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She Can... #3
She Can Scream
Winner of the 2014 Golden Leaf Award
In one moment, high school teacher and single mother Brooke Davenport interrupts a vicious assault, saves a young woman’s life, and attracts the attention of a serial killer.
Sixteen years ago, Brooke lost her roommate to a brutal murder. Now she teaches women’s self-defense, still trying to heal from the guilt and grief that plague her. Convinced the predator knows his victims and is stalking his prey online, she is determined to find him before he strikes again. Her brother’s friend, Luke has the computer expertise to help. But Brooke’s unexpected desire for Luke complicates her investigation, and her fixation with the case provokes a deadly reaction from the killer.
Injured in terrorist bombing overseas, computer expert Luke Holloway is still haunted by flashbacks of his young assistant’s death in the explosion. But Luke can’t refuse the request of a deployed friend to look after his sister, Brooke. Taking on responsibility for Brooke’s safety threatens Luke’s tenuous recovery, especially after he develops feelings for her that transcend a promise to a friend. When Brooke saves a young girl from a brutal assault and becomes a killer’s obsession, Luke vows to protect her at all costs.
In one moment, high school teacher and single mother Brooke Davenport interrupts a vicious assault, saves a young woman’s life, and attracts the attention of a serial killer.
Sixteen years ago, Brooke lost her roommate to a brutal murder. Now she teaches women’s self-defense, still trying to heal from the guilt and grief that plague her. Convinced the predator knows his victims and is stalking his prey online, she is determined to find him before he strikes again. Her brother’s friend, Luke has the computer expertise to help. But Brooke’s unexpected desire for Luke complicates her investigation, and her fixation with the case provokes a deadly reaction from the killer.
Injured in terrorist bombing overseas, computer expert Luke Holloway is still haunted by flashbacks of his young assistant’s death in the explosion. But Luke can’t refuse the request of a deployed friend to look after his sister, Brooke. Taking on responsibility for Brooke’s safety threatens Luke’s tenuous recovery, especially after he develops feelings for her that transcend a promise to a friend. When Brooke saves a young girl from a brutal assault and becomes a killer’s obsession, Luke vows to protect her at all costs.
359 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 17, 2013
5347 people are currently reading
2710 people want to read
About the author
Melinda Leigh
50 books21.9k followers#1 Wall Street Journal and #1 Amazon bestselling author Melinda Leigh is a fully recovered banker who learned that writing books is way more fun than analyzing financial statements. Melinda’s debut novel, SHE CAN RUN, was nominated for Best First Novel by the International Thriller Writers. Since then, she has garnered numerous writing accolades, including two RITA® Award nominations and an induction into the NJ Romance Writers Hall of Fame. Her novels have sold more than 15 million copies across the world. Melinda loves martial arts, rescue dogs, and sea turtles.
WEBSITE: https://www.melindaleigh.com/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/melindaleighauthorpage/
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/MelindaLeigh1
WEBSITE: https://www.melindaleigh.com/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/melindaleighauthorpage/
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/MelindaLeigh1
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 432 reviews
February 9, 2017
This was much better than the previous two as had the elements of a good suspense.
As a norm I am pretty good at guessing the bad guy but this one had me fooled....I kept pointing the finger and mentally shouting that everyone was idiots as it was obvious who it was, but turns out the egg was on my face as it was someone different, someone that I wouldn't have guessed in a million years!!
Well done Ms Leigh....I take my hat off to you!
As a norm I am pretty good at guessing the bad guy but this one had me fooled....I kept pointing the finger and mentally shouting that everyone was idiots as it was obvious who it was, but turns out the egg was on my face as it was someone different, someone that I wouldn't have guessed in a million years!!
Well done Ms Leigh....I take my hat off to you!
December 22, 2025
Martyrs. Sooo not my favorite heroine, but when you have a martyr hero too, well, that is just two too much. I will have to say that this was a great Romantic Suspense and I bet no one ever guessed the baddie. They were extremely well hidden and camouflaged by several red herrings. Melinda Leigh is a master at crafting an excellent plot.
Haunted by the death of her roommate sixteen years ago, Brooke Davenport has devoted her spare time to teaching young women how to defend themselves. Leaving class one night she hears a scream and interrupts an attack. She has unknowingly drawn the attention of a serial killer.
Three months ago, Luke Holoway was in a terrorist bombing that took the life of his assistant. Luke can't forgive himself that she died and he survived. He is ready to return to work when his best friend, Wade, tell him about the attack Brooke interrupted and asked him to protect her. As Wade is deploying overseas, Luke feels he can't possibly refuse even if this responsibility is not what he needs at this time.
Brooke can't just let the police handle to investigation and begins one of her own with Luke's help. When one of her students is murdered, Brooke knows the murderer is coming after her. As the attacker eludes police, Brooke and Luke sift through the online presence of both the girl Brooke rescued and the girl who was murdered looking for a connection that could lead to the murderer, before the killer comes for Brooke.
Haunted by the death of her roommate sixteen years ago, Brooke Davenport has devoted her spare time to teaching young women how to defend themselves. Leaving class one night she hears a scream and interrupts an attack. She has unknowingly drawn the attention of a serial killer.
Three months ago, Luke Holoway was in a terrorist bombing that took the life of his assistant. Luke can't forgive himself that she died and he survived. He is ready to return to work when his best friend, Wade, tell him about the attack Brooke interrupted and asked him to protect her. As Wade is deploying overseas, Luke feels he can't possibly refuse even if this responsibility is not what he needs at this time.
Brooke can't just let the police handle to investigation and begins one of her own with Luke's help. When one of her students is murdered, Brooke knows the murderer is coming after her. As the attacker eludes police, Brooke and Luke sift through the online presence of both the girl Brooke rescued and the girl who was murdered looking for a connection that could lead to the murderer, before the killer comes for Brooke.
