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The Secret Letters
CAN SECRETS REMAIN HIDDEN FOREVER?'Brilliantly written! An irresistible combination of romance, drama and suspense. I couldn't put it down.' 'Powerful and well written!''Sweet, uplifting and suspenseful with a complex resolve' - KT Book ReviewsRACHEL, saved from an attack twelve years before by a faceless stranger, never got to thank him, never knew his name.Despite the devastation she chose to rise above it to help others from their pain by becoming a psychologist....Her only issue now is that she's an expert at fixing everyone else's problems, and blind to her own.After a long relationship with her boyfriend WILL starts to go south, she turns to her best friend AMELIA for guidance.Suddenly her world is turned upside down when tragedy strikes and she's left with no one to comfort her but Will's rude older brother RUARI.Paralyzed by fear, she struggles to take grip of her life, until the day when anonymous letters begin to appear from the stranger who saved her twelve years before.
241 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 9, 2020
7 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
Taryn Leigh
2 books115 followersTaryn Leigh is a wife, mother, businesswoman, and a renowned author who has earned her place as a member of the Romance Writers Organisation of South Africa. Her books journey the realms of romance, mystery and adventure. Exploring the deeper levels of fact, she has created a fascinating new context to fiction.
Taryn Leigh loves to hear from readers and is known for responding.
She can be contacted in the following ways:
Twitter @tarynleighbook
Instagram @tarynleighbooks
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taryn.leigh.585
She also has a Facebook fans page that you can join for sneak peaks, giveaways and more.
Taryn Leigh loves to hear from readers and is known for responding.
She can be contacted in the following ways:
Twitter @tarynleighbook
Instagram @tarynleighbooks
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taryn.leigh.585
She also has a Facebook fans page that you can join for sneak peaks, giveaways and more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
June 12, 2022
I read this book twice in as many months. The first time I hurtled through the story, wanting to turn the page before I’d finished it. So engrossed with what was next, the composition was that good. Pleased with myself for finishing in record time, I started the review.
A week later I hadn’t completed it. My brain was still digesting the story and wasn’t ready to sum up. I woke 3am one morning last week deciding to reread The Secret Letters once more but this time to savour the writing. It didn’t disappoint. I cherished every sentence, the elemental message, and the nuance of a skilled author.
I have one regret and that is I have read no book twice and what a shame that is. My mission is to return to my favourites and start over. Thank you for opening my eyes and mind. I am genre free.
A week later I hadn’t completed it. My brain was still digesting the story and wasn’t ready to sum up. I woke 3am one morning last week deciding to reread The Secret Letters once more but this time to savour the writing. It didn’t disappoint. I cherished every sentence, the elemental message, and the nuance of a skilled author.
I have one regret and that is I have read no book twice and what a shame that is. My mission is to return to my favourites and start over. Thank you for opening my eyes and mind. I am genre free.
August 7, 2020
Sweet, uplifting, and suspenseful with a complex resolve is the best way I can describe The Secret Letter by Taryn Leigh. The way she conveyed a tough subject with a powerful yet reserved levity shows it's possible to come through the other side of trauma to find love, that's not only healing but within the characters' own time. Plus the added mystery?!? Fantastic!
Powerful and well written!
~Tanja
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Powerful and well written!
~Tanja
Follow me on
Instagram✿Twitter✿Facebook✿Pinterest✿
July 19, 2021
Rachel, who was once saved from an almost rape by a stranger, determined to help others become a psychologist. She has a somewhat normal life now, caring parents, a best friend, and Will her boyfriend for 11 years.
One day her world comes falling when she is attacked again and find herself in the same place which she was years ago but this time there was no one to help her out but Wills rude brother whom she disliked. But right then she again starts receiving the letters from an anonymous writer who helped her out before.
Who is the writer?
Why does he help her every time?
Does she ever find out?
My opinion: I liked the book, it was fast-paced, the plot was top-notch, and the twist I saw it coming though but was still surprised when revealed, characters are relatable not like someone from another world but like us who have their struggle to fight, they suffer but they still keep going. The best thing about this book was that how beautifully the author has shown the struggle a person has to go through after an assault not just physically but emotionally and mentally like the scar which never leave.
I would recommend this book to everyone who loves thrillers and need the motivation to overcome their fears.
One day her world comes falling when she is attacked again and find herself in the same place which she was years ago but this time there was no one to help her out but Wills rude brother whom she disliked. But right then she again starts receiving the letters from an anonymous writer who helped her out before.
Who is the writer?
Why does he help her every time?
Does she ever find out?
My opinion: I liked the book, it was fast-paced, the plot was top-notch, and the twist I saw it coming though but was still surprised when revealed, characters are relatable not like someone from another world but like us who have their struggle to fight, they suffer but they still keep going. The best thing about this book was that how beautifully the author has shown the struggle a person has to go through after an assault not just physically but emotionally and mentally like the scar which never leave.
I would recommend this book to everyone who loves thrillers and need the motivation to overcome their fears.
August 12, 2020
Plot
I don't know where to begin with this fantastic romance books with a hint of mystery. Which also has a very strong theme throughout.
This was an utterly bloody extraordinary novel which I absolutely LOVED. Once I started I couldn't stop I finished this within a night. A story about friendship, resilience and betrayal but is also sweet, inspirational and emotional. I love everything about this novel.
Characters
There were many powerful and outstanding characters in this book and my all-time favourite has to be Mr.Lemon and I will definitely be taking some of his recipes. I love the way Mr.Lemon's lifestyle including his diet and the yummy scrumptious food he cooks throughout. And his sweet personality wins the race.
Rachel, the main character is a tremendous character who is complex and complicated. She is also a loving, selfless and kind person. She is a psychologist and in a long term relationship with Will. Unfortunately, she ends up being attacked in her home from the same person who attacker her in her teenager years. She finds herself totally alone battling and fighting against the attack in her home. Her boyfriend Will and her best friend Amelia is nowhere to be seen. But she does have one person trying to help her, Will's brother Rauri who Rachel thought hated her as he never spoke to her etc.
Writing/Pacing
The writing is this book is absolutely top-notch. It's incredibly well written and oh so influential and robust. The pacing was just perfect throughout. I can't explain how wonderful Leigh's writing is. Although it was a difficult subject to write about, it was also funny and full of inspirational sayings and quotes throughout.
Theme/Setting
There are some very strong themes throughout this book including rape etc and the way in which the author approached this very strong and taboo subject was awe-inspiring, sensitively and powerfully told/written. It takes a hell of a lot to write so beautifully about such harrowing and heartbreaking subjects. So I take my hat to this author for one touching the subjects within the book and how she portrayed them.
This is set in South Africa and the author really sets the scene and brings the setting of the pages.
Cover
This cover is bloody absolutely stunning, to say the least.
Overall thoughts
'This was an utterly bloody extraordinary novel which I absolutely LOVED. Once I started I couldn't stop I finished this within a night. A story about friendship, resilience and betrayal but is also sweet, inspirational and emotional. A fantastic romance book with a hint of mystery. I loved everything about this novel.
The author approached this very strong and taboo theme in an awe-inspiring, sensitively and powerfully way. The writing is this book is absolutely top-notch. It's incredibly well written and oh so influential and robust. The pacing was just perfect throughout.There were many powerful and outstanding characters in this book.'
To visit my review on my blog, click here... https://wp.me/paMTST-lt
I don't know where to begin with this fantastic romance books with a hint of mystery. Which also has a very strong theme throughout.
This was an utterly bloody extraordinary novel which I absolutely LOVED. Once I started I couldn't stop I finished this within a night. A story about friendship, resilience and betrayal but is also sweet, inspirational and emotional. I love everything about this novel.
Characters
There were many powerful and outstanding characters in this book and my all-time favourite has to be Mr.Lemon and I will definitely be taking some of his recipes. I love the way Mr.Lemon's lifestyle including his diet and the yummy scrumptious food he cooks throughout. And his sweet personality wins the race.
Rachel, the main character is a tremendous character who is complex and complicated. She is also a loving, selfless and kind person. She is a psychologist and in a long term relationship with Will. Unfortunately, she ends up being attacked in her home from the same person who attacker her in her teenager years. She finds herself totally alone battling and fighting against the attack in her home. Her boyfriend Will and her best friend Amelia is nowhere to be seen. But she does have one person trying to help her, Will's brother Rauri who Rachel thought hated her as he never spoke to her etc.
