Things I Never Told You

Thatcher Sisters #1

by Beth K. Vogt

“With tenderness and skill, Beth Vogt examines the price of secrets, the weight of tragic loss, and the soul-deep poison of things left unsaid.” ―Lisa Wingate, NYT bestselling author of Before We Were Yours

It’s been ten years since Payton Thatcher’s twin sister died in an accident, leaving the entire family to cope in whatever ways they could. No longer half of a pair, Payton reinvents herself as a partner in a successful party-planning business and is doing just fine―as long as she manages to hold her memories and her family at arm’s length.

But with her middle sister Jillian’s engagement, Payton’s party-planning skills are called into action. Which means working alongside her opinionated oldest sister, Johanna, who always seems ready for a fight. They can only hope that a wedding might be just the occasion to heal the resentment and jealousy that divides them . . . until a frightening diagnosis threatens Jillian’s plans and her future. As old wounds are reopened and the family faces the possibility of another tragedy, the Thatchers must decide if they will pull together or be driven further apart.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Contemporary, Christian, Fiction, Romance, Inspirational, Adult Fiction

432 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2018

About the author

Beth K. Vogt is a non-fiction author and editor who said she’d never write fiction. She’s the wife of an Air Force family physician (now in solo practice) who said she’d never marry a doctor—or anyone in the military. She’s a mom of four who said she’d never have kids. Now Beth believes God’s best often waits behind the doors marked “Never.” The Best We’ve Been, the final book in Beth’s Thatcher Sisters Series with Tyndale House Publishers, releases May 2020. Other books in the series include Things I Never Told You, which one the 2019 AWSA Award for Contemporary Novel of the Year, and Moments We Forget.
Beth is a 2016 Christy Award winner, a 2016 ACFW Carol Award winner, and a 2015 RITA® finalist. Her 2014 novel, Somebody Like You, was one of Publisher’s Weekly’s Best Books of 2014. A November Bride was part of the Year of Wedding Series by Zondervan. Having authored nine contemporary romance novels or novellas, Beth believes there’s more to happily-ever-after than the fairy tales tell us.
An established magazine writer and former editor of the leadership magazine for MOPS International, Beth blogs for Learn How to Write a Novel and The Write Conversation and also enjoys speaking to writers group and mentoring other writers. She lives in Colorado with her husband Rob, who has adjusted to discussing the lives of imaginary people. Connect with Beth at bethvogt.com.

Reviews

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightful novel this is! I already knew I loved Beth Vogt's romantic stories, so while I was curious about the direction she would go with a new genre, I also knew I was in for some excellent storytelling.

In fact, this book is SO good that I am feeling myself inadequate to review it! It unfolds bit by bit like the opening of a flower as Payton confronts her past and Jillian confronts her deepest fears. The combo of Payton being told in first person and Jillian in third was unusual and very effective for their stories. I also really enjoyed Zach's portions.

It's unusual to find a Christian book that features two MCs that aren't saved. It's even more unusual to find one that expresses a lost lifestyle and perspective with both honesty and tact. There is nothing inappropriate here, and yet it is true to life and easy to see where having a grounded faith would help fill the empty parts in their lives. This is exactly how such books should be done! Beautiful crafting of the POV here.

The level of storytelling in this book is just so rich and beautiful. Prepare to be swept into the tale and begin living the life of the sisters.

Thanks to the author for a free copy for review purposes.

[Andrea Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

FTC DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, which was NOT required to be positive. What follows are my honest thoughts and opinions.

This five-star, page-flying book felt very much like a soul-deep, sister-love letter to Ms. Vogt's own sisters, which enhanced the emotional aspect of this story for me. Surprisingly, I only teared up a couple of times in this maiden read. I have a feeling that will change in future readings. This is an amazing and deeply emotional story.

One thing I really enjoyed about it was how the mood reminded me of one of my favorite movies: Collateral Beauty. Both that movie and this book feature journeys toward accepting the realities of loss and grief. That's a journey that's crucial to our existence, because nothing lasts forever here on Earth.

