The Secrets We Keep The Lies We Tell: A Novel

by Annette Ortiz Mata

194 pages, Paperback

Published October 31, 2025

Reviews

[Paul Mata · Rating 5 out of 5]

ADDICTIVE. That would be the singular word I would use to describe this book. Reading this book was like drug. I found myself trying to read this book slower so that I could really make it last longer due to how short it was. Not even 200 pages but the story keeps on pulling you back and back for more. Every time I finished a chapter I found myself wanting more and more. I loved how easy it was to read. Very straightforward and didn't leave you guessing too much, but left a lot of space for personal interpretation. I also am a firm believer that ambiguity within a story is even better than laying it all out for the reader. I say that but I also did crave a little more description in certain sections and about certain characters but that's neither here or there. If you think about whose perspective we are reading this book from it makes sense. It most definitely is not an easy read but it is a lot of fun. Long story short everyone in this book is flawed one way or another but that's what makes it all so human. I cannot reiterate enough how many times I found myself thinking about the book during my day to day when I was at work LOL.

Reviews aside I am overwhelmed with emotion for how proud I am of my mom. For her first fiction book she absolutely killed it and I'll be recommending it to all of my friends and coworkers who want an easy read that will keep you extremely entertained. IM SO PROUD OF YOU MOM LOVE YOU<3333

[marcos · Rating 5 out of 5]

You're not gonna expect the crazy twists in this one

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Secrets We Keep The Lies We Tell by Annette Ortiz Mata is a quiet yet emotionally potent novel that examines how unspoken truths shape lives, relationships, and identity.

With restraint and clarity, Ortiz Mata explores the fragile architecture of secrecy the lies we inherit, the ones we choose, and the cost of maintaining them. The novel’s strength lies in its intimacy: it invites readers into the emotional interior of its characters, where silence often speaks louder than confession.

Rather than relying on dramatic spectacle, the story builds tension through emotional accumulation. Each withheld truth deepens the stakes, revealing how protection can become harm, and love can coexist with deception. The prose is accessible yet deliberate, allowing the themes of trust, memory, and accountability to unfold naturally.

This is a novel for readers who appreciate character driven storytelling those drawn to family dynamics, emotional realism, and the subtle moments where everything can change. The Secrets We Keep The Lies We Tell reminds us that honesty is rarely simple, but silence is never neutral.

[Ellison · Rating 3 out of 5]

a nubile marries a rich guy to get out of the hood. turns out he is a lying rat who puts her through the ringer. oh, and those around her all seem to have a secret they are keeping.