July 17, 2017
Although I did enjoy reading this one, there where moments when I questioned the characters and sometimes things just seemed a little too much. I did like Brooke and Luke as a couple and you really wanted them to get together.
My notes included:
I'm a little annoyed with Brooke's I can be a cop better and faster than the cops. Civilians playing detective with an attitude can seem stupid as well as conceited. It also tends to lead to some TSTL moments.
The hacking extraordinaire Luke was not believable. Plus he is also able to arrive before the cops. How convenient.
My notes included:
I'm a little annoyed with Brooke's I can be a cop better and faster than the cops. Civilians playing detective with an attitude can seem stupid as well as conceited. It also tends to lead to some TSTL moments.
The hacking extraordinaire Luke was not believable. Plus he is also able to arrive before the cops. How convenient.
July 18, 2018
♥♥ This is the best one in this series thus far :D ♥♥
March 16, 2019
I'm sorry, Melinda Leigh, but I didn't like this one. The insta-lust made it hard for me to connect with either MC. An h who assumed blame for something that wasn't her fault is also something that really annoys me. Add to all that the push and pull from the H and I just couldn't enjoy this story.
It was told in Ms. Leigh's signature easy to read style. I like the multiple povs and the utter lack of OP drama. However, the mystery was weak in this one. There was absolutely no indication that the baddie turned out to be that character. There were no hints as to his identity, and that made the reveal confusing and ultimately boring.
This series is turning out to be my least favourite of Melinda Leigh's. Unfortunately, I feel compelled to finish it out since there are only two works left. Hopefully they'll be better than the previous ones.
It was told in Ms. Leigh's signature easy to read style. I like the multiple povs and the utter lack of OP drama. However, the mystery was weak in this one. There was absolutely no indication that the baddie turned out to be that character. There were no hints as to his identity, and that made the reveal confusing and ultimately boring.
This series is turning out to be my least favourite of Melinda Leigh's. Unfortunately, I feel compelled to finish it out since there are only two works left. Hopefully they'll be better than the previous ones.
November 2, 2022
Interesting read and good reveal of the killer. Didn’t see that coming. This book definitely makes you think about your online presence. Lots of action, fast paced and a bit of romance. I will be continuing this series.
September 16, 2013
She Can Scream is the 3rd instalment in the She Can... series and can be read as a stand alone novel.
Guilt, especially Survivor's guilt can truly eat at a person until they are a shell of their former self. Brooke has been living with her guilt for over sixteen years, ever since her college roommate was found murdered. It has had a huge impact on every aspect of her life from her relationships to her decision making. Brooke teaches self defence to women in a bid to save someone else from suffering the same fate as her friend, following one of her classes she hears a scream which leads her to interrupt a vicious assault. Brooke is plagued with thoughts of the victim and memories of her friends murder, neither let her walk away from the case, even when she fears her own life may be in danger.
Brooke's brother Wade has to leave but he needs to know his sister is protected, asking his friend Luke to step in and keep an eye on her seems like the perfect solution. Luke is in town visiting his Grandmother, which is just an excuse to escape his own life, where he is still recovering from being a victim of a terrorist attack during which he lost a friend/assistant, while he was working overseas. Luke see's this as a second chance and he is determined not to fail Brooke, he has to keep her alive no matter the cost.
Brooke and Luke's relationship has the makings of a disaster movie but somehow Melinda truly makes their relationship work. They grow and learn from each other and I truly believe they could help each other heal, given enough time. The story itself had all the twists, turns and misdirection's that I have came to expect from Melinda. I did figure out the identity of the attacker, however Melinda did surprise me a little with certain turns. Can't wait for She Can Hide!
Guilt, especially Survivor's guilt can truly eat at a person until they are a shell of their former self. Brooke has been living with her guilt for over sixteen years, ever since her college roommate was found murdered. It has had a huge impact on every aspect of her life from her relationships to her decision making. Brooke teaches self defence to women in a bid to save someone else from suffering the same fate as her friend, following one of her classes she hears a scream which leads her to interrupt a vicious assault. Brooke is plagued with thoughts of the victim and memories of her friends murder, neither let her walk away from the case, even when she fears her own life may be in danger.
Brooke's brother Wade has to leave but he needs to know his sister is protected, asking his friend Luke to step in and keep an eye on her seems like the perfect solution. Luke is in town visiting his Grandmother, which is just an excuse to escape his own life, where he is still recovering from being a victim of a terrorist attack during which he lost a friend/assistant, while he was working overseas. Luke see's this as a second chance and he is determined not to fail Brooke, he has to keep her alive no matter the cost.
Brooke and Luke's relationship has the makings of a disaster movie but somehow Melinda truly makes their relationship work. They grow and learn from each other and I truly believe they could help each other heal, given enough time. The story itself had all the twists, turns and misdirection's that I have came to expect from Melinda. I did figure out the identity of the attacker, however Melinda did surprise me a little with certain turns. Can't wait for She Can Hide!
February 4, 2017
I enjoyed this romantic suspense with lots of fast paced exciting action. I particularly liked the brave and assertive heroine except for that one time that just seemed out of character with all her training. All the characters were pretty good and the ending sure surprised me. Teacher Brooke interrupts a serial killer and her brothers friend Luke is asked to watch over her and her kids.
December 22, 2013
Really did not guess the killer in this one, a big shock when you find out who it is.
August 13, 2017
Two-haiku review:
Self-defense teacher
Saves girl being abducted
Now bad guy wants her
Didn't guess this one
Very good suspense thriller
Loved these characters
Self-defense teacher
Saves girl being abducted
Now bad guy wants her
Didn't guess this one
Very good suspense thriller
Loved these characters
March 13, 2023
This one really got to me quickly. I felt for Brooke's mission on keeping girls/women safe, especially with her past. I hated how for so long she felt like she was the cause for such a bad event in her life. Glad that later in the book she learned different.
It was crazy how this quickly spun out of control, crazier still who the bad guy was. I'm glad that Brooke and Luke were able to out them and they were punished. Better still was that through these awful events, both Brooke and Luke were able to lay some ghosts to rest for themselves.
It was crazy how this quickly spun out of control, crazier still who the bad guy was. I'm glad that Brooke and Luke were able to out them and they were punished. Better still was that through these awful events, both Brooke and Luke were able to lay some ghosts to rest for themselves.
February 12, 2024
I never do this. Once I start a book, I almost always have to finish it. Then I drive myself nuts while I'm reading -- and hating -- it and I end up mad at myself for my stupid need to finish things. Not this time! I know I'm going to hate this book. I don't know why authors have to ruin a good thriller with a dumb romance. I can't stand the guy seeing "vulnerability in her eyes." I really can't stand the man as the protector of the weak woman. And I can't stand the cartoonishly evil villain. So, I'm sorry Ms. Leigh. Fifty pages was enough to know that you are not for me.
January 21, 2015
Very Enjoyable...
I read Melinda Leigh's 1st book in this series, She Can Run, and thought it was pretty good. Somehow I missed the 2nd book but I don't think it truly mattered because this book can certainly stand-alone. Although there was a brief encounter with the main character from the first book, the story itself didn't factor into this book at all.
The storyline in this book was really good. There was a lot of suspense and excitement from start to finish. I enjoyed the characters in this book quite a bit and it was fun to see the romance build between the main characters. I wasn't very sure how I felt about Luke at first because he comes off as a bit of a sissy at the beginning. He just wasn't the macho hero that a lot of readers enjoy. After a while he grew on me but I'm not sure everyone will feel the same.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and whether or not you are following this series I would recommend this book. This isn't a series where you have to read every book in order to keep up.
I read Melinda Leigh's 1st book in this series, She Can Run, and thought it was pretty good. Somehow I missed the 2nd book but I don't think it truly mattered because this book can certainly stand-alone. Although there was a brief encounter with the main character from the first book, the story itself didn't factor into this book at all.
The storyline in this book was really good. There was a lot of suspense and excitement from start to finish. I enjoyed the characters in this book quite a bit and it was fun to see the romance build between the main characters. I wasn't very sure how I felt about Luke at first because he comes off as a bit of a sissy at the beginning. He just wasn't the macho hero that a lot of readers enjoy. After a while he grew on me but I'm not sure everyone will feel the same.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and whether or not you are following this series I would recommend this book. This isn't a series where you have to read every book in order to keep up.
November 18, 2015
This is book 3 in the series and I have to be honest here. The sex scenes are, I feel, unnecessary I don't think they bring anything to the story it is as though they have been put in to add the steamy bits that appeal to some readers.
Liked the story the characters were a bit less realistic than usual and I am getting to thinking it is all getting a bit far fetched for me. The series is based in a small town but this is the 3rd psychotic serial killer to be carrying out a killing spree I mean really? However it was a thrilling enough read. What really lost the points is that I obviously missed something he abducted Maddie put her in the back of the car and then at some point she was vanished into thin air to be replaced by Hayley and it completely threw me I was left thinking whattt ????
Liked the story the characters were a bit less realistic than usual and I am getting to thinking it is all getting a bit far fetched for me. The series is based in a small town but this is the 3rd psychotic serial killer to be carrying out a killing spree I mean really? However it was a thrilling enough read. What really lost the points is that I obviously missed something he abducted Maddie put her in the back of the car and then at some point she was vanished into thin air to be replaced by Hayley and it completely threw me I was left thinking whattt ????
August 23, 2013
Brooke's life changed forever with the murder of her best friend years before. After teaching a self defense class one night Brooke is able to help a young woman who is being attacked by a masked man. Knowing he has to leave the next day Brooke's brother Wade leaves her saftey in the hands of his best friend Luke. Luke is also suffering from the loss of a friend he couldn't save and is determined to protect Brooke from the masked man still on the loose. Will Brooke be able to outsmart a serial killer? Will Luke be able to protect her or will she become a serial killer's next victim. She Can Scream but will anyone hear her?
I would highly recommend this book!
I would highly recommend this book!
September 16, 2013
She Can Scream, is an impressive romantic suspense thriller that keeps you guessing until the end. What I liked about this book is the gradual laying of the groundwork both for the suspense aspect and the romance. Excellent writing that kept the reader at the edge of their seat, with the tension just rising until the last pages. The relationship between Brooke and Luke, also had that slow, simmering build up reflected in their heated encounters once they give in to their attraction. Perfect blend of suspense and romance.
*The ARC was provided by the publisher and NetGalley in return for an honest review*
*The ARC was provided by the publisher and NetGalley in return for an honest review*
May 5, 2019
I wanted to like this book. I read the first two and was like wow okay I kinda like this lady’s writing. Read reviews for this book, and people said it was better than the first two so I’m thinking awesome ! Uhm no. (Now I have trust issues with these readers and reviewers) I was so disappointed. I don’t know if it was the unbelievable romance or how the romance started or the inner dialogue that turned me off from the characters but it wasn’t good. The killer on the other hand surprised me. If it weren’t for the suspense I would have quit reading at 30%.
July 3, 2015
One of the best of the series.
August 8, 2015
*** slight spoiler alert ***
In Coopersfield, Pennsylvania Maddie is going out for a jog not knowing that she was being watched by a psychopath. Thanks to her social media accounts being stalked. (shudders) Her life would be his for the taking. As he grabs her, Maddie screams and tries to fight back but.. he hits her. She manages another scream. Hopefully someone will hear her.
Brooke Davenport, a teacher at Westbury High is giving a lecture to her class in the community center in Coopersfield on “safety” and “self defense” is leaving the community center when she hears a scream. She steps inside and asks George, the janitor of the community center go out and search the woods right by the center. Hearing a scream again she runs and sees the man sitting over a girl. Brooke calls 911 and then she yells at George to stay with the girl when the man takes off on foot. Brooke goes after the masked man, running as hard and fast as she can but thanks to a tree root she didn’t see she falls and the man gets away.
They take Maddie and Brooke to the hospital to be checked out. She calls home and talks to her brother, Wade. He sends his best friend, Luke to get her. (Luke had a crush on her in high school…) And Wade goes to pick up her daughter, Hayley from the school. Brooke isn’t comfortable having her kids not with him. When she gets home she recounts the events of the night. Wade isn't happy, he is being deployed tomorrow for afghanistan. He makes Luke promise to keep an eye out for her (for the next week, while he is at his nan’s house) atleast. Really he tries to hook them up. (Laughs) Luke agrees but is worried this is a bad idea. Now to see if they can find the man that attacked Maddie. Could Brooke be in danger? Would they put her name in the paper?
The next day Luke is awakened by a familiar nightmare, so he goes for a long ass jog. Literally he ran from his nan’s house to Brooke’s. That’s like a four mile run. He of course looked around and then headed back home. His nan was up so he had breakfast and she sent him back to Brooke’s to take her a casserole. When Brooke came down stairs, ready for work she had to stop and try to cut out the panic she felt when she heard someone routing around in the kitchen. She thinks Wade was running late so she was surprised to see Luke there. seems Wade gave him his key in case of an emergency. (snickers) After Brooke and the kids have breakfast (cooked by Luke) he takes them to school.
All goes well at school except Tony, a fellow teacher can’t take a hint that she is not interested in him. Men. After school Brooke unsuccessfully tries to avoid him but he’s right there ready to carry her bags. Luckily her son Chris comes to the rescue after they get to the front of the school. Brooke asks Chris where Hayley (her daughter) is and Tony’s face puckers up when he says she is in the car with Luke. His interests are peaked more than usual now so he follows them out of the school. Luke sees him and we have that male standoff that isn’t awkward at all. (snorts) Luke asserts himself over the situation and gets them all in the car and takes them home.
Home should be safe, right? Not. When Brooke hobbles out to the road to check the mail she finds a squished something in her mail box. Roadkill. (gags) Luke gets her inside and calls the cops. He had seen a black truck driving by her place earlier in the day but never expected that to be the result of it. Then Tony showed up at her house. Yes, that Tony. Big mistake. Luke makes it clear he isn't welcomed there and finally Brooke tells him there will never be anything between them and he leaves. Once the cops come in and do what they can -after telling brooke that Maddie wanted to see her- she and Luke get the kids settled in at his Nan’s and head to the hospital.
Her stalker is watching the hospital. Seems he has serious issues. More than one kind of problem. His older sister used to abuse him when he was younger. (Explains a lot...) Now as he watches Brooke walk into the hospital he wonders what they are doing. Will they talk about him? He has a present for Maddie… will she like it? Just as Brooke leaves the girls room she hears a scream. When Maddie opened her tray of food there was one of her earrings. Thanks to the news the next morning Brooke’s name and her past is out and the mystery man is out for her. Using her past and her friend’s death against her to get his own satisfaction at seeing her freak out.
After some time things get really dicey. Joe Verde, a man that used to work for Wade showed up drunk. He threw a rock through the window and was yelling outside. In order to keep Sunshine, the dog -who was outside and caught sight of the crazed man- from getting hurt by him Luke went out to talk to him. they got into a fight and Luke subdued him quickly. When the cops came he was arrested and they all tried to settle back in for the night. The kids father, her now ex husband of two years called and demanded the kids be brought to him. He wanted them away from Westbury. So, even though she wanted them close to her Brooke and Luke took the kids to Philly to their father’s place then came home. Brook went down to set the washer up with their dirty clothes… but what Brooke finds down there sets off a chain reaction of emotions in her that chill her to the bone.
A body, a woman's body is set up by the wall just as her friend Karen’s body had been all those years before. The past was coming back to her. When Luke hears her scream he runs down to her and after a little closer inspection.. finds its a mannequin. But the blood on it is real. It was set up to look like Maddie and remind her of Karen. The police come and as they investigate the scene Mike comes in to talk to Brooke. He suggests they not stay in the house tonight. Suggests a hotel or a safe place until things settle down some. Luke has other plans though. He will drive her to his place in Manhattan. No one would look for her there. Plus he knows its secure.
Sheriff O’Connell calls Brooke the next morning needing her to come in and answer some questions. She knew something was wrong. After Mike tells them about the latest body that was found they leave Manhattan and head to Westbury. When they arrive they meet with Mike and a few of his deputies. They couldn’t say who the woman was yet, the family hadn’t been notified. When a girl comes into the station to see Mike, Brook comes out of the room as she hears a scream. Looking into Mike’s office she almost collapses when she sees a student of hers in the office. Her family had lost a child all because she was in Brooke’s self defense class. With Luke’s help the police are going to compare the girl’s (the dead girl and Maddie’s) social media accounts and see what they have in common.