The pace of this story was super fast. I flew through over 400 pages in only three days. Three days, y'all! That's pretty epic for me and that many pages. The content of the story -- all the ups and downs, drama, misunderstandings, love, passion, and heart of the Thatcher sisters' lives -- wasn't always easy to read about, but the toughness of this story is handled with such exquisite grace and redemption and humor that I couldn't help but become completely immersed in the story world Ms. Vogt had created. Of course, her characters helped out a lot, because they were very realistic and, quite frankly, studies in human nature. I admire how Ms. Vogt was able to craft such true-to-life perspectives and draw out the inner thoughts that make familial relationships so tricky to navigate.

Another thing that well impressed me was how Ms. Vogt chose to use two third-person POVs as well as one first-person POV. Typically, this is not something I enjoy; either do them all in third or first, but definitely pick one. However, the author voice was so unique and well established, easily threading in Ms. Vogt's trademark sense of humor, that I found myself quickly falling in love with this style of writing. I'm not saying I'll love every book with a variety of POV styles in it, but this one was definitely a winner for me.

The perspective of a non-Christian POV character in a Christian book is something that's incredibly difficult to pull off well. This one was executed perfectly, with off-the-page sins, layers of conviction (of those sins), and the drawing of the soul toward God and Christianity. The characters were raw, real, and not always pretty. But the way they felt and expressed things not only showed where they were emotionally, but also where they were heading spiritually. It was a beautifully written journey that I am eager to reread as soon as my pre-ordered hardback copy comes in.

Right now, this book is tied with Wish You Were Here as my favorite Beth Vogt book. It has the potential to boot WYWH out of that top spot, but I need to read them back-to-back in order to tell for certain which one I like best. Either way it turns out, they're both fabulous books that I love and will be rereading multiple times over the years.

Added bonus to this story: Volleyball! I love playing and watching volleyball, and having it featured in an epic book was amazing and brought delight to my sports-loving heart.

This is my favorite book of 2018 so far, and I fully believe it deserves to be an award-winning best-seller.

Content:
* alcohol
* depression
* death
* drugs
* pre-marital sex
* cancer
(All of these things were handled with care and grace.)

[Kate Willis · Rating 3 out of 5]

I buddy read this book with The Awesome Mikayla, and we chose it as a brand new book in common from our TBRs. It was pretty fun going into it blind because we got to share our agonies and theories together over messages. ;)

I loved how real this book felt. As broken as they were, the sister interactions were so accurate. I connected with everyone’s emotions, and the slow, gradual character arcs were some of the best I’ve ever seen.

I liked the value placed on respectful men (Ditch the creepers! Choose the patient, loving ones!) and supportive best friends and amazing mentors. We need more of those, please. Coach Sydney was one of my favorite characters. :D

I felt for Payton so much. I can’t imagine losing a sister, much less a twin. And holding onto shame and secrets and guilt for ten. whole. years?? *cries* (I got pretty angry with Johanna on her behalf sometimes. O.o.) I loved the bright spots in her life with volleyball and party planning, and--as weird as they were--her dream sequences were something I looked forward to. I was rooting for the Christians in her life to break through to her, and I loved how God used them despite their imperfections.

Jillian is me. Not in all ways, but her insecurities and peacemaking and introversion and everything… I was sooo invested in her story, and I longed for her to find the Something more powerful than all the positive thoughts in the world. She and Geoff had me happy and hopeful and swooning and scared. I’m really pleased with how that whole storyline turned out. :D (And the lavender dress. And shaggy, sweet puppy. And admissions and apologies. <3 )

Another amazing thing was how slowly and subtly the mystery was revealed. It was also really sweet to watch the sisters grow in empathy toward and understanding of each other in just the subtlest of ways.

This was not an easy book to read by any means. Stressful family situations, mentions of underage drinking, death, suicidal thoughts, and a mental hospital… The medical details made me uncomfortable with their realism. With all the sadness and yuck, it seemed like the problems were solved too early and too easily. I expected a bigger climax and much, much more Gospel power. I don’t need every story to include a conversion, but I was hoping for at least a recognition that they couldn’t fix their lives on their own. But in a series, endings are really quite temporary, so I’m waiting to see. ;)

Just a note, an engaged couple sleep together though they don’t take it any farther. Also, a pushy boyfriend is implied to stay over some nights and is pushing for more with some not-so-subtle comments. There’s also a side mention of a runaway husband. Because of the cancer storyline, there are discussions of the aftermath of a mastectomy including one with her fiance and some worries about a wedding night.

Best quote: "Healing relationships take time—and it’s not just up to you to make it happen. Believe me, I know."

Altogether, I enjoyed this contemporary sister story. (Mental note to self: look for more “women’s fiction”. It’s a cool genre.) And buddy reading made it extra amazing. :D I'm looking forward to the sequel, especially since it looks like it's about Jillian!

Check out Mikayla's review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

[Cara Putman · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Sisters can be complicated, a fact deftly and delicately highlighted by Things I Never Told You. This beautifully told story tugged me into the lives of 3 sisters separated by tragedy and time. The book is a beautiful tale of redemption and hope in the midst of darkness and fear. It is filled with characters that will stick with you long after you read the final line…and wish for just a few more.”
— Cara Putman, Award-Winning Author of Shadowed by Grace and Imperfect Justice

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book took me on a deep, powerful, and sometimes emotionally difficult to read journey. Things I Never Told you tells the story of a family who was torn apart by tragedy. And even before that, things were not as great as they may have seemed from the outside looking in.

It was a tale of sisters and how they related to each other. I had a lot of trouble reading about Johanna’s domineering and abrasive personality. I really loved Jillian and Geoff. Their relationship and trials kept me turning the pages.

I felt so sad for Payton and all that she went through, both past and present. I appreciated the way the author used flashbacks and dreams to tell the story of her relationship with her deceased twin, Pepper.

I was impressed with the author’s ability to write a realistic story with most of the characters as nonbelievers. Yet, she was able to impart the gospel message and leave the reader hopeful that, somewhere within the series, some of these characters might come to know the Lord.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beth Vogt's first women's fiction book was very well done. Things I Never Told You is about four sisters. One of the sisters died tragically at age 16 and the remaining three each have their own issues they are working through. The author does a wonderful job of bringing to life the feelings of each of the sisters.

Things I Never Told You is primarily about middle sister Jillian and the youngest Payton. I am super glad this is a series because it is clear oldest sister Johanna has a lot she is working through that wasn't brought to light in this first Thatcher Sisters Novel.

Secondary characters were wonderful as well. I especially loved Geoff, Zach and Harper.

[Madison · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars. Things I Never Told You is both heartbreaking and uplifting, a story of sisters, grief, long-held secrets, the things that pull a family apart and the steps needed to bring healing to broken relationships.

Ten years ago, Payton Thatcher’s twin sister died. The Thatcher family coped in different ways, with Payton pulling away from her two older sisters. Now, Payton helps run an event planning business and is forced into working with her eldest sister, Johanna, to plan their middle sister, Jillian’s wedding. But a shocking diagnosis leaves Jillian reeling, while the ten-year anniversary of Pepper’s death has Payton caught in a web of grief and guilt. As the Thatcher sisters face life’s challenges, present and past, they have the opportunity to reassess - both their individual life choices and aspirations, and their relationship as sisters.

Things I Never Told You has been marketed as women’s fiction, not contemporary romance. And it does have, from the cover and synopsis to the story itself, a more introspective and reflective tone. However, there is still a hint of romance, both in Jillian’s relationship with her fiancé and with Payton’s story as she reconnects with an old classmate. However, sisterly relationships, grief, reconciliation and self-evaluation are the dominant threads of this novel.

The chapters switch between Payton’s first-person narration to third-person from the perspectives of both Payton’s sister, Jillian, and Payton’s old classmate, Zach. It was a little disorientating as they switch, but it works to clearly delineate between Payton’s story and the perspectives of those around her. I also got Payton and Pepper, and Jillian and Johanna a bit confused at first, with their similar name groupings. Yet as the story unfolds, these four very different sisters, connected by childhood and tragedy, became endearing and distinct characters, each struggling with their own battles.

