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The Secret We Keep
Morgan
Everyone around me seems to be growing up and moving on, while I am stuck. Isolated. Still living at home.
Until Paddy O'Keefe comes back into my life.
Our friendship blooms and our connection grows, although he refuses to cross the line into something more.
He encourages my dreams and teaches me new things. All while trying to sort through his own trauma.
But in doing so, he sees the that I have to let go of the one thing I cherish most that will change my life forever.
I’m not sure if I’m strong enough to do that… Or if I’m brave enough to make the first step.
But for the first time in forever, Paddy makes me believe it might just be possible.
Everyone around me seems to be growing up and moving on, while I am stuck. Isolated. Still living at home.
Until Paddy O'Keefe comes back into my life.
Our friendship blooms and our connection grows, although he refuses to cross the line into something more.
He encourages my dreams and teaches me new things. All while trying to sort through his own trauma.
But in doing so, he sees the that I have to let go of the one thing I cherish most that will change my life forever.
I’m not sure if I’m strong enough to do that… Or if I’m brave enough to make the first step.
But for the first time in forever, Paddy makes me believe it might just be possible.
435 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 28, 2025
13 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
October 20, 2025
I don’t even have the words. This book was so beautiful and heartbreakingly sad, a truly bittersweet story that lingered long after I finished. Emily Catlow didn’t just write a story, she tore it straight out of the human heart. 💔
The emotions felt raw, the writing was haunting, and the ending… what?! no… it can’t be! I actually went back and reread scenes because I couldn’t believe what I’d just read. That twist hit like a tidal wave, quiet, powerful, and completely devastating.
𝑰𝒕’𝒔 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒂𝒊𝒏 𝒐𝒇𝒕𝒆𝒏 𝒍𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆 𝒃𝒚 𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆.
The emotions felt raw, the writing was haunting, and the ending… what?! no… it can’t be! I actually went back and reread scenes because I couldn’t believe what I’d just read. That twist hit like a tidal wave, quiet, powerful, and completely devastating.
𝑰𝒕’𝒔 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒂𝒊𝒏 𝒐𝒇𝒕𝒆𝒏 𝒍𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆 𝒃𝒚 𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆.
October 18, 2025
This book had me full on sobbing like literally body shuddering crying. It’s so emotional and amazingly written and so clever too. I never saw what was coming. Make sure you have tissues as you read Morgan and paddy’s love story which is so beautiful and just the way he loves her is how we all deserve to be loved. I can’t write any more or I’ll start crying again.
October 17, 2025
This book broke me (in the best way)
4.5 ⭐️ | 0.5 🌶️
Wow. Just wow. The Secret We Keep is one of those books that creeps up on you slowly and then completely unravels your heart in the final chapters. It’s gentle, aching, and quietly powerful, the kind of story that lingers long after you’ve turned the last page.
This was my first Emily Catlow novel, and I can say without hesitation that it won’t be my last. Her writing is beautifully introspective (soft yet unflinching) as she explores grief, self-discovery, and the tender, complicated bonds that shape us.
Morgan, the main character, is at a standstill in life while everyone around her seems to be moving forward. When Paddy, her childhood friend’s older brother, returns to their small English village, an unexpected friendship rekindles something in her: hope, courage, and the painful awareness that healing means letting go.
There’s romance here, yes, but it’s not what drives the story. This is a journey of emotional reckoning, of learning that love sometimes means confronting the hardest truths about yourself. The connection between Morgan and Paddy is slow, genuine, and heartfelt: the kind of chemistry that simmers quietly rather than burns bright.
Catlow weaves in layers of mystery and subtle suspense that build toward a final revelation I did not see coming. It’s the sort of ending that makes you want to flip back through earlier pages and look for the signs you missed.
If you’re drawn to emotional small-town stories with deep character work, a touch of romantic tension, and a twist that will leave you breathless, The Secret We Keep deserves a place on your TBR.
Thank you to Grey’s Promotion for the e-ARC, and congratulations to Emily Catlow on her upcoming release day (October 28th)!
4.5 ⭐️ | 0.5 🌶️
Wow. Just wow. The Secret We Keep is one of those books that creeps up on you slowly and then completely unravels your heart in the final chapters. It’s gentle, aching, and quietly powerful, the kind of story that lingers long after you’ve turned the last page.
This was my first Emily Catlow novel, and I can say without hesitation that it won’t be my last. Her writing is beautifully introspective (soft yet unflinching) as she explores grief, self-discovery, and the tender, complicated bonds that shape us.
Morgan, the main character, is at a standstill in life while everyone around her seems to be moving forward. When Paddy, her childhood friend’s older brother, returns to their small English village, an unexpected friendship rekindles something in her: hope, courage, and the painful awareness that healing means letting go.
There’s romance here, yes, but it’s not what drives the story. This is a journey of emotional reckoning, of learning that love sometimes means confronting the hardest truths about yourself. The connection between Morgan and Paddy is slow, genuine, and heartfelt: the kind of chemistry that simmers quietly rather than burns bright.
Catlow weaves in layers of mystery and subtle suspense that build toward a final revelation I did not see coming. It’s the sort of ending that makes you want to flip back through earlier pages and look for the signs you missed.
If you’re drawn to emotional small-town stories with deep character work, a touch of romantic tension, and a twist that will leave you breathless, The Secret We Keep deserves a place on your TBR.
Thank you to Grey’s Promotion for the e-ARC, and congratulations to Emily Catlow on her upcoming release day (October 28th)!
October 29, 2025
°~☆ The Secrets We Keep ARC review ☆~°
Happy release day to @catlow_books!!
I have tried so many times to write this review without giving anything away, and it's safe to say my sleep deprived mum brain is struggling! In saying that, this is one of those books where I really recommend going in completely blind.
This story follows Paddy and Morgan, both going through their own struggles and both helping to heal each other. Their relationship grows subtly, and we're eased into it. The slow burn is burning!
This book had all the feels. It has a mental health rep that I haven't seen in a book before, and I think this has been tastefully done. It can be challenging to portray some disorders in stories without being cliché but Emily has done a great job. Both in her approach to this disorder, and in a certain character finding out.
Emily has again written another lovely story that I think will stay with many readers for a long time to come.
Happy release day to @catlow_books!!
I have tried so many times to write this review without giving anything away, and it's safe to say my sleep deprived mum brain is struggling! In saying that, this is one of those books where I really recommend going in completely blind.
This story follows Paddy and Morgan, both going through their own struggles and both helping to heal each other. Their relationship grows subtly, and we're eased into it. The slow burn is burning!
This book had all the feels. It has a mental health rep that I haven't seen in a book before, and I think this has been tastefully done. It can be challenging to portray some disorders in stories without being cliché but Emily has done a great job. Both in her approach to this disorder, and in a certain character finding out.
Emily has again written another lovely story that I think will stay with many readers for a long time to come.
October 24, 2025
⭐️ I’ve fallen for a man who’s trying to piece his life back together, and for better or worse, he’s taken me along with him. ⭐️
⭐️ Because she’s my everything. My girl. My curly fries. My forever. ⭐️
God. I don’t know where to start with how AMAZING this story was.
Morgan Brooks is quiet, almost recluse, unable to break through the life she is living. But also feeling like something is different, something is wrong.
Until Paddy O’keefe comes back to their town. The one she loved from a distance, her best friend’s older brother.
Paddy comes home to try and move on from some tragic event in his life, he didn’t bet on using his time at home to get close to Morgan, the girl he loved but never acted on his feelings.
As they spend time together secrets start coming up, and in turn they have to figure out how to work around it.
One thing I have learnt from anything Emily Catlow writes is, she is going to have me wanting to skip chapters because she has me FULLY believing some majorly bad is going to happen, one thing I never expected was the twist.
I did love reading Paddy and Morgan falling back in love with each other and watching their relationship build despite their secrets, their troubles.
I truly believe that Emily is an underrated author and more people need to read her work.
Stunning read.
⭐️ Because she’s my everything. My girl. My curly fries. My forever. ⭐️
God. I don’t know where to start with how AMAZING this story was.
Morgan Brooks is quiet, almost recluse, unable to break through the life she is living. But also feeling like something is different, something is wrong.
Until Paddy O’keefe comes back to their town. The one she loved from a distance, her best friend’s older brother.
Paddy comes home to try and move on from some tragic event in his life, he didn’t bet on using his time at home to get close to Morgan, the girl he loved but never acted on his feelings.
As they spend time together secrets start coming up, and in turn they have to figure out how to work around it.
One thing I have learnt from anything Emily Catlow writes is, she is going to have me wanting to skip chapters because she has me FULLY believing some majorly bad is going to happen, one thing I never expected was the twist.
I did love reading Paddy and Morgan falling back in love with each other and watching their relationship build despite their secrets, their troubles.
I truly believe that Emily is an underrated author and more people need to read her work.
Stunning read.
