Watch Catherine Cookson's The Secret

Catherine Cookson's The Secret is a thrilling British drama series available for streaming on BritBox. The show is an adaptation of the novel by the same name written by Catherine Cookson, a popular and prolific British author known for her heartfelt and emotional stories set in the North East of England. The TV adaptation of The Secret stars Joanna Rowden and Adam Ironside, among others.

The Secret is set in the early part of the 20th century in a small village in Northumberland. The story revolves around the Grayson family, who are known to be one of the wealthiest and most respected families in the village. The Graysons are led by the patriarch Edward Grayson, who is played by Adam Ironside. Edward's wife, the matriarch of the family, has passed away, and Edward is left to look after his three children: Robert, Eleanor, and Isobel.

The first episode of The Secret introduces the audience to the Grayson family and their way of life. Robert, the eldest son, is a successful businessman who has inherited his father's shrewdness and business acumen. However, Robert's character is also flawed, as he is often distant and unsympathetic towards his family members. Eleanor, the only daughter of Edward, is a young woman with a quiet confidence and a strong sense of purpose. She is disillusioned with the traditional role of women in society and is determined to make a mark for herself. Isobel, the youngest daughter, is a spirited and headstrong young girl who is still trying to find her place in the world.

The story takes a dramatic turn when a young woman named Anna, played by Joanna Rowden, arrives in the village. Anna is seeking a job as a maid, and the Graysons decide to hire her. However, it soon becomes clear that Anna is hiding a dark secret, and her arrival sets in motion a chain of events that will change the Grayson family forever.

As the series progresses, the secrets that Anna is hiding are slowly revealed, and the Graysons find themselves embroiled in a web of deceit, betrayal, and scandal. The story is full of twists and turns, and the audience is kept on the edge of their seats as they follow the lives of the Graysons and the people around them.

One of the strengths of The Secret is the way in which it explores the themes of family, class, and gender. The show portrays a world that is divided by social class, where the wealthy and powerful hold all the cards, and the poor struggle to make ends meet. However, the show also highlights the determination and resilience of the working-class people, who are determined to find their place in the world and make a better life for themselves.

Another strength of the show is the fantastic cast, who bring the characters to life with skill and nuance. Joanna Rowden is particularly excellent in her role as Anna, the young woman with a hidden past. She brings depth and complexity to the character, and her performance is both captivating and moving.

Overall, Catherine Cookson's The Secret is a compelling and addictive drama series that is sure to keep audiences hooked. The show explores a fascinating period in British history, and the themes that it explores are still relevant today. With its fantastic cast and well-crafted storyline, The Secret is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys quality drama.

Catherine Cookson's The Secret is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between December 21, 2000 and on BritBox