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Fatal Hearts
The reports stated Josh McBride’s death was from sudden cardiac arrest, but homicide detective Boyd McBride can’t shake the idea that his identical twin brother’s death was somehow connected to his search for the adopted boys’ birth parents. Josh must have been close to the truth…and it cost him his life.
When Boyd comes to medical resident Hayden Walsh’s ER looking for answers, she agrees to help with his investigation because Josh was a friend. As unnerved as she is by her attraction to the detective, she knows it will be impossible to avoid romantic entanglement…and the mess that comes with it.
The investigation uncovers dangerous secrets, and Boyd and Hayden’s passion ignites. Only they can keep each other safe from a threat that lurks inside a life-long mystery.
When Boyd comes to medical resident Hayden Walsh’s ER looking for answers, she agrees to help with his investigation because Josh was a friend. As unnerved as she is by her attraction to the detective, she knows it will be impossible to avoid romantic entanglement…and the mess that comes with it.
The investigation uncovers dangerous secrets, and Boyd and Hayden’s passion ignites. Only they can keep each other safe from a threat that lurks inside a life-long mystery.
382 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 19, 2014
174 people are currently reading
873 people want to read
About the author
Norah Wilson
33 books415 followersA USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance, romantic suspense and paranormal romance, Norah lives in Fredericton, New Brunswick, with her husband, two adult children, two dogs (Ruby and Neva) and two cats (Ruckus and Milo).
Norah is a three-time finalist in the Romance Writers of America's Golden Heart contest. In 2003, she won Dorchester Publishing's New Voice in Romance contest.
In addition to writing romance, Norah also writes in the mystery and YA genres with writing partner Heather Doherty. The mystery is the cozy variety, not the thriller variety (they dare you to read a Dix Dodd mystery and not laugh out loud).
Norah is a three-time finalist in the Romance Writers of America's Golden Heart contest. In 2003, she won Dorchester Publishing's New Voice in Romance contest.
In addition to writing romance, Norah also writes in the mystery and YA genres with writing partner Heather Doherty. The mystery is the cozy variety, not the thriller variety (they dare you to read a Dix Dodd mystery and not laugh out loud).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
August 29, 2014
2 stars. DNF at 59 %. Review posted August 29, 2014
Digging (yes, digging not reading) through Fatal Hearts was a tough chore and not a real pleasure. I won’t beat around the proverbial bush, I didn’t get my money’s worth.
There’s an immense amount of investigative work and while I usually enjoy this kind of storyline, the time committed to solving the case was dry and boring. I guess I felt this way because it wasn’t engaging and I was never able to invest myself emotionally. Besides, I didn’t care about the MCs at all. There was zero chemistry between these two and I didn’t get WHY they were attracted to each other, considering that Boyd’s identical twin Josh had been in love with Hayden yet she looked at him like a good friend or a brother. While she never reciprocated Josh's feelings, it was so easy for her to feel attracted to Boyd. Weird.
Her heart thumped so hard, she could feel her pulse throbbing in her fingertips. And his smell! So like Josh’s scent, it was comforting and familiar on the one hand and confusing on the other.
See? That's kinda creepy and weird.
Going into this story I knew what I had to expect but I can’t help how I feel about it now.
A very huge issue of mine was the lack of true and bone-deep emotion. Also, the characters, esp. Boyd came off as too detached and bland. Fact is, a couple tears don’t make for an emotional read. Too many times there was the talk about a tightening throat or they held back or shed some tears. Or this:
She blinked rapidly.
Or this…
His words throbbed with so much emotion, Hayden felt her own throat grow painfully tight.
Too bad my head throbbed with growing disappointment. I just didn't feel the alleged emotion.
The weepy and sad atmosphere put me off and some parts were downright cheesy. And, Boyd putting himself in his brother’s shoes to get a feel for his life in Fredericton, and then hitting on Hayden not only peeved me but creeped me out as well. I found it very awkward when Boyd told Hayden that Josh had been in love with her and his act smelled of manipulation. Plus, Hayden not being aware of Josh’s feelings for her was proof how dense she was. *headdesk* Anyway, more often than not I found Boyd and Hayden’s interaction odd and it didn’t feel authentic.
At
And oh God, she’d been Josh’s love. How was he supposed to reconcile that?
How could he start an affair with the woman Josh wanted to marry?
Is this a bad joke? He always wanted her. He was practically salivating over her. I lost count how many times he mentioned what a hot woman she is, for Pete’s sake! It’s so hypocritical to ask himself that when he already made up his mind a long time ago.
And right before that nice line, they kissed and then “Oh, Christ, Hayden. I’m sorry.” (…) “You don’t want to get involved with anyone—much less with your dead best friend’s brother. I respect that. I respect you. This was…I’m sorry. I don’t really have any defense, except—“
“Defense? Boyd, you don’t need one. I’m the one who started—“ She looked up at him, horrified. “Oh, crap, I jumped you. You’re grieving, feeling low, and I freaking jumped on you. I am so sorry.”
Ludicrous.
The musky sex smell of him brought her to full arousal. She could feel herself readying for him, her sex growing slick again, internal muscles pulling her uterus up, making room to take his lovely, lovely--
I had to read that twice. Next time I get laid I'll think of my uterus being pulled up by internal muscles to make room to take that lovely, lovely…maybe not. Thank you very much.
My next issue isn’t really a complaint but a fact: when I know who the murderer is early into the story, a lot of the tension dissipates into the ether. The author made it very easy to crack that little tidbit.
This was the first BIG hint:
Huge spoilers; don't open them if you plan on reading the book.
I mean you can’t make it any easier.
All in all a disappointing and weak read.
Digging (yes, digging not reading) through Fatal Hearts was a tough chore and not a real pleasure. I won’t beat around the proverbial bush, I didn’t get my money’s worth.
