines. Webb suggests that secrets rarely stay buried permanently and that the energy expended in concealment often exceeds the cost of truth. Vera's professional success in uncovering the Wilton murders contrasts powerfully with her personal desperation to protect Luna, highlighting the different standards we apply to strangers versus loved ones.
For readers new to the Vera Boyett series, Secrets You Can't Keep works reasonably well as a standalone, though references to past Boyett family tragedies will resonate more deeply for those who've read Deeper Than the Dead and Closer Than You Know. Webb provides sufficient context without overwhelming new readers with backstory. However, the series is best experienced in order to fully appreciate Vera's character arc and the complex relationships between the Boyett sisters.
The novel's conclusion ties up the Wilton investigation satisfactorily while positioning Vera and Bent's relationship for future development. The Luna subplot resolves perhaps too neatly, with all accusations withdrawn and relationships apparently undamaged—a slight note of implausibility in an otherwise grounded narrative. Webb hints at future challenges without ending on a cliffhanger, respecting readers who want closure while leaving room for the series to continue.
January 13, 2026
Unfortunately I think I’ve consumed too much of the Boyett sisters. I forgot I was reading a thriller at multiple points of this story. I kept thinking “what could happen to these sisters next”. I don’t feel like the ended was satisfying of this investigation. Maybe don’t read all three in a row like I did.
July 22, 2025
I’d like to thank NetGalley and the publishers for sending me an arc of this book!
Four bodies are found in a cabin. Upon first glance, it appears to be a party gone wrong. However, after discovering that one of the supposed victims might have survived, the picture gets messier.
In another part of town, family drama involving one of the Boyett sisters takes a twisted turn resulting in tragedy.
Caught in the middle of both is criminal analyst Vera Boyett. Can she help Sheriff Benton solve his triple homicide while also clearing her sister’s name?
I love a good crime thriller, and this one delivered on everything: conspiracies, red herrings, twists, and even a little romance.
Overall, a good read! This was my first introduction to the Vera Boyett series and I’ll be going back to read the others!
Four bodies are found in a cabin. Upon first glance, it appears to be a party gone wrong. However, after discovering that one of the supposed victims might have survived, the picture gets messier.
In another part of town, family drama involving one of the Boyett sisters takes a twisted turn resulting in tragedy.
Caught in the middle of both is criminal analyst Vera Boyett. Can she help Sheriff Benton solve his triple homicide while also clearing her sister’s name?
I love a good crime thriller, and this one delivered on everything: conspiracies, red herrings, twists, and even a little romance.
Overall, a good read! This was my first introduction to the Vera Boyett series and I’ll be going back to read the others!
July 23, 2025
5/5 ⭐️ ARC - NetGalley
Loved this so much ! I never thought I’d be that into a murder mystery, but I am pleasantly surprised !
Bent, Vera, Alicia, Luna, such great characters - the dynamic between Bent and Vera was so entertaining and kept you wanting more, working together and having their cute little moments
Alicia - pulling through against all odds !
I was on the edge of my seat trying to figure out who did it the whole way through, which is amazing as I normally figure things out within a storyline pretty quick.
Would definitely read more by this author!
Loved this so much ! I never thought I’d be that into a murder mystery, but I am pleasantly surprised !
Bent, Vera, Alicia, Luna, such great characters - the dynamic between Bent and Vera was so entertaining and kept you wanting more, working together and having their cute little moments
Alicia - pulling through against all odds !
I was on the edge of my seat trying to figure out who did it the whole way through, which is amazing as I normally figure things out within a storyline pretty quick.
Would definitely read more by this author!
January 6, 2026
This book felt like it was never going to end 😓 for me there were too many storylines and too much happening for me to really get into it. I zoned out a lot but kept reading because I wanted to find out who the murderers were.
