My thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Books for an advance reader’s copy of this novel.

Lady Clara Duxbury is a thrice-widowed wealthy philanthropist, avid reader, and collector of fine books. She is also something of a bibliotherapist. With her keen empathy for women of her social station who are silently suffering, Lady Duxbury extends invitations to afternoon tea to three young women. In the Victorian age, such invitations are a nod from ‘Society’ about the invitee’s social acceptance.

Lavinia Cavendish is unmarried, insecure, and dangerously ‘passionate,’ by which is meant that she struggles to keep her emotions in check, a must for upper-class women. She fears being labelled hysterical. Her grandmother had been ‘sent away’ to an asylum for exactly that reason, and her father keeps her under close watch. Lady Duxbury encourages her to read and write poetry, to honour her creativity and find comfort in other writers. Eleanor Clarke is brutalized by a hyper-critical, narcissistic husband, who punishes her —including beatings—for every perceived mis-step, but especially for the sin of loving their young son too much. Rose Wharton is an American heiress who has married into an aristocratic family. London Society looks down on her because of what they see as an American boldness that is simply improper among well-bred women. But Rose is not easily cowed, and Lady Duxbury tutors her in the expected comportment for the wife of a soon to be Earl, while also encouraging her to remain true to herself. Jane Eyre gives her particular comfort, as it does all the women and Lady Duxbury herself.

No one has more secrets, or has faced more challenges, than Lady Duxbury. She had little say in her choice of husbands. Even the last one, a much older man who did not harm her, was mostly a means of support in a time when there were few other possibilities for women of all classes. The fact that all three perished ‘of natural causes’ leads to much wondering about whether she had a hand in expediting their deaths. Such is her intelligence and will that she simply stays above the gossip that would make outcasts of most women of her standing. She is, within the rigid constraints of the time, a powerful woman. And she makes it her life’s purpose to empower young women to save themselves and help each other. Books and female friendship are her means.

Madeline Martin has written a number of wonderful books set in reading clubs and libraries. In this one, she emphasizes how both have provided refuge, creative outlets, emotional support and sustenance for what would become the international fight for women’s rights. The Victorians were right to fear that books could ‘ruin’ women, but they were mistaken about how. It was not about their ‘feminine’ morality, but their demand for equality: their rights to speak up, to raise their own children, to being valued for themselves and not merely for their husbands and fathers. This is a thoroughly enjoyable book about issues that are still relevant to women.

Well, if this book won’t make you mad…nothing will! Don’t you just love a book which elicits emotion!

London, 1895: Trapped by oppressive marriages and societal expectations, three women receive a mysterious invitation to an afternoon tea at the home of the reclusive Lady Duxbury. Beneath the genteel facade of the gathering lies a secret book club—a sanctuary where they can discover freedom, sisterhood, and the courage to rewrite their stories.

I did feel this book was a little long but let me tell you, it will make you furious at these men! But you will revel in the women. They are truly outstanding. Talk about brave. In an era where there are very few women’s rights and they are thwarted at every turn…these ladies do not give up.

For a reader, this secret book society had me cheering for all involved!

This is narrated by Saskia Maarleveld. I enjoyed her pacing. She did a good job!

Need a story that makes you thankful for your freedom to read…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

I hosted Madeline Martin on my podcast, Meg’s Reading Room, to discuss this book. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/megs-reading-room/id1761060886?i=1000723684570

Historical fiction set in Victorian era London, The Secret Book Society follows a group of woman with money and status. Despite that privilege, as women they lack freedom in many ways, which is sadly not especially surprising. As reading and writing is highly discouraged for woman, they are invited in secret by Lady Duxbury to join her group, where the knowledge they gain from books and the relationships they develop with each other gives them hope that they’ll be able to gain power against the oppression.

Madeline Martin’s writing style is classic and gorgeous. Highly recommend!

*Thank you to the publisher, Harlequin Trade Publishing|Hanover Square Press for providing with E ARC via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review*

The Secret Book Society was the second book that I read by Madeline Martin, and it will not be the last. Martin's newest book, The Secret Book Society, captured my interest from the title alone. After reading the book's synopsis, I became even more intrigued. I was curious to see how Lady Duxubury, Eleanor, Rose and Lavina would connect. I liked how the story was told from the perspectives of most of the characters, which allowed the reader to connect with each of them better. I liked how Martin depicted each of the women's emotions, which I felt while reading the book. I could feel their pain, fear, anger, and joy while they were together and reading books. When they talked about books, it made me smile because it reminded me of discussing my favorite books with friends and exchanging them.

This book isn't just about friendship; it's also about survival and courage. Each of these women went through so much. I’m glad that they had somewhere where they could escape. I enjoyed how the author developed these women's relationships throughout the book. There were a few slower parts in the book, but they did not last long. I found it difficult to pull myself away from the story. I needed to know how it would end. If I were asked which was my favorite character, I don’t think I would be able to decide, each of the characters was unique in their own way.

The setting was one of my favorite aspects of this book. I adore this time period, and reading about it made me imagine myself there. Martin's novel, <b>The Secret Of Book Society</b>, focused heavily on women and was beautifully written. I could tell how much research went into this book. I'm so glad I got a chance to read this book. I highly recommend it to all historical fiction fans

An amazingly beautifully written story of three ladies: Lavinia, Eleanor, and Rose. They are invited to tea one afternoon and a secret society. Each lady has her own story of disappointment, hardship, sadness and more. This story will pull at your heart, make you wish for this type of friendship if you don't already have it or be eternally grateful if you do.

A novel about a secret book society? Set in 19th century London? Discussing the oppressive nature of life for women? That is The Secret Book Society by Madeline Martin.

We follow three different women who have been invited to a secret meeting with Lady Duxbury. They soon find out these meetings will allow them to be honest with themselves and let their walls fall down around the personas they put in place for society. From fear of being placed in an insane asylum to the abuse they face from the men in their lives, Lady Duxbury provides them with the tools to further their education, minds, and the courage to stand up for themselves.

A fantastic read that had me furious for the way women were treated in the Victorian era. This novel has as strong of a message in today’s world as it did to the women in this novel living in 1890 London.

The Secret Book Society is such a powerful and moving read! I had heard of Victorian women being sent to asylums when they simply became “inconvenient” to the men in their lives, but this novel brings these vague stories to life. Lady Duxbury forms a society of at-risk women into a Secret Book Society, harnessing the power of books to foster friendship, courage, and freedom among its members. I was sorry to reach the end, as I felt that there was still so much more of their stories yet to tell.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I enjoyed the book so much it’s became an instant favorite! I enjoyed the glitz and glamour, teas and gossips, the mystery and the suspense. Most of all, I loved the friendship that was formed over their shared love for books. This book is the Bridgerton for married women 😅

I cannot imagine being in the same era as these women. I would probably be thrown into an asylum too! 🫣 so thankful we are now free to make decisions and read whatever we want to read.

I got the ARC version and the audiobook, which I also love very much! I surely will grab a physical copy before @madelinemmartin ‘s tour in Cleveland in September!

Set in London during the Victorian era, a group of privileged ladies begins to meet to read and discuss books. Such a seemingly innocent affair, but one that causes their husbands to feel threatened. Each one of them has been forbidden to read books at one time or another. One has even gotten punished for her poetry writing.

The leader of the group is Lady Duxbury, a widow who has buried three husbands and been the subject of much gossip. Lady Duxbury chose the members because she saw in them some similarities to what she experienced when she was younger. She knows that reading can open many doors and also provide an escape from reality when needed.

The women become very close and work together to find a safe haven when one of the members so desperately needs one. Spousal abuse and verbal abuse seem to be the norm for the husbands. They have the power and they flaunt it, but the ladies in the book club gather the courage to take advantage of their own power and make their lives better because of it.

I loved all the ladies and found the book to be much more exciting than I was expecting. Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing/Hanover Press for allowing me to read an advance copy. I am pleased to give my honest review and recommend this book to other readers.

One act of kindness can create a reach far beyond what we see. And Martin delivers this theme beautifully through both her characters and storytelling.

What struck me most were the emotional moments shared between women that faced different types of oppression, and yet through the Secret Book Society they are united by their shared desire for freedom and something greater. Set in a time that feels eerily reflective of our own, the story explores the constant limitations placed on women by men. This book is a powerful reminder of the strength women hold when we stand together.
I also absolutely loved the audiobook narrated by Saskia Maarleveld, her narration hooked me from the start. The way she voiced each character made me feel connected to them on such a personal level.
I can’t overstate how moving and powerful this book is and how it beautifully explores the courage, deep connection, and the unshakable strength of sisterhood.

*Thank you to Madeline Martin, Harlequin Trade Publishing, Harlequin Audio and Netgalley for the ARC/ALC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

#TheSecretBookSociety by Madeline Martin really is a tale of sisterhood, but sisterhood borne through misfortune and hardships, and a common desire to expand a group of women’s severely limited horizons through friendship and the reading of books. There were many times I wanted to throw my book at the wall, not because of anything the author did, but simply because I was so mad at how women were treated by their husbands back in the 1800s. I did love that this book was kind of inspired by a true story—but you’ll have to read the author note at the end to figure out what that is!
A big thank you to Madeline Martin for writing this wonderful book, and to HarperCollins/Harlequin/Hanover and NetGalley for giving me the chance to read and review this book before its publication

Thank you @htp_hive @htpbooks @hanoversquarepress @madelinemmartin for my #gifted copy of The Secret Book Society! #HiveInfluencer #htpbooks #HTPHive #hanoversquarepress #MadelineMartin #TheSecretBookSociety

𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐭𝐲
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: 𝐌𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐧
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐀𝐮𝐠𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝟐𝟔, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

𝟱★

If you have not yet read Madeline Martin, and you love historical fiction, now is your chance! All of her books have been 5 stars and I have learned something from each one of them. Also, I love how there has been a connection to books! Books about books are some of my favorites and on top of that, the female friendships in this book will stick with me for a long time! With that said, parts of this book infuriated me learning about the oppressive world they lived in. However, the friendship they formed and the power of books that brought them together was truly beautiful. As always, when it comes to Madeline Martin’s books, don’t skip the Author Note at the end!

📖Victorian London Setting
📖Women Friendship
📖Found Family
📖Power of Books
📖Forbidden Book Club

Posted on Goodreads on August 26, 2025: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/144922955?ref=nav_profile_l
**Posted on Instagram - Full Review- on or around August 26, 2025: http://www.instagram.com/nobookmark_noproblem
**Posted on Amazon on August 26, 2025
**-will post on designated date

Rating: 4/5

*Thank you to Madeline Martin, Hanover, and NetGalley for this ARC! All reviews are my own opinions.

I LOVED this book! This mysterious and secretive book society was just what I needed with a bit of spunk, a touch of romance here and there (but a very small touch), and the friendship that comes from sharing a love of books. Overall, the writing was very good and the way the story progressed was wonderful!

I really loved this book! It's solid 3.5 - 4 star rating for me. Thank you to NetGalley and the publishing team for a free eARC of The Secret Book Society in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.

Madeline Martin has delivered a historical novel that’s as atmospheric as it is empowering. The Secret Book Society whisks readers away to Victorian London (one of my favorite eras) in 1895, where three women, each trapped by societal expectations and suffocating marriages, receive a mysterious invitation that changes their lives.

What begins as an elegant afternoon tea quickly reveals itself to be something far more daring: a secret book club hosted by the enigmatic Lady Duxbury. Behind closed doors, Eleanor, Rose, and Lavinia discover not only the written word, but also freedom, sisterhood, and the bravery to confront the truths they’ve long kept hidden.

Martin crafts each woman with depth and empathy—Eleanor’s quiet strength, Rose’s fish-out-of-water resilience (she's an American), and Lavinia’s artistic spirit intertwine beautifully with Lady Duxbury’s razor-sharp presence. As the story unfolds, dangerous secrets and whispered scandals weave tension through the pages, making this both a tale of friendship and survival. I really love how all of these women come together and grow as individuals!

As a woman working in a male-dominated industry in corporate America, I found myself deeply moved. I am constantly in awe of the women who laid the groundwork for me to have freedoms they never did—the right to vote, to work, to own property, and most importantly, to read whatever I want, however I want, without shame, embarrassment, or the need to justify myself. This novel is a powerful reminder of the courage it took to challenge silence and create space for the voices of women.

Equal parts suspenseful and heartwarming, The Secret Book Society is a love letter to books, to women who dare to break free, and to the power of solidarity. It’s a story that lingers, reminding us how courage often begins with a single invitation.

This novel is perfect if you loved the series, A League of Extraordinary Women by Evie Dunmore! It's another series about women championing women!

The Secret Book Society by Madeline Martin ja another captivating new historical novel. Set in Victorian London about a forbidden book club, dangerous secrets, and the women who dare to break free.
I really enjoyed this book and read it in 2-3 days. It was the book that when I wasn't reading it, I couldn’t wait to get back to reading it again.
I loved the characters and the storyline.
The writing as usual was phenomenal.

Thank You NetGalley and Hanover Square Press for your generosity and gifting me a copy of this amazing eARC!

Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, Hanover Square Press, The Hive and the author for the arc!

ALL. THE. STARS! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

There are some stories that are enjoyable & entertaining but once they are over, you just give a satisfying sigh & move on. THEN … there are those stories that squeeze your heart so hard & leave you sitting in a pile of every emotion once that last page is turned, making it quite impossible to let go of the book, hugging it to your chest like a cherished friend. THIS is that book!

@madelinemmartin does a phenomenal job of inviting us into the lives of 4 women from Victorian era London, vividly helping us experience their individual struggles, their need to embrace friendship in each other & their journey to find freedom in the midst of overwhelming societal oppression. Each character was real, authentic, brave & strong! I absolutely LOVED Lady Duxbury getting a peek into her journal was one of my favorite parts!

The book starts off with a captivating hook & keeps you in its grasp the entire way through! Which of these woman is the one in the carriage being stolen away to a lunatic assylum!? In the end we find out & together the women use their clever problem solving skills to fight for one of their own. The ending is absolutely “chef’s kiss”!

It’s official folks, my new favorite Madeline Martin book … so far! (wink!)

This story takes place in 1895. It is the story of four women and the hardships of being a woman in this time period We watch these four women come together in what they call the secret book society under the guise of tea parties. It was frowned upon and often forbidden for wine to read novels. Through these teas we watch the women learn what true friendship is.
I loved this book and highly recommend it. I am thankful to NetGalley and the publishers for an advance copy.

📕 Ⓑⓞⓞⓚ Ⓡⓔⓥⓘⓔⓦ 📕

Title: The Secret Book Society
Author: Madeline Martin
Publisher: Hanover Square Press
Format: 📖
Review: 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫
Pub Date: August 25, 2025

Thank you to Net Galley and Hanover Square Press for the e-ARC and for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

❓If you could only have access to one book forever what book would it be?

This book is so great! Imagine a world (this is real) where women were not allowed to read what they wanted… well in Victorian England at the end of the 1800’s women were only allowed to read books that were deemed necessary for them to be good wives and a part of society…. Yes, I kid you not!

Enter The Secret Book Society, where Lady Duxbury, invite a small group of women to her house to join a secret book club. They now have access to her library, a safe space to read, and slowly she starts to empower these women to stand up for themselves and fight for their rights! The women are inspired by Jane in Jane Eyre and the plot of Sense and Sensibility. I couldn’t put this book down because I needed to see the plot of the other female characters play out to the end of the book! You will also hear about women being forced into asylums to do hysteria (or husbands who just don’t want to deal with their wives….). If you like watching Downton Abby and Bridgerton this book is for you!

#ARCreview #historicalfiction #womensfiction #victorianerabooks

3.5 ⭐️. Without having read any reviews, the plot of the story was interesting, a mix between Bridgerton crossed with Austen and Brontë sisters. In fact, there's a passage of the book that very much reminded me of Wuthering Heights. I still felt like the story lacked a bit more excitement and depth, but it is just my opinion. I did not like, after reading the author's note, that she had used a real story of the era and added it to the plot as it happened, just changing a couple of details. I know, I know...real life is more incredible than fiction, I guess I was just disappointed. I see though how this book will attract many readers. So give it a go.