Secrets at the Cafe: A Novel of Suspense about Family and Friendship by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Secrets at the Cafe was a different take on a mystery read. The characters were cute and the story was good. I think the author did a nice job of keeping readers attention throughout and not making it too predictable so that I wanted to keep reading!
Secrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Karina has returned home because her grandmother is in her last days. Gigi asks her to come home and take over her café and to read the diary that she has left behind. Karina takes the promise to heart and returns home from Seattle and takes over the café. Unfortunately a customer finds her grandmother’s diary and it comes up missing. She is determined to find the diary and learn more about her grandmother in the process. However the whole town seems to think there is a hidden treasure map in the diary and everyone is set to find it. Will Karina find the diary and learn her families secrets?
Secrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is a little mystery that revolves around a little red journal. It is a nice “who dunnit” story. I had suspicions but the author does a good job of throwing the reader off track. There is a slew of characters that grace the pages. All of them involved or suspect in this case. The story started off good but then seemed to drag a bit for me. The characters had a hard time holding my interest as the book moved along. I could easily flip several pages and still be in the same conversation between characters so I really didn’t miss anything. I have read books by this author before. One I loved and another was okay. So I figured I would give her another try. This one just did not work for me.
Secrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this story by Susan Specht Oram. She’ll captivate you in just the first few chapters. This mysterious story will have you holding on till the last moments. Karina is trying to help her grandma in her last moments back home only to be pulled into the journal. Fantastic read.
Secrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A rainy Saturday read for me – it was fun. I enjoyed the characters in this story -Karina taking care of her Gigi’s cafe, searching for her lost journal, keeping her cousin in check… it is a mystery waiting to be solved. I loved the small town feel of this novel and the many people that we meet along the way.
Secrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This isn’t my first read by Susan Specht Oram and likely not the last. I really enjoyed Secrets at the Cafe from the very beginning. The opening chapter already evokes emotion and engagement from the very start and the writing kept my attention. I read so many stories written in multiple perspectives I really enjoyed the first person narrative. This author has a talent for writing really great female heroines and this book was no exception. I would definitely recommend Secrets at the Cafe.
Secrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
When Karina’s grandmother passes away she asks Karina to return home and run her cafe. She makes her promise that while she’s doing that she’ll find and read her journal. Turns out running the cafe is more intense than she anticipated and she couldn’t get her hands on the journal immediately. So when a little red journal is found in the dining room Karina is determined to start reading, but when she turns her back to take care of a customer the journal vanishes.
Now Karina has to find the journal and hunt down the flies inside of it to uncover the past (and maybe a few secrets) while rumors are spreading like wildfire around town. In a suspense about families and secrets things are likely to never be the same.
This is unlike anything I’ve read in a while! With twists and turns and all the determination of a granddaughter missing her grandmother, this is a story I won’t forget. It was fast-paced and kept my attention from start to end. If there’s more like this, I can’t wait to find it.
Secrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was an engaging Suspense mystery that keeps you gripped and guessing throughout the story. The twists and turns means you can’t figure out what is going to happen which kept me reading more as I wanted to find out the answers.
Karina Walker has had her life turned upside down when her grandmother passes away leaving her to run the cafe her grandmother has made a success but that’s not all. Her grandmother tells her she needs to read her journal. Karina struggles to carry on her grandmother’s work but when the journal is found by customers and then suddenly goes missing Karina goes on the hunt to find who has taken it and why.
The list of suspects keeps growing and as she searches hidden secrets and rumours start to come to life.
Can she work through her families past to succeed in her future? What secrets does the journal hold that someone obviously wants? And will the secrets when revealed turn Karina life upside down anymore than it already is?
This story is an engaging mystery and a page turning read. I felt in parts sorry for Karina as she gives up everything she knows to fulfill her grandmothers final wish and now she has to struggle with the secrets that come to light as well as coming to terms with all that she has lost.
Secrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love this author! I also love that all the books in this series are intertwined in a way it works magically. Also all the books work extremely well as standalone novels, which is a nice change of pace vs other books that don’t. Secrets at the Cafe are no different.
It’s another drama that sucks you in and keeps you wanting more. Tell that to the main character Karina, she hightailed it home when her grandma was fighting for her life. Now with her gran gone she’s running herself ragged. Causing her to confuse people, needing to help all others around her gets her in trouble.
