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She Can... #4
She Can Hide
From the moment Officer Ethan Hale pulls Abby Foster from icy waters, he senses there’s more to her than meets the eye. Abby has no memory of the accident that submerged her car in the frozen river. Three years ago, Abby was kidnapped and abandoned in a well for a week. The botched police investigation nearly killed her. Abby had moved to the mountains of Pennsylvania for a fresh start, but when it becomes clear that this car crash wasn’t an accident, she knows the violence from her past has caught up with her.
But Abby’s former assailant was convicted and imprisoned, so who else wants her dead?
Ethan uncovers a fresh string of murders tied to Abby’s past. Someone is trying to kill her, and this time the stalker seems determined to finish the task. As the killer grows bolder, Abby begins to trust Ethan enough to share the truth, her heart, and her life. But to stop the murders, Ethan must make a decision that could jeopardize it all.
But Abby’s former assailant was convicted and imprisoned, so who else wants her dead?
Ethan uncovers a fresh string of murders tied to Abby’s past. Someone is trying to kill her, and this time the stalker seems determined to finish the task. As the killer grows bolder, Abby begins to trust Ethan enough to share the truth, her heart, and her life. But to stop the murders, Ethan must make a decision that could jeopardize it all.
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First published March 18, 2014
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About the author
Melinda Leigh
52 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 399 reviews
November 19, 2018
This book here was just... Okay. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ My least favorite in this series!
March 12, 2014
A slow building mystery that has many characters that all end up coming together from different directions for the shocking conclusion.
My thoughts on this one are that the author has written it so that the readers must deduce for themselves what the characters are like through their thoughts, actions, and interaction with other characters. When you got to the end of the book some of those conclusions you made throughout the book were not the right ones. Sometimes its refreshing to be wrong when reading a suspense or mystery trying to guess the who and what.
This book was the perfect example that not all books have to be filled with tons of action to keep you turning the pages. Every character was interesting and you wanted to know more about each even though at first you didn’t understand why all these characters were being introduced. But eventually the author reveals those reasons when the story lines intersect for what was a tense yet very satisfying conclusion.
My thoughts on this one are that the author has written it so that the readers must deduce for themselves what the characters are like through their thoughts, actions, and interaction with other characters. When you got to the end of the book some of those conclusions you made throughout the book were not the right ones. Sometimes its refreshing to be wrong when reading a suspense or mystery trying to guess the who and what.
This book was the perfect example that not all books have to be filled with tons of action to keep you turning the pages. Every character was interesting and you wanted to know more about each even though at first you didn’t understand why all these characters were being introduced. But eventually the author reveals those reasons when the story lines intersect for what was a tense yet very satisfying conclusion.
February 23, 2017
I really enjoyed this romantic suspense with plenty of exciting action that moved right along. So many of the characters both human and animal lived in such heart-tugging situations. A steady dependable hero and a heroine trying to find normality. Officer Ethan rescues teacher Abby when her car goes into an icy river.
June 17, 2024
Good but not great, I'm not sure why I started at book 4 in the series but I don't think it mattered.
This had more romance in it than other books by this author and I did enjoy that.
This had more romance in it than other books by this author and I did enjoy that.
January 5, 2015
3.5 stars
This is pretty much like the rest of the series. Wounded woman, protective man. Not much in the way of steam. Crazy psycho. Suspense. Dead bodies. Insta-love.
I know that makes it sound like I don't enjoy them, but I do.
I particularly enjoy the male characters. Honest, hardworking, honorable men. Ethan is a good guy.
Abby I found less appealing. I think it is frustrating to not be honest, completely honest and up front. I recognize the trust issues and all, but *shrugs* I was annoyed.
Derek was my bright spot. I want to adopt him.
There were a few twists I didn't see coming.
The insta-love and ...ugh...I don't know. Didn't care for it I guess.
Overall, I do like the stories and will continue to read them.
This is pretty much like the rest of the series. Wounded woman, protective man. Not much in the way of steam. Crazy psycho. Suspense. Dead bodies. Insta-love.
I know that makes it sound like I don't enjoy them, but I do.
I particularly enjoy the male characters. Honest, hardworking, honorable men. Ethan is a good guy.
Abby I found less appealing. I think it is frustrating to not be honest, completely honest and up front. I recognize the trust issues and all, but *shrugs* I was annoyed.
Derek was my bright spot. I want to adopt him.
There were a few twists I didn't see coming.
The insta-love and ...ugh...I don't know. Didn't care for it I guess.
Overall, I do like the stories and will continue to read them.
April 22, 2014
Didn't think I would love this book as much as I did. Beginning was slow even though it starts off with Abby Foster plunging into a lake and trying to escape her car. Officer Hale finds her and saves her....and then it begins. This book is filled with everything....murder, romance, thrills, secrets, surprises, love, family.....all in a great story. Abby goes from running away from her past to falling in love, and becoming part of a family who takes her in and protects her. The ending will wow you....definitely a good read. This is part of the "She Can Series"....definitely will read more of Melinda Leigh's books.
January 25, 2014
This is the fourth installment of Melinda Leigh's She Can series. If you enjoy action, mystery, and romance in your stories, than this is the one for you. This is a stand alone book so you don't have the read the first three. But they are just as good as this one. I really enjoyed this story, Melinda Leigh kept you guessing who the killer was and why they wanted Addy dead. I can't wait to see what Melinda Leigh will bring us next.
Abby Foster left Atlantic City and moved to Westbury. All she wants is a normal life and to forget what happened to her. Two years ago Abby was kidnapped and left in an abandoned well. She was there for two weeks and if not for the water at the bottom of the well, she would have died. Abby has a job she loves teaching at the local high school. Abby leaves school and the next thing she knows is that she is waking up in her suv in the middle of the nearly frozen river. It seems that
someone is determined to finish what was started two years ago.
Officer Ethan Hale is on his way back to the police station when he comes upon the accident scene. It looks like an suv has ran off the road and into the river. When he sees a woman in the water he drives in to rescue her. Abby tells Ethan she doesn't know how she ended up in the river. As Ethan investigate the accident he feels that Abby is hiding some important information from him.
Abby trusted the police when she was kidnapped and that got her nowhere. When the people connected to Abby's kidnapping start turning up dead Abby has no choice but to trust Ethan. Will Ethan be able to protect Abby form an unknown killer?
Abby Foster left Atlantic City and moved to Westbury. All she wants is a normal life and to forget what happened to her. Two years ago Abby was kidnapped and left in an abandoned well. She was there for two weeks and if not for the water at the bottom of the well, she would have died. Abby has a job she loves teaching at the local high school. Abby leaves school and the next thing she knows is that she is waking up in her suv in the middle of the nearly frozen river. It seems that
someone is determined to finish what was started two years ago.
Officer Ethan Hale is on his way back to the police station when he comes upon the accident scene. It looks like an suv has ran off the road and into the river. When he sees a woman in the water he drives in to rescue her. Abby tells Ethan she doesn't know how she ended up in the river. As Ethan investigate the accident he feels that Abby is hiding some important information from him.
Abby trusted the police when she was kidnapped and that got her nowhere. When the people connected to Abby's kidnapping start turning up dead Abby has no choice but to trust Ethan. Will Ethan be able to protect Abby form an unknown killer?
March 1, 2017
We know from the last book that Abby is a math teacher and friends with Brooke. She is closed off from people, doesn't trust much, and even Brooke doesn't know her past. Ethan has been the good cop in the background of this series. Don't know to much about him. Now in this book he is suddenly the hot cop as well.
The book starts with Abby in a car sinking in a icy body of water. She has a head injury and is sinking fast. Meanwhile Ethan is dealing with an older man majorly neglecting his horses, one has already died. Two have to be put in Ethan's barn. He drives by and sees a women in the water near a sinking car and jumps to get her. This is the beginning of the love story.
My favorite character in this story was Derrick, Abby's young neighbor. His mother is depressed and turns to alcohol and bad men. He was put in a foster home once already and two of the older boys in the same house beat him and tried to molest him. He spends his whole life worrying, trying to remain invisible. He is twelve years old and tries so hard not to be put back into the system. He hangs out with Abby getting tutored and walks her dog Zeus. His mom has a new boyfriend and he is different, very bad news.
Abby's past is that she was kidnapped and put into a well with plywood covering the top. Her kidnapper was arrested that night for bar fighting. She survived for 10 days in complete darkness with the little water at the bottom of the well. Turns out the police chief knew the entire time where she was and didn't follow the information on the kidnappers phone. Abby's been through a lot. Her dad was never there, just dropped of money. Her mother tried but was depressed. She taught Abby how to shoot and take care of herself but she never smiled and drank when she was depressed about her life. Abby father ends up being the owner of Valentine casinos in Atlantic city. He is a mobster, does deals, kills people. Her mom was a DEA agent and had an affair with Mr. Valentine. When Abby came they could never be together, he was also married with two kids. Her mom quit her job and he supported them but was never there. Abby even spent time in a foster home. A few months after the case with he kidnapper ended her mom overdosed and died. Abby moved to get away from all of it.
Ethan lives with his mother. His father died of a heart attack at 50 and his mom has bad arthritis. She couldn't keep up the farm or the cost so he pays for it and lives there. He left the NYPD to come home and take care of her, the farm, and his younger twin brothers.
Lots of action in this book. Abby was drugged and poisoned then put into her car to send it into the water. Derrick is dealing with his moms new boyfriend. We see Derick's mom pov enjoying the abusive sex and nature because she feels like she needs to be punished. We also see that he is cooking meth and such in their basement. Abby and Ethan find her kidnapper dead, then show up right after the retired police chief is killed. They give chase but didn't catch him. They are in Ethan's barn when the old man comes with a shot gun to get his horses. Zeus comes to the rescue for that one.
What I liked about this book is that the good characters are good people. Lots of action, a little sex and love. Their past are definitely interesting. The mystery kept twisting me around. We get Ryland Valentine's POV, we know he is a killer and his assistant is a cold murderer. He is trying to pull out of the illegal side of his business so his sons don't live that life. He talks about tying up lose ends. So I assume that he is sending his assistant to kill Abby. Then Abby reveals that she dated an older man who was married with children. So now its not clear who Valentine is. Even Ethan gets confused but we finally find out that Valentine is her father, his killer is killing the people who wronged Abby. They are trying to figure out who is sending killers Abby's way. We find out that Derrick's mom is dating a hired killer there to kill Abby. Derrick and his mom have seen to much. It ends up with her older neighbor killed. Derricks mom is being held their with Joe the hired killer, Derrick finds them while running away from the new foster home he was sent to. Ethan goes is and is at a stand off. He knows he can't put his gun down but Joe is cutting Derricks tongue and face. Abby knows what she has to do, she goes in (with a hidden gun) and tells Joe he can have her, kill her and still get away. He does, they are driving away when help arrives. She is driving being poked and cut with the knife. He says stop the car and she knows he will kill her. She turns the wheel and guns into the icy water, again. He punches her in the face. They both get out of the truck, and Ethan shows up and immediately runs to get Abby but Joe stops him and shoots him twice. Abby sees Ethan get shot and go down and reflexively shoots Joe, dead. She drags Ethan with her non broken elbow/arm out of the water. They all go to the hospital and think its over, its not. Ethan tells her to go home with his mom him and Derrick will be fine. She wakes up hearing a noise. She goes downstairs and sees a women with a gun pointed at her. Its Valentines wife. Turns out he has cancer, he had it three years ago and she had her kidnapped. Now its back and is going to kill Abby so that she doesn't get what is her son's. Luckily the cat distracts her and Abby uses her cast to knock the gun away just in time for Ethans cousin to come downstairs, she is also a cop. But, Valentine had his killer take care of his wife immediately with a bullet in the head. Its all over, Ethan is fostering Derick, asks Abby to move in, and get married when she is ready. Her dad comes to visit and apologize and tell her that her brothers want to meet her.
What I didn't like was the word choices Melinda Leigh used in Ethan's inner dialogue. He often had pity for Abby, she was a poor weak victim, broken, had "baggage" (can't be in the dark) while this is all true and just wasn't nice or loving. He even guilt's her with the fact that Joe the hired killer was only in Derick and his mom's live because of her. It was a slap in the face she didn't need, it lead her down a spiral of guilt that lead her to take off to her dad and go off with Joe, and Ethan never apologized for that or for thinking that everything was a lie and that Valentine was her lover. He knows she is strong but is constantly surprised by her strength, her knowing how to use a gun, being able to run and tag along with him. I didn't like that and it made the love very bitter sweet for me.
This was way better than the second book, had more action than the third, and I liked the characters, but maybe not together.
The book starts with Abby in a car sinking in a icy body of water. She has a head injury and is sinking fast. Meanwhile Ethan is dealing with an older man majorly neglecting his horses, one has already died. Two have to be put in Ethan's barn. He drives by and sees a women in the water near a sinking car and jumps to get her. This is the beginning of the love story.
My favorite character in this story was Derrick, Abby's young neighbor. His mother is depressed and turns to alcohol and bad men. He was put in a foster home once already and two of the older boys in the same house beat him and tried to molest him. He spends his whole life worrying, trying to remain invisible. He is twelve years old and tries so hard not to be put back into the system. He hangs out with Abby getting tutored and walks her dog Zeus. His mom has a new boyfriend and he is different, very bad news.
Abby's past is that she was kidnapped and put into a well with plywood covering the top. Her kidnapper was arrested that night for bar fighting. She survived for 10 days in complete darkness with the little water at the bottom of the well. Turns out the police chief knew the entire time where she was and didn't follow the information on the kidnappers phone. Abby's been through a lot. Her dad was never there, just dropped of money. Her mother tried but was depressed. She taught Abby how to shoot and take care of herself but she never smiled and drank when she was depressed about her life. Abby father ends up being the owner of Valentine casinos in Atlantic city. He is a mobster, does deals, kills people. Her mom was a DEA agent and had an affair with Mr. Valentine. When Abby came they could never be together, he was also married with two kids. Her mom quit her job and he supported them but was never there. Abby even spent time in a foster home. A few months after the case with he kidnapper ended her mom overdosed and died. Abby moved to get away from all of it.
Ethan lives with his mother. His father died of a heart attack at 50 and his mom has bad arthritis. She couldn't keep up the farm or the cost so he pays for it and lives there. He left the NYPD to come home and take care of her, the farm, and his younger twin brothers.
Lots of action in this book. Abby was drugged and poisoned then put into her car to send it into the water. Derrick is dealing with his moms new boyfriend. We see Derick's mom pov enjoying the abusive sex and nature because she feels like she needs to be punished. We also see that he is cooking meth and such in their basement. Abby and Ethan find her kidnapper dead, then show up right after the retired police chief is killed. They give chase but didn't catch him. They are in Ethan's barn when the old man comes with a shot gun to get his horses. Zeus comes to the rescue for that one.
What I liked about this book is that the good characters are good people. Lots of action, a little sex and love. Their past are definitely interesting. The mystery kept twisting me around. We get Ryland Valentine's POV, we know he is a killer and his assistant is a cold murderer. He is trying to pull out of the illegal side of his business so his sons don't live that life. He talks about tying up lose ends. So I assume that he is sending his assistant to kill Abby. Then Abby reveals that she dated an older man who was married with children. So now its not clear who Valentine is. Even Ethan gets confused but we finally find out that Valentine is her father, his killer is killing the people who wronged Abby. They are trying to figure out who is sending killers Abby's way. We find out that Derrick's mom is dating a hired killer there to kill Abby. Derrick and his mom have seen to much. It ends up with her older neighbor killed. Derricks mom is being held their with Joe the hired killer, Derrick finds them while running away from the new foster home he was sent to. Ethan goes is and is at a stand off. He knows he can't put his gun down but Joe is cutting Derricks tongue and face. Abby knows what she has to do, she goes in (with a hidden gun) and tells Joe he can have her, kill her and still get away. He does, they are driving away when help arrives. She is driving being poked and cut with the knife. He says stop the car and she knows he will kill her. She turns the wheel and guns into the icy water, again. He punches her in the face. They both get out of the truck, and Ethan shows up and immediately runs to get Abby but Joe stops him and shoots him twice. Abby sees Ethan get shot and go down and reflexively shoots Joe, dead. She drags Ethan with her non broken elbow/arm out of the water. They all go to the hospital and think its over, its not. Ethan tells her to go home with his mom him and Derrick will be fine. She wakes up hearing a noise. She goes downstairs and sees a women with a gun pointed at her. Its Valentines wife. Turns out he has cancer, he had it three years ago and she had her kidnapped. Now its back and is going to kill Abby so that she doesn't get what is her son's. Luckily the cat distracts her and Abby uses her cast to knock the gun away just in time for Ethans cousin to come downstairs, she is also a cop. But, Valentine had his killer take care of his wife immediately with a bullet in the head. Its all over, Ethan is fostering Derick, asks Abby to move in, and get married when she is ready. Her dad comes to visit and apologize and tell her that her brothers want to meet her.
What I didn't like was the word choices Melinda Leigh used in Ethan's inner dialogue. He often had pity for Abby, she was a poor weak victim, broken, had "baggage" (can't be in the dark) while this is all true and just wasn't nice or loving. He even guilt's her with the fact that Joe the hired killer was only in Derick and his mom's live because of her. It was a slap in the face she didn't need, it lead her down a spiral of guilt that lead her to take off to her dad and go off with Joe, and Ethan never apologized for that or for thinking that everything was a lie and that Valentine was her lover. He knows she is strong but is constantly surprised by her strength, her knowing how to use a gun, being able to run and tag along with him. I didn't like that and it made the love very bitter sweet for me.
This was way better than the second book, had more action than the third, and I liked the characters, but maybe not together.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2014
After surviving a brutal attack three years before, Abby Foster is starting over in a small town in the Pennsylvania mountains. Westbury seems to promise the quiet normal life this high school teacher has been yearning.
