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Dark Hearts #3
Nemesis
Charlie thought she knew what a broken heart felt like when her mother was found murdered. But then her father disappears, and her pain is beyond anything she could have imagined. With no one to turn to, Charlie finds solace at her grandmother's home for. But her peace is short-lived when she discovers her father's wife is implicated in the deaths of two local women. Who exactly is her stepmother and what does she know about her mother's murder? Charlie is determined to uncover the truth and get justice for her mother, whatever the cost. With book club questions at the back of the book.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2023
76 people are currently reading
167 people want to read
About the author
Maria Frankland
112 books567 followersMaria Frankland has a dubious internet search history and a very worried mother-in-law. However, neither of these things can stop her writing gripping psychological thrillers in which you’ll never find a happy-ever-after.
Her novels are mostly set in Yorkshire where you’ll hear the accent through all her characters. These are people you could live next door to, or closer still… don’t say you haven’t been warned.
Maria’s novels are fast-paced, down to earth and realistic. You never know what’s around the corner…
Find out more about Maria at https://www.mariafrankland.co.uk. Whilst you’re there, you can download your free novella – The Brother-in-Law.
Her novels are mostly set in Yorkshire where you’ll hear the accent through all her characters. These are people you could live next door to, or closer still… don’t say you haven’t been warned.
Maria’s novels are fast-paced, down to earth and realistic. You never know what’s around the corner…
Find out more about Maria at https://www.mariafrankland.co.uk. Whilst you’re there, you can download your free novella – The Brother-in-Law.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
June 16, 2025
Nemesis by Maria Frankland
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
The third book in the Dark Hearts series doesn’t disappoint! The thrills continue with this fantastic story! The book is a fast paced, super exciting and suspenseful psychological thriller.
Charlie is crushed when her mother is found murdered and her father seems to have disappeared. Charlie is determined to figure out what has happened to her parents.
The story bounces between Charlie and her search for the truth and her mean step mother Liz. Liz has been accused of killing 2 people and Charlie can’t help but wonder if she had something to do with her mother’s death too.
All 3 books in this series were easily all 5 🌟’s for me. I really enjoyed the characters and the all of the twists and thrills that this trilogy holds.
1) Frenemy
2) The Fall Out
3) Nemesis
I listened to an audio version and the narrator is fantastic!!
*I highly recommend this series!!*
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
The third book in the Dark Hearts series doesn’t disappoint! The thrills continue with this fantastic story! The book is a fast paced, super exciting and suspenseful psychological thriller.
Charlie is crushed when her mother is found murdered and her father seems to have disappeared. Charlie is determined to figure out what has happened to her parents.
The story bounces between Charlie and her search for the truth and her mean step mother Liz. Liz has been accused of killing 2 people and Charlie can’t help but wonder if she had something to do with her mother’s death too.
All 3 books in this series were easily all 5 🌟’s for me. I really enjoyed the characters and the all of the twists and thrills that this trilogy holds.
1) Frenemy
2) The Fall Out
3) Nemesis
I listened to an audio version and the narrator is fantastic!!
*I highly recommend this series!!*
September 3, 2023
I reviewing all three of the books in this trilogy. You must read them in order! In the first book, Frenemy, it is full of action and emotion. There is a huge reveal that is so depressing, but it boosts the series along. I enjoyed all of these books. I read all of them back to back, and I can’t believe how quickly I read them! There is certainly evil throughout as well as tragedies. You will be glued to the pages! Wow, I can finally breath again! I really like this author and this trilogy is a win!
July 15, 2023
What a beginning! Talk about getting your heart racing early! I couldn't wait for book 3 to come out and Maria did not disappoint. Following Charlie and her wicked step-mother, Liz, since book 1, I feel Maria did a wonderful job completing this series! I loved Charlie's character. The inner strength she had for just being a teenager. She went through a lot in her young life, and seemed to handle it well (as well as a kid could). Such a well written book and it was a fast read for me. I just could not put this book down! Great job Maria!
