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My Husband's Secret
From the bestselling author of My Sister’s Child comes a new emotional family drama about love, lies and the lengths that we will go to for the ones we love.
Caitlin Garvey has longed for this moment. The day her husband, Jack, would walk back through the door, and tell her all he ever wanted was to be with her.
Only this isn’t quite the reunion she had in mind. Jack has been in a hit and run accident. He has no memory of why he left Caitlin, no clue about his new family who are worried he’s missing, and no recollection of the phone call he made two weeks ago – I made a terrible mistake that I can’t put right. All I can do is get out.
Jack is different to the man that walked out a year ago – his mood seems more volatile, and Caitlin is certain he is hiding a secret of his own.
But Caitlin finally has her husband by her side and with Jack suffering from amnesia, surely the easiest thing would be to stay quiet… but can you really trust a man who simply vanished from your life?
Caitlin Garvey has longed for this moment. The day her husband, Jack, would walk back through the door, and tell her all he ever wanted was to be with her.
Only this isn’t quite the reunion she had in mind. Jack has been in a hit and run accident. He has no memory of why he left Caitlin, no clue about his new family who are worried he’s missing, and no recollection of the phone call he made two weeks ago – I made a terrible mistake that I can’t put right. All I can do is get out.
Jack is different to the man that walked out a year ago – his mood seems more volatile, and Caitlin is certain he is hiding a secret of his own.
But Caitlin finally has her husband by her side and with Jack suffering from amnesia, surely the easiest thing would be to stay quiet… but can you really trust a man who simply vanished from your life?
293 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 30, 2022
About the author
Karen Clarke
40 books284 followersI live in Buckinghamshire with my husband and three grown-up children where I write psychological thrillers for HQDigital/HarperCollins and romantic comedy novels published by Bookouture.
Over the years I've been a secretary/bookkeeper, a wedding photographer, a pub manager, I've worked in a supermarket, a newsagent's and as a librarian - all good for story ideas.
I now write full-time and when I'm not writing, I read a lot, enjoy walking - which is good for plot-wrangling and ideas - photography, watching Netflix, baking and eating cakes. And then more walking to work off the cakes.
Over the years I've been a secretary/bookkeeper, a wedding photographer, a pub manager, I've worked in a supermarket, a newsagent's and as a librarian - all good for story ideas.
I now write full-time and when I'm not writing, I read a lot, enjoy walking - which is good for plot-wrangling and ideas - photography, watching Netflix, baking and eating cakes. And then more walking to work off the cakes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
June 23, 2022
Catlin Garvey has longed for this moment. The day her husband, Jack, would walk back through the door, and tell her all he ever wanted was to be with her. Only this isn't quite the reunion she had in mind. Jack had been in a hit and run accident. He has no memory of why he left Caitlin, no clue about his new family who are worried he's missing, and no recollection of the phone call he made two weeks ago - I made a terrible mistake that I can't out right. All I can do is get out. Jack is a different to the man that walked out a year ago. But can you really trust a man who simply vanished from your life.
This is one of those books that you can't say too much about as you don't want to spoil it for potential readers. I was quickly pulled into this story that's told from Caitlin and and Lydia's perspectives. This is a quick and easy book to read, There's plenty of twists and the suspense builds throughout the story. This well written book held my attention throughout.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HQ and the author #KarenClarke for my ARC of #MyHusbandsSecret in exchange for an honest review.
This is one of those books that you can't say too much about as you don't want to spoil it for potential readers. I was quickly pulled into this story that's told from Caitlin and and Lydia's perspectives. This is a quick and easy book to read, There's plenty of twists and the suspense builds throughout the story. This well written book held my attention throughout.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HQ and the author #KarenClarke for my ARC of #MyHusbandsSecret in exchange for an honest review.
June 9, 2022
I’ll admit I was worried reading the first few chapters but this ended up being a ton of fun! At first I thought it was just two thots fighting over the same bad dude, looking desperate, but it was not that at all.
Caitlin receives a call that her estranged husband Jack has been in a hit and run accident and is in the hospital asking for her. When she arrives, she finds out he has amnesia. He has no idea they’ve been separated for a year! She didn’t want the split so is this the perfect chance to start over? *hehe* She has her work cut out for her with the logistics, for example, why “they” moved and where his things are, but she’s taking it a day at a time.
She didn’t know her biggest hurdle was going to be Lydia, a walking roadblock of a woman he’d been seeing while they’d been separated the previous year. Lydia does her own digging and finds out where he is and wants to tell him the truth. Her truth. What is the truth? We can tell both women have betrayed Jack and that Jack may not be the kind and loving man we have come to think he is.
Jack appeared to be running from something but from what or whom? Who mowed him down like Mr. Magoo and left? Does he really have amnesia? His memory can be quite selective.
This had twists and turns I never saw coming! It was a quick read full of suspense and interesting characters and that’s what I look for in a book, honestly.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read and review!
Caitlin receives a call that her estranged husband Jack has been in a hit and run accident and is in the hospital asking for her. When she arrives, she finds out he has amnesia. He has no idea they’ve been separated for a year! She didn’t want the split so is this the perfect chance to start over? *hehe* She has her work cut out for her with the logistics, for example, why “they” moved and where his things are, but she’s taking it a day at a time.
She didn’t know her biggest hurdle was going to be Lydia, a walking roadblock of a woman he’d been seeing while they’d been separated the previous year. Lydia does her own digging and finds out where he is and wants to tell him the truth. Her truth. What is the truth? We can tell both women have betrayed Jack and that Jack may not be the kind and loving man we have come to think he is.
Jack appeared to be running from something but from what or whom? Who mowed him down like Mr. Magoo and left? Does he really have amnesia? His memory can be quite selective.
