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Memories of Murder
When Maeve McKenna renounces her witch powers and accepts a low-key nurse practitioner position at a Virginia retirement community, the last thing she expects is a suicide her first day on the job. As the town’s sexy sheriff, Paul Sutton, starts looking into the tragic death of his father’s friend, Maeve can’t help but get involved--with both the case and him.
Their informal investigation unveils an old journal that connects the ruins of a nearby asylum and long-forgotten cemetery with the shiny new retirement community’s memory unit--and Maeve’s Alzheimer’s patients. Maeve senses a sinister presence in the old asylum, calling to the patients, but in order to stop it from killing again, she must first conquer some demons of her own and reclaim the magic she's denied herself.
Their informal investigation unveils an old journal that connects the ruins of a nearby asylum and long-forgotten cemetery with the shiny new retirement community’s memory unit--and Maeve’s Alzheimer’s patients. Maeve senses a sinister presence in the old asylum, calling to the patients, but in order to stop it from killing again, she must first conquer some demons of her own and reclaim the magic she's denied herself.
275 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 28, 2011
About the author
Lara Nance
38 books79 followersLara Nance grew up and lived in many cities throughout the South. She loves to write in a variety of genres, but the basis of all her stories is a tale that will entertain and intrigue.
If you want to escape and lose yourself in a novel, you’ve come to the right place. Choose your genre and settle in to be entertained. From thrilling mysteries and steampunk tales, to paranormal romance and sci-fi adventures, Lara’s willing to explore a variety of compelling stories full of danger and suspense, with a touch of romance.
Her first paranormal romance, Memories of Murder, won RWA’s New England Chapter’s readers’ choice award in 2012 for Best Paranormal Romance, as well as an award of merit as Best Book from a Virginia Author in the Holt Medallion contest. In 2013, her novel DraculaVille – Discovery in New York, won the Rudy award for best novel with romantic elements.
Having been on the fencing team in college and now living on a sailboat convinces her that she was a pirate in another life, or possibly kin to Errol Flynn… However, due to the unfortunate demise of the romantic pirates of the past, she lives out her fantasies, thrills and adventures in her stories.
Our sailboat stopped in Florida after a trip down the Intracoastal and we're still there.
If you want to escape and lose yourself in a novel, you’ve come to the right place. Choose your genre and settle in to be entertained. From thrilling mysteries and steampunk tales, to paranormal romance and sci-fi adventures, Lara’s willing to explore a variety of compelling stories full of danger and suspense, with a touch of romance.
Her first paranormal romance, Memories of Murder, won RWA’s New England Chapter’s readers’ choice award in 2012 for Best Paranormal Romance, as well as an award of merit as Best Book from a Virginia Author in the Holt Medallion contest. In 2013, her novel DraculaVille – Discovery in New York, won the Rudy award for best novel with romantic elements.
Having been on the fencing team in college and now living on a sailboat convinces her that she was a pirate in another life, or possibly kin to Errol Flynn… However, due to the unfortunate demise of the romantic pirates of the past, she lives out her fantasies, thrills and adventures in her stories.
Our sailboat stopped in Florida after a trip down the Intracoastal and we're still there.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
April 30, 2012
Memories of Murder just won the Bean Pot award! Best paranormal romance in New England Romance Writrs REader Choice awards for 2012!
January 29, 2013
MEMORIES OF MURDER by Lara Nance
ABOUT THE BOOK:
When Maeve McKenna renounces her witch powers and accepts a low-key nurse practitioner position at a Virginia retirement community, the last thing she expects is a suicide her first day on the job. As the town's sexy sheriff, Paul Sutton, starts looking into the tragic death of his father's friend, Maeve can't help but get involved--with both the case and him. Their informal investigation unveils an old journal that connects the ruins of a nearby asylum and long-forgotten cemetery with the shiny new retirement community's memory unit--and Maeve's Alzheimer's patients. Maeve senses a sinister presence in the old asylum, calling to the patients, but in order to stop it from killing again, she must first conquer some demons of her own and reclaim the magic she's denied herself
REVIEW: Maeve is a natural witch descended from a long line of Celtic witches whose powers come naturally. But Maeve suffers with a secret and has disavowed her heritage and bound her powers fearing a loss of control. Hoping to escape her past Maeve arrives in the small town of Rolling Gap as the new nurse practitioner only to discover that life in this particular small town has been affected by its own past.
Former Green Beret Paul Sutton is Rolling Gap’s new sheriff and very much interested in Maeve. But Paul’s father is suffering with severe memory loss and Alzheimer’s symptoms and the disease appears to be affecting an otherwise healthy man without any previous signs-the only thing connecting these patients is an abandoned graveyard hidden behind the ruins of an old asylum and a ‘crazy woman’ believed to be a witch. As Paul and Maeve begin to investigate an unexplained death, the mystery illness affecting his father, and the strange happenings in and around Golden Acres Retirement Home both will be pulled together in a storm of passion and an evil so dark that the dead refuse to rest. Very powerful forces were at work.
