A cross between a dime-store novel and a true crime saga, Written in Secret is a masterful mix of intrigue, wit, and razor-sharp storytelling. Lydia Pelton, a writer with an uncanny sense of justice, finds herself ensnared by her own words. Writing under the male pseudonym E.A. Dupin, her crime novels serve as a vehicle for vigilante justice—until a real-life serial killer begins mirroring her fictional murders. Now, she must unravel the deadly consequences of the world she’s created.

 

What makes this novel unforgettable is its seamless fusion of humor, suspense, and spiritual depth. The dialogue crackles with energy, especially between Lydia and Officer Abraham Hall—their witty exchanges had me grinning even as the tension mounted. But beyond the sharp humor, Caudill isn’t afraid to explore the murkier depths of sin, justice, and mercy, crafting a mystery that is as thought-provoking as it is gripping.

 

Lydia’s journey is about coming to terms with the power of her own words. In a reality where fiction has turned lethal, she wrestles with the weight of conviction and responsibility. Her internal battle is raw and compelling: she longs for justice, but at what cost? The spiritual themes running through the novel don’t feel like an afterthought; they challenge, provoke, and linger well after the final page.

 

Then there’s Abraham Hall, the skeptical detective, who has little patience for Lydia’s brand of justice or her genre. Their dynamic is electric, a slow-burning push-and-pull that adds richness to an already intense story. The romance? Completely earned. No rushed passion, just two strong-willed individuals colliding in the midst of chaos, trying to understand each other while evading a killer’s grasp.

 

Lydia’s struggle forces readers to reflect on the stories they tell themselves—the ones that shape their past, guide their choices, and define their future. Caudill weaves everything together with masterful prose, a taut plot, and characters so vivid they feel like real people.

 

This book has it all: high stakes, razor-sharp dialogue, a touch of romance, and faith content that is both authentic and compelling. It’s the kind of story that grips your heart, challenges one’s heart and mind, and refuses to let go. If you crave a novel that keeps you turning pages late into the night and leaves you thinking long after, Written in Secret is the book you’ve been waiting for.

 

I received a digital ARC of this book from JustRead Publicity Tours, LLC. 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 excellent writing and splendid story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.