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She Can... #2
She Can Tell
When a terrible accident abruptly ends her riding career, Rachel Parker returns to Pennsylvania to rebuild her family’s horse farm. But her welcome home is anything but warm. Her sister’s abusive husband and a violent vandal threaten Rachel’s new business and her life. Someone is systematically trying to destroy her. Someone who knows private things about her. Someone who’s been watching her. Now Rachel must face the fact that the sins of her carefully hidden past have returned to haunt her… Police Chief Mike O’Connell never had trouble drawing the line between his personal life and his job―until he met Rachel Parker. Mike’s investigation uncovers a shocking number of secrets and suspects. But the stalker’s escalating violence convinces him he doesn’t have much time to sort through it all. Whoever is watching Rachel wants her dead. Mike and Rachel race to untangle a web of deceit and lies that stretches two decades into the past―before her stalker strikes again.
341 pages, Paperback
First published December 4, 2012
5061 people are currently reading
2939 people want to read
About the author
Melinda Leigh
48 books21.8k followers#1 Wall Street Journal and #1 Amazon bestselling author Melinda Leigh is a fully recovered banker who learned that writing books is way more fun than analyzing financial statements. Melinda’s debut novel, SHE CAN RUN, was nominated for Best First Novel by the International Thriller Writers. Since then, she has garnered numerous writing accolades, including two RITA® Award nominations and an induction into the NJ Romance Writers Hall of Fame. Her novels have sold more than 15 million copies across the world. Melinda loves martial arts, rescue dogs, and sea turtles.
WEBSITE: https://www.melindaleigh.com/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/melindaleighauthorpage/
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/MelindaLeigh1
WEBSITE: https://www.melindaleigh.com/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/melindaleighauthorpage/
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/MelindaLeigh1
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 499 reviews
April 8, 2017
I liked this romantic suspense that had its exciting moments but it also had parts that were a little slow moving. I guessed who the bad guy was pretty quick. I read this series out of order and future books are much more exciting. Horsewoman Rachel is trying to rescue her sister from an abusive husband when police chief Mike arrives on the scene.
December 17, 2012
After really loving the first novel in the "Can Tell" series, I was really looking forward to reading this new one. What a disappointement. I had a real problem liking the heroine in the novel, Rachel. Half-way thru I found her to be irritating. There's nothing wrong with a strong female lead, but sometimes it's just overkill. I can never figure out why men would think that's endearing; the fact that she can do everything by herself; doesn't need any help; doesn't need to go to the hospital after being seriously hurt. Then they turn around and wish they can be there for them. Then of course the male lead declares his love for her. Really? A little hard to believe. There certainly wasn't any character development in this novel. The fact that I figured out who the bad guy was didn't help either. The fact that Rachel never remembered who the killer was when she was little didn't make sense. She never told him when he kidnapped her. He just assumed she saw him. Then there's the relationship the killer had with Rachel's mother that didn't really make sense either. Then there's her relationship with her father which was left in limbo. Like I mentioned, definitely not as good as the first one, "She Can Run."
February 7, 2017
3.5 Stars
Much better than the first in the series, the suspense is still a little weak as obvious who the bad guy was....Hopefully the next will be even better!
Much better than the first in the series, the suspense is still a little weak as obvious who the bad guy was....Hopefully the next will be even better!
December 9, 2025
When you have a heroine who is prickly and stubborn and reckless and a hero who is bossy and presumptuous and controlling, you have a match made in Romantic Suspense Heaven. These two absolutely deserve each other! Their fireworks were a sight to behold, and the plot wasn't so bad either. The baddie was a mystery till very near the end and that is just how I like it. I won't say that this book wasn't without its' problems, but for an early work by Melinda Leigh, it was pretty great. The romance scenes were better than anything she has written lately.
Rachel Parker loves her sister, Sarah, and will do anything, even put herself in harm's way, to protect her and her children, two adorable little girls. Rachel has returned to turn her grandfather's Pennsylvania farm into an equestrian center after a career ending accident. What she finds is that her sister is married to an abusive asswipe and when Sarah calls, Rachel comes and ends up in the middle of their domestic dispute. This is in addition to the vandal who has been terrorizing her property.
Short staffed and short on sleep is never a good combo when responding to a domestic disturbance, but Police Chief Mike O’Connell finds himself right in the middle and has his objectivity sorely challenged when he finds Sarah unconscious, her sister, Rachel, bleeding and Troy, the town's Golden Boy, on the floor clutching his family jewels. You kinda have to cheer a woman who can put down a man twice her size.
Mike is drawn to Rachel in a way he never has been drawn to a woman before. Totally unprofessional and he knows it but is unable to resist especially when a stalker is making more and more dangerous moves against her and her property. As Rachel and Mike attempt to unravel why she is a target, long buried secrets are uncovered and a decades old murder is revealed which puts Rachel's life and Mike's job at risk.
Rachel Parker loves her sister, Sarah, and will do anything, even put herself in harm's way, to protect her and her children, two adorable little girls. Rachel has returned to turn her grandfather's Pennsylvania farm into an equestrian center after a career ending accident. What she finds is that her sister is married to an abusive asswipe and when Sarah calls, Rachel comes and ends up in the middle of their domestic dispute. This is in addition to the vandal who has been terrorizing her property.
