Letter To Keep You Safe by Rachaele Hambleton #LetterToKeepYouSafe @parttimeworkingmummy @booksbyrobinson @littlebrownbookgroup_uk #BookReview

 

A story of heartbreak, love and hope.

Lou has had more than her fair share of heartbreak but she has always managed to keep going...until now.

When her friend Martha ends up in hospital after a brutal attack at the hands of her ex-partner, Lou is struggling to see a way through.

Lou has been a good friend to Martha but she has been keeping secrets. Secrets she has kept to herself for a long time. If Lou had shared more of her story maybe Martha wouldn't be in hospital now.

Wracked with guilt, Lou decides she must write a letter. A letter to tell her truth once and for all. A letter to show Martha that with friends, family and people you love around you there is a way through the darkness. A letter to keep Martha safe.

A Letter To Keep You Safe by Rachaele Hambleton is published today; 26 March 2026 by Robinson/Little Brown. My thanks to the publisher who sent my copy for review. 

This novel explores themes of love, friendship, guilt, and the consequences of silence. Through Lou’s voice, the author  explores the difficulties of surviving heartbreak while still trying to be there for the people you care about. The premise of the story is that Lou is writing a letter to her friend Martha after a brutal act of domestic violence, and this sets the tone for an emotionally challenging narrative.

What makes this book stand out is its raw honesty. It doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of its themes, particularly around abuse and trauma. It’s difficult to read at times, not because of the writing, which is beautifully crafted, but because of how real it feels. The author's prose captures the chaos of human emotion.

The emotional impact is huge. This isn’t a book you can easily distance yourself from. I found myself reflecting and recognising aspects of myself and others I know. Its real strength lies in making you feel seen, while also encouraging empathy.

Importantly, the novel looks at the massive importance of discussing difficult experiences. It reinforces how silence, even when it feels protective, can have unintended consequences. The message is clear but never heavy-handed: speaking up, reaching out, and supporting one another can quite literally save lives.

While the pacing occasionally feels slow due to its introspective nature, it ultimately suits the story being told. A Letter to Keep You Safe isn’t meant to be rushed.

A powerful, compassionate read that stays with you. Highly recommended.

Rachaele Hambleton, aka Part-Time Working Mummy, is a four times Sunday Times bestselling author and a popular parenting personality online, she also runs REBL clothing.

Between her & her husband Josh they have six children. Her successful social media platforms document the highs and lows of life as a blended family.

As well as writing & raising children, Rachaele fights hard for awareness of domestic abuse. In 2021, Rachaele opened Patchwork House women's centre, which is a safe hub to support vulnerable families in Torbay.

Instagram @parttimeworkingmummy