I really love Nora Robert’s books. This one was a thriller. Sloan gets shot going into a convenience store and has to go home to recuperate. There she gets involved in finding missing persons. Her and her sister also find friendship and love with neighbors who help remodel her house. A wonderful story

Nora Roberts' latest novel, “Hidden Nature,” readers are taken on an exhilarating journey with main character Sloan Cooper, a determined Natural Resources police officer who has just successfully concluded a demanding operation with her partner, capturing three men who preyed on hikers in the stunning Western Maryland mountains. However, on her way home, Sloan makes a fateful stop at a convenience store, inadvertently walking into an ongoing robbery that radically alters her life. After being miraculously revived on the operating table, she faces a challenging recovery at her parents' serene home in Heron's Rest. Yet, her fierce independence and tenacity shine brighter than ever.

The introduction of her new neighbours, Nash and Theo Littlefield from New York, adds an exciting twist. As they renovate Nash’s home and launch their business, "The Fix It Brothers," Sloan discovers an unexpected ally in Nash, who shares her passion for uncovering the truth. When a woman mysteriously disappears from a supermarket parking lot, Sloan plunges into the investigation, revealing alarming patterns of abductions spanning multiple states.


Roberts masterfully captivates readers with her richly developed characters and an exhilarating plot. The characters, including the determined Sloan, her spirited sister Drea, and their supportive parents, Elsie and Dean, alongside a strong cast of supporting figures, leap to life in this expertly narrated audiobook by January Lavoy. Lavoy’s exceptional narration infuses each character's emotions and personalities with nuance and depth, making listeners feel as though they are witnessing the events unfold in real time, resulting in a truly immersive experience.

While the story is slow to start in the first 25% to establish a solid foundation, it swiftly transforms into a gripping murder mystery that keeps readers engaged. The tension is undeniable as Sloan confronts the unknown and skillfully navigates emerging threats.


Though the narrative may sometimes feel slightly unbalanced, the details of Sloan's daily life and home renovations overshadow the critical aspects of the investigation. A few more scenes showcasing her detective skills would elevate the narrative further. Additionally, while the resolution is somewhat abrupt, this may be a testament to the story's emotional depth, making it all the more impactful.

Overall, this romantic thriller is a standout offering from Roberts. It masterfully intertwines mystery, suspense, romance, and found family. The exploration of strong, independent women and their emotional resilience strikes a powerful chord. Despite some elements that could be further refined, the audiobook format amplifies the experience, making it a must-listen for fans of romantic mysteries and suspense.<br/><br /><b>Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own. I highly recommend this book, which is anticipated to be released on May 27.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are unequivocally my own. I highly recommend this book, which is anticipated to be released on May 27.

Sloan was shot. And while she recovered she went back home. Realizing how much she missed it there she put in a transfuse to stay. But then she meet her new neighbors - the fix it brothers. And slowly Nash became her person. While trying to figure out several missing persons cases.

This book was amazing just like all of Nora’s other books. It keep you engaged and wanting more.

Hidden Nature by Nora Roberts is a slow-burn romantic suspense with heart, grit, and a chilling mystery.

After Natural Resources police officer Sloan Cooper is shot during a convenience store robbery, she’s brought back to life—literally. Recovering in her hometown of Heron’s Rest, she’s forced to rethink everything: her career, her future, and who she wants beside her. But peace doesn’t last long. When a woman disappears from a nearby town, Sloan starts digging—and uncovers a disturbing pattern of similar vanishings across three states.

With the help of Nash, a local contractor with his own baggage and quiet strength, Sloan chases a dangerous truth, one that may put her right back in the crosshairs.

The romance is a slow build, grounded in respect and shared purpose. Nora Roberts’ signature strength shines through her character development, small-town setting, and emotionally rich storytelling. While the pacing leans slow early on and the killer’s POV feels uneven, the story ultimately delivers a solid, satisfying payoff. The mystery is dark but not overwhelming, and the renovation subplot adds warmth and charm.