December 27, 2025
Loved this book! Amazing series, fast paced short chapters.
Some interesting characters in this book.
Listened on audio, personally felt the narrator was terrible! wish I had read the actual book rather than audio.
Some interesting characters in this book.
Listened on audio, personally felt the narrator was terrible! wish I had read the actual book rather than audio.
January 6, 2024
I struggled to finish this one. Entire chapters of flash backs weren’t needed as we lived through it in books one and two. Such a wild and near impossible storyline, it made it unlikable.
July 4, 2023
This is the third book in the series, preceded by Frenemy and The Fall Out. Despite having read both prequels, I needed reminding of who was who and what had happened, and 70 % of Nemesis does just that - gives backstory! It can not be read as a standalone. I also wouldn't describe this as a page-turner nor a thriller, as so many other books by this author are.
I found parts implausible and far-fetched and felt disappointed overall. But I will read this author's standalone books again. 2 and a half stars, rounded up to three.
I found parts implausible and far-fetched and felt disappointed overall. But I will read this author's standalone books again. 2 and a half stars, rounded up to three.
August 2, 2023
This is the third book in the series, and I definitely don't think you can read this as a standalone. The backstory of all the characters is continued, and although I had read all of the books, it still took me a while to remember some of the minor characters.
I also understand the plot devices used, but I did struggle with getting past security, no spoilers.
All in all, a good ending to the series.
I was given an advance copy by the author, but the review is entirely my own.
I also understand the plot devices used, but I did struggle with getting past security, no spoilers.
All in all, a good ending to the series.
I was given an advance copy by the author, but the review is entirely my own.
August 1, 2023
This is the final book in the Dark Hearts series and I have not yet read the first two books. It didn’t affect my enjoyment of the book at all. Despite the darkness of the story line there were lighter moments, some even comedic.
This book opens with a bang. Who is the mysterious woman who falls or is pushed from a great height, landing in the hotel lobby. Accidental death, murder or suicide?
The story is told mainly by Charlie. Life before her mother died and life after. You have to empathise with this teenager who is still trying to come to terms with the murder of her mother, not helped by the fact her evil stepmother, Liz, has moved into Charlie’s mother’s house, changed the locks and is refusing to leave. All Charlie really wants is to find her father. Although always an absentee father, he has never left her alone for so long before. In a shocking twist Liz goes on the run. She is about to be arrested for the murder of two local women. Liz, also gets to tell the story from her view point. You get a thrilling insight into the mind of a killer on the run . Maria Frankland gets into the mind of teenage angst and evil killer scarily well. Hearing the story from Charlie of what her life was like before her mother died and just after is a brilliant way of making this book a stand alone because you get to know the main protagonist. The third commentator is Donna. You know you should dislike Donna but there is something about her that is very likeable and she certainly lightens the atmosphere.
So, will Liz get away with murder and sail off into the sunset with her lover or will she get her comeuppance? A brilliantly twisty ending.
This book opens with a bang. Who is the mysterious woman who falls or is pushed from a great height, landing in the hotel lobby. Accidental death, murder or suicide?
The story is told mainly by Charlie. Life before her mother died and life after. You have to empathise with this teenager who is still trying to come to terms with the murder of her mother, not helped by the fact her evil stepmother, Liz, has moved into Charlie’s mother’s house, changed the locks and is refusing to leave. All Charlie really wants is to find her father. Although always an absentee father, he has never left her alone for so long before. In a shocking twist Liz goes on the run. She is about to be arrested for the murder of two local women. Liz, also gets to tell the story from her view point. You get a thrilling insight into the mind of a killer on the run . Maria Frankland gets into the mind of teenage angst and evil killer scarily well. Hearing the story from Charlie of what her life was like before her mother died and just after is a brilliant way of making this book a stand alone because you get to know the main protagonist. The third commentator is Donna. You know you should dislike Donna but there is something about her that is very likeable and she certainly lightens the atmosphere.
