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The Art Of Keeping Secrets
Little secrets grow up to be big lies…
They’ve been best friends since their sons started high school together, and Felicity, Emma and Neve share everything … or so they thought.
But Flick’s seemingly perfect marriage hides a shocking secret which, with one word, threatens to destroy her and her family’s happiness. Emma is in denial about a potential custody battle, her financial constraints, the exhaustion she can’t seem to shake off and the inappropriate feelings she has for her boss. And single mum Neve is harbouring a secret of her own; a secret that might forever damage her close-knit relationship with her son.
When the tight hold they have each kept on their secrets for years begins to slip, they must face the truth. Even if that truth has the power to hurt the ones they love, and each other.
Perhaps some secrets weren’t made to be kept.
464 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2016
101 people are currently reading
2023 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 273 reviews
June 1, 2017
This was my first book by Rachael Johns and it will certainly not be my last! It's a great story about three life long friends who think they know each other so well and then find they each have one huge secret they have not shared.
This was a book that was really hard to put down. The chapters rotated between the POVs of the three main characters, which had the effect of keeping things moving really fast. In the end it was Flick who had the most insoluble of the three issues. There could be no fairy tale ending for a situation like hers.
I enjoyed all of the characters, both the main ones and the lesser ones of some of the children and the ex partners. The author wrote them well and, although there was a lot of drama, held back from going over the top. Towards the end I reached for the tissues. There were happy tears and sad ones too and an honest ending.
I liked it very much and will be looking out for more of her books.
This was a book that was really hard to put down. The chapters rotated between the POVs of the three main characters, which had the effect of keeping things moving really fast. In the end it was Flick who had the most insoluble of the three issues. There could be no fairy tale ending for a situation like hers.
I enjoyed all of the characters, both the main ones and the lesser ones of some of the children and the ex partners. The author wrote them well and, although there was a lot of drama, held back from going over the top. Towards the end I reached for the tissues. There were happy tears and sad ones too and an honest ending.
I liked it very much and will be looking out for more of her books.
September 12, 2016
For the past five years Flick, Emma and Neve had been best friends; meeting to chat about their reading once a month had been the beginning then gradually their friendship settled into a comfortable and well-oiled knowledge of each other. There was rarely a day go by when they didn’t speak or text one another – they knew each other’s families, dramas and foibles inside out.
Emma was a single mother after Max had left her for a younger woman; her son Caleb was friends with Neve’s son Will and Flick’s son Troy. Her twin daughters Sarah and Laura were almost fifteen, while Flick’s daughter Zoe was twenty and preparing for her marriage to Beau. Neve had been a single mother since Will’s birth; the two of them were extremely close. And Flick’s friends were envious of her relationship with her husband Seb – he was always kind and attentive to them and idolised Flick.
So why was it that suddenly cracks began to appear in the relationships surrounding the three friends? Will’s innocent request of his mother started a chain of events which could damage their closeness, while Emma’s bitterness and financial distress were a constant strain. And Flick’s surface calm was threatening to explode – what were the torturous, dark secrets that Flick, Emma and Neve held, which none of them were aware of?
Aussie author Rachael Johns has done it again with The Art of Keeping Secrets! A moving, emotional rendition of the lives of three families; their interactions, secrets and lies; as well as courage, hope, love and laughter – all tied together with a deep and enduring bond of friendship. I did feel the end was a little rushed; a little unresolved - but it wasn’t enough to avoid a 5 star rating from me! I thoroughly enjoy this author’s work, and The Art of Keeping Secrets was no exception. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
Emma was a single mother after Max had left her for a younger woman; her son Caleb was friends with Neve’s son Will and Flick’s son Troy. Her twin daughters Sarah and Laura were almost fifteen, while Flick’s daughter Zoe was twenty and preparing for her marriage to Beau. Neve had been a single mother since Will’s birth; the two of them were extremely close. And Flick’s friends were envious of her relationship with her husband Seb – he was always kind and attentive to them and idolised Flick.
So why was it that suddenly cracks began to appear in the relationships surrounding the three friends? Will’s innocent request of his mother started a chain of events which could damage their closeness, while Emma’s bitterness and financial distress were a constant strain. And Flick’s surface calm was threatening to explode – what were the torturous, dark secrets that Flick, Emma and Neve held, which none of them were aware of?
Aussie author Rachael Johns has done it again with The Art of Keeping Secrets! A moving, emotional rendition of the lives of three families; their interactions, secrets and lies; as well as courage, hope, love and laughter – all tied together with a deep and enduring bond of friendship. I did feel the end was a little rushed; a little unresolved - but it wasn’t enough to avoid a 5 star rating from me! I thoroughly enjoy this author’s work, and The Art of Keeping Secrets was no exception. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
May 13, 2025
EXCERPT: In many ways Neve and Will were closer than most mothers and sons because they were all the other had ever had, but she'd learnt over the years that he closed up if she pried too much.
Hoping he couldn't hear the thumping of her heart, she took a bite of her cake. If Stacey was pregnant, she'd stand by them both; none of this forcing them to get married. Granted she didn't feel old enough to be a grandmother, but nor had she planned on being a single mum and that had turned out all right.
Finally, after he'd almost devoured the cake, Will said, 'I want to meet my dad.'
ABOUT 'THE ART OF KEEPING SECRETS': Little secrets grow up to be big lies…
They’ve been best friends since their sons started high school together, and Felicity, Emma and Neve share everything … or so they thought.
But Flick’s seemingly perfect marriage hides a shocking secret which, with one word, threatens to destroy her and her family’s happiness. Emma is in denial about a potential custody battle, her financial constraints, the exhaustion she can’t seem to shake off and the inappropriate feelings she has for her boss. And single mum Neve is harbouring a secret of her own; a secret that might forever damage her close-knit relationship with her son.
When the tight hold they have each kept on their secrets for years begins to slip, they must face the truth. Even if that truth has the power to hurt the ones they love, and each other.
Perhaps some secrets weren’t made to be kept.
MY THOUGHTS: . . . their lives were a shambles. Someone could write a book about them.' - and someone did. Thank you, Rachael Johns, for such a fun, emotional and moving depiction of the lives of three families as what they thought they knew crumbles around their feet.
Such a web of secrets and lies! They're all guilty, perhaps Emma least of all, but even she is hiding something . . .
There is a strong theme of friendship in The Art of Keeping Secrets, and I loved the way the three women were mostly (there are a few hiccups) there for one another. Their friendship is, alongside their families, the constant in their lives.
The story is told from the alternating points of view of Flick (Felicity), Emma, and Neve (Genevieve) as they scramble to be strong in the face of their own troubles while supporting the others through their own heartaches. There are plenty of humorous and heartwarming moments to balance the sad and the tragic.
This is not some silly, frivolous or dramatically OTT novel, but one where both the characters and their problems are relatable. Johns drops tantalizing hints to the nature of the problems early in the book and builds on this, slowly revealing each secret separately for full impact.
I enjoyed this a lot and will be looking for the follow-up - How to Mend a Broken Heart.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.2
#TheArtofKeepingSecrets #NatGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: Rachael Johns is an English teacher by trade, a mum 24/7, a Diet Coke addict, a cat lover and chronic arachnophobe. She rarely sleeps and never irons.
She's been writing since she was 17 when she broke up with her first boyfriend when she turned to writing as a form of therapy for her broken heart. It was enlightening to realise that with writing she could create whatever ending she liked.
Rachael lives in the Swan Valley with her hyperactive husband, three mostly-gorgeous heroes-in-training, two ravenous cats, a cantankerous bird and a very badly-behaved dog.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harlequin Australia, TEEN MIRA, via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Art of Keeping Secrets by Rachael Johns for review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own personal opinions.
Hoping he couldn't hear the thumping of her heart, she took a bite of her cake. If Stacey was pregnant, she'd stand by them both; none of this forcing them to get married. Granted she didn't feel old enough to be a grandmother, but nor had she planned on being a single mum and that had turned out all right.
Finally, after he'd almost devoured the cake, Will said, 'I want to meet my dad.'
ABOUT 'THE ART OF KEEPING SECRETS': Little secrets grow up to be big lies…
They’ve been best friends since their sons started high school together, and Felicity, Emma and Neve share everything … or so they thought.
But Flick’s seemingly perfect marriage hides a shocking secret which, with one word, threatens to destroy her and her family’s happiness. Emma is in denial about a potential custody battle, her financial constraints, the exhaustion she can’t seem to shake off and the inappropriate feelings she has for her boss. And single mum Neve is harbouring a secret of her own; a secret that might forever damage her close-knit relationship with her son.
When the tight hold they have each kept on their secrets for years begins to slip, they must face the truth. Even if that truth has the power to hurt the ones they love, and each other.
Perhaps some secrets weren’t made to be kept.
MY THOUGHTS: . . . their lives were a shambles. Someone could write a book about them.' - and someone did. Thank you, Rachael Johns, for such a fun, emotional and moving depiction of the lives of three families as what they thought they knew crumbles around their feet.
Such a web of secrets and lies! They're all guilty, perhaps Emma least of all, but even she is hiding something . . .
There is a strong theme of friendship in The Art of Keeping Secrets, and I loved the way the three women were mostly (there are a few hiccups) there for one another. Their friendship is, alongside their families, the constant in their lives.
The story is told from the alternating points of view of Flick (Felicity), Emma, and Neve (Genevieve) as they scramble to be strong in the face of their own troubles while supporting the others through their own heartaches. There are plenty of humorous and heartwarming moments to balance the sad and the tragic.
This is not some silly, frivolous or dramatically OTT novel, but one where both the characters and their problems are relatable. Johns drops tantalizing hints to the nature of the problems early in the book and builds on this, slowly revealing each secret separately for full impact.
I enjoyed this a lot and will be looking for the follow-up - How to Mend a Broken Heart.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.2
#TheArtofKeepingSecrets #NatGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: Rachael Johns is an English teacher by trade, a mum 24/7, a Diet Coke addict, a cat lover and chronic arachnophobe. She rarely sleeps and never irons.
She's been writing since she was 17 when she broke up with her first boyfriend when she turned to writing as a form of therapy for her broken heart. It was enlightening to realise that with writing she could create whatever ending she liked.
Rachael lives in the Swan Valley with her hyperactive husband, three mostly-gorgeous heroes-in-training, two ravenous cats, a cantankerous bird and a very badly-behaved dog.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harlequin Australia, TEEN MIRA, via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Art of Keeping Secrets by Rachael Johns for review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own personal opinions.
August 2, 2017
The Art of Keeping Secrets is about three friends Felicity, Emma and Genevieve who were keeping secrets from their friends and family. However, the secrets were wearing the three friends down and affect everyone around them. Readers of The Art of Keeping Secrets will follow how Felicity, Emma and Genevieve's secrets were revealed and how they cope with the consequences.
For me, The Art of Keeping Secrets is not one of my favourite Rachael Johns books. I not sure why but I did not get involved with the plot of The Art Of Keeping Secrets. I did like the way Rachael Johns structured The Art of Keeping Secrets by dedicated a chapter to each of them. I enjoyed the way Rachael Johns portrayed and entwine her characters in The Art of Keeping Secrets. Rachael Johns did a great job describing the problems that people go through when they go through gender transition.
Readers of The Art of Keeping Secrets will learn the consequences of keeping secrets for everyone involved. The Art of Keeping Secrets highlights the importance of friendships for everyone. Readers of The Art of Keeping Secrets will learn that not all brain tumours are cancerous.
I recommend this book.
For me, The Art of Keeping Secrets is not one of my favourite Rachael Johns books. I not sure why but I did not get involved with the plot of The Art Of Keeping Secrets. I did like the way Rachael Johns structured The Art of Keeping Secrets by dedicated a chapter to each of them. I enjoyed the way Rachael Johns portrayed and entwine her characters in The Art of Keeping Secrets. Rachael Johns did a great job describing the problems that people go through when they go through gender transition.
Readers of The Art of Keeping Secrets will learn the consequences of keeping secrets for everyone involved. The Art of Keeping Secrets highlights the importance of friendships for everyone. Readers of The Art of Keeping Secrets will learn that not all brain tumours are cancerous.
I recommend this book.
December 18, 2016
The Art of Keeping Secrets was my first Rachael Johns novel.
As the title and the blurb indicate, this novel is about three women friends, all in their early forties. They're all busy, working mums. Felicity, aka Flick, is a taxidermist, married to a lovely man, and has two kids. From the outside, their life is perfect. But there is one big secret that's been driving Felicity crazy.
Emma is divorced and the mother of three teenagers. She's struggling and is constantly exhausted.
Genevive, aka Neve, is a make-up and hair artist and a single mum to Will. She's been lying to her son and parents for a long time.
When Neve decides to go to New York to right the huge mistake she made eighteen years earlier, Flick and Emma accompany her. Lots of things happen while they're in New York.
I can't say too much more because it will spoil it for you.
I will just say that the characters' struggles are relatable. The power of female friendship is at the centre of this novel. I enjoyed reading a novel set mostly in Perth.
The writing is accessible, without many flourishes. Each friend is given relatively equal air time, so we get to become very familiar with their inner thoughts.
This has been an enjoyable novel, filled with emotional moments, without being melodramatic or saccharine-y.
I've received this novel via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to the publishers, Harlequin, for the opportunity to read and review this novel.
:Cover: 4.5 stars
As the title and the blurb indicate, this novel is about three women friends, all in their early forties. They're all busy, working mums. Felicity, aka Flick, is a taxidermist, married to a lovely man, and has two kids. From the outside, their life is perfect. But there is one big secret that's been driving Felicity crazy.
Emma is divorced and the mother of three teenagers. She's struggling and is constantly exhausted.
Genevive, aka Neve, is a make-up and hair artist and a single mum to Will. She's been lying to her son and parents for a long time.
When Neve decides to go to New York to right the huge mistake she made eighteen years earlier, Flick and Emma accompany her. Lots of things happen while they're in New York.
I can't say too much more because it will spoil it for you.
I will just say that the characters' struggles are relatable. The power of female friendship is at the centre of this novel. I enjoyed reading a novel set mostly in Perth.
The writing is accessible, without many flourishes. Each friend is given relatively equal air time, so we get to become very familiar with their inner thoughts.
This has been an enjoyable novel, filled with emotional moments, without being melodramatic or saccharine-y.
I've received this novel via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to the publishers, Harlequin, for the opportunity to read and review this novel.
:Cover: 4.5 stars
September 7, 2016
What price do we pay when we deceive those we love?
In this latest by Rachael Johns, she attempts to answer that question by delving into the lives of three very different women who, while united by friendship, are all keeping secrets.
Flick has a picture-perfect marriage and family envied by most but she harbours a shocking secret that has become her life because, if it ever comes out, her little family may just be shattered; Neve’s been a single mother all of Toby’s life and it’s her own secret (and guilt) that’s going to catch up with her when Toby becomes more persistent in his questioning; and Emma, a divorcee and mother of three finds herself with growing feelings towards her boss but is then suddenly faced with some life-changing health issues.
Told from the perspectives of all three women, there is something here for everyone in a story about the damage we suffer when we hide the truth and the consequences that secrets can have on the ones we love. Flick’s story is the most compelling with its shock factor, while Neve’s will keep the reader holding their breath and Emma’s offers us hope.
Rachael Johns never disappoints and I’m really enjoying the deviation that her writing seems to have taken. In her previous novel, The Patterson Girls, Rachael explored sisterhood, sibling rivalry and the unbreakable bonds called family ties along with real-life issues such as bereavement, infidelity and fertility issues.
In this latest, she drills a little deeper, going into the lives of three friends and their families whose existence will be forever altered as they are forced to deal with not only their own secrets but those they have become privy to and all the crises they bring – and there are no holds barred here as she puts these characters through the wringer, adeptly advancing them to their breaking points!
With all the messiness of real life, the intricacies and limits of marriage and the depth of love and friendship, The Art of Keeping Secrets is a complex and tumultuous story with moments of tear-jerking catharsis, for both the reader and the characters, as emotions and years of hidden feelings bubble to the surface.
Touching on motherhood, friendship, relationships, secrets, lies, betrayal and the love that binds all of these together, Rachael’s ability to capture the emotional realities of life is to be much-admired in this toast to the power of women’s friendships. Highly recommended.
As an aside, this is one story that I believe would be FABULOUS on the big-screen so I thought I'd create my own little playlist. Who knows, should it make it, hopefully some of these songs would be featured:
Crash (Usher), Secrets (One Republic), Demons (Imagine Dragons), Sweet Disposition (The Temper Trap), Love the Way You Lie (Rihanna), New York, New York (Frank Sinatra), Fight Song (Rachel Platten), Skyscraper (Demi Lovato), Say Something (A Great Big World/Christina Aguielera), Fix You (Coldplay), Firework (Katy Perry), I Can See Clearly Now (Johnny Cash), I Will Always Love You (Whitney Houston), Use Somebody (Kings of Leon), Haven’t Met You Yet (Michael Buble), Don’t Speak (No Doubt), Carry on (Fun), Brave (Sara Bareilles), New York (Snow Patrol), True Colours (Cyndi Lauper) and Goodbye My Lover (James Blunt).
In this latest by Rachael Johns, she attempts to answer that question by delving into the lives of three very different women who, while united by friendship, are all keeping secrets.
Flick has a picture-perfect marriage and family envied by most but she harbours a shocking secret that has become her life because, if it ever comes out, her little family may just be shattered; Neve’s been a single mother all of Toby’s life and it’s her own secret (and guilt) that’s going to catch up with her when Toby becomes more persistent in his questioning; and Emma, a divorcee and mother of three finds herself with growing feelings towards her boss but is then suddenly faced with some life-changing health issues.
Told from the perspectives of all three women, there is something here for everyone in a story about the damage we suffer when we hide the truth and the consequences that secrets can have on the ones we love. Flick’s story is the most compelling with its shock factor, while Neve’s will keep the reader holding their breath and Emma’s offers us hope.
Rachael Johns never disappoints and I’m really enjoying the deviation that her writing seems to have taken. In her previous novel, The Patterson Girls, Rachael explored sisterhood, sibling rivalry and the unbreakable bonds called family ties along with real-life issues such as bereavement, infidelity and fertility issues.
In this latest, she drills a little deeper, going into the lives of three friends and their families whose existence will be forever altered as they are forced to deal with not only their own secrets but those they have become privy to and all the crises they bring – and there are no holds barred here as she puts these characters through the wringer, adeptly advancing them to their breaking points!
With all the messiness of real life, the intricacies and limits of marriage and the depth of love and friendship, The Art of Keeping Secrets is a complex and tumultuous story with moments of tear-jerking catharsis, for both the reader and the characters, as emotions and years of hidden feelings bubble to the surface.
Touching on motherhood, friendship, relationships, secrets, lies, betrayal and the love that binds all of these together, Rachael’s ability to capture the emotional realities of life is to be much-admired in this toast to the power of women’s friendships. Highly recommended.
As an aside, this is one story that I believe would be FABULOUS on the big-screen so I thought I'd create my own little playlist. Who knows, should it make it, hopefully some of these songs would be featured:
Crash (Usher), Secrets (One Republic), Demons (Imagine Dragons), Sweet Disposition (The Temper Trap), Love the Way You Lie (Rihanna), New York, New York (Frank Sinatra), Fight Song (Rachel Platten), Skyscraper (Demi Lovato), Say Something (A Great Big World/Christina Aguielera), Fix You (Coldplay), Firework (Katy Perry), I Can See Clearly Now (Johnny Cash), I Will Always Love You (Whitney Houston), Use Somebody (Kings of Leon), Haven’t Met You Yet (Michael Buble), Don’t Speak (No Doubt), Carry on (Fun), Brave (Sara Bareilles), New York (Snow Patrol), True Colours (Cyndi Lauper) and Goodbye My Lover (James Blunt).
September 19, 2016
Rachael Johns enthrals her readers yet again with her second foray into the contemporary life literature genre with the release of her newest book, The Art Of Keeping Secrets. I am so glad Rachael Johns has decided to take this direction in her writing, as I really do believe that she has the knack for conveying issues close to women’s hearts.
At the core of The Art Of Keeping Secrets are three very close knit female friends, Emma, Flick and Neve. Their friendship is rock solid, having developed when their children entered high school together. It is obvious as soon as the story opens, that the three women share a special bond. It seems from the outset that these women know each other’s ins, outs and unique quirks. However, what they don’t know is each of them is harbouring a pretty big secret, that will rock the very foundations of their current lives. Neve gets the ball rolling on the secret front when she drops a big bombshell regarding the identity to the father of her child. This leads the trio on a whirlwind trip from Australia to New York, where more secrets are confessed.
Rachael Johns never fails to wow me with her novels and The Art Of Keeping Secrets is certainly no exception. The Art Of Keeping Secrets is Johns second offering in the life literature genre and it clearly highlights Johns strength as a writer. Johns tackles some contemporary and very relatable subjects in this novel from love, marriage, affairs, separation, divorce and single parenting, to career choices. These are balanced with the overarching theme of the novel which is based on airing out long held secrets. The secrets, when they come, are pretty explosive. One secret in particular had me drawing my breath in from complete disbelief. I even re-read the passages, as it was a shock that I definitely didn’t see coming. Johns manages to tantalise her readers this way for the majority of the novel, gradually revealing pieces to a bigger puzzle surrounding the secrets these women hold. It was a big drawcard for me, as it wiled me to turn the pages as fast as I could and also prevented me from putting the book down. Readers will find the combination of natural and relatable dialogue, along with characters that are realistically drawn, but with flaws any person can sympathise with, greatly appealing. Although The Art Of Keeping Secrets does not have a rural feel, I would have to say I enjoyed this novel just as much as the rural romances Johns is famous for. The movement in setting from Australia to the States was covered well by Johns. I loved the feel of being a sidekick on the trio’s big trip to New York, it was most enjoyable reading experience. Fans new and old will also appreciate Johns flair for romance which was a captivating feature of the novel.
There is no doubt Johns can spin a fantastic yarn around the bonds of female friendship and the knocks life deals out for the everyday woman. The Art Of Keeping Secrets is another very successful and memorable addition to the Rachael Johns collection.
*Please note that a free copy of this book was provided to me for review purposes through Beauty and Lace. To read the original review on the Beauty and Lace website view it here: http://bookgirl.beautyandlace.net/boo...
At the core of The Art Of Keeping Secrets are three very close knit female friends, Emma, Flick and Neve. Their friendship is rock solid, having developed when their children entered high school together. It is obvious as soon as the story opens, that the three women share a special bond. It seems from the outset that these women know each other’s ins, outs and unique quirks. However, what they don’t know is each of them is harbouring a pretty big secret, that will rock the very foundations of their current lives. Neve gets the ball rolling on the secret front when she drops a big bombshell regarding the identity to the father of her child. This leads the trio on a whirlwind trip from Australia to New York, where more secrets are confessed.
Rachael Johns never fails to wow me with her novels and The Art Of Keeping Secrets is certainly no exception. The Art Of Keeping Secrets is Johns second offering in the life literature genre and it clearly highlights Johns strength as a writer. Johns tackles some contemporary and very relatable subjects in this novel from love, marriage, affairs, separation, divorce and single parenting, to career choices. These are balanced with the overarching theme of the novel which is based on airing out long held secrets. The secrets, when they come, are pretty explosive. One secret in particular had me drawing my breath in from complete disbelief. I even re-read the passages, as it was a shock that I definitely didn’t see coming. Johns manages to tantalise her readers this way for the majority of the novel, gradually revealing pieces to a bigger puzzle surrounding the secrets these women hold. It was a big drawcard for me, as it wiled me to turn the pages as fast as I could and also prevented me from putting the book down. Readers will find the combination of natural and relatable dialogue, along with characters that are realistically drawn, but with flaws any person can sympathise with, greatly appealing. Although The Art Of Keeping Secrets does not have a rural feel, I would have to say I enjoyed this novel just as much as the rural romances Johns is famous for. The movement in setting from Australia to the States was covered well by Johns. I loved the feel of being a sidekick on the trio’s big trip to New York, it was most enjoyable reading experience. Fans new and old will also appreciate Johns flair for romance which was a captivating feature of the novel.
There is no doubt Johns can spin a fantastic yarn around the bonds of female friendship and the knocks life deals out for the everyday woman. The Art Of Keeping Secrets is another very successful and memorable addition to the Rachael Johns collection.
*Please note that a free copy of this book was provided to me for review purposes through Beauty and Lace. To read the original review on the Beauty and Lace website view it here: http://bookgirl.beautyandlace.net/boo...
October 6, 2021
I was sent How to Mend a Broken Heart for review and heard it is a sequel to The Art of Keeping Secrets and was pleased to find that I had this on my shelf waiting to be read.
Rachael states that How to Mend a Broken Heart can be read as a standalone and I agree but I am so glad I read The Art of Keeping Secrets first as I got to know Felicity (Flick) and feel the relationship she had with her best friends Genevieve (Neve) and Emma.
So onto my review....
Rachael Johns has read a compelling story of friendship, heartache, courage and motherhood.
Three friends, Flick, Neve and Emma are always there for each other but simmering secrets and lies may tear that friendship apart. Through these three women we negotiate marriage breakup, the problems of single parenthood, a mother's penchant for putting their own health second and how we keep secrets to protect those we love.
Through all the trauma and heartache there is a fabulous trip to New York where the three women find that friendship is give and take and everything isn't always as it seems on the surface.
The Art of Keeping Secrets is a fabulous story about the strength of female friendships as all three women deal with situations that will alter their lives forever. Told through the perspective of each of the women, it's about having the courage to be yourself and how one person's actions has the potential to hurt others. It is a story of endings and new beginnings but ultimately it's a story about the power and support that females offer each other in the form of unconditional friendship.
Rachael states that How to Mend a Broken Heart can be read as a standalone and I agree but I am so glad I read The Art of Keeping Secrets first as I got to know Felicity (Flick) and feel the relationship she had with her best friends Genevieve (Neve) and Emma.
So onto my review....
Rachael Johns has read a compelling story of friendship, heartache, courage and motherhood.
Three friends, Flick, Neve and Emma are always there for each other but simmering secrets and lies may tear that friendship apart. Through these three women we negotiate marriage breakup, the problems of single parenthood, a mother's penchant for putting their own health second and how we keep secrets to protect those we love.
Through all the trauma and heartache there is a fabulous trip to New York where the three women find that friendship is give and take and everything isn't always as it seems on the surface.
The Art of Keeping Secrets is a fabulous story about the strength of female friendships as all three women deal with situations that will alter their lives forever. Told through the perspective of each of the women, it's about having the courage to be yourself and how one person's actions has the potential to hurt others. It is a story of endings and new beginnings but ultimately it's a story about the power and support that females offer each other in the form of unconditional friendship.
October 28, 2016
I have to say that I have never, ever, read a bad Rachael Johns book. Each time I finish reading one I think wow she can’t get any better – but then I pick up the next one – and she does. THE ART OF KEEPING SECRETS is so fabulous that I read until the wee small hours to finish it, and my husband had to heat us up leftovers for dinner for two nights as I wanted to read rather than cook!!!
See more of my review here
See more of my review here
September 26, 2016
Racheal Johns has written an engaging and thought provoking book about three friends and the secrets they have unshared. They are really very involved in each others lives, yet they don't know everything that is going on for each of them - yet.
Three women - Felicity married to Seb, with two children, Zoe about to be married and a seventeen year old son. Seb is a loving attentive husband, the other two women Emma and Neve somewhat envy the happy married life. But what they don't know is that something is going down to change the relationship Felicity and Seb have. In spite of the love between them, it may not be enough.
Emma is a divorced women coping with three teenage children and an ex husband and his young wife that has replaced her. Max gives the children everything, and Emma struggles to work and pay the way of herself and the children with little support from the ex. And what is worse the stress is getting to her and headaches are plaguing every step she takes.
Neve, has one son - Will. She has brought Will up alone, and now he wants to know who is father is. The trouble is she has told Will his father did not want him, however now she is faced with having to face up to the man she has never told that he has a son. She is at risk of losing her son when he discovers the truth.
In turn the story focuses on each woman and the struggles she faces. However they are all very much there for each other, in spite of some differences of opinions. And eventually secrets will out. And when it is tough going they are there for each other. The theme of friendship is strong.
Each woman must find her way forward for her, while friends are there for you, in the end each must take those brave steps on their own. While I don't want to give the plot away, other than to say its very on point, I'll just say that I was so delighted to see Felicity finally take the heartbreaking step that would ensure she stay true to herself.
Kudos to Rachael Johns for this book, exploring a topic that has only recently come to the fore a lot more. Not telling what though, that would be to spoil the finding out.
Three women - Felicity married to Seb, with two children, Zoe about to be married and a seventeen year old son. Seb is a loving attentive husband, the other two women Emma and Neve somewhat envy the happy married life. But what they don't know is that something is going down to change the relationship Felicity and Seb have. In spite of the love between them, it may not be enough.
Emma is a divorced women coping with three teenage children and an ex husband and his young wife that has replaced her. Max gives the children everything, and Emma struggles to work and pay the way of herself and the children with little support from the ex. And what is worse the stress is getting to her and headaches are plaguing every step she takes.
Neve, has one son - Will. She has brought Will up alone, and now he wants to know who is father is. The trouble is she has told Will his father did not want him, however now she is faced with having to face up to the man she has never told that he has a son. She is at risk of losing her son when he discovers the truth.
In turn the story focuses on each woman and the struggles she faces. However they are all very much there for each other, in spite of some differences of opinions. And eventually secrets will out. And when it is tough going they are there for each other. The theme of friendship is strong.
Each woman must find her way forward for her, while friends are there for you, in the end each must take those brave steps on their own. While I don't want to give the plot away, other than to say its very on point, I'll just say that I was so delighted to see Felicity finally take the heartbreaking step that would ensure she stay true to herself.
Kudos to Rachael Johns for this book, exploring a topic that has only recently come to the fore a lot more. Not telling what though, that would be to spoil the finding out.
September 23, 2016
Johns' latest release, The Art of Keeping Secrets, has been receiving praise from a lot of readers and book bloggers; and, as it sounded like it focused less on the happily-ever-after I decided to dive in. And thank god I did.
I knew I'd love Johns' writing. There was no question of that. I tend to assume most people's writing is a reflection of who they are and from stuff I've read (interviews and social media updates) I knew Johns' style was warm and funny. Which came across in the novel. Her writing is very relatable and accessible. And by that I don't mean ordinary, as not many writers can manage that easy conversational tone without it sounding forced or if they're trying to be informal.
Neve, Emma and Felicity met five years earlier and - via their sons - have become best friends. In many ways their boys are all they have in common, but they've bonded and 'think' they've shared their secrets and know each other well. But of course that's never the case.
All three lead characters are complex and interesting - with very different personalities and very different problems. They're independent and strong characters but - like so many women and mothers - struggling to believe they're doing as well as others and worrying about failing their children. They'll be very relatable for readers, as even this childless, single reader could relate to some of the dating and confidence issues experienced. And then there's that sense of regret.... which I could metaphorically taste.
This is an enjoyable novel, it's not always cheery and my own tears were a surprise; but ultimately it's empowering and uplifting. Readers shouldn't necessarily expect their happily-ever-afters however, because Johns gives us something a bit more real than that.
Read the full review on my blog: http://www.debbish.com/books-literatu...
4.5 stars
I knew I'd love Johns' writing. There was no question of that. I tend to assume most people's writing is a reflection of who they are and from stuff I've read (interviews and social media updates) I knew Johns' style was warm and funny. Which came across in the novel. Her writing is very relatable and accessible. And by that I don't mean ordinary, as not many writers can manage that easy conversational tone without it sounding forced or if they're trying to be informal.
Neve, Emma and Felicity met five years earlier and - via their sons - have become best friends. In many ways their boys are all they have in common, but they've bonded and 'think' they've shared their secrets and know each other well. But of course that's never the case.
All three lead characters are complex and interesting - with very different personalities and very different problems. They're independent and strong characters but - like so many women and mothers - struggling to believe they're doing as well as others and worrying about failing their children. They'll be very relatable for readers, as even this childless, single reader could relate to some of the dating and confidence issues experienced. And then there's that sense of regret.... which I could metaphorically taste.
This is an enjoyable novel, it's not always cheery and my own tears were a surprise; but ultimately it's empowering and uplifting. Readers shouldn't necessarily expect their happily-ever-afters however, because Johns gives us something a bit more real than that.
Read the full review on my blog: http://www.debbish.com/books-literatu...
4.5 stars
July 12, 2016
Wow! This is fast becoming my favourite Rachael Johns book.
Edgy and different this is brand new territory for Rach and I LOVE IT
AMAZING read, but I would like another chapter or two to see what happens next
Edgy and different this is brand new territory for Rach and I LOVE IT
AMAZING read, but I would like another chapter or two to see what happens next
September 10, 2016
4.5 Stars - http://greatreadsandtealeaves.blogspo...
‘Is it a secret?’ He leant forward a little and whispered, ‘I promise I’m good at keeping secrets.’
The Art of Keeping Secrets by Rachael Johns is my first book by her and I was eager to finally sample her writing, especially considering, many claim this to be one of her best books so far. I was not disappointed. In a nutshell, this is the story of three women who are the best of friends and the secrets that they have kept not only from each other but from their families as well. One of the best things about this book, is that you don't have to wait until the closing stages for any big reveals. As their secrets slowly start to unfurl, the absolute heartache is so real you will find it difficult to put down.
‘Please, say something,’ she pleaded, her whole body trembling from the knowledge she’d finally revealed her biggest, darkest secret.'
Each of the lives of these three very different women is told from their perspective in alternating chapters. There really is something here for everyone as not only do you find yourself immersed in a highly engaging story but, just below that surface, Johns is examining the fallout of kept secrets: What happens when the truth is hidden to all of those involved? United by friendship they may be, but is it a strong enough foundation to see them through some testing times and differences of opinion? What will be the eventual and heartbreaking consequences when all is revealed?
Each of the women bring their own unique thoughts and perspectives when faced with the cards life has dealt them and how they choose to then act upon that. Flick is solid and stoic and faced with a terrible decision; Neve has a hidden past that could really damage her future; and, Emma goes through a truly traumatic experience.
It's a little difficult to reveal more because I mean, after all, it is a book about secrets. So without giving any spoilers away, suffice to say it's a highly engaging read that kept me up past my bedtime and would I would recommend to readers across a range of genres.
'The time for secrets and lies was over.'
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release
‘Is it a secret?’ He leant forward a little and whispered, ‘I promise I’m good at keeping secrets.’
The Art of Keeping Secrets by Rachael Johns is my first book by her and I was eager to finally sample her writing, especially considering, many claim this to be one of her best books so far. I was not disappointed. In a nutshell, this is the story of three women who are the best of friends and the secrets that they have kept not only from each other but from their families as well. One of the best things about this book, is that you don't have to wait until the closing stages for any big reveals. As their secrets slowly start to unfurl, the absolute heartache is so real you will find it difficult to put down.
‘Please, say something,’ she pleaded, her whole body trembling from the knowledge she’d finally revealed her biggest, darkest secret.'
Each of the lives of these three very different women is told from their perspective in alternating chapters. There really is something here for everyone as not only do you find yourself immersed in a highly engaging story but, just below that surface, Johns is examining the fallout of kept secrets: What happens when the truth is hidden to all of those involved? United by friendship they may be, but is it a strong enough foundation to see them through some testing times and differences of opinion? What will be the eventual and heartbreaking consequences when all is revealed?
Each of the women bring their own unique thoughts and perspectives when faced with the cards life has dealt them and how they choose to then act upon that. Flick is solid and stoic and faced with a terrible decision; Neve has a hidden past that could really damage her future; and, Emma goes through a truly traumatic experience.
It's a little difficult to reveal more because I mean, after all, it is a book about secrets. So without giving any spoilers away, suffice to say it's a highly engaging read that kept me up past my bedtime and would I would recommend to readers across a range of genres.
'The time for secrets and lies was over.'
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release
September 12, 2017
This is the kind of book that you'd buy at an airport; it's not very well written and it doesn't have a compelling story or likable characters, but it's marginally better than staring out the window for several hours. Unfortunately, Johns doesn't seem to realize this, and indeed believes she's written a compelling, intriguing story. The three main characters of the story (whose personalities and behaviors are nearly indistinguishable) do nothing to endear themselves to the reader, and indeed spend the whole book whining and blowing their problems out of proportion.
The three women are brought together by their sons, and seem to take a moral high ground because they're so much different than the other moms. It doesn't matter that they spend the book wining and gossiping about their husbands, customers, and even each other, Johns wants you to realize that no, they're special, they have it hard, they get a free pass to be miserable and judgmental just because she tells you they've earned it.
There's a way to write a book with obvious drama, a way to make readers genuinely excited for or surprised by the sheer volume of unrealistic situations the characters get dropped into. Johns, unfortunately, doesn't seem to fully understand how to do this, and when the plot slows down, throws in drama just so the book has substance, and it just feels forced as a result. Furthermore, she uses the tragedy of other characters to further the three women; when one character discovers her husband is transgender, she 'tries to make it work' but really spends the whole book making snide comments about how he'd like to be wearing a dress and whining that her perfect marriage is a lie, when he's more accommodating than anyone really deserves. At the end of the book, Johns has one of the sons these women claim to love so dearly get in a car accident, just so the mother can play the victim and doesn't get blamed for lying to his father for eighteen years.
For a group of women that pride themselves on being 'different', their stories are some of the most predictable, miserable, and boring you'll ever read.
The three women are brought together by their sons, and seem to take a moral high ground because they're so much different than the other moms. It doesn't matter that they spend the book wining and gossiping about their husbands, customers, and even each other, Johns wants you to realize that no, they're special, they have it hard, they get a free pass to be miserable and judgmental just because she tells you they've earned it.
There's a way to write a book with obvious drama, a way to make readers genuinely excited for or surprised by the sheer volume of unrealistic situations the characters get dropped into. Johns, unfortunately, doesn't seem to fully understand how to do this, and when the plot slows down, throws in drama just so the book has substance, and it just feels forced as a result. Furthermore, she uses the tragedy of other characters to further the three women; when one character discovers her husband is transgender, she 'tries to make it work' but really spends the whole book making snide comments about how he'd like to be wearing a dress and whining that her perfect marriage is a lie, when he's more accommodating than anyone really deserves. At the end of the book, Johns has one of the sons these women claim to love so dearly get in a car accident, just so the mother can play the victim and doesn't get blamed for lying to his father for eighteen years.
For a group of women that pride themselves on being 'different', their stories are some of the most predictable, miserable, and boring you'll ever read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2017
This is my first book that I've read by Johns, but I will definitely be reading more. It's about the relationship between three women who have been friends since high school. Their lives have changed over time. The years have improved some of their lives, but one of the friend's lives has not been so good. Stiil, she has had her friends there to support, and then there are other secrets. It's a great read. I recommend to the reading community.
October 31, 2016
This book follows the lives of three friends as they share some huge secrets that have made an impact on their lives.
I really enjoyed the characterisations and I thought they were all likeable and believable. It was also a story with a few surprises, tears and laughs.
On the flip side, I found the prose and the dialogue a little superfluous and a proper edit would have taken this from a good book to a great one that could sit along side other fabulous contemporary Australian authors such as Liane Moriarty.
For example, a character drives to a church and we are told "when they arrived...(she) slipped the car keys into her clutch bag and walked over to join Zoe, Seb...." The keys going into her bag and her walking over to these characters adds nothing to the story. I probably wouldn't notice this once or twice, but it was continual through the book that we are given step-by-step and it just isn't needed. Also, some of the dialogue "your daughters will be happy to have you closer to come again too, especially Hannah who will also be here". or "Would you like me to run you a bath and pour you a glass of wine" That just isn't how someone would actually speak in a casual setting. This may seem like I'm being picky, but it did bug me through the book as I think there is so much potential here.
Having said all of that, I did enjoy it and would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the characterisations and I thought they were all likeable and believable. It was also a story with a few surprises, tears and laughs.
On the flip side, I found the prose and the dialogue a little superfluous and a proper edit would have taken this from a good book to a great one that could sit along side other fabulous contemporary Australian authors such as Liane Moriarty.
For example, a character drives to a church and we are told "when they arrived...(she) slipped the car keys into her clutch bag and walked over to join Zoe, Seb...." The keys going into her bag and her walking over to these characters adds nothing to the story. I probably wouldn't notice this once or twice, but it was continual through the book that we are given step-by-step and it just isn't needed. Also, some of the dialogue "your daughters will be happy to have you closer to come again too, especially Hannah who will also be here". or "Would you like me to run you a bath and pour you a glass of wine" That just isn't how someone would actually speak in a casual setting. This may seem like I'm being picky, but it did bug me through the book as I think there is so much potential here.
Having said all of that, I did enjoy it and would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 2, 2017
The Art of Keeping Secrets has now overtaken The Patterson Girls as my new favourite Rachael Johns book. This fabulous contemporary fiction novel follows the lives of three women, who have been friends for years but are each keeping secrets.
I giggled, I teared up, I kept turning the pages. The only reason I didn't finish it sooner was that I put all my books down for a few days so that I could flit around the Romance Writer's of Australia conference, soaking up the love, and get to meet Rachael Johns in person (*waves* hi, Rach).
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I giggled, I teared up, I kept turning the pages. The only reason I didn't finish it sooner was that I put all my books down for a few days so that I could flit around the Romance Writer's of Australia conference, soaking up the love, and get to meet Rachael Johns in person (*waves* hi, Rach).
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 28, 2017
This book bored me to tears.
I usually love a good 'chick lit' book and know that some books can transport you to a different place, but the characters in this book are beyond ridiculous and the secrets they are keeping totally unrelatable.
The plot involving Emma would have been obvious to an 10 year old and the whole thing needed a good edit.
I usually love a good 'chick lit' book and know that some books can transport you to a different place, but the characters in this book are beyond ridiculous and the secrets they are keeping totally unrelatable.
The plot involving Emma would have been obvious to an 10 year old and the whole thing needed a good edit.
October 31, 2016
Interesting cross section of themes, builds on her range from The Patterson Girls.
Love the characters and the dynamics of each relationship. Who wouldn't fall for Patrick? Seb/Sofia slightly harder to stomach as you really felt for Flick.
A good read and author I will keep coming back to.
Love the characters and the dynamics of each relationship. Who wouldn't fall for Patrick? Seb/Sofia slightly harder to stomach as you really felt for Flick.
A good read and author I will keep coming back to.
September 12, 2016
ARC received via Netgalley for an honest review
Oh what a tangled web we weave! Secrets, little white lies, they all come back to haunt us eventually.
Felicity (Flick), Emma and Genevieve (Neve), best friends, and they tell each other everything.. right?
That is until their secrets start to emerge, and they each have to deal with the consequences.
Will they tear their friendships apart, or will it bring them closer, that is the question.
As I turned each and every page, I was anxious to know what would happen to each of the lovely ladies, their families, their friends. I felt their anger, their pain, their sorrow. I felt their happiness, their hope, their dreams coming to fruition.
I laughed, I cried, I got angry and sad. And I had hope in my heart that each and every one of them would get the outcome that they wanted.
There is one of these that I feel that their story is not completed yet? And I hope that we get more of it sometime in the future.
Ms Johns took me on a journey of hope, fun, laughter and discovery from one side of the world to the other. I became completely engrossed in the tale she was telling, and I can't wait to see what she brings us next.
Oh what a tangled web we weave! Secrets, little white lies, they all come back to haunt us eventually.
Felicity (Flick), Emma and Genevieve (Neve), best friends, and they tell each other everything.. right?
That is until their secrets start to emerge, and they each have to deal with the consequences.
Will they tear their friendships apart, or will it bring them closer, that is the question.
As I turned each and every page, I was anxious to know what would happen to each of the lovely ladies, their families, their friends. I felt their anger, their pain, their sorrow. I felt their happiness, their hope, their dreams coming to fruition.
I laughed, I cried, I got angry and sad. And I had hope in my heart that each and every one of them would get the outcome that they wanted.
There is one of these that I feel that their story is not completed yet? And I hope that we get more of it sometime in the future.
Ms Johns took me on a journey of hope, fun, laughter and discovery from one side of the world to the other. I became completely engrossed in the tale she was telling, and I can't wait to see what she brings us next.
Read
December 19, 2016Rachael Johns knows how to tell a good story. The author has written numerous romance novels and chick lit books. Her latest novel, The Art of Keeping Secrets is a well-crafted and emotional piece of fiction. It’s also a story that is a testament to the power of female friendship.
To read the rest of this review please visit: http://bookgirl.beautyandlace.net/boo...
To read the rest of this review please visit: http://bookgirl.beautyandlace.net/boo...
April 16, 2023
The art of keeping secrets is about three best friends Flick (Felicity), Emma and Neve (Genevieve) and the secrets that they are all hiding. They're all mothers but they're all hiding secrets that could destroy everything in their lives. Flick is struggling with the fact that her husband Seb, who is a crossdresser wants to transition into a woman. She is also worried a Emma is a single mother to her three children Caleb, Louise and Laura since her ex-husband Max left for Chanel, a much younger woman who is now his wife. She's struggling financially and she is working full time as a travel agent. She has constant headaches on top of all of this but she can't help her attraction to her boss, Patrick. Meanwhile Neve is shocked when her son Will announces that he wants to find his father, who he has never known. The problem is that she lied about him and why he isn't in her son's life. Neve had a relationship with James, the father of her son while working on a Melbourne production of the Andrew Lloyd Webber Cats. He was married with two daughters at the time. Neve left him after she found out she was pregnant. She never told him about the fact that she was pregnant with their son. Neve doesn't know what do but she decides to tell her two best friends ,Flick and Emma about her relationship with James. They're shocked and Emma is disgusted with her because of the fact that Max cheated on her with Chanel. But they later all go to New York together as Neve is going to tell James about their son. But after arriving there things go from bad to worse. Emma is terrified after she has a seizure and a tumour is found on a brain, meaning that she might have brain cancer, and that at the very least she needs surgery on her brain. Flick is still reeling from the fact that Seb is going to transition into a woman and the impact that this could have on the kids. Meanwhile, Neve sleeps with James instead of telling him about Will. Eventually she does tell him that they have a son together and James is furious that she kept them apart. I really enjoyed this book, though it took me a while to get into (as seems to be happening to every book I've been reading lately-I think I'm in a slump lol). But once I did get into it I was really into it. I was addicted to what was going on and I was invested in all the characters, especially Emma who had it the toughest out of all the women. I love that no one what went on in their lives the friendship between Flick, Emma and Neve never wavered. I loved reading about their strong friendship. Everyone deserves to have a friendship like that. The romances were good too, though they definitely weren't a main part of the plot. I definitely recommend this book. The only thing that really frustrated me was the ending of it and how it ended for one character, Flick. (If you don't want to read this stop reading now, but on the last page she decides to leave Seb who is about to transition into a woman.) I would be fine with this but this happens on the literal last page and it leaves her story or at least her plotline unresolved. So it had a really weird ending and I don't get why there isn't a sequel to it. But I loved how Emma and Neve's stories ended-I love romance so I love that they both got their happily ever afters with men who clearly loved them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2016
The Art of Keeping Secrets is the second Rachael Johns has written in the newly coined ‘Life lit’ category. Her first in this genre, The Patterson Girls, won the ABIA Award for Best Book in 2016.
The book centres around three women and their families. Each woman gets a chapter from her point of view and as the book progresses, you learn more about their secrets, hopes, and dreams. Felicity or Flick is a taxidermist and a mother whose husband has a habit of secretly dressing in woman’s clothes. Genevieve or Neve is a makeup artist and single mother raising a teenage son. She has to finally admit to him that she lied about his father and why he’s absent from their lives. Then you have Emma, who’s dealing with a divorce from a husband who ditched her for a younger woman. Emma is dealing with health problems and the possibility that she’s going to lose custody of her children. I don’t want to give any spoilers away, but there’s many secrets in the book, and I love how you don’t have to wait until the end to find out what they are.
When I started this book, I was blown away by how familiar Rachael Johns writes.
And by that, I mean, I can almost hear the voices of my friends speaking when the characters are speaking to each other. Rachael’s got the Australian vernacular down pat! Despite having some unusual characters with unusual problems that initially jarred me, the easy going writing soon smoothed out my unease and it wasn’t long before I found myself pages deep in the book. I almost missed my train stop at a certain climax, and because she’s written such relatable characters, I found myself in tears in others.
It deals with controversial social issues but helps you swallow them with a spoonful of Rachael Johns’ good ol’ Aussie sugar.
I definitely recommend this book.
The book centres around three women and their families. Each woman gets a chapter from her point of view and as the book progresses, you learn more about their secrets, hopes, and dreams. Felicity or Flick is a taxidermist and a mother whose husband has a habit of secretly dressing in woman’s clothes. Genevieve or Neve is a makeup artist and single mother raising a teenage son. She has to finally admit to him that she lied about his father and why he’s absent from their lives. Then you have Emma, who’s dealing with a divorce from a husband who ditched her for a younger woman. Emma is dealing with health problems and the possibility that she’s going to lose custody of her children. I don’t want to give any spoilers away, but there’s many secrets in the book, and I love how you don’t have to wait until the end to find out what they are.
When I started this book, I was blown away by how familiar Rachael Johns writes.
And by that, I mean, I can almost hear the voices of my friends speaking when the characters are speaking to each other. Rachael’s got the Australian vernacular down pat! Despite having some unusual characters with unusual problems that initially jarred me, the easy going writing soon smoothed out my unease and it wasn’t long before I found myself pages deep in the book. I almost missed my train stop at a certain climax, and because she’s written such relatable characters, I found myself in tears in others.
It deals with controversial social issues but helps you swallow them with a spoonful of Rachael Johns’ good ol’ Aussie sugar.
I definitely recommend this book.
September 9, 2016
This story had me riveted from start to finish three best friends Felicity (Flick), Emma and Genevieve (Neve) who met when their boys started high school 6 years before now share a special bond and will do anything for each other but all have their own secrets that they have kept but are now starting to unravel and this is where their friendship steps up and they take a trip to New York together and lives will change there will be tears there will be smiles but the love of these girls never fades.
Flick happily married (or is she) to Seb Emma divorced and struggling financially and being constantly tired and single mum Neve who has kept a secret from her son that starts them on the journey to New York. I felt very close to all three girls their characters are lovable and the emotions that they feel are so true they all come to life on the pages as they all open up with their secrets and help each other as true friends do everyone needs friends and these three are the best.
The Art of Keeping Secrets is an emotional moving story one that will stay with me for a long time MS Johns has written another keeper one that brings out so many emotions and highlights the need for friends true friends that will have your back always through thick and thin, I loved this one it had me crying and there are so many happy times. I highly recommend this one sit back once you start you will not want to be disturbed while reading believe you me as you get to know Flick, Emma and Neve and their families and the secrets that in the end will bring them even closer, awesome story.
Flick happily married (or is she) to Seb Emma divorced and struggling financially and being constantly tired and single mum Neve who has kept a secret from her son that starts them on the journey to New York. I felt very close to all three girls their characters are lovable and the emotions that they feel are so true they all come to life on the pages as they all open up with their secrets and help each other as true friends do everyone needs friends and these three are the best.
The Art of Keeping Secrets is an emotional moving story one that will stay with me for a long time MS Johns has written another keeper one that brings out so many emotions and highlights the need for friends true friends that will have your back always through thick and thin, I loved this one it had me crying and there are so many happy times. I highly recommend this one sit back once you start you will not want to be disturbed while reading believe you me as you get to know Flick, Emma and Neve and their families and the secrets that in the end will bring them even closer, awesome story.
August 19, 2017
The Art of Keeping Secrets was a roller coaster of emotions wrapped up in a rock solid story as three friends journeyed together through life, love, and a multitude of family issues.
‘Even if their lives *were* falling apart, at least they had each other to laugh and cry with.’
Rachael Johns has a way of writing stories that are thoughtful, character-driven, and have a realistic feel to them. The Art of Keeping Secrets bumped that up a notch for me, as she also added in thought-provoking twists to relationships and some non-traditional issues we face in the world today. It was interesting to see how Neve, Emma and Flick, while presented as everyday women with struggles most parents face, were also dealing with secrets they hadn’t told each other. And that’s where the drama and the real depth of the story began. Read More
‘Even if their lives *were* falling apart, at least they had each other to laugh and cry with.’
Rachael Johns has a way of writing stories that are thoughtful, character-driven, and have a realistic feel to them. The Art of Keeping Secrets bumped that up a notch for me, as she also added in thought-provoking twists to relationships and some non-traditional issues we face in the world today. It was interesting to see how Neve, Emma and Flick, while presented as everyday women with struggles most parents face, were also dealing with secrets they hadn’t told each other. And that’s where the drama and the real depth of the story began. Read More
February 21, 2017
This book is easy chic lit that I'm sure is enjoyable for its target market of middle aged women in marriages and with children. However goven I'm 10-15 years below that I found it to be an easy read but one which didn't catch me.
The secrets and struggles of the characters, even the more progressive one, just weren't of interest and I couldnt really relate.
If a book about middle aged women trying to solve their own and each others secrets while drinking a lot of cocktails and wine is what you're after then this is for you.
The secrets and struggles of the characters, even the more progressive one, just weren't of interest and I couldnt really relate.
If a book about middle aged women trying to solve their own and each others secrets while drinking a lot of cocktails and wine is what you're after then this is for you.
August 1, 2016
The Art of Keeping Secrets by Rachael Johns is undeniably her best book so far.
It follows the story of three close women friends and the secrets they have kept from family and friends.
When their secrets begin to unravel, the disruption and heartache that impacts their family and friends is so believable.
A true page turner you will not want to put down.
I highly recommend this book and know it will appeal to readers of other genres not just Romance Readers.
It follows the story of three close women friends and the secrets they have kept from family and friends.
When their secrets begin to unravel, the disruption and heartache that impacts their family and friends is so believable.
A true page turner you will not want to put down.
I highly recommend this book and know it will appeal to readers of other genres not just Romance Readers.
October 5, 2016
It is interesting that when you have friends and read this book you suddenly realise how little you may know about them. This book certainly bring it to light, and we really don't know what goes on behind closed doors.
I loved this book. Rach has uses such sensitivity to deal with subject matters. This book made me cry and not many books have done that to me. We all know women like this, and so it is much closer to home.
Another winner.
I loved this book. Rach has uses such sensitivity to deal with subject matters. This book made me cry and not many books have done that to me. We all know women like this, and so it is much closer to home.
Another winner.
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December 22, 2016Not a bad read,in some spots I was unable to put it down. I hope there is a sequel.
October 6, 2019
Loved every page of this beauty
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