MEMORIES OF MURDER is a well-written mystery/suspense storyline with a paranormal twist. Lara introduces a cast of interesting secondary characters including the ‘Gems’-Maeve’s eccentric and equally powerful witches as well as a family penchant for a glass or two of wine! The relationship between Maeve and Paul hits a few rocky spots and it seems that Paul needs to apologize a time or two when he refuses to acknowledge his feelings or his anger. If you like a murder mystery with a paranormal twist, Memories of Murder will keep you on the edge of your proverbial seat. A great read by author Lara Nance.
Copy supplied by author.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
When Maeve McKenna renounces her witch powers and accepts a low-key nurse practitioner position at a Virginia retirement community, the last thing she expects is a suicide her first day on the job. As the town's sexy sheriff, Paul Sutton, starts looking into the tragic death of his father's friend, Maeve can't help but get involved--with both the case and him. Their informal investigation unveils an old journal that connects the ruins of a nearby asylum and long-forgotten cemetery with the shiny new retirement community's memory unit--and Maeve's Alzheimer's patients. Maeve senses a sinister presence in the old asylum, calling to the patients, but in order to stop it from killing again, she must first conquer some demons of her own and reclaim the magic she's denied herself
REVIEW: Maeve is a natural witch descended from a long line of Celtic witches whose powers come naturally. But Maeve suffers with a secret and has disavowed her heritage and bound her powers fearing a loss of control. Hoping to escape her past Maeve arrives in the small town of Rolling Gap as the new nurse practitioner only to discover that life in this particular small town has been affected by its own past.
Former Green Beret Paul Sutton is Rolling Gap’s new sheriff and very much interested in Maeve. But Paul’s father is suffering with severe memory loss and Alzheimer’s symptoms and the disease appears to be affecting an otherwise healthy man without any previous signs-the only thing connecting these patients is an abandoned graveyard hidden behind the ruins of an old asylum and a ‘crazy woman’ believed to be a witch. As Paul and Maeve begin to investigate an unexplained death, the mystery illness affecting his father, and the strange happenings in and around Golden Acres Retirement Home both will be pulled together in a storm of passion and an evil so dark that the dead refuse to rest. Very powerful forces were at work.
MEMORIES OF MURDER is a well-written mystery/suspense storyline with a paranormal twist. Lara introduces a cast of interesting secondary characters including the ‘Gems’-Maeve’s eccentric and equally powerful witches as well as a family penchant for a glass or two of wine! The relationship between Maeve and Paul hits a few rocky spots and it seems that Paul needs to apologize a time or two when he refuses to acknowledge his feelings or his anger. If you like a murder mystery with a paranormal twist, Memories of Murder will keep you on the edge of your proverbial seat. A great read by author Lara Nance.
Copy supplied by author.
July 29, 2013
I really liked this book!! It was a nice paranormal mystery with a touch of romance. I really wish they would make a sequel to the book. The characters in the book were just great. You couldn't help but like them and the story was a real page turner.
May 23, 2012
Loved the creepy setting. It doesn't get much scarier than a haunted cemetery at an asylum. Great pacing made this a quick and enjoyable read.
August 5, 2017
Good book
You people should just read this book yourselves and write your own review on this novel yourself and I really enjoyed reading this book very much so. Shelley MA
You people should just read this book yourselves and write your own review on this novel yourself and I really enjoyed reading this book very much so. Shelley MA
September 30, 2011
Maeve has bound her powers. She never thought she'd be able hurt anyone, never imagining her powers would be strong enough to kill. After months of healing from the attack and the ordeal with mother, Opal, at their Savannah home, along the Gems, Aunt Ruby and Aunt Pearl, she's ready to face life on her own. But, her life is going to take a new direction. She accepts a position as nurse practitioner at a retirement community in the small town of Rolling Gap. And, already, things aren't looking up. On her first day, she witnesses a suicide. She came for quiet and finds turmoil.
Golden Acres, as it is fondling called by the townies, has a sordid past that comes back to haunt this newbie to community. A one-time asylum resided on the grounds, as well as a cemetery where the remains rest of those who died while locked away in the cruel asylum with it's sadistic doctor.
