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Secrets Between Friends
The old house hides her darkest secret—and there’s no running away this time…
Twenty years ago, Liz left Easthaven to escape the memory of one tragic night at Lakewell Manor. Only she and her best friend Tamsin saw what really happened, and in the aftermath they drifted apart. Now she’s forced back after a nasty divorce, with two daughters in tow, the shadows of that terrible night lurking on every corner. With a custody battle looming, she’s one wrong move away from her life falling apart completely.
So when news arrives that Tamsin, too, is returning to Easthaven, Liz fears their reunion will bring the awful truth spilling out into the open. But when she finally meets Tamsin, now mistress of the clifftop house whose locked gates have guarded the friends’ secret all these years, she’s in for a surprise. Tamsin looks different, and she doesn’t remember Liz, let alone what happened that night…
Something is clearly wrong. But confronting Tamsin means reliving the nightmare Liz has been running from for twenty years. Can she risk exposing what happened that night, knowing that the truth will destroy everything?
Twenty years ago, Liz left Easthaven to escape the memory of one tragic night at Lakewell Manor. Only she and her best friend Tamsin saw what really happened, and in the aftermath they drifted apart. Now she’s forced back after a nasty divorce, with two daughters in tow, the shadows of that terrible night lurking on every corner. With a custody battle looming, she’s one wrong move away from her life falling apart completely.
So when news arrives that Tamsin, too, is returning to Easthaven, Liz fears their reunion will bring the awful truth spilling out into the open. But when she finally meets Tamsin, now mistress of the clifftop house whose locked gates have guarded the friends’ secret all these years, she’s in for a surprise. Tamsin looks different, and she doesn’t remember Liz, let alone what happened that night…
Something is clearly wrong. But confronting Tamsin means reliving the nightmare Liz has been running from for twenty years. Can she risk exposing what happened that night, knowing that the truth will destroy everything?
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 25, 2022
465 people are currently reading
4121 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Buchanan
22 books597 followersHello! Fab to see you here. I live in Buckinghamshire, UK with my husband, my little girl and our (very naughty) puppy, Bronte.
I travelled extensively while working as a travel magazine editor, and have always been drawn to the sea after spending my childhood holidays on the south coast visiting family – a fascination that inspires my writing.
I now dedicate my time to writing and procrastinating on Facebook.
I'd love to hear from you so please come say hi on one of the following platforms... plus if you join The Reading Snug I've set up with fellow authors, Kelly Rimmer and Kerry Fisher, you might even bag yourself some freebies including an early copy of my latest novel, The Lost Sister!
https://www.facebook.com/TracyBuchana...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheRe...
https://www.instagram.com/TracyBuchan...
https://twitter.com/TracyBuchanan
https://www.tracy-buchanan.com
I travelled extensively while working as a travel magazine editor, and have always been drawn to the sea after spending my childhood holidays on the south coast visiting family – a fascination that inspires my writing.
I now dedicate my time to writing and procrastinating on Facebook.
I'd love to hear from you so please come say hi on one of the following platforms... plus if you join The Reading Snug I've set up with fellow authors, Kelly Rimmer and Kerry Fisher, you might even bag yourself some freebies including an early copy of my latest novel, The Lost Sister!
https://www.facebook.com/TracyBuchana...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheRe...
https://www.instagram.com/TracyBuchan...
https://twitter.com/TracyBuchanan
https://www.tracy-buchanan.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 233 reviews
February 27, 2023
I give this book a 3.5. I enjoyed the main character, Liz, who was a woman who has a lot of emotional baggage. When her teenage best friend, Tamsin moves back the secrets from their past threaten to become exposed. I found the story to be very interesting, though I figured out most of the twists. All in all an enjoyable read.
October 25, 2022
Elizabeth “Liz” Barrowman left Easthaven twenty years ago after a tragic incident occurred at Lakewell Manor, home of Liz’s best friend, Tamsin Lakewell. She ran to Manchester and started a career in journalism, her lifelong dream. Now after a bitter divorce, she returns to the love-starved place she called home as a child with her own two children, Ruby, sixteen, and Mia, twelve. Her ex-husband Scott Thomson has decided to pursue full custody of their two children, and Liz is only one wrong move from losing them, which will destroy her completely. Her children are her life—well, that, plus taking care of her incredibly ungrateful mother, and her job. She is employed as a mail carrier, and takes scenic photos along her route, posting them to social media under the anonymous handle “The Jolly Postie.” Also traveling along with Liz is her ever-present notebook, where she makes daily notes of the things she sees and hears as she has from her childhood days. Along her route, she notices movement at the Lakewell Manor, and recognizes Tamsin in the garden. She speaks with her, sensing things between them immediately warm, just like their childhood. She meets the new fiancé with whom Tamsin is completely smitten, and it seems mutual. However, the next day, Tamsin not only looks different, she doesn’t seem to remember Liz at all. Liz knows something is very wrong, but confronting this imposter now means the risk of exposing her involvement in the horrific occurrence from all those years ago, and losing everything she holds dear.
