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Mind Games
The #1 New York Times-bestselling author of Identity presents a suspenseful new novel of tragedy and trauma, love and family, and the evil that awaits.
As they do each June, the Foxes have driven the winding roads of Appalachia to drop off their children for a two-week stay at their grandmother’s. Here, twelve-year-old Thea can run free and breathe in the smells of pine and fresh bread and Grammie’s handmade candles. But as her parents head back to suburban Virginia, they have no idea they’re about to cross paths with a ticking time bomb.
Back in Kentucky, Thea and her grandmother Lucy both awaken from the same nightmare. And though the two have never discussed the special kind of sight they share, they know as soon as their tearful eyes meet that something terrible has happened.
The kids will be staying with Grammie now in Redbud Hollow, and thanks to Thea’s vision, their parents’ killer will spend his life in supermax. Over time, Thea will make friends, build a career, find love. But that ability to see into minds and souls still lurks within her, and though Grammie calls it a gift, it feels more like a curse―because the inmate who shattered her childhood has the same ability. Thea can hear his twisted thoughts and witness his evil acts from miles away. He knows it, and hungers for vengeance. A long, silent battle will be waged between them―and eventually bring them face to face, and head to head…
As they do each June, the Foxes have driven the winding roads of Appalachia to drop off their children for a two-week stay at their grandmother’s. Here, twelve-year-old Thea can run free and breathe in the smells of pine and fresh bread and Grammie’s handmade candles. But as her parents head back to suburban Virginia, they have no idea they’re about to cross paths with a ticking time bomb.
Back in Kentucky, Thea and her grandmother Lucy both awaken from the same nightmare. And though the two have never discussed the special kind of sight they share, they know as soon as their tearful eyes meet that something terrible has happened.
The kids will be staying with Grammie now in Redbud Hollow, and thanks to Thea’s vision, their parents’ killer will spend his life in supermax. Over time, Thea will make friends, build a career, find love. But that ability to see into minds and souls still lurks within her, and though Grammie calls it a gift, it feels more like a curse―because the inmate who shattered her childhood has the same ability. Thea can hear his twisted thoughts and witness his evil acts from miles away. He knows it, and hungers for vengeance. A long, silent battle will be waged between them―and eventually bring them face to face, and head to head…
422 pages, Hardcover
First published May 21, 2024
About the author
Nora Roberts
1,765 books55k followersNora Roberts is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of more than 200 novels, including Hideaway, Under Currents, Come Sundown, The Awakening, Legacy, and coming in November 2021 -- The Becoming -- the second book in The Dragon Heart Legacy. She is also the author of the futuristic suspense In Death series written under the pen name J.D. Robb. There are more than 500 million copies of her books in print.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,275 reviews
May 27, 2024
Mind Games written by Nora Roberts was absolutely MIND BLOWING!!!!!!! I get so excited and filled with so much joy when a book by Nora Roberts lands in my hands, but the anticipation for Mind Games was literally unreal. Nora never fails to amaze with her beautifully and ground breaking storytelling. Mind Games was no exception, I felt so many emotions while reading this book, I was happy, I was sad, I was scared, I was shocked, I was angry, I was heart broken, but by the end of the book I was filled with so much joy. I loved this book way more than I could ever explain, no amount of words I share will bring this book the justice it truly deserves. Mind Games is more than just a book written by one of my many favorite authors, there's romance, sadness, family, love, loss, finding happiness during hard times, there's a mystery, but most importantly there's MIND GAMES. Have I captured your attention yet? If not, let me just say the thrills were thrilling. I can't recommend Mind Games enough, please do yourself a favor and add this book to your never ending tbr shelf immediately. Have you ever read a book that it felt like the author sucker punched your heart with their words? Well, it felt like Nora Roberts left a hole in my heart.
THANK YOU TO NETGALLEY AND ST. MARTIN'S PRESS FOR AN ARC OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW!!!!!!!
Every single June right after school gets out for summer break, the Foxes have driven the winding and adrenaline pumping roads of Appalachia to drop off their children, Thea and Rem for a two week stay at their grandmother Lucy's house. In the Kentucky mountains, Thea can run free, breathe in the fresh smells of pine, her grandmother's homemade fresh baked bread, and Lucy's handmade candles. Rem can run around wild and play in the mud and just be a little boy whose enjoying his summer vacation with his sister and grandma. After dropping off their children, the Foxes head back to suburban Virginia to enjoy their peace and quiet, but while they are heading back to Virginia the Foxes have no idea they are about to cross paths with a ticking time bomb. One night back in Kentucky, Thea and Lucy both awaken to the exact same nightmare, though Thea and Lucy have never discussed the special kind of gift they both share, they know as soon as their tearful gazes meet one another in the dark night that something terrible has just happened to Rem and Thea's parents. Thea and Rem will no be spending the rest of their childhood growing up in Kentucky with their grandma, but thanks to Thea's special vision, their parents killer will spend the rest of his life in a super max prison.
Mind Games was dark and twisted, but I loved every single minute of it, I adored watching Thea and Rem grow up. Grammie Lucy is the grandma that everyone wants in their lives, she's loving, extremely supportive, and always there for her grandchildren through this difficult time, but she also has time for being a mother to her own children. Thea and Rem are the perfect type of siblings, they have a strong relationship and bond with one another after what they went through when they were children. Thea and Rem bicker like all siblings do, but they will always have each others backs no matter what. I absolutely loved and adored Grandma Lucy, she was such a sweet soul, but she definitely had a sassy side of her which was so cute and funny. It was so heart warming to see Rem and Thea lifting each other up after witnessing a grief that no child should ever have to experience. Let me be honest with y'all, I don't think I've ever cried reading a mystery/thriller before, but Mind Games destroyed me, the funeral for Rem and Thea's parents gutted me, it was utterly heart breaking. Grammie Lucy, Thea, and Rem will always have a special place in my heart, I don't think I could ever forget these sweet souls for a long time to come. Also, I can't forget about all the animals Lucy had at her house/farm, ugh, they were all so adorable and had the absolute cutest names ever.
THANK YOU TO NETGALLEY AND ST. MARTIN'S PRESS FOR AN ARC OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW!!!!!!!
Every single June right after school gets out for summer break, the Foxes have driven the winding and adrenaline pumping roads of Appalachia to drop off their children, Thea and Rem for a two week stay at their grandmother Lucy's house. In the Kentucky mountains, Thea can run free, breathe in the fresh smells of pine, her grandmother's homemade fresh baked bread, and Lucy's handmade candles. Rem can run around wild and play in the mud and just be a little boy whose enjoying his summer vacation with his sister and grandma. After dropping off their children, the Foxes head back to suburban Virginia to enjoy their peace and quiet, but while they are heading back to Virginia the Foxes have no idea they are about to cross paths with a ticking time bomb. One night back in Kentucky, Thea and Lucy both awaken to the exact same nightmare, though Thea and Lucy have never discussed the special kind of gift they both share, they know as soon as their tearful gazes meet one another in the dark night that something terrible has just happened to Rem and Thea's parents. Thea and Rem will no be spending the rest of their childhood growing up in Kentucky with their grandma, but thanks to Thea's special vision, their parents killer will spend the rest of his life in a super max prison.
Mind Games was dark and twisted, but I loved every single minute of it, I adored watching Thea and Rem grow up. Grammie Lucy is the grandma that everyone wants in their lives, she's loving, extremely supportive, and always there for her grandchildren through this difficult time, but she also has time for being a mother to her own children. Thea and Rem are the perfect type of siblings, they have a strong relationship and bond with one another after what they went through when they were children. Thea and Rem bicker like all siblings do, but they will always have each others backs no matter what. I absolutely loved and adored Grandma Lucy, she was such a sweet soul, but she definitely had a sassy side of her which was so cute and funny. It was so heart warming to see Rem and Thea lifting each other up after witnessing a grief that no child should ever have to experience. Let me be honest with y'all, I don't think I've ever cried reading a mystery/thriller before, but Mind Games destroyed me, the funeral for Rem and Thea's parents gutted me, it was utterly heart breaking. Grammie Lucy, Thea, and Rem will always have a special place in my heart, I don't think I could ever forget these sweet souls for a long time to come. Also, I can't forget about all the animals Lucy had at her house/farm, ugh, they were all so adorable and had the absolute cutest names ever.
August 22, 2024
Ohhh what to say about this one. Let me start off by saying I am a huge Nora Roberts fan; she is the reason I started reading and I will honestly probably read everything she releases, my feelings on her recent novels aside.
What I did like:
All of Nora's novels have great storylines and they're so easy for me to read. All of her main characters are always likeable and you always find yourself rooting for them. Thea and Ty were no different.
This was also a somewhat different direction from Nora's usual novel, and I did like that part. She does suspense and emotions very well, and the beginning of this book was a punch to the gut. She doesn't usually give us an up close view of what tragedies shaped the main characters, so being a part of Thea's parents murders was highly emotional and effective.
What I didn't like:
I don't think Nora's more recent novels can be primarily described as romance anymore. They're not the focal point at all, which is not a bad thing, but her novels have always been romance driven with another overarcing storyline. In this book, you don't even know who the MMC is until 46%. 46%! He was literally never on the page until then, so how are they supposed to organically grow in a romantic relationship with only half the book? And Ty doesn't even find out about the MAIN issue of the book until like 90%. No way to build a foundation imo.
Somewhat related, all of Nora's new novels now have the first THIRD of the book covering the FMC's childhood. For me, this is WAY too much. Background information and going through events in the MC's past is understandable, but it really takes away from the current timeline's growth and feeling connected to the characters during that time.
On top of all this, Nora's latest FMC's seem like the exact same person. They all have a very distinct way of speaking, and it's very unrealistic and maybe a little longwinded. It tends to take me out of the story because I'm constantly reacting to the dialogue and wondering who talks like this.
Overall, this book was entertaining, but I've been having all these same issues with her current novels. And I'm pretty sure she has to have a ghostwriter at this point. Would explain way her structure seemed to change and why I'm not jiving as much with her new releases.
Thank you to NetGalley and St Martins Press for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
What I did like:
All of Nora's novels have great storylines and they're so easy for me to read. All of her main characters are always likeable and you always find yourself rooting for them. Thea and Ty were no different.
This was also a somewhat different direction from Nora's usual novel, and I did like that part. She does suspense and emotions very well, and the beginning of this book was a punch to the gut. She doesn't usually give us an up close view of what tragedies shaped the main characters, so being a part of Thea's parents murders was highly emotional and effective.
