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Secrets Like Ours
A gripping new novel of suspense about a woman drawn into a world of wealth and privilege like she's never dreamed, but comes to realize that the family behind it all is hiding terrifying secrets.
Some families bury more than the past.
Emily grew up in a broken home and did everything she could to leave the chaos behind. She built something steady. Something quiet. Then she caught the attention of Daniel Winthrop, heir to one of New England’s most powerful dynasties.
He swept Emily off her feet, married her, and gave her a mansion on the cliffs. But the secrets that could bury her came with it.
Don’t wander at night.
Don’t ask about the west wing.
Absolutely don’t open the door to the basement.
And those rules aren’t warnings. They’re survival.
Emily wanted a fresh start. What she found was a family legacy soaked in dark secrets.
But Emily learned long ago how to survive storms. Whatever the Winthrops are hiding, she will drag it into the light.
Including the cruelest secret of all: why Daniel married her in the first place.
Can Emily survive what she finds?
Release day is December 9th! (Included in Kindle Unlimited!)
Some families bury more than the past.
Emily grew up in a broken home and did everything she could to leave the chaos behind. She built something steady. Something quiet. Then she caught the attention of Daniel Winthrop, heir to one of New England’s most powerful dynasties.
He swept Emily off her feet, married her, and gave her a mansion on the cliffs. But the secrets that could bury her came with it.
Don’t wander at night.
Don’t ask about the west wing.
Absolutely don’t open the door to the basement.
And those rules aren’t warnings. They’re survival.
Emily wanted a fresh start. What she found was a family legacy soaked in dark secrets.
But Emily learned long ago how to survive storms. Whatever the Winthrops are hiding, she will drag it into the light.
Including the cruelest secret of all: why Daniel married her in the first place.
Can Emily survive what she finds?
Release day is December 9th! (Included in Kindle Unlimited!)
316 pages, Paperback
First published December 9, 2025
108 people are currently reading
23064 people want to read
About the author
S.T. Ashman
7 books600 followersS. T. Ashman is a German-American writer born and raised in Germany, now calling the beautiful U.S. Seacoast home. She once delved into the criminal justice system as a psychotherapist, a role that gifted her with a unique insight into the human psyche—both the beautiful and the deeply shadowed. In another life, she’d be a trench coat-wearing, mystery-solving female Columbo. Her mother’s lineage traces back thousands of years to the Frisians, a fierce Germanic tribe from the north. A history lover to the core, she explores not only her own ancestry but also Indigenous cultures around the world. She weaves history and cultural awareness into action-packed fiction that keeps readers turning pages late into the night.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
November 12, 2025
Gripping, brimming with secrets, deception, lost memories, and twists! S.T. Ashman has delivered yet again with Secrets Like Ours! Emily had a rough upbringing and many questions about the past which she cannot remember. She wants a quiet, stress-free life. When she meets Daniel Winthrop, she can't believe that this wealthy and handsome man was expressing interest in her. But Daniel couldn't help but notice Emily and they went on to get married. Emily has her issues, and Daniel is supportive and understanding. After all, he has some issues in his past as well. After some time, they decide to visit his family home on the cliffs. It's breathtaking and picturesque but beneath the surface, secrets lie.
I enjoyed the setting of this book - a mansion on the cliffs in New England. I also loved how atmospheric it felt at home with the ocean, and surging ocean waves, and an impending storm! The is more than one storm brewing in this book! This book is packed full of secrets and strange occurrences. I enjoyed the mental health aspect of this book. I appreciated how the author had Emily seeking mental health treatment. I felt this was handled very well. Emily at times wasn't sure if what she was experiencing was real or if she was hallucinating.
I enjoyed not knowing if Emily was unreliable or if Daniel and the employees at the home were unreliable. I love the who can-be-trusted trope in books. I enjoyed the tension, the mounting dread, the sense of danger, and the eerie vibe during certain sections of this book! I had no idea where this book was going, and the twists and turns kept me on my toes, and the reveals were shocking! I had a hard time putting this book and found the plot to be riveting!
I look forward to reading what S.T. Ashman writes next!
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
I enjoyed the setting of this book - a mansion on the cliffs in New England. I also loved how atmospheric it felt at home with the ocean, and surging ocean waves, and an impending storm! The is more than one storm brewing in this book! This book is packed full of secrets and strange occurrences. I enjoyed the mental health aspect of this book. I appreciated how the author had Emily seeking mental health treatment. I felt this was handled very well. Emily at times wasn't sure if what she was experiencing was real or if she was hallucinating.
I enjoyed not knowing if Emily was unreliable or if Daniel and the employees at the home were unreliable. I love the who can-be-trusted trope in books. I enjoyed the tension, the mounting dread, the sense of danger, and the eerie vibe during certain sections of this book! I had no idea where this book was going, and the twists and turns kept me on my toes, and the reveals were shocking! I had a hard time putting this book and found the plot to be riveting!
I look forward to reading what S.T. Ashman writes next!
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
January 3, 2026
Secrets Like Ours is the kind of book that creeps up on you. It starts quietly, almost gently, then shifts into something tense and unsettling before you even realize you’ve crossed that line. Emily moves into the Winthrop mansion, hoping for stability, but the house has its own agenda. The rules alone set the vibe. Don’t wander at night. Don’t ask questions. Definitely don’t open the basement door. It’s the literary equivalent of someone handing you a flashlight and saying, “Trust me, you’re going to need this.”
One of the most striking layers of the novel is how it functions as a modern update of the classic New England Gothic thriller (think Daphne du Maurier's "Rebecca"). The mansion on the cliffs has all the classic elements: grandeur that feels slightly decayed, rooms sealed off for reasons no one will explain, and a sense of inherited power that seeps into every interaction. The house behaves like a relic of old New England privilege, full of secrets that have been polished instead of cleaned. It creates a slow, shadowy pressure that wraps around Emily long before she understands what she has stepped into. The setting isn’t decoration. It’s a trap disguised as luxury.
The mansion feels alive, but in that quiet, oppressive way where every hallway hums with history you aren’t sure you want to uncover. The tension builds steadily, then Ashman drops these huge reveals that force you to rethink everything you thought you understood. I had more than one “wait, what just happened” moment and found myself flipping back a few pages just to confirm I read it right.
Emily’s journey feels especially compelling because she isn’t polished or perfect. She’s working through trauma, trying to piece herself together while walking into a family legacy that seems determined to break her apart. I appreciated how openly the story treats mental health. Her choice to seek help feels real and grounding, not performative, and it adds a layer of emotional weight that makes the danger around her hit even harder.
By the end, I felt like I had been pulled into a storm with her. The writing is sharp, the twists are bold, and the whole thing has this eerie, emotional punch that sticks with you. If you like thrillers where the house feels like it should probably be on a government watchlist, this one delivers. And honestly, if a building needs this many rules to keep people alive, it’s time to move.
One of the most striking layers of the novel is how it functions as a modern update of the classic New England Gothic thriller (think Daphne du Maurier's "Rebecca"). The mansion on the cliffs has all the classic elements: grandeur that feels slightly decayed, rooms sealed off for reasons no one will explain, and a sense of inherited power that seeps into every interaction. The house behaves like a relic of old New England privilege, full of secrets that have been polished instead of cleaned. It creates a slow, shadowy pressure that wraps around Emily long before she understands what she has stepped into. The setting isn’t decoration. It’s a trap disguised as luxury.
The mansion feels alive, but in that quiet, oppressive way where every hallway hums with history you aren’t sure you want to uncover. The tension builds steadily, then Ashman drops these huge reveals that force you to rethink everything you thought you understood. I had more than one “wait, what just happened” moment and found myself flipping back a few pages just to confirm I read it right.
Emily’s journey feels especially compelling because she isn’t polished or perfect. She’s working through trauma, trying to piece herself together while walking into a family legacy that seems determined to break her apart. I appreciated how openly the story treats mental health. Her choice to seek help feels real and grounding, not performative, and it adds a layer of emotional weight that makes the danger around her hit even harder.
By the end, I felt like I had been pulled into a storm with her. The writing is sharp, the twists are bold, and the whole thing has this eerie, emotional punch that sticks with you. If you like thrillers where the house feels like it should probably be on a government watchlist, this one delivers. And honestly, if a building needs this many rules to keep people alive, it’s time to move.
December 19, 2025
Secrets Like Ours by S. T. Ashman is a twisty, atmospheric psychological thriller about Emily, a woman determined to rebuild her life after a traumatic childhood who thinks she’s finally found peace when she falls for the charming and wealthy Daniel Winthrop and marries him, only to discover that there is far more lurking beneath the surface of Daniel’s powerful family and their cliff-side mansion than she ever expected. As Emily moves into the imposing Winthrop estate, she encounters strict, eerie rules about where she cannot go and unsettling events that make her question everything she thought she knew about memory, truth, and safety. The story blends family secrets, concealed pasts, dark legacies, and psychological suspense in a way that keeps readers guessing right up until the astonishing final twists.
The thing that hit me most emotionally about this book was how human Emily feels as she tries to piece her life together while being pulled deeper into a world that seems both luxurious and threatening at once. Her past trauma and difficulties with memory aren’t just plot devices, they shape the way she interprets everything around her, making the experience of reading this feel intimate and anxiety-charged in the best way.
I could almost feel the cold draft of the Winthrop mansion’s halls, the push-pull between Emily’s hope and her growing unease, and the way every locked door seemed to promise another layer of truth or danger. There were moments that genuinely unsettled me, especially as strange occurrences and eerie details began to stack up, and I found myself rooting for Emily’s resilience even when the story made me doubt her perceptions. I loved the dark, twisty narrative and the seamless tension of the mystery. However, the psychological elements can feel complex and intense on the first half of the book, as the lines between reliability and uncertainty blur.
My rating: 4 out of 5 stars. I’m giving Secrets Like Ours four stars because it delivered a gripping, haunting thriller with emotional depth, a compelling heroine, and twists that genuinely surprised me; the atmosphere and suspense stayed with me long after the last page, even if a few plot complexities made me pause and reflect before fully processing every twist.
If you love dark, psychological reads with layered mysteries and families with secrets that echo through generations, this one will be right up your alley.
The thing that hit me most emotionally about this book was how human Emily feels as she tries to piece her life together while being pulled deeper into a world that seems both luxurious and threatening at once. Her past trauma and difficulties with memory aren’t just plot devices, they shape the way she interprets everything around her, making the experience of reading this feel intimate and anxiety-charged in the best way.
I could almost feel the cold draft of the Winthrop mansion’s halls, the push-pull between Emily’s hope and her growing unease, and the way every locked door seemed to promise another layer of truth or danger. There were moments that genuinely unsettled me, especially as strange occurrences and eerie details began to stack up, and I found myself rooting for Emily’s resilience even when the story made me doubt her perceptions. I loved the dark, twisty narrative and the seamless tension of the mystery. However, the psychological elements can feel complex and intense on the first half of the book, as the lines between reliability and uncertainty blur.
My rating: 4 out of 5 stars. I’m giving Secrets Like Ours four stars because it delivered a gripping, haunting thriller with emotional depth, a compelling heroine, and twists that genuinely surprised me; the atmosphere and suspense stayed with me long after the last page, even if a few plot complexities made me pause and reflect before fully processing every twist.
If you love dark, psychological reads with layered mysteries and families with secrets that echo through generations, this one will be right up your alley.
November 29, 2025
4.5 stars
Secrets Like Ours by S.T. Ashman is a mystery novel about a woman whose mental state is not always in tune.
Let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Victory Editing and of course the author for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Well, this was really good. It reminds me that I must go back to her other books. She is an excellent thriller writer.
Although I had guessed the connection between Daniel and Emily, I really wasn't sure who I could trust -- that included Daniel and Emily. I thought we might have an unreliable narrator. There was definitely a twist that I did not see coming. It was a fun read, because I really didn't know what was going to happen next. The plot and characters all kept me guessing. I don't think I've ever read a book where a bird gets lines. Like I said, a fun read --- not funny by any means though. It was a little dark, and a lot mysterious.
Overall, I highly recommend it. I was afraid it might be a romance novel, and it was, but it was so much more. If you need a fast-moving thriller, this is it.
Anyway, until next time....
For a more thorough review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, my own synopsis of the book, and its author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
December 25, 2025
#ad much love for my advance copy
& @libro.fm #partner for the ALC
‧₊˚ ✩°｡⋆♡ ⋆˙⟡♡ ⋆˙⟡♡⋆｡°✩˚₊‧
🆂🅴🅲🆁🅴🆃🆂 🅻🅸🅺🅴 🅾🆄🆁🆂
< @booksbyashman >
ᴀᴠᴀɪʟᴀʙʟᴇ ᴠɪᴀ ᴋᴜ
‧₊˚ ✩°｡⋆♡ ⋆˙⟡♡ ⋆˙⟡♡⋆｡°✩˚₊‧
Emily and Daniel each have traumatic pasts, but have found each other. They’ve been together for three years when tragedy strikes again. Emily’s psychiatrist is shot dead right in front of her. Already struggling with PTSD and sleep disorders, Daniel purposes she not go back to work and that they travel for a while.
But right before her psychiatrist was shot, she was about to tell Emily something about Daniel. Now she wonders what that could have been. Then they end up in the mansion Daniel grew up in, but there’s a yellow door that leads to the basement and Emily is told not to go down there because it’s dangerous.
What lies behind that yellow door?
🎧: Also listened to the audio while following along and recommend either way of reading. The audio is fantastic.
Mem
Mochi the talking bird and everything he says😂😂 (the audio for this 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼) my fav character ever
Maine bc duh
Scared to have kids bc of mental illness is so legit.
I liked this one but not my fav book by her. Def a solid read though!
Why is the phrase “white trash” only reserved for women?
& @libro.fm #partner for the ALC
‧₊˚ ✩°｡⋆♡ ⋆˙⟡♡ ⋆˙⟡♡⋆｡°✩˚₊‧
🆂🅴🅲🆁🅴🆃🆂 🅻🅸🅺🅴 🅾🆄🆁🆂
< @booksbyashman >
ᴀᴠᴀɪʟᴀʙʟᴇ ᴠɪᴀ ᴋᴜ
‧₊˚ ✩°｡⋆♡ ⋆˙⟡♡ ⋆˙⟡♡⋆｡°✩˚₊‧
Emily and Daniel each have traumatic pasts, but have found each other. They’ve been together for three years when tragedy strikes again. Emily’s psychiatrist is shot dead right in front of her. Already struggling with PTSD and sleep disorders, Daniel purposes she not go back to work and that they travel for a while.
But right before her psychiatrist was shot, she was about to tell Emily something about Daniel. Now she wonders what that could have been. Then they end up in the mansion Daniel grew up in, but there’s a yellow door that leads to the basement and Emily is told not to go down there because it’s dangerous.
What lies behind that yellow door?
🎧: Also listened to the audio while following along and recommend either way of reading. The audio is fantastic.
Mem
Mochi the talking bird and everything he says😂😂 (the audio for this 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼) my fav character ever
Maine bc duh
Scared to have kids bc of mental illness is so legit.
I liked this one but not my fav book by her. Def a solid read though!
Why is the phrase “white trash” only reserved for women?
December 9, 2025
Once again, Ashman strikes gold !!!! I was so gripped by this book. The main character had my heart since the beginning. At one point, I thought I guessed a villain but noooo, I was so far from it. The ending is even better than what I imagined.. 5 star plus !!!!
November 4, 2025
4.75⭐
This book completely pulled me in from the first chapter. It’s emotional, messy, and beautifully written in a way that makes the characters feel painfully real. I loved how layered the story was, it’s not just about secrets, but about the weight people carry and how those truths can either destroy or free them.
The author did an amazing job at capturing that quiet kind of heartbreak that doesn’t come from one big moment, but from all the little ones that build up over time. There were parts that genuinely made my chest ache, but also moments of hope and connection that balanced it perfectly.
The pacing and tension were spot on, and even when I thought I knew where the story was going, it surprised me. The only reason I didn’t give it a full five stars is because a few scenes felt slightly drawn out, but honestly, it didn’t take away from how much I loved it.
This book completely pulled me in from the first chapter. It’s emotional, messy, and beautifully written in a way that makes the characters feel painfully real. I loved how layered the story was, it’s not just about secrets, but about the weight people carry and how those truths can either destroy or free them.
The author did an amazing job at capturing that quiet kind of heartbreak that doesn’t come from one big moment, but from all the little ones that build up over time. There were parts that genuinely made my chest ache, but also moments of hope and connection that balanced it perfectly.
The pacing and tension were spot on, and even when I thought I knew where the story was going, it surprised me. The only reason I didn’t give it a full five stars is because a few scenes felt slightly drawn out, but honestly, it didn’t take away from how much I loved it.
December 25, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up. The initial set up of the story had me absolutely hooked, it just seemed to unravel somewhat from there for me.
December 28, 2025
If you're looking for a thriller that is filled with twists, turns, and a great storyline, look no further! S. T. Ashman created a gripping thriller, that captures you to keep reading from the moment you start the book. I loved the characters, the plot, the twists, and the constant "I think I figured it out!" (which honestly, the twists were so well-written, I kept guessing incorrectly!) I found that the main character Emily to be a strong female main character, and the details of her life and thoughts were so seamless, that I felt like I was in the story. I highly recommend this book to any thriller lovers out there! Be ready for quite the ride of those twists and turns!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
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December 2, 2025What on earth did I just read?
November 27, 2025
This was a fast paced, twisty thriller full of tension and secrets and twist after twist! This was a really quick read for me, and it’s definitely one of those thrillers you could finish in one sitting. It was really hard to tell if any of these characters were reliable or not, and I actually really like that aspect of the story. I was constantly changing my mind on whether a character was good or bad, and always speculating and coming up with theories about what was really going on. All of my guesses were so far off and I was really surprised when everything came to a climax!
I also really loved the setting of the story, which was in a mansion right on the edge of cliffs, next to a violent ocean- which I feel is the perfect setting for a thriller like this. Especially when the storm hit! The book was wrapped up perfectly in my opinion and I wasn’t left with any lingering questions, and I was actually very happy with the ending which is rare for me when it comes to thrillers! This was a fun, fast read that I’d definitely recommend!
Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I also really loved the setting of the story, which was in a mansion right on the edge of cliffs, next to a violent ocean- which I feel is the perfect setting for a thriller like this. Especially when the storm hit! The book was wrapped up perfectly in my opinion and I wasn’t left with any lingering questions, and I was actually very happy with the ending which is rare for me when it comes to thrillers! This was a fun, fast read that I’d definitely recommend!
Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 5, 2025
Secrets Like Ours hooked me early on and kept my attention throughout! S.T. Ashman has this way of painting a setting so vividly that it basically becomes a character itself - moody corners, atmospheric shadows, little details tucked into each scene. The descriptive language alone could have carried the book - but the characters and plot were *chef's kiss* also!
So much dark mystery tied into each character - leaving me guessing who could be trusted until the end. Reality bending with a touch of paranormal and a dash of mental illness made for some intense, edge-of-your-seat chapters! The plot moved with a steady flow - never dragging, never sprinting.