Short staffed and short on sleep is never a good combo when responding to a domestic disturbance, but Police Chief Mike O’Connell finds himself right in the middle and has his objectivity sorely challenged when he finds Sarah unconscious, her sister, Rachel, bleeding and Troy, the town's Golden Boy, on the floor clutching his family jewels. You kinda have to cheer a woman who can put down a man twice her size.
Mike is drawn to Rachel in a way he never has been drawn to a woman before. Totally unprofessional and he knows it but is unable to resist especially when a stalker is making more and more dangerous moves against her and her property. As Rachel and Mike attempt to unravel why she is a target, long buried secrets are uncovered and a decades old murder is revealed which puts Rachel's life and Mike's job at risk.
November 19, 2018
I have similar thoughts regarding this one as the first one of the series. Given that there is a stalker lurking about who's trying to hurt/kill the h, there's too much emphasis on physical attraction and sex. It's less in your face than the first book, but still too prevalent and annoying to ignore.
This town does not seem like a place where anyone should live. There are too many mean drunks, sexually assaulting creeps, and murderers. Seriously. The h is attacked by three separate people, some of them more than once. She's constantly being hurt by others, hurting herself, or being hurt in accidents. Once I became inured to the suffering of one of the MCs, it was hard to stay interested in the story as a whole.
I like that the H is a genuinely good guy. He isn't a manho and there is absolutely no OP drama in this book. The cameo appearances of the other characters from the first book are a nice touch as well. All in all, I may continue with this series, but only when I need a break from another genre or author. These stories don't seem strong enough on their own.
This town does not seem like a place where anyone should live. There are too many mean drunks, sexually assaulting creeps, and murderers. Seriously. The h is attacked by three separate people, some of them more than once. She's constantly being hurt by others, hurting herself, or being hurt in accidents. Once I became inured to the suffering of one of the MCs, it was hard to stay interested in the story as a whole.
I like that the H is a genuinely good guy. He isn't a manho and there is absolutely no OP drama in this book. The cameo appearances of the other characters from the first book are a nice touch as well. All in all, I may continue with this series, but only when I need a break from another genre or author. These stories don't seem strong enough on their own.
April 19, 2019
This was overall a nice, light, one time read, although the book didn’t ensnare my attention. The writing flows well and the main characters were nice.
Rachel has returned to her hometown and to a sister wo really needs her, but not everyone is happy to see her, and someone is willing to do a lot to ensure she is gone. Cue in a subplot about corruption and dodgy dealings and it’s clear the Police Chief will have a lot on his hands.
Police chief Michael (Mike) O’Connell is determined to protect his community, and sharply focused on keeping Rachel and her family safe. The intense connection between Mike and Rachel is one that will cause trouble but the sparks continue to fly, even as they both, resist. Mike’s resistance has to do with his ethics as an officer and the conflict of interest that manifests since he is investigating her case. Rachel in contrast has a wall up and doesn’t want to let anyone in, feeling she can never give equally if she were to enter into a relationship with Mike.
Sarah’s husband Troy was a horrid toad, and in all honesty, I wasn’t happy with how things concluded with him.
Triggers:
Acquired via KU.
Rachel has returned to her hometown and to a sister wo really needs her, but not everyone is happy to see her, and someone is willing to do a lot to ensure she is gone. Cue in a subplot about corruption and dodgy dealings and it’s clear the Police Chief will have a lot on his hands.
Police chief Michael (Mike) O’Connell is determined to protect his community, and sharply focused on keeping Rachel and her family safe. The intense connection between Mike and Rachel is one that will cause trouble but the sparks continue to fly, even as they both, resist. Mike’s resistance has to do with his ethics as an officer and the conflict of interest that manifests since he is investigating her case. Rachel in contrast has a wall up and doesn’t want to let anyone in, feeling she can never give equally if she were to enter into a relationship with Mike.
Sarah’s husband Troy was a horrid toad, and in all honesty, I wasn’t happy with how things concluded with him.
Triggers:
Acquired via KU.
May 21, 2019
An enjoyable read keeped you guessing with different thing in the story to hold your interest till the end.
June 24, 2017
I liked She Can Tell better than the first book in the series. Yes, it was easy to tell who the "bad guy" was but the plot was well paced and kept me wanting to read until I finished. I liked both Rachel and MIke and thought their attraction and romance felt real. (Although I really didn't need Rachel referring to Mike as "He Man". It seemed a bit much and a little too corny for me.)
Rachel was a strong heroine, although emotionally unavailable until Mike, which I prefer. She is being threatened and watched. The reference to her stalker by the story telling as "The Watcher" felt a little old as I've read a number of books with a "Watcher". Still this plot line was done nicely and I enjoyed her story. The secondary story of Rachel's sister and her kids blended into the main story of Rachel being threatened.
I intend to continue reading this series.
Rachel was a strong heroine, although emotionally unavailable until Mike, which I prefer. She is being threatened and watched. The reference to her stalker by the story telling as "The Watcher" felt a little old as I've read a number of books with a "Watcher". Still this plot line was done nicely and I enjoyed her story. The secondary story of Rachel's sister and her kids blended into the main story of Rachel being threatened.
