The Secret Husband

The O'Connells #3

by Lorhainne Eckhart

Small-town lawyer Karen O’Connell believes that all of her clients who have found themselves recklessly embroiled in scandal and trouble have done so foolishly because of love. She has heard far too many times that the heart wants what it wants.

But one night, Karen receives a call from Jack Curtis, her vengeful ex-husband, whom she’s never told anyone in her family about. He’s found himself in a world of trouble, arrested and in jail, charged with murder.

He says he’s innocent, and he needs her help.

Her first response is to say no, but Karen knows Jack isn’t the kind of guy to ask for help from anyone, especially not from the ex-wife he openly despises and hasn’t seen in years. She knows there must be more to the story—but what she doesn’t know is that the mysterious circumstances surrounding the murder could be the reason their hasty marriage ended so badly.

Genres: Romance, Romantic Suspense, Suspense

165 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 31, 2020

About the author

"Lorhainne Eckhart is one of my go to authors when I want a guaranteed good book. So many twists and turns, but also so much love and such a strong sense of family."
 (Lora W. Reviewer)

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New York Times & USA Today bestseller Lorhainne Eckhart writes Raw Relatable Real Romance is best known for her big family romances series, where “Morals and family are running themes. Danger, romance, and a drive to do what is right will see you glued to the page.” As one fan calls her, she is the “Queen of the family saga.” (aherman) writing “the ups and downs of what goes on within a family but also with some suspense, angst and of course a bit of romance thrown in for good measure.” Follow Lorhainne on Bookbub to receive alerts on New Releases and Sales and join her mailing list at LorhainneEckhart.com for her Monday Blog, books news, giveaways and FREE reads. With over 120 books, audiobooks, and multiple series published and available at all retailers now translated into six languages. She is a multiple recipient of the Readers’ Favorite Award for Suspense and Romance, and lives in the Pacific Northwest on an island, is the mother of three, her oldest has autism and she is an advocate for never giving up on your dreams.

Reviews

[Romance Recs · Rating 2 out of 5]

The Secret Husband by Lorhainne Eckhart is the 3rd book in the The O'Connells Series, however is a stand-alone novel.

Smalltown lawyer, Karen O’Connell is enjoying her evening at work when she gets an unexpected call. It turns out, her ex husband needs her help getting him out of prison.

This book was honestly disappointing to me. Even more so because I paid for this book. I was craving a second chance romance between ex-spouses. I searched and upon reading the blurb, this book sounded so promising. I dove in headfirst and was sorely disappointed that it didn’t turn out as I was hoping.

The plot and backstory of the hero is loosely put together. It didn’t seem realistic or even explained enough to be a part of the plot in my opinion. Because the book is a short length, I feel that the focus should have been placed more upon the relationship and building emotions.

I also felt as though it didn’t flow well as far as how they ended up together and the timeline.

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 4 out of 5]

We are back in Livingston, Montana with the O’Connell siblings. A tight knit clan whose life change at an early age when their father passed away.
This time the story belongs to Karen, the dedicated lawyer who mourns not only those she couldn’t safe but also the secret she’s kept for years.
That is until a phone call from a man of her past, her husband, comes in. He’s accused of murder and wants her help.
Her oldest brother Owen, is present during the call, thus causing her life to implode as she’s forced to deal not only with Jack, but also with her family now that they know her secret.
The plot is engaging. The reader is kept on their toes as to who had committed murder, and why someone planted evidence against Jack. Also the interaction and the why Jack left Karen.
This is a story where the lines of the right and wrong, or the black and white of life is blurry. A reminder that life is messy and the future is an unknown. Much like what life awaits Jack and Karen.
Another thought provoking story by this talented author.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Anne Blyth · Rating 3 out of 5]

While I have enjoyed the previous two books in this series I confess I was a bit put off by the complexity of the husbands family problems and the average resolution at the end of this book. I'm not sure if it's meant to return in a future book, but I am not really inspired by the possibility.

[JigsawGirl · Rating 2 out of 5]

I listened to the audiobook. I thought the narration was good, but the story was lacking.

I thought it was a bit ridiculous that this MAJOR thing happened in Karen's life where her family seems to be pretty well known and NO ONE knew about it. Her brother Marcus didn't happen to come across anything in 8 years?

