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The Secret Within
need the two men sitting on the other side of the interview table to trust me. My family’s happiness is riding on my getting this job. I smile, knowing that first impressions are key. There’s no link between having a friendly face and being trustworthy, but humans are built to think there is. Even us doctors, who should know better.
If only I could keep my past secret from these men, but they’ll have read about me in the papers – the court case, the threats, the lies that were told. But what’s important now are my son and daughter: a new house, new school, a new start away from the city. Away from my ex, my old job… and the scandal that nearly ruined me.
What I don’t know yet is that if I convince them to hire me, I’ll be putting my children in terrible danger. I’m trying to make things right, but this is when it starts to go wrong.
And when one of my precious children goes missing, I’ll realise that the nightmare is far from over. In spite of everything I’ve gone through, I will fail to recognise the evils a friendly face can hide. Sometimes it’s the people who want to be closest to you that you should be most afraid of. They’re the ones who know your secrets. Who want to make you pay.
Utterly twisty and completely unputdownable. This insanely gripping page-turner from bestselling author Lucy Dawson is perfect for anyone who tore through Friend Request, Gone Girl or My Lovely Wife.
If only I could keep my past secret from these men, but they’ll have read about me in the papers – the court case, the threats, the lies that were told. But what’s important now are my son and daughter: a new house, new school, a new start away from the city. Away from my ex, my old job… and the scandal that nearly ruined me.
What I don’t know yet is that if I convince them to hire me, I’ll be putting my children in terrible danger. I’m trying to make things right, but this is when it starts to go wrong.
And when one of my precious children goes missing, I’ll realise that the nightmare is far from over. In spite of everything I’ve gone through, I will fail to recognise the evils a friendly face can hide. Sometimes it’s the people who want to be closest to you that you should be most afraid of. They’re the ones who know your secrets. Who want to make you pay.
Utterly twisty and completely unputdownable. This insanely gripping page-turner from bestselling author Lucy Dawson is perfect for anyone who tore through Friend Request, Gone Girl or My Lovely Wife.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 26, 2021
252 people are currently reading
514 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Dawson
26 books655 followersLucy studied Psychology at Warwick University before becoming a children’s magazine editor. Her first bestselling book – His Other Lover – was published in 2008. Since then she has published four other novels and her work has been translated into numerous other languages. She lives in Exeter with her husband and children. Lucy finds writing in the third person uncomfortable.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
May 8, 2021
Hmmm, what a roller coaster ride with so much impressive, whirlwind twists that you barely see them coming to fool you at least twice! Shame on me!
This book is great approach to the gender inequality at work: especially the women doctors’ problems: hypocrisy, mansplaining, extra patronizing, biased manners, unfair attitudes against the work ethics!
After being banned from the hospital she’s been working, Julia needed a clean slate with her educator husband , two kids by moving a new place, getting a new job! It seems like she made the right impression and affected the decision makers ( even though they were men, they seemed like easy going guys who don’t care her about the public humiliation she endured thanks to the media outlets’ vicious intrusion to her life! ) to give her a new job!
But now her kids are missing and wherever she goes her past never leaves her alone, dragging her into more trouble she can handle!
I mostly liked Frank as soon as I start reading his POV! He’s my favorite kind of crazy antihero and it was too much fun to see how he gets more unstable, freakier!
I enjoyed the gripping story but there are so many details slow down the pace especially Julia’s family parts and kids were unnecessarily long! This book could be more fast pacing, exciting, action packed, medical thriller meets domestic drama!
It’s still four starred twisty, surprising, jaw dropping read with original plot line but it could be five blazing starred thriller with lesser pages!
But I’m still happy this book put the author on my radar. I’m looking forward to read more works of the author!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for sharing this arc copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
This book is great approach to the gender inequality at work: especially the women doctors’ problems: hypocrisy, mansplaining, extra patronizing, biased manners, unfair attitudes against the work ethics!
After being banned from the hospital she’s been working, Julia needed a clean slate with her educator husband , two kids by moving a new place, getting a new job! It seems like she made the right impression and affected the decision makers ( even though they were men, they seemed like easy going guys who don’t care her about the public humiliation she endured thanks to the media outlets’ vicious intrusion to her life! ) to give her a new job!
But now her kids are missing and wherever she goes her past never leaves her alone, dragging her into more trouble she can handle!
I mostly liked Frank as soon as I start reading his POV! He’s my favorite kind of crazy antihero and it was too much fun to see how he gets more unstable, freakier!
I enjoyed the gripping story but there are so many details slow down the pace especially Julia’s family parts and kids were unnecessarily long! This book could be more fast pacing, exciting, action packed, medical thriller meets domestic drama!
It’s still four starred twisty, surprising, jaw dropping read with original plot line but it could be five blazing starred thriller with lesser pages!
But I’m still happy this book put the author on my radar. I’m looking forward to read more works of the author!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for sharing this arc copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
January 14, 2021
Julia Blythe is a plastic surgeon forced to leave her job following a much publicised whistle blowing case against male colleagues. To her surprise, she easily lands a job at Exeter Memorial Hospital and so the family relocate. Why do the surgeons want her there so badly especially Nathan Sloan? The story is told in alternating perspectives by Julia/Nathan and colleague Hamish which works well, providing good contrasting attitudes.
First of all, I really like the examination of gender roles in the workplace as a central theme. The characters of Nathan and Hamish are well portrayed in their creepy sleaziness and their attitudes to female members of staff especially those in a lesser role. Nathan is way too smooth an operator in a multitude of ways and it is interesting to see how female patients respond to this rather than the competent directness of female staff. There is plenty of underlying sexism in the hospital (who fetches the coffee?) as well as being evident in the surgeons marriages with some wives careers forgone. When it becomes apparent what some of the men are up to at the hospital it leaves a nasty taste in your mouth as their attitudes are simply appalling. They really do believe that surgeons are tinged with divinity. However, Nathan takes it to the next level, he’s obsessive, very controlling, extremely manipulative and immoral. His character is well portrayed though he makes your flesh crawl and it’s fair to say that the characterisation is a strong feature of the book. The author has clearly researched well as there’s a lot of detail about plastic surgery and I like how this becomes an intrinsic and integral part of the plot. The premise is good, relevant and a bit different which I like. The novel starts quite slowly but builds well with tension, suspense, some good twists and turns in a rollercoaster read.
However, although I like the book a great deal there are some parts that are overlong, with detail that isn’t entirely necessary and without these sections I think the pace would have been brisker and sharper.
