Christmas is over. And so is my marriage…Twenty years of marriage. Twenty years of ignored red flags. And one very smug ex-girlfriend.
He seemed perfect at first. Don’t they always? I fell fast, and I fell hard. So when I discovered his secret double life, suddenly all those years of feeling paranoid made sense.
I had two options (well three, if you count me and my best friend with two spades and a suspicious willingness to serve hard time):
1. Stay for the kids
2. Sacrifice my sanity to divorce the b*stard
The Secret Divorcée is my unfiltered story of falling for a red flag, betrayal, bad decisions, and how to turn heartbreak into hilarity – fuelled by wine and a side hustle my mother must never, ever find out about.
Thank HarperColins One More Chapter publisher for the opportunity to review The Secret Divorcée by The Secret Divorcée.
The blurb hooked me right away and the email you sent for my approval request is probably the best thing I've received from NetGalley. As 20-something years old who also is a child of divorce, I always see divorce as a messy crazy turn of events. The crying, screaming, fighting, torturing and of course, revenging left everyone exhausted. But The Secret Divorcée went for other direction of divorce which I would have never resonate it with humor and cheeky jokes.
The book started out simple with Cassie found out her husband is having an affair with his university sweetheart from 20 years ago. Then it took us to the past, from her previous failed relationship to how she met Tom, her current husband. And I will be brutally honest here; it was painful and embarrassing to read about Cassie's past decision. SPOILER! She had sex with a stranger on her kitchen table in middle of the night. She ignored all her friend advice and ditched her on multiple occasions. She idolized this man she just met because she wanted to settle down so badly partially to earn her parent's approval. It's painful to see how Cassie - a 26-year-old woman, jumped from being control by her parent to be cheated on by her fiancé and then ended up with the most controlling husband of all. Cassie not only being trapped by her husband, but she also chose to trap herself in the housewife stay at home mother role forever. She deliberately chose her fate, again and again and again. All of Tom's red flag is not tiny but burning hot from hell. But somehow, they have 3 children together and now when Cassie wanted to get divorce, she found herself has... nothing? Shocker? Not really. The story started to read more and more like a Reddit post especially when Cassie met a rich guy who she has to choose between financially independent for her and the kids and no sex life or being trapped in share custody with her ex. Really? What is going on?
I truly believed that Tom's tactic only works if Cassie is freshly 19-20 years old and being groomed (especially after the "Brotherhood", I want to puke, and the "his family is just racist, homophobic, the usual type" comment). I can't feel relate or even sympathy toward Cassie choice. REALLY? I don't even believe if he said he and Hannah was just colleagues and he slept on her floor! WHO THE FUCK SLEPT ON THEIR COWOKER FLOOR WITH JUST UNDIE? Let alone have that stranger dick in me. Yes, he is a horrible terrible disgusting man, but we need to stop letting men get away with these basic bullshitting lies. Anyway, I don't want to get carry on with the story and how Cassie is 20 years ago. I do like how after all this shit thrown at her, she still can keep a brave face and happy honest smile. She still can joke and basically win because of that. I want her to be happy and honestly, she deserves better than just settle down.
I love Rose a lot too. Though at the beginning she basically nudged Cassie and lowkey stalked Tom and then suddenly changed her opinion on him after her friend ditched her. Of course, Cassie would not be thrilled. I honestly so proud of them for their friendship survived this horrible marriage.
Overall, I think this book is more like a fun journey, you should not take it too seriously (like I did lol).
It had been a long time since I’d read a book in this genre, but something about the cover and the blurb really caught my attention, and I simply couldn’t resist. I’m incredibly glad I gave in to the temptation, because I truly enjoyed reading this story.
When a partner has hurt you deeply, you become sensitive and vulnerable. Some people seem to have a radar for that and know exactly how to approach you in order to turn you into their victim. And you—still believing in love despite the betrayal—fall for the charm and the attention, and before you even realize it, you’re a helpless little fly trapped in the sticky web of a big, disgusting spider.
If something seems too good to be true, it usually is. And no matter how many people warn you or give you well-meant advice, you brush it all aside. You only see the good in that person and fail to notice how, slowly but surely, you’re losing your own identity completely.