So when gran’s notes and knick nak’s started to disappear, Katrina was determined to find them at all costs. But as things start to unravel, is it now time for her to stop or push forward for the answers she seeks?
I know I’ve said this before but I’ll say it again. This is probably my favorite book to date. Each book seems to get better and better! An author worth digging into! A story definitely worth the read! Enjoy!
Secrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A promise to keep the cafe running, a missing journal, a secret sibling that she never knew existed. Lies that she grew up believe as truth. Karina, has just had her world turned upside down with the death of her Grandmother, the one who raised her after her parents died in a car accident when she was young. Only that’s not cut and dry as Karina has believed her whole life. With the death of her grandmother, she promises to keep the cafe running her grandmothers dying wish. Karina leaves behind her job, her dreams and her life to move back to where she grew up and take over the cafe. Her grandmother on her death bed told Karina to read her journal and everything will make sense, only the journal has gone missing. In this mystery Karina must find out who took the journal to unlock all the secrets of Karina’s past. A can’t put down mystery that’s so relatable you can picture yourself sitting in the cafe drinking coffee and eating scones with the characters.
Woman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is a well written and surprisingly emotional story and I found myself connecting with Devorah much more than I expected to. There is so much going on through this story, but it is all emotional and angst ridden that it has a completely different feel than what I thought it would.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and what an introduction it was. The way the book is written really drew me in to the story. I wanted to see how Devorah would develop and what was in store for her. There was also a bit of an edge to the book that added an extra element which made is even better. This is a great book that is very much worth the read.
Woman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the first piece of work I have read by this author, and I hope it will not be the last! I found the character Devorah Fields to be interesting and relatable, and her story to be captivating and inspiring. I am always drawn to books with a strong female protagonist, and while Devorah might initially seem “unreachable” being an actress and model, I actually found it very easy to slip right into her world and feel the things she goes through. As a working mom and wife, I found her quest to rediscover herself to be endearing and on point. Reading Devorah’s story will inspire anyone to take a good look at their own life and ask “Is this really who I am?” I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a good emotional story to get lost in.
Secrets at the Cafe: A Novel of Suspense about Family and Friendship by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Karina’s grandmother’s diary disappears. Now she is on a hunt to find it and fulfill her grandmother’s wish for her to read it and solve the mystery. Easy read and good book.
Secrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Secrets At the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram proved to be a tense and engrossing mystery. It is also my favourite of all Ms. Specht Oram’s books so far. This story weaves a complex tale with plenty to keep you avidly reading.
It’s a mystery, with a bit of a domestic suspense element, twists, drama, puzzling developments, a missing journal, an unexpected stash, discovery, rumours, buried secrets, colourful + quirky characters, surprises, family, tension, quirky characters, promises, and a small-town setting. I really enjoyed this book- I just wish the ending didn’t feel so rushed, as that did detract slightly from the rest of the story.
Karina’s never expected her promise to her grandmother would lead her on a tense investigation- untangling long-buried secrets, and putting together a puzzle in order to get to the bottom of things turns into quite a journey of discovery. Things aren’t exactly as they seem. With a missing journal, a promise to fulfil, and secrets at every turn won’t make this an easy quest for Karina- but she’s determined to do right by her grandmother. And so the intrigue begins….
A well-woven, creative, and tense read by Ms. Specht Oram. Looking forward to seeing whatever she does next.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Susan Specht Oram!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Secrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4.5 stars
Another great read by Susan Specht Oram! This one kept me very intrigued as the journal in question was discovered missing right from the start. It was up to Karina to figure out where the journal was and to save her inheritance.
A very riveting read that will have you guessing until the end! I love this author’s writing style and how she portrays the story. I highly recommend this read, as well as all of the author’s other works!
Secrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Fast paced story that is full of suspense, deep secrets and there is a suspect in every corner. I really love this authors book and this story is no exception.
Karina is back in Millersville, Oregon after making a promise to her dying grandmother to take over her beloved cafe. Not only did Gigi leave a cafe for Karina to take over but she also left a diary with secrets to reveal…but when the diary goes missing before Karina is able to read the diary…there is suspects at every turn. Who would take the diary..and is it for their own personal use?
I do not want to give any spoilers but this was a great read. I loved trying to figure out who the culprit would be in taking the diary…..and just when you think you have it figured out…… and the secrets!! Great read and highly recommended.
Secrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Karina promises her grandmother that she will take over running her cafe when she dies. Karina discovers her grandmothers journal only for it to disappear. She must solve the mystery of who took it and why. Karina wants the journal so that she will know Gigi better and to learn some answers to secrets that seem to be popping up.
Secrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
“Secrets at the Cafe” by Susan Specht Oram is a captivating mystery with an intriguing plot centered around a missing journal. The story follows the main character, Karina, as she sets out on a thrilling adventure to uncover the truth behind the journal’s disappearance.
From the very beginning, Oram grabs the reader’s attention with her vivid descriptions and well-developed characters. Karina is a relatable and determined protagonist who will stop at nothing to solve the mystery. Her journey takes her to different places and introduces her to a variety of fascinating individuals who may hold the key to solving the puzzle.
One of the standout aspects of this novel is Oram’s ability to create a rich and immersive atmosphere. The cafe itself is described in such detail that readers will feel as if they are sitting at one of the tables, sipping a hot cup of coffee. The author’s attention to detail enhances the mystery, making it even more engrossing.
Throughout the book, the pacing remains steady, keeping readers engaged as they try to piece together the clues alongside Karina. The plot twists and turns, keeping you guessing until the very end. Oram skillfully manages to maintain suspense and build tension, creating a sense of urgency that propels the story forward.
Additionally, Oram’s writing style is clear and concise, allowing the story to flow smoothly. The dialogue is realistic and adds depth to the characters, making them feel like real people. The author also does an excellent job of intertwining the present-day narrative with flashbacks and snippets from the missing journal, providing insight into the story’s secrets and adding layers of intrigue.
However, one slight drawback of the novel is the resolution felt somewhat rushed. After an intense buildup, the conclusion comes together quite swiftly, leaving readers craving more closure. While this doesn’t detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the book, it could have been more satisfying with a slower-paced resolution.
In conclusion, “Secrets at the Cafe” is a captivating mystery with a well-crafted plot, unforgettable characters, and a beautifully depicted setting. Susan Specht Oram weaves a tale filled with secrets, twists, and turns that will keep readers guessing until the very end. Despite a slightly rushed conclusion, this novel is a gripping read that mystery enthusiasts will thoroughly enjoy.
Secrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Full of twists and mysteries and I loved the entire thing. From the first till the last page, I was sucked right in. The characters were great! I absolutely loved Karina! She’s amazing and very determined! The title and cover is what drew me in from the start and the story didn’t disappoint me at all! Enjoyable read.
Secrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A gripping novel about family and friendship which kept me hooked throughout. Having rushed to her dying grandmother’s bedside, Karina Walker agrees to move home and take over the old café. The grieving Karina also promises to read a journal but is shocked when the red book disappears. She teams up with her cousin to make a list of suspects, fearing that someone overheard her mention a hidden stash of money. Karina is determined to track down her inheritance but the town is full of rumours, and when she discovers a buried secret it could change things forever. Karina wants to build a new future for herself but must confront her family’s past first. This was a real page turner and I literally could not put the book down. The intriguing storyline and unpredictable plot twists kept me guessing until the last page, whilst the suspense definitely built chapter by chapter. I loved the main character Karina as she was a very independent and determined heroine. This was an entertaining and engaging read and one which I definitely recommend.
Secrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This author has produced another well written and interesting cozy mystery story that I have enjoyed from start to finish. I loved the character in this book. she was strong, determined and a pleasure to read. It was lovely to see her develop as the book progressed.
The story was entertaining. I wanted to figure out the mystery of the missing notebook and loved watching how it all unfolded. The author has a wonderful writing style that pulls readers in with ease. I would highly recommend this book and her work overall.
Secrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Oh my, I loved this story. The author set it up so well. The journal disappeared right at the beginning. A cast of characters are suspect. Her cousin’s boyfriend is her ex=boyfriend. I literally couldn’t put this one down. I had to know what was coming next. I loved how this story kept you in suspense and had several mysteries going at once. This author is one of my favorites for her style of writing. She has an excellent way of setting up suspense novels.
Secrets at the Cafe: A Novel of Suspense about Family and Friendship by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Secrets at the Cafe is another interesting and engaging Women’s fiction suspense tale from Susan. What I like about her writing is the intriguing premises she comes up with each story.
The eclectic cast of characters are engaging, well developed and fully realised and it’s hard not to like them and become invested in them. Some of them did make me laugh. We meet up with characters from previous books.
