In the little town of Walton, Georgia, everybody knows your name–but no one knows your secret. At least that’s what Lane Kent is counting on when she returns to her hometown with her five-year-old son. Dangerously depressed after the death of her husband, Lane is looking for hope. What she finds instead is a dead body.Lane must work with Walton’s newest deputy, Charlie Lynch, to uncover the … uncover the truth behind the murder. But when that truth hits too close to home, she’ll have to decide if saving the life of another is worth the cost of revealing her darkest secret.
Debut novelist Natalie Walters pulls you to the edge of your seat on the first page and keeps you there until the last in this riveting story that will have you believing no one is defined by their past.
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As I read this book I had to ask God “how in the world did Natalie get in my head?” The main character Lane Kent could be me. This book is a must read! Natalie is not afraid to tackle the hard subject of depression and anxiety that so many face today. Her characters were real and the story was one that I will read again and again. I can not wait for books 2&3.
Living Lies certainly starts out with a bang! Opening right up with a murder mystery, I knew that this book would keep me right on my toes! The writing style kept me reading just as much as the plot, though—Ms. Walters knows how to spin a tale!
So, the characters.
Lane . . . oh my word. Right away, I wanted to jump into the book and pull her into my arms and hide her from every ugly thing life has to throw at her. She is definitely a character that will pull on your heartstrings!
Noah—hold on to your hearts, ladies, before this five-year-old steals every one of them! He was so adorable, and to see him interacting with Lane and Charlie will either steal your heart or melt it. So definitely lock your heart up in a super tough shell if you don’t want one (or both) of those things to happen.
Charlie. The slightly cliche, I’m-a-gentleman-that-won’t-do-anything-to-hurt-you knight in shining armor. He was easy to like, but like I said, kinda cliche. The way he understood how Lane felt, though, and the way he wanted to help her added to the story so well.
Or, at least, it added to the story until they really fell in love. I don’t want to hear about the rush of electricity or heat that you get when you touch each other, ‘kay? I don’t want your kisses described in detail.
Honestly, I reallllllyyyyy disliked the romance. It’s not that Lane and Charlie didn’t belong to each other—far from it! I just didn’t like the way their attraction was described so much.
The themes in the book, though—suicide awareness. Self-love and respect. Your true worth. So, so much yes. Ten thousand-star plot but, in my opinion, 1- or 2-star romance. Thus, I’ll just stick with 4 stars.
The mystery definitely kept me guessing, but that could be because I was pretty confused through a good bit of the book! I’m not sure whether or not this was the author’s intent or not, but I’ll lean towards not. Of course we’re supposed to be confused as to who the actual culprit is, but not how all the pieces are tying together. Much of the time while the detectives were discussing things, or when certain scenes played out, I was left going, “Wait, what?” All in all, though, the mystery was fabulous.
So, yes. If you can handle heavy attraction, murder mysteries, and suicide, this book is for you!
I was given a free e-copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts are my own.
Living Lies, book one in the Harbored Secrets series by debut author, Natalie Walters, instantly grabs your attention and, like a good suspense book, doesn’t let go. I became so attached to these characters that even after the story was over I still wanted to keep reading.
In her debut novel, Walters tackles subjects that I haven’t seen many fiction authors take on: depression and suicide. And she does so with great diplomacy and eye-opening realisticity. Lane Kent is just struggling for a ray of hope after her husband’s traumatic death, but instead, she finds herself tangled up in a web of deadly deceit. The “new guy in town,” former Marine-turned-sheriff’s-deputy Charlie Lynch is tasked with discovering the truth behind the murder that has rocked the small town of Walton, Georgia. Both of these characters are struggling with their own demons, and are so real you can’t help but relate to them. The addition of 5-year-old Noah, Lane’s son, was very sweet, and I loved seeing his interactions with Charlie, as he and Lane find themselves drawn to each other.
There isn’t boatloads of action throughout most of this story, but the twisty plot definitely keeps your attention. I had a few guesses as to how the story would play out, but for the most part, I was surprised. I greatly enjoyed Walters’ writing style; it’s not overly wordy, but it smoothly draws you into the story, and you can’t stop reading.