Overall though, this is a well written book which highlights valid issues and keeps you interested. The end is good and leaves you pondering.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the arc for an honest review
First of all, I really like the examination of gender roles in the workplace as a central theme. The characters of Nathan and Hamish are well portrayed in their creepy sleaziness and their attitudes to female members of staff especially those in a lesser role. Nathan is way too smooth an operator in a multitude of ways and it is interesting to see how female patients respond to this rather than the competent directness of female staff. There is plenty of underlying sexism in the hospital (who fetches the coffee?) as well as being evident in the surgeons marriages with some wives careers forgone. When it becomes apparent what some of the men are up to at the hospital it leaves a nasty taste in your mouth as their attitudes are simply appalling. They really do believe that surgeons are tinged with divinity. However, Nathan takes it to the next level, he’s obsessive, very controlling, extremely manipulative and immoral. His character is well portrayed though he makes your flesh crawl and it’s fair to say that the characterisation is a strong feature of the book. The author has clearly researched well as there’s a lot of detail about plastic surgery and I like how this becomes an intrinsic and integral part of the plot. The premise is good, relevant and a bit different which I like. The novel starts quite slowly but builds well with tension, suspense, some good twists and turns in a rollercoaster read.
However, although I like the book a great deal there are some parts that are overlong, with detail that isn’t entirely necessary and without these sections I think the pace would have been brisker and sharper.
Overall though, this is a well written book which highlights valid issues and keeps you interested. The end is good and leaves you pondering.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the arc for an honest review
January 18, 2021
No! Just no.
I know my thoughts will be contrary to the majority. I normally enjoy a Lucy Dawson book so I was very surprised that this one did not grab me. Oh I know it was supposed to be all women fighting for recognition in male dominated workplaces, but I found the characterisations too stereotypical, men - bad. Ex husband - bad. Brave woman fighting workplace injustice - good. And I know Nathan was insufferable and Hamish was pure evil.
Frankly I found it slow, dreary and boring. The book took a long time to go anywhere. I gave it two stars because I did finish reading it to find out how it ended - but even the ending was a fizzier for me. Julia was a good character and the kids seemed like a good bunch. But the other adults, I just couldn’t find it in me to care about any of them. The plot started ok and could have had some potential but then it veered into the ridiculous with the kidnapping. Nathan would been a better character if he had just been a sexual predator, but trying to portray a sexual predator who has a desire to better himself...it didn’t work. Thanks to Netgalley for my copy for review. My opinions are my own.
I know my thoughts will be contrary to the majority. I normally enjoy a Lucy Dawson book so I was very surprised that this one did not grab me. Oh I know it was supposed to be all women fighting for recognition in male dominated workplaces, but I found the characterisations too stereotypical, men - bad. Ex husband - bad. Brave woman fighting workplace injustice - good. And I know Nathan was insufferable and Hamish was pure evil.
Frankly I found it slow, dreary and boring. The book took a long time to go anywhere. I gave it two stars because I did finish reading it to find out how it ended - but even the ending was a fizzier for me. Julia was a good character and the kids seemed like a good bunch. But the other adults, I just couldn’t find it in me to care about any of them. The plot started ok and could have had some potential but then it veered into the ridiculous with the kidnapping. Nathan would been a better character if he had just been a sexual predator, but trying to portray a sexual predator who has a desire to better himself...it didn’t work. Thanks to Netgalley for my copy for review. My opinions are my own.
January 14, 2021
I love Lucy Dawson’s books and ‘The Letter I Wrote’ is still one of my fav books ever so its no surprise that I loved this
Literally from the first sentence you know you are in the hands of a great story teller and that a fascinating book is starting
This is a story of a Dr, Julia, starting again after a recent scandal and all she faces in her new role/town, now I meet some real narcissist’s in my reading life but the 2 in this book, Nathan and Hamish, also Dr’s, that cause her misery top all recent encounters, they are the worst ( and best ) characters and you will be fuming as you read what they are up to and their entitlement and how they think they are untouchable, I cant stress enough how vile they are...and when Julia takes them on she is opening herself and her family up to more problems that she could have ever imagined
The book keeps its pace throughout, no wasted paragraphs and just when you think the story cannot get any more WOAHHHHHH, it does, it ends as it begins, brilliantly
This is a book you will find hard to put down once started and you will invest in Julia and be rooting for her throughout
Fabulously well told, involving yet easy to read and one of those books that make you really pleased you read
10/10
5 Stars
Literally from the first sentence you know you are in the hands of a great story teller and that a fascinating book is starting
This is a story of a Dr, Julia, starting again after a recent scandal and all she faces in her new role/town, now I meet some real narcissist’s in my reading life but the 2 in this book, Nathan and Hamish, also Dr’s, that cause her misery top all recent encounters, they are the worst ( and best ) characters and you will be fuming as you read what they are up to and their entitlement and how they think they are untouchable, I cant stress enough how vile they are...and when Julia takes them on she is opening herself and her family up to more problems that she could have ever imagined
The book keeps its pace throughout, no wasted paragraphs and just when you think the story cannot get any more WOAHHHHHH, it does, it ends as it begins, brilliantly
This is a book you will find hard to put down once started and you will invest in Julia and be rooting for her throughout
Fabulously well told, involving yet easy to read and one of those books that make you really pleased you read
10/10
5 Stars
January 23, 2021
Julia Blythe is a plastic surgeon. She lost her last job after a case against two of her male collegues. She's now at an interview where she needs the two men across te table to trust her. She needs to keep her past secret fron these men. But what she doesn't know yet is that if ahe convinces them to hire her, she'll putting her children in danger.
Julia, her husband and their two children need to make a fresh start after Julia took the hospital she worked at to court and whistle bnlowed on two of her collegues. They have now moved to a new location and Julia has just secured herseld a new job.
Julia is a strong character who's not afraid to stand up for her beliefs.The story cover gender inequality in the workplace. The story is old from Julia, Hamish and Nathan's point of view and told in alternating chapters by Julia and Nathan. There's lots of twists but i did find the story could have ended long before it did. The ending was satisfactory.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #Bookouture and the author #LucyDawson for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Julia, her husband and their two children need to make a fresh start after Julia took the hospital she worked at to court and whistle bnlowed on two of her collegues. They have now moved to a new location and Julia has just secured herseld a new job.
Julia is a strong character who's not afraid to stand up for her beliefs.The story cover gender inequality in the workplace. The story is old from Julia, Hamish and Nathan's point of view and told in alternating chapters by Julia and Nathan. There's lots of twists but i did find the story could have ended long before it did. The ending was satisfactory.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #Bookouture and the author #LucyDawson for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 24, 2021
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my ARC. This is a tough call. I can’t say I really enjoyed this book. Most of the characters were very unlikable and some of the plot points were extremely implausible. It was a two star read for the majority of the book. I did appreciate the message of women empowerment and righting of wrongs. Toward the end, the tension increased, but unfortunately led to an unsatisfying conclusion. It definitely had moments of suspense and shock. 2.5 stars rounded up to 3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️. The last book I read by Lucy Dawson was five stars. I will read other books by her in the future.
October 11, 2022
What can be more compelling than a psychological thriller/domestic drama about a female whistle-blower plastic surgeon who specializes in breast reconstruction/augmentation?
The book's main protagonist is also a working mom who is at the top of her game.
"The Secret Within" is dark, twisty, fast-paced, intriguing, unputdownable, and delightfully unpredictable.
The book is character-driven and author Lucy Dawson does an outstanding job with her characterizations.
Themes of "Me Too", patient advocacy, medical ethics, obsession, and resilience are intricately woven into the storyline.
The challenges of motherhood and the complex dynamics of blended families are also brilliantly showcased.
This book was released in 2021 but somehow escaped my radar.
I listened to the audiobook read by Sarah Lambie and Philip Stevens, and both narrators did a superb job with the narration.
I will be looking forward to reading more books by this talented author.
The book's main protagonist is also a working mom who is at the top of her game.
"The Secret Within" is dark, twisty, fast-paced, intriguing, unputdownable, and delightfully unpredictable.
The book is character-driven and author Lucy Dawson does an outstanding job with her characterizations.
Themes of "Me Too", patient advocacy, medical ethics, obsession, and resilience are intricately woven into the storyline.
The challenges of motherhood and the complex dynamics of blended families are also brilliantly showcased.
This book was released in 2021 but somehow escaped my radar.
I listened to the audiobook read by Sarah Lambie and Philip Stevens, and both narrators did a superb job with the narration.
I will be looking forward to reading more books by this talented author.
January 25, 2021
The Secret Within is an intense psychological thriller and the epitome of the saying "no good deed goes unpunished." It's July 2017 and Julia Blythe, a wealthy and successful plastic surgeon is attending an important job interview, although she doesn't tell them that she took her last employer to court due to sexual harassment in the workplace and a colleagues sub-par surgeries which turned into the old boys club bullying her out of her male-dominated job at Royal Grace hospital and spreading malicious lies about her. Misogyny at its most toxic. However, with all the media coverage she knows they'll be aware of her past but surprisingly they don't seem phased by it at all. She impresses the interviewers enough for them to hire her on the spot and just like that she has a new job at Exeter Memorial hospital. In preparation for the job she uproots her family - husband Ewan, son Alex and stepdaughter Cassia - and relocates with them to the Devon coast. Luckily, Ewan has bagged a job as Head of Department at St. Ben's, the local school that Alex and Cassia will both be attending. But once again Julia finds herself working alongside powerful men who often think they can act with impunity, especially towards women. The team she is part of comprises Tanveer Husain, Hamish Wilson and big shot Nathan Sloan - Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon and a consultant for over fifteen years; the surgeon Julia would be sharing an office with.
But all is not what it seems and there are dark and disturbing motives as to why Exeter Memorial decided to hire her. As Julia strives to deliver at work and tries to settle her family down in their new nest, it seems history may be repeating itself. Initially, Julia doesn't realise clinical lead Nathan has form as a philanderer but she is grateful (and mortified) when her ex-husband, Dominic, turns up drunk and Nathan jumps in to save the day. It doesn't take long before Nathan seemingly becomes obsessed with Julia and things get increasingly tense and scary. She once again feels as though her job could be on the line depending on how she responds to his increasingly frequent advances. He professes his love her and has taken a photograph that could easily be misinterpreted as risqué. It later becomes clear that no one is who they claim to be; the three colleagues and the friends they've met in town are all hidden behind a facade under which dark secrets and terrific danger lurks. And then thirteen year old Alex goes missing... This is a riveting, highly original and ripped from the headlines story about toxic masculinity, workplace harassment and deeply entrenched misogyny. As the uncomfortable plot unravelled there was reveal after reveal with plenty of action and a large dose of deceit. Fast paced, full of mystery and intrigue, and some superb twists that came right out of leftfield, this is a thrilling and enthralling read from start to finish. Highly recommended.
But all is not what it seems and there are dark and disturbing motives as to why Exeter Memorial decided to hire her. As Julia strives to deliver at work and tries to settle her family down in their new nest, it seems history may be repeating itself. Initially, Julia doesn't realise clinical lead Nathan has form as a philanderer but she is grateful (and mortified) when her ex-husband, Dominic, turns up drunk and Nathan jumps in to save the day. It doesn't take long before Nathan seemingly becomes obsessed with Julia and things get increasingly tense and scary. She once again feels as though her job could be on the line depending on how she responds to his increasingly frequent advances. He professes his love her and has taken a photograph that could easily be misinterpreted as risqué. It later becomes clear that no one is who they claim to be; the three colleagues and the friends they've met in town are all hidden behind a facade under which dark secrets and terrific danger lurks. And then thirteen year old Alex goes missing... This is a riveting, highly original and ripped from the headlines story about toxic masculinity, workplace harassment and deeply entrenched misogyny. As the uncomfortable plot unravelled there was reveal after reveal with plenty of action and a large dose of deceit. Fast paced, full of mystery and intrigue, and some superb twists that came right out of leftfield, this is a thrilling and enthralling read from start to finish. Highly recommended.
July 26, 2024
Review coming soon.
January 29, 2021
Wowza… Twisted and fun… Exactly what I wanted on my drowsy morning with a cuppa tea.
Having read many books by the author, I was sure I would get a suspenseful book with the tinges of a medical thriller. I got that. In spades. Nathan and Hamish were the ickiest doctors I had ever come across in my entire life. Read on…
When Julia spoke against a male colleague in her previous place of work, she had to go through a court case to prove her honesty. She had no choice but to move to a new place, and Hamish and Tan were the only ones who were willing to give her a job. You see, we doctors don’t like when someone whistle-blows. And at this new place, her colleague, Nathan, wanted her.
The entire atmosphere of the book was quite dark where I got the feeling that something more was at play in this hospital. As Julia continued her work, I got the entire story of how plastic surgery was done here. Damn, they were creeps.
The story had twists when Julia’s son disappeared. And the words in the book suddenly appeared to take an ominous tone. The author could make my heart stop as I forced myself to read further. As a doc, it was quite disgusting to see how some doctors could behave.
The story had realistic tones as in my professional life, I have come across such a-holes. Apologies. But that was my most polite swear word. The story pulled and pushed at me as the doctor in me was ready to go to war, yet the reader in me wanted to see how it would end.
Quite a breath-stealing thriller where I couldn’t take a deep breath until I finished the book. Whew.
Having read many books by the author, I was sure I would get a suspenseful book with the tinges of a medical thriller. I got that. In spades. Nathan and Hamish were the ickiest doctors I had ever come across in my entire life. Read on…
When Julia spoke against a male colleague in her previous place of work, she had to go through a court case to prove her honesty. She had no choice but to move to a new place, and Hamish and Tan were the only ones who were willing to give her a job. You see, we doctors don’t like when someone whistle-blows. And at this new place, her colleague, Nathan, wanted her.
The entire atmosphere of the book was quite dark where I got the feeling that something more was at play in this hospital. As Julia continued her work, I got the entire story of how plastic surgery was done here. Damn, they were creeps.
The story had twists when Julia’s son disappeared. And the words in the book suddenly appeared to take an ominous tone. The author could make my heart stop as I forced myself to read further. As a doc, it was quite disgusting to see how some doctors could behave.
The story had realistic tones as in my professional life, I have come across such a-holes. Apologies. But that was my most polite swear word. The story pulled and pushed at me as the doctor in me was ready to go to war, yet the reader in me wanted to see how it would end.
Quite a breath-stealing thriller where I couldn’t take a deep breath until I finished the book. Whew.
May 23, 2021
Her perfect life .... isn't. Julia, her husband Ewan, and their two young children move to this small town in order to put their past behind them. No more threatening letters ... no more secrets and lies.
Julia gets the ideal job at the local hospital, the kids are settling in a good school. She's meeting people, making friends.
But then tragedy ....
A day trip to the coast ends in tragedy when her youngest child is reported missing. Her new friends crowd around to help – searching the desolate clifftops for a sign. But Julia can’t help but wonder if she’s once again placed her trust in someone deadly…
BOOK BLURB: In a town this small, how could nobody see what happened? And who can she turn to when anyone around her could be telling lies? In running away to this new beginning, has Julia unknowingly put her family in even more terrible danger?
This well-executed plot contains suspense from start to finish. The solidly defined characters dwell within the page-turning story that leads to a totally unpredictable conclusion. This is the first I've read of this author .. and it certainly won't be my last.
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy of this psychological fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Julia gets the ideal job at the local hospital, the kids are settling in a good school. She's meeting people, making friends.
But then tragedy ....
A day trip to the coast ends in tragedy when her youngest child is reported missing. Her new friends crowd around to help – searching the desolate clifftops for a sign. But Julia can’t help but wonder if she’s once again placed her trust in someone deadly…
BOOK BLURB: In a town this small, how could nobody see what happened? And who can she turn to when anyone around her could be telling lies? In running away to this new beginning, has Julia unknowingly put her family in even more terrible danger?
This well-executed plot contains suspense from start to finish. The solidly defined characters dwell within the page-turning story that leads to a totally unpredictable conclusion. This is the first I've read of this author .. and it certainly won't be my last.
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy of this psychological fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
January 20, 2021
This book was like driving past a car crash - you know something went very wrong but you have to know.
Julia left her previous job at a hospital after reporting a male colleague's dangerous and unethical practices. After the trial forcing the hospital to reinstate her, Julia quits.
She takes a surgical position thus sharing an office with three men - Tan, Hamish and Nathan. Julia hopes this will be a new start - new school for her children, new jobs for her and her husband. Until Nathan begins his pursuit.
Chilling. Fast paced, messed up lives and people. Ridiculously realistic. Slow at times but I had to know.
This book does an amazing job focusing on women in a male dominated world. Patients at their Dr's mercy. Staff abuse. Women's repercussions for reporting men in powerful positions. Well done.
Julia left her previous job at a hospital after reporting a male colleague's dangerous and unethical practices. After the trial forcing the hospital to reinstate her, Julia quits.
She takes a surgical position thus sharing an office with three men - Tan, Hamish and Nathan. Julia hopes this will be a new start - new school for her children, new jobs for her and her husband. Until Nathan begins his pursuit.
Chilling. Fast paced, messed up lives and people. Ridiculously realistic. Slow at times but I had to know.
This book does an amazing job focusing on women in a male dominated world. Patients at their Dr's mercy. Staff abuse. Women's repercussions for reporting men in powerful positions. Well done.
May 1, 2023
Julia Blythe has a reputation for causing trouble after whistleblowing at her last employment. She moves to a new hospital and seems to be settling in well but her colleague Nathan Sloan becomes obsessed with her whilst also keeping career-ending secrets.
We are introduced to the courageous and resilient Julia and her narcissist colleague Nathan.
The plot is delivered through 3 viewpoints: Julia, Nathan and their colleague Hamish who supports Nathan up to a point.
Julia stands up for herself and is quite righteous to protect her patients. This had led to personal sexist attacks on her in the past and now she is concerned that a male agenda is taking over again.
We are introduced to the courageous and resilient Julia and her narcissist colleague Nathan.
The plot is delivered through 3 viewpoints: Julia, Nathan and their colleague Hamish who supports Nathan up to a point.
Julia stands up for herself and is quite righteous to protect her patients. This had led to personal sexist attacks on her in the past and now she is concerned that a male agenda is taking over again.
December 11, 2020
I need the two men sitting on the other side of the interview table to trust me. My family's happiness is riding on my getting this job.
Julia Blythe is a plastic surgeon whose reputation was ruined after whistleblowing on the unethical practices and behaviors of a fellow male surgeon. Desperate for a fresh start, she and her family relocate. Her family's future and happiness hinges on getting a job at Exeter Memorial Hospital. She just has to impress Tanveer and Hamish to get it. She'll soon find out, however, that this wasn't the fresh start she was hoping for and she may have placed her and her family in danger.
Enter Nathan Sloan. He's a devlishly handsome, successful and misogynistic a-hole who thinks he can get away with anything. This amoral surgeon is confident that Julia won't blow the whistle on him due to her past, and he has plans for her. Unfortunately for him, Julia is nobody's fool and she has plans for him too.
This book opens with a bang that will leave you wondering WTF is going on (and may result in a sleepless night to find out exactly what is going on). This is a well-plotted, addictive and twisty story with fantastic characterization. Nathan Sloan's character, in particular, was well portrayed. He's a great villain who will make your skin crawl, have your gnashing your teeth in disgust and leave you wanting to punch him right in his pretty face.
Overall, this is a powerful piece of #metoo literature that highlights the abuse of male power while also shedding light on the need for woman in positions of authority to be seen and respected as strong, powerful and just as capable as men.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Julia Blythe is a plastic surgeon whose reputation was ruined after whistleblowing on the unethical practices and behaviors of a fellow male surgeon. Desperate for a fresh start, she and her family relocate. Her family's future and happiness hinges on getting a job at Exeter Memorial Hospital. She just has to impress Tanveer and Hamish to get it. She'll soon find out, however, that this wasn't the fresh start she was hoping for and she may have placed her and her family in danger.
Enter Nathan Sloan. He's a devlishly handsome, successful and misogynistic a-hole who thinks he can get away with anything. This amoral surgeon is confident that Julia won't blow the whistle on him due to her past, and he has plans for her. Unfortunately for him, Julia is nobody's fool and she has plans for him too.
This book opens with a bang that will leave you wondering WTF is going on (and may result in a sleepless night to find out exactly what is going on). This is a well-plotted, addictive and twisty story with fantastic characterization. Nathan Sloan's character, in particular, was well portrayed. He's a great villain who will make your skin crawl, have your gnashing your teeth in disgust and leave you wanting to punch him right in his pretty face.
Overall, this is a powerful piece of #metoo literature that highlights the abuse of male power while also shedding light on the need for woman in positions of authority to be seen and respected as strong, powerful and just as capable as men.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 24, 2022
A fast but frustrating read that kept me wanting to get back to it.
May 21, 2024
Every profession is important in our world. What would we do wiithour doctors, but equally, what would be do without hte people collecting our bins. They all matter, each in their own way.
Doctors, of course, do amazing jobs and they deserve every credit they get. But some think they are some kind of God and when they have the looks and the charm too, they think they are unstoppable and can do as they please. Scheming to get what they want is something they consider as normal behaviour and as long as they can benefit, that's all that matters.
Most of the time, the victims don't complain or some are flattered by the attention and won't talk either.
In comes Julia. She is a doctor too, but she does not play the same game. On the contrary, she thinks it's time they were taken down a notch. They, on the other hand, are not going to go down without a fight...
A very enjoyable book, but sometimes a bit too slow paced for me. 4 stars
Thank you
Doctors, of course, do amazing jobs and they deserve every credit they get. But some think they are some kind of God and when they have the looks and the charm too, they think they are unstoppable and can do as they please. Scheming to get what they want is something they consider as normal behaviour and as long as they can benefit, that's all that matters.
Most of the time, the victims don't complain or some are flattered by the attention and won't talk either.
In comes Julia. She is a doctor too, but she does not play the same game. On the contrary, she thinks it's time they were taken down a notch. They, on the other hand, are not going to go down without a fight...
A very enjoyable book, but sometimes a bit too slow paced for me. 4 stars
Thank you
January 25, 2021
This is a really difficult book to review as it's evoked so many conflicting emotions for me. I really didn't like the first half of the book, it was slow and there wasn't much of a thriller about it. I really had to persevere to make it to the midway point, at which time I would have struggled to give it 3 stars. However, once I hit 50% everything changed, it was action packed and I absolutely loved it. The second half of the book was definitely a 5 star read.
I do like the fact that the author has tried to highlight gender equality, especially in an environment where some men consider themselves to be Gods. I especially liked Storm, her introduction highlighted to the reader just how you have an unjustified perception of someone based on their name and the car that they drive. She was such a brilliant character.
I loved Kate and the relationship she had with her family; both her husband and her ex, and the way the dynamics work with her children. However, I would have preferred it if a little less time was spent establishing these relationships and more on the action of the novel,
As characters go Nathan is one on his own, that bloke is seriously screwed up and Hamish is just pure evil. As the author seemed to want to highlight gender equality I would have liked it if she'd managed to show that it's an issue with "everyday" men, not just those who are mentally unbalanced. But I still appreciate what she's done.
I would definitely read more by Lucy Dawson in the future
I do like the fact that the author has tried to highlight gender equality, especially in an environment where some men consider themselves to be Gods. I especially liked Storm, her introduction highlighted to the reader just how you have an unjustified perception of someone based on their name and the car that they drive. She was such a brilliant character.
I loved Kate and the relationship she had with her family; both her husband and her ex, and the way the dynamics work with her children. However, I would have preferred it if a little less time was spent establishing these relationships and more on the action of the novel,
As characters go Nathan is one on his own, that bloke is seriously screwed up and Hamish is just pure evil. As the author seemed to want to highlight gender equality I would have liked it if she'd managed to show that it's an issue with "everyday" men, not just those who are mentally unbalanced. But I still appreciate what she's done.
I would definitely read more by Lucy Dawson in the future
January 7, 2021
The Secret Within by Lucy Dawson is another gripping thriller from a talented author who has quickly established herself as a personal favourite. This is a fast-paced, insightful read that promises to keep you turning the pages.
Julia Blythe is a plastic surgeon who has just relocated with her family in response to the fallout that came from being a whistleblower in her previous position. When history begins to repeat itself at her new hospital, Julia finds herself plunged into a scenario that will put not only herself at risk, but also the lives of those around her.
I very much enjoyed this latest offering from Ms Dawson, and was quickly able to immerse myself in the sometimes sinister side of human nature as it pertains to modern medicine.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC.
Julia Blythe is a plastic surgeon who has just relocated with her family in response to the fallout that came from being a whistleblower in her previous position. When history begins to repeat itself at her new hospital, Julia finds herself plunged into a scenario that will put not only herself at risk, but also the lives of those around her.
I very much enjoyed this latest offering from Ms Dawson, and was quickly able to immerse myself in the sometimes sinister side of human nature as it pertains to modern medicine.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC.
November 29, 2023
Absolutely loved this book! Definitely need to check out more books by this author! Kept me hooked from beginning to end!
May 23, 2021
Listened on borrowbox. So many twists and turns and a lot happens in this book. Would recommend!
December 21, 2020
The Secret Within (the title takes on new meaning once you've read it...) was an unusual read which I really enjoyed. Plastic surgeon Julia takes up a new hospital post in a new area after being hounded from her previous job for whistleblowing on a colleague. Julia just wants to do her job and settle her family - husband Ewan, teenagers Alex and Cass - into a new place, but it really is out of the frying pan into the fire with new colleagues Nathan and Hamish, who have their own agenda. Alcoholic ex-husband Dominic is also causing bother, frequently turning up out of the blue to wreak havoc.
I loved Julia's character - she's a confident professional woman (so refreshing in this genre) who lives by her principles and won't turn a blind eye to wrongdoing, whatever the personal cost. I really admired her resilience and courage.
We also see events from Nathan's viewpoint - he's a fellow plastic surgeon who runs a private practice alongside his NHS job - and he's a very strange character who apparently has a personality disorder of some kind, behaving in ways which are frankly bizarre at times. Then there's Nathan's old friend and colleague Hamish, who lacks Nathan's good looks and surface charm.
Lucy Dawson has clearly done her homework about the world of plastic surgery. The surgical operations were very convincingly described and had the ring of believability about them.
Without going into detail, some of the characters here are so irredeemably awful that when one died suddenly, my only reaction was a feeling of satisfaction. There are numerous violations perpetrated by certain characters and a palpable anger at the inequalities still suffered by women in the workplace. It's a brilliant read though with lots of memorable moments (including one real punch-the-air moment between Dom and Nathan - you'll know when you read it).
Loved it.
I loved Julia's character - she's a confident professional woman (so refreshing in this genre) who lives by her principles and won't turn a blind eye to wrongdoing, whatever the personal cost. I really admired her resilience and courage.
We also see events from Nathan's viewpoint - he's a fellow plastic surgeon who runs a private practice alongside his NHS job - and he's a very strange character who apparently has a personality disorder of some kind, behaving in ways which are frankly bizarre at times. Then there's Nathan's old friend and colleague Hamish, who lacks Nathan's good looks and surface charm.
Lucy Dawson has clearly done her homework about the world of plastic surgery. The surgical operations were very convincingly described and had the ring of believability about them.
Without going into detail, some of the characters here are so irredeemably awful that when one died suddenly, my only reaction was a feeling of satisfaction. There are numerous violations perpetrated by certain characters and a palpable anger at the inequalities still suffered by women in the workplace. It's a brilliant read though with lots of memorable moments (including one real punch-the-air moment between Dom and Nathan - you'll know when you read it).
Loved it.
January 27, 2021
This is one of those times when I find it difficult to write a review. And that’s because I still have so many mixed feelings.
It starts slowly, with the main and side characters that will show their true colours from the beginning and it’s easy to keep up with everything they do.
Now, the second part of the book was definitely a page-turner. All the suspense is starting to build up, and there are quite a few unexpected twists along the way.
I liked Julia and her character grew up on me over the chapters, especially since we get to read her side of the story. It’s difficult for a woman to try to make a name for herself in a men’s world, especially in one where they think nothing can touch them and the narcissistic personality is showing up with every action taken.
But, somehow, I wasn’t really sold on me too or all men’s are bad and act accordingly, only because I work in the medical field and see this behaviour every day but while there are always bad apples in any department, I find it hard to believe that everyone is the same.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my review copy.
It starts slowly, with the main and side characters that will show their true colours from the beginning and it’s easy to keep up with everything they do.
Now, the second part of the book was definitely a page-turner. All the suspense is starting to build up, and there are quite a few unexpected twists along the way.
I liked Julia and her character grew up on me over the chapters, especially since we get to read her side of the story. It’s difficult for a woman to try to make a name for herself in a men’s world, especially in one where they think nothing can touch them and the narcissistic personality is showing up with every action taken.
But, somehow, I wasn’t really sold on me too or all men’s are bad and act accordingly, only because I work in the medical field and see this behaviour every day but while there are always bad apples in any department, I find it hard to believe that everyone is the same.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my review copy.
January 25, 2021
This is a great read that me hooked from the first few pages.
Julia has had a difficult few months but things look to be changing when she’s offered a new job. She wants to move away and this new job gives her and Ewan the ideal opportunity.
With their children getting on ok at school, life is good but then Julia meets Nathan, a fellow surgeon who claims to be in love with her.
Julia refuses his attempt to kiss her but working together, soon becomes awkward.
Something comes to Julia’s attention about Nathan and she has no choice but to take action.
Life then becomes complicated and Julia worries if her and her family will get through this.
I liked the way the story kept pulling me in different directions and Nathan is just a despicable human being.
A great read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Julia has had a difficult few months but things look to be changing when she’s offered a new job. She wants to move away and this new job gives her and Ewan the ideal opportunity.
With their children getting on ok at school, life is good but then Julia meets Nathan, a fellow surgeon who claims to be in love with her.
Julia refuses his attempt to kiss her but working together, soon becomes awkward.
Something comes to Julia’s attention about Nathan and she has no choice but to take action.
Life then becomes complicated and Julia worries if her and her family will get through this.
I liked the way the story kept pulling me in different directions and Nathan is just a despicable human being.
A great read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
December 9, 2020
I really liked the premise of this book. Most of my jobs have been in hospitals so I'm quite partial to a hospital setting in novels and it was fascinating to focus on whistleblowing and male dominance in surgical departments.
I thought Nathan's character was great and it was brilliant to watch him grow more and more deranged as the book went on.
My only issue is that I think the book was a bit too long and a lot could have been cut without losing anything from the story. For example there was a lot of focus on Julia's children and how they were getting on at school which wasn't very interesting to read and slowed the pace a bit.
Overall I would recommend this book as it was a new and interesting story, and the characters were well-written.
I thought Nathan's character was great and it was brilliant to watch him grow more and more deranged as the book went on.
My only issue is that I think the book was a bit too long and a lot could have been cut without losing anything from the story. For example there was a lot of focus on Julia's children and how they were getting on at school which wasn't very interesting to read and slowed the pace a bit.
Overall I would recommend this book as it was a new and interesting story, and the characters were well-written.
February 21, 2021
I didn't enjoy this book, which is a pity as I've read this author before and enjoyed some of her work immensely. The majority of characters in this book were vile and the central plot was highly far-fetched. The pace was slow and the idea of women being treated unfairly in the work-place was overshadowed by the ridiculous story.
The main female character didn't come across as a heroine for woman which is what she was clearly intended to be. The medical profession as a whole was cast in a poor light and the ending was frankly predictable. 2 and a half stars.
The main female character didn't come across as a heroine for woman which is what she was clearly intended to be. The medical profession as a whole was cast in a poor light and the ending was frankly predictable. 2 and a half stars.
December 28, 2020
After reading "The Girls Are All So Nice Here" this was just ok-ish. I did like the different POV between Julia and Nathan and some of the twist; however I was just not into this. I also did not get how the cover has anything to do with the story. Maybe because the sky is dark and threatening and that is Julia on the cover. IDK. Still recommended but among the mediocre for me.
Thanks to Netgalley, Lucy Dawson and Bookouture for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Available: 1/26/21
Thanks to Netgalley, Lucy Dawson and Bookouture for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Available: 1/26/21
February 5, 2021
I really like this author and it pains me to give such low rating to one of her books but this one did not work for me at all.
It was way iver the top and felt more like a lifetime movie. The villain is too stereotypical, which demeans, in my view, the reality of men who indeed are abusive like that. This felt far fetched and convoluted.
I'd like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange fot my honest review.
It was way iver the top and felt more like a lifetime movie. The villain is too stereotypical, which demeans, in my view, the reality of men who indeed are abusive like that. This felt far fetched and convoluted.
I'd like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange fot my honest review.
February 4, 2021
Loved it!
This was another great read by Lucy Dawson. I love her writing style and the details she adds to every book I’ve read is just awesome! I will continue to make sure I buy her books the day they come out, and you should too, because you will see for yourself how great she writes.
This was another great read by Lucy Dawson. I love her writing style and the details she adds to every book I’ve read is just awesome! I will continue to make sure I buy her books the day they come out, and you should too, because you will see for yourself how great she writes.
February 23, 2021
Enough information to make you avoid having a boob job, but a good plot and keeps you interested.
January 28, 2021
★★★★ 3.5 stars (rounded up)
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Lucy Dawson's latest psychological thriller THE SECRET WITHIN.
This is a difficult book to review as it evoked so many conflicting emotions in me. The first half was slow and I thought "I don't think I'm going to enjoy this" and then it picked up and I'm thinking "Mmm, now this could get interesting"...and then I got to the point I just felt like banging heads! And then...it ends up being like a car crash - you just can't look away. You just have to know what happens next!
Plastic surgeon Julia Blythe is looking for a new start for her and her family. She relocates to a small town in Devon after turning whistle-blower on a fellow surgeon for dangerous and unethical practices that put patients at risk and finding herself the victim of a witch hunt by the hospital trust. Her trial was broadcast nationwide in which she fought to get her job back on principal but knowing full well that she could no longer work in that environment, Julia and her family packed themselves off to a coastal town in Devon.
Now she finds herself at the final stage of interviews where she needs to convince the panel of two - Hamish and Tanveer - to take a chance on her despite what they might have heard about her in the media. Her family's future and happiness hinges on her getting this job at Exeter Memorial Hospital. But Hamish and Tanveer have their own reasons for wanting Julia as part of their team - both of them different. And so they offer her the job...which is perfect because now her husband Ewan can take up the teaching position he was offered at the local school in which their children Alex and Cassia have reserved places. But Julia will soon discover that this wasn't the fresh start she was hoping for...and that she may well have placed herself and her family in danger.
Enter Nathan Sloan. The third in the team of surgeons that Julia will be working with...but who wasn't on the panel when she was interviewed. He is movie-star handsome, successful, charismatic and well-liked throughout the hospital and with patients...but he is a narcissistic misogynist and an expert manipulator who believes he can get away with anything. After all, he has done for years. So full of himself is he that he is well confident that their new colleague Julia won't call him out or blow the whistle on his secret practices due to her past. Because really, who will believe her if she does it again? But then Nathan has plans for her.
But then Nathan's plans go awry when Julia walks up to him outside the school where their children attend and introduces herself. He had their first meeting all mapped out...how he would make a grand entrance at the hospital and charm her with his devilish good looks and captivating smile. Unfortunately for him, Julia is nobody's fool and she doesn't plan on being hoodwinked or charmed by him. And so she stands there in her wellies and shakes his hand. The moment she does is electric. Nathan is suddenly dumbstruck, staring at her plain-ness and yet is completely under her spell. From that moment on, Nathan makes it his mission to have Julia fall under his...
And then Julia's ex-husband, Dominic, turns up outside the school gates very drunk...and in danger of not only embarrassing Julia, but their son Alex as well. Julia is mortified but Nathan cleverly diffuses the awkward situation by suggesting he and Dom go for a cigarette before the kids come out. Instead, Nathan puts Dom back on a train to London with £100 for his trouble. Nathan is sure now that Julia will be indebted to him and sees this as his way in. Thanking him the next day at work, Julia is incredibly grateful. But she is not as grateful as he had hoped she would be...as he is to discover.
Becoming obsessed with Julia, Nathan will go to any lengths to ensure that she will love him back. Even to the point of lunacy. Even Hamish, who has been Nathan's best friend for twenty five years, thinks his friend has lost the plot. Women are there for the taking not to fall in love with. But Nathan is blind to anything else...he is convinced he loves Julia and will do anything to be granted her love in return. And then he comes up with a foolproof plan to ensure her gratitude and love for him forever...
Nathan is truly deplorable but as the story develops he becomes almost childlike in his excitement and plans to make Julia fall in love with him. And although he claims that her existence has changed him completely, his obsession for her is indeed dangerous. When she uncovers the truth of what he has been doing, she threatens to report him but Nathan refuses to believe she will...especially when he shows her the photo that Hamish took of them kissing on the beach. Julia visibly pales but is resolute in her convictions.
Seemingly innocuous at first, Hamish is an incredibly nasty character. While Nathan was openly creepy, Hamish watched from the sidelines...and even took a piece himself when the opportunity arose. If Nathan was dangerous, Hamish was even more so. He was Nathan's twisted conscience to ensure he didn't blow their "little operation". After all, they all knew of the troubles at her previous hospital and didn't for once think anyone would believe her a second time...which is why they hired her, counting on her keeping schtum.
A slow burn to start, THE SECRET WITHIN does pick up the pace around 30% and then goes into full pelt mode just beyond the halfway mark. You both love and hate the story that unfolds but you can't look away either. It becomes addictive reading as you keep turning the pages in your quest to discover how it all pans out. Will Nathan be held accountable for his lurid practices and recording of patients without their consent? Or will he charm his way out of it and live to see another day?
Honestly, I thought Nathan was completely deluded. I don't know how he thought every twisted idea he came up with would make Julia love him. He was seriously so unstable it made him dangerous, which became even clearer when he started playing out scenes with Julia in his mind whilst in surgery. To the point he had completely forgotten the surgical plan for the patient he was currently working on! Too scary, I'm sure. But at the same time, his delusions and his childlike way he became excited about them made me chuckle as often as I was shaking my head. He was a 51 surgeon and here he was behaving like a lovestuck teenager. The entire debacle was hilarious it was that ludicrous. But it was Hamish I really didn't like. He was truly dangerous and vindictive...probably moreso than the dastardly Nathan.
I did feel the book to be a little long in parts but the story was so addictive and mesmerising I was never actually bored. It's a creepy thought to think that a person with such power as a surgeon could cross such boundaries completely without your knowledge. It reminds us just how much we really put our trust in doctors and surgeons. The very act of being anaesthetised for surgery is a complete measure of trust on our part. And that is what makes this whole tale creepy.
Told primarily through the alternating narratives of Julia and Nathan, with the odd chapter through Hamish's eyes, the plot is slowly revealed as we are drip-fed snippets to keep us engaged throughout. As much as I disliked him, I especially enjoyed reading Nathan's twisted delusional narrative. It was like having a window into a completely warped mind. I couldn't figure out if he was a pure psychopath or just plain mental.
A long, crazy ride that is so completely mind-boggling my head was spinning, THE SECRET WITHIN is not so much a mystery as it is a suspenseful thriller. You know what is happening as it plays out so nothing remains a mystery...except for how it will end. And I was a little surprised by the ending. Still not sure I liked it but my lips are sealed as to say anymore would be a spoiler.
A tense read, THE SECRET WITHIN is definitely a different tale of twisted obsession that will appeal to fans who like their psychological/domestic thrillers a little dark and twisted.
I would like to thank #LucyDawson, #NetGalley, #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheSecretWithin in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Lucy Dawson's latest psychological thriller THE SECRET WITHIN.
This is a difficult book to review as it evoked so many conflicting emotions in me. The first half was slow and I thought "I don't think I'm going to enjoy this" and then it picked up and I'm thinking "Mmm, now this could get interesting"...and then I got to the point I just felt like banging heads! And then...it ends up being like a car crash - you just can't look away. You just have to know what happens next!
Plastic surgeon Julia Blythe is looking for a new start for her and her family. She relocates to a small town in Devon after turning whistle-blower on a fellow surgeon for dangerous and unethical practices that put patients at risk and finding herself the victim of a witch hunt by the hospital trust. Her trial was broadcast nationwide in which she fought to get her job back on principal but knowing full well that she could no longer work in that environment, Julia and her family packed themselves off to a coastal town in Devon.
Now she finds herself at the final stage of interviews where she needs to convince the panel of two - Hamish and Tanveer - to take a chance on her despite what they might have heard about her in the media. Her family's future and happiness hinges on her getting this job at Exeter Memorial Hospital. But Hamish and Tanveer have their own reasons for wanting Julia as part of their team - both of them different. And so they offer her the job...which is perfect because now her husband Ewan can take up the teaching position he was offered at the local school in which their children Alex and Cassia have reserved places. But Julia will soon discover that this wasn't the fresh start she was hoping for...and that she may well have placed herself and her family in danger.
Enter Nathan Sloan. The third in the team of surgeons that Julia will be working with...but who wasn't on the panel when she was interviewed. He is movie-star handsome, successful, charismatic and well-liked throughout the hospital and with patients...but he is a narcissistic misogynist and an expert manipulator who believes he can get away with anything. After all, he has done for years. So full of himself is he that he is well confident that their new colleague Julia won't call him out or blow the whistle on his secret practices due to her past. Because really, who will believe her if she does it again? But then Nathan has plans for her.
But then Nathan's plans go awry when Julia walks up to him outside the school where their children attend and introduces herself. He had their first meeting all mapped out...how he would make a grand entrance at the hospital and charm her with his devilish good looks and captivating smile. Unfortunately for him, Julia is nobody's fool and she doesn't plan on being hoodwinked or charmed by him. And so she stands there in her wellies and shakes his hand. The moment she does is electric. Nathan is suddenly dumbstruck, staring at her plain-ness and yet is completely under her spell. From that moment on, Nathan makes it his mission to have Julia fall under his...
And then Julia's ex-husband, Dominic, turns up outside the school gates very drunk...and in danger of not only embarrassing Julia, but their son Alex as well. Julia is mortified but Nathan cleverly diffuses the awkward situation by suggesting he and Dom go for a cigarette before the kids come out. Instead, Nathan puts Dom back on a train to London with £100 for his trouble. Nathan is sure now that Julia will be indebted to him and sees this as his way in. Thanking him the next day at work, Julia is incredibly grateful. But she is not as grateful as he had hoped she would be...as he is to discover.
Becoming obsessed with Julia, Nathan will go to any lengths to ensure that she will love him back. Even to the point of lunacy. Even Hamish, who has been Nathan's best friend for twenty five years, thinks his friend has lost the plot. Women are there for the taking not to fall in love with. But Nathan is blind to anything else...he is convinced he loves Julia and will do anything to be granted her love in return. And then he comes up with a foolproof plan to ensure her gratitude and love for him forever...
Nathan is truly deplorable but as the story develops he becomes almost childlike in his excitement and plans to make Julia fall in love with him. And although he claims that her existence has changed him completely, his obsession for her is indeed dangerous. When she uncovers the truth of what he has been doing, she threatens to report him but Nathan refuses to believe she will...especially when he shows her the photo that Hamish took of them kissing on the beach. Julia visibly pales but is resolute in her convictions.
Seemingly innocuous at first, Hamish is an incredibly nasty character. While Nathan was openly creepy, Hamish watched from the sidelines...and even took a piece himself when the opportunity arose. If Nathan was dangerous, Hamish was even more so. He was Nathan's twisted conscience to ensure he didn't blow their "little operation". After all, they all knew of the troubles at her previous hospital and didn't for once think anyone would believe her a second time...which is why they hired her, counting on her keeping schtum.
A slow burn to start, THE SECRET WITHIN does pick up the pace around 30% and then goes into full pelt mode just beyond the halfway mark. You both love and hate the story that unfolds but you can't look away either. It becomes addictive reading as you keep turning the pages in your quest to discover how it all pans out. Will Nathan be held accountable for his lurid practices and recording of patients without their consent? Or will he charm his way out of it and live to see another day?
Honestly, I thought Nathan was completely deluded. I don't know how he thought every twisted idea he came up with would make Julia love him. He was seriously so unstable it made him dangerous, which became even clearer when he started playing out scenes with Julia in his mind whilst in surgery. To the point he had completely forgotten the surgical plan for the patient he was currently working on! Too scary, I'm sure. But at the same time, his delusions and his childlike way he became excited about them made me chuckle as often as I was shaking my head. He was a 51 surgeon and here he was behaving like a lovestuck teenager. The entire debacle was hilarious it was that ludicrous. But it was Hamish I really didn't like. He was truly dangerous and vindictive...probably moreso than the dastardly Nathan.
I did feel the book to be a little long in parts but the story was so addictive and mesmerising I was never actually bored. It's a creepy thought to think that a person with such power as a surgeon could cross such boundaries completely without your knowledge. It reminds us just how much we really put our trust in doctors and surgeons. The very act of being anaesthetised for surgery is a complete measure of trust on our part. And that is what makes this whole tale creepy.
Told primarily through the alternating narratives of Julia and Nathan, with the odd chapter through Hamish's eyes, the plot is slowly revealed as we are drip-fed snippets to keep us engaged throughout. As much as I disliked him, I especially enjoyed reading Nathan's twisted delusional narrative. It was like having a window into a completely warped mind. I couldn't figure out if he was a pure psychopath or just plain mental.
A long, crazy ride that is so completely mind-boggling my head was spinning, THE SECRET WITHIN is not so much a mystery as it is a suspenseful thriller. You know what is happening as it plays out so nothing remains a mystery...except for how it will end. And I was a little surprised by the ending. Still not sure I liked it but my lips are sealed as to say anymore would be a spoiler.
A tense read, THE SECRET WITHIN is definitely a different tale of twisted obsession that will appeal to fans who like their psychological/domestic thrillers a little dark and twisted.
I would like to thank #LucyDawson, #NetGalley, #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheSecretWithin in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews