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The Storyteller's Secret
Not yet published
Expected 5 May 26The stunning new novel from the writer of
The Lamplighter's Bookshop
, perfect for fans of
The Lost Bookshop
and
The Keeper of Stories
He can’t bear to remember. She is desperate to forget…
Drawn together — two souls bound by secrets …
At the Penny Farthing Theatre, Ava Adams is The Storyteller, using hypnotism to draw forgotten memories from the lost and lonely. Taught by her late mother, Ava once believed in her gift — until heartbreak shattered her confidence.
Damien Carter is running from disaster when he sees Ava’s face on a faded poster. It feels like he’s been waiting for her all his life.
But as dark forces conspire to break them, can they reach beyond the prison of their memories to find redemption together?
Drawn together — two souls bound by secrets …
At the Penny Farthing Theatre, Ava Adams is The Storyteller, using hypnotism to draw forgotten memories from the lost and lonely. Taught by her late mother, Ava once believed in her gift — until heartbreak shattered her confidence.
Damien Carter is running from disaster when he sees Ava’s face on a faded poster. It feels like he’s been waiting for her all his life.
But as dark forces conspire to break them, can they reach beyond the prison of their memories to find redemption together?
384 pages, Paperback
Expected publication May 5, 2026
6 people are currently reading
48 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Austin
4 books101 followersOriginally from London, I'm a historical fiction novelist who now lives in Sweden. My debut novel, THE LAMPLIGHTER'S BOOKSHOP (coming March 2025) is a turn of the century tale of rivalry, redemption, and love set under the darkening skies of York in 1899.
I LOVE spending time in Victorian England, both in my writing and in my reading.
Step back in time with me!
I LOVE spending time in Victorian England, both in my writing and in my reading.
Step back in time with me!
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
January 14, 2026
Another really enjoyable historical fiction read from Sophie Austin! Set in 1899 Liverpool, The Storyteller’s Secret follows Ava, a young woman gifted with the ability to draw out forgotten memories through hypnosis, who is trying to live up to her late mother’s legacy while rebuilding her life after a broken engagement. Alongside her is Damien, a man with a troubled past who is very much on the run from his own history. When their paths cross, they discover that together they can do more than they ever could alone.
Just like in Sophie Austin’s debut The Lamplighter’s Bookshop, the writing here is vivid and immersive, with a strong sense of time and place. This book is a total page turner. The plot itself is fairly classic, although the hypnosis and mesmerism lore is interesting to explore. However, what really makes it stand out is how real the characters feel, especially Ava.
One of the things I loved most is how Ava behaves like an actual human being. Even when she is faced with uncomfortable truths, there are no ridiculous impulsive choices or forced misunderstandings used just to manufacture drama. This is particularly clear in her relationship with Damien. Ava’s first instinct is to understand him. She does not immediately walk away even when she learns more about his past. Damien is a more familiar kind of character, the mysterious man with secrets, but he still feels believable and well handled. The novel also features a strong cast of side characters, including Ava’s brother Oliver and her former fiancé Jem. I really appreciated that the author does not try to turn anyone into a villain, because that is simply not how real life works.
All in all, this was a fast, cozy, and satisfying read that delivered exactly what I was hoping for. Highly recommended, and I will definitely be keeping an eye on Sophie Austin’s future books.
Thank you NetGalley and HarperFiction for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Just like in Sophie Austin’s debut The Lamplighter’s Bookshop, the writing here is vivid and immersive, with a strong sense of time and place. This book is a total page turner. The plot itself is fairly classic, although the hypnosis and mesmerism lore is interesting to explore. However, what really makes it stand out is how real the characters feel, especially Ava.
