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Our Little Secret
A deserted train station: A man waits. A woman watches.
Chris is ready to join his wife. He’s planned this moment for nearly a year. The date. The time. The train. But he hadn’t factored in Sarah.
So when Sarah walks on to the platform and sees a man swaying at the edge she assumes he’s just had too much to drink. What she doesn’t expect is to stop a suicide. As Sarah becomes obsessed with discovering the secrets that Chris is clearly hiding, he becomes obsessed with stopping her, protecting her.
But there are some secrets that are meant to stay buried forever…
Perfect for fans of Clare Mackintosh and Holly Seddon.
Chris is ready to join his wife. He’s planned this moment for nearly a year. The date. The time. The train. But he hadn’t factored in Sarah.
So when Sarah walks on to the platform and sees a man swaying at the edge she assumes he’s just had too much to drink. What she doesn’t expect is to stop a suicide. As Sarah becomes obsessed with discovering the secrets that Chris is clearly hiding, he becomes obsessed with stopping her, protecting her.
But there are some secrets that are meant to stay buried forever…
Perfect for fans of Clare Mackintosh and Holly Seddon.
296 pages, ebook
First published July 28, 2017
636 people are currently reading
1502 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 180 reviews
June 12, 2017
An exhausting emotional thriller that is well worth the journey!
Chris is ready to end it all. His wife Julia has been tragically murdered. He makes a hasty and fateful decision to take his life to be with her for eternity. He has planned it out for months, down to the last detail. All he has to do is simply step off the train platform as the train approaches. Just one step and no one else will get hurt or affected by his death. Now just minutes away from leaving the pain behind forever, the one factor he could not control. Someone else steps on to the platform – her name is Sarah.
Told from the perspective of the two main characters Chris and Sarah. Both voices equally strong add real depth to the story-line.
The book is shrouded in the mystery of what exactly happened to Julia. Why did she have to die? Why won’t the murderer stop haunting and stalking Chris? The killer's words constantly ringing out as a reminder not to say a word - keep our little secret or your friends and family will be next.
Don't expect a fast paced thriller here. This is a very slow burn of a novel that builds in tension as it progresses. You get pulled in deeper and deeper until you’re completely lost in it. I found myself becoming more enmeshed in the mystery as each chapter fell away. We’re always left in the dark as to Julia's murder, but bit-by- bit everything unfolds right down to the very last sentence! Now that’s an ending! Wow!
4.5*
Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK / HQ Digital and Darren O’Sullivan for an ARC to review in exchange for an honest review.
Chris is ready to end it all. His wife Julia has been tragically murdered. He makes a hasty and fateful decision to take his life to be with her for eternity. He has planned it out for months, down to the last detail. All he has to do is simply step off the train platform as the train approaches. Just one step and no one else will get hurt or affected by his death. Now just minutes away from leaving the pain behind forever, the one factor he could not control. Someone else steps on to the platform – her name is Sarah.
Told from the perspective of the two main characters Chris and Sarah. Both voices equally strong add real depth to the story-line.
The book is shrouded in the mystery of what exactly happened to Julia. Why did she have to die? Why won’t the murderer stop haunting and stalking Chris? The killer's words constantly ringing out as a reminder not to say a word - keep our little secret or your friends and family will be next.
Don't expect a fast paced thriller here. This is a very slow burn of a novel that builds in tension as it progresses. You get pulled in deeper and deeper until you’re completely lost in it. I found myself becoming more enmeshed in the mystery as each chapter fell away. We’re always left in the dark as to Julia's murder, but bit-by- bit everything unfolds right down to the very last sentence! Now that’s an ending! Wow!
4.5*
Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK / HQ Digital and Darren O’Sullivan for an ARC to review in exchange for an honest review.
July 5, 2017
3.75 Stars* (rounded up)
A thrilling ride that starts with a jumper, and the woman who stops him.
Chris Hayes' life has fallen apart. His wife Julia is gone and he can't live without her. Therefore, he came up with what he thought was a well thought out plan - to be with his wife. He was going to jump in front of a late night train. One with no passengers. One no one ever waited for. He planned it perfectly. But minutes before he was to jump, someone else showed up at the station and she ruined everything.
Sarah is a mess. She spent the night with a man who could care less about her. She leaves his place with a few dollars on both her train pass and on her debit card, having now idea if she can actually make it home. They had dated for five (5) years and he cheated on her for most of it. At this point, her self worth is down the loo. When she arrives at the train station, she spots a man, wavering at the edge of the platform, kissing a picture of a woman and is immediately entranced. She doesn't hesitate - she speaks. Life is altered. For both of them.
Chris Hayes wishes Sarah never spoke to him. Never made contact. Sarah however, can't get Chris out of her mind. She wants to help him. Wants to make a difference. Her sister Nat is against it. Sarah doesn't listen. Chris' long time friend Steve tries to be there and help him through the rough times. Chris refuses. Chris and Sarah become bound together and both are keeping secrets. If you want to know what they are, you'll have to read this one for yourself.
"Our Little Secret" by Darren O'Sullivan was an enjoyable psychological thriller that built slowly and kept that slow burn throughout. It kept my interest with characters that were interesting yet pained. That said, this wasn't an intense quick read (at least for me). In addition, though I had storyline figured out fairly early on, it didn't detract from my enjoyment of the novel.
Thank you to NetGalley, Harper Collins UK, and Darren O'Sullivan for an arc of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published in NetGalley and Goodreads on 7.5.17.
*Will be published on Amazon on 7.28.17.
A thrilling ride that starts with a jumper, and the woman who stops him.
Chris Hayes' life has fallen apart. His wife Julia is gone and he can't live without her. Therefore, he came up with what he thought was a well thought out plan - to be with his wife. He was going to jump in front of a late night train. One with no passengers. One no one ever waited for. He planned it perfectly. But minutes before he was to jump, someone else showed up at the station and she ruined everything.
Sarah is a mess. She spent the night with a man who could care less about her. She leaves his place with a few dollars on both her train pass and on her debit card, having now idea if she can actually make it home. They had dated for five (5) years and he cheated on her for most of it. At this point, her self worth is down the loo. When she arrives at the train station, she spots a man, wavering at the edge of the platform, kissing a picture of a woman and is immediately entranced. She doesn't hesitate - she speaks. Life is altered. For both of them.
Chris Hayes wishes Sarah never spoke to him. Never made contact. Sarah however, can't get Chris out of her mind. She wants to help him. Wants to make a difference. Her sister Nat is against it. Sarah doesn't listen. Chris' long time friend Steve tries to be there and help him through the rough times. Chris refuses. Chris and Sarah become bound together and both are keeping secrets. If you want to know what they are, you'll have to read this one for yourself.
"Our Little Secret" by Darren O'Sullivan was an enjoyable psychological thriller that built slowly and kept that slow burn throughout. It kept my interest with characters that were interesting yet pained. That said, this wasn't an intense quick read (at least for me). In addition, though I had storyline figured out fairly early on, it didn't detract from my enjoyment of the novel.
Thank you to NetGalley, Harper Collins UK, and Darren O'Sullivan for an arc of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published in NetGalley and Goodreads on 7.5.17.
*Will be published on Amazon on 7.28.17.
July 18, 2017
3.75 stars
Setting:
POVs:
Intensity: 3.5/5
Characterization: 4/5
Tone: Bleak
Pace:
This was a suspenseful story offering a large dose of flashback scenes, reminiscing moments, very detailed diary excerpts, paranoid characters, and the perfect ending! The grand countdown leading to the final twenty-four hours of this story was the most thrilling!
