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A Mother's Secret
A gripping, emotional book that asks the What does it take to be a parent?
Brand new from the bestselling author of The Last Days of Us In one split second, Aidan Whelan’s perfect world is changed forever when his wife Rowan and three-year old daughter Milly are involved in tragic accident.
Helena O’Herlihy and her husband James have been struggling in their marriage but a knock on the door telling her that James has been involved in a car crash, has Helena rushing to his side.
When Aidan and Helena bump into each other at Dublin City Hospital, they soon begin to wonder if it’s more than just coincidence that brought them there. Why were Rowan and James in the car together on that fateful morning?
Through their pain and tears, they form a bond as they try to piece together what really did happen on the morning of the crash.
As the lies begin to unravel and secrets are uncovered, can Aidan save what’s left of his family and Helena her marriage?
Brand new from the bestselling author of The Last Days of Us In one split second, Aidan Whelan’s perfect world is changed forever when his wife Rowan and three-year old daughter Milly are involved in tragic accident.
Helena O’Herlihy and her husband James have been struggling in their marriage but a knock on the door telling her that James has been involved in a car crash, has Helena rushing to his side.
When Aidan and Helena bump into each other at Dublin City Hospital, they soon begin to wonder if it’s more than just coincidence that brought them there. Why were Rowan and James in the car together on that fateful morning?
Through their pain and tears, they form a bond as they try to piece together what really did happen on the morning of the crash.
As the lies begin to unravel and secrets are uncovered, can Aidan save what’s left of his family and Helena her marriage?
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 8, 2022
1064 people are currently reading
371 people want to read
About the author
Caroline Finnerty
18 books127 followersThank you for visiting my author page. I am an Irish author living on the banks of the Grand Canal in Co. Kildare with my husband and our four young children. My books have been described as emotional tearjerkers and always have a big dilemma at their heart. I love to explore the different sides of human behaviour and why we do what we do. My 5th book THE LAST DAYS OF US will be published by Boldwood in June 2021. You can find out more about me on my website www.carolinefinnerty.ie or contact me on Facebook (carolinefinnertywriter) or Twitter (@cfinnertywriter).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
January 19, 2022
4.5★s
A Mother’s Secret is the sixth novel by Irish author, Caroline Finnerty. Out of the blue, mother of three Rowan Whelan contacts her friend (and sometime lover) from college days, James O’Herlihy, suggesting they meet up: she wants to chat about something. James is puzzled: they haven’t seen each other since his wedding three years earlier. With her three-year-old daughter in the car, she collects him for a drive to the beach, but before she can reveal what she wants to talk about, they are involved in a serious traffic accident.
The reader’s first guess about what Rowan intended to reveal is likely correct, but her further intentions are not apparent. It’s the aftermath for the survivors that form the bulk of the story. Aiden Whelan already has to cope with his grief, worry for his injured daughter and the grief of his sons and their extended family.
Before she learns of her husband’s accident, GP Helena O’Herlihy is dealing with fertility issues, potential marital breakdown and forced leave from work. Both Helena and Aiden are baffled as to why James and Rowan were together. Until James regains consciousness, when they are both in for a shock.
A devastating betrayal and an upsetting secret are eventually revealed. From there, characters who should know better make unethical choices, act in a disappointingly selfish manner and fail to consider the happiness and welfare of the one central to the dilemma they face. After much anguish, people come to their senses and remember to be kind, although the resolution is perhaps a little neater than is realistic.
In hindsight: “Helena had always thought that secrets were better off aired, but now she realised that some secrets were better off not being discovered. They could cause too much heartache and pain. Sometimes you were better off not knowing the truth. It was kinder that way.” A moving and thought-provoking read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Boldwood Books
A Mother’s Secret is the sixth novel by Irish author, Caroline Finnerty. Out of the blue, mother of three Rowan Whelan contacts her friend (and sometime lover) from college days, James O’Herlihy, suggesting they meet up: she wants to chat about something. James is puzzled: they haven’t seen each other since his wedding three years earlier. With her three-year-old daughter in the car, she collects him for a drive to the beach, but before she can reveal what she wants to talk about, they are involved in a serious traffic accident.
The reader’s first guess about what Rowan intended to reveal is likely correct, but her further intentions are not apparent. It’s the aftermath for the survivors that form the bulk of the story. Aiden Whelan already has to cope with his grief, worry for his injured daughter and the grief of his sons and their extended family.
Before she learns of her husband’s accident, GP Helena O’Herlihy is dealing with fertility issues, potential marital breakdown and forced leave from work. Both Helena and Aiden are baffled as to why James and Rowan were together. Until James regains consciousness, when they are both in for a shock.
A devastating betrayal and an upsetting secret are eventually revealed. From there, characters who should know better make unethical choices, act in a disappointingly selfish manner and fail to consider the happiness and welfare of the one central to the dilemma they face. After much anguish, people come to their senses and remember to be kind, although the resolution is perhaps a little neater than is realistic.
In hindsight: “Helena had always thought that secrets were better off aired, but now she realised that some secrets were better off not being discovered. They could cause too much heartache and pain. Sometimes you were better off not knowing the truth. It was kinder that way.” A moving and thought-provoking read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Boldwood Books
February 18, 2022
I have never read a book by this Irish author but this book was so engaging that I will definitely be watching for more books by Caroline Finnerty. I loved all the characters in this book and it had lots of secrets throughout. Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this heartwarming novel in exchange for my honest review.
February 12, 2022
This is my first book by the author and I am looking forward to reading more of her work.
This is such a beautiful but heart wrenching novel. As soon as Rowan picked up James, I could tell what was going to be revealed and my interest was instantly held, to see how it would all unravel.
I was invested in all of the characters (apart from Rowan’s dad!) And could feel each of their emotions through the pages. I especially enjoyed that we saw Jack and Callum’s feelings, as sometimes in novels like this the focus is on the adult.
I absolutely loved the ending, which was the perfect outcome 💕
This is such a beautiful but heart wrenching novel. As soon as Rowan picked up James, I could tell what was going to be revealed and my interest was instantly held, to see how it would all unravel.
I was invested in all of the characters (apart from Rowan’s dad!) And could feel each of their emotions through the pages. I especially enjoyed that we saw Jack and Callum’s feelings, as sometimes in novels like this the focus is on the adult.
I absolutely loved the ending, which was the perfect outcome 💕
February 9, 2022
This was a fantastic story. Totally heartbreaking for so many reasons. I really enjoyed getting the different POVs of the characters as I felt it helped me truly understand their motivations. It’s not an easy book and very different to what I usually read but it had me hooked.
I received an arc of this book
I received an arc of this book
April 11, 2022
Felt like reading a hallmark Christmas movie
February 5, 2022
My first read by this author, outside of my normal genre and a very satisfying read. Well written and with the full gamut of emotions; love and hate, joy and grief, caring and selfishness- you get the idea. On the downside I did find it quite slow to get started and the main characters seemed a big slow on the uptake about what the secret was that Rowan was going to reveal. However, on the upside the story moved along at a much better pace once the secret was revealed and the descriptions of the actions and emotions were excellent.
Briefly, after Rowan Whelan is killed in a car crash, her passenger James O’Herlihy injured and her 3 year old daughter Maisie left in a coma. Rowan’s husband Aiden and her two boys all deal with their grief in different ways. Whereas James’s wife Helena, who has been devastated to learn she won’t ever carry a baby full term, has come to realise just how much she loves her husband. But when a secret is revealed the consequences are devastating for them all.
A heart wrenching story about the dreadful way some people can act in the face of desperation and despair, with no though if the impact on others that will be affected by their actions. Brilliantly told and a good read. An author I would definitely explore again. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Briefly, after Rowan Whelan is killed in a car crash, her passenger James O’Herlihy injured and her 3 year old daughter Maisie left in a coma. Rowan’s husband Aiden and her two boys all deal with their grief in different ways. Whereas James’s wife Helena, who has been devastated to learn she won’t ever carry a baby full term, has come to realise just how much she loves her husband. But when a secret is revealed the consequences are devastating for them all.
A heart wrenching story about the dreadful way some people can act in the face of desperation and despair, with no though if the impact on others that will be affected by their actions. Brilliantly told and a good read. An author I would definitely explore again. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 4, 2022
The mother's secret of the title is pretty much revealed right from the epilogue, but it's ok because this book is so much more than that. The "secret" is only the starting point of a journey the author masterfully accompanies us through. A journey through loss, grieving, love, lies and family ties. An emotional read, beautifully written. Definitely recommended!
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 3, 2022
It’s so hard to put in words how much I loved this book. It was a touching, realistic story of how one instant can change so many peoples lives. The characters are flawed and so honest.
The author writes about the pain and loss so beautifully. Parts were extremely hard to read & at times I hated one character but it was still probably my favorite read in a long time.
The author writes about the pain and loss so beautifully. Parts were extremely hard to read & at times I hated one character but it was still probably my favorite read in a long time.
February 12, 2022
Very, very interesting plot!
An accident that occurs, followed by one woman's misguided pursuit to find the truth, shocks one family and nearly devastates another. Although one part of the plot is easy enough to guess, the result, or aftermath, does not become clear until closer to the end. I read feverishly, wondering at every turn what would happen next. It's a great story, well worth the read. I enjoyed it very much and, this being my first, would try another book from this author. We may hold some divergent views if her beliefs are reflected in her characters. For example, I don't think, as one of the main characters seems to suggest, that God is a genie, an entity at our whim whose value or existence is determined by whether or not we get what we want in life. Even so, the author is an excellent writer with an enviable ability to weave a good tale. I anticipate enjoying another book written by her just as much!
An accident that occurs, followed by one woman's misguided pursuit to find the truth, shocks one family and nearly devastates another. Although one part of the plot is easy enough to guess, the result, or aftermath, does not become clear until closer to the end. I read feverishly, wondering at every turn what would happen next. It's a great story, well worth the read. I enjoyed it very much and, this being my first, would try another book from this author. We may hold some divergent views if her beliefs are reflected in her characters. For example, I don't think, as one of the main characters seems to suggest, that God is a genie, an entity at our whim whose value or existence is determined by whether or not we get what we want in life. Even so, the author is an excellent writer with an enviable ability to weave a good tale. I anticipate enjoying another book written by her just as much!
February 10, 2022
If there’s one thing that I like doing, it’s discovering new authors and Caroline Finnerty is certainly a new author for me. I read the synopsis for ‘A Mother’s Secret’ and it certainly sounded like the sort of book that I would enjoy. Well I was spot on because I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘A Mother’s Secret’ but more about that in a bit.
It took me no time at all to get into ‘A Mother’s Secret’. In fact as soon as I started to read and I got to know the characters, I knew that there was little chance of being able to put the book down for any length of time. I had my own theory as to what was going to happen and so of course I had to keep reading to see if I was right or if I had gone off in the opposite direction. I guess I am just nosy because as more secrets and lies came tumbling out of the closet, I kept turning those pages to see if there were any other surprises or shocks in store. This was one of those books that stayed with me whether or not I had the book in my hand. If I wasn’t reading the book, then I was thinking about it. If I had to put the book to one side then I would immediately look forward to being able to pick the book up again. I seemed to race my way through the story. I found ‘A Mother’s Secret’ to be a tense, gripping and emotional read, which kept me guessing and which kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
‘A Mother’s Secret’ is extremely well written. I found Caroline’s writing style grabbed my attention from the start and drew me into what proved to be one heck of a compelling story. For me the story (quite literally) started with a bang and from then on maintained a steady pace, which suited the story that Caroline is telling. The story is told in the form of chapters ‘voiced’ by particular characters and tells the story from their point of view. I love the way in which Caroline makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action. That’s how I felt at any rate. I was so wrapped up in the story and convinced by it that I felt myself going through all the emotions that the various characters were going through.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘A Mother’s Secret’ and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Caroline’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5*out of 5*.
It took me no time at all to get into ‘A Mother’s Secret’. In fact as soon as I started to read and I got to know the characters, I knew that there was little chance of being able to put the book down for any length of time. I had my own theory as to what was going to happen and so of course I had to keep reading to see if I was right or if I had gone off in the opposite direction. I guess I am just nosy because as more secrets and lies came tumbling out of the closet, I kept turning those pages to see if there were any other surprises or shocks in store. This was one of those books that stayed with me whether or not I had the book in my hand. If I wasn’t reading the book, then I was thinking about it. If I had to put the book to one side then I would immediately look forward to being able to pick the book up again. I seemed to race my way through the story. I found ‘A Mother’s Secret’ to be a tense, gripping and emotional read, which kept me guessing and which kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
‘A Mother’s Secret’ is extremely well written. I found Caroline’s writing style grabbed my attention from the start and drew me into what proved to be one heck of a compelling story. For me the story (quite literally) started with a bang and from then on maintained a steady pace, which suited the story that Caroline is telling. The story is told in the form of chapters ‘voiced’ by particular characters and tells the story from their point of view. I love the way in which Caroline makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action. That’s how I felt at any rate. I was so wrapped up in the story and convinced by it that I felt myself going through all the emotions that the various characters were going through.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘A Mother’s Secret’ and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Caroline’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5*out of 5*.
April 25, 2022
Caroline Finnerty’s A Mother’s Secret is a heart-wrenching emotional drama readers will still be thinking about long after they turn the last page.
Aidan Whelan’s world changed in a heartbeat when he received the devastating news that his wife and daughter had been involved in a tragic accident. Aidan sees his perfect life shattering in front of his very eyes as he finds himself having to deal with this devastating trauma. However, when he gets to Dublin City Hospital, he realises that there is more to this story than he had initially thought…
Helena’s marriage to her husband James was far from perfect. They’ve been struggling for a very long time and Helena wonders whether they will ever manage to go back to how they were. However, Helena’s marriage problems fade into insignificance when she receives the heart-stopping news that James has been involved in car crash. Rushing to the hospital, she bumps into Aidan and discovers that his wife Rowan had been in the same vehicle as James at the time of the accident.
Why were Rowan and James in the same car? What was their connection? And what really happened that fateful morning? As Aidan and Helena try to solve this puzzle, they form a close bond and as secrets are uncovered and harsh realities faced, they start to wonder whether both of their families can be saved or whether it’s simply too late.
Caroline Finnerty’s A Mother’s Secret is a must-read for fans of Kate Hewitt and Diane Chamberlain. A complex, heart-wrenching and poignant tale about dangerous lies, devastating deceptions and the power of forgiveness, A Mother’s Secret is a subtly layered and highly involving page-turner that is thought-provoking, shocking and immensely readable.
A beautifully woven novel, A Mother’s Secret is an emotional rollercoaster ride from a talented writer to watch out for: Caroline Finnerty.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Aidan Whelan’s world changed in a heartbeat when he received the devastating news that his wife and daughter had been involved in a tragic accident. Aidan sees his perfect life shattering in front of his very eyes as he finds himself having to deal with this devastating trauma. However, when he gets to Dublin City Hospital, he realises that there is more to this story than he had initially thought…
Helena’s marriage to her husband James was far from perfect. They’ve been struggling for a very long time and Helena wonders whether they will ever manage to go back to how they were. However, Helena’s marriage problems fade into insignificance when she receives the heart-stopping news that James has been involved in car crash. Rushing to the hospital, she bumps into Aidan and discovers that his wife Rowan had been in the same vehicle as James at the time of the accident.
Why were Rowan and James in the same car? What was their connection? And what really happened that fateful morning? As Aidan and Helena try to solve this puzzle, they form a close bond and as secrets are uncovered and harsh realities faced, they start to wonder whether both of their families can be saved or whether it’s simply too late.
Caroline Finnerty’s A Mother’s Secret is a must-read for fans of Kate Hewitt and Diane Chamberlain. A complex, heart-wrenching and poignant tale about dangerous lies, devastating deceptions and the power of forgiveness, A Mother’s Secret is a subtly layered and highly involving page-turner that is thought-provoking, shocking and immensely readable.
A beautifully woven novel, A Mother’s Secret is an emotional rollercoaster ride from a talented writer to watch out for: Caroline Finnerty.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 5, 2022
First, I want to thank Caroline Finnerty, Boldwood Books, NetGalley and Rachel's Random Resources for providing me with this book to bring you this review.
O.M.G!! Grab a box of tissues and clear your schedule for Caroline Finnerty A Mother’s Secret! Caroline’s beautifully written story pulled hard on my heart strings so much that she made me ugly cry! Ohh how I love a book that can move me to tears! Caroline’s book is a 5 star must add to your TBR list.
Caroline would like to dedicate this book to her Dad. She thanks you for starting her love affair with books and supporting her in every way.
WOW!! Just WOW!! What a way to start off a book!!! MAN OH MAN my heart leapt out of my chest with this one! I literally felt like I was there watching everything unfold!! I knew right there and then that I was hooked line and sinker into the story and wouldn’t be able to put my Kindle down!
Oh how could you not fall in love with sweet Milly in A Mother’s Secret! She was the cutest and sweetest little girl ever! I loved how Caroline made her dialogue like a little girl would speak. My heart ached for her for so many different reasons. I wanted to hop inside the book and just give her a big hug!
I absolutely loved how this book seemed to have a little bit of everything such as important topics, mystery, suspense, secrets, drama, and heartbreak.
O.M.G!! Grab a box of tissues and clear your schedule for Caroline Finnerty A Mother’s Secret! Caroline’s beautifully written story pulled hard on my heart strings so much that she made me ugly cry! Ohh how I love a book that can move me to tears! Caroline’s book is a 5 star must add to your TBR list.
Caroline would like to dedicate this book to her Dad. She thanks you for starting her love affair with books and supporting her in every way.
WOW!! Just WOW!! What a way to start off a book!!! MAN OH MAN my heart leapt out of my chest with this one! I literally felt like I was there watching everything unfold!! I knew right there and then that I was hooked line and sinker into the story and wouldn’t be able to put my Kindle down!
Oh how could you not fall in love with sweet Milly in A Mother’s Secret! She was the cutest and sweetest little girl ever! I loved how Caroline made her dialogue like a little girl would speak. My heart ached for her for so many different reasons. I wanted to hop inside the book and just give her a big hug!
I absolutely loved how this book seemed to have a little bit of everything such as important topics, mystery, suspense, secrets, drama, and heartbreak.
February 8, 2022
What an absolutely heart rending book. A unique story of devastation that two families are left in through a sudden and awful accident that leaves one family without their Mother and one family with many questions. This story has 3 main characters , Helena, James and Aidan. Helena is a complex character who is utterly broken after her and James's attempts at beginning a family have finally come to an end. She has to come to terms with the fact she will never have a child. Her marriage is in a bit of turmoil, then her husband James is involved in a car crash. Why was he in the car with Rowan? (Aidan's wife) Will she ever forgive him when. lies and deceit come to light.
Aidan is devastated at the lose of his wife. His 3 children are totally lost and and on top of all that he has the most over bearing Father-in-law who puts him down at every opportunity. Can Aidan ever properly grieve for his beloved wife after learning secrets that he can not believe.
A wonderfully written book that draws you in to each of the characters lives. They each have a story to tell that we really get to know in depth, with compassion and understanding. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. A beautiful yet so very sad. tale. A story of family, love, loss and lies.
Aidan is devastated at the lose of his wife. His 3 children are totally lost and and on top of all that he has the most over bearing Father-in-law who puts him down at every opportunity. Can Aidan ever properly grieve for his beloved wife after learning secrets that he can not believe.
A wonderfully written book that draws you in to each of the characters lives. They each have a story to tell that we really get to know in depth, with compassion and understanding. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. A beautiful yet so very sad. tale. A story of family, love, loss and lies.
February 14, 2022
My first book by Caroline Finnerty.
I like how the story starts with Rowan’s perspective and suddenly she’s gone in a crash taking her secret with her!
Rowan’s husband, Aidan, not only has to deal with her death, little Maddie being in a coma and handling his two boys, but he’s confronted with the news that his wife cheated on him with James.
Helena, James’ wife, is already coping with the fact that she can’t have children and her husband’s attempt to look at a surrogate without her knowledge. Now she learns that James and Rowan had a sexual encounter. affair. Even though this was before they were married, she still feels cheated on. She also empathizes with Aidan and spends time relieving him with Maddie’s care at the hospital.
But something makes Helena probe further wondering if Maddie is James’ daughter. And there begins such a roller coaster of emotions – heartache, anger, love, struggles with parenting, selfishness and letting go….
I had to read straight through to see how the story was going to end. The author has dealt very well with the struggles of the main characters with trying to deal with their strong emotions and do what appears to be the right thing
A gripping tale and told with a lot of sensitivity.
I like how the story starts with Rowan’s perspective and suddenly she’s gone in a crash taking her secret with her!
Rowan’s husband, Aidan, not only has to deal with her death, little Maddie being in a coma and handling his two boys, but he’s confronted with the news that his wife cheated on him with James.
Helena, James’ wife, is already coping with the fact that she can’t have children and her husband’s attempt to look at a surrogate without her knowledge. Now she learns that James and Rowan had a sexual encounter. affair. Even though this was before they were married, she still feels cheated on. She also empathizes with Aidan and spends time relieving him with Maddie’s care at the hospital.
But something makes Helena probe further wondering if Maddie is James’ daughter. And there begins such a roller coaster of emotions – heartache, anger, love, struggles with parenting, selfishness and letting go….
I had to read straight through to see how the story was going to end. The author has dealt very well with the struggles of the main characters with trying to deal with their strong emotions and do what appears to be the right thing
A gripping tale and told with a lot of sensitivity.
February 15, 2022
Little secrets grow up into BIG lies…
A gripping, emotional book that asks the question: What does it take to be a parent?
Brand new from the bestselling author of The Last Days of Us.
This is the first book I have read written by this author and I am a new fan! I just added her other books to my TBR shelf on Goodreads. I was completely captivated by this novel about family and secrets, relationships and tragedies. There was so much to love about this book - the characters, the plot, the twists and turns, and of course the writing itself. I flew through this book quickly and easily and gobbled up every single word eagerly. A Mother’s Secret is quite emotional and my heartstrings were tugged often as I read about these poor families and what they endured. Though I did not completely agree with the decisions made by some of the characters, I was enraptured and curious about what the end results and fallout would be. I couldn’t help but wonder what I would do in some of these situations and what my life would be like. Secrets are almost never a good thing, and they often rear their head at some point causing a big mess to clean up. Secrets among family can be even more damaging and hurtful, such as what we saw between these two families.
A gripping, emotional book that asks the question: What does it take to be a parent?
Brand new from the bestselling author of The Last Days of Us.
This is the first book I have read written by this author and I am a new fan! I just added her other books to my TBR shelf on Goodreads. I was completely captivated by this novel about family and secrets, relationships and tragedies. There was so much to love about this book - the characters, the plot, the twists and turns, and of course the writing itself. I flew through this book quickly and easily and gobbled up every single word eagerly. A Mother’s Secret is quite emotional and my heartstrings were tugged often as I read about these poor families and what they endured. Though I did not completely agree with the decisions made by some of the characters, I was enraptured and curious about what the end results and fallout would be. I couldn’t help but wonder what I would do in some of these situations and what my life would be like. Secrets are almost never a good thing, and they often rear their head at some point causing a big mess to clean up. Secrets among family can be even more damaging and hurtful, such as what we saw between these two families.
February 22, 2022
🍃I saw this cover and title and as a new mother jumped on the chance to read this book… I was thinking this would be a cute motherhood story or maybe a memoir with some secrets I needed. I should have read the synopsis. Why do I always do that?
⠀
🍃This was nothing like what I was expecting. This book starts out sad and scary in Dublin, Ireland. James, Rowan, and Milly are in a car crash and all three are rushed to the hospital. BUT we don’t know why all three were in the car together. James’ wife is notified, and Rowan’s husband is notified.
Right from the start the reader is jarred into a state of what’s going on with this book.
⠀
🍃Helena is a General Practitioner Physician and she’s just had a miscarriage. She’s struggling so much that her office asked her to take a short leave of absence to get her emotional state together. Then she finds out her husband was in a car crash. My heart just broke for her.
⠀
🍃I don’t want to spoil any of the story so I’ll stop there. The characters were very deep and thought out. I was intrigued and confused by their backstory, and immediately wanted to know how the story would unfold.
⠀
🍃This was nothing like what I was expecting. This book starts out sad and scary in Dublin, Ireland. James, Rowan, and Milly are in a car crash and all three are rushed to the hospital. BUT we don’t know why all three were in the car together. James’ wife is notified, and Rowan’s husband is notified.
Right from the start the reader is jarred into a state of what’s going on with this book.
⠀
🍃Helena is a General Practitioner Physician and she’s just had a miscarriage. She’s struggling so much that her office asked her to take a short leave of absence to get her emotional state together. Then she finds out her husband was in a car crash. My heart just broke for her.
⠀
🍃I don’t want to spoil any of the story so I’ll stop there. The characters were very deep and thought out. I was intrigued and confused by their backstory, and immediately wanted to know how the story would unfold.
February 9, 2022
A Mother’s Secret by Caroline Finnerty is a heart wrenching contemporary novel about family, love and loss. It totally consumed me. This is a very emotional read about a family that is ripped apart by loss and secrets. There are many questions but no answers as the family is suspended in limbo.
A couple are also shattered by events as what was once solid ground is shaken.
There is the whole debate about nature or nurture – what is it that makes you a parent?
We witness the strong love of a three year old for her family. Caroline Finnerty has perfectly captured her mannerisms and speech patterns. Her bubbly personality lodged in my heart.
There is the difficult topic of infertility. Its impact on lives is painful to witness.
Caroline Finnerty has written a powerful tale that is all consuming. I could not put it down as it tugged at my heart. I look forward to reading much more by her.
I received a free copy via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
A couple are also shattered by events as what was once solid ground is shaken.
There is the whole debate about nature or nurture – what is it that makes you a parent?
We witness the strong love of a three year old for her family. Caroline Finnerty has perfectly captured her mannerisms and speech patterns. Her bubbly personality lodged in my heart.
There is the difficult topic of infertility. Its impact on lives is painful to witness.
Caroline Finnerty has written a powerful tale that is all consuming. I could not put it down as it tugged at my heart. I look forward to reading much more by her.
I received a free copy via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
August 24, 2022
I borrowed this book from Amazon Prime and despite it being an incredibly sad story I really enjoyed it.
Aidan Whelan’s life is turned upside down when he receives the devastating news that his wife and daughter had been involved in a tragic accident.
Helena’s marriage to her husband James was having issues due to ongoing fertility problems. They’ve been struggling for a very long time and Helena wonders whether they will ever manage to go back to how they were. However, Helena’s marriage problems fade into insignificance when she receives the news that James has been involved in car crash.
Rushing to the hospital, she bumps into Aidan and discovers that his wife Rowan had been in the same vehicle as James at the time of the accident. They are all asking … why were they together in the same car?
The author, Caroline Finnerty tells the story from the three main characters perspective and describes beautifully how the tragedy has impacted each of them differently.
An emotional read but one I would definitely recommend it.
Aidan Whelan’s life is turned upside down when he receives the devastating news that his wife and daughter had been involved in a tragic accident.
Helena’s marriage to her husband James was having issues due to ongoing fertility problems. They’ve been struggling for a very long time and Helena wonders whether they will ever manage to go back to how they were. However, Helena’s marriage problems fade into insignificance when she receives the news that James has been involved in car crash.
Rushing to the hospital, she bumps into Aidan and discovers that his wife Rowan had been in the same vehicle as James at the time of the accident. They are all asking … why were they together in the same car?
The author, Caroline Finnerty tells the story from the three main characters perspective and describes beautifully how the tragedy has impacted each of them differently.
An emotional read but one I would definitely recommend it.
March 2, 2023
Great book,about life changing in an instant.
A horrendous accident takes the life of a young mother & leaves a man & young child critically injured.
When a father rushes to the hospital after hearing about the wreck.
He finds that his wife has passed & his three yr.old daughter is in a coma.
He meets the wife of the man,also injured, who was a passenger in the car,that his wife was driving.
He later discovers,that his wife was unfaithful with this man & the young child,whom he thought was his,is in fact not !
Even though,the family has much to overcome during the months,following the death of his wife.The hardest thing to hear,is that the man in the car,decides to seek custody of the small child,upon finding out,he is,in fact,her biological father.
Upon devouring this book, & discovering how this all plays out,makes for a very interesting read,indeed !
A horrendous accident takes the life of a young mother & leaves a man & young child critically injured.
When a father rushes to the hospital after hearing about the wreck.
He finds that his wife has passed & his three yr.old daughter is in a coma.
He meets the wife of the man,also injured, who was a passenger in the car,that his wife was driving.
He later discovers,that his wife was unfaithful with this man & the young child,whom he thought was his,is in fact not !
Even though,the family has much to overcome during the months,following the death of his wife.The hardest thing to hear,is that the man in the car,decides to seek custody of the small child,upon finding out,he is,in fact,her biological father.
Upon devouring this book, & discovering how this all plays out,makes for a very interesting read,indeed !
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2022
I've read several of Caroline's books before, they are such amazing books. The stories they tell so realistic, the characters credible, and the stories stay with you long after you've finished turning the pages.
So beautifully written, the story is compelling, tragic and full of consequence.
I kind of got the idea where the story was going very early on, but it certainly didn't distract from my enjoyment of the book.
Heartbreaking, extremely emotional, and hard to read in places.
Many thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for my tour spot.
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
So beautifully written, the story is compelling, tragic and full of consequence.
I kind of got the idea where the story was going very early on, but it certainly didn't distract from my enjoyment of the book.
Heartbreaking, extremely emotional, and hard to read in places.
Many thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for my tour spot.
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
October 23, 2024
A MOTHER’S SECRET by Caroline Finnerty is a twisty work of women’s fiction where buried secrets come back to haunt two families and a one-night stand from years ago comes to light at a terrible time. Helena is a pediatrician who has been struggling with the infertility she and her husband James have been experiencing as they’ve been trying to conceive. She gets a call early one morning that James was in a serious car accident, and later learns that an old college friend, Rowan, was killed in the car accident. Rowan’s husband Aidan can’t figure out why James and Rowan were in the car together with his three-year-old daughter Milly, or why they were headed out of town. Until some blood work comes back with strange results.
This had all the expected ramifications of learning about Milly’s biological parentage one might expect, and was heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. I thought the impact shown on the other siblings in the family was especially well done. I enjoyed the read, found the pacing was good, and will definitely read more by this author. 5/5 stars.
This had all the expected ramifications of learning about Milly’s biological parentage one might expect, and was heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. I thought the impact shown on the other siblings in the family was especially well done. I enjoyed the read, found the pacing was good, and will definitely read more by this author. 5/5 stars.
January 23, 2022
This is the emotional story of two families. After a terrible car crash the two families meet in the hospital, at first not sure how they are connected to the crash.
It is heartbreaking to imagine what these two families are going through. I tried to see both sides and understand their reasoning. I’m glad the story ended the way it did. My favorite character was Aidan because of the strength he showed. I would recommend this book if you are looking for a quick, family focused read.
It is heartbreaking to imagine what these two families are going through. I tried to see both sides and understand their reasoning. I’m glad the story ended the way it did. My favorite character was Aidan because of the strength he showed. I would recommend this book if you are looking for a quick, family focused read.
August 16, 2022
Have a hanky ready!
Just discovered you Caroline. - what a wonderful read!
The storyline in this book just keeps you wanting to read more! I nearly read the book in one night but the matchsticks didn't keep my eyes open!
All I can say is this is a book for those who love a well written and carefully thought out storyline!
I am now off to Kindle to buy more of your books Caroline.
Just discovered you Caroline. - what a wonderful read!
The storyline in this book just keeps you wanting to read more! I nearly read the book in one night but the matchsticks didn't keep my eyes open!
All I can say is this is a book for those who love a well written and carefully thought out storyline!
I am now off to Kindle to buy more of your books Caroline.
November 12, 2022
Though the story was predictable from the beginning, It was very gripping. It became a challenge for me to put down. Though I perfectly guessed what was coming, still I found myself wanting to know the story from the writers words. That is what is known as captivating writing. She told a simple story in an extra ordinary way. All the characters were well developed, and each of their actions were consistent with their character graphs and made sense in the end.
October 7, 2024
What a wonderful story!
I just love a happy ending! I really didn’t expect it to turn out like it did for any of the people involved with death, misery, anger and loss. Loss of a loved one, and loss of what they believed to be the truth. Loss of the dreams that were had for the future. How one little girl played such an amazing part in transforming the future, without even knowing about the secret that could have torn everyone’s lives apart.
I just love a happy ending! I really didn’t expect it to turn out like it did for any of the people involved with death, misery, anger and loss. Loss of a loved one, and loss of what they believed to be the truth. Loss of the dreams that were had for the future. How one little girl played such an amazing part in transforming the future, without even knowing about the secret that could have torn everyone’s lives apart.
August 8, 2025
Once again I loved this author's book. I think I have just about exhausted the list of her books (apart from the one I have just downloaded). Her stories are never similar which is refreshing (I don't know where she gets her ideas from).
This book was no exception. You are slowly drawn in to the story and characters and makes you think what you would do in the same situation. Would highly recommend ☺️
This book was no exception. You are slowly drawn in to the story and characters and makes you think what you would do in the same situation. Would highly recommend ☺️
February 19, 2022
So many secrets through out this story. A tragic car accident will change so many lives. A heart wrenching story that kept me turning the pages. Loved all of the characters, expect one. Different POV from Aidan and Helena kept it very interesting. Loved the ending. This book takes place in Ireland.
This is the first book that I have read my Caroline Finnerty and will not be my last.
This is the first book that I have read my Caroline Finnerty and will not be my last.
July 24, 2022
The trials and tribulations of life!
This is my first book by this author. What an amazing story. So captivating. Full of love, hurt, anguish and the love of children. This book was hard to put down. Life is so unpredictable and there are no guarantees for tomorrow. Highly recommend this book. The best book I have read in a long time!
This is my first book by this author. What an amazing story. So captivating. Full of love, hurt, anguish and the love of children. This book was hard to put down. Life is so unpredictable and there are no guarantees for tomorrow. Highly recommend this book. The best book I have read in a long time!
March 30, 2023
a Mother's Secret
I,really enjoyed this book,I would recommend you to read it,
It's about a father that loses his wife in a horrible accident,and almost loses his daughter also,but he finds out a secret that his wife was keeping from him that could change the lives. Of his and his other children.let me tell you you must read this story to find out what happened
I,really enjoyed this book,I would recommend you to read it,
It's about a father that loses his wife in a horrible accident,and almost loses his daughter also,but he finds out a secret that his wife was keeping from him that could change the lives. Of his and his other children.let me tell you you must read this story to find out what happened
July 10, 2023
Great Read
There was nothing about this book that I disliked. It grabbed my attention from the beginning and kept my attention throughout the entire book. This book is definitely for the want to be parents that feel like there is no hope for people unable to have children for one reason or another. Always remember where there is a will there is a way.
There was nothing about this book that I disliked. It grabbed my attention from the beginning and kept my attention throughout the entire book. This book is definitely for the want to be parents that feel like there is no hope for people unable to have children for one reason or another. Always remember where there is a will there is a way.
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