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Should You Keep a Secret?
Two women have learned something shocking about their friend’s husband—and revealing it could either save her or destroy her . . .
During a night out at the pub, Stella and Carly accept an invitation to a local party, but the scene they find there is not what they expected. It’s a swingers’ event—and their friend Jesse’s husband is there among the swingers.
Now the two women aren’t sure what to do. Stella, who works with Jesse at the library, is inclined to keep quiet. She doesn’t want to poke her nose into someone else’s marriage, and on top of that, she knows Jesse is facing a potential job loss. The last thing she needs is more stress. Carly, on the other hand, thinks telling the truth is the right thing to do. Meanwhile, the angry threats from Jesse’s husband warning them to keep their mouths shut only make the situation worse.
As the two deal with their own personal lives—Stella facing a marital separation and an ailing mother-in-law, Carly coping with loneliness as her husband works long hours—they find themselves blurting out the shocking news. And even as dark secrets about Jesse’s situation are revealed, Stella and Carly will make some discoveries of their own.
During a night out at the pub, Stella and Carly accept an invitation to a local party, but the scene they find there is not what they expected. It’s a swingers’ event—and their friend Jesse’s husband is there among the swingers.
Now the two women aren’t sure what to do. Stella, who works with Jesse at the library, is inclined to keep quiet. She doesn’t want to poke her nose into someone else’s marriage, and on top of that, she knows Jesse is facing a potential job loss. The last thing she needs is more stress. Carly, on the other hand, thinks telling the truth is the right thing to do. Meanwhile, the angry threats from Jesse’s husband warning them to keep their mouths shut only make the situation worse.
As the two deal with their own personal lives—Stella facing a marital separation and an ailing mother-in-law, Carly coping with loneliness as her husband works long hours—they find themselves blurting out the shocking news. And even as dark secrets about Jesse’s situation are revealed, Stella and Carly will make some discoveries of their own.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 13, 2022
82 people are currently reading
88 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
April 20, 2022
I loved this book I expected a typical thriller but I got something completely different and I was there for it.
Stella and carly go to a party and discover a secret about a friends husband who then starts threatening them to keep his secret... so should they keep a secret??
This book really made me think because I am a girl who can keep a secret if I'm confided in but then I'm also a girl who if you do my friends wrong will bring out the hulk and stick by my girls( or boys) through thick and thin. So I absolutely would not keep this secret but it still had me questioning it the whole way through.
I loved the writing, and the storyline was compelling hut for me the best thing about this book was the characters I loved them especially the girls they were all so relatable. I did detest one character - steve I'm eyeballing you - but I think that was the point.
A really enjoyable read that does have some triggering points but these are clearly pointed out. I would definitely recommend it.
Stella and carly go to a party and discover a secret about a friends husband who then starts threatening them to keep his secret... so should they keep a secret??
This book really made me think because I am a girl who can keep a secret if I'm confided in but then I'm also a girl who if you do my friends wrong will bring out the hulk and stick by my girls( or boys) through thick and thin. So I absolutely would not keep this secret but it still had me questioning it the whole way through.
I loved the writing, and the storyline was compelling hut for me the best thing about this book was the characters I loved them especially the girls they were all so relatable. I did detest one character - steve I'm eyeballing you - but I think that was the point.
A really enjoyable read that does have some triggering points but these are clearly pointed out. I would definitely recommend it.
April 20, 2022
Another brilliant book by Lisa Darcy which I thoroughly enjoyed. I have now read all three of Lisa’s books and she certainly does not disappoint and I would definitely recommend ‘Should you keep a secret’.
Lisa had me gripped from the beginning and I found it hard to put it down.
Lots of twists and turns.
I am now eagerly awaiting Lisa’s next book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lisa had me gripped from the beginning and I found it hard to put it down.
Lots of twists and turns.
I am now eagerly awaiting Lisa’s next book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 21, 2022
My Thoughts:
Wow what a situation and what do you do when you come across something your friends husband is doing that he shouldn’t. We follow these three women on a journey that is full of secrets, laughs and despair. I enjoyed reading this.