So why not five stars?
I've read other books with that same twist, so that revelation wasn't twisted or shocking enough for me, but the execution leading up to it all was a great ride.
The upside? I enjoyed this author's writing style and this story's ability to keep me engaged. The content was depressing at times (the synopsis hinted at this), but I loved how the characters remained consistent to the end: Natalie remained intuitive, Sarah proved that her man radar was defective for life, and Chris?
Chris earned that ending and so much more!
*NetGalley ARC supplied by HQ Digital in exchange for an honest review.
Setting:
POVs:
Intensity: 3.5/5
Characterization: 4/5
Tone: Bleak
Pace:
This was a suspenseful story offering a large dose of flashback scenes, reminiscing moments, very detailed diary excerpts, paranoid characters, and the perfect ending! The grand countdown leading to the final twenty-four hours of this story was the most thrilling!
So why not five stars?
I've read other books with that same twist, so that revelation wasn't twisted or shocking enough for me, but the execution leading up to it all was a great ride.
The upside? I enjoyed this author's writing style and this story's ability to keep me engaged. The content was depressing at times (the synopsis hinted at this), but I loved how the characters remained consistent to the end: Natalie remained intuitive, Sarah proved that her man radar was defective for life, and Chris?
Chris earned that ending and so much more!
*NetGalley ARC supplied by HQ Digital in exchange for an honest review.
November 18, 2018
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.beckiebookworm.com
I really wasn't expecting much when I picked up Our little secret By Darren O'Sullivan, not sure why that was but I got a very pleasant surprise indeed as Our little secret is quite the sparkling gem.
From the moment I started this, I felt such a compulsion to read on, the way its written it gripped me in its Talon's making me a part of the story from the onset and I was just so motivated to find out the outcome for all involved.
It forged such an emotional connection with me with its flawed but so understandable characters and I found it such addictive reading indeed.
I must admit I did guess quite early on what the twist was but that really didn't affect my overall enjoyment factor at all.
So Our Little Secret tells the story of the night, Sarah happens across Chris at the train station, setting into motion a chain of events after she unexpectedly saves his life.
In return, Chris himself becomes just as determined to keep Sarah safe from the secrets he holds.
As I said earlier I quickly twigged what was occurring but I still really enjoyed this splendidly told mystery.
So Our little Secret quickly drew me in, the writing was fabulous, it had intrigue and mystery in bundles, was really well thought out with multi dimensional characters, that you believed easily and an overall overcast of doom that really got to you.
So would I recommend this?
Well yeah!! Course I would.
Our Little Secret By Darren O'Sullivan doesn't overcomplicate things and as a result, it works
It shows the intricacies of human behaviour lying just beneath the surface and the everyday masks we conceal ourselves behind.
It was a fascinating read I really enjoyed.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for providing me with an arc of Our Little Secret. This is my own unbiased and honest opinion.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.beckiebookworm.com/
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
https://www.beckiebookworm.com
I really wasn't expecting much when I picked up Our little secret By Darren O'Sullivan, not sure why that was but I got a very pleasant surprise indeed as Our little secret is quite the sparkling gem.
From the moment I started this, I felt such a compulsion to read on, the way its written it gripped me in its Talon's making me a part of the story from the onset and I was just so motivated to find out the outcome for all involved.
It forged such an emotional connection with me with its flawed but so understandable characters and I found it such addictive reading indeed.
I must admit I did guess quite early on what the twist was but that really didn't affect my overall enjoyment factor at all.
So Our Little Secret tells the story of the night, Sarah happens across Chris at the train station, setting into motion a chain of events after she unexpectedly saves his life.
In return, Chris himself becomes just as determined to keep Sarah safe from the secrets he holds.
As I said earlier I quickly twigged what was occurring but I still really enjoyed this splendidly told mystery.
So Our little Secret quickly drew me in, the writing was fabulous, it had intrigue and mystery in bundles, was really well thought out with multi dimensional characters, that you believed easily and an overall overcast of doom that really got to you.
So would I recommend this?
Well yeah!! Course I would.
Our Little Secret By Darren O'Sullivan doesn't overcomplicate things and as a result, it works
It shows the intricacies of human behaviour lying just beneath the surface and the everyday masks we conceal ourselves behind.
It was a fascinating read I really enjoyed.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for providing me with an arc of Our Little Secret. This is my own unbiased and honest opinion.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.beckiebookworm.com/
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
July 27, 2017
This book requires a bit of patience and understanding. It's a slow burn. The characters both confused and frustrated me at times. Despite the relatively slow pace through most of it, I had a hard time putting it down. 4.5 out of 5. Sarah is unlike any character I've ever met and I just wanted to shake her sometimes... others I wanted to help her, protect her... not unlike her little sister.
Chris has a plan. He's going to jump under the train. Under, so the driver doesn't have to see him. He will jump under the train that doesn't stop, the train that doesn't carry passengers. He will jump at a time where the station is deserted, so no one will be scarred for life after seeing his final moments and the gore that follows. He will jump on a certain day, one that's important to him and his wife. It's all come down to this. It's time to join his wife.
Until Sarah appears, a stranger that ruins everything. Having left the home of her cheating ex for what she hopes is the last time, she's early to the station. Without money to grab a drink and sit at a bar or cafe, she just plans to wait for her train. This means she's there to witness Chris sway on the platform. At first she's alarmed to be alone with a man she assumes is drunk and maybe unstable, but she sees something good in him. When he eventually notices her, he tries to get her to leave... but something makes her stay. She ruins everything.
After she realizes that she definitely stopped this mysterious man from ending his own life, Sarah becomes a woman obsessed. He will try again, won't he? She can't have that. She feels connected to him somehow. She cannot get him out of her head. She has to find him, has to help him.
Chris doesn't want to be found. He doesn't want to be seen with anyone. The murderer that took his wife from him warned him that he'd be around... watching and waiting. Don't tell, or I'll kill again, someone else important to you. Keep our little secret, or more will die. He lives in fear, slowly becoming more paranoid and pushing everyone away, lying to everyone. But Sarah won't leave him be.
I received an ARC of this book from Net Galley and HarperCollinsUK/HQ Digital, thank you! My opinion is honest and unbiased.
Chris has a plan. He's going to jump under the train. Under, so the driver doesn't have to see him. He will jump under the train that doesn't stop, the train that doesn't carry passengers. He will jump at a time where the station is deserted, so no one will be scarred for life after seeing his final moments and the gore that follows. He will jump on a certain day, one that's important to him and his wife. It's all come down to this. It's time to join his wife.
Until Sarah appears, a stranger that ruins everything. Having left the home of her cheating ex for what she hopes is the last time, she's early to the station. Without money to grab a drink and sit at a bar or cafe, she just plans to wait for her train. This means she's there to witness Chris sway on the platform. At first she's alarmed to be alone with a man she assumes is drunk and maybe unstable, but she sees something good in him. When he eventually notices her, he tries to get her to leave... but something makes her stay. She ruins everything.
After she realizes that she definitely stopped this mysterious man from ending his own life, Sarah becomes a woman obsessed. He will try again, won't he? She can't have that. She feels connected to him somehow. She cannot get him out of her head. She has to find him, has to help him.
Chris doesn't want to be found. He doesn't want to be seen with anyone. The murderer that took his wife from him warned him that he'd be around... watching and waiting. Don't tell, or I'll kill again, someone else important to you. Keep our little secret, or more will die. He lives in fear, slowly becoming more paranoid and pushing everyone away, lying to everyone. But Sarah won't leave him be.
I received an ARC of this book from Net Galley and HarperCollinsUK/HQ Digital, thank you! My opinion is honest and unbiased.
Read
February 6, 2018T/W- Mentions of Suicide
I would like to thank the publishers HQ for sending me a physical ARC of Our Little Secret for review!
As of right now, I'm going to leave the star rating blank because I'm really not sure what to give it. I was very close to DNF'ing it after ten chapters but since the formatting in my copy actually made the length quite short, I decided to finish it. It follows a man called Chris who witnesses a strange man murder his wife Julia and force him to keep this a secret. Otherwise, he will return to murder him. Chris struggles to cope and the story starts with him trying to take his own life, however, is saved by a stranger named Sarah who was travelling home after seeing her ex-boyfriend. During the novel, it becomes clear to Chris that his friends doubt the missing wife flown back to Australia to see her Dad story and want to uncover the truth.
I really didn't enjoy reading this one, I really do love thrillers and scary stories but I found the pacing and storyline to be quite disjointed. The multiple mentions of suicide and some of the actions both Chris and Sarah did also made me feel quite uncomfortable at times. It was graphic and definitely something that shouldn't be read before bedtime since I was feeling a little scared after I finished reading.
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I would like to thank the publishers HQ for sending me a physical ARC of Our Little Secret for review!
As of right now, I'm going to leave the star rating blank because I'm really not sure what to give it. I was very close to DNF'ing it after ten chapters but since the formatting in my copy actually made the length quite short, I decided to finish it. It follows a man called Chris who witnesses a strange man murder his wife Julia and force him to keep this a secret. Otherwise, he will return to murder him. Chris struggles to cope and the story starts with him trying to take his own life, however, is saved by a stranger named Sarah who was travelling home after seeing her ex-boyfriend. During the novel, it becomes clear to Chris that his friends doubt the missing wife flown back to Australia to see her Dad story and want to uncover the truth.
I really didn't enjoy reading this one, I really do love thrillers and scary stories but I found the pacing and storyline to be quite disjointed. The multiple mentions of suicide and some of the actions both Chris and Sarah did also made me feel quite uncomfortable at times. It was graphic and definitely something that shouldn't be read before bedtime since I was feeling a little scared after I finished reading.
Follow my blog: www.marriedtobooksreviewsandblog.word...
August 22, 2017
More book reviews on www.snazzybooks.com
Our Little Secret’s premise is what drew me to this book as it sounded rather intriguing, and it is definitely an interesting read.
I enjoyed that fact that it has the elements of a thriller mixed in with a more character-driven narrative. Part of the story is set in Peterborough, which I always find interesting to read novels about (I’m originally from Peterborough) and so I recognised a lot of the places featured.
The writing itself isn’t what I’d call amazing; it’s engaging enough and an easy read but the writing style didn’t strike me as anything special. That said, the story itself is an easy read and it touches upon some important issues in a sensitive and interesting way.
I have to say that I worked out part the twist from quite near the beginning of the story, which barely ever happens, but I still quite enjoyed it - it was a good twist - and I would read other novels by Darren O’Sullivan in the future.
Many thanks to HarperCollins UK for providing a copy of this novel on which I chose to write an honest and unbiased review.
Our Little Secret’s premise is what drew me to this book as it sounded rather intriguing, and it is definitely an interesting read.
I enjoyed that fact that it has the elements of a thriller mixed in with a more character-driven narrative. Part of the story is set in Peterborough, which I always find interesting to read novels about (I’m originally from Peterborough) and so I recognised a lot of the places featured.
The writing itself isn’t what I’d call amazing; it’s engaging enough and an easy read but the writing style didn’t strike me as anything special. That said, the story itself is an easy read and it touches upon some important issues in a sensitive and interesting way.
I have to say that I worked out part the twist from quite near the beginning of the story, which barely ever happens, but I still quite enjoyed it - it was a good twist - and I would read other novels by Darren O’Sullivan in the future.
Many thanks to HarperCollins UK for providing a copy of this novel on which I chose to write an honest and unbiased review.
August 25, 2017
Psychological thrillers are supposed to be exciting, tense and unexpected, they're supposed to keep you turning the pages wondering what the hell is going on, they're supposed to have shocking twist.
Not this one.
I figured out what had happened and what would happen very early on. That's not me being a cocky sod, you'd have to be in some sort of trance not to see it; the oh so subtle clues were bash me over the head obvious.
Other reviewers say that although they also saw the 'twist' it didn't detract from the story, that they were still enthralled and engaged, that the characters still drew them in, that they still devoured every page.
Not me.
Seeing the 'twist' rendered the whole thing pointless, and with rambling inner monologues that went nowhere slowly, I made it to the half way mark before skimming to the end in the vain hope that after such a blatant plot, the end twist would be that it was all a ruse, that we were meant to think we knew what had happened but had been deliberately conned all along with clever writing, and that the actual twist was a belter.
Nope.
The twist was there was no twist.
A complete waste of time.
Not this one.
I figured out what had happened and what would happen very early on. That's not me being a cocky sod, you'd have to be in some sort of trance not to see it; the oh so subtle clues were bash me over the head obvious.
Other reviewers say that although they also saw the 'twist' it didn't detract from the story, that they were still enthralled and engaged, that the characters still drew them in, that they still devoured every page.
Not me.
Seeing the 'twist' rendered the whole thing pointless, and with rambling inner monologues that went nowhere slowly, I made it to the half way mark before skimming to the end in the vain hope that after such a blatant plot, the end twist would be that it was all a ruse, that we were meant to think we knew what had happened but had been deliberately conned all along with clever writing, and that the actual twist was a belter.
Nope.
The twist was there was no twist.
A complete waste of time.
July 20, 2017
After the murder of his beloved wife Julia, Chris has lost all joy and hope for a better future and has decided to end his life by jumping in front of a train. He has planned it all right down to the last detail: a deserted platform in the middle of the night, a fast moving freight train, no witnesses, no trauma to anyone. Noone would miss him, and no one would have to bear witness to his final desperate act. Except that on the night, things don’t go to plan. A woman arrives on the platform just minutes before the train is due to arrive. And even though Chris tries his best to get rid of her, she refuses to leave. What should he do? Should he still jump and know that the traumatic images of his suicide will haunt this stranger forever?
Sarah’s face is tear-stained as she arrives on the platform late at night. She has just broken up with her boyfriend and her life is a mess. She doesn’t even have enough change for the train ticket, let alone a cup of coffee, so waiting on the dark, windswept platform is her only option. She spots a lone, barefoot stranger standing on the platform, too close to the edge, swaying in the breeze, and recognises in him the same hopeless desperation she feels herself. Tentatively she tries to make contact – and changes both their lives with a simple act of kindness to a stranger.
Apparently, there is an old Chinese proverb that states if you save someone’s life, you become responsible for that person and their actions forever. It’s an interesting premise, and one which would make for a lively discussion after reading Our Little Secret. Sarah is certainly taking her responsibility seriously, tracking down the stranger whose life she unwittingly saved, stalking him, trying to worm her way into his life. I really liked the way O’Sullivan portrayed this damaged woman, whose choice in men is reflected in her own lack of self-worth and despair. Told in alternating chapters from both Sarah’s and Chris’ POV, the story explores the dark places of the human psyche, which would drive a man to seek death as his only option and a woman to seek solace in trying to “fix” the life of a total stranger, whether he wants it or not. Underlying it all is the mystery surrounding Chris’ wife’s death, which has driven him to despair and adds an element of menace and danger underlying the storyline.
Although I had worked out some of the answers fairly early on, I really enjoyed O’Sullivan’s portrayal of his two damaged protagonists and their journey towards the inevitable finale. I really liked the author’s writing style, and his way of introducing little snapshots of his characters’ pasts, which added a constant undercurrent of darkness to the story. Perhaps some clues could have been withheld a bit longer to prolong the mystery for me, but it still kept me interested to the end.
Our Little Secret is a slow-burning psychological thriller exploring the deep dark corners of the human psyche – and how a simple act of kindness to a stranger can change two people’s lives forever. An enjoyable, character-driven debut novel – I look forward to reading more from this author in future. 3.5 stars
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the free electronic copy of this novel and for giving me the opportunity to provide an honest review.
*blog* *facebook* *instagram*
Sarah’s face is tear-stained as she arrives on the platform late at night. She has just broken up with her boyfriend and her life is a mess. She doesn’t even have enough change for the train ticket, let alone a cup of coffee, so waiting on the dark, windswept platform is her only option. She spots a lone, barefoot stranger standing on the platform, too close to the edge, swaying in the breeze, and recognises in him the same hopeless desperation she feels herself. Tentatively she tries to make contact – and changes both their lives with a simple act of kindness to a stranger.
Apparently, there is an old Chinese proverb that states if you save someone’s life, you become responsible for that person and their actions forever. It’s an interesting premise, and one which would make for a lively discussion after reading Our Little Secret. Sarah is certainly taking her responsibility seriously, tracking down the stranger whose life she unwittingly saved, stalking him, trying to worm her way into his life. I really liked the way O’Sullivan portrayed this damaged woman, whose choice in men is reflected in her own lack of self-worth and despair. Told in alternating chapters from both Sarah’s and Chris’ POV, the story explores the dark places of the human psyche, which would drive a man to seek death as his only option and a woman to seek solace in trying to “fix” the life of a total stranger, whether he wants it or not. Underlying it all is the mystery surrounding Chris’ wife’s death, which has driven him to despair and adds an element of menace and danger underlying the storyline.
Although I had worked out some of the answers fairly early on, I really enjoyed O’Sullivan’s portrayal of his two damaged protagonists and their journey towards the inevitable finale. I really liked the author’s writing style, and his way of introducing little snapshots of his characters’ pasts, which added a constant undercurrent of darkness to the story. Perhaps some clues could have been withheld a bit longer to prolong the mystery for me, but it still kept me interested to the end.
Our Little Secret is a slow-burning psychological thriller exploring the deep dark corners of the human psyche – and how a simple act of kindness to a stranger can change two people’s lives forever. An enjoyable, character-driven debut novel – I look forward to reading more from this author in future. 3.5 stars
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the free electronic copy of this novel and for giving me the opportunity to provide an honest review.
*blog* *facebook* *instagram*
April 26, 2018
I have had this book on my wishlist for a while now as that plotline really grabbed my attention! Sounds intriguing doesn’t it?! But then I saw some very mixed reviews and it fell further down the TBR pile. The imminent release of Darrens new book Close Your Eyes made me realise I had better put my big girl pants on, read this one first and make my own mind up! And I’m glad that I did!
I thought that the premise of Our Little Secret was absolutely brilliant! Chris is standing on a deserted railway station platform waiting for a goods train that he is going to throw himself in front of. He has been planning his suicide for nearly a year, down to the finest detail including no witnesses. But he didn’t plan on an unexpected spectator being in the wrong place at the right time to prevent a tragedy occurring. Sarah now feels responsible for the life she saved but that obsession goes both ways and Chris also becomes fixated on stopping Sarah discovering more about the details leading up to that terrible night.
Lots of reviewers have said that they worked out where the plot was going within the first couple of chapters and I do have to say that this is definitely a book that is more about the journey than the destination. What they don’t seem to mention is the beautifully crafted story that revolves around Chris and Sarah and their cat and mouse relationship where we are never too sure who is more in danger of losing their self control. Chris is a man on the edge (literally!!), in the depths of despair from losing his wife and trying to protect all those around him from the person responsible. But Sarah sees something in Chris and feels a connection between them that she can’t let go undiscovered. I loved the chemistry between this couple and found their scenes together full of tension. The build up to the final few pages was completely gripping and the shocking truths really hit home with just the right amount of drama for me.
This was indeed a pageturner, full of emotion and interesting moral dilemmas which kept me glued to my kindle. And as most of you know I have one of those brains where I spot every little spelling mistake etc so I was surprised to read reviews that mentioned these as I certainly didn’t notice any. I must have been too engrossed in the story itself to spot them if they were there!
Overall this is an enjoyable debut showcasing an exciting new talent and I can’t wait to read Close Your Eyes now!
I thought that the premise of Our Little Secret was absolutely brilliant! Chris is standing on a deserted railway station platform waiting for a goods train that he is going to throw himself in front of. He has been planning his suicide for nearly a year, down to the finest detail including no witnesses. But he didn’t plan on an unexpected spectator being in the wrong place at the right time to prevent a tragedy occurring. Sarah now feels responsible for the life she saved but that obsession goes both ways and Chris also becomes fixated on stopping Sarah discovering more about the details leading up to that terrible night.
Lots of reviewers have said that they worked out where the plot was going within the first couple of chapters and I do have to say that this is definitely a book that is more about the journey than the destination. What they don’t seem to mention is the beautifully crafted story that revolves around Chris and Sarah and their cat and mouse relationship where we are never too sure who is more in danger of losing their self control. Chris is a man on the edge (literally!!), in the depths of despair from losing his wife and trying to protect all those around him from the person responsible. But Sarah sees something in Chris and feels a connection between them that she can’t let go undiscovered. I loved the chemistry between this couple and found their scenes together full of tension. The build up to the final few pages was completely gripping and the shocking truths really hit home with just the right amount of drama for me.
This was indeed a pageturner, full of emotion and interesting moral dilemmas which kept me glued to my kindle. And as most of you know I have one of those brains where I spot every little spelling mistake etc so I was surprised to read reviews that mentioned these as I certainly didn’t notice any. I must have been too engrossed in the story itself to spot them if they were there!
Overall this is an enjoyable debut showcasing an exciting new talent and I can’t wait to read Close Your Eyes now!
July 1, 2017
I’m a sucker for a psychological thriller so when I saw this pop up on Twitter I knew I had to request it!
The premise sounds great. A man waiting to throw himself infront of a train, what led him there? Why is that the only solution?
Our Little Secret is the debut novel by Darren O’Sullivan. It begins with a man on a train station platform. This man, Chris, is waiting for a train. Not to get on it, but to jump in front of it, so that he can be reunited with his wife. He doesn’t factor is Sarah, who happens to end up on the platform at the same time. Suddenly, everything he has planned in advance gets thrown in the air as he is unsure what to do.
What follows is a very tense psychological thriller. Chris has lost his wife, and he can’t cope without her. Sarah is struggling along in her own life too. When they are thrown together in unusual circumstances, can they find any good in their lives to share with each other?
I can’t write this review without mentioning this next bit. Within the first few pages, I had it figured out. I don’t know if that’s because I read so many of these books or there were subtleties that I picked up on which were indicators of what was to come. Whatever it was, I knew where the book was going in the first 5% of reading. BUT the author has a real talent for grabbing the reader and not letting them go until the end! Darren O’Sullivan has a great writing style, and he has created some excellent characters. The vignettes into the characters pasts are totally at odds with the current situation, which I loved, as it shows a completely different side to them.