I thought it was weird that Jack who she hadn't seen or heard from in 8 years, did his best Jekyll and Hyde imitation, threw all of this conspiracy conversation at Karen, was arrested, etc., etc., yet, she drove off with this man by herself. Then to go through all of the other strange and secretive things that occurred with little to no push back. The fact that she would just take him at his word was off putting.

The ending was not a cliffhanger, but it absolutely felt unfinished. I didn't get any sense of connection or chemistry between Jack and Karen. He came across as dishonest, controlling, and untrustworthy. Karen came across as a weak, wimpy, potential alcoholic. His family was creepy. Her family was pushy.

I just couldn't see anything about this book that made me feel good, or lighter, or happy. There was nothing sweet, sexy, endearing, or anything else going on. This book felt very dark to me.

Interestingly enough, I can honestly say the only thing I liked about this book was when the two nieces were together. I take that back. I also liked that it was short.

[Helen Lewis · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this story but feel that so much I information was missing and things happened so quickly. Karen had not see her husband for eight years prior to his calling her on a Friday night asking for help. She saw Jack in Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday for a few hours each day. All of a sudden they are back together without much I information sharing. Jack's attitude now changed from a man practically begging for her help, to a man in charge expecting her to bend to his plans. Suddenly they are back in Karen's hometown talking about Jack selling his practice and going into partnership with Kare. The structure of the story line is uneven and just doesn't make sense, who would make all these life changing decisions in less then five days which could really be counted in hours? Who were "they" the shadow people? That being said, the story line was interesting enough that I continued to read, it just was missing so much.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Years ago Karen gave her heart to a man and she has kept the details of her very quick marriage secret. She has moved forward with her life and is a lawyer who thrives on helping those who need it the most. The last thing she expected was a call from her ex needing her help when he was arrested.

Jack had his reasons for leaving Karen and it wasn’t because he didn’t love her. When she finds out the truth behind the demise of their marriage will this be their second chance or will the reasons that drove them apart keep them apart?

Karen’s siblings are there for her whether she wants it or not as she tries to work through the past to see if she and Jack have a future together. The deep and strong tone of the male narrator and the feisty tone of the female narrator was exactly how I pictured the characters. 🎧 Audiobook Obsession

[Nicole Dunton · Rating 2 out of 5]

I want to start this by saying that I'm not happy to be giving a book a two-star rating. My philosophy is that if it deserves lower than a three then I didn't finish the book. If I didn't finish the book, I shouldn't review it. It's just unfair. However, I did finish this book, and I'm very disappointed. There were so many questions left unanswered. It was just really disappointing overall. It also seems to promote controlling and dominating relationships. That's just my opinion though. This isn't one of the best books in this series. At all.

[Bea · Rating 1 out of 5]

I’m Done With This Series

This is book #3; I finished the book and I’m done with this series. The long, drawn-out explanations and drama are just exhausting and I won’t read anymore of this series. I don’t enjoy the characters and I don’t like the plot.

Also, the books are not cliffhangers, but they don’t really conclude either. The stories are never quite done. They’re designed to entice you to buy the next book in the series, but it doesn’t matter; I’m done.

[Tani Garberg · Rating 1 out of 5]

Why would you want to save someone who treated you badly and then profess absolute love? Dumb.

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Secret Husband
The O'Connells, Book 3
By: Lorhainne Eckhart
Narrated by: Shiann Tilly & Eric Umstott

Karen is a lawyer. You know the kind, the one that will fight for those that cannot help themselves. She is happy in her job and never questioned her decision to work in her hometown near her family. Now, a phone call from the past has her thinking about things she thought were put to rest. Her one mistake she never told anyone about, Jack Curtis is looking for help with a murder case. Will she find it in her heart to help him? Can she forgive the ultimate betrayal? And what will her family think? I love the O'Connels! This tight knit family is one I would love to visit. All in each other's business, this story had me smiling each time Owen forced Karen's cards. The family rallies around her, and gives her the support in whatever she decides. Jack proves to be quite the character, and though it's hard to resist his charms, there is a lot more to this man than we get in this story. I can't wait to hear more about these two!

Shiann Tilly and Eric Umstott narrate this story in duet and their chemistry just works! The banter off each other and the building frustration and passion comes through in spades. I enjoyed these two and hope to hear more from them.

