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The Secret Place
How far can love bend before it breaks?
Josie Norris became an instant mommy when her twin sister Nadine handed over her newborn son and vanished. What Josie saw as a temporary arrangement grew into a mother-son bond too deep to uproot. But with her irrational sister threatening to steal him back, Josie has been living the last few years with Kennedy in hiding, afraid to go home.
When Aunt Libby—the only person who knows the truth about Kennedy—suffers a traumatic head injury, Josie rushes to her McKenzie River home to help Gram care for the woman who raised her. But not only is Libby’s injury causing family secrets to spill, it’s forcing Josie to see the women in her life in a new light.
Will—a ranger who Kennedy adores and who Josie is determined not to—is desperate to help the woman who has stolen his affections. But can Josie ever truly be authentic with the man she loves? With her son’s fate hanging in the balance, she is faced with the choice to risk everything she loves in order to bridge the most impossible gulfs.
In this story of mothers, daughters, and sisters, Josie must find the grace to forgive people for not being who she needed them to be…and the courage to surrender her fears to the God who has never once left her side.
Josie Norris became an instant mommy when her twin sister Nadine handed over her newborn son and vanished. What Josie saw as a temporary arrangement grew into a mother-son bond too deep to uproot. But with her irrational sister threatening to steal him back, Josie has been living the last few years with Kennedy in hiding, afraid to go home.
When Aunt Libby—the only person who knows the truth about Kennedy—suffers a traumatic head injury, Josie rushes to her McKenzie River home to help Gram care for the woman who raised her. But not only is Libby’s injury causing family secrets to spill, it’s forcing Josie to see the women in her life in a new light.
Will—a ranger who Kennedy adores and who Josie is determined not to—is desperate to help the woman who has stolen his affections. But can Josie ever truly be authentic with the man she loves? With her son’s fate hanging in the balance, she is faced with the choice to risk everything she loves in order to bridge the most impossible gulfs.
In this story of mothers, daughters, and sisters, Josie must find the grace to forgive people for not being who she needed them to be…and the courage to surrender her fears to the God who has never once left her side.
- GenresContemporary
285 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2021
4 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
About the author
Camille Eide
8 books337 followersCamille loves to encourage fellow travelers on their journey of faith. She writes contemporary and historical stories woven around family, faith, and redemption, with truckloads of grace. Her third novel, The Memoir of Johnny Devine, received Romantic Times' Best Inspirational Romance award and Seal of Excellence. The Memoir of Johnny Devine and Wings Like a Dove each received the Cascade Christian Writers' Historical Fiction award.
Camille lives in Oregon with her husband and is Mom to three married adults and Grammy to eight. She's a church office manager, boomer, lead foot, and baker. She’s in awe of the amazing grace and patience of God, and is grateful for her PhD in Learning Stuff the Hard Way, which fuels her blog at Along the Banks (https://camilleeide.wordpress.com/).
Be sure to check out the rest of her full-length novels at www.CamilleEide.com .
Camille lives in Oregon with her husband and is Mom to three married adults and Grammy to eight. She's a church office manager, boomer, lead foot, and baker. She’s in awe of the amazing grace and patience of God, and is grateful for her PhD in Learning Stuff the Hard Way, which fuels her blog at Along the Banks (https://camilleeide.wordpress.com/).
Be sure to check out the rest of her full-length novels at www.CamilleEide.com .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
March 1, 2021
I just finished The Secret Place and tears are flowing. Happy tears, but also thoughtful ones. Life hasn’t been easy for any of the memorable characters in this compelling novel, but each of them allows redemption to change lives and ultimately bring great joy. Never predictable, the story offered several surprises along the way and compelled me to keep turning pages—yet feel sorry when I reached the last one. Highly recommended.
May 1, 2021
Emotional Journey!
Twins Nadine and Josie were abandoned by their mother at four years old and left with their aunt and free spirited grandmother. While the twins were the best of friends for many years, they drifted apart in their high school years.
At 26, Josie is the only mother four year old Kennedy has ever known. She is willing to do anything to protect him and for him to know he is wanted and not abandoned like she was. Then tragedy strikes and Josie needs to return home to stay with her aunt and grandmother. During her time home, Josie learns that the lens she's been looking through isn't clear. Was she willing to let God be in control?
There is a lot of heart ache in this novel and yet it's filled with hope too. I loved that each chapter begins with a quote, many of which come from characters in the novel. Young Kennedy adds humor and a child's unconditional love. The way that some truths were unveiled through the reading of a journal from years prior was incredibly effective. The Secret Place does a wonderful job of showing that we can trust God and let Him guide our path.
The scenery is painted vividly and I would love to spend time hiking and exploring Josie's hometown in Oregon.
My gratitude to Celebrate Lit and the author for a complimentary e-copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Twins Nadine and Josie were abandoned by their mother at four years old and left with their aunt and free spirited grandmother. While the twins were the best of friends for many years, they drifted apart in their high school years.
At 26, Josie is the only mother four year old Kennedy has ever known. She is willing to do anything to protect him and for him to know he is wanted and not abandoned like she was. Then tragedy strikes and Josie needs to return home to stay with her aunt and grandmother. During her time home, Josie learns that the lens she's been looking through isn't clear. Was she willing to let God be in control?
There is a lot of heart ache in this novel and yet it's filled with hope too. I loved that each chapter begins with a quote, many of which come from characters in the novel. Young Kennedy adds humor and a child's unconditional love. The way that some truths were unveiled through the reading of a journal from years prior was incredibly effective. The Secret Place does a wonderful job of showing that we can trust God and let Him guide our path.
The scenery is painted vividly and I would love to spend time hiking and exploring Josie's hometown in Oregon.
My gratitude to Celebrate Lit and the author for a complimentary e-copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
May 1, 2021
Camille Eide is one of my favorite authors, and she pens both excellent historical novels and excellent contemporary stories. While I generally enjoy historical better than contemporary, The Secret Place is easily in the top two favorites of her novels so far.
The Secret Place might seem like the typical family drama, but it is much more than that. It’s a journey full of unexpected twists, but unexpected hope as well. While there are several heavy themes found in this story, I never felt bogged down or hopeless while reading. However, it does realistically portray the consequences of life choices and the impact those choices can have on others. Ultimately, though, it’s a story of profound reconciliation and healing.
