The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle

By: Matt Cain

Narrated by: Simon Vance

In a humorous, charmingly wise novel perfect for fans of Fredrik Backman and TJ Klune, the forced retirement of a shy, closeted postman in northern England creates the opportunity for him to track down his lost love, embrace his true self, connect with his community, and finally experience his life’s great adventure….

Every day, Albert Entwistle makes his way through the streets of his small English town, delivering letters and parcels and returning greetings with a quick wave and a “how do?” Everyone on his route knows Albert, or thinks they do—a man of quiet routines, content to live alone with his cat, Gracie.

Three months before his sixty-fifth birthday, Albert receives a letter from the Royal Mail thanking him for decades of service and stating that he is being forced into retirement. At once, Albert’s simple life unravels. Without the work that fills his days, what will he do? He has no friends, family, or hobbies—just a past he never speaks of, and a lost love that fills him with regret. And so, rather than continue his lonely existence, Albert forms a brave plan to start truly living, to be honest about who he is...and to find George, the man with whom he spent one perfect spring and summer long ago.

One painful yet exhilarating step at a time, Albert begins searching for George and revealing his story to those around him. As he does, something extraordinary happens. Albert finds unlikely allies, new friends, and the courage to help others—even as he seeks the happiness he’s always denied himself.

Beautifully written, funny, and wise, The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle is a book to fall in love with and to be inspired by, one that proves it is never too late to live, to hope, and to love.

©2022 Matt Cain (P)2022 Recorded Books

A very sweet read.

I enjoyed this story. A sweet summer read. Without a spoil alert - it is sometimes great to read something that isn't too complex or to heavy.

It’s never too late

This was such a bittersweet book about lost love and self acceptance.
This is the story of Albert, a lonely closeted man in the verge of retirement and his journey to find, hopefully, his lost love, but along the way he might find himself, friends, and a whole community.

Great story

Was deeply moved by this story. It Brought back so many memories good and bad

A book of hope and love - just gorgeous!

Read with great charm, wit, and empathy throughout for all the characters by Simon Vance. Written so beautifully by Matt Cain. The kind of world we should all want to inhabit. I loved it. Definitely, definitely stay on after the book ends to listen to the interviews between the author and gay men of Albert’s age!

Loved It

This was a warm and fuzzy story with quirky and lovable characters. There were some difficult parts to the story - it was based on facts of the times when Alfred was young. Enjoyed it thoroughly.

I didn’t know what to expect

I really had no idea what this book was about. It needed up being a wonderful story of a lonely man who makes changes in his life and is successful in finding Happiness. It’s so sad to realize how persecuted gay men were, and still are in many places. They are just humans trying to live their lives and be happy and fulfilled. I really enjoyed the story and the performance on audiobooks.

Wonderful story

This story needed to be told and needs to be heard. Excellent audio version. Learned so much

Very touching story of gay youth and reconnection

I found this a touching and heartwarming story, of the challenges of gay life in the 70's, missed opportunities, and redemption. If you are looking for an uncomplicated but enjoyable story, try this one out.

The story was so good!

I enjoyed listening to the narrator. Such a heartwarming story! I loved Albert’s observations of people.

This book should be in your cart or on your wish list!

Very engaging and important story. Wonderful characters, especially Albert. I miss them! Hope there’s a sequel!🤞