After they leave the police station Luke and Brooke head back to her place. As he starts his search Brooke does her own. The only noticeable thing she finds is that both girls have a picture of their school’s sports team taken by the same photographer. Owen, he is a townie and has contracts with the school Brooke works at too. This gives Brooke and idea to scope him out. And Luke, bless his heart but he goes along with her little plan. After leaving the photographers they go to the gym where they had been to spya t already. Of course they got nothing again. When they get back home Luke has to excuse himself to go and take a breath. Brooke’s recklessness is starting to get to him. While he panics in the bathroom Brooke gets a call to come outside. HE -the stalker- is watching her. If she doesn’t do what he says someone’s going to die.
Torn Brooke makes a choice to do as he says. She walks out of the house without a word. As soon as she gets to him he makes her drop her cell phone. When he thinks she is not going to listen to him he shows her who is in the back seat. She knows she has to do whatever she can to save them both. He makes her get in the trunk of his car and drives him to his home. Its there that he learns of his real identity. Shock that is the only thing that registers at first but then she wants to know why. So many reasons. He is a sick bastard after all. But what will happen next? You will have to read and find out.
This book, I have to say out of this collection I think is my favorite. The others have been frigging awesome but this one truly had me going “what the hell” and I had noooooooo clue the bad man was who he was. LOL Usually I can figure out pieces and make a good guess by them but this one stumped me and I literally listened to it almost non stop. It was that good. I can;t wait to jump into the next one.
In Coopersfield, Pennsylvania Maddie is going out for a jog not knowing that she was being watched by a psychopath. Thanks to her social media accounts being stalked. (shudders) Her life would be his for the taking. As he grabs her, Maddie screams and tries to fight back but.. he hits her. She manages another scream. Hopefully someone will hear her.
Brooke Davenport, a teacher at Westbury High is giving a lecture to her class in the community center in Coopersfield on “safety” and “self defense” is leaving the community center when she hears a scream. She steps inside and asks George, the janitor of the community center go out and search the woods right by the center. Hearing a scream again she runs and sees the man sitting over a girl. Brooke calls 911 and then she yells at George to stay with the girl when the man takes off on foot. Brooke goes after the masked man, running as hard and fast as she can but thanks to a tree root she didn’t see she falls and the man gets away.
They take Maddie and Brooke to the hospital to be checked out. She calls home and talks to her brother, Wade. He sends his best friend, Luke to get her. (Luke had a crush on her in high school…) And Wade goes to pick up her daughter, Hayley from the school. Brooke isn’t comfortable having her kids not with him. When she gets home she recounts the events of the night. Wade isn't happy, he is being deployed tomorrow for afghanistan. He makes Luke promise to keep an eye out for her (for the next week, while he is at his nan’s house) atleast. Really he tries to hook them up. (Laughs) Luke agrees but is worried this is a bad idea. Now to see if they can find the man that attacked Maddie. Could Brooke be in danger? Would they put her name in the paper?
The next day Luke is awakened by a familiar nightmare, so he goes for a long ass jog. Literally he ran from his nan’s house to Brooke’s. That’s like a four mile run. He of course looked around and then headed back home. His nan was up so he had breakfast and she sent him back to Brooke’s to take her a casserole. When Brooke came down stairs, ready for work she had to stop and try to cut out the panic she felt when she heard someone routing around in the kitchen. She thinks Wade was running late so she was surprised to see Luke there. seems Wade gave him his key in case of an emergency. (snickers) After Brooke and the kids have breakfast (cooked by Luke) he takes them to school.
All goes well at school except Tony, a fellow teacher can’t take a hint that she is not interested in him. Men. After school Brooke unsuccessfully tries to avoid him but he’s right there ready to carry her bags. Luckily her son Chris comes to the rescue after they get to the front of the school. Brooke asks Chris where Hayley (her daughter) is and Tony’s face puckers up when he says she is in the car with Luke. His interests are peaked more than usual now so he follows them out of the school. Luke sees him and we have that male standoff that isn’t awkward at all. (snorts) Luke asserts himself over the situation and gets them all in the car and takes them home.
Home should be safe, right? Not. When Brooke hobbles out to the road to check the mail she finds a squished something in her mail box. Roadkill. (gags) Luke gets her inside and calls the cops. He had seen a black truck driving by her place earlier in the day but never expected that to be the result of it. Then Tony showed up at her house. Yes, that Tony. Big mistake. Luke makes it clear he isn't welcomed there and finally Brooke tells him there will never be anything between them and he leaves. Once the cops come in and do what they can -after telling brooke that Maddie wanted to see her- she and Luke get the kids settled in at his Nan’s and head to the hospital.
Her stalker is watching the hospital. Seems he has serious issues. More than one kind of problem. His older sister used to abuse him when he was younger. (Explains a lot...) Now as he watches Brooke walk into the hospital he wonders what they are doing. Will they talk about him? He has a present for Maddie… will she like it? Just as Brooke leaves the girls room she hears a scream. When Maddie opened her tray of food there was one of her earrings. Thanks to the news the next morning Brooke’s name and her past is out and the mystery man is out for her. Using her past and her friend’s death against her to get his own satisfaction at seeing her freak out.
After some time things get really dicey. Joe Verde, a man that used to work for Wade showed up drunk. He threw a rock through the window and was yelling outside. In order to keep Sunshine, the dog -who was outside and caught sight of the crazed man- from getting hurt by him Luke went out to talk to him. they got into a fight and Luke subdued him quickly. When the cops came he was arrested and they all tried to settle back in for the night. The kids father, her now ex husband of two years called and demanded the kids be brought to him. He wanted them away from Westbury. So, even though she wanted them close to her Brooke and Luke took the kids to Philly to their father’s place then came home. Brook went down to set the washer up with their dirty clothes… but what Brooke finds down there sets off a chain reaction of emotions in her that chill her to the bone.