So, will Liz get away with murder and sail off into the sunset with her lover or will she get her comeuppance? A brilliantly twisty ending.
July 3, 2025
In Nemesis, the final installment of The Dark Heart series or which I like to refer to as the Frenemy series, Charlie is beside herself with all of her pain and heartache and goes on a truth-searching mission. I loved this entire series and am happy it had a satisfying ending for me. I would happily go on any storytelling journey written by Maria Frankland because she’s an amazing storyteller! She writes an entertaining style of domestic/psychological fiction and creates memorable characters (some you worry for and those that are so rotten to the core). This series was full of shocking surprises, twists, and just when you think you know what’s happened, you really don’t. These characters were so well-developed, and multi-dimensional, it’s hard not to forget them once the series ends. I highly recommend all three books– Frenemy, The Fall Out and Nemesis!
Jenna Myers did a remarkable job narrating. Her different voices were consistent while using distinct tones and accents. Her emotional range was entertaining, and her overall performance enhanced the enjoyment I experienced of the 3 audiobooks in this series.
Jenna Myers did a remarkable job narrating. Her different voices were consistent while using distinct tones and accents. Her emotional range was entertaining, and her overall performance enhanced the enjoyment I experienced of the 3 audiobooks in this series.
January 14, 2026
The final book in The Dark Heart series, Nemesis, delivers an emotionally charged conclusion as Charlie, shattered by loss and betrayal, sets out to uncover long-buried truths. This trilogy was an unforgettable ride from start to finish, and the ending left me completely satisfied. Maria Frankland has a remarkable gift for weaving intense domestic and psychological drama, creating characters who feel so real you can’t help but become invested in their fates—whether you’re rooting for them or recoiling from them. The story is layered with stunning twists and revelations that constantly turn your assumptions upside down. Each character is deeply developed and complex, making it nearly impossible to let go once the final chapter closes. I wholeheartedly recommend all three books: Frenemy, The Fall Out, and Nemesis.
March 24, 2024
What an incredibly exciting suspenseful thriller and ending to the Dark Hearts series Nemesis is. It certainly is an awesomely addictive psychological thriller with so many twists and turns that come totally unexpectedly. What poor Charlie has been put through goes beyond belief. This is edge of your seat stuff, suspense at its best. Maria Frankland is truly a brilliant author, writing incredibly gripping thrillers with such fantastic characters you can believe in. I strongly recommend if you haven't read any of Maria's book, you should definitely check her out. Once you read one, you feel the need to read them all. If I could give more than 5 stars, I would. I'm hooked on reading her books.
August 11, 2023
excellent trilogy!
This is the third book in the trilogy. Overall, this has been one of the better trilogys that I have read. From the first book, to the last page of this book, the suspense level is high! You are addicted, pulled into the story, and your curiosity will keep you hanging on. Charlie has a lot to deal with in this book. By the time everything is said and done, her life will change in ways she never thought would be possible. you will be amazed at how everyone justifies their actions. Most of all, you will be thoroughly entertained! You will be talking about this trilogy long after you are finished with it. That is a good thing!
This is the third book in the trilogy. Overall, this has been one of the better trilogys that I have read. From the first book, to the last page of this book, the suspense level is high! You are addicted, pulled into the story, and your curiosity will keep you hanging on. Charlie has a lot to deal with in this book. By the time everything is said and done, her life will change in ways she never thought would be possible. you will be amazed at how everyone justifies their actions. Most of all, you will be thoroughly entertained! You will be talking about this trilogy long after you are finished with it. That is a good thing!