One of the things I loved most is how Ava behaves like an actual human being. Even when she is faced with uncomfortable truths, there are no ridiculous impulsive choices or forced misunderstandings used just to manufacture drama. This is particularly clear in her relationship with Damien. Ava’s first instinct is to understand him. She does not immediately walk away even when she learns more about his past. Damien is a more familiar kind of character, the mysterious man with secrets, but he still feels believable and well handled. The novel also features a strong cast of side characters, including Ava’s brother Oliver and her former fiancé Jem. I really appreciated that the author does not try to turn anyone into a villain, because that is simply not how real life works.
All in all, this was a fast, cozy, and satisfying read that delivered exactly what I was hoping for. Highly recommended, and I will definitely be keeping an eye on Sophie Austin’s future books.
Thank you NetGalley and HarperFiction for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 18, 2025
The Storyteller's Secret by Sophie Austin transports readers to a world where memories hold the secret to healing and connection. What if a strange storyteller could unlock your secret or forgotten past? Set at the gloomy Penny Farthing Theatre, the tale follows Ava Adams, a brilliant hypnotist who extracts hidden memories from the lost and lonely. Her skill, imparted by her late mother, once gave her confidence, but tragedy made her doubt herself. When Damien Carter, a man fleeing calamity, notices her face on a faded poster, fate brings them together for a trip that tests what they remember about themselves and each other.
This isn't your typical historical fiction. It's a narrative about memory, atonement, and the importance of human connection. Ava is not your normal heroine; she's tough, but you can see the flaws. Damien is lugging about a haunted past, desperate for an escape. Their friendship grows fascinatingly, sometimes sweet, sometimes raw, but always believable. The real question is whether they will ever be able to break free from the cages created by their memories and secrets. And just when you think you know where things are going, Austin ramps up the tension with these subtle, almost ghostly forces conspiring to keep them apart. It is suspenseful, but it never loses sight of the story's central theme.
Austin's lyrical, emotive writing style is ideal for the hazy, gas-lit environment of 19th-century theater. The pacing is effective; you are immediately drawn in by the colorful, captivating scenes interspersed with quiet, reflective moments. The dialogue is realistic, and the story is given further depth by the alternate points of view, particularly Ava's bittersweet perspective on her grief and gift. Even though the plot occasionally veers heavily toward drama, you really want to turn the pages to find out what happens next.
If you enjoy historical romance with psychological twists, you'll be perfectly at home. Austin combines intrigue, love, and just enough magic to keep you guessing. The characters are believable, the story stays with you, and it's ideal for anyone who is curious in the stories we carry and choose to tell. If you're fascinated by the delicate dance of remembering and forgetting, and you believe in the power of tales to heal, you should read this book. It's the kind of novel that draws you into the shadows of the past and refuses to let go.
This isn't your typical historical fiction. It's a narrative about memory, atonement, and the importance of human connection. Ava is not your normal heroine; she's tough, but you can see the flaws. Damien is lugging about a haunted past, desperate for an escape. Their friendship grows fascinatingly, sometimes sweet, sometimes raw, but always believable. The real question is whether they will ever be able to break free from the cages created by their memories and secrets. And just when you think you know where things are going, Austin ramps up the tension with these subtle, almost ghostly forces conspiring to keep them apart. It is suspenseful, but it never loses sight of the story's central theme.
Austin's lyrical, emotive writing style is ideal for the hazy, gas-lit environment of 19th-century theater. The pacing is effective; you are immediately drawn in by the colorful, captivating scenes interspersed with quiet, reflective moments. The dialogue is realistic, and the story is given further depth by the alternate points of view, particularly Ava's bittersweet perspective on her grief and gift. Even though the plot occasionally veers heavily toward drama, you really want to turn the pages to find out what happens next.
If you enjoy historical romance with psychological twists, you'll be perfectly at home. Austin combines intrigue, love, and just enough magic to keep you guessing. The characters are believable, the story stays with you, and it's ideal for anyone who is curious in the stories we carry and choose to tell. If you're fascinated by the delicate dance of remembering and forgetting, and you believe in the power of tales to heal, you should read this book. It's the kind of novel that draws you into the shadows of the past and refuses to let go.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 stars rounded up
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I had read a few thrillers back-to-back before this and so I was keen to read something a little different, if not necessarily lighter.
Sophie has this unique talent for creating a sense of place, space, time, and atmosphere. She doesn't just present a list of adjectives describing the weather, she invokes all your senses so you can hear the horse and cart, feel the wind, smell the fresh raindrops, and it really grabs you and you find yourself feeling more involved with the story.
I love it when historical books are set in a theatre. I love the theatre, there's something magical about it, and if you add that with this almost nostalgic, romanticised idea of a theatre within a historical setting, it makes it even more magical.
Ava was a good main character. She has been through some hardships and she's at a crossroads and she isn't sure what to do to help herself and her family, she's conflicted, and I felt for her and really wanted her to succeed.
Damian is the other protagonist. He's a bit hard to work out. He's mysterious, down on his luck, running or hiding from something or someone, and you're not sure if he is to be trusted.
There are many other characters, from Ava and Damian's pasts, her family, friends, and colleagues. Some have bigger roles than others, but generally this is Ava and Damian's story and they work well together, as well as in their individual stories.
I find dialogue the hardest thing to write, and Sophie has managed to create realistic and believable conversations that just feel right.
There is a magical element, and fantasy, worked into this historical novel; it's about memories, what you want to forget, what you want to remember, moving forward, love, loss, friendships, and hope.
It's an historical novel for the most part, but there's also crime and thrill, romance, and a touch of magic.
It is a thoroughly enjoyable book and flows well. It's not particularly fast paced but it still doesn't feel like a slow, sluggish story. It still feels exciting and if you're like me you'll zoom through it. The last quarter or so is especially good.
I don't know if Sophie is planning on sticking to the historical genre for future books; if she does then we're in safe hands, but I am intrigued to see how her talents would lie in something a little different.
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I had read a few thrillers back-to-back before this and so I was keen to read something a little different, if not necessarily lighter.
Sophie has this unique talent for creating a sense of place, space, time, and atmosphere. She doesn't just present a list of adjectives describing the weather, she invokes all your senses so you can hear the horse and cart, feel the wind, smell the fresh raindrops, and it really grabs you and you find yourself feeling more involved with the story.
I love it when historical books are set in a theatre. I love the theatre, there's something magical about it, and if you add that with this almost nostalgic, romanticised idea of a theatre within a historical setting, it makes it even more magical.
Ava was a good main character. She has been through some hardships and she's at a crossroads and she isn't sure what to do to help herself and her family, she's conflicted, and I felt for her and really wanted her to succeed.
Damian is the other protagonist. He's a bit hard to work out. He's mysterious, down on his luck, running or hiding from something or someone, and you're not sure if he is to be trusted.
There are many other characters, from Ava and Damian's pasts, her family, friends, and colleagues. Some have bigger roles than others, but generally this is Ava and Damian's story and they work well together, as well as in their individual stories.
I find dialogue the hardest thing to write, and Sophie has managed to create realistic and believable conversations that just feel right.
There is a magical element, and fantasy, worked into this historical novel; it's about memories, what you want to forget, what you want to remember, moving forward, love, loss, friendships, and hope.
It's an historical novel for the most part, but there's also crime and thrill, romance, and a touch of magic.
It is a thoroughly enjoyable book and flows well. It's not particularly fast paced but it still doesn't feel like a slow, sluggish story. It still feels exciting and if you're like me you'll zoom through it. The last quarter or so is especially good.
I don't know if Sophie is planning on sticking to the historical genre for future books; if she does then we're in safe hands, but I am intrigued to see how her talents would lie in something a little different.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a lovely story of showcasing Ava Adams talent in mesmerism who feels she's lost her way and doubts her talent, and the tale of Damien Carter who's haunted by a tragedy in his past. As their paths collide, maybe they can help each other.