January 19, 2026
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Mystery and Suspense
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Secrets You Can't Keep is the third installment in author Debra Webb's Vera Boyett series. The book introduces the two storylines: one of the multiple murders at the cabin of the area’s local billionaire and the second, the death of the mother-in-law of Vera’s little sister, Luna. Vera, now a Crime Scene Analyst Consultant in Tennessee, works with Sheriff Bent on the murder investigation of Thomas Wilton and two of his guests. The story is told through the eyes of Vera, Bent, Luna, and a fourth character I won't spoil.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Mystery and Suspense
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Secrets You Can't Keep is the third installment in author Debra Webb's Vera Boyett series. The book introduces the two storylines: one of the multiple murders at the cabin of the area’s local billionaire and the second, the death of the mother-in-law of Vera’s little sister, Luna. Vera, now a Crime Scene Analyst Consultant in Tennessee, works with Sheriff Bent on the murder investigation of Thomas Wilton and two of his guests. The story is told through the eyes of Vera, Bent, Luna, and a fourth character I won't spoil.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
December 14, 2025
A serious contender for the worst book I've read this year, up there with Things That Break Us by Michelle Heard.
Book 3 in this series shows that Vera and Bent (what a nickname - don't Americans know what it means?) have finally made it into bed, as 1) clearly they're both rather addled and 2) they manage to talk about sex in the middle of the absolutely not believable and not exciting case. This was so bad a book that at the end I returned it for a refund. There's no way I was wasting money on this.
If I didn't know, I'd have said this was a book by a first-time author. It was a 'diet' mystery and police procedural. The Valeri character was dodgy from the start and how she hadn't been arrested or at least questioned under caution, is beyond me, and apparently beyond Vera and Bent too. Were they giving her rope to hang herself with? Nope, they were risking her doing a bunk and getting away with her part in more than one death. Skilled investigator extraordinaire that Vera was meant to be, she never pushed beyond a point, even when Valeri's facial expressions and body language absolutely screamed she was implicated.
The duo had 4 leads, 4 very obviously dodgy leads, and the discovery of the main deceased's will should've meant that they got hauled in for questioning, but nope, that could wait. 6 innocents - including an unborn baby - got killed in this story, but the tale progressed like a slow moving trickle in a gutter. There was no urgency, no sense of danger or excitement, and even when Valeri was classed as a psychopath, they didn't move quickly on her. What happened to a Miranda? What happened to saying a chat was off the record if no Miranda was stated? Would her roomie's death be reopened? Would she get away with everything and plead insanity? What happened to the survivor? What happened to the 2nd, or was it, 3rd will? Who got what? 3 of the bad guys were so implausible that they were clearly just there as filler. The actual-actual baddie appeared a few pages before the end, I kid you not, making 5 actual bad guys, of which all 5 were caricatures.
The Jackie death thing was yet more filler, although she wasn't an innocent in this tale. That whole arc was just totally inorganic, especially the till receipt thing. The mention of the reporter, Nolan's, mum was, yes, yet more filler. The fact that Valeri's motivations weren't actually discussed felt like an anticlimactic cop out, when I'd been expecting a 'If it wasn't for you pesky kids...', Scooby Doo style confession. The Geneva thing was, yes, you've guessed, yet more filler. The dead people were so much filler. There needed to be a psychologist observing Valeri in interview to make this seem at least a little plausible. At the end of the book, she still hadn't been arrested and she and Vera were playing 'you give me something, then I'll give you something, and then you give me something else, and I'll give you something else, and then...' I think you get it. Valeri needed her moment in the sun, confessing all, doing a big 'Muhahahahah!!!' because she was one utter sicko. Arrrgggghhh!!!!!!!!! Yes, this book really was this bad.
Book 3 in this series shows that Vera and Bent (what a nickname - don't Americans know what it means?) have finally made it into bed, as 1) clearly they're both rather addled and 2) they manage to talk about sex in the middle of the absolutely not believable and not exciting case. This was so bad a book that at the end I returned it for a refund. There's no way I was wasting money on this.
If I didn't know, I'd have said this was a book by a first-time author. It was a 'diet' mystery and police procedural. The Valeri character was dodgy from the start and how she hadn't been arrested or at least questioned under caution, is beyond me, and apparently beyond Vera and Bent too. Were they giving her rope to hang herself with? Nope, they were risking her doing a bunk and getting away with her part in more than one death. Skilled investigator extraordinaire that Vera was meant to be, she never pushed beyond a point, even when Valeri's facial expressions and body language absolutely screamed she was implicated.
