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A Domestic Noir Thriller Serial #1
Related By Blood
Can one mistake destroy your life?
It did for Cleo.
On a chilly fall day outside Seattle, Cleo hopes that her undefined relationship with Harris, the son of a U.S. Senator, will finally become official.
But their plans are interrupted by a shocking accident.
When Harris covers up the evidence of their crime with the help of his politically powerful father, Cleo is entrapped into secrecy. She ultimately loses the thing she loves most.
Fifteen years later, Cleo still hasn’t recovered from that devastating day. Obsessed with getting back the life she lost, she makes an impulsive decision that changes everything. But when things don’t go the way she hopes, suspicion and jealousy drive her to increasingly erratic behavior.
How far is she willing to go?
Soon everyone she knows is entangled in a web of lies and deceit.
Can anyone escape unscathed, or are some things just inevitable?
You'll love this gripping psychological thriller, with an unforgettable ending and characters that get under your skin.
Get Related By Blood now.
Perfect for fans of Freida McFadden, Lisa Jewell, B.A. Paris, and others.
It did for Cleo.
On a chilly fall day outside Seattle, Cleo hopes that her undefined relationship with Harris, the son of a U.S. Senator, will finally become official.
But their plans are interrupted by a shocking accident.
When Harris covers up the evidence of their crime with the help of his politically powerful father, Cleo is entrapped into secrecy. She ultimately loses the thing she loves most.
Fifteen years later, Cleo still hasn’t recovered from that devastating day. Obsessed with getting back the life she lost, she makes an impulsive decision that changes everything. But when things don’t go the way she hopes, suspicion and jealousy drive her to increasingly erratic behavior.
How far is she willing to go?
Soon everyone she knows is entangled in a web of lies and deceit.
Can anyone escape unscathed, or are some things just inevitable?
You'll love this gripping psychological thriller, with an unforgettable ending and characters that get under your skin.
Get Related By Blood now.
Perfect for fans of Freida McFadden, Lisa Jewell, B.A. Paris, and others.
338 pages, Paperback
Published March 21, 2024
42 people are currently reading
282 people want to read
About the author
Holly Sheidenberger
3 books22 followersHolly Sheidenberger is a former theatre actress. Her experience in creating roles for the stage inspires her to write juicy characters that you love to hate.
She has lived in misty Seattle, sunny Los Angeles, and now makes her home in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona.
Holly is the wife of Hollywood composer and orchestrator Todd Sheidenberger and the mother of their four daughters.
Connect with her on Instagram @hollysheidenberger and Facebook @hollysheidenberger.
She has lived in misty Seattle, sunny Los Angeles, and now makes her home in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona.
Holly is the wife of Hollywood composer and orchestrator Todd Sheidenberger and the mother of their four daughters.
Connect with her on Instagram @hollysheidenberger and Facebook @hollysheidenberger.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
May 8, 2024
In Seattle, Washington, Harris Cox is running for election in 2018 to be a U.S. Congressman, and his father, U.S. Senator William Cox, has been orchestrating his son's life to lead to this time. The win of this election. The win of the beginning of his son’s political career. Fifteen years ago, the Senator's dream for his son was almost crushed, but thankfully, at the most crucial moment, his son was wise to call him first. Harris has followed each step of his father's guidance, even the steps that infringed on his personal happiness with Cleo. The race is close, and every step must follow the plan, with the election only a month away. The plan to win!
The intrigue for me began as soon as the title captured my attention and the delight of introduction to an author that I had not previously read. Opening the book, I was delighted by the Table of Contents showing that a Prologue would introduce Harris and Cleo 15 years ago and then continue in succession from a month to different weeks to different days leading up to the election as I love that format and it was also clear a 3rd POV of a woman named Thalia would add another dimension before the election.
Power. Intellect. High Stakes. Calculating Risks. This is not a poker game; this is life, but for some, life is a game of winning, having it my way. Who will succeed? There are twists and turns, junctions, and detours, and choices are made at each twist, turn, junction, and detour. Right or wrong? I loved the suspense, the unexpected, and the choices I wouldn't even think of, and together, they made for a page-turning thrill ride from cover to cover.
It's a powerhouse of a stand-alone, but I'm excited by the possibilities that will come as this novel begins a new series.
Thank you to Holly Sheidenberger and Voracious Readers Only for a digital eARC of this novel.
The intrigue for me began as soon as the title captured my attention and the delight of introduction to an author that I had not previously read. Opening the book, I was delighted by the Table of Contents showing that a Prologue would introduce Harris and Cleo 15 years ago and then continue in succession from a month to different weeks to different days leading up to the election as I love that format and it was also clear a 3rd POV of a woman named Thalia would add another dimension before the election.
Power. Intellect. High Stakes. Calculating Risks. This is not a poker game; this is life, but for some, life is a game of winning, having it my way. Who will succeed? There are twists and turns, junctions, and detours, and choices are made at each twist, turn, junction, and detour. Right or wrong? I loved the suspense, the unexpected, and the choices I wouldn't even think of, and together, they made for a page-turning thrill ride from cover to cover.
It's a powerhouse of a stand-alone, but I'm excited by the possibilities that will come as this novel begins a new series.
Thank you to Holly Sheidenberger and Voracious Readers Only for a digital eARC of this novel.
May 11, 2024
I liked this story, up until I didn’t like this story….which was around the 90% completion mark. There was so much drama and I just kept waiting for something, anything to pop off and give me that “ah ha” twist, but it never happened. This is part one in a series, so I still have very high hopes for that WTF moment.
This was a quick read, it definitely grabs you in and keeps you wondering. I’m looking forward to part two.
This was a quick read, it definitely grabs you in and keeps you wondering. I’m looking forward to part two.
April 14, 2024
A young couple’s lives each take a different direction than either of them planned after a tragic accident. A psychological thriller that is engaging from the start.
Yikes! Cleo is intense. She truly believes one “mistake” shouldn’t wreck her plans and she’s waited 15 long years to be with Harris. To be fair, Harris is a sociopathic manipulator himself. I enjoy fictional stories where I can just sit back and enjoy reading about the awful things people do to one another and be grateful that it’s not a true story!
There are lots of twists and turns throughout the story with fun unlikeable characters. You need to suspend your disbelief, but I’m fine with that when it’s an entertaining read. If you enjoy this one, there is a prequel coming out soon!
3.5/5 rounded up.
Yikes! Cleo is intense. She truly believes one “mistake” shouldn’t wreck her plans and she’s waited 15 long years to be with Harris. To be fair, Harris is a sociopathic manipulator himself. I enjoy fictional stories where I can just sit back and enjoy reading about the awful things people do to one another and be grateful that it’s not a true story!
There are lots of twists and turns throughout the story with fun unlikeable characters. You need to suspend your disbelief, but I’m fine with that when it’s an entertaining read. If you enjoy this one, there is a prequel coming out soon!
3.5/5 rounded up.
May 1, 2019
Thank you to Holly Sheidenberger for a chance to read these 3 books.
It’s a shame that these books are so short as I was enjoying them so much but the abrupt ending to them spoilt it for me.
They would be great if they were longer.
It’s a shame that these books are so short as I was enjoying them so much but the abrupt ending to them spoilt it for me.
They would be great if they were longer.
May 21, 2024
Her first short story was great, but I needed more 😉
This book is definitely not short.
It's a gripping, suspense-packed and exciting psychological thriller and, of course, much much more.
One thing is certain.
The author knows how to keep readers in check and not let them off the hook.
I was surprised how fast I read this book. I'm not a fast reader.
I'm more from the category of people who enjoy reading slowly and relaxing, but listening to audiobooks much too fast.
This book starts strong and tragic and continues like that the whole time.
A happy couple, the beginning of a fantastic career, an amazing life, and one mistake take it all away.
This book shows how lies, secrets and character weaknesses can make life to a nightmare.
To say I hate politicians is not a strong word enough, but after this story, I do it so much more.
It's once again evidence that all politicians are crazy criminals 😂
I can't explain it, without spoilers,
but this book is a proof, that I can enjoy a book and still hate the characters.
I've to say, these were the most unlovable characters I've ever read about.
All of them.
I mean the side characters, too 😂
They were all intentionally portrayed as complete liars and lunatics.
It was great to have more interest in the story and not the characters for ones.
I enjoyed this crazy story.
This book is definitely not short.
It's a gripping, suspense-packed and exciting psychological thriller and, of course, much much more.
One thing is certain.
The author knows how to keep readers in check and not let them off the hook.
I was surprised how fast I read this book. I'm not a fast reader.
I'm more from the category of people who enjoy reading slowly and relaxing, but listening to audiobooks much too fast.
This book starts strong and tragic and continues like that the whole time.
A happy couple, the beginning of a fantastic career, an amazing life, and one mistake take it all away.
This book shows how lies, secrets and character weaknesses can make life to a nightmare.
To say I hate politicians is not a strong word enough, but after this story, I do it so much more.
It's once again evidence that all politicians are crazy criminals 😂
I can't explain it, without spoilers,
but this book is a proof, that I can enjoy a book and still hate the characters.
I've to say, these were the most unlovable characters I've ever read about.
All of them.
I mean the side characters, too 😂
They were all intentionally portrayed as complete liars and lunatics.
It was great to have more interest in the story and not the characters for ones.
I enjoyed this crazy story.
May 4, 2024
“Some stains don’t wash out.”
As we count down to election day wannabe congressman and Senator’s son Harris Cox’s privileged life is unraveling….
This fast paced psychological thriller is packed full of everything I love - unreliable narrators, multiple POV, dysfunctional families, tragedy, politics, obsession and dark secrets.
Engaging, intense, dramatic and addictive - a real page turner!
Twisty and twisted. I loved it!
As we count down to election day wannabe congressman and Senator’s son Harris Cox’s privileged life is unraveling….
This fast paced psychological thriller is packed full of everything I love - unreliable narrators, multiple POV, dysfunctional families, tragedy, politics, obsession and dark secrets.
Engaging, intense, dramatic and addictive - a real page turner!
Twisty and twisted. I loved it!
May 3, 2024
It sets up with a crime that's covered up and never really goes away, even 15 years later. With a political backdrop—but not left or right; ideally balanced—that raises the stakes of keeping the crime hidden, the tension is strong throughout. Short chapters and consistent action keep the pages turning. I kept waiting for a big twist that didn't come, but it's otherwise a solid psychological thriller.
April 25, 2024
Review:
Related by Blood by Holly Sheidenberger.
The story starts out with two young people obsessed with each other. Upon taking a drive in the countryside a fatal tragedy occurs. A tragedy that is ultimately covered up by Harris’ father, a high ranking politician. As the story progresses the obsession continues despite a fifteen year separation. As Harris attempting a political career, following in his powerful father’s footsteps, Cleo decides to pursue him with fanatical vigour.
Related by Blood is a story about power, corruption, obsession, intimidation, cowardice, revenge and narcissism. If you like a good psychological thriller then I would recommend this book. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Related by Blood by Holly Sheidenberger.
The story starts out with two young people obsessed with each other. Upon taking a drive in the countryside a fatal tragedy occurs. A tragedy that is ultimately covered up by Harris’ father, a high ranking politician. As the story progresses the obsession continues despite a fifteen year separation. As Harris attempting a political career, following in his powerful father’s footsteps, Cleo decides to pursue him with fanatical vigour.
Related by Blood is a story about power, corruption, obsession, intimidation, cowardice, revenge and narcissism. If you like a good psychological thriller then I would recommend this book. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 26, 2024
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author Holly Sheidenberger via Voracious Readers, this is my review.
I don't like to give summaries of books because I don't want to spoil the surprise. I will say while reading I continued think " damn they all need to see a professional therapist " It's a thrilling page turner with so many moments I was not expecting. The ending was great as well. If you get a chance I recommend reading, I will definitely read Altered Will, the prequel to Related by Blood, about Senator William Cox and his entry into crime world.
I don't like to give summaries of books because I don't want to spoil the surprise. I will say while reading I continued think " damn they all need to see a professional therapist " It's a thrilling page turner with so many moments I was not expecting. The ending was great as well. If you get a chance I recommend reading, I will definitely read Altered Will, the prequel to Related by Blood, about Senator William Cox and his entry into crime world.
October 20, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Mahonia Publishing for providing this book, with my honest review below.
Related By Blood was an unexpected and excellent thriller that really took advantage of the concept of dysfunctional families.
Cleo grew up taking care of her sister, Thalia, and from the wrong side of the tracks but falls in love (and deep obsession) with Harris, a senator’s son who grew up in every way the opposite of Cleo. Despite this he is as in love (and obsessed) with her as she is him. Fifteen years before he was willing to ignore his instincts of the type of wife he’d need to follow on his father’s footsteps and propose to her, but before it could come to pass something tragic happened. Now in the windup to his own election Harris and Cleo are reunited - but with age comes complications and so it follows for them, bringing in Thalia and Harris’s Senator father, William, into the mix.
There is no carrier to root for here as being ‘right’ but that makes this one so much fun. Everyone is flawed and a bit disgusting but as they lash out at each other or believe they’re acting to do the right thing for themselves, only to cause hurt and pain, this thriller unfolds into a bit of a rollercoaster ride that is wholly engrossing.
I’d recommend this for lovers of dark thrillers who like a lot of intrigue and suspense, it didn’t let up!
Related By Blood was an unexpected and excellent thriller that really took advantage of the concept of dysfunctional families.
Cleo grew up taking care of her sister, Thalia, and from the wrong side of the tracks but falls in love (and deep obsession) with Harris, a senator’s son who grew up in every way the opposite of Cleo. Despite this he is as in love (and obsessed) with her as she is him. Fifteen years before he was willing to ignore his instincts of the type of wife he’d need to follow on his father’s footsteps and propose to her, but before it could come to pass something tragic happened. Now in the windup to his own election Harris and Cleo are reunited - but with age comes complications and so it follows for them, bringing in Thalia and Harris’s Senator father, William, into the mix.
There is no carrier to root for here as being ‘right’ but that makes this one so much fun. Everyone is flawed and a bit disgusting but as they lash out at each other or believe they’re acting to do the right thing for themselves, only to cause hurt and pain, this thriller unfolds into a bit of a rollercoaster ride that is wholly engrossing.