A body, a woman's body is set up by the wall just as her friend Karen’s body had been all those years before. The past was coming back to her. When Luke hears her scream he runs down to her and after a little closer inspection.. finds its a mannequin. But the blood on it is real. It was set up to look like Maddie and remind her of Karen. The police come and as they investigate the scene Mike comes in to talk to Brooke. He suggests they not stay in the house tonight. Suggests a hotel or a safe place until things settle down some. Luke has other plans though. He will drive her to his place in Manhattan. No one would look for her there. Plus he knows its secure.
Sheriff O’Connell calls Brooke the next morning needing her to come in and answer some questions. She knew something was wrong. After Mike tells them about the latest body that was found they leave Manhattan and head to Westbury. When they arrive they meet with Mike and a few of his deputies. They couldn’t say who the woman was yet, the family hadn’t been notified. When a girl comes into the station to see Mike, Brook comes out of the room as she hears a scream. Looking into Mike’s office she almost collapses when she sees a student of hers in the office. Her family had lost a child all because she was in Brooke’s self defense class. With Luke’s help the police are going to compare the girl’s (the dead girl and Maddie’s) social media accounts and see what they have in common.
After they leave the police station Luke and Brooke head back to her place. As he starts his search Brooke does her own. The only noticeable thing she finds is that both girls have a picture of their school’s sports team taken by the same photographer. Owen, he is a townie and has contracts with the school Brooke works at too. This gives Brooke and idea to scope him out. And Luke, bless his heart but he goes along with her little plan. After leaving the photographers they go to the gym where they had been to spya t already. Of course they got nothing again. When they get back home Luke has to excuse himself to go and take a breath. Brooke’s recklessness is starting to get to him. While he panics in the bathroom Brooke gets a call to come outside. HE -the stalker- is watching her. If she doesn’t do what he says someone’s going to die.
Torn Brooke makes a choice to do as he says. She walks out of the house without a word. As soon as she gets to him he makes her drop her cell phone. When he thinks she is not going to listen to him he shows her who is in the back seat. She knows she has to do whatever she can to save them both. He makes her get in the trunk of his car and drives him to his home. Its there that he learns of his real identity. Shock that is the only thing that registers at first but then she wants to know why. So many reasons. He is a sick bastard after all. But what will happen next? You will have to read and find out.
This book, I have to say out of this collection I think is my favorite. The others have been frigging awesome but this one truly had me going “what the hell” and I had noooooooo clue the bad man was who he was. LOL Usually I can figure out pieces and make a good guess by them but this one stumped me and I literally listened to it almost non stop. It was that good. I can;t wait to jump into the next one.
July 18, 2020
3.5 -4 stars
I did like this. I really do not enjoy getting the bad guy's perspective, totally just...ugh, I don't want it, so yeah, those parts I did not enjoy.
I think there is a bit of suspension of disbelief. Sort of like in some cozy mysteries where someone with no training decides they are going to become super sleuth and do dangerous, stupid things in the name of finder the killer...I find that kind of stuff...annoying when not in a cozy mystery.
This had more "romance" than I remember from the other novels, but that was okay. I liked Luke a lot. He had some issues, but I did really like him.
I did like this. I really do not enjoy getting the bad guy's perspective, totally just...ugh, I don't want it, so yeah, those parts I did not enjoy.
I think there is a bit of suspension of disbelief. Sort of like in some cozy mysteries where someone with no training decides they are going to become super sleuth and do dangerous, stupid things in the name of finder the killer...I find that kind of stuff...annoying when not in a cozy mystery.
This had more "romance" than I remember from the other novels, but that was okay. I liked Luke a lot. He had some issues, but I did really like him.
December 15, 2019
Very good continuation of series
This is a very good murder mystery. I didn't even think the murderer was who it was until it's revealed. Brooke and Luke are both insecure with relationships and really just insecure with themselves. They both have past events they believe they failed to save someone in their lives (no spoilers). The murderer is more cunning and evil than anyone knew.
This is a very good murder mystery. I didn't even think the murderer was who it was until it's revealed. Brooke and Luke are both insecure with relationships and really just insecure with themselves. They both have past events they believe they failed to save someone in their lives (no spoilers). The murderer is more cunning and evil than anyone knew.
March 9, 2023
4 stars
I am still just loving Melinda Leigh’s books. They may be a little formulaic but she adds a lot of variety to keep it interesting.
The heroine was stubborn and it did get frustrating when she wouldn’t let things go but I felt that was a purposefully written character trait by Leigh.
I’m really wanting to get to the next one now that we have met the heroine in this book.
I am still just loving Melinda Leigh’s books. They may be a little formulaic but she adds a lot of variety to keep it interesting.
The heroine was stubborn and it did get frustrating when she wouldn’t let things go but I felt that was a purposefully written character trait by Leigh.
I’m really wanting to get to the next one now that we have met the heroine in this book.
August 6, 2021
The 3rd book in this series, fantastic read as were the previous books. Looking forward to the following books in this series. Love this author and have enjoyed all that I have read. Thanks Melinda
February 5, 2024
Really, really dumb heroine. Jeesh. Really bad villain.
July 29, 2017
Excellent story,,didnt see it coming,
June 28, 2022
Brooke was so unintelligent it killed me.
September 17, 2013
My Review:
I really like Melinda Leigh's style of writing suspense. Every single time, I think I have her writing/story figured out and then the next page I'm shocked...chapter after chapter. Long after I've thought that the surprises in the story have ended. I LOVE that. That's truly the way suspense should be written. This book was no exception to that. There were so many twists and turns and surprises...all the way to the end. You have to love a book that keeps you guessing.
This book is about Luke and Brooke, who have both been horribly traumatized by random violence in their lives. Luke is friends with Brooke's brother who is deployed to Afghanistan shortly after the book begins. At this point, they know her life could possibly be in danger so he asks Luke to step in to help keep her safe. Luke is suffering from horrible PTSD and feels completely useless and helpless in the face of possible danger. He's sure that he couldn't even save his own life at this point. I really enjoyed his aspect of the story and wish that could have been explored a bit more WITH Brooke. It seems like most that side of the story just went on in his mental ramblings and when he was alone.
I enjoyed the basic set-up for this book and found Luke's background to be especially riveting just because it seemed so real-world and believable, but as the book went on, I had a more and more difficult time with Brooke. She is just so utterly obsessed....to the detriment of EVERYTHING else. After 18 years like this, I just found it hard to believe that that attitude/obsession could ever change. That made this a very difficult book for me, especially the second half. I'm not sure most readers would react that way to her though. She definitely has a change of heart about how she lives her life at the end of the book, but this was her life for so long...that's where I lost touch with the fantasy. I'd need to see something with the two characters further down the road to truly believe that things could change (like maybe an epilogue might have helped), because I just didn't feel it from her in the book.
And it's very possible that the next book in the series will provide that. I hope that it does. That book features her friend, so I'm hoping that we get a glimpse of Brooke and Luke, happy together. It will be a further test for Brooke's new lifestyle if Abby is in danger (Brooke's entire life-focus is in teaching other women on how to be safe)...since Abby's the heroine in the next Melinda Leigh book...that's pretty much a sure thing, right??
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I really like Melinda Leigh's style of writing suspense. Every single time, I think I have her writing/story figured out and then the next page I'm shocked...chapter after chapter. Long after I've thought that the surprises in the story have ended. I LOVE that. That's truly the way suspense should be written. This book was no exception to that. There were so many twists and turns and surprises...all the way to the end. You have to love a book that keeps you guessing.
This book is about Luke and Brooke, who have both been horribly traumatized by random violence in their lives. Luke is friends with Brooke's brother who is deployed to Afghanistan shortly after the book begins. At this point, they know her life could possibly be in danger so he asks Luke to step in to help keep her safe. Luke is suffering from horrible PTSD and feels completely useless and helpless in the face of possible danger. He's sure that he couldn't even save his own life at this point. I really enjoyed his aspect of the story and wish that could have been explored a bit more WITH Brooke. It seems like most that side of the story just went on in his mental ramblings and when he was alone.
I enjoyed the basic set-up for this book and found Luke's background to be especially riveting just because it seemed so real-world and believable, but as the book went on, I had a more and more difficult time with Brooke. She is just so utterly obsessed....to the detriment of EVERYTHING else. After 18 years like this, I just found it hard to believe that that attitude/obsession could ever change. That made this a very difficult book for me, especially the second half. I'm not sure most readers would react that way to her though. She definitely has a change of heart about how she lives her life at the end of the book, but this was her life for so long...that's where I lost touch with the fantasy. I'd need to see something with the two characters further down the road to truly believe that things could change (like maybe an epilogue might have helped), because I just didn't feel it from her in the book.
And it's very possible that the next book in the series will provide that. I hope that it does. That book features her friend, so I'm hoping that we get a glimpse of Brooke and Luke, happy together. It will be a further test for Brooke's new lifestyle if Abby is in danger (Brooke's entire life-focus is in teaching other women on how to be safe)...since Abby's the heroine in the next Melinda Leigh book...that's pretty much a sure thing, right??
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
March 6, 2017
Not having too much luck with this series. The first was great, the second was good, this one was ehhhh...I just didn't feel the romance in this at all, it was like 80% suspense 20% romance. I felt Luke and Brooke were both still too messed up in the head to have a relationship which is why I was fine with their ending. Luke was too...boring. There was no excitement with him, contrary to how Brooke compared him to Ian, they seemed the same to me. He was very vanilla and kind of a diva. He had an absurd fetish with cleanliness who criticized their way of living as if they lived in filth when in reality it was simple things like papers scattered on a desk, shoes clumped in a corner, clothes overflowing the hamper, normal things that we all do. He tried to get Brooke to do everything by the book and keep out of the investigation which is completely normal for a man to say...if he were a cop. He was too uptight and reserved that even she couldn't get him to loosen up. I loved Brooke's kickass attitude and her determination to protect. She was a great mother and a role model parent who kept her problems with Ian away from their kids even though they knew she covered for him when she didn't have to. I think she deserved a lot better than Luke, it seemed like she settled for him more than anything. He was too closed off while she was willing to open up to him completely if he showed interest and a commitment to her. She was willing to risk her heart again while he was determined to guard his and protect her from a distance until he left. He needed more time to deal with his guilt before being given a chance with her.
The identity of the killer was both clever and disappointing at the same time for me. The whole book was filled with suspicious people meant to throw you off but most were easily eliminated because they were too close to her and the killer obviously hadn't known of her before she saved his latest victim. Who it turned out to be in a way was cool because the author threw in a major hint but it also sucked because if you didn't really pay attention to every character introduced, you would have overlooked him and thought nothing of it until the reveal. I don't know if I'm more disappointed in myself for skimming over his scenes or the author for being so vague and discreet that I'd never have guessed him because he was such a minor character.
While I didn't care pretty much for this one, it was worth reading to complete the series. I won't read it again though.
The identity of the killer was both clever and disappointing at the same time for me. The whole book was filled with suspicious people meant to throw you off but most were easily eliminated because they were too close to her and the killer obviously hadn't known of her before she saved his latest victim. Who it turned out to be in a way was cool because the author threw in a major hint but it also sucked because if you didn't really pay attention to every character introduced, you would have overlooked him and thought nothing of it until the reveal. I don't know if I'm more disappointed in myself for skimming over his scenes or the author for being so vague and discreet that I'd never have guessed him because he was such a minor character.
While I didn't care pretty much for this one, it was worth reading to complete the series. I won't read it again though.
September 12, 2013
Have you ever read that couple that you know from the very beginning that their relationship is destined to be utterly disastrous? That is Luke and Brooke. They are both suffering from survivors guilt. Luke has been dealing with it for about three months. Brooke has been drowning in it for close to twenty years. From the very beginning I saw them as a train wreck waiting for the derail. These two together just seemed like a very unhealthy relationship. Somehow they (Melinda Leigh) makes it work.
There were a few things that I found predictable. Brooke puts herself dangerous situations. Her guilt over something that happened numerous years ago drives her to an obsession to protect other women. Her need to help women is a compulsion that has her making some fairly reckless decisions. There were times that she was dangerously close to the too stupid to live line. I stress dangerously close. All of this makes an intense read, an enjoyable read. Her passion to teach situational awareness and self defense to women makes her easy to like and relate to. Her actions also make for a great read. The suspense stayed on the pages at all times.
Luke was an unlikely hero for me up until the very end. He has found himself in a situation he would never have volunteered for. His friend, Brooke’s brother Wade has requested that Luke keep an eye on his sister for the few days that he will be in town. Luke is visiting his grandmother before his next job takes him out of the country again. For the most part Luke was taking a break from life. He is healing physically, but mostly emotionally from a horrific event that happened just a few months before.
Overall She Can Scream is my least favorite book from Melinda. I’ve loved every single one of her books. I even enjoyed this one. I just found the hero and heroine not as relatable as the other characters she has created. That is one of the best things about Melinda’s books. Her characters are always so easy to connect to. They always seem to be someone you know.
There were a few things that I found predictable. Brooke puts herself dangerous situations. Her guilt over something that happened numerous years ago drives her to an obsession to protect other women. Her need to help women is a compulsion that has her making some fairly reckless decisions. There were times that she was dangerously close to the too stupid to live line. I stress dangerously close. All of this makes an intense read, an enjoyable read. Her passion to teach situational awareness and self defense to women makes her easy to like and relate to. Her actions also make for a great read. The suspense stayed on the pages at all times.
Luke was an unlikely hero for me up until the very end. He has found himself in a situation he would never have volunteered for. His friend, Brooke’s brother Wade has requested that Luke keep an eye on his sister for the few days that he will be in town. Luke is visiting his grandmother before his next job takes him out of the country again. For the most part Luke was taking a break from life. He is healing physically, but mostly emotionally from a horrific event that happened just a few months before.
Overall She Can Scream is my least favorite book from Melinda. I’ve loved every single one of her books. I even enjoyed this one. I just found the hero and heroine not as relatable as the other characters she has created. That is one of the best things about Melinda’s books. Her characters are always so easy to connect to. They always seem to be someone you know.
August 26, 2013
In the small town of Cooperstown, Pennsylvania, a stalker waits. Studying online activity and plotting his course of action.
Nearby, a single mother named Brooke Davenport finishes up the self-defense class she teaches in the community center, and just as she is leaving, she hears screams from a wooded area close to the center. Her quick action saves the life of young Maddie, but unleashes a season of danger for Brooke and young women all around.
Brooke’s loss of her roommate to a brutal murder sixteen years before launched her quest to protect women. But her efforts to heal psychologically are at a standstill.
Luke Holloway, a computer expert, is also trying to heal from his own emotional wounds. A terrorist bombing overseas killed his young assistant and he feels responsible.
Wade, Brooke’s brother, asks Luke to watch over her and the kids when he leaves for Afghanistan. But protecting Brooke willl turn into something much more for both of them.
Will the connection between them further halt their recoveries? How will Brooke’s passion for protecting others lead her into more danger? Who is the stalker and how can the two of them find him before he kills someone?
"She Can Scream" is a thrilling page-turner that explores the characters that are at risk, while also offering a glimpse into the stalker’s mind. From what we learn as we follow his actions, we know that he has killed before and loves the process of hunting and killing. We also learn a bit about his psyche and troubled childhood.
But who is he? There are so many unpleasant characters that could be suspects, that it took awhile to figure it out. The red herrings kept me off-kilter, but the reveal was very satisfying.
Another five star read from Melinda Leigh.
Nearby, a single mother named Brooke Davenport finishes up the self-defense class she teaches in the community center, and just as she is leaving, she hears screams from a wooded area close to the center. Her quick action saves the life of young Maddie, but unleashes a season of danger for Brooke and young women all around.
Brooke’s loss of her roommate to a brutal murder sixteen years before launched her quest to protect women. But her efforts to heal psychologically are at a standstill.
Luke Holloway, a computer expert, is also trying to heal from his own emotional wounds. A terrorist bombing overseas killed his young assistant and he feels responsible.
Wade, Brooke’s brother, asks Luke to watch over her and the kids when he leaves for Afghanistan. But protecting Brooke willl turn into something much more for both of them.
Will the connection between them further halt their recoveries? How will Brooke’s passion for protecting others lead her into more danger? Who is the stalker and how can the two of them find him before he kills someone?
"She Can Scream" is a thrilling page-turner that explores the characters that are at risk, while also offering a glimpse into the stalker’s mind. From what we learn as we follow his actions, we know that he has killed before and loves the process of hunting and killing. We also learn a bit about his psyche and troubled childhood.
But who is he? There are so many unpleasant characters that could be suspects, that it took awhile to figure it out. The red herrings kept me off-kilter, but the reveal was very satisfying.
Another five star read from Melinda Leigh.
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