The Marriage Secret by Carey Baldwin is a good psych thriller that lulls the reader into thinking one thing is happening when (really) there is something else going on.
I love when a book can turn the tables on me!
The author makes an interesting choice by letting the reader know pretty much from the start that Zach is not a good guy (that’s not a spoiler, it’s in the blurb). The crux of the story, then, becomes a question: Just how much will Holly put up with before she cracks?
And is her baby enough to make her hang on to a toxic relationship?
Obviously, you’ll have to read it yourself to find out. But the author wisely keeps that question in the forefront of both Holly’s and the reader’s minds. It is easy to say “she should just leave” but it is difficult to remember that there is always more consideration to be made.
Even after the events that are mentioned in the blurb (yes, still a pet peeve of mine), the reader quickly realizes that there is more to the story. And if you think you know where the story is going – you don’t.
Honestly, there are enough throwaway moments to keep a reader guessing as to whether they are actually throwaways or if they figure more importantly in the overall story.
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Additionally, things occur with other characters that make Holly question her choices. This is another wise choice by the author because the evidence starts to become quite obvious.
While the book doesn’t drag at all, the action does pick up in the second half. There are several double and triple-crosses and an ending you probably will not see coming.
If I had to nitpick anything, it’s that ending. Again, not to give anything away, but I wish it had been “live.” You’ll understand when you read it.
There are many secrets in The Marriage Secret, and it takes to the very end for them all to be revealed. Smart plotting by Carey Baldwin makes this a good read.
Instagram: @authorcareybaldwin
About the author
By day Carey is a dedicated pediatrician. By night she’s a USA Today bestselling and award winning author of edgy suspense. In addition to her MD, Carey also holds a PhD in clinical psychology. She loves reading and writing stories that keep you off balance and on the edge of your seat. In her spare time she enjoys hiking and chasing wildflowers.