Writing/Pacing
The writing is this book is absolutely top-notch. It's incredibly well written and oh so influential and robust. The pacing was just perfect throughout. I can't explain how wonderful Leigh's writing is. Although it was a difficult subject to write about, it was also funny and full of inspirational sayings and quotes throughout.
Theme/Setting
There are some very strong themes throughout this book including rape etc and the way in which the author approached this very strong and taboo subject was awe-inspiring, sensitively and powerfully told/written. It takes a hell of a lot to write so beautifully about such harrowing and heartbreaking subjects. So I take my hat to this author for one touching the subjects within the book and how she portrayed them.
This is set in South Africa and the author really sets the scene and brings the setting of the pages.
Cover
This cover is bloody absolutely stunning, to say the least.
Overall thoughts
'This was an utterly bloody extraordinary novel which I absolutely LOVED. Once I started I couldn't stop I finished this within a night. A story about friendship, resilience and betrayal but is also sweet, inspirational and emotional. A fantastic romance book with a hint of mystery. I loved everything about this novel.
The author approached this very strong and taboo theme in an awe-inspiring, sensitively and powerfully way. The writing is this book is absolutely top-notch. It's incredibly well written and oh so influential and robust. The pacing was just perfect throughout.There were many powerful and outstanding characters in this book.'
To visit my review on my blog, click here... https://wp.me/paMTST-lt
August 13, 2020
All my reviews can be found at: http://jessicasreadingroom.com
~~~~
This review appeared on my site on August 12, 2020 as a part of the blog tour.
~~~~
The Secret Letters This is one that covers a lot of themes: romance, various relationships, trauma and survival, unfaithfulness, with a little bit of mystery thrown in. It is also a fictional tale based on a real life attack.
Twelve years ago Rachel was attacked and then saved by an unknown person. In the aftermath she begins to receive letters from her ‘hero’ to try to help her to come to grips with what happened and help her heal. He never makes himself known to her and eventually the letters stop.
Since surviving the attack, twelve years has passed and Rachel has become a psychiatrist and truly wants to help others face their issues. She has a boyfriend of 11 years and lately things have become stagnant. She also meets an older gentleman she wants to help named Mr. Lemon. His story is just as important as Rachel’s and takes shape in the novel as well. There was just something about the two of them that resonated with me. I adored him and need a Mr. Lemon in my life!
Then tragedy happens to Rachel a second time and her life is turned upside down again for a variety of reasons…. Then the letters start coming again.
This is a novel that covers so much emotion and you cannot help but become fully invested in the story. I did figure out who the mystery letter writer was at relatively early on, but that did not take away the enjoyment of the novel. I just sat back and enjoyed the story and waited to see how Rachel would react to everything.
The story is based out of South Africa where Leigh is from and she is very descriptive in her writing; she makes you feel like you actually are in South Africa: I would love to see a zebra in the ‘real world’ living its life like a deer does here in Georgia!
This is a powerful read that deals with very heavy subjects that are difficult to handle, but also about overcoming those tragedies. Add a little bit of mystery and a sweet and possible developing romance and you just about have everything covered!
This is one I definitely recommend.
~~~~
This review appeared on my site on August 12, 2020 as a part of the blog tour.
~~~~
The Secret Letters This is one that covers a lot of themes: romance, various relationships, trauma and survival, unfaithfulness, with a little bit of mystery thrown in. It is also a fictional tale based on a real life attack.
Twelve years ago Rachel was attacked and then saved by an unknown person. In the aftermath she begins to receive letters from her ‘hero’ to try to help her to come to grips with what happened and help her heal. He never makes himself known to her and eventually the letters stop.
Since surviving the attack, twelve years has passed and Rachel has become a psychiatrist and truly wants to help others face their issues. She has a boyfriend of 11 years and lately things have become stagnant. She also meets an older gentleman she wants to help named Mr. Lemon. His story is just as important as Rachel’s and takes shape in the novel as well. There was just something about the two of them that resonated with me. I adored him and need a Mr. Lemon in my life!
Then tragedy happens to Rachel a second time and her life is turned upside down again for a variety of reasons…. Then the letters start coming again.
This is a novel that covers so much emotion and you cannot help but become fully invested in the story. I did figure out who the mystery letter writer was at relatively early on, but that did not take away the enjoyment of the novel. I just sat back and enjoyed the story and waited to see how Rachel would react to everything.
The story is based out of South Africa where Leigh is from and she is very descriptive in her writing; she makes you feel like you actually are in South Africa: I would love to see a zebra in the ‘real world’ living its life like a deer does here in Georgia!
This is a powerful read that deals with very heavy subjects that are difficult to handle, but also about overcoming those tragedies. Add a little bit of mystery and a sweet and possible developing romance and you just about have everything covered!
This is one I definitely recommend.
July 22, 2020
I am not the biggest fan of romance books I must admit, but when I read the synopsis for this book I was very intrigued. It didn’t sound at all like your usual romantic, heart fluttery read and I was right. It has so much depth to it and some strong subjects such as attempted rape and unfaithfulness. The author tackles these so delicately and poignantly.
Alongside this powerful plot line there are so many heart-warming events and characters throughout the book. Its main theme is the importance of friendship and how much you need people to help you get back on track when life gets tough. Mr Lemon was such a great addition to the story and I loved the wonderful friendship between him and Rachel. I found myself smiling at the dialogue between those two it was that uplifting at times. The subplot involving him and his son fitted in perfectly around the rest of the story.
I loved learning more about South Africa where the story is based. I have always enjoyed finding out about different destinations so whilst reading this I was also googling on my phone to learn about the local areas and dishes such as biltong and boerewors. The author however describes the sights and sounds brilliantly too so that I could picture it all clearly in my mind. I wished I was there to experience it all!
I managed to read this book in two days as I was completely captivated from the very start and it is not too complex making it a nice, easy read. There was enough suspense to keep your attention even though I had worked out who was sending the letters and a few other things that happened in the story. This didn’t ruin the plot for me in anyway, in fact it made me more invested in the story and its characters.
Overall this was a very emotional, suspenseful story that I do recommend to readers who love a romance with a bit of mystery thrown in.
Alongside this powerful plot line there are so many heart-warming events and characters throughout the book. Its main theme is the importance of friendship and how much you need people to help you get back on track when life gets tough. Mr Lemon was such a great addition to the story and I loved the wonderful friendship between him and Rachel. I found myself smiling at the dialogue between those two it was that uplifting at times. The subplot involving him and his son fitted in perfectly around the rest of the story.
I loved learning more about South Africa where the story is based. I have always enjoyed finding out about different destinations so whilst reading this I was also googling on my phone to learn about the local areas and dishes such as biltong and boerewors. The author however describes the sights and sounds brilliantly too so that I could picture it all clearly in my mind. I wished I was there to experience it all!
I managed to read this book in two days as I was completely captivated from the very start and it is not too complex making it a nice, easy read. There was enough suspense to keep your attention even though I had worked out who was sending the letters and a few other things that happened in the story. This didn’t ruin the plot for me in anyway, in fact it made me more invested in the story and its characters.
Overall this was a very emotional, suspenseful story that I do recommend to readers who love a romance with a bit of mystery thrown in.
August 17, 2020
Such an amazing book that was an emotional rollercoaster. You are instantly drawn into the dramatic story, the characters are so well written and the detailed descriptions of places makes it easy to get utterly entranced and unable to put the book down!
This gorgeous book has it all, suspense and mystery, alongside positivity and uplifting friendships.
Rachel is an incredibly inspirational woman, and you just wanted everything to be ok for her. I loved how the letters brought her back and gave her the strength to move on. You wanted her to feel loved and cared for, as it was obvious that she had a big heart and wanted to care for those around her.
I loved the quote from Nelson Mandela, “As I walked out the door toward the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didn't leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I'd still be in prison.” It was a perfect analogy to what Rachel had to do, and it fitted so perfectly into the story.
Definitely one of my favourite books that I have read this year!
This gorgeous book has it all, suspense and mystery, alongside positivity and uplifting friendships.
Rachel is an incredibly inspirational woman, and you just wanted everything to be ok for her. I loved how the letters brought her back and gave her the strength to move on. You wanted her to feel loved and cared for, as it was obvious that she had a big heart and wanted to care for those around her.
I loved the quote from Nelson Mandela, “As I walked out the door toward the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didn't leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I'd still be in prison.” It was a perfect analogy to what Rachel had to do, and it fitted so perfectly into the story.
Definitely one of my favourite books that I have read this year!
September 5, 2020
Mostly a love story albeit disguised heavily in places with mystery and deeply embedded trauma.
thoroughly likeable characters and sensitively written giving enough weight to the trauma suffered by Rachel and the struggles she has to recover and carry on with her life.
I absolutely fell in love with Mr Lemon and his beautiful friendship with Rachel and although the author of the mysterious letters is apparent some time before the reveal it doesn't lessen the impact of the reveal between the characters and doesnt affect the way the book reads.
thoroughly likeable characters and sensitively written giving enough weight to the trauma suffered by Rachel and the struggles she has to recover and carry on with her life.
I absolutely fell in love with Mr Lemon and his beautiful friendship with Rachel and although the author of the mysterious letters is apparent some time before the reveal it doesn't lessen the impact of the reveal between the characters and doesnt affect the way the book reads.
August 16, 2020
Beautiful
I'm a huge fan of Taryn Leigh's books. Such a powerfully unique voice, yet her words are as comforting as a hug. Coming of age, friendships, family, love, loyalty, drama, mystery, and luscious food (the way this author so effortlessly weaves food, teas, and their prep into this story is like opening up a favourite cookbook!) combine to make an unforgettable tale. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next...
I'm a huge fan of Taryn Leigh's books. Such a powerfully unique voice, yet her words are as comforting as a hug. Coming of age, friendships, family, love, loyalty, drama, mystery, and luscious food (the way this author so effortlessly weaves food, teas, and their prep into this story is like opening up a favourite cookbook!) combine to make an unforgettable tale. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next...
August 23, 2020
The secret letters by Taryn Leigh.
This was a lovely read. Great story and characters. I liked Rachel character.
She was my favourite. I was surprised with who it was that wrote the letters. I was surprised with the ending too. 4*.
This was a lovely read. Great story and characters. I liked Rachel character.
She was my favourite. I was surprised with who it was that wrote the letters. I was surprised with the ending too. 4*.
September 9, 2020
When I came across this book the cover stood out because it’s so pretty. I enjoyed reading this book front to back. Taryn Leigh describes the scenery so well that you can imagine being there. I highly recommend reading The Secret Letters.
July 21, 2021
"What is ahead of you is far greater than what has happened to you"
Rachel is attacked on her graduation day but she is saved by a mysterious stranger who ends up sending her letters through which she recovers from the attack and gains her self confidence. After many years when she is enjoying life with her best friend,(Amelia) dogs and improving her relationship with her boyfriend(Will) the attacker strikes again. Then she learns a devastating truth. Her world turns upside down and suddenly there is a new person in her life who genuinely cares for her.
The letters which had disappeared start appearing again and this time she hopes to find the identity of the stranger. Will she succeed? Who is it? Grab the book to know.
I loved it. The plot builds up gradually around Rachel's life and every character seemed important. I could relate very much to the protagonist as she seemed so real. There was no melodrama and had a beautiful ending. It had something to offer at every stage. The author has also focused on other relationships and emotions other than the main plot which I thought was much needed. There is love, suspense, family bonding , betrayal and friendships. This is beautiful read.
I recommend this to everyone
Rachel is attacked on her graduation day but she is saved by a mysterious stranger who ends up sending her letters through which she recovers from the attack and gains her self confidence. After many years when she is enjoying life with her best friend,(Amelia) dogs and improving her relationship with her boyfriend(Will) the attacker strikes again. Then she learns a devastating truth. Her world turns upside down and suddenly there is a new person in her life who genuinely cares for her.
The letters which had disappeared start appearing again and this time she hopes to find the identity of the stranger. Will she succeed? Who is it? Grab the book to know.
I loved it. The plot builds up gradually around Rachel's life and every character seemed important. I could relate very much to the protagonist as she seemed so real. There was no melodrama and had a beautiful ending. It had something to offer at every stage. The author has also focused on other relationships and emotions other than the main plot which I thought was much needed. There is love, suspense, family bonding , betrayal and friendships. This is beautiful read.
I recommend this to everyone
October 16, 2020
The Secret Letters by Taryn Leigh is a romance novel with a dark heart. Twelve years ago Rachel was attacked at her school prom, and only escaped after a stranger saved her. The only people who knew about this were her parents. Now Rachel is a psychologist, helping others at the expense of her self. Her relationship with her boyfriend, Will isn’t working out, and her best friend Amelia thinks she needs to face the problem and leave him. One day, Rachel’ world is turned upside down, leaving her frightened and vunerable. The only way she gets through this is with the help of Will’s arrogant and distant older brother Rauri and from the secret letters that start arriving again, like they did twelve years ago, from the man who saved her the night she was attacked.
The Secret Letters was a such a joy to read and I actually sat and read it in one sitting. First of all I loved the setting of South Africa, not a place I have read about in many books; maybe I need to broaden my horizons. Taryn’s descriptions of the landscape, the animals and especially the Sun City resort were wonderful, painting a picture of such a stunning place and making me google it on the internet. When I first picked up this book I thought it would be a bit of a sentimental fuzzy romance, a genre I do like, but it had a darker side to the plot that I was pleasantly surprised by. The subject of sexual attacks is a difficult subject to write about, it needs an empathy, understanding and needs to be treated with care, there for a reason not just for dramatic effect. Taryn Leigh handles this brilliantly, capturing the fear, dread and emotions of Rachel, the character who has to deal with this.
As a character Rachel is of course troubled by the events twelve years ago, it’s hardly something anyone could forget. It is only Rachel’s parents that know of the attack; she has never told her estranged brother or her current boyfriend Will or friend Amelia. The trauma has left her feeling vunerable, she doesn’t want people to see her as a victim, to look at her differently which they would. Her vunerailty means she has a very few friends, only Amelia and her new friend Mr Lemon and stays in her comfortable realtionship with Will because it is safe. However, when it counts it isn’t Will or Amelia who are there for her, but Will’s elder brother Rauri and her new friend Mr Lemon. Rauri has never had an easy relationship with Rachel even though she has been dating Will for eleven years and works with him at the hospital; he is a psychiatrist and Rachel a psychologist. Their realtionship is awkward and distant, Rachel doesn’t trust him but he is the one that stands by her when she suffers the ultimate betrayal. I really had a soft spot for Rachel’s two cocker spaniels Max and Snuggles as I have four myself; I always say a cocker spaniel is a good judge of character and anyone who owns one has to be a good person, like Rachel.
The Secret Letters was a captivating and engaging read that I read in one sitting as I couldn’t put it down. Taryn Leigh shows great understanding to the topics of sexual assault and mental health, but also keeps a lightness to the plot with the romance and humour. The combination of romance and thriller works well and makes this such a intriguing and compelling read and one I highly recommend.
The Secret Letters was a such a joy to read and I actually sat and read it in one sitting. First of all I loved the setting of South Africa, not a place I have read about in many books; maybe I need to broaden my horizons. Taryn’s descriptions of the landscape, the animals and especially the Sun City resort were wonderful, painting a picture of such a stunning place and making me google it on the internet. When I first picked up this book I thought it would be a bit of a sentimental fuzzy romance, a genre I do like, but it had a darker side to the plot that I was pleasantly surprised by. The subject of sexual attacks is a difficult subject to write about, it needs an empathy, understanding and needs to be treated with care, there for a reason not just for dramatic effect. Taryn Leigh handles this brilliantly, capturing the fear, dread and emotions of Rachel, the character who has to deal with this.
As a character Rachel is of course troubled by the events twelve years ago, it’s hardly something anyone could forget. It is only Rachel’s parents that know of the attack; she has never told her estranged brother or her current boyfriend Will or friend Amelia. The trauma has left her feeling vunerable, she doesn’t want people to see her as a victim, to look at her differently which they would. Her vunerailty means she has a very few friends, only Amelia and her new friend Mr Lemon and stays in her comfortable realtionship with Will because it is safe. However, when it counts it isn’t Will or Amelia who are there for her, but Will’s elder brother Rauri and her new friend Mr Lemon. Rauri has never had an easy relationship with Rachel even though she has been dating Will for eleven years and works with him at the hospital; he is a psychiatrist and Rachel a psychologist. Their realtionship is awkward and distant, Rachel doesn’t trust him but he is the one that stands by her when she suffers the ultimate betrayal. I really had a soft spot for Rachel’s two cocker spaniels Max and Snuggles as I have four myself; I always say a cocker spaniel is a good judge of character and anyone who owns one has to be a good person, like Rachel.
The Secret Letters was a captivating and engaging read that I read in one sitting as I couldn’t put it down. Taryn Leigh shows great understanding to the topics of sexual assault and mental health, but also keeps a lightness to the plot with the romance and humour. The combination of romance and thriller works well and makes this such a intriguing and compelling read and one I highly recommend.
July 8, 2021
Harrowing yet beautiful
The story has what could be a trigger for some readers but the incidents are handled with care. The development of the character is in depth as are the other characters within this story.
The story has what could be a trigger for some readers but the incidents are handled with care. The development of the character is in depth as are the other characters within this story.
August 14, 2020
Review to come
September 15, 2020
On what should have been a fun memorable evening, Rachel is attacked outside her school dance, only getting away thanks to a mysterious stranger. Traumatised and deeply shaken she has to rebuild her life and the anonymous letters she begins to receive play a big part in helping to build her confidence again.
Years later Rachel has taken her traumatic experience and turned it on it’s head, training as a psychiatrist and helping others begin their journey of healing and acceptance. But, her past was simply lurking in the shadows as an encounter with her attacker becomes the catalyst for a series of devastating events and revelations that send her spiralling into depression. Everything is simply too much for Rachel to cope with leaving her spiralling out of control, that is until the letters begin to drop through her door once more, but will she eventually find out who has been sending them?
Before I talk about my feelings regarding this book please be aware of a number of trigger warnings including; violence, sexual attack, rape, trauma, depression & mental health discussion.
This book was completely different from the one I was expecting, delving into some really difficult discussions. Having said that I feel that Leigh has done an amazing job of dealing with the topics sensitively with compassion, whilst still using the book to highlight issues that need to be discussed. Having been inspired by a true story Leigh has taken a shocking event and successfully shared one woman’s story of survival and courage on the pages of her fictional tale.
The stunning backdrop for this story is the authors home country of South Africa and her vivid descriptions of the scenery are amazing. I really felt a connection to the setting and the cover depicts the beautiful jacaranda trees which are referenced within the book which I’m sure you agree makes it eye-catching.
As for the story, whilst harrowing and traumatic I did find it quite predictable having guessed the anonymous letter writer only a few chapters in. I’m not sure if this was deliberate, but I still enjoyed the book nevertheless. I also at times found the chapters to be a little disjointed on occasion, not really understanding why so much detail was given which didn’t really relate to the story; again this didn’t detract from my overall enjoyment.
The highlight of this book for me though is definitely the friendship Rachel, our protagonist, forms with the elderly Mr Lemon. He is a wonderful warm and relatable character that really added some light and laughter to what is a dark story. The relationship transcending the decades between the two is an utter joy to read and see develop, with the two helping each other in ways they could never have foreseen.
The Secret Letters is a fast paced read that is jam packed with everything from romance and mystery to betrayal and friendship. It successfully balances emotional dark moments with heartwarming laughter and I really enjoyed my first experience of reading from this author
Years later Rachel has taken her traumatic experience and turned it on it’s head, training as a psychiatrist and helping others begin their journey of healing and acceptance. But, her past was simply lurking in the shadows as an encounter with her attacker becomes the catalyst for a series of devastating events and revelations that send her spiralling into depression. Everything is simply too much for Rachel to cope with leaving her spiralling out of control, that is until the letters begin to drop through her door once more, but will she eventually find out who has been sending them?
Before I talk about my feelings regarding this book please be aware of a number of trigger warnings including; violence, sexual attack, rape, trauma, depression & mental health discussion.
This book was completely different from the one I was expecting, delving into some really difficult discussions. Having said that I feel that Leigh has done an amazing job of dealing with the topics sensitively with compassion, whilst still using the book to highlight issues that need to be discussed. Having been inspired by a true story Leigh has taken a shocking event and successfully shared one woman’s story of survival and courage on the pages of her fictional tale.
The stunning backdrop for this story is the authors home country of South Africa and her vivid descriptions of the scenery are amazing. I really felt a connection to the setting and the cover depicts the beautiful jacaranda trees which are referenced within the book which I’m sure you agree makes it eye-catching.
As for the story, whilst harrowing and traumatic I did find it quite predictable having guessed the anonymous letter writer only a few chapters in. I’m not sure if this was deliberate, but I still enjoyed the book nevertheless. I also at times found the chapters to be a little disjointed on occasion, not really understanding why so much detail was given which didn’t really relate to the story; again this didn’t detract from my overall enjoyment.
The highlight of this book for me though is definitely the friendship Rachel, our protagonist, forms with the elderly Mr Lemon. He is a wonderful warm and relatable character that really added some light and laughter to what is a dark story. The relationship transcending the decades between the two is an utter joy to read and see develop, with the two helping each other in ways they could never have foreseen.
The Secret Letters is a fast paced read that is jam packed with everything from romance and mystery to betrayal and friendship. It successfully balances emotional dark moments with heartwarming laughter and I really enjoyed my first experience of reading from this author
August 30, 2020
Before starting a review of the actual book, I feel that mention has to be made of the absolutely stunning cover! The gorgeous jacaranda trees depicted here are what give Pretoria, where the book is set, the name ‘The Jacaranda City’. Although they’re beautiful to look at when in bloom, locals have been known to utter a curse or two when the purple blooms fall from the trees, creating a slippery carpet underfoot!
When Rachel was in her final year of high school, she suffered a frightening and brutal attack, from which she was saved by a stranger who she never had the opportunity to thank. She’s now 30 and although she’s managed to get on with her life, this incident has always remained with her … part of her that will never go away.
Not surprisingly, Rachel is a psychologist and immerses herself in helping others. However, her own life doesn’t get so much of her attention and she’s let that slide. She’s been in a relationship with Will for 11 years, but recently it’s most definitely lost most of the spark they once had. In fact, they barely seem to communicate. And it doesn’t help that she’s never gotten along with his aloof (actually downright rude) brother Ruari, who she unfortunately also has to work with.
She doesn’t have many friends either, depending mainly on her closest friend Amelia, who she tries to get together with regularly. She’s estranged from the brother she was once so close to, and although she has a close relationship with her parents, she doesn’t see them often as they live out of town.
So although Rachel tells herself that she’s content with her life, she’s actually quite isolated. It doesn’t really bother her. She’s just getting on with things, in her little bubble. She doesn’t need anyone or anything else, other than what she currently has. It’s only when tragedy strikes that she suddenly realizes how alone she really is, and she wonders who she can turn to. But then she starts receiving anonymous letters from the person who rescued her all those years ago. He’s out there, watching over her from a distance, letting know that she’s not alone
This is an instantly engaging book and although there are parts that are shocking and disturbing, it is essentially a love story. But it’s a love story that has two different messages: it’s about how we need to learn to love ourselves above all else, before we’re able to love someone else; and it’s about recognising and acknowledging the love that others have for us, even when they can’t openly display it.
This story is based on a true-life event – a harrowing attack that happened some years ago – and when the author met the person to whom this occurred, she knew without a doubt that she needed to find a way to share her story with the world. It’s taken some time, but Taryn Leigh has certainly done it justice and should be highly commended for doing so.
This is a 4-star read that I’d highly recommend!
When Rachel was in her final year of high school, she suffered a frightening and brutal attack, from which she was saved by a stranger who she never had the opportunity to thank. She’s now 30 and although she’s managed to get on with her life, this incident has always remained with her … part of her that will never go away.
Not surprisingly, Rachel is a psychologist and immerses herself in helping others. However, her own life doesn’t get so much of her attention and she’s let that slide. She’s been in a relationship with Will for 11 years, but recently it’s most definitely lost most of the spark they once had. In fact, they barely seem to communicate. And it doesn’t help that she’s never gotten along with his aloof (actually downright rude) brother Ruari, who she unfortunately also has to work with.
She doesn’t have many friends either, depending mainly on her closest friend Amelia, who she tries to get together with regularly. She’s estranged from the brother she was once so close to, and although she has a close relationship with her parents, she doesn’t see them often as they live out of town.
So although Rachel tells herself that she’s content with her life, she’s actually quite isolated. It doesn’t really bother her. She’s just getting on with things, in her little bubble. She doesn’t need anyone or anything else, other than what she currently has. It’s only when tragedy strikes that she suddenly realizes how alone she really is, and she wonders who she can turn to. But then she starts receiving anonymous letters from the person who rescued her all those years ago. He’s out there, watching over her from a distance, letting know that she’s not alone
This is an instantly engaging book and although there are parts that are shocking and disturbing, it is essentially a love story. But it’s a love story that has two different messages: it’s about how we need to learn to love ourselves above all else, before we’re able to love someone else; and it’s about recognising and acknowledging the love that others have for us, even when they can’t openly display it.
This story is based on a true-life event – a harrowing attack that happened some years ago – and when the author met the person to whom this occurred, she knew without a doubt that she needed to find a way to share her story with the world. It’s taken some time, but Taryn Leigh has certainly done it justice and should be highly commended for doing so.
This is a 4-star read that I’d highly recommend!
October 4, 2020
Firstly, oh my word, what a stunning cover! It immediately drew me to the book and I just had to find out more. The beauty of the cover matches the beauty inside the book. There is alot going in in Rachels life but the letters she receives are so warm and inspiring.
It was a story that I really couldn't put down. It has it all. Romance, betrayal, mystery, surprises! There was plenty to keep me hooked.
This was my first Taryn Leigh book and I absolutely loved it! I will definitely be reading more from her.
It was a story that I really couldn't put down. It has it all. Romance, betrayal, mystery, surprises! There was plenty to keep me hooked.
This was my first Taryn Leigh book and I absolutely loved it! I will definitely be reading more from her.
August 10, 2020
There was such a lot I enjoyed about this book, an engaging story based on a real experience of gender-based violence, a satisfying exploration of recovery and becoming an “overcomer” rather than victim.
Rachel herself is quite a complex character, living under the shadow of her earlier experience of a violent attack, always with that edge of fear. Now a psychologist, she really doesn’t seem a particularly astute judge of character – she’s rather settled for the relative security of an unexciting relationship with Will, but when she needs him the most he’s strangely absent. She rejects the support of his brother Ruari – well placed to help her, and who plainly cares for her – but places trust in supportive letters from a complete stranger. But then she forms another relationship, with the elderly and lonely Mr Lemon – and it’s one that sustains her while she searches for her own sense of direction.
This whole book addresses some really tough subject matter – and deals with it very well indeed, with a real feel of authenticity about all the characters and their actions. The pacing is excellent, the tension cranks up nicely to one unexpectedly traumatic incident – so well written – and I was entirely drawn in by Rachel and her story, hoping she’d emerge stronger and with the happy ending she deserved.
The author’s style is immensely readable – I really don’t mean to be rude if I say that it almost had a YA feel at times, which only increased the impact as the story grew darker. I will admit that some of its twists didn’t entirely surprise me – but that didn’t matter one bit.
It’s very rarely that I’ve read a book set in South Africa, and this book really does have an exceptional sense of place. Rachel lives in Pretoria, in a gated community – with zebra at the bottom of the garden. And there are some fascinating outings – to vividly drawn locations like the safari lodge and Sun City that had me exploring google to find out more.
I really enjoyed the book’s focus on family and what it means – her efforts on behalf of Mr Lemon, and Ruari’s relationship with his brother. And the romance really worked for me – touched my heart, and what a lovely man.
Yes, I enjoyed this one – something a little different, and a really engaging read.
Rachel herself is quite a complex character, living under the shadow of her earlier experience of a violent attack, always with that edge of fear. Now a psychologist, she really doesn’t seem a particularly astute judge of character – she’s rather settled for the relative security of an unexciting relationship with Will, but when she needs him the most he’s strangely absent. She rejects the support of his brother Ruari – well placed to help her, and who plainly cares for her – but places trust in supportive letters from a complete stranger. But then she forms another relationship, with the elderly and lonely Mr Lemon – and it’s one that sustains her while she searches for her own sense of direction.
This whole book addresses some really tough subject matter – and deals with it very well indeed, with a real feel of authenticity about all the characters and their actions. The pacing is excellent, the tension cranks up nicely to one unexpectedly traumatic incident – so well written – and I was entirely drawn in by Rachel and her story, hoping she’d emerge stronger and with the happy ending she deserved.
The author’s style is immensely readable – I really don’t mean to be rude if I say that it almost had a YA feel at times, which only increased the impact as the story grew darker. I will admit that some of its twists didn’t entirely surprise me – but that didn’t matter one bit.
It’s very rarely that I’ve read a book set in South Africa, and this book really does have an exceptional sense of place. Rachel lives in Pretoria, in a gated community – with zebra at the bottom of the garden. And there are some fascinating outings – to vividly drawn locations like the safari lodge and Sun City that had me exploring google to find out more.
I really enjoyed the book’s focus on family and what it means – her efforts on behalf of Mr Lemon, and Ruari’s relationship with his brother. And the romance really worked for me – touched my heart, and what a lovely man.
Yes, I enjoyed this one – something a little different, and a really engaging read.
August 10, 2020
Taryn Leigh's beautiful love story set in scenic South Africa is filled with so much emotion including pain, hope, and renewal. And what a gorgeous cover!
Rachel's life as a psychologist is rewarding, but her relationship with her long-time boyfriend, Will is stagnant. With hopes of getting their lives back on track, she is planning a couples' trip to Rio with her best friend, Amelia, and her boyfriend Carlos. Then tragedy strikes and Rachel is assaulted in her home. Assaulted by the same man who attacked her in high school. But this time she has no one to save her. She is alone...with no support from either Will or Amelia until Will's brother and Rachel's co-worker, Rauri comes to her rescue. Rauri, the man who won't give her the time of day; the man who doesn't like her.
And then the letters start coming again. The encouraging and uplifting anonymous letters that helped her move on after her first assault have started up again after no word for years. Who is this person, and why do they care so much?
There are so many diverse characters in this book. My heart broke for Rachel when she felt so alone, but Rachel is so strong and her kindness and selflessness to others comes back to her twofold when she needs the love of her new friends and family the most. Mr. Lemon is a good friend with crosses to bear, and Rachel is unstoppable in helping him find peace with his estranged son. Rauri is an enigma at first who, without hesitation, helps Rachel cope with her demons showing her his compassionate and caring side and becoming a good friend and confidante. Rachel's brother Dan is a pivotal character as well.
Overall, I loved this multi-faceted story about betrayal, tragedy, friendship, and redemption. It is full of wonderfully insightful quotes and wisdom of coping with trauma and finding forgiveness, and I recommend it highly!
Thank you to Ms. Leigh for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
Rachel's life as a psychologist is rewarding, but her relationship with her long-time boyfriend, Will is stagnant. With hopes of getting their lives back on track, she is planning a couples' trip to Rio with her best friend, Amelia, and her boyfriend Carlos. Then tragedy strikes and Rachel is assaulted in her home. Assaulted by the same man who attacked her in high school. But this time she has no one to save her. She is alone...with no support from either Will or Amelia until Will's brother and Rachel's co-worker, Rauri comes to her rescue. Rauri, the man who won't give her the time of day; the man who doesn't like her.
And then the letters start coming again. The encouraging and uplifting anonymous letters that helped her move on after her first assault have started up again after no word for years. Who is this person, and why do they care so much?
There are so many diverse characters in this book. My heart broke for Rachel when she felt so alone, but Rachel is so strong and her kindness and selflessness to others comes back to her twofold when she needs the love of her new friends and family the most. Mr. Lemon is a good friend with crosses to bear, and Rachel is unstoppable in helping him find peace with his estranged son. Rauri is an enigma at first who, without hesitation, helps Rachel cope with her demons showing her his compassionate and caring side and becoming a good friend and confidante. Rachel's brother Dan is a pivotal character as well.
Overall, I loved this multi-faceted story about betrayal, tragedy, friendship, and redemption. It is full of wonderfully insightful quotes and wisdom of coping with trauma and finding forgiveness, and I recommend it highly!
Thank you to Ms. Leigh for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
September 9, 2020
I have always been a sucker for novels that involve letters; perhaps it is a nod to the more interpersonal world that predates the era of the twitter and the tweet. That is why I turned to Taryn Leigh’s novel-along with its highly aesthetic cover-and I was not disappointed. Rachel, the novel’s protagonist, suffered a brutal attack and to cope-and to allow other’s to cope, she becomes a psychologist. However, in the process of helping others open up, she keeps her own heart tightly sealed in a zip-lock bag, the underlying reason why her romantic relationship came with an expiration date. At her lowest ebb, she begins receiving letters from the anonymous stranger who had rescued her from the attack from years before….Ah, if we could only receive such letters.
July 11, 2021
REVIEW
This book has been portrayed to make a person strong mentally and to live for themselves and learn to forgive as it is the best thing that can make you big in front of egoistic people.
At first, when I read the prologue it seems to be very engrossing and as I started reading at my pace I felt in beginning it was satisfying and the story was going well and from the middle, it was very engrossing and kept me hooked till the end.
I felt the pain of the girl how she suffered but I was very happy when she tried very hard to make her life better and the secret letter which gave her the motivation to accept the reality and to fight for it and she did but in her mind, there was always a question who is the good wisher behind that secret letter she has receiving from the day she got saved from the man who has little penis in place of the brain.
The book is overall the best-read and has a story of a survivor of assault and the person who made her life hell by tormenting her mental health and how she came out of the hell which she felt for years with the help of secret letters and the man behind it.
Glimpse in a blink
Rachel is now a psychotherapist and is in a relationship for the past 11 years but she never has the feeling to move forward and marry him, she was okay with whatever was between them but whenever she thought about it she couldn't see what the future holds for them.
She had a very horrible past which is still tormenting her mental health whenever she thought came in her mind and face of that man, she would get very afraid and after 11 years she was now good and living her life casually till the day he came back in her life and threatened her that no one saves her from him.
When she was again assaulted by him she was saved due to her bravery and the man got arrested but even his thoughts made her very vulnerable and locked herself in the room crying and afraid of him, that time a letter came in to rescue her from that awful experience and that letter motivated her to live her life and she remembered the past she also used to get the letter when she experienced it the first time and that letter made her strong.
Rachel tried to know who is sending her the letter but she didn't get any clue but one day she saw him and that broke her heart.
This book has been portrayed to make a person strong mentally and to live for themselves and learn to forgive as it is the best thing that can make you big in front of egoistic people.
At first, when I read the prologue it seems to be very engrossing and as I started reading at my pace I felt in beginning it was satisfying and the story was going well and from the middle, it was very engrossing and kept me hooked till the end.
I felt the pain of the girl how she suffered but I was very happy when she tried very hard to make her life better and the secret letter which gave her the motivation to accept the reality and to fight for it and she did but in her mind, there was always a question who is the good wisher behind that secret letter she has receiving from the day she got saved from the man who has little penis in place of the brain.
The book is overall the best-read and has a story of a survivor of assault and the person who made her life hell by tormenting her mental health and how she came out of the hell which she felt for years with the help of secret letters and the man behind it.
Glimpse in a blink
Rachel is now a psychotherapist and is in a relationship for the past 11 years but she never has the feeling to move forward and marry him, she was okay with whatever was between them but whenever she thought about it she couldn't see what the future holds for them.
She had a very horrible past which is still tormenting her mental health whenever she thought came in her mind and face of that man, she would get very afraid and after 11 years she was now good and living her life casually till the day he came back in her life and threatened her that no one saves her from him.
When she was again assaulted by him she was saved due to her bravery and the man got arrested but even his thoughts made her very vulnerable and locked herself in the room crying and afraid of him, that time a letter came in to rescue her from that awful experience and that letter motivated her to live her life and she remembered the past she also used to get the letter when she experienced it the first time and that letter made her strong.
Rachel tried to know who is sending her the letter but she didn't get any clue but one day she saw him and that broke her heart.
July 11, 2021
📚 Rating: 3.6/5️⃣
|| BOOK REVIEW || - 🍁 The Book, The Secret Letters By Taryn Leigh, is a Fictional Story.
🍂
🍁 The Author has written an Unforgettable Story. The Story is set in South Africa. The Author has written about South Africa as well in the Book.
🍂
🍁 The Protagonist, Rachel is in Relationship with Will. Rachel and Amelia are Friends. They Discuss about Marriage and Commitment at Length with each other. Rachel and Will are Together for Last Eleven years. Friendship of Rachel and Amelia is portrayed Beautifully in the Book. Their Friendly Conversations are a must Read For Everyone.
🍂
🍁 Around Twelve Years Ago, Rachel was saved from an attack by the stranger. She Receives the Letter from this stranger and this Turns the things upside down. Read an Amazing Story of Rachel and get to know How she handles her Traumatic Attack and survives Tough Situations.
🍂
🍁 The Plot has many Twists and Turns. The Story is an Unpredictable and has many Surprise Elements.
🍂
🍁 The story has Romance, Drama, Suspense and some Sensitive Issues. The Author has written Romantic Story and yet has successfully Touched upon Sensitive issues like Psychological Trauma.
🍂
🍁 The Language of the Book is Lucid. The Writing Style of the Book is Slow - Paced. The Cover of the Book is Fabulous. The Title of the Book is an Absolutely Appropriate.
🍂
🍁 The Author has portrayed Varied Emotions Beautifully through the Story.
🍂
🍁 The Book is a Good Pick For someone who Likes to Read Slow - Paced Fictional Stories.
|| PERSONAL INSIGHT || - 🌸 Although, I enjoyed Reading the Book, the Story could have been Written with a Fast - Paced Writing Style And That Would have Made the Book a Bit Shorter and an Intriguing to be Read.
🍂
🍁 The Story has some Triggering Issues and hence if someone Likes to Read Light Stories For Leisure Purpose Then the Book is Not a Good Pick For Him/Her.
|| BOOK REVIEW || - 🍁 The Book, The Secret Letters By Taryn Leigh, is a Fictional Story.
🍂
🍁 The Author has written an Unforgettable Story. The Story is set in South Africa. The Author has written about South Africa as well in the Book.
🍂
🍁 The Protagonist, Rachel is in Relationship with Will. Rachel and Amelia are Friends. They Discuss about Marriage and Commitment at Length with each other. Rachel and Will are Together for Last Eleven years. Friendship of Rachel and Amelia is portrayed Beautifully in the Book. Their Friendly Conversations are a must Read For Everyone.
🍂
🍁 Around Twelve Years Ago, Rachel was saved from an attack by the stranger. She Receives the Letter from this stranger and this Turns the things upside down. Read an Amazing Story of Rachel and get to know How she handles her Traumatic Attack and survives Tough Situations.
🍂
🍁 The Plot has many Twists and Turns. The Story is an Unpredictable and has many Surprise Elements.
🍂
🍁 The story has Romance, Drama, Suspense and some Sensitive Issues. The Author has written Romantic Story and yet has successfully Touched upon Sensitive issues like Psychological Trauma.
🍂
🍁 The Language of the Book is Lucid. The Writing Style of the Book is Slow - Paced. The Cover of the Book is Fabulous. The Title of the Book is an Absolutely Appropriate.
🍂
🍁 The Author has portrayed Varied Emotions Beautifully through the Story.
🍂
🍁 The Book is a Good Pick For someone who Likes to Read Slow - Paced Fictional Stories.
|| PERSONAL INSIGHT || - 🌸 Although, I enjoyed Reading the Book, the Story could have been Written with a Fast - Paced Writing Style And That Would have Made the Book a Bit Shorter and an Intriguing to be Read.
🍂
🍁 The Story has some Triggering Issues and hence if someone Likes to Read Light Stories For Leisure Purpose Then the Book is Not a Good Pick For Him/Her.
June 13, 2025
I am not a huge romance reader and this is the first one I have read this year, but I was really intrigued by the blurb and so taken with the stunning cover, that I could not decline when Taryn made contact to see if I would like to read this story.
The more I got deeper into the story, I found it to be more darker than your traditional romance with its hard hitting themes of rape, violence and abuse, which may be a trigger for some readers. It also showcases themes of friendship, overcoming fears and taking back ones power which did balance this out.
The story follows Rachel, who after a childhood trauma, chose to become a psychologist to help those overcome the same pain that she has also experienced. But in fixing other people’s problems, she has neglected herself and has become oblivious to her own struggles. When tragedy strikes her again, she starts to spiral that is until she starts to receive anonymous letters from the stranger that saved her twelve years before.
I loved Rachel’s character and I connected with her right off the bat. I could feel her pain and she really got under my skin. Mr Lemon was also a beautiful and heartwarming character and I absolutely adored him.
The setting in South Africa could not have been more perfect and really was a stunning backdrop for the story. Through Taryn’s very vivid writing, she made me also feel like I was there in the story by Rachel’s side as it all unfolded.
The Secret Letters is a very captivating read that I could not get enough of and read in one sitting. It completely took me over which is such a credit to Taryn’s amazing storytelling. You have a new fan in me Taryn and I will be eagerly awaiting to read what you come up with next.
Thank you so much Taryn for reaching out and bringing into my life such a beautiful story which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
The more I got deeper into the story, I found it to be more darker than your traditional romance with its hard hitting themes of rape, violence and abuse, which may be a trigger for some readers. It also showcases themes of friendship, overcoming fears and taking back ones power which did balance this out.
The story follows Rachel, who after a childhood trauma, chose to become a psychologist to help those overcome the same pain that she has also experienced. But in fixing other people’s problems, she has neglected herself and has become oblivious to her own struggles. When tragedy strikes her again, she starts to spiral that is until she starts to receive anonymous letters from the stranger that saved her twelve years before.
I loved Rachel’s character and I connected with her right off the bat. I could feel her pain and she really got under my skin. Mr Lemon was also a beautiful and heartwarming character and I absolutely adored him.
The setting in South Africa could not have been more perfect and really was a stunning backdrop for the story. Through Taryn’s very vivid writing, she made me also feel like I was there in the story by Rachel’s side as it all unfolded.
The Secret Letters is a very captivating read that I could not get enough of and read in one sitting. It completely took me over which is such a credit to Taryn’s amazing storytelling. You have a new fan in me Taryn and I will be eagerly awaiting to read what you come up with next.
Thank you so much Taryn for reaching out and bringing into my life such a beautiful story which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
August 9, 2020
Rachel deals with others’ problems but isn’t good at dealing with her own.
The Secret Letters is a highly entertaining story that I really enjoyed. Whilst I was able to guess many of the plot reveals, this was by no means detrimental to the read because Taryn Leigh structures her novel in a very satisfying way. There’s a super balance between dramatic moments and quieter aspects so that The Secret Letters feels complete and rewarding.
One of the elements that I thoroughly enjoyed was the sense of place. I’ve loved visiting South Africa in the past and The Secret Letters enabled me to visit an area, Pretoria, that I haven’t been to and to relive some of the experiences, like safaris, that I have been on. The descriptions of food too add an extra element of realism that left me feeling quite hungry at times.
I found Rachel an intriguing character. She can be insightful and completely blinkered. She can be generous and selfish. She is both strong and vulnerable, occasionally behaving foolishly and recklessly so that she embodies traits that so many readers will recognise. On occasion I found myself desperate to tell her to do something differently!
Whilst the plot is quick and entertaining it was the exploration of theme in The Secret Letters that appealed to me most. Taryn Leigh has a sensitive insight into the way we can be self-delusional, how our past can so deeply affect our lives and how true family and friendship is something that doesn’t always come easily but might need to be worked on in order to thrive. The impact of fear on an individual is almost tender in its portrayal.
The Secret Letters is an entertaining narrative with a real sense of humanity running through it. I enjoyed reading it.
The Secret Letters is a highly entertaining story that I really enjoyed. Whilst I was able to guess many of the plot reveals, this was by no means detrimental to the read because Taryn Leigh structures her novel in a very satisfying way. There’s a super balance between dramatic moments and quieter aspects so that The Secret Letters feels complete and rewarding.
One of the elements that I thoroughly enjoyed was the sense of place. I’ve loved visiting South Africa in the past and The Secret Letters enabled me to visit an area, Pretoria, that I haven’t been to and to relive some of the experiences, like safaris, that I have been on. The descriptions of food too add an extra element of realism that left me feeling quite hungry at times.
I found Rachel an intriguing character. She can be insightful and completely blinkered. She can be generous and selfish. She is both strong and vulnerable, occasionally behaving foolishly and recklessly so that she embodies traits that so many readers will recognise. On occasion I found myself desperate to tell her to do something differently!
Whilst the plot is quick and entertaining it was the exploration of theme in The Secret Letters that appealed to me most. Taryn Leigh has a sensitive insight into the way we can be self-delusional, how our past can so deeply affect our lives and how true family and friendship is something that doesn’t always come easily but might need to be worked on in order to thrive. The impact of fear on an individual is almost tender in its portrayal.
The Secret Letters is an entertaining narrative with a real sense of humanity running through it. I enjoyed reading it.
August 8, 2020
Linda's Book Obsession Reviews "The Secret Letters" by Taryn Leigh, August 2020
Taryn Leigh, the author of "The Secret Letters" has written a memorable, and thought-provoking novel. The genres for this story are fiction, women's fiction, contemporary fiction, with some suspense and mystery. The story takes place in the present and goes to the past when it pertains to the characters or events. The author describes her dramatic characters as complex and complicated. There are secrets, and betrayals.
Rachel is a psychologist, and her desire to help patients comes from her own experience when she was attacked 12 years before. She didn't see the person who saved her, but has gotten inspirational letters that got her through her darkest times. Again, she doesn't know who sent them.
Rachel has been going with her boyfriend Will for many years. There is no sign of future commitment, and Rachel seems ambivalent about that situation. Will's brother Ruari works in Rachel's field but seems cold and indifferent to her. Rachel has to refer one of her patients to Ruari for possible intervention with medication.
A tragedy occurs, and Will sends his brother in his place to help Rachel. Suddenly after so many years, Rachel starts getting the letters of encouragement. As Rachel tries to work out her situation, she is determined to find out the identity of the person who is helping her.
I appreciate that Taryn Leigh discusses the problem of victims and assault, the importance of family, friends, communication, love, and hope. I highly recommend this emotional and thought-provoking story.
Taryn Leigh, the author of "The Secret Letters" has written a memorable, and thought-provoking novel. The genres for this story are fiction, women's fiction, contemporary fiction, with some suspense and mystery. The story takes place in the present and goes to the past when it pertains to the characters or events. The author describes her dramatic characters as complex and complicated. There are secrets, and betrayals.
Rachel is a psychologist, and her desire to help patients comes from her own experience when she was attacked 12 years before. She didn't see the person who saved her, but has gotten inspirational letters that got her through her darkest times. Again, she doesn't know who sent them.
Rachel has been going with her boyfriend Will for many years. There is no sign of future commitment, and Rachel seems ambivalent about that situation. Will's brother Ruari works in Rachel's field but seems cold and indifferent to her. Rachel has to refer one of her patients to Ruari for possible intervention with medication.
A tragedy occurs, and Will sends his brother in his place to help Rachel. Suddenly after so many years, Rachel starts getting the letters of encouragement. As Rachel tries to work out her situation, she is determined to find out the identity of the person who is helping her.
I appreciate that Taryn Leigh discusses the problem of victims and assault, the importance of family, friends, communication, love, and hope. I highly recommend this emotional and thought-provoking story.
July 21, 2021
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭 𝐋𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
by 𝐓𝐚𝐫𝐲𝐧 𝐋𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡
🎐The story revolves around the protagonist, Rachel, a simple girl and a psychotherpist by profession. She had a dearest best friend, named Amelia with whom she can talk for hours and hours about important and random stuffs. She was in a relationship from past 11 years with a guy named Will.
🎐The book takes us back to the time of 12 years ago when Rachel was attacked in her Prom night. But she was able to escape it with the help of a stranger.
🎐That incident scarred her soul in an irreparable way. This created a small, dark room in her life in which she was stuck for ever, never able to overcome that incident actually and live freely.
🎐She was a happy bubbly girl on outside but inside she was full of voids and dissapoinment.
🎐All of a sudden, she started recieving anonymous letter from that stranger which kind of fills her scars slowly and finally takes her out of that deep dark space of her. Those letters brings a ray of hope in Rachel's life.
🎐This is a romance novel with touch of elements like mystery, suspence and thrill.
🎐This story is amazingly crafted with lot of twists and turns. The author has maintained the suspence all throughout the story. Narration is lucid and impressive.
🎐Also the cover of the book looks quite engaging to the eyes.
🎐But the only thing which I felt off about this story is the title of the book which is about the secret letters, that should be the star of the book but the mention about these letters seems to happen quite late in the plot.
🎀Rating - 4/5⭐
🎐Anyone who is a fan of romance thriller can pick this book. They will definitely enjoy it.
by 𝐓𝐚𝐫𝐲𝐧 𝐋𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡
🎐The story revolves around the protagonist, Rachel, a simple girl and a psychotherpist by profession. She had a dearest best friend, named Amelia with whom she can talk for hours and hours about important and random stuffs. She was in a relationship from past 11 years with a guy named Will.
🎐The book takes us back to the time of 12 years ago when Rachel was attacked in her Prom night. But she was able to escape it with the help of a stranger.
🎐That incident scarred her soul in an irreparable way. This created a small, dark room in her life in which she was stuck for ever, never able to overcome that incident actually and live freely.
🎐She was a happy bubbly girl on outside but inside she was full of voids and dissapoinment.
🎐All of a sudden, she started recieving anonymous letter from that stranger which kind of fills her scars slowly and finally takes her out of that deep dark space of her. Those letters brings a ray of hope in Rachel's life.
🎐This is a romance novel with touch of elements like mystery, suspence and thrill.
🎐This story is amazingly crafted with lot of twists and turns. The author has maintained the suspence all throughout the story. Narration is lucid and impressive.
🎐Also the cover of the book looks quite engaging to the eyes.
🎐But the only thing which I felt off about this story is the title of the book which is about the secret letters, that should be the star of the book but the mention about these letters seems to happen quite late in the plot.
🎀Rating - 4/5⭐
🎐Anyone who is a fan of romance thriller can pick this book. They will definitely enjoy it.
July 21, 2021
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭 𝐋𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
by 𝐓𝐚𝐫𝐲𝐧 𝐋𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡
🎐The story revolves around the protagonist, Rachel, a simple girl and a psychotherpist by profession. She had a dearest best friend, named Amelia with whom she can talk for hours and hours about important and random stuffs. She was in a relationship from past 11 years with a guy named Will.
🎐The book takes us back to the time of 12 years ago when Rachel was attacked in her Prom night. But she was able to escape it with the help of a stranger.
🎐That incident scarred her soul in an irreparable way. This created a small, dark room in her life in which she was stuck for ever, never able to overcome that incident actually and live freely.
🎐She was a happy bubbly girl on outside but inside she was full of voids and dissapoinment.
🎐All of a sudden, she started recieving anonymous letter from that stranger which kind of fills her scars slowly and finally takes her out of that deep dark space of her. Those letters brings a ray of hope in Rachel's life.
🎐This is a romance novel with touch of elements like mystery, suspence and thrill.
🎐This story is amazingly crafted with lot of twists and turns. The author has maintained the suspence all throughout the story. Narration is lucid and impressive.
🎐Also the cover of the book looks quite engaging to the eyes.
🎐But the only thing which I felt off about this story is the title of the book which is about the secret letters, that should be the star of the book but the mention about these letters seems to happen quite late in the plot.
🎀Rating - 4/5⭐
🎐Anyone who is a fan of romance thriller can pick this book. They will definitely enjoy it.
by 𝐓𝐚𝐫𝐲𝐧 𝐋𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡
🎐The story revolves around the protagonist, Rachel, a simple girl and a psychotherpist by profession. She had a dearest best friend, named Amelia with whom she can talk for hours and hours about important and random stuffs. She was in a relationship from past 11 years with a guy named Will.
🎐The book takes us back to the time of 12 years ago when Rachel was attacked in her Prom night. But she was able to escape it with the help of a stranger.
🎐That incident scarred her soul in an irreparable way. This created a small, dark room in her life in which she was stuck for ever, never able to overcome that incident actually and live freely.
🎐She was a happy bubbly girl on outside but inside she was full of voids and dissapoinment.
🎐All of a sudden, she started recieving anonymous letter from that stranger which kind of fills her scars slowly and finally takes her out of that deep dark space of her. Those letters brings a ray of hope in Rachel's life.
🎐This is a romance novel with touch of elements like mystery, suspence and thrill.
🎐This story is amazingly crafted with lot of twists and turns. The author has maintained the suspence all throughout the story. Narration is lucid and impressive.
🎐Also the cover of the book looks quite engaging to the eyes.
🎐But the only thing which I felt off about this story is the title of the book which is about the secret letters, that should be the star of the book but the mention about these letters seems to happen quite late in the plot.
🎀Rating - 4/5⭐
🎐Anyone who is a fan of romance thriller can pick this book. They will definitely enjoy it.
August 13, 2020
First, I want to thank Taryn Leigh and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with this book so I can bring you this review!
WOW!! What a book!! Taryn Leigh pulls on so many emotions in The Secret Letters! She pulls you in so many directions with the attack, reunions, betrayal, secret admirers, lots of mystery and suspense. There is literally something for everyone in The Secret Letters. It is one book that will leave an impacting impression on you.
This book is dedicated to Alshandra whose own story inspired this story, and her kindness brought restoration to my own.
Taryn touch’s on some very important topics such as Bipolarism, sexual assault and stalking.
Taryn’s prologue was incredibly intense and had me glued to my Kindle. Her description of the attack was so detailed, descriptive, and brought out every emotion Rachel was going through! I felt as I was inside the book watching it unfold! She is an extremely gifted writer in this genre.
Taryn wrote this prologue for D. Momple. It tells the story of how one act of kindness saved someone’s life. She thanks you for allowing God to use you in my own life.
The friendship between Mr. Lemon and Rachel were incredibly sweet in how they helped eachother. It was one of my favorite storylines.
Many times I cracked up laughing as there were some comical scenes thrown in.
The About The Book section and how this story came about really pulled on my heartstrings! I wanted to give Alshandra a comforting hug for all she went through.
WOW!! What a book!! Taryn Leigh pulls on so many emotions in The Secret Letters! She pulls you in so many directions with the attack, reunions, betrayal, secret admirers, lots of mystery and suspense. There is literally something for everyone in The Secret Letters. It is one book that will leave an impacting impression on you.
This book is dedicated to Alshandra whose own story inspired this story, and her kindness brought restoration to my own.
Taryn touch’s on some very important topics such as Bipolarism, sexual assault and stalking.
Taryn’s prologue was incredibly intense and had me glued to my Kindle. Her description of the attack was so detailed, descriptive, and brought out every emotion Rachel was going through! I felt as I was inside the book watching it unfold! She is an extremely gifted writer in this genre.
Taryn wrote this prologue for D. Momple. It tells the story of how one act of kindness saved someone’s life. She thanks you for allowing God to use you in my own life.
The friendship between Mr. Lemon and Rachel were incredibly sweet in how they helped eachother. It was one of my favorite storylines.
Many times I cracked up laughing as there were some comical scenes thrown in.
The About The Book section and how this story came about really pulled on my heartstrings! I wanted to give Alshandra a comforting hug for all she went through.
September 6, 2020
I gave this a 4 stars or 8/10.
My thanks to TBConFB reviewer group for a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
When Rachel suffers an attack at the hands of an assailant and is saved by a faceless stranger, it takes her a while to come to terms with what has happened and try to put things behind her and move on with her life. She decides to use her experience to her advantage and becomes a psychologist aiming to help others that have suffered and are coming to terms with their problems.
When tragedy strikes a second time and she is struggling to cope, she finds some help from her boyfriend Will's older brother Ruari. As things become a little blurred around the edges for Rachel and her life appears to be in tatters. She begins to receive a series of anonymous letters always signed Love x. The letters begin to give her some hope and encourage her to take control of her life again.
As Rachel begins to take back control of her life, Ruari always seems to be there and it's her boyfriend Will that should be there for her, not his older brother.
Will Rachel ever find out the identity of the anonymous letter writer or will he/she remain forever hidden?
This is the first book that I have read by this Author and it was an enjoyable read. A little predictable in places, but this didn't in any way spoil my enjoyment of it at all. I enjoyed the writing style and the story had me hooked from the start. I am not sure what genre I would put it in, maybe suspenseful romance as it was a cross between a soft thriller and a romance.
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