Secrets Never Die by Vincent Ralph
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Secrets Never Die in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The Gist
Secrets Never Die by Vincent Ralph is a lackluster thriller that fails to deliver on its promise of suspense and intrigue.
The Details
One of the main issues with the novel is its predictable plot. From the outset, the twists and turns of the story feel telegraphed, robbing the narrative of any real tension or surprise. Instead of keeping readers guessing, Secrets Never Die follows a formulaic path, with the resolution feeling inevitable from early on. To use a clichéd term, the author kept circling back to the secrets and the guilt one of the characters feels, yet we never get any closer to finding out what this secret is. Keeping the truth just outside of the reader’s reach for so long and keep egging them on became very old very quickly.
Furthermore, the characters in the novel are thinly drawn and lack depth. The protagonist comes across as a generic archetype rather than a fully realized individual. This makes it difficult for readers to empathize with their struggles or root for their success. Supporting characters fare no better, with motivations that feel contrived and unconvincing.
The writing style in Secrets Never Die also leaves much to be desired. While the prose is serviceable, it lacks the elegance and finesse needed to truly elevate the story. Dialogue often feels forced and unnatural, hindering the development of meaningful connections between characters.
Additionally, the pacing of the novel is inconsistent, with long stretches of exposition and backstory bogging down the narrative. Scenes that should be filled with tension and excitement are instead mired in unnecessary detail, making it difficult for readers to stay engaged with the story.
The Verdict
Overall, Secrets Never Die is a disappointing thriller that fails to live up to its potential. With its predictable plot, underdeveloped characters, and uneven pacing, the novel struggles to hold the reader’s interest. While it may appeal to fans of the genre looking for a quick read, those seeking a more gripping and immersive thriller would be better off looking elsewhere.