This had twists and turns I never saw coming! It was a quick read full of suspense and interesting characters and that’s what I look for in a book, honestly.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read and review!
July 31, 2022
My Husband’s Secret
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Thriller
Format: Kindle eBook
Date Published: 6/30/22
Author: Karen Clarke
Publisher: HQ Digital
Pages: 293
Goodreads Rating: 3.97
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from NetGalley and HQ Digital and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: Jack has been in a hit and run accident. He has no memory of why he left Caitlin, no clue about his new family who are worried he’s missing, and no recollection of the phone call he made two weeks ago – I made a terrible mistake that I can’t put right. All I can do is get out. Jack is different to the man that walked out a year ago – his mood seems more volatile, and Caitlin is certain he is hiding a secret of his own. But Caitlin finally has her husband by her side and with Jack suffering from amnesia, surely the easiest thing would be to stay quiet… but can you really trust a man who simply vanished from your life?
My Thoughts: The story is narrated by Caitlin and Lydia, from their perspectives. The story does start out slow but quickly picks up. I love the dual narration as you get both sides of the equation, but then you have to weed out the truth. The characters were well developed with depth, emotion, mysterious, and work together well, not everyone is likable. The author does a brilliant job of playing off each of the women’s personality. The author’s writing style was complex, twisty, suspenseful, and gripping. It was a fast paced, page turning (after the initial slow start) that I read quickly. The story is built well, starts with character building and backstory filling, has multiple twisty layers to the plot, and the ending was a bit of a intertwined web, but brilliant. Clarke’s writing makes you feel like you are right there in the scene with the characters, and I love that. This is a first author for me, but will not be a last. If you like a good domestic thriller, I would recommend picking up this book that was released last month.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Thriller
Format: Kindle eBook
Date Published: 6/30/22
Author: Karen Clarke
Publisher: HQ Digital
Pages: 293
Goodreads Rating: 3.97
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from NetGalley and HQ Digital and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: Jack has been in a hit and run accident. He has no memory of why he left Caitlin, no clue about his new family who are worried he’s missing, and no recollection of the phone call he made two weeks ago – I made a terrible mistake that I can’t put right. All I can do is get out. Jack is different to the man that walked out a year ago – his mood seems more volatile, and Caitlin is certain he is hiding a secret of his own. But Caitlin finally has her husband by her side and with Jack suffering from amnesia, surely the easiest thing would be to stay quiet… but can you really trust a man who simply vanished from your life?
My Thoughts: The story is narrated by Caitlin and Lydia, from their perspectives. The story does start out slow but quickly picks up. I love the dual narration as you get both sides of the equation, but then you have to weed out the truth. The characters were well developed with depth, emotion, mysterious, and work together well, not everyone is likable. The author does a brilliant job of playing off each of the women’s personality. The author’s writing style was complex, twisty, suspenseful, and gripping. It was a fast paced, page turning (after the initial slow start) that I read quickly. The story is built well, starts with character building and backstory filling, has multiple twisty layers to the plot, and the ending was a bit of a intertwined web, but brilliant. Clarke’s writing makes you feel like you are right there in the scene with the characters, and I love that. This is a first author for me, but will not be a last. If you like a good domestic thriller, I would recommend picking up this book that was released last month.
May 28, 2022
Thank you HQ, NetGalley and Karen Clarke for giving me the opportunity to read My Husband’s Secrets. In return I will give my honest opinion of this book.
I’m when browsing, I was drawn to the cover. A beach, check, a pink dress, check. The word “secret” in the title, you’ve got me.
Caitlin’s husband Jack has been in a nasty hit and run accident and returns home. I have been reading so many books lately where the heroine wakes up with memory loss, so this is a nice change for once. The problem is, Jack does not remember recent events, not even their separation at first. Coincidence or on purpose? Then there is Jack’s other “family”, - forgotten - and Caitlin’s “friend” Owen, who does not quite get the hint.
The book is written from multiple point of views, Caitlin’s POV and Lydia’s. I do prefer a book written from first person POV. It starts really slow and feels more like a family drama rather than thriller at first. It picks up at some point and I actually enjoyed reading it. The ending was not quite unexpected, but I found it nicely done. The wheel was not invented again, but I was entertained and that’s all I ask for.
This was my first book by Karen Clark and I found myself enjoying her style of writing. I will definitely pick up some of her other books!
I’m when browsing, I was drawn to the cover. A beach, check, a pink dress, check. The word “secret” in the title, you’ve got me.
Caitlin’s husband Jack has been in a nasty hit and run accident and returns home. I have been reading so many books lately where the heroine wakes up with memory loss, so this is a nice change for once. The problem is, Jack does not remember recent events, not even their separation at first. Coincidence or on purpose? Then there is Jack’s other “family”, - forgotten - and Caitlin’s “friend” Owen, who does not quite get the hint.
The book is written from multiple point of views, Caitlin’s POV and Lydia’s. I do prefer a book written from first person POV. It starts really slow and feels more like a family drama rather than thriller at first. It picks up at some point and I actually enjoyed reading it. The ending was not quite unexpected, but I found it nicely done. The wheel was not invented again, but I was entertained and that’s all I ask for.
This was my first book by Karen Clark and I found myself enjoying her style of writing. I will definitely pick up some of her other books!
January 16, 2023
I did not enjoy this story as much as I wanted to because I disliked the characters: they were sly and deceitful. I struggled to keep the identities of Lydia and Caitlin separated, particularly as every chapter switched to the different character. For me, there wasn’t enough to differentiate them and I could not keep track of how they were involved in Jack’s life.