Is Cassie too naïve? Maybe. But in hindsight, it’s always easy to say so. I loved watching how, with the help of her best friend Rose, she gradually rediscovers herself.
And then there’s Tom. Charming on the surface, but I honestly think it would be hard to find a more horrifying person. I’ve read several books about situations like this, but Tom could easily be crowned emperor of cruelty.
I truly hope the author decides to write a sequel, because there are still quite a few things I’m curious about—questions that are indirectly answered in the story, but that I would absolutely love to see fully written out.
I read this book in disbelief at times, but I also found myself wiping away the occasional tear—not only out of sadness for Cassie and her children, but also because she managed to make me laugh. For me, this book absolutely deserves 5 stars.
Thank you One More Chapter and NetGalley for this ARC, coming Jan 1st.
This book is funny and heartbreaking in the same breath. Cassie starts out as this kind, accommodating woman who thinks she’s found her perfect match in Tom — except Tom turns out to be anything but perfect. What she doesn’t see for far too long is that he’s a controlling, serial-cheating, gaslighting piece of work. Truly elite-level a**hole behaviour.
When Cassie finally uncovers his affair with his ex, she does the bravest thing she’s ever done: she divorces him and begins the long climb back to herself. And thank goodness for Rose — the kind of best friend who brings truth, wine, and the occasional shove in the right direction.
Tom doesn’t make the process easy (manipulators never do), but Cassie comes out stronger, clearer, and victorious. The author’s anonymity makes sense — this story is raw, personal, and reads like someone turning their pain into a battle cry. It’s a study in manipulation: how charm becomes a weapon, how easy it is to miss the signs, and how expertly people like Tom love-bomb you into submission.
And Cassie’s reclaiming of herself? Iconic. The scene where she experiences her first-ever earth-shattering orgasm had me laughing, cheering, and texting imaginary feminist group chats. It’s chaotic, liberating, and absolutely perfect.
A bold, messy, empowering read about taking your life back — one boundary, one friendship, and one very satisfying “NO MORE” at a time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This is a punchy little novel about Cassie who discovers her husband of 20 years is having an affair. The story is very simple and straightforward without too many surprises. Cassie is angry, sad, broke, and does her best to get her life back together, preserve her children's lives, and also move on with her own. She keeps afloat largely thanks to her BFF Rose.
This wasn't really my cup of tea, as it was a little too simple and too "in my face" and brash in the delivery, but I can't fault the book. For what it seems to achieve, this is a 4 star book. For those who want a no holds barred fun little depiction of a woman salvaging what she can, it's an excellent choice. The writing is excellent and the format, with Carrie's little notes into her daily diary were a fun touch. I found both Cassie and Rose to be likeable, and I was rooting for Carrie to pull through. With divorce being a massive life event that so many women experience, especially at the hands of a horrible ex-husband, I absolutely believe this book has a place and many women will find comfort reading Cassie's blow-by-blow as she endures hers.
Thank you to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter, and NetGalley for this Advanced Reader Copy of the book.
3.5 stars. The story follows Cassie finding out her husband of 20 years is having an affair, then we go back to the beginning of their relationship, to her confronting him and then the divorce and her rebuilding herself. What an emotional rollercoaster this books was. The ex is a manipulative, gas lighting, lying scumbag, who cheated and led a double life for 20 years. He was controlling and forced her to be reliant on him and cut everyone out of her life.
The rage I felt, on behalf of the FMC, at his continued mistreatment of her had my stomach in a knot for the better part of this book. He tried to take everything from her - even the furniture. She gets a job cleaning and working as a phone sex operator to pay her bills and lawyer fees. I was on the edge of my seat for a lot of this book but wish there was a little more to the ending. It felt a little unfinished. She chooses herself in the end and is proud of her growth but I wanted to know what the outcome of the divorce is. Just a little more details would round the end, or at least my curiosity.
For the sake of the author, I hope more of this was fiction than truth!
Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins UK and One More Chapter for the chance to read the ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
At times I wanted to laugh, at others I wanted to wring Tom's neck - ok that would be almost the whole time with regards to Tom.
What a see you next Tuesday he is. He is one of those most despicable sorts of men, and poor poor Cassie just fell for his persona completely.
Well until 20 years later she discovers definite proof that has been cheating on her, and then she grows a backbone with the help of a good friend.
