Review - The Secret Between Us by Barbara Delinsky

Title: The Secret Between Us
Author: Barbara Delinsky
Publish Date: Jan 2008
Publisher: Doubleday
Audio Book

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I never actually thought I would enjoy listening to an audio book. I have tried it in the past and ended up never listening to the end. But I had to take a car trip that I knew would be long enough and the radio stations tend to be horrible in between towns, so I thought I'd give it a try. I don't know when or where I picked up this audio book, but I loaded it on my Nook, plugged the card into the ear phone jack and then using my auxiliary cord, plugged it in to my car and out it came through the speakers in the car. Wow, pretty darn simply if you ask me. It was easy to hear and I didn't mind the reader's voice so much.

This was an incredibly sad story of an accident that rocks two families - one, the people in the car and the other, the person who is hit by the car. It is amazing the secrets we keep from each other and more importantly, the secrets we keep to protect our family. I wasn't sure when this would end or how, but I was pleasantly surprised. It wasn't so much a happy ending as it just made me feel good that things were going in the right direction. This story is the difference between right and wrong and how even the people in the right can feel wrong. And there isn't always a right and wrong. It also is hard to define right and wrong. What is a lie really, when it is protecting someone you love? Is it really still a lie if you don't come out and say it, but let others believe what they want?

Deborah is a mother of two, who has way too much on her plate dealing with her sister who is a bit estranged from their father and her father who is the stanch, "I am always right" type of father. She is also still entangled with her ex-husband who has no problem voicing his opinion whether it is wanted or not. She is a physician who works with her father in a joint practice, which makes it that much harder for her to deal with. Her daughter, Grace is within months of getting her license when things go seriously wrong for her one night driving in the rain. Her mother takes the blame because it is safer and easier to not admit the truth than to just allow people to make their own assumptions. From that one decision, a nightmare ensues.

I found that even though I am a stanch believer in the truth always comes out eventually, I felt for Deborah and her need to always protect her family, especially her daughter in this darkest of moments. I felt that I would be torn on what decision I would make, but ultimately it is their undoing.

I can't remember ever reading Barbara Delinsky, but can't imagine I haven't. I enjoyed this book so much and equally that I could drive while reading, killing two birds with one stone. I am sold on audio books and will always try to have some in the car for the car rides that I tend to take every couple weeks. I am also really excited to read Barbara Delinsky's other books. Such wonderful depth and emotion.

Summary -
Nothing will break this mother-daughter bond. Not even the truth.

Deborah Monroe and her daughter, Grace, are driving home from a party when their car hits a man running in the dark. Grace was at the wheel, but Deborah sends her home before the police arrive, determined to shoulder the blame for the accident. Her decision then turns into a deception that takes on a life of its own and threatens the special bond between mother and daughter.

The Secret Between Us is an unforgettable story about making bad choices for the right reasons and the terrible consequences of a lie gone wrong. Once again, Barbara Delinksy has delivered a riveting study of family and a superbly crafted novel, perfectly targeted to reading groups and fans of provocative fiction.

What about you? Ever try audio books?