The duo had 4 leads, 4 very obviously dodgy leads, and the discovery of the main deceased's will should've meant that they got hauled in for questioning, but nope, that could wait. 6 innocents - including an unborn baby - got killed in this story, but the tale progressed like a slow moving trickle in a gutter. There was no urgency, no sense of danger or excitement, and even when Valeri was classed as a psychopath, they didn't move quickly on her. What happened to a Miranda? What happened to saying a chat was off the record if no Miranda was stated? Would her roomie's death be reopened? Would she get away with everything and plead insanity? What happened to the survivor? What happened to the 2nd, or was it, 3rd will? Who got what? 3 of the bad guys were so implausible that they were clearly just there as filler. The actual-actual baddie appeared a few pages before the end, I kid you not, making 5 actual bad guys, of which all 5 were caricatures.
The Jackie death thing was yet more filler, although she wasn't an innocent in this tale. That whole arc was just totally inorganic, especially the till receipt thing. The mention of the reporter, Nolan's, mum was, yes, yet more filler. The fact that Valeri's motivations weren't actually discussed felt like an anticlimactic cop out, when I'd been expecting a 'If it wasn't for you pesky kids...', Scooby Doo style confession. The Geneva thing was, yes, you've guessed, yet more filler. The dead people were so much filler. There needed to be a psychologist observing Valeri in interview to make this seem at least a little plausible. At the end of the book, she still hadn't been arrested and she and Vera were playing 'you give me something, then I'll give you something, and then you give me something else, and I'll give you something else, and then...' I think you get it. Valeri needed her moment in the sun, confessing all, doing a big 'Muhahahahah!!!' because she was one utter sicko. Arrrgggghhh!!!!!!!!! Yes, this book really was this bad.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2025
Secrets You Can't Keep by Debra Webb is a highly recommended procedural and the third book in the series featuring Vera Boyett, following Deeper Than the Dead and Closer Than You Know. It can be enjoyed as a standalone novel.
Valeri Edwin, personal assistant to wealthy business man Thomas Wilton, arrived at his estate before an important phone call and neither Wilton nor his second wife Alicia were there. As Valeri searched, she found them murdered along with two other people at a cabin on the property. When Sheriff Gray “Bent” Benton arrived it is discovered that Alicia is still barely alive. Bent calls in crime analyst Vera Boyett to examine the crime scene for clues he and his team may have missed.
At the same time a horrible accident has happened at Vera's pregnant sister Luna's house where she was finishing preparing the nursery with her mother-in-law. Luna left for more paint and when she returned her mother-in-law was dead at the foot of the stairs. She immediately called Vera, who then contacted Bent. It looks like Luna is the perpetrator, but knowing the two, that seems highly unlikely, so Vera needs to uncover what really happened.
This well-written procedural presents two interesting cases to investigate and solve. The Wilton triple murder case provides a complicated tangled case to solve. Webb does give readers a chapter early on letting them know the characters that clearly are involved, but then provides all manner of other clues and red herrings pointing to others being responsible. While waiting for Alicia to come out of a coma and hopefully provide the clue they need, the largest hurdle to overcome is figuring out all the lies and subterfuge along the way which are slowing down Bent and Vera from solving the Wilton case.
Luna's case is more nuanced. From all initial appearances, Luna may be guilty. Her mother-in-law was a real shrew, and her sister is on the warpath to charge Luna. Vera knows Luna, as well as all the others involved, and understands that something else is going on and she needs to find the clues and facts to prove this. There is no clue or chapter suggesting what happened on this case, leaving readers in total suspense.
The character development and the relationship between the characters provides strong reasons to read this book and series. Vera and Bent's professional and personal relationship is strong and continues to develop. Vera's relationship with her sisters, Eve and Luna also continues to grow.
Secrets You Can't Keep is a great choice for those who enjoy procedurals. Thanks to Thomas & Mercer for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2025/1...