All in all, I think Natalie Walters is an author to watch. I look forward to reading book two of the Harbored Secrets series in November! I highly recommend this novel to fans of suspense with a touch of romance.
4.5 stars. I loved it!!
Living Lies by debut novelist Natalie Walters was completely captivating and totally amazing. While the suspense in it was absolutely wonderful and I was kept guessing ’till the end, I think my “favoritest” part was how emotionally charged the story was.
Ms. Walters brought up so many amazing points about depression, anxiety, and suicide, and, being someone who has dealt with those things before, I really appreciated how she she addressed those issues.
Another one of my absolute favorite parts were the characters. Oh my goodness, Charlie was THE BEST, so sweet and kind and just literally the best. I also really loved Lane because I could relate to her and the struggles she faced. I think I got to the point of almost crying because I felt her struggles, every single one of them, because I’ve been there and don’t ever want to be in the place again. Last, but completely not least, I loved Ms. Byrdie. Oh how I loved that lady and her love for the Lord, her sweetness and sometimes bluntness, her tough love. She honestly reminded me of some of the women in my life, women I am ever so grateful for.
So, in the end, why should you read Living Lies by the beautiful and sweet (she really is the sweetest, y’all) Natalie Walters? Because its a suspense story filled with so much heart and love and raw honesty and I honestly don’t think you’ll be able to walk away unchanged.
**I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions and thoughts in this review are my own.**
There is something very special about opening a debut novel and I’m so happy to have read this novel especially.
Sometimes when I pick up a suspense novel, I find that they’re mostly plot drive. And I’m NOT complaining! But my personal taste draws towards character development.
Natalie Walters surely knew how to balance out suspense, romance, and character growth. And I truly believe this book can be a tool to start conversations and give an understanding about mental illness to those mostly on the outside or who might be struggling somehow but haven’t perceived it yet.
I really can’t explain my appreciation for this book other than saying it’s highly recommended!
* I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
First of all this cover is phenomenal! I am more persuaded by a good cover on a book than any book blurb on the back! This cover is amazing! It catches your eye, but after reading this book, it also portrays a scene in the book! I love that!
The first pages of this book have the shock factor that I really look for in a romantic suspense novel! Don’t worry, this review will be spoiler free! The reader is instantly drawn into what is happening and things are set in motion that will propel the story throughout the remainder of the book! How is that for being vague and non-spoilerish?
Several of the characters in this book are dealing with serious issues that come to light within the course of this murder investigation. The struggles these characters face shapes their mindset about the circumstances going on in their small town and leads to conflicts, misunderstanding and even fear.
Lane in particular was more difficult for me to connect with as a character. She is reserved, defeated, and really someone who retreated into herself and had to be drawn out. I think her character was written very true to her circumstance. Her particular struggles didn’t lend themselves to a bubbly personality, or someone who is easy to get to know and love. Charlie slowly unraveled her defenses and was willing to really patiently allow her to feel secure enough to share her true self with him, struggles and all.
The conclusion of this book is packed with answers that provide a clear picture of motivations and reveal the killer! And, of course there is the threat of danger as everything comes to light! No spoilers! However, there may be a very intense scene, and there may be shots fired! That’s all I am going to say, go read it and see for yourself!
Awesome suspense debut!
Natalie Walters absolutely nailed it with her debut in the Harbored Secrets series! The main characters of Lane and Charlie were so very real. The line up of secondary characters was also very amazing. This book deals with the very tough subject of mental illness, but the author did a fabulous job of portraying it through the main character Lane.
I look forward to reading more books from this series set in a small southern town. I highly recommend this book!
*I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.
A solid debut.
In Natalie Waters debut novel, “Living Lies” we are given a candid look at how clinical depression and PTSD help shape people’s lives as well as negative perceptions that arise, sometimes cruelly, from people who are unfamiliar with these disorders.
Lane has desperately tried to be normal. Striving to fit into everyone else’s mold she continually finds herself falling short. Between parents who don’t understand her and blaming herself for the death of her husband how can she move on and function for her young son? Maybe he’s better off without her.
Charlie has struggled with wanting his father’s approval. A career military man, his dad can’t understand his choice to leave the marines. Having seen death and destruction amidst the horrors of war, he’s ready to slow down and gain perspective. He takes a job with his uncle, the sheriff of a small town. Nothing happens there, so it’s the perfect place to hide out for a while.