Reading this book, I had wild theories about this apparent love triangle. When Caitlin collects Jack from the hospital after a nasty accident, she sees it as the opportunity she needs to start her marriage afresh – after all, Jack has amnesia and cannot remember anything. As the story progresses, readers learn about Jack’s previous life and how his marriage to Caitlin had broken down. However, it would seem that Jack leaving Caitlin was not a lonely time for him and this is where Lydia enters the plot. She was seeing Jack when he was in Brighton and is convinced that if post-accident Jack will see Lydia, he will remember everything and leave his wife for good.
Therefore, this story is all about the will of two women who are determined to have Jack exactly where it suits them. Consequently, I found the women in this novel to be selfish and manipulative. For much of the story, Caitlin is consumed by guilt and worry about Jack discovering the truth and leaving her all over again. I wanted her to be honest, rather than carrying out this subterfuge for her own personal gain. On the other hand, Lydia does not think twice about abandoning her son in order to chase after Jack and I disliked her lack of parenting skills and careless nature – she barely thinks about her son in her obsession to make contact with Jack.
Unfortunately, I don’t think the writer completely capitalises on Jack’s character. I thought the plot was in desperate need for Jack’s perspective and for the reader to be influenced that he knows more than he portrays. I wanted there to be more deception, for there to be thrills and suspense, rather than just seeing warring women at work. This is why I persevered with reading this book until the very end: I wanted to know if my more exciting predictions would be proven correct. Alas, no.
The truths that are revealed at the end did not have me gasping in disbelief and I think this was because it felt so ordinary and not very suspenseful. It was only the Epilogue that really had me thinking and this just demonstrated how uninterested I became in the narrative. Even when both Caitlin and Lydia receive ambiguous messages, I could not get a sense of danger, instead feeling slightly bored by the tedium. This novel lacked the pace and suspense I was looking for in a read and I found the overall plot to be quite mundane.
With thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Reading this book, I had wild theories about this apparent love triangle. When Caitlin collects Jack from the hospital after a nasty accident, she sees it as the opportunity she needs to start her marriage afresh – after all, Jack has amnesia and cannot remember anything. As the story progresses, readers learn about Jack’s previous life and how his marriage to Caitlin had broken down. However, it would seem that Jack leaving Caitlin was not a lonely time for him and this is where Lydia enters the plot. She was seeing Jack when he was in Brighton and is convinced that if post-accident Jack will see Lydia, he will remember everything and leave his wife for good.
Therefore, this story is all about the will of two women who are determined to have Jack exactly where it suits them. Consequently, I found the women in this novel to be selfish and manipulative. For much of the story, Caitlin is consumed by guilt and worry about Jack discovering the truth and leaving her all over again. I wanted her to be honest, rather than carrying out this subterfuge for her own personal gain. On the other hand, Lydia does not think twice about abandoning her son in order to chase after Jack and I disliked her lack of parenting skills and careless nature – she barely thinks about her son in her obsession to make contact with Jack.
Unfortunately, I don’t think the writer completely capitalises on Jack’s character. I thought the plot was in desperate need for Jack’s perspective and for the reader to be influenced that he knows more than he portrays. I wanted there to be more deception, for there to be thrills and suspense, rather than just seeing warring women at work. This is why I persevered with reading this book until the very end: I wanted to know if my more exciting predictions would be proven correct. Alas, no.
The truths that are revealed at the end did not have me gasping in disbelief and I think this was because it felt so ordinary and not very suspenseful. It was only the Epilogue that really had me thinking and this just demonstrated how uninterested I became in the narrative. Even when both Caitlin and Lydia receive ambiguous messages, I could not get a sense of danger, instead feeling slightly bored by the tedium. This novel lacked the pace and suspense I was looking for in a read and I found the overall plot to be quite mundane.
With thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 24, 2022
I liked the way there were clues written in about what was happening in Jack's life.
The second half was much better as the thrilling sections began then.
Written in dual POVs, I liked how the author played off the women's craziness. Though for the life of me, I couldn't begin to guess why they both wanted Jack.
I knew where the story was heading to right from the beginning. But the journey to the end wasn't so bad.
A thriller that did make me forget my chores as I wanted to know which whacky woman would get him, so I would stay it was entertaining to read.
The second half was much better as the thrilling sections began then.
Written in dual POVs, I liked how the author played off the women's craziness. Though for the life of me, I couldn't begin to guess why they both wanted Jack.
I knew where the story was heading to right from the beginning. But the journey to the end wasn't so bad.
A thriller that did make me forget my chores as I wanted to know which whacky woman would get him, so I would stay it was entertaining to read.
June 28, 2022
This story is told from two perspectives. That of Caitlin, Jack's wife who he left year ago, and Lydia, the woman he'd been seeing after the breakup. Jack gets hit by a car and in the hospital calls Caitlin. Shocked to hear from him and of his accident, she rushes to him without a second thought. Once she gets there she realizes that his memory of the accident and the past year has been wiped clean. He has no recollection of their breakup. So, she takes him home hoping this means they'll get a fresh start because she still loves him. But Lydia is looking for him too. It's only a matter of time before those two barreling trains collide. And still, aside from all that, things about Jack are odd and it was evident there was something more sinister going on behind his accident and his amnesia.
This hooked me from the first chapter. I was intrigued and invested right away. Several cars of revelation and drama were careening toward each other and I was breathless reading to see which crashed first. Then things took an unexpected turn; the whole thing topped over on its head. Who was the snake in the grass and when would they strike?
Gripping, full of suspense, addictive. Full of mysteries to be solved and twists to shock. The ending was a tangled web, however, I had guessed most of it. Not bad at all.
This hooked me from the first chapter. I was intrigued and invested right away. Several cars of revelation and drama were careening toward each other and I was breathless reading to see which crashed first. Then things took an unexpected turn; the whole thing topped over on its head. Who was the snake in the grass and when would they strike?
Gripping, full of suspense, addictive. Full of mysteries to be solved and twists to shock. The ending was a tangled web, however, I had guessed most of it. Not bad at all.
June 3, 2022
My Husband's Secret sees Caitlin look after her husband Jack after he is involved in an accident, except that they aren't together anymore! Jack suffers from amnesia and can't rememer they were separated a year ago, let alone the fact that he is now in love with his new partner, Lydia!
This book was very dark and the twist was quite a surprise. I enjoyed that it was written from both Caitlin's and Lydia's POV, as it offered some light into their stories.
The book was a very easy read, I finished it in two sittings. Although this is not really a rarity nowadays, I don't think I've read a book like this before (and I read a lot of domestic thrillers)! I really enjoyed Karen Clarke's writing. I am very intrigued by this author now and will definitely check out her other books.
goodreads.com/booksireadandliked
Disclosure: I would like to thank the publisher and author for my advanced review copy of the book. This is my honest review
This book was very dark and the twist was quite a surprise. I enjoyed that it was written from both Caitlin's and Lydia's POV, as it offered some light into their stories.
The book was a very easy read, I finished it in two sittings. Although this is not really a rarity nowadays, I don't think I've read a book like this before (and I read a lot of domestic thrillers)! I really enjoyed Karen Clarke's writing. I am very intrigued by this author now and will definitely check out her other books.
goodreads.com/booksireadandliked
Disclosure: I would like to thank the publisher and author for my advanced review copy of the book. This is my honest review
September 17, 2022
3.5 ⭐️ My Husband’s Secret was told by dual points of view. It starts with a quick dive into the story. It almost felt like the reader was given a super fast recap to bring us up to present day. Caitlin and Jack were so in love. A betrayal of trust separated them and now Caitlin has her beloved back, but has no idea what he’s been up to for the last year. Lydia has found her soulmate and believes Jack is the puzzle piece that completes her family. After a hit and run-Jack has amnesia and Caitlin gets her second chance. Although, she has to fight for it.
Early on, it was clear that both women were wackadoodles. I couldn’t decide which one was more delusional. Caitlin was repeatedly warned that she was in danger although it was unclear why at first or why people had a reason to think that. I was busy trying to process the women’s craziness for the first 50-60% of the book. After the mid point, I felt it took off. I was engaged the whole time trying to figure it out. Overall, I felt it was a bit rushed. The women were both a bit over the top in their neediness and low self esteem. I was thinking a solid three, but the ending raised it a bit for me.
Early on, it was clear that both women were wackadoodles. I couldn’t decide which one was more delusional. Caitlin was repeatedly warned that she was in danger although it was unclear why at first or why people had a reason to think that. I was busy trying to process the women’s craziness for the first 50-60% of the book. After the mid point, I felt it took off. I was engaged the whole time trying to figure it out. Overall, I felt it was a bit rushed. The women were both a bit over the top in their neediness and low self esteem. I was thinking a solid three, but the ending raised it a bit for me.
July 3, 2022
Review
Honestly this author can write. I love Karen's books. They really do keep you guessing. Karen is an instant buy author for me. There hasn't been a single book that I've not enjoyed and this was no exception.
I found this a little harder to get into purely due to me getting my head round the characters and their lives. I loved that it was set down the road from where I live.
The characters as always are really well developed and you feel like you've know them forever. Karen's writing always makes you feel like you are in the scene and I love that.
Another 5⭐ read from this author.
Honestly this author can write. I love Karen's books. They really do keep you guessing. Karen is an instant buy author for me. There hasn't been a single book that I've not enjoyed and this was no exception.
I found this a little harder to get into purely due to me getting my head round the characters and their lives. I loved that it was set down the road from where I live.
The characters as always are really well developed and you feel like you've know them forever. Karen's writing always makes you feel like you are in the scene and I love that.
Another 5⭐ read from this author.
July 30, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley, HarperCollinsPublishers Ltd and Karen Clarke for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story is told by Caitlin, the woman that Jack left a year ago; and Lydia, the woman he's been in a relationship with since his breakup with Caitlin. When Jack is involved in a hit and run, it's Caitlin he calls to come and collect him from the hospital, not Lydia. It becomes apparent that Jack is suffering with amnesia and has no recollection of the past year or Lydia, and that there may be something more sinister going on.
This story begins slowly but soon gathers pace, and was engaging and addictive throughout. It's full of twists and turns, and had me questioning everything and everyone. The ending was a tangled web that I didn't see coming until it was unfolding before my eyes.
This was the first book I have read by Karen Clarke, I'm sure it won't be the last.
The story is told by Caitlin, the woman that Jack left a year ago; and Lydia, the woman he's been in a relationship with since his breakup with Caitlin. When Jack is involved in a hit and run, it's Caitlin he calls to come and collect him from the hospital, not Lydia. It becomes apparent that Jack is suffering with amnesia and has no recollection of the past year or Lydia, and that there may be something more sinister going on.
This story begins slowly but soon gathers pace, and was engaging and addictive throughout. It's full of twists and turns, and had me questioning everything and everyone. The ending was a tangled web that I didn't see coming until it was unfolding before my eyes.
This was the first book I have read by Karen Clarke, I'm sure it won't be the last.
June 29, 2022
I got Husband’s Secret by Karen Clarke for free and I am giving this review freeley using my own opinions.
My Husband’s Secret tells the story of Jack who after leaving his wife for a year suddenly contacts her out of the blue after being in an accident where he lost his memory.
The story is told through two different perspectives throughout the novel which allows we as readers to try and knit the secret that
These are Caitlin Jack’s wife who because of his memory loss tries to keep the fact that they have been separated for a year from her husband so the marriage can return to normal.
The Second point of view is Lydia, who Jack has been living with during the time he has been away from his wife. Who is trying to get Jack to remember that he has separated from his wife and to come back to her.
I know some readers out there do not like more than one point of view in the novels as there are times when the writer's style can make it either difficult or impossible for readers to follow whose point of view you are reading about at any time.
However, Karen Clarke the writer gets around this problem by only changing perspective at the start of each chapter.
Having the two points of view allows the reader to try and work out what is the secret that Jack is holding on to, particularly in that his personality has completely changed in the year that he has been away.
The Husband’s Secret is at its heart a simple domestic thriller with a simple twist, in the story that really for me makes this type of genre one that can hold a mirror to our society and still make an enjoyable novel.
This makes Husband’s Secret by Karen Clarke a novel that will give the reader something to think about while still being a book that is very easy to recommend,
My Husband’s Secret tells the story of Jack who after leaving his wife for a year suddenly contacts her out of the blue after being in an accident where he lost his memory.
The story is told through two different perspectives throughout the novel which allows we as readers to try and knit the secret that
These are Caitlin Jack’s wife who because of his memory loss tries to keep the fact that they have been separated for a year from her husband so the marriage can return to normal.
The Second point of view is Lydia, who Jack has been living with during the time he has been away from his wife. Who is trying to get Jack to remember that he has separated from his wife and to come back to her.
I know some readers out there do not like more than one point of view in the novels as there are times when the writer's style can make it either difficult or impossible for readers to follow whose point of view you are reading about at any time.
However, Karen Clarke the writer gets around this problem by only changing perspective at the start of each chapter.
Having the two points of view allows the reader to try and work out what is the secret that Jack is holding on to, particularly in that his personality has completely changed in the year that he has been away.
The Husband’s Secret is at its heart a simple domestic thriller with a simple twist, in the story that really for me makes this type of genre one that can hold a mirror to our society and still make an enjoyable novel.
This makes Husband’s Secret by Karen Clarke a novel that will give the reader something to think about while still being a book that is very easy to recommend,
September 28, 2024
I listened to this on audiobook.
Well this has certainly been interesting and different, certainly not what I was expecting at all. It was a good story, quite cleverly done in places I thought. There was a couple of twisted throughout the story, although I have to be honest and say that I did figure out one of the twists quite earlier on, but not the other one. The second twist completely took me by surprise. Mind you, thinking about it, I’d say there was three twists, as there was one at the very very end that I did not quite see coming.
So overall this has been an intense and entertaining story.
The narrator did a great job, kept the story flowing nicely from one chapter to the next.
Well this has certainly been interesting and different, certainly not what I was expecting at all. It was a good story, quite cleverly done in places I thought. There was a couple of twisted throughout the story, although I have to be honest and say that I did figure out one of the twists quite earlier on, but not the other one. The second twist completely took me by surprise. Mind you, thinking about it, I’d say there was three twists, as there was one at the very very end that I did not quite see coming.
So overall this has been an intense and entertaining story.
The narrator did a great job, kept the story flowing nicely from one chapter to the next.
June 30, 2022
Another exciting and fast paced read by Karen Clarke 🙂
Caitlin and Jack were happily married and in many people the perfect couple. Made for each other. That is until Jack discovered Caitlin’s terrible secret and walked out on her and their married life together. Caitlin has always wanted Jack to come back to her then one year on that’s exactly what happened however not in the way she expected.
Jack has been in a car accident and is suffering from amnesia and cannot remember any of the previous year. At the hospital when he wakes he asks for his wife Caitlin and gives her number to the hospital to call. Over joyed to have Jack back Caitlin decides not to tell him of the past year about how he walked out on her and preys to God that Jack doesn’t regain his memory.
What Caitlin doesn’t realise is that Jacks year away from his married life hadn’t been the greatest either. Stuck in an unhappy relationship with Lydia Jack doesn’t necessarily want to remember however Lydia is determined to reveal the truth to Jack and fight to keep her man. With so many hidden secrets from Jack, Lydia and Caitlin I had no idea where this book was going which for me made it all the more interesting. Packed with twists and turns I just couldn’t keep away.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers and the author for an advance copy of this book in exchange for this review.
Caitlin and Jack were happily married and in many people the perfect couple. Made for each other. That is until Jack discovered Caitlin’s terrible secret and walked out on her and their married life together. Caitlin has always wanted Jack to come back to her then one year on that’s exactly what happened however not in the way she expected.
Jack has been in a car accident and is suffering from amnesia and cannot remember any of the previous year. At the hospital when he wakes he asks for his wife Caitlin and gives her number to the hospital to call. Over joyed to have Jack back Caitlin decides not to tell him of the past year about how he walked out on her and preys to God that Jack doesn’t regain his memory.
What Caitlin doesn’t realise is that Jacks year away from his married life hadn’t been the greatest either. Stuck in an unhappy relationship with Lydia Jack doesn’t necessarily want to remember however Lydia is determined to reveal the truth to Jack and fight to keep her man. With so many hidden secrets from Jack, Lydia and Caitlin I had no idea where this book was going which for me made it all the more interesting. Packed with twists and turns I just couldn’t keep away.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers and the author for an advance copy of this book in exchange for this review.
July 2, 2022
Good story, not every page is nail biting, and I knew who the bad person was fairly early on, but, the ending was a surprise that I enjoyed! I cannot identify with the young girl at all, I am a different person altogether, but I can identify with the husband's family, where whatever you do, it's not enough! I love thrillers, however, this is not going to keep you awake at night, but if you enjoy twisted family dynamics, you will enjoy this strange story.
I recommend! Thank you #Netgalley
carolintallahassee
I recommend! Thank you #Netgalley
carolintallahassee
August 24, 2023
3.75 Stars
I've read Karen Clark's romcom before. I think this is a solid entry in the world of mystery/ thriller by the author.
I've read Karen Clark's romcom before. I think this is a solid entry in the world of mystery/ thriller by the author.
July 27, 2022
Caitlyn is suprised to hear that her estranged husband has had an accident and that she is his next of kin. They have been separated for a year. Nevertheless, she crosses the country to pick him up from the hospital and finds out that he has amnesia after the accident. During the separation, Jack had a relationship with Lydia, building a good bond with her teenage son. Lydia reports him missing and then tracks him down, following him up to the North Yorkshire coast.
The story is told from both Lydia's and Caitlyn's viewpoint and you read about their suspicions about Jack, about arguments and in Lydia's case about the relationship she had with her deseased husband and her son. The plot is well told and seeds of doubt are sown about all of the main characters. The truth, when it comes out is believable though perhaps a little too neatly sown up . A good and suspenseful read.
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
The story is told from both Lydia's and Caitlyn's viewpoint and you read about their suspicions about Jack, about arguments and in Lydia's case about the relationship she had with her deseased husband and her son. The plot is well told and seeds of doubt are sown about all of the main characters. The truth, when it comes out is believable though perhaps a little too neatly sown up . A good and suspenseful read.
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
July 1, 2022
Caitlyn Garvey’s husband, Jack, left her a year ago saying he wanted nothing more to do with her. She had made a mistake and when he learned about it, their marriage was over. So, when she gets a call from a hospital saying he has been injured in a hit and run, she drives through the night to the hospital. She learns that he has cuts, bruises, and a sprained ankle, in addition to a concussion. When he regains consciousness, he is unable to remember the accident and obviously doesn’t remember that they have been separated.
Taking him back to her beach home, she cares for him and is so happy that he is back and appears to think they are still together. Where has he been all this time? Why, he has been living with his new girlfriend, Lydia and her 16-year-old son, Mattie. Now, Lydia is frantic and wants to know where Jack is and she is determined to find him.
We read the point of view from both Caitlyn and Lydia. It takes awhile to finally figure out what is really going on and the ending made me feel better about these characters. I didn’t care for Caitlyn, Lydia, or Jack. None of them seemed to possess real stability in their lives. Two women fighting over a man is not pretty and rather pathetic. The only character I liked was Mattie. Bless his heart. It’s difficult to write a review with giving away spoilers. Unfortunately for me, this book is more sad than a thriller.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Taking him back to her beach home, she cares for him and is so happy that he is back and appears to think they are still together. Where has he been all this time? Why, he has been living with his new girlfriend, Lydia and her 16-year-old son, Mattie. Now, Lydia is frantic and wants to know where Jack is and she is determined to find him.
We read the point of view from both Caitlyn and Lydia. It takes awhile to finally figure out what is really going on and the ending made me feel better about these characters. I didn’t care for Caitlyn, Lydia, or Jack. None of them seemed to possess real stability in their lives. Two women fighting over a man is not pretty and rather pathetic. The only character I liked was Mattie. Bless his heart. It’s difficult to write a review with giving away spoilers. Unfortunately for me, this book is more sad than a thriller.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 3, 2022
This one started off slow for me. I couldn't seem to engage with the characters at first but the story-lijne kept me interested enough to keep reading and I am glad I did.
Caitlin and Jack were estranged for the past year when Caitlin receivers a phone call that Jack has been in an accident and is in the hospital. Caitlin arrives at the hospital to find Jack a bit scratched up with minor cuts and bruises, nothing life-threatening, only Jack has had a concussion and doesn't seem to remember the past year and that they are no longer together. This is all Caitlin has wished for, to have Jack back with her. She decides to pretend the past year never happened and does not tell Jack about their separation. Choosing to live as if none of it ever happened, hoping Jack's memory never returns.Caitlin doesn't realize that Jack has his own secrets and the life he led the past year wasn't all roses for him either. Will their secrets catch up to them both? And where does Jack''s new girlfriend, Lydia come into play through all of this?
Once the story got going it was hard to put down, the need to see the final outcome kept me reading through the night.
This novel had a lot of twists and turns and I did not expect the ending which was a shocker to me. I recommend this read, give it time to get going, do not give up if it doesn't grab you right away because it does get better!
Thank you to HQ, HQ Digital and to Net Galley for the free ARC, I am leaving my honest review in return.
Caitlin and Jack were estranged for the past year when Caitlin receivers a phone call that Jack has been in an accident and is in the hospital. Caitlin arrives at the hospital to find Jack a bit scratched up with minor cuts and bruises, nothing life-threatening, only Jack has had a concussion and doesn't seem to remember the past year and that they are no longer together. This is all Caitlin has wished for, to have Jack back with her. She decides to pretend the past year never happened and does not tell Jack about their separation. Choosing to live as if none of it ever happened, hoping Jack's memory never returns.Caitlin doesn't realize that Jack has his own secrets and the life he led the past year wasn't all roses for him either. Will their secrets catch up to them both? And where does Jack''s new girlfriend, Lydia come into play through all of this?
Once the story got going it was hard to put down, the need to see the final outcome kept me reading through the night.
This novel had a lot of twists and turns and I did not expect the ending which was a shocker to me. I recommend this read, give it time to get going, do not give up if it doesn't grab you right away because it does get better!
Thank you to HQ, HQ Digital and to Net Galley for the free ARC, I am leaving my honest review in return.
July 15, 2022
His secret could destroy them, but her truth is even harder to bear…
One year ago, my husband Jack left. I’ve longed for the moment he would walk through the door and tell me all he ever wanted was to be with me.
Now he’s back, but this isn’t the reunion I had dreamt of…
Jack has been in a hit and run accident. He doesn’t remember we aren’t together, has no clue about his other family, and no recollection of the phone call he made before the crash – I made a terrible mistake that I can’t put right. All I can do is get out.
Jack is different to the man that walked out and I’m certain he’s hiding something too.
But I finally have my husband by my side, and with Jack suffering from amnesia, surely the easiest thing would be to stay quiet…
But can you really trust a man who simply vanished from your life? And should he even trust me?
I was hooked on this from the beginning but it tended to drag on a bit through the middle and then towards the end I was hooked again. If you're after a drawn out physcological thriller then this is the perfect book. Overall I thought it was an okay read. Thank you netgalley and HQ for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. #netgalley #myhusbandssecret #bookreview
One year ago, my husband Jack left. I’ve longed for the moment he would walk through the door and tell me all he ever wanted was to be with me.
Now he’s back, but this isn’t the reunion I had dreamt of…
Jack has been in a hit and run accident. He doesn’t remember we aren’t together, has no clue about his other family, and no recollection of the phone call he made before the crash – I made a terrible mistake that I can’t put right. All I can do is get out.
Jack is different to the man that walked out and I’m certain he’s hiding something too.
But I finally have my husband by my side, and with Jack suffering from amnesia, surely the easiest thing would be to stay quiet…
But can you really trust a man who simply vanished from your life? And should he even trust me?
I was hooked on this from the beginning but it tended to drag on a bit through the middle and then towards the end I was hooked again. If you're after a drawn out physcological thriller then this is the perfect book. Overall I thought it was an okay read. Thank you netgalley and HQ for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. #netgalley #myhusbandssecret #bookreview
June 29, 2022
🌊 Without giving any spoilers away, the book follows Catlin Garvey who receives a call that her husband Jack has been in a hit and run accident. When she reaches hospital, Jack has no recollection of the events leading to the accident and has no memory that it’s been a year since their breakup. Catlin who has never stopped loving Jack sees it as an opportunity and decides to stay quiet. But Jack is different to the man that walked out a year ago…..
🌊 Gripping plot ✔️
Dual POV ✔️
Unreliable narrator❓( I don’t know why but the story gave me these vibes that one of the narrator wasn’t telling the truth)
Unpredictable turns and twists ✔️
Memory loss ✔️
Easy read ✔️
🌊 This was my first book by the author and certainly it won’t be the last. This book was such an engaging and a quick read. I easily finished it in two sittings. However the ending was a bit confused and I still have my doubts about Jack’s memory loss. Do look into the TRIGGER WARNINGS beforehand. ( I usually avoid mentioning the TRIGGERS because in most of the cases it’s like giving away the spoilers)
🌊 Thanks to NetGalley, HQ and the author for the ebook.
🌊 Gripping plot ✔️
Dual POV ✔️
Unreliable narrator❓( I don’t know why but the story gave me these vibes that one of the narrator wasn’t telling the truth)
Unpredictable turns and twists ✔️
Memory loss ✔️
Easy read ✔️
🌊 This was my first book by the author and certainly it won’t be the last. This book was such an engaging and a quick read. I easily finished it in two sittings. However the ending was a bit confused and I still have my doubts about Jack’s memory loss. Do look into the TRIGGER WARNINGS beforehand. ( I usually avoid mentioning the TRIGGERS because in most of the cases it’s like giving away the spoilers)
🌊 Thanks to NetGalley, HQ and the author for the ebook.
May 30, 2022
Caitlin gets a call from the hospital to say that her husband, Jack, has been in a hit and run accident. She collects him, and finds that he has lost his memory, and has no idea that they have been separated for a whole year.
Meanwhile, his new partner, Lydia, is looking for him, and finds that he is living with Caitlin, and she is determined to win her man back.
This story unfolds little by little, and you realise that the world is not as it seems.
Warning, if you are triggered by Gender Based Violence, this book will make you feel uncomfortable.
I enjoyed the book, although I found that it was a bit slow for my liking. I was not wholly gripped from the beginning. The characters, to me, were not believable, they were a bit hollow and I did not feel that there were many 'thrills' in the thriller. Also, it did not seem as though the husband had a secret, the secret belonged to another character.
Thank you to the publishers and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Meanwhile, his new partner, Lydia, is looking for him, and finds that he is living with Caitlin, and she is determined to win her man back.
This story unfolds little by little, and you realise that the world is not as it seems.
Warning, if you are triggered by Gender Based Violence, this book will make you feel uncomfortable.
I enjoyed the book, although I found that it was a bit slow for my liking. I was not wholly gripped from the beginning. The characters, to me, were not believable, they were a bit hollow and I did not feel that there were many 'thrills' in the thriller. Also, it did not seem as though the husband had a secret, the secret belonged to another character.
Thank you to the publishers and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
July 8, 2022
Caitlin gets a call: her husband, Jack, has been in a hit-and-run and is at the hospital. She quickly gets there only to find out that he has amnesia: he remembers nothing from the past year. But a year ago, Jack left her after an argument, and they have been separated ever since. caitlin sees in the amnesia and Jack's need of care the opportunity to start over and mend her marriage. But Jack was with another woman during their separation, Lydia, and she is now looking for him.
This story is told in a well done dual POV (Caitlin and Lydia). It was gripping, I was hooked from the start. It was a fast read with good twists and tension building, but there were no big suprises (it's very hard to surprise me!). No spoilers, but I loved to see the other side of the medal in Jack's situation. If you've read it, you'll know what I'm talking about.
I received an advance review copy for free from NetGalley and HQ, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story is told in a well done dual POV (Caitlin and Lydia). It was gripping, I was hooked from the start. It was a fast read with good twists and tension building, but there were no big suprises (it's very hard to surprise me!). No spoilers, but I loved to see the other side of the medal in Jack's situation. If you've read it, you'll know what I'm talking about.
I received an advance review copy for free from NetGalley and HQ, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 7, 2024
Fun!
This was fun. And that ending. 😬
The plot is so interesting. You get a phone call in the middle of the night saying that your husband that you’ve been separated from for a year has been injured by a hit and run car incident. You’ve missed your husband so terribly much that you race to the hospital thinking this might be your second chance and when you show up he remembers you but has no memory of the year y’all spent apart, that y’all aren’t together. He’s suffered a concussion that has given him temporary amnesia. What do you do? Do you tell him the truth or do you hold on to that hope you had when you raced to the hospital for a little longer and tell him eventually?
Just that part of the story was intriguing enough for me but then add in Crazy Lydia and bam. You got a book on your hands.
This was fun. And that ending. 😬
The plot is so interesting. You get a phone call in the middle of the night saying that your husband that you’ve been separated from for a year has been injured by a hit and run car incident. You’ve missed your husband so terribly much that you race to the hospital thinking this might be your second chance and when you show up he remembers you but has no memory of the year y’all spent apart, that y’all aren’t together. He’s suffered a concussion that has given him temporary amnesia. What do you do? Do you tell him the truth or do you hold on to that hope you had when you raced to the hospital for a little longer and tell him eventually?
Just that part of the story was intriguing enough for me but then add in Crazy Lydia and bam. You got a book on your hands.
June 16, 2022
Caitlin has had a call from the Hospital to collect her husband Jack from there, after being involved in an accident.
Why is Caitlin so shocked and Surprised by this?
Lydia and Mattie are wondering where Jack is?
What is unfolding here?….
Synopsis;
I don’t like to give to much of the story away as spoilers, as in my opinion it spoils a good suspenseful thriller.
I did enjoy reading this book, and it kept my interest.
I liked the different characters, and the setting of the book.
It does touch on gender violence, so a little heads up in case that may upset or trouble you.
My first book that I have read by the author Karen Clarke. I would enjoy reading more of her books now.
Thank you NetGalley and HQ Stories for letting me read this e-book, in exchange for an honest review.
Why is Caitlin so shocked and Surprised by this?
Lydia and Mattie are wondering where Jack is?
What is unfolding here?….
Synopsis;
I don’t like to give to much of the story away as spoilers, as in my opinion it spoils a good suspenseful thriller.
I did enjoy reading this book, and it kept my interest.
I liked the different characters, and the setting of the book.
It does touch on gender violence, so a little heads up in case that may upset or trouble you.
My first book that I have read by the author Karen Clarke. I would enjoy reading more of her books now.
Thank you NetGalley and HQ Stories for letting me read this e-book, in exchange for an honest review.
June 21, 2022
What a great book! Fast paced page turner that I just could not put down. I do love a thriller and My Husband's Secret is definitely that! If you love a rollercoaster read you'll be in for a treat. A story of Jack, the husband who is involved in a hit and run and suffers from amnesia. Told through two women in his life. Does he really want to be back with his wife? Can he really not remember what happened or why their marriage ended? What lengths will both women go to? I don't want to give any spoilers. Just read it!
I hadn't read anything by this author before but I will definitely check out her other stuff now! Thank you to the publishers and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read for an honest review.
I hadn't read anything by this author before but I will definitely check out her other stuff now! Thank you to the publishers and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read for an honest review.
October 27, 2022
This was SO different from what I was expecting from this book after reading the description and after starting reading. I did not see where this was going but LOVED where it led. The ending ended up being so totally different from the rest of the book but in a lovely way that made complete sense. I was so intrigued by all of the main characters and couldn't see how things could possibly end up well for any of them with the web of lies they were tangled in. The concept of this was really great and I think this was executed in a really fresh, unique way. I can't wait to read more from Karen Clarke. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2024
If Behind Closed Doors (B. A. Paris) & Big Little Lies (Liane Moriarty) had a love child, this book would be it. So if you're a fan of those books & authors, please do give this book a read.
I was definitely intrigued and generally enjoyed reading from both Caitlin and Lydia's perspectives.
There were a few twists and turns that were at times a little predictable, but they didn't take away from the reading experience.
This book is more slower paced than what I'd like in a thriller and would have liked to feel more of the 'edge of your seat' feeling but I think maybe the author intended the book to be that way.
I was definitely intrigued and generally enjoyed reading from both Caitlin and Lydia's perspectives.
There were a few twists and turns that were at times a little predictable, but they didn't take away from the reading experience.
This book is more slower paced than what I'd like in a thriller and would have liked to feel more of the 'edge of your seat' feeling but I think maybe the author intended the book to be that way.
June 21, 2022
My Husband's Secret is predominantly about the lives of three people. Told through the perspective of two of the main characters Caitlin and Lydia we unravel the story of Jack and how he has spent his last year before suffering with amnesia.
The author Karen Clarke tells a great story with some interesting little twists along the way and an ending that you may or may not have predicted. Either way it's well worth the read for a bit of light entertainment.
Many thanks to NetGalley and HQ for sharing this book with me in return for an honest review.
The author Karen Clarke tells a great story with some interesting little twists along the way and an ending that you may or may not have predicted. Either way it's well worth the read for a bit of light entertainment.
Many thanks to NetGalley and HQ for sharing this book with me in return for an honest review.
June 28, 2022
A marriage split, an accident and amnesia are the main components of this story told through Caitlin - the ex and Lydia - the current one. As the reader you are never quite sure why each of them wants Jack back as there is some degree of domestic abuse which is apparent. The story also flits between London, Brighton and the north Yorkshire coast which are well described by the author and you feel that you are there with the characters. The outcome is certainly unexpected in more than one way!
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC to review.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC to review.
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