There’s an immense amount of investigative work and while I usually enjoy this kind of storyline, the time committed to solving the case was dry and boring. I guess I felt this way because it wasn’t engaging and I was never able to invest myself emotionally. Besides, I didn’t care about the MCs at all. There was zero chemistry between these two and I didn’t get WHY they were attracted to each other, considering that Boyd’s identical twin Josh had been in love with Hayden yet she looked at him like a good friend or a brother. While she never reciprocated Josh's feelings, it was so easy for her to feel attracted to Boyd. Weird.
Her heart thumped so hard, she could feel her pulse throbbing in her fingertips. And his smell! So like Josh’s scent, it was comforting and familiar on the one hand and confusing on the other.
See? That's kinda creepy and weird.
Going into this story I knew what I had to expect but I can’t help how I feel about it now.
A very huge issue of mine was the lack of true and bone-deep emotion. Also, the characters, esp. Boyd came off as too detached and bland. Fact is, a couple tears don’t make for an emotional read. Too many times there was the talk about a tightening throat or they held back or shed some tears. Or this:
She blinked rapidly.
Or this…
His words throbbed with so much emotion, Hayden felt her own throat grow painfully tight.
Too bad my head throbbed with growing disappointment. I just didn't feel the alleged emotion.
The weepy and sad atmosphere put me off and some parts were downright cheesy. And, Boyd putting himself in his brother’s shoes to get a feel for his life in Fredericton, and then hitting on Hayden not only peeved me but creeped me out as well. I found it very awkward when Boyd told Hayden that Josh had been in love with her and his act smelled of manipulation. Plus, Hayden not being aware of Josh’s feelings for her was proof how dense she was. *headdesk* Anyway, more often than not I found Boyd and Hayden’s interaction odd and it didn’t feel authentic.
At
And oh God, she’d been Josh’s love. How was he supposed to reconcile that?
How could he start an affair with the woman Josh wanted to marry?
Is this a bad joke? He always wanted her. He was practically salivating over her. I lost count how many times he mentioned what a hot woman she is, for Pete’s sake! It’s so hypocritical to ask himself that when he already made up his mind a long time ago.
And right before that nice line, they kissed and then “Oh, Christ, Hayden. I’m sorry.” (…) “You don’t want to get involved with anyone—much less with your dead best friend’s brother. I respect that. I respect you. This was…I’m sorry. I don’t really have any defense, except—“
“Defense? Boyd, you don’t need one. I’m the one who started—“ She looked up at him, horrified. “Oh, crap, I jumped you. You’re grieving, feeling low, and I freaking jumped on you. I am so sorry.”
Ludicrous.
The musky sex smell of him brought her to full arousal. She could feel herself readying for him, her sex growing slick again, internal muscles pulling her uterus up, making room to take his lovely, lovely--
I had to read that twice. Next time I get laid I'll think of my uterus being pulled up by internal muscles to make room to take that lovely, lovely…maybe not. Thank you very much.
My next issue isn’t really a complaint but a fact: when I know who the murderer is early into the story, a lot of the tension dissipates into the ether. The author made it very easy to crack that little tidbit.
This was the first BIG hint:
Huge spoilers; don't open them if you plan on reading the book.
I mean you can’t make it any easier.
All in all a disappointing and weak read.
October 18, 2016
Really disappointed in this one...
Unfortunately, this book just didn't work for me. The MCs (Hayden & Boyd) were very flat and there's nothing about them that pulled me into their stories. And, for me, their romance just didn't work. It's just too weird that she looked at Boyd's identical twin brother (Josh) as a BFF, but she's finds herself physically attracted to Boyd. And her attraction was almost immediate versus, over time and learning the difference between the twins.
Josh is dead and Boyd thinks he was murdered and wants to spend time with Hayden learning what they did (this seemed weird and didn't work for me). So the story throws them together talking about Josh and fighting a physical attraction. At 43% I had decided to skim. There was a whole lot of thinking (a lot repetitive feeling), a whole lot of denial (again repetitive) and a whole lot of boring. And then we reach a point in the story where there was a whole lot of sex which never works when you're not feeling the romance of the couple - so I skipped all the sex scenes.
The murder investigation/suspense was very slow going and very boring. It didn't take off until about 75% but by then the book had already lost me as a reader. And although the investigation took off, it was predictable and landed right where I thought it would.
I liked Ms. Wilson's Serve and Protect series and was hoping that I would like this one as well. In fact Grace and Morgan from Saving Grace - Serve and Protect #2 (which I enjoyed) were integrated into this book and plot really well.
Although this one didn't work, I like Ms. Wilson's writing and plan to read her future books.
Unfortunately, this book just didn't work for me. The MCs (Hayden & Boyd) were very flat and there's nothing about them that pulled me into their stories. And, for me, their romance just didn't work. It's just too weird that she looked at Boyd's identical twin brother (Josh) as a BFF, but she's finds herself physically attracted to Boyd. And her attraction was almost immediate versus, over time and learning the difference between the twins.
Josh is dead and Boyd thinks he was murdered and wants to spend time with Hayden learning what they did (this seemed weird and didn't work for me). So the story throws them together talking about Josh and fighting a physical attraction. At 43% I had decided to skim. There was a whole lot of thinking (a lot repetitive feeling), a whole lot of denial (again repetitive) and a whole lot of boring. And then we reach a point in the story where there was a whole lot of sex which never works when you're not feeling the romance of the couple - so I skipped all the sex scenes.
The murder investigation/suspense was very slow going and very boring. It didn't take off until about 75% but by then the book had already lost me as a reader. And although the investigation took off, it was predictable and landed right where I thought it would.
