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His Secret Wife
What happens when his secret wife is the only one who can save your child?
Elle has the perfect life. A hard-working husband, a clever little boy, and a gorgeous home in a quaint neighbourhood.
Jen also has the perfect life. A passionate relationship with a doting husband, a creative little girl, and an exciting career.
When a strange coincidence throws them together, they become close friends. But then they uncover a shocking truth: they share the same husband.
As they both grapple with this devastating revelation, Elle receives worrying news about her son’s health. When things go from bad to worse and Elle has no one else to turn to, can Jen bring herself to help the woman who shattered her world? And can Elle trust her husband’s other wife with her child’s life?
Elle has the perfect life. A hard-working husband, a clever little boy, and a gorgeous home in a quaint neighbourhood.
Jen also has the perfect life. A passionate relationship with a doting husband, a creative little girl, and an exciting career.
When a strange coincidence throws them together, they become close friends. But then they uncover a shocking truth: they share the same husband.
As they both grapple with this devastating revelation, Elle receives worrying news about her son’s health. When things go from bad to worse and Elle has no one else to turn to, can Jen bring herself to help the woman who shattered her world? And can Elle trust her husband’s other wife with her child’s life?
- GenresContemporaryFiction
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 13, 2023
225 people are currently reading
351 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
March 14, 2023
Elle and Jenn met by chance at a support group for parents with children diagnosed with ADHD. They clicked right away and became fast friends. Not long after, they discovered they were married to the same man.
This novel had quite a slow start. The first 30-35% laid down the groundwork for the rest of the story. The story didn't pick up until around the 40% mark. I appreciate the ADHD aspect of the storyline. It was educational and informative. Something I'm interested in since my nephew also has selective mutism. Unfortunately, the main story itself lacked oomph. I wanted some kind of twist or mystery. Maybe even some type of tragedy with the kids to coax more feelings. Just something to keep the story engaging.
Overall, decent but was expecting more.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Lisa Timoney, and Avon Books UK for graciously sending me the ARC to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
This novel had quite a slow start. The first 30-35% laid down the groundwork for the rest of the story. The story didn't pick up until around the 40% mark. I appreciate the ADHD aspect of the storyline. It was educational and informative. Something I'm interested in since my nephew also has selective mutism. Unfortunately, the main story itself lacked oomph. I wanted some kind of twist or mystery. Maybe even some type of tragedy with the kids to coax more feelings. Just something to keep the story engaging.
Overall, decent but was expecting more.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Lisa Timoney, and Avon Books UK for graciously sending me the ARC to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
April 1, 2023
Elle has the perfect life. A hard-working husband, a clever little boy, and a gorgeous home in a quaint neighbourhood.
Jen also has the perfect life. A passionate relationship with a doting husband, a creative little girl, and an exciting career.
When a strange coincidence throws them together, they become close friends. But then they uncover a shocking truth: they share the same husband.
This is a fast-paced thought provoking read. The characters were well developed and felt realistic. It did take a little while for the story to start properly. The details around ADHD were quite interesting. It showed some of the challenges parents can face having a child with ADHD. It can also be quite an emotional read. The chapters alternate between Elle and Jen's perspectives. And I'm not ashamed to admit, the ending made me cry.
I would like to thank #NetGalley ##AvonBooksUk and the author #LisaTimoney for my ARC of #HisSecretWife in exchange for an honest review.
Jen also has the perfect life. A passionate relationship with a doting husband, a creative little girl, and an exciting career.
When a strange coincidence throws them together, they become close friends. But then they uncover a shocking truth: they share the same husband.
This is a fast-paced thought provoking read. The characters were well developed and felt realistic. It did take a little while for the story to start properly. The details around ADHD were quite interesting. It showed some of the challenges parents can face having a child with ADHD. It can also be quite an emotional read. The chapters alternate between Elle and Jen's perspectives. And I'm not ashamed to admit, the ending made me cry.
I would like to thank #NetGalley ##AvonBooksUk and the author #LisaTimoney for my ARC of #HisSecretWife in exchange for an honest review.
April 13, 2023
What does it mean to be a normal person?
Author Lisa Timoney writes to show her readers that everyone’s ‘normal’ is different. Her compelling and heartbreaking family drama reflects her passion for changing the way we view people, behaviours and relationships.
Elle, Jen, Rob, Bill, Harry and Cora show us the trauma that can result when we strive to be viewed as normal. For all characters involved, some level of brokenness must be achieved for the light of realization to highlight the futility involved in their quest. Timoney takes her readers on an emotional ride as they view these two families from afar and see the toll the drive for normalcy has on their lives. She pleads with us to stop the secretive way we behave around mental health issues; an apropos request in light of the psychological toll of our recent pandemic.
