The Secrets of Midwives

A Novel

By: Sally Hepworth

Narrated by: Alison Larkin

"With empathy and keen insight, Sally Hepworth delivers a page-turning novel about the complex, lovely, and even heartbreaking relationships between mothers and daughters.—Emily Giffin
Three generations of women
Secrets in the present and from the past
A captivating tale of life, loss, and love…

Neva Bradley, a third-generation midwife, is determined to keep the details surrounding her own pregnancy—including the identity of the baby's father— hidden from her family and co-workers for as long as possible. Her mother, Grace, finds it impossible to let this secret rest. The more Grace prods, the tighter Neva holds to her story, and the more the lifelong differences between private, quiet Neva and open, gregarious Grace strain their relationship. For Floss, Neva's grandmother and a retired midwife, Neva's situation thrusts her back sixty years in time to a secret that eerily mirrors her granddaughter's—one which, if revealed, will have life-changing consequences for them all. As Neva's pregnancy progresses and speculation makes it harder and harder to conceal the truth, Floss wonders if hiding her own truth is ultimately more harmful than telling it. Will these women reveal their secrets and deal with the inevitable consequences? Or are some secrets best kept hidden?

Critic reviews

<p>“<i>The Secrets of Midwives</i> is women's fiction at its finest. Sally Hepworth has written a wonderfully satisfying story about three generations of midwives. It's touching, tender and obviously meticulously researched, giving the reader a fascinating window into the amazing world of midwifery. A delightful read.” —<i>Liane Moriarty, author of The Husband's Secret</i><br><br>“From the first page, I could not put <i>The Secrets of Midwives</i> down. Sally Hepworth delves into family secrets and family love in two different eras, adding mystery and plot twists at a breathless, exhilarating pace. I simply love this book!” —<i>Ann Hood, author of The Knitting Circle</i><br><br>“<i>The Secrets of Midwives</i> is a compelling exploration of life, loss, and love. Family secrets test the bonds between three women -- Neva, her mother Grace, and her grandmother Floss -- as they bring babies into the world and navigate their own complex paths. The story deepens and enlarges as it moves through their varied perspectives to its powerful conclusion.” —<i>Christina Baker Kline, author of The Orphan Train</i><br><br>“With empathy and keen insight, Sally Hepworth delivers a page-turning novel about the complex, lovely, and even heartbreaking relationships between mothers and daughters. <i>The Secrets of Midwives</i> is that rare tale that weaves together the past and the present in a totally absorbing narrative. Sally Hepworth illuminates one of the most important moments in a woman's life--when she becomes a mother--and spins a story that will hold you captivated till the very end.” —<i>Emily Giffin, author of The One and Only</i><br><br>“Hepworth's debut enchants...as three midwives unravel their secrets in the path of a classic New England storm.... combines vibrant and nuanced characters with a breathtaking plot.” —<i>Beatriz Williams, author of A Hundred Summers</i></p>

room for improvement

The book is probably better read than listened too. the narrator made all the characters in their 30s sound like young teenagers and it was difficult to keep track of which characters she was reading. Overall the book has enough twists to keep it interesting.

very believable characters

great book and glimpse into the daily lives and struggles of midwives! This is especially true if you understand the importance and relevance midwives play in childbirth! it's important to note that this book takes place today, not in the past! midwives are still very active in the childbirth community! i prefer them to obgyns any day!

Enter the world of Midwives

Wonderful story with quite calming narrative with great moments of excitement. Loved every single moment

Overacting by character voicing Neva

Just massive overacting. So saccharin that she was simply unrealistic. Floss was great-- tempered given her storyline.

Slightly convoluted, but good.

The first few chapters were hard to follow. The narration was fine for a child's book, but the high-pitched sing-song voice was very annoying and did fit the characters. Most of the time it sounded like a 10 year old reading the book, squeaky and irritating. The entire book would have been much better with better narration.