Seeing her determination to rebuild her life, after giving over complete and utter control of everything to her hopefully soon to be ex-husband was inspiring.
I was absolutely loving her new side hustle which added a definite comedic and light hearted element to the story.
And with how it ends, all I can say is more please! I'd love sequel as I need to know what might be happening next to Cassie, while hoping she stays strong.
An inspired bit of writing that felt so real, I was hooked from start to finish.
Thank you to One More Chapter and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
.This book is raw, real, and deeply relatable—even if you haven’t lived through the exact experiences it depicts. The chapter structure, paired with journal-style summaries, is both unique and incredibly readable, making it easy to fly through while still packing an emotional punch.
I am not divorced and have never experienced a cheating partner, and yet this book absolutely riled me up. It’s a powerful exposé of time, energy, and love wasted on men who did not deserve it—and, more importantly, a moving exploration of how to pick up the pieces, reclaim yourself, and move forward stronger.
The voice and honesty reminded me so much of Dolly Alderton’s writing, in the very best way: sharp, vulnerable, funny, and painfully insightful. Every page felt cathartic. I was rooting for the author the entire time, even without knowing who she is.
I loved this book, and I have nothing but admiration for whoever this anonymous writer may be. A standout read that will resonate with anyone who has ever loved, lost, and had to rebuild themselves afterward.
I really enjoyed this book! Almost a five star, but just missing the extra little spice.
Cassie felt like a genuine person all throughout the story, and it was easy to understand her tumbling down under the spell of Tom the terrible. I loved Rose, and her devotion as a friend. I think she’s a great representation of actual friendship through the ups and downs of life. I liked how each chapter closed with journal entries from the events of the day. Overall a fun journey - as much as story about a manipulative asshole, a perpetual home-wrecker, and a single mom just trying to do her best while navigating a rocky divorce can be.
The true determination of Cassie to do anything she could to make ends meet, was a fun ride. I was proud of her for still believing in love after everything. I hope she finds her happy ending. I wish we could get even more of the story.
Thank you Net Galley and Harper Collin’s UK for letting me read the EReader ARC, I had a wonderful time. All thoughts are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This is almost a story in two halves, in the first half we find out how Cassie ends up married to Tom, in the second how it all falls to pieces. To be honest I really struggled with the first half reading how Tom was gradually taking over Cassie's life, splitting her from her friends and taking total control. The second half injected some much needed humour as well as the drama and I really enjoyed this part of the story. A constant in the story is Cassie's best friend Rose, who I loved and who gave much needed support to her. A warning to all about never taking things for granted but also that there is always hope. I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
The Secret Divorcée follows Cassie's journey to getting her life back after discovering her husband of twenty years has been cheating on her. The story goes back to the beginning of their relationship, before flashing back forward to the end of it. The chapters are so short, and so well-crafted, they just suck you right in and make it impossible to put this book down. Most of the time, it feels kind of like a car crash you can't look away from, and every time you think it couldn't possibly get worse, it sure will. It is such a witty, fun read, which perfectly balances out the most gut wrenching parts of it; because it does get really quite sad at times.
Many thanks to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter & NetGalley for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
The story starts off with Cassie being dumped right before her wedding, she then meets Tom who’s quickly becomes the one or does he. Then it’s the tangle of a messy divorce with 3 kids. I found the start a bit annoying, I liked Cassie, but she was really foolish and that it rated me. When it got into the cheating scandal the story came alive. It was funny, even though it’s a delicate subject to right about. I think it was very relatable to me as I’ve going through the same and you have a laugh about it as crying didn’t fix anything. A funny, yet serious 4.5 star read. Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for a copy.
I had high hoped for the book but they were all exceeded very quickly. I laughed, I stressed, I cried. I did everything you’d want a book to do emotions wise. Perfect read for any occasion.
Relatable situations, especially the main character’s younger years. The writing was exceptional. The added touches of three bullet points at the end of each chapter with songs to listen to during each chapter. I will have to re-read it for that experience alone. I must say, the author has an incredible music taste!
A read I will be recommending to all my friends, and anyone who will simply listen to me yap about it!
One of the best books I’ve read this year! I laughed, I cringed, I got very annoyed and I loved every minute of it. The chapters each referencing a song was genius!