[Serenechaosnyc · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another entry into the O’Connell’s saga and similar to the others, it is short but chock full of stuff happening. I mean, so much happened- Jack called Karen for help, they needed to figure out what happened but also resolve their relationship. In between that, we continue to enjoy the interactions between the members of this family. I have to admit that I was a little confused some times, a bit of whiplash with how Jack treated Karen and a bit of disconnect with the flow of the story. It could be just because it was a short story? But overall, it was interesting so I give it 3.5 stars.

I listened to the audiobook with Shiann Tilly and Eric Umstott and they were great. I love duet style recordings and they genuinely seemed like they were having fun.

🎧AudiobookObsession, the flock

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

As usual, Ms. Eckhart draws us in quickly and takes us for a wild ride. This is Karen's story and it is quite a story. One that I hope is not over. Karen is a lawyer who got married secretly years ago and never told her family. Now, her husband is back and charged with murder. Can Karen help him? Should she? Her secret is out and her family all have questions and advice. Who is Jack and more importantly, who is his family? This is one that leaves you scratching your head and wondering what in the hell is going on!! I guess we have to trust that Ms. Eckhart will continue with their story later and answer our questions too.
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Tasha Mahoney · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Secret Husband is a part of the O'Connells series and I have enjoyed every book that I have listened to so far.
While I enjoyed The Secret Husband, I don't like the man at the centre of the story, Jack and I really hoped that he would grow on me. He didn't, but maybe he will with as the series progresses.

I like Karen O'Connell, I have liked the whole family so much. Karen is a lawyer, she has other peoples best interest to heart and takes it hard when a injustice occurs.
I am interested to know more about their journey.

The narration was at the extremely high level and drew me into the story with their great character representation and strong acting.
Audiobook Obsession and The Flock.

[Garth Mailman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Secret societies. We’ve read about Shock Doctrine and Dark Money. About spy agencies and the clandestine ABC Agencies that Snowden revealed. Black Ops and the men who work in special forces and don’t talk about it. Watched The Firm and The Skulls. Heard whispers about a pope murdered in the Vatican. It’s these kinds of secret clubs that form the basis of this novel. Groups that wield the kind of power La Cosa Nostra and Biker Gangs only aspire to. Terrorist organizations may be criminal but these people are above the law. Such an organization ran a pedophile ring in Cornwall and have ensured that the subject disappeared from media radar. There are certain things one is best not knowing.

This book ended with much unresolved and unexplained.

[Catlou · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a real intriguing tale, filled with unexpected and surprising twists. Karen’s secret past comes back in the most unusual way when her ex-husband calls for help in front of her big brother Owen. Now the cat’s really out of the bag, but that’s not all. There’s more to this story, and the secrets get more astonishing. I can’t say anything more because I don’t want to give anything away. It’s definitely one that will grab your attention and keep you enthralled from start to finish. I know it’s not what I expected, but it sure kept me reading from beginning to end. An engaging addition to this wonderful series!

[Margaret Yelton · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Secret Husband is the 3rd book in The O'Connells Series, although I hadn't read the first two books in the series this book can certainly be read as a stand alone. As with previous books by this author I found it to be very well written, it was able to pull me in and keep my interest throughout the book. There are unexpected and surprising twists, and I would have wished for a little clearer ending but hopefully their storyline will be revisited in some of the later books. Overall this was a enjoyable read and I would recommend it to others. I received an Advanced Readers Copy from the author, and this is my fair and honest review.

[Trisha c · Rating 4 out of 5]

Karen O'Connell and Jack Curtis were married while in college on a whim. He left her after 3 days. Why? She was devastated. Years later, he called her out of the blue. He was in jail and needed her help. Of all the lawyers he could have chosen, why her? She said she hated him, but she was still in love with him. He told her he left, to keep her safe. From what? From whom?
This story is intriguing , and had me wondering what exactly was Jack's secret? Karen always knew, whatever happens, she always has the love and support of her family.
The narrators were very good and showed all the emotions in this story.
🎧audiobookObsession reviewer🎧

[ButtonsMom2003 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook Review:
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 5

Great duet narration!

This is another duet narration even though Audible doesn’t show both voice actors. For some reason Eric Umstott isn’t credited on Audible or Amazon but during the opening credits his name is give along with Shiann Tilly.

I love stories about secrets and this was a good one. The O’Connell family is full of strong men and women and I loved reading more about Karen. I think we’ll probably be hearing more from her and Jack.

A complimentary copy of this audiobook was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author and/or narrator.