This is classic Nora: smart women, steady men, found family, and a mystery that unfolds with just enough tension to keep the pages turning.

Thanks to @stmartinspress and Nora Roberts for the gifted ARC.

#HiddenNature #NoraRoberts #RomanticSuspense #SuspenseBooks #ThrillerReads #SlowBurnRomance #BookReview #HeronsRest #MysteryLovers #SmallTownRomance #FoundFamily #FemaleDetective #BooksAndRenovations #ReadMoreRomance #CrimeFiction #Bookstagram #NewRelease2025 #ARCReview #ReadersOfIn

This book had SUCH likeable characters which is shown in the high review rating. Even though the story was told very slow, I didn't mind because I truly enjoyed every single character, well besides the villains but you know what I mean!

Nora always nails it by combining mysteries and romance. It's about the only kind of romance books I can read anymore without cringing!

This one actually felt like a plot of a Criminal Minds episode and I LOVE that. I felt like I was just trying to figure out the villian's next move while also trying not to freak out about something potentially happening to the characters I deeply cared about.

Overall, a very good read with likeable characters but could have easily been a much shorter book. At least 5 hours shorter. I felt like there was a lot of unnecessary scenes, dialogue, and details that were not crucial to the storyline. Did those scenes get me to love the characters more? Yes. Did they have to be included? No. If they weren't this would have been a much faster paced thrill!

I received an advance copy of this book. I really liked Sloan and her sister. Some of the plot seemed unbelievable, but not in a bad way. I appreciated that it is set in Maryland, so there was familiarity built in for me. In the end, I had become invested in the characters and I was happy with how the story wrapped up. Maybe there will be another with the same family?

I absolutely loved Hidden Nature by Nora Roberts. Narrated by January LaVoy, she truly brought this story to life for me and it started with a bang. Natural Resources police officer Sloan Cooper had just closed a case and was off duty when her world is changed when she walks in on a robbery in progress. When she dies in the hospital, she has an out of body experience she remembers and that has her fighting to get back on track. During her recovery, a woman vanishes and she begins investigating and discovers something more sinister is happening.

When the Fix It Bros, Nash and Theo move to her town, things are about to change for more than just Sloan. I loved how strong Sloan was. She was so determined, smart and decisive. Nash was very protective, caring and determined, even as he was cautious. Ready to start fresh, he and his brother are turning a new leaf for themselves. I truly enjoyed reading this story and not just for the main characters and the suspense, but also the secondary characters and as always, the dogs that stole the show.

As Sloan investigates disappearances, she learns what they have in common and that it may put her right in the crosshairs. We get to follow her journey not only as she investigates what is going on, but as she finds herself and her future, but her time with Nash as well. This is Nora at what she does best and I devoured this over the weekend. Another must-read by this author.

Happy listening!

I listened to the audiobook version of this story. The story itself was good. You wanted to know what was happening next. The narration is where it took a turn.
In an attempt to distinguish the different characters voices she gave them a childlike daft personality. It nearly made me stop listening it was so annoying. Every-time she said “doll” I cringed.
The story had great characters, great detail into the crime. I wouldn’t recommend wasting your time being annoyed by the audiobook. Read the story instead. I hope they recast the narrator.

A corporal with the Natural Resources Police Special Opps division, Sloan Cooper is an analytical, determined, strong, capable, and caring female main character with a family that will wrap you in a warm hug to keep you safe. On her way home with her partner from a finished op, they stop at a gas station, inadvertently walking into a robbery in progress that sees her at death’s door. Fast forward and Sloan’s recovery takes her to family at Heron’s Rest where she begins digging into a missing person’s case.

Roberts’ descriptions of setting and character bring the details of Sloan’s world to life. Told largely through Sloan’s point of view, parts of the novel are narrated by the perpetrator. I wasn’t as keen on the second perspective, as I found this character to be sugary sweet and delusional, which of course, is as it should have been and fit right in with the narrative. Part psychological thriller, part romance, part police procedural, I devoured “Hidden Nature” in a few short days. Sloan’s investigative mind fascinated me and I’d love to see her a recurring character in other books.

I loved the dual romances which developed throughout the narrative, the family and friends connections (who feel like real life people you want to spend time with), the descriptions of the setting, and the pacing of Roberts’ writing. If you’ve been following for a while you know that I love a good Nora Roberts’ book. Her suspense/thriller books with a side of romance are the perfect combination.

Thank you to @macmillan.audio and @stmartinspress for the complimentary advance audio and ebooks on @netgalley which I absolutely tore through. I primarily listened to the audiobook narrated by the uber talented January Lavoy. Available May 27, 2025.

#mysteryandthrillers #suspensenovels #noraroberts #norarobertshiddennature #hiddennature #netgalley #macmillanaudio #stmartinspress #fyp #readingismyfavourite #sunshinereader #januarylavoy @norarobertsauthor @januarylavoy

I am a hardcore Nora Roberts fan! Every book she publishes, I will read. This one was a 5 star read for me. Sloan Cooper is shot in the line of duty. We get to follow her long road to recovery. Sloan is hardcore and overcomes the biggest nightmare - injury in the line of duty and need to be shocked on the table. I loved the romantic interest in this book but it was not the headliner. Sloan carried this story and she solves the mystery of who is now murdering people in the surrounding areas... people who have died on the table and were brought back. I highly recommend this fast paced, romantic thriller!

Hidden Nature by Nora Roberts is a gripping standalone book that follows Sloan Cooper, a Natural Resources police officer. After being shot during a convenience store robbery, Sloan returns to her hometown of Heron’s Rest to recover. As she heals, she becomes intrigued by a series of mysterious disappearances across three states. Determined to uncover the truth, Sloan dives into an investigation that reveals a chilling pattern and puts her own life at risk.

I was hooked right from the beginning of the story. I found it to be engaging with a well-paced plot filled with action and unexpected twists. I liked the multiple points of view, they added depth which allowed insight into various characters' perspectives. I really like the supporting characters, they were entertaining and added warmth to the narrative.

This was the first Nora Roberts book I've read under her name, and I'm glad I did. I'm familiar with her work as J.D. Robb in the In Death series which I am also currently reading and absolutely love.

The audiobook, narrated by January LaVoy, was excellent. Her clear narration and ability to distinguish between characters enhanced the listening experience. I always enjoy books she narrates, and this one was no exception.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing the advance listening copy in exchange for my honest review.

I really enjoyed Hidden Nature, especially January LaVoy’s narration! Nora Roberts’ annual romantic suspense novels can be hit or miss for me as they’re fairly formulaic. I probably liked this book more than some as it gave me some “In Death” vibes, probably because we get the killers’ POV throughout the story. I liked Sloan’s character/personality and enjoyed her family interactions. Her interactions as a Natural Resources police officer was super cool. I didn’t feel that we got to know Nash’s character as much but it’s Sloan’s story after all!

Nora Roberts is a mastermind. Not that that’s news to anyone. This book had me on the edge of my (bed) seat the entire time! A murder, romance, suspense combo with home town feel and a strong FMC. I loved this one I will absolutely be buying my book trophy to add to my shelf!

Thank you so much NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for my advanced copy!

Thank you netgalley for the arc of this book in audio. I really like Nora Roberts book. This one was a thriller. Sloane was shot and had a while to regain her strength so she moved back with her parents while she recuperated. She ended up running into some disappearance cases and got really invested into them. She found love interest who she talked to about the cases who is helping her uncover the truth.
I really enjoyed this book and the narrator was great.

Sloan Cooper returns to her hometown after being shot in the line of duty. She must find the strength to heal and move forward. While rebuilding her life, Sloan stumbles upon a streak of mysterious disappearances, which sends her down another dangerous path.

