Book Review: Best Kept Secret

By Amy Bromberg

"Best Kept Secret," by Amy Hatvany, was one of my favorite books of 2011. After reading the synopsis, I wasn’t sure if this was something I would like, as I lean more towards lighter reads. But after hearing and reading such rave reviews, I knew I had to read it. All I can say is I’m so glad I did.

Amy Hatvany has a magnificent ability to get inside a character’s persona, which is exactly what she does with Cadence, the main character. We first meet Cadence as a happily married woman, a successful journalist and a mother to her little boy Charlie, who she loves more than life itself. Then things start to change, including going through a divorce and leaving her full time job to start freelancing, so she can take care of Charlie. What started off as having a couple glasses of wine a day, to take the edge off and help her sleep, turns into Cadence drinking all the time. Cadence ends up admitting herself into rehab and must deal with all of it’s aftermaths.

Even though the book does not surround the topic of divorce, I do have to say that I can indirectly relate, as my parents got divorced when I was nine years old. Even though my mother was not an alcoholic, I can see my mom in Cadence’s character. It’s unbearable having to cope with all that happens before and after a divorce, especially when there’s a child involved.

I felt as if I was actually side by side with the characters, and could really experience and feel their emotions. It felt as if I was struggling right along with Cadence. Amy does a fantastic job portraying the world of alcoholism, and how it takes over the addict’s life, their choices and actions. They don’t realize that they are actually addicted until it’s too late. I admire how Cadence realizes that only we, ourselves, not other things or other people, can change our lives. She turns into an extraordinary strong individual.

I have already started sharing this book with my friends and family. I can see this story being on the big screen and taking home almost all of the Oscars. It’s such a powerful and heart-warming read. If you are like me you will not be able to put the book down.