““I'm so glad someone has written this book! It’s both tantalising and important. If you’ve ever wondered about the secrets uncovered by activists, spies, private detectives, magicians and even female freemasons (yes, they do exist) read Vanessa Holburn’s fascinating new book - a book which also gives a voice to those who’ve previously been silenced. Secret Women opens up an intriguing world of female empowerment.” -- Lucinda Hawksley, author

"Vanessa Holburn’s Secret Women is a profoundly humane and revelatory work that gives voice to women whose truths have too often been silenced. With journalistic precision and deep empathy, Holburn unearths the hidden lives of women across continents and generations, showing how secrecy can be both shield and shackle. What makes this book unique is its balance of courage and compassion; each story illuminates not only survival but solidarity. In a moment when women’s autonomy and safety remain globally contested, this book could save lives and sanity alike. Every educator, policymaker, therapist, and ally should read it, then listen harder.” — Sarah Tucker, best-selling author, journalist and broadcaster

“Secrets can be terrifying, protective, comforting and often deeply complex. For many women, they’re also shaped by shame, trauma, and the fear of being truly seen and what the repercussions might be. Secret Women creates a safe space for these hidden truths to come into the light. As a clinical psychologist, I know how liberating it can be when silence is transformed. This book offers that liberation with tenderness and courage.” –Dr Marianne Trent, Clinical Psychologist

“A fascinating journey captivating women’s psyche through bold, compelling and deeply relatable case studies, why we keep secrets, what kinds we keep and which ones keep us. Impeccably written, deeply investigative and profoundly honest. Vanessa Holburn holds up a mirror in which every woman will see herself, in one secret or two.” — Rose Sgueglia, Author, Journalist and Researcher

Praise for other books by the same author

“How To Be An Activist is a fantastic book, bringing people from all walks of life into politics to ensure that citizens’ campaigns thrive.” — Dr Lisa Cameron MP

“We all have an inner activist and, with world leaders largely refusing to properly engage on everything from climate change to mental health, there’s never been a more important time to harness her. This book allows you to learn from the experiences of trail-blazing campaigners and make your own positive difference.”

–Natasha Devon MBE, activist and author of A Beginner’s Guide to Being Mental

“I knew shamefully little about the Amritsar Massacre until I picked up this book – and it answered all my questions. Following a clear structure it gives a concise account of British rule in India, making it easy to read and understand what happened at Amritsar, why it happened and the implications on events that followed. A good introduction to this period in

history.” ***** — Diane Stenning, Amazon reviewer

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