By a few chapters in, it is clear that there is far more to the story of Things I Never Told You than first expected. Payton, as well as carrying grief over her twin’s death, also carries guilt and a secret she has kept for the past ten years. It is robbing her of a chance to embrace her life. Through frequent flashbacks to Payton’s childhood and dream conversations she holds with her sister, readers slowly piece together the truth of what transpired ten years ago and what ruptured the relationship between Payton and her two elder sisters. Exploring the past leads Payton to connect with Zach, an old classmate who was involved in the tragedy of Pepper’s death. Told alongside Payton’s story, is Jillian’s battle with cancer and the effect this has on her self-esteem, and her relationship with her fiancé. The chapter sections from Jillian’s perspective allow her story and pain to resonate - bringing a further element to this complex and interwoven novel.

The Christian faith elements of Things I Never Told You are delicately woven into the story, yet do not become a focus of the book. Neither Payton, nor any of her living family members are Christian. It is through both Zach and Pepper that Payton begins to encounter God, and Payton is only beginning to explore her sister’s faith at the close of the book. I really hope there is to be a second Thatcher Sisters novel. Payton’s story has so much more potential, from her just-beginning faith journey to her friendship with Zach, Jillian’s battle has only just started, and Johanna didn’t get a chance to tell her story in this book. There is so much more to explore in the Thatcher sisters’ lives.

Things I Never Told You is both uplifting and heartbreaking, and I highly recommend it to readers who enjoy stories about relationships and reconciliation.

The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.

Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

As one of four sisters, I know how siblings can push our buttons, cut us down, lift us up, extend forgiveness, sacrifice for us, give more than we could ever expect, and know us the way no one else ever could. I found all this and more in Beth Vogt’s latest book, a story of sisters dealing with life and the self-doubt, competition, guilt, bitterness, disappointment, and pain that tend to accompany “adulting.”

Beth spills out onto the page the secrets and heartaches these sisters are hiding and lets us see how those feelings affect their relationships and life choices. Then events push them to crossroads where they must decide if reconciliation, peace, joy, and love are worth fighting for.

It’s a beautiful thing when the healing begins and the sisters start to learn what being a family really is. Though there is more of this family’s story to play out, the ending of this first book in the series is uplifting and hopeful. An uplifting, satisfying read!

[Robin Hatcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Things I Never Told You, Beth K. Vogt deftly explores family dynamics, the push and pull between sisters, the pain of loss, the journey of grief, the beauty of forgiveness, and so much more. I rejoiced and wept with these characters and was sorry to let them go when I reached the end. Highly recommended!
— Robin Lee Hatcher, RITA & Christy Award-winning author

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Things I Never Told You is the first book in the Thatcher Sisters series and I absolutely loved it. The story was complex and had several different storylines, but it wasn't confusing and I loved following along. I liked all the sisters and could relate to certain aspects.

The read did get a bit emotional, which just made it even more gripping and hard to put down. There were also some sweet moments and I loved how a certain thing turned out. It was unexpected, but a lovely way for the story to go.

I cannot wait to read the next book when it comes out, as I still have some questions regarding the sisters. I definitely recommend Things I Never Told You. It was a phenomenal contemporary read!

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This wan't as difficult of a book to read as I had imagined. It deals with sisters, loss, and grief, but it focuses more on the process of healing that they go through- not only with their grief but also their fractured relationships. There was an underlying sense of change and turning towards something new, even when some of the characters felt helpless or hopeless. Payton had an authentic voice, and her part of the story is told in first person, so I would consider her the main character. We also see some third person point of view from Jillian, the sister diagnosed with cancer, and Zach, the acquaintance from high school that is seeking to make things right with Pepper's death. The journey is heartfelt but never corny or cliche. The dynamics of the sisters' relationship is forefront in the plot as they are brought together and undergo a little pressure cooking from wedding planning, the cancer, memories of Pepper, and the holidays. I appreciated that part of the change in the end involved forgiveness and choices to try harder and allow a new dynamic to form. One of my favorite quotes from the book came from Jillian's thoughts:

"Could things be changing between her and Johanna and Payton? Shifting so they could have better- more respectful- communication? Learn to accept one another as adults, not just continue to react to each other the way they had growing up?"

Also this from Pepper: "Sometimes you just have to forget all the other stuff and remember we're sisters."