I liked Ms. Wilson's Serve and Protect series and was hoping that I would like this one as well. In fact Grace and Morgan from Saving Grace - Serve and Protect #2 (which I enjoyed) were integrated into this book and plot really well.
Although this one didn't work, I like Ms. Wilson's writing and plan to read her future books.
September 6, 2014
Boyd McBride turns up in Fredericton to solve the mystery behind the sudden death of his twin Josh who had been pursuing the truth behind their adoption years ago, which seemed to have been carried out seemingly under the most shadiest of circumstances. Boyd doesn’t accept that Josh died of natural causes like everyone else is inclined to believe. Digging into the everyday life that Josh had led brings Boyd up close and personal with Dr. Hayden Walsh, Josh’s best friend.
Given that they were identical twins, Hayden would never have thought that she would respond to Boyd McBride on an intrinsic level that she had never responded to when it had come to Josh. Though Hayden tries to hide behind her walls of self preservation, she has a hard time sticking to her guns when it comes to Boyd and the grief that they share over Josh whom they both had loved so much. As Boyd starts digging and begins to uncover clues that would lead him to the eventual truth, Hayden realizes that there is more to the no strings attached affair that she and Boyd embarks on after giving into the tumultuous desire between them.
Norah Wilson is an author that has always worked for me. Her books always have a lot of heart, depth and emotion, not to mention the heart thumping variety of heroes that you can never get enough of. Her books like The Mezeretti Effect and Lauren’s Eyes, later published under Montlake as Every Breathe She Takes testifies towards the immense amount of talent she has. And it pains me to say that Fatal Hearts didn’t do it for me.
At first, when Boyd walked into the book with his brood and heart stopping good looks, well you can imagine what I would have gone through. But as the story progressed, I felt that Boyd didn’t live up to his potential, perhaps the reason being the narrative was a bit too dry and procedural in the story. I love books that go into depth with the crime solving aspect but I felt that this book could’ve removed a 100 plus pages and still would’ve managed to tell the same story.
I don’t like writing reviews that sound negative, but as a reviewer it is my duty to be honest about how I feel about a book. I believe with my whole heart that Fatal Hearts had the ingredients that would’ve made a helluva romantic suspense. Boyd could’ve turned into the hero that could’ve made me weep for thousands of reasons and Hayden though I did love her as she was, I felt she too could’ve shined just a tad more. While the mystery aspect was predictable, that still gave the story a bit of an edge that kept the pages turning.
Having felt all out of sorts after reading Fatal Hearts, I did look up a couple of reviews on Goodreads to see how other readers have felt. Surprisingly, a lot of them have given Fatal Hearts 5 stars though a couple of readers like myself have stated feeling the same way I felt when I read the story. In the end I would have to say that it was my love for Norah as an author and the warm, beautiful person behind the name I’d gotten to know through social media, is the reason I gave my every effort to finish the book.
Honestly, if this is where you aim to sample Norah Wilson, I would caution you to stop right there. Pick up any other book, preferably either The Mezeretti Effect or Every Breath She Takes. Those are the stories that would blow you away and make you fall in love with Norah’s ability to spin a wondrous tale that entertains and excites and that’s what you should be reading.
Rating = 2.75/5
For more reviews & quotes, visit www.maldivianbookreviewer.com
Given that they were identical twins, Hayden would never have thought that she would respond to Boyd McBride on an intrinsic level that she had never responded to when it had come to Josh. Though Hayden tries to hide behind her walls of self preservation, she has a hard time sticking to her guns when it comes to Boyd and the grief that they share over Josh whom they both had loved so much. As Boyd starts digging and begins to uncover clues that would lead him to the eventual truth, Hayden realizes that there is more to the no strings attached affair that she and Boyd embarks on after giving into the tumultuous desire between them.
Norah Wilson is an author that has always worked for me. Her books always have a lot of heart, depth and emotion, not to mention the heart thumping variety of heroes that you can never get enough of. Her books like The Mezeretti Effect and Lauren’s Eyes, later published under Montlake as Every Breathe She Takes testifies towards the immense amount of talent she has. And it pains me to say that Fatal Hearts didn’t do it for me.
At first, when Boyd walked into the book with his brood and heart stopping good looks, well you can imagine what I would have gone through. But as the story progressed, I felt that Boyd didn’t live up to his potential, perhaps the reason being the narrative was a bit too dry and procedural in the story. I love books that go into depth with the crime solving aspect but I felt that this book could’ve removed a 100 plus pages and still would’ve managed to tell the same story.
I don’t like writing reviews that sound negative, but as a reviewer it is my duty to be honest about how I feel about a book. I believe with my whole heart that Fatal Hearts had the ingredients that would’ve made a helluva romantic suspense. Boyd could’ve turned into the hero that could’ve made me weep for thousands of reasons and Hayden though I did love her as she was, I felt she too could’ve shined just a tad more. While the mystery aspect was predictable, that still gave the story a bit of an edge that kept the pages turning.
Having felt all out of sorts after reading Fatal Hearts, I did look up a couple of reviews on Goodreads to see how other readers have felt. Surprisingly, a lot of them have given Fatal Hearts 5 stars though a couple of readers like myself have stated feeling the same way I felt when I read the story. In the end I would have to say that it was my love for Norah as an author and the warm, beautiful person behind the name I’d gotten to know through social media, is the reason I gave my every effort to finish the book.
Honestly, if this is where you aim to sample Norah Wilson, I would caution you to stop right there. Pick up any other book, preferably either The Mezeretti Effect or Every Breath She Takes. Those are the stories that would blow you away and make you fall in love with Norah’s ability to spin a wondrous tale that entertains and excites and that’s what you should be reading.