Paul Sutton, now sheriff of Rolling Gap, takes over for his father when he suffers from early onset of Alzheimer's. His dementia and decline happen rapidly, and George Sutton becomes a resident of Golden Acres. Paul discovers a case his father was working with Nellie Dunbar, Rolling Gap's local crazy. Her great-grandmother was one of those lost to the cruelties of the asylum but she convinces George to investigate the old asylum, and Paul takes over. But, Maeve becomes involved in the case when things don't add up, and Paul finds himself draw to the nurse practitioner. Can he accept Maeve with her witchy abilities? Can Maeve accept Paul's attention after her attack and near rape?
Memories of Murder by Lara Nance is a paranormal romance / romantic suspense centered around a century old asylum. Though most of the asylum is gone, the main building still houses the dementia unit of Golden Acres, and the cemetery remains hidden on the grounds somewhere. After Maeve experiences strange occurrences, she decides to investigate the asylum, if for nothing else than to bring peace to Nellie. She encourages Paul, and after a couple of supernatural accidents, he's convinced he needs to follow through with the investigation too. He soon discovers Maeve's secret she's hiding. All this time, Maeve's family (Opal, Ruby, and Pearl) take up residence in Rolling Gap after some ominous premonitions and Pearl's odd vision of events yet to come. They've come to help, offering protection for Maeve and Paul as well as their abilities to excise the evil surrounding Golden Acres.
Memories of Murder is an exciting paranormal romantic suspense with a heroine, Maeve, who isn't sure of herself anymore, not since killing her attacker. Could she accidentally lose control, could she kill again? Instead of finding out, she binds her magic away, right at the time she might need it the most. Paul, the hero of our story, finds himself trapped in the small town where he grew up. He thought his life belonged to military, instead, he's the new sheriff of his hometown. Neither character has ended up where they thought their lives would be. But, together, each comes to realize that they're just where their supposed to be, where they're needed the most, where they want to be.
Memories of Murder was a quick little read, turning pages filled with magic and suspense. Celtic magic mixes with a sickness long existing from the old asylum. A long forgotten heritage begging for release, loves lost and found, and a mystery to be solved. An excellent read to warm chilly nights or heat up those air conditioned summer afternoons. I recommend this read to a variety of readers, paranormal romance lovers, romantic suspense lovers, and magic lovers will all want to give this enticing little read a try. I very much enjoyed it. 5 out 5 fairy kisses for this reader.
Golden Acres, as it is fondling called by the townies, has a sordid past that comes back to haunt this newbie to community. A one-time asylum resided on the grounds, as well as a cemetery where the remains rest of those who died while locked away in the cruel asylum with it's sadistic doctor.
Paul Sutton, now sheriff of Rolling Gap, takes over for his father when he suffers from early onset of Alzheimer's. His dementia and decline happen rapidly, and George Sutton becomes a resident of Golden Acres. Paul discovers a case his father was working with Nellie Dunbar, Rolling Gap's local crazy. Her great-grandmother was one of those lost to the cruelties of the asylum but she convinces George to investigate the old asylum, and Paul takes over. But, Maeve becomes involved in the case when things don't add up, and Paul finds himself draw to the nurse practitioner. Can he accept Maeve with her witchy abilities? Can Maeve accept Paul's attention after her attack and near rape?
Memories of Murder by Lara Nance is a paranormal romance / romantic suspense centered around a century old asylum. Though most of the asylum is gone, the main building still houses the dementia unit of Golden Acres, and the cemetery remains hidden on the grounds somewhere. After Maeve experiences strange occurrences, she decides to investigate the asylum, if for nothing else than to bring peace to Nellie. She encourages Paul, and after a couple of supernatural accidents, he's convinced he needs to follow through with the investigation too. He soon discovers Maeve's secret she's hiding. All this time, Maeve's family (Opal, Ruby, and Pearl) take up residence in Rolling Gap after some ominous premonitions and Pearl's odd vision of events yet to come. They've come to help, offering protection for Maeve and Paul as well as their abilities to excise the evil surrounding Golden Acres.
Memories of Murder is an exciting paranormal romantic suspense with a heroine, Maeve, who isn't sure of herself anymore, not since killing her attacker. Could she accidentally lose control, could she kill again? Instead of finding out, she binds her magic away, right at the time she might need it the most. Paul, the hero of our story, finds himself trapped in the small town where he grew up. He thought his life belonged to military, instead, he's the new sheriff of his hometown. Neither character has ended up where they thought their lives would be. But, together, each comes to realize that they're just where their supposed to be, where they're needed the most, where they want to be.
Memories of Murder was a quick little read, turning pages filled with magic and suspense. Celtic magic mixes with a sickness long existing from the old asylum. A long forgotten heritage begging for release, loves lost and found, and a mystery to be solved. An excellent read to warm chilly nights or heat up those air conditioned summer afternoons. I recommend this read to a variety of readers, paranormal romance lovers, romantic suspense lovers, and magic lovers will all want to give this enticing little read a try. I very much enjoyed it. 5 out 5 fairy kisses for this reader.
February 22, 2013
Maeve has escaped to another town and changed her name to escape her past. Having lived through a violent ordeal, she takes a job as a nurse practitioner in a quiet community at a retirement community. Unfortunately, her first day on the job starts in the worst possible way. Upon arrival, a resident jumps to his death right in front of her.
Convinced that the man saw someone near him before he jumped, she relays her concerns to Sherriff Paul, who’s not convinced. She begins more concerned when she finds out that the man was a prominent lawyer until recently when he was placed in the dementia wing. Could he really have deteriorated that quickly?
Normally, she would have used her powers to assist her as she is a witch. But when her violent altercation from the past had caused her to kill her attacker, she did away with her abilities. Is there more going on in this sleepy town than meets the eye & if so, can she handle it as a normal human?
Although I tried to keep an open mind regarding the main character & her craft, I still had issues with this book. I found the plot quite confusing from the start. Perhaps if the author had begun by replaying Maeve’s past experiences first, before delving into the suicide scenario, it would’ve been easier to understand.
Regardless, the characters reactions to a man falling to his death right in front of them seemed unrealistic & cold. Everyone seemed more concerned with Maeve’s state of mind, though they’d just met her, than with the dead man on the sidewalk. Even the first responders seemed as if this was just another day.
In my opinion, it is a disappointing first impression for me from Lara Nance. Perhaps other readers will have a different opinion. As always, if you believe a book will appeal to you, by all means, give it a try. Personally, it’s a 3 out of 5 star novel to me.
I received 1 eBook to give my honest review.
Convinced that the man saw someone near him before he jumped, she relays her concerns to Sherriff Paul, who’s not convinced. She begins more concerned when she finds out that the man was a prominent lawyer until recently when he was placed in the dementia wing. Could he really have deteriorated that quickly?
Normally, she would have used her powers to assist her as she is a witch. But when her violent altercation from the past had caused her to kill her attacker, she did away with her abilities. Is there more going on in this sleepy town than meets the eye & if so, can she handle it as a normal human?
Although I tried to keep an open mind regarding the main character & her craft, I still had issues with this book. I found the plot quite confusing from the start. Perhaps if the author had begun by replaying Maeve’s past experiences first, before delving into the suicide scenario, it would’ve been easier to understand.
Regardless, the characters reactions to a man falling to his death right in front of them seemed unrealistic & cold. Everyone seemed more concerned with Maeve’s state of mind, though they’d just met her, than with the dead man on the sidewalk. Even the first responders seemed as if this was just another day.
In my opinion, it is a disappointing first impression for me from Lara Nance. Perhaps other readers will have a different opinion. As always, if you believe a book will appeal to you, by all means, give it a try. Personally, it’s a 3 out of 5 star novel to me.
I received 1 eBook to give my honest review.
February 27, 2013
I found 'Memories of Murder' like a pass the parcel present at a birthday party - multi layered, fun to open and surprising!
Lara Nance's book is a paranormal story about a locked witch who has stumbled upon strange events in the town of Rolling Gap. She has run there to escape her own ghosts after being attacked and forced to use her powers on the man, killing him. She has accepted a position a position as a nurse practitioner in a small town, where there is a non-existent crime rate, and has bound her witch powers.
Lara Nance immediately brings the reader into the drama, as we experience Ed's death with Maeve, but the author has left us as ignorant to the events as the new arrival, which makes the first chapter a shock. Although there is an indication that Maeve feels a 'presence' she does not specify that she is a witch until later chapters which leaves an ambivalence about her character and the paranormal aspects of the book. I definitely enjoyed this element of surprise.
The plot of 'Memories of Murder' was certainly far more complicated. emotional and honest than I expected it to be. Although Maeve's family, the Gems and Cherry provided the gaiety and cheer in the novel, there are also times when Lara Nance guarantees that the reader will need their tissues ready!
The author is also very successful in building a romance story alongside the frightening back story of the hospital which emerges. The romance never replaces the main story though, it just provides relief and shows Lara Nance as a more talented writer.
'Memories of Murder' should definitely be on a TBR, especially for fans of witches. However, this story offers readers far more than that so I think so many other fans would be satisfied too!
Lara Nance's book is a paranormal story about a locked witch who has stumbled upon strange events in the town of Rolling Gap. She has run there to escape her own ghosts after being attacked and forced to use her powers on the man, killing him. She has accepted a position a position as a nurse practitioner in a small town, where there is a non-existent crime rate, and has bound her witch powers.
Lara Nance immediately brings the reader into the drama, as we experience Ed's death with Maeve, but the author has left us as ignorant to the events as the new arrival, which makes the first chapter a shock. Although there is an indication that Maeve feels a 'presence' she does not specify that she is a witch until later chapters which leaves an ambivalence about her character and the paranormal aspects of the book. I definitely enjoyed this element of surprise.
The plot of 'Memories of Murder' was certainly far more complicated. emotional and honest than I expected it to be. Although Maeve's family, the Gems and Cherry provided the gaiety and cheer in the novel, there are also times when Lara Nance guarantees that the reader will need their tissues ready!
The author is also very successful in building a romance story alongside the frightening back story of the hospital which emerges. The romance never replaces the main story though, it just provides relief and shows Lara Nance as a more talented writer.
'Memories of Murder' should definitely be on a TBR, especially for fans of witches. However, this story offers readers far more than that so I think so many other fans would be satisfied too!
March 4, 2013
Maeve is a strong woman who is recovering from a scary attack. After spending some time in Savannah with her family she moves to a small town and takes a job as the nurse practitioner in a retirement community. She thinks that a new job in a new place will help her start over...and keep her from using her witch powers that she vows to keep bound.
But soon after Maeve moves to town one of the residents at the retirement community jumps to his death. The murder investigation brings handsome sheriff Paul into Maeve's life but it also brings up memories of her attack. Soon she is struggling between falling for the sheriff, keeping her witch powers bound, and helping with the investigation.
This book was well written and easy to follow. Maeve is a strong main character who has some internal and external struggles that cause her to make some tough decisions. The budding relationship between Maeve and Paul was fun to imagine because while they liked each other, they did hit a few rocky patches as all new couples do.
The Gems, Maeve's mother and her aunts, are also witches. They bring fun to the story and really fill in the gaps. They may be the life of the party but they love Maeve and use their powers to help her solve the mysteries that surround the retirement community.
While parts of the ending were predictable, there were one or two twists that I definitely didn't see coming. I enjoyed reading this book and finished it in a couple of days. It was an easy and fun read.
I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
But soon after Maeve moves to town one of the residents at the retirement community jumps to his death. The murder investigation brings handsome sheriff Paul into Maeve's life but it also brings up memories of her attack. Soon she is struggling between falling for the sheriff, keeping her witch powers bound, and helping with the investigation.
This book was well written and easy to follow. Maeve is a strong main character who has some internal and external struggles that cause her to make some tough decisions. The budding relationship between Maeve and Paul was fun to imagine because while they liked each other, they did hit a few rocky patches as all new couples do.
The Gems, Maeve's mother and her aunts, are also witches. They bring fun to the story and really fill in the gaps. They may be the life of the party but they love Maeve and use their powers to help her solve the mysteries that surround the retirement community.
While parts of the ending were predictable, there were one or two twists that I definitely didn't see coming. I enjoyed reading this book and finished it in a couple of days. It was an easy and fun read.
I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
January 6, 2014
This book pulls you in from the first page. Right from the start you want to keep reading to see what happens next.
This book had a lot of mystery, suspense, horror, paranormal and a bit of romance.
Maeve a pretty red head who has a special hidden talent and a traumatic past wants to start over so she moves to a small town to start fresh. But right from the start she realizes something isn’t right.
Paul a handsome small town boy who became a green beret is pretty much forced back home when he finds out his father has become ill. He takes over the job as sheriff.
Maeve and Paul meet her first day in town when something terrible happens. Can they work together to solve the mystery? Will the secrets Maeve is hiding prevent that?
I enjoyed the characters of the mother and aunts. They brought fun and laughter to brighten up the book. The reading of the journal really made the story pop.
The ending wasn’t what I expected. There were a few unexpected things that happened.
All in all this was a pretty good book. I have a few issues with it though. Like for instance, I do not understand Maeve’s reaction to what happened in her past. I understand she didn’t want to use her talent to kill but in self defense it should have been okay.
I think that if Lara gave us a little bit more background into what happened with Maeve before she came to Rolling Gap that I might of understood her situation more. Also I do not know if it was just my copy of the book or not but there were names missing. Other than that I think it was overall a good book.
This book had a lot of mystery, suspense, horror, paranormal and a bit of romance.
Maeve a pretty red head who has a special hidden talent and a traumatic past wants to start over so she moves to a small town to start fresh. But right from the start she realizes something isn’t right.
Paul a handsome small town boy who became a green beret is pretty much forced back home when he finds out his father has become ill. He takes over the job as sheriff.
Maeve and Paul meet her first day in town when something terrible happens. Can they work together to solve the mystery? Will the secrets Maeve is hiding prevent that?
I enjoyed the characters of the mother and aunts. They brought fun and laughter to brighten up the book. The reading of the journal really made the story pop.
The ending wasn’t what I expected. There were a few unexpected things that happened.
All in all this was a pretty good book. I have a few issues with it though. Like for instance, I do not understand Maeve’s reaction to what happened in her past. I understand she didn’t want to use her talent to kill but in self defense it should have been okay.
I think that if Lara gave us a little bit more background into what happened with Maeve before she came to Rolling Gap that I might of understood her situation more. Also I do not know if it was just my copy of the book or not but there were names missing. Other than that I think it was overall a good book.
February 10, 2013
After surviving a violent attack witch Maeve McKenna binds her powers and moves to a small Virginia town to become the nurse practitioner at a retirement community. Her first day on the job starts off tragically as one of the patients in the dementia ward commits suicide. The more Maeve delves into the mystery surrounding the death the more convinced she becomes that something supernatural is haunting the building and patients. Sheriff Paul Sutton agrees that the death is suspicious and has personal reasons for solving the case; his father is a patient in the dementia ward and has become a target for the malevolent forces seeking to hide dark secrets from the past.
Together, Maeve and Paul delve into the history of the old asylum that previously resided on the property and uncover horrible cases of abuse and torture. Maeve must come to terms with her powers and straight-laced Paul must learn to believe in things that falls far outside his experiences of rules and regulations in order to prevent any additional deaths and set the spirits of the past at rest.
Memories of Murder is a fast paced paranormal romance and the pages seem to turn themselves. Lara Nance has created such a vivid world and characters that are easily relatable and compelling. There are plenty of twists and turns and just when I think that Maeve and Paul have triumphed, we're thrown for another loop. Memories of Murder is an excellent read and one you should pick up ASAP.
Together, Maeve and Paul delve into the history of the old asylum that previously resided on the property and uncover horrible cases of abuse and torture. Maeve must come to terms with her powers and straight-laced Paul must learn to believe in things that falls far outside his experiences of rules and regulations in order to prevent any additional deaths and set the spirits of the past at rest.
Memories of Murder is a fast paced paranormal romance and the pages seem to turn themselves. Lara Nance has created such a vivid world and characters that are easily relatable and compelling. There are plenty of twists and turns and just when I think that Maeve and Paul have triumphed, we're thrown for another loop. Memories of Murder is an excellent read and one you should pick up ASAP.
April 7, 2011
Maeve McKenna is a nurse practitioner looking to escape a recent traumatic event by accepting a job at a retirement community clinic in a new town. Her first day on the job brings her face to face with a suspicious patient suicide and the intriguing, good-looking sheriff.
Paul Sutton is a green beret who’s moved back home to take over his father’s job as sheriff of the small town where the retirement community is located.
While investigating the suicide, Maeve and Paul start to notice other suspicious occurrences around the retirement community, which is located where an old insane asylum used to sit. Together with Meave’s mother and aunts – referred to as the “Gems” – Paul and Maeve must figure out what evil is harming the members of the dementia ward at the retirement community before the evil targets them.
Due to the traumatic event in her past, Maeve has bound her witch powers, and struggles with whether or not to embrace her heritage to fight the evil. Being a former Green Beret, Paul much prefers fighting what he can see and touch, but the evil they face forces him to accept that this is one battle Maeve may be better prepared to fight.
Paul Sutton is a green beret who’s moved back home to take over his father’s job as sheriff of the small town where the retirement community is located.
While investigating the suicide, Maeve and Paul start to notice other suspicious occurrences around the retirement community, which is located where an old insane asylum used to sit. Together with Meave’s mother and aunts – referred to as the “Gems” – Paul and Maeve must figure out what evil is harming the members of the dementia ward at the retirement community before the evil targets them.
Due to the traumatic event in her past, Maeve has bound her witch powers, and struggles with whether or not to embrace her heritage to fight the evil. Being a former Green Beret, Paul much prefers fighting what he can see and touch, but the evil they face forces him to accept that this is one battle Maeve may be better prepared to fight.
April 3, 2012
Maeve has bound herself from using the witchcraft that saved her in an attack, she has picked up and moved away - hiding herself in a small town with deep, dark secrets that seem not to want to rest. In her new job as a nurse practicioner at the retirement home she is immediately greeted with a falling body of one of the patients. The new sheriff in town, Paul has been assigned the case and sparks begin to fly (as each is growing from their past). Maeve's mother and aunts come to Rolling Gap because of the signs and visions they bein to recieve, believing the danger lurking is more powerful than one can fight. When the dead are unrested and the evil that lurks grows can Maeve, Paul, and her family fight the darkness and bring light to those that need it?
I could not put this down, wonderfully written, with twists, turns, a supernatural plot added in - I became fearful with each passing chapter and found the ending fulfilling. The characters jumped off the pages, secondary characters being very colorful and vivid you can't help but find them endearing.
I could not put this down, wonderfully written, with twists, turns, a supernatural plot added in - I became fearful with each passing chapter and found the ending fulfilling. The characters jumped off the pages, secondary characters being very colorful and vivid you can't help but find them endearing.
February 19, 2013
Working in a small town's retirement facility is Maeve. On her first day of work, one of the patients dies in a mysterious suicide. Called in to the scene is the hunky town sheriff, Paul. When it's obvious to both Maeve and Paul that it's more than just a suicide, they work together to try and solve the mystery.
I loved this book! I loved the developing relationship between Maeve, who struggles with her magic and abilities, and Paul, who is stubborn, determined and sexy :) Their chemistry flew off the pages making their quest to solve the murder all the more exciting! I loved the suspense. And I loved the author's use of witches and their magic.
I also love that Lara Nance has the amazing ability to make her readers feel like they're part of the story. Her vivid descriptions make you feel as though you're living your life right along side the characters, experiencing the story, not just reading it.
Reviewed by Marie for Cocktails and Books.
I loved this book! I loved the developing relationship between Maeve, who struggles with her magic and abilities, and Paul, who is stubborn, determined and sexy :) Their chemistry flew off the pages making their quest to solve the murder all the more exciting! I loved the suspense. And I loved the author's use of witches and their magic.
I also love that Lara Nance has the amazing ability to make her readers feel like they're part of the story. Her vivid descriptions make you feel as though you're living your life right along side the characters, experiencing the story, not just reading it.
Reviewed by Marie for Cocktails and Books.
September 12, 2014
Witches, evil spirits, romance...what’s not to love about this book! I was amazed at the way the author weaved the stories of tormented young women living in the insane asylum without making it seem like a dry history lesson. You could feel their sadness, fear, and despair. There was no confusion between the past and present stories which made the book flow smoothly.
SPOILER ALERT below...
I had a couple of small criticisms - one being Paul’s too quick acceptance of Maeve being a witch with the help of a cat, and the other being the evil spirit who, after decades, discovered he could enter a human’s body. That seemed much too convenient for me.
However, they were small and of course, my own opinion. It is a great story and hope there are future plans for Paul and Maeve. And of course, the Gems!
SPOILER ALERT below...
I had a couple of small criticisms - one being Paul’s too quick acceptance of Maeve being a witch with the help of a cat, and the other being the evil spirit who, after decades, discovered he could enter a human’s body. That seemed much too convenient for me.
However, they were small and of course, my own opinion. It is a great story and hope there are future plans for Paul and Maeve. And of course, the Gems!
September 21, 2014
I loved the story ... there are a few very colorful characters. Unfortunately, there are a lot of incomplete sentences, missing proper nouns, and over and over again I kept thinking of the television show "Charmed." (The power of three older but beautiful Celtic witches.) The incomplete sentences interupt the flow of the story.
The story itself is about a witch (who comes from a long line of witches) who has moved to a small town after binding her powers. She works as a nurse practicioner in an insane asylim trying to forget her past. Add mystery, an opening of suicide (or is it murder) and an ex Green Beret sheriff, a little small town romance ... ghosts and dementia ... you have a page turner that is hard to put down despite the missing proper nouns. I would give the book a 4.5 or 5 rating if properly edited.
The story itself is about a witch (who comes from a long line of witches) who has moved to a small town after binding her powers. She works as a nurse practicioner in an insane asylim trying to forget her past. Add mystery, an opening of suicide (or is it murder) and an ex Green Beret sheriff, a little small town romance ... ghosts and dementia ... you have a page turner that is hard to put down despite the missing proper nouns. I would give the book a 4.5 or 5 rating if properly edited.
April 28, 2011
This book was very entertaining right from the start! Fast paced. plot was "edge of your seat". Story line made it incredibly hard to put down. The characters rocked this book. They were very believable, relatable, and all around awesome. Overall the originality was breathtaking. The ending will undoubtedly leave you wanting more. The only problem I found with this book was that it ended, but that couldn't knock a star from this book. I highly recommend this book if you like suspense, mystery, with your paranormal romance.
Lara Nance - Book Giveaway, Book Review, Author Interview, Author Guest Post At Were Vamps Romance:
http://werevampsromance.blogspot.com/...
Lara Nance - Book Giveaway, Book Review, Author Interview, Author Guest Post At Were Vamps Romance:
http://werevampsromance.blogspot.com/...
March 12, 2012
My thoughts:
Lara Nance has built a wonderfully described, realistic world as the setting for her story. It was as if Rolling Gap and it's residents could be just down the road. The characters are well developed and easy to invest in. The "Gems" are fantastic. Maeve is a strong main character, I was impressed with her from the start. Paul is great. My heart went out to both of them as they struggle with their personal demons. The story is intriguing and fast paced; twisting and suspenseful.
