Books With Secret in the Title
If you know me, you know that I love a quirky book post and this one fits the bill. You would think that all books with secret in the title would be mysteries, but you would be mistaken!
These are my favorite books with Secret in the title and they range from contemporary fiction and mysteries to middle-grade books and fantasies. Kirsten and I read and loved all these books and wanted to put them together in one place. I hope you love them as much as I do.
The Best Books With Secret in The Title
Each colorful block below represents the best book in a subgenre of books with secret in the title. Click on the arrow to reveal my “best” pick in any category. You’ll also be able to use a page jump to see more books in that section.
Contemporary Fiction Books With Secret in the Title
Secret Life of Albert Entwistle by Matt Cain- Jump to Review
Historical Fiction Books With Secret in the Title
Secret Keeper by Kate Morton- Jump to Review
Mystery and Thriller Books With Secret in the Title
Symphony of Secrets by Brendan Slocumb- Jump to Review
Fantasy Books With Secret in the Title
Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna – Jump to Review
Middle-Grade Books With Secret in the Title
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett- Jump to Review
*Post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you. Some books have been gifted. All opinions are our own.
Contemporary Fiction Books With Secret in The Title
The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle
Author: Matt Cain
Year: 2021
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This charming contemporary fiction story is about a 65-year-old British postman being forced to retire. As he takes stock of his life, he realizes he is lonely and he doesn’t want to be in the closet anymore. As he sets about changing his life for the better, we are privy to flashbacks of his strict childhood.
Trigger Warnings
Homophobia
Why Jackie loves it
You’ll be rooting for Albert the same way you rooted for Ove.
Find this book in: Ultimate List of Feel-Good Books / Books Like A Man Called Ove / Best Books From 2022 / Ultimate Beach Reads of 2022 /Books with Secret in the Title
Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood
Author: Rebecca Wells
Year: 1996
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
More info: Book 1 of 3 of the Ya-Ya Series
Age Range: 15+
Plot
Four Southern women have a lifelong friendship known as the Ya-Ya Sisterhood. In this novel written by Rebecca Wells, we see the complex relationship between mothers and daughters and how this sisterhood navigates love and life together while proving that laughter is the best medicine.
Trigger Warnings
Child Abuse
Why Kirsten loves it
This is one of the friendship books that is a story about the bonds of sisterhood. Through flashbacks, secrets, and conversations, the Ya-Ya Sisterhood confront their past and heal wounds through the strength of their friendship.
Find this book in: Books With Secret in the Title / Heartwarming Friendship Books
The Secret History
Author: Donna Tartt
Year: 1992
Genre: Literary Fiction
More info: December 2022 Read with Jenna Book Pick
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Richard is one of a select group of six students who have been hand-picked to work under the guidance of a classics teacher named Julian Morrow. Richard is narrating the story and he begins by telling about the death of one of the students named Bunny.
As the story progresses, it is clear that this secret society of students rides the line of morality. The strained friendships and sexual tensions continue to push the edge until Bunny is killed.
Trigger Warnings
Murder, Alcoholism, Suicide
Why Jackie likes it
This is one of the books about secret societies that was deeply disturbing and difficult to read. It certainly earns its place on our list of dark academia books and books about cults! And as with most books set in college, this one is a perfect book for fall.
Find this book in: Books set in College / Books about Cults / Books about Secret Societies / Best Fall Books / Dark Academia Books / Books Set in the 80s / Books With Secret in the Title
Historical Fiction Books With Secret in The Title
The Secret Keeper
Author: Kate Morton
Year: 2012
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: New York Times Bestseller
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This story revolves around a woman trying to uncover why her mother committed a crime almost 50 years prior. Having witnessed her mother, Dorothy, stab a man, Laurel starts to dig around into Dorothy’s past. Told as a dual narrative, the more we learn about Dorothy’s past, the more questions and secrets arise.
Why Kirsten loves it
I adore Kate Morton. She is one of my absolute favorite authors and The Secret Keeper was Morton at her finest. Her books meld historical fiction, with contemporary fiction and romance with mystery.
