Lynn Austin brilliantly weaves together the story of three women- love, loss, revenge, forgiveness and healing. Each woman had choices to make that were shaped by each other’s pasts. When power and influence were the standards in high society, they learned that leaving a legacy of love was the greatest gift. I have read many of Lynn Austin’s books and this book has been my favorite by far!

All my Secrets is Lynn Austin at her best. I love the 3 generations of secrets, sorrows, and lost opportunities. The best character is the elderly grandmother, Junietta, and her desire to influence her granddaughter as she faces a crucial time in her life. Junietta begins disclosing secrets, kept hidden for nearly 50 years, because she fears her granddaughter Adelaide will be influenced by her mother to choose poorly. And Sylvia has her own well-kept secrets that build this story into an exciting mystery. Adelaide has decisions to face and her happiness hangs on the choices she is faced with.
Two of my favorite quotes from the book:
“What Mr. Muttenchops told us today was the best possible news for you. You’re free now! You can go anywhere, and be anything you want to be. This is our chance to look closely at our lives and decide what’s important and what isn’t. We can dream new dreams, look for new goals, pursue new adventures. You no longer have to live a life of mindless indulgences, conforming to a dull, unimaginative society.”
…”memories don’t live in the house. They’re in your heart. You’ll carry them with you, no matter where you live.”
Choices, hopes and plans surround the three generations. Painful as it is to reveal secrets, the unveiling of hidden actions help these women face the opportunities before them.
This gem of a historical look at complicated relationships held just enough romance to be perfect for me. I loved that the grandmother was the star of the story.
Thanks to NetGalley for an advance copy. It will be available February 6th. Another five star winner from the talented Lynn Austin. Thank you Lynn!
#Net Galley, #LynnAustin, #Tyndale/fiction

Rich with details of Gilded Age opulence, author, Lynn Austin, crafts a tale that spans three generations and features three formidable women. They rise to prominence in their lofty social circumstances amidst the overwhelming male dominated society and yet are able to maintain a spirit of faith and family; some more than others.

Austin is able to tell this multi arc story without giving readers literary whiplash. Each chapter bears the name of the story teller, for easy clarification. Most of the time, I didn’t need it as these stories took place as conversations between grandmother, mother and daughter.

While the story is propelled by dialogue, I was enchanted by Austin’s descriptive prose. It’s hard to decide which was more enjoyable - the art & architecture or the clothing. Actually, there are lovely passages creating word paintings that could rival the Hudson River School artists. Austin is gifted.

ALL MY SECRETS covers both dark and foreboding secrets and those kind where the owner is trying to protect someone or something or seeking anonymity and reserve. Some secrets touch all three women and generations plus many others along the way; others are intensely personal. However the secrets unfold, they’re seamless woven together in this compelling novel 📚

This is a beautifully written story about family, the secrets they hide and the legacy they leave. Ms. Austin pens some absolutely memorable characters in this multi-generational story of three women. Grieving the loss of A.B. Stanhope, his mother, wife and daughter find that their life will change drastically. The author probes beyond the glittering facade of the Gilded Age as she reveals its shallow and somewhat shaky foundation of its elite.

Ms. Austin has crafted memorable characters, and slowly reveals the strengths and vulnerabilities of each as they are challenged to forge a new path. My favorite character is Junietta. Her strong faith shines through her actions. She is not afraid to challenge Sylvia and Addy to break out of their 'gilded age'. Junietta slowly reveals the secrets of her past, which encourages the other women to gradually look at the world differently. I loved the faith thread of redemption that is woven seamlessly throughout her story.

As I read the last page, I realized this was not just an entertaining story. It is powerful, one that will challenge readers to reflect on their own life choices and legacy.

Adelaide, Sylvia and Junietta are forced to make difficult decisions about their futures when their lives are upended by a death in the family. Junieeta and Sylvia slowly reveal secrets about their pasts.

Lynn Austin flawlessly blends history, family dynamics, and the Christian faith in All My Secrets, elevating it to the pinnacle of storytelling. This is a heartfelt endorsement for readers seeking an extraordinary and spiritually enriching read!

The narrative unfolds as a rich tapestry, transcending the ordinary and immersing readers in the captivating world of Gilded Age splendor across generations. Harmonious chords resonate on every page, skillfully revealing the transformative journey of the Stanhope family through the eyes of the three main characters. It's a superb story for those desiring a multigenerational experience intertwined with profound truths of the Christian faith.

All My Secrets methodically illustrates resilience across three generations of Stanhope women as the sudden departure of Arthur Stanhope III propels Junietta, Sylvia, and Adelaide into a tumultuous journey, unraveling hidden family secrets.

At its core, the novel reaches deep into the transformative alchemy of God's love, forgiveness, and sovereignty. Lynn Austin's talented writing illuminates the complexities of each character, emphasizing the extraordinary impact of Christian faith on individuals and families.

The storyline undergoes a remarkable shift, as characters navigate the realms of everyday struggles, faith, redemption, and God's intricate plan. Junietta's resolute determination becomes a testament to Christian virtues and obedience, while Sylvia's inner turmoil transforms into a battleground where she learns to trust in God's control and surrender to His guidance.

The intergenerational dialogue becomes a tender exploration of grace, forgiveness, and the blessings of obedience, adding intense depth for a spiritually enriching experience.

The Gospel is presented clearly multiple times! Here is one of a multitude of quotes that this reader loves: “Simply follow Jesus. He’s always going in the right direction. And He asks only two things of us. First, that we love God with all our heart. Putting Him first in everything we do, letting Him direct our life, worshipping Him alone instead of money or success or fame. And second, that we love our neighbor as we love ourself. Not turning away from someone in need. Forgiving people who have hurt you. Doing the loving thing, even at a cost to ourselves.”

Lynn Austin's portrayal of Gilded Age New York is impeccable, serving as a fascinating stage for characters to live out genuine faith. All My Secrets completely captivates with an insightful message of authentic faith, resilience, and strength found in God's boundless love and grace. The characters' spiritual growth beautifully demonstrates the transformative power of God’s grace and the beauty of His plan. Storytelling doesn’t get any better than this!

I received an eARC for All My Secrets from Tyndale House Publishers through NetGalley and a paperback edition via Tyndale House. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on this story’s amazingly excellent content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

In my opinion, this is Lynn Austin's BEST book yet! The era, the story; stunning scene descriptions and a story so beautifully told. The character development is phenomenal! An intricately woven tale of three generations of Stanhope women, set in New York during the "Gilded Era". Two great loves, 2 great loves lost. So many "lessons". Junietta, Sylvia, and Adelaide work through grief (so realistically written!) and change (never easy!) to find their future while honoring their past. I have 3 favorite quotes from this book, two of them have a very personal meaning to me: "The memories don't live in the house, they're in your heart.", "Death brings the end of so many dreams that we have for ourselves and our loved ones.", and "Love is a greater legacy to leave than wealth." .I was deeply touched by this story, the adversity, the injustice, the revelations, the growth, the enlightenment, the triumph. Lynn Austin, Thank you for this beautiful labor of love, the wonderful work of art!
Oh what a tangled web we weave,
though not in a purposeful attempt to deceive,
The secrets kept by grandmother and mother,
to protect their daughters, to protect others.

Lynn Austin books never disappoint and when I had a chance to request an early copy of her 2024 release, I jumped at it. All My Secrets is set in New York in the gilded age in the last years of the 1800’s though the story is told of three generations of women so you also get portions in the civil war years and in between as flashbacks. I loved the rich detail of life of the wealthy in that era and the expectations for women in society. I enjoyed the three characters, especially the opinionated grandmother who runs the family charitable foundation. There are strong elements of redemption and forgiveness as well as consequences for past actions. It really shouldn’t matter but I wish the cover showed three women and not just two! I received a gifted copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers through NetGalley; I am leaving this review voluntarily as my honest opinion. This book will release on February 6, 2024.

Without giving away #AllMySecrets,Lynn Austin's protagonists leave readers paging through the novel to discover their decisions. The family saga chronicles three women's stories, each at the crossroads of their lives. The matriarch is facing her later years, Adelaide's mother is struggle to save their home after her husband's death and Addie is facing marrying a wealthy suitor to save her family estate.

The adage don't don't judge by a book by its cover is thematic in this novel. While wealthy women seemingly in charge of their own circumstances, they are pawns due to society's expectations. Instead of letting their world force their hands, they bravely forge their own paths to reach their dreams.

Thank you to #NetGalley and the publisher for the early edition of All My Secrets in exchange for an honest review. Austin's powerful prose will leave readers wishing there was another chapter at the end of the story, unwilling to leave the protagonists behind.

All My Secrets by Lynn Austin was a great read! After binging a certain series set in the Gilded Age, this was the perfect follow-up read to keep myself immersed in the time frame. Lynn Austin paints a beautiful picture of three generations of women from the Stanhope family. Each facing life changing situations and two looking back at the secrets of their past and how those choices are still affecting their current lives. This is a lovely story of redemption and hope, faith and trust, knowing that even in our brokenness and failures God is faithful, trust-worthy and in control.

Another excellent read from Lynn Austin! All I can say is Wow, what a wonderful, thought provoking book. Ms. Austin crafts characters that just pull you completely into the story. Thank you NetGalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review. 5 Stars!!!

Readers who enjoy the Gilded Age will love this book. Told in three person viewpoint, the story explores the lives of a mother, her daughter-in-law and granddaughter. Torn between real love and the rules is society, secrets emerge as hidden secrets of the past help Addy decide her own future. Very enjoyable book! I loved how the author chose to tie the many characters together. Highly recommended!

A return to my first love of historical fiction and this one did not disappoint! I was excited to read my first Lynn Austin book. Such beautiful writing!

It’s 1898 in NYC and 19-year-old Adelaide has just lost her father, A.B. Stanhope. He was a giant in NYC’s business world. Adelaide was his third daughter and he had always hoped for a son to inherit his wealth. The Stanhopes lived a life of high society, but with A.B.’s unexpected passing, their world is turned upside down during the reading of his will. The entire inheritance is to go to her great uncle and his son.

Adelaide lives with her mother, Sylvia, and her sophisticated, yet spitfire of a grandmother, Junietta Stanhope – always tapping and thumping her cane on the floor to get her point across. Kind and loving, but not at all hesitant to speak her mind. One of my favorite fictional characters I’ve ever read! Panic immediately sets in at the reality of losing their high society life they had all become accustomed to. Sylvia immediately begins encouraging her daughter to start courting wealthy men so that she can marry into a life of financial stability. Grandma Junietta has VERY different plans for her granddaughter. All Junietta desires is for her granddaughter to feel free to choose her own path in life. To marry for LOVE and not just money alone.

Both Junietta and Sylvia have held onto deep secrets from their past. Stories of forbidden love, devastating loss and debilitating amounts of grief and guilt unfold as you read this story. An incredible book about healing and realizing that it’s never too late to re-route the direction of your future. I highly recommend this book for lovers of historical fiction. Many references to Biblical principals and our faith and hope in God.

*Mentions of suicide.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

All My Secrets was a wonderful story. It followed 3 women, a daughter, mother & grandmother. With specific flashbacks to the mother & grandmother's past. It was extremely well written & flowed well. I didn't want to put it down.
Thanks netgalley for a complimentary copy. All thoughts & opinions are my own!

This book was reminiscent of my favorite Lynn Austin work (and one of my all-time favorite books) "Eve's Daughters." It follows three generations of women who grapple with their past secrets and future uncertainty. Austin is a master at setting the stage, and I loved the Gilded Age backdrop. It wasn't quite as emotionally evocative as some of her previous works, but I still enjoyed it and read it in two days.

3.5 ⭐️ All My Secrets is a tri-POV novel that follows three generations of Stanhope women during the Gilded Age. Junietta is the matriarch who is nearing the end of her life and encouraging her daughter-in-law and granddaughter to pursue God’s purposes for their lives rather than societal expectations. Sylvia is Junietta’s daughter-in-law and a recent widow trying to figure out how to salvage her wealth after her husband’s death. Adelaide is Sylvia’s daughter who is torn between her mother’s desire that she find a wealthy husband who can ensure the family’s high standing and her grandmother’s desire that she be free to fall in love and pursue her own dreams and desires.

Most of the book is set in the late 1890s, with some flashbacks to Junietta’s and Sylvia’s pasts. I actually think I enjoyed the flashbacks more because there seemed to be more intrigue in those parts. Sylvia’s flashbacks were the only parts of her POV that I found to be worthwhile; otherwise, I think her POV could have easily been eliminated. I also think that I would have enjoyed a first person narration throughout the whole book more (the flashbacks are first person but the “present day” sections are third person).

I really enjoyed the Gilded Age setting, especially since I just visited New York City and some of the Newport mansions. That recent experience helped me visualize the story much more clearly.

The faith content was very evident, which is something I always appreciate about Austin’s books. I didn’t love that part of the message kept appearing as “follow your heart,” because to me, that’s a worldly exhortation.

Content warnings: suicide (x2), death of loved ones, cheating on a spouse, pregnancy out of wedlock

This book!!!! AHHHHH!

Easily a must read for the year. Austin weaves a story of three amazing and different women through the generations, each with their own secrets to share...or choose not to. Each one has dealt differently with life's challenges and curve balls and with how they have allowed themselves to be shaped as a woman and in character through those life lessons. The range of emotions that Austin evokes throughout the book is up, down and all around in all the best ways possible!

This book had me reflecting on the women in my own family, pondering generations of the past and glimpsing understanding and compassion throughout the years. Truly a book worth reading again and again.

This was a wonderful multi-generational novel of three Stanhope women. Set in the gilded age in New York, each woman - Junietta, Sylvia, and Adelaide - must choose how she will respond to the reading of the will of A.B. Stanhope. As his mother, Junietta is confronted with how and where she will live out her days. Sylvia, as his wife, must make decisions that affect not just herself, but his daughter as well. Adelaide, his daughter, is torn between pleasing her mother and her grandmother and rocked by the decisions of her father. Through family dinners and afternoon teas, the backstories of Junietta and Sylvia are unfolded. Much to their surprise, they learn more about each other than they would ever have guessed. The telling of their stories gives Adelaide much to consider as she too must decide what she wants for her future. Lynn Austin develops characters that are complex and strong. You'll be drawn into an era where forward thinking women were not looked highly upon and yet these three all comes to terms with their decisions and are stronger for them.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley and all opinions are my own.

I have always enjoyed Lynn Austin's books and this is no exception.
It wasn't hard to keep up with the different characters point of view. It's sad to think that rich business
men could be so cruel.
Can't wait for the next book by Ms. Austin.

A wonderful, moving story!
The author takes readers on the journey of 3 generations of women who were born into wealth and high society. We are given a glimpse into the past of the grandmother and mother showing us their painful journeys that have shaped them into who they are today.
It’s a powerful tale of the destruction that wealth can bring when coupled with greed and lack of morality.
The author does an amazing job of making the characters realistic and relatable. I especially love Mimi Junie and how selfless and giving she is, always helping those in need. She has the biggest heart and saw value in giving away the blessings that God had given her.

*A big thank you to NetGalley for the complimentary e-book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.