A few questions I wish had been tied up a little nicer but c'est la vie in psych thriller world - sometimes we leave a little confused and I'm okay with that.
Overall, an amazing read. Atmospheric, engaging, well-written, and mysterious!
Thanks to Netgalley, S.T. Ashman, and Victory Co-Op for the ARC and chance to give my honest opinion!
So much dark mystery tied into each character - leaving me guessing who could be trusted until the end. Reality bending with a touch of paranormal and a dash of mental illness made for some intense, edge-of-your-seat chapters! The plot moved with a steady flow - never dragging, never sprinting.
A few questions I wish had been tied up a little nicer but c'est la vie in psych thriller world - sometimes we leave a little confused and I'm okay with that.
Overall, an amazing read. Atmospheric, engaging, well-written, and mysterious!
Thanks to Netgalley, S.T. Ashman, and Victory Co-Op for the ARC and chance to give my honest opinion!
September 30, 2025
"𝑰𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒂 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒓 𝒏𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒍, 𝑰'𝒅 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒍𝒆𝒕 𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒂𝒏 𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒘𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒏 𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉 𝒊𝒏 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏𝒕 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈."
Special thanks to @booksbyashman for the amazing chance to beta and arc read this great novel!
👉🏼 swipe for synopsis ➡️
𝙈𝙔 𝙍𝙀𝙑𝙄𝙀𝙒:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved the line above, because it made me laugh out loud. Because IYKYK 🤪
This book will make you want to reread it to make sure you actually read all of it right. Its unhinged, dark and super twisty. At the very end I said to myself, "what the actual f*ck did i just read"
The way S.T. Ashman weaves dark thrillers is amazing. This book will have you questioning your sanity too the very end.
Preorder this one today!
𝙋𝙐𝘽 𝘿𝘼𝙔:
ℚ𝕆𝕋𝔻❓️⁉️❓️ Have you ever beta read for anyone? Who and what book?
.
.
.
#mysteryandthrills #thrillersandsuspense #thrillerfriendsunite #thrillerlover #thrilleraddict #thrillerjunkie #thrillergirlie #bookbuzz #upcomingthriller #stashman #ashmanbooks #secretslikeours #betaread #arcread
.
Special thanks to @booksbyashman for the amazing chance to beta and arc read this great novel!
👉🏼 swipe for synopsis ➡️
𝙈𝙔 𝙍𝙀𝙑𝙄𝙀𝙒:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved the line above, because it made me laugh out loud. Because IYKYK 🤪
This book will make you want to reread it to make sure you actually read all of it right. Its unhinged, dark and super twisty. At the very end I said to myself, "what the actual f*ck did i just read"
The way S.T. Ashman weaves dark thrillers is amazing. This book will have you questioning your sanity too the very end.
Preorder this one today!
𝙋𝙐𝘽 𝘿𝘼𝙔:
ℚ𝕆𝕋𝔻❓️⁉️❓️ Have you ever beta read for anyone? Who and what book?
.
.
.
#mysteryandthrills #thrillersandsuspense #thrillerfriendsunite #thrillerlover #thrilleraddict #thrillerjunkie #thrillergirlie #bookbuzz #upcomingthriller #stashman #ashmanbooks #secretslikeours #betaread #arcread
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November 15, 2025
Mind mending!
Emily grew up in a troubled home and she has worked hard to move forward and build a life for herself. Her life changes the day Daniel Winthrop, heir to one of the wealthiest families in New England, walks into her life and after a whirlwind romance they are married. But Emily is unsettled by not knowing anything about Daniel’s family and his past. When she insists on visiting his family estate located on a private island off the New England coastline. The Breakers holds horrible memories for Daniel and he is reluctant to take her there. When he finally relents, Daniel has a few strange rules for Emily including to not open the basement door. But Emily’s pet bird keeps repeating odd phrases about the basement and Emily’s curiosity wins. What she uncovers are the darkest of family secrets and will cause her to question everything, including her own sanity.
This story was so twisty and mysterious, I had no idea how it would end or who I could trust. Another amazing thriller by this author!
Thank you Netgalley, Victory Editing Netgalley Co-op, and the author for this eARC in exchange for my honest review. This book will be available for purchase on December 9,2025
Emily grew up in a troubled home and she has worked hard to move forward and build a life for herself. Her life changes the day Daniel Winthrop, heir to one of the wealthiest families in New England, walks into her life and after a whirlwind romance they are married. But Emily is unsettled by not knowing anything about Daniel’s family and his past. When she insists on visiting his family estate located on a private island off the New England coastline. The Breakers holds horrible memories for Daniel and he is reluctant to take her there. When he finally relents, Daniel has a few strange rules for Emily including to not open the basement door. But Emily’s pet bird keeps repeating odd phrases about the basement and Emily’s curiosity wins. What she uncovers are the darkest of family secrets and will cause her to question everything, including her own sanity.
This story was so twisty and mysterious, I had no idea how it would end or who I could trust. Another amazing thriller by this author!
Thank you Netgalley, Victory Editing Netgalley Co-op, and the author for this eARC in exchange for my honest review. This book will be available for purchase on December 9,2025
December 20, 2025
Secrets Like Ours by S.T. Ashman is a must-read! This was my first experience with this author's work, and I can confidently say it won’t be my last. The story kept me guessing the entire time. Other books, I can usually guess what’s coming, this one completely surprised me.
I loved the relationship between Emily and Daniel and rooted for them. But... I found myself questioning Daniel’s motives throughout the book. Without spoiling anything, his secrets made me wonder and kept me on edge. I was rooting for Emily to remember the mysteries of her past, hoping she could find closure and happiness with Daniel.
The setting of The Breaker felt eerie and unsettling, almost like a character in itself. It’s definitely not somewhere I’d want to live or stay! You can't tell if Emily is having hallucinations, if there are ghosts, or if there is an explanation you aren't seeing. The ending was completely unpredictable, I won't give anything away, but...it may or may not surprise you. I'm curious to see what direction other readers will predict.
I can’t wait to read/listen to more of S. T. Ashman’s books, and I’m eager to see how other readers felt about this one. If you enjoy suspense, mystery, and emotional twists, you’ll love this books.
Thank you Netgalley for giving me the privilege of reading/listening to this ARC. #SecretsLikeOurs #NetGalley #S.T.Ashman #VictoryeditingNetgalleyCo-op
I loved the relationship between Emily and Daniel and rooted for them. But... I found myself questioning Daniel’s motives throughout the book. Without spoiling anything, his secrets made me wonder and kept me on edge. I was rooting for Emily to remember the mysteries of her past, hoping she could find closure and happiness with Daniel.
The setting of The Breaker felt eerie and unsettling, almost like a character in itself. It’s definitely not somewhere I’d want to live or stay! You can't tell if Emily is having hallucinations, if there are ghosts, or if there is an explanation you aren't seeing. The ending was completely unpredictable, I won't give anything away, but...it may or may not surprise you. I'm curious to see what direction other readers will predict.
I can’t wait to read/listen to more of S. T. Ashman’s books, and I’m eager to see how other readers felt about this one. If you enjoy suspense, mystery, and emotional twists, you’ll love this books.
Thank you Netgalley for giving me the privilege of reading/listening to this ARC. #SecretsLikeOurs #NetGalley #S.T.Ashman #VictoryeditingNetgalleyCo-op
December 5, 2025
Secrets Like Ours tucked me inside a cliffside mansion with rules that absolutely guaranteed I would break them. Don’t wander at night? Obviously I’m wandering at night. Emily’s new life among the powerful, deeply cursed Winthrops was perfectly gothic, eerie, and addictive. The forbidden west wing, the locked basement door, the ominous family whispers, it all felt like stepping into a luxury haunted house with a marriage certificate as the entry ticket. And when Emily started dragging the skeletons into the light? I cheered. Out loud.
December 23, 2025
Wow! I couldn't put this one down for a second. I read straight through! Ashman brilliantly developed characters you care about and root for. Emily and Daniel both carry deep secrets and I eagerly read through to get to the heart of both their family's pasts. Clearly a mystery is going to unravel; however, there are so many unknowns, you are left guessing what the next surprise could be. Ashman's incredible writing kept me glued to the pages to uncover the next bombshell truth. This thriller will take a permanent place on my favorites shelf!
November 1, 2025
4.5 stars. I enjoyed Ashman's I Kill Killer series, so was excited to see she had a new book in the pipeline. This was insane and I loved it. Unreliable narrator, family secrets, anti-psychotic medications, murder. Whew. The only thing I missed was a bad ass classical music playing female serial killer.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for providing me with an advance reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.
Publishes December 9, 2025.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for providing me with an advance reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.
Publishes December 9, 2025.
January 2, 2026
A nice surprise
Not bad! Started off a little creepy with some soul searching induced PTSD and ended with a good twist plus a touch of moral ambiguity. Good character building and good flow throughout the whole book.
Not bad! Started off a little creepy with some soul searching induced PTSD and ended with a good twist plus a touch of moral ambiguity. Good character building and good flow throughout the whole book.
November 24, 2025
Release: Dec 9, 2025
Author: ST Ashman
Publisher: ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op
Rating: 4★
Emily thought she’d finally left her painful past behind. After growing up in a broken home, she fought for a quiet, stable life—and when Daniel Winthrop, the charming heir to a powerful New England family, swept her off her feet, it felt like everything she’d ever wanted. But once she moves into his grand mansion perched on the cliffs, it’s clear that her fairy tale has teeth.
There are rules in the Winthrop house: don’t wander after dark, don’t ask about the west wing, and never open the door beneath the stairs. The more Emily tries to settle in, the more she realizes she’s living inside a web of old secrets and lies. The Winthrops are hiding something rotten—and Emily is determined to uncover it, no matter what it costs.
Because the truth about why Daniel really married her might be the most dangerous secret of all.
Wow—Secrets Like Ours completely hooked me from the first chapter! This is one of those fast-paced, twisty reads that you can’t put down because you have to know what happens next. The writing is sharp and immersive, and the atmosphere pulls you right into the Winthrop mansion and all its eerie, hidden corners.
Emily is such a well-drawn character—flawed, resilient, and easy to root for as she tries to outrun her past while uncovering the darkness in her new life. The story blends trauma, memory, and family secrets in a way that keeps you guessing right up until the final reveal. Every twist landed perfectly, and I found myself questioning everyone and everything along the way.
This author knows how to craft tension and bring her characters to life. If you love psychological suspense filled with secrets, lies, and shocking turns, this one’s a must-read.
Favorite Quote:
“Actually that’s my secret — I can’t even talk about you to anybody because I don’t want any more people to know how wonderful you are.”
Author: ST Ashman
Publisher: ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op
Rating: 4★
Emily thought she’d finally left her painful past behind. After growing up in a broken home, she fought for a quiet, stable life—and when Daniel Winthrop, the charming heir to a powerful New England family, swept her off her feet, it felt like everything she’d ever wanted. But once she moves into his grand mansion perched on the cliffs, it’s clear that her fairy tale has teeth.
There are rules in the Winthrop house: don’t wander after dark, don’t ask about the west wing, and never open the door beneath the stairs. The more Emily tries to settle in, the more she realizes she’s living inside a web of old secrets and lies. The Winthrops are hiding something rotten—and Emily is determined to uncover it, no matter what it costs.
Because the truth about why Daniel really married her might be the most dangerous secret of all.
Wow—Secrets Like Ours completely hooked me from the first chapter! This is one of those fast-paced, twisty reads that you can’t put down because you have to know what happens next. The writing is sharp and immersive, and the atmosphere pulls you right into the Winthrop mansion and all its eerie, hidden corners.
Emily is such a well-drawn character—flawed, resilient, and easy to root for as she tries to outrun her past while uncovering the darkness in her new life. The story blends trauma, memory, and family secrets in a way that keeps you guessing right up until the final reveal. Every twist landed perfectly, and I found myself questioning everyone and everything along the way.
This author knows how to craft tension and bring her characters to life. If you love psychological suspense filled with secrets, lies, and shocking turns, this one’s a must-read.
Favorite Quote:
“Actually that’s my secret — I can’t even talk about you to anybody because I don’t want any more people to know how wonderful you are.”
December 4, 2025
S.T. Ashman you NAILED IT!! I fell in love with S.T. Ashman's writing when I read her debut novel I Kill Killers and I have been hooked on her writing ever since!! Her books always have you on the edge of your seats, questioning everything and giving you unexpected twists and turns. I love how she pulls you in from the first page and she holds your attention until the end. You will be turning pages so fast and will be taken on one heck of a rollercoaster ride!
Emily has such a tragic story. She grew up in a broken household and as an adult she has tried to do everything she can turn her life into something normal and steady. But then she meets Daniel Winthrop who is an heir to a powerful New England dynasty. He sweeps her right off her feet and they fall hard and fast.