I'm glad that I read this book as it prompted me to examine the relationships I have with my own sisters and think of ways I can be a better sister and friend. And that's what really good books do ;)

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions expressed in this review are my own)

[Heidi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well-written novel with complex characters struggling to find their footing after the loss of a family member. At the heart of the story, this novel is about sisters and the complex web involved in being a sister. Each of the Thatcher family members fall back on their expected roles as part of their coping strategy, which leads to layers of pain compounding over time. I felt the author crafted this relational dynamic in a way that truly mirrored real life scenarios. Humans have a tremendous capacity to push each other's buttons as well as try to help in ways that aren't really all that helpful. Each of the Thatcher sisters seems to wrestle with loving well in the midst of tremendous heartache, which makes for a poignant read.
The dialog, pacing, and subtle romantic elements kept me deeply engrossed in the story. Most of all, I appreciated the way Payton was able to examine her doubts and uncertainties about her faith in God. Her growth as a character throughout the novel was both authentic and plausible.
Nicely done, Beth Vogt! I look forward to reading more in this series.

Many thanks to the publisher for a complimentary advance copy.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a great book on so many levels. The writing is superb and the many characters add so much depth. There is a lot going on in this book, but it is so well written that it flows nicely. I loved the dynamic between the sisters and the whole family. I love books with family and a family with issues at that. I really could go on but I so enjoyed this book. I am eager to read the next in the series and if you haven't read any books by Beth Vogt you MUST!



"I received this book from Tyndale Publishers for free. All opinions are my own."

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Sometimes you just have to forget all the other stuff and remember we're sisters."

It's a tale of three sisters; no, it's actually a tale of four. Johanna, Jillian and Payton Thatcher have a sister-sized hole within their hearts; the result of a tragic accident that took the life of Payton's twin, Pepper, ten years earlier. Still reeling from the shock, Payton has buried her grief deep inside her soul, throwing her time and efforts into her event planning business, constantly bickering with her oldest sister, and at times feeling awkward around the other one. It all comes crashing down around her when Payton begins dreaming conversations with her deceased sibling, and another potential tragedy unexpectedly looms on the horizon.

"If there's one thing he'd learned since God had broken into his life, it was that He was always working in the waiting times."

Zachary Gaines has waited ten years to ask the Thatcher family for forgiveness. His role in their family tragedy triggered a spiral of unhealthy behavior that has lasted nearly a decade. His first encounter with Payton Thatcher went badly, and the second even worse. But he's confident that Payton is severely broken, and that God has called him to be a part of her restoration for; "he could only hope that Pepper was in heaven. And he would continue to pray for Payton, the sister still on earth."

This book is going to be extremely personal for many people on many different levels; the varying personalities of the characters both annoying and endearing, their choices and perspectives quite heartbreaking and realistic, but in the end truth reigns supreme, where it should have been all along.

"Perseverance is not a long race; it is many short races one after the other."

I was given a copy of this book by the author and publisher. The opinions stated are entirely my own.

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beth Vogt's latest novel explores all the intricate complications of family dynamics. Rich with spiritual truths, emotionally compelling and endearing characters, Things I Never Told You peels back layers of the soul, exposing the dangers of secrets kept, and the freedom found when light shines through the darkness as the truth is told. A beautiful reading experience not to be missed.

[Suzie Waltner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some families are close, they share everything with each other. Siblings are best friends and talk every day. And then there are families like the Thatchers.

Things I Never Told you is a deep exploration of the lengthy shadow cast over this family’s relationships by tragedy. Payton once confided in her twin sister but shame at her part in the death of Pepper has caused her to avoid her family more often than not. Instead, she buries herself in work while keeping her other two sisters at a distance, point at faults as reasons to stay away.

As the middle sister, Jillian has become the peacemaker between her bossy and controlling older sister and Payton. When she’s confronted with a challenge that saps her of all her strength and energy, she no longer desires to step into that role. Why can’t, for once, her sisters care about what’s going on with her?

Beth K. Vogt’s foray into women’s fiction is poignant and powerful. This story is from first person POV for one character and third person from two of the others, but, in this case, it works well. There is growth in all three of these characters but also acceptance of some of the things they cannot change. And emotions run high throughout the pages. Yet, fans of Vogt’s romances won’t be disappointed, though, as there is both a thread of romance and a hint of a beginning of another in this one.

