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Every Little Secret
She believed the lies... The truth will destroy her.
Maddy Saunders’ life is unravelling. After the heartbreaking, unexpected death of 5-year-old daughter Chloe, she’s trying desperately to keep her family together for other daughter, Emily. But when the police inform her that husband Max is missing, the rucksack found at the bottom of a local canal leading them to believe he has taken his own life, her grief takes a new and sharper turn.
Unable to believe that Max would abandon her and Emily, Maddy desperately searches for clues as to what has happened to her husband. But as she delves deeper into his secrets, Maddy finds a web of betrayal that forces her to re-examine everything about the life they have built together.
Maddened by grief, and forced into untangling Max’s lies, Maddy will stop at nothing to uncover the truth – even if it destroys her in the process.
A gripping, absolutely unputdownable psychological thriller that will have you hooked – perfect for fans of K.L. Slater, Shalini Boland and B.A. Paris.
Maddy Saunders’ life is unravelling. After the heartbreaking, unexpected death of 5-year-old daughter Chloe, she’s trying desperately to keep her family together for other daughter, Emily. But when the police inform her that husband Max is missing, the rucksack found at the bottom of a local canal leading them to believe he has taken his own life, her grief takes a new and sharper turn.
Unable to believe that Max would abandon her and Emily, Maddy desperately searches for clues as to what has happened to her husband. But as she delves deeper into his secrets, Maddy finds a web of betrayal that forces her to re-examine everything about the life they have built together.
Maddened by grief, and forced into untangling Max’s lies, Maddy will stop at nothing to uncover the truth – even if it destroys her in the process.
A gripping, absolutely unputdownable psychological thriller that will have you hooked – perfect for fans of K.L. Slater, Shalini Boland and B.A. Paris.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 23, 2020
287 people are currently reading
774 people want to read
About the author
Ruby Speechley
14 books157 followersRuby Speechley is a psychological thriller writer. Her debut novel, Someone Else’s Baby, was published by Hera Books on 25 July 2019.
You can contact her on Twitter: @rubyspeechley, Facebook: ‘Ruby Speechley Author’ or via her website: rubyspeechley.com
You can contact her on Twitter: @rubyspeechley, Facebook: ‘Ruby Speechley Author’ or via her website: rubyspeechley.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
April 24, 2020
4☆ Gripping, Suspenseful, Twisty, Compelling and I Highly Recommend Reading it.
Maddie is having a heartbreaking time, she has just lost her 5yr old daughter Chloe to meningitis and now just 3 weeks later the police have just told her that her husband Max has just killed himself, leaving behind just his bag.
Maddie has no idea why Max would kill himself leaving behind her and their other daughter 7yr old Emily
Was it grief? Why did he leave behind the bag? Was he in some kind of trouble?
These are all the questions Maddie so desperately needs answers too. So she decides that the only way to get answers is to go look. But will Maddie like what she's about to uncover? Was it grief that drove him off that bridge?
Every Little Secret is a compelling thriller with a dash of Mystery, that will keep you gripped till the very end.
Maddie is a character you will route for as she uncovers secrets and the truth. My heart went out to her, to go through what she's been through, and then finding the strength to carry on and get answers just highlights how amazing she is.
There are plenty of cleverly plotted twists and turns along the way to keep you guessing.
I appreciated the multiple POV especially as you got discover Max's story. Which I love with my thrillers.
Overall a fab thriller that is gripping, suspenseful, Twisty, compelling and I highly recommend reading it.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/0...
Maddie is having a heartbreaking time, she has just lost her 5yr old daughter Chloe to meningitis and now just 3 weeks later the police have just told her that her husband Max has just killed himself, leaving behind just his bag.
Maddie has no idea why Max would kill himself leaving behind her and their other daughter 7yr old Emily
Was it grief? Why did he leave behind the bag? Was he in some kind of trouble?
These are all the questions Maddie so desperately needs answers too. So she decides that the only way to get answers is to go look. But will Maddie like what she's about to uncover? Was it grief that drove him off that bridge?
Every Little Secret is a compelling thriller with a dash of Mystery, that will keep you gripped till the very end.
Maddie is a character you will route for as she uncovers secrets and the truth. My heart went out to her, to go through what she's been through, and then finding the strength to carry on and get answers just highlights how amazing she is.
There are plenty of cleverly plotted twists and turns along the way to keep you guessing.
I appreciated the multiple POV especially as you got discover Max's story. Which I love with my thrillers.
Overall a fab thriller that is gripping, suspenseful, Twisty, compelling and I highly recommend reading it.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/0...
April 25, 2020
Tents and gripping. Ruby Speechley has written a compulsive and emotional thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Mady recently lost her five-year-old daughter Chloe to meningitis. Trying to keep her self and her other daughter Emily‘s life together is a daily struggle. When the police show up at her front door to let her know that they believe her husband has committed suicide she does not know what to think. Mady cannot believe that her husband would do this to her, this leads to her trying to figure out the truth. As Mady begins to look into her husbands actions she begins to realize she really did not know him at all. What follows is a complex twisted story that held my interest from first page to last.
This is a difficult book to review because I don’t want to give away anything. Just know you will be right there beside Mady shaking your head and rolling your eyes. mady is a character you will definitely sympathize with and route four. I found myself crossing my fingers that Mady and Emily would get a happy ending.
*** Big thank you to Hera Books for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
This is a difficult book to review because I don’t want to give away anything. Just know you will be right there beside Mady shaking your head and rolling your eyes. mady is a character you will definitely sympathize with and route four. I found myself crossing my fingers that Mady and Emily would get a happy ending.
*** Big thank you to Hera Books for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
April 12, 2020
The first book I’ve read from this author and I was totally addicted to it.
Maddie is coming to terms with the death of her daughter Chloe aged 5 to Meningitis. When the police knock at her door she is distraught to hear that her Husband Max may have jumped off a bridge, his rucksack was found in the water below.
This story is told from several people’s perspectives and we get to see what Max was dealing with up to the night of his disappearance.
Maddy starts to investigate what has happened to Max and without giving anything away, discovers a side of her husband she never knew!!
I was completely swept away, with its numerous twists along the way. This will keep you hooked until the last page.
I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
Maddie is coming to terms with the death of her daughter Chloe aged 5 to Meningitis. When the police knock at her door she is distraught to hear that her Husband Max may have jumped off a bridge, his rucksack was found in the water below.
This story is told from several people’s perspectives and we get to see what Max was dealing with up to the night of his disappearance.
Maddy starts to investigate what has happened to Max and without giving anything away, discovers a side of her husband she never knew!!
I was completely swept away, with its numerous twists along the way. This will keep you hooked until the last page.
I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
April 16, 2020
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
Maddy's daughter Chloe ha passed away a few weeks ago after contacting meningitis. Now her husband, Max has went missing. Maddy is determined to find out what happened to him. But will she like what she finds out? The police had found a mey hidden in the lining of his rucksack. But Maddy had never seen the key before. Just how well did Maddy know her husband.
The ore Maddy digs into her husbands background th4 less she seems to know him. My heart went out to her. This is one of those stories where you can't say to much or it would spoil it for potential readers. The pace is fast in this well written book that's also tense and gripping. The moves between the past, 2011 and the present, 2019. This is an interesting read but I did feel there was a few questions i still needed answered.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Hera Books and the author Ruby Speechley for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Maddy's daughter Chloe ha passed away a few weeks ago after contacting meningitis. Now her husband, Max has went missing. Maddy is determined to find out what happened to him. But will she like what she finds out? The police had found a mey hidden in the lining of his rucksack. But Maddy had never seen the key before. Just how well did Maddy know her husband.
The ore Maddy digs into her husbands background th4 less she seems to know him. My heart went out to her. This is one of those stories where you can't say to much or it would spoil it for potential readers. The pace is fast in this well written book that's also tense and gripping. The moves between the past, 2011 and the present, 2019. This is an interesting read but I did feel there was a few questions i still needed answered.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Hera Books and the author Ruby Speechley for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 3, 2020
my 1st read from this author and very much enjoyed .Maddy and her husband Max .have to come to terms of there daughter s death .one afternoon Maddy opens the door to find 2 policemen on doorstep Max has gone missing all they find is his rucksack i not going to do spoilers but how this story unfolds is just brilliant this book would be any wifes nightmare very twisty and a can not stop reading book just brilliant
April 27, 2020
Maddy Saunders had spent her youth having it drummed into her by her mother that she was useless, unloveable and would never amount to anything. Maddy had thought that she had proved her mother wrong when she married Max and they had their two beautiful daughters Emily and Chloe.
But then the unthinkable happened, five year old Chloe died of meningitis and not long afterwards Max mysteriously disappeared. The police informed her that his rucksack had been found in the river but there was no sign of his body. Suddenly she found herself overwhelmed by all the old doubts and anxieties.
Unable to believe that Max would abandon her and Emily, Maddy desperately searches for clues as to what has happened to her husband. But as she delves deeper into his secrets, Maddy unearths a web of betrayal and lies that force her to re-examine everything about the life that they have built together.
Maddened by grief, how much more will Maddy be able to take before she is pushed over the edge into insanity.
The chapters of this enthralling story alternated between Maddy, Max and another character called Alison and flipped back and forth in time. We are taken back through the character's back stories, how Maddy and Max met, married, had their children and the events leading up to Max's disappearance. And also into events afterwards and the effects that his disappearance had on the two women. I surprisingly felt quite a bit of empathy for poor Maddy which is something that I probably wouldn't have said a year and a half ago. But a lot has changed since then and I now have more of a understanding about the complexities of the brain and mental health issues. I can't say I thought Alison was very likeable and neither was Max although he did have one redeemable quality. My heart went out to the poor children who had found themselves lumbered with this bunch of so called parents.
Every Little Secret is a realistic tale of deception, mental health issues and dual lives that hooks the reader in from the first page, drawing you into the character's fictional but believable lives. I really enjoyed this captivating and at times chilling thriller and would happily read more of this author's books in the future.
But then the unthinkable happened, five year old Chloe died of meningitis and not long afterwards Max mysteriously disappeared. The police informed her that his rucksack had been found in the river but there was no sign of his body. Suddenly she found herself overwhelmed by all the old doubts and anxieties.
Unable to believe that Max would abandon her and Emily, Maddy desperately searches for clues as to what has happened to her husband. But as she delves deeper into his secrets, Maddy unearths a web of betrayal and lies that force her to re-examine everything about the life that they have built together.
Maddened by grief, how much more will Maddy be able to take before she is pushed over the edge into insanity.
The chapters of this enthralling story alternated between Maddy, Max and another character called Alison and flipped back and forth in time. We are taken back through the character's back stories, how Maddy and Max met, married, had their children and the events leading up to Max's disappearance. And also into events afterwards and the effects that his disappearance had on the two women. I surprisingly felt quite a bit of empathy for poor Maddy which is something that I probably wouldn't have said a year and a half ago. But a lot has changed since then and I now have more of a understanding about the complexities of the brain and mental health issues. I can't say I thought Alison was very likeable and neither was Max although he did have one redeemable quality. My heart went out to the poor children who had found themselves lumbered with this bunch of so called parents.
Every Little Secret is a realistic tale of deception, mental health issues and dual lives that hooks the reader in from the first page, drawing you into the character's fictional but believable lives. I really enjoyed this captivating and at times chilling thriller and would happily read more of this author's books in the future.
March 29, 2020
My heart went out to Maddie when we first meet her. To lose a child is bad enough but then when her husband goes missing shortly after, well I could feel her whole world falling apart even further.
It’s hard to say to much about this story without giving any spoilers away. Things are not as clear cut as they first appear to be. In Maddie’s mission to discover the truth, she makes some shocking discoveries about her husband.
There is no way you can not get caught up in what is going on in Maddie’s life. There is a sense of foreboding, urging you to keep on going to see how things are going to turn out. I was desperate for Maddie and her daughter Emily to get a happy ending from all that is going on. Obviously you will have to read it for yourself to find out if they do get one or not.
Every Little Secret will leave you wondering how well you really know your partner. It makes for a compulsive read of which at times, pulled on my emotions. Who knows how any of us would react when pushed to the limit. A taut, gripping read that will have you turning the pages late into the night.
My thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources, Hera Books & NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
It’s hard to say to much about this story without giving any spoilers away. Things are not as clear cut as they first appear to be. In Maddie’s mission to discover the truth, she makes some shocking discoveries about her husband.
There is no way you can not get caught up in what is going on in Maddie’s life. There is a sense of foreboding, urging you to keep on going to see how things are going to turn out. I was desperate for Maddie and her daughter Emily to get a happy ending from all that is going on. Obviously you will have to read it for yourself to find out if they do get one or not.
Every Little Secret will leave you wondering how well you really know your partner. It makes for a compulsive read of which at times, pulled on my emotions. Who knows how any of us would react when pushed to the limit. A taut, gripping read that will have you turning the pages late into the night.
My thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources, Hera Books & NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
April 29, 2020
Maddy has such a beautiful life. Everything she has always wanted. Then, her oldest daughter,Chloe, dies and Maddy begins a slow descent into madness.
With the anniversary of Chloe's death coming up, Max, Maddy's husband, goes missing, With no body, the police suspect suicide. Maddy refuses to believe that Max is dead. She continues waiting for his return, as much for her youngest daughter, Emily, as for herself.
What she doesnt know is that Max is not his real name. What she doesnt know is that Max has gotten himself into an extraordinary mess. What she doesnt know is that Max has lost complete control. What she doesnt know will be the catalyst that drives Maddy to the edge of the abyss.
Will anyone come out of this unscathed? The answer is no.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and Ruby Speechley for a copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest review
With the anniversary of Chloe's death coming up, Max, Maddy's husband, goes missing, With no body, the police suspect suicide. Maddy refuses to believe that Max is dead. She continues waiting for his return, as much for her youngest daughter, Emily, as for herself.
What she doesnt know is that Max is not his real name. What she doesnt know is that Max has gotten himself into an extraordinary mess. What she doesnt know is that Max has lost complete control. What she doesnt know will be the catalyst that drives Maddy to the edge of the abyss.
Will anyone come out of this unscathed? The answer is no.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and Ruby Speechley for a copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest review
April 22, 2020
With a cover like that, how could the book not be addictive. I was zapped into the energy of the story as if it dared me to stop reading. Could I? Stop reading? No...siree...no. From beginning to end, it was a whirlpool of secrets and lies, revealed to me with a jaw-dropping effect often times. I tell ya... That author Ruby Speechley had a wicked mind that proved the adage - Hell hath no fury than a woman betrayed.
Having revelled in her previous book, I jumped into this one with a gutso. Max disappeared, his rucksack was found in the waters of the local canal. Did he jump from the bridge? Maddie his wife was shattered; they had just lost their baby daughter Chloe. Was that the reason which caused him to take such a drastic step? Every word written by this talented author invigorated me to read further. A chapter went on to two more until I reached the end at 4 am. This book was so worth losing sleep over.
Different POVs and dual timelines, the story opened the door to the lives of these characters. Clues led to investigation which led to reactions and counter actions, each one a vicious cycle. Grief and lies were a deadly combination. Shocks and minor tremors were felt every few chapters. The author knew how to keep the plot pulsating.
One compulsive read which was a domestic drama written in a suspenseful manner. The guys at Hera know how to pull out a winner!!
Always a Hera girl!!
Having revelled in her previous book, I jumped into this one with a gutso. Max disappeared, his rucksack was found in the waters of the local canal. Did he jump from the bridge? Maddie his wife was shattered; they had just lost their baby daughter Chloe. Was that the reason which caused him to take such a drastic step? Every word written by this talented author invigorated me to read further. A chapter went on to two more until I reached the end at 4 am. This book was so worth losing sleep over.
Different POVs and dual timelines, the story opened the door to the lives of these characters. Clues led to investigation which led to reactions and counter actions, each one a vicious cycle. Grief and lies were a deadly combination. Shocks and minor tremors were felt every few chapters. The author knew how to keep the plot pulsating.
One compulsive read which was a domestic drama written in a suspenseful manner. The guys at Hera know how to pull out a winner!!
Always a Hera girl!!
April 22, 2020
What happens when the life you have always known you discover is a complete lie? Maddy Saunders life is in complete disarray after the death of her 5 year old daughter Chloe. Maddy tries to rebuild the life they had for their other daughter Emily and husband Max, until a devastating news that her husband has taken his life. Maddy vows to learn the truth about why her husband would abandon them. As she delves deeper into finding what really happened, would Maddy be able to handle the truth.
I enjoy a great thriller read with plot twists that are brilliantly told and orchestrated - Ruby Speechley did just that and more. This was an amazing psychological thriller and family drama that is a must read for any thriller fans out there. I loved the pacing and the way the layers of this mystery thriller was revealed and all in the right time and moment.
I highly recommend this book for a fantastic thrill ride you need.
I enjoy a great thriller read with plot twists that are brilliantly told and orchestrated - Ruby Speechley did just that and more. This was an amazing psychological thriller and family drama that is a must read for any thriller fans out there. I loved the pacing and the way the layers of this mystery thriller was revealed and all in the right time and moment.
I highly recommend this book for a fantastic thrill ride you need.
March 1, 2024
Yes girl give us nothing 😐
This was inconsistent, and just not well-plotted.
This was inconsistent, and just not well-plotted.
November 21, 2024
2.5 Stars, Rounded Up.
Overwritten, predictable, and eye-rolling.
Not a good combo.
I listened to the audiobook read by Claire Storey, who did an outstanding job with the narration.
This 10-hour audiobook easily could have been a 6-hour audiobook.
April 22, 2020
This is a hard story to review without giving any spoilers so this is gonna be vague.
Maddy is struggling after her daughter died. When two policemen knock on her door to tell her her husband is missing and his rucksack has been found. Maddy is determined to find out what happened her husband but on doing that she realises she didn’t really know him like she thought she did.
Every Little Secret is a brilliant story with a gripping storyline. Definitely recommend this read.
Maddy is struggling after her daughter died. When two policemen knock on her door to tell her her husband is missing and his rucksack has been found. Maddy is determined to find out what happened her husband but on doing that she realises she didn’t really know him like she thought she did.
Every Little Secret is a brilliant story with a gripping storyline. Definitely recommend this read.
April 22, 2020
Maddy Saunders and her husband, Max, are grieving after the unexpected death of one of their daughters. When Max goes missing, possibly dead by suicide, Maddy can't believe she could face anything worse, but when she finds out one lie that Max told, more follow and her whole life threatens to unravel.
This was an okay read but to be honest, the synopsis made it sound much more mysterious than it actually was. Told from the views of several characters, the story is revealed piece by piece - but you probably can work out most of it. I also couldn't fathom whether I was supposed to feel sorry for Max (I didn't). Overall, it isn't a book I would pick up again. Nice cover though.
Thanks to NetGalley and publishers, Hera Books, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
This was an okay read but to be honest, the synopsis made it sound much more mysterious than it actually was. Told from the views of several characters, the story is revealed piece by piece - but you probably can work out most of it. I also couldn't fathom whether I was supposed to feel sorry for Max (I didn't). Overall, it isn't a book I would pick up again. Nice cover though.
Thanks to NetGalley and publishers, Hera Books, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
August 27, 2020
First, this is not what I'd call a psychological thriller. Not even close. There is a 'reveal' presented very early in the story which is the set up for the entire boring dull story. Dull flat storytelling of a dull flat plot. Zero surprises, no intrigue. Very amateurish writing and overly long and repetitive. Unbelievable dialogue. A total snoozefest, total schlock, utter dreck. Truly stunned by the high ratings by readers.
April 27, 2020
Maddy is trying to come to terms with the sudden death of her five year old daughter Chloe, to Meningitis. Her husband Max is often away working, so she is dealing with a lot on her own. One morning, the police knock at her door to tell her that her husband Max, appears to have jumped off a bridge, his rucksack was found in the water below. When the rucksack is returned to Maddy, what she finds inside sets her on a search and journey that will change her life and several others forever.
This story is told from three different perspectives. Much of it is told in reminisces so we learn about Maddy's and Max's past, as well as how they met, got together and eventually married. We learn what Max was dealing with up to the night of his disappearance and his deceptions. I will not say anymore about the plot, because you need to read this yourself to see what happens. I was completely drawn into this story, with its numerous twists along the way. This was a domestic thriller to some degree, but there was a bit of mystery as well. The story was well-paced and plotted. Even though Max has made a mess of several lives, he is not mean, he is not narcissistic, and he is even likable, which really surprised me. This is a story of duplicity and dual life which was quite intriguing to me. I was interested in reading the author's note at the back and why she wrote this story. I enjoyed reading the story of this family and was invested in their story right up to the final page. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
This story is told from three different perspectives. Much of it is told in reminisces so we learn about Maddy's and Max's past, as well as how they met, got together and eventually married. We learn what Max was dealing with up to the night of his disappearance and his deceptions. I will not say anymore about the plot, because you need to read this yourself to see what happens. I was completely drawn into this story, with its numerous twists along the way. This was a domestic thriller to some degree, but there was a bit of mystery as well. The story was well-paced and plotted. Even though Max has made a mess of several lives, he is not mean, he is not narcissistic, and he is even likable, which really surprised me. This is a story of duplicity and dual life which was quite intriguing to me. I was interested in reading the author's note at the back and why she wrote this story. I enjoyed reading the story of this family and was invested in their story right up to the final page. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
April 29, 2020
This story are told from a few different perspectives. So I can see it from a different angles.
I finished this book around 2am and I enjoyed it!! I feel bad for Maddy. She lost her daughter to an unexpected death few weeks ago then her husband is missing or they believe he might take his own life because they found his rucksack at the local canal.
It was fun reading Maddy's journey to find the truth about her husband but I don't like the way she treated Alison eventho I don't like her. It's kinda frustrating goshh
I wanted to know what actually happened to Max ? Why he did that? Goshh I hate him freaking much!! But then his intentions is not that bad you know. He doesn't want anyone to get hurt. Still...he should tell the truth instead of lying to everyone involved.
Thank you Netgalley for Every Little Secret ARC!
I finished this book around 2am and I enjoyed it!! I feel bad for Maddy. She lost her daughter to an unexpected death few weeks ago then her husband is missing or they believe he might take his own life because they found his rucksack at the local canal.
It was fun reading Maddy's journey to find the truth about her husband but I don't like the way she treated Alison eventho I don't like her. It's kinda frustrating goshh
I wanted to know what actually happened to Max ? Why he did that? Goshh I hate him freaking much!! But then his intentions is not that bad you know. He doesn't want anyone to get hurt. Still...he should tell the truth instead of lying to everyone involved.
Thank you Netgalley for Every Little Secret ARC!
April 25, 2020
If dynamic thrillers give you a buzz, then you must read
Every Little Secret
written by Ruby Speechley. Having read the intriguing synopsis I was hoping that I was going to be in for a treat with this one and it was such a fantastic novel!
Meet Maddy Saunders who is struggling to cope after the heartbreaking, unexpected death of her five-year-old daughter Chloe. She’s desperately attempting to keep her family together for the sake of her other daughter, Emily. But then the local police inform her that Max, her husband is missing, and the rucksack found at the bottom of a local canal has lead them to believe he has taken his own life. Maddy doesn't believe that Max would do that and so she embarks on her own search to discover what may have happened...
In Every Little Secret, the author explores the darkest corners of psychological torment in a mesmerising and chilling tale of menace, secrets, lies, and deviousness.
Narrated from multiple viewpoints, I was given the opportunity to see things from several angles, making the story altogether more interesting. The author cleverly drip-fed the reader snippets of key information so I was never exactly sure what the next development might be which also fuelled my need to continue reading. The characterisation was excellent, the characters very credible, though none were particularly likeable. However, I don't think this mattered as they perfectly befitted the storyline anyway. Every Little Secret brought me no disappointments, capturing my attention from the prologue to the final word. Ruby Speechley created an underlying sense of tension that was unyielding. I appreciated the tautness of the plot, the twists and revelations, and the overall quality of the writing. My interest never waned as the story barrelled its way towards an interesting resolution.
Every Little Secret is compelling fiction that I can highly recommend and I will be seeking a copy of Someone Else's Baby, the author's début novel.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Hera Books via NetGalley at my request and this review is my unbiased opinion.
Meet Maddy Saunders who is struggling to cope after the heartbreaking, unexpected death of her five-year-old daughter Chloe. She’s desperately attempting to keep her family together for the sake of her other daughter, Emily. But then the local police inform her that Max, her husband is missing, and the rucksack found at the bottom of a local canal has lead them to believe he has taken his own life. Maddy doesn't believe that Max would do that and so she embarks on her own search to discover what may have happened...
In Every Little Secret, the author explores the darkest corners of psychological torment in a mesmerising and chilling tale of menace, secrets, lies, and deviousness.
Narrated from multiple viewpoints, I was given the opportunity to see things from several angles, making the story altogether more interesting. The author cleverly drip-fed the reader snippets of key information so I was never exactly sure what the next development might be which also fuelled my need to continue reading. The characterisation was excellent, the characters very credible, though none were particularly likeable. However, I don't think this mattered as they perfectly befitted the storyline anyway. Every Little Secret brought me no disappointments, capturing my attention from the prologue to the final word. Ruby Speechley created an underlying sense of tension that was unyielding. I appreciated the tautness of the plot, the twists and revelations, and the overall quality of the writing. My interest never waned as the story barrelled its way towards an interesting resolution.
Every Little Secret is compelling fiction that I can highly recommend and I will be seeking a copy of Someone Else's Baby, the author's début novel.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Hera Books via NetGalley at my request and this review is my unbiased opinion.
May 1, 2020
I would firstly like to thank Netgalley and the publishers for allowing me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
This read had me questioning everything I know about my partner! Completely terrifying!
Intriguing and fast-paced, the plot unfolded perfectly, delivering a story that pulled on my emotions and invested me in the character's lives. I couldn't help but feel for Maddy and my heart dropped everytime a new piece of information was revealed. I was gripped from start to finish!
While I was left feeling rather unsatisfied by that conclusion, I have so many questions!, I still would definitely recommend this book.
Can't wait for this author's next!
This read had me questioning everything I know about my partner! Completely terrifying!
Intriguing and fast-paced, the plot unfolded perfectly, delivering a story that pulled on my emotions and invested me in the character's lives. I couldn't help but feel for Maddy and my heart dropped everytime a new piece of information was revealed. I was gripped from start to finish!
While I was left feeling rather unsatisfied by that conclusion, I have so many questions!, I still would definitely recommend this book.
Can't wait for this author's next!
April 2, 2020
WOW! Couldn't put this one down!
Maddy is visited by the local police to advise her that her husband, Max, is most likely dead. His rucksack was found in the water by a bridge not far from Maddy and Max's home. (But wasn't Max out of town for work?) A key is found bound to the rucksack later on by Maddy.
Heartbreak seems to run in Maddy's life. Their daughter, Chloe, died from meningitis at the age of 5 not long ago. But is Max possibly alive? If so - where IS he?
This story twists between 2011 and 2019 and all of the incidents that lead up to the ending. However, many twists along the way intersperse for a riveting read...
Highly Recommend!!!
Many Thanks to Hera Books and NetGalley for a wonderful adventure
November 17, 2020
I could not put this book down! All of the characters are so badly damaged from their pasts, it's hard to even be mad at them for some of the choices they make. The ending was left more open than I would have liked, but overall it was an excellent read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2020
Maddy Saunders gets a visit from the police saying her husband may have jumped off a bridge. He was spotted by someone on the railing and all that was found was his backpack. Maddy recognizes all of the items in the backpack except for a key with a number on it.
Maddy soon learns that Max has quit his job and that he was not a business partner where he worked as he had previously told her. In addition, his work attendance had been rather spotty.
Maddy is mother to Emily, Chloe and is expecting again. Sadly, young Chloe passed away a few weeks ago from meningitis. The family is still reeling from her death and now this. Could Max not have been able to live with the death of his precious daughter?
Maddy is beside herself trying to figure out what Max was doing if not working away from home as he told her. Determined to find the answer, she looks for any clue and the path she discovers uncovers something she never could imagine.
This book lets the reader know the big secret right away and then lets us see how Max was living his life. Of course, it is sad what he has done but he is obviously a weak man, but one who takes his responsibilities seriously even when what he is doing is wrong. I found some of the characters to be very gritty and the awful ways they live their lives. I hope that I have not deterred readers from this book nor given out any spoilers. Reminds me of the quote, “O what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive.” A favorite of mine!
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Maddy soon learns that Max has quit his job and that he was not a business partner where he worked as he had previously told her. In addition, his work attendance had been rather spotty.
Maddy is mother to Emily, Chloe and is expecting again. Sadly, young Chloe passed away a few weeks ago from meningitis. The family is still reeling from her death and now this. Could Max not have been able to live with the death of his precious daughter?
Maddy is beside herself trying to figure out what Max was doing if not working away from home as he told her. Determined to find the answer, she looks for any clue and the path she discovers uncovers something she never could imagine.
This book lets the reader know the big secret right away and then lets us see how Max was living his life. Of course, it is sad what he has done but he is obviously a weak man, but one who takes his responsibilities seriously even when what he is doing is wrong. I found some of the characters to be very gritty and the awful ways they live their lives. I hope that I have not deterred readers from this book nor given out any spoilers. Reminds me of the quote, “O what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive.” A favorite of mine!
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 4, 2023
I really wanted to like this book! I saw so many great reviews for it and so I picked up the audiobook and got cracking.
I wasn't a fan of the narrator, she had a voice that didn't allow me to always concentrate on 100% and because of that, I am sure I missed things, well I know I did!
But also, the characters just didn't make sense to me! When we have a dire situation with one of them and they are talking to the police, they didn't mention ANYTHING that had been happening to them that could indicate who was behind everything and I was getting frustrated! (Sorry for the crypticness but some things aren't mentioned in the blurb and I don't want to spoil it - but it is FRUSTRATING!)
I mean the storyline was intriguing as hell, and despite not realising for ages that we were going back in time to see how Max and Maddie got together. I was confused for a while and then things started to fall into place as we have another person added to the mix.
I am not sure how I feel about the characters, and I certainly felt for one more than the other. It wasn't an easy read and I suspected a few things before they came ahead. I have another book that I need to read by Ruby, but this wasn't my favourite by far. That is a shame as I was looking forward to it. This review has been so hard to write too because I haven't been able to talk about it in detail! But please do not get me wrong, I felt for Maddie, it was a sad tale for her and I really didn't want any of this for her, then her lid popped and well..............
I wasn't a fan of the narrator, she had a voice that didn't allow me to always concentrate on 100% and because of that, I am sure I missed things, well I know I did!
But also, the characters just didn't make sense to me! When we have a dire situation with one of them and they are talking to the police, they didn't mention ANYTHING that had been happening to them that could indicate who was behind everything and I was getting frustrated! (Sorry for the crypticness but some things aren't mentioned in the blurb and I don't want to spoil it - but it is FRUSTRATING!)
I mean the storyline was intriguing as hell, and despite not realising for ages that we were going back in time to see how Max and Maddie got together. I was confused for a while and then things started to fall into place as we have another person added to the mix.
I am not sure how I feel about the characters, and I certainly felt for one more than the other. It wasn't an easy read and I suspected a few things before they came ahead. I have another book that I need to read by Ruby, but this wasn't my favourite by far. That is a shame as I was looking forward to it. This review has been so hard to write too because I haven't been able to talk about it in detail! But please do not get me wrong, I felt for Maddie, it was a sad tale for her and I really didn't want any of this for her, then her lid popped and well..............
April 7, 2020
The book begins with a man in a dilemma. Then the story of Max’s family life unfolds.
He and his wife are dealing with the tragic loss of their daughter when Max suddenly disappears. What follows is the story of what happened before and after.
Whilst I did enjoy this book, there was something that stopped me from fully engaging with it. The tension built nicely, the premise of the plot was interesting yet I just felt it dipped in pace in the middle and became a bit of a chore to read.
The writing was effective in portraying the mental state of main characters. Where it jarred a bit was with the overlong setting descriptions and unnecessary detailed prose.
Overall, I would recommend this as it has an interesting premise with some good twists and turns.
I received an advance copy of this book from netgalley in return for an honest review.
He and his wife are dealing with the tragic loss of their daughter when Max suddenly disappears. What follows is the story of what happened before and after.
Whilst I did enjoy this book, there was something that stopped me from fully engaging with it. The tension built nicely, the premise of the plot was interesting yet I just felt it dipped in pace in the middle and became a bit of a chore to read.
The writing was effective in portraying the mental state of main characters. Where it jarred a bit was with the overlong setting descriptions and unnecessary detailed prose.
Overall, I would recommend this as it has an interesting premise with some good twists and turns.
I received an advance copy of this book from netgalley in return for an honest review.
June 11, 2020
Maddy and Max lost their 5 year old daughter Chloe just months ago. They've been trying to keep their life from falling apart for their older daughter Emily and the baby they are expecting. But then Max goes missing, seemingly dead at his own hand, leaving Maddy to pick up the pieces and to find answers to her questions.
Why does he have a key to someone else's house? Who is Max, really?
I found this one a bit of a slow burner, if I'm honest.
We start with the disappearance of Max, and his wife Maddy tries to make some sense of the situation. She soon realises she didn't really know Max and discovers the secrets he's been hiding. Around this point, the story picks up and it leads to a fast paced, gripping story.
I really enjoyed this one.
Why does he have a key to someone else's house? Who is Max, really?
I found this one a bit of a slow burner, if I'm honest.
We start with the disappearance of Max, and his wife Maddy tries to make some sense of the situation. She soon realises she didn't really know Max and discovers the secrets he's been hiding. Around this point, the story picks up and it leads to a fast paced, gripping story.
I really enjoyed this one.
April 28, 2020
Holy crap is this book messed up and I loved it in all of its deranged glory!
Maddy and Max are just kind of recovering from their daughter Chloe's death from meningitis and they have found out they are pregnant with their third child.
Then all of a sudden Max disappears without a trace.
This book is psychologically twisted with many twists and turns. It is written from a few different perspectives in past and present.
Thanks Netgalley and the publisher for my eARC in exchange for my honest review!
Maddy and Max are just kind of recovering from their daughter Chloe's death from meningitis and they have found out they are pregnant with their third child.
Then all of a sudden Max disappears without a trace.
This book is psychologically twisted with many twists and turns. It is written from a few different perspectives in past and present.
Thanks Netgalley and the publisher for my eARC in exchange for my honest review!
March 5, 2024
After the death of her 5 year old daughter, Maddy's spiraling while trying to keep it together for her husband and oldest daughter. When her husband goes missing, she's forced to investigate further and unravels his trail of lies.
I enjoyed Every Little Secret, it's suspenseful, entertaining and a quick read. I just found it lacking originality and because of that, it was predictable.
I enjoyed Every Little Secret, it's suspenseful, entertaining and a quick read. I just found it lacking originality and because of that, it was predictable.
April 15, 2021
Leads up to quite a fast paced, gripping thriller. I believe the ending could have been better as it was quite vague after the whole build up from the story.
July 12, 2021
I enjoyed the concept of the story, but I felt it dragged on.
May 16, 2020
Possible tiny spoilers? Just flagging to be careful
Every Little Secret is about what happens when someone lives two lives, but it gets too much so they jump off a bridge… and the chaos that ensues after for those left behind. That’s exactly what happens when Maddie goes to the door, to be told her husband Max has committed suicide. He’d always worked away, as a builder and decorator, so she’d only fleetingly saw him… but soon, despite being together for nearly a decade, having two kids and one on the way, she discovers she didn’t really know him at all. What happens when you find out the man you’ve shared a bed with, isn’t who he says he is? And then, as everything unravels for you, how will you pull yourself back out of the hole? Maddie has one hell of an upward struggle on her hands.
Written in third person with multiple narrators, the novel takes place between present day for those Max left behind, and the years leading up to him jumping, for Max. We learn his story, follow his deceit and lies, and witness what leads him to deciding he can’t take it anymore. During this, we also meet the other woman, and learn about his life with her… but this isn’t just a sad story of one man’s downfall, it’s also a psychological whirlwind tackling loss, grief, and nervous breakdowns. If you’re after a novel that’ll take you by surprise, hold onto you, and then spit you out, this is absolutely one to check out. I was gripped. I read this in a day, and as soon as I started, I couldn’t put it down. It’s not a twisting or turning novel per say, but it’ll punch you in the face when you’re least expecting it. I loved how fast it was, how nothing was sacred, and the different narrators. Altogether, I was in my element. If you love thrillers, check this out. Likewise, if you love something where someone’s decided to do something different, by blending genres, this isn’t one to sit on. Every Little Secret easily will be a new hard fave for many, and I can easily say it won me quickly, and hard. I’m genuinely not sure how else to shout, you need to read this.
This isn’t one I can talk too much about, as it needs to be experienced at the time, but I will say I loved the plot’s decent into madness. It’s a sad book, that’s for sure. Three weeks before the present day, Max and Maddie’s youngest passes from meningitis. Then, Max commits suicide. Then… well, without giving anything away, Maddie’s world falls out from under her. She’s distraught, not thinking straight, and does something sweet, shy Maddie would never have dreamt of. This is as much the story of one woman losing her mind, as it is the story of a man trying to stay afloat. These two are heartbreaking, and I loved every second of it. Max’s story didn’t resonate for me, but it’s so hard hitting, it can’t help but capture you. You start to empathize with him, and the character investment is shockingly strong here. I adored everyone, rooted for them, and then clutched my pearls as they did things I didn’t want them to do. The author had an intention, and went hard. My favorite is probably Max, which surprises me to say. Maddie is a close second, and I yearned for her happiness throughout. As I said, this is a sad story, about people trying to get through hardship. It’ll chew you up, it’ll have you screaming into the ether. It’ll have you shaking with confusion, and then unable to look away. I read this very quickly. When I tend to say I read a book over a day, I take breaks. I dip in and out… but this I read in hours. Even when I tried to look away, as I needed to think about what just happened, I immediately dove back in. This, for sure, will be one I read again.
So, did anything not work for me? If I’m totally truthful, the ending wasn’t my favorite. That’s not to say you won’t love it, but after everything, it didn’t deliver what I’d wanted it to. I’m not sure what I wanted… but I wasn’t the biggest fan. It also ended kinda abruptly, without a massively realistic outcome… but that’s the charm of it all. I suppose, in a novel that had me pausing to stare at the wall in disbelief, I had to expect something different… so in that regard, it works really well. Overall though, if anything else wasn’t for me, I truthfully can’t remember. This took me be surprise, and overcame my life for the time I read it. If you need something distracting right now, and I’m sure we all do, this is absolutely something to check out.
All in all, Every Little Secret is a stunning psychological thriller, that explores grief in a startling way. It looks at double lives, manipulation, and an unthinkable crime, all wrapped up in a fast paced, expertly written novel. This flows amazingly well. It felt fluid, any every narrator unique. If you’re after something special, make this your next read, you won’t be disappointed.
Every Little Secret is about what happens when someone lives two lives, but it gets too much so they jump off a bridge… and the chaos that ensues after for those left behind. That’s exactly what happens when Maddie goes to the door, to be told her husband Max has committed suicide. He’d always worked away, as a builder and decorator, so she’d only fleetingly saw him… but soon, despite being together for nearly a decade, having two kids and one on the way, she discovers she didn’t really know him at all. What happens when you find out the man you’ve shared a bed with, isn’t who he says he is? And then, as everything unravels for you, how will you pull yourself back out of the hole? Maddie has one hell of an upward struggle on her hands.
Written in third person with multiple narrators, the novel takes place between present day for those Max left behind, and the years leading up to him jumping, for Max. We learn his story, follow his deceit and lies, and witness what leads him to deciding he can’t take it anymore. During this, we also meet the other woman, and learn about his life with her… but this isn’t just a sad story of one man’s downfall, it’s also a psychological whirlwind tackling loss, grief, and nervous breakdowns. If you’re after a novel that’ll take you by surprise, hold onto you, and then spit you out, this is absolutely one to check out. I was gripped. I read this in a day, and as soon as I started, I couldn’t put it down. It’s not a twisting or turning novel per say, but it’ll punch you in the face when you’re least expecting it. I loved how fast it was, how nothing was sacred, and the different narrators. Altogether, I was in my element. If you love thrillers, check this out. Likewise, if you love something where someone’s decided to do something different, by blending genres, this isn’t one to sit on. Every Little Secret easily will be a new hard fave for many, and I can easily say it won me quickly, and hard. I’m genuinely not sure how else to shout, you need to read this.
This isn’t one I can talk too much about, as it needs to be experienced at the time, but I will say I loved the plot’s decent into madness. It’s a sad book, that’s for sure. Three weeks before the present day, Max and Maddie’s youngest passes from meningitis. Then, Max commits suicide. Then… well, without giving anything away, Maddie’s world falls out from under her. She’s distraught, not thinking straight, and does something sweet, shy Maddie would never have dreamt of. This is as much the story of one woman losing her mind, as it is the story of a man trying to stay afloat. These two are heartbreaking, and I loved every second of it. Max’s story didn’t resonate for me, but it’s so hard hitting, it can’t help but capture you. You start to empathize with him, and the character investment is shockingly strong here. I adored everyone, rooted for them, and then clutched my pearls as they did things I didn’t want them to do. The author had an intention, and went hard. My favorite is probably Max, which surprises me to say. Maddie is a close second, and I yearned for her happiness throughout. As I said, this is a sad story, about people trying to get through hardship. It’ll chew you up, it’ll have you screaming into the ether. It’ll have you shaking with confusion, and then unable to look away. I read this very quickly. When I tend to say I read a book over a day, I take breaks. I dip in and out… but this I read in hours. Even when I tried to look away, as I needed to think about what just happened, I immediately dove back in. This, for sure, will be one I read again.
So, did anything not work for me? If I’m totally truthful, the ending wasn’t my favorite. That’s not to say you won’t love it, but after everything, it didn’t deliver what I’d wanted it to. I’m not sure what I wanted… but I wasn’t the biggest fan. It also ended kinda abruptly, without a massively realistic outcome… but that’s the charm of it all. I suppose, in a novel that had me pausing to stare at the wall in disbelief, I had to expect something different… so in that regard, it works really well. Overall though, if anything else wasn’t for me, I truthfully can’t remember. This took me be surprise, and overcame my life for the time I read it. If you need something distracting right now, and I’m sure we all do, this is absolutely something to check out.
All in all, Every Little Secret is a stunning psychological thriller, that explores grief in a startling way. It looks at double lives, manipulation, and an unthinkable crime, all wrapped up in a fast paced, expertly written novel. This flows amazingly well. It felt fluid, any every narrator unique. If you’re after something special, make this your next read, you won’t be disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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