I intend to continue reading this series.
November 14, 2012
Twenty-five years ago, a mysterious "watcher" kills a man named Harry and disposes of his body.
Now, in the present day and in the same township, a woman has returned to Pennsylvania to rebuild the family horse farm. With her own baggage, secrets, fears, and vulnerabilities, Rachel Parker is determined to start over and carve out a place for herself.
But almost immediately, vandalism and graffiti and frightening messages threaten her world, while nearby, her sister Sarah's husband has turned abusive and she reaches out for Rachel's help.
A Watcher keeps a close eye on Rachel even as his threats escalate.
Police Chief Mike O'Connell is determined to protect Rachel, Sarah, and everyone else in the community, but he soon realizes that the intense connection that is developing between him and Rachel could risk his position and his own vulnerable heart.
Who is so afraid of what Rachel might have seen twenty-five years before? What person close to her, who knows every one of her secret fears could be moving in for the kill? How will Mike protect her when a vicious town councilman does everything in his power to thwart him? What is the councilman hiding, and how far will he go to keep control?
As "She Can Tell" picks up the pace, moving quickly toward its exciting conclusion, we become invested in the characters, rooting for the capture of the stalker, while savoring the moments between each of them. I enjoyed the dialogue, which had moments of humor while showing us the three-dimensional personalities of Rachel and Mike. They felt like people I wanted to know and believe in.
I liked that I couldn't quite figure out which of the possible characters was The Watcher. While I had it narrowed down, I was still stunned at the reveal.
Another five star read from the talented Melinda Leigh. Recommended for those who like romantic suspense and enjoy the in-depth characterizations that are her signature style. I can't wait for the next one!
Now, in the present day and in the same township, a woman has returned to Pennsylvania to rebuild the family horse farm. With her own baggage, secrets, fears, and vulnerabilities, Rachel Parker is determined to start over and carve out a place for herself.
But almost immediately, vandalism and graffiti and frightening messages threaten her world, while nearby, her sister Sarah's husband has turned abusive and she reaches out for Rachel's help.
A Watcher keeps a close eye on Rachel even as his threats escalate.
Police Chief Mike O'Connell is determined to protect Rachel, Sarah, and everyone else in the community, but he soon realizes that the intense connection that is developing between him and Rachel could risk his position and his own vulnerable heart.
Who is so afraid of what Rachel might have seen twenty-five years before? What person close to her, who knows every one of her secret fears could be moving in for the kill? How will Mike protect her when a vicious town councilman does everything in his power to thwart him? What is the councilman hiding, and how far will he go to keep control?
As "She Can Tell" picks up the pace, moving quickly toward its exciting conclusion, we become invested in the characters, rooting for the capture of the stalker, while savoring the moments between each of them. I enjoyed the dialogue, which had moments of humor while showing us the three-dimensional personalities of Rachel and Mike. They felt like people I wanted to know and believe in.
I liked that I couldn't quite figure out which of the possible characters was The Watcher. While I had it narrowed down, I was still stunned at the reveal.
Another five star read from the talented Melinda Leigh. Recommended for those who like romantic suspense and enjoy the in-depth characterizations that are her signature style. I can't wait for the next one!
March 1, 2023
It seems like with this one if it can go wrong it will for Rachel. It's a good thing that the town police chief, Mike is smitten with her and does what he can to protect her. It's crazy all the things going on, the amount so slimy scummy people. By the end of the book, things are looking up for Rachel, a good thing because she and Mike deserve some happiness!
October 14, 2012
Another great suspenseful novel full of multiple story lines that all converge together with a great supporting cast in a small northeastern Pennsylvania town.
Rachel Parker has returned home 7 years after running away. She has come back to try and turn her grandfather’s farm into a horse training and breading business after her career ended after being thrown from a horse. Not long after arriving bad things start happening on the ranch. An attempted break in and threatening messages painted on her barn. She just assumes they are from her brother in law who has turned into a mean abusive drunk. She is also suffering from guilt for just leaving town after her mother’s funeral which in her eyes forced her sister to marry young to get away from their father. After getting a call from her sister to come and get her and her kids and rescue them from him she ends up having to fight for her life after finding her sister beaten and unconscious. She is rescued by the Police Chief Mike O’Connell. They are both blindsided by their attraction but carry a lot of baggage that prevents either from acting on it at first.
Mike still carries guilt for not catching a serial killer that had lived right under is nose. This guilt has has turned into an insane need to protect his town, and there are many weird things going on in town. When his growing feelings for Rachel turns into a conflict of interest and bring him under the radar of some corrupt city council members , one of which who wants to get him fired, he has to decide what’s more important.
There are multiple mysteries going on at the same time that all converge by the end of the book. The author does a great job of keeping your interest in all of these and wondering what is really going on. There was also a greater sense of camaraderie with the town in this one. Lots of great secondary characters and we get to see how Jack and Elizabeth from the first book are doing. I am looking forward to many more books from this author.