October 31, 2025
I finished this book days ago; I could not find the words to write this review. Yet the story stuck with me, Morgan and Paddy’s story is heartbreaking, and beautiful.
This book wrecked me, shredded my heart and had me in tears more than once. The writing is fantastic, a true storyteller, and I was constantly on my toes trying to figure out the secret. I never saw it coming. This is a true love story, and in the end, how we all deserved to be loved.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
This book wrecked me, shredded my heart and had me in tears more than once. The writing is fantastic, a true storyteller, and I was constantly on my toes trying to figure out the secret. I never saw it coming. This is a true love story, and in the end, how we all deserved to be loved.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
October 20, 2025
What a beautiful story and another great book by Emily.
There's such a naivety to Morgan's character that is so carefully crafted while constantly keeping you guessing what's going on. Only once the secret is revealed do you start to think, oh yeah.
From childhood crush to full adult heart-throb Paddy and Morgan weave a beautiful love story full of heartache and longing.
The story kept me gripped and the pacing was perfect. I devoured it quickly.
Thank you so much for sharing an early copy of this book with me.
There's such a naivety to Morgan's character that is so carefully crafted while constantly keeping you guessing what's going on. Only once the secret is revealed do you start to think, oh yeah.
From childhood crush to full adult heart-throb Paddy and Morgan weave a beautiful love story full of heartache and longing.
The story kept me gripped and the pacing was perfect. I devoured it quickly.
Thank you so much for sharing an early copy of this book with me.
November 2, 2025
The build up of the story to the end when all the pieces came crashing down, this broke me. It was so hard to read the final few chapters cus everything was a blur with all my tears. But the devotion, love and support?! This hit my heart. I won’t claim to understand what anyone goes thru, but I can’t help but pause life after this and just simply reflect.
Thank you Emily Catlow and Grey’s Promotions for this incredible eARC.
Thank you Emily Catlow and Grey’s Promotions for this incredible eARC.
October 18, 2025
ARC voluntary review
Emily Catlow has gone and done it again with all the emotions throughout
In small countryside town everyone knows everyone especially secrets, big or small!
Morgan grew up crushing on her friend's brother but with him being older there's no way he ever felt the same
Paddy left for London to find himself yet little did he know being in the "big city" would only cause him to miss what everyone in his hometown new
Can Paddy help someone, if the whole town doesn't seem to want to live in reality, especially, the parents of the woman he has always gravitated towards?
Spice level mild to medium
Emily Catlow has gone and done it again with all the emotions throughout
In small countryside town everyone knows everyone especially secrets, big or small!
Morgan grew up crushing on her friend's brother but with him being older there's no way he ever felt the same
Paddy left for London to find himself yet little did he know being in the "big city" would only cause him to miss what everyone in his hometown new
Can Paddy help someone, if the whole town doesn't seem to want to live in reality, especially, the parents of the woman he has always gravitated towards?
Spice level mild to medium
October 28, 2025
4.5 Stars
𝘐𝘵'𝘴 𝘤𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘴𝘦𝘦 𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘴 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘶𝘵𝘶𝘢𝘭. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵'𝘴 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦, 𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘪𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯.
The Secret We Keep is an emotionally charged suspenseful romance that wrecked me and had my emotions all over the place. This story follows childhood friends Morgan and Paddy who have a heartfelt connection.
Paddy was one of those MCs that take your breath away. Always the protector, the way he was determined to bring back Morgan to her former self, pulled at my heartstrings.
Morgan's situation was utterly heart-wrenching and I was all choked up as she struggled with the way her life was at a standstill and feeling like a burden. I loved her growth arc as her spark slowly came back. It was an emotional and heartwarming journey.
The Secret We Keep was full of raw emotion with layers of mystery that built up to a revelation I didn't see coming and brought tears to my eyes. If you're drawn to emotional stories with a healing journey and twists that leave you gasping, this is one you should pick up.
𝘐𝘵'𝘴 𝘤𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘴𝘦𝘦 𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘴 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘶𝘵𝘶𝘢𝘭. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵'𝘴 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦, 𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘪𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯.
The Secret We Keep is an emotionally charged suspenseful romance that wrecked me and had my emotions all over the place. This story follows childhood friends Morgan and Paddy who have a heartfelt connection.
Paddy was one of those MCs that take your breath away. Always the protector, the way he was determined to bring back Morgan to her former self, pulled at my heartstrings.
Morgan's situation was utterly heart-wrenching and I was all choked up as she struggled with the way her life was at a standstill and feeling like a burden. I loved her growth arc as her spark slowly came back. It was an emotional and heartwarming journey.
