An emotional rollercoaster ride. If you’re looking for a light read, this is not the book for you. Be prepared to touch upon really tough life situations and the aftermath of loss and trauma.

Quite an emotional but well written read - essentially a dyfunctional family following Colm dying from a brain tumour, Through Colm and his wifes point of view- the reader discovers what he wanted to say whilst alive by videos he has made.
It is a bit of a rollercoaster of one minute the reader is reaching for their tissues, then you laugh so be prepared reader.

Recommeded read

I had not read a book by this author before so I picked this book based completely on the description. The story was good and characters very likeable, some moments quite emotional but some of the events in the story were too rushed. It didn’t feel realistic.
I completely did not like the epilogue from that point of view. Total fantasy, in my opinion, and changed the whole feeling of the story up to that point. I really wish the author had chosen a different way to tie up the loose ends.

I am a fan of this authors writing. This had a dual POV. The characters are deeply flawed. I did find the story lacked depth.

Shari Low's "The Story of Our Secrets" is a deeply moving exploration of love, forgiveness, and the impact of secrets on the lives of those left behind. This poignant novel navigates the complexities of relationships and redemption in the aftermath of Colm O'Flynn's untimely death, leaving a profound impact on those who loved him.

The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of key characters in Colm's life, each grappling with their own unique challenges. Shauna, Colm's second wife, is burdened by a secret that could alter the perception of their seemingly idyllic marriage. Jess, the first Mrs. O'Flynn, finds herself torn between her past and a new romantic interest, haunted by the one-night stand shared with Colm. Colm's best friend, Dan, faces the prospect of a second chance at happiness, but at the cost of betraying a steadfast ally.

Shari Low skillfully delves into the emotional intricacies of these characters, crafting well-rounded individuals whose struggles and vulnerabilities elicit empathy from the reader. The author deftly explores themes of forgiveness and redemption, allowing the characters to confront their pasts and seek a path toward healing.

The underlying mystery of Colm's messages left behind introduces an element of suspense, creating a compelling thread that weaves through the narrative. The anticipation of discovering Colm's last wishes adds depth to the storytelling, keeping the reader engaged and invested in the characters' journeys.

"The Story of Our Secrets" beautifully captures the essence of human relationships, highlighting the fragility of life and the importance of forgiveness. Shari Low's writing is both evocative and heartfelt, drawing readers into the lives of these characters and allowing them to experience the emotional highs and lows.

In conclusion, "The Story of Our Secrets" is a four-star read for its emotional depth, well-crafted characters, and the skillful exploration of themes that resonate with the complexities of human connections. Shari Low delivers a touching and thought-provoking story that will stay with readers long after they've turned the last page. If you appreciate novels that seamlessly blend love, loss, and redemption, this book is a compelling choice.

I must firstly apologise for the amount of time it has taken me to provide a review of this book, my health was rather bad for quite some time, something that had me in hospital on numerous occasions and simply didnt leave me with the time I once had to do what I love most.

Unfortunately that does mean I have missed the archive date for many of these books, so It would feel unjust throwing any review together without being able to pay attention to each novel properly.

However, I am now back to reading as before and look forward to sharing my honest reviews as always going forward. I thank you f0r the patience and understanding throughout x

It’s been five years since Shauna lost her husband and love of her life to cancer. Her, her daughter Beth and their close friends (Jess, Dan and Lulu) are all still muddling along living half lives.

Meanwhile, five years ago Colm is making videos from his hospice bed with a message for each member of his close knit family and friends.

I adore all the books I have read by Shari Low and this is up there as one of my favourites. This was an emotional rollercoaster - I was laughing one minute and sobbing my heart out the next.

Shari Low has a fantastic talent whereby all her characters come to light so-much-so you think that you and them are besties. I highly recommend this book and if you have only just discovered Shari Low make sure to read all of her books … you are in for a real treat.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance read copy of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

I loved the story and plot line. Its well written and felt myself connecting with the characters. Definitely recommend

A bittersweet tenderly funny emotional rollercoaster of a book with a touch of sarcsam - what's not to love.

Terminally ill Colm makes a series of video messages before his death for his loved ones - Shauna, Lulu Dan and Jess (hello ps I love you, which is referenced in the book and clearly an inspiration for this!)

All complicated, relatable with beautiful flashbacks entertwinned with the present to round of a holistic journey of love friendship and forgiveness.

Thank you to netgalley for hte ARC in exchange for a review - I really loved the poignancy of the tale and put it right up there with PS I love you, me before you and similar.

Probably my favorite of all so far of Shari Low's books. She is one of my favorite authors and never disappoints, Highly recommend.

I really really enjoyed this book! It looked like this book was going to be sad and depressing in my opinion. But it was actually the opposite emotions. It was definitely one of those books that I would not hesitate to recommend to anyone looking for a really good book!

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by NetGalley

Beautiful story, heart breaking yet heart warming all at the same time. Amazing characters, absolutely loved this.

This is a story of grieving and forgiving. Colm died too soon and his friends and family are having a hard time accepting his death. Dan, Jess and Shauna get together to talk and help each other. When Shauna finds videos that Colm made before he died it opens all the old wounds. Can divine intervention help them find Colm’s last wishes before it’s too late to love again? Keep a box of tissues handy. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Another good book
Make sure you have the tissues handy
A brilliantly written book
Very emotional
Love this ladies books can’t wait for the next one
Thanks NetGalley

It is no secret I'm a massive Shari Low fan, The Story of Our Secrets took me to precipice of my emotions and was another stellar release!

This was a beautiful read. Such sadness but so much warmth and love between these characters. Each contributed their own worth and their love for each other.

Thank you for two hours of sobbing into my tissues - This one will stay with me!!

Shari Low has done it again. This is another beautifully told story with expertly crafted characters that leap right off the page. The dynamic between the friends and family members is perfect.

At it's heart, the focus is not solely on loss but on friendship, love and learning to live again. It's so well written and as with all of Shari's books, you want to read it in big chunks (or preferably all in one go if you can manage it).

This story has twists, turns and despite it being a heart-wrenching and tragic tale, it is filled with so much humour and love. There are moments that will make you laugh out loud, cringe and cry - definitely cry.

Shari Low has a way of writing that just gets you. She manages to take such raw and painful emotions like grief and heartbreak and turn them into heart warming, life affirming stories.

Everyone needs to read at least one of her books in their lifetime because she sprinkles so much magic and love into them. They always leave a lasting impression long after you've turned the last page.

I haven't read Shari Low before, but after reading this book, I know I'll be reading more from her.

This book made me laugh, made me cry, and made me think about it long after I finished reading it. I thought the realtionships seemed so real and raw and oftentimes dysfunctional; just like relationships often times are. This book took those and wound them into a beautiful story of survival and reflection.

Shauna is still grieving the loss of her husband, however, her friends think it’s about time for her to find someone new. Although just before Colm died she did something terrible and was unable to ask for his forgiveness, so she believes she doesn’t deserve a second chance.

Jess was married to Colm years prior to Shauna, her and Shauna have become best friends since the death of Colm but will Jess’s secret unravel their friendship?

Dan was Colm’s best friend he’s recently divorced, yet taking the next steps on his journey to happiness might be betraying the memory of his best friend.

Unbeknownst to the three friends Colm left video messages for them all. Now, 11 years later, they are found but the drama has already begun. Can these video messages repair the damage that has been caused?

I laughed out loud and cried multiple times while reading this fantastic novel.

Wow. I did not expect to cry, laugh, and feel so many emotions all at the same time. What a special book, I typically start from emotionally heavy topics (especially with all that is going on in the world) but this book felt therapeutic and warming at the same time. I will definitely be picking up more from this author, their ability to weave a story with such weight full conversations but also drop in moments of laughter and levity is such a gift.

Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced reader Copy in exchange for my honest review.

This was such a tear-jerker of a story, following a dysfunctional family in the wake of a tragic death. However, despite it being rather emotional and sad, I think it was beautifully written, adding to my enjoyment of a coming-of-age story.

Opening with Colm, readers quickly learn that this spirited, Irish man is in a hospice with terminal cancer. Using his final weeks as a means of saying goodbye, Colm records a series of videos to his closest friends and family. This is the time for him to say goodbye, to reminisce, offer hopes for the future and even, as we come to discover, apologise for past actions.

These scenes with Colm appear throughout the novel, poignantly showing Colm’s deteriorating health. I was really keen to see how Low would use these clips as Colm’s family falls apart from the burden of guilt, grief, and strained friendships. Shauna, Colm’s wife, heavily leans on others around her and I loved the intricacies of the friendship-family group that is depicted. The closeness that all the characters share is especially endearing and I think this added to the emotions running throughout the narrative.

Despite trying to move forwards, it is never easy. Low sensitively explores the theme of grieving and I think it is done in such a way that readers will be able to relate to the feelings experienced throughout the novel. Attempting to stay positive, using time as a healer… these things and more have all been said but are never enough when coping with the loss of a loved one. Therefore, whilst watching Shauna and her friends fall apart, I think Colm’s narrative adds a bit of lightness to the story.

I particularly liked the banter that existed between the characters. This provided some much needed comic relief and meant this book was a cross between a tissue-fest and necessary laughter. However, when Shauna’s support circle disintegrates, I did wonder how they would be able to repair their relationship. It turns out that the magic of Colm was what was required. Furthermore, the way that Low concluded the story was especially poignant, perhaps the most touching of all, and I enjoyed how the novel had come full circle.

Undoubtedly, this is a saddening, emotional story, but so well written. Read this book with the understanding that it is not a happy-go-lucky story, but with a fine balance between grief and comedy. I have enjoyed many of Low‘s novels in the past and think this is one of her strongest…. and saddest at the same time.

With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.