Our Little Secret is definitely gripping. Packed with drama and with a super cast of characters, O’Sullivan is definitely one to watch in the future! If you enjoy psychological thrillers, then this should definitely be on your list!
Recommended!
The premise sounds great. A man waiting to throw himself infront of a train, what led him there? Why is that the only solution?
Our Little Secret is the debut novel by Darren O’Sullivan. It begins with a man on a train station platform. This man, Chris, is waiting for a train. Not to get on it, but to jump in front of it, so that he can be reunited with his wife. He doesn’t factor is Sarah, who happens to end up on the platform at the same time. Suddenly, everything he has planned in advance gets thrown in the air as he is unsure what to do.
What follows is a very tense psychological thriller. Chris has lost his wife, and he can’t cope without her. Sarah is struggling along in her own life too. When they are thrown together in unusual circumstances, can they find any good in their lives to share with each other?
I can’t write this review without mentioning this next bit. Within the first few pages, I had it figured out. I don’t know if that’s because I read so many of these books or there were subtleties that I picked up on which were indicators of what was to come. Whatever it was, I knew where the book was going in the first 5% of reading. BUT the author has a real talent for grabbing the reader and not letting them go until the end! Darren O’Sullivan has a great writing style, and he has created some excellent characters. The vignettes into the characters pasts are totally at odds with the current situation, which I loved, as it shows a completely different side to them.
Our Little Secret is definitely gripping. Packed with drama and with a super cast of characters, O’Sullivan is definitely one to watch in the future! If you enjoy psychological thrillers, then this should definitely be on your list!
Recommended!
August 5, 2017
I thought I would never get to the end of this book. I skipped pages after pages and it still seemed to take forever.
I found the characters very boring and not really worth spending my time. Chris was certainly a boring character. He came off to me as having no redeeming qualities whatsoever as a human. He was boring and his obsession and depression were not even entertaining in the least. The endless pages and pages of him just walking around, depressed, were, for me, very cumbersome. I guessed at the very beginning what had happened to Chris's wife, Julia, and I was correct. I only skipped through to see if it did get better. Which it did I am glad to say at around 81% of the book being read. Much, much too long of a wait for a reader to get intrigued with this book.
I think this would make a great short story with about 75% of the boring stuff cut out.
Thanks to HQ Digital and Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
I found the characters very boring and not really worth spending my time. Chris was certainly a boring character. He came off to me as having no redeeming qualities whatsoever as a human. He was boring and his obsession and depression were not even entertaining in the least. The endless pages and pages of him just walking around, depressed, were, for me, very cumbersome. I guessed at the very beginning what had happened to Chris's wife, Julia, and I was correct. I only skipped through to see if it did get better. Which it did I am glad to say at around 81% of the book being read. Much, much too long of a wait for a reader to get intrigued with this book.
I think this would make a great short story with about 75% of the boring stuff cut out.
Thanks to HQ Digital and Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
April 17, 2018
Unfortunately I had figured out the twist in the first few chapters of the book, which left the entire story kind of moot. I’m hardly inspector Morse, it was very clearly signposted.
July 20, 2017
I. Devoured. This. Book.
The premise is one that draws you in almost immediately, and I just had to keep reading until I found out what happened, and once that picture became clear, I had to know how it turned out.
The book follows two people: Chris, who goes to a train station to kill himself while in a deep depression about his wife, who was killed 10 months before; and Sarah, who happens to run into Chris at the platform and interrupts his plans. Both are then forced to deal with the aftermath and face their personal demons.
The pacing is very quick in this novel - you're thrown right into the situation at the train platform. When I began reading the novel, before I knew it, I had read 10 percent of it! The rest of the novel goes equally as fast as you see both people struggle in the aftermath of their initial meeting.
I liked that it's easy to put yourself in the middle of the story and wonder what would happen if you were there. It's such an average thing - sitting, waiting for a train - that you can't help but think after you read this: what are the others on this platform thinking? You never know, apparently.
The ending is a doozy, and as it becomes clear, it's great. It just grips you.
Highly recommended.
The premise is one that draws you in almost immediately, and I just had to keep reading until I found out what happened, and once that picture became clear, I had to know how it turned out.
The book follows two people: Chris, who goes to a train station to kill himself while in a deep depression about his wife, who was killed 10 months before; and Sarah, who happens to run into Chris at the platform and interrupts his plans. Both are then forced to deal with the aftermath and face their personal demons.
The pacing is very quick in this novel - you're thrown right into the situation at the train platform. When I began reading the novel, before I knew it, I had read 10 percent of it! The rest of the novel goes equally as fast as you see both people struggle in the aftermath of their initial meeting.
I liked that it's easy to put yourself in the middle of the story and wonder what would happen if you were there. It's such an average thing - sitting, waiting for a train - that you can't help but think after you read this: what are the others on this platform thinking? You never know, apparently.
The ending is a doozy, and as it becomes clear, it's great. It just grips you.
Highly recommended.
June 30, 2017
A deserted train station: A man waits. A woman watches.
In the middle of the night Sarah is waiting for the train when she notices a man standing on the platform. A man who thought he would be alone at this hour. Alone so he could step under the train and end his life without any witnesses. Because he doesn't want any witnesses, Chris tries to get rid of Sarah by offering her money so she can go buy herself a cup of coffee to warm herself up while she waits for her train. She mistakes his offer as an act of kindness and instead of leaving feels drawn to him. She soon realizes that something is not right and stays until finally Chris leaves the train station. After Sarah stops Chris from committing suicide she becomes obsessed with finding out who he is and why he wanted to kill himself.
But there are some secrets that are meant to stay buried…
Our Little Secret was a quick read that was pretty engrossing even though the plot was obvious to me almost from the beginning. In fact it was so obvious that I wondered if it was supposed to be a mystery who the killer was. The book is broken mostly into two points of view, Sarah's and Chris's, with the occasional point of view from Chris's friend Steve thrown in. There are also journal entries from Chris's murdered wife. The mystery is all about who killed Chris's wife and why. As I already said though, I figured it out very early on so there was very little mystery for me in this book. Mostly just how exactly it all happened. The why was pretty easy to predict, almost as easy as who had done it.
I thought Sarah made some incredibly stupid choices at times and that really annoyed me. Sarah was not the best judge of character, especially when it came to men and her younger sister and her fiancé pretty much took on a rather parental type role to try and save her from her stupidity. This irked me a little, but I could also understand why they did this. I did not always feel like Sarah's actions were plausible. Who meets some random person and then becomes that obsessed with them? I guess the whole suicide thing played a big part in it, but still, Sarah just seemed like a glutton for punishment with the ex-boyfriend who she kept going back to in the past, even though he treated her badly. To the way she kept going back to Chris, even when he made it clear he didn't want her there. I really can't say that I cared whether she lived or died at the end of the book, but I won't spoil that here.
Despite not really connecting with Sarah and the lack it mystery I still enjoyed this enough to give it three stars. This is one of those books that does not end happily for everyone, but the end was fitting.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher HQ Digital for giving me a copy of this book.
Review also posted at https://writingsofareader.blogspot.com/
In the middle of the night Sarah is waiting for the train when she notices a man standing on the platform. A man who thought he would be alone at this hour. Alone so he could step under the train and end his life without any witnesses. Because he doesn't want any witnesses, Chris tries to get rid of Sarah by offering her money so she can go buy herself a cup of coffee to warm herself up while she waits for her train. She mistakes his offer as an act of kindness and instead of leaving feels drawn to him. She soon realizes that something is not right and stays until finally Chris leaves the train station. After Sarah stops Chris from committing suicide she becomes obsessed with finding out who he is and why he wanted to kill himself.
