Hidden by Catherine McKenzie on Bette's Bookshelf

Hidden by Catherine McKenzie on Bette's Bookshelf

While walking home from work one evening, Jeff Manning is struck by a car and killed. Two women fall to pieces at the news: his wife, Claire, and his co-worker Tish. Reeling from her loss, Claire must comfort her grieving son as well as contend with funeral arrangements, well-meaning family members, and the arrival of Jeff’s estranged brother, who was her ex-boyfriend. Tish volunteers to attend the funeral on her company’s behalf, but only she knows the true risk of inserting herself into the wreckage of Jeff’s life.

Told through the three voices of Jeff, Tish, and Claire, Hidden explores the complexity of relationships, the repercussions of our personal choices, and the responsibilities we have to the ones we love.

Hidden by Catherine McKenzie on Bette's Bookshelf

This is definitely a novel that will keep you turning pages. The story is told is first person, but three different people – Jeff, who was killed on the way home from work, Claire, his wife and Tish, a co-worker who may or may not be also his lover. I loved the writing style as the author opens each chapter without actually telling you who is speaking – you, the reader, have to figure that out. And, after a chapter or two you will have no trouble doing so. It is a fast-paced book with some surprising twists and turns that leaves the character, and perhaps you also, wondering just how much you really want to know about your spouse.

About Bette Lee Crosby

It is the wit and wisdom of that Southern Mama Crosby brings to her works of fiction; the result is a delightful blend of humor, mystery and romance along with a cast of quirky charters who will steal your heart away. Her work was first recognized in 2006 when she received The National League of American Pen Women Award for a then unpublished manuscript. She has since gone on to win nineteen awards for her work; these include: The Royal Palm Literary Award, the FPA President’s Book Award Gold Medal, Reader’s Favorite Award Gold Medal, and the Reviewer’s Choice Award.