Wow what a situation and what do you do when you come across something your friends husband is doing that he shouldn’t. We follow these three women on a journey that is full of secrets, laughs and despair. I enjoyed reading this.
April 14, 2022
This book didn’t capture me as much as I thought it would by the blurb, but once I got into it I didn’t want to put it down (until I had to, but then I struggled to pick it back up again for some reason!).
The book is based around the idea of finding something out about a friend’s other half and then the dilemma of whether you tell them and potentially blow up their relationship, or whether you keep it to yourself but feel guilty every time you see your friend.
It was interesting to see how the friends wrestled with the idea of whether to tell their friend or not and the way in which they went about it. It was also interesting to follow the fall out, and see what happened to the relationship afterwards.
I also liked how we had chapters from different people’s perspectives and we got to know them a bit more and also found that, although from an outsider’s point of view their lives might seem pretty good, everyone has their own demons and own problems to deal with.
I didn’t like how we switched between first person and third person narratives, and wasn’t completely sure why the only first person narrative was for Stella, I would have preferred all first person (the chapters told you when the character had changed) or all third person rather than a mix.
However, overall this wasn’t a bad book to read. The secret was pretty ridiculous, but I suppose that’s one way to keep you reading, and I felt annoyed by some of the characters decisions. But it was something a little different to my usual reads.
The book is based around the idea of finding something out about a friend’s other half and then the dilemma of whether you tell them and potentially blow up their relationship, or whether you keep it to yourself but feel guilty every time you see your friend.
It was interesting to see how the friends wrestled with the idea of whether to tell their friend or not and the way in which they went about it. It was also interesting to follow the fall out, and see what happened to the relationship afterwards.
I also liked how we had chapters from different people’s perspectives and we got to know them a bit more and also found that, although from an outsider’s point of view their lives might seem pretty good, everyone has their own demons and own problems to deal with.
I didn’t like how we switched between first person and third person narratives, and wasn’t completely sure why the only first person narrative was for Stella, I would have preferred all first person (the chapters told you when the character had changed) or all third person rather than a mix.
However, overall this wasn’t a bad book to read. The secret was pretty ridiculous, but I suppose that’s one way to keep you reading, and I felt annoyed by some of the characters decisions. But it was something a little different to my usual reads.
April 22, 2022
Have you ever had a big secret to tell and didn't know how to handle it? When it came out did it bring about more secrets? This is what happens when Stella and Carly unknowingly accept an invitation to a swingers party and come face to face with their friend's husband.
The story focuses on Stella, Carly and Jesse. Each is facing their own challenges in their marriage and personal life that I believe we can all relate to in some way. I liked each chapter alternating for each character to tell their individual story.
I was drawn in emotionally to the situations in the story. Feeling frustrated with Jesse's husband and hoping for the best in her situation. There were parts toward the end that lacked for me, but overall I enjoyed this story.
Thank you Lisa Darcy, Bloodhound Books and Love Books Tour for the opportunity to read and review this book.
The story focuses on Stella, Carly and Jesse. Each is facing their own challenges in their marriage and personal life that I believe we can all relate to in some way. I liked each chapter alternating for each character to tell their individual story.
I was drawn in emotionally to the situations in the story. Feeling frustrated with Jesse's husband and hoping for the best in her situation. There were parts toward the end that lacked for me, but overall I enjoyed this story.
Thank you Lisa Darcy, Bloodhound Books and Love Books Tour for the opportunity to read and review this book.
April 18, 2022
Should you keep a secret by Lisa Darcy.
Two women have learned something shocking about their friend’s husband—and revealing it could either save her or destroy her . . .
A good read. I don't know what I would do in their position. I liked Stella Carly and Jesse. Steve I didn't like at all. 4*.
Two women have learned something shocking about their friend’s husband—and revealing it could either save her or destroy her . . .
A good read. I don't know what I would do in their position. I liked Stella Carly and Jesse. Steve I didn't like at all. 4*.
April 22, 2022
Slightly confused was my initial feeling as I went through the book, thinking it to be a thriller. But it was a contemporary, women's fiction with friendship and emotions.
The story was quite evocative as I didn't know what I would do had I been in their position. Telling a friend about their husband was probably one of the most difficult thing to do in friendship.
