The Secret Series
By Halima Khatun, Katrina Kahler and Jon Carter
()
About this series
An 'own voice' women's fiction short story - the diverse read you need.
A mum on a mission to matchmake. A daughter with ideas of her own. A suitor that threatens to tear them apart...
When it comes to arranged marriages, you never hear the perspective of the mother of the 'bride'.
So now it's time.
This short story offers a unique insight into the struggles of someone desperately trying to blend traditional expectations with modern reality, whilst hoping to do the best for her children.
Because no one ever asks mum, it's time we heard her side of the story.
From the author of the Bookbrunch Best Adult Fiction 2021 award-winner The Secret Diary of an Arranged Marriage and The Secret Diary of a Bengali Bridezilla, comes this unique journey from Bangladesh to Britain. Taking you from rural life to suburban displacement, from hardships and heartache, all through the eyes of the woman who saw it all. It's not like any of the other Muslim girl books - it'll make you laugh and cry.
About the author
Halima Khatun is a former journalist (having worked for ITV and the BBC), writer and PR consultant.
Since she was a child, she knew that words would be her thing. With a lifelong passion for writing, Halima wrote her first novel - a coming-of-age children's story - at the age of 12. It was politely turned down by all the major publishing houses. However, proving that writing was indeed her forte, Halima went on to study English and Journalism and was one of just four people in the UK to be granted a BBC scholarship during her postgraduate studies.
She has since written for a number of publications including the HuffPost and Yahoo! Style, and has been featured in the Express, Metro and other national publications. Halima also blogs on lifestyle, food and travel and parenthood on HalimaBobs. This is where she also shares updates on her novels.
Halima is a regular guest on the BBC Asian Network and frequently contributes to the HuffPost.
Titles in the series (7)
- The Secret - Book 1: Mind Magic: The Secret, #1
1
This is an exciting, new and updated version - The Secret, Book 1: Mind Magic When 12-year-old Tessa moves to a new neighborhood, she attempts to befriend the boy who lives next door, a boy of the same age, named Sam. Tessa doesn't know that Sam has a special power, one he must keep secret at all costs. He is not a mind reader, but he is capable of something else, which at times he struggles to control. The other kids think he's strange and they avoid him. But with Tessa's arrival, everything changes. However, Sam isn't the only one who takes an interest in Tessa. The coolest kid in the grade, a boy named Mason Collins begins to notice her as well. When Mason's persistent bullying becomes worse than ever, Sam is forced to teach him a lesson. What happens when Sam goes too far? And does Tessa find out what he is actually capable of? You'll need to read to the end of this exciting and suspenseful book for girls 9-12, a captivating story that you won't want to put down. If you love reading about kids with special powers and you enjoyed my 'Mind Reader' series, then you are sure to enjoy this series too. It is another exciting story full of drama, suspense, romance, boy crushes, friendship issues and much, much more. A fabulous book for girls 9 - 12 that you will not be able to put down. Young teens will also enjoy this story!
- The Secret Citadel: The Secret, #1
1
Has time finally run out for Freelance inventor/freighter captain, Sparrow Dane, and the Nighthawk rebels hiding on the planet, Eridanus? Captain Dane may be in over her head when the government goons show up to capture the rebel bases and kill anyone who resists. Even with her friends, her people are outnumbered and outgunned. Wielding her greatest assets—her wits, her steady hand with a gun, her sneaky ship, and her band of unusually gifted outlaws—may not be enough. Their vow to never retreat, ever, is put to the test. But what the government really want may not be Eridanus back under their thumb. Do Dane's greatest allies come in the form of profiteers? A captain among them owes her big; even so, trusting him may be a big mistake. It's a dire situation for those who are truly The Secret in the Citadel.
- The Secret Diary of an Arranged Marriage: The Secret, #1
1
Winner of the 2021 Bookbrunch Selfie Award for Best Adult I know I'll land a husband… but will he be the one? The Secret Diary of an Arranged Marriage – A Hilarious Romcom That Will Redefine Your Views on Love and Matchmaking! Meet our British-Bengali protagonist, a spirited, acerbic woman on a quest for Mr. Right. But in a world where tradition and modernity collide, her journey to find love takes a delightfully unexpected turn. Young, free and single, our heroine finds herself caught between two worlds, never fully fitting in with her English friends or her Asian community. As time ticks away, she embarks on a dual mission—her own dating adventures and the rollercoaster ride of an arranged marriage orchestrated by her larger-than-life family. From her adorable yet overbearing mum to the army of pretend aunties and profiteering opportunists, everyone becomes invested in finding her the perfect match. With humour and wit, she embraces the chaos of this unconventional approach to love, never quite sure if her ideal partner lies within the boundaries of tradition or if she'll discover something entirely unexpected. The Secret Diary of an Arranged Marriage is a fresh and captivating debut novel by former journalist Halima Khatun. Through her acerbic humor, Khatun explores the complexities of family dynamics, identity, and the eternal search for belonging. This is not your average arranged marriage romance—it's a romcom that breaks barriers and challenges preconceptions. Prepare to be swept away on a laugh-out-loud journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. Get ready to redefine your view of matchmaking and immerse yourself in a story that will leave you smiling long after you've turned the final page. The Secret Diary of an Arranged Marriage is a romcom like no other, defying stereotypes and offering a fresh perspective on the joys and pitfalls of love. Don't miss this heartwarming and hilarious tale. Reader reviews: "This is a great book to read on transport or going on holidays. I finished mine in no time and laughed lots!" "I loved reading this book! Such an enjoyable read which was hilarious at some points but also really highlighted how arranged marriages are viewed from different perspectives, especially in western society. It's hard to find a book that isn't too 'heavy' but also covers important issues and makes you really empathise with the main character. Highly recommend if you're looking for a fun read but something a bit different from the usual chick-lit." About the author Halima Khatun is a former journalist (having worked for ITV and the BBC), writer and PR consultant. With a lifelong passion for writing, Halima wrote her first novel - a coming-of-age children's story - at the age of 12. It was politely turned down by all the major publishing houses. Halima went on to study English and Journalism and was one of just four people in the UK to be granted a BBC scholarship during her postgraduate studies. She has since written for a number of publications including the HuffPost and Yahoo! Style, and has been featured in the Express, Metro and other national publications. Halima also blogs on lifestyle, food and travel and parenthood on HalimaBobs.
- The Secret Society: The Secret, #2
2
The Nighthawk team return to protect the galaxy, and keep it from blowing up. When it comes to redefining tech, gadget girl Sparrow Hawk shows her inventiveness every time she lays her hand to this device or that. Her inventions are both, the very things the Nighthawks need to win, and the source for all their troubles. If either of their enemies, the Black Dagger pirates or the Confederate government, get their hands on what she creates, the tides will turn against the very people she has vowed to protect. With an attack imminent, and a trap set in play, will the Nighthawk team’s counter intel discover the truth of what is coming before it’s too late? Who outside this little band of heroes can be trusted? Bringing in the wrong guy can devastate all they’ve built, destroy all they’ve worked for; the peace they’ve gained for the peaceful.
- The Secret Diary of a Bengali Bridezilla: The Secret, #2
2
And I Thought Finding a Husband Was Hard… Prepare for a laughter-filled journey through the chaos of wedding planning in The Secret Diary of a Bengali Bridezilla, a hilarious diverse romcom that will make you laugh and cry! Join our acerbic protagonist as she dives headfirst into the whirlwind of her big fat Bangladeshi wedding. With just three months to go, a guest list of 600 (including strangers she's never met), and a barrage of unsolicited opinions, she realises that finding a husband was the easy part! As she tackles her wedding to-do list, which includes finding the perfect makeup artist, creating meaningful favors, and outshining her cousin's impending nuptials, she can't help but wonder if she's on the verge of a nervous breakdown. Will her dream man and the perfect wedding day align, or is chaos about to take center stage? Imagine Fleabag and Bridget Jones teaming up over tea and samosas—this uproarious tale is the delightful brainchild of former journalist Halima Khatun. In this hilarious follow-up to The Secret Diary of an Arranged Marriage, Khatun brings her signature British wit to the forefront. Prepare for an adventure that blends cultural traditions, wedding mishaps, and a healthy dose of self-deprecating humour. With every page, you'll find yourself laughing out loud and nodding along as you witness the ups, downs, and unexpected moments of this unforgettable journey. The Secret Diary of an Arranged Marriage is a must-read for anyone seeking a multicultural romcom that transcends boundaries and captures the essence of British wit. About the author Halima Khatun is a former journalist (having worked for ITV and the BBC), writer and PR consultant.Since she was a child, she knew that words would be her thing. With a lifelong passion for writing, Halima wrote her first novel - a coming-of-age children's story - at the age of 12. It was politely turned down by all the major publishing houses. However, proving that writing was indeed her forte, Halima went on to study English and Journalism and was one of just four people in the UK to be granted a BBC scholarship during her postgraduate studies.She has since written for a number of publications including the HuffPost and Yahoo! Style, and has been featured in the Express, Metro and other national publications. Halima also blogs on lifestyle, food and travel and parenthood on HalimaBobs. This is where she also shares updates on her novels.
- The Secret Diary of a Bengali Newlywed: The Secret, #3
3
I found me a man, now I just need to figure out how to live with him… Step into the world of The Secret Diary of a Bengali Newlywed – An Unputdownable Tale of Love, Identity, and the Journey of Starting a New Life! Our acerbic protagonist is about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. With a new husband by her side, a new city to explore, and a set of in-laws with their own set of expectations, she's ready to embrace the next chapter of her life as a Bengali bride. They say that when you marry someone, you marry their entire family. And as she navigates her way through this new phase, she quickly learns the truth behind that statement. After the whirlwind of finding a man and surviving the chaotic planning of her big fat Bangladeshi wedding, she assumes that the newlywed phase will be a walk in the park. But as reality sets in, she realizes that there's much more to this journey than meets the eye. Will she find her place in this new dynamic, or will she face unexpected challenges along the way? In this latest installment of The Secret series, award-winning author Halima Khatun weaves a captivating narrative that delves deep into themes of race, identity, belonging, and the intricacies of family dynamics. With her signature blend of self-deprecation and acerbic humor, Khatun invites readers to join her glass half-full heroine as she navigates the twists and turns of her biggest life changes yet. The Secret Diary of a Bengali Newlywed is a heartfelt exploration of love, self-discovery, and the complexities of cultural expectations. Through the eyes of our relatable protagonist, Khatun takes us on a poignant journey that will resonate with readers from all walks of life. Immerse yourself in this page turner that showcases Halima Khatun's unrivaled ability to capture the essence of human emotions and the triumphs and tribulations of life.
- No One Ever Asks Mum: The Secret
An 'own voice' women's fiction short story - the diverse read you need. A mum on a mission to matchmake. A daughter with ideas of her own. A suitor that threatens to tear them apart... When it comes to arranged marriages, you never hear the perspective of the mother of the 'bride'. So now it's time. This short story offers a unique insight into the struggles of someone desperately trying to blend traditional expectations with modern reality, whilst hoping to do the best for her children. Because no one ever asks mum, it's time we heard her side of the story. From the author of the Bookbrunch Best Adult Fiction 2021 award-winner The Secret Diary of an Arranged Marriage and The Secret Diary of a Bengali Bridezilla, comes this unique journey from Bangladesh to Britain. Taking you from rural life to suburban displacement, from hardships and heartache, all through the eyes of the woman who saw it all. It's not like any of the other Muslim girl books - it'll make you laugh and cry. About the author Halima Khatun is a former journalist (having worked for ITV and the BBC), writer and PR consultant. Since she was a child, she knew that words would be her thing. With a lifelong passion for writing, Halima wrote her first novel - a coming-of-age children's story - at the age of 12. It was politely turned down by all the major publishing houses. However, proving that writing was indeed her forte, Halima went on to study English and Journalism and was one of just four people in the UK to be granted a BBC scholarship during her postgraduate studies. She has since written for a number of publications including the HuffPost and Yahoo! Style, and has been featured in the Express, Metro and other national publications. Halima also blogs on lifestyle, food and travel and parenthood on HalimaBobs. This is where she also shares updates on her novels. Halima is a regular guest on the BBC Asian Network and frequently contributes to the HuffPost.
Halima Khatun
Halima Khatun is a former journalist (having worked for ITV and the BBC), writer and PR consultant. Since she was a child, she knew that words would be her thing. With a lifelong passion for writing, Halima wrote her first novel - a coming-of-age children’s story - at the age of 12. It was politely turned down by all the major publishing houses. However, proving that writing was indeed her forte, Halima went on to study English and journalism and was one of just four people in the UK to be granted a BBC scholarship during her postgraduate studies. She has since written for a number of publications including the HuffPost and Yahoo! Style, and has been featured in the Express, Metro and other national publications. Halima also blogs on lifestyle, food and travel and parenthood on halimabobs.com. This is where she also shares updates on her novels. You can connect with Halima on Facebook here: www.facebook.com/HalimaKhatunAuthor/, or twitter https://twitter.com/halimabobs. Having spent years in London, Halima has resettled in Manchester with her family.
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