The Secret We Keep was full of raw emotion with layers of mystery that built up to a revelation I didn't see coming and brought tears to my eyes. If you're drawn to emotional stories with a healing journey and twists that leave you gasping, this is one you should pick up.
October 26, 2025
This book broke me in the best way, whilst also completely piecing me back together.
This is such a heartbreaking yet beautiful story and includes such difficult topics but they’re handled with so much care!
This is a beautiful romance following our main characters Morgan and Paddy as they deal with their own traumas.
There’s not much I can say about this book without spoilers, so all I’ll say is.. WOW..
Emily Catlow you’re an amazing writer and I’m so grateful to have received an early copy of this book!
Thank you.
This is such a heartbreaking yet beautiful story and includes such difficult topics but they’re handled with so much care!
This is a beautiful romance following our main characters Morgan and Paddy as they deal with their own traumas.
There’s not much I can say about this book without spoilers, so all I’ll say is.. WOW..
Emily Catlow you’re an amazing writer and I’m so grateful to have received an early copy of this book!
Thank you.
October 27, 2025
The Secret We Keep - ARC Review
My words are few, but my feelings are plenty!!📖
I’m usually good at seeing a plot twist coming. This one hit me in the face like a ton of bricks. And it hurt. This is one of those books that break you and the slowly heal you, until you have hearts in your eyes. But when it breaks you it damn well hurts. The tears were endless. 🥺😭
This is not your typical “ahh cute” romance, it takes you onto the gravel road, it is a wild ride, but the view is beautiful and oh so worth it!!!🫶🏻❤️
Emily, I’ve been on this ride with you, since the beginning, and with each new release you never cease to amaze me. Your writing style is everything and truly inspiring. Never stop writing, the world needs you! 📝🫶🏻
Now for the Characters.
Morgan has such a special place in my heart, I really just want to give her a hug.
Paddy is such a gentleman, I love him with my whole heart.
Holly, well yes. I uhm….
Fi, I felt so sorry for her, she is amazing.
Evie, is so cute and tough.
Siobhan is lovely! What a woman.
I would recommend this book to anyone and everyone!!!
My words are few, but my feelings are plenty!!📖
I’m usually good at seeing a plot twist coming. This one hit me in the face like a ton of bricks. And it hurt. This is one of those books that break you and the slowly heal you, until you have hearts in your eyes. But when it breaks you it damn well hurts. The tears were endless. 🥺😭
This is not your typical “ahh cute” romance, it takes you onto the gravel road, it is a wild ride, but the view is beautiful and oh so worth it!!!🫶🏻❤️
Emily, I’ve been on this ride with you, since the beginning, and with each new release you never cease to amaze me. Your writing style is everything and truly inspiring. Never stop writing, the world needs you! 📝🫶🏻
Now for the Characters.
Morgan has such a special place in my heart, I really just want to give her a hug.
Paddy is such a gentleman, I love him with my whole heart.
Holly, well yes. I uhm….
Fi, I felt so sorry for her, she is amazing.
Evie, is so cute and tough.
Siobhan is lovely! What a woman.
I would recommend this book to anyone and everyone!!!
October 28, 2025
This is my first ARC for Emily Catlow and so far it is amazing! Im only 20% in and I've cried already!
Its such a gripping story and its pulling me in, I cant put the book down!
This book follows Morgan & Paddy you can feel the connection between them from the get go and so beautiful to read, its getting me all up in the feels!
Morgan seems to of lost her spark from when she was younger, cant hold down a job, doesnt want to drive or even wants a phone! Paddy seems to be the answer to that! Over time Morgan gets her spark back and starts smiling more and being herself.
When they are intimate for the first time its honestly brillaint, the humor and affection they have its beautiful to read!
Now, to the not so happy bit, there's a twist in this book that I never saw coming! I am absolutely sobbing! Its heartbreaking to watch Morgan & Paddy go through this but more for Morgan. I cant express enough have tissues at the ready!
You wont be disappointed in this book!
Hands down a 5 🌟 read from me!!!
Its such a gripping story and its pulling me in, I cant put the book down!
This book follows Morgan & Paddy you can feel the connection between them from the get go and so beautiful to read, its getting me all up in the feels!
Morgan seems to of lost her spark from when she was younger, cant hold down a job, doesnt want to drive or even wants a phone! Paddy seems to be the answer to that! Over time Morgan gets her spark back and starts smiling more and being herself.