As crime stalks the small town of Walton, Lane and Charlie are drawn together and must come to terms with their personal demons and their growing attraction to each other.
Miguel has lived his life with PTSD. He’s used his artistic talents to help control the voices in his living nightmare. When he’s unjustly arrested for a brutal murder, can he keep his thoughts together enough to remember the one thing that could free him? Will it make any difference to the opinions others have already formed about him?
Full of suspense, twists and turns played off authentic characters this is a wonderful beginning for a great new author.
I received a copy of this book through #netgalley for review purposes. This was my first time reading anything written by Natalie Walters, and I definitely look forward to reading more of her books. This is an overall well-written Christian suspense book. As the author has dealt with depression in her family, she writes with knowledge on the topic as her main character struggles with this mental illness. My only slight disappointment was the fact that her character repeatedly says that she is never going to get better. While there is some truth to that, I do feel that with proper counseling, support and through God’s help that depression will have less control. The author might believe that, but I am not sure that she totally comes out and says that. #livinglies
Debut author Natalie Walters is off to a great start with “Living Lies”, the first book in her “Harbored Secrets Series”. An intriguing romantic suspense story line touched with poignant human drama will keep readers turning the page. Widowed at twenty-eight, Lane Walton journeys back to her hometown in hopes of a new start for herself and her young son, Noah. The small Southern town of Walton, Georgia would seem like the place to begin again. However, trying to shake off the troubles of her past gets even more complicated when Lane becomes involved in the mysterious discovery of a dead body. As Lane and Charlie Lynch, a new deputy in the area, join forces to solve the case, an attraction grows between them. Thoughts of possible future happiness turn to doubt when Lane realizes that unmasking the killer may reveal more than she wants anyone to know. Is bringing a murderer to justice worth the personal cost she may have to pay? I enjoyed “Living Lies”, and I look forward to reading the next book in the series, “Deadly Deceit”.
Book Copy Gratis Revell Books via Library Thin
I truly enjoyed reading Living Lies, as it had all the elements I crave in a book–characters I can relate to, a storyline that keeps me turning pages like my life depends on it, and that satisfied-but-“I want more!” feeling as soon as I’m done.
I thought the mystery plot was well developed, woven throughout the story in such away that I was constantly guessing what would come next while enjoying every bit of the journey to the end. And the romance thread was incredibly sweet–I loved seeing the relationship between Lane and Charlie grow.
Perhaps the one thing I appreciated most about the book was the mental health aspect. It is such a hot topic these days that when I start to read a book that’s headed in that direction, I tend to brace myself because there’s no telling what’s ahead. Mental health is either painted positively or negatively, and even though this book was published under a Christian house, I was still nervous. It’s a topic that hits very close to home! However, I thought the author did an excellent job of broaching the subjects of suicide and PTSD in a poignant yet sensitive way in that didn’t she gloss over them, sweep them under the rug, or exploit them. I felt every bit of the struggle as well as the hope and redemption to come and that was refreshing. We need more positive reflections in fiction, just like this!
I’m looking forward to subsequent books in this series, for sure.
“If there’s one thing I know about God – he’s a God of second chances. And sometimes second chances come tall and in a uniform.” (92)
O dear. Readers will need to prepare themselves to add Natalie Walters on their radars as a must read author after her debut, Living Lies. I picked up this title without the intent on finishing it in one sitting, especially with what’s going on in my life right now, but boy, was I mistaken. The first chapter had be smiling for it’s intensity and level of suspense. I had to read more and before I knew it, Living Lies closed on my lap and gave this reader a satisfied thought.
“One of these days I hope you can see how much you affect those around you – and not in the way you believe . . . but . . . the way God does.” (34)
Living Lies is romantic suspense that tugs at our personal and emotional heartstrings. It touches on an inspirational element, but more importantly of who we are as individuals. Depression can be silent and deadly, and the author gave readers a glimpse into the lives of those affected. Add in the suspense part of the story, when there’s more at stake than one life lost, readers will walk away pining for more. A story that entertains with characters that captivate, and a message that lingers, Living Lies will be on readers’ minds long after the last page closes.
“God never makes mistakes. You are here on purpose . . . with purpose.” (296 )
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.
Authentic characters and an important message of mental health awareness and compassion are just the tip of the iceberg in this solid debut novel! Walters nails the small town dynamics and family drama in this instantly engaging law enforcement romantic suspense.
Charlie Lynch is a small town girl’s dream come true. He’s every kind of hero all wrapped up in one, brave enough to serve our country and follow what he believes is God’s will for his life. chivalrous and patient, loyal, devoted, and great with kids and pets. I think we can all agree that Charlie is a hands-down, no doubt about it, keeper.
Lane Kent needs a Charlie in her life, a friend, a protector, a man willing to listen and encourage. Her inner turmoil and rocky family relationships make meaningful friendships worth more than gold. Fiction needs more heroines like Lane, the gift of her perspective and experiences encourages us to mature in empathy.
Winsome secondary characters like Ms. Byrdie, five-year-old Noah, and even Bane the Terror Terrier round out the story with warmth, humor, and sentimental moments. I highly recommend this purposeful, inspiring, and action-packed story! Fans of Dani Pettrey and Lynette Eason will especially enjoy the style and pacing of Living Lies.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
This was the first book I have ever read by this author and it will not be my last. I loved all the suspense in the story. There were many twists and turns. I am looking forward to many more stories by this author. The characters have many secrets and it is fun learning each one. I received a copy of this book from Revell for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
As part of the Revell Books blog tour, I would like to introduce to you:
Living Lies
By: Natalie Walters
This one is a #mustread for your summer #tbr! Grab a copy today, and check out my review.
*REVIEW*
Living Lies was so unexpectedly fantastic. I’d never heard of the author prior to this book, but I will be reading Natalie Walters from now on.
This psychological thriller has just enough of everything to make it a great blend. It’s thrilling, romantic, funny, dark, inspiring and nail biting. I loved the little town of Walton and it’s citizens because it added an overall positive vibe to the story. Even though a dark tragedy has occurred, the townspeople refuse to let it change who they are and what they stand for. Charley is just an all around good guy, and it’s easy to like him. He has been through some bad things. He’s the type of man who is becoming a rare breed, unfortunately. Lane is troubled and damaged but so relatable and real. I’ve known serious depression most of my adult life, and her characterization is spot on to the way I feel sometimes. I’m so glad to read a story that approaches such a serious topic with accuracy, sensitivity and hope for those struggling. This disorder is very real, and exposure helps to quantify it’s legitimacy. Don’t dismiss something just because you can’t understand it. I felt so sad about parts of the story, yet uplifted by others. I never guessed how things would work out, and I was on the edge of my seat waiting for answers. I’m also glad that the romantic potential between Lane and Charley was evident but didn’t overpower the story. So riveting and all encompassing for several hours of my life! If you haven’t read Living Lies yet, you should. Definitely one of my favorite books this year!
The book is sure to please mystery buffs with secrets, lies and a murder. The author does a great job in keeping the story moving at a fast pace. I loved learning about paintings and all that is involved in an art gallery.
Lane is a good character who comes from a very influential family. It was hard for Lane to pretend everything was grand when she suffers from depression. I appreciate how the author writes about anxiety and depression with honesty and compassion. So many people suffer from depression and it is hard to find the right treatment. I loved Lane’swill power to deal with it in a positive manor. Her family seems to want to hide it from the world, which puts Lane in a difficult position at times.
The story is dark at times with realistic views of PTSD and depression which I think enhanced the story line. The last thing Lane needs in her life is to stumble upon the body of a young girl in the woods. This is where we meet the charismatic Deputy Charlie Lynch. He is fierce with a background in the military. He takes to Lane right away and has compassion for her and her adorable son. His intelligence is obvious when he realizes Lane is hiding something. Will she trust him with her secret?
I loved the setting of a small town and how neighbors look out for each other. The mystery of a painting really increases the speculation of who is involved with the murder and how it ties into a possible drug problem. Who is Miguel and why does he feel that Lane needs protecting? I found Miguel to be a lost soul tossed aside by society due to PTSD. My heart went out to him and I wanted someone to give him a helping hand.
I was impressed with the details of drug smuggling and new ways they are able to transport drugs undetected. The town is in an uproar when someone lets slip who they think killed the young girl. You could feel the chaos and rumors as the crowd gathers at what they think is the killer’s home. The author brings us a story that keeps you guessing right up to the end. I have found a new author to add to my list who writes with intensity, honesty and an element of faith.
I received a copy of this book from Revel Publishing. The review is my own opinion.
PTSD, depression, anxiety and suicidal urges are some of the serious issues in Living Lies and the author suggests that our society can harshly judge people who suffer from these illnesses. In this new book Natalie Walters has created several characters with mental health problems who become part of a serious crime. The suspense revolves around the unsolved murder of a teenage girl in Walton, Georgia and the assumption that she was killed by a former soldier who had served in Vietnam. Lane Kent has just come back to her hometown and she is quick to defend this ex-soldier because she believes that, even though he suffers from PTSD, he cannot be capable of murder. Lane understands emotional problems because she herself suffers from anxiety and depression and she has always felt like she was unworthy, flawed, and an unlovable mistake. She feels responsible for her husband’s death and she believes that doesn’t deserve to have that kind of love again. Until….Charlie Lynch becomes the new deputy in Walton, Georgia and feelings of love begin to blossom and to take root.
It is when Lane continues to question her purpose for living that she is told by her very wise older friend “Honey, God never makes mistakes. You are here on purpose, Lane. With purpose.”
Natalie Wells has been able to shine a light on mental health problems and still create a mystery that will keep readers guessing. There are many twists and turns throughout her story and there are several occurences that kept me baffled until the end. I thoroughly enjoyed Living Lies and I recommend it to all who love romantic suspense novels.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell and this is my honest review.
I certainly could not tell that this was a debut book by Natalie Waters. She told the story of Lane Kent and her move to a small town in Georgia absolutely seamlessly. The secrets that Lane takes with her are nothing compared to the secrets that are being hidden in this small town where everyone seems to know everyone else. Lane befriends a Vietnam veteran named Miguel who has to overcome PTSD in order to just survive. She also seeks the help of new deputy Charlie Lynch, also a veteran, because Lane is the one to discover the body of a dead teenager. This book was fantastic and kept my interest all the way to the satisfactory end! There is romance, mystery and the deep topic of depression and how it should be dealt with. I loved that the author was not afraid to tackle the hard topics and that she confronted them with knowledge and sympathy. I will definitely look for more books from this author and highly recommend her books to fans of mystery, intrigue, romance and suspense.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Natalie Waters is a new author to me, and I believe a completely new author, if I am correct. I like trying out new authors, and this is one to keep your eye on if you like Christian suspense. Living Lies is an excellent read, and Walters is off to a great start with this entrance into the Christian fiction world.
What I liked:
1) Setting: I’m not picky about settings, but I do like small town settings where everyone knows everyone. I found the setting for Living Lies attractive and ideal.
2) Characters: They can make or break a story. The author created some great and very likable ones for this book and series. At the center is Charlie and Lane. Charlie is former military, and the new deputy on the force. We fiction lovers get attached to characters, and I found myself really liking him..very cool dude for a fictional character.
I found myself identifying some with Lane. I like it when an author tackles tough issues, and depression is the one in this book. Depression is still something many people don’t understand, especially Christians. Many think it is a spiritual issue and a trip to the altar will fix it. As someone personally dealing with severe depression, I can attest otherwise. I feel Walters did a great job of portraying the realities of it, and the shame that accompanies it.
Books with kids/families in are always ones I enjoy, so of course I liked Noah.
And last, but not least: Deputy Frost, who will star in the next book. A bit geeky, but an expert on computers and eager to prove himself.
3) Suspense. The plot and suspense were great in this book. I had my suspicions fairly early as to the who, but it was fun getting to the reveal point and the “why”.
4) Romance. I’m a guy, single for life, but I do enjoy the romantic aspects of this book. I liked how it was done, and kind of wished it had gone faster, but also felt it was more realistic the way it did go.
What I didn’t like: Well, nothing…..to be honest. I found this a great Christian read, and am looking forward to more from this author.
I was given a copy of this book to review in exchange for my honest review.