The writing was softer with words used between a chick-lit and women's fiction. The emotional aspect of their lives came through when one of them was in a life-threatening situation.
Mental health and other marital issues were dealt with kindly.
The writing was not gripping in the beginning as the friendship between the friendship didn't carry the warm vibes that I would expect from a book of this genre.
The first half with their marital problems didn't pull me into the book as I thought it would.
Quite an entertaining story which carried the flavor of friendship and sisterhood.
The story was quite evocative as I didn't know what I would do had I been in their position. Telling a friend about their husband was probably one of the most difficult thing to do in friendship.
The writing was softer with words used between a chick-lit and women's fiction. The emotional aspect of their lives came through when one of them was in a life-threatening situation.
Mental health and other marital issues were dealt with kindly.
The writing was not gripping in the beginning as the friendship between the friendship didn't carry the warm vibes that I would expect from a book of this genre.
The first half with their marital problems didn't pull me into the book as I thought it would.
Quite an entertaining story which carried the flavor of friendship and sisterhood.
May 3, 2022
If you love soaps
You will like this book. Three friends who are very different, in fact the only thing they have in common is motherhood. But that's what I liked about them, no matter how different they approach life, the three are there for each other.
This book does examine the ramifications of one seemingly innocent, fun night out for the three bff's. A page turner that focuses on the ups and downs of marriage, family, friends and the terrible realization that you may not know the person you are closest to at all.
I would have liked more in the epilogue about Jesse.
You will like this book. Three friends who are very different, in fact the only thing they have in common is motherhood. But that's what I liked about them, no matter how different they approach life, the three are there for each other.
This book does examine the ramifications of one seemingly innocent, fun night out for the three bff's. A page turner that focuses on the ups and downs of marriage, family, friends and the terrible realization that you may not know the person you are closest to at all.
I would have liked more in the epilogue about Jesse.
April 24, 2022
Didn’t want it to end…
I was so disappointed when I read the words “The End”. I wanted this to go on and on. I found myself completely engulfed in these women’s lives. Hopefully there will be another sequel to this story. I am going to check out and see what else this author has written and hopefully I can add a new author to my must read collection.
I was so disappointed when I read the words “The End”. I wanted this to go on and on. I found myself completely engulfed in these women’s lives. Hopefully there will be another sequel to this story. I am going to check out and see what else this author has written and hopefully I can add a new author to my must read collection.
April 28, 2022
Should You Keep a Secret? by Lisa Darcy was a beautifully written book and I was hooked from the beginning till the end. It was a book I could not put it down. Should You Keep a Secret? is about relationships. and especially friendship with women. It all starts with two very good friends going to a party and after a few drinks they both find their other friend's husband in a Very compromising position!
Do you tell your friend what she saw?
Secrets!?
They always have a way of coming out..........when you at least respect it!
Will their friendship Suffer?
WoW, So much is going on within this book and it was a roller coaster ride! It was a good read.
I highly recommend this book.
Do you tell your friend what she saw?
Secrets!?
They always have a way of coming out..........when you at least respect it!
Will their friendship Suffer?
WoW, So much is going on within this book and it was a roller coaster ride! It was a good read.
I highly recommend this book.
November 15, 2023
Loved it. Couldn't put it down!
April 22, 2022
SYKAS follows four main characters; Stella, Jesse, Carly and Louisa as they are all dealing with the own personal life changes and problems, whilst also hoarding their own (and others) secrets, after Stella and Carly happen upon Jesse’s husband Steve at a swingers party there are events set into motion leading to heartache and despair, but ultimately can these ladies overcome their problems and change their lives around?
This is my second novel by Lisa Darcy, and I was ultimately drawn in by the synopsis and it sounded very interesting but mysterious at the same time, and I was not disappointed upon reading the book, it was a great read from all four characters perspectives, so flicking between them all and their own lives and inner demons was engrossing, and I found myself willing all four of them to have happy endings.