What I didn't like:
I don't think Nora's more recent novels can be primarily described as romance anymore. They're not the focal point at all, which is not a bad thing, but her novels have always been romance driven with another overarcing storyline. In this book, you don't even know who the MMC is until 46%. 46%! He was literally never on the page until then, so how are they supposed to organically grow in a romantic relationship with only half the book? And Ty doesn't even find out about the MAIN issue of the book until like 90%. No way to build a foundation imo.
Somewhat related, all of Nora's new novels now have the first THIRD of the book covering the FMC's childhood. For me, this is WAY too much. Background information and going through events in the MC's past is understandable, but it really takes away from the current timeline's growth and feeling connected to the characters during that time.
On top of all this, Nora's latest FMC's seem like the exact same person. They all have a very distinct way of speaking, and it's very unrealistic and maybe a little longwinded. It tends to take me out of the story because I'm constantly reacting to the dialogue and wondering who talks like this.
Overall, this book was entertaining, but I've been having all these same issues with her current novels. And I'm pretty sure she has to have a ghostwriter at this point. Would explain way her structure seemed to change and why I'm not jiving as much with her new releases.
Thank you to NetGalley and St Martins Press for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
May 10, 2024
Love, loss, a special psychic gift, and family....
The Foxes have always dropped their children (Thea and Rem) off for a two week stay with their grandmother (Grammie) in Kentucky at the beginning of summer. It is a time for their children to run and play while their parents enjoy time alone. Thea and Grammie both have the same horrific nightmare and know that something tragic has happened. Due to Thea's vision, her parent's killer will be imprisoned for the rest of his life. Sadly, he shares the same gift as Thea.
As I began reading Mind Games, I was reminded of how much I enjoy Nora Robert's writing. I was instantly invested in this sweeping tale that follows Thea from the terrible summer where she lost her parents to the present. Thea went through many changes and challenges in her life. I enjoyed getting glimpses into Thea's life, her gift, her relationships with her grandmother, her brother, Ty, and his son.
This book had a little bit of everything that I enjoy in books - family, mystery, growth, drama, and romance. This book is full of great characters, and I especially enjoyed Grammie for her quiet strength, wisdom, and guidance.
This book kept me on my toes wanting more the entire book. I was lucky enough to have both the book and audiobook. I highly recommend the audiobook as the narrator was fantastic and did an outstanding job of bringing the characters to life.
Well written, well thought out, gripping, and captivating!
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
The Foxes have always dropped their children (Thea and Rem) off for a two week stay with their grandmother (Grammie) in Kentucky at the beginning of summer. It is a time for their children to run and play while their parents enjoy time alone. Thea and Grammie both have the same horrific nightmare and know that something tragic has happened. Due to Thea's vision, her parent's killer will be imprisoned for the rest of his life. Sadly, he shares the same gift as Thea.
As I began reading Mind Games, I was reminded of how much I enjoy Nora Robert's writing. I was instantly invested in this sweeping tale that follows Thea from the terrible summer where she lost her parents to the present. Thea went through many changes and challenges in her life. I enjoyed getting glimpses into Thea's life, her gift, her relationships with her grandmother, her brother, Ty, and his son.
This book had a little bit of everything that I enjoy in books - family, mystery, growth, drama, and romance. This book is full of great characters, and I especially enjoyed Grammie for her quiet strength, wisdom, and guidance.
This book kept me on my toes wanting more the entire book. I was lucky enough to have both the book and audiobook. I highly recommend the audiobook as the narrator was fantastic and did an outstanding job of bringing the characters to life.
Well written, well thought out, gripping, and captivating!
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
July 11, 2024
2.5 stars rounded up to 3! All of my friends rated this book 5 stars, so I am unfortunately an outlier on this one! I've read several Nora Roberts books and always enjoy them, but this one was a bit too far-fetched for my liking. I expect far-fetched when I'm reading fiction and that makes books enjoyable but for this one, it just didn't work great for me. The tragedy she experienced in her younger life was horrible but everything else in the book seemed too good to be true and made it hard for me to connect. Getting left with a massive trust fund, her school experience, how she landed the perfect job, her home she builds, her wonderful cooking, her love interest, etc. Those parts just feel too perfect and picturesque. I did really enjoy the Appalachia setting, Grammies farm & business, and all the animals. I loved Bray and Bunks characters and really enjoyed their parts, also. Nora Roberts is a wonderful author, and her writing is so detailed, and this book was no different in that aspect. This book is a winner for so many people so definitely check it out. I'm still a Nora Roberts fan and will for sure be checking her next book out.
Thank you, St. Martin's Press, and Net Galley, for a copy in return for my honest review.
Thank you, St. Martin's Press, and Net Galley, for a copy in return for my honest review.
September 3, 2024
The second week of June is 12-year-old Thea Fox’s favourite time of year – it even beats Christmas!
Because every summer Thea’s parents – Cora and John – drive her, her 10-year-old brother Rem, and their dog Cocoa all the way from their home in Fredericksburg, Virginia to Redbud Hollow, Kentucky to spend two wondrous weeks with their beloved Grammie – Lucy Lannigan. Their carefree days and nights at their Grammie’s tranquil house nestled in the hollow surrounded by nature, are filled with joy, laughter, and music – hiking the hills to visit neighbours, walking the dogs in the trees, making soaps and candles, watching the stars while eating homemade sundaes on the back porch – even the chores are fun!
Meanwhile, back in Fredericksburg, Cora and John enjoy two blissful weeks alone together, acting like newlyweds – more in love with every passing year.
But a week into their stay at Grammie’s, tragedy strikes. Cora and John are murdered in their home – targeted by a sick monster named Ray Riggs.
Days later, with Thea’s unique assistance, Ray is captured by police, and sentenced to life in prison with no possibility of parole. How? Because Thea and her parent's killer are unwittingly connected. Both have psychic visions – can see and feel what others are thinking, including each other. Thea’s ability is a pure gift, born of light and hope, which she uses to help people, to save lives, and never for personal gain. Ray reserves his for pure evil – to manipulate, blackmail, stalk, hurt, and kill. And when Thea dreams of Ray in his prison cell the psychic link between them is strengthened, and over the years Thea struggles to block him out. And all Ray Riggs wants is for Thea to pay for what she did to him – it’s his sole reason for existing.
Nora Roberts latest novel of romantic suspense, family saga, with a paranormal aspect was my favourite of hers since Carolina Moon (published in 2000). I think that one had a slight edge over Mind Games (although I think a re-read is in order to double-check that it has stood the test of time). Ray Riggs was a vicious, prevalent, psychopath, with no redeeming qualities, and the fact that he was psychic, made him even more terrifying, akin to Freddy Krueger. I’ve only seen this storyline (main character and killer connected by visions) done once before in the TV series Medium (2005 – 2011), so it was fairly unique to me, and just as chilling, particularly since Thea was 12 years old at the start. I wouldn’t go as far as to say that anything was overly graphic and gory, and I think the emotional slant that was always present helped with that, but there were violent scenes. But they remained as brief as possible and were minimal in terms of the overall plot.
However, thriller subplot aside my main takeaway from this is that it was a novel centered on love and family. Grammie was the ultimate Grandmother, supportive, encouraging, endlessly patient and giving. Her bond with Thea was so special – how she helped her understand, accept, and control her gift – a gift that all the women on Thea’s mother’s and Grammie’s side shared going back generations. The family unit made up of Grammie, Thea, and Rem was an unbreakable, tight-knit bond. Lucy referred to the three of them as ‘one big ball of wax’ which accurately summarises their closeness. Like all siblings, Thea and Rem would squabble, tease, and compete, but always had each others backs. Then there was the love between parent/s and children – Cora and John were only in the book for a short time, but it was obvious how much they loved Thea and Rem. As was Lucy’s love for her daughter and son-in-law (who she considered her son). Same goes for another parent/child relationship which needs to remain a secret. And, last but not least Thea’s romantic interest, who I’m also not going to reveal, because I spent the first nearly 50% of the novel thinking it was going to be someone else so let’s see if you fall for the same red herring as me! Oh, and I did enjoy who he turned out to be – wasn’t disappointed at all.
Another main theme throughout was the shock, anger, uncertainty, and grief associated not only with loss, but the violent senseless nature and suddenness of the manner in which Cora and John were ripped away, and the gaping hole, and lasting impact it left on family, friends, the community as a whole, and even strangers. I shed more than a few tears. Cora’s and John’s final moments on earth, their funeral, and Thea’s speech to detectives were heartbreaking. Kept tissues handy.
Just as important were Thea’s and Rem’s connection to their Grammie’s home – the way they were drawn to it, the sense of belonging, sanctuary, and safety it invoked (not only for them but everyone who visited) – and how they cherished and respected the land. I adored the farm to table lifestyle they embraced, taught to them by their beyond talented Grammie – the herbal medicine, customs and traditions passed down through generations, using natural ingredients in creative ways (Grammie’s homemade soaps and candles), mouth-watering food, and best of all, the dear animals (with their ingenious names). I could taste the fried chicken, breath in the mountain air, smell the lavender, hear the chickens clucking.
As you can see, I had a lot to say as there was so much about Mind Games that I loved. I could go on, but I’ll leave it there, and let you experience every high for yourself.
Because every summer Thea’s parents – Cora and John – drive her, her 10-year-old brother Rem, and their dog Cocoa all the way from their home in Fredericksburg, Virginia to Redbud Hollow, Kentucky to spend two wondrous weeks with their beloved Grammie – Lucy Lannigan. Their carefree days and nights at their Grammie’s tranquil house nestled in the hollow surrounded by nature, are filled with joy, laughter, and music – hiking the hills to visit neighbours, walking the dogs in the trees, making soaps and candles, watching the stars while eating homemade sundaes on the back porch – even the chores are fun!
Meanwhile, back in Fredericksburg, Cora and John enjoy two blissful weeks alone together, acting like newlyweds – more in love with every passing year.
But a week into their stay at Grammie’s, tragedy strikes. Cora and John are murdered in their home – targeted by a sick monster named Ray Riggs.
Days later, with Thea’s unique assistance, Ray is captured by police, and sentenced to life in prison with no possibility of parole. How? Because Thea and her parent's killer are unwittingly connected. Both have psychic visions – can see and feel what others are thinking, including each other. Thea’s ability is a pure gift, born of light and hope, which she uses to help people, to save lives, and never for personal gain. Ray reserves his for pure evil – to manipulate, blackmail, stalk, hurt, and kill. And when Thea dreams of Ray in his prison cell the psychic link between them is strengthened, and over the years Thea struggles to block him out. And all Ray Riggs wants is for Thea to pay for what she did to him – it’s his sole reason for existing.