Valeri Edwin, personal assistant to wealthy business man Thomas Wilton, arrived at his estate before an important phone call and neither Wilton nor his second wife Alicia were there. As Valeri searched, she found them murdered along with two other people at a cabin on the property. When Sheriff Gray “Bent” Benton arrived it is discovered that Alicia is still barely alive. Bent calls in crime analyst Vera Boyett to examine the crime scene for clues he and his team may have missed.
At the same time a horrible accident has happened at Vera's pregnant sister Luna's house where she was finishing preparing the nursery with her mother-in-law. Luna left for more paint and when she returned her mother-in-law was dead at the foot of the stairs. She immediately called Vera, who then contacted Bent. It looks like Luna is the perpetrator, but knowing the two, that seems highly unlikely, so Vera needs to uncover what really happened.
This well-written procedural presents two interesting cases to investigate and solve. The Wilton triple murder case provides a complicated tangled case to solve. Webb does give readers a chapter early on letting them know the characters that clearly are involved, but then provides all manner of other clues and red herrings pointing to others being responsible. While waiting for Alicia to come out of a coma and hopefully provide the clue they need, the largest hurdle to overcome is figuring out all the lies and subterfuge along the way which are slowing down Bent and Vera from solving the Wilton case.
Luna's case is more nuanced. From all initial appearances, Luna may be guilty. Her mother-in-law was a real shrew, and her sister is on the warpath to charge Luna. Vera knows Luna, as well as all the others involved, and understands that something else is going on and she needs to find the clues and facts to prove this. There is no clue or chapter suggesting what happened on this case, leaving readers in total suspense.
The character development and the relationship between the characters provides strong reasons to read this book and series. Vera and Bent's professional and personal relationship is strong and continues to develop. Vera's relationship with her sisters, Eve and Luna also continues to grow.
Secrets You Can't Keep is a great choice for those who enjoy procedurals. Thanks to Thomas & Mercer for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2025/1...
September 9, 2025
A Gripping Thriller with Depth and Heart.
Strong characterizations and a compelling plot make this well-written novel a true treat to read, another stellar installment in a series that continues to surprise and satisfy. It’s layered and complex without ever becoming confusing, and the tension is utterly enticing.
This time, criminal analyst Vera and Sheriff Gray “Bent” Benton are drawn into a chilling investigation: a secluded cabin in the Tennessee woods, three dead, one clinging to life, and no valuables missing. The property belongs to one of the wealthiest men in the country, adding a layer of mystery to an already baffling scene.
But the stakes rise even higher when Vera’s own family is pulled into a separate nightmare. Her sister Luna, pregnant and preparing a nursery with her mother-in-law, steps out for paint—only to return and find her mother-in-law dead at the bottom of the stairs. Luna seems an unlikely suspect, yet every new detail casts a darker shadow. Desperate to protect her sister, Vera must untangle a web of secrets that threatens to destroy everything she holds dear.
This thriller hooked me from the very first page. With so many twists and turns, I genuinely didn’t know what was coming next—and I loved that. The pacing is sharp, the emotional stakes are high, and the dual investigations keep the tension taut throughout.
I especially appreciate that Webb doesn’t rehash previous books. As someone who’s followed the series, I find it refreshing that each installment stands strong on its own. That said, I’d still recommend starting from the beginning to fully appreciate the character arcs and subtle callbacks.
This story has it all: conspiracies, emotional depth, unexpected twists, and just the right touch of romance. A must-read for fans of smart, character-driven thrillers...Release on Dec 9.
Thank you, NetGalley and Publisher, for the eARC.
Strong characterizations and a compelling plot make this well-written novel a true treat to read, another stellar installment in a series that continues to surprise and satisfy. It’s layered and complex without ever becoming confusing, and the tension is utterly enticing.
This time, criminal analyst Vera and Sheriff Gray “Bent” Benton are drawn into a chilling investigation: a secluded cabin in the Tennessee woods, three dead, one clinging to life, and no valuables missing. The property belongs to one of the wealthiest men in the country, adding a layer of mystery to an already baffling scene.
But the stakes rise even higher when Vera’s own family is pulled into a separate nightmare. Her sister Luna, pregnant and preparing a nursery with her mother-in-law, steps out for paint—only to return and find her mother-in-law dead at the bottom of the stairs. Luna seems an unlikely suspect, yet every new detail casts a darker shadow. Desperate to protect her sister, Vera must untangle a web of secrets that threatens to destroy everything she holds dear.
