Book summary: “It Started with a Secret”

Dave
3 min readApr 15, 2024

--

The unmissable Sunday Times bestseller from author of MAYBE THIS TIME, By: Jill Mansell

Listen to the full audiobook for FREE by starting a trial today.

Chapter 1–3: The story opens with Lainey, a single mother, who discovers a stranger’s phone in a restroom and decides to help locate its owner. Meanwhile, Kit, a charming man with a secret past, arrives in town and becomes intrigued by Lainey. We also meet Dana, Lainey’s best friend, who is navigating her own romantic dilemmas.

Chapter 4–6: Lainey and Kit’s paths continue to cross as they develop a tentative friendship. Dana juggles her feelings for a coworker while dealing with her ex-husband’s unexpected return to town. Secrets and misunderstandings abound, setting the stage for drama and romance.

Chapter 7–9: As Lainey and Kit grow closer, they confide in each other about their pasts. Dana faces challenges in her personal life and turns to Lainey for support. The bonds of friendship are tested, and new connections are forged amidst the backdrop of the charming town.

Chapter 10–12: The dynamics between the characters shift as secrets are revealed and relationships are tested. Lainey grapples with her feelings for Kit while navigating the complexities of parenthood. Dana confronts her past and makes decisions about her future.

Chapter 13–15: Romance blossoms as Lainey and Kit confront their feelings for each other. However, obstacles arise that threaten to tear them apart. Dana takes a leap of faith in her own love life, leading to unexpected developments.

Chapter 16–18: As the story reaches its climax, the characters face pivotal moments that force them to confront their fears and desires. Love, forgiveness, and second chances are themes that resonate throughout the narrative, as Lainey, Kit, Dana, and the rest of the townsfolk navigate the ups and downs of life and love.

Chapter 19–21: In the final chapters, loose ends are tied up, and the characters find resolution and happiness in unexpected ways. Lainey and Kit’s love story reaches a satisfying conclusion, as do Dana’s personal struggles. The small town proves to be a place of healing, growth, and new beginnings for all involved.

Overall Summary: “It Started with a Secret” is a charming tale of love, friendship, and second chances set in a picturesque English town. Through the intertwined lives of Lainey, Kit, Dana, and a cast of colorful characters, author Jill Mansell weaves a captivating narrative that explores the power of secrets, the importance of forgiveness, and the beauty of unexpected connections. With its engaging plot, relatable characters, and heartwarming moments, this novel is sure to delight fans of contemporary romance.

Disclosure: This article does include a few affiliate links, which will allow the reader to receive a free audiobook from Audible.

--

--