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Secrets in the Dark
The ultimate glamorous, escapist blockbuster - perfect for fans of Melanie Blake, Jackie Collins and Shirley Conran's Lace .
'Just the kind of glamorous escapism we all desperately need right now. Compelling and satisfying from start to fantastic finish' Celia Walden
'Campbell's warm, wise bonkbuster. ..transports you to the sexual free-for-all of the 1970s... There's an upbeat honesty in the writing that reminded me of Jilly Cooper ' Rowan Pelling, Daily Mail
'A rip-roaring, gold-plated, sizzling bonkbuster - this is one for Jackie Collins fans everywhere who are missing the glitz!' Fiona Walker
Glamour. Deceit. Sex. Deadly ambition.
They have the world at their feet.
And they want it ALL.
5* reader raves for Secrets in the Dark !
'Wow, wow, wow. Hot, steamy, surprising. Fantastically written, fun read. For anyone missing the amazing Jackie Collins your book needs are fulfilled in Ceril Campbell. I promise you won't be disappointed'
'Pure unadulterated fun'
'As an avid reader of anything by Jackie Collins and Shirley Conran , this novel felt like candy to me!'
'A fantastic gripping read hyped as the new Jackie Collins which didn't disappoint . . . please say Ceril Campbell is already writing her next book!!'
.......................................................................
Innocent Phoebe has only known a life of privilege.
Street-smart Paula has had to make her own way in the world.
When the two girls meet as teenagers, they form a deep sisterly bond, recognising in one another a yearning for love and for lives that are different from the ones they were born into. But when they each suffer a personal trauma, they are torn apart and set out on very different paths.
So begins a rollercoaster journey throughout the 1970s of extreme highs and lows for Phoebe and Paula, as they travel from the epicentre of cool on the Kings Road, Chelsea, to the glamour of Paris, LA and the South of France.
It's a scandalous world of sex, drugs, celebrity and wealth - alluring, addictive...and deceptive.
.......................................................................
Readers adore Secrets in the Dark !
' For those of you missing the fabulous Jackie Collins , look no further than Ceril Campbell's debut novel' 5* reader review
'The perfect escapism ...easy to read, full of luxury, romance, style, fashion and rock and roll. Highly recommend!' 5* reader review
'Anyone interested in what made swinging London cool would enjoy this exciting, action-packed narrative - it is both a love letter to London and a tantalizing mystery' 5* reader review
' Loved, loved the story and could not put the book down' 5* reader review
'Terrific mystery that has you guessing till practically the last page. Highly recommended ' 5* reader review
'The new Jackie Collins ' 5* reader review
'A great debut novel with a clever twist at the end. Recommend as a brilliant holiday read ' reader review
'Just the kind of glamorous escapism we all desperately need right now. Compelling and satisfying from start to fantastic finish' Celia Walden
'Campbell's warm, wise bonkbuster. ..transports you to the sexual free-for-all of the 1970s... There's an upbeat honesty in the writing that reminded me of Jilly Cooper ' Rowan Pelling, Daily Mail
'A rip-roaring, gold-plated, sizzling bonkbuster - this is one for Jackie Collins fans everywhere who are missing the glitz!' Fiona Walker
Glamour. Deceit. Sex. Deadly ambition.
They have the world at their feet.
And they want it ALL.
5* reader raves for Secrets in the Dark !
'Wow, wow, wow. Hot, steamy, surprising. Fantastically written, fun read. For anyone missing the amazing Jackie Collins your book needs are fulfilled in Ceril Campbell. I promise you won't be disappointed'
'Pure unadulterated fun'
'As an avid reader of anything by Jackie Collins and Shirley Conran , this novel felt like candy to me!'
'A fantastic gripping read hyped as the new Jackie Collins which didn't disappoint . . . please say Ceril Campbell is already writing her next book!!'
.......................................................................
Innocent Phoebe has only known a life of privilege.
Street-smart Paula has had to make her own way in the world.
When the two girls meet as teenagers, they form a deep sisterly bond, recognising in one another a yearning for love and for lives that are different from the ones they were born into. But when they each suffer a personal trauma, they are torn apart and set out on very different paths.
So begins a rollercoaster journey throughout the 1970s of extreme highs and lows for Phoebe and Paula, as they travel from the epicentre of cool on the Kings Road, Chelsea, to the glamour of Paris, LA and the South of France.
It's a scandalous world of sex, drugs, celebrity and wealth - alluring, addictive...and deceptive.
.......................................................................
Readers adore Secrets in the Dark !
' For those of you missing the fabulous Jackie Collins , look no further than Ceril Campbell's debut novel' 5* reader review
'The perfect escapism ...easy to read, full of luxury, romance, style, fashion and rock and roll. Highly recommend!' 5* reader review
'Anyone interested in what made swinging London cool would enjoy this exciting, action-packed narrative - it is both a love letter to London and a tantalizing mystery' 5* reader review
' Loved, loved the story and could not put the book down' 5* reader review
'Terrific mystery that has you guessing till practically the last page. Highly recommended ' 5* reader review
'The new Jackie Collins ' 5* reader review
'A great debut novel with a clever twist at the end. Recommend as a brilliant holiday read ' reader review
480 pages, Paperback
Published December 13, 2022
12 people are currently reading
201 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
March 13, 2023
It may seem harsh giving this book 2 stars, as towards the end it certainly redeemed itself with a shocker of an ending!
I found this book for the first half very difficult to get into, and at times you just wish the whole story would get to the damn point!!! I also found the main character Phoebe slightly frustrating.. she goes on such a journey and experiences certain things no girl should ever have to go through, so you do root for her, and almost feel disappointed she didn’t see the warning signs with Marcus (aka the devil) 👿
It’s a little far fetched, and I certainly hope if I go missing in my social circle my friends won’t take months to notice! (I mean come on it took an awards night for them to all get into action shame on you all)
Anyway to cut a long story short I have given it 2 stars because although in the end I’ll reluctantly admit I liked the way it concluded, it wasn’t my favourite read of the year.
⭐️⭐️
I found this book for the first half very difficult to get into, and at times you just wish the whole story would get to the damn point!!! I also found the main character Phoebe slightly frustrating.. she goes on such a journey and experiences certain things no girl should ever have to go through, so you do root for her, and almost feel disappointed she didn’t see the warning signs with Marcus (aka the devil) 👿
It’s a little far fetched, and I certainly hope if I go missing in my social circle my friends won’t take months to notice! (I mean come on it took an awards night for them to all get into action shame on you all)
Anyway to cut a long story short I have given it 2 stars because although in the end I’ll reluctantly admit I liked the way it concluded, it wasn’t my favourite read of the year.
⭐️⭐️
April 27, 2021
Ooh I liked this. It is a bit of long one so strap yourselves in, you are in for one ride!
Focus is on Phoebe and Paula who meet at school age. Due to various events in their lives, they keep in and out of touch and support/champion each other throughout.
Lots of dramatic events occur which forces the paths of their lives to alter in very unexpected ways. Although set in 1970s I did feel that it could be timeless as the issues the women face are no different to now. Some really great minor characters too.
Its hard hitting at times, honest, glamourous, sinister and mysterious all wrapped into one.
Focus is on Phoebe and Paula who meet at school age. Due to various events in their lives, they keep in and out of touch and support/champion each other throughout.
Lots of dramatic events occur which forces the paths of their lives to alter in very unexpected ways. Although set in 1970s I did feel that it could be timeless as the issues the women face are no different to now. Some really great minor characters too.
Its hard hitting at times, honest, glamourous, sinister and mysterious all wrapped into one.
January 28, 2023
Title: Secrets in the Dark
Author: Ceril Campbell
Genre: Crime/Thriller/Mystery
Themes: Glamour, Seduction, Power, Previlege, Escapism
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
I really wanted to love this one. The first half of the book was amazing and the plot twists and events were great. The way the story unfolded was generally entertaining throughout. However the second half disappointed me and I started to struggle to get through it. The writing style changed and became much simpler, almost adolescent, and unfortunately, it didn’t flow well for me after that.
HOWEVER! If you like smut, please do give the book a go! There is no shortage. Definitely a bonkbuster side to this one!
The story follows two girls, Paula and Phoebe, who met in high school. They are from very different backgrounds however this does not stop them being friends, almost sisters. They have big dreams but the road to achieving them is one of exhilarating highs and crushing lows.
I will issue a TW though; whilst the plot twists and events of the book are great, they do generally revolve around subjects some people will find difficult. I would advise reading further reviews (Goodreads ones are great for this) before delving into the book if you’re worried.
Author: Ceril Campbell
Genre: Crime/Thriller/Mystery
Themes: Glamour, Seduction, Power, Previlege, Escapism
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
I really wanted to love this one. The first half of the book was amazing and the plot twists and events were great. The way the story unfolded was generally entertaining throughout. However the second half disappointed me and I started to struggle to get through it. The writing style changed and became much simpler, almost adolescent, and unfortunately, it didn’t flow well for me after that.
HOWEVER! If you like smut, please do give the book a go! There is no shortage. Definitely a bonkbuster side to this one!
The story follows two girls, Paula and Phoebe, who met in high school. They are from very different backgrounds however this does not stop them being friends, almost sisters. They have big dreams but the road to achieving them is one of exhilarating highs and crushing lows.
I will issue a TW though; whilst the plot twists and events of the book are great, they do generally revolve around subjects some people will find difficult. I would advise reading further reviews (Goodreads ones are great for this) before delving into the book if you’re worried.
September 23, 2022
A thought provoking premise and interesting themes such as fame, sexuality and the meaning of belonging, let down by repetitive and uneven writing.
May 1, 2022
Devastated!
This book began as a solid 3-4* for me and even managed to produce a tear.
What on Gods green earth happened during the second half though! The writing became so simple it was almost adolescent and the story just turned into an implausible Fuking joke!
This book began as a solid 3-4* for me and even managed to produce a tear.
What on Gods green earth happened during the second half though! The writing became so simple it was almost adolescent and the story just turned into an implausible Fuking joke!
November 8, 2021
4.5 Stars
Full of glitz, glam and sizzle, Ceril Campbell’s explosive debut novel is an escapist saga of sex, sin and seduction readers will lap up.
Phoebe and Paula are two girls who couldn’t be more different. While Phoebe was born to great wealth and privilege, Paula has had to make her own way in the world. Everything had come easily to Phoebe, while Paula had to fight for every single thing she ever had. When their paths cross unexpectedly as teenagers, they immediately form a deep sisterly bond as they realise that, despite their differences in social status, they are united by a desperate yearning to be loved. Phoebe and Paula want more from life and, more importantly, they want to unshackle themselves from the straitened circumstances they had been born into and make their own way in the world.
Phoebe and Paula have big dreams and even bigger ambitions, however, their path to happiness is not going to be without its problems. Phoebe and Paula will experience exhilarating highs and crushing lows. They will play hard and lose even harder as their quest for fulfillment will take them from Chelsea to Paris, Los Angeles and the South of France.
Wealth, fame, power and privilege, will Phoebe and Paula find everything they have always wanted? Or will happiness continue to be out of both their reach?
Written in the glorious tradition of Shirley Conran and Jackie Collins, the glamorous blockbuster is alive and well thanks to Ceril Campbell’s delicious, daring and decadent debut, Secrets in the Dark. A juicy and addictive page-turner, Secrets in the Dark is a fast-paced, action-packed and wholly engrossing tale full of larger than life characters, high stakes, red-hot passion, ruthless ambition and jaw-dropping twists and turns.
Secrets in the Dark heralds the arrival of an exciting new voice in women’s fiction: Ceril Campbell. I cannot wait to read what she writes next.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Full of glitz, glam and sizzle, Ceril Campbell’s explosive debut novel is an escapist saga of sex, sin and seduction readers will lap up.
Phoebe and Paula are two girls who couldn’t be more different. While Phoebe was born to great wealth and privilege, Paula has had to make her own way in the world. Everything had come easily to Phoebe, while Paula had to fight for every single thing she ever had. When their paths cross unexpectedly as teenagers, they immediately form a deep sisterly bond as they realise that, despite their differences in social status, they are united by a desperate yearning to be loved. Phoebe and Paula want more from life and, more importantly, they want to unshackle themselves from the straitened circumstances they had been born into and make their own way in the world.
Phoebe and Paula have big dreams and even bigger ambitions, however, their path to happiness is not going to be without its problems. Phoebe and Paula will experience exhilarating highs and crushing lows. They will play hard and lose even harder as their quest for fulfillment will take them from Chelsea to Paris, Los Angeles and the South of France.
Wealth, fame, power and privilege, will Phoebe and Paula find everything they have always wanted? Or will happiness continue to be out of both their reach?
Written in the glorious tradition of Shirley Conran and Jackie Collins, the glamorous blockbuster is alive and well thanks to Ceril Campbell’s delicious, daring and decadent debut, Secrets in the Dark. A juicy and addictive page-turner, Secrets in the Dark is a fast-paced, action-packed and wholly engrossing tale full of larger than life characters, high stakes, red-hot passion, ruthless ambition and jaw-dropping twists and turns.
Secrets in the Dark heralds the arrival of an exciting new voice in women’s fiction: Ceril Campbell. I cannot wait to read what she writes next.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 6, 2024
I’m a fan of pure escapism so the tag line had me sold at first sight: ‘Glamour. Deceit. Sex. Deadly ambition.’
This book had its ups and downs, but I’m ultimately glad I read it. It started strong, with well-built characters and an engaging dynamic between Paula and Phoebe that hooked me early on. The relationship between the two was one of the highlights, and I found myself invested in their story.
However, as the book progressed, it struggled to maintain this momentum. Phoebe’s story, in particular, felt rushed throughout - her traumatic experiences (rape, self-harm, addiction, domestic violence are a few) came and went so quickly that there wasn’t enough space to explore them with the depth or sincerity I felt they deserved. In contrast, Paula’s story moved at a much slower pace, creating a big imbalance in the narrative.
The dialogue often felt simple and cheesy for me, and the themes, while heavy, seemed more like they were added for shock value rather than authentic character development. There were points where I considered DNF’ing it, as the pacing flattened and the book felt too long at 460 pages. It seemed to pack in too many issues without fully diving into them. Despite these flaws, certain parts were undeniably engaging, and the strong start kept me invested enough to see it through. I’d have liked to have explored Paula’s life somewhat more - spoiler alert - and explore her feelings towards the baby she had adopted.
I’m a big fan of Footballers Wives, EastEnders and the Melanie Blake book-series, so escapism, glitz and drama is loved by me, but this one felt a little too rushed for my preference. It was however a okay summer-read worthy of the once over.
This book had its ups and downs, but I’m ultimately glad I read it. It started strong, with well-built characters and an engaging dynamic between Paula and Phoebe that hooked me early on. The relationship between the two was one of the highlights, and I found myself invested in their story.
However, as the book progressed, it struggled to maintain this momentum. Phoebe’s story, in particular, felt rushed throughout - her traumatic experiences (rape, self-harm, addiction, domestic violence are a few) came and went so quickly that there wasn’t enough space to explore them with the depth or sincerity I felt they deserved. In contrast, Paula’s story moved at a much slower pace, creating a big imbalance in the narrative.
The dialogue often felt simple and cheesy for me, and the themes, while heavy, seemed more like they were added for shock value rather than authentic character development. There were points where I considered DNF’ing it, as the pacing flattened and the book felt too long at 460 pages. It seemed to pack in too many issues without fully diving into them. Despite these flaws, certain parts were undeniably engaging, and the strong start kept me invested enough to see it through. I’d have liked to have explored Paula’s life somewhat more - spoiler alert - and explore her feelings towards the baby she had adopted.
I’m a big fan of Footballers Wives, EastEnders and the Melanie Blake book-series, so escapism, glitz and drama is loved by me, but this one felt a little too rushed for my preference. It was however a okay summer-read worthy of the once over.
October 30, 2021
I have been asked to take part in a blog tour about this book and will admit it would not usually be the genre of fiction that I would reach for first .Having said that I found the book thoroughly enjoyable and would recommend it
The book reminds me somewhat of the song Where do you go to my lovely by Perter Sarsted .As a teen we wanted to sing the song at a school event but were advised it’s content would not be suitable .,we had no idea what it was about in our naivety! The book follows 2 school friends as their lives join ,separate and come back together throughout their lives .One becomes a celebrity stylist the other a high class prostitute
The characters are well described and believable despite their far from standard career paths .I was quickly invested in discovering their outcomes.
The prose style is fluent and enjoyable to read
There are some great sex scenes with the author managing to ensure that the call girls scenes show both her sexual degradation in early stages in her career and her growing sense of power as she progresses her unique career path .I did find early sex scenes difficult to read .
I loved the peripheral characters who were all as complex and nuanced as the 2 leads
I liked the introduction of real people and celebrities to the story ,it added to the reality of the story and grounded it well in celebrity circles of the time
The end was exciting ,I had nearly forgotten the prologue so it was great to reintroduce it
In general I’d say this would be a great book to pick up at the airport and read on your sun lounger or wherever you spend your holidays
The book reminds me somewhat of the song Where do you go to my lovely by Perter Sarsted .As a teen we wanted to sing the song at a school event but were advised it’s content would not be suitable .,we had no idea what it was about in our naivety! The book follows 2 school friends as their lives join ,separate and come back together throughout their lives .One becomes a celebrity stylist the other a high class prostitute
The characters are well described and believable despite their far from standard career paths .I was quickly invested in discovering their outcomes.
The prose style is fluent and enjoyable to read
There are some great sex scenes with the author managing to ensure that the call girls scenes show both her sexual degradation in early stages in her career and her growing sense of power as she progresses her unique career path .I did find early sex scenes difficult to read .
I loved the peripheral characters who were all as complex and nuanced as the 2 leads
I liked the introduction of real people and celebrities to the story ,it added to the reality of the story and grounded it well in celebrity circles of the time
The end was exciting ,I had nearly forgotten the prologue so it was great to reintroduce it
In general I’d say this would be a great book to pick up at the airport and read on your sun lounger or wherever you spend your holidays
November 12, 2021
A debut novel that reminds me of the good old Jackie Collins bonk busters. If you love the glamour and glitz along with the sex that are all part and parcel of those books, this explosive story is one you need to read.
Secrets in the dark is such a fast paced book with characters that are larger than life and a story that is so easily addictive. I flew though this book so fast! Once you open this book, I would settle down for the next few hours as this is one book that hooks you in so very easily.
The setting is in the 1970s but the issues that are raised within the book for women are still relevant today.
Ceril Campbell had created her characters very well, to the point that everyone has their unique voice within the story. I did find it quite easy to connect with them as well. I felt like I could easily be by their side as they made their decisions. This is due to the down to earth and realistic writing of the author. It kept me turning the pages.
A book full of twists and turns along with sex, sin, lust and ambition which heralds a new female fiction writer that I am sure we will hear more from soon enough.
Thank you to Anne Cater of Random Things Tours and Headline Accents for the copy of the book.
Secrets in the dark is such a fast paced book with characters that are larger than life and a story that is so easily addictive. I flew though this book so fast! Once you open this book, I would settle down for the next few hours as this is one book that hooks you in so very easily.
The setting is in the 1970s but the issues that are raised within the book for women are still relevant today.
Ceril Campbell had created her characters very well, to the point that everyone has their unique voice within the story. I did find it quite easy to connect with them as well. I felt like I could easily be by their side as they made their decisions. This is due to the down to earth and realistic writing of the author. It kept me turning the pages.
A book full of twists and turns along with sex, sin, lust and ambition which heralds a new female fiction writer that I am sure we will hear more from soon enough.
Thank you to Anne Cater of Random Things Tours and Headline Accents for the copy of the book.
January 16, 2022
Although this isn’t the genre of fiction I would usually find myself reaching for, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it’s many twists and turns. Set in the 70s, this book touches on some extremely important issues that still hold huge relevance in todays society - such as domestic abuse, poverty, teen pregnancy, rape/sexual assault, drugs, LGBT issues and sex work. In places this book can be quite difficult to read, there are descriptions of sexual assault as well as physical abuse, but these are written in such a way that I personally feel that the author does a brilliant job of confronting often extremely difficult subject matter in a way that strikes a balance between shock value and sensitivity. My limited criticisms of this book would be that I feel like it’s quite a slow burn, as it did take me around 100 pages before I found myself completely enthralled by it, after this I found that I could not put it down. There also - despite the author being a woman - seem to be quite a few typical “women written by men” tropes throughout the book which while I found quite frustrating I came to understand that this was most likely reflective of the time period in which the story is based. All in all a very enjoyable read, I look forward to picking up more from this author!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2022
This book was so addictive! It had exactly the right balance of being juicy but also emotional at the same time. Paula and Phoebe had a lot of depth to their characters, which we get to see building from them being 14 to them in adulthood. I did find Phoebe’s teenage extracts to be slightly boring towards the beginning, and found myself connecting more with Paula. However, as Phoebe gets older, her story became a lot more interesting and I related to her a lot more. This book has huge Evelyn Hugo vibes in my opinion, in terms of how harmful that kind of industry really is and the impact it has on people. I really enjoyed this one, a lot more than I thought I would!
January 10, 2024
Not really sure where to start with this one. Strong start; very gripping and well-written for the first 100 pages or so. Then it all went downhill from there. The second half of the book felt like it was written by a completely different author, mirroring the kind of unrealistic dialogue and overly flowery descriptions that I used as a teenager, with so many delusional plot points.
I was completely pulled out of the story and lost grasp of all the characters that were initially set up so well. The twist ending was very predictable with far too many allusions to it throughout. And the darker themes were a bit perfunctory, rather than jarring and emotionally upsetting. Not for me, sorry.
I was completely pulled out of the story and lost grasp of all the characters that were initially set up so well. The twist ending was very predictable with far too many allusions to it throughout. And the darker themes were a bit perfunctory, rather than jarring and emotionally upsetting. Not for me, sorry.
November 5, 2021
Wow. Secrets in the Dark is the kind of addictive book every reader wishes to find. It’s the Seventies, we’re in London, and Phoebe and Paula have struck up a friendship. Their upbringings couldn’t have been any more different, and yet they’re drawn to each other until the day Paula disappears from Phoebe’s life.
[Keep reading @ Bookshelves & Teacups]
[Keep reading @ Bookshelves & Teacups]
September 10, 2022
Aww this was just the perfect lazy read for me. It won't take too much brain power and probably won't stick in your mind but it's just a nice, light, refreshing read. It's just.... fun! Definitely one for the beach where you're not wanting anything to spoil your good mood with stories of staplers and murder lol
February 1, 2022
the plot twists are amazing!! the tension of cliff hangers to the next chapter want to make you read forever just like a movie. the story line is basic, however, the twists and turns involved are game-changing and incredibly unexpected. some chapters make my jaw fall to the ground just reading it.
December 18, 2022
wow. fkn amazing book, read in 1 day and could not put it down.
TW for drug abuse, r*pe, SA, domestic abuse and self h*rm
fell in love with this book, the main characters are all amazing too - not one main character i didn’t like
simon & jake stan
TW for drug abuse, r*pe, SA, domestic abuse and self h*rm
fell in love with this book, the main characters are all amazing too - not one main character i didn’t like
simon & jake stan
September 14, 2025
I didnt know what to expect its not my normal go to book but i ended up really enjoying this story of 2 unlikely girls who became friends, then got separated only to find each other. A unique tale of friendship, heartbreak and healing. Really good rea.
May 13, 2023
Not for me
Should have a sexual content warning
Should have a sexual content warning
September 10, 2023
2.5…. Dragged on a bit
December 29, 2023
very nearly dnf’d this but i continued and i had no idea where it was going for 75% of this book lol
May 28, 2025
not really a thrilling read. very so/so. The ending was very basic. disappointed if I'm honest.
May 30, 2022
absolutely loved this book
if id had known the blurb id probably have given it a miss
simply because in not for the celebrity lifestyle
but wow
i am
so glad it came up as a suggestion in fb group
i bought read and loved it
the new jaqui collins
the new riders jilly cooper
shall
i go on .. nope jusy go read it !
if id had known the blurb id probably have given it a miss
simply because in not for the celebrity lifestyle
but wow
i am
so glad it came up as a suggestion in fb group
i bought read and loved it
the new jaqui collins
the new riders jilly cooper
shall
i go on .. nope jusy go read it !
September 14, 2021
I loved this book and finished it fast. I enjoyed how the story unfolded and was entertained from start to finish. It reminded me of Valley of the Dolls. However somethings didn't sit right with me and this put a damper on how I felt about this book. I will list these below. These are very minor spoilers, maybe could not be considered spoilers at all. I really don't think they will give anything major away but just a heads up that this has some details about the story.
1. The title does not fit the book, not in any way. There were some private/personal things that happened but there were no secrets. At the end there was one surprise but it really didn't have anything to do with the book as a whole. It was brief and not enough to make it the title. So this book is misleading because it is not scandalous like I had assumed it to be.
2. The book starts out with two friends who have completely different upbringings. They make an unlikely pair but are very close. They get separated early on and one wonders what happened to the other. They always think about each other and often are in the same place over the years but don't realize it. It is a constant thought in their mind to find each other again. Eventually they make their way back to each other after many years of both having crazy lives. Sounds slightly passionate right? No. Not at all. The friendship seemed like it would lead to more and was intense the first few chapters. I thought it was going to end with them reuniting and realizing they were in love. The friendship and longing for each other seems to be the main plot of the book but by the end it fizzled out and it makes me wonder why the author invested so much in this friendship to have it end with nothing.
I still enjoyed this book but I think the author hurried towards the end and I wish there would have been a different outcome.
1. The title does not fit the book, not in any way. There were some private/personal things that happened but there were no secrets. At the end there was one surprise but it really didn't have anything to do with the book as a whole. It was brief and not enough to make it the title. So this book is misleading because it is not scandalous like I had assumed it to be.
2. The book starts out with two friends who have completely different upbringings. They make an unlikely pair but are very close. They get separated early on and one wonders what happened to the other. They always think about each other and often are in the same place over the years but don't realize it. It is a constant thought in their mind to find each other again. Eventually they make their way back to each other after many years of both having crazy lives. Sounds slightly passionate right? No. Not at all. The friendship seemed like it would lead to more and was intense the first few chapters. I thought it was going to end with them reuniting and realizing they were in love. The friendship and longing for each other seems to be the main plot of the book but by the end it fizzled out and it makes me wonder why the author invested so much in this friendship to have it end with nothing.
I still enjoyed this book but I think the author hurried towards the end and I wish there would have been a different outcome.
January 23, 2021
Secrets In The Dark is so much more than just an erotic thriller - it’s a story of love, friendship, pain and suffering. The novel is written beautifully and the characters of Paula and Phoebe, as well as others, really come to life. I sympathised with the girls’ pain but also envied their life of glamour. I love the fact we are able to follow them from their teen years through to adulthood and that we are transported on a journey to different places and cultures. Although I was gripped by the story, I didn’t speed through reading it, simply because I didn’t want it to end. It’s a book that really has you invested in the characters and their life, and I do hope that there’ll be some sort of sequel as I’d love to know more!
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For more book reviews, follow me on Instagram - @libraryofsylvia
May 31, 2021
Ceril Campbell’s debut, ‘Secrets in the Dark’, is a glamorous, escapist story following two young girls, innocent Phoebe and street smart Paula and their personal journey through the seventies, think fashion, celebrity, danger, drugs and rock ‘n roll and through the heart of it friendship
It’s an easy read, cliche’d at times however, it’s evident that the author has been a celebrity stylist because there are enough facts that are woven through the book to make it more than the usual bonkbuster.
It’s an easy read, cliche’d at times however, it’s evident that the author has been a celebrity stylist because there are enough facts that are woven through the book to make it more than the usual bonkbuster.
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September 20, 2020Couldn't put it down
The book cover looks much more saucy than what's within the book itself. The story details the lives of two girls from different backgrounds in the 1970s and the different challenges both socially and sexually they are forced to undertake. Could not put it down, some shocking twists and turns and moments you both can't and can't help but to read. What a fantastic read!
The book cover looks much more saucy than what's within the book itself. The story details the lives of two girls from different backgrounds in the 1970s and the different challenges both socially and sexually they are forced to undertake. Could not put it down, some shocking twists and turns and moments you both can't and can't help but to read. What a fantastic read!
May 27, 2021
Unfortunately I didn’t much like this book. I found it to be quite badly written and a little childish, and time and again I found myself putting this book aside and reading something with a little more depth. It was off-putting how the author felt the need to name drop restaurants, stores and ‘things’ (cappuccinos didn’t exist in 1970) and I just could not feel anything for the characters. Not one for me.
June 22, 2021
Oh dear. This lady is trying to be like Jackie Collins and not nailing it at all. I love the occasional bonkbuster, but this charting the lives of two former friends in the decadent 1970's and 80's left me cold.
December 16, 2020
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