The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton masterfully intertwines past and present with vivid storytelling and compelling characters. Readers praised its intricate plot and emotional depth, though some found the pacing slow. Overall, it's hailed as a captivating mystery with richly layered narratives and poignant revelations.

Readers who relish intricate family sagas and historical mysteries will be captivated by Kate Morton's The Secret Keeper. Ideal for fans of Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay and The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah, this novel appeals to those who appreciate dual timelines, deep secrets, and richly woven narratives.

In The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton, Laurel Nicolson returns to her childhood home in 2011 to care for her dying mother, Dorothy, and to unravel why Dorothy murdered a stranger in 1961. Laurel's investigation intertwines with the story of Dorothy's past during WWII, her relationships, and a plot involving a woman named Vivien Jenkins. The novel reveals long-hidden secrets that reshape Laurel's understanding of her family's history. The novel contains references to domestic violence and suicidal ideation.

Mysterious / Suspenseful / Emotional / Contemplative / Nostalgic

- The Secret Keeper is the fifth novel by Australian author Kate Morton, known for her intricate narratives and historical fiction.
- The inspiration for the story was partly derived from Morton's interest in how secrets shape personal histories and affect future generations.
- Kate Morton is celebrated for her lush descriptive style and her ability to weave together multiple timelines, which is evident in The Secret Keeper.

Kate Morton

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Secret Keeper and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Secret Keeper Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Secret Keeper Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Laurel”

Part 1 The Secret Keeper Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Dolly”

Part 2 The Secret Keeper Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Vivien”

Part 3 The Secret Keeper Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Dorothy”

Part 4 The Secret Keeper Part 4 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Secret Keeper Character Analysis

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Themes

The Secret Keeper Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Secret Keeper Symbols & Motifs

Literary Devices

The Secret Keeper Literary Devices

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Important Quotes

The Secret Keeper Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Secret Keeper Essay Topics

The Secret Keeper

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

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Who Should Read The Secret Keeper?

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Book Details