However, there were certain things in this book that I struggled with, as in places it does seem slightly stereotypical and possibly slightly triggering/upsetting – as there are times that Steve is referred to as weird purely for his interest in swinger parties. As well as Jesse’s OCD/anxiety symptoms being described by some as “quirks” I feel that there could have been more development on Jesse’s mental health. There are also other trigger warnings worth mentioning for the book including: Infidelity, miscarriage, emotional abuse, overdoes, alcoholism and car accidents.
Overall SYKAS was a good read that I was completely engrossed in, and I found that the character development was really well done, and I did find myself completely despising certain characters (looking at you Steve) whilst absolutely adoring others and wishing they were real (looking at June here she was such a funny and adorable grandma character that I am sure we can all say we have met someone like June!) The writing format and flow was perfect as well, the chapters were lengthy enough to keep readers engaged whilst also not seeming overbearing.
I loved the ending as well; without too many spoilers it was great to see just where each of the main characters ended up and honestly I would love to read more about them!
2.5
This is my second novel by Lisa Darcy, and I was ultimately drawn in by the synopsis and it sounded very interesting but mysterious at the same time, and I was not disappointed upon reading the book, it was a great read from all four characters perspectives, so flicking between them all and their own lives and inner demons was engrossing, and I found myself willing all four of them to have happy endings.
However, there were certain things in this book that I struggled with, as in places it does seem slightly stereotypical and possibly slightly triggering/upsetting – as there are times that Steve is referred to as weird purely for his interest in swinger parties. As well as Jesse’s OCD/anxiety symptoms being described by some as “quirks” I feel that there could have been more development on Jesse’s mental health. There are also other trigger warnings worth mentioning for the book including: Infidelity, miscarriage, emotional abuse, overdoes, alcoholism and car accidents.
Overall SYKAS was a good read that I was completely engrossed in, and I found that the character development was really well done, and I did find myself completely despising certain characters (looking at you Steve) whilst absolutely adoring others and wishing they were real (looking at June here she was such a funny and adorable grandma character that I am sure we can all say we have met someone like June!) The writing format and flow was perfect as well, the chapters were lengthy enough to keep readers engaged whilst also not seeming overbearing.
I loved the ending as well; without too many spoilers it was great to see just where each of the main characters ended up and honestly I would love to read more about them!
2.5
April 3, 2022
This book had my attention from the moment I read the blurb.
How do the secrets we keep effect those around us? And does everyone have a secret they would rather keep hidden?
The story is very well written - you are drawn in to the characters lives. It is told through the perspectives of the main characters Stella, Jesse and Carly as well as Louisa (Jesse’s sister). Each part weaves seamlessly into the next and the swap between viewpoints gives slightly different sides to the story that open it up and make you question what your own response would be.
I particularly liked Stella and her relationship with her mother in law and ex husband. I could imagine the conversations between them, the subtle facial expressions rolling of eyes. Even in the moments of seriousness I felt the happiness between them that I think we should all look for.
The story line was definitely a gripping one and there were definite moments where I laughed. However, Lisa Darcy addresses some serious issues throughout the book - all of which add to the story but are managed well and with respect.
I have to be honest - I wasn’t expecting the initial big reveal about Steve to be quite so - well revealing. It did however get my attention and goes to show you never know what’s happening behind closed doors.
My only regret for the book is I wish we had got to know Dot a little more - there are hints that she too has secrets from her past and I would like to have explored her story more. Perhaps there’s another book there.
Thank you Lisa for letting me enjoy another of your wonderful books.
Trigger warnings: mental health, controlling relationship behaviour, pregnancy loss, drug use.
How do the secrets we keep effect those around us? And does everyone have a secret they would rather keep hidden?
The story is very well written - you are drawn in to the characters lives. It is told through the perspectives of the main characters Stella, Jesse and Carly as well as Louisa (Jesse’s sister). Each part weaves seamlessly into the next and the swap between viewpoints gives slightly different sides to the story that open it up and make you question what your own response would be.
I particularly liked Stella and her relationship with her mother in law and ex husband. I could imagine the conversations between them, the subtle facial expressions rolling of eyes. Even in the moments of seriousness I felt the happiness between them that I think we should all look for.
The story line was definitely a gripping one and there were definite moments where I laughed. However, Lisa Darcy addresses some serious issues throughout the book - all of which add to the story but are managed well and with respect.
I have to be honest - I wasn’t expecting the initial big reveal about Steve to be quite so - well revealing. It did however get my attention and goes to show you never know what’s happening behind closed doors.
My only regret for the book is I wish we had got to know Dot a little more - there are hints that she too has secrets from her past and I would like to have explored her story more. Perhaps there’s another book there.
Thank you Lisa for letting me enjoy another of your wonderful books.
Trigger warnings: mental health, controlling relationship behaviour, pregnancy loss, drug use.
April 13, 2022
A first read for me from this author so no expectations. Set in Sydney, Australia this is a family drama about three woman and their families. Although all three woman are going through issues in their relationships the question is when two of them find out something about the other woman’s husband should they tell her?
Briefly, Stella is separated from her husband and when she meets Mike in a night out there is a mutual attraction but is she ready for a new relationship? Carly feels her husband is becoming more distant and her answer is alcohol…. Jesse’s husband mentally and sometimes physically abuses her but she still thinks they can be happy. It is gradually affecting her mental health and she has become OCD. When Stella and Carly find out something about Jesse’s husband their dilemma is do they tell her?
This is quite a slow burner but I found the tale enjoyable and I didn’t want to put the book down, reading it in a day. Good characterisations, in fact so good I could see them as I was reading, it was a bit like the cast of Friends! Lots of twists and turns and more than a few coincidences in the plot but an easy read. Would you keep the secret if it had been you? ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Briefly, Stella is separated from her husband and when she meets Mike in a night out there is a mutual attraction but is she ready for a new relationship? Carly feels her husband is becoming more distant and her answer is alcohol…. Jesse’s husband mentally and sometimes physically abuses her but she still thinks they can be happy. It is gradually affecting her mental health and she has become OCD. When Stella and Carly find out something about Jesse’s husband their dilemma is do they tell her?
This is quite a slow burner but I found the tale enjoyable and I didn’t want to put the book down, reading it in a day. Good characterisations, in fact so good I could see them as I was reading, it was a bit like the cast of Friends! Lots of twists and turns and more than a few coincidences in the plot but an easy read. Would you keep the secret if it had been you? ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 2, 2022
Lisa Darcy has done it again with another wonderful story about love, loss, friendship, and, well, life in general. I was given ARC copy of ‘Should You Keep A Secret’ in exchange for an honest review and I can say in all honestly I absolutely loved it. Having devoured ‘Lily’s Little Flower Shop’ and ‘My Big Greek Holiday’, I was looking forward to this next offering. And it did not disappoint. This book has it all – romance, humour, believable characters and eye-opening and sometimes shocking situations. Stella is separated from her husband and adapting to her new life. Besties, Carly and Jesse are by her side but also dealing with personal issues. We go on a journey with three friends, as secrets are kept and slowly revealed and they navigate relationships, ageing parents, teenagers and philandering husbands. Lisa captures the magic of the everyday, while beautifully building its many underlying tensions. I found myself on the edge of my comfy lounge chair, laughing, crying and holding my breath, willing things to resolve. A truly enjoyable and satisfying read from a truly talented Australian writer.
April 10, 2022
What are the benefits of keeping a secret from a friend? Will it do more harm then good? That's the question at the heart of this book.
After reading a series of books that were basically thrillers and murder mysteries, this book was a nice change of pace. Stella and Carly see their friend Jesse's husband in a compromising position, a position that threatens her marriage. Both of them are struggling in their own marriages. Stella is separated and Carly feels like her marriage may be heading the same way with their sons soon out of the house. Do they want to risk their friend's marriage ending? Her kids are young, Jesse is struggling with some emotional troubles, and her husband can be volatile. Do they risk telling her?
The characters and their relationships are decently flushed out and believable. I found myself cheering for everyone. Well almost everyone. The book ended on a decent note and while I would love to see more of these characters, I honestly felt nearly everything was wrapped up well enough to not need a follow up (if that makes any sense).
All in all, I do recommend this book!
Thank you Bloodhound books!
After reading a series of books that were basically thrillers and murder mysteries, this book was a nice change of pace. Stella and Carly see their friend Jesse's husband in a compromising position, a position that threatens her marriage. Both of them are struggling in their own marriages. Stella is separated and Carly feels like her marriage may be heading the same way with their sons soon out of the house. Do they want to risk their friend's marriage ending? Her kids are young, Jesse is struggling with some emotional troubles, and her husband can be volatile. Do they risk telling her?
The characters and their relationships are decently flushed out and believable. I found myself cheering for everyone. Well almost everyone. The book ended on a decent note and while I would love to see more of these characters, I honestly felt nearly everything was wrapped up well enough to not need a follow up (if that makes any sense).
All in all, I do recommend this book!
Thank you Bloodhound books!
April 15, 2022
Based on the information that Stella and Carly have seen their friend's husband at a Swinger's party, they are left battling whether to tell their friend or not. Is ignorance bliss, or is honesty the best policy? What would you do? If you like a book centred around moral dilemmas, this is the book for you.
This book is tough to put down; like a pot of pringles - once you start, you won't stop! Although the situation happens at a Swinger's party, the author handles this sensitively and is written well for all readers. For my preference, this is tame but is one small thing to note if you are easily offended. The author's writing style and the fast pace and easy plot flow had me devouring this chapter after chapter, and I ended up finishing this in one session.
I predict that this will be a massive success for this author and publisher, and I can not wait to see what others think of it. A recommended read for all fans of this genre and an easy five star read.
Thank you, Bloodhound Books, for a gifted copy of this book for an honest and voluntary review. All opinions are my own.
This book is tough to put down; like a pot of pringles - once you start, you won't stop! Although the situation happens at a Swinger's party, the author handles this sensitively and is written well for all readers. For my preference, this is tame but is one small thing to note if you are easily offended. The author's writing style and the fast pace and easy plot flow had me devouring this chapter after chapter, and I ended up finishing this in one session.
I predict that this will be a massive success for this author and publisher, and I can not wait to see what others think of it. A recommended read for all fans of this genre and an easy five star read.
Thank you, Bloodhound Books, for a gifted copy of this book for an honest and voluntary review. All opinions are my own.
April 14, 2022
Wow, there is A LOT going on in this book!! It starts with 2 friends going to a party and finding their other friend's husband in a VERY compromising position! Hence the title - should you keep the secret, or should you tell your friend what you've discovered?
But we then go on to discover that each of the friends have their own issues and secrets, and the lives of the women and their families and other friends are all woven together really well.
I thought the character of Stella was particularly well written, I really enjoyed her blossoming new relationship as well as the relationship she had with her ex husband and her mother in law. Really interesting insights into parenting teenagers as well which I always enjoy!
There are some sensitive subjects covered, including pregnancy loss, alcohol dependency, controlling/toxic relationships, but once again Lisa Darcy manages to combine these with some light hearted moments.
But we then go on to discover that each of the friends have their own issues and secrets, and the lives of the women and their families and other friends are all woven together really well.
I thought the character of Stella was particularly well written, I really enjoyed her blossoming new relationship as well as the relationship she had with her ex husband and her mother in law. Really interesting insights into parenting teenagers as well which I always enjoy!
There are some sensitive subjects covered, including pregnancy loss, alcohol dependency, controlling/toxic relationships, but once again Lisa Darcy manages to combine these with some light hearted moments.
April 13, 2022
This story is coming out April 13, 2022. This is a story about relationships. Especially friendship with woman. The story is Stella and Garth, Carly and Brett, and Jesse and Steve. The women and man are all parents. The have marriage and families. But when Jesse husband is keeping a secret from his wife that can make or take away their relationship and destroy their family. The friend of Jesse, Carly and Stella are wondering should the tell Jesse what is going on in her relationship with her husband and marriage he keeps hidden. This have so much more to this story, I enjoyed this book so much. It shows not people want to stay together, and you will something in everyone life. You can assume that you will know or react even, so things are not what they seem to be. I enjoy every person in the book. I want more story by this author Lisa Darcy.
April 18, 2022
It’s a fantastic read to sit with some wine! Or just fun drink you like
Oh boyyy this book was loaded! I felt like I was in the friend group just getting all the hot gossip! Definitely hard to put down you just want to know more! The friendship and family dynamics, even if they were going through a rough patch, were very relatable. There’s more than 1 secret going on and it gets interesting you must read I don’t want to spoil anything!!
Would I keep this secret?! Hmmm probably not, I’d blab haha but I think it’s one that should be told 🤪
Also my girl June might be my favorite she’s feisty! Love her relationship with Stella. Not a Steve fan *ugh eye roll* the worst!
Overall this was a smooth read that was addictive! Even with the fun gossip aspect I do feel like this book touched on some important topics like mental health. Which is great, nothing to intense so don’t worry!
Oh boyyy this book was loaded! I felt like I was in the friend group just getting all the hot gossip! Definitely hard to put down you just want to know more! The friendship and family dynamics, even if they were going through a rough patch, were very relatable. There’s more than 1 secret going on and it gets interesting you must read I don’t want to spoil anything!!
Would I keep this secret?! Hmmm probably not, I’d blab haha but I think it’s one that should be told 🤪
Also my girl June might be my favorite she’s feisty! Love her relationship with Stella. Not a Steve fan *ugh eye roll* the worst!
Overall this was a smooth read that was addictive! Even with the fun gossip aspect I do feel like this book touched on some important topics like mental health. Which is great, nothing to intense so don’t worry!
March 26, 2022
The premise for the book is what initially attracted me to read it as I was in a similar position many years ago when we knew that our friend's husband was having an affair. Fortunately the ending to that wasn't quite as traumatic as the consequences in this story. You will get swept along with the story and it does make you question what you would do if placed in similar circumstances - and yes my choice would be different to that I made 40 years ago. It is a tale about friendships, marital strife, separation, families, mental health and lots more however Lisa keeps a tight rein on it all so the story just flows. It is quite an emotive book at parts but very enjoyable.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the ARC to review.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the ARC to review.
April 2, 2022
I have read a
Few of this authors books previously so was looking forward to reading this one. This is a thought provoking read and really makes you think what would you do if you were in the situation of knowing a secret about a friend and If would tell them at the expense of ripping their world apart. It is also a story of love life and loss and of how Certain events can shape what will happen in your own future and how devastating situations being people closer.
It also shows how people are not always who they seem on the surface and that a lot of people have hidden secrets that once they come out can change the future and underneath the big secret un the book their are lots of little ones which weave there way our into the surface during the story.
Few of this authors books previously so was looking forward to reading this one. This is a thought provoking read and really makes you think what would you do if you were in the situation of knowing a secret about a friend and If would tell them at the expense of ripping their world apart. It is also a story of love life and loss and of how Certain events can shape what will happen in your own future and how devastating situations being people closer.
It also shows how people are not always who they seem on the surface and that a lot of people have hidden secrets that once they come out can change the future and underneath the big secret un the book their are lots of little ones which weave there way our into the surface during the story.
April 6, 2022
The blurb of this really got me thinking, what would I do in that situation, and I knew I had to read this.
It was gripping from the very start. I couldn't put it down and read 65% in one evening.
The author writes characters very well; they are full, rounded people whose lives you can't help but become immersed in. There is a whole range of personalities in this book, but the three main ladies come across very well. They each have their own story going on but are entwined with each other.
There were real, everyday issues present as well as problems you can only hope never occur in your life! Each one was handled sensitively and completely; no loose ends were left.
A really enjoyable read.
It was gripping from the very start. I couldn't put it down and read 65% in one evening.
The author writes characters very well; they are full, rounded people whose lives you can't help but become immersed in. There is a whole range of personalities in this book, but the three main ladies come across very well. They each have their own story going on but are entwined with each other.
There were real, everyday issues present as well as problems you can only hope never occur in your life! Each one was handled sensitively and completely; no loose ends were left.
A really enjoyable read.
April 18, 2022
This is the second book I’ve read by this author, and this one was a bit different than the last one. What if you knew a secret about your best friend’s husband? Would you tell? This book peeks into the lives of a trio of friends, their families, and the craziness that ensues when two of them learn something about the third’s husband. What happens when they don’t tell? You’ll be at the edge of your seat the whole time, following along, yelling at the book (I cannot be the only person who does that, can I?) heart pounding, wondering how it will end. The characters could be your sister, your bestie, your mom, or the lady beside you at school pickup! This is not to be missed! Thank you to Love Books Tours and Lisa Darcy for allowing me to read this in exchange for a review!
March 29, 2022
So, this is a reprint/rewrite of another book "Stella Makes Good" so if it seems familiar, there's why. I don't know why when I see books describe "discovering secrets" I always think it will be salacious and shocking...but then I read the book and it's not, it's rarely even anything new. This books fit that bill on the fact that what these ladies thought were tragic secrets were really trivial, except the one character, hers were a little more unnatural. I liked the characters and the story but some of it just felt rushed and out of place. Not a bad book as I was hooked and didn't really want to put it down, but nothing I'd shout to the mountains about either.
April 5, 2022
Should You Keep a Secret is the story of three friends in their 30's who are going through difficult times in their marriages.
Stella's marriage is over but her friends Carly and Jesse have problems of their own. When Stella and Carly find out something shocking about their friend's husband it tests their friendship in many ways.
All the characters were believable and the background to their families were interesting and gave depth to the story. It was the type of story that really got me wondering what I would do in that situation and the characters were people that I cared about.
Thank you to the author and Bloodhound Books for an ARC of this book. The opinions are my own.
Stella's marriage is over but her friends Carly and Jesse have problems of their own. When Stella and Carly find out something shocking about their friend's husband it tests their friendship in many ways.
All the characters were believable and the background to their families were interesting and gave depth to the story. It was the type of story that really got me wondering what I would do in that situation and the characters were people that I cared about.
Thank you to the author and Bloodhound Books for an ARC of this book. The opinions are my own.
April 12, 2022
Congratulations to Lisa Darcy on another gritty domestic romance. Her easy writing style and relatable characters make for a page turning read. Plenty of twists and turns contribute to the messy love lives of three women who find themselves facing mid marriage crises, dealing with confused children and managing the demands of aging parents and career decisions. Will each of them make the right choices? The answer is – Not without speed bumps. This is a great read for anyone who enjoys contemporary romance with a touch of (at times,) outrageous realism.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the review copy.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the review copy.
April 14, 2022
I was drawn to the premise of this book and the moral dilemma faced by two friends when they see their friend's husband on a very compromising situation. Should they tell their friend what her husband has been doing or they keep quiet? What would you do? That is what the book makes you question yourself.
With relatable characters development and well developed situations this is a story of love, friendship, relationships, truth, lies and betrayal, but also of success and rising to the best self possible.
You will feel the characters despair, happiness and strength. With moments of laugh, and cry this is a book that will leave you thinking about it long after finishing the last page.
With relatable characters development and well developed situations this is a story of love, friendship, relationships, truth, lies and betrayal, but also of success and rising to the best self possible.
You will feel the characters despair, happiness and strength. With moments of laugh, and cry this is a book that will leave you thinking about it long after finishing the last page.
April 17, 2022
This is my second book from lisa Darcy and I have enjoyed both of the books I have read from her! I do enjoy her writing style and the way she is able to immerse you into the story.
I really enjoyed Stella’s relationship with her ex mother in law since my mom has the same relationship in real life with hers. The way their relationship remained close even after being separated from her husband, I completely admire.
I definitely enjoyed this book, it’s a quick read and a quick escape into somebody else’s reality filled with secrets and lies that are very indulgent to read about!!
Thanks to love book tours and bloodhound books for the ARC.
March 25, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. The three main characters all had interesting storylines which tied together well, and the plot moved along at a good pace.
I think this would appeal to anyone who enjoys stories of strong female friendships, and the way marriages change and develop over time
At times it made me chuckle, at others in made me sad, but I think a book that stirs emotions is good.
Thanks to Bloodhound books for sending me an advanced copy to read and review, and for adding another author to my look out for pile!
I think this would appeal to anyone who enjoys stories of strong female friendships, and the way marriages change and develop over time
At times it made me chuckle, at others in made me sad, but I think a book that stirs emotions is good.
Thanks to Bloodhound books for sending me an advanced copy to read and review, and for adding another author to my look out for pile!
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