But while driving her car one day, Abby ends up in the bottom of an icy river, facing death again. Luckily, Officer Ethan Hale was passing by and helped save her. But as grateful as she is, Abby has her own reasons for not knowing if she can trust him. But as she watches him over the next few days and has seen how protective Ethan is, Abby begins to trust him a little, and something more is now brewing between them. Can she trust him with her heart?
With no memory of the two hours before her plunge into the river, the answers that follow thrust her into fear once again. After testing her water bottle, the police have discovered that a poisonous substance had been added. The river plunge was no accident.
Who is trying to kill her again? The man responsible for the previous attempt was supposedly still in prison, but new discoveries lead them on a quest to find out just who is behind both attempts. Who from Abby's past is out to get her?
Why is Abby traveling to Atlantic City to meet with a mob boss? What secrets is she hiding that might put her further at risk?
Great characters populate this story, and with lots of twists and turns and new surprises around every corner, "She Can Hide (She Can Series)" is a tumultuous ride toward solving all the mysteries and keeping the innocent safe. With mob bosses and meth addicts added to the mix, there could be plenty of violence before it all comes to an end. 5.0
But while driving her car one day, Abby ends up in the bottom of an icy river, facing death again. Luckily, Officer Ethan Hale was passing by and helped save her. But as grateful as she is, Abby has her own reasons for not knowing if she can trust him. But as she watches him over the next few days and has seen how protective Ethan is, Abby begins to trust him a little, and something more is now brewing between them. Can she trust him with her heart?
With no memory of the two hours before her plunge into the river, the answers that follow thrust her into fear once again. After testing her water bottle, the police have discovered that a poisonous substance had been added. The river plunge was no accident.
Who is trying to kill her again? The man responsible for the previous attempt was supposedly still in prison, but new discoveries lead them on a quest to find out just who is behind both attempts. Who from Abby's past is out to get her?
Why is Abby traveling to Atlantic City to meet with a mob boss? What secrets is she hiding that might put her further at risk?
Great characters populate this story, and with lots of twists and turns and new surprises around every corner, "She Can Hide (She Can Series)" is a tumultuous ride toward solving all the mysteries and keeping the innocent safe. With mob bosses and meth addicts added to the mix, there could be plenty of violence before it all comes to an end. 5.0
March 2, 2014
She Can Hide is the latest installment in Melinda Leigh’s riveting She Can romantic suspense series. As with all of her books readers are treated to an intense page turning wild ride that doesn’t allow you to put the book down.
Abby fled Atlantic City to Westbury Pennsylvania in search of a new life. She is also hoping the few new people she welcomes into her life never discover the secrets she is hiding. The secret keeping is taken out of her control when someone decides to send her car (with Abby strapped into the driver seat) plunging into the freezing depths of Packman Creek. Luckily for her the very sexy Officer Ethan Hale happens upon the crash.
Things are not anything resembling simple. There is so much more going on than Abby’s car in the creek. Her neighbor is entertaining in a way that will see her down a destructive road. The neighbor’s kid is almost as good as Abby with his hiding and evasion skills. More and more strays are turning up in Ethan’s life, the life he was trying to simplify. To top it all off every time an answer in Abby’s case is answered two more questions arise.
I was thoroughly pleased with She Can Hide. Ethan and Abby were amazing. All the secondary characters were great additions to this read. The suspense kept the pages turning and me guessing. There were several great pet characters which is just something I’ve come to expect with Melissa’s books. A couple of characters from past books in the series make small appearances, but each book in this series easily works as a stand-alone.
Abby fled Atlantic City to Westbury Pennsylvania in search of a new life. She is also hoping the few new people she welcomes into her life never discover the secrets she is hiding. The secret keeping is taken out of her control when someone decides to send her car (with Abby strapped into the driver seat) plunging into the freezing depths of Packman Creek. Luckily for her the very sexy Officer Ethan Hale happens upon the crash.
Things are not anything resembling simple. There is so much more going on than Abby’s car in the creek. Her neighbor is entertaining in a way that will see her down a destructive road. The neighbor’s kid is almost as good as Abby with his hiding and evasion skills. More and more strays are turning up in Ethan’s life, the life he was trying to simplify. To top it all off every time an answer in Abby’s case is answered two more questions arise.
I was thoroughly pleased with She Can Hide. Ethan and Abby were amazing. All the secondary characters were great additions to this read. The suspense kept the pages turning and me guessing. There were several great pet characters which is just something I’ve come to expect with Melissa’s books. A couple of characters from past books in the series make small appearances, but each book in this series easily works as a stand-alone.
March 5, 2014
She Can Hide is the 4th book in the She Can series and although each book can be read as a stand alone I highly recommend reading them all because, well, they are just that good!
When Ethan finds Abby loosing her battle to keep afloat in an icy lake following an accident, and she can not remember the past couple of hours let alone how her car came to be submerged in a lake, he suspects there may be more going on than there appears at first glance. When Ethan and Abby join forces to figure out what is going on they unravel more than they bargained for and it was a tension and drama filled journey right until the very end.
I love Melinda's writing style and I have yet to read any of her books and not lose myself in it from start to finish, this was another one sitting book and I loved how everything tied in. Personally, I enjoy stories when kids are involved and Derek, Abby's neighbour, was likeable and I enjoyed his story arc, it added a little extra to the main plotline and more dimensions to the characters involved.
When Ethan finds Abby loosing her battle to keep afloat in an icy lake following an accident, and she can not remember the past couple of hours let alone how her car came to be submerged in a lake, he suspects there may be more going on than there appears at first glance. When Ethan and Abby join forces to figure out what is going on they unravel more than they bargained for and it was a tension and drama filled journey right until the very end.
I love Melinda's writing style and I have yet to read any of her books and not lose myself in it from start to finish, this was another one sitting book and I loved how everything tied in. Personally, I enjoy stories when kids are involved and Derek, Abby's neighbour, was likeable and I enjoyed his story arc, it added a little extra to the main plotline and more dimensions to the characters involved.
September 24, 2015
This book really kept me guessing until the end as to who the actual mastermind was! The suspense angle is really what makes these books, more so than the characters themselves.