“Secrets Between Friends” is a stunningly written book, chock full of descriptive and gorgeous poetic prose (to wit: “There is something almost hypnotic about the sight of his body being carried away by the sea, especially when it’s a body as perfect as his. Beautiful dark hair spread out around a pristine, pale face. The sea, his new lover now, lifts him gently, so gently it is as though he is sleeping as his arms bob above his head, the huge moon watching like a concerned parent.”) There is no mistaking the time, place, situation, and emotion the author, Tracey Buchanan, is conveying. It is a fast-paced novel of heartbreak and humor, information and emotion, joy and sorrow which are all elegantly portrayed here, deftly compared and contrasted, allowing readers to be in the position of each of her characters in turn. We are lifted as with the sea, both wafted and propelled along with the storyline to the suspense-filled plot through the beautiful climax, we feel the tension and release as they happen through the written words before our eyes. It was an all-encompassing, emotional and cathartic read, and one I highly recommend to all other readers who enjoy the genres of suspense, mystery, and fiction to devour as I did.
I’d like to thank BookSprout, Tracey Buchanan, and Lake Union Publishing for the ability to read and review this ARC.
“Secrets Between Friends” is a stunningly written book, chock full of descriptive and gorgeous poetic prose (to wit: “There is something almost hypnotic about the sight of his body being carried away by the sea, especially when it’s a body as perfect as his. Beautiful dark hair spread out around a pristine, pale face. The sea, his new lover now, lifts him gently, so gently it is as though he is sleeping as his arms bob above his head, the huge moon watching like a concerned parent.”) There is no mistaking the time, place, situation, and emotion the author, Tracey Buchanan, is conveying. It is a fast-paced novel of heartbreak and humor, information and emotion, joy and sorrow which are all elegantly portrayed here, deftly compared and contrasted, allowing readers to be in the position of each of her characters in turn. We are lifted as with the sea, both wafted and propelled along with the storyline to the suspense-filled plot through the beautiful climax, we feel the tension and release as they happen through the written words before our eyes. It was an all-encompassing, emotional and cathartic read, and one I highly recommend to all other readers who enjoy the genres of suspense, mystery, and fiction to devour as I did.
I’d like to thank BookSprout, Tracey Buchanan, and Lake Union Publishing for the ability to read and review this ARC.
August 4, 2024
What a captivating book! I stayed up until the wee hours just to finish this. It was nearly ideal in so many aspects other than for the use of the name of Jesus as a curse word unfortunately.
This was a perfect length (under/around 300 pages ) for my taste as not too long nor tedious as I don't have the same patience nor as much inclination to tackle them these years. It wasn't a chore per say to continue for I was so intrigued with all the twists and turns, wondering how some connections were forged and what was behind the tangled situation. I was quite pleased with how the ending was; no chopped nor abrupt one thankfully.
I found this a satisfying read indeed for this was a new to me author that passed my "test" of one chance and so I will gladly read more by her! ** A neat bonus I found was being set in the UK with the different words and expressions used by the British people as I love that**
This was a perfect length (under/around 300 pages ) for my taste as not too long nor tedious as I don't have the same patience nor as much inclination to tackle them these years. It wasn't a chore per say to continue for I was so intrigued with all the twists and turns, wondering how some connections were forged and what was behind the tangled situation. I was quite pleased with how the ending was; no chopped nor abrupt one thankfully.
I found this a satisfying read indeed for this was a new to me author that passed my "test" of one chance and so I will gladly read more by her! ** A neat bonus I found was being set in the UK with the different words and expressions used by the British people as I love that**
August 26, 2023
Liz Barrowman has returned to her home fishing village of Easthaven to stay with her mother, after a nasty divorce and looming custody battle.
She had been best friends with Tamsin who had lived in a mansion up on the cliffs, until a bad experience caused her to leave the area as a teenager.
Rumour has it that Tamsin has also returned and Liz is keen to rekindle their friendship. But Tamsin looks different and she doesn't remember Liz. Something is clearly wrong.
This is a gripping suspense mystery with dual timelines, secrets, lies and nothing is as it appears.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
She had been best friends with Tamsin who had lived in a mansion up on the cliffs, until a bad experience caused her to leave the area as a teenager.
Rumour has it that Tamsin has also returned and Liz is keen to rekindle their friendship. But Tamsin looks different and she doesn't remember Liz. Something is clearly wrong.
This is a gripping suspense mystery with dual timelines, secrets, lies and nothing is as it appears.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 13, 2022
It was an ok book.
I didn’t really relate to any of the characters and I didn’t feel like they were very well fresher out. Most of the motivations were also questionable and not really fully made sense to me.
However, it was an easy read and I did want to pick it up to finish it, which is saying something :)
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
I didn’t really relate to any of the characters and I didn’t feel like they were very well fresher out. Most of the motivations were also questionable and not really fully made sense to me.
However, it was an easy read and I did want to pick it up to finish it, which is saying something :)
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
November 11, 2022
Such a nice little mystery! I had the ARC to this and didn't get into it but I just listened to the audio and hate I missed out earlier!
Liz is postal employee who posts pictures along her route, which includes the home of her best friend from her teenage years. The house has seen better days because her friend moved away 20 years ago.
Suddenly she sees that Tamsin has returned to the house with a new man to grieve her recently deceased mother. Liz is reluctant to speak with her but once she does, they laugh, chat and catch up and she can't wait to see her old friend again so the next day, she happens upon the house and the person saying they're Tamsin doesn't appear to be the same person she talked to yesterday.
Is it a stranger? Do Liz's eyes deceive her or is someone posing as Tamsin? Tamsin is a recluse so not many people would notice. We know something happened to spur the getaway 20 years ago so it stands to reason this is the past coming back for Liz and Tamsin. Some secrets just won't stay buried.
Liz is postal employee who posts pictures along her route, which includes the home of her best friend from her teenage years. The house has seen better days because her friend moved away 20 years ago.
Suddenly she sees that Tamsin has returned to the house with a new man to grieve her recently deceased mother. Liz is reluctant to speak with her but once she does, they laugh, chat and catch up and she can't wait to see her old friend again so the next day, she happens upon the house and the person saying they're Tamsin doesn't appear to be the same person she talked to yesterday.
Is it a stranger? Do Liz's eyes deceive her or is someone posing as Tamsin? Tamsin is a recluse so not many people would notice. We know something happened to spur the getaway 20 years ago so it stands to reason this is the past coming back for Liz and Tamsin. Some secrets just won't stay buried.
September 18, 2022
Book Title: Secrets Between Friends
Author: Tracy Buchanan
Publisher: Amazon Publishing UK ~ Lake Union Publishing
Genre: Mystery
Pub Date: October 25, 2022
My Rating: 3.3 Stars
Twenty years ago, Liz became friends with Tamsin, who welcomes her to her home in Lakewell Manor. There, Liz finds everything she isn’t getting at home – friendship, maternal comfort with Tamsin’s mother, and even a budding romance.
However, something happens that destroys all these relationships.
Now two decades later, Liz is a postal carrier and is able to watch the residents of Easthaven while she delivers the mail. Tamsin has just returned to their small town, but something about her seems more than just a little off.
The characters in this were indeed unique, some are fakes, and most are unlikeable including our protagonist ‘Postie’ Liz. I am sure any mail carrier can write stories about the folks living in their area but it probably is a good idea not to do so!!!
Have to admit they kept me curious. I did enjoy it ~ well most of it.
I did enjoy reading the authors acknowledgments and was sorry to hear about the death of Ms. Buchanan mother, who died of lung cancer. She mentions that is was difficult writing while she was experiencing such grief but her supporters kept her going. She writes more about this in her blog “The Sunny Spot”.
Want to thank NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK ~ Lake Union Publishing for this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for October 25, 2022
Author: Tracy Buchanan
Publisher: Amazon Publishing UK ~ Lake Union Publishing
Genre: Mystery
Pub Date: October 25, 2022
My Rating: 3.3 Stars
Twenty years ago, Liz became friends with Tamsin, who welcomes her to her home in Lakewell Manor. There, Liz finds everything she isn’t getting at home – friendship, maternal comfort with Tamsin’s mother, and even a budding romance.
However, something happens that destroys all these relationships.
Now two decades later, Liz is a postal carrier and is able to watch the residents of Easthaven while she delivers the mail. Tamsin has just returned to their small town, but something about her seems more than just a little off.
The characters in this were indeed unique, some are fakes, and most are unlikeable including our protagonist ‘Postie’ Liz. I am sure any mail carrier can write stories about the folks living in their area but it probably is a good idea not to do so!!!
Have to admit they kept me curious. I did enjoy it ~ well most of it.
I did enjoy reading the authors acknowledgments and was sorry to hear about the death of Ms. Buchanan mother, who died of lung cancer. She mentions that is was difficult writing while she was experiencing such grief but her supporters kept her going. She writes more about this in her blog “The Sunny Spot”.
Want to thank NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK ~ Lake Union Publishing for this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for October 25, 2022
October 25, 2022
Tracy Buchanan's —SECRETS BETWEEN FRIENDS is a gripping suspense mystery with dual timelines with dark secrets, lies, and friendship where nothing is as it appears.
Liz Barrowman left Easthaven twenty years earlier after a tragedy that occurred at Lakewell Manor—a cliffside home of her best friend, Tamsin Lakewell.
A career in journalism which was her dream—was cut short due to her divorce (terrible husband). She returns to her home with her two children and takes a job as a postal carrier, living with her horrible mean mother.
Liz soon learns her former BFF, Tamsin, now a famous poet, has also returned to the same town with her fiancé. Liz has not seen her since that horrible night 20 years since Gabe died.
Something appears off the day after she reconnects with Tamsin; she is a different person than the one she sees the next day. What is going on?
She is determined to solve the mystery. (lots of drama here) Who is Fake Tamsin, and what has she done with Tamsin? Is the secret Liz and Tamsin have hidden for over 20 years about to destroy them?
Written in the first person POV of Liz, now and twenty years ago. Not a lot of likable characters, especially the emotionally abusive mother. Liz comes across as being flawed, and nosey (sleuthing) with all her note-keeping, but in the end, she is tenacious.
I was drawn to the front cover (love old seaside homes) as appeared to be very atmospheric, thinking it may be similar to a Carol Goodman psychological thriller. However, unfortunately, it was not. For me, SECRETS BETWEEN FRIENDS seemed more of a cozy mystery with a lot of drama.
Set in England, the book is written in the first person present tense POV of Liz Barrowman, now and 20 years ago when Liz and Tamsin were both sixteen and were best friends. I preferred the earlier timeline versus the present.
For readers who enjoy a lighthearted mystery. My first book by the author, and look forward to reading more. The audiobook was narrated by Natalie Beran for an engaging performance.
Blog Review Posted @
www.JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 3.5 Stars
Pub Date: Oct 25, 2022
Oct 2022 Must-Read Books
Liz Barrowman left Easthaven twenty years earlier after a tragedy that occurred at Lakewell Manor—a cliffside home of her best friend, Tamsin Lakewell.
A career in journalism which was her dream—was cut short due to her divorce (terrible husband). She returns to her home with her two children and takes a job as a postal carrier, living with her horrible mean mother.
Liz soon learns her former BFF, Tamsin, now a famous poet, has also returned to the same town with her fiancé. Liz has not seen her since that horrible night 20 years since Gabe died.
Something appears off the day after she reconnects with Tamsin; she is a different person than the one she sees the next day. What is going on?
She is determined to solve the mystery. (lots of drama here) Who is Fake Tamsin, and what has she done with Tamsin? Is the secret Liz and Tamsin have hidden for over 20 years about to destroy them?
Written in the first person POV of Liz, now and twenty years ago. Not a lot of likable characters, especially the emotionally abusive mother. Liz comes across as being flawed, and nosey (sleuthing) with all her note-keeping, but in the end, she is tenacious.
I was drawn to the front cover (love old seaside homes) as appeared to be very atmospheric, thinking it may be similar to a Carol Goodman psychological thriller. However, unfortunately, it was not. For me, SECRETS BETWEEN FRIENDS seemed more of a cozy mystery with a lot of drama.
Set in England, the book is written in the first person present tense POV of Liz Barrowman, now and 20 years ago when Liz and Tamsin were both sixteen and were best friends. I preferred the earlier timeline versus the present.
For readers who enjoy a lighthearted mystery. My first book by the author, and look forward to reading more. The audiobook was narrated by Natalie Beran for an engaging performance.
Blog Review Posted @
www.JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 3.5 Stars
Pub Date: Oct 25, 2022
Oct 2022 Must-Read Books
November 20, 2022
This is a story about characters pretending to be other folks; one of them died years ago and the other is very much alive and is seeking to kill folks who live in the village. Thrown into the mix is a local wealthy landlord who threatens the lead character with evicting her and her family for refusing to carry out a criminal act.
The heroine weaves her way thru these complex circumstances searching for the truth and at times ending up in a heap of trouble.
This review was written by Shawn Callon, author of The Simon Montfort Spy Series.
The heroine weaves her way thru these complex circumstances searching for the truth and at times ending up in a heap of trouble.
This review was written by Shawn Callon, author of The Simon Montfort Spy Series.
October 26, 2022
This is my fourth novel by Tracy Buchanan I think I can safely claim that this talented author is a bit of a favourite. Liz Barrowman has returned to her home fishing village of Easthaven, the place she and her friend, Tamsin Lakewell left twenty years ago. Liz is facing a custody battle over her two daughters and an acrimonious divorce and feels she has no place else to go. Easthaven is the last place she wants to be, living with her mother. Postal worker, Liz is informed by a neighbour that Tamsin is back too and the women meet again but Tamsin has changed, in appearance as well as behaviour...
Deeply engrossing, I really enjoyed reading Secrets Between Friends. Told in past and present format, I could not stop turning the pages of this intense tale. Mysterious and unpredictable, this is one you shouldn't overlook.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Lake Union Publishing via NetGalley at my request and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
Deeply engrossing, I really enjoyed reading Secrets Between Friends. Told in past and present format, I could not stop turning the pages of this intense tale. Mysterious and unpredictable, this is one you shouldn't overlook.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Lake Union Publishing via NetGalley at my request and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
January 19, 2026
I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Oh, Secrets Between Friends was a fast paced mystery book. In this, you will meet Liz who has come back to town after a nasty divorce. Sure, she is licking her wounds and trying to prepare for the custody battle from hell. She has a lot on her plate so it's only fair that weird things start happening soon after her arrival.
For the most part, I liked Liz. I really wished she had a stronger backbone because I hated how some people treated her. Though I did appreciate her relationship with her daughters. Now that put a smile on my face. Everything else going on, like the twists and turns, had me suspicious of everyone.
The dual timelines definitely made this a page turner. I liked getting to know what happened when she was younger and then what was going on now. The ending was really good too. I liked how everything was tied up into a pretty bow and I had all my questions answered. Will definitely add more books written by Tracy to my TBR stat!
Oh, Secrets Between Friends was a fast paced mystery book. In this, you will meet Liz who has come back to town after a nasty divorce. Sure, she is licking her wounds and trying to prepare for the custody battle from hell. She has a lot on her plate so it's only fair that weird things start happening soon after her arrival.
For the most part, I liked Liz. I really wished she had a stronger backbone because I hated how some people treated her. Though I did appreciate her relationship with her daughters. Now that put a smile on my face. Everything else going on, like the twists and turns, had me suspicious of everyone.
The dual timelines definitely made this a page turner. I liked getting to know what happened when she was younger and then what was going on now. The ending was really good too. I liked how everything was tied up into a pretty bow and I had all my questions answered. Will definitely add more books written by Tracy to my TBR stat!
September 2, 2022
Thanks NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK and Tracy Buchanan for the opportunity to read this book!. 20 years ago three friends meet and things go wrong. The book alternates between the past and present lives of Liz, Tamsin and Gabe.
I really enjoyed reading this, it was full of surprises. Totally a 5⭐️ read!
January 12, 2024
Liz sees the return of an old friend, Tamsin, to a small seaside town. They share a secret from twenty years before that seems to be coming apart at the seams.
While the plot was solid and well thought out, the devil is in the details, and there were problems with the characters , dialogue, and some ideas didn't pan out well.
******Spoilers*******
Liz wasn't sure that Tamsin had been replaced with someone else even though she spoke to her before the body switch. However, she managed to recognise Gwen from a photo even without wig and makeup. Did Gwen really look that much like Tamsin to be able cause such a confusion? Gwen looks like Tamsin and Carl looks like Gabe. Really?
Gabe replaced the ring with an duplicated fake. How was that even possible? A fake that good would still cost a lot of money, which Gabe presumably did not have.
Tamsin was in love with Carl who was a ringer for Gabe. Wouldn't she question that? What a coincidence that Gwen happened to be Carl's girlfriend and Gabe's sister and enter Tamsin's life to swindle her again. And Gwen was dating Carl who looked like a grown up Gabe. Insest much ? I think it would have been more reasonable to have Carl be one of her six brothers than her lover.
Liz was very Harriet the Spy, and it was vague about all the trouble she had got up to previously. She seemed like a great person, albeit too sweet and patient when it came to her mother. And too silly when it came to her notebook and snooping.
Scott at the end turned out to be sweet. Really? After all his weasely antics we are supposed to buy that he had such a change of heart?
Lester swooped in at the last minute to help save the day. How convenient that he was on hand to give his testimony about how Gabe really died, and the police were on hand to hear all of it.
******** End of spoilers *******
These situations, amongst many more of them, were just poorly done. The story itself is great but many details are not tight enough or explained well. This feels like an uncorrected first draft that still needs to be polished (and maybe it is still in the editing stage), but the potential for it to be great is there.
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to advance read.
While the plot was solid and well thought out, the devil is in the details, and there were problems with the characters , dialogue, and some ideas didn't pan out well.
******Spoilers*******
Liz wasn't sure that Tamsin had been replaced with someone else even though she spoke to her before the body switch. However, she managed to recognise Gwen from a photo even without wig and makeup. Did Gwen really look that much like Tamsin to be able cause such a confusion? Gwen looks like Tamsin and Carl looks like Gabe. Really?
Gabe replaced the ring with an duplicated fake. How was that even possible? A fake that good would still cost a lot of money, which Gabe presumably did not have.
Tamsin was in love with Carl who was a ringer for Gabe. Wouldn't she question that? What a coincidence that Gwen happened to be Carl's girlfriend and Gabe's sister and enter Tamsin's life to swindle her again. And Gwen was dating Carl who looked like a grown up Gabe. Insest much ? I think it would have been more reasonable to have Carl be one of her six brothers than her lover.
Liz was very Harriet the Spy, and it was vague about all the trouble she had got up to previously. She seemed like a great person, albeit too sweet and patient when it came to her mother. And too silly when it came to her notebook and snooping.
Scott at the end turned out to be sweet. Really? After all his weasely antics we are supposed to buy that he had such a change of heart?
Lester swooped in at the last minute to help save the day. How convenient that he was on hand to give his testimony about how Gabe really died, and the police were on hand to hear all of it.
******** End of spoilers *******
These situations, amongst many more of them, were just poorly done. The story itself is great but many details are not tight enough or explained well. This feels like an uncorrected first draft that still needs to be polished (and maybe it is still in the editing stage), but the potential for it to be great is there.
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to advance read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2022
Secrets Between Friends was my first Tracy Buchanan novel and I absolutely loved it! This dual timeline suspense mystery, with a dash of romance, contains two threads that are twenty years apart. All of it is riveting. From the first paragraph I was reeled in and knew I needed to read more. It is one of those books you just cannot put down once you start because it is so captivating. The suspense truly kept me on the edge of my seat!
The story circles around Liz and Tamsin who are great friends sharing a shocking secret they have carried for twenty years. They have both been away from home all this time but various circumstances bring them back to the town and house that holds a mystery from their past. They refresh their friendship but their sweet reunion is short lived because on their next visit, things quickly turn bizarre. Something is very wrong with Liz's old friend, Tamsin.
The standard of writing in this novel is superb. I was instantly swept into the plot and transported to the setting. I could visualise everything and hear the whispers and the waves! The main characters, as well as the supporting ones, are well developed (including the few colourful villains!).
There are some very intriguing twists and turns in the plot that you won't see coming for Tracy keeps you guessing at what's around the next corner. She delivers a great ending, too, while expressing the highs and lows of families, friendships, secrets and loves. Also, while Liz faces her fears she is able to solve the mysteries and set things right. There are lots of surprises that rise to the surface to keep you in awe. I cannot recommend this novel enough and I will be reading more of Tracy’s books for sure. 5 Stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The story circles around Liz and Tamsin who are great friends sharing a shocking secret they have carried for twenty years. They have both been away from home all this time but various circumstances bring them back to the town and house that holds a mystery from their past. They refresh their friendship but their sweet reunion is short lived because on their next visit, things quickly turn bizarre. Something is very wrong with Liz's old friend, Tamsin.
The standard of writing in this novel is superb. I was instantly swept into the plot and transported to the setting. I could visualise everything and hear the whispers and the waves! The main characters, as well as the supporting ones, are well developed (including the few colourful villains!).
There are some very intriguing twists and turns in the plot that you won't see coming for Tracy keeps you guessing at what's around the next corner. She delivers a great ending, too, while expressing the highs and lows of families, friendships, secrets and loves. Also, while Liz faces her fears she is able to solve the mysteries and set things right. There are lots of surprises that rise to the surface to keep you in awe. I cannot recommend this novel enough and I will be reading more of Tracy’s books for sure. 5 Stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 27, 2022
Many thanks to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK, Lake Union Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller/mystery by Tracy Buchanan - 4 stars!
The prologue takes place 20 years ago at Lakewell Manor, where a young man has plunged into the sea to his death - that event split up best friends Liz and Tasmin. In the present, Liz is back in her hometown, living with her two children and her abusive mother, as she is embroiled in a custody fight with her ex. Liz had to give up her career as a journalist and is now working as a "postie" - delivering mail and packages in her neighborhood. She keeps a notebook of all the comings and goings in the neighborhood and sees activity at Lakewell Manor, she encounters her old friend. But on the next visit, Tasmin has changed and Liz knows something is terribly wrong.
The story plays out between past and present from different viewpoints. This was a good mystery and Liz was a somewhat haphazard but fun character. She was loyal to her friend and was desperate to find answers. There were a few moments where credulity is stretched, but it doesn't detract too much from the storyline. I've always enjoyed Buchanan's books and this one is another good read!
The prologue takes place 20 years ago at Lakewell Manor, where a young man has plunged into the sea to his death - that event split up best friends Liz and Tasmin. In the present, Liz is back in her hometown, living with her two children and her abusive mother, as she is embroiled in a custody fight with her ex. Liz had to give up her career as a journalist and is now working as a "postie" - delivering mail and packages in her neighborhood. She keeps a notebook of all the comings and goings in the neighborhood and sees activity at Lakewell Manor, she encounters her old friend. But on the next visit, Tasmin has changed and Liz knows something is terribly wrong.
The story plays out between past and present from different viewpoints. This was a good mystery and Liz was a somewhat haphazard but fun character. She was loyal to her friend and was desperate to find answers. There were a few moments where credulity is stretched, but it doesn't detract too much from the storyline. I've always enjoyed Buchanan's books and this one is another good read!
November 11, 2022
This was a fun and fast-paced read. The story centers on Liz, who returns home to stay with her mom after a nasty divorce and looming custody battle She had been best friends with Tamsin, who lives in a mansion up on the cliffs, until a bad shared experience caused her to leave the area as a teenager. Turns out that Tamsin is also back in town and Liz feels like their friendship could be rekindled, but then weird things start happening and it's clear that someone knows about Liz's secret from all those years ago. The book goes back and forth between current times and that fateful summer when Liz was younger.
Liz was a mostly likeable character, though I couldn't understand how she could possibly put up with the way her mother treated her- it was sad. The relationship between her and her daughters was very heartwarming. I also appreciated her doggedness to keep pushing when she felt something was wrong with Tamsin but everyone thought she was crazy. There were a couple good twists in the story and I found myself having ah-ha moments right along with the characters. The author did a good job at tying up the loose ends and making connections between various parts of the story. I found the end to be satisfying, though was on the verge of suspending disbelief.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and thought it was unique and memorable. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Liz was a mostly likeable character, though I couldn't understand how she could possibly put up with the way her mother treated her- it was sad. The relationship between her and her daughters was very heartwarming. I also appreciated her doggedness to keep pushing when she felt something was wrong with Tamsin but everyone thought she was crazy. There were a couple good twists in the story and I found myself having ah-ha moments right along with the characters. The author did a good job at tying up the loose ends and making connections between various parts of the story. I found the end to be satisfying, though was on the verge of suspending disbelief.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and thought it was unique and memorable. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 13, 2022
Another great read from Tracy Buchanan.
Liz has returned home to her mother (and toxic mother daughter relationship) with her two girls after her marriage breakdown. In her job as a postie, she makes many observations of the local community.
When she hears that her old friend from her teenage days is returning home, she is not sure how to feel as they are bound by a dreadful secret. But she meets Tasmin again and the years fall away but the next day ‘ Tasmin’ doesn’t seem to remember the previous day, in fact she is just different and Liz is convinced there is an imposter.
Told in two time lines which are very easy to follow, I really flew through this book as it was a very easy read. I’m not sure I totally really liked Liz, at times she frustrated me.
I enjoyed how everything unfolded though and it was a satisfying resolution.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy to read.
Liz has returned home to her mother (and toxic mother daughter relationship) with her two girls after her marriage breakdown. In her job as a postie, she makes many observations of the local community.
When she hears that her old friend from her teenage days is returning home, she is not sure how to feel as they are bound by a dreadful secret. But she meets Tasmin again and the years fall away but the next day ‘ Tasmin’ doesn’t seem to remember the previous day, in fact she is just different and Liz is convinced there is an imposter.
Told in two time lines which are very easy to follow, I really flew through this book as it was a very easy read. I’m not sure I totally really liked Liz, at times she frustrated me.
I enjoyed how everything unfolded though and it was a satisfying resolution.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy to read.
October 4, 2022
This is a well written book with strong characters and an intense storyline. The author weaves a story of three friends and alternates between their past and present lives. It's an intriguing story that had me glued to the pages right to the end. She moves the story fluidly with her detailed and descriptive scenes and delivers a fantastic story. Loved and recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
October 25, 2022
A good mystery with references to past that impact the present. I loved the atmosphere, the well developed characters, and the mystery kept me guessing.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
November 14, 2022
This book was a fantastic read. It kept me coming back for more. I didn't want to put it down but when I did I couldn't wait to get back to it. I thought I knew what was going to happen but I didn't in the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 2, 2022
What an enjoyable read! Atmospheric and quirky, this is a mystery worth reading. Quite a few odd characters, some plain awful (Liz's mother, ugh), and some charming. I highly recommend.
4 stars.
Thanks to NetGally, Tracy Buchanan and Lake Union Publishing.
4 stars.
Thanks to NetGally, Tracy Buchanan and Lake Union Publishing.
August 19, 2022
So first thing first, I really really enjoyed this story, it was highly captivating, dramatic, intense and emotional in places, i could not turn those pages fast enough, just brilliant. It truly was well written and the characters are all so very well portrayed and believable.
There is a mix bag of characters in the story, all of whom I enjoyed getting to know and then trying to figure out if they were being honest, lying, untrustworthy or up to know good. There were times when I just didn’t know who to believe.
I liked how the talk was told from the past and the present, it really gives the story depth as well as being immersed in the background story of the past. I absolutely loved the mystery side to the story and couldn’t wait to see how the story played out and how the mystery became solved.
So if you are looking for a mystery sort of story that evolves around a tragic event in the past that never goes away in the small community of Easthaven and comes back for its revenge in the present, then look no further and be sure to give this book a go.
There is a mix bag of characters in the story, all of whom I enjoyed getting to know and then trying to figure out if they were being honest, lying, untrustworthy or up to know good. There were times when I just didn’t know who to believe.
I liked how the talk was told from the past and the present, it really gives the story depth as well as being immersed in the background story of the past. I absolutely loved the mystery side to the story and couldn’t wait to see how the story played out and how the mystery became solved.
So if you are looking for a mystery sort of story that evolves around a tragic event in the past that never goes away in the small community of Easthaven and comes back for its revenge in the present, then look no further and be sure to give this book a go.
November 20, 2022
This was really hard to get into and there was almost nothing original about it. I knew the ending about four chapters in and I was spot on. It made me lose most of my interest way too early and finishing it became a slog.
The story follows Liz who is a postie in the same town she grew up in. On her route one day she realizes her old friend, Tamsin, has moved back in and she reconnects with her. However the very next day when she sees her again, Tamsin doesn’t appear to recognize her at all. Liz is confused and worried because she and Tamsin have a deep secret and if she decides to investigate further this secret might come out and destroy a lot of lives.
All the characters are pretty one note. If they seem bad, you can bet they are. On top of which the ending is a hurried hot mess. The confession comes at the perfect time when the police just so happen to be watching and a witness just so happens to be able to corroborate. It felt a bit amateurish. It might just be this author isn’t for me.
The story follows Liz who is a postie in the same town she grew up in. On her route one day she realizes her old friend, Tamsin, has moved back in and she reconnects with her. However the very next day when she sees her again, Tamsin doesn’t appear to recognize her at all. Liz is confused and worried because she and Tamsin have a deep secret and if she decides to investigate further this secret might come out and destroy a lot of lives.
All the characters are pretty one note. If they seem bad, you can bet they are. On top of which the ending is a hurried hot mess. The confession comes at the perfect time when the police just so happen to be watching and a witness just so happens to be able to corroborate. It felt a bit amateurish. It might just be this author isn’t for me.
August 10, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for the copy of Secrets Between Friends. This is the third book I have read by Tracy Buchanan and my favorite so far. The writing was so good I couldn’t wait to see where the story was going.The past narrative was more engaging than the present one because the relationships between Tamsin, Liz and Gabe were perfectly rendered. I hated reading the interactions between Liz and her mother but it gave a lot of insight into Liz. If you want a book that will keep you guessing this is a great book for you!
September 2, 2022
Thanks to netgalley and publishers for allowing me to read this ARC.
This being my first read by this author. It took me sometime to get into it. Very slow going . But once 28 percent in . I raced through . A good mystery, especially if read whilst a storm is going on outside ,which in my case it was. 3✨️✨️✨️
This being my first read by this author. It took me sometime to get into it. Very slow going . But once 28 percent in . I raced through . A good mystery, especially if read whilst a storm is going on outside ,which in my case it was. 3✨️✨️✨️
August 18, 2022
I received an ARC of, Secrets Between Friends, by Tracy Buchanan. Liz is haunted by her past. When Tamzin and her old friend Liz meet again, they wonder if their secret will come out. I thought it was an ok read.
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November 4, 2022What attracted me to this book was the old house, a murderous secret between friends and the setting in Cornwall. Sounds a bit like a Kate Morton vibe.
I think I am probably in the minority on this but I didn't love the book. I grew bored with the plot and felt the character development could have been better.
Liz and Tasmin are from very different worlds socially and economically but became very good friends in their early teens. There is a murder, that's the opening scene, and eventually Tasmin moves away. Fast forward 20 years and Tasmin is now back. Liz works as a postie delivering mail. They reconnect, both knowing the secret which can ruin them both.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced readers copy of this novel. This was published October 25, 2022 by Amazon Publishing U.K. Genre: General Fiction, Woman's Fiction and Mystery/Thrillers.
I think I am probably in the minority on this but I didn't love the book. I grew bored with the plot and felt the character development could have been better.
Liz and Tasmin are from very different worlds socially and economically but became very good friends in their early teens. There is a murder, that's the opening scene, and eventually Tasmin moves away. Fast forward 20 years and Tasmin is now back. Liz works as a postie delivering mail. They reconnect, both knowing the secret which can ruin them both.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced readers copy of this novel. This was published October 25, 2022 by Amazon Publishing U.K. Genre: General Fiction, Woman's Fiction and Mystery/Thrillers.
March 6, 2024
great twists and turns
First book by Tracy Buchanan and really enjoyed it.
Loved the twists and turns of the story and liked getting to know the different characters 👍🏻
First book by Tracy Buchanan and really enjoyed it.
Loved the twists and turns of the story and liked getting to know the different characters 👍🏻
March 17, 2024
Was the writing good? Not really. Were the characters likable? Definitely not. But I wanted to get to the end to find out all the details. So that says something. (3.5✨)
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