(arc was provided by author for an honest review)
Rachel Parker has returned home 7 years after running away. She has come back to try and turn her grandfather’s farm into a horse training and breading business after her career ended after being thrown from a horse. Not long after arriving bad things start happening on the ranch. An attempted break in and threatening messages painted on her barn. She just assumes they are from her brother in law who has turned into a mean abusive drunk. She is also suffering from guilt for just leaving town after her mother’s funeral which in her eyes forced her sister to marry young to get away from their father. After getting a call from her sister to come and get her and her kids and rescue them from him she ends up having to fight for her life after finding her sister beaten and unconscious. She is rescued by the Police Chief Mike O’Connell. They are both blindsided by their attraction but carry a lot of baggage that prevents either from acting on it at first.
Mike still carries guilt for not catching a serial killer that had lived right under is nose. This guilt has has turned into an insane need to protect his town, and there are many weird things going on in town. When his growing feelings for Rachel turns into a conflict of interest and bring him under the radar of some corrupt city council members , one of which who wants to get him fired, he has to decide what’s more important.
There are multiple mysteries going on at the same time that all converge by the end of the book. The author does a great job of keeping your interest in all of these and wondering what is really going on. There was also a greater sense of camaraderie with the town in this one. Lots of great secondary characters and we get to see how Jack and Elizabeth from the first book are doing. I am looking forward to many more books from this author.
(arc was provided by author for an honest review)
January 12, 2023
3.5 stars.
I didn’t enjoy this as much as the first one. I always struggle a little bit with very tough heroines. I need some vulnerability to be able to relate.
Also, I’m a massive fan of page-turning action, but so much happened to the heroine it was a tiny bit too much, which took away some of the believability.
Despite those issues, I’m really enjoying the style of Leigh’s writing and am delighted there are so many books in her repertoire to read.
I didn’t enjoy this as much as the first one. I always struggle a little bit with very tough heroines. I need some vulnerability to be able to relate.
Also, I’m a massive fan of page-turning action, but so much happened to the heroine it was a tiny bit too much, which took away some of the believability.
Despite those issues, I’m really enjoying the style of Leigh’s writing and am delighted there are so many books in her repertoire to read.
September 6, 2023
This was an unremarkable story where you had to suspend your belief. A lot of things don’t add up. But it worked as a listen to pass a long car ride.
July 17, 2018
This one was really good as well :)
December 4, 2012
Twenty-five years ago in Northeastern Pennsylvania, a mysterious man, the "Watcher," liked to watch people and see the secret, private things they did when they thought they were alone. He has been watching a man named Harry Boyle, who he felt had betrayed him. He stabs Harry to death, sets the man's house on fire, and disposes the body. But there was a witness to the disposal, a little girl named Rachel Parker.
Fast-forward to the present day, horse boarder/trainer and riding instructor Rachel Parker returns to rebuild her family's horse farm in Westbury, Pennsylvania after an injury has ended her riding career. But not everyone is happy that she has returned home: the farm is vandalized, and a stalker leaves ominous warnings telling her to leave town scrawled on the walls of the barn, which leaves her scared. And just when you think what else could happen, Rachel's younger sister Sarah Mitchell is in an abusive marriage, and she reaches out to Rachel for help.
As the threats escalate, Westbury Police Chief Mike O'Connor is determined to protect Rachel, her family and his community. An intense attraction between Rachel and Mike is ignited, but secrets from the past have a way of making things become complicated, dangerous and potentially life-threatening for them.
Just when you think author Melinda Leigh couldn't top the heart-stopping riveting romantic suspense drama she created in She Can Run, she pulls out another ace from her sleeve and weaves another romantic suspense thriller in She Can Tell, the second book of the She Can series.
This fast paced riveting thriller is told in the third person narrative with alternating character points of view that draws the reader in and keeps them guessing what will happen next. Rich in detail and vivid description of the scenic northeastern Pennsylvania farm country setting, the reader is transported to the picturesque small town of Westbury, where a stalker/murderer is on the loose and buried secrets are coming back to haunt Rachel and Mike. I love the author's style of writing, the intensity of the drama, romance and suspense is gripping, and the multitude of twists and turns makes you hold your breath and keeps you sitting on the edge of your seat as you turn the pages. I love the mixture of romance and suspense, it provides a nice balance to the story, and it fills all the reader's senses while taking them on one heck of thrilling roller coaster ride.
I loved how the character development of Rachel and Mike progresses as the story unfolds. Both are realistic and complex people who the reader can relate to. They draw you into their lives and you can't help but feel for them as the intensity of the threats build, as well as the romance, electricity and passion that develops between them. With engaging and humorous dialogue and interactions; a great secondary cast of characters that add to the storyline, including the cameo appearances of some of the characters from She Can Run; and a wonderful sense of suspense and surprise that keeps the identity of the Watcher a secret until the end; makes She Can Tell a mesmerizing story that romantic suspense fans are sure to love!
Each book in the She Can series can be read as a stand alone story. Be sure to look for the upcoming release of the third book in the series, She Can Scream.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC edition of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review, and for hosting a virtual book release event on my book review blog site.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
Fast-forward to the present day, horse boarder/trainer and riding instructor Rachel Parker returns to rebuild her family's horse farm in Westbury, Pennsylvania after an injury has ended her riding career. But not everyone is happy that she has returned home: the farm is vandalized, and a stalker leaves ominous warnings telling her to leave town scrawled on the walls of the barn, which leaves her scared. And just when you think what else could happen, Rachel's younger sister Sarah Mitchell is in an abusive marriage, and she reaches out to Rachel for help.
As the threats escalate, Westbury Police Chief Mike O'Connor is determined to protect Rachel, her family and his community. An intense attraction between Rachel and Mike is ignited, but secrets from the past have a way of making things become complicated, dangerous and potentially life-threatening for them.
Just when you think author Melinda Leigh couldn't top the heart-stopping riveting romantic suspense drama she created in She Can Run, she pulls out another ace from her sleeve and weaves another romantic suspense thriller in She Can Tell, the second book of the She Can series.
This fast paced riveting thriller is told in the third person narrative with alternating character points of view that draws the reader in and keeps them guessing what will happen next. Rich in detail and vivid description of the scenic northeastern Pennsylvania farm country setting, the reader is transported to the picturesque small town of Westbury, where a stalker/murderer is on the loose and buried secrets are coming back to haunt Rachel and Mike. I love the author's style of writing, the intensity of the drama, romance and suspense is gripping, and the multitude of twists and turns makes you hold your breath and keeps you sitting on the edge of your seat as you turn the pages. I love the mixture of romance and suspense, it provides a nice balance to the story, and it fills all the reader's senses while taking them on one heck of thrilling roller coaster ride.
I loved how the character development of Rachel and Mike progresses as the story unfolds. Both are realistic and complex people who the reader can relate to. They draw you into their lives and you can't help but feel for them as the intensity of the threats build, as well as the romance, electricity and passion that develops between them. With engaging and humorous dialogue and interactions; a great secondary cast of characters that add to the storyline, including the cameo appearances of some of the characters from She Can Run; and a wonderful sense of suspense and surprise that keeps the identity of the Watcher a secret until the end; makes She Can Tell a mesmerizing story that romantic suspense fans are sure to love!
Each book in the She Can series can be read as a stand alone story. Be sure to look for the upcoming release of the third book in the series, She Can Scream.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC edition of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review, and for hosting a virtual book release event on my book review blog site.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
February 14, 2024
3.5 Stars
She Can Tell was a great follow-up to She Can Run following a side character from that book.
After an accident ends her riding career, Rachel Parker returns home to Pennsylvania to rebuild her life. Her plan is to restart her family's horse farm but her sister's abusive husband threatens Rachel and her new business. When someone vandalizes her barn, Rachel turns to Police Chief Mike O’Connell for help. Mike has always been able to separate his personal life from his job, that is until he meets Rachel. As Mike investigates the increasing number of threats against Rachel, he realizes this is more than petty threats. Someone is stalking Rachel and they're not going to stop until she's dead.
She Can Tell opens twenty-five years ago with the murder of a man by an unknown person. We then jump forward to Rachel discovering vandalism on her barn before she receives a call from her sister that her husband is attacking her. Events spiral from there and we learn the extent of harassment Rachel has been dealing with which is when Mike gets involved. I found the stalker storyline to be quite interesting and I immediately wanted to know who this Watcher person was and why they were after Rachel. The suspense elements are well done and the final confrontation with the killer was great. I did ultimately guess the killer's identity pretty early on but I still enjoyed watching the characters figure it out.
The romance between Rachel and Mike starts off very slow as there's a lot going on with the threats against Rachel. The attraction is there right away but neither of them is willing to start anything so they try to ignore it. The two spend quite a bit of time together as Mike tries to work out who is threatening Rachel. While I was enjoying the pair's romance, it was simply too slow for me and I felt there wasn't enough time for it to develop properly. It took until almost three-quarters of the way through the book for anything to really happen between them which made it difficult to get fully invested.
Overall She Can Tell was an enjoyable read and I'm looking forward to picking up the next book in the series, She Can Scream, soon.
She Can Tell was a great follow-up to She Can Run following a side character from that book.
After an accident ends her riding career, Rachel Parker returns home to Pennsylvania to rebuild her life. Her plan is to restart her family's horse farm but her sister's abusive husband threatens Rachel and her new business. When someone vandalizes her barn, Rachel turns to Police Chief Mike O’Connell for help. Mike has always been able to separate his personal life from his job, that is until he meets Rachel. As Mike investigates the increasing number of threats against Rachel, he realizes this is more than petty threats. Someone is stalking Rachel and they're not going to stop until she's dead.
She Can Tell opens twenty-five years ago with the murder of a man by an unknown person. We then jump forward to Rachel discovering vandalism on her barn before she receives a call from her sister that her husband is attacking her. Events spiral from there and we learn the extent of harassment Rachel has been dealing with which is when Mike gets involved. I found the stalker storyline to be quite interesting and I immediately wanted to know who this Watcher person was and why they were after Rachel. The suspense elements are well done and the final confrontation with the killer was great. I did ultimately guess the killer's identity pretty early on but I still enjoyed watching the characters figure it out.