But there are some secrets that are meant to stay buried…
Our Little Secret was a quick read that was pretty engrossing even though the plot was obvious to me almost from the beginning. In fact it was so obvious that I wondered if it was supposed to be a mystery who the killer was. The book is broken mostly into two points of view, Sarah's and Chris's, with the occasional point of view from Chris's friend Steve thrown in. There are also journal entries from Chris's murdered wife. The mystery is all about who killed Chris's wife and why. As I already said though, I figured it out very early on so there was very little mystery for me in this book. Mostly just how exactly it all happened. The why was pretty easy to predict, almost as easy as who had done it.
I thought Sarah made some incredibly stupid choices at times and that really annoyed me. Sarah was not the best judge of character, especially when it came to men and her younger sister and her fiancé pretty much took on a rather parental type role to try and save her from her stupidity. This irked me a little, but I could also understand why they did this. I did not always feel like Sarah's actions were plausible. Who meets some random person and then becomes that obsessed with them? I guess the whole suicide thing played a big part in it, but still, Sarah just seemed like a glutton for punishment with the ex-boyfriend who she kept going back to in the past, even though he treated her badly. To the way she kept going back to Chris, even when he made it clear he didn't want her there. I really can't say that I cared whether she lived or died at the end of the book, but I won't spoil that here.
Despite not really connecting with Sarah and the lack it mystery I still enjoyed this enough to give it three stars. This is one of those books that does not end happily for everyone, but the end was fitting.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher HQ Digital for giving me a copy of this book.
Review also posted at https://writingsofareader.blogspot.com/
June 8, 2021
Chris is on a station platform late one night intending to throw himself in front of a passing goods train - he is haunted by the death of his wife Julia and the fact that he couldn't prevent her being killed in front of him and unable to go to the police due to threats to his loved ones by the perpetrator. Before he can complete his mission, Sarah arrives on the platform early to wait for her train, having just left her cheating boyfriend. Not wishing to traumatise her, Chris tries to persuade Sarah to leave but she won't so he aborts his attempt and leaves the station. Later realising his intentions, Sarah determines to help Chris and tracks him down. At the same time, Chris's best friend Steve is trying to help Chris come to terms with Julia leaving him as Chris has told him she has gone to Australia to visit her father.... Told in the first person by Chris, Steve and Sarah, together with excerpts from Julia's diary, the days count down to the day Chris has decided he will finally kill himself - but Steve and Sarah have other ideas. It was quite an intriguing read but I had worked out by halfway what had happened. Nevertheless, it was a pretty good read, more 3.5 stars than 4 - 7.5/10.
did-not-finish
August 11, 2018Just getting annoyed with these characters, too many other books to read and enjoy without getting bogged down with this one
August 14, 2017
I've just finished reading Darren's book 'Our Little Secret!'
I'm speechless at how amazing it was and this is his debut novel!
While reading you are pulled into the world of Chris who is grieving the tragic death of his wife Julia silently on his own while keeping a very awful little secret!
With his suicide planned to the second and the minutest detail his plans are succumbed by Sarah, who is curious by Chris and unwittingly saves his life.
The plot was amazingly thought out, with detailed scenes and charectirs that were relatable. It had a tense pace throughout that kept me reading until I finished!
I loved how the final chapters were tied together and the descriptions felt like I was there in the scenes watching from the sidelines. Great detail and descriptions of the events were fantastic!
For a debut novel, Darren has made an amazing break into the author world and lived his dream of becoming an author!
With this, his first book being so gripping, tense and full of suspense, I can't wait to see what subsequent novels will be like. If Our Little Secret is anything to go by Darren O'Sullivan has a very busy career as a new author!
Congratulations Darren on making an astounding crash into the author world!
April 29, 2018
My Review: For a debut book, Our Little Secret is an impressive and well written story, it begins with a gripping opening – a suicidal man about to jump in front of a train and a young lady, Sarah, who happens to be on the same train platform and manages to stop him. What follows is tense and quite dark and if you enjoy twisted psychological thrillers you will enjoy this.
The two central characters, Chris and Sarah, were both extremely damaged individuals and I must admit to taking an instant dislike to Sarah – she was so needy and I wanted to shake her really, really hard (or whack her in the face with a wet fish), but it didn’t detract from the enjoyment of the book.
Unfortunately for me, I did work out the story line at a very early point in the book, but that is probably because I read so many psychological thrillers and it’s beginning to get harder and harder to “surprise” me. Overall, this is a gripping psychological thriller from a talented new author and I look forward to reading more from Darren O’Sullivan.
The two central characters, Chris and Sarah, were both extremely damaged individuals and I must admit to taking an instant dislike to Sarah – she was so needy and I wanted to shake her really, really hard (or whack her in the face with a wet fish), but it didn’t detract from the enjoyment of the book.
Unfortunately for me, I did work out the story line at a very early point in the book, but that is probably because I read so many psychological thrillers and it’s beginning to get harder and harder to “surprise” me. Overall, this is a gripping psychological thriller from a talented new author and I look forward to reading more from Darren O’Sullivan.
June 5, 2017
First of all, I must say a huge BRAVO to Darren O'Sullivan for such a strikingly sharp, cryptic and incredibly well-written debut novel that had me on the edge of my seat from first page to last. I had no expectations going into this novel, which is something I aim to do with all of the books I read now. Half of the time, I don't even read the blurb, because it makes for a nice surprise when you begin reading and figure it out for yourself. That's exactly what I did with 'Our Little Secret' by Darren O'Sullivan. In all honesty, the cover and title were enough to tempt me into its pages, and once within those pages, I couldn't bear to remove myself.
In Darren O'Sullivan's Our Little Secret, readers meet Chris. Chris, it appears, is ready to end his life. He is not scared. He is ready. He is prepared and has organised every single detail for this moment, going so far as to working out train times to the exact second. So it is frustrating for Chris when, on the night he is about to do it, he is interrupted by a young woman, Sarah, who doesn't seem to realise what she has just stepped into. After hopelessly trying to move Sarah on so that he can get on with what he went there to do, when the train roars past and Chris realises he's still well and truly alive, he is furious. He leaves without a backward glance, but Sarah is not ready to let him go so easily. It is only when she puts two and two together that she realises her presence halted the end of another person's life, and so she sets out to find him, because now, after the time she spent with Chris, she feels connected to him somehow, and no matter how hard she tries, she just can't seem to shake him off or forget about him. She needs to see him again. She won't rest until she can.
Darren O'Sullivan has a completely addictive writing style. It is intense, it is all-encompassing, it is gripping and it holds you rigid. Right from the very start, O'Sullivan's portrayal of Chris had me wanting to know more about this character. It became clear instantly that Chris was desperate to join his wife. She had died at the hands of a monster while Chris had watched helplessly, unable to do a single thing about it. Feeling as if he is to blame for his wife's death, Chris thinks that the only way to make up for such a terrible thing taking place is to take his own life so that he can be reunited with her. When O'Sullivan took me back in time to when Chris had first met his wife, I was awed by how tenderly these moments were written. I felt as if I were right there with the characters and was moved by the author's honest descriptions of such a beautiful and life-changing meeting. I also knew that there was so much more to be discovered about Chris, and throughout the novel, I watched as his character began to fully-form, fascinated by him and the way he was living his life. Chris was complex and at times, difficult to understand, but this only made me want to know everything there was to know about him. Not only does O'Sullivan capture Chris perfectly, but he also focuses on the consequences of the choices that Chris makes, making it all the more exciting to read. I absolutely raced through the pages, finding putting the novel down at any time unbearable.
And then, of course, there is Sarah, also a complex and intriguing character. I could completely understand why Sarah became so fascinated with Chris. After all, she stopped this man from taking his own life and that would have an effect on anybody, wouldn't it? I couldn't quite decide whether Sarah was romantically pulled towards Chris or simply desperate to ensure his safety and well-being after their meeting on the train platform. I admired her determination to seek Chris out though, and wondered if anything would take place between them. Chris seemed adamant that there was no room in his life for anybody, not even his closest friends who he'd distanced himself from. And so, when Sarah continues to push and push, I couldn't wait to see the effect that her doing so would have on Chris.
O'Sullivan includes a number of tough topics within his debut with HQ Digital UK, but deals with them in a serious and realistic way. I was utterly spellbound by the story and then, much later on, couldn't believe the turn of events and the direction in which the author took me. I loved it, and found myself wondering how on earth the author had managed to pull it off. It was incredible and dangerously gripping. I found myself thinking about this book long after I had finished because it had that much of an effect on me. Believe me when I say that I cannot wait to see what this author has in store for us next. An absolutely phenomenal debut. One that I'll be telling everybody about because it is that flipping brilliant. With thanks to the publisher for the review copy of this book.
In Darren O'Sullivan's Our Little Secret, readers meet Chris. Chris, it appears, is ready to end his life. He is not scared. He is ready. He is prepared and has organised every single detail for this moment, going so far as to working out train times to the exact second. So it is frustrating for Chris when, on the night he is about to do it, he is interrupted by a young woman, Sarah, who doesn't seem to realise what she has just stepped into. After hopelessly trying to move Sarah on so that he can get on with what he went there to do, when the train roars past and Chris realises he's still well and truly alive, he is furious. He leaves without a backward glance, but Sarah is not ready to let him go so easily. It is only when she puts two and two together that she realises her presence halted the end of another person's life, and so she sets out to find him, because now, after the time she spent with Chris, she feels connected to him somehow, and no matter how hard she tries, she just can't seem to shake him off or forget about him. She needs to see him again. She won't rest until she can.
Darren O'Sullivan has a completely addictive writing style. It is intense, it is all-encompassing, it is gripping and it holds you rigid. Right from the very start, O'Sullivan's portrayal of Chris had me wanting to know more about this character. It became clear instantly that Chris was desperate to join his wife. She had died at the hands of a monster while Chris had watched helplessly, unable to do a single thing about it. Feeling as if he is to blame for his wife's death, Chris thinks that the only way to make up for such a terrible thing taking place is to take his own life so that he can be reunited with her. When O'Sullivan took me back in time to when Chris had first met his wife, I was awed by how tenderly these moments were written. I felt as if I were right there with the characters and was moved by the author's honest descriptions of such a beautiful and life-changing meeting. I also knew that there was so much more to be discovered about Chris, and throughout the novel, I watched as his character began to fully-form, fascinated by him and the way he was living his life. Chris was complex and at times, difficult to understand, but this only made me want to know everything there was to know about him. Not only does O'Sullivan capture Chris perfectly, but he also focuses on the consequences of the choices that Chris makes, making it all the more exciting to read. I absolutely raced through the pages, finding putting the novel down at any time unbearable.
And then, of course, there is Sarah, also a complex and intriguing character. I could completely understand why Sarah became so fascinated with Chris. After all, she stopped this man from taking his own life and that would have an effect on anybody, wouldn't it? I couldn't quite decide whether Sarah was romantically pulled towards Chris or simply desperate to ensure his safety and well-being after their meeting on the train platform. I admired her determination to seek Chris out though, and wondered if anything would take place between them. Chris seemed adamant that there was no room in his life for anybody, not even his closest friends who he'd distanced himself from. And so, when Sarah continues to push and push, I couldn't wait to see the effect that her doing so would have on Chris.
O'Sullivan includes a number of tough topics within his debut with HQ Digital UK, but deals with them in a serious and realistic way. I was utterly spellbound by the story and then, much later on, couldn't believe the turn of events and the direction in which the author took me. I loved it, and found myself wondering how on earth the author had managed to pull it off. It was incredible and dangerously gripping. I found myself thinking about this book long after I had finished because it had that much of an effect on me. Believe me when I say that I cannot wait to see what this author has in store for us next. An absolutely phenomenal debut. One that I'll be telling everybody about because it is that flipping brilliant. With thanks to the publisher for the review copy of this book.
November 2, 2019
This novel has an interesting and unusual concept and I enjoyed it despite the bleakness of the subject.
Graphic detail may not suit everyone.
At times, I would have preferred more dialogue and less narrative but that said, it's an impressive work.
Graphic detail may not suit everyone.
At times, I would have preferred more dialogue and less narrative but that said, it's an impressive work.
July 20, 2017
I am absolutely thrilled that I had the opportunity to read an advance copy of Our Little Secret as it looked and sounded fantastic. Then, just before I started to read it, I found out that it’s setting was in and around my home city, Peterborough, which intrigued me more.
The book opens on the outskirts of Peterborough, in a fenland town with a remote train station (well it’s remote at that time of night!). Chris Hayes is preparing to kill himself, to throw himself in front of the freight train that he knows passes through at the same time each evening. Meticilous planning has gone into this night, he has chosen March train station because, from his practice runs, he knows that it will be deserted due to the time between the passenger trains……however the real thing doesn’t go according to plan as there is someone present, Sarah.
Sarah is engrossed in her own problems when she sees Chris on the platform, at first she just thinks that he has had one too many drinks and waiting for the same train as she is. But then she begins to notice little things that just don’t add up – Sarah wasn’t expecting to have prevented a suicide that evening…..but then she cannot stop thinking about this mystery man and his despair.
Told from both Chris and Sarah’s perspectives, Our Little Secret is very atmospheric and right from the start the tension builds, it feels as though that the reader is bystander who can do nothing to stop the course of the events unfolding. O’Sullivan’s writing is great, it pulls the reader in, with good use of the dual narrative as well as the descriptions of the world around Chris and Sarah.
I’m a massive fan of psychological thrillers and I’ll be honest, I had this one worked out just before the midway point but this didn’t impact my enjoyment of the book. I wanted to keep going to discover if I was right, and also I ended up questioning whether I was correct so it certainly kept me gripped. Our Little Secret is an emotional read as well as a tense one as it deals with depression, despair and suicidal themes – all of which were sensitively handled by the author.
I really enjoyed O’Sullivan’s debut and he is definitely one to keep a watch on, I look forward to what his second book brings.
The book opens on the outskirts of Peterborough, in a fenland town with a remote train station (well it’s remote at that time of night!). Chris Hayes is preparing to kill himself, to throw himself in front of the freight train that he knows passes through at the same time each evening. Meticilous planning has gone into this night, he has chosen March train station because, from his practice runs, he knows that it will be deserted due to the time between the passenger trains……however the real thing doesn’t go according to plan as there is someone present, Sarah.
Sarah is engrossed in her own problems when she sees Chris on the platform, at first she just thinks that he has had one too many drinks and waiting for the same train as she is. But then she begins to notice little things that just don’t add up – Sarah wasn’t expecting to have prevented a suicide that evening…..but then she cannot stop thinking about this mystery man and his despair.
Told from both Chris and Sarah’s perspectives, Our Little Secret is very atmospheric and right from the start the tension builds, it feels as though that the reader is bystander who can do nothing to stop the course of the events unfolding. O’Sullivan’s writing is great, it pulls the reader in, with good use of the dual narrative as well as the descriptions of the world around Chris and Sarah.
I’m a massive fan of psychological thrillers and I’ll be honest, I had this one worked out just before the midway point but this didn’t impact my enjoyment of the book. I wanted to keep going to discover if I was right, and also I ended up questioning whether I was correct so it certainly kept me gripped. Our Little Secret is an emotional read as well as a tense one as it deals with depression, despair and suicidal themes – all of which were sensitively handled by the author.
I really enjoyed O’Sullivan’s debut and he is definitely one to keep a watch on, I look forward to what his second book brings.
November 1, 2017
I definitely wouldn't class 'Our Little Secret' a thriller, or even a mystery. I picked exactly what was going on, very early on and there was no 'ah ha!' moment at the end when I realized I had predicted exactly what went on.
Our Little Secret tells the story of Sarah, a young woman who comes across a man on the train platform, waiting to jump in front of the next train. Sarah interferes without knowing it and prevents him from jumping. After he leaves, she discovers his suicide note and realizes what she just stopped. From here on in, it gets really weird as Sarah becomes obsessed with a mentally ill suicidal Chris. Seriously weird. but just my opinion.
Our Little Secret tells the story of Sarah, a young woman who comes across a man on the train platform, waiting to jump in front of the next train. Sarah interferes without knowing it and prevents him from jumping. After he leaves, she discovers his suicide note and realizes what she just stopped. From here on in, it gets really weird as Sarah becomes obsessed with a mentally ill suicidal Chris. Seriously weird. but just my opinion.
April 6, 2018
So predictable
I wished Sarah had pushed him! Like many readers I try to give the author a chance - reading on hoping for better things. But no, this didn't get better and I found myself missing chunks of text where I became mind-numbingly bored. What were the publishers thinking?
I wished Sarah had pushed him! Like many readers I try to give the author a chance - reading on hoping for better things. But no, this didn't get better and I found myself missing chunks of text where I became mind-numbingly bored. What were the publishers thinking?
September 18, 2018
With one of the best openings I've read in a while, this is a cracking and fast-paced read. And even though I sort of figured it out halfway, its the kind of thriller where it doesn't matter, because the how and why was as graipping as the who. Highly recommend.
February 24, 2024
Great read!
June 7, 2017
Thank you Darren O'Sullivan and Netgalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I have to say that I struggled to get through this book. I worked out the plot early on and found a lot of chapters were really just fluff puffing up the story line. To be honest I found it quite boring, droning on and on, and then WHAM! finished, done.
There are just so many fast paced, on the edge of your seat novels out there that this one just felt very flat to me.
2 1/2 stars from me.
I have to say that I struggled to get through this book. I worked out the plot early on and found a lot of chapters were really just fluff puffing up the story line. To be honest I found it quite boring, droning on and on, and then WHAM! finished, done.
There are just so many fast paced, on the edge of your seat novels out there that this one just felt very flat to me.
2 1/2 stars from me.
January 31, 2019
#FirstLine ~ Eight minutes.
This book was wonderfully twisty and turny! I was engrossed the whole time. A delight of a read that kept me on the edge of the my seat. I loved how I never really knew what was going to happen. I adored the edgy nature and gritty tone of the book. A must read for thriller fans!
This book was wonderfully twisty and turny! I was engrossed the whole time. A delight of a read that kept me on the edge of the my seat. I loved how I never really knew what was going to happen. I adored the edgy nature and gritty tone of the book. A must read for thriller fans!
February 26, 2019
I received a free e-copy of this book from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Chris is about to enact on his plan to kill himself to join his dead wife when his well-thought out plan is interrupted by Sarah. When Sarah stumbles across Chris on the edge of a train platform, she can't walk away and forget about him, and instead enters his life and begins an intense relationship. However, there's a mystery about the death of Chris's wife and a shadowy figure that appears to be shadowing everything he does. Is Chris who he says he is, and is Sarah safe with him?
Our Little Secret is a rather intense, fast-paced thriller that I was able to read in one day. I really enjoyed the slow reveals about Chris and his wife, and how what appeared to have happened to her wasn't at all what the reader would at first assume. His mind really begins to unravel throughout the book and it's definitely a journey trying to decide whether the reader can trust him or not.
Sarah was, to be honest, a little bit of a wet blanket and a bit surface level throughout the novel. A lot of her personality development appeared to be her penchant for loving abusive and terrible men, and we didn't get a lot into her background as to why this may be and why she is so unhappy with her life apart from the shambles of her love life. I liked the weird relationship she had with Chris, though at times the way she described their sex life could be troubling.
I will say, this book does need to be come with a trigger warning for those suffering with their mental health and who may be battling suicidal thoughts. Chris really gets into the way he planned to kill himself by jumping in front of the train, and those scenes are intense, descriptive and a bit troubling.
Chris is about to enact on his plan to kill himself to join his dead wife when his well-thought out plan is interrupted by Sarah. When Sarah stumbles across Chris on the edge of a train platform, she can't walk away and forget about him, and instead enters his life and begins an intense relationship. However, there's a mystery about the death of Chris's wife and a shadowy figure that appears to be shadowing everything he does. Is Chris who he says he is, and is Sarah safe with him?
Our Little Secret is a rather intense, fast-paced thriller that I was able to read in one day. I really enjoyed the slow reveals about Chris and his wife, and how what appeared to have happened to her wasn't at all what the reader would at first assume. His mind really begins to unravel throughout the book and it's definitely a journey trying to decide whether the reader can trust him or not.
Sarah was, to be honest, a little bit of a wet blanket and a bit surface level throughout the novel. A lot of her personality development appeared to be her penchant for loving abusive and terrible men, and we didn't get a lot into her background as to why this may be and why she is so unhappy with her life apart from the shambles of her love life. I liked the weird relationship she had with Chris, though at times the way she described their sex life could be troubling.
I will say, this book does need to be come with a trigger warning for those suffering with their mental health and who may be battling suicidal thoughts. Chris really gets into the way he planned to kill himself by jumping in front of the train, and those scenes are intense, descriptive and a bit troubling.
August 28, 2017
What a strange reading experience Our Little Secret is. It begins quite compellingly, then starts slowly coming off the rails as the book progresses. By the conclusion, the train wreck is literally and figuratively complete, and you may briefly consider awarding it 5 stars just for doing you the favor of finally ending.
This book feels like it was written by two different authors, one who cared deeply about their characters and story, and the other who wanted to wrap it up as quickly as possible before taking a month off to lie on a beach.
Sadly, both authors are madly in love with sentence fragments. To illustrate:
“I found some shoeboxes stacked two high. Six in total. I opened the first one. It was full of photos. Pausing to listen I made sure I could still hear him downstairs. I had a few more minutes. I picked up a handful of the photos. Each one containing him and the blonde woman. In one they were arm in arm, beaming with smiles in front of an old church somewhere. No doubt a picture of their wedding venue.”
The frequency of this type of stilted phrasing gets worse as the book goes on, as if Chris’s psychological unhinging is directly tied to the author’s own increasing mental chaos. I don’t know of anyone who writes or thinks in such chopped up sentences save the truly illiterate. Clearly someone made the writer a bet that they couldn’t sell a book this painful to read, and somehow that someone lost.
Unfortunately, it’s not just the writing style that grates. By the end, I realized that Chris Hayes isn’t the only person using Sarah, as she basically becomes little more than a device to slowly reveal and highlight the main character’s descent into madness. The ending doesn’t dispel that impression.
If I had to sum up my feelings for this book in four words, it would probably be “I am not amused”. Either that, or “please make it stop”.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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