When they are intimate for the first time its honestly brillaint, the humor and affection they have its beautiful to read!
Now, to the not so happy bit, there's a twist in this book that I never saw coming! I am absolutely sobbing! Its heartbreaking to watch Morgan & Paddy go through this but more for Morgan. I cant express enough have tissues at the ready!
You wont be disappointed in this book!
Hands down a 5 🌟 read from me!!!
October 21, 2025
I didn't even know what to expect, but this story wasn't it. In the best way. I went in blind and absolutely adored the ride of Paddy & Morgan.
Such a beautiful love story full of understanding, care, love and growth.
Such an amazing read!
Such a beautiful love story full of understanding, care, love and growth.
Such an amazing read!
October 21, 2025
Wow this book is truly so beautiful, raw and real I didn’t expect it to be so wonderfully written and well thought out. It truly made me think and just stare at the ceiling as soon as I finished reading. The characters are so real and so loveable I was loving them from the moment I started reading. Paddy is truly incredible and I loved every single moment and every time we got his POV. And Morgan is so well written and this book truly broke me in so many ways. I will recommend this forever. Thank you so much for giving me this arc.
October 23, 2025
omg bring your tissues when you read this book its emotional.
absolutely LOVED this book Morgan and Paddy grew up together in a small town
they each have there own trauma and working through there feelings for themselves
absolutely LOVED this book Morgan and Paddy grew up together in a small town
they each have there own trauma and working through there feelings for themselves
October 21, 2025
Well... that was some emotional trauma that I would welcome again.
This was so well written, it was engaging, thoughtful and the little twisty twist. I don't know if its baby brain but I certainly wasn't expecting that. I loved it!
This was so well written, it was engaging, thoughtful and the little twisty twist. I don't know if its baby brain but I certainly wasn't expecting that. I loved it!
November 4, 2025
When her past keeps her trapped, can he help release her from the shadows?
I had to give myself time to 1. Think about what I’ve just read and 2. To stop sobbing! I literally finished the last 20% of this book sitting next to my bestfriend (you’ll understand when you read it) probably why it made me cry more😩
Emily really knows how to hit my soft spot, this is the second time I’ve cried due to one of her books. She has a beautiful way of telling/writing every single one of her stories.
At first I thought of Morgan (FMC) as clumsy woman, it seemed like she knew what she wanted to do but her parents were so over protective and she wouldn’t go against them. While she’s watching all her friends move on and grow up she is stuck.
I thought Paddy (MMC) was one of the bad boys we all love but boy was I completely wrong! He is a man with filled with guilt and trauma from his past but is the genuinely the nicest and cutest man ever.
Their story is emotional, raw and heavy. Get ready for a beautiful journey🖤
Contains: mental health rep🌻
I had to give myself time to 1. Think about what I’ve just read and 2. To stop sobbing! I literally finished the last 20% of this book sitting next to my bestfriend (you’ll understand when you read it) probably why it made me cry more😩
Emily really knows how to hit my soft spot, this is the second time I’ve cried due to one of her books. She has a beautiful way of telling/writing every single one of her stories.
At first I thought of Morgan (FMC) as clumsy woman, it seemed like she knew what she wanted to do but her parents were so over protective and she wouldn’t go against them. While she’s watching all her friends move on and grow up she is stuck.
I thought Paddy (MMC) was one of the bad boys we all love but boy was I completely wrong! He is a man with filled with guilt and trauma from his past but is the genuinely the nicest and cutest man ever.
Their story is emotional, raw and heavy. Get ready for a beautiful journey🖤
Contains: mental health rep🌻
October 28, 2025
I’d recommend going into this book blind as I did for the best experience but for those of you who have to read about it first, this is my thoughts on it!
You know those books that stay with you forever? For me, this is one of those!
I find Emily to write in a uniquely, raw and true way that I don’t often come across. It’s refreshing and deeply immersing. After reading her first book, ‘Straight to Me’ I’ve found myself reading every book she releases and is now an auto-buy author for me.
Being completely honest, because of Emily’s raw way of writing, I sat on this book for a couple of days before diving in, thinking, I didn’t feel up to the intensity but it was a definite mind over matter situation. The moment I dived in, I got completely sucked into the story and devoured it until an ungodly hour, not wanting to stop!
Americans like British men, Brits like Irish Men, I don’t know why, it’s just and thing, ok and Paddy O’Keefe… what a genuine, likeable character. Not just a fictional book boyfriend but the man you’d want by your side in every walk of life. I hope some people out there experience this kind of partnership because boy is it special!
A truly moving and sensational read.
You know those books that stay with you forever? For me, this is one of those!
I find Emily to write in a uniquely, raw and true way that I don’t often come across. It’s refreshing and deeply immersing. After reading her first book, ‘Straight to Me’ I’ve found myself reading every book she releases and is now an auto-buy author for me.
Being completely honest, because of Emily’s raw way of writing, I sat on this book for a couple of days before diving in, thinking, I didn’t feel up to the intensity but it was a definite mind over matter situation. The moment I dived in, I got completely sucked into the story and devoured it until an ungodly hour, not wanting to stop!
Americans like British men, Brits like Irish Men, I don’t know why, it’s just and thing, ok and Paddy O’Keefe… what a genuine, likeable character. Not just a fictional book boyfriend but the man you’d want by your side in every walk of life. I hope some people out there experience this kind of partnership because boy is it special!
A truly moving and sensational read.
October 24, 2025
Oh my HEART. “The Secrets We Keep” absolutely wrecked me in the most beautiful way. Emily Catlow knows exactly how to write those quiet, aching stories that just sit with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
Morgan’s voice felt so real—raw and painfully relatable. That feeling of being stuck while everyone else moves forward? God, it hit too close. And then there’s Paddy O’Keefe. The way he just shows up for her, steady and gentle, while fighting his own demons… he’s the kind of MMC that sneaks into your chest and stays there. Their friendship-to-something-more slow burn was so tender and frustrating and perfect. I was literally clutching my Kindle whispering “JUST KISS ALREADY” but also didn’t want to rush a single second.
The emotions in this book are heavy but hopeful. It’s about grief, healing, and the terrifying beauty of taking that first step toward change. I cried, I smiled through the tears, and when it ended, I just sat there staring at the wall because I wasn’t ready to leave them behind.
This story hurt in all the right ways. Quietly powerful, heartbreakingly human, and absolutely unforgettable. Emily Catlow—you broke me and I’m thanking you for it.
Morgan’s voice felt so real—raw and painfully relatable. That feeling of being stuck while everyone else moves forward? God, it hit too close. And then there’s Paddy O’Keefe. The way he just shows up for her, steady and gentle, while fighting his own demons… he’s the kind of MMC that sneaks into your chest and stays there. Their friendship-to-something-more slow burn was so tender and frustrating and perfect. I was literally clutching my Kindle whispering “JUST KISS ALREADY” but also didn’t want to rush a single second.
The emotions in this book are heavy but hopeful. It’s about grief, healing, and the terrifying beauty of taking that first step toward change. I cried, I smiled through the tears, and when it ended, I just sat there staring at the wall because I wasn’t ready to leave them behind.
This story hurt in all the right ways. Quietly powerful, heartbreakingly human, and absolutely unforgettable. Emily Catlow—you broke me and I’m thanking you for it.
October 27, 2025
"The Secret We Keep" it’s one of those books you feel as much as you read and tells the story of Morgan and Paddy.
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5
🌶️ Spice: 0.5
Morgan has always had a crush on Paddy. Still living in her small hometown with her overprotective parents and trying to hold on boring jobs, she never expected their paths to cross again. But when Paddy gets suspended from his EMT job, he returns home from London— and their worlds collide once more.
As they spend more time together, old feelings resurface, and hidden secrets begin to unravel. When Paddy finally learns what Morgan's parents had been hiding, he steps in to help her — and it feels as though he’s the one she needed.
This story is both beautifully written and heartbreakingly sad. The emotional depth, the unexpected twist, and the raw tenderness between the characters left me in tears by the final chapters.
💯 recommend!!
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5
🌶️ Spice: 0.5
Morgan has always had a crush on Paddy. Still living in her small hometown with her overprotective parents and trying to hold on boring jobs, she never expected their paths to cross again. But when Paddy gets suspended from his EMT job, he returns home from London— and their worlds collide once more.
As they spend more time together, old feelings resurface, and hidden secrets begin to unravel. When Paddy finally learns what Morgan's parents had been hiding, he steps in to help her — and it feels as though he’s the one she needed.
This story is both beautifully written and heartbreakingly sad. The emotional depth, the unexpected twist, and the raw tenderness between the characters left me in tears by the final chapters.
💯 recommend!!
October 28, 2025
Excuse me while I wipe my face from tears and my nose from snot... this book had me all up in my feels!
Emily's writing is absolutely exquisite and I am here for every single word this woman delivers because it is THAT good!