Main character Josie is so endearing to me. She jumps off the page, and I was immediately intrigued by her situation and had to know more. The secondary characters, for better and worse, are all believable. A few of them surprised me and are involved in plot twists that I definitely did not expect. It’s impressive the way the author weaves all of these lives together in such a credible and entertaining way. I also wasn’t expecting the swoony romantic aspect to the story, nor was I expecting the excellent storyline of Will dealing with his father’s death and the resentment and bitterness he’s allowed to build in his life. That was a poignant and welcomed less intense aspect to the story versus the main storyline of Josie.
I think the best stories are the ones that cause me to do a heart check – the ones that entertain me, but also give me something deep to ponder. Josie spends a lot of time running in order to protect rather than facing what might happen if she stops and sees what God might do. Eide’s author’s note says it best: “Rather than ask God to help me in my endeavors, I’m asking, Lord, what do you want me to do today?” And while what the days asks of us might seem too big or too painful, The Secret Place reminded me that God “supplies everything our hearts need,” and I think that’s the most important thing of all to remember.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel; a positive review was not required, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
The Secret Place might seem like the typical family drama, but it is much more than that. It’s a journey full of unexpected twists, but unexpected hope as well. While there are several heavy themes found in this story, I never felt bogged down or hopeless while reading. However, it does realistically portray the consequences of life choices and the impact those choices can have on others. Ultimately, though, it’s a story of profound reconciliation and healing.
Main character Josie is so endearing to me. She jumps off the page, and I was immediately intrigued by her situation and had to know more. The secondary characters, for better and worse, are all believable. A few of them surprised me and are involved in plot twists that I definitely did not expect. It’s impressive the way the author weaves all of these lives together in such a credible and entertaining way. I also wasn’t expecting the swoony romantic aspect to the story, nor was I expecting the excellent storyline of Will dealing with his father’s death and the resentment and bitterness he’s allowed to build in his life. That was a poignant and welcomed less intense aspect to the story versus the main storyline of Josie.
I think the best stories are the ones that cause me to do a heart check – the ones that entertain me, but also give me something deep to ponder. Josie spends a lot of time running in order to protect rather than facing what might happen if she stops and sees what God might do. Eide’s author’s note says it best: “Rather than ask God to help me in my endeavors, I’m asking, Lord, what do you want me to do today?” And while what the days asks of us might seem too big or too painful, The Secret Place reminded me that God “supplies everything our hearts need,” and I think that’s the most important thing of all to remember.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel; a positive review was not required, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
April 29, 2021
This was my first story by this author and what a beautiful, heart wrenching story it was. I mean heart wrenching in a good way. Tissues were definitely needed near by while reading this one. This is a story of heartbreak, abandonment, betrayal, love of family but especially hope. The characters are engaging and believable. Josie definitely finds a place into your heart and you just want to know what happens to her throughout the story. I loved seeing her growth. There were some twists and turns that made the story suspenseful.
I highly recommend this if you enjoy deep, soul searching and inspirational stories. I can't wait to read more from this author. She has already been added to my to-be-read list
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I highly recommend this if you enjoy deep, soul searching and inspirational stories. I can't wait to read more from this author. She has already been added to my to-be-read list
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
May 11, 2021
Camille Eide has written a beautiful, poignant, and soul searching story of secrets, abandonment, and mental illness, all of which readers can associate with. Everyone’s story is different, including the lives of the twins in this touching story. Once best friends, they go down very different paths in life and it’s their journey of coming back together. Although the story deals with some tough issues, Eide handles them in such a way that readers will connect and hope for a happy ending. From the turn of each page, this story has twists and turns that will cause readers to wonder if the book really will have a happy ending, or if the ensign will be devastating. Eide has written a story that evokes readers to think about their own lives and consider what matters most. This is am intirculty woven story that will touch readers to the core.
Genre: Christian, Contemporary Women's Fiction w/ Romance
Publisher: WhiteFire Publishing
Publication date: April 15, 2021
Number of pages: 285
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Genre: Christian, Contemporary Women's Fiction w/ Romance
Publisher: WhiteFire Publishing
Publication date: April 15, 2021
Number of pages: 285
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
May 13, 2021
"It's okay to mourn our losses and missed dreams and unmet expectations, but then, we need to wash our face, breathe deep, and embrace the life and the gifts and the blessings that God HAS given us. Embrace life and live."
This is the first book by Camille Eide I have read and I can see why many people love her writing. Her characters are real, raw, and lovable; though written in third person, I felt like the characters revealed themselves as in first person, which solidified my connection with them. The plot moves at a good pace and the internal dialogues are snarky and fun. The author addresses deep topics like coping with dementia and brain injury, soul-shattering grief and loss and rejection, but also hope, saving grace and peace of God through the everyday life of three generations of women in their past with their secrets and their present/future with reconciliation and forgiveness.
I particularly enjoyed getting to know Will's character who is sweet, strong, upright, devoted, and faithful but still in need of healing that comes from forgiving. His struggle with bitterness of his past is every believer's struggle when there is someone we have a hard time forgiving. Josie is a caring heroine who puts her life on hold to care for her family. The secondary characters (Josie's grandmother and aunt and twin sister) become dear as the story and generations of secrets unfold.
I received the book from WhiteFire Publishing via JustRead Publicity Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.
This is the first book by Camille Eide I have read and I can see why many people love her writing. Her characters are real, raw, and lovable; though written in third person, I felt like the characters revealed themselves as in first person, which solidified my connection with them. The plot moves at a good pace and the internal dialogues are snarky and fun. The author addresses deep topics like coping with dementia and brain injury, soul-shattering grief and loss and rejection, but also hope, saving grace and peace of God through the everyday life of three generations of women in their past with their secrets and their present/future with reconciliation and forgiveness.
I particularly enjoyed getting to know Will's character who is sweet, strong, upright, devoted, and faithful but still in need of healing that comes from forgiving. His struggle with bitterness of his past is every believer's struggle when there is someone we have a hard time forgiving. Josie is a caring heroine who puts her life on hold to care for her family. The secondary characters (Josie's grandmother and aunt and twin sister) become dear as the story and generations of secrets unfold.
I received the book from WhiteFire Publishing via JustRead Publicity Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.
May 9, 2021
Talk about a poignant story. The Secret Place was my first time reading a book by Camille Eide and oh my goodness the feels that book invoked… This book’s story will stay with me for a long time to come. The main character Josie had a ton of depth and was a very well laid out character (they all were really!), but I loved her strengths, and I LOVED her protective side. Will also was a great character and added so much to the story and I thought Camille Eide did a great job handling some of the tough issues that this book covers (probably the best I have read actually!).
I Highly Recommend reading this one and have now added Camille Eide to my auto-buy list! 5 Stars!
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
I Highly Recommend reading this one and have now added Camille Eide to my auto-buy list! 5 Stars!
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
May 5, 2021
Everyone’s story differs. Even when it comes to twins. Once inseparable twins who life has torn apart and the chasm between them seems too great to cross. Grab the tissues and settle in because once you meet Josie, Kennedy, Libby, Will, and the other characters, you’re not going to want to leave them.
In The Secret Place, Camille Eide’s poignant and evocative tale of family—complete with secrets, struggles, pain, and bitterness—deals with some tough issues (mental illness, abandonment, and bitterness to name just a few). Yet Eide weaves these into her novel so naturally and with a sense of hope for restoration, I couldn’t help but connect with her characters. Especially Josie.
This book left me pondering what areas of my life I have taken back control from the One who sees the entire picture. Am I hiding from blessings out of my own fear instead of trusting in God’s plan for my life?
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
In The Secret Place, Camille Eide’s poignant and evocative tale of family—complete with secrets, struggles, pain, and bitterness—deals with some tough issues (mental illness, abandonment, and bitterness to name just a few). Yet Eide weaves these into her novel so naturally and with a sense of hope for restoration, I couldn’t help but connect with her characters. Especially Josie.
This book left me pondering what areas of my life I have taken back control from the One who sees the entire picture. Am I hiding from blessings out of my own fear instead of trusting in God’s plan for my life?
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
May 5, 2021
Sometimes there aren’t adequate words to write to explain how powerful a book is. I find myself emotionally drained after reading this story, yet I also feel renewed. Within the pages I found hope when things seemed unsalvageable. I loved getting to know Josie and her heart to always keep her twin sister, Nadine safe. In an instant that bind was broken and fractured by a broken promise. Oh how I cried for Nadine who never felt good enough. Even though they were twins one took a path of destruction while the other became the responsible one.
Getting to look inside the dynamics of this family we find many secrets that have caused pain and jealousy. For one family member a loss became too much as they blamed themselves for the unthinkable. I won’t say much about this part because as it unravels the author creates a storyline that tugs on the soul. This person found her secret place where her mind protected her from the truth. Her heartbreaking journey shows how damaging blame can cause someone to crawl into their lonely world.
Love is something that we all want to feel, but for some it never appears. The author shows us how love runs deep and always forgives. The faith elements in the story are strong with a message of forgiveness. I wanted the characters who were wavering in their faith to surrender to God. My heart was heavy as Josie wanted so hard to keep Kennedy safe. I didn’t miss the reference in the story about the two women who both claimed the child was theirs. The author uses this illustration in a beautiful way to show how much Kennedy was loved.
I know there are other characters I should mention but I think I will let readers discover them on their own. The title of the book was something I really thought about. We all have our secret place and I began to think how the author subtlety showed us some of them. Our secret place could be when we are talking to God as he comforts us. We can go to our secret place in our journal or diary or in church where we pray and feel His presence. Or maybe our secret place is just being surrounded by family. Whatever your secret place is let it be a place of peace, grace, forgiveness and unconditional love.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Getting to look inside the dynamics of this family we find many secrets that have caused pain and jealousy. For one family member a loss became too much as they blamed themselves for the unthinkable. I won’t say much about this part because as it unravels the author creates a storyline that tugs on the soul. This person found her secret place where her mind protected her from the truth. Her heartbreaking journey shows how damaging blame can cause someone to crawl into their lonely world.
Love is something that we all want to feel, but for some it never appears. The author shows us how love runs deep and always forgives. The faith elements in the story are strong with a message of forgiveness. I wanted the characters who were wavering in their faith to surrender to God. My heart was heavy as Josie wanted so hard to keep Kennedy safe. I didn’t miss the reference in the story about the two women who both claimed the child was theirs. The author uses this illustration in a beautiful way to show how much Kennedy was loved.
I know there are other characters I should mention but I think I will let readers discover them on their own. The title of the book was something I really thought about. We all have our secret place and I began to think how the author subtlety showed us some of them. Our secret place could be when we are talking to God as he comforts us. We can go to our secret place in our journal or diary or in church where we pray and feel His presence. Or maybe our secret place is just being surrounded by family. Whatever your secret place is let it be a place of peace, grace, forgiveness and unconditional love.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
May 12, 2021
Twins Josie and Nadine are deposited at their grandmother's and aunt's home at age 4...and their mother never returns. Still, they are loved by their grandmother, who lives in a world of Shakespearean quotes and plays, and their aunt Libby, whose forceful personality directs and guides the girls. Living in the Oregon countryside, the twins have miles of forest and stream to explore. They find an old bridge, and wonder of wonders, a tiny cubby beneath it that they claim as their own. It's a spot, a secret place, they can hike to and it's filled with salvaged carpet and other goodies for their make-believe play...and where their promise to always keep each other's secrets is made.
Josie is the responsible twin; smart, driven, and as they grow, the one who tries to keep impulsive and fiery Nadine on the "right" path. She's unsuccessful at that, though, and the once-close and devoted heart friends and sisters grow apart as they move through high school. Josie is on the road for a 4.0 and a college scholarship, while Nadine is headed to...no one knows where, or what.
When Josie is in college, Nadine shows up, pregnant, and in need of help. Josie convinces her to keep the baby, and when he is born, seeks to lighten her sister's load by caring for him. One day, Nadine assigns guardianship to her sister, and takes off. So now, Josie is the mom of precious baby Kennedy. But Nadine shows up from time to time, clearly using drugs and irrational, and wants to steal her baby back. So Josie and Kennedy go into hiding. With her graphic design business, she can work from anywhere. Kennedy knows he is loved, but Josie is always waiting for her sister to show up again.
This life suddenly halts when Libby is injured and Josie and Kennedy return home to help. Josie is still terrified that Nadine will steal Kennedy and run off, but her aunt and grandmother need her help. Josie meets forest ranger Will and the sparks fly, but she can't quite tell him her secrets; that Kennedy is her sister's son and that she is hiding from her. But sometimes, secrets have a way of revealing themselves...
Camille Eide, in The Secret Place, creates a world where love and responsibility drive one woman away, and another to hide herself and her "son." Yet God is peeking around Josie's life of stress and running, desiring to help her step out of all her lies and choose the truth, and Him. Will Josie risk everything to trust God and do what is best for her precious Kennedy?
I don't know how I have missed author Camille Eide's books...but after reading The Secret Place, no more! Eide tells a beautiful story of love, loss, and the God who is always desiring us and working for our good. I loved this book and its characters (even though there were moments when Josie's plans stressed me out!), and the way the Christian faith is woven into these men's and women's lives. Don't miss this lovely book. It is a fantastic story and it will encourage you in your faith as you read!
I received a digital copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Josie is the responsible twin; smart, driven, and as they grow, the one who tries to keep impulsive and fiery Nadine on the "right" path. She's unsuccessful at that, though, and the once-close and devoted heart friends and sisters grow apart as they move through high school. Josie is on the road for a 4.0 and a college scholarship, while Nadine is headed to...no one knows where, or what.
When Josie is in college, Nadine shows up, pregnant, and in need of help. Josie convinces her to keep the baby, and when he is born, seeks to lighten her sister's load by caring for him. One day, Nadine assigns guardianship to her sister, and takes off. So now, Josie is the mom of precious baby Kennedy. But Nadine shows up from time to time, clearly using drugs and irrational, and wants to steal her baby back. So Josie and Kennedy go into hiding. With her graphic design business, she can work from anywhere. Kennedy knows he is loved, but Josie is always waiting for her sister to show up again.
This life suddenly halts when Libby is injured and Josie and Kennedy return home to help. Josie is still terrified that Nadine will steal Kennedy and run off, but her aunt and grandmother need her help. Josie meets forest ranger Will and the sparks fly, but she can't quite tell him her secrets; that Kennedy is her sister's son and that she is hiding from her. But sometimes, secrets have a way of revealing themselves...
Camille Eide, in The Secret Place, creates a world where love and responsibility drive one woman away, and another to hide herself and her "son." Yet God is peeking around Josie's life of stress and running, desiring to help her step out of all her lies and choose the truth, and Him. Will Josie risk everything to trust God and do what is best for her precious Kennedy?
I don't know how I have missed author Camille Eide's books...but after reading The Secret Place, no more! Eide tells a beautiful story of love, loss, and the God who is always desiring us and working for our good. I loved this book and its characters (even though there were moments when Josie's plans stressed me out!), and the way the Christian faith is woven into these men's and women's lives. Don't miss this lovely book. It is a fantastic story and it will encourage you in your faith as you read!
I received a digital copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
April 7, 2021
Characters in The Secret Place felt like people I would know, normal folks, real. Lives that aren't pretty and neat, full of quirks and flaws to work on. Camille brought Josie and Kennedy to life and somehow attached them to my heart. I spent the 2nd half of the book speed reading to find out what happens as fast as possible while my heart was reeling, my eyes tearing, and I even found myself asking God to help this story turn out the way my heart longed it too for these all to realistic characters. The Secret Place reminds us that God is in every aspect of our lives even when we aren't looking to him for help. No matter how ugly or scary the problem He has already worked out the answers to our needs and prayers past, present, and future. I love how Camille winds God, His provision and wisdom throughout her stories. She keeps him so present he is almost one of the main characters.
July 4, 2021
Just finished this one. SO good! Eide steps away from her usual historical fiction to delve into a contemporary story of mothers, daughters, and sisters. Of things hidden in the past that come to light in the present. Of flawed characters doing their best to fix things, only to dig themselves into deeper holes. Intriguing characters, witty dialog, and a heart-stopping "impossible" romance. Underlying all--the question that plagues so many of us when things in our lives "go south": Can God be trusted with the impossible? Great story--highly recommended.
May 7, 2021
This was my first book by Camille Eid. I didn't know what to expect, but what an intense story!
As it is with life, we think we know exactly what's going on with other people - in their minds and in their lives. While it's true to a degree, we can often miss the mark. Such is the case with pretty much everyone in this story. And that's not meant in a bad way. We all do it to some degree.
I think if any one of us were in Josie's shoes we'd do exactly the same thing. We'd protect what we love and who we love. I loved her tenacity and her deep desire to protect Kennedy. She's an amazing mom.
It was so interesting to have strong emotions toward Josie's twin, Nadine. It was clear she was struggling with finding her way in the world, so that compelled me to compassion, but when she became so hateful it was hard to continue to feel bad for her.
I found Libby and Geraldine's sisterhood so interesting. With those two and then the twins, it got me thinking about my choices and how I behaved after my bio-father left. I LOVE when books cause me to look inwardly.
And can we talk about Will? Listen, I completely understood his anger to his mom. But along with the other sets of characters, this book really looks at the many facets of mental illness. Actually, it covers a lot of hard topics to be honest. And it felt like it was done in such a way that it wasn't preachy and naturally fit into the storyline.
Back to Will... his meeting with Josie was amusing and the nickname Kennedy gave him was really amusing. I have got to tell you, it's not very often that I can emotionally get involved in a growing romance. BUT, wow, this time it's almost like I was part of it? I know, it sounds weird, but it was just so real and convincing! Seriously, my heart was racing!
The faith element is incredibly strong in this story, which I love! When faith shows up as a strong part of the storyline, it makes my heart happy. I appreciated that it came through in the characters struggles, through the church body coming alongside them, and through Libby's diary entries.
The end... There was a whole situation surrounding a piece of the story and the explanation from the character had me, "WHAT?!" It comes at a really intense time in the story. I just couldn't compute it in my head. I didn't know how the author was going to make it all come together or explain it so close to the end. hahahaha Thankfully, she works it out in an understandable way. Whew! I hate being so vague, but it's a really good part of the story!
Really great story and I can't wait to read more!
*I received this book for review. This is my personal opinion.
As it is with life, we think we know exactly what's going on with other people - in their minds and in their lives. While it's true to a degree, we can often miss the mark. Such is the case with pretty much everyone in this story. And that's not meant in a bad way. We all do it to some degree.
I think if any one of us were in Josie's shoes we'd do exactly the same thing. We'd protect what we love and who we love. I loved her tenacity and her deep desire to protect Kennedy. She's an amazing mom.
It was so interesting to have strong emotions toward Josie's twin, Nadine. It was clear she was struggling with finding her way in the world, so that compelled me to compassion, but when she became so hateful it was hard to continue to feel bad for her.
I found Libby and Geraldine's sisterhood so interesting. With those two and then the twins, it got me thinking about my choices and how I behaved after my bio-father left. I LOVE when books cause me to look inwardly.
And can we talk about Will? Listen, I completely understood his anger to his mom. But along with the other sets of characters, this book really looks at the many facets of mental illness. Actually, it covers a lot of hard topics to be honest. And it felt like it was done in such a way that it wasn't preachy and naturally fit into the storyline.
Back to Will... his meeting with Josie was amusing and the nickname Kennedy gave him was really amusing. I have got to tell you, it's not very often that I can emotionally get involved in a growing romance. BUT, wow, this time it's almost like I was part of it? I know, it sounds weird, but it was just so real and convincing! Seriously, my heart was racing!
The faith element is incredibly strong in this story, which I love! When faith shows up as a strong part of the storyline, it makes my heart happy. I appreciated that it came through in the characters struggles, through the church body coming alongside them, and through Libby's diary entries.
The end... There was a whole situation surrounding a piece of the story and the explanation from the character had me, "WHAT?!" It comes at a really intense time in the story. I just couldn't compute it in my head. I didn't know how the author was going to make it all come together or explain it so close to the end. hahahaha Thankfully, she works it out in an understandable way. Whew! I hate being so vague, but it's a really good part of the story!
Really great story and I can't wait to read more!
*I received this book for review. This is my personal opinion.
May 2, 2021
The Secret Place by Camille Eide is headed straight for my keeper shelf! I’m sure it will be one of my top reads of 2021 and it is a story I’ll definitely read again! I really loved everything about it!
I’m very picky about female main characters, so it’s hard for me to find ones that I love, but I seriously loved Josie! While this story could’ve been too heavy, the writing style and Josie’s witty inner dialogue, which was hilarious at times, really balanced things out perfectly! And Will...sigh...what a great character and what a great romantic lead! He was perfect for Josie! I loved their relationship and his relationship with Kennedy.
In addition to the romance, there were so many wonderful secondary characters, complicated relationships and histories, and twists I just didn’t see coming. I was so sure that some things couldn’t possibly work out the way I wanted them to, but where there is God and forgiveness, all things are possible!
This is such a great story. I highly recommend it! All the stars! Is it too soon for a reread?
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I’m very picky about female main characters, so it’s hard for me to find ones that I love, but I seriously loved Josie! While this story could’ve been too heavy, the writing style and Josie’s witty inner dialogue, which was hilarious at times, really balanced things out perfectly! And Will...sigh...what a great character and what a great romantic lead! He was perfect for Josie! I loved their relationship and his relationship with Kennedy.
In addition to the romance, there were so many wonderful secondary characters, complicated relationships and histories, and twists I just didn’t see coming. I was so sure that some things couldn’t possibly work out the way I wanted them to, but where there is God and forgiveness, all things are possible!
This is such a great story. I highly recommend it! All the stars! Is it too soon for a reread?
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
May 15, 2021
The dynamics in this story are volatile! A mother who abandons her little girls; the mysterious connection between twins shattered and severed; a stranger in the woods—and the handsome and winsome forest ranger.
Life throws curve balls at us all. Some of us manage to “duck,” and avoid [most of] them. Some of us (this reader among them) seem to collect those curve balls and display them like trophies.
Only through the grace of God can any of us survive the good times, let alone those “curve balls.”
Ms. Eide has certainly thrown a bunch of them at her characters; and she portrays the depth of human nature in the various responses—burying the past and pretending it never happened; living in fear—and unforgiveness—and running away; harboring unforgiveness and laying blame. Ms. Eide’s story reaches deep, touches raw nerves.
Oh, how I related to Josie, to her sense of insignificance. Her questions of worth. How I longed to come alongside her, to pour the love of God into her heart.
And Nadine! I couldn’t turn pages fast enough to find out what happened to [SPOILER.] This reader has always had a fascination with twins, and I longed to see Josie and Nadine reunited.
Such a deep and profound story, told so masterfully and beautifully.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Saturday, #TRD, Book Review, The Secret Place, AUTHOR, SERIES, JustRead Publicity
#justreadtours #TheSecretPlace #CamilleEide #WhiteFirePublishing #giveaway
Life throws curve balls at us all. Some of us manage to “duck,” and avoid [most of] them. Some of us (this reader among them) seem to collect those curve balls and display them like trophies.
Only through the grace of God can any of us survive the good times, let alone those “curve balls.”
Ms. Eide has certainly thrown a bunch of them at her characters; and she portrays the depth of human nature in the various responses—burying the past and pretending it never happened; living in fear—and unforgiveness—and running away; harboring unforgiveness and laying blame. Ms. Eide’s story reaches deep, touches raw nerves.
Oh, how I related to Josie, to her sense of insignificance. Her questions of worth. How I longed to come alongside her, to pour the love of God into her heart.
And Nadine! I couldn’t turn pages fast enough to find out what happened to [SPOILER.] This reader has always had a fascination with twins, and I longed to see Josie and Nadine reunited.
Such a deep and profound story, told so masterfully and beautifully.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Saturday, #TRD, Book Review, The Secret Place, AUTHOR, SERIES, JustRead Publicity
#justreadtours #TheSecretPlace #CamilleEide #WhiteFirePublishing #giveaway
December 28, 2021
I have yet to read a book by Camille Eide that didn’t challenge my beliefs, break me down, and then build me right back up, and The Secret Place is an amazing example of why. Josie is estranged from her family in order to keep her little man Kennedy safe from his biological mother, Josie’s twin sister Nadine—both who were abandoned at a wee age by their mother, and ultimately raised by their aunt Libby and slightly out of touch with reality grandmother. Will McKnight is a National Park firefighter who harbors his own insecurities about the mother that left him when he needed her the most. A crazy homeless woman comes to visit Josie’s aunt and play an ongoing game of chess while grandma recites Shakespeare. These lives aren’t neat and tidy, not perfect in the slightest. They are crazy, and messy, and wholly and wonderfully relatable. The topics that are touched on in this novel are hard, serious topics, and yet with her grace, humor, and wisdom, the author brings each of these individual, intertwined lives into a spiritual awakening as they discover how deeply God loves each and every one of them. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was under no obligation to write a review.
July 2, 2021
I have loved Camille‘s books since her very first one. She has a delightful voice that has always spoken to me directly. She creates vivacious and engaging characters that always feel so real.
That’s why I’m sorry to say that I must have missed something with The Secret Place. I wanted so much to love this book, but it just did not happen. While I knew I was supposed to relate to Josie and care about her struggles, I just couldn’t. I found her to be hypocritical and self righteous. I spend a great deal of my life confronting my own inadequacies and failings and sins so it is difficult to encounter a character who feels very pretentious and false. I don’t like two-faced people because that’s been me in the past, so Josie and I never connected. They say it’s hard to like people with our own flaws and I think that’s what happened with me and Josie.
With that being said however, I fully realize and acknowledge that the book I hoped to read would’ve been about Libby and Gram. I love Aunt Libby more than I can say. She felt so real to me in ways that I wanted to experience from Josie. So the book I would’ve wanted would have been Libby’s book, about her struggles, and her experiences. So it was hard not getting enough of her story. And I adored Gram even more. I personally love the magical Grams and the careworn Libbys of the world. And yes, while Josie does have a come to Jesus moment about her flaws and her attitude, by that point I was already disconnected from the character so I didn’t care as much as I should have.
I’m also confused because this book felt like two books. One about family dynamics and reconciliation and healing and the other about the romantic flutterings between Josie and Will. The story of Josie and her budding relationship with Will just did not seem to match the rest of the story about reconciliation. For me the romance was very distracting and that is the first time that’s happened for me in one of Camille‘s books. I feel it would have been a stronger offering without the romance getting in the way of telling the more important story. The book was trying to be too many things all at once.
It’s OK that I didn’t love this book. Not every book is a winner for me even when I love the author. And I know that there are a lot of people who will love this book, and really relate to Josie, and who need this story on an intimate level. It’s OK if that person wasn’t me. It was well written, and for the right reader, it will be very compelling and possibly even earth shattering. I look forward to more of Camille‘s books, just as I always do. She is a wonderful writer.
Many thanks to the author for a complimentary copy of her book. My opinions are my own and I was not required to give a 5 star review.
That’s why I’m sorry to say that I must have missed something with The Secret Place. I wanted so much to love this book, but it just did not happen. While I knew I was supposed to relate to Josie and care about her struggles, I just couldn’t. I found her to be hypocritical and self righteous. I spend a great deal of my life confronting my own inadequacies and failings and sins so it is difficult to encounter a character who feels very pretentious and false. I don’t like two-faced people because that’s been me in the past, so Josie and I never connected. They say it’s hard to like people with our own flaws and I think that’s what happened with me and Josie.
With that being said however, I fully realize and acknowledge that the book I hoped to read would’ve been about Libby and Gram. I love Aunt Libby more than I can say. She felt so real to me in ways that I wanted to experience from Josie. So the book I would’ve wanted would have been Libby’s book, about her struggles, and her experiences. So it was hard not getting enough of her story. And I adored Gram even more. I personally love the magical Grams and the careworn Libbys of the world. And yes, while Josie does have a come to Jesus moment about her flaws and her attitude, by that point I was already disconnected from the character so I didn’t care as much as I should have.
I’m also confused because this book felt like two books. One about family dynamics and reconciliation and healing and the other about the romantic flutterings between Josie and Will. The story of Josie and her budding relationship with Will just did not seem to match the rest of the story about reconciliation. For me the romance was very distracting and that is the first time that’s happened for me in one of Camille‘s books. I feel it would have been a stronger offering without the romance getting in the way of telling the more important story. The book was trying to be too many things all at once.
It’s OK that I didn’t love this book. Not every book is a winner for me even when I love the author. And I know that there are a lot of people who will love this book, and really relate to Josie, and who need this story on an intimate level. It’s OK if that person wasn’t me. It was well written, and for the right reader, it will be very compelling and possibly even earth shattering. I look forward to more of Camille‘s books, just as I always do. She is a wonderful writer.
Many thanks to the author for a complimentary copy of her book. My opinions are my own and I was not required to give a 5 star review.
May 11, 2021
First Initial Thoughts
Josie and Nadine are twins. They are best friends growing up and are raised by their grandmother and aunt. Josie is the responsible one - a mother figure to Nadine. Nadine is a little more free-spirited and mentally unstable at times. However, as the two grow up and enter High School they start to drift and by college, they go separate ways. One day Nadine shows up declaring to Josie that she is pregnant, and she doesn’t know who the father is.
Josie being the responsible one helps Nadine make the decision of keeping the child. When the child is born Nadine doesn’t want anything to do with him and runs off. Josie is left raising Kennedy. As the years go by she is stalked by Nadine’s drug buddies and is fearful that Nadine will steal him. When her aunt suffers a head trauma Josie returns home. Will she be able to resolve the past? Will Nadine show up and take Kennedy?
Will is a ranger that runs into Josie when Josie’s car breaks down on the highway. They start running into each other in town and start developing a relationship. While his parts in the book were few it was clear that he was hesitant in developing a relationship and was cautious when it came to dating Josie.
Setting
I went to college in Oregon and it brought back many happy memories spent there. It’s a beautiful place and Camille brought that out well. While I didn’t like the stereotypical view of people in Oregon (that they are all health nuts), I see where she gets that idea from.
Final Thoughts
The reason I rated the book 4 stars was because of Josie’s choices regarding the matter with Kennedy. She was able to complete a temporary guardianship for Kennedy but didn’t seek legal counsel afterward. I feel like she just kept raising him without seeking some kind of legal advice regarding Nadine’s situation. I think if she found legal advice she would have been able to keep Kennedy without issue. It just bugged me a little bit that she wasn’t making the best of decisions but I also could see that she was trying to protect Kennedy. But it could have been executed better.
I did like Will and Josie together but I also felt like their relationship progressed a little too fast. I also think Josie could have been more honest with Will (won’t reveal more!). Though I do appreciate that Will was there for her and helped her through a difficult situation.
This story was ultimately about forgiveness and redemption. I won’t spoil what happens with Nadine but it was important for Josie to forgive her. Forgive her for the poor choices she made in life and what she did with Kennedy. An important life lesson we all should learn- forgiveness!
Please Note: I was sent a digital copy of this book to review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Josie and Nadine are twins. They are best friends growing up and are raised by their grandmother and aunt. Josie is the responsible one - a mother figure to Nadine. Nadine is a little more free-spirited and mentally unstable at times. However, as the two grow up and enter High School they start to drift and by college, they go separate ways. One day Nadine shows up declaring to Josie that she is pregnant, and she doesn’t know who the father is.
Josie being the responsible one helps Nadine make the decision of keeping the child. When the child is born Nadine doesn’t want anything to do with him and runs off. Josie is left raising Kennedy. As the years go by she is stalked by Nadine’s drug buddies and is fearful that Nadine will steal him. When her aunt suffers a head trauma Josie returns home. Will she be able to resolve the past? Will Nadine show up and take Kennedy?
Will is a ranger that runs into Josie when Josie’s car breaks down on the highway. They start running into each other in town and start developing a relationship. While his parts in the book were few it was clear that he was hesitant in developing a relationship and was cautious when it came to dating Josie.
Setting
I went to college in Oregon and it brought back many happy memories spent there. It’s a beautiful place and Camille brought that out well. While I didn’t like the stereotypical view of people in Oregon (that they are all health nuts), I see where she gets that idea from.
Final Thoughts
The reason I rated the book 4 stars was because of Josie’s choices regarding the matter with Kennedy. She was able to complete a temporary guardianship for Kennedy but didn’t seek legal counsel afterward. I feel like she just kept raising him without seeking some kind of legal advice regarding Nadine’s situation. I think if she found legal advice she would have been able to keep Kennedy without issue. It just bugged me a little bit that she wasn’t making the best of decisions but I also could see that she was trying to protect Kennedy. But it could have been executed better.
I did like Will and Josie together but I also felt like their relationship progressed a little too fast. I also think Josie could have been more honest with Will (won’t reveal more!). Though I do appreciate that Will was there for her and helped her through a difficult situation.
This story was ultimately about forgiveness and redemption. I won’t spoil what happens with Nadine but it was important for Josie to forgive her. Forgive her for the poor choices she made in life and what she did with Kennedy. An important life lesson we all should learn- forgiveness!
Please Note: I was sent a digital copy of this book to review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
April 16, 2021
“Sometimes people do strange things out of love. Even lie, if they’re desperate to keep someone from being hurt. Push their own desires and needs aside to protect someone they love.”
The Secret Place is a book of love, but not the black and white variety. Through brokenness, heartbreak, abandonment, and betrayal, love in this family is messy. Four generations of relatable characters, all trying to respond to the heartbreaks of life in the best ways they know how. One escapes to fantasy while quoting Shakespeare, another locks down all emotions in a vault. One tries to jump in and fix all the problems, while others mask the pain with poor choices rooted in anger and bitterness. Sound familiar?
Camille writes a novel that took me beyond the surface of what love looks like. It made me question and ponder, cry and give happy sighs. It weaves a beautiful story of heartache and love to a bridge of grace that leads to forgiveness and eventually trust.
It’s a story of hope with “two sets of sisters, shaped by human weakness and failings. Weaknesses that God turned into strengths. Grace was like that, like a bridge. Bringing together those on distant shores, separated by a gulf too wide to cross. Bridging gaps that seemed impossible. Grace was a bridge that says I love you no matter what.”
The Secret Place is a book of love, but not the black and white variety. Through brokenness, heartbreak, abandonment, and betrayal, love in this family is messy. Four generations of relatable characters, all trying to respond to the heartbreaks of life in the best ways they know how. One escapes to fantasy while quoting Shakespeare, another locks down all emotions in a vault. One tries to jump in and fix all the problems, while others mask the pain with poor choices rooted in anger and bitterness. Sound familiar?
Camille writes a novel that took me beyond the surface of what love looks like. It made me question and ponder, cry and give happy sighs. It weaves a beautiful story of heartache and love to a bridge of grace that leads to forgiveness and eventually trust.
It’s a story of hope with “two sets of sisters, shaped by human weakness and failings. Weaknesses that God turned into strengths. Grace was like that, like a bridge. Bringing together those on distant shores, separated by a gulf too wide to cross. Bridging gaps that seemed impossible. Grace was a bridge that says I love you no matter what.”
July 13, 2021
This is a story that pulls many emotional strings but was a delight to read. I couldn’t wait for evenings to hit so I could open this book and read a few pages each night before going to sleep. The only problem is that I had to force myself to close it so I could actually sleep.
The cast of characters are as colorful as an unexpected field of wildflowers on a mountain slope. I think Camille Eide superbly conveyed how choices made out of the depths of pain and made in secret can impel people to live an on-the-run type of life both physically and emotionally. She also wrote about mental illness in a way that reveals how wary “outsiders” often feel when they lack understanding, but also how compassion and sacrifice reaches deeper and wider than we can begin to imagine. I especially appreciated the sacrificial, albeit not perfect, love of Josie, the protagonist and her openness to allow the Lord to ultimately guide her heart.
The cast of characters are as colorful as an unexpected field of wildflowers on a mountain slope. I think Camille Eide superbly conveyed how choices made out of the depths of pain and made in secret can impel people to live an on-the-run type of life both physically and emotionally. She also wrote about mental illness in a way that reveals how wary “outsiders” often feel when they lack understanding, but also how compassion and sacrifice reaches deeper and wider than we can begin to imagine. I especially appreciated the sacrificial, albeit not perfect, love of Josie, the protagonist and her openness to allow the Lord to ultimately guide her heart.
April 15, 2021
I just finished this book and really enjoyed it.Its about Josie Norris who has been hiding from her twin sister who left her newborn with her and ran off.Now her sister is trying to get him back and she has a drinking and drug problem and Josie feels she can't care for the child.
When the girls were young their Mom left them to live with their Aunt Libby and Gram.
Her Aunt Libby has a traumatic brain injury rushes home to help her.Josie is involved in a accident and a ranger comes to her rescue and takes her to her Grams house.Her Grams is getting frail so she stays to help while Aunt Libby is recovering.
I voluntarily reviewed a complementary copy of this bookall are my own opinions.
When the girls were young their Mom left them to live with their Aunt Libby and Gram.
Her Aunt Libby has a traumatic brain injury rushes home to help her.Josie is involved in a accident and a ranger comes to her rescue and takes her to her Grams house.Her Grams is getting frail so she stays to help while Aunt Libby is recovering.
I voluntarily reviewed a complementary copy of this bookall are my own opinions.
May 22, 2021
There is more to this story than meets the eye. Filled with layers of stories and emotions as I traveled along with Josie is forced to come back home and face her past in order to hope for more of a future. It was interesting to see how the generations dealt with things, from the twins grandmother to Aunt Libby and their mother, and on down to Josie and Nadine. This book touches on some sensitive subjects, but I thought that the author did a good job of writing about them while being thoughtful in her approach to the topics. While this isn't my favorite book by Camille Eide (Wings Like a Dove was just so, so good!), it's still worth the read.
I received this book from Just Read tours. This is my honest review.
I received this book from Just Read tours. This is my honest review.
March 24, 2021
I have had the pleasure of reading books by Camille Eide in the past and was excited to have the opportunity to read her newest release, The Secret Place. It does not disappoint and I thought it was a great read. I adored Josie right from the start and felt a connection to her. I was intrigued as to what will happen to her next. It was easy to keep reading and not putting it down until every single page has been read. Such a beautiful story of redemption.
I am giving The Secret Place a very well deserve five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean fiction. I look forward to reading more like this one by Camille Eide in the future. It was so very good.
I received The Secret Place from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am giving The Secret Place a very well deserve five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean fiction. I look forward to reading more like this one by Camille Eide in the future. It was so very good.
I received The Secret Place from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
May 8, 2021
“Sweet are the uses of adversity.”-William Shakespeare
Our lives are guided not only by the consequences of our own decisions, but also the decisions of those closest to us. Sometimes these abrupt shifts in our lives serve as a wake-up call or help us realize what we’d prioritized before now isn’t what really matters. Josie, abandoned with her twin sister Nadine by their mother at their aunt and grandma’s in Central Oregon, has juggled with issues of abandonment while still feeling loved and cared for. Once she becomes a mom herself, she is determined to do better for her son, Kennedy, but the carefully curated life she’s built for the two of them is thrown into a tailspin when an accident sends her back to her childhood home.
Will McKnight, affectionately called Ranger McNugget by Kennedy, is literally Josie’s hero on her first night back in the area when he responds to a call after she encounters a deer on the road. Neither one is actively searching for a love interest, but their paths repeatedly cross, their compatible personalities and similar points of view on life gradually bringing them closer together. As they open up to one another and reveal past grievances and mistakes (many of Will’s voluntarily shared by his grandmother), it’s driven home that not one of us has lived a life free of error or “what ifs.”
Characters and organic situations are used to sprinkle levity throughout the story, many of the emotionally heavy sections lifted up by the perfect quip or amusing observation. One of these characters was Shakespeare quoting Gram, who added a whimsical touch, her chosen quotations apt for each specific situation.
I grew up in Oregon and recognized every place named, including the small towns that would be nothing but a spot on the map to many readers. Apart from the settings that filled me with nostalgia, the restorative relationships, both emotionally and spiritually, brought a lifelike tenderness to the story.
My thanks to Just Read Tours and the publisher for a complimentary copy. This did not affect my review.
Our lives are guided not only by the consequences of our own decisions, but also the decisions of those closest to us. Sometimes these abrupt shifts in our lives serve as a wake-up call or help us realize what we’d prioritized before now isn’t what really matters. Josie, abandoned with her twin sister Nadine by their mother at their aunt and grandma’s in Central Oregon, has juggled with issues of abandonment while still feeling loved and cared for. Once she becomes a mom herself, she is determined to do better for her son, Kennedy, but the carefully curated life she’s built for the two of them is thrown into a tailspin when an accident sends her back to her childhood home.
Will McKnight, affectionately called Ranger McNugget by Kennedy, is literally Josie’s hero on her first night back in the area when he responds to a call after she encounters a deer on the road. Neither one is actively searching for a love interest, but their paths repeatedly cross, their compatible personalities and similar points of view on life gradually bringing them closer together. As they open up to one another and reveal past grievances and mistakes (many of Will’s voluntarily shared by his grandmother), it’s driven home that not one of us has lived a life free of error or “what ifs.”
Characters and organic situations are used to sprinkle levity throughout the story, many of the emotionally heavy sections lifted up by the perfect quip or amusing observation. One of these characters was Shakespeare quoting Gram, who added a whimsical touch, her chosen quotations apt for each specific situation.
I grew up in Oregon and recognized every place named, including the small towns that would be nothing but a spot on the map to many readers. Apart from the settings that filled me with nostalgia, the restorative relationships, both emotionally and spiritually, brought a lifelike tenderness to the story.
My thanks to Just Read Tours and the publisher for a complimentary copy. This did not affect my review.
March 27, 2021
Breathtaking. From the moment the story unfolds, readers are swept away with Josie. Starting out on a journey filled with anxiety and dread, readers will follow along to the darkest, lowest parts of the valley and climb back to the greatest of heights. An adventure that goes through doubt, despair, abandonment and bitterness leading to restoration, forgiveness, redemption and hope. Camille has crafted a story full of heart, that left tears in my eyes.
January 7, 2023
This book has been on TBR list for awhile and I'm so glad I finally read it. Such a heartwarming and heart wrenching story. I loved all the characters and Kennedy was delightful. I highly recommend this book. Happy tears!
Read
December 17, 2024Lovely lovely book read a few years ago
April 27, 2021
Gripping. This book has great heart. Tough issues mixed with poignant romance. Recommended for sure. The kind of book you chat with your bookish friends about.
May 23, 2021
This is the second book I've read by this author and I picked it up because I actually loved the first one. I definitely wasn't disappointed.
This book is special, unique, heart wrenching in a good way and keeps you turning the pages for more.
Secrets those little things that can make or tear us down and the ending well, I definitely didn't see that coming. There's heartbreak, abuse, mental illness and brain injury and forgiveness.
This story is not your usual fluff but it's worth every minute.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Celebrate Lit tours. All opinions expressed are solely mine.
This book is special, unique, heart wrenching in a good way and keeps you turning the pages for more.
Secrets those little things that can make or tear us down and the ending well, I definitely didn't see that coming. There's heartbreak, abuse, mental illness and brain injury and forgiveness.
This story is not your usual fluff but it's worth every minute.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Celebrate Lit tours. All opinions expressed are solely mine.
May 9, 2021
The Secret Place is a book about love--not just romantic love (although there's a strong romance thread), but love between mothers and children and love between siblings. Camille Eide explores the human need for love and the misunderstandings that get in the way of it. As well as the way mental illness can affect the vital relationships in our lives. And how only God's love can truly heal those hurts and repair the relationships.
I recommend this book highly, as it is a book that is not afraid to ask questions and explore dark areas of life, but also a book that shows how love and grace can bring hope even in very difficult situations.
I recommend this book highly, as it is a book that is not afraid to ask questions and explore dark areas of life, but also a book that shows how love and grace can bring hope even in very difficult situations.
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