Daniel falls head over heels for Emily the second he saw her. Daniel is so supportive of Emily through all her trauma she experiences and decides they need to get away after a tragic event. After their little getaway Daniel finally decides to take her to his family home. His family home is a mansion located a cliff in a New England town. Daniel has a tragic past of his own and together their trying to work through some of their trauma's but things are about to get a lot more interesting!
This home is not what it seems. There are secrets hidden here and you will be taken on one heck of a wild ride! This book will have you questioning everything and everyone. If you want a book that will have you on the edge of your seat and wanting more then this is the perfect thriller for you. I highly recommend this book and anything S.T. Ashman writes.
Thank you S.T. Ashman, NetGalley and ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion,
Emily has such a tragic story. She grew up in a broken household and as an adult she has tried to do everything she can turn her life into something normal and steady. But then she meets Daniel Winthrop who is an heir to a powerful New England dynasty. He sweeps her right off her feet and they fall hard and fast.
Daniel falls head over heels for Emily the second he saw her. Daniel is so supportive of Emily through all her trauma she experiences and decides they need to get away after a tragic event. After their little getaway Daniel finally decides to take her to his family home. His family home is a mansion located a cliff in a New England town. Daniel has a tragic past of his own and together their trying to work through some of their trauma's but things are about to get a lot more interesting!
This home is not what it seems. There are secrets hidden here and you will be taken on one heck of a wild ride! This book will have you questioning everything and everyone. If you want a book that will have you on the edge of your seat and wanting more then this is the perfect thriller for you. I highly recommend this book and anything S.T. Ashman writes.
Thank you S.T. Ashman, NetGalley and ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion,
October 19, 2025
Secrets Like Ours by S.T. Ashman is a must-read! This was my first experience with this author's work, and I can confidently say it won’t be my last. The story kept me guessing the entire time. Other books, I can usually guess what’s coming, this one completely surprised me.
I loved the relationship between Emily and Daniel and rooted for them. But... I found myself questioning Daniel’s motives throughout the book. Without spoiling anything, his secrets made me wonder and kept me on edge. I was rooting for Emily to remember the mysteries of her past, hoping she could find closure and happiness with Daniel.
The setting of The Breaker felt eerie and unsettling, almost like a character in itself. It’s definitely not somewhere I’d want to live or stay! You can't tell if Emily is having hallucinations, if there are ghosts, or if there is an explanation you aren't seeing. The ending was completely unpredictable, I won't give anything away, but...it may or may not surprise you. I'm curious to see what direction other readers will predict.
I can’t wait to read/listen to more of S. T. Ashman’s books, and I’m eager to see how other readers felt about this one. If you enjoy suspense, mystery, and emotional twists, you’ll love this books.
Thank you Netgalley for giving me the privilege of reading/listening to this ARC. #SecretsLikeOurs #NetGalley #S.T.Ashman #VictoryeditingNetgalleyCo-op
I loved the relationship between Emily and Daniel and rooted for them. But... I found myself questioning Daniel’s motives throughout the book. Without spoiling anything, his secrets made me wonder and kept me on edge. I was rooting for Emily to remember the mysteries of her past, hoping she could find closure and happiness with Daniel.
The setting of The Breaker felt eerie and unsettling, almost like a character in itself. It’s definitely not somewhere I’d want to live or stay! You can't tell if Emily is having hallucinations, if there are ghosts, or if there is an explanation you aren't seeing. The ending was completely unpredictable, I won't give anything away, but...it may or may not surprise you. I'm curious to see what direction other readers will predict.
I can’t wait to read/listen to more of S. T. Ashman’s books, and I’m eager to see how other readers felt about this one. If you enjoy suspense, mystery, and emotional twists, you’ll love this books.
Thank you Netgalley for giving me the privilege of reading/listening to this ARC. #SecretsLikeOurs #NetGalley #S.T.Ashman #VictoryeditingNetgalleyCo-op
December 8, 2025
𝗤𝗨𝗜𝗖𝗞 𝗣𝗟𝗢𝗧 𝗣𝗘𝗘𝗞
Emily leaves her past behind when she marries wealthy, handsome Daniel Winthrop and moves into his cliff-side mansion. But the Winthrop legacy is riddled with forbidden wings, insistent warnings and a basement door she mustn’t open.
𝗔𝗨𝗗𝗜𝗢 𝗧𝗔𝗞𝗘
The narrator felt right for Emily. She’s anxious but not breathy, spunky and young. It worked well with Emily's headspace.
𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗬 𝗧𝗔𝗞𝗘
I enjoyed the familiar simplicity of the story - a woman with a troubled past meets a handsome rich guy and marries him. The problem is she doesn’t fully trust her own mind, and the memory gaps and PTSD make her question almost everything including who her husband really is.
It’s very much Emily’s story, and because she has both visual and auditory hallucinations, you’re constantly trying to figure out what’s real alongside her. It gives the whole thing a slightly foggy, unstable feeling in a way that suits the plot.
The house adds to it - the basement she’s not allowed to enter, the strange noises, and her parrot squawking ominous warnings - creepy!
It leans melodramatic, and it’s not aiming for realism, but I didn’t mind that. The ending wraps things up cleanly, and I was happy with the way it resolved.
𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗛 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗?
This quick, twisty thriller is easy to fly through. It totally works if you just want something thrilling without getting too heavy.
Thank you Simon Maverick and NetGalley for this #gifted ARC.
🎧 Narrated by Tiffany Bache
📖 Publishes 12•09•25 | 278 pages | 7h 4m
Emily leaves her past behind when she marries wealthy, handsome Daniel Winthrop and moves into his cliff-side mansion. But the Winthrop legacy is riddled with forbidden wings, insistent warnings and a basement door she mustn’t open.
𝗔𝗨𝗗𝗜𝗢 𝗧𝗔𝗞𝗘
The narrator felt right for Emily. She’s anxious but not breathy, spunky and young. It worked well with Emily's headspace.
𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗬 𝗧𝗔𝗞𝗘
I enjoyed the familiar simplicity of the story - a woman with a troubled past meets a handsome rich guy and marries him. The problem is she doesn’t fully trust her own mind, and the memory gaps and PTSD make her question almost everything including who her husband really is.
It’s very much Emily’s story, and because she has both visual and auditory hallucinations, you’re constantly trying to figure out what’s real alongside her. It gives the whole thing a slightly foggy, unstable feeling in a way that suits the plot.
The house adds to it - the basement she’s not allowed to enter, the strange noises, and her parrot squawking ominous warnings - creepy!
It leans melodramatic, and it’s not aiming for realism, but I didn’t mind that. The ending wraps things up cleanly, and I was happy with the way it resolved.
𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗛 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗?
This quick, twisty thriller is easy to fly through. It totally works if you just want something thrilling without getting too heavy.
Thank you Simon Maverick and NetGalley for this #gifted ARC.
🎧 Narrated by Tiffany Bache
📖 Publishes 12•09•25 | 278 pages | 7h 4m
November 2, 2025
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher, and author S.T. Ashman for the ARC.
Wow! That was completely unexpected and shocking. Throughout this entire book, I kept trying to guess what was going on and clearly, I had no clue because I did not expect what happened. (I’m not spoiling it for anyone, but trust me… jaw = dropped.)
This book messed with my head in the best way. There are secrets… and then there are SECRETS. Like - what!?
Emily grew up in a broken home. Daniel is the heir to a powerful dynasty. Emily has worked so hard to build a better life for herself, and when she meets Daniel, he gives her everything she’s ever wanted. Except… there are secrets. Daniel has secrets. Emily has secrets. Everyone has secrets.
At times I didn’t know if Emily was crazy, dreaming, or losing her mind. I was suspicious of everyone Daniel, Tara, even Hudson. Daniel had me the most suspicious though. Was he poisoning her? Drugging her? Or was it all just one big dream? I had no clue.
Needless to say, I loved this book. The tension, the mystery, the twists - everything kept me hooked until the very last page.
📖 Preorder it now to make sure you get your copy on December 9th!
My review will also be shared on TikTok (@keria1346) and Instagram (@keri_readsbook13) closer to release day.
Wow! That was completely unexpected and shocking. Throughout this entire book, I kept trying to guess what was going on and clearly, I had no clue because I did not expect what happened. (I’m not spoiling it for anyone, but trust me… jaw = dropped.)
This book messed with my head in the best way. There are secrets… and then there are SECRETS. Like - what!?
Emily grew up in a broken home. Daniel is the heir to a powerful dynasty. Emily has worked so hard to build a better life for herself, and when she meets Daniel, he gives her everything she’s ever wanted. Except… there are secrets. Daniel has secrets. Emily has secrets. Everyone has secrets.
At times I didn’t know if Emily was crazy, dreaming, or losing her mind. I was suspicious of everyone Daniel, Tara, even Hudson. Daniel had me the most suspicious though. Was he poisoning her? Drugging her? Or was it all just one big dream? I had no clue.
Needless to say, I loved this book. The tension, the mystery, the twists - everything kept me hooked until the very last page.
📖 Preorder it now to make sure you get your copy on December 9th!
My review will also be shared on TikTok (@keria1346) and Instagram (@keri_readsbook13) closer to release day.
December 1, 2025
(⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 – 3.75/5)
Thank you NetGalley & Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ARC!
Now... about this book
I have to admit, I spent a lot of time being slightly confused (but not in a “this is bad” way, more in a “where are we going with this??” kind of way). And I’m still not sure if “confused” is even the right word... but oh well...
The only thing I was sure of the entire time? Daniel and Emily were sharing some kind of past. Like, buried deep and messy. The rest? I didn’t know who to trust. Emily felt like an unreliable narrator for most of the book and I kept questioning if she was losing it, or if Daniel and the mansion crew were the real problem here. Or maybe both??
Plot-wise: I can’t say it had me gasping every chapter, but it did keep me curious enough to finish. And tbh? Worth it. The end finally put the puzzle together in a very satisfying way.
Still... I’m 50/50 on Daniel. The whole marriage situation felt weirdly selfish? Like, was he doing it for Emily... or for himself? Because the way he remembered their shared history the whole time while she didn’t (until really late) made it look a bit like manipulation (not ill intended, but still).
So yeah...an interesting concept, but I wish I felt a bit less confused in the first half.
Thank you NetGalley & Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ARC!
Now... about this book
I have to admit, I spent a lot of time being slightly confused (but not in a “this is bad” way, more in a “where are we going with this??” kind of way). And I’m still not sure if “confused” is even the right word... but oh well...
The only thing I was sure of the entire time? Daniel and Emily were sharing some kind of past. Like, buried deep and messy. The rest? I didn’t know who to trust. Emily felt like an unreliable narrator for most of the book and I kept questioning if she was losing it, or if Daniel and the mansion crew were the real problem here. Or maybe both??
Plot-wise: I can’t say it had me gasping every chapter, but it did keep me curious enough to finish. And tbh? Worth it. The end finally put the puzzle together in a very satisfying way.
Still... I’m 50/50 on Daniel. The whole marriage situation felt weirdly selfish? Like, was he doing it for Emily... or for himself? Because the way he remembered their shared history the whole time while she didn’t (until really late) made it look a bit like manipulation (not ill intended, but still).
So yeah...an interesting concept, but I wish I felt a bit less confused in the first half.
December 24, 2025
Secrets Like Ours by S. T. Ashman
Thanks to the ALC program by @librofm I had the incredible opportunity to meet Ashman’s writing and I can only say how amazed I am by her talent!
It’s quite complex for me to express what I have just experienced. I went blind into this novel and suddenly I was taken to a dark, dark place, a place I didn’t even know it was real.
I started reading faster, trying to catch up with what was going on. It was impossible. So without any hope, I allowed the novel to swallow me whole.
I was not prepared for this experience and I want to write all my feelings right now. Fresh. Raw. Unbiased.
Ashman is such a talented, gifted writer! I am amazed beyond words. This story should be everywhere, in every feed. I definitely feel that it’s not hyped enough.
For all thriller lovers like me, you’ll find all the gothic elements to make this novel worth binging. We have unreliable narrators, madness, supernatural events, the uncanny is everywhere and a unique writing style.
This is a gem! I’ve found a gem! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
@booksbyashman @librofm One of the best 2025!
Favorite Quote:
🖤“Her life had been tragic, no doubt, but that didn’t give her the right to drag other lives into her darkness”🖤
Thanks to the ALC program by @librofm I had the incredible opportunity to meet Ashman’s writing and I can only say how amazed I am by her talent!
It’s quite complex for me to express what I have just experienced. I went blind into this novel and suddenly I was taken to a dark, dark place, a place I didn’t even know it was real.
I started reading faster, trying to catch up with what was going on. It was impossible. So without any hope, I allowed the novel to swallow me whole.
I was not prepared for this experience and I want to write all my feelings right now. Fresh. Raw. Unbiased.
Ashman is such a talented, gifted writer! I am amazed beyond words. This story should be everywhere, in every feed. I definitely feel that it’s not hyped enough.
For all thriller lovers like me, you’ll find all the gothic elements to make this novel worth binging. We have unreliable narrators, madness, supernatural events, the uncanny is everywhere and a unique writing style.
This is a gem! I’ve found a gem! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
@booksbyashman @librofm One of the best 2025!
Favorite Quote:
🖤“Her life had been tragic, no doubt, but that didn’t give her the right to drag other lives into her darkness”🖤
December 11, 2025
I was excited to see a new book from this author, and while it’s not my absolute favorite of hers, it’s still a gripping, atmospheric ride. The setting is everything here — a mansion perched on New England cliffs, crashing waves, and a literal storm closing in. The vibe alone had me hooked.
Emily moves into the Winthrop estate with her new husband, Daniel… and immediately gets hit with rules: don’t wander at night, don’t ask about the west wing, and absolutely don’t open the basement door. Totally normal newlywed stuff, right?
What really worked for me was the uncertainty. With Emily’s mental health struggles and strange things happening all over the house, you’re constantly wondering whether she’s unreliable — or whether the Winthrops and their staff are hiding something huge. The mental-health element is handled thoughtfully, and it adds great tension.
There are secrets everywhere, weird noises, cryptic employees, and enough red flags waving in this mansion to start a parade. The twists come fast, and I genuinely didn’t know where the story would land.
Short version: eerie, tense, twisty, and packed with that “trust no one” energy.
Emily moves into the Winthrop estate with her new husband, Daniel… and immediately gets hit with rules: don’t wander at night, don’t ask about the west wing, and absolutely don’t open the basement door. Totally normal newlywed stuff, right?
What really worked for me was the uncertainty. With Emily’s mental health struggles and strange things happening all over the house, you’re constantly wondering whether she’s unreliable — or whether the Winthrops and their staff are hiding something huge. The mental-health element is handled thoughtfully, and it adds great tension.
There are secrets everywhere, weird noises, cryptic employees, and enough red flags waving in this mansion to start a parade. The twists come fast, and I genuinely didn’t know where the story would land.
Short version: eerie, tense, twisty, and packed with that “trust no one” energy.
December 1, 2025
Well I didn’t see that coming 😳
Emily struggles with her mental health every day, as a result of terrible traumas she experienced as a child. She battles through life as best she can, until she is swept off her feet by a very wealthy man, Daniel.
Daniel is reluctant to talk about his family and when they finally do visit his family home, it is clear that something is very wrong. Emily is told not to go into the basement and there are whispers amongst the staff.
Mochi, Emily’s rescue bird, is the star of the show here, providing love, humour and ultimately, leading her to the truth, by repeating everything he hears!
There is a LOT to uncover and I was very confused about a lot of it, if I’m honest. The ending wrapped up much of it and there were some unexpected and mind blowing twists, but I don’t feel that everything was fully resolved or explained and I have a lot of questions!
Three stars for the book and an extra one for Mochi!
4 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, S.T. Ashman and Victory for an ARC of this book.
Emily struggles with her mental health every day, as a result of terrible traumas she experienced as a child. She battles through life as best she can, until she is swept off her feet by a very wealthy man, Daniel.
Daniel is reluctant to talk about his family and when they finally do visit his family home, it is clear that something is very wrong. Emily is told not to go into the basement and there are whispers amongst the staff.
Mochi, Emily’s rescue bird, is the star of the show here, providing love, humour and ultimately, leading her to the truth, by repeating everything he hears!
There is a LOT to uncover and I was very confused about a lot of it, if I’m honest. The ending wrapped up much of it and there were some unexpected and mind blowing twists, but I don’t feel that everything was fully resolved or explained and I have a lot of questions!
Three stars for the book and an extra one for Mochi!
4 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, S.T. Ashman and Victory for an ARC of this book.
December 19, 2025
Secrets Like Ours completely pulled me in and refused to let go. This is one of those stories that feels intimate and emotional, where the tension isn’t just about what’s happening, but about what the characters are hiding from each other—and from themselves.
At its heart, this book is about connection, trust, and the cost of buried truths. The characters feel real and layered, carrying past experiences that shape every decision they make. I loved how the author slowly unraveled their secrets rather than laying everything out at once; it made each reveal hit harder and feel earned. The emotional beats are strong, and the relationship development felt natural, messy, and deeply human.
The writing itself is smooth and engaging, with just enough intensity to keep the pages turning while still leaving room for quiet, reflective moments. I found myself pausing to sit with certain scenes, especially when the characters were forced to confront feelings they’d been avoiding. It’s a story that balances romance with emotional depth really well.
At its heart, this book is about connection, trust, and the cost of buried truths. The characters feel real and layered, carrying past experiences that shape every decision they make. I loved how the author slowly unraveled their secrets rather than laying everything out at once; it made each reveal hit harder and feel earned. The emotional beats are strong, and the relationship development felt natural, messy, and deeply human.
The writing itself is smooth and engaging, with just enough intensity to keep the pages turning while still leaving room for quiet, reflective moments. I found myself pausing to sit with certain scenes, especially when the characters were forced to confront feelings they’d been avoiding. It’s a story that balances romance with emotional depth really well.
October 24, 2025
I want to thank Netgalley and Victory Co-Op for this ARC copy in exchange for my review. Wow, what a book! After reading this, I see why it has so many five-star reviews. This is an incredibly well written thriller that keeps you guessing all the way to the end. This book will be hard to put down, no matter how late it gets, and no matter how tired your eyes get.
Our main character, Emily, suffers from PTSD due to horrible things she went through in her childhood. Now, as an adult, she suffers from nightmares and hallucinations, not knowing what is real and what isn't.
As the story progresses, you're not sure if the people in her life are trying to help her or make her think she is crazy. Especially her husband. Does he really have her best interests at heart? The story has a pretty amazing ending that is not typical, and I didn't figure it out at all. If you're looking for a really good thrilling book to read, this is the one to get.
Our main character, Emily, suffers from PTSD due to horrible things she went through in her childhood. Now, as an adult, she suffers from nightmares and hallucinations, not knowing what is real and what isn't.
As the story progresses, you're not sure if the people in her life are trying to help her or make her think she is crazy. Especially her husband. Does he really have her best interests at heart? The story has a pretty amazing ending that is not typical, and I didn't figure it out at all. If you're looking for a really good thrilling book to read, this is the one to get.
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