Rating = 2.75/5
For more reviews & quotes, visit www.maldivianbookreviewer.com
January 7, 2016
Boyd McBride's brother is dead and Boyd wants answers. Was the death truly just a tragic heart related incident or was he getting too close to the truth about their birth parents? Boyd arrives in Fredericton to find the answers and he starts at the hospital. Hayden Walsh was a good friend to Josh McBride and is willing to help Boyd find the truth.
I was surprised and delighted to see characters from Norah Wilson's Serve and Protect series in this book. I liked it and the characters and the pace, etc... It probably wasn't my favorite book my Ms. Wilson but I would still recommend this to Romantic Suspense fans.
I was surprised and delighted to see characters from Norah Wilson's Serve and Protect series in this book. I liked it and the characters and the pace, etc... It probably wasn't my favorite book my Ms. Wilson but I would still recommend this to Romantic Suspense fans.
August 10, 2014
4 ½ Stars – one of my favorites of the Summer!
Boyd McBride has come to the small town of Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada looking for answers in his identical twin brother Josh’s death. How can a healthy thirty-five year old man just die of cardiac arrest? Boyd expects to find the answers to his questions; but what he doesn’t expect is to find is a woman who steals his heart.
Boyd is a detective and a good one. He is rather closed off emotionally and is quick to judge situations. His first impressions of Hayden were not flattering. Hayden is a doctor and working on the last months of her residency. She is focused on helping others and seems rather oblivious to her own good looks. They share an instant connection due to each of them being close with Josh; but they also had an immediate attraction to each other and a chemistry they fought hard. I enjoyed the rather purposeful slow progression of their romance. It seemed natural. The sexy scenes were well placed (no sexy scenes as killers are searching the house) and just the right amount steam – but be warned you might not want to read the scenes in a public place – such as on lunch break in the lunchroom or on a plane.
The plot was wonderful and well thought out – not just written but well crafted. Words and situations were not just quickly thrown together; you can definitely sense that Norah Wilson took time to choose the most appropriate situation and words to create each scene. Boyd was Josh’s identical twin and in the first scenes in the book there was obvious attention to the detail of what it would be like for an identical twin to investigate his brother’s death. Romantic suspense is one of my favorite genres, this one is fantastic with a small amount of mystery too – readers will be guessing to the end on what was the cause of Josh’s death and why. The epilogue was satisfying and actually brought a tear to my eye.
This is not the first Norah Wilson book I have read, but after reading Fatal Hearts I am now putting her “Serve and Protect” series on my TBR pile. After a little digging I discovered many of her characters of that series made cameos in this book and Ray Morgan of Saving Grace playing a major role in this book. I now want to go and read all of their stories. I also hope this is a sign that there is more Boyd McBride to be seen in future books set in Fredericton.
Norah Wilson created another fantastic read. She goes on my list of go to Romantic Suspense authors. One of the best I have read this summer and this year!
I received this book from the author for my honest review.
The full review complete with quotes will be on http://www.tbqsbookpalace.com/ close to release day August 19th - Just save yourself time and go Preorder!
Boyd McBride has come to the small town of Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada looking for answers in his identical twin brother Josh’s death. How can a healthy thirty-five year old man just die of cardiac arrest? Boyd expects to find the answers to his questions; but what he doesn’t expect is to find is a woman who steals his heart.
Boyd is a detective and a good one. He is rather closed off emotionally and is quick to judge situations. His first impressions of Hayden were not flattering. Hayden is a doctor and working on the last months of her residency. She is focused on helping others and seems rather oblivious to her own good looks. They share an instant connection due to each of them being close with Josh; but they also had an immediate attraction to each other and a chemistry they fought hard. I enjoyed the rather purposeful slow progression of their romance. It seemed natural. The sexy scenes were well placed (no sexy scenes as killers are searching the house) and just the right amount steam – but be warned you might not want to read the scenes in a public place – such as on lunch break in the lunchroom or on a plane.
The plot was wonderful and well thought out – not just written but well crafted. Words and situations were not just quickly thrown together; you can definitely sense that Norah Wilson took time to choose the most appropriate situation and words to create each scene. Boyd was Josh’s identical twin and in the first scenes in the book there was obvious attention to the detail of what it would be like for an identical twin to investigate his brother’s death. Romantic suspense is one of my favorite genres, this one is fantastic with a small amount of mystery too – readers will be guessing to the end on what was the cause of Josh’s death and why. The epilogue was satisfying and actually brought a tear to my eye.
This is not the first Norah Wilson book I have read, but after reading Fatal Hearts I am now putting her “Serve and Protect” series on my TBR pile. After a little digging I discovered many of her characters of that series made cameos in this book and Ray Morgan of Saving Grace playing a major role in this book. I now want to go and read all of their stories. I also hope this is a sign that there is more Boyd McBride to be seen in future books set in Fredericton.
Norah Wilson created another fantastic read. She goes on my list of go to Romantic Suspense authors. One of the best I have read this summer and this year!
I received this book from the author for my honest review.
The full review complete with quotes will be on http://www.tbqsbookpalace.com/ close to release day August 19th - Just save yourself time and go Preorder!
August 19, 2014
My Review:
Sigh...this book was just so good. The premise of the story is that both the main characters are tied together by their love of one man, Josh, who died at the age of 35 of a sudden heart attack.
For Boyd, this hit especially close because they were identical twin brothers with all the closeness that entail. He's obviously devastated, but so is Hayden. Josh was her best friend and she thought of him as her big older brother, not realizing that Josh was in love with her. Boyd knew, although he'd never met Hayden until the funeral.
Boyd is a cop and he just doesn't feel as though everything is kosher with Josh's sudden death...mainly because he'd had a breakthrough that morning about finding their birth parents. Boyd had no idea what that breakthrough was though because by the time he returned the call, Josh was dead.