Suspenseful Thriller meets HGTV! Sloan is a relatable main character who allows readers to connect with her almost immediately. This story is about growth, family, romance, and serial killers! A little bit for everyone! And a LOT of home renovation and design talk. Yet, somehow, all the random parts work together for an interesting read!

Advanced Listening Copy provided by Netgalley and Macmillan Audio. All opinions are my own.

I always love a Nora Roberts read/listen. Hidden Nature does not disappoint and January LaVoy is one of the best narrators in the business.

Sloan Cooper, a Natural Resources Officer, is shot in the line of duty and goes back to her parents home in Heron’s Rest to recuperate. She quickly finds herself investigating a set of disappearances that touch a little too close to home. Brothers Nash and Theo have also recently moved to Heron’s Rest and prove to be amazing characters. Sloan won’t rest until she puts all the pieces together and along the way finds the life she didn’t know she was looking for.

A blend of mystery, suspense, thriller and romance. Excellent read.

Thank you to NetGalley for the Advanced Reader Copy audiobook in exchange for my honest review.

Officer Sloan Cooper and her partner pull in at a convenience store and interrupt an armed robbery in progress. After being shocked back to life on the operating table, she has a long recovery ahead, so she moves back to her parents’ house in Heron’s Rest. While she is recovering, bored and missing her job, she discovers a string of missing men and women, spread across three states. She can't see an immediate connection, but her gut tells her to keep looking. And when the abductions continue, her gut proves her correct. Luckily, the new man in her life shares her passion for solving this mystery. But it will take every ounce of endurance to get to the dark heart of this bizarre case—and she's willing to risk her life again if that's what it takes to stop the horror.

This is my new favorite thriller by this author. It kept me engrossed from the very first chapter. The story is told in alternating viewpoints between Sloan and killers. As you find out more of the killers' motives, and as Sloan's investigation ramps up, she winds up in their crosshairs. Sloan made an excellent female protaganist, and I really liked the budding romance she had going on with Nash. January LaVoy did an excellent job narrating the book and making it come to life. If you love a good thriller, then you will definitely want to add this to the top of your TBR pile!

As a longtime Nora Roberts fan, I was thrilled to receive an ARC of her latest book—it’s been years since I last read one of hers, and I was excited to dive back in.

Overall, the book delivered a solid thriller that kept me engaged and eager to find out how it would all unfold. That said, there were a few drawbacks that stood out. At times, the story felt a bit drawn out, with details that didn’t seem necessary—like a mention of a haircut that didn’t add anything to the plot.

I also found the tonal shifts a bit jarring; it would jump from a romantic scene straight into a murder, which disrupted the flow and made it feel disjointed at times.

Still, the characters were likable, and despite the pacing issues, I genuinely enjoyed the read.
Rating: 3.75/5
Release Date: May 27, 2025

This was my first Nora Roberts book, and it was definitely average for me. I found the beginning really dragged on for quite a while, probably the first half. The second half of the book definitely picked up and I found myself enjoying it more. The narrator is definitely what kept me going since I eyeball read the first half!

I will say I was disappointed there was no crazy twist, and I didn't particularly like the villain's POV, but overall it was a decent mystery/thriller/splash of romance.

Sloan Cooper, a Natural Resources police officer, barely survives a convenience store robbery gone sideways after wrapping up a major case in the Maryland mountains. One panicked gunshot later, she’s clinging to life—only to be shocked back on the operating table. Now, with a long road of recovery ahead, she heads back to her hometown of Heron’s Rest to heal at her parents’ quiet home.

But Sloan isn’t one to sit still for long. As she regains strength, she’s pulled into a strange case involving missing people and strange happenings she just can’t explain. Something’s off—and she can’t ignore it. With the help of a capable new love interest who’s not only good with tools but also with uncovering the truth, Sloan is determined to get answers.

January was a wonderful narrator & added greatly to the story!

A solid mix of suspense, second chances, and small-town charm, this story delivers a slow burn mystery with heart. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced audio copy in exchange for my honest review.