I’ve just finished this roller coaster ride of emotions and it exceeded all my expectations. I completed this delightful story within two days as I was so enthralled by the characters and the journey that they were on that I couldn’t wait to find out where the story took them.
It’s a very diverse storyline that deals with the fears of growing up and finding out and accepting who we are. Even though for some of us it may take longer than others, It gives us the hope that it is never too late to change and bring happiness into our lives, I don’t want to say too much as I never like to give away storylines with my reviews but this really tugs on the heart strings but with moments of happy euphoria.
As a therapist I can understand that this book gives a very important and positive message. There are actually certain clients I would recommend it to.
I have only ever given one other book a five star review but this is now my second. I also think it would make a fantastic film adaptation. We can all do with a bit of Albert Entwistle in our lives and I certainly know who I will be dressing up as for the next world book day (orders postman outfit). Well done Matt Cain!

The Secret Life of Albert Entwhistle is an endearing book with a main character that is so special you will grow to love as he seeps himself into your heart.
An awkward 64 years old shy man with just his cat for company after looking after his mother for many years until her death. He hates mixing and speaking to people, always feeling awkward and embarrassed and does his best to avoid interacting with his colleagues at the post office where he has worked since leaving school and avoiding as much as possible the residents he sees on his post round.
When he receives a letter from his employer informing him that he will have to retire in 3 months once he is 65 and will not be allowed to continue even if he wishes to, Albert suddenly take a look at his life and realises how lonely he is and he will have nothing in his life once retired. He decides he needs to change his life, taking himself completely out of his comfort zone and astonishing his colleagues he reveals something from his past that he has lived with for 50 years.
We take Alberts journey with him as what emerges is a beautiful person who is kindness personified, with a host of characters that do much to enhance this special story. This is such an uplifting book although at times desperately sad....I shed tears (which is rare for a book to cause) and laughed joyfully, by the end I was cheering Albert on clapping my hands at the finale.
I haven’t written all the details as it’s just best to let this book wrap its self around you like a warm blanket. So uplifting, it will stay with me a long time , and Albert......you rock!
My grateful thanks to net galley and publisher Headline for an ARC of this book to review honestly.

Thank you to Matt, Netgalley and Rosie at Headline for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

I loved The Madonna of Bolton, so was keen to read Matt's next book, and wasn't disappointed. Discovering the life of Albert Entwistle as the plot of the book unfolds was a real joy, and by the end I felt inspired to 'be more Albert'.

The book opens with an insight into the life of man, who through circumstances and events that have taken place, has found himself shutting others out, and begrudgingly acknowledging his loneliness. Something I could really relate to at the moment, given I live alone and was reading this as lockdown three was underway. Albert's story is beautifully told, with the author giving hints and clues as to what happened earlier in Albert's life throughout the first section of the book, but leaving you wanting to keep reading to find out the truth.

As Albert acknowledges his situation and begins trying to do something to improve his lot, he began to inspire me in the way he pushes himself out of his comfort zone and being encouraged by the way those around him respond. Again, probably a symptom of the times in which I read the book and not being hugely happy with my own lot right now, but I'll happily admit I cried through most of the book - but in a good way, as the writing and story helped me understand how I'm feeling, and be inspired to do something about it. The friendships described in the book, and the core themes of being true to oneself and acceptance made it a joy to read, and one where I felt incredibly close to the main characters, longing for events to unfold favourably for them.

The acceptance theme is one that ran through Matt's Madonna of Bolton novel too, and as a gay man is one I definitely need help with, which both books certainly did. The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle in particular highlights that our own prejudices often override the true views of others - where once our true selves are revealed, others are far more accepting than we are of ourselves.

The Secret Life of... is a really uplifting and inspiring book that was a pleasure to read and one I'd be happy to recommend to anyone (gay, straight or otherwise) who needs reminding that it's never too late to have hope.

Matt Cain’s latest novel is both a heart-warming and (at times) heart-breaking story about how loneliness and lost love can lead to self-discovery and transformation. Albert Entwistle’s personal journey is both touching and captivating and illuminates the struggles that older members of the LGBTQ community experienced in the past. In addition, the book includes a number of well-developed and relatable supporting characters that lend themselves to Albert’s story. The relationships between Albert and those in his life are equally as captivating the main plot. Overall, this book was a pleasure to read and I personally hope that Cain decides to write a follow-up.

I loved this book and the story so much and recommend everyone to read this book
With thanks to Netgalley & publisher for the arc of this book in exchange for this review