This was a real chic mindless read. Having said that I read the whole book in one sitting. I would recommend it as a fun read on a rainy day. I felt that the author was grappling with too many ideas so as to make the story unpredictable.

Book blurb...
Friendship is a million little moments, but can it survive this one? Three friends embark on a luxury cruise to celebrate their ten-year reunion in this heartfelt story of how long-held secrets can catch up with even the best of friends.
Life was about living, experiencing and emotions. The good and the bad. You had to laugh to cry. You had to love to hurt. You had to jump to fall or fly.
Best friends Abbie, Jess and Ricki are setting sail on a cruise ship, rekindling the excitement of a school excursion they took ten years earlier to the historic port town of Albany, the oldest city on the stunning turquoise coastline of Western Australia. But are they truly prepared for what this voyage will reveal?
Ricki, a dedicated nurse, harbours a dream she hasn't chased. Is she actually happy or stuck in a rut?
Jess, a school teacher and single mother to little Ollie, had a tough upbringing but found her way through with the help of her closest male friend, Peter. But Peter has bought an engagement ring and is ready to propose to Ricki . . .
Abbie had it all: a career, a loving boyfriend and a future, but a visit to the doctor bears scary news. Her world is tumbling down and she feels adrift at sea.
SECRETS BETWEEN FRIENDS is a poignant novel of romance, family dynamics and friendship. Through her highly relatable, sympathetic characters, beloved Australian storyteller Fiona Palmer writes about issues, experiences and emotions we have all faced while posing the ultimate question: What is really important in this life?


My thoughts…
I really should check the ages of characters before I choose a book to read.
If you’re younger than me you may very well love this novel. The reviews I’ve read are all terrific and I have really enjoyed Fiona Palmer’s previous novels (The Saddlers Boys was terrific) so maybe I was missing the lovely rural aspect I enjoy about her previous titles. This novel is a move away from the rural fiction - tagged women’s fiction. That said, I was kind of hooked on how things would work out given these four friends had SO many secrets between them (hence the title). I figured I knew what was going to happen, but then bam! The author throws in a few tissue moments. Despite the ‘bam’ moment, I would still call this a light, easy read, but the author has done a great job tying up the many threads and revelations.

This is the story of four long-term friends but as they’ve traversed the stages of life, they’ve become distant. All of that changes when they decide to go on a cruise out of Fremantle over a long weekend. Jess is a single parent to Oliver; Peter lives with Ricki and plans to marry her but she has her eyes on exotic, distant shores and Abbie is alone after her boyfriend leaves her. It becomes quickly apparent that they are all keeping secrets from each other. And, of course, these secrets get revealed and test the boundaries of their friendships. But through a series of unexpected and sad events, they remember why they love each other. This is a heart warming and moving novel about the friendships we make and keep. I loved it, its characters and the dilemmas it raised.

This is Fiona Palmer’s first foray away from her strong background of rural fiction/romance and more into women’s fiction. Jess, Abbie and Ricki have been best friends since school and Jess and Peter have been best friends since childhood. Peter and Ricki are now dating and the three girls thought it’d be fun to celebrate their ten year anniversary graduating from high school by revisiting Albany, a place they went to for a school trip. They decide to take a cruise – a few days of fun and cocktails. Their girls trip gets derailed slightly when Peter decides to come with them and use the trip as a way to further his romance with Ricki.

Firstly, I loved the setting. Fiona Palmer has been setting her books in rural Western Australia for a long time, which I always enjoy but it was quite fun to board a cruise ship with the characters. I’ve never been on a cruise ship before but the idea of a short cruise is appealing. I’ve never visited WA either so perhaps that is why I always enjoy visiting it so much in fiction. It’s a way to experience it.

Each of the women are hiding secrets – some more serious than others. Abbie is hiding a lot about her life and in particular about something that she’s just discovered which is hanging over her head on the cruise. Ricki is feeling a bit restless, perhaps not even realising what the problem was until someone reignited feelings in her about her job and about her life. And Jess, well Jess is carrying two intertwined secrets which definitely threaten two of the friendships she holds dearest.

Okay so as well as things I did like about the story, there were a few things that I did have trouble with. Some of those revolved around the secrets, which seemed strange. I mean, I understood why some things were kept secret, as difficult as those were but the reasoning behind keeping some of the lesser secrets kind of confused me. Also – there’s some people that behave quite horribly and I didn’t really find it okay because “both of them did it”. That’s not good reasoning to me, especially as they were unaware of each other doing it and it felt quite uncomfortable to read. It’s also a bit of a deal breaker for me generally, depending on the circumstances but I didn’t feel as though these ones felt like enough. One element of the story felt almost too good to be true, like a convenient out for the other to occur in a way. And some of the fallout felt quite one sided, like some of the issues on both sides weren’t really discussed or explored, it was really more focused on one particular side and the people involved in that situation.

I don’t want to spoil anything for anyone but I did have some trouble connecting to or liking some characters because some of their actions were so dramatically unpleasant and unnecessary. But I did admire the friendship between them and the fact that it was built to withstand an awful lot and that they were remarkably understanding about each other’s secrets and indiscretions – but I wasn’t sure if that understanding came from a place of love and friendship or because several of them were doing the same thing and couldn’t really be angry. A lot of drama certainly came out during this brief cruise though, that’s for sure!

All in all this was a bit of a mixed bag for me – loved the setting and some elements of the story. The idea of the four of them going on the cruise was a lot of fun and a perfect place for secrets to come out because they can’t really escape, they have to face each other and sort things out. But some of the secrets made it difficult to really care about the characters, who were being a bit selfish and unfair to those that they cared about. And I wasn’t really expecting a part of the ending, which had some bittersweet elements to it. If you’re looking for a full and total HEA this might not be the sort of story that you’re after.

7/10

Fiona Palmer has branched out of her rural romances and has done an amazing job with this book! The tale of three friends is very endearing and full of twists and turns! 

Fiona Palmer is known for her romance novels by far more than anything else. When I saw that she had this book coming out I was super excited because she is such a master at romance, but when it came to this book it was completely different than I was hoping it would be.

There are several elements that are very pronounced and with that it kid of overshadows the other ones that should show through a little more. But with that said there are many things about the book that I really enjoyed! The promise of secrets, betrayal of friends trust and of course how each character deals with what has been revealed was amazingly done.

This is one great book you should get your hands on whether or not you have read anything by Fiona!

Ten years ago, BFFs Ricki, Abbie, and Jess went on a class trip, and they had so much fun that they want to recreate the festivities. They also sense that life's vagaries are causing some distance between them. Nothing awful or insurmountable, but when you're a nurse (Ricki), a single mother and school teacher (Jess), and a real estate agent (Abbie), your lives become hectic and chaotic. It's difficult to stay close to the people who know you best, the people who keep you grounded and sane and never judge you.

What happens, though, when you keep secrets from them? For Ricki, Abbie, and Jess are each keeping secrets from each other. Perhaps this cruise they're going on will help them be honest with each other. You know, even if it takes them a while to figure it out, that if they would share their struggles, they would find relief and maybe even solutions.

Fiona Palmer does a fantastic job of capturing the way friends talk to each other. She shows their joy and freedom, even as she shows their reluctance and reservations. You understand why they don't want to reveal their truths to each other, yet you want to reach into the book and shout at them, hoping to get them to see that they need each other, particularly Abbie, who faces something she cannot - she should not - face on her own.

You might find yourself having a favorite amongst the girls. My allegiances vacillated between Jess and Abbie. I liked Rickie, but her conflict was the one that interested me the least. I understood why she yearned for more, but I could also see why making peace with what she had would benefit her more. Abbie's storyline broke my heart. And then there's Jess, a character I liked a lot, but one I really, REALLY wanted to sit down and have a chat with in hopes that I could help her see how some of the things she thinks are a good idea are, in fact, not.

When I finished this book, I immediately texted my close friends, asking when we can get together. If nothing else, Secrets Between Friends will make you realize that you don't have forever, so take advantage of these opportunities when they arise.

I was keen to sample Fiona Palmer’s first time dalliance out of her ‘rural romance’ genre. Here is a tale of best friends, Jess, Abbie and Ricki (and Ricki's boyfriend, Peter) who decide to take a three-day cruise down the coast of Western Australia. As the title of the book indicates, there most definitely are some very serious ‘secrets between friends’ that all come to a head during this short cruise. Will their long term friendship be able to withstand the revelations and confrontations that, in the confines of ship life, there will be no escape from?

Once again I reveled in the setting - Australia - and this time, sailing on a familiar cruise line. As the girls and Peter make the most of life onboard the ship and the trip to Albany and back, there was much to enjoy. Being a ‘cruiser’ myself, I found the descriptions realistic and accurate. For those of you in any way interested in cruising, this gives a lovely little insight into life onboard.

‘Gee, they really pack a lot of events into a day aboard the ship don’t they?’

‘... that was life on the ship. You could partake in all the activities, some or none.’

The concept of secrets amongst friends is not a new one, however, I just found their tiffs and selfishness difficult to swallow at times. Sadly, I didn’t really enjoy the characters that much because of it.

‘Problems going on with my friends. Secrets and indiscretions, surprises.’ She shrugged.
‘We came here to celebrate, but today all we’ve done is yell at each other.’

Each of the girls have personal issues to contend with from the desire to follow a dream, to single motherhood, to health concerns. So there is much to relate to and it was interesting to see how events played out. I appreciated the realism and how confrontational certain aspects were presented and handled. I am sure that many of Fiona Palmer's fans will enjoy taking a trip alongside the three friends and appreciate that life is not always smooth with bonds often being stretched to breaking point.

‘Life can seem great one minute and then a shit-hole mess the next. What do we do, Abbie?’
‘We do the only thing we can do. Live each day as it comes, try to be good people while pursuing happiness.’
It sounded easy. But it wasn’t.


This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release

This is such a beautiful, moving, touching story about three friends who met at school and just bonded together forever Jess, Ricki and Abbie there is also Peter who started out as Jess’s best friend but became best friends to them all and then partner to Ricki. Jess is a single mum to Ollie and a teacher now living in the country, Ricki is a nurse and lives with Peter and Abbie is a career girl in real estate. They plan a reunion on a three day cruise to Albany Western Australia to party, reminisce and just have fun, Peter has plans as well and joins them for this journey, little do they all know that secrets will be uncovered and their lives will change forever.

Jess will go to any lengths to help her friends she loves them all but has kept a secret for some time now that will impact on them all, although the girls know that she has loved Peter forever he is as close to family as possible, they were neighbours growing up and with the home life Jess had Peter and his family were her life savers, but maybe now it is time to cut ties with Peter and stay in the country town she teaches with her gorgeous son Ollie.

Abbie has just had her life turned upside down by her partner and the job that she loves is not what it used to be and with so much going on this cruise is going to be a blast and when she gets back then it will be time to think about the future and she is determined to keep her secret and be strong as always.

Ricki has been happy with her life she loves Peter but her wish to travel and nurse in under privileged countries is getting stronger especially after having met a new nurse at work, is it time to make a change in her life?

The time for the trip arrives and with each one of them having things on their mind this trip turns into a roller-coaster of secrets that have been kept from each other which is so out of fashion for them as they are just so close but these secrets are doozies that will leave each of them shocked and hurt in some ways but as true friends they need to pull together and be there for each other.

I really loved this book the bond these friends share is just beautiful the love and the strength they show through the hurts will have you turning the pages but do make sure you have the tissues handy because there will be tears but smiles as well, thank you MS Palmer for a story that is going to stay with me for a long time to come and yay for cruising I have been on a few and the memories of being on the ship are good.

Fiona Palmer has made the transition from rural romance to life lit with her latest book, Secrets Between Friends. And I've gotta say, she has nailed it!

Jess, Peter, Ricki and Abbie have been friends for ever. As a celebration of shots, the four head off on a cruise along the West Australian coast. All four board the ship with a secret (or secrets!) that could irreparably damage the group.

The individuality of the characters, and the focus on friendships rather than romance, is what really makes this book worthwhile. I love stories of women supporting each other and building each other up, rather than tearing each other down. Secrets Between Friends does that so perfectly.

**I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**

3.5 Stars

This was my first book by this author. I won't say I was disappointed as the premise of the book is what hooked me and it was interesting throughout. We all have secrets. But I always like to see how they play out among a close knit group of friends and let me tell you, these friends had some doozies. Life changing secrets. Add in that they are stuck on a cruise with each other when they all come out, well you can only imagine how that works out. At least at first. I mean these are secrets that could ruin even the strongest of relationships.

At times, the story seemed to stall for me and sometimes I had a hard time with the transitions between the characters. It was a bit hard to follow and keep up with who's thoughts we were reading. I am not sure if this was a formatting issue or just the writing style for me. I will be purchasing the book when it comes out and may adjust my review then. All in all though it was a decent book even if a bit slow for me at times. I found myself laughing and crying with the characters so I figure if the author can get my emotions going then she has a good one on her hands.

The story was good and did contain some noteable characters. However, the narrative felt like it was in a fast-forward momentum towards the finale.

Three girlfriends plan a weekend cruise from Perth to Albany. Each bring a secret to this weekend. This book made me laugh, cry and just feel. I don't want to spoil the story by revealing their secrets but true friendship can support even the worst secrets. I would highly recommend reading this book in one sitting so set aside a day to just immerse yourself.

This was the first book that I have read by Fiona Palmer, and I would certainly pick up another by her in the future. I really enjoyed the West Australian setting and the cruise ship on which Ricki, Jess, Abbie and Peter all joined up for reunion. Jess is a most engaging young woman, bringing up her young son by herself, although supported by her three friends. Ricki has decided that staying with Peter may not be what she wants, instead she would like to travel to developing areas helping with her nursing skills and Abbie seems to have everything. There is more depth here than one usually finds in a romance and the story leaves you wondering what you would do to find your own happily ever after under very difficult circumstances.

This novel takes you on an emotional journey that had me captivated! Heart warming and a tear jerker. Loved the setting in Western Australia in Fremantle then on a cruise down to Albany and back. So the physical journey was as captivating as the storyline with a group of friends who you get to know and become totally involved in their world. Loved Jess, Ricki, Abbie and Peter as well as Alex later on.
An easy book to read and one that I would recommend if you don't mind your heart strings being pulled!
Thank you to Netgalley and publisher Hachette Australia for the opportunity to read and review this wonderful novel.