This book. Wow. I'm quite frankly at a loss of words and not even sure where to begin. Paddy is everything. He loves with his whole dang heart and it is so freaking beautiful. Even with the bumps in the road, his heart is pure gold. And the way he loves Morgan? There is nothing that compares.
Their story is messy. It's hard. It has ALOT of curveballs. It's heavy. But most of all, it's beautiful. The lesson? Never give up. Have YOUR person, always. Believe in yourself. You can do this!
Ahhh. This book will forever and ever live in my heart!
Emily's writing is absolutely exquisite and I am here for every single word this woman delivers because it is THAT good!
This book. Wow. I'm quite frankly at a loss of words and not even sure where to begin. Paddy is everything. He loves with his whole dang heart and it is so freaking beautiful. Even with the bumps in the road, his heart is pure gold. And the way he loves Morgan? There is nothing that compares.
Their story is messy. It's hard. It has ALOT of curveballs. It's heavy. But most of all, it's beautiful. The lesson? Never give up. Have YOUR person, always. Believe in yourself. You can do this!
Ahhh. This book will forever and ever live in my heart!
October 22, 2025
The Secret We Keep by Emily Catlow
Releasing 28th October
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️
Wow, I don't know where to start with this book. I knew it was going to be heartbreaking but I wasn't fully prepared until reading it. It was outstanding, it finished me. I still have a book hangover several days after finishing it.
It has been written so beautifully it's breathtaking, such a bittersweet story that I think Paddy and Morgan will forever live with me. As I was reading I didn't know which way Emily was taking this, then it hit and I was like wow and backtracked to other bits I had read and was like wow I can see that now.
Both Paddy and Morgan are amazing complex characters that I adore. Add in little Evie and Kevin the dog and its perfect introdiced lighthearted scenes within this truely captivating story.
This is an absolute must read!!
🌻Small-Town Romance
🌻Slow burn
🌻Friends to Lovers
🌻It's always been you
🌻Best friend's brother
🌻Mental health rep
@catlow_books always produces amazing books and The Secret We Keep has became my new favourite of hers and one of top reads ever. Thank you for allowing me to read your work and for giving us all Paddy and Morgan.
Releasing 28th October
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️
Wow, I don't know where to start with this book. I knew it was going to be heartbreaking but I wasn't fully prepared until reading it. It was outstanding, it finished me. I still have a book hangover several days after finishing it.
It has been written so beautifully it's breathtaking, such a bittersweet story that I think Paddy and Morgan will forever live with me. As I was reading I didn't know which way Emily was taking this, then it hit and I was like wow and backtracked to other bits I had read and was like wow I can see that now.
Both Paddy and Morgan are amazing complex characters that I adore. Add in little Evie and Kevin the dog and its perfect introdiced lighthearted scenes within this truely captivating story.
This is an absolute must read!!
🌻Small-Town Romance
🌻Slow burn
🌻Friends to Lovers
🌻It's always been you
🌻Best friend's brother
🌻Mental health rep
@catlow_books always produces amazing books and The Secret We Keep has became my new favourite of hers and one of top reads ever. Thank you for allowing me to read your work and for giving us all Paddy and Morgan.
October 27, 2025
I am so lucky I am part of Emily's ARC Team as every time its above a 4⭐.
This book was perfection in a character driven story. This standalone is so different from her Rippers series (dark MC romance) and her other standalone All I Ever Needed (second chance romance).
We follow Morgan & Paddy and their relationship from kids when Paddy was Morgan's best friends brother she had a crush on, to years later when they are in their early 20's. We see whats changed in their lives over the last 14 years and shaped them to the people they are now.
The characters are so brilliantly written which doesn't surprise me with Emily's writing and the mental health rep is done so well. Prepare to be an emotional wreck and add this to your TBR asap!
Thank you so much Emily & team.
This book was perfection in a character driven story. This standalone is so different from her Rippers series (dark MC romance) and her other standalone All I Ever Needed (second chance romance).
We follow Morgan & Paddy and their relationship from kids when Paddy was Morgan's best friends brother she had a crush on, to years later when they are in their early 20's. We see whats changed in their lives over the last 14 years and shaped them to the people they are now.
The characters are so brilliantly written which doesn't surprise me with Emily's writing and the mental health rep is done so well. Prepare to be an emotional wreck and add this to your TBR asap!
Thank you so much Emily & team.