With tensions running high Karina will stop at nothing to fulfill the deathbed promise she made to her grandmother. Now she just has to solve the mystery of who wants and why they took Gigi’s missing diary. What are they hiding? What will they do to hide these secrets?
I read it in one day the pages flying by as I was completely immersed in the story that is so easy to get lost in and having to know how it ended.
Once again Susans vivid narrative helps the story along as she cleverly weaves together a web of secrets in this mystery.
With secrets, family, rumours, upheaval, death, grief, suspects, drama, suspense and so much more there is something for everyone wo enjoys a good mystery.
Follow along in this heartfelt tale as Karina and troops unravels a world of secrets and mysteries that have been long buried in this tumultuous twisty journey.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Secrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is not my first book by this author but it is one of my favorites. This is a suspenseful story about family, friendship, a deathbed promise and a missing diary. A story full of drama and twists and turns that will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat. A fast paced and well written story that is hard to put down. I enjoyed how the characters pulled me into their world. They kept the story engaging and turning pages fast. They are connectable and add so much to the story. This is an easy story to read as well as entertaining. There is great growth to the story which just added to the plot suspense. I really enjoyed this story and I highly recommend it.
Review by @bjwagner
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Secrets at the Café: A Novel of Suspense about Family and Friendship by Susan Specht Oram
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Genre – Suspense, Women’s Fiction
Page Count – 234
Goodreads – Secrets at the Café: A Novel of Suspense about Family and Friendship
Bookbub – Secrets at the Café: A Novel of Suspense about Family and Friendship
A deathbed promise. A missing diary. Can she find her loved one’s message and fulfill a last wish?
Karina Walker is juggling with unexpected upheaval. Rushing to her dying grandmother’s side, the grieving twenty-four-year-old agrees to move home, take over the old café, and read a journal left behind. But she’s shocked to her core when the little red book disappears from view the moment she turns her back.
Building a list of suspects who may have overheard mention of a hidden stash of money, Karina teams up with her cousin and a former teacher to track down her inheritance. And while rumors run rampant around town, she discovers a buried secret that could change her forever…
Can Karina confront her family’s past and build herself a new future?
Secrets at the Cafe is an unforgettable, page-turning domestic suspense. If you like determined heroines, dizzying plot twists, and breathtaking dramas, then you’ll adore Susan Specht Oram’s riveting read.
Buy Secrets at the Cafe today to untangle a puzzle that will pull you through the pages!
~ AMAZON ~
Click here to view the Book Trailer forSecrets at the Café: A Novel of Suspense about Family and Friendship by Susan Specht Oram
Woman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a sweet story of someone finding themself after a tough time. I enjoyed getting to know Devorah through her own eyes. She went on a journey to get herself out of an abusive relationship and what sounded like a tumultuous childhood. I have to admit, that the story doesn’t seem far fetched for the “stars of California” as it reminds me of the many reality shows on tv these days. Devorah has several people in her corner – her stepmom, cat Fergie, new friend Andrew, old friend Pauline and Misty. I loved that for her. They each gave her a bit of strength to heal and become who she is meant to be.
PS. Her ex – UGH!
https://www.amazon.com/review/R24C9TTAXKUN6W/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rvv
https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/4043088714
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5970448818
The Podcast Chronicles by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was everything I’d hoped it would be, and so much more. When I read what this was going to be about, I was excited, mostly because, I was there. When I read this book, it was like she was mirroring my feelings, about life, about kids, about marriage, about it all. and I was just THERE… Through the tears, the anger, all of it. Let me just say, this book was so much more than just what it was written about. The Podcast Chronicles opened eyes. It shows you that you can do more than you believe, even when you thought that you couldn’t… And for that, and so much more, Kathryn Dodson has done a PHENOMENAL job with this book. I can’t wait to read more of her work.
The Podcast Chronicles
I felt a kinship with Sue from the beginning. She and I are the same age and trying to figure out the next steps in life now that the kids no longer need us like they used to. The prospect of having to figure the next path to take is not only hard but also scary.
Sue evolved and developed her own identity and learned so much about herself as well as others. She is no longer Gabe’s wife and the boys mom but she is now Sue and I loved every minute of it.
I enjoyed the book and hope to see Sue again.
The Podcast Chronicles by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4.5/5
This book was so good! I read it one day. This was my first read by this author and I will be reading more.