I’d recommend this for lovers of dark thrillers who like a lot of intrigue and suspense, it didn’t let up!
April 9, 2024
This book was fantastic! I loved that Holly put the characters name with the chapter number, to help with the POV you are reading from. My all time biggest issue with some others. I love the “oh shit” plot twist moment, especially with Cleo seemingly to be slightly unhinged at times.
I would like to thank Holly and Voracious Readers for allowing me to be part of the ARC team.
I would like to thank Holly and Voracious Readers for allowing me to be part of the ARC team.
November 14, 2018
A very quick read. Offered up by Voracious Readers Only. I wish book 2 had come with book 1 so I could see where the story goes. I’d like to see where his political dreams go and whether the often absent stutter becomes a real issue in his political life. Does he explain why he up and left her in the cold? And what happens with the poor girl who was mowed down during the hit and run?
September 30, 2018
Should be renamed playing with fire! Oh Tahlia what are you up to?!
January 14, 2019
This unexpected descent into madness left me wanting more.
Thank you voracious readers for introducing me to Holly Sheidenberger and this serial.
Thank you voracious readers for introducing me to Holly Sheidenberger and this serial.
May 19, 2024
Harris is following in his father's footsteps and is on the brink of a political career as a US Congressman. The election is nearing and his poll numbers are looking good. He has lived out a careful life, knowing that everything is scrutinized and his father has taught him well. But when the one love from his past comes back into his life, it could upend everything he and his father has worked for. Cleo has only had one true love in her life and with the election coming up, she sees his face everywhere. She could never forget Harris and maybe this is the time to enter his life once again. No matter it has been more than a decade, she knows Harris is the only one for her. Knowing she holds the secret to get Harris back into her life again, Cleo starts putting herself front and center for him and when she starts to get conflicting signals from him, she decides it is all or nothing, she must have him in her life. Questionable decisions are made, and everything is on the line for Harris to get elected. Will Cleo come through for him and prove his father wrong or will his political career end before it has gotten started? This was a fast read from the first page to the last. Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the complementary ebook. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
September 24, 2024
Ummm....ok. Well, all of these characters are delusional. None of them are even close to be likeable. Cleo is intense, but for all the wrong reasons. Harris 🙄. That's all I have to say about him. Thalia..again 🙄. I honestly don't know which character I disliked more. They just made me so mad. Several places I had to stop reading just so I could heavy eyeroll. Why did I continue? I thought the ending would be worth it. Was it? No. The storyline was meh. It's a predictable popcorn thriller. I think this is my first political one, and I'm most certain it will be my last. I'm honestly not even convinced this is a thriller. More like a romance with a splash of insane characters. Some of this book just flat out doesn't make sense. I won't be reading the second book.
May 16, 2024
First things first - I need a book safe.
Second - Holly Sheidenberger is a name to keep in mind.
Her debut full-length novel has made quite the impression. Last year, I read her novelette, The Kinsman, and thoroughly enjoyed. And even moreso now with her book, Related By Blood.
The story is told in multiple POVs, starting with Cleo Tate and Harris Cox 15 years earlier. A tragic road accident leads to a coverup and their breakup.
But Harris running for Congress brings Cleo back into his life, and what follows is a twisty tale of cat and mouse, obsession, and lies.
It's difficult at times to know who is worse, and there are characters we can love to hate.
The ending teases readers with a prequel yet to come, and I personally can't wait!
Recommended!
For release on May 30.
Second - Holly Sheidenberger is a name to keep in mind.
Her debut full-length novel has made quite the impression. Last year, I read her novelette, The Kinsman, and thoroughly enjoyed. And even moreso now with her book, Related By Blood.
The story is told in multiple POVs, starting with Cleo Tate and Harris Cox 15 years earlier. A tragic road accident leads to a coverup and their breakup.
But Harris running for Congress brings Cleo back into his life, and what follows is a twisty tale of cat and mouse, obsession, and lies.
It's difficult at times to know who is worse, and there are characters we can love to hate.
The ending teases readers with a prequel yet to come, and I personally can't wait!
Recommended!
For release on May 30.
May 6, 2024
Related by Blood by Holly Sheidenberger
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5)
Genre: Thriller
About 305 pages
Fifteen years ago, Cleo and Harris were tied together forever by a horrific accident. The two evaded consequences thanks to Harris’s senator father. Fifteen years later, Cleo remains hung up on Harris. Her obsession only grows when she sees him on TV running for congressman. Cleo wants her man back, and she will do anything to get him.
Starting positively, this book got me invested from the first chapter and I genuinely could not put it down. The writing was engaging leading me to finish it in less than 24 hours. I feel like I don’t see/read political and legal thrillers enough, so I always love picking them up. However, I struggled with Cleo’s character and her motivations. After 15 years of not seeing and/or interacting with Harris, I couldn’t understand why she would go to the extremes she did to try and be with Harris. I also figured out some of the big twists pretty far in advance, so the big reveals lacked some of the oomph for me. Regardless, I loved The Kinsman by this author and her debut novel made me intrigued to see what the future holds for her!
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5)
Genre: Thriller
About 305 pages
Fifteen years ago, Cleo and Harris were tied together forever by a horrific accident. The two evaded consequences thanks to Harris’s senator father. Fifteen years later, Cleo remains hung up on Harris. Her obsession only grows when she sees him on TV running for congressman. Cleo wants her man back, and she will do anything to get him.
Starting positively, this book got me invested from the first chapter and I genuinely could not put it down. The writing was engaging leading me to finish it in less than 24 hours. I feel like I don’t see/read political and legal thrillers enough, so I always love picking them up. However, I struggled with Cleo’s character and her motivations. After 15 years of not seeing and/or interacting with Harris, I couldn’t understand why she would go to the extremes she did to try and be with Harris. I also figured out some of the big twists pretty far in advance, so the big reveals lacked some of the oomph for me. Regardless, I loved The Kinsman by this author and her debut novel made me intrigued to see what the future holds for her!
May 30, 2024
This one drew me in right away. It starts with an extremely traumatic and stressful scene! And it developed from there. I quickly learned that none of the three main characters with POVs were very likable. They were all unreliable in their narration and erratic in their actions. I was engrossed watching them as they slowly spiraled more and more out of control. The political campaign of one of the main characters provided lots of drama and intrigue as well. My only quibble with the book and what knocked it from 4 to 3 stars was the ending. It was, and I can’t believe I’m saying this, too happy. I love a happy ending, but I didn’t feel like any character deserved one after all they did! But overall I loved the writing and the story was intriguing!
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for my review copy.
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for my review copy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2024
This is the first book I have read by Holly Sheidenberger, and I received this book via Amazon Kindle as an ARC for a honest review.
At the end of this book, there is a blurb relating to a prequel which will be out soon titled 'Altered Will'. There are no spoilers in this review.
This book is a crime, a thriller with a dash of romance thrown in which is a popular genre of books at the moment, however this book had an edge that others with similar storylines have lacked in, and kept me turning the pages.
A true battle between family, love and past secrets.
Cleo and Harris have the perfect, match- made-in-heaven style romance that both of them have always dreamt about having. They both have such high hopes for their relationship, until a tradegy strikes one day which changes the course of both their lives forever.
Harris at the time was set on becoming a lawyer, and following in his father's footsteps to become a senator as he progresses up the legal ladder.
However Cleo and Harris one beautiful day went for a romantic drive to the lake together, but before it even started unfortunately it ended in tradegy.
Whilst driving on the open road, with a split second lapse of judgement they were involved in a fatal car accident. Due to this, because Harris was driving at the time, it would be a trial for a potential murder charge. But for Harris, his father will not let his son pay for this mistake so early in his political career, so but Cleo? That's up for debate. Its not what you know sometimes, it's what you can pay for.
The story then follows the twists and turns of different relationships within the story with far too many secrets and blackmail, and introducing other important characters to the story to add to the deciept and drama.
The authors writing style of the book focuses around the three main characters Harris, Cleo and Talia, and each 'chapter' is headed by one of the three characters back and forth and is their own particular voice and their perception of the story. I personally like this style of writing as it builds the scene from different viewpoints making up the bigger picture.
All characters are generally likeable, except for Harris' father who I think is there just to have someone to direct all hate/anger at. Cleo I felt was quite an erratic character throughout the book, and I did flick between liking and disliking her, and my opinion of her by the end of the story still has a bit of a question mark over her.
The character development was generally believable and well paced, but when one of the plot twists occur, I can see why this was done to bulk the emotions up with all of the characters but also I personally felt this was a slightly unrealistic storyline based on the traits of those involved.
This story gripped me from the first few chapters, and I was invested in building up the knowledge of all of the characters (including the non - main characters) and where the story was taking the reader. The chapters were also generally short, so I was able to either read a few chapters when I had ten minutes, and also able to have longer sessions if I had time, which helped with keeping interested in the story.
The book generally built up at a steady pace, and everything was explained as the pages went on, and I didn't get lost at any point and need to re-read, or that I felt anything vital was missing. However the last part of the story felt rushed and the ending was condensed into only a few pages in comparison to the rest of the book, which was a bit of a shame because feel the characters needed a bit more closure than was portrayed.
In summary, I felt this book had a good plot, which was well executed, well written and presented. The author worked hard to build an interesting storyline and I would definitely recommend this book to others and would read other books written by her
At the end of this book, there is a blurb relating to a prequel which will be out soon titled 'Altered Will'. There are no spoilers in this review.
This book is a crime, a thriller with a dash of romance thrown in which is a popular genre of books at the moment, however this book had an edge that others with similar storylines have lacked in, and kept me turning the pages.
A true battle between family, love and past secrets.
Cleo and Harris have the perfect, match- made-in-heaven style romance that both of them have always dreamt about having. They both have such high hopes for their relationship, until a tradegy strikes one day which changes the course of both their lives forever.
Harris at the time was set on becoming a lawyer, and following in his father's footsteps to become a senator as he progresses up the legal ladder.
However Cleo and Harris one beautiful day went for a romantic drive to the lake together, but before it even started unfortunately it ended in tradegy.
Whilst driving on the open road, with a split second lapse of judgement they were involved in a fatal car accident. Due to this, because Harris was driving at the time, it would be a trial for a potential murder charge. But for Harris, his father will not let his son pay for this mistake so early in his political career, so but Cleo? That's up for debate. Its not what you know sometimes, it's what you can pay for.
The story then follows the twists and turns of different relationships within the story with far too many secrets and blackmail, and introducing other important characters to the story to add to the deciept and drama.
The authors writing style of the book focuses around the three main characters Harris, Cleo and Talia, and each 'chapter' is headed by one of the three characters back and forth and is their own particular voice and their perception of the story. I personally like this style of writing as it builds the scene from different viewpoints making up the bigger picture.
All characters are generally likeable, except for Harris' father who I think is there just to have someone to direct all hate/anger at. Cleo I felt was quite an erratic character throughout the book, and I did flick between liking and disliking her, and my opinion of her by the end of the story still has a bit of a question mark over her.
The character development was generally believable and well paced, but when one of the plot twists occur, I can see why this was done to bulk the emotions up with all of the characters but also I personally felt this was a slightly unrealistic storyline based on the traits of those involved.
This story gripped me from the first few chapters, and I was invested in building up the knowledge of all of the characters (including the non - main characters) and where the story was taking the reader. The chapters were also generally short, so I was able to either read a few chapters when I had ten minutes, and also able to have longer sessions if I had time, which helped with keeping interested in the story.
The book generally built up at a steady pace, and everything was explained as the pages went on, and I didn't get lost at any point and need to re-read, or that I felt anything vital was missing. However the last part of the story felt rushed and the ending was condensed into only a few pages in comparison to the rest of the book, which was a bit of a shame because feel the characters needed a bit more closure than was portrayed.
In summary, I felt this book had a good plot, which was well executed, well written and presented. The author worked hard to build an interesting storyline and I would definitely recommend this book to others and would read other books written by her
April 20, 2024
First I’d like to thank Holly Sheidenberger for an ARC copy of this book. I’d also like to state that this is my honest review of the book. I was so excited to read this novel, I enjoyed her novelette The Kinsman so much. The book starts “Some stains don’t wash out” and from then on I was hooked. Cleo is a force to be reckoned with and I was glued to the story. From unreliable narrators, to dark secrets, to crimes being covered up. This novel has it all. The pacing I felt was perfect, not too slow but also not too fast. I didn’t feel lost at all even with so many things seeming to happen at one. The twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. I was so drawn to Cleo and I don’t know why. The characters were all very interesting and I liked having the multiple points of view. I really liked seeing the character development, it was done so well, some developed into the worst versions of themselves. I’m so used to seeing characters develop into better versions or have growth in a good way, but in this novel there’s one character in particular that develops into such a twisted person, it’s just like life: people don’t walkways change for the better. The way each person in the book seems to have their own “reality” adds to the thriller feel of the novel, each character seems to interpret events differently and no one is safe. I can’t recommend this novel enough to those who like psychological thrillers and those who like novels with unreliable narratives.
April 23, 2024
On a chill day in Seattle, Cleo and Harris plan to finally make their undefined relationship official. That is until their plans are interrupted a tragic accident. When Harris is assisted with covering up the crime by his politically powerful father and team, Cleo is sworn to secrecy. She also doesn’t know this will be the end to a connection she loves the most. After fifteen years have passed and she’s still affected by that day, Cleo decided to take back the life she lost….. at any cost.
•••••
This book built up at a steady pace and jumps between the POV’s of Cleo, Harris and Thalia. I believe that was perfect for the way the drama and thrill packs on as the story goes. Once all the dust settled, I wanted more at the end. I felt it was rushed within a few pages leaving us on a cliff hanger. I was excited to see that book 2 will be coming soon, so I can find solace in that. I was provided with a copy of this book through book funnel by the author for an unbiased review. If you’re a fan of Frieda McFadden, this is the perfect read for you.
•••••
This book built up at a steady pace and jumps between the POV’s of Cleo, Harris and Thalia. I believe that was perfect for the way the drama and thrill packs on as the story goes. Once all the dust settled, I wanted more at the end. I felt it was rushed within a few pages leaving us on a cliff hanger. I was excited to see that book 2 will be coming soon, so I can find solace in that. I was provided with a copy of this book through book funnel by the author for an unbiased review. If you’re a fan of Frieda McFadden, this is the perfect read for you.
April 24, 2024
Related By Blood by @hollysheidenberger . Hold on to your comfy reading chairs, this upcoming release by Holly Scheidenberger is quite the page turner. I was grateful to be asked to be an advance reader for this book. Cleo and Harris have an intense but undefined relationship, and on the day he was going to make things more defined, disaster struck. A horrific accident interrupts the special day and his father, Senator Cox, knows just what to do to “fix” the situation. This tears Cleo and Harris apart. Fast forward 15 years later, Harris is running for office and Cleo comes back into the picture. The ghosts of the past looming just under the surface make their present become and explosive affair.
April 21, 2024
One tragic accident changes the future for Cleo and Harris. Their lives are no longer set on a track together. But after 15 years apart, they find each other again. Cleo becomes a crazy stalker, that typical “if I can’t have him nobody else can” crazy girl. She does everything she can to keep others away from Harris while trying to get back together with him. Harris wants Cleo, but he knows they aren’t good for each other, and she would be bad for his political career. One twist and turn after another, the story unfolds as you see the lengths people will go through for love. The ending brought some great closure to this story, but also opened up for a sequel for the craziness to follow. Cleo is one that will stop at nothing to get what she wants!
April 15, 2024
Wowsers, this was a proper psychological thriller that kept me engaged from the beginning. So much so that I read it in one sitting.
Cleo = bunny boiler, haha. I'm not kidding she is one intense character. Her and Harris are meant to be together, and she stops at nothing to ensure they will be. Delusional came to mind a few times, lol! What makes it worse is Harris is still in love with her 15 years later.. as crazy as each other if you ask me. Despite their flaws, the characters are mostly likeable, maybe not so much with Harris' father mind who won't stop at nothing to protect his son and career.
The story has many twists and turns throughout, so it definitely keeps you intrigued. Told in multiple POV'S we get a better insight into the characters and their viewpoints.
Overall, it's a pretty good thriller. It's steady in pace and a decent plotline. Well written and engaging. I'd recommend this book to others for sure.
Thank you to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book as an ARC via Netgalley.
Cleo = bunny boiler, haha. I'm not kidding she is one intense character. Her and Harris are meant to be together, and she stops at nothing to ensure they will be. Delusional came to mind a few times, lol! What makes it worse is Harris is still in love with her 15 years later.. as crazy as each other if you ask me. Despite their flaws, the characters are mostly likeable, maybe not so much with Harris' father mind who won't stop at nothing to protect his son and career.
The story has many twists and turns throughout, so it definitely keeps you intrigued. Told in multiple POV'S we get a better insight into the characters and their viewpoints.
Overall, it's a pretty good thriller. It's steady in pace and a decent plotline. Well written and engaging. I'd recommend this book to others for sure.
Thank you to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book as an ARC via Netgalley.
April 13, 2024
Thank you to Holly for a copy of this book via Vivacious Readers Only, in return for an honest review.
The first chapter instantly gripped me, it felt so intense and I couldn't wait to read the next chapter, and then the next. I couldn't put it down.
The characters are thrilling and disturbing, very thought out. I find with some books, characters can be thrown in to fill a space but have no purpose, that wasn't the case here, every character had a purpose and was well thought out.
The plot doesn't seem to get weak anywhere, it just got thicker and thicker. I didn't find myself getting bored at any point, which takes an incredible talent.
I really liked the short chapters too, it made it an even easier read (when I have a toddler needing my attention).
The first chapter instantly gripped me, it felt so intense and I couldn't wait to read the next chapter, and then the next. I couldn't put it down.
The characters are thrilling and disturbing, very thought out. I find with some books, characters can be thrown in to fill a space but have no purpose, that wasn't the case here, every character had a purpose and was well thought out.
The plot doesn't seem to get weak anywhere, it just got thicker and thicker. I didn't find myself getting bored at any point, which takes an incredible talent.
I really liked the short chapters too, it made it an even easier read (when I have a toddler needing my attention).
May 30, 2024
My Rating: 3.5
Cleo hopes that her undefined relationship with Harris, the son of a U.S. Senator, will finally become official. But their plans are interrupted by a shocking accident. When Harris covers up the crime with the help of his powerful father, Cleo is entrapped into secrecy and loses Harris. Fifteen years later, Cleo is obsessed with getting back the life she lost; she makes an impulsive decision that changes everything. But when things don’t go as she hopes, suspicion and jealousy drive her to increasingly erratic behavior. How far is she willing to go?
RELATED BY BLOOD is a multifaceted thriller about obsession, revenge, and the consequences of going against political figures. Let me start by saying I loathed every character; only Amber, a background filler, gained my affection. Holly sure knows how to develop realistic personalities that get under your skin. Cleo was obsessive and manipulative, while Harris lacked a backbone and depended on Daddy to clean up his messes. I didn’t understand why Cleo was fascinated with this weak man. And don’t get me started on the tragic accident that initially caused them to break up. The lack of humanity sickened me!
Fast forward to unraveling events; Holly weaved each reveal nicely, even if I saw them coming a mile away. Even though this is labeled a thriller, I would consider this more of a family drama instead. The toxicity behind every character was masterfully developed, and I got the gist of everyone’s agenda. While I enjoyed the narrative, I thought the finale ended a little too finely for my taste. I’m impressed with Holly’s first novel and look forward to her next story!
Cleo hopes that her undefined relationship with Harris, the son of a U.S. Senator, will finally become official. But their plans are interrupted by a shocking accident. When Harris covers up the crime with the help of his powerful father, Cleo is entrapped into secrecy and loses Harris. Fifteen years later, Cleo is obsessed with getting back the life she lost; she makes an impulsive decision that changes everything. But when things don’t go as she hopes, suspicion and jealousy drive her to increasingly erratic behavior. How far is she willing to go?
RELATED BY BLOOD is a multifaceted thriller about obsession, revenge, and the consequences of going against political figures. Let me start by saying I loathed every character; only Amber, a background filler, gained my affection. Holly sure knows how to develop realistic personalities that get under your skin. Cleo was obsessive and manipulative, while Harris lacked a backbone and depended on Daddy to clean up his messes. I didn’t understand why Cleo was fascinated with this weak man. And don’t get me started on the tragic accident that initially caused them to break up. The lack of humanity sickened me!
Fast forward to unraveling events; Holly weaved each reveal nicely, even if I saw them coming a mile away. Even though this is labeled a thriller, I would consider this more of a family drama instead. The toxicity behind every character was masterfully developed, and I got the gist of everyone’s agenda. While I enjoyed the narrative, I thought the finale ended a little too finely for my taste. I’m impressed with Holly’s first novel and look forward to her next story!
June 3, 2024
I received a copy of this book from Voracious Readers Only in exchange for my honest review.
So this was an absolutely wild ride from start to finish. Cleo and Harris are a match that could only be made in the nightmares of toxic relationships
I absolutely hated just about every character in this book and still couldn't put it down. It's like they're all in a contest with each other, competing to see who can be the absolute worst.
If you're looking for something that will keep you on your toes, this one might be for you.
Cleo is straight up a stage five clinger and I lost count of how many times I literally said "Oh my god" out loud while reading this. Every time I thought she couldn't possibly top her own crazy, she did. She gets shit done, but in the most unhinged ways possible.
Harris is a mess in a Congress dress. He is in desperate need of a therapist, a new dad and probably a nap. Thalia is a simple farm girl without the farm who takes a pair of silly scissors to her whole life and you will never be able to convince me that Senator Cox is not just the actual devil.
As this is the beginning of the series, I'm intensely curious to see where this will go from here after the way it ends. You can't tell me that chaos isn't about to roll out the red carpet.
So this was an absolutely wild ride from start to finish. Cleo and Harris are a match that could only be made in the nightmares of toxic relationships
I absolutely hated just about every character in this book and still couldn't put it down. It's like they're all in a contest with each other, competing to see who can be the absolute worst.
If you're looking for something that will keep you on your toes, this one might be for you.
Cleo is straight up a stage five clinger and I lost count of how many times I literally said "Oh my god" out loud while reading this. Every time I thought she couldn't possibly top her own crazy, she did. She gets shit done, but in the most unhinged ways possible.
Harris is a mess in a Congress dress. He is in desperate need of a therapist, a new dad and probably a nap. Thalia is a simple farm girl without the farm who takes a pair of silly scissors to her whole life and you will never be able to convince me that Senator Cox is not just the actual devil.
As this is the beginning of the series, I'm intensely curious to see where this will go from here after the way it ends. You can't tell me that chaos isn't about to roll out the red carpet.
May 15, 2024
What a great fast paced, physiological thriller, I was addicted from the outset.
The multiple POVs are great. Cleo is a very intense character, her obsession with Harris is frightening! Harris is a toxic, controlling character. I found myself becoming irritated and anxious at the characters and their behaviours and personalities as this book progressed however I couldn’t put it down.
Thank you to Holly for giving me the opportunity to review this book, I thoroughly enjoyed this read.
May 16, 2024
This is a multi-POV thriller that played mind tricks with my mind. I just couldn’t stop reading, because I just needed to find out what happened next. And I wanted more of it!!!
It’s a very fast and dark read with some unlikeable characters. I was pulled in since the beginning of the story with such traumatic event.
Thank you, Holly Sheidenberger for allowing me to be part of your team. I can’t wait to read more of your books!
It’s a very fast and dark read with some unlikeable characters. I was pulled in since the beginning of the story with such traumatic event.
Thank you, Holly Sheidenberger for allowing me to be part of your team. I can’t wait to read more of your books!
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