I sat down to read a few chapters and ended up finishing the book in one sitting; it’s a binge-able read. Timoney’s well-paced plot, authentic characters, and deep dive into ADHD and associated conditions make for a timely read. I promise you that you’ll view neurodiversity differently after reading this book. It’s a must-read for every parent, educator, and childcare provider.
“We all have bits of ourselves we wish were different, but if we can’t control them, how can anybody else?”
Timoney has managed to work herself onto my auto-read author list. This is the third book of hers that I’ve read and I continue to be impressed.
I was gifted this copy by Avon Books UK and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Author Lisa Timoney writes to show her readers that everyone’s ‘normal’ is different. Her compelling and heartbreaking family drama reflects her passion for changing the way we view people, behaviours and relationships.
Elle, Jen, Rob, Bill, Harry and Cora show us the trauma that can result when we strive to be viewed as normal. For all characters involved, some level of brokenness must be achieved for the light of realization to highlight the futility involved in their quest. Timoney takes her readers on an emotional ride as they view these two families from afar and see the toll the drive for normalcy has on their lives. She pleads with us to stop the secretive way we behave around mental health issues; an apropos request in light of the psychological toll of our recent pandemic.
I sat down to read a few chapters and ended up finishing the book in one sitting; it’s a binge-able read. Timoney’s well-paced plot, authentic characters, and deep dive into ADHD and associated conditions make for a timely read. I promise you that you’ll view neurodiversity differently after reading this book. It’s a must-read for every parent, educator, and childcare provider.
“We all have bits of ourselves we wish were different, but if we can’t control them, how can anybody else?”
Timoney has managed to work herself onto my auto-read author list. This is the third book of hers that I’ve read and I continue to be impressed.
I was gifted this copy by Avon Books UK and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
April 30, 2023
This was a brilliant twisty book. Full of red herrings and it took you up different directions until the end. Loved this one. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
March 30, 2023
Jen and Elle become fast and close friends. So do their children who both happen to have ADHD. So it's no surprise when, after an accident between the kids, they find out they have the same father.
This story had so many secrets that were uncovered as things progressed. A solid domestic thriller with a lot of drama and emotion.
This story had so many secrets that were uncovered as things progressed. A solid domestic thriller with a lot of drama and emotion.
June 5, 2023
Jen and Elle are two women with seemingly near perfect lives. The main problem is their husband s works away or is away alot. Both mothers have to face the possibility their kids have some form of adhd but their husbands aren't as supportive or present. They met and become firm friends.
Everyone has a secret and they soon discover their husbands are the same man.
The story took a while to get going as the backstory was used to bring realism to the story. Told from Jen and Elle points of view the story is well crafted. You are treated to a realistic unravelling when the truth cone out.
The real skill is the writers knowledge of adhd. Some how this story takes on very deep ideas about what is normal and what is not and the way society deals with this and rhe lack of info and public funded support.
Highly recommended 5 stars
Everyone has a secret and they soon discover their husbands are the same man.
The story took a while to get going as the backstory was used to bring realism to the story. Told from Jen and Elle points of view the story is well crafted. You are treated to a realistic unravelling when the truth cone out.
The real skill is the writers knowledge of adhd. Some how this story takes on very deep ideas about what is normal and what is not and the way society deals with this and rhe lack of info and public funded support.
Highly recommended 5 stars
April 13, 2023
⭐️ 4.5/5
📚 48
📍 🇬🇧
🗂️ Family Drama
📖 When Elle proposed to Rob, his response of “Alright. Why not?” should have been a warning sign. Rob works away a lot, to provide for his family, or at least that’s what he says he does. Between his 7pm nightly work phone calls, trips to Scotland to see his Dad and his stays in the London flat, he is stretching himself. Well, that’s what he says anyway…
❤️ I love Lisa’s writing style
❤️ The plot
✅ So many OMG moments
✅ Tension was built perfectly - slowly giving bits of information
💧 I welled up!
🤖 Fave character = Cora ❤️❤️❤️
🔀 If you enjoy JP Delaney books, I think you’d enjoy this!
💬 “Life was richer and better with friends”
💬 “Because having a voice, and being able to use it, is everything, isn’t it?”
📆 13th April 2023
📚 48
📍 🇬🇧
🗂️ Family Drama
📖 When Elle proposed to Rob, his response of “Alright. Why not?” should have been a warning sign. Rob works away a lot, to provide for his family, or at least that’s what he says he does. Between his 7pm nightly work phone calls, trips to Scotland to see his Dad and his stays in the London flat, he is stretching himself. Well, that’s what he says anyway…
❤️ I love Lisa’s writing style
❤️ The plot
✅ So many OMG moments
✅ Tension was built perfectly - slowly giving bits of information
💧 I welled up!
🤖 Fave character = Cora ❤️❤️❤️
🔀 If you enjoy JP Delaney books, I think you’d enjoy this!
💬 “Life was richer and better with friends”
💬 “Because having a voice, and being able to use it, is everything, isn’t it?”
📆 13th April 2023
February 17, 2023
Overall a fairly decent read- I felt it was off to a slow start for awhile and wasn’t sure where the story was going but it finally evened out and became more interesting. The ADHD component did not seem to flow easily in the story about the two women-Jen and Elle, the children and the husband they discovered they shared. It felt that the author was trying to tie all these things together and it didn’t make sense to me. ⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 27, 2023
Elle is married to Rob, and they have a seven year old son, Harry. She is a stay at home mother with an enviable life style. Although she loves her husband, their relationship can be tense at times.
Jen is married to Bill, and they have a seven year old daughter, Cora. Jen is a theatre director who loves her job and her husband.
When the two women meet at a support group dealing with ADHD, which both of their children have, they have no idea that Rob and Bill are the same man. Becoming close friends, Elle is happy to let Cora spend time with Harry and through her he becomes less timid and his communication skills improve. Of course, it is only a matter of time before Rob/Bill’s secret is discovered.
I really enjoyed this read. Cleverly written – although I guessed Rob/Bill were the same person from early on - I enjoyed the way he managed to keep his two lives separate without being discovered. As Elle’s husband I felt he came over as controlling, unable to see the need for her to have her own career. It soon became clear that life at the gym with all the other glossy mothers didn’t suit her. He was also critical, unable to see she needed support when his alcoholic father moved in with them.
With Jen, however, he appeared to be living his best life. He adored his daughter and being with a woman who stood up to him and had a career and her own take on life. Because of this double standard, I felt Elle had been treated shabbily, although having said this, her personality didn’t help. She seemed to spend her life going out of her way to please people, including Rob. Something he used against her, seeing it as weakness and a character flaw.
Written from Elle and Jen’s perspective, once the truth is revealed, it leaves their friendship in tatters. Each views the other with suspicion, but it takes the children to bring them around and strengthen their bond once more.
And as for Rob/Bill? Well, you’ll have to read the book to find out how he fares. All I will say is that it is an interesting read, covering the subject of ADHD, with strong likeable characters (Elle and Jen). Recommended.
I would like to thank Netgalley, Lisa Timoney and Avon Books for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Jen is married to Bill, and they have a seven year old daughter, Cora. Jen is a theatre director who loves her job and her husband.
When the two women meet at a support group dealing with ADHD, which both of their children have, they have no idea that Rob and Bill are the same man. Becoming close friends, Elle is happy to let Cora spend time with Harry and through her he becomes less timid and his communication skills improve. Of course, it is only a matter of time before Rob/Bill’s secret is discovered.
I really enjoyed this read. Cleverly written – although I guessed Rob/Bill were the same person from early on - I enjoyed the way he managed to keep his two lives separate without being discovered. As Elle’s husband I felt he came over as controlling, unable to see the need for her to have her own career. It soon became clear that life at the gym with all the other glossy mothers didn’t suit her. He was also critical, unable to see she needed support when his alcoholic father moved in with them.
With Jen, however, he appeared to be living his best life. He adored his daughter and being with a woman who stood up to him and had a career and her own take on life. Because of this double standard, I felt Elle had been treated shabbily, although having said this, her personality didn’t help. She seemed to spend her life going out of her way to please people, including Rob. Something he used against her, seeing it as weakness and a character flaw.
Written from Elle and Jen’s perspective, once the truth is revealed, it leaves their friendship in tatters. Each views the other with suspicion, but it takes the children to bring them around and strengthen their bond once more.
And as for Rob/Bill? Well, you’ll have to read the book to find out how he fares. All I will say is that it is an interesting read, covering the subject of ADHD, with strong likeable characters (Elle and Jen). Recommended.
I would like to thank Netgalley, Lisa Timoney and Avon Books for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 30, 2025
this kind of plot has the potential to be a gut-wrenching story about the struggles of motherhood, female companionship, betrayal, and display the deep rooted misogyny of our society. i got my hopes up and thought i’d be reading an emotionally impactful book that would sit with me for years. i was severely disappointed.
this is a story of two mothers struggling with a neglectful husband, are in the process of discovering their kids have ADHD, are dealing with their own personal struggles and later discovering they share the same husband.. but despite all this, it somehow didn’t feel RAW enough. the writing and tone was too dull and underwhelming for such a story. it just didn’t hit as much as i thought it would’ve. as it should’ve.
one of my biggest pet peeves when it comes to books are badly placed pop references. the jokes about brad pitt/angelina jolie and johnny depp/amber heard was so immature. you’re writing a story about two struggling women.. while downplaying the abuse actual women in real life went through to just “relationship drama”. it’s disgusting, disrespectful and misogynistic.
maybe that’s why your story was difficult to emotionally connect with. if you are unable to properly treat abuse survivors with the respect and dignity they deserve, how could you write an emotionally impactful story about fictional women overcoming their own struggles?
and the ending was the worst part. the possibility of one of the wives getting back with this man is the worst conclusion you could’ve come up with. did you think that him losing his father was enough suffering? he neglected and lied and manipulated them for YEARS, kept secrets marriages and kids for YEARS, refused to acknowledge the kids (and his own) autism and guilt tripped them for wanting to properly support their kids!
and the only consequences he faces is them being upset for a few weeks? months? and then you give us.. THAT as an ending?
not only does he not face proper consequences, you also completely ruined your characters arc by making her even HUMOUR the thought of them getting back together. she’s already been through betrayal, had been traumatized for years because of it, finally opened up with him just to get betrayed again.. she is a woman of high confidence and esteem and self-worth and the character you built throughout that book would’ve never given him another chance.
you couldn’t stop talking about how her relationship with him was so different than the other woman’s, how they were more emotionally connected and how he loved her more than the other and how their sex was so much more intimate.. all of this should’ve made her hate him MORE! the fact that they had such a deep bond and he ruined it with all his secrets and lies. using this to build up that ending instead is just.. so distasteful.
the only thing i liked about this book was the kids and their adorable bond. ugh they were so cute
this is a story of two mothers struggling with a neglectful husband, are in the process of discovering their kids have ADHD, are dealing with their own personal struggles and later discovering they share the same husband.. but despite all this, it somehow didn’t feel RAW enough. the writing and tone was too dull and underwhelming for such a story. it just didn’t hit as much as i thought it would’ve. as it should’ve.
one of my biggest pet peeves when it comes to books are badly placed pop references. the jokes about brad pitt/angelina jolie and johnny depp/amber heard was so immature. you’re writing a story about two struggling women.. while downplaying the abuse actual women in real life went through to just “relationship drama”. it’s disgusting, disrespectful and misogynistic.
maybe that’s why your story was difficult to emotionally connect with. if you are unable to properly treat abuse survivors with the respect and dignity they deserve, how could you write an emotionally impactful story about fictional women overcoming their own struggles?
and the ending was the worst part. the possibility of one of the wives getting back with this man is the worst conclusion you could’ve come up with. did you think that him losing his father was enough suffering? he neglected and lied and manipulated them for YEARS, kept secrets marriages and kids for YEARS, refused to acknowledge the kids (and his own) autism and guilt tripped them for wanting to properly support their kids!
and the only consequences he faces is them being upset for a few weeks? months? and then you give us.. THAT as an ending?
not only does he not face proper consequences, you also completely ruined your characters arc by making her even HUMOUR the thought of them getting back together. she’s already been through betrayal, had been traumatized for years because of it, finally opened up with him just to get betrayed again.. she is a woman of high confidence and esteem and self-worth and the character you built throughout that book would’ve never given him another chance.
you couldn’t stop talking about how her relationship with him was so different than the other woman’s, how they were more emotionally connected and how he loved her more than the other and how their sex was so much more intimate.. all of this should’ve made her hate him MORE! the fact that they had such a deep bond and he ruined it with all his secrets and lies. using this to build up that ending instead is just.. so distasteful.
the only thing i liked about this book was the kids and their adorable bond. ugh they were so cute
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2025
Wow. This book was so good. I am really excited that I found this author. This one was just as good as the one about the daughter‘s secret. I can’t imagine living a double life. How can people even handle it. How could one man have two families going on. I was able to figure out that secret About two hours into the book. But the rest of how it all played out blew my mind. I know that we should be supportive of our in-laws, but I cannot imagine my husband ever leaving an alcoholic for me to take care of while he’s off doing whatever.
I thought the book did a really great job discussing mental health. It also highlights so many facets of ADHD that we do not understand. The author covered a lot of physical and emotional issues. It also was definitely a girl power book with everything that these women went through. I felt so badly for Harry and Cora, and what they went through. Their parents didn’t really understand them, and I am thankful for medical professionals who do understand and don’t just label. So glad I read this book. It wasn’t always happy feels but it wasenlightening and heartwarming and mysterious at the same time.
I thought the book did a really great job discussing mental health. It also highlights so many facets of ADHD that we do not understand. The author covered a lot of physical and emotional issues. It also was definitely a girl power book with everything that these women went through. I felt so badly for Harry and Cora, and what they went through. Their parents didn’t really understand them, and I am thankful for medical professionals who do understand and don’t just label. So glad I read this book. It wasn’t always happy feels but it wasenlightening and heartwarming and mysterious at the same time.
February 20, 2023
Elle is living the ideal life. She and her husband, Rob, have a beautiful son and are raising him in a lovely home. She has everything she could want.
Jen is also happily married and has a beautiful little girl. She loves her job as director at a theater and never imagined she could be so happy.
Elle and Jen meet by chance at a support group and become good friends, something they realized they both lacked. Their children have also grown close. Unfortunately, their happiness is cut short when they find out that they are both married to the same man. How can their friendship ever survive such a shock?
The story is written from both Elle and Jen's perspectives. I appreciated getting to know both women separately and liked both of them a lot. Elle was a bit of a pushover, but she didn't know how to be any other way. Jen was completely opposite, but their friendship was wonderful. I was worried that the ending would be disappointing, but it wasn't badly done.
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon Books UK for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review
Jen is also happily married and has a beautiful little girl. She loves her job as director at a theater and never imagined she could be so happy.
Elle and Jen meet by chance at a support group and become good friends, something they realized they both lacked. Their children have also grown close. Unfortunately, their happiness is cut short when they find out that they are both married to the same man. How can their friendship ever survive such a shock?
The story is written from both Elle and Jen's perspectives. I appreciated getting to know both women separately and liked both of them a lot. Elle was a bit of a pushover, but she didn't know how to be any other way. Jen was completely opposite, but their friendship was wonderful. I was worried that the ending would be disappointing, but it wasn't badly done.
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon Books UK for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review
April 21, 2023
I really enjoyed His Secret Wife by Lisa Timoney, and for a couple of days, all I did was read, sitting in the sunshine in the garden. Cora and Harry both found their way into my heart and I loved that with the innocence of childhood, they were probably the best thing that happened to each other.
Elle is married to Rob, Jen is married to Bill and we realise from the beginning that Rob and Bill are the same man, who actually believes he is doing the right thing for both families! I did question how someone can be so deceptive and think he can keep things going with two wives indefinitely. Well, he certainly gave it a good go!
The author covered the kids’ diagnosis with differing forms of ADHD, with incredible knowledge, and she obviously did her research well. The story made me think about how difficult it must be for parents and teachers, whose children are perhaps a little different from their peers and how hard it is, as a child to try to fit into what is considered ‘normal’.
I will definitely be reading more of Lisa’s books and I would highly recommend His Secret Wife if you want something to read that you honestly won’t be able to put down.
Thank you to Avon Books UK for the opportunity to read and review His Secret Wife by Lisa Timoney.
Elle is married to Rob, Jen is married to Bill and we realise from the beginning that Rob and Bill are the same man, who actually believes he is doing the right thing for both families! I did question how someone can be so deceptive and think he can keep things going with two wives indefinitely. Well, he certainly gave it a good go!
The author covered the kids’ diagnosis with differing forms of ADHD, with incredible knowledge, and she obviously did her research well. The story made me think about how difficult it must be for parents and teachers, whose children are perhaps a little different from their peers and how hard it is, as a child to try to fit into what is considered ‘normal’.
I will definitely be reading more of Lisa’s books and I would highly recommend His Secret Wife if you want something to read that you honestly won’t be able to put down.
Thank you to Avon Books UK for the opportunity to read and review His Secret Wife by Lisa Timoney.
October 15, 2025
When the first impression is deceiving. *sorry, lil spoilers*
The third book from the once unknown to me, and now one of my favourite authors.
Was looking forward to this book. But holding it for the first time in my hands I got thinking and frowned.
After reading the first few chapters, thoughtfulness increased. One husband, two wives? Again? The first thing that comes to mind is the last of Karen Swan's Christmas stories.
But no, read on. This has absolutely nothing to do with the book mentioned above.
Yes, one husband (damn him) and two wives. But in addition, there is also a child in each family. Yes, two families on different sides of the city. And the story goes much deeper than just revealing the rogue. Here attention is not so much to a bad husband as to problems, especially to children's problems. It is important. It is sad. But it is interesting to read about it, because again it is about ordinary people and the same problems can live in the neighbourhood with each of us. This is good to know, it should not be ignored.
A superbly written story.
The third book from the once unknown to me, and now one of my favourite authors.
Was looking forward to this book. But holding it for the first time in my hands I got thinking and frowned.
After reading the first few chapters, thoughtfulness increased. One husband, two wives? Again? The first thing that comes to mind is the last of Karen Swan's Christmas stories.
But no, read on. This has absolutely nothing to do with the book mentioned above.
Yes, one husband (damn him) and two wives. But in addition, there is also a child in each family. Yes, two families on different sides of the city. And the story goes much deeper than just revealing the rogue. Here attention is not so much to a bad husband as to problems, especially to children's problems. It is important. It is sad. But it is interesting to read about it, because again it is about ordinary people and the same problems can live in the neighbourhood with each of us. This is good to know, it should not be ignored.
A superbly written story.
January 29, 2023
Two women meet and become firm friends. Their children both have the same condition, but with different symptoms. One child is introverted and the other is loquacious.
Jen and Elle both have the perfect life, but their husband's work away most of the time, and they are left bringing up the children and making the decisions.
When one of the children accidently hurts the other, the women discover that not only do their children have the same condition, but they have the same father.
I actually enjoyed this novel, the characters were very real, and the condition young Harry suffered from, Selective Mutism strikes very close to home for me.
I really did not like Rob or his father, excuses may be made for their behaviour, but then again, women all over the world seem to put up with their men, and forgive anything.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Jen and Elle both have the perfect life, but their husband's work away most of the time, and they are left bringing up the children and making the decisions.
When one of the children accidently hurts the other, the women discover that not only do their children have the same condition, but they have the same father.
I actually enjoyed this novel, the characters were very real, and the condition young Harry suffered from, Selective Mutism strikes very close to home for me.
I really did not like Rob or his father, excuses may be made for their behaviour, but then again, women all over the world seem to put up with their men, and forgive anything.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 13, 2023
I loved both of Lisa Timoney’s previous books, but I think that this is her best yet!
Told in a dual narrative between Elle and Jen, these two very different woman are both hugely relatable in their attitudes and their love for the children. As a tentative friendship grows between them, I found myself willing them to take a risk and reach out for help.
In the middle section of the novel, Timoney ratchets up the tension chapter on chapter until I had to force myself not to read so fast that I missed something. Such great plotting.
The writing is seamless, too, without a word out of place. Jen is a theatre director and I loved the way the production of Anthony and Cleopatra brings an unexpected dimension to the prose. So clever.
I planned to read this book over the coming week. Instead, I devoured it in two days. Absolutely loved it and can’t wait for more from this talented author.
Told in a dual narrative between Elle and Jen, these two very different woman are both hugely relatable in their attitudes and their love for the children. As a tentative friendship grows between them, I found myself willing them to take a risk and reach out for help.
In the middle section of the novel, Timoney ratchets up the tension chapter on chapter until I had to force myself not to read so fast that I missed something. Such great plotting.
The writing is seamless, too, without a word out of place. Jen is a theatre director and I loved the way the production of Anthony and Cleopatra brings an unexpected dimension to the prose. So clever.
I planned to read this book over the coming week. Instead, I devoured it in two days. Absolutely loved it and can’t wait for more from this talented author.
March 22, 2023
I loved this fast paced domestic drama. Timoney has a real gift for characterisation and both Elle and Jen were really well drawn. What many authors struggle with is getting child characters right not so here. Cora and Harry were fully three dimensional and perfectly depicted for the age of seven. Timoney perfectly shows the differing ways that ADHD can present and how the different sexes can present very differently again. As a neurodivergent Mum to two neurodivergent children this novel felt really well researched and sensitively handled.
I bonded with the two female ‘leads’ and was rooting for them all the way and loved watching their friendship develop.
There were a few twists I hadn’t anticipated which were good and the ending when it came made me cry and cry. I will miss hanging out with Elle and Jen now I’ve finished it.
I bonded with the two female ‘leads’ and was rooting for them all the way and loved watching their friendship develop.
There were a few twists I hadn’t anticipated which were good and the ending when it came made me cry and cry. I will miss hanging out with Elle and Jen now I’ve finished it.
October 27, 2024
I feel like I've read two stories in one: a fictional story about a man hiding two wives whose secret comes out, and a very realistic story dealing with children with social/emotional issues. I was glued to this book and didn't want to put it down!
Although each part was was good, I was especially interested in the children's issues. I taught school for thirty years and had students very similar to these. The parent support and the counselor/psychologist were so critical in helping these children. The author has a background in, or has done her research in child psychology dealing with ADHD and ADD. Unfortunately, not all children with issues have this type of support.
The two wives personalities were so very different. It was interesting to see how each one learned from the other, and how each one dealt with the husband.
Although each part was was good, I was especially interested in the children's issues. I taught school for thirty years and had students very similar to these. The parent support and the counselor/psychologist were so critical in helping these children. The author has a background in, or has done her research in child psychology dealing with ADHD and ADD. Unfortunately, not all children with issues have this type of support.
The two wives personalities were so very different. It was interesting to see how each one learned from the other, and how each one dealt with the husband.
May 5, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. I have chosen to write this honest review voluntarily and it reflects my personal opinion.
We know from the blurb that 2 women share the same husband, and whilst the wait for them to discover his deceit is about 50% of the book no page is wasted. Everything going on in the lives of the women and the children is important and engaging, and the aftermath of the discovery is delivered in a way that kept me reading, unable to put the book down. Whilst I cannot vouch for the accuracy of the details about the conditions the whole seems to be well-researched and credible making the entire subject matter engaging. I've signed up to follow this author after reading this book.
I agree that Jodi Picoult fans will enjoy this, I certainly did.
We know from the blurb that 2 women share the same husband, and whilst the wait for them to discover his deceit is about 50% of the book no page is wasted. Everything going on in the lives of the women and the children is important and engaging, and the aftermath of the discovery is delivered in a way that kept me reading, unable to put the book down. Whilst I cannot vouch for the accuracy of the details about the conditions the whole seems to be well-researched and credible making the entire subject matter engaging. I've signed up to follow this author after reading this book.
I agree that Jodi Picoult fans will enjoy this, I certainly did.
June 18, 2023
His Secret Wife
5⭐️ Highly recommend
Just whizzed through His Secret Wife in two sittings. It kept me turning the pages well into the early hours. Enjoyed the contrast of the two female character leads. Jen’s directness made me laugh and despite Elle’s character being somewhat crushed I didn’t feel like telling her to get a grip, but willed her on to become stronger and value herself.
The novel also shines a light upon some characteristics of neurodiversity and the difficulties that individuals face coping with its effects and diagnosis beyond preconceived stereotypes. Insightful.
I have read two books by this author previously, all with serious issues at their core yet handled deftly and with humour. I look forward to reading her next! Highly recommend.
5⭐️ Highly recommend
Just whizzed through His Secret Wife in two sittings. It kept me turning the pages well into the early hours. Enjoyed the contrast of the two female character leads. Jen’s directness made me laugh and despite Elle’s character being somewhat crushed I didn’t feel like telling her to get a grip, but willed her on to become stronger and value herself.
The novel also shines a light upon some characteristics of neurodiversity and the difficulties that individuals face coping with its effects and diagnosis beyond preconceived stereotypes. Insightful.
I have read two books by this author previously, all with serious issues at their core yet handled deftly and with humour. I look forward to reading her next! Highly recommend.
March 17, 2023
A dual narrative novel told from the perspective of 2 women, Elle and Jen. Both married with 7 year old children, they meet at a support group for parents of children with ADHD symptoms. But unbeknown to them, they have more than that in common. They discover purely by chance that they share a husband. As their lives unravel, will their friendship survive and what about the children?
This is a great family drama with a big emphasis on ADHD and all its varieties, no child can be placed into the same box, the author does a great job in highlighting all the complex issues parents and children face and it's written in an empathetic way
This is a great family drama with a big emphasis on ADHD and all its varieties, no child can be placed into the same box, the author does a great job in highlighting all the complex issues parents and children face and it's written in an empathetic way
March 6, 2023
The story of two women discovering they are married to the same man has been done over and over again, but this one is told with a new twist.
The twowomen meet through their children, become frinds, and discover their children share more than the same medical condition.
The book is entertaing, characters are wonderfully devolped and the story is new and refreshing.
Recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for granting me an advance copy of this book in return for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
The twowomen meet through their children, become frinds, and discover their children share more than the same medical condition.
The book is entertaing, characters are wonderfully devolped and the story is new and refreshing.
Recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for granting me an advance copy of this book in return for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 24, 2023
This was an interesting book and I certainly learned a lot more about ADHD and selective mutism than I knew.
Whilst I felt the story was slow to begin with, after a while the pace stepped up and I was caught up in it.
Interesting characters who were very credible. I thought the children were portrayed brilliantly and I really liked the bond between Harry and Cora, both with their own challenges but somehow an understanding between them.
A book which made me think about the difficulties of parents with neurodiverse children.
A good read about friendship and overcoming difficulties.
Whilst I felt the story was slow to begin with, after a while the pace stepped up and I was caught up in it.
Interesting characters who were very credible. I thought the children were portrayed brilliantly and I really liked the bond between Harry and Cora, both with their own challenges but somehow an understanding between them.
A book which made me think about the difficulties of parents with neurodiverse children.
A good read about friendship and overcoming difficulties.
May 24, 2023
The blurb (and the book title) actually gave the game away at the start, in that their partners were the same person. I felt this was a shame as the plot could have been better if I hadn’t known that upfront.
I couldn’t understand how Rob behaved the way he did towards Elle yet acted so wonderfully towards Jen. This is the reason for my lower mark. No excuse for his behaviour, but Elle was a drip, and needy.
All the ADHD information I found very interesting though.
I couldn’t understand how Rob behaved the way he did towards Elle yet acted so wonderfully towards Jen. This is the reason for my lower mark. No excuse for his behaviour, but Elle was a drip, and needy.
All the ADHD information I found very interesting though.
May 30, 2023
A great read
Okay it was a little far fetched, but this did nothing to detract from the story. I should think the author did a great deal of research into this book, I can think of several people in my life who have displayed various symptoms of ADD and ADHD to a more or lesser degree. This book could some give some measure and understanding to parents wondering what on earth is wrong with their child/children, asking themselves what are they doing wrong. A most enjoyable book, a very good read.
Okay it was a little far fetched, but this did nothing to detract from the story. I should think the author did a great deal of research into this book, I can think of several people in my life who have displayed various symptoms of ADD and ADHD to a more or lesser degree. This book could some give some measure and understanding to parents wondering what on earth is wrong with their child/children, asking themselves what are they doing wrong. A most enjoyable book, a very good read.
June 10, 2023
This was a very moving, emotional story with a lot to impact. Besides the great storyline it also gave a lot of information regarding ADHD that people may not realize. As the story is about two completely different women with children that each have a special issues and have the same father but that is unknown to them. I have know idea how the father Bill/Rob could keep up the lifestyle keeping two families. But it’s not him that makes the book so moving. It’s about what each woman goes through for their child. I’m very glad I read it and highly recommend it.
April 8, 2024
"What happens when his secret wife is the only one who can save your child?"
This was a sad read for me because it involved cheating and massive deception. The story was very involved and I had a hard time with it so...I fast-read and I don't think I missed much.
The cheating husband was a jerk and it was obvious that he didn't love his first wife.
Spoiler: So glad that neither woman gave him another chance and they became close friends raising their children as brother and sister.
I borrowed this book from my local library.
This was a sad read for me because it involved cheating and massive deception. The story was very involved and I had a hard time with it so...I fast-read and I don't think I missed much.
The cheating husband was a jerk and it was obvious that he didn't love his first wife.
Spoiler: So glad that neither woman gave him another chance and they became close friends raising their children as brother and sister.
I borrowed this book from my local library.
June 3, 2025
The very beginning of the book ( the preface ) caught my attention. The next few chapters were introducing who was who - it was a little slow moving, but okay. Then it drug on until you were almost done reading, where it picked up a little again. The ending was just okay.
The ADHD information was good, but was repeated incase you didn't get it the first time. Then the epilogue felt like a term paper of more information about selective mutism. I do like to learn while I read, but this felt like lecture notes.
The ADHD information was good, but was repeated incase you didn't get it the first time. Then the epilogue felt like a term paper of more information about selective mutism. I do like to learn while I read, but this felt like lecture notes.
February 6, 2023
Netgalley review: I really enjoyed this book. The way it was written from two perspectives made it a great read for me.
The detail it had around ADHD and different elements of it was very interesting, it gave an insight in to different challenges parents can face and how we can deal with things.
It was a very emotional story, but an enjoyable one.
I'd fully recommend this book and will definitely look for more from this author.
The detail it had around ADHD and different elements of it was very interesting, it gave an insight in to different challenges parents can face and how we can deal with things.
It was a very emotional story, but an enjoyable one.
I'd fully recommend this book and will definitely look for more from this author.
February 7, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Avon Books for an early copy of His Secret Wife. Well of course the title gripped me from the beginning and the plot was very engaging. Great cast of characters except for one but anything can happen in a book right? Thought provoking issues too, an all around wonderful read.
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