It’s been a while since a character in a book has evoked so much dislike from me, Tom…. Wow just wow what a complete and utter #*** (bleep!)
Cassie and her best mate though are the back bone to this story, it may be an awful thing for Cassie to be going through but Rose is that friend we all want in our lives!
Go and grab a copy of this book, you won’t be disappointed!
The book looked like it would give me a few laughs and insight on divorce. I am happily married so having someone tell their “true” story on dealing with it would be a change of pace for me in reading a book. It did give me a few chuckles but for the most part it was too loud and in my face. I would tell friends who are divorced or thinking about reading this book. It will give them friends to lean on and make their situation easier and maybe a bit normal for them. Thank you NetGalley and One More Chapter for the ARC of The Secret Divorcee. This is my personal review.
This book is brutally honest and hilariously relatable. It's not just about the pain- it's about resilience, humor and finding yourself when life flips upside down. The Secret Divorcee isn't just a breakup story - it's a comedic survival guide born of heartbreak. I loved the dairy-styled entries , felt it gave more pacing to the story. Loved the character of Rose a BFF that everyone needs. I would recommend this book reader who love sharp humor. I thank netgalley for eARC
The Secret Divorcee is a quick, entertaining read — humorous, candid, and at times both heartbreaking and heartwarming.
The story shines most in its portrayal of friendship and the bonds that help steady us when life takes an unexpected turn. While not a must-read, it’s a solid choice for readers looking for something relatable, quirky, and easy to get through.
Firstly thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC.
An insightful book about someone who was slowly gaslighted into a marriage. Funny in places and emotional in others, I'm glad the Secret Divorcee got her wish of writing a book. Beautifully written, a must for those who are going through a divorce.
Thank you to Netgalley and Haper Collins for the ARC. I loved it so much I finished it in two days. The main character had me laughing out loud and wanting to create a divorce soundtrack with all the songs mentioned in the chapter headlines.
The Secret Divorcée by The Secret Divorcee published by Harper Collins UK/ One MoreChapter is a new to me debut author. A witty and at the same time raw and gritty read about finding yourself, second chances in life, a great story that I throughly enjoyed reading.
I received a free copy of, The Secret Divorcee, by The Secret Divorcee, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Cassies's husband heated on her, so now she wants a divorce, I found Cassie to be a weak women, I did not care for her at all.
I enjoyed this book. But ... part 2 is where it really hits. I was more invested after the cheating was exposed than Part 1, which felt boring sometimes, introducing Tom and All. Sometimes Cassie's life decisions made me want to scream at her, but it was also kinda fun sometimes. The annoying revenge moments made the story feel ok and enough to get at least 3 stars.
I knew I would love "The Secret Divorcée" the moment I saw it on NetGalley.
The title, the cover, the description, even the release date (Jan. 1st)... everything was right up my alley.
And I wasn't wrong. "The Secret Divorcée" was everything I expected and more.
I would describe it as something in between Bridget Jones (Helen Fielding) and the Shopaholic series (Sophie Kinsella) in terms of writing, story, wit, and humor.
Even though the FMC goes through a hard period in her life, I loved seeing how she faced every challenge, and I absolutely loved the ending.
I also loved the format. Each chapter resembles a blog or diary entry.
So, if you'd like to start the New Year with a funny and strong female lead... look no further.
A funny totally relatable read, particularly for women of a certain age! Told with humour wit and total frankness, this book epitomises the strength, tenacity and courage of women who find themselves in this situation, a situation none of us ever want to be in but unfortunately it happens and how you dig yourself out whilst continuing to live, look after the children, work etc etc! Heartbreaking but uplifting at the same time, loved the portrayal of female friendship,, alternative employment options and starting over again! Thank you NetGalley forthis early read
The humour in this book was top notch! I absolutely loved it! With that said thought this is definatly a guide on how not to find a husband! Tom is bursting with red flags and like most heartbroken young girls Cassie just wants to be loved, soon the red flags turn into Cassies normality and it’s so easy to see how she was drawn in! I found this book so therapeutic to read, I think most of us will find some comfort in the fact that it’s not just us who fall for the wrong person or in the wrong circumstances. One of my favourite reads this year! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