Although I enjoyed the storyline I did find it quite slow paced, I felt it lost its way slightly in the middle and was just musings of the main characters. However once I got past this period the pacing picked up and ended satisfactorily. The setting was atmospheric and nostalgic.
Although I enjoyed the storyline I did find it quite slow paced, I felt it lost its way slightly in the middle and was just musings of the main characters. However once I got past this period the pacing picked up and ended satisfactorily. The setting was atmospheric and nostalgic.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Liverpool, England. Ava Adams works at the Penny Farthing Theatre, she uses mesmerism to draw out memories from the bereaved, lost and lonely. When her brother's best friend and fiancé Jem an breaks their engagement, and Lillian the owner wants her to use her late mothers stage name and she quits.
Damien Carter's father sent him off to boarding school and he ran-away, ten years later he's sure someone is tailing him and comes up with the idea of fleeing to America. When this ends in disaster he finds himself in a lane way staring at an old advertising poster of Ava’s and he wonders if she could help find what his mind has blocked out about his mother's death; even though he’s terrified and doesn’t want to have a relationship with his father.
The narrative is full of mystery, intrigue, secrets and blackmail and explores how the past shapes people and what they do to cope and the complexities of loss and grief.
I received a copy of The Storyteller’s Daughter by Sophie Austin from NetGalley and Harper Fiction UK in exchange for an honest review.
Set in the late Victorian Era, it explores the power of the mind and are Ava and Damien both running from memories and ghosts, the possibility of being happy and finding love. I really liked two other characters, Jem and Mr. Jane, for readers who enjoy historical fiction with lots of twists and turns and the use of mesmerism or what we now call hypnotism and access the subconscious and mind.
I’m keen to see what Ms Austin comes up with next, due to be released on the 12th of February 2026 and four stars from me.
Damien Carter's father sent him off to boarding school and he ran-away, ten years later he's sure someone is tailing him and comes up with the idea of fleeing to America. When this ends in disaster he finds himself in a lane way staring at an old advertising poster of Ava’s and he wonders if she could help find what his mind has blocked out about his mother's death; even though he’s terrified and doesn’t want to have a relationship with his father.
The narrative is full of mystery, intrigue, secrets and blackmail and explores how the past shapes people and what they do to cope and the complexities of loss and grief.
I received a copy of The Storyteller’s Daughter by Sophie Austin from NetGalley and Harper Fiction UK in exchange for an honest review.
Set in the late Victorian Era, it explores the power of the mind and are Ava and Damien both running from memories and ghosts, the possibility of being happy and finding love. I really liked two other characters, Jem and Mr. Jane, for readers who enjoy historical fiction with lots of twists and turns and the use of mesmerism or what we now call hypnotism and access the subconscious and mind.
I’m keen to see what Ms Austin comes up with next, due to be released on the 12th of February 2026 and four stars from me.
November 26, 2025
There’s something quietly magical about Sophie Austin’s writing, and The Storyteller’s Secret captures it beautifully. Set in nineteenth-century York, the novel introduces us to Ava Adams, known as “The Storyteller,” whose gift of hypnotism allows her to draw out long-buried memories from the lost and the lonely. But when her own heart is broken, Ava vows to leave her gift behind — until Damien Carter, a man running from disaster, stumbles across an old advertisement bearing her face.
What follows is a tale of memory, redemption, and the fragile hope of connection. Austin blends historical detail with a touch of the fantastical, creating an atmosphere that feels both grounded and dreamlike. The cobbled streets, the bookshops, the whispers of forgotten pasts — all of it builds a world that is rich, immersive, and tinged with melancholy.
What makes the story so compelling is the emotional core: Ava’s struggle between protecting herself and opening her heart again, and Damien’s desperate need to unlock the truth of his past. Their journeys intertwine in ways that feel tender and deeply human, reminding us how memory can both imprison and free us.
Casually speaking, this is one of those novels you sink into on a quiet evening, letting the atmosphere wrap around you. It’s spellbinding, romantic, and full of heart — a story that lingers long after the last page.
With thanks to Sophie Austin, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC.
What follows is a tale of memory, redemption, and the fragile hope of connection. Austin blends historical detail with a touch of the fantastical, creating an atmosphere that feels both grounded and dreamlike. The cobbled streets, the bookshops, the whispers of forgotten pasts — all of it builds a world that is rich, immersive, and tinged with melancholy.
What makes the story so compelling is the emotional core: Ava’s struggle between protecting herself and opening her heart again, and Damien’s desperate need to unlock the truth of his past. Their journeys intertwine in ways that feel tender and deeply human, reminding us how memory can both imprison and free us.
Casually speaking, this is one of those novels you sink into on a quiet evening, letting the atmosphere wrap around you. It’s spellbinding, romantic, and full of heart — a story that lingers long after the last page.
With thanks to Sophie Austin, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Netgalley Review
The writing was engaging from the beginning right through to the end. There were some emotional and thought provoking moments that added an extra layer to the story.
The chapters were fairly long so you got a good chunk of the story before moving on. A couple of the chapters had a date and a place as the title so that you knew when and where you were reading.
There was a good flow between the chapters making it easy to read for long periods of time. I got invested in the story and was interested to see what was going to happen next!
There was a good pace to the story with little things happening to keep you interested and to keep the story moving forward.
The characters were good. They really brought the emotion to the story and gave me something to think about. Both of the main characters had personal things to work through and it was nice to follow them on their journey.
Lastly the settings. There were nice little details dotted throughout the story, especially when the main character was doing her act.
Overall it was a lovely heartfelt read that was full of emotion. I recommend.
The writing was engaging from the beginning right through to the end. There were some emotional and thought provoking moments that added an extra layer to the story.
The chapters were fairly long so you got a good chunk of the story before moving on. A couple of the chapters had a date and a place as the title so that you knew when and where you were reading.
There was a good flow between the chapters making it easy to read for long periods of time. I got invested in the story and was interested to see what was going to happen next!
There was a good pace to the story with little things happening to keep you interested and to keep the story moving forward.
The characters were good. They really brought the emotion to the story and gave me something to think about. Both of the main characters had personal things to work through and it was nice to follow them on their journey.
Lastly the settings. There were nice little details dotted throughout the story, especially when the main character was doing her act.
Overall it was a lovely heartfelt read that was full of emotion. I recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I found this to be a rather maundering love story. Ava has taken over her mother's slot as a mesmerist at the theatre, weaving stories to enable people to retrieve favoured memories. Then she is let down as her fiance ends the relationship, she seems to lose her abilities and runs away to Edinburgh. Her brother is fighting his own demons, wanting to be a cook but apparently unable to get a job. Meanwhile Damien arrives in Liverpool, a thief, cheat and on the run.
How their lives collide is quite interesting. I was disappointed in how the story was written - there was nothing in the dialogue to make me feel I was in Liverpool nor was I transported to the magical world of theatre. There isn't a lot of action, but a lot of soul searching. We explore why Damien is running, what Ava really feels for the men in her life, how her father is coping with his wife's death and how Oliver can fix his life.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins UK for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
How their lives collide is quite interesting. I was disappointed in how the story was written - there was nothing in the dialogue to make me feel I was in Liverpool nor was I transported to the magical world of theatre. There isn't a lot of action, but a lot of soul searching. We explore why Damien is running, what Ava really feels for the men in her life, how her father is coping with his wife's death and how Oliver can fix his life.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins UK for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 9, 2025
I enjoyed this historical novel. Ava Adams is a hypnotist who works out of the Penny Farthing Theatre in Liverpool. She fled after a negative review of her act to Edinburgh to link in with her mother’s mentor as well as to flee her broken heart.
On her return to Liverpool she finds everything changed - her brother is out of work having broken his arm and her father has become reclusive, having never recovered from the death of his wife.
She meets Damien - who is fleeing his own demons - and needs her talents to uncover his memories.
There is pressure on her to perform by Lillian - the owner of the theatre.
The friendship between Ava and Damien grows - but the question is whether they can escape their respective memories and past secrets to be together.
A story of memory, redemption and hope.
On her return to Liverpool she finds everything changed - her brother is out of work having broken his arm and her father has become reclusive, having never recovered from the death of his wife.
She meets Damien - who is fleeing his own demons - and needs her talents to uncover his memories.
There is pressure on her to perform by Lillian - the owner of the theatre.
The friendship between Ava and Damien grows - but the question is whether they can escape their respective memories and past secrets to be together.
A story of memory, redemption and hope.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Having read and enjoyed The Lamplighter's Bookshop I was delighted to be offered this latest title by Sophie Austin. The writing is good, the descriptions of Liverpool in 1899 well portrayed and the characters in the book are well drawn. So many of the characters are forced into situations they do not want to be in - Ava and Damien particularly and Oliver and Jem too. I do not usually read love stories but this tale is so much more than this. This is more about honesty - with yourself and others, belief in oneself and others and how much everyone needs someone. How important true love is.
An historical novel that gives food for thought.
Many thanks to Netgalley/Sophie Austin/HarperCollins UK for a digital copy of this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
An historical novel that gives food for thought.
Many thanks to Netgalley/Sophie Austin/HarperCollins UK for a digital copy of this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This historical fiction novel has the perfect mix of suspense, drama and romance.
We are who we are today because of what we have done in in the past. However, we are not defined by our past actions, we always have a choice about our future. These are the underlying messages in this story of a man and a woman both trying to run from their respective past failings. Their chance meeting is the key to rethinking who they are and what the future could hold for them if they allow it. Set in 1899 Liverpool, The Storyteller's Secret is a beautifully written story of secrets, love and grief with immensely loveable characters. Perfectly paced from start to finish, I loved this even more than the author's previous novel.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC.
We are who we are today because of what we have done in in the past. However, we are not defined by our past actions, we always have a choice about our future. These are the underlying messages in this story of a man and a woman both trying to run from their respective past failings. Their chance meeting is the key to rethinking who they are and what the future could hold for them if they allow it. Set in 1899 Liverpool, The Storyteller's Secret is a beautifully written story of secrets, love and grief with immensely loveable characters. Perfectly paced from start to finish, I loved this even more than the author's previous novel.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC.
November 29, 2025
The Storyteller’s Secret is a warm, emotional read with a lovely touch of mystery. I really enjoyed how the story blends memory, healing, and romance has a gentle, almost magical feel without leaving the realm of real human emotion. The characters are easy to connect with, and their journeys feel heartfelt and hopeful.
Some parts were a bit predictable, but the atmosphere and emotional depth more than made up for it. It’s the kind of book that wraps you up in its mood and stays with you afterward.
A great pick if you enjoy character-driven stories about love, loss, and the power of storytelling.
Some parts were a bit predictable, but the atmosphere and emotional depth more than made up for it. It’s the kind of book that wraps you up in its mood and stays with you afterward.
A great pick if you enjoy character-driven stories about love, loss, and the power of storytelling.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was wonderful historical fiction. Ava is trying to come to terms with losing her mother and fiancée, her father is also lost in grief, and Damien has secrets in his past that has him fleeing from his father. Ava has a gift, that was like her mother, that she can get people to relax and explore their memories. However, in trying to be the same as her mother she has lost her way. With the demands of Louisa at the theatre and her burgeoning interest in Damien, she needs to sort out herself first. This was entertaining and interesting in its exploration of what memories can do in good ways and bad. Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins for providing this book for me to read and review.
November 19, 2025
This is a book that will stay with me for a while, the way it explores memories was absolutely fascinating. I liked that the characters had flaws and recognised them. The book had a magical feeling to it which had me hooked from the very start. Another great read from Sophie Austin.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A lovely warm magical read, if a bit slow moving at parts.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews