Book Review: The Secrets of Us by Lucinda Berry

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

If you love stories that blend psychological suspense with emotional depth and a dash of unhinged chaos, The Secrets of Us by Lucinda Berry is one you’ll want to devour in one sitting. This twisty, dark, and emotionally fraught thriller kept me on edge—and made me question what I thought I knew, right up until the final page.

At the heart of the novel are Krystal and Nichole, foster sisters with a bond forged through trauma and survival. Their relationship is the emotional anchor of the story, and it’s what gives this psychological thriller more weight than just a series of twists and reveals. When Nichole is institutionalized after attempting to kill her husband and insisting he’s been replaced by an imposter, Krystal—now a no-nonsense lawyer—steps in to uncover the truth.

Lucinda Berry expertly plays with perception, sanity, and the weight of past trauma. As Krystal digs into their shared childhood, we’re pulled into a web of secrets, long-buried lies, and a tragedy that shaped their lives. The chapters alternate between past and present, slowly peeling back the layers in a way that feels both intimate and chilling.

I appreciated how the book tackled mental health with nuance and sensitivity while still delivering on all the things thriller fans crave: high stakes, mystery, and a satisfying (and slightly wild) unraveling of truths. The pacing was tight, the atmosphere haunting, and the ending? Let’s just say I had to sit with it for a moment and rethink everything.

What I Loved:

• The sisterly bond—raw, complex, and unwavering.

• The slow-burn unraveling of truth.

• The eerie blend of psychological drama and domestic suspense.

What Kept It from 5 Stars:

• A couple of plot points felt slightly far-fetched or wrapped up a bit too neatly.

• Nichole’s storyline could have used a little more depth in the second half.

Still, The Secrets of Us is a gripping, emotionally intense thriller that doesn’t shy away from the messy, painful parts of love and loyalty. If you enjoy stories where the past is just as dangerous as the present, this one’s for you.

Final Verdict:

Add this to your TBR when you’re in the mood for a fast-paced psychological thriller with heart. Lucinda Berry delivers another dark, satisfying read that’ll leave your pulse pounding and your jaw on the floor.