July 9, 2023
Part 3 of a Thrillogy, Nemesis doesn't disappoint. Charlie is the main focus of the story. Her mother has been killed, her dad is nowhere to be found and her mother's best friend Donna is in prison for her mother's murder. Liz (Charlie's stepmother) refuses to let her back into her childhood home which Charlie actually owns. Circumstances cause Liz to go on the run and Charlie (with help from Donna (whose conviction has been overturned) and Stephen (Liz's boyfriend) track her down and chaos ensues. It's a nail-biting conclusion but a satisfying end to a wonderful three-part Thrillogy.
August 1, 2023
Nemesis is the final book in The Dark Hearts series. Charlie is trying to deal with her mother’s death and her father’s new wife, Liz. Charlie’s father seems to have to time for his daughter and her stepmother wants nothing to do with her. Liz is a truly evil person. This book was extremely well written and completed the series perfectly. I highly recommend this book. Read the series in order. Frenemy, The Fall Out and then Nemesis.
I would like to thank Maria Frankland for an arc of this book. I love her writing and will definitely be reading more of her books.
I would like to thank Maria Frankland for an arc of this book. I love her writing and will definitely be reading more of her books.
July 3, 2023
I was kindly given an advanced reader copy of this book from the author 😊
Nemesis is the 3rd book of the dark heart series and it does not disappoint!
This story carries on from the previous book the fall out and this time the focus is on Lou's daughter Charlie.
What follows is a twisty, fast paced plot that will definitely make you want to keep reading til the very last page.
I won't spoil it but this is a must read for anyone who loves Maria's books as much as I do 😊
Nemesis is the 3rd book of the dark heart series and it does not disappoint!
This story carries on from the previous book the fall out and this time the focus is on Lou's daughter Charlie.
What follows is a twisty, fast paced plot that will definitely make you want to keep reading til the very last page.
I won't spoil it but this is a must read for anyone who loves Maria's books as much as I do 😊
August 25, 2023
NEMESIS: Book Three, Dark Hearts Series
The final book in this dark Trilogy and again @mariaFrankland manages to keep you on the edge of your seat.
A fantastic utterly compelling series that you are unable to put down, with this final instalment bringing everything together.
Again my heart was racing from the start.
And even though I’d worked out the twist in this novel it was not disappointing.
Fantastic and suspenseful another five star rating for this gripping story from me.
The final book in this dark Trilogy and again @mariaFrankland manages to keep you on the edge of your seat.
A fantastic utterly compelling series that you are unable to put down, with this final instalment bringing everything together.
Again my heart was racing from the start.
And even though I’d worked out the twist in this novel it was not disappointing.
Fantastic and suspenseful another five star rating for this gripping story from me.
January 4, 2024
Nemesis by Maria Frankland, narrated by Jenny Myers. (The Dark Hearts Series Book 3). I couldn't make up my mind whether I did or didn't like the narrators voices. But it didn't stop me listening. She did a good job. Charlie has lost her mum, her dad has vanished. Liz her stepmother is not letting her into her house. There is deceit, betrayal and unspeakable secrets. A great story unravelling as it goes. 4* Audible.
December 20, 2024
WOW what a finale to The Dark Hearts trilogy book 3 (Nemisis) by Maria Frankland.
Poor Charlie suffers from the Nemisis of her wicked stepmother Liz when her Father Darren remarried after her Mother died and life is about to get tougher when Stephen, Donna and Charlie board a flight to Lanzarote to find Liz.
I loved the exciting chase, anticipatation, excitement, intrigue that this finale contained.
Poor Charlie suffers from the Nemisis of her wicked stepmother Liz when her Father Darren remarried after her Mother died and life is about to get tougher when Stephen, Donna and Charlie board a flight to Lanzarote to find Liz.
I loved the exciting chase, anticipatation, excitement, intrigue that this finale contained.
June 13, 2025
I really enjoyed all three books in The Dark Hearts series, so much, that I was sad to reach the end of the trilogy! So many times, I wish the series could continue on, but I know that isn't always possible! So far, every book I've read, written by Maria Frankland, has been above my expectations!! I am going to continue on until I've read all of her books now, because I truly enjoy her writing and all of the twists and turns in them! Very Enjoyable!!!
August 7, 2023
fantastic … gripping … sequel
Throughly enjoyed book 3 … gripping from beginning to end.
Maria frankland thankyou for bringing us such amazing stories with lots of twists and turns.
I didn’t want the book to end. I even read it very slowly , but it had to come to an end :-(
Absolutely loved it xx
Throughly enjoyed book 3 … gripping from beginning to end.
Maria frankland thankyou for bringing us such amazing stories with lots of twists and turns.
I didn’t want the book to end. I even read it very slowly , but it had to come to an end :-(
Absolutely loved it xx
November 19, 2023
Loved the narration of Jenny Myers
How much pain one person go through . Charlie knew heart ache when her mother was found murdered. Then her father disappears.
Charlie goes to her grandmother’s home for peace. But while there she finds out her father’s wife is implicated in the deaths of two local women.
Great suspense and trills.
How much pain one person go through . Charlie knew heart ache when her mother was found murdered. Then her father disappears.
Charlie goes to her grandmother’s home for peace. But while there she finds out her father’s wife is implicated in the deaths of two local women.
Great suspense and trills.
November 21, 2023
Review
Fast paced and brilliant. I flew through this book in 24 hours. I was desperate to know how it all ended. This book was the perfect ending to the trilogy.
Maria's writing is so easy and addictive, I get lost in the pages of her books so easily.
Nemesis is full of action and drama which saw Charlie come into her own.
Simply brilliant ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Fast paced and brilliant. I flew through this book in 24 hours. I was desperate to know how it all ended. This book was the perfect ending to the trilogy.
Maria's writing is so easy and addictive, I get lost in the pages of her books so easily.
Nemesis is full of action and drama which saw Charlie come into her own.
Simply brilliant ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 7, 2025
Oh my gosh. What a fantastic series. I love all of Maria Frankland‘s books, but this one was phenomenal. I read the series in about two weeks. As a matter of fact, I woke up at 2:00 AM and had to read more and find out what was going to happen next The end of this book; buckle up!!!!!!! Fabulous series!!!!!
October 2, 2023
Good!
I flew through the first two books and this one took me a little bit more because it does repeat a lot but there's new twists you definitely don't see & it's worth a read! Glad I read the series I definitely enjoyed the characters
I flew through the first two books and this one took me a little bit more because it does repeat a lot but there's new twists you definitely don't see & it's worth a read! Glad I read the series I definitely enjoyed the characters
March 17, 2024
It all comes to a close in this 3rd book which still had me gripped. I’ve enjoyed this whole series. What a fantastic read following the evil of one person. If you love a good crime series this is definitely for you.
September 9, 2024
Nemesis
After reading all three books in this series I must say I have enjoyed them and they have had me gripped from start to finish through all the twists and turns of the plot. Thoroughly recommend this series.
After reading all three books in this series I must say I have enjoyed them and they have had me gripped from start to finish through all the twists and turns of the plot. Thoroughly recommend this series.
October 10, 2024
Thoroughly brilliant way to finish off the trilogy. I was actually pleased to see Donna back after the previous book. I found it gripping from the start and I kind of guessed one of the twists but not the very last one. I highly recommend all three books in the series.
March 12, 2025
I read this 3-book series in 3 days! Maria Frankland is truly a brilliant author. As always, there were quite a few characters I really hated, and some I wanted to shake some sense into quite frequently. The plots and twists were all excellent! I look forward to reading more by this author.
July 6, 2023
Thanks so much to Maria for this ARC Set to publish
8/1/23
8/1/23
August 11, 2023
Fantastic trilogy
So pleased the 3rd book was released on my birthday!! What a treat!! I won’t spoil the plot for anyone but you have to read this trilogy ❤️
So pleased the 3rd book was released on my birthday!! What a treat!! I won’t spoil the plot for anyone but you have to read this trilogy ❤️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews