Hidden Truths: A Living Lore Novel

by Tammera Mart

Eighteen-year-old Ellie Mae Schmitt is certain her mom wasn’t killed by accident. Worse, her father is hiding the truth. When strange animal tracks appear on the outskirts of Hush Briar, Ellie delves into the mystery, convinced they have something to do with her mother’s death.

But Ellie isn’t the only one on the trail. With rumors of a highly coveted prize floating around, hunters are out in full force. Unsure who to trust, Ellie enlists the help of newcomer, Jake Harris. Together they hike the rugged terrain, unwind family drama, and navigate an unlikely attraction.

As danger ensues and they learn the creature isn’t the only one being hunted, Jake challenges Ellie’s motives. Can Ellie find the answers she needs before driving away those she cares about or winding up like her mother?

If you like outdoor adventure, budding romance, and folklore, then you’ll love this Frank Peretti meets Nicholas Sparks story.

344 pages, Paperback

First published October 15, 2023

About the author

Tammera Mart grew up a street rat in the small state-divided town of Union City, Ohio. By seven, she and her brother had memorized back alleys and the best places to find glass pop bottles. They spent summer days exploring on their bicycles, swimming at the pool (or corner puddles after a heavy rain), and hiding out in their fort next to the railroad tracks. As with most kids in the late 70s and early 80s, they narrowly survived childhood (wink).

At age ten, their mom remarried and moved their small family onto a farm, where life took a dark turn into a world of mental abuse and hard work. Enter writing and escaping into worlds where hurting teens overcome obstacles using faith, grit, and resilience.

Today, working as a licensed social worker, Mart writes for joy instead of escape. Daily encounters with incredible people help shape her stories and characters. Her first writing award and publication came in a local county magazine at age sixteen. Since then, she’s won several writing awards and published many true-to-life stories in various venues. At present, Tammera Mart writes from her small Midwestern home not far from where she ran barefoot in the streets as a child.

Reviews

[Cadence Chen · Rating 5 out of 5]

You've got Ellie, who's this super relatable gal with a mission that hits you right in the feels. Then there's Jake, who's basically the human version of a warm hug – total cinnamon roll vibes. Together, they dive into this mystery that's got more layers than my mom's lasagna. And the romance? It's like the cherry on top of an already awesome sundae. Plus, the whole Bigfoot mystery thing? Genius. Tammera Mart has this way of writing that's like she's right there, telling you the story over a cup of coffee. It's cozy, thrilling, and just a tad magical.

[SparksofEmber · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like this story. Enough that I've read it twice and am about to start on the audio book with my teenage daughter. Hidden Truths is a mystery with bits of thriller, fantasy, and a good dose of romance, that tackles real topics like family secrets that can divide if not addressed. Ellie is likeable, even with a bit of a temper, and it's fun to see her mature throughout the story. And Jake is 100% a cinnamon roll.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mart tells a compelling story about a young girl who struggles to understand the death of her mother and the lies that surround it. Ellie is caught off-guard when newcomer, Jake, comes to her small town and joins her hunt to uncover the mystery behind the rumors of Bigfoot—with romance soon blossoming.

Packed with deceit and deeply layered secrets that turn deadly, this book is perfect for a YA reader looking for an adventure romance. Mart's writing style is addicting, and her craft of storytelling will leave you wanting the next book in this series!

If you're a lover of cryptids, mysteries, and romance, don't miss this unique coming-of-age tale. Recommended for teen YA readers + older, due to some highly thrilling scenes that will keep you on the edge of your seat!

[Emily Maya · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a world filled with secrets and mystery, brace yourselves for an epic tale that will leave you on the edge of your seat! Mart's latest masterpiece takes us on a thrilling journey through the life of a young girl named Ellie, as she grapples with the enigma surrounding her mother's untimely demise. But when a stranger named Jake enters her quiet town and joins her quest to unearth the truth behind the legendary Bigfoot, sparks fly and romance blossoms amidst the chaos.

Get ready for a rollercoaster ride of deceit, secrets, and deadly revelations that will keep your heart racing from beginning to end. Mart's writing style is downright addicting, and her storytelling prowess will leave you yearning for the next installment in this gripping series!

For all you lovers of cryptids, mysteries, and a touch of romance, don't even think about missing out on this one-of-a-kind coming-of-age tale. Recommended for both teenage YA readers and those young at heart, as the story packs some seriously pulse-pounding moments that will have you hooked! So grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be spellbound by this blockbuster of a book!

[Catherine Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ellie journey is a thrilling rollercoaster of emotions and suspense. From the very beginning, the author pulls you into Ellie's world of mystery and intrigue. The combination of outdoor adventure, family drama, and budding romance creates a perfect blend that keeps you hooked till the very end. The characters are well-developed, and their relationships add depth to the story.

The folklore elements add an intriguing layer of mystique to the plot. I couldn't put the book down once I started reading, and the unexpected twists and turns left me craving for more. If you're a fan of Frank Peretti and Nicholas Sparks, this book is a must-read. It's a unique and captivating story that will keep you on the edge of your seat

[Cristina Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book! Tammera Mart really knows how to weave together a story with just the right mix of mythology, family dynamics, friendships, and romantic elements. While I was diving it was so easy to picture each scene in my mind, thanks to Mart's skillful descriptions. She strikes this perfect balance where you get enough detail to feel like you're right there in the moment, but not so much that you're itching to skip ahead. And, oh, the romance! When I find myself flipping pages faster to see what's next for the lovebirds, I know I'm hooked.

[MiIler Devis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've always been a sucker for stories that blend the mystical with the mundane, and Tammera Mart's latest offering does just that with a grace that's rare to find. 'Ellie's Journey' is a tapestry of emotions, intertwining Ellie's heartfelt quest with a budding romance that's as sweet as it is sincere. Mart's portrayal of the rugged outdoors as a backdrop to the unfolding mystery adds a layer of authenticity that's truly immersive. The inclusion of folklore elements provides a delightful twist to the narrative. Recommended!

[Kenna Pitts · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel masterfully blends elements of mystery, thriller, and fantasy, all while weaving in a romantic subplot that feels both genuine and compelling. It delves into profound themes, such as the impact of familial secrets and their potential to create rifts if left unaddressed. The protagonist, Ellie, is incredibly relatable and endearing, despite her occasional temper flare-ups, and it's quite rewarding to witness her personal growth throughout the narrative. Additionally, Jake is the epitome of a 'cinnamon roll' character—sweet and endearing, adding a delightful layer to the story.

[William Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off, Ellie is such a relatable protagonist - her determination, her struggles, it all just hit right in the feels. And the setting? It's like you're right there in the thick of the adventure, uncovering secrets and dodging danger. But let's talk about Jake for a sec - total heartthrob material, but with this sweet side that just melts your heart. The mix of a good old mystery with a sprinkle of romance

[George Fredricck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ellie's got this vibe that's just so relatable, especially when she gets all fiery. And then there's Jake – I mean, who doesn't love a character that's as sweet as a cinnamon roll? The mix of mystery and fantasy with a sprinkle of romance is just chef's kiss. Reading it felt like uncovering secrets in an old family attic – thrilling and a bit emotional.

[Willam Benjamith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tamera's has this awesome way of bringing her characters to life - felt like I knew them personally. The story's packed with a bit of everything - some mystery, a touch of romance, and heaps of family drama that just glues you to the pages. Couldn't believe it, but I ended up finishing the entire book on the day I picked it up!

[David Harvey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ellie's character development is crafted with such care; her flaws make her relatable, and her growth is genuinely inspiring. The narrative masterfully intertwines elements of mystery, fantasy, and romance, all while addressing profound themes like the skeletons in family closets. Jake's character adds a delightful balance, embodying kindness and support. Recommended!

[Brooks Pugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

The characters are just so real and relatable, you'll feel like they're your friends. The setting? Absolutely gorgeous. It's like you're right there. And the story? Man, it's a doozy – in the best way possible. Seriously, do yourself a favor and dive into this beautifully written gem. You won't regret it.

[Elizabeth Davalos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tammera Mart seriously knows how to spin a yarn that's part adventure, part supernatural, and all heart. Ellie's quest to uncover her mom's past had me hooked, and Jake is just 😍. Plus, Bigfoot? Count me in! Can't wait for the sequel – this book's a gem!

[Lang Quinn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The mix of Bigfoot mystery with a touch of romance is something I never knew I needed. Ellie's journey is so relatable, and Jake? Total heartthrob material. Mart's way with words is magical. Can't wait for the next one!

[Laura Kaur · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ellie's journey, with all its twists and secrets, had me hooked. And Jake, ah, he's just the icing on the cake! If you're into stories that keep you guessing and a romance that feels oh-so-real, give this one a go. You won't regret it!

[Wendy Heuvel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adventure, romance, suspense... this book has it all. The characters are compelling, the setting is beautiful, and the story is intriguing. Don't miss this exciting and well-written tale.