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The Secrets of Us
Dangerously addictive, The Secrets of Us is a pulse-pounding exploration of a disturbed psyche and the bond between two sisters desperate to escape a troubled past.
Foster sisters Krystal and Nichole have always been there for each other, so when Nichole is committed to a psychiatric hospital after trying to kill her husband, Krystal drops everything to defend her.
Scarred by a hard upbringing, Nichole and Krystal managed to construct comfortable lives for themselves. Krystal became a respected lawyer, and Nichole was happily married to an architect—until Nichole starts raving that her husband isn’t her husband, believing that he’s an imposter.
Driven by fierce loyalty, Krystal starts asking questions, but she’s not sure she can bear the answers. Her investigation leads to the sisters’ dark shared past…to a horrible tragedy and a well-guarded lie that cemented their sisterly bond.
But that lie can’t kill the truth—the battered, gasping, clawing truth that’s coming for them both. Now Krystal and Nichole must both fight for the lives they’ve built before they’re consumed by the one they left behind.
Foster sisters Krystal and Nichole have always been there for each other, so when Nichole is committed to a psychiatric hospital after trying to kill her husband, Krystal drops everything to defend her.
Scarred by a hard upbringing, Nichole and Krystal managed to construct comfortable lives for themselves. Krystal became a respected lawyer, and Nichole was happily married to an architect—until Nichole starts raving that her husband isn’t her husband, believing that he’s an imposter.
Driven by fierce loyalty, Krystal starts asking questions, but she’s not sure she can bear the answers. Her investigation leads to the sisters’ dark shared past…to a horrible tragedy and a well-guarded lie that cemented their sisterly bond.
But that lie can’t kill the truth—the battered, gasping, clawing truth that’s coming for them both. Now Krystal and Nichole must both fight for the lives they’ve built before they’re consumed by the one they left behind.
271 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2021
9401 people are currently reading
54304 people want to read
About the author
Lucinda Berry
30 books21.7k followersUSA Today bestselling author Lucinda Berry is a former psychologist and leading researcher in childhood trauma. She’s written multiple bestsellers reaching millions of readers worldwide. Some of her bestselling works include The Perfect Child, Saving Noah, When She Returned, The Best of Friends, and Keep Your Friends Close. Her books have been optioned for film and translated into several languages.
If Berry isn’t chasing after her son, you can find her running through Los Angeles, prepping for her next marathon. To hear about her upcoming releases and other author news, visit her on social media (@lucindaberryauthor) or sign up for her newsletter at https://lucindaberry.com.
If Berry isn’t chasing after her son, you can find her running through Los Angeles, prepping for her next marathon. To hear about her upcoming releases and other author news, visit her on social media (@lucindaberryauthor) or sign up for her newsletter at https://lucindaberry.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,310 reviews
February 5, 2023
Secrets. Trauma. Lies.
Krystal and Nicole are foster sisters who formed their own family unit soon after they met. From a young age, they have always been there for each other. That does not change when Nicole is committed to a psychiatric hospital after trying to kill her husband, Aiden. Krystal cannot believe it. Nicole and Aiden were the perfect couple. She even went on weekend trips with them. Wouldn't she know if they were having problems? Her sister told her everything, didn't she? Desperate to help her sister she is determined to get answers.
As Krystal searches for the truth of what happened that pivotal night, she learns that her sister and her husband had secrets. Who doesn’t? She and Nicole had their secrets as well. But her sister, who appeared so happy is now experiencing what appears to be a psychotic break.
The book is told through alternating past and present chapters. As their past life in foster care is laid bare, we see how their bond was formed, the life they led, and a childhood tragedy which affected Nicole deeply.
Lucinda Berry is a former clinical psychologist who also was a leading researcher in childhood trauma and utilizes her knowledge in writing her books. She can delve into her character's psyche and accurately describe symptoms, treatment, use diagnostic terms and diagnosis in her books.
I found the book to be well written and expertly crafted plot. I really enjoyed how the past and present chapters provided insight. We see how tragedy, trauma and secrets can affect someone.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Krystal and Nicole are foster sisters who formed their own family unit soon after they met. From a young age, they have always been there for each other. That does not change when Nicole is committed to a psychiatric hospital after trying to kill her husband, Aiden. Krystal cannot believe it. Nicole and Aiden were the perfect couple. She even went on weekend trips with them. Wouldn't she know if they were having problems? Her sister told her everything, didn't she? Desperate to help her sister she is determined to get answers.
As Krystal searches for the truth of what happened that pivotal night, she learns that her sister and her husband had secrets. Who doesn’t? She and Nicole had their secrets as well. But her sister, who appeared so happy is now experiencing what appears to be a psychotic break.
The book is told through alternating past and present chapters. As their past life in foster care is laid bare, we see how their bond was formed, the life they led, and a childhood tragedy which affected Nicole deeply.
Lucinda Berry is a former clinical psychologist who also was a leading researcher in childhood trauma and utilizes her knowledge in writing her books. She can delve into her character's psyche and accurately describe symptoms, treatment, use diagnostic terms and diagnosis in her books.
I found the book to be well written and expertly crafted plot. I really enjoyed how the past and present chapters provided insight. We see how tragedy, trauma and secrets can affect someone.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
June 15, 2021
Lucinda Berry does it again! Here we have another twisty-turny thriller from one of my favorite authors of the genre.
One word to describe this book: Baffling!
I had no idea what was going on for about 70% of the book.
Nichole and Krystal are foster sisters and best friends. They put their hard life behind them and have garnered secure futures for themselves. Nichole is a happily married school teacher and Krystal is a practicing lawyer.
Imagine Krystal's surprise when she gets a call that not only did her sisters house burn down but her husband, Aiden, was barricaded inside. When authorities arrive on scene they find Nichole dancing around the yard. When they try to apprehend her she fights them with all the strength she has and she lands herself in the psychiatric ward.
Krystal rushes to be by her side to figure out what has happened but is bowled over by her sisters appearance and demeanor. In an effort to calm her she is able to hear something to make her pause. Aiden isn't Aiden, he's a murderer.
That's the gist and to say more will spoil future readers. The chapters alternate from their past living on a farm with their foster family and to the present with Krystal trying to figure out what the heck is going on. Another solid addition to the genre. The ending has me torn. I loved part of it but I also disliked another part of it. 4 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for my copy.
One word to describe this book: Baffling!
I had no idea what was going on for about 70% of the book.
Nichole and Krystal are foster sisters and best friends. They put their hard life behind them and have garnered secure futures for themselves. Nichole is a happily married school teacher and Krystal is a practicing lawyer.
Imagine Krystal's surprise when she gets a call that not only did her sisters house burn down but her husband, Aiden, was barricaded inside. When authorities arrive on scene they find Nichole dancing around the yard. When they try to apprehend her she fights them with all the strength she has and she lands herself in the psychiatric ward.
Krystal rushes to be by her side to figure out what has happened but is bowled over by her sisters appearance and demeanor. In an effort to calm her she is able to hear something to make her pause. Aiden isn't Aiden, he's a murderer.
That's the gist and to say more will spoil future readers. The chapters alternate from their past living on a farm with their foster family and to the present with Krystal trying to figure out what the heck is going on. Another solid addition to the genre. The ending has me torn. I loved part of it but I also disliked another part of it. 4 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for my copy.
June 17, 2021
3.5 stars
It was extremely interesting that the author of this book Dr Lucinda Berry was for a time a clinical psychologist, specializing in childhood trauma. She is well equipped to write of the characters Nichole and Krystal and the traumas the girls faced both in their young lives living as foster children in a home which was not loving but cold and demanding.
As they grew, the girls, who always felt like sisters even though they were not blood relatives, managed to achieve both prestige and success. Kyrstal becomes a lawyer while Nichole married a man who adored her, an architect, and her life seemed idyllic.
However, horrific instances of the past come back to haunt both ladies and seem to be even more prevalent in Nicole, as she experiences what appears to be psychotic episodes. These episodes seem to be triggered by her husband and because of her behavior and trying to burn down her home with her husband in it, Nichole is brought to a mental hospital where her behavior spirals out of control.
The question is who is responsible for this behavior? Is the husband all he seems to be, and is Krystal able to protect a sister who she loves and has a close affinity for?
While there are a few holes in the plot, the story does deliver a quick read and a definite look into the concept of a person's mental state brought on by a childhood trauma they can't seem to forget.
Thank you to Lucinda Berry, Thomas and Mercer, and NetGalley for a copy of this psychological thriller.
It was extremely interesting that the author of this book Dr Lucinda Berry was for a time a clinical psychologist, specializing in childhood trauma. She is well equipped to write of the characters Nichole and Krystal and the traumas the girls faced both in their young lives living as foster children in a home which was not loving but cold and demanding.
As they grew, the girls, who always felt like sisters even though they were not blood relatives, managed to achieve both prestige and success. Kyrstal becomes a lawyer while Nichole married a man who adored her, an architect, and her life seemed idyllic.
However, horrific instances of the past come back to haunt both ladies and seem to be even more prevalent in Nicole, as she experiences what appears to be psychotic episodes. These episodes seem to be triggered by her husband and because of her behavior and trying to burn down her home with her husband in it, Nichole is brought to a mental hospital where her behavior spirals out of control.
The question is who is responsible for this behavior? Is the husband all he seems to be, and is Krystal able to protect a sister who she loves and has a close affinity for?
While there are a few holes in the plot, the story does deliver a quick read and a definite look into the concept of a person's mental state brought on by a childhood trauma they can't seem to forget.
Thank you to Lucinda Berry, Thomas and Mercer, and NetGalley for a copy of this psychological thriller.
May 9, 2021
This book had potential, it had the recipe to keep me on the edge of my seat, however it just fell short at every single opportunity and all the reveals were flat and disappointing. The story felt simple and straightforward as there weren't enough variables, detail or tension to keep me engaged and create any impact.
Characters
Overall I didn’t love or hate any characters, they are quite simple. The only character that was really explored and I found somewhat interesting was Nichole as we learn about her traumatic past from her point of view and how it has affected her. Krystal, being the strong decisive sister, I did find her generic and unmemorable. We learn about Veronica and her mother through Nichole’s/Krystal’s point of view but there wasn’t enough detail about them to understand their character and behaviour and why they treated the sisters so poorly.
Outside of these 4 characters there was very little focus on the others and it was clear some were simply fillers. For example Whitney the school bully was so superficial and cliche. There was nothing memorable about the doctor, the detective or even Aiden! As Nichole’s husband and being involved in the fire I would’ve thought we’d learn more about him and his wealthy, powerful family but they were glossed over and so high level.
Plot and Progression
It started off strong with the mystery around the fire where Nichole is in hospital due to a psychotic episode and Aiden suffering from severe burns in ICU. I was hooked at the start and I was expecting lots of evidence and reveals but it only went downhill from there and never recovered.
The first portion of the past to set the scene of the sister’s hard upbringing was essentially schoolyard bullying. Krystal and Nichole were always wary of what Veronica would do to them, but it wasn’t dark or sinister enough to create any suspense or build up to the first incident. It was just boring. Although all the incidents created some excitement and tension, they’re glossed over and resolved very quickly, including the twist. The events leading up to the twist fell flat and there aren't many variables which didn’t leave much room to guess and be surprised. For example there are only a few characters to focus on and there was so little evidence or findings from the actual night of the fire
Overall this is a quick and easy read that I would not recommend as details are light, characters are unmemorable and disappointing twists.
Characters
Overall I didn’t love or hate any characters, they are quite simple. The only character that was really explored and I found somewhat interesting was Nichole as we learn about her traumatic past from her point of view and how it has affected her. Krystal, being the strong decisive sister, I did find her generic and unmemorable. We learn about Veronica and her mother through Nichole’s/Krystal’s point of view but there wasn’t enough detail about them to understand their character and behaviour and why they treated the sisters so poorly.
Outside of these 4 characters there was very little focus on the others and it was clear some were simply fillers. For example Whitney the school bully was so superficial and cliche. There was nothing memorable about the doctor, the detective or even Aiden! As Nichole’s husband and being involved in the fire I would’ve thought we’d learn more about him and his wealthy, powerful family but they were glossed over and so high level.
Plot and Progression
It started off strong with the mystery around the fire where Nichole is in hospital due to a psychotic episode and Aiden suffering from severe burns in ICU. I was hooked at the start and I was expecting lots of evidence and reveals but it only went downhill from there and never recovered.
The first portion of the past to set the scene of the sister’s hard upbringing was essentially schoolyard bullying. Krystal and Nichole were always wary of what Veronica would do to them, but it wasn’t dark or sinister enough to create any suspense or build up to the first incident. It was just boring. Although all the incidents created some excitement and tension, they’re glossed over and resolved very quickly, including the twist. The events leading up to the twist fell flat and there aren't many variables which didn’t leave much room to guess and be surprised. For example there are only a few characters to focus on and there was so little evidence or findings from the actual night of the fire
Overall this is a quick and easy read that I would not recommend as details are light, characters are unmemorable and disappointing twists.
June 25, 2021
3.5 stars
I was looking forward to this audiobook after reading the description and many positive reviews. I also really enjoyed the author's previous novel "The Best of Friends".
Krystal is in court when her cell phone starts vibrating against her leg. After ten minutes of continuous ringing she finally gives in and asks the judge for a short recess. The call is from Krystal's assistant, Theresa. She tells Krystal that her sister, Nichole is at the hospital after a fire at her home the previous evening. She says that Nichole is not hurt. She got out of the house in time. Unfortunately, Nichole's husband, Aiden wasn't as lucky. He's in intensive care fighting for his life. While Nichole isn't physically hurt, they have still admitted her. They haven't admitted her to the main hospital like, Aiden. She's in Riverside East which is the psychiatric section of the hospital.
Apparently, Nichole is in a comprised mental state and the doctors want to speak with Krystal as soon as possible. Krystal's head is spinning. If Nichole's not injured, why would they need someone to help make medical decisions for her?
"It's because of the charges they might file against her."
Charges? What could they possibly be charging her sister with? None of this makes sense. Unfortunately, things are about to get much worse.
This was a gripping and exciting audiobook!
I've noticed that lately it's been taking me longer to get into many of the books I am reading or listening to. However, I was pulled into this story right from the start. The bond between these main characters was strong and I enjoyed hearing from both of them.
This was a twisty read and I was all over the place with my guesses. I wanted to know what happened and how things were going to turn out so I listened almost constantly. To be honest, at first I was shocked at how the story ended. It didn't ruin the story, but it was puzzling. Of course, this is just my opinion. Others may see things differently.
Other than my issue with the ending, I thought this was a very good read. A great story with excellent narration. Both narrators were perfect for this novel.
Now that I have enjoyed two of this author's novels, I'm definitely looking forward to reading more.
November 12, 2021
Hunka Munka.......This one has quite the bite.
The Secrets of Us takes us over the mountain and through the woods to a tilted place of existence. You'll be scratching your head, shifting in your seat, and re-reading passages that shout WooWoo Land.
Let's be clear. Lucinda Berry is a certified psychologist in real life. She's walked the narrow highways of the minds of patients suffering from psychosis. Quite frankly, I got lost in those dark corners thinking that this was a bit over the top. Perhaps not, when you are eye to eye with life in another lane on a regular basis.
Lucinda Berry introduces us to two sisters, Krystal and Nichole. They've been living in a foster home on a farm in Iowa since they were young girls. Enter Mrs. Wheeler and her lovely daughter, Veronica. Said sisters are relegated to farm chores from the time that they get up in the morning until they go to bed. The rules of this household are embedded in their minds. I was a bit turned off by the tedious farm story......until we trip over a horrible tragedy that occurs on this farm. We will come to know that this incident will scar these girls for life.
Berry flips this storyline from chapters entitled: Then and Now. The present finds Krystal working as an attorney in Family Law. Nichole has become a high school history teacher married to Aidan, a successful architect from a wealthy family. Nichole and Aidan seem to have a wonderful marriage and life in which they invite Krystal to accompany them on trips and be part of their family.
Remember that bus ticket we have for WooWoo Land? We've now boarded that bus.
Krystal receives a phone call informing her that there has been a fire at her sister's home. Aidan was seriously injured and is in intensive care at the hospital. But Nichole? She was seen dancing on the front lawn oblivious to the fire burning behind her. Nichole has slipped down a very dark, dark tunnel. She is no longer lucid. Next stop: Psychiatric Ward.
Hereafter, Krystal will be in the fight of her life defending her sister. What happened to Nichole so suddenly that the bottom fell out from under her? Krystal is beyond perplexed. They've drugged Nichole to keep her from being violent. It's like someone flipped a switch here.
Say no more. Not gonna give anything away at this point. Get your ticket punched and buckle up.
The Secrets of Us takes us over the mountain and through the woods to a tilted place of existence. You'll be scratching your head, shifting in your seat, and re-reading passages that shout WooWoo Land.
Let's be clear. Lucinda Berry is a certified psychologist in real life. She's walked the narrow highways of the minds of patients suffering from psychosis. Quite frankly, I got lost in those dark corners thinking that this was a bit over the top. Perhaps not, when you are eye to eye with life in another lane on a regular basis.
Lucinda Berry introduces us to two sisters, Krystal and Nichole. They've been living in a foster home on a farm in Iowa since they were young girls. Enter Mrs. Wheeler and her lovely daughter, Veronica. Said sisters are relegated to farm chores from the time that they get up in the morning until they go to bed. The rules of this household are embedded in their minds. I was a bit turned off by the tedious farm story......until we trip over a horrible tragedy that occurs on this farm. We will come to know that this incident will scar these girls for life.
Berry flips this storyline from chapters entitled: Then and Now. The present finds Krystal working as an attorney in Family Law. Nichole has become a high school history teacher married to Aidan, a successful architect from a wealthy family. Nichole and Aidan seem to have a wonderful marriage and life in which they invite Krystal to accompany them on trips and be part of their family.
Remember that bus ticket we have for WooWoo Land? We've now boarded that bus.
Krystal receives a phone call informing her that there has been a fire at her sister's home. Aidan was seriously injured and is in intensive care at the hospital. But Nichole? She was seen dancing on the front lawn oblivious to the fire burning behind her. Nichole has slipped down a very dark, dark tunnel. She is no longer lucid. Next stop: Psychiatric Ward.
Hereafter, Krystal will be in the fight of her life defending her sister. What happened to Nichole so suddenly that the bottom fell out from under her? Krystal is beyond perplexed. They've drugged Nichole to keep her from being violent. It's like someone flipped a switch here.
Say no more. Not gonna give anything away at this point. Get your ticket punched and buckle up.
March 13, 2022
Not a fast paced thriller but more along the lines of character development and truth coming out. I enjoyed the book it kept me interested as I enjoyed the characters so it wasn't a bad go!
February 22, 2025
Predictable and most of the twists were revealed. So nothing really shocked me. TBH just skip this one not worth it in my opinion
June 30, 2021
This was a unique and interesting character study of two foster sisters with a dark past that is slowly revealed by alternate narrators throughout the book. The sisters, Krystal and Nichole, are now adults, and one of them stands accused of a terrible crime, and appears to be too hot of her mind. Juvenile records are sealed, so perhaps no one will ever know about the other terrible incidents in the girls’ past….
I would not say this is one of those fast-paced, read-in-three-hours domestic thrillers. Rather, this is a character-driven story. If you like the characters, which I did very much, you’ll be interested in the story, which has a lot to do with mental illness and goats of the past. I myself like a “whydunit” just as much or more as a “whodunit,” and this book has aspects of both.
Lucinda Berry is a writer I enjoy. She creates multidimensional characters and her books tend more towards the drama than the twist-a-minute thriller, but she delivers a great final twist here. Also, she’s such a great writer that she kept me engaged in the interesting minds of both the female characters, and I was intrigued to read about them both as adults and as children.
Four plus stars for this engaging read. Many thanks to Thomas and Mercer, the author, and NetGalley for the ARC of this interesting character-driven tale.
I would not say this is one of those fast-paced, read-in-three-hours domestic thrillers. Rather, this is a character-driven story. If you like the characters, which I did very much, you’ll be interested in the story, which has a lot to do with mental illness and goats of the past. I myself like a “whydunit” just as much or more as a “whodunit,” and this book has aspects of both.
Lucinda Berry is a writer I enjoy. She creates multidimensional characters and her books tend more towards the drama than the twist-a-minute thriller, but she delivers a great final twist here. Also, she’s such a great writer that she kept me engaged in the interesting minds of both the female characters, and I was intrigued to read about them both as adults and as children.
Four plus stars for this engaging read. Many thanks to Thomas and Mercer, the author, and NetGalley for the ARC of this interesting character-driven tale.
May 31, 2021
I’m such a fan of this author, she writes really smart psychological thrillers and as a psychologist herself she provides such a fascinating insight into her books. She has a knack for getting deep inside her characters minds and psyches that really allows for a very interesting reading experience. If you like psychological thrillers with an emphasis on the psychological aspect you have to check out her books.
This flips from the present day and Krystal’s viewpoint to the past in Nichole’s POV. Both timelines were great and super interesting for me, both women had an incredibly rough childhood and seeing how their bond in the past informed their present day relationship was fascinating for me. As the book nears the finish line I was totally caught up in this dark story of loyalty and how tragic events can bond people in an unbreakable way. Definitely recommended as a fast paced and engaging read.
This flips from the present day and Krystal’s viewpoint to the past in Nichole’s POV. Both timelines were great and super interesting for me, both women had an incredibly rough childhood and seeing how their bond in the past informed their present day relationship was fascinating for me. As the book nears the finish line I was totally caught up in this dark story of loyalty and how tragic events can bond people in an unbreakable way. Definitely recommended as a fast paced and engaging read.
July 12, 2024
this was such an entertaining read and lucinda berry's writing style had me hooked. i just wish the plot twists shocked me a bit more 😭 i loved the bond between the sisters, it was so sweet 🥹 overall, it was a great read but it could've been more 'thrilling' 💀
pre-read review!!
br with liyah 💘 so excited to read this one, i haven't read a thriller in ages
pre-read review!!
br with liyah 💘 so excited to read this one, i haven't read a thriller in ages
February 19, 2024
Yes yes YES to this. 4.5⭐️
This story was fantastic; I really felt I understood why each character made certain choices. Brilliant backstories, routed in facts. Love the way it played out too…
5 stars for the audio too 🎧
This story was fantastic; I really felt I understood why each character made certain choices. Brilliant backstories, routed in facts. Love the way it played out too…
5 stars for the audio too 🎧
October 4, 2021
Audio - 5 Stars
Story - 4 Stars
Story - 4 Stars
June 10, 2023
I read Lucinda Berry's book, The Perfect Child, last week and LOVED it. To the point that despite owning a used bookstore with 25,000 other books, I still requested this one from the library because I was dying to read another one of hers. Should not have wasted my time. There was nothing special, interesting, or thrilling about this story, the characters, or the writing. I'm really hoping this book was an anomaly.
2.5 stars rounded down
2.5 stars rounded down
February 1, 2022
*Changing my review to 3.5 stars*
THE PLOT
Krystal and Nichole are foster sister that made it out the mud; Krystal is now a baddie lawyer, and Nichole is booed up with a rich architect. But one day Krystal learns Nichole has flown the cuckoo nest and tried to set her husband on fire because she believes he's an imposter. Krystal to the rescue! She drops everything to figure out what happened to Nichole and if anything she's saying is true.
MY OPINNI
I would give the writing 4 out of 5 stars, but the ending and small details that didn't make sense knocked the overall rating to a 3.5. I've read other Lucinda Berry novels; her plots are always interesting and well-executed.
The novel alternates between flashbacks and current happenings, which leaves you guessing on two fronts: what happened in the past and what's happening to Nichole now. I guessed Nichole's husband was up to no good because men are always shady, but the way it all came together was a lil too much. I know this genre asks you to look beyond the plausible, but this one was too unbelievable and the ending was chaotic (not in a good way).
I mentioned that some of the small details bothered me; you might be wondering, who cares if they're small? But they were so blatantly wrong, it looked careless on behalf of the author, the editor, the publisher, and everyone in between who laid eyes on this book before publication. It's not that deep, but since I do this for a living, it stuck out for me. For example, Krystal graduating college and immediately becoming a lawyer at 22 had me like PAUSE. Was this one of those 2 yrs of undergrad, 3 yrs of law school fast track programs?
Also, I find Lucinda particularly skilled at writing child POVs (a nod to her professional background). But, in some spots, I found that Lucinda used that same child "voice" for a 17-year-old, which threw me off a bit.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: Good writing quality, interesting storyline, kept me guessing until the end
Cons: Anti-climatic ending (both villains were doing entirely too much), small details didn't make sense and caused me to lose focus because the math wasn't mathin
THE PLOT
Krystal and Nichole are foster sister that made it out the mud; Krystal is now a baddie lawyer, and Nichole is booed up with a rich architect. But one day Krystal learns Nichole has flown the cuckoo nest and tried to set her husband on fire because she believes he's an imposter. Krystal to the rescue! She drops everything to figure out what happened to Nichole and if anything she's saying is true.
MY OPINNI
I would give the writing 4 out of 5 stars, but the ending and small details that didn't make sense knocked the overall rating to a 3.5. I've read other Lucinda Berry novels; her plots are always interesting and well-executed.
The novel alternates between flashbacks and current happenings, which leaves you guessing on two fronts: what happened in the past and what's happening to Nichole now. I guessed Nichole's husband was up to no good because men are always shady, but the way it all came together was a lil too much. I know this genre asks you to look beyond the plausible, but this one was too unbelievable and the ending was chaotic (not in a good way).
I mentioned that some of the small details bothered me; you might be wondering, who cares if they're small? But they were so blatantly wrong, it looked careless on behalf of the author, the editor, the publisher, and everyone in between who laid eyes on this book before publication. It's not that deep, but since I do this for a living, it stuck out for me. For example, Krystal graduating college and immediately becoming a lawyer at 22 had me like PAUSE. Was this one of those 2 yrs of undergrad, 3 yrs of law school fast track programs?
Also, I find Lucinda particularly skilled at writing child POVs (a nod to her professional background). But, in some spots, I found that Lucinda used that same child "voice" for a 17-year-old, which threw me off a bit.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: Good writing quality, interesting storyline, kept me guessing until the end
Cons: Anti-climatic ending (both villains were doing entirely too much), small details didn't make sense and caused me to lose focus because the math wasn't mathin
June 14, 2021
After a compelling start, this psychological thriller quickly fell into a "roll my eyes, shake my head but power through it" narrative of melodrama.
Two women who were foster sisters lived through some bad experiences as teenagers. After they escaped, one became a family court attorney and the other married the man of her dreams. So what compelled Nichole to set her house on fire and trap her husband behind a desk in their bedroom? Krystal tries to unravel the night in question and finds that Nichole is more than seriously disturbed.
This story is told in a "then" and "now" format with Krystal taking the voice on the current situation and Nichole relating the past portions. I immediately did not care for either of the sisters and I guess I just don't deal well with the explanations and excuses for who they are as adults. I couldn't buy into the whole premise nor muster up much sympathy or concern for the pair. There's not much to be said about other characters in the book who are completely flat stereotypes.
The whole event surrounding the fire and the explanations of Nichole's descent into drug-induced madness really disappointed me because I understand this author is a psychologist. All the voices in the head stuff just pushed me beyond my ability to suspend disbelief that her psychosis hadn't rendered her institutionalized long ago. There's no suspense, there's no big twisty anything that brings this to a recommendation level. I was happy when it was over.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this e-book ARC to read and review. I've read a couple of this author's other books that I liked much better so I may give her next one another shot but this is one I should have missed.
Two women who were foster sisters lived through some bad experiences as teenagers. After they escaped, one became a family court attorney and the other married the man of her dreams. So what compelled Nichole to set her house on fire and trap her husband behind a desk in their bedroom? Krystal tries to unravel the night in question and finds that Nichole is more than seriously disturbed.
This story is told in a "then" and "now" format with Krystal taking the voice on the current situation and Nichole relating the past portions. I immediately did not care for either of the sisters and I guess I just don't deal well with the explanations and excuses for who they are as adults. I couldn't buy into the whole premise nor muster up much sympathy or concern for the pair. There's not much to be said about other characters in the book who are completely flat stereotypes.
The whole event surrounding the fire and the explanations of Nichole's descent into drug-induced madness really disappointed me because I understand this author is a psychologist. All the voices in the head stuff just pushed me beyond my ability to suspend disbelief that her psychosis hadn't rendered her institutionalized long ago. There's no suspense, there's no big twisty anything that brings this to a recommendation level. I was happy when it was over.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this e-book ARC to read and review. I've read a couple of this author's other books that I liked much better so I may give her next one another shot but this is one I should have missed.
June 27, 2022
This book started as a 4 🌟 read but by the end it deflated like a balloon. The writing was great as usual but I expected alot more from the plot. The end could've explained things alot further. It was anti-climactic and unsatisfactory. It had a lot of potential but it sort of fizzled as we approached the end.
October 14, 2021
My second Lucinda Berry book, my second 4 ⭐ read. I'm a fan!
If you read this book, be prepared to set aside a few hours because once you start it, you won't want to put it down. The twists start right away and don't let up until the last page! Two foster sisters, Nicole and Krystal, have had only each other to rely on since they were both young when they met in foster care. Krystal is now a successful lawyer, and Nichole is happily married to her dream husband, Aiden. Krystal couldn't be more shocked when she gets the call that Nichole is in the psych ward after attempting to burn down her house with Aiden barricaded inside. Krystal arrives at the hospital to find Nichole in a very bad way mentally. Nichole has always been a spectacular liar though - is she faking it all or has she truly gone mad? Good luck figuring it out. I went back and forth so many times that I started to feel crazy myself.
The POV goes from Krystal "now" to Nichole "then" when the sisters were in foster care. You find out that the girls are hiding a big secret from their childhood that Krystal is trying to protect at all cost, as it almost cost Nichole her sanity once before. This is one of the few books where I enjoyed both timelines equally. Each one leaves you with a cliffhanger at the end of every chapter before it switches back to the other timeline. I found myself empathizing with both Nichole and Krystal and the unbearable childhood they endured. They are both seriously flawed but they are ultimately both strong women characters, which I love, and which is so often lacking in the thriller genre. There are plenty of crazy twists and turns that kept me guessing, including one big one that changed the whole trajectory of the storyline. I will say that the ending was a bit of a letdown, as it left me with more than a few questions, which took away slightly from my overall experience.
Although I don't think this one is quite on par with "The Best of Friends," it is not far behind. I found it especially fascinating in light of the fact that Berry is a former clinical psychologist, and her author's note at the end sheds light on her experiences with childhood trauma and the ways it can manifest in adulthood. I cannot wait for whatever Lucinda Berry comes up with next! 4 stars.
If you read this book, be prepared to set aside a few hours because once you start it, you won't want to put it down. The twists start right away and don't let up until the last page! Two foster sisters, Nicole and Krystal, have had only each other to rely on since they were both young when they met in foster care. Krystal is now a successful lawyer, and Nichole is happily married to her dream husband, Aiden. Krystal couldn't be more shocked when she gets the call that Nichole is in the psych ward after attempting to burn down her house with Aiden barricaded inside. Krystal arrives at the hospital to find Nichole in a very bad way mentally. Nichole has always been a spectacular liar though - is she faking it all or has she truly gone mad? Good luck figuring it out. I went back and forth so many times that I started to feel crazy myself.
The POV goes from Krystal "now" to Nichole "then" when the sisters were in foster care. You find out that the girls are hiding a big secret from their childhood that Krystal is trying to protect at all cost, as it almost cost Nichole her sanity once before. This is one of the few books where I enjoyed both timelines equally. Each one leaves you with a cliffhanger at the end of every chapter before it switches back to the other timeline. I found myself empathizing with both Nichole and Krystal and the unbearable childhood they endured. They are both seriously flawed but they are ultimately both strong women characters, which I love, and which is so often lacking in the thriller genre. There are plenty of crazy twists and turns that kept me guessing, including one big one that changed the whole trajectory of the storyline. I will say that the ending was a bit of a letdown, as it left me with more than a few questions, which took away slightly from my overall experience.
Although I don't think this one is quite on par with "The Best of Friends," it is not far behind. I found it especially fascinating in light of the fact that Berry is a former clinical psychologist, and her author's note at the end sheds light on her experiences with childhood trauma and the ways it can manifest in adulthood. I cannot wait for whatever Lucinda Berry comes up with next! 4 stars.
May 5, 2021
4.5 ⭐️ Lucinda Berry is fast becoming one of my favourite authors to turn to when I’m looking for “a read in one sitting book kinda of book”. She writes fascinating stories about ordinary people thrust into the most harrowing situations. The Secrets Of Us is a disturbing psychological thriller that blurs the line between fiction and non-fiction. If like me your curious why people behave the way they do, and how childhood trauma can impact on someone’s life as an adult, then this book is unquestionably one for you. The author’s latest offering is a hard-hitting, heartbreaking story of foster sisters Krystal and Nichole, who share a tragic background and an unbreakable bond. When Nichole is committed to a psychiatric hospital after trying to kill her husband, Krystal drops everything to defend her.
The authors take’s the reader on a dark and grim journey into the dark recesses of Nichole’s psyche, it’s disturbing but all too convincing. The burning question and one that urges the reader onwards is “what events in Nicole’s past have caused her mental state to deteriorate so badly?” Berry has created two compelling female protagonists that earn the reader’s sympathy from the onset. As the author slowly reveals the sisters’ troubled past, and the secrets and lies that have laid buried for so long, the story takes a disturbing and shocking turn. The Secrets Of Us is an intense psychological thriller with perfectly placed twist and turns that make this book such a gripping read. Highly recommended.
The authors take’s the reader on a dark and grim journey into the dark recesses of Nichole’s psyche, it’s disturbing but all too convincing. The burning question and one that urges the reader onwards is “what events in Nicole’s past have caused her mental state to deteriorate so badly?” Berry has created two compelling female protagonists that earn the reader’s sympathy from the onset. As the author slowly reveals the sisters’ troubled past, and the secrets and lies that have laid buried for so long, the story takes a disturbing and shocking turn. The Secrets Of Us is an intense psychological thriller with perfectly placed twist and turns that make this book such a gripping read. Highly recommended.
January 19, 2023
Nie wiem co myśleć o tej książce - oczywiście super mi się ją czytało jak każdą inną pozycje od Lucindy Berry, jednak to było coś innego niż dotychczas. Rozdziały z przeszłością były najlepsze, polecam tę książkę!
September 30, 2021
3.4⭐️ I enjoyed this one just felt like it ended abruptly we don’t really know what happens to h I hate when authors leave you to come to your own conclusion of what happens after. Also hate when books do a past and present.
September 12, 2024
An entertaining read, but will I remember it a year from now..........Definitely not .
May 5, 2021
I'm a massive fan of Lucinda Berry's work, her sharp plotting and intricate understanding of psychology always making for a suspenseful read that makes up for the occasionally stilted writing. This one was my least favourite so far though unfortunately. For all the usual sharpness in the pacing, it veered into melodramatic thriller territory towards the end and the whole thing hung on two narrators who lacked any particularly sympathetic qualities. I'll definitely read her future works but The Secrets of Us more often missed than hit.
September 4, 2021
Kept me reading until the end but it was ultimately choppy and unsatisfying.
June 8, 2021
4 stars
This is only my second Lucinda Berry novel I read and really liked The Best of Friends and have been looking forward to this story.
This story features foster sisters Krystal and Nicole who lived a troubled childhood and are closer than most biological sisters.
Story is told the POV of both and additionally goes back and forth between then and now.
They have a sad childhood raised by a foster mother who has a mean daughter who can do no wrong.
Krystal and Nicole have each other and are able to cope.
Present day story is when Nicole has gone off the rails and tried to murder her husband by blocking the door to the bedroom and setting the house on fire.
I read enough psychological stories to expect twists and turns but I love to try to figure them out.
This was a great read and had me curious every page.
Found myself saying: Wait! What?
Lucinda Berry does not disappoint!
Want to thank NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer ~ Thomas & #38; Mercer for this eGalley. This file has been made available to me for an honest professional review.
Pub Date was June 1, 2021
This is only my second Lucinda Berry novel I read and really liked The Best of Friends and have been looking forward to this story.
This story features foster sisters Krystal and Nicole who lived a troubled childhood and are closer than most biological sisters.
Story is told the POV of both and additionally goes back and forth between then and now.
They have a sad childhood raised by a foster mother who has a mean daughter who can do no wrong.
Krystal and Nicole have each other and are able to cope.
Present day story is when Nicole has gone off the rails and tried to murder her husband by blocking the door to the bedroom and setting the house on fire.
I read enough psychological stories to expect twists and turns but I love to try to figure them out.
This was a great read and had me curious every page.
Found myself saying: Wait! What?
Lucinda Berry does not disappoint!
Want to thank NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer ~ Thomas & #38; Mercer for this eGalley. This file has been made available to me for an honest professional review.
Pub Date was June 1, 2021
July 5, 2021
The Secrets of Us packs in all the essentials of a good thriller. It’s fast, well-written, with a smart plot, well-developed characters and the right amount of unpredictability.
It’s a story of two foster sisters, Krystal and Nichole, who are closer to each other than lot of biologically related siblings. Nichole is happily married to Aiden, and Krystal is a successful lawyer. But the perfect world falls apart when during Krystal receives a call informing her that Nichole is admitted to psychiatric ward after setting her own house on fire trapping her husband inside. The story unravels from here to find the answers to the whos, hows and whys. We get two simultaneous perspectives from Krystal and Nichole, first one from the present day after Nichole set her house on fire, and the second from the sisters’ teenage days in foster home. Berry uses her clinician background to the fullest in diving deep into reasons and effects of psychosis. I loved how much time this story spent on the motive of the crime or the reason behind Nichole’s breakdown.
The relationship between the two sisters is beautifully explored. Most of the characters have multiple dimensions, way beyond just good and evil. Every few chapters it takes a wild turn baffling the reader, but it never goes beyond believable. It shows the everlasting effects of childhood trauma and the burden of difficult secrets on human psyche. And it does all that in a quick-paced engaging story.
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It’s a story of two foster sisters, Krystal and Nichole, who are closer to each other than lot of biologically related siblings. Nichole is happily married to Aiden, and Krystal is a successful lawyer. But the perfect world falls apart when during Krystal receives a call informing her that Nichole is admitted to psychiatric ward after setting her own house on fire trapping her husband inside. The story unravels from here to find the answers to the whos, hows and whys. We get two simultaneous perspectives from Krystal and Nichole, first one from the present day after Nichole set her house on fire, and the second from the sisters’ teenage days in foster home. Berry uses her clinician background to the fullest in diving deep into reasons and effects of psychosis. I loved how much time this story spent on the motive of the crime or the reason behind Nichole’s breakdown.
The relationship between the two sisters is beautifully explored. Most of the characters have multiple dimensions, way beyond just good and evil. Every few chapters it takes a wild turn baffling the reader, but it never goes beyond believable. It shows the everlasting effects of childhood trauma and the burden of difficult secrets on human psyche. And it does all that in a quick-paced engaging story.
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 25, 2021
Wow! This was intense and totally different from "Best of Friends" I read earlier this year. The development of the characters and storyline in this book really grabbed my attention and held it tight until the very end. It was a winner!
November 26, 2022
not great, not terrible
i've read orse
bit far fetched, felt rushed at times, which in turn made it feel even more unrealistic
i've read orse
bit far fetched, felt rushed at times, which in turn made it feel even more unrealistic
August 15, 2024
First I've read of hers. Are they all this bad?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 7, 2021
This book got me from the first chapter. I couldn’t wait until I could find out how it was going to end. Then, it ended. In the most unsatisfactory way I’ve ever read. I was extremely disappointed. It just felt like the author got tired of reading and so she quit. Definitely disappointing and would not recommend.
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