[Bev · Rating 5 out of 5]

Karen has her law practice which is going well. But one Friday night, her pity party night, she gets a phone call. Surprise! It is from her ex-husband. But none of her family know that she was married at all. Jack needs her help as he is in jail accused of murder. Coincidentally, her brother is with her when she gets the call. He insists that she tell her family about her past but she is very reluctant to do so. A secret marriage. Big, big trouble. Very handsome Jack. A very nosy family. What a terrific story.

[Karen L Ledee · Rating 5 out of 5]

All is not how it appears. Things are going on behind the scenes. Money and power make things happen in a manipulated fashion. Jack has an unusual family that he is trying to keep in the background, but he has not had much success. Karen’s large family has them watching each other’s back since daddy just left. What is jack going to do to appease everyone? Well written and very suspenseful. Lorhainne has woven another intriguing story!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book

[Robin Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the previous books, Karen has seemed to be the least likely of the O’Connells to have a secret lasting many years. She was married and her husband left her in a very cruel manner after only two days, never to be heard from again. As Karen was having her usual Friday night pity party at her office, she hears from Jack out of the blue. Apparently, he has been arrested for murder and he feels that she is the only one who can help him. I don’t want to give anything away, but this is a fascinating read. Although third in the series, it can be read as a stand-alone.

[Suzie · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Secret Husband

I found this story to be disturbing. It's a story of Karen who is one of the sisters and also a lawyer. Karen secretly married her college sweetheart, Jack. I found a correlation of what's currently happening in Washington where a mobster group controlled all business big and small. In this story Jack is born into a Mafia type family and counted by then to do "the right thing.". I had a hard time giving this story 4 stars Still leaning toward 3 Men put in charge of companies that they aren't qualified to run. You be the judge I can't recommend.

[Reading Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

So far, I really have enjoyed reading 'The O'Connell 's Series '. This book is Karen and Jack's story and starts out with life secrets and a murder. It is a a new twist on 'The Good Ole Boy Club' and the concept of secret societies running our country. There is a lot of intrigue in this story and kept my interest until the very end. I am hoping that Karen and Jack get another book where we can revisit them in about five years into the future. I received an ARC in return for an honest review.

[Jocelyne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the Cover! This is the third novella in The O’Connell’s Series. I love this Series! I recommend to listen to this series in order. Karen and Jack’s story is breathtaking. I loved to follow them in their second chance to love. The entire series is filled with intrigue, secrets, and twists and turns. I love The O’Connell family, and their strong bonds. Shiann Tilly did a great job with the narration. I highly recommend this series. #AudiobookObsession

[Kristin · Rating 2 out of 5]

So I got the first 3 O’Connell books as a package which is why I read them all, but I’m done. The stories build and the characters are all related which I really liked, but character development isn’t deep enough for me and I definitely didn’t like the submissive way the woman in book 3 decided to interact with the man. The people and stories are too far-fetched and un-relatable for me, but might be enjoyable for others which is why I rated 2’s instead of 1’s.

[Ashley Hedden · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Secret Husband (The O'Connells #3) was a great read by Lorhainne Eckhart. Karen O’Connell is a small town lawyer who receives a call from Jack Curtis, her vengeful ex-husband that she never told her family about. He has been arrested and in jail for murder. He claims to be innocent and needs her help. She knows that there has to be more to the story and decides to help him. I enjoyed reading this book and cant wait to read more by the author.

[Tracey Tranter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a real intriguing tale, filled with unexpected and surprising twists.

There are many twists and turns in this story, and the secrets get more astonishing.

It’s definitely a story that will grab your attention and keep you enthralled from start to finish.

An engaging addition to this wonderful series!

I received an author’s copy and have left an honest review

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great story in the series

Karen is a strong, independent and blogger woman lawyer. How could she not tell her family that she was married. Jack just calls out of the blue. He turns her love upside down. I didn't like one thing. Karen's brain became mush with one kiss from Jack. I would have liked her to stand her ground better.

[Cindy B. · Rating 3 out of 5]

3-1/2 stars — started off very interesting and continued until plot and characters had me thoroughly engaged and then stopped in what was either a lead-in to the next episode or a cliffhanger. Still unsatisfied and saddened at the let down. Narrator was excellent and should be used for better novels. .

[Linda Zelinsky · Rating 4 out of 5]

This started off as what would be a great suspense, romantic story but I found it to be too short. Also it seemed to end abruptly. I enjoyed it and was really hooked but became disappointed when it ended.