Official Review: The Secret Diary by Barbara Goss

[Julie Petitbon]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Secret Diary" by Barbara Goss.]

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3 out of 4 stars

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The Secret Diary by Barbara Goss is the thirteenth book in Lockets and Lace, a multi-author, historical romance series. Though it is the thirteenth book in the series, The Secret Diary can be read as a standalone piece. At the start of the story, Betsy Wheeler, the protagonist and an orphan, is left at the altar and facing eviction and homelessness. Betsy speaks with her pastor who offers her a job escorting his mother-in-law, Wilma, back to her home in Muddy Creek, Missouri. Before she leaves, Betsy visits the orphanage where she grew up. She receives an empty locket and no other information.

Betsy instantly bonds with Wilma, but she does not hit it off with Noah, Wilma’s grandson and the sheriff of Muddy Creek. Noah is suspicious of Betsy. Wilma is wealthy, and Noah doesn’t want anyone to take advantage of her. It takes time (and a thorough investigation) before Noah trusts that Betsy’s intentions are true, and they begin to fall in love.

During her journey, Betsy discovers that her mysterious locket belonged to her mother. With Noah’s help, she also finds her mother’s diary and learns about her family. Is she prepared for the secrets of the past, and how will Noah react when he finds out?

This story is a quick and enjoyable read. It revolves around the mystery of Betsy’s parentage and includes a blossoming romance and a bit of danger. Themes of faith and family are also prevalent throughout the book. I particularly like Betsy, as she is a strong, independent, and sassy protagonist. Her life is full of abandonment, yet she still strives to make lasting bonds with others. I also like her easy way with people.

One thing about the book that I don’t love is the lack of development of the story and characters. Throughout the book, I felt like I wanted more – more dialogue, more description of the setting, and more character development. I liked the characters but sometimes questioned their quick acceptance of things. For example, when Betsy meets her half-brother, who is wanted by the law, he immediately accepts the fact that he has a sister. Though this is a complete surprise to him, he is not suspicious at all. This is rather unbelievable. However, I don’t think this piece is meant to be a deep, developed story.

I rate this book 3 out of 4 stars. It is a light, easy read with an interesting, if underdeveloped, plot. There are grammatical errors in the book, and though they do not distract from the reading, there are many. I think this book will appeal to people who like a sweet love story with a bit of suspense and action. Readers who like intense, deep, and well-developed novellas will not enjoy this book.

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The Secret Diary
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Like Julie Petitbon's review? Post a comment saying so!

[Rachel Lea]

I'm definitely one of those readers who prefers "intense, deep, and well-developed novels" (I love how you phrased that!), so I'll probably pass on this one. Thank you for your review, Julie!

[Ivana Tomaš]

I like this brief description of the story. The book includes elements of mystery as well as family ties set in the historic era. I'm interested in reading it.
Thank you for the great review!

[kdstrack]

This does seem like a light read. Portraying Betsy as an orphan and being left at the altar stir the emotions. I want to keep this one in mind for a break after a heavier book. Thanks for much for the recommendation!

[Julie Petitbon]

This does seem like a light read. Portraying Betsy as an orphan and being left at the altar stir the emotions. I want to keep this one in mind for a break after a heavier book. Thanks for much for the recommendation!

It is the perfect book if you want a quick, entertaining read. It stirs the emotions but it is not heavy. I hope you like it!

[Julie Petitbon]

I like this brief description of the story. The book includes elements of mystery as well as family ties set in the historic era. I'm interested in reading it.
Thank you for the great review!

It is an interesting and quick read. With a little bit of romance, history, and mystery - what's not to love?
Thanks for responding! I hope you enjoy the story!

[goreview03]

It's a pleasure to come accross a historical romance series. I'd love to read about Betsy's journey. Thanks for the review.