The Secret Ever Keeps

Art has written a beautifully paced book that effortlessly leads the reader through the dubious dealings of Jake, the aging head of the Eastland family. Secret is both intriguing and complex but Art’s composition never leaves the reader out of touch. Ultimately we are reminded that no matter where we are, our past is never far behind and it is always best to turn to face it.

There are layers of meaning to the word `Secret' in the title. On one level, the secret is simply a matter of what's buried beneath the storm-crossed surface of Lake Ontario. If that were the only secret, what we would have here would be a bang-up, swashbuckling, sexy adventure romp.
But there's a great deal more: hidden beneath this well-paced, neatly written action tale is a story of profound family secrets, shame and mis-guided altruism.

As the story progresses, we are lured from the action by the deepening relationships. The suspense becomes less about what's happening below the water and more about what's going on with the characters.
There are layers in the plot too. It zigzags back and forth betweer the present and Prohibition-era America and in and out of three generations of two entangled families. This is an especially appealing summer read and perfect for the beach where you can hear the waves as you read it.

If you are a fan of Michneresque sagas that span decades and are willing to read one that burrows a little bit deeper, The Secret Ever Keeps is for you.



--Lynn Hoffman, author of THE NEW SHORT COURSE IN WINE and
the fun-Michneresque novel bang BANG from Kunati Books. ISBN 9781601640005

I truly enjoy stories that go back into the past of a family to make discoveries. As a reader, it is a delight to journey along with the characters, observing information as they do. Tirrell has done a terrific job of writing such an adventure.

This is that novel, so rich in its writing and characters, that you sink into it easily. Sink into your favorite reading chair, too, and enter what great writers are supposed to do ... take you to new worlds and times and people. Art Tirrell knows his way around Lake Ontario... literately and as one of its competitive sailors ... and I found myself at one point in the book looking at a map so I could see just where this new world for me was. I was watching mobsters and whisky runners fly across Lake Ontario and I witnessed the pull and mystery of deep seated family relationships. And water. What is it about water ... deep water ... that makes a story and character's lives so much more fascinating? So much more dangerous? And then at the end I found my heart thumping at a deep decision our heroine Laurel was about to make. I couldn't believe it. But that's what happens when you enter such a mysterious place. Your heart thumps as secrets are finally revealed and dealt with in ways you cannot imagine. Art Tirrell has written a masterpiece.

--Todd Sentell is the author of the hilariously mean spirited Toonamint of Champions: How LaJuanita Mumps Got to Join Augusta National Golf Club Real Easy