Nora Roberts latest novel of romantic suspense, family saga, with a paranormal aspect was my favourite of hers since Carolina Moon (published in 2000). I think that one had a slight edge over Mind Games (although I think a re-read is in order to double-check that it has stood the test of time). Ray Riggs was a vicious, prevalent, psychopath, with no redeeming qualities, and the fact that he was psychic, made him even more terrifying, akin to Freddy Krueger. I’ve only seen this storyline (main character and killer connected by visions) done once before in the TV series Medium (2005 – 2011), so it was fairly unique to me, and just as chilling, particularly since Thea was 12 years old at the start. I wouldn’t go as far as to say that anything was overly graphic and gory, and I think the emotional slant that was always present helped with that, but there were violent scenes. But they remained as brief as possible and were minimal in terms of the overall plot.
However, thriller subplot aside my main takeaway from this is that it was a novel centered on love and family. Grammie was the ultimate Grandmother, supportive, encouraging, endlessly patient and giving. Her bond with Thea was so special – how she helped her understand, accept, and control her gift – a gift that all the women on Thea’s mother’s and Grammie’s side shared going back generations. The family unit made up of Grammie, Thea, and Rem was an unbreakable, tight-knit bond. Lucy referred to the three of them as ‘one big ball of wax’ which accurately summarises their closeness. Like all siblings, Thea and Rem would squabble, tease, and compete, but always had each others backs. Then there was the love between parent/s and children – Cora and John were only in the book for a short time, but it was obvious how much they loved Thea and Rem. As was Lucy’s love for her daughter and son-in-law (who she considered her son). Same goes for another parent/child relationship which needs to remain a secret. And, last but not least Thea’s romantic interest, who I’m also not going to reveal, because I spent the first nearly 50% of the novel thinking it was going to be someone else so let’s see if you fall for the same red herring as me! Oh, and I did enjoy who he turned out to be – wasn’t disappointed at all.
Another main theme throughout was the shock, anger, uncertainty, and grief associated not only with loss, but the violent senseless nature and suddenness of the manner in which Cora and John were ripped away, and the gaping hole, and lasting impact it left on family, friends, the community as a whole, and even strangers. I shed more than a few tears. Cora’s and John’s final moments on earth, their funeral, and Thea’s speech to detectives were heartbreaking. Kept tissues handy.
Just as important were Thea’s and Rem’s connection to their Grammie’s home – the way they were drawn to it, the sense of belonging, sanctuary, and safety it invoked (not only for them but everyone who visited) – and how they cherished and respected the land. I adored the farm to table lifestyle they embraced, taught to them by their beyond talented Grammie – the herbal medicine, customs and traditions passed down through generations, using natural ingredients in creative ways (Grammie’s homemade soaps and candles), mouth-watering food, and best of all, the dear animals (with their ingenious names). I could taste the fried chicken, breath in the mountain air, smell the lavender, hear the chickens clucking.
As you can see, I had a lot to say as there was so much about Mind Games that I loved. I could go on, but I’ll leave it there, and let you experience every high for yourself.
September 25, 2024
5 Stars
Mind Games was both riveting and compelling. I paired the e-arc with the audiobook, narrated by January LaVoy, which is one of my favourites. January LaVoy was excellent at differentiating between the many characters throughout the storytelling. Lavoy emotes the characters' grief, heartbreak, and joy through her narration. She did an outstanding job. She brought me along for the ride. With bringing them alive, I could picture them in my mind's eye. It was well-paced and cleverly written. I was captivated from beginning to end and had difficulty saying goodbye to the characters.
John and Cora Fox lived the ideal life with their two children, Thea, their twelve-year-old daughter and Rem, Thea's 10-year-old younger brother, in Fredericksburg, Virginia. The family lived in Virginia in a beautiful neighbourhood and lived comfortably. Thea's parents worked together. John specialized in Real Estate, and Cora was an Interior Designer. They had a healthy and happy marriage that had not lost any of its spark or magic even after all these years. Every year at the end of June, Thea and Rem receive a special treat they look forward to all year. John and Cora packed up their car and headed to Kentucky, where Thea and Rem spent two weeks with their Grammie, Lucy. Their parents enjoyed some alone time at home in Fredericksburg while the children were with Grammie. Redbud Hollow was Thea's and Rem's favourite place to visit. Thea and Rem spent two weeks with their Grammie and loved every minute. Lucy lived on a farm where she grew many fruits and vegetables and raised several animals, including chickens and goats. She also made homemade soaps, lotions, candles and special homemade medicinal remedies called Mountain Magic that she sold and bartered to the people in their community in Redbud Hollow
Shortly after Thea and Rem arrived at Grammie Lucy's house, Thea was awoken from sleep one night by a horrific and vivid vision. Like all the women on her mother's side of the family, Thea had a unique and special gift. She was born able to see things sometimes before they occurred and sometimes while they were happening. That night, Thea was able to see a man break into her parent's house while her parents were sleeping in their bedroom. Not only could Thea see what this terrible man was doing, but she could read his mind. They knew he was planning to murder her parents. As the intruder passed Thea's portrait in the hallway, he felt like someone was watching him; Thea realized that this man possessed the same ability as she did. Thea witnessed the horrific murder of both of her parents. She watched and was defenceless, though, to save them. Thea and Rem lost both of their parents that night. The only good thing was that Thea knew precisely where and who the man who murdered her parents looked like, and because she was able to read his mind, she knew exactly where he was planning to go after he left her childhood home. Thea, with Grammies's encouragement, helped the police catch the man who had murdered her parents by supplying them with all the details Thea had recovered by getting inside the man's head. She helped put him in prison for the rest of his life with the details she was able to tell the police officers.
Cora's mother and Thea's and Rem's grandmother, Lucy Lannigan, had been named as the legal guardian for Thea and Rem by Cora and John Fox in their will if anything ever happened to them. Grammie Lucy embraced both Thea and Rem and lovingly made a safe and nurturing home for both Thea and Rem. Both Thea and Rem healed over time, but Thea never forgot. Even though the murderer was in prison, he was often able to torment Thea and get inside her head as the years progressed. They made good friends in Redbud Hollow, attended college, built lucrative and successful careers, and Thea eventually found love. Through all those years, though, the inmate's voice and actions never left Thea's mind. And it was starting to take its toll on her mind and body. How could Thea sever the connection and rid herself of him once and for all?
I enjoyed listening to Mind Games by Nora Roberts. It portrays the true meaning of family, finding friendship, romance, and purpose in life. It exemplified the way the same gift could produce different outcomes. Both Thea and the man who murdered her parents had the unique ability to see things, but Thea used her gift to help others and for good causes, and the man used him to perform evil acts, which often involved using violence. Over time, Thea learned to trust others again. I enjoyed the cast of characters in Mind Games. The ending was satisfying, and all the loose pieces tied together nicely. I didn't want this book to end. I am hoping there will be a sequel. I am keeping my fingers crossed. 🤞The touch of magic infused within the story was perfection. (IMO)— I highly recommend you read this book; the audio is essential. You won't be disappointed!!
Thank you, St. Martin’s Press, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley, for allowing me to listen to and read an e-arc and alc of Mind Games by Nora Roberts in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
————————————————————————————————————————-————————————————————————————————————————-
Pre full review Full RTC… ⭐️
I was lucky to get access to an arc and an alc and paired them. January Lavoy did an outstanding job narrating the characters. She brought so much emotion to the characters. She breathed life into each character that gripped me and didn’t let go until the end. Her emotional narrative brought me to tears at times. I highly recommend listening to the audio! Nora Roberts is a master when it comes to writing compelling three-dimensional characters. Readers can easily relate to, empathize with, and feel contempt for others and become spellbound until the final page. It is 4:00 a.m. I need to sleep.
Happy Victoria Day, Canadians, eh! Lol😂 🇨🇦❤️
Mind Games was both riveting and compelling. I paired the e-arc with the audiobook, narrated by January LaVoy, which is one of my favourites. January LaVoy was excellent at differentiating between the many characters throughout the storytelling. Lavoy emotes the characters' grief, heartbreak, and joy through her narration. She did an outstanding job. She brought me along for the ride. With bringing them alive, I could picture them in my mind's eye. It was well-paced and cleverly written. I was captivated from beginning to end and had difficulty saying goodbye to the characters.
John and Cora Fox lived the ideal life with their two children, Thea, their twelve-year-old daughter and Rem, Thea's 10-year-old younger brother, in Fredericksburg, Virginia. The family lived in Virginia in a beautiful neighbourhood and lived comfortably. Thea's parents worked together. John specialized in Real Estate, and Cora was an Interior Designer. They had a healthy and happy marriage that had not lost any of its spark or magic even after all these years. Every year at the end of June, Thea and Rem receive a special treat they look forward to all year. John and Cora packed up their car and headed to Kentucky, where Thea and Rem spent two weeks with their Grammie, Lucy. Their parents enjoyed some alone time at home in Fredericksburg while the children were with Grammie. Redbud Hollow was Thea's and Rem's favourite place to visit. Thea and Rem spent two weeks with their Grammie and loved every minute. Lucy lived on a farm where she grew many fruits and vegetables and raised several animals, including chickens and goats. She also made homemade soaps, lotions, candles and special homemade medicinal remedies called Mountain Magic that she sold and bartered to the people in their community in Redbud Hollow
Shortly after Thea and Rem arrived at Grammie Lucy's house, Thea was awoken from sleep one night by a horrific and vivid vision. Like all the women on her mother's side of the family, Thea had a unique and special gift. She was born able to see things sometimes before they occurred and sometimes while they were happening. That night, Thea was able to see a man break into her parent's house while her parents were sleeping in their bedroom. Not only could Thea see what this terrible man was doing, but she could read his mind. They knew he was planning to murder her parents. As the intruder passed Thea's portrait in the hallway, he felt like someone was watching him; Thea realized that this man possessed the same ability as she did. Thea witnessed the horrific murder of both of her parents. She watched and was defenceless, though, to save them. Thea and Rem lost both of their parents that night. The only good thing was that Thea knew precisely where and who the man who murdered her parents looked like, and because she was able to read his mind, she knew exactly where he was planning to go after he left her childhood home. Thea, with Grammies's encouragement, helped the police catch the man who had murdered her parents by supplying them with all the details Thea had recovered by getting inside the man's head. She helped put him in prison for the rest of his life with the details she was able to tell the police officers.
Cora's mother and Thea's and Rem's grandmother, Lucy Lannigan, had been named as the legal guardian for Thea and Rem by Cora and John Fox in their will if anything ever happened to them. Grammie Lucy embraced both Thea and Rem and lovingly made a safe and nurturing home for both Thea and Rem. Both Thea and Rem healed over time, but Thea never forgot. Even though the murderer was in prison, he was often able to torment Thea and get inside her head as the years progressed. They made good friends in Redbud Hollow, attended college, built lucrative and successful careers, and Thea eventually found love. Through all those years, though, the inmate's voice and actions never left Thea's mind. And it was starting to take its toll on her mind and body. How could Thea sever the connection and rid herself of him once and for all?
I enjoyed listening to Mind Games by Nora Roberts. It portrays the true meaning of family, finding friendship, romance, and purpose in life. It exemplified the way the same gift could produce different outcomes. Both Thea and the man who murdered her parents had the unique ability to see things, but Thea used her gift to help others and for good causes, and the man used him to perform evil acts, which often involved using violence. Over time, Thea learned to trust others again. I enjoyed the cast of characters in Mind Games. The ending was satisfying, and all the loose pieces tied together nicely. I didn't want this book to end. I am hoping there will be a sequel. I am keeping my fingers crossed. 🤞The touch of magic infused within the story was perfection. (IMO)— I highly recommend you read this book; the audio is essential. You won't be disappointed!!
Thank you, St. Martin’s Press, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley, for allowing me to listen to and read an e-arc and alc of Mind Games by Nora Roberts in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
————————————————————————————————————————-————————————————————————————————————————-
Pre full review Full RTC… ⭐️
I was lucky to get access to an arc and an alc and paired them. January Lavoy did an outstanding job narrating the characters. She brought so much emotion to the characters. She breathed life into each character that gripped me and didn’t let go until the end. Her emotional narrative brought me to tears at times. I highly recommend listening to the audio! Nora Roberts is a master when it comes to writing compelling three-dimensional characters. Readers can easily relate to, empathize with, and feel contempt for others and become spellbound until the final page. It is 4:00 a.m. I need to sleep.
Happy Victoria Day, Canadians, eh! Lol😂 🇨🇦❤️
May 16, 2024
It's almost release day!!!!
A Nora Roberts book is a highlight of my reading year.
The book was much more than expected:
✔️ former rockstar hero
✔️ single dad
✔️ video game designer heroine
✔️ small town
✔️ close-knit family
✔️ cute child and dog
and if you are like me, you are going to devour this book!!
Mind Games is a captivating story about a girl becoming a woman and her rather unique gift. She was a really fascinating heroine. Strong but also vulnerable, dedicated and smart. And the support she got from her family and friends was heart-warming.
Especially the cast surrounding her was what makes this book such a wonderful read.
Her grandmother ♡ - I have so much love for her!!!
I had the best time with Mind Games. Loved the story, the setting and the closeness of the characters. There were so many parts of this book, scenes, and little tidbits that were utterly charming and endearing. And I love it when an author gives me actual background to a story. When I feel like I'm right there, moving through the years with the characters, witnessing them grow and change.
Most of all, the ending was surprisingly different and cool, and nothing like I expected. BRAVO!!
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
A Nora Roberts book is a highlight of my reading year.
The book was much more than expected:
✔️ former rockstar hero
✔️ single dad
✔️ video game designer heroine
✔️ small town
✔️ close-knit family
✔️ cute child and dog
and if you are like me, you are going to devour this book!!
Mind Games is a captivating story about a girl becoming a woman and her rather unique gift. She was a really fascinating heroine. Strong but also vulnerable, dedicated and smart. And the support she got from her family and friends was heart-warming.
Especially the cast surrounding her was what makes this book such a wonderful read.
Her grandmother ♡ - I have so much love for her!!!
I had the best time with Mind Games. Loved the story, the setting and the closeness of the characters. There were so many parts of this book, scenes, and little tidbits that were utterly charming and endearing. And I love it when an author gives me actual background to a story. When I feel like I'm right there, moving through the years with the characters, witnessing them grow and change.
Most of all, the ending was surprisingly different and cool, and nothing like I expected. BRAVO!!
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
April 22, 2024
Roberts delivers another winner with this book. I really enjoy how she adds a touch of supernatural to ordinary tales. The story's setup is intriguing: a young girl with telekinetic powers sees something terrifying. It leaves a lasting mark on her, both physically and mentally. This book blends different genres seamlessly, making it a captivating read.
Thank you Netgalley and Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to listen and review this audiobook ARC.
Thank you Netgalley and Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to listen and review this audiobook ARC.
May 23, 2024
the setup…
John and Cora Fox take their two children, twelve-year old Thea and ten-year old Rem, to visit their maternal grandmother Lucy in the Appalachian hills of Kentucky every June. This year is extra special as the kids will spend two weeks this time in the place they love with the woman they adore. John and Cora return to Virginia, taking advantage of some precious alone time. But soon after they get home, Thea and Lucy wake from a horrific nightmare where they witness John and Cora’s murder. Thea has inherited the “gift” passed through the maternal bloodline but it’s much stronger than Lucy’s. You see, not only did Thea witness everything that happened to her parents in real time, she could see it through the mind and eyes of the killer.
the heart of the story…
Despite the tragic beginning, this felt more like a loving tribute to the spirit and beauty of an Appalachian community in Kentucky. Thea and Rem were raised with loving and kindness but with an appreciation for hard work, nature and looking out for your neighbors. They thrive as they mature and though Thea learns how to manage her gift, she never loses the connection to the inmate who killed her parents. There was always something sinister brewing in the background, even while Thea moved on with her life, finding a career and romance in the meantime. You just knew a reckoning was coming.
the narration…
LaVoy just keeps surprising me! I could have sworn there were three separate narrators…for the women, the men and the children. She’s a gifted performer.
the bottom line…
This is a moving saga covering more than a decade. Its conflation of several genres made it even more fascinating, especially Thea’s extraordinary gift of sight. I loved Lucy’s way of life that she passed down to her grandchildren who embraced it willingly. Thea’s romance was lovely, even when it hit a bumpy path. There’s so much breadth and grace here to offset the evil of Thea’s mental nemesis who is dangerous and scary. I didn’t want it to end, even after 15 hours! If you have the option to listen to the book, choose it because LaVoy is incredible.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
John and Cora Fox take their two children, twelve-year old Thea and ten-year old Rem, to visit their maternal grandmother Lucy in the Appalachian hills of Kentucky every June. This year is extra special as the kids will spend two weeks this time in the place they love with the woman they adore. John and Cora return to Virginia, taking advantage of some precious alone time. But soon after they get home, Thea and Lucy wake from a horrific nightmare where they witness John and Cora’s murder. Thea has inherited the “gift” passed through the maternal bloodline but it’s much stronger than Lucy’s. You see, not only did Thea witness everything that happened to her parents in real time, she could see it through the mind and eyes of the killer.
the heart of the story…
Despite the tragic beginning, this felt more like a loving tribute to the spirit and beauty of an Appalachian community in Kentucky. Thea and Rem were raised with loving and kindness but with an appreciation for hard work, nature and looking out for your neighbors. They thrive as they mature and though Thea learns how to manage her gift, she never loses the connection to the inmate who killed her parents. There was always something sinister brewing in the background, even while Thea moved on with her life, finding a career and romance in the meantime. You just knew a reckoning was coming.
the narration…
LaVoy just keeps surprising me! I could have sworn there were three separate narrators…for the women, the men and the children. She’s a gifted performer.
the bottom line…
This is a moving saga covering more than a decade. Its conflation of several genres made it even more fascinating, especially Thea’s extraordinary gift of sight. I loved Lucy’s way of life that she passed down to her grandchildren who embraced it willingly. Thea’s romance was lovely, even when it hit a bumpy path. There’s so much breadth and grace here to offset the evil of Thea’s mental nemesis who is dangerous and scary. I didn’t want it to end, even after 15 hours! If you have the option to listen to the book, choose it because LaVoy is incredible.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
February 23, 2024
Such a magical subtle way of writing. This one meanders and weaves you into a twisted but amazing story.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This author could tell a story about the phone book and I would probably read it. She has a magical gift of storytelling that is like no other.
This book was so subtle with the way the story slowly changes and becomes more charged the further you dive into the pages. I love the small-town, down-home atmosphere that captivates your senses. The relationship’s developed and the culture of the Appalachians is strong in this one.
Mind Games is a story about unique gifts and growing up “different” than the others. It gives us strong family connections, amazing friendships, and doing for others.
It also brings horrible crimes and evil to shatter the peacefulness. It is about doing the right thing, control, and righteous payback which brings us to a fabulous, sweet ending!
Roberts is the Queen of her own mind games that she weaves into her stories to grab our attention. This story is twisted in many ways, but the satisfaction you find at the end makes it all worthwhile!
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full Review - https://amidlifewife.com/mind-games-b...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This author could tell a story about the phone book and I would probably read it. She has a magical gift of storytelling that is like no other.
This book was so subtle with the way the story slowly changes and becomes more charged the further you dive into the pages. I love the small-town, down-home atmosphere that captivates your senses. The relationship’s developed and the culture of the Appalachians is strong in this one.
Mind Games is a story about unique gifts and growing up “different” than the others. It gives us strong family connections, amazing friendships, and doing for others.
It also brings horrible crimes and evil to shatter the peacefulness. It is about doing the right thing, control, and righteous payback which brings us to a fabulous, sweet ending!
Roberts is the Queen of her own mind games that she weaves into her stories to grab our attention. This story is twisted in many ways, but the satisfaction you find at the end makes it all worthwhile!
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full Review - https://amidlifewife.com/mind-games-b...
September 14, 2024
I am just in awe of Nora Robert’s I have only read/ listened to her books & yes this is only my second book, her writing is like a breath of fresh air to the soul.
I am just going to describe my thoughts on Mind Games by Nora Robert’s narrated by January Lavoy it was heart wrenching thrilling unput downable the story is about Family, relationships & a beautiful love story between Thea & Tyler who’s romance was written with such tenderness & warmth.
All the Stars 🌟
I am just going to describe my thoughts on Mind Games by Nora Robert’s narrated by January Lavoy it was heart wrenching thrilling unput downable the story is about Family, relationships & a beautiful love story between Thea & Tyler who’s romance was written with such tenderness & warmth.
All the Stars 🌟
May 15, 2024
Mind Games by Nora Roberts is a romantic suspense novel that has a paranormal edge to it with the main character being psychic. The story follows the characters over decades of their lives after one fateful event.
At twelve years old Thea and her younger brother look forward to their time in Eastern Kentucky in the Appalachia area with their grandmother. Each summer their parents make the trip from their home in Virginia to Kentucky to drop the kids off and it’s almost as much fun as Christmas for the kids.
This summer however the magical time to be a child is cut short when one night
Thea and her grandmother awaken from a shared nightmare. Both know that the unthinkable has happened all the way in Virginia, Thea’s parents have been murdered by an intruder as they watched it happen. For Thea though that nightmare had an even more ominous feel when the man responsible seemed to connect to her as she watches it all play out.
Mind Games by Nora Roberts is really a slow burn novel coming in at over four hundred pages and following this family over such a long time period. For me being someone that can get very antsy with slow burns I was surprised to find myself really enjoying this story as it went along and not getting too impatient for the conclusion the way I often do. I loved the setting and characters and their growth throughout and the paranormal side certainly gave a eerie and suspenseful edge that kept the pages turning. When finished I would most definitely recommend checking this one out.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
At twelve years old Thea and her younger brother look forward to their time in Eastern Kentucky in the Appalachia area with their grandmother. Each summer their parents make the trip from their home in Virginia to Kentucky to drop the kids off and it’s almost as much fun as Christmas for the kids.
This summer however the magical time to be a child is cut short when one night
Thea and her grandmother awaken from a shared nightmare. Both know that the unthinkable has happened all the way in Virginia, Thea’s parents have been murdered by an intruder as they watched it happen. For Thea though that nightmare had an even more ominous feel when the man responsible seemed to connect to her as she watches it all play out.
Mind Games by Nora Roberts is really a slow burn novel coming in at over four hundred pages and following this family over such a long time period. For me being someone that can get very antsy with slow burns I was surprised to find myself really enjoying this story as it went along and not getting too impatient for the conclusion the way I often do. I loved the setting and characters and their growth throughout and the paranormal side certainly gave a eerie and suspenseful edge that kept the pages turning. When finished I would most definitely recommend checking this one out.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
June 10, 2024
Please note that I received this book via NetGalley. This did not affect my rating or review.
Well I wavered on this one. Honestly this is a 2.5 star read. I just rounded up to 3 stars for Goodreads.
"Mind Games" follows young Thea Fox who along with her brother, are dropped off for the annual vacation at their grandmother's home in Appalachia. Thea though while staying "sees" a man who ends up breaking into her parents home and murders them. Due to Thea, the man is arrested and jailed. But Thea realizes this man has the same "gift" that she does and through the decades she does what she can to stop him.
Look. I don't know guys. This was just not good. I think because though I love how Roberts takes her time setting up her stories. This one went on forever. I got tired of reading about Thea and what she saw. Thea, her brother, and even the grandmother are not that interesting to spend time with. I think a lot of things kept getting glossed over that I had to tell myself to be quiet about (such as if only women have the gift in Thea's family, why did [redacted] have it as well? Did anyone else in his family? It just seemed like a random thing to toss in so he could keep popping up like a bad penny).
The other characters don't really work for me outside of the love interest's child. And of course Thea's dog. I just felt very bored because reading about someone having mental fights with someone is not an interesting book.
And since it took til almost the 50 percent mark for the love interest to show up, this whole book barely got the "romantic suspense" designation in my opinion.
The ending was just kind of a mess. Sorry. I get there was supposedly a whole games aspect to it, but it just didn't work and I kind of went...okay then. Moving on.
Well I wavered on this one. Honestly this is a 2.5 star read. I just rounded up to 3 stars for Goodreads.
"Mind Games" follows young Thea Fox who along with her brother, are dropped off for the annual vacation at their grandmother's home in Appalachia. Thea though while staying "sees" a man who ends up breaking into her parents home and murders them. Due to Thea, the man is arrested and jailed. But Thea realizes this man has the same "gift" that she does and through the decades she does what she can to stop him.
Look. I don't know guys. This was just not good. I think because though I love how Roberts takes her time setting up her stories. This one went on forever. I got tired of reading about Thea and what she saw. Thea, her brother, and even the grandmother are not that interesting to spend time with. I think a lot of things kept getting glossed over that I had to tell myself to be quiet about (such as if only women have the gift in Thea's family, why did [redacted] have it as well? Did anyone else in his family? It just seemed like a random thing to toss in so he could keep popping up like a bad penny).
The other characters don't really work for me outside of the love interest's child. And of course Thea's dog. I just felt very bored because reading about someone having mental fights with someone is not an interesting book.
And since it took til almost the 50 percent mark for the love interest to show up, this whole book barely got the "romantic suspense" designation in my opinion.
The ending was just kind of a mess. Sorry. I get there was supposedly a whole games aspect to it, but it just didn't work and I kind of went...okay then. Moving on.
June 6, 2024
Nora Roberts is a favorite author, so it was a no-brainer to pick this one up. I always enjoy her books, whether writing as Nora Roberts or J.D. Robb.
Description:
As they do each June, the Foxes have driven the winding roads of Appalachia to drop off their children for a two-week stay at their grandmother’s. Here, twelve-year-old Thea can run free and breathe in the smells of pine and fresh bread and Grammie’s handmade candles. But as her parents head back to suburban Virginia, they have no idea they’re about to cross paths with a ticking time bomb.
Back in Kentucky, Thea and her grandmother Lucy both awaken from the same nightmare. And though the two have never discussed the special kind of sight they share, they know as soon as their tearful eyes meet that something terrible has happened.
The kids will be staying with Grammie now in Redbud Hollow, and thanks to Thea’s vision, their parents’ killer will spend his life in supermax. Over time, Thea will make friends, build a career, find love. But that ability to see into minds and souls still lurks within her, and though Grammie calls it a gift, it feels more like a curse―because the inmate who shattered her childhood has the same ability. Thea can hear his twisted thoughts and witness his evil acts from miles away. He knows it, and hungers for vengeance. A long, silent battle will be waged between them―and eventually bring them face to face, and head to head…
My Thoughts:
The "gift" that both Thea and the killer have gets scarier and escalates tension through the book. The family life with Grammie is sweet and I loved the way Thea and her brother got along. I certainly would like to live in a community like Redbud Hollow. The romance was epic - I really like the teenage crush angle. These are great characters and I liked them all - except for the killer and that is intentional, we have to hate him. I even ended up liking the skeptical detective in the end. I would recommend this to anyone who likes a good story with a paranormal aspect.
Thanks to St. Martin's Press through Netgalley for an advance copy.
Description:
As they do each June, the Foxes have driven the winding roads of Appalachia to drop off their children for a two-week stay at their grandmother’s. Here, twelve-year-old Thea can run free and breathe in the smells of pine and fresh bread and Grammie’s handmade candles. But as her parents head back to suburban Virginia, they have no idea they’re about to cross paths with a ticking time bomb.
Back in Kentucky, Thea and her grandmother Lucy both awaken from the same nightmare. And though the two have never discussed the special kind of sight they share, they know as soon as their tearful eyes meet that something terrible has happened.
The kids will be staying with Grammie now in Redbud Hollow, and thanks to Thea’s vision, their parents’ killer will spend his life in supermax. Over time, Thea will make friends, build a career, find love. But that ability to see into minds and souls still lurks within her, and though Grammie calls it a gift, it feels more like a curse―because the inmate who shattered her childhood has the same ability. Thea can hear his twisted thoughts and witness his evil acts from miles away. He knows it, and hungers for vengeance. A long, silent battle will be waged between them―and eventually bring them face to face, and head to head…
My Thoughts:
The "gift" that both Thea and the killer have gets scarier and escalates tension through the book. The family life with Grammie is sweet and I loved the way Thea and her brother got along. I certainly would like to live in a community like Redbud Hollow. The romance was epic - I really like the teenage crush angle. These are great characters and I liked them all - except for the killer and that is intentional, we have to hate him. I even ended up liking the skeptical detective in the end. I would recommend this to anyone who likes a good story with a paranormal aspect.
Thanks to St. Martin's Press through Netgalley for an advance copy.
May 19, 2024
Mind Games by Nora Roberts
Romantic suspense, thriller. Slightly paranormal with mental telepathy.
Cora and John Fox drop their children off with their Grandmother in the Appalachia countryside where they can play, do chores and basically have a vacation. The children love their time with Grammie Lucy. Thea and Lucy wake up one night after witnessing via nightmare, the brutal killings of Cora and John. Lucy is only twelve but she’s able to give the police enough details about the killer that he’s soon found and put in jail. But putting him behind a locked door won’t keep him out of Thea’s thoughts. He knows that somehow she saw what he did and he won’t rest, or leave her alone, until she’s as dead as the others.
🎧 I alternated reading this between an ebook and audiobook. The audiobook is narrated by January LaVoy who has narrated many books by this author. After listening to the audiobook, I’m was surprised it was a singular narrator as there a distinct voices for several of the characters. The performance was tense when it needed to be and had me in tears during the emotional scenes. I was drawn into the story immediately which is usual for this author. Between reading an ebook and listening to the narrative, I would recommend going with whichever format is your preferred. For me, I hear the accents better in audio which makes it less visual bit more impactful.
I listened to this at my usual 1.5 speed.
Both media formats are equally thrilling and absorbing. Get your homework and tasks done first. Once you start this book, you’re not going to want to put it down until the very end.
Gripping and enthralling.
I received this book from NetGalley and publisher Macmillan Audio.
Romantic suspense, thriller. Slightly paranormal with mental telepathy.
Cora and John Fox drop their children off with their Grandmother in the Appalachia countryside where they can play, do chores and basically have a vacation. The children love their time with Grammie Lucy. Thea and Lucy wake up one night after witnessing via nightmare, the brutal killings of Cora and John. Lucy is only twelve but she’s able to give the police enough details about the killer that he’s soon found and put in jail. But putting him behind a locked door won’t keep him out of Thea’s thoughts. He knows that somehow she saw what he did and he won’t rest, or leave her alone, until she’s as dead as the others.
🎧 I alternated reading this between an ebook and audiobook. The audiobook is narrated by January LaVoy who has narrated many books by this author. After listening to the audiobook, I’m was surprised it was a singular narrator as there a distinct voices for several of the characters. The performance was tense when it needed to be and had me in tears during the emotional scenes. I was drawn into the story immediately which is usual for this author. Between reading an ebook and listening to the narrative, I would recommend going with whichever format is your preferred. For me, I hear the accents better in audio which makes it less visual bit more impactful.
I listened to this at my usual 1.5 speed.
Both media formats are equally thrilling and absorbing. Get your homework and tasks done first. Once you start this book, you’re not going to want to put it down until the very end.
Gripping and enthralling.
I received this book from NetGalley and publisher Macmillan Audio.
August 5, 2024
5 Stars
Heartbreak, healing, and full of so much hope, wonder and love, Mind Games is another shining example of how Nora Roberts is (and will always be) the Queen of the romance genre.
This story was absolutely breathtaking on every level. The plot, the characters, the relationship dynamics, the setting, the writing quality… it was all exquisite.
This one doesn’t shy away from heavier themes and feelings, with a three-part story that spans decades of personal growth and healing in the lives of a family devastated by deeply traumatic and life-altering loss.
The first part was a doozy, quickly and profoundly setting the idyllic scene in rural Kentucky, introducing then twelve-year-old psychically-gifted protagonist Thea Fox and her family, establishing their deep love for one another, right before killing-off her parents in a brutal murder, witnessed by Thea, hundreds of miles away, in her dreams.
I couldn’t believe how deeply affected I was by the happenings in the first 100 pages (or more). The fact Roberts' was able to so quickly endear me to all the characters, creating very layered dynamics and very real bonds of love between everyone involved, just goes to show she’s a master at character driven stories.
I spent about 80 of those first-part pages breaking down in tears, sobbing over the trauma and loss the surviving family endured. Moved even more by the phenomenal ways Thea, her brother (Rem) and her grandmother (Lucy) came together, supporting each other during this time and lifting each other up to face the worst of their grief together. It was really moving and probably not something I’ll soon forget.
Part-two was more mellow and full of hope and promise, showcasing how Thea and Rem grew into adulthood, raised by Lucy who taught them how to not only survive their past hurts, but to actively heal in the present and thrive in their future endeavours. This portion of the story put my heart at ease, knowing these characters would all be okay, unbroken by the trauma once inflicted on them.
The final part brought new faces to town and saw Thea falling in love, while actively facing off (in her connected mind) with the monster who killed her parents all those years ago. This part was intense at times, as expected, but the sweetness of Thea’s love interest and his darling son made the hard parts easier to bear, for Thea and for me as a reader.
Handled by any other author, Thea’s psychic abilities, and how they manifested throughout the story, could have been a bit silly and far-fetched, but I absolutely loved the way this preternatural element was woven into the very realistic world these characters inhabited. I particularly loved how other character’s responded to Thea’s gift over the course of the story, particularly through Lucy’s calm and wise guidance, Rem’s unwavering championing and support, and even with the accepting and believing friends and townsfolk Thea made a home amongst. The detectives of the story, in particular, served to play out some of my favourite and heartfelt scenes of the entire piece, if I think hard on my personal favourite moments.
The romance was a slow-burn, both in terms of timing (he didn’t appear on page until the 200-page mark) and feelings, which I actually hugely appreciated. For me, this was more a story of one woman’s life journey and the people and moments that informed the fiercely brave, strong, intelligent, and gentle human she became—so the love story was just a bonus for me, timed in a way that felt perfect for the larger story at hand, no less romantic or lacking in any way by his later arrival.
It’s probably clear at this point that my favourite thing about this story were the characters themselves. I’m partial to character-driven stories and full-cast ensemble pieces, and this one effortlessly had me falling in love with each complex and deftly drawn character (and animal), regardless of if they were main characters like Thea, Rem and Lucy, or bit players who served their moments well. Everyone was so real and tangible, practically jumping off the page with every passing year of their lives, that it made for a fuller, more memorable reading experience.
Once again, Nora Roberts has me sucked right in with her powerful storytelling, and I couldn’t be more pleased with how much I ultimately loved this story and these characters.
Heartbreak, healing, and full of so much hope, wonder and love, Mind Games is another shining example of how Nora Roberts is (and will always be) the Queen of the romance genre.
This story was absolutely breathtaking on every level. The plot, the characters, the relationship dynamics, the setting, the writing quality… it was all exquisite.
This one doesn’t shy away from heavier themes and feelings, with a three-part story that spans decades of personal growth and healing in the lives of a family devastated by deeply traumatic and life-altering loss.
The first part was a doozy, quickly and profoundly setting the idyllic scene in rural Kentucky, introducing then twelve-year-old psychically-gifted protagonist Thea Fox and her family, establishing their deep love for one another, right before killing-off her parents in a brutal murder, witnessed by Thea, hundreds of miles away, in her dreams.
I couldn’t believe how deeply affected I was by the happenings in the first 100 pages (or more). The fact Roberts' was able to so quickly endear me to all the characters, creating very layered dynamics and very real bonds of love between everyone involved, just goes to show she’s a master at character driven stories.
I spent about 80 of those first-part pages breaking down in tears, sobbing over the trauma and loss the surviving family endured. Moved even more by the phenomenal ways Thea, her brother (Rem) and her grandmother (Lucy) came together, supporting each other during this time and lifting each other up to face the worst of their grief together. It was really moving and probably not something I’ll soon forget.
Part-two was more mellow and full of hope and promise, showcasing how Thea and Rem grew into adulthood, raised by Lucy who taught them how to not only survive their past hurts, but to actively heal in the present and thrive in their future endeavours. This portion of the story put my heart at ease, knowing these characters would all be okay, unbroken by the trauma once inflicted on them.
The final part brought new faces to town and saw Thea falling in love, while actively facing off (in her connected mind) with the monster who killed her parents all those years ago. This part was intense at times, as expected, but the sweetness of Thea’s love interest and his darling son made the hard parts easier to bear, for Thea and for me as a reader.
Handled by any other author, Thea’s psychic abilities, and how they manifested throughout the story, could have been a bit silly and far-fetched, but I absolutely loved the way this preternatural element was woven into the very realistic world these characters inhabited. I particularly loved how other character’s responded to Thea’s gift over the course of the story, particularly through Lucy’s calm and wise guidance, Rem’s unwavering championing and support, and even with the accepting and believing friends and townsfolk Thea made a home amongst. The detectives of the story, in particular, served to play out some of my favourite and heartfelt scenes of the entire piece, if I think hard on my personal favourite moments.
The romance was a slow-burn, both in terms of timing (he didn’t appear on page until the 200-page mark) and feelings, which I actually hugely appreciated. For me, this was more a story of one woman’s life journey and the people and moments that informed the fiercely brave, strong, intelligent, and gentle human she became—so the love story was just a bonus for me, timed in a way that felt perfect for the larger story at hand, no less romantic or lacking in any way by his later arrival.
It’s probably clear at this point that my favourite thing about this story were the characters themselves. I’m partial to character-driven stories and full-cast ensemble pieces, and this one effortlessly had me falling in love with each complex and deftly drawn character (and animal), regardless of if they were main characters like Thea, Rem and Lucy, or bit players who served their moments well. Everyone was so real and tangible, practically jumping off the page with every passing year of their lives, that it made for a fuller, more memorable reading experience.
Once again, Nora Roberts has me sucked right in with her powerful storytelling, and I couldn’t be more pleased with how much I ultimately loved this story and these characters.
May 28, 2024
I hadn’t had the privilege of reading books by Nora Roberts for quite some time but recently two of her books came available to me and I really enjoyed both of them. Each of her books that I had the pleasure of reading only reminded me what a talented author Nora Roberts was. Mind Games was both riveting and compelling. I listened to the audiobook that was narrated by January LaVoy, one of my favorite narrators. January LaVoy was excellent at differentiating between the many characters in Mind Games. It was fast paced and well plotted. I was captivated from beginning to end.
John and Cora Fox lived the most ideal life with their two children, Thea, a twelve year old daughter and Rem, Thea’s younger brother in Fredericksburg, Virginia. The family lived in a very nice neighborhood and led a comfortable life. Thea’s parents worked together. John specialized in Real Estate and Cora was an Interior Designer. They had a healthy and happy marriage that had not lost its spark or magic even after all these years. Every year at the end of June Thea and Rem received a special treat, one that they both looked forward to all year long. John and Cora packed up their car and headed to Kentucky where Thea and Rem got to spend two whole weeks with their maternal grandmother, Lucy, while their parents enjoyed some alone time at home in Fredericksburg without any children. This was Thea’s and Rem’s favorite place to visit. Thea and Rem got to spend two whole weeks with their grandmother and they loved every minute of it. Grandma Lucy lived on a farm where she grew many of her own fruits and vegetables and raised several animals including chickens and goats. She also made homemade soaps and candles that she sold to the people in Redbud Hollow, Kentucky.
Shortly after Thea and Rem arrived at Grandma Lucy’s house, Thea was awoken from sleep one night by a horrific and vivid vision. Thea, like all the females in her family, had a unique and special gift. She was born with the ability to see things sometimes before they occurred and sometimes while they were happening. That night, Thea was able to see a man break into her parent’s house while her parents were sleeping in their bedroom. Not only could Thea see what this terrible man was doing but was able to read his mind. Thea knew he was planning to murder her parents. As the robber passed Thea’s portrait in the hallway, Thea realized that this man also possessed the same ability as she did. Thea witnessed the horrific murder of both of her parents. She was defenseless though to save them. Thea and Rem lost both of their parents that night. The only good thing was that Thea knew exactly what the man who murdered her parents looked like and because she was able to read his mind she knew exactly where he was planning to go after he left her childhood home. Thea helped the police catch the man who had murdered her parents by supplying them with all the details she had recovered by getting inside the man’s head. She helped put him in prison for the rest of his life with the details she was able to tell the police officers. Cora’s mother and Thea’s and Rem’s grandmother, Lucy Lannigan, had been named as the legal guardian for Thea and Rem by Cora and John Fox in their will in the event that anything ever happened to them. Grandma Lucy embraced both Thea and Rem and lovingly made a safe and nurturing home for both Thea and Rem with her. Both Thea and Rem healed over time but Thea never forgot. Even though the murderer was placed in prison, he was often able to torment Thea and get inside her head, as the years progressed. Thea did make good friends in Redbud Hollow, attended college, built a lucrative and successful career and even found love eventually. Through all those years though, the inmate’s voice and actions never left Thea’s mind. How could Thea rid herself from him once and for all?
I really enjoyed listening to Mind Games by Nora Roberts. It portrayed the true meaning of family, finding friendship, romance and purpose in life. It exemplified the way the same gift could produce different outcomes. Both Thea and the man who murdered her parents had the unique ability to see things but Thea used her gift to help others and for good causes and the man used his to perform evil acts which often involved using violence. Over time, Thea learned to trust others again. I really enjoyed the cast of characters in Mind Games. The ending was satisfying and tied all the loose pieces together nicely. I didn’t want this book to end. Perhaps there will be a sequel. I am keeping my fingers crossed. The touch of magic infused within the story was just enough for satisfaction. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for allowing me to listen to Mind Games by Nora Roberts through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
John and Cora Fox lived the most ideal life with their two children, Thea, a twelve year old daughter and Rem, Thea’s younger brother in Fredericksburg, Virginia. The family lived in a very nice neighborhood and led a comfortable life. Thea’s parents worked together. John specialized in Real Estate and Cora was an Interior Designer. They had a healthy and happy marriage that had not lost its spark or magic even after all these years. Every year at the end of June Thea and Rem received a special treat, one that they both looked forward to all year long. John and Cora packed up their car and headed to Kentucky where Thea and Rem got to spend two whole weeks with their maternal grandmother, Lucy, while their parents enjoyed some alone time at home in Fredericksburg without any children. This was Thea’s and Rem’s favorite place to visit. Thea and Rem got to spend two whole weeks with their grandmother and they loved every minute of it. Grandma Lucy lived on a farm where she grew many of her own fruits and vegetables and raised several animals including chickens and goats. She also made homemade soaps and candles that she sold to the people in Redbud Hollow, Kentucky.
Shortly after Thea and Rem arrived at Grandma Lucy’s house, Thea was awoken from sleep one night by a horrific and vivid vision. Thea, like all the females in her family, had a unique and special gift. She was born with the ability to see things sometimes before they occurred and sometimes while they were happening. That night, Thea was able to see a man break into her parent’s house while her parents were sleeping in their bedroom. Not only could Thea see what this terrible man was doing but was able to read his mind. Thea knew he was planning to murder her parents. As the robber passed Thea’s portrait in the hallway, Thea realized that this man also possessed the same ability as she did. Thea witnessed the horrific murder of both of her parents. She was defenseless though to save them. Thea and Rem lost both of their parents that night. The only good thing was that Thea knew exactly what the man who murdered her parents looked like and because she was able to read his mind she knew exactly where he was planning to go after he left her childhood home. Thea helped the police catch the man who had murdered her parents by supplying them with all the details she had recovered by getting inside the man’s head. She helped put him in prison for the rest of his life with the details she was able to tell the police officers. Cora’s mother and Thea’s and Rem’s grandmother, Lucy Lannigan, had been named as the legal guardian for Thea and Rem by Cora and John Fox in their will in the event that anything ever happened to them. Grandma Lucy embraced both Thea and Rem and lovingly made a safe and nurturing home for both Thea and Rem with her. Both Thea and Rem healed over time but Thea never forgot. Even though the murderer was placed in prison, he was often able to torment Thea and get inside her head, as the years progressed. Thea did make good friends in Redbud Hollow, attended college, built a lucrative and successful career and even found love eventually. Through all those years though, the inmate’s voice and actions never left Thea’s mind. How could Thea rid herself from him once and for all?
I really enjoyed listening to Mind Games by Nora Roberts. It portrayed the true meaning of family, finding friendship, romance and purpose in life. It exemplified the way the same gift could produce different outcomes. Both Thea and the man who murdered her parents had the unique ability to see things but Thea used her gift to help others and for good causes and the man used his to perform evil acts which often involved using violence. Over time, Thea learned to trust others again. I really enjoyed the cast of characters in Mind Games. The ending was satisfying and tied all the loose pieces together nicely. I didn’t want this book to end. Perhaps there will be a sequel. I am keeping my fingers crossed. The touch of magic infused within the story was just enough for satisfaction. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for allowing me to listen to Mind Games by Nora Roberts through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 28, 2024
Good ol' NR never disappoints! But lets be honest; it all the same with her heroes and heroines, the difference with her books are just the context. I tell you the last 4 books I've read from her have pretty much been the same characters.
Siblings spending summers with grandma, end up tragically losing both parents. Thea has a gift that unfortunately lets her see how this happens; but the culprit also has this gift! Then begins the battle of wits, where she has to decide how this ends or the killer is going to hunt her for life..
Solid 4 stars!!!!!
Siblings spending summers with grandma, end up tragically losing both parents. Thea has a gift that unfortunately lets her see how this happens; but the culprit also has this gift! Then begins the battle of wits, where she has to decide how this ends or the killer is going to hunt her for life..
Solid 4 stars!!!!!
June 8, 2024
3.5 stars - I appreciate the experimentation with a non-traditional type of suspense. Not sure I totally bought it, but it was an interesting experiment! Classic Nora found family vibes, and just all around comfy which was what I wanted
May 27, 2024
"He'd fight to kill while she fought to live. She firmly believed that gave her the advantage."
It's so difficult to put into words how this book made me feel. Especially because I don't think I actually know the full impact of it yet. It's hard, and it's special, and it took me on a journey like no other author can. Nora Roberts puts such heart into her stories and I love getting lost in them.
This one is particular hit me extremely hard. It took a long time to get through it simply because I kept crying. I couldn't stop. Whether it be the loss of her parents or the mind blowing love of her grammie, Thea's story was one hit after another. I can't even imagine going through what she did and still waking up the next day, and maybe that's why it felt so surreal to be a part of it.
But even outside of that, outside of who we watch her become, I loved the world building of video games and what goes into it. I love that Thea was a little weird learning how to wield a sword, a little quirky with her schedule and her seemingly packed away life, and a little lonely to never look passed her grandma, her brother, and her childhood best friend. As someone who feels a little lonely for all the same reasons, it was like an understanding and a reflection all in one. Maybe she opened me up to a new possibility, maybe she made a dream come true for me.
Because she also gets to fall in love with her childhood crush, who.... let's just say that you should imagine Harry Styles falling in love with you one summer. In this universe Harry Styles has an adorable kid who lights up his life, and Thea could use a little light in all her dark.
Because the darkness is always looming when you watch your parents get murdered. And wow did this one hit home because of it. I'm always so thankful to read a Nora Roberts book, but I'm especially thankful to net galley for letting me do it early.
It's so difficult to put into words how this book made me feel. Especially because I don't think I actually know the full impact of it yet. It's hard, and it's special, and it took me on a journey like no other author can. Nora Roberts puts such heart into her stories and I love getting lost in them.
This one is particular hit me extremely hard. It took a long time to get through it simply because I kept crying. I couldn't stop. Whether it be the loss of her parents or the mind blowing love of her grammie, Thea's story was one hit after another. I can't even imagine going through what she did and still waking up the next day, and maybe that's why it felt so surreal to be a part of it.
But even outside of that, outside of who we watch her become, I loved the world building of video games and what goes into it. I love that Thea was a little weird learning how to wield a sword, a little quirky with her schedule and her seemingly packed away life, and a little lonely to never look passed her grandma, her brother, and her childhood best friend. As someone who feels a little lonely for all the same reasons, it was like an understanding and a reflection all in one. Maybe she opened me up to a new possibility, maybe she made a dream come true for me.
Because she also gets to fall in love with her childhood crush, who.... let's just say that you should imagine Harry Styles falling in love with you one summer. In this universe Harry Styles has an adorable kid who lights up his life, and Thea could use a little light in all her dark.
Because the darkness is always looming when you watch your parents get murdered. And wow did this one hit home because of it. I'm always so thankful to read a Nora Roberts book, but I'm especially thankful to net galley for letting me do it early.
May 10, 2024
MIND GAMES is an intriguing smorgasbord of suspense and romance with a side of supernatural served up via Author Nora Roberts's signature style. A multi-layered, character driven story with a strong yet vulnerable protagonist, MIND GAMES pits good vs. evil in an epic battle of the minds between two individuals with the gift of sight.
Twelve-year-old Thea Fox and her younger brother Rem are excited to be spending two weeks of their summer vacation with their maternal grandma Lucy on her idyllic farm in Appalachia, Kentucky. Unfortunately, their happiness is shattered when tragedy strikes during a home invasion in which their parents are brutally murdered back in Virginia . . . An attack both Thea and Lucy witness in horrifying graphic color in their nightmares. Thea inherited her psychic gift of sight from her grandmother as it's been passed down through generations of women in the family. Thea's powers of sight surpass those of her grandmother's, and it's her detailed description of the killer and his subsequent actions that aids authorities in locating, capturing and locking him away for life. Over time, Thea realizes the killer can also "see" her, and a mental battle of the minds begins between them.
Like several of Roberts's books, MIND GAMES unfolds in parts beginning with Thea Fox's early formative years starting at age twelve and continuing over a span of fifteen years into adulthood. Over the course of the story, readers get a sense of the love, respect, kindness, and tradition in which Thea and Rem thrive, growing into productive, caring adults with a keen sense of family. Over the years, Thea continues perfecting her gift of sight while utilizing her abilities to keep an eye on her parents' killer locked away in prison. She's careful, or so she thinks, to never let him "see" her watching him, but as she soon learns his powers are growing also, and he taunts and threatens her while stalking her nightmares. There's no doubt a confrontation is coming. Will she survive the challenge?
MIND GAMES is an emotional story that evolves slowly over time. Roberts gift for crafting heartfelt, emotional family sagas is highlighted as is her talent for rendering characters with deep family roots and tradition. Some readers may find the development of this story a bit slow as the author takes time to introduce the characters and set the stage for the coming battle while building tension. While the pace is slow, there's an escalating undertone of malice lurking that builds to the final showdown and epic battle of the minds. For those looking for romance, a love interest appears in the second half of the book with a relationship developing slowly, but for the most part MIND GAMES is a family drama about a girl who grows up learning to accept and embrace a unique gift while yielding it in ways to help not harm her fellow man. It's a showdown of good vs. evil reminiscent of the epic battle at the O.K. Corral, but with weapons of the mind not guns. It's another Nora Roberts classic in the making. Highly recommended to fans of Roberts and romance suspense as well as those who enjoy stories featuring protagonists with psychic gifts.
Many thanks to St. Martins Press for an arc of this title. All opinions expressed are my own. This review first published in Mystery & Suspense Magazine and is also available at Cross My Heart Reviews.
Twelve-year-old Thea Fox and her younger brother Rem are excited to be spending two weeks of their summer vacation with their maternal grandma Lucy on her idyllic farm in Appalachia, Kentucky. Unfortunately, their happiness is shattered when tragedy strikes during a home invasion in which their parents are brutally murdered back in Virginia . . . An attack both Thea and Lucy witness in horrifying graphic color in their nightmares. Thea inherited her psychic gift of sight from her grandmother as it's been passed down through generations of women in the family. Thea's powers of sight surpass those of her grandmother's, and it's her detailed description of the killer and his subsequent actions that aids authorities in locating, capturing and locking him away for life. Over time, Thea realizes the killer can also "see" her, and a mental battle of the minds begins between them.
Like several of Roberts's books, MIND GAMES unfolds in parts beginning with Thea Fox's early formative years starting at age twelve and continuing over a span of fifteen years into adulthood. Over the course of the story, readers get a sense of the love, respect, kindness, and tradition in which Thea and Rem thrive, growing into productive, caring adults with a keen sense of family. Over the years, Thea continues perfecting her gift of sight while utilizing her abilities to keep an eye on her parents' killer locked away in prison. She's careful, or so she thinks, to never let him "see" her watching him, but as she soon learns his powers are growing also, and he taunts and threatens her while stalking her nightmares. There's no doubt a confrontation is coming. Will she survive the challenge?
MIND GAMES is an emotional story that evolves slowly over time. Roberts gift for crafting heartfelt, emotional family sagas is highlighted as is her talent for rendering characters with deep family roots and tradition. Some readers may find the development of this story a bit slow as the author takes time to introduce the characters and set the stage for the coming battle while building tension. While the pace is slow, there's an escalating undertone of malice lurking that builds to the final showdown and epic battle of the minds. For those looking for romance, a love interest appears in the second half of the book with a relationship developing slowly, but for the most part MIND GAMES is a family drama about a girl who grows up learning to accept and embrace a unique gift while yielding it in ways to help not harm her fellow man. It's a showdown of good vs. evil reminiscent of the epic battle at the O.K. Corral, but with weapons of the mind not guns. It's another Nora Roberts classic in the making. Highly recommended to fans of Roberts and romance suspense as well as those who enjoy stories featuring protagonists with psychic gifts.
Many thanks to St. Martins Press for an arc of this title. All opinions expressed are my own. This review first published in Mystery & Suspense Magazine and is also available at Cross My Heart Reviews.
July 28, 2024
iiNora Roberts intense latest, Mind Games, centers on Thea Fox. Thea was twelve years old when she dreamt of her parent's murder while staying at her Grandma Lucy's Kentucky ranch. Lucy had the same nightmare as well then explains that it was due to their mutual psychic abilities. Thea helps the police capturer her parent's murderer, Ray Riggs. Thea grows up to be a successful video game designer, but her connection to Ray is stronger then ever. Thea's psychic talents is both a blessing and a curse in her adult life. Her gifts help her local police and a troubled neighbor, but could also cost her chances at love and further success. You're getting the full-on "Nora" here with her usual strong-willed and independent heroine, a hero who's her equal, with a mysterious past, and a cast of loving and supportive family and friends. There's also her trademark themes of core values, good vs evil, and telepathy. The major difference between Roberts' latest and the other books that I've read by her is that Thea's story takes up almost the first half of the story that results in one of Roberts' most compelling heroines. I also want to reiterate on the high intensity of the story especially in the scenes between Thea and Ray which left my palms soaking wet. Mind Games is another benchmark in her established career. It's also a example that when it comes to romantic suspense that nobody does it better then Nora Roberts.
July 14, 2024
It is difficult for me to believe that Nora Roberts wrote this.
May 21, 2024
Typically I love Nora Roberts books and I was excited to read this one. While I do think this is a great book that will appeal to many readers I struggled through this one. I do think it has a unique concept and I see the appeal to the story but for some reason I just didn't really connect with it and I don't quite know why. The characters are wonderful and I especially loved Lucy. I also loved that Thea's adult profession is a video game designer! How cool. This book delivers on suspense and has a completely unhinged and terrifying villain. I will say the love interest somewhat surprised me but in a good way as I had suspected it may be someone else but I'm happy with how it turned out.
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and Nora Roberts for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date: 5/21/24
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and Nora Roberts for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date: 5/21/24
March 4, 2024
This first half of this book tore at my heartstrings, in all the ways something can. Good, bad, beautiful, horrific, you name it. It was so wonderfully done, so emotional and raw. The second and third half were just as beautifully done and I absolutely loved every minute of this suspenseful story interwoven with the supernatural like only Roberts seems to be able to do. This has to be one of my new favs from her and I'm so glad I was able to read and savor it.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
June 10, 2024
Mystery, Thriller & Suspense
Narrated by: January LaVoy
Length: 14 hrs and 52 mins
Release date: 05-23-24
As January Lavoy is one of my favorite narrators, then I had to get this new standalone book even though lately Nora Roberts stories have started to sound too similar, too predictible, too slow and kinda boring.
In this story people die, the killer is tormenting Thea with some weird mind games and in between there is alot of going for runs, milking cows, feeding chickens, programming games, meeting handsome neighbour and his little son. Overall it was a very slow-paced writing style. There was a lot of telling rather than showing. The amount of mundane dialogue slowed the pace down, and felt like it was just trying to meet a word count. With better editing and tighter plot, there could have been potential but now...
Narrated by: January LaVoy
Length: 14 hrs and 52 mins
Release date: 05-23-24
As January Lavoy is one of my favorite narrators, then I had to get this new standalone book even though lately Nora Roberts stories have started to sound too similar, too predictible, too slow and kinda boring.
In this story people die, the killer is tormenting Thea with some weird mind games and in between there is alot of going for runs, milking cows, feeding chickens, programming games, meeting handsome neighbour and his little son. Overall it was a very slow-paced writing style. There was a lot of telling rather than showing. The amount of mundane dialogue slowed the pace down, and felt like it was just trying to meet a word count. With better editing and tighter plot, there could have been potential but now...
March 3, 2024
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
MIND GAMES by Nora Roberts is an amazingly rich and layered multi-genre story. It follows the young protagonist, Thea Fox, between the ages of twelve to twenty-seven from a traumatic family event to her ultimate battle and HEA. This book is a mix of family drama, romance, romantic suspense, murder mystery, generational paranormal psychic abilities all rolled together into an engaging story set in a small town in the Kentucky Appalachian Mountains.
School is out in Virginia and twelve-year-old Thea and ten-year-old Rem are on their way to spend two weeks with their Grandma Lucy in the Kentucky foothills. They always look forward to helping with the animals and gardens, helping with their grandma’s home-based company, and running free in the mountains. But this year, something terrible happened to their parents and they will be staying with their grandma in Redbud Hollow.
Thea has the gift of sight that has passed down through generations of women in her family and she is able to use it to help police capture her parent’s killer. But the killer has the same gift, and he uses it to stay tied to Thea. A mental battle wages between them over the next fifteen years until they are face to face and Thea is ready for a final game.
If you loved the sweeping story in Identity, you will love this story just as much. The parents’ murder is heartbreaking, but the family love between Lucy, Thea, and Rem warms and heals the break, at least partially. Then you get to read how Thea strengthens not only physically, but mentally and learns to deal with her gift as well as how to handle the intrusions and attacks from the killer. I fell in love with all the well-developed characters in this story, especially the son of Thea’s love interest. I loved the ending, not only because it ends on a HEA, but because of Thea’s solution and use of her gift to obtain it even if it could end her own.
I highly recommend this new multi-genre story from the author that never disappoints!
MIND GAMES by Nora Roberts is an amazingly rich and layered multi-genre story. It follows the young protagonist, Thea Fox, between the ages of twelve to twenty-seven from a traumatic family event to her ultimate battle and HEA. This book is a mix of family drama, romance, romantic suspense, murder mystery, generational paranormal psychic abilities all rolled together into an engaging story set in a small town in the Kentucky Appalachian Mountains.
School is out in Virginia and twelve-year-old Thea and ten-year-old Rem are on their way to spend two weeks with their Grandma Lucy in the Kentucky foothills. They always look forward to helping with the animals and gardens, helping with their grandma’s home-based company, and running free in the mountains. But this year, something terrible happened to their parents and they will be staying with their grandma in Redbud Hollow.
Thea has the gift of sight that has passed down through generations of women in her family and she is able to use it to help police capture her parent’s killer. But the killer has the same gift, and he uses it to stay tied to Thea. A mental battle wages between them over the next fifteen years until they are face to face and Thea is ready for a final game.
If you loved the sweeping story in Identity, you will love this story just as much. The parents’ murder is heartbreaking, but the family love between Lucy, Thea, and Rem warms and heals the break, at least partially. Then you get to read how Thea strengthens not only physically, but mentally and learns to deal with her gift as well as how to handle the intrusions and attacks from the killer. I fell in love with all the well-developed characters in this story, especially the son of Thea’s love interest. I loved the ending, not only because it ends on a HEA, but because of Thea’s solution and use of her gift to obtain it even if it could end her own.
I highly recommend this new multi-genre story from the author that never disappoints!
May 30, 2024
Oh, this was very good.
It was very, very emotional though and I was tearing up A LOT. Part one was a killer for sure.
It had some hokey moments and some of it was just too perfect but as a whole I couldn’t put it down and really was hooked. Honestly, it is exactly what I want from a Nora Roberts book so what is there to even complain about?
I loved the setting, the love and all the support. It was very beautiful. I really, really enjoyed this quite a bit and it always makes me want to devour more of her stories. I for sure need to go back and read some I've missed along the way.
Nora just has magic, there is no doubt.
It was very, very emotional though and I was tearing up A LOT. Part one was a killer for sure.
It had some hokey moments and some of it was just too perfect but as a whole I couldn’t put it down and really was hooked. Honestly, it is exactly what I want from a Nora Roberts book so what is there to even complain about?
I loved the setting, the love and all the support. It was very beautiful. I really, really enjoyed this quite a bit and it always makes me want to devour more of her stories. I for sure need to go back and read some I've missed along the way.
Nora just has magic, there is no doubt.
May 21, 2024
Twelve-year-old Thea’s parents are murdered. It’s a senseless and cruel act by a no-good, evil man, but his plans to get away are thwarted by Thea’s unusual gift. It’s heartbreaking, but thankfully she has her loving grandmother and brother. They band together and try and live a good life while remembering their loss. I adored both her brother and her grandmother, Lucy, who was a big-hearted, salt-of-the-earth kind of woman!
Unfortunately, Thea captured the killer’s attention, as they share the same psychic gift and he’s bent on vengeance. He is a dark presence on and off throughout the story, but Thea’s gift is stronger, and she has her family and loved ones for support. I enjoyed how she fought back!
Mind Games wasn’t a fast-paced story, but it captured and held my attention from page one! I loved the world Ms. Roberts created: family, friends, animals, gardening, cooking in the small, tightknit community of Redbud Hollow. The slow-burn romance was just icing on the cake!
I alternately read and listened to an audio copy of Mind Games and recommend either version. January LaVoy is one of my favorite narrators! She has a rich, pleasing voice, and nailed the wide range of ages, male and female voices here!
A copy was kindly provided by St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, Thea captured the killer’s attention, as they share the same psychic gift and he’s bent on vengeance. He is a dark presence on and off throughout the story, but Thea’s gift is stronger, and she has her family and loved ones for support. I enjoyed how she fought back!
Mind Games wasn’t a fast-paced story, but it captured and held my attention from page one! I loved the world Ms. Roberts created: family, friends, animals, gardening, cooking in the small, tightknit community of Redbud Hollow. The slow-burn romance was just icing on the cake!
I alternately read and listened to an audio copy of Mind Games and recommend either version. January LaVoy is one of my favorite narrators! She has a rich, pleasing voice, and nailed the wide range of ages, male and female voices here!
A copy was kindly provided by St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2024
3.5 Very compelling read. LOVE the family and found family. I was brought to tears a few times. The "mind games" part of it was pretty out there for me, but the storytelling was great. Of course I could have done without all the language.
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