Abby has been hiding quite a bit and now that someone is trying to kill her for the second time, she's decided to quit hiding. I liked that she was a stronger heroine, but many things about her weren't adding up for me. All of it was explained, but some of those explanations were pretty "Wow!" worthy.
Ethan annoyed me. He didn't come off as an alpha hero at all, merely a man in the right place at the right time. I liked how the attraction between him and Abby built slowly, as it made the "I love you"s a bit more realistic.
This was full of twists and turns and was an enjoyable story from start to finish!
Abby has been hiding quite a bit and now that someone is trying to kill her for the second time, she's decided to quit hiding. I liked that she was a stronger heroine, but many things about her weren't adding up for me. All of it was explained, but some of those explanations were pretty "Wow!" worthy.
Ethan annoyed me. He didn't come off as an alpha hero at all, merely a man in the right place at the right time. I liked how the attraction between him and Abby built slowly, as it made the "I love you"s a bit more realistic.
This was full of twists and turns and was an enjoyable story from start to finish!
July 29, 2018
One word - meh...
July 13, 2014
The fourth book in the She Can series by Melinda Leigh. Abby Foster is in her car as it sinks in the river but somehow manages to escape. Officer Ethan Hale comes along to assist her. It becomes apparent that someone wants Abby dead. But why? Together Ethan and Abby investigate and find themselves attracted to each other.
The suspense portion of the story was excellent in my opinion. I wasn't as sold on the romance. It was alright but lacked something. The whodunit was a major surprise. Okay, at one point I did speculate on that person but quickly dismissed it. There was the side story about Derek, her neighbor's kid, that added a lot to the story. I really loved Derek! This was my first book by this author and I will check out more.
The suspense portion of the story was excellent in my opinion. I wasn't as sold on the romance. It was alright but lacked something. The whodunit was a major surprise. Okay, at one point I did speculate on that person but quickly dismissed it. There was the side story about Derek, her neighbor's kid, that added a lot to the story. I really loved Derek! This was my first book by this author and I will check out more.
May 5, 2018
An action packed novel, keeping Abby alive and safe while trying to understand why she was the target of many attempts on her life. It was also a steamy love story that escalated quickly. An interesting weave but a little on the fairytale side at times! It takes your mind to a different place and that's why we read!
June 15, 2017
She Can Hide, The 4th installment of Melinda Leigh’s She Can series, is filled spine tingling suspense and believable characters that take you along with them on their wild ride.
This book opens with heart pounding action and does not let up. I love the strength of the heroine, Abby Foster. I appreciate that, while she has her owns issues, she is still fair in her budding relationship with Ethan Hale. She tries very hard to overcome her past to give Ethan a chance and not hold her past against him. She is smart and capable but not overpowering when it comes to her distancing herself from everyone because of her past. Abby is definitely a character that you want to root for throughout the story. Ethan is the perfect counterpart for Abby. He is smart and patient and just protective enough to let Abby make her own decisions, even if they scare him. At first, I was not sure I would like having Derek’s, Abby’s 12 year-old neighbor, storyline intertwined in the story. However, as the book moved along, I really liked Derek and he fit in the story perfectly. Even the season in which the book takes place is perfect. It adds to the story’s malevolent feel throughout the book.
There are several different POV’s in this book and Ms. Leigh writes this flawlessly. Each POV helps move the story along and helps, not only add to the suspense, but also to the many plot twists in this book.
I have read many of Ms. Leigh’s books and while I have thoroughly enjoyed all of them so far, this one ranks as a favorite. If you like lots of suspense, smart and likable protagonists, a flawed antagonist that is written perfectly (there a few bad guys in this book but the main one is complex and multi-layered and I love that about him), then this book is definitely for you. I feel that while this book is part of a series, you can read it as a stand alone and not be lost. There are characters for previous books brought back in this one but you will still be able to follow everything in this book with no problem.
This book opens with heart pounding action and does not let up. I love the strength of the heroine, Abby Foster. I appreciate that, while she has her owns issues, she is still fair in her budding relationship with Ethan Hale. She tries very hard to overcome her past to give Ethan a chance and not hold her past against him. She is smart and capable but not overpowering when it comes to her distancing herself from everyone because of her past. Abby is definitely a character that you want to root for throughout the story. Ethan is the perfect counterpart for Abby. He is smart and patient and just protective enough to let Abby make her own decisions, even if they scare him. At first, I was not sure I would like having Derek’s, Abby’s 12 year-old neighbor, storyline intertwined in the story. However, as the book moved along, I really liked Derek and he fit in the story perfectly. Even the season in which the book takes place is perfect. It adds to the story’s malevolent feel throughout the book.
There are several different POV’s in this book and Ms. Leigh writes this flawlessly. Each POV helps move the story along and helps, not only add to the suspense, but also to the many plot twists in this book.
I have read many of Ms. Leigh’s books and while I have thoroughly enjoyed all of them so far, this one ranks as a favorite. If you like lots of suspense, smart and likable protagonists, a flawed antagonist that is written perfectly (there a few bad guys in this book but the main one is complex and multi-layered and I love that about him), then this book is definitely for you. I feel that while this book is part of a series, you can read it as a stand alone and not be lost. There are characters for previous books brought back in this one but you will still be able to follow everything in this book with no problem.
April 20, 2023
This one really started out with a bang and kept going from there. I felt for Abby and what she went through, felt even worse for her when we learned what happened to her in the past. For everything she had been through, she was doing amazing.
I liked Ethan from the start, liked how he was there for Abby when she really needed someone and stayed by her side as they looked into things. Like Abby, I was mad at him for what he had to do with Derek, even knowing it was the way things had to be, yet learned later the extra step he took, really showed what a good guy he was.
When we finally got to who the bad guy was and why I found myself shaking my head. How horrible! I would not have wasted so much of my life on a POS like that. At least things are safe for Abby now and she and Ethan can start building a life.
I liked Ethan from the start, liked how he was there for Abby when she really needed someone and stayed by her side as they looked into things. Like Abby, I was mad at him for what he had to do with Derek, even knowing it was the way things had to be, yet learned later the extra step he took, really showed what a good guy he was.
When we finally got to who the bad guy was and why I found myself shaking my head. How horrible! I would not have wasted so much of my life on a POS like that. At least things are safe for Abby now and she and Ethan can start building a life.
March 28, 2023
4.5 stars.
I am racing through this series. There’s so much action in these books and I love it!
There is a lot going on here but I don’t mind that at all. I’m not sure how Melinda Leigh keeps banging these out and making them original but she’s nailing it.
I am racing through this series. There’s so much action in these books and I love it!
There is a lot going on here but I don’t mind that at all. I’m not sure how Melinda Leigh keeps banging these out and making them original but she’s nailing it.
March 19, 2019
An easy read that was enjoyable.
April 22, 2019
Or close enough to 4 stars to count as such.
November 11, 2022
Another great read in this series. I figured out who was behind the kidnapping and attempted murder just before it was revealed but then Leigh adds another unexpected twist at the end that was surprising. If you like fast paced, action, strong characters, suspense and a hint of romance this is for you! Looking forward to reading another book or series by Melinda Leigh.
October 26, 2018
Same story
All the books are the same, different names - various plots but predictable ; why keep reading the same over and over?!?
All the books are the same, different names - various plots but predictable ; why keep reading the same over and over?!?
October 16, 2021
4.5 stars
March 12, 2014
Full disclosure: I was lucky enough to be provided an ARC by Melinda Leigh. All opinions are my own.
She Can Hide is the latest offering in Leigh’s She Can series.
Abby Foster moved to Westbury to start a new life. Three years ago, she was kidnapped and held in an abandoned well. However, someone doesn’t want her to have a life, new or otherwise. Abby wakes up in her car, which is partially submerged in an icy, raging river.
Luckily, police officer Ethan Hale sees her car and races in to rescue her. Ethan is immediately drawn to Abby, but Abby isn’t sure she can overcome her distrust of police officers. The officer who investigated her kidnapping bungled everything. Can she put aside those feelings and open up to Ethan?
When it’s revealed that Abby’s accident was really an attempt on her life, she realizes that she has only moved her problems to another location. And that she’s possibly endangered everyone she’s started to love.
Derek, Abby’s next-door neighbor, lives with his mom, who struggles with her addictions to drugs and bad men. Derek seeks out shelter with Abby quite often, but is terrified that he will be taken away from his mom and put back into the foster system.
Ethan’s career as a police officer seems logical, given his history of taking care of the people around him. His father passed away at an early age and Ethan has worked hard to keep the family farm going for his mom and two brothers. He also ends up caring for the animals his cousin rescues in her job as a humane society officer.
What I liked about Abby was that she was a very strong woman. Stupid headstrong at times, but she wasn’t a shrinking violet. On the flipside, she was insightful enough to realize that she couldn’t judge every police officer by the one experience she had. I also liked Ethan as a good male lead. He came across as a very caring person with the best of intentions. Finally, I loved Derek. I thought Leigh’s writing of him was some of her best work yet. He was so real that you wanted to rescue him yourself.
Very well done.
She Can Hide is the latest offering in Leigh’s She Can series.
Abby Foster moved to Westbury to start a new life. Three years ago, she was kidnapped and held in an abandoned well. However, someone doesn’t want her to have a life, new or otherwise. Abby wakes up in her car, which is partially submerged in an icy, raging river.
Luckily, police officer Ethan Hale sees her car and races in to rescue her. Ethan is immediately drawn to Abby, but Abby isn’t sure she can overcome her distrust of police officers. The officer who investigated her kidnapping bungled everything. Can she put aside those feelings and open up to Ethan?
When it’s revealed that Abby’s accident was really an attempt on her life, she realizes that she has only moved her problems to another location. And that she’s possibly endangered everyone she’s started to love.
Derek, Abby’s next-door neighbor, lives with his mom, who struggles with her addictions to drugs and bad men. Derek seeks out shelter with Abby quite often, but is terrified that he will be taken away from his mom and put back into the foster system.
Ethan’s career as a police officer seems logical, given his history of taking care of the people around him. His father passed away at an early age and Ethan has worked hard to keep the family farm going for his mom and two brothers. He also ends up caring for the animals his cousin rescues in her job as a humane society officer.
What I liked about Abby was that she was a very strong woman. Stupid headstrong at times, but she wasn’t a shrinking violet. On the flipside, she was insightful enough to realize that she couldn’t judge every police officer by the one experience she had. I also liked Ethan as a good male lead. He came across as a very caring person with the best of intentions. Finally, I loved Derek. I thought Leigh’s writing of him was some of her best work yet. He was so real that you wanted to rescue him yourself.
Very well done.
March 25, 2014
My Review:
There is one thing that you can count on with Melinda Leigh's romantic suspense novels...she is going to deliver a great novel with twists and turns that will keep you guessing all the way to the end... even when you are sure you are right on top of the suspense story line. This book was no different from that norm...thank goodness. This was another great release for romantic suspense.
This book was about Ethan and Abby. Abby is a high school teacher who mysteriously ends up in a frozen creek with no memory how she got there. Thank goodness for Ethan pulling her out or that creek would have been her last memory. But this can't be just a coincidence since someone tried to kill Abby 3 years ago, too. She's a schoolteacher...people shouldn't be trying to kill her. And Ethan is entranced by her, so he needs to get to the bottom of why someone is trying to kill her.
Like I said, Melinda Leigh writes a tight book. There are many twists and turns in the story line that always manage to keep me completely entranced. I loved the addition of Ethan's family and the farm in this one. I loved all the animals and Derek and how they added to the story line so much. Ethan just wants to simplify his life and every day it becomes deeper and more complicated, but there was a sweet sense to that aspect of the story line. He's a protector and can't help, but to gather more and more of these people and creatures around him that need protecting. It definitely helped me fall in love with him.
This is number 4 in the series, but it completely works as a standalone. There are minor references in the book to the other stories, but you absolutely won't miss anything in this one if you pick it up first. Although, I will admit...the whole series has been good. I don't think you'll regret taking the time to read any of them. Definitely great examples of fantastic romantic suspense.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
There is one thing that you can count on with Melinda Leigh's romantic suspense novels...she is going to deliver a great novel with twists and turns that will keep you guessing all the way to the end... even when you are sure you are right on top of the suspense story line. This book was no different from that norm...thank goodness. This was another great release for romantic suspense.
This book was about Ethan and Abby. Abby is a high school teacher who mysteriously ends up in a frozen creek with no memory how she got there. Thank goodness for Ethan pulling her out or that creek would have been her last memory. But this can't be just a coincidence since someone tried to kill Abby 3 years ago, too. She's a schoolteacher...people shouldn't be trying to kill her. And Ethan is entranced by her, so he needs to get to the bottom of why someone is trying to kill her.
Like I said, Melinda Leigh writes a tight book. There are many twists and turns in the story line that always manage to keep me completely entranced. I loved the addition of Ethan's family and the farm in this one. I loved all the animals and Derek and how they added to the story line so much. Ethan just wants to simplify his life and every day it becomes deeper and more complicated, but there was a sweet sense to that aspect of the story line. He's a protector and can't help, but to gather more and more of these people and creatures around him that need protecting. It definitely helped me fall in love with him.
This is number 4 in the series, but it completely works as a standalone. There are minor references in the book to the other stories, but you absolutely won't miss anything in this one if you pick it up first. Although, I will admit...the whole series has been good. I don't think you'll regret taking the time to read any of them. Definitely great examples of fantastic romantic suspense.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
March 17, 2014
Imagine this – waking up in your car, feeling icy water under your feet, sight foggy through your windshield, brain hazy with thoughts and a big black hole for your memory.
This is the opening scene in Melinda Leigh’s latest novel, “She Can Hide”. Now how can I put this book down with such a resounding opening, as I was imagining myself in that drowning car!
Abby Foster finds herself fighting for her life in the chilling waters of a Pennsylvania winter. Everyone has a past. But some have a past that chases them to a far off land to start fresh and make a semblance of a decent life. Working as a high school teacher, Abby just wants to live a quite life and forget her traumatic past – a past that had her locked down in a dry well for days before she was rescued.
A past that she is not willing to share even with Officer Ethan Hale. As Ethan struggles to put together Abby’s past amidst their rising passion and love, the killer is very busy assimilating dead bodies. With trust on precarious grounds, Ethan and Abby support each other to piece the mystery behind Abby’s attempt on life.
The connecting story between Abby’s past and her present, a background of betrayals and secrets, shady and dark dealings trying to get on legitimate grounds, jealousy and rage riding the subplot, “She Can Hide” is a roller-coaster of thrills and surprises.
Melinda Leigh has a knack for writing racy thrillers and chilling suspense, and I love the way she works subplots, and the connection to the main story is never dull, keeping the element of surprise. From her first book, “She Can Run”, every story was as different as chalk and cheese, with equal elements of excitement, shivers, obsession, lust and an adrenaline rush to the finish line.
Never a dull moment!
Thanks Melinda for the opportunity to review your book :)
http://alimalivzletlivz.wordpress.com
This is the opening scene in Melinda Leigh’s latest novel, “She Can Hide”. Now how can I put this book down with such a resounding opening, as I was imagining myself in that drowning car!
Abby Foster finds herself fighting for her life in the chilling waters of a Pennsylvania winter. Everyone has a past. But some have a past that chases them to a far off land to start fresh and make a semblance of a decent life. Working as a high school teacher, Abby just wants to live a quite life and forget her traumatic past – a past that had her locked down in a dry well for days before she was rescued.
A past that she is not willing to share even with Officer Ethan Hale. As Ethan struggles to put together Abby’s past amidst their rising passion and love, the killer is very busy assimilating dead bodies. With trust on precarious grounds, Ethan and Abby support each other to piece the mystery behind Abby’s attempt on life.
The connecting story between Abby’s past and her present, a background of betrayals and secrets, shady and dark dealings trying to get on legitimate grounds, jealousy and rage riding the subplot, “She Can Hide” is a roller-coaster of thrills and surprises.
Melinda Leigh has a knack for writing racy thrillers and chilling suspense, and I love the way she works subplots, and the connection to the main story is never dull, keeping the element of surprise. From her first book, “She Can Run”, every story was as different as chalk and cheese, with equal elements of excitement, shivers, obsession, lust and an adrenaline rush to the finish line.
Never a dull moment!
Thanks Melinda for the opportunity to review your book :)
http://alimalivzletlivz.wordpress.com
March 9, 2014
SHE CAN HIDE was a chilling suspense novel that made me keep checking that the doors were locked and my cell phone was charged. Abby Foster had been hoping to start a new life after being kidnapped and abandoned in an old well. But it looks like whoever wanted her dead isn't ready to give up.
The story begins with Abby waking up in her car which has been driven into an icy river. She gets out but needs police officer Ethan Hale to complete the rescue. Abby has no idea how she got to the river or what happened to her in the two hours since she left work to do some running. Ethan wants to help her but her previous experience with the police keeps her from trusting him.
Soon Ethan and Abby are on the trail but they keep finding dead bodies along their path. Someone really doesn't want Abby to find out who is trying to kill her. Paralleling this story is the story of Abby's young neighbor Derek who lives with his alcoholic mother and her sleazy, scary boyfriend. He also has good reason not to be very trusting and to be especially wary of the police and anyone from the foster care system.
We also get part of the story from the viewpoint of mobster Ryland Valentine who is trying to come clean and go legitimate in his old age and who has sent out his henchman to clean up loose ends.
This was an excellent thriller and a great romance too. I liked the way Abby began to learn that she could trust Ethan. And I really loved Ethan who besides being gorgeous is also a world-class nice guy. Fans of romantic suspense won't want to miss this story.
The story begins with Abby waking up in her car which has been driven into an icy river. She gets out but needs police officer Ethan Hale to complete the rescue. Abby has no idea how she got to the river or what happened to her in the two hours since she left work to do some running. Ethan wants to help her but her previous experience with the police keeps her from trusting him.
Soon Ethan and Abby are on the trail but they keep finding dead bodies along their path. Someone really doesn't want Abby to find out who is trying to kill her. Paralleling this story is the story of Abby's young neighbor Derek who lives with his alcoholic mother and her sleazy, scary boyfriend. He also has good reason not to be very trusting and to be especially wary of the police and anyone from the foster care system.
We also get part of the story from the viewpoint of mobster Ryland Valentine who is trying to come clean and go legitimate in his old age and who has sent out his henchman to clean up loose ends.
This was an excellent thriller and a great romance too. I liked the way Abby began to learn that she could trust Ethan. And I really loved Ethan who besides being gorgeous is also a world-class nice guy. Fans of romantic suspense won't want to miss this story.
March 18, 2014
REVIEW – She Can Hide by Melinda Leigh
The intense and powerful opening scenes of this book deserve 6 stars!
SHE CAN HIDE is a chilling story of heart-racing suspense peppered with dynamic romantic passion that hooked me immediately.
This is a story that will keep you up all night; alternately on the edge of your seat, thankful the doors are locked and the lights on, -- or nestled in your easy chair savoring the lasciviousness of the building romance.
Creating characters that pop right off the page and take form in the readers mind is a genuine strength that Melinda Leigh shows in her writing. Ethan and Abby “come alive” immediately and I found myself in the story with them, applauding Abby’s feistiness and Ethan’s solid trustworthiness, but the ultimate hero in character creation by Melinda was Derek. He stole my heart from his first appearance in the book and kept it wrenched tightly in his fist until the very end.
There are many subplots woven expertly through this book and you will enjoy the twists and turns that the author takes you on. By the end of the story all of those layers will be seamed together and you will realize the true depth of plotting created by Ms. Leigh. This is romantic suspense at its best!
I was provided the opportunity to read this book and share my honest opinion with other readers. It is with great respect for the author and story, as well as my pleasure as a reader, to rate SHE CAN HIDE five stars. Read it!!
The intense and powerful opening scenes of this book deserve 6 stars!
SHE CAN HIDE is a chilling story of heart-racing suspense peppered with dynamic romantic passion that hooked me immediately.
This is a story that will keep you up all night; alternately on the edge of your seat, thankful the doors are locked and the lights on, -- or nestled in your easy chair savoring the lasciviousness of the building romance.
Creating characters that pop right off the page and take form in the readers mind is a genuine strength that Melinda Leigh shows in her writing. Ethan and Abby “come alive” immediately and I found myself in the story with them, applauding Abby’s feistiness and Ethan’s solid trustworthiness, but the ultimate hero in character creation by Melinda was Derek. He stole my heart from his first appearance in the book and kept it wrenched tightly in his fist until the very end.
There are many subplots woven expertly through this book and you will enjoy the twists and turns that the author takes you on. By the end of the story all of those layers will be seamed together and you will realize the true depth of plotting created by Ms. Leigh. This is romantic suspense at its best!
I was provided the opportunity to read this book and share my honest opinion with other readers. It is with great respect for the author and story, as well as my pleasure as a reader, to rate SHE CAN HIDE five stars. Read it!!
October 11, 2015
Review will be posted at www.books-n-kisses.com .
NUMBER OF HEARTS: 3 3/4
REVIEW:
Three years ago she survived an attempt on her life. Now Abby wants to live a quiet life in a quiet little town. But there is nothing quiet about waking up in the middle of a river with your car sinking. Problem is Abby can’t remember how she got here. When pieces of the puzzle start falling into place Abby will have to learn to trust and put her faith in to a man who very well could break her.
Another good book from Melinda. I will say that this one didn’t have my anxiety levels up until the very end. But it was still a very good story. I loved Ethan and Abby. Abby most definitely doesn’t have the best past and her fears are warranted. But even with that she is a pretty tough cookie. Abby is willing to meet danger head on, at least this time she has Ethan.
And Ethan oh boy this guy rocks!! Not only is he willing to give up his life to help his mom and little brothers. He is willing to jump into an icy river to save a stranger.
If you have read any of Melinda’s She Can... books you will enjoy She Can Hide. If you have not pick up any books in this series. Never fear they are each easily read as stand alone.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Montlake Romance in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
NUMBER OF HEARTS: 3 3/4
REVIEW:
Three years ago she survived an attempt on her life. Now Abby wants to live a quiet life in a quiet little town. But there is nothing quiet about waking up in the middle of a river with your car sinking. Problem is Abby can’t remember how she got here. When pieces of the puzzle start falling into place Abby will have to learn to trust and put her faith in to a man who very well could break her.
Another good book from Melinda. I will say that this one didn’t have my anxiety levels up until the very end. But it was still a very good story. I loved Ethan and Abby. Abby most definitely doesn’t have the best past and her fears are warranted. But even with that she is a pretty tough cookie. Abby is willing to meet danger head on, at least this time she has Ethan.
And Ethan oh boy this guy rocks!! Not only is he willing to give up his life to help his mom and little brothers. He is willing to jump into an icy river to save a stranger.
If you have read any of Melinda’s She Can... books you will enjoy She Can Hide. If you have not pick up any books in this series. Never fear they are each easily read as stand alone.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Montlake Romance in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
June 14, 2014
I had just plowed through "She Can Scream," the book just before this one in author Melinda Leigh's mystery/thriller/romance series, so I had to read the fourth installment. I could have chewed through "She Can Hide" in a single day, but then I'd be ignoring my wife to hang out with Abby Foster, who had just been rescued from icy river waters by Officer Ethan Hale. How would that look? My wife wouldn't care. She's a school teacher, just like Abby. Abby has no idea how she wound up in her car in the river. Her new friend the cop helps her unravel the mystery. And it's a good one. I didn't have a clue where Leigh was taking the story. She's damn good at this genre. And she's made it her own. I love Lee Child's Jack Reacher series for its inventive plot lines and confounding weirdness. And I believe Leigh's right up there with him. She can really write. And her prose is crisp. Her English perfect. I enjoy the heck out of her stories. They can get a little steamy, however. Not that it's a bad thing. Far from it. Romance. Heat. Thrills. Chills. This has a lot of everything.
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