Months after she was contacted by a Hollywood star, Australian author Charlotte McConaghy is now able to share a secret.

The writer's acclaimed eco-thriller, Wild Dark Shore , has been selected as November's pick in actress and producer Reese Witherspoon's popular online book club.

Ms McConaghy, from Armidale on the NSW Northern Tablelands, said she felt as though she was "sitting on nuclear arms codes" while trying to keep the exciting news a secret until it was announced in late October.

"There's been a huge buildup... it was a very, very special day for me," she said.

Reese's Book Club highlights stories that centre around female characters, sending out monthly recommendations to three million social media followers.

Many of the book club's picks have become major hits, with

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