November 1, 2025
Another wonderful read by one of my favorite Authors. This story had me invested from the beginning to the very last page. It definitely was a roller skating rink of emotions. This story with its characters will stick with me for a while. Morgan & Paddy are definitely two characters that left a mark on this reader. One of my favorite books I read in 2025. Looking forward to her next book.
October 21, 2025
Oh my goodness…. What an incredible book, the way this is written is superb. I will 100% be recommending this to everyone I speak too🤩 the review is quite hard as there is a twist to the story that will totally spoil it if you know but wow… go read Paddy and Morgan’s story as it’s incredible and beautifully written by Emily Catlow! This is a story that will stick with me for a long time that’s for sure!
Blurb
Morgan
Everyone around me seems to be growing up and moving on, while I am stuck. Isolated. Still living at home.
Until Paddy O'Keefe comes back into my life.
Our friendship blooms and our connection grows, although he refuses to cross the line into something more.
He encourages my dreams and teaches me new things. All while trying to sort through his own trauma.
But in doing so, he sees the truth: that I have to let go of the one thing I cherish most that will change my life forever.
I'm not sure if I'm strong enough to do that... Or if I'm brave enough to make the first step.
But for the first time in forever, Paddy makes me believe it might just be possible.
Blurb
Morgan
Everyone around me seems to be growing up and moving on, while I am stuck. Isolated. Still living at home.
Until Paddy O'Keefe comes back into my life.
Our friendship blooms and our connection grows, although he refuses to cross the line into something more.
He encourages my dreams and teaches me new things. All while trying to sort through his own trauma.
But in doing so, he sees the truth: that I have to let go of the one thing I cherish most that will change my life forever.
I'm not sure if I'm strong enough to do that... Or if I'm brave enough to make the first step.
But for the first time in forever, Paddy makes me believe it might just be possible.
October 25, 2025
A sweet new adult story. Morgan is at that age where adulthood is right around the corner and everyone seems to be making it there while she feels stuck left behind. Then enters Paddy, her childhood crush returned home. Their story was very emotional and sweet with a light suspense plot thrown in
October 21, 2025
****ARC REVIEW****
Morgan has always had a crush on Paddy O'Keefe. It wasn't until Patty was back in town that these feelings started to resurface. Morgan lived with her overprotective parents and worked a boring office job. Paddy ends up leaving London after getting suspended from his job as an EMT. After Morgan's father discloses a secret, Paddy has made it his mission to protect Morgan and to love her deeply. This is a story of Paddy's dedication and love to Morgan. The book is very well written. You can feel all the emotions that every character feels. Highly recommend!
Morgan has always had a crush on Paddy O'Keefe. It wasn't until Patty was back in town that these feelings started to resurface. Morgan lived with her overprotective parents and worked a boring office job. Paddy ends up leaving London after getting suspended from his job as an EMT. After Morgan's father discloses a secret, Paddy has made it his mission to protect Morgan and to love her deeply. This is a story of Paddy's dedication and love to Morgan. The book is very well written. You can feel all the emotions that every character feels. Highly recommend!
November 2, 2025
This is an emotional read with characters that tell a heck of a story. Characters with great depth and amazing backgrounds. Morgan and Paddy have known each other a long time. This book is a journey. It’s Morgan and Paddy’s beautiful but emotional journey. It’s about life, love and everything in between. These two have a pull but they also have a few obstacles… can they get through those obstacles to have a beautiful future together? This author told a beautiful story about this amazing journey.
December 5, 2025
“When you can’t sleep, I’ll collect all the stars for you.”
The Book
I’ve never read anything from this author before, but now she’s a must-read for me. No spoilers, but let’s just say the twist completely threw me for a loop. The tension in their friendship, the effort Paddy put in, and the way they would both do anything for each other—I loved it all. I also thought the premise was unique; both of their healing journeys were different but beautifully done.
➳ Morgan Brooks
fmc, 21 years old, “curly fries”
Some might say she’s a little lovesick, but I found Morgan so cute and relatable. Everyone loves her and is ready to back her. She really gains her confidence with him and is finally able to let go of the past that was holding her back.
➳ Paddy O’Keefe
mmc, 24 years old, “he-man”
I wasn’t sure about him at first; he irritated me a bit before the mystery started unraveling, but it was hard to stay frustrated when he was so supportive and caring. He was her strength and the one person she could always count on. And although I don’t know if their level of dependency is realistic, I still found it incredibly sweet in the book. I, for one, would love to believe that love can heal anything.
Tropes
Best friend’s older brother, mental health rep, angry love confessions, sauna scene, friends to lovers, mystery, small-town England setting
ARC reader, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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