Find this book in: Kate Morton Books Ranked / Books with Unreliable Narrators / Books Set in the 1960s / Books With Secret in the Title
The Secret War of Julia Child
Author: Diana R. Chambers
Year: 2024
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: An instant international bestseller and a USA Today bestseller!
Age Range: 14+
Plot
Everyone knows Julia Child as the famous chef, but not many people know that she worked for the Office of Strategic Services. While Julia declared that she was not a spy, she certainly played an intriguing role in WWII. This is a biographical fiction that is based on true events and facts. But not everything in the book is true, however much I wish it was.
We follow Julia from Washington where she worked as a full clerk to South Asia where she meets Paul Child.
I loved reading about a Julia Child who didn’t know how to cook, had not experienced different cuisine, and had not yet become the icon we all know and love. I also loved reading about how she met Paul and reading the beginning of their love story.
There is a little bit of something for everyone to love in this rich novel.
Why Jackie loves it
This book was so well-written and I could hear the voice of Julia Child in the writing. I loved the story of Paul and Julia and the only thing that would have made it better was if it was all true! This is biographical fiction at its best.
Find this book in:New Release Books You Must Read / Most Anticipated October 2024 Book Releases / Giftable Books / Books With Secret in the Title
The Secrets We Kept
Author: Lara Prescott
Year: 2019
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: September 2019 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range:16+
Plot
At the height of the Cold War, Irina is chosen by the CIA and given a mission: help smuggle Doctor Zhivago into the USSR.
Trigger Warnings
Rape
Why Kirsten likes it
This was an interesting look at the subversive tactics the CIA took during the Cold War. I had no idea that they engaged in cultural espionage. As always, it’s fascinating to see the role that females play within a spy network. It’s crazy to me that after WWII, many former female spies were sent to the typing pool while their male counterparts got to remain active in the spy community.
Find this book in: Books With Secrets in the Title / Books About Female Spies / Reese Witherspoon 2019
The Bookseller’s Secret
Author: Michelle Gable
Year: 2007
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: NY Times Bestselling Author
Spice Rating:💋💋
Age Range:16+
Plot
This dual-timeline historical fiction novel is set in both WWII London, where we see a floundering Nancy Mitford as a bookseller, getting inspired to write The Pursuit of Happiness, and the present day, where another floundering writer is looking to Mitford for inspiration.
Trigger Warnings
Infidelity
Why Kirsten loves it
Nancy is the character that shines in this pick from WWII books and I love that she’s such a dynamic force. This is a great pick in novels about writers.
Find this book in: Books With Secret in the Title / Best Books About WWII / Ultimate List of Books / Books About Writers
Plot
I don’t think enough is written about Elizabeth, the Queen Mother. She was a dynamic lady who was a guiding light for her husband, King George, as well as Queen Elizabeth. This biographical novel focuses on her work behind-the-scenes during WWII.
Trigger Warnings
Sexual Assault
Why Kirsten loves it
We get an inside look at the issues between her husband and his brother, King Edward, who abdicated to be with Wallis Simpson. Churchill’s relationship with the then Queen consort is also examined. We love the unique perspective of this pick from books about WWII.
Find this book in: Books With Secret in the Title / Best Biographical Fiction Novels / Books About the Royal Family / Books about WWII / Royal Reads / Books like the Crown / Beach Reads 2021
The Secret Life of Bees
Author: Sue Monk Kidd
Year: 2003
Genre: Literary Fiction
More info: Multi-million Best-selling Novel
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This story follows Lily Owens, a 14-year-old girl who runs away from her abusive father. It is 1964 in South Carolina and Lily wants the truth about her late mother. She finds refuge with three Black beekeeping sisters (August, June, and May) who teach her about love, family, and forgiveness. Through her journey, Lily discovers her own strength and begins to heal from her past.
Trigger Warnings
Racism, suicide, abuse
Why Jackie loves it
Sue Monk Kidd is a wonderful writer and this book is unlike anything else I have read. There are facts about bees at the start of every chapter and some elements of magical realism.
Find this book in: Books Set in the 1960s / Books With Secret in the Title
Mystery and Thriller Books With Secret in The Title
Symphony of Secrets
Author: Brendan Slocumb
Year:2023
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: Bestselling author of The Violin Conspiracy, a GMA Book Club Pick.
Age Range:16+
Plot
When a Professor is researching a newly discovered song from a famous American composer, he finds a connection between the composer and a black woman named Josephine Reed. As he digs further into the past, he will not stop until he uncovers the truth about Josephine.
Trigger Warnings
Racism, Murder
Why Kirsten loves it
Flashing between the present day and the 1920s, this story is a character-driven slow-burn until the 60% mark, when it turns into a heart-pounding thriller. I loved this summer book about music and I think you will too.
Find this book in: Books With Secret in the Title / Historical Thrillers/ Ultimate Beach Reads / Novels about Music
Hotel of Secrets
Author: Diana Biller
Year: 2023
Genre:Historical Romance
Spice Rating:💋💋💋💋
Age Range:18+
Plot
The granddaughter of the emperor’s mistress is reopening her family’s hotel when a CIA agent shows up to uncover shady financial issues and spoil her plans.
Trigger Warnings
Murder, Sexual Content
Why Kirsten loves it
Normally, historical romance books take place in England, so imagine my surprise when I found out this hotel novel takes place in Vienna! Finally, a new city to read about – and what a fun city it was! Vienna’s high society and its nightlife came to life in this fun romance.
Find this book in: Books With Secret in the Title / Hotel Novels
One Little Secret
Author:Cate Holahan
Year:2019
Genre: Mystery Thriller
More info: USA Today Bestseller
Age Range:15+
Plot
One Little Secret is a who-dun-it murder mystery about 3 couples who sublet a house in the Hamptons for a week. When one of them turns up dead, it’s up to Detective Watkins to figure out who did it.
Trigger Warnings
Domestic Abuse, Violence
Why Kirsten loves it
There were secrets unveiled on almost every page, but the last 50 or so had me gasping out loud repeatedly. I totally did not see the ending coming. If you are looking for a great thriller, look no further!! This is perfect for fans of The Silent Patient and Woman in the Window.
Find this book in: Books With Secret in the Title / Domestic Thriller Books / Detective Books
The Royal Secret
Author:Lucinda Riley
Year:2000
Genre:Historical Fiction, Mystery, Romance
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
A young journalist is given a mystery to uncover after an old actor passes away, but her investigation quickly turns deadly.
Trigger Warnings
Addiction
Why Kirsten loves it
I felt all the feelings on this one. There were a couple of times when I was truly angry at the author, but in the end, I really enjoyed this mystery book about royalty! Part romance, part mystery, this book has something for everyone and is an amazing beach read.
Find this book in: Books With Secret in the Title / Mystery Books 2024 / Thriller Books / Long Books / Royal Reads
Fantasy Books With Secret in The Title
The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches
Author: Sangu Mandanna
Year: 2022
Genre: Fantasy
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This book for fall is definitely the feel-good book of the Halloween season. Mika Moon knows that she must hide her magic and stay away from other witches so their powers do not draw the attention of other people. She also knows that witches are destined to be orphans, a very lonely existence.
When she is asked to come and teach magic to three young witches, she finds the life that she had always dreamed of, even if it is temporary. But, does it have to be? Can she find the life she always wanted?
Why Jackie loves it
I listened to this charming book in one day and loved it. This adult fantasy book is a delightful pick book for fall. The characters we sweet and the book left me with a smile on my face. I could not put it down.
Find this book in: Witch Books / Feel-Good Books / Adult Fantasy Novels / Books With Secret in the Title
The Ladies of the Secret Circus
Author: Constance Sayers
Year:2021
Genre:Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Romance
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range:16+
Plot
In 2004 Lara Barnes’s fiancé disappeared on their wedding day. As Lara searches for answers, she starts to unravel a family mystery that goes back to 1925. This book has everything. It’s a dark fantasy filled with mystery, disappearances, and magic.
Trigger Warnings
Murder
Why Jackie loves it
Have you ever loved a book so much that you couldn’t put it down but also didn’t want it to end? That is how I felt about the book! I don’t want to give more detail because I don’t want to spoil any part of this book- it was one of my favorite fantasies of 2021!
Find this book in: Books With Secret in the Title / Best Carnival and Circus Books / Beach Reads 2021
Middle-Grade Books With Secret in The Title
Plot
Mary Lennox, selfish and spoilt, was sent to stay with her hunchback uncle. She finds her way into a secret garden and begins to tend to it, and a change comes over her and her life.
Why Jackie loves it
I re-read this book with my daughter and we loved it. I have not read this book since I was a child and I think I loved it more this time. This classic book for kids is the perfect feel-good book. Yesterday was Daughter’s Day and this is the perfect book to read with your little one.
Find this book in: Books With Secret in the Title / Kid’s Books by Age
The Name of this Book is Secret
Author: Pseudonym Bosh
Year: 2008
Genre: Middle Grade Mystery
Age: 8 – 11
More info: Secret #1
Plot
This kids’ mystery book series is a captivating and mysterious journey that follows two young friends, Cass and Max-Ernest, as they stumble upon a hidden and enigmatic adventure. As they uncover cryptic messages and unravel secrets, readers are drawn into a suspenseful world of puzzles, codes, and intrigue.
Why Jackie loves it
This book is a thrilling journey that keeps you guessing until the very end. It’s the first in a 6 book series that will keep your young reader eagerly turning pages.
Find this book in: Best Books for 11-year-olds / Mystery Books for Tweens / Books With Secret in the Title
The Secret Library
Author: Kekla Magoon
Year: 2024
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy
Age: 8 – 12
More info: New York Times Bestseller
Plot
Dally lives in a big house, she has servants and a rich mom. She has everything she could ever want, except her freedom, and her grandpa. Annoyed by her mother’s lack of attention, she steals a letter left by her grandpa.
Following the map it had included, she finds herself in a secret library. Not a library that is secret, but rather, a library of secrets. And her family’s secrets make up a lot of them.
Why Jackie loves it
It was very exciting and fun to read. I was hooked on Dally’s story and I couldn’t put it down. I can’t wait to see what Magoon writes next.
Find this book in: Fantasy Books for Tweens / Best Books for 11-year-olds / Books With Secret in the Title
Plot
Nina is the odd duckling in her family, preferring birds to humans. Eager for a break from home, she decided to spend the summer with her quirky aunt who happens to run a summer camp in Texas.
While there, Nina stumbles upon a mating pair of egrets so rare, they haven’t been seen in Texas for almost 100 years. As she works to protect the birds, she begins to form friendships with the other campers helping her keep the secret of the birds.
Why Kirsten loves it
As a summer camp girly, I was eager to pick up this book. It was wonderful to see Nina gain self-confidence at camp while staying true to herself. I also loved checking in on my favorite protagonist from Lynne Kelly’s other book, Song for a Whale.
Find this book in: Best Books for 11-year-olds / Books about Camp / Books With Secret in the Title
Expert Tip
Because this list is based on the title rather than the content, it can be harder to pick a book you love. Here are some tips.
- Are you a “Kirsten” or a “Jackie”? Have a look at the description and who wrote it to help you pick your next book.
- Have a look at the genres. If you love a great fantasy, choose one of the books from that category for your next great read.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a book with secret in the title?
Kirsten and I agree that the Secret Keeper by Kate Morton is our favorite book with secret in the title. But there are so many other great books on this list from different genres like fantasy and historical fiction.
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Epilogue
What is your favorite book with secret in the title? Did I include your favorite? If not, let me know so I can add it to my TBR stack.