This thriller hooked me from the very first page. With so many twists and turns, I genuinely didn’t know what was coming next—and I loved that. The pacing is sharp, the emotional stakes are high, and the dual investigations keep the tension taut throughout.
I especially appreciate that Webb doesn’t rehash previous books. As someone who’s followed the series, I find it refreshing that each installment stands strong on its own. That said, I’d still recommend starting from the beginning to fully appreciate the character arcs and subtle callbacks.
This story has it all: conspiracies, emotional depth, unexpected twists, and just the right touch of romance. A must-read for fans of smart, character-driven thrillers...Release on Dec 9.
Thank you, NetGalley and Publisher, for the eARC.
December 5, 2025
★★★★
Sheriff Benton (Bent) is called to one hell of a crime scene: three dead, one clinging to life, all discovered in a remote cabin deep in the woods. There’s no motive, no signs of forced entry, and every indication that a wild party took a deadly turn. To make matters worse, the cabin belongs to a wealthy, well-connected entrepreneur, someone whose death draws immediate attention and heavy pressure from local officials.
Bent knows he’ll need help from Vera Boyett, the local crime analyst, if he has any hope of solving this case. But Vera has problems of her own. Her pregnant younger sister, Luna, might have killed someone, or so the evidence suggests. Vera refuses to believe it, but if Luna didn’t do it, then what did actually happen?
My favorite crime-solving duo is back: Bent & Vera. Despite the chaos swirling around them, they stay surprisingly drama free as a couple, and that’s exactly how I like my fictional partners.
Bent’s case had me completely stumped until a new POV dropped in and finally got the gears turning. Everyone involved seemed to be hiding something, even the victims, but I still couldn’t quite see how all the pieces fit together.
Meanwhile, Vera is neck deep in Luna and her husband Jerome’s family mess. I can’t say I admire anyone in that camp, but I am glad we finally learned more about that side of the family. Jerome always felt a little too squeaky clean in previous installments (which is probably why I suspected him a few times), and I am relieved to see things aren’t as shiny as he’d like you to believe.
I did struggle with the pacing at times; it felt different from the first two books. There’s also a fairly large cast to keep track of. I am not sure if this was marketed as a standalone, but I’d recommend reading the first two books to fully appreciate the Boyett sisters’ history.
Thank you to NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer, and Debra Webb for the review copy. All opinions are my own.
Sheriff Benton (Bent) is called to one hell of a crime scene: three dead, one clinging to life, all discovered in a remote cabin deep in the woods. There’s no motive, no signs of forced entry, and every indication that a wild party took a deadly turn. To make matters worse, the cabin belongs to a wealthy, well-connected entrepreneur, someone whose death draws immediate attention and heavy pressure from local officials.
Bent knows he’ll need help from Vera Boyett, the local crime analyst, if he has any hope of solving this case. But Vera has problems of her own. Her pregnant younger sister, Luna, might have killed someone, or so the evidence suggests. Vera refuses to believe it, but if Luna didn’t do it, then what did actually happen?
My favorite crime-solving duo is back: Bent & Vera. Despite the chaos swirling around them, they stay surprisingly drama free as a couple, and that’s exactly how I like my fictional partners.
Bent’s case had me completely stumped until a new POV dropped in and finally got the gears turning. Everyone involved seemed to be hiding something, even the victims, but I still couldn’t quite see how all the pieces fit together.
Meanwhile, Vera is neck deep in Luna and her husband Jerome’s family mess. I can’t say I admire anyone in that camp, but I am glad we finally learned more about that side of the family. Jerome always felt a little too squeaky clean in previous installments (which is probably why I suspected him a few times), and I am relieved to see things aren’t as shiny as he’d like you to believe.
I did struggle with the pacing at times; it felt different from the first two books. There’s also a fairly large cast to keep track of. I am not sure if this was marketed as a standalone, but I’d recommend reading the first two books to fully appreciate the Boyett sisters’ history.
Thank you to NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer, and Debra Webb for the review copy. All opinions are my own.
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