Johanna, Jillian, and Payton are complicated and real. I want to find out what’s up with Johanna. What’s made her the way she is—controlling, organized, type-A. I want to hang out with Payton some more and see how the decisions she made at the end of Things I Never Told You are working out of her. And I want to hang out with Jillian and her BFF some more. So I’m more than pleased to know this is just the first book in the Thatcher Sisters series!

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Camille Eide · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a well-told story of family relationships in all their flawed, layered, complex beauty. Loved it.

[Susan Snodgrass · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I don't think God, if there is a god, would listen to me."

I read Beth Vogt's first book a few years ago and knew I wanted to follow her. She was, and remains, a favorite. This go round, she has crafted a book that will both tear your heart out and make you glad. The book focuses on three sisters, the Thatcher girls: Johanna, Jillian and Payton. Payton had an identical twin, Pepper, who was killed in an accident ten years ago.

Payton has been troubled since Pepper's death and as the anniversary approaches, she is barely hanging on, seeing her sister in her dreams, feeling guilty about her death, not even living, actually. My heart broke for her pain because there is a LOT of pain in this woman's life. She pushes everyone away because she feels so guilty for remaining alive. Then there is Jillian, who has just received a devastating diagnosis and doesn't believe she deserves the love of a wonderful man who wants to marry her. And Johanna, the eldest, well, I truthfully didn't care for her a lot. She seems to want to control everyone else. But there is good in everyone.

Vogt has done her job so well that the reader becomes invested in each character's life and feels deeply their heartache. She lets us into the lives and hearts of these women as they deal with the death of their sibling ten years ago and how it has affected them so deeply even so many years later. This book is so emotion-packed and at times it is so hard to read because Payton is suffering so much.

Destined, in my opinion, to become a much read book and reread as well, Things I Never Told You belongs on the keeper shelf. Bravo!

*I received a preview copy of this book from the publisher. The opinion stated above is entirely my own.

[Katie Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness, this book is now one of my top 10 favorites!
I WON'T give any spoilers away in this review.
I am not the fastest of readers, but couldn't put this book down. I finished it inside of four days (reading when the kids were sleeping or I had a free chunk of time) and already want to read it again to catch things I missed first read-through. I'll have to wait though because my husband has snagged it and started reading it already!
I started this book knowing nothing about it other than it involves sisters. Being the oldest of three sisters (we also have an older brother above me), I was excited to read it. I told my husband on day three, "One of my favorite things about this book is that I feel like I'm getting to know a FAMILY. Instead of how most books have a hero/ine, secondary character and some friends in the storyline, Beth K Vogt did an incredible job with character development in this book!"
I rarely have had a book evoke emotional responses like this one did. I cried three separate times and the panic attack scenes were so real (I suffer from them personally) that I found myself holding my breath and having an increased heart rate as I read them.
I am so excited for the next Thatcher Sister's book!

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5. Wow, what a great book that tugged at the heart strings! The relationships between the sisters made this such a good read for me. The three different points of view, plus the dreams was well-written. I highly recommend this book!

[Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can't for the next book in this series.

[Toni Shiloh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first Beth Vogt novel and I was not disappointed. There's so much emotion in this book and so much the sisters are working through. Looking forward to book #2.

[Kelly Lyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I CAN NOT wait for the next book in the Thatcher Sisters series. I read this book in 4 days. It is a real page turner. It follows a family of 4 sisters but mainly focuses on two. One of the sisters is a twin, whose twin was killed in a snowmobile accident 10 years ago. She has lived with the guilt and a huge secret from her family all that time. One of her older sisters, has been diagnosed with breast cancer and has to have a mastectomy. The awful thing about the timing of the diagnosis and surgery is that it occurs during her engagement and wedding planning.

[Rissi · Rating 3 out of 5]

RATING: 3.5 out of 5

Ten years ago, Payton Thatcher’s world fell apart. Ten years later, Payton is guarding a secret no one but her knows. In those ten years, Payton’s life has moved forward, but emotionally, her world is on hold. This has placed a strain on the relationship she has with her sisters, Jillian and Johanna, and though she likes her work as co-owner of a party planning business, it falls short of the dreams she once had.

Now as the ten year anniversary of her twin sister’s death approaches, the nightmares and sorrow creep up again, and Payton falls apart. Again. No one understands or is able to reach Payton until a face from her past unexpectedly reenters her life…

To say this book is an emotional roller coaster would be an understatement. It’s that and then some. The story isn’t “easy” for readers nor would it have been each for its author to pen. Inside these pages reside a story of grief and pain – and the joy of rediscovering who you are and reconnecting with those who care about you.

Despite the informative synopsis, I didn’t realize the role “present” sorrow would play in this novel. I knew the grief from the past was going to be a layered story that would be emotional. Imagine my surprise when, early on in the novel, another blow is dealt to the Thatcher family. The POV switches from Jillian and Payton’s first-person narrative, which works well, but is also what makes the story so emotional in the “present.”

As her prior skill suggest, Beth weaves everything together with a deft and talented hand that leads straight to a conclusion that will deeply affect its reader. Though Things I Never Told You is a hard book for me to personally read (at this time), in no way does this hinder the realization this book is beautiful in a purposefully broken kind of way.

Sincere thanks to the publisher for providing a copy of this book; all opinions are my own.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lif'e's challenges are not supposed to paralyze you; they're supposed to help you discover who you are. (p 182)

But what happens if you're stuck in paralyzed mode and you don't know it? That's Payton, outwardly coping after the accidental death of her twin sister but she really isn't living. It's like she got stuck in time. And the things she's never told anyone are what's holding her back What an intensely moving story of loss and brokenness as a trio of sisters struggle to navigate their way towards a better future.

I hesitated a bit before picking this book out of my TBR pile. Mainly, I think, because it isn't my usual genre -- I mean, it's a well known fact that my romance loving heart loves, well, romance and this is a Women's Fiction selection. But I have loved Beth Vogt's contemporary romance novels so I threw caution to the wind and jumped genres and I am over-the-moon ecstatic over venturing out of my comfort zone! Because once I started reading Things I Never Told You I was hooked. This became the kind of 'savor and ponder' experience that touched me deeply...and more importantly, impacted my life in a profound way.

Three points of view -- Payton in first person, her sister Jillian and 'friend' Zach in third. (I put quotation marks around friend because he isn't in the beginning. Payton is quite hostile towards him.) Anyway, that unusual mash up of first person/ third person point of view actually works really well. Definitely made me feel like this is Payton's book even though Jillian has a compelling story to tell and gets her fair share of page time.

Zach is probably the most powerful secondary character I'v ever met in the pages of a book -- and the only Christian in Payton's sphere. The author uses him to bear a compelling witness to Payton when she questions him about his faith.

"Why do you believe in God, Zach?"

"... I realized that I needed God -- "

"Like a crutch --"

"No. Like the One who knows me best because He created me. The One who offers me more grace than I offer others...more grace than I offer myself. The One who forgave me of the things I still struggle to forgive myself for. That's why I believe in God, Payton." (p 385-6)

And, really, what more can I say, except that these characters and their stories will stay with you long after you close the book and file it away on your keeper shelf.

[Susan Tuttle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Women's fiction is not typically the first genre I gravitate towards, but I do enjoy it. Vogt's newest book, however, had me falling in love with the genre. The intricacies of family dynamics, the hard diagnosis of cancer, and the grief of loss all swirl together in this heart-tugging story. Each character pulled me into their lives. And I loved the pace of this family's story so far. There were no easy answers reached, yet there was believable forward progression of everyone involved. Even with the hard topics inside its pages, this story was full of hope. That's what I loved most, how even in some of our deepest hurts and painful moments, hope can still be found. Vogt does a masterful job of showing this throughout "Things I Never Told You", and I can't wait for the next book in this series.

***Thank you to the publisher for an ARC of this book. I was under no obligation or expectation to post a review. All views expressed are my own.***

[Andi Tubbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beth K. Vogt’s upcoming release The Things I Never Told You is reminiscent of Jodi Picoult. So, if you are a fan of Jodi Picoult then you will love this book!

I don’t have sisters except for the close friends I’ve chosen as sisters, however, I raised three girls and have seen the dynamics of sisters for thirty years. They can’t stand each other one minute, love each other the next, but bottom line they are each other’s best friend and secret keepers.
Ms. Vogt shows the true push and pull between sisters in her new book, along with how people and relationships are like individual pieces of a mirror alone yet when formed together make a beautiful colorful mandala like one you’d see in a kaleidoscope.
Each of the sisters are complex, dealing with real life situations that could happen to anyone of us. The supporting cast of characters complete the family dynamic. The story moves along at a nice pace revealing bits and pieces of the plot that keeps you guessing until the last page.

My Bottom Line:
This book is about relationships, tragedy, pain, and forgiveness not only of others but of self. The story just grabbed me from the beginning and I became completely immersed into the lives and stories of the characters. There were moments that made me think, want to throw the book against the wall, cry, and yes laugh. Things I Never Told You has everything that makes women’s fiction readable and relatable.
Highly recommended!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good story and I loved how it had many different perspectives while still focusing mostly on Payton and Jillian. Payton is still deeply affected by the loss of her twin sister and has never really dealt with it. Jillian is recently engaged, but then gets unexpected news that she has to find a way to deal with. I'd really like to know more about Johanna's life, she seems to have a lot of issues and I'd like to know why. All in all, this was a good book and I plan to continue with the series.

[Nora St Laurent · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was quickly drawn in from the first sentence, “The what-ifs taunted me every time I visited my parents, but any hope of beginning again had vanished years ago – if there’d ever been one.”

Loss, family secrets, shame, blame and unforgiveness plagued this family. Payton Thatcher blames herself for the accident that killed her sister; other family members blame themselves for other events leading up to that fateful day.

Payton’s sister Jillian has finally picked the day for her engagement party. She’s excited and felt guilty about that and making wedding plans. Thoughts of Payton’s twin Pepper hit Jillian and her entire family hard as the engagement party nears. Combine that with the school doing a ten-year anniversary remembrance service where they want Payton to speak.

This family has been on auto pilot for ten years. No one wants to face their feelings and how they have dictated their lives. Another family crisis arises putting a cloud over this family again. This event forces them to look at how they dealt with the last crisis and how much time this family has left. Would they finally talk about the elephant in the room? Start “living” as a family again?

Beth drops readers into the mix of a dysfunctional family who has let resentment and unforgiveness tear them apart. I felt their pain through the rich characterization as this author shows the complex relationship of sisters, the highs and the lows. I loved and was encouraged by the way she naturally brought in the faith message through a non-believing character. She shows that Christians aren’t perfect. They can live transparent honest lives revealing their brokenness, seeking answers to questions from the bible. Giving them hope and a way to peace. This book would be good for your book club to read. It includes discussion questions.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale Publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com

[Mikayla · Rating 3 out of 5]

First off, I got to buddy read this with Kate Willis, which was just about the coolest.

I don't really know what to say about this book. It made me laugh, and cry, and want to hug my family tight. It made me want to yell at the characters, hug them, and cheer for them. It made me rethink how I'm handling relationships and want to do the best I possibly could with the time I have.
Payton and her sisters were all vivid characters, done so well that I loved them despite their flaws which were pretty big. The more I learned about each one, the more I understood them and could see people I knew (or myself) in each one.
Payton's confusion was so understandable, and her not knowing how to get onto good terms with her family. The scene at her speech though. O.o
I loved Zach and his patient persistence. He was such a gentleman!! <3 And I loved how he handled her in that last scene at his cabin!
Though for how vivid all the other characters were, Payton's parents were... flat. So flat. Like cardboard cutout's, her dad wearing a football shirt, and her mom with a cookbook. ;D
The only things I really didn't like was Jillian sleeping next to Geoff. Even if they were both clothed, it made me uncomfortable. Also, the mention's of Payton's relationship with her boyfriend wanting to move in got a little uncomfortable as well. Though it did make sense since neither of them was Christians. I felt like in the end, Payton didn't really come to trust in God, her life just worked out on its own. She was interested in God but didn't need him. That really bothered me. The ending of Jillian's story was not my favorite. Though it made sense for the characters.
Overall, this book was very thought-provoking and made me want to put more effort into relationships. It also made me want to play volleyball. And go back to Garden of the Gods. And get a wooden box. ;)

Thank you again to Kate for reading this with me, and making the experience so much more fun!