The romance between Rachel and Mike starts off very slow as there's a lot going on with the threats against Rachel. The attraction is there right away but neither of them is willing to start anything so they try to ignore it. The two spend quite a bit of time together as Mike tries to work out who is threatening Rachel. While I was enjoying the pair's romance, it was simply too slow for me and I felt there wasn't enough time for it to develop properly. It took until almost three-quarters of the way through the book for anything to really happen between them which made it difficult to get fully invested.
Overall She Can Tell was an enjoyable read and I'm looking forward to picking up the next book in the series, She Can Scream, soon.
December 24, 2014
3.5
There were things about this novel that I really appreciated, some things that feel short and some things that bothered me. Overall, I enjoyed the story, I like this author, I will continue with this series.
Things that bothered me:
The blatant corruption. Now, I'm not so naive as to believe these things don't happen, I know they do, but damn, can you at least try to hide it? Its as if forensics, witness statements and basic police procedures cannot hold up next to the word of a couple of rich guys. I had some trouble believing these small town fries could have that much power.
Rachel. Oh dear, what to say about Rachel. Look, I like strong women, I do, but there is a point where you take it too far and you are no longer being strong and independent, but have crossed over into obstinate and stupid land. She crossed. A few times.
Things that fell flat
The fear. In stalker stories, especially those that include the pov of said stalker, I expect to be significantly creeped out, like it should be added to my "turn on the lights, hide under the covers" shelf. This sadly did not scare me. I was creeped out at parts and grossed out at others, but never really scared.
The romance. Oh my did I want to feel this, mostly because I consider Mike to be fantastically fantastic, but it fell short for me also. I blame Rachel, she never seemed as invested, or maybe I simply wasn't as invested in her.
Things I appreciated
A large suspect pool. I'm suspicious of everyone by nature, so I appreciate a book that makes that personality flaw seem justifiable. I did figure it out at one point, but it took me a good while to get there, I waffled. I like something I can't immediately figure out. There were still a couple of surprises in there.
Mike wasn't super-man super-cop. He had failed, he struggled, he pushed himself too hard, he had issues. I adored him!
Rachel's fear of turning into her mother. That was probably the most genuine thing I got from her and pretty much the only thing that garnered any sympathy from me.
Overall, worth the read, I will read more from this author and continue the series. For fans of this genre, I would also recommend Cynthia Eden.
There were things about this novel that I really appreciated, some things that feel short and some things that bothered me. Overall, I enjoyed the story, I like this author, I will continue with this series.
Things that bothered me:
The blatant corruption. Now, I'm not so naive as to believe these things don't happen, I know they do, but damn, can you at least try to hide it? Its as if forensics, witness statements and basic police procedures cannot hold up next to the word of a couple of rich guys. I had some trouble believing these small town fries could have that much power.
Rachel. Oh dear, what to say about Rachel. Look, I like strong women, I do, but there is a point where you take it too far and you are no longer being strong and independent, but have crossed over into obstinate and stupid land. She crossed. A few times.
Things that fell flat
The fear. In stalker stories, especially those that include the pov of said stalker, I expect to be significantly creeped out, like it should be added to my "turn on the lights, hide under the covers" shelf. This sadly did not scare me. I was creeped out at parts and grossed out at others, but never really scared.
The romance. Oh my did I want to feel this, mostly because I consider Mike to be fantastically fantastic, but it fell short for me also. I blame Rachel, she never seemed as invested, or maybe I simply wasn't as invested in her.
Things I appreciated
A large suspect pool. I'm suspicious of everyone by nature, so I appreciate a book that makes that personality flaw seem justifiable. I did figure it out at one point, but it took me a good while to get there, I waffled. I like something I can't immediately figure out. There were still a couple of surprises in there.
Mike wasn't super-man super-cop. He had failed, he struggled, he pushed himself too hard, he had issues. I adored him!
Rachel's fear of turning into her mother. That was probably the most genuine thing I got from her and pretty much the only thing that garnered any sympathy from me.
Overall, worth the read, I will read more from this author and continue the series. For fans of this genre, I would also recommend Cynthia Eden.
January 14, 2013
This book combines mystery and romance. Someone is out to get Rachel Parker and drive her out of business. Since there is more than one possible candidate, the task of the local police chief, Mike O’Connell, is to figure out who it is before anything terminal happens to Miss Parker.There is also a sub-plot to do with dodgy business dealings, which means that O’Connell’s role as chief of police is under threat.
The mystery element is handled well. The complicating factor is that O’Connell and Rachel fall for each other. This results in two types of scene: those earlier in the book where the feelings of each for the other are described, and those later in the book where the reader is faced with detailed accounts of sexual congress. Admitting that I am not in the natural target audience for this book, I find the romantic writing comic and the straight sex tedious. Since I am not allowed to quote from an uncorrected proof, I cannot illustrate what I mean.
I have seldom read a book where the words ‘growled’ and ‘growling’ have occurred so often. If Leigh is to be believed, this is what our stomachs do whenever we are hungry.
Despite these comments, this author has talent. Rachel runs a stable and the author brings this out without going over the top. She sketches it in, which is all this needed. She is also good on the shady business deal part of the plot. Where romance is not involved, some of the dialogue is excellent. But what impressed me most was her use of physical detail to make the reader feel present at the scene.