The heartbreak that circles the story is so emotional and so well done. I love a bit of angst with my romance and this story definitely has that. I had a pretty good idea way early in the story about the outcome and the suspense line, but that didn't affect my enjoyment of the revelations at all. In fact, I couldn't wait to get to the expose to find out whether I was guessing right or not...I was, but it was still amazingly done and crafted. I loved the ins and outs of the suspense weaving.
I also really loved both Boyd and Hayden. For Hayden, Boyd has Josh's face so it's a bit weird for her to be attracted to him. But the chemistry is definitely there between the two of them that she didn't have with Josh. For Boyd, he feels like he's betraying his twin by acting on his feelings for Hayden. Josh loved her and hoped for a future eventually with her. The conflict for both these characters felt very real and believable.
Boyd is a detective and Hayden is a doctor. I loved the way that their careers played into the story and the suspense story line. So many times when a cop is away from his home turf, there is some extra drama because he's stepping on the locals' toes by trying to do their jobs. I liked the way Morgan accepted Boyd and that it, pretty much, wasn't an issue. Again, it just had a more believable feel to it the way it was written. No easy drama just because it could be written in that way. I like that Norah Wilson doesn't go for the easy conflicts, but develops deeper ones...a sign of a great writer.
This was definitely an example of REALLY GREAT romantic suspense writing, but my favorite part of the story had to be the romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Sigh...this book was just so good. The premise of the story is that both the main characters are tied together by their love of one man, Josh, who died at the age of 35 of a sudden heart attack.
For Boyd, this hit especially close because they were identical twin brothers with all the closeness that entail. He's obviously devastated, but so is Hayden. Josh was her best friend and she thought of him as her big older brother, not realizing that Josh was in love with her. Boyd knew, although he'd never met Hayden until the funeral.
Boyd is a cop and he just doesn't feel as though everything is kosher with Josh's sudden death...mainly because he'd had a breakthrough that morning about finding their birth parents. Boyd had no idea what that breakthrough was though because by the time he returned the call, Josh was dead.
The heartbreak that circles the story is so emotional and so well done. I love a bit of angst with my romance and this story definitely has that. I had a pretty good idea way early in the story about the outcome and the suspense line, but that didn't affect my enjoyment of the revelations at all. In fact, I couldn't wait to get to the expose to find out whether I was guessing right or not...I was, but it was still amazingly done and crafted. I loved the ins and outs of the suspense weaving.
I also really loved both Boyd and Hayden. For Hayden, Boyd has Josh's face so it's a bit weird for her to be attracted to him. But the chemistry is definitely there between the two of them that she didn't have with Josh. For Boyd, he feels like he's betraying his twin by acting on his feelings for Hayden. Josh loved her and hoped for a future eventually with her. The conflict for both these characters felt very real and believable.
Boyd is a detective and Hayden is a doctor. I loved the way that their careers played into the story and the suspense story line. So many times when a cop is away from his home turf, there is some extra drama because he's stepping on the locals' toes by trying to do their jobs. I liked the way Morgan accepted Boyd and that it, pretty much, wasn't an issue. Again, it just had a more believable feel to it the way it was written. No easy drama just because it could be written in that way. I like that Norah Wilson doesn't go for the easy conflicts, but develops deeper ones...a sign of a great writer.
This was definitely an example of REALLY GREAT romantic suspense writing, but my favorite part of the story had to be the romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
no-thank-you
October 15, 2016All I need to do here is read Baba's review ....
February 22, 2016
Unfortunately, this one just wasn't for me - no major issues, just a few minor ones that kept me from really investing in the story.
October 3, 2014
Homicide detective Boyd McBride twin brother Josh McBride died suddenly while investigating their birth parents. Boyd can't shake the feeling someone murdered his brother to keep his birth parents a secret. Boyd decided to do everything like his twin brother did the last few weeks until his death.
Which includes being around Josh best friend Hayden Walsh an ER doctor. The investigation uncovers a dangerous secret, and one person will do anything including murder to keep that secret.
Norah WIlson is different from most of the Romantic Suspense author I have read in the last few months. Her book is well crafted from each characters well developed and never questioning why they do something. Every character had a purpose and no one was fuff. The mystery was great because you got to ride along trying to figure out who could be murder and who are the parents. The author didn't throw tons of suspicious characters at the reader instead the author made you care for everyone in the book even down to the murder. The book wasn't full of twist and turns that took away from the main mystery or romance instead they only helped build the story with the reader feeling very satisfied.
The romance between Boyd and Hayen was a little odd at first but at the same time it made since as the book ended. What lack with one brother was there with the other. Being a romantic suspense there is sex but during that time a relationship is also built so when the end happens you know the author thought it out and it made since. There were moments where the book would get a little to chatty but at the same time the author was building relationship with people in the town. I knew about half way though the book who the murder was and a good idea why but the ending was still great and I loved the book.
As a reader I could tell that Norah Wilson made sure this book was well crafted no easy drama that could written away later in the book or easily forgotten. Instead she developed the characters and allowed them to grow within the book.
I will even admit this book tugged at my heart strings and I hoped that Boyd and Hayden would find peace in their lives after losing the one person who meant the most to both of them.
Which includes being around Josh best friend Hayden Walsh an ER doctor. The investigation uncovers a dangerous secret, and one person will do anything including murder to keep that secret.
Norah WIlson is different from most of the Romantic Suspense author I have read in the last few months. Her book is well crafted from each characters well developed and never questioning why they do something. Every character had a purpose and no one was fuff. The mystery was great because you got to ride along trying to figure out who could be murder and who are the parents. The author didn't throw tons of suspicious characters at the reader instead the author made you care for everyone in the book even down to the murder. The book wasn't full of twist and turns that took away from the main mystery or romance instead they only helped build the story with the reader feeling very satisfied.
The romance between Boyd and Hayen was a little odd at first but at the same time it made since as the book ended. What lack with one brother was there with the other. Being a romantic suspense there is sex but during that time a relationship is also built so when the end happens you know the author thought it out and it made since. There were moments where the book would get a little to chatty but at the same time the author was building relationship with people in the town. I knew about half way though the book who the murder was and a good idea why but the ending was still great and I loved the book.
As a reader I could tell that Norah Wilson made sure this book was well crafted no easy drama that could written away later in the book or easily forgotten. Instead she developed the characters and allowed them to grow within the book.
I will even admit this book tugged at my heart strings and I hoped that Boyd and Hayden would find peace in their lives after losing the one person who meant the most to both of them.
October 17, 2018
Josh & Boyd were identical twins, adopted. Josh was an investigative journalist & Boyd, a homicide detective. Josh was carrying a private investigation about finding their birth parents in his spare time & messages Boyd that he finally found out about them. The events take turn when Josh was found dead in his car the very next day. Boyd believes something is fishy & starts to look into things while still recovering from the shock of his brother's death. He believes the search for their birth parents is the reason Josh is dead but can't get around the fact that his brother who had previously been involved with much dangerous investigations involving criminals & most wanted gangsters could fall trap to something so harmless.
.
Was he right to think that this investigation had something to do with his brother's death, or Josh really died naturally because of cardiac arrest like the medical reports show?
.
Was he right to think that this investigation had something to do with his brother's death, or Josh really died naturally because of cardiac arrest like the medical reports show?
August 27, 2019
I enjoyed the book. I got it from Goodreads. I was glad it was a book that kept me interested and guessing to the end. I didn't see the need for the graphic sex scenes. But it seems to many writers feel the need to insert them in their books. Boyd follows his gut instinct that his twin brother was murdered. All the evidence says other wise. This is a well developed story on how he finds out who murdered his brother, why he was murdered and who did it. Al he falls in love.
February 4, 2021
Good writing style and likable characters. Hero not a man-whore (no mention of OW, or comparisons to OW) and Heroine not a love-stuck fool. They felt real and I liked them being together. The ending was really sweet with a happy end. The only "bad" thing was that the story dragged a little sometimes.
Recommended.
Recommended.
November 26, 2016
Ahhhhh
Very satisfying tale. Lots of stuff going on and it was delightful. Now it did have too much graphic sex but I read over it, they really are cute together but my imagination is just fine.
Very satisfying tale. Lots of stuff going on and it was delightful. Now it did have too much graphic sex but I read over it, they really are cute together but my imagination is just fine.
August 5, 2018
Ok, if a bit unrealistic. I don't care for the sex parts, so I just skimmed over them. I liked the characters, but found the beginning a bit of a slow read until the story picked up pace just past the middle.
March 25, 2019
I really enjoyed this book about a detective coming to terms with his twin’s death whilst looking into the suspicious circumstances around his death. An original plot with well written characters. An easy and entertaining read, with romance and suspense.
June 7, 2017
Good story
The story was good but a little predictable. Sex scenes were too long and unnecessary. Still a pretty good read.
The story was good but a little predictable. Sex scenes were too long and unnecessary. Still a pretty good read.
December 10, 2017
Plotting vs. Faith
Great read, I enjoyed it. It may have needed a little more story depth, but it was still a page turner.
Great read, I enjoyed it. It may have needed a little more story depth, but it was still a page turner.
June 10, 2018
A great romantic suspense
Boyd and Hayden’s attraction was a force neither could fight. They needed each others strength to solve and defeat a foe who patiently planned every move.
Boyd and Hayden’s attraction was a force neither could fight. They needed each others strength to solve and defeat a foe who patiently planned every move.
August 16, 2018
I found this book easy to read, I enjoyed it and would recommend it to others
September 17, 2018
Not terrible but not one of my favorites. I liked it but I didn't love it.
September 20, 2018
Slow start, ending was unexpected, excellent mystery
Must read, author keep slow start and elevated to unexpected crescendo highly recommend this author, hope to see a sequel
Must read, author keep slow start and elevated to unexpected crescendo highly recommend this author, hope to see a sequel
September 30, 2018
Compelling read
This book will keep you on your toes with all the twist and turns. I couldn't put it down, excellent writing. I sailed through the read, and you will to, enjoy.
This book will keep you on your toes with all the twist and turns. I couldn't put it down, excellent writing. I sailed through the read, and you will to, enjoy.
November 28, 2018
Excellent book
This book blends mystery and intimacy in a excellent way. Not boring, not cheap, but good quality. If you like action and mystery it's a book to read
This book blends mystery and intimacy in a excellent way. Not boring, not cheap, but good quality. If you like action and mystery it's a book to read
October 10, 2019
Disappointed
Started out good. But went flat real fast. I had to skip through just to see how it ended. But I knew from the beginning who did it and I was right.
Started out good. But went flat real fast. I had to skip through just to see how it ended. But I knew from the beginning who did it and I was right.
May 1, 2021
3.5 Stars for me!
I did enjoy the story but there was so much misdirection when the villain was easy to spot. I did enjoy the investigation aspect.
I did enjoy the story but there was so much misdirection when the villain was easy to spot. I did enjoy the investigation aspect.
September 16, 2014
Damn, is it nice to read a book that has a trifecta of awesomeness: a great suspenseful storyline, well developed and relatable characters, and just enough incredibly hot sex to keep it steaming from page 1 until the end.
As a 15-year police veteran, Boyd McBride is used to dealing with dead bodies. Unfortunately, nothing ever prepared him for the death of his own twin brother Josh under suspicious circumstances. Boyd is convinced that Josh's death is directly related to his search for their birth parents, a search that had consumed Josh until his last days. Determined to find the truth, Boyd parks it in Fredericton and works to chase down Josh's leads with the help of Josh's brilliant and beautiful best friend Hayden Walsh.
Hayden and Josh were as close as siblings and just as platonic (much to Josh's chagrin), but her reaction to Boyd is anything but friendly. How can her best friend's identical twin brother elicit an entirely different reaction in her? Her long dormant libido is firing on all cylinders now, and despite Boyd's guilt at wanting his brother's woman, the two of them can't deny the chemistry that threatens to explode when they're together. As hot as they are in the bedroom, Boyd and Hayden also make one hell of a good investigative team. In his search for answers, will Boyd be able to do what Josh couldn't...get the girl and find out the truth behind their adoption?
There is simply nothing better on a summer afternoon than kicking back with a glass of wine and getting lost in a fabulous book. FATAL HEARTS is an excellent romantic suspense read that oozed tension (both sexual and otherwise), a tightly woven medical mystery and characters you can relate to. The chemistry between Hayden and Boyd had my ereader in danger of melting each time the two were together despite the circumstances of their relationship. I really felt for Boyd, his utter and absolute grief at the loss of his twin, the guilt he feels by being desperately attracted to the woman Josh was in love with, the anger and frustration of a search for his birth parents getting thwarted at every turn...poor guy really was having a rough go of it. Hayden was pretty terrific too. She wasn't the sassy, able to kick ass heroine in so many suspense stories, but instead she had a quiet dignity, strength and intelligence that fit perfectly in this storyline.
While the mystery wasn't particularly difficult to uncover, the suspenseful story was filled with just the right amount of quietly developing clues that make you hesitant to put the book down for hours, waiting for that next tidbit of information. FATAL HEARTS has everything you could want in a romantic suspense: sexy yet relatable MC's, multiple layers of intrigue and mystery, some well-built suspense that keeps you on edge and of course some incredibly erotic sex scenes that make your ereader in danger of a meltdown. Pick this book up ASAP!
As a 15-year police veteran, Boyd McBride is used to dealing with dead bodies. Unfortunately, nothing ever prepared him for the death of his own twin brother Josh under suspicious circumstances. Boyd is convinced that Josh's death is directly related to his search for their birth parents, a search that had consumed Josh until his last days. Determined to find the truth, Boyd parks it in Fredericton and works to chase down Josh's leads with the help of Josh's brilliant and beautiful best friend Hayden Walsh.
Hayden and Josh were as close as siblings and just as platonic (much to Josh's chagrin), but her reaction to Boyd is anything but friendly. How can her best friend's identical twin brother elicit an entirely different reaction in her? Her long dormant libido is firing on all cylinders now, and despite Boyd's guilt at wanting his brother's woman, the two of them can't deny the chemistry that threatens to explode when they're together. As hot as they are in the bedroom, Boyd and Hayden also make one hell of a good investigative team. In his search for answers, will Boyd be able to do what Josh couldn't...get the girl and find out the truth behind their adoption?
There is simply nothing better on a summer afternoon than kicking back with a glass of wine and getting lost in a fabulous book. FATAL HEARTS is an excellent romantic suspense read that oozed tension (both sexual and otherwise), a tightly woven medical mystery and characters you can relate to. The chemistry between Hayden and Boyd had my ereader in danger of melting each time the two were together despite the circumstances of their relationship. I really felt for Boyd, his utter and absolute grief at the loss of his twin, the guilt he feels by being desperately attracted to the woman Josh was in love with, the anger and frustration of a search for his birth parents getting thwarted at every turn...poor guy really was having a rough go of it. Hayden was pretty terrific too. She wasn't the sassy, able to kick ass heroine in so many suspense stories, but instead she had a quiet dignity, strength and intelligence that fit perfectly in this storyline.
While the mystery wasn't particularly difficult to uncover, the suspenseful story was filled with just the right amount of quietly developing clues that make you hesitant to put the book down for hours, waiting for that next tidbit of information. FATAL HEARTS has everything you could want in a romantic suspense: sexy yet relatable MC's, multiple layers of intrigue and mystery, some well-built suspense that keeps you on edge and of course some incredibly erotic sex scenes that make your ereader in danger of a meltdown. Pick this book up ASAP!
August 19, 2014
When Toronto homicide detective Boyd McBride learned of his identical twin Josh McBride’s death due to cardiac arrest, he was not only devastated, he simply could believe that his brother who was so upbeat and physically active could have had any kind of heart condition. The last time Boyd had spoke to Josh he’d been thrilled and indicated he had finally uncovered information leading to the identity of their biological mother. Determined to take up the quest, Boyd came to Fredericton and enlisted medical resident and Josh’s close friend Hayden Walsh’s assistance. The more they spend time together Boyd finds it hard to believe that his brother died of natural causes, and discovers an attraction to Hayden that he finds difficult to accept knowing of his brothers unrequited love for the same woman. But when the investigation turns up more bodies, secrets, and betrayals, can they keep each other safe as they uncover the truth.
*** As I have discovered in most all books penned by Ms. Wilson’s, her villain’s are usually very much disturbed and extremely evil sociopaths. And as I happily discovered once again in FATAL HEARTS, I was not surprised at our villain’s makeup and I didn’t figure it out until Wilson’s main characters figured it out themselves [although I did have my suspicions!]. The fact that Wilson creates such cold-blooded and arrogant villains, is just an added part of the pleasure one gets in reading her suspense stories.
I also enjoyed the fact that Wilson allows time to pass and a relationship to evolve before plunking her leads into intimacy, which was quite steamy and generally very sensual and well done. Additionally, the plethora of numerous secondary characters add so much depth to truly flesh out this very robust story and sends out all kinds of questions as to ‘who’ could be the villain in the mystery.
All in all, I have read many of Norah Wilson’s books and have always come away with a wonderful sense of enjoyment and high entertainment. As far as I am concerned, Ms. Wilson hits all the buttons I require when looking for a high caliber romantic suspense with surprise endings!
Marilyn Rondeau, for www.ck2skwipsandkritiques.com
*** As I have discovered in most all books penned by Ms. Wilson’s, her villain’s are usually very much disturbed and extremely evil sociopaths. And as I happily discovered once again in FATAL HEARTS, I was not surprised at our villain’s makeup and I didn’t figure it out until Wilson’s main characters figured it out themselves [although I did have my suspicions!]. The fact that Wilson creates such cold-blooded and arrogant villains, is just an added part of the pleasure one gets in reading her suspense stories.
I also enjoyed the fact that Wilson allows time to pass and a relationship to evolve before plunking her leads into intimacy, which was quite steamy and generally very sensual and well done. Additionally, the plethora of numerous secondary characters add so much depth to truly flesh out this very robust story and sends out all kinds of questions as to ‘who’ could be the villain in the mystery.
All in all, I have read many of Norah Wilson’s books and have always come away with a wonderful sense of enjoyment and high entertainment. As far as I am concerned, Ms. Wilson hits all the buttons I require when looking for a high caliber romantic suspense with surprise endings!
Marilyn Rondeau, for www.ck2skwipsandkritiques.com
February 27, 2015
Homicide detective Boyd McBride twin brother Josh McBride died suddenly while investigating their birth parents. Boyd can't shake the feeling someone murdered his brother to keep his birth parents a secret. Boyd decided to do everything like his twin brother did the last few weeks until his death.
Which includes being around Josh best friend Hayden Walsh an ER doctor. The investigation uncovers a dangerous secret, and one person will do anything including murder to keep that secret.
The mystery was great because you got to ride along trying to figure out who could be the murderer and who are the parents. The author didn't throw tons of suspicious characters at the reader instead the author made you care for everyone in the book even down to the murder. The book wasn't full of twist and turns that took away from the main mystery or romance instead they only helped build the story with the reader feeling very satisfied.
The romance between Boyd and Hayen was a little odd at first but at the same time it made sence as the book ended.
Being a romantic suspense there is sex but during that time a relationship is also built so when the end happens you know the author thought it out and it made sence. There were moments where the book would get a little to chatty but at the same time the author was building relationship with people in the town. I knew about half way though the book who the murderer was and a good idea why but the ending was still great and I loved the book.
At $7.34 for a 10 hour plus book it was a great listen and a bargain
Alexander Cendese did a great job with the delivery of the story.
Which includes being around Josh best friend Hayden Walsh an ER doctor. The investigation uncovers a dangerous secret, and one person will do anything including murder to keep that secret.
The mystery was great because you got to ride along trying to figure out who could be the murderer and who are the parents. The author didn't throw tons of suspicious characters at the reader instead the author made you care for everyone in the book even down to the murder. The book wasn't full of twist and turns that took away from the main mystery or romance instead they only helped build the story with the reader feeling very satisfied.
The romance between Boyd and Hayen was a little odd at first but at the same time it made sence as the book ended.
Being a romantic suspense there is sex but during that time a relationship is also built so when the end happens you know the author thought it out and it made sence. There were moments where the book would get a little to chatty but at the same time the author was building relationship with people in the town. I knew about half way though the book who the murderer was and a good idea why but the ending was still great and I loved the book.
At $7.34 for a 10 hour plus book it was a great listen and a bargain
Alexander Cendese did a great job with the delivery of the story.
September 7, 2014
This was a very good romantic suspense. The plot kept you turning the pages to find out what happens. I guessed early on who the villain was and thought the main character should have at least suspected that was the case long before the end of the book but it didn't detract any from my appreciation of the author's work. I love Norah Wilson's style and have always found her stories entertaining. In this one, Boyd is a cop trying to investigate his twin brother's death. Hayden was best friends with Josh and his death leaves a huge void in her life. When Boyd shows up and tells her he thinks Josh was murdered, she is stunned. She is also attracted to Boyd. The two brothers were quite different in every way but their looks and while she never saw Josh as anything but a friend, she can't get over the feelings she has for Boyd. Together, they work to find out what really happened to Josh and in the process put themselves in danger. Good page-turner with interesting characters and you even get to catch up with a few from previous works. Highly entertaining read.
September 15, 2014
“The reports stated Josh McBride’s death was from sudden cardiac arrest, but homicide detective Boyd McBride can’t shake the idea that his identical twin brother’s death was somehow connected to his search for the adopted boys’ birth parents. Josh must have been close to the truth…and it cost him his life.
When Boyd comes to medical resident Hayden Walsh’s ER looking for answers, she agrees to help with his investigation because Josh was a friend. As unnerved as she is by her attraction to the detective, she knows it will be impossible to avoid romantic entanglement…and the mess that comes with it.
The investigation uncovers dangerous secrets, and Boyd and Hayden’s passion ignites. Only they can keep each other safe from a threat that lurks inside a life-long mystery.”
I gave it a three star rating because until page 220 or so the book was the most boring piece of romance/suspense I have ever read! But once the story really got going it was great and I adored the ending although it was too fairy tale type!
When Boyd comes to medical resident Hayden Walsh’s ER looking for answers, she agrees to help with his investigation because Josh was a friend. As unnerved as she is by her attraction to the detective, she knows it will be impossible to avoid romantic entanglement…and the mess that comes with it.
The investigation uncovers dangerous secrets, and Boyd and Hayden’s passion ignites. Only they can keep each other safe from a threat that lurks inside a life-long mystery.”
I gave it a three star rating because until page 220 or so the book was the most boring piece of romance/suspense I have ever read! But once the story really got going it was great and I adored the ending although it was too fairy tale type!
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