I love a good thriller and this did not disappoint! I look forward to more from Lara Nance!
Lara Nance has built a wonderfully described, realistic world as the setting for her story. It was as if Rolling Gap and it's residents could be just down the road. The characters are well developed and easy to invest in. The "Gems" are fantastic. Maeve is a strong main character, I was impressed with her from the start. Paul is great. My heart went out to both of them as they struggle with their personal demons. The story is intriguing and fast paced; twisting and suspenseful.
I love a good thriller and this did not disappoint! I look forward to more from Lara Nance!
January 24, 2015
Memories of Murder was very different. The main character, Maeve, comes from a long line of Scottish witches. I liked the way the story evoked all of the old Scottish Druid magic yet it was set in modern times in the U.S. Maeve has bound her powers because she was forced to use them in a way she felt they should never be used. She moves to a small town to help her get away and heal from her traumatic ordeal, just to be thrown into the middle of a very strange supernatural murder case. With her fellow which aunts, who are a riot by themselves, she and the sheriff must solve the case and bring a killer to justice. Will they succeed? It's was a fun ride finding out.
June 9, 2014
Maeve is a nurse witnessing a death on her first day at a new job. I have read two books by Lara Nance prior to this one, and I have to say that she is a really good writer. This story immediately drew my attention. From the first couple of pages, I was drawn to Maeve, I wanted to know more about her and the strange circumstances surrounding her. This is a fast paced story. This story hit a little close to home for me because my own mother has dementia. The mystery surrounding the graveyard and asylum becomes increasingly creepy and scary. Maeve is determined to uncover the truth. 4 stars.
July 30, 2013
4.5 / 5
The excerpt above was the opening of the book and needless to say it got my attention from the get go. This story is filled mystery, romance, murder and magic, it will keep you turning the pages until the last one. The characters are well written and heartfelt throughout the story. Memories of Murder is volume 1 in the GEM paranormal mysteries and I can't wait to see what Lara Nance brings to the readers with the next one. Great read!
The excerpt above was the opening of the book and needless to say it got my attention from the get go. This story is filled mystery, romance, murder and magic, it will keep you turning the pages until the last one. The characters are well written and heartfelt throughout the story. Memories of Murder is volume 1 in the GEM paranormal mysteries and I can't wait to see what Lara Nance brings to the readers with the next one. Great read!
December 13, 2013
My review is probably biased by the fact that I'm not normally a fan of low fantasy (fantasy stories in a "normal" setting), but I had trouble really getting into this book. It was decently written, but I couldn't seem to connect with the characters. They were all very distant emotionally. The main character, Maeve, was recovering from a trauma which should have made her a sympathetic character, but no depth was given to her pain or healing. It was simply given as another fact.
January 31, 2014
I love a good mystery, and when you add in ghosts and vengeful spirits with witches, it only gets better. Maeve is a witch, but after a horrifying event in her past, she is running from her heritage. The sleepy little town she escapes to is hiding a viscous secret, and it takes Maeve, her mother and aunts to fight against the evil terrorizing the town. The characters were very well written, and the plot kept me on my toes. I would recommend this author to others.
November 29, 2016
On her first day at a new job, Maeve sees a man plunge to his death. Sure, she could've saved him with her "witchy" powers, if she still had them. But ever since her attack, she's been without the powers but not quite powerless. Intrigue.
Could the patient's death have been murder?
This a compelling mystery surrounding a lost asylum graveyard and an angry spirit. A scintillating brew of murder, mayhem, history, and wiccan folklore. Wickedly good!
Could the patient's death have been murder?
This a compelling mystery surrounding a lost asylum graveyard and an angry spirit. A scintillating brew of murder, mayhem, history, and wiccan folklore. Wickedly good!
March 5, 2013
Maeve moves to a new, smaller town, leaving bad memories behind and part of her life, but what she finds is a mystery that needs her help.
Teaming up with the Sheriff Paul, they try to solve the puzzle of the old asylum and the forgotten graveyard.
Hauntings, witches and romance in a quick read.
Teaming up with the Sheriff Paul, they try to solve the puzzle of the old asylum and the forgotten graveyard.
Hauntings, witches and romance in a quick read.
May 18, 2011
A beautifully written story that hooks you from the start and doesn't let go until The End. If you like paranormal romantic suspense, you HAVE to read this one!
February 12, 2012
{3.5 Stars}
Full Review: http://simpleloveofreading.blogspot.c...
Full Review: http://simpleloveofreading.blogspot.c...
June 28, 2012
Murder mystery revolving around ill will committed at a nursing home. Who'd ever think that anything criminal could go on in such a place.
July 24, 2013
Enjoyable characters, but not the best narrator.
July 27, 2013
A page turner. Couldn't put it down.
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