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Miller's Secret
In a time of heroes and heartbreak, one man has a secret that threatens to destroy all who are caught in his web. In an era when most are reeling from the impacts of World War II, Miller Dreeser is a man focused solely on an obsession born of ambition.
Caroline Bennett's heart is as big as her father's fortune, but her insecurities make her susceptible to Miller's charms. Will the decisions of her youth destroy her family and her future?
Set against the vibrant backdrop of the California coastline, Miller’s Secret spans more than two decades during some of the most defining moments of the 20th century as it follows the story of five intertwining lives from America’s Greatest Generation.
Author Tess Thompson explores themes of power, deceit, and love lost and found in this suspenseful, page-turning post World War II drama.
Caroline Bennett's heart is as big as her father's fortune, but her insecurities make her susceptible to Miller's charms. Will the decisions of her youth destroy her family and her future?
Set against the vibrant backdrop of the California coastline, Miller’s Secret spans more than two decades during some of the most defining moments of the 20th century as it follows the story of five intertwining lives from America’s Greatest Generation.
Author Tess Thompson explores themes of power, deceit, and love lost and found in this suspenseful, page-turning post World War II drama.
- GenresRomance
348 pages, ebook
First published January 10, 2017
213 people are currently reading
402 people want to read
About the author
Tess Thompson
108 books1,734 followersTess Thompson Romance...hometowns and heartstrings.
Tess Thompson is the USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of contemporary and historical Romantic Women’s Fiction with over 60 published titles. When asked to describe her books, she could never figure out what to say that would perfectly sum them up until she landed on, Hometowns and Heartstrings.
She’s married to her prince, Best Husband Ever, and is the mother of their blended family of four kids and five cats. Best Husband Ever is seventeen months younger, which qualifies Tess as a Cougar, a title she wears proudly. Her Bonus Sons are young adults with pretty hair and big brains like their dad. Daughters, better known as Princess One and Two, are teenagers who make their mama proud because they’re kind. They’re also smart, but a mother shouldn’t brag.
Tess loves lazy afternoons watching football, hanging out on the back patio with Best Husband Ever, reading in bed, binge-watching television series, red wine, strong coffee and walks on crisp autumn days. She laughs a little too loudly, never knows what to make for dinner, looks ridiculous kickboxing in an attempt to combat her muffin top, and always complains about the
rain even though she chose to live in Seattle.
She’s proud to have grown up in a small town like the ones in her novels. After graduating from the University of Southern California Drama School, she had hopes of becoming an actress but was called instead to writing fiction. She’s grateful to spend most days in her office matchmaking her characters while her favorite cat Mittens (shhh…don’t tell the others) sleeps on the desk.
She adores hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to say hello or sign up for her newsletter:
http://tesswrites.com/. You’ll receive an ebook copy of her novella, The Santa Trial, for your
efforts.
Much to her father’s horror, you can find her everywhere on social media.
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2esOcrn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTessTh...
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vClTfX
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tesswrites
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tesswrites
Instagram: https://instagram.com/tessielouwrites
Please note: Tess is not affiliated with the writing duo of Charlene Tess and Judi Thompson.
Tess Thompson is the USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of contemporary and historical Romantic Women’s Fiction with over 60 published titles. When asked to describe her books, she could never figure out what to say that would perfectly sum them up until she landed on, Hometowns and Heartstrings.
She’s married to her prince, Best Husband Ever, and is the mother of their blended family of four kids and five cats. Best Husband Ever is seventeen months younger, which qualifies Tess as a Cougar, a title she wears proudly. Her Bonus Sons are young adults with pretty hair and big brains like their dad. Daughters, better known as Princess One and Two, are teenagers who make their mama proud because they’re kind. They’re also smart, but a mother shouldn’t brag.
Tess loves lazy afternoons watching football, hanging out on the back patio with Best Husband Ever, reading in bed, binge-watching television series, red wine, strong coffee and walks on crisp autumn days. She laughs a little too loudly, never knows what to make for dinner, looks ridiculous kickboxing in an attempt to combat her muffin top, and always complains about the
rain even though she chose to live in Seattle.
She’s proud to have grown up in a small town like the ones in her novels. After graduating from the University of Southern California Drama School, she had hopes of becoming an actress but was called instead to writing fiction. She’s grateful to spend most days in her office matchmaking her characters while her favorite cat Mittens (shhh…don’t tell the others) sleeps on the desk.
She adores hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to say hello or sign up for her newsletter:
http://tesswrites.com/. You’ll receive an ebook copy of her novella, The Santa Trial, for your
efforts.
Much to her father’s horror, you can find her everywhere on social media.
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2esOcrn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTessTh...
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vClTfX
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tesswrites
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tesswrites
Instagram: https://instagram.com/tessielouwrites
Please note: Tess is not affiliated with the writing duo of Charlene Tess and Judi Thompson.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
February 7, 2017
I won't lie - I am a long time Tess Thompson fan. I have never read a book by her that I didn't thoroughly enjoy and Miller's Secret was no exception. From the very first page, I was captivated by this wonderful tale. The cast of characters amazing - very fleshed out and multi-dimensional. The descriptions were perfect - just enough to make you feel like you were transported back to the 20's and 40's.... This book was the perfect escape, filled with so many twists and turns I was on the edge of my seat for the entire read.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review
January 7, 2017
The sad story of a freezing-cold orphan looking out the window at his rich benefactors on Christmas Eve started me off with Horatio-Alger expectations for this book. But I quickly got pulled into a completely different world—the complex five-character braid that the plot weaves. The three men and two women characters are so alive I felt I could walk up and start talking to any one of them, and I’d love to have lunch with Henry.
Then the plot quickly turned sinister enough to keep me turning the pages. Class is set against class, poor and rich struggle for happiness and security, yet it is love all but one of them are hungry for. Caroline, the poor little rich girl, is blind to reality, while Phil, the truly poor single mother from a rural farm makes her way in the big city by living with realities. I felt along with these two women as I watched their complicated lives run parallel. Remembering how women were expected to live in the 20s, and the 40s, I marveled at how hard Caroline and Phil keep trying—for their children’s sake most of all.
Where does love come from? What do you do about it? The story kept me going, and gave me hope. For a little bonus, there are Thompson’s delightful observations, like: “You’d never know we could make something this good out of the milk from an animal who eats hats.”
A really good read!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Then the plot quickly turned sinister enough to keep me turning the pages. Class is set against class, poor and rich struggle for happiness and security, yet it is love all but one of them are hungry for. Caroline, the poor little rich girl, is blind to reality, while Phil, the truly poor single mother from a rural farm makes her way in the big city by living with realities. I felt along with these two women as I watched their complicated lives run parallel. Remembering how women were expected to live in the 20s, and the 40s, I marveled at how hard Caroline and Phil keep trying—for their children’s sake most of all.
Where does love come from? What do you do about it? The story kept me going, and gave me hope. For a little bonus, there are Thompson’s delightful observations, like: “You’d never know we could make something this good out of the milk from an animal who eats hats.”
A really good read!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 7, 2017
I received an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I've read a couple of Tess's other books before and enjoyed them and the genre.
It took a bit of time to get into the book and plot where every character fits in especially since I couldn't read in long sessions. Once everyone fell into place the story flowed easier.
It was different having a main character in a book that isn't in fact at all likeable and is to be honest not a main character that you actually get to know 'personally'. You learn about him from the others and the few times he features when you get into his head, you can't wait to stop being with him in the story.
Tess has delivered a well planned story, it feels very well researched with very lifelike characters. The last few pages flew past and all endings tied off neatly. A satisfying read and conclusion.
I've read a couple of Tess's other books before and enjoyed them and the genre.
It took a bit of time to get into the book and plot where every character fits in especially since I couldn't read in long sessions. Once everyone fell into place the story flowed easier.
It was different having a main character in a book that isn't in fact at all likeable and is to be honest not a main character that you actually get to know 'personally'. You learn about him from the others and the few times he features when you get into his head, you can't wait to stop being with him in the story.
Tess has delivered a well planned story, it feels very well researched with very lifelike characters. The last few pages flew past and all endings tied off neatly. A satisfying read and conclusion.
August 11, 2017
Knocked off a star due to all the typos and the foul language used towards the end of the book.
September 4, 2020
I LIVE for books like this! A story that grabs you right from the beginning. A story with vivid, well developed characters. A story of love, family, heroes and a villain. A story with such life like descriptions that you are transported you to a different place, in a different time. A story that totally captures you. A story with twists and turns and has you on the edge of your seat. A timeless story. This book is all that and then some. I loved it!
September 20, 2020
Fantastic! I didn't want this book to end!
January 7, 2017
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. And honestly I loved it. Tess Thompson never disappoints. I have loved all her books. Beautifully written. And as always the stories/characters all come together full circle and you have your " A ha" moment. Tess invites you into her world and makes her characters real and grab at your heart. I don't think I have ever gotten through one of her books without at least tearing up if not full on crying. You will love this book and I guarantee if this is the first book of hers that you read you will be hooked and read all of her other books. enjoy !
January 6, 2017
Another 5 Star Book from Tess Thompson. I was given an Advanced Copy for an honest review. I loved this book! The story is historical fiction set in a small town on the west coast. Miller is a child in an orphanage when the book starts. The story continues when he is and adult and out of the orphanage. His world views and thoughts on people were shaped by his experience of living in an orphanage during the great depression while money and food was scarce. From an early age, he decides his life will not be that way when he is an adult.
Caroline is about the same age as Miller. Her life is very different though. She visits the orphanage with her father to deliver Christmas gifts to the children. At this visit, she decides she will do what ever she can to help those less fortunate than herself. Miller sees her while she is at the orphanage and decides he wants to be successful and affluent like Carolines father.
The Story continues through the years with how that decision affects not only Caroline and Miller, but also Phil, a young unwed mother who finds herself in San Francisco working for Miller.
To say more about the story would give spoilers so I will leave it at this and just add there is always twists and turns in the plot and though I can usually guess the end of the story by the second chapter, I was up late reading to finish Miller's secret because it wasn't clear what was going to happen until almost the end of the book.
I enjoy Historical Fiction and Romance and Mystery, this book has it all. A page turner and great read!
Caroline is about the same age as Miller. Her life is very different though. She visits the orphanage with her father to deliver Christmas gifts to the children. At this visit, she decides she will do what ever she can to help those less fortunate than herself. Miller sees her while she is at the orphanage and decides he wants to be successful and affluent like Carolines father.
The Story continues through the years with how that decision affects not only Caroline and Miller, but also Phil, a young unwed mother who finds herself in San Francisco working for Miller.
To say more about the story would give spoilers so I will leave it at this and just add there is always twists and turns in the plot and though I can usually guess the end of the story by the second chapter, I was up late reading to finish Miller's secret because it wasn't clear what was going to happen until almost the end of the book.
I enjoy Historical Fiction and Romance and Mystery, this book has it all. A page turner and great read!
Read
January 7, 2017 I received an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review - and I was thrilled to have the chance to read it early! I have greatly enjoyed Tess Thompson's books over the last few years and look forward to each new one with great anticipation.
And I have to say I was not disappointed by her latest. She tells a tale of love, and greed, and fear that spans the years between the end of WW1 and the early 1950's. Along the way she evokes an earlier time in the coastal region of California, when life was slower and simpler.
Miller has a secret. Raised in an orphanage, he sets his sights on living a rich life and is willing to do anything to have it. He manages to keep his secrets for many years, but when things start going sideways he finds himself in a terrible situation.
Well plotted and filled with interesting characters and places, it was a great way to spend a couple of evenings. Recommended.
And I have to say I was not disappointed by her latest. She tells a tale of love, and greed, and fear that spans the years between the end of WW1 and the early 1950's. Along the way she evokes an earlier time in the coastal region of California, when life was slower and simpler.
Miller has a secret. Raised in an orphanage, he sets his sights on living a rich life and is willing to do anything to have it. He manages to keep his secrets for many years, but when things start going sideways he finds himself in a terrible situation.
Well plotted and filled with interesting characters and places, it was a great way to spend a couple of evenings. Recommended.
January 7, 2017
I have always been intrigued by personal stories (both fictional and real) that took place during the second World War. That was an immediate draw for me when I began reading Miller’s Secret. I was not disappointed. Tess Thompson succeeded in hooking me with her beautifully written narrative on the first page, and I thoroughly enjoyed this book from beginning to end.
This tale is about how the lives of two women and three men get woven together over time. Love, deceit, heartbreak and happiness—it’s all intricately intertwined throughout the novel, which is written in each character’s perspective in turn. The story flows, the author expertly offering twists and turns until she brings her readers to a surprising and incredibly satisfying conclusion.
Miller’s Secret is truly a wonderful read.
I was given an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This tale is about how the lives of two women and three men get woven together over time. Love, deceit, heartbreak and happiness—it’s all intricately intertwined throughout the novel, which is written in each character’s perspective in turn. The story flows, the author expertly offering twists and turns until she brings her readers to a surprising and incredibly satisfying conclusion.
Miller’s Secret is truly a wonderful read.
I was given an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
January 6, 2017
"I received an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review."
WOW…truly one of the best books I’ve read recently – finished it in two days. I was hooked within the first couple of pages. It is a story about love, love lost, deception, ambition, and greed. This historical novel takes place between the 1920-40’s – at times Tess skips ahead 10+ years and yet brings you present with each character in a way that doesn’t skip a beat. Tess created characters that you fall in love with and one you don’t. While the characters are complex Tess creates a visual image of who they are so you feel like you really “know” them. And more importantly want to know them. I felt the emotions of each character as the story unfolded – brought me to tears. Miller’s Secret has big screen potential! Hmm I wonder who would play Miller????
WOW…truly one of the best books I’ve read recently – finished it in two days. I was hooked within the first couple of pages. It is a story about love, love lost, deception, ambition, and greed. This historical novel takes place between the 1920-40’s – at times Tess skips ahead 10+ years and yet brings you present with each character in a way that doesn’t skip a beat. Tess created characters that you fall in love with and one you don’t. While the characters are complex Tess creates a visual image of who they are so you feel like you really “know” them. And more importantly want to know them. I felt the emotions of each character as the story unfolded – brought me to tears. Miller’s Secret has big screen potential! Hmm I wonder who would play Miller????
January 9, 2017
Full disclosure: I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Miller's Secret was like a mini-getaway. For 2 full days, I was completely absent from all my real-life routines and responsibilities and instead totally engrossed in the lives and drama of the characters' from this book.
Miller's Secret has it all: love, lust, revenge, intrigue, tragedy and heroism. I fell in love with the characters in this book and could not wait to see what happened to each of them. I loved feeling transported to a different era and living vicariously on the Northern California coastline during the 20s, 30s and 40s. If you need a mental vacation, this is the book for you.
More historical fiction from Tess Thompson, please!!!!
Miller's Secret was like a mini-getaway. For 2 full days, I was completely absent from all my real-life routines and responsibilities and instead totally engrossed in the lives and drama of the characters' from this book.
Miller's Secret has it all: love, lust, revenge, intrigue, tragedy and heroism. I fell in love with the characters in this book and could not wait to see what happened to each of them. I loved feeling transported to a different era and living vicariously on the Northern California coastline during the 20s, 30s and 40s. If you need a mental vacation, this is the book for you.
More historical fiction from Tess Thompson, please!!!!
January 10, 2017
Excitement courses through me each time I discover that Tess Thompson has published a new book. When I received an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review, I began reading it right away. Her newest book, Miller’s Secret, is now right up there with my all-time favorites of hers! The story line intrigued me from the very start. Timeless true love, deceit, mystery and more are intertwined continually throughout this novel. The characters and settings are described in such fine detail that I had a very difficult time putting this book down. I highly recommend this book to all!
January 3, 2017
i received an arc for my honest review.
my opinion is this:
Tess has another best seller on her hands. The characters were real, raw, some loveable, and some hate-able! She intertwined the characters and storylines in a way that drew me in from the first few pages.
love, betrayal, hate, murder, suspense, and passion are all included. i could not put the book down, and now feel as if i want to sit and soak in the story for awhile.
it is an incredible read!
my opinion is this:
Tess has another best seller on her hands. The characters were real, raw, some loveable, and some hate-able! She intertwined the characters and storylines in a way that drew me in from the first few pages.
love, betrayal, hate, murder, suspense, and passion are all included. i could not put the book down, and now feel as if i want to sit and soak in the story for awhile.
it is an incredible read!
January 9, 2017
COMPASSION is the first thing I thought as I read Tess Thompson’s new book “Miller’s Secret”. Throughout the entire novel, she wove this in and out and showed how one person’s actions could have impact on other people that we have no idea about. This is definitely a MUST READ (which I think all her books are!).
I received an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review which I feel deeply that I have done.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review which I feel deeply that I have done.
January 5, 2017
From the moment I started reading this book, it pulled me in! Never did I imagine how it would end and I'm usually pretty good at this! Spellbinding edge of your seat read!! One of the best books I've read in a very long time! It stayed with me for days after finishing that's how awesome it is! Tess Thompson is an amazing Author!
January 5, 2017
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review of Miller's Secret.
Miller's Secret by Tess Thompson was a delight to read! I did not want to put it down. Such a rollercoaster of emotions from page one! The details in the this book made me feel like I was living this story with the characters.
Another fantastic book by Ms. Thompson! In my opinion, this is a must read!
Miller's Secret by Tess Thompson was a delight to read! I did not want to put it down. Such a rollercoaster of emotions from page one! The details in the this book made me feel like I was living this story with the characters.
Another fantastic book by Ms. Thompson! In my opinion, this is a must read!
January 10, 2017
Another wonderful book by Tess Thompson, full of love and hope mixed with some interesting twists and turns. I just couldn't put it down and finished it in a day. The only disappointing point was when I got to the end and realized that I had no more to read. Hoping to see a sequel soon.
(I received an early reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review).
(I received an early reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review).
December 29, 2016
Another awesome read written by the amazing Tess Thompson!! I could not put this book down. I was locked into the story and the characters right from the start. A love story, lies, murder, and heroism all put together so perfectly.
January 2, 2017
Wonderful book, great characters, many that I loved and some I hated. Tess writes so that you feel like they are your friends or family and you care about them. Can hardly wait until I read more of her books.
January 20, 2017
Great story. I loved the characters. The author does an excellent job of introducing each character and blending their lives into a suspenseful and hopeful story. Romance, secrecy, hope, and love! A must read!
July 18, 2017
Wow
This book wasn't set in a time I normally read. But it sounded intriguing. It more than lived up to that and more. With such excellent character development and a superb style, it was timeless. Root for the good and boo the bad. Live every minute of it
This book wasn't set in a time I normally read. But it sounded intriguing. It more than lived up to that and more. With such excellent character development and a superb style, it was timeless. Root for the good and boo the bad. Live every minute of it
August 18, 2019
I won a copy of this book and was anxious to read it. The are three main male characters - Miller, Julius, and Henry. The two main female characters are Caroline and Phil. The story is set during WWII and afterwards. It begins with an insight into Miller as a young boy in an orphanage and Caroline as a young girl helping her parents doing charity work. At various points in the book, we are introduced to Henry as an injured soldier, Phil as an unwed pregnant teen whose one great love is killed during the war, and Julius who was Caroline's best friend growing up.
As their individual lives get interconnected and intertwined, we learn more about each character. Caroline is a trusting soul head over heels in love with Miller. Miller is a motivated young man who wants the best the world has to offer and will stop at practically nothing to get it. Phil, as a young unwed mother, is forced to make some very difficult choices to keep her child safe. Henry, as an injured soldier, must adapt to life after the war. Julius, who saw his dream shatter just before the war, must also adapt to life after the war.
I definitely did not see the ending coming.
This is a page-turner. I normally read women's fiction, but thoroughly enjoyed this stand-alone novel from one of my favorite authors.
As their individual lives get interconnected and intertwined, we learn more about each character. Caroline is a trusting soul head over heels in love with Miller. Miller is a motivated young man who wants the best the world has to offer and will stop at practically nothing to get it. Phil, as a young unwed mother, is forced to make some very difficult choices to keep her child safe. Henry, as an injured soldier, must adapt to life after the war. Julius, who saw his dream shatter just before the war, must also adapt to life after the war.
I definitely did not see the ending coming.
This is a page-turner. I normally read women's fiction, but thoroughly enjoyed this stand-alone novel from one of my favorite authors.
March 3, 2021
Miller Dreeser is a greedy, obsessed orphan who decides that rich Caroline Bennett will become his wife. He wants everything Caroline and her wealthy family can provide. Even though he does not love her, he will play the part. After all, he is a consummate actor. He can charm anyone.
Then there is Philippa an unwed, pregnant, young woman who has nothing as comes to work for Miller. He wants her too. Author, Tess Thompson has written a wonderful, exceptional historical fictional novel depicted during World War II. Chance meetings intertwine two women with a man who will do anything to get what he wants. Tess writes with deep compassion of what it was like for probably hundreds of women who gave themselves to their lover, only to have him never return from the war. What are these women to do? Banished from the only home they knew and penniless, how were they to care for their child? A story of poverty and great wealth, but most of all the greed of one man who thinks he deserves it all.
I received an advanced copy of this excellent book from the author. The comments and review are my honest opinion.
Then there is Philippa an unwed, pregnant, young woman who has nothing as comes to work for Miller. He wants her too. Author, Tess Thompson has written a wonderful, exceptional historical fictional novel depicted during World War II. Chance meetings intertwine two women with a man who will do anything to get what he wants. Tess writes with deep compassion of what it was like for probably hundreds of women who gave themselves to their lover, only to have him never return from the war. What are these women to do? Banished from the only home they knew and penniless, how were they to care for their child? A story of poverty and great wealth, but most of all the greed of one man who thinks he deserves it all.
I received an advanced copy of this excellent book from the author. The comments and review are my honest opinion.
January 24, 2023
Miller’s Secret: Obsession, Ambition, Betrayal is a novel by Tess Thompson. This great book is one of her stand-alone novels which is too bad since I would like to read more about Caroline, Julius, Henry, and Phil as well as Teddy and Mary. This book is so good that it is hard to put down for a break.
World War II takes a toll on the men in America once we are in the war. So many were lost and so many feigned excused not to go and fight. Others fought and lost limbs and had to rework their lives when they returned. Most of those who returned were haunted by what they had endured and seen. Many women were left widowed or abandoned when their husbands or boyfriends were killed. There were also many out-of-wedlock or early-born children left homeless, orphaned, or abandoned. Tess’s novel hits many of those problems caused by the War. She also deals with jealousy and ambition that is obsessive.
The book Is very good and makes for great escapism. One thing that strikes me as wrong is Caroline’s naivete. It seems impossible that she didn’t suspect her husband of cheating long before she did.
World War II takes a toll on the men in America once we are in the war. So many were lost and so many feigned excused not to go and fight. Others fought and lost limbs and had to rework their lives when they returned. Most of those who returned were haunted by what they had endured and seen. Many women were left widowed or abandoned when their husbands or boyfriends were killed. There were also many out-of-wedlock or early-born children left homeless, orphaned, or abandoned. Tess’s novel hits many of those problems caused by the War. She also deals with jealousy and ambition that is obsessive.
The book Is very good and makes for great escapism. One thing that strikes me as wrong is Caroline’s naivete. It seems impossible that she didn’t suspect her husband of cheating long before she did.
August 13, 2020
An amazing journey about the lives we touch and how our actions affect others. Caroline Bennett is a child of privilege, but her parents are raising her to remember the plight of the unfortunate. Thus, one Christmas Eve when she's still a child, she accompanies her father to the local orphanage to deliver presents. Miller Dreesen is one of those orphans and the two children surreptitiously share a secret that night. Years pass and Miller and Caroline meet again. Miller has never forgotten Caroline and has vowed some day she would be his, not for any great love, but for greed. And while their family grows, so do the cracks in their lives--until Miller will stop at nothing to have it all, including the Bennett wealth and the young woman he's taken as his mistress. Set against the backdrop of a turbulent time in US history and spanning over a decade, this is a meaty, emotional ride. Lovely and thought-provoking.
March 4, 2021
If you like historical fiction you will enjoy Miller’s Secret by Tess Thompson. I’ve read many of her books and enjoyed them all but for me what made this one special was that it is also a suspenseful thriller set between the two world wars.
I wasn’t sure where it was headed as the story begins at Christmas. A well to do family brings gifts to all the children at a local orphanage. But one particular orphan, Miller Dreeser who is ten, is both jealous and angry that they have so much when he has so little. He becomes obsessed with revenge against the Bennett family, and plans to marry their daughter Caroline in his quest for power. This story deals with anger, deceit, love, loss, murder, class struggles and more. Characters are well developed and it touches all our emotions. I recommend it.
I wasn’t sure where it was headed as the story begins at Christmas. A well to do family brings gifts to all the children at a local orphanage. But one particular orphan, Miller Dreeser who is ten, is both jealous and angry that they have so much when he has so little. He becomes obsessed with revenge against the Bennett family, and plans to marry their daughter Caroline in his quest for power. This story deals with anger, deceit, love, loss, murder, class struggles and more. Characters are well developed and it touches all our emotions. I recommend it.
March 5, 2021
Tess Thompson is a great writer. Her books are filled with emotion, interesting well done characters, fantastic settings and beautiful prose. I happen to really like her historical fiction. She brings into play elements of social disparity, repercussions of war, and wonderful descriptions of fashion and food of the times. This book was a bit dark, with evil and jealousy driving it. The story takes place before and into the depression, and takes us into a young woman's struggle with becoming an unwed mother and the choices she is forced to make. I loved the seaside setting, the twin cottages, the strength and loyalty of the Bennett family. Tess makes me want to live where her stories are set. A really good read.
February 28, 2021
Tess Thompson's Miller's Secret, set during WWII, is the story of Miller Dreeser and Caroline Bennett and the other characters in their lives. Miller Dreeser, an orphan, first sees Caroline Bennett, a wealthy kindhearted girl, when Caroline and her family are delivering presents to orphans on Christmas Eve. From that point on, Miller becomes obsessed with becoming a member of the Bennett family. Miller's Secret, a story about love, deceit, heartbreak, power, control, and happiness, shows how the characters are affected by each other's decisions. A well-written story with twists and turns and an unexpected ending, you will find yourself believing in second chances and redemption.
March 3, 2021
Miller’s Secret by Tess Thompson
This is a wonderfully written story. The characters are so relatable and believable.
It is the story of good versus evil. The have and the have nots. Love and hate. A mother willing to do anything to protect her child even it if costs her her own happiness and future. It is a story of second chances and new beginnings.
Ms. Thompson has a way of bringing characters to life that is like no other. She masterfully draws the reader in and before you know it, you are fully vested in the characters and their outcomes.
This is a book you will not want to put down! Clear your day and sit down with a cup of tea or coffee and enjoy this great book!!
This is a wonderfully written story. The characters are so relatable and believable.
It is the story of good versus evil. The have and the have nots. Love and hate. A mother willing to do anything to protect her child even it if costs her her own happiness and future. It is a story of second chances and new beginnings.
Ms. Thompson has a way of bringing characters to life that is like no other. She masterfully draws the reader in and before you know it, you are fully vested in the characters and their outcomes.
This is a book you will not want to put down! Clear your day and sit down with a cup of tea or coffee and enjoy this great book!!
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