The mystery element is handled well. The complicating factor is that O’Connell and Rachel fall for each other. This results in two types of scene: those earlier in the book where the feelings of each for the other are described, and those later in the book where the reader is faced with detailed accounts of sexual congress. Admitting that I am not in the natural target audience for this book, I find the romantic writing comic and the straight sex tedious. Since I am not allowed to quote from an uncorrected proof, I cannot illustrate what I mean.
I have seldom read a book where the words ‘growled’ and ‘growling’ have occurred so often. If Leigh is to be believed, this is what our stomachs do whenever we are hungry.
Despite these comments, this author has talent. Rachel runs a stable and the author brings this out without going over the top. She sketches it in, which is all this needed. She is also good on the shady business deal part of the plot. Where romance is not involved, some of the dialogue is excellent. But what impressed me most was her use of physical detail to make the reader feel present at the scene.
May 25, 2013
Landing in a racing pile of pounding hooves put an end to Rachel Parkers riding career. She returns to small town Pennsylvania to turn her grandfather's dilapidated farm into a profitable horse farm. Rachel had inherited the farm years ago but never done a thing with it. Now she realizes just how much work the house, barn and property needs. As if that weren't enough to stress her out, sister Sarah is in an abusive marriage. Rachel rescues her and her daughters but not before Sarah's husband attempts to beat the tar out of her. Adding to all the issues is the fact that she has a stalker. Is it a friend of Troy's, Sarah's ex, getting vengeance? Or is someone else after her?
Police Chief Mike O'Connell has more than enough troubles of his own. He's suffering from residual guilt regarding a serial killer recently operating in his area. Mike had been unable to catch the guy and someone else had to step in and deal with it (She Can Run). His job is on the line because one of the council members has taken an inexplicable dislike to him. And now he finds himself for the first time ever tangled into a victim's life. Rachel Parker has him thinking of her night and day and he wonders just how effective he can be in doing his job if he can't get his mind off her.
I enjoyed this book while reading it but know by next week I will struggle to remember the details. A large part of that is because nothing sets this book apart from the crowd.
Police Chief Mike O'Connell has more than enough troubles of his own. He's suffering from residual guilt regarding a serial killer recently operating in his area. Mike had been unable to catch the guy and someone else had to step in and deal with it (She Can Run). His job is on the line because one of the council members has taken an inexplicable dislike to him. And now he finds himself for the first time ever tangled into a victim's life. Rachel Parker has him thinking of her night and day and he wonders just how effective he can be in doing his job if he can't get his mind off her.
I enjoyed this book while reading it but know by next week I will struggle to remember the details. A large part of that is because nothing sets this book apart from the crowd.
December 27, 2012
Wow this book was really good. The suspense of the story had me turning each page, trying to figure out who was after Rachel. I loved the way both Mike, and Rachel felt strong emotions to one another from the start, but didn't act upon them till latter on in the story line. This book was filled with lots of action that kept me holding my breath at times. I'm going to give you a sample of the book below
taken from chapter 27
She sprinted to the barn. Her foot skidded on the slick grass, but she scrambled back to her feet. On the way past the water trough, she dunked her jacket before tugging it on. An animal's high pitched scream lifted the hair on her nape. Visions of trapped animals burning alive played in her mind. Her stomach clenched. She had to save them.
taken from chapter 27
She sprinted to the barn. Her foot skidded on the slick grass, but she scrambled back to her feet. On the way past the water trough, she dunked her jacket before tugging it on. An animal's high pitched scream lifted the hair on her nape. Visions of trapped animals burning alive played in her mind. Her stomach clenched. She had to save them.
August 16, 2021
Not for me
If there's one thing that can put me off a book more than anything it's when authors needlessly use the word cock! It's unwarranted and a good author can tell a good story without the need of this word. A reasonably good book spoiled by the continued dragging out of chapters about sex. Sorry but I like a thriller to be a thriller.
If there's one thing that can put me off a book more than anything it's when authors needlessly use the word cock! It's unwarranted and a good author can tell a good story without the need of this word. A reasonably good book spoiled by the continued dragging out of chapters about sex. Sorry but I like a thriller to be a thriller.
January 7, 2013
Just discovered there is actually a genre called romance-suspense. Sadly, it is not really my cup of tea!
August 12, 2017
Two-haiku review:
Someone's after her
Police chief tries to protect
And he's really hot
Four-and-a-half stars
I figured out the bad guy
Loved the characters
Someone's after her
Police chief tries to protect
And he's really hot
Four-and-a-half stars
I figured out the bad guy
Loved the characters
February 4, 2024
second in the series.
This one was better than the first. Police chief Mike O’Connell feels guilty over not catching the serial killer in the last book. When injured horse trainer Rachel Parker enters his world due to a stalker and her sister’s abusive husband, sparks fly.
This one was better than the first. Police chief Mike O’Connell feels guilty over not catching the serial killer in the last book. When injured horse trainer Rachel Parker enters his world due to a stalker and her sister’s abusive husband, sparks fly.
February 19, 2018
I will read anything Melinda Leigh publishes.
November 10, 2021
Really good read
Enjoying this series, the mystery is very addictive. Loved Mike's story he was a great character and really liked Rachel too.
Enjoying this series, the mystery is very addictive. Loved Mike's story he was a great character and really liked Rachel too.
August 29, 2021
There's something quite off putting about a police office admiring the curve of her legs 30 seconds after her assault. But I finished it so I can't be that offput
July 15, 2017
Great series😉
Love the drama and the characters are super can't wait to read the rest of the series would definitely recommend
Love the drama and the characters are super can't wait to read the rest of the series would definitely recommend
April 29, 2018
Lots of action and scenarios that are mind boggling !
The relations created were true and worked well with the plot. Never a dull moment in this one!
The relations created were true and worked well with the plot. Never a dull moment in this one!
December 4, 2012
My Review:
I adored the first book in this series, She Can Run, so I was thrilled when Melinda asked me if I wanted to read this book. And it definitely lived up to expectations. Someday I want to be able to write romantic suspense like Melinda Leigh does!! Tons of action, seriously creepy bad guys, amazing emotion, and lots of just fabulous characters that you can't help but to fall in love with....
This book features Rachel. She's had to give up her dreams after a riding accident left her with a shattered shoulder. She's returned home and is working to set up her grandfather's homestead into a profitable horse farm. Upon returning home though she finds her sister's marriage is in a bad place and her sister's alcoholic husband is becoming abusive. That's just the start to her troubles. She also has someone (maybe the sister's husband or maybe someone else) causing problems on the farm.
Mike is the police chief. He has his own set of problems starting with huge amounts of guilt over the fact that a woman died at the hands of a serial killer in his town last year. He is guzzling mylanta like it's water and avoiding his doctor friend, Quinn. It doesn't help things that the police force is short-handed and the city council are putting tons of pressure on Mike. The last thing he needs to do is become involved with Rachel, especially since she is part of an ongoing (actually several ongoing) investigations.
Both Mike and Rachel are very guarded people. Neither one has a great family background and they definitely have issues with trusting their feelings...Rachel especially. Rachel's mother had some mental issues and Rachel worries about that happening with her...so she keeps herself from everyone. She wants and likes to be alone, but Mike refuses to let her face all of this alone...plus he can't stand the thought of her being unprotected. I loved that about him...he is so protective and alpha about her. He's actually that way about the entire town...thus why he isn't sleeping and guzzling mylanta. You have to feel for the poor guy because how can you not love a guy who wants to take on the protection of his entire town.
Then there's Rachel....who is independent to the point of it physically hurting her. She could easily destroy her shoulder so that she could never use it again, but even with that threat, she won't ask for help. But when it comes to protective streaks, she's the same as Mike when it comes to her sister and nieces. Really great characters.
I had NO IDEA who the bad guy was....even when the story was on the verge of revealing it, I kept guessing between three people...so good! You like romantic suspense?? You need to read Melinda Leigh's books! Just a great roller-coaster ride of a read and I LOVED IT!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I adored the first book in this series, She Can Run, so I was thrilled when Melinda asked me if I wanted to read this book. And it definitely lived up to expectations. Someday I want to be able to write romantic suspense like Melinda Leigh does!! Tons of action, seriously creepy bad guys, amazing emotion, and lots of just fabulous characters that you can't help but to fall in love with....
This book features Rachel. She's had to give up her dreams after a riding accident left her with a shattered shoulder. She's returned home and is working to set up her grandfather's homestead into a profitable horse farm. Upon returning home though she finds her sister's marriage is in a bad place and her sister's alcoholic husband is becoming abusive. That's just the start to her troubles. She also has someone (maybe the sister's husband or maybe someone else) causing problems on the farm.
Mike is the police chief. He has his own set of problems starting with huge amounts of guilt over the fact that a woman died at the hands of a serial killer in his town last year. He is guzzling mylanta like it's water and avoiding his doctor friend, Quinn. It doesn't help things that the police force is short-handed and the city council are putting tons of pressure on Mike. The last thing he needs to do is become involved with Rachel, especially since she is part of an ongoing (actually several ongoing) investigations.
Both Mike and Rachel are very guarded people. Neither one has a great family background and they definitely have issues with trusting their feelings...Rachel especially. Rachel's mother had some mental issues and Rachel worries about that happening with her...so she keeps herself from everyone. She wants and likes to be alone, but Mike refuses to let her face all of this alone...plus he can't stand the thought of her being unprotected. I loved that about him...he is so protective and alpha about her. He's actually that way about the entire town...thus why he isn't sleeping and guzzling mylanta. You have to feel for the poor guy because how can you not love a guy who wants to take on the protection of his entire town.
Then there's Rachel....who is independent to the point of it physically hurting her. She could easily destroy her shoulder so that she could never use it again, but even with that threat, she won't ask for help. But when it comes to protective streaks, she's the same as Mike when it comes to her sister and nieces. Really great characters.
I had NO IDEA who the bad guy was....even when the story was on the verge of revealing it, I kept guessing between three people...so good! You like romantic suspense?? You need to read Melinda Leigh's books! Just a great roller-coaster ride of a read and I LOVED IT!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
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